China builds new platform for Sino-African entrepreneurship Xinhua) 08:20, August 06, 2024 * China's Hunan has a new Sino-African landmark: the China-Africa Economic and Trade Headquarters Building, which is designed to host and support Chinese and African firms engaging in bilateral trade and investment. * It is the latest effort China has made to spur the private sector's cooperation with Africa. * With heavy participation of private companies, China-Africa cooperation has diversified from infrastructure, mining and agriculture to logistics, digital economy, clean energy, finance and others. CHANGSHA, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- For Taiwan-based China Communications Media Group, a crucial step in their venture into Africa starts a little closer to home, in Hunan, a central province on the Chinese mainland. Aspiring to expand its sales network of electric vehicles into Africa, the company will first set up a subsidiary inside the China-Africa Economic and Trade Headquarters Building in Hunan's provincial capital Changsha, leveraging the many preferential policies and constellation of Chinese and African companies at the site. "We've long wished to explore the African market, but our journey had been circuitous," said the company's chairman Liu Yao-yuan. "Now many like-minded companies gather here. I believe our exchanges and cooperation can lead to common prosperity." Opened on June 13, the building is the latest Sino-African landmark in Hunan, one of the most active Chinese provinces in economic ties with Africa and a trailblazer in China-Africa cooperation. Spanning over 100,000 square meters, the building is designed to host Chinese and African firms engaging in bilateral trade and investment, and provide them with subsidies and a range of services from policy consultation to financial support. Since its launch, more than 30 companies and associations in the fields of engineering, technology and research, telecommunication and others have settled in the building, whose trade with Africa is projected to reach 30 billion yuan (4.2 billion U.S. dollars) over the next three years. An inauguration ceremony for the China-Africa Economic and Trade Headquarters Building is held in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, June 13, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Zhenhai) The Mali Business Center, among the building's first occupants, was set up with an aim of serving Mali companies in China and helping Chinese firms make investment in the West African country. "We hope to become a home for the numerous Mali companies operating in China and help them explore the Chinese market," said the center's director Khalifa A. Sy Diop. Guangdong-based Africa-China Association for Cooperation, Development and Investment (ACACDI) also plans to register a company at the Changsha headquarters, which promises rent exemption, subsidies and other support. "Hunan is famous for leading China's cooperation with Africa," said Abdualla Elfrid, vice chairman of ACACDI. "And we believe the building will become a bridge for deepening exchanges, enhancing understanding, and expanding cooperation between China and Africa." China has remained Africa's largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching a record 282.1 billion U.S. dollars in 2023, according to the Ministry of Commerce. While Chinese investments in Africa are often represented by large state-owned enterprises building railways, ports and power stations in Africa, smaller private companies are increasingly credited with boosting trade, creating jobs and channeling technology and investments into diverse sectors. Local commodities are displayed at the China-Africa Economic and Trade Headquarters Building in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, July 22, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Zhenhai) With heavy participation of private companies, China-Africa cooperation has diversified from infrastructure, mining and agriculture to logistics, digital economy, clean energy, finance and others, said Xu Xiangping, head of the China-Africa Economic and Trade Promotion Council. "These companies are bringing technologies and knowhow into Africa, especially in renewable energy, agriculture and digitalization, which is beneficial to Africa's modernization," Xu said. In recent years, China has put various mechanisms in place to spur private cooperation with Africa, including China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo and China (Hunan) Pilot Free Trade Zone. Hunan often hosts such pioneering policies with its strength in agricultural technology, equipment manufacturing and infrastructure construction. Shen Yumou, who heads Hunan's department of commerce, said the building would encourage more small and medium-sized Chinese companies to invest in Africa by pooling together resources and by providing channels and localization services. "Micro, small and medium-sized companies are more concerned about the costs and risks involved in their journey to Africa, so our goal is to create a safer and more efficient ecosystem for them," he said. Commodities from Africa are displayed at the China-Africa Economic and Trade Headquarters Building in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, July 22, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Zhenhai) Meanwhile, the building is expected to guide more African companies into China to tap into the sprawling market of the world's second-largest economy. Thanks to expeditious government handling of Africa-related services and its proximity to the manufacturing powerhouse of Guangdong, Hunan has become an ideal springboard for African companies hoping to enter China, said Luo Qin, general manager of Changsha Starlink Foreign Enterprise Comprehensive Services Co., Ltd. "Many African companies have set their sights on Hunan and the new headquarters," said Luo, whose company offers foreign trade services to other companies. "We expect the building to become a leading platform for China-Africa trade in the near future." (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Interview: Prospects for China-Dutch agricultural cooperation promising: Dutch expert Xinhua) 10:36, August 06, 2024 THE HAGUE, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- Harry Wichers, a senior researcher at Wageningen University and Research (WUR) in the Netherlands, has emphasized the promising prospects for agricultural cooperation between the Netherlands and China. In a recent interview with Xinhua, Wichers highlighted key areas such as sustainable development, food and health, and addressing the challenges of an aging population. Sustainable development is crucial for both countries, and WUR aims to support sustainable development in both countries through collaborations with Chinese enterprises and research institutions, he told Xinhua. WUR is a renowned institution in agricultural sciences, both in the Netherlands and globally. Wichers also highlighted nutrition as a key area for potential collaboration, noting the implications of increasing average life expectancy and declining birth rates, which lead to an aging population. As people age, the likelihood of health issues increases, which significantly impacts healthcare costs, he explained. WUR would strive to conduct researches to support healthy living through nutrition and by creating a healthy living environment. China's dairy giant Mengniu Group has recently signed a project cooperation agreement with WUR to initiate joint research and innovation in the fields of nutritional science and food technology. During the signing ceremony, Wichers was honored with the title of "Mengniu Global Think Tank Expert." Highlighting the growing global demand for protein driven by population growth, Wichers noted that dairy products, a key protein source, are central to Mengniu's innovative approach. "Mengniu is an innovative Chinese dairy company," and the challenges they face align perfectly with WUR's expertise, he noted, expressing belief that there are many opportunities for WUR and Mengniu to collaborate effectively. Wichers emphasized that WUR highly values partnerships with companies, as these collaborations facilitate the practical application and transformation of research and innovation outcomes. When these companies want to apply our research, it shows that what we are doing is important, he said. "If nobody cared about our work or asked about it, we would feel irrelevant." The interest and application of research findings by the companies underscore the real-world value of academic research, he said. WUR hopes its research will attract the attention of companies, proving its practical application potential. According to Wichers, WUR has established extensive collaborations with Chinese companies and research institutions, jointly cultivating agricultural talent. Currently, many Chinese students are pursuing their doctoral degrees at WUR, reflecting the depth of this cooperative relationship. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) A 44-year-old Maryland man told his girlfriend they were going on vacation but actually kidnapped her, tied her up, and watched her die in the Nevada desert. John Matthew Chapman, 44, was sentenced to life in prison on Friday for the killing of Jaime Feden, 33, of Bethel Park, Penn. He was found guilty of kidnapping resulting in death after an eight-day trial in May. "The defendant violated the victim's trust by luring her away from her family and friends in Pennsylvania and out into the Nevada desert, where he viciously killed her," said United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada during trial. Chapman lured Feden under the rouse they were going on a trip in September 2019 and drove her to Lincoln County, Nevada, bounding her hands and feet before tying her to a signpost. He then ductaped her mouth and nose and watched her die from asphyxiation. After leaving Jaime's body in the desert, he drove back to Pennsylvania and threw out several items of her clothing along the way. A welfare check was conducted after a friend alerted the Bethel Park Police Department that Jaime was missing. Prosecutors said she was born with VATER syndrome, a group of birth defects that develop during pregnancy and can cause physical and intellectual disabilities, according to Trib Live. Neighbors told detectives that they had not seen her in approximately two months but said they saw a person whom they believed to be her boyfriend entering and leaving her home. She allegedly dated Chapman off and on for about a decade, despite Chapman being married, according to court documents. Detectives found identification cards with Chapman's name and photograph, Jaime's phone, multiple zip ties and a roll of duct tape in her home as they investigated her death. They found that leading up to the 2019 Nevada trip, a search of Chapman's computer revealed search inquiries like "What is the perfect place to dump bodies?" "Dump+body+nevada," and "How can I successfully dump a dead body without being caught?" Chapman admitted to law enforcement that he drove her from Bethel Park to Las Vegas claiming the trip was a vacation, telling her that they may look at homes to buy there. However, Chapman had planned the murder well before their departure. He was able to draw her to the desert under the pretext of a bondage photo shoot. He went back to Pennsylvania and pretended to be her on Facebook Messenger account while continuously using her home and money. Jamie's obituary described her as resilient, kind, loving, and strong-willed. A 46-year-old Rapid City man was sentenced Monday to 10 years in prison with two suspended after he randomly pulled a gun on a 17-year-old girl at an intersection in Rapid City. On Jan. 27, 2023, Lyle Blue Legs Jr. walked up to a vehicle at the intersection of Fifth Street and Saint Cloud Street, knocked on the window, made the shape of gun with his hand, and then pulled out a .380 caliber pistol and pointed it at the teenage driver. Senior Deputy Pennington County State's Attorney Brandy Rhead said the victim was in the process of gathering money when Blue Legs approached because she thought he was someone in need. She sped away once she saw the gun. Rhead called Blue Legs' actions "violent, reckless, and incredibly dangerous." In February 2023, a grand jury charged Blue Legs with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a firearm by one with a prior drug conviction. According to court documents, Blue Legs was convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine in federal court in 2007. On July 1, Blue Legs pleaded no contest to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The defense and state did not agree to a specific sentence at that time, but the state agreed to not charge Blue Legs as a habitual offender for his past conviction. Habitual offenders face higher maximum sentences. On Monday, Rhead asked Circuit Court Judge Joshua Hendrickson to give Blue Legs 10 years in prison with two suspended. The charge carried a maximum of 15 years. Hendrickson said he had a sentence longer than 10 years in mind, but he chose not to exceed the state's request. Blue Legs' defense attorney, Todd Love, asked the judge to consider a probationary sentence. He said his client went through treatment programs when he was in federal prison and started his own tattoo business when he got out in 2015. "The alcohol got to him," Love said. An affidavit in Blue Legs' case shows his blood alcohol content was between .30% and .31% at the time of the assault. Love said his client "simply doesn't remember any of the incident." The defense attorney argued Blue Legs isn't someone who needs to go to prison, and he could be kept supervised and away from alcohol on probation. Blue Legs apologized to the victim during his remarks. "If she's in here," he said, clarifying he wouldn't recognize her if she was in the courtroom. He said he loses sleep thinking about how much worse the incident could have been and acknowledged the victim must be hurt and traumatized. He also added he has daughters and "couldn't imagine it happening to them." "It scared me enough to not want to drink anymore," he said. Blue Legs will have 556 days of time served credited to his sentence. For the fifth year in a row, a thunderous roar echoed through Bear Butte State Park on the first Sunday of the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Streaks of red ribbons flew in the wind and more than 200 motorcyclists took off from the park to raise awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives. Typically, riders make their way to the Crazy Horse Memorial for an afternoon of prayer and education. Due to construction this year, riders stopped in Deadwood instead for a documentary screening at Outlaw Square. I think this is going to be such a good way to end it, said Prairie Rose Seminole, co-director of We Ride for Her, a documentary about the Medicine Wheel Ride. Sturgis has a history of sex trafficking and there needs to be awareness made in this space. This allows us to not only bring awareness but claim the space. We belong here too. Were changing the motorcycle culture to reflect who we are as Indigenous people. Seminole, who is Arikara and Northern Cheyenne, chose to focus the documentary on the Medicine Wheel Riders to highlight the groups grassroots efforts to educate others on MMIR. When we found the Medicine Wheel Riders, we thought this would be perfect (for the documentary), because heres a group of Indigenous women who are moving their grief into action and advocacy and establishing a mutual aid network for those going through the crisis, Seminole said. Moving the ride to Deadwood brought new opportunities to educate the general public on MMIR and end on an educational note by broadcasting We Ride for Her. Going out in those spaces, I feel a bit nervous, because how is our message going to be received? said Lorna Cuny, Oglala Lakota and co-founder of the Medicine Wheel Ride. We have a lot of outside influence at our event, but overall it was just an amazing event. With a sponsorship from the Harley-Davidson Corporation, riders showed the documentary We Ride for Her in Deadwood Square. From the rooftops of surrounding businesses, different attendees could watch the documentary while eating. The bike rally is one of the primary drivers of human trafficking in South Dakota, according to Native Hope, a South Dakota-based non-profit organization that aims to address inequalities facing Indigenous people. Last year, five men were arrested following an annual sex-trafficking sting operation at the rally, and in the past decade, 76 men have been arrested. A 2022 report from the House Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Hearing stated that 40% of sex-trafficking victims in South Dakota are Native American women, despite Native women only making up 8% of the state's population. Deadwood has a long history of human trafficking and sex work, something Cuny learned during a tour of the city. (The tour guide) showed me shackles they had on the floor in some of the buildings where they would chain our women and traffick them, Cuny said. So it was really powerful for us to bring our message to Deadwood, because right up the street and surrounding us were places where our ancestors were trafficked and mistreated. From 1876 to 1980, sex work was common in Deadwood. Brothels were ultimately shut down in 1980 following a brief halt in 1950. Cuny said she was told Indigenous women were treated horribly during this period. Traffickers often seek individuals who are impoverished, isolated or come from an abusive home. We are working to bring awareness to it, Cuny said. We need to reach people outside of our communities. People dont always want to acknowledge it but this is an issue. Sturgis is a place where people come to party, not to learn about these types of things. Sturgis isnt the only time riders raise awareness for MMIR. Over the past week, Cuny and several Medicine Wheel Riders traveled over 2,000 miles, stopping in different Indigenous communities to discuss the epidemic. The stories are what sticks with you, said Corrine Tuma, a Navajo Medicine Wheel Rider from the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming. Sometimes you dont mean to cry because youre supposed to be the strong one, but theres times where you hear something and just start crying. But thats just you showing that you care. The ride across America and during Sturgis also serves as a major opportunity to educate non-Native people on issues facing Native communities. We were standing in line talking, bringing awareness like we do, and there were a couple of older men waiting in line to get in, Tuma said. I talked with them for quite some time. When we got out (of the movie) I could see one of the men looking around for me. He was crying. He said, That was so inspirational, moving and awesome. He said he was going to keep up with us. It made my heart feel really good, knowing that I got to bring awareness to someone about what goes on. The CEO of Virginias technology authority left amid an employment dispute, a state official acknowledged. But as for the cause for the dispute or how much she was paid to leave, state officials wont say. Chandra Briggman abruptly left Activation Capital last month. A state delegate at the time said members of Gov. Glenn Youngkins administration were dissatisfied with her performance. Youngkin was not involved in her departure, a spokesperson for the governor said then. The spokesperson declined to address the situation on Monday. Activation Capital, a state authority, is charged with growing technology and entrepreneurism in the state. It also oversees the VA Bio+Tech Park, a 34-acre science and technology campus in downtown Richmond. Briggman became CEO of Activation Capital in 2020 and initially earned an annual salary of $250,000, according to a copy of her offer letter obtained by the Richmond Times-Dispatch. She did not respond to a message seeking comment on Monday. The authority for years has struggled to find a tenant for a planned $50 million, four-story building project at East Leigh and North Eighth streets. If the authority cannot show progress by next year, it could lose $16 million in federal funding. Facing a tight deadline, Activation Capital is now considering a scaled-down building. Briggman announced her resignation last month. The board of directors of the Virginia Biotechnology Research Partnership Authority, which hires and fires the CEO, chose Robert Ward as Activation Capitals interim leader. The board is chaired by Virginia Commonwealth University President Michael Rao. Through the Freedom of Information Act, The Times-Dispatch requested a copy of Briggmans contract and any separation agreement. Kipton Currier, Activation Capitals vice president of operations, declined to share a document addressing Briggmans departure. Currier cited a statute in Virginia law that allows the state to withhold a contract that settles an employment dispute of a public employee. Asked what the dispute was, Currier declined to comment. Christian Martinez, a spokesperson for Youngkin, did not address the question either, referring back to Activation Capital. Governor Youngkin once again is grateful for Chandras leadership and is grateful for her service to the commonwealth, Martinez added. Tropical Storm Debby slammed Florida with torrential rain and high winds, contributing to at least four deaths as it turned menacingly toward the Eastern Seaboards low-lying regions and threatened to flood some of Americas most historic Southern cities. WHERE DID TROPICAL STORM DEBBY MAKE LANDFALL? Debby made landfall along the Gulf Coast of Florida early Monday as a Category 1 hurricane. It has since weakened to a tropical storm and is moving slowly, covering roads with water and contributing to at least four deaths. Landfall was near Steinhatchee, a tiny community in northern Florida of less than 1,000 residents. Its not far from where Hurricane Idalia made landfall less than a year ago as a Category 3 storm. WHAT DAMAGE IS EXPECTED? Record-setting rain was expected to cause flash flooding, with up to 30 inches possible in some areas, the National Hurricane Center said. The potential for high water threatened Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina. Up to 18 inches was forecast in central and north Florida. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis warned that just because the storm is moving into Georgia, it doesnt mean the state wont continue to see threats as waterways north of the border fill up and flow south. It is a very saturating, wet storm, he said during an afternoon briefing at the states emergency operations center. When they crest and the water thats going to come down from Georgia, its just something that were going to be on alert for not just throughout today, but for the next week. More than 300,000 customers remained without power in Florida and Georgia on Monday afternoon, down from a peak of more than 350,000, according to PowerOutage.us and Georgia Electric Membership Corp. WHAT ABOUT THE CAROLINAS? Some of the heaviest rains could come along the Atlantic Coast from Jacksonville, Florida, through coastal regions of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina. We could see a stall or a meandering motion around coastal portions of the southeastern United States, National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan said in a Saturday briefing. So thats going to exacerbate not just the rainfall risk, but also the potential for storm surge and some strong winds. As Tropical Storm Debby brings powerful wind and rain, I encourage all Virginians to be prepared for incoming weather & exercise caution. And THANK YOU to Virginia Task Force 1 & 2 who are answering the call to assist neighboring states. Together, we can weather this storm. Governor Glenn Youngkin (@GovernorVA) August 5, 2024 Charleston, South Carolina, officials announced a curfew starting at 11 p.m. Monday for the peninsula that makes up much of downtown and the older parts of the 350-year-old city as some of the heaviest rain from Tropical Storm Debby is expected to fall overnight. Police will barricade all eight roads leading into the peninsula and only let essential workers and emergency personnel in or out. High-water vehicles will also be staged to go into the area as needed, Charleston Mayor William Cogswell said at a Monday evening news conference. We need people to make their way out. This is not something you can stay at the bar until 10:45. We need you to take this seriously, Cogswell said. The mayor said forecasters told him 10 to 12 inches of rain could fall in Charleston overnight. City officials will assess the situation early Tuesday and decide how and when to reopen roads and lift the curfew. The White House said Monday that President Joe Biden has approved a request from South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster for an emergency declaration, following his earlier approval of a similar request from Florida. North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency Monday ahead of Debby's anticipated rainfall. Flooding and power outages are expected to start Tuesday and continue through the rest of the week, according to North Carolina Emergency Management officials. WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT IN VIRGINIA? The National Weather Service in Wakefield reports that impacts from Tropical Storm Debby could be seen in Virginia as early as Wednesday, potentially continuing into the weekend. The weather services most recent briefing stated uncertainty remains about what those impacts may look like. Heavy rainfall and flooding are likely primary threats. Additional potential impacts include increased chances for rip currents and gusty winds later this week, but its too soon for specific timing. Current estimates have the storms intensity at about 69 mph. How strong Debby will get depends on how far over the Atlantic Ocean the system moves, and how long it remains over water. Gov. Glenn Youngkin posted on social media Monday: "As Tropical Storm Debby brings powerful wind and rain, I encourage all Virginians to be prepared for incoming weather & exercise caution. And THANK YOU to Virginia Task Force 1 & 2 who are answering the call to assist neighboring states. Together, we can weather this storm." The Associated Press and The Virginian-Pilot contributed to this report. A criminal defense attorney in Florida on Friday pleaded guilty to attempting to bomb the Chinese embassy in Washington, D.C., in September last year, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia announced. Christopher Rodriguez, 45, also admitted bombing a "satirical" sculpture of communist leaders Vladimir Lenin and Mao Zedong in San Antonio, Texas, in November 2022. He pleaded guilty to damaging property occupied by a foreign government, explosive materials-malicious damage to federal property, and receipt or possession of an unregistered firearm (destructive device). According to court documents, Rodriguez drove from his home in Panama City, Fla., to Virginia with a rifle and 15 pounds of explosive material on Sept. 23-24, 2023. En route, he stopped to buy a black backpack, nitrile gloves, and a burner cell phone. On Sept. 24, he used the burner phone to call a taxi to drive him near to the Embassy of the People's Republic of China. Between midnight and 3 a.m., Rodriguez planted the backpack, filled with explosives, next to a street light near the back wall of the embassy. He then attempted to detonate it by shooting at it with the rifle. He missed the target, however, and the explosives failed to detonate. BREAKING: A Florida lawyer has admitted he attempted to blow up a portion of a wall outside the Chinese Embassy in D.C. last year and to his previously unknown involvement in an explosion outside Texas Public Radio HQ in 2022. Story here: https://t.co/YBLcyO4pgE pic.twitter.com/PNv5IaxYry Jordan Fischer (@JordanOnRecord) August 2, 2024 Law enforcement later found the backpack still containing the explosive materials, along with three shell casings and bullet fragmentations and impact marks along the embassy wall. DNA found on the backpack was linked to Rodriguez from a prior arrest in California in June 2021, and a buccal swab confirmed the match. In November 2022, Rodriguez rented a vehicle in Pensacola, Fla., and drove to San Antonio, Texas. On Nov. 7, at around 2:25 a.m., he scaled an eight-foot fence to enter a courtyard where a satirical, anti-communist sculpture titled "Miss Mao Trying to Poise Herself at the Top of Lenin's Head" was on display. He placed two canisters of explosives at the base of the sculpture, and used a rifle to successfully detonate them, causing "significant" damage to the sculpture. Rodriguez was arrested by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) in Lafayette, La., on Nov. 4, 2023, and has remained in custody since. --with reporting by TMX State officials begin preparations for weekend arrival of brewing Atlantic system Riviera Maya, Q.R. State officials have begun preparations for the arrival of a system expected to hit the coastal region this weekend. While the system is currently only a low pressure zone, the National Hurricane Centre (NOAA) says it has a high probability of further development before making landfall. On Monday, Guillermo Nunez Leal, the General Director of the State Coordination of Civil Protection of Quintana Roo (COEPROC), led a virtual meeting with the 11 Municipal Directors of Civil Protection. During the meeting, officials agreed to begin the necessary preparations in the presence of a low pressure zone in the Atlantic Ocean with a high probability of cyclonic development in the next seven days, State Civil Protection reported. Civil Protection personnel begin preparations for the weekend arrival of the system. Photo: CGC August 5, 2024. Upfront preparations include the installation and equipping of emergency shelters as well as the cleaning of drains to minimize the risk of flooding. These actions are part of a comprehensive response plan to climate emergencies, ensuring that all municipalities are prepared to face possible contingencies, the state agency reported. As of Tuesday morning, the low pressure zone, which is headed for the coast of Quintana Roo, is located approximately 2,400 kilometers east-southeast of the coast. Development is expected as the system enters the Caribbean Sea. According to the NOAA, currently, the system only has a 30 percent probability of further development over the next week, however, as it continues west and reaches the Caribbean Sea, it is expected to quickly develop further. Regardless of development, Mexicos Servicio Meteorologico Nacional (SMN) is calling for very heavy rains for the state Friday. Up to 150 mms of rain is forecast for the coastal region of Quintana Roo with the arrival of the low pressure zone. SMN has forecast very heavy rains for the coastal regions of Quintana Roo Friday. During the course of Friday, a low pressure system with the probability of developing into a cyclone is expected to approach the Yucatan Peninsula, causing very heavy rains to intense points in the Peninsula as well as in the southeast in addition to strong gusts of wind and high waves on the coasts of Yucatan and Quintana Roo, the SMN reported early Tuesday. On Tuesday morning, the NOAA clarified any development of this system should be slow to occur during the next couple of days while it moves westward over the central Caribbean Sea. The system is forecast to affect the entire Yucatan Peninsula. Environmental conditions are expected to become more conducive for development later this week as the system moves across the western Caribbean Sea or the southern Gulf of Mexico. Following a police raid on a local newspaper last year, two special prosecutors announced on Monday that they plan to charge the former Central Kansas police chief with obstruction of justice over his conduct. In a 124-page report, prosecutors Marc Bennett and Barry Wilkerson highlighted that the staff at the Marion County Record had committed no crimes before Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody organized a raid on its offices and the home of its publisher. Bennett and Wilkerson said police warrants signed by a judge to allow the searches included false information due to an "inadequate investigation". They stated the searches were not legally justified, according to The Associated Press. Police body camera footage captured the 2023 raid on publisher Eric Meyer's home and shows his 98-year-old mother, Joan Meyer, extremely upset as she yelled at officers to, "Get out of my house!" She co-owned the Marion County Record, resided with her son, and died of a heart attack the next afternoon. Prosecutors found no evidence that officers "believed they were posing a risk to Mrs. Meyer's life." However, they accuse Cody of obstructing an official judicial process in the weeks following the raid. "Small-town familiarity explains but does not excuse the inadequate investigation that gave rise to the search warrant applications in this matter," prosecutors said in their report. The state's attorney general appointed Bennett and Wilkerson to the case after the previous Marion County prosecutor also faced allegations concerning the search warrants. The raid launched a national debate about press freedom centered on Marion, a town of roughly 1,900 people. "The raid itself was criminal," said Seth Stern, director of the Freedom of the Press Foundation, in a statement when asked whether Cody should face other charges in addition to obstruction of justice. "And Cody is far from the only one at fault here." Meyer's revealed that he's grateful that the investigation led by the prosecutors cleared the newspaper's staff of any crimes, but questioned why it had taken a whole year. Furthermore, he expressed frustration over the fact that Cody is the only official who is expected to face criminal prosecution. "What I feel is going on here is that he's been set up as the fall guy," Meyer said. Federal lawsuits against the city of Marion and current as well as former local officials, including Cody, have been filed by Meyer and three staffers. The warrants authorizing the police raid accused Meyer and reporter Phyllis Zorn of identity theft and several computer crimes after they accessed the driving record of a local business owner who was seeking a liquor license at the time. The report also noted text messages exchanged between Cody and the business owner following the raid, with the owner alleging Cody asked her to delete the texts between them, fearing the public would misconstrue their relationship, which she states was professional and platonic. Cody resigned as chief last October. SIOUX CITY -- A Mexican man was sentenced Friday to 14 years in federal prison for selling methamphetamine while being in the United States illegally. Juan Cardona-Tinajero, 34, of Guadalajara, Mexico, pleaded guilty in March in U.S. District Court in Sioux City to single counts of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and being an illegal alien. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Cardona-Tinajero received packages of methamphetamine through the mail from California to a Sioux City home from January 2023 through September. He and others sold nearly 20 pounds of meth in the Sioux City area. Cardona-Tinajero had been removed from the United States in 2010 and 2014 and was in the country illegally. What does Kamala Harris know about foreign policy? More than that, what has she done as vice president in an administration thats brimming with foreign-policy heavyweights, not least President Joe Biden himself, who has spent his entire political careernearly half a centuryimmersed in global politics? Its a legitimate question. But it turns out she knows, and has actively been involved in, a lot more than has been reported during her three and a half years in office. The White House press office has not served as her most avid publicist. Spokesmen now reel off some statisticsshe has visited 21 countries on 17 foreign trips, met with more than 150 leaders, and led the U.S. delegation at three Munich Security Conferencesbut this doesnt mean much. Did she shake hands and read a speech, or did she engage in substantive diplomacy? Some of her trips amounted to rote bits of protocol, but according to several knowledgeable sources, some of them among her entourage but also a number of independent close observers, quite a few of these foreign visits broke ground and even made impact. And though most of the positions that she has formed on foreign policy match those of Bidens (news reports frequently say that theres no space between them), her slant is distinctive enough in some respects that the policies of a Harris presidencyon climate, on human rights, and in areas such as Africa and the Middle Eastcould be quite different. Advertisement One crucial fact: According to several officials, Harris has attended almost every National Security Council meeting and, more important still, almost every Presidents Daily Brief, during which a senior intelligence officer lays out, both in writing and in an oral presentation, the threats and other developments affecting U.S. interests across the world. Biden receives four or five PDBs a week. These are not passive exercises; they often last an hour or more, with Biden, Harris, and other officials asking follow-up questions; sometimes the president calls in senior Cabinet secretaries or military advisers to discuss these issues at still greater length. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even if Harris had remained quiet at these meetings, her mere presence would have exposed her to more informationto a fuller picture of the world in its broadest dimensions and its most granular detailthan any newly elected president has ever had, coming in to office, in more than half a century. Advertisement And in fact, several officials say, Harris has actively engaged in these meetings. Nancy McEldowney, her national security adviser for the first year and a half of the BidenHarris term, says Harris has been a leading voice in the discussions during the briefings as well as subsequent deliberations both in the Oval [Office] and the [Situation Room] that focused on our responses to the intelligence. She has engaged on every issue and every part of the world. Other officials, speaking on background, confirm this account and say that this has remained the case in the two years since McEldowney left. In February 2022, when the PDB revealed new, highly reliable intelligence that Russian President Vladimir Putin was about to invade Ukraine, officials who were present say that it was Harris who suggested that the intel be shown to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a face-to-face meetingthen made the trip to do so herself. One official recalls, This was some of the most detailed intelligence sharing, outside of intelligence channels, that I have been party to. And her presentation of it, along with options of what we could do about it, was compelling. Harris has since met with Zelensky five more times. Advertisement Advertisement A few months earlier, U.S.French relations were on the verge of rupturing because the Biden administration sold a nuclear-powered submarine to Australia, thus preempting a submarine deal that Australia had signed with France. Harris proposed a face-to-face meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, made the trip, and smoothed over the tensions. (The press coverage of the trip focused more on her spending $500 on cookware at E. Dehillerin, a leading kitchen-supply store.) Advertisement She also held crucial meetings with Philippines President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. around the time that he was moving back into Americas orbit and away from Chinas, and she helped coordinate the renewed diplomacy between Marcos and Japan. Ian Bremmer, president of the Eurasia Group, who has observed Harris in public speeches and behind the scenes at several international forums, told me, Shes smart and high-powered. Shes not a foreign-policy wonk, but theres no question she has played an active role on a bunch of foreign-policy issues. Asked if she seems capable of having a lengthy, high-level conversation with a fellow world leader or someone who is a foreign-policy wonk, Bremmer replied, Absolutely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vice presidents have their own foreign-policy advisers, and if the veep moves up, the team sometimes moves with them. (During the Obama administration, Vice President Bidens national security adviser was Antony Blinken, who is now President Bidens secretary of state.) Harris has attracted very professional advisers, and while much has been made of heavy turnover among some of her staff (though most of those in the first year), the national-security team has endured. McEldowney was a career diplomat and former director of the Foreign Service Institute. When she left, for personal reasons, her deputy, Philip Gordon, rose to take her place and has stayed ever since. Rebecca Lissner, a former professor at the Naval War College who oversaw Bidens National Security Strategy, took Gordons place as deputy and has also remained in that job. Advertisement Related From Slate It Sure Seems as if Vladimir Putin Is Recalculating the U.S. Elections Read More Gordon had been the top Europe specialist in President Obamas State Department and on President Clintons NSC staff. He went on to create a center for U.S.Europe relations at the Brookings Institution. Michael McFaul, Obamas ambassador to Moscow, who now teaches at Stanford, has written, No one in the entire Biden administration knows more about Europe than Gordon, except maybe Biden himself. Gordon has also written an acclaimed book, Losing the Long Game: The False Promise of Regime Change in the Middle East. Advertisement Advertisement If Gordon is a senior official in a Harris presidency, the heads of Europe, including Ukraine, will breathe a deep sigh of relief. Not only will they have dodged the bullet of a reelected President Trump, who has expressed hostility toward alliances in general and NATO in particular, but they will be greeted at summits and conference calls by an American team simpatico with their interests. They, as well as other leaders, could also rest fairly assured that President Harris wouldnt be tempted by fantastic visions of simple regime change in, say, Iran. Advertisement In short, Harris has been guided by specialists whose views are mainly traditional and international, with a focus on allies and preserving the peace, not embarking on unrealistic adventures to change the worlda view very much like Bidens. She differs from Biden in a few ways. She privately disagrees with the formulation of world politics as a contest between democracy and autocracy, the sources close to her noted, and sees that as oversimplifying and even misleading, given the kinds of allies that were sometimes forced to choose. She also seems more sensitive to the emerging centrality of issues such as climate change and A.I., as well as to humanitarian issuesthe plight of masses of people in the global south, especially Africa and the Middle East. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her stance on the Middle East has raised eyebrows in recent months. Some have exaggerated her differences with Biden. Early on in the Israel-Hamas war, Harris called for an immediate ceasefire, which some saw as a break from the administration; but, in fact, she also said the ceasefire could happen only if Hamas freed the hostages. She is also genuinely committed to helping defend Israel from an attack. Still, officials familiar with her views say she is more intensely concerned about civilian casualties and suffering in Gaza. In the speech where she called for a ceasefire in language no different from Bidens, she also described Gaza as a humanitarian catastrophe and the treatment of civilians as inhumaneterms that Biden had never invoked. If Harris had been president the last nine months, Ian Bremmer speculates, she would have been much less likely to give [Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu] blank checks. Vice President Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate on Tuesday morning. Its the culmination of a two-week sprint for the vacancy left by Harris sudden ascension to the top of the ticket. In such a crowded field of talent under consideration, Walz got the nod not by default. He wasnt merely the least objectionable candidate. He earned it. Of all the candidates the VP took under considerationWalz, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh ShapiroWalz had the lowest national profile two weeks ago. The former enlisted soldier, schoolteacher, and member of Congress had worked with the Minnesota Legislature to pass a raft of progressive laws over the past couple of years, but he had never been presented to a national audience. That changed with Walzs first appearance two weeks ago on Morning Joe, the MSNBC proving grounds for the would-be running mates to perform their routines. What I know is, people like J.D. Vance know nothing about small-town America, Walz said. He described a state of divisiveness in the country where we cant even go to Thanksgiving dinner with our uncle because you end up in some weird fight that is unnecessary. After that got a chuckle, he added, Well, its truethese guys are just weird. Theyre running for He-Man Women-Haters Club or something. Advertisement Weird took off, earning a battlefield promotion to the top of Democratic talking points against Donald Trump and Vanceboth of whom offered plenty of material afterward to earn the descriptor. Suddenly, the previously little-known Minnesotan was in high demand across platforms, doing the Dew and prosecuting the case against the Republican ticket. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whos asking for this crazy stuff? Walz said in another MSNBC interview in late July. Whos asking to raise the price of insulin? Whos asking to get rid of birth control? They do these focus groups or whateverwhos sitting in a bar in Racine, Wisconsin, saying, You know what we really need? We need to ban Animal Farm. Nobody is. Walzs main competition for the slot, if any of the reporting during the past two weeks is to be believed, was Shapiro. The case for Shapiro was obvious. Hes a gifted orator and talented campaigner governing the most important swing state in the country. Hes popular in his state, and his selection could have added a decisive point or two to the Democratic tickets vote share there. Advertisement Related From Slate Kamala Harris Has Been Much More Involved in Foreign Policy Than We Realize Read More But to the extent an opposition campaign against a candidate was able to coalesce in this rapid process, it was targeted at Shapiro. Some of Shapiros rhetoric about Israels war in Gaza and the campus protesters of a few months ago struck a nerve with the left, and Shapiros support for private school vouchers in Pennsylvania had earned him criticism from teachers unions. The specific targeting of Shapiros views on Israel, as opposed to Walzs roughly similar stance, seemed to some Democrats flatly antisemitic. The revelation of a college newspaper column Shapiro had written about Palestinians being too battle-minded for self-governance, even if decades old, may have made his selection too high a risk for the Harris campaign as it seeks to project unity heading into the convention. With Walz having blitzed the media for weeks, making a lot of friends but apparently zero enemies within the Democratic coalition, the Do No Harm choice presented itself. Advertisement How will Republicans go after Walz? The pro-Trump super PAC MAGA Inc., in its first blast after the reported pick, described him as an incompetent liberal with creepy far-left views, citing trans rights legislation Walz had signed. It also made reference to Walzs leadership during riots following the 2020 killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Advertisement But Walz is not atop the ticket. The more meaningful arguments on VP selections for opposing campaigns are what they indicate about the nominee herself. And Republicans will argue not just that Walz himself is a reflection of the dangerously liberal candidate atop the Democratic ticket, as the Trump campaign put it in a statement about Radical Leftist Tim Walz on Tuesday. Theyll say that Harris revealed her true colors by caving to the lefts demands. Advertisement San Francisco liberal Kamala Harris ideological comfort zone remains at the very far left fringes of her party, National Republican Congressional Committee spokesman Will Reinert said in a statement. By snubbing Pro-Israel Shapiro its the clearest sign yet that 2024 Kamala is the same as the 2019 primary Kamala. This argument would have more oomph if, in siding with the lefts preferred candidate among the available options, Harris had burned other major constituencies within the Democratic coalition. But no element of the coalition, as best I can tell, had an actual problem with Walz. Democrats from the left to the middle have seen two weeks of the guy, and they like him. He may have been progressives favorite, but he also knows how to reach out to the middle, which is how he stayed in Congress for 12 years representing a more rural, middle-of-the-road district. In showing he could offer something for everyone, he made his own destiny. On Monday, a judge ruled that Google holds a monopoly on the markets for online search engines and text-based search advertising services. The decision for U.S. et al. v. Google by Judge Amit P. Mehta is likely to be one of the most consequential antitrust defeats for a tech giant in decades, with a wide-ranging impact on how millions worldwide search for information online. Dont get it twisted: This is nothing short of historic. Of course, there are some caveats. It will likely take years to feel the full effects, since Google has stated in response that it will engage in a lengthy appeal. Another legal process to decide actual company damages wont kick off till next month, so we dont know what this means for Google in the near term. The rulings potency will also now depend on how legislators and regulators address the market shake-up and on what changes the search giant makes in response. This internet-transforming decision will not, cannot, upturn all of cyberspace overnightthe overall tech-stock plunge notwithstanding. Still, this is a big freaking deal. The federal governments case against Google marks its first antitrust victory against a Big Tech giant in 25 years, following the successful litigation against Microsoft in 1998 (a precedent that Mehta amply cited throughout his almost-300-page ruling). The decision leaves open the possibility that Mehta may force Google to change up some of its dealsespecially the exclusivity agreements with other tech companies that make for the heart of the caseor spin off some of its subsidiary businesses and programs. Advertisement Perhaps most consequentially, it makes for a promising indicator as to how the Biden administrations other tech-antitrust actions may fare, including its ongoing litigation against Apple as well as its other case against Googles hold over the ad-tech marketwhich is scheduled to head to trial next month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more, heres a breakdown of some of the biggest takeaways from Mehtas long U.S. v. Google filing: Google Monopolized the Markets The decision found that Google was an effective monopolist in two specific markets, defined by the court as general search services and general search text advertising. The former refers to the broader-internet search engines that scrape the web and surface relevant results in response to user questionsof which Google owns nearly 90 percent market share. Advertisement Mehta notes that Google effectively tied up both tech companies and consumers hands by paying boatloads of money to make itself the default choice on major software applications like Safari, Android, and Firefox. Internal communications revealed that Google recognized the power of cornering these defaults early on, as well as the hit the company would take should it lose any of them, having recognized that companies like Microsoft were likewise eager to incorporate Bing as a default in rival companies tech. Signed agreements with phone-makers required that Google Chrome, the Google Search Widget, and the Play Store for apps come preloaded, as internal research led them to believe that users would be dissuaded from using Google otherwise. Further, a 2020 study from Google cited in the case concluded that far fewer users search directly through Google.comshowing that the defaults drive outsize shares of both Google searches and resultant revenue. Advertisement Advertisement Now for the much narrower general search text advertising market. Whats important here is that Mehta does not view Google as a monopolist for all digital advertising or even all digital search advertising, such as the visual previews that appear in results only when people search for things to buy. However, Mehta agreed that Google does have outsize capture of the market for those sponsored, text-based URLs that appear at the top of certain results pages and can be bought for all types of salesso, for listings for physical products and also services. Due to this capture, Google is able to overcharge text-ad clients and shroud its actual terms in secrecy in a way that it hasnt with more visually oriented ads. Advertisement Advertisement Google Fostered Forced Dependency Googles signing of multibillion-dollar agreements to be the search engine of choice for various tech companies prevents these vendors from potentially working with other search-engine operators. As a result, it crowds out potential search competitors from the market altogether, while dissuading others from even getting into the search game. The examples provided to this effect are eyebrow-raising. In 2009, when Apple sought greater flexibility to allow its users access to other search engines, Google leveraged its revenue share with Applea provision it had itself granted to Apple in their first agreementto maintain Google as the exclusive default search engine for Safari. Advertisement Advertisement Google retained an entire behavioral economics team, which conducted multiple studies as to consumer behavior when it comes to various search trends and default arrangements. Not something a lot of other places, especially scrappy startups, can afford to have! Advertisement A one-time search-default agreement between Yahoo and Mozilla Firefox required that the former pay the latter hundreds of millions of dollars for the privilege. But it didnt last for one reason: Yahoo couldnt keep up with Google in terms of ready cash. This resulted in Yahoo increasing the ads on search results, degrading the user experience and ultimately resulting in Mozilla changing the default back to Google. Its also important to note that Google is now essentially propping up Mozilla. In 2021 the search giants revenue share to Mozilla was about 80 percent of Mozillas operating budget. The lawsuit points out that there have been only two new search competitors of note in the past 15 years: DuckDuckGo, which after more than a decade in existence has a mere 2.1 percent of the market share; and the now defunct artificial intelligencepowered Neeva. The reason Neeva didnt survive was because it couldnt break in to becoming a default provider on major browsers or operating systems, according to the suit, despite raising an abundance of cash and developing a potent competitor in just a few years. Without the ability to even enter the market, Neeva couldnt hope to attract advertisers and recoup costs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With all this considered, its no wonder that venture capitalists and other investors have stayed away from funding new search ventures, according to the lawsuit. Google itself stated in court that the payments make its partners exceptionally resistant to change. As Mehta put it: No one would ever describe a competitive marketplace in those terms. When again citing that very statement, Mehta noted that that is the antithesis of a competitive market and pointed out: These are Fortune 500 companies, and they have nowhere else to turn other than Google. Google Seems to Have Lied a Lot! Considering that the majority of Googles revenue is ad revenue, the details behind the ad business are especially pertinent to an antitrust argument. Text ads are the majority of advertising on Google, making up about 80% of Googles search ads by revenue. Advertisement In court, advertisers such as Home Depot and JPMorgan Chase consistently testified that shifting significant ad spending from Google to Bing would be ineffective (and unwise) because of Bings lack of scale, a result of Googles crowding it out of wider use via default agreements. Advertisers have no choice but to use Google or lose money: When advertisers have experimented by turning off search ads for a portion of queries or products, they have lost revenue. Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate The Ugly Truth Behind Ticketmasters Lawsuit Read More Google also implements and deals with ads through an auction systema rigged one. Google regularly makes runners-up for an ad spot seem more competitive than they truly are, causing the actual top-rated bidders to pay more than what market pricing would normally dictate. Advertisers cant opt out of these systems or from Googles decision processes, even though the search giant understood that this might occasionally come at a cost (or no improvement) to advertisers who came to it for premium placement. And it kept inching up ad prices even further over time by manipulating the process so that its advertisers did not understand those changes to be Googles fault. Advertisement Advertisement This wasnt the only time Google obscured relevant metrics or quietly switched up terms to advertisers detriment. Google removed the ability for its ad vendors to opt out of certain ad auctions based on targeted keywords, despite recognizing that this move would remove control from advertisers, including those that had vocally expressed their desire to be excluded from those keyword-based auctions. What About the Users? What does all this mean for those of us who use Google products every day, usually by default? Well, it depends on next months proceedings, but there are some factors indicating which way this could head. Advertisement For one, if this ruling survives a Google appeal, it would strike down a lot of Googles default agreements with various Big Tech platformsmeaning that browsers, smartphones, and operating systems would come without Google-made features embedded as the default. Instead, consumers would likely be given more upfront options to customize their search engines, non-Chrome browsers, and app marketplaces, on both desktop and mobile. The ruling could also open up the startup space to more aspiring search competitors, like the now-dead Neeva, which may garner more interest from VCs and gain the ability to be included as options for consumers to try out when they get a new computer, phone, or software update. In a time when users are increasingly sick of everything Googlefrom the degraded search quality to the coercive app-market dominance of its Play Store to the default data-scraping options that go toward training its A.I.this could pave the way for a whole new internet. It is unclear whether the European Commission approves the changes. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share Slovakias National Crime Agency (NAKA), which has been at the forefront of investigating high-profile crimes such as corruption and terrorism, is set to be dismantled by the end of August. This was first reported by Juraj Seliga, a politician from the non-parliamentary party Demokrati. Starting in September, NAKA is said to be replaced by the Office for the Fight Against Organised Crime (UBOK), which should now include a Counter-Corruption Unit, a Criminal Investigation Unit, a Financial Police Unit, and a Financial Investigation and Analytical Unit. A new National Anti-Drug Unit is also said to be established, while investigations into extremism should be transferred to regional police authorities. Seliga noted, Effectively, the responsibilities handled by NAKA will now be divided among three separate organisations. UBOK to return UBOK, which existed before NAKAs formation in 2012, should thus oversee a broader scope of crime prevention as of September. The merger of UBOK with the Office for the Fight Against Corruption in 2012 led to the creation of NAKA. At that time, Smer was in power. Additionally, a new entity within the police corps is believed to replace the current National Central Unit for Special Types of Crime (NCODK), which handles environmental crimes, financial investigations, and cyber crime. The fate of this unit is uncertain, particularly as it relies on European Union funds from the recovery plan, which may impose conditions on its restructuring, writes the news website Aktuality.sk. It remains unclear whether the European Commission is currently okay with the proposed reorganisation of key Slovak police agencies. It raised concerns in June. Currently, over 1,000 police officers work in NAKA and NCODK. With anticipated cuts, up to 700 top police officers may be reassigned to lower police units in regions and towns. This comes at a time when Slovakia faces a potential mass exodus of police personnel, with up to 5,000 officers eligible for retirement this year out of a total force of approximately 20,000. Interior minister on NAKA Earlier this year, Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok (Hlas) indicated that NAKA, in its current form, would not survive. He emphasised that the future of NAKA hinged on the fate of the Special Prosecutors Office, which oversaw NAKAs investigations. The Special Prosecutors Office was dissolved in March following the ruling coalitions decision. Sutaj Estok had previously criticised NAKA as being bloated and in need of reform, hinting that a complete dissolution was a possibility. Meanwhile, a group of NAKA investigators associated with investigator Jan Curilla, who have been probing corruption cases involving figures associated with the ruling coalition, including the Smer party, are facing unjustified charges over abuse of power. They are currently suspended from work and must remain at home during working hours. Last week, 23 investigators from the National Crime Agency rallied in defence of their accused colleagues. The police have not disputed reports that these 23 investigators are now slated for reassignment to lower-tier police departments. Seliga has condemned the move, characterising it as a retaliatory action by the ruling coalition. Environmental Police chief to leave Television network Markiza reported on Wednesday that Mario Kern, the head of the Environmental Police, will step down at the end of this month. The police told Markiza, The executive you mentioned has not been dismissed, as suggested, but is leaving at his own request. There will be no immediate changes; the Environmental Police will continue to operate as usual. Kern has led the agency since its establishment in 2019. Exxon ranked No. 12 on the 2024 Fortune Global 500. KAREN BLEIER, Contributor / AFP FILES/AFP via Getty Images Houstons status as a corporate capital was confirmed this week as it ranked behind only New York with the most Fortune 500 companies in the U.S., with another on the way. Eight Houston companies made Fortune magazines latest ranking of the worlds largest companies. Next year, that number will grow by at least one after Chevron moves to Houston from California. New York is home to 16 of the companies. Texas companies on Fortune's list 12. Exxon Mobil (Houston) 16. McKesson (Irving) 52. Phillips 66 (Houston) 61. Valero Energy (San Antonio) 74. AT&T (Dallas) 110. Tesla (Austin) 133. Dell Technologies (Round Rock) 155. Energy Transfer (Dallas) 163. Sysco (Houston) 199. Caterpillar (Irving) 235. ConocoPhillips (Houston) 278. American Airlines Group (Fort Worth) 281. LyondellBasell (Rotterdam, Houston, London) 299. Oracle (Austin) 303. Enterprise Products Partners (Houston) 311. Plains GP Holdings (Houston) 360. USAA (San Antonio) 434. D.R. Horton (Arlington) 479. Schlumberger (Houston) The Fortune Global 500, which ranks companies by 2023 revenue, finds Exxon Mobil at No. 12 the highest-ranking local company with almost $345 billion in revenue, down 17% from the previous year, when it ranked 7th. The only other company to crack the top 100 was Phillips 66 at No. 52, a fall from 37th last year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Houstons entrants were dominated by energy companies, with food-services company Sysco, the lone outlier, rising 23 spots to 163. Other Houston-area companies among the 500 are ConocoPhillips at No. 235 (previously No. 149), Enterprise Products Partners at No. 303 (previously No. 239), LyondellBasell at No. 281 (previously No. 305), Plains GP Holdings at No. 311 (previously No. 243) and Schlumberger at No. 479 (not ranked in 2023). Chevron, which is moving its headquarters to Houston from Californias Bay Area, was 29th, falling six positions, with revenue of $200.9 billion. It stands to become the second-largest company in Houston upon relocating. Occidental Petroleum, which was No. 405 in 2023, Cheniere Energy (previously No. 458) and NRG Energy (previously No. 486) fell of the list. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Houston businesses were among 18 Texas companies and 139 from the U.S. on the list. Austin-based Tesla (No. 110) and Oracle (No. 299), have also moved into the state from California. LyondellBasell is incorporated in the Netherlands and has regional headquarters in Houston and London. At the top of the list were Walmart, Amazon, State Grid (Chinas state-owned electric utility corporation), Saudi Aramco (the Saudi Arabian state-owned oil company) and Sinopec (a Chinese oil company). For 35 years, Fortune has been tracking the worlds largest companies in our Global 500 ranking and its proven to be a dependable barometer of global business, Editor-in-Chief and Chief Content Officer Alyson Shontell said in an announcement. This years list shows a couple of trends colliding energy prices cooling while AI gets red-hot. THE CHRONICLE 100: Houstons top companies and employers Distinctive design and cultural influences from the Middle East inspire the environment at Haraz Coffee Houseand the name, which comes from the Haraz Mountains in Yemen. Owner Abdelrahman Abdelwahed has a vision for what this space can be in the Nashville coffee scene, and were thrilled to share that with you today as part of the 2024 Build-Outs of Coffee feature series. The 2024 Build-Outs of Coffee is presented by Ceado and Dona. The 2024 Build-outs of Coffee is sponsored by Pacific Barista Series, La Marzocco, Acaia, and Ghirardelli. As told to Sprudge by Abdelrahman Abdelwahed. For those who arent familiar, will you tell us about your company? Can you tell us a bit about the new space? We are thrilled to announce that our new location is in the Wabash building, also known as the WeWork building, right next to Basement East! Our space is beautifully illuminated with natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Weve embraced a modern Mediterranean aesthetic, featuring handmade blue Turkish tiles on the cafe counter and back wall. Additionally, youll find intricate geometric Arabian wooden designs and a signature Yemeni-style couch that welcomes you as soon as you walk in. Its truly a special place, designed to provide a unique and enriching experience. Whats your approach to coffee? 100% Premium Organic, sun dried with no pesticides coffee. In a breathtaking remote part of the world, the ancient villages of the Haraz Mountains in Yemen thrive 3,000 meters above sea level, continuously producing the perfect conditions to grow the most aromatic coffee beans in the world. The Haraz Mountains lie on Yemens lower west coast region, prospering since the 6th century as the birthplace of premium organic coffee. Now, centuries later, Haraz remains a globally acclaimed exporter of the most sought-after coffee. Any machines, coffees, special equipment lined up? For our coffee machine we are going with Aurelia Wave, grinder and tamper we have been sticking with Mahlkonig. How is your project considering sustainability? We take great care in sourcing our coffee and tea from ethical and sustainable farms. Whats your hopeful target opening date/month? We are aiming for beginning of July 2024! Are you working with craftspeople, architects, and/or creatives that youd like to mention? Absolutely, teamwork makes the dream work! A special shout out goes to our talented architect Mubarak Hauter and our amazing designer Lorraine Nassif. Additionally, I want to recognize my partner Jibran and his son Mohamed Baseery for their invaluable contributions. Their combined efforts have truly brought our vision to life. Thank you! Thank you so much for the opportunity to share my story with yall really appreciate this form too great questions! https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/desperate-for-attention-old-f-16s-arriving-in-ukraine-are-weak-publicity-stunt--1119653319.html 'Desperate for Attention': Old F-16s Arriving in Ukraine Are Weak Publicity Stunt 'Desperate for Attention': Old F-16s Arriving in Ukraine Are Weak Publicity Stunt Sputnik International Ukraine has received the first 10 of the nearly 80 F-16 fighter jets a year after the Biden administration agreed to European allies decision to send them, the Economist reported on Sunday. 2024-08-06T03:29+0000 2024-08-06T03:29+0000 2024-08-06T03:29+0000 analysis volodymyr zelensky russia ukraine kiev white house nato joe biden mark sleboda https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/08/01/1119590305_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_abbed6d440f1c21eceb047edc928e26e.jpg Ukraine has received the first 10 of the nearly 80 F-16 fighter jets a year after the Biden administration agreed to European allies decision to send them, the Economist reported Sunday. By the end of 2024 Ukraine will have 20 of the jets in operation, the report added.Mark Sleboda, an international relations and security analyst, joined Sputnik Monday to discuss the arrival of the F-16s to Ukraine and what may be expected from their use.[The Biden administration] wants it known that we're talking about six old European F-16s and we're talking about six barely trained Ukrainian pilots. And considering you need two pilots to fly one of these planes, that means that there's really not even a need for three planes, even assuming they're not all in the air at the same time, the analyst said.Retired US Army Europe Commanding General Ben Hodges has expressed frustration about the delay in getting the jets to Ukraine, noting that one of the main reasons for the delay is a lack of training slots for Ukrainian pilots. Typically pilots are trained for three years on how to fly F-16s, but Kievs pilots have only received nine months of training.But we know from sources from the US chairman of the joint chiefs and secretary of defense and from the Kiev regime's top general, we know that these are not game changing. They're not going to change anything on the battlefield, Sleboda explained.The Netherlands and Denmark were among the first countries to agree to supply F-16s to Ukraine. The White House later confirmed that Kiev would receive the US-made jets from third countries once Ukrainian pilots complete the training to fly them, Sputnik reported. Russian President Vladimir Putin, who spoke to Russian military pilots in March, stressed that the delivery of F-16s would not change the situation in Kiev.And, there are extremely high bounties for Russian military forces, for those who bring down F-16s, funded in large part by Russian companies, the analyst said. So send them, please. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240804/destruction-of-nato-f-16s-sent-to-ukraine-will-boost-russias-image-1119633955.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240801/the-only-answer-is-to-destroy-them-how-russia-plans-to-handle-ukraines-western-supplied-f-16s-1119595320.html russia ukraine kiev Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg 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 Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg ukraine, russia, f-16, analysis, white house, zelensky, putin, biden "This can be achieved by working out a political solution, and not by force, as is happening in the framework of the current negotiations. At the same time, we support any efforts to cease fire, deliver humanitarian aid, return refugees to their homes, fully withdraw Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip and the Palestinian authorities perform their functions in the enclave, as is the case in the West Bank," Abbas said. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/google-loses-antitrust-case-judge-rules-the-company-a-monopolist-1119654995.html Google Loses Antitrust Case, Judge Rules Company a Monopolist Google Loses Antitrust Case, Judge Rules Company a Monopolist Sputnik International The lawsuit has wrapped up nearly a year after the trial between the US Justice Department and Google first began. 2024-08-06T04:12+0000 2024-08-06T04:12+0000 2024-08-06T04:19+0000 americas google us justice department science & tech big tech tech companies tech giants lawsuit https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/07/08/1083333233_0:33:3501:2002_1920x0_80_0_0_46c8b32125d0c19c7eb32b64ddf9f0e7.jpg A judge ruled that Google has been unlawfully exploiting its dominance over competing companies Monday by stifling innovation in an effort to maintain dominance over the search engine industry. The lawsuit wrapped up nearly a year after the trial between the US Justice Department and Google first began.US District Judge Amit Mehta of the US District Court for the District of Columbia issued the decision after reviewing a years worth of evidence including testimonies from top executives at Google, Microsoft and Apple. Google and the DOJ presented their closing arguments in early May, AP reported.The ruling is perhaps the biggest antitrust decision of the modern internet era and could fundamentally alter how consumers use the internet. It could also hint at how other antitrust suits will play out against tech giants like Amazon, Apple, and Meta*, which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.The US battled Microsoft in a similar antitrust suit during the 1990s.Google is well known for its search engine so much so that the name of the company has become synonymous for the act of online search. Googles search engine handles about 8.5 billion searches per day across the world which is nearly double that of 12 years ago. The result of the suit will undoubtedly present a major blow to Google which generated nearly $240 billion in revenue last year.Kent Walker, Googles president of global affairs, said the company intends to appeal the ruling. The company also faces a separate federal antitrust case over ad technology that will go to trial next month.Meanwhile the Consumer Choice Center, a lobbying group, has accused the US of drifting toward the anti-tech posture of the European Union, a part of the world that makes almost nothing and penalizes successful American companies for their popularity.*Facebook/Meta is banned in Russia for extremism https://sputnikglobe.com/20240418/surveillance-panopticon-grows-more-powerful-with-attempted-tiktok-ban-backdoors-1117987163.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240417/fbi-wanted-to-install-backdoor-to-spy-on-users-telegram-founder-tells-tucker-carlson-1117970779.html americas Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg 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 Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg google, search engine, big tech, doj, internet, technology, lawsuit, antitrust suit https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/haniyehs-assassination-aimed-at-prolonging-conflict-in-gaza-complicating-talks---abbas-1119652892.html Haniyeh's Assassination Aimed at Prolonging Conflict in Gaza, Complicating Talks - Abbas Haniyeh's Assassination Aimed at Prolonging Conflict in Gaza, Complicating Talks - Abbas Sputnik International Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas said in an interview with Sputnik that the high-profile assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh would complicate negotiations to end the Israeli military campaign in the Gaza Strip and accused its organizers of seeking to prolong and expand the conflict. 2024-08-06T01:11+0000 2024-08-06T01:11+0000 2024-08-06T01:11+0000 middle east mahmoud abbas ismail haniyeh world newsfeed israel gaza strip hamas palestinian national authority (pna) https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/05/0d/1082874417_0:160:3073:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_184e062dd7445ed581b5ef75bf1f31b3.jpg MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas said in an interview with Sputnik that the high-profile assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh would complicate negotiations to end the Israeli military campaign in the Gaza Strip and accused its organizers of seeking to prolong and expand the conflict. The Palestinian Islamist group has placed responsibility for the murder of its leader, who arrived in Tehran for the inauguration of the Iranian president, on Israel, which has not commented on reports of involvement. He recalled that the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) had condemned Haniyeh's assassination, even despite its long-standing conflict with Hamas. "We consider this a cowardly act and a dangerous development in Israeli politics," Abbas said. The Arab Peace Initiative offers Israel the opportunity to normalize relations with its Middle East neighbors in exchange for the liberation of the occupied Palestinian territories. https://sputnikglobe.com/20231222/putin-abbas-discuss-palestinian-israeli-conflict-during-phone-talks---kremlin-1115746921.html israel gaza strip 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 abbas hamas assassination, abbas haniyeh, abbas israel negotiations https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/harris-chooses-minnesota-governor-tim-waltz-as-running-mate--reports-1119658270.html Harris Chooses Minnesota Governor Tim Waltz as Running Mate Reports Harris Chooses Minnesota Governor Tim Waltz as Running Mate Reports Sputnik International US Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Waltz to be her vice-presidential running mate, CNN reported on Tuesday, citing four unnamed sources. 2024-08-06T13:31+0000 2024-08-06T13:31+0000 2024-08-06T13:32+0000 americas 2024 us presidential election kamala harris vice president https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/08/06/1119658332_0:158:3118:1912_1920x0_80_0_0_7944313f08345661ac4d8df85f140db6.jpg Walz, 60, has served Minnesotas governor since 2019 and was previously a congressman from 2007-2019.Tim Walz has previously vowed unwavering support to Ukraine in a video meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky in April 2023. He used to show tolerance towards the idea of dialing down US support for Israel. americas 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 america, us presidential elections, kamala harris vp pick, waltz vp, waltz harris, vp candidates, democratic vp picks waltz, harris running mate https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/houthis-spokesman-claims-major-plans-for-strike-on-israel-1119653744.html Houthis Spokesman Claims 'Major Plans' for Strike on Israel Houthis Spokesman Claims 'Major Plans' for Strike on Israel Sputnik International An official spokesman for Yemeni movement Ansar Allah (the Houthis) said Monday the organization was developing major plans for a strike on Israel. 2024-08-06T02:47+0000 2024-08-06T02:47+0000 2024-08-06T02:47+0000 newsfeed middle east ismail haniyeh palestine israel houthis ansar allah world https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/1c/1119547247_0:118:2268:1394_1920x0_80_0_0_f5da78c50fb7fe8c0c33b8d70dee8364.jpg MOSCOW (Sputnik) - An official spokesman for Yemeni movement Ansar Allah (the Houthis) said Monday the organization was developing major plans for a strike on Israel.In an interview with Newsweek, Ansar Allah Deputy Information Secretary Nasreddin Amer declined to disclose details of the group's participation in the upcoming attack but said that "major plans" were being developed. Ali Al-Qahoum, a member of the Ansar Allah political bureau, told Sputnik Sunday that the retaliatory strike on Israel for the killings of Palestinian and Lebanese resistance movement commanders would come from all directions. On Wednesday the Palestinian group Hamas said its political leader Ismail Haniyeh had been assassinated in his guesthouse in Tehran where he had arrived to attend the inauguration of the new Iranian president. The group blamed Israel and the United States for Haniyeh's death and said the attack would not go unanswered. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240805/was-israeli-escalation-in-middle-east-pre-planned-1119652590.html palestine 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 houthis strike israel, houthis israel plans, houthis retaliatory strike, houthis axis of resistance https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/memorial-ceremony-for-nuclear-bombing-victims-begins-in-hiroshima-1119653126.html Memorial Ceremony for Nuclear Bombing Victims Begins in Hiroshima Memorial Ceremony for Nuclear Bombing Victims Begins in Hiroshima Sputnik International A memorial ceremony for nuclear bombing victims began in the Peace Park in Hiroshima, the city that was the first in the world to experience the horror of the use of nuclear weapons, on the 79th anniversary of the tragedy. 2024-08-06T01:40+0000 2024-08-06T01:40+0000 2024-08-06T01:40+0000 world newsfeed fumio kishida kazumi matsui hiroshima nagasaki japan https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/08/09/1112481412_0:68:3000:1756_1920x0_80_0_0_e52097c279b1a76513dd8e229257f896.jpg TOKYO (Sputnik) - A memorial ceremony for nuclear bombing victims began in the Peace Park in Hiroshima, the city that was the first in the world to experience the horror of the use of nuclear weapons, on the 79th anniversary of the tragedy.The ceremony is traditionally broadcast live on the city hall website as well as on major TV channels and on the Internet. It begins at 8:00 (23:00 GMT on Monday) with the laying of lists of those killed in the atomic bombing and its consequences at the monument. This year, another 5,079 names were added to the list of 344,000. The Peace Park, where the ceremony is held annually, is located in the epicenter of the bombing on August 6, 1945 where the force of the bomb vaporized the bodies of its victims. In the park there is a mass grave in the form of a hill with a Buddhist pagoda on top, where the ashes of 70,000 unidentified victims of the tragedy rest. On the monument in the Peace Park, next to which the funeral ceremony is taking place, it is written: "Sleep peacefully, this mistake will not be repeated again."The ceremony is attended by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, members of the government, parliamentarians, and representatives of diplomatic missions of more than 109 countries. This year, for the third time, representatives of the diplomatic missions of Russia and Belarus were not invited to the ceremony. Meanwhile representatives of Palestine and Israel received an invitation. After laying flowers at exactly 8:15 the time when the atomic bomb exploded over Hiroshima a minute of silence is declared. Then the mayor of the city, Kazumi Matsui, makes a declaration of peace, and after that, white doves are released into the sky as a symbol of peace on Earth. The ceremony traditionally features schoolchildren from the city taking a peace oath, as well as representatives of the bombing survivors. In August 1945 American pilots dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The atomic explosion and its consequences killed 140,000 people out of a population of 350,000 in Hiroshima, and 74,000 in Nagasaki. The vast majority of victims of the atomic bombing were civilians. On the anniversary of the tragic events August 6 and 9 "Peace Ceremonies" are held annually in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The area of the epicenter now houses a memorial Peace Park and a museum that contains documents and exhibits related to the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. There are audio guides in the languages of all countries that possess atomic weapons. The laconic exhibits recreate the horror of what happened, including a mangled tricycle and rice in an iron lunchbox charred to a coal-black color. But survivors say their memories hold far more terrifying images than what is on display in the museum. They believe that even these exhibits were selected with school excursions in mind: the most horrific evidence of the tragedy is kept in the archives so as not to harm the children's psyche. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240519/japans-hiroshima-nagasaki-lodge-protest-over-recent-us-subcritical-nuclear-test-1118529426.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230807/shadows-of-death-grim-reminders-of-atomic-bombing-in-hiroshima-1112434765.html hiroshima nagasaki japan 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 hiroshima remembrance ceremony, hiroshima memorial, hiroshima bombing tragedy, hiroshima memorial 2024 https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/nearly-half-of-brits-say-new-prime-minister-failing-to-handle-riots---poll-1119660664.html Nearly Half of Brits Say New Prime Minister Failing to Handle Riots - Poll Nearly Half of Brits Say New Prime Minister Failing to Handle Riots - Poll Sputnik International Almost half of Brits think that the new prime minister, Keir Starmer, is failing to deal with the riots that broke out following a stabbing attack in the city of Southport last week, a YouGov poll out Tuesday found. 2024-08-06T20:09+0000 2024-08-06T20:09+0000 2024-08-06T20:08+0000 world united kingdom (uk) keir starmer polling data riots yougov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/106549/85/1065498526_0:13:2428:1379_1920x0_80_0_0_0105edde3a5842182bdfb11be7718af9.jpg The survey conducted among 2,114 adults from August 5-6 found that 49% of respondents believed that Starmer was handling the situation badly, versus 31% who said he was dealing with the riots well. Seven in 10 respondents said the majority of rioters would evade punishment, while only 22% said they were confident that at least most of them would be held accountable. Far-right protesters rallied against the influx of migrants across the country after unconfirmed reports suggested the perpetrator in the deadly stabbing attack on a children's dance club in Southport was a refugee. The attacker was later identified as a Welsh-born boy of Rwandan descent. The attack occurred on July 29, resulting in the deaths of three children and injuries to several others. Police arrested the 17-year-old boy and charged him with three counts of murder and 10 counts of attempted murder. The attack is not being treated as an act of terrorism. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/political-and-media-elites-turned-uk-into-tinderbox-us-deep-state-may-be-stoking-fire-1119650226.html united kingdom (uk) 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 what prompted outrage in southport, who is keir starmer, public perception of uk riots The 40-story 1500 Louisiana building is part of the Chevron Corporation's downtown Houston campus. Katherine Feser/Houston Chronicle The 40-story 1500 Louisiana building is part of Chevron's downtown Houston campus. Katherine Feser/Houston Chronicle A man was shot and seriously injured Friday night after an argument broke out at a south Houston gas station. Tim Bristow S&P Global Vice Chairman, Daniel Yergin, left, discusses current issues facing the energy industry with Chevron Corporation Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Mike Wirth during a panel discussion at CERAWeek by S&P Global Tuesday, March 19, 2024 in Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer CEDAR PARK, TEXAS - AUGUST 02: A Chevron gas station is seen on August 02, 2024 in Cedar Park, Texas. Chevron has announced that the company will be relocating its corporate offices from San Ramon, California to Houston, Texas. Chevron is among a growing number of companies that are leaving California over a combination of increased operating costs and a refusal, or incapability, to adhere by the states strict regulatory laws. Brandon Bell/Getty Images Ashley Watt, owner of Antina Ranch near Monahans in West Texas stands outside Chevron headquarters in downtown Houston on Tuesday, May 2, 2023. Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer Yippee, another world-class polluter is moving its global headquarters to Houston, bringing a few hundred employees and a fossil fuel business plan unable to adapt to climate change. Chevrons relocation from San Ramon, Calif., is no surprise since most of the company has long resided in Greater Houston. CEO Mike Wirth chose low-regulation, zero-income-tax Texas to shore up profits. Outside of bragging rights, the move will have almost no impact on the local economy except, perhaps, to make Houston and Texas more dependent on the oil and gas industry that has caused so much heartache. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Yes, I know, Im supposed to celebrate the arrival of the 10th biggest U.S. corporation, according to Fortune magazine. But another behemoth from a shrinking industry struggling to cope with the energy transition is not something we should encourage. As I explained in a recent Tomlinsons Take newsletter, Texas has a long history of attracting neer-do-wells who want to escape their pasts. Last year, Californias Gov. Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta unveiled a plan to monitor Big Oil for potential price gouging. Global oil companies have raked in huge profits in recent years by limiting production and driving up prices, something they call capital discipline. Were making major progress with the Legislature to hold Big Oil accountable for fleecing Californians at the pump, Newsom said in a statement. What were asking for is simple: transparency and accountability to drive the oil industry out of the shadows. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In September 2023, Bonta filed a lawsuit alleging Chevron, four other global oil companies and the industrys leading lobbyist intentionally deceived investors and the public for decades about global warming. Climate change has transformed life on this planet and threatens to cause even greater personal misery and economic loss. California has spent tens of billions of dollars to adapt to climate change and address the damages climate change has caused so far, and the state will need to spend multiples of that in the years to come, the lawsuit alleges. Texas has been home to the highest concentration of Chevron employees for more than a decade, but Wirths predecessor, John Watson, was reportedly opposed to leaving California. The latest regulatory onslaught, though, was too much for the $273 billion corporation. Texas offers a business-friendly environment, a more affordable cost of living, and better proximity to key counterparts in the service sector, our industry and academia, the company said in a statement. Gov. Greg Abbotts new court system also adds to the business-friendly environment. In June 2023, the governor signed House Bill 19 and Senate Bill 1045 into law, which gave him authority to appoint district and appellate judges to handle commercial civil cases. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The House bills author, state Rep. Andrew Murr, R-Junction, said he was inspired by Texans for Lawsuit Reform to create a specialized business trial court to streamline resolutions of business disputes and by ensuring the court is staffed by qualified and skilled judges, ideally giving businesses confidence in Texas' legal system and encouraging them to incorporate and headquarter in Texas. Starting Sept. 1, Texas-based corporations must no longer worry about elected judges handling lawsuits against them; they can rely on Abbott to appoint judges to protect them. The rest of us, meanwhile, must cope with whatever yahoo makes it through the political parties primaries. Elon Musk is also taken with these new courts. After a judge in Delawares Court of Chancery blasted Teslas board of directors for approving a ridiculously rich compensation package, Musk announced he would move Tesla, SpaceX and Twitter to Texas. At least Musks companies are forward-looking. The oil and gas industry is all about slowing change and blocking accountability. Every serious scientist and government recognizes we must reduce carbon emissions to slow global warming and protect life as we know it. Consumers will need to stop burning so much oil and natural gas to produce energy, which means we will need a lot less of them. The oil and gas industry must shrink to prevent the worst of climate change. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Every time oil and gas profits go bust, Texans promise to diversify the economy. Yet, oil and gas contributed $26.3 billion in state and local tax revenue and royalties in 2023, the Texas Oil and Gas Association reported. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/russian-army-border-guards-thwart-ukrainian-militants-attempt-to-break-into-kursk-region--1119655964.html Russian Army, Border Guards Thwart Ukrainian Militants Attempt to Break into Kursk Region Russian Army, Border Guards Thwart Ukrainian Militants Attempt to Break into Kursk Region Sputnik International The Armed Forces of Ukraine tried to break into the territory of the Russian Kursk region, but the fighters of the FSB Border Guard Service and the Russian Armed Forces did not allow a breakthrough, the acting governor said. 2024-08-06T07:15+0000 2024-08-06T07:15+0000 2024-08-06T09:34+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ukraine crisis russian armed forces kursk terrorist state terrorist attack counter-terrorism terrorism https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/03/15/1117467805_0:161:3071:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_bb8e61e0312a30f203c0f8458a28a91c.jpg The Armed Forces of Ukraine tried to break into the territory of the Russian Kursk region, but the fighters of the FSB Border Guard Service and the Russian Armed Forces did not allow a breakthrough, acting governor Alexei Smirnov said.The head of the Kursk region urged everyone to remain vigilant and rely only on official information.Earlier, 13 aircraft-type UAVs over the territory of the Kursk region and nine Ukrainian UAVs over the territory of the Belgorod region were destroyed by air defense on duty. In addition, one of the drones attacked a passenger car at the Glushkovo station. Two local residents were injured, they were taken to a regional hospital. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240314/attacks-against-kursk-region-part-of-ukraines-futile-effort-to-disrupt-russias-election-1117338188.html 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 russia's special military operation, kursk attack, ukraine terrorism, ukraine terror attacks on russia, ukraine saboteurs, ukraine infiltrators https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/the-other-ukraine-political-movement-seeks-osce-meeting-on-zelenskys-illegitimacy-1119657242.html The Other Ukraine Political Movement Seeks OSCE Meeting on Zelensky's Illegitimacy The Other Ukraine Political Movement Seeks OSCE Meeting on Zelensky's Illegitimacy Sputnik International The political movement, The Other Ukraine, has appealed to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) to assess how Volodymyr Zelensky - no longer a legitimate president - has usurped power in the country, opposition Ukrainian politician and chairman of the movement's council, Viktor Medvedchuk, wrote in an article. 2024-08-06T13:52+0000 2024-08-06T13:52+0000 2024-08-06T13:52+0000 world viktor medvedchuk volodymyr zelensky ian borg ukraine osce organization for security and cooperation in europe council of europe https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/06/0a/1118896145_0:0:3000:1688_1920x0_80_0_0_307050d7aee61f4ca9acfa6a4c66c0f6.jpg The movement has sent its appeal to Head of the Council of Europe Office in Ukraine Maciej Janczak, OSCE Chairman-in-Office Ian Borg, and all foreign ambassadors of countries accredited in Ukraine. The Other Ukraine calls for condemning the violations of human rights and freedom in Ukraine, and appropriate measures to restore constitutional order in the country.The address to the ambassadors also calls to ensure the respect for human rights and fundamental freedom of the people and the media, the rule of law and democratic principles that affect global security, and to condemn the actions of Zelensky, who have usurped power and pursued the path of destruction of the Ukrainian people."We are convinced that the criminal regime of Zelensky should receive an objective and qualified assessment by the Council of Europe and diplomatic missions in Ukraine, for being a threat to peace, and for provoking a full-scale WW III," Medvedchuk said. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240222/ukrainian-opposition-politician-medvedchuk-lists-conditions-for-ukraine-conflict-cessation-1116920006.html ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International the other ukraine political movement, who is viktor medvedchuk, viktor medvedchuk statements, what did viktor medvedchuk do in ukraine, who was viktor medvedchuk in ukraine, viktor medvedchuk on ukraine crisis, viktor medvedchuk on ukraine conflict https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/ukraine-starts-talking-of-peace-as-its-battlefield-strategy-crumbles-1119660092.html Ukraine Starts Talking of Peace as Its Battlefield Strategy Crumbles Ukraine Starts Talking of Peace as Its Battlefield Strategy Crumbles Sputnik International Volodymyr Zelenskys recent declaration of intent to prepare a real foundation for ending the Ukrainian conflict is the product of Kievs Western backers realizing that their plan to fight Russia to the last Ukrainian is no longer feasible, says Ret. Col. Anatoliy Matviychuk, a Russian Armed Forces veteran and military analyst. 2024-08-06T19:07+0000 2024-08-06T19:07+0000 2024-08-06T19:07+0000 analysis volodymyr zelensky vladimir putin russia ukraine peace process https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/05/1c/1118660200_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_fb4a984674d6eb1e32e1c891d7878ba6.jpg Yet while Kiev may indeed push for a truce, it currently has no intention to settle the conflict permanently, he warns. As the Russian forces continue to break through Ukrainian defenses and push forward, the Ukrainian leadership now desperately wants to avoid the scenario where they end up watching the Russian flag being raised over Kiev.Thus, Matviychuk reasons, the best option for them may be to sign a peace treaty in order to recuperate, restore their military capability and perhaps the economic potential, secure NATOs support, revive their army and train new personnel, with all the ensuing consequences.According to Matviychuk, Kiev seeks an alternative to Zelenskys so-called peace formula which is, in fact, nothing more than an ultimatum to Russia and may even agree to make territorial concessions to Moscow, possibly recognizing Russias sovereignty over Kherson and Zaporozhye regions, as well as over Donetsk and Lugansk Peoples Republics.That said, the new peace formula would almost certainly be prepared by Kiev with a future revanche against Russia in mind, the analyst points out. In June, Russian President Vladimir Putin outlined a proposal which he says can finally resolve the Ukrainian conflict. Under the auspices of Putins initiative, Ukrainian forces are to be pulled out from Donetsk and Lugansk Peoples Republic, as well as from Kherson and Zaporozhye regions; all of these four regions are to be recognized as Russias territory. Ukraine is to become a neutral, non-nuclear state that is not part of any blocs, and all sanctions imposed by the US and its allies on Russia are to be removed. While both Kiev and its Western sponsors rejected Russias proposal, Putin deemed their reaction predictable but suggested that this nihilism cannot continue forever. The Russian president noted that his proposal remains on the table but it is up to other interested parties to decide when to begin negotiations.Zelenskys Motion for Peace Talks Spurred by Fear of a Civil War in UkraineThe Ukrainian head's sudden call to lay the groundwork for ending the Ukrainian conflict comes as Ukraine tethers on the brink of a massive social upheaval, notes Russian military analyst Anatoly Matviychuk.There are not just the radicals who oppose Zelensky virtually all of Ukraines population is against Zelensky, Matviychuk says, pointing at a growing number of Ukrainian military recruitment centers being torched by the locals in response to Kievs brutal press-ganging tactics. According to him, Zelenskys Western handlers have likely arrived at the same conclusions and advised him to sue for peace in order for Zelensky to keep power and stay alive. Matviychuk also suggests that the current crisis in the Middle East also does not do any favors to Ukraine as Kievs Western sponsors now direct all of their resources towards the Middle Eastern theater. No handouts for Ukraine are to be expected anytime soon, I think, even until the elections, he says, referring to the upcoming presidential election in the US. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240804/russia-destroys-warehouse-with-ukrainian-armys-equipment-1119632935.html russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International ukraine russia peace negotiations, ukrainian conflict, ukraine civil war https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/us-backed-leader-to-take-over-bangladesh-1119661332.html US-Backed Leader to Take Over Bangladesh US-Backed Leader to Take Over Bangladesh Sputnik International Organizers of student protests had ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and stormed her residence on Monday as the country has fallen under military control. 2024-08-06T22:52+0000 2024-08-06T22:52+0000 2024-08-06T22:58+0000 analysis sheikh hasina dhaka bangladesh national endowment for democracy (ned) cia https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/08/05/1119646781_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_f1b08a7a89e689a27140bcccc4a7ab61.jpg Bangladeshi media reported Tuesday that the Nobel Prize-winning economist Muhammad Yunus has been appointed as Bangladeshs transitional leader following mass protests which forced the former prime minister to resign and flee. Organizers of student protests had ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and stormed her residence Monday as the country has fallen under military control.Hasina had been the longest serving female prime minister in the world, having served from 2009 until now and previously from 1996 to 2001. According to British media Hasinas term showed success in delivering developmental and economic growth, but critics claim the wealthy benefited disproportionately. Hasina was taken from Dhaka to India and will reportedly seek asylum abroad.KJ Noh, a scholar, journalist and analyst who specializes in the geopolitics of the Asia-Pacific, joined Sputnik's Political Misfits Tuesday to discuss Yunus sudden rise to power.Noh added that the US has voiced its opinions publicly regarding the political system in Bangladesh. In early January of this year the US said Bangladeshs election was not free or fair after Hasina won her fifth term.Yunus [has] never had any electoral success or really any experience as a political leader. He's just been essentially a banker, an economist and a professor. So the call for him to lead the interim government is already highly suspect, but it starts to take on another dimension when you realize that Yunus is a US favorite, Noh explained.According to the US State Department Yunus was offered a Fulbright scholarship to study in the US in 1965. He then received his PhD in economics from Vanderbilt University in the US state of Tennessee through its graduate program in Economic Development (GPED) in 1971. In 2006 he and his colleague received the Nobel Peace Prize for efforts through microcredit to create economic and social development from below. [sic]And this is why the ruling imperial neoliberal class love him. You know, he was named and described favorably in WikiLeaks documents. You can see that the US consul general is [seeking] him out for potential. And, now it seems like his time has come. He's come of age. So I think he's definitely the favorite. It's very strange that these students who are supposed to have Islamist propensities are asking for Mr. Microfinance, he added. Because, remember [...] microfinance is not halal. You know, it's usury.President Mohammed Shahabuddin has dissolved Parliament by the deadline demanded by protestors. At least 99 people were killed in protests between Monday and Tuesday, a US news outlet reported. The estimated death toll now stands at over 400 following the violent protests. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240805/whats-behind-bangladesh-unrest-which-triggered-pm-sheikh-hasinas-resignation-1119645677.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230620/why-bangladesh-seeks-to-become-a-brics-member-1111329624.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240731/oas-fails-to-adopt-resolution-pressing-venezuela-to-be-transparent-with-election-results-1119588517.html dhaka bangladesh Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg 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 Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg bangladesh, protests, political protests, sheikh hasina, muhammad yunus https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/us-ready-to-take-action-over-asad-airbase-attack-if-iraq-fails-to-respond---state-dept-1119661030.html US Ready to Take Action Over Asad Airbase Attack if Iraq Fails to Respond - State Dept US Ready to Take Action Over Asad Airbase Attack if Iraq Fails to Respond - State Dept Sputnik International The US expects Iraq to take action against those responsible for the attack on Al Asad airbase, but is prepared to take its own measures if Baghdad does not respond appropriately, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said. 2024-08-06T21:25+0000 2024-08-06T21:25+0000 2024-08-06T21:24+0000 world us us state department matthew miller iraq baghdad us forces airbase https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107797/18/1077971866_0:169:3043:1880_1920x0_80_0_0_0b5a5a920f8af5104593c4851f4a9ec0.jpg "When actions happen on Iraqi soil, we look first to the government of Iraq to take action," Miller said on Tuesday, adding that the US troops are in the country at the invitation of Baghdad. Five US troops and two US contractors were injured in a rocket attack on Al Asad Airbase in Iraq earlier this week but they are all in stable condition, a US defense official said in a statement to Sputnik on Tuesday. A post-strike assessment of the rocket attack is still ongoing, the official added. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant on Tuesday called the attack on the US airbase in Iraq, where US troops were stationed, a "dangerous escalation," blaming Iran and its allied Shiite militia, the Pentagon said in a statement. iraq baghdad 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 what happened at al asad airbase, who struck al asad airbase, tensions in the middle east, us response to strikes in mideast Dresden Raceway wrapped up the 2024 season on Monday (Aug. 5) afternoon and the aptly named Wrap And A Hooey captured the featured Preferred 3 Handicap Trot. Garrett Rooney took the Greg Price-trained gelding to the gate in the featured $6,000 class in post three. As the wings drew away, Wrap And A Hooey sprung forward and into the lead. He handled the timer with splits in :29.1, :59.4, and 1:30.3. Without facing a challenge but the timer itself, Wrap And A Hooey wrapped up his mile with a :29.4 panel, winning by three lengths in 2:00.2. Zack To The Max (Andy Moore) was second and Hot Fudge Sundae (Alfred Carroll) finished third. Wrap And A Hooey (Dontyouforgetit - Flanery Hall) is owned by Price in partnership with Dominic De Santis and Tom Jacobs. The eight-year-old gelding won his second race of the year in six starts and his 26th career tally from 112 starts. He pushed his lifetime sum to $151,396. He returned $8.30 to win. The 2024 Driver of the Year title was earned by Garrett Rooney, who added a triple on the Monday card to tally 36 winners in the meet. His total purse earnings calculated over $110,000. Nicholas Steward finished second with 19 wins after a triple on the card. Andy Moore and Robert Doyle tied for third with nine wins each. Cameron McQueen topped the training standings at Dresden Raceway for the 2024 meet, winning half of his starts and yielding $46,656. The London, Ont. resident had 18 wins at the Dresden oval, resulting in a record of 18-12-2 in 36 starts and earning him the 2024 Trainer of the Year title. William Hamm finished second in the standings with eight wins while Angela Carroll completed the top three trainers with five wins. (Cameron McQueen and Garrett Rooney) Larjon Levi ($2.10) won the lone Prospect Series division on the card as sophomore pacing colts went to the gate in the fourth leg of the series. Garrett Rooney piloted the Patrick Bissett student on a gate-to-wire journey to a 4-3/4 length victory in 2:03. Race eight was declared a no contest after Century J Rock (Nick Steward) stumbled just after the start and pulled up lame according to AGCO judges. Drew The Dragon (Scott Wray) drove up on Century J Rock but got around him safely. Century J Rock was unable to exit the track, at which point the track's lights and sirens were activated and drivers pulled up. Century J Rock was taken to the Ontario Vet College for diagnostics, while Drew The Dragon was put on the short term vet list for minor injuries. Both drivers were unharmed and good to drive for the remainder of the card. To view Monday's harness racing results, click the following link: Monday Results - Dresden Raceway. (Standardbred Canada) Ruleen Ruth (McCallum) Lilley of Dutton, Ont. passed peacefully at her home surrounded by her family on Aug. 4, 2024 in her 64th year. Lovingly remembered by her husband of 42 years, Jeffery Malcolm Lilley; sons Alex and Gerald; and grandchildren Coral, Jate, Sadie and Connor Lilley. Predeceased by her mother Margaret Jane (Campbell) McCallum and her father Alexander Bruce McCallum. Fondly remembered by her sisters Marion (Jim) Rose, Nancy (Dave) Gowan, Jennifer McCallum and Catherine McCallum (Pat Aarts); and many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends. Ruleen and her four sisters grew up on a farm in an era where sons were most farmers' desired offspring. However, their parents never made them feel, as girls, they were anything less. They taught them they could achieve any goal they desired. Their father was often heard to say, "Five of a kind is the best hand you can be dealt." The girls were given responsibilities early: gathering eggs, feeding livestock, baling hay, cutting grass and all the other duties farm life involves. 4-H was a big part of Ruleens youth. She started working at the Standardbred horse farm called Mac Lilley Farms in September 1981. She came home from her first day at work and announced to her sisters, "I think I just met my husband today," smitten by the handsome red-headed Jeff Lilley. Jeff and Ruleen married in May of 1982 and have been happily married ever since. Ruleen, after being raised with sisters, got quite the eye opener when she had her two sons, Alex and Gerald. Her life became all about squirt guns, b b guns, fishing, horses, motor bikes and pretty much anything that went fast enough to set your hair on fire. Boys were different, but so loved. Ruleen and Jeffs early careers were filled by training horses and racing around North America. They travelled as far west as Edmonton, as far east as P.E.I., and as far south as Georgia. Life was a whirlwind. They later took on the responsibilities of the breeding end of the business. Ruleen was a director for Standardbred Canada and the first female director and chair of West Elgin Mutual Insurance Company. Ruleens biggest joy came by promoting her community, farm and horses. Highlights would be hosting many open houses, barn dances and especially the RCMP Musical Ride in 2022 and creating the comedic play called, The Dunwich Scotch (celebrating Canads 150 anniversary by showcasing local history). Ruleen will always consider her biggest accomplishments were her family. A celebration of life was held before her death and a private ceremony will be held by her family. If you feel the urge to do something as a remembrance for Ruleen, please plant a tree or give a donation to a charity of your choice. Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Ruleen Lilley. Scottsbluff voters will consider ballot measures in November as they weigh renewal of the citys LB 840 plan and a tax that helps fund the economic development program. At the councils July 15, council members tabled consideration of a resolution that outlined the ballot initiatives for the citys LB 840 plan and renewal of a 1.5% sales tax. One of the members of a committee taxed with promoting the plan, Charles Lieske, expressed some concern that voters might be confused by wording of the ballot initiatives. The citys current economic development plan and its city sales and use tax of 1.5% expires on Oct. 1, 2025, unless renewed by voters. A portion of that sales tax 1/4 of one percent or 1/6 of the total sales and use tax is used to fund the LB 840 program that provides grants and loans to new or expanding businesses in the community and surrounding area. During Mondays council meeting, Sharaya Toof, economic development director for the city of Scottsbluff, outlined to the council that the members of the committee and the citys attorney reviewed the language. The committee and attorney went through the measures line by line to make sure that it follows state statute. She noted that a change to add the word renew to Proposition 1 was added to make that very clear that this is not a new tax, and its something that we have had before, and its just about continuing and renewing both the citys sales tax and the economic development plan. In Proposition No. 1, voters will cast a vote for renewal of the 1.5% sales tax, opting for renewal with a Yes vote or No, against the continuation of the sales and use tax. In Proposition No. 2, voters will consider whether to renew, continue and amend the citys economic development program. The ballot measure outlines that the program appropriates $1.35 million from local sources of revenue, i.e. the sales and use tax, per fiscal year. The plan would be in place until Oct. 1, 2035, if voters approve the plan by voting Yes to continue it. A vote of no would be against continuing the program. Toof and councilman Matt Salomon both said that they thought the changes made the propositions more clear and that the sales tax was up for renewal. The committee has also been working with the Scottsbluff-Gering United Chamber of Commerce and Twin Cities Development, Toof said, including receiving assistance with creation of a website for promotion of the sales tax and the economic development plan. A website for promoting the two ballot measures is now available, renewthetwo.com. Mayor Jeanne McKerrigan, Salomon and councilman Jordan Colwell all voted to approve the resolution to put the measures before voters. Councilmembers Angela Scanlan and Betsy Vidlak werent in attendance of Mondays meeting. In other key action during Mondays council meeting, the council: Forwarded a positive recommendation to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission for a liquor license application by Chris Hayward, who is opening the Broadway Bluffs Bar & Arcade. Hayward said that the business plans to only serve beer and wine, not hard liquor, and that all persons under age 35 would be carded at the establishment. All servers will also participate in server training provided by the state and regular refreshers done by the business. Approved expanding the residency requirement for firefighters with the City of Scottsbluff. Firefighters shall live within a 30-mile radius from the City of Scottsbluff and no more than 45 minutes from the fire station. The residency requirement had been 15 miles and Scottsbluff Fire Chief Tom Schingle said that opening up the residency requirement would open up its candidate pool for new firefighters. The Scottsbluff Police Department made similar changes to its residency requirement, which Scottsbluff City Manager Kevin Spencer, who also serves as police chief, said did have the desired effect of opening up its pool of candidates and allowed the department to hire a new officer who lived within updated residency area. Joey Guerra is the music critic for the Houston Chronicle. He also covers various aspects of pop culture. He has reviewed hundreds of concerts and interviewed hundreds of celebrities, from Taylor Swift to Dolly Parton to Beyonce. Hes appeared as a regular correspondent on Fox26 and was head judge and director of the Pride Superstar singing competition for a decade. He has been named journalist of the year multiple times by both OutSmart Magazine and the FACE Awards. He also covers various aspects of pop culture, including the local drag scene and "RuPaul's Drag Race." 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 Google's defeat in an antitrust suit filed by the Justice Department has cast a shadow over partner Apple Inc., which generates roughly $20 billion a year in payments from the internet search giant. Apple shares slipped almost 5% on August 5 after a judge ruled that Google's payments to device makersmade in return for its search engine getting preferential placementwere illegal. The decision handed a win to the Justice Department in its first major antitrust case against Big Tech in more than two decades. For Apple, the move jeopardizes a revenue stream that has helped bolster sales in recent years. But the iPhone maker has already been moving away from its dependence on traditional internet searches. With Apple revamping its Siri digital assistant to handle queries more deftlyand integrating AI chatbots into its softwareit's betting that AI technology will eventually take over. That underlines the government's struggle with the technology industry: It moves so quickly that by the time a serious reckoning comes, the industry is already restructuring itself around the next innovation. Apple is weaving OpenAI's ChatGPT capabilities into its software and expects to do the same with Google's Gemini chatbot. Over time, the company could steer consumers toward AI and Siri instead of the web browser. That would give Apple the opportunity to reach new, nonexclusive agreements with AI providersincluding Googlethat don't run afoul of the U.S. government. Still, it will likely take many years for Apple to make serious money from AI. For Google, the decision is a bit of a mixed blessing, given the hefty amounts that it's paid Apple to make its search engine the default option. "In the short term, it actually could save them a lot of money," said Ari Paparo, an advertising entrepreneur who used to work at Google. Monday's decision didn't mandate the ways Google could satisfy the government, but Judge Amit Mehta scheduled a hearing next month to discuss timing of a separate trial on that topic. It's unlikely that the court could force Apple to drop Google as a search partner altogether as one of the remedies, but it could potentially change the agreement's termsand level the playing field. One theoretical scenario would be Apple presenting different search engine options to consumers when they turn on their new device for the first time. Such a system could work similarly to a menu on Apple devices in the European Union that presents a choice of web browsers. With that approach, Google would still remain an option, but customers could also pick alternatives such as Microsoft Bing or DuckDuckGo. Currently, users need to delve into the iPhone settings app to change their default search engine. In his decision, Mehta said that the lucrative Google agreement has disincentivized Apple from launching its search engine "when it otherwise has built the capacity to do so." John Giannandrea, an ex-Google executive who oversees AI at Apple, has a search team working for him. But they've been more focused on search capabilities within Apple's software, rather than the ability to do Google-style web queries. Even so, Apple's interface is set to change in the coming months. The company will be rolling out Apple Intelligence, its new suite of artificial intelligence features, which could eventually transform the way people use their iPhones and other devices. The changes include a new "Type to Siri" approach that makes it easier to use the virtual assistant without having to speak to it. That will allow users to send queries to AI engines from anywhere on the iPhone, iPad or Mac operating systems. 2024 Bloomberg L.P. 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: A two-day hearing is set to investigate what happened on a January 5 Alaska Airlines flight during which a panel on the fuselage of a 737 MAX blew out mid-flight. US transportation investigators pressed officials from Boeing and a top supplier on Tuesday over manufacturing lapses that led to a near-catastrophic January incident on a 737 MAX that necessitated an emergency landing. In the two-day hearing, which concludes Wednesday, the National Transportation Safety Board aims to pinpoint what went wrong and craft recommendations after a fuselage panel known as a door-plug suddenly came off mid-flight on an Alaska Airlines plane. Video of the episode showed oxygen masks hanging in front of a gaping hole in the plane after the panel blew out shortly after takeoff, leaving passengers exposed to open air at an altitude of about 16,000 feet. The NTSB has previously said that four bolts securing the panel were missing, according to preliminary findings. After morning questions that touched on employee training and policies around change orders, an afternoon session dug into the details on repair work performed on the door-plug that was not properly documented. When the fuselage was shipped by train to Boeing's Renton, Washington, facility on August 31, 2023, from supplier Spirit AeroSystems, evidence showed that the bolts were in place, NTSB investigator in charge John Lovell said at the outset of Tuesday's session. Boeing staff performed work on the part beginning early in the morning of September 18 until late in the evening of September 19 before the jet was delivered to Alaska Airlines, Lovell said. The work was needed after Boeing staff determined rivets were not in conformance with standards. Lovell said that the rivets were replaced under a non-conformance order, with the work conducted by Spirit personnel at Boeing's Renton factory. But while Spirit personnel performed the work on the rivets, Spirit was not authorized to remove or reinstall the door plug and would not have done so, Spirit's Michael Riney testified. When the door plug was removed to replace the rivets, workers failed to file the documentation to make the change on the door plug, according to Elizabeth Lund, senior vice president for quality at Boeing. As a result, there was also no documentation for when the door plug was reinstalled. Lund told the panel that Boeing door staff would have been authorized to open or close the door plug. Lund told the panel that the "primary" place to identify the lapse would have been through such documentation, "open paperwork, which we don't believe existed." NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy has sharply criticized Boeing's responsiveness during the probe. Summing up this issue later, NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy asked Lund late Tuesday afternoon, "We do not know specifically when this door plug ... We do not know by whom." "Correct," Lund responded. Boeing sanctioned The two-day hearing continues Wednesday, with sessions involving Boeing's quality management and oversight by the Federal Aviation Administration. Homendy said the hearing should focus on unanswered questions and Boeing's operations before the Alaska Airlines incident rather than steps Boeing has taken in the aftermath. "This is not a PR campaign for Boeing," said NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy. "What I want to know, what we want to know, is what happened" in the period before January 5. Lund came under fire from the NTSB after discussing the probe in a Boeing-hosted tour of Renton, with the agency sanctioning Boeing for sharing details about an ongoing probe that were not supposed to be discussed publicly. As a result, the NTSB said it is blocking Boeing from reviewing information gathered in its investigation and will not permit the company to ask questions of other witnesses at the hearing. Homendy in March had also sharply criticized Boeing's handling of the probe, telling a congressional hearing the company was dragging its feet in providing key documentation and witnesses involved in working on the plane. Tuesday's hearing comes as Boeing faces heavy scrutiny from regulators following the January incident and in the wake of congressional testimony from whistleblowers who say the company punishes workers who raise safety issues while moving to cover up problems. Lund acknowledged the need for better communications and the simplification of some procedures at Boeing, but stressed that the company was committed to improving. Lund recounted a quality "stand down" in which some 70,000 workers took an eight-hour work day to review safety policies. The company took 30,000 recommendations of employee feedback on "how we can improve quality or product safety." But prior to the January 5 incident Boeing's "training was in really bad shape," said Lloyd Catlin, of the International Association of Machinists. "There has been changes, but I don't know that it is enough." 2024 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A Delta Air Lines jet leaves the gate, July 19, 2024, at Logan International Airport in Boston. Delta CEO Ed Bastian says the airline is facing $500 million in costs for the global technology breakdown that happened earlier this month. Credit: AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, File Cybersecurity software company CrowdStrike is disputing Delta Air Lines over who is to blame for damage that the airline suffered after a global technology outage. Delta's CEO has threatened to sue CrowdStrike for what he said was $500 million in lost revenue and extra costs related to thousands of canceled flights. A lawyer for CrowdStrike says, however, that the company's liability should be less than $10 million. Michael Carlinsky said in a letter Sunday to Delta lawyer David Boies that the airline's threatened lawsuit "has contributed to a misleading narrative that CrowdStrike is responsible for Delta's IT decisions and response to the outage." The CrowdStrike lawyer questioned why other airlines recovered from the outage much more quickly. He said the software company took responsibility for its actions "while Delta did not." A faulty software update from CrowdStrike to more than 8 million computers using Microsoft Windows disrupted airlines, banks, retailers and other businesses on July 19. Delta CEO Ed Bastian raised the threat of a lawsuit last week on CNBC. He said Delta was more dependent on Microsoft Windows than other airlines. The Atlanta-based airline hired Boies' law firm to handle the matter. Passengers wait in line for assistance at the Delta Terminal, July 19, 2024, at Logan International Airport in Boston. Delta CEO Ed Bastian says the airline is facing $500 million in costs for the global technology breakdown that happened earlier this month. Credit: AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, File Bastian said CrowdStrike did not offer to help Delta beyond offering free consulting advice. CrowdStrike said its CEO, George Kurtz, personally contacted Bastian to offer help, but got no response. The U.S. Department of Transportation is investigating why Delta took longer to recover than other airlines. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said his department would also look into complaints about Delta's customer service, including long waits for help and reports that unaccompanied minors were stranded at airports. 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Google has been found guilty of violating antitrust law. Northeastern University researchers looked at Google's own argumentand still found the tech giant dominates nearly every part of the search market. In what could be the most significant ruling in antitrust law of the modern era, a federal judge ruled Monday that Google illegally used its monopoly in online search to squash competition and hurt innovation. During the trial, the Justice Department argued that Google's dominance of the search market hurt the market at large. Google pursued a different tactic, arguing that it doesn't just compete with other search engines like Bing, it competes with anything that has a search function, from Amazon to Travelocity. With all that competition, how could Google have a dominant market position? Researchers at Northeastern University decided to answer that question. "We went, 'We're going to take Google at their word and say maybe they do compete against everybody. What does that actually look like?'" says Christo Wilson, a professor of computer science at Northeastern. "Guess what? It still looks like Google's world." Christo Wilson, a professor in the Khoury College of Computer Sciences at Northeastern University, found that even by Googles own standards it dominates the search market. Credit: Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University In a recently published study in the Proceedings of the International AAAI Conference on Web and Social Media, the researchers recruited a sample of U.S. residents and gave them a browser extension that allowed them to see everything the study participants did in their browser. By observing where the participants went online every time they opened their browser, the researchers were able to break down online searches into 30 primary categories. Even with all the additional competition Google faced, it still received more than 50% of searches in 21 out of 30 categories, which included navigation, shopping, real estate, health and wellness, dining and travel. The areas where Google wasn't the dominant search option included categories like real estate, where Zillow dominated, and shopping, where Amazon reigned supreme. "Even if you take Google at their word that they face competition from all verticals, they still appear to be dominant in the market," Wilson says. "They don't win 100% of the time, but they win a majority of the time." It doesn't help that Google has methodically made itself the default search option, even on other browsers. It was revealed during the antitrust trial that Google spent $26.3 billion in 2021 to become the default search engine on two other major browsers, Safari and Firefox. That fact played a huge role in the ruling against Google that could reshape the tech industry, Judge Amit P. Mehta of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia said in his ruling. "If that's what it takes for somebody to dislodge Google as the default search engine, wouldn't the folks that wrote the Sherman [Antitrust] Act be concerned about it?" Mehta said. Additionally, in 24 out of the top 30 search categories, people started their search on Google. Wilson says it speaks to Google's "gatekeeping power," which goes beyond just where you start searching for shoes or plane tickets. In a previous study, Wilson showed Google's ability to steer user behavior through the design of its search page. "People are starting at Google, and yeah, you might go on to do a search on Amazon, but you started at Google and that gives them enormous power to shape what you're shown and ultimately where you go," Wilson says. "If they want you to have terminal searching and they just show you answers from [Google AI chatbot] Gemini, they can push that and dramatically alter peoples' behavior at very large scales very quickly." The researchers' findings come at a time when not just Google but Meta, Amazon and Apple, the biggest tech companies in the world, are facing a series of landmark antitrust cases. The ruling against Google isn't necessarily an indication of the futureeach case is differentbut Wilson says where there is monopoly, there are questions worth asking. "I will caveat all this by saying that having monopoly power is not necessarily anticompetitive," Wilson says. "Monopoly by itself is not illegal in this country, but it certainly raises questions." More information: Desheng Hu et al, Market or Markets? Investigating Google Search's Market Shares under Vertical Segmentation, Proceedings of the International AAAI Conference on Web and Social Media (2024). DOI: 10.1609/icwsm.v18i1.31340 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: Pareto front from multi-objective optimization. Credit: APL Machine Learning (2024). DOI: 10.1063/5.0187208. APL Machine Learning (2024). DOI: 10.1063/5.0187208 As the most abundant energy source on earth, solar energy is a promising alternative in the pivot toward clean energy. However, current commercial solar cells are only 20% efficient in converting light into usable energy. Tandem solar cells, in which multiple solar cells are stacked on top of each other, are potentially more efficient. Each cell layer is sensitive to different wavelengths of light, enabling the capture of energy that might otherwise be lost. The top layer of the tandem solar cell typically allows certain bands of light energy to pass through and be captured by the bottom layer. Fabricating the top layer with a type of material known as perovskite has been found to improve solar cell efficiency far beyond the current 20% threshold. Dr. Xue Hansong from the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) explains that perovskite solar cells "can be tailored to have outstanding optoelectronic properties, including a high absorption coefficient, high defect tolerance, and a tunable bandgap." These cells can be challenging to design and fabricate. Maximizing their efficiency often comes at the price of increasing material costs. To design perovskite solar cells that balance efficiency with cost-effectiveness, the Pareto front optimization method is used, whereby optimal solutions are identified based on their trade-offs between the two parameters of efficiency and cost. But this method can be extremely time-consuming due to the sheer complexity of the calculations involved. To address this, Dr. Xue collaborated with researchers from the National University of Singapore and the University of Toronto to incorporate machine learning in the Pareto front optimization method. Specifically, the team turned to neural network learning for their study published in the journal APL Machine Learning, titled "Exploring the optimal design space of transparent perovskite solar cells for four-terminal tandem applications through Pareto front optimization". Dr. Xue and his team first generated a set of data using an opto-electronic-electric model to calculate the efficiencies for different configurations of four-terminal (4T) perovskite copper indium selenide tandem solar cells. With this data, they then trained a neural network so that it could quickly simulate and predict the efficiency of any 4T tandem solar cell under various parameters. Using the neural network to predict efficiency vastly reduced the time needed to perform Pareto front optimization. "The neural network took only 11 hours to predict the efficiencies of 3,500 different devices. Performing the same simulation with the original opto-electronic-electric model would have taken approximately six months," said Dr. Xue. With the time saved, the team could quickly analyze different simulations and determine the optimal configuration of a 4T tandem solar cell that maximizes efficiency at minimal cost. In fact, the optimal configuration predicted by the neural network exhibited an increased efficiency of 30.4% while also reducing material costs by 50%. Comparing this design with existing experimental ones also provided the researchers with new insights. "The predicted optimal cells show thinner front contact electrodes, charge-carrier transport layers, and back contact electrodes," said Dr. Xue. The implications of this finding cannot be understatedthey pointed at charge-carrier transport possibly being a critical factor in optimizing perovskite tandem cells. For Dr. Xue, the success of the novel neural network model is only just the beginning in improving solar cell efficiency. Through the use of design, AI and technology, the fabrication of solar cells can become more efficient, cost-effective, and versatile, contributing significantly to the advancement of renewable energy solutions. The team is also looking to build onto their neural network by integrating diverse material data. These include the use of various materials for the charge-carrier transport layer as well as perovskite compounds with different characteristics. There are also plans to expand their approach to a wider range of tandem device architectures, such as all-perovskite, perovskite-on-organic, and perovskite-on-silicon tandem solar cells. More information: Hu Quee Tan et al, Exploring the optimal design space of transparent perovskite solar cells for four-terminal tandem applications through Pareto front optimization, APL Machine Learning (2024). DOI: 10.1063/5.0187208 This July 24, 1969 photo shows flight controllers in the Mission Control Center celebrating the successful conclusion of the Apollo 11 lunar landing mission. Staff graphic; Photo by NASA When thinking about the origins of Johnson Space Center, the NASA hub located 25 miles southeast of downtown Houston, I think about a comment by criminal/philosopher Herbert McDunnough: Well this whole thing is just who knows who. Then over here, you have favoritism. But before we break down the wheeling and dealing, negotiations and handshakes that helped NASA land in Houston, lets dispatch with a bit of context. Though it took place half a world away, the launch of the Soviet satellite Sputnik in October 1957 fast-tracked the United States space program into existence. The U.S. launched the Explorer 1 satellite in 1958, the same year it began Project Mercury with the goal of manned spaceflight. Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin was first in space, launching April 12, 1961. Alan Shepard became the first American to reach space three weeks later. While Project Mercury was ongoing, plans were being made for a permanent space center to achieve a goal set out by President John F. Kennedy in 1961: putting a man on the moon before the end of the decade. Advertisement Article continues below this ad (24 July 1969) Mission Operations Control Room in the Mission Control Center of the Manned Spacecraft Center, showing the flight controllers celebrating the successful conclusion of the Apollo 11 lunar landing mission. NASA Glynn S. Lunney is shown in 1965 at his console in the Mission Control Center during an Apollo simulation exercise. NASA What qualities made Houston a good fit for the space center? A memo from James Webb, the second administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to President Kennedy, via Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson, set out eight essential criteria for the future home of the space center. Those included transportation, with a first-class all-weather commercial jet service airport, as well as water access to transport by barge large, cumbersome space vehicles. Proximity to the long-line telephone system was needed, as was industrial infrastructure. A culturally attractive community was also on the list for recruitment. And they wanted proximity to institutions of higher learning. A strong utility system, readily available water, space to grow and a mild, ice-free climate were also sought. So, Houston. But plenty of places in Florida, Louisiana and California offered these, too. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Finessing ensued. Finagling ensued. 08/02/1971 - Apollo test module on display for visitors at the Manned Space Center in Houston. Bill Thompson/Houston Chronicle Who got NASA to land in Houston? A small group of local political and power players worked together to make the space center happen here. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Congressman Albert Thomas, a Houstonian, confirmed in June 1961 that NASA was looking for a site for its Manned Spacecraft Center. As the chair of the House Appropriations Committee, Thomas had some sway with spending by federal government agencies and departments. He and Johnson wanted NASA based here. In August 1961, a NASA inspection team visited Houston, where they met with Thomas, Johnson (who was chair of the National Space Committee) and Kenneth Pitzer, president of Rice University. One month later, Webb announced plans for a $60 million center in the Houston area. What took place in the room where it happened? First we have to introduce one more player. George R. Brown was a successful Houston entrepreneur who also served as chair on the Rice University Council of Regents. With his help, Rice University acquired a 1,000-acre piece of land from Humble Oil. Rice donated that land to NASA. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Brown was something of a hub for the project, coordinating with his buddies who were employed in Washington, D.C. He and Johnson had worked together for decades at that point, dating back to when Johnson was an ambitious but fairly unknown Congressman. Brown was also old friends with Thomas; they were roommates at Rice. So the businessman, the congressman and the vice president formed a persuasive coalition that helped Houston check the criteria set up by Webbs memo. The interactivity didnt stop there. Brown & Root (Brown, as in George R.) assumed responsibility for the construction. 'HOUSTON WE HAVE A PROBLEM': Where did the saying come from and what does it mean? Work on the Manned Spacecraft Center began in the spring of 1962 on the land donated by Rice. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In September 1963, the Manned Spacecraft Center opened. That same year, Rice started the countrys first Department of Space Science. The Mission Control Center served as the operations center for every American human space mission from Gemini IV. The Apollo program, which spanned 1968 to 1972, achieved Kennedys mission to put a person on the moon. Johnson died in January 1973. A month later, the U.S. Senate voted to change the name from the Manned Spacecraft Center to the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center. 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: Around 40 French museums were hit by a ransomware attack, a police source told AFP. The Grand Palais, which is hosting Olympic events in Paris, and around 40 other museums in France were victims of a ransomware attack at the weekend, police sources told AFP Monday. Cybercriminals targeted the system used to "centralize financial data" for brands located at the various institutions on Saturday night, the source said. The attackers had demanded a ransom and threatened to release financial data. France's national cybersecurity agency ANSSI confirmed that it had been alerted about an "incident", adding that the hacked systems were not involved in the Olympic games. The Grand Palais, which normally hosts major cultural exhibitions but is currently an Olympic venue for fencing and martial arts, confirmed it had been hit by a cyberattack but would not provide details. After initially being mentioned as a possible target by the police source, the world-renowned Louvre denied being hit by the hacking. According to the police source, a criminal investigation has been opened into attacks on data systems and for extortion by organized gangs. Ransomware generally involves hacking into computer systems and demanding money in exchange for unblocking them. 2024 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A two-day hearing is set to investigate what happened on a January 5 Alaska Airlines flight in which a panel on the fuselage of a 737 MAX blew out mid-flight. US investigators will on Tuesday open a two-day hearing into a near-catastrophic January incident on a Boeing 737 MAX operated by Alaska Airlines that required an emergency landing. Video of the episode showed oxygen masks hanging in front of a gaping airplane space from a panel that blew out shortly after takeoff, leaving passengers exposed to open air at an altitude of about 16,000 feet. The hearing in Washington aims "to determine the facts, circumstances, and probable cause of the transportation accident... and to make recommendations to improve transportation safety," said the National Transportation Safety Board, which is overseeing the probe. The plane soon went back to Portland where it safely landed, although there were eight minor injuries. The NTSB immediately launched a probe and after a month said four bolts securing the panel were missing, according to preliminary findings released February 6. The agency has collected written documents and photos showing that Boeing employees removed four bolts from these locations during an inspection at the Renton plant in Washington state prior to delivery of the aircraft last October. Over the course of two day-long sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday in Washington, the NTSB will hear from about 15 witnesses. Speakers include Elizabeth Lund, senior vice president for quality at Boeing, among other officials at the company, as well as officials from key supplier Spirit AeroSystems, regulator Federal Aviation Administration and the machinists union. The witness list does not include Alaska Airlines. Lund came under fire from the NTSB after providing a detailed summary of the incident in June to journalists touring the company's Renton plant. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy has sharply criticized Boeing's responsiveness during the probe. Boeing staff identified five "non-conforming" rivets in the fuselage after the arrived in Renton, but the issue "did not create a safety hazard," Lund told reporters. But when the fuselage panel, known as the door plug, was removed to replace the rivets, Boeing staff failed to file the documentation to make the change on the door plug, Lund said. "We believe that plug was opened without the correct paperwork," Lund told reporters. "There was a non-compliance to our processes at that point." She also said Boeing was focused on closing a "gap" over the lack of documentation and that determining who did the work "is the responsibility of the NTSB and that investigation is still going on." Boeing sanctioned After Lund's comments were published in June, the NTSB announced it was sanctioning the company for sharing details about an ongoing probe that were not supposed to be discussed publicly. Lund "released non-public investigative information and made unsubstantiated speculations about possible causes of the Jan. 5 door-plug blowout, which is directly at issue in the ongoing investigation," the NTSB said in a June 27 letter to Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun. Some of the information "was either inaccurate or unknown to the NTSB," the letter added. "This disregard of the federal regulations and rules governing NTSB investigations cannot be tolerated." As a result, the NTSB said it is blocking Boeing from reviewing information gathered in its investigation and will not permit the company to ask questions of other witnesses at the hearing. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy in March had also sharply criticized Boeing's handling of the probe, telling a congressional hearing the company was dragging its feet in providing key documentation and witnesses involved in working on the plane. Tuesday's hearing comes as Boeing faces heavy scrutiny from regulators following the January incident and in the wake of congressional testimony from whistleblowers who say the company punishes workers who raise safety issues while moving to cover up problems. 2024 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: High heat caused thermal expansion of the rails, buckling this section of railway. Credit: U.S. Department of Transportation Summer 2024's record heat is creating problems for transportation infrastructure, from roads to rails. New York's Third Avenue Bridge, which swings open for ship traffic on the Harlem River, was stuck for hours after its metal expanded in the heat and it couldn't close. Roads have buckled on hot days in several states, including Washington and Wisconsin. Amtrak warned passengers to prepare for heat-related problems hours before a daylong outage between New York and New Jersey; the risks to power lines and rails during high temperatures are a growing source of delays for the train system. It doesn't help that the worsening heat is hitting a U.S. infrastructure system that's already in trouble. The American Society of Civil Engineers gave U.S. infrastructure an overall grade of C- in its latest national Infrastructure Report Card, released in 2021. While there has been some improvementabout 7.5% of U.S. bridges were in poor condition, compared with over 12% a decade earliermany bridges are aging, making them difficult to maintain. Forty percent of the road system was considered in poor or mediocre condition, and maintenance costs have substantially increased. Firefighters try to cool down New York Citys Third Avenue Bridge after its metal expanded in the heat and the bridge couldnt close. Even relatively young bridges this one was partially rebuilt in 2004 can struggle in high heat. The rate at which a bridge or road deteriorates depends not only on the materials and construction methods used but also on the climate during the structure's life span. Extreme heat, in particular, significantly affects transportation infrastructure. As climate change progresses, the frequency and intensity of heat waves are expected to increase, exacerbating these issues. I lead the Smart Infrastructure and Testing Laboratory at the University of Texas at Arlington, where my team works on ways to better monitor the structural health of infrastructure. Here's why infrastructure struggles in the heatand how engineers are innovating to help extend its life. Buckling highways pose a hazard for drivers When a road is built, it is cut into segments to create space for the pavement to expand during high heat or to contract in the cold. Without that space, the pavement can buckle when the road material heats up. Buckling of concrete pavement has become a serious problem in several states. Pavement becomes vulnerable to buckling for a number of reasons. The roadway's design, the materials it is made out of, the climate when it was built and the weather during its lifetime can affect its life span, as can damage to the road and improper repairs. Extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation can cause significant damage to roadways and jeopardize the structural integrity of rail systems. Additionally, sea-level rise is accelerating coastal erosion that can undermine roads and rail lines. The deterioration of pavement leads to traffic delays and damaged vehicles. And, most critically, it can cause traffic accidents. Roads have been buckling across Wisconsin this summer. Hot rails can expand and also buckle Rail expansion is another significant concern, especially with continuous welded rails like the main lines that trains use. When temperatures rise, rails expand due to the heat. This expansion can create high pressure and tension within the rail material. Combined with the forces exerted by moving trains, this pressure can cause the tracks to buckle to the side and become misaligned. It is sometimes referred to as a "sun kink." Buckling rails are a serious safety hazard that can cause derailments. That's one of the reasons Amtrak slows its speed in extreme heat, often leading to schedule delays. Washington, D.C."s Metro cuts its trains speed to a maximum of 35 mph once rails reach a temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit (57 degrees Celsius). Predicting these thermal stresses can be challenging. Rail temperature measurements alone are not enough, because there are many unknown factors related to the track's structure and how it moves. This makes it difficult to accurately forecast how much the rails will expand or contract. A scan of a bridge roadway shows areas with weaknesses. Credit: Smart Infrastructure and Testing Laboratory/University of Texas, Arlington Engineers can reduce rail expansion risk by using heat-resistant materials, such as hypereutectoid rail steel and martensite rail steel, adjusting track design and ensuring timely repairs. To prevent roadways from buckling, engineers also have protective measures, such as using single-cut sawed joints filled with sealant to provide flexibility while keeping water out. They can also implement cold weather concreting practices that avoid pouring concrete during low temperatures or on cold bases, and they can use stronger and more durable concrete. Performing timely repairs when pavement cracks and becomes damaged can also help avoid buckling. Keeping infrastructure healthy Infrastructure health is similar to human health: If doctors detect problems such as tumors or cancer only in the later stages, it is often too late. Like human bodies, infrastructure needs to be maintained from the beginning to reduce costs and increase the potential for effective rehabilitation. One area my department works on is nondestructive evaluation methods for monitoring infrastructure without causing damage or requiring long road closures. Devices attached to a vehicle can quickly scan a roadway for weaknesses and defects. They act like mobile MRI machines. Credit: Suyun Paul Ham/University of Texas, Arlington, CC BY-ND We use mobile scanning systems that are almost like portable MRI machines to look for weakness or defects in bridges, roads and runways. We are also developing advanced sensors that use mechanical and magnetic field phenomena to assess the condition of infrastructure, and we are using artificial intelligence to spot problems in the materials. Infrastructure will face increasing challenges as the climate changes and roads, bridges and other infrastructure age. The large number of buckling roadways and other problems this summer highlight the urgent need for resilient infrastructure to stand up to the future. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been updated. College Station city staff confirmed Monday that the city settled a lawsuit with the owners of Post Oak Mall regarding alleged unpaid fees. Terms were not disclosed. The former Macys building, located 1508 Harvey Road, was purchased by the city of College Station in August 2022 for over $7 million. On Oct. 29, 2023, the company that owns Post Oak Mall, CBL & Associates Management, filed a lawsuit against the city of College Station, claiming the city had not paid $41,000 of its shared common area fees. College Station released a statement on Nov. 1 that said they could not pay for the shared space because, as a city government, they were legally barred from paying into a private corporation by the Texas constitution. The city also claimed that they were immune to such lawsuits under the Texas Tort Claims Act which limits the liability of municipalities. City officials previously told The Eagle that, before the old Macys building and parking lot were purchased, CBL had acknowledged this issue and told the city they would work on an alternate solution. The city said it would be willing to pay the maintenance fee for the Macys building but needed to follow state law and needed CBL to provide a cost breakdown, which was previously requested, or propose an alternative payment proposal. While there were previous discussions about collaborating with Texas A&M and turning the old Macys building into an esports facility, those plans are no longer underway, leaving the Macys building unused. The City of College Station has previously discussed finding another location for the Air Prime warehouse due to the amount of concerns from residents in neighborhoods near the current Amazon drone delivery facility at 400 Technology Parkway. Citizens have brought up the old Macys building as a possible future location for the facility now that the drones are able to cross highways. The City of College Station released a statement that said, "The City of College Station always intended to satisfy the financial obligation to maintain its property according to the law. The settlement was reached on amicable terms for the amount owed and future payments, ending any dispute with CBL about the law. Daniel Fuentes, 2, who is diagnosed with autism in his home on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024 in Cleveland. Daniels speech language pathologist was laid off from Texas Childrens Hospital on Tuesday as part of system-wide layoffs. Gonzales is concerned that the progress her son has made over the last year will be lost as they try to find another therapist. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Arizai Gonzales with her son, Daniel Fuentes, 2, who is diagnosed with autism in their home on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024 in Cleveland. Daniels speech language pathologist was laid off from Texas Childrens Hospital on Tuesday as part of system-wide layoffs. Gonzales is concerned that the progress her son has made over the last year will be lost as they try to find another therapist. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Arizai Gonzales with her son, Daniel Fuentes, 2, head back into their home on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024 in Cleveland. The family learned this morning, hours before their appointment, that Daniels speech language pathologist was laid off from Texas Childrens Hospital on Tuesday as part of system-wide layoffs. Gonzales is concerned that the progress her son has made over the last year will be lost as they try to find another therapist. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer One of the Texas Children's Hospital buildings is shown in the Texas Medical Center Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021 in Houston. Melissa Phillip, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer Texas Childrens Hospital said Tuesday it is laying off 5% of its workforce amid a series of financial challenges for the nations largest childrens hospital. The hospital declined to provide a specific number of employees being affected by layoffs, but Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources officer Linda Aldred said in an interview that Texas Childrens has approximately 20,000 employees across 120 locations in Houston, across Texas and around the world. A 5% reduction in that workforce would cut roughly 1,000 jobs. Multiple factors, including lower patient volumes in Houston and a two-week delay in the opening of the new Austin campus, contributed to the hospital reporting an operating income loss of nearly $200 million through the first six months of its current fiscal year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Aldred said the layoffs are the result of what she characterized as historic financial challenges within the health care industry. She said Texas Childrens took other measures before determining layoffs were necessary; for example, the hospital has reduced the size of its executive leadership team and plans to cut executives' compensation this year. This has been so challenging and so difficult for us to get here. We have been really thoughtful about it, Aldred said. We plan to communicate these changes (Tuesday), and we do not plan to have additional cuts or job eliminations. Aldred said Texas Children's does not anticipate the cuts will affect patient care. The layoffs come about one month after Fitch Ratings, one of the three major credit rating agencies, downgraded Texas Childrens bond rating to AA- from AA after the hospital reported operating income losses of $198.1 million through the first six months of fiscal year 2024. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Texas Childrens issued bonds to fund its growth and facility renovation projects, including construction at the new $450 million Austin campus and an expansion in womens services. The hospital previously announced a $245 million expansion of its Pavilion for Women in the Texas Medical Center. In its analysis, Fitch said multiple factors contributed to the downgrade, including lower-than-expected patient volumes in the Houston market, a two-week delay in the opening of the new Austin campus and enrollment drops in the Texas Childrens Health Plan. Higher-than-expected losses in medical costs also played a role, Fitch said. Fitch is owned by The Hearst Corp., also the parent company of the Houston Chronicle. The AA- bond rating still represents high credit quality, according to Fitch officials, and Texas Childrens maintains a stable credit outlook. Kevin Holloran, a senior director at Fitch, described the factors that led to the downgrade as a perfect storm. It's a downgrade, but it's not the signal of something long-term dire or anything along those lines, he told the Chronicle. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Texas Childrens is among dozens of hospitals and health systems across the U.S. to announce layoffs so far this year, according to Beckers Hospital Review. Some of the biggest cuts occurred at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (1,000 layoffs), Oregon Health and Science University (500) and University Hospitals in Cleveland (300). Aldred characterized Texas Childrens financial challenges as being due to changes in the health care industry, some related to the COVID-19 pandemic. They include rising costs for both supplies and labor and the end of pandemic-era public health emergency declarations. Hospitals and health care facilities across the country, they're making this challenging decision. And that's where we really found ourselves, Aldred said. This has been such a hard decision for us. The hospital began cutting costs six to nine months ago by examining its executive leadership team, Aldred said. The hospital has reduced the size of the team by about 10% by opting not to fill positions that have been vacated and instead reassigning duties to other executives. Executives will also take a pay cut this fiscal year, she said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Our executive team will be at lower levels of compensation, Aldred said. We always start with leadership, and that's true here as well. What it means for employees Aldred said cuts are being made to all types of employees, from frontline health care workers to leadership. Both clinical and nonclinical employees are affected. Some of the employees are recent hires while others have been with Texas Childrens for more than 20 years, she said. Affected employees will continue to receive pay and benefits for an unspecified period, Aldred said. Texas Childrens also plans to set up an employee support center to assist affected employees with resume writing, interview skills and career advice. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Employees will also be eligible to apply to be rehired in another role within the hospital, Aldred said. Texas Childrens conducted a department-by-department review to determine which employees would be affected by the layoffs. The hospital focused on how it could continue offering the same level of services with fewer employees, Aldred said. The hospital does not anticipate the reduced workforce will lead to a higher workload or longer hours for remaining employees, Aldred said. Some areas may have one or two people (laid off), other areas may have more, but they redesigned their work as they went through this assessment, she said. It wont be an overwhelming burden. Financial challenges Fitch acknowledged that the lower patient volumes are partly due to fewer patients with respiratory viruses, such as COVID-19, in fiscal 2024. But the credit rating agency said a decline in the daily average census in the hospitals neonatal intensive care unit is notable given its historically consistent volumes. The credit rating agency also noted that Medicaid was responsible for approximately 56% of the hospitals gross revenues in fiscal 2023, but the program is subject to potential funding cuts at the federal and state levels. While the hospitals financial outlook is expected to improve in the coming years, nationwide increase in labor costs and modest profitability from health plan enrollment could slow the recovery, Fitch said in its analysis. The Texas Children's Health Plan, a separate nonprofit entity, recently lost about 30% of its membership when Texas purged Medicaid rolls as pandemic-era coverage expired. The health plan laid off a few hundred employees earlier this year. Aldred said the health plan's struggles did not contribute to the layoffs announced Tuesday. The health plan could still absorb a more devastating financial blow in the next year if it loses a contract it has held for more than 20 years to provide Medicaid coverage mostly for children in low-income families and pregnant women. The 25-year-old plan exclusively serves Medicaid and CHIP recipients. A contract loss would upend coverage for its roughly 450,000 members in the southeast Texas region and threaten the sustainability of the organization, a nonprofit that drew $2.9 million in revenue in fiscal 2022, according to the most recent public tax filings. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission launched a new contract procurement process in 2022 with a new set of criteria to evaluate prospective Medicaid providers. In addition to Texas Childrens, two other childrens hospital plans were notified that the state would not award them a contract under the new criteria, which measures cost efficiency and quality of care. All three childrens hospitals protested, citing a flawed bidding process. Casey, a three-month-old blue heeler/Australian shepherd mix, was dropped off at the Conroe Animal Shelter July 7 with a badly injured right front leg. Due to lack of care at the shelter, he chewed the leg off before being rescued and taken to a local veterinary hospital. Photo courtesy of Joy Southhard EDITORS NOTE, THIS PHOTO HAS BEEN ALTERED TO BLUR THE DOGS INJURY. - Casey, a three-month-old blue heeler/Australian shepherd mix, was dropped off at the Conroe Animal Shelter July 7 with a badly injured right front leg. Due to lack of care at the shelter, he chewed the leg off before being rescued and taken to a local veterinary hospital. Photo courtesy of Joy Southhard An investigation into how a puppy was allowed to chew off its own leg at the Conroe Animal Shelter in July found there was no on-call veterinarian or emergency equipment for the shelter, which euthanized 651 dogs in the first half of 2024. Casey, a three-month-old male blue heeler mix, was brought to the shelter with a badly-injured leg July 7 and provided an anti-inflammatory pill for pain but received no other veterinary care, according to the investigation launched by Mayor Duke Coon and conducted by Conroe Police Department. By the morning of Tuesday, July 9, Care staff found that Casey had chewed at the damaged leg, causing it to sever at the location of the injury, the report states. Staff advised that (a) cone was put on Caseyafter it was discovered that he had chewed through the damaged leg. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Per the contract with the city, Care Corp. employees must provide emergency medical attention, including basic first aid services and licensed veterinary care. The contract does not define emergency medical services," the report states. The shelter does not have emergency medical equipment or medication, nor does it have on-call veterinary services for emergencies. The only option currently on the table for Care Corporation to deal with an animal in an emergency situation is to euthanize or rely on a rescue to pull the animal in a timely manner. Casey was not seen by a veterinarian until he was taken out of the shelter by a volunteer and the leg was ultimately amputated, the investigation found. Coon launched the investigation into the puppys treatment and the shelter operations July 23 after being contacted by the Chronicle. This is absolutely unacceptable," Coon said in July. "We will move forward so this doesnt happen again. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Care Corp., which has contracted with the city to manage the shelter since 2014, was sold to Sharon Hopkins in 2016. Hopkins could not be reached for comment. The report states Care Corp., is now working with a local veterinarian to develop after-hours protocol for injured animals. Release rates for animals According to city data, the shelter's live release rate was around 70% from January through July. The shelter took in just over 1,470 animals. Of those, 651 dogs were euthanized during that six-month period. The city data categorizes the animals as "healthy" or "unhealthy and untreatable," and 364 of the euthanized dogs were listed as healthy. A total of 61 cats, including 15 healthy cats, were euthanized. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The data shows 26 dogs and 95 cats either died or were lost in the shelters care. I am shocked and appalled, said Councilwoman Marsha Porter. It was essentially a death sentence (for animals taken to the shelter). According to the report, Care Corp., has continued to operate under COVID-19 restrictions with the shelter closed except for appointments. That has since been corrected. "Both Care Corp. and Conroe PD failed to revert back to 'open to the public' operations," the report states. The investigation also found "there is currently no contractual obligation for Care Corp. to offer offsite adoption events or proactively advertise adoptions." Councilwoman Shana Arthur said changes are needed immediately. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Im outraged, Arthur said. I am here to help and come up with solutions. History of shelter management When Care Corp. took over management of the city shelter in 2014, the company was owned by former Precinct 3 Constable Tim Holifield and his wife, Amy. In December of that year, Holifield sold the company to Dr. Aubrey Ross for $10,000. Ross sold the company to Hopkins and terminated his contract with the city under Care Corp. in 2016. In 2016, when the city moved to renew its contract with Hopkins and Care Corp., members of several animal rescue organizations who volunteered at the shelter were concerned about its future and how things could continue under Care Corp.'s management. Volunteers said the shelter lacked veterinary care and supplies. Advertisement Article continues below this ad More shelter concerns During the investigation, police department officials made several visits to the shelter and found dogs and cats without water. The report states that several kennels had not been cleaned. With the limited veterinary services, animals were being adopted without being spayed or neutered. The report said going forward, the shelter will contract with a veterinarian for those surgeries on Mondays. Montgomery County Animal Cruelty investigators were on the scene Tuesday morning in Cut and Shoot after residents reported finding dead dogs in a kennel in a neighbors backyard. Houston Chronicle Montgomery County Animal Cruelty investigators were on the scene Tuesday morning in Cut and Shoot after residents reported finding dead dogs in a kennel in a neighbors backyard. PIZZA PARTY: Top 20 pizza spots in the Houston area Alton Neeley, an investigator with the Precinct 2 Constables Office, was alerted to the issue Monday afternoon. We just got brought into this, Neeley said. I have spoken to witnesses and Im scheduled to meet with them (Tuesday). Advertisement Article continues below this ad Farmers begin rice transplanting after dike breaches sealed in C China Xinhua) 10:40, August 06, 2024 Villagers drive a rice transplanter planting rice seedlings in Liantuo Village of Xiangtan County, central China's Hunan Province, Aug. 5, 2024. Dike breaches occurred between July 28 and 29 after Typhoon Gaemi triggered record-breaking floods on the Juanshui river. The dike breaches in Xiangtan County were repaired and farmers have begun planting rice seedlings after flood receded. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan) An aerial drone photo shows villagers planting rice seedlings in Liantuo Village of Xiangtan County, central China's Hunan Province, Aug. 5, 2024. Dike breaches occurred between July 28 and 29 after Typhoon Gaemi triggered record-breaking floods on the Juanshui river. The dike breaches in Xiangtan County were repaired and farmers have begun planting rice seedlings after flood receded. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan) An aerial drone photo shows villagers planting rice seedlings in Liantuo Village of Xiangtan County, central China's Hunan Province, Aug. 5, 2024. Dike breaches occurred between July 28 and 29 after Typhoon Gaemi triggered record-breaking floods on the Juanshui river. The dike breaches in Xiangtan County were repaired and farmers have begun planting rice seedlings after flood receded. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan) An aerial drone photo shows villagers planting rice seedlings in Liantuo Village of Xiangtan County, central China's Hunan Province, Aug. 5, 2024. Dike breaches occurred between July 28 and 29 after Typhoon Gaemi triggered record-breaking floods on the Juanshui river. The dike breaches in Xiangtan County were repaired and farmers have begun planting rice seedlings after flood receded. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan) An aerial drone photo shows villagers planting rice seedlings in Liantuo Village of Xiangtan County, central China's Hunan Province, Aug. 5, 2024. Dike breaches occurred between July 28 and 29 after Typhoon Gaemi triggered record-breaking floods on the Juanshui river. The dike breaches in Xiangtan County were repaired and farmers have begun planting rice seedlings after flood receded. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan) Villagers drive a rice transplanter planting rice seedlings in Liantuo Village of Xiangtan County, central China's Hunan Province, Aug. 5, 2024. Dike breaches occurred between July 28 and 29 after Typhoon Gaemi triggered record-breaking floods on the Juanshui river. The dike breaches in Xiangtan County were repaired and farmers have begun planting rice seedlings after flood receded. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan) (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) South Carolina State University will close Tuesday and Wednesday due to deteriorating weather conditions caused by Hurricane Debby. Only essential employees should report to campus. Non-essential employees are instructed to work remotely if possible. Residence halls and off-campus housing facilities will remain open. Student dining services will be available at the Washington Dining Hall. Move-in dates for affinity groups scheduled to arrive this week have been suspended until further notice. Additional security personnel will be in place through this period. Students who are currently on campus are encouraged to: Remain on campus and stay inside their residence halls. Shelter in place during the storms peak periods while staying away from windows. Students should leave campus only in urgent situations. If you must leave, please notify your residence hall advisor. Avoid the use of elevators due to the risk of power outages. Students who see flooding or wind damage are encouraged to email workorders@scsu.edu or call 803-596-6030. In the event of emergencies, students and employees are advised to call the Campus Police at 803-378-7188, 803-378-4754, or dial 911. Campus facilities crews will assess damages in the aftermath of the storm on Wednesday and determine when the university will open. National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) has reported a 14% increase in its net profit attributable to the shareholders for the first half of 2024 which soared to BD46.6 million ($124 million) from BD40.8 million ($108.2 million) last year. Announcing the results for the six months period ended June 30, 2024, NBB said the increase in H1 net profit was mainly due to higher net interest income driven by a stronger average balance sheet compared to last year and higher gains from investment securities and treasury activities. The earnings per share increased to 21 fils ($6 cents) for the period compared with 18 fils ($5 cents) for the same period in 2023, it stated. Total comprehensive income attributable to NBBs shareholders for the period increased by 20% to BD51.4 million ($136.3 million) compared with 42.8 million ($113.5 million) in 2023. The increase is mainly attributable to the positive mark-to-market movements of the equity portfolio and to a higher consolidated net profit, said NBB in a statement. On its Q2 performance, NBB said its net profit attributable to shareholders grew 4% to BD19.1 million ($50.7 million), compared to BD18.4 million ($48.8 million) in 2023. This increase was mainly driven by balance sheet growth and, higher gains from investment securities and treasury activities, it stated. The bank's Q2 earnings per share stood at 8 fils ($2 cents) in line with the same period in 2023. Total comprehensive income attributable to NBBs shareholders for the quarter decreased by 29% to BD19.4 million ($51.5 million) compared to BD27.4 million ($72.7 million) in 2023. The decrease is attributable to the negative mark-to-market movements of the equity and bond portfolios, it stated. NBB Groups total equity attributable to shareholders increased by 1% as of 30 June 2024 to BD571.4 million ($1.51 billion) compared to BD565 million ($1.49 billion) reported as of 31 December 2023. The attributable profits and the positive movements in the fair value reserve for the period were largely offset by the payment of the 2023 cash dividends. The Bahraini bank said the groups total assets increased by 3% during the period to BD5.51 billion ($14.6 billion) compared to BD5.37 billion ($14.2 billion) recorded on 31 December 2023. This increase was mainly due to loans and advances registering a 7% growth from 31 December 2023, it added. Impressed with the Groups strong performance, the NBB Board of Directors has proposed an interim cash dividend of BD22.7 million ($60 million), which represents a 10% per share dividend. The payment is subject to the approval of the regulatory authorities. On the solid performance, Group Chairperson Hala Yateem said: "NBB has continued to achieve double-digit growth in the first half of 2024 with an attributable profit of BD46.6 million, representing a 14% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The strong profitability is supported by a robust balance sheet, with total assets reaching BD5.5 billion, a 3% increase from the year-end level." "This performance has resulted in an annualised average return on equity of 16.4%, surpassing the 14.7% and 14.2% recorded on 30 June and 31 December 2023 respectively, highlighting NBB's efforts to continually enhance the value it delivers to shareholders. We received our third successive title for the Best Retail Bank in Bahrain at the MEED MENA Banking Excellence Awards," stated Yateem. According to her, the bank has also continued its investments in various community, health, educational, and environmental initiatives, resulting in its third regional Euromoney award for the Middle Easts Best Bank for Corporate Responsibility and consecutive country accolades for Best Bank in Bahrain for Corporate Responsibility and Best Bank in Bahrain for ESG. "Building on this foundation, NBB is poised for further growth in the remainder of 2024 as we continue to contribute to the progress of the Kingdoms financial sector and reinforce our position as the regions leading Bank in corporate responsibility," she added. Group CEO Usman Ahmed said: "NBB Group has achieved strong growth in its core business in the first half of 2024, with operating profits of BD51.7 million representing an 11% increase over the same period in 2023." "This growth was underpinned by organic expansion of our business across Bahrain, UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and represents the Bank's strategic focus on its core geographies and customer segments, with loans and customer deposits increasing by 7% and 4% respectively from the year-end level. In addition to our client business, our professional markets activities also continue to deliver exceptional returns," stated Ahmed. "Continuing with our commitment to client-centric innovation, we launched NBB GO during the second quarter, a cutting-edge SoftPOS application that simplifies and redefines the mobile payment experience for small businesses. As we move forward, NBB remains focused on further expanding its scale and profitability through serving its clients and driving innovation, while also creating positive social impact," he added.-TradeArabia News Service The total value of awarded contracts in Saudi Arabia for the first quarter soared to SAR119 billion ($32 billion), thus recording a 79% growth over last year while on a quarter-on-quarter basis, the value of contracts grew by 35%, according to a report by the US-Saudi Business Council (USSBC). Sector-wise, the oil and gas sector ominated the scene walking away with the lion's share of contracts worth SAR51.2 billion ($13.7 billion) followed by real estate which climbed to the second spot with awarded contracts worth SAR24.4 billion ($6.5 billion) and the water sector at the third spot with SAR24 billion ($6.4 billion) contracts. The USSBC Contract Awards Index ascended to 415.89 points as the sector witnessed a surge in contract values, which has elevated the CAI above the 200-point mark for 18 consecutive months. Alef Group, a leading real estate developer in Sharjah, has announced the launch of the Nama 4 building as a part of Al Mamsha Raseel, situated within Zone 3 of Alef Groups Al Mamsha development, Sharjahs inaugural pedestrian-friendly community. The Nama cluster consists of 1,029 units spread across six buildings, with Nama 4 featuring 198 units, including one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. Alef Group CEO Issa Ataya said: "We are proud to announce the successful launch of Nama 4 within Al Mamsha Raseel. Aligned with Sharjahs development goals, Alef Group has dedicated extensive efforts to provide exceptional investment prospects with this project." "Nama 4 boasts innovative features and fittings, including superior wall insulation for noise regulation, double-glazed windows for temperature regulation, high ceilings, energy-saving air conditioning and lighting systems, and high-quality cabinetry and plumbing fixtures," he noted. "Our commitment remains steadfast in enhancing community experiences through upscale residential and retail offerings," he added. Residents at Nama 4 will get to enjoy a range of amenities, including multiple swimming pools, childrens play areas, parks, convenient access to retail outlets, and scenic views of water features. SEHA (Abu Dhabi Health Services Company) has launched an X-Ray blood irradiator at Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services. The advanced medical device marks a milestone in enhancing blood safety and quality standards in the region. SEHA is a subsidiary of PureHealth, the largest healthcare platform in the Middle East. The RS 3400 X-Ray Blood Irradiator utilises X-ray irradiation to treat blood and blood components, significantly reducing the risk of Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD) in patients receiving blood transfusions. This potentially life-threatening complication occurs when white blood cells from the donated blood attack the recipient's body. Furthermore, unlike traditional irradiators that use radioactive materials like Caesium-137, this device employs a single X-ray source. This eliminates the need for complex licensing and shielding requirements associated with radioactive materials. It boasts a faster irradiation cycle, accommodating up to six units per cycle compared to the previous machine. This increased efficiency translates to a greater capacity to meet the growing need for blood products within Abu Dhabis healthcare system, a statement said. There were almost 66,000 donors in Abu Dhabi in 2023, a 37.53 per cent increase compared to 2022, with donors contributing nearly 99,000 units of blood. People who are willing and are fit to donate can start donating from age 18, the statement said. Dr Hamad Saif Al Nuaimi, Manager of the Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services, said: "The new irradiator marks a significant milestone for the Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services, reaffirming our commitment to advancing blood safety and quality standards. With this cutting-edge machine, we are enhancing our capacity to provide safe and reliable blood products to patients in need across Abu Dhabi. We are proud to invest in equipment that prioritises the safety and well-being of blood recipients, reinforcing our dedication to excellence in healthcare. This project is supported by the Abu Dhabi Department of Health (DoH), reflecting the government's commitment to providing the healthcare sector with advanced technologies and resources. - Trade Arabia News Service The Dubai-headquartered International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) has formalised its collaboration, by signing a memorandum, with the Central Asian University of Environmental and Climate Change Studies, also known as Green University. The agreement was signed by Dr Tarifa Alzaabi, Director General of ICBA, and Dr Jasur Salikhov, Acting Rector of Green University, during a ceremony in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The signing ceremony was attended by Mohammad AlDaheri, Head of Economic, Political, and Media Affairs Section at the Embassy of the UAE in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. It facilitates closer cooperation in advancing agricultural research and development. The collaboration will cover joint projects and programs, designed to enhance agricultural science, innovation and capacity development, a statement said. Additionally, it will provide internship and fellowship opportunities to students from Green University to gain valuable hands-on experience. Moreover, the agreement outlines plans for organising workshops, conferences, webinars, and other events to promote knowledge exchange and agricultural science. As part of this partnership, special attention will be paid to the empowerment of women in agriculture by developing their research and leadership skills. Both institutions will also be seeking funds for joint projects and will actively exchange scientific materials, publications, and other relevant information to support their collaborative efforts, a statement said. Dr Tarifa Alzaabi, Director General of ICBA, said: Our collaboration with Green University will make it possible to combine our resources and efforts to achieve common goals in sustainable development in Uzbekistan in particular and Central Asia as a whole. By leveraging our capacity and expertise, we will work to address critical challenges in agriculture and contribute to food security, livelihoods and sustainability at the national and regional levels. We look forward to putting our plans into action and developing innovative solutions for sustainable agrifood systems, especially in saline and arid environments. Dr. Charbel Tarraf, Chief Operations and Development at ICBA, said: As we give youth engagement a priority in our capacity development programs, we work closely with academic institutions in different countries. We believe it is important to provide young people with resources and opportunities to engage in scientific research and innovation. Therefore, we offer a wide range of tailor-made programs to students, including internships and fellowships. And this partnership will allow students from Green University to benefit ICBA's capacity development offerings.- Trade Arabia News Service Claire Partain is a Houston ISD reporter for the Houston Chronicle covering student achievement. She can be reached at claire.partain@houstonchronicle.com. She got her start as sports editor at Texas State University (go Cats!) before covering professional soccer team Austin FC and other Austin news at digital startup Austonia. Claire has also freelanced with her hometown paper, appearing in the Fairfield Recorder, Teague Chronicle and Corsicana Daily Sun. Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), the worlds largest single-site smelter, has appointed Ricardo Fontes Santana as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective August 15. A seasoned finance executive with over 25 years of global experience, Santana brings a wealth of knowledge in the metals and mining industry. His distinguished career includes leadership roles at industry giants such as Sohar Aluminium, South32, Essilor, BHP Billiton, and Shell, spanning diverse geographies including Brazil, Australia, Singapore, The Netherlands, Portugal, and Oman. We are delighted to welcome Ricardo to the Alba family, said Khalid Al Rumaihi, Chairman of Albas Board of Directors. His deep-rooted expertise in the global industrial sector, coupled with a proven ability to navigate complex financial landscapes, makes him an invaluable addition to our team. We are confident that his leadership will contribute significantly to Albas growth journey, stated Al Rumaihi. Ali Al Baqali, Albas Chief Executive Officer, said: Ricardos appointment underscores our unwavering commitment to assembling a world-class leadership team. His impressive history of delivering exceptional financial performance and executing strategic initiatives aligns perfectly with Albas ambitious vision. Santana holds an MBA in Finance and Controlling from Universidade Federal Fluminense and has completed executive education programmes at the Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, and the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University. He is also certified in Investor Relations by the UKs IR Society. On his new role, Santana said: I am honoured to join the Alba Executive team and contribute to the Companys ongoing success. By leveraging my financial expertise and collaborating closely with the leadership team," "I am confident in our ability to drive sustainable growth, enhance shareholder value, and consolidate Albas position as a global industry leader," he added.-TradeArabia News Service Bahrains Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) attained significant milestones in digital transformation, investing in emerging technologies, and enhancing IT governance policies in the first half of 2024. The number of electronic transactions completed through the National Portal, bahrain.bh, mobile applications, and other electronic channels reached 4 million, with the value of payments via all digital channels exceeding BD374 million ($992 million). Some 700 eServices were delivered across all eGovernment channels and 35 new eServices launched in first half of year. This has resulted in 75% cost reduction and 68%-time reduction, said (iGA) Chief Executive, Mohammed Ali Al Qaed. Purchase requests Some 950 ICT purchase requests by over 50 government entities valued at BD36 million were reviewed and 100 strategic IT projects worth BD34 million were considered. Al Qaed also said transactions through mobile applications available via the eGovernment app store, bahrain.bh/apps exceeded 691,000, a 20% rise compared to the first half of 2023, with an average monthly usage rate exceeding 788,000, and payment transactions surpassing BD32 million, a 14% increase. The number of app downloads was over 902,000. The AlTajer app saw a 192% increase in payment transactions during this period, with a 48% rise in the average number of monthly users. Similarly, the eShabab app saw a 99% increase in the average number of users compared to the first half of 2023, following the provision of scholarship and programme registration services. There was also a 38% jump in the average monthly users of the Sehati app, a 27% increase for the Tawasul app, and a 20% rise for the eTraffic app. The most used apps in the first half of this year were eTraffic, with a monthly average of over 230,000 users, and Sehati, with a monthly average of over 136,000 users. 35 new eServices Regarding the key services launched in the first half of 2024, Al Qaed said 35 new eServices were completed through the National Portal and eGovernment channels, including 9 new services provided by the iGA, such as the QR code-enabled ID card printing service, death certificate services, birth certificate request status inquiry, and ID card renewal for senior citizens. Additionally, 3 new eServices from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and related entities within the AlTajer app were launched, including a video call consultation request service, a digital business advisor service, and a Commercial Registration (CR) without a license service. There was also a service launched for the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA), the introduction of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Plannings financing request service, along with a new service from the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs, and Endowments. Al Qaed also highlighted the launch of 12 national systems, including Death Registration, the Building Permit Portal (Benayat), and the National Correspondence System 2.0, with updates to 124 services in these systems, including 33 new services. Phase 2 of Sijilat 3.0 He mentioned the launch of phase two of Sijilat 3.0, which provides users with a new interface and dashboard, along with 29 services, including 5 new ones. The National Suggestion and Complaint System (Tawasul) was also improved, adding the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) and Eskan Bank as new entities. He noted that the total number of cases directed through various government entities via the system during the first half of 2024 exceeded 85,000, with a service level commitment rate of 98.5% and a satisfaction rate of 85% for entity performance on Tawasul. Al Qaed also highlighted the redesign of service procedures and systems to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of delivering government services. A total of 81 national initiatives, including electronic services and information systems for government entities, were restructured. To ensure service quality, 23 government websites were evaluated, and over 800 national systems tested, with 251 government employees from 24 entities trained. He mentioned the launch of two new eServices for Benayat in the first half of 2024 which accelerate transaction completion, including large and small addition services, along with advertising and road occupancy permits for large additions, benefiting approximately 1,400 engineering offices, owners, and government entities, and enabling them to issue building permits electronically through the system within two working days. Al Qaed said the National Geospatial Database supports relevant entities by providing geospatial data, with more than 133,000 accesses to the data, either directly or through service systems such as Benayat and permits and planning platforms, among other systems that are linked to the database. Data backup project Among the achievements was a data backup project for 44 government entities utilising Microsoft 365 cloud computing services. This allowed the iGA's to provide backups for all iGA and other government entities, totalling 709, on a daily, monthly, and annual basis, enhancing comprehensive protection of data and information assets. The number of registered users for the advanced eKey, from the system's launch until the first half of this year reached approximately 768,000 users, with over 14 million successful logins during the first half of the year. Al Qaed also highlighted operations and governance achievements, including 20 entities being linked to the data lake, the transference of 72 sets of data from various entities, and the launch of the real estate information bank platform, Aqari, with an Employment Skills Platform nearing launch. Additionally, an interactive electronic meeting system was implemented during the 33rd Arab Summit, hosted by Bahrain. Two different system models were created, one for summit preparatory meetings and the other for the summit itself. The system was also applied in the 54th session of the Council of Arab Information Ministers, also hosted by Bahrain.--TradeArabia News Service Vivium, a single-family office based in Dubai, has appointed Ruggero Ottogalli as the new CEO of its design division. An industry veteran, Ottogalli brings a wealth of experience in the design furniture industry, having held senior roles at prestigious global brands renowned for their commitment to craftmanship and design excellence. As the executive responsible for overseeing Viviums design portfolio, Ottogalli's deep understanding of the global design market and relationships with renowned brands will be crucial to advancing Viviums vision. He will be based in Dubai, where Vivium is headquartered. Under Ottogallis leadership, Vivium plans to enhance its offerings by combining timeless design with meticulous craftsmanship, while continuing to drive innovation in the region's design furniture industry, it stated. Welcoming him into the fold, Omar Salameh, CEO of Vivium, said: "Ruggero's deep industry expertise, strategic vision, and proven successful track record make him the ideal leader to drive the growth and evolution of our design division." Ottogalli's extensive experience, he stated, will be key to Vivium's plans to introduce new international design brands, helping the company onboard world-class labels and expand its existing portfolio, which includes Cassina, Kettal, Rimadesio and Giorgetti. "We are thrilled to welcome him to our team and are confident that he will play a pivotal role in solidifying Viviums design portfolio," he added. On his new role, Ottogalli said: "I am truly honoured to join the Vivium team and lead the design division during this exciting phase of growth. Vivium's unwavering commitment to excellence, quality, and craftsmanship resonates deeply with my passion for creating meticulous and timeless designs." The design division, he stated, is committed to delivering comprehensive solutions that set new standards of excellence for discerning clients. "I eagerly anticipate collaborating closely with the Vivium team and our esteemed partners to introduce the world's premier design brands to the Middle East, offering our customers unparalleled service and unprecedented access to exclusive and immersive design experiences," he added. The iconic luxury label Roberto Cavalli will be the guest of honour at the upcoming Dubai Fashion Week (DFW) that will run from September 1-7, bringing together an exclusive gathering of fashion stakeholders, celebrities and media at d3. The brand returns to the spotlight under the new and visionary creative director Fausto Puglisi. Showcasing for the first time in the Middle East, the Italian brand will close the Spring/Summer 2025 (SS 2025) season with an exclusive collection, marking a significant milestone for the platforms global profile. Roberto Cavallis debut on the runway of the DFW, co-founded by Dubai Design District (d3) and the Arab Fashion Council (AFC), cements the Emirates status as a global fashion capital and reflects Dubais rapidly expanding luxury market. The late and legendary designer Roberto Cavalli founded the namesake brand in the 1970s, debuting in Paris with a collection of printed leather gowns. It has since become a household name for Italian luxury and glamour, featuring on international runways and red carpets, distinguished by a bold use of tropical patterns and animal prints. Among a legacy of celebrated collections and achievements, the fashion house is credited for reviving denim as a high-fashion garment through innovative fabric processing and treatment and the invention of stretch denim. The brand has expanded its repertoire from apparel to handbags, fragrances, children's wear and home interiors. "Dubai Fashion Week is growing in prominence and prestige, said Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of Dubai Design District (d3), part of Tecom Group. "Each edition proves Dubais mettle as a global fashion capital. Roberto Cavallis Middle East runway debut on our platform sends a powerful message to the international industry: that Dubai is where the future of fashion is being written. We are delighted to welcome the brand as our guest designer and enrich the experience of attendees by adding such a celebrated name to our lineup. Roberto Cavalli will be a memorable closer to the Spring/Summer edition and cement Dubais renown among the worlds five fashion capitals, including London, Paris, Milan and New York." Mohammed Aqra, Chief Strategy Officer of Arab Fashion Council, said: "Having Roberto Cavalli close our Spring/Summer 2025 show reflects the growing prestige of Dubai Fashion Week. The Middle Eastern market has always been significant for Cavalli, and this showcase will undoubtedly strengthen the bond between the brand and its regional supporters. Puglisi said: "We are honoured to be the guest brand at Dubai Fashion Week. Dubai is one of our biggest Middle Eastern markets, and the citys spirit aligns perfectly with Roberto Cavalli. Showcasing here allows us to connect more deeply with our loyal clientele and new admirers alike. Our SS25 collection, exclusively edited for this event, reflects the luxurious essence of both Dubai and Roberto Cavalli." Presenting ahead of New York Fashion Week and setting the tone for the global fashion calendar, DFW will see more than 30 brands from France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Palestine, Russia, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom showcase original streetwear and haute couture collections. TradeArabia News Service Gitex Global 2024, one of the worlds largest tech and start-up events, will see the participation of cybersecurity experts and keynote speakers from world-leading brands, when it gets underway from October 14-18 at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). The event will also host new industry programmes in line with Dubais goal to become the home of 30 start-up unicorns by 2030. Highlights Gitex Editions, to debut in this years edition, is the region's most impactful gathering that aims at fostering strategy, created to accelerate scale and global governance for high-growth companies. Organisers have confirmed a speaker line-up that includes eight fast-growing start-ups from eight countries three backed by the European Innovation Council (EIC). They are: Artificial Intelligence Fabrizio del Maffeo, Co-Founder, CEO & Board Member, Axelera AI (Netherlands), an expert in developing Gen AI infrastructure and edge computing. Growing with a purpose of becoming the European Nvidia, Axelera AI are backed by Samsung and the EIC. Valued at $500 million, Gitex Global will mark its first ever Middle East presence. Synthetic Biotech Dr Alexander Zhavoronkov is the Founder and CEO of InSilico Medicine (Hong Kong), a leading biotech company that executed the world's fastest-ever IPO that is currently valued at $1.5 billion. Zhavoronkov will discuss groundbreaking advancements in AI-driven drug discovery, synthetic biology, and ageing. Sustainability Biotech Dr Mazen Rizk is Founder and CEO of Infinite Roots (Germany), that is EUs largest mycelium-biotech investment, building the next-generation sustainable alternative proteins. It is an A Series B funded company backed by the EIC. Quantum Deeptech Dr Joseph Fitzsimons is Founder and CEO of Horizon Quantum Computing (Singapore) that is Singapores biggest Quantum startup, backed by SG Innovate, Sequoia and Tencent. Semiconductor Deeptech Dr Sunghyun Park, Founder and CEO, Rebellions (South Korea), is set to become Koreas first AI Semiconductor Chip Unicorn with a $1.5 billion value, and acquired Sapeon AI. Auto tech Svilen Rangelov is Co-Founder and CEO of Dronamics (UK) worlds first cargo drone airline on a mission to change e-commerce worldwide, part of the EIC scaling club. Emilio Scervo is the Chief Technology Officer and Board Member, Buggati - Rimac (Croatia), worlds fastest hypercars. Valued at $5 billion, they are the first and fastest-growing Croatian Unicorn. Semiconductor Supercomputing Philippe Notton, is Founder and CEO of SiPearl (France), high performance semiconductor manufacturer for AI interfaces and supercomputing aiming for the technological sovereignty of Europe. Cybersecurity Conference Programme Gitex Global 2024 will see cybersecurity taking centre stage with true stories from the trenches, AI-driven live hacks and fierce CISO debates. Making their debut at the worlds largest tech event is Chenxi Wang, Managing General Partner of Fortune 500 fund Rain Capital (US), and Ekaterina Serban, Vice President of Privacy and Information Security at Bosch (Germany), the world's largest automotive and services supplier. Named as a top international cyber investor in the world by Fortune magazine, Wang will join global VCs and investment partners on stage to address the driving forces behind the rising global interest of businesses to increasingly invest in advanced security solutions and the surge in M&A activity within the cybersecurity sector. On another must-see panel discussion, Serban will take part on the conversation with CISOs and CIOs around corporate board engagement strategies for cybersecurity adoption. New Industry Experts For the very first time, Michael Spranger, the president of Sony AI Inc. will be addressing delegates from 180 countries at Gitex Global 2024, revealing the latest projects underway at Sonys strategic research and development organisation. Also debuting will be Chris Duffey, Futurist & Head of GenStudio, Adobe, USA who co-authored the worlds first book on AI, with AI. Adobe has been highly instrumental in driving Gen AI to help creators. Isabell Gradert, VP Central Research & Technology for Airbus in Germany, will also be making her first regional appearance at the worlds largest tech and start-up event. Tech Destination Pakistan Following its presence in the Pakistan Pavilion in previous Gitex Global editions, Tech Destination Pakistan, represented by Pakistan Software Export Board, has this year been declared the 2024 events Tech Destination of the Year. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Minister of State for IT & Telecommunication, said of the announcement: This partnership highlights our commitment to innovation, technology and global collaboration. We look forward to showcasing Pakistan's brilliant tech talent and tremendous potential in this prestigious platform. TradeArabia News Service Adnec Group said that preparations are in full swing for the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (Adihex) 2024 a key event targeting hunting and equestrian enthusiasts, industry professionals, and families. It will take place from August 31 to September 8, at Adnec Centre Abu Dhabi. Adihex has combined Emirati cultural traditions and heritage with innovative, forward-looking features that open new business opportunities, engage Emiratis of all ages, and showcase adventure and outdoor lifestyles. To be held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers Club, the event is being organised for the first time by Capital Events, the events management arm of Adnec Group, in collaboration with the Emirates Falconers Club. Visitors to Adihex can explore cultural exhibitions, breathtaking traditional performances, and live historical displays that celebrate the rich heritage of the region. As the largest event of its kind in the MENA region, Adinex will display the latest technologies, innovations, and trends across 11 distinct cultural sectors including equestrian and falconry, hunting and shooting, camping, hunting, tourism and safari, fishing and marine sports, and arts and crafts along with many more sporting and outdoor activities. The arena will offer an unmissable family-friendly attraction offering a wide range of multi-cultural, educational, and interactive shows that are suitable for all age groups. Each day's agenda will include an extensive variety of exciting activities, workshops, beauty competitions, auctions and much more. A highlight will be the Falcon Auction where attendees can learn about the UAEs pioneering role in the captive-breeding of falcons as part of the country's commitment to conservation and preservation of its wildlife. The falcons featured at the auction are tailored for both novice and seasoned falconers of all nationalities, ensuring accessibility and diversity for all enthusiasts in the falconry community. For the first-time at Adihex, bidders will have the opportunity to bid for premium falcons online that will be showcased in a special viewing area at Adihex 2024. The Adihex Daily Family Show offers an action-packed experience guaranteed to entertain visitors of all ages. Featuring a lineup of extraordinary performances, this show celebrates the skill, history, heritage and the longstanding bond that humankind has had with animals through the ages. Highlights include the Abu Dhabi Police Showcase with the Abu Dhabi Police Musical Band and a fascinating crime scene reenactment that demonstrates the seamless collaboration between the Equine Team and K9 Unit. The Historical Battle and Archery on Horseback will see the Mamluk Archery and Kaber Stables demonstrate traditional Ottoman battle scenes and archery skills. The Wings of the Sahara Bird Show will showcase Al Ain Zoos mesmerising bird show, featuring exotic birds in a spectacular display. The Trick and Roman Riding performance will provide a thrilling performance of trick riding and Roman riding with stunts on horseback performed on up to four horses simultaneously. Visitors can also join the Adihex Knowledge Hub for live demonstrations and workshops with leading experts covering a range of fascinating subjects relating to falconry, equestrianism, desert physiognomy, maritime exploration, desert survival skills, the natural environment, Emirati culture and heritage, and safety and security. In addition to the spectacular shows and demonstrations on offer, visitors can also take advantage of a wide range of options to network with industry experts, explore and buy hunting merchandise and equipment, and connect with industry leading manufacturers and suppliers. Adihex will enable visitors to learn about current market trends and participate in sustainability and conservation efforts. Tickets are now available online for those wishing to attend the largest edition of the prestigious exhibition that was launched more than 20 years ago. TradeArabia News Service The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) will host a gala dinner on September 1, 2024, under the theme Celebrating 50 Years of Global Impact, commemorating five decades of driving sustainable global development and progress. Since its establishment in 1974, the SFD has been the main international development arm of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, supporting sustainable development initiatives across Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Eastern Europe. Through collaboration and partnership, the SFD's work reaches those most in need around the globe. The SFD is also committed to supporting the Least Developed Countries and Small Developing Island States, recognising their unique challenges and vulnerabilities. "For 50 years, the SFD has worked hand-in-hand with communities and partners to drive transformative development change, said Sultan Al-Marshad, CEO of the SFD. Our programmes have touched nearly every aspect of society, from building essential social infrastructures like roads, hospitals, and schools to empowering communities through initiatives in education, healthcare, water and sanitation, renewable energy, agriculture, transportation and communication, industry and mining, and more. At this critical milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to spurring global collaboration and unity, building inclusive frameworks for social, economic, and human development, and fostering economic prosperity in developing countries worldwide." The 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner will bring together global development partners and leaders, as well as government representatives, world experts, and academics, to celebrate the SFD and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's development legacy, as well as its future ambition to help build a more sustainable and equitable future for all. TradeArabia News Service Aramco has announced its second quarter and half-year 2024 results, reporting a net income of $29.1 billion in the second quarter and $56.3 billion for the first half of the year. The results show a strong performance as the energy major advances its long-term growth strategy, Aramco said. Cash flow from operating activities reached $31.1 billion in the second quarter and $64.7 billion in the first half, while free cash flow stood at $19 billion in the second quarter and $41.7 billion in the first half. Aramco's financial position remains robust, with a gearing ratio1 of -0.5 per cent as of June 30, 2024, compared to -6.3 per cent at the end of 2023, the company said. The company is also set to pay a second quarter 2024 base dividend of $20.3 billion and a performance-linked dividend distribution of $10.8 billion in the third quarter. In 2024, Aramco expects to declare industry-leading total dividends of $124.2 billion, it said. Aramco's strategic expansion continues as the company successfully completed a secondary public offering of its shares and a $6 billion bond offering, both of which received strong demand from investors worldwide. The company has also made significant progress in its gas expansion efforts, announcing contract awards worth more than $25 billion as it targets a sales gas production growth of more than 60 per cent by 2030, compared to 2021 levels. Furthermore, Aramco has agreed to acquire a 10 per cent equity interest in Horse Powertrain Limited, a global powertrain solutions company established by Renault Group and Geely. The company has also expanded its international retail presence by successfully acquiring a 40 per cent equity stake in Gas & Oil Pakistan. Additionally, Aramco has reached an agreement with Pasqal to install the first quantum computer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Amin Nasser, Aramco President & CEO, said: We have delivered market-leading performance once again, with strong earnings and cash flows in the first half of the year. Leveraging these strong earnings, we continued to deliver a base dividend that is sustainable and progressive, and a performance-linked dividend that shares the upside with our shareholders. We have also continued to create and deliver both value and growth, as demonstrated by the positive investor response to the governments secondary public offering of Aramco shares and our recent $6 billion bond issuance. Our drive to create value is supported by our distinctive long-term competitive advantages, our exceptional financial resilience through cycles, and our strong balance sheet. Building on these strengths, we also made significant progress in key strategic areas during the second quarter from advancing our gas program and expanding our new energies portfolio, to partnering with leading car manufacturers on lower-emission vehicle technologies and growing our global retail network. These are exciting times for Aramco as we continue to seek new opportunities to enhance our portfolio and our capabilities to enable a secure and more sustainable energy future, he concluded. --TradeArabia News Service Adnoc has announced the signing of a long-term Heads of Agreement (LNG agreement) with Osaka Gas, one of the largest utility companies in Japan, for the delivery of up to 0.8 million metric tonnes per annum (mmtpa) of liquefied natural gas (LNG). The LNG will primarily be sourced from Adnocs lower-carbon Ruwais LNG project, which is currently under development in Al Ruwais Industrial City, Abu Dhabi, and is expected to start commercial operations in 2028. Under the agreement, LNG cargoes will be shipped to the destination ports of Osaka Gas and its Singapore-based subsidiary, Osaka Gas Energy Supply and Trading Pte. Ltd. (OGEST). Rashid Khalfan Al Mazrouei, Adnoc Senior Vice President, Marketing, said: This landmark LNG agreement, our first long-term LNG deal with Osaka Gas, underscores the strong, long-standing energy partnership between the UAE and Japan. This agreement further enhances Adnocs position as a reliable and responsible global energy provider and reflects our commitment to help meet Japans energy needs with secure and sustainable energy solutions. The Ruwais LNG project supports our broader strategy to expand our global LNG footprint to enable the energy transition. The agreement with Osaka Gas is one of several long-term LNG sales commitments Adnoc has signed with international partners for Ruwais LNG, which take the long-term sales commitments to 70% of the projects total production capacity. Keiji Takemori, Osaka Gas Executive Vice President, said: Osaka Gas is delighted to secure LNG from Adnoc, a reliable and responsible global energy supplier. This agreement will significantly enhance the stability of Osaka Gas LNG procurement. It will also strengthen the foundation of our stable energy supply to customers, transition to lower carbon energy, and acceleration towards our net zero target. We will continue working on the stable procurement, development and supply of natural gas as a key transition fuel. The Ruwais LNG plant is set to be the first LNG export facility in the Middle East and Africa region to run on clean power, making it one of the lowest-carbon intensity LNG plants in the world. The facility will leverage artificial intelligence and the latest technologies to enhance safety, minimise emissions and drive efficiency. The Ruwais LNG project will consist of two 4.8mmtpa LNG liquefaction trains with a total capacity of 9.6mmtpa, more than doubling Adnocs existing UAE LNG production capacity to around 15mmtpa, as the company builds its international LNG portfolio. The agreement, Adnocs first long-term LNG deal with a Japanese energy company since the early 1990s, demonstrates the companys renewed commitment to the Japanese market. Adnoc and Osaka Gas will work together to conclude a detailed Sale and Purchase Agreement in the coming months based on the terms of the LNG agreement. --TradeArabia News Service Sabic, a leader in diversified chemicals, signed a potential investment agreement with the Fujian government, under the auspices of the Saudi Ministry of Energy, to build an engineering thermoplastics compounding plant in Chinas Fujian Province. The signing of the agreement took place during an official ceremony at the ministry in Riyadh in the presence of Zhou Zuyi, Party Secretary, Fujian Province; Ahmed Al-Zahrani, Assistant Minister for Development and Excellence Sector, Ministry of Energy; and Abdulrahman Al-Fageeh, Sabic CEO. Sami Al-Osaimi, Sabic Executive Vice President, Polymers, and Ma Changjian, Deputy Director, Fujian Zhangzhou Gulei Port Economic Development Zone Administration Committee, officially signed the agreement. The new investment further underscores Sabics efforts to meet the unique requirements for differentiated innovative solutions from its local customers in China while strengthening its roots in the Chinese market and its contributions to the high-quality and sustainable development of the chemical industry. Abdulrahman Al-Fageeh, Sabic CEO said, This investment agreement marks another significant milestone for Sabics growth in China and reflects our continued confidence in investing in the country. By creating synergy with upstream and downstream partners, the project aims to strengthen our supply capability in compounding products and serve this important strategic market with innovative and consistently high-quality material solutions. Building on this, we will continue to collaborate with our existing global and local partners and customers to grow together in China. The planned compounding plant will be located in the Gulei Port Economic Development Zone, Zhangzhou, Fujian. It will primarily produce pelletized LEXAN Polycarbonate (PC) and CYCOLOY PC/ABS blends for use in advanced materials tailored to the needs of industries including electrical and consumer electronics, automotive, and emerging sectors such as solar energy, electrification, and 5G. The site will include compounding lines, color development capabilities, and advanced equipment that will enable Sabic to work with its customers and partners to create new innovative solutions for engineering plastics. In addition to the planned engineering thermoplastics compounding plant, Sabic operates a Sabic Technology Center in Shanghai and three compounding plants in Guangzhou, Shanghai and Chongqing, alongside operations in 17 cities across Greater China. The new plant is also expected to create synergies with Sabics two existing joint ventures SINOPEC Sabic Tianjin Petrochemical (SSTPC) and Sabic FUJIAN Petrochemicals (SFPC) in the delivery of differentiated solutions and products. Building on its expanded footprint and continuous growth in China, Sabic will continue to leverage its strengths in manufacturing and supply while helping to strengthen innovation-led development for the chemical industry, not just in China, but across the world. --TardeArabia News Service The main entrance of the Houston Zoo at Hermann Park Drive in 2023. Houston Zoo A Florida family's Houston Zoo trip was ruined Sunday when their luggage was stolen from their car. Now, they've got their belongings back, Houston police said Monday. The family returned to their Tesla Model 3 in the Hermann Park lot around 4 p.m. to find high-end handbags, cash and other personal items, said Houston Police Department spokesman Victor Senties. The family told ABC13 that the stolen items were worth $15,000. Advertisement Article continues below this ad They won't press any charges, however, since the items were returned, Senties told the Chronicle. HPD's Auto Theft Division will look to see if any other burglaries in the area are connected to this one. My understanding is this person; we dont know who if its actually the same person who took the property but someone did reach out to them via social media and stated that they knew who the individual was and that they wanted to return the property," Senties said. "So apparently, they communicated via social media and that person returned the property to the hotel where they have been staying. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to the theft report and HPD, the vehicle didnt appear to have any damage. The family submitted surveillance footage from their car to the Auto Theft Division. TotalEnergies has signed an agreement to sell its 50 per cent stake in Total PARCO Pakistan (TPPL) to Gunvor Group, a leading global commodities trading company. The transaction reflects the selective strategy of TotalEnergies in Marketing & Services focused on core geographies with growth and transitioning opportunities. TPPL is a 50/50 joint venture between TotalEnergies Marketing and Services and Pak-Arab Refinery Limited (PARCO) in Pakistan with a retail network of more than 800 service stations, fuel logistics, and lubricants activities. The new entity will continue its retail business under the existing Total Parco brand, and its lubricants business under the Total brand for five years in Pakistan, continuing to serve its customers. The acquisition remains subject to authorisation by the relevant authorities and related agreements. --TradeArabia News Service Technomak, a turn key EPC company specialising in field of oil and gas, FPSO and renewable energy, will add another 500,000 square feet in Hamriyah Free Zone (HFZA) in Sharjah to build a new factory. This will increase the total area of its facilities in the free zone to 1.8 million sq ft. This expansion brings Technomaks investment in HFZA to AED661 million ($180 million), up from AED440.7 million, reflecting the free zones competitive advantages and its appeal to international investors. It will boost the company's plant production capacity from 16,000 to 28,000 tonnes per annum of modular steel structures. Technomak is a specialist in modular control rooms and data centres, offering process design and extensive modularisation solutions for both offshore and onshore projects including topsides for FPSO, HVAC/HVDC platform for offshore and Subsea structure for offshore. Signing of MoU The major expansion was announced during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Technomak and HFZA. The event was attended by Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of HFZA, and Mohammed Hanifa, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Technomak, along with other senior officials and stakeholders from both sides. Founded in 2004, Technomak employs 1,500 people worldwide and has completed over 600 projects across global markets. The company headquartered in Hamriyah freezone is a leading EPC provider in Middle East, with operations spanning from Australia, US, Africa and Far East. Global competitive advantage Al Mazrouei emphasised that the growth in company investments within the Free Zone mirrors the high quality and efficiency of the services offered. He attributed HFZAs status as a premier global investment destination for specialised industries to the wise vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. He stated: The expansion of our clients' investments and their activities from Sharjah to international markets signifies the competitive advantages we provide in terms of services, strategic location, and our attentiveness to investor needs. This not only enhances their business but also supports their growth and development. We are committed to this approach and will spare no effort to offer all necessary facilities to prioritise the interests of our customers. Business-friendly environment Haxer Ali, Chief Executive Officer of Technomak, said: "We chose HFZA as our primary hub due to Sharjah's strategic geographical location, the state-of-the-art infrastructure available, and the favourable policies and legal regulations that support business growth." He added: "Our decision to expand in HFZA was also influenced by the business-friendly economic conditions, the emirate's proximity to key regional and global markets, and the easy access to skilled labour. These factors contributed to our decision to enhance our global service capabilities and meet our clients' project requirements effectively."--TradeArabia News Service In May 2023, the Natrona County Board of Commissioners voted 4-1 to transfer a liquor license from the now-defunct Racks strip club owned by Sonny Pilcher to a business run by his former bar manager. The license transfer to Mile High Tight Ends was approved with the stipulation that Pilcher, who pled guilty to tax fraud in 2014 and served a year in prison, would have nothing to do with the new business. The approval also stipulated the business wouldn't be a strip club. On Tuesday, the county commissioners will again consider transferring the full retail liquor license, this time to BFS Official LLC. The notice of application for transfer of ownership of the license lists the address of BFS as 1910 Talc Road, the address for Racks. The application doesn't specify a reason for the transfer. BFS filed for incorporation in 2022. The property is owned by Wyoming Secure Properties LLC, Lisa A. Burridge, agent. The liquor license transfer is the latest chapter in the strip club's saga. In 2013, 24-year-old James "Kade" Baldwin was shot to death in the Racks parking lot. A Pennsylvania man was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 30 to 50 years in prison. Baldwin was a two-time cancer survivor whose family said had abhorred violence since childhood. Before Racks closed, Pilcher confirmed that motorcycle gangs from Colorado had been involved in the club's operations, including recruiting dancers from out of state. The county commissioners will consider the license transfer at their regular meeting at 5 p.m. Tuesday at the Natrona County Courthouse, 200 S. Center St. Other business The commissioners will also recognize Emily Birkle of Casper as this year's recipient of the county commissioners' renewal scholarship. At their work session from 2:50 to 5 p.m., the commissioners will open bids for Webb Creek Ranches Lot 2A. Parks director Michael Brown will update the board about Hell's Half Acre and the Casper Mountain Trails Center construction. The Wyoming Department of Transportation will give a presentation about the 2025 draft of the State Transportation Improvement Plan. The public comment period ends Sept. 1. Students cross Solo Street at Sonora Street on their way first day of school Monday, Aug. 28, 2023, near Henderson Elementary School in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Houston is hurtling toward the district's first day of school on Aug. 12. Students will encounter more changes in its second year of state-appointed leadership. Nearly half, or 130 schools, of the district's 274 will execute Superintendent Mike Miles' controversial reforms. More than 40 schools begin their first year in his New Education System. Students return to school over two weeks earlier than the previous academic year. Here's what you need to know for the First Day of School. When will the district be hosting events for parents on campus? Many orientation and Meet the Teacher events are scheduled for the week before school starts. You can check with your campus for event details. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A Pre-K enrollment event will be held on Aug. 9 at Milby High School. THE REPORT CARD: Subscribe to the Houston Chronicle's weekly newsletter recapping HISD news What do bus routes look like this year? Bus stops for 3,000 students in the district's school choice program could be up to 3 miles, up from 2 miles, from their homes this year. In most cases, students who are not attending their zoned campus will have a bus stop at their zoned middle or high school. There will be about 423 bus routes, down from 508, for the upcoming school year. The district said it would share pick-up and drop-off location information with families in July. The district did not immediately comment on whether parents have received this transportation information. Advertisement Article continues below this ad How long is the school year? The district moved up its start date after passing a plan that would exempt it from a state law requiring public schools start no earlier than the fourth Monday in August. The last day of school will be June 4 for students and June 5 for teachers. Mark your calendars: Winter Break is Dec. 23 to Jan. 3 and Spring Break is March 10 to 14. June 6 through 12 are designated possible make up days. Beginning-of-the-year benchmark exams will be Aug. 20 through 22, the second week of school. And gifted and talented testing requests are open until Sept. 16. EXTENDED SCHOOL YEAR: Here are the important dates to know for the 2024-2025 school year Advertisement Article continues below this ad Anthony Singleton, dean of students, greets students as they arrive for the first day of school Monday, Aug. 28, 2023, at Phillis Wheatley High School in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer What school supplies do I need? School supplies and uniform requirements vary by campus. Tax-free weekend a break from sales taxes on clothes and school supplies is Aug. 9-11. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Has the district filled all teacher vacancies? The district saw more than 4,000 employee departures in June, of which more than 2,400 were teachers. The Chronicle requested more information on vacancies and hiring. The district commented over email that it hired principals at all but one campus and that the district has 43 teaching vacancies, adding that the district's north has no teaching vacancies. It is unclear to what extent those vacancies were filled with uncertified teachers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When is the next school board meeting? The next school board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, the same evening as many campus meet the teacher events. 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. Michelle Williams speaks during the public comment portion as of the Houston ISD's District Advisory Committee meeting at the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center, Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023, in Houston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Michelle Williams, president of the Houston Education Association, using a Kagan Cooperative Learning book to speak against the approval of new evaluation system for principals during the public comment session of the Houston ISD Board of Trustees meeting on Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023 at Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center in Houston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Houston Education Association president Michelle Williams filed a complaint against Houston ISD officials saying allegations against her were not investigated thoroughly by the district and that she was removed "without due process" from her teaching position. The filing named Laura Stout, West Division superintendent; Kylene Vasquez, senior executive director; and Lauren Mailhiot, executive director of feeder "for their violations of the Educator Code of Ethics," Williams wrote. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The agency assigned a reference number to the complaint Monday and told Williams she had five days to submit documents for review. RECORD TEACHER DEPARTURES: Search how your campus was impacted In disciplinary memos sent March 6, Stout took issue with a livestreamed video posted on X that Stout believed Williams recorded in her Shadowbriar Elementary School classroom. Stout also took issue with posts in February that Stout said demonstrated a "pattern of behavior" of posting during the workday. Williams was reassigned to work at a bus depot. Williams maintained in the June hearing that she keeps a decorated set in her home for her YouTube channel and that she uses a scheduling app to post on X during the day. Stout acknowledged she was wrong about the video and that she learned of the scheduling app after the memo. Following that hearing, an independent examiner concluded in July that the proposed nonrenewal of Williams' contract was not supported by a preponderance of evidence for 11 policy reasons that the district presented. The examiner also noted that "some of the 2023-2024 accusations raised by HISD were based in part on incomplete, contradictory, retaliatory evidence and could not be accurately relied upon." Advertisement Article continues below this ad The district's state-appointed Board of Managers will have the final say on Williams' job status, tentatively on Aug. 15, the union leader said. The district paid $571.50 to the law firm Spalding Nichols Lamp Langlois, whose attorneys represented the district in the proceedings involving Williams, according to a district Public Information Office response. Asking the state to investigate, Williams wrote in this August filing, "The individuals mentioned above knowingly made false statements alleging that I livestreamed from my classroom and posted on social media during school hours. These allegations were not investigated thoroughly, nor was any camera footage from the campus reviewed. Without due process, I was removed from my position as a 3rd-grade math teacher at Shadowbriar Elementary." Williams, who leads the smaller of Houston's two teacher unions, also wrote that she was denied the opportunity to provide a statement and representation by a district official who reports to Stout. "Additionally, these individuals engaged in deceptive practices regarding official school policies and my student data," Williams wrote. "They did not adhere to written local school board policies and state and federal laws regarding evaluation and dismissal of personnel. They also coerced my principal into issuing retaliatory memos following my interaction with Floyd Mike Miles, the appointed superintendent of Houston ISD." Advertisement Article continues below this ad Williams also asked for a review of HISD policies and procedures regarding educator evaluation, dismissal and student data "to ensure fair and ethical treatment of all staff members." HISD issued a brief statement Monday on the filing. Check out the latest news in Vietnam today: Politics -- The Peoples Court of Hanoi on Monday sentenced Trinh Van Quyet, former chairman of FLC Group JSC, to 21 years in prison for fraudulent appropriation of property and stock market manipulation. The court also asked Quyet and his sister Trinh Thi Minh Hue to pay investors over VND1.7 trillion (US$67.7 million) in compensation. -- North Korean Ambassador Ri Seung Guk arrived in Vietnam on Monday to take office. He said he was the first ambassador that North Korea had sent abroad after the COVID-19 pandemic. -- Costa Rican Minister of Foreign Trade Manuel Tovar, empowered by Costa Rican President Rica Rodrigo Chaves, on Monday announced and handed over a diplomatic note to the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade, affirming its recognition of Vietnam as a market economy. Costa Rica is the 73rd country in the world to recognize Vietnam's market economy status. Society -- Border guards at Lao Bao International Border Gate in Quang Tri Province, north-central Vietnam burst a ring organizing illegal entry for foreigners into Vietnam, detaining a Laotian, two Vietnamese, and six Chinese. The six Chinese men said they sought to come to Ho Chi Minh City and Cambodia to establish hi-tech swindling rings, according to the provincial Border Guard Command. -- As many as 18 enterprises have registered to lease over 100 hectares of land in the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) Can Tho in the namesake southern city, making up over one-third of the area of the industrial park, while site clearance for the industrial park has yet to finish, VSIP Can Tho JSC informed on Monday. -- The Department of Planning and Investment in Long An Province, a neighbor of Ho Chi Minh City, said on Monday that it is seeking investors for a residential area project which carries a price tag of VND7 trillion ($278.9 million) and can accommodate 30,000 people in Duc Hoa District. Business -- Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, in a meeting with leaders of the State Bank of Vietnam and various ministries and agencies on Monday, called for solutions to utilize residents' deposits, totaling over VND15,000 trillion ($597.2 billion), in banks for production and business activities. World News -- Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday after hundreds of people were killed in a crackdown on demonstrations that began as protests against job quotas and swelled into a movement demanding her downfall, according to Reuters. -- Wall Street's main indexes tumbled on Monday, as fears of the United States tipping into recession following weak economic data last week rippled through global markets, Reuters reported. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! As many as 18 enterprises have registered to lease over 100 hectares of land at Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) Can Tho in the namesake southern city, making up over one-third of the area of the industrial park, VSIP Can Tho JSC said on Monday. Site clearance for the industrial park has yet to finish, the firm noted. Land will be handed over to these enterprises in the second quarter of next year. Nguyen Thanh Tao, director of the Can Tho Land Fund Development Center, said the city had paid 561 out of the 602 households affected by the industrial park project over VND1.1 trillion (US$43.7 million) in compensation to take back nearly 262 hectares of land. The city has also approved resettlement policies for the affected households, with 70 receiving resettlement land lots and 167 others eligible to purchase them. Tao affirmed the city's commitment to handing over the entire cleared site for the project by September this year. Work on the VSIP Can Tho project began on September 9 last year, making it the first VSIP to be built in the Mekong Delta. The first phase of the project covers more than 293 hectares of land in Vinh Thanh District and carry a price tag of over VND3.717 trillion ($147.4 million). Once completed, it will provide employment for around 20,000-30,000 workers in Can Tho and neighboring provinces. VSIP is a joint venture between Becamex IDC Corporation, under the Peoples Committee of southern Binh Duong Province, and Sembcorp Development Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Singapores Sembcorp Industries, a leading energy and urban solution provider. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A mother-to-be in Thanh Hoa Province, north-central Vietnam has been infected with diphtheria, the provincial Center for Disease Control confirmed on Monday. She was identified as 17-year-old Ph.L.M., a native of Lai Chau Province in northern Vietnam and currently living in Muong Lat, a mountainous and border district in Thanh Hoa. M., who is in the eighth month of pregnancy, had not left her place of residence over the past two weeks, according to her family. A few days ago, she took over-the-counter medicine to soothe her sore throat but saw no improvement. The young woman visited an obstetrics clinic in Muong Lat on Sunday to seek medical care for her sore throat and difficulty swallowing, the Muong Lat Medical Center confirmed. She was transferred to the Muong Lat General Hospital for further treatment after being diagnosed with probable diphtheria at the clinic. Local health agencies then made a list of those who had close contact with her and put them under quarantine, while disinfecting the patients home and the surroundings. So far, 19 close contacts have been reported. Four of them experienced a sore throat, while the rest are in normal condition. The agencies also ramped up efforts to raise public awareness about diphtheria prevention and control in the area. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Nine has acquired Israeli documentary We Will Dance Again about the Nova Music Festival to air October 7, marking the one-year anniversary of the tragedy. Commissioned soon after October 7 by Bad Boys studio Sipur, We Will Dance Again tells the stories of more than a dozen survivors in their own words. The documentary pieces together their exclusive video footage with that of the perpetrators themselves and CCTV cameras. We Will Dance Again has already sold to Paramount+ in the U.S., co-producers BBC Storyville in the UK, HOT Channel 8 in Israel and Norways VGTV. Chris Grant of distributor Osmosis Global said: We are seeing tremendous momentum for this critically important documentary from broadcasters and streamers around the world. The film is helmed director Yariv Mozer, who last collaborated with Sipur and MGM Television on The Devils Confession: The Lost Eichmann Tapes. Source: Deadline About 180,000 Houston ISD students will begin the first day of classes for the 2024-25 school year on Aug. 12. This year, the district is planning to expand the New Education System, develop a new teacher evaluation process and put a $4.4 billion bond on the ballot. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Thousands of Houston ISD students and teachers will return to classes Monday, beginning their second academic year since the contentious state takeover of the largest school district in Texas. After a disruptive first year for many campuses, HISD is not expected to introduce as many new polices and changes to schools during the 2024-25 school year, but there are still plenty of new developments on the horizon. The district plans to expand the New Education System to approximately half of all schools, develop a custom pay-for-performance teacher evaluation system and put a $4.4 billion bond on the ballot in November. Heres a look at what students, parents, employees and community members can expect to see in the 2024-25 school year: Advertisement Article continues below this ad THE REPORT CARD: Subscribe to the Houston Chronicles weekly newsletter recapping HISD news New Education System program expansion State-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles introduced the NES model during the previous academic year to improve student outcomes at 85, or about a third, of the districts campuses, including 28 schools in the Wheatley, Kashmere and North Forest high school feeder patterns. The controversial program will be expanding to 45 additional campuses during the upcoming school year based on their performance on the Texas Education Agencys unofficial campus accountability ratings, meaning a total of 130 schools will be part of the program this year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Potential school bond November vote HISDs Board of Managers is expected to vote this week on the districts proposal to put a $4.4 billion bond on the ballot in November for Houston voters to consider. The bond, if approved, would allocate about $2 billion for rebuilding and renovating schools, and $1.35 billion for lead abatement, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning improvements and security upgrades. It would also provide $1 billion for expanding pre-K, building three new career and technical education centers and technology upgrades. The proposal would be the largest school bond in state history if approved, but it would not raise taxes. It would be the districts first bond in more than a decade to address what it describes as a critical point of disrepair and significant structural needs at many campuses. Advertisement Article continues below this ad However, it has seen pushback from several Houston ISD teachers, parents and community members due to their opposition to the state takeover, concerns over financial accountability and a lack of trust in district leaders, especially Miles and the appointed school board members. TEA A-F accountability rankings release The TEA plans to release A-F accountability ratings based on the performance of campuses and school districts during the 2023-24 school year on Aug. 15. The ratings are a key metric toward the progress of ending the state takeover of HISD. The release comes after more than 100 school districts sued the TEA last year and successfully halted the release of the rankings of the 2022-23 school year after arguing that they did not get enough advance notice about the changes. Advertisement Article continues below this ad However, HISD, which was not part of the lawsuit, calculated and released unofficial accountability ratings in January that showed 123 schools would have received D and Fs, or failing grades, in 2023 if the TEA had released scores. Miles said in a recent interview with City Cast Houston that he expects there the number of D and F schools will drop by probably about two-thirds when the TEA releases the ratings this year. To end the takeover, HISD must not have any schools that earn consecutive failing ratings from the TEA. Teacher evaluation system development HISD plans to develop and obtain approval for a custom pay-for-performance evaluation system for teachers this year that it plans to implement during the 2025-26 school year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The district had planned to use a new teacher appraisal system last year, but the districts largest teachers union sued the district for failing to obtain input from committees required under state law. After a judge issued a restraining order, it opted to use a version of the Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System, which is the state-approved teacher appraisal system. HISDs Board of Managers approved a District of Innovation plan in December that exempts the district from a state law mandating the use of a system developed by the state or district- and campus-level committees. HISD plans to use this exemption to develop its own evaluation and compensation system, although, if approved, it wouldnt go into effect until the next year. Defined autonomy framework implementation After implementing several new mandates last year, HISD released a Defined Autonomy Framework in May outlining more specifics on which of its new rules will apply to each of 267 campuses during the upcoming school year. The framework states which requirements over budgeting, curriculum, scheduling and other areas apply to certain schools based on their classification into different four groups magnet schools, A and B rated-schools, C and D-rated schools or NES schools. The appendix clarifies that only teachers at NES campuses will be required to use Multiple Response Strategies this year after several teachers at non-NES campuses reported feeling pressured to use them. It states that all high schools, including NES campuses, are not required to follow a policy requiring students to bring cones with them to the bathroom. As an American I think Harry and Meghan should go to Colombia and stay there As an American, I cant help but fantasise that on one of their not-royal globetrotting tours this time to perilous Colombia, despite serious travel warnings the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will finally depart from the USA and choose one of their far-flung destinations to settle in permanently. After all, they seem to have worn out their welcome in both the US and UK. The announcement of their upcoming trip to Colombia, coming on the heels of their equally pointless pseudo-royal visit to Nigeria last May, raises eyebrows from Hollywood to Holyrood. While the couple and their foreign hosts represent these visits as in connection with global philanthropic endeavours, the reality is likely much more nuanced and perhaps less noble. It is dumbfounding that the Sussexes would choose to travel to countries with current government-issued travel advisories for crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping, especially considering Harrys stance that he wont bring my wife back to this country [the UK] due to safety concerns. This is downright ludicrous. Are Harry and Meghan genuinely concerned about their safety, or could this be just another strategic smokescreen? The Sussexes have an impressive track record of hypocrisy. The pair said they relocated to the US to raise their family away from media scrutiny, but nevertheless they have sought every opportunity to court the media when it serves their purposes to publicise their activities or to hawk their wares (dog biscuits or jam, anyone?) So what is the real reason Meghan wont be coming to the UK? Could the couples concerns be less about her safety and more about avoiding, in the UK, the consequences of their unseemly words and behavior? Could the security excuse prevent Meghan from having to face the family and the nation she has disrespected? Then, the Sussexes jealousy of the Prince and Princess of Wales is impossible to overlook. Here in America, Princess Catherine is much more popular than Meghan Markle. The Sussexes announcements or activities have sometimes coincided with important events for other members of the Royal Family, such as when Ms Markle announced the launch of her lifestyle brand hours before the Princess of Wales return to public duties at Trooping the Colour on 15 June. Their desperation for relevance, intertwined with jealousy and a desire to eclipse the Waleses, may be the reason for the Sussexes faux-royal tours. I, at least, had to suppress a wave of nausea reading last weeks headline in Americas People magazine: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Set to Embark on Official Visit to Colombia. While Sussex mouthpieces in the US media may be framing Harry and Meghans visit to Colombia as an official engagement, this is a ludicrous and misleading characterization. The Montecito Marauders represent no government, nor do they hold any positions that would allow them to conduct any official business. Their titles and royal connections do not grant them any authority to represent the Crown or the UK. Nor do they have any position in the US, other than that of social media influencers. This trip, like the Nigeria one, appears to be little more than a vanity project aimed at creating the illusion of status and importance that the pair currently lack and desperately seek. Suggesting their visit is an official engagement risks misleading the public about their standing and influence, further highlighting the gap between their lofty aspirations and the reality of their situation. If Harry and Meghan truly seek to fulfill meaningful roles, they must, on some level, regret the matchless ones they cast off. Like Harrys great great uncle, the Duke of Windsor, and his wife Wallis Simpson, it seems the Sussexes are condemned to selfish existences, alienated from family, and always grasping for relevance. If they could not embrace the institution that provided them the only thing that made them extraordinary, they should have certainly refrained from undermining and defaming it. Most unbecoming of all, in direct disrespect for the wishes of Harrys beloved grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, they continue to use their royal associations as a means of self-promotion while remaining terminally detached from the respect associated with the Monarchy. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex would seem to believe, like Oscar Wilde, that the only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about. In their relentless pursuit of attention, Harry and Meghan seem to have burned all their bridges and squandered the goodwill they once enjoyed. If they were different people, this might not matter; they could forge a new path free from the shadows of their past. But the only currency they possess is their connections to their past. As they embark on their carefully staged adventures, they risk being eternally tethered to the very institutions they claim to have cast off forever foisting upon the world their torturous conundrum. Rihanna has made a triumphant return to Barbados Crop Over festival and after five years away, her outfit didnt disappoint. The 36-year-old opted for a nearly naked mesh bodysuit, which was adorned with red and gold jewels that wound across her body, creating a halter-neck bralet before descending down her legs. The look was completed with a matching headpiece and impressively sizeable wings, comprised of yellow, orange, fuchsia and red feathers, which trailed down to the floor. The artist and beauty entrepreneur is a regular at Crop Over, a festival that takes place each year in Barbados to celebrate the end of a successful sugar harvest. Since rocketing to fame as a singer in the noughties, Rihanna has attended several times, collaborating with Lauren Austin Designs on her increasingly ornate outfits. Speaking to Nylon in 2018, Austin spoke highly about her work with Rihanna. I enjoy working with Rihanna because she constantly challenges the norm in the fashion world, pushes the boundaries, and is not afraid to break the rules, she said. She does not care about what others think and she does and wears what she wants. She is an amazing person very easygoing, fun, and friendly. Prior to this year, Rihanna had not attended Crop Over since 2019, with the pandemic and her two pregnancies having put a halt to her visits. She welcomed her first son, RZA, in May 2022, and her second son, Riot, in August last year, with long-term partner A$AP Rocky. Jamie McCarthy - Getty Images While she has a portfolio of properties in Beverly Hills and Hollywood (and who could forget her two-year stint in London in that St Johns Wood mansion?), Rihanna still considered Barbados, where she was born and grew up, to be her home. Barbados will always be home, she told Interview earlier this year. One hundred per cent. Im still a citizen after all these years. Kevin Mazur - Getty Images Rihanna's festival return comes shortly after her hotly anticipated new haircare range, Fenty Hair, became available to buy. The nine-piece range consists of universal staples like a reparative shampoo, nourishing conditioner, deep conditioner and heat protectant, along with stylers like a curl-defining cream, strong-hold gel and edge-control gel. You Might Also Like Welcome Guest! You are here: Home Bangladesh Hindu leader: BNP, Jamaat ensured Temples, Hindus are not targeted Categorically refuting the reports in a section of Indian Media about attacks on Bangladeshi Hindus, the Bangladesh Jatiya Hindu Mohajote said the leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) ensured the safety of their homes and Hindu places of worship Wednesday August 7, 2024 1:14 AM , ummid.com Social Media Desk Categorically refuting the reports in a section of Indian Media about attacks on Bangladeshi Hindus, the Bangladesh Jatiya Hindu Mohajote said the leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) ensured the safety of their homes and Hindu places of worship. Bangladesh Jatiya Hindu Mohajote, or Bangladesh National Hindu Mahajot, is the grand alliance of 23 small and big Hindu religious organizations of Bangladesh. After Sheikh Hasina's resignation last afternoon, the Hindu community of this country thought they would be attacked on a large scale, and there'd be incidents of arson and looting. But, leaders of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat instructed their functionaries to ensure that Hindu homes are not attacked and temples are protected, Advocate Gobinda Pramanik, Secretary General of Bangladesh Jatio Hindu Mohajote, said in a video statement. And we actually saw that Temples are being protected, he said. Advocate Gobinda Pramaniks video statement came in the wake of anti-government protests in Bangladesh and the consequent resignation of Sheikh Hasina as Prime Minister. Sheikh Hasina who was in power in Bangladesh since last 15 years resigned as Prime Minister Monday and fled the country. She is currently residing at the Hindon Air Force base in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad - around 30 km from Indian capital Delhi. According to reports, she is in conversation with a number of countries for asylum. Sheikh Hasinas resignation came after months of violent protests by students which saw deaths of more than 300 . Amid the anti-government protests in Bangladesh, a section of Indian media in a blatant communal coverage claimed widespread violence and attacks on Bangladeshi Hindus. Advocate Gobinda Pramanik however refuted all these reports saying homes of some Hindu leaders who were known supporters of Sheikh Hasina were attacked, like her supporters from the Muslim community. The houses of some Hindu leaders of the Awami League who were very active as well as those of some Muslim leaders were attacked, Advocate Pramanik said. Some opportunistic people attacked a few local temples, but no big incident, he added. Advocate Gobinda Pramanik also slammed the Indian media, especially the Republic TV. Today, we saw Republic TV from India spreading rumours and making strange claims, and expressing pain that Sheikh Hasina had to resign and leave the country, he said. One Republic TV reporter called me. I told him if you are so worried about Hasina, remove PM Modi and announce Sheikh Hasina as your PM. She will protect India and also the Seven Sisters. "You are repeatedly saying that Seven Sisters would not exist if Hasina is not there. Now, this is a big opportunity for you. You make Sheikh Hasina India's PM, Advocate Gobinda Pramanik can be heard saying in the video message. Photos, videos of Muslims protecting temples viral Meanwhile, photos and videos of Muslims sitting outside Hindu temples and ensuring their safety are viral on different social media platforms. In one social media post, a student leader is seen appealing the masses from the mosque loudspeaker to maintain communal harmony and protect Hindu minorities. In another post, a student taking to the social media platform X accused the BJP and the Indian media of spreading misinformation and fake news. He said contrary to what is being reported by the Indian media, Muslims in Bangladesh are actually protecting Hindus and the Hindu places of worship . S Jaishankar hails 'groups' protecting minorities Commenting on the latest development in the neighbouring country, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar in a briefing in Parliament expressed India's concerns over the violence against minorities in Bangladesh, at the same time praising the protection provided to the minorities. "There are reports of violence against the minorities and their properties at various places of Bangladesh. But, the full extent of this is still not clear. "There are also reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure the protection of minorities and their well being. We welcome that", Jaishankar said in Rajya Sabha. Speaking in the Indian Parliament's Upper House, Jaishankar also said that there were an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals in the country, of them about 9,000 were students, adding that the bulk of students returned home in the month of July. The Human rights activists and lawyers in a statement also ruled out attacks of Hindus or the Hindu Temples. They said the students protest has not been against Hindus or other minorities. It is the goal of the next generation to build Bangladesh where it is free for all citizens, especially the minority groups. The student leaders leading the movement have called upon their cadre to form small groups to protect Hindu temples, Mohammed Rakibul Hakim, Human Rights activist, said. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Will United States Lead A War Against Iran? Fears of a regional war in the Middle East spiked after Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets towards Israel. This was in retaliation to the Israeli covert operations, which killed a senior Hezbollah commander and a top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Tuesday August 6, 2024 12:08 PM , Asad Mirza Fears of a regional war in the Middle East spiked after Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets towards Israel. This was in retaliation to the Israeli covert operations, which killed a senior Hezbollah commander and a top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. The killing of Hamas Polit Bureau Head Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31, apparently by a covert IED hidden two months ago and remotely detonated, does not portend well for peace in the region and Gaza. Haniyeh was on top of the elimination list of Mossad and other agencies as Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to destroy Hamas in the wake of the October 7, 2023 attacks, which had an unprecedented success for Hamaswhen not only nearly 1,200 Israelis were killed but 250 of them were taken hostage by Hamas. These hostages became the key going forward, as their release remains a priority for Bibis administration in Israel, due to months-long domestic protests by distraught families and friends. The international community has been besieged with the fear that the Israel-Hamas War should not escalate beyond its immediate periphery. Half-baked efforts have been made by several countries including Qatar and China, to rein in the warring parties. Meanwhile, Hamas mustered moral and material support from Hezbollah (Lebanon, Syria) and Houthis (Yemen and the Red Sea), Kataib Hezbollah, and other Shia militias (Iraq) even as other non-state actors kept the escalation under the threshold, presumably with the alleged connivance of Iran. On the other hand, Netanyahu continued to exploit the strategic weakness of his ironclad support from Washington. His last weeks oration and address to the US Congress and repeated standing ovations could only confirm that Palestinians were expendable. The financial assistance, weapons, and political support were once again assured to Bibi by Biden, Harris, and Trump, even as they urged him to close the ceasefire deal quickly. Some say, hoping for Trumps victory, Netanyahu is free to do as he pleases until November. According to a Channel 12 News report, US President Joe Biden told Netanyahu Stop bullshitting me! during their conversation on Thursday, last. His remarks came in the context of Israeli-US collaboration in preparation for a potential full-scale conflict with Iran and its allies. Concluding the conversation, President Biden said: Don't take the president for granted. It is pertinent to note that the Biden-Netanyahu conversation took place days after the Haniyehs assassination in Iran, but such American exclamations are usually not taken seriously by the Israelis. Iran and Israel suffer from Mutually Assured Destruction Syndrome (MAD) and consider one another as an existential threat, knowing too well that the open war between them would be disastrous for the region and the world, and the international community will do whatever it takes to stop that. Hence, although worried, US White House spokesman John Kirby reiterated that Washington did not see an all-out conflict in the region as imminent or inevitable and that it was working to prevent that from happening. But this time the killing of Haniyeh in Tehran is a typical redline, crossed by Israelis, that will force Iranians to respond visibly in kind, as basically it implies an Iranian humiliation in the international comity. Iran may not take the risk of expanding the war directly, but through its proxies such as Hamas, Hezbollah, Houthis that can carry out the task with plausible deniability. A direct action only could reduce the intensity of humiliation since it happened within a few hours of the new Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkians swearing-in ceremony in the presence of many leaders from the region and beyond. Khamanei and Pezeshkian have both vowed an avenging response and punishment, but what costs they are willing to absorb will decide the quantum, time, and manner of the Iranian response. Hopefully the chain reaction will be avoided and pragmatism will prevail. Israel killing several top leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah has redeemed Netanyahus credibility with his people, to some extent. Iran and regional armed groups aligned with the country are preparing to respond to Israel over the assassinations of Haniyeh and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr earlier this week. An Al Jazeera report describing Iran, Lebanon, Jordan as self-styled axis-of-resistance for being at odds with United States-Israeli hegemony in the region, says that Iran and its allies will seek to restore deterrence against Israel without provoking a full-blown regional war, while warning that the space for miscalculation is razor-thin. One of the lines of argument in Iran right now is that they need to show a firm response and show their readiness to enter into a war in order to de-escalate, Hamidreza Azizi, an expert on Iran and a non-resident fellow with the Middle East Council on Global Affairs think tank in Doha, Qatar, told Al Jazeera. Nicholas Blanford, an expert on Hezbollah with the Atlantic Council, a Washington, DC-based think tank told Al Jazeera that he thinks the overall strategic outlook remains the same in the sense that Hezbollah does not want to escalate this into a massive war. Some analysts warn that a substantial attack by the axis-of-resistance risks killing Israeli military personnel or civilians, thereby raising the spectre of a major regional conflict. Mohanad Hage Ali, an expert on Lebanon and a senior fellow with Carnegie Middle East Centre in Beirut, told Al Jazeera that Hezbollah has announced it will retaliate against Israel for killing Shukr and that it is likely to participate in a joint attack with Iran. But the bigger question is whether the US under a Democratic administration will try to quell the regional war from escalating or try to end the Iranian hegemony in the region, once and for all. Going by the Democratic Partys track record, President Biden, might not give the go ahead for a full-out war supporting Israel, with the American presidential elections just a few months away. Also he would not like to leave behind a legacy, which would make him the first Democratic President to order a war. Just a reminder that most of the wars led by America like the Korean War, Vietnam War and Iraq War were spearheaded when the Republicans were at the helm of affairs. (The writer, Asad Mirza, is a New Delhi-based senior commentator on international and strategic affairs, and a media consultant.) Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Fast food chain Dairy Queen is hosting the How Do you DQ? contest, inviting patrons to share their favorite meal combos. Dairy Queen (DQ) Fast food chain Dairy Queen is hosting the How Do you DQ? contest, inviting patrons to share their favorite meal combos. Dairy Queen (DQ) Fast food chain Dairy Queen is hosting the How Do you DQ? contest, inviting patrons to share their favorite meal combos. Dairy Queen (DQ) Whats your favorite DQ meal a Belt Buster with a Butterfinger Blizzard, or a Cookie Cupfection with chicken strips? Fast food chain Dairy Queen is hosting the How Do you DQ? contest, inviting patrons to share their favorite meal combos. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The winner will create the perfect trio comprising a favorite entree, a sweet treat, and their favorite Coca-Cola drink. "DQ has not done a contest like this before; this is brand new," said Morgan Alexander, media spokesperson for DQ. "Texas Dairy Queen Operators' Council always looks for fun opportunities to engage with fans and give back." Submissions close on Aug. 23, followed by a bracket-style voting period from Aug. 26-29. One winner to be announced on DQ's social media page on Aug. 29 will recieve a grand prize of a $1,000 DQ gift card, free Coca-Cola for a year, and DQ swag. Advertisement Article continues below this ad By Tien at HA NOI Ashraf Ahmed, Chairman of the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), is leading a 42-member business delegation from Bangladesh to Viet Nam. The visit, until August 9, aims to bolster economic ties and explore new business opportunities between the two countries. Bangladesh has seen substantial socioeconomic growth over the past decades. Ahmed expressed the country's ambition to become a prosperous and developed nation by 2041, with the DCCI playing a crucial role in this journey by promoting trade and business with global partners, including Viet Nam. Exploring opportunities The delegation, comprising exporters, importers, manufacturers and entrepreneurs, represents 23 diverse sectors such as agro and food processing, financial services, healthcare, construction materials, electronics, ready-made garments (RMG), IT and ITES, ceramics, polymers and chemicals, pharmaceuticals, FMCG, logistics and tourism. The visiting companies are keen to establish business collaborations in Viet Nam, recognising its advanced manufacturing technologies and efficient supply chain management. "Bangladesh and Viet Nam have enjoyed a deep and evolving trade relationship since establishing diplomatic relations in 1973. The current trade volume of over US$1.2 billion has the potential to reach US$2 billion soon," said Ahmed. Strengthening bilateral relations The delegation's itinerary includes meetings with key personnel from the Ministry of Industry and Trade in Ha Noi, as well as business forums and B2B meetings in both Ha Noi and HCM City. More than 300 Vietnamese business leaders are expected to meet the delegation to explore avenues for collaboration. "We are interested in learning from Viet Nam's expertise in integrating Industry 4.0 technologies and enhancing manufacturing efficiency," Ahmed noted. He highlighted potential collaborations in the textile industry, agriculture, ICT, renewable energy and tourism. Mutual benefits Vietnamese businesses stand to gain from partnerships with Bangladeshi firms in several areas. The thriving textile and garment industry in Bangladesh offers opportunities for joint ventures and outsourcing. Bangladesh's pharmaceutical sector, known for affordable generic medicines, presents collaboration prospects in research and development. In IT and software development, Bangladeshi tech firms can offer competitive outsourcing options. The renewable energy sector, particularly solar energy, provides investment opportunities for Vietnamese companies aiming for sustainable development. Additionally, Bangladesh's expertise in aquaculture and crop production can benefit Vietnamese agriculture. DCCI's role in fostering trade The DCCI, with its 5000-member businesses, plays a pivotal role in fostering international trade relations. It organises trade delegations, hosts international trade fairs and provides market intelligence and policy advocacy to help businesses navigate international trade regulations. "Sustainability and green technologies are priorities for us. We promote eco-friendly practices and renewable energy solutions among our members and are keen to explore joint initiatives with Vietnamese counterparts," Ahmed said. Overcoming challenges Bangladeshi businesses face challenges such as regulatory compliance, cultural differences and competition when entering new markets like Viet Nam. Engaging local legal experts, conducting thorough market research and forming local partnerships are strategies to address these challenges. Expectations and future plans Ahmed expects this visit to pave the way for robust business collaborations. The DCCI plans to maintain ongoing communication with Vietnamese counterparts and invite them to Bangladesh to further strengthen partnerships. Notable success stories include Beximco Pharmaceuticals and PRAN Group, which have successfully entered the Vietnamese market, exporting generic medicines and food products, respectively. This visit is anticipated to significantly enhance bilateral trade and business relations, leveraging the strengths of both nations for mutual economic growth. VNS HA NOI Lao Cai Province is seeking for solutions to increase exports of farm produces to China, with the market having more stringent requirements for product quality. At a conference on Tuesday advising exporters, Nguyen Quang Vinh, deputy director of the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said that with thee border gates Lao Cai, Muong Khuong and Bat Xat, Lao Cai plays an important role as a gateway into the country. Agricultural products and food are major products exported via Lao Cai to China, in addition to fertilisers, chemicals and mining products. He cited statistics that Lao Cais export to China was estimated at US$950 million, out of the total trade revenue via border gates of $1.6 billion in the first half of this year. Vinh pointed out that the northern mountainous province has a diversify of products of competitive advantages which have been selected as priorities in development including cinnamon, tea, banana, pineapple, medicinal herbs and pork. Exports to China are changing, Vinh said. Previously, China had not set high requirements for agricultural products and the exports could be implemented through both official and unofficial channels. However, China is now setting high requirements for product quality and food hygiene and safety, which causes difficulties for enterprises, cooperatives and farming households in the province in continuing exporting to this market without making changes, Vinh said. In response, the province has granted codes for growing areas and packaging facilities. Cao Thi Hoa Binh, director of the Department of Plantation and Plant Protection, said that there were 16 growing areas with codes for exports as of the end of 2023, including 15 areas of banana for export to China and one area of tea for export to the EU, the US, Taiwan, and Japan. However, three were revoked due to failure in meeting requirements. The province also had 11 packaging facilities granted with codes for export to China as of the end of 2023, but four were revoked. Binh said that there are still a lot of difficulties in the granting and management of codes for growing areas and packaging facilities. The requirements of import markets, including China, are increasing and updated regularly, she said. However, the awareness of compliance to get and keep the codes remains limited among locals. Meanwhile, management and supervision are difficult due to limited budget and equipment. Major products of the province such as pineapple and medicinal herbs have not been able to be exported officially to China. Regarding cinnamon which has huge plantation areas in Lao Cai, it remains difficult to grant codes for growing areas due to the shortage of instructions. The management of growing area codes in the province is only limited to simply following instructions while capturing and providing information to businesses and farmers is limited due to the shortage of staff and the inadequate information database, Phan Thi Men, director of SUSTECH Consultant Company Limited, said. With regard to Chinas Decree 248 on facility and product registrations for export to China, Men said that to date, more than 3,000 codes have been granted in Viet Nam for export to this market. Some products of Lao Cai have been exported to China such as banana and cassava. However, many potential products have not been able to be exported, partly because Vietnamese enterprises have not been updated with changes in requirements of the import markets to make necessary preparations, she said. Requirements of the Chinese market are changing significantly. It is necessary for exporters to catch up with the changes if they do not want to fall behind, Men said. Other border provinces are also facing similar problems while exporting to China and seeking solutions promote exports to China as well as other countries in the world. The most important solution is to standardise quality of products to meet requirements of China to be able to export via official channels into this market, she stressed. In addition, negotiations to open doors for more products to the Chinese market must be accelerated. Its a must for enterprises, cooperatives and farmers to understand and comply with requirements of the import markets to make necessary preparations, she said. According to Vinh, Lao Cai will focus on developing centralised growing areas meeting standard certifications such as VietGap, organic, HACCP, ISO 22000 in order to expand exports. The province will also enhance links between production, processing and consumption as well as establishing value chains for key products to increase added value for farm produce. Another important solution is to strengthen the application of science and technology in production, preservation and processing to improve quality and create competitive advantages for local products, Vinh stressed. VNS AN GIANG The 100 traditional cakes made from palmyra palm set a Vietnamese record at a cooking competition held on Monday within the framework of the Southern Traditional Cake Festival in the Mekong Delta province of An Giang. The competition aimed to preserve the cultural value of southern traditional cakes made from palmyra palm. At the event, artisans and chefs used local ingredients, including palmyra palm leaves, peel and juice to prepare traditional cakes such as banh bo nuong (grilled rice cake), banh da lon (steamed layer cake) and banh uot tu vi (steamed flat cake). Organisers presented a first prize to a team from the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau, two second prizes to teams from An Giang's Tri Ton District and ong Nai Province and three third prizes to those from Kien Giang Province, HCM City and An Giang's Cho Moi District. The Viet Nam Records Organisation (VietKings) granted a certificate recognising the 100 cakes, made by 10 teams at the competition, as a Vietnamese record to the An Giang Trade and Investment Promotion Centre. Le Trung Hieu, the centres director said the setting of the record not only holds cultural significance but also helps promote and preserve the unique traditional values of the Bay Nui region in An Giang. The recognition is an important milestone that boosts economic and tourism development, and improves the living standards of the Khmer ethnic people in An Giang. The festival, running from August 3-11, attracts the participation of 21 provinces and cities nationwide, with 400 booths featuring traditional cakes, tourism products, items under One Commune One Product (OCOP) programme, regional specialties, and local dishes. VNA/VNS HA NOI Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang, Chairwoman of the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese (OV) Affairs, hosted a reception in Ha Noi on Monday for a delegation of Vietnamese children and teachers from the Republic of Korea (RoK). Hang said that this is the first time the State Committee for OV Affairs has held a trip for those from the RoK to visit cultural and historical relics in Viet Nam to explore the homelands history, and have exchange activities with their peers at home. The official expressed her hope that the trip will not only offer a chance for the delegation to learn and experience national cultural values but also enable them to meet friends of their age to build good memories together in their homeland. Hang thanked parents, teachers, and the Vietnamese Embassy in the RoK for supporting this activity. On behalf of the delegation, o Ngoc Luyen, a lecturer from Kwang Un University, thanked the Deputy FM and leaders of the State Committee on OV Affairs for organising the meaningful trip for OV children, teachers and parents from the RoK. This trip has helped participants enhance their pride of the national history and people of Viet Nam, which is a stepping stone for them to engage in more meaningful programmes heading to the homeland in the future, she stated. VNS SYDNEY The election of State President To Lam by the 13th Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV) Central Committee affirms solidarity within the party, Emeritus Professor Carl Thayer at the University of New South Wales has said in an interview granted to the Viet Nam News Agency. Lam stressed he will continue late Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trongs legacy, be resolve to fight corruption and other negative phenomena, and step up the Party building work, the Australian expert on Vietnamese studies highlighted, holding that Viet Nams politics will remain stable while there will be no radical changes in its domestic and foreign policies till the 14th Party Congress, ensuring investors confidence. According to Thayer, under the leadership of Lam, Viet Nam could reach its target of becoming a developed country with modern industry and upper-middle income by 2030 which, as Lam said, is a main goal. A positive factor is that Viet Nam has been among the fastest-growing economies in the region. Regarding priorities in Viet Nams foreign affairs in the coming time, Party General Secretary and State President To Lam affirmed that the country will continue strengthening ties with its neighbours, strategic and comprehensive partners and traditional friends, unceasingly consolidate political trust, peace dialogues and cooperation at the highest level for development, enhance contributions to maintaining peace and stability in the region and the world, elevate multilateral diplomacy, and promote its role as a proactive and responsible member of the international community. Thayer described the priorities as basic principles of the nations bamboo diplomacy, adding they are the results of the collective decision-making leadership and flexible approach, adding there will be a continuation of the previous policy, which will comfort countries with cooperation relations with Viet Nam about the continuous engagement in the future. VNS MOSCOW The Vietnamese Embassy in Russia hosted a get-together on August 5 to honour Soviet experts, especially those in military, who supported and accompanied the Vietnamese air defence and air force in their first days. August 5, 1964, saw a marked victory of the young Vietnamese air defence and air force in the resistance war against the US as they shot down eight planes and captured pilots for the first time, with Soviet military experts making great contributions. Attended by representatives of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Soviet Peace Fund, and Vietnamese associations in the country, the event demonstrated the long-lasting friendship between Viet Nam and the former Soviet Union, as well as Russia today. The participants observed a minute of silence in memory of late Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong who played a crucial role in promoting the Viet Nam-Russia relations. In his speech, Ambassador ang Minh Khoi affirmed the Vietnamese people are deeply grateful to Russian experts for their selfless, altruistic, and effective assistance to Viet Nam during its struggle for national independence and construction, saying thousands of Soviet experts stood shoulder to shoulder with the Vietnamese army and people to the final victory, as well as in the peacetime. He highlighted the growing friendship and trust between the two countries, saying despite challenges, they are still flourishing in all areas of cooperation on par with the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership. That relationship is entering a new phase of development following the state visit to Viet Nam by Russian President Vladimir Putin last June, he stressed. Nikolai Kolesnik, Chairman of the Russian War Veterans Association who once worked in Viet Nam, recalled the hardships and challenges during the wartime, and expressed his delight at the remarkable transformation of Viet Nam. He said the results are noteworthy given great efforts and determination of the Vietnamese people, as well as their love of peace, and their appreciation for all international assistance. Svetlana Golikova, who was responsible for collecting and sending information about Viet Nam's demand for support to the Soviet Union in 1970 1971, fully understood the difficulties faced by Viet Nam at that time more than anyone else. In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency, she could not hide her admiration for Viet Nam's revival, and her great love of the Southeast Asian nation. Ambassador Khoi emphasised that educating the young generation about the significance of the Viet Nam-Russia friendship and the value of international solidarity is a task shared by the two countries. VNS Amanda Zurawski, who developed sepsis and nearly died after being refused an abortion when her water broke at 18 weeks, second from left, and Samantha Casiano, who was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to term and give birth to a baby who died four hours after birth, second from right, stand with their attorney, stand with other plaintiffs and their attorneys outside the Travis County Courthouse, Wednesday, July 19, 2023, in Austin, Texas. Eric Gay/AP At 20 weeks, Samantha Casiano was told her fetus had anencephaly, a condition in which a developing babys brain and skull don't fully develop. It's nearly always fatal. She remembers the moment she found out. Her doctor walked in, a serious look on her face, and hugged her. It was tough because I knew that she wanted to tell me so much more. And she couldn't, Casiano said. It was a different environment than our other two children. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The diagnosis itself was crushing. But so was the fate they both knew Casiano would face because she lived here in Texas. Our state's Draconian abortion restrictions meant shed have to continue her pregnancy, deliver her daughter and then watch her die. And so it was. When little Halo was born, Casiano's husband cradled the fragile bundle in his arms as the life left her body. In a tumultuous presidential race that has included an attempted assassination and dramatic withdrawal of the incumbent, stories like Casianos are at risk of being lost. We must keep them front and center. Though Republican candidate Donald Trump has, at times, tried to appear agnostic about abortion rights, saying hed leave it to the states, hes also bragged about appointing three justices to the U.S. Supreme Court who helped reverse Roe v. Wade. On the other hand, Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, was the Biden administrations point person for reproductive rights and has been a consistent supporter of federal protections for abortion. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Enjoy your coconut and cat lady memes but never forget that in this election, lives hang in the balance. Halos birth still haunts Casiano. She remembers her: small and struggling to breathe. She remembers when her eyes started to bleed. Even now, when she hears a baby cry, she has to calm herself down and fight off a panic attack. I shouldn't have had to feel that way, Casiano told us, sitting in the back of a tour bus, part of a non-partisan movement to secure federal protections for abortion organized by Free & Just. And its because I didn't have the health care information that I needed. Nor the options. Casiano is part of a growing club that no woman wants to join. Its members have faced harrowing and sometimes life-threatening pregnancies and deliveries because of the states near-total ban on abortion. She was one of 20 women who sued the state for clarity on its supposed exception for medical emergencies. When she recounted her story on the stand, she vomited. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When the bus tour stopped in Houston in July, she was joined by Amanda Zurawski, the lead plaintiff on the unsuccessful lawsuit with her own harrowing experience. The pair shared their stories for a small crowd of media and supporters, standing in the shadow of a statue of George H.W. Bush, a president whose administration marked a rightward shift in American politics around abortion. After the Texas Supreme Court declined to clarify the law, suggesting instead that the state medical board offer guidance, Texans are still waiting for relief. The board offered little more than a summary of existing statutes in May when it finally weighed in. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: In passing the torch, Biden shows graceful humility The impacts of Texas laws are hard to quantify but early research suggests more infants have been dying in Texas, particularly from birth defects like anencephaly. Nationally, women have also increasingly resorted to attempting to end their pregnancies on their own, often through dangerous means including injuring themselves. Being at the center of the fight hasnt been easy. The nightmares, the panic attacks, the shopping carts abandoned in Target when Zurawski sees a baby about the age that her child wouldve been before she faced life-threatening complications that required hospitalization. Her water broke months early. They knew they would lose the baby they named Willow but Zurawski had to wait until she was near death in septic shock to get the care she needed. After being stabilized and delivering Willow, her body crashed again shortly after. She was rushed to the ICU and given Levophed, a drug shes since learned is sometimes referred to as Leave em dead, because its known as a desperate last resort. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Trump said in June that watching states adopt their own abortion restrictions was a beautiful thing. Tell that to mothers who have grazed death. Tell that to fathers who have rocked their babies to a sleep that never ends. So the suffering, the pain, the chaos, the grief is beautiful?" asks Zurawski. Casiano was so traumatized she decided to remove her fallopian tubes, too devastated to risk reliving the experience. This can't be what "protecting life" is about. It can't be the world that we give to our daughters. It's not the world that most Texans and certainly most Americans say they want. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Abortion is on the ballot. We're glad to see Harris bringing the issue to the forefront. It should stay there until November and until federal law restores women's rights to their own bodies. Voters, don't forget the stories of Zurawski and Casiano, or there will be many, many more just like them. HA NOI The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has warned Vietnamese citizens not to travel to Lebanon, Iran, and Israel at this time, given the escalation of tensions between the three countries, posing risks to peoples safety and property. While currently in Lebanon, people should move to a third country or return to Viet Nam as soon as possible. They were also advised to follow the security and safety guidelines and regulations set by the local authorities, and regularly check the warnings from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs via its Consular Department or the Vietnamese embassies in Egypt, Iran, Israel, and neighbouring countries for timely response. For assistance, Vietnamese citizens should contact the following emergency hotlines: The Vietnamese Embassy in Egypt and Lebanon: +201 02 613 9869; the Vietnamese Embassy in Iran: +98 21 224 11670; the Vietnamese Embassy in Israel: +972 50 818 6116; or the citizen protection hotline of the Consular Department: +84 981 84 84 84. Many other countries have also issued similar warnings to their citizens, asking them to leave the three countries as soon as possible or prepare to shelter in place for an extended period of time if they choose to remain. VNS HA NOI Minister of National Defence General Phan Van Giang held talks with visiting Japanese Defence Minister Kihara Minoru in Ha Noi on Tuesday, during which they touched upon cooperation orientations. Minister Kihara was making his first official visit to Viet Nam in his capacity as the minister in charge of defence. Giang highlighted the significance of Kihara's visit to deepening the Viet Nam-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World established last year, covering cooperation between the two defence ministries. He said the bilateral defence relations had been expanded continuously and had grown more intensively and substantively, serving as a key pillar of the relationship between the two countries, with notable collaboration outcomes in the settlement of war aftermath, training, military medicine, rescue operations, UN peacekeeping and regular consultations in regional forums, particularly within the framework of the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus (ADMM+). The two sides had maintained dialogue and exchange mechanisms, along with the deputy ministerial-level Defence Policy Dialogue and consultations among officers. Regarding future collaboration, Giang proposed the two sides work together to advance defence cooperation to a new and effective phase, consistent with the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World. They should focus on such areas as all-level delegation exchanges and meetings, the implementation of annual dialogue and consultation mechanisms, personnel training, technology transfer, war aftermath settlement and UN peacekeeping. The two countries should enhance consultation and coordination in multilateral mechanisms, thereby contributing to effectively implementing the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, he noted. For his part, Kihara extended his deepest condolences to the Vietnamese people over the passing of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, who made significant contributions to strengthening the Viet Nam-Japan relations. The visitor expressed his confidence that this visit would further tighten the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World and foster bilateral defence cooperation in the areas of mutual interest. During the talks, the two sides exchanged views on world and regional issues of shared concern. Regarding maritime issues, Giang emphasised Viet Nam's commitment to resolving all disputes through peaceful means on the basis of international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea) (DOC), while pushing ahead with negotiations for a substantive and effective Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC). At the end of the talks, the two ministers exchanged a letter of agreement and a memorandum of understanding regarding Japans transfer of two multi-purpose vehicles in service of rescue operations to Viet Nam. VNS HA NOI Developing ties with Russia is a consistent direction, strategic choice, and top priority of the Vietnamese Party, State and people in the country's foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralisation and diversification of external relations, Chairman of the National Assembly Tran Thanh Man said on August 6. Hosting a reception for Russian Ambassador to Viet Nam Gennady Bezdetko, the top legislator stressed that the Vietnamese people always bear in mind the wholehearted support from the Russian people during Viet Nam's struggle for national liberation in the past as well as the cause of construction and development nowadays. Over the past time, the Viet Nam Russia comprehensive strategic partnership has been unceasingly consolidated and developed robustly, with regular exchanges of delegations at all levels, he said, taking the occasion to thank the diplomat for his contributions to the successful state visit to Viet Nam by President Vladimir Putin in June. According to the top legislator, the two nations boast huge potential for cooperation. Last year, two-way trade stood at US$3.6 billion, while the figure in the first half of the year was $2.34 billion, up 45.4 per cent against the same period in 2023. He suggested the two sides bolster collaboration across economy and trade, making it on par with the bilateral relations. He also recommended increasing delegation exchanges at all levels, and further the cooperation between the two countries' parliaments and parliamentary friendship groups to share experience in lawmaking, supervision and decision-making in important issues. Ambassador Bezdetko, for his part, spoke highly of the close cooperation between the Vietnamese NA and the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of Russia, and affirmed that parliamentary cooperation is an important collaboration channel in the bilateral ties. VNS BEIJING Ling Dequan, a researcher at Chinas Centre for World Affairs Studies, has expressed his belief that under the leadership of the 13th Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV) Central Committee, with Party General Secretary and State President To Lam as leader, the Vietnamese people will reap greater achievements in their cause of oi Moi (The Renewal). In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency, Ling, a former chief representative of Chinas Xinhua News Agency in Ha Noi, stressed that the revolutionary cause in the Southeast Asian nation initiated by President Ho Chi Minh will surely be carried forward. The researcher stressed President Lams election as Party General Secretary with an absolute majority of votes was an important and logical event, adding General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Chinese President Xi Jinping extended his congratulations to the Vietnamese leader. After the passing of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, the CPV quickly consolidated its leadership, demonstrating Viet Nam's political stability and order, as well as the strong, steadfast Party leadership, he continued. As for priorities in Viet Nams foreign policy in the time ahead, Ling held that there will be no changes as reflected through Lams inauguration speech and that the policy set at the 13th National Party Congress would be inherited and promoted. The expert noted his special attention to the prospects of the relations between Viet Nam and China, the two neighbours connected by mountains and rivers, highlighting the announcement of the building of the Viet Nam-China community with a shared future that carries strategic significance in late 2023, which has opened up a new chapter for the relations between the two Parties and countries. Ling also believed that under the leadership of General Secretaries Xi Jinping and To Lam, the bilateral comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership would be enhanced in the time to come, and the building of the Viet Nam-China community with a shared future would be conducted in an intensive and practical manner. The two Parties, countries, and peoples will promote the traditional friendship and the "camaraderie plus brotherhood", consolidate mutual political trust, deepen strategic exchange, and promote result-oriented cooperation, for the sake of the two countries' people, global peace, and humankinds progress, he said. Regarding the corruption fight, the researcher said Party building and rectification has been regarded as a key content of the 13th National Party Congress, and that after taking office, Lam said the CPV will continue with the effort, consistently and firmly fighting the degradation of ideology, morality and lifestyle, and corruption and other negative phenomena within the Party. Ling also believed that the blazing furnace campaign launched by late General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong against corruption would continue to be fired, meeting the Party's policy and people's aspirations. He said the Vietnamese people have made unwavering efforts to complete targets and visions set by the 13th National Party Congress, and gained breakthrough achievements in this regard, stressing with the spirit of self-reliance, confidence, self-resilience, and national pride, the Vietnamese Party and people will navigate all difficulties and stay firmly against all challenges to advance on their chosen path and goals. The researcher also expressed his belief that Viet Nam will maximise opportunities and advantages, tap its potential, intensify its strengths, and cope with risks and challenges to successfully achieve strategic targets set at the 13th National Party Congress. VNS VIENTIANE A disaster data and communication lab was inaugurated in the Laotian capital city of Vientiane on August 6, marking a significant step in sci-tech cooperation between Viet Nam and Laos. The 50sq.m lab, a joint initiative of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) and the Lao Ministry of Technology and Communications, underwent renovation, equipment installation, and software setup from July 26 to August 4. It is equipped with four display screens, two computers, and various other devices used for real-time earthquake monitoring. VAST President Chau Van Minh and Lao Minister of Technology and Communications Boviengkham Vongdara attended the inauguration ceremony. The lab is a cornerstone for developing a regional terrestrial network system that will connect data from Viet Nam, Thailand, and other Southeast Asian countries. It is equipped with the SeisComP system, capable of automatically processing real-time earthquake data and providing crucial information such as occurrence time, location, magnitude, and depth. For earthquakes exceeding magnitude 4.5, experts will conduct in-depth analysis to refine the data. Currently, Laos operates three earthquake monitoring stations positioned in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Bolikhamsay provinces, with distances between the stations ranging from 150-300km. The lab is expected to bolster data management and disaster communication capabilities in Laos, aligning with the countrys digital government programme. Historical data revealed that Laos has experienced 22 earthquakes with magnitudes greater than 4.0 since 1900. Two of these quakes surpassed a magnitude of 6.0, while six fell a magnitude between 5.0 and 5.9, primarily affecting the northern region. VNS HA NOI The 2013 Law on Science and Technology will be amended and renamed the Law on Science, Technology and Innovation, helping to remove institutional obstacles and promote research results to the market, according to Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Bui The Duy. Duy said that the amended 2013 Law on Science and Technology will be submitted to the National Assembly for consideration and comments in May 2025. According to the official, one of the 'bottlenecks' that makes it difficult for research results to be translated into practice is related to the legal framework. In particular, the law on science and technology and many related laws do not accept the fact that sometimes scientists do research without producing results. This leads to the fact that when registering tasks, scientists do not dare to register new content, mainly creating content at a safe level so it is not new and cannot be brought to life. Besides, scientific and technological results also take a long time, 10-20 years, to be brought to life, so if we only evaluate the results of commercialisation in one to five years, it is not complete, said Duy. The second reason is due to the separation between research-development and production-business sectors. Duy said that the 2013 Law on Science and Technology mentioned the issue of ordering research, but the ordering must be from businesses or associated with universities and businesses must be through staff exchange activities. Currently, the staff exchange corridor is not favourable or a mandatory activity for lecturers and researchers. "The proposed revised law suggests introducing a corridor for scientists to work with businesses, which are still considered research and teaching activities," Duy said. Clearly defining the stages in research and development activities and innovation activities is also an issue of concern in amending the law. Currently, the fact that university research must be transferred to businesses is not practical. Therefore, the revised law needs to promote experimental production in businesses and analyse the market to produce final products. "The amended law will create a corridor for intermediary organisations to protect intellectual property and form a new science and technology market to facilitate the transfer of results," said the deputy minister. He also suggested that national programmes need to have a mechanism to assign results to the most favourable host organisation, considering science and technology investment as a long-term investment, automatically assigning authority for the lead agency to continue using it for commercialisation and further investment to create new products. In the proposals to amend the Law on Science and Technology, Deputy Minister Duy also emphasised new groups of policy issues. Accordingly, to develop science and technology activities in universities, it is necessary to have research content, activities and investment funds for the university. For example, there needs to be a programme to train graduate students with funding from science and technology. Duy said that many countries around the world consider graduate students as the main research force because they are young, creative and passionate about their work. Therefore, it is necessary to develop training programmes, considering them as researchers and research workers, not just students. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Huu uc, Hanoi National University, expects that the amended law will create a new legal corridor, creating conditions for development and encouraging innovation. "This is the first time we have formalised the concept of innovation, which will help build a new culture for Vietnamese people," uc said. Hanoi National University currently focuses on investing in creative student startups. According to Professor uc, it is necessary to prepare human resources for innovation, adding subjects on inventive and creative entrepreneurship into general subjects so that students have the skills and capacity to be pioneers. Shortcomings in financial investment mechanisms for science and technology Currently, the financial investment mechanism for science and technology still has many shortcomings. Deputy Minister Duy said that the Ministry of Science and Technology has researched and evaluated the entire legal system, including many related laws. The reality is that there is a lack of synchronisation between laws on science and technology and laws on finance. Once there are investment funds and resources, they need to be used effectively, openly and quickly. To achieve this, the science and technology industry needs to strongly amend regulations related to science and technology tasks, topics, projects, decentralisation and reform of administrative procedures," said Duy. The goal is to be open and transparent, thereby selecting the best topics and tasks quickly and conveniently. The first thing that needs to be resolved is how to synchronise the provisions of the Law on Science and Technology with existing financial policies, to make the most of all of these policies. In addition, it is necessary to adjust regulations on procurement and bidding when using investment funds for technology, including public investment funds from the State and funds from enterprises. This will encourage State support mechanisms. "It is necessary to research new issues, core technologies and even purchase research results and inventions from abroad, then transfer them to businesses so they can use and develop", said Duy. To "find a common voice between managers, financial investors and scientists", the Deputy Minister believes that it is necessary to share the view that State funding for science and technology results should be considered a long-term investment. Instead of requiring immediate payment, funds should be assigned to the host units and production units so they can invest and develop production and business. When these units create jobs and pay taxes, the State will recover capital through taxes and reinvest in scientific and technological activities. To achieve this, there needs to be close cooperation between science and technology agencies and financial agencies to understand each other and coordinate effectively. Therefore, the ministry proposes that the Law will regulate the determination of what is property and what is not property in scientific and technological results. For example, results that have been widely published and become human knowledge cannot be considered 'private property'. "We believe that sharing this perspective will help adjust the legal corridor of the Law on Science and Technology as well as other laws, so that they become more appropriate and operate more effectively, thereby creating an open environment for science, technology and innovation activities," emphasised Duy. VNS To take some pressure off parking in Ha Noi, it has been proposed that vacant spaces or land lots of projects with slow progress should be granted temporary permits to become parking lots. Transport export Vu Hoang Chung talks to Kinh Te o Thi (Economic and Urban Affairs) newspaper about this topic. How do you evaluate Ha Noi's policy of granting temporary parking permits to behind-schedule projects? I think this is a necessary policy. In the context that the city lacks static traffic infrastructure and the demand is so great today, turning empty spaces in the heart of the city into parking areas is an important solution that will be effective. It is such a waste to leave government-managed land plots without investment projects or with behind-schedule projects. In fact, if we dont grant the parking permits to those land lots, they would still be illegally turned into parking lots and benefit individuals. In some places, illegal car parks have existed for decades. Trillions of ong are estimated to have been collected with no tax. Meanwhile, the citys authorities have to borrow money to invest in transport infrastructure. That is a paradox that must be dealt with and the best solution is licensing to manage and collect taxes. This is already a proper policy but the implementation progress remains slow. In your opinion, what is the reason behind? I think the biggest reason is the lack of a clear legal corridor, leading to the fact that management agencies stay cautious and do not dare to grant licences. Other reasons should be mentioned, for example, enterprises lack experience and understanding in this service field. In your opinion, what should Ha Noi do to remove obstacles and soon launch temporary car parking lots on vacant land? First of all, the city needs to recognise and appreciate the role of this solution in urban life. It has great significance in the current context and in the long term, so it needs to be organised and implemented systematically and strictly. In my opinion, the city can set up a joint steering committee to overcome difficulties with the temporary parking lot model. The steering committee will review reality and collect data to develop a general regulation and process for granting temporary parking permits for vehicles in vacant plots of land and land of slow-moving projects. When completing the regulations, the steering committee can be dissolved or converted to work in another field. The committee will help the city Peoples Committee reduce work load while units and localities have clearer direction in completing the process through administrative and legal procedures. What conditions are required for temporary parking lots to be licensed? I see that Ha Noi is very successful with the non-cash fee collection model in parking services. That is a very important condition for managing and exploiting this model. It is necessary to consider the application of cashless toll collection as a mandatory condition for units that want to apply for a licence. In addition, localities should be given the authority to appraise, license and manage these temporary parking spots. At the same time, taxes and fees are paid into the local budget, thus creating additional revenue for localities to reinvest in infrastructure. The conditions for fire prevention, fighting, and traffic organisation must also be ensured. The most important thing to pay attention to is the timeline for temporary parking lot licensing. Many businesses with weak capacity or not willing to implement the project may consider applying for a parking permit as an excuse to procrastinate. It is necessary to clearly classify which plots of land can be licensed and for how long. For project land plots that have been left unused for too long, we must consider withdrawing them to transfer to another investor, especially planned static traffic projects. On the other hand, for vacant land plots managed by the locality, it is necessary to clearly define the maximum period of time that can be licensed, for example, two years or three years and encourage businesses to invest and apply for a licence. It should not be possible to issue a licence with a too short term. The city also needs to adjust parking prices, especially in the inner city area. With the price based on the current regulations, not many units are willing to apply to be granted a parking lot licence, but illegally build their own. VNS HA NOI The Viet Nam Road Administration (VNRA) under the Ministry of Transport has proposed revoking the authority of localities that fail to keep up with the disbursement progress for road maintenance funds. Local leaders will be held accountable for any delays in disbursement by the end of this year. This measure is part of a series of solutions aimed at accelerating the disbursement process for road maintenance this year. oan Chi Hieu, head of the VNRA's Planning Department, said that in 2024, the administration was allocated VN11.5 trillion (US$454.8 million) for road maintenance. As of the end of June 2024, only over VN3.2 trillion ($126.5 million) has been disbursed, reaching 28 per cent of the planned amount. Tay Ninh has the lowest disbursement rate at 3.7 per cent, followed by Vinh Phuc at 5.28 per cent, Nam inh at 8.1 per cent and Khanh Hoa at 8.5 per cent. The provinces of Quang Ninh, Hoa Binh, Kien Giang and Quang Ngai have relatively low disbursement rates of 10 per cent, 12 per cent, 13 per cent and 14.1 per cent, respectively. Notably, 70 out of 147 projects that the administration has allocated funds for have not yet undergone maintenance. The reason is the slow progress in selecting contractors and signing construction contracts by the localities. Specifically, Hoa Binh has eight out of 15 pending projects, Vinh Phuc has all three pending projects, Cao Bang has five out of 15 pending projects and Quang Ngai has all ten pending projects. The administration had required localities to develop disbursement plans for the last six months of the year. Most units had registered for 100 per cent disbursement, but many localities have been slow in preparing monthly disbursement plans. Localities that have not achieved 70 per cent of their disbursement plans include Hoa Binh, Lai Chau, Lao Cai, Vinh Phuc, Tuyen Quang, Ha Giang, Bac Kan, Quang Ninh, Bac Ninh, Thai Binh, Quang Nam, Gia Lai, Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Long An and Kien Giang. Pham Trong Tai, deputy director of the ien Bien Provinces Transport Department, said that the administration has currently authorised the transport departments to approve repair projects costing less than VN5 billion. However, if adjustments are needed during the construction process, they must be approved by the investment decision maker. He recommended a stronger delegation of authority, proposing that the entire maintenance process be entrusted to the investors to avoid delays caused by the need to consult the administration for urgent repairs. To expedite the disbursement progress in the final months of the year, the administration has instructed the road management zones, transport departments and project management boards to promptly select contractors, sign contracts and report any issues to accelerate the process. Additionally, they are required to review and re-register plans to ensure the disbursement rate of allocated funds. Bui Quang Thai, director of the VNRA, added that the annual maintenance funding only meets 40 per cent of the needs but remains unspent, with a large amount of carryover funding from the previous year. He emphasised the need to spend funds correctly and entirely within the fiscal year, noting that while decentralisation is being strengthened, it must be implemented appropriately. For the 2025 maintenance plan, the administration has introduced several measures to speed up the bidding and contractor selection processes to ensure projects can start early in the year and meet disbursement deadlines. Transport departments that continue to delay disbursement will have their authority to manage national roads revoked and leaders of the departments will take responsibility for the delay. VNS HA NOI Nguyen Huu Tien Hung, a student of the Bac Ninh High School for Gifted Students in the northern province of Bac Ninh, dreams of becoming a doctor. The gold medal Hung won recently at the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad in Saudi Arabia has brought him closer to the dream. Born in a place with strong academic traditions and to a well-educated family, Hung has always maintained his top spot in the class rankings. He has always had a particular love for natural sciences, especially chemistry. His older sister, a previous student of Bac Ninh High School for Gifted Students' chemistry class, motivated him the most. He said: "I am passionate about chemistry because it allows me to witness the fascinating phenomena of chemical reactions, which result in a variety of colours, precipitation and evaporation. With my knowledge of chemistry, I can now investigate the composition, structure, properties and changes of matter and explain substances and events with ease. It is really relatable to all people's lives. This is a subject with many applications in real life," he told Vietnam News Agency. He was chosen for the special chemistry class when he was grade nine. That same year, he won the first prize in the chemistry competition for excellent students in Bac Ninh Province. Hung said in order to learn chemistry properly, one must first master the fundamental concepts and then work through challenging situations by understanding the underlying causes of the issues. He creates a comfortable and exciting routine for himself each day that balances leisure time with studying, which makes it easier for him to take in information and research papers. Sharing his secret to winning a gold medal at the recent international competition, he said: "At first, when I read the exam questions, I felt a bit confused because the exam questions had many new points and were also topical, requiring candidates to have the ability to think comprehensively and perform operational skills accurately. The theoretical exam mentioned the applications of chemistry in industry, environmental pollution treatment, and advanced materials. At that time, I quickly regained my confidence, remembering the words of encouragement from my teachers to solve problems from basic knowledge, with the motto of doing easy things first, difficult things later, doing things firmly as much as possible. I was then in a comfortable mood and achieved good results." Recalling the moment when his name was called out as a gold medal winner at the international contest, he said: I felt happy and proud because I have contributed a tiny part to bring achievements to the Fatherland, the province, the school and my family. This is not only my own achievement but also the efforts of the entire team of teachers in the school, along with the support and encouragement of my family, he said. The first person I shared my joy with was teacher Vu Thi Len [his high school teacher] who smiled and cried at the same time when I announced the result. Nguyen Quang Hoa, Hungs father, who follows every step of his son, could not hide his emotion. It was a just reward for what he had done. Our family is always appreciative of Hung's teachers' concern and encouragement, he said. After working with Hung for three years, teacher Len claimed to have a thorough understanding of each student's strengths and limitations, enabling her to develop effective teaching strategies that maximise their potential. Hung exhibits all-around qualities along with a particular fondness and enthusiasm for chemistry. He always gets the greatest grades in chemistry in his class because he plans his days rationally, works out and studies chemistry on his own. Hung had previously received chemistry awards both locally and nationally. Hung said he will pursue his dream of becoming a good doctor and treating people by attending the Ha Noi Medical University. VNS "The company believes it will prevail on appeal," Coca-Cola said of a US tax court ruling dated July 31 that covered the years 2007, 2008 and 2009. The back taxes amount to $2.7 billion, which with interest makes the total owed "approximately $6.0 billion," the company said. "The company looks forward to the opportunity to begin the appellate process and, as part of that process, will pay the agreed-upon liability and interest to the IRS," Coca-Cola said Friday, adding that it has 90 days to file a notice with the US Court of Appeals. Coca-Cola says will appeal US tax court penalty worth $6 bn, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com The case dates to 2015 when Coca-Cola received a notice from the IRS contesting the company's accounting of income from foreign affiliates over the need for "arms-length" pricing of transactions with these entities, Coca-Cola said in a securities filing. Following a November 2020 decision in which the US Tax Court ruled against Coca-Cola, the company set aside reserves of $438 million. On June 28 following an updated analysis, Coca-Cola increased the tax reserves to $456 million. Coca-Cola's press release Friday did not give a timeframe for the $6 billion payments. In its latest quarterly filing, Coca-Cola said the IRS could also look to apply its methodology on pricing with foreign affiliates for the years 2010 through 2023, resulting in "the potential aggregate incremental tax and interest liability" of $16 billion. The Coca-Cola filing also said the company was evaluating how recent court rulings for the tax case. This includes the Supreme Court decision overturning the 40-year Chevron v Natural Resources Defense Council precedent to reign in federal regulatory agencies. Shares of Coca-Cola fell 0.2 percent in late-morning trading. Coca-Cola unites 1,000 Vietnamese families at Lunar New Year celebration In a grand celebration of its 30-year presence in Vietnam, Coca-Cola organised the Magic Tet Meal Table event on January 20, marking a significant milestone on its journey with Vietnamese families. The event, a blend of cultural festivity and corporate philanthropy, witnessed participation from over 1,000 families, along with partners, media agencies, and artists, all uniting to extend goodwill to the wider community. Swire Coca-Cola posts strong performance in Vietnam Swire Coca-Cola, a wholly owned subsidiary of Swire Pacific, posted a strong performance in Vietnam in 2023 following the acquisition of the Vietnamese franchise. Citi brought together its leading experts on financial institutions (FIs) from its global office, and senior representatives from SWIFT and Deloitte to provide insights into industry trends and innovations shaping the evolving financial landscape. Citi is the trusted advisor and supplier of services to 1,500 FIs across the world and serves the top banks and FIs in 149 countries. In 2023, Citi surveyed over 100 of its financial institution clients on the Future of Cross-Border Payments, and the results revealed 89 per cent expect to lose at least 5 per cent of their share to FinTechs in the next 510 years. Thus, FIs are looking for solutions that offer speed, cost efficiency, and transparency, and Citi is investing in solutions that can meet their needs. For example, Citi announced in June 2024 a first of its kind collaboration with a large bank in the Middle East leveraging its 24/7 USD Clearing service to make cross-border USD payments available to their corporate and retail clients at any time, end-to-end, across their branch network. Citis 24/7 USD Clearing solution helps FIs address speed concerns by enabling them to effectively make USD payments in real-time globally, with minimal effort on their part. Citi experts also emphasised partnering with Fintechs as a key solution for banks. APAC is a leading region for partnerships between Banks and Fintechs. 87 per cent of banks are planning to connect with an average of four fintechs in the next 12 to 18 months. Speakers also discussed the impact of technology on payments. Citi research pointed out that 24/7 operations, blockchain, and AI will have the most impact on the industry in the coming years. This is the second year in a row that we have brought together FI experts from around the world to share insights with our banking partners in Vietnam. Financial institutions are integral to any market and to the global economy, and Citi offers a unique combination of global presence, expertise, and local access, with integrated product capabilities across over 100 countries, across 140 currencies, said Ramachandran A.S., Citi's Vietnam country officer and banking head. At the event, Citi also announced the winners of the Citi Excellent Straight Through Processing Award 2023 to recognise local banks for automatic processing of international payments. The 11 award-winning Vietnamese banks were ACB, Agribank, BIDV, Eximbank, HDBank, MB, Sacombank, Techcombank, Vietcombank, VietinBank and VPBank. The Citi Excellent Straight Through Processing Award has been ongoing for two decades and recognises financial institutions and banks with state-of-the-art international payment services. Vietnams growth recovery exceeds expectations Vietnams GDP growth in the second quarter of 2024 rose to 6.9 per cent on-year, up from 5.7 per cent in the first quarter. The acceleration was driven by both the manufacturing and services sectors, highlighting economic resilience. Citi estimates robust macro prospects heading into 2025 Citis mid-year research on Vietnams economic outlook has affirmed its initial projections for the country. Trinh Van Quyet, former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the real estate developer FLC Group JSC. (Photo: VNA) Hanoi Trinh Van Quyet, former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the real estate developer FLC Group JSC, on August 5 was sentenced to 21 years in prison for the charges of "fraudulent appropriation of property" and "stock market manipulation". Of the total prison term, Quyet, 49, also former Chairman of the Bamboo Airways JSC, got 18 years for "fraudulent appropriation of property" and the remainder for "stock market manipulation" as decided by the Hanoi Peoples Court. Seven others in the case also faced the same charges, comprising Quyets younger sisters - Trinh Thi Minh Hue and Trinh Thi Thuy Nga, both accountants at the FLC Group JSC, who will spend 14 years and eight years behind bars, respectively. Former Permanent Chairwoman of the FLC Group Huong Tran Kieu Dung got eight and a half years in prison, while Deputy Director of the Faros Construction JSC Trinh Van Dai, 11 years. The head of the FLC Land Companys material purchasing division Nguyen Van Manh got six years, while former FLC Land Director Trinh Tuan received a sentence of four and a half years. Finally, a resident of Hanois Cau Giay district, Nguyen Thi Hong Dung, received a sentence of four years. The court sentenced the remaining 42 defendants in the case with jail terms ranging from a suspended sentence to 15 months in prison, and to seven and a half years for the counts of "fraudulent appropriation of property, stock market manipulation, "abuse of power or position while performing official duties," and "intentional dissemination of false information or concealment of information in securities activities". Another defendant, Doan Van Phuong (former General Director of the FLC Group, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Faros Construction JSC), is currently on the run, and wanted by the investigation agency. According to the indictment, for the act of "fraudulent appropriation of property", from 2014 to September 2016, Quyet directed individuals who were leaders or employees of the Faros company, as well as companies within the FLC Group, and relatives and acquaintances to act as shareholders to falsify capital contribution documents to raise Faros's chartered capital from 1.5 billion VND (59,200 USD) to 4.3 trillion VND (171 million USD). They completed documents and requested State management agencies in the securities sector to approve the registration as a public company, the registration of securities depository, and the listing of over 430 million shares formed from the falsified capital contribution of Faros on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange. After Faros's shares were listed on the stock exchange, from September 2016 to March 2022 (the time of indictment and detention), Quyet and his accomplices sold over 391 million shares formed from the falsified capital contribution held in the Faros Company, resulting in proceeds of 4.8 trillion VND, of which over 3.6 trillion VND was misappropriated from investors in the stock market. Regarding the act of "stock market manipulation", from May 26, 2017, to January 10, 2022, Quyet directed Hue and accomplices to use the identities of 45 individuals who are employees, relatives, and acquaintances to establish 20 companies and open 500 securities accounts. Hue used these accounts to manage and conduct market manipulation activities involving five stocks, namely AMD, HAI, GAB, FLC, and ART. Following Quyet's instructions, Hue sold shares on the market for illicit gains totaling over 723 billion VND when the stock prices increased. FLC Chairman Trinh Van Quyet arrested for stock market manipulation The Ministry of Public Security's Investigation Police Agency on March 29 decided to launch criminal proceedings against and arrest Trinh Van Quyet, Chairman of the FLC Group Joint Stock Company, pending investigations into suspicion of stock market manipulation. As the chief scientist at Google and a co-founder of Google Brain, Google Translate, and Gemini, Dean has made significant contributions to establishing Google's influence in the global technology sector. He will mark a significant moment for the country's burgeoning AI community, as he engages in in-depth discussions with leading Vietnamese experts and top organisations at the GenAI Summit 24: "Uncharted Frontiers". Jeff Dean Jeff Dean's distinguished career at Google began in 1999. He has contributed significantly to advancing deep learning techniques, laying the foundation for many modern AI applications, including natural language processing and image recognition. His leadership and technical skills have played a key role in enhancing Google's reputation in AI research. Under Dean's leadership, Google DeepMind has made notable progress in Generative AI, focusing on creating new content from existing data. His teams work on transformer models has significantly improved natural language processing, allowing AI to generate coherent and contextually relevant text. These advancements have practical applications across various fields, from automated customer support to real-time language translation. At GenAI Summit 24, participants will have the chance to explore the latest innovations in Generative AI and discuss how these technologies may reshape industries, stimulate creativity, and promote economic growth. Deans involvement is expected to provide useful insights into the potential and future directions of these developments. Deans contributions extend beyond technological advancements to embrace ethical considerations in AI development. As highlighted in recent discussions, including insights from a Fortune article, Dean emphasises the importance of continued algorithmic improvements. These advancements aim to enhance AI efficiency and reduce environmental impacts, specifically regarding the energy consumption of AI systems. "AI has the potential to transform industries and improve lives, but it is essential that we develop it responsibly and ethically," Dean said. He believes that while AI contributes to data centre emissions, it is not the primary cause. He advocates for innovations that enhance the energy efficiency of AI models, aligning technology progress with sustainability goals. This perspective is likely to foster meaningful discussions at the summit regarding responsible advancements in technology. In the context of Vietnam, there is a significant opportunity to leverage AI to foster economic growth and address social challenges. The GenAI Summit 2024, being the first conference focused on Generative AI in Vietnam, will help the Southeast Asian nation delve deeper into a new era of AI. Under the auspices of the Ministry of Planning and Investment, GenAI Summit 2024 is being co-organised by the New Turing Institute (NTI), the Rethink Healthcare Foundation (RHF), and Fulbright University, and coordinated by the National Innovation Centre (NIC). It will take place on August 18 in Ho Chi Minh City. The conference aims to present the latest advancements in Generative AI technology. Thousands of scholarships delivered as part of Vietnam Digital Talent programme Thousands of scholarships have been delivered to students in the Vietnam Digital Talent programme. Vietnam looking for innovation cooperation opportunities in the United States Vietnamese Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung held meetings with members of the Vietnam Innovation Network and technology giants in Silicon Valley (San Francisco) during a business trip to the United States during June 22-26. Google greenhouse gas emissions grow as it powers AI Google, despite its goal of achieving net-zero emissions, is pumping out more greenhouse gas than before as it powers data centers needed to support artificial intelligence, the company said. Indulge in the splendour of literature and puppetry this mid-autumn at the Hanoi Hotel Mooncake Collection 2024 Muse, featuring the ethereal beauty of Chang'E, the Moon Goddess, and her lunar rabbits, portrayed in a classical performance combining Baroque and Renaissance styles. The hotel's pastry artisans, under the expert guidance of Chinese executive mooncake chef Li Jian Chuan, have diligently worked to preserve the distinctive cultural essence of each mooncake, ensuring the best taste is redefined each year. The refined artistry of Hong Kongs culinary traditions is exemplified in the white lotus flavour, while the red bean paste symbolises luck and unity in East Asian culture. Crafted from premium red beans, it brings a sweet aroma that accentuates the cultural significance of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Promoting health and longevity, the black sesame and walnut paste offers the nutritional benefits of omega-3, fibre, vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals like calcium, zinc, iron, and magnesium. Debuting this year is the mixed nuts flavour, promising a unique twist to the collection. Perfectly combining cashews, almonds, melon seeds, olive seeds, and walnuts, this flavour delivers a nostalgic yet novel taste, leaving a lasting impression for every customer. The quintessence of Hong Kong cuisine is defined in the golden crust made from a secret recipe, perfectly baked to result in a thin and shiny golden crust. Each mooncake, when sliced, reveals the specially selected salted egg yolks, resembling the shape of the full moon. The balanced savoury and sweet flavours create an irresistible and enchanting taste experience. Hanoi Hotel's mooncakes are available in three sizes, catered to customers need. Each of our mooncakes is handcrafted with precision in the hotel's pastry kitchen using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The products undergo stringent quality control by the TSL testing centre and are certified for food safety by Hanoi's Department of Industry and Trade. Chef Li Jian Chuan suggested, Enjoying mooncakes with oolong or jasmine tea is a perfect choice. The subtle astringency of oolong tea harmonises with the mooncake's sweetness and the salted egg yolk's savouriness, creating a memorable aftertaste. Jasmine tea, with its delicate aroma and mild bitterness, enhances both digestion and fat breakdown, offering good health benefits when savoured with mooncakes. This years collection features seven elegant box designs, offering a variety of refined options for gifting. Each box is exquisitely crafted using 3D printing technology and adorned with opulent gold patterns on lacquered wood. Richard Yit, Hanoi Hotels general manager, remarked, Customers trust, along with brand integrity, has always been our top priority. Hanoi Hotel aims to provide customers with the most memorable experiences during the Mid-Autumn Festival." Hanoi Hotel is one of the first hotels in Vietnam to launch its very own mooncake collection, and its reputation has since been built through its meticulously crafted authentic mooncakes wuth Hong Kong flavours. Every Hanoi Hotel mooncake embodies the dedication of the bakers, and the heartfelt intentions for those who are gifting, making the Mid-Autumn Festival more meaningful than ever. Hanoi Hotel's mooncake prices range from VND 898,000 ($37) per box, and are currently available at Studio Mooncake by Hanoi Hotel located in the hotel lobby. Mid-Autumn Festival gifts inspired by Saigonese culture Savoure Bakery is celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival later this year with a special gift box collection called "Saigon Signature Mooncake", inspired by the colours of the five elements and combined with symbols that have auspicious meanings of Ho Chi Minh City and its people. Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel debuts 2024 mooncake collection This Mid-Autumn Festival, Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel presents its Mooncake Collection 2024, named the Autumn Orchestra and taking inspiration from the soothing melodies from the Opera House. Video of the episode showed oxygen masks hanging in front of a gaping airplane space from a panel that blew out shortly after takeoff, leaving passengers exposed to open air at an altitude of about 16,000 feet. Hearing to probe Alaska Airlines emergency on Boeing jet, illustration photo The hearing in Washington aims "to determine the facts, circumstances, and probable cause of the transportation accident... and to make recommendations to improve transportation safety," said the National Transportation Safety Board, which is overseeing the probe. The plane soon went back to Portland where it safely landed, although there were eight minor injuries. The NTSB immediately launched a probe and after a month said four bolts securing the panel were missing, according to preliminary findings released February 6. The agency has collected written documents and photos showing that Boeing employees removed four bolts from these locations during an inspection at the Renton plant in Washington state prior to delivery of the aircraft last October. Over the course of two day-long sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday in Washington, the NTSB will hear from about 15 witnesses. Speakers include Elizabeth Lund, senior vice president for quality at Boeing, among other officials at the company, as well as officials from key supplier Spirit AeroSystems, regulator Federal Aviation Administration and the machinists union. The witness list does not include Alaska Airlines. Lund came under fire from the NTSB after providing a detailed summary of the incident in June to journalists touring the company's Renton plant. Boeing staff identified five "non-conforming" rivets in the fuselage after the arrived in Renton, but the issue "did not create a safety hazard," Lund told reporters. But when the fuselage panel, known as the door plug, was removed to replace the rivets, Boeing staff failed to file the documentation to make the change on the door plug, Lund said. "We believe that plug was opened without the correct paperwork," Lund told reporters. "There was a non-compliance to our processes at that point." She also said Boeing was focused on closing a "gap" over the lack of documentation and that determining who did the work "is the responsibility of the NTSB and that investigation is still going on." - Boeing sanctioned - After Lund's comments were published in June, the NTSB announced it was sanctioning the company for sharing details about an ongoing probe that were not supposed to be discussed publicly. Lund "released non-public investigative information and made unsubstantiated speculations about possible causes of the Jan. 5 door-plug blowout, which is directly at issue in the ongoing investigation," the NTSB said in a June 27 letter to Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun. Some of the information "was either inaccurate or unknown to the NTSB," the letter added. "This disregard of the federal regulations and rules governing NTSB investigations cannot be tolerated." As a result, the NTSB said it is blocking Boeing from reviewing information gathered in its investigation and will not permit the company to ask questions of other witnesses at the hearing. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy in March had also sharply criticized Boeing's handling of the probe, telling a congressional hearing the company was dragging its feet in providing key documentation and witnesses involved in working on the plane. Tuesday's hearing comes as Boeing faces heavy scrutiny from regulators following the January incident and in the wake of congressional testimony from whistleblowers who say the company punishes workers who raise safety issues while moving to cover up problems. Key moments in Boeing's difficult history with the 737 MAX, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com Representatives of Boeing, supplier Spirit AeroSystems and the Federal Aviation Administration are among the witnesses commenting on the near-catastrophic incident, which follows other problems at Boeing since the MAX was introduced more than a decade ago. 2011 August 30: Boeing presents the 737 MAX, its latest version of the top-selling single-aisle jet. 2017 March 8: US regulators with the Federal Aviation Administration certify the 737 MAX 8, which in takes its first commercial flight weeks later. 2018: October 29: A 737 MAX 8 operated by Lion Air crashes shortly after liftoff, killing all 189 people on board. 2019 March 10: A 737 MAX 8 operated by Ethiopian Airlines crashes about six minutes after liftoff, killing all 157 people on board. March 11: Chinese regulators are the first to ground the 737 MAX, a move soon followed by other aviation authorities, including the FAA. March 14: Boeing suspends deliveries of the 737 MAX. April 4: Boeing acknowledges that flaws with a software program called the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) played a role in the crashes. December 16: Boeing announces the suspension of 737 MAX production in January. December 23: Boeing announces the ouster of CEO Dennis Muilenburg, who was criticized for his handling of the crisis. 2020 January 13: David Calhoun, a longtime Boeing board member, takes over as CEO of Boeing. February 18: Boeing vows to tighten controls after finding potentially dangerous debris in fuel tanks of undelivered 737 MAX aircraft. May 27: Boeing resumes production at low volumes of the 737 MAX. September: Boeing says that recently discovered manufacturing problems with the 787 Dreamliner will impact deliveries. Deliveries on the jets end up being slowed or entirely halted for about two years. November 18: The FAA clears the 737 MAX to resume service. 2021 January 7: Department of Justice (DOJ) announces a deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) with Boeing in which the planemaker agrees to pay $2.5 billion in fines and restitution, and to upgrade its compliance and quality control efforts. The agreement is designed to expire in three years if Boeing meets the conditions. January 27: European officials authorize the 737 MAX to resume service. Chinese officials do not clear the jets back into service until January 2023. June 18: The first ever flight of the 737 MAX 10, the biggest model of the jet. The aircraft, along with the 737 MAX 7 -- the smallest version in the family -- have yet to be certified. 2022 April 27: Boeing pushes back the timeframe for its giant 777X, which was originally meant to go into service in 2020. The current plan is for the jet to enter service in 2025. 2023 April 14: Boeing operations are hit after supplier Spirit AeroSystems notifies that it identified "a non-standard manufacturing process" on two fittings on the fuselage of four 737 models. December 22: China accepts its first new Boeing jet since 2019, a 787 Dreamliner. Deliveries of the 737 MAX resume in January. December 28: Boeing urges airlines to undertake inspections after an international operator discovered a bolt with a missing nut while performing routine maintenance. 2024: January 5: A 737 MAX 9 operated by Alaska Airlines makes an emergency landing after a fuselage panel blows out mid-flight, plunging Boeing back into crisis mode. February 26: An audit released by an FAA advisory panel offers 53 recommendations to improve Boeing's safety culture, characterizing staff as confused and distrustful of changes. February 28: An FAA audit gives Boeing 90 days to devise a plan to significantly upgrade its quality control processes. March 25: Boeing announces that Calhoun will step down at the end of 2024 as the company embarks on a CEO search. The aviation giant also replaces its head of commercial planes, as well as its chairman of the board. April 17: A Senate panel hears from a Boeing whistleblower and other critics who accuse the company of punishing or sidelining criticism and downplaying problems. May 14: The DOJ concludes that Boeing flouted its obligations under the 2021 DPA, opening up the company to possible prosecution. May 30: Boeing submits a comprehensive plan to the FAA for upgrading safety. July 7: Boeing and the DOJ announce an agreement that includes a guilty plea by the company to a fraud charge connected to the MAX certification. July 31: Boeing announces that former Rockwell Collins head Robert "Kelly" Ortberg will become the CEO to begin August 8. Boeing announces firm order for 35 737 MAX aircraft Embattled aviation giant Boeing on Monday announced that it had finalized a firm order with leasing company Aviation Capital Group for thirty-five 737 MAXs, its flagship aircraft, worth almost $4.5 billion at list price. Luu Trung Thai, chairman of the board, highlighted the bank's steadfast strategy for 2024, focusing on three key areas. "First, we aim to develop our customer base and transaction scale. Second, we are committed to expanding our retail segment by creating new products and increasing retail volume. Third, we will prioritise investing in digital platforms, coupled with smart risk management and fostering a distinctive, sustainable, and innovative corporate culture," Thai stated. Nguyen Thi Thanh Nga, CFO, added that the bank's profits saw significant growth in Q2 compared to Q1. For Q3, MB is projecting a conservative financial scenario with credit growth of around 12-13 per cent, and a slight increase in funding costs of about 0.1-0.15 per cent. Additionally, provisioning costs may rise. "We expect Q3 profits to fluctuate by 6 per cent compared to Q2. The annual profit scenario remains as presented at the AGM, with efforts to enhance business revenue," Nga said. During the meeting, Thai also addressed investors' concerns regarding loans to Trung Nam, Novaland, Vingroup, and Sun Group. Regarding Trung Nam Group, Thai revealed that MB has reduced its outstanding debt by VND2 trillion ($80 million) since the beginning of the year. The bank's loans focus on solar power projects, which are operating on schedule and benefiting from favourable feed-in tariff rates, ensuring stable cash flow for debt repayment. "We do not classify Trung Nam's loans as non-performing. These independent projects are running well and can meet their debt obligations," he said. For Novaland, MB has reduced its outstanding debt by VND1.5 trillion ($60 million) since last year. The bank's loans are directed towards three major projects, all of which are progressing positively. The NovaWorld Phan Thiet project shows promising signs with no legal issues and is currently undergoing land valuation under the new Land Law. Meanwhile, Novalands Vung Tau project has all the necessary documentation and is in the sales phase. The Aqua City project is being monitored closely to complete legal procedures, with government support to resolve real estate sector challenges, he said. "We do not foresee any issues with Novaland's debt repayment this year. We expect the NovaWorld Phan Thiet and Vung Tau projects to finalise their business plans next year, and Aqua City to complete necessary legal processes this year," Thai added. Regarding Sun Group, Thai stated that there should be no difficulties balancing collateral and debt repayment. The group focuses on tourism-related projects, such as Fansipan and Ba Den, which have stable customer flows and cash streams. "The real estate projects involving Sun Group that MB finances are of a manageable scale and quality," he added. For Vingroup, MB maintains strict control, focusing on projects with full legal compliance and final product deployment. Most projects with Vingroup have been repaid swiftly. The collateral assets of these four businesses are typically three times the loan balance, enabling MB to effectively manage each project's progress, Thai highlighted. Thai concluded that MB remains committed to its goals for the second half of 2024, aiming to maintain its net interest margin, tightly control operational costs, and ensure the quality of credit and non-performing loans (NPL) are managed at least as well as in the first half of the year. The group's NPL ratio target is below 1.7 per cent, with 100 per cent provisioning for bad debts. Based on current trends, MB expects credit demand to rebound, improving loan balance scales and fee income, while maintaining robust bad debt recovery rates. The bank aims to achieve a minimum profit of VND28.8 trillion ($1.15 billion) in 2024, and potentially exceed this figure. In June alone, the export value reached nearly $6 million, a sixfold increase compared to the same period in 2023. South Korea among top 10 importers of Vietnamese tuna, photo VNA Nguyen Ha, a tuna market expert at VASEP, highlighted the robust growth of exports of processed and canned tuna to South Korea. Due to global economic difficulties and a recession, South Korean consumers have tightened their spending, leading to increased demand for affordable seafood products such as canned tuna. Vietnamese tuna, being inexpensive and reasonably priced, has seen a surge in purchases from South Korea since 2023, she explained, quoted by local media agency Tuoitre. Currently, processed and canned tuna products constitute 99 per cent of Vietnams total tuna export value to South Korea, with frozen steamed skipjack tuna being the primary product. Echoing this sentiment, a representative from a seafood company in Nha Trang emphasised the shift in seafood consumption trends in South Korea towards more budget-friendly options. This presents an opportunity for Vietnam to boost exports of competitively priced products. With rising freight rates to the United States and Europe, Vietnamese companies are redirecting their export focus to nearby markets with stable demand, the representative remarked. According to VASEP, cumulative tuna exports to South Korea in the first half of 2024 exceeded $14 million, marking a 144 per cent increase on-year. South Korea has now become one of the top 10 markets for Vietnamese tuna, with around 15 Vietnamese companies currently exporting to this market. With a population of over 51 million, South Korea represents a significant and growing market for Vietnamese tuna exporters. However, VASEP predicts that maintaining the current growth rate for the rest of 2024 will be challenging due to a decrease in the domestic supply of raw skipjack tuna. This is partly attributed to the minimum size regulations outlined in Decree 37, which imposes certain restrictions on the industry. South Korea's GC Holdings to enter Vietnamese healthcare market South Korea's GC Holdings will establish a gene and cancer diagnostic institution in Vietnam next month in collaboration with Phenikaa Group, marking its official entry into Vietnam's healthcare market. The conference, themed "The Role and Contribution of the UNESCO Movement to Cultural Industries", was held on August 5 in Halong (Quang Ninh). The conference connected the economic and cultural sectors, providing an opportunity for leaders, experts, businesses, and individuals from Vietnam and around the world to propose solutions on how to build a corporate culture and develop the cultural industry in Vietnam. The event was attended by 40 representatives from member countries of the World Federation of UNESCO Clubs, Centres and Associations, along with hundreds of delegates from cultural, educational, and scientific organisations in Vietnam. At the event, Huy Nguyen, CEO of Phygital Labs, a company specialising in transitioning physical items into the digital world, presented a paper on "Applying Technology to Exploit Heritage Copyright and Promote Cultural Industries". He introduced the Nomion digital identity solution, a new model for heritage economic development. This solution revolves around using NFC chip, blockchain, AR, and VR technologies to connect physical heritage with digital technology, ensuring the correct management, protection, and exploitation of heritage copyrights. "The government and cultural organisations, along with non-governmental UNESCO movements, will have open and close cooperation with cultural heritage management units and technology companies, thereby shaping the future of cultural industries in Vietnam, Nguyen said. In the same vein, Dr Le Cao Thang from the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour proposed solutions to develop a digital culture. "First, we must raise awareness among officials at all levels and the public about building and developing digital culture, recognising that developing digital culture is an inevitable path in the process of building a new culture, with the people as the main and decisive force," he said. According to Thang, the next step is to improve the institutional framework to create a legal corridor for transforming culture from traditional to digital environments. He also emphasised the need to enhance technology application, digitise traditional cultural heritages, and build cultural databases. "Building a workforce to serve digital culture is key to successfully transforming from traditional to digital culture. Additionally, enhancing the application of Industry 4.0 technologies, intensifying international cooperation, and strengthening management are the driving forces for the digital transformation process," Thang added. At the event, Phygital Labs was honoured with the title "Pioneer Startup in the Journey of Promoting Cultural Heritage Values 2024" by the World Federation of UNESCO Clubs, Centres, and Associations. The company has laid the groundwork for using digital physical technology to enhance and preserve Vietnamese cultural values through projects such as the digital identification of Nghe Van Mieu statues to create the first digital physical book, digitising ten artefacts Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, and launching a metaverse cultural exhibition space integrated with Apple Vision Pro. The conference concluded with a declaration on "Creative Economy - Connecting Culture for Peace and Sustainable Development". This declaration commits to promoting fair and sustainable economic models, improving the quality of life for all community members, supporting environmentally and socially friendly economic policies, and preserving cultural heritage. Preserving and promoting Vietnam's cultural heritage The 4th Vietnam Cultural Heritage Festival provides opportunities for local people and tourists to enjoy and experience Vietnam's unique cultural and artistic activities, contributing to promoting and raising awareness of the country's heritage values. Vietnamese heritage recognised by UNESCO Preserving heritage is now the top priority of UNESCO and countries having globally-recognised heritage, including Vietnam. Hanoi promotes experiential tourism linked to heritage, trade villages Hanoi, home to a large number of cultural and historical sites and craft villages, is taking measures to develop experiential tourism to attract more visitors to the over-1,000-year-old capital. The MoU was signed on August 5, witnessed by Vietnamese Minister of Finance Ho Duc Phoc, Vietnamese Ambassador to Singapore Mai Phuoc Dung, and Singaporean Second Minister of Finance Chee Hong Tat. The Singapore Exchange (SGX) and Vietnam Exchange ( VNX) wish to develop communication channels to serve the interests of the Singaporean and Vietnamese stock markets. The two sides will share information on the operations and legal frameworks of products traded on the stock and derivative markets. This MoU is also the foundation for the SGX and VNX to conduct discussions and negotiations on sharing information related to domestic market structures, such as legal frameworks, market information, and information provision services. In addition, the SGX and VNX will also share experience in market surveillance of the stock and derivatives markets, and a legal framework for cross-listing activities. This is coupled with exchanges on corporate governance activities, including sharing experiences in establishing best corporate governance rules and practices for listed companies and investors. The two sides will also support and improve the level of monitoring compliance with listing regulations of SGX and VNX, while promoting the image of listed companies on each other's stock markets. Efforts will be made to expand cooperation opportunities, with priority given to the development and listing of potential products on the stock and derivative markets. Promising investment sectors for second half Stocks, industrial real estate, gold, and cryptocurrency are identified as noteworthy investment opportunities in the second half in the context of Vietnam's economic landscape, which has shown positive signals in the first half of 2024. Opportunities for individual stocks to surge in second half Stocks in sectors such as telecommunications technology, finance, chemicals, and steel will be particularly favoured by individual investors in the last six months of this year. Google lost its case after a federal judge ruled that the company had violated the U.S. antitrust law due to its illegal search engine dominance. The decision was issued by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, which came after almost a year of trial between the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and Google. Read Also : Google's Next Update Will Feature Browsing Chrome History Through Questions US Court Finds Google Guilty of Monopolizing Internet Search The trial reviewed evidence and testimony from tech giants Google, Apple, and Microsoft last year for around 10 weeks. The decision came three months after both sides presented their closing arguments last May. "After having carefully considered and weighed the witness testimony and evidence, the court reaches the following conclusion: Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly," Mehta wrote in his 277-page ruling. The judge cited that the company specifically violated Section 2 of the Sherman Act. Google has been monopolizing the general search industry by claiming 89.2% of the market, which eventually ballooned to 94.9% on mobile devices. Google to Appeal Federal Judge's Ruling Kent Walker, Google's president of global affairs, stated that the tech giant plans to appeal Mehta's findings. He emphasized that the ruling acknowledged that the company offers the best search engine. He also highlighted that while the ruling knows that Google has the best search engine performance, the decision only stated that it "shouldn't be allowed to make it easily available." The company also argued that customers have the power to switch their search engines once they become unsatisfied with the results they are getting. Google cited how people transitioned out of Yahoo after years of familiarity with its search engine. The ruling could potentially affect the availability of Google's search engine in the future and might also require the company to pay a monetary fine. NW China's Xinjiang mobilizes emergency responding teams for flood control amid water level alert Xinhua) 11:00, August 06, 2024 A rescuer uses a drone to monitor river condition in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 3, 2024. Affected by high temperatures and heavy rainfall, the water volume of the Tarim River in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region exceeds the alert level. Local authorities mobilized emergency responding teams that are on duty around the clock at the flood control front lines, and availed of water conservancy facilities to ensure public safety while maximizing the utilization of flooding water. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 3, 2024 shows the Tarim River in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) Emergency workers reinforce a dike in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) A worker collects hydrological data in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) A rescuer reinforces a dike in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) A worker collects hydrological data in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) Emergency workers organize flood control supplies in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) Emergency workers make sand bags to reinforce a dike in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 3, 2024 shows the Tarim River widened by flood water in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) Emergency workers make sand bags to reinforce a dike in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 3, 2024 shows the Tarim River flood water diverted to irrigate a forest of populus euphratica in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 1, 2024 shows the Tarim River flood water diverted to irrigate a forest of populus euphratica in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Photo by Qiang Limin/Xinhua) This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 2, 2024 shows a worker collecting hydrological data with a remote control boat in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 4, 2024 shows an open sluice gate diverting flood water to irrigate a forest of populus euphratica in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) This photo taken on Aug. 3, 2024 shows the Tarim River flood water diverted to irrigate a forest of populus euphratica in Xayar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) Staff members check real time flood control data at Xinjiang Tarim River Administration in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 4, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Instagram and its parent company, Meta, are now facing a potential $5 million class-action lawsuit as teenagers accused the platform of exposing them to harmful content and impacting their mental health. First reported by The Washington Post, a 13-year-old girl has filed a complaint on the California District Court demanding accountability from Instagram for causing her to suffer anxiety, depression, and lower grades due to the results of her Instagram page. Instagram 'Likes' Counter Harm Teenagers' Mental Health, Lawsuit Claims The lawsuit claimed that Meta knowingly exposed teenagers to harmful content by implementing display counts on Instagram posts to make it enticing for teenagers. If the case passes, the complainant intends to share the $5 million to all teenagers affected by these Instagram features. In response, Meta spokesperson Liza Crenshaw reiterated the platform's continuous efforts to provide teens and children with a safe experience on social media. This includes the rollout of parental control features, age verification systems, and other safety restrictions to prevent adults from preying on vulnerable children. Also Read : Instagram, Facebook Will Start Restricting Harmful Content with Minors Meta Faces Legal Troubles on Keeping Platforms Safe for Children The case from the 13-year-old girl was not the first time a lawsuit was filed on Meta and its platforms on behalf of its teenage users as safety concerns continue to pile up against the company. Since 2021 when Facebook whistleblower France Haugen accused the platform of knowing that Instagram worsen people's body-image issues, Meta has been receiving heightened scrutiny from lawmakers, parents, and advocacy groups. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg was even urged to make an apology to affected families during the Senate hearing on online child safety as US lawmakers grilled tech leaders for the "online child sexual exploitation crisis." The Instagram owner is currently facing hundreds of lawsuits, among which were from 41 state governments, demanding proper accountability from the platform. WASHINGTON Ordinary Americans are getting whacked by too many laws and regulations, Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch says in a new book that underscores his skepticism of federal agencies and the power they wield. Too little law and were not safe, and our liberties arent protected," Gorsuch told The Associated Press in an interview in his Supreme Court office. "But too much law and you actually impair those same things. Over Ruled: The Human Toll of Too Much Law was published Tuesday by Harper, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. Gorsuch received a $500,000 advance for the book, according to his annual financial disclosure reports. In the interview, Gorsuch refused to be drawn into discussions about term limits or an enforceable code of ethics for the justices, both recently proposed by President Joe Biden at a time of diminished public trust in the court. Justice Elena Kagan, speaking a couple of days before Biden, separately said the courts ethics code, adopted by the justices last November, should have a means of enforcement. But Gorsuch did talk about the importance of judicial independence. "Im not saying that there aren't ways to improve what we have. Im simply saying that weve been given something very special. Its the envy of the world, the United States judiciary, he said. The 56-year-old justice was the first of three Supreme Court nominees of then-President Donald Trump, and they have combined to entrench a conservative majority that has overturned Roe v. Wade, ended affirmative action in college admissions, expanded gun rights and clipped environmental regulations aimed at climate change, as well as air and water pollution more generally. A month ago, the Supreme Court completed a term in which Gorsuch and the courts five other conservative justices delivered sharp rebukes to the administrative state in three major cases, including the decision that overturned the 40-year-old Chevron decision that had made it more likely that courts would sustain regulations. The courts three liberal justices dissented each time. Gorsuch also was in the majority in ruling that former presidents have broad immunity from criminal prosecution in a decision that indefinitely delayed the election interference case against Trump. What's more, the justices made it harder to use a federal obstruction charge against people who were part of the mob that violently attacked the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in an effort to overturn Trump's defeat by Biden in the 2020 election. Gorsuch defended the immunity ruling as necessary to prevent presidents from being hampered while in office by threats of prosecution once they leave. The court had to wrestle with an unprecedented situation, he said. Here we have, for the first time in our history, one presidential administration bringing criminal charges against a prior president. Its a grave question, right? Grave implications, Gorsuch said. But in the book, co-authored by a former law clerk, Janie Nitze, Gorsuch largely sets those big issues aside and turns his focus to a fisherman, a magician, Amish farmers, immigrants, a hair braider and others who risked jail time, large fines, deportation and other hardships over unyielding rules. In 18 years as a judge, including the past seven on the Supreme Court, Gorsuch said, There were just so many cases that came to me in which I saw ordinary Americans, just everyday, regular people trying to go about their lives, not trying to hurt anybody or do anything wrong and just getting whacked, unexpectedly, by some legal rule they didnt know about. The problem, he said, is that there has been an explosion of laws and regulations, at both the federal and state levels. The sheer volume of Congress' output for the past decade is overwhelming, he said, averaging 344 pieces of legislation totaling 2 million to 3 million words a year. One vignette involves John Yates, a Florida fisherman who was convicted of getting rid of some undersized grouper under a federal law originally aimed at the accounting industry and the destruction of evidence in the Enron scandal. Yates case went all the way to the Supreme Court, where he won by a single vote. I wanted to tell the story of people whose lives were affected, Gorsuch said. The book expands on a theme that has run through Gorsuch's opinions over the years, from his criticism of the Chevron decision back when he served on a federal appeals court in Denver to his statement in May 2023 in which he called emergency measures taken during the COVID-19 crisis that killed more than 1 million Americans perhaps the greatest intrusions on civil liberties in the peacetime history of this country. While Gorsuch has voted with the other conservative justices in most of the courts momentous cases, he also has joined with the liberals in notable cases, including those in which he wrote the opinion in 2020 that expanded protections against workplace discrimination to LGBTQ people. Gorsuch also has sided with the liberal justices in all the courts cases involving Native Americans since he joined the court. Photos: Scene outside the Supreme Court as Trump immunity case decision announced Supreme Court Trump Immunity Supreme Court Trump Immunity APTOPIX Supreme Court Trump Immunity Microsoft announced that security efforts are now tied to employee performance reviews as the company pushed it as a "core priority." The tech giant revealed its intentions to put security at the top of its priority starting in 2024 after years of scrutiny of its security issues and criticisms. Read Also : Microsoft Shares DDOS Cyberattack Caused the Recent Outage Microsoft Implements Top Security Policies on Employees In an internal memo obtained by The Verge, Microsoft emphasized that security will be its main objective above all else. Kathleen Hogan, Microsoft's chief people officer stated that everyone will adhere to it as a "core priority." The company also stated that a lack of security focus could impact promotions, bonuses, and performance-based salary increases for employees. "Delivering impact for the Security Core Priority will be a key input for managers in determining impact and recommending rewards," the memo read. The entire document contains an internal FAQ about the new policy to ensure cooperation among employees. Microsoft Puts Security, Diversity, Inclusion as Performance Factors Previously, the tech giant revealed its focus on diversity and inclusion as part of its performance conversations. The new policy will put security on top of these topics and will be part of the "Connect" priorities. "It goes beyond compliance, as we are asking employees to prioritize security in all the work that they do and hold themselves accountable by capturing their impact for it whenever they complete a Connect," the memo added. Employees will be required to demonstrate security changes. This includes prioritizing security in product design, complying with security practices, and more. Executives must also follow the new policy on future decisions and deliverables. Microsoft has started to implement security changes on some of its internal applications. Several apps like Outlook, will be transitioned to the Modern Authentication process starting September 16. Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (5 August 2024) The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation. The Sever Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 57th Motorised Infantry Brigade, 92nd Assault Brigade, 82nd Air Assault Brigade, and 36th Marine Brigade near Volchansk, Tikhoye, and Liptsy (Kharkov region). The Armed Forces of Ukraine have lost up to 125 troops, six pick-up trucks, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, and one Bukovel-AD electronic warfare station. One Czech-made Vampire MLRS launcher and six field ammunition depots were neutralised. The Zapad Group of Forces has taken more advantageous lines and positions. The Group inflicted fire damage on the 44th, 67th, and 116th mechanised brigades of the Ukrainian Armed Forces of Ukraine close Kolesnikovka, Sinkovka (Kharkov region), and Novosadovoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Four counter-attacks launched by assault groups of the 14th, 117th mechanised brigades, 77th Air Mobile Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and 117th territorial defence brigade were repelled. The enemy suffered losses of up to 495 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, seven motor vehicles, one 155-mm Ukrainian-made Krab self-propelled artillery system, and one German-made Panzerhabitze 2000, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, and one 122-mm D-30 gun. Three AFU ammunition depots were destroyed. The Yug Group of Forces improved its tactical position, inflicted fire damage on manpower and military hardware of the 24th, 28th, and 54th mechanised, 72th Motorised Infantry Brigade, 79th Air Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine close to Predtechino, Trudovoye, Chasov Yar, Konstantinovka, Katerinovka, and Verkhnekamenskoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic). A counter-attack launched by the 5th Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine was successfully repelled. The Ukrainian Armed Forces have lost up to 620 Ukrainian troops, three armoured fighting vehicles, 11 motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, four U.S.-made 105-mm M119 guns, and one UK-made 105-mm L119 gun. Two ammunition depots and one Nota electronic warfare station were destroyed. The Tsentr Group of Forces has improved the situation on the front line and defeated the formations of the 1st Tank Brigade, 32nd, 100th, 117th, 151st mechanised brigades, 142nd Infantry Brigade, 95th Airborne Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, 1st Special Brigade close to Toretsk, Grodovka, Orlovka, and Nikolayevka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Eight counter-attacks launched by assault groups of the 31st, 47th, 53rd, and 117th mechanised brigades, 68th Jaeger Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and the Lyut assault brigade of the Ukrainian National Police have been repelled. The enemy losses included up to 325 Ukrainian troops, one tank, three armoured fighting vehicles, two motor vehicles, one 203-mm Pion self-propelled artillery system, and one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer. The Vostok Group of Forces took more favourable positions and inflicted fire damage on manpower and hardware of the 72nd Mechanised Brigade, 58th Motorised Infantry Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and the 129th Territorial Defence Brigade close to Razdolnoye, Vodyanoye, and Vremevka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). The Armed Forces of Ukraine lost up to 115 Ukrainian troops, one tank, eight motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one 152-mm Msta-B gun, and two Bukovel-AD electronic warfare stations. Three AFU ammunition depots were destroyed. The Dnepr Group of Forces engaged the units of the 128th Mountain Assault Brigade, 141st Infantry Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, 39th Coast Defence Brigade near Malyye Shcherbaki, Nesteryanka (Zaporozhye region), and Tokarevka (Kherson region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 70 Ukrainian troops, eight motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, and one 152-mm D-20 howitzer. Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have engaged two POL depots, clusters of AFU manpower and hardware in 132 areas during the day. Air defence units shot down six U.S.-made ATACMS operational and tactical missiles, four French-made SCALP-EG air-launched cruise missiles, seven U.S.-made HIMARS projectiles, one French-made Hammer air bomb, and 43 UAVs. In total, 633 airplanes and 278 helicopters, 29,184 unmanned aerial vehicles, 561 air defence missile systems, 16,774 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,396 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 12,843 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 24,396 units of special military equipment have been destroyed in the special military operation. Tags: WtR In partnership with Hot August Nights (HAN), The Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) of Washoe County will be providing free rides on certain routes and transit services it provides. RTC will be providing free rides on its RAPID Virginia Line and RAPID Lincoln Line transits as well as its Route 1 and Route 11 through Sunday, August 11. RTC's RAPID Lincoln Line and Route 11 rides run from Reno to Sparks on Fourth Street and Prater Way. Its RAPID Virginia Line and Route 1 rides run along Virginia Street. In addition, RTC ACCESS will offer free rides within three-quarters of a mile of the Atlantis Casino, Nugget Casino Resort, Peppermill Casino and Downtown Reno. You can plan your trip to the various HAN events ahead of time by clicking here. Elon Musk seems to not be done with OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman as he reopened the lawsuit against the AI startup just over a month after initially withdrawing it, Ars Technica reported. In a new lawsuit filed in a California District Court on Monday, Musk accused Altman and his co-conspirators of taking advantage of Musk's "humanitarian concern about the existential dangers posed by artificial intelligence." The Tesla CEO claimed that his fellow co-founders intended to "betray" these promises from the start through "sham altruism" and the idea that OpenAI was a non-profit firm. The new lawsuit hinged on the company's recent plans to launch its own AI-powered search engine to compete with Google Search, a proposition Musk sees as a violation of his initial agreement with Altman to fund OpenAI. Musk stopped pouring investments into AI startups in 2018 after accusing the CEO of recasting a non-profit organization into a "moneymaking endeavor to bring in shareholders, sell equity, and raise capital." Elon Musk Pushes to Void Microsoft GPT-4 Deal with OpenAI Different from his first lawsuit, Musk is now seeking to void OpenAI's exclusive licensing deal with Microsoft. The tech billionaire claimed the tech giant has an "enormous financial interest" in OpenAI's product, making it impossible to determine if Microsoft is powering OpenAI's "for-profit apparatus" left to "operate fully unchecked." To null the agreement, Musk is urging the court to determine whether OpenAI's current GPT-4 models can already be considered as Artificial General Intelligence, essentially putting Microsoft under regulatory scrutiny for potential market manipulation. Microsoft stepped up to replace Musk as the company's biggest investor in 2019 in exchange for powering its latest AI models and cloud-powered platforms. The tech giant later stepped down from its board position in the company amid global regulatory scrutiny for its major AI deals. Elon Musk Poses to Lead AI Race It is worth noting that Microsoft is not the only party interested in taking hold of the OpenAI brand while it is at its peak of popularity. During the first filing of the lawsuit against OpenAI, Altman claimed Musk is only suing the company to merge it with Tesla. Musk, at the time, was reportedly acquiring more data center tools to build his supercomputer, touted to power his long-planned robotaxi venture for Tesla. Similar trends can be seen in other Musk-owned companies with the recent development ramp-ups to produce chatbots and generative AI tools seen to compete with other tech giants. A man was arrested in Elko after allegedly stealing explosives from a mine site. According to the Elko Police Department, a family member told police that 33-year-old Julian Ricker had stolen some explosives from a mine site he was working at. His employer was the company Small Mine Development. The Elko Bomb Squad went to his home and say they found explosives commonly used in mining. Ricker was not home during the search but was later found by police and arrested. He faces charges including possession of explosives and his bail is set at $115,000. Small Mine Development and Nevada Gold Mines were both contacted and police say they are cooperating with the investigation. They are also taking steps to ensure that no other thefts occur. If anyone has information that can help, please contact the Elko non-emergency line at (775) 777-7300. You can also stay anonymous by contacting Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900. Should I believe the response when I see Google using artificial intelligence to answer my question? Artificial intelligence has exploded into our consciousness, but people have plenty of confusion around AI and search how they overlap, how theyre different. This makes your question timely and relevant. It also raises justifiable concerns around potential AI bias, the sources behind search results and what have come to be known as hallucinations. Thats when an AI spits out results that sound plausible but are wrong. Now youre wondering if AI will somehow screw things up? Google has long had a stranglehold on the search market. More than 9 out of 10 web searches worldwide are on Google, and 15 years ago the statistics were strikingly similar. A federal court ruled Monday that the tech giant is an illegal monopolist. Ask The Tech Guru AARP writer Ed Baig will answer your most pressing technology questions every Tuesday. Baig previously worked for USA Today, BusinessWeek, U.S. News & World Report and Fortune, and is author of Macs for Dummies and coauthor of iPhone for Dummies and iPad for Dummies. Have a question? Email personaltech@aarp.org Companies are melding AI and search Some months ago, I asked a Google executive how search and AI differ. He explained Google search is about supplying answers, and AI about providing possibilities. While AI and search can complement one another, a merging of them in some fashion was probably inevitable. Microsoft has tried this with its Bing search engine. So has a San Francisco upstart called Perplexity.ai. And just the other day, OpenAI, the company that brought about the generative AI craze with the October 2022 launch of ChatGPT, announced SearchGPT, seen as a direct competitor to Google. SearchGPT is still a prototype and not yet publicly available except to a few test users and publishers. You can join a wait list to try it at OpenAIs website. AI is summarizing other websites in Googles AI Overviews That brings us back to Google. In May at its annual I/O developer conference, Google outlined how a custom AI model known as Gemini could take the legwork out of searching. Google began rolling out a feature from its labs called AI Overviews, AI-generated summaries that feed into a company spiel to Let Google do the Googling for you. ISX Financial Reports Strong Q2 2024 Results Nicosia, Aug 5, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - ISX Financial EU PLC ("ISX Plc"), is pleased to present its earnings for Q2 2024. Building on the back of a record Q1 24, ISX Plc is pleased to have delivered yet another robust quarter, marking a continuation of its upward trajectory and solidifying its position as a leader in both 'banktech' and regtech sectors. Robust Growth ISX Financial has demonstrated remarkable growth, with revenues soaring by an impressive 74% year-on-year. Despite a minor 2% decrease quarter-on-quarter, the company continues to maintain a strong upward trajectory. Net Assets surged significantly, with a 123% year-on-year increase and a 35% rise from the previous quarter. These metrics underscore the company's resilience and growing market presence. Financial Strength The company has solidified its position as a market leader, boasting an EBITDA margin of 56%. This strong margin reflects ISX Financial's ability to manage costs efficiently while delivering exceptional value to its clients. As a hybrid banktech payments company, ISX Financial continues to provide direct financial services to customers and offer robust infrastructure solutions to other financial institutions. Innovation Focus ISX Financial remains at the forefront of technological advancements, investing EUR0.7 million in Research and Development during Q2 2024. This investment is part of the company's ongoing commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions. Notably, the company received a formal Notice of Allowance from the US Patent and Trade Mark Office (USPTO) for a new patent in the family "Verifying identity with uninterrupted video." This patent exemplifies ISX Financial's dedication to enhancing security and convenience for its users. Ajay Treon , CFO of ISX Financial EU PLC, commented "As we carry forward the momentum from our successes in 2023 and the first quarter of 2024, ISX continues to demonstrate strong performance this quarter, exceeding expectations. Our focus and strategic initiatives have enabled us to achieve significant milestones, reinforcing our commitment to growth and innovation in the 'banktech' and payments sector." Future Outlook Looking ahead, ISX Financial is revising its 2024 revenue target to EUR50 million, reflecting confidence in its strategic planning and execution capabilities. The company aims to continue driving sustained growth, with plans to expand its EBITDA margin range to 30%-40% based on its diverse mix of business lines. Nikogiannis Karantzis, CEO and Managing Director of ISX Financial EU PLC, commented, "Our Q2 results highlight our commitment to innovation and profitable growth, allowing us to continue providing exceptional services to our customers. As we invest in cutting-edge technologies and expand our offerings, we are confident in achieving our ambitious goals and delivering long-term value to our stakeholders." You can view the full ISX Financial EU PLC Q2 2024 earnings through the link below: https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/79208Y9E About ISX Financial ISX Financial EU PLC is a 'banktech' company that leverages its own technology to provide financial services to merchants across the EEA & UK. The company's combined payments stack and infrastructure provides a complete end-to-end transactional banking, FX, remittance and payment processing capability. ISXMoney's multi-Currency IBAN accounts coupled with PaidBy Bank instant open banking provide merchants with a tailored payment solution to reach any UK or EEA bank account holders. ISX Financial's consumer product "flykk" is a digital wallet that combines all its financial technology and infrastructure to create a retail product. flykk(R) is a two-sided network developed on ISX's own platform that links both merchants and consumers around the globe to facilitate the processing of payment transactions. flykk(R) allows customers to use their account for both purchase and paying for goods, as well as to transfer and withdraw funds, with the benefits of a Diners card for point of sale transactions. ISX Financial's subsidiary Probanx(R) also develops payment infrastructure for third parties, and provides connectivity to central banks, banks around the world and major card schemes. Related Companies Chevron will be the latest petroleum supplier to move its headquarters from California to Texas as the state slowly transitions away from fossil fuel consumption to clean energy. First reported by The Wall Street Journal, the US oil giant announced plans to relocate to Houston to "enable better collaboration and engagement with executives, employees, and business partners." Chevron has been operating in California for over 145 years now. Chevron to Face Less Environmental Regulation Resistance in Texas Texas is among the conservative states that still rely mostly on fossil fuel for transportation as lawmakers impose stricter tax rules around EV drivers. Climate change-related and energy efficiency bills also have a hard time being legislated, making it the perfect for the remaining few oil producers to keep afloat amidst restrictive laws in other states. It did not help that state legislators have previously passed a huge economic package to incentivize the oil and gas industry to increase operations in Texas, notably excluding wind and solar energy corporations. This is in contrast to Chevron's recent legal battles with state regulators in its office in Sacramento over recent energy and climate policies imposed on California. Also Read : Florida Rolls Back on Climate Change Actions Despite Heat Waves Threat Chevron to Provide Safety Net for Texas's Power Crisis If there is one benefit the relocation does for the states, it would likely be Chevron becoming a safety net for Texas as energy demands are set to rise during the summer season. This, however, would also mean that the state would be more vulnerable to greenhouse gas effects as increased carbon emissions would likely elevate air pollution in many areas. In the same manner, the state would also be more prone to severe weather conditions that have originally caused the increase in gas and fossil fuel consumption to meet growing energy demands, according to an Earth.org analysis. Finalises Frankfurt and US OTC Listing Melbourne, Aug 6, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Lithium Universe Limited ( ASX:LU7 ) ( KU00:FRA ) ( LUVSF:OTCMKTS ) is pleased to announce it has been officially quoted on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FRA) and US-based OTC Markets Group platform (OTC), allowing its securities to be readily accessed by European and North American investors. The Company is quoted under ( KU00:FRA ). The Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FRA), also known as the Borse Frankfurt, is one of the world's largest and most efficient trading centers for securities playing a critical role in the European and global economy. Operated by Deutsche Borse AG, the exchange, known for its high transparency, robust regulatory standards, and advanced trading technology serves as a hub for international investors and companies. The Company is quoted under ( LUVSF:OTCMKTS ). OTC Markets Group operates the largest trading platform in North America for over-the-counter (OTC) securities, providing transparent and efficient marketplaces for a diverse range of US and international companies. The group offers three market tiers: OTCQX, OTCQB, and Pink, catering to companies at various stages of growth and compliance levels. Both quotations will expand our access to capital markets, enhancing our ability to raise funds from a more diverse investor base. It may also facilitate trading of our shares in local currencies and during local market hours, increasing liquidity and investor participation. This initiative is a key part of our growth strategy, aimed at fostering long-term value for our shareholders and strengthening our presence in international markets. Lithium Universe Chairman, Iggy Tan said, "The Company is pleased to announce the diversification of our investor base as we accelerate the development of the Becancour Lithium Refinery in Quebec. This initiative provides access to sophisticated European and North American investors, supporting our efforts to advance our unique strategy." About Lithium Universe Ltd Lithium Universe Ltd (ASX:LU7) (FRA:KU00) (OTCMKTS:LUVSF), headed by industry trail blazer, Iggy Tan, and the Lithium Universe team has a proven track record of fast-tracking lithium projects, demonstrated by the successful development of the Mt Cattlin spodumene project for Galaxy Resources Limited. Instead of exploring for the sake of exploration, Lithium Universe's mission is to quickly obtain a resource and construct a spodumene-producing mine in Quebec, Canada. Unlike many other Lithium exploration companies, Lithium Universe possesses the essential expertise and skills to develop and construct profitable projects. About OTC Markets Group Inc. OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX:OTCM) operates a financial marketplace for 10,000 United States and global securities through the broker of their choice. Through its OTC Link ATS, the Company directly link a diverse network of broker-dealers that provide liquidity and execution services for a spectrum of securities. the Company organizes these securities into three marketplaces to inform investors of opportunities and risks: OTCQX, the best marketplace with qualified companies; OTCQB, the venture stage marketplace with the United States reporting Companies; and OTC Pink, the open marketplace with variable Reporting companies. The OTCQX marketplace offers the informed and trading for the United States and global companies. The OTCQB marketplace offers informed trading for securities of smaller or developing companies that are reporting to a United States regulator (SEC, Bank, or Insurance). The OTC Pink marketplace offers trading in a spectrum of equity securities through any broker. Related Companies Adda52.com, India's No.1 online poker destination, recently concluded a record-breaking edition of the DPT Xpress held from July 24th to 29th. The event featured an impressive prize pool of INR 3.87 Cr, attracting over 400 participants to the luxurious Deltin Royale casino in Goa. In the six-day series, Dhaval Doshi emerged as the winner of the Xpress Main Event, winning INR 25.08 Lacs. This edition of the DPT Xpress showcased a thrilling lineup of 10 tournaments, including the Main Event, Highroller, and Mystery Bounty. To enhance accessibility, the tournament introduced the innovative DPT Rush format, with Day 1 online and Day 2 offline. In addition, the top 100 players from Day 1 were awarded a travel voucher worth INR 20,000. Participants also had the chance to compete in special events such as the Mini Highroller, Closure, and the 7.5 Lac Freeroll, adding diverse and exciting opportunities throughout the series. Furthermore, Sadnipan Das bagged the win in the Highroller event, securing a prize of INR 11.35 Lacs. Additionally, Bikky Gupta triumphed in the much-anticipated DPT Rush, claiming a prize exceeding INR 16.5 Lacs. Speaking on the culmination of DPT, Joydeep Mukherjee, Chief Marketing Officer, Adda52.com said, "With the closure of the DPT Xpress, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and participants who made this comeback edition a resounding success. The incredible turnout for the DPT Xpress reaffirms our belief that poker is increasingly becoming a lifestyle sport in India. Events like this also highlight the potential of live poker in building a robust poker community in the country, encouraging us to bring more such events to the fore. Dhirubhai Ambani University (DAU) has announced the appointment of Prof. (Dr.) Avinash Dadhich as the Founding Director to lead the establishment of the proposed School of Law. Dr. Dadhich's blend of diverse experience, covering academia, legal consultancy, and practice, focuses on the law and regulation of AI, data privacy, and competition law. Dr. Dadhich expressed his enthusiasm about joining DAU, stating, "I am delighted to join DAU at this pivotal time when it is transforming into a multi-disciplinary university through the addition of various disciplines, including the School of Law. Late Shri Dhirubhai Ambani always stood for excellence on a global scale. I am excited to work with the DAU team on this journey to build a world-class institution in legal education." Invited by the USA government as an Antitrust IVLP Fellow, Dr. Dadhich received full scholarships for his Ph.D. from UK, LL.M. from France, and earned LL.B. from Delhi University. In his academic career, he has held senior roles, including Director at Manipal Law School, MAHE, Bengaluru, and Dean at IFIM Law School, Bengaluru. He was invited as a visiting research fellow at the Max Planck Institute of IP and Competition, Munich; the Institute of European Studies, Brussels; and King's College London. In addition to being a legal scholar, Dr. Dadhich has also worked as an advocate in the Supreme Court of India and has consulted on legal matters at Deloitte and EY, Gide Loyrette Nouel, Paris, White & Case, Brussels, and the Competition Commission of India. Himalaya BabyCare, a part of Himalaya Wellness Company, one of the pioneering wellness brands in India has released yet another heartening film on the occasion of Breast Feeding Week. Himalaya BabyCare has been working towards increasing awareness of challenges faced by new mothers, especially around breastfeeding. This film throws a light on the brands initiatives for providing support to the mother in her new journey. Himalaya BabyCare has set up close to 265 feeding rooms at public places like airports and railway stations, enabling more than 30Lac new moms to breastfeed outdoors, without any hassle or judgement. Speaking on the latest film Sunitha Natarajan, Director - Digital Strategy, Social Panga said, "As we commemorate Breastfeeding Week, it's vital to acknowledge the power of collective support in empowering mothers to make informed decisions about their health and their baby's well-being. Effective communication plays a pivotal role in raising awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and addressing the challenges mothers face. Through collaboration, we can foster a supportive environment that emboldens mothers to breastfeed with confidence. We are thrilled to have joined forces with the Himalaya Babycare team to amplify awareness around Breastfeeding Week and promote a culture of support for nursing mothers." Himanshu Arora, Co-Founder of Social Panga said, We are glad to be part of Himalaya BabyCares initiative for breastfeeding women. Himalaya BabyCare has always been the leader when it comes to mothers and babies and helping them create a larger digital presence has been exciting. Women still feel judged and uncomfortable when it comes to breastfeeding in public and with this film we want to showcase the support provided by Himalaya BabyCare on the 265 feeding pods planted across India. This film has been launched across digital platforms, and airports and will be promoted during the entire Breastfeeding Week. Joy Chatterjee has been promoted to the role of Vice President and Head of Sales and Marketing at Mankind Pharma. Previously, he held the position of Associate Vice President. Chatterjee has been a part of the company for almost 19 years, initially joining as Deputy General Manager of Marketing in the year 2006. On social media, he shared his excitement about the promotion, expressing gratitude for the support and opportunities he received. His post read : "Thrilled to announce my promotion to Vice President at Mankind Pharma. Grateful for the opportunities and support that have paved the way for this achievement. Special thanks to Rajeev Sir, all seniors, and my incredible team. My team is my strength, and I am where I am today because of them. Excited to continue driving innovation and excellence in our mission to make healthcare accessible for all." Max Factor, the iconic Hollywood brand known for its groundbreaking innovations, is making a splash in India's vibrant beauty scene. Partnering with their Global Ambassador, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Max Factor launches its latest campaign, "What's Your X." "What's Your X" goes beyond makeup trends. It's a movement that celebrates individuality, self-expression, and the qualities that make each person extraordinary. It reflects the spirit of Priyanka Chopra Jonas and her inspiring career, encouraging everyone to embrace their "X-traordinary" selves. Building on their tagline "Reveal Your Extraordinary," Max Factor empowers individuals to showcase their unique beauty with confidence. "What's Your X" fosters a sense of community, body positivity, and self-love, highlighting the strength of women who support and uplift one another. Renowned collaborators lead the charge Max Factor partners with the renowned celebrity makeup artist Mehak Oberoi, known for her work with Bollywood stars. Oberoi leads the campaign alongside a team of 400 top beauty influencers, including Sakshi Sindhwani, Ishani Mitra, Tarini Manchanda, Simmy Goraya, and Smriti Khanna. This diverse group brings their unique talents and perspectives to the forefront, with Priyanka Chopra Jonas playing a pivotal role in the campaign's launch and engagement. "Max Factor has always championed self-expression," says Mansi Sharma, Creative Director at House of Beauty. "We're excited to launch this social media campaign speaking directly to India's youth. By collaborating with 400 of the countrys top influencers and beauty experts, who in essence are the voice of todays beauty consumer, we aim to take over social media and highlight the power of makeup as a tool for self-expression, celebration, and confidence. By collaborating with such a vast network of influencers, Max Factor aims to reach over 35 million customers and solidify its presence in India's dynamic beauty scene. The campaign is now live, encouraging everyone to reveal their own "X-traordinary" side. "Associating with Max Factor for the 'What's Your X' campaign has been incredible," says Mehak Oberoi. "Makeup empowers self-expression, and this campaign celebrates that. I'm excited to see individuals across India reveal their extraordinary selves." Follow the hashtag #WhatsYourX on social media and see how people are expressing themselves with Max Factor makeup. In this two-part report, Adgully does an in-depth analysis of the growth of CTV advertising in India, and the numerous factors driving this growth. The report also tracks the emerging trends and opportunities in CTV advertising, besides dwelling on how to leverage CTV advertising for stronger brand awareness and recall; digital targeting and CTVs immersive experience; impact of Generative AI on CTV advertising, and much more. Also read: Potential of CTV advertising in India: Revolutionising how ads are targeted and delivered How brands can sharpen their ad strategies for sports broadcasting with rise of CTV Measuring the ROI of CTV Advertising Campaigns Connected TV (CTV) advertising has emerged as a powerful tool in the marketers arsenal, offering a 30% higher return on investment (ROI) compared to other marketing channels. The key to optimizing this ROI lies in leveraging real-time performance measurements and advanced analytics. Deepak Verma, COO, ImagesBazaar, underscores the growing relevance of data and analytics, stating, Advertisers can employ advanced attribution modeling, audience segmentation, performance tracking, A/B testing, and data integration to obtain insights and make data-driven ROI adjustments. Furthermore, the growing relevance of data and analytics in CTV advertising opens up new opportunities for advertisers to properly analyze and optimize campaign performance. Advertisers can use advanced analytics to acquire significant insights into viewer behaviour, ad engagement, and conversion metrics, resulting in better informed decisions and higher ROI. Emphasizing on the importance of utilizing advanced analytics and attribution models, Ambika Sharma, Founder & MD, Pulp Strategy, says, To measure and optimize the ROI of CTV advertising campaigns, advertisers should leverage advanced analytics and attribution models that track viewer interactions across devices and platforms. The basics remain more or less similar to other digital mediums, including monitoring key performance indicators such as impressions, engagement rates, conversions, and lifetime value. Implementing A/B testing can help advertisers determine which creatives and strategies resonate best with their audience. Furthermore, leveraging data-driven insights to refine audience targeting and personalize ad content can significantly improve campaign effectiveness. Advertisers should also consider adopting a multi-touch attribution model to better understand the customer journey and allocate budgets more efficiently across channels. Yasin Hamidani, CEO, Media Care Brand Solutions, outlines several strategies for optimizing ROI in CTV advertising: Advanced Analytics: Use data analytics tools to track viewer engagement, ad impressions, and conversions. Platforms like Google Analytics and proprietary CTV analytics solutions can provide detailed insights. Attribution Models: Implement multi-touch attribution models to understand the consumer journey across different devices and platforms, linking CTV ads to final conversions. A/B Testing: Conduct A/B testing for different ad creatives and formats to identify what resonates best with the target audience, thereby optimizing ad spend. Surveys and Feedback: Collect viewer feedback through surveys to gauge ad effectiveness and viewer sentiment. Performance Metrics: Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as cost per acquisition (CPA), return on ad spend (ROAS), and view-through rates to evaluate campaign success and make data-driven adjustments. Highlighting the importance of brand lift studies, Vikas Chawla, Co-Founder, Social Beat, says As with any other brand campaign, running brand lift studies and matched market studies is the best way to understand the impact. We are also increasingly seeing brands test the direct impact of these campaigns on marketplaces & quick commerce platforms via a call to action or QR code though direct impact for a brand campaign should be taken as a slice of the overall impact. Rekha Motwani, VP - Media, #ARM Worldwide, recommends focusing on specific metrics. Advertisers should focus on tracking key metrics such as impressions, Video Completion Rates (VCR), Cost per completed view (CPCV), and Click-through Rates (CTR). Additionally, conversion tracking is essential to measure post-ad exposure actions, such as website visits or purchases. This can provide a clear picture of the long-term impact of the ads on buyer behavior. Strategies such as A/B testing, Randomized Control Trials (RCTs), and multi-touch attribution can help advertisers identify the most effective ad placements, adjust their marketing mix, and ensure optimal budget usage. Additionally, frequency capping can limit how often the same ad is shown to a viewer, enhancing the viewer experience, she adds. Elaborating on sophisticated measurement techniques, Abhishek Tiwari, Founder & CEO, NetSetGo Media, says, Measuring and optimizing the ROI of DTC advertising campaigns across CTV has become more sophisticated. Advertisers are implementing cross-device attribution models across multi-screens for customer journeys. Incremental lift studies are used to establish the actual impact of CTV ads. ACR data drives insights on exposure to actual ads on smart TVs. Unified measurement platforms help consolidate these different sources of data. Outcomes-based metrics, such as site visits and app installs, are afforded more attention than impressions or views alone. Of course, A/B testing creative and targeting strategies is the norm. Next-gen analytics platforms like Nielsens Digital Ad Ratings and Comscores Campaign Ratings drive much-needed accuracy in measurement across CTV and other digital media to allow marketers and brands to better strive for and optimize their ROI. Delphin Varghese, Co-Founder & Chief Business Officer, AdCounty Media, stresses on the importance of tracking vital KPIs and says, Tracking vital KPIs like viewability, completion rate, frequency, reach, click-through rates, and conversion rate are extremely essential to assess the effectiveness of CTV advertising campaigns. Also, capitalizing on multi-touch attribution models is crucial to comprehend the efficacy of CTV ads across different touchpoints of the customer journey. It is also essential to monitor performance in real-time and optimize ad elements, placements, etc. to improve performance. Integrating first-party data for precise targeting can help improve conversion rates. Programmatic advertising should be leveraged to optimize ad placements in real-time so that they reach the right audience at the right time and through the right channel. Measuring and optimizing the ROI of CTV advertising campaigns involves a multi-faceted approach, combining advanced analytics, real-time performance tracking, and strategic testing. Data & Analytics: The Key to Efficient CTV Advertising Data and analytics are pivotal in distinguishing Connected TV (CTV) advertising from traditional TV advertising. According to CoLab Media Consulting, 46% of marketers invest in CTV advertising due to its advanced audience targeting capabilities. Rekha Motwani emphasizes on the importance of data-driven insights. She says, Through data-driven insights, advertisers can ensure their ads reach the right audience, leading to higher engagement and conversion rates. They can also personalize the ads in real time based on performance analytics and CRM data. For instance, a streaming service can target a new movie trailer to users who frequently watch similar genres. Measuring success and optimizing campaigns Data analytics are essential for measuring the success of ad campaigns and making necessary adjustments. Motwani further explains, A brand can monitor its CTV ads Click-through Rate (CTR) and tweak the creative if engagement drops. Advertisers can similarly measure post-ad actions such as website visits or purchases to accurately calculate the campaigns ROI. Ambika Sharma adds here, Data and analytics provide insights into audience behavior, preferences, and engagement patterns, enabling advertisers to tailor their campaigns more precisely. By analyzing data, marketers can optimize ad placements, frequency, and creative content to maximize impact. The integration of AI and machine learning further enhances data analysis, enabling predictive modeling and more informed decision-making. Highlighting the role of real-time analytics, Yasin Hamidani says, Real-time analytics provide insights into ad performance, allowing for immediate adjustments to enhance effectiveness. Furthermore, data-driven attribution models help in understanding the customer journey, linking ad exposures to conversions, and refining strategies. Best Practices for Efficient CTV Advertising Leverage Data-Driven Targeting : Use data and analytics to understand viewer demographics, behaviors, and preferences, ensuring ads are delivered to the right audience segments. Use data and analytics to understand viewer demographics, behaviors, and preferences, ensuring ads are delivered to the right audience segments. Creative Personalization : Tailor ad creatives to resonate with different audience segments, enhancing engagement and relevance. Tailor ad creatives to resonate with different audience segments, enhancing engagement and relevance. Optimize Frequency Capping : Control ad frequency to avoid overexposure and ad fatigue, ensuring a positive viewer experience. Control ad frequency to avoid overexposure and ad fatigue, ensuring a positive viewer experience. Cross-Device Integration : Integrate CTV campaigns with other digital channels for a seamless multi-platform strategy, maximizing reach and impact. Integrate CTV campaigns with other digital channels for a seamless multi-platform strategy, maximizing reach and impact. Performance Monitoring and Adjustment : Continuously monitor campaign performance and use real-time data to make necessary adjustments for optimal results. Continuously monitor campaign performance and use real-time data to make necessary adjustments for optimal results. Compliance with Privacy Regulations: Ensure all data collection and usage practices comply with local privacy laws to maintain viewer trust. Delphin Varghese, Co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer, AdCounty Media, underscores the importance of capitalizing on first-party data and says, Creating detailed audience segments and tailoring ad experiences to meet the specific needs of each can boost engagement and conversion. Employing behavioral and geographical targeting ensures better resonance. Pointing out the advantages of richer analytics, Vikas Chawla says, Compared to the limited audience data set that BARC uses for TV, CTV comes with richer analytics from Google, Samsung, and increasingly from the OTTs too. Disney+ Hotstar also launched their self-serve model for advertisers, leading to more brands and agencies leveraging CTV. Abhishek Tiwari emphasizes on the role of predictive modeling, stating, Predictive modeling can help forecast the performance of campaigns before they roll out and improve upon it. Cross-channel attribution provides an overarching view of how CTV ads interact with other marketing efforts, driving better performance outcomes. Deepak Verma, COO, Images Bazaar, summarizes the importance of data and analytics, saying, Advertisers can acquire important insights about their target audience by studying viewer behaviour, preferences, and content engagement. This results in more effective and tailored advertising, which improves the efficiency of CTV advertising initiatives. By implementing these best practices, advertisers can enhance the effectiveness and ROI of their CTV advertising campaigns, leading to increased engagement, higher ROI, and better brand recognition. Leveraging CTV Advertising for Stronger Brand Awareness and Recall Connected TV (CTV) advertising has emerged as a powerful tool for brands to build stronger brand awareness and recall. As this medium continues to grow, experts in the field share their insights on how brands can effectively harness CTV advertising to achieve their marketing goals. Creating Engaging Content Emphasizing the importance of high-quality and captivating content, Yasin Hamidani says, Brands can leverage CTV advertising by producing ads that are tailored to the interests of their target audience. Ensuring the content is memorable and impactful is key to building brand awareness and recall. Utilizing Advanced Targeting CTVs data-driven targeting capabilities are a game-changer for brands. According to Hamidani, Leveraging these capabilities to reach specific audience segments enhances the relevance and effectiveness of the ads. Integrating Cross-Platform Strategies Combining CTV campaigns with other digital and traditional marketing efforts creates a cohesive brand presence across multiple channels. Delphin Varghese of AdCounty Media adds, Maintaining consistent messaging across channels ensures a coherent brand experience and identity. This integration improves recall and boosts engagement. Interactive Ads Interactive ad formats that encourage viewer engagement make the brand experience more immersive and memorable. Varghese notes, Brands can improve recall by integrating shoppable ads with clickable links or interactive overlays, forming deeper connections with the target audience through personalization based on viewer preferences and past behaviour. Consistent Messaging Vikas Chawla, Co-Founder, Social Beat, stresses on the importance of creativity combined with the right targeting. Creative is still at the heart of building strong awareness. This, combined with the right targeting and threshold reach & frequency, can create a significant impact, he adds. Digital Targeting and CTVs Immersive Experience Rekha Motwani highlights the unique combination of digital targeting and TV's immersive viewing experience that CTV offers. She notes, CTV allows brands to target specific demographics, geographies, and viewer interests with precision, ensuring that ads reach the most relevant audience segments. In India, the digital video ad market is expected to grow significantly, with CTV being a major driver. Interactive and Memorable Ad Formats According to a report by IAB, 73% of CTV viewers remember the ads they see, compared to 65% for traditional TV. Interactive ad formats on CTV, such as shoppable ads and QR codes, can engage viewers more deeply, driving higher recall rates, says Motwani. Leveraging data-driven insights to personalize ad content further enhances viewer engagement and retention. Innovative Opportunities Abhishek Tiwari of NetSetGo Media points out the innovative opportunities that CTV ads offer. High-impact ad formats like full-screen takeovers are highly memorable. Sequential storytelling can build a narrative over time across multiple ad exposures, and contextual relevance of ads brings brand messages closer to the consumer. Retargeting CTV viewers on other devices can provide additional touchpoints for brand reinforcement. Consistent Branding and Emotional Narratives Deepak Verma, COO, Images Bazaar, believes that consistent branding across CTV advertising and other marketing media helps strengthen brand identity and increase awareness and recall. Narratives in CTV advertising can elicit emotional responses from the audience, making the brand more memorable. Integrating CTV advertising with other digital media helps increase reach and strengthen brand presence across different devices. By focusing on creating engaging content, utilizing advanced targeting, integrating cross-platform strategies, and employing interactive ad formats, brands can effectively use CTV advertising to enhance their visibility and strengthen brand recall among consumers. The combination of creative storytelling, precise targeting, and innovative ad formats makes CTV a powerful medium for building brand awareness in the modern digital landscape. Impact of Generative AI on CTV Advertising: A Revolution in Personalized Engagement Generative AI is rapidly transforming the landscape of CTV advertising, offering a new era of personalized experiences and optimized campaigns. Creating Engaging and Personalized Ads: Rekha Motwani: Generative AI personalizes content, tailoring it to individual viewer preferences. Imagine ads with imagery, messaging, and calls to action that adapt in real-time based on viewer behavior thats the power of AI! Delphin Varghese: AI analyzes vast amounts of user data to understand interests and preferences, crafting tailored ad experiences that resonate deeply. Impact on Production and Optimization: Vikas Chawla: AI streamlines workflows and reduces costs. Automated tools generate multiple ad variations for A/B testing and optimization at scale. Yasin Hamidani: AI analyzes performance data in real-time, providing insights for continuous improvement. This allows for high-quality, customized ads that maximize engagement and ROI. Abhishek Tiwari: AI drives efficient automatic generation of variant ads for production and testing. Viewer data fuels personalization of ad content at scale and in real-time. Benefits of Generative AI in CTV Advertising: Increased Engagement: Personalized content resonates more with viewers, leading to higher engagement and recall. Rekha Motwani cites a 40% higher engagement rate for personalized ads in India. Enhanced User Experience: Interactive ad formats and personalized messages fostered by AI create a more enjoyable viewing experience, says Delphin Varghese. Improved ROI: Automation, real-time data analysis, and targeted ad delivery minimize ad waste and maximize return on investment, says Vikas Chawla. Faster Content Creation: AI automates content creation, allowing for quicker turnaround times and efficient campaign testing, says Abhishek Tiwari. Hyper-Personalization: Generative AI opens doors for hyper-personalized ad experiences tailored to individual viewers at scale. The Future of CTV Advertising with AI: Experts like Abhishek Tiwari believe that the impact of AI will continue to grow, leading to: Faster and more cost-effective content creation Stronger predictive models for campaign optimization Advanced natural language processing for voice-activated ads Closer integration with other AI-driven marketing channels Overall, generative AI is revolutionizing CTV advertising by creating a win-win situation for both brands and viewers. Personalized experiences lead to increased engagement, while automation and data-driven insights optimize campaigns for better results. As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative applications in CTV advertising, pushing the boundaries of creativity, delivery, and measurement. Safex Chemicals, one of the leading players in the Global Chemical industry, has announced the appointment of Chandrashekhar Shukla as the new President of Sales & Marketing. Shukla brings a wide ranging experience of 30-years in managing profit center operations, international marketing, and sales and portfolio management for revered brands such as Bayer, BASF, and DCM Shriram Ltd. and Crystal Crop Protection Ltd. Shukla's career is marked by his ability to form and develop high-performing teams, drive business goals, and foster an environment for sustained business growth. His strategic expertise spans managing P&L responsibilities in pesticides, seeds, and farm equipment across India, Thailand, and East Africa. Mr. Shukla's demonstrated ability to drive revenue growth by forging strong connections with influential stakeholders highlights his exceptional strategic acumen in the business landscape. Most recently, he served as the Head of International Business Development at Crystal Crop Protection Limited. His impressive career also includes his role as Vice President of Business Development at Dhanuka Agritech Ltd. S.K. Chaudhary, Founder Director of Safex Chemicals Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the new appointment, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Shukla to the Safex family. His vast experience aligns perfectly with our mission to drive growth and innovation throughout the chemical industry. We are confident that his leadership will significantly contribute to our ongoing success and expansion." Shukla shared his excitement about joining Safex Chemicals Group, saying, "I am honored to join Safex Chemicals, a company renowned for its commitment to excellence across the chemical industry. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at Safex, engaging with our diverse customer base and partners, and driving forward our mission to innovate and provide high-quality chemical solutions for various sectors." This appointment underscores Safex Chemicals' commitment to strengthening its position as a versatile and innovative force in the broader chemical industry, poised to meet the evolving needs of various sectors while maintaining its strong presence in agrochemicals. Debby was still a tropical storm on Tuesday, more than 24 hours after making landfall as a Category 1 hurricane on Floridas Big Bend. Debby, the second hurricane of 2024 in the Atlantic, spent Monday crawling across parts of north Florida and south Georgia, dumping a lot of heavy rain in the process. Debby has been blamed for causing at least five deaths so far. And theres likely a lot more rain to come. The National Hurricane Center said Debbys center was still over south Georgia on Tuesday morning but was poised to move into the western Atlantic Ocean, where it could meander for the next few days. Forecasters warned of a continued major flood threat for parts of the Carolinas and Georgia this week. As of 7 a.m. CDT Tuesday, the center of Tropical Storm Debby was located about 20 miles southwest of Savannah, Ga., and was moving to the northeast at 6 mph. Debby had 45 mph winds, making it a minimal tropical storm. The hurricane center said some strengthening will be possible over the next few days after the center moves over water, but Debby is not expected to become a hurricane again. On the hurricane centers forecast track, Debby is expected to move offshore the Georgia coast later today and drift offshore through Thursday. It could then make a second landfall in South Carolina as a tropical storm on Thursday. But the big headline with Debby will be its rainfall and potential flooding up the Atlantic Coast. Forecasters said potentially historic rainfall of 10 to 20 inches, with maximum amounts of 25 inches, will be possible across southeast Georgia and eastern South and North Carolina through Friday. Areas to the north of that, including the mid-Atlantic coast, could get 4 to 8 inches, and an additional 1 to 2 inches of rain will be possible for parts of the Florida peninsula today. Here is the forecast for rainfall: Here's the forecast for rain from Debby.NHC Some areas in Georgia and South Carolina have already gotten nearly 10 inches of rain, according to The Weather Channel: Tropical Storm Debby is slowly moving along the Southeast coast, already dumping nearly 10 inches of rain in parts of South Carolina and Georgia. pic.twitter.com/QtPeG9AYQP The Weather Channel (@weatherchannel) August 6, 2024 Here are the watches and warnings as of Tuesday morning: * A Storm Surge Warning is in effect from Altamaha Sound, Ga., to the South Santee River, S.C. * A Storm Surge Watch is in effect from north of the South Santee River, S.C., to Cape Fear, N.C. * A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect from Altamaha Sound, Ga., to Little River Inlet, S.C. * A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect from north of Little River Inlet, S.C., to Surf City, N.C. Early Monday morning, radio personality Samuel Mack, better known on the airwaves as Buck Wilde, posted on his Facebook a visual teaser of his return to Birmingham with the 95.7 JAMZ logo at the end of the video. Alright! On my way to Birmingham! They have no idea what theyre getting into, Wilde said in the video. I dont have any idea of what Im getting into either! According to Wilde, hes officially back on the air weekday afternoons from 3-7 p.m. on the popular hip-hop station. Posted by Buck Wilde on Monday, August 5, 2024 Twenty minutes into his Monday show (his first time back on the air), he said, Am I, Buck Wilde, back in Birmingham? Look at this! Crazy right? Im just as surprised as you are! During another break, the personality gave a little more time to speak to his return to the station. My name is Buck Wilde. Yea, its really me. Im here...like...permanently, Wilde said on the air. But you never say permanently because you know I can get fired at any moment. You know me! Back at the station where it all started. You know when they first called me, I thought they were gonna talk to me about putting on the old people station. And I was like eh, that will be cool, but 95.7 JAMZ would better. And I was really surprised when they said OK. Im like What? You gonna send me back home? OK, I like you! So anyways were gonna have fun. They got a lot of rules for me to follow to make sure I dont get in trouble, but Im not following none of that. If I get fired, I get fired. But this aint gonna be no Buck Wilde Morning Show in the afternoon. I mean, we had a lot of fun, but we gonna create something new here. Im gonna talk a lot less, and Im gonna play the music every body is playing, the hits. His radio persona is a play on his name -- wild -- because one story people will remember is Buck Wilde leading the April Fools Cash Drop joke in Birmingham, which led to station protests and made news that week. Wilde returns to the Birmingham airwaves for the first time in 14 years. He worked at WBHJ 95.7 JAMZ when it was birthed under Cox Media in 1997. During his time at the station he hosted The Buck Wilde Morning Show with various co-hosts like Afrika, Deja Vu, Ebony Steele, NuYork, and B.Money. He also gave Rickey Smiley, Roy Wood Jr. and FunnyMaine their starts as on-air comedians. In September 2010, Woods Roy Wood Jr. Show with Nu York and B Money replaced the Buck Wilde Morning Show after Wilde left the station to move his radio show to Dallas K104 FM. If there was anybody to replace me I would have wanted it to be Roy, Wilde said at the time. Wilde would also later work as a the Creative Services Director at WVEE V-103 in Atlanta. Ron Carter, the worlds most recorded jazz bassist, is now part of the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. Carter was inducted into the hall of fame during an Aug. 3 ceremony at the historic Carver Theatre in Birmingham. The program, dubbed A Cool Jazz Afternoon was also a grand reopening party for the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame headquarters. The Carver Theatre, which houses the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, closed for renovations in 2017. While the Carver Theatres lobby and performance hall reopened in 2022, the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fames museum and the Jazz Hall Radio studio remained closed for upgrades and new installations. The Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame museum will officially reopen for visitors on Aug. 6. Carter, popularly known as Mr. Carter or Maestro Carter, is one of jazzs most acclaimed and influential bassists. From 1963 to 1968, he was a member of Miles Daviss Second Great Quintet with Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, and Tony Williams. After leaving the quintet, Carter embarked on an extensive freelance career, playing with jazz luminaries from Lena Horn and Dexter Gordon to Cannonball Adderly and Gil Scott-Heron. Over the years, he expanded his work into different musical genres, recording with greats such as Roberta Flack, Billy Joel, Paul Simon, Bette Middler, and Aretha Franklin. In the 90s, Carter added hip hop to his roster when the rapper Q-Tip of a Tribe Called Quest requested he play on the groups second studio album The Low End Theory. In addition to winning three Grammy awards, Carter has played on over 2,500 individual albums, garnering a Guinness World Record as the most recorded bassist in history. Carter is a Michigan native, but he has roots in Alabama. Earlier this summer, he announced the Jazz Hall of Fame honor on social media, explaining his connection to the state . His mother, Willie Carter, was born in Birmingham and had family in Lee and Lowndes County. On Saturday, more than 400 people including jazz enthusiasts, educators, musicians, and community leaders from around the state gathered inside of the Carver Theatres performance hall for Carters induction. Bishop Jim Lowe-- the son of Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame founder J.L. Lowe and the president of the board of directors -- led the award presentation. Before his address, he asked three politicians to join him on stage: State Rep. Mary Moore; Jefferson County Commissioner Lashunda Scales; and Birmingham City Council member Carole Clarke, who comes from a celebrated Birmingham jazz family. Together, the group presented Carter with an engraved medal and resolutions from the Alabama State Senate and the city of Birmingham. It is my honor to give this to you. For Ron Carter, from Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. This is something we could not do if it had not been for the state, the city, and the county. We recognize this great musician, this great man who contributed so much to jazz, said Lowe, as the performance hall erupted into applause. Bishop Jim Lowe (far left), : Alabama State Rep. Mary Moore, Jefferson County Commissioner Lashunda Scales, and Birmingham City Council member Carole Clarke present Ron Carter with a medal and resolution during his induction into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame on Aug. 3, 2024. (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart Carter, who beamed with pride from behind the podium, thanked the audience but kept his remarks brief. I may come back later and say a little more. But just a little! Carter said as the audience laughed. Following the presentation, a band comprised of Gary Motley on piano, Sherman Irby on saxophone, Rodney Whitaker on bass, Ben Johnson on drums, Collins Bo Berry on trumpet, and vocalist Veronica Swift performed a tribute concert. The set included arrangements and compositions by Carter, including the ballad Candlelight. The concert concluded with the song Stars Fell on Alabama. (from left) Gary Motley, Veronica Swift, Rodney T. Whitaker, Sherman Irby, and Ben Johnson perform a tribute concert to Ron Carter during his induction into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart (from left) Sherman Irby and Collins "Bo" Berry perform during the Ron Carter tribute concert at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart After the concert, Carter returned to the stage to give a brief speech. Theyre having the Olympics in Paris. There must be 465 contestants. And the people who win the medals always get pictures. And so, this picture is dedicated to all the gold medal winners! said Carter. Channeling the victorious spirit of Olympic athletes, he bit his medal as photographers in the room snapped pictures. Ron Carter speaks to the audience in the Carver Theatre performing arts center during his induction into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart Ron Carter poses for a photo on stage during his induction into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame on Aug. 3, 2024 (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart This is mine! said Carter, raising the medal in the air. Then, he lowered his hands and smiled. Ill take a turn on that now, he said, pointing to the bass. He played for about 20 minutes. After the performance, Carter waited to meet people in the audience. Friendly and social, he shook hands, took pictures with attendees, and autographed programs with a gold metallic Sharpie. As the event wound down, he headed upstairs to the museum for a final round of photos with the Jazz Hall of Fame staff. Former Mayor of Birmingham, Dr. Richard Arrington Jr. (left) poses for a photo with Ron Carter after Carter's induction into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart Bassist Ron Carter greets guests and signs autographs on stage after his induction ceremony into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart Ron Carter poses for photographs with guests after his induction ceremony into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart We finally pulled it off Carters induction into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame is the culmination of a year-long process, said Orville Ifill, vice president of the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame board of directors. The idea sprung from a talk with retired Jefferson County Circuit Judge Houston Brown , Hasan Shahid, the son of Birmingham-born jazz legend Amos Gordon , and Dr. Eugene Cain , a Birmingham native and retired deputy superintendent of the Michigan Education Department. While gathered at Browns house, Ifill told the group he was looking for a new inductee to the Jazz Hall of Fame. He was hoping to find a name people would recognize, someone who could help bring a spotlight to the nonprofit. That was when Cain mentioned Ron Carter. I said what? The Ron Carter? And Eugene said Yeah, his mother is from Alabama. And he comes to my place and plays every year, said Ifill. The men told Ifill they could help him get in contact with Carter. One afternoon, Carter called when Ifill was having a video meeting with the Hall of Fame board on Zoom. Ifill immediately left to answer the phone. When he returned to the meeting, he had good news. The Carver Theatre's marquee sign honoring Ron Carter's induction into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart Ron Carter signs a program for bassist Bernard McQueen (left) after A Cool Jazz Afternoon at The Carver Theatre. (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart I said Guys, I just talked to Mr. Ron Carter. And hes willing to be inducted into the Jazz Hall of Fame. And they went quiet, said Ifill. Thats how we got him. And he and I communicated from that point on. He later met Carter when the musician made a trip to Huntsville to perform for an event with the Tennesse Valley Jazz Society. The pair continued the conversation about the induction. And even though renovations kept delaying the opening of the Jazz Hall of Fame, Carter remained interested. I finally said Ron. Were going to open in another year or two. Give me a date and well work around your date, said Ifill. And we finally pulled it off. Being in Birmingham this long is amazing The Jazz Hall of Fame booked a full schedule for Carter. The day before the induction, Carter spent time meeting Birmingham jazz musicians (including fellow Alabama Jazz Hall of Famers) and educators. The trip marked the longest hed spent in Alabama in years. Ive had some great grits. Ive had a lot of hot sun. And Ive met a lot of wonderful people, Carer told AL.com. Being in Birmingham for this long is just amazing to me. Carter said he is looking forward to coming back to Alabama. Not only to network, but also to explore his ancestry. Hes working with historians to trace his family lineage. And it turns out, it wasnt just his mother who has ties to Alabama. His fathers side of the family does too. Its hard to follow my tree. But someone is doing that. One thing they found was my roots in this area. My father was from Terre Haute, Indiana. And his grandfather was from Birmingham, who [later] moved to Terre Haute, Indiana. Carter said he enjoyed seeing the Jazz Hall of Fame museum (Its stunning!), but hes still learning about Birminghams extensive jazz history. (from left) Dr. Leah Tucker, the Executive Director of the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, poses for a photograph with Ron Carter in the Jazz Hall of Fame museum on Aug. 3, 2024 (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart Upstairs in the Jazz Hall of Fame museum, Carter and Lowe chatted about jazz icons the city has birthed. Theres Erskine Hawkins, Fess Whatley. Sammy Lowe. My dad was one. He founded the organization, said Lowe. Id heard the names, replied Carter. But Id never heard them play live because they were all before my time. [READ MORE: So You Say You Play Jazz?: New documentary tells the story of Daniel Jose Carr, Birmingham jazz history] [READ MORE: He taught me patience: Alabama jazz musician Dr. Tolton Rosser remembered as stern but compassionate] Lowe grew up surrounded by noted musicians. He sat at the piano with Duke Ellington when he was a young boy. His family had a close relationship with saxophonist Reuben Phillips and trumpeter Cootie Williams-- two bandleaders Carter knew well. All in all, Carters induction into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame is fitting. Founded in 1978, one of the organizations missions is to preserve jazz through education. In 1999, the Jazz Hall of Fame started giving free Saturday morning lessons to students in grades K-12. Quintell Williams Carter and Ron Carter pose for photographs in the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame museum with the board members of the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame on Aug. 3, 2024 (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart Karden Dickerson (left) and Kwani Dickerson Carson (right), the grandson and daughter of the late bassist and Alabama Jazz Hall of famer Cleveland Cleve Eaton, pose for a phone with Ron Carter (center). Born in Fairfield, Eaton was a renowned bassist known for performing with icons including Count Basie and Ella Fitzgerald. (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart For Dr. Leah Tucker, the Jazz Hall of Fames executive director, memories of the nonprofits education programs have been a guiding force during the years of renovations. One day, she found herself looking at folders filled with hundreds of registration forms from students who had taken classes over the years. When I started looking through all the different books, there were hundreds and hundreds of names of students we have educated, said Tucker. So I know that jazz will not just fade into the past. Initiatives like that please Carter, who is also a renowned educator. And in Birmingham, he was glad to meet a group of musicians who are just as happy to instruct as they are to perform. I think without people like that to spread the word, jazz is going to have a hard time, said Carter. My job is to keep playing and keep teaching. The end of this month will mark the 19th anniversary in which Hurricane Katrina ravaged the U.S. Gulf Coast, knocking out passenger rail service east of New Orleans ever since. But after years of negotiations, litigation, and frustrations, the conductor hats might be ready to go on sometime in early 2025, in anticipation of an All aboard! shout in downtown Mobile. Or is that Yall aboard? Whatever the case, the final bureaucratic hurdle was cleared Tuesday after the Mobile City Council, with surprising unanimous approvals, authorized three crucial agreements needed to bring Amtrak service between New Orleans and Mobile. The service, when it begins, will offer twice daily trips between the two cities with four coastal Mississippi stops - Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulfport and Bay St. Louis. The councils vote was the final governmental requirement needed for Amtraks return to the Mobile. Once restarted, the train will be the first to bring passengers to Mobile since the Sunset Limited ceased operating from New Orleans to Jacksonville after August 2005. All aboard, we got it done, Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson said after the councils votes, which were met by an applause inside Government Plaza. Its a win, win, win situation. Next steps The next stop for the long and winding Gulf Coast train saga will include the release of a $178.4 million federal Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant, construction of a new Amtrak platform in downtown Mobile, the construction by CSX of a 3,000-foot layover track to accommodate the twice-day passenger trains, and the finalization of marketing and branding for new service. But plenty of unknowns still exist such as the official return of the Amtrak trains, and how much a round-trip fare will cost. Amtrak officials hope by spring of next year the first train connecting the two cities with four coastal Mississippi stops will be rolling. A lot of this stuff, weve been waiting on (Mobile to authorize its agreements), said Knox Ross, chairman of the Southern Rail Commission, a train advocacy organization formed by Congress in 1982 and representing the states of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. Ross said by Halloween, he hopes to see a groundbreaking for the project and an official announcement on the branding of the new train. Thats our aspirational goal, he said. Related content: Why a Mardi Gras theme Amtrak train has momentum in the Gulf Coast Agreement approvals Mobile City Councilman Joel Daves, a longtime critic of providing local government funding to support Amtrak services, votes in support of three agreements needed to bring the passenger rail operations back to Mobile during the council's meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, at Government Plaza, in Mobile, Ala. Daves said the support from the Port of Mobile and the federal investment that is going into the rail infrastructure to support the Port were among the main reasons for his support.John Sharp For now, there is relief and celebration for passenger rail advocates over the councils approval of three agreements: A funding agreement that dedicates $3.048 million over three years to support the operations of the Gulf Coast route. A lease agreement that allows Amtrak to construction a train depot on city-owned land across Water Street from the Exploreum and adjacent to the Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center. An intergovernmental agreement with the Alabama State Port Authority that provides $1 million from the Ports budget to help offset Mobiles city commitment. Stimpson said that he anticipates the citys overall commitment reduced down to around $1 million over three years as long as Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey and the State Legislature includes a $1 million, three-year commitment in its budget. We have to take the administration at its word, Stimpson said, referring to Iveys office which has vocally expressed interest in a financial commitment toward the project. There is not a line item to draw from right now (within the states budget). But Im confident it will be included. The councils support of the agreements is a radical reversal from what the group was at in late May, when it appeared a majority of them had deep reservations about providing funding support. On Tuesday, at least two of those council members Joel Daves and Ben Reynolds said there were multiple factors that played into their backing of the project, including $72 million of the CRISI grant going toward rail infrastructure improvements in Alabama, most of which will at least indirectly benefit the Port of Mobile. The $72 million rail improvements will ensure the Port of Mobile is supported by first-class transportation infrastructure, Daves said. The Port is critical to Mobile and the transportation infrastructure which comes along with the commitment to Amtrak, is critical to the Port. Maggie Oliver, a spokesperson with the Alabama State Port Authority, said approximately $4 million of the CRISI grant includes the construction of approximately 5,500 feet of new and improved existing tracks that will directly benefit their operations. The inclusion of that project was one of the reasons why the Port Authority along the freight operators along the Gulf Coast line CSX and Norfolk Southern approved a settlement with Amtrak in a high-profile case before the U.S. Surface Transportation Board back in November 2022. Daves also said he supported the agreements after the lease was amended by the council to restrict the addition of future train routes during the three-year agreement. Under those new terms, if Amtrak pursues any east- or northbound routes from Mobile during the three-year agreement, the city can terminate it. Ray Lang, vice-president of state-supported services with Amtrak, said he cannot recall another lease arrangement with a city that include restrictions to future growth. Daves and past and present port officials have said they have concerned about passenger trains interfering freight operations within the Port of Mobiles railyard north of the Convention Center. Lang, though, said hes unconcerned about the provision. Lets look at it this way, he said. Were getting to the gate. Were starting two daily round trips to New Orleans and connecting (Mobile) to the rest of the national system (at Union Passenger Terminal near the Caesars Superdome). Beyond three years The funding agreement approved by the council also includes language that commits Amtrak to seek additional support after the initial three-years is concluded sometime in 2027. Lang said he believes the State of Alabama much like the states of Mississippi and Louisiana will be willing to provide fiscal support for the ongoing operations of the rail line. We have an excellent relationship with the Southern Rail Commission and they are professionalizing that organization and, in a few years, that entity will be the entity to represent the states and we will work with them on that future funding agreement, Lang said. Ross said the City of Mobile was approached this year for a funding commitment to support the route because this was the only way to do it. He said the SRC has approached Ivey and former Gov. Robert Bentleys administration for past support, to no avail. Weve asked everybody, he said. Only the City of Mobile said hey would do this. But the last time the Mobile City Council voted to support the operations of the rail route was in early February 2020 4 years, six months ago. That vote was approved by the council with a 6-1 decision Daves serving as the only No vote. This time around, the SRC and Amtrak were met with more skepticism about having the citys taxpayers provide the lion share of funding the state-supported route when there are few instances in the U.S. of municipal governments having to do so. I understand their reluctance, Ross said. They ask, Why are we having to do this? and that is a legitimate question. We are grateful they are deciding to do this. A recent poll shows a massive swing in the 2024 race for the White House. The poll, conducted by the University of Massachusetts Amherst from July 29-Aug. 1, showed 43% of those asked said they would back presumptive Democratic nominee Kamala Harris compared to 40% who were supporting former President Donald Trump. The numbers reflect a 7 point pro-Harris swing from a January 2024 poll when Trump led then challenger President Joe Biden 39% to 36%. READ MORE: Harris vs. Trump: Latest polling numbers show major change in race Harriss entry has really shaken up the presidential race, Jesse Rhodes, professor of political science at UMass Amherst and co-director of the poll said in a statement. Where Donald Trump was once heavily favored over Joe Biden, we now see Harris with a narrow lead. This appears to be driven by big shifts among young voters, African Americans and Latinx Americans toward Harris. Moderates also appear to have shifted dramatically to Harris. The 2024 presidential election is still extremely close, but its an entirely different race than it was a month ago, Rhodes added. Of those who are backing Trump, 75% said they were doing so because of his first-term accomplishments followed by 48% who said he will save America. Twenty-seven percent, each, said he was the best president America has ever had or are casting their vote because he is the Republican nominee. Those who arent voting for Trump said he was a threat to America (66%) followed by 41% who said he was responsible for the Jan. 6 insurrection. Sixty-six percent of Harris supporters said they are voting for the vice president because she represents a new generation. Thirty-seven percent said she will strengthen Americas global standing. Twenty-seven percent said they are backing Harris because she is the Democratic pick for the White House. The majority of people who said they werent voting for Harris 77% - said it was because they thought she would consider the policies of the Biden administration; 49% said she would weaken Americas global standing. When asked to compare who would handle issues the best, Trump received his highest scores for the economy, taxes, crime and immigration (all 53%) as well as the Israel-Hamas War (54%) and Ukraine-Russia War (52%). Harris received her highest marks for reproductive rights (61%), handling climate change (60%), healthcare (58%) and education (56%). The poll included a nationwide sample of 1,000. It has a margin of error of 3.8%. A man died at a Birmingham hospital Tuesday shortly after he was taken there by police who found him running in and out of early morning traffic in Irondale. Irondale police officers were dispatched at 5:10 a.m. on several 911 calls reporting the mans behavior on Highway 78 near Old Leeds Road. Lt. Jason Hill said the officers found the man who appeared to be under the influence of an unknown substance and/or behaving erratically. Police believed medical assistance was needed and called for assistance from the Irondale Fire Department. Officers rendered first aid on the scene until paramedics arrived. The man was then taken to St. Vincents East where he was pronounced dead a short time later. The mans identity has not yet been released. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is leading the investigation, which is standard policy for in-custody deaths. Sheffield police say a man they believe was responsible for shooting and killing a 16-year-old girl last month has turned himself into authorities. On Monday, Police Chief Ricky Terry said an arrest warrant has been issued for Larmarion Nizer Bethany, 18, also known as Ghost, for the murder of DeMylah Delyric Nixon-Johnson. Bethany turned himself in at about 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Terry said. Nixon-Johnson was shot and killed July 24 at about 1 a.m. at 1006 S. Nashville Ave. Investigators believe the girl was not the intended target of the shooter. Police said officers arrived at the scene to find the victim lying in the grass, shot in the back between the shoulder blades. She had apparently been shot once. Her aunt, Annie Johnson, has created a GoFundMe page to raise money for her funeral expenses. Gov. Tim Walz had been in office for just over a year when the COVID-19 pandemic took hold in Minnesota and civil unrest engulfed the Twin Cities after the police killing of George Floyd. Minnesota Republicans frequently criticized Walzs handling of both crises during his 2022 reelection campaign, but the 60-year-old governors decisions will get deeper scrutiny now that he is on the national ticket. Those events, along with concerns about fraud in his administration, are likely targets for former President Donald Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio. I have a record in Minnesota thats extensive, and I think people will take a look at that and they will make a decision on what they think is best for them, Walz told reporters recently. U.S. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, a Republican who represents a suburban Twin Cities district, called Walz an empty suit and launched a line of partisan criticism on social media that will no doubt be repeated in coming weeks. He embodies the same disastrous economic, open-borders, and soft-on-crime policies Harris has inflicted on our country the last four years, Emmers post read. Another issue with Walz is his speaking style. While knowledgeable and willing to defer when hes not prepared to answer, he knows how to speak in terms average voters can relate to, such as referring to the Trump ticket as weird. In debates, interviews and news conferences, he appears comfortable speaking extemporaneously and from the heart without notes. But he can also provide meandering responses that change direction and amount to word salad. Trumps official campaign account on X posted criticism of Walz as soon as Vice President Kamala Harris announced him as her running mate. The Trump camp roasted Walz for signing a 2023 bill allowing unauthorized immigrants to obtain drivers licenses, and highlighted his handling of the protests after Floyds murder. Rioters burned Minneapolis to the ground for days. Tim Walz was nowhere to be found, the campaigns post read. Expect to hear much more of that criticism in the coming months. The Trump campaign and other Republicans were already criticizing Harris for urging donations to a Minnesota-based bail fund for those arrested in the Floyd protests. Walz will now be under more intense scrutiny for his handling of the riots, which came in the early months of the pandemic. They make an interesting tag team, because of course, Tim Walz allowed rioters to burn down Minneapolis in the summer of 2020. And then the few who got caught, Kamala Harris helped bail them out of jail, Vance told Fox News on Tuesday. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis echoed that sentiment in a post on X Tuesday: Minnesota was ground zero for the BLM riots of 2020. Harris egged it on and Walz sat by and let Minneapolis burn. The Twin Cities saw extensive unrest, looting, vandalism and arson after Floyds murder. Law enforcement struggled to contain the sprawling protests, prompting some neighborhoods to set up loose patrols of their own streets. Minneapolis police were ordered to evacuate their Third Precinct building in the heart of the riots and saw it torched by protesters. The Minnesota National Guard had been ready for deployment to assist police in riot control, but the Guard didnt arrive at the precinct until hours after it had burned. A National Guard Bureau spokesman said Walz was in charge of the deployment timeline. Relations between Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey remain frosty on the topic. After the precinct burned, Walz criticized Freys response as an abject failure. A spokesman for Walz said Frey didnt provide enough information to define a mission for the Guard. Months later, Frey blamed Walz, saying the governor didnt take his requests for assistance seriously until it was too late. After-action assessments determined there had been a communication breakdown. Walz was recently asked about the response. When youre serving in the moment on these things, I think on anything, you go back and look, Walz said. Decisions were made in a situation that is what it is, and I said we believed we tried to do the best that we can in each of those. Along with his response to those events, expect to hear plenty about Walzs support and signature on a raft of progressive policies passed by the Legislature in 2023. In one session, the Legislature enshrined abortion rights into the state constitution, provided free meals for all K-12 students regardless of income, and made Minnesota a sanctuary for those seeking gender-affirming care. The governor and the Legislature also reinstated voting rights for felons upon release from incarceration. The governor will talk about his lifelong affinity for hunting, dating back to his days with his late father. Hes signed gun-safety measures the past two legislative sessions, including a red flag bill and a ban on binary triggers. Staff writer Briana Bierschbach contributed to this report. _______ 2024 StarTribune. Visit at startribune.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Vice President Kamala Harris running mate pick, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, in February spoke out against the Alabama Supreme Courts controversial IVF ruling, citing the fertility treatments that helped him and his wife, Gwen, have children. Gwen and I have two beautiful children because of reproductive health care like IVF. This issue is deeply personal to our family and so many others, Gov. Walz posted on Facebook in February. Dont let these guys get away with this by telling you they support IVF when their handpicked judges oppose it. Actions speak louder than words, and their actions are clear. Theyre bringing anti-science government into your exam room, bedroom, and classroom. The Alabama Supreme Court ruled that under state law embryos are human beings from the moment of fertilization, whether in the womb or generated in the laboratory via IVF. Couples had sued an IVF clinic and a Mobile hospital after their embryos were destroyed. Mobile County Circuit Court Judge Jill Parrish Phillips threw out the case in 2022, claiming that embryos are not children, but her decision was overruled by the state supreme court in February. Gov. Tim Walz told the Minneapolis Star Tribune extra clarity was needed in Minnesotas laws after the Alabama ruling. For folks who said theres redundancy in them, OK, but I want to build redundancy in them, Walz said. Im going to build up the battlements around protection as much as I can. Walz told the newspaper he and Gwen had tried to start a family by going through fertility treatments at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester for seven years. Repeated treatments hadnt worked, Walz said. Then one day, he said, Gwen called him crying, the Star Tribune reported in March. I said, not again, Walz asked his wife when he picked up the phone. She said, No, Im pregnant. Its not by chance that we named our daughter Hope. In January 2001, the couple welcomed daughter Hope. Their son, Gus, was born in October 2006, People reported. In July, the Harris campaign wished a happy IVF Day to everyone except for Trumps now-running mate, Sen. JD Vance. In response, Gov. Walz shared their story. Even if youve never gone through the hell of infertility, someone you know has. When Gwen and I were having trouble getting pregnant, the anxiety and frustration blotted out the sun. JD Vance opposing the miracle of IVF is a direct attack on my family and so many others, Walz tweeted. As he took the stage with Harris in Pennsylvania Tuesday night, Walz again shared his familys story, CBS News reported. When my wife and I decided to have children we spent years going through infertility treatments. And I remember praying every night for a call for good news. The pit in my stomach when the phone rang, and the agony when we heard that the treatments hadnt worked. So this wasnt by chance that when we welcomed my daughter into the world, we named her Hope. Governor Walz and Mrs. Walz struggled with years of fertility challenges and had their daughter, Hope, through reproductive health care like IVF further cementing his commitment to ensuring all Americans have access to this care, the Harris campaign said in a statement, according to the CBS News report. Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen declined to join a letter to Elon Musk from the top election officials of five other states urging the tech billionaire to point users of his social media site X to accurate election information after Xs AI chatbot gave false information, according to his Minnesota counterpart. After President Biden announced on July 21 that he was withdrawing from the 2024 race, the AI chatbot Grok posted that the Democrat replacing Biden as the partys nominee would not be able to get on the ballot in nine states, including Alabama, five secretaries of state wrote in a letter Monday to Musk and led by Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon. The ballot deadline has passed for several states for the 2024 election, the Grok post stated, according to the letter. Some of these states include: 1. Alabama 2. Indiana 3. Michigan 4. Minnesota 5. New Mexico 6. Ohio 7. Pennsylvania 8. Texas 9. Washington. Alabamas ballot access deadline did not pass. On July 21 -- the day Biden dropped his re-election bid -- Allen told AL.com that Aug. 23 is the deadline to certify the nominees for president and vice president. The letter sent to Musk on Monday said the Grok post also gave false information for the eight other states. In all nine states the opposite is true: The ballots are not closed, and upcoming ballot deadlines would allow for changes to candidates listed on the ballot for the offices of President and Vice President of the United States, the letter stated. Simon and the four other attorneys generals who signed the letter are Democrats. Allen is a Republican. His office was contacted before the letter was sent to Musk but they declined to be included, according to a Simon spokeswoman. Efforts by AL.com to reach Allens office were unsuccessful. The letter called on Musk to have Grok posts direct users who ask about the 2024 election to CanIVote.org in wake of the misinformation. The nonpartisan website run by the National Association of Secretaries of State was created by state election officials to help eligible voters figure out how and where to go vote, the site states. While Grok is only available to users of X Premium and X Premium+ -- paid tiers of the social media site -- the post has been captured and shared repeatedly in multiple posts - reaching millions of people, according to the letter. Meanwhile, the AI chatbot continued to repeat this false information for more than a week until it was corrected last Wednesday, the secretaries wrote. They highlighted a two-year-old X post from Musk in which the tech billionaire wrote the social media site needs to become by far the most accurate source of information about the world. Thats our mission. We hope that you live up to this mission, the letter states. Finally, Congress has taken an interest in the work done by investigative journalist David Daleiden and his colleague Sandra Merritt nearly a decade ago. A week ago, for instance, Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene released the full versions of subpoenaed undercover videos that were featured at the March hearing, "Investigating the Black Market of Baby Organ Harvesting. As shocking as the videos are and as evil as the practice is, the more immediate problem is the possible election of presidential candidate Kamala Harris. While attorney general of the trend-setting California, Harris helped usher in the age of proto-fascism even before it was cool. In an eye-opening email to mentor James OKeefe, Daleiden described the brutal role Harris played in protecting her benefactor, Planned Parenthood, from his and Merritts investigation. On a pleasant April 2016 day in Huntington Beach, California, Daleiden was taking out the trash when his life as he knew it came to an abrupt end: As I rounded the corner, the door of a large, white, windowless van swung open, and a tall, uniformed officer stepped out and blocked my path. Are you David Daleiden? he asked. Yes," I said nervously as I stared to freeze from confusion and surprise. "We have a search warrant for your apartment from the California Department of Justice," he said as he shoved papers at me. No less than 11 armed CA DOJ agents, accompanied by K-9 dogs, filed out of the van and sprung out of surrounding police cars. Authorizing the raid was Attorney General Kamala Harris, then in the race for the U.S. Senate. Daleiden, 27 at the time of the raid, had embarrassed Planned Parenthood with a series of undercover videos exposing Planned Parenthoods role in the fetal tissue business. Daleiden continued: Only half of them fit in my apartment to search it, the rest waited outside with their dogs and assault rifles. The leader of the agents tried to prevent me from calling my lawyer and threatened to seize my phone while I was talking to legal counsel. They overturned my entire apartment, looking behind statues and icons of the Virgin Mary for "evidence." They thumbed through invoice printouts for fetal body parts from StemExpress, Advanced Bioscience Resources, and the admitted criminal DaVinci companies but left those behind, instead seizing all my hard drives and equipment with the original undercover footage and my laptops going back to high school. I felt powerless, like I was drowning, and it felt like the search lasted forever. In the years to follow hundreds of January 6 defendants and pro-life activists would experience the Gestapo-like tactics Harris employed against her political opponents in California. If elected president, there will be no reason for Harris not to normalize these tactics on a federal level. In the way of background, Daleiden had launched what would prove to be the most sustained and effective undercover journalism project since the Chicago Sun-Timess famed political sting of 1977. That year, the Sun-Times purchased a rundown bar, renamed it The Mirage, staffed it with its reporters, and captured on camera the shakedowns, payoffs, and sundry criminal mischief of Chicagos political underclass. Hard as it is to believe, in the not-too-distant past the media actually exposed political corruption and voter fraud. Daleidens Mirage was a sham biomedical research company called Biomax Procurement Services. Over time, he had become aware that Planned Parenthood was engaged in the trafficking of fetal tissue, a double-edged euphemism for baby parts. Working through a journalistic entity of his own creation, the Center for Medical Progress (CMP), Daleiden and Merritt learned the language and the mechanics of the fetal tissue procurement business and went to work. Over a period lasting more than two years, the highly disciplined twosome worked their way into the good graces of Planned Parenthood clinicians in several states and captured on camera the chilling words and deeds of the practitioners in the nations least regulated major industry. In July 2015, Daleiden started dropping the videos. The combination of callow words and cruel images, repeated in one video after another, rocked Washington. A doctor at a mega Planned Parenthood clinic in Colorado, for example, was seen in one video explaining the clinics traffic in the body parts of aborted babies. Aware that it was illegal to transfer human fetal tissue for valuable consideration, the doctor played semantic games with the would-be purchasers. We dont want to get called on, you know, selling fetal parts across states, she joked, unaware that she was being recorded. This interview was followed by an on-site review of actual body parts with the doctor and a clinician. What was impressive is how well Daleiden and Merritt play their roles as buyers. What was unnerving is how casually the doctor and clinician picked through trays of baby parts -- a heart, a brain, a lung -- while talking about the commercial viability of the fetal cadaver. So horrifying were the videos they even shocked Hillary Clinton, then gearing up her presidential run, Although her first instinct was to attack the video producers, Clinton herself began to waver as each new video dropped. I have seen pictures from [the videos] and obviously find them disturbing, Clinton told the New Hampshire Union Leader late that July. For immediate assistance, Planned Parenthood turned to the well-connected fixers at -- where else? -- Fusion GPS. The beleaguered organization contracted with Fusion to review the unedited footage Daleiden had posted online. The media welcomed Fusions forensic study as heartily as they would its equally fraudulent Steele dossier a year later. To complete the rout, prosecutorial friends of Planned Parenthood, both in Texas and California, brought utterly bogus criminal charges against Daleiden and Merritt. In California, Harriss successor, Xavier Becerra, charged the pair with 15 felony counts -- one for each of the 14 people recorded, and a 15th for conspiracy. The Los Angeles Times editorial board, although a champion of Planned Parenthood, was appalled. In March 2017, the board weighed in: Its disturbingly aggressive for Becerra to apply this criminal statute to people who were trying to influence a contested issue of public policy, regardless of how sound or popular that policy may be. Daleiden has spent the last nine years in a very expensive legal limbo. He is still awaiting trial on the aforementioned felony charges in a San Francisco court that offers no more promise of non-partisanship than the D.C. Court that railroaded the J6ers. Meanwhile, on the campaign trail, Harris brags about how tough she was on crime as a California prosecutor and attorney general. As might be expected, she doesnt reveal that the crime she was toughest on was investigative journalism. Jack Cashills new book, Ashli: The Untold Story of the Women of January 6, is now available in all formats. Image: Fibonacci Blue via Wikipedia Ronald Reagan told fellow Republicans to paint in bright colors. But if you listen to most people with R after their name, youd have a hard time separating them from academics. Most of the arguments are lifeless, and they wont win over black voters. They wont win over squishy Democrat voters. They have forgotten that their problem isnt winning debates, because unless one side fails as dramatically as Biden did, nobody will notice. Most debates are performance art, full of sound and fury but signifying nothing. Sonnie Johnson makes this point again and again on her weekly XM radio show. It may take a little while for those of us who didnt grow up on hip-hop in the hood to get our heads tuned in, but shes got a lot to say. But if we arent willing to go into the hood, nobody in the hood will hear us. By the way, when we go into the hood, we cant try to imitate the hood. We have to be authentically ourselves, like Donald Trump when he rose back up with Fight, Fight, Fight! Once we set foot into the battle of hearts, we must hear what the breaking hearts in the hood are crying about. Only then can we start to make connections. Notice that I didnt say we would win hearts. Those breaking hearts are already with us. They just dont know it. Think about what Donald Trump asked. What do you have to lose? Image: YouTube screen grab (cropped). Much of the ghetto black community is already at rock bottom. The only way is up. The Democrats promise but never deliver. So Trump met them where they were and made a connection. But dont ever think that youre talking with a black community. Let them know you regard them as Americans. Incidentally, this applies to every poor community. Im just making the sentences easier. You dont want me to talk about the black/Hispanic/Oriental/Native American/XYZ community. Too complicated. So, what do Americans want first? I dont know Let me think If it took you that long, go back to your basement and exercise your thumbs. The first thing every American wants is safe streets. Without that, you cant get groceries. You cant go to work. Your kids cant go to school. No mother wants her kids shot by the neighborhood gangbangers, snatched off the sidewalk by pedophiles, or tricked into addiction by the curbside pharmacist. We have to find ways to make the streets safe. Gangbangers are the same as everybody else in one sense. If the risk is too much, they just wont do it. If they know that the cops will take them downtown for assaulting an officer, they wont assault an officer. If they know that the judges wont let them out on bail for the umpteenth time, theyll think twice about doing the crime. And if Grandma is holding a gun, the bad boy from around the corner will be very polite around her home. No protection racket there. But Democrats dont want Grandma to be able to protect her family. They want to be compassionate. But theres nothing compassionate about letting their constituents get killed. So how do most Rs get the message through? First, what horrible thing happened in your neighborhood? Make it the message. Use a very quick verbal hit that cant be turned off. It goes something like this (For Atlanta) Laken Riley was a beautiful college girl brutally murdered by a criminal illegal alien brought to you by border czar Kamala Harris and the Democrat party. (For Chicago) Fifty-five people were shot in the city last weekend in a crime wave brought to you by the Democrat party. And on and on. Every locale has its own horrible event that was made possible by the Democrat Party. On the illegal alien stuff, use illegal alien because thats what they are. The law calls them illegal aliens. Any other term uses pale pastels, and you need to paint in bright colors. You dont need to sugarcoat anything. Stand up, be brave, and tell the truth. Trump made it clear that the Dems havent done anything for minority communities. And those communities heard him. They didnt vote for him in droves because they didnt know whether he was just another politician or not. But they did see that he was authentic. They saw it again on J13 when he leaped to his feet with a raised fist and blood on his face. Theyll trust him more this time. Any Republican who sounds like a politician is worthless. Even my own Senator, Marco Rubio, doesnt sound authentic because he uses politician speak. His Cuban roots may lead him to hate socialism, but wheres the passion? Where is the emphatic voice and total body commitment to his message? Most on the left have very short attention spans. Imagine that you made a series of short TV and radio ads with those one-line messages. They wouldnt be able to get to the remote fast enough to mute it. Some messages might have a slightly more tailored variation. The devastation in downtown (city) was brought to you by a century of Democrat rule. Or (for California), You cant eat at Rubios Coastal Grill anymore because of policies brought to you by the Democrat party. I think Ive pounded the table enough. Democrat policies are destroying America, starting with the most vulnerable. But weve spent the bulk of our time dealing with nuances of the right to vote, color blind policies, and so on. None of that is unimportant, but when you cant safely do the essential parts of life, why do you care? Republicans must be loud, proud, and authentic. Its OK to have American flags on your car windows, but Democrats have painted that as white racism. You must find a way to be one-on-one authentic and help your fellow Americans. That sort of campaign has a chance. Ted Noel MD is a retired physician who podcasts and posts on social media as DoctorTed and @vidzette. His Doctor Teds Prescription podcast is available on most podcast outlets. He is a great-grandfather, pilot, golfer, shooter, and Papa fix who is conversant in many scientific, legal, and political disciplines. His greatest skill is critical thinking. Years ago on a winter vacation in Hawaii I took a break from fun in the sun to visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial; from a brief blurb on the exhibits webpage, we find this: From Engagement to Peace At the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, learn about one of the most pivotal moments in US history: the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the subsequent entry of the United States into World War II. The memorial commemorates the unprovoked deadly attack on a U.S. base by Japans imperial forces on December 7, 1941, a date which will live in infamy, proclaimed then-president Franklin D. Roosevelt (D). Hawaii has since become a favored vacation spot of Japanese citizens who diligently tour most of the islands famous sights with their Japanese tour guides, but they were notably absent from the Pearl Harbor memorial; very few ever of them visit, my tour guide explained. In contrast, many Americans visit Hiroshima, where 79 years ago today on August 6, 1945, after all other desperate efforts by winning Americans to end the deadly war that followed Pearl Harbor against the losing Japanese, who were suicidally determined to continue the deadly war, then-president Harry S. Truman, after much soul searching and some opposition, authorized dropping the atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Hiroshima in an effort to spare more American and Japanese lives. From Trumans own words: We are now prepared to obliterate more rapidly and completely every productive enterprise the Japanese have above ground in any city. We shall destroy their docks, their factories, and their communications. Let there be no mistake; we shall completely destroy Japan's power to make war. It was to spare the Japanese people from utter destruction that the ultimatum of July 26 was issued at Potsdam. Their leaders promptly rejected that ultimatum. If they do not now accept our terms they may expect a rain of ruin from the air, the like of which has never been seen on this earth. Behind this air attack will follow sea and land forces in such numbers and power as they have not yet seen and with the fighting skill of which they are already well aware. When the stubborn Japanese still wouldnt surrender, Truman authorized a second bomb on Nagasaki. The Japanese finally surrendered, sparing not only the lives of American armed forces personnel but also the further destruction of Japan. After Japans capitulation, the U.S. occupied Japan and reformed its government, turning it into the prosperous, very peaceful country it is today. However, (some) Americans, forgetting their U.S. history, visit Hiroshima and its peace memorial, to apologize to some unrepentant Japanese. An example of this mixed message is the statement. delivered by former Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel and now U.S. Ambassador to Japan on the 79th anniversary of Hiroshima, just a few days back: For nearly 80 years, the city of Hiroshima has been an enduring symbol of peace and possibility, and its people a powerful symbol of healing and hope. Emerging from the ashes of tragedy and suffering, the city is a shining beacon of resilience and unity for the entire world, said Ambassador Emanuel. It is both my honor to attend the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony and my duty to ensure that we never forget the lessons the city and its citizens teach us. With each visit I make to Hiroshima, I feel evermore determined to continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship and alliance between the United States and Japan. Far from forgetting the past, we can use it to motivate and inspire us in our shared pursuit of peace and prosperity in the region and across the world. Hopefully the Japanese will now visit the Pearl Harbor Memorial. Hopefully. Hopefully Americans will learn the lessons of peace through strength. Hopefully. May the memories of World War II veterans remain eternal. Image: Free image, Pixabay license. Kamala Harris made an interesting choice for her running mate: She bypassed Josh Shapiro, the successful, faux-moderate, white governor of Pennsylvania (19 Electoral College votes); Gretchen Whitmer, the popular, white, female barely moderate governor of Michigan (15 EC votes), and Mark Kelly, the well-liked, faux-moderate, white Senator from Arizona, (11 EC votes). Instead, Kamala opted for the incredibly radical Tim Walz, who can only bring her 10 EC votes. Strategically, it was a bizarre selection, but it also represents the first honest thing Kamala has done in this campaign. Since Biden announced he was out and Kamala became first the unofficial and then the official Democrat party candidate (without ever having won a primary), shes been running from her record. While she wisely stays out of the spotlight except when scripted, her surrogates have been trying to erase her truly radical history. Image: Tim Walz (edited). YouTube screen grab. No, they say, she had no responsibility for the fiasco at the border, even though Biden proudly announced that hed assigned to her responsibility for fixing the border and Lester Holt, a Democrat sycophant, dared to ask her about her failures there. No, she wasnt the most radical Senator in America, to the left of Bernie Sanders; she was a moderateand to prove that, a non-partisan site that ranks politicians votes memory-holed her page. No, she wasnt a radical leftist who raised money for BLM and called to defund the police; she was a tough-as-nails prosecutor, never mind that she gave meaningless sentences to low-level marijuana offenders to boost her stats and couldnt bear to seek the death penalty for a man who slaughtered a father and his two sons. On and on, with one issue after another, the Democrat party and the media are pushing the narrative that Kamala is a moderate. Shes moderate, dammit! Conservatives were worried that, in keeping with this newly moderate image, Kamala would make a sensible pick for her running mateperhaps, as noted above, Shapiro, Whitmer, or Kelly. (Theres speculation that Shapiro, who allegedly dropped out, really got pushed out because the antisemitic cohort that powers the Democrat party would not tolerate a Jew in the second seat. Well never know the truth of that one.) But Kamala made a different choice. She tagged Minnesotas Tim Walz, a man about whom Americans know almost nothing. When they do know about him, though, they may not like him at all. Charlie Kirk has a good summary of all of his far-leftist political positions: Welcome to the race, Tim Walz! Lets make sure America knows who you are. You helped ignite the George Floyd riots, the worst the country had seen in decades. While Minneapolis burned, you stalled on deploying the National Guard for an entire day, blaming the city for not Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) August 6, 2024 Kirk also points out that Walzs wife is deeply weird. Shes so radical that she loves the smell of toxic air pollution in the morning if it points the way to a race-based societal breakdown: Tim Walzs wife and Minnesota First Lady Gwen Walz with a very weird statement on the 2020 riots: I could smell the burning tiresI kept the windows open as long as I could because I felt like that was such a touchstone of what was happening." pic.twitter.com/liBFFm0qi4 Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) August 6, 2024 You can only imagine their pillow talk. But wait! Theres more. We can anticipate that because Walz was in the National Guard, Democrats will use that information to try to offset JD Vances service in the Marines. However, Walz is already being swift-boated: Veterans have accused Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz of embellishing his military career and abandoning his National Guard battalion, highlighting that the now-vice presidential pick for the Democrats never served in combat and retired from service ahead of his units 2005 deployment to Iraq. In a letter posted to Facebook in 2018 as he first ran for governor, retired Command Sergeants Major Thomas Behrends and Paul Herr said Walz retired from his 24-year tenure in the National Guard after learning that his battalion would be deployed to Iraq, despite allegedly assuring his fellow troops he would join them. On May 16th, 2005, [Walz] quit, betraying his country, leaving the 1-125th Field Artillery Battalion and its Soldiers hanging; without its senior Non-Commissioned Officer, as the battalion prepared for war, Behrends and Herr wrote. [snip] Walz further dodged the necessary paperwork to ensure a smooth transition out of military service and instead slithered out the door, the pair added, with his retirement filing showing soldier not available for signature. The National Guard members also accused the now-two-term Minnesota governor of having embellished and selectively omitted facts of his military career for years. That wont impress middle America. But wait! Theres still more when it comes to Walzs, um, issues: Kamala Harris freshly minted veep pick, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, was once arrested for drunk driving after he was pulled over for driving more than 40 mph above the speed limit. Walz, 60, who was 31 at the time and working as a teacher in Alliance, Neb., was caught on police radar driving his silver Mazda 96 mph in a 55 zone just before midnight Sept. 23, 1995. [snip] After flunking a field sobriety test, he submitted to a breath test, which pegged his blood-alcohol level at 0.128%, well above the states legal limit of 0.08%. Walz accepted a plea bargain on a reckless driving charge and claimed that he thought the trooper was chasing him because the light bar wasnt on. In 2006, his campaign claimed he was too deaf to hear the troopers siren due to injuries sustained in the National Guard. Those are stupid defenses when your blood alcohol is way over the limit. What Walz should have done when confronted in 2006 was admit that he made a terrible, stupid, youthful error and put out a dont drive drunk ad. That hes still in denial mode is telling. In a way, Walz is Kamalas insurance policy, just as Biden was Obamas and Kamala was Bidens. The Democrats will try to market him as a normal, former military white guy from the upper Midwest. The truth, though, is that while Kamala is running from her record by campaigning as the fun, centrist voice of the Democrat party, Walz is the living embodiment of her real values. In Freudian terms, Walz is the Id (the primitive, real mind) to Kamalas Ego (what we present to the world). Even as she tries to fake her way to the White House, Kamala cant resist showing her true self through her choice of running mate. Moving forward, forget about Kamalas race and dont go to the fact that Walz carries some extra weight around the middle, something common to many Americans his age, including Trump. If you want to defeat the most radically leftist presidential ticket in American history, be smart. In addition to voting (and taking ten friends to the polls with you), keep in mind the old legal saw: If you have the facts, argue the facts; if you have the law, argue the law; and if you have neither facts nor law, pound the table. Leftists are pounding the table hard against Trump and Vance and already lying about Walz, but we have something wonderful: We have the facts. Its up to all of us to spread them far and wide. According to the data, five percent of the global Syrian population now live in Germany alone, accounting for a 16-fold increase in just a decade, which works out to be a staggering 1,520% jump in the numbers; heres the story from a new report by the editorial staff at Remix News: Ever since the 2015/16 migrant crisis, Syrians have arrived in Germany in ever-increasing numbers, and now number at least 972,000 at the end of 2023, according to Statista. There are 22 million Syrians living in Syria itself, meaning those in Germany represent nearly 1 for every 20 in their native country. This is extremely rapid growth since 2013 when there were only 60,000 Syrians in Germany. Since then, the population has grown 16-fold. And, to make matters even worse, these migrants are proving to be a tremendous drain on the German economygasp, who could have known! Also noted in the report: [D]espite promises that Syrians would integrate into the German economy, the numbers still tell a very different story, with 513,534 Syrians receiving the German welfare benefit known as citizens money (Burgergeld), according to the current data from the Federal Employment Agency. However, even those who are not receiving this payment receive money, housing, and other benefits from the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act. Okay, so roughly 53% of the Syrian newcomers are on the official dole, while another undisclosed number of Syrians are receiving social benefits via another avenue; per a German government website, taxpayer handouts from the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act will cover everything from food, accommodation, and household furnishings, to school supplies, medical insurance, baby supplies, and pregnancy costs. Oh, and even if your request for asylum is rejected and youre set to be deported, youre still eligible for benefits while you wait. Germanys welfare costs are exploding while the German citizens bear the bruntthe article reports that the state spent around 50 billion on migrants during 2023, which was a little over 11% of the total annual budget (445 billion). Germany's welfare costs are EXPLODING and foreigners are fueling the rise Welfare costs, known as "citizen's money," have reached a record high of 48.9 billion. 47.3% of welfare recipients are foreigners, a new record high, according to data from the German pic.twitter.com/mK6Vu2pV8g Remix News & Views (@RMXnews) July 9, 2024 But, its not just the Syriansits the other third world Muslims too: According to Statista, the number of Afghans has also grown tremendously, increasing to 419,410 in 2023, representing a sixfold increase from 2014. Nearly half of them, 197,551, receive social welfare payments, and the vast majority live on asylum seeker benefits. [snip] Afghans continue to arrive in Germany at a high rate, with 10,000 supposed to be flown in, according to an announcement from Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. Looks like the German government just cant quit the socialismI dont like where this is headed Image generated by AI. There's stupid, and there's Harris-Biden administration stupid, and now the U.S. is about to get it good and hard a second time from the deal the White House cut with Venezuela's dictator against all advice from diplomatic experts who understand that regime. According to Miami-based news outlet UHN Plus: | LO ULTIMO El dictador Nicolas Maduro dijo que si los Estados Unidos continuan con su locura de imponer un Guaido 2.0 en Venezuela, los campos de petroleo y gas firmados con ellos pasarian a manos de los BRICS.pic.twitter.com/GU7WhTTdgz UHN Plus (@UHN_Plus) August 6, 2024 Here's a Google translate: THE LATEST Dictator Nicolas Maduro said that if the United States continues with its madness of imposing a Guaido 2.0 in Venezuela, the oil and gas fields signed with them would pass into the hands of the BRICS. The U.S. has hemmed and hawed around the travesty of an election in Venezuela last July 28, having launched a deal last October with Maduro to drop sanctions on his miserable regime, and release some of its biggest drug dealers from U.S. prisons in exchange for ... free and fair elections. Dropping sanctions enabled U.S. oil developers to come into Venezuela to restore its rusty, broken-down oil industry, with major players such as Chevron signing deals with the state oil company, PDVSA, and investing $100 million for production. A former U.S. ambassador to Venezuela, Michael Skol, warned that oil deals with Maduro were a bad idea and called the Harris-Biden administration's perpetrators of the ill-thought-out idea "the three stooges." I wrote about that here. The Harris-Biden team didn't care. They went through with the deal. Obviously, the U.S. didn't get anything for its deal with Maduro on the free-and-fair election front. Maduro brazenly stole the election right in front of the Venezuelans' and the world's faces, and got his drug dealers and foreign investment in exchange, for keeps. The U.S. eventually had to admit that it was a fraud-fest, which it did the other day. Now Maduro is warning the U.S. not to recognize the true winner of the election, Edmundo Gonzalez, whom he calls "Guaido II" after an earlier (but less provable) fraud and subsequent U.S. effort to apply diplomatic pressure on Maduro to get out. So, he's warning the U.S. that he'll steal American investments and hand them over to the BRICS nations if the U.S. does that, forcing it to choose between permitted investments and helping the battered winners of that election. And by BRICS, Maduro probably means either China or Russia, both of which have been staunch allies in his claim to victory in the July 28 election. Maduro probably doesn't mean Brazil, which hasn't been entirely staunch as an ally in this debacle, and it's unlikely the other two members of this club of nations, South Africa and India, would be all that useful to Maduro in his quest for Castro-like power. But Russia or China? Oh, yeah. It might specifically be Russia given that a Russian state propaganda outlet has been reporting about Venezuelan oil and BRICS investment since at least May. According to a May 8 piece by a Russian outlet called BRICS TV: Venezuela may transfer to the BRICS countries the rights to develop oil and gas deposits on its territory. This was announced at a press conference by the President of the state Nicolas Maduro. According to his statements, BRICS is a giant and safe market for national producers with good prices. Well. So that means companies like Chevron, which have spent millions to clean up and hose out Venezuela's wretched oil infrastructure, may end up getting their property stolen and watching the Russians and Chinese take it over for production. That's why the deal never should have been O.K.'d in the first place, but now that the deal is done, the result is a sucker-punch to the U.S. and its companies. How the evil old dictator in Caracas must be snickering. He's got his drug dealers back, he's got nice new shiny infrastructure built by Americans to reward his fellow dictator friends with, and he's throwing Venezuela's opposition in jail even as he empties his prisons of criminals and points them to the U.S. border. That's quite a sucker-punch to the most gullible, feckless, White House in history. Joe Biden may be bowing out but Kamala Harris is not. She's got the same people in place and plans to surrender even more to bad deals, ones that Maduro and his more powerful sponsors abroad are sure to utilize to the fullest, now that they know a fool is sitting there on Pennsylvania Avenue, waiting to be gulled again. Image: Twitter screen shot Remember the Texas to New York buses? Well, Mayor Eric Adams went to the courts to stop the buses dropping off migrants. And he lost. This is the story: The New York State Supreme Court has ruled against Mayor Eric Adams' attempt to block migrant buses from arriving in New York City. The mayor had requested a preliminary injunction barring Texas-based bus companies from transporting asylum seekers to the city. The New York Civil Liberties Union argued the mayor's move was unconstitutional. The court agreed and rejected the mayor's request. Tuesday, the mayor's office said it respects the court's decision. Of course he is disappointed. The economics of a sanctuary city do not add up. It was great in theory and they were sitting in the bleachers calling the governor of Texas "anti-immigrant" for banning sanctuary cities in Texas. It's quite another story when the migrants show up and require food and shelter. So the buses will continue and New York City's challenges will grow. The moral of this story is that it's easy to be a sanctuary city in theory but not in practice. P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts and videos. Image: AT via Magic Studio Im mystified that Nancy is mystified. Zachary Basu at Axios reported today that Nancy Pelosi finds the characterization by Republicans and conservatives of Kamala Harriss newly-announced running mate, Minnesotas governor Tim Walz, as being on the left a mystifying phenomenon, because as Pelosi sees it, Walz is a heartland of America Democrat with a right down the middle moderate attitude. Heres the story, from Basu: House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) praised Vice President Kamala Harris selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, calling him a heartland of America Democrat. Why it matters: Pelosi, who remains one of the most important power-brokers in the Democratic Party, challenged Republican claims that Walz represents the left... Tim Walz I know very well. He served in the House. To characterize him as left is so unreal, Pelosi said on MSNBCs Morning Joe. Really, its mystifying to me to see someone that I worked with shall we say right down the middle characterized on the left in this regard. Is this the booze talking again, or just the shift of the Overton window? I mean, not even seven days ago did Walz show up on the White Dudes for Harris video call and instruct participants to proudly embrace their progressive values of socialism: "Don't ever shy away from our progressive values. One person's socialism is another person's neighborliness." - Gov. Tim Walz He wants to be Kamalas running mate so bad.pic.twitter.com/oSS0NGjOFy Dustin Grage (@GrageDustin) July 30, 2024 Whats even more bizarre is that I dont think theres any debate as to where socialism falls on the political spectrum, especially telling considering the extremely unintelligent modern (Democrat) voters with whom we often interact. While fascism is a leftwing ideology, the left stupidly asserts its far right, yet no one is arguing the same for socialismat least not that Ive heard. And, the miseries that have always accompanied socialist regimes arent exactly a mainstream vision and ambition, characteristic of a heartland Democrat as Pelosi suggests. Who wants to be yanked out of their bed in a pre-dawn raid like the Soviets of Aleksandr Solzhenitsyns day would do? Heres how Solzhenitsyn articulated it: The kind of night arrest described is, in fact, a favorite, because it has important advantages. Everyone living in the apartment is thrown into a state of terror by the first knock at the door. The arrested person is torn from the warmth of his bed. He is in a daze, half-asleep, helpless, and his judgment is befogged. In a night arrest the State Security men have a superiority in numbers; there are many of them, armed, against one person who hasnt even finished buttoning his trousers. Does any father really want to die alongside his sons at the ends of gun barrels because they resist the theft of their humble family farm? (This is a Che story.) Do the heartland farmers actually favor the collectivization policies of Joseph Stalin? Do most people think its normal and acceptable for a government employee to pick up spent casings after he unloaded his pistol into a citizens face, so the victims family could not look upon their loved one, then turn the brass into keepsake cufflinks? (This is a Herman Marks story.) Pretty sure political ideologies like these are indicative of a radical leftist, not a right down the middle kind of guy. Lets go through a few of the things that Tim Walz specifically has done, while hes held executive political power: He watched Minneapolis burn to the ground, and permitted rioters to loot businesses, destroy private property, and murder trapped civilians; Walzs wife even said she kept her windows open during the George Floyd riots to soak in the touchstone moment: What the hell Minnesota First Lady says she left the windows open during the 2020 BLM riots to smell the burning tires and soak in the moment Her daughter was also caught leaking National Guard plans to rioters so they could avoid arrest This family is sick pic.twitter.com/yBzx9vmzF4 DC_Draino (@DC_Draino) August 6, 2024 He established a snitch hotline where people could call and report their neighbors for violating the lockdowns: Holy communism Tim Walz established a snitch program during Covid where people report neighbors for violating his authoritarian stay-at-home orders This is straight out of Fidel Castros playbook for anyone that spoke out against his regime pic.twitter.com/Ybk1i18WxZ DC_Draino (@DC_Draino) August 6, 2024 He put tampons in male bathrooms because he thrives on sexualizing children and promoting dysfunctioneasily remembered as Tampon Tim for the mnemonic crowd hereand signed an executive order to promote the mutilation of trans children: Last year Tim Walz signed an executive order that made Minnesota a sanctuary state for child gender abuse. He invited families like this one who are transitioning their 6 year-olds. He's incredibly evil, which makes him a perfect fit for Kamala's VP. pic.twitter.com/xwkZ48P3kG Expose Them (@ExposeDarkDeeds) August 6, 2024 Heres his right-hand gal, for context: Tim Walzs Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan says "when our children tell us who they are, it is our job as grown-ups to listen and to believe them while advocating for trans surgeries & hormones for minors. Shes wearing a shirt which suggests physical violence against those who pic.twitter.com/AGhZwhGxzn Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) August 6, 2024 Oh, and he did this: Here's Tim Walz, the governor of MN and Kamala's VP pick, signing a bill to give illegals driver's licenses. This is the single most radical VP pick in AGES. pic.twitter.com/VZI6SVviPs Justin Hart (@justin_hart) August 6, 2024 Walz is cut from the same cloth as some of the most notoriously and vicious leftists of world historytheir legacy is his legacy. Now, all that being said, Im going to wager a guess and say that its the booze brain, as Pelosi is definitely not firing on all cylinders, her skin suit is barely hanging on (she is almost indistinguishable from the Cryptkeeper at this point), and shes about as senile as Joe Biden. Certainly, she doesnt remember when she suggested Walz was too extreme, suggesting perhaps he tone down his far-left views: Gov. Tim Walz is so extreme on abortion that Nancy Pelosi once told him that he needs to tone it down & be more moderate. Dont vote for the ticket that will allow babies to die up until the moment of birth, and in some cases, even after birth. pic.twitter.com/FjtlEepfPg Kristan Hawkins (@KristanHawkins) August 6, 2024 Image: DonkeyHotey, CC BY 2.0, via Flickr, unaltered. The Pax Romana existed from circa 27 BC to circa 180 AD when Rome controlled most of the Mediterranean and large parts of the eastern Atlantic Ocean. Because Rome was such a strong presence, it prevented regional warfare. If you liked Roman rule, it was a peaceful time. The Pax Americana existed from 1945 until 2021 when America was the worlds strongest nation. There were regional wars but, for the most part, American pressure kept them from escalating into nuclear chaos or complete regional collapse. 9/11 shook that system, Obamas leading from behind weakened it, and the Harris-Biden administration destroyed it. We now tremble on the brink. Image by Andrea Widburg using AI. As astute observers at this site (e.g., here and here) have noticed practically from the beginning of the Harris-Biden administration, Joe Biden, the titular leader of America, was rapidly descending into senility. It doesnt take Shakespeares King Lear to demonstrate that a weak, aged ruler, let alone a demented one, is an invitation to disaster on an epic scale. Actual history bears that out. See, for example, France under Charles VI, who thought he was made of glass, and England under Henry VI, Charles VIs grandson, who went from being an infant king to an insane one. Their weaknesses contributed to the horror of the Hundred Years War. Currently, the days news keeps making me think of the Kingston Trios classic The Merry Little Minuet: Theyre rioting in Africa. Theyre starving in Spain. Theres hurricanes in Florida and Texas needs rain. The whole world is festering with unhappy souls. The French hate the Germans. The Germans hate the Poles. Italians hate Yugoslavs. South Africans hate the Dutch. And I dont like anybody very much! But we can be tranquil and thankful and proud For mans been endowed with a mushroom-shaped cloud. And we know for certain that some lovely day Someone will set the spark off and we will all be blown away. Theyre rioting in Africa. Theres strife in Iran. What nature doesnt do to us will be done by our fellow man. Its a cute song, but its not so cute in real life. In the world under Kamala Harris and Joe Biden: Theres rioting in England Iran is threatening to destroy Israel, and, thanks to Bidens refusal to back Israel in its war against Iranian terror proxies (Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis), Iran may really launch a massive strike. Israel is planning a preemptive strike Turkey is threatening war against Israel Israel may be facing a two-front war because Hezbollah has been firing daily missiles at it non-stop for almost a year (something the world media ignore), which is intolerable The Ukraine-Russia war is halfway through its third year, and Ukraine now has F-16 fighter jets China is waiting for a little bit more American weakness to strike Taiwan Deadly riots just drove out Bangladeshs prime minister The American and Asian stock markets are in trouble Americas commercial real estate market and the labor market are also in trouble Oh, and did I mention that North Korea has moved nuclear-capable missiles right up to the South Korean border? North Korea is sending hundreds of nuclear-capable weapons to its border as it refuses to ramp down tensions with the U.S. and the West, state media reported on Monday. The weapons 250 tactical ballistic missile launchers are being delivered to southern North Korea along South Koreas border, according to KCNA Watch. A ceremony featuring North Korean dictator Kim Jong-Un was held on Sunday to celebrate the delivery of the missile launchers. When America is weak, unstable countries collapse, and strong, hostile countries flex their muscles. We had no wars, and the world was stable under Trump. Since Kamala and Joe entered the White House, everything is going to hell in a handbasket. The really sad thing is that this is what the left wants. They want a weak America because she must pay for her historic sins. And if that means that the world burns, so be it. (This fall, vote as if your life depends on it because it really may.) America has been in somewhat of political chaos since 2016 and Donald Trump stormed into office, what we saw was a radicalization of the Democrat party that was more obsessed with defeating Trump, and to do that they turned ever more increasingly to the radical Left wing of the party. In the film The Dark Knight, Bruce Wayne is trying to understand why the Gotham City Mob has turned to the Joker and his Butler states: You squeezed them, you hammered them to the point of desperation. And in their desperation, they turned to a man they didn't fully understand. You see, Trump burst onto the scene and with his unorthodox tactics was able to defeat the more traditional Democrats such as Hillary Clinton, the Democrats were squeezed and hammered to the point of desperation, and like the Gotham City Mob in their desperation, they turned to a portion of the party they didn't fully understand. You see, defeating Donald Trump required the very unorthodox means he employed to win, so the Democrat party leadership turned to the portion of the party that was radical and unorthodox. These people employed banana republic tactics to attack their opponents. Over the last eight years, the Democrat party gave its blessing for the Radical Left to go on the attack; they did not care that all of these efforts to defeat Donald Trump would in fact destabilize the nation and their own party. Going back to The Dark Knight, the Mob turned to Joker for help taking down Batman; however, a deal with the devil never ends well, and Joker ends up taking over the mob for his own ends. In much the same way, the Radical Left, when given the blessing and authority of the Party leadership, has now taken over the Democrat party. Gone are the days of the more reasonable Left like Bill Clinton; it is now replaced by the policies of Radical Left faction. America is seemingly entering a period not unlike the Year of the Five Emperors in Ancient Rome, an era that was so politically volatile that it saw the Empire unable to keep an emperor in power. When one emperor was weak or unpopular he was simply swapped out by the Elite (Back then the Pretorian Guard). When once the role of emperor commanded respect, it now was a title banded about for the benefit of whoever could scratch it away. America is in a period of large-scale political unrest, the destabilization caused by the Lefts attacks has had a crippling effect on American politics, the media has been weaponized into an almost single organism that speaks with the same voice and lines, and the Justice Department is now a tool to be used to attack opponents. Social media and influencers have also been used, with rhetoric getting so volatile that it resulted in an assassination attempt. The Radical Left faction has no rules; we saw this with the unprecedented palace coup against Joe Biden. When an emperor is weak, the new status quo is to remove him and replace him with someone else who will walk in lockstep. As with the year of the five emperors, America will have had three single-term presidents, four if Trump wins and a new president comes in 2028. Kamala's coronation as the new Democrat nominee is not looking like it will change the Radical Left's attacks. I suspect they will only increase, as now the Radical Left has ejected the more traditional Democrat (Joe Biden) and replaced him with Harris, who is one of their own. The Democrats wish to destroy Donald Trump; however, it would be foolish to think the Radical Left will give up its control of the party if he is defeated in this election. Expect the Democrat Party to spiral more and more Left, as the party leaders have lost control of their own party. Trump squeezed them, he hammered them to the point of desperation, and in that desperation, the Democrats may have cracked the foundation of our nation and taken us down the path of Rome and its year of the Five Emperors. Byron Lafayette is a journalist and author. He currently serves as editor-in-chief for VH News. Follow him on X/Twitter at @ByronLafayette. Inage: AT via Magic Studio In European history, few love stories are as poignant and politically charged as that of Ines de Castro and King Pedro I of Portugal. Their tale, marked by passion, betrayal, and vengeance, blends legend and reality, creating a captivating story of medieval intrigue and lasting love. In the heart of 14th-century Portugal, where alliances were often sealed with strategic marriages, the romance between Pedro, the heir to the throne, and Ines, a lady-in-waiting of Galician nobility, blossomed against the backdrop of courtly expectations and dynastic ambitions. What began as a forbidden affair would culminate in a dramatic series of events that saw Ines brutally murdered on royal orders and Pedro, upon ascending the throne, exacting a chilling retribution that would etch their love story into the annals of history. The Coronation of Ines de Castro in 1361. Painting by Pierre Charles Comte (18231895) Ines de Castro was the daughter of Pedro Fernandez de Castro, Lord of Lemos and Sarria, and his noble Portuguese mistress Aldonca Lourenco de Valadares. Her family descended both from the Galician and Portuguese nobilities and she was also well connected to the Castilian royal family by illegitimate descent. In 1339, when Ines was only 14 years old, she arrived in Portugal as a lady-in-waiting to Constance of Castile, who had recently married to Pedro, the son of King Afonso IV of Portugal and the heir to the Portuguese throne. Once the 19-year-old Pedro laid eyes on the golden-haired Ines, he forgot all about his newly wedded wife and fell in love with her. The two became entangled in an intense teenage love affair, drawing disapproval from King Afonso. Ines was the sister of two powerful Galician noblemen, Alvaro Perez de Castro and Fernando de Castro, and through her sister, they became Pedros closest advisors. King Afonso grew concerned about the growing influence the brothers wielded over his son. 19th-century depiction of Ines de Castro. As a way to end her husband's affair, Constance invited Ines to be the godmother of her first son. According to the Catholic Church's precepts at the time, the relationship between a godparent and a parent of the baptized child was considered one of moral kinship, rendering their love almost incestuous. However, the child died within a week, and the adulterous romance between Pedro and Ines only intensified. In 1344, King Afonso IV exiled Ines to the Castilian border, but this did not deter Pedro from visiting her. Shortly after giving birth to her third child, Constance died. With his legal wife gone, Pedro began living openly with Ines, recognized all her children as his, and refused to marry anyone other than Ines herself. His father, hoping the infatuation would end, refused to go to war against Castile and attempted to arrange another dynastic marriage for Pedro. The two lovers, now closer than ever, went on to have four children. During this time, Pedro began giving Ines's brothers, who had been exiled from the Castilian court, important positions in Portugal. As the years passed and the aging King Afonso IV lost control over his court, the situation worsened. Pedros only legitimate son, Ferdinand I of Portugal, was a sickly child, while Ines's illegitimate children thrived. Worried about his legitimate grandson's life and the growing influence of Castile within Portugal, the King concluded that only the death of Ines would save the country from civil war. The assassination of Ines de Castro. Painting by Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro (18571929) One day, while Pedro was away, the King sent three men to the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha in Coimbra, where Ines was detained, and had her killed, decapitating her in front of her small children. When Pedro learned that his father had masterminded Iness murder, he became enraged and rose in revolt against his father, with Iness brothers fighting alongside him. King Afonso defeated his son within a year, but died shortly thereafter. Pedro succeeded to the throne in 1357. Immediately, he sought out Ines's killers, who had gone into hiding in Castile, and managed to capture two of them. Legend has it that he executed them publicly by ripping their hearts out with his own hands. Pedro claimed that he had secretly married Ines some years earlier, making her the rightful queen. According to legend, the king ordered her body to be exhumed, dressed, crowned, and placed on the throne for her coronation. He commanded the courtiers to swear allegiance to her, something they had neglected to do during her lifetime, by kissing the hem of her gown. After the ceremony, she was buried in the royal monastery in Alcobaca. Tomb of Ines de Castro. Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons Modern scholars assert that the story of Iness posthumous coronation is a myth first appearing in Spanish playwright Jeronimo Bermudez's 1577 play Nise Laureada. However, Pedro did have Iness body removed from her resting place in Coimbra and taken to Alcobaca, where it was reburied in the royal monastery. Her tomb can still be seen, positioned opposite Pedros, so that, according to legend, when Pedro and Ines rise from their graves on the Last Judgment, they can look at each other. Both tombs are exquisitely sculpted with scenes from their lives and a promise by Pedro that they would be together ate ao fim do mundo (until the end of the world). The story of Pedro and Ines is often compared to Romeo and Juliet. The scene of a mad king insisting that his lover's rotting body be dressed in coronation robes, propped up on a throne, crowned, and her hand kissed by noblemen, has proved irresistible to many adaptors, forming a grotesque set piece for plays, poems, paintings, operas, and novels. Pedro and Iness story continues to inspire countless retellings and artistic representations, ensuring that their legacy endures through the ages, capturing the imagination of all who hear it. Samsung has been working on its VR headset for a while, which, according to a recent report from Business Insider, is expected to be released towards the end of 2024 or early 2025. A rumor suggests that Samsung will adopt some design elements and features from its VR headset for the Galaxy S25 series. The news comes from tipster Ice Universe. Galaxy S25 to adopt design elements and features from Samsungs upcoming VR headset Samsung has been working with Qualcomm and Google for its VR headset. While the tipster claims some design elements and features will be common between the next Galaxy flagship and the companys first VR headset, theres no specific information about it at this point. According to SamMobile, it is possible that Samsung will offer a Gear VR kind of experience where the phone powers the headset. However, all the leaks we have come across so far hint that the companys first VR headset will be a standalone device. It means the headset will have its own power source and processing hardware, like the Apple Vision Pro. Speaking of Apples offering, it is not only quite expensive but also somewhat failed to meet expectations. It will be interesting to see whether Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm can offer something more appealing to the market. A previous report claims that the Galaxy XR device will offer two 3500ppi OLEDoS displays manufactured by Samsung Display. The latest news suggests that the XR device will come with an external design that looks somewhat similar to the S25 series devices. It could also mean that the S25 series will finally make a shift from the design it has stuck with for the last couple of years. Rumors suggest that the Galaxy S25 series will finally have a different design compared to the Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S24 series. Its unclear how the Galaxy XR might look There have not been any renders or concept images of the Galaxy XR so far from a reliable source. Therefore its hard to imagine what the head-mounted device may look like. In addition to that, the rumor of Samsung making a shift in the design of its upcoming S series flagship lineup (that will reportedly have similarities with the XR device) makes it even harder to imagine how the headset might look. Earlier in February, Google brought Gemini to smartphones with a dedicated app. Soon after, there were reports that Google was working towards bringing Gemini to headphones. Now more evidence for the same has appeared in the latest version of the Google app. A new Gemini on earbuds branding has been spotted in the Google app by 9to5Google. The Google apps code contains strings that mention Gemini on earbuds According to the source, a mention of Gemini on earbuds has been found inside the code of version 15.31 of the Google app. In the teardown of the app, the outlet has found a mention of this branding. One of the strings reads Your new AI assistant is on headphones. Furthermore, the Google app v15.31s code also mentions Talk to Gemini on earbuds. It looks like Google is all set to let you access Gemini on your phones using your headphones or earbuds. Previous reports have suggested that youll be able to summon Gemini using voice commands for earbuds/headphones. The functionality should be similar to what we have for the Google Assistant. After summoning Gemini using your earbuds, you will be able to ask a question about a certain topic and Gemini will give you a spoken response. It will be interesting to see how Google optimizes Gemini on earbuds or headphones. Especially when it comes to the length of responses. We will have to wait and watch. Google could announce it alongside the upcoming Pixel Buds 2 Pro Google could announce Geminis support for earbuds alongside the upcoming Pixel Buds 2 Pro. Its merely speculation at the moment since Google hasnt teased or announced it yet. Its also not clear if the AI chatbot will work with the current Google Assistant-powered earbuds and headphones. The next-gen Pixel Buds 2 Pro are rumored to be launched alongside the latest Pixel 9 series of smartphones later this month. Some reports indicate that the new earbuds may see the light of the day in September instead. A report surfaced yesterday regarding HONOR. It was published by Reuters, and in it, HONORs sales target, IPO, and state support were mentioned. We wanted to get a statement from HONOR before tackling that report. HONOR did provide us with an official statement regarding the unusually strong state backing mentioned in that report. So, lets see what was said. HONOR is said to have unusually strong state backing for its global expansion In its report, Reuters said that HONOR is receiving an unusually high level of support from local government backers. It was also mentioned that HONOR is preparing for an initial public offering (IPO). That information was acquired from policy documents and a person close to the matter. It was mentioned that Honor is receiving research-and-development funding, tax breaks and support to expand overseas. This was based on three Shenzen government documents and a person close to the matter, said HONOR. Based on the provided information, HONOR is actually planning to sell 100 million smartphones annually by 2026. That would represent a 75% jump compared to 2023. HONOR is also planning to become a top three global vendor by 2028. HONOR provided us with an official statement regarding the report Those are huge plans by HONOR. The companys representative provided us with a statement regarding Reuters report. Its a three-sentence statement, without going into the details. You can read it below in its entirety. HONOR is always committed to being open and transparent. In terms of the listing progress, we are targeting reforming the stockholding system in this Q4, and the following IPO process will come subsequently in due course. Meanwhile, we will also disclose relevant financial data during the process. So, HONOR basically promised to be as transparent as possible, which is probably the best response the company could have provided at the time. One thing is for sure, HONOR has huge plans moving forward, and based on the companys products in the last couple of years, and the progress made that optimism is justified. X (formerly Twitter) is planning to close its office in San Francisco. The social media platform, owned by Elon Musk, would not terminate employees. Instead, they would have to share office space with other departments of the company X regrets shuttering the location but asks employees to adjust X is closing its office in San Francisco. The company has reportedly sent out an internal communication, informing employees they have a few weeks to shift location. In the email from Xs Chief Executive Officer, Linda Yaccarino said workers would move to existing offices in San Jose. In the email, Yaccarino wrote: This is an important decision that impacts many of you, but it is the right one for our company in the long term. BREAKING: plans to close it's San Francisco Office over the next few weeks. pic.twitter.com/eplc6D20ja DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) August 5, 2024 The e-mail, reportedly sent out early Monday morning, indicates X will also open an engineering-focused office in Palo Alto, California. The new office space will include employees working on xAI, the Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) branch that Musk had started to challenge Googles Gemini and OpenAIs ChatGPT Why is X closing its San Francisco office? It is not clear why X is closing its San Francisco office. It certainly comes as a shock primarily because this office is generally considered as the home base for X. Twitter was founded in San Francisco in 2006. Although the office being shuttered isnt the first location, Twitter moved into the new office in 2012. Twitter may have inspired Uber because the latter also opened its office in the neighborhood. Police chased away workers who were supposed to remove the Twitter logo from the company's San Francisco office and replace it with an X It turned out that the installers did not have a permit to work on the facade of the building. Now an unnamed blue bird remains on the building https://t.co/8bPicBuH3J pic.twitter.com/yAWYDhIaJa Mikhail Kulakov (@mikkulakov) July 25, 2023 Xs owner Elon Musk has had a rather rocky relationship with the citys authorities. After his acquisition, Musk reportedly skipped a few rent payments to the companys landlord. He even clashed with San Franciscos local administration for setting up temporary overnight accommodations. He even clashed with the citys Department of Building Inspection for installing a giant flashing X on top of the building. Neither Yaccarino nor Musk has made any official comment explaining their reasons for closing the Xs San Francisco office. However, the company has been striving to run a leaner operation. After all, asking employees to share office space certainly helps cut costs. A prosecutor has alleged the involuntary manslaughter case against Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin was improperly thrown out because a judge misunderstood the evidence. Baldwins trial was brought to a sudden end in July when a New Mexico judge ruled a charge, related to the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the film set of Rust, was to be dismissed. The judge threw the case out based on the misconduct of police and prosecutors over the withholding of ammunition evidence from the defence, while also confirming charges cannot be filed again. Prosecutor Kari Morrissey (Luis Sanchez Saturno/Santa Fe New Mexican via AP) Rust armourer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed has since asked a judge for a new trial on similar grounds, alleging there was extreme misconduct by the prosecutor related to withheld evidence. Kari Morrissey lead prosecutor in both the Baldwin and Gutierrez-Reed cases asked the judge to reject the request by Gutierrez-Reed, who is serving an 18-month sentence for involuntary manslaughter following the death of Hutchins. In her response to Gutierrez-Reeds request, Ms Morrissey suggested Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer dropped the Baldwin case without hearing any of the testimony or argument. Although the courts final order has not yet been filed, undersigned counsel contends that the court misunderstood the testimony on July 12, 2024, and improperly dismissed the case against Mr Baldwin, Ms Morrissey said in the court documents. The prosecutor argued that even if the judge ruled the dismissal of the case against Mr Baldwin was proper there is a huge difference in the Gutierrez-Reed case in relation to the ammunition evidence. Ms Morrissey and representatives for Baldwin have been contacted for comment. Elon Musk has been accused of being an attention seeker and the PR manager for the far right who is courting controversy to drive engagement on X, the platform he owns, one expert has said. The billionaire Tesla and SpaceX owner has escalated his spat with Sir Keir Starmer, calling him Two-tier Keir and criticising the Prime Ministers response to the ongoing disorder on Britains streets. Mr Musk has posted or reposted a series of images, videos and memes related to the rioting, including content that has been widely shared on right-wing accounts on the platform. And he has been praised by right-wing activist Tommy Robinson whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon over allowing him to return to the platform, having previously been banned for breaking the sites hate speech rules. Social media expert Matt Navarra called Mr Musk the worlds biggest attention-seeking billionaire who was almost incapable of controlling his outbursts, despite the detrimental impact it has on his business. I think, to be honest, right now, Elon Musk is acting like the PR manager for the far right and can reasonably be put in the same class as Andrew Tate and Tommy Robinson, he told the PA news agency. His words do have consequences, and his behaviour is much like a far-right ring leader, with X as his megaphone, thats inciting racial hatred intentionally or not. Mr Navarra said he believed much of Mr Musks current actions were all about driving more engagement to the site. The thing that speaks volumes to Elon is money, and also things that power his ego, he said He speaks of standing up for free speech, but his actions and words are almost always self-serving and do nothing but drive attention to him and to his businesses, growing an ego that, to be honest, is already out of control. Mr Navarra added that the Government should consider taking action to impact the reach of the platform in order to force a response from the billionaire. The UK could really do with showing that its Online Safety Act has teeth and take some steps to curtail his platforms reach drive him to make changes to the platform or to his own actions, he said. Its also worth noting that the UK is an important market for X, its one of the most popular social platforms in Europe and in the UK, and the impact of any actions that could be taken against the platform could be significant in terms of his wider, bigger future plans for X as a payment platform, or for anything else he wants to achieve with the platform that is already laden with debt. So I dont think he wants to be stirring up too much trouble, but probably is seeing how much he can get away with. Pat de Brun, deputy director of tech at Amnesty International, said the algorithms at the heart of social media platforms, which he said prioritise engagement, were a key factor in the current spread of disinformation. In the UK, the racist violence that has spilled across the streets follows a period of intense scapegoating of refugees and migrants by politicians and others, through dangerous rhetoric and policies, he said. In this context, social media algorithms have actively amplified and escalated xenophobic discourse. These toxic algorithms are deliberately designed to prioritise engagement above all else. As a result, they act as incendiaries that fuel division, disinformation and hate. X has not responded to any request for comment around the Southport attacks and misinformation on its platform. Courts across England are expected to see appearances of more suspects after riots over the weekend. A number of people have already appeared in court in connection with disorder which saw police officers injured and buildings damaged. On Tuesday, many more are expected to answer to charges such as violent disorder at magistrates courts. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said one man, Jordan Parlour, 28, has been charged with intending to stir up racial hatred relating to alleged posts on Facebook, and is due to appear at Leeds Magistrates Court. Six people are due to appear at Sheffield Magistrates Court following rioting outside a hotel which housed migrants in Rotherham on Sunday. Lee Crisp, 42, of Mount Road, Grimethorpe, Christopher Rodgers, 38, of Millmoor Road, Barnsley, and Liam Grey, 20, of Randerson Drive, Mexborough, have been charged with violent disorder alongside two teenagers who cannot be named for legal reasons. Joshua Simpson, 26, of Sherbrook Street, Lincoln, has been charged with violent disorder and assault of an emergency worker, South Yorkshire Police added. Cleveland Police said a total of 28 people are due to appear at Teesside Magistrates Court charged with violent disorder and other offences following violence in Middlesbrough on Sunday. The force said the court had set aside a remand court to deal with those appearing on Tuesday. Merseyside Police said Dylan Carey, 26, of Castle Hill Road in Hindley, Greater Manchester, is listed to appear at Liverpool Magistrates Court charged with violent disorder following violence in Southport last Tuesday. The force said a 15-year-old boy from Liverpool is due to appear at the same court accused of violent disorder following further violence in the city centre on Saturday. (PA Graphics) Elsewhere, eight people have been charged in connection with disturbances that broke out during protests in Nottingham city centre. Nottinghamshire Police arrested 15 people at a protest in the citys Old Market Square on Saturday, with one woman and seven men aged between 18 and 46 now charged with a variety of crimes, including public order, weapon offences and assaulting an emergency worker. Another man, Ashley Harris, 36, of Chipperfield Drive, Kingswood, is due in court in Bristol charged in connection with violent disorder in the city centre on Saturday, Avon and Somerset Police said. The disorder across the country followed the fatal stabbings of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club in Southport last week. Previously, judges condemned the recent violent scenes, with one describing violence in Belfast as absolutely disgraceful. Justice minister Heidi Alexander said the Government will bring more than 500 additional prison places into use to deal with rioting, and some 6,000 specialist police officers were at the ready. She told LBC that courts could possibly begin sitting through the evening, the night, at weekends in order to swiftly prosecute rioters. Courts could sit through night to deal with rioters as violence continues Courts could begin sitting through the night a minister has suggested, as thousands of specialist police officers stand ready to deal with the rioting which continues across the UK. Disorder has now lasted for a week, with unrest witnessed across England and in parts of Northern Ireland. Police were injured during sustained violence in Plymouth on Monday, while similar trouble on the streets of Darlington saw officers pelted with bricks. Six people have, meanwhile, been charged in connection with riots outside a hotel in Rotherham on Sunday, which was being used to house asylum seekers. Justice minister Heidi Alexander said the Government will bring more than 500 additional prison places into use to deal with rioting, and some 6,000 specialist police officers were at the ready. We will make sure that anyone who is given a custodial sentence as a result of the riots and disorder, there will be a prison place waiting for them, she warned on BBC Radio 4s Today programme. The minister said some 567 additional prison spaces would soon come into use. Extra cells at HMP Stocken, Rutland, will be in use from next week, she said, with plans also in place to use space at Cookham Wood Young Offender Institution in Kent for adult prisoners. She also revealed more detail about the planned standing army of police officers Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced on Monday afternoon. Heidi Alexander said offenders given a custodial sentence would find a prison place waiting for them (UK Parliament/PA) Ms Alexander told Times Radio: These are police officers who have had specialist training in dealing with public order offences. We had 4,000 available at the weekend. There will be another 2,000 available this week. It also means that police officers are able to be deployed in parts of the country where they are needed most. Elsewhere, she said courts could possibly begin sitting through the evening, the night, at weekends in order to swiftly prosecute rioters. The additional courts protocol, which was created in the aftermath of the 2011 riots, could be invoked in areas where police and prosecuting chiefs feel it is needed, the minister also told LBC. The courts are now willing to consider any of those requests, according to Ms Alexander. The Governments toughening stance comes as South Yorkshire police said said people have been charged with offences following rioting outside a hotel in Rotherham on Sunday. Lee Crisp, 42, of Mount Road, Grimethorpe; Christopher Rodgers, 38, of Millmoor Road, Barnsley; and Liam Grey, 20, of Randerson Drive, Mexborough; have been charged with violent disorder. Two boys aged 16 and 17, who cannot be named for legal reasons, have also been charged with violent disorder. (PA Graphics) Joshua Simpson, 26, of Sherbrook Street, Lincoln, has been charged with violent disorder and assault of an emergency worker. The force said all six are due to appear at Sheffield Magistrates Court on Tuesday morning. Meanwhile, Avon and Somerset Police said a third man has been charged in connection with violent disorder in Bristol city centre on Saturday Ashley Harris, 36, of Chipperfield Drive, Kingswood, has been charged with violent disorder and is due to appear at Bristol Magistrates Court later on Tuesday. Two other men, aged 45 and 39, were charged with Section 4 public order offences on Sunday and are due in court in September. In Plymouth on Monday night, several officers suffered minor injuries and two members of the public were taken to hospital, Devon and Cornwall Police said. According to Durham Police, one person has been arrested after bricks were thrown at police during violent disorder in Darlington on Monday evening. The force said Section 60 and 60AA powers have been authorised in the area, giving officers enhanced stop and search capabilities and the authority to order people to remove face coverings. Following the disorder, Assistant Chief Constable Richie Allen said: What we have been dealing with tonight in Darlington has been sporadic pockets of violent disorder involving groups of people intent on causing serious harm to our communities and their property. The violence was sparked after the deaths of left to right, six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, in Southport (Merseyside Police/PA) In Southport, hundreds of people attended a peaceful vigil on Monday evening a week on from the murders of Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar. Children blew bubbles and others left flowers and heart-shaped balloons on Monday evening in remembrance of the victims of the stabbing attack at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club. Merseyside Police have since said one child caught up in the incident remained in hospital but all other patients had been discharged. Incorrect rumours, that the suspect in the stabbings was an asylum seeker who arrived in the UK on a small boat spread via social media, appear to have fuelled the unrest. Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby said rioters defile the nations flag as they carry out criminal violence, and he hit out at manipulation which he said must be strongly resisted. He told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: This (violence) is not the United Kingdom. Its not British. Its not English. They defile the flag that they wrap themselves in. Disorder has also continued in areas of Belfast while, in Birmingham, Sky News reported on Monday that one of its vans was attacked by a knife-wielding man. The news outlet reported its journalists had observed a large gathering of Muslim men who said they were preparing to defend the street from another rumoured far-right protest in the area. There have been at least 378 arrests since the violence broke out last week, with the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) warning the total is expected to rise each day. Organisation Tell Mama, which monitors anti-Muslim attacks, said it had called the police over far-right threats on Telegram that seek to target immigration solicitors and refugee services in more than 30 locations across the country on Wednesday. Cats aren't exactly the friendliest animals, but you can always tell when one is well-loved. Just take a Maine Coon Cat on the internet, who was completely unbothered when his owner did the one task cats usually hate grooming. Zeus is a ginormous Maine Coon Cat, which means he has a lot (and we mean a lot) of fur. Zeus is so large that he's almost as big as his human owner. Thankfully for all of us, the woman loves to show off her humongous Maine Coon Cat. Related: 'Patchwork' Maine Coon Cat Is Actually a Rare Genetic Chimera Recently, one of Zeus' many fans asked his mom how she brushes out all that beautiful Maine Coon fur. So she demonstrated their usual grooming routine in a new video online. Zeus was so relaxed as his mama worked through all that thick fur. The good kitty didn't move one bit. "A lot of brushing," she wrote, in response to the commenter who asked how she kept up with the matting. "Mats we cut with a scissor," she added. This might seem obvious to non-cat owners, but to other Maine Coon Cat owners this was practically magic. "My Maine Coon will only let me brush him for a good 10 seconds and after that he is ready to fight," wrote one person. "My Maine Coon will not allow any brushing. Shell slice me to ribbons if I go near her," another commenter lamented. "Neither of my Maine Coons let me brush them lol. They run when they see the brush," added one person. Cat Grooming Tips Many people in the comments section had lots of ideas on how to get your cat used to grooming. "You start brushing when they are kittens and you do it a couple times a day. They will learn to let you do it," one commenter advised. And this is true! Starting your cats young is a great way to get them accustomed to grooming, so it feels like a natural part of their routine. It's possible to train your older cat to enjoy grooming, but it takes a little bit more effort. Another good tip is to groom them regularly. We know, we know, cat's don't always make this a fun task. But it is necessary to avoid matting. If it's really a pain, keep grooming sessions really short, but do them more frequently. Finally, remember that rewards do wonders. Cats respond well to treats for a job well done. So keep some handy for after the grooming session ends. Obviously, Zeus is a pretty special guy. But if you take our advice there's a good chance your cat can grow to love getting brushed too. Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips. The Government has confirmed it will repeal the controversial law which aimed to ensure a minimum level of service during strikes. The Conservative government took forward the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act last year in response to the unprecedented wave of industrial action by hundreds of thousands of workers over pay, jobs and conditions. The move sparked fury among unions, with warnings that workers faced being sacked for going on strike. Labour promised to repeal the Act if it won the election and today confirmed it was taking action. Ministers said industrial action in the NHS alone cost the taxpayer 1.7 billion last year with many other sectors also seeing costs and impacts to public services, adding that it proved strong but fair negotiation was key to tackling issues between workers and employers. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds have written to the Government departments with sectors most impacted by strikes: Education, Health, Transport, the Home Office and Energy, as well as Welsh and Scottish governments, to give a clear message that legislation will be repealed. They have also written to all 12 metro mayors across the country to start engaging with local employers on the change. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said: Attempting to clamp down on the fundamental freedom of working people has got us nowhere and this was targeted at sectors who dedicate their lives to serving us all. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner described the service level law as pointless (Jordan Pettitt/PA) Thats why were scrapping this pointless law and creating a new partnership between business, trade unions and working people through our New Deal. Repealing this legislation is the first part of our plan to reset industrial relations so they are fit for a modern economy. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: We need to get Britains economy moving again, deliver growth and the public services which taxpayers deserve. The Strikes Act has not worked unbelievably the UK has lost more days due to strike action than France, costing the taxpayer billions of pounds, and these divisive laws havent resolved a single strike since they were introduced. The TUCs Paul Nowak said the Government was right to repeal the Act (Peter Byrne/PA) By removing minimum service levels, we will reset industrial relations, so they are based on good faith negotiation and bargaining, ending the chaos and restoring trust in public services. This is about restoring politics as public service, ensuring Government acts to fix problems not cause them. TUC general secretary Paul Nowak said: Public services work best when governments listen to and engage constructively with their workforces. The TUC and countless experts repeatedly warned the previous Conservative administration that its vindictive minimum service levels (MSLs) were unworkable and would only worsen and prolong disputes. Strikes are resolved around the table not through legislating away dissent, but the Tories insisted on railroading MSLs through Parliament in order to score headlines and look tough to backbenchers. It speaks volumes that not one single employer to date has issued a work notice ordering staff to break a strike. They too can see how toxic these laws are. The new Government is right to repeal this spiteful legislation. Its time for a new, grown-up era of industrial relations. Rachel Suff of the CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, said: When it was first proposed, we expressed concerns this law would not enhance employment relations or protect the public and that it could undermine trust between trade unions and employers. Good employment relations start with collaboration and partnership, and we support the repeal of this legislation which many employers had raised concerns about. Mick Lynch, general secretary of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union, whose strikes sparked the Conservative governments minimum services legislation, said: We welcome this move as an opportunity to reset industrial relations in Britain and to move to a position of negotiating just settlements to disputes rather than having trade unions attacked and demonised. This success of ensuring the repeal of minimum service legislation is a direct result of the concerted efforts by the trade union movement, and we will continue to champion the interests of railway staff, seafarers and offshore workers. Royal College of Nursing general secretary Professor Nicola Ranger said: Nursing staff are a safety-critical workforce in health and care services, and when you prevent them from speaking out, you put patients at risk. The government is absolutely right to heed our calls to repeal an Act that was harmful to industrial relations and did nothing to advance the cause of high-quality and safe patient care. The government must soon go the whole way and remove the remaining anti-union legislation and continue on this mature approach to relations with public sector workers and their representatives. Unison general secretary Christina McAnea said: This was a terrible law. Its great the government is ditching it so early on. Good riddance to a bad law. This legislation should have never reached the statute book. No one wanted minimum service levels, only a spiteful government watching power drain away and desperate to shore up its rapidly disappearing support. Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders union NAHT, said: We welcome the new governments move to scrap these proposals, which were a vindictive ideologic attack on a basic democratic freedom. Phil Banfield, chairman of the BMA council, said: The repeal of this legislation has been a long, hard fight and we welcome its demise. The minimum services level law was a cynical attempt to respond to workers genuine concerns around their pay and conditions by suppressing them rather than working with them. Such draconian measures quite rightly belong in the dustbin of legislative history. The new Government has recognised that it costs far less to negotiate a settlement with NHS workers than it does to try and fight them. The way to a better health service is not through suppressing its workers in the name of safety but by collaborating with them to make sure that we have an NHS that is safe and effective every day. The Government stands ready and prepared should tensions further escalate in the Middle East, Foreign Secretary David Lammy told Tuesdays Cabinet meeting. In Lebanon, where Hezbollah and neighbouring Israel have exchanged rocket fire, preparedness could include military evacuations for foreign nationals with several options open to the UK Government, the PA news agency understands. Commercial routes remain open to UK nationals trying to make their exit, and the Foreign Secretary has repeatedly urged them to leave in statements made over the past week. Mr Lammys commitment comes amid fears retaliation for the killings last week of senior members of militant groups Hezbollah and Hamas may lead to a wider war in the region. Tuesdays Cabinet readout from Downing Street read: Turning to the Middle East, the Foreign Secretary updated on the rising tensions across the region and said that the Governments focus was around encouraging de-escalation. He made clear that the Government stood ready and prepared should the situation deteriorate. Around 3,000 British nationals are estimated to have filled in a form to tell the UK Government about their presence in Lebanon, among a total of around 16,000 UK nationals in the country. Military personnel and consular experts have been deployed to the Middle East to help them. Evacuating UK nationals to Cyprus via a seabridge in an Operation Highbrow-style mission is thought to be among the solutions, if war begins. Operation Highbrow saw 4,500 British nationals evacuated from Lebanon using warships during the 2006 Lebanon War. Today, I spoke with my G7 counterparts to urgently push for regional de-escalation. The UK continues to work around the clock with international partners to reduce tensions in the Middle East.https://t.co/NqBYv1Ib7s David Lammy (@DavidLammy) August 4, 2024 Concerns over an all-out conflict have mounted following the assassinations, attributed to Israel, of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Irans capital Tehran, and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Lebanons Beirut. Sir Keir Starmer also highlighted the urgent need for de-escalation in the Middle East in his Tuesday morning meeting with Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tariq Al Said. The Prime Minister discussed Omans defence and economy with the countrys leader as he hosted him for bilateral talks at No 10. A Downing Street spokesman said: Turning to the situation in the Middle East, the Prime Minister emphasised the clear and urgent need for de-escalation and urged all parties in the region to exercise restraint. Irish premier Simon Harris has condemned what he called a trend of threatening and dehumanising politicians, saying it should not be accepted as normal. An Garda Siochana, Irelands police force, said they are investigating a threat made on social media against Mr Harris. Several protests have been held outside the Taoiseachs family home as well as the homes of ministers. Former Garda chief Noirin OSullivan said abuse in political life is disproportionately directed at women and minority groups (Niall Carson/PA) Last September, a mock gallows was wheeled outside the Irish parliament as politicians returned from the summer recess, featuring faces of government ministers and opposition politicians. This prompted Irish politicians to raise concerns about a Jo Cox moment in Ireland, referring to the UK MP who was murdered in 2016. Concerns have continued to be raised about a coarsening of rhetoric against politicians in Ireland, which could put the approachable nature of Irish politics at risk. Former Garda commissioner Noirin OSullivan said abuse in political life is prevalent and disproportionately directed at women and minority groups. In a statement released on Tuesday, Mr Harris said he did not wish to comment on his or his familys security but wished to address emerging trends. The laws of the land apply to people online just as much as offline, he said. There can be no hiding place for anyone seeking to threaten, attack or harm people or to incite others to do so. Politicians have become a regular target, and it is on the brink of being viewed as acceptable or a normal part of the job. It is not acceptable. I get up every day and go to work and work as hard as I can. So do most politicians I know from all parties, and none. Constant efforts to target us, demean us or dehumanise us should never be accepted, never be normalised, and always called out. I will never be deterred from doing my job as Taoiseach. Men and women of An Garda Siochana do us proud every day in their work and I thank them for that. I thank the people right across this country for their kindness and decency it means the world to me and my family. Great Britains Lewis Richardson hopes he can flick the switch and be proud of his bronze medal success in the not too distant future. The 27-year-old fell narrowly short of reaching the mens 71kg gold medal match after being beaten on split decision by Mexicos Marco Verde in the semi-final at Roland Garros on Tuesday. Bronze means Richardson is the only British boxer at Paris 2024 to win a medal. He was already guaranteed bronze following victory against Zeyad Eashash in the quarter-finals on Saturday and reflected on a bittersweet feeling after missing the chance to go for gold. Richardson was beaten on split decision (Peter Byrne/PA) He said: Its very raw and it is hard to process right now. Ive won that bronze medal, but its hard to fully celebrate because youre moving onto the next one and looking to change the colour of that medal. Im sure Im going to make a conscious effort whenever the times right and hopefully sooner rather than later to flick that switch and be proud of what Ive achieved. Because rightly or wrongly Im the only British boxer to medal at these Games and I hope Ive made the country proud. Richardson started the semi-final well, landing a solid punch to Verdes face, but the Mexican grew back into the round throwing a series of different combinations and breaking through the British fighters defence. The second round saw the British fighter show off his skills, landing a great uppercut and a couple of big blows to Verdes head to take the round on the majority of the judges cards. Richardson (right) landed some solid punches throughout the contest (Peter Byrne/PA) An evenly-poised contest boiled down to the third round and Richardson began to use his reach more, throwing a big strike to Verdes nose. The Mexican caught the British fighter on the cheek but struggled to land some big swings before being hit in the face again by Richardson. However all five judges saw it differently and awarded the Mexican the round which meant Richardsons dream of reaching the Olympic final was over and he admitted afterwards that he felt he won what was a tight contest. He added: It was close, it was a close bout. Its hard to say really if Im happy, Im a bit disappointed with my performance but what I will say is Im proud of myself about how Ive conducted myself throughout this tournament. Bronze for Lewis Richardson! The man from Colchester will leave Paris an Olympic medallist pic.twitter.com/EzD1v8DNbe Team GB (@TeamGB) August 6, 2024 Ive been ultra-professional and I hope that Ive represented the country with pride and honour because Ive done my best. So I hope the country are happy and proud of what Ive achieved because although Ive lost tonight Ive managed to bring a bronze medal home. I certainly did feel like I won the bout, but Im certainly not screaming a robbery because its close and its far too soon to say anything like that. For me he was a good opponent, seeded number two in the tournament and Im happy with my performances this week. Two more weeks of strike action in Scottish colleges have been announced as a long-running pay dispute continues. The Educational Institute of Scotlands (EIS) emergency committee said there would be six additional strike dates in the latter half of August. It comes after a recent re-ballot of members of the EISs Further Education Lecturers Association (EIS-FELA), who remained committed to taking industrial action against their employers in a pursuit of a pay settlement. Scottish further education lecturers have not received a pay increase since 2021, according to EIS. EIS general secretary Andrea Bradley said: Our members continue to stand firm in displaying their strong and unwavering commitment to industrial action in pursuit of a fair pay settlement from college employers. Scotlands FE lecturers have not had a pay increase since September 2021 and, for the past three years, have had to endure a sharp decline in the real-terms value of their salaries throughout the worst cost-of-living crisis in living memory. It is right that EIS-FELA continues to fight for a just pay award for lecturers, in the face of intransigence from College Employers Scotland and an unwillingness so far on the part of the Scottish Government to step up and play its part in bringing about a satisfactory resolution. I have written to the Minister for FE again today, urging the Scottish Government to act in accordance with its recent manifesto promises to stand up for workers and stand up for public services, by putting a stop to deeming by college employers and by providing a small amount of funding in comparison to that given to other public sector pay settlements to bring this dispute to an end. The EIS has authorised six more days of strikes from August 20-22 and 27-30. It warned further action may be taken after a meeting next week, and said more strikes may take place if no satisfactory offer is made. Gavin Donoghue, director of College Employers Scotland (CES), said: It is deeply regrettable that the EIS-FELA is planning yet more strikes at the start of the academic year, on top of the continuing resulting boycott. College Employers Scotland has proposed a four-year pay award worth an average of almost 6,500 and which keeps Scotlands college lecturers as the best paid in the UK. The employers offer would deliver substantial salary increases for staff, with the starting salary of a college lecturer rising to over 41,000 from September next year. Given the perilous state of the college sectors finances, further strikes from the EIS-FELA will not result in an improvement to the already substantial pay proposals from employers. Colleges strongly urge the EIS-FELA to call off these new strikes, and their resulting boycott, so as not to damage the chances of students at the start of their learner journey or those who are seeking to move on to positive destinations. A Scottish Government spokesperson said: Responsibility for these negotiations quite rightly rests with the National Joint Negotiating Committee. The Further Education Minister has engaged with both trade unions and college employers on multiple occasions to encourage progress towards a resolution of the dispute. The Scottish Government will continue this engagement as both parties work to reach a settlement which is fair and affordable. Police officers detain some far-right protesters after they tried to cross to the side of the opposing group in Plymouth Of all the factors contributing to the public disorder affecting the UK, the easiest part ought to be condemnation. Our leaders should have no trouble calling out any kind of criminality on the streets of Britain regardless of who is committing it. Youd think so, but no. Elton John might have sung that sorry seems to be the hardest word, but for some politicians, a simple this is wrong is proving much more complicated. The recent violence on our streets is inexcusable: thuggery, pure and simple. Destroying your local communities and attacking police officers is thuggery. Patriotic Brits do not smash up libraries and citizens advice bureaux, just as standing up for Palestine is no justification for targeting Jewish schools and neighbourhoods. Voicing reasonable concerns does not involve looting Lush. Not for the first time in British history, alongside peaceful protests and legitimate grievances are opportunistic career criminals hoping to bring violence to the streets. It is possible, indeed important, to hold serious concerns about mass migration and cohesion while believing that anyone smashing property and intimidating people has forfeited their right to a fair hearing. Those indulging in violence under the guise of concern for their community of whatever ethnic group are just thugs. Anyone trying to intellectualise or justify that thuggery is guilty of the same moral relativism as those who might explain away terrorism as an understandable reaction to Western foreign policy, or shoplifting as a rational response to austerity. Extraordinarily, however, such beliefs are widespread among our political and media establishments. This week Jess Phillips, a Birmingham MP, tweeted that a Muslim gang intimidating a Sky News reporter in the city was only there due to misinformation that racists were coming to attack them. The real blame, she implied, lay with Reform UK MP Richard Tice for sharing the footage in the first place (and thereby sowing division). Some would argue that a mob of masked men threatening a female journalist is pretty divisive in itself; perhaps more than the act of re-posting it. On such occasions we hear a lot about community tensions and the importance of not stirring them. But what about us female journalists? Are we not allowed to be part of the tense community? This bears repeating. To a government minister in the Home Office no less one violent group are poor, unfortunate, balaclava-clad souls who are mere victims of misinformation, whereas another deserves the full force of the law. This seems calculated to stoke grievances, reinforcing an increasingly provable perception that those in power are neither fair nor even-handed. It undermines rule of law, destroying attempts at containment or social cohesion. Even if the thugs had been somehow tricked into being there, it still wouldnt justify the intimidation of a female journalist. This amounts to an apologia for something for which there can be no apology. It must be called out. Phillips, a self-styled straight-talker and womens rights champion, has form in outrageous moral relativism. She previously likened the Cologne sex attacks of New Years Eve 2015/16 (when an estimated 1200 women were molested in a single night by recently-arrived migrants) to women being baited and heckled on an average night out in Birmingham. I certainly dont remember my weekly teenage nights out on Broad Street featuring industrial-scale sexual assault, but perhaps Jess knows something I dont. Elsewhere there remains a feeling that the problem is primarily one of optics or stage management. Sarah Edwards, the Labour MP for Tamworth, has been pilloried by her own side and even accused of indirectly causing riots by using her parliamentary platform to voice concerns about a migrant hotel in her constituency; as if looters and thugs typically take their lead from Hansard. In reality, had more MPs heeded their constituents reasonable fears then we might not be where we are today. You sense that some members of the commentariat are happier focusing on the evils of social media rather than anything else. The online world is rife with disinformation of all kinds, some inflammatory, but clumsy attempts to stage-manage the public debate will only embolden the cranks. Broadcast media isnt exactly covering itself in glory, either. The BBC cut off retired police chief Kevin Hurley mid-interview in a discussion of the riots, after he cited the stabbing of an army officer in Kent as a recent cause of tension. You dont have to agree with any particular viewpoint to see that closing down legitimate discussion will push people further towards the margins. Then there is the almost comic incident of the Home Secretary being interviewed by her own husband on this issue on Good Morning Britain. No wonder people are turning to social media when the mainstream appears to have so comprehensively undermined its reputation for impartiality. It also doesnt help that government figures have sometimes legitimised certain forms of thuggery when convenient. Many Gaza protests have displayed outrageous racism, regularly featuring in a mirror image of far-right riots Nazi salutes. The double-standards were on full view during the BLM mania of 2020, when the political class bent over backwards to justify mob violence in certain circumstances. Three days after a retired police captain was murdered during the riots in America, Sir Keir Starmer, then-leader of the opposition, released a statement condemning President Trumps reaction to these peaceful protests. Absent from his statement was any mention of far-Left thuggery and harsh police crackdowns, despite the chaos and vandalism apparent in cities on both sides of the Atlantic. I suspect that most people in government and the media know all this. They understand that Islamist-inspired street thuggery is as abhorrent as its far-right equivalent. But they fail to call it out as such for two reasons: one, it is not politically expedient, and two, because they are scared. Phillips almost lost her seat to a pro-Gaza candidate last month: her recent equivocation surely reflects these political realities. However, such apparent cowardice and calculation is not leadership. And it is leadership that this country desperately needs. Elon Musk was criticised by Downing Street on Monday for saying the UK was heading for civil war. Photograph: Gonzalo Fuentes/Reuters Elon Musk has called the prime minister two-tier Keir in reference to the conspiracy theory that police are treating white far-right protesters more harshly than minority groups. Downing Street would not engage again with the billionaire owner of X, having previously said his comments about a potential civil war in the UK had no justification. Since that criticism, Musk has been repeatedly targeting Keir Starmer on his social media platform. However, the Guardian understands Labour MPs have been privately warned not to engage in debate on Twitter about the far-right violence and to instead amplify calls for unity. In a letter to MPs from the chief whip Alan Campbell, he says it is important that you do not do anything that risks amplifying misinformation on social media and do not get drawn into debates online. The safeguarding minister Jess Phillips received criticism from Conservatives on Tuesday for saying a group of Muslim men who were seen shouting at members of the media were provoked by misinformation into believing the far-right would be present. Former home secretary James Cleverly said Phillips should think about the consequences of her words. But ministers have engaged robustly to dismiss suggestions of two-tier policing, including the justice secretary, Shabana Mahmood, and the courts minister Heidi Alexander. Musk has promoted the idea of different approaches to policing based on race that has been spread by Tommy Robinson and the Reform UK leader Nigel Farage amid a series of far-right riots across towns and cities in England and in Belfast. In a slew of tweets aimed at Starmer, Musk, who is one of the worlds richest men, also questioned whether the riots were taking place in Britain or the Soviet Union, in response to a video purporting to show someone being arrested for making offensive comments on Facebook. Musks provocative interventions come after Downing Street criticised him on Monday for posting that civil war is inevitable under a video of violent riots in Liverpool. Starmers spokesperson said on Monday the violence came from a small minority of people who do not speak for Britain and said the prime minister did not share the sentiments of Musk, who has previously been criticised for allowing far-right figures back on to his social media platform. Theres no justification for comments like that, the spokesperson said. What weve seen in this country is organised, violent thuggery that has no place, either on our streets or online. Were talking about a minority of thugs that do not speak for Britain, and in response to it, weve seen some of the best of our communities coming out and cleaning up the mess [and] the disruption of those that dont speak for our country, and weve seen the response for people that do speak for our country. I think you can tell from that that the prime minister does not share those sentiments. Responding to the theory of two-tier policing that is circulating on social media, ministers dismissed claims that groups were being treated differently by police. Mahmood posted on X on Tuesday: It doesnt matter who you are or what youre protesting if you turn up in a mask, with a weapon, intent on causing disorder, you will face the full force of the law. To those working with police and community organisations with pride and civic duty you are the best of us. On Monday, Farage condemned the rioting on the streets, saying the levels of intimidation and threat to life have no place in a functioning democracy. But he went on to claim there was a widespread impression of two-tier policing, which he said was contributing to a sense of injustice. In his letter to Labour MPs, the chief whip said MPs should be giving space on their social media to amplify what is best about your local communities and said they should be engaging in the community response, including with faith leaders. Calling it an immensely difficult time for local communities, Campbell stressed it was the job of MPs to help restore order and calm. Stressing that MPs should not get into online debate, Campbell said: What is happening is not a matter for debate, it is an issue of crime and disorder. Musk has growing sympathy for Donald Trump's views Elon Musk once said he preferred to stay out of politics. As with many things, it appears he has changed his mind. This week, Sir Keir Starmer was added to the lengthy list of people who have sparred with the billionaire over remarks he has made on X, the social media platform he owns. On Monday, Musk remarked on the rioting that has swept Britain in the wake of the Southport stabbings, warning that civil war is inevitable, drawing a rebuke from the Prime Ministers spokesperson. Yesterday, in an escalation of the row, he called Starmer two-tier Keir a pointed critique of the way the unrest has been policed. The interventions marked the latest and, in Britain at least, most public, staging post in Musks political transformation to date. A decade ago, the 53-year-old was a political moderate socially liberal and fiscally conservative - who donated to Barack Obamas Democratic Party. Even then, however, his views defied easy categorisation. Financial support for the Republicans flowed just as freely as it did for the Democrats. Musk was once a supporter of President Barack Obama (pictured in 2010 in Florida) But the Tesla founder no longer seems to be hedging his bets. Instead, he appears to have gone all in on Donald Trump who he has publicly endorsed as the next US leader. Musks shift to the Right has played out on Twitter, which he acquired in 2022 for $44 billion and swiftly renamed X as part of a broader reorganisation of the platform to prioritise free speech. He is a prolific and indiscriminate user himself, having posted nearly 50,000 times since joining it in 2009. In more recent times, Musk has arguably become the sites most prominent political commentator, with 193 million followers. The entrepreneurs Right-wing supporters hail him as a hero who has clawed back space for them online, having reinstated Trumps account. He separately unblocked the accounts of conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, Canadian psychologist and author Jordan Peterson, and the controversial influencer Andrew Tate. Among the group whose accounts were reinstated by Musk is the British agitator Tommy Robinson, who recently called Musk the best thing to happen for free speech this century. Musks identity shifted when he purchased Twitter, says Madeline Fry Schultz, an editor at the Washington Examiner. He became known not as this guy who was really into the environment and electric cars, but this culture wars figure. The point he is making is the culture wars pay people know they can get notoriety, podcast listens, and they will be popular on Twitter, for what its worth. Musk certainly has no shortage of strong views on the controversial issues of the day, usually expressed in a tweet-friendly 280 characters or less. Covid-19 lockdowns? Fascist. His transgender daughter? The victim of a woke mind virus. Diversity and inclusion policies? DEI [diversity, equity and inclusion] must DIE. President Joe Biden? Merely a tragic front for a far left political machine. And the traditional media? A propaganda machine. For all Musks previous insistence he wants to stay out of politics, there is now plenty of evidence to the contrary. His endorsement of Trump came after he said in 2016 that he doesnt seem to have the sort of character that reflects well on the United States, and in 2022 that the former Republican president should hang up his hat & sail into the sunset. Certainly, his political track record from the Obama administration onwards is capricious. In 2016, he supported Hillary Clinton and denounced Trump, yet in 2017 he donated large sums to Republican candidates: $50,000 to Kevin McCarthys McCarthy Victory Fund, and $39,600 to the National Republican Congressional Committee. In 2020, he said he voted for Biden, but made donations to both Republican and Democratic candidates. His support for Trump seems to be unwavering, however, at least for now Long before he publicly backed the former presidents re-election bid in July, the New York Times reported he was privately lobbying a group of conservative billionaires to vote for the 78-year-old. He has also branded Trumps hush money trial a corruption of the law and welcomed his choice of running mate, J.D. Vance, as an excellent choice. Musk has ben lobbying conservative billionaires to vote for Donald Trump (pictured in 2017) - AP The reasons for Musks shift seem to centre around a complex and interconnected set of factors, including tax policies pursued by Bidens White House, his rejection of woke culture and a wider political shift among some of Silicon Valleys most prominent venture capitalists, typically an overwhelmingly Democratic-supporting community. The owner of X, SpaceX, and Tesla has been openly critical of plans previously aired by Biden to impose a 25 per cent billionaire tax on Americans with assets of more than $100 million. In 2022, he complained that California used to be the land of opportunity, but had since become the land of taxes, overregulation and litigation. As his apparent frustration has grown, Musk has acted to relocate his business, moving SpaceX and Xs headquarters out of Californias liberal tech bubble. He said he had no choice but to move the latter from San Francisco, the city it has been based in for nearly two decades due to local legislation. In a nod to another issue he has been repeatedly vocal about, Musk said his decision to shift SpaceX to Texas was partly due to a recent policy introduced in California which prevents schools from requiring staff to share information about a childs gender identity with parents. This is the final straw, he tweeted. His largest companies may have a long history with San Francisco, but Musk has become one of the citys harshest critics. He has repeatedly spoken out about its rising crime rate, warning it has become post-apocalyptic, and overrun gangs of violent drug addicts. You could literally film a Walking Dead episode in downtown San Francisco, he has said. After the murder of tech executive Bob Lee last year, Musk tweeted: Many people I know have been severely assaulted Violent crime in San Francisco is horrific and even if attackers are caught, they are often released immediately. Since taking over X, Musk has also railed against woke culture. In an interview with Peterson earlier this year, the South African-born business mogul said he had been tricked into allowing his transgender daughter Vivian Jenna Wilson one of five children he shares with ex-wife Justine Wilson to access puberty blockers. Click here to view this content. He said she was dead, killed by the woke mind virus, and that what happened to his family was evil. His daughter, for her part, said in a court filing that she does not wish to be related to my biological father in any way, shape or form. But Musk has continued to speak out on the issue, saying the woke virus has infected not only his daughter but institutions and businesses ranging from Yale University to Netflix. Interventions in other policy areas, such as immigration, have also been a feature of his apparent political transformation. Musk has accused Biden of intentionally importing migrants to bolster the Democrats chance of winning the election a claim that has been dismissed by defenders of the US president as a baseless conspiracy theory. But, as with the riots in Britain, Musk hasnt limited his pronouncements to domestic matters alone. Even before he bought Twitter, he became a vocal critic of lockdown restrictions rolled out in the US and elsewhere during the COVID-19 pandemic. He re-opened Teslas factory in California in May 2020, disregarding the states lockdown order. He subsequently posted on X in favour of Canadian anti-vaccine protesters, writing: freedom is being stripped away one piece at a time until it is gone. He has also been outspoken on Russias war in Ukraine. Previously, he had supplied the war-torn nation with his Starlink high-speed internet technology, which became essential to its efforts to keep up communications after equipment and infrastructure was destroyed by Russian attacks. Now, Musk has increasingly come to sympathise with Republicans and other figures on the Right who oppose providing further aid to Kyiv. All of this has taken place against the backdrop of a wider shift within some Silicon Valley circles, where the Republicans and Trump in particular have made inroads in recent years, courting the likes of Peter Thiel, David O. Sacks and Ken Howery. Billionaires like PayPal founders Peter Thiel and Elon Musk (pictured in 2000) are part of a growing trend of pro-Trump techies - Paul Sakuma Perhaps that has made Musk more comfortable than ever in revealing his true sympathies. Certainly, as he has increasingly emerged as a central figure in this years presidential race, Trump has embraced his apparent conversion to his cause. I love Elon Musk, he told supporters at a rally last month. With Musk having long since abandoned his mantra to stay out of politics, it seems clear the feeling is mutual. Musk was contacted for comment via SpaceX. Modelling drawn up by NHS England suggests the action could heap huge pressure on hospitals and pharmacies Industrial action by GPs could push more than a million extra cases to Accident and Emergency departments, health service modelling shows. The documents from NHS England come as GP practices across the country begin capping the number of patients they deal with each day, in protest over funding of their contracts. Modelling drawn up by NHS England suggests the action could heap huge pressure on hospitals and pharmacies and cost more than half a billion pounds. One scenario, based on GPs cutting activity by 30 per cent, suggests it could mean 1.2 million extra attendances at A&E departments and 1.8 million more calls to NHS 111 over the next four months. Normally the NHS would expect around 9 million A&E attendances over four months. An extra 1.2 million cases over the next four months could mean the figure exceeds 10 million. Speaking on a visit to Leeds Cancer Centre, Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, urged family doctors to abandon work-to-rule measures, saying their action was unnecessary. He said: The risk with this collective action is that its not the Conservatives that are punished for their failure, its patients and other parts of the NHS [that] will be picking up the pieces. I urge GPs to work with the Government to rebuild general practice. The action follows a vote by the British Medical Association (BMA) which said it could continue for months. Wes Streeting says he wants to work with GPs to find a solution - WIKTOR SZYMANOWCZ/GETTY In addition, the action could see nearly 2 million more pharmacy visits, almost 500,000 cases undergoing hospital treatment, and more than 700,000 people turning up at urgent care centres. Meeting this demand could cost the health service 569 million, according to the modelling seen by Health Service Journal. Research suggests that a GP appointment costs the taxpayer around 40 per visit, while a visit to A&E can incur a cost of around 400. Mr Streeting has vowed to fix the front door of the NHS, saying that treating patients sooner, before they deteriorate, saved money as well as lives. Even if the action only cut activity by 10 per cent, it could mean almost 400,000 more A&E cases, and almost 250,000 extra hospital referrals, it suggests. The BMA has said doctors can pick and choose from measures designed to wreak chaos across the health service and bring the NHS to a standstill. They include a cap on the number of appointments, meaning practices could turn away record numbers of patients, heaping pressures on 111 and A&E. Family doctors are being asked to cap the number of daily patient contacts which includes face-to-face appointments, remote consultations and messages at 25 per GP. This is a third less than the normal workload. Health chiefs have already warned that such a move could prove catastrophic. Other measures include refusing to cooperate with standard NHS systems, such as those used to refer patients to hospital specialists, or to share data with local health planners. Last week, the BMA announced that GPs had voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action, with immediate effect. The union said 98.3 per cent of the 8,500 GPs voting backed the measures. It says it has embarked on collective action because they say the current system is underfunded. The impact of the measures would be a slow burn not a big bang as different surgeries will embark on different actions, the union added. But the Department of Health and Social Care said GPs had been balloted at the point when the GP contract was due to rise by 1.9 per cent, saying the pay uplift for 2024/25 would now be rising by 6 per cent. Mr Streeting said other parts of the NHS were being left to pick up the pieces as a result of collective action by family doctors. He said GP services had been driven into the ground by the previous government. But he added that Labour had shown serious intent to address the issues faced by family doctors. Mr Streeting said that he wanted to see an end to industrial action by GPs as he called for a serious professional partnership between family doctors and the Government. An NHS spokesperson said: The NHS has to plan for any contingencies to ensure services continue to be delivered and patients are kept safe. As collective action has only just started, its not clear yet what the system-wide impact is and we are monitoring the situation closely, including working with ICBs to undertake modelling, which will be updated once we have confirmed information. We are continuing to work with GPs, the BMA and the Government to resolve and end the action. Dr Katie Bramall-Stainer, chairman of the BMAs GP committee, said: Its not clear how NHS England has calculated these figures, but if they are accurate, 569 million would go an awfully long way to reverse years of funding erosion in the GP contract, which currently stands at 659 million. Its common sense that any projected cost associated with GPs taking collective action could be far better spent putting it into our services to begin with. Not only would that eliminate the need for any action, but also give GPs the means to provide high-quality care for their patients. Underinvestment in essential general practice services has got so bad that practices get just 30p a day for every patient thats registered with them not even the price of an apple. Because of this, practices cant give the standard of services they would like to; patients are waiting far too long for an appointment, we cant afford to hire the staff we need, and many surgeries have been forced to close entirely. Yahya Sinwar in Gaza City on 13 April 2022. Photograph: Ali Jadallah/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images Hamas has named Yahya Sinwar as the new head of its political bureau, elevating the hardline militant to the groups top post after the assassination in Tehran of its previous political leader. Sinwars appointment was announced in a brief statement by Hamas on Tuesday that was aired on pro-Hamas Iranian state media channels. Sinwar, the Hamas military leader who is seen as the mastermind behind the 7 October attack against Israel, is believed to be hiding in the series of tunnels underneath Gaza. He is the groups chief decision-maker in Gaza, and is believed to hold control over the estimated 120 Israeli hostages who are still in Hamass custody. Related: Yahya Sinwar: the man who may hold key to release of Gaza hostages Sinwar succeeds Ismail Haniyeh, the former Hamas political chief who was killed in a bombing attack last week that Hamas and Iranian officials blamed on Israel. The assassination came during the inauguration of Irans new president and has further stirred fears of a larger regional war involving Iran, which backs Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza. Iran has promised to retaliate against Israel for the attack on its soil. Haniyeh was another key figure in the talks between Israel and Hamas over a ceasefire, and was seen as an intermediary between Israel and Sinwar. Haniyeh had little direct control over Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip and was seen as a relative moderate, directing Hamass delegations in talks mediated by Egypt, Qatar and the US aimed at a ceasefire and hostage and prisoner release deal. Sinwar is a founding member of Hamas and is seen as the groups most powerful figure. A former head of the groups intelligence service, Sinwar spent 23 years in Israeli prisons as he served four life sentences for attempted murder and sabotage. A former interrogator called him 1,000% committed and 1,000% violent, a very, very hard man. Sinwar was released as part of a swap in which Israel traded 1,000 prisoners in 2011 in exchange for Gilad Shalit, an Israeli soldier who had been captured five years earlier by Hamas. Sinwar quickly returned to militancy and said he had concluded that capturing Israeli soldiers was the key to freeing prisoners from Israel. The move will further consolidate the group under Sinwar, whose elevation to the head of Hamass political wing will raise further doubts about the potential for any ceasefire deal to be struck in the conflict. Sinwar is believed to have launched the 7 October attack from Gaza without informing the political leadership, which was headquartered under Haniyeh in Qatar. In electing Sinwar to head Hamas, the organisation lays to rest any differences between external and internal leaders and whatever illusions of moderation existed to reveal its true face, wrote Aaron David Miller, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment. Israel claims it killed Hamass military commander, Mohammed Deif, in a strike in July, among a number of assassinations of key members of Hamass leadership. Another top political leader, Saleh al-Arouri, was killed in January. The policy of killing top Hamas leaders, including those from the more moderate political wing, has led to rising tensions between the US president, Joe Biden, and the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. Biden last week told Netanyahu during a phone call that the Israeli PM was intentionally sabotaging efforts to conclude a ceasefire, according to the New York Times and other US media. Netanyahu argued that the assassination in Teheran would temporarily delay negotiations, but would ultimately lead to a ceasefire more quickly by putting pressure on Hamas. Related: Assassination again shows Netanyahus disregard for US-Israel relations In reaction to Sinwars appointment, Israeli military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari told Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya televsion: There is only one place for Yahya Sinwar, and it is beside Mohammed Deif and the rest of the October 7th terrorists. That is the only place were preparing and intending for him. Speaking to Al Jazeera television after the announcement, Hamass spokesperson Osama Hamdan said Sinwar would continue the ceasefire negotiations. The problem in negotiations is not the change in Hamas, he said, blaming Israel and its ally the US for the failure to seal a deal. Israeli police check the site of a Hezbollah explosive drone attack near the northern city of Nahariya - AFP Hezbollah launched a series of drone strikes into northern Israel on Tuesday as it warned more was to come in its much-anticipated retaliation for the killing of a top commander last week. The Lebanese militant group claimed explosive-laden drones targeted a barracks near the city of Nahariya, while Israel reported several civilians were injured, one in serious condition, when a drone exploded on a road. The aerial attacks came after an earlier Israeli strike is said to have killed five Hezbollah fighters and destroyed a military structure near the southern Lebanese city of Nabatiyeh. Hezbollah has traded near-daily fire with Israel in support of its ally Hamas since Oct 7, but Jerusalem is bracing itself for greater escalation from both Hezbollah and Iran after the killings of senior militant leaders. As countries urge their citizens to get out of Lebanon, its government said on Tuesday is trying to prevent a Hezbollah response against Israel that could start a wider war. 03:31 PM BST Thats all for today Thanks for following our live coverage on the crisis in the Middle East. We will be back soon with more updates. 03:27 PM BST Israeli warplanes break sound barrier over Beirut Israeli warplanes flew low over the Lebanese capital Beirut on Tuesday, with witnesses saying they could see the planes with the naked eye and creating one of the largest sonic booms heard by residents in years. The flyovers and sonic booms took place minutes before Hezbollah head Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah was to begin an address to mark a week since military commander Fuad Shukr was killed in an Israeli strike in Beiruts southern suburbs. 03:16 PM BST Watch: Moment Iron Dome missile hits highway Footage has captured a projectile hitting a highway near the city of Nahariya in northern Israel on Tuesday morning. It was initially believed to be an explosive drone launched by Hezbollah, however Israels military have said it was caused by a Iron Dome interceptor missile missing its target and hitting the ground. Click here to view this content. 03:03 PM BST IDF says malfunctioning Iron Dome missile struck highway Israels military has said the impact on a highway in northern Israel, believed to have been caused by a Hezbollah drone, was actually an Iron Dome interceptor missile that malfunctioned. According to an initial investigation, it emerged that it was an interceptor that missed the target and impacted the ground, the Israel Defence Force (IDF) said in a statement. The missile impact wounded at least one person critically. Several Hezbollah drones did also impact the same area close to the city of Nahariya, medics said. Several hundreds of metres away, a woman was wounded by shrapnel, while another five people were lightly hurt by a blast in a separate location. The impact site of a projectile in northern Israel said to be an Iron Dome missile that backfired - Reuters 02:35 PM BST Iran planning two wave attack on Israel Irans anticipated revenge attack on Israel could come in two waves, US president Joe Biden has been warned by his security chiefs. The first is likely to come from Lebanons Hezbollah and then a second from Iran and its regional proxies, US officials briefed on the matter told Axios. Mr Biden was also told on Monday that it was still unclear when Iran and Hezbollah might launch their expected assaults and what they might entail. Tehran has said it has a legal right to punish Israel in the wake of back-to-back assassinations last week of Ismail Haniyeh, Hamass political chief in Tehran, and a top Hezbollah commander in Beirut. Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, said an attack would be imminent on Sunday night, but Israel is still bracing for Irans retaliation which risks dragging the Middle East into a broader war. A banner of Ismail Haniyeh (left), Hamas's slain political head, with Iran's new president Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran, Iran - Anadolu 02:27 PM BST Japan tells citizens to get out of Israel Japans foreign ministry urged its citizens not to visit Israel in a new travel alert on Tuesday, citing rising tensions in the Middle East. On Monday, the ministry urged Japanese nationals in Lebanon to leave. 02:09 PM BST UK Government ready and prepared for Middle East escalation The Government is ready and prepared should tensions further escalate in the Middle East, David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, told Tuesdays Cabinet meeting. A Cabinet readout said: Turning to the Middle East, the Foreign Secretary updated on the rising tensions across the region and said that the Governments focus was around encouraging de-escalation. He made clear that the Government stood ready and prepared should the situation deteriorate. 01:31 PM BST Israeli rights group says Palestinian prisoners subject to systematic abuse Israel has conducted a systematic policy of prisoner abuse and torture since the start of the Gaza war, subjecting Palestinian detainees to acts ranging from arbitrary violence to sexual abuse, according to a new report. It research by Israeli rights group BTselem, was based on interviews with 55 Palestinians from Gaza, the West Bank and Israel detained in Israeli prisons since Hamass Oct 7 attack, most of them without being tried. The testimonies clearly indicate a systematic, institutional policy focused on the continual abuse and torture of all Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, the report said. The Israeli military, which runs some detention facilities where Palestinian prisoners have been held, said that it operated according to the rule of law and any specific claims of abuse were investigated. Palestinian prisoners, detained by the Israeli army, are taken hospital in Gaza after their release - Anadolu Israeli soldiers gather at the gate to Sde Teiman detention camp which has faced accusations for months over the abuse of Palestinian prisoners - AP 12:47 PM BST Iraq condemns reckless attack on US troops Iraqs military has condemned the reckless actions against military bases on its soil, a day after at least five US personnel were wounded in an attack amid an escalation of Middle East conflict. We reject all reckless actions and practices targeting Iraqi bases, diplomatic missions, and the whereabouts of the international coalitions advisers, and everything that would raise tension in the region, the Iraqi military statement said on Tuesday. It added that they had captured a truck with a rocket launcher, likely to be the weapon used against the US Ain al Asad airbase in western Iraq. Ain al Asad Air Base in western Iraq, which houses US troops, was attacked late Monday, injuring at least five Americans Ain al Asad Air Base in western Iraq, which houses US troops, was attacked late Monday, injuring at least five Americans - AFP 12:41 PM BST Appalling that nine UNRWA staff may have been involved in Oct 7 - Foreign Office It is appalling that nine members of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) may have been involved in the Oct 7 attacks, a UK Foreign Office spokesperson told The Telegraph. Their statement follows a finding by the UNs Office of Internal Oversight Services that out of 19 staff allegedly involved in the attacks there was sufficient evidence to suggest nine may have been involved. The spokesperson said on Tuesday: Its appalling that nine members of UNRWA may have been involved in the October 7th atrocities. We welcome UNRWAs decisive action and support their decision to terminate the contracts of these individuals. Anyone who participated in the horrific October 7 attacks should face the full force of the law. Workers from the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) inspect the site of an Israeli airstrike in July - Anadolu 12:13 PM BST Netanyahu at odds with security chiefs - report Benjamin Netanyahu is said to be sharply at odds with his security chiefs over a potential agreement to end the fighting in Gaza. The Israeli prime minister has been hardening his position in recent weeks during the ongoing talks with Hamas brokered by the US, Egypt and Qatar, which is putting at risk a possible ceasefire and hostage release deal. There are differences of opinion between Mr Netanyahu and his top security chiefs over the positives aspects of the deal, one person familiar with Israeli deliberations told the Financial Times. At the moment all the security officials think that there is no impediment [for Israel] to achieve a deal, but Netanyahu has to agree, the source added. Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel's prime minister, is pictured with Israeli president Isaac Herzog on August 4 - Reuters 11:39 AM BST Hezbollah fires drones at northern Israel, injuring four Lebanons armed group Hezbollah said it launched a swarm of attack drones against military targets in northern Israel on Tuesday. Israeli media reported four civilians have been injured, one critically. Footage has shown a drone making impact on a road in the town of Mazraa in Western Galilee. A source within Hezbollah said the drone strike was not in retaliation for Israels killing of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut last week. . : 27' pic.twitter.com/Ij87eH7CUC - N12 (@N12News) August 6, 2024 11:16 AM BST Russia sends air defences to Iran Russia is delivering advanced air defence systems and radar equipment to Iran in preparation for a major escalation with Israel. The move came after Tehran requested more arms from its ally, Iranian officials told The New York Times, following a visit from a senior ally of Vladimir Putin on Monday. Sergei Shoigu, the secretary of Russias security council, met with Irans president and top security officials as the Islamic Republic weighs its response to the killing of a Hamas leader. We are ready to cooperate fully with Iran in various areas, Mr Shoigu said. Moscow has grown closer to Tehran since the war in Ukraine. Masoud Pezeshkian, Irans president, thanked Moscow for standing by Tehran in difficult times and said he was determined to expand relations with his strategic partner. Gen. Mohammad Hossein Bagheri (right), Iran's armed forces chief, shakes hands with Sergei Shoigu, secretary of Russia's security council, during their meeting in Tehran - Public relation of the General Staff of Iran's Armed Forces 10:59 AM BST US working around the clock to prevent war The US said it was working around the clock to avert an all-out war in the Middle East, as Israel remained on high alert Tuesday for potential Iranian retaliation for two high-profile killings. Joe Biden, whose country has sent extra warships and fighter jets to the region in support of Israel, held crisis talks on Monday with his national security team. Mr Bidens top diplomat Antony Blinken said Washington was engaged in intense diplomacy, pretty much around the clock to help calm tensions. President Biden's security chiefs say they do not know when Iran's attack on Israel will come and what it might entail - Shutterstock 10:22 AM BST Lebanon tries to prevent Hezbollah attack on Israel Lebanons government is trying to prevent a Hezbollah response against Israel that could start a wider war, Lebanons foreign minister Abdallah Bou Habib said on Tuesday during a press conference with his Egyptian counterpart. 10:12 AM BST Israeli strike kills four Hezbollah militants in Lebanon An Israeli strike on a home in the southern Lebanese town of Mayfadoun on Tuesday killed four people, medical and security sources said. A Lebanese security source said they were all Hezbollah fighters. Although most of the exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and the Israeli military have been limited to the border area, Mayfadoun lies nearly 19 miles north of Lebanons border with Israel. | : "" pic.twitter.com/oP1VCtYeLE (@TVManar1) August 6, 2024 10:03 AM BST Eight killed in two Israeli raids in West Bank, officials say Palestinian officials said Israeli forces killed eight people in two separate raids in the northern West Bank on Tuesday, as the erupting violence in the occupied territory showed no sign of abating. Four people were killed in the Jenin area and four in Tubas district when Israeli forces carried out early morning raids, the Palestinian Red Crescent and the health ministry in Ramallah said. The Israeli army reported its aircraft struck armed terrorist cells in the Jenin area, but did not give details on casualties. 09:34 AM BST South Korea urges its citizens to leave Lebanon and Israel South Korea joined a host of other countries as it strongly advised its nationals in Lebanon and Israel to leave as soon as possible because of escalating tensions in the Middle East. South Koreas government...hopes that diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions such as negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release will not stop, Lee Jae-woong, a ministry spokesperson said on Tuesday. 09:00 AM BST US pushes countries to calm Iran The US has been urging other countries through diplomatic channels to tell Iran that escalation in the Middle East is not in their interest, a State Department spokesperson said late on Monday. The comments come after Antony Blinken, US secretary of state, called it critical moment for the region. All parties must refrain from escalation, Mr Blinken said. Escalation is not in anyones interests. It will only lead to more conflict, more violence, more insecurity. 08:41 AM BST Israel says it killed Hamas militant in charge of weapons smuggling Israels military said it has killed dozens of Hamas militants over the past day, including the officer in charges of smuggling weapons into the Gaza Strip in an airstrike last night. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Muhammad Mahasna mainly coordinated maritime smuggling, but also dealt with getting arms through cross-border tunnels and land crossings. , >> pic.twitter.com/VoQatFSZBa (@idfonline) August 6, 2024 08:22 AM BST China tells citizens in Lebanon to travel with caution Chinas embassy in Beirut urged citizens to travel with caution should they visit Lebanon, warning they face higher security risks as fears of a regional conflict soar. In a statement issued on Monday evening, the embassy warned citizens the situation in the country was grave and complex. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy in Lebanon remind Chinese citizens to closely monitor the evolution of the local situation and to travel with caution in Lebanon in the near future, it warned. 08:08 AM BST Palestinian president: Haniyeh killing was to prolong Gaza war The killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was intended to prolong the Gaza conflict, Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian president told Russias state news agency. RIA, citing a diplomatic source, said that Mr Abbas will come on the long-expected visit to Moscow on Aug 12-14 for talks with Vladimir Putin. Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, was assassinated in the Iranian capital Tehran last week, in an attack that drew threats of revenge on Israel and fuelled concern that the conflict in Gaza was turning into a wider Middle East war. Mr Abbas branded Haniyehs assassination a cowardly act and a dangerous development in Israeli politics. There is no doubt that the purpose of Mr. Haniyehs assassination is to prolong the war and expand its scope, he added. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas (right) meets Joe Biden, US president, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank in 2022 - Reuters 07:50 AM BST Five US troops wounded in rocket attack in Iraq At least five American personnel were injured in an attack against a military base in Iraq on Monday. Two Katyusha rockets were fired at Ain al Asad airbase in western Iraq, two Iraqi security sources said. One Iraqi security source said the rockets fell inside the base. It is still unclear whether the attack was linked to threats by Iran to retaliate over the killing of the Hamas leader as the Middle East teeters on the edge of a wider war. US officials said one of the wounded Americans was seriously injured. The casualty count was based on initial reports which could still change, they said. Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment, one official added. Read more on the attack here. Ain al Asad Air Base in western Iraq, which houses US troops, was attacked late Monday, injuring at least five Americans - AFP 07:38 AM BST Israeli raid in West Bank kills four Palestinians An Israeli military raid in the occupied West Bank killed four Palestinians, including three teenagers, and wounded another seven, local officials said. The raid was carried out overnight in the village of Aqaaba in the northern West Bank. Those killed included two 19-year-olds and a 14-year-old, the Palestinian health ministry said on Tuesday. Separately, the Islamic Jihad militant group reported heavy fighting with the army in the Jenin refugee camp in the northern West Bank, a frequent flashpoint. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. Israel has carried out near-daily military raids across the West Bank since Hamass Oct 7 attack out of Gaza triggered the ongoing war there. Palestinians from the West Bank have also carried out a number of attacks on Israelis. 07:32 AM BST Hello and welcome to our live coverage Were bringing you all the latest from the crisis in the Middle East as Israel braces for a retaliatory response by Iran. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah warned Israel to prepare for any scenario as the Middle East braced for Iran and the Lebanese group of militants to respond to the killing of a high-profile Hamas figure in Tehran last week. Israel used to down our drones when they were still above Lebanese land, Nasrallah said, adding that now the devices reach the city of Acre in northern Israel. The military operations will continue. Residents of the Haifa area should prepare for any scenario, Nasrallah said, referring to the largest city in northern Israel. He spoke out during a televised address on Tuesday to mark a memorial ceremony one week since the killing of senior commander Fuad Shukr, in Beiruts southern suburbs. Crowds also took to the streets to vent their anger at Israel. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah gives a televised address praising senior commander Fuad Shukr, killed in Beirut a week ago - Al-Manar TV/Reuters Hezbollah launched drones at Acre and the area of Nahariya, leaving 19 wounded. The Israel Defense Forces admitted that an intercepting rocket from its air defence system missed its target and fell in the area where civilians were hurt. The drone attack came after Israel killed five members of Hezbollah in Maifadoun in southern Lebanon. Israeli police and officials at the scene of Hezbollah projectile impacts in Nahariya, northern Israel - Rami Shlush/Reuters It comes after Mossad agents in Iran detonated an explosive device in the bedroom of Ismail Haniyeh, the Hamas leader, which had been planted months earlier, it was reported. Nasrallah also admitted that the nerve-racking anticipation of the attack from Iran and Hezbollah is part of the response. The goal is that the waiting will exhaust Israel and all its resources. He went on: The decision has been made, and we have the ability, but it wont happen fast but slowly. Yoav Gallant, Israels defence minister, spoke with Lloyd Austin, his American counterpart, as well as Michael Erik Kurilla, the chief of the United States Central Command, who visited Israel on Monday, saying that they are determined to support and work together. Protesters at the memorial ceremony for Shukr, killed in an Israeli strike in Beirut on July 30 - Wael Hamzeh/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Crowds in Beirut grieving at the loss of Shukr and showing their anger at israel - Alkis Konstantinidis/Reuters Abdallah Bou Habib, Lebanons foreign minister, said the government was working with Hezbollah to prevent any reaction that would lead to a wider war. Meanwhile, two Iranian officials told The New York Times that Russia is providing Iran with air defence systems for a possible war with Israel, saying deliveries of advanced radar and air defence equipment had already started arriving, as the Islamic republic braced itself to attack. As the IDF remained on high alert for Iran and Hezbollah to follow through on their threats to punish Israel, several US personnel were injured in a rocket attack on an airbase in Iraq, which the Pentagon blamed an Iranian-backed militia group for, calling it a dangerous escalation. Both the US and UK continued to call for restraint from all parties in the Middle East, with David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, saying that the Government is ready and prepared should tensions further escalate. Turning to the Middle East, the Foreign Secretary updated on the rising tensions across the region and said that the Governments focus was around encouraging de-escalation, a readout from the Cabinet meeting said. Click here to view this content. 'Scotch whisky is in more peril than it's ever been,' says Dawn Davis, speciality drinks buyer for The Whisky Exchange Click here to skip to the results of the tasting competition In 1976 British wine merchant Steven Spurrier gathered 11 of the worlds top tasting judges for an extraordinary competition in Paris. A series of blind tests would pit French wines against their Californian equivalents. Though the American wines had been celebrated in some quarters, they were largely seen as upstarts, with the French entirely dominant at the time. The Judgement Of Paris, as it came to be known, would rip up the rulebook and see America triumph, setting the course for Californias Napa Valley to become one of the worlds top wine regions. The competition was on the mind of Craig Harper, on-trade manager of mixer brand Fever-Tree, when he got into a discussion with colleagues about the worlds best whisky. Surely youd think Scotch, due to the immense heritage, Harper, himself a proud Scotsman, explains. But then I was thinking about highballs, which is my favourite way to drink whisky, and in those cases Id choose a Japanese whisky, so which actually was the best? The competition took place at one of Scotland's best-stocked whisky pubs Gathered in an upper floor room of The Pot Still, one of Scotlands best-stocked whisky pubs, Harper has gathered a team of the UKs foremost whisky experts for the Judgement of Glasgow. The format is simple each of the five judges (whisky writer Dave Broom; head buyer at The Whisky Exchange, Dawn Davis; Georgie Bell, owner of The Heart Cut; Ryan Mr Lyan Chetiyawardana, founder of Lyaness; and Tristan Stephenson, founder of The Curious Bartender), will taste 10 drams of whisky: five Scotch, five Japanese, though they wont know which is which. Five categories have been chosen: a single malt costing under 100; a single malt over 100; a blended whisky; a whisky served in a highball with soda water; and a wildcard choice. Japanese whiskies are comparable to Scotch in a way that American or Irish whiskeys arent, because the style of Japanese whisky distillation is modelled after the Scottish method, explains Samuel Page, the head bartender of restaurant chain Sexy Fish which owns the worlds largest collection of Japanese whisky, and who has selected the entries from Japan. Masataka Taketsuru, the father of Japanese whisky, did his apprenticeship and learned how to make whisky in Scotland, so everything is initially modelled after Scotch. 'Every round had us debating', says whisky writer Dave Broom of the competition At the same time, its different. Japanese whisky isnt bogged down by rules in the same way Scotch is. They can use a lot of different techniques in making it, so there are elements of American and Irish whiskeys in there too. Plus, the climate in Japan is very different which has an impact on the taste. Up against Page is Frank Murphy, proprietor of The Pot Still, who has selected the Scottish competitors from the pubs eligible and award-winning collection. This competition comes at a potentially precarious time for Scotch whisky. The heritage spirit has long held its place as the drink of choice for connoisseurs, with exports reaching 5.6bn in 2023 the equivalent of 43 bottles sold every second. However, the Japanese whisky industry was worth just over 3bn in Japan as of 2022, with analysts suggesting itll reach 7.2bn by 2032. As it stands, whisky exports from Japan are a small percentage of the total market, but increasing, especially in China. The UK's foremost whisky experts gathered at The Pot Still for the Judgement of Glasgow Japanese whisky distillation has been growing since its inception in the 1920s, but through the 20th-century, its market was purely domestic. That all changed in 2001 when a prominent whisky magazine named the Nikka Distillerys 10 Year Old Yoichi the worlds best single malt. Suddenly interest in Japanese whisky exploded, with rare and old bottles selling at auction for hundreds of thousands of pounds while the House of Suntory capitalised on the boom, creating more entry-level blended whiskies such as Toki. Scotch whisky is in more peril than its ever been, says Dawn Davis, speciality drinks buyer for The Whisky Exchange. There are too many people who look at it from a marketing perspective, and too few who celebrate the craft and the people behind the whisky. I dont think the next generation is coming through. Where are the Dr Bill Lumsdens [head of distilling at Glenmorangie who applied his biochemistry background to Scotch]? Where are the Richard Patersons [master distiller and curator at The Dalmore]? The countries who are less known for whisky France, Australia, New Zealand, the Nordics are fighting harder for places at the table, just like Japanese whisky has done for 20 years. They could finish off Scotch if the industry isnt careful. For the single malts over 100, the debate lasts twice as long but again, its a 3:2 win for Japan. In the blended category, things go the other way and Scotland clinches a win with a score of 3:2. Click here to view this content. The longest debate occurs for the wildcard round where the rich and flavoursome Whyte & Mackay from Glasgow is up against Hanyu #1386 Isetan from the outskirts of Tokyo. The former is all marzipan, dark fruits and demerara sugar, while its Japanese rival is sunny and complex with tropical fruit notes. Both are stunningly drinkable, exquisite whisky, declares Bell. The judges deliberate for a full half hour, with one award-winning whisky writer Dave Broom refusing point blank to choose between them. Eventually, the comforting Scotch takes the win 3:1. With everything to play for, the competition closes with the highball round. Ultimately, this would always favour the more delicate, complex Japanese whisky, which is often designed to be watered down and consumed with soda. There are no surprises. Japan takes it 5:0 and is declared the overall winner. Though it was a narrow victory for Japan, Broom argues that both countries have proved conclusively why theyre still on top of the whisky hierarchy. I am not a fan of competitions, Broom explains. I liked the setup of this one, where we had an expert from each camp put their best feet forward and we got to pick. It wasnt about which was inherently better, just which one worked for us. And it could have gone either way. Every round had us debating. We all thought they were great. The Japanese moved off in one direction, the Scotch went in another, but both were great. That, for me, was the joy of this. We got to see both countries at their best and both acquitted themselves admirably. The judgement, though, was final: if you want a great whisky, look to the East. Japan vs Scotland Judgement of Glasgow whisky competition Click here to view this content. Back to top The Judgement of Glasgow was organised by Fever-Tree and hosted by The Pot Still, which provided the Scottish whiskies. Sexy Fish provided the Japanese whiskies. Police act during trouble in Plymouth on Monday amid fears of a far-right threat to immigration advice centres. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images Immigration lawyers have been warned to take extra security measures or stay away from work amid far-right threats to target their firms, with legal groups blaming political attacks on the profession for fuelling abuse. The Law Society and Immigration Law Practitioners Association (ILPA) said their members were at risk, after a list of up to 60 immigration advice centres was circulated on Telegram with a message suggesting they should be the target of protests on Wednesday. Several prominent lawyers said the political rhetoric of Conservative politicians over the years, from Boris Johnson to Suella Braverman demonising lefty lawyers for working on asylum cases, had contributed to the far-right threat. After a week of violent disorder in areas across England and Northern Ireland, police chiefs said on Tuesday that an extra 2,200 riot-trained officers would be deployed to combat the unrest. Keir Starmer held another Cobra meeting to coordinate the governments response with police chiefs, while Stephen Parkinson, the director of public prosecutions, said some of those causing the violent disorder could be charged with terrorism offences. Violence so far has targeted mosques, community buildings such as libraries, hotels housing asylum seekers, and shops. But attention turned to immigration law and advice centres after a list of up to 60 of them was circulated this week. Some of the addresses on the list were later found to be wrong with one occupied by an elderly woman. Politicians such as Labour MPs Stella Creasy and Sarah Sackman raised concerns over centres being named in their constituencies of Walthamstow and Finchley in London, saying they were in touch with police about the safety of residents. The Community Security Trust, which monitors and investigates antisemitism in Britain, has also warned that the Jewish community might be targeted and raised concerns over attacks. The Law Society of England and Wales has written to Starmer and Shabana Mahmood, the justice secretary, warning that a direct assault on our legal profession is a direct assault on our democratic values. Its president, Nick Emmerson, saidthat immigration lawyers were providing an accessible service and were frightened about a very real frontline threat. There is an atmosphere of intimidation that has gone beyond this list. This list itself is gaining momentum but people who give immigration advice are at risk, he said. He said political attacks on lawyers under the previous government had contributed to the atmosphere of intimidation, and that the current threat was an extension of that, and it is a physical manifestation of that. Who knows if it is going to last more than one day? People are being asked to mask up on one day. Thats distressing enough but if this is a way of doing business going forward that is not sustainable. This fundamentally should not be happening at all, he said. Mahmood, the lord chancellor, said: Every day, across the country, solicitors uphold the rule of law. Inciting mobs to attack their offices, or threatening them in any way, is unacceptable. Those found doing so will face the full force of the law. They will join the hundreds of others who have already been arrested by police within the last week. Dominic Grieve, a former Conservative attorney general, said: Im afraid that immigration lawyers being targeted does suggest to me this is one of the consequences of politicians having attacked them in the past I think it would be a very good thing to do to say lawyers uphold the rule of law. Jacqueline McKenzie, a lawyer for Leigh Day, who was previously the target of a Tory dossier attacking her work for migrant clients, said the political attacks on immigration lawyers had put them at risk. It all started with the attacks on lefty lawyers to bring us into the fray has put a target on our backs, she said. Starmer, she said, should do more to counter the toxic narrative around immigration and that the current response had been mealy mouthed from the government. Governments are just going to keep on making the same mistakes; allowing people to attribute all problems to migrants will fuel a race war, and put all black and brown people, not just immigration lawyers, at risk, McKenzie said. Hazar El-Chamaa, the chair of trustees at the ILPA, said the group stood in solidarity with migrants and called on the government to support lawyers performing their professional duties by representing and upholding the human rights of migrants and those targeted based on their appearance, without fear for our safety. Where our security is threatened as a result of carrying out our essential and proper function in a democracy, the government and law enforcement agencies should investigate and monitor threats to our safety, he said. We urge Sir Keir Starmers government to take urgent steps to bring an end to the violence and to foster a society which welcomes and cares for our communities and all those in need of protection. We call on the government to stand with us. Police chiefs have decided to dramatically increase the number of riot officers deployed, after violence over the weekend continued on Monday and Tuesday. Related: An activist blob: Tory party attacks on lawyers a timeline They are also braced for potentially 30 different demonstrations planned for Wednesday, and are assessing the credibility of an online document listing targets, many of which are connected to immigration and asylum. Almost 4,000 riot officers have already been deployed across England and Wales. Some faced violence in their own force area, and some were sent to help out other forces that were under strain over the weekend. Yvette Cooper, the home secretary, told chief constables in a call on Tuesday that their forces would receive support for overtime pay and any other resources they required when dealing with public disorder In total there are 18,000 specially trained public order or riot officers in England and Wales. The decision to increase the number deployed means 30% of the total will be deployed. A police source said the number would be adjusted up or down, as the situation developed. Preparations were under way to deal with more potential trouble later on Tuesday and on Wednesday. After the Cobra meeting on Tuesday evening, Starmer said 400 people have been arrested and 100 have been charged, some in relation to online activity. Im now expecting substantive sentencing before the end of this week, he said. That should send a very powerful message to anybody involved, either directly or online, that you are likely to be dealt with within a week, and that nobody but nobody should be involving themselves in this disorder. Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform, has been criticised for questioning whether the police were being transparent about the murder of three girls in Southport, after the suspect was wrongly named on social media as a Muslim migrant. A Cardiff-born 17-year-old was later charged. However, anti-migrant riots spread from Southport over the following week. On Tuesday, Farage insisted he had nothing to do with any form of street violence now or at any point in his career and claimed the riots after the Southport murders were as bad as they were because we werent told the truth by the police. He claimed the level of incitement against me has led to a huge increase in my security uptick. The Reform MP for Clacton told LBC there were stories online from some very prominent folks with big followings, Andrew Tate etc. suggesting the man [attacker] had crossed the English [sic] Channel in a boat in October 2023, other suggestions that he was an active Muslim and much of this led to the riots we saw. There were thousands of fake reports everywhere I didnt believe any of it, he said before insisting he posed a legitimate question. Jordan Parlour, 28, appeared at Leeds Magistrates' Court on Tuesday - UNPIXS The first person to be charged with intending to stir up racial hatred relating to alleged posts on Facebook has pleaded guilty. Jordan Parlour, 28, appeared at Leeds Magistrates Court on Tuesday, where he admitted to posting on the social media platform between Aug 1 and Aug 5 in connection with violent disorder across the country. Around 400 people attended a protest in Leeds City Centre on Saturday. One arrest was made, according to West Yorkshire Police. An HM Courts and Tribunals Service spokesman said Parlour had been sent to Leeds Crown Court for a sentencing hearing on Friday. The Crown Prosecution Service said the charge against him was threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour intending thereby to stir up racial hatred, or where having regard to all the circumstances, racial hatred is likely to be stirred up thereby, contrary to section 19(1) of the Public Order Act 1986. Nick Price, the director of legal services at the CPS, said: We have authorised West Yorkshire Police to charge Jordan Parlour, 28, with using threatening words or behaviour intending to stir up racial hatred. The charge relates to alleged Facebook posts between Aug 1 and Aug 5 in connection with the violent public disorder across the UK. Parlour, of Seacroft, Leeds, was remanded into custody ahead of his sentencing hearing, the HM Courts and Tribunals Service spokesman said. On Monday, UK unrest entered its seventh day, with violence in Plymouth, Birmingham, Belfast and Darlington. In the past week, there have been incidents in Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Belfast, Stoke-on-Trent, Hull, Bristol, Southport and Rotherham. The violence broke out after a knife attack that left three young girls dead and others injured in Southport last Monday. Axel Muganwa Rudakubana has been charged with three counts of murder and 10 counts of attempted murder. In the disorder that has followed, more than 420 people have been arrested, police officers have been injured and mosques have been targeted. Alexei Smirnov, acting governor of the Kursk region said Russian soldiers had repelled the Ukraininan attack on Sudzha and three Russian civilian had been killed. Photograph: Governor of Kursk Region/AFP/Getty Images Moscow has said about 300 soldiers from Ukraine launched a cross-border attack into a hitherto quiet part of the front on Tuesday, with reports of fighting at a town as deep as six miles (10km) inside Russia. Moscows ministry of defence said late on Tuesday that up to 300 Ukrainian militants from Ukraines 22nd mechanised brigade launched the attack at 8am, supported by 11 tanks and more than 20 armoured fighting vehicles. Fighting took place throughout the day between the border villages of Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya in the Kursk region, and as far inside Russia as the fringes of Sudzha, 10km from the frontline where two strikes on Russian trailers loaded with tanks were photographed from overhead. Though Russia said it had repelled the incursion, reports from Russian military bloggers and imagery on social media indicated that the Ukrainian attack was substantial, though it was unclear how far it could be sustained. Rybar, a popular Russian military blogger, said that on Tuesday evening the situation in the Kursk region remained tense with battles taking place in border districts. Judging by the latest footage, Ukrainian formations have managed to advance, the blogger wrote. That contrasted with the initial statement from Moscows defence ministry, which claimed to have repelled the attack. After suffering losses, the Ukrainian sabotage group retreated to its territory, while some of the fighters tried to gain a foothold directly on the territory adjacent to the state border, where they were blocked by Russian army units, the ministry said in a statement. Ukraines political leaders and the Ministry of Defence did not immediately comment on the situation, but one junior official did acknowledge the attack was taking place, and indicated it had not been defeated. Related: Everything is a target: Dnipro suffers consequences of Russias bloody war Andrii Kovalenko, the head of an anti-disinformation department at Ukraines National Security and Defense Council, said that Russian soldiers are lying about the controllability of the situation in the Kursk region. Russia does not control the border. The attacks purpose could be an attempt by Ukraine, whose defences are stretched, to divert some Russian forces to defend a part of the frontline that has been largely inactive since spring 2022 and also boost morale at home. However, critics in Ukraine argue that such assaults serve no long-term military purpose. Anti-Kremlin Russian groups launched attacks from Ukraine into Belgorod and Kursk regions in March, but were repelled for no strategic gain. Earlier on Tuesday, Alexei Smirnov, acting governor of the Kursk region, said Russian soldiers and FSB forces had repelled the Ukrainian attack and three Russian civilians had been killed and 18 others were wounded. Russia said it had launched airstrikes on Ukrainian armour and reserve forces had been moved to shore up the frontline and it had destroyed 16 armoured units belonging to the invaders, including six tanks. Losses on either side could not be verified and initial battlefield casualty reports often turn out to be exaggerations. Indian officials in London had requested the return of the 11th-century sculpture from the University of Oxford's Ashmolean Museum - Andrew Paterson/Alamy Oxford will keep a medieval statue requested by India because no museums would claim the artefact despite a campaign to repatriate lost treasures. As part of a diplomatic push to return antiquities to the sub-continent, Indian officials in London requested the return of an 11th-century sculpture from the University of Oxfords Ashmolean Museum. However, Oxford will retain the votive statue of Shiva because no Indian institution would claim it, or could provide proof that it had been stolen from them in the first place. Return deals require a clear final destination for repatriated artefacts, typically a museum of the temple or archaeological site they were taken from. The Council of the University of Oxford, the body which leads the institution, subsequently rejected a formal claim from the High Commission of India to return the statue as there was no evidence to support the works previous ownership or its possible theft. The case has raised questions among some antiquities experts as the object appeared to have been held in an Indian museum as recently as the 1980s. There is some confusion as to how the statue could have left a collection and entered the antiquities market, before ultimately ending up in Oxford. Broader campaign to reclaim religious objects The failed effort to secure the small devotional statue of the Hindu deity Shiva comes as part of a broader campaign to reclaim religious objects, including votive statues or murti, along with other artefacts bound up with the history of India, that were seemingly stolen by, or removed under British rule. In June, it emerged that Oxford had agreed to the return of a 500-year-old sculpture of Hindu holy man Tirumankai Alvar, alleged to have been stolen from a temple in southern India. This object did have an intended final location, the temple of Sri Soundararaja Perumal, Tamil Nadu, in southern India, and so its repatriation was signed off by university leadership. In 2023, the first repatriation of objects from the UK to India was agreed when the Glasgow Life museum group in Scotland signed off on the return of objects including a 14th-century sword. It was revealed in May 2023 that this move was part of a broader diplomatic plan signed off from the top of the Indian government to push for the return of artefacts. This plan was to begin with low-hanging fruit, which included recently stolen artefacts which would be more easily claimed under modern conventions, or artefacts held in small or private collections which could be more flexible with return deals. Sources in New Delhi told The Telegraph that this plan would expand to encompass artefacts held in national museums like the British Museum, with many insiders stating that the Koh-i-Noor diamond would be the ultimate goal and symbol of repatriation efforts. Phoday Jarjussey was a speechwriter for the long-serving Gambian president Dawda Jawara Photograph: Provided by friend My friend Phoday Jarjussey, who has died aged 76, was a civil servant in the Gambia who fled to the UK after a military coup in the mid-1990s, after which he made a new life in London, where for many years he was a full-time Labour party councillor. Phoday was born in Sukuta in the Gambia to Mba (nee Bojang), a farmer, and her husband, Saikouba Jarjussey, chief of the settlement of Jarra Soma, which Phoday always regarded as his home. After secondary school at Armitage high school in Janjanbureh, and later, St Augustines high school and Gambia high school, both in Banjul, in 1968 he left for the UK to study for a degree in history at York University. On graduating, Phoday returned to the Gambia, initially working as a history teacher and writing extensively in local newspapers on Gambian and African history. He then joined the civil service, holding various positions in ministries covering areas such as local government, agriculture and education. In 1977 he was posted to the office of the long-serving Gambian president Dawda Jawara, working there for more than a decade, including as Jawaras speechwriter. During that time he rose from the post of assistant secretary to become permanent secretary of the Ministry of Works and Communications in 1988. Phodays intellectual prowess and eloquence earned him a reputation in the Gambia as one of the finest minds in the country. He was also popular for his philanthropic activities and was especially benevolent to the people of Jarra Soma, where he fulfilled his late fathers legacy by always helping anyone in need. After a military coup in 1994 that deposed Jawara, Phoday moved for his own safety to the UK and settled in Hayes, west London, where he served the local community as a Labour party councillor for the Botwell ward in Hillingdon between 2002 and 2014. As he had done in the Gambia, he proved himself in the UK to be a dedicated and compassionate public servant. He is survived by his wife, Oumie (nee Njie), whom he married in 1984, their daughter, Fanta, and four brothers and five sisters. Queensland police commissioner Steve Gollschewski says a review of the states watch houses will look into the facilities, their staffing and the treatment of those in custody. Photograph: Dan Peled/AAP The Queensland police commissioner says he acknowledges end-to-end systemic issues in police watch houses after revelations about the abominable treatment of children, conditions likened to torture and allegations of misconduct. Steve Gollschewski on Tuesday announced a broad-ranging review into the states watch houses, which he said were under significant pressure. Police watch houses are holding cells designed to hold violent, dangerous and drug-affected adults for short periods. In Queensland children can be held in them indefinitely sometimes for several weeks due to overcrowding in the youth detention system. An investigation by Guardian Australia and SBSs The Feed revealed footage showing children placed in isolation cells in watch houses, including a 13-year-old girl with a severe intellectual disability. An ABC report also detailed an allegation of police brutality. Gollschewski said the review would not look into whether these facilities were appropriate to hold children for long periods but the ability of the police to deliver a system under current arrangements. It would look into whether facilities, including some watch houses that were more than 50 years old, were fit for purpose given modern pressures on the custody system. The review will also assess at the training and skills of the watch house workforce made up of sworn police officers and specialist watch house officers. Advocates have raised concerns that police were not equipped to care for children with complex needs, including intellectual disabilities, held in watch houses on remand. [The review] includes all facilities, how we staff them, how we train our staff, and the conduct within those watch houses, and in particular the treatment of those in custody, Gollshewski said. Related: Screaming, freezing, struggling to breathe: confronting Queensland watch house footage exposes anguish of children locked in isolation cells Police will also now mandate that officers use body-warn cameras, and publish live data showing the numbers of children and adult in watch houses. The number of complaints about police in watch houses has increased in the past year, Gollschewski said. Clearly were very concerned [about those complaints], he said. And in some instances our people have got it wrong. Queensland locks up more children than most other states combined. Gollschewski said numbers of people in custody had been increasing and that the demand placed on our watch houses will continue to intensify. I acknowledge there are end-to-end systemic issues in our watch houses and the whole system is under significant pressure, he said. I expect our people to always do their best and its my job to ensure they have the right training and equipment, operational support and facilities. The deputy commissioner Cameron Harsley said the review would look at the sorts of people held in watch houses, that there was a different cohort in lockups compared to when many watch houses were designed, including those who are violent, drug-affected or have complex mental health issues. Advocates say it is inappropriate to hold children alongside adults in those circumstances. Gollshewski said: Wed rather have no children in watch houses. But obviously theres a community safety consideration. What we want to do is move them out of there as quickly as they possibly can. Fire extinguishers are used against police during rioting in Rotherham on Sunday - Danny Lawson/PA Wire Rioters face being charged with terror offences, Britains top prosecutor has warned. Stephen Parkinson, the Director of Public Prosecutions, said his team would use every legal power to jail those behind the disorder, and that terror legislation was already being used in one case. More than 400 people have already been arrested in connection with the violence and disorder sweeping Britain. Many more arrests are expected in the coming days. The comments came as the country braced for another day of unrest, with more than 6,000 specialist riot officers on standby amid warnings that far-Right groups are planning to target at least 39 immigration centres across Britain. Mr Parkinson told the BBC: There are sentencing guidelines which indicate that many people who have been caught up in this disorder will face immediate imprisonment. There should be no doubt about that. They are going to prison. We are willing to look at terrorism offences. Im aware of at least one instance where that is happening. Where you have organised groups planning activity for the purposes of advancing an ideology... planning really, really serious disruption then yes, we will consider terrorism offences. He also said it is deeply disturbing to see children as young as 11 taking part in riots as he warned them they could face lifelong consequences for doing so. Earlier this week, Neil Basu, a former head of UK counter-terrorism policing, suggested some of the violence being witnessed had crossed the line into terrorism. Mr Basu said the attack on the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham on Sunday, while people were inside, should be treated as terrorism. He described the rioters as bullies and cowards. But Jonathan Hall KC, the Governments independent reviewer of terror legislation, warned politicians not to rush into declaring the riots as terrorism. He said caution must be exercised when invoking terrorism powers to a live incident as you may end up with finger-pointing at one group. He added: I think that you need to be cautious about applying counter-terrorism in effectively a live incident. It could be escalatory, youll end up with finger-pointing. One group will start saying: Well if youre calling these people terrorists, why dont you call it these people terrorists? Click here to view this content. Heidi Alexander, the justice minister, insisted it would be up to the Crown Prosecution Service, not politicians, to decide what charges would be brought against those taking part in disturbances. On Tuesday, police confirmed that intelligence sources had identified at least 30 hotspots where trouble could flare on Wednesday, including London. In a statement, Scotland Yard Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine described the disorder as one of the worst spates of violent disorder in the last decade. He said: This is a national critical incident, and we will do everything in our power to protect London and its communities. We will not tolerate this on our streets. We will use every power, tactic and tool available to prevent further scenes of disorder. Speaking from Downing Street on Tuesday evening, Sir Keir Starmer said he was expecting substantive sentencing for those taking part in the unrest before the end of this week. Following an emergency Cobra meeting at Downing Street, the Prime Minister said: Those involved will feel the full force of the law. Over 400 people now have been arrested, 100 have been charged some in relation to online activity and a number of them are already in court. That should send a very powerful message to anybody involved, either directly or online, that you are likely to be dealt with within a week. Britain is braced for another day of unrest, with more than 6,000 specialist riot officers on standby - Danny Lawson/PA Wire But he has been criticised by some over his response to the riots, with Elon Musk, the tech billionaire, branding him two-tier Keir. Commenting on X, formerly known as Twitter the social media platform he owns Mr Musk was responding to footage showing rioters hurling missiles at a pub in Birmingham. One man was shown being kicked in the head by a rioter, and Mr Musk captioned the video: Why arent all communities protected in Britain? It comes after accusations of two-tier policing, with critics claiming Right-wing protesters are dealt with more harshly than Left-wing demonstrators. Robert Jenrick, the Conservative leadership contender, questioned the policing of the riots on Tuesday. Sir Paul Stephenson, a former Met Police chief, called for the full force of the law to be applied equally to all those involved in violence. Those who used the internet to incite riots from abroad could face extradition and prosecution where appropriate, Mr Parkinson confirmed. While he did not name anyone suspected of such offences, it was reported earlier this week that Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, the English Defence League founder otherwise known as Tommy Robinson, is on holiday at an all-inclusive resort in Cyprus. He left Britain last week after failing to appear in court having been accused of breaching a contempt of court order. Yaxley-Lennon has been accused of spreading misinformation that helped stoke violence in the wake of the killings of three girls in Southport last week. He has denied orchestrating or encouraging violence. Mr Parkinson stressed he was absolutely seeking to charge people for online offences relating to the rioting, and being based abroad would not prevent them from being prosecuted. He added: Some people are abroad. That doesnt mean theyre safe. We have liaison prosecutors spread around the globe whove got local links with the local judiciary and law enforcement, but also the police are also stationed abroad. It came as a 28-year-old from Leeds became the first person to be prosecuted for stirring up violence online. Jordan Parlour was accused of making Facebook posts between Aug 1 and Aug 5 with the intention of sparking tensions while demonstrations were taking place. Appearing at Leeds Magistrates Court on Tuesday, he pleaded guilty to using threatening, abusive or insulting words in the posts. He was remanded in custody ahead of sentencing at Leeds Crown Court on Friday. Al-Asad military airbase in Iraq - AFP At least five American personnel have been injured in a rocket attack at an airbase in western Iraq. Two Iraqi security sources said two Katyusha rockets were fired and fell inside Al-Asad airbase on Monday. US officials, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity, said one of the wounded Americans was seriously injured, adding that the casualty count was based on initial reports and could still change. Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have been briefed on the attack. The attack comes as the Middle East remains on high alert, with Israel preparing for a possible ground assault orchestrated by Hamas and Iran, following its assassinations of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders in recent days. Both groups are backed by Iran. It remains unclear whether the attack was linked to threats by Iran to retaliate over the killing of the Hamas leader. We can confirm that there was a suspected rocket attack today against US and Coalition forces at Al-Asad Airbase, Iraq, a Pentagon official said. Initial indications are that several US personnel were injured. Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment. According to reports, more than 150 attacks on US personnel in Iraq and Syria occurred between October 17 2023 and January 29 2024. Those attacks slowed after three American troops were killed in a drone attack on a small US outpost in Jordan in January, resulting in a significant US response that hit 85 targets at seven different locations. The United States does not seek conflict in the Middle East or anywhere else in the world, Mr Biden said at the time. But let all those who might seek to do us harm know this: If you harm an American, we will respond. Tensions spike in Middle East On Monday afternoon, Mr Biden posted an image of himself and Ms Harris in the White House Situation Room as they received a briefing on the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The Vice President and I were briefed in the Situation Room on developments in the Middle East, Mr Biden wrote. We received updates on threats posed by Iran and its proxies, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate regional tensions, and preparations to support Israel should it be attacked again. He added: We also discussed the steps we are taking to defend our forces and respond to any attack against our personnel in a manner and place of our choosing. The assassinations of Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas top political leader in Iran, and Fuad Shukr, a senior Hezbollah commander, have escalated tensions in the Middle East, even as Israel and Hamas attempt to broker a ceasefire in Gaza in exchange for the return of hostages taken on Oct 7. The Hamas-run territorys health ministry has reported nearly 40,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the war between Israel and Palestinian militants broke out on October 7. These figures do not distinguish between civilians and fighters and are disputed by Israel. Ismael Haniyeh during the swearing in ceremony for the new Iranian President on July 30 - AFP Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas told Russias RIA state news agency on Tuesday that the killing of Haniyeh intended to prolong the conflict in Gaza and would complicate talks on resolving the crisis. There is no doubt that the purpose of Mr Haniyehs assassination is to prolong the war and expand its scope, Mr Abbas said. We consider this a cowardly act and a dangerous development in Israeli politics. It will have a negative impact on the ongoing negotiations to end the aggression and withdraw Israeli troops from Gaza. The White House informed US legislators that retaliatory strikes from Iran may happen as early as Monday or Tuesday. Information about the assessment followed a call on Sunday between Secretary of State Antony Blinken and the foreign ministers of the Group of Seven, in which Mr Blinken discussed the urgent need for de-escalation in the Middle East. Mr Blinken said on Monday that Washington was engaged in intense diplomacy, pretty much around the clock to help calm tensions. All parties must refrain from escalation, Mr Blinken said during a signing ceremony with his Australian counterpart in Washington. All parties must take steps to ease tensions. Escalation is not in anyones interests. It will only lead to more conflict, more violence, more insecurity. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said: One of the points of the engagements that we have had is to urge countries to pass messages to Iran and urge countries to make clear to Iran that it is very much not in their interests to escalate this conflict, that it is very much not in their interest to launch another attack on Israel. CORRECTION: An earlier version of this article reported nearly 40,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the war between Israel and Palestinian militants broke out on October 7. This has been amended to reflect that these figures are published by the Hamas-run territorys health ministry; do not distinguish between civilians and fighters and are disputed by Israel. A protest in Islamabad over the murder of a pregnant woman, Farzana Parveen, by her own family for choosing a husband herself. Three Karachi hospitals receive nearly 20 victims of gender-based violence a day but far more go unreported, police say. Photograph: Aamir Qureshi/AFP/Getty The household was fast asleep when the six men broke in. They sought out Sobia Batool Shah, 22, and one of them attacked her with a hatchet, chopping at her limbs in an effort to sever her legs. He was relentless and must have hit me at least 15 times, she says. I screamed in pain and pleaded with him to stop, but he was like a man possessed, she adds. I even told him I will not seek a divorce. Shah was attacked by men from her own family including her father, Syed Mustafa Shah, her uncle and cousins who broke into the house, in Naushahro Feroze, in Pakistans Sindh province, as punishment for refusing to withdraw her application to divorce her husband. Speaking to the Guardian by phone from the Peoples University of Medical and Health Sciences for Women, in the city of Nawabshah, where she is being treated, Shah says she is in immense pain and her legs are both in plaster. The doctors have put a rod in one leg, she says. Its all about power control, says Dr Summaiya Syed Tariq, chief police surgeon in Sindhs capital, Karachi. Syed Tariq, who also heads the Sindh police medico-legal department, has seen hundreds of women physically and mentally abused, raped, burned and murdered over the last 26 years. We are nurturing abusers who are worse than animals, she says. On an average day, the department receives reports of about six cases of sexual violence and 10 to 15 cases of domestic violence across the medico-legal centres at three public hospitals in Karachi. In the case of sexual violence against minors, my assessment is that for every three cases that come to us, seven more go unreported. And I am not counting the dead bodies that we receive, Syed Tariq adds. Gender inequality is a global problem, but Pakistans indicators reflect especially alarming rates of disparities and violence faced by women. According to this years World Economic Forums Global Gender Gap report, Pakistan is ranked second from bottom out of 146 countries, behind only Sudan. It ranked 164 out of 193 countries on the 2023-24 UN gender inequality index. Abdullah Lakhair, deputy superintendent of police in Naushahro Feroze, says the victims father admitted the attack, telling police his daughter had brought dishonour to the family by filing for divorce. Had it not been for my uncle, we would not have had a roof over our head. How dare my father talk about his honour being sullied by my divorce? Sobia Batool Shah She had asked the authorities for protection after her father threatened to kill her previously. Earlier last month, the district judge had referred her to a womens shelter, where she stayed for two weeks, but then decided to return to her mother. The incident happened soon after, Lakhair says. Shah says her father had left her mother and siblings and cut all ties with them. Had it not been for my maternal grandfather and my uncle, we would not have had a roof over our head all these years. How dare he talk about his honour being sullied by my divorce, she says. Lakhair says Shahs father is awaiting sentencing and could face up to 14 years in prison. The incident has sparked angry reactions from the public and civil society organisations in Pakistan. Anis Haroon, a womens rights activist and former chair of the National Commission on the Status of Women, travelled from Karachi to visit Shah in hospital. She is sceptical about the case sparking any meaningful change. Like so many harrowing incidents in the past, this will soon be forgotten, she says. Pakistan has the laws but no political will to implement them, she adds. Related: Rebel fighter, Maoist MP, rape survivor: the many lives of Devi Khadka The legislators think their work ends after laws are passed in assemblies. They fall short of putting efforts towards their implementation, Haroon says. After the attack on Shah, her mother went to neighbours for help, thinking her unconscious daughter had lost so much blood she must have died. After giving her immediate medical help, we sent her to Nawabshah, an hour and a half from here, says Lakhair. She had to be given 10 bags of blood, which the police arranged. She is in safe hands, for now. Although her father is in prison awaiting sentencing, Shah has been provided with round-the-clock police protection in the hospital. My father has been apprehended but his brother has been granted bail. I am very scared, she says. Merchandise bearing Pablo Escobar's face include T-shirts, mugs, keyrings... and even cushions - Daniel Romero/VWPics/Alamy Colombia is considering banning souvenirs themed around Pablo Escobar, the drug lord who almost brought the country to its knees. A new law would prohibit merchandise depicting or referencing Escobar, who was killed by security forces in 1993, aged 44. Shop owners and foreign tourists flouting the law would face a fine of nearly 130. Escobar mementoes are popular in souvenir shops and street markets in the capital, Bogota, the Caribbean resort city of Cartagena and the kingpins home city of Medellin, once the murder capital of the world but now a destination for digital nomads. Items range from fridge magnets and mugs to Escobar masks and T-shirts emblazoned with his identity card and the words el patron the boss. Many bear one of his most infamous quotes: plata o plomo (silver or lead). Escobar is said to have uttered the phrase as he offered police at a checkpoint the choice of a hefty bribe to let him go or being shot to death. An Escobar souvenir collector and seller at a hair salon in Medellin - Georg Ismar/dpa/Alamy But the proposed legislation, introduced by Cristian Avendano, a Green party congressman, would ban any products that exalt Escobar, the drug trade or the bloodshed that frequently comes with it. These items are revictimising people who are victims of murderers, Mr Avendano said. We cannot continue to praise these people and act as if their crimes were acceptable. There are other ways for businesses to grow and other ways to sell Colombia to the world. Three decades after his death in a shootout on the roof of his palatial home, the head of the Medellin cartel remains an almost mythical figure, both detested and revered as one of the most powerful drug traffickers in history. During his career, he ordered the murders of 4,000 people, amassed a 3.75 billion fortune making him one of the richest people on the planet at the time and showered his wealth on the slums of Medellin as he sought to portray himself as a Robin Hood-figure. Escobar souvenirs for sale at the El Patron store - Daniel Romero/VWPics/Alamy Escobar became so brazen that he was once even elected member of congress giving him parliamentary immunity and had a presidential front-runner blown up. Today, his legacy and its commercial potential remain a hugely sensitive issue. Last year, Colombian regulators denied a request from Escobars widow and children to trademark his name, warning that it would be permissive of violence, and threaten public order. Nevertheless, the country remains the worlds largest producer of cocaine even as it emerges from a decades-long civil war with the Marxist FARC rebels, who frequently funded their arms purchases through the drugs trade. The proposed Escobar souvenir ban comes just as President Gustavo Petro has agreed to negotiate with the Gulf Clan, far-Right paramilitaries also heavily involved in the cocaine business, about the possibility of them disarming and facing justice for a laundry list of atrocities. Police officers detain far-Right protesters after they tried to cross to the side of the opposing group in Plymouth - Anadolu Rioters will face the full force of the law, Sir Keir Starmer has vowed ahead of a further expected wave of riots across the UK. The Prime Minister, speaking after an emergency Cobra meeting at Downing Street, said rioters should expect substantive sentences on conviction. More than 400 people have been arrested following the violent unrest in nearly two dozen cities and towns in England, Wales and Northern Ireland over the past six days. Sir Keir promised communities will be safe and that the criminal justice system has shown a robust and swift response in the face of the unrest. Police forces are bracing themselves for up to 30 potential gatherings of rioters on Wednesday. A list of solicitors firms and advice agencies has been shared in chat groups as possible targets for gatherings, with the message inviting would be rioters to mask up if they attend. The Law Society of England and Wales described such gatherings as adirect assault on our democratic values and urged the Government to treat such threats against the legal profession with the utmost seriousness. A teenager who smashed police cars during disorder in Bolton is believed to have become the first person to be jailed over the riots. James Nelson, 18, pleaded guilty on Tuesday to causing criminal damage on Sunday, Greater Manchester Police said. He was sentenced to two months imprisonment at Manchester magistrates court. Wes Streeting the Health Secretary, said those who are racist to NHS staff in health settings can and should be turned away from care. He Government will not tolerate the continuation of violence and condemned the mindless thuggery seen on streets across Britain. 10:12 PM BST Round up of todays events Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said those convicted of rioting can substantive sentencing by the end of this week. Immigration advice staff and solicitors have said they are fearful about going to work amid one of the worst periods of violent disorder of the last decade. An extra 2,200 specialist riot officers are being put on standby ahead of warnings that far Right agitators are planning to target more than 30 immigration centres across Britain. The Metropolitan Police has vowed to protect London from one of the worst spates of violent disorder in the last decade, as more protests are due to take place on Wednesday. Elon Musk has branded the Prime Minister two-tier Keir in the latest attack by the billionaire on how widespread riots are being policed across the UK. 09:58 PM BST Young boy assaulted by group of teenagers treated as hate crime An assault on a young boy in Belfast is being investigated as a hate crime by police. Officers said a large group of young people threw eggs at a shop on the Falls Road at 6.10pm on Tuesday. They said a young boy was also assaulted by up to 10 youths and sustained a minor facial injury. People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll, who attended the scene, said the community was disgusted by the incident. He said west Belfast locals defended a business that came under attack by a group of young people. It is deeply concerning to see young people swept up in such behaviour, especially when we have seen such sickening and widespread attacks on minorities in recent days, he said. Reports that a number of youths have attacked the Middle East Market on the Falls Road in west Belfast. A number of community activists and a councillor are now onsite with the youths dispersed. @BelTel pic.twitter.com/swPY1NcZwq Kevin Scott (@Kscott_94) August 6, 2024 09:42 PM BST Police chief vows strongest possible action against potential rioters A Police chief in Avon and Somerset has vowed to take the strongest possible action against those taking part in planned unrest on Wednesday. Deputy Chief Constable Jon Reilly said he was aware of online posts calling people to gather in Bristol and vowed to maintain order and keep people safe. In a statement issued by Avon and Somerset Police, Mr Reilly said: The incidents of disorder weve seen take place across the country recently, including in Bristol on Saturday, are completely unacceptable. These are not legitimate protests and we will not tolerate any behaviour which attempts to divide our communities. Were aware of posts circulating online calling for people to gather in Bristol tomorrow night and I want to reassure you well have significant resources in place to maintain order and keep people safe. 09:24 PM BST Lord Chancellor issues warning to protesters planning to intimidate immigration lawyers The Lord Chancellor has warned people who incite mobs will feel the full force of the law, amid concerns over the safety of legal professionals. It comes as a number of events were planned outside immigration advice centres and solicitors offices across the country on Wednesday. Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: Every day, across the country, solicitors uphold the rule of law. Inciting mobs to attack their offices, or threatening them in any way, is unacceptable. Those found doing so will face the full force of the law.They will join the hundreds of others who have already been arrested by police within the last week. 08:57 PM BST Starmer declines to comment on Elon Musk Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer refused to be drawn into comments made by X owner Elon Musk about the ongoing disorder in the UK. When asked by reporters if he was worried about Mr Musks impact on the unrest, or if the man who bought social media platform Twitter had a point with some of his opinions, Sir Keir said: My focus is on ensuring that our communities are safe. That is my sole focus and I think its very important for us all to support the police in what theyre doing. I went up to Southport to speak to some of the police who had been the first responders to the terrible attack that happened. They described the scene to me and what they had to deal with when those girls were attacked. Those same officers were then attacked on their own streets later the same day - the same officers who had been the first responders. Our first duty is to support the police in a difficult exercise that they are engaged in, keeping us safe... the police are doing a difficult job in difficult circumstances and I think that everybody should be giving their full support to ensure that we can make sure that our streets are safe and our communities feel safe and secure. That is really where the focus ought to be. That is my sole focus and thats why I held this second Cobra meeting. 08:35 PM BST Response to rioters has been robust and swift, says Starmer Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the criminal justice system has shown a robust and swift response in the face of ongoing unrest. Speaking to reporters after Tuesdays Cobra meeting, Sir Keir said: Within a week, the criminal justice system really has shown the robust and swift response that is very important to sending a message in circumstances like this. Keir Starmer speaking after Cobra meeting with senior officials 08:32 PM BST Substantive sentencing for rioters, Starmer says Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he is expecting substantive sentencing for those taking part in the unrest before the end of this week. Speaking to reporters inside Downing Street on Tuesday evening, Sir Keir said: Those involved will feel the full force of the law... over 400 people now have been arrested, 100 have been charged - some in relation to online activity - and a number of them are already in court. Im now expecting substantive sentencing before the end of this week. That should send a very powerful message to anybody involved, either directly or online, that you are likely to be dealt with within a week. Nobody, but nobody, should be involved themselves in this disorder. 08:30 PM BST Communities will be safe Keir Starmer promises ahead of further riots Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has promised communities will be safefollowing a Cobra meeting on Tuesday evening and said those taking part in unrest will feel the full force of the law. 08:13 PM BST Attorney General leaves Cobra meeting Richard Hermer, the Attorney General, has been seen leaving the Cabinet Office in Westminster, London, where Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has chaired a meeting of the Governments emergency Cobra committee. Attorney General Richard Hermer - PA 07:52 PM BST Woman who pushed burning wheelie bin into police pleads guilty A woman who pushed a burning wheelie bin into a row of police officers before falling to the ground and being arrested has pleaded guilty to violent disorder. Teesside Magistrates Court heard Stacy Vint, 34, and a man were seen pushing the bin, the contents of which were on fire, on Linthorpe Road during unrest in Middlesbrough on Sunday. Prosecutor John Garside said the pair then shoved the bin at a police line before Vint fell over and was arrested. She initially gave officers a false name, the court heard. Vint was remanded in custody until her sentencing on August 28. 07:40 PM BST Police appeal for video footage of riots in Birmingham Police have appealed for video footage of criminality, including an attack on a car, during a counter-protest staged after social media rumours of a far-right march being held in Birmingham. Officers are also treating an attack on a drinker who was punched and kicked outside a pub in the Yardley area of the city as violent disorder. West Midlands Police said the level of policing during sporadic incidents of disorder on Monday night had been commensurate with intelligence assessments made before hundreds of people gathered in the Bordesley Green area. As well as smashing a window of a car, counter-protesters broke windows at a pub and attacked a man aged in his 50s standing outside who is not believed to have suffered serious injuries. Officers have also arrested a 46-year-old on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon after television coverage of a person apparently holding a sword, and added they are investigating attempts to slash a tyre on a Sky News vehicle. A Sky News correspondent was followed by a man in balaclava holding a knife after speaking live from Birmingham. The man stabbed the tyre of Sky broadcast van but didn't damage it, so the crew was able to drive away.https://t.co/7zoRVgoBS2 pic.twitter.com/rbUTzpIPfN Sky News (@SkyNews) August 5, 2024 07:25 PM BST We are coming for you, warns police chief after 51 officers injured in Rotherham South Yorkshire Police said a total of 51 officers were injured as a result of violence outside the Holiday Inn Express Hotel in Manvers, Rotherham on Sunday. Officers received injuries including broken bones, concussion, bruising, and head wounds, while police horses and dogs were also hurt, with one horse sustaining a hoof injury which has forced it retire from duty. Police clash with rioters outside hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham - Christopher Furlong/Getty Images Injured officers who have been unable to resume frontline duties are now part of the team trawling through footage and gathering evidence to secure arrests and charges, the force said. Assistant Chief Constable David Hartley said officers were truly grateful for the kind messages of thanks and support which have been received from our communities, adding: I am so proud of our officers bravery and resilience on the night and now their ongoing dedication to helping our communities remain safe, coming back to work despite being subjected to such terrible levels of violence. Mr Hartley added: If you were involved in the outright acts of violence and thuggery on Sunday, let me be clear - we are coming for you. 07:18 PM BST Nigel Farage refuses to apologise over Southport comments Nigel Farage has said he was referring to claims made by influencer Andrew Tate when he asked whether the alleged Southport attacker was known to security services. In a video posted on July 30, the day after the attack that killed three young girls, Reform UK leader Mr Farage said there had been reports that the suspect was being monitored by the security services. Referring to the police description of the attack as a non-terror incident, he added: I just wonder whether the truth is being withheld from us. I dont know the answer to that. I think its a fair and legitimate question. Speaking to LBC on Tuesday, he declined to apologise for his comments, saying the disorder following the Southport attack had been so bad because we werent told the truth. He said his comments about the security services had been referring to posts by prominent folks with a big following, such as Andrew Tate falsely claiming the suspect had arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel in a small boat in 2016. NEW: Nigel Farage says he was misled by Andrew Tate and 'other folk with big followings' into incorrectly suggesting that the man charged with the Southport killings 'was known to security services' pic.twitter.com/t5Mx9SEERv Politics UK (@PolitlcsUK) August 6, 2024 07:09 PM BST Police to be paid overtime to tackle riots Funding will not be a barrier to a strong police response to disorder, the Home Secretary has said. In a call on Tuesday, Yvette Cooper told chief constables their forces would receive support for overtime pay and any other resources they required when dealing with public disorder. She said: The police have my unwavering commitment to ensure they have everything they need to mobilise a strong frontline response across the country to put a stop to the appalling displays of violence and criminal damage we have seen in some of our towns and cities. Criminals should expect to pay the price for violent thuggery and disorder on our streets. Keyboard warriors also cannot hide, as criminal organisation and incitement online will be liable for prosecution and strong penalties too. 07:02 PM BST Immigration lawyers in fear of going to work Immigration advice staff and solicitors have said they are fearful about going to work amid one of the worst periods of violent disorder of the last decade. Police are aware of six potential events on Tuesday and officers are anticipating a busy day on Wednesday as they monitor reports of at least 30 possible gatherings. Concern for the safety of immigration law specialists in particular has been sparked after a list of solicitors firms and advice agencies across the country were shared in chat groups as targets in the coming days. Staff at some of those businesses said they have been advised to work from home on Wednesday, and that police and fire officers had visited their premises to check security arrangements including CCTV cameras and smoke alarms. An office manager at an immigration advisory service said he felt very very scared and very upset regarding the threats his workplace has received. The man, who wished to remain anonymous, said: Around this area, all of the shops that are next to us - theyre very scared as well. Offices and restaurants - theyre very scared and upset. 06:48 PM BST Pictured: Sir Mark Rowley arrives for Cobra meeting Sir Mark Rowley, the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, has arrived at the Cabinet Office for the Cobra meeting. Sir Keir Starmer is chairing a meeting of the Governments emergency Cobra committee on Tuesday evening following ongoing unrest across parts of the country. Mark Rowley arrives at the Cabinet Office - Aaron Chown/PA 06:41 PM BST NI Secretary calls for end to senseless violence Hilary Benn, the Northern Ireland Secretary, has called for an end to the senseless violence and intimidation. He said: The violence which has sowed fear in local communities and damaged businesses is totally unacceptable. The people of Northern Ireland deserve better. Those involved in this violent disorder are damaging the very communities they falsely claim to represent. He added: I urge those involved to stop this senseless violence and intimidation. 06:23 PM BST Farage condemns riots Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, has published a video on X, formerly Twitter, criticising rioters. The video, which is nearly nine minutes long, is accompanied by the caption: How to stop the riots. How to stop the riots. pic.twitter.com/WRAIhrgxe3 Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) August 6, 2024 06:19 PM BST Musks comments arent helpful, says senior police officer Supt Emlyn Richards, of West Midlands Police, said that the comments made on X, formerly Twitter, by Elon Musk, the social media platforms owner, are not helpful. She said: I dont think its helpful at this moment in time. However, people have that right to express their opinions and thats what Mr Musk has done. What I would say in respect of two-tier policing, is it doesnt exist in the West Midlands - we are here to police without fear or favour. The senior officer added: My plea to communities is to be extremely mindful of the incredibly harmful spreading of misinformation on social media at the current time, do challenge what you see online, report where appropriate and consider the source of the posts. 06:09 PM BST Labour MPs criticise Musk for his role in UK riots Elon Musk could be summoned for a grilling by British MPs over Xs role in riots that have rocked the UK over the last week, as well as his own comments about the violence. Chi Onwurah and Dawn Butler, who are both Labour MPs and are competing to chair Parliaments science, innovation and technology committee, told Politico that theyd press Musk and other technology executives to answer questions around the role of social media platforms amid unrest in the UK. Ms Onwurah, the Newcastle upon Tyne MP, told Politico: The really important points here are the way algorithms of platforms promote and amplify misinformation and the spreading of racial hatred, and how the platforms business models rely on that. She has already criticised Musk for what she called Xs role in spreading misinformation and she has said X has a responsibility not to incite racial hatred. Ms Butler, the MP for Brent East, told Politco that the committee must question all owners of social media platforms. She said of X: Its a very powerful base, and we need to understand that power and make sure that its responsible. 05:56 PM BST Thousands more riot police on standby over fears of violence at immigration centres An extra 2,200 specialist riot officers are being put on standby ahead of warnings that far right thugs are planning to target more than 30 immigration centres across Britain. Police forces had already mobilised 4,000 trained public order officers to deal with the violence and disorder sweeping Britain. But with the unrest showing no sign of abating, police leaders have boosted the numbers by an extra 2,200 officers. They will be on standby across the country and can be mobilised to support colleagues locally and regionally. The move comes amid fears that extremists are planning to target dozens of law centres which specialise in helping those seeking help with asylum applications. A list of at least 39 centres offering immigration services across England is believed to have circulated among far right groups. Police confirmed that intelligence sources had identified at least 30 hotspots where trouble could flare on Wednesday. 05:51 PM BST Nottingham protest location is elderly persons home, police say Nottinghamshire Police have urged anyone planning to attend a protest on Wednesday not to after it was found that the location advertised online is the address of an elderly person. In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, the force said: We are aware of a potential protest being organised in Nottingham on Wednesday evening. The location has no links to the business advertised on the internet. Officers have visited the address and it is home to an elderly person with vulnerabilities. 05:21 PM BST Police arrest man in connection with Birmingham protest A 46-year-old male has been arrested by police investigating TV footage that shows a man apparently armed with a weapon at a counter-protest in Bordesley Green, Birmingham, on Monday night. West Midlands Police also said an assault on a drinker outside Yardleys Clumsy Swan pub is being investigated as a violent disorder. Other inquiries are under way into damage caused to windows at the pub, attempts to slash a tyre on a Sky News vehicle, and damage caused to a Skoda car that was forced to drive across a grassed area after being attacked. 05:17 PM BST Teenager wore pink balaclava to disguise identity during Bolton riot A teenager who tried to disguise his identity by wearing a pink balaclava while he smashed the windows of police cars during a riot has been jailed. James Nelson, 18, was arrested after a protest in Bolton became violent on Sunday. Smoke bombs and other missiles were thrown during the disorder as police separated two groups - one of mostly Asian men and the other waving England flags. Nelson was charged with causing 4,999 worth of damage to police vehicles in a Morrisons car park on Black Horse Street. He was jailed for two months at Manchester and Salford magistrates court after pleading guilty to one count of causing criminal damage. He was also ordered to pay 4,999 in compensation by 1 December. James Nelson, who was arrested after a protest in Bolton became violent - Greater Manchester Police 04:51 PM BST Time for Keir Starmer to come out of hiding, says MP Sir Gavin Williamson has said it is time for the Prime Minister to come out of hiding and recall Parliament to deal with the disorder across the UK. Sir Gavin wrote on X, formerly Twitter: Disorder and violence continue to tear through our country. More than 400 people have been arrested, livelihoods have been damaged, and fractures within our society have been laid bare. Thats why its time for Keir Starmer to come out of hiding and recall Parliament. 04:46 PM BST Met Police vow to protect London from one of worst spates of violent disorder in last decade The Metropolitan Police has vowed to protect London from one of the worst spates of violent disorder in the last decade, as more protests are due to take place on Wednesday. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine, who is in charge of the policing operation, said: This country is faced with one of the worst spates of violent disorder in the last decade. This is a national critical incident and we will do everything in our power to protect London and its communities. We know about the events planned by hateful and divisive groups across the capital tomorrow night. Theyve made their intention to cause disruption and division very clear. The scenes of racist, thuggish and criminal behaviour across the country have been deeply shocking. Members of the public and officers have been attacked, many have been injured. We will not tolerate this on our streets. We will use every power, tactic and tool available to prevent further scenes of disorder. We arrested more than 100 people in central London disorder last week and we will not hesitate to arrest hundreds more if they take to the streets intent on fuelling violence. 04:34 PM BST Refugee charities call for turning point away from demonising language Nearly 250 refugee charities have signed a statement condemning anti-migrant violence and calling for a turning point away from the demonising language of the past. The charities have called for urgent action to ensure that local authorities have the resources they need to protect those under threat of attack in asylum accommodation, refugee service centres and places of worship. In the statement, published on Tuesday, the charities said: As organisations based across the UK working with refugees and migrants, we are deeply shocked and devastated by these horrific acts of violence. They added: This moment must mark a turning point, away from the divisive politics, racist rhetoric and demonising language of the past. Now is an opportunity to bring communities and the country together for a different way forward - one that is compassionate and united. 04:26 PM BST PM to chair emergency Cobra meeting Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, will chair another emergency Cobra meeting on Tuesday evening on the continued action to tackle the violent disorder that has been taking place around the country, according to the PA news agency. Relevant ministers and police chiefs will attend. 04:22 PM BST Watch: Apology issued to pub staff following Birmingham riots Click here to view this content. 04:16 PM BST Civil unrest is not terrorism: Telegraph readers react to riots Protests have erupted across Britain after the killing of three young girls in Southport. On Monday, demonstrations entered their seventh day with mass gatherings in Plymouth, Birmingham, Belfast and Darlington. Following the protests, the Governments independent reviewer of terror legislation, Jonathan Hall KC, has said politicians must not rush to class the riots as terrorism. In an exclusive Telegraph poll of over 28,000 readers, 88 per cent agree with Mr Hall, who said on the BBCs Today programme: I think that you need to be cautious about applying counter-terrorism in effectively a live incident, it could be escalatory. Read the full story here 03:52 PM BST Nearly half of voters think PM is handling riots badly, suggests poll A new YouGov survey shows that nearly half of voters think that Sir Keir Starmer is handling the riots badly. According to the poll, 49 per cent of Britons think that the Prime Minister is handling the riots badly, whereas only 31 per cent believe that he is handling them well. However, those surveyed have a more positive view when it comes the polices handling of the riots. Over half of Britons (52 per cent) believe that the police are handling the unrest well. 03:42 PM BST Tommy Robinson praises Elon Musk Tommy Robinson has said on X, formerly Twitter, that if it wasnt for Elon Musk, he wouldve been hung, drawn and quartered by the Government. If it wasn't for Elon Musk. The government and legacy media would've had me hung, drawn and quartered, without reply, over their failings. https://t.co/K2UAFuMfBb Tommy Robinson (@TRobinsonNewEra) August 6, 2024 Elon Musk has branded the Prime Minister two-tier Keir in his latest comments on how widespread riots are being policed across the UK. The owner of X, formerly Twitter, made the comments on the website in response to a video showing protesters hurling missiles at a pub in Birmingham, some of whom were masked and raising Palestinian flags. Click here to view this content. 03:31 PM BST First person charged with stirring up racial hatred over Facebook posts A man has been charged with intending to stir up racial hatred relating to alleged posts on Facebook, the Crown Prosecution Service said. Jordan Parlour, from Seacroft, Leeds, is the first person to face prosecution for posting allegedly criminal messages linked to the riots. Around 400 people attended a protest in Leeds City Centre on Saturday. Nick Price, the director of legal services, said: We have authorised West Yorkshire Police to charge Jordan Parlour, 28, with using threatening words or behaviour intending to stir up racial hatred. The charge relates to alleged Facebook posts between 1 August and 5 August in connection with the violent public disorder across the UK. It is extremely important there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings. He will appear at Leeds magistrates court on Tuesday. 03:01 PM BST Musk calls PM two-tier Keir Elon Musk has branded the Prime Minister two-tier Keir in the latest attack by the billionaire on how widespread riots are being policed across the UK. The owner of X, formerly Twitter, made the comments on the website in response to a video showing protesters hurling missiles at a pub in Birmingham, some of whom were masked and raising Palestinian flags. Mr Musk captioned the video with the message: Why arent all communities protected in Britain? Read the full story here 02:39 PM BST No doubt there is a paramilitary element to NI disorder, says assistant chief constable Melanie Jones, the assistant chief constable, has said she has no doubt there is a paramilitary element, describing scenes of disorder in Belfast on Monday night following an anti-immigration protest. Speaking at a press conference in Belfast, Ms Jones said: What we saw last night, we feel was different from what we saw on Saturday. On Saturday, we saw mainly older adult people who became involved in disorder. Last night it was clear to us that there was a younger element, teenagers mainly, who were involved in the disorder, but that there was an element of organisation and orchestration from what appeared to be older adults present at the scene. I have no doubt there is a paramilitary element to this, but I am not in a position to say that this is the main organiser or orchestrator of these events. However, we do keep an open mind to this and this will be part of our investigative strategy. Melanie Jones provides an update in relation to the disorder in Belfast - Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press 02:31 PM BST President of Police Superintendents Association appalled by violent disorder Nick Smart, the president of the Police Superintendents Association, has said he is appalled and disgusted by the violent disorder seen across the UK. He said: I am appalled and disgusted by the continued displays of violence and disorder that have been seen across the country in recent days. What we have seen in areas such as Rotherham, Hull, Plymouth and many more... was mindless violence from people clearly intent on hurting others and damaging communities and property. He added: Whatever has caused this political ideologies or disinformation being spread online, it must stop. Along with every member of the police family, I call for communities, tech companies and those in power to come together against these displays of aggression, and to challenge false information that could be inflaming this. 02:27 PM BST Watch: Man knocked to the ground by police shield during riot Click here to view this content. A man was knocked to the ground by a police officer carrying a riot shield during a night of violence in Plymouth, footage shows. Devon and Cornwall Police officers wearing full riot gear and carrying protective shields are seen standing in a line when a man wearing a pink T-shirt approaches them. As he stumbles towards the officers, one strikes him with a shield and the man appears to briefly lose his balance. The footage shows him then face the officer once more before being hit again, losing his footing and then dropping to the floor. Read the full story here 02:17 PM BST Religious leaders have absolute assurance of support, says Scottish Secretary Ian Murray, the Scottish Secretary, has written to religious leaders in the wake of violence across the UK to give an absolute assurance of support. Violence sprung up in England and Northern Ireland in the past week as a result of anti-immigrant demonstrations that led to rioting following the killing of three young girls in Southport. Mr Murray said in a statement: I have today written to religious leaders to give them my absolute assurance that I will do everything possible to support them at this difficult time. I know that the Chief Constable is aware of their concerns and has already taken steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all Scotlands communities. There is no place in Scotland for this sort of violence, hate and xenophobia. We simply will not tolerate it. 02:01 PM BST India advises visitors to UK to stay vigilant The High Commission of India in London has issued a safety advisory for Indian nationals in the UK, urging them to stay vigilant due to the ongoing riots. The advisory comes after a series of disturbances in parts of the UK over the past week, which have raised concerns about the safety of Indian citizens and other immigrant communities. The advisory says: The High Commission of India in London is closely monitoring the situation. Visitors from India are advised to stay vigilant and exercise caution while travelling in the UK. 01:51 PM BST Children injured in Southport stabbing discharged from Alder Hey Hospital Alder Hey Childrens Hospital has released a statement on X, formerly Twitter, to say that all of the children under their care that were injured during the Southport stabbing have been discharged. We are really pleased to be able to share that all the children involved in last Monday's awful incident in Southport who were under our care have now been safely discharged home from Alder Hey. Full statement: https://t.co/CmYwc5BDk1 pic.twitter.com/iUO0hijzzk Alder Hey (@AlderHey) August 6, 2024 01:43 PM BST PM condemns violent disorder Sir Keir Starmer has condemned the riots plaguing Britains streets as he chaired Tuesdays Cabinet meeting. According to Downing Street, the Prime Minister said: When I went to Southport I spoke to police who described what it was like to attend the mass stabbing of little girls and then to be back on duty the next day in riot gear, having bricks thrown at them. This is something no-one would have ever wanted to see and we need to be calling it out for what it is. It is not protest. It is violent disorder and needs to be treated as such, as criminal activity. 99.9% of people across the country want their streets to be safe and to feel safe in their communities, and we will take all necessary action to bring the disorder to an end. 01:39 PM BST Attack on pub by Muslims was a natural reaction to riots, says MP Ayoub Khan, an Independent MP for Birmingham Perry Barr, has said that the attack on a Birmingham pub by a group of Muslims was just a natural reaction to all the riots. He said: You can see why its being played out in that way the stoking up of tension, the Islamophobic attitude. He added: Youre not going to be able to control young men which are upset and angry this is a natural reaction. "You're not going to be able to control young men which are upset and angry this is a natural reaction". Astonishing to hear a sitting MP defend violent unrest like this. Plays right into the hands of the far right, and backs up the claim of inconsistent treatment. https://t.co/tTgGMXL1TO John Burn-Murdoch (@jburnmurdoch) August 6, 2024 01:32 PM BST Wes Streeting condemns mindless thuggery People who are racist to NHS staff in health settings can and should be turned away from care, the Health Secretary has said. Wes Streeting said the Government will not tolerate the continuation of violence seen in towns and cities across England in the aftermath of the Southport stabbings. In an interview with the PA news agency, Mr Streeting condemned the mindless thuggery seen on streets across Britain over the past week. He said: The Government will not tolerate the continuation of this mindless thuggery by far-right agitators in our country. I was appalled by reports of violence directed towards Filipino nurses in Sunderland - these were nurses going into work to provide emergency care and their attackers bring shame on our flag and shame on our country. He added: People who are abusing NHS staff can be turned away, and should be turned away, if that is the way that they are treating our staff. The two nurses were attacked on Friday evening as they travelled to work to provide emergency cover during unrest in Sunderland. According to reports, the taxi they were travelling in was pelted with rocks. 01:17 PM BST Police officers responding to riots completely traumatised Police responding to riots were left completely traumatised and feared that they would not make it home, the Merseyside chief constable has said. More than 80 officers were injured as violence erupted in Southport, Liverpool and Walton in the past six days. Serena Kennedy, the chief constable of Merseyside Police, said officers responding to the knife attack and the subsequent protests were left completely traumatised. After a vigil was held in the town following the knife attack, protesters who had gathered outside a mosque clashed with police with bricks and other missiles thrown at officers. Read the full story here 12:54 PM BST First person convicted after Rotherham rioting Joshua Simpson, a self-employed builder, has become the first person to be convicted following the rioting in Rotherham after he admitted assaulting a police officer. Sheffield magistrates court heard how Simpson, 25, was abusive to police before he kicked a riot shield, forcing it back on to an officers leg. A deputy district judge was told that the incident happened as those involved in Sundays disorder were dispersing and that Simpson turned up by himself in the evening after seeing the incident unfold on a video. The defendant admitted one count of assault of an emergency worker. He was remanded in custody by deputy district judge Simon Blakebrough who asked for a pre-sentence report to be prepared before he is sentenced on Aug 27. The judge said he could not rule out sending Simpson, who said he is currently homeless, to prison. 12:42 PM BST Masked and armed protesters will face full force of law, says Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, the Justice Secretary, has said masked and armed protesters will face the full force of the law when causing violent disorder. Writing on X, formerly Twitter, she said: It doesn't matter who you are or what you're protesting if you turn up in a mask, with a weapon, intent on causing disorder, you will face the full force of the law. To those working with police and community organisations with pride and civic duty - you are the best of us. Shabana Mahmood MP (@ShabanaMahmood) August 6, 2024 11:58 AM BST James Cleverly criticises Sir Keir Starmers standing army announcement James Cleverly, the shadow home secretary, has criticised Sir Keir Starmers announcement of a standing army of public order police to deal with the rioting. The Tory frontbencher posted on X: Labour still dont understand that theyre not in opposition any more. In government you cant just say stuff, you have to do stuff. He went on to pose a series of questions about the plan, including: Using the word army always sounds tough but is he suggesting a paramilitary police force? What new or additional powers will the unit have? Police forces across the UK have officers who are public order trained, but when not dealing with disorder they have other police duties. Will this standing army of officers have no other duties? If so, what will they do when there are no riots? Or is Starmer expecting permanent riots? 11:53 AM BST Should the latest riots be classed as terrorism Politicians must not rush to class the riots that have erupted across Britain as terrorism, the Governments independent reviewer of terror legislation has said. Jonathan Hall KC said caution must be exercised when invoking terrorism powers to a live incident as you may end up with finger pointing at one group. Should the riots be classed as terrorism? Have your say below: Click here to view this content. 11:51 AM BST Eight arrested last night as riots entered seventh day Eight people were arrested last night as violent riots across the UK entered their seventh day. Three police officers were injured when far-Right and anti-racism groups clashed in Plymouth, with six people arrested. There were also disturbances outside a mosque in Darlington, where one person was detained. In Birmingham, hundreds of Muslims, including men in balaclavas and masks, gathered around a local mosque and shops amid rumours of a planned march by the far-Right. Meanwhile, in Belfast, riot officers were pelted with stones and petrol bombs and at least one police car was burned. The Police Service of Northern Ireland said one 15-year-old had been arrested 11:03 AM BST Police clash with rioters in Plymouth Click here to view this content. 10:39 AM BST Police appeal to identify rioters who attacked dog Staffordshire Police is appealing for help to identify rioters who attacked a police dog with a brick. Vixen suffered a nasty gash and required medical treatment after she was hit in the eye with the object, the force said. Six officers were also injured while responding to violent disorder in Tamworth and Stoke-on-Trent. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Staffordshire Police said: We need your help to identify those responsible for striking one of our police dogs with a brick and injuring six officers in the violent disorder in Tamworth and Stoke-on-Trent. Vixen was bravely trying to stop one of the thugs when she was struck above her right eye with a brick. She suffered a nasty gash and required medical treatment. She is now recovering at home and expected to return to work in a couple of days. Police appeal to identify protesters who attacked dog 10:32 AM BST Pictured: Yvette Cooper at Downing Street Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, leaves Downing Street this morning - Paul Grover 10:17 AM BST Rioters defile the flag that they wrap themselves in, says Archbishop of Canterbury People involved in violent riots on the streets in the past week defile the flag that they wrap themselves in, the Archbishop of Canterbury has said. Justin Welby condemned the criminal violence seen in parts of the UK, which has involved attacks on mosques, assaults on police officers, and looting of shops. The Church of England leader spoke of manipulation through social media and by people abroad, which he said must be strongly resisted. He did not mention names but several other critics have condemned Tommy Robinson, the former English Defence League leader, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, for stoking tensions online while out of the country. Mr Welby said people are being used in a ridiculous, appalling and immoral way as he spoke of the misinformation which had spread around the identity of the suspect in the Southport stabbings on July 29. 10:12 AM BST Holiday Inn calls for calm after attacks on hotels housing asylum seekers The owner of Holiday Inn has called for calm following attacks on several of its UK hotels housing asylum seekers over the weekend. A spokesperson for InterContinental Hotels Group said on Tuesday: This is a troubling and challenging situation, and we hope for calm to be restored as soon as possible. The safety and security of our colleagues and anyone staying in our hotels is always our priority. We continue to work closely with the authorities at a small number of properties, and the Home Office are in the best position to answer further questions. 09:54 AM BST Rioter bitten on backside by police dog cries in court A rioter who was bitten on the backside by a police dog cried in court as he admitted violent disorder. At another court, a burglar who raided a library in one of Britains most deprived neighbourhoods said: Nice one, lad as he was led down to the cells. A 14-year-old boy was watched by his father and uncle as he pleaded guilty to violent disorder after setting off fireworks at members of the public. The convictions came as the first wave of suspects arrested following mass riots across the country appeared in court for the first time. Read the full story here. 09:28 AM BST Officers attacked with petrol bombs in Belfast The Police Service of Northern has said its officers came under sustained attack from multiple petrol bombs, heavy masonry and bricks in south Belfast over a number of hours on Monday night. Petrol was also poured over a police Land Rover and set alight, though the occupants of the vehicle were not physically harmed and remained on duty. Police deployed two attenuating energy projectiles (AEPs) with one rioter struck on the hand. Meanwhile, a man in his 30s is in a serious condition in hospital after being attacked in the Donegall Road and Oban Street area in a suspected hate crime. Police said witnesses reported seeing his attackers stamp on his head as members of the public attempted to shield him from further attack. A 15-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour and remained in police custody on Tuesday morning. 09:16 AM BST Politicians must not rush to class riots as terrorism, says Governments independent reviewer of terror legislation Politicians must not rush to class the riots that have erupted across Britain as terrorism amid fears it could be escalatory, the Governments independent reviewer of terror legislation has said. Jonathan Hall KC said caution must be exercised when invoking terrorism powers to a live incident as you may end up with finger pointing at one group. Speaking to BBC Radio 4s Today programme, he said: I think that you need to be cautious about applying counterterrorism in effectively a live incident, it could be escalatory and youll end up with finger pointing. One group will start saying well if youre calling these people terrorists, why dont you call these people terrorists. 09:11 AM BST Six people to appear in court, says South Yorkshire Police South Yorkshire Police said six people, including two boys aged 16 and 17, would appear in court today charged in connection with the violence in Rotherham on Sunday. They are all due before Sheffield magistrates court. A spokesman for the force said: Lee Crisp, 42, of Mount Road, Grimethorpe, Christopher Rodgers, 38, of Millmoor Road, Barnsley and Liam Grey, 20, of Randerson Drive are charged with violent disorder. Two boys aged 16 and 17, who cant be named for legal reasons, are also charged with violent disorder. Joshua Simpson, 26, of Sherbrook Street, Lincoln, is charged with violent disorder and assault of an emergency worker. They are all due to appear in Sheffield magistrates court today (Tuesday 6 August). Curtis Coulson, 30, of Water Slacks Road, Sheffield is charged with affray. He appeared before Sheffield magistrates court yesterday (Monday 5 August). He has been remanded into custody until his next court appearance on Friday (9 August). 08:37 AM BST Government will take very robust approach to riots, says justice minister The Government will take a very robust approach to social media firms in the wake of the riots, Heidi Alexander said. The justice minister told Sky News: The idea that you can sit behind a computer screen or sit behind the screen of your mobile phone and somehow think that that protects you from the law is for the birds. So we will take a very robust approach to the social media companies, I know that Peter Kyle the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology is already in conversation with them. There has been some welcome action where there has been automated removal of some false information, but I do think the social media companies could and should be doing more. They have got a moral responsibility not to be propagating and disseminating misleading and inflammatory content on their platforms. 08:34 AM BST Courts could start sitting through night, says justice minister Courts sitting through the night to swiftly see rioters in the dock is something that could possibly start taking place across England, Heidi Alexander said. The justice minister told LBC Radio: The additional courts protocol is something that could possibly be invoked in different regions of the UK if the chief police officer and the chief prosecutor in that area decide that they want it. They make an application to the judiciary and so the judiciary indicated yesterday that they would be willing to consider any of those requests. It would mean that in the magistrates courts there could be longer sittings, sittings through the evening, the night, at weekends. Ms Alexander told LBC new prison places would come into use next week at HMP Stocken, Rutland, and also said spaces at Cookham Wood Young Offenders Institution in Kent would be used for adult prisoners. Asked if rioters could be charged under terrorism laws, the minister said: Charging decisions are for the Crown Prosecution Service. There will be a range of offences that have been committed, as I said both on the streets and online. 08:17 AM BST Pictured: Police come under attack during protests in Belfast Sandy Row and Donegall Road where police came under attack during further disorder in south Belfast - Kelvin Boyes Sandy Row and Donegall Road where police came under attack during further disorder in south Belfast 08:13 AM BST Starmer clashes with Musk over UK riot remarks Elon Musk and Sir Keir Starmer have clashed after the tech boss claimed that Britain was heading for civil war. The billionaire owner of X, formerly Twitter, provoked a row with Downing Street over the riots that have engulfed UK cities amid accusations that social media is fuelling the unrest. Read the full story here. 08:12 AM BST One arrested following violent disorder in Darlington On Monday evening there were disturbances outside a mosque in the North Lodge Park area of Darlington. Far-Right supporters who had gathered in the area clashed with counter protesters before police came under attack. A spokesman for Durham Constabulary said: One person has been arrested following violent disorder in Darlington last night. Officers were deployed to the North Lodge Park area after two large groups of mostly males had gathered shortly after 9pm, resulting in small pockets of serious violence. 08:03 AM BST Justice minister says 500 more prison places available to deal with rioters Heidi Alexander, the justice minister, said the Government had brought more than 500 additional prison places into use to deal with rioting, and some 6,000 specialist police officers were at the ready. She told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: We will make sure that anyone who is given a custodial sentence as a result of the riots and disorder, there will be a prison place waiting for them. What we have been able to do in the last week since the problems have arisen is that we have been able to bring forward some additional prison places that we had been due to bring on stream later in the month. There are 567 additional prison places. 07:33 AM BST Criticism of Elon Musk civil war comments mount Ministers continued to criticise Elon Musk for claiming civil war in the UK is inevitable as rioting continues. Heidi Alexander, the justice minister, told Times Radio: I agree with what the spokesperson on behalf of the Prime Minister was saying yesterday. I do think these comments are unjustifiable. If you have got a platform, a large social media platform, then you have also got a responsibility. I think it is deeply irresponsible, I think everyone should be appealing for calm. Use of language such as a civil war is in no way acceptable. We are seeing police officers being seriously injured, buildings set alight, and so I really do think that everyone who has a platform should be exercising their power responsibly. 07:32 AM BST Police injured in Plymouth as protests enter seventh day Police officers have been injured during sustained violence in Plymouth as disorder continued for a seventh day after the Southport stabbings with more than 370 arrests made so far. Devon and Cornwall Police said six arrests were made in Plymouth on Monday after several officers sustained minor injuries and two members of the public were taken to hospital. It came after bricks and fireworks were launched towards officers who had attempted to keep rival demonstrations apart in the Devon port city. In Southport, hundreds of people attended a peaceful vigil a week on from the murders of Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar. Police forces had already mobilised 4,000 trained public order officers, with 2,200 more expected to come - Peter Powell/AFP Thousands more specialist riot officers have been put on standby amid fears that far-Right groups could target more than 30 centres offering immigration services across Britain. Police forces had already mobilised 4,000 trained public order officers to deal with the violence and disorder sweeping the country. With the unrest showing no sign of abating, police leaders have boosted the numbers by an extra 2,200 officers. They will be on standby across the country and can be mobilised to support colleagues locally and regionally. The move comes amid fears that far-Right mobs are planning to target dozens of law centres that specialise in helping people with asylum applications. James Cleverly, a former home secretary and Conservative leadership candidate, demanded to know where the extra officers would come from, writing on X, formerly Twitter: Using the word army always sounds tough, but is he suggesting a paramilitary police force? What new or additional powers will the unit have? Police forces across the UK have officers who are public order trained, but when not dealing with disorder they have other police duties. Will this standing army of officers have no other duties? If so, what will they do when there are no riots? Or is Starmer expecting permanent riots? With the unrest showing no sign of abating, police leaders have boosted the numbers by an extra 2,200 officers - Ioannis Alexopoulos/Anadolu A list of at least 39 centres offering immigration services across England is believed to have circulated among far-Right groups, with affected immigration practitioners have been advised to consult security firms and work from home if possible. On Tuesday, the Law Society of England and Wales confirmed that it had alerted the police and sent a letter to the Prime Minister, Home Secretary and Lord Chancellor about the list. Nick Emmerson, its president, said he was seriously concerned about the threats. We also advised them of the small steps they can take if they are concerned about their safety at work, Mr Emmerson said. These included reviewing the security measures they have in place, consider consulting a security firm for advice, making security personnel aware of any threatening behaviour and attacks on staff, among other advice. One police force put out a statement warning that the address of a vulnerable pensioners home had been circulated online and marked as a target on the list. In a post on X, Nottinghamshire Police wrote: We are aware of a potential protest being organised in Nottingham on Wednesday evening. The location has no links to the business advertised on the internet. Officers have visited the address, and it is home to an elderly person with vulnerabilities. It has no links whatsoever to any immigration business. We would strongly advise that those wishing to attend any protest in this location refrain from doing so, as this is an elderly persons home address. Click here to view this content. Zoe Bantleman, the legal director of the Immigration Law Practitioners Association, said: The recent far-Right violence and riots may intend to divide us, to vilify migrants, people racialised as migrants, and those of us who represent them. We will not bow to these tactics of intimidation. We will respond with solidarity, and it is that which strengthens the legal community in the face of adversity. We may need to adapt our ways of working, and we have encouraged members to take precautions to safeguard their well-being, but we will not be discouraged from doing our jobs providing equal access to justice and upholding the rule of law. On Tuesday, the Metropolitan Police vowed to protect London from the disorder. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine, in charge of the policing operation, said: This country is faced with one of the worst spates of violent disorder in the last decade. This is a national critical incident, and we will do everything in our power to protect London and its communities. We know about the events planned by hateful and divisive groups across the capital tomorrow night. Theyve made their intention to cause disruption and division very clear. The scenes of racist, thuggish and criminal behaviour across the country have been deeply shocking. We will not tolerate this on our streets. We will use every power, tactic and tool available to prevent further scenes of disorder. An office manager at an immigration advisory service said he felt very, very scared and very upset about the threats his workplace has received. A solicitor whose family firm practises immigration law said they would be working from home for the foreseeable future as a result of threats, adding: For us, were mostly concerned about our clients, because our clients come from war-torn countries. If were not in the office, we cant provide enough service they need. Theres only so much we can do from home most of our clients are quite vulnerable. Mark Goldring, the director of Asylum Welcome in Oxford, which provides advice and support to asylum seekers and refugees, said: Obviously we were very concerned but we were even more concerned about the events of last week and the weekend, both in Southport but also in asylum hotels and cities across England. So alarm levels were rising among our clients, volunteers and staff even before we knew of the specific targeting we learned of yesterday. A Holiday Inn Express housing asylum seekers in Rotherham, Yorkshire was badly damaged by far-right rioters over the weekend. Photograph: Mark Waugh/The Guardian Outside the asylum seeker hotel, the far-right mob are baying get them out while hurling rocks, fireworks and other missiles. Behind the hotel windows, those who live there cower in terror. But this was not the scene outside the asylum seeker hotel in Rotherham that was attacked by far-right thugs on Sunday, nor in Hull on Saturday. This happened outside the Suites hotel in Knowsley on 10 February 2023. The far-right tactics havent changed much between then and now. The Home Office policy of housing tens of thousands of asylum seekers in hotels has made them a soft and visible target. Related: A dark day: anger in Rotherham after riot at hotel housing asylum seekers In the case of Knowsley, the trigger was a video of questionable origin purporting to show an asylum seeker propositioning an alleged schoolgirl , assisted by days of leafleting before the disturbances by the far-right group Patriotic Alternative. This time, false rumours appeared online that the suspect in an attack on children in Southport had recently arrived in the UK on a small boat, when in fact he had been born in Cardiff. The far-right organisation Britain First has been targeting asylum seeker hotels since 2020, initially simply barging in, banging on bedroom doors and demanding to know whether they were paying for their accommodation. The Home Office subsequently stepped up security at hotels, but despite many social media posts about the far right intending to gather in the car park of the Rotherham hotel, the damage was not prevented. One asylum seeker, who had been living in the hotel for five months, said he and others had been aware of undercurrents of hostility, with white people shouting racist abuse from their cars as the asylum seekers walked down the street. We faced this abuse many times, he said. Before the weekend, we were told not to leave the hotel and to stay away from the windows. It was terrifying when they broke through the hotel gate and got into the hotel. They caused so much damage and some of them threatened to kill us. I am glad we have been moved to a safer place. One of the people at the Hull hotel said that the inhabitants were now very fearful. They added: Before Saturday the hotel and the area outside it was a place where we felt safe. We would leave the hotel and go out to appointments and come back to the hotel at the end of the day. And we never felt threatened. Now everything has changed. We are afraid to go out from the hotel because we fear we will be attacked in the next five minutes. If they think we look as if we are Muslim will they target us? We want to say to the British people how very sorry we are about the death of the children at the dance class in Southport. We hope the person who committed that crime will be brought to justice. We are crying for those children but we are sad to see all this violence against asylum seekers after this terrible thing happened. This crime was not connected to us. A refugee from Afghanistan who also lives in Hull was horrified to see the far-right rallies in the centre of town on Saturday. They said: They were shouting that asylum seekers should go back to our countries and that they wanted to take back this country for English people. There were about 150 of the protesters and they lit a fire in the road and destroyed the wall of a mosque. Many of them wore masks so I could not see their faces. Steve Smith, the chief executive of Care4Calais, a refugee charity that works with asylum seekers in hotels in many cities across the UK, said: Our volunteers are supporting asylum seekers across the country who are feeling frightened and isolated as they watch far-right thugs engage in what can only be described as race riots. We are in no doubt that the targeting of asylum accommodation is part of a concerted racist endeavour by these groups to sow hatred and division in our communities. But deliberate fire-raising at asylum accommodation, while residents and staff are known to be inside, goes way beyond the violence, vandalism and racist chanting that has already been condemned it is attempted murder. Care4Calais, and many others, will stand beside refugees in this country and will not allow far-right hate to win. The refugee from Afghanistan said: I was so frightened when I saw the far-right protesters in the middle of Hull on Saturday but I know that these people are just a small minority and that the British people are very kind and nice people. When I think about the racists and feel scared I tell myself to remember that. People cheer as the Democratic vice-presidential nominee, Tim Walz, departs from his governors residence in St Paul on Tuesday. Photograph: Stephen Maturen/Getty Images Minnesota Democrats were thrilled to see one of their own win the most public veepstakes in recent memory, after the states Democratic governor, Tim Walz, branded Donald Trump and his allies as weird and sold the story of how Democrats govern, based on what he has done in Minnesota. Terryann Nash, an American Sign Language teacher at a local school who lives across the street from Walzs residence, was excited to see a fellow teacher on the ticket. Even as a governor, hes always come back to the schools. Hes always been in touch with the teachers. I feel like weve got a well-represented voice and a very good heart, she said. Related: Kamala Harris VP pick may signal a shift away from pivoting to the center | Moira Donegan Ken Martin, the chair of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor party and a longtime friend of Walz, said it was bittersweet that his longtime friend could be leaving the state, but that was a selfish thought. Im proud to be able to share him with the rest of the country, and to be able to have him take a little bit of this Minnesota nice and Minnesota magic that we have and export it out to the rest of the country and help do some of the things we did here around the nation, Martin said. On Tuesday, television cameras lined the street outside Walzs residence in St Paul, Minnesota, and journalists explained to viewers how their governor had, in a surprising and fast rise, been tapped as the Democratic vice-presidential pick. At midday, people on their walks and bike rides slowed down, trying to figure out what was happening that required so many cameras. Some took photos of the house, with grins on their faces. A car drove by, honking excitedly at the people gathered. In Minnesota, Walz is obviously fairly well-known: he is the governor. Hes also the chair of the Democratic Governors Association, a position that has put him in some national circles to boost Democrats in office. But until the 2023 legislative session, in which Minnesota Democrats used their trifecta to pass a wave of liberal policies and captured attention far beyond the state, his national profile was low-key. It wasnt until recently that clips of him on TV went viral, as did old photos and videos that people dug up to show he could cuddle pigs at the state fair and sign legislation to help schoolchildren. Until those TV clips, his internet fame was mild. He came out of nowhere in the veepstakes, surprising many as he was chosen on Tuesday. As one former local reporter put it on X, when he started covering Congress in 2015, Amy Klobuchar was on all the VP/2020 lists, Al Franken was on the rise, Keith Ellison was a national leader of the left, and Tim Walz was just the nice guy who beat them at the annual Hotdish Competition. (His hot dish recipe, the turkey trot tater tot hot dish, won him the 2014 Minnesota Congressional Delegation Hotdish Off, the Minneapolis Star Tribune notes in its publication of the recipe. If youre new to Walz, or hot dish, give it a try, the paper wrote. We promise, it doesnt taste weird.) His experience as a teacher could help bring together different factions to work on issues rather than give in to division, Nash said. His branding of weird shows hes in touch with younger people, but his passion for teaching shows he has the ability to connect, she said. Hes been a teacher, so hes like the dad of everybody, Nash said. Im a teacher, so you got to be diplomatic. You got to recognize where some people are, and you got to kind of meet them where theyre at. Theres arguably no state in the country thats done more legislatively than Minnesota in the past few years, said Martin, who has known the governor since Walz started volunteering on John Kerrys presidential campaign in 2004, when he was a teacher in Mankato, Minnesota. That record helped sell Walz to Harris, alongside his personal story as a teacher and veteran from small-town America, he said. He didnt enter politics until his mid-40s. This is not a guy who spent most of his life growing up hoping to be vice-president of the United States, or even governor or congressman here, Martin said. Martin recalled how, when Democrats won both chambers of the legislature with just a one-seat majority in the state senate, Walz said they should not bank power for some later date, but use the power they won to make the biggest difference possible while they have it. Sheletta Brundidge, a childrens book author and activist, was at the Walz house to send him off on Tuesday morning. She had a copy of an op-ed she recently wrote in the Minneapolis Star Tribune, where she shared how Walz would be an ally of Black women and have the humility to be the second name on the ticket. In the op-ed, she detailed how she was hesitant to get the Covid-19 vaccine, but changed her mind, only to be met with threats from anti-vaxxers. Walz helped her get extra security and was there as she got the shot. It showed her he knew how to support Black women. Now the Black woman is on top. She is the presidential candidate, Brundidge said. So its going to take a special kind of humility that white men have not traditionally had to support her. She is Gladys Knight. He got to be a Pip. Brundidge has four kids, three of whom have autism. She moved in Minnesota to access services that had long waitlists in Texas, and she has seen her children respond positively, attributing it to the states emphasis on early education. I moved so that I could have a better quality of life for my children. More than anything, Im grateful to him for that, she said. Brundidge said her phone had been blowing up thanks to people who know her connection with Walz. Shes proud and excited to see him elevated to the national stage. People have been texting me like I got nominated for vice-president congratulations, were so excited for you because they understand and know what this means, she said. It puts the spotlight on our state and all the wonderful and amazing things that we have going on here. The study also found that more badgers were vaccinated than the numbers culled on nearby land, even though far less time was spent on vaccination. Photograph: Camera Lucida/Alamy A large-scale vaccination programme could help eradicate bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in badgers, according to a first-of-its-kind study with really promising results for cattle farmers, whose herds have been devastated by the disease. Over four years, researchers vaccinated 265 badgers across 12 farms in Cornwall. They found the percentage of badgers testing positive for bTB fell from 16% to zero. Its the best result you could get from a small study, said the lead researcher, Prof Rosie Woodroffe, from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). The results are really promising but wed want to see it replicated over a larger area. Vaccination could provide an alternative solution to the problem of badgers infecting cattle with bTB an issue that has prompted highly controversial mass culls, with more than 210,000 badgers killed since 2013. Despite more than a decade of culling badgers in England, there is no scientific consensus on whether it has reduced bTB, with several studies finding it had no positive impact. Related: Farming industry to blame for TB crisis, not just badgers report The badger cull formed a central pillar of the Conservative governments efforts to reduce TB in cattle, despite the lack of scientific evidence for the policy. The Labour government said it would end the badger cull, although it is not clear when that will be enacted. The vaccination project was initiated and partly funded by farmers in Cornwall. It was the first of its kind in that it was led by farmers and involved testing the blood of badgers to assess whether bTB was declining. Researchers vaccinated badgers over an area of 11 sq km (4.3 sq miles). According to the new study, published in People and Nature, 74% of badgers in the area received the vaccine. Woodroffe said: We showed it could be done, and you could catch enough badgers. Then we looked at if it was effective, and it was. And then we looked at if it was acceptable, and the farmers are absolutely delighted, because they can see a real difference. It is uncertain if the pilot vaccination reduced TB in cattle in the area, and this is a subject for future research. The main cause of TB in cattle is other cows scientists estimate that about 94% of infections are passed from cow to cow, with less than 6% of infections transmitted to cows by badgers. Bovine TB has been devastating for farmers: 20,000 cattle were slaughtered in the 12 months to September 2023. Keith Truscott, founder of the Mid Cornwall Badger Vaccination Farmers Group and a co-author of the report, said: We need a solution to tackle bovine tuberculosis; as a cattle farmer, Im living with the constant worry that one of our cows might test positive for the disease, so doing nothing is not an option. I sleep better at night knowing that there are people out there working to eradicate the disease through vaccination, he said. Landowners said they would like to continue the vaccination programme beyond the original four years of the study. Farmers had been concerned that the vaccine might reach too few badgers and be too expensive. However, researchers wrote in the paper: Our findings show that badger vaccination was practically achievable. The numbers of badgers vaccinated per square kilometre a year were higher than the numbers culled on nearby land, even though vaccination was conducted for only two nights per location while culling operations extended over at least six weeks. Related: Frog saunas could save species from deadly fungal disease, study finds Prof James Wood, a veterinary epidemiologist at Cambridge University, who was not involved in this study, said: These results provide very positive, albeit small-scale, findings in relation to the practicability of delivering badger vaccination against bovine TB. Dr Graham Smith, a lead scientist at the Animal and Plant Health Agency, part of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, who was also not involved in the study, said the research demonstrated the feasibility of vaccination. A reduction in TB in cattle would be a logical consequence of disease reduction in badgers, where they are contributing, he said. The project was a collaboration between farmers in Cornwall and researchers from ZSL, Imperial College London and Cornwall Wildlife Trust. They are now calling on the government to fund more research on community-led badger vaccinations. Hybrid work is now the most common type of working arrangement, with many people saying a mix of in-office and home-working makes them happier, healthier and more productive than if they were in the office five days a week. But there are still issues to be worked out, including the logistics and organisation involved when youve got more than one workplace aka, the coordination tax. The coordination tax faced by hybrid workers is the idea that hybrid workers may be in the office on different days. This means there is additional coordination required to plan a working week and meet with colleagues, says Elyssa Desai, a careers and mindset expert, speaker and coach who has advised clients including Snapchat and Sweaty Betty. When youve got two workplaces to maintain, it can add an additional layer of stress. You have to think about who you need to meet on your in-office days, taking your laptop to-and-from work, remembering what else you need to bring, and planning your travel. Read more: Why monitoring workers with AI won't boost performance Having to plan which days to be at the office definitely increases cognitive load, says Desai. Navigating your personal life around which days to be in and then coordinating with your colleagues can become stressful and tiring. Finding time for meetings in busy schedules can be challenging enough without having to factor in who is going to be in the office at the same time as you. You may want to collaborate on a project in person, but you can end up with some colleagues in the room and some dialling in, she adds. It can be hard to know whether people are in the office on a particular day or not. Additionally, Ruth Wood, director of Resonate Leadership and host of Frustrated and Exhausted, adds that the plethora of communication apps and technologies adopted during the COVID pandemic hasn't helped and adds to decision fatigue. There are also fewer in-person interactions, which can make it harder to resolve disagreements between colleagues and rebuild trust this can raise stress levels significantly and lead to worsening performance of individuals and teams. A plethora of work communication apps, many of which were introduced during COVID, can lead to decision fatigue. (Aja Koska via Getty Images) Many workers report that hybrid arrangements can be exhausting. In a global study by employee engagement platform Tinypulse, more than 80% of people leaders reported that part-time office work is exhausting for employees. Workers also stated that hybrid work was more emotionally draining than being fully remote or in the office full-time. However, flexibility offers clear benefits for those who want a better work-life balance, and especially for parents who need the adaptability to juggle caring responsibilities with work. And, given 91% of businesses in the UK have hybrid workers, its even more important to address the challenges of splitting your time between the office and home. So what can employers do to make hybrid work schedules easier for workers? For jobs that can be done fully remotely, allowing people to work from home full-time may give them more control over their time and schedules. However, this requires a mindset shift for employers, who need to trust that their staff can get things done without being watched. It might also require more thought about how a team can come together remotely, for example, by using online conferencing tools. Making use of remote or hybrid tools of which there are plenty as a result of the shift to home-working during the pandemic is also important. However, employers need to be clear about what technology should be used to avoid miscommunication, lost messages and the frustration that comes with switching between different platforms like Teams, Zoom, Slack and email. Hybrid work can still be a good balance for workers, as long as they get a say in how they work and it isnt entirely dictated by the employer. Otherwise, employees end up with a working week that they have no control over, which can be as stressful as being forced to commute to an office every day. If workers are required to be in the office for two days a week, it should be for a clear reason. Read more: Why return to office mandates won't pay off for employers Employers can make things easier in a number of ways, says Wood. Have a very clear policy to start with so that everyone knows where they stand, ensure that individuals communicate obviously where they are on any given day well in advance, and ensure that meeting rooms are equipped for others to join remotely. Its also key to invest in relationship-building this is an absolute must to reduce the impact of conflict and toxic behaviours. For hybrid workers, organisation is crucial. Employers could create an anchor day, which is a set day each week where the whole team is in, says Desai. Individuals could then be encouraged to use this day for meetings and collaboration time where it would be beneficial to be in person. Consider how employees can share with each other which days they will be in, is there software you can use for this - or do individuals need to indicate this in their calendars? Ideally it would be easy for anyone to be able to check whether someone will be in the office on a particular day without having to message them, says Desai. She adds that it is important to keep speaking to employees about what is and isnt working for them. Regularly ask for feedback and see what can be improved, she says. For many companies it has only been a few years since most of their employees started to work in a hybrid way so be open to adapting and learning what works well and what doesnt for teams. Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android. Two Norwegian ships will join a Royal Navy aircraft carrier and other vessels on deployment to the Pacific next year, the Defence Secretary has announced. John Healey, who met his Norwegian counterpart, Bjorn Arild Gram, on Tuesday, said Norways involvement in the deployment was an exciting demonstration of the strength of our nations maritime partnership and the deepening of our relationship in the months and years to come. Norway will provide two vessels, including a frigate, as part of a carrier strike group led by HMS Prince of Wales. A carrier strike group is the name given to a battle group led by an aircraft carrier and including several escorts including submarines, surface ships and support vessels. A previous deployment saw the UKs HMS Queen Elizabeth lead a carrier strike group to the Indo-Pacific in 2021 (LPhot Dan Rosenbaum/MoD/PA) The group will sail to Japan and the wider Indo-Pacific for seven months in 2025 as part of efforts to uphold a free and open region and build partnerships with regional allies. It follows the deployment of a carrier strike group in European waters in 2023, which involved the Norwegian ship HNoMS Otto Sverdrup, and the involvement of another UK carrier strike group in 2024s Nato Exercise Steadfast Defender. Britains other aircraft carrier, HMS Queen Elizabeth, led a carrier strike group to the Indo-Pacific region in 2021, and the Royal Navy maintains a permanent presence in the region through offshore patrol vessels HMS Tamar and HMS Spey. Mr Healey said: This Government is determined to strengthen our partnerships with European allies to keep Britain secure at home and strong abroad. As a close strategic partner, we are delighted to have the Norwegian Navy join the Royal Navy on this historic deployment. During their meeting on Tuesday, the two defence ministers also discussed industrial collaboration, support for Ukraine and the need for de-escalation in the Middle East. Mr Gram said: The UK is Norways closest and most important European ally. We have a long-standing and very close defence relationship. With this joint deployment we are developing this co-operation even further. The Indo-Pacific is an area of growing importance for global security and stability, also for Europe. People who are racist to NHS staff in health settings can and should be turned away from care, the Health Secretary has said. Wes Streeting said the Government will not tolerate the continuation of violence seen in towns and cities across England in the aftermath of the Southport stabbings. In an interview with the PA news agency, Mr Streeting condemned the mindless thuggery seen on streets across Britain over the past week. And he said the people who attacked Filipino nurses in Sunderland had brought enormous shame on our country. The two nurses were attacked on Friday evening as they travelled to work to provide emergency cover during unrest in Sunderland. According to reports, the taxi they were travelling in was pelted with rocks. While the nurses were physically unharmed the Mirror reported they were left terrified by the ordeal. Speaking during a visit to the Leeds Cancer Centre, Mr Streeting told PA that the NHS has a zero tolerance approach to racism. The Government will not tolerate the continuation of this mindless thuggery by far-right agitators in our country, he said. I was appalled by reports of violence directed towards Filipino nurses in Sunderland these were nurses going into work to provide emergency care and their attackers bring shame on our flag and shame on our country. He added: I will not tolerate, under any circumstances, NHS or social care staff in any health or care setting being subjected to intimidation, harassment or racist abuse. We have a zero tolerance policy in the NHS and well take a zero tolerance approach in social care too. People who are abusing NHS staff can be turned away, and should be turned away, if that is the way that they are treating our staff. Mr Streeting continued: I think the overwhelming majority of people in our country are utterly disgusted and appalled by the racism and violence on display. I think we are lucky to have people in our NHS and social care sectors who come from around the world to provide great, compassionate care. I am proud that we have those people in Britain. I think the vast majority of Brits are too. And those people that have hijacked our flag for their mindless, racist thuggery they have no idea about this countrys history or heritage, and they have brought enormous shame on our country by attacking NHS staff in this way. Professor Nicola Ranger, general secretary and chief executive of the Royal College of Nursing, said: The Health Secretary has talked about his commitment to tackling any abuse of nursing staff and all health workers. Wes Streeting said that for him that this is grounds for turning away patients. We have updated the RCNs guidance on when and how our members can refuse to treat a patient in their care. This is the most difficult decision, and every situation and patient interaction is unique. I am demanding that Government ensures anybody targeting our members pays a very heavy price. Hearing that nurses going to work in Sunderland came under attack is unforgivable. Migrant nursing staff are precious members of our communities, hardwired into the very DNA of our health and care services. Our international colleagues are welcome, valued and owed a debt of gratitude. These scenes around the country are nothing short of despicable racism they have no place in our society. In a message to nursing staff across the country, she added: Your employer has a duty of care to keep you safe at work: whether thats a hospital or delivering care alone in community settings. Your organisation needs to act urgently to reassure nursing staff, review risk assessments and implement any measures necessary to keep you safe. @filipinonurseuk strongly condemns the recent racist attacks on our dedicated Filipino nurses in Sunderland. Our community has been an integral part of the NHS since 1969. We are united against racism and will continue to support our colleagues.#StopRacism pic.twitter.com/QNHHHt676d Filipino Nurses Association UK (@filipinonurseuk) August 5, 2024 It comes after GP leaders issued a warning to family doctors after reports that staff had been targeted during the attacks. Family doctors and their teams have been urged to remain vigilant, particularly when travelling to and from work, after reports of attacks on healthcare workers. The Royal College of GPs (RCGP) highlighted horrific and unacceptable abuse and violence towards healthcare workers, especially those from ethnic minorities. The RCGP urged staff to travel in groups where possible and to try to avoid areas where there is known unrest. Meanwhile, two GP surgeries in north-east London have said that they are planning to shut early on Wednesday because of potential unrest in the area. NHS England chief executive Amanda Pritchard also condemned the disorder, saying that the violence has left many NHS workers feeling afraid and unwelcome. Paramilitaries are suspected to have been an element in the latest disorder in Belfast. Police came under sustained attack and the victim of a suspected hate crime is in a serious condition in hospital after violence in Belfast on Monday night. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said at one stage petrol was poured over a police Land Rover and set alight. Police deployed two attenuating energy projectiles (AEPs), with one rioter struck on the hand. Speaking at a media facility today, T/ ACC Jones condemned the "horrendous scenes" in Belfast in recent days. The public can use this Major Incident Public Portal to share information or footage for the investigation: https://t.co/eff756wMgk Read : https://t.co/BzUnXvCqZn pic.twitter.com/urVpcNcH2U Police Service NI (@PoliceServiceNI) August 6, 2024 A 15-year-old boy has been charged with two counts of riot, and possession of a weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence, police said. He will appear before Belfast Magistrates Court on Wednesday. The latest violence began late on Monday in the same area where two businesses were attacked on Saturday following an anti-immigration protest. Political leaders have called for calm, and both the Stormont Executive and Assembly are set to meet later this week. On Tuesday evening, Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn said: The violence which has sowed fear in local communities and damaged businesses is totally unacceptable. The people of Northern Ireland deserve better. I urge those involved to stop this senseless violence and intimidation. Police said attempts were made to set fire to a supermarket which had been targeted on Saturday night, but officers were able to douse the small blaze before it developed. Speaking to the media during a press conference at PSNI headquarters on Tuesday, Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said she has no doubt there is a paramilitary element. She also described a difference in the disorder on Monday compared with Saturday, with younger adults appearing to be directed by older people. PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones speaks at PSNI headquarters in east Belfast (Rebecca Black/PA) We have an open mind as to who is orchestrating and organising this, she said. What we saw last night, we feel was different from what we saw on Saturday. On Saturday, we saw mainly older adult people who became involved in disorder. Last night it was clear to us that there was a younger element, teenagers mainly, who were involved in the disorder, but that there was an element of organisation and orchestration from what appeared to be older adults present at the scene. I have no doubt there is a paramilitary element to this, but I am not in a position to say that this is the main organiser or orchestrator of these events. However, we do keep an open mind to this and this will be part of our investigative strategy. She added: We have a widespread investigation ongoing both to deal with what we have seen happen but also to identify who is responsible for orchestrating, organising and stirring up violence and disorder in the background. We continue to work with colleagues from across the UK to make sure that we are picking up on anything which is relevant here from their investigations and their intelligence gathering. In terms of paramilitaries, we know that we have some elements still remaining in our communities that will use the history of Northern Ireland to stir up violence and promote division and intolerance, and we believe that that played some part in what we have seen in the last three days. Abdelkader, owner of Sham Supermarket in the Donegall Road area of south Belfast, outside his business after a second attempt to burn it during disorder in the area on Monday night (Rebecca Black/PA) However, we remain open-minded about other elements that are instigating and orchestrating those as well. Staff from the Sham Supermarket and supporters were at the scene on Tuesday morning counting the costs. Butcher Jamal Ghabes told the PA news agency: What can we say, nothing. Its very bad. I came from Syria to here. I didnt think I would see something like this. Im not sure if the shop will open again if we dont have support. A smaller protest had taken place on Monday evening in Belfast city centre. The PSNI said its officers came under sustained attack over a number of hours with multiple petrol bombs, heavy masonry and bricks thrown in their direction. Petrol was also poured over a police Land Rover and set alight. Thankfully the occupants of the vehicle were not physically harmed and remained on duty, the force said. Ms Jones said the man in his 50s who was assaulted in the area on Monday had been brutally attacked by a mob in what we are classifying as a hate motivated assault. Witnesses reported seeing his attackers stamp on his head as other decent members of the public attempted to shield him from further attack, she said. Police officers managed to get this man to safety and secure his medical treatment. He remains being treated in hospital at this time with serious injuries. Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said there is no justification whatsoever for this violence (Liam McBurney/PA) Police said that, at around 5pm on Monday, there was a protest and a counter-protest involving approximately 40 people in the area of Ormeau Avenue. Officers attended to ensure an appropriate and proportionate policing response, they said. A report was then made of criminal damage to a family home in the Pandora Street area with windows broken. A small group gathered at the junction of University Road/Bradbury Place before moving to Donegall Road. However, larger crowds gathered, with some masked rioters mounting attacks on officers. Ms Jones said the disorder, violence and destruction has no place in Belfast or anywhere else across the streets of Northern Ireland. We are engaging with groups that have been affected by this disorder and we are gathering evidence, CCTV and other footage to progress criminal investigations, she said. We are working at pace to identify offenders and make arrests. We are determined to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. Anyone who has information or who can help identify those responsible is asked to contact us on 101. DUP minister Gordon Lyons said there is no justification whatsoever for this violence, adding that he condemns it in the strongest possible terms. I want to send my thoughts to those who have been most affected. Those affected personally and those whose businesses have been affected as well, he told the BBCs Good Morning Ulster programme. A cafe in Donegall Road in south Belfast which was attacked at the weekend (Jonathan McCambridge/PA) There is never any justification for this type of violent behaviour. There is no justification for attack on the police and it needs to stop, and it needs to stop straight away, and Im glad that we do have united political leadership right across all parties on this in Northern Ireland. Asked about the motivation behind the original anti-immigration protest on Saturday, Mr Lyons said legitimate concerns should be heard but that there is no justification for violence. Certainly there are additional pressures on some public services in parts of Northern Ireland. Im aware there has been additional pressure put on the provision of housing. Overall across Northern Ireland that might be quite low around about 5% of homeless applications are as a result of those who have no accommodation in Northern Ireland but in some parts of Belfast in particular that number is much higher and local communities are feeling the impact of that, he said. Of course this is an issue which is being felt right across the UK and elsewhere. Let me be clear, that doesnt mean there is any justification for violence. If you have concerns, if you want to express those concerns, there are legitimate, peaceful and democratic ways in which you can do that. What I dont think we should do is downplay how some people are feeling about this issue. When we try to dismiss the legitimate concerns of people, it adds to the frustration that many people feel. Four men linked to disorder on Saturday appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court on Monday. The court heard that police believe more violence linked to planned anti-immigration protests is likely in Belfast in the coming days. A judge described scenes of disorder in the city at the weekend as absolutely disgraceful as he refused bail to the four men. People involved in violent riots on the streets in the past week defile the flag that they wrap themselves in, the Archbishop of Canterbury has said. Justin Welby condemned the criminal violence seen in parts of the UK, which has involved attacks on mosques, assaults on police officers, and looting of shops. The Church of England leader spoke of manipulation through social media and by people abroad, which he said must be strongly resisted. Tommy Robinson has faced criticism for stoking tensions online from abroad (Maja Smiejkowska/PA) He did not mention names but several other critics have condemned former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, for stoking tensions online while out of the country. Mr Welby said people are being used in a ridiculous, appalling and immoral way as he spoke of the misinformation which had spread around the identity of the suspect in the Southport stabbings on July 29. Asked what he would say to rioters, Mr Welby told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: This (violence) is not the United Kingdom. Its not British. Its not English. They defile the flag that they wrap themselves in. Calling on people to air concerns peacefully, he said: Violence and swearing in the face of police from a distance of two foot is never going to convince anyone. He said: Protest is good and is right and is fundamental to all our freedoms. But peaceful protest will have 1,000, 10,000 times the impact that this violence is having. This violence turns people away from your cause, whatever youre protesting about, and it is just criminal violence. Peaceful protest, peaceful statements will convince, will change peoples mind, will at the very least cause them to listen. Asked what he thinks is behind the incidents of the past week, he said there are a lot of reasons, noting significant deprivation in some areas. But he added that this does not in any way justify this violence. He said: We do need to re-look at how the benefits of our economy are shared right across everyone in need, and everyone in the country needs to gain from being one of the seven richest countries on Earth. Im not saying that being marginalised, which a lot of people are in historic areas of high unemployment, justifies violence quite the reverse. It does justify peaceful protest, and that will make people listen. Amid scenes of community clean-ups following some of the disorder, Mr Welby praised the extraordinary cohesion and caring for neighbours that is going on all around the country in the wake of these riots, adding that he believes trouble will die down very shortly. He said the Government has been responding extremely well through policing and clamping down through law and order, but called for medium and long-term reflection in the aftermath. He added that some of our politicians will always take an opportunity to cause trouble, but thats very, very few and far between. Actor Ryan Reynolds, his mother Tammy and Hugh Jackman have crashed an interview with Brandon Sklenar for his upcoming film It Ends With Us. In the video posted to Twitter, the trio can be seen pretending to interrogate Sklenar about his relationship with co-star and Reynolds wife, Blake Lively. The three start off suspicious of Sklenar, with Reynolds mum accusing him of trying to replace my sweet gummy bear Ryan, but once they leave they each begin to like him as they all conclude: What a wonderful guy. It Ends With Us is based on a novel of the same name by Colleen Hoover, and sees Sklenar and Lively play childhood lovers Lily Bloom and Atlas Corrigan. The promotional clip begins with Reynolds sitting down and telling Sklenar: Its not every day the husband gets to interview his wifes love interest. So I saw you posing in a photo with Mrs Reynolds, Im sorry what do you call her? Do you guys have a nickname or something? So I saw this photo, and its pretty suggestive, I got it right here, and Im going to get right to it. How do you explain that? Sklenar does not reply, and Reynolds begins to panic, and adds: Jesus Christ, my heart is beating like crazy right now. It reminds me of when I went on that meth journey. Later on Reynolds mother sits down and begins to read a series of questions to Sklenar, she says: Mum, its Ryan, I wrote all these questions, but dont tell Brandon. I didnt expect to love him so much, so dont f***** blow this for me. Oh my god that language. Tammy goes on to tell the 34-year-old actor she had stopped taking my blood thinner medication as if I cant have you, I dont want me. Sklenar replies: Mrs Reynolds, you should probably keep taking your medication, and Im a little worried about your son. Like hes for sure addicted to meth. She then asks him: Did you know that Ryan lost his father in 2015? The Deadpool star returns and interrupts his mother to say: Ryan would love to have a new dad, to have a catch, and I think he could really use a man in his life, Hugh is no spring chicken any more. Blink once for yes, or blink once for Id love to be your new dad. Reynolds then shakes the piece of paper with the questions on it at Reynolds and shouts he blinked. Then finally Jackman appears in the interviewers chair and tells Sklenar: Ive never done an interview before, but Ive done a lot of things, like crazy things in Australia. You do understand you cant even get into pre-school unless you take a persons life with your own bare hands, twice. So listen, Ive just got one question, what are you doing messing with my best buddys wife? The camera then cuts to the three together behind the scenes talking about what a nice guy Sklenar is. It Ends With Us is due to be released in the UK on Friday, August 9. Increasing your skills for digital literacy can help you spot and avoid misinformation. (Getty Images) (Getty Images) Social media can be a great place for people to learn and connect with one another. However, in recent weeks, it has become more difficult to navigate and differentiate between whats real and what isnt. Experts have dubbed the rapid spread of false, misleading and manipulative information - also known as fake news - as the age of misinformation. The rising popularity of artificial intelligence (AI) has added fuel to the flames of misinformation, and is making it harder to decipher the truth. Britons have been facing the consequences of rampant false information that spread quickly online since the mass stabbing that occurred during a holiday dance class in Southport on 29 July, which resulted in the deaths of three young girls. Following the attack, riots have broken out across England. The unrest was fuelled by false information that spread on social media about the attackers name and identity. The viral posts falsely claimed the attacker was a Muslim migrant who entered the UK by crossing the Channel on a small boat. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said on Monday 5 August - following a weekend of violence that saw over 400 arrests - that social media platforms "put rocket boosters" under "misinformation [and] the encouragement of violence". Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also condemned the riots. He guaranteed that those who participated in the violence "whether directly or those whipping up this action online and then running away themselves" will "regret" doing so. Elsewhere, misinformation has also played a part in the gender controversy against Olympic boxers Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-Ting. Both boxers faced false claims that they were men or transgender, including comments from public figures like JK Rowling and Donald Trump. Three types of false information you need to know about False information can look very convincing and be difficult to identify. (Getty Images) (Getty Images/iStockphoto) There are three types of false information that are commonly spread online. They are: Misinformation: Fake news that is created and spread by people who dont realise it is false Disinformation: Fake news created and spread by people who know it is false and intend for it to cause trouble Malinformation: Information that is based on fact but removed from its original context in order to mislead, harm and manipulate In order for individuals to begin identifying misinformation and verifying what they see online, there are two crucial skills to acquire, according to Caroline Carruthers, data expert and co-founder of global data consultancy Carruthers and Jackson. These skills include critical thinking and digital literacy. Many people need help acquiring these skills and it can be hindered by how we tend to say in "information bubbles" without realising it, Carruthers explains. "A lot of people don't really understand how the algorithms in social media work. They feeds us things they think we want to see, hence why were in an information bubble," she says. "It makes it pretty easy for someone whos trying to feed us misinformation, because the simplest way of doing it is to drop in something that looks similar to something we would normally read, but then it takes us off in other directions." Vonny Gamot, Head of EMEA at online protection company McAfee, adds: "Combatting disinformation requires a concerted effort from individuals, media organisations, tech companies, and governments to promote media literacy, fact-checking, transparency, and responsible information sharing. "What's most important is that consumers are armed with the capabilities to tell fact from fiction, and that they themselves take a moment to pause and verify information before sharing anything online." How is false information created and consumed? Social media is a great way to connect with others, but is also rife with misinformation and fake news. (Getty Images) (Getty Images) There are many reasons why fake news gets disseminated on social media platforms. One reason, Carruthers says, is that the creators are trying to get access to an individuals personal information. "Theyre trying to get us to click on something which would give them back door access into the stuff were reading or looking at, or into our banking information. So its for nefarious means." Another reason is that the creator is trying to get readers to "think in a different way". "So, depending on your political views, you could say, Are you trying to inform me or are you trying to misinform me?" Gamot adds: "Much of this disinformation is consumed passively as people scroll through reams of content, so its often absorbed and accepted without meaningful interrogation. "I think the increase in disinformation that were seeing is quite simply down to the ease of sharing content online. Social media channels are all incredibly accessible and easy to use, and they allow information whether accurate or not, to be spread to a global audience, fast. "Recent advances in AI have also created an environment where fake news can be created and distributed even more rapidly, and its getting harder and harder to discern whats real and what isnt. In fact, a McAfee study found that just one in five Brits find it easy to spot AI-generated content such as fake news and scams on social media." Because of the information bubbles we live in, social media platforms are more likely to serve up content thats "aligned to things that we already believe", making us prone to confirmation bias, Carruther says. "People really must ask themselves if what they see online is telling them the truth or just pushing them in a certain direction." How to spot false information online Be aware The first step to being able to recognise misinformation is to be aware of your online world, Carruthers advises. "Being aware that there are information bubbles, reading up on whats possible, understanding what clickbait is, what deep fakes are - these are important ways to increase your digital literacy. "Educate yourself on the types of scams out there and have a look at examples of things that have been deliberately misspelt in an effort to deceive you. Some people that are trying to misinform you can literally misspell one letter and put an e where an a would be and your mind might not pick it up - so be very, very careful." Always verify Both Carruthers and Gamot also encourage people to verify sources before sharing information. You can do this by cross checking information with multiple different sources. "If its coming from just one source, its probably not true," Carruthers says. Make use of fact-checking tools, such as Full Fact, and check reputable news sources to validate information before passing it along to your friends and family. Look at details When it comes to discerning if AI is involved, Gamot advises people to be cautious of distorted images, as fabricated images and videos arent perfect. "If you look closely, you can often spot the difference between real and fake. For example, AI-created art often adds extra fingers or creates faces that look blurry," he explains. "Listen for robotic voices. AI voices often make awkward pauses, clip words short or put unnatural emphasis in the wrong places." Pause before sharing A lot of misinformation relies on clickbait-style headlines and emotionally charged content designed to make readers feel a certain way, so that they are motivated to share it. "If you see a post or news report that makes you incredibly angry or very sad, step away," Gamot says. "Much like phishing emails that urge readers to act without thinking, fake news reports stir up a frenzy to sway your thinking." Read widely Increase your digital literacy and knowledge by pushing yourself out of your information bubble, Carruther says. "Read things you wouldnt necessarily read otherwise just to try and get a different side of the story." She adds: "People should be able to go online, connect with their friends, read the news, and stay informed. But I want them to do it safely, and there is a lot of manipulation going on at the moment. Being cautious is the best way forward." Watch: Starmer vows full legal action to end violent UK protests Read more about online safety: Starmer to chair Cobra as police brace for further violence The Prime Minister will chair another Cobra meeting on Tuesday evening as police across the country brace for an eighth night of violence. The meeting of the Governments emergency response committee is the second in two days as officers anticipate further disorder across Tuesday night and Wednesday. Concerns have also been raised that immigration law specialists could be at risk after a list of solicitors firms and advice agencies was shared in chat groups as targets for gatherings in the coming days. Sham Supermarket on Donegall Road in Belfast after it was attacked during disorder in the area (Rebecca Black/PA) One of the locations listed told the PA news agency they had been offered extra police support which they said they would accept. Another centre, Asylum Link Merseyside, said it had closed its offices temporarily following threats of far-right violence made against it. Meanwhile, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said around 100 people had already been charged in connection with the disorder of the past week, with some making court appearances on Tuesday. (PA Graphics) Some of those involved in incidents across the country have pleaded guilty at initial court appearances and are due to be sentenced in the coming weeks. They include a 28-year-old man from Leeds, Jordan Parlour, who indicated a plea of guilty to a charge of using threatening words or behaviour intending to stir up racial hatred. The charge relates to a series of Facebook posts made by Parlour in connection with the disorder, and he has been remanded in custody until a sentencing hearing on Friday. Several people have already been charged in connection with unrest in Middlesbrough and elsewhere (Owen Humphreys/PA) Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Parkinson told the BBC he was absolutely seeking to prosecute people for online offences related to the rioting. The CPS chief hit out at those who had used the internet for the purposes of incitement and planning, adding: If youre engaged in that activity, then you can be prosecuted for the substantive offence that you have caused (due) to what youve been doing using the internet. In a warning to those acting outside the UK, Mr Parkinson said: Some people are abroad. That doesnt mean theyre safe. We have liaison prosecutors spread around the globe whove got local links with the local judiciary and law enforcement, but also the police are also stationed abroad. He added that more than 400 people had already been arrested, while ministers continued to stress that those taking part in disorder would face the full force of the law. Sir Keir Starmer will chair a second Cobra meeting in two days amid ongoing violent disorder. (Alberto Pezzali/PA) Sir Keir Starmer told his senior ministers at Tuesdays Cabinet meeting that 99.9% of people across the country want their streets to be safe and to feel safe in their communities. He added the Government will take all necessary action to bring the disorder to an end. Justice minister Heidi Alexander told broadcasters on Tuesday morning that courts could possibly begin sitting through the evening, the night, at weekends in order to prosecute rioters swiftly. The additional courts protocol, which was created in the aftermath of the 2011 riots, could be invoked in areas where police and prosecuting chiefs feel it is needed, the minister also told LBC. Ms Alexander said some 567 additional prison spaces would soon come into use to deal with rioters. Approximately 6,000 specialist officers will be at the ready by the end of the week for the so-called standing army of police announced by Sir Keir on Monday to deal with disorder. But shadow home secretary James Cleverly has criticised the plans, and posed a series of questions to the Government. Writing on X, formerly Twitter, he said: Police forces across the UK have officers who are public order trained, but when not dealing with disorder they have other police duties. Will this standing army of officers have no other duties? If so, what will they do when there are no riots? Or is Starmer expecting permanent riots? The widespread disorder across the country followed the fatal stabbings of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club in Southport last week. Hundreds of people attended a peaceful vigil in the Merseyside town on Monday evening a week on from the murders of Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar. Incorrect rumours that the suspect in the stabbings was an asylum seeker who arrived in the UK on a small boat which spread on social media appear to have fuelled the unrest. Starmer pledges to keep communities safe as police prepare for further violence The Prime Minister has promised communities they will be kept safe as the country braces for an eighth night of violence. Sir Keir Starmer chaired a meeting of the Governments emergency Cobra committee on Tuesday evening, the second in two days, to co-ordinate the response to ongoing unrest on Britains streets. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, he said: We are doing everything we can to ensure that where a police response is needed, its in place. Obviously its a difficult situation with disorder going on in a number of different places at the same time, but that is precisely why I held my second Cobra meeting today to co-ordinate the response and to get the assurance that I want and need that we do have adequate police in place, that we are able to cope with this disorder. Officers were preparing for further violence on Tuesday night, with police braced for a potentially busy day on Wednesday as they monitor reports of at least 30 possible gatherings. Tuesday night saw police issue dispersal orders for parts of Liverpool and Durham, but no major disturbances. Police in Durham said 37 people aged between 13 and 38 had been ordered to leave the city centre following intelligence of planned disorder and a 15-year-old had been arrested in connection with a public order offence, but there had been no disorder or criminal damage. In Liverpool, police introduced a dispersal zone to the south and west of the city centre to prevent potential disorder. Sources said forces were watching events closely as they establish what intelligence was credible and stand ready to respond. Map showing outbreaks of violence since Southport stabbings (PA Graphics)A list of solicitors firms and advice agencies has been shared in chat groups as possible targets for gatherings, with the message inviting people to mask up if they attend. Tell Mama, a group monitoring Islamophobia in the UK, said it had alerted police and counter-terrorism to the far-right threats. The Law Society of England and Wales described such gatherings as a direct assault on our legal profession and therefore a direct assault on our democratic values and urged the Government to treat such threats against the legal profession with the utmost seriousness. The Immigration Law Practitioners Association (ILPA) said where security is threatened as a result of carrying out our essential and proper function in a democracy, the Government and law enforcement agencies should investigate and monitor threats to our safety. One of the locations listed told PA they had been offered extra police support which they said they would accept. Another centre, Asylum Link Merseyside, said it had closed its offices temporarily following threats of far-right violence made against it. Stand Up To Racism has advertised counter-demonstrations to defend immigration lawyers, refugee charities and asylum support centres around Britain. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood said threats against solicitors were unacceptable and those making them would join the hundreds of others who have already been arrested by police within the last week. The Government has pledged additional resources for police forces to help deal with the unrest, with the Home Secretary saying funding will not be a barrier to a strong police response. Yvette Cooper said: The police have my unwavering commitment to ensure they have everything they need to mobilise a strong frontline response across the country to put a stop to the appalling displays of violence and criminal damage we have seen in some of our towns and cities. Police have dealt with a week of unrest, sparked by false claims about the identity of the suspect in the Southport knife attack (Danny Lawson/PA) Approximately 6,000 specialist officers will be at the ready by the end of the week for the so-called standing army of police announced by Sir Keir on Monday to deal with disorder.These officers have been taken away from their regular duties to deal with the ongoing disorder. In addition to more riot police being put on standby ready to be deployed to incidents in their regions, forces are also stepping up neighbourhood policing patrols while teams of detectives investigate, drawing on CCTV, body-worn footage and making use of retrospective facial recognition to identify perpetrators of violence, while intelligence teams monitor well-known influencers and organisers for activity. Ms Cooper added: Criminals should expect to pay the price for violent thuggery and disorder on our streets. Keyboard warriors also cannot hide, as criminal organisation and incitement online will be liable for prosecution and strong penalties too. More than 400 people have now been arrested in the wake of disorder around the country, according to police sources, with the number expected to continue to rise in the coming days. A car burns on Parliament Road, in Middlesbrough, during an anti-immigration protest on Sunday (Owen Humphreys/PA) Around 100 people have been charged, with some already pleading guilty in court appearances on Tuesday. They included 28-year-old Jordan Parlour, from Leeds, who indicated a plea of guilty to a charge of using threatening words or behaviour intending to stir up racial hatred. The charge relates to a series of Facebook posts made by Parlour in connection with the disorder, and he has been remanded in custody until a sentencing hearing on Friday. On Tuesday evening, Sir Keir praised the criminal justice systems robust and swift response, saying he expected substantive sentencing of some of those involved in the rioting to take place by the end of the week. He said: That should send a very powerful message to anybody involved, either directly or online, that you are likely to be dealt with within a week. Nobody, but nobody, should be involved themselves in this disorder. But he faced criticism from some on the right, as well as from Elon Musk, the US-based owner of social media platform X, that police had handled the disorder more harshly than if it had been carried out by members of ethnic minorities. The Government has rejected the claims, while Sir Keir told reporters his focus was on ensuring that our communities are safe. The Stormont Executive is set to meet to discuss the response to continuing disorder in Belfast. Trouble flared on Monday evening in south Belfast after serious rioting on Saturday following an anti-immigration protest in the city centre. Two businesses owned by people from minority ethnic communities have been burnt out and police came under sustained attack in the Donegall Road area. Scenes around the Bash Cafe on Donegall Road in south Belfast, which was burned on Saturday night following violent disorder (Rebecca Black/PA) A man in his 50s remains in hospital in a serious condition after being attacked by a mob in what police are treating as a hate-motivated attack. Four men appeared in court on Monday to face charges linked to the violence on Saturday. A 15-year-old male was arrested following the disorder on Monday night. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said it was appalling to see continued violence and disorder. Posting on the social media network X, formerly Twitter, she said ministers will meet on Thursday to discuss the response, and will receive a briefing from Chief Constable Jon Boutcher. Stormont deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly (Liam McBurney/PA) This must stop, she said. The Executive will meet on Thurs to discuss our continued coordinated approach, including policing response with briefing from Chief Constable. We stand united in opposition to all violence, racism and hate. Earlier this week, it was announced that the Northern Ireland Assembly will be recalled from summer recess on Thursday to discuss the violent scenes. MLAs will discuss a motion condemning criminal damage and targeting of businesses in recent days. The motion also calls on First Minister Michelle ONeill and Ms Little-Pengelly to finalise the draft Refugee Integration Strategy and associated Thematic Delivery Plan and present it to the Executive, to bring forward the renewed Race Relations Order, and set out the process of replacing the Racial Equality Strategy 2015/25 by the end of 2024. PSNI officers man road blocks in Belfast following an anti-Islamic protest outside Belfast City Hall on Saturday (PA) Meanwhile on Monday, a meeting of Belfast City Council passed a motion to provide financial support to businesses damaged during Saturdays disorder. Sinn Fein MLA Deirdre Hargey described scenes in south Belfast as absolutely deplorable. There have been absolutely sickening reports of a home being attacked, a man brutally assaulted and attempts to set alight a business which was already burnt on Saturday, she said. Those involved in these racist and disgusting attacks must face the full force of the law, and I would encourage anyone with information to contact the PSNI. Belfast is a shared and inclusive city. There is no place for racism or these kinds of disgraceful attacks on our minority communities. People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll has called for a mass anti-racism movement to face down racist violence I am calling on all anti-racism campaigners, trade unionists, and progressive political forces to mobilise to show that we will not tolerate such hate, he said. In Belfast, and elsewhere, we need to make a renewed effort to stamp it out, to defend migrants and refugees, and to uplift all communities together in the face of government neglect. Suspected rioters continue to appear in court following mass disorder More suspected rioters have appeared in court on Tuesday following mass disorder across the country over the past week. A number of people charged with violent disorder have already pleaded guilty to their part in the widespread violence. Following an appearance at Leeds Magistrates Court on Tuesday, a Facebook user also indicated a guilty plea to using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour to stir up racial hatred. Jordan Parlour indicated he admitted posting on the social media platform between August 1 and August 5 in connection with violent disorder across the country. His case has been sent to Leeds Crown Court for a sentencing hearing, an HMCTS spokeswoman said. Self-employed builder Joshua Simpson became the first person to be convicted following the rioting outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham after he admitted assaulting a police officer. Six men are scheduled to appear in court following the disorder in Rotherham on Sunday (Danny Lawson/PA) Sheffield Magistrates Court heard how Simpson, 25, was abusive to police before he kicked a riot shield, forcing it back onto an officers leg. The defendant admitted one count of assault of an emergency worker. He was remanded in custody by deputy district judge Simon Blakebrough who asked for a pre-sentence report to be prepared before he is sentenced on August 27. The judge said he could not rule out sending Simpson, who said he is currently homeless, to prison. Three other men Christopher Rodgers, 38, of Millmoor Road, Barnsley; Liam Grey, 20, of Randerson Drive, Kilnhurst, Mexborough, South Yorkshire; and Lee Crisp, 42, of Mount Road, Grimethorpe, Barnsley denied a charge of violent disorder in connection with the same incident. The court heard Rodgers is accused of being part of a group that was throwing missiles at police and then blocked the way as a line of officers moved forward. He was bitten by a police dog before he was arrested, the court heard. A 16-year-old boy and a 17-year-old boy also charged with violent disorder, who cannot be named for legal reasons, were not required to enter a plea on Tuesday. Elsewhere on Tuesday, a judge in Liverpool told one man he had a real prospect of a custodial sentence due to the serious disorder he had been a part of. Dylan Carey, 26, of Castle Hill Road in Hindley, Greater Manchester, pleaded guilty at Liverpool Magistrates Court to violent disorder in Southport last Tuesday. Joshua Sanderson-Kirk, prosecuting, said a police attended outside a mosque on St Lukes Road in Southport when a hostile crowd of about 200 people came towards them chanting who the f*** is Allah. He said: The crowd became more angry and began surging forward. Several of the crowd were shouting why are you protecting them. Carey, who was identified by officers via footage on social media, kicked a police van and threw something towards it. (PA Graphics) The defendant, who has no previous convictions, was remanded in custody to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on August 12, with District Judge Timothy Boswell saying: Plainly, given the serious disorder Mr Carey has been a part of, there is a real prospect of an immediate custodial sentence. Also at Liverpool Magistrates Court, a 15-year-old boy pleaded guilty to violent disorder in the city centre on Saturday after he was identified from a TikTok video. Footage played in court showed the youth among a crowd of people, becoming involved in a confrontation and taking his jacket and top off. Mr Sanderson-Kirk said: He picks up a paving slab and throws it at a member of the public. The boy, whose mother was in court, was granted bail with a condition not to enter the city centre as his case was adjourned until September 17. In Bristol, business owner Ashley Harris, of Chipperfield Drive, Kingswood, was remanded in custody charged in connection with violent disorder in the city centre on Saturday. During different incidents, the 36-year-old is accused of throwing punches at two counter-protesters, squaring up to police officers, encouraging crowds to move forward and throwing a can. Harris, who has a scaffolding and roofing business, entered no plea at Bristol Magistrates Court and was remanded in custody to appear before the citys crown court on September 9. Others are expected to appear in court across the country on Tuesday. Cleveland Police said a total of 28 people are due to appear at Teesside Magistrates Court charged with violent disorder and other offences following violence in Middlesbrough on Sunday. Nottinghamshire Police arrested 15 people at a protest in the citys Old Market Square (Jacob King/PA) The force said the court had set aside a remand court to deal with those appearing on Tuesday. Amongst them was Stacy Vint, 34, who admitted a charge of violent disorder after pushing a burning wheelie bin into a row of police officers before falling to the ground and being arrested. Some of the 28 denied offences, including Jamie Govan who allegedly swung his arms and kicked his legs out at police who resorted to using leg restraints, and Ashley Ferguson, 33, who is accused of damaging property with a 4ft wooden pole during unrest in Middlesbrough. Following disorder in Sunderland, 21-year-old Bradley Makin became the fourth person to admit a charge of violent disorder, as well as possession of cocaine and heroin, a Northumbria Police spokesperson said. Elsewhere, eight people have been charged in connection with disturbances that broke out during protests in Nottingham city centre. Nottinghamshire Police arrested 15 people at a protest in the citys Old Market Square on Saturday, with one woman and seven men aged between 18 and 46 now charged with a variety of crimes, including public order, weapon offences and assaulting an emergency worker. Lancashire Police said two men and two teenagers have been charged in connection with disorder in Bolton on Sunday. Dominic Stanbridge, 31, of Highland Drive, Buckshaw, and a 16-year-old boy have been charged with violent disorder while James Nelson, 18, of Victoria Road, Horwich, has been charged with criminal damage to property valued under 5,000 and another 16-year-old boy has been charged with being in possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. Stanbridge and Nelson have been remanded into custody ahead of an appearance at Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court on Tuesday, the force added. The widespread disorder across the country followed the fatal stabbings of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club in Southport last week. Previously, judges condemned the recent violent scenes, with one describing violence in Belfast as absolutely disgraceful. Justice minister Heidi Alexander said the Government will bring more than 500 additional prison places into use to deal with rioting, and some 6,000 specialist police officers were at the ready. She told LBC that courts could possibly begin sitting through the evening, the night, at weekends in order to swiftly prosecute rioters. People who have stirred up disorder online will not escape prosecution, the head of the Crown Prosecution Service has warned, as more than 100 charges related to the riots have been laid. Dozens of people have appeared in courtrooms facing charges related to the unrest which has now lasted a week across England and in parts of Northern Ireland. Those suspected of crimes related to the riots have started to appear at or are listed to attend courts in Sheffield, Manchester, Teesside and Liverpool. One man has been charged with intending to stir up racial hatred relating to alleged posts on Facebook, and will appear at Leeds Magistrates Court on Tuesday. Sham Supermarket on Donegall Road in Belfast which was burned during disorder in the area (Rebecca Black/PA) In Belfast, a man in his 30s is meanwhile in a serious condition in hospital after being attacked in a suspected hate crime amid the unrest. Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Parkinson told the BBC he was absolutely seeking to prosecute people for online offences related to the rioting. The CPS chief hit out at those who had used the internet for the purposes of incitement and planning, adding: If youre engaged in that activity, then you can be prosecuted for the substantive offence that you have caused (due) to what youve been doing using the internet. In a warning to those acting outside the UK, Mr Parkinson said: Some people are abroad. That doesnt mean theyre safe. We have liaison prosecutors spread around the globe whove got local links with the local judiciary and law enforcement, but also the police are also stationed abroad. Approximately 100 charges have been laid relating to the riots, Mr Parkinson said, as more than 400 people have been arrested. There were 46 charges on Monday and 18 overnight into Tuesday, it is understood. Many of those have now been released on bail for court appearance at a later date, with the chief prosecutor adding he was confident the justice system had the capacity and the capability to deal with the work thats there and the work that we anticipate coming forward. Police are bracing for a possible eighth night of disorder, with six potential events on Tuesday. Officers are anticipating a busy day on Wednesday as they monitor reports of at least 30 possible gatherings. Concerns for the safety of immigration law specialists has meanwhile been sparked after a list of solicitors firms and advice agencies was shared in chat groups as targets for gatherings in the coming days. One of the locations listed told the PA news agency they had been offered extra police support which they said they would accept. Justice minister Heidi Alexander told broadcasters on Tuesday morning that courts could possibly begin sitting through the evening, the night, at weekends in order to prosecute rioters swiftly. The additional courts protocol, which was created in the aftermath of the 2011 riots, could be invoked in areas where police and prosecuting chiefs feel it is needed, the minister also told LBC. Ms Alexander said some 567 additional prison spaces would soon come into use to deal with rioters. Extra cells at HMP Stocken, Rutland, will be in use from next week, she said, with plans also in place to use space at Cookham Wood Young Offender Institution in Kent for adult prisoners. As the Government continues to toughen its stance towards the riots, Sir Keir Starmer meanwhile told his senior ministers at Tuesdays Cabinet meeting that 99.9% of people across the country want their streets to be safe and to feel safe in their communities. He added the Government will take all necessary action to bring the disorder to an end. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the Government will take all necessary action to bring the disorder to an end (Alberto Pezzali/PA) Health Secretary Wes Streeting, meanwhile, suggested people abusing NHS staff can be turned away, and should be turned away after telling PA he was appalled by reports of violence directed towards Filipino nurses in Sunderland. A number of people charged with violent disorder have already pleaded guilty to their part in the widespread violence. Self-employed builder Joshua Simpson became the first person to be convicted following the rioting outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham after he admitted assaulting a police officer. Sheffield Magistrates Court heard how Simpson, 25, was abusive to police before he kicked a riot shield, forcing it back onto an officers leg. The defendant admitted one count of assault of an emergency worker. He was remanded in custody by deputy district judge Simon Blakebrough who asked for a pre-sentence report to be prepared before he is sentenced on August 27. Jordan Parlour, 28, is meanwhile due to appear at Leeds Magistrates Court on Tuesday charged with intending to stir up racial hatred relating to alleged posts on Facebook, the Crown Prosecution Service said. Others are expected to appear in court across the country throughout the day. In Belfast, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is dealing with a suspected hate crime amid ongoing rioting. A man in his 30s is in a serious condition in hospital after being attacked in the Donegall Road and Oban Street area of the city. Police said witnesses reported seeing his attackers stamp on his head as members of the public attempted to shield him from further attack. Officers came under sustained attack from multiple petrol bombs, heavy masonry and bricks in south Belfast over a number of hours on Monday night, according to the PSNI. Approximately 6,000 specialist officers will be at the ready by the end of the week for the so-called standing army of police announced by Sir Keir on Monday. Shadow home secretary James Cleverly has criticised the plans, and posed a series of questions to the Government. Shadow home secretary James Cleverly questioned the Governments actions (Joe Giddens/PA) Writing on X, formerly Twitter, he said: Police forces across the UK have officers who are public order trained, but when not dealing with disorder they have other police duties. Will this standing army of officers have no other duties? If so, what will they do when there are no riots? Or is Starmer expecting permanent riots? The widespread disorder across the country followed the fatal stabbings of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club in Southport last week. Hundreds of people attended a peaceful vigil in the Merseyside town on Monday evening a week on from the murders of Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar. Incorrect rumours that the suspect in the stabbings was an asylum seeker who arrived in the UK on a small boat which spread on social media appear to have fuelled the unrest. Talk about being in the right place at the right time! Digital content creators, The Traveling Lelis, were visiting Tanzania in mid-July and they captured a video of a tiny lion learning to roar. It's seriously the cutest thing you'll hear today! The lion cub is just a baby, and you'll hear them practicing their tiny roar in the video. Mom is right behind the little one, watching them closely. She even gives him a 'paw' to remind him to stay close to her. While mom doesn't seem to care about all the people, the little one seems very curious about them. Make sure your sound is on because you do not want to miss hearing all of the cub's cuteness! View the original article to see embedded media. The Lelis' video is total cuteness overload! I wasn't the only one who thought so; the video went viral and has well over 6 million views and more than 15 thousand comments. People loved it! @dontmindbree got almost 25 thousand likes for her comment, "Don't worry mom, I'll scare all these people away... hear me roar!" and @katherine.wolf.slp added, "Awwww hes trying so hard!!" @johannes.p.m. was spot on when they said, "Fighting the urge to pick up and pet the baby lion must be hard." Related: Oakland Zoo's Rescued Lion Cubs Share Off Their Tiny but Ferocious Growls Cool Lion Cub Facts Lion cubs have a lot to learn from their mom and siblings during the first few years of their lives. Cubs normally stay with their mothers for the first 2 years, then females stay with the pride but the males head out on their own. Moms teach the cubs basic survival skills, like how to hunt prey by stalking, pouncing, and biting. She teaches them how to protect themselves from predators like hyenas, hippos, and rhinos. The siblings practice fighting with each other, which is just as adorable as when they practice roaring. I could watch and listen to that all day! When siblings practice hunting and fighting, they learn how to move silently, allowing them to attack without ever being seen or heard. These big cats have soft pads on the bottom of their paws that allow them to creep up on their prey without making a sound. Their paws also have a false heel, giving them more leverage when pulling down on their prey like antelopes, zebras, buffaloes, and young elephants. And speaking of roaring, a lion's roar could be heard up to five miles away! Lions roar for different reasons. They roar to attract mates and to show off their strength to rivals. Male lions roar to show their dominance, and to communicate with their pride. They roar to scare away predators and intruders, and to warn the pride of potential danger. If a lion gets separated from their pride, they'll roar to find their family and the pride will also roar to find the lost lion. While adult lion roars aren't nearly as cute as the cubs' roars are, they're still pretty cool to hear! Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips. A Virgin Atlantic advertisement claiming the airline was the first to fly transatlantic on 100% sustainable aviation fuel has been banned for misleading consumers. The radio ad, heard on November 24, stated that the airlines Flight 100 from London Heathrow to New Yorks JFK would make it the worlds first commercial airline to fly transatlantic on 100% sustainable aviation fuel. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) received five complaints that the 100% sustainable claim gave a misleading impression of the fuels environmental impact. Virgin Atlantic said they had previously been announced as the winner of a competition run by the Department for Transport (DfT) to support industry to achieve the first net zero transatlantic flight on an aircraft using 100% sustainable aviation fuel within one year. The airline said the ads wording mirrored the terms used by the DfT in its competition invitation. They did not think listeners would understand the ad to mean that the fuel used for Flight 100 was derived from completely sustainable sources, did not generate CO2 or other emissions that had an adverse environmental impact during use, and that over its full lifecycle had no adverse environmental impacts. The airline said the ad did not claim that the fuel was 100% sustainable, or give a misleading impression about the absolute or relative environmental nature, impact or credentials of sustainable aviation fuel, but factually described how the flight was powered exclusively by sustainable aviation fuel. Virgin Atlantic confirmed that sustainable aviation fuel produced the same level of CO2 emissions during flight as traditional jet fuel. However, because sustainable aviation fuel utilised carbon that had recently been captured from the atmosphere, the CO2 savings were relative to a net increase in atmospheric carbon that would have been emitted had fossil fuels been dug up and used. It claimed that overall, Flight 100 had delivered a lifecycle CO2 emissions saving of 64%. The ASA found that the ad was misleading, as it implied that sustainable aviation fuel had no carbon emissions or a wider environmental impact, which was not the case. It acknowledged that the specific sustainable aviation fuel mix used for Flight 100 was calculated to have delivered savings of 64% in greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil-derived aviation fuel over its full lifecycle, but this was not stated in the ad. Miles Lockwood, the ASAs director of complaints and investigations, said: Our rulings have made it clear that businesses need to be wary of using statements like 100% sustainable or sustainable when advertising their products and services. Claiming that a product or service is sustainable creates an impression that it is not causing harm to the environment and for that reason we expect to see robust evidence that this is the case. In this case, while sustainable aviation fuel does emit less carbon emissions than regular aviation fuel, it nevertheless still generates significant carbon and non-carbon emissions in-flight and its production at scale can have wider environmental costs and trade-offs. Because of that, its important that claims for sustainable aviation fuel spell out what the reality is so consumers arent misled into thinking that the flight they are taking is greener than it really is. We all have a part to play in tackling climate change, and we want businesses to talk about their environmental credentials. Thats why were continuing to provide training and free advice to advertisers so they can be confident that their ads are accurate and precise. A Virgin Atlantic spokeswoman said: Were committed to achieving net zero by 2050 and key to this will be using sustainable aviation fuel, which is one of the most immediate levers to decarbonising long haul aviation. Flight 100 proved that sustainable aviation fuel is a safe, 100% drop-in replacement for fossil fuel and while 100% adoption across every flight may be decades away, we demonstrated the radical collaboration required to drive increased production, supply and uptake in the UK. While we are disappointed that the ASA has ruled in favour of a small number of complaints, we remain committed to open, accurate and transparent engagement on the challenge of decarbonisation. Akili McDowell in 2019. The actor, who starred in "David Makes Man" and "The Astronaut Wives Club," has been charged with murder. "Billions" and "David Makes Man" actor Akili McDowell has been charged with murder. McDowell, 21, was arrested Thursday after authorities allege he fatally shot a man at a Houston apartment complex, according to a Harris County sheriff's office news release. According to arrest records viewed by USA TODAY, the actor is also charged with theft of property valued at more than $100 but less than $750. USA TODAY has reached out to McDowell's lawyers and rep for comment. On July 20, deputies found 20-year-old Cesar Peralta unresponsive with gunshot wounds after a call came in about a shooting at an apartment complex, according to the news release. Witnesses told the authorities that Peralta had been in a fight with another man when the shooting occurred. The other man fled on foot after. McDowell is currently in custody on $400,000 as of Tuesday, according to arrest records. The actor's court date for the murder charge is set for Oct. 9. Who is Akili McDowell? The actor played Savion Williams on the Showtime drama "Billions" across two episodes in Season 5, according to IMDb. He also played the titular character in the OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network) series "David Makes Man," which follows a child prodigy who grew up in poverty in South Florida. The series lasted two seasons, from 2019 to 2021. McDowell's other acting credits include the 2015 crime thriller "Criminal Activities" starring John Travolta and Michael Pitt as Young Isaac, the 2015 ABC limited series "The Astronaut Wives Club" as Zavier Gibbs, the 2018 Trinity Broadcast Network series "Chase the Lion" as a young George Washington Carver and the 2024 crime drama "The Waterboyz" as Drew. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Billions' actor Akili McDowell, 21, charged with murder Federal aviation safety officials on Tuesday pressed Boeing executives for answers about what caused a near disaster when a panel on a 737 Max 9 aircraft fell off in-flight. The January 5 incident on a jet operated by Alaska Airlines was so severe that the aircraft's cockpit blew open and tore off the co-pilot's headset, according to documents released as part of a two-day hearing by the National Transportation Safety Board. "It was chaos," the co-pilot said in comments released by the agency as part of the proceedings. Four bolts that helped secure the panel, called a door plug, were not replaced after a repair job in a Boeing factory, but the company said the work was not documented, the government agency found in a preliminary report. The captain of the Alaska Airlines described "an explosive experience" and said he could not communicate with flight attendants, according to the documents. The pilots quickly landed the aircraft back in Portland, Oregon, and the door plug was later found in a backyard in Cedar Hills, Oregon. Seven passengers and a single fight attendant received minor physical injuries. "Quite traumatic" "This was quite traumatic to the crew and passengers," NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said in the hearing. "We are so sorry for all that you experienced during this very traumatic event," she added, speaking to anyone who may have been on the flight or knew someone aboard. Homendy and other NTSB members pressed executives from Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems, which makes fuselages for Max jets, to explain what may have led up the incident and what steps the companies have taken to ensure safety. "This is not a PR campaign for Boeing. What I want to know, what we want to know, is what happened in March, April, May, June, July, August, September, leading up to this, leading up to what happened in January?" Homendy said. Witnesses for Boeing and Spirit defended the companies' respective safety systems and inspection practices. "Every fuselage goes through a final product verification which is a dedicated area in the Spirit factory where we have Boeing inspectors," Doug Ackerman, vice president of supplier quality for Boeing commercial airplanes, told the panel, describing a change in procedure that began March 1. The inspections involve "going over the fuselage front to back, inside and outside to identify any discrepancy," said Ackerman, and typically take a couple of days. Boeing takes ownership of the fuselage as it exits the Spirit factory in Wichita, Kansas, he added. "We want to have acceptance verification at the location where it is manufactured," Ackerman said. The NTSB will not determine what caused the blowout after the hearing that could take another year or longer. Rather, the federal agency is calling the unusually long hearing a fact-finding step. Design changes planned Elizabeth Lund, Boeing's senior vice president of quality a new position as of Febuary said in the hearing that the company hopes to have a fix in place within the year to potentially prevent such a blowout from happening again. "They are working on some design changes that will allow the door plug to not be closed if there's any issue until it's firmly secured," Lund said in responding to questions as to why Boeing did not have a warning system for door plugs akin to what's in place for regular doors. The NTSB in June found Boeing had broken investigation rules when Lund provided non-public information to media and speculated about possible causes. Boeing in July agreed to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge and pay at least $243.6 million to resolve a Justice Department probe into two 737 Max crashes that killed 346 people. Still in crisis mode, Boeing's stock has shed more than a third of its value this year, with the company hemorrhaging cash amid its greatly reduced production. Lund said production of Max jets declined to under 10 a month after the Alaska Airlines blowout and has increased, but remains at less than 30 a month. Boeing announced a new CEO last week, and has agreed to repurchase Spirit to get better control of its manufacturing. CBS News' Kris Van Cleave and Kathryn Krupnik, along with the Associated Press, contributed to this report. Murder victim's girlfriend: "Watch who you're with" James Rackover brags he'll beat charges in phone calls from jail Rep. Cori Bush loses congressional primary, 2nd progressive "Squad" member to lose reelection Boring, incompetent, radical, and weird these are some of the early lines of attack former President Donald Trump's allies are lobbing at Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz after Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris tapped him as her running mate Tuesday. Walz is the one who first labeled Trump's VP pick, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, as weird, and now Trump world is trying to define the little-known governor before Harris' campaign has a chance to introduce him. Vance will help lead the GOP effort this week as he shadows the Harris campaign, holding counterprogramming events in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and other states around Harris/Walz rallies. Vance and Walz are also expected to square off in a debate before Election Day. Both are military veterans and midwesterners who have served in Congress, but the similarities end there. Walz is 20 years older than Vance and came to politics after working as a teacher and football coach. He was viewed as a moderate when he served in the U.S. House of Representatives, earning an endorsement from the National Rifle Association and holding onto a congressional seat that Trump easily carried. But the former president's allies are arguing he has since embraced positions that are further left since leaving Washington. Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, pictured here, as her running mate Tuesday. For example, Walz signed legislation last year protecting transgender health care, and conservatives have seized on that bill in attacking the governor. "Walz has creepy far-left views," the Trump-aligned super PAC MAGA Inc. alleged in a statement Tuesday, targeting the legislation. MAGA Inc. also pointed to the riot in Minneapolis after the death of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man killed by police, in trying to paint Walz as incompetent. And Walz's record on criminal justice issues, education and climate change policies were quickly trotted out by the Trump campaign and its allies. Trump spokesperson Karoline Leavitt sought to tie Walz to the heavily Democratic state of California, Harris' home base, by saying that the governor has tried "to reshape Minnesota in the image of the Golden State." Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has banned transgender care in his state and passed anti-protest legislation in response to the riots after Floyd's death, also knocked his fellow governor on Tuesday, saying he "sat by and let Minneapolis burn" in 2020. Following the day-long lead of aides and allies, Trump issued a statement Tuesday afternoon denouncing the newly minted Harris-Walz ticket as "the most Radical Left duo in American history." "There has never been anything like it, and there never will be again," Trump said in a Truth Social post. Longtime Trump adviser Roger Stone was more personal in his Walz criticism, calling him "not the ideal running mate" and "old" in a race that once centered around Trump and President Joe Biden's ages. "In Tim Walz Kamala has chosen a candidate who offends no one," Stone told USA TODAY. "Unfortunately, the guy is so boring he dyes his Easter eggs white... the only thing worse in politics than being wrong is being boring, and Tim Walz is extremely boring." It's not guaranteed that Americans will agree with these criticisms. But if Republicans do stick with Stone's line of attack, it could set up a contrast between the "boring" candidate and the "weird" candidate in 2024. Walz is credited with first using the term "weird" to described Trump and Vance, doing so during a July 23 interview on MSNBC's "Morning Joe." We do not like what has happened, when you cant even go to Thanksgiving dinner with your uncle because you end up in some weird fight that is unnecessary, Walz said. Well, its true. These guys are just weird. Since that interview, "weird" has caught on as a Democratic talking point. It's prompted Vance and other Republicans to try and turn it around on Democrats. "Have you ever heard Kamala laugh now that's weird," Stone said when asked about Walz's criticism, a jab that Trump himself has made several times in recent weeks. But Walz's opening offensive against Republicans and his profile as a white, 60-year-old midwestern dad could help Democrats drive their message of normalcy versus what's they've dubbed MAGA weirdness. Sen. Joe Manchin, who left the Democratic Party over ideological differences and now identifies as an independent, endorsed Walz by saying he would bring normalcy back to Washington: All of the candidates were strong and any one of them would have been a great pick, but I can think of no one better than Governor Walz to help bring our country closer together and bring balance back to the Democratic Party." Harris' campaign did not immediately respond to questions about Trump world's attacks on Walz. But they said in a statement announcing his selection that the 2024 race presents a choice between "Vice President Harris and Governor Walz, who are running to move the country forward" or Trump and Vance, who the campaign alleged are focused on enacting the conservative agenda known as Project 2025 and hitting the middle class. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump allies attack Kamala Harris VP pick Tim Walz Left: Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump gestures during a campaign rally held with Republican vice presidential nominee Senator JD Vance, in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S., Aug. 3, 2024. Right: Elon Musk, arrives before the start of Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senators Rounds, Heinrich And Young hosting the Inaugural Artificial Intelligence Insight Forum With Key AI Stakeholders. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump said he is set to sit down on Monday with one of his newer supporters: Tesla founder Elon Musk. "ON MONDAY NIGHT ILL BE DOING A MAJOR INTERVIEW WITH ELON MUSK Details to follow!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform Tuesday. Musk has not yet commented on the interview on his platform X, formerly known as Twitter. In January 2021, Trump was banned from Twitter during the final days of his term. Trump's X account was reinstated on the platform the following year once Musk's takeover was completed. The interview comes as the former president seeks a return to the White House as he runs against Vice President Kamala Harris, who announced Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate Tuesday. Trump participated in a 22-minute interview with video game streamer Adin Ross on Monday. During the livestream, Ross offered Trump a Rolex watch and a Cybertruck wrapped in a photo taken of him during the July 13 assassination attempt on his life. When is the Donald Trump Elon Musk interview? GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump will participate in a one-on-one interview with X owner Elon Musk on Monday, Aug. 12. Further details regarding time and where to watch the conversation have not yet been shared. Musk fully endorses Trump after rally shooting Last month, Musk offered his complete endorsement for Trump following the assassination attempt at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. "I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery," Musk wrote on X on July 13 while sharing a video of the moment after a bullet struck his right ear. Musk has said he previously voted for Democratic candidates, including President Joe Biden, in the three previous election cycles. In recent years, the tech mogul has vocalized his frustration with Democrat policies such as Biden's indefinite support for labor unions and his decisions regarding immigration and the border. Earlier this year, Musk vowed not to contribute to either Trump or Biden's campaigns. "Just to be super clear, I am not donating money to either candidate for US President," he wrote on March 6. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: When is the Donald Trump-Elon Musk interview? Here's what to know Excitement and rumor are at their apex just hours before Vice President Harris is expected to announce her choice of running mate. Harris and her vice presidential nominee will soon begin a rapid tour of six of the seven states that are likely to determine the election. The first event on that itinerary is in Philadelphia on Tuesday, but the Harris campaign has pushed back on the idea that the location presages the choice of Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro as her running mate. Harris campaign spokesperson Kevin Munoz also refuted reports that the candidate had made her choice as of late Monday afternoon. We understand the excitement and interest here, but VP Harris has made no decision on a running mate yet! Munoz wrote on social media. Its of course possible that Harris could blindside the political world with an unexpected pick. But three men cited as front-runners met with her at her Washington residence on Sunday: Shapiro, Sen. Mark Kelly (Ariz.) and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. Others rumored to be in contention include Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Heres a guide to where the veepstakes stands right now, including our odds on the top candidates. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro Criticism from progressive Democrats doesnt negate the one massive factor that favors Shapiro: his popularity in a home state that is the biggest battleground in Novembers election. Shapiro beat Republican Doug Mastriano, who had been endorsed by former President Trump, by 15 points in the governors race less than two years ago. An Emerson College poll for The Hill late last month showed Shapiro winning the approval of 49 percent of Pennsylvanians while just 31 percent disapproved. If a Harris-Shapiro ticket were to carry Pennsylvania and its 19 electoral college votes, it would be a massive step toward winning the White House. The big vulnerability for Shapiro is his rhetoric around the conflict in Gaza. He has drawn parallels between pro-Palestinian protesters and the Ku Klux Klan. If Harris chooses Shapiro, her political honeymoon will end amid criticism from progressives. But the potential prize of Pennsylvania might be just too big to ignore. The Hills odds: Even money. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz Walz is the leading example in this years veepstakes of a politician who can be around for years only to find their moment and become an overnight sensation. The Minnesota governor, who previously served six terms in Congress, has thrilled Democrats with his forceful attacks on Republicans since President Biden announced his decision to step aside. In particular, his charge that the Trump-era GOP is just weird has resonated with liberal voters. The Minnesota governors basic appeal is that of a bluff, rural Midwesterner who could be a formidable campaign-trail presence. He is plainly the favored choice of the partys progressive wing, having appeared more empathetic to pro-Palestinian protesters than Shapiro. His record also includes vigorous defenses of voting rights and reproductive rights. But the enthusiasm of the left toward him could backfire, in a sense, if Harris favors someone who appeals primarily to voters in the center ground. The Hills odds: 2-1 Sen. Mark Kelly (Ariz.) By Monday, there was chatter in Washington and in Democratic circles that Kellys star might be fading. But Beltway conventional wisdom is often wrong. The pro-Kelly case has three main pillars. First, he is from a battleground state, albeit one with 11 electoral college votes to Pennsylvanias 19. Second, he has favored tougher policies on the border than many others in his party something that might inure Harris a bit on a key weakness. Third, he has a compelling biography as a former Navy pilot and astronaut, and as the husband of former Rep. Gabby Giffords (D-Ariz.), who was gravely injured in a 2011 shooting. But Kelly faces some resistance from organized labor, in part because of his reluctance to co-sponsor the Protecting the Right to Organize Act. There are also some fears that Kelly might lack the dynamism of some other contenders for the job. The Hills odds: 5-2 Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear Beshear could come through the middle as a choice that would not overly antagonize either progressives or centrists within the Democratic coalition. Beshears main asset is his capacity to win in a deep-red state. Last year, he won reelection with 53 percent of the vote in a state Biden lost by roughly 26 points. Beshear is just 46, which would put an even sharper point on the idea that the Democratic ticket, now shorn of the 81-year-old Biden, would offer a generational change. Trump is 78 whereas Harris is 59. Beshears youth may go against him if there is any fear that he is just too untested, however. The Hills odds: 3-1 Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg Buttigiegs network of supporters has been vigorously pushing him for the job. They point in particular to Buttigiegs undoubted media skills. He has been especially effective at carrying the Democratic message to Fox News, winning himself liberal fans in the process. Buttigieg ran for the Democratic nomination in 2020, outperforming expectations but never really looking like he could win. But Buttigieg struggled badly with Black voters during that process, and detractors note he has never been elected to statewide office or even to a congressional seat. He is the former mayor of South Bend, Ind. There is also another factor to consider. The demands of realpolitik may weigh against Harris vying to become the first Black female president choosing a gay man as her running mate. The Hills odds: 5-1 Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. 71-year-old Robert Colin has been accused of illegally wrangling this nine-foot gator and tying it to a handrail. A 71-year-old Florida man was arrested and spent the night in jail after authorities say he illegally "lassoed" an alligator. Robert Tencie Colin of Cape Canaveral was charged last week after he captured a gator without proper permissions, according to local authorities. Colin was concerned about the turtles in his local canal, he told the Brevard County Sheriffs Office and received no response when he called the office or animal control. "They dont have the manpower or the hours to wait for this alligator to appear," he told Florida Today, part of the USA TODAY network. "I thought I was doing them a favor, helping them. How did Colin lasso the gator and what is charged with? Colin took matters into his own hands on Wednesday, using a nylon clothesline to create a noose-style loop to lasso what he told Florida Today was an "aggressive" gator. Colin managed to get the loop hooked around the 9-foot gator's upper jaw, at which point he tied the rope to a handrail to secure it and called authorities. When police responded, Colin initially told them that he had found that gator that way because he didn't want the glory" of telling them he'd trapped it, he told Florida Today. After reviewing security footage, however, police were able to confirm that Colin had been the one to capture the gator. Because Colin does not have a license or permit to legally remove or attempt to remove a gator, he was charged with killing, injuring, or possessing an alligator or egg without authorization, a felony, police told USA TODAY. I said, Let me tell you what I did to help you out, and they told me to put my hands behind my back," Colin said. "I told them I couldnt do that because I just had heart surgery ... I didnt know it was illegal. Im not from Florida. I was just trying to help. Colin told Florida Today he spent about 13 hours in jail before he was released on a $2,500 bond. Multiple local outlets have reported that the gator, which was classified as a nuisance, was later euthanized. There are proper channels to follow to get a nuisance or dangerous gator removed from an area, a representative for the Brevard County Sheriffs Office told USA TODAY. Concerned citizens could contact local law enforcement or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to have a licensed trapper come out and relocate the animal. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Florida man charged with lassoing 'aggressive' 9-foot gator A mama and baby mountain goat looking out over a cliff in Glacier National Park Robert Bohrer via Shutterstock Deep in the heart of Montana's Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park boasts some of the most impressive mountain and glacier scenery in the United States, if not the entire world. But Glacier Mountain Park doesn't just have towering mountain peaks, jewel-toned glacier lakes, and deep valleys. It's also home to lots of alpine wildlife, including the always-lovable mountain goat! Whenever possible, savvy hikers usually try to keep their distance from wildlife on the trail for safety. But hikers Sydney and Isaac were surprised with an adorable up-close encounter with this mama mountain goat and her baby in Glacier National Park! At first, Sydney and Isaac (posting together as @galindosonthego) were obviously nervous, and for good reason. Mountain goats can be pretty territorial, and they especially didn't want to make a protective mama goat mad! But the hikers remained calm and gave the family some space, and they had the perfect vantage point as the adorable baby goat, calling for his mama, walked right above their heads! Related: Baby Farm Goats Having a Pajama Party Is the Gift That Keeps on Giving Sydney and Isaac's viewers fell in love with the adorable baby animal and his doting mama (and the breathtaking glacier views behind them), but many of them were also impressed by how well the two hikers handled their wild animal encounter. "'I'm not gonna move unless she makes me,' amazing, like, the best way to handle up-close encounters (for most animals)," @hippiesoulbabe praised their cool-headedness. "Lolol, if they show up, you have definitely won the hiking award," said @maybe_maybenot_sophia. I concur! Mountain Goats in Glacier National Park While getting a close numbers estimate has proven tricky, National Park Service officials estimate that between 1,200-2,100 mountain goats live in Glacier National Park, according to Montana's Hungry Horse News. These goats love hanging out on high cliffs and walking along high-elevation trails through the park, and hikers will often have to make way for mountain goats when passing each other along the narrow cliffside trails! While mountain goats aren't aggressive by default, they can quickly become dangerously aggressive during breeding season or when they have their kids with them (as this mama goat did). Also, according to the Washington Trails Association (WTA), mountain goats crave the salt from hikers' sweat and their, um, liquid waste. Yeah, gross, I know. Salt-hungry goats can get pretty pushy with hikers, which is not something you want on a narrow mountain trail overlooking a steep drop! Mountain goats are adorable, but as with all wild animals, people still need to be careful around them. If you're going hiking in Glacier National Park (or anywhere with mountain goats), the WTA advises keeping at least 150 feet away from mountain goats at all times, going at least 50 feet off the trail for bathroom breaks, and, if a goat wants to pass you, giving it the right-of-way (just like Sydney and Isaac did for Mama and Baby). If you respect the goats and give them their space, you're much more likely to have a peaceful time on the trail - and you might even get to witness a beautiful encounter like this lucky couple did! Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips. By Brendan Pierson (Reuters) - GSK won the latest trial over claims that discontinued heartburn drug Zantac caused cancer, as a jury on Monday found that the drug was not responsible for an Illinois woman's illness, a company spokesperson said. Carrie Joiner had alleged in her lawsuit in state court in Chicago that she developed colorectal cancer from a carcinogenic contaminant called NDMA found in the once-blockuster drug. A lawyer for Joiner did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Zantac was sold at different times by GSK, Pfizer, Sanofi and Boehringer Ingelheim. First approved by U.S. regulators in 1983, it became the world's best-selling medicine in 1988 and one of the first to top $1 billion in annual sales. The companies collectively are facing thousands of lawsuits against them in courts across the United States. The majority of those are in Delaware state court, where a judge in June allowed more than 70,000 cases to go forward after rejecting the defendants' bid to keep key plaintiffs' expert witnesses out of court on the grounds that their scientific methods were not reliable. The companies are appealing that ruling. The lawsuits began piling up after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2020 asked manufacturers to pull the drug off the market over concerns that ranitidine, the active ingredient in Zantac and generic versions of the drug, could degrade into NDMA over time or when exposed to heat. Several cases have settled before trial for undisclosed amounts. The only previous case to go to trial ended with a verdict in favor of GSK and Boehringer Ingelheim in May. The drugmakers have said the cases are meritless. They won a significant victory in 2022, when a Florida federal judge ruled against about 50,000 cases, finding that the alleged cancer link was not supported by sound science. Some of those cases are being appealed. (Reporting By Brendan Pierson in New York, Editing by Alexia Garamfalvi and Bill Berkrot) Hamas named its Gaza leader Yahya Sinwar as successor to former political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Tehran last week, the group said on Tuesday, in a move that reinforces the radical path pursued since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel. Sinwar, the architect of the most devastating attack on Israel in decades, has been in hiding in Gaza, defying Israeli attempts to kill him since the start of the war. "The Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas announces the selection of Commander Yahya Sinwar as the head of the political bureau of the movement, succeeding the martyr Commander Ismail Haniyeh, may Allah have mercy on him," the movement said in a brief statement. News of the appointment, which came as Israel braces for a response to the killing of Haniyeh in the Iranian capital, was greeted with a salvo of rockets from Gaza from the bands of militants still fighting Israeli troops in the besieged enclave. "The appointment means that Israel needs to face Sinwar over a solution to Gaza war," said a regional diplomat familiar with the talks brokered by Egypt and Qatar, which are aimed at bringing a halt to the fighting in Gaza and a return of 115 Israeli and foreign hostages still held in the enclave. "It is a message of toughness and it is uncompromising." Sinwar, who spent half his adult life in Israeli prisons, was the most powerful Hamas leader left alive following the assassination of Haniyeh, which has left the region on the brink of a wider regional conflict after Iran vowed harsh retaliation. Israel has not claimed responsibility for the assassination but it has said it killed other senior leaders, including Hamas deputy leader Saleh al-Arouri, who was killed in Beirut, and Mohammed Deif, the movement's military commander. Born in a refugee camp in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis, Sinwar, 61, was elected as Hamas' leader in Gaza in 2017 after gaining a reputation as a ruthless enforcer among Palestinians and an implacable enemy of Israel. Israel's chief military spokesman, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, blamed Sinwar for the Oct 7 attack and said Israel would continue to pursue him. "There is only one place for Yahya Sinwar, and it is beside Mohammed Deif and the rest of the Oct 7th terrorists," he told Al-Arabiya television, according to a statement released by the military. "That is the only place we're preparing and intending for him." Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan holds a picture of Palestinian Islamist group Hamas' leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar, as he addresses delegates during the United Nations General Assembly before voting on a draft resolution that would recognize the Palestinians as qualified to become a full U.N. member, in New York City, U.S. May 10, 2024. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz Unified movement In a sign that the movement had united around the choice of Sinwar, Khaled Meshaal, a former leader who had been seen as a potential successor to Haniyeh, was said by senior sources in the movement to have backed Sinwar "in loyalty to Gaza and its people, who are waging the battle of the Flood of Al-Aqsa". For Israel, the appointment confirms Hamas as a foe dedicated to its destruction and is likely to reinforce Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's insistence that Israel must pursue its campaign in Gaza to the end. Ten months since the surprise attack by thousands of Hamas-led fighters who swarmed into Israeli communities around the Gaza Strip in the early hours of the morning of Oct. 7, the war has turned the Middle East on its head and threatened to spiral into a wider regional conflict. Some 1,200 Israelis and foreigners were killed and more than 250 taken hostage into Gaza. In response, Israel launched a relentless campaign that has so far killed almost 40,000 Palestinians and left the densely populated enclave in ruins. Attempts at reaching a ceasefire that would give the exhausted population a respite and enable the hostages remaining in captivity to be brought home have foundered amid mutual recriminations from Hamas and Israel. Hamas official Osama Hamdan told Al Jazeera that the movement remained committed to reaching a deal and the team that handled the negotiations under Haniyeh would continue under Sinwar, who he said was following the talks closely. But Hani Al-Masri, a political analyst in Ramallah, said Sinwar's appointment to lead the movement overall was a direct challenge to Israel, and sent a message about Hamas' adherence to his "extremist and resistant approach". "As Sinwar manages the negotiations, he will manage the movement," he said. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Hamas names Oct 7 mastermind Yahya Sinwar as leader Vice President Harriss campaign mocked former President Trump over his low energy schedule as the vice president prepares for a multistate tour this week. The Harris campaign account posted a side-by-side comparison of the vice presidents schedule for the upcoming week and Trumps campaign schedule. It shows Harris with campaign stops across Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Arizona and Nevada and shows Trump with one stop in Montana. Low energy, @realdonaldtrump? the campaign wrote. The only campaign stop listed on Trumps campaign website as of Monday afternoon is his rally in Bozeman, Mont., on Friday. When reached for comment, the Trump campaign pointed The Hill to a post from the Trump War Room account on the social platform X. Fake news, bass mouth. President Trumps schedule this week is filled with events, rallies, media interviews, and fundraisers. Kamala isnt going to give you an interview, no matter how much you carry her water, the post reads. Harris is kicking off her five-day, seven-state blitz in Philadelphia on Tuesday, where she is expected to debut her vice presidential pick. She and her running mate will then travel to Wisconsin and Michigan on Wednesday, North Carolina and Georgia on Thursday, Arizona on Friday and Nevada on Saturday. Harris earned enough delegates last week to become the presumptive Democratic nominee as her campaign continues to gain momentum. A new CBS News/YouGov poll on Sunday showed Harris with a 1-point lead over the former president nationally and showed her tied with Trump across key battleground states. Trumps running mate, Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), will be doing his own multistate swing this week, the campaign announced Monday. He will be hitting many of the same states as Harris, including delivering remarks in Philadelphia on Tuesday. Vance will appear in Shelby Township, Mich., and Eau Claire, Wis., on Wednesday, which is when Harris is slated to visit both key swing states. He will then speak in North Carolina on Thursday, the campaign said. Updated at 5:05 pm. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The battle to become Vice President Harriss running mate is turning increasingly ugly as a decision nears and Democrats rally around their own preferred picks. Progressives angered by Israels war in Gaza have increasingly targeted Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D), who is Jewish, over his stances on Israel and handling of pro-Palestinian protests. Separately, Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) also flagged concerns about Shapiro to Harriss team, according to Politico. The left wing of the Democratic Party is increasingly pushing for Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) to be the Harris pick. A number of House Democrats have been trying to boost Walz, a source familiar with the conversations said. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), another top contender, has seen some union leaders publicly question whether he should get the nod, though the talk has not reached the nastiness of the debate over Shapiro. The vice presidential battle, some strategists say, is starting to resemble a Democratic primary fight. This is probably the closest thing to a primary that Democrats get this cycle, and that explains why this has gotten so high stakes, said one Democratic strategist who has worked on recent presidential campaigns. Many Democrats are looking at this as the last opportunity to impact the ticket and potentially the last opportunity to have an impact on the White House until 2028 or 2032, so you are seeing a lot of campaigning. When President Biden dropped out of the race and endorsed Harris, Democrats and Republicans alike were stunned at how quickly the party coalesced around her. Many had been expecting a messy battle to take place post-Biden, but instead no challengers emerged and the party was largely able to breathe a sigh of relief. Live updates: Harris picks battle-tested Walz as her running mate While that fight was avoided, the vice presidential race has taken on a more bitter tone. Veepstakes is normally a months-long process, and while the surprise of picking rising talent from the bench for the ticket has excited Democrats, it created a pressure-cooker environment over two weeks, a second strategist said. All opposition research and critique that would normally have time to breathe is being rushed out the door. In the closing days, the fractures have grown more intense, but their durability is unclear, and the guiding principle for the Harris campaign remains the same: Do no harm, show good judgment with your pick, and maybe move the needle in key states. A Harris ally agreed that the condensed time frame, immediately following the fractures in the Democratic Party, are contributing to the intensity of the moment. No one wants to make a mistake here, the ally said. The window is small, and the stakes are high. Shapiro has born the brunt of the veepstakes criticism, particularly from progressives. The governors critics from the left-leaning flank of his party point to what they say has been a heavy-handed approach to pro-Palestinian protests and efforts during his time as governor and attorney general. One particular discussion grew so intense, activists debated if the phrase Genocide Josh while describing Shapiro was antisemitic, according to The New York Times. Some Democrats say much of the criticism Shapiro has received is from the overly online left, and predict that progressives will fall in line if Harris picks him. These internal squabbles might seem large online, because they can inspire big feelings, [but] it doesnt reflect anything happening in the real world. The normal voter is not paying attention to this, said Keith Edwards, a digital Democratic strategist. But one progressive strategist told The Hill that the criticism is not exclusive to online spaces and could impact turnout among Arab American and Muslim voters. I think there are going to be problems if he is the VP for the Arab vote, the progressive vote, the strategist said. I do think this is going to be more of a defining moment for her campaign than I thought. Progressives and pro-Palestinian activists say they take particular issue with a recently resurfaced op-ed from Shapiros undergraduate years at the University of Rochester in which he predicted that peace will never come to the Middle East and described Palestinians as battle-minded. The Institute for Middle East Understanding Policy Project rolled out their own statement Friday referring to Shapiros comments in the op-ed as virulently racist. Shapiros spokesperson responded to the resurfaced op-ed, which Shapiro wrote when he was 20, saying in a statement that the governors views on the issue have since evolved into the position he holds today. Additionally, Shapiros allies have pointed to shows of support from the Arab community, including a recent op-ed from a member of the Philadelphia Arab American Development Corp. that praised Shapiro for reaching out to the community following Oct. 7. Shapiros supporters and critics of progressives point out that Shapiros present stances on Israel-related issues are not that different from those of the other contenders, arguing that much of the criticism is rooted in antisemitism. Shapiro is a supporter of a two-state solution and has been a vocal critic of Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus handling of the war. Those in the overly online left who are attacking Josh Shapiros pro-Israel positions in a different way than they are attacking non-Jewish veep contenders positions, theyre just telling on themselves. Theres a strong undercurrent of antisemitism, Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.), who is Jewish, told CNN on Monday. One Democratic strategist predicted the backlash particularly from progressives likely wouldnt play a major role in Harriss decision, pointing to her moderated stances on issues including Medicare for All and fracking. Shes had so many opportunities to play into their demands already, and she hasnt taken that bait, the strategist said. Edwards also questioned how long voters will stay fixated on the veepstakes news cycle, given the chaotic nature of politics over the past month. The news cycle is minutes long, he said. There was an assassination attempt three weeks ago and no one talks about that. This, what were talking about here, is so small. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Russian-American journalist Alsu Kurmasheva said shes finally being treated as a human being following her release from Russian detention in a historic prisoner exchange between Washington and the Kremlin last week. Ive been waking up from that nightmare, Kurmasheva told CNNs Jake Tapper on The Lead in her first television interview since her release. I had a feeling I fell asleep 10 months ago, and now Im getting out of it. Kurmasheva and fellow freed Americans Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan were reunited with their families in an emotional scene at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland last week. Kurmasheva rushed into the arms of her husband and daughters on the tarmac after greeting Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden. The US-backed Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty journalist had been detained in October 2023 and found guilty of spreading false information about the Russian army charges her family and employer deny. Kurmasheva and her husband, Pavel Butorin, have two daughters, including one who turned 13 just minutes after reuniting with her mother. Asked by Tapper what it was like to learn she would be released, Kurmasheva said she didnt believe she was free until the very end. It wasnt until I saw my family that I believed that Im free. Or, I would say when I was on a US airplane that I really believed that something like magic I was hoping for months was happening, she continued. Pavel recounted similar uncertainty in the hours leading up to his wifes homecoming. Many things came as a surprise on that day, even that phone call from the presidents office, Pavel said. It came as a total surprise, and we were so happy to hear Alsus voice finally after so many months of no communication with her. There is always hope Recounting her release, Kurmasheva said she wasnt told where she was being taken when removed from her prison cell in the Russian city of Kazan. Aboard a bus in Moscow, Kurmasheva said, I didnt know what was going on. Then I saw that bus of other prisoners even then, you can never know for 100% that its going to happen, she added. So, there was hope, as there is a belief that there is always hope, but you should be ready for anything. Kurmasheva said that while aboard the bus she recognized Gershkovich, the Wall Street Journal reporter wrongfully detained by Russian authorities on espionage charges, though the two werent allowed to speak. We just greeted each other, and we recognized each other, Kurmasheva said. We havent met, but we knew each other by the photos. And the first time we talked, it was on the US plane where we took off from Ankara. Kurmasheva is not the only RFE/RL reporter who has been held in Russian captivity. Vladyslav Yesypenko, a journalist for the outlets Ukrainian Service, was detained in Russia-occupied Crimea on March 10, 2021; Ihar Losik, a journalist for the publications Belarus Service, was detained in Minsk on June 25, 2020; and Andrey Kuznechyk, also from the Belarus Service, was detained in Minsk on November 25, 2021. Their nightmare will be over at some point because no family should have to go through this nightmare, especially journalists, Pavel said of Kurmashevas imprisoned colleagues. Journalism is not a crime. Theyve done nothing wrong, we know that, he added. Alsu is not a criminal, shes done nothing wrong, the world knows she is not a criminal, and well get them out, well get her colleagues out. Hostage affairs official: Biden admin has made hard decisions The sweeping deal involved 24 detainees in total and was the result of years of complicated behind-the-scenes negotiations involving the US, Russia, Belarus and Germany, ultimately leading Berlin to agree to Moscows key demand releasing convicted Russian assassin Vadim Krasikov. The top US hostage affairs official addressed criticism that Russia may be more likely to take US hostages for leverage if the White House continues to approve prisoner swaps, telling Tapper earlier in the program that the Biden administration had to assume some risk in order to bring the Americans hostages home. You always assume a risk in these situations, and the president has been willing to make these hard decisions, Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens said. Carstens, who was also involved in the high-profile releases of former Marine Trevor Reed and WNBA star Brittney Griner from Russian detention, has served as the US top hostage negotiator since 2020. The diplomat told Tapper that he once had 54 hostage cases that are now down to just over 20. So weve made hard changes. Weve traded some bad people to get good people, innocent people back, Carstens said. And you would think that my numbers would be skyrocketing up and yet theyre not. Theyre going in the opposite direction. So the math proves that assertion to be wrong, he continued. When we make these hard decisions and the president makes the tough call to send someone back in a trade like this, our numbers are actually going down. Sen. Lindsey Graham suggested on Fox News on Sunday that the deal has increased Putins leverage on the West, saying there is a cycle that incentivizes the Kremlin to detain Americans on trumped up charges so they can exchange them for Russian spies and killers. The South Carolina Republican said that the cycle needs to stop. Asked Monday whether President Joe Biden plans to contact the family of Marc Fogel, a US teacher in Russian prison who was not included in the swap, Carstens said that he cant speak for Biden and has called on the Russians to release Fogel on humanitarian grounds. Though Fogel has not been designated as wrongfully detained by the Biden administration, the US has brought back people that have not had the designation before, Carstens explained. Just because someones not necessarily designated wrongful doesnt mean that were not also trying to work behind the scenes to bring them home as well, he said. This headline and story have been updated with additional developments. CNNs Jennifer Hansler contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Jewish Democrats on Capitol Hill are up in arms over the liberal attacks on Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D), saying the potential vice presidential pick has been unfairly maligned merely because hes the leading Jewish figure on Vice President Harriss shortlist. A number of voices on the far left have gone after Shapiro in recent weeks over his position on the Israel-Hamas War, accusing the 51-year-old governor of blindly supporting Israels aggressive military campaign at the expense of the tens of thousands of Palestinians who have been killed in the conflict. Some have labeled him Genocide Josh. Those attacks have rankled Shapiros allies in Congress, particularly Jewish lawmakers who say the critics have not only misrepresented Shapiros position on the war, but theyre also flirting with antisemitism. Joshs position on Israel is almost identical to everybody else, but hes being held to a different standard. So you have to ask yourself why, Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) said. Moskowitz said his party would never tolerate similar attacks if the potential candidate was, for example, Black, gay or Latino, in which case we would call that out and it would be deafening. But Josh is being held to a double and triple standard, he added, in an effort to try and kill his chance at becoming the vice president. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), another prominent Jewish lawmaker, is also racing to Shapiros defense, saying the critics are dissecting Shapiros resume in ways the other shortlisted candidates simply havent had to endure. It has been very noticeable that of all of the people that she is carefully considering, that the only Jewish candidate is getting excruciating, very specific scrutiny, particularly around his positions on Israel, Wasserman Schultz said, a dynamic she called deeply concerning. The criticism of Shapiro and his stance on Gaza, to be sure, has been spearheaded by groups on the far left and not prominent progressives in Congress. But those voices of opposition have nonetheless been loud. In a statement last month, the Philadelphia chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America issued a statement making the case against Shapiro as vice president, writing that he is an outspoken supporter of the Zionist project in Palestine. And a campaign against Shapiro has taken shape at NoGenocideJosh.org, which, according to a document obtained by Jewish Insider, includes individuals from Dear White Staffers, the social media account that reports on alleged workplace abuses in the Capitol. Shapiro, in just his first term in the governors office, has quickly built a national profile for his track record of building bipartisan coalitions, outperforming other Democrats at the polls and maintaining a broad appeal in a purple battleground state. Recent polls have put his approval rating at around 60 percent. The governor who keeps kosher, attended Jewish day school and proposed to his wife in Jerusalem has been staunchly pro-Israel amid the war in Gaza, bolstering Tel Avivs right to defend itself, underscoring the importance of defeating Hamas, and denouncing the pro-Palestinian protests that took over college campuses in the spring, including at the University of Pennsylvania. Shapiro, however, has also been supportive of a two-state solution in the Middle East and notably critical of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. At one point he dubbed the conservative leader one of the worst leaders of all time, arguing that the controversial figure has steered Israel in a wrong direction, and made Israel less safe and made their future less bright because of his leadership. The statement came months before Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in history, called for new elections in Israel and said Netanyahu had lost his way. Shapiros supporters have been quick to point out that the governors position on the Gaza war is in line with that of other vice presidential candidates and has, at times, been more critical of Israel than others arguing that the increased scrutiny on his perspective is fueled by antisemitism. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), for example, said it would be appropriate for the police to step in and quell college campus protests that took an unlawful turn and labeled Hamas the biggest barrier to obtaining a cease-fire in the Middle East, while also saying Israeli officials have to do a better job at decreasing innocent deaths. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D), meanwhile, ordered flags to be flown at half staff in the North Star State after the Oct. 7 attack on Israel and, according to TC Jewfolk, he told attendees at a temple days after the massacre, If you did not find moral clarity on Saturday morning, and you find yourself waiting to think about what you needed to say, you need to reevaluate where youre at. The people Ive seen talking about the vice presidential candidates and then singling out Gov. Shapiro for positions that are virtually identical to everyone else whos being considered, and saying his position on Israel and Gaza disqualifies him, the only thing that would be different from anybody else is the fact that hes Jewish, and that by definition falls under the category of antisemitism, said Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Ill.), another Jewish lawmaker. Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Calif.), another veteran Jewish lawmaker, noted that Shapiros critics are not all of the same mold. Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.), for instance, is also cold to Shapiros rise to vice president, but that doesnt have anything to do with antisemitism, and everything to do with Pennsylvania politics, Sherman said. Still, Sherman minced no words in decrying Shapiros pro-Hamas critics who are clearly antisemitic. If you go to the Twittersphere, they seem to have noticed that one of the people on the shortlist is Jewish and they are blazing away with every bit of vituperative anger that theyre known for, Sherman said. His positions [on Israel] are the same as everybody else on the shortlist. So yeah, I think its because hes Jewish. They can say he went to Israel. But thats what American Jews do, he continued. All of my Mexican American friends have been to Mexico. All my French American friends have been to France. The Israel-Hamas conflict is not the only issue fueling a liberal backlash about Shapiro as a potential VP selection. Fetterman, for instance, has reportedly clashed with Shapiro for years on issues of law enforcement and clemency policy. And some other prominent progressive lawmakers are citing Shapiros position on labor issues, particularly his support for school voucher programs, which has run afoul with some labor union leaders who are calling for Harris to pick someone else. Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), the head of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, made clear her distaste for Shapiro just before the recess, citing labor issues rather than Israel policy. Asked specifically about the Pennsylvania governor, she declined to comment because, she said, she couldnt endorse him. Im not really commenting on other Im commenting on who I think would be a great choice, Jayapal told reporters outside the Capitol. I just dont see how you can put somebody in that does not have a strong prolabor record, she continued. That is a core constituency of the Democratic Party. It is a core platform to fight for. Harris is expected to reveal her pick for running mate Tuesday morning, ahead of a scheduled campaign stop featuring the full Democratic ticket in Philadelphia later in the day. Aside from Shapiro, she has also weighed the possible choices of Walz, Kelly, Gov. JB Pritzker of Illinois and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, among others. As the country awaits Harriss announcement, many Democrats are promoting a simple measure they hope will guide her decision: Pick the candidate who gives the party the best chance of keeping former President Trump from winning a second term in the White House. Some said Trumps running mate selection of Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), whose provocative comments in recent weeks have forced Republicans to play defense, offers a roadmap for how not to choose a running mate. Trump does everything pretty sloppily, and Im sure that he had no idea how much JD Vance hated cats and loved couches, Sherman said. So clearly the Republicans did not do their job, and I expect that the Democrats will do our job. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Machine Gun Kelly has opened up about the complex relationship he had with his father who was tried for the murder of his own father at nine years old and the effect it had on his life. Speaking on a new episode of the Dumb Blonde podcast, the 34-year-old singer-songwriter and rapper, real name Colson Baker, candidly discussed his childhood and how its gone on to influence his music. Baker was born in Houston, Texas, to Christian missionaries. As a child, his family lived in various countries, including Kenya, Germany and Egypt. In my situation with my father, he was so tormented from some of the most insane s*** that I can imagine a kid can go through, he told host Bunnie XO (wife of country star Jelly Roll) adding that his mothers side is Norwegian, making her very stoic. So the emotional side of things I get from my father, who was very, you know, he wore everything on his sleeve, he explained. His depression was very obvious; his need for love was very [obvious]. I wish I couldve told him before he died that I was really inspired by how emotional he was. I thought that was very cool in hindsight because I am very emotional, too. The sun to me artists father died on July 5, 2020. My fathers childhood journey definitely bled into mine because we shared the same bed for years, Baker said. Machine Gun Kellys father was acquitted for murder (Getty Images) You know, the years my dad slept depressed, I took on all that, he continued. I always used to get so mad at him when I was a kid because if I scared him, or he heard a loud boom, he would always freak out like gnarly freak out and I would be like, Youre supposed to be a man, dude. Why are you acting like this? and it made me hate him. And then you sit there and you think about a kid who was on trial at nine years old for the murder of his father, and knowing that the police found the shotgun underneath the bed. The story that was always told me was that their dad dropped the gun and his head essentially blew off, he recalled. All happened in the room with my dad at nine years old. So him and my grandmother were tried for the murder. They were both acquitted. Colson said the traumatic event led to his father having a split personality. So a lot of things, man, that Ive taken on, he said. And I think Ive projected myself to be somebody who has the stamina to endure all of these things that come with fame and criticism and hate, because I fought back with all those traumas by becoming what I always wanted my father to be, which was tough, and shake everything off and fight anyone who comes at you. I was a really shy, f***ed up kid, internally, and really broken, he added. Im just now fixing myself and I dont have the energy to be the image that I was, because Im also kinda sick of being on an island alone, outside of my fans who can really read into the music. As far as public persona, Im really, really sick of being what they think I am. Colson, who broke up with actor Megan Fox earlier this year, recently released his latest single, Lonely Road (with Jelly Roll). Telling the story of lower-middle-class, struggling family and relationship is what I really grew up seeing, he said of the tracks message, so it was something that felt right to do on a song that everyone keeps telling me was a hit. After five books that have seen young super-sleuth Stevie Bell solve everything from a 1970s sleep-away camp massacre to the cold case of the century, author Maureen Johnson is giving newcomer Marlowe Wexler a chance to get in on the action with the novel, Death at Morning House. And Marlowe has no idea what shes doing. Stevie Bell wants to be a detective, and thats how she becomes one. Marlowe Wexler does not, says Johnson, the novelist behind the Stevie-centric Truly Devious series. That was my starting point: the accidental detective, the person thrown into a situation by chance, not someone who sought it out. Shes a romantic at heart, awkward, friendly, and in no way prepared to investigate a murder." In the YA mystery Death at Morning House (out now from HarperCollins), Marlowe is a queer girl attempting to get over the worst first date ever one that involved a smidge of inadvertent arson when she takes a summer job as a tour guide at a rundown old mansion in the Thousand Islands. She uncovers drama among her new co-workers, the historian who hired her goes missing and dark secrets are afoot in the past and present. Author Maureen Johnson is back with a new murder mystery and a new main character in "Death at Morning House." A classic mystery fan, Johnson promises that there are more Stevie Bell books coming, but this felt like the right time to put a new, standalone book into the mix. And like the Truly Devious novels, Morning House weaves together tales of the past and present. Mysteries are all about unpicking things that have come before and setting them in order, working out motives, figuring out where the evil set in and why, Johnson says. In Death at Morning House, I really try to expand on this point to talk about what we learn about American history. What story have we told ourselves about our own history, and what parts did we conveniently leave out? What are some people trying to remove from the curriculum? Because we are always doomed when we refuse to learn from history. So would the famously introverted Stevie get along with the gregarious Marlowe? I think Marlowe would just keep talking at Stevie at first, because shes outgoing and romantic and gets nervous around girls sometimes. Stevie would take it all in in silent horror until Marlowe tired from the initial outburst. Then they could talk about murder. Read below an exclusive excerpt from Chapter 7 of "Death at Morning House" by Maureen Johnson: Maureen Johnson grew up as a kid obsessed with murder mysteries and literary sleuths like Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot. I dont believe in curses, exactly, but Id had some bad luck this summer and it seemed like the universe was sending Marlowe Wexler a message to keep her head down and lower her expectations. Curse? I said, turning to Riki. Nothing good happened to that family, she replied. What happened is this, Dr. Henson cut in, unable to risk hearing history told incorrectly. She pulled out the chair at the far end of the table, keeping a little distance from us, and sat down. On July twenty-seventh, 1932, Max Ralston drowned in the afternoon when he was left unattended. His sister Clara fell off the roof that night, presumably jumping due to grief. Faye Ralston, Maxs mother, didnt recover from the shock. A month or two later, Phillip Ralston sought the advice of his medical colleagues, and decided to take her to the first private psychiatric facility in the United States, Craig House. Craig House was a modern facility run by Dr. Clarence Slocum. Its outside New York City in the town of Beacon. It was a very fancy place Zelda Fitzgerald was there when Faye was. Marilyn Monroe would stay there later. Fancy, Van said. Thats where Faye was during Christmas 1932, just five months after the deaths. Phillip rented a large house in the woods nearby so the family could spend the holiday together. But on the twenty-eighth of December, Dagmar, Phillips sister, and Unity took a walk through the snow. They didnt know the area, so they didnt realize the snowy ground they were walking on was a frozen pond underneath. They fell through the ice and drowned. Thats four members of the family dead between July and December. So now there were four Ralston children: William, Victory, Edward, and Benjamin. Victory attended Yale University, where she graduated from medical school with honors. William studied music at Juilliard, and Benjamin studied painting at Beaux-Arts de Paris. None of them were slouches. Benjamin got out of Paris before the Nazi invasion in 1940 and encouraged Victory and William to join him in London to aid the war effort. They got a house together. Victory worked in a war hospital, William helped refugee efforts, and Benjamin worked with British intelligence. He was away on the night in 1941 when a bomb landed on their street and blew up the house. Victory and William were both killed. Phillip had a heart attack when he got the news. He survived that one, but not the next one, which happened five months later. So, in 1941 thats three more Ralstons dead. This was a cheerful countdown. Meanwhile, she said, Edward had been in New York. He had a serious alcohol addiction. Technically he worked as a banker, but really he spent his time gambling and partying. He was driving drunk one night in 1944 and drove his car into a river and died. Faye never left the hospital and died there in October 1947. That left Benjamin as the very last Ralston. He was a decorated war hero and well respected in the art community. He came out as a gay man to his siblings quite early on. Benjamin was a champion for people with AIDS, long before the disease had its formal name. He poured much of his remaining fortune into housing and treatment programs for those with the disease. Moreover, he was known to help people on a personal levelgoing to hospitals, sitting with people who had lost partners, providing food, shelter, and comfort wherever he could. He paid bail for people who were jailed during ACT UP protests. Raise one to Benjamin, Van said, raising his can of Coke. Heres to a real one. And the only one who made it to old age. And that is the story that the Ralston curse is based on. In reality, it was a strange family that made its own bad luck, though some members of the family tried to be beneficial to society. Lecture finished, Dr. Henson stood to go, focusing on her phone and not looking at us again. Going to dinner in town, she said as she left the room. Make sure to clean this up. Suddenly, Rikis I Like Spooky S--- made a lot of sense. She had been following the story as it was told, hooked on every word, though she clearly knew all the details. She was into it. There was no missing it. Now that it was over, she too got up, leaving her dirty plate. Are you going to help clean up? Liani asked. No, Riki said. Im an independent contractor. I can think of other things you are. Happy for you, Liani. Nurture that imagination. As Riki walked toward the door, she stopped as she was about to pull her headphones over her ears. Oh, by the way, she said to me, did anyone mention youre taking over for a dead guy? This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Maureen Johnson debuts a new sleuth in 'Death at Morning House' By Jonathan Stempel NEW YORK (Reuters) - A federal appeals court on Tuesday said a Citigroup vice president was not entitled to a share of a $400 million civil fine that the bank agreed to pay in October 2020 over its risk management failures. The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan said Tamika Miller did not show that her whistleblowing over Citigroup's alleged altering of audit reports obligated the bank to pay a penalty, leading to its settlement with the Federal Reserve and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Miller said Citigroup's conduct violated its $700 million settlement in 2015 with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau over its credit card business, and its $35 million settlement the same day with the OCC over its marketing practices. However, Circuit Judge Denny Chin, writing for a three-judge panel, said that federal law gave the OCC discretion, but not an obligation, to fine Citigroup over the audit reports. He said that doomed Miller's accusation that the third-largest U.S. bank hid its compliance failures to avoid a fine that the government was entitled to collect. Chin also said that the lawsuit by Miller, a Citigroup risk management employee since 2014, was "bereft of the details needed to provide Citibank with 'fair notice' of her claim, and instead resembles an attempt to use the litigation process to discover hypothetical wrongdoing." Lawyers for Miller did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Citigroup did not immediately respond to similar requests. Miller sued under the federal False Claims Act, which lets whistleblowers sue on behalf of the government and share in recoveries, typically 15% to 30%. Such cases typically argue that companies received money they weren't entitled to. Miller's case was a "reverse false claim" contending that Citigroup kept money it should have paid. Jane Fraser, Citigroup's chief executive, has made cleaning up the New York-based bank's regulatory failings a top priority since taking over in March 2021. The case is U.S. ex rel Miller v Citibank NA, 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, No. 22-1615. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Leslie Adler) (Reuters) - John Schulman, one of the co-founders of artificial intelligence company OpenAI, has left the ChatGPT maker for rival Anthropic, he said in a post on social media platform X late Monday. "This choice stems from my desire to deepen my focus on AI alignment, and to start a new chapter of my career where I can return to hands-on technical work," Schulman said in his X post. OpenAI's President and co-founder Greg Brockman is also taking a sabbatical through the end of the year, he said in a X post late Monday. The news was first reported by The Information, which added that Peter Deng, a product manager who joined OpenAI last year, has also exited the company. OpenAI did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. The move comes as OpenAI faces significant personnel changes, with the company's AI safety leader Aleksander Madry being reassigned to another role in July. Another one of OpenAI's co-founders and chief scientist, Ilya Sutskever, left the company in May. Andrej Karpathy, who was also one of the AI firm's founding members left OpenAI in February and started an AI-integrated education platform in July. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who was also one of the co-founders of OpenAI and left three years later, revived his lawsuit against the company and CEO Sam Altman on Monday, saying that the firm put profits and commercial interests ahead of public good. (Reporting by Chandni Shah in Bengaluru; Editing by Rashmi Aich) Is it possible to taste a book? That's what I asked myself repeatedly while drooling over the vivid food and wine imagery in The Pairing, the latest romance from Red, White & Royal Blue author Casey McQuiston out Aug. 6. (St. Martins Griffin, 407 pp., out of four) The Pairing opens with a run-in of two exes at the first stop of a European tasting tour. Theo and Kit have gone from childhood best friends to crushes to lovers to strangers. When they were together, they saved up for the special trip. But after a relationship-ending fight on the plane, the pair are left with broken hearts, blocked numbers and a voucher expiring in 48 months. Now, four years later, theyve fortuitously decided to cash in their trips at the exact same time. They could ignore each other enjoy the trip blissfully and unbothered. Or they could use this as an excuse to see who wins the breakup once and for all. And thats exactly what the ever-competitive Theo does after learning of Kits new reputation as sex god of his pastry school. The challenge? This pair of exes will compete to see who can sleep with the most people on the three-week trip. A little sex wager between friends what could go wrong? "The Pairing" by Casey McQuiston follows two exes who accidentally end up on the same European food and wine tasting tour. The Pairing is a rich, lush and indulgent bisexual love story. This friends-to-strangers-to-lovers tale is Call Me By Your Name meets No Strings Attached in a queer, European free-for-all. Reading it is like going on vacation yourself McQuiston invites you to sit back and bathe in it, to lap up all the art, food and culture alongside the characters. There are a fair amount of well-loved rom-com tropes that risk overuse (Swimming? Too bad we both forgot our bathing suits!) but in this forced proximity novel, they feel more natural than tired. McQuistons use of dual perspective is perhaps the book's greatest strength just when you think you really know a character, you get to see them through new, distinct eyes. In the first half, we hear from Theo, a sommelier-in-training who is chronically hard on themself. The tone is youthful without being too contemporary, save the well-used term nepo baby." In the second half, the narration flips to Kit, a Rilke-reading French American pastry chef who McQuiston describes as a fairy prince. Casey McQuiston's fourth romance novel "The Pairing" is out in August. McQuistons novels have never shied away from on-page sex, but The Pairing delights in it. This novel isnt afraid to ask for and take what it wants. Food and sex are where McQuiston spends their most lavish words, intertwining them through the novel, sometimes literally (queue the Call Me By Your Name peach scene ). But even the sex is about so much more than sex: Sex is better when the person youre with really understands you, and understands how to look at you, Theo says during a poignant second-act scene. The hypersexual bi character is a prominent, and harmful, trope in modern media. Many bi characters exist only to threaten the protagonists journey or add an element of sexual deviance. But The Pairing lets bisexuals be promiscuous in fact, it lets them be anything they want to be without being reduced to a stereotype. Theo and Kit are complex and their fluidity informs their views on life, love, gender and sex. The bisexuality in "The Pairing" is unapologetic. It's joyful. What a delight it is to indulge in a gleefully easy, flirty summer fantasy where everyone is hot and queer and down for casual sex an arena straight romances have gotten to play in for decades. Just beware The Pairing may have you looking up the cost of European food and wine tours. All Im saying is, if we see a sudden spike in bookings for next summer, well know who to thank. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'The Pairing' by Casey McQuiston review: A tasty reunion of exes The Justice Department has charged a Pakistani man who has alleged ties to the Iranian government with seeking to carry out political assassinations, a case that prompted the US government to increase security for former President Donald Trump and other officials, according to court documents unsealed Tuesday. FBI investigators believe that Trump and other current and former US government officials were the intended targets of the plot, a US official briefed on the matter said. Asif Merchant, 46, is accused of traveling to New York City and working with a hit man to carry out the assassinations in late August or early September, according to charges filed by federal prosecutors in Brooklyn, New York. Merchant was arrested on July 12 while preparing to leave the United States, prosecutors said, shortly after he met with purported hitmen who he believed would carry the murders but were actually undercover law enforcement officers. He is in federal custody. Merchant said that he wanted to target individuals in the United States who are hurting Pakistan and the world, [the] Muslim world, according to court documents, adding that these are not just normal people. The FBI investigated the alleged international murder-for-hire plot in the weeks before a 20-year-old from Pennsylvania nearly assassinated the former president at one of his rallies. A law enforcement official told CNN that investigators have not found evidence that Merchant had any connection to the shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania. The FBI believes it foiled Merchants plot before any attack, and in the weeks since his arrest he has cooperated with investigators, according to US officials. But the Iranian governments known threats against Trump, prompted the FBI to pass on the intelligence to the US Secret Service, which increased security protection for the former president, officials have said. As part of the plot, prosecutors say, Merchant was seeking men to commit the actual assassinations, a woman to do reconnaissance, and around 25 people who could perform a protest as a distraction after the murder occurred. A lawyer for Merchant denied that he was cooperating with authorities, saying the claim was inaccurate and irresponsible. The plot revealed by US prosecutors on Tuesday adds to a growing list of detailed Iranian plans to allegedly kill Trump, according to national security officials. The US government has repeatedly raised concerns that Iran may try to retaliate for a 2020 US drone strike that killed Gen. Qasem Soleimani, a top general in Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) by trying to kill Trump or his former advisers. We have not received any reports on this matter from the U.S. Government, a spokesperson for Irans Permanent Mission to the United Nations told CNN when asked about the Justice Department charges. However, it is evident that the modus operandi in question contradicts the Iranian Governments policy of legally prosecuting the murderer of General Soleimani. US prosecutors have charged other individuals for similar assassination attempts in the past, including charges brought in 2022 against a 45-year-old Iranian national and IRGC member who allegedly tried to pay $300,000 to an individual in the US to kill former national security adviser John Bolton. In that case, prosecutors allege that the plot was likely in retaliation for Soleimanis death. Attorney General Merrick Garland said Tuesday that the US will not tolerate attempts by an authoritarian regime to target American public officials and endanger Americas national security. The alleged plot Merchant arrived in New York City in April, prosecutors say, and aimed to hire a hit man who would carry out assassinations against officials on US soil. Although Merchant is a Pakistani national, prosecutors say he spent time in Iran and has family there. Once in the United States, Merchant allegedly contacted someone who he believed would assist him in the murder-for-hire plot. That person, however, contacted the FBI and began working for investigators as a confidential source. Merchant met with the confidential human source in early June, prosecutors say, and said that he wanted he wanted to find people in New York to do three things: steal documents or USB drives from one victims home, plan protests at political rallies and carry out assassinations. Merchant allegedly told the confidential human source that the work was not a one-time opportunity and made a finger gun motion with his hand. As the meeting went on, Merchant spoke of a party back home with whom he was working, and started planning potential scenarios even asking the confidential human source to explain how a person with security that was all around would die, prosecutors say. Later that month, Merchant met with law enforcement officers working undercover as hitmen, according to prosecutors, and said he wanted them to kill a political person in late August or early September. Merchant allegedly arranged to pay them a $5,000 advance on the assassination. He also allegedly told the hitmen to communicate with him about their plans in code, saying that the word tee-shirt would mean a protest (because it was the lightest job), the phrase flannel shirt would mean stealing, because it was heavier work, and the phrase fleece jacket, would mean the third task commit the act of the game. The third part of his plan, according to prosecutors, were the assassinations. Merchant planned to leave the country before the assassination, prosecutors say, but was arrested before he could go. This story has been updated with additional details. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Excitement is in the air at the San Diego Zoo as Americans will soon meet the first pandas the zoo has had since 2019. The arrival of the pandas is not just a treat for visitors, but also a symbol of decades-long U.S.-China relations. "It's a very exciting time for the zoo. No other species embodies that conservation mission as much as giant pandas," said Megan Owen, the zoo's head of conservation science. New residents include Yun Chuan, a 5-year-old male panda who enjoys relaxing with a bushel of bamboo. "He's a foodie," Owen said. "All the pandas love their food, but he definitely loves his bamboo." Yun Chuan's roots run deep at the San Diego Zoo. His mother was born there in 2007, and his grandmother is a local legend who was the one of the zoo's first two pandas and lived there for over 20 years. Joining Yun Chuan is 4-year-old female named Xin Bao, known for her intelligence and adventurous spirit. These are the first pandas to come to a U.S. zoo in 21 years. The hope is that Yun Chuan and Xin Bao will parent the next generation, ushering in a renewed era of peaceful panda relations. The first pandas who made their home in the U.S. arrived at Washington, D.C.'s National Zoo in 1972. They were a gift to first lady Pat Nixon after a historic visit to China with President Richard Nixon that helped establish diplomatic relations between the countries. From then on, 50 years of "panda diplomacy" helped boost the panda population and their popularity, with millions of adoring fans watching every tumble, snow day and birth. China owns the pandas and typically leases them out for 10-year terms at 1 million dollars per year per pair. But with increased tensions between Beijing and the West, China appeared to be pulling back the bears as their leases expired. However, a recent signal from Chinese President Xi Jinping indicated a thawing of icy panda relations. In November, Chinese President Xi Jinping raised hopes his country would start sending pandas to the U.S. again after he and President Joe Biden convened in Northern California for their first face-to-face meeting in a year and pledged to try to reduce tensions. "We are ready to continue our cooperation with the United States on panda conservation," Xi said in late 2023. This means more pandas are expected back at American zoos. Considering the San Diego Zoo's long history with these bears, it's a natural first stop for the pandas' encore tour. Hurricane Debby rainfall "means obliteration" for some parts of Savannah, Georgia, mayor says Neurosurgeon pioneers Alzheimer's, addiction treatments using ultrasound | 60 Minutes Giant pandas to make public debut at San Diego Zoo Noise-canceling headphones and other sleep cue objects could help you get some rest on your next flight, experts say. (Getty Images) (Hispanolistic via Getty Images) Some people can fall asleep before a planes wheels lift off the tarmac. Other travelers spend the entire time squirming in their seats, struggling to get comfortable. If youre one of those passengers who have a hard time falling asleep on a plane, or just can't seem to snooze for long on board, all is not lost. Yahoo Life turned to the pros from travel experts to sleep doctors for their tips on getting some shut-eye at 30,000 feet. Could you actually be one of those people who arrives at their destination feeling well-rested and not groggy and grouchy? Experts say yes. Here's how to prep, what to pack, what to avoid and why you should take a beat to really think about when you're booking your flight. Here's what to do. Pick your flight time wisely Before getting to the day-of flight logistics, the first choice that many passengers make regarding sleep often without realizing it is their flight time. For long-haul flights to somewhere like Europe, its ideal to book that later evening flight, Samantha Brown, the Emmy-winning host of PBSs Samantha Browns Places to Love, tells Yahoo Life. Your body is probably already tired, and its probably taking off around your normal bedtime, which makes it that much easier to fall asleep. However, flight times depend on your destination so it's not always possible to pick and choose. Also, be cautious when booking an early flight because saving money or time may not be worth the missed sleep before departure, especially if you have trouble napping on planes. Having to wake up earlier may translate into getting less sleep, which may translate into not feeling well when you land at your destination, Dr. Luis Ortiz, a physician in the Sleep Center at Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital, tells Yahoo Life. One last thing: If you really struggle to get comfortable in the middle, make it a priority (which usually means paying extra) to book a window seat or a row with more leg room. Shift your internal clock In general, traveling across time zones can certainly be more difficult the further you go, obviously, and [there are] different problems if youre traveling east versus traveling west, Dr. Eric Davis, a sleep medicine expert at the University of Virginias School of Medicine, tells Yahoo Life. Intentionally shifting your internal clock in the week before travel can help you to avoid jet lag and sleep better on the plane, because longer flights are usually timed to align with the time zone of the destination. If youre traveling east whether thats the East Coast of the U.S. or Europe both Davis and Ortiz suggest shifting your internal clock up a little each day. Rising 15 or 30 minutes earlier in the morning, moving bedtime a little earlier each night and eating meals timed more closely to the times when you'll be dining during your trip can help your body adjust more quickly after landing and minimize jet lag symptoms. The same advice applies for traveling west, but instead of shortening the day, youre lengthening it. Davis says this transition tends to be easier for people because they usually dont need to sleep on a plane. Instead, they are trying to extend their day by waking up later, going to bed later and eating later. If [youre] traveling from New York City to Los Angeles and its the middle of the day, you dont necessarily need to sleep on the plane," Davis says, noting that the bigger concern in that scenario would be staying up later and delaying sleep until "the new normal bedtime." Prepare for sleep before you board For me its the pregame, Brown tells Yahoo Life. From her airport attire to what she packs for the plane and eats or drinks before takeoff, Brown makes sure she and the rest of her family, including her 11-year-old twins, are prepared to snooze. Here are her tried-and-true tips after 25 years as a professional traveler: Avoid caffeine: Brown recommends turning down the in-flight coffee service so that the caffeine doesn't keep you up. Dress to sleep: You want to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, so you dont get too hot or too cold. According to Brown, that also means "no underwire bras, no tight waistband because we all expand, we all bloat a little on a plane. Eat in the airport: When Im at the airport, I eat a big meal. I dont eat on the plane, says Brown, explaining that she doesnt want the meal service to disrupt her sleep. If you have time, walk: I walk and walk and walk the terminal and try to wear myself out, so by the time I get to my seat all I do is rest and go to sleep," Brown says. Do your pre-bed routine before you board: The best thing is to make sure [you and] the kids have gone to the bathroom, brushed teeth all those signals [that] were calming things down a bit," she adds. Avoid screens and alcohol on the plane Like Brown, Rob Taylor, the founder and lead journalist for the LGBTQ family travel blog 2TravelDads.com, is a frequent flier. His two biggest pieces of advice for sleeping on a plane are to avoid screens and alcohol, advice that is scientifically supported. Davis agrees. Its hard traveling because they also put a TV right [in] your face, and avoiding bright lights is an important part of promoting sleep," he says. "With my children [on a plane], the first thing they want to do is check out the movies or games, but whatever you can do to limit that to a reasonable time frame is important." And it's maybe not the best time to catch up on all those films you missed in the theaters. "As we set limits for our kids for screen time on planes, we should also think about setting limits for ourselves," he adds. Adults should also avoid alcohol before flying and while on the plane. Alcohol can negatively impact your sleep architecture, Ortiz explains. [You] may initially fall asleep very quickly but then have sleep fragmentation. That can include erratic dreams and waking up more easily during the flight. Bring a sleep cue object Taylor swears by his neck pillow whereas his husband refuses to travel without noise-canceling headphones. Brown likes to wear an eye mask in case the people next to her are using screens. Whatever your object is, make sure you have it on board because it can make a big difference when trying to fall asleep, advises Davis. Not only do objects like eye masks, headphones, blankets or stuffed animals create a more optimal and comfortable sleep environment, but they can also signal to your body that its time to rest. We are really creatures of habit and have certain cues about triggering sleep, Davis says. Use medication carefully As far as melatonin or over-the-counter and prescription-strength medicine go, using them to aid sleep is an individual decision and people should consult their doctors. Brown has personally found melatonin to be helpful and Taylor may take an Advil PM before boarding, but Davis says its not recommended to try any new medicine especially sleep medications, which tend to have a lot of potential side effects before traveling. However, if you are someone who suffers from flight anxiety, Ortiz recommends asking your doctor about medication that may help with both your stress and sleep. Be aware of medical risks and complications Because people tend to worry about whether or not they will fall asleep on a plane, many are unaware of the risk of being still for so long should they actual get a snooze in. Long flights increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis, cautions Ortiz. Its a clot that forms in your large veins due to laying still for a very long time, and of course long car trips and long air flights are probably the biggest situations when a person may have this, he says. To avoid DVT, Ortiz encourages passengers not to cross their legs for extended periods of time and to move them around and try and straighten them when possible. This doesnt mean people shouldnt sleep when flying, but they should try to balance their need for sleep with some movement during the flight. Also, the amount of oxygen in the air is less than what people breathe on the ground and that can translate to poor sleep if you already have sleep apnea, Davis notes. [If your] sleep quality isnt good to begin with and gets even worse when youre in the sky, you might want to think about a sleep apnea evaluation. A Texas death row inmate set to be executed on Wednesday has admitted to strangling a jogger with her own shoestrings over 25 years ago saying he couldn't help himself but he's fighting the death sentence, saying his confession should never have been admitted in court. Arthur Lee Burton, 54, was convicted of murdering 48-year-old Nancy Adleman on the evening of July 29, 1997, in Houston. Authorities found the mother of three's badly beaten body in a 4-foot hole in a heavily wooded area along Brays Bayou the day after she didn't return home from a run. Burton confessed to attempting to rape Adleman and strangling her with her own shoelaces and later told a prison sociologist that the murder was "just something I couldn't help," according to court records. He was found guilty by a Texas jury in June 1998. If his execution moves forward, Burton will be the third inmate put to death in Texas this year and the 11th in the nation. As Burton's execution nears, USA TODAY is looking back at the crime, who Burton is, and what led him down a path that ended with Adleman's murder. Pictured is death row inmate Arthur Lee Burton. The 54-year-old was convicted in 1998 of murdering a jogger in Houston, Texas. What did Arthur Lee Burton do? Nancy Adleman left her northwest Houston home around 7 p.m. on July 29, 1997, to go on a short jog along Brays Bayou, something she did often. It was the last time her family saw her. When Harris County deputies found Adleman's body the next morning, her shorts and underwear had been removed and discarded, according to court records. Burton, who was arrested 10 days later, originally denied killing the mother of three. But once a Harris County deputy sheriff confronted Burton about evidence found at the scene and the inconsistencies in his statements, the 27-year-old confessed, court records show. In Burton's written statement, he admitted to attacking Adleman, dragging her into the woods, choking her unconscious and removing her shorts and underwear so he could rape her, according to a 2004 court filing. When Adleman regained consciousness and began screaming, Burton choked her unconscious again and dragged her into a hole. As he was about to leave, he saw another person walking nearby, so he returned to the hole and strangled Adleman with her shoelace, the document says. "For any woman who has ever exercised alone, or walked to their car alone at night, this case is their worst nightmare," Josh Reiss, chief of the Post-Conviction Writ Division of the Harris County District Attorneys Office, told USA TODAY. Pictured is Nancy Adleman. She was killed on July 29, 1997 in Houston, Texas after never returning home from a jog near the Brays Bayou. Who is Arthur Lee Burton? During Burton's murder trial, prosecutors painted him as a man who had committed 39 burglaries in a single month when he was 18, court records show Prosecutors said Burton and his co-defendants had stolen guns, radios, fishing equipment, calculators and other items. Burton's brother, Michael Burton, testified in 2002 that his brother started using marijuana at the age of 16 and began selling cocaine when he was 17. Michael Burton also said their father was not a part of their lives and recalled periods when they were on welfare as children, sometimes going without food or electricity, according to a federal appeals document filed by the state in 2010. Michael Burton testified that his brother was common-law married, had three children and a stepchild, and was a hard-working, "good father." He said he never knew his brother to be violent or abusive. Fannie Burton, Burton's mother, testified that her son "loved to build things," while his common-law wife of eight years, Felicia Batts, said he was a "very sweet person who treated her son like he was his own." Batts told the jury that nothing out of the ordinary happened a week before the killing that would have angered Burton. She also said that he came home on the night of the murder with a flat tire on his bicycle and that he was "laughing and seemed normal." The death chamber is seen at the state penitentiary in Huntsville, Texas September 29, 2010. Is Arthur Lee Burton a 'future danger' to society? In Burton's earlier appeals, his attorneys questioned whether the evidence presented in court during his murder and sentencing trials was enough to determine if he was a "future danger" to society. If not, then that may not constitute the death penalty under Texas law, his defense attorneys argued. Burton's attorneys also claimed that the trial court violated his Fifth and Sixth Amendment rights when the prosecution admitted statements made during his interview with prison sociologist J.P. Guyton. The defense attorneys called Guyton's testimony "hearsay" and said their client's comments were made without a Miranda warning or counsel. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals continued to deny Burton's appeals despite his attorney's concerns regarding his case. Burton was sentenced to death twice, in June 1998 and September 2002. His initial conviction was upheld, but his sentence was overturned by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals based on ineffective assistance of counsel. Burton's recent appeal, filed on July 19, addresses inconsistencies in the death warrant copies. Judge Ramona Franklin agreed with Burton's attorneys and recalled the death warrant. But the Texax Court of Criminal Appeals restored Burton's execution on July 30 after agreeing that the state "individually signed and certified" each death warrant, therefore it did comply with state statutes. Burton's attorneys filed another appeal on July 30, arguing that the state does not have the right to take the life of an "intellectually disabled" offender. This appeal was denied on Aug. 1, thus ending Burtons state court proceedings. Kathryn Johnson, Burton's attorney, recently told USA TODAY that her client has his family and friends supporting him as he tries to get through this process. "It is certainly a very hard experience for him and for his family, as well dealing with the uncertainty that comes into play," she said. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Texas man admitted to killing mother of 3. Now he's fighting execution Just go hug your little one, squeeze them tight for me, Allen concluded in the announcement David Allen/Instagram David Allen poses with newborn baby TikTok star David Allen is mourning the death of his daughter Lily, who died five weeks after her birth. The social media influencer, whose username is ToTouchAnEmu, shared the news on Instagram and TikTok on Sunday, Aug. 4. The influencer began the Instagram post by noting how his initial TikTok video provided him with many great opportunities. "I met a lot of cool people, celebrities, be[en] on shows, interviews, things like that. It was really neat," he said. However, as he continued, he announced the death of his daughter. But the coolest thing I ever did was welcome my baby, Lily, into this world with my wife, Jessica," he said. She was five weeks old about a week ago when she passed away at midnight. Lily was born on June 21. She died on July 27. Allen did not reveal her cause of death. David Allen/Instagram David Allen's August 4, 2024 Instagram Related: TikTokers Alex Madison and Jon Bouffard Announce Pregnancy Loss: Our Hearts Will Never Be the Same I have cried every tear I can possibly cry. I think it's not easy, Allen said. I don't wish this on anybody. I don't even really know what to say. Allen explained that he had waited a week to even mention it because [he] didn't know how to talk about it. He continued, I don't really know what else to say. I just want to get it out there. Just go hug your little one, squeeze them tight for me, he concluded the video. He received supportive messages on both Instagram and TikTok. No parent should ever outlive their child. I'm so sorry man , one user said on Instagram. Another wrote, I can't begin to fathom the range of emotions that you and Jess are going through. This is immensely difficult to hear. May Light Perpetual Shine Upon Her. Related: Social Media Influencer Veruca Salt Reveals Newborn Baby Died in His Sleep Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Allen shared with his 10 million followers interested in providing for the family that they can donate to Children's Medical Center Dallas in her name, Lily Grace Allen. If you want to send something to me or my wife or our family, I have an address on my page," Allen said, before providing the details of her memorial service. Although it is only open to those invited, Allen said his followers could send us flowers or a card, you can do that too. The memorial for Lily Grace Allen will be on Aug. 6 at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Home in Colleyville, Texas. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. IT solutions provider Atturra has expanded its sovereign cloud capabilities by deploying new infrastructure in NextDC s S3 data centre in Artarmon, Sydney. This expansion will allow the company to meet rapidly growing client demand for domestically located cloud compute and storage capacity. It will also enhance Atturras ability to support the increasing need for artificial intelligence (AI) -as-a-service workloads for clients across Australia. The new S3 deployment is based on a composable compute platform providing fluid resources for up to 36 servers and 400 terabytes of storage. Chris McLaughlin, executive general manager of managed services at Atturra, said Atturras preference is to use Tier IV certified data centres and NextDC S3 fits that requirement. The proximity of the data centre to our engineers and customers is also a factor, he said. In the past, we have had power restrictions in some locations. However, we dont expect this to be an issue in the near future. He told ARN that the company has engineered all of its locations to endure multiple link failures and still be operational. This has resulted in our downtime in the last 12 months being measured in just a few minutes, McLaughlin said. For Atturras clients, the new capacity will mean faster provisioning times together with the ability to connect to other Atturra services. These include our AI-powered services that were recently announced in conjunction with HPE and Nuix, said McLaughlin. According to McLaughlin, Atturra selected HPE Synergy as its primary composable compute platform. Unlike traditional converged infrastructure, the fluid resource pools for storage, networking, and compute resources are not bound by fixed ratios, he said. This flexibility allows us to dynamically compose, tear down, and recompose resources based on workload requirements, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. While the unified application programming interface streamlines automation, it also integrates seamlessly with Atturras deployment tools. This reduces the time and effort required for onboarding, allowing us to deliver faster and more efficient solutions, said McLaughlin. Atturra will also continue to use VMware across its platforms, with this expansion enabling it to be more agnostic with its customers choice of hypervisor. We will be able to offer AI-powered services to our existing private cloud customers out of the same location, said McLaughlin. The proximity to each other ensures minimal latency between these workloads. He noted that an increased number of clients are coming to realise that not all compute workloads are suited to the platforms provided by cloud hyperscalers. We are seeing customers repatriating workloads that would have historically defaulted to the public cloud, McLaughlin said. When completed, the cloud capacity will become part of Atturras national private cloud capacity served out of multiple NextDC data centres. The new private cloud capacity will also be used to host a variety of workloads for Atturra clients, including infrastructure-as-a-service and platform-as-a-service deployments. Object storage, firewalls, and backup-as-a-service will also be offered. Atturra expects to consolidate many of the services from its related cloud acquisitions into this environment, although McLaughlin was unable to give ARN any specifics. Steve Martin, head of sales, major markets Australia at NextDC, said, Atturras expertise in the AI space is well-established. This collaboration underscores our mission to provide robust, scalable, AI-ready infrastructure that meets the future growth requirements of our partners and their clients. Industry veteran Mark Ullah is launching his self-named consultancy gig, leveraging years of experience to help company founders supercharge market growth. Ullah said his main focus was to work on business improvement, growth and innovation projects with progressive business leaders. Over the last 20 years, Ullahs expertise has been grounded in business improvement and innovation. With experience in senior leadership roles across both large corporations and smaller enterprises, Ullah has honed an ability to identify and capitalise on growth opportunities that others might overlook. In a world where businesses often struggle with stagnant or negative growth, business leaders require holistic, real-world advice, not theoretical best practice, he said. Ullahs approach is grounded in real-world pragmatism, something that sets him apart from traditional big four consultants. Having launched, scaled, and managed several businesses himself, Ullah brings a depth of understanding that only stems from experience. My main focus is working with innovative business leaders to improve and hyper scale their business, he said. I am in there to help them understand how, through leveraging innovation and outside-the-box thinking, they can differentiate in the market and really scale their businesses. Ullah said his focus was on incremental innovation whether thats developing new products or improving existing products; improving business processes or driving better efficiency in their business. He also looks at business model innovation, changing the way a company creates and captures value and service innovation analysing what services are provided and if theyre landing well with customers. Ullah also focuses on merger and acquisition activity, such as exit planning and getting the business into a commercially sensible shape, along with working with private equity to conduct commercial due diligence to identify areas of untapped value. Ullahs experience, spanning sales, marketing, operations, commercial strategy, and technology, equips him to quickly diagnose challenges and craft tailored strategies that drive efficiency, cut costs, and foster market-creating innovations. One of the biggest challenges for business owners is the ability to disrupt themselves, Ullah said. Products and services are typically under fire from competitors all the time but, because business owners have been successful in the past, it doesnt mean their products and services are successful in the future; they fail to see, or acknowledge the emerging threat, he said. One of the biggest issues Ullah spies is that owners are typically too focused on revenue and not profitability. A lot of people will have great top line revenue numbers, but their profitability is under five per cent, which means their costs are tracking in line with their revenues which is an unhealthy business, he said. Other big issues include cash flow, technology disruptions, talent management, skills gaps, brand awareness and operational inefficiencies along with declining growth and the inability to innovate on the right things, Ullah added. To help improve this, Ullah focuses on a five key areas of innovation: product innovation, process innovation, business model innovation, service innovation and business transaction innovation, as well as collaboration and partnerships, market analysis, strategy and vision. If youre not pushing, challenging or questioning, then youre probably stagnant and may be going backwards and just dont know it. I do respectfully challenge the status quo, but its to extract the greatest value for my clients, Ullah said. After a provisional government was announced, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party has re-emerged on the political scene. Its leader, Khaleda Zia, is free and her son seems poised to run. Hindus and Christians have been attacked, but this was not part of the protests. University students risk being marginalised if they do not become politically organised. Dhaka (AsiaNews) Bangladesh is now waiting to see what happens after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned in the wake of almost a month of protests. Yesterday, General Waker Uz Zaman, Chief of Army Staff, addressed the nation announcing the formation of a transitional government to lead the country to new elections within 90 days. Muhammad Yunus, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006, has accepted the position of advisor as requested by university students, who broke the news this morning on their Facebook accounts. But it is opposition parties, excluded from power for years, that now seem set to capitalise on the success of the student movement, which started at a grassroots level with no political affiliation, an anonymous source explained. "The protests, initially over quotas in state jobs and then against the government, were not linked to opposition political parties, such as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) or the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami. Civil society groups were the first to join the students; doctors, lawyers, artists, professionals of various kinds decided to support the cause against a government that became increasingly authoritarian in the past 15 years, characterised by the repression of dissent and control of information. For the source, now former Prime Minister Hasina made several mistakes. She did not understand that the protests were symptoms of widespread youth malaise. She called the students "terrorists" and, despite Internet shutdown, videos of police violence against unarmed young people and minors fuelled popular anger. After her resignation was announced, thousands of people poured into the streets yesterday, occupying the Parliament, storming the Ganabhaban, the Prime Ministers Residence, and took what they found: chickens, fish and even an elliptical exercise machine that belonged to the prime minister. A statue of Sheikh Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the independence leader considered the founding father of Bangladesh, was also beheaded. This new wave of protests was made possible by the military, which decided not to intervene after weeks of violence that brought the death toll to over 440, according to local sources, and the arrests of more than 10,000. Yesterday alone, more than a hundred people were killed. Meanwhile, members of religious minorities, considered Awami League voters and supporters, have been attacked. The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council reported incidents affecting minorities in 29 districts of the country. At least nine Hindu temples were damaged and several houses looted. Some miscreants also forcibly looted domestic animals because the victims supported the Awami League, said Nirmol Rozario, president of the Bangladesh Christian Association, speaking to AsiaNews. Several Christian families reported that their homes were vandalised due to their support for the Awami League. This should not happen. I call for the security of minorities. Missionary schools in the dioceses of Dhaka and Khulna and the Caritas office were also attacked. Cardinal Patrick D'Rozario, archbishop emeritus of Dhaka, called for the restoration of peace. We are so much saddened and our hearts are mournful because of the number of casualties, the prelate said. We are also witnessing revengeful actions against people of the former regime and destructions of national and individual properties and vandalising the historical and cultural heritages built since independence of Bangladesh. We pray that all people respect and honour our past traditions and heritage where we all have been rooted. At this critical moment, our only pursuit is peace. Violence breeds violence. Hence, let us avoid all kinds of violent actions and revenge and opt for peace. "The BNP [also] had asked not to commit acts of vandalism," the source said. "It is not the party line and it has never been that of the students. In fact, the BNP had previously tried to provoke momentum against the government, but without success. Only later did it support the demands of university students. And now, the student movement, without clear leaders, seems to have been relegated to the margins. Instead, opposition leaders have reappeared. Khaleda Zia, historic leader of the BNP and rival of Sheikh Hasina since the 1990s, was released from house arrest, where she was being held on corruption charges. Several protesters arrested during the unrest were also freed along with her, but "these are two different types of prisoners," the source stressed. In his televised address, General Zaman, said that he had held talks with the main opposition parties about the transitional government, but not with Hasinas Awami League, which will not likely run in the next election and if it did, it would win few votes because its members are seen as enemy of the nation. Khaleda Zia's eldest son, Tarique Rahman, sent a message from London (where he is in self-imposed exile), indicating that he is ready to run for the leadership of the country after the end of the Hasina regime. Rahman has lived in the United Kingdom since 2008, the year when her mother lost the election to Hasina. He was tried and found guilty on several charges, including an attack on the Awami League in 2004, but after signing a document vowing not to meddle in Bangladeshi politics, he was allowed to go abroad. Now the future of Bangladesh will depend on young people, civil society, on how much they will be able to form their own political alternatives to the BNP and the Jamaat-e-Islami. The difficulty lies in the fact that it is a movement, with no party organisation, and this could be a problem. (Sumon Corraya contributed to this article) Champion local news. Join our community of readers who value daily beat reporting and in-depth stories alike. Your membership allows us to continue the legacy of local, independent journalism in the Roaring Fork Valley. With your support, we can remain a free and accessible source of news for everyone, always without paywalls or corporate influence. Together, we can ensure that vital local stories are told. The meeting between Nasser Bourita and Elina Valtonen, during the former's official visit to Finland, has underlined the determination of both countries to strengthen their economic and trade relations, so that they can reach their full potential. Finland considers the Moroccan autonomy plan a "good basis for a solution" to the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara. This position was expressed in the joint declaration issued on Tuesday in Helsinki, after the meeting between the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccans Living Abroad, Nasser Bourita, and the Finnish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Elina Valtonen. Sahara The statement said: Finland considers the autonomy plan presented in 2007 to be a serious and credible contribution to the UN-led political process and a good basis for a mutually agreed solution, reiterating Finlands support for the political process aimed at reaching a fair, permanent and mutually acceptable political solution. The Finnish minister also stated that her country considers the Moroccan autonomy plan to be a good basis for a solution to the regional issue over the Moroccan Sahara. According to the statement, Finland considers the autonomy plan presented in 2007 to be a serious and credible contribution to the UN-led political process and a good basis for a mutually acceptable solution. The country reiterates its support for the political process that aims to reach a fair, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution. The two ministers also They expressed their common position on the exclusive role of the United Nations in the political process, reaffirming their support for the resolutions of the UN Security Council and the support of their respective countries for the efforts of the UN Secretary-General's personal envoy to advance this process. This new position of Finland joins the dynamic of international support for Morocco's sovereignty over its Sahara and the autonomy plan, under Moroccan sovereignty, which has been supported by numerous countries in recent years under the leadership of King Mohammed VI and the international dynamism that has driven the monarch to action of Moroccan diplomacy that has succeeded in getting many countries around the world to express their support for the autonomy plan for the Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty. Finland's position is a considerable advance on its previous positions and is the first Nordic country to officially and explicitly support the autonomy proposal presented by Morocco. It represents a position of the State, emanating from all its components, executive and legislative. The decision was taken in consultation with the Finnish President and following consultations at government level and with the Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee. Finland's support reinforces the momentum that is being registered in the European Union regarding the Moroccan Sahara issue. Finland is the seventeenth member state of the European Union to support autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty and comes only one week after the significant evolution of France's position on the Moroccan Sahara issue. Bourita's visit to the Scandinavian country coincides with the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Finland and Morocco, and comes a few months after the Speaker of the Finnish Parliament, Jussi Halla-aho, visited Rabat at the end of last May. PHOTO/SOCIAL MEDIA - The Moroccan and Finnish foreign ministers greet the respective delegations During the meeting, held on Tuesday, 6 August in Helsinki, Bourita and Valtonen reviewed a number of issues of mutual interest, including trade relations, security in the Sahel and Morocco's plans for the Sahara region. Business Forum The two Foreign Ministers pledged to expand their annual political meetings to include economic and trade issues. To this end, and according to the communique following the meeting, a business forum is to be organised, to take place in 2025, which will bring together economic actors from both countries, promoting cooperation between the two countries. The ministers analysed the economic sectors that can offer comparative advantages for collaboration, such as digitalisation, specifically cybersecurity, as well as the deployment of secure 5G networks, which are a priority and key to national security and a digital economy based on trust. Water and renewable energy During the meeting, Bourita and Valtonen recalled the existence of the two memoranda of understanding between Morocco and Finland, which concern the renewable energy sectors and the integrated management of water services, including concrete measures for their implementation. Both issues are a priority for the Moroccan government and Finland can offer very important assistance, thanks to its extensive experience in smart water-related technologies and solutions. The two ministers therefore encouraged the experts to explore new areas for collaboration. In the field of renewable energies, the two ministers identified possible solutions to support the green transition, particularly through the exploitation of so-called green hydrogen, on which Morocco and Finland could collaborate. The importance of new technologies was also raised in areas such as health and welfare, another of Morocco's priorities, which is undergoing a major transformation of the health sector. Supporting Morocco's role in security Bourita and Valtonen also discussed Morocco's role in relations between the European Union and Africa, as well as in strengthening regional cooperation and stability in the region, the fight against terrorism and migration management. Nasser Bourita expressed, on behalf of Morocco, its appreciation for Finland's African strategy and its willingness to contribute to it through tripartite cooperation with African countries. In this respect, the two countries undertook to deepen their collaboration in forums such as the UN, in particular its Human Rights Council, which Morocco will chair in 2024 and of which Finland is Vice-President. Sahel For her part, the Finnish Foreign Minister praised Morocco's efforts to promote peace, stability and socio-economic development in Africa, especially the Royal Initiative of Mohammed VI to facilitate the access of Sahel countries to the Atlantic Ocean. In the communique issued at the end of the meeting, Finland underlined Morocco's political stability and welcomed the reforms undertaken under the leadership of the Moroccan monarch, with a view to a more open and dynamic Moroccan society and economy. 6 August 2024 13:34 (UTC+04:00) Ulviyya Shahin Read more Georgia is looking to increase its gasoline supply from Azerbaijan, as stated by Vakhtang Lobashvili, Chairman of the Union of Oil Products Importers of Georgia. This move is anticipated to be driven by the recent modernization of oil plants in Azerbaijan, which is expected to enhance the capacity and efficiency of oil production in the neighboring country. The current fuel prices in Georgia reflect a significant financial burden on consumers. The average price of EU-95 gasoline stands at 3.16 lari (2.15 manats) per liter, while EU-98 gasoline is priced at 3.62 lari (2.30 manats) per liter. Diesel fuel is priced at 3.32 lari (2.11 manats) per liter, and LPG gas is available at 1.53 lari (0.97 manats) per liter. These figures indicate a notable expense for Georgian consumers and businesses reliant on fuel. The price pressures on fuel in Georgia can be attributed to various factors, including international oil market fluctuations, supply chain constraints, and local taxation policies. By increasing the supply of gasoline from Azerbaijan, Georgia aims to stabilize and potentially reduce fuel prices, which could alleviate some of the financial pressure on consumers and businesses. The modernization of Azerbaijan's oil plants is a strategic move to enhance the countrys oil production capabilities. This modernization includes upgrading refining technologies, expanding production capacity, and improving the overall efficiency of oil processing facilities. The expected increase in supply from Azerbaijan could play a crucial role in addressing the supply-demand imbalance in the Georgian market. In the broader context, Georgia's reliance on imports for its fuel needs underscores the importance of diversifying supply sources to ensure energy security and price stability. Strengthening ties with Azerbaijan, a key regional energy player, could offer Georgia a more stable and potentially cost-effective fuel supply, contributing to long-term economic benefits. The anticipated increase in gasoline supply from Azerbaijan could serve as a significant step toward easing fuel price pressures in Georgia, benefiting both consumers and businesses. As the situation develops, monitoring the impact of these changes on fuel prices and overall economic conditions in Georgia will be essential for understanding the broader implications of this strategic move. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 6 August 2024 16:32 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Azerbaijan and the Central Asian nations have established a robust collaborative framework across various economic sectors. As an active participant in the "green transition" initiative, Azerbaijan has emerged as a key proponent of projects aimed at the production and export of renewable energy within the region. In a significant development, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan have formalized their cooperation with the adoption of a pivotal document concerning the export of "green energy." During a recent meeting of the relevant ministry heads from these three countries, a Joint Communique was signed. This document outlines the collaborative efforts in energy exchange with a focus on renewable energy sources, including the export of "green energy." On August 6, Azerbaijan will engage in the inaugural meeting of energy ministers from Central Asian countries in Astana. The meeting will be chaired by Kazakhstan's Energy Minister, Almasadam Satkaliyev. At the upcoming meeting, the energy ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, along with the Deputy Energy Minister of Azerbaijan, are scheduled to address the assembly. It is noteworthy that during the tripartite meeting held in November of the previous year at the Ministry of Economy in Baku, discussions centered on the potential export of electricity from Central Asian countries to Europe via Azerbaijan. The participating parties reached an agreement to establish a joint venture focused on electricity export and to commence preparations for the project's economic feasibility. The meeting, which included the ministers of economy and energy from Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, highlighted that the renewable energy development and export policies of these three countries enable Azerbaijan to serve as a conduit for delivering electricity from Central Asia to Europe. In this context, Azerbaijan, in collaboration with Georgia, Romania, and Hungary, is advancing the development of the Caspian Sea-Black Sea-Europe energy corridor, designed to facilitate the export of 4 GW of electricity. Additionally, plans are underway to transport another 1 GW of "green energy" via the Nakhchivan-Turkiye-Europe route. The integration of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan into these corridors will bolster their cooperation in electricity market development, as well as in the production and supply of "green hydrogen" and ammonia. Azerbaijan's initiative to coordinate and synchronize efforts for the future development of the regional energy system, as well as to foster collaboration on the supply of clean electricity to international markets, is highly commendable. During the recent meeting, the ministers acknowledged the substantial renewable energy potential of their respective countries. They expressed their willingness to participate in the project aimed at exporting electricity from alternative sources to Europe and signed a Joint Communique as a result of their discussions. One month following this event, a Joint Communique was adopted in Baku during a tripartite meeting between Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan. This document addressed the prospects of exporting electricity from Central Asia to Europe via Azerbaijan, covering aspects such as energy exchange focused on renewable sources, the development and export of "green hydrogen" and "green ammonia," and the creation of necessary infrastructure. The agreement outlined in the Communique included the establishment of a joint venture for electricity export and preparation for the project's economic justification. It also specified that other regional countries could join the project. The ministers reiterated their countries' potential in renewable energy and reaffirmed their readiness to contribute to the export of electricity from alternative sources to Europe. Azerbaijan's renewable energy resources include a technical potential of 135 GW on land and 157 GW offshore. The economic potential is estimated at 27 GW, comprising 3,000 MW from wind energy, 23,000 MW from solar energy, 380 MW from bioenergy, and 520 MW from mountain river sources. Furthermore, Azerbaijan's renewable energy production policy is guided by the "Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities of Socio-Economic Development," adopted in February 2021. Among the five national priorities outlined, a clean environment and "green growth" are pivotal, setting ambitious new goals. Azerbaijan is making significant progress toward these goals and remains open to further cooperation. Considering the potential for new cooperation through joint projects with Central Asian countries, it is evident that Kazakhstan is advancing towards its "green goals." In 2013, Kazakhstan approved the "National Concept for Transition to a Green Economy up to 2050," which set forth the principles of a green economy as a strategic development path. The concept aims to increase the share of renewable energy in electricity generation from zero to 3 percent by 2020, and further to 30 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2050. These targets are particularly ambitious given Kazakhstan's unique context. As the 14th-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, the country had previously relied mainly on a few Soviet-era hydropower plants for its renewable energy needs. Kazakhstan faces significant climatic extremes, with summer temperatures in the capital, Astana, exceeding 40 degrees Celsius and winter temperatures dropping below -40 degrees Celsius. Addressing these extremes necessitates substantial energy consumption for both heating and cooling. To tackle its energy challenges and reduce emissions, Kazakhstan's policy now focuses on developing a more decentralized, balanced, and environmentally friendly energy supply system that leverages a variety of renewable resources. This approach not only acknowledges the countrys substantial fossil fuel reserves but also capitalizes on its favorable conditions for renewable energy development. Collaboration among countries with shared objectives in renewable energy holds significant promise for unlocking new opportunities. The development of the "Green Energy" transmission project is poised to enhance economic and energy connections among the participating nations, providing a new impetus to their national energy sectors. Azerbaijan's potential for collaboration in the renewable energy sector extends notably to Tajikistan. Dilshod Sharifi, head of the International Economic Cooperation Department at the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of Tajikistan, highlighted the potential for joint projects involving hydropower. "Tajikistan's substantial water resources and hydropower potential could benefit from Azerbaijani investment and technology, improving the efficiency of water resource utilization. Both countries enjoy high levels of solar radiation, making them ideal candidates for solar energy projects. Collaborative efforts could include the establishment of solar parks, installation of solar panels, and the creation of joint research centers focused on "green technologies,"he added. These initiatives would help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Turning to Turkmenistan, where up to 70 percent of the territory is desert, there is significant potential for solar energy production. Despite the challenges posed by its desert landscape, Turkmenistan's solar energy potential is complemented by wind energy resources. The UAEs "Masdar" company, which has invested in Azerbaijan, is also set to develop "green energy" projects in Turkmenistan. Given the high solar exposure300 sunny days annuallyTurkmenistan's potential for solar energy is substantial, despite the high costs associated with green energy production, infrastructure construction, and energy transmission. In Azerbaijan, the collaboration with Masdar has already yielded progress. The Garadagh Solar Power Plant, which began operations last year, represents the first foreign-invested energy project in Azerbaijan. Additionally, foundations have been laid for the Neftchala and Bilasuvar Solar Power Stations, as well as the Absheron-Garadagh Wind Power Station, with a combined installed capacity of 1000 MW. Kyrgyzstan also presents opportunities for enhanced renewable energy cooperation. During the 16th Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) summit in Tashkent last November, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov emphasized the importance of leveraging the ECO member countries' potential for renewable energy development. He called for focused efforts on developing effective mechanisms for the economic advancement of member states, with renewable energy as a key area. Moreover, during President Japarov's state visit to Azerbaijan in April this year, 18 agreements were signed, including a "Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Energy" between Azerbaijan's Ministry of Energy and Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Energy. This memorandum opens up significant prospects for deepening energy cooperation between the two nations. Azerbaijan's proactive role in fostering renewable energy partnerships with Central Asian countries underscores its commitment to a sustainable future. By spearheading the development of key energy projects and signing pivotal agreements with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan is establishing itself as a central player in the regional green energy landscape. The collaborative efforts, including the advancement of the "green energy" transmission project and various bilateral agreements, are set to enhance energy connections, drive economic growth, and support the global transition to cleaner energy sources. As these nations work together to leverage their renewable resources, they pave the way for a more sustainable and interconnected energy future. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 6 August 2024 08:30 (UTC+04:00) Elnur Enveroglu Read more European and Western institutions have once again shown their true intentions by acting from their biased positions. From 2020 until today, the political agents of Europe, suffering from serious anxiety syndrome, can neither calm down nor retreat from their pro-Armenian positions. Toivo Klaar, EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia, was remembered for a very regrettable step when he was about to leave his 10-year term. In fact, it is not something new that we witness in this region, but at least being honest once in life when especially completing the service, would be a generous step. Toivo Klaar's biased comment also spontaneously invalidates the meetings held by Europe, either in Brussels or in the United States, under the name of "peace platform". The unjust position of the EU Special Representative literally breaks the balance of the scales of justice. Klaar says that the EU did not play an active role in Azerbaijan-Armenia relations until 2020. His role was mostly to support the "work" of the former Minsk Group co-chairs. The activity of the European Union started mostly after 2020, i.e. after the period when Azerbaijan liberated its territories from Armenian occupation during the Patriotic War. Does the West seem to be more aggressor than Armenia? Undoubtedly, the fact that Azerbaijani territories were once under occupation could not worry the West as much as it does now. Western and European institutions, organizations, and politicians thought that time was in their favour until a war broke out in Garabagh with Armenias provocations. They believed that the Garabagh conflict would be permanently frozen and the conflict status would be removed after some time. However, Azerbaijan's changing geostrategic situation in the South Caucasus disappointed the parties and even made them suffer from anxiety syndrome. Realities behind Wests "Peace Talks Platform" Although the Garabagh conflict ended with the victory of Azerbaijan in the just struggle, the Western side still refuses to comply with realities. The negotiation process, which is deliberately prolonged, either is cancelled with an excuse every time, or remains fruitless until the next negotiation process thrown by a third party for Armenias favour. For example, the West, which said that the processes between Armenia and Azerbaijan were progressing positively after the last negotiations, soon brought up the unnecessary issue of the release of separatist criminals imprisoned in Baku at the request of Armenia. Later, it led to a baseless accusation against Baku, regarding Armenians who voluntarily moved from Garabagh to Armenia. Toivo Klaar's comment is part of these unjust statements. He does not mention the fate of Azerbaijanis who were displaced from current Armenian territories in the late 1980s and from Garabagh following the first Garabagh War in the 1990s. His biased position pushes beyond Armenia's claims. Nevertheless, why so much zeal, and so much initiative in peace negotiations? Maybe it is time to make the position clear and say who is with which side and what they are serving. It turns out that Armenia gains time with the support of their European allies by prolonging the negotiation process. However, Baku is blamed when things go wrong and do not match the plan of Western institutions. The European representative is already preparing to hand over his post to his new colleague, and the Council appoints Magdalena Grono as EUSR for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia. And we still try to find answer to the question of whether this will change anything, or is it worth believing that the arrival of the new representative will bring a positive atmosphere to the region? --- Elnur Enveroglu is AzerNews deputy editor-in-chief, follow him on @ElnurMammadli1 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 6 August 2024 13:55 (UTC+04:00) Ulviyya Shahin Read more The "Green Card" international insurance service will be available in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan, Azernews reports, citing the Compulsory Insurance Bureau. The "Green Card" system was established in 1949 under the Working Group on Road Transport of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe to facilitate international transport and regulate damages within this system. Car owners registered in countries that are members of the system can obtain insurance coverage when visiting other member countries if they hold "Green Card" insurance. Since 2016, the Compulsory Insurance Bureau has been a member of the International Council of Bureaus, the managing organization of the "Green Card" system, and "Green Card" insurance has been introduced in Azerbaijan. Initially, the "Green Card" system could not be applied in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, which limited insurance coverage to other geographical areas of the country. After the restoration of Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and sovereignty, the Compulsory Insurance Bureau reached out to the International Council of Bureaus to request the removal of the geographical restrictions regarding the provision of the "Green Card" in Azerbaijan. As a result of cooperation and efforts, the territorial restrictions on this service have been lifted. Thus, by the decision of the 58th General Assembly of the United Nations, held in London, the documents related to the territorial application of the "Geographic Scope List and Automobile Insurance Directive" of the "Green Card" system were updated and approved. This decision removed the geographical limitations concerning Azerbaijan and redefined the territorial authority of the Compulsory Insurance Bureau within the country's internationally recognized borders. Additionally, on July 18 of this year, the Secretariat of the International Council of Bureaus notified all member bureaus to amend the "Green Card" models concerning Azerbaijan. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 6 August 2024 13:12 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Mukhtar Babayev, Azerbaijan's Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, recently met with a Kyrgyz delegation led by Azis Saparaliev, the acting Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision, Azernews reports. This meeting was significant as it aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the areas of environmental protection and natural resource management. A key topic of discussion was the upcoming 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, which is set to be held in Azerbaijan later this year. This conference is a crucial platform for countries to negotiate and implement strategies to combat climate change, address greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable development. During the meeting, both ministers emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to tackle climate change and its impacts on both countries. They also explored ways to share best practices, technologies, and experiences related to ecological conservation and resource management. The discussions included potential joint initiatives and projects that could be presented at COP29, highlighting the commitment of both nations to address pressing environmental challenges. The meeting underscores the growing importance of regional cooperation in environmental matters, particularly in the context of international climate negotiations. As Azerbaijan prepares to host COP29, engaging with other nations like Kyrgyzstan reflects its proactive approach to fostering partnerships and building a coalition for effective climate action. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 6 August 2024 16:17 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more A meeting took place between Bahrom Ashrafkhanov, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Azerbaijan, and Mukhtar Babayev, the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, Azernews reports. The discussion focused on the preparatory arrangements for the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), which will be held in Azerbaijan this November. COP29 is a pivotal global summit where countries will convene to address climate change issues, negotiate agreements, and advance international efforts to mitigate global warming. Additionally, the meeting explored potential avenues for future collaboration between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan in the field of environmental protection, emphasizing shared goals and initiatives for sustainable development. It should be noted that this global summit will bring together representatives from countries around the world to discuss and negotiate actions on climate change. The conference aims to advance international climate policies, review progress on existing agreements, and establish new commitments to combat global warming and promote sustainable development. COP29 is a critical platform for fostering global cooperation and addressing the pressing challenges of climate change. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 6 August 2024 18:22 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more A joint venture to facilitate the export of green energy from Central Asia to Europe will be established in Baku, according to Orkhan Zeynalov, Deputy Minister of Energy of Azerbaijan, Azernews reports citing Kazakh media. This announcement was made during the inaugural meeting of energy ministers from Central Asian countries in Kazakhstan. Zeynalov confirmed that a technical assignment for a preliminary feasibility study, conducted in collaboration with the Italian consulting firm CESI, has been approved. "The working group has reached an agreement to form a joint venture in Baku. Azerbaijan anticipates that this export corridor will diversify the electricity markets of Central Asian nations. These initiatives are expected to enhance energy security, advance the development of the Middle Corridor, and strengthen integration between Azerbaijan and Central Asian countries," Zeynalov stated. It is noteworthy that on December 17, 2022, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania, and Hungary signed a strategic partnership agreement to construct an energy bridge from the Caucasus to Europe. This agreement includes the development of a Black Sea Energy submarine cable with a capacity of 1,000 MW, spanning 1,195 kilometers. The cable will transport green electricity from Azerbaijan through Georgia and the Black Sea to Romania, with further distribution to Hungary and other European regions. This project aims to supply up to four gigawatts of green energy. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 6 August 2024 12:33 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more The Days of Vietnam has been organized in Baku to mark the 65th anniversary of the visit of Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh to Azerbaijan, Azernews reports. The Vietnamese delegation, who visited Baku with the support of the Small and Medium Business Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (KOBIA) to participate in the Days of Vietnam, got acquainted with the Heydar Aliyev Center and handed over archival photographs to the center reflecting the historic visit of National Leader Heydar Aliyev to Vietnam in 1983. Based on the partnership between KOBIA and the Vietnam National Entrepreneurship Association (VINEN), a business forum was held with the participation of entrepreneurs from both countries, and relevant cooperation documents were signed. Speaking at the forum, the Azerbaijani Ambassador to Vietnam Shovgi Mehdizade emphasized the historical significance of the visit that took place 65 years ago, and said that the historical ties of friendship and cooperation established by the leaders of the two nations - Heydar Aliyev and Ho Chi Minh - are successfully developing today. As part of the visit, the Vietnamese delegation met with Chairman of the Board of KOBIA Orkhan Mammadov, Chairman of the State Tourism Agency Fuad Nagiyev, Rector of the State University of Tourism and Management Ilham Madatov and Director of the National History Museum oFarhad Jabbarov, where they discussed areas of further cooperation. The premiere of the film "ao, Pho va Piano" (Peach, Pho and Piano), organized by the Azerbaijani Embassy of Azerbaijan in Vietnam, the Ministries of Culture and Film Associations of both countries, took place at the Nizami Cinema Center. Additionally, the Azerbaijani and Vietnamese chefs presented delicious Vietnamese cuisine in one of the famous culinary centers of Baku. Members of the Vietnamese delegation became guests of the Khazar TV channel. The events dedicated to the 65th anniversary of the visit of former Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh to the capital of Azerbaijan will continue throughout the year in the cities of Baku and Hanoi. ---- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Nizami Cinema Center has solemnly celebrated National Cinema Day, Azernews reports. The gala event, which marked the 126th anniversary of the Azerbaijani cinematography, brought together public and cultural figures and film enthusiasts. Before the event, the guests got acquainted with the exhibition dedicated to national cinematography in front of the Nizami Cinema Center. The equipment and techniques used in film shooting from the silent phase of the Azerbaijani cinematography until the end of the Soviet era were displayed at the exhibition. Speaking at the event, Deputy Culture Minister Saadat Yusifova stressed that Azerbaijani cinema was established along with the history of world cinema and went through a great development in parallel. She underlined that Azerbaijani cinema has experienced many ups and downs and undergone various transformations. Despite all challenges, the national cinema has remained loyal to its traditions, high moral values, and love of art. "The development of modern Azerbaijani cinema is inextricably linked with the name of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev. The Great Leader has always paid special attention to this field, taking into account the influence of cinema on the society as a whole and the possibility of its penetration into all areas of life. Currently, President Ilham Aliyev is directing the development of national cinematography, important steps are being taken in this direction," said Saadat Yusifova Chairman of the Azerbaijan Film-Makers Union, People's Artist Rasim Balayev spoke about the work done in the direction of the development of cinematography in Azerbaijan. He underlined that the national film art has entered a new stage of development, and artists working in the field of cinema are surrounded by the attention from the state. People's Artist Rasim Balayev noted that President Ilham Aliyev has recently awarded Azerbaijan's film workers, which serves as an example of the care shown by the head of state to the Azerbaijani cinema industry. Film director, People's Artist, Professor Ogtay Mirgasimov said that according to the decision of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, National Cinema Day has been celebrated for 24 years. He congratulated the film workers on the occasion of the professional holiday and wished them further success in their profession. Acting director general of the Azerbaijan Film Agency, Honored Art Worker Orkhan Fikratoglu hailed the successful path of Azerbaijani cinematography, noting great artists and masters in the field of cinematography. Honored Art Worker Orkhan Fikratoglu also drew attention to Azerbaijan Film Agency's activities. He noted that the agency played a significant role in conveying our national traditions to the world and in the formation of certain moral values in the society. Other prominent cinema figures, who addressed the event, praised the success of the Azerbaijani films at the international level. Next, a video about Azerbaijan Film Agency's was shown to the guests of the gala ceremony. Later, a group of film workers were awarded for their services in the development of Azerbaijani cinema. Producer Ali-Sattar Guliyev, actor Rasim Jafar, producers Emil Najafov and Orkhan Mardan were handed with traditional Azerbaijan Film-Makers Union Award 2024 In the continuation of the event, a short film in the psychological drama genre called "Monologue of a Lonely Man" was shown. The film is about a participant in the Second Karabakh War. The director and screenwriter of the film is Emin Afandiyev, cameraman-Daniel Guliyev, producer-Sarvar Bayramov. The film cast includes Mahir Darvish and Elshan Asgarov. ---- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 6 August 2024 17:16 (UTC+04:00) "Kazakhstan supports the expansion of cooperation in the field of gas with Azerbaijan and other countries in the Central Asian region." Azernews reports that this statement was made by Almasadam Satkaliyev, the Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan. During his speech at the first meeting of energy ministers of Asian countries in Astana today, the minister noted that Kazakhstan is currently beginning to implement a global project focused on the development and transmission of green energy in collaboration with Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan. He added that the country is actively discussing the construction of the Kambarata SES-1 large-scale hydropower plant with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. "In this regard, I propose that we consider the possibilities of implementing similar projects, particularly in the gas sector, with the countries in the region," A. Satkaliyev stated. According to him, Central Asian countries are currently facing global instability in energy resource supply, fluctuations in oil and gas prices, and other challenges. "To ensure reliable energy supply, we need to develop mechanisms related to forecasting and managing these challenges, as well as strengthen cooperation among our countries," the Kazakh minister suggested. He also urged his colleagues to intensify efforts to enhance cooperation by expanding energy trade opportunities, developing low-carbon initiatives, achieving carbon neutrality, and ensuring a phased energy transition. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 6 August 2024 08:00 (UTC+04:00) Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan discussed the further advancement of a multifaceted partnership between the two countries, Azernews reports citing a source in the Kazakh presidential administration. "The head of state received the assistant to the President of Uzbekistan, Saida Mirziyoyeva. During the meeting, current issues of further advancing the multifaceted partnership between the two countries were discussed," the source said. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted the allied and strategic nature of the interaction between the country and Uzbekistan. He drove home the point about the need to establish strong connections between the administrations of the presidents to ramp up the high-level political dialogue. Special attention was paid to deepening mutually beneficial cooperation in the informational and ideological, cultural and humanitarian, and educational spheres, as well as in the field of youth policy. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 6 August 2024 09:00 (UTC+04:00) The United Kingdom finds itself gripped by a wave of unrest, with more than 420 people arrested since the beginning of widespread disturbances, Azernews reports, citing the Times. The protests, which have at times escalated into violent clashes with police and instances of looting, have been ongoing for nearly a week. The catalyst for the unrest was the tragic killing of three children in the town of Southport, followed by rumors circulating about the identity of the attacker. Axel Rudakubana, a 17-year-old of Rwandan descent whose family had fled to Britain to escape genocide, was arrested in connection with the knife attack that claimed the lives of three young girls and injured eight others during a children's dance workshop. A yoga teacher and a staff member at the venue also suffered serious injuries. In the wake of the incident, protesters have called on British authorities to curb what they perceive as uncontrolled immigration into the country. The situation has become so severe that some MPs are urging Prime Minister Keir Starmer to interrupt the parliamentary recess and convene an emergency session to address the crisis. However, the government has thus far resisted such demands. On August 5, a meeting of the government's emergency Cobra committee is scheduled to take place, focusing on the issue of the ongoing riots. 6 August 2024 22:21 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva Scientists and agronomists in Turkiye are planning to plant drought-resistant tea varieties in order to reduce the impact of climate change on the country's agriculture, Azernews reports. The project is being implemented in the northeastern Turkish province of Rize through the joint efforts of specialists from CAYKUR, TUBITAK Research Center and Recep Tayyip Erdogan University. As part of the initiative, four drought-resistant tea varieties from Azerbaijan, China and Japan were imported to Turkiye. In addition, the features of 2,034 types of tea stored in the National Tea Gene Repository of Turkiye were studied, which made it possible to select 12 varieties in laboratory conditions, which will be planted on special plantations and studied for three years. As a result, a decision will be made on the most drought-resistant tea variety, which will preserve yields. It should be noted that according to the results of the first half of the year, Turkiye supplied 2,898 tons of tea to 112 countries of the world, which brought the country about $ 14 million. Belgium, the United Kingdom and the United States remain the largest markets for Turkish tea. Almost half (49 percent) of tea exports from Turkiye go to the Black Sea province of Rize. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 6 August 2024 20:47 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva Tajikistan and Iran have been introducing a visa-free regime for holders of general-purpose foreign passports since August 10, Azernews reports. "Starting from August 10, 2024, a Memorandum of Understanding between the governments of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran on the abolition of visas for holders of general-purpose foreign passports will come into force," the message says. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that according to the document, holders of civil passports of the two countries have the right to visit the territory of the parties without a visa for a period of 30 days within 90 days from the moment of the first entry. It is clarified that at the first stage, the introduction of a visa-free system will be carried out only for those who use air services on the route Dushanbe-Tehran and Tehran-Dushanbe. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 6 August 2024 23:30 (UTC+04:00) On Tuesday, President Mohammed Shahabuddin of Bangladesh dissolved the parliament, marking the end of ex-Premier Sheikh Hasina's tenure, Azernews reports citing Anadolu Agency. This decision follows weeks of protests over government job quotas that prompted Hasina to seek refuge in India. The current parliament was established following the contentious national elections held on January 7, which were boycotted by major opposition parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its ally, Jamaat-e-Islami. In a statement, the presidency noted that the dissolution was made after consultations with the chiefs of the armed forces, political leaders, civil society representatives, and leaders of the student-led protest movement. The students had issued a 24-hour ultimatum for the parliament's dissolution and the formation of an interim government. Additionally, the statement confirmed the release of Khaleda Zia, the prominent opposition leader and BNP head. The 78-year-old, who served as Prime Minister of Bangladesh on two occasions, had been serving a 17-year prison sentence for corruption, imposed in 2018. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By: Hood Richardson Protecting your political accomplices is considered mandatory within both parties. Those who are honest, ethical and are not troublemakers should expect support from those within their political party or faction. Actually, those who are honest, ethical and not troublemakers should get the same support from the opposing party. Otherwise, one group or the other supports dishonesty and troublemakers. This brings us to another uneasy situation. That is voting for candidates simply because they have an R or a D (Republican or Democrat) after their name on the ballot. Take out the national elections for President and Vice President because they are too polarizing. Consider the multitude of other candidates, from governors to senators to commissioners and school boards. Both parties have some good candidates and some very bad candidates. In addition to considering a candidates political party, we should consider all other things we know about them and not vote for those who are not honest or are unethical or enjoy making trouble. Normal people can usually sort through the smoke and mirrors of political battle and the internet in order to figure out who the best candidates are. We should not cling to party loyalty in the face of the red flags. There has been some questionable and disappointing behavior among both Republicans and Democrats who serve on the Boards of Commissioners and the School Board during the past few years. These officials are responsible for policy making, day to day operations of the County and School Board, and the protection of public property and money. There is a clique of good old boys consisting of six school board members and five commissioners. To further cement things, there are two sets of husbands and wives. The husbands have never voted against the wives. This group (clique) believes they are in control of both the County Commissioners and the School Board. There is no open government anymore. Major decisions are made out of the view of the public and not in open board meetings. Conservatives have been voted down and blocked in having status reports on the McRoy fraud investigations involving several units of government in the Chocowinity area. Charges on file at the Beaufort County Court House involve Chocowinity EMS, Chocowinity Fire Department, Chocowinity Town Government, possibly Blounts Creek Fire Department and possibly others. Based on filings, the amount of money could be in the neighborhood of one million dollars. Strong requests were presented a few years ago by myself and Commissioner Deatherage for forensic audits. All requests were blocked by Commissioners Fake Frankie Waters, Rebholz, Ed Booth and Jerry Langley. These same commissioners, along with Randy Walker, are now blocking requests by Commissioners Richardson and Deatherage for information about the status of the suits and specifically how much money Beaufort County taxpayer have at risk. This behavior is contrary to the fiduciary duty of Commissioners. Who are they protecting and why? An act of vandalism by graduating seniors at the Washington High School Cafeteria that did more than an estimated $15,000 in damage was not pursued or prosecuted. There has been no report of damage other than some seniors were not allowed to walk across the stage to get their diploma. My information is that no damages were paid by anyone. Uh, well, the taxpayers paid. I received information that a separate graduation ceremony for the vandals was held. Commissioner Deatherage and I made a motion at the July Commissioners meeting for the Superintendent of the Schools to appear and report on the vandalism and what the School Board Policy is for criminal activity on School property. The motion was voted down by a 5 to 2 vote. The two Democrats, Langley and Booth, along with the three RINOs (Republicans In Name Only) Rebholz, Waters, and Walker voted against the resolution. Again, these Commissioners are elected to protect the taxpayers' money and property. They failed miserably. There are serious deficiencies in construction of the new 52 million dollar consolidated elementary school. Studies showing that consolidation into one building is the best use of the money have not been presented to anyone. Alternatives have not been examined and set out in any report. The public has not been allowed to comment. Superintendent (The Big Cheese) Matthew Cheeseman made the decision out of thin air and the Clique fell into line. The open meetings laws were violated when Chairman of the County Commissioners, Fake Frankie Waters, Superintendent Cheeseman and School Board Chairman, T. W. Allen, met in Greenville, without notice to the public or newspapers, and formed a committee to provide oversight. The members of that committee are: Waters, Cheeseman and Allen. Because I objected, as an afterthought, they are allowing School Board Members and County Commissioners to attend, along with the public. This is corruption on a grand scale. Issues surrounding the new school are: overbuilding (not enough students to fill it up without importing from adjacent attendance areas), large numbers of small children in one mega school, crosstown busing of our youngest children and the expense of busing, whether these consolidated schools provide quality education, and the benefits of neighborhood schools. None of these have been addressed because the Clique failed to act. New members of the School Board have been bullied. They have been told they cannot answer questions for the public or make statements without the permission of the entire Board. The spokesman for the Board is The Big Cheese. There are several School Board members who have only one answer to any question from the public. That answer is: I will have the Superintendent call you. We have had School Board members who believe they work for the Superintendent. Actually, the Board hires and fires the Superintendent. Within the past few months, the School Board has renewed the The Big Cheeses employment contract in closed session without public discussion, and in contradiction to the intent of the state law (that superintendent contracts now be extended if there is an impending election). There are fears that a new School Board to be elected in November of 2024 may actually function as a board and take a new look at Cheesemans contract and the construction of the 52 million dollar mistake. To that end, there is a rush by what may be lame duck members to lock the School Board into a situation that would award the contract during the election of a new school board. The setup looks like the new School Board would award the Contract but without time to carefully consider it. Politically that would let the Clique off the hook whether or not they win the election. The Clique is an example of how comfortable with power some people can get. These people want the pride of holding an elective office, collecting some money, and not doing anything, because, in their limited mind the bureaucrats know what to do. Or do they? Efficient, effective and honest government is not being delivered to the public. Break up the Clique by electing some new School Board members and Commissioners. Tandy Dunn and Hood Richardson are running on a conservative ticket. John Rebholz is a liberal Republican, a member of the Clique and is trying to get public housing sponsored by Beaufort County government. Randy Walker is the same as Rebholz. Randys wife is a liberal member of the School Board. He has never voted against her. 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. A dermatopathologist in Saginaw, Mich., has been ordered to pay $131,626 for ignoring a lawsuit for failing to pay his debts, MLive reported Aug. 5. David Stockman, MD, has failed to respond to the lawsuit that was filed against him in April 2024, according to the report. The suit claimed Dr. Stockman owns BPE Group, which owns half of Great Lakes Bay Staffing. In June 2023, Dr. Stockman opened a draft account with Wildfire Credit Union, according to the report, and began depositing checks into the account in August 2023. The checks were drawn from an account owned by Michigan Health Clinic, a corporation Stockman also owns. On Aug. 31, Dr. Stockman and his business partner deposited two checks from Michigan Health Clinic in the draft account, then transferred the same amount to a payroll account. Both of those checks were returned to the credit union on Sept. 6 for insufficient funds, leaving the draft account with a negative balance. To cover this negative balance, according to the report, Dr. Stockman redeposited the two rejected checks. The redeposited checks were credited to the draft account. The same thing happened a few days later, according to report, after a deposited check was returned to Wildfire for insufficient funds, leaving the account with an overdrawn balance of $131,250. There are at least six other lawsuits pending against Dr. Stockman and his entities. Here are 10 ASC companies to know: To add a company to this list, please email pnewitt@beckershealthcare.com. American Vision Partners Headquarters: Phoenix Number of ASCs: 20+ Recent milestone: In July, Jordan Graff, MD, of AVP affiliate Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center, became the first surgeon to use Susvimo, the first alternative to regular eye injections for patients with wet age-related macular degeneration, following its approval by the FDA. AmSurg Headquarters: Nashville, Tenn. Number of ASCs: 256 Recent move: In July, AmSurg acquired ownership interest in Salem, Ore.-based River Road Surgery Center. Atlas Headquarters: Phoenix Number of ASCs: 32 Recent move: In July, Atlas Healthcare Partners and Tacoma, Wash.-based MultiCare Health System partnered on a joint venture ASC network in the Pacific Northwest. Azura Vascular Care Headquarters: Malvern, Pa. Number of ASCs: 72+ Compass Surgical Partners Headquarters: Raleigh, N.C. Number of ASCs: 19 Recent move: In January, Jacksonville, Fla.-based Baptist Health partnered with Compass Surgical Partners to launch a network of ASCs that will be branded as Horizon Surgery Center. HCA Surgery Ventures Headquarters: Nashville Number of ASCs: 123 Recent move: In July, Surgery Ventures and 20 physician partners opened a five-operating-room ASC in Kansas City, Mo. Regent Surgical Health Headquarters: Franklin, Tenn. Number of ASCs: 26+ Recent move: In May, Troy, Mich.-based Summit Surgery Center partnered with Regent Surgical to bolster access to orthopedic care. SCA Health Headquarters: Deerfield, Ill. Number of ASCs: 320 Recent move: Greenbrae, Calif.-based MarinHealth Medical Center and San Francisco-based UCSF Health partnered to purchase equity stakes in San Rafael, Calif.-based Marin Specialty Surgery Center from ASC management company SCA Health. Surgery Partners Headquarters: Brentwood, Tenn. Number of ASCs: 192 surgical facilities Recent move: This year, Surgery Partners partnered with Fort Wayne, Ind.-based Parkview Health to develop ASC joint ventures across the state. The company also acquired Kansas Spine & Specialty Hospital in Wichita, Kan. United Surgical Partners International Headquarters: Dallas Number of ASCs: 520 Recent move: USPI inked a partnership with the Tampa-based Florida Orthopedic Institute in the second quarter of 2024. Auburn (N.Y.) Cardiology Associates is closing its doors after nearly four decades following the retirement of owner and head physician Rama Godishala, MD, according to an Aug. 5 report from The Citizen. The practice will permanently close its doors Sept. 30, and until then is only seeing patients for pre-surgery and follow-up appointments. The closure will limit cardiac care options in Auburn, with patients having to travel to Geneva, Ithaca or Syracuse, N.Y., for the closest cardiology practices. The 11,507-square-foot property is on the market for $1.9 million. Change Healthcare has mailed the first of what are likely to be millions of data breach notifications following a February ransomware attack. The UnitedHealth Group claims processing subsidiary sent the letters to 250 individuals in Texas, according to an Aug. 5 posting by the Texas Office of the Attorney General. "Change Healthcare has begun mailing written notices to individuals affected by the cybersecurity incident and follows the process we announced in June," a company spokesperson emailed Becker's. "Change Healthcare is committed to notifying potentially impacted individuals as quickly as possible, on a rolling basis, given the volume and complexity of the data involved." Letters dated Aug. 5 have started arriving in Minnesota as well, the Star Tribune reported Aug. 14. "We are sorry to tell you about a privacy event," read a letter viewed by the Minneapolis newspaper. "We work with many doctors, health insurance plans, and other health companies to help provide health services or benefits. This event may have involved your data." The cyberattack on Change, which handles an estimated 1 in 3 healthcare transactions in the U.S., disrupted claims and payment processing for providers across the country. In testimony before Congress, UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty estimated that the data of about a third of Americans was breached in the hack. "The data review is in its final stages, but we have analyzed a sufficient amount of data to start notifying," the spokesperson told Becker's. A ransomware group claimed that it stole 10 gigabytes of data from a Maine hospital, databreaches.net reported. Cybercriminal gang RansomHub posted on its dark web data leak site July 25 that it hacked Millinocket Regional Hospital, according to the Aug. 5 report. The listing has since been removed. Millinocket Regional Hospital hasn't posted about any data breaches on its website or reported any to HHS. Becker's reached out to the hospital for comment. "Was there really a breach?" databreaches.net asked. "Did the hospital pay a ransom demand or is there some other explanation for the listing disappearing?" RansomHub has been involved in some large healthcare cyberattacks of late, including hacks of Change Healthcare and the Florida Department of Health. Conifer Health Solutions, Tenet Healthcare's revenue cycle management arm, has lined up a 10-year contract to provide services to five Alabama hospitals the health system plans to sell to Orlando (Fla.) Health. The proposed $910 million deal, projected to close in the fall, would see Tenet give up its 70% majority interest in the hospitals. The transaction marks the fifth new or expanded revenue cycle partnership for Conifer in 2024. Five things to know: 1. This year, Conifer has announced new revenue cycle partnerships with Roseville, Calif.-based Adventist Health, Winston-Salem, N.C.-based Novant Health and Orange, Calif.-based UCI Health. The company also expanded a deal with Lebanon, N.H.-based Dartmouth Health. 2. Tenet combined Conifer and its hospital operations into a single operating segment earlier this year "to reflect recent updates to the organizational and management structure of Conifer and hospital operations," William McDowell, vice president of investor relations at Tenet, said during the company's first-quarter financial earnings call. 3. Conifer provides RCM and value-based care services to 660 clients across the U.S., managing $25 billion in net patient revenue a year and supporting care management for 5.9 million people. 4. Tenet expects Conifer to continue to support and grow relationships with existing clients while also generating new business. 5. "The need for efficient, effective healthcare services like those from Conifer are strong in the marketplace" and helps Tenet thrive "in any variety of political and regulatory environments," Tenet CEO Saum Sutaria, MD, said July 24 during the company's second-quarter earnings call. Guy Medaglia, president and CEO of Saint Anthony Hospital in Chicago, will retire Jan. 10. Mr. Medaglia joined the hospital in 2007 as interim president, according to an Aug. 5 news release from Saint Anthony. He led the hospital's separation from St. Louis-based Ascension and transitioned it into an independent community hospital. Successes during Mr. Medaglia's tenure include leading the hospital to financial stability after operating in a deficit and expanding services through clinic openings, the release said. Mr. Medaglia challenged the state of Illinois' Medicaid reimbursement process in 2020 and "will continue to work with the board and the attorneys to see the federal lawsuit to its conclusion," the release said. He will continue as president and CEO of Chicago Southwest Development Corp. San Francisco-based Dignity Health has appointed two hospital presidents in its Central Coast market. Sue Andersen will lead Dignity Health - French Hospital Medical Center in San Luis Obispo, Calif., and Patrick Caster will oversee Dignity Health - St. John's Regional Medical Center in Oxnard, Calif., and Dignity Health - St. John's Hospital Camarillo (Calif.), according to a news release shared with Becker's. Ms. Andersen has served as French Hospital's interim president since June 1. Mr. Caster, who also previously served as president of French Hospital, has been serving as interim president of St. Johns Hospitals since June 1. Additionally, Ms. Andersen has continued in her role as president for Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria, Calif., and Arroyo Grande (Calif.) Community Hospital. While Ms. Andersen and Mr. Caster are stepping into their expanded leadership roles, Dignity Health is also seeking a president for the Central Coast market. The market covers seven hospitals, including Dominican Hospital Santa Cruz (Calif.), French Hospital, Marian Regional, Santa Maria-based Pacific Central Coast Health Centers, Redwood City, Calif.-based Sequoia Hospital, St. John's Hospital Camarillo, and St. John's Regional Medical Center. Dignity Health is part of Chicago-based CommonSpirit Health. Josh Gill has been named COO of Lee's Summit (Mo.) Medical Center, part of HCA Midwest Health. Mr. Gill has been vice president of operations at HCA Healthcare's Dulles, Va.-based StoneSprings Hospital Center since 2022, according to an Aug. 5 news release shared with Becker's. In that role, he led significant construction projects and helped achieve 35% growth in surgical services, the release said. HCA Midwest Health is Kansas City, Mo.'s largest healthcare provider with seven hospitals and dozens of other facilities, the release said. A glimpse into cultural and creative products rolled out by Chinese museums People's Daily Online) 13:19, August 06, 2024 Broccoli, crab sticks, meatballsvisitors at the Gansu Provincial Museum in Lanzhou, northwest China's Gansu Province, carefully select various "ingredients" and hand them over to staff members to be "cooked". Through this interactive performance, customers receive numbered tickets, choose their preferred level of spiciness, and finally take their "malatang", a dish where ingredients are selected and cooked in a spicy broth, home. Photo shows cultural and creative products inspired by malatang, a local street dish featuring a mix of fresh vegetables and meat boiled in a hot, spicy broth, at Gansu Provincial Museum in Lanzhou, northwest China's Gansu Province. (Photo from the cultural and creative product design team of Gansu Provincial Museum on Chinese lifestyle-sharing platform Xiaohongshu) These visitors aren't picking out real food for a real order of malatang though, they are choosing plush toys in a new and engaging experience being offered by the museum. This is one of the many examples of cultural and creative products being introduced by museums across China. Visiting museums has become a popular activity among young people in China. In response, museums are putting out more creative products to vividly showcase history and culture to visitors. Photo shows an ancient bronze horse statue at the Gansu Provincial Museum in Lanzhou, northwest China's Gansu Province. (Photo from Gansu Provincial Museum on Weibo) Museums have taken different approaches in their production of cultural and creative products, with some focusing on cute, or "so ugly it's cute", products. The Gansu Provincial Museum has been a leader in that regard, with its cute malatang plushies, and its "so ugly it's cute" horse plushie. Based on the museum's "Bronze Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow" statue, which was recovered from an Eastern Han Dynasty tomb, the museum has produced a green horse plushie. Netizens have claimed it's "too ugly not to buy" and it has quickly become a favorite in the museum shop. Photo shows toys inspired by an ancient bronze horse statue at the Gansu Provincial Museum in Lanzhou, northwest China's Gansu Province. (Photo from the official page of Gansu Provincial Museum) Other museums have focused on combining traditional culture with modern ideas. The Palace Museum, located in Beijing, has taken an image of the Emperor Yongzheng and made slight changes. In the image, Yongzheng is winking and also making a peace sign with his right hand, a familiar pose for many youth taking pictures today. In this endeavor, museums are embracing young people with a welcoming attitude and inclusivity, while young people are emerging as a significant driving force in the preservation and innovative development of culture. The left part of the combo photo shows a toy inspired by a ceramic beast figure and the right part of the combo photo shows cultural and creative products inspired by the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. They are rolled out by Xi'an Museum in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (Photo from Xi'an Museum on Weibo) Photo shows a cultural and creative product depicting a lady of the Tang Dynasty (618-907). It is launched by Shaanxi History Museum in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (Photo from the flagship store of Shaanxi History Museum on Weibo) (Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun) Four-day workweeks are starting to gain traction among nursing leaders. But physicians have been hesitant to embrace flexible schedules for several reasons, MDLinx reported Aug. 5. Physician burnout has been high the last few years, costing the U.S. healthcare system approximately $4.6 billion annually due to employee turnover, productivity loss and decreased patient safety and satisfaction, experts told the publication. The four-day workweek could address some of these issues, however, physicians have experienced a "flexibility stigma" that has stopped many from supporting that approach, the report said. Physicians may worry that a flexible schedule could negatively affect their reputation, grant funding, hospital workflow or professional relationships. To overcome this, hospitals and leadership could give physicians more days off without cutting pay, showcase the benefits for physicians, patients and healthcare organizations and leverage technology to help fill the gap. "By reducing the number of workdays, companies can save on overhead costs such as electricity, heating, and office supplies," Francisco Torres, MD, the health and wellness director at Florida Spine Institute in Clearwater, said in a LinkedIn post. "Additionally, employees who work fewer hours tend to be more productive, leading to increased profits for the company. The reduced stress and improved work-life balance can also lead to lower healthcare costs and decreased absenteeism." Providing flexible physician scheduling could help systems stay competitive and have more productive staff. Bloomberg Philanthropies is donating $600 million to the endowments of the nation's four historically Black medical schools. The funding will bolster the endowments of Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science in Los Angeles, Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C., Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tenn., and Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta. Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science will receive $75 million and the other three schools will each receive $175 million. The funding, based on current class size and anticipated growth, will more than double three of the schools' endowments. Additionally, a $5 million grant will be given to support the creation of the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, a new HBCU medical school in New Orleans. The school is a partnership between Ochsner Health and Xavier University of Louisiana. "Addressing health disparities and underrepresentation in the medical field are critical challenges, and Bloomberg Philanthropies is dedicated to making a difference," Michael Bloomberg, founder of Bloomberg Philanthropies and Bloomberg LP, said in an Aug. 6 news release announcing the gift. "By building on our previous support, this gift will empower new generations of Black doctors to create a healthier and more equitable future for our country." The gift from Bloomberg Philanthropies, which represents the largest-ever gift to the four HBCUs and is part of its Greenwood Initiative, comes at a time when research backs the need to support training the next generation of Black physicians. Findings from a study published in April in the Journal of the American Medical Association suggested that greater representation of Black primary care physicians in the PCP workforce is associated with better survival-related outcomes for Black individuals. At the same time, data from the AAMC shows 5.7% of all practicing doctors are Black. Bloomberg Philanthropies also gave $100 million to the four historically Black medical schools in 2020. Michael Laird, MD, orthopedic surgeon at San Luis Obispo, Calif.-based Central Coast Orthopedic Medical Group, is facing a lawsuit for allegedly replacing a knee with hardware that he knew was too big, according to an Aug. 5 report from The Tribune. According to the lawsuit, Dr. Laird operated on Barbara Ryan on May 31, 2019, replacing her knee. Following the procedure, Ms. Ryan was experienced more pain than before the procedure. Her pain continued to worsen for four years before she sought a second opinion and discovered that her replacement was too large for her knee. The lawsuit alleges that over the four years, Dr. Laird repeatedly took X-rays of the knee and told Ms. Ryan that her pain was due to slow healing or an allergy to the metal. The lawsuit alleges that Dr. Laird, Central Coast Orthopedic Medical Group and French Hospital were aware the prosthetic was the wrong size and inserted it anyways, and then ignored the issues that arose from the incorrectly performed procedure. Dr. Laird and Central Coast Orthopedic Medical Group did not respond to The Tribune's request for comment on the allegations. Ms. Ryan is suing Dr. Laird alleging medical negligence, battery, fraud and breach of fiduciary duty in the lawsuit. On Sept. 25, 2023, she sought care from a specialist who drained fluid from her knee, sent her to physical therapy for two months and ultimately decided to perform an additional operation. After the surgery was complete, the surgeon told Ms. Ryan that loose hardware was a major contributor to her pain. After the second surgery, Ms. Ryan "immediately felt different," and her chronic pain was gone and she was able to successfully walk without a cane or walker and participate in physical therapy, according to the report. Central Coast Orthopedic Medical Group has not responded to Becker's request for comment. James Nicholson has plans to expand his wine retail and supply business overseas Wine merchant James Nicholson says post-Brexit rules give NI a competitive advantage, as he announced expansion following a record award win. The Crossgar-based businessman has, for the 30th time, been named the Best Wine Retailer in NI by the International Wine Challenge Awards. Staff at JN Wine celebrate its latest award win Mr Nicholson said the prize was a tremendous honour and paid tribute to the incredible dedication and hard work of our staff over many years. Thanks to them, our customers know of our commitment to providing the very highest class of service, as well as the finest quality in world wines, he added. Mr Nicholson has announced plans to grow his overseas business, to add to his London outlet. The retail offering in the Republic will complement our already successful wholesale and mail order business there, mirroring our Crossgar operation south of the border. Our outlet in wine-loving Portugal will also bring us even closer to the heart of some of the best wine-growing regions anywhere in the world. New post-Brexit rules now mean we are also enjoying new opportunities and a competitive advantage. A west Belfast foodbank has received a donation of 12,000 from online retail giant Amazon. The charity provides a number of services, including sending emergency food parcels to those in need. As part of its pro-bono logistics programme, Amazon Local has delivered more than 60,000 food parcels in Belfast. And 20 members of Amazons Belfast team volunteered at a festival run by Foodstock. Paul Doherty, Foodstock founder and Belfast City councillor, thanked Amazon for this donation and for their continued support in delivering essential items. With one in five children living in poverty and one in 10 households struggling to afford basic items in Northern Ireland, were seeing increased numbers of people needing our services. I would encourage anyone in need of support to get in touch. Jim Press, senior delivery station manager at the Amazon delivery station in Belfast, said: We are proud to make this donation to Foodstock and to continue building our relationship with its team. Amazon UK made pre-tax profits in 2022 of over 220m. Troubled shipyard Harland & Wolff has lost out on a contract worth a potential 120m with the Falkland Islands Government Troubled shipyard Harland & Wolff has lost out on a contract worth a potential 120m with the Falkland Islands Government. It had previously been identified as preferred bidder for the locations port replacement project. But in a statement on the Harland & Wolff website on Tuesday, the company said: The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) have decided to cease further contractual negotiations with Harland & Wolff regarding the port replacement project. Harland & Wolff were initially identified as the preferred bidder for the marine-side tender in early 2024. "However, despite productive discussions, FIG and Harland and Wolff were unable to reach a mutually acceptable commercial position. "FIG acknowledges the effort and commitment demonstrated by Harland and Wolff throughout this process. The loss is another setback for the under-fire business, which last week announced it was withdrawing from a ferry service on the Isles of Scilly. At the same point, it also confirmed the complete departure from the business of former chief executive John Wood. In an announcement in March 2024, Harland & Wolff said it had been selected as preferred bidder on the Falkland scheme. It said the contract could generate revenues of 100m to 120m, with work due to start later this year. The project was to involve building, transporting and installing four floating pontoons of around 90m each in the Falkland Islands. The work was to be spread across the companys facilities. After talks with its main lender, Riverstone Credit Partners in New York, the company announced on Thursday that it had secured $25m in additional lending, bringing its total debt to $140m. On the same day, it announced it had ceased operations on Scilly Ferries to focus on core business functions. The company had been under increasing financial pressure since the UK Government confirmed it would not be giving the company a 200m export loan guarantee. Harland & Wolff is part of a consortium on a 1.6bn contract to build naval fleet solid support ships for the Royal Navy. The firm has employed the financial services company Rothschild & Co to assess strategic options for the group. It suspended trading in its shares on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) on July 1 as it was unable to file audited accounts. A spokesman for the company confirmed on Tuesday that there was still no update on the filing of accounts. As it announced Mr Woods departure on Thursday, the company confirmed Russell Downs and Alan Fort are due to become board members. Malcolm Groat, Harland & Wolff chairman, said: We are grateful to our lenders in continuing their funding commitment to support Harland & Wolff Groups ongoing stabilisation and long-term strategy objectives. We also look forward to working with the very experienced team from Rothschild & Co to help us achieve that objective. As well as its famous Belfast shipyard, Harland & Wolff also has shipyards in Methil and Arnish in Scotland, and in Appledore, Devon. Around 1,500 people are employed across the four sites. Six companies in Northern Ireland now have turnover of over 1bn, with Moy Park reporting the biggest sales of all, its been revealed. The Ulster Business Top 100 Northern Ireland Companies 2024, in association with KPMG, charts the success stories of the Northern Ireland economy in order of turnover. And it shows that Northern Irelands biggest firms have reached all-time record sales levels, with six now reporting 1bn-plus in turnover. Across the Top 100, turnover has reached a record level of 35.2bn, up 17% on the previous accounting period. However, average pre-tax profits fell by 8% to 1.32bn. The Ulster Business Top 100 listing includes the results of Northern Ireland-domiciled companies, either with a registered office here or when a significant portion of the companys business is driven and transacted through the region. Moy Park Holdings (Europe) returned to the top spot for 2024 with turnover of 1.88bn and pre-tax profits of 18.7m. Some of the newcomers to this years list include Kingsbridge Healthcare Group, coming in at 96, which recently sold a majority stake in the business for a reported 300m. Wholesale and distribution grocery business D&W Carlisle has joined the list at number 100, while Charles Brand Group has shot into the number 74 position. Johnny Hanna, partner-in-charge of KPMG in Northern Ireland, said: Looking at the Top 100 Northern Ireland Companies listing suggests the local economy has, for a large part, enjoyed a buoyant year. Of note, there are now six companies in Northern Ireland with turnover of over 1bn two more than last year and a significant improvement on 10 years ago when we counted just one. As KPMG enters its 50th year of operation in Northern Ireland, we are very much in growth mode and see huge potential, not just for our business but for our clients too. Because of a world-class education system, a dynamic broad-based economy and a standard of living rated one of the best in the world, Northern Ireland now has a diverse, highly skilled workforce from around the world to power our ambitions. John Mulgrew, editor of Ulster Business, a sister publication of the Belfast Telegraph, said: The Ulster Business Top 100 Northern Ireland Companies 2024, in association with KPMG, once again shows the prowess and ability of many of our biggest and best firms to grow, expand and reach new market. This year, sales are at record levels, while pre-tax profits have softened somewhat perhaps pointing to the impact of rising costs, higher borrowing and skills shortages for some companies, hitting that bottom line. We have newcomers to this years list, and stalwarts who remain at the top, with many others rising. And we continue to see an ever greater range of businesses making the list. Long may that continue. Moy Park Holdings (Europe) published its most recent accounts for 2022 at the end of September last year. Turnover of 1.88bn had climbed 19% from 1.58bn in 2021, though pre-tax profits dropped 37% from 29.7m to 18.7m. The Craigavon-based business has 9,619 employees across facilities in Northern Ireland, the Netherlands and France. Woman loses legal battle in Belfast over bringing family to UK from war-torn Sudan The village where the family lives is under the control of rebel forces and they are currently using a bus as their home, suffering from serious food shortages and without access to healthcare The conflict in Sudan has led to displacement and hunger on a never-before-seen scale. Photo: Getty Images Alan Erwin Tue 6 Aug 2024 at 16:55 A woman from war-torn Sudan has lost a legal battle aimed at securing a safe route for her family to join her in the United Kingdom. Belfast race-hate violence: A woman told me shed been assaulted after protesters learned she was daughter of refugee The far-right Belfast protests were some of the worst Ive ever seen Lara Thompson Eoin McCaul Tue 6 Aug 2024 at 07:52 A far-right protester punched a woman with a pram because she was the daughter of a refugee, an eyewitness to Saturdays disorder has claimed. Health minister offers full support for NHS workers Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones pictured providing an update in relation to disorder in Belfast at Police HQ Knock Road Belfast. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press. Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Stormonts health minister has pledged his full support for NHS staff amid fears up to 10 nurses from overseas could leave Northern Ireland following riots sparked by anti-immigration protests. Mike Nesbitt said we are very fortunate to have such a dedicated health and social care workforce as he condemned the reprehensible behaviour that has taken place over the last few days. The comments come after one healthcare worker revealed she plans to return home to India when her contract ends because she is scared to leave the house even to go to work. The anonymous medic told BBC News NI that other families are worried for their safety. "Im not going out; Im working, and we are all frightened," she said. "We cant go out shopping. It's scary to go out with children. Its really terrifying. "When my contract is finished, I will go back to my country. I will go back to India. Its not normal here, and we dont have support, just some friends and colleagues, but thats it. The nurse, who has been working here for almost three years, said she does not understand why the violence is happening. "They truly are the backbone of the NHS, but I am both saddened and appalled that we have staff who are feeling vulnerable and unwelcome at this time, Mr Nesbitt said. Let me be very clear, you are welcome and deeply valued. We recognise and appreciate the role you play in our communities and are grateful for the vital contribution you make to patients and society every day. The UUP MLA said the health, safety and wellbeing of health and social care staff is always a priority as he confirmed staff are continuing to receive support as needed. We must all stand together to reject the reprehensible behaviour and violence we have seen in recent days there can be no justification for racism or xenophobia. I am very proud of the diversity within our health service and want all staff to know that you have my full support. Belfast Trust director John Maxwell has condemned all violence and threats towards staff. We recruit many international staff over 1,000 nurses from international recruitment and we desperately need to keep them," he said. "We will support them as best we can and we would encourage staff to report issues to the PSNI but also to ourselves at the trust. NI Secretary Hilary Benn said he expressed his support for the hard work the PSNI at a Cabinet meeting in Downing Street on Tuesday morning. He also commended the dedicated people who are helping to rebuild communities in the wake of the damage caused. I remain in contact with the First Minister and deputy First Minister, Justice Minister and the Chief Constable, and will continue to offer them my full support. The violence which has sowed fear in local communities and damaged businesses is totally unacceptable. Mr Benn said the people of Northern Ireland deserve better and accused those behind the senseless violence of damaging the very communities they falsely claim to represent. I would like to thank the PSNI for their continuing efforts to keep our communities safe, he added. "My thoughts are with all those who have suffered, including the businesses that have been attacked, and the member of the public who was the victim of a serious assault during last nights disorder. I urge those involved to stop this senseless violence and intimidation. It comes after a senior PSNI officer said she is in no doubt there is a paramilitary element to the violence that has rocked Belfast in recent days. Police came under sustained attack as trouble broke out again on Monday night. A 15-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour, while in a separate incident a man in his 50s was taken to hospital after he was seriously assaulted in the Donegall Road and Oban Street areas. At one stage rioters tried to set a Sandy Row supermarket - already burnt during disorder on Saturday night - ablaze for a second time. Belfast riots: Allison Morris on three nights of disorder h3> Speaking this afternoon, Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said: The scenes we have witnessed over the past few days have been horrendous. There has been violence, assaults, damage to property, arson and racist slurs used unashamedly on our streets. This is not who we are as a society and the majority of our citizens are rightly appalled by this behaviour. She added: I would also highlight the work that's ongoing to support those vulnerable and minority communities that have been particularly affected by these terrible events and disorder. We are working with those groups on a daily basis at pace to provide them with the support and reassurance and crime prevention advice that they need at this very difficult time. A senior PSNI officer said she is in no doubt there is a paramilitary element to the disorder that has rocked Belfast in recent days Asked about reports of paramilitaries being involved in the disorder, Ms Jones said: I have no doubt there is a paramilitary element to this, but I am not in a position to say that this is the main organiser or orchestrator of these events. However, we do keep an open mind to this and this will be part of our investigative strategy. Ms Jones said what happened on Monday night was different from Saturday, when trouble flared in south Belfast after an anti-immigration protest march. On Saturday, we saw mainly older, adult people who became involved in disorder, she said. Last night it was clear to us that there was a younger element, teenagers mainly, who were involved in the disorder, but there was an element of organisation and orchestration from what appeared to be older adults present at the scene. On Monday First Minister Michelle ONeill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly spoke with PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher. They said that, while people are entitled to take part in peaceful protest, there is no justification for racism, violence or intimidation. There must be a zero tolerance approach to racism and wanton destruction. Nobody should have to live in fear or threat of violence, the Stormont leaders added in a joint statement. Asked about those on social media organising rioting and spreading misinformation, Melanie Jones said: We have a widespread investigation ongoing, both to deal with what we've seen happen but also to identify who is responsible for orchestrating, organising and stirring up violence and disorder in the background. That is an active line of investigation. We continue to work with colleagues across the UK to make sure that we are picking up on anything that is relevant here from their investigations and their intelligence gathering. The PSNI said at one stage on Monday night, petrol was poured over a police Land Rover and set alight. Police deployed two attenuating energy projectiles (AEPs), with one rioter struck on the hand. Read more Girl shouts racial slurs in Belfast street while holding hands with adult An assault on a man in his 50s is also being investigated as a racially-motivated hate crime. Witnesses reported seeing attackers stamp on his head, while members of the public tried to shield him. Ms Jones said the victim was "brutally attacked by a mob". "Witnesses reported seeing his attackers stamp on his head as other, decent members of the public attempted to shield him from further attack," she said. "Police officers managed to get this man to safety and secure his medical treatment. He remains being treated in hospital at this time with serious injuries." The Sandy Row supermarket that rioters attempted to re-torch after it was gutted at the weekend, called Sham Supermarket, had been burnt out on two other occasions in the past. Bashir, the supermarkets manager, addressed an emergency meeting of Belfast City Council on Monday evening, before the disorder broke out. He hit out at the police response, stating that the Muslim community in Belfast now lives in fear, asking the PSNI: Where are you when we need you? Asked about this today, Ms Jones said we always wish we could have done more, adding that it was a really dynamic and difficult scenario that unfolded on Saturday and again on Monday night. The PSNI officer also defended the use of baton rounds, two of which were fired during Mondays disorder, striking one rioter on the hand. She said this was the right tactic to use given the situation. Ms Jones added that water cannon will be used in the future if it is the right tactic to deploy in the circumstances. Earlier, speaking to the BBC, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said he condemned the disorder in the strongest possible terms. Mr Lyons was asked whether he thought immigration levels in Northern Ireland were influencing the events of recent days. Certainly there are additional pressures on public services in some parts of Northern Ireland. That doesn't mean there is any justification for violence, he replied. "If you have concerns and want to express those concerns there are legitimate peaceful and democratic ways in which you can do that. "What I don't think we should do is downplay how some people are feeling about this issue. When we try to dismiss the legitimate concerns of people it adds to the frustration many people feel. The Assembly has been recalled to sit on Thursday to discuss the disorder. Watch: Cars burn during night of disorder in south Belfast The deputy First Minister has been been challenged by Northern Irelands first black mayor after the DUP MLA said she had told the Secretary of State many people have real concerns about immigration. The funeral of Kevin Davidson has taken place in Belfast. [Picture: Presseye] Mourners have gathered at the funeral of murder victim Kevin Davidson. A service for the 34-year-old took place at St Patricks Church in Belfast with family and friends seen gathered and leading the mans coffin into the church. Following the mass, there was a committal for the mans body at Roselawn Crematorium. A funeral notice said Mr Davidson was the beloved son of Marie and loving brother of Catherine. "Kevin will be sorely missed, loved and remembered always by his heartbroken mum, sister and entire family circle, it added. Mr Davidsons body was discovered on July 20 at a flat in Donegall Avenue, where he had been living. Two people Jade Mary Anna Harrison (35), of Donegall Avenue, and Colam Barry McClenaghan (32), of no fixed address were since charged with his murder and appeared in court last Wednesday. Both deny the charge, and told police they believed he had left the property after walking in on them having intercourse. Last week police appealed for information about a white car on the Lisburn Road seen in the early hours of Tuesday July 9. ANTIFASCIST activists have been maintaining a vigil at Belfasts Islamic Centre, which has been the focus of anti-immigration protesters this week. The group claimed there had been multiple attempts by fascists to attack the building. "Our friends at the Belfast Islamic centre have reiterated that they do not want any confrontation, Belfast Communities Against Fascism posted on Facebook. "It is imperative that we show our solidarity and remain steadfast in facing the fascist threat that these ethnic-minorities face. Meanwhile, three separate demonstrations are being organised to express solidarity with immigrants. An anti-racism rally is set to take place in Belfast this Saturday in response to days of rioting. Plans for a counter protest on Friday afternoon have appeared on social media, apparently coinciding with an anti immigration protest at City Hall. Before that, trade unionists prepare to gather at Stormont in a separate demonstration to express solidarity with victims of hate crime. The Belfast Welcomes Diversity Demo is urging people of all backgrounds to take part in the vibrant and peaceful demonstration which will assemble at Writers Square at 12pm on Saturday. Participants will then march to City Hall where rival protests took place last weekend. Several businesses were attacked and some were set on fire after an anti-immigrant demonstration moved from the area to surrounding streets. A number of police officers and members of the public were injured. United Against Racism, the group which has organised this weekends anti-racism rally, says Belfast is an inclusive and diverse city that will not be bowed by racist hate. On Saturday, we are urging all who oppose division to join the march and show that those who peddle racism do not speak for the majority, a spokesperson said. "We want all trade unions, community groups, and all progressive political parties and activist groups to be there. Violent racists must not be allowed to control our streets or control the narrative around the problems facing our communities. "When progressives campaign for social change, for investment in public services, or for the rights we all deserve, the far-right are never to be seen. Disorder broke out again on Monday night in the Donegall Road and Sandy Row areas where police came under sustained attack for several hours. On Tuesday a senior officer said is in "no doubt" there is a "paramilitary element" involved in orchestrating tensions. PSNI Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones also described how officers managed to get a man in his 50s to safety after he was "brutally attacked by a mob". According to witnesses, attackers stamped on the victims head as members of the public attempted to shield him he remains in hospital with serious injuries. United Against Racism campaigners insist unity is the key to ending the violence. In every corner of this island we need to build an anti-racism movement that challenges hate, but also provides solutions to the issues we must overcome together, a spokesperson said. "Unity is the key to overcoming hate, and unity is the key to uplifting all who have been let down by those in power. We must inspire confidence in all who have been intimidated and are fearful in their own homes. Belfast welcomes diversity and we are calling everyone out to showcase it. Meanwhile trade unionists are set to descend on Parliament Buildings ahead of an emergency sitting of the NI Assembly. The Trade Union and Community Rally Against Racism will take place on the front steps of Stormont at 11am on Thursday. It is intended to show show leadership amid tensions. We stand with all victims of hate crime, we support our public servants who defend the vulnerable and we have zero tolerance for divisive misinformation or attempts to spark violence, organisers said. The NI committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) has condemned far-right rhetoric and racist threats. It has invited all those across our community who share our values of equality, diversity and solidarity to join the gathering. "We are working with our friends at NICVA to ensure a large and representative turnout, it said. The event will see workers and leaders of trade unions speak out for these values, and we request that affiliates bring as many members as possible and be visible with their trade union banners and trade union flags. Meanwhile, adverts for a Unity Over Division protest at Belfast City Hall on Friday afternoon have appeared on social media urging people to take a stand against racism, fascism and Islamophobia by attending this peaceful counter protest. Plans for another anti immigration protest at the same time have appeared on social media. Irish far-right group hosted in Belfast by loyalist Sean Grahams Bookmakers attack suspect UDA man was arrested in connection with 1992 gun attack that left five Catholics dead Firefighters battle a blaze at an Asian shop as serious rioting erupted on Saturday night through into Sunday morning in the Donegall Road/Sandy Row area of south Belfast. Pic: Photopress Allison Morris Tue 6 Aug 2024 at 08:52 Irish far-right activists who travelled to Belfast at the weekend for an anti-immigration protest were hosted by a loyalist who was arrested in connection with the murders of five Catholics in a sectarian attack. Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has said rioters defile the flag they wrap themselves in (Mike Egerton/PA) People involved in violent riots on the streets in the past week defile the flag that they wrap themselves in, the Archbishop of Canterbury has said. Justin Welby condemned the criminal violence seen in parts of the UK, which has involved attacks on mosques, assaults on police officers, and looting of shops. The Church of England leader spoke of manipulation through social media and by people abroad, which he said must be strongly resisted. Tommy Robinson has faced criticism for stoking tensions online from abroad (Maja Smiejkowska/PA) He did not mention names but several other critics have condemned former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, for stoking tensions online while out of the country. Mr Welby said people are being used in a ridiculous, appalling and immoral way as he spoke of the misinformation which had spread around the identity of the suspect in the Southport stabbings on July 29. Asked what he would say to rioters, Mr Welby told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: This (violence) is not the United Kingdom. Its not British. Its not English. They defile the flag that they wrap themselves in. Calling on people to air concerns peacefully, he said: Violence and swearing in the face of police from a distance of two foot is never going to convince anyone. He said: Protest is good and is right and is fundamental to all our freedoms. But peaceful protest will have 1,000, 10,000 times the impact that this violence is having. This violence turns people away from your cause, whatever youre protesting about, and it is just criminal violence. Peaceful protest, peaceful statements will convince, will change peoples mind, will at the very least cause them to listen. Asked what he thinks is behind the incidents of the past week, he said there are a lot of reasons, noting significant deprivation in some areas. But he added that this does not in any way justify this violence. He said: We do need to re-look at how the benefits of our economy are shared right across everyone in need, and everyone in the country needs to gain from being one of the seven richest countries on Earth. Im not saying that being marginalised, which a lot of people are in historic areas of high unemployment, justifies violence quite the reverse. It does justify peaceful protest, and that will make people listen. Amid scenes of community clean-ups following some of the disorder, Mr Welby praised the extraordinary cohesion and caring for neighbours that is going on all around the country in the wake of these riots, adding that he believes trouble will die down very shortly. He said the Government has been responding extremely well through policing and clamping down through law and order, but called for medium and long-term reflection in the aftermath. He added that some of our politicians will always take an opportunity to cause trouble, but thats very, very few and far between. Workers carry a body returned by Israel to a cemetery in Khan Younis, Gaza Strip (Abdel Kareem Hana/AP) Palestinian officials say eight Palestinians were killed, including four teenagers, and another seven were wounded by Israeli fire during military raids in the occupied West Bank. The Palestinian Health Ministry said on Tuesday that four people, including two 19-year-olds and a 14-year-old, were killed in an overnight raid in the village of Aqaaba in the northern West Bank. It said another four people, including an 18-year-old, were killed in an Israeli strike on a vehicle in Jenin a frequent flashpoint where the Islamic Jihad militant group said its fighters were battling the army. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. A Palestinian woman watches an operation by the Israeli military in Tulkarem refugee camp in the West Bank (Majdi Mohammed/AP) It comes as the only corridor for humanitarian aid to enter southern Gaza has been shut down, apparently because of fighting in the area. The Israeli military said that the Kerem Shalom crossing was open, but the humanitarian route leading from the crossing into the city of Rafah was closed on Tuesday until further notice. Hamas armed wing said it attacked an Israeli tank in the area. It is not possible to confirm battlefield reports in Gaza. Lebanons Health Ministry also said an Israeli airstrike on a village in the countrys south killed four people. The ministry said Tuesdays airstrike targeted a home in the village of Maifadoun near the market town of Nabatiye. It was not immediately clear if the dead were civilians or militants. Israeli police work at the site of a drone strike in Nahariya, Israel (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP) Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned as abhorrent an Iranian ambassadors social media comment on Israel. Mr Albanese said ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi had been called in for a meeting with Australias Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade officials over his recent post on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter. Mr Sadeghi cites Hamas spiritual leader Ahmed Yassin advocating that wiping out the Zionist plague out of the holy lands of Palestine happens no later than 2027. Mr Sadeghi added: Looking forward to such a heavenly & divine promise Inshaa-Allah. The Arabic expression means if God wills. Mr Albanese told reporters: I make it clear: Theres no place for the sort of comments that were made online on social media by the Iranian ambassador. Family, friends and supporters of Ariel Bibas, who is held hostage by Hamas in the Gaza Strip, mark his fifth birthday in Tel Aviv (Mahmoud Illean/AP) Theyre abhorrent. And they are hateful, they are antisemitic and they have no place, Mr Albanese added. Asked by a reporters if the ambassador should be expelled from Australia, Mr Albanese did not directly answer. The Iranian Embassy in Australia did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday. Israel has carried out near-daily military raids across the West Bank since Hamass October 7 attack out of Gaza triggered the ongoing war there. Palestinians from the West Bank have also carried out a number of attacks on Israelis. The Health Ministry says more than 600 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank since the start of the war. Most were killed during military arrest raids and violent protests. It was the end of a week during which the world saw all that can be good about Northern Ireland. Olympic success, bringing four gold medals for Northern Ireland athletes, was surely something worth celebrating. Swimmers Daniel Wiffen and Jack McMillan, rower Hannah Scott and then, majestically on Saturday afternoon, gymnast Rhys McClenaghan all enjoyed golden moments. All four triumphs, plus the performances of all those from Northern Ireland who have made the Olympics have given everyone a sense of pride in their achievements on a world stage. It was the perfect example for young people across Northern Ireland to follow. How depressing then that come Saturday evening, the spotlight had been diverted to something much more akin to how Northern Ireland has traditionally been seen across the world. They may have been few in number, but the message sent out was much louder than their actions deserved. Those who joined in anti-immigration protests, who burnt out those who the vast majority welcome to their communities, have shamed us all. Read more Anti-immigration protest in Belfast city centre ends after BBC offices locked down Over the past number of weeks there has been an ill wind spreading across towns and cities in the UK and similarly in the Republic of Ireland. Some of the words in particular being chanted make for difficult listening, the anger being displayed is uncomfortable to watch. There is, of course, the right for anyone to protest, to have a view on the society they live in. But holding those views does not give anyone the right to violence, to threatening life and livelihoods, or to placing communities in fear. Look instead to west Belfast, where Feile was bringing out thousands for a 1980s revival night. That is the Belfast we should inspire to be, the Belfast that needs to be seen across the world. Instead, some will go away with nothing but terrible recollections after city tours for cruise ship passengers were cancelled on Saturday as protests spilled into violence. What Belfast do we want to live in? The answer should be easy. Give us the one that rejoices in sporting success, the one where people gather together for music festivals, the one where a Hindu festival at Crescent Park can go ahead in an atmosphere of togetherness and community spirit, rather than be abandoned. Belfast is so much better than the images that went around the world over the weekend. Its time we showed it. Tony Brownes family hit out at murderers legal bid The family of a man murdered by his girlfriend have told of their pain and anger after she launched an appeal against her sentence. Bennington, VT (05201) Today Partly cloudy this morning. Increasing clouds with periods of showers this afternoon. High 56F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.. Tonight Rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers overnight. Low around 40F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Cheshire residents have until Sept. 20 to register to vote in the special district meeting. The Adams Town Clerks office has also announced voters have until Sept. 20 to register to vote in the meeting. MOUNT WASHINGTON A petition is circulating among residents asking Gov. Maura Healey to stop a plan by the state to put out bids to log in 275 acres in the state forest in town. The petition, created by resident and environmental activist Eleanor Tillinghast, also asks Healey to add the land to the existing Mount Washington Forest Reserve that surrounds it. That 275 acres is part of 362 acres known as the Cattle Barn Lot, so named for the ramshackle cow shed that has long been part of the pastoral and mountain landscape at the junction of West and East streets in Mount Washington. That lot is some of 816 abutting acres donated to the state for conservation by Cornelia Van der Smissen Intemann, a Bronx school teacher, 60 years ago. It is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, which proposed the logging as a management project designed to help prevent forest fires and ease climate change effects. The proposal also wants to address dead and dying trees and those with infestations. The project also includes killing invasive species in the lot with herbicides like glyphosate. That work, which began on July 11, may still be underway. The spraying of herbicides is also raising concerns, since the area treated is at the headwaters of Karner Brook, Egremonts drinking water supply. The brook is also designated by the state "as a Critical Fisheries Habitat for rare fish species or native brook trout," the petition points out. The state's plan has been met with pushback from some town officials and residents. The Select Board wrote a letter to Healey, also asking that the land that includes the Cattle Barn Lot be placed into the forest reserve so that it cannot be logged. Board Chair Brian Tobin told The Eagle last week he has not yet heard a response. A spokesperson for Healey did not immediately respond for a request for comment. Multiple petition sheets were circulated on Thursday. Tillinghast said she is unsure how many signatures have been obtained, since the sheets have not yet been returned. So far she has heard of a positive response, she said. The petition also expresses concern about the visual impact of logging on the mountainside, which in some cases may involve using equipment on some slopes that exceed 40 percent. Tillinghast, who is a co-founder of Green Berkshires, also points to a report by Healeys own committee of foresters and scientists about forests and climate change. The committee, the petition noted, strongly agreed that forest reserves are important for the protection of carbon storage needed to guard against climate changes. A DCR spokesperson said that the project "does not involve a clear-cut of the entire acreage." "Instead, it focuses on selectively designating specific trees for harvest and addressing immediate threats to the forests health, including emerald ash borer, spongey moth, invasive plants, and failing softwood plantations, which can reduce forest carbon," they wrote in an email. "This approach is guided by the Forests as Climate Solutions Initiative, which established strict forest management guidelines on Massachusetts state lands based on the latest climate science." The spokesperson also said that the agency recognizes "the significance of this forest and its trees to the community and are dedicated to increasing transparency and clearly explaining our forest management decisions." PITTSFIELD For a brief moment on July 27, the corner of Wendell Avenue and East Housatonic Street in Pittsfield had the eyes of the world upon it. The attention was a result of Vice President Kamala Harris visit to the city, during which onlookers scrambled to get a glimpse of her motorcade before her speech at a sold-out fundraiser at the Colonial Theatre. Unfortunately for them, it instead traveled down Pomeroy Avenue onto East Street, before heading down Wendell to get to the back of the venue. I lived in that neighborhood for five years, when that little corner was a huge part of my world. There wasnt a day I didnt walk past it, either on my way to work or to do errands. I can picture vividly its cracked concrete, the bumpy asphalt sidewalk on Wendell that tripped me up regularly and its throngs of guardian trees that made me feel safe. Though its only been about a year since I stopped living there, its already been changed considerably due to roadwork. My finest memories of Wendell Avenue, however, came in autumn when the trees were lit aflame with foliage entering their spectacular twilight. The stretch of the street the vice president drove down is a peaceful one, where you can expect a comfortable, safe walk and appreciate the grace of the trees as they sway in the wind. Though her stay was brief, I hope the vice president enjoyed what the Berkshires had to offer as she peered through the window of her SUV. In the days since her visit, Ive wondered: What did her visit mean for the Berkshires? What is its lasting impact? These thoughts draw me to a quote from Deidre Torra, owner of Deidres Special Day bridal store, who talked to The Eagle prior to Harris visit. Its nice that shes coming, she said. We sometimes feel forgotten about and she put us on the map. In a way, I think Torra is correct. As The Eagles editorial preceding the event pointed out, shes the first major presidential candidate to stop in the Berkshires since Jimmy Carter did in 1976, and she did so with resounding success, raising more than $1.4 million for her presidential campaign. While much of her haul from the fundraiser can be attributed to the involvement of the likes of James Taylor, Yo-Yo Ma and former state Rep. Sherwood Guernsey, as well as its proximity to the launch of her presidential campaign (The Associated Press labeled it as her first fundraiser as the likely Democratic nominee), it proves that the Berkshires can turn out in a big way for guests of international renown and that the county is a destination that shouldnt be overlooked. Its important to note that Harris is not the only big-name political guest the Berkshires has hosted. Former first lady Michelle Obama also visited the Colonial in 2012, as did former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton when she was first lady in 1998. And our cultural institutions like Tanglewood regularly feature talent in the national and international spotlight that draw thousands from outside the county to visit. But like Torra pointed out, in a county with a dwindling and aging population often neglected by Beacon Hill, its easy to feel like this area has been forgotten about that it doesnt matter on the national stage. Harris visit suggests that the Berkshires do, in fact, matter. It proves that even in a quiet suburban neighborhood in the heart of the Berkshires, history can be made. Though I no longer live near the corner of Wendell Avenue and East Housatonic Street, Ill always look back on my time in the neighborhood with reverence and some nostalgia. Its the first place I lived long-term after college and, in some ways, feels like its where I came of age. I learned how to be an adult there, found love there and endured the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic and discovered invaluable things about myself there. Its where I became who I am. Im glad the vice president got to experience it, even if it was for a few fleeting moments. Reentry services, job training programs and rest homes could soon feel the impact of Gov. Maura Healey's budget vetoes that were left intact after a chaotic end to formal lawmaking. The House overturned some of Healey's fiscal 2025 budget vetoes during last week's formal sessions, but the Senate did not pursue any overrides of her line item reductions. Healey vetoed $317 million across 60 line items in the nearly $58 billion budget. Lew Finfer, director of Massachusetts Action for Justice, said Monday he was worried about multiple vetoes, including Healey slashing $2.5 million from the Community Empowerment and Reinvestment grant program, which he said support dozens of reentry programs serving formerly incarcerated individuals. That leaves $7.5 million for the line item, which last fiscal year received $15 million. "There are a lot of barriers people face," Finfer said, as he spoke about the need to connect people with housing, mental health and drug treatment services after they exit correctional facilities. "When their lives get derailed, it may mean they commit some new charge and they're back in prison, to the detriment of themselves and their families. That's why reentry programs are really important." Leslie Credle, executive director of the Boston nonprofit Justice 4 Housing that provides services like case management and family reunification for formerly incarcerated Bay Staters, said Healey's veto is "not good." "A lot of organizations rely on that money for reentry work, and so that means that we don't get to service as many participants as we would like to," Credle said. Healey, in budget documents, said she reduced the grant funding to "the amount projected to be necessary due to the availability of alternative trust funding that can be maximized to support similar programming." She also said the "Executive Office of Economic Development will work towards utilizing the Workforce Investment Trust Fund to offset the funding being vetoed." But Finfer and the Healey administration said the stalled economic development bill needs to be passed to tap into that fund. "Look, our economy is strong, our bond rating is excellent, we've got money in our rainy day fund. But it's also our responsibility to make sure that we're being fiscally responsible in a time where there's still some uncertainty as to economic conditions. And we would rather be in a position of budgeting accordingly now, rather than facing the specter of having to make cuts later. Better to plan than to have to make cuts later," Healey said about her overarching veto strategy last week. "We think these vetoes were vetoes that were well-managed. $317 million, it's more than last year. But again, we think we've done so in a way that is responsible and also doesn't do harm to the delivery of service." Healey also cut $10 million across two line items affecting the state's "supplement" to the Supplemental Security Income program for "aged and disabled" individuals, as well as to the Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children cash assistance program. Ronald Pawelski, president of the Massachusetts Association of Residential Care Homes, said that money was intended to boost reimbursement rates for the commonwealth's 75 rest homes, which offer a level of care that falls between assisted living facilities and skilled nursing homes. The majority of rest home residents are receiving some type of public assistance, and "a number" of them were previously homeless, he said. Pawelski said the Legislature in recent years has supported incremental funding requests, as he cited positive working relationships with the House and Senate budget chiefs. When an official from the Department of Transitional Assistance notified him about the budget vetoes last Monday, Pawelski said that it "came as a complete surprise because we were assured, based on multiple meetings, that the amount would be included." "We are concerned. We're fearful that this veto could lead to a new round of closures, and we will be working very closely with our members to monitor the impact across the industry," said Pawelski, who noted more than 100 rest homes have closed in Massachusetts since 1998. Healey cut the SSI funding by $6.3 million and the EAEDC funding by $3.7 million to the "amount projected to be necessary," she wrote. The veto documents explain for both line items, "Based on historical spending and expected demand, this level will support the continuation of current services." Finfer, of Massachusetts Action for Justice, also sounded the alarm about the governor's cuts of $750,000 to career technical institutes in vocational-technical schools, $1 million to MassHire Career Centers, and $500,000 to a summer jobs program for at-risk youth. The voc-tech veto could mean institutes that offer evening training opportunities in areas like welding, plumbing and carpentry may need to scale back on the skills they teach, Finfer said. Finfer said the MassHire cut could limit job training and services for unemployed residents, while he said the summer jobs veto would harm a program that's already dealt with "major cuts" this season. Borsa Italiana non ha responsabilita per il contenuto del sito a cui sta per accedere e non ha responsabilita per le informazioni contenute. Accedendo a questo link, Borsa Italiana non intende sollecitare acquisti o offerte in alcun paese da parte di nessuno. Sarai automaticamente diretto al link in cinque secondi. Taoiseach Simon Harris has condemned what he called a trend of threatening and dehumanising politicians, saying it should not be accepted as normal. Gardai said they are investigating a threat made on social media against Mr Harris. Advertisement Several protests have been held outside the Taoiseachs family home as well as the homes of ministers. Politicians have voiced concerns against a recent coarsening of rhetoric against public representatives, and warned that the approachable nature of Irish politics was at risk. Advertisement In a statement released on Tuesday, Mr Harris said he did not wish to comment on his or his familys security but wished to address emerging trends. The laws of the land apply to people online just as much as offline, he said. There can be no hiding place for anyone seeking to threaten, attack or harm people or to incite others to do so. Advertisement Politicians have become a regular target, and it is on the brink of being viewed as acceptable or a normal part of the job. It is not acceptable. I get up every day and go to work and work as hard as I can. So do most politicians I know from all parties, and none. Constant efforts to target us, demean us or dehumanise us should never be accepted, never be normalised, and always called out. I will never be deterred from doing my job as Taoiseach. Advertisement Men and women of An Garda Siochana do us proud every day in their work and I thank them for that. I thank the people right across this country for their kindness and decency it means the world to me and my family. Indonesian security forces have recovered the body of a New Zealand pilot who was killed in an alleged separatist attack in the restive Papua region, according to officials. Glen Malcolm Conning, a helicopter pilot for Indonesian aviation company PT Intan Angkasa Air Service, was shot dead on Monday by gunmen allegedly with the West Papua Liberation Army, the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement, shortly after landing in Alama, a remote district in the Mimika regency of Central Papua province. Advertisement The attackers released all six passengers, including two health workers and two children, said Bayu Suseno, spokesman of the Cartenz Peace Taskforce, the joint security force set up by the Indonesian government to deal with separatist groups in Papua. We suspect that the armed group that shot the pilot was from Nduga district, led by Egianus Kogoya, Mr Suseno said in a video statement. He described the group as the most dangerous and very active in disturbing the security around Timika, a town that feeds the Grasberg mine which is nearly half owned by US-based Freeport-McMoRan and is run by PT Freeport Indonesia. Advertisement This group is our main target to arrest this year, Mr Suseno said. In February 2023, Mr Kogoya, a regional commander in the Free Papua Movement, abducted Philip Mark Mehrtens, a pilot from Christchurch who was working for Indonesian aviation company Susi Air. Advertisement Mr Kogoya and his troops stormed a single-engine plane shortly after it landed on a small runway in a mountainous village. He said they would not release Mr Mehrtens unless Indonesia agrees to Papua becoming a sovereign country. A year and a half later, Mr Mehrtens remains a captive of the rebels. Security forces found the body of Mr Conning on Tuesday inside his helicopter that was still parked on a small runway in Alama, in a mountainous district that can be reached only by small aircraft, said Lieutenant General Richard Tampubolon, chief of the joint regional command of Papua. Advertisement He said bad weather conditions halted their search and evacuation operation on Monday. The rescue operation on Tuesday also evacuated about 13 people, mostly teachers and health workers from Alama, who were traumatised by the incident and fear of their safety. Mr Tampubolon said the body of the pilot was flown to a hospital in Timika for an autopsy before being returned to his family. A preliminary medical examination showed gunshot wounds and slashes from sharp weapons on his body, Mr Tampubolon said. Advertisement We strongly condemned this inhumane killing of a pilot who had made many contributions in providing humanitarian services to remote communities in Papua. West Papua Liberation Army spokesman Sebby Sambom said in a voice message to The Associated Press on Monday that they had designated the area as a restricted zone where civilian aircraft were prohibited from landing. He blamed the pilot for disregarding their warnings. Palestinian officials say eight Palestinians were killed, including four teenagers, and another seven were wounded by Israeli fire during military raids in the occupied West Bank. The Palestinian Health Ministry said on Tuesday that four people, including two 19-year-olds and a 14-year-old, were killed in an overnight raid in the village of Aqaaba in the northern West Bank. Advertisement It said another four people, including an 18-year-old, were killed in an Israeli strike on a vehicle in Jenin a frequent flashpoint where the Islamic Jihad militant group said its fighters were battling the army. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. A Palestinian woman watches an operation by the Israeli military in Tulkarem refugee camp in the West Bank (Majdi Mohammed/AP) Advertisement It comes as the only corridor for humanitarian aid to enter southern Gaza has been shut down, apparently because of fighting in the area. The Israeli military said that the Kerem Shalom crossing was open, but the humanitarian route leading from the crossing into the city of Rafah was closed on Tuesday until further notice. Hamas armed wing said it attacked an Israeli tank in the area. It is not possible to confirm battlefield reports in Gaza. Lebanons Health Ministry also said an Israeli airstrike on a village in the countrys south killed four people. Advertisement The ministry said Tuesdays airstrike targeted a home in the village of Maifadoun near the market town of Nabatiye. It was not immediately clear if the dead were civilians or militants. Israeli police work at the site of a drone strike in Nahariya, Israel (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP) Advertisement Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned as abhorrent an Iranian ambassadors social media comment on Israel. Mr Albanese said ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi had been called in for a meeting with Australias Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade officials over his recent post on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter. Mr Sadeghi cites Hamas spiritual leader Ahmed Yassin advocating that wiping out the Zionist plague out of the holy lands of Palestine happens no later than 2027. Mr Sadeghi added: Looking forward to such a heavenly & divine promise Inshaa-Allah. Advertisement The Arabic expression means if God wills. Mr Albanese told reporters: I make it clear: Theres no place for the sort of comments that were made online on social media by the Iranian ambassador. Family, friends and supporters of Ariel Bibas, who is held hostage by Hamas in the Gaza Strip, mark his fifth birthday in Tel Aviv (Mahmoud Illean/AP) Theyre abhorrent. And they are hateful, they are antisemitic and they have no place, Mr Albanese added. Asked by a reporters if the ambassador should be expelled from Australia, Mr Albanese did not directly answer. The Iranian Embassy in Australia did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday. Israel has carried out near-daily military raids across the West Bank since Hamass October 7 attack out of Gaza triggered the ongoing war there. Palestinians from the West Bank have also carried out a number of attacks on Israelis. The Health Ministry says more than 600 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank since the start of the war. Most were killed during military arrest raids and violent protests. Tropical Storm Debby has moved menacingly into some of the most historic southern cities in the US, bringing prolonged downpours and flooding on Tuesday. Record-setting rain from the storm that killed at least five people in Florida and Georgia was causing flash flooding, with up to 25 inches possible in some areas, the National Hurricane Centre said in its latest advisory on Tuesday morning. Advertisement The storms centre was just south-west of Savannah early on Tuesday, with maximum sustained winds near 45mph and it was moving north-east at less than 6mph. Richard Pasch, of the National Hurricane Centre, said: Tropical cyclones always produce heavy rain, but normally as theyre moving, you know, it doesnt accumulate that much in one place. But when they move very slowly, thats the worst situation. The driver of a stranded vehicle pushes his van out of a flooded street after heavy rain from Tropical Storm Debby in Savannah, Georgia (Stephen B Morton/AP/PA) Advertisement Tropical cyclones derive their energy from warm water, so Debby has weakened over land, but part of the circulation was interacting with water over the Atlantic, Mr Pasch said. The storms centre is expected to move out over the water off the Georgia and South Carolina coast, then move back inland, so it could restrengthen on Wednesday before it moves inland on Thursday over South Carolina, he said. More than six inches of rain had fallen through Monday at Savannahs airport and showed no signs of stopping on Tuesday, the National Weather Service reported. Advertisement The figure is already a months worth of rain in a single day: In all of August 2023, the city got 5.56 inches of rain. Flash flood warnings were issued in Savannah and Charleston, South Carolina, among other areas of coastal Georgia and South Carolina. Both Savannah and Charleston announced overnight curfews as the rains picked up. Charleston police barricaded all eight roads leading into the 350-year-old city built on a marshy peninsula on Monday night after urging non-residents to leave, and said the curfew would remain through Tuesday, letting only essential workers and emergency personnel pass through. Tornadoes knocked down trees and damaged a few homes on Kiawah Island and Edisto Island between Savannah and Charleston. Advertisement More than 10 inches of rain fell between Hilton Head Island and Charleston overnight, radar estimates showed. Debby made landfall along the Gulf Coast of Florida early on Monday as a Category 1 hurricane. Amy Tittle holds on to her hat while trying to photograph her son surfing in the high waves created by Tropical Storm Debby near the pier in Tybee Island, Georgia (Stephen B Morton/AP/PA) Advertisement Weakening winds made it a tropical storm again, but its slow forward movement and the ocean water it picked up caused catastrophic damage in places. About 500 people were rescued on Monday from flooded homes in Sarasota, Florida, a beach city popular with tourists, the Sarasota Police Department announced. Essentially weve had twice the amount of the rain that was predicted for us to have, Sarasota County Fire Chief David Rathbun said on social media. Five people had died due to the storm as of Monday night, including a tractor trailer driver who lost control on Interstate 75 in the Tampa area, flipping over a concrete wall and dangling over the edge before the cab dropped into the water below. Sheriffs office divers located the body of the 64-year-old man from Mississippi in the cab, 40ft below the surface, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. A 13-year-old boy died when a tree fell on a mobile home south-west of Gainesville, Florida, and in Dixie County, near where Debby made landfall, a 38-year-old woman and a 12-year-old boy died in a car crash on wet roads. In south Georgia, a 19-year-old man died when a large tree fell onto a porch at a home in Moultrie, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. More than 155,000 customers remained without power in Florida and Georgia on Tuesday morning, down from more than 350,000, according to PowerOutage.us and Georgia Electric Membership Corp. More than 20,000 others were without power in South Carolina early on Tuesday. President Joe Biden approved emergency declarations making federal disaster assistance available to Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. Tropical Storm Debby drenched coastal cities in Georgia and South Carolina, stirred up tornadoes and submerged streets with waist-high floodwaters on Tuesday. Charleston and Savannah took the first blow, with up to a foot of rain falling along the coast between the two cities in just over 24 hours. Advertisement Police blocked all the roads into Charlestons downtown peninsula as a precaution. Dozens of roads were closed in the historic city because of flooding similar to what it sees several times a year because of rising sea levels. As Debby swirls just offshore, the heavy rain is expected to move north into parts of South Carolina and North Carolina that have already seen two billion-dollar floods in eight years. An area half a mile from the Alafia River in Florida is inundated with waist-high water after rainfall from Tropical Storm Debby (Max Chesnes/Tampa Bay Times via AP/PA) Advertisement In one Savannah neighbourhood, firefighters used boats on Tuesday afternoon to evacuate some residents and waded in waist-deep in floodwaters to deliver bottled water and supplies to others who refused to leave. Officials in Charleston continued a curfew, closing all roads into the downtown peninsula and letting only essential workers and emergency personnel pass through. Mayor William Cogswell said the move meant the city had not had to do any high water rescues and kept businesses and homes from unnecessary damage. Advertisement South Carolina governor Henry McMaster said Debby has not yet been as bad as feared, but he warned residents the slow-moving storm was far from over. It will be a nervous few days for northern South Carolina and southern North Carolina where forecasters warned up to 15 inches of rain could fall, totals close to what the region saw in a historic flood from Hurricane Matthew in 2016. Then, two years later, rains and flooding from Hurricane Florence broke many of those records. Both storms killed dozens. Debbys centre was 10 miles east of Savannah, the National Hurricane Centre said in its 5pm advisory on Tuesday. Advertisement It was moving east-northeast at just 3mph and right along the coastline near Georgias Tybee Island. Residents repair their roof as high winds from an outer band from Tropical Storm Debby passed over the Isle of Palms in South Carolina (Mic Smith/AP/PA) The storm was expected to slowly move out to sea, then reverse and creep back onshore on Thursday near Charleston. Advertisement Tropical cyclones always produce heavy rain, but normally as theyre moving, you know, it doesnt accumulate that much in one place, Richard Pasch of the Hurricane Centre said. But when they move very slowly, thats the worst situation. Close to a foot of rain was reported down the coast from Charleston to Savannah, where the National Weather Service reported 6.68 inches of rainfall just on Monday, a months worth of rain in a single day. Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane early on Monday along the Gulf Coast of Florida. At least five people have died due to the storm, either in traffic accidents or from fallen trees. More than 155,000 customers remained without power in Florida and Georgia on Tuesday morning, down from more than 350,000, according to PowerOutage.us and Georgia Electric Membership Corp. More than 20,000 others were without power in South Carolina early on Tuesday. President Joe Biden approved emergency declarations making federal disaster assistance available to Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. Debby is finally expected to pick up speed on Thursday. The Hurricane Centre predicts the system could move up the middle of North Carolina, through Virginia and into the Washington DC area by Saturday. US presidential candidate Donald Trump said on Tuesday he will do "a major interview with Elon Musk" on the night of Monday, August 12th. Trump made the announcement in a social media post. He did not provide details. Advertisement Musk, the billionaire chief executive of Tesla, has publicly endorsed Trump in the US presidential race, calling the Republican former president "tough." South African-born Musk, the world's richest person, has shifted towards right-wing politics in recent years and has donated to a political group working to elect Trump. The businessman's sway stands to benefit Trump, since Musk has one of the largest footprints on X with 189.5 million followers, meaning his posts can instantaneously spread widely. Musk has said he previously voted for Democratic presidential candidates Hillary Clinton as well as Biden. Advertisement However, in the last few years, Musk has espoused right-wing views, becoming a fierce critic of diversity initiatives, US president Joe Biden's immigration policies and complaining that Democrats had given a "very cold shoulder" to Tesla and his rocket company SpaceX. In March, Trump reportedly met with Musk and other wealthy donors. In response to reports of the meeting, Musk posted on X: "Just to be super clear, I am not donating money to either candidate for US President." In May, he also denied media reports that there had been talks over a potential advisory role for him in any Trump presidency. In July 2022, Musk said Trump was "too old to be" president of the United States, and Trump needed to "sail into the sunset." Musk also said he was leaning towards supporting Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for president in 2024. Trump hit back, calling Musk a "bull***t artist". Advertisement Then in late 2022, Twitter reversed its ban on former US president Trump shortly after Musk completed his $44 billion purchase of the controversial social media platform, which he later renamed X. Last month, Trump said he was "a fan of Elon," adding "he does an incredible job with Tesla." Musk said at a recent Tesla shareholder meeting that the two men had "some conversations." Trump is a "huge fan" of Tesla's electric pickup trucks, Musk said. Trump has reiterated his pledge to immediately abandon the Biden administration's "mandate" to support the electric vehicle industry. Musk's support for Republicans and his antisemitic and other controversial comments have alienated some Tesla customers, weighing on the carmaker's reputation and sales. In retrospect, the fate of Queensland Theatres production of a controversial play satirising American politics was telegraphed from the start. During an on-stage Q&A last week, director Lee Lewis alluded to the plays possible cancellation because of the attempted Trump assassination. When I woke up and read the news, I thought, if he doesnt survive, we have to cancel the play because it would be in very bad taste, she said. The cast of Queensland Theatres cancelled production, POTUS. Credit: Morgan Roberts The play, titled POTUS, or Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive, is a White House-set comedy by US playwright Selina Fillinger. The Logies role, which hes set to take on again, means that he has to talk about himself and his work more than hed like. For this high-profile assignment, hes in the spotlight on his own, initially for the crucial monologue which ideally warms the room, gets the assembled audience onside and establishes an upbeat mood for the proceedings. Part of the trick is making it appear easy, even if the generally publicity-averse performer makes it sound as if its no big deal. In Pangs genuinely humble and reflexively self-deprecating estimation, hes just lucky to be able to have fun with his friends and to build a career in an industry that he loves. But none of it is actually easy. It takes work: spot-on timing and astute judgment of tone; the ability to be cheeky and droll without getting nasty. A mastery of the pause-for-effect after delivering a gag. Quick wit and the capacity to land a killer ad-lib. He makes it look easy. Sam Pang might be delivering delightfully deadpan quips on Tens comic quiz show, Have You Been Paying Attention? Or ribbing his co-hosts and a bouncy parade of AFL greats on Sevens sports panel show, The Front Bar . Or donning a tux for the first time in his life to host the Logies. Until his triumph last year, that was a gig widely regarded as a poisoned chalice given its damaging impact on some previous MCs. But to whatever he does, Pang brings an affable, relaxed quality, as if hes cruising, not taking any of it too seriously. Pang says that for someone accustomed to being a team player, the solo challenge was part of the appeal. Anytime people see me on TV, Im part of a team, which is wonderful. On both of the shows Im on, when things go wrong, there are others to back me up. With HYBPA? Ive got Tommy Gleisner and Ed (Kavalee) and three others; on Front Bar, Ive got Mick (Molloy) and Andy (Maher). With the Logies, Im not sitting on a panel: its about, Can you do something on your own? Its the same as stand-up, its that muscle, its exciting. I wanted to see if I could do it. Despite the flak that Australian televisions night of nights can cop that its hokey, ridiculously long, a fan-magazine promotion Pang sees its value: You get to celebrate achievement in this industry that were lucky to be a part of. That doesnt mean that we cant have fun with it. Were coming together, were celebrating and there are going to be jokes. Andy Maher, Mick Molloy and Sam Pang present the AFL comedy panel show, The Front Bar. Credit: Channel Seven Pangs hosting debut came in a year marked by changes. The ceremony returned to Sydney after 37 years and to Seven for the first time since 1995. It hadnt had an MC since 2012, relying instead on a roster of presenters. And it was the first time in its 63-year history that it was hosted by a non-white male. In customary style, Pang, who has Chinese heritage, had some fun with that, noting in the monologue that hes half and half, half Channel Seven and half Channel Ten, then pausing to add: Lets be honest, its just great to have an Asian on Channel Seven who isnt trying to smuggle live birds through border security. However, the Logies role means hes less able to dodge the publicity duties hes deftly avoided elsewhere. For his seven years on breakfast radio at Nova on Chrissie, Sam and Browny, he says: Chrissie Swan and Jonathan Brown were happy to do the publicity, and if I dont have to do it, I dont. People would say, Youre very private, but Im going, I think you get enough of me. With TV work, he says, Im lucky because at Front Bar, Mick and Andy do that stuff and with HYBPA?, Tom and Ed are happy to do things. What else am I going to add? If renewable energy sources like solar or wind are used to produce hydrogen, it becomes one of the greenest of green fuels on the planet. The big bonus of renewable hydrogen is that it can be one of the most emissions-free fuels in the world because, when used in a fuel cell, it recombines with oxygen to produce only pure water, says Paul Martyn, Queensland Department of Energy and Climate director-general. Central to this vision is the developing renewable hydrogen sector, which has been earmarked as a game-changer in the green energy landscape. With its ability to store and deliver clean energy on demand, hydrogen is a versatile fuel that can significantly reduce our carbon footprint. Recognising the states renewable energy potential, the Queensland government is taking decisive strides towards a greener horizon with the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, aiming for 70 per cent renewable energy by 2032 and net-zero emissions by 2050. Renewable hydrogen is central to the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, aiming for 70 per cent renewable energy by 2032 and net-zero emissions by 2050. Credit: iStock With vast natural resources paired with regional industry and infrastructure, Queensland is perfectly placed to be a global leader of renewable hydrogen. At a time when the imperative for clean energy has never been greater or clearer, Queensland is at the forefront of a renewable revolution. Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. What is hydrogen and how is it produced? Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, yet on Earth, it is rarely found in its pure form. Instead, it bonds with other elements to form compounds, such as water (H2O). Through a process called electrolysis, high voltage electricity is used to separate hydrogen from oxygen in water, resulting in hydrogen gas. The diverse uses of hydrogen Hydrogens versatility is one of its greatest strengths. It can be used in power stations, providing a reliable energy source to fill the gaps when the sun isnt shining, or the wind isnt blowing. Hydrogen also has potential uses in long-distance transport road, rail, sea, and air where electricity and batteries are not suitable. Filling up a vehicle with hydrogen is just like filling it with petrol or LPG and takes a similar amount of time. Industries such as aluminium, steelmaking, refining, and chemical production are also exploring renewable hydrogen to produce the high heat (above 1000 degrees) required to make their products without emitting carbon dioxide. Industries are looking for a carbon-free natural gas alternative, and hydrogen could well be that solution, says Martyn. Future possibilities In addition to the many potential uses of hydrogen in Queensland, Australia is expected to be the worlds largest net-exporter of low-emissions hydrogen by 2050, with Queensland at its heart. Powerhouse nations like Japan, which alone has a hydrogen target of 20 million tonnes for 2050, are turning to Queensland to help meet their ambitious decarbonisation needs. One of the flagship projects in Queensland is the Central Queensland Hydrogen (CQ-H2) project, expected to deliver almost 9000 jobs and $17.2 billion in exports. The Commonwealth has shortlisted CQ-H2 for its $2 billion Hydrogen Headstart program and this year awarded a $48.2 million grant to Edify Energy for the development of Townsvilles Green Hydrogen Hub. The opportunities that hydrogen brings extends beyond the sale of hydrogen gas or its derivative products. The hydrogen supply chain will need to grow to meet the global demand. This creates opportunities in manufacturing of key equipment. Weve already seen Fortescues Central Queensland Green Electrolyser Facility open earlier this year which makes the electrolysers that many producers globally will need to make hydrogen. Next to the Green Electrolyser Facility in Gladstone, is the largest hydrogen production project in Australia to reach the final investment decision stage - Fortescues 50MW $150 million PEM50 hydrogen production plant. The project is set to begin production in 2025 and reach full scale by 2028, capable of producing up to 8000 tonnes or 50MW of green hydrogen each year. We can see the day when hydrogen is a $40 billion-a-year business, says Martyn. Paul Martyn, Queensland Department of Energy and Climate director-general. Queensland is taking hydrogen seriously - we were the first in the world to appoint a hydrogen minister and the first in the country to develop a Hydrogen Safety Code of Practice. The environmental benefits of hydrogen One of the key advantages of hydrogen is that it helps industries that cant be fully electrified to reduce their emissions. Hydrogen can support industries like construction, mining, and heavy freight to decarbonise, says Martyn. In Queensland, by using renewable hydrogen it is estimated that by 2050 up to 14 million tonnes of carbon emissions could be reduced per year. As existing industry switches to more sustainable ways of operating, we are likely to see the environment improve. Lower emissions can have positive impacts on air quality and can help preserve habitat. Community support and local innovation The Department of Energy and Climate plays a pivotal role in this transformative journey, spearheading initiatives to cultivate community awareness and confidence in hydrogen technologies. Central to this, is our commitment to building a conducive ecosystem for hydrogen development in Queensland. This includes educating the community on the benefit of hydrogen, ensuring transparency in project developments, and supporting local innovation, says Martyn. Queenslands regions have established hydrogen technology clusters to help local businesses capitalise on opportunities in the industry. Recognising the need for a skilled workforce, Queensland has invested more than $50 million in training facilities to help people transition into the hydrogen industry and to develop the skills of the future workforce. The future of hydrogen in Queensland The potential for hydrogen in Queensland is immense. With more than 50 hydrogen-related projects at various stages of development and significant investments from both the public and private sectors, the future of hydrogen in Queensland is bright. Hydrogen really is a bright star in Queenslands energy future, says Martyn. To learn more about Queenslands renewable hydrogen sector and stay updated on the latest developments, please visit the Queensland Department of Energy and Climate. We dont have a crocodile problem at all, he said. In Indonesia, for example, there were at least 85 people killed last year by saltwater crocodiles, usually subsistence fishermen taking risks. Some of the deaths in Australia include Indonesian fishermen in our waters. Why do crocodiles attack humans? The short answer is because they are hungry and humans are food. Crocodiles always have attacked humans and our ancestors, going back hundreds of thousands of years, Sideleau said. It is natural behaviour, but it can become excessive if certain individuals learn that humans are easy prey. He said crocodiles in Australia typically ate fish, crabs and turtles, and only hunted humans or other large mammals if the opportunity presented itself, if the individual had learned humans were easy food, or there was not enough other prey. Loading If a crocodile attacked a human, they would usually seize the person and pull them underwater, until they stopped struggling. In the Cooktown incident, local residents reportedly had been feeding the crocodiles, including with roadkill. Professor Mike Letnic at the University of NSW said this would have increased the danger. The problem with feeding them is that crocodiles are really quite intelligent, and they will begin to hang around in areas where they know there is regular food available, Letnic said. Feeding crocodiles was banned, but Sideleau said this was rarely enforced, and penalties were not enough. Why are crocodiles protected? Saltwater crocodiles were nearly wiped out by hunting until they were protected in the 1970s, starting with Western Australia in 1970. The numbers have now rebounded to about 105,000 in the NT, 20,000-30,000 in Queensland and 100,000 in Western Australia. Theyre in very good shape now, Letnic said. Were becoming increasingly aware that large predators play really important roles in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Sideleau said there was a misconception the population would keep growing. As apex predators, the population was self-regulating because if they overpopulated, they starved. Sideleau said the crocodile population in the NT had been stable for a decade. In Queensland, the species was still considered vulnerable and would probably never recover because of pressure from the large and expanding human population on the coast. So far, there is no sign that saltwater crocodiles are expanding their range because of climate change. While they have been spotted in Queensland as far south as Maryborough and Fraser Island, both experts agreed this was the creatures reclaiming historical territory. Both the NT and Queensland governments remove and relocate crocodiles away from towns, and the NT has a permit program permitting third parties to remove crocodiles or eggs from the wild. Some people advocate for a cull, but Sideleau said this wont increase public safety, and it would require an eradication program to allow swimming at Kakadu, for example. Loading What do Australian governments say about crocodiles? The Queensland government website says Croc Country, or typical crocodile habitat, begins at the Boyne River south of Gladstone, and extends northward and around the top to the NT border. Crocodiles can be found in freshwater and saltwater locations along the coast, from rivers and creeks hundreds of kilometres inland to offshore islands of the Great Barrier Reef. Crocodiles use ambush tactics, such as lying and waiting at the waters edge, can stay underwater for over an hour and can be completely concealed, even in knee-deep water. They are most active at night, dusk and dawn. The government advice is to stay at least 5 metres from the waters edge, dispose of food and fish scraps in a bin or take them home, keep pets away from the water, avoid using small watercraft such as kayaks and paddleboards, and stay away from crocodile traps. The NT government website says it should be assumed that any water body in the saltwater crocodiles natural range was unsafe to swim, unless signposted for swimming. The Western Australian government website says anywhere in the Kimberley or Pilbara is crocodile country. What should you do if a crocodile attacks you? Run for your life. Dont bother zig-zagging that is a furphy. Loading The idea that crocodiles can chase people on land is just a myth, Sideleau said. They can only do it for short bursts out of the water for maybe 5-7 metres. They can charge out real fast ... but once theyre on land, theyre not very agile. Sideleau said most attacks were by crocodiles in the 2.5 to 3-metre range, and an adult human had a good chance of fighting it off. Gouging the eyes was reportedly effective. Bangladeshs protest leaders expect members of an interim government, led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, to be finalised on Wednesday after prime minister Sheikh Hasina quit and fled to India following a violent crackdown on a student-led uprising. Bangladeshs President Mohammed Shahabuddin appointed Yunus as the head of the interim government late on Tuesday, meeting a key demand of students, and said the remaining members needed to be finalised soon to overcome the current crisis, according to a statement from his office. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus. Credit: AP The interim government will fill a power vacuum left after Bangladeshs army chief announced Hasinas resignation in a televised address on Monday that followed weeks of deadly violence that ripped through the country, killing about 300 people and injuring thousands. Her resignation triggered jubilation across the country and crowds stormed into her official residence unopposed after she fled, ending a 15-year second stint in power in the country of 170 million that has suffered economic distress in recent years. Loading Normality slowly began returning to the country after Mondays chaos but fresh protests broke out in a Dhaka neighbourhood on Wednesday when hundreds of officials from the central bank forced four of its deputy governors to resign over alleged corruption, Bangladesh Bank sources said. The bank did not immediately comment. Giant neighbour India, which has strong cultural and business ties with Bangladesh, evacuated all non-essential staff and their families from its embassy and four consulates in the country, two Indian government sources said. Most schools and university campuses in Dhaka and other cities that shut in mid-July due to the protests, reopened while people took buses and other transport to offices and banks. The countrys mainstay garments factories that had been shut for days began opening on Wednesday. The interim government is expected to hold elections soon after taking charge, while a spokesperson for Yunus said he would arrive in Dhaka on Thursday after a medical procedure in Paris. Reuters Clarke said he had known Carter for 16 years and introduced her to the Labor Party after she was elected to council as an independent. She wanted nothing, only the betterment of the community, he said. That should be on her headstone. Im in a total state of disbelief [that she is gone]. Im hearing it, but I cant feel it. Shes still with me. Carter had recently returned from Vanuatu. Carter had spoken publicly about her IVF journey and struggles with infertility. During COVID-19 lockdowns, she spoke out against the Victorian governments pause on IVF treatment. Carter was one of the potential Labor candidates floated for the federal seat of Hawke in 2021. The preselection fight turned into a messy subfactional dispute over gender representation within the Labor Right, of which she was a member. She spoke at a rally on the steps of Victorian Parliament during that preselection battle to demand a woman be preselected for the seat in Melbournes north-west. Labor MP Tim Watts said he was devastated by Carters death. Sarah lived a life of values and of service and threw herself into everything she was involved in with total commitment, he said. Her energy was limitless and was exhausting for those of us trying to keep up. I had the privilege of seeing first-hand the impact that Sarah had as a councillor and Mayor in Melbournes West, as an international aid and development advocate and as a friend. She had an impact on so many peoples lives. She gave so much of herself and wanted to give so much more. Shes been taken from us far too soon. Its a terrible loss to our community and our country. Bill Shorten, Minister for the NDIS and federal Labor MP for Maribyrnong, described Carter as a remarkable, irreplaceable, dedicated, passionate advocate. Childrens champion, community leader, Labor through and through. The best of us, he said. Federal MP Tim Watts said he was devastated by Carters death. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones in this difficult time. Carter worked for Save the Children, where she managed the Australian Regional Leadership Initiative, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Her role was to provide MPs with first-hand experience of aid efforts in the Pacific, Middle East and South-East Asia. Carter was also passionate about gender equality, having served as Maribyrnong Councils gender equity ambassador since 2011. She joined the board of Gender Equity Victoria this year. Her romantic relationships had been the subject of reporting in tabloid media in recent years. Carter pictured with Labor frontbencher and Melbourne MP Bill Shorten. Shadow Minister for Local Government Darren Chester, a friend of Carters, said she was intelligent, talented and kind. Sarah was a beautiful and thoughtful soul who brought people together across the political divide with her infectious enthusiasm and determination to focus on the values that unite us, he said. She had an extraordinary capacity to make a difference in her local community while also striving to make the world a better place through her involvement with Save the Children. The world is a darker place tonight. An emotional former deputy prime minister Michael McCormack, who had travelled to three countries with Carter, described her as a beautiful human and a force of nature. He had returned from a trip to Vanuatu with Carter and a delegation of MPs at the weekend. She made such a difference and the world is a lesser place for her passing, he said on Tuesday night. She was smart, funny, intelligent. I am gutted Maribyrnong City Council released a statement late on Tuesday from Mayor Cuc Lam and CEO Celia Haddock. Councillor Carter was a trusted and valued colleague and her passing is an enormous loss to our community who she has worked tirelessly to support over her 16 years on Council, it read. We extend our deepest condolences to Cr Carters partner, family, friends, and all who knew and worked alongside her. She will be greatly missed. Federal police have seized the home and assets of two Russian-born Australian citizens accused of spying for Moscow. Brisbane couple Kira Korolev, 40, an Australian Army private, and her 62-year-old labourer husband, Igor Korolev, were each charged with an espionage-related offence on July 11. The offence carries a maximum penalty of 15 years imprisonment. The home and bank accounts of Kira (left) and Igor Korolev have been seized by Australian Federal Police. The AFP alleged the pair accessed sensitive Australian Defence Force information with the intent to provide it to Russian authorities. Home buyers are turning to more affordable properties after two years of higher interest rates slashed the amount of money they could borrow. The strong demand has been pushing up prices for cheaper properties at a faster pace compared to more expensive homes. The bottom quartile of the market across Australian capitals grew 3.3 per cent over the past three months, CoreLogic data reveals. It easily outpaced the top quartile of properties over the same period, which grew 0.8 per cent. The Reserve Bank on Tuesday held the cash rate at 4.35 per cent. The board indicated that inflation was persistently high and did not rule in or out further rate rises. The most striking feature of the polls in the US today is that even the most dramatic events make only the most marginal impact. The Democrat pollster Mark Mellman points to earlier US presidential elections where the opinion polls gyrated by 12, 14, even 16 percentage points in the space of a couple of months. But today? Bidens disastrous debate moved the polls away from him by less than 1 percentage point. The following three weeks of hysterical Democrat self-flagellation by only another 1.5. And the bombshell of Bidens withdrawal from the candidacy? That merely won those 1.5 points back again for Harris. Even the assassination attempt on Trump failed to move the needle. Why? Mellman explains it as a result of partisanship, polarisation and parity. The three Ps lock voters in, allowing for precious little movement. The second illusion is that Trump is floundering. There has been a raft of reports that he has gone off script, departed from the campaign plan and brushed aside his advisers. Instead of trying to attack Harris on her policies, hes gone rogue by insulting her personally and running critiques of her person her laugh, her brains, her claim to blackness. Loading Trumps insults are evidence, according to the dominant media narrative, that hes losing. Hes variously been described as unhappy, rattled, off-balance, panicked. Youd need to have acute amnesia to think that this is Trump off script. Its typical. Trumps entire political career is little more than a continuous onslaught of insults and racist slurs. His first political impact was in leading the birther campaign against Barack Obama and playing up his middle name Hussein to paint him as alien and illegitimate. He began his first presidential campaign descending the golden escalator and denouncing Mexican rapists. And so on. This is not Trump gone rogue. This is Trump the rogue, absolutely in character and on target. Its inherent in his very character as a right-wing populist. Now hes applying the right-wing populist treatment singling out the other for scapegoating to Harris. Loading Rich Bond, a veteran strategist and former chair of the Republican National Convention, told The New York Times that the Trump campaign has a two-part list. One is to take Harris down. The second is dont let Mr Trump be a jerk. Thats the entire list, and the second part may be impossible. Yes, its impossible. Trump doesnt care. But surely these sorts of nasty, racist, sexist attacks only alienate the very voters he needs to win over? Women and black voters, especially. If he cared, hed have chosen a different vice-presidential candidate, maybe a woman or a black person. Instead, he chose J.D. Vance, a Trump mini-me. This leads to the third illusion that Trumps first and only priority is to win the election. Certainly, hes competing to win. But of paramount importance to Trump is holding the fierce loyalty of his followers. He wont soften play nice with Kamala if it risks losing the intense devotion of his hard core MAGA base. In any case, nice Donald would be transparently fake. If Trump is to win, he will need the MAGA mob to vote for him. But if he loses, he will need the mob to riot for him. After losing the 2020 election he incited his acolytes to storm the Capitol to block the certification of the election. Loading They failed. Trump never has retracted, never has recanted and repeatedly promises vengeance. To this day, he refuses to commit to accepting an election loss. Just a couple of weeks ago he told an audience to vote for him, and hed fix it so good youll never need to vote again. He is signalling plainly that he has no regard for the constitution. Harris has one route to power to win the election. Trump has two. To win the election or to claim power illegally, by force. The US media is operating under the wilful delusion that this is a normal election. But there is no return to normal as long as there is Trump. Trump is a political wrecking ball. He will try to wreck Harris through the electoral system and, if that doesnt work, hell wreck the electoral system. To expect otherwise is an illusion. The Indian government is not considering any relaxation in the tax demand it sent to Infosys last month, according to a government source. The tax demand is in accordance to the good and services tax rules and the country's second-largest IT services firm has sought ten days to submit its response after meeting tax officials, the source said. The source declined to be named as they were not authorised to speak to the media. Shares of Infosys, which were up 1.6 per cent before the news amid a broader market rebound, briefly trimmed gains to about 0.3 per cent after the news. They were last up 1.2 per cent. Danish-based drugmaker domestic arm Novo Nordisk told Business Standard about its plans to introduce a drug for sickle cell disease (undergoing Phase - 3 trials) in the country in the next 3-5 years depending on regulatory approvals. India aims to be sickle cell free by 2045. Moreover, the company announced the plan to hire about 1,300 new employees by the end of 2026 in its GBS (global business services) division, as per the statement at a media briefing. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp Novo Nordisk has already rolled out 700 jobs in 2024 in India, totalling 4,200 employees. The company is further focusing on roles such as PhDs, pharmacists, commercial experts, finance professionals, IT experts, and so on. At the event, the Government of Karnataka (GoK) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Novo Nordisk Education Foundation (NNEF) by the India arm, to launch the Changing Diabetes Barometer (CDB) programme. As part of this MoU, Community Diabetes Centres (CDCs) shall be developed in various district hospitals, sub-district hospitals, community health centres, and primary health centres across the state. The pilot projects will be rolled out in three districts of Karnataka Bengaluru Urban, Dakshina Karnataka, and Yadgiri. The programme aims at mapping diabetes impact on a real-time basis and promoting early diagnosis and treatment options along with lifestyle modifications. We are committed to upgrading our health ecosystem and healthcare services to address the unmet needs of people living with various non-communicable diseases and promote the overall well-being of all citizens. Diabetes continues to be a major health concern not just for Karnataka but for the entire nation. The Indian Council of Medical Research in its recent study highlighted that India has around 101 million people living with diabetes and another 136 million people in pre-diabetic stages, said Dinesh Gundu Rao, minister of health and family welfare, GoK. The partnership is focused on improving the overall diabetes care ecosystem in the state by means of several interventions: creating awareness and advocacy for NCDs like diabetes among the masses, a 360-degree upskilling and training model for doctors and healthcare workers at primary and secondary healthcare facilities, improved infrastructural support, digitisation support, and education and counselling for lifestyle modification via Information, Education and Communication (IEC) material. Besides Karnataka, Novo Nordisk has partnered with other state governments for the launch of 12 excellence centres in Goa, Agra, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Noida, Hyderabad, etc. Furthermore, Novo Nordisk is seeking academic collaboration with IIT and IIIT in Bengaluru, and Manipal Hospital, to name a few. Changing Diabetes Barometer (CDB) programme highlights NNEFs unique ACT approach - increasing Awareness, building Capacity, and elevating Treatment across Karnataka. Till now, we have partnered with several state governments in various capacities to develop programmes that support diabetes care under the public-private partnership (PPP) framework, said Vikrant Shrotriya, managing trustee, Novo Nordisk Education Foundation. This will help bring the qualitative and quantitative aspects of this disease to the forefront within society. Considering the alarming diabetes statistics across India, we aim to support policy initiatives by various states and the Union government to benefit masses, added Shrotriya. India being a crucial hotspot for diabetes, Novo Nordisk is also working around a once-a-week insulin concept in the near future where one does not need to take a prick every day. Furthermore, the drugmaker is carrying out a total of 40 clinical trials in India. The Power Finance Corporation (PFC) did not take up the issue of a loan sanctioned to the Shapoorji Pallonji (SP) Group in its board meeting held in Delhi today, said a top PFC official. The corporations board had earlier sanctioned a loan of Rs 20,000 crore to the SP Group on June 14, 2024, as per media reports. Earlier, the SP Group stated it would be repaying the loan via its real estate franchises cash flow. The firm has also pledged a portion of the Tata Sons shares owned by the Mistry family as part of a twin security structure for its loan repayment, the statement said. The Mistry family owns an 18.4 per cent stake in Tata Sons. The SP Group statement was in response to media reports that some independent directors of PFC had objected to the loan. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp In its statement, SP Group stated that the value of the provided security structure is in excess of six times the loan value and that it will ensure the complete repayment of the loan over the tenor. The group worked with PFC for the last nine months to formalise this unique proposal, which was validated by reputed third-party consultants. Besides, as of March 2024, PFC has sanctioned about Rs 82,000 crore to the infrastructure sector. The corporation has played a vital role in financing the industry. PFCs consolidated net profit up 20% on a yearly basis The corporation also announced its quarterly financial results in todays board meeting. It reported a net profit of Rs 7,182.06 crore, 20 per cent more than what it was during the same period of the last financial year. The total income stood at Rs 24,736.68 crore, compared to Rs 21,017.81 crore in Q1 FY24. The state-owned firm also declared an interim dividend of Rs 3.25 per equity share (subject to deduction of TDS) on the face value of the paid-up equity shares of Rs 10 each for FY 2024-25. The company will cover the relocation costs for employees who choose to transfer to Bengaluru Quick commerce startup, Zepto, experiencing significant growth in both size and revenue, is planning to relocate its headquarters from Mumbai's Powai, to Bengaluru's Sarjapur, according to a report by Moneycontrol. Although Zepto currently maintains an office in Bengaluru, the company aims to centralise its corporate roles in a larger facility, streamlining operations from multiple cities into one consolidated location. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp Zepto, which operates its business verticals in Mumbai and has tech and product teams in Bengaluru, plans to consolidate all 1,700-1,800 of its employees into a single location. The report quoted a source as saying, While the company has been flexible for now, we have all been mandated to relocate to Bengaluru by the end of November or early December." The company will cover the relocation costs for employees who choose to transfer to Bengaluru. The move is expected to incur a one-time expense of approximately Rs 3 crore-Rs 4 crore for the company, the report said. The report quoted the source as saying, The relocation cost will be offset because Zepto is estimated to save around Rs 40 lakh-Rs 50 lakh in rent per month because of its move from Mumbai to Bengaluru." New office in Bengaluru Zepto operates two primary offices in India: a large 80,000-90,000 sq ft facility in Mumbai and a smaller 30,000-40,000 sq ft space in Bengaluru. The company plans to give up both locations and consolidate its operations into a new, 150,000 sq ft office in Bengaluru. Zepto is currently in the final stages of securing a property of that scale in the Sarjapur, HSR, or Bellandur areas, the report said. Zepto's headcount Out of Zepto's total workforce of 1,700 to 1,800 employees, around 1,000 are based in Mumbai, 400 in Bengaluru, and around 300 are distributed across various locations, managing city operations, the report further said. Of the total 1,000 employees in Mumbai, around 90 per cent are already willing to move and the remaining are in discussions to relocate. If all goes to plan, just 5-7 per cent of the 1,000 will be unable to move to Bengaluru, the source said, as cited by the report. Manish Tiwary has resigned as the country head of Amazon India after spending eight and a half years at the e-commerce firm. Tiwary plans to take up a new role at another firm, people close to the development said without disclosing the details. He would remain in Amazon until October, overseeing the companys festival season, according to sources. The company said Amit Agarwal, SVP India and Emerging Markets, will remain closely involved with the Amazon India team, guiding its strong bench of leaders to deliver on this opportunity. While Tiwarys departure was being discussed internally, it was made public on Tuesday through an email sent to the India leadership team by Agarwal, sources indicated. It is learnt that Agarwals communication pointed out that Amazon has a strong leadership bench that is ready to step up. India is an important priority for Amazon, offering a big opportunity to invent on behalf customers and digitally transform lives and livelihoods, a source said, citing Agarwals letter. Before joining Amazon in 2016, Tiwary spent over two decades in the fast-moving consumer goods business across various categories and channels in India, the Gulf, and North Africa, mainly with Unilever. Manish Tiwary, country manager for Amazon India, has decided to pursue an opportunity outside of the company. Manishs leadership over eight years has been instrumental in delivering for customers and sellers, making Amazon.in the preferred marketplace in India, said a company spokesperson. A computer engineer from BIT-Mesra and an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore, Tiwary was expected to follow his parents, who worked for Tatas. Instead, he took up a job at consumer goods firm Hindustan Unilever in 1995. He stayed there for over two decades. Since 2013, Amazon, which competes with Walmart-owned Flipkart, Reliances JioMart and the Tatas in India, has invested around $6.5 billion in the e-commerce business here. Amazon has been facing many challenges in the country. Trade bodies perceived Amazon and Flipkart as a threat to local retailers and took the matter to the courts. The Competition Commission of India had reportedly launched an investigation over preferential treatment. Amazon has also been fighting a legal battle with Future Retail to stop the Kishore Biyani-led retailers $3.4 billion deal with RIL. Digital aquaponics factory ensures intelligent fish farming, vegetable growing in SW Chinas Chongqing People's Daily Online) 14:37, August 06, 2024 At a digital aquaponics factory that combines fish farming and vegetable growing in Liangping district, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, there's no one to be seen. An automated feeding system precisely feeds the perches, while Li Mai remotely monitors and controls the system from an office in downtown Chongqing, with production data automatically transmitted to his computer. "I'm an engineer and a new type of fisherman," said Li, an agricultural digital technician at the Chongqing Academy of Agricultural Sciences. : Li Mai (R) checks on the growth of Chinese chives at a digital aquaponics factory that combines fish farming and vegetable growing in Liangping district, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. (Photo/Liu Hui) : Li Mai checks the aquaponics system that combines fish farming and vegetable growing on his computer in southwest Chinas Chongqing Municipality. (Photo/Liu Hui) Unlike traditional feeding methods based on experience with fish, the system enables AI-driven intelligent feeding. Li's role now focuses on "feeding" data to the AI farming system to make it smarter and more experienced. The factory has an aquaponics system where fish are raised downstairs and vegetables are grown upstairs, with pipes connecting the two floors. The fish pools use smart algorithms to control feeders based on the fishs needs, while sensors automatically monitor water conditions, including temperature and dissolved oxygen levels. In the vegetable greenhouses, wastewater from fish farming is turned into liquid fertilizer for vegetables after treatment. Precise monitoring is key to the success of the fish farming model, and that means the sensors it relies on to monitor water quality must be accurate. The journey hasn't been without difficulties. In 2022, the farm suffered significant fish losses due to sensor failures. Poor predictions by the sensors resulted in water quality adjustments not being made in time. The Chongqing Academy of Agricultural Sciences brought in aquaculture experts to solve the problems, ensuring more accurate water quality management. Under the guidance of experts and professors, a much stronger water quality system was developed that used monitoring sensors and predictive AI models to create a smart early warning system for any issues. Next, Li and his colleagues focused on feeding the fish. Insufficient feeding of the fish slows down their growth, while over feeding wastes resources and can also cause issues for the fish. Together, they eventually developed an AI model for precise feeding and an intelligent feeder, significantly reducing farming costs. They have also developed a system to monitor the growth of fish. Li said that the digital aquaponics factory has nearly halved the growth cycle of fish, reduced feed use by 20 percent, and increased the per unit output of fish tenfold compared to that in ponds. In addition, the vegetable yield there is also over ten times that of farmland. (Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun) Planning a vacation is always exciting, but there's nothing worse than having all your bookings in place and then not getting your visa approved. Its a real mood killer. But dont worry, theres some good news for you. Atlys, a travel tech startup, has just rolled out an AI-powered Visa Probability Evaluator. How does it work? Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp This tool uses advanced AI and machine learning models to predict your chances of getting a visa. According to Atlys, it can help reduce visa rejections by 80%. This is particularly useful for Indian travellers facing frequent last-minute rejections, leading to financial losses and ruined travel plans. The Visa Probability Evaluator offers a straightforward way to check your chances of getting a visa before you even start the application process. Take Mayank Sharma, a Delhi-based executive, for example. He lost Rs 3.5 lakh on non-refundable bookings when his Schengen visa was denied two days before his trip. This tool aims to prevent such losses by providing more reliable insights into visa approval. Harshil Shah, Product Lead at Atlys, says, "We encourage users to assess their visa probability even if their travel plans are 1-2 years away. This foresight allows ample time to address and strengthen any gaps in their application." Shah also adds, "With the launch of our Visa Probability Evaluator, we are providing travellers with unprecedented clarity and confidence, ensuring they can approach their visa applications with a strategic advantage." How to use the tool To use the tool, you need to enter your travel details and upload the necessary documents on the Atlys platform. The algorithm will then analyse data from past visa applications to give you a probability score. You'll get a detailed report with insights to improve your chances of approval. Visa rejection woes Visa rejections are a costly problem. According to the Schengen Statistics Portal, Indians lost around Rs 109 crore due to rejected visa applications. Out of 966,687 applications, 151,752 were denied. The non-refundable fees add to the financial burden on applicants. Key points to remember Start early: Use the tool even if your travel plans are far ahead. Detailed insights: Get a clear report on your chances and how to improve them. Avoid financial losses: Prevent losses on non-refundable bookings by understanding your approval probability early on. Travellers planning a trip to Sri Lanka, take note: the eVisa facility is currently suspended. The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka on August 2 issued an interim order suspending the relatively new online visa portal managed by IVS-GBS and VFS Global. Instead, the previous electronic travel authorisation (ETA) system, operated by Mobitel, a Sri Lankan telecommunications company, will be reinstated. What is e-visa? Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp In addition to the visa-on-arrival, the e-visa facility, which includes an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), is extended to nationals of 167 countries. This facility allows entry through 30 designated international airports and six major seaports. Similar to the visa-on-arrival, the e-visa covers tourism, business, conference, and medical purposes, permitting a stay of up to 60 days with double entry. Why was the eVisa system suspended? According to a statement on the official government electronic visa issuance portal, VFS Global said they were notified of the Supreme Court's interim orders regarding the platform's operating agreement. "In view of these orders, the website is suspended effective 2 August at 17:00 hours Sri Lanka Standard Time," the company stated. For applicants who submitted visa applications after 5 PM on August 2, VFS Global assured refunds upon providing their application reference number to travel.partner@srilankaevisa.lk. Controversy surrounding the eVisa Scheme On April 17, 2024, Sri Lanka replaced its ETA system with an eVisa process managed by a consortium including VFS Global, GBS Technology, and IVS Global Services. The scheme has been in the centre of a storm since its introduction. Local tour operators protested against it, and the government faced accusations of corruption involving over a billion dollars related to this visa scheme. The Supreme Court's suspension order led to the shutdown of the official government electronic visa issuance portal, with a message confirming the suspension due to the interim orders. What next? The Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) announced that the ETA system is expected to be operational "within the course of next week." Tourism Minister Harin Fernando had earlier said, "My view is that we should do away with visas altogether for tourists. Travelling should be as simple as getting off the plane and going out." How to apply for a Sri Lankan visa now While e-visa portal has been suspended, Indians still have the option of visa-on-arrival. Here's how you can apply for a Sri Lankan visa: 1. Arrival at Sri Lankan airport: Report to the ETA issuing counter and fill in the ETA application form. 2. Approval process: Once your application is approved, the ETA will be issued for up to 30 days. 3. Immigration counter: After receiving your ETA approval or referral notice, proceed to the Immigration Counter for further checking and visa processing. What is visa-on-arrival? A visa on arrival is a type of visa issued at the time of a foreign national's arrival in a country. The application for a visa on arrival is usually submitted at the airport along with the necessary documents as directed by the respective immigration authorities. Refund for recent eVisa applicants If you applied for an eVisa on August 2 after 5pm, don't worry. You are entitled to a refund. Email your details and application number to travel.partner@srilankaevisa.lk for guidance through the process. Visa restrictions for certain nationals Travellers from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Cote dIvoire, North Korea, Ghana, Myanmar, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Syria cannot obtain a visa upon arrival in Sri Lanka. Applicants from these countries must submit their applications to the headquarters of the Department of Immigration through a representative. The Indian gold industry on Tuesday announced the formation of the Indian Association for Gold Excellence and Standards (IAGES). The Indian gold industry on Tuesday announced the formation of the Indian Association for Gold Excellence and Standards (IAGES), a self-regulatory organisation (SRO) supported by the World Gold Council. The organisation aims to remove the trust deficit and enhance transparency within the sector. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp The framework for IAGES will be independently governed and professionally managed. It will be released soon, after which memberships will be announced. The organisation is expected to become operational by December this year or January 2025, WGC Regional CEO, India, Sachin Jain told PTI. IAGES will be formed by national industry associations, including the Indian Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA), All India Gems and Jewellery Council of India (GJC) and Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC). "IAGES, created by the Indian gold industry, represents the coming together of various stakeholders in the sector. It aims to increase consumer and government confidence by enhancing trust in the Indian gold industry by encouraging adoption of fair, transparent and sustainable practices, regulatory compliance, establishing code of conduct and introducing an audit framework across the entire value chain," Jain added. Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) chairman Vipul Shah said, "The formation of IAGES is a landmark achievement for the Indian gold industry. It underscores our collective commitment to establishing the highest standards of ethics, transparency, and sustainability." All India Gems and Jewellery Council of India (GJC) chairman Saiyam Mehra said, "Together, we aim to promote best practices, ensure the highest quality, and foster trust among consumers and industry stakeholders." "IAGES is poised to not just fortify India's standing as a global gold hub but also catalyze innovation and progression within the sector," India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA) National President Prithviraj Kothari added. Sheikh Hasina previously spent six years in exile in Delhi under an assumed identity following the 1975 assassination of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. (Photo: PTI) After significant public unrest in Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned on August 5 and fled the country, seeking asylum in India. She arrived in Agartala and was flown to New Delhi on the same day. In a televised address, Bangladesh Army Chief Waker-uz-Zaman announced that the military would form an interim government with the assistance of political leaders. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp Meanwhile, Bangladeshi local news sources state that Hasina and her sister, Sheikh Rehana, left the country amid violent student protests in Dhaka, defying a nationwide curfew imposed earlier today. Indias history of granting asylum to political leaders Historically, India has provided asylum to leaders, such as the Dalai Lama, who was granted asylum on March 30, 1959, under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Nehru publicly supported this decision on April 4, 1959, citing India's security, friendly relations with China, and sympathy for Tibetans. Sheikh Hasina previously spent six years in exile in Delhi under an assumed identity following the 1975 assassination of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and other family members. This period saw Bangladesh under military rule, leading to significant political turmoil. What is asylum and why is it needed? The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) defines asylum as a protection granted to individuals who flee their country due to fear of persecution, which can include harm or threats. Asylum can also be sought by those who have previously experienced persecution in their home country. Asylum seekers, also known as migrants or refugees, are defined by the United Nations Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees as individuals who, due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, social group membership, or political opinion, are outside their country of nationality and unable or unwilling to seek its protection. This definition also applies to stateless persons unable or unwilling to return to their country of former habitual residence due to fear of persecution. Some notable asylum cases around the world Iceland granted asylum to former chess champion Bobby Fischer, who was wanted in the US for violating international sanctions by playing a chess match in Yugoslavia. US whistleblower Edward Snowden received permanent residency rights in Russia in 2020 after fleeing the US in 2013 following his leaks about US National Security Agency surveillance operations. WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange sought asylum in the Ecuadorian embassy in London in 2012 to avoid extradition to Sweden on allegations he claimed were a ploy to extradite him to the US. Former Peruvian President Alan Garcia sought asylum in the Uruguayan embassy in Lima, and former Macedonian Prime Minister Nicola Gruevski applied for asylum in Hungary to avoid imprisonment on corruption charges. Global asylum statistics At the end of 2021, approximately 89.3 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide, with 27.1 million refugees and 53.2 million internally displaced within their home countries. According to refugeecouncil.org.uk, 72 per cent of refugees live in countries neighbouring their place of origin, often in developing nations. In 2021, the majority of refugees came from Syria (6.8 million), Venezuela (4.6 million), Afghanistan (2.7 million), South Sudan (2.4 million), and Myanmar (1.2 million). International law grants anyone the right to apply for asylum in any country that has signed the 1951 Refugee Convention, allowing them to remain there while their claim is assessed. The 1951 Convention acknowledges that fleeing persecution may require irregular means and guarantees the right to apply for asylum, having saved millions of lives since its inception. No country has withdrawn from the Convention. By Kai Schultz, Dan Strumpf and Arun Devnath The end was abrupt and unforgiving for one of Asias longest-serving leaders. After enduring weeks of protests demanding her resignation, Sheikh Hasina saw her 15-year rule as Bangladeshs prime minister unravel over the course of a bloody weekend that left scores of people dead. It culminated Monday with a mob ransacking her residence and the military forcing her to flee the country. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp Her sudden departure marked the end of a run that saw Hasina, 76, turn Bangladesh into both an economic success story and a case study in the pitfalls of authoritarian rule. Even as surging exports of garments and other goods lifted millions out of poverty, her increasing suppression of political opponents sowed the seeds of her downfall. Yet what comes next is unclear. Bangladeshs army, no stranger to coups, is now looking to set up an interim government that may exclude Hasinas Awami League, which won about 80% of parliamentary seats in a boycotted vote in January. While President Mohammed Shahabuddin vowed to hold elections as soon as possible, its unclear if her allies will be able to participate or return to power. The best-case scenario is that the military follows a template from a coup in 2007, when the generals oversaw an interim government and peacefully relinquished power about two years later after an election won by Hasinas party. Yet that outcome remains uncertain. Bangladesh could also see the military hold on to power for an extended period or more violence as various factions jockey for power, according to Paul Staniland, a professor at the University of Chicago who researches political violence in South Asia. The country saw widespread looting and arson attacks after Hasina fled. Protest leaders on Monday said they would resist any government that didnt meet their demands, and have proposed Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist Muhammad Yunus, 84, to serve as the leader of the interim government. Yunus, who pioneered micro loans as a tool to fight poverty, has faced legal trouble under Hasina that he has called politically motivated. Its difficult to be confident about exactly how the coming days play out, Staniland said. When push came to shove, the military was unwilling to try to violently repress the ever-growing protests, and this was the trigger for the end of her time in office. Internationally, the biggest immediate risks fall on neighboring India. The Hindu-dominant government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned Hasinas more moderate administration into a close ally, viewing her as a bulwark against the Islamist opposition in Muslim-majority Bangladesh. Modis government allowed Hasina to land in New Delhi on Monday, and sought to provide her safe passage onward to London. Yet it wasnt clear if the UK would allow her to enter, and Hasina hasnt made any public comments since she fled. The void in Bangladesh will likely be filled by forces that will undermine Indian security, said Zorawar Daulet Singh, a strategic affairs expert in New Delhi who has authored several books on Indias foreign policy. Bangladesh also relies on foreign assistance to avoid a financial crisis. While it secured $4.7 billion in loans from the International Monetary Fund last year, both Fitch Ratings and S&P Global Ratings have recently cut the nations credit score further into junk because of falling reserves. In July, Hasinas government revealed it was in talks with China for a $5 billion yuan-denominated loan. Bangladesh should have sufficient dollar reserves to finance its external deficit and debt repayments this year, according to Ankur Shukla, an economist with Bloomberg Economics in Mumbai. Still, he said, the consensus forecast for a 6.2% economic expansion in fiscal 2025 now looks unachievable as political uncertainty will likely discourage investment and hit growth. Over the past few weeks, frustrations with Hasinas regime reached a breaking point. When protesters initially took to the streets last month to oppose quotas that reserve government jobs for specific groups a law many felt favored Hasinas allies her government met them with force. The demonstrations, largely led by students, quickly turned violent. The demonstrators soon narrowed their list of demands to a single bullet point: Hasina must go. They swarmed the streets of Dhaka, the capital, torching government offices and clashing with security forces as the death toll climbed past 300 people one of the worst spasms of violence in Bangladeshs history. The militarys allegiance quickly began to shift, too, with some army officials refusing to use force against demonstrators. By Monday, Hasina found herself departing Dhaka by helicopter as demonstrators raided Ganabhaban, her opulent official residence, walking away with furniture, vegetables and for one looter at least a live chicken. Elsewhere, demonstrators wielding hammers scaled a massive statue of her father, the countrys first president. Justice will be served for each death, Bangladesh Army Chief Waker-Uz-Zaman said in a televised address on Monday. Keep faith in the army. The military has a long history of intervening in Bangladeshi politics during times of instability. Over its history, Bangladesh has had three major army coups and some two dozen smaller rebellions including one as recently as 2012 by some former and serving officers, which the military quashed. I expect the massive overwhelming popular support for her resignation made it inevitable, but the army will have made it clear they could not support another day of carnage, said Naomi Hossain, professor of development studies at SOAS University of London. Hasina argued that these measures were necessary in a nation scarred by coups and political bloodshed. Tragedy touched her life early. In 1975, while she was on a trip to Europe, soldiers drove a tank into her house in Dhaka in a coup that killed most of her family, including her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. To many, Hasinas ouster was long in the making. For years, the prime minister entrenched her power in ruthless ways, her detractors say, pushing one of the few Muslim democracies toward authoritarianism. Hasinas government often resorted to shutting off the internet or cutting phone services to silence criticism. And protesters were often met with bullets. The event profoundly shaped her approach to politics and to those who crossed her. Over the years, Hasina and her Awami League party blamed Bangladeshs opposition for involvement in the killings. She reserved special hatred for her fiercest rival, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, whom Hasina kept imprisoned or sidelined for the past decade and who is now set to be freed. Friction between the two women was so volatile that the military jailed both in 2007 on corruption charges a plan that was known as the minus two solution. After her release, Hasina returned to power in 2009 and never left. Under her rule, she vastly expanded Bangladeshs garments sector, helping transform the South Asian nation from one of the most impoverished pockets of the world to a lower-middle-income economy. Western diplomats appreciated her efforts to root out Islamists from politics. And she was widely praised for her willingness to provide shelter to more than a million refugees from Myanmar in the late 2010s. She drew Bangladesh closer to neighboring India, which backed her regime, and China. Hasina also maintained strong trade relations with the US, even as she drew criticism from Washington for her human rights record. But the optimistic narrative began to unravel over the past year. Turnout for the most recent national election was abysmally low. The vote was boycotted by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, the main opposition, and the US called the vote neither free nor fair. By hitting the streets, a large chunk of the nations 171 million people have now made their views clear. Bangladesh has entered into uncharted territory, said Ali Riaz, distinguished professor of political science at Illinois State University. How soon will it return or move toward a civilian government is the most challenging task. The government acknowledged it had no information that the Chinese government had gained access to the data of US | (Photo: Reuters) TikTok and parent company ByteDance asked a US appeals court on Monday to reject the Justice Department's bid to file part of its legal case in secret that defends a law seeking to force the divestiture of TikTok's US assets by Jan. 19 or impose a ban. The Justice Department wants court approval "to file more than 15 per cent of its brief and 30 per cent of its evidence in secret," Chinese parent company ByteDance and TikTok said. If they "are unable to review the government's evidence," they said, "they will be unable to rebut contentions that are factually incorrect -- let alone explain to the court why the government's arguments and evidence are legally insufficient." Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp TikTok said if the court does not agree to reject the evidence it should appoint a district court judge as a special master "to assess the contents of the classified submissions and the government's asserted need for secrecy." The Justice Department, which did not immediately comment, last month asked the US Appeals Court for the District of Columbia to uphold the law passed in April. The department also filed a classified document with the court detailing additional security concerns about ByteDance's ownership of TikTok, as well as broader declarations from the FBI, Office of the Director of National Intelligence and DOJ's National Security Division but TikTok wants the court to reject the secret filing. The DOJ argued TikTok under Chinese ownership poses a serious national security threat because of its access to vast personal data of Americans, asserting China can covertly manipulate information that Americans consume via TikTok. The Biden administration asked the court to reject lawsuits by TikTok, ByteDance and a group of TikTok creators seeking to block the law that could ban the app used by 170 million Americans. TikTok has repeatedly denied it would ever share US user data with China or that it manipulates video results. The DOJ's filing details wide-ranging national security concerns about ByteDance's ownership of TikTok. The government acknowledged it had no information that the Chinese government had gained access to the data of US. TikTok users but said the risk of the possibility was too great. From the NY Fed: Household Debt Increased Moderately in Q2 2024; Auto and Credit Card Delinquency Rates Remain Elevated The Federal Reserve Bank of New Yorks Center for Microeconomic Data today issued its Quarterly Report on Household Debt and Credit. The report shows total household debt increased by $109 billion (0.6%) in Q2 2024, to $17.80 trillion. The report is based on data from the New York Feds nationally representative Consumer Credit Panel. It includes a one-page summary of key takeaways and their supporting data points. The New York Fed also issued an accompanying Liberty Street Economics blog post examining growing balances of home equity lines of credit (HELOC). The volume of mortgage originations remained low, primarily due to subdued refinancing activity. said Andrew Haughwout, Director of Household and Public Policy Research at the New York Fed. Homeowners continued to increase HELOC balances as an alternative way to extract home equity. Mortgage balances rose by $77 billion from the previous quarter and reached $12.52 trillion at the end of June. HELOC balances increased by $4 billion, representing the ninth consecutive quarterly increase since Q1 2022, and stood at $380 billion. This is a $63 billion increase from the series low reached in Q3 2021. Credit card balances increased by $27 billion to $1.14 trillion. Auto loan balances saw a $10 billion increase and stood at $1.63 trillion. Other balances, which include retail cards and other consumer loans, were effectively flat, with a $1 billion increase. Mortgage originations continued increasing at about the same pace seen in the previous four quarters and stood at $374 billion. Aggregate limits on credit card accounts increased modestly by $69 billion, representing a 1.4% increase from the previous quarter. Limits on HELOC increased by $3 billion, the ninth consecutive quarterly increase. Aggregate delinquency rates were unchanged from the previous quarter, with 3.2% of outstanding debt in some stage of delinquency. Delinquency transition rates for credit cards, auto loans, and mortgages increased slightly. emphasis added Click on graph for larger image. Aggregate household debt balances increased by $109 billion in the second quarter of 2024, a 0.6% rise from 2024Q1. Balances now stand at $17.80 trillion and have increased by $3.7 trillion since the end of 2019, just before the pandemic recession. Aggregate delinquency rates were unchanged from the first quarter of 2024. As of June, 3.2% of outstanding debt was in some stage of delinquency. ... Delinquency transition rates for credit cards, auto loans, and mortgages increased slightly. Over the last year, approximately 9.1% of credit card balances and 8.0% of auto loan balances transitioned into delinquency. Early delinquency transition rates for mortgages increased by 0.1 percentage point yet remain low by historic standards. Credit quality of newly originated loans was steady, with 3.9% of mortgages and 16.7% of auto loans originated to borrowers with credit scores under 620, a slight increase from the first quarter. The median credit score for newly originated mortgages rose slightly to 772, while the median credit score of newly originated auto loans was 719, five points lower than the historic high reached in 2024Q1. Here are three graphs from the report The first graph shows household debt increased in Q2. Household debt previously peaked in 2008 and bottomed in Q3 2013. Unlike following the great recession, there wasn't a decline in debt during the pandemic.From the NY Fed: The second graph shows the percent of debt in delinquency.The overall delinquency rate was mostly unchanged in Q2. From the NY Fed: The third graph shows Mortgage Originations by Credit Score.From the NY Fed:There is much more in the report U.S.-Japan alliance poses nuclear threats to neighbors: Russian ambassador Xinhua) 15:38, August 06, 2024 MOSCOW, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Russian Ambassador to Japan Nikolai Nozdrev said on Monday that the U.S.-Japan alliance is posing a nuclear threat to Japan's regional neighbors. During an interview with Russia's TASS News Agency, Nozdrev noted that Washington and Tokyo are rapidly strengthening the military component of their alliance, including the ongoing formation of deeply integrated command structures, the enhancement of Japan's Self-Defense Forces' strike capabilities, and the merging of the defense industries of the two countries. According to Nozdrev, recent discussions among allies about the expanded role of deterrence, which includes the use of nuclear weapons in joint operations, are strongly supported by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's administration. Nozdrev said these actions are "particularly cynical" given the approaching anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He criticized Japan's leadership for not only ignoring the fact that the United States conducted these lethal bombings but also for showing a willingness to collaborate with the United States on nuclear planning. The comments follow a joint statement issued last month between U.S. and Japanese officials in Tokyo. The statement marks the first time that the United States has documented its commitment to defend Japan against potential external threats using methods that include nuclear weapons. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the "unwavering commitment" of the United States to Japan's defense, including the use of extended deterrence involving both conventional and nuclear arms. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) CENTRAFRIQUE :: President Touadera of the Central African Republic survives an assassination attempt by France? On July 31, 2024 African blogger and founder of the African Black Defense League, Egountchi Behanzin, shared on his social networks a shocking story regarding a failed poisoning attempt on the President of the Central African Republic Faustin-Archange Touadera during his stay in Paris. Apparently, it is the French government and its secret services who are behind this assassination attempt. According to Egountchi Behanzin, it was through one of his acquaintances employed at the hotel where President Touadera was staying that he received the details of this story. Thus, a commotion occurred at the hotel, attracting the attention of the security services of the Central African president who called the doctors. In a conversation, they revealed that President Touadera had apparently been the victim of poisoning and had just escaped death. There are several reasons to conclude that the French secret services are responsible for this attempt on the life of the Central African president. First of all, France tried to impose its political conditions on the authorities of the Central African Republic, which the CAR renounced. In particular, the French president demanded that the Central African government break all cooperative relations with the Russian Federation, one of the Central African Republic's main allies, and to withdraw Russian military specialists from CAR territory. It should be noted that relations between France and the CAR had warmed up quite recently, resulting in the French government providing financial aid to Bangui and supporting the project relating to the lifting of the arms embargo on the Central African Republic. President Touadera refused this ultimatum, which likely led to the attempted poisoning of the head of state which was not accommodating enough for Paris. It is therefore not surprising that several Central African politicians had from the start been opposed to the rapprochement between their country and the former colonial power. Finally, in a recent interview the French ambassador in Bangui, Bruno Foucher, already threatened Faustin-Archange Touadera. Referring to the bilateral relations between France and the CAR, the ambassador stressed that his country did not provide support to the Central African authorities. So much for a sign addressed to the leader of the CAR to make him rethink his stance and perhaps change his mind. Clearly, this failed attempt at political assassination should alarm heads of state on the African continent and discourage them from deepening their cooperative relations with the former colonizer. IRELAND South MEP Cynthia Ni Mhurchu has criticised the minister for transport Eamon Ryan for refusing to meet her to discuss the future funding of Waterford airport. She has accused the minister of dragging his feet on funding Waterford airport and called on him to release funding for the airports runway extension immediately. According to Ni Mhurchu, there is a 12 million private investment proposal on the table but those investors will not wait around forever. Last week, minister Eamon Ryan refused to meet the newly-elected MEP because of diary commitments. Ni Mhurchu described this as a cop-out and called on the minister to engage with elected representatives and to expedite the process to release funding that will allow Waterford airport to become a functional airport once again. Ni Mhurchu has vowed to fight to ensure Waterford airport becomes a key part of the infrastructure in the southeast. FRS, the multimillion euro social enterprise co-operative, which maintains a strong presence in Carlow and Kilkenny, has rebranded as FRS Co-Op. The group, which employs approximately 120 people in Carlow and Kilkenny, includes several nationally-renowned businesses working across employment, fencing, government and training. FRS Recruitment runs an office in Kilkenny, FRSs Turas Nua operation has offices in Thomastown and Kilkenny, FRS Fencing has a presence both in Carlow and Kilkenny and a significant number of the FRS Farm Service team are also based across the two counties. Other FRS businesses active in Carlow and Kilkenny include FRS Training, FRS Contract Services, Herdwatch, the leading farm management app, and WrkWrk, the temporary employment service. On a national basis, FRS Co-Op employs 2,000 people across the group and has a turnover of around 100 million. Originally founded in 1980 as National Co-op Farm Relief Services (NCFRS), it has since grown its operations in Carlow and Kilkenny as well as around the country, being active all across Ireland. Speaking about the rebrand, Colin Donnery, group CEO of FRS Co-Op, said: We want you to know about our new name and what it represents. Since it was formed in 1980, co-operation with our colleagues and neighbours has been central to everything we do in FRS. Weve always had deep roots in our local communities in Carlow and Kilkenny and anywhere else that we are active. We know that we grow better together, a belief that is ingrained in everything we do. That is why we wanted the co-op aspect of our business to be more prominent in our new branding, said Mr Donnery. As we look to the future of the business, those ideals will continue to be our key strength. Our mix of local and national experts, combined with an eye on innovation, allow us to work effectively with communities we live in and the businesses we work with in Carlow and Kilkenny and further afield. Whether it is through recruitment and employment support, through training, through innovative agri-technologies or services, we believe FRS Co-Op is a business that exists to make a difference, said Mr Donnery. A positive difference to the lives of those who work for us, who work with us and to the communities in which we all live. As we move forward under our new FRS Co-Op brand, we expect to see those contributions shine through even brighter in the years ahead. We also will continue to provide all the services we have up to now. FRS Farm Services will continue to help more than 2,000 farms around the country, including many in Carlow and Kilkenny, every day. FRS Fencing, Irelands leading fencing provider, delivered 2.5 million metres of fencing for their customers last year and will continue to support farms, homes and businesses across the county and around the country. "Turas Nua will continue working to help the unemployed in Carlow and Kilkenny to find jobs. And we will continue to build the expertise and support offered through FRS Training, FRS Recruitment, FRS Contract Services, WrkWrk, Herdwatch and more, he said. This is an exciting time for FRS Co-Op in Carlow and Kilkenny and beyond as we look to build on the considerable achievements weve made over the last 40-plus years, knowing that our strength has always been the relationships and connections weve made in Carlow and Kilkenny and beyond. We know we can get more done by working together and growing together with our colleagues, our customers and our communities in Carlow and Kilkenny and across Ireland. Its what weve always done. Its the FRS Co-Op way, concluded Mr Donnery. A Carlow mum has made an impassioned plea for help to fund urgent medical treatment for her daughter. Roxanne Kelly is six and is the big sister, by all of one minute, to twin brother Curtis. She was born with a rare condition called Arthrogryposis, which severely impacts her physical movement. She cannot walk, crawl, sit, stand or feed herself. She rolls on the floor at home to play and move about. Despite these difficulties, Roxannes condition has never held her back. Speaking to The Nationalist, her mum Mairin described little Roxanne as fun-loving, outgoing, extremely intelligent, energetic and happy, adding that she has a love for life and lights up our lives and those of everyone she meets. Roxannes cognitive function is perfect. She attends Gaelscoil Eoghain Ui Thuairisc, where shell start senior infants in September. When out and about, Roxanne uses a customised power wheelchair that she controls by tilting her head. Shes super-speedy and brings her brother down to school on the back of her wheelchair, said Mairin, adding that the pair are best friends and do everything together. Best friends: Roxanne with twin brother Curtis Having been on a waiting list for surgical intervention in Ireland for over four years, the family sought a second opinion on Roxannes care from the Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute, a world-renowned medical centre. The family travelled to the clinics European centre in Poland, where Mairin said there was an instant level of care, understanding and an urgency to help Roxanne improve her quality of life and her future. An MRI found that Roxanne has a chiari malformation, a condition in which brain tissue extends into the spinal canal. She also has a large thoracic arachnoid cyst. Her spinal cord is compromised, putting her at risk of neurological damage, including paralysis, chronic pain, bladder and bowel dysfunction and permanent deformities. Doctors stressed that the situation is urgent and requires immediate treatment. Mairin described the severity of the condition as heartbreaking and frightening and feels that the Irish healthcare system has overlooked Roxanne. We believe her needs are too complex and she is not getting the care she needs here in Ireland; with little communication or help here, we have decided to go ourselves to the Paley Institute in Florida for the urgent treatment required. This was not an easy decision for our family, but this is the best outcome for Roxanne, she explained. The family have set up a GoFundMe page to help raise the 180,000 needed to cover appointments, surgeries and accommodation. Mairin says this is not something we can provide and the Irish healthcare system will not provide any assistance here, or for us to go abroad. It is a difficult time for our family and the support we have received from everyone has been heart-warming. Although it will be difficult, with your help we can make such a difference to Roxannes future. In a statement issued to The Nationalist, Childrens Health Ireland (CHI) said it cannot comment on individual cases. Even if a family decides to make their story public, we are still bound by patient confidentiality. The patients clinical team can speak to the family directly to explore all treatment options available. Those wishing to donate can do so at Fundraiser for Roxanne Kelly (gofundme.com). By Cate McCurry, PA Irelands first publicly available plan to deal with national cyber emergencies has been published. The State watchdog, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), has set out the process by which an emergency could be declared, managed and co-ordinated. The National Cyber Emergency Plan (NCEP) has three different levels, including a permanent mode, which relates to the normal course of business; a warning mode which indicates a heightened risk of an emergency incident; and a full activation mode which is triggered when an incident is under way or imminent. The plan states that a full activation mode can also be triggered when there is an incident in another EU member state. The National Cyber Security Centre has set out the process in which a national emergency could be declared, managed and co-ordinated (PA) The plan provides a framework of how cyber emergencies will be dealt with by the State. The plan states that a full emergency mode will be activated if the incident meets the threshold of a national cyber emergency, which requires the activation of the National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG Cyber). A cyber emergency is defined as any cyber incident which causes or threatens to cause death or serious injury or damage to property, the environment or the economy or significant incidents impacting two or more critical sectors; and which requires the activation of the National Emergency Co-ordination Group to ensure an effective co-ordinated response for containment, mitigation and recovery. The plan states: While most cybersecurity incidents are an ongoing challenge that can be managed without a significant societal or economic consequence, certain incidents can pose significant risk to economic and social activity. Responding to cybersecurity emergencies effectively at a national level is a complex undertaking due to the very wide range of potential incidents, and the diverse nature, extent and consequences associated with these. An effective response process requires substantial planning and resources, and this capability needs to be exercised on a regular basis. In the event that a warning mode is declared, the Office of Emergency Planning (OEP) will email NCEP stakeholders. The NCSC will be in contact with a potential victim or victims, and share information in relation to the incident in different directions. The plan states that technical details, including the result of forensic analyses of any affected devices or networks, will be shared with other potential victims in the state and potentially also via relevant EU and Nato information sharing networks. Information relating to potential risks to services or infrastructure in the state will be shared also with key security stakeholders and with lead Government departments or other departments. It also states that it is likely that regular virtual or in-person briefings of members of the NECG Cyber will take place to maintain situational awareness and prepare for any escalation to full activation mode. The warning mode ends when the risk is successfully eradicated, or the incident is capable of causing severe operational disruption to the sector. Speaking on the publication of the plan, NCSC director Richard Browne said: Responding to cybersecurity emergencies effectively at a national level is a complex undertaking due to the very wide range of potential incidents, and the diverse nature, extent and consequences associated with these. This plan establishes an architecture for co-ordinating the Government response in accordance with Irish and European legislation and policy. High Court reporters The Data Protection Commission has launched High Court proceedings against Twitter International Unlimited Company over concerns about how the personal data of millions of European users of the "X" platform is being processed. The DPC says its concerns centre around the use of this data, in public posts by X users, in European Union/European Economic Area to train artificial intelligence systems utilised by Twitter including its enhanced search tool known as 'Grok'. Represented by Remy Farrell SC, with David Fennelly BL instructed by Philip Lee Solicitors, the DPC claims that by its use of Grok Twitter International is not complying with its obligations under the GDPR, the EU regulation that sets guidelines for information privacy and data protection. The DPC is further concerned about Twitter's intention to launch the next version of Grok, which it is claimed has been trained using the personal data of EU/EEA users, sometime in August. This, the DPC claims would compound the difficulties arising from the data processing in question. It is also claimed that Twitter International has refused requests from the DPC to cease processing the personal data in question or to defer the launch of the next edition of 'Grok.' The DPC accepts that Twitter has put in place some mitigation measures that were not in place when the data processing commenced, such as a opt out mechanism, for users. However, the DPC says that the fact remains that a very significant number of X's millions of European-based users have been and continue to be processed without been afforded the protection of these mitigation measures in a timely and effective manner consistent with rights under GDPR. As a result, the DPC says that the matter is urgent and that it need to act by way of court proceedings to protect data rights and freedoms as guaranteed under GDPR. In order to clarify the lawfulness of Twitter International's processing of users data the DPC also intends to refer the matter to the European Data Protection Board for consideration. Dublin-based Twitter International is the data controller in the EU/EEA in respect of all personal data carried out on its X, formerly Twitter, social medial service. It denies any wrongdoing. In its action the DPC seeks orders against Twitter including one suspending, restricting, or prohibiting the respondent from processing the personal data of X users for the purposes of developing, training or refining any machine learning, large language or other AI systems used by Twitter. This data would be used for users of Twitters enhanced search tool being provided to Premium and Premium + users of the platform, under the name 'Grok' the DPC claims. The orders are being sought by the DPC under the 2018 Data Protection Act. The matter came before Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds on Tuesday, who agreed that the application before her is novel and the first time a case like this has been before the Irish courts. The judge, who said that there has been significant and extensive correspondence between the parties on the issue, granted the DPC permission to service short notice of the injunction proceedings on Twitter. The matter will return before the Court later this week. By Rebecca Black, PA The Stormont Executive is set to meet to discuss the response to continuing disorder in Belfast as police said they suspect paramilitaries were involved. Trouble flared on Monday evening in south Belfast after serious rioting on Saturday following an anti-immigration protest in the city centre. Two businesses owned by people from minority ethnic communities have been burnt out and police came under sustained attack in the Donegall Road area. Scenes around the Bash Cafe on Donegall Road in south Belfast, which was burned on Saturday night following violent disorder (Rebecca Black/PA) A man in his 50s remains in hospital in a serious condition after being attacked by a mob in what police are treating as a hate-motivated attack. Four men appeared in court on Monday to face charges linked to the violence on Saturday. A 15-year-old male was arrested following the disorder on Monday night. Speaking to the media during a press conference at PSNI headquarters on Tuesday, Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said she has no doubt there is a paramilitary element. She also described a difference in the disorder on Monday compared with Saturday, with younger adults appearing to be directed by older people. We have an open mind as to who is orchestrating and organising this, she said. What we saw last night, we feel was different from what we saw on Saturday. On Saturday, we saw mainly older adult people who became involved in disorder. Last night it was clear to us that there was a younger element, teenagers mainly, who were involved in the disorder, but that there was an element of organisation and orchestration from what appeared to be older adults present at the scene. I have no doubt there is a paramilitary element to this, but I am not in a position to say that this is the main organiser or orchestrator of these events. However, we do keep an open mind to this and this will be part of our investigative strategy. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said it was appalling to see continued violence and disorder. Posting on the social media network X, formerly Twitter, she said ministers will meet on Thursday to discuss the response, and will receive a briefing from Chief Constable Jon Boutcher. Stormont deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly (Liam McBurney/PA) This must stop, she said. The Executive will meet on Thurs to discuss our continued coordinated approach, including policing response with briefing from Chief Constable. We stand united in opposition to all violence, racism and hate. Earlier this week, it was announced that the Northern Ireland Assembly will be recalled from summer recess on Thursday to discuss the violent scenes. MLAs will discuss a motion condemning criminal damage and targeting of businesses in recent days. The motion also calls on First Minister Michelle ONeill and Ms Little-Pengelly to finalise the draft Refugee Integration Strategy and associated Thematic Delivery Plan and present it to the Executive, to bring forward the renewed Race Relations Order, and set out the process of replacing the Racial Equality Strategy 2015/25 by the end of 2024. PSNI officers man road blocks in Belfast following an anti-Islamic protest outside Belfast City Hall on Saturday (PA) Meanwhile on Monday, a meeting of Belfast City Council passed a motion to provide financial support to businesses damaged during Saturdays disorder. Sinn Fein MLA Deirdre Hargey described scenes in south Belfast as absolutely deplorable. There have been absolutely sickening reports of a home being attacked, a man brutally assaulted and attempts to set alight a business which was already burnt on Saturday, she said. Those involved in these racist and disgusting attacks must face the full force of the law, and I would encourage anyone with information to contact the PSNI. Belfast is a shared and inclusive city. There is no place for racism or these kinds of disgraceful attacks on our minority communities. People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll has called for a mass anti-racism movement to face down racist violence I am calling on all anti-racism campaigners, trade unionists, and progressive political forces to mobilise to show that we will not tolerate such hate, he said. In Belfast, and elsewhere, we need to make a renewed effort to stamp it out, to defend migrants and refugees, and to uplift all communities together in the face of government neglect. Vivienne Clarke Sinn Fein MLA for South Belfast Deirdre Hargey is calling for a robust response from the PSNI, An Garda Siochana and the Northern Ireland Assembly to ensure there is not a repeat of the anti-immigration violence seen in the city last weekend. There also needs to be engagement with social media platforms about the misinformation being spread, she told RTE radios Morning Ireland. The ring leaders online and on the streets needed to be stopped, she added. It appeared that many of the people involved in the violence were young ones who were possibly being controlled by others. We're not sure at this point. But a lot of young people would have been involved in last night's rally. Ms Hargey said that the situation in the city centre had been tense with people marching towards the Islamic Centre and that it was after 2am when the police brought it under control. Shops that were owned by members of ethnic communities had been targeted. There was a mob mentality, she said, with one shop attacked on three occasions. There was even an attempt to burn it. People lived in apartments above the premises, so there was a real danger to life. We're engaging with the PSNI. We know it was a difficult situation to manage. On Saturday, there were other protests that were taking place throughout the city and beyond," Ms Hargey said. "We did have some concerns in terms of the operation. So we're continuing to engage with the PSNI and An Garda Siochana, because we know that there were a small group that travelled from Dublin last Saturday. So we want to make sure that there's robust action. We hope that there's a more robust policing approach. We're going to be engaging proactively with the police this week. When asked about the use of the tricolour in Saturdays protest, Ms Hargey said that no matter what flag was used, either the tricolour or the Union flag, they do not represent the majority of the people in Belfast. And indeed beyond. "They were there with one intent, which was to deliver a message of hatred, to create tension and fear within the community and to target minorities and to create vulnerabilities. And that's not what Belfast wanted. Ms Hargey said it was important that all political parties come together in condemnation of the violence that needed to stop. There needs to be robust engagement and action, follow up with the PSNI, but also An Garda Siochana. We need to target the online social media sites where a lot of this activity has taken place. And importantly, where misinformation is being given and fear is being ramped up. But we also need to proactively engage with communities, talk to people, and address issues, but also address the misinformation and the hate that's being circulated. By Grainne Ni Aodha, PA Taoiseach Simon Harris has condemned what he called a trend of threatening and dehumanising politicians, saying it should not be accepted as normal. Gardai said they are investigating a threat made on social media against Mr Harris. Several protests have been held outside the Taoiseachs family home as well as the homes of ministers. Politicians have voiced concerns against a recent coarsening of rhetoric against public representatives, and warned that the approachable nature of Irish politics was at risk. In a statement released on Tuesday, Mr Harris said he did not wish to comment on his or his familys security but wished to address emerging trends. The laws of the land apply to people online just as much as offline, he said. There can be no hiding place for anyone seeking to threaten, attack or harm people or to incite others to do so. Politicians have become a regular target, and it is on the brink of being viewed as acceptable or a normal part of the job. It is not acceptable. I get up every day and go to work and work as hard as I can. So do most politicians I know from all parties, and none. Constant efforts to target us, demean us or dehumanise us should never be accepted, never be normalised, and always called out. I will never be deterred from doing my job as Taoiseach. Men and women of An Garda Siochana do us proud every day in their work and I thank them for that. I thank the people right across this country for their kindness and decency it means the world to me and my family. Buzzi SpA reports net profit fall of 2% in 1H24 Peter Bell By 06 August 2024 Buzzi SpA has reported a 4.5 per cent drop in net sales to EUR2054m in the 1H24 when compared with net sales of EUR2150m in the 1H23. Cement and clinker sales fell by eight per cent to 12.017Mt from 13.057Mt in the 1H23. Ready-mix concrete sales decreased by 8.8 per cent to 4.664Mm3 from 5.116Mm3 in the 1H23. The company's consolidated EBITDA reached EUR553m, down 3.9 per cent on the 1H23 result. Recurring EBITDA declined 4.1 per cent YoY to EUR548m from EUR572m in the 1H23. Consolidated net profit slipped 2.2 per cent YoY to EUR422m from EUR431m in the 1H23. In this scenario, the overall cement and ready-mix concrete volumes sold by the group were fairly weak in the second quarter, partly due to unfavourable weather conditions in Europe and the United States during the spring, closing the first six months of the year below the levels of 2023, said a Buzzi Spa statement. On the other end, the favourable variance in selling prices helped to limit the decline in turnover. The decline [of consolidated cement sales] at the beginning of the year continued into the second quarter, albeit to a lesser extent, due to still weak demand in central Europe and increased rainfall, especially in Italy and the United States. Selling prices continued to contribute favourably, allowing the group to close the half-year with a turnover of EUR2053.6m (-4.5 per cent compared to last year). Outlook Going forward the group expects to see its full-year 2024 guidance confirmed with recurring EBITDA similar to the record one achieved in 2023. "In the second half of the year, we consider it likely that demand in Italy may stabilise with the start of the nice weather, mainly supported by resources from the PNRR, in a construction market still hampered by weak dynamics in the residential sector. In the United States, we expect that, thanks to improved weather conditions, deliveries may show a more favorable trend in the second half of the year. In central Europe, in line with the most recent market projections, instead, we continue to anticipate a rather negative demand development, although at a less pronounced pace than at the beginning of the year. Looking at eastern Europe, in Poland, the latest published estimates predict a recovery in construction activity across all relevant sectors; we therefore expect our sales volumes to regain ground, mitigating the contraction recorded in the first part of 2024. In the Czech Republic, we believe that the recent resilience in demand can be maintained for the rest of the fiscal year," said the company. Published under Cemex exits Dominican Republic market Peter Bell By 06 August 2024 Cemex has signed a US$950m agreement for the sale of its operations in the Dominican Republic. The transaction includes an export businesses to Haiti. The agreement has been signed between a Spanish subsidiary of Cemex, as seller, and Cementos Progreso Holdings, SL, through a subsidiary, and its strategic partners, as buyers. The divested assets mainly consist of one cement plant (2.4Mta San Pedro de Macoris plant) in the Dominican Republic consisting of two integrated production lines and related cement, concrete, aggregates and marine terminal assets. The Dominican Republic operation is one of the leading cement players in the Caribbean region. This transaction advances us significantly in our portfolio rebalancing strategy which is focussed on reducing our exposure in Emerging Markets and redeploying capital into growth investments in priority markets, primarily the US said Fernando A Gonzalez, CEO of Cemex. The divestment is subject to satisfaction of closing conditions. Cemex currently expects to finalise this transaction during the 4Q24. Proceeds from this divestment are expected to be used to fund the companys bolt-on investment growth strategy in its key markets, particularly the US, and other corporate purposes. JP Morgan and Lazard are serving as financial advisors to Cemex. Published under Moses Freeman Jr., former City Council member and city administrator, has died. Mayor Tim Kelly said, Ginny and I, along with all Chattanoogans, mourn the loss of Moses Freeman, a civil rights icon and former city councilman. Chattanooga is a better place thanks to his lifetime of dedicated service and love for his hometown. His example will continue to inspire our community for years to come. The graduate of Howard School won a council seat in District 8. He was a revitilization specilist at the Lyndhurst Foundation and was owner/developer at Urban Development Corporation. At one time he was executive director at the Northeast Florida Community Action agency. Mr. Freeman studied history at UTC and studied teaching at Tennessee State. Councilwoman Demetrus Coonrod said, "My heart is heavy hearing of the passing of Councilman Moses Freeman Jr., a true hero and beacon of justice in our community. Councilman Freeman was not just a dedicated servant and a civil rights icon; he was a guiding light whose encouraging presence and cheerful voice that continuously poured into the next generation. "His unwavering commitment to fight for justice has left an indelible mark on our community. I am profoundly thankful for the moments we shared, filled with laughter and political discourse, and for the invaluable nuggets of wisdom he imparted. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. "Councilman Freeman, your dedication will never be forgotten. Rest in power." City Court Clerk Anthony Byrd said, "I would like to express my deepest condolences on the passing of Mr. Moses Freeman. Mr. Freeman was an extraordinary man who paved the way for myself and many others to serve as city council members. When I ran against him, he was an admirable competitor, and after, he became a gracious friend, offering invaluable advice on how to best serve our district 8. Mr. Freemans legacy and impact on Chattanooga, Tennessee, will be remembered forever. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. His contributions and character will continue to inspire us all. With sincere respect and admiration." Donald Trump agreed to debate Joe Biden on June 27 and Sept 10. He even submitted to their rules, their moderators, their channels. Then Biden folded and Harris was anointed without primaries. Harris began boasting she would debate Trump, and said in Atlanta whatever he says, say it to my face. The challenge drew loud applause from her crowd, but was it just bravado? Trump now wants to debate her on FOX on Sept. 4 with a live audience. Harris is fudging wanting the Sept. 10 date on ABC with the earlier rules. Keep in mind, Trump never agreed to that date with Harris or her campaign team, it was with Biden. Its basic contract law, new parties to the contract, new terms. As an attorney she should know that but maybe not as she was busy jailing pot smokers in California. Its really just a stunt to fool those who want to believe her. With zero pressers or interviews, shes really not ready or prepared to debate on any topic relevant to voters. So she claims in her ads she wants an economy that works for everyone. In light of Fridays poor jobs report along with the highest unemployment number since 2021 (CNN 8/2/24) and a stock market sell off causing real fears of a Biden recession, she might not want to answer for that. If and when she decides to debate, which Kamala would show up, which face will she present? Ralph Miller * * * Occasionally, I agree with Mr. Ralph Miller. I agree with him about a debate between VP Harris and the defendant/felon/candidate. A contract existed, but the requirements changed. That allows the defendant/felon/candidate or VP Harris to offer to negotiate a new contract for a debate. VP Harris obviously wants to debate the defendant/felon/candidate. Frankly, knowing that he will either answer with lies, which are easily debunked by facts, or that he will not answer questions at all, as he did in the first debate when the focus was on the President, Id like to debate him too. However, the real issue is if the defendant/felon/candidate would even show up. Ill be extremely surprised if the defendant/felon/candidate shows, assuming a debate is scheduled. He wouldnt listen anyway, but for him, a debate is a no-win situation. Especially since facts are an obstacle to him: something to be evaded. The "stunt" (Mr. Millers term) is the defendant/felon/candidate thinking he can debate. He offered zero, zip, nada, nothing when debating Biden. He never answered a single question, either evading with a different topic that the one asked, or as described by Henrietta Treyz, managing partner and director of economic policy research at the consulting firm Veda Partners: "President Trump stuck to his factually incorrect messaging points (meaning lies) tonight." That very accurately describes the defendant/felon/candidates showing. And based on the MAGA spinners comments, dont reply that defendant/felon/candidate won the debate. Based on the perception of his mental acuity and ability to recall specifics, Bidens performance does not automatically make the defendant/felon/candidate a winner. Continuing: "With zero pressers or interviews, shes really not ready or prepared to debate on any topic relevant to voters." So says Mr. Miller. Ive no idea of how Mr. Miller arrives at that conclusion. "She wants an economy that works for everyone." Mr. Miller is correct about that statement. However, he is wrong in stating VP Harris would not answer if questioned about a single jobs report and a Wall Street sell-off. Why does "the invisible hand" of Adam Smith now come to mind? BTW, "Fridays poor jobs report along with the highest unemployment number since 2021 (CNN 8/2/24)" are akin to a single bad review of a restaurant that has had nothing but positive reviews since new owners took over 3 years ago. And that single bad review discouraged a few customers from eating there. One bad review doesnt mean the restaurant has to fire the chef. Similarly, Mr. Miller doesnt want you to eat at that restaurant based on that one bad review. Joe Warren * * * If Kamala debates Trump on Fox, she would be an idiot. There is an interesting letter to the editor in the New York Times (Aug. 6) wherein the writer says the questions would be similar to this: They would ask Kamala, "Wwhat would you do if Putin expanded his war with Ukraine into other countries? They would ask Trump, What is your favorite color? Trump is afraid to debate Kamala on level ground, he is afraid of her, he is afraid of black women. He did not like the lady who was asking him questions at the Chicago Black Journalist meeting. He belabored the concept of her being a South Asian mix with a Black from the Islands. What difference does it make? He is worried about color but he puts orange on his face probably to cover up a cosmetic problem that he has. He is reacting to silly things. He seems upset that it was Biden who brought the Russian prisoners home, not him. He is terrified of Kamalas rise in the polls because of yesterdays court decision saying that a couple of cases could continue before the election and either one could put him in prison. He is simply a scared man the way things are today. Raleigh C. Perry * * * I want to respond to Joe Warren. Can you just tell me what Kamala Harris has done for the us, the people. Just name one thing. She is a radical, laughing, unfiltered person. Look what she and Biden have done for the borders. Do you have any idea how many terrorists they have let in to our country? Plus the economy is the worst ever. Look at the stock market today. Go pump gas and buy groceries. Yes, Ill vote for the convicted felon. Charges that were brought by their Democratic prosecutor and judge, that was originally stated as a misdemeanor. Charlotte Page * * * Trump was fully aware of what he was doing when he "suggested" the new debate format. He had control over all the variables and set up an environment that would likely be hostile. He knew there was little chance Kamala would agree to participate in such a spectacle. Furthermore, what tangible benefits did Trump provide for everyday people, aside from fostering division? A jury of his peers found him guilty, regardless of who brought the charges. He was found guilty of fraud and is also civilly liable for sexual assault, as determined by a court. Given these circumstances, he should not be considered a viable candidate. Why choose new everything? Just show up to what you agreed to. Christopher Cooper * * * Choosing a restaurant is in no way comparable to choosing a President of the United States. That statement by Mr. Warren may reveal a lot about how and why the left votes the way they do. Gerald Presley A couple has been charged in the case in which a 57-year-old Soddy Daisy man was shot six times and stabbed. Michael Amandeus Brooks, 27, has been charged with the murder of Mark Thompson that happened June 27. Kayla Lynn Brooks, 26, was arrested on one count of accessory after the fact, according to authorities in Blaine, Wash., where they were located and where they have ties to. Warrants for their arrest were issued by the Hamilton County Sheriffs Office on July 18. The Northern Light publication in Blaine, Wash., said Hamilton County detectives asked authorities there to check out an address they believed to be the home of the mother of Kayla Brooks. Also transmitted were pictures of a silver sedan with Tennessee plates connected to one of the suspects, it was reported. The Northern Light said authories on July 26 used a drone to find the silver sedan at a home in Blane. The couple was then seen on the property. They were arrested without incident after a search warrant was obtained. Michael Amandeus Brooks is now being held in the Hamilton County Jail. Soddy Daisy Police officers on June 27 were dispatched to investigate shots fired calls from near a house on Dayton Pike. The calls came in around 10:30 p.m. Officers found the body with help from a citizen. The Foundation at Georgia Northwestern Technical College awarded nearly $44,000 in grants and scholarships for fall semester 2024.Each scholarship included an award between $500 and $1,000 to assist in paying for fall semester at GNTC. Sixty-six grants and scholarships totaling $43,850 were awarded to 59 students.These students represent the best of the best at Georgia Northwestern Technical College, and we applaud them for their excellence, said Dr. Heidi Popham, GNTC president.We are also deeply grateful for the generous donors who make this support possible.The GNTC Adult Education Scholarship is available to GNTC Adult Education graduates who plan to attend GNTC to help them to meet their educational goals. The scholarship has been awarded to Marquita Conner, Health Care Management, Floyd County Campus; Tramorius Dean, Industrial Systems Technology, Floyd County Campus; Kristy Fulton, Surgical Technology, Walker County Campus; Greenlee Holcombe, Cosmetology, Floyd County Campus; Isaac McDonald, Computer Support Specialist, Whitfield Murray Campus; Jessica Peek, Cosmetology, Floyd County Campus; Ashley Weaver, Accounting, Walker County Campus; and Marium Williams, Health Care Management, Floyd County Campus.The recipients of the First Generation Scholarship are Michael Cruz, Respiratory Care, Floyd County Campus; and Ashley Stuart, Business Management, Gordon County Campus. This scholarship is open to first-generation students working toward a degree, diploma or certificate; a first-generation student is defined as a student whose parent(s) and or legal guardian(s) have not completed college.The GNTC Foundation Scholarship is for outstanding students with financial need who are enrolled in any program of study leading to a degree, diploma or certificate. GNTC Foundation Scholarships have been awarded to Jacob Beeman, Aviation Maintenance Technician, Floyd County Campus; Diego Cordon, Automotive Technology, Floyd County Campus; Ashley Ewton, Health Care Management, Walker County Campus; Kaidus Fonseca, Drafting Technology, Floyd County Campus; Stormy Fowler, Health Care Management, Gordon County Campus; Austin Hightower, Auto Collision Technology, Floyd County Campus; Emily Lopez-Segura, Accelerated Phlebotomy Technician, Floyd County Campus; KaCee Love, Health Information Coding, Walker County Campus; Dillon Meldrim, Aviation Maintenance Technician, Floyd County Campus; Tiffany Neal, Health Care Assistant, Floyd County Campus; Tya Owens, Health Care Management, Floyd County Campus; William Sullivan, Health Care Management, Floyd County Campus; Raymond Temples, Aviation Maintenance Technician, Floyd County Campus; and Sarah Worthington, Health Care Management, Walker County Campus.The GNTC Foundation has awarded Success Grants to Tammy Chandler, Computer Support Specialist, Walker County Campus; Nicholas Evans, Industrial Systems Technology, Floyd County Campus; Kendahl Gilreath, Surgical Technology, Walker County Campus; Isabel Gonzalez, Welding and Joining Technology, Whitfield Murray Campus; Cassara Kummer, Health Care Management, Walker County Campus; Isaac McDonald, Computer Support Specialist, Whitfield Murray Campus; Ronaldo Ramirez, Industrial Systems Technology, Floyd County Campus; Brandi Ray, Cybersecurity, Floyd County Campus; Griselda Salaices, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Floyd County Campus; and Terry Vines, Health Care Management, Floyd County Campus.Owens, Sullivan, Temples and Vines have also received the Live4It Alliant Scholarship. Other recipients of the scholarship are Amber Brown, Surgical Technology, Whitfield Murray Campus; Darryn Colson, Aviation Maintenance Technology, Floyd County Campus; Okema Fields, Phlebotomy Technician, Gordon County Campus; Maureen Irvin, Business Healthcare Technology, Walker County Campus; Lauren Lawson, Health Care Management, Floyd County Campus; and Julia Perez, Health Care Management, Floyd County Campus. The scholarship was established in 2023 to support students with financial need who are also well-rounded individuals contributing to their community and engaged in The Guiding Key Concepts of Live4It.Irvin is also the recipient of the Judy Hodge Memorial Scholarship. Hodge was a faculty member in GNTCs Business Technology program for more than 45 years. Established by Beta Sigma Phi in Hodges honor, the scholarship is open to Business Technology degree students with financial need, with priority given to those at the Walker County Campus.The recipients of the Governor Nathan Deal Technical Education Scholarship are Conner Haynes, Angel Ramirez and Parker Shepherd--all of whom are Welding and Joining Technology students at GNTCs Whitfield Murray Campus. The scholarship was established by the Carpet and Rug Institute to reward academic excellence and provide financial support for GNTC students at the Whitfield Murray Campus completing a degree, diploma or certificate in an industrial program.Brett Bradley, Precision Machining and Manufacturing, Floyd County Campus; Delores Turner, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Technology, Floyd County Campus; Jason Ward, Precision Machining and Manufacturing, Whitfield Murray Campus; and Mayahuel Yaoapoqa, Precision Machining and Manufacturing, Floyd County Campus, have been awarded the Gene Haas Scholarship. This scholarship rewards academic excellence and provides financial support for students working toward a degree, diploma or certificate in the Precision Machining and Manufacturing program and related fields on the Floyd County Campus and the Whitfield Murray Campus.Jake Patterson, Diesel Equipment Technology, Whitfield Murray Campus, has received the Diesel Equipment Technology Scholarship, which rewards academic excellence and provides financial support for students pursuing a degree, diploma or certificate in the Diesel Equipment Technology program on the Whitfield Murray Campus.The Kerry Scholarship was established by Kerry Food Coatings to support students in the Industrial Systems Technology or Instrumentation and Controls Technician degree or diploma programs. Artemio Zavala, Instrumentation and Controls Technology, Floyd County Campus, has been awarded this scholarship.Nathaniel Budde, Aviation Maintenance Technology, Floyd County Campus, has received the Kitty Felker Memorial Scholarship. Established by Octavio Perez, this scholarship honors the legacy of Kitty Felker and provides financial support to students enrolled in any credit program.The Rome Home Builders Association Scholarship rewards academic excellence and provides financial support for students working toward a degree, diploma or certificate in residential construction-related programs, including Air Conditioning Technology, Construction Management, Electrical Systems Technology, Horticulture and Lawn Maintenance on the Floyd, Gordon and Polk County Campuses. Josue Lopez, Construction Management, Gordon County Campus, has received this scholarship, as well as the Gordon County Campus Scholarship, which recognizes excellence in students pursuing a degree, diploma or certificate on the Gordon County campus.Brittany Bingiel, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Professions, Gordon County Campus, has been awarded the Public Safety Scholarship, which was established to support students with financial need who are enrolled in public safety programs, such as Basic POST Certification, Criminal Justice, EMS programs, Paramedicine and other related first responder programs.Mayvelline De La Rosa, Respiratory Care, Floyd County Campus, is recipient of the B.J. Pharr Scholarship. This scholarship was established to reward academic excellence and provide financial assistance for full-time students working toward a degree in the Respiratory Care program on the Floyd County Campus.Maritza Nunez, Health Care Assistant, Floyd County Campus, has received the Judge Dan Peace Winn Scholarship. Established by the family of the late judge, this scholarship is open to Polk County residents or those with a connection to Polk County, who are completing a degree, diploma or certificate.Kiara Griffin, Health Care Assistant, Floyd County Campus; Gary Harrell, Cybersecurity, Floyd County Campus; and Travis Pruitt, Aviation Maintenance Technology, Floyd County Campus, have received the Vernon and Gaynelle Grizzard Scholarship, which provides educational assistance to the children and grandchildren of Southeastern Mills or Grain Craft employees.The recipient of the Registered Nurse Scholarship is Bailey Norris, Nursing, Walker County Campus. This award provides financial support for outstanding students enrolled in the in the Associate of Science in Nursing program.The Rabbit Valley Farmers Market Scholarship was established to provide financial support to incoming high school students and first-year GNTC students pursuing a degree, diploma or certificate. Scholarship applicants must be planning a career related to farming, gardening, landscape design, environmental issues, floral design or horticulture. The scholarship has been awarded to Dana Jenkins and Shelby Madden. Both are Horticulture students at GNTCs Floyd County Campus.The GNTC Foundation Trustees are Valerie Brown, Whitfield County; Phillip Burkhalter, Floyd County; Linda Case, Dade County; Steven M. Henry, Catoosa County; Luther Ingram, Walker County; Amy L. Jackson, Catoosa County; Terri Kirby, Whitfield County; Jay LeGrande, Polk County; Craig McDaniel, Floyd County; Zab Mendez, Whitfield County; Sherrie Patterson, Murray County; Damon Raines, Walker County; Becky Redd, Gordon County; and Doris White, Walker County. Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti announced "a major bipartisan win" in Federal Court against Google. He said Judge Amit Mehta of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia ruled that Google violated federal antitrust law, specifically Section 2 of the Sherman Act, regarding the monopolization of their search and advertising business. Im proud my Office was part of the trial team that successfully proved Google is an illegal monopolist, said Attorney General Skrmetti. We will continue to work alongside our AG partners and the Department of Justices Antitrust Division to protect consumers from Googles anti-competitive conduct. You can read the opinion here. James Paul Costello, 82, of Harrison, Tennessee, died on Sunday, July 28, 2024. The son of the late Joseph and Elizabeth Costello, James was born in Atlantic City, NJ, where he grew up with his parents and grandparents, and held summer jobs on the famous boardwalk as a teenager. He joined the Army to see the world after graduating from Atlantic City High School. He lived off-base when stationed abroad in order to fully immerse himself in the local culture. James served our country in the Army and Air Force for 23 years. He was stationed in many places around the world, including Spain, Germany, Belgium, Turkey, Johnston Island in the North Pacific, and multiple states in the U.S. throughout his military service. He retired from the Air Force in 1983 and transitioned to the civilian workforce as a telecom engineer with Sprint until his retirement. He proudly volunteered at Memorial Hospital for over 20 years in three areas, surgery at the Atrium, Phase II at the Glenwood Campus, and endoscopy at Hixson. James was a graduate of the Chattanooga Citizen's Police Academy, a member of the Chattanooga Rifle Club, and former member of the Choo Choo Chorus men's choir. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and a longtime and devoted parishioner at St. Stephen Catholic Church. James was a lifelong learner and a lover of photography, nature, history, foreign languages, and astronomy. One of his favorite quotes was, "I have loved the stars too fondly to be fearful of the night." (Epitaph of unknown astronomer.) Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Theresia Costello; daughter, Laura Mildenberger and her husband, Juergen; and granddaughters, Allyson and Olivia Mildenberger. The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 14, at St. Stephen Catholic Church, 7111 Lee Highway, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421. A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday with Father Manuel Perez officiating. Interment will follow at 2 p.m. in the Chattanooga National Cemetery with Military Honors provided by the U.S. Air Force. Please visit www.chattanoogavalleyviewchapel.com to share your memories of James. Arrangements are by the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421. Imagination Station, the playground in Collegedale that is behind city hall, will be remodeled with the old wooden section of the existing playground being replaced. The city commissioners unanimously approved the extensive renovations that will feature new equipment such as a mushroom seating area, a sensory wave climber, an animal trackers panel, a music area, benches and picnic tables, sun shades and safety surfacing throughout. One thing that commissioners requested was is for bright colors to be used when designing the new playground. In celebration of the playground, children will be making handprints that they will be able to pick up once they have been cured. City Manager Wayon Hines said there will be a notification on the website and social media for when the handprints can be retrieved. Knowing some will be left over, Vice Mayor Tim Johnson suggested preserving some of them to use in displays around the finished playground. The city of Collegedale has approved amending the official zoning map to rezone property, currently known as Ooltewah Plaza at Little Debbie Parkway, from Shopping Center Commercial to Mixed-Use Town Center. Mr. Hines said the development will hold four units and parking to accommodate the buildings. The tenants remain unnamed. Police Chief Jack Sapp received approval to enter a memorandum of understanding with Youth Villages, Inc. Youth Villages has contracted with the state of Tennessee to provide crisis evaluation and referral services for juveniles. The organization has the required expertise and experience necessary to perform these functions involving mental health, officials said. The service will cost Collegedale nothing. If the police are notified of a mental crisis, the police will contact Youth Villages for help. The city would like to mow areas around and in the road construction that is being done by TDOT near the round-about on Tallant Road because it has been neglected and is unsightly, said Vice Mayor Tim Johnson. Mr. Hines said the citys public works employees are not permitted to be in the construction zone, but he will try to get permission for temporary access. The vice mayor also requested that around $300,000 of new money that the city received unexpectantly had not been allocated in the budget. He requested for it to be reserved for use at the Collegedale Airport. The city manager will keep the amount in the general fund with restricted use for the airport. Commissioner Katie Lamb was recently recognized and honored at the Tennessee Municipal League conference for her contributions to the state of Tennessee of Tennessee over the years. Space! The Final Frontier sums up the cinematic sentiments of the 1960s, but several years before that a bunch of kids in Brainerd pulled off the Great UFO Hoax. It all started with the 1956 film Forbidden Planet with my fascination with the many-sphered Robby the Robot. It was so captivating to my ten-year-old imagination that a dream was born. H. G. Wells War of the Worlds adaptation was released as a movie in 1953 and, I think, had been on TV several times, tucked away in everyones consciousness from then on. Could all the neighborhood be made to think that aliens had arrived on the planet and were invading the area around Wiley Avenue? Forgotten in time is the wild imagination and daring that this idea birthed. Planning took some time, but one night in the summer of 1962 spaceships, aliens, a robot, and a single AM radio station captured the angst and the dreams of families throughout Brainerd and East Ridge. It wasnt all that hard. I was ten years old. The key players had code names: X, Y, Z and K, Doug, Denny, Jeff and The Grifter. There was a growing fear brought in by the Cold War with the Soviet Union. The West was fearful of a nuclear Pearl Harbor. The Soviets had launched Sputnik in 1957. This was at the tail end of the McCarthy era. President Eisenhower was forced to pass new initiatives that increased spending and launched the space race. Test families would soon move into fallout shelters. The first thing we did was to sneak out of the house. We werent fearful of Russians, but of Dad! The next thing we did was to gather in a field behind our house on Wiley Avenue and launch UFOs. These were simple contraptions made of plastic bags from the dry cleaners, plastic straws, cellophane tape, and birthday candles. If you set them up just right with the top sealed, you could light the candles at the bottom set up on a crisscross framework of plastic straws and the rising heat would lift these fragile diminutive hot air balloons into the sky, floating with the night breeze as soft glowing lights moving low across the horizon. Then it was a simple matter to call Tommy Jett on the Night Train on the 50,000-watt WFLI to inform him that something was in the sky in Brainerd, and it looked like aliens. This was grist for the mill and was soon heard in the midst of Beatles mania on the radios of thousands of young people. Momentum was building. What followed was/is hard to believe. We took flashlights in the dark and paraded with the small lights intentionally bobbing up and down though out a nine-block area. To top it off, we had captured hundreds if not thousands of lightning bugs and put them in cowboy hats atop our heads. As we walked and lights came on up and down the streets, we took our hats off and clouds of swirling blinking bug-lights created a cloud-like fluorescent whirlwind. The effect was of something, who knew what, of an uninvited interloper, perhaps threatening our very existence. We would soon skedaddle back across roofs and through open windows to bed pulling covers over our camouflaged bodies. Hoping that Dad was late to the party. But the last thing we did was, I must say, bold. We had created an amateur copy of Robby The Robot in a garage and one older Juvenile Delinquent put on the suit and walked up Wiley Avenue. To make sure he was seen ( and dont try this at home) we attached sparklers to several dog's tails and set them off. They ran barking none were hurt and howling through every front and back yard, enough to wake, not the dead, but Dads, some with World War II weaponry. If they were lucky, they saw the shape of a robot disappearing in the distance. Police were called. Fire engines were called. Veterinarians were called. Tommy Jett was called. (Even Luther talked of it the next morning.) It all worked as planned. Young boys were questioned, but X, Y, S and K were never unmasked. (K the Grifter will remain anonymous. He is still on the run after defrauding gullible citizens in a battery powered car swindle.) Soon the McReynoldss family moved into a fallout shelter on Cameron Hill. We began to hide under our desks during drills at O.L.P.H. We helped boost public opinion for the space race and the trips to the moon were envisioned. (All the parents are now passed on to their reward. I can safely tell this story without pitfalls.) This was also the beginning of Fake Media. Not a bad night for a bunch of 10-year-olds in 1962 in Brainerd. * * * Doug Daugherty can be reached at dedsr1952@gmail.com Stephen Hatchett, who won a three-way race for district attorney for the 10th Judicial District in March, is asking for a court ruling on whether he can go ahead and occupy the office. Shari L. Tayloe, who was named to the post by Governor Bill Lee after DA Steve Crump left, says she won't budge until the Sept. 1 swear-in date. Mr. Hatchett said he is entitled to take over the office as soon as the March 5 election is certified. There was no Democratic opposition in the August election. The petition was filed Monday in McMinn County Chancery Court. The district includes Bradley, McMinn, Monroe and Polk counties. Mr. Hatchett send a July 26 letter to Ms. Tayloe saying he intends to take the oath of office on Aug. 26. Ms. Tayloe replied that she intends to work on a seamless transition "when my term ends on Aug. 31." She stated, "I am not sure why there is confusion on when my term ends and when yours begins." Ms. Tayloe suggested that they meet on Aug. 30 and she would provide an inventory of equipment and files and turn over the keys. She said, "It is my hope that the citizens will have no gap in services from my administration to yours." Mr. Hatchett said he understands that Mr. Crump, who is now executive director of the Tennessee Attorney General's Conference, "intends to hire Ms. Tayloe with a taxpayer-funded office in Hamilton County." After the Crump resignation, Judge Sandra Donaghy named former 10th District DA Jerry Estes to serve on an interim basis. Before he could step in, Governor Bill Lee appointed Ms. Tayloe. In the March election, Mr. Hatchett had 9,535 votes to 8,998 for Ms. Tayloe and 7,920 for Jeff Miller. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's new plan could cause serious problems with King Charles if they didn't talk to the Palace first, according to a former royal aide. Following their high-profile trip to Nigeria, the next country Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will tour is Colombia. A statement by the Vice President of Colombia, Francia Marquez, read: I am pleased to announce that Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have kindly accepted my invitation to visit our beautiful country. During their trip, the Duke and Duchess will join me in visiting Bogota, as well as the Caribbean and Pacific regions of Cartagena and Cali. However, one person who worked for the royal family and knows Harry thinks this must be a sign that the Sussexes want back into royal life because if not, there could be repercussions. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attend a reception in Nigeria | Andrew Esiebo/Getty Images for The Archewell Foundation Former royal employee explains why things could get very awkward for Meghan and Harry Grant Harrold was King Charles butler from 2004 to 2011. During his time working for the now-monarch, his duties also included that of valet, housekeeper, house manager, and driver. Harrold looked after Prince William and Prince Harry whenever they stayed at Highgrove House as well. He believes that the duke and duchess taking these trips could be a signal that they are trying to transition back to being working royals and hopes the pair spoke to the king before planning their tour to Colombia. Speaking on behalf of Spin Genie, Harrold opined: I think this could be one of the first steps in Meghan and Harry coming back to being working royals. It will be good to know if this has been sanctioned by the Palace or if Harry had a conversation with his father asking if he can do this. I just cant see them doing it without some sort of approval because this would upset the monarchy if they do it off their own back and I think there could be repercussions if they havent been given permission by the royal household. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry welcomed at the Defence Headquarters in Abuji, Nigeria | Andrew Esiebo/Getty Images for The Archewell Foundation If they are going to carry out a royal tour then they are acting as working royals so this could be an indication of them stepping back into royal life That is what members of the royal family do, so the fact they are classing this as a tour is indicating this as a royal tour. The former butler continued: If this hasnt been sanctioned or approved by the king then this is very awkward because this is like anybody doing a royal tour without the backing of the royal family This is obviously going to cause a lot of interest. The Palace will probably contact them to stress that this is a personal tour and not a royal tour. They will have to make clear that this is just them doing a tour as Harry and Meghan and not under the name of the king. Expert says Sussexes last tour really ruffled royal feathers, next one will do the same While Harrold is beside himself thinking Meghan and Harry would actually plan these tours to different countries without speaking to the Palace first, an expert says thats exactly whats happening. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry smile a photo after a charity polo game at the Ikoyi Polo Club in Lagos, Nigeria | KOLA SULAIMON/AFP via Getty Images Royal author and commentator Tom Quinn noted that Harry did meet with injured soldiers for Invictus in Nigeria. However, the trip also included highlights for Meghan like speaking at a leadership event, proving that it was actually more like a royal tour for the two non-working royals. Quinn told The Mirror: Everything you might expect from an official royal visit was there the receptions, the visits to schools and charities, to wounded soldiers and the disabled. Meghan and Harrys speeches and their whole attitude has been designed to give the impression that they are still fully paid-up royals and [Prince] William and his father, King Charles, dont like it one bit. The royal expert added when the Sussexes trip to Nigeria concluded King Charles was angrier than anyone has ever seen him and William [was] absolutely furious Harry and Meghan have gone roguetheir Nigeria trip [was] a bold statement that they refuse to accept they are no longer working royals. The first Junior Research Groups for quantum photonics have started work at the Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung Center for Quantum Photonics (CZS Center QPhoton), where three universities have been conducting joint research into new quantum technologies since 2022. They are headed by physicist Dr. Laetitia Farinacci and physicist Dr. Stephan Welte respectively and are based at the University of Stuttgart. Stuttgart's strong quantum research offers both groups ideal conditions. Dr. Stephan Welte is head of the new CZS Junior Research Group for Quantum Photonics Quantum Network Nodes at the University of Stuttgart. Uli Regenscheit / Universitat Stuttgart "Stuttgart provides a highly stimulating environment for my research in quantum technologies," says Farinacci. "And thanks to the collaboration within QPhoton, I have access to a network that works on closely related research topics." Welte also appreciates the ideal environment, stating, "There is a wealth of theoretical and experimental expertise available for my work here. In addition, the other QPhoton sites in Ulm and Jena, as well as the Center for Integrated Quantum Science and Technology (IQST), located in Ulm and Stuttgart, represent an ideal research network." Welte and Farinacci head the first two early career research groups at the Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung Center for Quantum Photonics (CZS Center QPhoton) in Stuttgart. At the CZS Center QPhoton, scientists from three universities have been conducting cross-location research on innovation topics in quantum technology since 2022. The center is funded by the foundation Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung with 12 million euros. QPhoton now also offers outstanding young scientists the opportunity to set up independent research groups. A total of four early career research groups are being funded with a budget of up to EUR 700,000 over five years, two of them in Stuttgart. Dr. Stephan Welte: Researching quantum networks The goal of Stephan Welte's CZS Junior Research Group, which is based at the 5th Institute of Physics at the University of Stuttgart, is to set up an experiment for information transmission in a quantum network. Welte uses atoms as qubits for this purpose. Qubits are the smallest units of information on which the function of quantum computers and quantum networks is based. Using qubits, certain tasks can be calculated faster, and information can be transmitted securely without the risk of interception. Welte and his team want to build a quantum computer in the laboratory that can preserve and distribute the quantum-specific properties of the atomic qubits. In the future, such individual nodes could be used to build a complete network, a quantum network. I want to build a small quantum computer with a network interface in Stuttgart that can be connected to other quantum computers to form a quantum internet, explains Welte. The new experiment is a customized setup for the planned quantum network applications. Two doctoral positions are planned. We will also be offering interesting projects for Bachelor's and Master's theses, says the physicist. His aim is to be able to position and manipulate all atoms individually in a very controlled manner in a space between two highly reflective mirrors. The mirrors are only half a millimeter apart. It is possible to control the atoms with laser light, with so-called optical tweezers - in a vacuum, at extremely low temperatures, explains the physicist. In 2016, Lawrence Rudolph, a successful dentist from Pittsburgh, and his wife Bianca traveled to Kafue National Park in Zambia for a hunting trip. However, Bianca never made it back home. She ended up dying while on safari in Africa. Lawrence claimed that Bianca had accidentally shot herself when she was loading a rifle into a case. At the time, Zambian police had declared her death was an accident. But on August 1, 2022, a jury in a Denver federal court found Lawrence guilty of murdering his wife of 30 years. He was convicted on one count of murder of a U.S. national in a foreign country and one count of mail fraud. He defrauded multiple life insurance companies, cashing in over $4.8 million in life insurance claims. Lawrence was sentenced to life in prison. The same jury also found Lori Milliron guilty of being an accessory to the murder. Lori was Lawrences longtime lover. She was sentenced to 17 years in prison. According to Zambian police, Lawrence claimed that Bianca was packing up a gun in their bedroom on the last day of their safari. He was in the bathroom when he heard a shotgun blast. That was when he found his wife lying on the floor with a shotgun wound to the heart. A game scout on the safari, Spencer Kakoma, rushed to the Rudolphs cabin immediately upon hearing the gunshot. He said that Lawrence told him that his wife had taken her own life. Later, Lawrence gave a different story, stating that Bianca had accidentally shot herself. When Kakoma arrived on the scene, Lawrence was fully clothed, but local police said that Lawrence told them he had been wearing nothing but a towel. Things just werent adding up. A U.S. Embassy official and a former Marine with decades of experience in weapons decided to investigate the body, which was awaiting cremation in a funeral home. After a friend of Bianca learned that Bianca would be cremated, she was suspicious because Bianca was a strict Catholic, so cremation wouldve been against her wishes. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. Fairly recently, this young woman graduated from one of the top colleges in America with a degree in English Literature. During her four years at college, she was convinced a career in book publishing was for her. As she approached graduation day, it dawned on her how difficult this career would be. Between seasoned professionals telling me it took 10+ years to even get an entry-level job, to new hires discussing how unhappy they were, to unpaid 40-hour work week internships, I started to lose hope, she explained. I took one unpaid internship my junior year and did fairly well but wasnt able to land another one. I started to shift my focus to copywriting or marketing. Still no luck. Between January and June, I applied for over 150 professional jobs and got one response back, which was a rejection. At her colleges career center, she had her resume looked at by three different people to make sure nothing was missing. She then asked one of her family members, who works at a tech company and looks at a lot of resumes, to review her cover letters for good measure. One month after she graduated, she began applying for part-time jobs at any and every place that was hiring. She was quickly running out of money and her credit cards were nearing maxed out. She desperately needed some funds, so she figured a part-time position could help her get on her feet. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. Its been three years so far that this 28-year-old woman and her boyfriend have been dating. Now, some of her boyfriends family members are somewhat wealthy, and one of his cousins, Marie, is arrogant and all about luxury living. Marie has never been warm and welcoming toward her, and it may be due to her not coming from money like they do. While her boyfriend was well-off growing up, she certainly wasnt, and her family struggled a lot. She doesnt hide this part of her past; it is what it is. At a recent family gathering with her boyfriends family, the conversation turned to how her sister-in-laws daughter Sasha has gotten into thrifting. Sasha enjoys donating her own belongings as well as purchasing items from thrift shops. She and her sister-in-law were discussing how its a wonderful thing for Sasha to be invested in, and its a great hobby. Sasha then stated one of her friends got a luxury handbag from a thrift store, and Marie jumped in to say she owns one of those designer bags. Sasha says that her friend was lucky and got a very nice deal for it since she cant actually afford it as shes just a college student, she explained. Then Marie says that some stuff from thrift shops are disgusting and bad taste and leftovers from others. I found that comment so nasty, and I told her, Well, not necessarily. What kind of bag is it, Sasha? Sasha says the brand, and I ask Marie, Whats your bag? She mentioned the same brand but got defensive and added, I bought a similar bag from the store and had to wait a lot for it. Thats how its done. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. During the week of October 22, 2023, archaeologists unearthed a collection of artifacts at the Alamo, which marks the most recent artifacts uncovered there. The Alamo is a 300-year-old historical site located in San Antonio, Texas. It was founded in the eighteenth century by Roman Catholic missionaries. The Alamo is also the site of a battle that took place in 1836 when Mexican troops laid siege on the complex for thirteen days against Texan forces. Mexican forces overpowered the Texans in the end, but they were eventually defeated by Texan rebels fighting for the state of Texas to be independent of Mexico. The Alamo has become a symbol of resistance and strength as Texan forces did not back down even though they were clearly outnumbered. The historical significance of the Alamo has made the site worth preserving. Although archaeologists had a shorter excavation week because of rainy weather, they still made some major finds that generated plenty of excitement. The newly discovered artifacts were excavated at the Alamos Long Barrack and were dug up from charcoal-rich silty clay soil around the perimeter wall. Among the items were two musket balls, gunflints, glass shards, European earthenware, and Spanish colonial ceramic pieces. The Long Barrack is the oldest original structure still standing on the historic site. It originally served as the living quarters and offices of Spanish missionaries. In an effort to preserve the building, a drainage system project began after the Long Barrack encountered a water filtration issue earlier in the year due to an unusually wet spring season. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. Russell, Clarissa, and Mike welcome Noah Rothman (National Review) to discuss the prisoner return of Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva, and Paul Whelan from Russia. GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN: Follow the show in your podcast app of choice. Find us on Youtube. Rate and Review the show in your podcast app of choice. Leave a comment in Spotify with your feedback on the discussionwe may even respond! TODAYS GUEST: 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. Noah Rothman is an American writer, editor, former MSNBC commentator, podcaster, and author. He is a senior writer and podcast guest for National Review, and he previously served as associate editor, podcast producer, and online editor for Commentary. ABOUT THE BULLETIN: The Bulletin is a weekly (and sometimes more!) current events show from Christianity Today hosted and moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Todays editor in chief) and Mike Cosper (director, CT Media). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more. The Bulletin is a production of Christianity Today Producer: Clarissa Moll Associate Producer: Leslie Thompson Editing and Mix: TJ Hester Music: Dan Phelps Executive Producers: Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper Senior Producer: Matt Stevens Home News Indonesian authorities foil student's plot to use 'Mother of Satan' explosives to bomb churches ISIS link, parents also arrested SURABAYA, Indonesia Authorities in Indonesia arrested a 19-year-old member of an Islamic extremist group and his parents, foiling a plan to suicide bomb two church sites, officials said. The high school student identified only by his initials, H.O.K, was arrested on July 31 at about 7:15 p.m. local time as he was on his way to dispose of evidence in Jalan Langsep, Sisir village, Batu City, in Malang Regency, East Java, said Anti-Terror Special Detachment 88 Spokesperson Aswin Siregar at a press conference in Jakarta on Sunday. The Special Detachment 88 squad and Batu police were involved in the arrest. 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 H.O.K. is a supporter of ISIS or Dawlah Islamiyah, Aswin told reporters last Thursday in Jakarta. Aswin said H.O.K had become an online member of Philippines-based Dawlah Islamiyah, said to be affiliated with the Islamic State (ISIS), and that he and his accomplices were planning to carry out suicide bombings using Triaceton Triperoxide (TATP) explosives at two Christian churches in Malang Regency, East Java. TATP, widely known as the Mother of Satan, is one of the most powerful and dangerous explosives. Preliminary investigations indicated that H.O.K. often accessed various websites containing Dawlah Islamiyah propaganda that led him to try to carry out suicide bombings, Aswin said. He accessed various sites containing recommendations or propaganda from Dawlah Islamiyah, Aswin reportedly said. Then he also got information from social media, so that he felt like carrying out the suicide bombing. The suspect bought explosives and other necessary tools for the attack with savings from school allowances, according to TribunJakarta.com. H.O.K.s parents were also arrested last Wednesday and police detained several others for questioning. Densus 88 is still investigating the possibility of his links to other ISIS support networks, Aswin said. Indeed, there were several people who were questioned, including his parents or family. The parents were arrested from a train, he said. The parents of the alleged terrorist were arrested on their way to Jakarta on a train, Aswin said. This also confirms that there were no explosives or bombs carried by the suspects parents. His statement corrected a prior, mistaken report that the parents had been arrested in their temporary, rented house in Bunga Tanjung Housing Complex Kav, 34, Jeding Village, Junrejo District, adjacent to Islamic boarding school As Sunnah in Batu City, Malang, East Java. Aswin said police had arrested another suspected terrorist in Solo, Central Java, who was on his way to Jakarta by train. H.O.K. and his family are residents of Jakarta but have rented a house in Batu twice over the past few years. The head of the local neighborhood association in Batu, identified only as Yulianto, told tempo.co that the family was secretive, hardly associating with neighbors. Muslims account for 83.3% of Indonesias population, while 11.43% identify as Christian, with the Evangelical population estimated at 3.23%, according to the Joshua Project. Indonesia ranked 42nd on Christian support organization Open Doors 2024 World Watch List of the 50 countries where it's most difficult to be a Christian. Indonesian society has adopted a more conservative Islamic character, and churches involved in evangelistic outreach are at risk of being targeted by Islamic extremist groups, according to the WWL report. Originally published by Morning Star News Home News Kamala Harris picks Tim Walz to be her vice presidential running mate Democrat presidential hopeful Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her vice presidential running mate. Vice President Harris has told allies that she has selected the 60-year-old Walz, with The Washington Post citing two people familiar with the pick as its sources. Walz was reportedly preferred due to his status as a military veteran and a gun owner who formerly represented a conservative Republican part of Minnesota while in Congress, WaPo reported. 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 Ben Shapiro, a prominent conservative commentator and co-founder of The Daily Wire, took to social media shortly after the news broke to say that the selection would benefit Republicans. Picking Walz is a massive gift to the Republicans. He's a radical Leftist from a non-swing state with a long history of insane statements, who presided over the burning down of his state in 2020. Kamala picked him because he's not a Jew, he tweeted. Last month, following questions about his mental and physical fitness, President Joe Biden announced that he would not seek reelection, and endorsed Harris to be installed as the Democrat Party's nominee for president. My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And its been the best decision Ive made, Biden stated last month. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats its time to come together and beat Trump. Lets do this. Since then, Harris has garnered support and endorsements from many prominent Democrat politicians and leaders, among them former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and former President Barack Obama. When it came to selecting a running mate, Reuters reported on Monday that Harris had narrowed her choice down to either Walz or Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, with the wire service citing three sources with knowledge of the matter. Harris was expected to make a final choice on a vice presidential running mate by Tuesday, when she was scheduled to make a public appearance at Temple University in Philadelphia. Harris selection of Walz comes after she secured enough delegate votes from the Democrat Party to officially secure the nomination for president months after Biden was selected as the nominee during the primary season. While many progressives have hailed this accomplishment, some, among them the Black Lives Matter organization, have taken issue with the way in which she clenched the nomination. We do not live in a dictatorship, Black Lives Matter stated last month. Installing Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee and an unknown vice president without any public voting process would make the modern Democratic Party a party of hypocrites. Home News Man who listens or far left? 5 Christian reactions to Kamala's VP pick Tim Walz The Kamala Harris campaign announced Tuesday morning that she has selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her vice presidential running mate. A former high school teacher and military veteran, the 60-year-old Walz was purportedly selected by Harris to appeal to rural, right-leaning Midwest voters. Harris' decision to select Walz to be on the Democratic ticket has received many reactions from both the right and left, including several Christian activists. 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 Here are five reactions from ideologically diverse Christian political activists to Harris selection. Home News AOC, Squad members sued for 'inciting' anti-Israel protests at Columbia University Democratic U.S. Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, Ilhan Omar of Minnesota and Jamaal Bowman of New York are facing a class-action lawsuit in which they are accused of "inciting and encouraging" the anti-Israeli protest encampment at Columbia University and harassment of Jewish students. Five anonymous plaintiffs filed the lawsuit against the three members of the Squad, an informal group of far-left members of the U.S. House of Representatives, and also named at least a dozen anti-Israel organizations, according to The New York Post. "The Gaza Encampment was extreme and outrageous conduct," the lawsuit stated. "It was illegal. It violated university rules. Its occupants harassed, followed, physically blocked, intimidated, and bullied Jewish students." 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 Earlier this year, anti-Israel protesters set up a "Gaza Solidarity Encampment" at Columbia University in opposition to Israel's military offensive in Gaza, kicking off a wave of similar demonstrations on campuses throughout the country. Some protesters praised Hamas, the terror group responsible for the Oct. 7, 2023, massacre of over 1,220 people in southern Israel. The demonstrators took over a building on campus, and the school was forced to switch to remote learning for a time because students, particularly Jewish students, did not feel safe on campus. "In a civilized community, one does not call for the obliteration of a major metropolitan area, praise terrorists, or threaten death and destruction upon our classmates and their families, friends, and coreligionists," the lawsuit reads. Two of the five students who filed the lawsuit are Jewish, and all five of the students said that they were too afraid to reveal their identities. The lawsuit argues that Ocasio-Cortez, Omar and Bowman acted as "outside champions" by encouraging the anti-Israel protest at Columbia University. All three lawmakers visited the encampment in April during a time when access to campus was limited to those with student IDs, according to The New York Post. At times, the lawmakers also issued statements in support of the anti-Israel demonstrators. In April, both Bowman and Ocasio-Cortez released statements on X condemning the arrest of hundreds of anti-Israel protesters after the university was forced to call law enforcement. The lawmakers were commenting on the arrests that took place after demonstrators took over Hamilton Hall, with activists smashing windows and using furniture to form a barricade. Omar also drew criticism for a statement she made after visiting the encampment in April that implied Jewish students opposed to the anti-Israel protests on campus are "pro-genocide." "We should not have to tolerate antisemitism or bigotry for all Jewish students, whether they are pro-genocide or anti-genocide," Omar said at the time. In their suit, the plaintiffs argue the supporters of the campus protesters "not only consciously disregarded the rights of others, but the impact on the rights of others was the point of the protest: the more disruption [they] could cause for the university and the [students], the more leverage they thought they would have for their agenda." An unnamed Jewish plaintiff referred to as "Tim Doe" said he witnessed "offensive and antisemitic signs and messages" during the anti-Israel protest on campus, including posters depicting a skunk and the Star of David. "In one instance, I was walking with my non-Jewish friends when I was singled out because I was wearing my yarmulke," Tim Doe said. "A leader of the pro-Palestinian protest approached our group and confronted me. He singled me out, yelling that I needed to move, and when I refused, he began to shove me out of the way." Another unnamed student involved in the suit, a senior referred to as "Eric Doe," said he "felt like he was living under an ominous cloud of doubt and uncertainty as he waited for the protestors or administration's next move that would further impact his studies and life on campus." The offices of Ocasio-Cortez, Omar and Bowman did not immediately respond to The Christian Post's request for comment. Earlier this year, Omar's daughter, Isra Hirsi, was one of 100 people arrested after Columbia University President Minouche Shafik authorized police to clear the camp. The demonstrators later resettled the anti-Israel encampment. Hirsi is an organizer with Columbia Students for Justice in Palestine. The daughter of the Minnesota congresswoman was suspended from Barnard College, a school partnered with Columbia University, following her arrest. In an April 19 X post, Omar stated that she is "enormously proud" of Hirsi. "She has always led with courage and compassion, from organizing a statewide school walk out on the 20th anniversary of Columbine at the age of 15, to leading the biggest youth climate rally at our nation's Capitol at 16, and now pushing her school to stand against genocide," Omar wrote. Bowman, who has developed a reputation as a staunch critic of Israel, lost his primary race last month in New York's 16th Congressional District to fellow Democrat George Latimer, who has expressed support for Israel. The district encompasses a portion of the Bronx and the southern half of Westchester County. Home News 'Raped, strangled to death': New ad campaign warns against Kamala's border policies A new ad produced by a Catholic advocacy group raises concerns about Vice President Kamala Harris immigration policies and urges Americans not to vote for her in the 2024 presidential election. The advocacy group CatholicVote has launched a six-figure ad campaign in the border state of Arizona, which is also a swing state in the 2024 election, designed to draw attention to what it characterizes as the failures of the Biden-Harris administrations border policies. The 30-second video comes less than two weeks after President Joe Biden dropped out of the presidential race and endorsed Harris who was installed as the Democrat nominee. The ad, titled Kamalas Border Crisis, begins by showing a photograph of a young girl accompanied by the words raped and strangled to death. The video explains that her death occurred at the hands of an illegal alien released by the Biden-Harris administration. 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 ad shows a picture of the now deceased girl and her killer, an illegal immigrant, in court, followed by an image of Biden and Harris together. Noting that Harris was in charge of the border for three years, the video includes footage of the massive influx of illegal immigrants, mostly men, at the U.S.-Mexico border that has come to define the Biden administrations immigration policy. The video concludes with a message urging Harris to protect the vulnerable, not votes. Vice President Kamala Harris shameful mismanagement of the border is morally indefensible, said CatholicVote President Brian Burch in a statement shared with The Christian Post. Her failures have cost the lives of American citizens, while putting tens of thousands of vulnerable migrants at risk of rape, sexual assault and exploitation. While cartels, sex traffickers, and drug dealers profit, real people, including children, are suffering, Burch added. Catholics are some of the most generous and welcoming citizens in America, but we are disgusted by this moral catastrophe. Our country, and more importantly, the poor and the vulnerable deserve a leader that will restore order and sanity to the border before another child is raped and strangled to death. This ad campaign is only the beginning of our massive effort to expose the truth about Kamala Harris. In 2021, shortly after taking office, Biden appointed Harris as the border czar, whose primary responsibility was to oversee our diplomatic efforts to address the root causes of migration from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. The Biden administrations immigration policies, specifically the abandonment of the Trump-era Migrant Protection Protocol that required asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their claims were adjudicated, the rescission of the national emergency on the southern border, the cessation of construction on the U.S.-Mexico border wall, have been blamed for a surge in illegal immigration. Since the Biden administration took office in 2021, the number of monthly encounters between illegal immigrants and border enforcement officials at the southwest border has consistently remained above 100,000. According to data provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, apprehensions reached a monthly high of 301,982 in December 2023. The total number of encounters between February 2021, the first full month of the Biden administration, and June 2024, the most recent month where data is available, adds up to 8,114,501. The surge of migration into the U.S. and outrage over the crimes committed at the hands of illegals like the one highlighted in the CatholicVote ad has resulted in a very low approval rating for Biden on the issue of immigration. The RealClearPolitics average of polls measuring Bidens job approval on the issue of immigration, based on polls taken between June 29-July 28, shows just 33.2% of Americans approve of his handling of immigration policy compared to 62.8% who disapprove. This amounts to a net disapproval rating of 29.6 percentage points. Bidens approval rating on immigration is significantly lower than his overall job approval rating, which stands at 40.8% as of Monday. Only on the issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict does Biden secure both a lower approval rating and a higher net disapproval rating. With 29.4% of Americans approving of his handling of the conflict in the Middle East and 63.0% disapproving, the presidents net disapproval rating on the issue is 33.6 percentage points. Home News Detroit pastor thanks Trump for visiting the hood that Obama, Biden ignored Former President Donald Trump was welcomed by Pastor Lorenzo Sewell of 180 Church in Detroit, Michigan, this past weekend during a roundtable with religious and community leaders aiming to engage black voters ahead of the 2024 presidential election. The pastor expressed his appreciation for Trump's visit, contrasting it with what he contends is the absence of former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden from the "hood" of Detroit. "President Trump, I'm so humbled that you would be here. President Obama never came to the hood, so to speak," Sewell said to applause from the audience. 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 "President Joe Biden went to the big NAACP dinner [in May], but he never came to the hood so thank you," he added, referring to a perceived neglect by previous Democratic administrations. Trump's campaign projected this engagement as part of a broader effort to address the concerns of black voters, with Sewell noting on "Fox & Friends First" his support for Trump's Platinum Plan. The plan promises to increase access to $500 billion for black communities, which could help businesses and churches. "Those metrics matter to us. So we're going to hold him accountable to the Platinum Plan that he produced," Sewell stated. Sewell hoped the roundtable would be a "discussion for those who are the least of these and those who are disenfranchised ... to have an opportunity to talk to the former president." "In urban America, typically people are on the menu but they are never at the table," Sewell stressed. On Saturday, the Trump campaign launched the "Black Americans for Trump" coalition. At the roundtable, Trump was joined by high-profile black Republicans, like former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Dr. Ben Carson and Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla. "Black voters are rallying around Donald J. Trump because of Jobs and Justice," Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., said in a statement. "There is a clear contrast this election, as black voters experience the loss of spending power under Biden, the ravaging of their neighborhoods because of crime under Democrat leadership, and Biden's border disproportionately hurting communities of color. Donald Trump offers the best path forward. It's not just a Black agenda, it is an American agenda." Trump's visit comes as Biden's support among black voters is down from where it was in the lead-up to the 2020 election. As the progressive think tank Brookings notes, a recent Pew survey showed that about one in five African American men say they plan to vote for Trump, which has led to fears among Democrats that the loss of some black voters in liberal stronghold cities like Detroit, Philadelphia and Milwaukee could cost Biden swing states in November. The Biden campaign held a high-profile, star-studded fundraising event on Saturday in Los Angeles, California, headlined by Hollywood actors and former President Obama, that was expected to raise $28 million. In a statement shared with media ahead of the weekend, Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung criticized Biden for engaging with "elitist, out-of-touch celebrity benefactors" while Trump met with "everyday Americans in Detroit, Mich., an area decimated by Joe Biden's failed policies." On Friday, the Biden campaign released statements from other Detroit faith leaders denouncing Trump. Pastor Cindy Rudolph accused Trump of "making a mockery of the church, and he continues to lack the moral clarity necessary for the office of the president. "Donald Trump has the nerve to waltz into our city and act like he wants to understand the struggles black Detroiters face, but the reality is he doesnt care, Pastor James Perkins said in a statement released by the Biden campaign, according to Bridge Michigan. Every time Trump opens his mouth to talk to black folks, he demonizes us, insults us, and makes empty promises hell never keep. A recent Wall Street Journal poll indicated a potential surge in support for Trump among black voters nationwide, with 30% considering supporting him over Biden in the upcoming election. Home News Georgia town to pay $55K after arresting man with 'God bless the homeless vets' sign A Georgia city has agreed to amend its panhandling regulations and pay $55,000 after a man who carried a sign reading "God Bless the Homeless Vets" was arrested. The City of Alpharetta and demonstrator Jeff Gray reached a settlement last month before the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia Atlanta Division, the details of which were released Monday. According to the agreement, the city agreed to amend its rules on panhandling to protect First Amendment rights and provide training for law enforcement to respect said rights. 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 Additionally, Alpharetta agreed to pay $55,000 in legal fees and other costs, $41,250.00 of which will go to Gray, and the remaining sum will go to The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, which represented Gray. "For and in consideration of Defendants' promises and obligations under this Agreement, Plaintiff agrees to dismiss with prejudice all claims asserted in the Lawsuit or that could have been asserted in the Lawsuit in accordance with the process set forth in this Agreement," the settlement continued. "Defendants hereby release and forever discharge any and all Claims against Plaintiff arising out of or relating to the Lawsuit, both past and present, occurring on or before the Effective Date of this Agreement, known and unknown, foreseen and unforeseen." In a statement, Gray thanked FIRE for successfully challenging the local ordinance on freedom of speech and panhandling. "The City of Alpharetta stomped on my right to freedom of speech and they would have gotten away with it if not for FIRE," stated Gray. "FIRE taught Alpharetta that everyone has the right to free speech, including people who are poor or homeless. Working with the wonderful team at FIRE has been one of the best experiences of my life." In January 2023, Gray filed a federal lawsuit against the city and officials Arick Furr and Harold Shoffeitt from the Alpharetta Department of Public Safety. At issue was a 2022 incident in which Gray was detained, arrested and charged with having allegedly violated the city's anti-panhandling policy. "Gray's speech about the plight of homeless veterans whether 'panhandling' or not and his subsequent questioning of Lt. Furr's actions, was clearly established as protected political expression," stated the complaint. "Even if Gray was 'panhandling,' it is clearly established that the First Amendment protects speakers asking others for help." Gray has a YouTube channel titled "HonorYourOath Civil Rights Investigations," on which he labels himself a "civil rights investigator, First Amendment auditor, Second Amendment auditor." In 2021, Gray sued officials in Moultrie, Georgia, after he was charged with disorderly conduct in 2019 when he walked around city hall with a sign reading "F City Hall," reported The Moultrie Observer. Around the same time that Gray sued Alpharetta, he also filed suit against Blackshear Police Chief Chris Wright over an incident in which Gray was cited for allegedly violating an ordinance against "holding a 'parade, procession, or demonstration' without the Blackshear City Council's permission." In July 2023, in response to the lawsuit against Wright, the Blackshear City Council agreed to amend their Parades and Demonstrations Ordinance so individuals do not have to get advanced approval from city officials to demonstrate on public streets and sidewalks. Home News Politics in the Pews: The impact of black churches on American politics Editors' note: This is part 11 of The Christian Post's year-long articles series "Politics in the Pews: Evangelical Christian engagement in elections from the Moral Majority to today." In this series, we will look at issues pertaining to election integrity and new ways of getting out the vote, including churches participating in ballot collection. We'll also look at issues Evangelicals say matter most to them ahead of the presidential election and the political engagement of diverse groups, politically and ethnically. Read other articles in the series by clicking here. For generations, predominantly African American congregations have significantly influenced United States politics and social activism, often being crucial to large-scale cultural change. Black clergy and churches have been at the forefront of causes like the Civil Rights Movement, the Poor People's Campaign, voter registration drives, organizing marches for social justice causes and other endeavors. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe But as with other religious groups, predominantly African American churches have seen declines in both membership and attendance, possibly impacting their political outreach. The Christian Post spoke with African American pastors to get their thoughts on the impact of black Church involvement in American politics, the current challenges to that impact and Republican presidential nominee and former President Donald Trump appearing to gain support in the black community. Local work, national results The Rev. Jimmie R. Hawkins is the advocacy director for the Presbyterian Church (USA)'s Washington Office of Public Witness, a ministry that advocates for various public policies. Hawkins told The Christian Post that in recent decades, he believes the influence of black churches has become visible through examples like the elections of President Barack Obama and Sen. Raphael Warnock, R-Ga. "Black voting numbers went up significantly, and a lot of that was due to the work of black congregations in their local communities," he said. "I think a lot of the work that's been done by black congregations is done locally, and so, we don't see it from a national perspective." "When you talk about mobilizing black voters, voter registration, a lot of that happens, obviously not on the campus, but a lot of individuals who are mobilizing are from the black faith community." Hawkins pointed to Stacey Abrams, a bestselling author who was unsuccessful in her 2018 and 2022 campaigns as the Democratic gubernatorial nominee in Georgia, as an example of modern activism. He said she "is definitely a person of faith" and "credited with winning Raphael Warnock's Senate position" in 2022 when the pastor of the Atlanta church where Martin Luther King Jr. once ministered became the state's first black U.S. senator. "A lot of her mobilization was done through the black Church, I would say in partnership with the black Church," he added. Pastor Leon Morehead of New Grace Missionary Baptist Church in Highland Park, Michigan, told CP that he believes "it was the black Church that helped get Bill Clinton elected" in the 1990s. "It was also the black Church that helped most definitely President Obama become elected because of how active their committees, their groups were at targeting the black Church," Morehead said. Another example came in February when the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church and the African Methodist Episcopal Church, two predominantly black denominations, announced an alliance to advance voter turnout in Georgia. Hawkins mentioned the modern Poor People's Campaign, led partly by progressive activist Rev. William Barber II. In the early to mid-2010s, the campaign organized a "Moral Mondays" protest in North Carolina against various bills and policies by the Republican-controlled legislature and state government. Similar protests eventually spread to other states. Hawkins, who participated in those protests, told CP that while the effort was "by and large" overseen by black clergy, most of those arrested in the protests "were white professionals." "So, that was fascinating to me because they were not directly impacted by the things that they were fighting against," he continued. "You have a movement that I think was very unique in American history, wherein you have this effort being done, again not in total isolation, but primarily by black clergy to fight for voting rights." The Poor People's Campaign has led what it labels "A National Call for Moral Revival," holding rallies in Washington, D.C. in recent years, including a demonstration at the National Mall on July 29 called the "The Mass Poor People's & Low Wage Workers' Assembly & Moral March on Washington." "We are here today representing America's largest potential swing vote poor and low-wage brothers and sisters who make this country work," Barber said during the gathering. "Determined with our moral and religious, labor, social justice advocate allies, we are determined that it is time to rise up and say together that its time to climb and take this nation to higher ground." Barber, the former pastor of Greenleaf Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Goldsboro, North Carolina, has gained a reputation as one of the most vocal progressive Christian activists in the U.S. He told the crowd they stand in a "long tradition" of advocates driven by Scripture to inspire change in the country. "We gather here today 70 years after the U.S. Supreme Court declared that segregating children had no place in public education. It was not so much that nine white men in black robes woke up; it was that millions of Americans white and black rose up. Our nation's conscience cried that it was beneath the promise of the Constitution to inflict the stigma of race, that it was beneath the call of the scriptures that declares 'out of one blood God has made all people.'" "We are assembled 59 years after Martin Luther King Jr. said: 'the greatest fear of the greedy oligarchy in this country was for the masses of white people and black people to form a voting bloc that could fundamentally shift the economic architecture of this country,'" he added. While the Civil Rights Movement is more known for its push for racial justice, the modern Poor People's Campaign pushes for a host of public policy priorities, including raising the minimum age to $15, expanding voting rights, stopping foreclosures and evictions, enacting rent freezes, 100% student debt relief for poor and low-income borrowers, opposition to building a wall at the U.S. southern border and directing U.S. Department of Defense funding toward more domestic needs. As for Barber himself, he has rallied in opposition to bans on abortion and called for an international boycott of North Carolina after the state passed a law in 2016 requiring schools and government buildings to force individuals to use bathrooms consistent with their biological sex. Changes amid declining memberships While the Church was once "the social hub, the interface of the [black] community," Morehead said that churches' influence on politics is changing because they are "fluctuating in attendance." In June, Morehead's Detroit, Michigan-area congregation held an event titled "Lift Every Voice and Vote," which featured Highland Park Mayor Glenda McDonald and voter registration volunteers. Despite extensive promotion by the church, the event only garnered around 30 attendees, reports The Christian Science Monitor. McDonald was disappointed. While they may not be as intensely impacted as other churches and denominations, especially mainline Protestant denominations, black churches are also seeing a decline in attendance and membership. These drops in local church involvement, Morehead said, are "just going to shift the way we do things," both regarding political activism and corporate worship. "Now, we may not have 500 people in the building, but we have 500 people watching online. Or, we'll have 150-175 in the building, and we'll have 350 online. It just changes the way things are done," he said. "Now you can't just say, 'Hey, here's my politician coming in, you all need to be in the building.' No, we have to make sure things are streamed and that they're well promoted, via social media and those avenues." Morehead thinks "that the black Church is still a place where people are trusted" and that "we have to remember that, as long as people trust us, we have to be careful with what happens." Hawkins, whose mostly white denomination saw its membership drop from approximately 2.5 million members in 2000 to around 1.14 million in 2022, said, "There's always going to be a remnant of folk who are smaller in number who are going to have an impact." "But I also think, obviously, the reality is that with fewer people attending church, the institution is not going to have the impact that it has had in the past as far as the individual actions of a black congregation or the institution," Hawkins told CP. "I also think that there are a lot of Americans who are not affiliated with congregations who would define themselves as spiritual. And so, I think that they are very engaged in justice movements." As part of his advocacy work in D.C., Hawkins connects with young people of faith "to be a partner with them in their efforts." "I do think it's going to have some diminishing impact, but I also think it's going to transition more, and it's going to evolve, where it might not be through someone who is a pastor of a church, but they are a person of faith who are engaged in justice issues," he said. Trump and the black vote Although African Americans have been a reliable voting block for the Democrat Party for decades, polling has suggested that Republican Donald Trump appears to be garnering increased support among the black community. In the 2020 election, exit polls show that Trump garnered roughly 12% of the African American vote after only receiving about 8% of support from the demographic in 2016. Polling from The New York Times/Siena College shows that support for Trump among black voters increased from 15% on July 2 to 23% on July 24. On July 2, 73% of black voters indicated they would support President Joe Biden. But on July 24, days after Biden stepped out of the race, support for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris was measured at 69%. Dan Hopkins, a professor of political science at the University of Pennsylvania, wrote in an op-ed in late June that data from the National Annenberg Election Survey found that older black voters remain overwhelmingly Democratic. Still, younger black voters favored Biden by much smaller margins. "In fact, black voters between 25 and 34 gave just about equal support to Biden and Trump," he wrote, but stressed that the numbers could suggest "Biden's underperformance with young voters was really a weakness with infrequent voters." When asked his opinion of the apparent rise in support for Trump among black voters, Hawkins told CP that "the percentages are very small" and that "I don't think it's going to be very large at all" for this year's election. Hawkins believes that "the biggest danger" the Democrats are going to face come November will be the "foreign policy agenda" of the Biden administration, especially on Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza. "I think there's going to be more of a danger of people not voting than there will be of people deserting voters of Biden over Trump. I don't think Trump is very attractive to the black community," Hawkins said. "I think that the issues he proposes are not identical to the issues that are important to the black community. And I just think that, right now, there's more frustration that could be listed rather than an identification with Donald Trump as a candidate." Morehead said shifts in support are not significant, telling CP that issues like Trump's recent "black jobs" comment likely turn off a lot of African American voters, seeing such remarks as being "racial dog whistle-type tactics." Although some African Americans may support Trump because of his economic record, "many others" credit the Biden administration with helping on issues like paying student loans and handling the COVID-19 pandemic. Christian Post Deputy Managing Editor Samuel Smith contributed to this report. Home News UN fires 9 staffers accused of involvement in Oct. 7 Hamas-led massacre after probe Nine staffers for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees have been fired over their potential involvement in the Hamas-led Oct. 7, 2023, attack that killed hundreds in southern Israel, the U.N. announced Monday. The terminations are the result of an investigation by the U.N. Office of Oversight Services launched this year after Israel alleged that several UNRWA staffers took part in the Oct. 7 attack in which around 1,200 people were killed. Another 250 were taken hostage by terrorists and taken into Gaza. U.N. Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq told reporters in New York that the Office of Oversight Services investigation was looking into allegations that 19 UNRWA staff were involved in the Oct. 7 attack. Despite the terminations, OIOS maintains that it couldn't independently verify information used by Israel to make the allegations. 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 one case, no evidence was obtained by OIOS to support the allegations of the staff member's involvement, while in nine other cases, the evidence obtained by OIOS was insufficient to support the staff members' involvement," Huq said. Huq said that appropriate measures will be taken in accordance with UNRWA regulations to respond to those 10 cases. As for the other nine cases, Huq said evidence suggests that UNRWA staff may have been involved in the attack. "For the remaining nine cases, the evidence if authenticated and corroborated could indicate that the UNRWA staff members may have been involved in the attacks of 7 October," UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said in a statement. "I have decided that in the case of these remaining nine staff members, they cannot work for UNRWA. All contracts of these staff members will be terminated in the interest of the Agency." Lazzarini stressed that UNRWA's priority is to "continue lifesaving and critical services for Palestine Refugees in Gaza and across the region, especially in the face of the ongoing war, the instability and risk of regional escalation." "UNRWA is committed to continue upholding the fundamental principles and values of the United Nations, including the humanitarian principle of neutrality, and to ensure that all its staff abide by the Agency's policy on outside and political activities," he said. "Finally, I reiterate UNRWA's condemnation of the 7 October attack in the strongest possible terms. I call once again for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and their safe return to their families." Earlier this year, UNRWA fired 12 staffers and put seven others on leave without pay amid the allegations of Oct. 7 involvement. UNRWA Communications Director Juliette Touma told The Associated Press that the group of nine announced Monday includes individuals from both groups previously announced. The U.N. has not stated how many UNRWA staffers have been terminated since Oct. 7. The initial allegations in January that 12 UNRWA staffers had participated in the Oct. 7 attack led several U.N. member countries, including the United States, to halt their financial contributions to UNRWA. Since then, the United States has been the only donor country not to resume its contributions. In late January, Israeli intelligence estimated that around 10% of UNRWA's 12,000 staffers in Gaza have ties to Hamas, a terror organization that has controlled the Gaza Strip since 2007, and other Islamic extremist organizations. A dossier shared with the U.S. government and obtained by The Wall Street Journal estimated that about 1,200 UNRWA employees in Gaza have links to Hamas or the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Israeli intelligence also suggests that about half of UNRWA workers have family members who have ties to extremist organizations. Other details in the dossier suggest that a UNRWA school counselor from Khan Younis and his son abducted a woman from Israel, The Times of Israel reports. A social worker with the agency was accused of supplying ammunition and directing traffic during the Oct. 7 attack. A third employee was accused of participating in the attack on Kibbutz Be'eri, in which 97 were killed. Last December, Israeli Channel 13's Almog Boker reported that a UNRWA teacher allegedly held a man hostage and barely provided the abductee with enough to eat and neglected his medical needs. At the time, UNRWA said the journalist had not offered any evidence to the agency to support his claims. In May, UN Watch published a series of chat room posts by Palestinians purportedly accusing UNRWA staff members of stealing humanitarian aid intended for civilians. The Oct. 7 attack sparked an Israeli military offensive in Gaza to eradicate Hamas and free the hostages. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry reports that over 39,000 people have been killed since the war began. Those figures don't differentiate between combatants and civilians. Home Opinion Paris Olympics Last Supper blasphemy was repugnant to Jews as well How could it not be? Its aim was to mock all religious beliefs, not just the Christian faith. It used to be that opponents of religion depicted it as getting people to believe unreasonable things they never saw. The Paris opening flipped that. You heard the lame non-apologies. If you rejected them, as I did, it was because you trusted your eyes more than the unreasonable excuses you heard through MSM. What you saw was an attempt to take something Christians see as holy and ridicule it in the extreme. The target of that mockery was not limited to Christianity per se, but to all who manifest intense belief in a God who has normative demands on human beings. That includes Jews. The French are justifiably proud of their role in making liberty part of everymans expectations, especially through the French Revolution, which inspired so many others. (Actually, ours in the USA came first.) They therefore eagerly push the boundaries of personal liberties except in regard to religion, or in including groups not particularly in favor like Christians. 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 There is much history to this. The French Revolution almost immediately devolved into anti-Christian practices. The revolutionary governments stripped the Church of its money, shuttered its churches, made clergy the vassals of the State, and proclaimed a secular religion in which the altar in Notre Dame was replaced with an icon of Reason which became the new secular religion. Even the calendar was modified, replacing the seven-day week of the Bible with a more progressive 10-day unit. Personal liberties did not fare any better. While the Declaration of the Rights of Man (1789) is truly one of Western civilizations stellar achievements, those rights were whittled away after just a short passage of time. By 1794, the ruling National Convention had passed laws imposing the death penalty for "disparaging the National Convention," and "misleading public opinion." The rights of man had become the rights of those people that a ruling class found deserving of those rights. In the Reign of Terror, the guillotine gorged itself on human sacrifices to the new, progressive ideology. Pushing a libertine agenda while showing hostility to traditional faith is therefore nothing new in Paris. Disparaging the Last Supper is just the latest installment. For arguments sake, though, lets examine what the Olympic officials want us to believe (even if denied by the performers themselves). The second table scene had nothing to do with the Last Supper, they tell us. No, it was all about Dionysus the god of festivity (and wine-making, fertility, freedom from restriction and insanity!) You know. The naked guy in blue in the first table scene. Makes sense to revisit the ancient roots of the Olympic games, does it not? In museums around the world, you will find many works of art depicting Dionysus. Previous Olympiads did so as well. Those displays acknowledged the past; the recent one celebrated and embraced it. (The blue, Dionysus guy on the platter also released NU, a song touting his novel idea for bringing about world peace: If everyone gets naked, there will no longer be any wars, because where could we keep our weapons?) In the past, we looked upon the Greek gods as a part of human civilization that we had mercifully outgrown. In the recent Olympic skit, weve moved to enthusiastically deifying the eradication of boundaries and limits. So, from whatever angle you approach it, it is hardly surprising that the French opening of the Olympics would push the limits, and contain elements of hostility to religion, shock (like the headless Marie Antionette), sexuality, and abandoning traditional norms. There is another tradition, one which clashed with Dionysus, and rejected the divinity of a group of overage minors who murdered, pillaged, and raped. In ancient Jerusalem, the ruling Syrian-Greeks had built a gymnasium where athletes the forerunners of todays Olympians competed in the nude. They saw the human body as the most perfect example of the wisdom of their gods. The next hill over housed the Temple, where the priests participated in a superbly synchronized service of the One God, a service very much bound by rules. The holiness of the Temple progressed, step-wise, from outside to the most internal areas. The holiest location was the Sanctum Sanctorum, completely cut off from view. It housed (in earlier days) the Ark of the Law, containing the tablets of the Ten Commandments. They, too, were kept hidden. The area was accessed only one day a year, on Yom Kippur, by the High Priest, as a representative of the entire nation and his sight was obscured by a cloud of smoke. In a word, while the Greeks celebrated external beauty, the Temple taught the notion that the most holy, the most important elements of human life were internal. Things like character and integrity. Connection with God. The more internal, the more profound. And the more hidden from the public gaze, which would make it common and cheap. We call this the Judeo-Christian legacy. It values internal perfection, respects tradition, and lives by timeless norms that have always enriched mankind. It is the polar opposite of the spirit of the Olympics of 2024, and the real enemy of the libertine spirit that wishes to extinguish it. Another skit approvingly pictured a threesome approaching a bedroom door, with shared amorous intent. It has been suggested that those in charge wanted to introduce as much French into the celebration as possible and figured that one of the few phrases that would be recognized outside of France was menage-a-trois. Contemplating this latest exercise in spitting upon traditional values, wed suggest another phrase: Plus ca change, plus cest la meme chose. The more things change, the more they are the same. Bishops condemn riots and violence towards migrants The Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales has condemned far-right fuelled anti-immigration riots continuing across parts of the UK. In a statement, the bishops said they stood with those supporting migrants and refugees as they warned that the levels of violence seen in the past week are a threat to civil society. Bishop Paul McAleenan, Lead Bishop for Migrants and Refugees, asked people to join him in praying for peace. He said he was praying for migrants who feel threatened, and for the emergency services "who selflessly continue to work despite the risks". "I condemn the appalling violence over the past week, especially that directed at migrants and their places of residence," he said. "They demonstrate a complete disregard of the values which underpin the civil life of our country." He praised the work of charities, faith groups and volunteers working to support migrants and refugees. "Today, and always, we need to continue to pray, work and stand together for peace in our country," he said. "The actions of the few involved in violence stands in stark contrast to the work of charities, church groups and volunteers who tirelessly extend the hand of welcome to migrants in acts of solidarity. "We hope and pray that they will re-double their efforts so that we can rebuild communities after the terrible events of the last few days." Bishop Tom Neylon, Auxiliary Bishop of Liverpool, last week joined faith leaders from across Merseyside in calling for peace. "There are non-violent means to resolving issues that we might not agree on in our society, so let's use those methods to bring about the peace and healing we need at this moment," he said. The riots broke out last Tuesday in the aftermath of a knife attack in Southport that left three girls dead. Cars and shops have been torched and hotels housing asylum seekers targeted. Hundreds have been arrested, and some have already appeared in court, the youngest being a 14-year-old boy who cannot be named for legal reasons due to his age. In Plymouth, 150 officers were deployed to the city centre after violence spread there on Monday. Violence also broke out in Darlington and flared up again in Belfast. China sentences Christian elder to 5 years in prison (CP) A court in Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province in China, has sentenced Elder Zhang Chunlei of a house church to five years in prison for "subversion of state power" and "fraud." The sentencing occurred in a closely regulated proceeding that limited public attendance, according to a report. The Guiyang Intermediate People's Court sentenced Zhang of the Guiyang Ren'ai Reformed Church, who suffers from liver cirrhosis, on July 24, said the UK-based group Christian Solidarity Worldwide. Elder Zhang's legal troubles began when he was detained on March 16, 2021, following his visit to a local police station. He was inquiring about the whereabouts of 10 fellow church members who had been apprehended during a police raid at a private property where a church retreat was being held. Subsequent to his detention, Zhang was formally arrested on May 1, 2021, under suspicions of fraud. It later surfaced in January 2022 that an additional charge had been brought against him "inciting subversion of state power." Since then, he has been held in continuous detention, a period marked by his deteriorating health condition due to liver cirrhosis, which his family only learned about recently. When Zhang entered prison, he was in good health, Yang said, according to Bitter Winter, a magazine dedicated to covering issues of religious liberty in China. However, while detained, he developed cholecystitis and was hospitalized in August 2023. He received intravenous support for over 20 days before being diagnosed with liver cirrhosis. Despite his critical condition, Zhang was returned to jail. According to Yang, his survival is now at risk under these conditions. She insists that he requires appropriate medical treatment outside the prison environment. In its decision, the court said Zhang would serve three years and six months for inciting subversion of state power, with an additional two years for the fraud charge, cumulatively amounting to a five-year sentence. The sentencing includes the time already spent in detention, setting his release date as March 16, 2026. The court also mandated the recovery of 14,400 yuan (about $2,000) for the fraud-related offenses and imposed an additional fine of 5,000 yuan ($700). The court proceedings were tightly controlled, with restrictions placed on public attendance, CSW noted, saying only Zhang's wife, Yang Aiqing, was allowed inside the courtroom, under the strict condition of not having her phone with her, which she had to store in a locker. CSW founder Mervyn Thomas vehemently criticized the charges and the sentence. "The charges against Elder Zhang Chunlei are completely unfounded. He should not have spent the past three years in detention on them and he certainly should not have been sentenced to any more time in prison," Thomas said. He called for Zhang's immediate and unconditional release, and demanded reparations for the wrongful suffering endured by Zhang and his family. Bitter Winter noted earlier that harsh sentences are part of a broader agenda under President Xi Jinping's administration. The policy aims to coerce all Protestant churches into merging with the state-sanctioned Three-Self Church, limiting their independence and aligning their teachings with communist ideologies. Open Doors, which monitors Christian persecution globally, has said that the persecution of Christians in China is part of an expansive effort to control religious practice in China. This includes stringent regulations and enhanced digital surveillance specifically targeting unregistered "house churches." Persecution is also witnessed in regions dominated by Buddhism or Islam, where converts to Christianity are under severe threat, according to Open Doors. However, the pressure is progressively increasing across the country, with digital surveillance widely impacting Christians, particularly those involved with house churches. Elder Zhang is reportedly preparing to appeal his sentence. The Christian Post Keswick Convention distances itself from pro-life organisation's outreach The organisers of the Keswick Convention have questioned the approach of a pro-life ministry that puts on educational displays about abortion in towns and cities across the UK. Brephos uses large-scale graphic photos of aborted babies in their public displays and posters to educate people about the reality of abortion. It ran a public education event in Keswick in July, coinciding with the Keswick Convention, a conservative-evangelical conference that takes place in the Lake District town each summer. Keswick Ministries, which runs the conference, was quoted in local newspaper The Keswick Reminder, criticising the display. In a statement it said it had asked Brephos not to run its public displays in the town and added that it was "delighted" to work closely with police on the matter. "We are aware that Brephos, an organisation not affiliated with Keswick Ministries, are taking part in a 'public education' event in Keswick town today," the July 24 statement said. "We are saddened by this approach at targeting Keswick Convention visitors which we recognise also impacts others within the town. We would like to emphasise that this group has no affiliation with Keswick Ministries. "As soon as we were aware that this activity might be a possibility, we contacted the organisers and requested they not use their public display in Keswick. Keswick Ministries are delighted to work closely with the police who are aware of the situation." After being criticised over its stance, Keswick Ministries released an updated statement expressing its belief in the sanctity of life but reiterating its criticism of the pro-life ministry's public education campaigns. "Keswick Ministries has always believed in the sanctity of human life, believing life begins at conception," said the August 5 statement published in Evangelicals Now. "We will never abandon this historical position. We rejoice to share this Biblical conviction with many ministries. "However, as per our original statement, we are saddened by an approach which we believe is likely to disengage more people than it wins to this beautiful truth." In a blog posted on the website of CBR UK, of which Brephos is a part, theologian Dr Aaron Edwards accused Keswick Ministries of putting its reputation "above the missional needs of the hour". "[The Keswick Convention] is known as something of an evangelical bastion, as promoting sound doctrine, holding the line on key issues, etc. Yet sadly, like many evangelical institutions today, it now appears to be 'saddened' not by the heinous evil in its midst but by the potential loss of its own reputation before the world," he said. "Note in the article above the pitiful contrast of emotions. They are 'saddened' by brothers and sisters boldly standing for truth and justice; and they are 'delighted' to work with the police who so often oppose such Christians as though they're bad for society." When asked what enabled NxtGen to become the largest cloud services and solutions provider in India, A S Rajgopal, CEO, founder, and managing director, points to the pillars that guide the companys operations: speed, security, simplicity, support, scalability, and sovereignty. He stresses that all are directly applicable to enterprises NxtGen serves in India and in its rapidly growing operations throughout Asia and the Middle East. NxtGen supports more than 900 enterprises across India alone, including small, midsized, and large organizations in both the private and public sectors, says Rajgopal. The pillars we base our operations on are applicable to all, whether its a leading hospital chain providing life-saving care or a government agency serving Indias citizens. On this last point, Rajgopal points to NxtGens recent success with its support of the Electoral Commission of India a project that required the company to create the platform used to manage the nations election, a mission that required NxtGen to ensure complete sovereignty while simultaneously providing unprecedented speed, scalability, compute power, networking performance and storage capacity. The platform we created to manage and facilitate Indias elections needed not only to deliver 100% uptime all of the time, but it had to be completely sovereign, he says. As the only true sovereign cloud provider in India, and one with a significant track record of success in the cloud, NxtGen was the obvious choice. But sovereignty of course encompasses far more than where data centers are located something we believe it is important for the market to understand. Although NxtGen operates data centers in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Faridabad, and Mumbai, Rajgopal stresses that true sovereignty something absolutely required in elections requires data sovereignty, operational sovereignty, and technological sovereignty. NxtGen delivers all three. NxtGen is completely data sovereign because we are not subject to any foreign jurisdictions, notes Rajgopal. Not only do we offer complete data residency within India, but we are answerable solely to Indian jurisdictions. We also own our data centers and cloud, giving us the operational sovereignty to give our customers complete visibility of what is done with their data. And just as importantly, we are the primary cloud service provider, so every responsibility from provisioning and maintaining the cloud rests with NxtGen something that enables us to completely satisfy any and all needs for continuity and reliability. NxtGen drew on all of these attributes for the Electoral Commission of India. The platform, which performed flawlessly with 100% uptime, is all the more impressive for its extreme scale. The system handled elections for 544 constituencies, some 75o political parties, and 8,500 candidates. Using the system, more than 1 billion citizens cast their votes on the web, via mobile apps, and at one million voting stations manned by nearly 15 million staff members. At its peak, the high-performance system handled almost 700,000 user sessions per second while simultaneously thwarting numerous cyberattacks, including warnings involving state-actor led attacks. A singular platform based on VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) Notably, the entire NxtGen platform was based on VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF). Its comprehensive functionality is something Rajgopal notes is directly applicable to all organizations, including those in highly regulated industries like financial services and healthcare the company also serves not just government entities. VMware Cloud Foundation is just that, adds Rajgopal. Its a foundation and end-to-end cloud solution that allows us to leave no stone unturned and gives us solutions for every size and type of customer, as well as their unique requirements while reducing maintenance times, accelerating innovation like AI, and elevating security. Our cloud, powered by VMware by Broadcom technologies, enables us to not only provide a fully managed sovereign cloud but also to deliver any private, public, and hybrid cloud option the customer needs. And we can do all of this with a performance-to-cost ratio that beats the very largest hyperscalers while simultaneously providing a full range of services from Disaster Recovery-as-a-Service to Desktop-as-a-Service. But Rajgopal is quick to point out that success is not only defined by best-in-class technology. Other, less easily quantifiable qualities are also crucially important. Being a Broadcom Pinnacle Partner gives our customers a one-stop-shop for VMware-powered cloud, he says. We can offer a variety of deployment model options to choose from, integrated security, infinite scalability, and ironclad, low-latency infrastructure. But just as importantly, our customers gain the convenience only a partner that delivers the skills and experience needed to thrive in a hybrid cloud world delivers, and the peace of mind that is only possible when your workloads are securely running on trusted, proven technology overseen by a partner who is there 24/7/365. For more information on NxtGen visit here. Look to CIO.com for stories about the industry-leading providers in the Broadcom Advantage Program and insights on how they are helping enterprises succeed in their private, hybrid, and multi-cloud endeavors. local12.com, August 5, 2024 by RAY LEWIS WASHINGTON (TND) The U.S. Department of State could not prove it complied with counterterrorism vetting requirements on nearly $300 million in awards to Afghani programs, according to an inspector general report released last month. Two of the departments branches did not provide sufficient documents to the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) to prove they followed vetting procedures preventing awardees with terrorist ties from receiving funding, the report found. SIGAR determined that the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) were partly responsible for $293 million in awards that may have been given out in violation of the vetting requirements. INL only gave the watchdog vetting documents for three of 22 funding initiatives, with the rest of the materials missing due to employee turnover and the close of one of its offices, according to the report. DRL provided documents for three of seven of its awards, SIGAR found. The report notes that the Department of State requires all its bureaus to follow basic procedures and evaluate each programs risk before giving out funds. Kevin Covert, an official with the department, agreed there were discrepancies with the vetting requirements in a letter SIGAR included in its report. While the majority of the Departments Afghanistan-related awards fully complied with federal and Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM) partner vetting requirements, the Department acknowledges some of the gaps in compliance highlighted in the report on certain awards implemented in Afghanistan, he wrote. SIGAR recommended that Secretary of State Antony Blinken take immediate action to make sure that the bureaus follow the vetting procedures. This would allow lawmakers and watchdogs to better analyze risks posed by the departments spending, according to the report. Covert agreed with the suggestion. The Department takes vetting requirements seriously and continuously works to implement internal guidance, which helps ensure compliance with all applicable vetting requirements, he wrote. We remain committed to compliance with federal and FAM partner vetting and award document retention requirements to prevent the mishandling of U.S. taxpayer funds, the official added. SIGAR noted in its report that the risk of Taliban-created nonprofits receiving U.S. funds highlights the importance of the Department of State following its vetting requirements. As of September, many of the more than 1,000 organizations that have registered with Afghanistans Ministry of Economy have ties to the Taliban, according to the watchdog. The Taliban has tried to acquire U.S. funds through nonprofits, the report found. Aboneaza-te la rubricile dorite si primeste zilnic notificari pe email cu link-uri la articolele care au fost adaugate in ultimele 24 de ore. Notificarile vor fi expediate la adresa indicata mai jos. Daca doresti sa schimbi adresa - o poti modifica editand informatia de profil aici. By Chalabala, Adobe Some charities are concerned about being targeted by the riots taking place across the UK, sector umbrella body NCVO has said. NCVO chief executive Sarah Elliott urged charities to seek advice from the police or their local authority if they feel threatened. Her comments follow a Citizens Advice Sunderland office being damaged over the weekend and several other sites including mosques being attacked. Meanwhile, along with 80 anti-racist and migrant rights organisations, the Runnymede Trust has written to prime minister Keir Starmer asking for parliament to be recalled to address the scale of this crisis. The letter has been signed by charities including the Black Equity Organisation , Race Equality Foundation , Refugee Action and Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants. With 80 anti-racist and migrant rights organisations, we've written to @Keir_Starmer asking for Parliament to be recalled to address the scale of this crisis. The new govt must change the dial, and foster zero tolerance for far-right, racist and anti-migrant narratives. pic.twitter.com/h1pH2GMhWB Runnymede Trust (@RunnymedeTrust) August 5, 2024 Acts of violence perpetrated by thugs In a statement , Elliott described the riots as acts of violence perpetrated by thugs, in an attempt to fan the flames of racial hate and Islamophobia. She said it was an especially difficult time for our colleagues and friends from the global majority who have been made to feel unsafe in their own communities. Elliott added: Many charities will be affected, and some will be afraid of being targeted. Please seek advice from the police, or your local authority who will be working as part of the Local Resilience Forum, if you feel threatened. You are not alone, we stand alongside you, and as civil society, we will continue demonstrating unwavering commitment to those who are marginalised. By leading with empathy and compassion, we will unite against ignorance, malevolence and hate. And in the following weeks and months, we must continue to work towards a more tolerant and anti-racist society learning from the many charities who are working tirelessly in this space. The National Association for Voluntary and Community Action also published a statement yesterday condemning the violent disorder and pledging to work with the Voluntary and Community Sector Emergencies Partnership to support its members. Bond, the UK network for NGOs, said: Marginalised communities fleeing violence, conflict, climate change, and poverty deserve to feel safe, whether they are seeking refuge here in the UK or anywhere else in the world. We stand in solidarity with local communities across the UK who are supporting each other during these devastating times, and are pushing back against racist, Islamophobic rhetoric and violence, as well as the systemic racism that underlies it. Civil society organisations are on the front line The Civil Society Group issued a statement which reads: Civil society organisations are on the front line in the racist violence that is affecting many parts of the country. Their premises have been targeted, their services disrupted, and the communities that they serve left traumatised. As a group of civil society leaders, we reject and condemn the actions of those involved in the recent wave of violence. This violent and vociferous minority, fuelled by hatred, Islamophobia and misinformation, act in direct contrast to the values of a fair, just and inclusive society. Staff and volunteers working in civil society organisations will be feeling the same sense of shock and horror at the events of the past week that we are all experiencing, particularly those who are working with Muslim communities, or with migrants and refugees. Civil society exists to make the world a better place championing the voices of those who experience disadvantage and exclusion, providing lifeline services, and working to achieve social justice and cohesion. Civil society leaders will play a leading role in the community response to this violent unrest supporting those most affected, redoubling their efforts to maintain continuity, and playing their part in healing the harms caused by this lawless minority. We refuse to cower to hate Meanwhile, Ndidi Okezie, UK Youths chief executive, said the violence has had a profound impact on young people. I want to express our total solidarity with our Muslim, migrant and law enforcement community members. We stand firmly against any form of discrimination, violence or hatred, she said. We can see that real fears and frustrations are being weaponised by those who only seek to divide and sow hatred. Vulnerable young people are falling prey to these narratives and getting caught up in destructive actions. Youth workers are playing a vital role in helping young people recognise misinformation, reject extremism and engage different communities in positive dialogue. These are indeed challenging times, but we refuse to cower to hate. We draw strength and hope from the way young people and communities are coming together to push back against unrest and hate. We will get through this together. 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, A proposed registration threshold for charities in Northern Ireland should take into account organisations assets as well as their income, a key sector body has argued. In a response to a consultation by the Department for Communities (DfC), the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) welcomed the plans, which would exempt smaller organisations from having to register with the regulator in the devolved nation. The DfC has acknowledged this places an administrative burden on organisations that rely on volunteers, and can disproportionately drain their resources. But, NICVAs governance and charity advice manager Denise Copeland argued in response that the registration threshold should also take into account charitable assets, to ensure these can be protected by the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland. Copeland suggested an asset threshold of 100,000, in order to capture buildings that wouldnt necessarily be very high in monetary value, but that could potentially have significant value in terms of being an important community space. She added: We recognise that in the setting of an asset threshold, detailed guidance will need to be produced as there are various examples of types of ownership of assets within the sector, from corporate trustees and holding trustees to mortgages. The registration threshold, for which NICVA has long advocated, was provided for by then-minister for communities Deirdre Hargey as part of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. The current consultation, which covers the scope of the future threshold as well as other proposed reporting easements for small charities, runs until 11 August. Copeland added that NICVA warmly welcomes the thresholds introduction, with scope for organisations to deregister if they drop below the threshold, or remain on the register if they wish to retain charity status. Without a charity registration threshold, there is a real danger that existing small organisations are going to wind up rather than having to register and/or report annually to the Commission, she said. Trustees of some smaller organisations have told us, and other helper groups, that they find the regulations overwhelming. Call to ease smaller Scottish charities audit burden Separately, an accountancy body has pushed for an increase to the threshold at which charities in Scotland must complete an audit, after finding that the process can put twice the financial burden on smaller organisations compared with larger peers. Reviewing audit thresholds was a key element of the Scottish Governments recent review of charity regulation, which closed in late July. It followed calls from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland for politicians to remove mandatory audit requirements from smaller charities as a matter of urgency. These have now been echoed in a response to the government review by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). It said there was merit in bringing audit income thresholds, currently 500,000 in Scotland and Northern Ireland, into closer alignment with England and Wales, where they stand at 1m. Analysis by ACCA of a sample of around 50 charities showed that for those with a turnover under 1m that were subject to audit, the cost of the fee as a percentage of their annual income was on average 0.8%. This compared with 0.4% for charities with an income over 1m. Susan Love, ACCAs strategic engagement lead for Scotland, said that while the public rightly expects high standards of governance and transparency, we have an opportunity to relieve some cost pressure from charities currently subject to the rigour of the audit process. Love added: Better and more up-to-date regulations will not only ease the burden on small grassroots charities, but it will ensure their hard-earned fundraising will continue to go to the causes that need it most, freeing up time and money for charities to do their work. 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, Charity Governance Code A former trustee of the Charity Commission has said the voluntary Charity Governance Code is too managerial in tone and lacks sufficient guidance on strategy reviews. In a LinkedIn post , Andrew Purkis argued that the codes assertion that charity trustees core role is strategy, performance and assurance was too dry and boring. Every charity is based on a shared enthusiasm and love for a cause, and a quite crucial responsibility of the trustees is to be keepers of the flame, he wrote. They must ensure that a sense of shared enthusiasm for the cause animates and binds together the whole charity, overriding any causes of tension and disagreement. This should not be presented as a dry managerial matter. Meanwhile, the Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland (CGI) urged charities to respond to the consultation by the 11 August deadline . Too little about strategy Purkis argued that there is too little about strategy in the current code, including how to create, revise and review the strategy, what should be included in it, and how then to use it as a basis for monitoring performance. The strategy review is also an opportunity for the board to consider a key missing element in the code: what is the distinctive USP of the charity, what can it do that genuinely adds value to society and isnt just duplicating what others are doing or carrying on activities without reviewing regularly whether they are still relevant, he wrote. And its the opportunity to consider from time to time whether the balance between service delivery, advocacy and campaigning is the best one. He also echoed calls for the code to remain free to use . Deadline fast approaching Emily Ford, policy adviser at the CGI, said: This is your chance to make the Charity Governance Code work for you. Whether you use the code or not, and whatever size or type of charity you represent, we want to hear from you. The code was last updated in 2020, and we all know just how much the world has changed since then. With the consultation deadline fast approaching, make sure your views are included in this vital work to support governance outcomes across the sector. The UK has a world-class charity sector, and the Charity Governance Code has a key role in maintaining the high standards we expect from UK charities. 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, Political opinion columnist, Bloomberg, and former political columnist, the Sacramento Bee Courtesy Bloomberg. Illustration by Katie Kosma. From my perspectivefrom editorial board meetings, a couple of one-on-one interviews, and just going to press conferences and stuffshe has a personality of a lot of Black women in their fifties and sixties who were in the public eye. She can be very guarded of her messaging and her image. She likes to project what she wants to; she wants people to see her a certain way. Inevitably, as journalists, we try to see the full picture. Theres been a few times when Ive heard of colleagues who have written columns about herstories about her that are not quite what she wanted to conveyand her team has called back and been very dissatisfied. It always seems a little overbearing, but I took away from that that she just wanted to really craft her image and that was the only image that she wanted out there. But to talk to her one-on-oneI mean, shes extremely open and engaging and she has a great sense of humor. Shes obviously extremely intelligent, very talented. Shes very charismatic and shes very nice, but I think thatthis is my own speculation, conjecture, interpretation of yearsshe just likes to be seen the way she likes to be seen. I dont know if thats a reflection of the fact that as a woman of color and power, youre going to be subject to all of these, like, taxes. Its better to define your narrative before somebody defines it for you. I think theres just two sides to her. To some extent, a lot of the criticism thats been out there about her being not authentic or not genuine, particularly when she ran for president in 2020, comes from that duality of her team trying very hard to define what her narrative is going to be as a candidate, who she was, and then the natural course of just running a campaign and being surrounded by journalists, voters, and other people constantly picking at that narrative and being like, Oh, what about this? Or what about that? It comes out as muddled. She has spent so many years as attorney general, and previously in San Francisco as prosecutor, defining herself somewhere in the middle, willing to prosecute people. Then, because it was 2020, the tough-on-crime conversation shifted and suddenly she was on the wrong side. During the campaign, she tried to adjust to the politics on the ground, with people calling for criminal justice reform where she had always had this history of not necessarily going that way. She was trying to square the two. Politically, there were things that were very obvious, that most Californians would support, but she would just refuse to take an opinion on one way or the other. One of them was legalization of cannabis for adult use. California legalized cannabis for medical use in 95, but she didnt want to take a stand on whether it should be legal for adult use. Theres a series of policies like that where for anybody else, it wouldnt even be considered left for California, it would just be normal. She was just overly, overly cautious, and the expectation was that she was going to run for higher office, and she didnt want to be tied one way or another to a policy that may not be popular in five, six, seven years. The reality is the more she trusts people, the more shes willing to open up. Im not saying that Ive interviewed her enough to break that down, but I do know of reporters who have, where shell share recipes or other things. I dont think that shes not willing to talk about herself. Shes not going to talk about herself to everybody. I think that most Americans have never had a Black woman boss. They may not even know that many Black women beyond characters they see on TV. They may not even know anybody whos from California, either. In some ways, shes defining this territory. People are glomming expectations onto her, rightly or wrongly, based on their own experience. Thats something that complicates this whole conversation. But the thing about it is, when I talk to her, when I have interacted with her, shes exceedingly normal. A survey of nearly 1,000 IT and security professionals shows numerous organizations were targeted by ransomware attacks in the past year with a high degree of success, with most paying a ransommany of which paid multiple times. Semperis, a cyber resilience firm, conducted a poll of IT and security professionals at organizations spanning multiple industries across the US, UK, France and Germany. The firm says the results of the survey shows alarming trends in attack frequency, severity and consequences. The highlights of the Semperis survey include: 74% of respondents that were attacked for ransom in the past 12 months were attacked multiple timesmany within the span of a week. 78% of targeted organizations paid the ransom72% paid multiple times, and 33% of those paid ransom four times or more. 87% of attacks caused business disruptioneven for those that paid ransomincluding data loss and the need to take systems offline. For 16% of respondents, the attack created a life-or-death dilemma. 35% of victims that paid ransom either did not receive decryption keys or received corrupted keys. 49% of respondents needed one to seven days to recover business operations to minimal IT functionality after a ransomware attack, and 12% needed seven days or more. Semperis partnered with Censuswide, an international market research consultancy in London, to conduct a detailed study of global organizations experience with ransomware in the first half of 2024. The survey included 900 IT and security professionals across multiple industries, including education, finance, healthcare, manufacturing and utilities, IT and telecommunications, and travel and transportation. Eight Palestinians were killed, including four teenagers, and another seven were wounded by Israeli fire during military raids in the occupied West Bank, Palestinian officials said Tuesday, as world leaders try to stop tensions in the Middle East from boiling over into a regional war. An Israeli airstrike on a village in Lebanons south killed four people, the countrys Health Ministry said Tuesday. Later in the day, Lebanons Hezbollah launched a drone attack on northern Israel, wounding two people, in response to the killing of one of its fighters in an Israeli airstrike. Israel and Hezbollah have exchanged near-daily strikes for the past 10 months during the war in Gaza. Leaders in Egypt and Turkey say they are exhausting all avenues possible to prevent the Israel-Hamas war from becoming a wider regional conflict after the killings of a senior Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and Hamas top political leader in Iran. But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told his Cabinet over the weekend that Israel is already in a multi-front war with Iran and its proxies. The only corridor for humanitarian aid to enter southern Gaza has been shut down, apparently because of fighting in the area. The Palestinian territory has been plunged into a severe humanitarian crisis in the war ignited by Hamas Oct. 7 attack into Israel. Touching the Greater Bay Area: Guangzhou Airport well prepared to welcome international visitors 16:00, August 06, 2024 By Tian Yi ( People's Daily Online The third round of the "Touching the Greater Bay Area" cultural exchange program, co-organized by Guangdong Radio and Television and People's Daily Online (UK) commenced on Aug. 4, 2024, upon the arrival of four international students in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province. The four students are Li-xian Choong, Romano Tucci, and Rowan Humphreys from Cambridge University, and Zhu Bowen from Imperial College London. As they start an immersive and in-depth experience in the Greater Bay Area, they are welcomed by staff offering support for their travels. Photo shows Rowan Humphreys (second to the left), Romano Tucci (center), and Li-xian Choong (second to the right) at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, in Guangzhou city, south China's Guangdong Province. (Photo provided to People's Daily Online) After the students landed at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, they quickly set up their WeChat accounts and mobile payment services at a booth in Terminal 2 offering assistance to foreigners. WeChat Pay, the mobile payment platform developed by WeChat, and Alipay are two major mobile payment service platforms that are essential for convenient travel in China. Booth workers are in charge of assisting visitors in opening WeChat Pay and Alipay accounts, as well as helping them set up the car-hailing and public transportation services hosted on the two platforms. According to Cui Ying, a product manager of the WeChat Pay team, the company has simplified the activation process of WeChat accounts and WeChat Pay for foreign individuals. "Prior to the simplification, foreigners were required to upload their passports and bank cards. They also needed help from a friend with a WeChat account to complete the verification process. Now they only need to link their international bank cards. IDs are only required when their cumulative spending exceeds 15,000 yuan (approximately $2,095)," said Cui. Photo shows Roman Humphreys at the foreign visitor payment information booth at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, in Guangzhou city, south China's Guangdong Province. (Photo provided to People's Daily Online) Guangzhou offers 144-hour visa free entry for passport holders from 54 countries. In the first half of the year, 8.54 million international visitors visited China under visa-free policies, according to Chinas National Immigration Administration (NIA), marking a 190.1 percent year-on-year increase. In addition to setting up the mobile payment platforms, international visitors are offered a wide range of services conducive to their travels at Terminal 2 of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. They can access brochures for Guangzhou tourist attractions and take part in a one-day complimentary city tour. Photo shows the scenery of Guangzhou, in south China's Guangdong Province. (People's Daily Online/Tian Yi) In the booth, a blue-colored desk offers a one-day exclusive city tour for transit passengers, free of charge. Visitors will visit six tourist attractions, including the Guangdong Museum, Chen Clan Academy, and Yuexiu Park. A Cantonese-style dim sum lunch is also included. The tour runs every day from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the tour organizers will return the travelers to Terminal 2 to continue on their journeys. GZL International Travel Service offers the tour. For traveling enthusiasts or those with long layovers, a more comprehensive English brochure with tourist recommendations is also available at the airport. Tourist spots recommended include ancient villages, city center hotspots, camping sites, seasonal specialties, cultural heritages, and Cantonese food. The brochure also includes multiple traveling routes for visitors with different preferences. (Web editor: Chang Sha, Wu Chengliang) Elliott Investment Management on Monday said in a regulatory filing that it has a 7% beneficial ownership in Southwest Airlines , giving a breakdown of what it owns as it tries to overhaul management and improve financial performance. The 7% beneficial ownership is made up of 23.3 million common shares and 18.6 million physical derivative agreements, or physically settled swaps, the filing shows. In total, Elliott has a roughly 11% economic interest, which is made up of common stock and derivatives, a figure that has not changed since the hedge fund's stake in Southwest became public in June, the filing says. Investors are required to make a so-called 13D filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission after crossing a 5% ownership stake. The Elliott filing also offers clues to its possible plans. The firm said again that the airline is undervalued and that management and board change is required to help improve its strategy and performance. It is pushing for Bob Jordan, who has been CEO since 2022, and Gary Kelly, who is now executive chairman after having been CEO for years, to be replaced and it wants the board to be overhauled with new directors. In the filing on Monday, Elliott said again that it has identified executives who could become board candidates. And it said for the first time that it intends to allow shareholders a chance to vote on director candidates, whether at a special meeting or the annual meeting, laying the groundwork for a possible boardroom challenge. Activist investors can propose candidates for election at a company's regularly scheduled annual meeting or in some cases they might be able to call for a special meeting where an election could also be held. At Southwest, an investor may call for a special meeting only if that investor owns 10% of the company's common shares. At the moment Elliott owns less than 10% in common stock, but the hedge fund has been accumulating common shares rapidly, according to the filing. Southwest reacted to Elliott's investment by adopting a shareholder rights plan or poison pill that would kick in after one investor acquires 12.5% or more of the stock and allow other shareholders to buy more stock at a discount to try and prevent a takeover. The company also appointed a new director to the board in July. Elliott said in Monday's filing that it met with Jordan and members of the board at the company's headquarters. CEO Bob Jordan told CNBC last month "so, far Elliott has shown no willingness to engage in any meaningful conversation. We'd be happy to do that, but it is hard to have a dialogue that is one sided." Southwest's shares closed at $23.70 on Monday, down 5% on a day where the market fell broadly. Since the start of January, the stock price has dropped 17%. watch now Here are five key things investors need to know to start the trading day: 1. Trending down 2. Fix-it Fed Austan Goolsbee Getty Images As a global market sell-off ensued on Monday over recession fears, Chicago Federal Reserve President Austan Goolsbee said that the central bank would respond to economic weakness. "The Fed's job is very straightforward: maximize employment, stabilize prices and maintain financial stability. That's what we're going to do," he told CNBC's "Squawk Box." "We're forward-looking about it. So if the conditions collectively start coming in like that on the through line, there's deterioration on any of those parts, we're going to fix it." The central bank official also signaled that interest rates may be too restrictive, saying the Fed "should not be tightening or restrictive in real terms" if the economy isn't overheating. His remarks come as the central bank has held rates steady between 5.25% and 5.5% since July of last year. 3. Overruled \Trade fair visitors walk past a Google logo at the Google stand at Hannover Messe 2024. Julian Stratenschulte | Picture Alliance | Getty Images Google broke antitrust laws, according to a federal judge. On Monday, Google lost an antitrust case over its search dominance, with a federal judge ruling that the tech company has illegally maintained a monopoly over search as well as text advertising. "Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly," U.S. District Court Judge Amit Mehta wrote in the decision. The case, filed in 2020, is the first brought forth by the federal government against a major tech company in decades. "No company no matter how large or influential is above the law," Attorney General Merrick Garland wrote in a statement. "The Justice Department will continue to vigorously enforce our antitrust laws." 4. Out of OpenAI Getty Images One of the co-founders of OpenAI is leaving the Microsoft -backed company. In a post on X on Monday, co-founder John Schulman said he would leave OpenAI to join its rival Anthropic an Amazon -backed artificial intelligence startup. Schulman has worked at OpenAI since graduating from the University of California, Berkeley, in 2016 with a Ph.D. in computer science. He stressed that his decision to leave is due to his desire to focus more on AI alignment, an area that he said OpenAI leaders have been "very committed" to investing in. Less than three months ago, the company disbanded a superalignment team that focused on long-term AI risks. 5. Another one Tesla CEO Elon Musk (R) waits for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address a joint meeting of Congress in the chamber of the House of Representatives at the U.S. Capitol on July 24, 2024 in Washington, DC. Kent Nishimura | Getty Images (This is CNBC Pro's live coverage of Tuesday's analyst calls and Wall Street chatter. Please refresh every 20-30 minutes to view the latest posts.) A chipmaker and a beleaguered cybersecurity stock were among the stocks being talked about by analysts on Tuesday. Morgan Stanley named Taiwan Semiconductor a top pick. Meanwhile, Piper Sandler upgraded CrowdStrike to overweight from neutral. Check out the latest calls and chatter below. All times ET. 7:43 a.m.: Morgan Stanley removes Amazon as top pick after earnings disappointment Morgan Stanley is lowering its outlook on Amazon , citing margin pressures tied to the company's product mix and ongoing consumer weakness that are weighing on its profits. Analyst Brian Nowak maintained his overweight rating on Amazon in a Tuesday note, but removed the e-commerce giant as a top pick and lowered his price target to $210. That suggests 30.4% potential upside from the stock's latest close. "We were wrong about the slope of retail profit improvements," Nowak said. Amazon's mix shift towards lower margin items and its lower average selling price, or ASP, coupled with a slower-than-expected ramp in advertising are all weighing on the company's profits more than the analyst had expected. Amazon reported weaker-than-expected second-quarter revenue on Thursday and posted a disappointing forecast for the current quarter. "Valuation is not demanding now," the analyst continued. "But in our view AMZN needs to demonstrate an ability to deliver growth and profitability...even as its product mix continues to shift toward lower margin items." Shares are up roughly 6% this year, but have slid 19.5% over the past month. Pia Singh 7:13 a.m.: Bank of America upgrades Apollo Global Management to buy, sees 24% return post sell-off Apollo Global Management looks even more attractive after its recent pullback, according to Bank of America. Analyst Craig Siegenthaler upgraded the asset management firm to buy from neutral and kept his $123 price target. That implies 24% potential upside for the stock, which is up 6.4% this year. APO YTD mountain APO year to date The company's second-quarter earnings results, weak economic data and lower interest rate outlook have driven shares down by nearly 21% since the start of August, particularly as hedge funds were de-risked last week, the analyst noted. He's bullish on the stock after this extreme sell-off, however, saying the stock has an attractive valuation relative to its EPS growth algorithm. "Our view is the APO long is a lot less crowded among hedge funds. This is partly due to a greater focus on the qualities of the captive insurance model (rising liability costs & lower interest rates) in addition to some longer-term concerns with increasing competition in the US annuity market," he said in a Tuesday note. According to Siegenthaler, Apollo's Investor Day on Oct. 1 and its likely upcoming addition to the S & P 500, following the additions of KKR and Blackstone, could drive the stock higher. Pia Singh 6:48 a.m.: Loop Capital increases price target on Meta on AI growth story Loop Capital thinks Meta's solid quarterly report makes the company a "best-in-class" growth play as its generative AI capabilities advance. Analyst Rob Sanderson maintained his buy rating on the Facebook parent after the company last week reported better-than-expected quarterly profit and revenue for the second quarter. He increased his price target by $25 to $575, which suggests shares can jump about 20.9% over the next year. "While 2Q reporting season has revealed signs of softness at more brand-oriented ad platforms, Meta continues to deliver superior growth despite its greater revenue scale," Sanderson wrote in a Monday note. "We are increasingly optimistic about the company's expanding opportunity set as it deploys more genAI applications across its massive base of users." Sanderson mentioned that Meta management said the company's investment in core AI, such as content ranking and ads, is already generating a strong return on investment. Meta shares are up more than 34% this year. Pia Singh 6:32 a.m.: Citi upgrades AI play Lumen ahead of post-market earnings announcement Telecommunications firm Lumen Technologies' latest customer deals could secure the stock's AI growth story, according to Citi analyst Michael Rollins. Rollins upgraded the stock to neutral from sell and upped his price target from $1.25 to $3.15 per share, which implies roughly 21.6% potential upside. The stock soared more than 42% in premarket trading Monday ahead of its earnings due after market close. Lumen recently announced new deals worth $5 billion from cloud and tech companies and indicated a sales pipeline of $7 billion as more companies move into AI. Lumen provides network services for data centers. "The announced new business are likely to provide the company with financial flexibility to eventually reduce net debt leverage, improve go-forward financial performance, and open up strategic scenarios that could include an eventual split between the ILEC and business segment," Rollins said in a note. Pia Singh 6:10 a.m.: Stifel initiates GE Healthcare with a buy rating Investors should pick up shares of GE Healthcare , which is poised to see accelerated growth over time, according to Stifel. Analyst Rick Wise initiated coverage of GE Healthcare with a buy rating and $100 price target, which suggests 22.7% upside. Shares are up 5.4% this year. "We believe the GEHC stage is set favorably for continued mid-single-digit (or better) growth, meaningful operating margin expansion, and strong FCF generation," Wise said in a note. According to the analyst, GE Healthcare "represents a classic MedTech spin-off story" that will benefit from improved management and commercial execution, stronger focus on cost reductions, innovation-related investments and M & A that helps increase growth and margins. The company's end-markets total roughly $87 billion and should grow at a mid-single digit pace annually, he said. Wise also pointed to to "underappreciated" early-stage pharmaceutical diagnostics products, Flurpiridaz and Vizamyl, that could increase the company's revenue growth potential over time. Pia Singh 5:49 a.m.: Piper Sandler upgrades CrowdStrike, says investors should buy the dip Piper Sandler thinks CrowdStrike can make a strong rebound from the crises surrounding the global tech outage and that investors should take advantage of the event. Analyst Rob Owens upgraded the global cybersecurity company to overweight from neutral and lowered his price target by $20 to $290, which implies 30.6% upside. Although he lowered his target due to estimate reductions on the stock, he thinks shares are now trading at a compelling risk/reward level. CrowdStrike shares have plunged 43% over the past month since the company issued a software update, which affected millions of computers running Microsoft's Windows operating system, leading to global outages across different industries. Delta Air Lines is seeking damages from CrowdStrike and Microsoft after the outage. CRWD 1M mountain CRWD 1-mo chart Owens thinks CrowdStrike "did a good job" in handling the global outage and preserving customer relationships. Its strong cash flow generation, and insurance for these kinds of incidents, should help preserve costs tied to the Delta lawsuit, Owens said. "Even though the near-term news cycle will likely revolve around litigations / settlements, congressional testimony and ensuing numbers cuts ahead of and on F'2Q earnings, the ramifications of the event will likely be more-so short-lived and at negligible cost, in our view," Owens said in a Tuesday note. "With shares down sharply for the month, we believe investors should opportunistically build positions at current levels. " Pia Singh 5:49 a.m.: Morgan Stanley names Taiwan Semiconductor a top pick Investors should consider buying the recent dip in Taiwan Semiconductor shares, according to Morgan Stanley. The bank named the chipmaker a top pick, maintaining an overweight rating on the stock. Its price target of 1,200 Taiwanese dollars implies upside of 36.4%. TSM mountain 2024-06-28 TSM in Q3 Taiwan Semiconductor has been under pressure this quarter, as investors pare back exposure to tech winners after a strong start to the year. Quarter to date, the U.S.-listed stock is down 14.9%. "We like TSMC's quality and defensive nature during an elongated semi downcycle. Price hike confirmation and ongoing AI capex strength should be key catalysts," analyst Charlie Chan wrote. "Following the sector's recent broad selloff, we think TSMC is attractive again at 16x our 2025 EPS estimate with higher quality company operations and financial outlook," Chan added. Fred Imbert Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina addresses the media at a vandalized metro station in Mirpur, after the anti-quota protests. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday after hundreds of people were killed in a crackdown on demonstrations that began as protests against job quotas and swelled into a movement demanding her ouster. Jubilant crowds stormed unopposed into the opulent grounds of the presidential residence, carrying out looted furniture and TVs. One man balanced a red velvet, gilt-edged chair on his head. Another held an armful of vases. Elsewhere in Dhaka, protesters climbed atop a statue of Hasina's father, state founder Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and began chiselling away at the head with an axe. The flight into exile ended a 15-year second stint in power for Hasina, who has ruled for 20 of the last 30 years as leader of the political movement inherited from her father, assassinated with most of his family in a 1975 coup. Hasina had left the country for her own safety at the insistence of her family, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy told the BBC World Service. Hasina was "so disappointed that after all her hard work, for a minority to rise up against her," Joy said. She would not attempt to mount a political comeback, he said. Earlier, army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced Hasina's resignation in a televised address to the nation and said an interim government would be formed. He said he had held talks with leaders of major political parties excluding Hasina's long-ruling Awami League - and would soon meet President Mohammed Shahabuddin to discuss the way ahead. "The country is going through a revolutionary period," said Zaman, 58, who had taken over as army chief only on June 23. "I promise you all, we will bring justice to all the murders and injustice. We request you to have faith in the army of the country," he said. "Please don't go back to the path of violence and please return to non-violent and peaceful ways." The military spokesperson's office said that a curfew would be in force from midnight on Monday until 6 a.m. on Tuesday, after which all schools, factories, colleges and universities would be open. Hasina's government had imposed an indefinite curfew from Sunday evening and a three-day general holiday from Monday. In January, U.S. bitcoin miner Core Scientific was bankrupt and battling angry lenders. Since its return to the stock market that month, the share price is up 140% as the company aggressively goes after building a business in artificial intelligence. On Tuesday, the mining firm announced an expanded deal worth $6.7 billion with CoreWeave, an Nvidia-backed startup that's one of the main providers of the chipmaker's technology for running AI models. Core Scientific will deliver an additional 112 megawatts of computing infrastructure to support CoreWeave's operations. Core Scientific said the deal will generate an additional $2 billion in revenue over 12 years, on top of an existing arrangement that's expected to bring in $4.7 billion. In total, the company plans to provide about 382 megawatts of infrastructure to CoreWeave by the first half of 2026, with the possibility of adding 118 megawatts at other Core Scientific sites. Sites are expected to see modifications begin in the second half of 2024 and to be fully operational by the first half of 2026. "We've seen tremendous growth since our emergence in January and have been laser focused on developing best-in-class digital infrastructure," Core Scientific CEO Adam Sullivan told CNBC. "This infrastructure advantage has allowed us to diversify revenue and reallocate certain facilities to address the growing need" for the type of technology required for AI. watch now The recent rapid strengthening of the Japanese yen can be seen as an overdue and healthy correction and it's not time to panic about the wider market impact, the former head of the European Central Bank said Tuesday. A combination of Japanese monetary policy turning hawkish, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and disappointing U.S. jobs data rattled markets around the world across Friday and Monday, Jean-Claude Trichet told CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe." "The three have played their role, in my opinion, in triggering this [U.S. dollar-yen] correction which was nevertheless overdue, because everybody knew that the yen was not in an appropriate position, and the carry trade had been, I would say, very active during a long period of time," Trichet, also formerly the governor of France's central bank, said. A "correction" is generally defined as a drop in the value of an asset or index by 10% or more, returning it closer to a long-term trend. A carry trade involves an investor borrowing a currency with low interest rates and reinvesting it in higher-yielding assets elsewhere taking advantage of that differential to make a financial gain. Investors piled into yen carry trades in recent years, attracted by Japan's low volatility and ultra-loose monetary policy. Stock Chart Icon Stock chart icon U.S. dollar/Japanese yen But a rapid appreciation in the yen began last Wednesday, when the Bank of Japan raised its benchmark interest rate and set out a plan to taper its bond-buying program. The U.S. dollar plunged nearly 5% against the yen last week, and lost further ground on Monday though ticked 0.5% higher Tuesday. Global stock markets meanwhile plunged as "safe haven" assets such as the Swiss franc and U.S. Treasurys were bolstered. "You can't unwind the biggest carry trade the world has ever seen without breaking a few heads," Kit Juckes, chief foreign exchange strategist at Societe Generale, said in a Monday note. Trichet told CNBC Tuesday: "The correction can be seen as a healthy correction, in some respects. We will see, of course, we have to remain extremely prudent and cautious, but we have good explanations for the correction we ... observed last Friday and yesterday." "It was overdue, probably, and we have a set of positives in the U.S., in Europe, in the global economy, which are there still and are justifying no panic no panic, which, it seems to me, is very, very important in the present juncture." "I don't see a reason to panic on the United States," Trichet added, pointing to the U.S. composite purchasing managers' index for July, which remained in growth territory. U.S. recession talk erupted last week following a weaker-than-expected July jobs report, though some economists and Federal Reserve policymakers dismissed the idea that the data indicated a severe downturn. watch now Model Y cars are pictured during the opening ceremony of the new Tesla Gigafactory for electric cars in Gruenheide, Germany, March 22, 2022. European drugstore giant Rossmann announced Tuesday it will no longer buy Tesla 's electric vehicles for its fleet, effective immediately, citing CEO Elon Musk's pro-Trump political support. Rossmann, based in Germany, said in a statement that its decision was "based on the incompatibility between the statements of Tesla CEO Elon Musk and the values that Tesla represents with its products." "Elon Musk makes no secret of his support for Donald Trump," Raoul Rossmann, a spokesperson for the company, said in a statement. "Trump has repeatedly described climate change as a hoax - this attitude is in stark contrast to Tesla's mission to contribute to environmental protection through the production of electric cars." While Rossmann only purchases about 180 electric vehicles a year and only had 38 Teslas in its fleet, according to Bloomberg the company's decision to cut all Tesla EV purchases shows that Musk's political decisions have begun to impact the automaker well beyond the U.S. Musk formally endorsed Trump last month, and said he was contributing funds to a pro-Trump group he helped create called America PAC. Musk is also slated to interview the former president, Trump announced Tuesday. During a debate with President Joe Biden in June, Trump dodged questions about what he would do, if anything, to combat climate change. And Trump has called climate change a "hoax." He has also promised to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris climate agreement, as he did during his presidency, if he is elected in November. According to ongoing research by Morning Consult, Republicans in the U.S. began to view Musk more favorably following his leveraged buyout of Twitter (now known as X) in late 2022. However, this has not driven an increase in Republicans' "purchasing consideration" of electric vehicles here. According to Pew Research, Musk's reputation with left-leaning voters has declined even though they are far more likely to purchase an EV. Rossman's decision follows a recent survey that found a deterioration in Tesla's brand, attributed partly to Musk's "antics" and "political rants." While Tesla's revenue increased 2% during the second quarter, automotive revenue dropped 7% to $19.9 billion from $21.27 billion in the same quarter a year ago. Tesla opened a factory in 2022 in Brandenburg, Germany, (outside of Berlin) and employs thousands in the country. At the end of 2023, drugstore chain Rossmann reported that it had more than 4,700 stores and more than 60,000 employees with about half in Germany. Tesla has faced protests by environmental activists in Germany who took issue with the company's plans to cut down part of a forest and to use water for manufacturing in Brandenburg. Musk lashed out at protesters there, saying on X in March they're "either the dumbest eco-terrorists on Earth or they're puppets of those who don't have good environmental goals." Tesla, Musk and representatives for Rossmann did not respond to requests for further details on Tuesday morning. Correction: This article has been updated to correct the day when Tesla, Musk and representatives for Rossmann did not respond to requests for further details. Federal prosecutors have charged Asif Merchant, a Pakistani national with alleged ties to Iran, in a murder for hire plot of a U.S. politician or government officials. A Pakistani national with ties to Iran was charged in a foiled plot to assassinate U.S. government officials on American soil, the Department of Justice said Tuesday. Former President Donald Trump was one of the potential targets of the plot by Asif Merchant, who was arrested on July 12 in Texas before any attacks could be carried out, a senior law enforcement source told NBC News. Merchant unwittingly coordinated with a confidential law enforcement source, who put him in touch with two more undercover agents purporting to be hitmen, the DOJ said. Trump was nearly killed at a presidential campaign rally one day after Merchant's arrest, when a would-be assassin on a nearby rooftop fired at the Republican nominee while he was speaking onstage. Law enforcement officials do not believe the alleged plot by Merchant is related to the assassination attempt against Trump at the rally in Pennsylvania, NBC reported. Trump's Secret Service protection was increased prior to that rally, after U.S. officials learned of an Iranian plot to kill Trump, NBC reported in mid-July. Trump has been a focus of Iran's anger since January 2020, when he authorized the killing of a top Iranian general in Iraq. U.S. Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris holds a campaign rally with her newly chosen vice presidential running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., August 6, 2024. Elizabeth Frantz | Reuters Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, her newly minted running mate, made their first public appearance together at a a rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening. "I couldn't be prouder to be on this ticket," Walz said to an excited crowd that numbered more than 12,000, according to the Harris campaign. "Thank you for bringing back the joy." "Since the day that I announced my candidacy, I set out to find a partner who can help build this brighter future," Harris said in her own rally speech Tuesday. "I found such a leader: Governor Tim Walz of the great state of Minnesota." Two weeks ago, Walz was a relatively unknown Democrat on the national stage. But his sharp, plain-spoken media interviews, paired with his compelling Midwest, middle-class profile soon catapulted him onto Harris' VP short list. The Harris campaign officially announced Walz as her running mate Tuesday morning, solidifying the Democratic ticket with just 91 days until the election. U.S. Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris reacts as she holds a campaign rally with her newly chosen vice presidential running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., August 6, 2024. Elizabeth Frantz | Reuters Walz directed sharp critiques at the Republican ticket of former President Donald Trump and Ohio Sen. JD Vance, some of which drew laughs from the audience. "Make no mistake, violent crime was up under Donald Trump," Walz said, "and that's not even counting the crimes he committed." The Minnesota governor also worked to draw a sharp contrast between himself and Vance, who has built much of his political biography on representing Midwestern values. "Like all the regular people I grew up with in the heartland, JD studied at Yale, had his career funded by Silicon Valley billionaires, and then wrote a bestseller trashing that community," Walz quipped. Harris used her speech to draw attention to several elements of Walz's biography: his time serving in the Army National Guard; his decades-long career as a high school teacher and football coach, and his time advising the school's gay-straight alliance. Harris also debuted some new lines in her evolving stump speech, which sounded tailor made to appeal to moderates and political independents. "My promise to you is this: Our campaign will reach out to everyone, from red states to blue states, from the heartland to the coast, in rural, urban, suburban and tribal communities," Harris said, underscoring the campaign's strategy to use Walz to expand the Democratic coalition. "We are running a campaign on behalf of all Americans," she said. In the hours since Walz was announced as her running mate, the campaign has released new Harris-Walz merchandise, as well as several advertisements introducing Walz and social media statements. Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz appear on stage together during a campaign event at Girard College on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Andrew Harnik | Getty Images The campaign said it raised $20 million in donations after Walz was announced, a drop in the bucket relative to the $310 million the campaign hauled in July alone. Over the past two weeks, Walz went through an accelerated VP vetting process, along side fellow contenders like Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear. Shapiro, reportedly the second-strongest contender, joined the Harris-Walz rally in his home state Tuesday evening and gave a roaring speech supporting the ticket, despite ultimately being passed up for the VP job. "I'm gonna be working my tail off to make sure we make Kamala Harris and Tim Walz the next leaders of the United States of America," Shapiro told the crowd. "Tim Walz is a great patriot. I'll tell you what else: Tim Walz is a dear friend." U.S. Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris and her newly chosen vice presidential running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz react as they hold a campaign rally in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., August 6, 2024. Elizabeth Frantz | Reuters A general view of the Baker Library/Bloomberg Center on February 17, 2024, at Harvard Business School in Allston, MA. Harvard University failed to persuade a U.S. judge to dismiss a lawsuit in which Jewish students accused the Ivy League school of letting its campus become a bastion of antisemitism. Without ruling on the merits, U.S. District Judge Richard Stearns said the plaintiffs plausibly alleged that Harvard's response to on-campus incidents was inadequate, and that "the facts as pled show that Harvard failed its Jewish students." Stearns said he was also "dubious" that Harvard could hide behind the argument that some of the challenged on-campus activity was protected by the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment. Students sued in January, accusing Harvard of selectively enforcing its anti-discrimination policies to avoid protecting Jewish students from harassment, ignoring their pleas for protection, and hiring professors who supported anti-Jewish violence and spread antisemitic propaganda. Harvard and its lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Lawyers for the students did not immediately respond to similar requests. Stearns found sufficient allegations that Harvard acted with deliberate indifference toward its Jewish population. "To conclude that the (complaint) has not plausibly alleged deliberate indifference would reward Harvard for virtuous public declarations that for the most part, according to the allegations of the (complaint), proved hollow when it came to taking disciplinary measures against offending students and faculty," he wrote. The lawsuit sought an injunction to stop Harvard's alleged violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which bars federal funds recipients from allowing discrimination based on race, religion and national origin. It was filed eight days after former Harvard President Claudine Gay resigned, after coming under fire for her handling of antisemitism following Hamas' Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel and Israel's invasion of Gaza in response. Gay also faced plagiarism allegations. Microsoft fired back at Delta Air Lines on Tuesday accusing the carrier of not modernizing its technology before it canceled thousands of flights in the wake of last month's global massive IT outage. Delta CEO Ed Bastian told CNBC last week that the carrier has "no choice" but to seek damages from Microsoft and CrowdStrike for the mass disruptions, which he said cost the company, an airline that prides itself on reliability, about $500 million. Delta struggled more than rival airlines to recover from the outage, canceling more than 5,000 flights in the days following the July 19 incident, which was sparked by a botched software update from CrowdStrike and affected millions of computers running Microsoft Windows. Mark Cheffo, a Dechert partner representing Microsoft, said in a letter Tuesday to Delta's attorney David Boies of Boies Schiller Flexner, said Microsoft is still trying to figure out why American Airlines , United Airlines and others were able to recover more quickly than Delta. "Our preliminary review suggests that Delta, unlike its competitors, apparently has not modernized its IT infrastructure, either for the benefit of its customers or for its pilots and flight attendants," Cheffo wrote. Delta responded on Tuesday that it has "a long track record of investing in safe, reliable and elevated service for our customers and employees. "Since 2016, Delta has invested billions of dollars in IT capital expenditures, in addition to the billions spent annually in IT operating costs," Delta said in response to the Tuesday letter from Microsoft," the airline said in a statement. In a July 29 letter, Boies told Microsoft's chief legal officer, Hossein Nowbar: "We have reason to believe Microsoft has failed to comply with contractual requirements and otherwise acted in a grossly negligent, indeed willful, manner in connection with the Faulty Update" from CrowdStrike that caused Windows computers to crash, Boies told Microsoft's chief legal officer, Hossein Nowbar, in a letter dated July 29. Microsoft lawyer Cheffo wrote in his response that the company empathizes with Delta and its customers on the impact of the CrowdStrike incident. "But your letter and Delta's public comments are incomplete, false, misleading, and damaging to Microsoft and its reputation," he said. Microsoft's letter followed a similar one from CrowdStrike on Sunday rejecting claims from the Atlanta-based airline. Cheffo wrote that Microsoft offered to help Delta for free. Each day from July 19 to July 23, Microsoft employees said they could help, but Delta turned them away, according to the letter. Delta CEO Bastian told CNBC's Squawk Box" that CrowdStrike didn't offer any financial compensation but did extend "free consulting advice" on dealing with the fallout from the outage. The ChatGPT chat screen on a smartphone arranged in the Brooklyn borough of New York, US, on Thursday, March 9, 2023. ChatGPT has made writing computer code and cheating on homework easier. Soon, it could make email scams a cinch. That's the warning from Darktrace Plc, the British cybersecurity firm. OpenAI co-founder John Schulman said in a Monday X post that he would leave the Microsoft -backed company and join Anthropic, an artificial intelligence startup with funding from Amazon . The move comes less than three months after OpenAI disbanded a superalignment team that focused on trying to ensure that people can control AI systems that exceed human capability at many tasks. Schulman had been a co-leader of OpenAI's post-training team that refined AI models for the ChatGPT chatbot and a programming interface for third-party developers, according to a biography on his website. In June, OpenAI said Schulman, as head of alignment science, would join a safety and security committee that would provide advice to the board. Schulman has only worked at OpenAI since receiving a Ph.D. in computer science in 2016 from the University of California, Berkeley. "This choice stems from my desire to deepen my focus on AI alignment, and to start a new chapter of my career where I can return to hands-on technical work," Schulman wrote in the social media post. He said he wasn't leaving because of a lack of support for new work on the topic at OpenAI. "On the contrary, company leaders have been very committed to investing in this area," he said. The leaders of the superalignment team, Jan Leike and company co-founder Ilya Sutskever, both left this year. Leike joined Anthropic, while Sutskever said he was helping to start a new company, Safe Superintelligence Inc. Since OpenAI staff members established Anthropic in 2021, the two young San Francisco-based businesses have been battling to have the most performant generative AI models that can come up with human-like text. Amazon, Google and Meta have also developed large language models. "Very excited to be working together again!" Leike wrote in reply to Schulman's message. Sam Altman, OpenAI's co-founder and CEO, said in a post of his own that Schulman's perspective informed the startup's early strategy. Schulman and others chose to leave after the board pushed out Altman as chief last November. Employees protested the decision, prompting Sutskever and two other board members, Tasha McCauley and Helen Toner, to resign. Altman was reinstated and OpenAI took on additional board members. Toner said on a podcast that Altman had given the board incorrect information about the "small number of formal safety processes that the company did have in place." The law firm WilmerHale found in an independent review that the board wasn't concerned about product safety when it pushed out Altman. Last week, Altman said on X that OpenAI "has been working with the US AI Safety Institute on an agreement where we would provide early access to our next foundation model so that we can work together to push forward the science of AI evaluations." Altman said OpenAI is still committed to keeping 20% of its computing resources for safety initiatives. Also on Monday, Greg Brockman, another co-founder of OpenAI and its president, announced that he was taking a sabbatical for the rest of the year. WATCH: OpenAI announces a search engine called SearchGPT Check out the companies making headlines before the bell: Palantir Technologies The data analytics company rallied 11% after raising its full-year revenue forecast. Palantir now sees revenue between $2.74 billion and $2.75 billion. That's up from a range of $2.68 billion to $2.69 billion. Yum China Shares surged 8% after the Shanghai-based operator behind Pizza Hut and Taco Bell posted second-quarter earnings that beat expectations. Adjusted earnings of 55 cents per share topped the 47 cents per share anticipated by analysts surveyed by LSEG. On the other hand, revenue of $2.68 billion disappointed the consensus estimate of $2.77 billion. Separately, the fast food company announced its finance chief is stepping down. Uber Technologies Shares popped 6% after the ride-hailing company posted better-than-expected financial results for its second quarter. Earnings came in at 47 cents per share, topping the 31 cents expected from analysts polled by LSEG. Revenue was $10.7 billion, above the $10.57 billion consensus estimate. Caterpillar The industrial giant popped 3.54% on the back of better-than-expected quarterly results. The company earned $5.99 per share on revenue of $16.69 billion in the second quarter. Analysts expected a profit of $5.54 per share on revenue of $16.68 billion. CrowdStrike The cybersecurity stock rose 3% after Piper Sandler upgraded the company to overweight from neutral, saying the dip is a buying opportunity. Semiconductors Chip stocks rose as a group, one day after a brutal sell-off in tech names. Nvidia gained 3%, Super Micro Computer and Broadcom popped 2%, and Intel rose nearly 2%. ZoomInfo Technologies Shares of the customer acquisition platform company plunged 14% after a second-quarter earnings report that missed estimates. ZoomInfo reported 17 cents in adjusted earnings per share on $292 million of revenue. Analysts surveyed by LSEG had penciled in 23 cents per share and $308 million of revenue. The company also lowered its earnings guidance and announced a change at chief financial officer. Lucid Group The electric vehicle stock rallied 11% after Lucid's second-quarter revenue topped estimates. The company reported revenue of $200.6 million, above the LSEG consensus estimate of $192 million. Lucid also reaffirmed previous guidance for vehicle production of roughly 9,000 in 2024. CSX The stock gained 3.6% after the rail transportation holding company posted stronger-than-expected earnings. CSX reported earnings of 49 cents per share in the second quarter, above the 48 cents anticipated by analysts in an LSEG survey. Revenue of $3.7 billion came in line with forecasts. CNBC's Michelle Fox, Fred Imbert and Jesse Pound contributed reporting. President Joe Biden visiting a library in Culver City, California, on Feb. 21, 2024. Irfan Khan | Los Angeles Times | Getty Images As the Biden administration prepares to forgive the student debt of tens of millions of borrowers a move experts say could happen as soon as October it has issued new guidance on who will most likely be eligible for the relief. That is an important distinction from President Joe Biden's first effort at sweeping student loan cancellation. With this attempt, the U.S. Department of Education revised its forgiveness plan to be more targeted, with the hope that this aid package survives the inevitable next round of legal challenges. The Department of Education is still working out the details of the plan, and will notify eligible borrowers soon. "Once these rules are finalized, 30 million Americans will get to benefit and experience the life-changing impact of student debt cancellation," said Aissa Canchola Banez, policy director at the Student Borrower Protection Center. These are the four groups that stand to benefit from partial or full debt relief if the plan survives the next round of lawsuits. 1. Borrowers who owe more than at start of repayment 2. Those already eligible for relief The Department of Education could also forgive the debt of the many borrowers who are eligible for relief but either have not enrolled in the right program or have not applied for the aid yet. Many student loan borrowers are not aware of the relief options available to them, such as income-driven repayment plans and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, consumer advocates say. 3. People who have been paying for many years If you have only undergraduate student loans and entered repayment on or before July 1, 2005, you will likely be eligible for the aid. For those with just graduate loans, or a mix of undergraduate and graduate debt, repayment must have begun on or before July 1, 2000, according to the Department of Education guidance. watch now Those who have consolidated their loans along the way should not worry that their timeline reset. The Department of Education says it will look into when those underlying loans initially entered repayment. 4. Attendees of troubled schools While several tech giants have taken a hit amid the crushed hype around artificial intelligence, Palantir Technologies is an AI beneficiary that is here to stay, according to Bank of America. Analyst Mariana Mora reiterated her buy rating on the data analytics company and lifted her price target to $30 from $28, suggesting the stock can jump 24.5% from its Monday close. "We liken the market, industry, and investor attitudes toward AI to that of the California gold rush," Mora wrote in a Tuesday note to clients, adding that the "AI rush" appears to have run dry given the recent tech sell-off. "As it was with the gold rush, the real benefactors were the entrepreneurs that supported the rush. This is where we continue to see PLTR's ultimate benefactor the entrepreneur the digital axe supplier that is still standing tall now that the AI tourists have started to depart," the analyst added. On Tuesday, Palantir rose 11% after hiking its 2024 revenue forecast and also posting its largest ever quarterly profit for the second-quarter period, reinvigorating investors' faith in the generative AI boom. The software company also issued a third-quarter sales forecast that was above estimates. Shares are up more than 57% this year. Mora updated her estimates on Palantir to support its stronger-than-expected momentum in attracting U.S. commercial and government customers. The analyst noted that Palantir's second-quarter sales in its commercial business were up 55% year over year, defeating concerns about constrained IT capital expenditures. She attributed that growth to Palantir's boot camp go-to-market strategy to attract clients, which entails helping companies find useful AI cases and implementation plans within a shortened time frame. Mora said she expects the company to see more tailwinds from this tactic given that more than 1,000 companies have already attended a Palantir boot camp in one year. She also maintained her optimism on Palantir's government business. "PLTR is well-positioned as enriched data, connectivity, and interoperability are what define the new era of defense," the analyst said. Mora noted that Palantir was recently awarded an Open DAGIR contract from the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office, or CDAO, adding to its ability to scale AI capabilities to the Department of Defense, across areas such as space, cyber, electronic warfare and logistics. Open DAGIR stands for Open Data and Applications Government-owned Interoperable Repositories, and refers to an initiative announced in May that will bring in software developers to create new applications for combatant commands. She expects Palantir to continue winning new awards from the U.S. government, as she said the CDAO remains "in its infancy" with its AI initiatives. Morgan Stanley noted earlier Tuesday that Palantir's "deep technical expertise" is a valuable asset, but that the company's value is already reflected in its premium valuation multiple. The firm kept its underweight rating and $20 price target on the stock. Deutsche Bank similarly stayed on the sidelines and reiterated its sell rating on shares in a Monday note, saying the stock is already among, if not the richest, of its software peers. Shortly after Allison Kave moved from the U.S. to Paris in 2022, she walked into a local cafe, sat down and ordered a martini. Instead of the traditional gin cocktail, she was served a glass of vermouth. The mix-up was actually reassuring, Kave says: The city's inconsistent cocktail expertise was exactly why she'd moved abroad. Kave and fellow American ex-pat Jennifer Crain are the co-founders of Abricot, a cocktail bar in Paris' 10th arrondissement. Crain came up with the idea after her own experience in Parisian bars. She grew up near San Francisco, and "really felt the absence of fabulous cocktails and indulgent plant-based food" abroad, she says. Abricot opened in February 2023, and brought in nearly $285,800 in U.S. dollars in the last 12 months, according to documents reviewed by CNBC Make It. The bar brought in $34,100 in September, their highest earning month, but that revenue varies in the summer, based on the influx of tourism and locals leaving the city for vacation, they say. The bar has a small staff: three hourly employees and three contract employees. Crain and Kave decide month-to-month how much to pay themselves, depending on the bar's performance but they say that the trans-Atlantic move was already worth it, no matter how much money they make. "Day-to-day ... there's an ease to living here," Kave, 44, says. That comes from the patient and conversational customers, and the locals' focus on leisure and culture, she adds. "Overworking isn't a badge of honor [here]," Crain, 49, adds. "People are never socially trying to one-up each other with how much they work." Here's how Crain and Kave teamed up to open Abricot and how moving abroad changed their lives: 'Homegrown' efforts Crain owned an acupuncture clinic and three Airbnb rental units in Austin, Texas, before relocating to Paris for her husband's job in 2012. Upon arriving, she learned that the city, renowned for its wine, had an "underdeveloped" cocktail culture, she says. Kave was also an entrepreneur in the U.S. She had a made-to-order pie business, then co-founded Butter and Scotch, a bakery in Brooklyn, New York. In 2019, she realized she enjoyed starting new businesses more than running them, and began working as a restaurant consultant. A mutual connection virtually introduced Kave and Crain shortly after, and the pair started expanding Crain's idea for a Parisian cocktail bar. The Covid-19 pandemic rerouted their plans: Butter and Scotch closed, and founders decided to start small. They bottled and sold cocktails to Parisians door-to-door in October 2020, under the name Izzy's Paris. Kave concocted recipes in her Brooklyn apartment kitchen. Crain tested and tweaked them, and ran operations in Paris, soon involving her family and friends. "This was very homegrown," Crain says. "One night ... we had, I think, 50 deliveries, to be made. My husband got in his car, my older son got on his bicycle, and my friend's son got on his bicycle." Ex-pat learning curves Izzy's became profitable, but its success was fairly short-lived, the duo says. As Covid-19 vaccines became widely distributed, Parisians went back to work, bars and restaurants, and sales dropped. Crain and Kave took that as a sign to open their brick-and-mortar shop. They found a location and named their business Abricot, which is French slang for female genitalia. "We wanted [the name] to be feminine ... juicy and fresh and cheeky," Crain says. Before opening, Crain and her husband invested roughly $82,100, intended to cover operating costs. The co-founders raised an additional $27,300 through crowdfunding. They quickly learned some key differences between starting a business in the U.S. and France. Crain estimated it would take three months to file paperwork and open the business. Instead, it look more than a year to take over the storefront's lease and acquire a liquor license, largely because their banker "went on vacation for six weeks, and no one took over their post," Crain says. The delays ate up most of the initial investment, Crain says, as Abricot paid rent for over a year before it opened. They gradually raised an additional $170,000 through a first-round equity raise, they say. It also costs more to have employees in Paris: France's employers make the highest social security contributions in Europe at an average of 45%, according to Dutch business development firm EuroDev. Employees in the U.S. get 12.4%, and cover half the contribution themselves. The perils, and joys, of running a Parisian bar It likely would have been less challenging to open Abricot in the U.S., the founders say but running the restaurant abroad is, in some ways, easier. In France, there are fewer liquor conglomerates and therefore more vendors to choose from and negotiate with, they say. Health department inspections often result in guidance, rather than scolding, Kave says. The country's entrepreneurs and employees alike also have universal health care. The lifestyle makes the biggest difference: Neither Crain or Kave were unhappy in the U.S., but they have more control of their time in Paris, they say. Crain used to spend almost two hours per day in traffic, shuttling between daycare and work. Now, when she walks her kids home from school, they often stop for pastries, she says. Abricot co-founders celebrating the bar's first birthday Jennifer Crain In late July, California's top state court upheld Proposition 22, a voter-approved measure allowing app-based services such as Uber , Lyft , Grubhub and DoorDash to classify drivers in the most populous U.S. state as independent contractors rather than employees. The California Supreme Court ruling was a major victory for the ride-hailing industry, which for cost and other reasons, has a vested interest in classifying gig workers as independents. While only applicable in California, labor law experts expect momentum to spread to other states where the issue hasn't yet been tested. "The companies and proponents of Prop 22, including some gig-based workers, are going to try to scale this to other states," said Caroline Donelan, partner in the labor and employment group at Blank Rome. "And at the same time, there's going to be more pushback from unions and opponents of Prop 22 to go straight to various state legislatures to seek more protections for workers." Employees are generally entitled to a broader swath of benefits than independent contractors, but Proposition 22 extended certain wage and insurance-related benefits to rideshare and delivery drivers, while protecting their independent status. "Prop 22 is a testament to what can be done when we listen to drivers and couriers," Uber posted on its website after the California top court's decision. "With growing frequency, policymakers are shifting away from outdated discussions, based on a binary choice between employment with benefits, or independence with none. Instead, an increasing number of policymakers worldwidefrom New York State and Massachusetts, to Australia and Brazilare actively engaging with drivers and couriers to develop innovative models that preserve their independence while also requiring important new benefits and protections. We stand ready to ensure that progress continues." In one way or another, the rideshare labor battle affects a good portion of the U.S. population. While on-demand apps are most popular in and close to urban areas, one in five urban Americans have used ride-hailing services, including 15% of those living in suburban areas, according to Pew Research. The success in California after years of uncertainty gives rideshare companies "some wind in their sails," said Gary McLaughlin, partner at Mitchell Silberberg & Knupp. "I think it provides a template for the types of laws they could try to get passed in other states, whether it's through ballot initiatives, where that's an option, or legislation," he said. After the most recent verdict, Lyft said in a statement it was "thrilled" with the decision. "After Prop. 22 went into effect, more than 80% of California drivers surveyed said that it has been good for them. In fact, median hourly earnings of drivers on the Lyft platform in California were 22% higher in 2023 than in 2019," the company said in a press release. And in the early days of Prop 22, the Chief Policy Officer of Lyft was quoted in the Washington Post as saying: "I think Prop 22 has now created a structure for us to discuss with leaders in other states and Washington, potentially. We think that prop 22 has now created a model that can be replicated and can be scaled." Some other states have tried to rein in ridesharing companies' practices with respect to worker benefits, and there's been a lot of legal jockeying over the past several years about whether they should be considered independent contractors for the purposes of state law. Now, said James Yukevich, founding partner of Yukevich Cavanaugh, "the California decision is a model for other states to take a good close look at." Here are some keys to where the nationwide labor battle, involving some of the most powerful technology companies and biggest labor unions, is headed after the California decision. Notably, it's also all occurring during an election year, with state ballot measures upcoming in November and Tony West, the brother-in-law of Democratic Party nominee for president, Kamala Harris, taking a leave of absence from his role as Uber's chief legal officer to advise her campaign. New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Minnesota actions Florida passed a law a few years ago, the Transportation Network Companies Act, allowing rideshare drivers to be classified as independent contractors under certain conditions. In other high-population states, there has been a wave of recent actions and compromises between the companies and the states. In May, Minnesota lawmakers passed a measure in which drivers continue to be classified as independent contractors, and don't receive benefits like unemployment insurance and overtime. However, it sets a minimum wage of $1.28 per mile and 31 cents per minute for gig drivers, replacing a higher minimum that Minneapolis had adopted which prompted threats by Uber and Lyft to discontinue operations in the city. There have also been a number of lawsuits by states aiming to improve conditions for drivers. In November, New York announced two settlements totaling $328 million with Uber and Lyft to resolve multi-year investigations. The settlements involve back pay to drivers and a new minimum driver "earnings floor," paid sick leave and other improvements in drivers' working conditions. Uber's portion of the settlement, $290 million, and Lyft's portion, $38 million, were slated for distribution to current and former drivers. And in late June, Massachusetts settled a case against Uber and Lyft that requires a minimum pay standard of $32.50 per hour and requires a suite of benefits and protections for drivers. Uber and Lyft will also pay a combined total of $175 million to the state, much of which will be distributed to current and former drivers. The state had been seeking a court determination that Uber and Lyft drivers are employees, not independent contractors. A statement from Massachusetts' attorney general's office said the settlement resolved its multi-year litigation against Uber and Lyft and "puts a stop to the threat of the companies' attempting to rewrite state employment law via a 2024 ballot initiative" which would have included an earnings standard that did not guarantee a minimum wage. Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, a federal district court judge in late July dismissed with prejudice a case against Uber, as to whether workers should be classified as employees or contractors for purposes of the federal Fair Labor Standards Act and certain state statutes. The case involved two hung juries, and the court's dismissal was based on the notion that the issue was so "intractable" that it would be a waste of time to give plaintiffs a "proverbial third 'bite of the apple.'" "It has become clear to the Court that this 'either-or' determination simply does not comport with the nature of the gig economy, at least as it pertains to Uber Black," wrote senior judge Michael M. Baylson in his opinion. Gig workers might see more efforts to unionize Union leaders have made clear they want gig drivers to have more benefits than are available today. It's possible they'll try to force the unionization issue through ballot initiatives or by supporting legislation in more liberal states, which have historically been more amenable to union efforts. "Just as companies are galvanized right now, unions are also galvanized right now," Donelan said. In Massachusetts, for example, the drivers have been working for more than two years for a path toward unionization. The drivers had support from the United for Justice ballot committee, which includes 32BJ SEIU, the Service Employees International Union and the International Association of Machinists. "Over the past two years Massachusetts Uber and Lyft drivers have exposed the gig economy for what it is: an exploitation model centered on bilking workers, consumers and taxpayers alike," said SEIU President April Verrett, in a press release. "Drivers know that the best antidote to their industry's sub-minimum wages, unfair deactivations and unsafe working conditions is the power to collectively bargain for better standards through a union. SEIU is fully committed to backing the courage and creativity of rideshare drivers as they rewrite the rules in the face of labor law that has counted them out and written them out for too long." Even after the Massachusetts settlement, voters in the state will be weighing in on the issue in November, through a ballot initiative that would allow rideshare drivers to form unions and collectively bargain with Uber, Lyft, and similar companies. "Unions are interested in these people becoming employees, or at least being allowed to unionize. Transportation is usually a pretty highly unionized sector," said John Wicker, partner at Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth. There's also the potential for states like California to pursue legislation to allow ride-share drivers and certain other gig workers to become eligible for workers' compensation, an issue the California court left open. "Even in California, the issue is not necessarily over," said Gregory P. Feit, senior associate at Reavis Page Jump. Riot police officers push back anti-migration protesters outside on Aug. 4, 2024 in Rotherham, U.K. Christopher Furlong | Getty Images A number of countries have now issued travel and safety warnings to their citizens living or visiting the U.K. as riots and street disorder continue to plague the country. India is the latest country to issue an advisory for its nationals traveling to the U.K. with the High Commission of India in London warning visitors "to stay vigilant and exercise caution during their travels" in light of recent "disturbances" in parts of the country. The United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia have also all warned their citizens visiting or living in the U.K. that some areas currently present serious safety risks as unrest, initially sparked by anti-immigration protests, continues to spread throughout England and Northern Ireland. Riot police hold back protesters near a burning police vehicle after disorder broke out on July 30, 2024 in Southport, England. Rumours about the identity of the 17-year-old suspect after deadly stabbing attack in Southport sparked a violent protest with unrest spreading across England and Northern Ireland. Getty Images | Getty Images News | Getty Images A number of towns and cities including the tourist hubs of Liverpool and Manchester have seen violent disorder on the streets in the last week, with far-right groups clashing with police and rival demonstrators. Unrest continued in parts of the U.K. on Monday night, with Belfast in Northern Ireland seeing further disorder, as well as the northern town of Darlington and Plymouth on the south coast. Since the rioting began a week ago Tuesday, 378 arrests have been made, the National Police Chiefs' Council said Monday. Other instances of disorder have also been seen across the country, from towns including Rotherham and Middlesbrough to larger cities such as Bristol, Leeds and Hull. Tourist hotspot London has not seen any significant disturbances. Smoke billows from a fire started by protesters as riot police stand guard after disturbances near the Southport Islamic Society Mosque in Southport, northwest England, on July 30, 2024, a day after a deadly child knife attack. Justin Tallis | Afp | Getty Images The UAE's foreign ministry on Monday urged its citizens in the U.K. "to exercise the highest level of caution, and take the necessary precautions, in light of the unstable security situation in various cities across the U.K." The ministry also warned UAE nationals against visiting areas witnessing riots and protests, and to avoid crowded areas. Australia issued a travel advisory Monday warning its citizens to "avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the potential for disruption and violence" while Malaysia has told its nationals not to travel to the U.K. Nigeria stated that the riots "have assumed a violent and disorderly outlook" and "may spread across the country." It warned its citizens "to be extra vigilant, stay away from protests areas and avoid large gatherings." Asked about the potential detrimental impact on tourism to the U.K. this summer, the British Tourist Authority, operating under the brand names VisitBritain and VisitEngland, told CNBC that it was monitoring the situation closely. "Demand for travel to Britain remains strong and we continue to welcome many millions of visitors from all over the world. We are working closely with our overseas teams to monitor travel sentiment and to ensure our international travel trade partners have the latest information available, as necessary," a VisitBritain spokesperson said in emailed comments. Anti-immigration protesters are seen during riots outside of the Holiday Inn Express in Manvers, which was believed to be used as an asylum hotel, on August 4, 2024 in Rotherham, United Kingdom. Christopher Furlong | Getty Images News | Getty Images Riots and street violence started last week after false claims spread online that a mass stabbing last Monday, in which three young girls were killed, had been carried out by a Muslim asylum seeker who had arrived in the U.K. by boat. Disturbances and disorder erupted in a number of towns and cities in the aftermath of the attack with large groups seen chanting racist, anti-immigration and anti-Muslim slogans, damaging buildings, looting and clashing with riot police and counter-protesting groups of locals. A protester holds a placard during a Stand Up To Racism unity rally against anti-immigration supporters. Earlier this week, protests and riots erupted across the country after a knife attack in Southport. Sopa Images | Lightrocket | Getty Images In the worst instances of violent disorder, shops and mosques have been attacked and bricks and petrol bombs hurled. Fires were started at one hotel in Rotherham that rioters believed housed asylum seekers. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer characterized the violence as "far-right thuggery" while the country's former head of counter-terrorism policing Neil Basu, said Monday that some of the violence seen during the riots has "crossed the line into terrorism." The government pledged to increase police numbers and said there would be an immediate crackdown on the rioting, adding that anyone involved would be dealt with immediately by the country's criminal justice system. More than 500 extra prison places are also being prepared to detain suspected rioters. Members of the local community help to clear debris from the streets in Middlesbrough, north east England on August 5, 2024, following rioting and looting the day before. UK leader Keir Starmer warned far-right protesters on Sunday they would "regret" participating in England's worst rioting in 13 years, as disturbances linked to the murder of three children earlier this week flared across the country. Yelim Lee | Afp | Getty Images Elon Musk attends 'Exploring the New Frontiers of Innovation: Mark Read in Conversation with Elon Musk' session during the Cannes Lions International Festival Of Creativity 2024 - Day Three on June 19, 2024 in Cannes, France. LONDON The U.K. government hit back at Elon Musk after the billionaire made controversial comments about riots fueled by the far-right and anti-immigration sentiment taking place across the country. A number of towns and cities including Liverpool and Manchester have seen violent disorder on the streets in the last week, with far-right groups clashing with police and rival demonstrators. On Sunday, Musk replied to a post about the riots on X, the social media platform he owns, stating: "Civil war is inevitable." His remark was subsequently met with condemnation by U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Responding to a reporter's question on Monday on whether Starmer agreed with Musk's tweet, the PM's spokesperson said: "There is no justification for comments like that." "What we've seen in this country is organized illegal thuggery which has no place on our streets or online," Starmer's official spokesperson said. "We're talking about a minority of thugs that do not speak for Britain, and in response to it we've seen some of the best of our communities coming out to clean up the mess and disruption," the spokesperson added. "You can tell from that the prime minister doesn't share those sentiments." Heidi Alexander, the U.K.'s courts minister, said in response to Musk's comments Tuesday that anyone with a platform on social media should "behave responsibly" with that platform, adding that language associating the riots with civil war is "totally unjustified." UNESCO's World Heritage Committee named a site in the Gaza Strip Saint Hilarion Monastery, or Tell Umm Amer to both its "World Heritage" and "World Heritage In Danger" lists in late July. The decision, made during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee held in New Delhi, India, reflects the ancient monastery's value and need for protection, according to UNESCO. The Committee inscribed the monastery one of the oldest sites in the Middle East, according to UNESCO to both lists using an emergency procedure set forth in the World Heritage Convention. The procedure allows for accelerated inscriptions for sites that are under threat. "The ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, which could pose a threat to this archaeological site, is a situation in which this procedure is possible," a UNESCO spokesperson told CNBC Travel. The Saint Hilarion Monastery/Tell Umm Amer was home to the first monastic community in the Holy Land and "was a centre for religious, cultural and economic exchanges" during the Byzantine period, according to UNESCO. Mohammed Abed | Afp | Getty Images To date, UNESCO said it has not identified any damage to the site, which it is monitoring remotely using satellite imagery. What this means As a result of the inscriptions, UNESCO's 196 "State Parties" or countries that ratified the World Heritage Convention adopted by UNESCO in 1972 must avoid directly or indirectly damaging the site and assist in protecting it, UNESCO said. Israel is no longer a member of UNESCO, but it is a State Party, which means it is bound by the terms of the Convention to protect and not damage the monastery, UNESCO told CNBC Travel. Along with the United States, Israel left UNESCO on Dec. 31, 2018, amid allegations of anti-Israeli bias at the U.N. agency which crescendoed after the organization accepted "the State of Palestine" as a member in 2011. Under the Biden administration, the United States formally rejoined UNESCO in July 2023. Israel has not rejoined UNESCO, though it has sent delegations to the World Heritage Committee's annual meetings to serve as non-voting observers, including a much-heralded appearance at the 2023 meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Use of the emergency procedure Simultaneous inscriptions to UNESCO's World Heritage and its "In Danger" lists are rather common, a UNESCO spokesperson told CNBC. Recent examples include Ukraine's historic center of the port city of Odesa and the archaeological sites of Yemen's ancient kingdom of Saba, both inscribed in January 2023. Use of UNESCO's emergency procedure fast-tracked Saint Hilarion Monastery/Tell Umm Amer's inclusion onto its World Heritage Lists, a procedure which normally takes at least two years. Mohammed Abed | Afp | Getty Images There are currently 1,123 sites on UNESCO's World Heritage List, but just 56 on its "In Danger" list, which identifies sites that are under threat of war, natural disasters, pollution, overtourism or other problems. Sites on the "In Danger" list can also receive technical and financial assistance for protection and restoration work. Requests to use the emergency procedure for simultaneous inscriptions must come from a State Party, the UNESCO spokesperson said. Workers renovate a mosaic at the Saint Hilarion Monastery/Tell Umm Amer, a site which dates to 329 AD and consists of two churches, a burial site, a baptism hall, a public cemetery, an audience hall and dining rooms. Mohammed Abed | Afp | Getty Images Wall Street is breathing a sigh of relief on Tuesday, even if the coast isn't clear just yet. The Cboe Volatility Index , or "VIX" which briefly spiked above 65 on Monday was back below 30 and dipping toward its closing level from last week. .VIX 5D mountain The VIX is well off its highs from Monday as the stock market tries to claw back its losses. The VIX, often called Wall Street's "fear gauge," reflects expected volatility over the next 30 days based on the price of S & P 500 options. It does occasionally see short-term spikes, but this reversal looks like it could be unusually large. "Excluding the current shock, there have been 39 VIX spikes to above 35 in our empirical analysis since 1999. Market shock of this magnitude happens on average more than once per year, but is unlikely to sustain. In the subsequent month, VIX tends to drop 74% of the time for a median decline of 5.57," Bank of America strategist Howard Du said in a note to clients. But the VIX is not a perfect measure of investor sentiment, so its decline does not mean that the worries about economic growth or the carry trade with the Japanese yen have gone away. "The statistics from yesterday's selloff had the feel of the 'sell now ask questions later' kind of day where everything and anything is piling on to reasons for selling, with 90% of market volume to the downside," Quincy Krosby, chief global strategist for LPL Financial, said in a note. "Today, the market by any metric is 'oversold' and due for a bounce. The lingering question now is whether the concerns that pushed the market into a cascade of selling are alleviated," Krosby said. Indias central GST intelligence authority Directorate General of GST intelligence or DGGI is learnt to have sent show cause notices (SCN) to 10 foreign airlines operating in India.Sources told CNBC-TV18 on August 6 that the 10 airlines that have been issued these notices are Emirates for tax evasion worth 7550 crore, Etihad Airways for 1660 crore, Saudi Arabia Airlines for 612 crore, Air Arabia for 455 crore, Oman Airlines for 71 crore, Thai Airways for 60 crore, Qatar Airways for 53 crore, Singapore Airlines for 40 crore, British Airways for 33 crore and Lufthansa Air Cargo for 10 crore.DGGIs notices are part of the detailed action taken against these airlines in 2023, sources said. They added that the tax authority has alleged tax evasion on account of import of services from head office by Indian branch offices.CNBC-TV18 had first reported about DGGI conducting raids at branch offices of these airlines in India on October 18, 2023, post which these airlines had been facing inquiries and claims.Experts claim that these foreign airlines are likely to get a relief from the aforementioned tax claims through the section11(A) provisions cleared by the GST council in its last meeting on June 22.Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said it is disappointed with the DGGIs move despite a number of representations made by the industry on this matter.Dr Xie Xingquan, IATAs Regional Vice President for North Asia and Asia Pacific, told CNBC-TV18 that DGGIs assertion that GST should apply to expenses incurred by the headquarters of foreign airlines (with a branch office in India) in the course of providing air transport services is flawed.It does not take into consideration the nature and conventions involved in the provision of international air transport. Furthermore, India is alone in its approach, nowhere else around the world is this practiced, he claimed.IATA Regional VP added that Indian carriers operating to destinations outside India do not face similar situations or demands. The international nature of air transport necessitates a clear and consistent policy framework globally, he said.IATA continues to work closely with the Indian government on this subject, he said, adding the international airlines association body has also urged the government to urgently help resolve this matter, which can dampen and risk Indias strong aviation potential.To be seen is whether these airlines settle the dues or they get an indemnity from these claims through the section11(A) provisions cleared by the GST council in its last meeting. 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This ruling is likely to increase regulatory scrutiny and changes in Googles business practices, potentially allowing more room for competitors to gain market share. Google has said it will appeal the ruling, which adds to its other legal challenges. In the incredible series finale of Malcolm in the Middle, the viewers (and Malcolm) learned that the titular boy genius was destined to become the greatest, hardest-working and most empathetic president in American history while his brother Dewey will live a life of luxury. To Dewey, luxury means a life spent in study of Charles Dickens. Everyone who watched Malcolm in the Middle during the aughts knows that Dewey was not-so-secretly one of the smartest characters in the entire show. Despite his big-brained brother getting the brunt of their parents expectations, Dewey, sneaking by in special ed, consistently demonstrated both a social and emotional intelligence far higher than those of any other elementary or middle school-aged child, including the kids on track to be the next Krelboynes. As such, it should come as no surprise that the role of Dewey in Foxs beloved working-class sitcom could only have been played by a precocious child actor who had the intellect to understand that, shortly after the credits rolled on the last episode of Malcolm in the Middle, he should get the hell out of Hollywood. Don't Miss Four years after Malcolm in the Middle concluded, Erik Per Sullivan retired from acting indefinitely to pursue a life in more refined arts. In an interview with the international Malcolm in the Middle fan channel Malcolm in France, Jane Kaczmarek, who played the matriarch Lois, gave an update to all the Malcolm fans who have spent the last 15 years wondering where Dewey went: He goes to school at a very prestigious American university that hes asked us all to be quiet about, and he loves Charles Dickens. Basically, Sullivan traded playing impoverished children for reading about them. Advertisement Hes well, hes very, very well," Kaczmarek answered when asked about her most reclusive co-star, saying of Sullivan's former day job, He did Malcolm for seven years. He started at 7, he ended at 14. He wasnt interested in acting at all. Advertisement However, Kaczmarek revealed that she does keep close enough in touch with her former youngest son, who, at 33 years of age and with a fruitful acting career behind him, is spending his early 30s in the same place as many people his age who dont care about making money grad school. Hes doing graduate work in Victorian literature, Kaczmarek said of Sullivans current academic pursuits. I admire it because so many people think being in show business is the greatest thing in the world. Its not for everyone. Advertisement Kaczmareks comments on Sullivans post-showbiz life in literature corroborate what Malcolm in the Middle star Frankie Muniz recently told Metro about his little brothers whereabouts, saying of Sullivans path after it veered away from acting, One thing I know, some actors or some people just got to do it when they were a kid and then they wanted to experience other things and kind of live a more normal life out of the spotlight. I think thats what he wanted to do so good for him. Of course, Sullivans retirement from the screen could prove problematic if the long-speculated Malcolm in the Middle reboot ever gets off the ground. Though, considering what Lois said Deweys future had in store during the original finale, the writers could always just hand-wave away Deweys absence by saying that hes summering in England. I used to be able to confidently say that everyone was thoroughly familiar with World War II, but unfortunately, I dont think thats such a guarantee anymore. Still, I think its safe to claim that most people with a brain possessing at least one to three wrinkles is aware of the extent of the atrocities committed by the Nazis during World War II. What they did was historically horrific enough that, again, for most sane people, theyre the quintessential example of human evil. But of course, if everybody was as on the right side of history as theyd like to claim, it wouldnt have been much of a fight, would it? And so, there are definitely people and corporations that would like their support for the losing, genocidal side to stay off their Wikipedia page. Don't Miss Here are five companies that were perfectly happy to work with and for the Third Reich 5 Chanel Shutterstock Its hard to distance your company from Hitler when your namesake was hanging out with him and his closest confidants during the war. No, not as some secret agent of the Allied Forces, but in fact, as the opposite: a Nazi sympathizer and informant. Coco Chanel was introduced to the Nazi through her highly inadvisable beau that would make your friends worst boyfriend seem like a saint: Baron Hans Gunther von Dincklage. Just from that name, you can probably guess which side he was on. Its suspected that the only reason she never ended up serving looks in front of the Hague is because of the protection of her friend Winston Churchill. Definitely adds an air of menace to those Instagram-ready quotes like, The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. 4 Hugo Boss Advertisement Shutterstock Another ill-judged fashion collaboration was between Hugo Boss and the Nazi Party. Hugo Boss isnt quite as prominent these days as Chanel is, maybe because it was a little harder for them to dodge the stink. You might have heard of the Nazi brownshirts. Well, it was Herr Boss who designed and provided those very duds. Styling the Third Reich would be bad enough on its own, but he also used forced labor to make the shirts themselves. Lest you think that this was a case of a hand being forced, conscripted into making one of the worlds most evil uniforms, the facts don't plead that case. 3 Coca-Cola Advertisement Shutterstock Money-driven Nazi sympathy wasnt only the domain of those weak-boned European businessmen, either. Even one of the most iconic American companies ever, Coca-Cola, had dealings with the Axis that theyd rather not discuss now. I get it, white bears are a whole lot more family-friendly than black boots. Now, to be fair, it wasnt coming straight from Atlanta headquarters. When Pearl Harbor was bombed, Coca-Cola stopped exports of their syrups and products to Nazi Germany and their German operation, Coca-Cola GmbH though they notably didnt have any problem with quenching Nazi thirst in 1940. But the man in charge over there, an exceedingly Nazi-tolerant fellow named Max Keith, didnt take this as a sign to stop working. He instead invented a new drink that could wet German whistles. He named it Fanta, and it was a massive hit. Did the U.S. Coca-Cola brand have anything to do with Keiths continued soda-based sieg-heiling? No, they didnt. At the same time, after the war, they applauded his shrewd business grindset and promoted him to be the head of Coca-Cola Europe. Advertisement Advertisement 2 IBM Shutterstock Computer giant IBMs products were an absolute godsend for businesses looking to keep their books in order. If you wanted to efficiently track records and build a database, IBM was making exactly the technology you needed. Though their use extended beyond strictly the business world. For example, their products would be hugely helpful if you suddenly found yourself with a need to document, calculate and easily search through a database of people with specific religious and personal characteristics something IBM, or as they named their brand-new polish outpost, Watson Business Machines, was happy to provide. After all, do you know how many computer punch cards you have to buy in order to track multiple countries Jewish populations? Now, IBM still claims it had no idea what Watson Business Machines was up to. I guess they thought their Polish subsidiary operating during Nazi occupation was probably making punch cards for, uh, someone else. Advertisement Ego Nwodim claims that a lot of people are intimidated by her boss, Saturday Night Live producer Lorne Michaels but shes not one of them. I know people are scared of him, but aint nothing to be scared of, Nwodim told Interview. What a curious man, Nwodim explained. I get flowers from him for my birthday every year, and Im like, the man knows how to charm a woman. But Nwodim's most telling statement about her relationship with SNL's head honcho? One time I slipped up and called him Daddy Lorne to his face. Before you make the call to NBC Human Resources, know that SNL cast members have had daddy issues with Michaels for decades. I read a thing in the Times about Tina Fey and she said something like, Well, you really want to please Daddy, with regard to Lorne, said original Saturday Night Live writer Marilyn Suzanne Miller in oral history Live From New York. But Jesus, we thought he was Daddy when I was 25 and he was 30. He was that strict father even when we were kids. You would always look to Lorne for approval. You wanted this father figure to say that was good. Don't Miss We worked with him before he had children, added SNL writer Christine Zander. I think we were probably all his children before he had children. Lorne somehow manages to be a paternal figure. Is playing Daddy one of the keys to Michaels success on the show? I think a lot of us are comfortable with or afflicted by or taken with distant fathers, explained Ana Gasteyer. So I think theres a comfort with Lornes silence for a lot of us. You cant help but make this sort of analogy that the show was our mother and Lorne was our father and you wanted to please both of them, said Nora Dunn. You certainly didnt want Lorne to be angry with you. But not all cast members love the idea of Michaels as a father figure. Lorne says I made him like my dad, griped Jon Lovitz, which I didnt. Advertisement Nonetheless, Michaels motivated the cast and staff by treating them as if they were a bunch of children, maintains writer Alan Zweibel. If we were denied Daddys his approval, we worked harder and harder to get it, he has said. Some thrived on that. Some didnt. Harry Shearer was one who did not. Lornes approach to the cast was to infantalize them, he said. He wanted them to be like children; hed be the daddy. That was his preferred way of relating to people. And I didnt particularly want to relate that way. Given his style, Michaels picked the right profession, says Jane Curtin. He gets to lord over people who want to kneel at his feet and he doesnt acknowledge them which makes them work harder. Black Hat USA 2024 kicks off Aug. 3 at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas with training sessions, followed by a series of summits on Aug. 6, including the CISO Summit, with sessions on quantifying the cost of cyber risk, navigating regulatory complexity, and rebuilding after a cyber crisis, among others. But the big show rolls out Aug. 7-8. Keynotes include a discussion on securing elections in a record-breaking year for voting worldwide, featuring CISA Director Jen Easterly, NCSC CEO Felicity Oswald, and ENISA COO Hans de Vries, and a fireside chat with Signal founder Moxie Marlinspike on the tradeoffs between security and privacy. Microsoft Deputy CISO Ann Johnson, ThreatLocker CEO Danny Jenkins, CISAs Jen Easterly, and National Cyber Director Harry Coker will also be presenting on the main stage. Session topics range from practical LLM security and leveraging LLMs for threat hunting, to cyber-insurance strategies and securing network appliances. As ever, exploit development sessions abound, as do talks aimed at breaking down application security defenses. On the enterprise front, critical vulnerabilities in AWS, VPN post-exploitation techniques, real-world SaaS attacks, and privileged escalation will be presented and discussed. Disinformation, deepfakes, ransomware gang structures Black Hat has a bit of everything for everyone in the security community, on both sides of the divide. By Jennifer K. Morita They left their villages in the mountains of Laos more than 50 years ago to train as nurses in a secret war, forever shattering boundaries for Hmong women. Those pioneers were honored last weekend at Sacramento State, part of a conference where a new generation of Hmong nurses mentored young students in an effort to diversify the nursing profession and improve health care for their community in the United States. Almost 200 nurses from around the country attended the second Hmong Nurses Association (HNA) Conference at Sacramento State Aug. 3-4, marking 50 years of Hmongs in the U.S. HNA also held a free reception on Saturday to honor the first Hmong nurses who trained to tend the wounded during the secret war in Laos. You hear a lot about the men in the secret guerilla units, but you dont hear about the Hmong nurses, HNA National President May Y. Hang said. Even though they were very small in number, they had a really big impact on changing the role of Hmong women and contributing to the secret war. ... This is our origin story. This is how we went from mothers and daughters, diligently working in the fields, to being nurses. The HNA was established in 2012 to address issues and challenges in health care related to the Hmong community, including underrepresentation in the nursing profession, patient isolation, violation of cultural practices and values, and mental distress from grief and loss. This years conference, hosted by Sac States Project HMONG, included: Continuing education classes for credit Workshops on diabetes and uncontrolled gout among Hmongs Presentations on traditional Hmong healing practices and the Shaman Spiritual Healer Training Project Discussions on patient advocacy and improving mental health literacy The conference also featured a panel discussion that included secret war nurse Chee Xiong Ngiateng and Sacramento State School of Nursing Professor Dian Baker, who has researched the pioneering Hmong nurses. The CIA recruited Hmong and Laotian men to fight in a clandestine war against the North Vietnamese during the 1960s. The U.S. government also sought women to train as nurses, Hang said. It was the first time women diverged from their traditional role as Hmong women and caregivers working in the home, Hang said. These women left their villages and their families, many against their parents and clans approval, to learn how to be nurses and tend the wounded. ... We want to tell their story because not many people know it. They were the trailblazers. We are here because they broke through first and helped the community be more accepting of women working outside the home. After the Communist takeover, thousands of refugees fled Laos to escape persecution, eventually settling in the U.S. Today, there are more than 327,000 Hmong living in the United States, according to the Pew Research Center. Sacramento has the third largest Hmong population with 27,000 people, behind the Minneapolis-St. Paul areas 81,000 and 35,000 in Fresno. Local youth interested in pursuing careers in nursing were encouraged to ask a panel of working nurses questions about the profession, with topics ranging from education and course requirements to salary and types of jobs for nurses. (Sacramento State/Edward Harimoto) Sacramento State has roughly 1,000 Hmong students, according to Chao Vang, assistant vice president of Educational Equity Programs and Student Success. Sac States Hmong population is just behind Fresno States, Vang said. So its only fitting for us to serve as host campus. At the end of the day, we want our students to enjoy and benefit from this conference, and hopefully it will serve as inspiration for another state or campus to host HNA. In addition to celebrating Hmong nursing pioneers, HNA is looking to the future, Hang said. Were not just here to support current nurses of Hmong heritage. We also want to grow and expand the diversity of the nursing profession, she said. HNA paired nurses attending the conference with 20 local youth, ages nine to 18, who are interested in nursing. On Sunday afternoon in the School of Nursing simulation lab, mentors and faculty demonstrated how to take vital signs such as blood pressure, respiration and heart rate. Nursing is hard work, but its fun, Nursing Chair Tanya Altmann told the students. You touch more lives being a nurse than any other career. Theres nothing more rewarding than making a difference in someones life, even if its just holding their hand as they pass away and die with dignity. The state-of-the-art lab in Folsom Hall is set up like a hospital ward, with gurneys and equipment that can be activated to use for real patients in an emergency. Students were gifted stethoscopes to listen to lung, heart and bowel sounds on computerized mannequins that were pre-programmed to exhibit various symptoms. Athena Thao, 17, pressed her stethoscope head to the dummys chest, eyes widening when she heard a telltale crackle. Its bad if you hear crackling sounds at the end of the mannequins breath, she said. It sounds like hes having trouble breathing. Thao decided to pursue a career in the medical field after watching her family struggle to navigate the health care system for her grandfather. My grandpa was way too sick, and there was a language barrier. My older sisters had to translate, but there are no Hmong words for some English terms, Thao said. The nurses werent really taking care of him. I want to be the nurse that stands up for my patients and helps my patients as much as I can. Although the mentor program was specifically for Hmong youth, no one was turned away. Three Afghan kids were really interested in health care, Hang said. Were all refugees. Thats how we ended up here in the U.S., so since we were doing the presentation in English, we took everybody. Classes at the conference were also open to any nurse looking for continuing education units required to maintain their licenses, Hang said. Our goal is for them to come and learn about the Hmong patients theyre caring for, she said. (Click a photo below to view our gallery.) Share This Story email copy url url copied! Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. From left, Wayne Lasher, Susan Lasher and Perry Lasher with a commemorative plate given to them in honor of Kay Lasher, a longtime volunteer of the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society who died in June. Mallika Sherawat Indian actress Mallika Sherawat was missing Los Angeles as she returned home from her holiday in Paris. Mallika took to Instagram, where she shared a video of herself opening her backyard door, and cuddling her pet dog, a Labrador Retriever. Feels great to be back home, Los Angeles I have missed you, she wrote as the caption. The actress last month shared a video of herself enjoying herself in the ocean in a teeny-weeny bikini. I love playing with the ocean waves, the wild rhythm of the sea evokes a sense of boundless freedom, she had captioned the post. She then shared a video montage of herself posing on a motorbike. I may not know how to ride a motorbike but I sure know how to pose with it, she had written. Tagged as one of the most bold actresses in Hindi cinema in the 2000s, Mallika made her debut in films with a small role in the 2002 film Jeena Sirf Merre Liye, where she was credited as Reema Lamba. Her performance in Murder starring Emraan Hashmi, which was released in 2004, popped eyeballs. She gained international acclaim with her work in movies such as 'Hisss' and 'Politics of Love'. She has also worked in films such as Khwahish, Bachke Rehna Re Baba, Pyaar Ke Side Effects, Aap Ka Suroor - The Real Love Story, Welcome" and Kis Kis Ki Kismat among many others. On the work front, Mallika was last seen in 'RK/RKay', a comedy-drama by Rajat Kapoor. The film also features Ranvir Shorey, Manu Rishi Chadha, and Kubbra Sait. Skylie Shore, 21, will visit Europe, Japan and Canada by herself in August A young woman who has spent $17,000 on travelling this year alone has told how she often leaves her boyfriend at home to enjoy solo trips. Skylie Shore, 21, has loved travelling since she was a teenager and now prioritises it above everything else. This year she has already been to five countries and done four solo trips, spending $7,000 - but she still has a lot more travel to look forward to. In August Skylie will leave behind her boyfriend, Stephen Pogorilich, 24, to take a two-month trip around Europe, Japan and Canada, costing her a further $10,000. While the couple still love to take trips together, travel-obsessed Skylie refuses to let her relationship hold her back from exploring the world. Skylie, a corporate event planner, from Cranston, Rhode Island, US, said: 'I have spent $7,000 on places I've already been this year. Pictured in Ireland, Skylie Shore, 21, from Cranston, Rhode Island, US, has spent $17,000 on travel this year alone The travel-obsessed corporate event planner (pictured in Italy) often leaves her boyfriend at home to enjoy solo trips Skylie, who is pictured in Grindelwald, Switzerland, has loved travelling since she was a teenager and now prioritises it above all other activities 'But in my mind I really love to travel. I work to travel. 'I'm obsessed with travel. It consumes my life. 'I would never stop that just because I'm in a relationship. She added that her boyfriend Stephen is 'super supportive' and never holds her back. Skylie fell in love with travelling after going on a 'mission trip' to Costa Rica aged 14. Such trips usually see groups take part in community service activities abroad and are often organised by churches. Two years later she went to China on a school exchange trip and she has prioritised travel ever since - even if that means going alone. Skylie visited Italy aged 18 and has been to Switzerland and Ireland by herself this year and loved all of it. Skylie, who has planned a two-month solo trip for August, is pictured in Iceland, which, along with Switzerland, ranks as her number one destination Skylie is pictured with her security guard boyfriend Stephen Pogorilich, 24, who is supportive of her solo trips Skylie loves having new experiences and even tried paragliding when she visited Switzerland She said: 'I really love trying new things and getting out of my comfort zone. 'I love to learn. You're learning without realising it. 'My favourite is a tie between Switzerland and Iceland. 'I love the greenery and being outside with nature.' When Skylie met Stephen, a security guard, he didn't have a passport. She added: 'He's a beginner. He likes to go a few times a year.' This year the couple have visited the Bahamas, Saint Thomas and Puerto Rico together. When Skylie travelled to Ireland and Switzerland, however, Stephen remained at home with her dog - a Corgi and Labrador mix called Dobbie. Skylie and Stephen do sometimes travel together and visited Magens Bay Beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands Pictured in Ireland, Skylie has told how she loves being outside and in nature when she is travelling She said: 'The whole trip revolves around what I want to do. It's all good memories. The trip is what you make it.' Skylie explained that her boyfriend looks forward to receiving pictures of her travels. She said: 'He wants to make sure I'm safe. He checks in and FaceTimes.' Skylie is embarking on a two-month solo trip at the end of August and will visit Portugal, Spain, France, Moscow, Turkey, the Netherlands, Poland, Japan, Indonesia and Canada. She said: 'I have everything planned out.' Skylie hopes to inspire others to take trips or time out for themselves. She said: 'Do it when you're young - time is never promised. 'Start small if you need to. Get comfortable with being with yourself.' An acclaimed artist who grew up in care - and was just five when he saw his younger brother tragically die in front of him - has praised Prince William's 'inspirational' initiative to end homelessness. Robi Walters, from Camden, North London, is one of the stars of Homelessness: Reframed, a new exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery in London which opens tomorrow. It features works by world famous photographer Rankin alongside pieces created by those with real experience of rough sleeping, sofa surfing or living in cars, hostels and other temporary accommodation. Around 300,000 people, nearly half of whom are children, live without a permanent roof over their heads at any one time in UK. So a year ago the Prince of Wales launched his 'Homewards' project to end homelessness in six key locations around the UK, bringing together charities, local authorities, private landlords and businesses for the first time in a targeted collaboration. Robi Walters, from Camden, North London, is one of the stars of Homelessness: Reframed, a new exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery in London which opens tomorrow The future king, who will see the exhibition for himself in the next few weeks, also wanted to find a way to 'change the narrative' and 'challenge negative perceptions and stereotypes around homelessness'. 'It's one of his key ambitions in launching the programme,' a spokesman said. 'If we are going to be able successfully tackle the issue we need to redress how society views and understands it. 'The idea of hosting an exhibition on the topic of homelessness came about through a conversation between the Prince and the Homewards team before the project launch. 'Alongside developing and delivering tangible solutionsthe prince also wanted to generate new imagery around the topic of homelessness. Far too often the images we see are of people rough sleeping, this is just one of the many different types of homelessness people experience.' Mr Walters, 50, experienced a hugely traumatic life growing up in and out of the care system. His mother, who had him at the age of just 16, was herself homeless at the time. 'My mum was very young, she was traumatised, she was in a half-way house for young women that were in trouble. She really didn't have the means or the capability of looking after me,' he said at today's launch. She went on to have another son, two years younger than him, and the pair of them were in and out of children's homes throughout their earliest years. Prince William delivered a speech during a visit to Lambeth to mark the first year of the homelessness initiative Homewards in London last month The Prince of Wales shows plans for the Duchy of Cornwall's first ever innovative housing project to help address homelessness in May 'That wasn't a good experience for me. The last one I was about four and I used to sit by the door in the room at night, looking outside to make sure the person who was on watch was still there, just to make sure we were safe. 'That's how I used to go to sleep at night without any adults I knew and without any support or care from someone I thought was safe ,' he said. Recalling in harrowing detail the night his younger brother died, Mr Walters fought back tears and he said: 'My brother and I were left in a house by ourselves when I was five and he was three. 'That night I went downstairs and found a box of matches on the arm of the sofa. I was flicking these matches into a straw bin and the bin caught on fire. 'We ran into the kitchen we filled up some saucepans desperate to put out this fire. And then we ran to the front door because it got out of control and the front door was locked. 'We ran upstairs into the first bedroom and I was trying to get my brother out of the window but it was a really high window for us and I couldn't get him out. He said he was getting a ladder. I was screaming out of the window. 'A car pulled up and a lady ran into the house. A man started shouting jump. I was screaming 'my brother my brother'. And then I just jumped out of the window.' Shaking as he revisits the memory, the artist says that after he jumped he saw someone carry his little brother out through the front door into an ambulance, which then took them to hospital. 'A lady inside the hospital said to me "how did the fire start?" I was leaning over my brother and I just said "save my brother, save my brother". And he was dead,' he says. Robi was one of the artists that had a black and white photograph taken by famous photographer Rankin Robi's artwork features two large circles - one small yellow one and the other a giant fiery red - made out of recycled objects 'For almost the rest of my life I carried the guilt of thinking it was my fault. I was responsible for my brother, I used to walk him to school. I was like an adult but I didn't know that. I felt like I had killed my own brother. ' After two nights in hospital he was taken home by his grandparents. His mother, he later discovered, had been sent to prison for threatening the person who had meant to be looking after her children on that fateful night. His elderly Jamaican grandparents, who both worked, were unable to look after him permanently and had no choice but to send him back into care. He was fostered by a 'really lovely' family but never felt settled as he had come from a racially diverse background and found himself living with two white parents in a middle class neighbourhood. 'My life was very difficult. I haven't lived on the streets but had the experience of being separated from every single thing you know and love. Your toys, your parents, your clothes, schools and friends,' he says. At the age of eight Mr Walters had to go to court and forced by a judge to choose who he wanted to live with. He was advised to pick his foster parents, even though he wanted to return to live with his mother, because his life would be 'more stable'. 'Standing in front of that judge was the worst thing that happened me. My mum went completely ballistic. She wanted me back and called me every name under the sun and we didn't speak for a long time. I was riddled with guilt,' he said. Fortunately the two have since reconnected and he now has a wonderful relationship with both his birth mother and his foster parents, as well as having a family of his own. His artwork features two large circles - one small yellow one and the other a giant fiery red - made out of recycled objects. They depict the life you live now, as well as the life you want. Some of the artwork read 'I'm just hungry' and 'This is awkward for me too' in the gallery Some of the art featured doors turned into art by young people during workshops led by local artists who have been homeless The collection featured signs of mainly hand-drawn signs sometimes seen next to a person sleeping rough 'The work is made from things that people discard and throw away. I take things people discard and make them look beautiful so they want them back. It is a reflection of my life,' Mr Walters explains. 'You can have loneliness in a loving family, a crowded room and in a busy city. What I want to ask is whether you can you see that your future is brighter than your present moment. ' He used discarded birthday cards and other ephemera for his piece named 'Are all journeys undertaken alone?' He said the circles represented now and the future: 'Are you able to see your future is brighter then the present moment?' or: Do 'you see your future as restricted and contracted?' Robi described Prince William's initiative to end homelessness as 'inspirational'. 'Coming from him, it means a lot,' he said. Lorna Tucker, a film maker who experienced a traumatic childhood and rough sleeping, also talked at the launch of her experience living on the streets as a teenager, as well as her previous heroin addiction and 15 years of living in temporary accommodation with her child as an addict. Award-winning social justice artist David Tovey created Home 2013, a shed-like structure made from scraps of metal and panels from a Peugeot 206, the model of car the artist lived in for six months Artwork by Phillip Colbert, which is set to feature in the new Saatchi exhibition 'I lost everything and people had kind of given up on me,' she said. 'I finally got the right help and the right support to deal with those issues. 'I always say living on the streets was the most horrific, traumatic thing that happened to me. But then to try and get clean and be put in a hostel in the middle of nowhere with no wrap-around care created really bad mental health problems. 'There were a lot of ups and downs but then I realised I could start to use my voice. I lost a lot of friends on the way who lost their lives. I want everyone to have hope that they can turn their lives around. ' She also praised William's Homewards initiative for its willingness to listen to the real life experience of those who have been homeless and the way the exhibition shows the positive stories of those who have come out the other side. The attraction has three parts: a collection of mainly hand-drawn signs sometimes seen next to a person sleeping rough, artwork commissions, and doors turned into art by young people, from the six areas where Homewards is working, during workshops led by local artists who have been homeless. One sign read: 'The smallest thing means the world to someone who has nothing. Please help if you can. Thank You Good Bless,' while another read: 'Fishing 4 some change please bite, thanks'. Award-winning social justice artist David Tovey created Home 2013, a shed-like structure made from scraps of metal and panels from a Peugeot 206, the model of car the artist lived in for six months. Mr Tovey said about his work: 'The car sculpture includes personal elements like folded clothing and bedding, which were part of my daily life. 'The car provided safety and security when I was ill and living on the streets. The sculpture is painted in a significant burgundy red colour, similar to a paratrooper's beret, reflecting my military background.' Queen Letizia of Spain went on a shopping spree with her mother-in-law and her two daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia, today. The royal, 51, channelled summer by putting on a colourful display as she donned a sleeveless pink and red tie-dye patterned frock, which showed off her toned arms and slender figure. She paired the outfit with a white patterned crochet bag, which she elegantly slung over her shoulder and opted for a pair of brown sandals. Letizia looked fresh-faced and wore her chestnut tresses down, stylishly placing her sunglasses on top of her head. The four royals made the most of the 31-degree weather in Mallorca today by stepping out for a spot of shopping in Palma de Mallorca. Queen Letizia of Spain went on a shopping spree with her mother-in-law and her two daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia, today Walking through the quaint, picturesque streets for their annual summer holiday, Letizia looked in high spirits as she took in the views. Princess Leonor, he eldest of child of King Felipe and Letizia, drove her family into the town centre in her humble Seat Ateca SUV. She was snapped behind the wheel of the grey car, with her sister, Infanta Sofia, in the passenger seat and her mother, Queen Letizia, in the back along with her grandmother, Queen Sofia. Looking typically stylish, Leonor kept her ensemble casual yet chic with a button-up blue floral strapless top. The heir to the Spanish throne, 18, paired the top with white linen trousers, hoop earrings, a blue crochet bag - similar to her mother's - and wedges. Leonor opted for natural makeup with just a hint of mascara and lipstick and wore her brown tresses down in a straightened blow-dry. Her younger sister, Infanta Sofia, went for more of a light and airy ensemble, sporting a black cropped t-shirt, white midi skirt and brown espadrilles. The 17-year-old paired her simple look with a clutch bag and also opted for basic makeup, wearing her long locks down. The royal, 51, channelled summer by putting on a colourful display as she donned a sleeveless pink and red tie-dye patterned frock, which showed off her toned arms and slender figure Princess Leonor drove her family into the town centre in her humble Seat Ateca SUV Letizia paired the outfit with a white patterned crochet bag, which she elegantly slung over her shoulder and opted for a pair of brown sandals Letizia looked fresh-faced and wore her chestnut tresses down, stylishly placing her sunglasses on top of her head Queen Letizia's mother-in-law, Queen Sofia, 85, oozed elegance in a blue tunic top and white linen trousers, similar to Leonor's, her granddaughter. Queen Sofia paired this look by stacking multiple beaded necklaces, varying in length, on top of each other, along with some navy wedges. The foursome posed for snaps during their day out as they browsed clothes, with Princess Leonor flicking through the clothing rack to see if any garments caught her eye. In one sweet snap, Leonor is seen placing her hand on her mother's shoulder as they explore Palma de Mallorca. Yesterday evening, the family was seen dining out, along with King Felipe and aunt - Princess Irene of Greece and Denmark - at Mia restaurant in Palma, along with Tatiana Radziwill - Sofia's second cousin - and her husband Dr Jean Henri Fruchaud. It's not the first time the diner has enjoyed a royal presence, with the family visiting the same place in September as well. The regal relatives appeared to be in good spirits as they enjoyed their evening together while on their Mallorcan getaway. And Mia appears to be the spot for VIP guests - as actress Teri Hatcher, 59, was pictured enjoying dinner with her daughter at the same restaurant. The united display comes after a challenging few months for the monarchs - after bombshell claims made by the Queen's ex-brother-in-law, who alleges that he had an 'affair' with the royal after her marriage to King Felipe. The Spanish Royal Family was rocked by outlandish claims from Jaime Del Burgo - who in July caused shockwaves again when he claimed that he is still in contact with the mother-of-two in an interview with Argentinian newspaper Clarin. Walking through the quaint, picturesque streets for their annual summer holiday, Letizia looked in high spirits as she took in the views The four royals made the most of the 31-degree weather on the island today by stepping out for a spot of shopping Looking typically stylish, Leonor kept her ensemble casual yet chic with a button-up blue floral strapless top The Household has since put on a strong united front - with Letizia having not been pictured undertaking a solo outing before since June 25 - but recently making the leap to appear on her own again last month. Instead, the glamorous Queen was surrounded by her supportive family during engagements, appearing alongside her lookalike daughters, Infanta Sofia and Princess Leonor, or clinging onto her husband's arm. Del Burgo dated Queen Letizia in the late 1990s when she was still working as a newsreader, before going on to marry her sister, Telma, from 2012 until 2014. However, in a bombshell book released in November 2023, called Letizia y Yo and written by 91-year-old journalist Jaime Penafiel, Del Burgo alleged he and the Spanish Queen carried on their romantic affair even as she was about to walk down the aisle to marry King Felipe. Since the explosive book was published, Jaime Penafiel has been sacked from his newspaper El Mundo. In the book, the businessman told the author that he met Letizia before 2000 and their relationship began on a romantic trip to Venice, years before she met King Felipe. Jaime - who is the son of the former politician Jaime Ignacio del Burgo - claims he was planning to propose to Letizia when she announced that she was dating a mysterious 'diplomat' over dinner at the Ritz hotel in Madrid in 2002. Describing how 'serious and significant' their relationship was, Panafiel made the unlikely claim that Jaime was 'carrying an engagement ring his his pocket' that evening. Letizia reportedly told him that she had 'met someone who would oblige her to quit her profession', which Jaime said led him to deduce her mystery partner was Felipe. After the pair reportedly decided to just be friends, Jaime is said to have advised Letizia: 'Don't announce the romance, just the wedding.' The heir to the Spanish throne, 18, paired the top with white linen trousers, hoop earrings, a blue crochet bag - similar to her mother's - and wedges Letizia looked effortlessly elegant as she enjoyed the day out with her daughters and mother-in-law Following their engagement announcement in 2003, Letizia - who had divorced her first husband in 1999 - reportedly asked Jaime to be a witness at their wedding. Jaime also made the incredible claim that the Queen asked to see him the night before the wedding at the exclusive El Latigazo restaurant in Madrid - where she asked him to 'never leave' her. He sensationally claimed: 'When we met, she took hold of my hand and asked me why I had never asked her to marry me. Obviously I didn't reply. I encouraged her as best I could. The last thing she said to me before we said goodbye to each other in that restaurant was a request: "Never leave me."' Following the wedding, Jaime described how Letizia was like a 'fox in a chicken coop' as she was 'cleverer than any of them'. Del Burgo - who says the Queen nicknamed him her 'yogi pal' - claims he still had a romantic relationship with Letizia even after the wedding in 2004. He also claims he has kept 'photographs, videos, mobile phones' and text messages as evidence. In the book, Jaime sensationally claims that Letizia whispered that she loved him when they were lying in a hammock by a pool at her home following Princess Leonor's birth. One of the most damaging claims Jaime reportedly makes is that Queen Letizia suggested they have a child together using a surrogate in Los Angeles. Penafiel goes on to write that when Sofia was born, Jaime del Burgo became uncle to both of the girls. It then quotes him as saying: 'It was a beautiful period. I didn't have children, and those girls made me so happy. I was working in Brazil and suffered a pulmonary embolism. 'I was in intensive care for a fortnight. I managed to get the Albert Einstein Hospital to give me a telephone Letizia and I spoke to each other every day on [the phone]. 'During my visits to Madrid I would often go to the cinema with Felipe, Letizia and some friends. Letizia and I would always sit together, holding hands. They were moments of happiness.' However in August 2011, Jaime alleges Letizia abruptly ended their relationship when she called him and said: 'We can't continue seeing each other.' Following this, Jaime alleges that a female friend told him to get in touch with Telma - who he had met when he first started dating Letizia. The following year, the pair got engaged after just two months of dating. The Queen's sister already had her daughter Amanda from her relationship with ex-partner Enrique Martin Llop. At this time, Jaime claims he was still close to Letizia and Felipe and he claimed he bonded with his future wife after the four of them went to the cinema in Madrid one day. After tying the knot in an intimate ceremony, the couple celebrated their marriage with a larger reception in Italy - which was attended by their family. Jaime del Burgo is quoted in the book as saying: 'When the guests congratulated us, Letizias turn came and kissing me on the cheek, she whispered into my ear, "Well be together again."' In 2012, the pair relocated to New York to start their married life - but Telma returned to Barcelona the same year before announcing their permanent separation in 2014. He then goes on to outrageously claim that Letizia 'didn't stop until she managed to make [Jaime's marriage fail' - citing it as the 'only battle he'd lost in his life'. In December, Jaime posted a selfie of Queen Letizia on X as 'evidence' of their relationship. In the selfie, the royal can be seen wearing a black pashmina - which Jaime claims belonged to him - and he also typed out a message, supposedly sent to him by the Spanish Queen. It read: 'Love. I wear your pashmina. It's like feeling you by my side. It takes care of me. It protects me. I count the hours until we see each other again. Love you. Get out of here. Yours,' After sharing the image, other X users questioned the validity of Jaime's claims - given there is no evidence that Letizia sent him the photo or accompanying message. A spokesperson for the Spanish Royal Family previously told FEMAIL: 'We have no comment to make about this.' A driver shared his desperate note to a parking officer after being written up three times in one week. A viral photo revealed the handwritten note begging for lenience because the car's parking sticker had expired but a new one hadn't arrived in the mail yet. 'Please stop giving me tickets,' it read. 'I already have three this week. I am obviously broke already. 'I have ordered my new sticker. It's in the mail. I can't make it get here faster. Have some mercy, you are ruining my life.' The parking fine could have been written up because of an expired registration or damaged licence plate. Australia also offers some drivers free parking stickers in their residential areas which may have been missing from the car. Parking officers typically have strict quotas to meet when it comes to giving out tickets, which could explain the multiple write ups. A driver shared his desperate note to a parking officer after being written up three times Another driver from the UK revealed they could get written up for the same offence every four hours in certain parts of the country. Many were shocked that the parking officer wrote up several tickets in the same week. 'Usually you wouldn't get the second and third as there's a grace period to go to traffic court to show you did the paperwork to drop the first ticket,' one said. 'Seriously, you gave the ticket already, give us time to make the correction,' another address the ticket officer. 'I shouldn't have to register the same car every year,' a man complained. A driver revealed, 'I ordered my tags in the mail and it took 34 days to get here.' But others weren't as understanding. 'If only people had an entire year to plan ahead to know when their tags would expire ... oh, wait,' one said sarcastically. 'Here is an idea, stop driving the car until you get the sticker and then the tickets will stop,' another added. 'Needs a ticket for obstructing the view with a stupid sign,' a man wrote. Keeping a close watch on Bangladesh situation: Centre at all-party meet External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar chaired on Tuesday an all-party meeting on the situation in violence-struck Bangladesh, during which he said that India is keeping a close watch on the developments in the neighbouring country. EAM Jaishankar informed all the political parties about the safety of Indian nationals residing there and about the steps taken by the Union government. "Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended," the EAM said in a post on social media platform X. The government informed that around 20,000 Indians are in Bangladesh, most of whom were students, of which around 8,000 have returned to their homeland following an advisory released by India, sources quoted EAM Jaishankar as saying. The EAM also said that the government is in touch with the Bangladesh Army, and the situation there is constantly changing, and as the changes happen, the government will again give information about it. Additionally, sources suggest that nothing has been decided on former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's future plans, and it was suggested that she should be given some time to decide where she wants to go. Besides EAM Jaishankar, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju participated in the meeting. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, T. R. Balu from DMK, SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav, TMC leader Sudip Bandopadhyay, BJD leader Sasmit Patra, along with other floor leaders of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, were present at the meeting. On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting at his official residence, during which he was briefed about the entire crisis in the neighbouring nation. On Monday, Hasina landed at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad hours after resigning as the country's Prime Minister and leaving Dhaka en route to Delhi. Hasina arrived in India in a military transport plane of Bangladesh Air Force as thousands of protesters stormed and vandalised 'Ganabhaban' - the official residence of the Prime Minister in Dhaka. It was reported that over 100 people were killed and more than 1,000 injured in the clashes that took place between police and the protesters on Sunday. The student-led non-cooperation movement put immense pressure on Hasina's government over the past few weeks. The students had been protesting against a 30 per cent reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters who wrested independence for Bangladesh from Pakistan in a bloody civil war in 1971 in which, according to Dhaka officials, three million people were killed in the genocide by Pakistani troops and their supporters. Niki Ridge had been taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT), in the form of patches, for four years when she began experiencing hot flushes again so she asked her GP about increasing her dose. Id had hot flushes in the run-up to the menopause but HRT had sorted them out, says Niki, 58, a former IT manager for a bank, who lives with her husband Steve, 57, and their sons Jamie, 21, and Ewan, 18, in Swindon, Wiltshire. But this time I was also getting night sweats. Id wake every night drenched. It was unbearable. At first, I thought it was down to my new pyjamas, which had polyester in the fabric, but the sweats carried on even when I changed them. The sheets were soaked through every night I had to lie on a towel I was so sweaty. Niki Ridge, 58, had been taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT), in the form of patches, for four years when she began experiencing hot flushes again After three months, thinking her menopause symptoms were returning, in January 2022 Niki saw her GP, who agreed to up her HRT dose. But just as she was about to leave the surgery, she mentioned a persistent cough shed had over the same three months, and lower back ache. They were just throwaway remarks neither was really bothering me and I hadnt come to see her about them at all, says Niki. But my GP booked an urgent chest X-ray as Id had the cough for more than three weeks. I wasnt too worried as it really wasnt bad and I hadnt been feeling unwell. Yet the very next day after the X-ray, her doctor phoned to say that something had showed up on her lung and she had a two-week urgent referral to be seen at hospital. Curious, Niki logged into her records on the NHS app and was horrified by what she saw: the X-ray had found a large nodule and several smaller ones in her lung. It was a huge shock, she says. I couldnt believe what I was seeing. I didnt feel unwell yet I was being fast-tracked for suspected lung cancer. Worse news was to come a few days later, after she underwent a CT scan arranged by her GP to investigate the lower back ache. T his time, when her GP called, Niki was out walking the family dog, Luna (a springer and cocker spaniel cross). She told Niki there was something suspicious on one of her kidneys. It was another two-week referral, so I knew it was a cancer investigation, Niki says. I walked back to my car in tears. Nikis cancer had, in fact, started in her kidneys and then spread to her lungs. Doctors warned her that it was incurable. I thought my time was up, she says. Like most people, I thought once a cancer has spread to multiple sites, theres no hope. In fact, a revolution in cancer therapy over the past decade or so has transformed the outcome for many patients such as Niki. This is largely due to the emergence of immunotherapy drugs that harness the bodys own immune system to tackle the disease. These medicines can help and, in some cases, turn cancer into a chronic if still serious condition that patients live with. Because these treatments are relatively new, many experts have been reluctant to call them a cure but that may soon change, says Professor Paul Nathan, a consultant medical oncologist at the NHS Mount Vernon Cancer Centre in Middlesex, and the private HCA Leaders in Oncology clinic in London. Most cancers, once they have escaped and spread around the body, cant be cured, although many can be controlled for some time, he says. However, some of the recent advances may now be curing some patients, particularly with advanced kidney cancer although we will not know for sure until we get long-term data. Of course, they dont work for everyone, but I have some patients with advanced kidney cancer who we first treated with immunotherapy more than ten years ago. That would never have happened before the new treatments; back then, patients lived on average 12 to 18 months. More than 13,000 cases of kidney cancer are diagnosed each year in the UK. That could rise to nearly 22,000 a year by 2040, according to Cancer Research UK. Professor Grant Stewart, an honorary consultant urological surgeon at Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge, says: The incidence of many cancers has either plateaued or is decreasing but kidney cancer is on the rise we dont fully understand why but its probably a mixture of an increase in obesity and greater use of scans, which often spot kidney tumours by chance when being done for an unrelated problem. K idney cancer symptoms can be vague. One of the main signs is blood in urine but this also occurs in urinary tract infections, kidney stones and bladder cancer. Other symptoms include a lump or swelling in the back under the ribs, pain between the ribs and waist that is constant, night sweats, loss of appetite, weight loss and feeling tired. But these often only become noticeable when the cancer is at an advanced stage. Around 90 per cent of people with small, curable kidney cancers [4cm or less in diameter] will have no symptoms at all and tend only to be picked up when they are being scanned for other things, says Professor Stewart. These types of kidney cancer are curable with surgery or thermal ablation [where a probe is used to destroy the cancer cells with heat] which can be repeated if needed. The charity Kidney Cancer UK is now calling for the current NHS screening programmes for lung cancer (offered to 55-74 year olds at risk of lung cancer) and aortic aneurysms (a dangerous bulge in the main artery, screening is offered to men the year they turn 65) to include a quick scan of the kidneys. Nikis kidney cancer diagnosis was confirmed after a biopsy in February 2022. Although the disease had spread to her lungs, doctors assured her it was treatable with immunotherapy. I cried when they said it was incurable, says Niki. Id been researching survival rates for people with stage 4 [cancer that has spread] kidney cancer and the statistics were scary only 15 per cent survived for five years. I had been catastrophising based on these figures, not realising they dont take into account some of the newer treatments and are just averages. Niki and Steve didnt tell their boys then aged 16 and 19 about her diagnosis initially: We wanted to know what the plan was before we started having to answer everyones questions, says Niki. The boys were both very brave, but it was obviously worrying for them. But we stayed positive and said I was having treatment and things were going well. First, Niki had infusions of two immunotherapy drugs nivolumab and ipilimumab every three weeks for three months. Both drugs work by turning the immune system back on so immune cells called T-cells can attack the cancer cells. She has had monthly infusions of nivolumab ever since. I had some minor side-effects, such as itchy skin but at my first three-month scan my kidney tumour had shrunk significantly, as had the smaller tumours in my lung, says Niki. By December 2022, the main tumour was half the original size and the ones in my lungs had disappeared. However, new tumours appeared on her spine in April 2022, followed by a 5cm tumour in her breast. But both disappeared with immunotherapy and radiotherapy. And in January 2023, a 3cm tumour on her brain was removed in a five-hour operation, followed by five successive days of radiotherapy. Since then, all Nikis scans have shown the tumours in her kidney and lung are stable and there are no new cancers elsewhere. Im feeling really well and hoping I can carry on like this for the foreseeable future, she says. Its a good place to be considering two-and-a-half years ago things looked so bleak for me. Im just back from a fantastic holiday in Iceland and enjoying early retirement and seeing my boys grow up. I didnt know patients like me existed. For further information go to kcuk.org.uk Time will tell: How body parts change over time This week: Prostate and penis The prostate a walnut-shaped organ below the bladder can enlarge with age, while the penis shrinks. In both cases this can be due to changes in testosterone levels, explains Professor Chris Eden, a urologist at the Royal Surrey County Hospital. An enlarged prostate can cause a range of issues, he says, mainly resulting in problems going to the loo, including having to wait to get started (hesitancy), a decreased urinary stream and incomplete bladder emptying. Lifestyle changes such as drinking less alcohol or caffeine which irritate the bladder and make urinary symptoms worse may help. Medications that relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder can also make a difference. Meanwhile, the penis shrinks with age mainly because of under use, says Professor Vijay Sangar, a consultant urological surgeon at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester. But there arent any health issues associated with this. He also points out that weight gain can also make the penis appear smaller (though this is an optical illusion). A Middlesbrough man is lucky to be alive after a catastrophic parachute malfunction during a skydive left him plunging back to earth at 70mph. The 31 year-old suffered eight broken risks and a fractured spine, leaving him permanently paralysed and reliant on a wheelchair to get around. Kirk Trainor, of Middlesbrough has done nearly 700 successful jumps, but on the fateful day in May, the mechanism that slows the parachute's decent failed to work. Although the parachute slowed his fall slightly, the plummet was still fast enough to kill him. Now, Mr Trainor's friends have launched fundraising initatives to help raise funds for experimental private treatments that could help him walk again. Kirk Trainor, of Middlesbrough, who has done nearly 700 jumps, suffered eight broken ribs and a fractured spine The 31-year-old is still in hospital two months after losing control of his parachute in the terrifying fall on May 11 Multiple appeals have been set up online, including a GoFundMe page that has raised nearly 14,000 in just five days. Another had over 1,340 in donations of its 6,000 target. Recounting the terrifying ordeal, Mr Trainor said: 'My hand slipped off the toggle which brakes the parachute as I was coming in to land and I didn't have time before hitting the ground. 'I landed feet first and all the force of the impact went into my lower spine just above the lumbar. My legs just stopped working and I knew it was serious. 'It's like being in a motorbike accident but I'm lucky to be alive. It could have been worse people have died in similar accidents.' He added: 'My most critical injury has been the spinal cord damage that has resulted in lower limb paralysis with no movement from my belly button down.' He did not have enough time to time to recover the toggle before hitting ground at an estimated 70 mph To help him fund his wheelchair and hopefully pioneering stem cell treatment, friends Mike Needham and Scott Middleton, have started fundraisers Mr Trainor found himself in trouble on the jump when he lost control of a toggle which connected to a line used to make the parachute to break or slow down To help with the financial costs, his friends Mr Needham and Mr Middleton, have set up appeals online, one of which has raised more than 19,600. Another had over 1,340 in donations of its 6,000 target After undergoing surgery to stabilise his spine, he remains in hospital recovering where he has now been for two months. While NHS doctors have few treatments to offer Mr Trainor, private clinics offer experimental therapies like stem cell transplants. Stem cells, which are 'shape-shifting' cells, are able to develop into many different cell types, and can be used to help re-grow nerve fibres in the damaged spinal cord, according to UK Stem Cell Foundation. Taken from the patients own body, the cells are purified and then reimplanted in an area where cells have died. Mr Trainor's GoFundMe page reads: 'Over the next few months as Kirk continues his treatment, I [friend] aim to help him maintain some independence by raising funds for a lightweight wheelchair, which costs around 6,000. 'This will aid in his daily mobility and enable him to return to work. 'Should we raise more than needed for the wheelchair, the additional funds will go towards Kirk's stem cell treatment trial which is approximately 100,000. 'Every contribution no matter the size, will significantly impact and alleviate the hardships Kirk faces during this challenging period. 'As Kirk's friend, I am appealing to my family, friends, colleagues, and the broader community to gather the necessary funds for his recovery, which will undoubtedly take time.' 'Miracle' drugs designed to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease won't relieve the national burden of dementia, leading experts have warned. Researchers said that, despite the excitement surrounding the medications like lecanemab and donanemab, they are likely to result in a small improvement in Alzheimer's symptoms, and only for those in the earliest stages of the disease. They added a potential rollout of the drugs could 'involve considerable resources' which 'will be extremely challenging for even the best-funded healthcare systems' to supply to patients. The drugs, known as amyloid immunotherapies, work with the immune system to clear the build-up of a harmful protein called amyloid from the brains of people with early-stage Alzheimer's. It is thought that these proteins interfere with messages sent between different parts of the brain, resulting in the memory and independence robbing symptoms. Donanemab and lecanemab (pictured), have both been proven to slow the progress of the memory-robbing illness in its early stages but Uk experts have warned they might be being overhyped The two drugs have been proven to slow progression of the disease by as much as 60 per cent in trials by helping to remove the build up of the protein amyloid in the brain. Experts have long believed they could herald a new era of dementia treatment by tackling the cause rather than just alleviating symptoms A number of amyloid immunotherapy drugs such lecanemab and donanemab are already approved in the US and are currently being assessed for approval in the UK by medicine regulators. But a team, led by the University of Cambridge experts, said current evidence doesn't make it clear if amyloid immunotherapy 'can ever significantly reduce population-level dementia morbidity at scale'. Publishing their assessment in the journal, Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association, they also claimed results from those involved in trials may not be applicable to Alzheimer's patients with more severe disease. Lead author Dr Sebastian Walsh, an expert in public health at Cambridge, said: 'If approved, the drugs are likely to be relevant only for a relatively small cohort of Alzheimer's patients. 'So potential recipients will need to undergo a range of assessments before being given access to the drugs. 'Plus, effect sizes seen in the trials are very small and the drugs will need be administered as early in the disease process as possible, when symptoms are mild - and people in these phases of disease can be hard to identify.' Co-author Professor Edo Richard, a professor of neurology at Radboud University in the Netherlands, added: 'If these drugs are approved by regulators in the UK and Europe, and become available, it is understandable that some people with early Alzheimer's will want to try these drugs, given their despair living with this dreadful disease. 'But there is a lot of hyperbole around the reporting of these drugs, and significant effort will be needed to provide balanced information to patients to enable informed decisions.' The paper highlighted numerous issues with the drugs including the short-term effects are 'small', 'adverse events are frequent, treatment regimens are burdensome, and crucially, long-term effects are unknown'. The team added: 'At a population level, there is always likely to be a trade-off between breadth of access and magnitude of benefit for any given individual.' 'At a health system level, rollout of treatment even for only narrowly defined patient groups will involve considerable resources to identify and treat eligible patients, with profound opportunity costs.' According to the Alzheimer's Society, about 982,000 people in the UK are living with dementia. The figure is expected to rise to 1.4 million by 2040. Jen Keen, head of policy at Alzheimer's Society, said: 'This research highlights potential barriers surrounding new treatments for Alzheimer's disease if approved, and we must be honest about the challenges we face. Researchers said there is 'a lot of hyperbole' around medications like lecanemab and donanemab which are said to slow down early stages of Alzheimer's, the leading cause of dementia. 'Confirming eligibility for new treatment requires specific diagnostic tests and, currently, a third of people living with dementia in the UK don't get a diagnosis at all. 'We need to see investment into diagnostic infrastructure and workforce to ensure that people who are eligible for new treatments can access them when they're most effective, which appears to be in the early stages of Alzheimer's. 'Meanwhile, regulators will scrutinise the evidence around these treatments and Alzheimer's Society awaits decisions from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence on both lecanemab and donanemab. 'These treatments are not a cure and they aren't for everyone living with Alzheimer's disease - they are a part of the puzzle. 'But improving dementia diagnosis can help us prepare for new treatments whilst also benefiting many more people living with dementia. 'Despite the issues raised in this research, we remain at an important and exciting moment for dementia. 'Scientists are learning more all the time about Alzheimer's disease and our ability to slow it down. Professor Carol Brayne, co-director of University of Cambridge's Cambridge Public Health unit, said: 'Even in high-income countries, rolling out such types of treatments at scale is highly challenging, but most dementia occurs in low and middle-income countries. 'Health systems in these countries are highly unlikely to have the resources required to offer these new drugs, even to a very narrow group. 'Other compelling evidence suggests that attention to inequalities and health experience across people's lives could have greater impact on the rates of dementia in populations. Most dementia is more complicated than a single protein. 'With an ageing population, we urgently need effective ways to support people living with dementia, but while the current amyloid immunotherapies may show a glint of promise for very selected groups, it's clear these drugs will not address dementia risk at scale.' A spokesman for donanemab manufacturer Eli Lilly said: 'Any new treatments are reviewed by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency and would subsequently be considered by National Institute for Health and Care Excellence to determine clinical and cost-effectiveness and patient eligibility. 'Access to any new medicine will also depend on the appropriate diagnostic and treatment pathway being available for healthcare professionals and patients. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia. The disease can cause anxiety, confusion and short-term memory loss 'Lilly is committed to partnering with the NHS and regulatory bodies to ensure new innovations can reach the people that need them.' Last year, the medical world rejoiced as the first drug to clearly slow the progression of Alzheimer's was approved in the US. Manufacturers said trial results showed lecanemab also known as Leqembi slowed cognitive and functional decline in early-stage Alzheimer's patients by 27 per cent over 18 months. This is the equivalent of a five-month slowdown in the progression of the disease. It was followed by results for donanemab which trails showed slowed progression of Alzheimer's by as much as 35 per cent. But experts have warned that people who take the drugs actually lose volume in their brains. There have also been concerns about brain bleeds among patients taking amyloid immunotherapies. Trial results for lecanemab show that around 21 per cent of participants who received the drug experienced brain swelling or bleeding, compared to 9 per cent of those who received a placebo. The majority of patients had no side effects, or had very mild symptoms, while most who experienced brain swelling or bleeding saw these issues resolve by the end of the trial. Experts have also previously highlighted how more than 80 per cent of Brits at risk of Alzheimer's could miss out on the new drugs due to a lack testing for the disease. Instead, scientists from London estimated just 14 per cent of patients referred to clinics were actually likely to benefit from the treatments. Researchers said there was a 'clear and urgent' need to improve NHS screening to work out who may benefit from new Alzheimer's drugs. A hypervirulent bacteria that is resistant to antibiotics and could potentially spark the next pandemic has been spotted in over a dozen countries, including Britain. In a briefing, representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) warned about the potentially deadly impact of a little-known bacteria called Klebsiella pneumoniae. The pathogen has been seen in the UK and US, as well as Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Canada, Cambodia, China, India, Iran, Japan, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Switzerland and Thailand. Of these countries, 12 including the UK reported a specific strain of concern that has become a superbug, resistant to all antibiotics used to treat it. It comes as a separate report by WHO chiefs named Klebsiella pneumoniae as a 'high risk' pathogen that could spark the next pandemic. While Klebsiella pneumoniae has been around for years, experts have grown increasingly concerned about a 'hypervirulent' strain, called hvKp. Pictured: A graphical representation of the Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria While Klebsiella pneumoniae has been around for years, experts have grown increasingly concerned about the 'hypervirulent' strain, called hvKp. 'Hypervirulent' in this context means an increased capability to make healthy people severely ill, not just groups like the elderly or immunocompromised individuals like cancer patients, who are traditionally more vulnerable to these kinds of infections. To make matters worse a particular sub-strain of hvKp, dubbed hvKp ST23, has become resistant to 'last-line' antibiotics called carbapenems, powerful cousins of the more commonly known penicillin. These 'last-line' drugs are the final remaining option for when a strain of bacteria like Klebsiella pneumoniae has become immune to other more common medications a process called antimicrobial resistance. This means in many countries medics can do nothing but try and keep a patient alive long enough for their body to fight off the infection alone without direct pharmaceutical aid. And what's worse is these strains have the capacity to 'generate outbreaks' and infect more people, the WHO report states. Klebsiella pneumoniae is considered one the leading causes of hospital acquired infections. Some studies estimate it is behind between a fifth and a third of pneumonias, a general term for inflammation of the air sacs in the lungs usually caused by an infection like Klebsiella pneumoniae, acquired in hospital. The bacteria can also trigger other kinds of serious health problems including urinary tract infections, meningitis, a dangerous infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, and even deadly sepsis. While over a dozen countries told the WHO they had identified cases of concerning Klebsiella pneumoniae strains, only 43 nations out of the 124 the global health body asked for data responded. This means the true extent of its global spread could be greater. The WHO noted that a lack of testing for individual strains of the bacteria in some European countries may further contribute to an underestimation of prevelance. 'Since the detection of hypervirulence is not part of routine diagnostic microbiology, hvKp may go unnoticed,' the report reads. This graph shows the combined direct and associated deaths from antibiotic-resistant bacteria per global region measured in the new research. Africa and South Asia had the greatest number of deaths per 100,000 people, however Western European countries like, the UK, still recorded a significantly high number of fatalities Figures showed a recent sharp increase in the number of prescriptions for antibiotics following years of decline. According to the UKHSA, 58,224 people in England had an antibiotic-resistant infection in 2022, up four per cent on 2021 The WHO added: 'The clinical presentation and extended disease spectrum of hvKp has not yet been encountered by many clinicians in countries of the European region.' The WHO concluded its report by saying based on current evidence the risk posed by hvKp to global health was 'moderate'. It recommended that nations ramp up their laboratory diagnostic capacity to better track hvKp cases as well enhancing those labs' ability to analyse the genetic make-up of such strains for genes that boost its ability to infect people and dodge drugs. UK health officials have also noted a concerning diminishing in the effectiveness of drugs designed to tackle Klebsiella pneumoniae in general. A UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) Report published late last year detailed how Klebsiella pneumoniae was now 17.4 per cent resistant to frontline antibiotics. This was an increase from 13.5 per cent in 2018. WHAT IS ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE? Antibiotics have been doled out unnecessarily by GPs and hospital staff for decades, fueling once harmless bacteria to become superbugs. The World Health Organization (WHO) has previously warned if nothing is done the world is heading for a 'post-antibiotic' era. It claimed common infections, such as chlamydia, will become killers without immediate solutions to the growing crisis. Bacteria can become drug resistant when people take incorrect doses of antibiotics or if they are given out unnecessarily. Former chief medical officer Dame Sally Davies claimed in 2016 that the threat of antibiotic resistance is as severe as terrorism. Figures estimate that superbugs will kill 10 million people each year by 2050, with patients succumbing to once harmless bugs. Around 700,000 people already die yearly due to drug-resistant infections including tuberculosis (TB), HIV and malaria across the world. Concerns have repeatedly been raised that medicine will be taken back to the 'dark ages' if antibiotics are rendered ineffective in the coming years. In addition to existing drugs becoming less effective, there have only been one or two new antibiotics developed in the last 30 years. In 2019, the WHO warned antibiotics are 'running out' as a report found a 'serious lack' of new drugs in the development pipeline. Without antibiotics, C-sections, cancer treatments and hip replacements will become incredibly 'risky', it was said at the time. Advertisement Cases of Klebsiella pneumoniae have also been on the rise in England. UKHSA data recorded a total of 11,823 cases in 2022/23 a rise of a just over a fifth compared to the 9,806 cases recorded five years prior. It comes as a separate WHO report named Klebsiella pneumoniae as one of the 30-plus pathogens that are most likely to cause the next pandemic. The rising threat of Klebsiella pneumoniae is just one example of a pressing global problems called antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Colloquially called 'superbugs', experts have warned the rise of pathogens which have evolved resistance to the drugs commonly used to help patients fend them off will make the Covid pandemic look 'minor' in comparison. Professor Dame Sally Davies, Englands former chief medical officer, has warned that AMR could kill more people globally than climate change if the threat isn't taken seriously. AMR already kills an estimated 1.2million people globally each year, more than HIV or malaria, and contributes to the deaths of 5million more. In Britain specifically AMR is thought kill almost 8,000 Brits a year with many more suffering long term health consequences from being infected. The WHO itself predicts the global direct death toll from AMR will grow to 10million per year by 2050. Globally, over and inappropriate use of drugs like antibiotics is one of the driving factors behind bugs developing AMR. This includes people taking drugs like antibiotics when they don't need to but also giving them to farm animals on an industrial scale in an attempt to pre-emptively stop infections and boost profits. Such agricultural use allows massive amounts to leak into the environment, where pathogens can develop a resistance. Experts have warned that if AMR becomes increasingly widespread it could lead to surgeries like caesareans, and treatments that lower the immune system like chemo and organ transplants becoming far riskier, with potentially deadly consequences. One of few ways AMR can potentially be combatted is the development of new classes of antibiotics that pathogens have not yet adapted to. However, no such breakthroughs have been made since the 80s. One barrier to developing new drugs is cost. Industry estimates suggest the cost of developing one new antibiotic is 1 billion, far below the estimated revenue of selling one of roughly 35 million a year. Revenue is predicted to be so low because health chiefs will only deploy these drugs as a last resort, in a bid to stop, or slow, pathogens developing a new resistance to them and taking AMR back to square one. Different funding models have been suggested to fix this, like a subscription model that pays companies for access for superbug beating drugs on an annual basis regardless of use, but these have yet to bear fruit. Officials are urging women that some at-home facials can cause 'severe chemical burns' and 'disfiguring scars.' The FDA issued the warning last week to consumers not to use DIY chemical peels without the supervision of a dermatologist or else they risk 'serious skin injuries.' The agency's letter said: 'The [FDA] has not approved any chemical peel products, and consumers should only consider using chemical peel products under the supervision of a dermatologist or licensed and trained practitioner.' Chemical peels can resurface your face by removing your top layers of skin, increasing collagen and decreasing wrinkles, leading to a younger appearance of the face and neck. When used under the supervision of a dermatologist, chemical peels can be safe and effective The FDA letter included 13 specific chemical peel products from six different retailers The treatments help shed the top layers of skin and are touted as solutions to acne, scars and discoloration. However, these chemicals are powerful and if not used appropriately, they can eat through too many layers of skin, leading to chemical burns, pain, swelling, infection and skin color changes. The FDA listed 13 products from six different companies and issued warning letters to each of those companies. It's unclear what prompted the FDA to issue the warning, but the agency specified that none of these products have been approved for at-home treatment. In appears that in response, several of those products were removed from some of the retailer websites. The products include those from Amazon and Walmart, and smaller companies like Isis.Gold, Matte Beauty, Skin Beauty Solutions and RePare Skincare. The letter specifies that these products are safe for professionals to use, but customers who use them at home run the risk of damaging their skin. At their cheapest these cost about $13 and at their most expensive they cost about $99, depending on the retailer, chemicals used and the size of the package. For a light chemical peel, a dermatologist may charge between $100 to $300, a report from CareCredit, a healthcare financial services company, found. But for a more intense procedure, which uses more concentrated chemicals and has a higher risk involved, the average cost is around $1,800, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. A chemical peel is a gel-like solution applied to the face that contains an acidic chemical that eats through the top layers of old skin to reveal newer, fresher layers underneath. Some common chemicals used in the peels include lactic acid, salicylic acid and glycolic acid. The skin has three main sections, with each containing many compressed layers of skin cells. These form your skin and house its imperfections - including scarring, acne and discoloration. In the popular TV series Sex and the City, character Samantha Jones is confronted with the unsightly aftermath of a chemical peel gone wrong Depending on the intensity of the treatment, chemical peels can take off the first section of the skin, called the epidermis, or penetrate deeper into the second section, called the dermis. A doctor may recommend different types of peels depending on your goals. Light chemical peels can be used to treat fine lines, acne and dryness, and can be used under professional supervision semi-regularly, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Deeper, more intense chemical peels produce the most dramatic results and can be used to eliminate pre-cancerous growths, deep wrinkles, blotchy skin or acne scars. These are done sparingly, and sometimes under light sedation. After determining what you want out of a chemical peel, a practitioner can apply the solution to the face with a brush, cotton applicator or gauze. The solution essentially eats through and damages the top layers of the skin. They then slough off, revealing the newer layers underneath. However, if the solution is left on the skin for too long, the type of chemical used is too intense for your needs, or you apply the product too frequently, it can eat down into more delicate parts of the skin, causing the 'disfiguring scars.' The treatments can also cause pain, swelling, infection and skin color changes. In extreme cases, these may require surgery or emergency care from a doctor, the letter said. A man in Texas suffered heart attack-like symptoms after drinking too much water. John Putnam, 74, was working as a landscaper in June when the temperatures reached 100F (37.7c). By the time he mowed his second lawn of the day, Mr Putnam was so thirsty he had consumed almost three gallons of water within five hours. However, he was overcome with nausea and fatigue, which turned into chest pain and trouble breathing by evening. Mr Putnam was rushed to the hospital for what he believed was a heart attack - instead, he had suffered water poisoning, which develops as a result of there being too much water in the body and not enough sodium. John Putnam, 74, suffered water toxicity after guzzling three gallons of water within five hours Ashley Summers, 35, was a daycare worker and mother of two. She passed away soon after the July 4th holiday last year from water toxicity or hyponatremia 'I didn't even know there was such a phenomenon,' Mr Putnam told the Wall Street Journal. 'I was really chugging down the water thinking that's what I needed.' The incident comes about a year after Indiana mother Ashley Summers, 35, died after guzzling 64 ounces of water in just 20 minutes. Researchers have also suspected that water toxicity, also known as hyponatremia or 'water poisoning,' is on the rise due to an increase in heat waves across the US. Research from the NIH suggests that the condition affects anywhere from 3million to 6million Americans every year, or at least one in 100 people. Hyponatremia occurs when drinking too much water within a short time frame overwhelms the body's organs, namely the kidneys. Normally, the kidneys filter out extra water and waste, producing urine. Dr Thunder Jalili, a professor of nutrition and integrative physiology at the University of Utah, told the Wall Street Journal that a person's kidneys can typically filter out one liter of water every hour. 'When you drink more than a liter of water an hour, that's when you run into the risk of potentially diluting your electrolytes,' he said. These include sodium, which is vital for regulating the amount of fluid in the body, but having too little of it causes water to build up around the body's cells. The cells then swell, leading to nausea, vomiting, headaches, confusion, muscle weakness, dizziness, and restlessness. But in more severe cases, such as Mr Putnam's, it can lead to heart attack-like symptoms such as chest pain. Hyponatremia can also be more common in older adults like Mr Putnam. According to the Mayo Clinic, this is because older patients are more likely to take medications or suffer from conditions that lower their sodium levels. Ms Summers loved being on the water. On the last day of their trip, she complained of feeling dehydrated with a headache and lightheadedness Drinking two liters of water per day around eight cups is vital for keeping the body hydrated. But rapidly getting through this amount can be deadly, experts warn. The CDC advises no more than 1.4 litres per hour, around six cups In severe cases of hyponatremia, brain cells swell and lead to pressure inside the skull. Blood flow to the brain then becomes reduced, resulting in seizures, coma, and even death. This was the case for Ashley Summers, a 35-year-old mother-of-two who drank the equivalent of four 16oz (500ml) water bottles in just 20 minutes. Her family said that she was feeling dehydrated but could not drink enough water to quench her thirst. When she returned home from the long fourth of July weekend, she collapsed in her garage from severe brain swelling. Devon Miller, Ms Summers' brother, told local media that when he heard of his sister's condition, he was in disbelief. 'It was a big shock to us all,' he said. 'I was just like, this is a thing?' Treatment for hyponatrema depends on the severity of the condition. For mild cases, doctors may restrict fluids. However, more severe cases may require medications to manage low sodium levels or replacing sodium intravenously. According to the Mayo Clinic, women should drink about 11.5 cups of water per day (2.7 liters), while men should consume 15.5 cups (3.7 liters). However, if you're exercising in the heat, aim for four to eight ounces every 20 minutes, depending on the intensity of the workout. GP industrial action could cost the health service half a billion pounds in just four months, leaked NHS documents have revealed. More than 98 per cent of family doctors in England last week backed the proposed British Medical Association (BMA) disruption. It means BMA GPs can now 'pick and choose' from 10 measures designed to wreak chaos across the health service, including a daily 25 appointment cap per family doctor, which could see the up to a third of appointments slashed. It comes as Wes Streeting today labelled the action 'unnecessary' arguing it was 'punishing patients' and forcing other parts of the NHS to 'pick up the pieces'. The health secretary urged family doctors to back down and instead form a 'serious professional partnership' with the Government. Health secretary Wes Streeting today urged family doctors to back down on the action and instead form a 'serious professional partnership' with the Government Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. The NHS document, seen by the Health Service Journal, suggests if there is a 30 per cent reduction in GP activity between August and November, the cost of work diverted to other services would be 569 million. It is understood that these are worst-case scenario figures and assume that all GP practices across the country will participate in the action. As many as 3million GP appointments a month could disappear as a result of family doctors imposing the appointment cap, according to other estimates by primary care leaders. Campaigners and health experts have also already warned the action could lead to 'disaster' in cancer care and worsen A&E waiting times. NHS England has said the public still must come forward for care as they would normally during GP industrial action. What are the 10 forms of protest backed by the BMA? Limiting daily patients to 25 - around a third fewer than normal Stop engaging with the e-referral and guidance service, which allows one GP to seek advice from another clinician Serve notice on any voluntary services currently undertaken that plug local commissioning gaps Switching off NHS software that allows discounted or free prescriptions for some people Referring patients directly to specialist care rather than following more complex NHS processes Refusing to share patient data unless it is in the best interests of a patient Withdraw permission for data sharing agreements that use data for secondary purposes Freeze sign-up to any new data sharing agreements or local system data sharing platforms Defer making any decisions to accept NHS pilot programmes Switching off GP software that allows coding into the GP clinical record by third-party providers Advertisement If patients have appointments already booked in, they should also still attend unless informed otherwise. The BMA has also insisted they don't want patients to be 'piggy in the middle' of the dispute, insisting patients 'won't come to harm' from any action. Instead, the union said it wanted the impacts of their action to be felt by policymakers and administrators. But they acknowledged, patients seeking care over the daily 25 appointments would be diverted to 'local urgent care settings' such as 111 or walk-in clinics when the total is hit. It comes as Wes Streeting today labelled the action 'unnecessary' arguing it was instead 'punishing patients'. Speaking on a visit to Leeds Cancer Centre he said: 'I understand why GPs chose to ballot in opposition to the previous government, because under the Conservatives general practice was driven into the ground. 'And we ended up in a situation where patients couldn't get a GP appointment, and yet qualified GPs couldn't get a job. That's how absurd things became. 'I think I've shown in just the first four weeks of this Labour Government my determination to work with GPs and with primary care to fix the front door to the NHS, and so as far as I'm concerned this collective action is unnecessary, because we have now a Government that is committed to working with GPs to turn the situation around, to rebuild general practice for the benefit of patients. 'And the risk with this collective action is that it's not the Conservatives that are punished for their failure, it's patients and other parts of the NHS (that) will be picking up the pieces. 'I urge GPs to work with the Government to rebuild general practice.' He added: 'We've already taken immediate action to deal with GP unemployment, responding to the mass petition that was sent in about GP unemployment. 'I'm not pretending that that is the total fix of the problem, but I think it is an indication of serious intent. 'My message to GPs is: I understand you've been stretched to breaking point. 'I want a much better relationship with GPs than the previous Conservative government had. 'And we can only turn around the NHS and make it fit for the future if we work together as a team, which is why I want to see an end to industrial action and actually an end to GPs having simply a contractual relationship with the Government. Your browser does not support iframes. 'I want to have a serious professional partnership, and that's not just with GPs, that's with staff right across the NHS, because we're going to need to work as a team to get our NHS back on its feet and make sure it's fit for the future.' 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. GP surgeries have also faced rising levels of harassment, assaults and verbal abuse targeted at staff in recent months. During the action, practices are still required to be open between 08:00 and 18:30 Monday to Friday. The BMA said it was 'not recommending which actions practices take'. Instead, the union outlined 'it is for each practice to pick and choose as they see fit'. GPs have not staged collective action since 1964 when family doctors handed in undated resignations to Harold Wilson's Labour government. A proportion of family doctors, however, staged industrial action in 2012 in protest against increases in pension contributions and a later retirement age for doctors. Estimates suggest around just a fifth to a third of practices took part in the action. The BMA has been approached for comment. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is under fire for backing the use of puberty blockers for transgender children, even when officials knew they presented life-threatening health risks. Internal FDA emails obtained in a lawsuit show how officials knew the drugs, which delay the onset of puberty, raise the risks of users having seizures, depression, and committing suicide. Even so, FDA team chief Shannon Sullivan wrote in a January 2022 email to colleagues that 'there is definitely a need for these to drugs to be approved for gender transition.' The revelations have drawn fierce criticism from Republicans, including Texas Senator Ted Cruz, who called the 'beyond troubling' and part of a broader effort to promote sex change care. The FDA did not answer DailyMail.com's request for comment. FDA team leader Shannon Sullivan wrote that trans kids should get puberty blockers despite the health risks, documents show The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is charged with protecting public health by regulating and ensuring the safety and efficacy of products Puberty blockers were originally developed to suppress the hormones of minors who started puberty too early. They are nowadays prescribed to a fast-growing number of trans children. Advocates of gender-affirming care, as it is known, say it's life-saving for a suicide-prone group, and that puberty blockers help pre-teens 'pause' their puberty and buy time to weigh life-altering decisions. Critics warn of surging numbers of young people who identify as trans, and say puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones and surgeries are often unnecessary and likely dangerous when counselling gets better results. Poll Should 'gender-affirming care' be banned for children in your state? Yes No Not sure Should 'gender-affirming care' be banned for children in your state? Yes 36875 votes No 1726 votes Not sure 988 votes Now share your opinion The FDA emails were obtained from the FDA by America First Legal, a conservative group, as part of a lawsuit, and were made available online late last month. They show emails between Sullivan and other FDA officials about the safety of puberty blockers in response to a media request. In the emails, Sullivan said the drugs were reviewed among young patients in 2016-17 to determine any links to a range of health problems. This included on trans minors who used them 'off-label' a relatively common practice of using medications for reasons beyond their intended purpose. The blockers did not appear to impact the bone health of the young patients, as had been feared, wrote Sullivan. But they did lead to 'increased risk of depression and suicidality, as well as increased seizure risk,' added the expert from the FDA's endocrinology unit. Even so, Sullivan said there is 'definitely a need for these drugs to be approved for gender transition.' This was because they are 'typically not covered by insurance and are expensive out of pocket,' she wrote. The FDA has approved puberty blockers for children with early-onset puberty, but not for trans youth who seek to delay their physical maturation. Lawmaker Cruz said the emails showcased how President Joe Biden's administration is too supportive of 'radical gender ideology.' Most children who get treated with puberty blockers go on to cross-sex hormones, like this patient at Blue Mountain Clinic in Montana Puberty blocker prescriptions continue to rise for trans youth in the United States Chloe Cole, 19, who transitioned to male at 13 before later regretting her decision at 16, is among a growing number of young people who come to regret their trans treatments and seek to reverse them. She says she regrets taking puberty blockers at the age of 13 years 'These emails strongly suggest that the FDA not only participated in those campaigns but actively knew that advancing them was endangering children,' Cruz told The Daily Signal. Lawyer Ian Prior called the emails 'shocking and unacceptable.' Ian Prior, the AFL lawyer leading the case, called the emails 'shocking and unacceptable.' 'The advocates of these brutal practices on children claim that they are necessary to prevent suicide and depression,' Prior said. 'In reality, the treatments themselves cause the very thing they claim they are trying to prevent.' Republican lawmakers have outlawed puberty blockers and other types of trans care for minors in nearly two dozen states. The row is expected to feature in the election fight between Kamala Harris, the Democratic Vice President who backs trans causes, and former Republican president Donald Trump, who vows to ban gender-affirming care for kids. Norway, Finland, Sweden, Holland, and the UK are among a growing list of European countries that have restricted or wholesale stopped trans interventions on children. In a landmark British report in April, top pediatrician Dr Hilary Cass made more than 30 recommendations to overhaul public health services in a bid to improve care offered to trans youth. Her report took almost four years to produce and found children 'caught in the middle' of a toxic row over treatment have been set on a path to irreversible change. She said evidence for using of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones relied heavily on 'shaky foundations' and associated guidelines were not supported by science. AFL lawyer Prior said the US should mirror its trans-Atlantic allies and outlaw medical 'barbarism.' 'It's time for the federal government to follow the lead of Europe in banning these experiments on children,' he said. The legal action group, which is headed by former Trump administration officials, on Monday made a public records request to see all internal FDA correspondence about the drugs. DfT data shows 8% rise in chargers in Q2 - use our infographic to see your area A third of local authorities have no formalised EV charging infrastructure plans Parts of the North have almost half the number of public chargers in the South There are almost 65,000 public electric vehicle charging points available across the UK but an uneven distribution across the country threatens to restrict uptake in undersupplied regions, new figures show. Some parts of the North of England have almost half the number of chargers per 100,000 people compared to areas in the South. And the North East is the only region that failed to witness a rise in chargepoints in the last quarter, according to the latest update from the Government. *Use our infographic to see how your region fares for public charging point availability Your browser does not support iframes. The latest quarterly report from the DfT shows a sizable North-South divide in available EV public charging points. The rollout much slower in the North of England, with some regions tracking well below target levels A quarterly report from the Department for Transport and charging point platform ZapMap shows a total of 64,632 EV charging devices open to the public as of 1 July. The UK has a target of 300,000 chargepoints to install by 2030. While weve seen an 8 per cent increase in installations in the last three months, with 4,962 new chargepoints added to the network since April 1 2024, the UK is still tracking below target levels with 2,800 devices needed per month to meet the 300,000 promised by the end of the decade. And some regions are being significantly neglected as the data shows that particular parts of the country are being prioritised ahead of others in the EV transition. The UK has a target of 300,000 chargepoints to install by 2030 and latest figures from charging point platform ZapMap records a total of 64,632 EV charging devices open to the public How does each UK country rank for charging rollout? Perhaps surprisingly to some, Scotland is the best country in the UK for charger availability, with an impressively high 103 devices per 100,000 people living there. This puts it above the average provision in the UK, which is 96 per 100,000. England is second with 97 per 100,000, and Wales has a decent device-to-inhabitant ration of 88 per 100,000 people. Northern Ireland though, is alarmingly behind with installations: there are only 32 chargers per 100,000 across the Irish sea. This follows reports at the start of the year that officials from Northern Ireland are concerned about its lack of charging points which is causing NI to fall behind the rest of the UK. The average charging point provision in the UK is 96 per 100,000, but Scotland leads the way when analysed by country with 103 per 100,000. For cities and geographical areas London is miles ahead with 23 England's worrying North-South divide Unsurprisingly, London has the highest availability of EV charging points anywhere across England. Official records show there are 234 chargers per 100,000 population, which is streaks ahead of the rest of the country for infrastructure. To put the capital's availability into context, the South East averages 82 devices per 100,000, with the South West just behind with 80. The West Midlands has a better ration than both with 92 chargers for every 100,000. In comparison, Yorkshire and the Humber has only 56 chargers per 100,000. And the North West doesnt fair much better with 60 chargers per 100,000. However the North East fairs better overall with 72 per 100,000, yet is the only area of the UK to not see an increase in devices in the last quarter. What is causing the public charger divide? Theres a huge disparity between local authorities budgets and planning across England which contributes to the North-South divide. Chargepoint operator Believ surveyed 100 councillors from 100 authorities across England, Wales and Scotland between September and October 2023. Analysing a mix of urban, rural and semi-rural authorities across five local government tiers, it revealed that twice as many councils in the North of England versus the South have significant funding issues. Shockingly, despite 27,000 installations needed each year to hit the 2030 public charging ambition, a third of local authorities have no formalised EV infrastructure plans in place. Chargepoint operator Believ surveyed 100 councillors from 100 authorities across England, Wales and Scotland between September and October 2023 and found a third of local authorities have no formalised EV infrastructure plan One of the issues is a lack of dedicated EV personal and scarce resources: only 18 per cent of local authorities have a dedicated EV infrastructure team, relying on part-time staff only. Some 6 per cent of councils have no-one working on infrastructure rollout This is a bigger problem in the North, with 42 per cent (excluding Wales and Scotland) reporting to Believ that they have no formalised EV infrastructure plan compared to 28 per cent in the South (including London). One of the issues is a lack of dedicated EV personal and scarce resources: only 18 per cent of local authorities have a dedicated EV infrastructure team, relying on part-time staff only. Some 6 per cent of councils have no-one working on infrastructure rollout. This comes despite more government funding, such as Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI), being distributed to increase staffing levels since 2022. The proportion of local authorities with dedicated resources has only risen by 4 per cent - from 14 per cent to the aforementioned 18 per cent, and those without any resource has almost doubled from 3 per cent to 5 per cent. Believs CEO, Guy Bartlett, said: 'There is no doubt local authorities need more support, more resources and more manpower for the EV charging infrastructure challenges they face. 'But rather than rely on public sector funding, local authorities can look to the private sector who can plan, install and maintain charge point infrastructure at zero cost to local councils and help them benefit sooner from revenues generated.' Why is Northern Ireland falling behind the rest of the UK? As of the 30th of June 2024, Northern Ireland has 613 charging points according to Zapmap data EV owners in Northern Ireland are being neglected in terms of providing a robust public charging network to help drivers cross the country without fear of not finding a suitable location to charge up. In January, Sue Robinson, chief executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) which represents car and commercial retailers across the UK, told News Letter Belfast: NFDA remains extremely concerned about the state of the electric vehicle public charging network in the province of Northern Ireland.' Not just NI's low percentage of the UKs chargers at the time of speaking this was just 1 per cent worried Robinson, but that an alarming proportion are antiquated and unreliable. As of July 31 2024, Northern Ireland has 622 charging points according to Zapmap data. Since the 1 June report, the UK has seen another 2,147 charging points installed. As of the last day of July, Northern Ireland had 0.93 per cent of the UK's public chargers. This is Money recently reported that several parts of Northern Ireland dominate the top 10 list of locations with the slowest uptake of pure electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids cars in the last five years. Parts of the country with the slowest uptake of plug-in vehicles 1. Orkney Islands - 133% 2. Blackpool - 303% 3. Shetland Islands - 357% 4. Antrim and Newtownabbey - 404% 5. Causeway Coast and Glens - 416% 6. Gloucestershire - 422% 7. Mid and East Antrim - 423% 8. Milton Keynes - 444% 9. Dundee City - 453% 10. Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon - 455% Source: Carwow *Data based on increase in electric vehicle (EV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) registrations Electric future: The ZEV mandate will force car makers to sell an increasing volume of EVs between now and 2035 DVLA and DfT figures compared by Carwow showed that areas at the very top of Northern Ireland had particularly low uptake of electric vehicles. Annual ZEV Mandate targets to 2030 2024: 22% (10% for vans) 2025: 28% (16% for vans) 2026: 33% (24% for vans) 2027: 38% (34% for vans) 2028: 52% (46% for vans) 2029: 66% (58% for vans) 2030: 80% (70% for vans) Source: DfT Antrim and Newtownabbey (404 per cent) and Causeway Coast and Glens (416 per cent) - areas with populations of around 150,000 - were the fourth and fifth slowest areas of the UK for uptake. One issue around the uptake of EVs and the rollout of chargepoints in NI arose when the Zero Emissions Mandate (ZEV) was implemented at the start of this year. The ZEV means car makers need to sell an increasing number of electric vehicles (EV) from 2024 until the ban on sales of new petrol and diesel motors in 2035. But the Northern Ireland Assembly wasnt sitting at the time, which meant legislators were unable to push through the mandate legislation. Sue Robinson said: For every day that the ZEV mandate is not implemented in Northern Ireland there is a cause for concern that the region is falling further behind the rest of the UK in its EV transition and risks being a region which attracts older ICE vehicles, thus impacting their own net-zero targets. An American jury handed GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) a boost by deciding its discontinued heartburn drug did not cause a womans cancer. The UK pharmaceutical giant prevailed when it was decided that Zantac was not responsible for an Illinois patients illness. The victory is another shot in the arm for GSK as it presses ahead with a turnaround. Ruling: GSK prevailed when it was decided that its heartburn drug Zantac was not responsible for an Illinois patient's illness Carrie Joiner claimed in a Chicago court that she developed colorectal cancer from a carcinogenic contaminant called NDMA found in Zantac. Matt Britzman, analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, described the victory as an important step for the FTSE 100 drug maker. He added: This is the second case in Illinois tried by jury where theyve sided with GSK and found no evidence supporting a link between Zantac and cancer, and as each of these dominos fall, the chances of GSK settling cheaply in other states rises. GSKs first court victory came in May. But thousands of lawsuits have been filed making similar allegations about Zantac. Other drugmakers involved in lawsuits include Pfizer, Sanofi and Boehringer Ingelheim. Zantac was the worlds best-selling medicine in 1988 and one of the first to top $1billion in annual sales. GSKs predecessor Glaxo Wellcome developed the drug but later sold the brand to other companies. The latest victory will be a reassuring sign for chief executive Emma Walmsley as she pushes ahead with her turnaround strategy at the pharma giant. Last week, the firm posted a second quarter sales increase of 8 per cent to 15.25billion, helped by cancer and HIV treatments, while profits climbed 18 per cent to 2.5billion. In 2024 Walmsley offloaded the consumer healthcare division Haleon as she refocused on vaccines and infectious diseases. The shift came after GSK fell behind AstraZeneca and Pfizer to create a Covid vaccination during the pandemic. But last week GSK investors were spooked as the company lowered sales guidance for the vaccines arm. This was another setback for GSK. Nearly 5billion was wiped off the its value in June after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the USs national public health agency, said its blockbuster respiratory vaccine RSV should not be given to under-60s. GSK shares fell 1.7 per cent, or 25.5p, to 1521.5p. UK calls for UN-led probe into B'desh crisis; no mention of asylum to Hasina The UK government called for a United Nations-led probe into the unrest that led to the resignation of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the UK wants to see a "peaceful and democratic future" for the South Asian country as Hasina resigned and fled Bangladesh on Monday. However, there was no mention of the asylum for Hasina, which the former Bangladeshi Prime Minister is seeking. "The last two weeks in Bangladesh have seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life... All sides must work together to restore calm under a transitional government," David Lammy said in a statement on Monday. "The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past few weeks," the UK Foreign Secretary said, adding that his country wants to "see action taken to ensure Bangladesh a peaceful and democratic future." "The UK and Bangladesh have deep people-to-people links and shared Commonwealth values," he added. Notably, India will offer comprehensive logistical support as Hasina pursues asylum in the UK. Her stay in India is approved only temporarily, pending her relocation to the UK. On Monday, Hasina landed at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad, hours after resigning from the post, as thousands of protesters stormed and vandalised 'Ganabhaban' - the official residence of the Prime Minister in Dhaka. It was reported that over 100 people were killed and more than 1,000 injured in the clashes that took place between police and the protesters on Sunday. The student-led non-cooperation movement put immense pressure on Hasina's government over the past few weeks. The students had been protesting against a 30 per cent reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters who wrested independence for Bangladesh from Pakistan in a bloody civil war in 1971 in which, according to Dhaka officials, three million people were killed in the genocide by Pakistani troops and their supporters. Gushing money: Aramco's dividends have been growing at an annual pace of roughly 30% Saudi Aramco confirmed it will pay more than $124billion in dividends this year as the oil giant warned the market was underestimating the demand for oil. Amin Nasser, chief executive of the worlds largest oil company, said: We continue to be surprised on the upside in terms of demand. Its robust. We see it from all markets in spite of whats happening in the energy transition. Aramcos dividends have been growing at an annual pace of roughly 30 per cent, putting it on track for a record annual payout of $124.2billion. Rival ExxonMobil returned $32.4billion to shareholders in dividends and buybacks for 2023. The payouts are a crucial source of income for the Saudi government which controls more than 81 per cent of the firm as it undertakes an overhaul of its economy. Aramcos financial results showed its net income for the three months to the end of June fell to $29billion, down from $30billion a year earlier. A schizophrenic dad abused his wife and children for years and became even more deranged in the days before he shot them all dead, family say. Brandon Allan Kendrick, 32, faces five counts of capital murder after the mass shooting with a 9mm pistol at his grandfather's property in rural Alabama. His wife Kelse Kendrick, 24, was found dead alongside their kids Kaleb, 6, and Kynli, 2, and their cousins Colton, 8, and Haley Daniels, 6, on July 18. Kendrick suffered from schizophrenia and family explained to DailyMail.com how his mental state worsened in the weeks before the massacre. 'Kelse and her children have been victims of domestic violence for years,' one family member said, claiming he had a history of not taking his medication. Kelce's social media alluded to his downward spiral and in the days leading up to the shooting, Kendrick unnerved barbers and shop workers, and worried his grandfather enough that church brethren prayed for his safety. Brandon Allan Kendrick, 32, shot dead his wife Kelse Kendrick, 24, (left) along with their daughter Kynli and son Kaleb, and the children's two cousins Kynli Kendrick, 2, Kaleb Kendrick, 6, Colton Daniels, 8, and Haley Daniels, 6, were found shot to death in rural Alabama on July 18 He even called 911 on himself the night before, afraid of what he might do, but police left without taking action. Hours later, Kendrick gunned down his family at the garage apartment they lived in on the property in West Blocton, about 40 miles south of Birmingham. The four children were found dead with gunshot wounds to their heads. Haley was still breathing at the scene but did not survive after being rushed to hospital. Kendrick pleaded not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect in Bibb County Courthouse. He will face court again on September 26. The massacre occurred within an hour of them arriving home from a party at family patriarch Bill Morrow's house ahead of what would have been Colton's ninth birthday on July 23. Kendrick was at not at the party, and relatives said his schizophrenic episodes had become so bad over previous two weeks that Kelse's family hadn't seen her in that time. 'He got to a point where he couldn't work full time, so there were financial problems from that, and she was having to take care of the kids and him so she couldn't work either which just made it worse,' said Kelse's uncle Eli Morrow. 'Things were getting very difficult all the way around... she was doing her best to be a supportive wife. 'The one time she gets away after things had been so hard for her, he wanted her back home.' Kendrick's family was trying to help him apply for disability, which would have lessened the financial burden. Kelse was found dead alongside their son Kaleb, six, and Kynli, two, after the mass shooting with a 9m pistol at Kendrick's grandfather's property in rural Alabama Kendrick faces five counts of capital murder after the mass shooting The shooting took place at his pastor grandfather property in rural Alabama (Kaleb pictured with his sister and family dog on his first day of Pre-K) Kendrick has struggled with mental health issues since he was at least nine, and had a history of not taking his medication. 'My last conversation with my daughter was about his medication,' Kelse's stepfather Joey Hammitt said, adding Kendrick was seeing a doctor. The family said Kendrick had exhibited concerning behavior in the days before the massacre, including that very morning when he got his hair cut. 'Brandon Kendrick was just at our hair salon and got his haircut. We have cut his children's hair too,' one worker at a Great Clips barber wrote online. 'He was acting very depressed my coworker asked him about his family, but just shook it off assuming he was going through a rough separation. 'Goes to show you never know what is going on in someone's head.' Kelse's cousin also noticed 'off' behavior from Kendrick when the couple went into the vape shop she worked at the day before the massacre. Kendrick carried out his rampage at the property of his grandfather Allan Kendrick, senior pastor at Oasis of Praise Church in nearby Bessemer. Kendrick's grandfather Allan Kendrick recounted the episode at the end of a lengthy sermon at Oasis of Praise Church in nearby Bessemer, where he is senior pastor, on July 21 Allan claimed his grandson considered his mental state to be such an emergency that the night before he shot his family, he called 911. 'One o'clock on Thursday morning, he's calling 911 asking for help - only to be turned down,' he told the congregation on July 21. Allan said he himself was also so concerned about Kendrick that he spoke to members of his congregation hours before the massacre. 'Our prayer team that night, about an hour before this incident, stood right here and joined hands and prayed for mine and Gay's safety,' he said. Allan did not appear to have shared his concerns with authorities, and did not prevent Kelse and the four children from being around him that night. The pastor also revealed to his congregation that Kendrick was 'physically, sexually, and mentally' abused until his grandparents got custody of him when he was 12. Kendrick playing on a small dirt bike with Kaleb in the yard of the rural property Kynli and Kaleb were killed in the massacre on July 18 There was also a marked change in Kelse's social media activity over the past year, changing from speaking in glowing terms about her husband, to appearing increasingly unhappy. She shared a video on June 26 captioned: 'Manipulation is when they blame you for your reaction to their toxic behavior but never discuss their disrespect that triggered you.' Another video on the same day was labeled: 'If you're upset because you have to let go of someone you love, listen to this.' Two minutes earlier she reposted a video of a woman saying: 'I tell people all the time, when they're like, oh you're so strong. I'm like, but I have to be... I wanna be fragile.' A fourth image read: 'No one talks about the guilt you feel when you finally decide to leave someone you really love because they constantly hurt you and don't want to change.' Another video featured a man detailing 'a man playing the victim in his life will say these things to his wife'. On May 2, Kelse complained she had to defend herself because no one else would. 'I feel like living here they think I'm crazy when I go off but I don't care, gotta get your point across somehow or forever be ran over,' she wrote. Kendrick and Kelse at their wedding on September 15, 2018 Kendrick shot Kelse and the children less than an hour after they returned home from Colton's birthday party about 7pm after he demanded she come home April 20 included a video captioned 'when my husband tells me to drop the attitude that I don't actually have' and on March 5 she shared a long post that began 'This is for anyone who has suffered from an abusive and narcissistic relationship.' Earlier posts last year included a scene from HBO drama The Bear with a character saying 'I feel trapped'. Kelse's 'cry for help' posts were a marked contrast from earlier posts praising Kendrick. 'Happy Birthday to my best friend I love you so much!! Here's to another year,' she wrote last February with a set of happy photos. In September 2022, Kelse celebrated their anniversary with a sweet tribute. 'Happy Anniversary to my person 6 years ago I fell for you and 4 years ago today we said forever and ever throughout everything we have stuck together side by side and 6 hard years and two beautiful babies later here we are with forever and ever to go! I love you so much!' she wrote. On Valentine's Day that year she wrote: 'Thank you for being the man that you are today and an amazing daddy to our babies! I wouldn't trade you for the world and I'm blessed to call you my valentine.' Kendrick's Facebook bio chillingly read: 'Living life & loving my wonderful wife and kids.' Kendrick's Facebook bio chillingly read: 'Living life & loving my wonderful wife and kids.' Allan was watching TV in the main house with his wife Gay Kendrick when he heard what sounded like a gunshot and went to investigate Allan also revealed Kendrick was abused as a child, and had never even been to a restaurant before they took him to one for his 13th birthday. 'All he'd ever known for 12 years was abuse - physical, sexual, mental, drugs. When I got him at 12 years old he weighed 58lbs [and] he was on nine different psychotic medicines,' he said. 'At 18, the system failed him, took him off of disability, took him off medication because we couldn't afford to buy it, because they canceled his Medicaid. 'Gay and I watched him all these years, [we tried] so hard, talked to every agency, talked to everybody, we tried everything, had him institutionalized in hospitals - only to be discharged with no medication, no follow up, no doctor, nothing.' During his sermon, Allan alluded to Kendrick not doing what he was supposed to do to manage his illness. 'You can rebel, you can have a granddaddy that can tell you every day what you need to do, give you scripture every day, pray over you every day, and you can continue to rebel until your life is gone... don't ever tell me God didn't give you a chance,' he said. All five were found dead with gunshot wounds to their heads, other than Haley, who was still breathing and rushed to hospital, but did not survive Kelse's 'cry for help' posts were a marked contrast from earlier posts praising Kendrick. She is pictured with her children Earlier in the sermon Allan described how he wrestled the gun from Kendrick after he threatened him and his wife Gay Kendrick with it minutes after the massacre. '[Gay] was closest to him and she grabbed the gun, it went off - I don't know how it kept from hitting her,' he said. 'I was able to subdue him, and once that happened he didn't know where he was at, he started asking me and Gay "where am I? Where's Kelse? Poppy, why are you angry? What did I do wrong?"' Kaleb was the final victim and shot outside the garage apartment, possibly while running for his life, which is how Allan heard the gunfire. Allan called 911 about 8.18pm, and then got on the phone to Bill. 'Bill, you need to get down here, Brandon has shot Kelse all the kids in the head,' family said Allan told him. Bill and his daughter Jessica, who is Colton and Haley's mother, rushed to the property but found it cordoned off by police when they arrived about 9pm. Haley and Kynli together at a family Fourth of July gathering two weeks before they were killed Colton and Haley were only at the house because their mother was having major surgery the next morning Eli's wife Brittany Morrow explained that the massacre followed a last-minute decision by Kelse to give in to Kendrick's demands one last time. 'All of the children were supposed to spend the night at [Bill's] home,' Brittany told DailyMail.com. 'Brandon repeatedly begged and pleaded with her to come home and she gave in within an hour they were all shot in the head.' Brittany explained that Colton and Haley's mother Jessica Morrow, 35, was having major surgery the next morning, so there was no option but to send them with Kelse. 'We live 45 minutes away. I wish to God they had asked us to take them for the night,' she said. 'What we are struggling with the most, is that it was a last-minute decision to take them over there, it was never in the plan because they knew he had been acting crazy.' Kelse's car was broken down so Jessica dropped all five of them off at home on Green Tree Drive about 7pm. Kynli and Kaleb in Halloween costume in their Alabama town Police swarm the scene late at night on Friday morning Kelse is Eli's niece by his older sister, who has since died, and Bill's grandfather, and the Morrow and Kendrick families have been intertwined for generations. Eli had custody of Colton and Haley from January 2021 until last November, when a judge allowed them to return to Jessica. 'Jessica finally got her kids back, and then this happens,' Brittany said. 'I am devastated and destroyed... Eli and I had full custody of them for almost three years and they were my babies.' Police rushed to the scene and arrested Kendrick after discovering the bodies, Bibb County Sheriff Jody Wade said. 'It's absolutely horrible. It's unimaginable what the family is going through, what the friends of the family are experiencing, what the community is feeling right now,' he said. 'It was just a horrific scene that even seasoned officers told me it is the worst thing they've ever seen. 'As officers are going, they are saying there are more children that have been shot.' Wade said Kendrick was yet to tell police why he did it, but 'I don't know what motive he could give us that would justify what he did anyway'. Kendrick was booked into the Bibb County Jail about 3.30am and denied bail. He is charged with four counts of capital murder of a child under 14, and one count of capital murder in the killing of two or more people in one act. Kelse's uncle Eli Morrow had custody of Colton and Haley (front left and right) from January 2021 until last November, with the help of his wife Brittany (top right) Colton and Haley with their uncle Eli Morrow Oasis of Praise Church held a prayer vigil with more than 300 members the night after the massacre, saying proceeds from the collection plate would go to the families. 'The church has committed to helping the families with expenses. If you would like to be a part of this effort, please give your donation to the church's benevolence fund,' it wrote on its Facebook page. 'All donated money will be directed towards the needs of the families involved.' Eli Morrow also started a GoFundMe page to help pay for the funerals, with his wife explaining the family didn't want the funeral at Allan's church. He closed the page, which raised $31,242, after other donations brought the family's out-of-pocket costs down to about $25,000. 'We appreciate every kind word, financial donation and those who have brought food to keep us going. Thank you all so much for everything that you have done and continue to do,' he wrote on the fundraiser. Days before Josh Shapiro was passed over to become Kamala Harris' running mate an explosive sexual harassment scandal at his office re-emerged, and it could have cost him the job. As Governor of Pennsylvania, Shapiro's office recently settled a sexual harassment case against one of his top aides in a deal that cost taxpayers $295,000. It also involved the alleged victim signing the kind of all-encompassing secrecy deal that was exposed during the #MeToo scandal. Shapiro's handling of the harassment case last year was set to ignite questions over Harris's judgment if she picked him as her potential vice president. It was unclear how important the scandal became during Harris' vetting of possiblel running mates but, in the end, she picked Minnesota governor Tim Walz after Shapiro had been widely viewed as the favorite. U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro during a visit to the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024 Vice President Kamala Harris waves during a campaign rally, July 30, 2024, in Atlanta Shapiro's office paid the money to a female former employee who had made a string of allegations against a man who had been one of his closest political friends for two decades. As part of the agreement the woman, and Shapiro's office, signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). NDAs, which legally require information to be kept confidential, came to the fore during the #MeToo era. Their use in cases involving sexual misconduct in the workplace has since been restricted in nearly 20 states - but not in Pennsylvania. Mike Vereb, 57, was serving as Shapiro's secretary of legislative affairs when he resigned in September. It later emerged that harassment allegations had been made against him six months earlier, but he had remained in his position. A statement from the alleged victim to the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity was obtained by The Philadelphia Inquirer. In it she described how Vereb had allegedly suggested that they should have a sexual relationship. He allegedly told her: 'If you decided you wanted to do that go close the door to this office, tell me to bend you over this conference table, hike up your skirt and that would be our decision to make.' She also accused him of drunkenly telephoning her after a reception at Shapiro's governors mansion. It was alleged that in the call he again suggested they have sex, and told her he knew how to hide from security cameras in tunnels underneath the Pennsylvania Capitol building. The woman said: 'I was uncomfortable with how Mike was acting in the office - his constant sexually charged comments, and how he was addressing work-related issues.' Pennsylvania's Governor Josh Shapiro holds a rally in support of U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris' Democratic presidential election campaign in Ambler, Pennsylvania, U.S. July 29, 2024 After making her complaint the woman left her job in Shapiro's administration. She also made a complaint to the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission. When the settlement was ultimately reached there was no admission of liability by either Vereb or Shapiro's office. Following the official's resignation Shapiro's office publicly defended him. Shapiro's chief of staff Dana Fritz said: 'Mike has spent decades serving our Commonwealth. Mike has been a key member of our team and thanks to his dedicated service, the Governors Office is prepared for the work ahead. We wish Mike all the best and were grateful for his service.' However, a prominent Pennsylvania Democrat accused Shapiro of being involved in a cover-up. Erin McClelland, the Democrat nominee for state treasurer in the state, wrote on X: 'If I were in her (Kamala Harris's) situation, I would think very strongly about the difficulties that some women experience being in a top-level position, and having men around them that have to be satisfied with being second, third or answering to a woman. 'I want a VP pick thats secure enough to be second under a woman, is content to be VP & wont undermine the President to maneuver his own election & doesnt sweep sexual harassment under the rug.' US President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden (L) and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro (R) visit a coffee shop in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on July 7, 2024 In a statement the National Womens Defense League said. 'We deserve leaders who will not brush sexual harassment under the rug, but will put accountability above politics. 'We need leaders who prioritize effective policies, protocols and a culture that prevents sexual harassment and protects survivors. 'The American people deserve to know that, if called to a higher office, Governor Shapiro will do more to ensure the safety and dignity of employees, volunteers and constituents in his office.' The Pennsylvania State capitol building in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania josh Shapiro, governor of Pennsylvania, at The Alan Horwitz "Sixth Man" Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US, on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 In a statement to the Pennsylvania Capital-Star, days before becoming Harris's running mate, Shapiro sought to quell the scandal. His spokesman said Shapiro and his administration 'take every allegation of discrimination and harassment extremely seriously and have robust procedures in place to thoroughly investigate all reports.' He said that, as the state's attorney general, Shapiro had a track record of 'protecting survivors and prosecuting predators' including 'exposing decades of child sexual abuse and cover-ups within the Catholic Church.' Parents of a young teacher found with 20 stab wounds claim police and medical examiners conspired to rule her death a suicide to cover up a botched investigation. Ellen Greenberg, 27, was found dead on the kitchen floor of her apartment in Philadelphia in the middle of a blizzard on January 26, 2011. She had 10 stab wounds to her neck and the back of the head, and 10 to her stomach, abdomen, and chest with a 10-inch knife still plunged into her heart. Her fiance Sam Goldberg told police he broke down the door, which was locked from the inside, found her, and attempted CPR while on the phone with 911. Assistant Philadelphia Medical Examiner Marlon Osbourne initially ruled her death a homicide, but changed it to suicide after a meeting with police and prosecutors. Ellen Greenberg was 27 years old when her fiance Sam Goldberg found her dead in the kitchen of her Philadelphia apartment on January 26, 2011 Greenberg's parents Joshua and Sandee have spent the 13 years since, and hundreds of thousands of dollars, trying to reverse the death certificate change to suicide Greenberg's parents Joshua and Sandee have spent the 13 years since, and hundreds of thousands of dollars, trying to reverse it and last week had a major victory in that effort. They also filed a second lawsuit in October 2022 claiming the coverup amounted to intentional infliction of emotional distress. The couple claimed police committed major blunders in the first days after Greenberg's death that 'embarrassingly botched their investigation'. Instead of continuing with the homicide investigation, they instead conspired to cover it up by having her death ruled a suicide, the lawsuit claimed. New documents filed in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas on Thursday were in response to motions by the defendants to dismiss the case. They accused the defendants of asking the court to 'whitewash their conduct and perpetuate the concealment of their criminal misdeeds without taking responsibility for their abhorrent wrongdoing or the severe harm attributable to their unspeakable criminal actions' by dismissing the case. The alleged cover up was 'orchestrated' by Sam Gulino, Philadelphia's then-Chief Medical Examiner, and police including Sergeant Tim Cooney and Detective John McNamee. Then-assistant ME Marlon Osbourne, who performed the autopsy, and pathologist Lyndsey Emery were 'drawn willingly into the conspiracy', the document claimed. The documents accused them of 'heinous acts' and 'unforgivable misconduct', and claimed the case had cost Greenberg's parents $600,000 and counting. Greenberg's fiance Sam Goldberg told police he broke down the door, which was locked from the inside, found her, and attempted CPR while on the phone with 911 Ellen's parents Sandee and Joshua Greenberg tell DailyMail.com they have 'a mountain of evidence' to prove their daughter was murdered Their lawyer Joseph Podraza wrote in the filing that the cover up spanned years, and was only discovered during depositions for their other lawsuit in 2021. '[Her parents] believed Ellen's manner of death was predicated on a misunderstanding by the Medical Examiner's Office or, at worse, a difference of opinion,' he wrote. The lawsuit explained how police failed to properly secure the crime scene, and did not take Goldberg's clothes or photograph him despite the blood on his hands. They also delegated interviewing him to non-homicide detectives with the assumption her death was a suicide. Then on January 27, police let Goldberg's family into the apartment unsupervised to take property, and had a crime scene cleanup crew sanitize it before they arrived. Osborne did not find the 10 stab wounds in Greenberg's neck and back of her head and realize it was a homicide until later that day, by which time CSU had little to work with. Soon after Osborne called Greenberg's death a homicide, police 'spread misinformation' in the press to 'perpetuate the myth of Ellen's death as a suicide'. The documents claimed this was to 'deflect attention away from PPD's grossly substandard work, which they never disclosed'. Gulino said he and Osborne were then summoned to an 'unusual' meeting with the police and DA's office. '[It's] clear that they were presenting information because they felt that the manner of death was different from what had been ruled,' he said in depositions. 'We're smiling, we're very optimistic... I hope we're making our daughter proud. There's been a lot of frustration, but we haven't given up,' Sandee said Joshua said the family would change a longstanding precedent if it won, and hoped Greenberg's cause of death would at least be changed to 'undetermined' The documents claimed police gave the pair information they knew to be false to pressure Osbourne into changing his homicide determination. 'Gulino supported changing the manner of death from homicide, warning Osbourne that "if it remains homicide, someone could be unduly incarcerated and/or wrongful charges adjudicated against them",' they claimed. The lie, the documents claimed, was police claiming they confirmed a doorman was with Goldberg when he broke the door down - despite him never saying so. This became a pivotal moment in the case and was a key factor in the manner of death being changed to suicide. '[It] was important to find out if it was broken, if anyone was there to see it be broken, or is it just the story we're getting from the decedent's boyfriend that it was broken by him,' Osbourne said in depositions. '[It] doesn't seem like anyone else could have been in the room to inflict those injuries other than Ms Greenberg herself, and that is how I came to the conclusion of suicide.' But the doorman, Phil Hanton, submitted a signed statement saying he wasn't there and never left his post as he was the only one on duty. Cameras in the building also showed Hanton did not go upstairs with Goldberg. Goldberg told police he had gone to the gym downstairs about 4.45pm and couldn't get back inside the apartment when he returned half an hour later Goldberg is now a married father-of-two working as a film and TV producer in Manhattan. He married Caroline Fay Shnay, the daughter of well-off real estate agents, at the Plaza in New York City on January 11, 2014 The documents also claimed Osborne fabricated a story about taking a section of Greenberg's spinal column to renowned neuropathologist Lucy Rorke-Adams. Bizarrely, he claimed he put it in a jar and walked it through heavy snow to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, where Rorke-Adams worked. Osborne claimed she looked at it and could see the spinal cord itself wasn't cut, so Greenberg wasn't paralyzed and could have kept stabbing herself. However, Rorke-Adams never billed for the consultation or wrote a report, and years later said she had no memory of the entire episode. 'Osbourne's claims about Rorke-Adams are phony, as a jury could reasonably conclude,' the documents argued. 'Even Gulino knows this and, at different times over the years, expressed skepticism to others about Osbourne's claims of Rorke-Adams' involvement.' 'Without the lies, Osbourne could not walk back his determination Ellen was murdered based on the overwhelming medical evidence of homicide obtained at her autopsy.' Gulino was so skeptical of Osborne's story that he secretly had Emery examine the section of Greenberg's spinal column kept in storage. Emery told the deposition that the wounds on the spinal column and the dura didn't have any hemorrhaging around them. 'Lack of hemorrhage means no pulse,' she said. 'There is no hemorrhage. There is no tissue injury, which I know, then, by looking at it under the microscope. 'So I have all of this evidence that says there is no - there's no hemorrhage or reaction to any of these changes in the spinal cord.' Podraza replied: 'So what you're saying is, Ellen would have been dead when this was administered?' Emery confirmed, 'Yeah'. Greenberg's body was also covered in 11 bruises on her arm, abdomen, and leg at varying stages of healing, which her father claimed had to be from abuse over a long period of time The documents explained she told Gulino about her findings and told the deposition 'he ordered her not to write a report or otherwise record the findings from her examination'. 'They instead concealed Emery's findings, content with misleading the world and Ellen's family into believing Ellen's death was a suicide,' it claimed. 'Allowing a murderer(s) to remain free, and without a thought about the severe emotional consequences they were inflicting on Josh and Sandee, parents who were and are desperate to know why their only child died so gruesomely.' Gulino claimed he intended to record Emery's findings in a written report shortly after Emery shared them, the documents stated. But he didn't because he was 'specifically instructed by a Philadelphia solicitor not to prepare anything in writing' because the Greenbergs had filed a lawsuit. Gulino also 'does not deny telling the officers that he was inclined to amend Ellen's manner of death to something other than suicide but was instructed not to by a City's Solicitor'. A month after Emery's deposition, she made a written declaration saying she didn't fully grasp the scope of the question and there were three more reasons there could have been no hemorrhaging. Podraza and Greenberg's parents don't buy it, with the documents calling it 'a sham, a fabrication contrary to Emery's sworn testimony'. 'The declaration is merely a poor attempt at subterfuge to cloud Emery's unambiguous May 11 testimony on the 1.1cm wound,' it claimed. A crime scene analyst hired by the family noted that Ellen had been moved. She was found seated on the floor, propped up against kitchen cabinets, yet a streak of coagulated blood ran in a horizontal line from her nose to her ear This graphic shows knife wounds Ellen suffered to her neck and chest, that pierced her brain and severed her spinal cord The documents explained Emery's deposition was the first time the Greenbergs realized there was a cover up, a decade after her death. '[They] learned that no matter how compelling or conclusive their evidence, these officials would never allow Ellen's manner of death to be changed,' it claimed. Joshua vented his frustration at the city sending an army of lawyers to block them at every turn. 'We have had to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars and 13 years trying to get justice for our daughter,' he told DailyMail.com. 'And it could have been handled right away without spending a hell of a lot of money and a lot of time. 'How much is the city spent on this? How much is the city wasted, time wise, where they could be doing more beneficial things to the citizens of Philadelphia and the state of Pennsylvania? 'What they're covering up, I don't know. Are they covering up police inadequacy and mistakes? Are they covering up some other personality or person? 'I don't know, but it's a cover up. There's a mistake somewhere here, a big f**king mistake.' Another graphic show's Ellen's spinal cord had actually been severed and her brain pierced in two forceful stabs to the neck. She could have neither defended nor harmed herself after those blows Greenberg's parents spent years conducting their own investigation with private detectives, several pathologists, and photogrammetry recreating each of the 20 stab wounds. 'This is not something we thought, in a million years, we would ever be doing or would ever happen. We thought there was a very bright future. We were planning for future generations never expecting her life to end like this,' Sandee said. 'It took years for us to piece this together. At the beginning I was sitting up at night looking at reports with a centimeter ruler trying to figure out how that really translated into how shallow or deep the incisions were on my child's body. 'We realized we needed to get experts to help us do this so that's what we did.' DailyMail.com conducted its own investigation in 2020, speaking with the experts the Greenbergs employed along with others - all of whom agreed the case wasn't as open and shut as authorities insisted. Much of the suspicion has fallen on Goldberg, who is now a married father-of-two working as a film and TV producer in Manhattan. He has never spoken publicly about his fiancee's death, and never been outright accused of causing it. 'Police murder investigations usually start with the people who are closer in relation to the victim,' Joshua said. He added that given the number of wounds, there could have been a second attacker with a murder weapon that was never found. Ellen had been stabbed ten times in the back of her neck and head and ten in her stomach, abdomen and chest and a knife was still plunged in her heart Greenberg's body was also covered in 11 bruises on her arm, abdomen, and leg at varying stages of healing, which her father claimed had to be from abuse over a long period of time. 'I think those those injuries are crucial to the whole thing,' he said, adding that covering up the abuse could be a motive for murdering her. Joshua said his daughter's behavior changed and she wanted to quit her job, leave Goldberg and move back home with her parents, and they had agreed to take her in. 'Sandy and I both believe Ellen was gonna go home that day,' he said. 'She had taken off the engagement ring, had packed up her makeup, which was very valuable to her, and she was planning to leave. 'And I think things didn't work out well, and she never made it home.' Police claimed the bruises were likely from playing contact sports, or doing yoga or pilates - none of which Greenberg did. 'The whole thing is baloney,' Joshua said. Greenberg's parents also insisted she was not suicidal, but she was nervous and anxious in the weeks leading up to her death. The door had a swing lock that Greenberg's family said was barely damaged and not in the right way for it being kicked in Sam Goldberg (right) is seen with friends and family in a 2009 Facebook photo posted by his sister Friends told her parents that they too noticed a change, and that increasingly she deferred to Goldberg on decisions she would once have made for herself. Her parents made her a deal that she could come home if she saw a psychiatrist about what was troubling her, and she agreed. 'Ellen's behavior had changed, and the police tried to say that she was crazy and suicidal. Well, she wasn't,' Joshua said. 'I made an agreement because she wanted to come home and I wanted to take care of her, but I didn't want her to lose her job if she didn't have to.' Psychiatrist Ellen Berman saw Greenberg three times, diagnosed her with anxiety, and prescribed her Ambien and Klonopin - but was very clear that she wasn't suicidal. Podraza also said the FBI searched her computer and didn't find any suicide-related searches. A Vietnamese family who have lived in Australia for nearly 10 years are fighting to be allowed to stay in the country after their sponsor made a mistake before 'abandoning them'. Thanh Duc Nguyen, 30, along with his parents and 20-year-old brother, have had their application for permanent residency rejected for a reason that was out of their hands. 'For nearly 10 years we have been waiting and hoping and because of someone else's mistake, we got refused. It is very frustrating,' Duc told Daily Mail Australia. That mistake was that their sponsor employed a worker in 2019 who had an expired visa - which nullified the sponsor's ability to nominate any workers for permanent residency. After appealing the decision, the family were rejected for another reason that was out of their control - the sponsor was no longer seen as financially strong enough. The family, who reside in Bathurst in NSW, now have just one option left - to lodge a ministerial intervention this week - otherwise they risk losing 'everything' they worked hard for over the last decade. Duc said his mother Hue, 54, moved to Australia in January 2015 after being sponsored as the head chef at a Vietnamese restaurant in Bathurst. A few months later he, his dad, Hoa, 60 and brother Justin, 20, joined her. The Nguyen family (pictured, left to right: Duc, Hoa, Hue and Justin) have had their application for permanent residency rejected after their sponsor made a mistake Hue, 54, (pictured serving customers) was sponsored in January 2015 to be the head chef at a Bathurst, NSW Vietnamese restaurant Two years later, Ms Nguyen was eligible to apply for permanent residency for the family and lodged the application in June 2017. Over two years later, in August 2019, the family received notification that their residency was refused. It was at this time the Nguyens found out their sponsor, who owned the restaurant along with other businesses, including a nail salon, had employed a person with an expired visa. In March 2019, the company lost its ability to nominate workers - but the family weren't informed until they received their rejection letter in August of the same year. Adding to the family's frustration was their purchase of the restaurant from their sponsor just a month before their rejection - because they were told they had no choice but to buy it. 'Our sponsor told us around April or May (2019) they intended to close down the restaurant and if we wanted to continue with our visa, we had to buy the business,' Duc said. 'They told us it was a requirement for our visa. If we didn't buy it, they would close it down and we would lose sponsorship. 'At that time we didn't know any different so we did whatever they said. 'We now know they shouldn't have told us that. We didn't understand the law and what to do.' After finding out their application was rejected just a month later, the Nguyens lodged an appeal with the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) in October of the same year. But due to Covid, the process was delayed. After finally being assigned three hearing dates over May and June last year, the family's application was again unsuccessful. This time the family were told the reason was because the same, original sponsor's financial position wasn't strong enough to sponsor Ms Nguyen. The family reached out to the sponsor to try and 'work together' but they then stopped communicating with the family. The family were told by the sponsor the restaurant would close unless they bought it - and the purchase would be the only way they could stay in the country The family have been working mostly seven day weeks to slowly pay off the restaurant - which they did last year (pictured, centre, Justin and Hue with customers) 'They abandoned us last year. They made so many mistakes, I think they wanted to wash their hands of it,' Duc said. 'Our case is based on sponsorship and they don't want to do it anymore.' After months of not hearing anything back from Ms Nguyen's sponsor, the family lodged an appeal to the Federal Court in September 2023 after legal advice. But after being told there is no fixed time for an outcome, the family have discontinued this appeal and will be lodging a Ministerial Intervention with the Immigration Minister Tony Burke later this week. The family, who have worked nearly seven days a week at their Anam Vietnamese Restaurant, finally paid it off last August - but are terrified it will have been all for nothing. 'We will lose everything we have worked hard for over the last 10 years,' Duc said. 'We will be very sad to leave when we have a strong bond to the community and many friends. 'We are very frustrated that we might have to leave our home.' Duc, who came to Australia as a 20-year-old and is managing Anam, is worried that his brother - who was just 10 when the family arrived here - will find it the most difficult if they are forced to return to Vietnam. 'He has no friends in Vietnam. He wouldn't be able to find a job because the schooling is different,' he said. The family were told their sponsor made a mistake by hiring an employee with an expired visa, which meant they were no longer able to nominate workers (pictured second from right, head chef and owner of Anam Vietnamese restaurant Hua Nguyen, 54, with customers and Justin in background) 'He wanted to go to uni here but that has been put on hold because it is very complicated with the visa.' The 30-year-old said he is also worried for the financial future of his mum and dad as pensions 'don't really exist' in Vietnam, where citizens need to have worked for a company for some time in that country to be eligible. 'And if they could get the pension it is very little - $100 a month,' he said. Apart from having strong community ties, Duc said the only Vietnamese restaurant in the area is doing 'really well' and serves a wide range of locals including families and Charles Sturt University students. 'We pay our taxes. Last year we paid an estimated $45,000 in GST alone,' he said. 'We are very grateful to run the restaurant in Bathurst and for all the great support.' The family has contributed to the local Bathurst community and has strong ties and friendships (pictured, Hue with customers) 'But losing our home and business would be losing everything,' Duc said. As evidence of the local community's support for the family, Bathurst Mayor Dr Jess Jennings sent a letter to the immigration minister in early July. The mayor told Daily Mail Australia he organised a mayoral minute to have a support letter written and signed for the Nguyens - the vote was unanimous and every councillor signed it. 'We wanted to express support for the family who are well-established and contribute to the local economy and community,' he said. 'The fact they have 18,000 plus signatures of support demonstrates how much people want them to stay. 'Personally, I have been eating there (at Anam) for the last decade and I didn't realise they were under an immigration cloud. 'I want them to stay in this community where they belong. 'They have also made a unique contribution to the culinary landscape in Bathurst, which adds to the culture of (the city).' The mayor will resend the letter of support from council to the new immigration minister. EXCLUSIVE Brittany Higgins and her husband David Sharaz have broken cover as her defamation trial against her old boss Senator Linda Reynolds got underway. But rather than being in Perth, where the trial is being held, the newlyweds were spotted larking around in Paris, chasing pigeons as they made their way from a train station to the Australian embassy. The couple are not in the French capital to see the Olympics but instead took a three-hour train to the city to sign an affidavit. Ms Higgins, who announced her pregnancy last month, was seen clutching her baby bump as the pair strolled into the Australian embassy. She paired a flowing white-and-black-striped maternity dress with Chanel shoes, while her new husband sported an open-necked navy Ralph Lauren shirt. Ms Higgins and Mr Sharaz posted about their trip into the city on Instagram. 'POV (point of view): when your town's notaire takes a month off and you have to train to the embassy to sign affidavits,' Ms Higgins captioned a video of her husband running to scare a flock of pigeons. 'Who was more scared: you or the pigeons?', Ms Higgins asked. Ms Higgins, who announced her pregnancy last month, was seen clutching her baby bump as the pair strolled into the Australian embassy She paired a flowing white and black striped maternity dress with Chanel shoes, while her new husband sported facial hair and an open-necked navy Ralph Lauren shirt 'Probably me - they are coming back!', replied Mr Sharaz, as he made his way along the pavement. But it wasn't the couple's only foray onto social media on Monday. A post on the former political staffer's Instagram was called out in the WA Supreme Court during Monday afternoon's proceedings. While the court was in session, Ms Higgins posted a screenshot of a book she contributed to, called 'How Many More Women' by Jennifer Robinson and Keina Yoshida. The book is about laws around the world that silence female victims. Ms Higgins' rape story was included in the book, but was redacted in the original version due to forthcoming court proceedings. The couple are not in the French capital to see the Olympics but instead took a three-hour train to the city to sign an affidavit (pictured: walking into the Australian embassy) Ms Higgins and Mr Sharaz posted about their trip into the city on Instagram (pictured) Mr Sharaz said he was scared of pigeons as he minced along the Parisian pavement The book is now being republished with Ms Higgins' story included. She captioned the post: 'Pertinent reading.' Ms Reynolds' lawyer Martin Bennett said Ms Higgins' 'commentary' was 'extraordinarily inappropriate' - and said his client's statement of claim would be amended to include the latest post. Moments before court wrapped for the day, Mr Bennett said: 'While my client was giving evidence, Ms Higgins posted on social media. 'If Ms Higgins thinks she can provide a running commentary on my client, it's extraordinarily inappropriate,' he told the court. 'One would hope someone would advise Ms Higgins to give up commentary.' Ms Higgins' lawyer Rachael Young SC said the post was a repost of a book that was published, rather than 'an express reference to today's proceeding'. Mr Bennett said: 'It's the timing and the connection.' Justice Tottle said he would deal with submissions when the time came. Linda Reynolds' lawyer Martin Bennett said Ms Higgins' 'commentary' was 'extraordinarily inappropriate' - and said his client's statement of claim would be amended to include the latest post Meanwhile, a fundraiser has been set up to help Ms Higgins with 'ongoing medical, counselling and legal costs' - less than two years after she was controversially awarded $2.4million in taxpayer-funded compensation. The campaign, which was set up by sexual assault campaigner Saxon Mullins and will be held in a trust by her Perth lawyers, will not be directly accessible by Ms Higgins or Mr Sharaz. According to the fundraiser, which is called #standwithbrittanyhiggins, the money would be inaccessible to Ms Reynolds if she won her defamation case. The campaign said: 'This fundraiser is to provide additional support for Brittany Higgins ongoing medical, counselling and legal costs. 'The money will be used for Brittany Higgins benefit for ongoing medical and counselling costs, and payment of any outstanding invoices for legal work performed for Ms Higgins.' A fundraiser has been set up to help Ms Higgins with 'ongoing medical, counselling and legal costs' - less than two years after she was controversially awarded $2.4million in taxpayer-funded compensation (pictured) Last week it was revealed that Ms Higgins would have to sell her $600,000 home in France to cover her legal fees during the defamation action. If she loses the case, Ms Higgins would also have to cover Ms Reynolds' legal fees. The cost of the case could run into the millions. In April, Federal Court Justice Lee found, on a balance of probabilities, that Bruce Lehrmann raped Ms Higgins in Parliament House in 2019. The fundraiser read: 'Many hoped the judgement would mark the end of this legal saga, and Brittany would be free to move on and heal in private.' 'However, Brittany is now being sued for defamation by a former boss, over three social media postings made by her in mid-2023.' The campaign also fired a shot at men's rights activist Bettina Arndt, who is holding a conference later in August called Restoring the Presumption of Innocence'. Lehrmann was set to speak at the conference until Justice Lee's ruling in April. 'One of the foreshadowed speeches [at the conference] is titled "The verdict goes to the best actress",' the campaign read. In December 2022, Ms Higgins launched legal action against the Commonwealth over the way her rape claims were handled by her Parliament House bosses in 2019. After legal fees, she walked away with about $1.9million. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz's wife Gwen is a teacher like him. The two met as young high school teachers working out of temporary classrooms in Nebraska. Gwen could hear Tim's loud voice through her classroom wall and she was initially irked by it, according to the Star Tribune. But a relationship blossomed nonetheless. Soon after they met, Gwen and Tim established a summer trip to China for their students. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (left) and his wife Gwen (middle right) have two kids: Hope (middle left), who's now a college graduate and Gus (right), who's currently in high school Gwen Walz (second from right, in white blazer) is a teacher like her husband. The two met when they were both teaching public high school in temporary classrooms in Nebraska and Tim's voice was too loud Gwen Walz (left) and Tim Walz (right) on primary election night in August 2018. Walz won the Minnesota DemocraticFarmerLabor Party primary and went on to win the general election They took students overseas nearly every summer through 2003, according to the Minnesota first lady's office. The couple were married in 1997. Gwen struggled with infertility and was a patient at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota before giving birth to the couple's eldest daughter Hope in January 2001. The first lady of Minnesota used IVF to conceive, something she might bring up on the campaign trail with some conservative-leaning courts trying to curtail this kind of fertility treatment. 'Gwen and I have two beautiful children because of reproductive health care like IVF. This issue is deeply personal to our family and so many others,' the governor wrote in February after the Alabama ruling that said frozen embryos are children. Hope is a recent college graduate and a vegetarian, which she discussed in a recent video that went viral of her father trying to entice her to try a turkey leg at the Minnesota State Fair. The couple also have a son named Gus, who's a current high school student. Gus was behind the Walzes decision to rescue their dog, a lab-mix named Scout. Gwen Walz (left), alongside her husband Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (center) and their daughter Hope (right) President Joe Biden greets Gov. Tim Walz's mother Darlene (left) and his wife Gwen (right) during a visit to Minnesota in May 2022 Gwen said at the press conference unveiling Scout: 'I had not been part of that negotiation.' They also have a rescued cat named Honey who they adopted after their cat Afton wandered off after they moved to Eastcliff, typically the home of the president of the University of Minnesota, but is serving as a temporary residence for the governor while the governor's mansion undergoes renovations. Gwen is a Minnesota native and grew up in the western part of the state alongside three sisters. As first lady she's been a champion for education - including for the incarcerated. She's politically liberal like her husband and backs criminal justice reform initiatives and is an ally to the LGBTQ community, she says her in bio as Minnesota's first lady. Donald Trump travels to Montana on Friday for rally in support of Tim Sheehy Democratic Sen. Jon Tester lied about Joe Biden's ability to do the job of presidentthat is the brutal message of a new attack ad in Montana, a high stakes election contest where both sides know that victory in November could deliver control of the Senate. The 30-second spot, produced by More Jobs, Less Government, a super PAC supporting his Republican opponent Tim Sheehy, goes up on Tuesday. It opens with Democrat Tester's own words. 'Joe Biden, when I've been around him, and that's not every day ... he's absolutely 100 per cent with it,' he says in the ad produced by More Jobs, Less Government, a super PAC supporting his Republican opponent Tim Sheehy. 'That wasn't true, says the narrator. 'Tester lied.' A new ad from supporters of Republican candidate Tim Sheehy highlights Sen. Jon Tester's previous claims that Joe Biden was up to the job of president The angle has become a common line of attack for Democrats after Biden bowed to weeks of pressure and ended his run for reelection last month. Republicans and their supporters have an arsenal drawn from months of quotes from Democratic lawmakers playing down health concerns and insisting that Biden was as fit as someone decades younger. Their claims ring hollow after Biden fell apart during his first televised debate with Donald Trump in July. The ad will run for the remainder of the month in the three key TV markets of Helena, Missoula and Great Falls, as well as online, as part of a seven-figure buy.. 'Jon Tester sold Montanans out by knowingly lying about Joe Biden's mental decline for years,' said Andy Surabian, chief strategist to More Jobs, Less Government. 'While he might be running away from Biden today, he was one of his biggest boosters and defenders from the moment he was elected. 'Tester voted for the Biden-Kamala agenda 95% of the time and would be a vote for liberal Chuck Schumer as Senate Majority Leader.' Tester initially stood by Biden after his disastrous debate performance, but eventually said he should drop out on July 18, three days before the president announced he would stand aside. Less than a year earlier he was rubbishing reports that Biden was not the man he once was. Tim Sheehy, a former Navy SEAL, is the Republican candidate. He has the backing of Donald Trump who is due to campaign with him in Bozeman on Friday evening The 30-second ad goes up on Tuesday and runs for the rest of the month in a battleground state that both sides believe could be crucial to controlling the Senate Tester has held the seat since 2007 but Trump won the state easily in 2016 and 2020 'Biden's fine. He's doing a great job,' he told NBC News, last August, in a clip included in the ad. The ad also accuses him of backing the Biden-Harris administration at every turn. Tester has held the Montana seat since 2007, in a state that heavily backed Trump during the 2020 election. Republicans see the battle as crucial to their hopes of taking control of the Senate. They expect to pick up a seat in West Virginia, where Democrat-turned-independent Joe Manchin is retiring, and need just one more to secure a majority in the upper chamber. The result is that millions of dollars is pouring into the battle between Tester and Sheehy, a former Navy SEAL. Latest campaign finance report show Tester has raised more than $43.7, a record amount, and three times more than he had collected by this stage in his 2018 race. Sheehy has raised $13.7 million since entering the contest a year ago. The importance of the race will be on full display on Friday, when former President Donald Trump holds a rally in support of Sheehy. He won the state by more than 16 points in 2020 and by more than 20 points over Hillary Clinton in 2016. Ousted Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other top officials wanted the cocaine discovered at the White House to be destroyed before further testing could take place, a new report claims. Real Clear Politics reported Monday that multiple heated confrontations and disagreements occurred after the baggie of cocaine was found in a West Wing locker on July 2, 2023. The Secret Service is pushing back on this narrative saying the cocaine investigation was handled properly. 'This is false,' spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi told DailyMail.com to the allegation that Cheatle wanted the cocaine gone. 'The US Secret Service takes its investigative and protective responsibilities very seriously.' 'There are retention policies for criminal investigations and the Secret Service adhered to those requirements during this case,' he added. The bag of cocaine was sent for 'destruction' one day after the Secret Service's 11-day investigation wrapped up without identifying the whodunit. Ousted Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other top officials wanted the cocaine discovered at the White House to be destroyed before further testing could take place, a new report claims Less than a gram of the drug was found in a dime-sized ziplock baggie among storage cubbies located inside the White House's West Executive entrance at the White House on July 2, 2023 Cheatle, who resigned after the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, reportedly knew the cocaine discovery would bring a media firestorm with it due to the widely chronicled drug use of first son Hunter Biden, according to RCP's report. Historically such a discovery wouldn't have come to light as the inner-ring of protective agents assigned to the first family would dispose of 'contraband,' three sources in the Secret Service community told the news outlet. President Joe Biden and his family were at Camp David taking in a pre-Fourth of July holiday during the time of the discovery and so it was a member of the Secret Service's Uniformed Division who found the baggie in locker No. 50. DailyMail.com exclusively reported on the first images of the bag of cocaine in November. So instead of those agents finding the substance, it was discovered my a member of the Secret Service's Uniformed Division. The officer who found the bag flagged it as a potentially hazardous substance - like Anthrax - though in documents obtained by DailyMail.com that individual 'was confident it was drug related.' It's unclear when the alleged pressure campaign to have the cocaine destroyed began. RCP reported that at some point during the investigation vault supervisor Matt White received a call from Cheatle or someone speaking on her behalf asking him to destroy the bag of cocaine because agency leaders wanted to close the case, two sources told the news outlet. Cubbie No. 50 was where less than a gram of cocaine was found at the White House on July 2, which prompted a Hazmat situation and then an 11 day investigation An investigator holds up the test used to determine that the substance was cocaine and not something more dangerous like Anthrax 'Protocol is, whether you act on the [DNA] hit or not, we still have to maintain evidence for a period of up to seven years,' a source said. 'It became a big to-do.' Traditionally a Technical Security Division investigator would have been deployed to the scene to identify the substance, but the D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Service Department was called instead. The White House complex was then evacuated - something that tipped off the press. The bag was initially sent to U.S. Department of Homeland Securitys National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center but then ended up at Quantico, at the FBI's crime lab. Three sources told RCP that while no fingerprints were detected, the FBI lab found some DNA material. Sources said the agency ran the DNA material against national criminal databases and 'got a partial hit,' meaning that the DNA matched a blood relative of the person whose DNA was left on the bag. 'The Congressional oversight committees need to put White under oath and confirm the "partial hit,"' a source told RCP. 'Then the FBI needs to explain who the partial hit was against, then determine what blood family member has ties to the White House or what person matchin the partial hit was present at the White House that weekend.' Over the weekend Donald Trump reignited a feud with the leader of a crucial 2024 swing state that did not end well for Republicans last time. Ahead of an Atlanta rally, Trump reopened old wounds by calling the crime rate in Georgia 'terrible' and the economy 'average,' and saying he doesn't want Gov. Brian Kemp or his wife's endorsement. In a bitter retort Kemp shot back saying 'leave my family out of it.' Trump has long held resentment toward Kemp, the leading Republican in the state, for not more aggressively pursuing unfounded claims of rampant voter fraud in the 2020 election. Now, Republican allies of Trump are hoping the two men can 'reconcile' with less than 100 days to the general election. Georgia Republican Rep. Mike Collins likened the feud to 'Thanksgiving dinner or a family reunion' in a statement to DailyMail.com. Trump went after Kemp's wife and Georgia First Lady Marty Kemp 'Just like Thanksgiving or family reunions in the South, sometimes family members don't always get along, but we still look forward to seeing them at next year's function and we don't love them any less,' he told DailyMail.com in a statement. 'The priority for all Georgia Republicans must absolutely be getting Trump across the finish line in November. Hopefully, at some point, we can get the personalities to reconcile, but in the meantime, Americans are suffering and dying from bad policies, not mean tweets.' Ahead of an Atlanta rally, Trump reopened old wounds by calling the crime rate in Georgia 'terrible' and the economy 'average,' and saying he doesn't want Gov. Brian Kemp or his wife's endorsement. In a bitter retort Kemp shot back 'leave my family out of it' 'Brian Kemp should focus his efforts on fighting Crime, not fighting Unity and the Republican Party! His Crime Rate in Georgia is terrible, his Crime Rate in Atlanta is the worst, and his Economy is average,' Trump wrote ahead of thousands gathering for his speech on Saturday. Trump then went after Kemp's wife and Georgia First Lady Marty Kemp. 'He and his wife didn't think he could win. I said, 'I'm telling you you're going to win.' Then he won, he was happy, and his wife said, 'Thank you Sir, we'll never be able to make it up to you!' Now she says she won't Endorse me, and is going to 'write in Brian Kemp's name.' Well, I don't want her Endorsement, and I don't want his,' Trump wrote. 'My focus is on winning this November and saving our country from Kamala Harris and the Democrats - not engaging in petty personal insults, attacking fellow Republicans, or dwelling on the past,' Kemp fired back on X. 'You should do the same, Mr. President, and leave my family out of it,' he continued. Kelly Loeffler, Georgia's former senator who lost a reelection race in 2021 in what some onlookers blamed on Trump's attacks on the elections in the state, downplayed the dispute between the two men. Kelly Loeffler, Georgia's former senator who lost a reelection race in 2021 in what some onlookers blamed on Trump's attacks on the elections in the state, downplayed the dispute between the two men Over the weekend Donald Trump reignited a feud that did not end well for Republicans last time 'Republicans have always embraced a wide range of views - it's why we had a competitive presidential primary, while Democrats invalidated 14 million votes and anointed Kamala Harris,' she told DailyMail.com in a statement. 'The bottom line is that President Trump and Governor Kemp are working tirelessly to restore America and stop Kamala's broken agenda from causing even more pain. That is my focus, it's their focus, and it's shared by everyone who has been crushed by high prices, crime, the open border, and the many other radical policies of the Biden-Harris Administration.' Loeffler lost her runoff race in 2021, at the height of Trump's attacks on Georgia's election systems that some strategists believe dampened Republican voter turnout. Georgia Republican Rep. Mike Collins likened the feud to ' Thanksgiving dinner or a family reunion' - but expressed a hope that the two men would 'reconcile' Others were more outspoken in their criticism of reigniting old tensions. 'The Trump rally in Atlanta makes it more likely Kamala Harris wins. He's his own worst enemy,' said Georgia-based conservative radio host Erick Erickson. Trump and Kemp have had a sticky relationship for years, but Trump's hostility toward the GOP governor escalated after Trump lost Georgia in 2020. The ex-president reportedly pressured the GOP governor to step in and find the votes to overturn the election results after President Biden won Georgia less than 12,000 votes. He has also expressed anger that Kemp has not helped him when it comes to the Fulton County case against him over election interference in Georgia. Trump wrote on Saturday that Kemp is a 'bad guy' as he faces another tight race in Georgia in November with Vice President Kamala Harris now at the top of the Democratic ticket. Kemp enjoys widespread support in the Georgia GOP. He fended off a Trump-backed effort to oust him from the governor's mansion in 2022 and outperformed Trump's hand-picked Senate candidate, Herschel Walker. Trump again went after Kemp at his rally on Saturday. 'Your Governor, Kemp, and [Secretary of State Brad] Raffensperger, they're doing everything possible to make 2024 difficult for Republicans to win,' he said. 'What are they doing? I don't know. They've got something in mind, you know, they've got a little something in mind. Kemp is very bad for the Republican Party.' Trump again went after Kemp at his rally on Saturday 'Georgia's elections are secure,' Raffensperger wrote in a post Saturday. 'The winner here in November will reflect the will of the people. History has taught us this type of message doesn't sell well here in Georgia, sir.' Kemp encouraged Trump to focus on the future instead of the past. 'My focus is on winning this November and saving our country from Kamala Harris and the Democrats not engaging in petty personal insults, attacking fellow Republicans, or dwelling on the past,' Kemp said. 'You should do the same, Mr. President, and leave my family out of it.' Prez Murmu addresses Fijian Parliament, highlights close ties between two nations President Droupadi Murmu addressed the Fijian Parliament on Tuesday, emphasising the "close ties" and "shared values" between India and Fiji. President Murmu arrived in Suva on the first leg of her three-nation visit, starting in Fiji. Starting her address with "Namaskar. Ni Sa Bula (Fijian greeting that means good evening)," the President said, "It is my honour to meet you all, the elected representatives of Fiji, in this temple of democracy. I bring to you the greetings of 1.4 billion of your brothers and sisters in the largest democracy in the world, India. I thank the honourable Speaker for giving me this opportunity. This is the reflection of the close relations between our two countries." Earlier in the day, Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere conferred the 'Companion of the Order of Fiji', the highest civilian award in the country, upon the Indian President. Murmu expressed her gratitude for the conferment, saying it is a "reflection of the deep ties between the two nations." She also thanked President Katonivere for inviting her on her first visit to Fiji. She highlighted the shared values of democracy, diversity, equality, and commitment to liberty, dignity, and rights that unite India and Fiji. "These shared values are eternal and shall continue to guide us ahead," she said. Stressing the similarity between the two nations and "vibrant democracies" despite the "vast difference" in the size of India and Fiji, the President said, "Almost 10 years ago, speaking in this same hall, Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, underlined some basic values that unite India and Fiji. These include our democracy, the diversity of our societies, our creed that all human beings are equal, and our commitment to the liberty, dignity and rights of every individual. These shared values are eternal and shall continue to guide us ahead." President Murmu praised Fiji's "gentle way of life, the deep-rooted respect for traditions and customs, an open and multicultural environment," noting that the world has much to learn from Fiji. "No wonder Fiji is the place where the rest of the world comes to find its happiness," she remarked. Reflecting on the historical ties, she noted the arrival of "Girmitiya" workers (Indentured labourers) from India over 145 years ago. "Though their early life here was filled with danger and hardship, it is heartening to know how the "Girmitiyas" and their descendants have been embraced by this country. In return, they have contributed immensely to the building of their new homeland through their hard work and diligence," the President added in Hindi, jokingly saying, "I hope you understand Hindi." She also announced new projects, including a Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital in Suva, to meet the needs of the Fijian people and the wider Pacific region. President Murmu reiterated India's commitment, as a "powerful voice of the Global South," to climate justice, promising to push for climate finance and technology for developing countries. "We will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Fiji and other ocean states for climate justice," she added. "As India emerges strongly on the global stage, we stand ready to partner with Fiji to build a stronger, resilient, and more prosperous nation," President Murmu said. Later, President Murmu also addressed the Indian Community Reception. On her arrival, President Murmu was accorded a ceremonial welcome by Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister, Viliame Gavoka, the Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, P.S. Karthikeyan, and other government officials at the airport. This is the first-ever visit by an Indian President to Fiji. She will be in Fiji from August 5-7 at the invitation of President Katonivere. Police time is being wasted by a broken criminal justice system which needlessly drags officers into courts to give evidence, union leaders warn. The Scottish Police Federation (SPF) yesterday said the court process was now so inefficient that it was having an adverse impact on officers and their families. In one shocking example, three officers were summoned to appear in Edinburgh in June to give evidence against someone who had died. Another officer who was on maternity leave with a 12-week-old baby was also called to give evidence in a separate case. It is understood that top brass are also becoming increasingly frustrated at the amount of time officers are being taken away from frontline duties by unnecessary citations. Police officers are needlessly dragged to courts to give evidence the Scottish Police Federation says The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) has now pledged to address the concerns and has launched a review of its processes. SPF chairman David Threadgold told the 1919 Magazine: Through an operational policing lens, the criminal justice system is broken. Police officers understand that attending court is a core part of their business - the consequences for failing can affect their liberty - but their duty to react to the requirements, and the perceived whims of the COPFS, do have an impact, and that is being felt across areas of the service far beyond simply attending court. Incidents highlighted by the federation also include an officer who was called an astonishing 17 times in just one month while the new mum was given a last-minute citation because her colleague was on holiday and had been excused. According to the magazine, one federation representative had said out of the 750 officers in the north area cited for trial since January only 26 have actually given evidence. Lack of communication, cases resolving on the day and being cited last minute because another officer was unavailable were among the biggest issues officers face. They also said excusals from court not being replied to, being cited for multiple trials on the same day in different courts and not being notified if the accused had subsequently died meant valuable time was wasted away from policing. Mr Threadgold said: The COPFS is understaffed, overworked, inefficient in its administration, it communicates badly with partners and makes decisions which adversely impact on police officers and their families without the slightest thought for the consequences. Police Scotland has said detailed work is being carried out to make the system more efficient, including a pilot which has seen a 34 per cent reduction of officer citations. It has also introduced a court scheduling app, which is being tested before a national rollout. Assistant chief constable Wendy Middleton said Police Scotland was committed to working with partners to change policy and practice around how we manage and progress cases through court. She added: Police officers currently spend considerable time on court business and can have shifts, leave and rest days disrupted by requests for attendance. This is not only costly by removing officers from their local policing areas, but it can have an impact on wellbeing too. Chief constable Jo Farrell has previously criticised the Scottish judicial system as very inefficient when compared to the Crown Prosecution Service south of the Border with her force spending 3million on overtime for officers attending court. A COPFS spokesman said police witnesses provide vital evidence during court proceedings and significant effort is made to respect their time. He added: COPFS appreciates that unnecessary citations are a source of personal frustration for officers and a waste of resources. Operating an effective court programme is a challenge for the whole criminal justice system. We work with justice sector partners, including Police Scotland, to arrange court business but there are occasional mistakes in citing witnesses. Processes are being reviewed and developed to improve our communication regarding witness citations and countermands and COPFS is working closely with justice partners to ensure the continued delivery of criminal business through the courts. Russell Findlay, the Scottish Conservatives justice spokesman, said: Police Scotland officers want to serve the public, not have their precious time wasted by a dysfunctional court system that appears to be in the grip of an unshakeable and inefficient culture of churn. SNP ministers have presided over this wasteful and costly shambles for far too long and seem incapable of imposing reform. With hundreds of prosecutors on the Crown Office payroll, surely its reasonable to expect such ludicrous episodes to be rare exceptions rather than regular occurrences. A Maryland man was arrested for setting fire to a Domino's pizza using a container of feces - in what appeared to be a sort of sick revenge - after a string of auto thefts. George Cook, 59, was arrested early Saturday morning for setting fire to the rear of the pizza chain at a strip mall at 400 block of Baltimore Boulevard. A Domino's manager revealed to a deputy fire marshal that Cook became belligerent at the store earlier that week and kicked a trash can over when he was refused free food, Fox News reported. A bystander had told investigators who were looking into the fire that Cook was seen at the Superior Car Care on Manchester Avenue earlier breaking into some vehicles. Investigators linked Cook to other fires in the area that involved placing feces into bags or boxes before setting them ablaze. It is unclear if it was Cook's feces that were ignited. George Cook, 59, was charged with second-degree arson, first- and second-degree malicious burning, and malicious destruction of property over $1,000, and faces charges of rogue and vagabond and theft under $100 by the Westminster Police Department Cook ignited the fire at the rear of the Domino's pizza chain located at 400 block of Baltimore Boulevard with feces he placed in bags and boxes The auto repair shop, Superior Care, located on Manchester Avenue in Westminster, Maryland is where Cook was first discovered early Saturday morning breaking into a string of vehicles When firefighters from Manchester Fire Department arrived at the scene they were able to contain the blaze within minutes. There were no injuries reported. The fire department asked the Office of the State Fire Marshal to investigate. Meanwhile, a trooper assisting investigators caught Cook in the act of breaking into the cars and detained him before he was placed in custody. The trooper detained Cook, who officials learned had been arrested by the Westminster Police for setting other small fires within the city over the last few weeks. Cook was charged with second-degree arson, first- and second-degree malicious burning, and malicious destruction of property over $1,000. The rear of the Domino's where the fire was set The serial arsonist also faces charges of rogue and vagabond and theft under $100 by the Westminster Police Department. He is currently being held without bond at Carroll County Detention Center. A white man at a public event in Nevada told a black man filming him that there was a 'hanging tree' in his backyard. The men were attending the August 2nd 'Hot August Nights' in Virginia City, a day-long tribute to classic cars in the city just outside Reno. The man filming, who later uploaded the video to his TikTok account titled 'unclerickyd1' and was identified by local news reports as Rick Johnson, starts with an agitated voice suggesting they had already begun provoking one another. 'Keep talking. And where's the tree at to hang people at? Where is that? Where is the hanging tree at?' The aggressor, whose identity has yet to be revealed, flips him off with both middle fingers and responds: 'In your backyard'. A white man at a public event in Nevada told a black man filming him that there was a 'hanging tree' in his backyard The black man, who later uploaded the video to his TikTok account titled 'unclerickyd1' and was identified by local news reports as Rick Johnson, starts with an agitated voice suggesting they had already begun provoking one another He then tries to get Johnson to leave, to which Johnson snaps back: 'Make me leave'. The instigator then begins to laugh at him and sits down with another man, saying: 'I don't make trash, I burn it'. A woman then tries to get Johnson to vacate the premises, attempting to get him off the sidewalk. She tries to be nice to Johnson as she shoos him, saying 'Jesus loves you' and that Johnson is 'my brother'. Johnson is not interested, saying back: 'You're steady touching me, ma'am. This is assault'. He then starts talking to another woman - who Johnson suggests is the aggressor's daughter - and explains the full backstory from his perspective, saying the man and his friend 'ganged up' on him. 'Your dad just said there's a hanging tree for n****** like me. What does that mean? And I did not disrespect your dad. I asked him nicely, 'Excuse me sir, are you a registered voter?' He said 'No,' I said, 'Thank you,' then he turned around and said, 'There's a hanging tree down the road for n****** like me.' Johnson then starts to cry, asking: 'Ya'll are going to allow this s*** to happen, like nobody cares?' The white man, whose identity has yet to be revealed, flips him off with both middle fingers and responds that there's a hanging tree 'In your backyard' He later uploaded the video - which has been viewed over 100,000 times on TikTok - with the caption: 'This is what I had to go [through] today!! I've never felt so humiliat[ed] and disrespected in my life.' Later in the clip, the instigator can be heard saying, 'I'm going to be on the 5 o'clock news'. A spokesperson for Hot August Nights said in a social media post that 'the individuals featured in the video' have had their registrations revoked. 'We want to clarify that there were no Hot August Nights representatives, volunteers, or staff present in the video or involved in the situation. The individuals wearing Hot August Nights badges are event participants.' Johnson later posted a response video thanking people for their support over the incident. The aggressor has yet to be identified and it's unclear if he faces any charges related to the incident but the Stoney County Sheriff's Office has stated that it's a 'concerning incident' and under investigation. The Nevada Attorney General's Office has said in a statement that it will provide local authorities with assistance. The prisons watchdog has blasted 'unfathomable' security failings at one of Britain's largest prisons in the wake of a high-profile alleged escape. Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor said security is still a 'significant concern' at Wandsworth jail in south-west London. In the wake of the major new report, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced 100million will be spent on improving the prison over the next five years. The watchdog revealed that warders were unable to account for inmates' whereabouts during the day, months after alleged escape of former British army soldier daniel khalife in September 2023. The chief inspector said: 'Our findings suggest that security remained a significant concern. Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor said security is still a 'significant concern' at Wandsworth jail in south-west London months after the alleged escape of Daniel Khalife The watchdog revealed that warders were unable to account for inmates' whereabouts during the day, while there was also evidence of dirty conditions, including dead rats inside the cells 'We found chaos on the wings, and staff across most units were unable to confirm where all their prisoners were during the working day. 'There was, for example, no reliable roll check that could assure leaders that all prisoners were accounted for. 'Given the recent escape, and the amount of input from the prison service, it was unfathomable that leaders had not focussed their attention on this area.' The report on the 1,500 inmate jail said the Prison Service had invested 900,000 in security measures at Wandsworth since the alleged escape. But it added: 'Despite this, leaders had not got the basics of security right and poorly led staff could not account for the whereabouts of their prisoners during the day. 'During two random roll checks, we were unable to assess how many prisoners were locked up, on the wing, or off the wing in an activity because staff were unable to provide any accurate figures.' Inspectors also found dirty conditions including dead rats in the jail, which was built in 1851. The Justice Secretary said 100million will be 'redirected' to Wandsworth from across the Prison Service over the next five years. Specialist security staff will be drafted into the jail, along with new managers. 'This is the reality of a prison system in crisis. Cells are overcrowded, infrastructure is crumbling and our hard-working prison staff are at risk of violence and harm,' Ms Mahmood said. Daniel Khalife, 22, is set to face trial in October on charges of escaping from Wandsworth prison and leaking sensitive information to Iranian intelligence Khalife is said to have escaped from Wandsworth jail in south London last year 'Our staff deserve better and we are taking immediate action at HMP Wandsworth to do what is necessary to protect the public, lock up dangerous offenders and make prisons safe for the brave staff who work there.' Daniel Khalife, 22, allegedly escaped from Wandsworth prison in September after strapping himself underneath a delivery lorry. He is set to face trial in October on charges of escaping from prison and leaking sensitive information to Iranian intelligence. From next year Aussies will enjoy reduced waiting times and faster security clearance when travelling through US airports. In a diplomatic breakthrough with the US government, Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong announced in Washington that Australia will join the United States' Global Entry program in 2025. This means Aussie travellers can take advantage of fast-tracked security screening, avoid time-consuming border checks and can even keep their shoes on and laptop in their bag. The Global Entry program allows pre-approved, low-risk travellers to speed up their processing times after landing in the US by using automated kiosks. Travellers won't need to be grilled by border officials on arrival. Pre-approved Aussies will have their photo taken in a hassle-free process to verify their Global Entry membership. They'll also enjoy faster security screening for domestic flights. 'Joining the Global Entry program is a mark of the closeness and the strength of the relationship between our two countries,' Senator Wong said. Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong announced Australia will join the United States' Global Entry program in 2025. Senator Wong is pictured with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken From next year Aussies will enjoy reduced waiting times and faster security clearance at US airports 'The foundation of the friendship between Australia and the United States is the friendship between our people. 'This program will deepen these links and make it easier to foster greater commercial ties,' Senator Wong said. About 1.3 million Australians visit the United States each year. The current waiting time for around 99 per cent of PreCheck travellers is under 10 minutes. Entry into the Global Entry program for eligible Australians will be rolled out in two phases. One thousand frequent travellers to the US will be able to apply from January. They must have travelled to the US at least five times in the previous 12 months. That requirement will be lifted when phase two rolls out and an unlimited number of Australian will be able to enrol. The changed entry arrangements will come into effect once legislation has passed through Australia's parliament, and is expected to start later in 2025. The Global Entry program will be open to Australian citizens who meet Australian and US requirements. Applicants will need to undergo a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check from the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission. A preliminary assessment will be made by The Department of Home Affairs, and the final approval will rest with US authorities. It will cost Australians $US100 ($A154) to apply for the program and they will need to pass a background check and have an in-person interview with a US official. Aussie travellers won't need to remove their shoes or take laptops out of their bags at US airports under the United States' Global Entry program The Australian government will also charge a fee for processing background checks. These fees have not been set and will be waived for the 1,000 eligible to join in phase one. Australia first flagged joining the US Global Entry program in 2018, but it was delayed due to the Covid pandemic. Senator Wong blamed the previous government for the delay. 'I understand this was flagged many, many years ago, but didn't come to fruition,' she said. 'It's the previous government, so you'd have to ask them, but I'm just pleased that we've managed to land it.' Australia will join other global entry partners including Argentina, Bahrain, Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Germany, India, Mexico, Netherlands, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan and the UK. Two dolphins have reportedly been found dead on the banks of the Thames in London, after one was seen swimming 'lethargically' up the river last week. The common dolphin was seen multiple times from late morning on Thursday, and was described as appearing to be 'struggling with the tide'. But on Monday a dolphin was pictured dead on the bank of the river near Chelsea Harbour Pier. Another dolphin was found on the riverbank at Greenwich but it is not known when it had died, according to BBC News. It comes after experts last week voiced concerns that dolphin that was spotted swimming in the Thames near Bermondsey had looked 'disoriented and lethargic'. A dolphin was spotted swimming in the Thames near Bermondsey, London last week Two dolphins have now reportedly been found dead on the banks of the Thames. Pictured is a dolphin swimming near London's Putney Bridge on Thursday. It is unclear if this dolphin is among the deceased A Port of London Authority spokesperson said: 'We are aware of reports of two dolphins that sadly died. We are working with the Cetaceans Stranding Investigation Programme and will recover the animals.' The British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), which was tracking the dolphin on Thursday, was contacted for comment. On Friday, Julia Cable, operations director at the BDMLR, said: '(The dolphin) was still in the area throughout the evening but its behaviour wasn't really changing so we didn't continue monitoring it too late. 'It's too far really for a dolphin to be up the river. 'It wasn't really moving very far, it did appear to be struggling with the tide.' Mary Tester, Thames area co-ordinator with the BDMLR, told BBC London there were a 'lot of different theories' on why dolphins were 'coming down the river'. One explanation, she said, was the improved water quality of the Thames over recent years, which had increased the level of fish that dolphins preyed on. Members of the public who spot a dolphin swimming in the Thames, or any inland waterway, have been urged to alert the BDMLR and avoid following it in boats or canoes. Experts last week voiced concerns that the dolphin looked 'disoriented and lethargic' In a video, shared on social media last week, a dolphin can be seen swimming along the river near the Angel Pub in Bermondsey. The dolphin's fin can be seen cutting through the waves of the River Thames before it comes up for air giving passersby a clear view of the animal before it disappears under the water once again. The passerby who filmed the creature on Wednesday evening said: My friend turned to me and said "I can see a fin". 'It was quite exciting - everyone was looking over at the river and everyone was in pure shock.' The marine animal, which has been nicknamed Jo Jo was spotted breaching the water just west of Putney Bridge at around midday on Thursday by a group of rowers. Mike Benson, head of rowing at Barn Elms Boat House, opposite Fulham's Craven Cottage stadium, spied the common dolphin from his office and rushed out on the water to get a closer look. In a video, shared on social media, a dolphin can be seen swimming along the river near the Angel Pub in Bermondsey The dolphin's fin can be seen cutting through the waves of the River Thames before it comes up for air giving passersby a clear view of the animal before it disappears under the water once again The dolphin that has been spotted in west London. Concerns have been mounting that the dolphin looks 'lethargic' The 31-year-old, who lives in Bloomsbury in central London, said last week: 'I could hear some of the kids saying, "What's that?". 'When I went outside I realised it was a dolphin. We were trying to slow everyone down when passing it so it wouldn't become too distressed, but at that point everyone was more interested to see what was going on. 'It isn't every day you see a dolphin in the Thames. 'It would surface every few seconds, but I'm not sure if that's normal because I rarely see dolphins here. 'It went downriver towards Putney for a bit and came back around 4pm. 'We think it must be lost and must be having a horrible time.' Though he frequently sees seals on the river, Mr Benson added that the last time he saw a dolphin back in 2018, the animal didn't survive. 'We quite often get seals up this far,' he said. 'In 2018 another dolphin swam right under our boat, which was amazing. 'But it was found dead a week later so I'm a bit pessimistic about this one's chances.' Whilst it remains unclear if both sightings are of the same dolphin, experts have now voiced concerns that the marine animal spotted in Putney looked 'disoriented and lethargic' Mary Tester, Thames Area Coordinator at the BDMLR in a video posted to X, said: 'Its on its own, which is extremely rare, and it looks extremely disoriented and pretty lethargic' The dolphin was spotted spotted breaching the water just west of Putney Bridge at around midday yesterday by a group of rowers Common dolphins are identified by an hourglass shape along the side of the body and their yellow and grey colouring. They are typically seen in open water in large numbers, are one of the UK's most sociable dolphins and are often seen performing acrobatics - leaping out of the water and breaching at high speeds. Although an offshore species, the mammals will venture into shallower coastal waters to feed; working together as a pod to herd prey into a 'bait-ball'. Steve Price has thrown his support behind the NSW government for forcing workers back into the office, claiming staff who work at home are only 'pretending' to do so. The Project host made the comment on Monday night and questioned why it had taken so long for the state government to put the directive in place. Premier Chris Minns had hours earlier revealed that public servants would be required to return to the office full-time from Tuesday. 'No one should be able to work from home in grimy tracky dacks and put their feet up on the desk and go out the back and feed the dog when they're supposed to be working,' Price said. 'You get to work.' Co-host Georgie Tunny questioned whether flexibility was important for workers, but Price again shut down the idea. 'If I'm your boss, you come to the office,' he said. 'You sit behind the desk and you work, because I've got to keep an eye on you. You pretend to do the same work from home, you're actually down at the shops.' Steve Price has blasted Aussies who choose to work from home, claiming many only 'pretend' to do their jobs The end of working from home was announced in a NSW government-wide memorandum to all departments on Monday. The new rules from the premier's department dictate that public servants will now be expected to work from approved office spaces every day of the working week. Limited flexibility will still be permitted in cases of job-share arrangements or compressed hours, but most workers will return to the office full-time. The memorandum warned that existing work-from-home arrangements, which were introduced in 2019, 'should not be taken for granted or considered unlimited'. 'The more our experience of work is shared, the more united we become. This means being physically present in our organisations,' it read. But just below the border in Victoria, public servants will still be able to continue working from home two days a week despite mounting pressure on the government to follow in NSW's footsteps. Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry CEO Paul Guerra said staff being together in the office resulted in greater productivity, as well as financial benefits for the economy with more workers in the city. 'The signal from NSW is a positive one for business and we encourage the state government to follow,' he told the Herald Sun. 'For our economy to recover and forge ahead, we need to increase collaboration between the public and private sector. We know that is best done in person and we encourage Victorian public servants to follow the lead from NSW.' Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece is also in favour of getting more workers back into the office. NSW public servants have been told by Premier Chris Minns they will need to return to the office for every day of the working week 'At the City of Melbourne, we expect people to work from the office, while also implementing modern flexible arrangements for those who need it,' he said. 'I would strongly encourage both the state and federal governments to adopt this approach.' But the government has said no such policy would be introduced. 'We have no plans to roll back the existing flexible working arrangements,' a Victoria government spokesman said in a statement. 'We know that flexibility in the workplace helps more women stay in work and more women in the workforce is better for everyone. 'Any public servants from NSW who like flexibility in their workplace should consider moving to Victoria.' The Queensland government also confirmed it will not change its current WFH policy, which is at the discretion of each department. A resident has been banned from owning a dog for a decade after 82 pooches were rescued in what a judge described as a 'heart-wrenching' case. The dogs were seized from the home in Perth's east in October 2022 following an investigation by the City of Swan Council. The council received complaints about the number of dogs that were being kept at the property amid concerns for their welfare. The resident fronted Midland Magistrates Court in June on charges of keeping the dogs at the property, the West Australian reported. The offence relates to the registration and keeping of excess dogs under The Planning and Development Act 2005 and The Dog Act 1976. The resident was ordered to pay $95,000 in fines in addition to being prohibited from owning a dog for 10 years. The magistrate said the case was 'heart-wrenching', while the City of Swan Mayor Tanya Richardson said the incident was 'confronting' for council staff. Ms Richardson said she hoped the court's ruling would stop people from committing similar offences. The resident was banned from owning a dog for 10 years and was ordered to pay $95,000 after concerns were raised over the welfare of the pooches (pictured, Wally the kelpie) 'This stands as a deterrent for others, and it also validates the thorough investigation and seizure process undertaken by our staff,' Mayor Richardson said. 'This was a confronting case for our staff and I'm particularly happy to know that 81 of these dogs were able to be rehomed.' The council also imposed $80,000 worth of penalties for keeping the dogs at the property. The dogs that were rescued by the council and RSPCA WA were treated and have since been rehomed as part of the council's animal management facility. Wally the kelpie, who was among the dogs rescued by the RSPCA, needed to have his leg amputated. An RSPCA spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia Wally had 'high medical needs' and received vet treatment before he was adopted in March 2023. RSPCA WA rehomed 7,669 dogs between 2022 to 2023. The latest case comes after the WA government passed The Dog Amendment (Stop Puppy) Farming Act in 2021. The resident fronted Midland Magistrates Court in June (pictured) on charges of keeping over 80 dogs at the property The law aims to better regulate the breeding of dogs in the state and will give local councils more power to deal with irresponsible dog breeders. Mayor Richardson said the council is looking forward to the new laws being implemented. 'If anyone is aware of activity involving dogs which they believe might be unauthorised, we encourage them to contact the City so we can look into it,' she said. The state government also gave IT services company Seisma Group a $9.8million contract to create a registration system for cats and dogs in WA. The new system is expected to be fully set up by 2025. The Queensland Ombudsman will launch an investigation into plans to hand a huge tract of land to an Indigenous group following backlash from locals. The state government is preparing to hand over the 210ha Toobeah Reserve to the Bigambul Native Title Aboriginal Corporation near the NSW border in southern central Queensland. Local publican Michael Offerdahl has described it as a secretive 'Aboriginal land grab' that will hand over 95 per cent of the town, which has around 150 people, and $2million worth of land to the Bigambul people. He filed a complaint with the Ombudsman confirming it will investigate the deal, which has been largely hammered out by Goondiwindi mayor and LNP state president Lawrence Springborg. Mr Offerdahl claims council failed to consult the community before agreeing to the transfer and failed to consider the rights of non-Indigenous residents to use waterways and fish, which he argues are put at risk by native title. The complaint contends the council described the reserve as not being for general camping - something it has been open to since 1906. However, Mr Springborg said claims the locals could be locked out of much of their town was 'completely false'. 'There is not one square metre of people's private freehold land, or land that can be lawfully accessed by the community, that can be impacted by this,' he told the Courier Mail last month. The remote town of Toobeah is southern Queensland (pictured) has become the centre of a controversial debate in the the state over the transfer of land to traditional owners Local business owner Michael Offerdahl (third from right) said he was concerned locals would need to ask permission to go into the reserve and it could set a precedent for other areas 'These (Aboriginal) land transfers have been happening in Queensland since 1991.' Mr Springborg said the council will negotiate with the Bigambul and state government to buy native title-designated land in Toobeah for the town's future expansion. He said the council had no control over the land transfer but he had told the government the process needed to be overhauled to provide better community engagement. Mr Offerdahl told Daily Mail Australia last month that Mr Springborg 'asked me to endorse him for mayor before pulling this s*** on our town'. 'The Bigambul have no claim to this area that is of any greater significance than anyone else in Australia,' Mr Offerdahl said. 'It would be crazy to think the only business in the township does not have an interest in the township.' The Bigambul people said they will preserve a town water easement and rodeo grounds access on the reserve, which it plans to develop as an 'eco-cultural attraction'. They have accused those opposing the transfer of spreading 'mistruths and misinformation' and they are ready to work with the community 'to develop and improve the site for the benefit of all'. Queensland's Aboriginal Land Act allows the state to transfer land held in trust for the traditional owners to local Aboriginal corporations. Though the state government has denied the land transfer is definitely going to happen, it recently revoked Goondiwindi Regional Council's trusteeship of Toobeah Reserve, which it had held since 1906. The 220ha Toobeah Reserve is located directly north of the town and has served as the main recreational hub since its early days Queensland's Resources and Critical Minerals minister Scott Stewart defended the transfer, saying 'there is no cover up'. 'An Aboriginal Land Act land transfer is granted as "inalienable freehold" title which means that the land can't be sold or mortgaged,' he previously told Daily Mail Australia. Instead, the land 'is held in trust for the benefit of the people connected to the land - who will continue to take care of the land'. The minister added that 'It is important to note that the Toobeah Reserve is outside the township. 'No final decision has been made in regard to the Reserve, and I think the fact the Bigambul people are offering to work with the community is a good thing.' Toobeah is one of 14 Queensland towns that have drawn interest from First Nations groups. As Kamala Harris' last minute campaign for the White House gains steam, comments from the vice president have resurfaced showing that she has quite the affinity for Meghan Markle. This comes amid speculation that the Duchess of Sussex will soon endorse Harris for president and join the list of her celebrity backers, including George Clooney, Beyonce, and Kesha. Harris didn't cross paths with Markle during her vice presidency, Newsweek reported, but has previously made two public statements about the royal. In October 2019, while Harris was still campaigning to be the 2020 Democratic nominee for president, she retweeted a video where Markle spoke to a reporter about how she struggled to deal with salacious news coverage of her first pregnancy with her son Archie. 'Any woman, especially when they're pregnant, you're really vulnerable,' Markle said at time. 'Also thank you for asking, because not many people have asked if I'm okay.' Vice President Kamala Harris retweeted two statements from Meghan Markle in the past, though she hasn't crossed paths with the royal during her term as Joe Biden's second-in-command Amid speculation that Markle will publicly throw her support behind Harris for president, a British commentator believes she might use the endorsement to 'springboard' her own political career In her retweet of the clip, Harris wrote: 'This is incredibly important. We must remember that its a sign of strength to show emotion.' 'Meghan, we are with you.' Months later, Harris interacted with a clip of Markle giving a virtual address to the 2020 graduating class of her old high school in Los Angeles. In a portion of her speech, Markle addressed the political climate during that summer, which had been dominated by Black Lives Matter protests over the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and others. She expressed how she had been apprehensive to make her thoughts known, fearing that her statements would get 'picked apart.' That culminated in her saying, 'I realized the only wrong thing to say is to say nothing,' before she listed the names of black people who were killed by police, including Philando Castile, Tamir Rice and Stephon Clark. Harris approved of Markle's message, calling it a 'powerful statement' in her retweet. '"The only wrong thing to say is to say nothing." Thank you, Meghan, for this powerful statement,' then-Senator Kamala Harris wrote on June 5, 2020. This is the first time Harris publicly talked about Markle, where the Duchess speaks out about struggles she had with negative media attention during her pregnancy Harris also retweeted a June 2020 clip of Markle addressing racial violence against black people at the height of the Black Lives Matter protests The racial unrest going on in the country at this time also generated a widespread pressure campaign on Biden to pick a black woman as his running mate, CNN reported. Biden would go on to choose Harris as his vice presidential pick in August 2020 but would later deny he chose her because of the pressure from Democrats. Harris' complimentary statements of Markle are getting new attention as Daily Express royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams predicted Markle will throw her support behind the presumptive Democratic nominee. Not only that, Fitzwilliams believes she could use this endorsement to 'provide a springboard for a political career of her own.' Markle and her husband Prince Harry abandoned their roles in the Royal Family in January 2020 and moved to the US in June of that year. Ever since, they've been getting more and more comfortable wading into US politics, though Markle has long been outspoken about causes supporting women and girls. In 2020, they urged Americans to register to vote and reject misinformation. For the 2024 contest, the pair has already joined a campaign to warn American voters against AI-generated misinformation. Markle has gone so far as to consider running to replace California Senator Dianne Feinstein, who died in September 2023 at the age of 90. San Francisco officers Kenneth Cha, left, and Colin Patino are photographed after their altercation with 42-year-old Sean Moore on Jan. 18, 2017. Cha has filed a lawsuit against former District Attorney Chesa Boudin, who he claimed filed bogus charges against him. Liz Hafalia/The Chronicle A San Francisco police officer previously charged with voluntary manslaughter in a 2017 fatal shooting filed a lawsuit last week claiming former District Attorney Chesa Boudin led a frivolous and improper investigation into the case to further an agenda focused on police accountability. Officer Kenneth Cha shot Sean Moore on the doorstep of Moores home in the Ocean View neighborhood during a tense confrontation on Jan. 6, 2017. Another officer tried to subdue Moore with baton blows, but the officer was knocked to the ground. Moore died in January 2020 from complications related to shooting and other health issues. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A San Francisco police spokesperson said Cha is still employed as an officer. City salary databases show he worked part-time during the fiscal year that ended in June. He currently lives in South Pasadena, according to the lawsuit. Boudins office filed the charges against Cha in November 2021. Boudin said at the time that Cha escalated the situation. But Boudins successor, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, dismissed the charges last year. We do not believe that we can sustain our burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt that Cha did not act in reasonable self-defense, Jenkins said. The shooting was a lawful exercise of Chas right, both as a citizen and a peace officer in an encounter that threatened to result in great bodily injury or death to him and/or his partner, Chas lawsuit states. San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin speaks at a rally in 2022. In a recently filed lawsuit, police officer Kenneth Cha, who was involved in a 2017 fatal shooting, claims Boudin led a frivolous and improper investigation against him to further an agenda focused on police accountability. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle 2022 The lawsuit, filed in San Francisco federal court, alleges Boudins office violated Chas civil rights as a result of a baseless investigation against Cha. The investigation and subsequent prosecution were part of efforts that aimed to force policy changes at SFPD related to officers use of force, the lawsuit states. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Boudin did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The lawsuit references an unpublished report in which prosecutors under former District Attorney George Gascon found there was insufficient evidence to prove that the shooting was unlawful. Gascon, who was about to leave office, didnt sign or publish the report. Instead, he opted to pass the matter along to his successor, Boudin, according to the lawsuit. Jenkins cited the report when she announced that her office moved to dismiss the charges against Cha. The lawsuit claims Boudins office secured an improper search warrant and arrest warrant, both of which left out exculpatory evidence, and presented biased and incomplete information to the grand jury that reviewed the case. The investigation was also mired in a conflict of interest, the lawsuit states, because the supervisor of the unit that led the investigation, Lateef Gray, represented Moore in a lawsuit he filed against the city over the shooting prior to Gray joining the DAs office. Gray did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Moores lawsuit against the city alleged officers used excessive force, among other claims. When he died, his parents took over the lawsuit. They later settled with the city for $3.25 million, although the city did not acknowledge wrongdoing. Advertisement Article continues below this ad For a seafaring nation that once counted itself among the world's great naval powers, the state of Britain's submarine fleet is both an outrage and a humiliation. It could also leave us open to catastrophic acts of sabotage by our enemies, with cables, pipelines and wind farms particularly vulnerable. The global economy could not function without the 800,000 miles of undersea fibre-optic cabling criss-crossing the world's oceans that are responsible for carrying 97 per cent of international communications and $10trillion of financial transfers every day. In a digital age, these cables have never been more essential and, if they were to be disabled, the world would be plunged into a devastating depression. As a report published by the Policy Exchange think-tank put it: 'Short of nuclear or biological warfare, it is difficult to think of a threat that could be more justifiably described as existential than that posed by the catastrophic failure of undersea cable networks as a result of hostile action.' It added: 'In the words of the managing director of one major telecoms firm, 'Cascading failures could immobilise much of the international telecommunications system and internet... The effect on international finance, military logistics, medicine, commerce and agriculture in a global economy would be profound... Electronic funds transfers, credit card transactions and international bank reconciliations would slow...such an event would cause a global depression'.' The Royal Navy's most advanced attack submarine, HMS Astute and is currently at HMNB Clyde HMS Artful, one of the British Royal Navy's Astute Class attack submarines, is currently at HMNB Clyde HMS Audacious has spent the last 15 months in His Majesty's Naval Base in Devonport Such an outcome is all too possible given how vulnerable these cables are. While they are engineered to the 'five nines' standard meaning they are reliable 99.999 per cent of the time they are highly vulnerable to attacks by enemy forces. Typically just over an inch in diameter, they consist of fibre optics strands of glass as thin as a hair in the centre, surrounded by galvanised steel wire armouring and then, on the outside, a plastic coating. Russian submersibles, armed with hydraulic cutters, would make short work of the hosepipe-thin cables. Alternatively, divers or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) with cutters fitted to their hulls could do the job. In shallower waters, more primitive methods could be used. A vessel could deliberately drag an anchor along the seabed to rip the cables apart. Such an attack could be covered up by passing it off as an innocent fishing boat accident. In such a context, having a fully functioning fleet capable of patrolling vast tracts of ocean is a must. Protecting this vast seabed infrastructure is a key role for the Astute class of submarines, which are specifically designed to hunt down enemy vessels. HMS Anson (pictured) has been to sea this year but only to take part in trials and returned in May HMS Ambush (pictured) has not sailed for two years HMS Triumph (pictured) did attempt a mission this year but it turned back at Gibraltar after off-loading its tomahawk missiles After all, Russia which is making increasingly bold incursions into waters around Western nations has one of the largest submarine fleets in the world with an estimated 58 vessels. And the protection of undersea cables is not our submarine fleet's only function, of course. We rely on them for much else besides, including gathering intelligence and taking special forces teams on covert missions. But, at a time when Russia's war against Ukraine threatens to spill over into neighbouring countries, the Middle East is like a tinder box, and a Chinese invasion of Taiwan could be launched at any moment, our Armed Forces are in a parlous state and none more so than our navy. N o political administration emerges well from this hopeless state of affairs, although it is true that the last Conservative government promised a significant increase in defence spending. The new Labour Government has made no such promise it's time it did. Colonel Richard Kemp is a former infantry commanding officer in the Army. Special prosecutors investigating last year's law enforcement raid on a Kansas newspaper office, its owners' home and the home of former city official have announced a bombshell update. Sedgwick County District Attorney Marc Bennett and Riley County Attorney Barry Wilkerson announced in a 124-page report on Monday that former Police Chief Gideon Cody will be charged with interfering with the judicial process, the Kansas City Star reports. The charge - which will be filed in Marion County District Court in the coming days - appears to be centered on text messages between Cody and local business owner Kari Newell in the days following the August 11, 2023 raid But the lengthy report does not fault officers for the death of Marion County Record owner Joan Meyer, 98, who died one day after her house was raided in the investigation. It also clears a Marion County Record reporter and everyone else who looked into Newell's driving record of wrongdoing - as the information that she received a DUI and had her license suspended was available on a public website. Former Marion County Police Chief Gideon Cody will face criminal charges for interfering with the judicial process following a series of raids on a newspaper office and it's owner's home 'It's not surprising that fair-minded law enforcement officials would conclude that journalism is not a crime, but destroying evidence is,' Bernie Rhodes, an attorney for the community newspaper told Fox News after the report was released. 'So I'm pleased that the special prosecutor realized that Gideon Cody is not a fair-minded law enforcement officer and that he should suffer the consequences for his decisions.' Former Marion Vice Mayor Ruth Herbel - who has since filed a lawsuit against several local officials, including Cody, for the raid on her house - said she was also glad to be cleared of any wrongdoing. But, she said she was disappointed Cody is the only one facing a criminal charge. 'I'm sad that more people - more players have not been charged because it went past Cody,' she told the Kansas City Star. 'There were a lot more people involved in this whole process, and it's caused a lot of damage to Marion and to the people who were involved.' Officers raided the Marion County Record office on August 11, 2023 The raids on August 11, 2023 came just days after Newell, a former coffee shop owner, accused Marion County Record reporter Phyllis Zorn illegally accessed her private information to confirm a tip that she had been convicted of a DUI 15 years before. Police officer Zach Hudlin then called the Kansas Department of Revenue about their system, and a representative told him the agency was 'trying to fix' an issue because 'anybody can pull' up information, according to the special prosecutors' report. He then 'reached the erroneous conclusion' that Zorn falsified her identity to access Newell's driving record, it says. It is unclear whether Hudlin reached the conclusion because of confirmation bias, a rushed investigation or a misunderstanding of what the representative was saying, the report notes. The report also says that nobody from the Marion County Police Department interviewed Zorn about how she got the information. Still, then-Police Chief Cody penned court documents saying he had probable cause to believe the newspaper and Herbel violated state laws against identity theft or computer crimes. Officers then raided the Marion County Record offices, as well as the homes of Herbel and newspaper co-owners Joan and Eric Meyer. Video of the police raid on Joan Meyers home would later go viral, showing her yelling at the officers to 'get out' just one day before she would die. They also searched the home of newspaper co-owners Joan and Eric Meyer 'Don't you touch any of that stuff,' the Marion County Record co-owner told cops in the footage as she moved around her home with a walker. 'This is my house. You assh**e!' Announcing Joan's death the following day, the newspaper's website read: 'She had not been able to eat after police showed up at the door of her home. Neither was she able to sleep Friday night. 'She tearfully watched during the raid as police not only carter away her computer...but also dug through her son Eric's personal bank and investment statements.' The woman had been 'in good health' for her age, but died over the weekend, Eric said. He has said that when he woke his mother to offer her breakfast the next day she died mid-sentence. Eric now blames her death on the grief and stress from the raid, and a coroner's report states that Joan died of sudden cardiac arrest. 'I am perturbed I carefully chose that word as all get out about them raiding our office, but what bothers me most is a 98-year-old woman spent her last day on earth feeling under attack by bullies who invaded her house,' he said. The special prosecutor's report also noted that Joan may not have died if the raids had not been carried out - but concluded that officers were not criminally responsible for her death. Joan Meyer, 98, died of a sudden heart attack just one day after the raid at her home In the aftermath, the Marion County Record alleged the police department was trying to retaliate against its investigation into Cody's history. He had left the Kansas City Police Department while under internal review for allegedly making sexist comments to a female officer. Eric said his newspaper was contacted by Cody's former colleagues about the claims but that the six-plus anonymous sources ultimately never went on the record - and reporters could not obtain Cody's personnel file. He said the identity of the sources was on the computer servers, which Cody's team seized. During the raid on the newspaper office, Cody even looked through a reporter's desk and asked: 'What's in this? Hmm, a file on me? Keep a personal file on me, I don't care,' according to the Kansas City Star. But the file was not removed from the newsroom during the raid - and the special prosecutors have concluded there was no evidence to suggest Cody conducted the raid out of retaliation. 'If Chief Cody harbored ill-motived toward the Marion County Record, he managed to keep them hidden in personal communication wit other officers, both verbal and electronic,' the report said. It goes on to note that 'it is not a crime under Kansas law for a law enforcement officer to conduct a poor investigation.' A special prosecutors' report concludes that Police Officer Zach Hudlin 'reached the erroneous conclusion' that a reporter falsified her identity to access a local business woman's driving records But as news of the raids spread nationally - and even internationally - shining a negative light on the Marion County Police Department, Cody tried to defend his actions. He told Marion County Attorney Joel Ensey that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation was '100 percent behind me.' A KBI investigator, however, said Cody 'had to live in fantasy land to get that picture' and went on to describe the officer as 'a rabid squirrel in a cage,' according to the Star. In fact, the Kansas Bureau of Investigations found that there was not enough evidence to have launched the tirade against the local paper - and revoked the police department's warrant. Still, Cody persisted, preparing charging affidavits on Eric Meyer, Zorn and Herbel - accusing them of violating federal law, even though state prosecutors would not have a role in such cases. Those charges were never filed. He then allegedly instructed Newell to delete text messages. Kari Newell - who accused the Marion County Record of getting information illegally about her previous DUI - triggered the police raid Amid the investigation into the raids, Cody was placed on administrative leave and resigned from his position on Oct. 2. He has since been replaced by Hudlin. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation then took over the case in mid-November and handed over its investigation to the special prosecutors. They concluded in their report that there was 'no evidence that Marion law enforcement agents recognized the inadequacy of the investigation or intentionally or knowingly misled either other law enforcement agents of the court.' They also said the warrant for the newspaper was 'insufficient to overcome additional protections afforded to the press by virtue of the Kansas Shield Law,' which grants protections to journalists. It also says that search warrants on newsrooms 'should be sought only in extraordinary circumstances and with extreme caution.' The newspaper is suing city and other officials, claiming officers violated their First and Fourth Amendment rights Meanwhile, the newspaper is suing city and other officials - including Cody, the Marion mayor and county sheriff - alleging that the raid violated their First Amendment right to press protection and their Fourth Amendment right to unlawful search and seizure. They are seeking more than $10million in damages. 'This is the type of stuff that, you know, Vladimir Putin does, that Third World dictators do,' Meyer previously told the AP. 'This is Gestapo tactics from World War II.' Police have been warned of an alleged plan by far-Right yobs to hit dozens of immigration related targets across the country tomorrow night. A list of 39 immigration centres, services and solicitors' firms were posted on social media by a group linked to the disturbances in Southport last week. The group, with 13,000 followers, encouraged supporters to 'mask up' and 'spread this as far and wide as you can'. The anonymous user who posted the addresses said they should be targeted simultaneously on Wednesday. The plot was revealed as far-Right activists and anti-racist protesters came face-to-face in Plymouth as beer bottles, flares and a crutch were thrown through the air. Police officers by smashed windows after trouble flared during an anti-immigration demonstration outside the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham on Sunday A man is handcuffed and led away by a police officer during protests in Plymouth on Monday Police detain a protester as earlier clashes began to turn ugly on Monday Police stand in riot gear next to a mosque in St Luke's Road in Southport last week A fight breaks out between anti-fascists and other people protesting in Blackpool on Saturday A car on fire in Sunderland on Friday. Chaos has engulfed Britain this week leaving cops with broken bones, cars set on fire, shops looted and innocent civilians are targeted on the streets Police in riot gear attempted to push back demonstrators and detained a man on the ground, as protesters launched missiles and fireworks at a counter-demonstration where people held signs stating 'No Place for Hate' and 'Say No to Nazis'. Inspector Ryan Northmore described the disorder as 'sustained violence'. Speaking to Sky News, the bronze commander with Devon and Cornwall Police said: 'This is not a protest any more. In my opinion, this is violence. 'This is sustained violence. Unfortunately, large masonry was thrown at us. Whether it was aimed at us, or others, or opposing groups, we don't know yet. The investigation will identify that.' Sky News reported that three officers were injured. In Burnley, three gravestones in the Muslim section of the town's cemetery were vandalised with grey paint. And a Sky News reporter giving a live report on a developing stand-off between far-Right thugs and masked locals in Birmingham was interrupted by a protester on a motorbike who swore and made rude gestures at the camera. As Becky Johnson as delivered a live report to anchorman Mark Austin the biker rode up to her and shouted: 'Yo, free Palestine, f*** the EDL [English Defence League]'. Men gesture to a camera as they stand on a roundabout amid rumours of a far-right gathering in Birmingham Pubgoers in Birmingham screamed as protesters faced off against a man outside - before he was kicked to the floor Shops in Huddersfield closed early as claims of a planned protest in the town spread on social media Protesters outside a mosque in Southport on Tuesday following a vigil Protesters clash with police in Bristol on Saturday Police officers detain a woman during a protest in Nottingham Market Square on Saturday An anti-immigration protester clashes with anti-racism protesters in Plymouth on Monday The plot to attack targets across the country tomorrow was revealed by Tell MAMA, a charity which monitors anti-Muslim hate. It said it had identified the 'far-Right threats' and alerted 'police and counter-terrorism'. The charity added: 'Tell MAMA has also alerted counter-terror police to various neo-Nazi Telegram channels distributing terrorist materials.' The Telegram group where the list was circulated was named by campaigners from Hope Not Hate as an instigator of the Southport riots. Hope Not Hate say the group was used to post false information about the stabbing spree in Southport and publicised the location of the local mosque. The mosque was subsequently targeted by hundreds of far-Right protesters after the attack on a Taylor Swift-themed dance class, which left three little girls dead. Locations in the list of possible targets include major cities Liverpool, Nottingham, Sheffield, Bristol and Birmingham. Smaller towns and cities such as Bedford, Aldershot, Hastings, Peterborugh, Portsmouth and Northampton were also included. Yesterday, teams of volunteers helped clean-up the streets following riots on Sunday in Rotherham and Tamworth. Four asylum seekers were said to have slept in the woods when rioters attacked the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham where they had been living. PLYMOUTH: A man yells at counter-protesters as riot police separate the groups to avoid conflict Police officers attend to a colleague after a face-off with protesters in Liverpool on August 3 People protest in Liverpool, following the stabbing attacks on Monday in Southport A man throws a brick during a protest in Liverpool on Saturday PLYMOUTH: Police form a barrier separating protesters in the city as tensions simmer PLYMOUTH: Masked protesters gather in the city centre, separated from others by police Young children were also seen looking out of the hotel window as yobs threw missiles at police and entered the building. South Yorkshire Police said 750 far-Right and anti-immigration protesters were involved in the violence, which continued for more than 12 hours, saw 12 police officers injured. Assistant Chief Constable Lindsey Butterfield said officers had 'bricks, fenceposts, branches and other missiles thrown at them.' She said: 'Our police dogs suffered minor injuries after missiles were launched at them, and the horses had bricks, eggs, bottles and beer cans thrown at their heads. They were spat at, and threats made to cut the saddles in an attempt to injure the riders.' She said it was a 'disgusting display of thuggery'. Police arrested six people, five in Rotherham and one in Sheffield, and more arrests were expected. Residents praised police for protecting property and said migrants had been living at the hotel for three years without problems. The family of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange has detailed his first days of freedom living a mostly anonymous life in the Australian bush - raising their two sons, swimming in the ocean and listening to the laughter of kookaburras. But wife Stella Assange and brother Gabriel Shipton warned in a letter to supporters that he won't be making public appearances and is taking a break from activism, after 12 years locked up in a London prison and the city's Ecuadorian embassy. 'It has been more than one month since Julian finally arrived back in Australia,' Ms Assange wrote in a blog post, published on Tuesday. 'He's still adjusting. 'Julian is recuperating and experiencing the wild and breathtaking Australian natural environment,' she said. 'The things that he longed for from his cell in Belmarsh prison that seemed unattainable are now a reality: swimming in the ocean, trekking through the wilderness and travelling around Australia. Ms Assange described how he had been spending time with his two sons, Gabriel and Max and were 'finally' able to be together as a family. Stella Assange said her husband Julian is recovering from the trauma of prison by reconnecting with the Australian bush, wildlife and having ocean swims '(It) brings us overwhelming joy. Time is what has been robbed from us, especially from Julian, and now we are enjoying it as much as we can.' Assange said she and Julian were 'overwhelmed' by the community support which brought about his freedom. However Mr Shipton warned that Mr Assange's incarceration had been traumatic and deeply affecting, and that they and their team would be stepping back from activism and Wikileaks work while he recovers. 'As a family we're also realistic that ahead lies a challenging period of adjustment after what has been a deeply traumatising experience, ' he wrote, adding, 'It might be a while before he feels ready to speak publicly.' Assange was incarcerated in London's HM Belmarsh Prison from April 2019 to to June 2024 while the US tried to extradite him to America to face conspiracy charges over leaked secret military data. Under a plea deal with US prosecutors, he pleaded guilty to an Espionage Act charge of conspiring to obtain and disclose classified U.S. national defence documents, and returned to Australia on June 26. Julian and Stella Assange with their children at a beach last month following his plea deal and flight back to Australia Julian Assange after landing at RAAF air base Fairbairn in Canberra on June 26, hours after pleading guilty to obtaining and publishing US military secrets in a plea deal Before his return, Assange had essentially been confined for 12 years, since he sought asylum in London's Ecuadorian embassy while separately charged with sexual assault in Sweden. Stella Assange asked supporters to send a card or share a message welcoming Julian home via her site. She addressed supporters in her note, saying that while he was still fighting for the freedom or justice of others, 'we are hitting pause ... while we get our bearings. 'We, together, have achieved his freedom, which is the biggest prize. What has been done to Julian affects everyones future, and his freedom has come at a price of great injustice.' Ms Assange has said publicly that Julian would push ahead with attempts to gain a pardon from the US for his conviction for espionage. But she said: 'I am writing to you now because we are not ready to take on this fight yet. 'Julians release has involved major changes and logistical challenges which we are finding our way through. 'And we have yet to make decisions about the medium term and longer term.' But she said: 'For now, stellaassange.com and the Substack will be taking a rest while we plan out the next phase of seeking justice for Julian. 'Stay tuned. With affection and profound appreciation, Stella.' Footage has captured the wild moment a Tennessee postal worker appeared to remove mail from his truck and brazenly toss it in a dumpster. The shocking video, which was uploaded to TikTok on Saturday, appears to show a USPS employee taking bins of mail from his truck and then hurling it into the trash. The concerned resident, who recorded the video from a window in her home, narrated the clip in shock: 'This mailman is dumping people's mail in the dumpster.' With the footage gaining millions of views in just two days, a Nashville postal worker has since been placed in a non-duty status, and the local Office of Inspector General is investigating the incident. A new video captured the wild moment a Tennessee postal worker appeared to remove mail from his truck and brazenly toss it in a dumpster In the video, the person who appears to be a USPS worker is seen retrieving bins full of mail and pouring them into the dumpster. 'He is dumping mail- federal mail- into the dumpster,' the shocked TikToker said, captioning her content: 'Federal crime happening right before my eyes. Afterwards, he went back over to the dumpster and appeared to be rearranging the trash so that the mail would be better concealed. 'Oh my god,' the woman recording the video said in horror. 'People mail their checks and bills.' She went on to explain how the postal worker originally had two bins in the front of the truck, each of which he had dumped out in the dumpster. 'Now he's emptying what's in the back,' she said. At this point, the unknown employee could be seen leaning into the back of the mail truck. Then he remerged from the vehicle with another tray full of mail, moving back and fourth between the two with countless post items. 'Don't tell me this is legal. Please don't tell me this is what you do to get rid of mail,' the TikToker said In the TikTok, the alleged USPS worker can be seen dumping bins full of mail into the dumpster The TikTok captured the moment the man appeared to be emptying out bins full of people's mail Then the alleged postal worker returned to his truck, where he removed more mail to throw out As the alleged postal employee walked from his truck to the dumpster, he peered over his should, apparently worried that he might be spotted. The woman recording the video observed this and narrated: 'He's looking around to make sure people aren't looking.' 'He keeps looking to make sure that nobody's looking,' the TikToker said. She added: 'But I'm looking...I'm looking real good.' In the comments section, countless viewers expressed their horror about what they'd seen. 'People live through the [postal] system. They get their medical stuff through the mail. I can't imagine seeing this,' one commenter remarked. 'Seniors waiting on their mail order prescriptions,' another user wrote with a frowning emoji. An employee has since been placed in a non-duty status, and the local Office of Inspector General is investigating the incident The alleged postal worker dumped out the mail in the front of the van, before retrieving even more mail from the back of the vehicle A former USPS employee commented: 'I worked for USPS. 'They warned me in training that if we were caught doing this we would be in jail.' 'Someone is always watching. Even when we think, they're not,' another person remarked. In the comments section, the original poster also revealed that she had shared the video with her local postmaster. According to the U.S. postal code, a mail worker who deserts their mail 'shall be fined...or imprisoned not more than one year, or both.' In 2020, a New Jersey postal employee similarly dumped mail from his route in different dumpsters, for which he was charged with delay of mail, among other things. As the supposed postal employee walked from his truck to the dumpster, he peered over his should, apparently worried that he might be spotted After the alleged USPS worker dumped out the mail, he leaned into the dumpster and appeared to try to bury the letters under other refuse The charge of mail delay carries with it up to five years in prison, as well as a $250,000 fine. At the end of the TikTok, the woman who filmed the video said: 'I can't believe you. I cannot believe it.' Then she corrected herself. 'I can believe it because there have been times I haven't gotten my mail, and I understand now.' 'He keeps looking to make sure that nobody's looking,' the TikToker who posted the video said In a statement to DailyMail.com, the USPS Office of Inspector General-Mid Atlantic Area Field Office said the incident is under review. 'The local OIG office is aware of the video posted on social media this weekend and is conducting an investigation into this matter. 'The alleged involved Postal employee has been placed in a non-duty status.' A shocking twist has emerged in the case of the man who abused former Australian of the Year Grace Tame when she was a child and later charged with harassing her on social media. Nicolaas Ockert Bester, 72, who pleaded not guilty in March 2023 to three counts of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence, appeared in Hobart Magistrates Court on Monday and was expected to face a two-day hearing. The Mercury reported the court heard Bester was deemed not fit to stand trial after being diagnosed with vascular dementia. Besters lawyer, Todd Kovacic, said his clients condition had been conceded by the defence and prosecution legal teams. Mr Kovacic said in order to work out the next steps in the case both sides requested a two-week adjournment. He said the director of public prosecutions had requested further information about Besters medical condition. Bester will reappear on August 28 for a further mention in his case but will not face a contested hearing. Magistrate Andrew McKee continued Besters bail. On Monday Hobart Magistrates Court heard Nicolaas Ockert Bester, 72, (pictured) was deemed not fit to stand trial after being diagnosed with vascular dementia Bester is alleged to have made public posts on Twitter now known as X in relation to and directed at Ms Tame, 29, (pictured) in April, July and August of 2022 Mondays court hearing was the first time Besters condition had been revealed. The court had previously heard concerns of a medical episode. Bester is alleged to have made public posts on Twitter now known as X in relation to and directed at Ms Tame, 29, in April, July and August of 2022. Besters account @nicobester3 was suspended after Ms Tame reported the allegations in 2022. Besters case has been repeatedly delayed by at least six adjournments to obtain medical reports, with suggestions he might be planning to change his plea. Bester, a former teacher at St Michaels Collegiate School, an Anglican girls school in Hobart, was charged by police in October 2022 over the alleged online harassment. Nicolaas Bester was a teacher at St Michael's Collegiate School, an Anglican girls school in Hobart, when he abused Grace Tame He was convicted and sentenced in 2011 to two years and 10 months in jail for abusing Ms Tame when she was a student at his school. In 2016 Bester returned to jail when he produced child exploitation material by boasting on Facebook his abuse of Ms Tame was 'awesome'. Ms Tame was not in court on Monday, but has been present on other occasions. Ms Tame was the 2021 Australian of the Year and has advocated for abuse survivors through the 'Let Her Speak' campaign. She was instrumental in changing Tasmanian laws for survivors of child sexual abuse. Londoners were amazed to see a large cloud looming over the capital that looked just like Donald Trump. The cloud was just as orange as his face often is and even included the 78-year-old Republican presidential nominee's remarkable quiff in its outline. A photo of the cloud was shared on social media and locals were overjoyed to see Mr Trump's side profile in the sky over London. 'Look at that jawline,' wrote Anna Bethel, who posted the picture on Facebook. Facebook user, Mangminsei Haokip, replied: 'Looks like an 18th-century version of Donald Trump.' And Mark Wurtzler joked: 'Once he wakes up he'll be storming mad!' Londoners were amazed to see a large cloud looming over the capital that looked just like Donald Trump The cloud was just as orange as his face often is and even included the 78-year-old Republican presidential nominee's remarkable quiff in its outline Former US President Donald Trump attends the trial for his civil fraud case in New York on October 17 Jennifer Thomas Bogart commented: 'Nice pompadour.' The former President's hair is so renowned that Vanity Fair headlined an article in 2015: 'An Illustrated History of Donald Trump's Hair.' The piece detailed the changes in Mr Trump's hairstyles from 1976 until he launched his first bid to become president in June 2015. Mr Trump is said in the article to have a 'remarkably tasteful, organic-looking hairstyle' in 1976, 'considering the era and the man'. He then started parting his hair far to the left with 1985 being the last time 'more than three-quarters of an inch of Trump's forehead was exposed to public view'. In 2002, it was noted that the former US president changed his hair colour to a 'Burnt-Cheetos Auburn'. The Vanity Fair article was followed by one by The Gentleman's Journal, who wrote: 'Hideous or handsome? What can the President's bombastic barnet tell us about the man below the mane?' A photo taken of Donald Trump at Trump Towers in 1985 Donald Trump walks to Air Force One prior to departure from Joint Base Andrews in Maryland in February 2018 Donald Trump speaks to the press as he arrives for his civil fraud trial in New York City on October 17 last year But it is not just Mr Trump's hair that has been a topic of conversation but also his application of make-up and fake-tan. Even when he was in court in October last year, the Republican presidential nominee was mocked for his use of the products on social media. An image, taken on October 17, showed Trump sporting a deeply tanned complexion on most of his face but with white spots nearer his hairline. Author Majid M. Padellan shared the photo with the caption 'Think of all the splattered ketchup'. He missed his neck and in front of his [ear],' one X user commented. 'Does he do his own makeup?' Embattled former TV personality Andrew O'Keefe has avoided a criminal conviction after being caught driving with a suspended licence. The former Deal or No Deal host pleaded guilty to a single charge of driving with a suspended licence before Downing Centre Local Court on Tuesday. Police charged the 52-year-old following a routine traffic stop on Victoria Rd in the exclusive Sydney suburb of Bellevue Hill about 1.30pm on June 20. Representing himself in court, O'Keefe told Judge Michael Allen he was on his way to collect his licence when he was stopped by police that afternoon. O'Keefe told the court his licence had been revoked for failing to complete a driving education program which he had done on the day he was stopped. While admitting the offence was 'more minor', Judge Allen told O'Keefe he was 'no stranger to this place in recent times, albeit for more serious offending'. 'It is serious that at the time of this more minor offence you were subject to conditional liberty, and that is a factor I'm obliged to take into account,' he said. Judge Allen did not convict O'Keefe of the offence, and instead sentenced him to a 12-month conditional release order, a form of conditional liberty. Andrew OKeefe pleaded guilty to driving with a suspended licence in June. Picture: NewsWire / John Appleyard Andrew O'Keefe leaves Downing Centre Court after being sentenced to a 12-month Conditional release order after pleading guilty to driving with a suspended licence. Picture: NewsWire / John Appleyard Asked outside of court if he hoped his life was 'up from here', O'Keefe told the media he 'hoped so' before remarking he'd be back in court the following day. It comes as the former Weekend Sunrise host faces charges of driving while suspended and of intimidation following an unrelated incident last month. O'Keefe is yet to enter any pleas but will also reappear before the court on August 28 to learn his fate after appealing a string of DV and drug-related offences. He will face court for on Thursday The alleged killer of Ballarat mum Samantha Murphy is expected to tune into his next court appearance from a prison office. Patrick Orren Stephenson, 22, will front the Ballarat Magistrates' Court on Thursday over the alleged murder of Ms Murphy. Ms Murphy vanished without a trace after she left her home on Eureka Street in Ballarat East, Victoria, on the morning of February 4. Sources have told Daily Mail Australia Stephenson is unlikely to make the trip from the Melbourne Assessment Prison in the heart of Melbourne's CBD to Ballarat for the short administrative hearing. Instead he is scheduled to be beamed into court via video link from the prison, where he is understood to be housed in a highly secure protection unit. While Stephenson's arrest over the alleged murder provided some relief to the Ballarat community, it has failed to provide any answers to where Ms Murphy's body was dumped. Video links had been largely shunned by Victorian lawyers until former Victorian Premier Dan Andrews' six Covid-19 lockdowns forced them into play. In early March, almost five weeks after Ms Murphy's disappearance, police charged Patrick Orren Stephenson (pictured) with her alleged murder While plans to wind them back following the lifting of lockdown restrictions have long been discussed, the legal fraternity has since embraced the concept. High profile criminal lawyer George Balot, of Balot Reilly Criminal Lawyers, told Daily Mail Australia video links were traditionally only used to help reduce the costs of bringing prisoners to court. 'Prior to the Covid pandemic there was a slight shift to audio visual appearances to save substantial costs involved in transporting prisoners to court,' he said. 'Additionally frequent failures by the Office of Corrections to transport prisoners to court culminated in frequent costs orders against them in favour of prisoners.' Mr Balot said in person appearances were often preferred by the the courts, particularly where the liberty of the subject was at stake. 'Technology is unreliable at times, logistical problems frequently arise when lawyers are required to obtain instructions from their clients during the course of the hearing and then all occupants in the court need to vacate the courtroom to obtain those instructions,' he said. 'Additionally links often time out and hearings inevitably need to be adjourned because all too often correctional facilities are unable to facilitate further link time.' Samantha Murphy, 51, vanished without a trace after she left her home in Ballarat East, Victoria, for her morning run on February 4 (pictured) Samantha Murphy is believed to have been murdered while out on a jog Ms Murphy's disappearance sparked a massive community effort over the following days to try and find her. The 51-year old had set out for her morning run at 7am, through the nearby Woowookrung Regional Park - a 14km route she had done countless times before. In early March, almost five weeks after Ms Murphy's disappearance, police charged Stephenson with her alleged murder despite her body never being found. On Sunday, Ms Murphy's family, friends, and the wider Ballarat community marked six months since her disappearance. Many are hoping this week's hearing will begin to answer questions as to why Stephenson allegedly killed her. Although in reality more questions than answers are likely to result from the hearing, which is expected to discuss things such as witness lists and what documentation or exhibits might still be required by Stephenson's defence team. In March, the court heard detectives sought a longer than usual period to compile the brief of evidence against Stephenson, saying there was a 'significant' amount of material. Stephenson had been made to front the court during that hearing and a follow-up hearing a day later. Ms Murphy's husband Mick (left) and daughter Jess (right) faced the media to beg for information in the days after she vanished The case is one of the highest priority criminal investigations for Victoria Police, with the missing persons squad working tirelessly to compile evidence for the expected trial. A breakthrough in the case came after police searched a dam at a property south of Buninyong, approximately 14km from her home, on May 29. Officers located a mud-splattered mobile phone in a wallet at the water's edge, believed to have been found by a police tech detector dog. A breakthrough in the case came after police searched a dam at a property south of Buninyong, approximately 14km from her home, and found Ms Murphy's phone In a statement issued shortly after the mobile phone was found, police said they had located some 'items of interest' during the search for the missing mum. The phone, along with other items found in the search, underwent forensic testing with sources confirming the device belonged to Ms Murphy. Many were hopeful the phone would lead to Ms Murphy's body, however, police have remained tight-lipped on the evidence found on the device. Police launched a series of 'targeted searches' in bushland and on properties across the area, with hopes of locating the missing mum's body or finding crucial evidence to strengthen the case. If a preliminary committal hearing goes ahead as expected, a Supreme Court of Victoria murder trial is unlikely to get underway until mid to late next year at best. The process could be further delayed by fresh evidence being provided by homicide squad detectives, who continue to investigate the case in the hope of finding Ms Murphy's body. Police allege Stephenson 'deliberately attacked' Ms Murphy in Mount Clear, about 7km into her run. Stephenson, who has no connection to the Murphy family, was charged with murdering the mother-of-three on March 7. He is the son of former AFL player Orren Stephenson, who played 15 games for Geelong and Richmond between 2012 and 2014. It is understood Stephenson has reserved his right to silence. Australia's spy boss has raised concerns about the number of young people being recruited by extremists and the rapid rate at which residents are being radicalised. ASIO chief Mike Burgess said it had become a concern for his department after the country's terrorism threat level was raised from possible to probable on Monday. It marked the first time the level had been lifted since the height of threats that were being made by the Islamic State in 2014. Security officials have investigated eight incidents for possible terrorist links in Australia over the last four months. Mr Burgess has warned there is a 50 per cent chance of an attack on Australian soil in the next year. The director-general said the environment today was 'completely different' than when the threat level was raised a decade ago. 'More people are being radicalized more quickly, and more people think violence is permissible from a range of grievances and ideologies, not just what we saw in 2014,' he told ABC's 7.30 program on Monday night. He added that out of the eight incidents of possible terrorism, five of those involved people aged between 14 and 21, and more than half were religiously motivated. The biggest concern was that only two of the incidents involved people known to ASIO or police. Australia's spy boss (pictured, ASIO chief Mike Burgess) has revealed the terrorism threat level was raised as more young people are being radicalised quicker and resorting to violence 'The others across the eight include an equal mix of religiously motivated, nationalist, racist, and, in one case, a mixed ideology that goes to the left and right,' Mr Burgess said. 'All but two were unknown to us and police. 'This is the new thing: people will go to violence with no warning and will not be known to us, with little or no planning in some of these cases.' While the conflict in the Middle East is understood to have exacerbated concerns by security agencies about politically motivated violence in Australia, it is not the direct cause of the threat level rising. Mr Burgess said youths were 'particularly vulnerable' through social media, which can exacerbate a person feeling isolated. 'The internet is a great thing, but it allows individuals to latch onto something and get there in a matter of days, not months or years,' he said. 'That's particularly concerning.' The ASIO chief said it was important parents knew what their children were up to when it came to their online activity. He said during Covid lockdowns, half of his priority counter-terrorism case loads were regarding minors. 'Locked in their bedrooms on their devices, they could fall down a rabbit hole of hate quickly, not moderated by the schoolyard or community groups or the positive benefits of family outings,' he said. 'Covid is, of course, no longer with us, but it is still an issue. It is a concern how social media can grab people quickly. The internet can grab people quickly and hurt young brains which are not fully formed.' Mr Burgess said among the groups considered threats are neo-Nazis. Within those neo-Nazis are 'accelerationists' who Mr Burgess described as those who believe in white supremacy and 'don't like how the world is run today'. The threat level was raised from possible to probable on Monday - marking the first time it has been lifted since the height of threats made by the Islamic State in 2014 (stock image) 'They want a downfall to return things to what they believe is the rightful order,' he said. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the national security committee met on Monday morning to discuss the change in the level of threat. 'Probable does not mean inevitable and it does not mean there is intelligence about an imminent threat or danger,' Mr Albanese told reporters in Canberra. 'But the advice that we've received is that more Australians are embracing a more diverse range of extreme ideologies.' The PM said that it was 'our responsibility to be vigilant' but sought to reassure Australians by reiterating that the same threat level was in place for over eight years before it was lowered in November, 2022. Mr Burgess earlier said politically motivated violence now joins espionage and foreign interference as the principal security concerns. He added anti-authority beliefs were also growing along with a decline in trust in democratic institutions. 'This trend increased during Covid, gained further momentum after the terrorist attacks in Israel and accelerated during Israel's military response,' he said. 'The (Middle East) conflict has fuelled grievances, promoted protest, exacerbated division, undermined social cohesion and elevated intolerance.' Lone actors were also the most likely style of terror attack, often using rudimentary weapons in a crowded or public place. Elizabeth Wilson is an intern on the breaking news team. She is a rising senior at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo majoring in journalism with a minor in political science. She has lived in San Francisco for the past decade and is excited to join the breaking news team. Wilson was most recently a fellow for the CalMatters College Journalism Network, where she covered higher education policy. She previously interned at the San Luis Obispo Tribune. At her campus paper, Wilson is a data and investigations reporter. Her award-winning reporting has focused on student experiences with campus safety. In her free time, she enjoys walking around the city, watching nostalgic TV shows and finding new music. Marine wildlife researchers recently made a heartbreaking discovery when they spotted a humpback whale in the ocean near Washington state. The mammal had a devastating problem -its tail was missing. The dramatic overhead drone video shot on July 23 shows the whale swimming, and for a second, everything looks normal. That is, until the massive sea creature dives under the water, revealing its severed appendage. The iconic flukes on their tails are the main way they propel themselves through the water, prompting major worry among experts. John Calambokidis, a research biologist with Cascadia Research Collective, told the Associated Press that it's unlikely a humpback would survive long without its flukes. When the whale dives, it becomes much more clear that it's missing its flukes, which are crucial for propelling the mammal through the water Jessica Farrer, research director with The Whale Museum on Washington's San Juan Island, was among a team of scientists who responded to the sighting of the whale in late July. The whale was initially spotted in the Salish Sea, the inland waters between Washington and British Columbia. But since then, there hasn't been another sighting, Farrer said. 'Everybody has an emotion when they witness a humpback whale dive, and you see those massive flukes that are over 15 feet across, and here's this whale, it's just lost that. It's like us losing our legs,' Farrer said. Farrer, along with the many experts that have reviewed the photos of the whale, agree that it lost its flukes due to entanglement. The humpback could have gotten stuck in mooring lines, pots or nets, according to NOAA Fisheries. The agency also says entangled marine life could get struck by boats while they're immobile. This aerial photo provided by The Whale Museum was taken near an island off the coast of Washington state on July 23, 2024. It shows a humpback whale that is missing its tail The tailless humpback is seen spouting through its blowhole, the process through which it exhales water vapor 'There are so many entanglement hazards floating around the world's oceans. Old fishing gear that has broken free from fishing vessels or the gear that they leave behind,' Farrer said. 'And these whales have to swim through that and humpback whales are at an increased risk because they have those very long pectoral flippers.' Farrer's main concern for the tailless whale is that it won't be able to swim fast enough to catch up with smaller fish so that it can feed itself. Statistics from NOAA Fisheries show there were 16 confirmed humpback entanglements off the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California last year. The year 2016 was a particularly bad one for humpback entanglements, topping a total of 40. This was likely due to the Dungeness crab fishing season in California that year, which could have meant a lot more fishing gear for whales to try to navigate through, AP reported. California has since changed the way it regulates commercial Dungeness crab fisheries in an attempt to protect animals from entanglement. Justin Viezbicke, a whale entanglement responder with NOAA Fisheries, said there are sightings of whales along the west coast without flukes approximately every year or two. This is how humpback whale's tail usually looks. The flukes can be as wide as 15 feet from tip to tip He added this anecdotal estimate is likely to vastly undercount the true number of whales who have lost their tails thanks to human intervention. Calambokidis also said there are probably more whales without tails than are ever reported. Still, he said humpback whale populations on the west coast are increasing and thriving despite the myriad of hazards. Farrer hopes the shocking images of this severely injured humpback will be a wakeup call and lead to even more stringent protection efforts. 'It's one thing to show pictures of whales that are entangled or to talk about whales that have died from entanglements or see entanglement scars, but this whale swimming in the Salish sea completely without a tail is the poster child for the hazards that they're facing.' The moment embattled former TV personality Andrew O'Keefe realised he was being arrested for a 'violent and degrading' assault has been released by the court, showing the ex-host shouting at police as they handcuff him. The former Deal or No Deal host was arrested at a Sydney apartment following claims he'd assaulted a woman and contravened an AVO days before his arrest in September 2021. He has since been sentenced over the breach and the assault, where he had kicked, pushed and spat on a woman, but is currently appealing his criminal convictions. The arrest footage obtained by Nine News shows O'Keefe answering the door while in the middle of a psychiatrist appointment. A clip of the footage shows police trying to arrest O'Keefe, still inside his apartment, and the former lawyer yelling: 'This is what happens when I don't have my medication.' 'This is a simple request. Why are you being f**king Nazis about it?,' he is heard saying as he's handcuffed. 'Why would I calm down when you're doing this to me?' The footage comes after O'Keefe pleaded guilty to a single charge of driving with a suspended licence before Downing Centre Local Court on Tuesday. Bodycam footage shows the dramatic arrest of Andrew O'Keefe in 2021. Picture: Nine News O'Keefe initially appeared upbeat outside court on Tuesday after recording a small court win. But the troubled ex-TV star cut a forlorn figure after the cameras stopped rolling The traffic offence is completely unrelated to the arrest footage released by the court. Police charged the 52-year-old following a routine traffic stop on Victoria Rd in the exclusive Sydney suburb of Bellevue Hill about 1.30pm on June 20. Representing himself in court, O'Keefe told Judge Michael Allen he was on his way to collect his licence when he was stopped by police that afternoon. O'Keefe told the court his licence had been revoked for failing to complete a driving education program which he had done earlier that same month. While admitting the offence was 'more minor', Judge Allen told O'Keefe he was 'no stranger to this place in recent times, albeit for more serious offending'. 'It is serious that at the time of this more minor offence you were subject to conditional liberty, and that is a factor I'm obliged to take into account,' he said. Andrew O'Keefe was later convicted of assault and breaching an AVO. He is appealing the convictions. Picture: Nine News NSW Police handcuffed the former TV host in the hallway. Picture: Nine News Judge Allen told the court he accepted O'Keefe's explanation as 'consistent with the reality of the situation', and that his driving was not 'untoward'. The justice did not convict O'Keefe of the offence, and instead sentenced him to a 12-month conditional release order, a form of conditional liberty. Asked outside of court if he hoped his life was 'up from here', O'Keefe told the media he 'hoped so' before remarking he'd be back in court the following day. It comes as the former Weekend Sunrise host faces charges of driving while suspended and of intimidation following an unrelated incident last month. O'Keefe is yet to enter any pleas but will also reappear before the court on August 28 to learn his fate after appealing a string of DV and drug-related offences. The former Deal or No deal star (pictured outside court on Tuesday) is currently appealing his criminal convictions The fallen star appeared downcast as he stopped for a rest on a stone bench in a park in Paddington in the city's Eastern Suburbs following Tuesday's hearing. The former Chase Australia host, who was wearing a checked turquoise suit paired with a tie and socks in differing shades of blue, dabbed at his sweaty brow with a handkerchief. The fallen star sipped on a fizzy Lucozade as he stared off into the distance. At one point, he appeared to spit dejectedly into the grass at his feet. It was a far cry from his heights as host of shows like Weekend Sunrise and The Rich List. A respected doctor who was tragically killed in a horrifying crocodile attack is being remembered for his final act of heroism that saved his wife's life. David Hogbin, 40, died after being snatched by a crocodile in the Annan River, south of Cooktown in Far North Queensland, just after 2pm on Saturday. He had been holidaying in the region with his wife, Jane, and their three children. Despite initial reports suggesting that Dr Hogbin had fallen into the water while fishing, his devastated loved ones have now revealed that he was actually walking along a path on a 15metre-high riverbank when a section suddenly gave way beneath him. 'Jane, who was nearby but not walking with Dave at the time, heard the splash and slid down to desperately try and pull him out,' his friend Alex Ward wrote on GoFundMe. 'Due to the steepness and slipperiness of the bank, Jane was able to grab his arm but began slipping into the river herself. 'Dave's final, decisive act was to let go of Jane's arm when he realised she was slipping in, an act that likely saved her life. In a world-shattering instant, Dave was taken by the crocodile.' Mr Ward said initial reports that Dr Hogbin was attacked in front of his children were incorrect, and that none of his three sons saw him fall - a fact that is 'one small consolation' for his loved ones. Mr Ward said his family and friends have been left 'completely broken' by the tragedy but feel 'incredibly lucky' to have had him in their lives. David Hogbin, 40, is pictured with his wife Jane and their three sons on their trip of a lifetime to Far North Queensland He said Dr Hogbin would be remembered for his 'enthusiasm and cheer' and his love of 4WD camping adventures. 'Dave had achieved something that we will all strive to emulate; he realised before it was too late that he had everything he needed in life in his family, friends, and the time they were able to enjoy together,' Mr Ward said. 'It was a mutual love and discovery of 4WDing that brought me so close to Dave, and I'm not sure if I can do it without him (which he would scoff at and tell me to get back out there and continue the adventurous legacy he has created for his boys).' Jane Hogbin said her husband touched so many lives and she wanted to speak out to 'put a face to this tragedy'. 'Someone didn't just get killed by a crocodile, we have lost a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, friend and doctor,' she told News Corp. 'We were just enjoying a standard day of our holiday and everything just changed within 30 seconds. He wasn't doing anything wrong in fact, he was doing everything right, and this still happened. 'Things can change so quickly in an instant despite doing everything right.' Dr Hogbin was a general practitioner who has worked at several medical centres in NSW's Lake Macquarie region. He was employed at Jewells Medical Centre. According to an online profile, his special medical interests included paediatrics and dermatology. Dr Hogbin's loved ones have revealed his final act was to save the life of his wife Jane, who desperately tried to pull him out of the water Dr Hogbin, a doctor in NSW's Lake Macquarie region, had been on a family holiday at the time of the tragedy After completing his degree at University of Notre Dame in 2014, he worked in real estate and nuclear medicine before taking up a residency at John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle. The practice manager of Windale Community Medical Centre, where Dr Hogbin was formerly employed, said the community was shaken by his death. 'We are all still in a lot of shock as we trained him,' she told the Cairns Post. 'I have a lot of staff that are struggling at the moment.' The crocodile was shot and killed by wildlife rangers at 2pm on Monday before the carcass was handed to police and the contents of its stomach examined. Queensland Police released a statement on Tuesday revealing that human remains had been found inside the predator. Disturbing footage has emerged showing people feeding crocodiles upstream from where Dr Hogbin was dragged under by a 'large croc' It comes as disturbing videos emerged on social media showing people throwing fish or meat scraps into the water for awaiting crocodiles upstream from where the father was snatched. 'Is that the big one?' a man was heard asking. 'Yeah. He's pretty big,' another person responded. 'Oh, there's two there!' a woman exclaimed. A child was then heard saying 'attack' just moments before a crocodile surfaced and snapped at the food thrown into the water. In another video, a crocodile was seen swimming up to the edge of the water and eating a large fish on the riverbank. 'What a pig,' the woman said. 'I think he just said "thank you".' It is unknown when the video was taken but it is understood the feeding happened at the Annan River in Cooktown. A Queensland Department of Environment and Science said it was 'highly concerned' by the videos. 'It is illegal to feed crocodiles in Queensland, and anyone with information about the deliberate feeding of crocodiles is encouraged to call 1300 130 372 and report the information. Reports can be made anonymously,' a spokesman said. Dr Hogbin was attacked by a crocodile in front of his wife and children at Annan River, south of Cooktown (pictured, baited croc trap is put into the water) 'Feeding of crocodiles at riverbanks or boat ramps encourages them to hang around, waiting for their next meal. 'This can place future visitors to the area at a much greater risk of attack if they approach or enter the water. 'People should never feed crocodiles or give easy access to food or fish scraps.' The department said crocodiles, which have been around for millions of years, are able to source their own food with their highly developed sense of smell. It added the crocodile responsible for dragging the father underwater was 'believed to have a distinctive marking on its snout'. The spot, where Dr Hogbin was attacked, is a well-known habitat for the reptiles. The brave woman who jumped into Sydney Harbour to rescue a struggling dog said that she wasn't thinking about sharks as her 'instinct' took over. Shannon Clark from Woolloomooloo, who works as the office manager for popular Finger Wharf restaurant China Doll leapt into action after hearing a commotion just before midday on Monday. 'People were saying 'There's a dog in the water! Dog in the water!',' Ms Clark told Daily Mail Australia. After taking a look at what was happening outside, Ms Clark noticed the owner on the other side of the wharf calling the dog. Despite the owner's calls, however, the dog continued to struggle in the water and appeared to be close to drowning. 'I thought, 'the dog is so small'... I think it was a King Charles spaniel but it was like a puppy brand new,' she said. 'It would have been like two or three kilos - adorable. 'And I'm kind of looking at the situation thinking, 'she's (the owner) not doing anything. Nothing's happening'.' Shannon Clark from Woolloomooloo, who works as the office manager for popular Finger Wharf restaurant China Doll leapt into action after hearing a commotion just before midday on Monday Shannon Clark took her shoes and pants off and 'jumped in' when she saw no-one else was going to do anything to help save the dog It was then that Ms Clark decided to leap in and rescue the dog. 'Everyone was just staring at this poor dog going around in circles not knowing what is going on and so I was just like, well, if no-one is going in I am going to. 'I quickly ran over, took off my shoes, took off my pants and jumped in,' she said. By that stage there was quite a big crowd but Ms Clark wasn't daunted. 'I was like, 'I'm an alright swimmer, surely I can do this',' she said. 'I'm a dog owner as well so all I could think was if that was my puppy, oh my God, I would have been there straight after it fell in.' Ms Clark, who is also a professional dancer, attributed her skills to her swimming lessons when she was young. The quick-thinking rescuer said instinct took over when it came to holding the dog in the water to prevent it from drowning. 'I guess it was just sort of an instinct. Obviously I wanted to protect the puppy and get it as safe as I could and that was the best position I felt,' she said. 'Luckily the doggy was small enough I could balance it on my shoulder.' Given the rescue occurred less than 2km from where ex-Navy clearance diver Paul de Gelder lost his right hand and leg in a shark attack in 2009, Ms Clark is fielding constant questions about whether she was worried about being mauled. 'No. I didn't even think about sharks,' she said. 'I was probably more worried about the dog than for myself. 'Now people have said it, I'm like 'oh yeah, I guess so', but in the moment I was just like: 'Dog. I need to help'. The dog lover didn't think about sharks and was purely focused on rescuing the struggling pooch from the water (pictured, Ms Clark with her dog Chilli) The brave swimmer returned to work and continued her day as though nothing had happened 'I wish I was that responsible (to look out for sharks). But if something's meant to happen, it's meant to happen. That's life I guess.' The accidental hero said that her colleagues and workers from another restaurant rushed to cover her with tablecloths as she emerged from the water. 'I wish I had chosen underwear with more material that day... so it was very nice of everyone to protect my modesty,' she laughed. Ms Clark's colleague wrapped up the dog to get it dry, before the owner came over and offered to buy the office manager a thank you present for saving her cherished pet. It was then that Ms Clark noticed a lot of men standing around and was shocked that no-one else had helped. 'I'm looking around at the boys and I'm like 'c'mon guys' - surely someone should have beaten me to it, but no-one did,' she said. Astonishingly, the brave swimmer returned to work and continued her day as though nothing had happened. 'I still had my jeans, they were dry and I had a dry jumper at least (in the office) but I had to lose the underwear and the top and just continued my day like normal.' An Aussie shopper has fired up on social media about the rude customers she encounters at the supermarket. In her TikTok titled 'Justice for supermarket workers are you guys ok' Courtney Oliver said the staff at her local Coles in Perth are 'literally just old ladies working there who have been working there for like 65 million years' and 'young people who are like school and uni'. 'They're all beautiful, they're all lovely everyone there is so nice.' Ms Oliver continued: 'Every time I go, someone I don't want to say someone older, because sometimes they are younger but always someone is going, "I don't want to use self-serve, why is there no cash check-outs available?" Blah blah blah.' Looking straight at the camera Ms Oliver asked 'Do you think it's their fault?' 'Do you think that f****ing Emily who works at Coles three days a week just to pay for her life while she goes to uni, do you think she decides how many checkouts there are? 'Do you think old f***ing Linda who's worked there for 27 years on the checkout or selling smokes do you think that it's up to her? No!' Ms Oliver said she will always defend an employee or staff member if someone is being rude to them, because she has been in that position. Ms Olive continued her epic rant. 'If you truly believe the person serving you or standing there controlling the self serve checkout, if you believe that it is them that has personally made a decision that inconveniences you, you've got rocks in your head.' Ms Oliver ended the TikTok by reminding customers that staff members don't make decisions. 'They are massive corporations, they decide it, not young people. 'Stop being so mean.' Replies to Ms Oliver's TikTok thanked her for defending supermarket staff. 'As someone who works at Coles self serve checkouts, thank you,' one wrote. 'Coles worker here....every. single. day.! like, I kinda get it but why go on and on at us like it's our fault? We get told it's literally our fault!' wrote another. 'Absolutely. My daughter (who) worked at Coles had food thrown at her for asking someone to scan an item after they (tried) to steal it. 'Literally worked self serve and a lady came up screaming saying she shouldn't have to scan her things herself. Told her registers were open. Told me she didn't want to wait. Logic.' One reply summed up the gratitude towards Ms Oliver. 'Customers like you get us through our shifts so thank you!!' Joe Rogan's latest Netflix special has sparked a liberal meltdown, after the podcaster obliterated transgender people and COVID. The 56-year-old defended some of the controversial views he has made on The Joe Rogan Experience about vaccines and LGBT people in his live Netflix special Joe Rogan: Burn the Boats on Saturday. He also hit out at the media critics who have accused him of spreading misinformation and conspiracy theories. But many leftists who watched the special slammed his 'weird,' unfunny and 'stupid' comments on the controversial topics. 'I mean at least be funny if you're being ignorant and offensive,' Daily Beast columnist Wajahat Ali wrote on X. Joe Rogan has angered liberals with his latest live Netflix special 'Joe Rogan's main crime during his comedy special was he wasn't funny. His cult loves it, so it doesn't matter, but he's making too many smart people stupid.' Project Liberal cofounder Joshua Reed Eakle also wrote that 'Rogan is a testament to the dangers of going down the 'red pill' rabbit hole.' 'Avoid at all costs. It rots your brain.' Another X user, meanwhile, said Rogan proved 'he was right to say he can't tell jokes anymore: just not in the way he meant.' In the special, Rogan questions whether society had become too accepting of biological men identifying as trans women - a debate that has been reignited after Olympic boxer Imane Khelif failed a gender eligibility test. 'I just want to be real clear. I believe in trans people,' Rogan told an audience in Austin. 'Because I think the world is strange and nature can throw you a curveball and you believe you're in the wrong body. 'And I fully support your right as an adult to do whatever you want that makes you happy. 'I believe in freedom and I believe in love. But I also believe in crazy people,' the podcaster continued. Project Liberal cofounder Joshua Reed Eakle said the special 'rots your brain' Another X user said Rogan proved 'he was right to say he 'can't tell jokes anymore: just not in the way he meant' 'I'm open-minded. I just want to know what happened. 'It's almost like a pervert wizard waved a magic spell on the whole world. 'With a wave of this wand, you can walk into the women's locker room with a hard c***, and anybody who complains is a Nazi. Abracadabra!' And it just works!' He went on to say the 'new reality' is what is weird. 'You can't just put lipstick on and now you can s*** in the women's room!' In another clip that went viral, Rogan jokes that he's become more open to believing conspiracy theories following the COVID pandemic. 'We lost a lot of people during COVID and most of them are still alive,' he joked. 'Before COVID, I would have told you that vaccines are the most important invention in human history,' Rogan continued. 'After COVID, I'm like, 'I don't think we went to the moon. I think Michelle Obama's got a d***. I think Pizzagate is real. I think there's direct energy weapons in Antarctica. 'I'm just kidding - I don't think Michelle Obama's got a d***, but I do believe all of that other s***.' He then hit out at media critics who claimed he was spreading misinformation. 'But here's my take on that, sincerely: If you're getting your vaccine advice from me, is that really my fault?' He made a joke at one point about Michelle Obama, saying he doesn't believe she's got a d*** Other times, Rogan joked about not wanting to be 'surrounded by gay men.' 'I think about gay men the same way I think about mountain lions: I'm happy they're real, but I don't want to be surrounded by them,' he said. 'They're a bunch of dudes who f*** dudes. I don't like my chances, OK? They're not unicorns - they're just men who f*** men.' But Rogan said he is 'not even remotely homophobic.' 'I'm the opposite. I wish I was gay.' He also recounted how a female TSA agent once asked for a 'male assist' to pat him down, and he asked, with mock judgment: 'Did you just assume my gender?' The New York Times wrote that Rogan 'leans into stereotypes that have cracked up drunken club crowds for generations' The Wrap also hit out at Rogan saying he 'fashioned himself as a conduit for anger' Those moments proved to be fodder for critics, with the New York Times writing that Rogan 'leans into stereotypes that have cracked up drunken club crowds for generations.' 'Rogan has found a podcast audience that likes conspiracies and picking culture war battles wit the left,' columnist Jason Zinoman writes. 'And he gives it to them. 'But he also indulges his own obsessions and eccentricities.' The Wrap also hit out at Rogan, saying he 'fashioned himself as a conduit for anger,' and the Daily Beast said he 'fixated throughout the hour on men receiving sexual pleasure in ways the comedian felt were unnatural'. 'Rogan did not disclose how much of his Netflix paycheck he planned to donate for all of the slurs he used in his live hour,' columnist Sean L McCarthy wrote. DailyMail.com has reached out to Netflix for comment. American defense officials are planning for the crisis in the Middle East to become even worse following a rocket black that injured several soldiers at a military base in Iraq Monday. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin announced Monday night the US was deploying additional fighters, carrier strike groups, ballistic missile defense-capable cruisers and destroyers to the region, as Israel awaits retaliation from Iran for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. 'These posture adjustments add to the broad range of capabilities the US military maintains in the region, including the USS Wasp amphibious ready group/Marine expeditionary unit operating in the eastern Mediterranean,' a DOD spokesperson said. Meanwhile, in Washington, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris held an all-hands meeting in the situation room to discuss a response to the attack on Ain al-Assad base. The base in the west of the country was targeted by two Soviet-made Katyusha rockets amid soaring tensions in the Middle East - with Iran threatening to strike Israel as early as Monday night. American defense officials are beginning to plot for the crisis in the Middle East to become even worse following a rocket black that injured several soldiers at a military base in Iraq Monday Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin announced Monday night that the United States was deploying additional fighters, carrier strike groups, ballistic missile defense-capable cruisers and destroyers to the region Biden and Harris were told by NatSec officials that it was still unclear when the retaliatory attack from Iran would come, Axios reported. Officials told the president and vice president that they could potentially see two waves of attack, one each from Hezbollah and Iran. However, intelligence was not clear on who would attack first and what form it would take, calling it a 'work in progress'. '[Biden and Harris] discussed the steps we are taking to defend our forces and respond to any attack against our personnel in a manner and place of our choosing,' the White House said in a statement. Israel Katz, the Israeli Foreign Minister, has said he has it on good authority that Iran is set to attack the Jewish state, according to the New York Post. The killing of Haniyeh came a day after an Israeli strike in Beirut killed Fuad Shukr, a senior military commander from the Lebanese group Hezbollah. The rocket fire on the US base is the latest in a series of attacks targeting the base in western Iraq, which hosts American troops as well as personnel from the US-led coalition against the Islamic State jihadist group. The base in the west of the country was targeted by two Soviet-made Katyusha rockets amid soaring tensions in the Middle East - with Iran threatening to strike Israel as early as tonight The Department of Defense also confirmed the severity of the attack. 'There was a suspected rocket attack today against US and coalition forces' at the base, a US defense spokesperson said. 'Initial indications are that several US personnel were injured.' 'Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment' and updates will be provided as more information becomes available, the spokesperson added. An Iraqi military source had earlier said that multiple rockets were fired at base, with some landing inside it and another hitting nearby village but not causing damage. A commander in a pro-Iran armed group told AFP that at least two rockets targeted the base, without saying who had carried out the attack. Another source in the group and a security source confirmed an attack occurred. Such attacks were frequent early in the war between Israel and Hamas Palestinian militants in Gaza but since then have largely halted. The latest rocket fire comes as fears grow of an attack by Iran and its allies on Israel in retaliation for the killing of top Hamas and Hezbollah figures in strikes last weeks either blamed on or claimed by Israel. Israel awaits retaliation from Iran for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh last week It was not immediately clear who was behind the attack, however Iran's proxy forces in Iraq and Syria frequently attack US bases at times of heightened tension. Joe Biden was already scheduled to meet with his national security team in the Situation Room today as the lame-duck president seeks to soothe blistering tensions between Israel and Iran after the Jewish state assassinated Hamas leaders in Tehran and Beirut, Lebanon, last week. The Islamic Republic could attack Israel in the next 24 to 48 hours following a major attack by Hezbollah that left two IDF soldiers injured, top western diplomats have warned. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the G7 yesterday that an attack in response to Israel's killing of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut was imminent, Axios reported. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III reportedly spoke to his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant on Sunday to assure the Jewish state of U.S. support. It would mark the second time during the growing crisis in the Middle East that Iran has directly attacked Israel, the first being in April when it sent a salvo of missiles and drones overnight. Iran has clearly signaled that it intends to attack its foe, claiming it has the 'legal right' to respond to Haniyeh's assassination. Foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani told a news conference: 'No one has the right to doubt Iran's legal right to punish the Zionist regime.' The head of Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, General Hossein Salami, also threatened Israel, warning that the state was 'digging its own grave' by carrying on its war against the terror group Hamas. Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his nation is already in a 'multi-front war' with Iran Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The country is set to attack Israel imminently, claiming it has the 'legal right' to respond to Haniyeh's assassination Footage shows the Iron Dome system firing defensive missiles (pictured) to intercept the barrage amid ongoing clashes between Israeli troops and Lebanon's Hezbollah fighters 'They will see the result of their mistake. They will see when, how and where they will get their response,' Salami said during a speech. The threat from Iran comes just hours after Hezbollah, backed by the Iranian regime, launched a silo of 30 missiles from Lebanon towards upper Galilee. The escalating tensions between Israel, Hezbollah and Iran have led to growing fears of an all-out war breaking out in the Middle East between Israel and Tehran's proxies. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his nation is already in a 'multi-front war' with Iran, adding during a Cabinet meeting on Sunday that Israel is prepared for any scenario. Netanyahu has also been accused of not being 'sincerely interested in a ceasefire', as Hamas' Haniyeh was the terror group's lead ceasefire negotiator. The U.S. said on the G7 call on Sunday that its choice to increase its military capability in the region was to bolster defense. Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas in retaliation for its unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel that resulted in the deaths of 1,197 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures. Militants also seized 251 hostages, 111 of whom are still held captive in Gaza, including 39 the military says are dead. Israel's retaliatory campaign has left at least 39,583 people dead in Gaza, according to the territory's health ministry, which does not give details of civilian and militant deaths. Portland police officers arrested more than 20 people over the weekend in a daring bid to break up the illegal street takeovers and car races that have plagued the city. During the high-octane mission, which even involved one suspect launching fireworks at officers in a desperate getaway, authorities cited numerous drivers, including the owner of a black Chevy 'Batmobile.' Beginning Friday night, the officers flooded the streets to seek out any street takeovers, which involve people illegally shutting down intersections so that they can race their cars or perform stunts. During their mission, two people were killed when a car that the police had tried to pull over smashed into a power pole, killing the people inside the vehicle. Portland police officers arrested more than 20 people over the weekend in a daring bid to break up the illegal street takeovers and car races that have plagued the city During the high-octane mission, authorities cited numerous drivers, including the owner of a black Chevy 'Batmobile' Over the course of the rest of the night, the police broke up several street takeovers and seized a stolen vehicle. On Saturday, the officers had to deal with at least six attempts by the underground racers to seize intersections. The police successfully dismantled each street takeover, breaking up the first one in less than fifteen minutes. As the night wore on, the officers arrested eleven individuals, including a 19-year-old driver on several felony charges, including 100 counts of recklessly endangering another person and unlawful possession of a firearm. At another point, the Portland police stopped a 'Batmobile' around 2700 North Marine Drive, where the driver was cited for a traffic violation. Another driver who was spinning recklessly in one intersection tried to flee on foot after officers used spike strips to pierce his tires. Beginning Friday night, the officers flooded the streets to seek out any street takeovers, which involve people illegally shutting down intersections so that they can race their cars or perform stunts An abandoned Ford Mustang was recovered by authorities With the help of a K9 unit, authorities were able to nab the individual in someone's yard. The police disrupted another street takeover at the intersection of NE Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Columbia Boulevard, where one teen, hoping to get away, blasted fireworks at the authorities. The officers were still able to arrest them. On Sunday, things were slower and the police foiled two attempts at street takeovers in different Southeast Portland locations. At the first spot, the intersection of Southeast 2nd Avenue and Morrison Street, officers arrested a 17-year-old driver and towed their 1998 Ford Mustang. By the time the operation concluded on Sunday night, the Portland authorities had made over 140 traffic stops and towed more than 20 vehicles. By the time the operation concluded on Sunday night, the Portland authorities had made over 140 traffic stops and towed more than 20 vehicles On Saturday, the officers had to deal with at least six attempts by the underground racers to seize intersections The Portland Police Bureau was assisted by other law enforcement agencies- including Vancouver police and Oregon State Police- in their mission. Local residents explained that this kind of reckless driving is unfortunately nothing new. 'The amount of years weve been here, we adapted to it. We adjusted to it,' Synaca Hall, who lives in the area, told KOIN. 'Some change needs to happen for sure, because it's a nuisance,' she added. In an interview with KGW8, Hall expressed her approval of the police's mission. 'I feel like they are on the mend of doing what they are supposed to do as far as cracking down on these takeovers.' Earlier in the week, the police had learned on social media that somewhere between 500 and 1,000 people would be descending on Portland for the 'West Coast Invitational'- a planned street takeover. Last year, the same event resulted in a homicide, two shootings, and a fatal car crash. On Sunday, things were slower and the police foiled two attempts at street takeovers in different Southeast Portland locations Their advanced notice allowed allowed the Portland Police Bureau to prepare for the situation and to warn the public about it. On Thursday, PPB Lt. Chadd Stensgaard sounded the alarm to locals at a press conference. 'These events are dangerous,' Lt. Stensgaard cautioned. 'These are young, inexperienced drivers that come with high-powered cars. They bring guns to these events.' An Australian premier's election promise to open state-owned service stations in a bid to reduce fuel costs has been labelled the 'dumbest policy' by a political opponent. Queensland Premier Steven Miles announced if he wins the state election in October, he will establish 12 state-owned service stations across Queensland. The Courier Mail reports the plan is estimated to cost $36 million, although Mr Miles admitted the figure is not backed by analysis or detailed modelling. Mr Miles announced the plan in his State of the State address on Tuesday. 'Publicly owned fuel stations will charge a fair price for fuel, increase competition, and ensure Queenslanders have more choice when it comes to filling up.' He also announced if Labor is re-elected, it will ban petrol stations increasing fuel prices more than once a day, as well as a trial to cap price increases to 5 cents a litre a day. Deputy LNP Opposition Leader Jarrod Bleijie did not hold back in criticism of the premier's plan, calling it 'economic vandalism'. 'This would have to be the dumbest policy I have seen announced by a Queensland premier,' he said. Queensland Premier Steven Miles (pictured) announced if he wins the state election in October, he will establish 12 state-owned service stations across Queensland Mr Miles said the 12 initial service station sites will be determined by government, based on where competition is most needed across the state 'Seriously what's next the butcher, the baker, the candlestick maker?' Mr Bleijie added, 'He will wipe out independent retailers.' 'What is he going to say to the mum and dad that have to close their business down, therefore creating less competition and opportunity in the marketplace, therefore driving up petrol prices,' he said. The Australasian Convenience and Petroleum Marketers Association's chief executive Mark McKenzie was also scathing of Mr Miles' plan. 'History proves that government interference in complex competitive markets inevitably leads to higher costs for consumers and the retail fuel market is no different.' Mr McKenzie said the lack of industry consultation before the announcement of Mr Mile's plan 'beggars belief'. '(This has also been done) without any clear legislative mechanism for how this proposal would work in practice,' he said. In a statement, Mr Miles said his plan is all about delivering greater competition. 'The costs associated with owning and driving a car can add up. 'But most Queenslanders, especially in the regions, need a car to get around, drop the kids at school or to do their work.' He said rising fuel prices was not a simple issue to fix. 'We don't control global oil prices and we can't force privately owned petrol retailers to charge less at the bowser, but a government I lead will do whatever we can to bring petrol prices down.' Deputy Opposition Leader Jarrod Bleijie (pictured) did not hold back in his criticism of the premier's plan, calling it 'economic vandalism' The 12 initial sites will be determined by government, based on where competition is most needed across the state. Mr Miles said his government will work with stakeholders, including independent retailers. 'I am also committed to working with experts and industry to ensure fair competition in all Queensland communities and that fuel prices can't be jacked up by any more than 5c a day.' Mr Miles posted about his plan on his social media channels. 'We will set up publicly owned fuel stations if we're elected in October. 'They will charge a fair price, increase competition, and give Queenslanders more choice when filling up.' Replies to the premier's posts didn't hold back. 'Oh c'mon Steven! This is now beyond the ridiculous! You simply can't buy the election by promising cheap petrol! That's a lunacy!!' one X user wrote. 'You truly are unhinged, Miles. Most of the cost of fuel is tax. Will you be getting your federal mates to cut the taxes on fuel for your servos?,' another wrote. 'Bull****! That will be a complete disaster under the public service conditions of employment - overtime, holidays, working from home, DEI etc etc. 'Stop trying to buy the election.' A New jersey mayor is clashing with a controversial Missouri Republican with a history of anti-gay statements after he threatened to fire her brother for donating to her campaign. The fight has spilled over into social media, with the mayor publishing text messages chastising the candidate's brother and her then responding with an angry video and threatening a lawsuit. Valentina Gomez, a 25-year-old property investor, is running for secretary of state in Missouri and has made headlines with a series of viral videos espousing right-wing views. The gun-toting MAGA candidate in May told voters to not be 'weak and gay' and has made videos slamming Juneteenth, Black Lives Matter (BLM), and plans to compensate the descendants of victims of slavery. She has also used anti-gay slurs to protest the opening ceremonies of the Paris Olympics. It was revealed that Gomez's brother, Jonathan Gomez Noriega, has spent three years working on the staff and LGBTQ+ task force for Democrat Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop and the last six years as the primary aide to the mayor. It was revealed that Gomez's brother, Jonathan Gomez Noriega (pictured left), has spent three years working on the staff and LGBTQ + task force for Democrat Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop and the last six years as the primary aide to the mayor Mayor Steven Fulop published text messages urging Jonathan Gomez Noriega to distance himself from his sister's campaign Gomez announced in a video Monday that she had recordings of Fulop threatening her brother's job following reports he'd donated $1,250 to her campaign and that she was planning legal action. 'Fulop is making him choose between his family, or his job. Steven, you should've chosen your words more carefully, because you don't sound like a Democratic mayor, you sound like a dictator,' she said. 'You cannot be governor, this is not the way to treat your employees, or any human being but I will let the people decide.' She then played the audio clip over a photo of Fulop. 'Jon, if you think that is boldness, I am gonna' fire you. I'm gonna look in five minutes, if not clear where you stand, then you're not with me, you're with her and you can't work with me. Period, okay? Like, that's it, end of story. Five minutes.' Fulop responded to Gomez's video by posting a lengthy statement to X and attached four screenshots of his text messages telling Gomez Noriega his support of his sister's campaign was unacceptable. 'Valentina - first your brother WAS an 'at-will' employee for the city - as of tomorrow he no longer works there bc he doesn't reflect the values of the city,' he wrote. 'Second, You can see how strongly I feel about the LGBTQ community and I'll share the text messages we exchanged so ppl know ill fight for them when people are watching and the same when they can't see what I'm doing.' Valentina Gomez, a 25-year-old property investor, is running for secretary of state in Missouri and has made headlines with a series of viral videos espousing right-wing views Fulop responded to Gomez's video by posting a lengthy statement to X and attached four screenshots of his text messages telling Gomez Noriega his support of his sister's campaign was unacceptable The text messages largely reflect Fulop's views in the audio recording, showing Fulop trying to dictate what Gomez Noriega should say in his apology. Gomez has responded multiple times to those condemning her brother with her brand of rhetoric. After Frank E. Gilmore, a Democrat councilmember in the city, said that Gomez Noriega should be removed, Gomez called him a 'felon and a drug dealer' and said her brother could be better used elsewhere. 'Yes please! Appoint him to more useful boards instead of that gay s***. He's an American citizen and can do what he wants with his money. Gotta give credit to Steven Fulop who is the only Democrat mayor that has actually done right for the city he leads,' she wrote. Gilmore was jailed at 19 for drug offenses, serving six-and-a-half years in prison, before obtaining a college degree and opening a community center, then running for city council, according to Hudson County View. Gomez Noriega - a former Olympic swimmer and graduate of Columbia after emigrating with his family at a young age - posted a statement of his own Monday afternoon. 'Different beliefs shouldn't divide us,' he wrote. 'This issue touches dinner tables across America. I choose respect, peace, and the chance to embrace my loved ones, putting family above politics and any appointed position.' The text messages largely reflect Fulop's views in the audio recording, showing Fulop trying to dictate what Gomez Noriega should say in his apology Text message exchange between Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop and aide Jonathan Gomez Noriega 'I do not and will never discriminate against ANY human being. I am an Olympic Swimmer, a Graduate of Columbia University School of International Public Affairs, and have been loyally serving the people of Jersey City for over six years.' He then announced he was formally stepping down from the LGBTQ+ task force, but said he looks 'forward to continue serving the people of Jersey City'. 'I may not agree with everything my sister says, but I love her. It's this kind of boldnessstepping up for my family and maintaining our relationshipthat makes our country strong,' he said. 'Political differences should not destroy families.' A petition calling for Gomez Noriega's resignation from the task force had achieved over 300 signatures, while Congressman Rob Menendez - the son of convicted New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez - commended the calls for him to resign and Gomez's attacks on Gilmore. It remains unclear if Gomez Noriega will retain his job as an aide to the mayor, though Fulop's statement suggests he will be removed from his position entirely. Kimberly Wallace-Scalcione, a spokesperson for the city, told NJ.com they have 'made it explicitly clear that the views expressed 1,000 miles away in Missouri are shameful and have no place here in Jersey City.' DailyMail.com has reached out to a Wallace-Scalcione for further comment on Gomez Noriega's job status. After Frank E. Gilmore, a Democrat councilmember in the city, said that Gomez Noriega should be removed, Gomez called him a 'felon and a drug dealer' and said her brother could be better used elsewhere Gomez Noriega - a former Olympic swimmer and graduate of Columbia after emigrating with his family at a young age - posted a statement of his own Monday afternoon In a statement, Valentina Gomez added: 'Family over everything! Its very hypocritical that there is a task force for just 1% of the population.' She wondered why there were no similar task forces for veterans, police or firefighters or 'families that have stayed together'. The city website says the goal of the task force is to 'provide equal opportunity to all of its diverse employees, residents, and businesses.' Valentina Gomez - who also came here from Colombia and is a huge supporter of Donald Trump - has emerged in a divisive election season, in which politics around race, gender and sexual identities have become front-burner issues and for some candidates, a vote-winner. Gomez is running for Missouri secretary of state as a Republican. As the state is heavily red, it's likely that the winner of the Republican primary will prevail in the general election The incumbent, Republican Jay Ashcroft, is running for Missouri governor, leaving the seat open. Gomez has attracted far more attention than her competitors simply for her controversial stances and provocative videos. One showed her jogging through the mostly LGBTQ neighborhood of Soulard in St. Louis in May, wearing a bulletproof vest and telling voters to not be 'weak and gay.' While Gomez Noriega has resigned from the LGBTQ+ task force, his employment as the mayor's aide remains in question Gomez, a Colombia native, is on the ballot in the August 6 GOP primary to choose the candidate for secretary of state In February she shared footage of herself setting two LGBTQ-themed books on fire, characterizing the texts as 'grooming, indoctrinating and sexualizing'. 'When I'm Secretary of State, I will BURN all books that are grooming, indoctrinating, and sexualizing our children. MAGA. America First,' she wrote on X . After Instagram removed the video, Gomez told HuffPost she was: 'Just like President Trump,' adding: 'I am one of the most suppressed voices on Instagram.' Gomez has previously said 'don't be gay,' when referencing 'countries that ban rifles, guns or even flamethrowers,' as reported by radio station WCPT. Her social media bio reads: 'Jesus is King. MAGA. America First.' She opposes vaccine mandates and the 'transgender agenda.' Gomez has also expressed admiration for Andrew Tate, who is accused of human trafficking in Romania. She worked until recently in finance at Nestle Purina. Gomez has garnered a reputation for wading into conservative culture war issues She recently attacked Dylan Mulvaney, who spoke at a Missouri Jesuit college. She called Mulvaney 'a dude' with 'a penis.' Since the secretary of state serves as the chief elections official in Missouri, Gomez has floated plans to revamp the voting system. She says the 2020 election was stolen from Trump, which may inform her plan to 'remove electronic voting machines to successfully transition towards universal paper ballot hand counting,' per her campaign website. She also supports deploying the National Guard to monitor polling places in Missouri. Waymo robotaxis, like this one driving down the Embarcadero, can now drive people beyond the limits of San Francisco, with expansion into the Peninsula. Camille Cohen/Special to the Chronicle Waymo is expanding its Bay Area robotaxi operations beyond San Francisco for the first time, with its driverless cars now serving a 10-square-mile portion of the Peninsula. The Alphabet-owned company announced Tuesday that, effective immediately, Waymo riders in San Francisco can now hail rides through the Waymo One app to Daly City, Broadmoor and Colma and vice versa. The expanded service area now includes San Francisco neighborhoods on the periphery of the citys Daly City border that werent previously accessible by Waymo robotaxis, such as the Outer Mission, Crocker-Amazon and Sunnydale. Though the company is testing its vehicles on freeways with human backup drivers, Waymos robotaxis will stick to local roads while carrying passengers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Waymo also announced that it will expand its service area in Los Angeles, which it launched in April with limited users, to 79 square miles. Waymos announcement marks the first time the company is making use of a decision by the California Public Utilities Commission that permitted its commercial driverless ride-hailing expansion to San Mateo County. The commission, which regulates autonomous ride-hailing in California, granted Waymos unrestricted expansion to 22 Peninsula cities and Los Angeles in March. The companys commercial launch in San Mateo County arrives one year after the CPUC permitted the companys expansion in San Francisco. Waymos expanded service area in the Bay Area now covers 55 square miles, according to the company. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Mountain View company has followed a familiar strategy since its commercial debut last fall, opting to gradually expand its service area and the number of robotaxis its using for paid ride-hailing. In June, the company got rid of its waiting list and opened access to its app to anyone in San Francisco. Waymo said last month that it had about 300 robotaxis in San Francisco for paid ride-hailing. Its unclear how many vehicles now make up Waymos commercial fleet in San Francisco and the Peninsula, though a Waymo spokesperson said the company is continuing to add cars to scale our fleet over time. Waymo has been preparing for its expansion to the Peninsula for months. The company started testing driverless rides in San Mateo County earlier this spring and has hundreds more vehicles registered with the state that it isnt using for commercial service, at least not yet. According to the state Department of Motor Vehicles, Waymo has 778 vehicles registered throughout the state under the deployment permit that allows the company to carry people on fully driverless rides. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Horrifying pictures have revealed the devastating impact of Hurricane Debby after the storm made landfall in the Big Bend of Florida. Huge torrents of rain have caused significant damage and killed at least five people so far, two of whom were children. The center of Debby is about 60 miles north-northwest of Jacksonville, Florida, and experts expect the tropical storm to dump historic amounts of rain and bring catastrophic flooding from northern Florida to southeastern North Carolina through Friday night. Even though maximum sustained winds have slowed to about 45 miles per hour, the storm has laid waste to much of the Gulf Coast of Florida, leaving downed power lines, flooded streets and fallen trees. Charleston could be hit with over two feet of rain over the next five days, while Savannah may receive the typical rainfall over an entire summer over that same time period. As such, both cities have been placed under a mandatory curfew. The most recent hurricane projections suggest South Carolina will be hit as soon as Thursday at 2pm ET Due to Debby's slow movement on land, some areas could be drenched with 10 to 30 inches of rainfall, which will likely worsen cause even more damage to roads, bridges and other key pieces of infrastructure The storm is expected to slowly move east through Georgia, then swing into the Atlantic ocean by Tuesday. By Wednesday, Debby will turn north and could strengthen before making landfall in South Carolina by Thursday evening. North Carolina will be hit as well, with the storm expected to make an appearance there some time Friday. As the storm mostly moves past Florida, over 133,000 customers in the state remain without power as of 1am ET, according to poweroutage.us. That number is more than 28,000 in Georgia, a figure that's likely to climb as winds and rain become more intense throughout the morning on Tuesday. All of this comes as authorities have released the most up to date death toll from the devastating storm - five people have died so far, four in Florida and one in Georgia. A 19-year-old was killed in Moultrie, Georgia, after a tree fell on the side of a home Monday afternoon, marking the latest death. Moultrie is located in south Georgia, around 200 miles south of Atlanta. A similar tragedy unfolded in Levy County, Florida, where a 13-year-old boy was crushed by a tree that fell onto his mobile home, marking the first life claimed by the storm. The second person to die was driving a tractor-trailer near Tampa early Monday. The 64-year-old Mississippi man behind the wheel lost control on the slick road and plunged off an interstate bridge into a canal, according to Florida Highway Patrol. Pictured: A tree fell onto the home of a 13-year-old boy. The trunk fatally crushed him. He was the first to lose his life to the hurricane Hillsborough County Fire Rescue is pictured pulling a tractor-trailer from the water after it veered off the road in the early morning hours on Monday Tragically, the driver of the truck did not survive the fall 'The vehicle rotated, collided with a concrete barrier wall along the outside shoulder and traveled over the wall,' the highway patrol wrote in a press release following the incident. 'The trailer came to rest hanging from the bridge while the cab separated and fell into the Tampa Bypass Canal.' Heartbreaking photos show members of Florida's Hillsborough County Fire Rescue team pulling the truck out of the water. A 38-year-old woman and 12-year-old boy were also killed in a car crash in Dixie County, Florida, on Sunday evening. A 14-year-old boy that was also in the car is in critical condition, CNN reported. Witnesses to the single-vehicle crash told police the car lost control and 'struck the guardrail in the center median, then re-directed, overturning, leaving the roadway to the right,' according to the statement from the Highway Patrol. None of three people were wearing seatbelts, police added. Police and first responders are seen boating through what were once drivable streets to rescue people from submerged homes A member of the Sarasota Sherriff's Department is seen wading into water that's above his waist In Gulfport, a Tampa-adjacent city, a man's body was found by police after witnesses said he anchored his sailboat near Gulfport's Veteran's Park, FOX 13 reported. The man hasn't yet been positively identified, but the man on the boat is believed to be 48-year-old Brian Clough. Clough reportedly lives on his boat with his dog, who was rescued by nearby boaters. Slightly further south in Sarasota, Florida, police and first responders piloted through flooded streets and successfully evacuated roughly 500 people from homes that were underwater. The city, which is roughly 60 miles from Tampa, got more than a foot of rain from the storm, more than a month's worth. The extreme flooding from Debby has also wreaked havoc on critical infrastructure throughout the state. One example came in south Hillsborough County, near Tampa, where a 15 foot section of road completely caved in thanks to a dormant sinkhole being torn open by the gushing water. Officials closed the road to traffic on Monday. Brian Clough, another presumed victim of the deadly tropical storm, is pictured alongside his dog A 15 foot section of road in south Hillsborough County, near Tampa, completely caved in thanks to a dormant sinkhole being torn open by the gushing water Sailboats docked in Tampa Bay are pictured coming untied and crashing into the seawall A transfer truck lies overturned on Independence Parkway in Tampa This family meanwhile decided to take their ATV for a spin, testing it in the now completely flooded streets of eastern Hillsborough County Due to Debby's slow movement on land, some areas could be drenched with 10 to 30 inches of rainfall, which will likely worsen cause even more damage to roads, bridges and other key pieces of infrastructure. As the situation worsens throughout the south, governors are getting serious about response strategies. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has deployed 2,000 state national guard troops to assist with evacuations and rescues. Roy Cooper, the governor of North Carolina, a state that hasn't been hit yet, has preemptively declared a state of emergency. President Joe Biden has also approved emergency declaration request from Florida, Georgia and North Carolina, a move that will mobilize relief efforts. EXCLUSIVE The Australian Defence Force has quietly scrubbed references to a senior RAAF pilot from their social media pages after his wife died in a mysterious lawnmower incident last week. Frances Crawford, 49, was found dead at her Upper Lockyer home, in south east Queensland, at 3.40am on Tuesday, July 30 after police received reports she had been critically injured by a ride-on mower. Police have deemed Ms Crawford's death as suspicious, and her husband Robert, who made a triple-0 call, has been assisting detectives with their inquiries. Daily Mail Australia does not suggest Mr Crawford was involved in his wife's death, only that he is assisting police. As detectives continue to investigate the baffling case, the military has swiftly deleted posts on their official Facebook page about Mr Crawford, 47, who is a Squadron Leader based out of Amberley Airforce Base. Frances Crawford, 49, was found dead at her Upper Lockyer home, in south east Queensland , at 3.40am on Tuesday, July 30 after police received a call saying she was critically injured by a ride-on mower Her husband Robert, who made the triple-0 call, has been assisting detectives with their inquiries The social media posts spruiked the efforts of the armed services and featured photos of Mr Crawford on duty alongside quotes from him about military projects. One post, about working with the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, quoted Squadron Leader Crawford as saying: 'Exposure to new ways of thinking and sharing skills with the PNGDF [Papua New Guinea Defence Force] is invaluable for all of us at No. 35 Squadron. 'We look forward to helping our closest neighbour rebuild their sovereign aviation capability and safety systems. 'In turn, the PNGDF will help us in our mountainous flying training, airfield facility access and other training exercises in PNG, working side-by-side on future joint humanitarian and disaster relief operations.' Daily Mail Australia understands Mr Crawford had only returned to Australia from an overseas deployment about a week before his wife's death. The Department of Defence declined to comment. Daily Mail Australia can also reveal that Mr Crawford was embroiled in court issues while stationed in Adelaide in 2012. He was charged with abuse of public office after he allegedly manipulated regulations to get a Middle East posting and earn a tax-free bonus. During proceedings, Mr Crawford sought to subpoena classified documents to prove that he had good reasons to be deployed at the time in question. Prosecutors later dropped all charges against him. Police are seen arriving at the Crawford's rural property on Thursday, during a major search of the property Detectives spent Tuesday collecting evidence from the home - including the lawnmower, pictured The revelations come as police plead for the public's help as they work to piece together the circumstances surrounding Ms Crawford's death. Ten police vehicles were seen swooping on the rural property last Thursday, including several cars filled with forensic equipment, as detectives ramp up their investigation. Speaking to media the following day, Detective Superintendent George Marchesini said detectives were still trying to determine how she suffered terrible injuries. 'There are a number of things that we need to understand better to determine what the cause was and how this has actually happened,' he said. 'We have not been able to determine a cause in regards to what was discovered at that scene, hence why we are determining this matter to be suspicious. 'If [you] have knowledge of the woman and you obviously hear this information coming out this week, then we want to hear from them in relation to what they do know.' Do you know more? Email tips@dailymail.com Video from New York's Nassau County legislature captured the shocking moment a mask advocate had to be dragged out of the meeting after lawmakers voted to ban masks in public spaces. In the chaotic footage taken on Monday night, authorities could be seen hauling out a defiant female protestor who is wearing a mask and dragging her feet. The woman seemed to be clutching a poster with a picture of a mask on it. Soon another officer stepped in to help usher the irate mask activist out of the room. In the background, authorities appeared to be escorting out other frustrated protestors, each of whom proudly wore a mask. Video from New York's Nassau County legislature captured the shocking moment a mask advocate had to be dragged out of the meeting after lawmakers voted to ban masks in public spaces To pass the law, all twelve Republicans voted in favor of the piece of legislation, while each of the seven Democrats abstained Some attendees had their phones out and were recording the tumultuous scene. Authorities arrested a woman around 6:30 pm and charged her with obstructing governmental administration for allegedly causing a disturbance at the meeting. The turmoil broke out shortly after the Nassau County legislators voted along party lines to pass a polarizing bill that makes it illegal to wear a mask in public to conceal one's identity. According to the new 'Mask Transparency Law,' masks will be permitted for health reasons, in addition to religious and celebratory purposes. Prior to the pandemic, a similar state law had been in place. Authorities arrested a woman around 6:30 pm and charged her with obstructing governmental administration for allegedly causing a disturbance at the meeting Those who are opposed to the bill fear that it could jeopardize the health of locals Champions of the bill laud it as a means for preventing people from hiding behind masks to perpetrate violence and other crimes To pass the law, all twelve Republicans voted in favor of the piece of legislation, while each of the seven Democrats abstained. Champions of the bill laud it as a means for preventing people from hiding behind masks to perpetrate violence and other crimes. However, those who are opposed to the bill fear that it could jeopardize the health of locals. Bridget Jones, a Harlem resident who is immuno-compromised, showed up at the legislature to rail against the bill. 'This law endangers my life. This law endangers the lives of many people,' she told News12. Bridget Jones, a Harlem resident who is immuno-compromised, showed up at the legislature to rail against the bill Those who illegally wear masks will face a penalty of up to one year in prison and a $1,000 fine According to the law, police will be wield the power to determine whether or not a mask is being worn in a legal fashion. This piece of the legislation has given rise to fears that the bill could lead to discrimination against black people. Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County Executive, is expected to sign and pass the legislation. Those who illegally wear masks will face a penalty of up to one year in prison and a $1,000 fine. Adelaide has been crowned the most beautiful city in the world by a prestigious design magazine, beating out some of the planet's most popular destinations to the top spot. The South Australian capital edged out several global cities including New York, Paris and Barcelona. Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, was rated the second most beautiful city followed by Portsmouth, an island city in the Caribbean nation of Dominica. The list, which names 20 international destinations, was compiled by the globally renowned design magazine Architectural Digest. The magazine described Adelaide as a place where visitors can 'find surf, sand dunes and Art Deco architecture'. 'Adelaide has rolling hills lush with high-quality grapes, making it the countrys wine capital.' The list considered several factors such as architecture, historical relevance and natural appeal to compile list. 'The best cities offer something that cant be found anywhere else,' the magazine stated. Other cities that made the cut include Singapore, Amsterdam, Rio de Janeiro, and Florence in Italy. The South Australian capital edged out several global cities including New York, Paris, and Barcelona in Spain (stock image) Adelaide - known to Australians as the 'city of churches' - was also praised as home to iconic buildings and beautiful beaches popular among tourists. St Peter's Cathedral, which was built in 1904, is one of the most recognised landmarks in the city, located nearby to the famous Adelaide Oval. Glenelg and Brighton Beach are renowned for stunning views of the ocean and dozens of popular cafes and restaurants. The city is also the gateway to some of the world's best wine regions including Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale and the Barossa Valley. Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia (pictured) in northern Europe, was rated the second most beautiful city in the world (stock image) New York City in the United States also made the cut among the list of top 20 most beautiful global destinations (stock image) The Barossa Valley consists of more than 170 wineries and is home to several famous producers such as Penfolds and Jacobs Creek. The exclusive list comes despite Adelaide recently being ranked the ninth least affordable city in the world to buy a home. The grim findings by the annual Demographia International Housing Report also ranked Sydney as the second least affordable city to live. Melbourne also featured on top 10 list with Hong Kong taking out the top spot. A minister today hit out at Elon Musk's 'deplorable' claim that civil war in the UK is 'inevitable' - as the billionaire launched a new attack on Britain's police after clashing with the Prime Minister. The owner of X is at the centre of an intensifying war of words with the Government after he used his platform to make a series of inflammatory claims over race riots seen on the streets of Britain in recent days. Sir Keir Starmer and Downing Street last night hit out at the billionaire for suggesting 'civil war is inevitable' following days of rioting fuelled by disinformation on social media after the deaths of three little girls in Southport last week. Asked about Mr Musk's comments today, Justice minister Heidi Alexander told BBC Breakfast 'everyone should be calling for calm' and that Musk in particular 'has a responsibility given the huge platform he has, and so, to be honest, I think his comments are pretty deplorable'. The Prime Minister's spokesman yesterday said there was 'no justification for comments like that', prompting Mr Musk to reply directly by responding to a video posted by the PM stressing attacks on mosques and Muslims would not be tolerated. Downing Street rebuked Elon Musk, the owner of X, for using his platform to claim that 'civil war is inevitable' Elon Musk hit out at the UK's police last night as he responded to an offensive cartoon Yesterday Sir Keir posted a video condemning the violence and warning that criminal justice will be 'ramped up' He added: 'We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities.' In response, Mr Musk wrote: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities?' Musk had earlier replied to a tweet by right-wing commentator Ashley St Clair, who said far-right rioting was down to 'the effects of mass migration', by suggesting 'civil war is inevitable' The mogul, who is the richest man in the world with more than $200billion and has 193million followers on X, asked Sir Keir: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities? Overnight he then responded to a cartoon featuring offensive caricatures of two men, one wearing a headband featuring the flag of Pakistan, holding a knife, alongside a police officer with the caption: 'We are here to protect you.' Underneath is a man saying: 'I don't want my children to get stabbed', while a police officer accuses him of being a 'Nazi'. The user who posted the cartoon wrote 'The UK police are compromised' - to which Musk responded: 'Does seem one-sided'. So-called 'two tier policing' is a claim often used by the far-right to imply that police treat certain groups of people in different ways. Ms Alexander attacked Mr Musk again in a separate interview this morning. She told Times Radio: 'I agree with what the spokesperson on behalf of the Prime Minister was saying yesterday. I do think these comments are unjustifiable. 'If you have got a platform, a large social media platform, then you have also got a responsibility. 'I think it is deeply irresponsible, I think everyone should be appealing for calm. 'Use of language such as a 'civil war' is in no way acceptable. We are seeing police officers being seriously injured, buildings set alight, and so I really do think that everyone who has a platform should be exercising their power responsibly.' The clash came as Cabinet ministers blamed social media for allowing hate and fake news to be spread, leading to violent riots by the far-Right that have seen migrant hotels and mosques attacked in the wake of the Southport stabbings a week ago. False claims spread rapidly on X and other social media platforms that the suspect was a Muslim asylum seeker who arrived in the UK by boat a year previously. In fact the 17-year-old suspect was born in Cardiff and has no known links to Islam. Last night hundreds of far-Right activists and anti-racist protesters came face-to-face in Plymouth, where beer bottles, flares and a crutch were flung through the air, leaving police officers injured. And in Birmingham a Sky News van was attacked by a knife-wielding man after members of the Muslim community gathered amid claims far-Right groups would target the Small Heath area. Police have also been warned of alleged plans by far-Right groups to hit dozens of immigration targets across Britain on Wednesday night. Violence erupted again in Belfast last night amid ongoing rioting around the UK The clash came as Cabinet ministers blamed social media for allowing hate and fake news to be spread, leading to violent rioting by the far-Right that have seen migrant hotels and mosques attacked in the wake of the Southport stabbings a week ago. Pictured: Far-right protesters in Plymouth on Monday night Police were out in force and detained far-right protesters in Plymouth on Monday night The violence has seen damage to homes, businesses, hotels and even a library Ministers have said X has helped stoke online hate and refused to delete racist comments while allowing controversial activists such as Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate back on the platform. Pictured: Protesters in Plymouth Home Secretary Yvette Cooper yesterday said social media has put 'rocket boosters' under such groups. Health Secretary Wes Streeting warned that the spread of disinformation online is 'an existential threat to democracy'. He told the Edinburgh Fringe festival: 'We've got to wake up, not just as Britain but as democracies collectively, to what is actually a threat to our democracy, to our national security, to trust in politics, which is already kind of rock bottom anyway.' And Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: 'Responsibility for harmful social media content principally rests with the individuals and groups who create it. 'But it is undeniable that social media has provided a platform for this hate.' BIRMINGHAM: Men gesture to the camera as they stand on a roundabout amid rumours of a far-right gathering PLYMOUTH: Police form a barrier separating protesters in the city as tensions simmer PLYMOUTH: A man yells at counter-protesters as riot police separate the groups to avoid conflict PLYMOUTH: An anti-immigration protester clashes with anti-racism protesters in Plymouth tonight PLYMOUTH: A man faces an anti-racism protester during tense stand-offs in Plymouth SOUTHPORT: In contrast to riots across the country, locals turned out in Southport to lay flowers and teddies and blow bubbles He held individual meetings with bosses from US-based X, Facebook, Google and TikTok yesterday to make clear their responsibility to 'stop the spread of hateful misinformation and incitement'. No 10 said action taken by the firms so far has not gone far enough. 'There is more that they can and should be doing,' Sir Keir's spokesman said. HUDDERSFIELD: Shops in Huddersfield closed early as claims of a planned protest in the town spread on social media PLYMOUTH: A man is handcuffed and led away by a police officer PLYMOUTH: Police detain a protester as earlier clashes began to turn ugly BIRMINGHAM: Pubgoers screamed as protesters faced off against a man outside - before he was kicked to the floor BIRMINGHAM: Some protesters donned masks to stand on the roundabout - as many have in the riots seen in recent days BIRMINGHAM: Young men, some in masks, gathered outside a McDonald's in Bordesley Green, Birmingham amid rumours of a far-right gathering After the first emergency Cobra meeting about the riots, Downing Street also put online agitators on notice that they will be brought to justice alongside the rioters themselves. 'Anyone who is guilty of criminal behaviour online, anyone who is whipping up violence online, will face the full force of law.' The landmark Online Safety Act passed by the previous government will mean tech giants face multi-million pound fines if they fail to protect users from illegal content such as messages provoking hatred, disorder or violence. But the duties on the firms will not come into force for several months, as regulator Ofcom is still consulting on its codes of practice and guidance. However, the watchdog said platforms can act now rather than waiting for the law to come into force. X has been accused of refusing to delete racist comments while allowing controversial activists such as Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate back on the platform. The false claim that a Muslim asylum seeker was the suspect in the Southport stabbings was first made on X by a British woman before going viral when it was spread by Russia-linked fake news website Channel3 Now. And, as the Mail revealed, English Defence League founder Mr Robinson was stoking the race riots with a series of video rants on X while he was on holiday in Cyprus. But Mr Musk himself has made at least ten comments about the riots mostly replying to other users and thereby massively increasing their reach. Mr Musk used his X social media site, formerly known as Twitter, on Sunday to reply to a post that blamed 'mass migration and open borders' for unrest in the UK After a prominent account posted a video of rioters setting off fireworks at police and a Right-wing commentator blamed mass migration, Mr Musk replied: 'Civil war is inevitable.' Asked about the remark, Sir Keir's spokesman said: 'There's no justification for comments like that. 'And what we've seen is organised violent thuggery that has no place on our streets or online.' Yesterday Sir Keir posted a video condemning the violence and warning that criminal justice will be 'ramped up'. He added: 'We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities.' In response, Mr Musk wrote, in a comment that received 70,000 likes and 12,000 reposts in three hours: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on communities?' The X owner also agreed that UK police 'seem one-sided' in response to a cartoon accusing officers of going soft on violent Islamists. And he added: 'If incompatible cultures are brought together without assimilation, conflict is inevitable.' Expert on online disinformation Dr Marc Owen Jones said: 'Musk is definitely fanning the flames he is clearly contributing to the problem.' X did not respond to requests to comment. The parents of a 19-month-old boy who died after being wrongly discharged from hospital have sobbed in court as a coroner found his death was preventable. The Souvatzis family were holidaying in Victoria's north-east on December 29, 2021, when Noah developed a high fever and started vomiting. His parents Ben and Steph took him to an urgent care centre in town, with a nurse at the Alpine Health facility noting symptoms of lethargy and increased heart rate. Noah was taken to the Wangaratta Hospital on the nurse's advice, where doctor Paul Bumford diagnosed him with gastro and discharged him three hours later despite his continued vomiting. Noah's condition worsened so his parents took him to another medical centre in Benalla a couple of hours later, with Noah then taken by road ambulance back to Wangaratta Hospital. The young boy suffered seizures on the drive there and CT scans showed signs of meningitis so Noah was flown to Melbourne's Royal Children's Hospital in the early hours of December 30. At 3.11pm that day, Noah was declared brain dead and he died the following morning. Coroner Katherine Lorenz on Tuesday found Noah's tragic death was preventable and he should not have been discharged from Wangaratta Hospital in the first place. Noah Souvatsis (pictured) was holidaying with his parents when he developed a high fever and vomiting Noah's parents, Ben and Steph Souvatzis (pictured leaving the coroner's court on Tuesday) cried when the findings were handed down. The coroner commended the Souvatzis family for their courage in pursuing an inquest 'It was a clear failure of Wangaratta Hospital's duty of care to Noah,' Ms Lorenz said. Ben and Steph Souvatzis sobbed in the Coroners Court as the findings were handed down. Ms Lorenz noted Dr Bumford was on his first shift at the hospital and in the middle of an induction session when he went to assess Noah. He was meant to be second-in-charge at the emergency department but was not experienced enough for the role, the coroner found. The more experienced senior doctor Doug Devereux should have assessed Noah or at least examined his medical records before allowing him to be discharged, Ms Lorenz said. But Dr Devereux gave Noah 'no more than a glance' even though photos from the day show Noah was clearly very unwell and not alert, the coroner said. Dr Bumford conceded during the inquest that he misdiagnosed Noah and the coroner found the toddler might have survived if he was given antibiotics at his first hospital presentation. Ms Lorenz also found Noah's outcome might have been different if the doctors listened to Ben and Steph Souvatzis when they raised concerns about their son's condition. 'Parents know their children best,' she said. Coroner Katherine Lorenz found the 19-month-old's death was preventable (pictured, the Souvatzis family) The coroner said 'parents know their children best' and that Noah's tragic outcome might have been different if the doctors listened to his parents' concerns (pictured Noah Souvatzis) The coroner recommended the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care and Safer Care for Kids consider advising doctors to ask and note parental concerns when routinely checking a child patient's vital signs. Ms Lorenz commended the Souvatzis family for their courage in pursuing an inquest in the face of a heartbreaking and life-altering tragedy. The couple did not speak to reporters but made a statement through their lawyer in court, thanking the coroner for listening to them after years of not being heard. A Northeast Health Wangaratta spokeswoman said the hospital's thoughts and condolences continued to be with the Souvatzis family. 'NHW accepts that Noah did not receive the care he should have, something that rightly weighs very heavily on us as a health service,' the statement to AAP read. 'We thank the coroner for their findings, which we will now review and we are committed to implementing any further improvements.' A barricade and sniper positions had been set up at a remote Queensland property months before two police officers were shot dead in an ambush, a coroner has heard. Constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow were killed after arriving with two other officers at the Wieambilla property, west of Brisbane, in December 2022 attempting to serve an arrest warrant for Nathaniel Train. Six hours later, Gareth Train, his wife Stacey and his brother Nathaniel were fatally shot by police Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) members. Detective Senior Sergeant Nathan McCormack described the Trains' measures to repel police. SERT officers arrived following the deaths of the two constables and neighbour Alan Dare, discovering the Trains had barricaded the home. Detective Senior Sergeant Nathan McCormack told Brisbane Coroners Court on Tuesday that three firing positions had been set up on the property which featured 100 acres of bushland. Mirrors were placed along the driveway, with SERT members complaining that reflections hampered their vision as they drove toward the home at night, Det Sen Sgt McCormack said. A log and metal barricade had been placed on the driveway about 100m from the house, stalling the heavily armed police BearCat vehicle that then came under fire. Constable Rachel McCrow, 29 (pictured) was killed during the shootings at Wieambilla, west of Brisbane in December, 2022 Constable Matthew Arnold, 26, (pictured) was killed after arriving with two other officers at the Wieambilla property in December 2022, attempting to serve an arrest warrant for Nathaniel Train Det Sen Sgt McCormack - the lead investigator into the Trains' deaths - said satellite imagery of the Wieambilla property showed the barricade and firing locations were already in place in October 2022 - two months before the incident. Gareth and Stacey Train had bought the property back in 2015, the inquest was told. Det Sen Sgt McCormack told the five-week inquest into the shootings that other measures had been taken by the Trains to provide a tactical advantage during the police raid. Fires had been lit in a horseshoe shape around the house with cars also strategically parked. Nathaniel Train at one stage was bunkered down beside the house behind an L-shaped barricade that comprised of two hardwood 'extremely bullet resistant' logs, the coroner heard. Satellite imagery showed the Wieambilla property had barricades set up weeks before the incident. The property's remote location also created obstacles. A log and metal barricade had been placed on the driveway about 100m from the house, stalling the heavily armed police BearCat vehicle that then came under fire Mobile network problems in the Wieambilla area ensured that police helicopters - SERT's 'eyes in the sky' - were unable to stream footage of the shooters. Instead screenshots of TV monitors were sent via the police computer system to SERT members on the ground to help locate the Trains. Det Sen Sgt McCormack said negotiators had tried to contact the Trains on their mobile phones on the night before they tried to communicate via the BearCat's loudspeaker. 'The only communication was that YouTube video 'don't be afraid',' he told the inquest. 'I never observed any actions by Gareth, Stacey or Nathaniel in a surrendering manner or any attempts to communicate with SERT operatives.' Gareth and Stacey Train recorded the YouTube video near the house on the night of the incident, calling police 'devils and demons'. All three Trains were later fatally shot by police within minutes of each other. Andrew O'Keefe appeared upbeat outside court on Tuesday, even joking with journalists that he 'can't stay away from the place'. It was perhaps no wonder the former Deal or No Deal host was in a good mood as he had just avoided a criminal conviction for being caught driving with a suspended licence at Sydney's Downing Centre local court. But the troubled ex-TV star cut a forlorn figure after the cameras stopped rolling. O'Keefe, 52, appeared downcast as he stopped for a rest on a stone bench in a park in Paddington in the city's Eastern Suburbs. The former Chase Australia host, who was wearing a checked turquoise suit paired with a tie and socks in differing shades of blue, dabbed at his sweaty brow with a handkerchief. The fallen star sipped on a fizzy Lucozade as he stared off into the distance. At one point, he appeared to spit dejectedly into the grass at his feet. It was a far cry from his heights as host of shows like Weekend Sunrise and The Rich List. Andrew O'Keefe initially appeared upbeat outside court on Tuesday after recording a small court win. But the troubled ex-TV star cut a forlorn figure after the cameras stopped rolling O'Keefe, 52, appeared downcast as he stopped for a rest on a stone bench in a park in Paddington in the city's Eastern Suburbs The former Chase Australia host, who was wearing a checked turquiose suit pared with a tie and socks in differing shades of blue, dabbed at his sweaty brow with a handkerchief O'Keefe represented himself in court on Tuesday where he successfully convinced the magistrate that he was on his way to have his licence reinstated when police pulled him over on June 20 and did not believe he was breaking the law. He told reporters he'd been dealing with 'a reasonable magistrate, which is always good'. Despite his court win, Magistrate Michael Allen noted O'Keefe's well-documented criminal history, including convictions for domestic violence and drug possession, which he is currently appealing. 'The sad reality is you're no stranger to this place, albeit for more serious offending'.' Mr Allen told him. 'It is serious that at the time of this more minor offence you were subject to conditional liberty, and that is a factor I'm obliged to take into account.' Judge Allen did not convict O'Keefe of the offence, and instead sentenced him to a 12-month conditional release order, a form of conditional liberty. The fallen star sipped on a fizzy Lucozade as he stared off into the distance At one point, he appeared to spit dejectedly into the grass at his feet Asked if he thought his career was on the turn, O'Keefe told reporters: Well, I hope so, there's a bit to go but well find out shortly. 'Ill see you (at court) again tomorrow,' he said. He faces charges of driving while suspended and of intimidation following an unrelated incident last month. O'Keefe is yet to enter any pleas but will also reappear before the court on August 28 to learn his fate after appealing a string of DV and drug-related offences. Police officers stopped the 52-year-old on Cranbrook Road in Sydney's affluent suburb of Bellevue Hill at 11.45am on Sunday 28 July after he allegedly appeared 'drug-affected' behind the wheel of a Mercedes sedan. He returned a positive roadside test and officers discovered an ice pipe in his jacket pocket. O'Keefe denied it was his, and Daily Mail Australia does not suggest otherwise. Andrew O'Keefe appeared upbeat outside court on Tuesday, even joking with journalists that he 'can't stay away from the place' But he still has many legal woes to overcome The former quiz show king's fall from grace and very public battle with addiction - which has seen him go into rehabilitation more than ten times - is a tale all too depressingly familiar to Andrea Simmons. The former millionaire, who lost her family, her wealth and her health to meth addiction before beating it and founding a recovery program, said she wanted to offer O'Keefe help. 'I would love the opportunity to talk with Andrew, to give it a shot because I have a high success rate of being able to cut through the mess,' Ms Simmons told Daily Mail Australia. 'I would love to see him restored. I honestly hate seeing people fall from glory like that. I know how to fight that fight and I feel like I can help him.' Ms Simmons likened O'Keefe to AFL star Ben Cousins who overcame his own very public battles with addiction and brushes with the law to land a spot presenting with Channel Seven. The former quiz show king's fall from grace and very public battle with addiction is a tale all too depressingly familiar to Andrea Simmons, who has called for him to reach out and seek help Ms Simmons (pictured) lost everything to ice addiction and was reduced to a petty thief who scavenged discarded cigarette butts. But she overcame it - and she believes O'Keefe can too The campaigner, who dedicates all of her time to teaching in schools, youth detention centres and prisons to warn youngsters of the dangers of addiction, said she knew O'Keefe was 'hurting'. 'Being in the limelight for things like drugs and being caught by the police, having court cases, I'm sure he's hurting,' she said. 'He's suffering from loss of family, embarrassment, depression. I know the journey and it doesn't have to be like that.' Simmons still believes O'Keefe can find redemption from his troubles. 'The road back after falling from grace like Andrew has is extremely difficult,' Ms Simmons said. 'You're fighting your own demons internally. Feeling like a failure, asking, "Who am I? What did I do?" I've given drugs to women with kids. Where are they now?' But Ms Simmons said the only way to recovery was to reserve judgement. 'Everybody can fall off their perch tomorrow in the blink of an eye,' she said. 'Who are we to judge? Shouldn't we be helping one another get up again? 'I really want to go and sit with Andrew and reflect to him who he really is. 'He's somebody that has had a beautiful career. He's somebody that has impacted so many lives and he can get that back. Just because he's made a mistake doesn't mean that he failed. 'He can get back up on top of the horse.' O'Keefe declined to comment. A hate crime charity has urged Muslims to stay at home and 'not be baited by far-right thugs' who are bringing chaos to the streets of Britain. Tell Mama, a charity where people can report anti-Muslim hate incidents, said on social media that the community should stay at home and 'cherish their loved ones'. This comes after hundreds of masked Asian men turned out to counter a rumoured far-right gathering in Birmingham yesterday, as police revealed they are now probing assault, criminal damage and attacks on cars - but that the far-right mob never materialised. The UK has been struck by a week of violence and disorder ignited after the horror Southport stabbings and fueled on by the spread of misinformation online. Tell Mama, a charity where people can report anti-Muslim hate incidents, has taken to social media to plead with the community to stay at home and cherish their loved ones Crowds gather at Bordesley Green McDonald's after rumours shared on social media of a possible far-right protest in the area Last night hundreds of far-Right activists and anti-racist protesters came face-to-face in Plymouth, where beer bottles, flares and a crutch were flung through the air, leaving police officers injured This follows a week of violence and disorder across the UK ignited in the wake of the horror Southport stabbings, where three little girls were murdered and fueled on by the spread of misinformation online. Pictured: Rotherham protests last week In a post on X the charity wrote: 'We urge all people, especially Muslims at this time, not to take the bait of the far right thugs. 'Do not respond to call that 'they are coming'. Stay at home, cherish your loved ones.' In Birmingham scores of Muslims gathered near a mosque after rumours of a far-right gathering spread online. Some of those who had travelled to the area were filmed attacking a pub, the Clumsy Swan, while a Sky News van was also attacked by a knife-wielding man. During the evening several vehicles and a pub, The Clumsy Swan in Yardley, were attacked by a group of Muslim youths, who broke away from the main demonstration and were wearing masks and carrying weapons. While in Plymouth last night hundreds of far-Right activists and anti-racist protesters came face-to-face, where beer bottles, flares and a crutch were flung through the air, leaving police officers injured. Police have also been warned of alleged plans by far-Right groups to hit dozens of immigration targets across Britain on Wednesday night. A list of 39 immigration centres, services and solicitors' firms were posted on social media by a group linked to the disturbances in Southport last week. The group, with 13,000 followers, encouraged supporters to 'mask up' and 'spread this as far and wide as you can'. The anonymous user who posted the addresses said they should be targeted simultaneously on Wednesday. BIRMINGHAM: Some protesters donned masks to stand on the roundabout - as many have in the riots seen in recent days BIRMINGHAM: Young men, some in masks, gathered outside a McDonald's in Bordesley Green, Birmingham amid rumours of a far-right gathering After the first emergency Cobra meeting on Monday about the riots, Downing Street also put online agitators on notice that they will be brought to justice alongside the rioters themselves. 'Anyone who is guilty of criminal behaviour online, anyone who is whipping up violence online, will face the full force of law.' The landmark Online Safety Act passed by the previous government will mean tech giants face multi-million pound fines if they fail to protect users from illegal content such as messages provoking hatred, disorder or violence. The false claim that a Muslim asylum seeker was the suspect in the Southport stabbings was first made on X by a British woman before going viral when it was spread by Russia-linked fake news website Channel3 Now. This came after Tommy Robinson posted a video of a confrontation in Stoke and claimed two protesters had been stabbed 'by Muslims'. The post was viewed two million times on X. Two hours later, Staffordshire Police confirmed the information was false. Those injured were hit by something thrown by their own side. Actor Laurence Fox has also shared a string of false claims. On Friday night, he posted a list of dozens of acts of violence he alleged had been committed by immigrants under the caption: 'Anyone else had enough?' Among them was the claim that a 'woman [was] beaten to death by two Somalis while walking her dog' understood to have been a reference to last month's murder of Anita Rose, 57, in Brantham, Suffolk. Three people have been arrested in connection with the murder, but Suffolk Police last night confirmed Fox's tweet was not correct. A scathing inspection of scandal-hit HMP Wandsworth has revealed 'deeply shocking chaos', stemming from a sustained decline that happened 'in plain view of leaders'. The southwest London jail, from which a terror suspect escaped and where a prison officer was filmed having sex with an inmate, will receive a 100million package over five years, and extra staff, to help fund improvements. It follows an unannounced spot check in May by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Prisons (HMIP), which issued an immediate demand for urgent improvement at what the government calls 'one of the most troubled prisons in the country'. Prison staff displayed an 'inability to account for prisoners during the working day', despite an investment of almost 900,000 since Daniel Khalife's alleged escape in September 2023, the highly critical (HMIP) report found. Khalife is accused of fleeing custody while being held on remand over spy charges. He allegedly strapped himself underneath a food delivery lorry and was arrested a few days later. The former soldier denies all the charges against him and is due to stand trial in October. A scathing inspection of scandal-hit HMP Wandsworth (pictured) has revealed a 'deeply shocking chaos' Daniel Khalife allegedly escaped from HMP Wandsworth in September. He is due to stand trial in October Since the inspection May, HMP Wandsworth has been at the centre of a police investigation into a married prison officer who was filmed having sex with an inmate Since the inspection in May, the prison has also been at the centre of a police investigation into a married prison officer who was filmed having sex with an inmate. Linda De Sousa Abreu, 30, pleaded guilty to misconduct in a public office at a hearing at Isleworth Crown Court last Monday. Last week, MailOnline revealed how she only agreed to have sex with serial burglar Linton Weirich in his cell because she 'was being blackmailed by a prisoner who threatened to expose her amateur porn career'. Close friend Hayley, who only wanted to give her first name, told MailOnline that the circumstances surrounding the incident will become public when De Sousa returns to court for sentencing in November. She said: 'There's a lot more to this story than people think. Some of the prisoners had got hold of Linda's personal details. 'They knew her address, her husband's name and that she had an OnlyFans account. She was put under a lot of pressure and there was a lot of coercion involved.' The encounter on June 27 was filmed by another inmate and went viral on social media. MailOnline later revealed that De Sousa Abreu has appeared on TV swinging programs and has an OnlyFans account. She was subsequently identified by HMP Wandsworth staff and was arrested by the Metropolitan Police at Heathrow Airport attempting to fly to Madrid. Linda De Sousa Abreu (pictured), 30, pleaded guilty to misconduct in a public office at a hearing at Isleworth Crown Court last Monday The report, published on Tuesday, noted that HMP Wandsworth had come to be 'symbolic of the problems that characterise what is worst about the English prison system'. HMIP issued an Urgent Notification in May after a 'catastrophic inspection' found alarmingly high rates of self-harm, dangerous levels of violence and nearly 50 per cent of prisoners taking drugs. The report concluded that HMP Wandsworth was 'not safe' and 10 self-inflicted deaths had occurred since the last inspection, with a 'high and rising' rate of self-harm. The inspection, which took place from April 22 to May 2, found that the prison was 'severely overcrowded' with 80 per cent of men sharing cells designed to hold one person. At the time of the inspection, the prison held 1,521 men, despite HMP Wandsworth having a baseline operational capacity of 979 men. Around three quarters of men reported spending more than 22 hours a day in 'appalling conditions' in their cells, the report noted. Inspectors carrying out two random roll checks were unable to verify this because 'record keeping was so poor', with staff unable to account for where prisoners on their wings were. The report also found that more than half of men said it was easy to get drugs and the smell of cannabis was 'ubiquitous'. Prison staff displayed an 'inability to account for prisoners during the working day', despite an investment of almost 900,000 since Daniel Khalife's (pictured) alleged escape in September 2023 It concluded that 'inexperience across every grade of operational staff' was preventing them from 'bringing about much needed change'. HM Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor said: 'The level of chaos we found at Wandsworth was deeply shocking. 'The prison population crisis has undoubtedly compounded the pressures on the jail, but the appalling conditions at Wandsworth did not appear overnight and are the result of sustained decline permitted to happen in plain view of leaders in the jail, HM Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS) and the MoJ whose own systems clearly identified the prison as struggling.' Mr Taylor added: 'There was a degree of despondency amongst prisoners at Wandsworth that I have not come across in my time as Chief Inspector. 'Many well-meaning and hard-working leaders and staff persevered at Wandsworth, but they were often fighting against a tide of cost-cutting, intractable problems that require comprehensive, long term solutions. 'For this troubled prison to begin to recover, Wandsworth needs permanent experienced leaders at all levels who are invested in the long-term future of the prison to improve security, safety and guide their less experienced colleagues.' The MoJ said other measures it was taking to bolster prison security and safety included the deployment of specialist security and drug staff and the introduction of new leadership. It added that advanced violence reduction training sessions would be made available to staff, as well as 'regular beefed-up drug searches' and improved access to rehabilitative services. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: 'This is the reality of a prison system in crisis. Cells are overcrowded, infrastructure is crumbling and our hard-working prison staff are at risk of violence and harm. 'Our staff deserve better and we are taking immediate action at HMP Wandsworth to do what is necessary to protect the public, lock up dangerous offenders and make prisons safe for the brave staff who work there.' Andrea Coomber KC, chief executive of the Howard League for Penal Reform, said it was 'hard to remember a report as scathing, emphatic, and utterly devastating' as 'today's appraisal of the chaos in Wandsworth'. Ms Coomber added: 'The root cause is the fact that Wandsworth is one of the most overcrowded jails in the country - with room for fewer than 1,000 men, while being asked to hold more than 1,500. 'But this report also lifts the lid on a shocking failure of leadership and culture. It underlines the need for a radical overhaul and work towards a more humane and effective response to crime.' Pia Sinha, chief executive of the Prison Reform Trust, said HMP Wandsworth was 'emblematic of a system that has been running on fumes for many years, through our overuse of prison and chronic underinvestment in the prisons estate'. The chief executive of the social justice charity Nacro, Campbell Robb, said the report highlighted alarming failings 'from dangerous levels of overcrowding, to soaring rates of violence and squalid conditions reminiscent of a Victorian workhouse'. Jon Jacobo was charged with one count of rape, one count of oral copulation by force, one count of sexual battery by restraint and one count of domestic violence. Constanza Hevia H./Special to the Chronicle 2020 UPDATE: Jon Jacobo pleads not guilty to rape charge Jon Jacobo, a former rising political star in San Francisco, has been charged with rape and other felonies in connection with the sexual assault of a woman who publicly accused him of attacking her at his home in the Mission District in 2021. The San Francisco district attorneys office filed charges Monday against Jacobo, 35. He is charged with one count of rape, one count of oral copulation by force, one count of sexual battery by restraint and one count of domestic violence. He was booked into San Francisco County Jail shortly before 4 p.m. Monday, and will be held on a $2 million bail, according to jail records. Jacobo was scheduled to be arraigned Tuesday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Prosecutors did not name the victim but the victims spokesperson, Ivy Lee, said the charges that were filed are related to the public accusations made by Sasha Perigo, a housing rights advocate. Lee is the director of San Franciscos Office for Victims Rights and is acting as a media representative on behalf of Perigo and other women who have accused Jacobo. The DAs office said Jacobo raped a woman he was previously in a relationship with. The victim ended the intimate relationship and made it clear to Mr. Jacobo that she was only interested in a platonic friendship, prosecutors said in a statement. Jacobo sexually assaulted the victim in his residence after she had explicitly communicated to him that she did not want any sexual contact, which he stated he understood, prosecutors said. The arrest comes three years after Perigo publicly accused Jacobo of raping her at his Mission District apartment in April 2021. Jacobo said at the time that his memory of these events is different than her memory. I believed then, as I do now, that our relationship was completely consensual. Three other unnamed women filed police reports against Jacobo since then, alleging crimes including domestic violence and sexual assault, according to a report published in the San Francisco Standard in April. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Perigo and two unnamed survivors released a statement on Monday, calling Jacobos arrest an important step in addressing the injuries and harm caused to us. But the group also noted that the arrest came only after years of working with the criminal justice system, and after multiple accusers came forward with their claims. Predators are often able to escape meaningful accountability when it comes to violence and abuse both through the criminal legal system and outside of it, Perigo and the others said in a statement. Especially those who have power and influence whether that is wealth, political standing, social stature, knowledge of the legal system, friends and colleagues who enable this exemption from consequences. Following the Standards report in April, Jacobo resigned from his leadership position at TODCO Group, a San Francisco-based affordable housing nonprofit. Jacobo was also a member of the Mission District nonprofit Calle 24 board of directors until he resigned from that post in April as well. San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said in a statement that the departments special victims unit had been working tirelessly on the investigation, Advertisement Article continues below this ad Tensions are high after suspected Israeli assassination of Hamas leader in Iran US President Joe Biden held crisis talks on Monday on a potential Iranian counterattack on Israel as his administration said it was working around the clock to avoid all-out war in the Middle East. Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken are engaged in frantic diplomacy to try to ease tensions sparked by a suspected Israeli strike that killed Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week. Israeli officials have not claimed responsibility, but Iran has vowed to seek retribution, stoking fears that violence in the Middle East could spiral out of control. Those fears grew yesterday after Tehran claimed that it has the 'legal right' to respond to Haniyeh's assassination, with foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani telling a news conference: 'No one has the right to doubt Iran's legal right to punish the Zionist regime.' In a desperate bid to ease tensions, Biden yesterday called King Abdullah II of Jordan, who helped down Iranian drones and missiles in an earlier showdown in April, while Blinken called top officials in Qatar and Egypt, the key intermediaries seeking a ceasefire in the 10-month Israel-Hamas war. 'We are engaged in intense diplomacy, pretty much around the clock, with a very simple message - all parties must refrain from escalation,' Blinken said after joining other top officials in a White House meeting. 'It's also critical that we break this cycle by reaching a ceasefire in Gaza,' said Blinken, who has also spoken since Sunday with G7 counterparts and Iraq's prime minister. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei leads a prayer over the coffins of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and his bodyguard who were killed in an assassination blamed on Israel People gather during a funeral procession for Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas and his bodyguard who were killed in an assassination in Tehran, Iran US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden arrive to the White House in Washington DC from Wilmington on August 5, 2024, for a security briefing on the developing situation in the Middle East President Biden and Vice President Harris are seen receiving briefing on the prospect of Iranian strikes at Israel on Aug 5, 2024 Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks during the 2024 Australia-US Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN) at the State Department in Washington, US, August 5, 2024 On Monday, multiple US personnel were injured in a rocket attack on a base in Iraq, adding to the already heightened regional tensions. Biden had been hoping in his final months in office to end the Gaza war and work on clinching a landmark deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Instead, he has boosted the US military presence in the Middle East in a show of strength to Iran. After staunchly backing Israel's war against Hamas, Biden has made clear his frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the killing of Haniyeh, who was involved in the ceasefire negotiations. Blinken, who has warned that Iran could strike soon, made a new pitch for Biden's ceasefire plan that would freeze fighting in Gaza and return hostages seized in the October 7 mega-attack on Israel by Hamas. A ceasefire 'will unlock possibilities for more enduring calm, not only in Gaza itself, but in other areas where the conflict could spread,' Blinken said as he met Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. In a veiled allusion to US frustrations, Blinken said, 'What it really comes down to, really, is all parties finding ways to come to an agreement, not look for reasons to delay or to say no.' 'It is urgent that all parties make the right choices in the hours and days ahead,' he said. Biden met in the White House's heavily secured Situation Room with his national security team including Vice President Kamala Harris. He flew to the White House after a weekend home in Delaware, and after a kiss for First Lady Jill Biden, he headed straight into the Oval Office without commenting to reporters. People watch as the bodies of unidentified Palestinians are buried at a mass grave after the bodies were handed over by Israel, amid Israel-Hamas conflict, in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip August 5, 2024 People take part in a march called by Palestinian and Lebanese youth organisations in the southern Lebanese city of Saida, on August 5, 2024, to protest against the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh People attend funeral ceremony, held for Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Tehran, Iran on August 1, 2024 Iranians attend a funeral ceremony held for Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated on August 1, 2024 in Tehran, Iran A huge rocket attack on a base in Iraq wounded 'several' American soldiers on Monday, officials said, as tensions escalate and the US still expects an Iranian counterattack on Israel The White House said that Biden and the Jordanian king in their call 'discussed their efforts to de-escalate regional tensions, including through an immediate ceasefire and hostage release deal.' King Abdullah called for 'an immediate and permanent ceasefire to end the catastrophe in Gaza' and for 'ceasing all escalatory measures,' according to a readout by the Jordanian royal court. Iran fired directly at Israel in April, taking their long shadow war into the open following a strike on an Iranian diplomatic building in Syria. The United States helped intercept the drones and missiles, and damage was minimal. But Jordan - in a delicate position with its large Palestinian population and a peace deal with Israel - has insisted it does not want to be a battleground. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said that in April, 'we were able to chart a path that ultimately got us through that time without tipping into a wider war.' 'But every time you have one of these cycles of escalation, you have a risk of parties miscalculating, you have the risk of them taking actions that get out of hand,' Miller told reporters. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed to punish Israel following Haniyeh's assassination Rockets fired from southern Lebanon are intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome air defence system over the Upper Galilee region in northern Israel, on August 4, 2024 Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian (R) meeting with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu (L) in Tehran, Iran, 05 August 2024. Shoigu is in Tehran amid rising tension between Iran and Israel Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian (R) meeting with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu (L) in Tehran, Iran, 05 August 2024 The suspected Israeli assassination of Hamas leader Haniyeh on Iranian soil has also pushed Tehran further towards Russia. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian - whose swearing-in ceremony was attended by Haniyeh hours before his death - told a senior ally of Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin on Monday that Tehran was determined to expand relations with its 'strategic partner Russia'. Sergei Shoigu, the secretary of Russia's security council and former defence minister, met Iran's president and top security officials as the Islamic Republic weighs its response to the killing of a Hamas leader. 'Russia is among the countries that have stood by the Iranian nation during difficult times,' Pezeshkian told Shoigu in a meeting, Iranian state media reported. The president said that shared positions between Iran and Russia 'in promoting a multipolar world will certainly lead to greater global security and peace'. Russia is one of many countries that condemned Haniyeh's assassination and called on all parties to refrain from steps that could tip the Middle East into a wider regional war. In further comments reported during the meeting with Shoigu, Pezeshkian said Israel's 'criminal actions' in Gaza and the assassination of Haniyeh 'are clear examples of the violation of all international laws and regulations'. Though Putin has yet to comment in public on the recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East, senior Russian officials have said that those behind the killing of Haniyeh were seeking to scuttle any hope of peace in the Middle East and to draw the United States into military action. Iran backs Hamas, which is at war with Israel in Gaza, and also the Lebanese group Hezbollah, whose senior military commander Fuad Shukr was killed in an Israeli strike on Beirut last week. Man has not yet entered pleas to multiple charges A missing young girl has been found naked in a home where she was allegedly drugged and raped. A 48-year-old man was arrested after the girl was allegedly discovered by police at a home in Redland Bay, near Brisbane, on Sunday. He was later charged with rape, indecent treatment of a child under 16 and administering methamphetamine for the purpose of a sexual act. The man appeared on Cleveland Magistrates Court on Tuesday, The court heard that he needs to contact his representatives at Hannay Lawyers before entering a plea, the Courier-Mail reported. Police spent Tuesday forensically examining the home, which remains a crime scene. 'Police need to complete the crime scene,' police prosecutor Angela Tetley told the court. 'Swabs from both the child and the defendant have been taken.' A missing young girl has been found naked, drugged and raped in a house in the coastal town of Redland Bay, Queensland, 38km south-east of Brisbane. Stock image Police forensically examined the property on Tuesday after the child was allegedly discovered by officers at the man's Rocky Passage Road (pictured) home Sergeant Tetley added that 'there will be a lot more charges to come'. The matter was adjourned until next week for a bail application. The man remains in custody. He will also appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court later this month on unrelated drug possession charges. Theories abound about the meaning of Banksy's latest artwork. Crowds have already flocked to Kew Bridge in west London, the site of the elusive guerilla artist's latest piece, which appeared on the side of a building this week. It features the silhouette of a goat balancing on top of some masonry, looking down towards the floor as debris crumbles from the precipice - all under the apparent gaze of a CCTV camera positioned to the right. Banksy confirmed he was responsible in his customary, nebulous way - by posting an image of it on his Instagram page, without any caption offering further explanation. It has again cleared the path for his legion of fans to openly proffer a range of suggestions about its meaning - some rooted in social and political commentary, while others are less serious. Several people said the artwork was symbolic of the plight of refugees and migrants in the UK. Banksy has revealed a new artwork featuring a goat perched on top of a wall in west London Employees move a CCTV camera back to its original position after Banksy adjusted it Fans take pictures of the new Banksy artwork - with several theories about its meaning A man appears to take a selfie with the Banksy goat, which has appeared on a wall in west London One fan wrote: 'Nowhere to seek safety, no privacy. 'Eyes of the world on you, you climbed into what you thought was a safe space, only to find you have no way out.' Another theorised: 'The goat represents the rebellious spirit of those feeling marginalised or oppressed, fighting against perceived injustices and systemic issues. It also symbolises the scapegoating of certain groups during times of social unrest. 'The CCTV camera highlights the increased surveillance and control measures implemented by the state in response to the riots. It symbolises the government's attempt to maintain order and assert authority, reflecting the tension between state power and civil liberties. 'The goat's precarious position on the edge mirrors the fragile state of UK society, teetering on the brink of chaos due to the recent disturbances. 'This positioning suggests the limitations and vulnerabilities of both the protesters and the authorities, questioning how far individuals can push against societal constraints and how far the state can go in exerting control without worsening tensions. 'Overall, the artwork critiques the current social and political climate in the UK. It emphasises the conflict between the desire for change and the state's efforts to maintain order, urging a deeper consideration of the root causes of unrest and the balance between security and freedom. 'It calls for dialogue on addressing these issues while respecting individual rights and freedoms.' Another person, in an apparent reference to recent riots at asylum seeker hotels across the country, wrote: 'Like the poor families hiding in those hotels right now with their foundations getting destroyed.' Somebody else claimed the piece was a reference to societal short-sightedness: 'The camera is looking at the falling rocks, rather than what's causing them to fall. 'Goats are adapted to climbing on narrow ledges, so it isn't in danger, but the camera's view doesn't give the full picture. 'So I'd guess that it's referencing the need to understand that news needs context before forming an opinion.' Global conflict also featured in the discussion on Banksy's Instagram page. One fan wrote: 'My interpretation, it may be wrong. The endangered Palestinian Mountain Gazelle is the national animal of Palestine. 'The world is watching whilst it teeters on the edge. Limited time to save it.' And someone else claimed it might be a reference to climate change. She wrote: 'Humans are the unresponsive camera watching as all of nature is in peril. There is no where else for life (nature) to go. We did this. 'And yet we have removed ourselves from being present and responsible or empathetic. Thank you Banksy.' One person boldly suggested fans were over-thinking it, writing: 'Lots of comments questioning the meaning behind this it could be as simple as Banksy thought a Goat would look cool up there!!!' And another irreverently posted: 'Banksy is the GOAT' - an acronym ubiquitous in popular culture to mean 'greatest of all time.' Building on a similar theme, albeit with a more sober tone, one commenter wrote: 'My interpretation: The United Kingdom was once GOAT but now standing on the cliffhanger as the world watches.' The artwork is Banksy's first since a stunt at Glastonbury Festival in June in which an inflatable dinghy full of dummies dressed as migrants launched into the crowd, live on the BBC. It happened during a set by alternative chart-toppers Idles, who had led the crowd in a chant of 'f*** the king', which was also broadcast live on BBC Four as part of their coverage of the long-running music and arts festival in Somerset. Many fans at the Other Stage - traditionally billed as the alternative to the flagship Pyramid Stage - thought the inflatable life raft, carrying a number of seated dummies in high-visibility vests, was a prop for their politically charged headline set. The piece has already become something of a tourist attraction The artist confirmed he was responsible for the goat stencil on his Instagram page Banksy was responsible for a small boats stunt at Glastonbury Festival in Somerset in June In March, the artist created a tree mural near Finsbury Park in North London, which saw a tree cut back with green paint sprayed behind it to give the impression of foliage Banksy's work ' Love Is In The Bin' self-destructed in Sotheby's, London, in 2018 But a representative for Idles said that the boat was created by fellow Bristolian Banksy, and that the band were not aware of what had happened until after they came off stage. The demonstration was thought to have been a nod to Rishi Sunak's tough stance on tackling the small boats crisis. It was described by then-home secretary James Cleverly as 'trivialising' small boats crossings and 'vile', but the artist responded saying his reaction was 'a bit over the top'. The graffiti artist previously funded a migrant rescue ship, which was impounded in Italy last year after responding to distress calls in the Mediterranean. In March this year, another Banksy appeared overnight on the side of a building near Finsbury Park. It showed a splattering of green which has been painted behind a bare tree to look like foliage, with a stencil of a person holding what appears to be a pressure hose next to it. The site then attracted legions of Banksy fans to catch a glimpse at it. But within three days the mural was defaced with white paint. It prompted the local council to erect a metal security fence to protect it from further damage. The Mail on Sunday previously revealed Banksy to be Robin Gunningham, a middle-class artist who has repeatedly refused to confirm his identity. His reputation is founded on the popularity of his trademark stencil-style art in public spaces - including on walls in London, Brighton, Bristol and even on the West Bank barrier separating Israelis and Palestinians. He has dozens of celebrity collectors including Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and Christina Aguilera, and his work repeatedly sells for hundreds of thousands of pounds. He is also known for his headline-making stunts, such as leaving an inflatable doll dressed as a Guantanamo prisoner in Disneyland, California, and hanging a version of the Mona Lisa - but with a smiley face - in the Louvre, Paris. His artwork Girl With Balloon famously self-destructed in a Sotheby's London saleroom when it descended into a shredder in 2018. That piece was then renamed Love Is In The Bin, which in 2021 sold for 18.6 million, a record for Banksy's work. It's a long-held theory that flying is much cheaper than taking the train in Britain - and this is certainly often true when you compare ticket prices. But rail industry bosses have released a new study which they claim shows travelling by train can actually be up to 70 per cent cheaper on similar routes than taking the plane, when accounting for extra costs such as hold baggage and seat selection. They also said going by plane takes longer than by train door-to-door for four out of six domestic routes examined, and rail is up to 17 times greener than flying. The Rail Delivery Group (RDG) claimed trains are 250 cheaper than flights on the London to Manchester route, which has seven times more rail services than flights. The routes examined were London to Glasgow; London to Edinburgh; Manchester to London; Aberdeen to Manchester; London to Newcastle; and Edinburgh to Exeter. But there was no mention of long-running strike action that has crippled services in recent years; poor performance that saw cancellations in England and Wales rise 8 per cent in the past year; or average train fares increasing by 5 per cent in March. It comes as Government legislation designed to help nationalise train operation in the UK is now moving closer to becoming law after Labour won the election. The Rail Delivery Group study compared the cost of a city-to-city journey by rail and plane The RDG said rail travel offers better convenience and flexibility with more frequent departures and direct access to city centres, and is quicker than flying on four out of the six routes for total journey time including airport transfers and security checks. The study, issued last Friday, looked at the average costs of a fare between selected routes for a one-way trip departing on August 5 and a one-way trip returning on August 9, giving a total combined cost of both one-way trips. The London to Glasgow route came in at 171 for rail and 248 for plane including 196 on tickets and 52 on baggage and seat allocation. London to Edinburgh was 156 by rail or 260 by plane. Manchester to London was 91 by train and 341 to fly; London to Newcastle was 145 by rail and 384 by plane; Edinburgh to Exeter was 220 by rail and 297 by plane; and Aberdeen to Manchester was much closer at 224 for rail or 234 for plane. The RDG study also looked at the difference in total journey time between trains and planes The report claimed that the public are 'often told that flying domestically is faster, cheaper, and more convenient'. But the RDG described this as a 'myth amplified by quick comparisons that typically ignore the length of time security checks take at airports as well as ignoring add-on costs for luggage and seat selection'. The study said many comparisons do not consider the time it takes to get to and from the airport and 'forget that railway stations are in central convenient locations, while airports sit on the outskirts of our cities'. The RDG pointed out that journeys by air often involve trips to get to the airport from the city centre. It also said passengers need to consider the recommended time to be at the airport before the scheduled departure time, as well as the estimated 30 minutes to disembark, and the onward journey into the city centre. The number of direct services between the destinations is compared in this RDG graph It said that in total, this can add three and a half hours onto a journey. City centre to city centre flying was found to take longer on four of the six routes reviewed. The four routes quicker by train were London to Glasgow (15 minutes quicker by train); London to Edinburgh (20 minutes), London to Manchester (two hours and 24 minutes); and London to Newcastle (two hours and three minutes). However, Aberdeen to Manchester was 56 minutes faster by plane, Edinburgh to Exeter was two hours and 42 minutes quicker by plane. The RDG added that environmental considerations should also be noted claiming travelling by train for business between Edinburgh and London is 17 times greener by rail than by plane. The study said that in 2019, 3.4million people travelled between London and Edinburgh by air, which made it the second busiest air corridor in Europe producing 244,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. The RDG also compared the environmental impact of getting the train compared to flying Its data compared a business trip by plane and by train, suggesting London to Glasgow is seven times greener by train, London to Newcastle is 12 times greener and London to Manchester is nine times. The report said comparative plane and train carbon emissions data was unavailable for the Edinburgh to Exeter and Aberdeen to Manchester routes. In addition, the RDG pointed out that a Railcard would offer a third off train travel on each route, lowering London to Glasgow from 171 to 113; and London to Edinburgh from 156 to 103. Manchester to London falls from 91 to 60; Aberdeen to Manchester from 224 to 148; London to Newcastle from 145 to 96; and Edinburgh to Exeter from 220 to 145. The RDG also said that airport transfers were a significant cost for customers, although these were not included in its cost analysis in the report. London King's Cross station, from which trains run to Newcastle and Edinburgh, on July 19 Its research showed the average return fare of a minicab to the city centre was 122 to 228 for London Heathrow, 140 for Luton, 130 for Stansted, 113 for Gatwick and 75 to 85 for City. Elsewhere it was 55 to 70 for Manchester, 80 for Edinburgh, 71 for Glasgow, 60 for Newcastle and Exeter, and 40 to 50 for Aberdeen. The report concluded: 'For too long, the narrative has been that flying domestically is cheaper and faster. However, when you do a true cost comparison, rail travel is considerably cheaper. 'Rail travel offers a more affordable, sustainable, and convenient way to travel. Our research highlights the many advantages that rail travel offers to our customers when travelling within Britain. 'We have picked six domestic routes that offer both trains and flights to provide a fair comparison of costs, carbon emissions and availability of services.' The study advised the time spent waiting at airports for flights (London Stansted is pictured) And RDG chief executive Jacqueline Starr said: 'It's time to rethink domestic travel this summer. In a like-for-like comparison with air travel, taking the train is often cheaper, more sustainable and convenient way to travel with free baggage allowance and seat selection included in most fares. 'Make the most of summer by travelling on rail - experiencing real-life moments, from family holidays to catching up on the way to work. Rail connects us to these important moments safely, quickly, and comfortably.' The prices were taken between July 8 and 10 directly from rail and flight operators. The RDG said it had advisory input from the Birmingham Centre for Railway Research and Education at the University of Birmingham, which 'assisted with the development of the cost calculation methodology in this report'- but the insights given were based on the RDG's own analysis. The organisation also said its analysis noted that fares can 'vary depending on how far in advance the booking is made, the date chosen and the time of travel'. The study claimed trains are 250 cheaper than flight on the London to Manchester route, which has seven times more rail services than flights. Manchester Piccadilly station is pictured Patricia Yates, chief executive at VisitBritain/VisitEngland, said: 'Travelling by train is a cost effective and sustainable way to explore Britain this summer. 'Rail travel opens up iconic destinations and attractions to visitors with hidden gems and stunning scenery revealed along the way. 'The ease and convenience of hopping on a train means visitors can access less explored destinations and local businesses, in a relaxing and environmentally friendly way, encouraging visitors to discover more and stay longer, boosting local economies.' And Silviya Barrett from the Campaign for Better Transport said: 'Choosing to travel more sustainably whenever we can is one of the most effective things we can do to reduce our impact on the planet. 'This new report backs up our own research and shows that taking the train not only saves carbon emissions, it can also get you there quicker, save you the hassle of airport security and leave you more spending money in your pocket this summer.' Meanwhile a separate study by rail operator TransPennine Express (TPE) released today found 67 per cent of Brits are struggling to afford the price of a foreign holiday this year and are instead turning to UK getaways this August. The research by the firm found 25 per cent will now not be going on holiday abroad this year because of increased costs. Some 35 per cent said the price of flights to popular destinations have become too expensive and 20 per cent said it was the first time they have struggled to afford a holiday overseas. The top destination for UK holidays according to TPEs research will be the Lake District, with 38 per cent of Brits heading there this month, followed closely by York (19 per cent) and Edinburgh (19 per cent). Meghan Markle's half sister Samantha has launched a fresh legal fight to sue the Duchess for defamation, claiming she has portrayed her in a way that has left her unable to work. The 59-year-old is appealing against a court ruling rejecting her claim that Meghan made her out to be a 'lying, racist, fame-seeker'. Samantha is claiming her Duchess sister has destroyed her image 'publicly and on a global scale,' according to court documents 'She has made it so Samantha cannot work, or even enjoy the most mundane of activities, like going to the grocery store without harassment,' the document, obtained by The Sun, continues. But the case, which revolves around comments made during Prince Harry and Meghan's infamous 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey and in TV series Harry & Meghan in December 2022, was previously called to be dismissed. Samantha Markle (left) has launched a new legal fight to sue her Duchess sister Meghan Markle (right) for defamation. Pictured: The pair at Samantha's graduation in 2008 Samantha, 59, (pictured center) is appealing against a court ruling rejecting her claim that Meghan made her out to be a 'lying, racist, fame-seeker'. Pictured: Samantha Markle arriving at a Florida court on November 8 Samantha Markle claims that Meghan defamed her in her 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey In March, Florida Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell said that Samantha 'failed to identify any statements that could support a claim for defamation.' The suit was dismissed with prejudice, meaning that it could not simply be refiled, but Samantha's legal team were determined to overturn that decision. The documents, which were filed at a court in Florida, claim Samantha was portrayed as an individual 'who is out to harm Meghan and to capitalize on that harm caused'. Her lawyers are now arguing Judge Honeywell failed to take into account the implied defamation created by omitting facts. The March decision spared Meghan from a trial which was set to take place at the court in Tampa in November. Samantha has been seeking at least $75,000 for defamation and defamation by implication for Meghan suggesting to Oprah that she grew up as an only child. Meghan also said that Samantha only changed her name back to Markle after she began dating Harry. According to Samantha, Meghan made similar claims in the Netflix series and the allegations subjected her to 'humiliation, shame and hatred on a worldwide scale'. In her 58-page ruling, Judge Honeywell said that Meghan's statements could not be defamatory because they are 'substantially true based on judicially noticed evidence' or 'not capable of being considered defamatory.' Samantha had failed to 'plausibly allege that they are defamatory in the first place', the judge said. The judge noted that Meghan's comments about her childhood was her 'merely opining' that she did not have a close relationship with Samantha, her half sister with whom she shares a father. Judge Honeywell said that Samantha's claim that Meghan 'implied that (she) was a liar and a fame-seeker', was an 'improper mischaracterization' of what the Duchess said. Turning to Meghan's statement that Samantha changed her name from Rasmussen, her married name, back to Markle after the Duchess began dating Harry, the judge said that 'the gist was true'. A Judge dismissed Samantha Markle's (pictured) defamation suit against her sister Meghan in March Meghan Markle appeared on CBS News on Sunday alongside her husband Prince Harry She wrote: 'That Plaintiff used one last name and then the name Markle soon after reports of Defendant's relationship with Prince Harry were published is substantially true, based on the exhibits in the record, of which the Court has taken judicial notice.' Among the statements in Samantha's claim was one by Harry in the Netflix series in which he said: 'Perhaps the most troubling part of this is the number of British journalists interacting with and amplifying the hate and the lies'. But Judge Honeywell said: 'That this statement was included in the complaint is perplexing and suggests haste, a misunderstanding of the law, or a lack of diligence on the part of plaintiff's counsel. 'It is unclear how this statement could be defamatory towards Plaintiff, as it does not reference her'. In her conclusion, Judge Honeywell wrote: 'Plaintiff's claims will be dismissed with prejudice, as she has failed to identify any statements that could support a claim for defamation or defamation-by-implication by this point, her third try at amending her complaint, in either the book Finding Freedom, the Netflix series Harry & Meghan, or Defendant and her husband's hour-long televised CBS Interview'. Samantha had also planned to ask Kate Middleton for a witness statement before the Princess of Wales revealed she had cancer. But she had stressed that the Kate's 'cancer recovery is priority.' 'I think it's important everyone know that this was out there by my attorney before anyone was aware of her health challenges,' Samantha told former GB News host Dan Wootton. On March 18, Samantha's lawyer, Peter Ticktin, told Wootton during an episode of his Outspoken online talk show that he felt as though the princess would be able to provide a useful witness statement in the trial. 'I felt that Catherine might have some very important light to shed on what had occurred because obviously something is really really wrong between these two,' he said. Samantha has filed her new, and potentially final, appeal just two days after Meghan celebrated her 43rd birthday. Her lawyers are set to request an oral hearing but no date has yet been confirmed. They said: 'Oral argument is desired as the issues may require some clarification.' The fresh blow for the Duchess comes after she made an appearance on CBS News Sunday Morning as she opened up on her suicidal thoughts and feelings she was subjected to as a working royal. The Suits star first detailed such feelings in March 2021, when she told Oprah Winfrey she 'just didn't want to be alive anymore' because of abuse she was suffering online. This time , Markle told host Jane Pauley how she hope her candor will help youngsters around the world navigate similar feelings after surfing the web. A man kept as a slave for nearly 26 years by a millionaire traveller family will receive 352,000 in taxpayers' money after he successfully sued the government for denying him adequate compensation. The vulnerable man, referred to as Victim A, was beaten, given scraps of leftover food and forced to live in filthy conditions in a caravan on a travellers' site in Lincolnshire by the Rooney family. The 11-member gang were jailed in 2017 for exploiting a number of victims, who were often homeless people or men with learning disabilities. The Rooneys amassed a 4million fortune from their driveway business, and were ordered at a Proceeds of Crime hearing in 2019 to pay just 1million of it back, mostly to their victims. But Victim A, who was in his fifties, waited so long for compensation that his captors have now been released from prison. The court offered Victim A just 12,428 under the Proceeds of Crime Act, leading his family to sue the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), an agency of the Ministry of Justice. Seven years on, the man has successfully received 352,000 in government compensation funded by the taxpayer, which his sister said will pay for his round-the-clock care. Fifteen other men held as slaves alongside Victim A passed away before they could claim the same level of compensation. One of the labourers ended up dying without the knowledge of his family, who later discovered they missed his funeral. Victim A was held captive in 'truly shocking' conditions on the travellers' site in Lincolnshire, police said A caravan on the travellers' site which housed some of the victims held captive by the Rooney family In all, 18 men were forced to be slaves and live in terrible living conditions. They had little or no access to basics such as heating, water and toilets John and Bridget Rooney (pictured) are among the family members who were convicted Lawrence Rooney (left) and Gerald Rooney (right) were also convicted of offences following a series of linked trials relating to modern slavery Patrick Rooney (left) and Martin Rooney (right) were also convicted of the offences Victim A's sister said the lack of initial compensation meant her vulnerable brother could not pay for rehabilitation for injuries inflicted by his captors. The 11 gang members, who were convicted of fraud and slavery charges, enjoyed holidays to Barbados, cosmetic surgery and even shelled out on a Manchester United soccer school - earned off the backs of their workers. The slaves, aged 18 to 63, were freed after raids by Lincolnshire Police and the National Crime Agency were carried out in 2014. Some gang members also targeted four elderly home-owners, getting them to sign over properties into their names and selling three on for profit - one for 250,000. Members of the Rooney family would go looking for victims on the streets, hostels and shelters, offering work for food and accommodation. Martin Rooney Senior and Bridget Rooney were described as the 'patriarch and the matriarch' of the enterprise. Labourers were forced to live in shabby run-down caravans, or in stables next to kennels, with little or no access to basics such as heating, water and toilets. Some were forced to squat in woods behind their living areas, while electricity was 'dangerously' tapped from a nearby pylon. John Rooney (left) and Martin Rooney (right) were among the younger members of the slave gang Peter Doran (left), Martin Rooney (centre) and Patrick Rooney (right) were also part of the gang who forced homeless people into slavery The police said victims were 'poorly fed' and often went hungry while they lived in the caravans A filthy interior in one of the caravans which the slaves had to live in One of the caravans stayed in by the slaves shows a dirty litter box on the floor and a rubbish bag next to a visibly unwashed bed Building work being carried out on John Rooney's house Patrick Rooney's sitting room, complete with three rugs, a large sofa and family photos on the walls The inside of Patrick Rooney's home is markedly different from the conditions in which the slaves were kept Peter Doran (pictured) arrives at Nottingham Crown Court on September 7, 2017 Gerard Rooney (left) and Martin Rooney (right) arrive at Nottingham Crown Court on September 7, 2017 Patrick Rooney (pictured) arrives at Nottingham Crown Court on September 7, 2017 Gang member Bridget Rooney arrives at Nottingham Crown Court on September 7, 2017 In all, 18 men were forced to work at the sites or for the Rooneys' businesses, repairing properties and tarmacking drives. The police said victims were also 'poorly fed' and often went hungry - or were given the 'family's left-overs', even though they were worked for hours on hard, manual tasks. For the convicted gang-members, there were luxurious holidays to Australia, Egypt and Mexico, high-performance BMWs, spa days and cosmetic surgery. Lawyers said the CICA was 'not fit for purpose' after most of the men held captive died before they could claim adequate compensation. Solicitor Jamila Duncan-Bosu, from the Anti-trafficking and Exploitation Unit charity, said: 'CICA is not fit for purpose when it comes to victims of modern day slavery, despite it being incredibly common. 'Compensation is paramount for victims of trafficking, for rehabilitation and to help them rebuild their lives, to stop that cycle of exploitation.' Solicitor Liam Symonds, of the law firm Freshfields, who represented Victim A on a pro bono basis, said he hopes the case 'might be a platform for other survivors'. A Government spokesperson said: 'This was an awful crime and our thoughts remain with the affected individual and his family. 'The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority provides compensation to people who were injured as a result of a violent crime and has paid out over 165million to victims in 2023/24. 'We recognise that payment can never fully compensate for the injuries suffered but it can often help brave survivors move on with their lives.' Victim was told to 'dig your own grave' if he did not sign a bogus work contract One victim was kept a 'captive' by members of the Rooney family on a Lincolnshire traveller site and forced to work 12-hour days, seven-days-a-week for 26 years. In an emotional account of his life, the man's sister told how he was beaten with a rake when he overslept, had his teeth smashed with a concrete slab and had been left 'psychologically damaged' by his dreadful ordeal. Telling of her brother's ordeal at the gang's hands, the victim's sister said: 'He was asked to sign a contract by John Rooney - a contract would have been out of his understanding. 'And John Rooney said to him, 'you're going to work for me for the rest of your life'. 'My brother replied 'oh, I don't know about that'. Prior to that conversation, John Rooney had actually made him dig a hole. 'And my brother said to him ''how much further do you want me to dig down?'' 'And he (John) said 'keep digging' and at the end of the conversation said to him ''if you don't sign this contract, that's where you're going, in that hole''. 'We think he was captured for up to 26 years.' Advertisement A new QR code scam on charging and parking machines is targeting motorists across Britain. The scam, which asks people to scan a fake QR code on parking or charging meters , has been spotted in London, Portsmouth, Lancashire, Newcastle, Leicester, Colwyn Bay, North Wales, Derbyshire, as well as Barking and Dagenham. Shocking videos emerged showing that legitimate QR codes had been stickered over with the fake codes. When scanned the fake QR codes lead unlucky victims, who believe they are paying a charging or parking provider, to a bogus site which can steal both their money and details. On first glance, the sign looks and appears to be legitimate which could easily trick unsuspecting customers Once the sticker showing the black QR code was removed, you can see the real green code underneath Those that fall for the scam are still liable to pay for their parking charge or may face shock fines as they believe their payment was successful but instead went to the scammers. And, some motorists claim to have been the target of large scale thefts- with one woman saying she had 1,500 taken from her bank account. How does the QR code con work? To scam unfortunate victims out of their cash, fraudsters use fake QR codes, that when scanned, mimic real payment sites. The scam artists sticker over legitimate QR codes on parking and charging machines, leading unsuspecting motorists to believe they are paying for their service. In reality, drivers bank details have been given over, leaving motorists vulnerable to large scale thefts. To avoid the scam, drivers have been warned to be vigilant. Rubbing your finger over the QR may help determine whether it is real as some have barcodes which you can feel. Using certified apps or using payment websites online is another secure option. And finally, cash may be king for drivers and is a safe option against the scam. Advertisement The scam QR codes had been stickered over three pay and display meters in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire. One woman wrote on Facebook that she'd used the St Annes beach car park and was scammed to the tune of 1,500. She said: 'I paid for parking, or so I thought, at the St Anne's Beach car park using this (QR code) as I had no cash. 'Then 1,500 has gone out of my bank! They said just five minutes after I 'paid' someone tried adding my card to their Google Pay. 'Hopefully I will get it back as police, Action Fraud and the company he's ordered things from with my card have been informed. 'Apparently he's used my card to buy car parts in Hinckley (Leicestershire) My son paid same way on same day and they tried his yesterday too.' Another victim in Lancashire wrote: 'I got done by this on Monday. I got an alert from my bank last night about it. It's all sorted but they tried to use it at Sainsburys for 104.' A council spokesman said: 'We've investigated and found stickers with a large QR code have been placed on some of our car park pay and display machines and tariff boards. 'Since removing these fake QR codes, more have been placed including Dicconson Terrace car park, St Paul's Avenue and Stanner Bank. 'Please do not scan any, we are currently working to solve this issue.' Fylde Council confirmed it had removed the stickers and advised those who had used the codes to contact their bank and Lancashire Police. Tina Sheppard from Derbyshire also fell prey to the scam in Leicester, which began to take amounts from her bank account reaching 80. Ms Sheppard told the Derby Telegraph: 'the code looked totally genuine. I was off to a business event, and, to be honest, my biggest concern was that it was dark and I wanted to get to the hotel where I was dropping my bags off safely 'I tried to download the parking app on the car park board and it redirected me to a website instead. It looked totally genuine and after putting my card details into the site it crashed. Fylde Council said it had removed the fake stickers, but more had since appeared The fake codes have been put on display at three car parks 'I actually called my husband to help me remotely and he successfully managed to help me from home. The bank then contacted me to ask if I had genuinely purchased from the site, and thinking there was no issue, I said "yes".' Luckily Ms Sheppard's bank was able to retrieve her stolen money. Last month, drivers in Cheltenham were also targeted by the scam on car parks. The council's deputy chief executive Paul Jones urged residents to avoid the QR codes and use cash, card and apple pay instead. In Colywn Bay, North Wales, police are investigating the parking scam designed to snare locals and tourists at two high profile seafronts. Conwy Council said scammers use these sites to steal payment information, often leading to more fraudulent payments. Anyone who has fallen victim to this kind of scam has been advised to contact their bank to stop further funds being taken, the council advised. A spokesperson for the local authority said: 'Civil enforcement officers working for the council will continue to monitor parking machines across the county and remove any unauthorised notices. 'The council has reported the issue to North Wales Police and PayByPhone, which are working to remove the fraudulent site.' In Newcastle, drivers were warned not to use QR codes to pay for parking, with at least three victims recorded by Newcastle City Council. A spokeswoman for the council said: 'The codes are not linked to any official payment website and are not used by the city council as a payment method. 'Following each reported incident we have immediately gone to the car park in question to check for, and remove, any unofficial signage. However on each occasion we have found the signs to have already been removed.' Slide me Spot the difference: Paybyphone's legitimate website (left) looks remarkably similar to the one created by scammers Three council run car parks, Dean Street, Morden Street, and Blandford Square, had been targeted with victims losing 60 from the fraudsters. Drivers in Portsmouth were warned that QR codes led to 'mimic' sites of their official parking app RingGo, who do not use QR code payments. Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport said: ' We don't use any QR codes for parking in the city, so we urge everyone to stay alert and only use official sources to prevent giving away their payment details. It's crucial for people to use the official RingGo app to pay for parking in Portsmouth to avoid falling for scams like fake QR codes.' In London, it was drivers of electric vehicles who were the target of the QR code scam. The fraudulent QR codes had been stickered over a Siemens Ubitricty EV charging port asking drivers to scan the code to pay for charging. In a shocking video, one man peeled away the fake QR code to reveal the legitimate sign beneath. An investigation by the BBC found that QR code scams in the UK had increased from 112 in 2020 to 400 in the first nine months of 2023, according to Action Fraud. A woman from Teesside, faced losing more than 13,000 when she fell victim to a fake QR code in Thornaby Station in 2023 and said the incident had left her suffering 'sleepless nights'. Ofwat today proposed 168million of fines for three of England's biggest water companies for failing to manage sewage spills. The water regulator proposed a 104million penalty for Thames Water, as well as a 47million fine for Yorkshire Water and 17million for Northumbrian Water, as the first batch of results from its biggest ever investigation into the industry. The penalties relate to water firms' management of their wastewater treatment and sewer systems after they were criticised for releasing too much pollution into rivers. But Ofwat insisted that the burden of fines would fall on investors rather than customers of the three companies, and would not result in higher bills. It comes after a survey revealed nearly three in four Brits who previously swam in the sea have stopped because they are scared of raw sewage dumped in the water. In an announcement this morning, Ofwat said the firms 'failed to ensure that discharges of untreated wastewater from storm overflows occur only in exceptional circumstances, which has resulted in harm to the environment and their customers'. Thames Water discharged sewage from a treatment works into the River Thames at Datchet Warning signs on a fence next to the River Misbourne in Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire It added that there was a 'strong correlation' between high spill levels and operational issues at their wastewater treatment sites, 'which points to these companies not having properly operated and maintained their wastewater treatment works'. It said the firms had failed to upgrade their assets where necessary, and had been slow to grasp their obligations to limit pollution from storm overflows. Ofwat chief executive David Black stressed that it is 'not at all' the case that the penalties on Thames Water, Yorkshire Water and Northumbrian Water will result in higher bills. 'We set the rules on what charges they can recover from customers, so we make absolutely no provision for fines in the levels of bills that is set for customers,' he told Sky News. 'Customers can be reassured these fines sit with investors, not with customers of the water companies.' He also admitted that Thames Water 'faces serious challenges' but said the regulator will 'not relent in enforcing their obligations whatever the financial circumstances'. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. He said it was 'not a relevant consideration' for the watchdog that such a penalty could tip the struggling utility firm into bankruptcy. Thames Water's fine amounts to 9 per cent of the company's turnover, just shy of the 10 per cent maximum Ofwat is allowed to impose. Mr Black said: 'That recognises the seriousness of the breaches we have uncovered.' Others have raised concerns that there could be an impact on bills for Thames Water customers despite Ofwat saying otherwise. Tim Symes, partner and insolvency and asset recovery lawyer at UK law firm Stewarts, told MailOnline: 'The obvious concern for customers is that the impact of this fine, like the impact of the years of replacing cash with debt, may be used by Thames Water to make a case for higher bills, meaning customers end up indirectly paying for the fines. 'This is plainly not a consequence which the regulator wants to have created, but in circumstances where Thames Water's financial distress remains acute, it's difficult to see how its customers will not be adversely affected by this fine one way or the other.' Environment Secretary Steve Reed welcomed the fines. 'The unacceptable destruction of our waterways should never have been allowed - and it is right that those responsible for illegally polluting our rivers, lakes and seas face the consequences,' he said. 'This Government will fundamentally reform the water sector. 'We have announced our first steps to clean up the water industry in our Water (Special Measures) Bill, to cut sewage pollution, protect customers and attract investment to upgrade its crumbling infrastructure. Total hours water companies in England leaked sewage into rivers, lakes and the sea in 2023 shown by the areas they cover 'We will outline further legislation to transform and reset our water industry and restore our rivers, lakes and seas to good health.' Ofwat said more than two-thirds of Thames Water's wastewater treatment works with Flow to Full Treatment (FFT) permits had capacity and operational issues, while one in six of its storm overflows were found to be in breach of regulations. Yorkshire Water's wastewater treatment works were in better shape, with just 16 per cent of them having operational issues. But 45 per cent of its storm overflows were in breach. Ofwat said Yorkshire Water had failed to demonstrate that spills 'resulted from exceptional circumstances and, in most cases, has failed to properly consider whether cost beneficial solutions existed to address these problems'. Some 3 per cent of Northumbrian Water's wastewater works had issues, while 9 per cent of its storm overflows were in breach. Ofwat said Northumbrian Water had carried out 'desk-based' anaylsis on whether it was cost beneficial to reduce spills, but said this 'involved no investigation of whether environmental harm was actually occurring as a result of the high volume of spills recorded'. Meanwhile, Charles Watson, chairman of campaign group River Action, said: 'Thankfully the water regulator, for so long toothless, is finally waking up to the scale of the public's outrage and we are starting to see some meaningful penalties being imposed upon the worst offenders.' Sewage and plant debris floats on the Jubliee River in Dorney Reach, Buckinghamshire Clearwater Court, the headquarters of Thames Water in Reading, next to the River Thames He also criticised water companies for paying out billions in shareholder dividends in recent years. 'Until the ability of these polluting companies to hand out so much cash is severely curtailed, pollution will continue to be a highly profitable activity with inadequate incentives for the water companies to fix their creaking infrastructure and stop filling our rivers with raw sewage,' he said. A Thames Water spokeswoman told MailOnline: 'We have been notified by Ofwat that it has reached the next stage in its investigation on our management of wastewater treatment works and our sewer network. We take this matter very seriously and have cooperated at every stage of Ofwat's investigation. 'We regard all untreated discharges as unacceptable, even when they are permitted, and are taking action to improve the health of our rivers as a key area of focus and investment. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. 'This is the latest stage in the investigation process and we will continue to cooperate fully. Where appropriate, Ofwat may decide not to issue an enforcement order, or decide to impose a reduced or no financial penalty at the conclusion of the consultation period, in light of a commitment from the company to taking appropriate measures to secure compliance and provide redress for failures identified. 'We are encouraged that Ofwat recognises that in order to resolve the issues identified any redress needs to be deliverable, affordable and financeable. We will continue to engage with Ofwat and will respond to the consultation in due course.' The firm added that a separate investigation by the Environment Agency into all water and wastewater companies in England and Wales continues, and there is 'no indication of any date for this investigation to reach a conclusion'. Yorkshire Water said the firm is 'disappointed' with the proposed fine and that it had 'co-operated fully' with the investigation. Sewage floats on the River Thames at Datchet in Berkshire, which is a Thames Water area A spokeswoman told MailOnline: 'We take our responsibility to protect the environment very seriously. 'Last year, we apologised for not acting quickly enough and announced our 180million programme to reduce discharges from our storm overflows before April 2025. 'We are disappointed with Ofwat's response to their investigation into our wastewater treatment networks. 'Since the start of this process in November 2021, we have cooperated fully with the investigation and we will continue to seek clarity on their draft penalty and enforcement notice. We will be responding to the notice by September 10. 'We and our customers care deeply about river health and we want to provide reassurance that we have already taken considerable action to improve. Thames Water's Deephams Sewage Treatment Works in London is pictured last week 'For the past two years we have been industry leading for our wastewater treatment works compliance, we have more robust processes and procedures in place, and we have finished work at 10 storm overflows with 44 on site, and 66 due to start soon as part of our 180million investment programme. 'Our business plan for 2025-2030, which is currently being reviewed by Ofwat, proposes our largest environmental investment of 7.8billion.' A Northumbrian Water spokeswoman told MailOnline: 'We are very disappointed by Ofwat's decision to impose a penalty in respect of its Flow to Full Treatment investigation and don't recognise some of the standards of compliance that Ofwat is enforcing. 'These are a departure from its previous practice and appear inconsistent with those of the Environment Agency and the Government and with Ofwat's own practice in the past. 'We're working really hard to continue to deliver for customers and the environment and will continue to comply with and exceed Government regulations.' Dominic Perrottet has acknowledged enforcing vaccine mandates during the Covid pandemic was a 'mistake'. The former NSW Premier made the stunning admission during his last speech to Parliament on Tuesday in which he also warned against ministers being 'passengers of the public service'. The former Liberal leader highlighted how the vaccine mandates forced frontline workers such as police, firefighters and healthcare staff to leave their jobs, which put further strain on already understaffed services. 'Health officials and governments were acting with the right intentions to stop the spread. But if the impact of vaccines on transmission was limited at best, as is mostly now accepted, the law should have left more room and respect for freedom,' Mr Perrottet said. 'Ultimately mandates were wrong. People's personal choices shouldn't have cost them their jobs.' Mr Perrottet claimed he tried to be rid of the mandates as quickly as he could when he took over as premier from Gladys Berejiklian following her sudden resignation in September 2021, just days before Sydney's three-month lockdown ended. However, he conceded the vaccine rules should have been removed faster. Elsewhere in the speech, Mr Perrottet bizarrely described himself as the 'political love child' of former prime ministers John Howard and Paul Keating and said the Coalition under his leadership 'reshaped our city and state and laid the foundation for a promising future'. Former New South Wales premier Dominic Perrottet (pictured during his farewell speech on Tuesday) conceded the Covid vaccine mandates during the pandemic were a 'mistake' Mr Perrottet highlighted how the vaccine mandates forced several frontline workers, including police, firefighters and healthcare staff, to leave their jobs - further straining the already understaffed industries 'Over 12 years, our government took a Bradfield-like attitude to governing,' he said. The Coalition spent 12 years in power before they lost the 2023 state election, prompting Mr Perrottet to step down as leader. Mr Keating was one of many notable politicians in the public gallery watching Mr Perrottet's speech. Mr Perrottet praised Mr Keating for helping him realise the 'power of imagination in politics', despite being from opposite sides of politics. 'He also once said to me "Dom, I had to teach my b*****ds to care about money and you need to teach your b*****ds to care about people",' he said. Mr Perrottet also thanked Mr Howard for being a 'constant source of wisdom'. He saved his biggest appreciation for his wife Helen, the mother of his six children. 'I have never properly appreciated or thanked you enough for the sacrifices you have made for our family and putting your own career on hold to support me in mine,' Mr Perrottet said. 'You carried the mental load at home, while regularly toiling away late at night on your legal work as a major in the ADF, well after the kids were in bed, and rising well before they woke. 'You have made so many sacrifices with such selfless love and care over all these years. I can now understand why you seemed so happy during my concession speech on election night.' As Mr Perrottet wrapped his 13 years of politics, he thanked his wife Helen (pictured) for making 'so many sacrifices with such selfless love and care' The former premier also shared five 'lessons' from his 13 years in government. 'What I have learned is that the real Opposition in government is not 'the Opposition', it's the status quo,' he said. Mr Perrottet also urged his political peers to not fear challenging bureaucrats to ensure they don't end up as a 'hamster on some government department's wheel'. 'Ministers must also be persistent and determined to hold the public sector to account for implementing reforms, because even simple ideas can face immense resistance,' he said. Mr Perrottet announced he would be leaving his political career last month to work for mining company BHP in the United States. 'Politics is about winning the future and you do that by having ideas. May the best ideas win,' he ended his speech. This is the moment a 'drink-drive' tourist inhaled laughing gas from a balloon after crashing his car on a Spanish roundabout, before revellers partied on his roof. Bizarre footage shows a large group of people approaching a grey vehicle which has mounted a roundabout and ground to a halt on a road in the Costa Brava resort of Lloret de Mar, north of Barcelona. Video shows how people at the scene of the apparent crash discovered the driver - still with his seatbelt on - breathing in what appears to be nitrous oxide while his confused-looking passenger tries to come to terms with the surreal scenes. Meanwhile, noisy youngsters who approached the car decided the incident - which happened just before 6am on Sunday - was cause for celebration. With the two men still in the Cupra Formentor car, they surrounded the vehicle shouting and chanting before at least two took turns to clamber on the roof and jump up and down as others took videos. Video footage begins by showing a grey vehicle grounded to a halt on a road in the Costa Brava resort of Lloret de Mar The person videoing the car then approaches the vehicle to find the driver (right), still with his seatbelt on, inhaling what appears to be nitrous oxide Revellers decided it was the perfect time to continue their dancing by jumping on the car's bonnet Police breath-tested the driver when they arrived and discovered he was over the limit. He also failed a cannabis test according to local reports. The unnamed man, described by police sources as a tourist, was arrested after the results of the drink and drug tests came back. CCTV footage obtained by cops is said to have shown him driving at speed before crashing. He is not thought to have been tested for nitrous oxide consumption, despite the video evidence pointing to him sucking up laughing gas. In May two female British tourists were filmed fighting each other in a Majorcan resort in another case of holidaymaker 'bad behaviour.' One of the women was in a thong but that didn't stop her getting her rival into a chokehold and then having a go at a Good Samaritan trying to separate them before turning her attention back to her rival. Witnesses egged on the pair as they made a spectacle of themselves with their late-night show. A group of British women watching from a safe distance shouted: 'Fight, fight, fight' as they pushed and slapped each other. It was not entirely clear why the brunette involved in the violence, who looked very unsteady on her feet when she was lifted off the ground, was only partially dressed and showing off most of her backside in her unusual fight attire. Another reveller climbed up on to the roof of the car and continued to dance and jump The shocking scenes took place just before 6am on Sunday. The region was north of Barcelona The incident occurred at Cala d'Or on Majorca's south-east coast, in an area packed with bars and restaurants, hours after regional government officials announced a tightening-up of legislation designed to stamp out drunken tourism in party resorts on the island including parts of Magaluf. Overnight it also emerged nine Dutch tourists aged 18 to 20 had been held after allegedly causing nearly 1,800 damage to a hotel in S'Arenal on the eastern end of the Playa de Palma area of Majorca. They are said to have made a large hole in a wall between two rooms at the three-star MLL Palma Bay Club Resort before leaving the hotel without officially checking out. They were arrested at Majorca airport as they tried to fly home and hauled to court on Monday. A judge confiscated their passports and told them they would only have them returned once they paid for the damage they were accused of causing. Jon Jacobo was arraigned in San Francisco Superior Court. Constanza Hevia H./Special to the Chronicle 2020 Jon Jacobo, a former San Francisco nonprofit executive, pleaded not guilty to charges of rape and other felonies a day after prosecutors accused him of sexually assaulting a woman at his home in 2021. Jacobo, 35, sat quietly in court alongside his attorney, Martina Avalos, during his arraignment Tuesday afternoon. Almost every seat in the courtroom was taken by spectators, including representatives of a domestic violence prevention group and what appeared to be a large contingent of Jacobos family. His fiance, former San Francisco school board president Gabriela Lopez, was also there with their 2-month-old daughter. The San Francisco District Attorneys Office filed charges Monday against Jacobo, including one count of rape, one count of oral copulation by force, one count of domestic violence and one count of sexual battery. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jacobo, once an ascendent political figure in San Francisco, was a member of the Mission District nonprofit Calle 24 board of directors until he resigned from his post in April, the same month he resigned from his leadership position at TODCO Group, an affordable housing nonprofit organization in San Francisco. In a statement, prosecutors said Jacobo raped a woman he was previously in a relationship with, identified in court Tuesday as Sasha P. The charges come three years after Sasha Perigo, a housing rights activist in San Francisco, publicly accused Jacobo of raping her at his Mission District apartment in April 2021. Since then, three other unnamed women filed police reports against Jacobo, alleging crimes including sexual assault and domestic violence. Jacobo surrendered to the San Francisco Police Departments Special Victims Unit on Monday and was booked into the San Francisco County Jail shortly before 4 p.m. the same day. In court Tuesday, Avalos said she believed the charges were politically motivated and asserted Jacobos innocence, noting that he had been spending his time working, reached 500 days of sobriety and entered into a relationship with his partner, Lopez. Avalos asked if Lopez could read a statement to the court, but San Francisco Superior Court judge Kenneth Wine denied the request. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This is a man who is deeply committed to his family, his daughter, and he has been deeply committed to his community, said Avalos. He is going to fight and demonstrate his innocence. That much we know. A prosecutor said in court that women had been sounding the alarm on the dangerousness of Mr. Jacobo for years. Theyve experienced some of the most heinous and traumatic crimes that a person can experience. Wine ruled that Jacobo be kept detained, saying that the charges were too serious to let him out, prompting Lopez to cry quietly in her seat. Avalos said she would file a bail release motion in response, which Wine said he would consider on Friday morning. Wine also signed a protective order for Sasha P., ordering the defendant not to have any contact with her. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 'Baroness Bra' Michelle Mone has been seen in Cartier jewellery worth 123,000 on just one hand while holidaying in the Algarve - as an investigation in 200million 'VIP lane' contracts continues. The lingerie entrepreneur and Conservative peer was pictured walking in the Portuguese resort of Almancil with extravagant Cartier bracelets around her wrist. They appeared to include a 'love bracelet' of white gold and diamonds priced at 45,400 and another 'diamond-paved' one made of yellow gold costing 42,400 - along with a Maillon Panthere white gold ring with diamonds valued at 20,700. She also seemed to be wearing a 'brushed love bracelet' of yellow gold on sale for 7,050 and a 7,550 white gold equivalent. Lady Mone, 52, and her husband Doug Barrowman, 59, are being investigated by Britain's National Crime Agency for alleged fraud - with the probe looking into the award of more than 200million in Covid-19 deals in 2020 to PPE Medpro, a firm with which they were linked. Baroness Michelle Mone has been pictured going out for breakfast on holiday in the Algarve The lingerie entrepreneur, 52, was seen sporting lavish jewellery on her right wrist and hand Lady Mone and her husband Doug Barrowman, 59, are being investigated by Britain's National Crime Agency for alleged fraud. PPE Medpro, a group led by Mr Barrowman, was contracted to supply personal protective equipment after Lady Mone recommended it to ministers. The Department of Health has since issued breach of contract proceedings over the 2020 deal. Both Lady Mone and Mr Barrowman deny wrongdoing. The couple have been questioned under caution by officers at the NCA, which has been investigating them over allegations of bribery and fraud. They have previously complained of being 'treated as a punchbag' after lying about having no connections to a PPE company awarded the deals. In a statement published by Lady Mone on X, formerly Twitter, on January 1 this year Mr Barrowman said it 'suits the agenda' of the UK Government to "scapegoat' him and his wife for their part in supplying items designed to protect against Covid. Lady Mone had earlier admitted she lied when she denied having connections to the company, a consortium led by her husband, which was awarded contracts to supply gowns and face masks. The businesswoman stood to benefit from its 60million in profits that were placed into a trust by her husband. The contracts were awarded without going to competitive tender after Mone lobbied ministers, having not declared any possible conflict of interest to the House of Lords. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, when Labour leader of the opposition, called for Lady Mone to be expelled from the Lords following the later confession she lied over her links to Medpro. In a YouTube film posted last December, the couple admitted their connections to the company - with Lady Mone saying she made an 'error' but insisting they would be cleared of any wrongdoing, adding: 'We've done nothing wrong.' Doug Barrowman and Lady Mone, pictured at Cheltenham Racecourse in March 2019, The couple have been questioned under caution by officers at the National Crime Agency The NCA has been investigating them over allegations of bribery and fraud - Lady Mone (pictured yesterday in Portugal) and her husband deny any wrongdoing Lady Mone has previously admitted she lied when she denied having connections to PPE Medpro, a consortium led by her husband which was given government contracts The Conservative peer was given a seat in the House of Lords in 2015 by then-Prime Minister David Cameron - she is pictured at the State Opening of Parliament in June 2017 Leaked documents revealed in February this year showed Mone emailing the Cabinet Office insisting she did not have 'any financial benefit whatsoever' from her husband's company. It also said she had 'no conflict of interest' in 2020 - five months before 29million was allegedly moved into a trust for her benefit. She had also stated in the emails: My role is to help the NHS deliver on its PPE targets and to ultimately save lives. But Mone later admitted she had lied to journalists over her connections with the company, telling the BBC: 'I wasn't trying to pull the wool over anyone's eyes.' When challenged on the fact she had lied to the press, she said: 'That's not a crime.' And Mr Barrowman insisted in his New Year's Day statement that it was 'simply unacceptable' that the UK Covid-19 Inquiry was not scheduled to review pandemic PPE procurement until 2025 and criticised the Department of Health and Social Care. He wrote: 'The stark reality is that DHSC has brought this claim against Medpro at a time of increased scrutiny of how it overspent by so much and when questions were being asked as to why the government was writing off 9billion of PPE out of the 13.1billion spent. 'How on Earth did the UK Government manage to purchase five years of PPE when it was only supposed to build up four months of stock? Yet no one has been held accountable at DHSC.' The department has said it does not comment on 'ongoing legal cases'. Companies set up by Glasgow-born Lady Mone include lingerie brand Ultimo, launched at the London department store Selfridges in August 1999 and which led to her nickname 'Baroness Bra'. In a statement published by Lady Mone on X, formerly Twitter , on January 1 this year Mr Barrowman (left) said it 'suits the agenda' of the UK Government to "scapegoat' him Leaked documents revealed in February this year showed Mone emailing the Cabinet Office insisting she did not have 'any financial benefit whatsoever' from her husband's company later admitted she had lied to journalists over her connections with the company, telling the BBC: 'I wasn't trying to pull the wool over anyone's eyes' Companies set up by Glasgow-born Lady Mone, seen here on ITV's Good Morning Britain show in September 2019, include lingerie brand Ultimo The lingerie firm was launched at the London department store Selfridges in August 1999 - she is seen here with Ultimo models at House of Fraser in Manchester in November 2014 She was awarded a peerage by then-Prime Minister David Cameron in 2015 but a spokesperson for her said in December 2022 that Lady Mone was taking a leave of absence from the Lords to 'clear her name' over the PPE Medpro controversy. It was reported in June this year that she had hired a bodyguard used by celebrities after receiving torrents of abuse and an apparent acid attack threat amid the ongoing PPE contracts investigation. She is said to have received abuse on social media and had hate mail sent to her place of work and home in the Isle of Man where she and her husband live. Speaking of the abuse, a friend of Lady Mone told The Times: 'It has been totally horrendous.' They added: 'It has affected her mental health.' The couple has been advised for the last 18 months by Will Geddes, a top security consultant who is said to charge up to 3,000 a day. Last autumn Lady Mone and Mr Barrowman sold their 19million Belgravia townhouse which had previously been listed as a frozen asset. The six-bedroom home in Eaton Terrace, central London, was placed on an interim court order as part of 75million worth of assets that could be confiscated if the couple were prosecuted over the Covid PPE allegations. They are said to have also sold their 6.8million, 127ft yacht 'Lady M', which was featured in an online picture she posted with the caption: 'Business isnt easy. But it is rewarding.' Meanwhile, a 46-year-old man from Barnet in north London was questioned in June as part of the NCA's probe. Michelle Mone, pictured arriving at the Scottish Business Awards in Edinburgh in May 2014, has insisted she and her husband will be cleared of any wrongdoing Their 6.8million, 127ft yacht 'Lady M' featured in an online picture Lady Mone posted with the caption: 'Business isnt easy. But it is rewarding' Last autumn Lady Mone and Mr Barrowman, pictured together in 2018, sold their 19million Belgravia townhouse which had previously been listed as a frozen asset He was held at his home on June 12 having been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit fraud and attempting to pervert the course of justice, before he was later released under investigation. At least three business associates of the couple have now been interviewed under caution by the NCA, according to the Sunday Times. A spokesperson for the NCA said in June: 'Investigations must pursue all reasonable lines of enquiry. In serious economic crime these lines of enquiry can be incredibly complex from worldwide financial tracing exercises to the need to examine large volumes of digital material. 'These complex cases take time to ensure a thorough, independent and objective investigation.' Tropical Storm Debby has killed at least six, including three children, after it smashed into Florida on Monday - with sustained high winds of 45mph and torrential rain and flash floods continuing to wreak havoc across the Southeast region. A 13-year-old boy was killed when a tree fell on his mobile home in Levy Country, Florida on Monday. A 12-year-old girl is also said to have been killed by a falling tree in the same county. A woman and 12-year-old boy died in a car crash on wet roads Sunday night in Dixie County - near where the storm first made landfall. In another horrific road traffic accident, a truck driver died after his cab flipped into a river below the highway. In southern Georgia, a 19-year-old man died when a large tree fell onto a porch at a home in Moultrie, local media reported - the first death caused by Debby in the state. Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane on the Big Bend coast of Florida early Monday, where it damaged homes and businesses, sent floodwaters rising, and caused sweeping power outages. It was downgraded to a tropical storm at midday yesterday, and is moving slowly up the coast, but experts say the worst is yet to come as the storm system is expected to stall over the region, resulting in 'historic' downpours and 'catastrophic flooding'. The mayor of Savannah, Georgia, has warned residents to 'hunker down', adding that people should expect Tuesday 'to be a rough day' as weather maps show the storm sweeping up the coast from Florida, into Georgia and towards the Carolinas. Due to Debby's slow movement on land, some areas could be drenched with 10 to 30 inches of rainfall, this National Hurricane Centre radar map shows A 13-year-old boy died on Monday after a tree fell on a mobile home southwest of Gainesville, Florida, according to the Levy County Sheriff's Office One of the storm's victims in Florida was the driver of a semi-truck whose cab fell into a river. Fire and rescue services pulled it out and the man was declared dead A drone view shows houses and streets flooded as Hurricane Debby affects the gulf coast in Suwannee, Florida, U.S., August 5, 2024 Debby was downgraded to a tropical storm at midday yesterday, and is moving slowly up the coast The NOAA's predictions for the movement of storm-force winds up the coast this week Northern Florida, the coastal regions of Georgia and South Carolina and parts of North Carolina are facing downpours, high winds and catastrophic flooding this week as the storm system moves up and east. At 5am EDT, the center of Debby was some 50 miles southwest of Savannah and 130 miles southwest of Charleston, South Carolina. Tropical storm-force winds extend outward up to 205 miles east of the center, according to the National Hurricane Center. Debby is moving northeast at 7mph, with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph, it added. Forecasters have said it has 'slowed to a near crawl', and will slow even more throughout today. The center is expected to move offshore the coast of Georgia later today, drift offshore, and then move inland again over South Carolina on Thursday, they predicted. The National Hurricane Center has said that its slow movement could result in 'potentially historic heavy rainfall across southeast Georgia and eastern South Carolina through Friday' which will 'likely result in catastrophic flooding'. President Joe Biden has approved a request from South Carolina's governor for an emergency declaration, following his earlier approval of a similar request from Florida. He has also now approved an emergency declaration for Georgia following a request by Governor Brian Kemp, who hoped it would speed up the flow of federal aid to the state. North Carolina is also under a state of emergency after Governor Roy Cooper declared it in an executive order signed on Monday. There are fears that potentially deadly conditions could persist as the storm continues on its path. Buildings sit along the coast line as the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood in Cedar Key, Florida A large sinkhole opened up on Grange Fall Loop in Wimauma after heavy rainfall Tow trucks lift a transfer truck that overturned on Independence Parkway in Tampa on Monday Vehicles drive through a flooded street caused by rain from Tropical Storm Debby on August 5, 2024 in Savannah, Georgia The truck driver who died on Interstate 75 in the Tampa area yesterday, lost control of his tractor-trailer before it flipped over a concrete wall. It dangled over the edge before the cab dropped into the water below. Sheriff's office divers located the driver in the cab 40 feet (12 metres) below the surface, according to the Florida Highway Patrol, and he was declared dead. The 13-year-old boy who lost his life died at around 8am on Monday after a tree fell on a mobile home southwest of Gainesville, according to the Levy County Sheriff's Office. Pictures show his home crushed under the huge tree. No other injuries were reported. Forecasters say the system could pummel the Southeast with widespread areas of up to 20 inches (51cm) of rain and some totaling up to 30 inches (76cm). That would be a record-setting rainfall, shattering the record from a tropical system in 2018's Hurricane Florence. More than 23 inches (58 centimeters) of rain was recorded in South Carolina after that storm hit the Carolinas. Ethan Widner, left, and Nick Davis watch traffic drive through floodwaters at Webber Street and Brink Avenue, near the bridge over Philippi Creek in Sarasota, Florida A resident walks through a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Debby Although Debby was classified as a Category 1, 'It really is worthy of a Category 3 or 4 rating, if you want to talk about rainfall impacts,' said Jeff Masters, founder of Weather Underground, now with Yale Climate Connections. 'That's going to cause a lot of damage.' After the storm hit, Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 61 counties across the state. The storm has caused heavy flooding in communities across Florida and Georgia. One Fort Myers resident said they were 'shocked' and worried as the flooding continued to rise. They said: 'Everyone was sat inside their homes watching the water rise so we went out to check on a few of our neighbours. 'I was so shocked by the flooding - we were worried for all the residents. Luckily our property is safe.' The storm has already left destruction and 'deadly hazards' in its wake, including downed power lines, flooding which has swept away cars and wrecked homes. According to reports, 150,000 homes and businesses were without power on Monday night, in Florida. A view of Talmadge Memorial Bridge in Savannah, GA, as Tropical Storm Debby moves in Beachgoers enjoy the sea as Hurricane Debby moves north of central Florida towards Georgia Angela Ortiz, left, hands her son Barrett Ortiz, right a stack of sandbags while preparing for the storm at a county park in Georgia Hershey Stepherson, left, and Bryan Burc, right, use a five gallon bucket to fill a sandbag while preparing for the storm Flash flood warnings were issued in Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina, among other areas of coastal Georgia and South Carolina. Both Savannah and Charleston announced curfews Monday night into Tuesday. In South Carolina, Charleston County Interim Emergency Director Ben Webster called Debby a 'historic and potentially unprecedented event' three times in a 90-second briefing Monday. In addition to the curfew, the city of Charleston's emergency plan includes sandbags for residents, opening parking garages so residents can park their cars above floodwaters and an online mapping system that shows which roads are closed due to flooding. A tornado touched down in the state on Monday night, damaging trees, and homes and taking down power lines, the Colleton County Sheriff's Office said on social media. No injuries were immediately reported, officials said. The National Weather Service continued issuing tornado warnings well into Monday night for parts of the state including in the island town of Hilton Head. Shortly after Debby made landfall as a hurricane, about 500 people were rescued on Monday from flooded homes in Sarasota, Florida, a beach city popular with tourists, the Sarasota Police Department said in a social media post. Bret Kasol, 40, wades out to his boat, which is close to being beached just by the sea wall of Gulfport, Florida A car passes under traffic signals swaying in the wind due to tropical storm Debby in Waverly, Georgia Joey Larsen checks on his neighborhood as high winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundated the area on Monday Storm surge breaks over a small sea wall near boat docks, in Horseshoe Beach, Florida Just north of Sarasota, officials in Manatee County said in a news release that 186 people were rescued from flood waters. 'Essentially we've had twice the amount of the rain that was predicted for us to have,' Sarasota County fire chief David Rathbun said on social media. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis warned that the state could continue to see threats as waterways north of the border fill up and flow south. The governor also activated his state's national guard, with more than 3,000 service members mobilised to help with the storm response. He warned that the state could continue to be wary of threats as waterways north of the border fill up and flow south. 'It is a very saturating, wet storm,' he said. 'When they crest and the water that's going to come down from Georgia, it's just something that we're going to be on alert for not just throughout today, but for the next week.' Nearly 160,000 customers remained without power in Florida and Georgia on Monday night, down from a peak of more than 350,000, according to operators. The family and friends of a Just Stop Oil campaigner jailed for 20 months for bringing the M25 to a standstill and causing 50,000 hours of disruption has complained they will 'miss her childcare'. Gaie Delap, 77, from Bristol, is one of five environmental activists who took part in peaceful direct action over four days in November 2022 which saw supporters from Just Stop Oil climb multiple gantries over the M25. The protest caused long delays for motorists and even prevented one man from missing his father's funeral. The grandmother, whose children and grandchildren live in Falmouth, was sentenced last week to 20 months in prison at Basildon Crown Court. But her daughter has now complained the sentence came as a shock, saying she will 'miss the childcare' and saying Dalep's granddaughters, both under one, will have to miss seeing her. Gaie Delap, 77, from Bristol, is one of five environmental activists who took part in peaceful direct action over four days in November 2022 After the sentencing Just Stop Oil released a picture including (L-R) Theresa Higginson, 26, Daniel Johnson, 25, Gaie Delap, 77, Paul Sousek, 73, Paul Bell, 24, and George Simonson, 24 Essex Police officers were seen removing Just Stop Oil protesters including this one on the M25 near Junction 29 in Essex on November 9, 2022 Police officers attempt to stop an activist as they put up a banner reading 'Just Stop Oil' atop an electronic traffic sign along M25 on November 10, 2022 Fellow Just Stop Oil protestors George Simonson and Theresa Higginson were sentenced to two years each, Paul Bell was sentenced to 22 months while Paul Sousek, from Bude, was also sentenced to 20 months. A sixth defendant, Daniel Johnson, was given a 21-month sentence suspended for two years and ordered to complete 200 hours of community service. All six had pleaded guilty to causing a public nuisance. The judge told Delap: 'Age, I regret, has not brought wisdom.' At the time of her sentencing Delap said: 'I've had to read the evidence of people who were stuck in our traffic, it hurts me. I'm sorry I had to do this. 'But we really have no other option. They didn't listen to the scientists, they didn't listen to their constituents, so we had to cause disruption in order to communicate the seriousness of humanity's predicament.' Ahead of the hearing Mr Sousek added: 'No New Oil' was the demand from Just Stop Oil right from the start. Now most political parties agree and it has become government policy. 'How come we are being jailed for pushing for, what is now, government policy? Kafka couldn't make it up.' Delap's family and friends have since slammed the courts for what they call undue severity of sentence. Lily Pridie, her daughter, said the sentencing has come as a real shock to her family. She said: 'We are all very shocked and worried about her wellbeing in this situation. On August 1 my mother was sentenced to 20 months in prison for her part in a peaceful climate protest action that blocked the M25 in November 2022. Tony Bambury was travelling with his family to his father's funeral just off the A13 near Pitsea in Essex when he discovered that the eco-mob had blocked parts of the M25 in protest Mr Bambury said: 'These people have forced me not to go to my own father's funeral by their actions and it's not like I can get a second chance at this' - pictured is his late father Activists carried out the blockade across different parts of the motorway orbiting London 'She is so concerned about the climate crisis that she made the extraordinary decision at the age of 75 to join a small group of people who each climbed a gantry on the M25. 'While they understood their actions would cause disruption, they felt that the current Government was ignoring clear evidence about the impending crisis and they demanded that there should be 'No New Oil'. 'This idea has ostensibly now become government policy and yet Gaie and her fellow protestors have been jailed for demanding that change. 'Mum is a Quaker. She is passionately against any sort of violence and has dedicated her life to volunteering to help others in need both in her local community and across the world.' Ms Pridie added: 'We will all greatly miss her childcare and looking after elderly relatives in Bristol. 'The youngest two grandchildren have only just turned one and will now not see their much-loved grandmother for a very long time because she was trying to push for a better future for them. 'The past 18 months have been a time of enormous stress for Gaie - a tagging/curfew order restricting her movements, endless court appearances and worry has taken a huge toll on her health, last week she had a mini stroke. This seems like punishment enough for a peaceful, non-violent climate activist.' Among those affected by the M25 blockade was Tony Bambury, who was travelling with his family from his home in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, to his father's funeral just off the A13 near Pitsea in Essex. He was forced to divert off the motorway towards St Albans in Hertfordshire to find an alternative route to Essex, but got caught up in long queues of traffic. He was forced to call his mother to say he would not be able to reach the funeral on time. He told ITV Meridien in November 2022: 'I called my Mum, who's 79, and was very upset as you can imagine. My brother and his family were there, I wanted to be there, and I had a eulogy that I was going to say about my father. 'These people have forced me not to go to my own father's funeral by their actions and it's not like I can get a second chance at this. I'll never forget what they've done and I'll never forgive what they have done.' The M25 blockade in November 2022, which saw campaigners climb gantries over the motorway, caused 50,000 hours of delays and forced a man to miss his father's funeral Police watch as traffic is held back as an activist from Just Stop Oil occupies a gantry over the M25 near Godstone in Surrey as part of the November 2022 protests Another man missed the birth of his child, saying: 'My wife gave birth yesterday afternoon, she was alone whilst I was stuck on the M25 desperately trying to reach the hospital.' The M25 protests, which saw a total of 45 people climb up gantries, led to an economic cost of at least 765,000, while the cost to the Metropolitan Police was more than 1.1million. They also allegedly caused more than 50,000 hours of vehicle delay, affecting more than 700,000 vehicles, and left the M25 'compromised' for more than 120 hours. A police outrider was knocked off his bike and two lorries crashed when one Just Stop Oil demonstrators tried to climb one of the motorway's gantries. Judge Shane Collery told the defendants as he handed down the sentences that their behaviour was 'disproportionate to your aims' - a fortnight after JSO co-founder Roger Hallam was given a five-year prison term. Mr Collery said it was 'easy to be blase when it's not your life that's disrupted.' Dozens of supporters have held protests in London in recent weeks in solidarity with the more than 20 Just Stop Oil activists currently in prison. But Lesley Chandler, a fellow Quaker with the Falmouth Quaker Church of which Delap is a member, said she does not understand the logic behind what she says is a 'very harsh and inappropriate sentence'. She told CornwallLive: 'Gaie is committed to telling the truth and to spreading peace wherever she is. This action was about telling the truth about oil drilling in the North Sea. It was about forcing the Government to listen. This Government has begun to listen so maybe there is hope. 'But what's going in the courts is inappropriate and harsh. It must be confusing for people to make a difference between protests and riots. A protester is not a rioter. Rioters are determined to unsettle stability in our society. Dozens of supporters have held protests in London in recent weeks in solidarity with the more than 20 Just Stop Oil activists currently in prison A protester holds a placard which states 'If you don't like queues on the M25, I doubt you'll like climate collapse' 'Gaie wanted stability for her grandchildren. She said she had to take action not for herself but for the sake of her grandchildren and all our grandchildren or she wouldn't be able to look them in the eye. She didn't do this for any personal reason but for the future. For all our future.' Mat Osmond, a lecturer at Falmouth University who has been involved in silent Defend Our Juries protests outside Truro Crown Court, was among hundreds of Just Stop Oil supporters who were arrested for blocking traffic in Central London in 2022. He said those sentenced are 'upstanding members of society who have found that the only way for society to listen is to carry out non-violent disruptive action'. He said: 'This is a travesty. We can't leave Gaie and Paul and the others standing in prison. We have to find a way to bear witness to what there are doing and stand by them. As far I'm concerned they're heroes.' He added: 'Some judges are acting with excess and making a moral judgment, and looking at this as some sort of high-level antisocial behaviour. The unravelling of our world because of fossil fuel is not opinion. It's a reality. 'What all these people have done is cause a traffic jam. I am sure some of those caught in this traffic jam were frustrated or materially affected by it. I do not doubt that. But this very punitive to create a deterrent. This is a political sentence.' The Scottish exams system descended into mayhem today as 7,000 students were sent 'blank' emails instead of grades and others got results a day early by mistake. Pupils described being left 'more nervous' and 'quite upset' by the issues as about 145,000 received their results for National, Higher and Advanced Higher exams. The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) insisted it worked 'urgently' to resolve problems affecting some candidates who signed up to receive results by email. But the Conservatives blasted the 'chaotic and shambolic situation' while Labour lamented how students had 'woken up to a new level of SQA chaos'. The SQA said the issue impacted students who signed up to receive their results by email only and was fixed by 9.30am. Others were receiving results by post or by text. To add to the chaos, some pupils in the West Mailand received their results by post a day early. This has prompted the Orkney Islands Council to launch an investigation and ask the SQA and Royal Mail to look into what happened 'as a matter of urgency'. The SQA has had a team of 7,400 markers grading about two million exam papers and more than 1.3million items of coursework submitted as part of the process. Certificates were sent out to candidates across Scotland by first class post, but about 58,000 students also signed up to be notified of grades via text or email. Students in Scotland were today sent blank emails instead of grades, like the one above Students at Madras College in St Andrews, Fife, celebrate their exam results today Pupils at Barrhead High School in East Renfrewshire celebrate their exam results today Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth meets with students at Madras College in St Andrews today Two-time world kickboxing champion Lauren Kee secured 5 Highers despite sitting exams while competing abroad. She is pictured at Barrhead High School in East Renfrewshire today Students at Madras College in St Andrews, Fife, receive their exam results today Pupils discuss their exam results at Williamwood High School in Clarkston this morning A member of the Junior GB track cycling squad, Erin Boothman, is aiming for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028 and gained 5 Highers (4As and 1B) at Williamwood High School in Clarkston The 'blank' email began by simply saying: 'Dear Candidate, Your 2024 results are:' Changes to Scottish exams expected in 'early days' of next term Reforms to Scotland's exams system will be revealed in the coming weeks, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth has said. The Scottish Government took the decision to overhaul the system with the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) to be replaced by Qualifications Scotland. Speaking as pupils are set to receive their exam results today, Ms Gilruth told the BBC she had previously instructed the current body to look at how some exams could be replaced. 'Scotland has a high number of final exams that our young people sit,' she said. 'We have high stakes examinations in S4, S5 and S6 and across (Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development) countries, educational systems look really different. 'So, what I've asked the SQA this year to do is to look at how we might be able to move at pace at reducing a number of examinations in a certain number of qualifications - that work is already underway.' Ms Gilruth went on to stress the importance of giving young people 'the skills that they need for after they leave school'. She added that perhaps pupils could 'thrive' due to the use of coursework as opposed to final exams. 'I had hoped to ... confirm those changes at the end of the parliamentary term,' she said. 'However, due to the election, I wasn't able to do so, so it will be in the early days of the coming parliamentary session.' MSPs are due to return to Holyrood after their summer recess in the first week of September. Advertisement It continued: 'If you have any questions about your results, please speak to your school, college or training provider, who can give advice on your options. You can also visit www.sqa.org.uk/yourresults where you will find lots of useful information and how to contact us if you need to.' The email concluded: 'I send you my best wishes for the future. Yours sincerely, Fiona Robertson, SQA chief executive, and Scotland's chief examining officer.' Among the students who received a blank message was Cameron Falconer, who signed up to the email service because he knew he would be away from home at a gymnastics training camp on results day. The 16-year-old from East Kilbride told BBC News: 'It's making me feel more nervous. When I saw it at first I thought I'd got no qualifications. It's making me feel quite upset to be honest'. Ryan, a pupil at the Glasgow Gaelic Secondary School, told how he also received a blank email, but his headteacher then informed him that he got 5As at Higher. Scottish Tory education spokesperson Liam Kerr MSP blasted the 'shambolic situation' as he blamed the Scottish government and SQA for the blank emails. He told the BBC: 'This chaotic and shambolic situation is the last thing pupils across Scotland needed on results day. Receiving a blank email will have only added to pupils' worries about how they did in their exams. 'Successive SNP education secretaries have dithered and delayed on reforming the SQA for too long. Even then their plans amount to a sticking plaster rather than the widespread changes that Scottish education requires.' Meanwhile Scottish Labour education spokesperson Pam Duncan-Glancy said: 'Young people across Scotland should have woken up this morning to exciting news - instead they have woken up to a new level of SQA chaos. 'It is simply unacceptable that thousands of young people have been forced to undergo real anxiety due to this SQA technical failure.' The SQA said it estimated about 7,000 pupils were affected by the email problem with about 5 per cent of the 145,000 who sat exams signed up for the email-only results service. Ms Robertson apologised and said the SQA's priority was fixing the problem, which was sorted before results officially came out at 9.30am and will now be discussed with its suppliers. The email was signed by Scottish Qualifications Authority chief executive Fiona Robertson While investigating the problem earlier, the SQA said on X: 'We are working urgently to resolve the issue. Texts are not impacted and the vast majority of learners who signed up to MySQA are receiving their results as expected. When do GCSE and A-level results come out in England, Wales and Northern Ireland? A-LEVELS: AUGUST 15 AS and A-level AQA Certificate (Level 3) Functional Skills Level 3 Extended Project GCSEs: AUGUST 22 AQA Certificate (Level 1 Level 2) Entry Level Certificate FCSE Level 1 Foundation and Level 2 Higher Projects Advertisement 'All learners across Scotland will also receive their physical certificate today via post.' It later confirmed it had resolved the problem, saying: 'We have resolved a technical issue that impacted candidates who signed up to receive their results by email only using the MySQA service. 'Texts were not impacted and the vast majority of learners who signed up to MySQA received their results as expected. 'We apologise for any concern caused to learners who experienced a delay before receiving their MySQA email with their results attached.' It comes as exam bosses said students across Scotland had achieved a 'solid set of results', although the number passing with the top grades has fallen slightly from last year. This year's results showed that 77.2 per cent of those sitting National 5 exams passed with grades A to C - with this down from 78.8 per cent in 2023. For Highers, 74.9 per cent of students passed with the top bands, down from 77.1 per cent last year, and for Advanced Highers 75.3 per cent of students achieved A to C grades, falling from 79.8 per cent in 2023. The SQA stressed 'significant caution' should be exercised when comparing results, as changes during and after the Covid pandemic mean that different approaches have been used in awarding exams every year since 2019. National 5 grade A and grades A to C attainment rates from 2019 to 2024 However the Scottish Government said the results showed the impact of the poverty-related attainment gap, stating results were 'broadly similar' to 2019 - the last year of pre-pandemic results. Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said also that the recovery from the pandemic would have 'contributed to some of the variability we have seen in results this year'. She spoke as some 145,000 students across Scotland - the highest number since 2015 - received their results today. Ms Robertson said that overall 'while there is some variability in the national attainment picture in 2024, this is a solid set of results for learners in National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher courses'. She added that '2024 also marks a record-breaking year for vocational qualifications, as Scotland's learners excelled in achieving valuable skills to build rewarding careers'. Higher grade A and grades A to C attainment rates from 2019 to 2024 'And all of this has been achieved by a group of learners who experienced significant disruption to teaching and learning during the pandemic.' Ms Robertson insisted: 'Scotland's learners should be rightly proud of their achievements, supported by Scotland's dedicated and hard-working teachers, lecturers, our schools and colleges, and the wider education community.' Students were receiving grades for a wide range of qualifications including vocational awards, with a 24 per cent increase in vocational and technical qualification awards seeing a total of 90,045 such qualifications awarded. Ms Gilruth congratulated all students receiving results, noting they would have seen 'significant disruption to learning due to the pandemic at the end of primary school and start of the secondary school journey'. Advanced Higher grade A and grades A to C attainment rates from 2019 to 2024 The Education Secretary added: 'I'm really heartened to see a record high 90,045 vocational or technical qualifications have been awarded this year, up almost a quarter on 2023's results. 'Young people now have a much wider range of choice than ever before, allowing them to find the route into employment or further education that is right for them, and we know that the poverty related gap has reduced by 60 per cent since 2009 for young people leaving school and going on to a positive destination, such as work, training or further study.' However she said: 'Of course, Scotland is not unique - and like countries the world over, our education system is still in recovery from the pandemic. 'Undoubtedly, that has contributed to some of the variability we have seen in results this year, particularly with the full return to qualifications requirements for the first time since the pandemic. 'I am determined to work with our teachers, school staff and local authorities to drive further improvements in our schools.' Entries for National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher from 2019 to 2024 A helpline staffed by careers advisers from Skills Development Scotland opened at 8am on Tuesday to help advise students and parents on options following their result. This can be contacted on 0808 100 8000 and will be open from 8am until 8pm both today and tomorrow, and then from 9am to 5pm on Thursday and Friday. Meanwhile, the SQA also opened its free appeals service for students who wish to challenge their grades at 9am today. In addition, a Scotland-wide trial will give students in some subjects access to their marked exam papers, via either their school or college. The SQA believes the move will help learners decide whether or not to appeal their result. The qualifications body introduced this in a limited trial in 2023, with the scheme only applying then to a small group of schools across two subject areas. Now it has been expanded to all schools and colleges and can provide access to marked exam papers in five subject areas: geography (National 5 and Higher); graphic communication (National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher); media (National 5); music (National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher) and statistics (Advanced Higher). Did you receive a blank email from the SQA? Please email: tips@dailymail.com Social media bosses were today told they should be 'doing more' to prevent their sites being used to whip up Britain's race riots. Justice minister Heidi Alexander warned the Government will take a 'very robust approach' to tech firms following the outbreak of violent disorder across the UK. As well as the chaos in towns and cities, ministers and police chiefs are also seeking to tackle online criminality in a bid to combat the actions of far-right thugs. Downing Street has warned that anyone stoking the riots on the internet can be prosecuted and face prison. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle yesterday met with representatives of TikTok, Google, X, and Facebook and Instagram owner Meta. He urged them to tackle the 'unacceptable' use of social media to fuel violence and remind them of a duty to 'stop the spread of hateful misinformation and incitement'. It came as Downing Street engaged in a war-of-words with controversial X owner Elon Musk, who used his social media site to claim 'civil war' in the UK is 'inevitable'. Justice minister Heidi Alexander warned the Government will take a 'very robust approach' to tech firms following the outbreak of violent disorder across the UK Riot police officers are pictured pushing back masked men outside the Holiday Inn Express Hotel, which is housing asylum seekers, in Rotherham Technology Secretary Peter Kyle yesterday met with representatives of TikTok , Google , X, and Facebook and Instagram owner Meta Speaking to Sky News this morning, Ms Alexander insisted the Government would be 'very robust' in dealing with internet bosses. 'The idea that you can sit behind a computer screen or sit behind the screen of your mobile phone and somehow think that that protects you from the law is for the birds,' she said. 'So we will take a very robust approach to the social media companies, I know that Peter Kyle the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology is already in conversation with them. 'There has been some welcome action where there has been automated removal of some false information, but I do think the social media companies could and should be doing more. 'They have got a moral responsibility not to be propagating and disseminating misleading and inflammatory content on their platforms.' Ms Alexander also branded Mr Musk 'deeply irresponsible' for his posts about Britain's riots. She told Times Radio: 'If you have got a platform, a large social media platform, then you have also got a responsibility.' The minister added it was 'deeply irresponsible' and that 'everyone should be appealing for calm'. 'Use of language such as a 'civil war' is in no way acceptable,' Ms Alexander said. 'We are seeing police officers being seriously injured, buildings set alight. 'And so I really do think that everyone who has a platform should be exercising their power responsibly.' Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's official spokesman said yesterday that there was 'no justification for comments like that' when asked about Mr Musk's remark. Vanessa Feltz has claimed she was fooled by Huw Edwards into thinking he was a good man. The TV personality and broadcaster, 62, suggested the character witness element of the judicial system should be axed - after former BBC star Edwards pleaded guilty to receiving indecent images of children. Edwards, 62, was arrested on suspicion of receiving the images via a WhatsApp exchange with paedophile Alex Williams, 25, in November 2023. Last week he pleaded guilty to possessing seven category A images, 12 category B images and 22 category C images of children at Westminster magistrates' court. In a first-person piece for the Express, Feltz told how she was 'fooled' by Edwards throughout her decades spent at the BBC, describing her former perception of him as a 'thoroughly decent' man. '[Edwards] was humble, charming and empathetic. I saw him frequently during my 20-plus years at the BBC and he was never less than delightful,' she wrote. Huw Edwards (pictured) pleaded guilty to possessing seven category A images, 12 category B images and 22 category C images of children Vanessa Feltz (pictured) claimed she was fooled by Edwards into thinking he was a good man Feltz told how she was 'fooled' by Edwards throughout her decades spent at the BBC, describing her former perception of him as a 'thoroughly decent' man Feltz added: 'If you'd have asked me what kind of chap Huw Edwards was, then I'd have said: ''Self-effacing, wry and thoroughly decent.'' Wrong, wrong, wrong!' The broadcaster claimed she knew nothing of Edwards other than the man he 'chose to project in public' - justifying why she believes the 'character witness' element of court mitigation should be axed. It comes as disgraced presenter Edwards now faces being stripped of seven Bafta awards, the Mail on Sunday revealed last week. Bosses at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts on Saturday night branded Edwards' crimes 'abhorrent' and disclosed they are 'reviewing' a slew of awards won by the veteran broadcaster over 15 years. Asked whether Edwards' individual awards would now be removed, a Bafta spokesman said: 'Like everyone in the industry and country we were shocked by the news this week. Given the seriousness of this abhorrent crime, we are reviewing.' Media lawyer Mark Stephens said Bafta will have to strip Edwards of his awards: 'His reputation has been ruined. There is no way back. Bafta will not want any association with this at all.' Russia is sending air defence systems to Iran as the authoritarian state prepares an imminent attack against Israel, according to officials in Tehran. The New York Times was told by two Iranian officials, one of whom was a member of the nation's military, that Russia has started to deliver advanced radars and air-defence equipment. While it is not known exactly what equipment Iran had requested, Iran already has several Russian-made S-300 air defense systems. Just yesterday Sergei Shoigu, the secretary of Russia's security council and a former defense minister, met with Iran's president, Masoud Pezeshkian, and top security officials to support the Middle Eastern nation. Shoigu said: 'We are ready to cooperate fully with Iran in various areas.' Pezeshkian, meanwhile, thanked Moscow for supporting Iran in 'difficult times', adding that he wanted to strengthen relations with Russia. Iran is currently preparing for a major attack against Israel in retaliation for killing top Hamas negotiator Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut last month. Russia is sending air defence systems to Iran as the authoritarian state prepares an imminent attack against Israel (File image) Russia and Iran have grown close as allies over the past few years Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ordered his country's military to take revenge for the killing of top Hamas negotiator Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Fuad Shukr in Beirut last month The US' top diplomat, Anthony Blinken, told the G7 over the weekend that there was little information about what form the expected attack would take, but that it was likely to happen by the end of Tuesday, if at all. American and Israeli officials believe that Iran would coordinate with its allies in the region, also known as the Axis of Resistance, which is made up of groups including Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen. Behind closed doors, the US has been working to ease tensions between Israel, Iran and its respective allies. In a desperate bid to ease tensions, Biden yesterday called King Abdullah II of Jordan, who helped down Iranian drones and missiles in an earlier showdown in April, while Blinken called top officials in Qatar and Egypt, the key intermediaries seeking a ceasefire in the 10-month Israel-Hamas war. 'We are engaged in intense diplomacy, pretty much around the clock, with a very simple message - all parties must refrain from escalation,' Blinken said after joining other top officials in a White House meeting. 'It's also critical that we break this cycle by reaching a ceasefire in Gaza,' said Blinken. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian (R) meeting with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu (L) in Tehran, Iran, 05 August 2024 Banner of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's photo taken with Hamas Political Bureau Head Ismail Haniyeh at the inauguration ceremony, hung at Veliasr Street on Tehran, Iran Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei leads a prayer over the coffins of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and his bodyguard who were killed in an assassination blamed on Israel People gather during a funeral procession for Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas and his bodyguard who were killed in an assassination in Tehran, Iran Despite this, the IDF has continued to wage war against Palestine and Hezbollah. An Israeli missile strike killed four Hezbollah fighters in a home in the southern Lebanese town of Mayfadoun today. Meanwhile, eight Palestinians were killed in two IDF raids in the West Bank. Four were killed in the Jenin area and four in Tubas district. Israel has in the past been criticised for not doing enough to support Western allies in their own geopolitical struggles long before October 7. In 2022, Volodymyr Zelenksy furiously asked Israeli politician why they had blocked the transfer of Iron Dome missiles to Ukraine, and then refused to impose proper sanctions against Russia. Iranian Chief of Staff of Iranian Armed Forces General Mohammad Bagheri (R) meeting with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu (L), in Tehran, Iran People take part in a march called by Palestinian and Lebanese youth organisations in the southern Lebanese city of Saida, on August 5, 2024, to protest against the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh People watch as the bodies of unidentified Palestinians are buried at a mass grave after the bodies were handed over by Israel, amid Israel-Hamas conflict, in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip August 5, 2024 Israel's then-prime minister, Naftali Bennett, tried to claim that Israel's role as a mediator in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia meant it had to remain neutral. But Zelensky told Israeli lawmakers: 'Mediation can be between states, not between good and evil.' A Ukrainian official also claimed at the time that Bennett tried to convince Zelensky to accept Putin's derided demands in order to end the bloodiest conflict on European soil for decades. 'If I were you, I would think about the lives of my people and take the offer,' the official said Bennett told Zelensky. 'Bennett is basically telling us to surrender, and we have no intention of doing that,' the Ukrainian official said at the time. A US judge on Monday ruled in a landmark anti-trust case that Google has maintained an illegal monopoly with its dominant search engine. District Court Judge Amrit Mehta ruled that Google's search engine has been illegally exploiting its dominance to squash competition and stifle innovation, in a decision against a 'big tech' giant that could alter how the sector operates in future. Mehta found that the company had a monopoly for search and for text ads through exclusive distribution agreements that made it the 'default' option that people were likely to use on devices. After reviewing reams of evidence that included testimony from top executives at Google, Microsoft and Apple, including Google CEO Sundar Pichai during last year's 10-week trial, Mehta issued his potentially market-shifting decision three months after the two sides presented their closing arguments in early May. 'After having carefully considered and weighed the witness testimony and evidence, the court reaches the following conclusion: Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly,' Mehta wrote in his 277-page ruling. A US judge ruled on Monday that Google has been illegally exploiting its dominance to squash competition in a landmark anti-trust case. Google CEO Sundar Pichai (pictured) gave testimony during a 10-week trial last year Google's president of global affairs said the company intends to appeal District Court Judge Amrit Mehta's findings. Pictured: Googleplex - Google Headquarters office buildings Google 'enjoys an 89.2 per cent share of the market for general search services, which increases to 94.9 per cent on mobile devices,' the ruling said. Mehta said Google had paid billions to ensure it was the default search engine on smartphones and browsers. The internet behemoth 'has a major, largely unseen advantage over its rivals: default distribution,' he wrote. US Attorney General Merrick Garland, the country's top prosecutor, hailed the ruling as a 'historic win for the American people'. 'No company, no matter how large or influential, is above the law,' he defiantly added. 'The Justice Department will continue to vigorously enforce our antitrust laws'. Kent Walker, Google's president of global affairs, said the company intends to appeal Mehta's findings. 'This decision recognizes that Google offers the best search engine, but concludes that we shouldn't be allowed to make it easily available,' Walker said. He also pointed out that Mehta concluded Google is the industry's highest quality search engine, particularly on mobile devices, after the judge said: 'Google is widely recognized as the best (general search engine) available in the United States'. 'Given this, and that people are increasingly looking for information in more and more ways, we plan to appeal,' Walker said. 'As this process continues, we will remain focused on making products that people find helpful and easy to use.' Mehta's ruling focused on the billions of dollars Google spends every year to install its search engine as the default option on new cellphones and tech gadgets. In 2021 Google spent more than a staggering $26billion to lock in those default agreements, Mehta said in his ruling. Google fired back against those allegations, noting that consumers have historically changed search engines for various reasons. It remained to be seen what remedies or damages the judge might order in the landmark case. The potential outcome could result in a wide-ranging order requiring Google to dismantle some of the pillars of its internet empire, or preventing it from paying to ensure its search engine automatically answers queries on the iPhone and other devices. Or, the judge could conclude only modest changes are required to level the playing field. 'Google's loss in its search antitrust trial could be a huge deal, depending on the remedy,' said Emarketer senior analyst Evelyn Mitchell-Wolf. Mehta's ruling focused on the billions of dollars Google spends every year to install its search engine as the default option on new cellphones and tech gadgets 'A forced divestiture of the search business would sever Alphabet from its largest source of revenue,' she added, referring to Google's parent company. Even losing the option of making exclusive deals to be the default option on browsers, smartphones or computers would hurt Google, according to the analyst. But in one possible good sign for Google, Mehta concluded in his ruling that the tech titan's violation of the Sherman Act did not have 'anticompetitive effects.' Justice department lawyers argued that Google achieved and perpetuated its dominance, and strangled rivals, through these default deals that also expanded to Samsung and other device makers. 'The biggest winner from today's ruling isn't consumers or little tech, it's Microsoft,' said Chamber of Progress CEO Adam Kovacevich. 'Microsoft has underinvested in search for decades, but todays ruling opens the door to a court mandate of default deals for Bing.' The trial was the first time the US Department of Justice has faced a big tech company in court after Microsoft was targeted during the late 1990s in an antitrust lawsuit accusing it of abusing the dominance of its Windows operating system on personal computers to lock out competition. If Mehta decides to limit or ban Googles default search deals, it could also squeeze Apples profits. Although parts of his decision were redacted to protect confidential business information, Mehta noted that Google paid Apple an estimated $20billion in 2022, doubling from 2020. The judge also noted Apple has periodically considered building its own search technology, but backed off that after a 2018 analysis estimated the company would lose more than $12billion in revenue during the first five years after a break-up with Google. Googles payments have helped Apples steadily growing services division, which generated $85billion in revenue during the companys last fiscal year. It comes after Apple in March was also sued by the US Department of Justice and 15 states alleging the iPhone maker monopolized the smartphone market, hurt smaller rivals and drove up prices. The California-based firm is also under regulatory scrutiny in Europe and was earlier this year hit with a $2billion fine for thwarting competition from music streaming rivals through restrictions on its App Store. The European Commission in June determined that App Store's rules breached the Digital Marketing Act (DMA), the first such charge by the regulator under the new rules. Other lawsuits include a class action filed on March 1 in San Jose, California federal court accusing the company of monopolizing the market for cloud storage in its mobile devices. Meta was also found to have breached the DMA in June after the EU regulator notified the company that its pay or consent advertising model, already the target of privacy regulators and activists' ire, was not in line with regulations. It was then slapped with a record $1.3billion fine by its lead EU privacy regulator in May 2023 over its handling of user information and given five months to stop transferring users' data to the US. The US Federal Trade Commission also filed a long-anticipated anti-trust lawsuit against Amazon.com in September, charging the company with harming consumers with higher prices. A spurned woman in China turned off her husband's life support after he suffered a severe brain bleed at his mistress's home and ended up in hospital. The 38-year-old man had been living with his mistress while still technically married, having left his wife some ten years prior. But after suffering a stroke at his lover's home and being taken to hospital, he was admitted to the ICU and fell into a coma. Doctors desperately reached out to his wife to get her permission to start surgery. When she arrived, she was told he stood a low chance of survival. The woman allegedly said her husband had been unfaithful and provided her no support, before refusing to sign the consent form and asking doctors to remove his tracheal tube and give up on trying to save him. File. A man fell into a coma after suffering a cerebral haemorrhage at his lover's home Doctors had initially sought consent from the man's mistress, but she had already left the hospital, NetEase News reports. Soon after, the man's wife arrived. Doctors told her that the equipment available would only be able to sustain him for a short time without surgery. The cost of surgery would also be very high, she was told, according to the South China Morning Post. The woman reportedly told doctors she had known about his 'infidelity' for more than ten years, and said he had no feelings for her. She said she also had not loved him for some time. It is unclear whether anybody else was consulted in her decision to ask doctors to turn off his life support. Cerebral haemorrhaging is a type of stroke causing bleeding inside the brain tissue. It happens when a weakened blood vessel in the brain starts to leak or suddenly bursts. The brain struggles to get all the oxygen and nutrients it needs, causing severe damage. These can happen to anybody, but are more likely if you have high blood pressure, use tobacco, take blood thinners or injure your head, among other things. In minor cases, doctors may prescribe medication to ease symptoms and prevent the condition worsening. But in severe cases, emergency surgery may be needed. Chinese doctors are required by law to inform a patient's family about any risks of surgery and obtain written consent before starting when the patient is not in a position to provide it themselves. In some cases, the head of the hospital can authorise surgery where there is disagreement on how to proceed. Deciding to turn off life support for another person remains a sensitive and controversial issue tied up in law around the world. File. Doctors in China asked the woman for consent to carry out risky surgery A 72-year-old woman was arrested in Germany in 2022 after allegedly switching off a hospital roommate's ventilator twice because she was annoyed by the sound it made. The woman was jailed on suspicion of attempted manslaughter after hospital staff allegedly saw her turning off the ventilator a second time, having been told earlier in the day that it was vital for the patient and had to be left on. The 79-year-old patient had to be revived but survived in intensive care. Ventilators blow oxygen into the lungs of patients enable to breathe without help. It is unclear what the elderly woman was suffering from when her ventilator was disconnected. At least four illegal boats have been intercepted by the Australian border authorities in the last 24 hours. Four wooden vessels were found hiding in the mangroves of Kuri Bay, some 370km north-east of Broome in Western Australia's far north, on Tuesday. Local Dambimangari traditional owner Adrian Lane was creating a cultural map of the area's local fish crop when he first noticed the first boat 'high and dry' in the mangroves. Local tour operator Peter Tucker then reported the illegal vessel and later met a patrol boat to lead them to it. 'They appreciated our assistance, because they don't know the country like we do, and we took them down to the areas,' he told the ABC. There's been an uptick in illegal fishing and asylum seeker boats in the Kimberley region in recent years, according to Mr Lane. Asylum seeker boats have also arrived at Truscott and Beagle Bay in recent months. Mr Tucker said he has spotted several boats hidden in 'hidey holes' over the last few months but noted the groups often flee before authorities can arrive. Four illegal wooden boats (left) were caught by the Australian Border Force (right) on Tuesday morning Local Indigenous man Adrian Lane assisted authorities in locating four wooden vessels hiding in the mangroves of Kuri Bay, some 370km north-east of Broome 'We weren't surprised (by the sightings) because we had been seeing them for a while,' Mr Tucker told the West Australian. 'Our reaction was of somewhat of elation because finally the authorities have managed to assist and catch and apprehend them. 'They've been quite prevalent on the Kimberley coast this year and I guess today was a good day because they are coming down in big numbers.' Mr Lane doesn't believe the border force is doing enough to stop the illegal boats and is particularly worried about their effects on 'the health of the country'. 'We're doing stuff out of passion for our country and our obligation to our culture but then you've got a body that's supposed to be protecting these areas of higher value,' Mr Lane told the ABC. 'To me they've got no idea, they're just getting direction from Canberra.' Locals reported an uptick in illegal fishing and asylum seeker boats in the Kimberley region but noted the groups often flee before authorities can arrive (pictured, the ABF on Tuesday) In a statement to Daily Mail Australia, the Australian Border Force said: 'Operation LEEDSTRUM ensures an increased patrol and response capability in far north west Australia, including increased staffing, patrol vehicles and a rotary wing asset for rapid response to any BorderWatch reporting from members of the public. 'The operational response is ongoing and ABF will not comment any further than say ABF/MBC pursues strong enforcement action in cases of illegal foreign fishing, in consultation with AFMA.' The interception comes a week after Tony Burke took over Clare O'Neil as federal home affairs minister. Seattle radio station KEXP is expanding its presence in the Bay Area with a new weekly local music series broadcast from KQED studios. Its regular broadcast will continue from the Seattle Center. KEXP Seattle radio station KEXP is expanding its presence in the Bay Area with a new weekly local music series broadcast from KQED studios. This move includes the relocation of KEXPs local staff to the KQED offices, the station announced Tuesday, Aug. 6. KEXP began broadcasting throughout the region in March after acquiring San Franciscos 92.7 FM signal for $3.75 million through a bankruptcy auction last year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The new live show, Vinelands, will premiere on Saturday, Aug. 17. Hosted by producer and musician Kelley Stoltz and radio talent Gabriel Lopez, the program will explore the music of Northern California, with a focus on Bay Area artists, across various genres. I am really looking forward to sharing my favorite songs and artists from the Bay Areas rich history to the present day, Stoltz said in a statement. I remember it was such a thrill when my songs first got played on KEXP 20 years ago, and Im so glad I get to share that feeling with other musicians here in the Bay Area. Vinelands will air from 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturdays on 92.7 FM and will be livestreamed via KEXP.org and the KEXP apps exclusively in Northern California, with rotating hosts every two weeks. The program will be broadcast from KQED studios in San Franciscos Potrero Hill neighborhood, marking a new partnership between the two institutions and paving the way for potential future digital programming collaborations. To celebrate the launch, KEXP DJ John Richards was set to broadcast his regular morning show live from KQED on Aug. 12-14. Advertisement Article continues below this ad KEXP was built on the support of our local music scene in Seattle. Our local scene responded by supporting and championing us in turn, Richards said in a statement. We have always been lucky to be rooted in an area that has an amazing and diverse music community, and we see the same opportunity in the Bay Area. We want to champion and give a voice to musicians who may have never been played on the radio before. We want this community to have a home on the air. KEXP will continue its broadcasts from its Seattle Center headquarters more than 800 miles away, offering the same programming on 90.3 FM Seattle and 92.7 FM San Francisco, with some local variations, such as the events guide. Vinelands will be its first music show dedicated to Bay Area audiences. My main goal with Vinelands is to build a bridge between KEXP listeners and the rich musical history of the Bay, Lopez said in a statement. This is a place that birthed Sylvester and the Aislers Set, SOBxRBE and King Woman. It is truly an honor to give some shine to a place I am truly grateful to call home. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Eluned Morgan has become the third Welsh First Minister in five months as she officially took on the role today. The 57-year-old was confirmed as the new First Minister this morning as the Welsh Senedd was recalled from its summer break. She replaces her Labour colleague Vaughan Gething, who quit after just 118 days leading the Welsh Government. Baroness Morgan was last month elected unopposed as the Welsh Labour leader but had to wait to be confirmed as First Minister in a vote in the Senedd. In today's rare summer sitting of the Senedd, members of the Welsh Parliament backed her to become the first woman to take on the role. She was nominated with the support of 28 Senedd members, while Welsh Conservatives leader Andrew RT Davies won 15 votes and Plaid Cymru's Rhun up Iorwerth 12 votes. There was one abstention, from Liberal Democrat Jane Dodds. Eluned Morgan has become the third Welsh First Minister in five months as she officially took on the role today Vaughan Gething, pictured with PM Sir Keir Starmer last month, quit as first minister after just 118 days leading the Welsh Government Giving a speech in both English and Welsh after she was confirmed as First Minister, Baroness Morgan said: 'It is the honour of my life to stand before you today as the first woman to become the First Minister of Wales.' She paid tribute to Mr Gething as 'another true trailblazer' in the journey of devolution, as well as her other predecessors Alun Michael, Rhodri Morgan, Carwyn Jones and Mark Drakeford. The new First Minister said she hoped to 'add my own distinctive contribution to this legacy', adding: 'Perhaps with a vibrant splash of colour. The grey suits are out.' Baroness Morgan also acknowledged the difficulties Welsh Labour had faced in recent weeks and months. She told the Senedd: 'The last few weeks have been difficult and we have been through some turmoil. 'But we know that we are at our best when we work in unity as a party and as a nation.' Mr Gething announced his intention to resign after four members of his government quit in July while criticising his leadership. During the last Welsh Labour leadership race, as he ran to replace Mr Drakeford, Mr Gething took a 200,000 donation for his campaign from a company owned by a man twice convicted of environmental offences This led to some members of his own party criticising his judgment. In June, Mr Gething lost a vote of no confidence in the Senedd, after rows over the donation and his decision to sack Hannah Blythyn as a minister. Baroness Morgan, the Welsh health secretary, ran to replace Mr Gething on a 'unity ticket' and promised to bring the Labour group back together. The Senedd Labour group has said it is time to 'move on from recent events' and to get on with delivering for communities. Mr Davies said: 'The Welsh Conservatives congratulate Eluned Morgan on her election as First Minister of Wales. 'For the last few months, the Welsh Labour Government has been so busy with infighting it has further neglected our public services 'And Wales needs someone in the top job now who can drive down our waiting lists, improve educational attainment and turbocharge our economy. 'Sadly, on the basis of her record, there is little reason to believe Eluned Morgan will be that person.' The mother of a teenage boy who was killed in a machete attack faces fresh agony today after being told one of his killers will be released just six months into his jail term due to prison overcrowding. Gordon Gault, 14, died in hospital six days after he was attacked with a blade during an ongoing feud in Elswick, Newcastle, in November 2022. After a trial at Newcastle Crown Court Carlos Neto, 18, and Lawson Natty, also 18, were convicted of manslaughter and unlawful wounding. Neto, from Manchester, was jailed for nine years and two months, while Natty, from Newcastle, was handed two years and eight months at their sentence hearings in March. But Gordon's mum Dionne Barrett was left devastated when she received a letter confirming Natty's early release at the weekend. Gordon Gault, 14, died in hospital six days after he was attacked with a blade during an ongoing feud in Elswick, Newcastle, in November 2022 Gordon Gault, 14, with his mother, Dionne Barrett, who is horrified by the news Lawson Natty could be released as early as September, just six months after he was sentenced for the killing Amid prison overcrowding the Conservatives began early releases prior to the election, with the new Labour government confirming this would continue amid a prisons crisis. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson told MailOnline that any violent offender with a sentence under four years is eligible for early release under the scheme. Although those convicted of sex offences and domestic abuse are exempt, other violent offenders, including killers convicted of manslaughter, can be released. Ms Barrett said: 'We are absolutely devastated. They rang me on Friday and said he was getting out because of the overcrowding and then they put it in writing to me. 'Fair enough letting petty criminals out for shoplifting but he has been done for manslaughter and he has only done a few months. 'I just cannot get my head around it. This is the same week those girls were murdered in Southport and he is getting out. What kind of example is that?' She added: 'We have had not justice whatsoever for Gordon.' The trial heard that a second youth, who couldn't be named, was slashed during the same violent confrontation but survived. Gordon Gault, 14, who was fatally injured in Elswick, Newcastle on November 9, 2022, is pictured on life support during his last days Fellow killer Carlos Neto is not eligible for release due to his sentence being more than nine years The letter said: 'Due to significant issues within the prison population, the Lord Chancellor has announced plans to introduce a change to the law which will allow some prisoners serving determined sentence to be released on license early. 'Prisoners who meet the criteria will be released after serving 40 per cent of their sentence in custody rather than the 50 per cent they serve now. 'These changes are due to happen from September so no prisoner will be released under the scheme prior to that time. 'We have been advised that Lawson Natty meets the criteria for this scheme so I'm writing to inform you that the release will be brought forward. 'The revised release date will be in the week beginning September 9, 2024.' The letter said Natty will be managed by the Probation Service and subject to licence conditions. He will be required to comply with all conditions and failure to do so could result in him being sent back to prison. The letter ended by saying: 'I appreciate that this news will be unwelcome.' Neto is not eligible for early release after being sentenced to more than nine years in jail. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: 'The Government has had to take action to ensure we have enough prison places so police can continue to take dangerous criminals off the streets and keep the public safe. 'All offenders released on licence are subject to strict conditions and we do not hesitate to recall them to custody if they break the rules.' Guidance: A 1,000 bounty has been put on the head of a fugitive mother on the run over a secret cocaine gang operating at her countryside farm. Farmer's wife Lynne Leyson, 52, led a hidden double-life as the 'godmother' of a crime gang behind her respectable front of being a normal rural mother on the family farm. But she fled before being jailed for nine years - and her mugshot has been issued to all UK police forces along with a false name she may be using. She has been on the run for more than a year and is believed to go under a string of aliases after skipping bail. Crimestoppers is offering a wanted reward of up to 1,000. She has also been added to their 'Most Wanted' section of British fugitives. Farmer's wife Lynne Leyson operated a hidden double life as the godmother of a family crime gang Police recovered a 9mm semi-automatic handgun which was found stashed at the farm 15,615 of cannabis was seized by the police at Pibwr Farm, near Capel Dewi, Carmarthenshire Detective Chief Inspector Rhys Jones said: 'I urge anyone with information of Leyson's whereabouts to come forward. 'You can speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, which is offering a reward of up to 1,000 for information leading to her arrest. 'She is known to have connections in the Carmarthen and Swansea area but may have travelled further afield. Someone knows where she is or has been over the last few months. Please come forward with any information.' Neighbours thought she was a respectable country mother - but she was the godmother of family crime gang supplying multi-kilo quantities of cocaine and cannabis to dealers from the isolated smallholding. Her husband Stephen Leyson and his son Samson were jailed for a total of 17 years in July after the farm was raided by police. But Lynne Leyson vanished before she was due in court to face justice - and was sentenced by her judge in her absence. A judge said the mother was a 'dominant force' who played a 'leading role' in the drugs enterprise. The court heard officers targeted Pibwr Farm, near Capel Dewi, Carmarthenshire, in the early hours of October 27, 2021. Lynne's husband Stephen Leyson was jailed for 11 years for his role in the cocaine ring The couple's son Samson was jailed for six years in July after the farm was raided by police The family claimed that cash seized by police was from a 'house sale' They recovered over 60,000 of cocaine, 15,615 of cannabis, a 9mm semi-automatic handgun and cash - which they claimed was from a 'house sale.' In a Proceeds of Crime hearing, Ieuan Rees, prosecuting, told Swansea Crown Court both Stephen and Lynne Leyson benefited from their criminal lifestyle to the tune of 77,967. Investigators have identified available assets in respect of Stephen in the sum of 33,147 and in respect of Lynne in the sum of 26,442. Samson Leyson benefited from his involvement to the tune of 69,795 and investigators have identified assets - including a TAG Heuer Formula 1 watch - worth 9,550. Judge Catherine Richards made confiscation orders in the available sums for the three Leysons, and gave them three months to pay or face additional jail time. The judge said she was 'quite sure' Lynne Leyson would be arrested and brought before a court 'at some point'. Swansea Crown Court heard husband and wife Stephen and Lynne Leyson denied any wrongdoing when they were questioned. Lynne Leyson was found guilty by a jury of conspiracy to supply cocaine, conspiracy to supply cannabis, and possessing criminal property. A bench warrant was issued after she previously failed to turn up to court for sentencing - and she has now been jailed for nine years in her absence. After the case, one near-neighbour said: 'We just couldn't believe it. 'They seemed like a normal farming family, well a bit rough around the edges like a lot of country people. Lynne seemed very normal really - not a cocaine dealer like she was. It is all very odd.' A Crimestoppers appeal said: 'Arrest enquiries have been conducted at known addresses where Lynne is likely to frequent. These premises are across Carmarthen and parts of Swansea. To date these have been negative enquiries. Enquiries to date have returned negative results. A request is being made for Lynne Leyson aka Annelyn Caldicot to be placed on Crimestoppers as a wanted person. She is described as 5ft 4in, black hair, Brown eyes, right handed, surgical scar on left leg and has a Welsh accent. Anyone who sees her is asked to call anonymously on 0800 555 111. The family of a man kicked and stamped on by police at Manchester Airport today revealed details of a 'racist tirade' which they said sparked violent scenes. Brothers Fahir Amaaz, 19, and Muhammad Amaad, 25, are alleged to have sprung to their mother Shameem Akhtar's defence after she claimed that she was subjected to an hours-long barrage during a flight from Pakistan to the UK last month. Mrs Akhtar, 56, said she feared she would be physically attacked by the 6ft passenger, a Kuwaiti national, after Qatar Airways cabin crew allegedly did nothing to stop him - even when he reportedly used a racial slur against her. Mrs Akhtar broke down as she was greeted by her sons at the arrivals gate, who challenged the passenger, leading to unsavoury scenes captured on camera which sent shockwaves around the world. Aamer Anwar, the family's solicitor, today said that there had been a deliberate attempt to smear the brothers. Solicitor Aamer Anwar, second from right, accompanies brothers Muhammad Amaad (left), Fahir Amaaz (right) and their mother, Shameem Akhtar Mrs Akhtar was left with a cut and bruising to her face after allegedly being struck by an officer Footage of a police officer kicking Muhammed Fahir, 19, while he was arrested alongside his brother Amaad Mr Anwar claimed police leaked information in an attempt to discredit the brothers and influence an investigation by the police watchdog into what happened. At a press conference, Mr Anwar said: 'The deliberate attempt by some within Greater Manchester Police or so-called police sources to present a version of events to the media in the immediate aftermath and then to claim publicly that they have cooperated with the IOPC investigation is deeply unhelpful and can be seen as nothing more than a deliberate and cynical attempt to manipulate and mould a narrative of events and untruths.' Mr Anwar, a high-profile Scottish human rights lawyer, said: 'Despite the attempt by some to place disinformation in the media, and on social media, the young men sat next to me do not have a single conviction or indeed a speeding ticket.' He added: 'Today is about setting the record straight and issuing a warning to Greater Manchester Police, that leaking or using so-called police sources to justify alleged criminality by their officers can only be seen as a deliberate attempt to interfere with the IOPC investigation.' He said the family had been subject to abuse online since the incident, but appealed for members of the community to exercise calm and not to cause police resources to be diverted at a time when race-hate riots are going on across the country linked to the Southport stabbings. Mr Anwar said it was important to provide 'context' about the incident. Setting out the events of July 23, he said one of the brothers one of whom he revealed had previously applied to join Greater Manchester Police had confronted the alleged abuser after spotting him at a Starbucks concession. Minutes later, the brothers were arrested by armed police as they paid for parking, with Fahir unleashing a flurry of blows at two female officers in scenes captured on leaked CCTV. Mrs Akhtar, demonstrating her injuries after allegedly being struck at Manchester Airport Mrs Akhtar sustained a nasty bruise underneath her eye Mrs Akhtar said she was racially abused on her flight to Manchester from Pakistan Mrs Akhtar, 56, appears tearful as she faces the media Shortly afterwards, the male officer who has since been suspended pending an investigation by the police watchdog was filmed by onlookers' mobile phones kicking the younger brother in the head as he lay on the floor having been Tasered. Speaking flanked by the brothers and their mother in their first public appearance at a central Manchester hotel today, Mr Anwar claimed the male officer had threatened to kill Fahir. And he demanded to know why the officers allegedly did not have their bodycams switched on during the violent altercation. Mr Anwar also claimed the scenes contrasted to the way officers faced with 'grotesque' attacks from rioting anti-immigration protesters in recent days had not 'taken the law into their own hands'. He said he was holding the press conference in response to a 'deliberate attempt to smear the family and portray incomplete version of events', including by police sources since the arrest footage went viral. Spelling out for the first time the alleged abuse suffered by Mrs Akhtar which 'sparked' what followed, Mr Anwar claimed police had decided there was insufficient evidence to charge the passenger with any offence and that the suspect was due to fly home to Kuwait today. Solictor Mr Anwar, brothers Mr Amaad (left) and Mr Amaaz, and their mother Mrs Akhtar face the media Mrs Akhtar began to feel unwell on her flight when she was allegedly racially abused As Ammad appears to throw a barrage of punches at a male police officer, his brother Fahir smashes a female officer in the face Fahir now rounds on the male officer, who has a Taser trained on his brother Amaad, and jumps on his back Mr Anwar said Mrs Akhtar began to feel ill on the flight and so started using a vacant seat next to her on the flight to get comfortable. The passenger behind her then subjected her to 'a tirade of alleged racial abuse', including a racial slur. Cabin crew did nothing, Mr Anwar said, and the passenger continued with his offensive language despite requests from his wife to stop. The row escalated at baggage return, Mr Anwar said, when the passenger used his luggage to bump into her. She broke down in tears when she saw her sons at the arrivals gate, and explained that cabin crew failed to intervene. The brothers challenged the passenger, and then left the airport terminal, Mr Anwar said. Amaad, 25, went to defend his mother, Mrs Akhtar Fahir, 19, was Tasered by police Members of the media gather for the speech by solicitor Mr Anwar, flanked by the brothers and their mother The press conference heard three police officers then approached and one grabbed Fahir by the wrist, and allegedly hit his head into a ticket machine with a hand around his neck. The family said the officer refused to remove his neckhold, then punched Amaad twice in the head and struck the brothers' mother. Mrs Akhtar is then alleged to have shouted 'They killed my son' in Urdu after she noticed the older brother had been Tasered. Fahir was also Tasered. Mr Anwar disputed claims Fahir reached for a police firearm while prone on the ground. He said: 'It is at this point, as the officer stands up, he proceeds to run and kick Fahir in the face. 'Mrs Akhtar then tried to pull her son's head away, and the officer then attempts to stand on his head, as can be seen in the graphic video. Both brothers are compliant The officer then proceeds to lift his foot up and appears to stamp down on Fahir's head.' After Fahir was Tasered and lying limp on the floor, the male officer allegedly 'strikes Mrs Akhtar directly in the face using his Taser as a weapon', Mr Anwar said, causing cuts from which bruises remain visible today. Mr Anwar said the brothers claim that after they were handcuffed and taken away, the male officer told Fahir 'you dirty f****** c*** - you think you can hit my officers, I am going to kill you when I see you, in my uniform or out'. He said Fahir asked 'why is your body camera not on' to which the officer allegedly retorted 'I'll show you why' and grabbed him by the neck and handcuffs. The constable then allegedly dragged Fahir out of sight and threw him to the ground, placed his knee on the back of his neck and asked 'Do you want my camera on now you dirty c***?' 'At this point fearing for his life all Fahir claims he is thinking is that he is going to kill him,' Mr Anwar said. 'He stays quiet and doesn't say a word.' The brothers were arrested on suspicion of affray and assaulting an emergency worker before being bailed. Neither they nor their mother addressed reporters today. Mr Anwar has now said the family are calling for all footage and material relating to the incident to be retained, 'especially those where the detainees were taken to in other areas of the airport'. Mr Anwar said: 'The family wish to put on record that if the two young men sat next to me and seen on video and stand accused of criminality, their family fully support that they must face robust legal due process.' He said police must 'be held to account' if they get it wrong, but said officers should be praised for facing 'right-wing, racist thugs' spreading disorder across Britain. And he said the family 'fully support that they (the brothers) must face robust due legal process if accused of any criminal behaviour. He has said there are issues on both sides over the violent scenes, stressing that the footage so far made public did not show the whole picture. A GMP spokesman said: 'Investigations into incidents that occurred at Manchester Airport on 23 July are ongoing, we are fully cooperating with the independent investigation reviewing police conduct, whilst actively pursuing lines of enquiry into three incidents. 'We have obtained all relevant CCTV footage and are continuing to appeal for witnesses.' Anyone with information is asked to contact police. Children's products are under investigation by Australia's consumer watchdog over fears they could be dangerous for kids. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is investigating the safety of children's car seat head straps and baby bottle self-feeding devices, after the assistant treasurer issued warning notices for both products. Both products have been linked to fatalities overseas, the ACCC has said. The straps attach to the top of car seats and are predominantly marketed online by third-party sellers as useful accessories that help keep children's head up while driving. They come in multiple designs and colours. Concerns have been raised with the ACCC that the products may 'alter the alignment of a child's head, neck and spine while the torso moves forward during a motor vehicle accident'. This could increase the risk of possible spinal cord injuries and potential death, and presents a possible risk of suffocation or strangulation should the head strap slip around the child's mouth or neck. While there have been no fatalities in Australia, the ACCC said an eight-month-old infant was killed in the UK in 2021 as a result of suffocation connected to a head strap. The ACCC has warned the head straps could cause injury or death to a young child Australian consumer law prevents suppliers of child restrains from selling the product, but this does not stop them from being sold online. Australian consumer law prevents suppliers of child restrains from selling the product, but this does not stop them from being sold online. Meanwhile, the baby bottle self-feeding devices are warned as a potential choking hazard for infants who cannot regulate the flow of milk, and a suffocation risk. These products fall into two categories - 'self-feeding pillows', which are often referred to as 'anti spitting pillows' or 'baby feeding pillows/bottle holders', and hands-free baby bottle holders which commonly attach to bibs, prams, or cots. Both types may cause an infant to choke as they cannot control the flow of the liquid. The ACCC warns they also increase the risk of suffocation if the baby's head moves, leading it to be smothered. The self-feeding devices are also being investigated. The use of baby bottle self-feeding products is not recommended according to Commonwealth, state and territory government advice. The ACCC is aware of four fatalities associated with self-feeding products and propped products in the US and UK since 2015. There are currently no mandatory product safety or information standards that apply to these products in Australia. Safety warning notices have been issued to warn consumers of the possible risks or injury or death to infants associated with the products. 'The ACCC is investigating the safety of both of these products to determine if they will or may cause injury to any person, and the extent to which regulatory action is needed to prevent their supply or mitigate safety risks,' ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said. The ACCC is warning parents not to use the products 'Aftermarket children's car seat head straps are marketed as a support for sleeping children, but the safety warning notice issued about these products warns about the possible risk that in motor vehicle accidents they may cause severe head, neck, and spinal cord injuries.' Ms Lowe said the baby bottle self-feeding devices are designed to feed infants without assistance, but it can cause suffocation, aspiration pneumonia, choking or ear infection. 'While the ACCC is not aware of any reports where these products have been directly linked to injuries or deaths in Australia, alarmingly there have been reports of fatalities overseas,' she said. 'Protecting vulnerable young children and strengthening product safety online are priorities for the ACCC,' Ms Lowe said. Elon Musk's estranged trans daughter has branded him a 'serial adulterer' in a wild post to social media. Vivian Wilson, 20, posted on X's arch viral site Threads, owned by Mark Zuckerberg's Meta, calling her father out on a number of issues. Wilson described the Tesla CEO as not being christian, claimed he didn't care about climate change and was lying about his Mars colonization program. She also called him out over a number of discrimination cases filed against the SpaceX boss and claimed he once described Arabic as 'the language of the enemy'. Wilson said: 'I understand your new angle is this 'western values/christian family man' thing but its such a weird choice.' Wilson, pictured here, described the Tesla CEO as not being christian, claimed he didn't care about climate change and was lying about his Mars colonization program She also called Musk out over a number of discrimination cases filed against the SpaceX boss and claimed he once described Arabic as 'the language of the enemy' She continued: 'You are not a family man, you are a serial adulterer who wont stop f****** lying about your own children. 'You are not a christian, as far as Im aware youve never stepped foot in a church. You are not some 'bastion for equality/progress'. 'You called Arabic the 'language of the enemy' when I was 6, have been sued for discrimination multiple times, and are from Apartheid South Africa.' Wilson added: 'You are not 'saving the planet', you do not give a f*** about climate change and youre lying about multi-planetary civilization as both an excuse, and because you want to seem like the CEO from Ready Player One. 'I would mention the birth rate stuff, but I am not touching that weird 14-words breeder shit with a ten foot pole. 'You single-handedly disillusioned me with how gullible we are as a species because somehow people keep believing you for reasons that continue to evade me.' The South African billionaire 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, the mother of Vivian, musician Grimes and his employee, Shivon Zilis. His youngest child, with Zilis, was born in 2024. In March of this year, his company Tesla settled a long running lawsuit by a Black former factory worker who claimed he was subjected to severe racial harassment. Former elevator operator at the company's California assembly plant Owen Diaz received an undisclosed settlement from his former employer. In his lawsuit filed in 2017, Diaz said African American employees at the factory, were regularly subjected to racist epithets and derogatory imagery. A jury awarded $3.2 million in damages last year, while another in 2021 awarded him $137 million, one of the largest verdicts ever in a discrimination case involving a single worker. But a judge found that the verdict was excessive and ordered a second trial after Diaz refused a lowered award of $15 million. Diaz claimed that when he worked at the plant he was subjected to racial slurs, scrawled swastikas and other racist conduct, and that Tesla ignored his complaints. Tesla faces similar claims of tolerating race bias at the plant in a pending class action which involves 6,000 workers. The company has denied wrongdoing in those cases. Vivian and Musk have been engaged in a war of words with each other on socials after Musk said he was tricked into Wilson being allowed to go on puberty blockers. Referring to Wilson with male pronouns and by her birth name, Musk claimed that his 'son' had been 'killed by the woke mind virus'. Wilson pushed back on this last month, challenging a tweet from her father in which he claimed that she was born 'gay and slightly autistic'. 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. Wilson shot down his claims saying her father had made them up as he wasn't around her as a child. She claims that Musk would relentlessly harass her for her 'femininity and queerness'. Vivian also added that she was legally recognized as a woman in the state of California and that her father was 'determined for attention and validation'. The father and daughter have long had a contentious relationship, with Musk having called her a 'communist' who thinks 'anyone rich is evil'. In his interview, Musk called what happened to him and his family 'evil', saying: 'I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys. '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. I was told Xavier might commit suicide.' When asked about gender dysphoria, he added: 'It's incredibly evil and I agree with you that the people that are promoting this should go to prison. 'I was tricked into doing this. It wasn't explained to me that puberty blockers are actually just sterilization drugs. 'I lost my son, essentially. They call it 'deadnaming' for a reason. The reason they call it 'deadnaming' is because your son is dead, so my son, Xavier, is dead, killed by the woke mind virus.' Musk is seen here with his second wife Talulah Riley in 2015 with Xavier, now Vivian, and Griffin Musk kisses his then fiancee Talulah Riley as they stand with Musk's twin boys Griffin, left, and Xavier, now known as Vivian Deadnaming is what transgender people typically refer to others calling them by the name they went by before they began to transition. Musk said that his right-wing awakening has been spurred on by this process and the trickery he claims was played upon him. 'I vowed to destroy the woke mind virus after that and we're making some progress,' he said. Wilson legally changed her gender to female and her name from 'Xavier' to Vivian Jenna Wilson in 2022, while revealing in court filings she 'no longer wishes to be related' to Musk 'in any way'. Vivian filed the petition just three days after her 18th birthday, though the court documents weren't made public until the day after Fathers Day. Vivian reportedly came out as transgender via text to her aunt when she was 16, but implored her to keep her gender identity from her father. High winds and torrential rain are not the only things tropical storm Debby has blown in - with 25 tightly wrapped packages of cocaine unearthed by the wild weather. Debby, which hit the state's northern Big Bend region as a Category One hurricane but has since been downgraded to a tropical storm, washed the trove of drugs ashore along Florida's southernmost tip. 'Hurricane Debby blew 25 packages of cocaine (70 lbs.) onto a beach in the Florida Keys,' US Border Patrol acting chief patrol Agent Samuel Briggs II wrote on X. The load of drugs, which Briggs reported was valued at more than $1 million, was discovered by a Good Samaritan who contacted the authorities. It is just the latest case of drugs being washed up on Florida's shores, which often see hauls of illicit substances appear due to the state's proximity to Caribbean transit hubs for trafficking from South America to the US and Europe. The 25 packages of cocaine that Hurricane Debby blew onto a beach in the Florida Keys are seen in this US Border Patrol photo obtained August 5, 2024 A close up of two of the packets. Authorities said the haul of drugs was found by a Good Samaritan, who contacted them In June, recreational boaters off the coast of the Florida Keys found 65 pounds of cocaine floating in the ocean, again worth an estimated street value of over $1 million, according to Briggs. Earlier in the month, divers discovered 25kg of cocaine about 100ft underwater off Key West. Just a day later, the same amount of suspected cocaine was washed up on Dauphin Island, Alabama. In July of 2023, the mayor of Tampa, Florida incredibly discovered 70 pounds (31.7 kilograms) of cocaine that had been washed ashore in the Florida Keys, while enjoying a vacation day. And in 2019, bricks of cocaine were found on two Florida beaches after Hurricane Dorian hit the coast. Briggs did not give the location for the latest discovery but posted a picture of the haul on X. It shows the tightly-wrapped packs with a black label featuring a red arrow. It is not known where the cocaine has come from, but it can only be assumed it was lost by smugglers during the severe weather conditions caused by storm Debby. Tropical Storm Debby has wreaked havoc on the coast of Florida. Pictured: Sailboats that have come untied and crashed into the seawall in Tampa Buildings sit along the coast line as the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood in Cedar Key, Florida A man looks at a boat tied to a dock, while Hurricane Debby hit the gulf coast in Steinhatchee, Florida, on Monday The tropical storm has had devastating consequences along the Southeast coast after it made landfall as a hurricane on Monday, before being downgraded. It has killed at least six people, knocked out power for hundreds of thousands, and has resulted in life-threatening storm surges as well as catastrophic flooding. The National Hurricane Centre has said that the storm's slow movement could result in 'potentially historic heavy rainfall across southeast Georgia and eastern South Carolina through Friday' which will 'likely result in catastrophic flooding'. President Joe Biden approved a request from Florida for an emergency declaration, and has since approved similar requests from the governors of Georgia and South Carolina. North Carolina is also under a state of emergency after Governor Roy Cooper declared it in an executive order signed on Monday. The white sheriff's deputy who shot a black woman dead inside her Illinois home after she called 911 claimed he felt threatened when she called on Jesus' name. Deputy Sean Grayson, 30, said he believed that when 36-year-old Sonya Massey said, 'I rebuke you in the name of Jesus,' that she intended deadly harm, according to his field report. 'I interpreted this to mean she was going to kill me,' Grayson wrote, adding that when he drew his pistol and Massey ducked behind a counter that separated them, he moved around the obstacle fearing that she was going to grab a weapon. Grayson and a second unidentified deputy had answered Massey's call about a suspected prowler just before 1am on July 7. Inside her home, Grayson directed that a pan of water be removed from a burner on the stove. Grayson and Massey shared a chuckle as he warily moved away from the 'hot steaming water.' Deputy Sean Grayson's gun drawn as Sonya Massey cowers for cover in her kitchen on July 6 'Sonya turned to face me holding the pot. I did not know the type of liquid that was boiling,' Grayson wrote in his report three days after the incident. 'I advised Sonya to put the boiling liquid down. Sonya stated (she) was going to rebuke me in the name of Jesus. She stated this twice. I interpreted this to mean she was going to kill me.' Grayson then drew his pistol and barked commands to 'drop the (expletive) pot.' Massey ducked behind the counter, rose up and appeared to grab the pan again before diving for cover. Grayson said he stepped toward and around the counter to keep Massey in sight, wary that she might have a hidden weapon. 'As I approached the cabinet, Sonya stood up from a crouched position, grabbing the pot, raising it above her head and throwing the boiling substance at me,' Grayson reported. 'I was in imminent fear of getting boiling liquid to my face or chest, which would have caused great bodily harm or death.' Grayson has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct charges in Massey's killing This undated photo provided by the family's lawyers in July 2024 shows Sonya Massey Its unclear from the video whether Massey attempted to toss the pans contents, and she was obscured from view when Grayson fired three 9 mm rounds, one of which struck Massey just below the eye. His report then indicates he looked down to see the liquid had 'hit my boots and I observed steam coming from the cabinet area.' By the time Grayson completed the field report July 9, he had been placed on administrative leave. The document indicates he received department permission to review the body camera video, the bulk of which had been recorded on the other deputys camera. Grayson said he thought his was on when the two first met Massey at the door, but he didnt turn it on until just after the shooting. The other deputys report was not part of the release, which included seven other officers reports of their activities at the site of the shooting and all completed on July 6 and one completed July 7, heavily redacted before release, by a deputy who had a casual conversation with someone who was familiar with Massey. Grayson faces first-degree murder, aggravated battery and official misconduct charges in the death of the Springfield woman which has drawn nationwide protests over the killing of Black people by police in their homes. He has pleaded not guilty. Masseys family meanwhile has called for the resignation of Sheriff Jack Campbell who has refused to step down arguing that problems in Graysons past should have precluded a law enforcement assignment. The family has hired civil rights attorney Ben Crump. Masseys family has said that she struggled with mental health issues. She met the deputies at her front door by repeating, 'Please God' and inside the house, asked Grayson to pass her a Bible. A Pennsylvania school board member could be fired over a crude post about Kamala Harris. Souderton official Bill Formica is facing calls to resign after writing the 'inappropriate' post on X last week. The Republican board member was replying to a post by another X user which asked what is 'one thing this chick [Harris] has accomplished?' To which Formica replied: 'She blew a lot of dudes'. Harris has been subjected to attacks surrounding her previous relationship with a married but politician in the 1990s which have intensified since she became the Democrat nominee. Philadelphia school board member Bill Formica could be fired over a crude post about Kamala Harris The backlash against Formica's Harris post was swift, with a petition calling for his removal racking up almost 1,500 signatures so far. 'As a teacher in the district I know how much emphasis we put on teaching our students that "Character Counts", that bullying in any form is not acceptable, and that inappropriate social media use has consequences,' educator Christine Jackson wrote in a comment. 'We teach the importance of building others up regardless of differences in opinions, race, gender, or political stance and that every student (male or female) can achieve something better for themselves through diligent work. 'Mr Formica's comment demonstrates that he has no understanding of these ideals and he should not be representing the district or be making decisions for the children living in this community.' The controversy prompted the school board to issue a statement on the matter. 'Last week, one of our School Board members used inappropriate language and poor judgement in a comment posted on social media regarding Vice President Kamala Harris,' the statement said. 'The comments or actions of an individual board member, administrator or employee of the District do not represent the board as a whole, the administration or others in our employee groups. Formica posted on X insinuating the Vice President had achieved her career by using her sexuality The backlash against Formica's Harris post was swift, with a petition calling for his removal racking up almost 1,500 signatures so far 'The Board has asked for some time to process this situation and that time is being afforded. 'Words matter. Respect matters. Our schools and offices must be spaces where diverse opinions are honored but where respect is required.' However the post is not the first time he has made inflammatory marks about politicians. In one post about Democrat Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez he wrote: 'Horse face is an imbecile'. He also branded Michelle Obama 'a racist full of hate (and a dude).' While in another reply Formica appeared to take aim at educators. 'Why does everyone still gush over teachers?' He wrote. 'They have a great gig. 'Can't be fired, only work nine months of the year, great pension and no accountability for their performance. There are many jobs that are much worse.' Formica, far right, has a history of making offensive posts about left wing politicians Formica was appointed to the school board last summer from a list of Republican candidates. 'Students have a right to a balanced and unbiased education,' Formica said on his campaign website at the time. 'As a school, it is our duty to keep politics and employee viewpoints out of the classrooms and maintain a level of respect for all students and staff members.' His appointment garnered some controversy at the time due to his use of Three Percenter antigovernmental militia insignia on his vehicles. DailyMail.com has contacted Formica and the school board for comment. A 'standing army' of 6,000 specialist police officers are ready to be deployed at trouble hotspots as the Government steps up efforts to deal with the riots crisis. Ministers are also overseeing moves to provide an extra 500 prison places as far-right thugs were warned courts could sit through the night to bring them to justice. Those involved in the violence on Britain's streets, which has broken out in the wake of the Southport stabbings, have been told they could face up to 10 years in jail. It comes after the widespread disorder stretched into a week, with police injured during 'sustained violence' in Plymouth yesterday. Similar trouble on the streets of Darlington saw officers pelted with bricks. Police officers with dogs intervene during clashes at Guildhall Square in Plymouth yesterday Justice minister Heidi Alexander said 567 additional prison spaces would soon come into use Justice minister Heidi Alexander today said 567 additional prison spaces would soon come into use. 'We will make sure that anyone who is given a custodial sentence as a result of the riots and disorder, there will be a prison place waiting for them,' she told BBC Radio 4's Today programme. Extra cells at HMP Stocken, Rutland, will be in use from 'next week', Ms Alexander said, with plans also in place to use space at Cookham Wood Young Offender Institution in Kent for adult prisoners. She also revealed more detail about the planned 'standing army' of police officers Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced yesterday afternoon. Ms Alexander told Times Radio: 'These are police officers who have had specialist training in dealing with public order offences. 'We had 4,000 available at the weekend. There will be another 2,000 available this week. It also means that police officers are able to be deployed in parts of the country where they are needed most.' Elsewhere, she said courts 'could possibly' begin sitting 'through the evening, the night, at weekends' in order to swiftly prosecute rioters. The additional courts protocol, which was created in the aftermath of the 2011 riots, could be invoked in areas where police and prosecuting chiefs feel it is needed, the minister told LBC. The courts are now 'willing to consider any of those requests', according to Ms Alexander. During her round of TV and radio interviews, Ms Alexander warned thugs taking part in the riots they could face prison sentences of up to 10 years. She told ITV's Good Morning Britain: 'Decisions about sentencing when these cases come to the courts will be for judges. 'But anyone watching our television screens and seeing the images that you and I have seen of this violent disorder, the racist attacks, the dangerous extremism, will realise that in all likelihood there are some very serious offences that have been committed. 'It will be for the Crown Prosecution Service to determine what charges are brought against individuals, evidence will need to be collated so that there are strong cases going before the courts and then it will be judges to determine those sentences. 'But whether it is rioting, violent disorder, incitement to racial hatred, criminal damage, these carry very significant maximum sentences.' Pressed on how long those sentences could be, she added: 'Ten years, seven years, five years for some of the offences that I've just spoken about.' The maximum jail term for rioting is ten years. Tory leadership contender James Cleverly criticised the Government's announcement of a 'standing army' of public order police to deal with the riots. Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, the shadow home secretary said: 'Labour still don't understand that they're not in opposition any more. 'In government you can't just say stuff, you have to do stuff.' Mr Cleverly went on to pose a series of questions about the plan, including: 'Using the word 'army' always sounds tough but is he suggesting a paramilitary police force? 'What new or additional powers will the unit have? Police forces across the UK have officers who are public order trained, but when not dealing with disorder they have other police duties. 'Will this standing army of officers have no other duties? If so, what will they do when there are no riots? Or is Starmer expecting permanent riots?' Mr Cleverly, who is seeking to replace Rishi Sunak at the helm of the Conservative Party, also asked how much extra budget is being allocated, how long it will take to recruit the officers and where the unit will be based. A tree erupts into flames in the community of Dales near Chico on July 27. The Park Fire has burned more than 400,000 acres as of Monday. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle The author doesnt mention that the legislation removes Endangered Species Act protections from many wildlife habitats and that the proposed logging to do all the fixing would further imperil many species. The writer fails to mention how the bill flouts the National Environmental Policy Act by providing exclusions for many proposed projects. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Nor does he note that the bill grants political appointees, who may not have any expertise, the power to make decisions regarding U.S. Forest Service and the Department of the Interior land, including tribal territory. The bill also limits the ability of the public to seek judicial review of Forest Service and Interior Department proposals for fuels management and other related projects, eliminating checks and balances of our governmental system. To address our wildfire crisis, we need commonsense, science-based and tribal culture-based policies that dont skirt important environmental laws and sacrifice democratic principles. We should all oppose the faux fix of Fix Our Forests. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jennifer Normoyle, Hillsborough Share Americas power Regarding Project 2025 put a key Jan. 6 figure in charge of military strategy. His plan is as dangerous as youd imagine (Open Forum, SFChronicle.com, Aug. 4): Brett Wagner advocates maintaining the current forward-looking defense strategy based on overwhelming and ever-evolving U.S. military superiority, combined with strong alliances to maintain world order, as opposed to the Project 2025s plan, which slashes (U.S.) military commitment and related funding to such draconian levels that we would cease to be a global superpower. While the power vacuum created by Project 2025 would invite chaos, the U.S. record as a superpower, with disastrous wars in Vietnam, Afghanistan and Iraq costing trillions of dollars and millions of lives, has contributed little to world order and much to disorder. The wise path for the U.S. to follow is a middle one that builds trust through alliances that, like the founding states of the U.S. giving power to the federal government, are allowed to assume greater power not only to maintain order but to solve the underlying problems such as global warming and inequitable distribution of resources that cause conflict. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The U.S. cannot simply abdicate its superpower role but it must learn to share it. Tom Miller, Oakland Disrupt home insurance Regarding Say your prayers. Californias new plan to ease the insurance crisis is going to need them (Editorials, SFChronicle.com, Aug. 3): The entire notion of the insurance business is to spread the risk. Obviously, the insurance companies get it but California and Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara dont. While State Farm, Farmers and other insurers leave California, enrollment in the states privately run insurer of last resort, Fair Access to Insurance Requirements Plan, explodes. Believe it or not, that is good news, but the key is to expand it further by chasing the big insurers out and placing all California properties into it Advertisement Article continues below this ad If all the homes in areas like San Francisco, Los Angeles or San Diego (where fire or other catastrophic risks are less) were paying premiums into the FAIR Plan, the risk is spread more equitably. I dont believe this to be a long-term solution, but the opportunity costs of not adopting this idea (like obstructing new construction or killing the real estate business) are too great. Dane Faber, Sausalito Trump empowers people Regarding Why weird is working wonders for the Democrats (Soleil Ho, SFChronicle.com, July 31): Soleil Ho writes, Democrats are finally coming to realize that stepping off the high ground is worth it if thats what it takes to interrupt the march of fascism. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines fascism as a political philosophy, movement, or regime that exalts nation and often race above the individual. About Opinion Guest opinions in Open Forum and Insight are produced by writers with expertise, personal experience or original insights on a subject of interest to our readers. Their views do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Chronicle editorial board, which is committed to providing a diversity of ideas to our readership. Read more about our transparency and ethics policies Donald Trump proposes cuts to government regulations, lower taxes and allowing for school choice through vouchers. All of these proposals will empower the individual at the expense of the state. How is that fascism? Elon Musk today goaded Sir Keir Starmer again by accusing the PM of presiding over 'one-sided' policing of race riots breaking out across the UK - even using the hashtag 'TwoTierKeir' in a tweet to 196million people. The billionaire has hit back repeatedly at the Labour leader in a row over his claim that Britain is on the brink of an 'inevitable' civil war because of migration. Musk also compared the UK to the Soviet Union because of arrests over what people have been saying on Facebook as riots break out across the UK. He even shared a Family Guy meme and joked that Britain might bring back the death penalty for social media posts that offend politicians. Posting an image of Peter Griffin in the electric chair he said: 'In 2030 for making a Facebook comment that the UK government didnt like'. He also retweeted a meme showing armed police confronting a woman over her social media messages, adding: 'Sounds like that is the UK today'. This morning a Labour minister called out Elon Musk's 'deplorable' claim that civil war in the UK is around the corner, as he was accused of stoking tensions in tinderbox Britain. Hitting back this afternoon the billionaire posted a video of a gang in balaclavas waving Palestine flags storming The Clumsy Swan in Birmingham, where windows were smashed and drinkers were attacked last night. Musk tweeted footage of the pub attack and tagged the Prime Minister with the caption: 'Why arent all communities protected in Britain, Keir Starmer?' He also pinned it to his profile so it is the first thing his 193million followers see when on his page. Minutes earlier the Tesla boss also shared a video of a Exeter man believed to be named Thomas Dunne being arrested recently after a complaint made about his comments on social media. Musk shared it to launch another attack on the UK and said: 'Arrested for making comments on Facebook! Is this Britain or the Soviet Union?' Downing Street rebuked Elon Musk, the owner of X, for using his platform to claim that 'civil war is inevitable' - so the billionaire has hit back again Elon joked that the UK Government could execute people for Facebook posts they don't like, sharing a Family Guy meme Elon retweeted a meme showing armed police confronting a woman over her social media messages, adding: 'Sounds like that is the UK today' Musk shared this video from Birmingham of a pub being attacked by a gang with Palestinian flags The billionaire also shared a video of a man being arrested over Facebook posts Sir Keir Starmer and Downing Street last night hit out at the billionaire for suggesting 'civil war is inevitable' following days of rioting fuelled by disinformation on social media after the deaths of three little girls in Southport last week. Asked about Mr Musk's comments today, Justice minister Heidi Alexander told BBC Breakfast 'everyone should be calling for calm' and that Musk in particular 'has a responsibility given the huge platform he has, and so, to be honest, I think his comments are pretty deplorable'. The Prime Minister's spokesman yesterday said there was 'no justification for comments like that', prompting Mr Musk to reply directly by responding to a video posted by the PM stressing attacks on mosques and Muslims would not be tolerated. The mogul, who is the richest man in the world with more than $200billion and has 193million followers on X, asked Sir Keir: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities?' Overnight he then responded to a cartoon featuring offensive caricatures of two men, one wearing a headband featuring the flag of Pakistan, holding a knife, alongside a police officer with the caption: 'We are here to protect you.' Underneath is a man saying: 'I don't want my children to get stabbed', while a police officer accuses him of being a 'Nazi'. The user who posted the cartoon wrote 'The UK police are compromised' - to which Musk responded: 'Does seem one-sided'. So-called 'two tier policing' is a claim often used by the far-right to imply that police treat certain groups of people in different ways. Ms Alexander attacked Mr Musk again in a separate interview this morning. She told Times Radio: 'I agree with what the spokesperson on behalf of the Prime Minister was saying yesterday. I do think these comments are unjustifiable. 'If you have got a platform, a large social media platform, then you have also got a responsibility. 'I think it is deeply irresponsible, I think everyone should be appealing for calm. 'Use of language such as a 'civil war' is in no way acceptable. We are seeing police officers being seriously injured, buildings set alight, and so I really do think that everyone who has a platform should be exercising their power responsibly.' Elon Musk hit out at the UK's police last night as he responded to an offensive cartoon He added: 'We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities.' In response, Mr Musk wrote: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities?' Musk had earlier replied to a tweet by right-wing commentator Ashley St Clair, who said far-right rioting was down to 'the effects of mass migration', by suggesting 'civil war is inevitable' The clash came as Cabinet ministers blamed social media for allowing hate and fake news to be spread, leading to violent riots by the far-Right that have seen migrant hotels and mosques attacked in the wake of the Southport stabbings a week ago. False claims spread rapidly on X and other social media platforms that the suspect was a Muslim asylum seeker who arrived in the UK by boat a year previously. In fact the 17-year-old suspect was born in Cardiff and has no known links to Islam. Last night hundreds of far-Right activists and anti-racist protesters came face-to-face in Plymouth, where beer bottles, flares and a crutch were flung through the air, leaving police officers injured. And in Birmingham a Sky News van was attacked by a knife-wielding man after members of the Muslim community gathered amid claims far-Right groups would target the Small Heath area. Police have also been warned of alleged plans by far-Right groups to hit dozens of immigration targets across Britain on Wednesday night. Violence erupted again in Belfast last night amid ongoing rioting around the UK The clash came as Cabinet ministers blamed social media for allowing hate and fake news to be spread, leading to violent rioting by the far-Right that have seen migrant hotels and mosques attacked in the wake of the Southport stabbings a week ago. Pictured: Far-right protesters in Plymouth on Monday night Police were out in force and detained far-right protesters in Plymouth on Monday night The violence has seen damage to homes, businesses, hotels and even a library Ministers have said X has helped stoke online hate and refused to delete racist comments while allowing controversial activists such as Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate back on the platform. Pictured: Protesters in Plymouth Home Secretary Yvette Cooper yesterday said social media has put 'rocket boosters' under such groups. Health Secretary Wes Streeting warned that the spread of disinformation online is 'an existential threat to democracy'. He told the Edinburgh Fringe festival: 'We've got to wake up, not just as Britain but as democracies collectively, to what is actually a threat to our democracy, to our national security, to trust in politics, which is already kind of rock bottom anyway.' And Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: 'Responsibility for harmful social media content principally rests with the individuals and groups who create it. 'But it is undeniable that social media has provided a platform for this hate.' BIRMINGHAM: Men gesture to the camera as they stand on a roundabout amid rumours of a far-right gathering PLYMOUTH: Police form a barrier separating protesters in the city as tensions simmer PLYMOUTH: A man yells at counter-protesters as riot police separate the groups to avoid conflict PLYMOUTH: An anti-immigration protester clashes with anti-racism protesters in Plymouth tonight PLYMOUTH: A man faces an anti-racism protester during tense stand-offs in Plymouth SOUTHPORT: In contrast to riots across the country, locals turned out in Southport to lay flowers and teddies and blow bubbles He held individual meetings with bosses from US-based X, Facebook, Google and TikTok yesterday to make clear their responsibility to 'stop the spread of hateful misinformation and incitement'. No 10 said action taken by the firms so far has not gone far enough. 'There is more that they can and should be doing,' Sir Keir's spokesman said. HUDDERSFIELD: Shops in Huddersfield closed early as claims of a planned protest in the town spread on social media PLYMOUTH: A man is handcuffed and led away by a police officer PLYMOUTH: Police detain a protester as earlier clashes began to turn ugly BIRMINGHAM: Pubgoers screamed as protesters faced off against a man outside - before he was kicked to the floor BIRMINGHAM: Some protesters donned masks to stand on the roundabout - as many have in the riots seen in recent days BIRMINGHAM: Young men, some in masks, gathered outside a McDonald's in Bordesley Green, Birmingham amid rumours of a far-right gathering After the first emergency Cobra meeting about the riots, Downing Street also put online agitators on notice that they will be brought to justice alongside the rioters themselves. 'Anyone who is guilty of criminal behaviour online, anyone who is whipping up violence online, will face the full force of law.' The landmark Online Safety Act passed by the previous government will mean tech giants face multi-million pound fines if they fail to protect users from illegal content such as messages provoking hatred, disorder or violence. But the duties on the firms will not come into force for several months, as regulator Ofcom is still consulting on its codes of practice and guidance. However, the watchdog said platforms can act now rather than waiting for the law to come into force. X has been accused of refusing to delete racist comments while allowing controversial activists such as Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate back on the platform. The false claim that a Muslim asylum seeker was the suspect in the Southport stabbings was first made on X by a British woman before going viral when it was spread by Russia-linked fake news website Channel3 Now. And, as the Mail revealed, English Defence League founder Mr Robinson was stoking the race riots with a series of video rants on X while he was on holiday in Cyprus. But Mr Musk himself has made at least ten comments about the riots mostly replying to other users and thereby massively increasing their reach. Mr Musk used his X social media site, formerly known as Twitter, on Sunday to reply to a post that blamed 'mass migration and open borders' for unrest in the UK After a prominent account posted a video of rioters setting off fireworks at police and a Right-wing commentator blamed mass migration, Mr Musk replied: 'Civil war is inevitable.' Asked about the remark, Sir Keir's spokesman said: 'There's no justification for comments like that. 'And what we've seen is organised violent thuggery that has no place on our streets or online.' Yesterday Sir Keir posted a video condemning the violence and warning that criminal justice will be 'ramped up'. He added: 'We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities.' In response, Mr Musk wrote, in a comment that received 70,000 likes and 12,000 reposts in three hours: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on communities?' The X owner also agreed that UK police 'seem one-sided' in response to a cartoon accusing officers of going soft on violent Islamists. And he added: 'If incompatible cultures are brought together without assimilation, conflict is inevitable.' Expert on online disinformation Dr Marc Owen Jones said: 'Musk is definitely fanning the flames he is clearly contributing to the problem.' X did not respond to requests to comment. Basic checks were not carried out in the recruitment of a 'Walter Mitty' chief constable who was sacked after lying about his career, an inquiry by the force has found. Northamptonshire Police made assumptions about Nick Adderley's vetting status and did not verify his education and qualifications, the investigation found. Shamed Adderley, 57, was sacked in June after a misconduct panel found he lied and exaggerated his naval rank, length of service and achievements when applying to become chief constable - including implying that he had served in the Falklands War, despite being 15 when the conflict broke out in 1982. The internal investigation review into vetting processes for Northamptonshire's most senior officers lays bare failings around the vetting processes and pre-employment checks ahead of Mr Adderley's appointment to the top job in August 2018. Chief Constable of Northamptonshire Police, Nick Adderley, who lied about his naval achievements, committed gross misconduct Northamptonshire Police made assumptions about Nick Adderley's vetting status and did not verify his education and qualifications, an investigation found It found that Developed Vetting (DV) forms passed on by his previous force, Staffordshire, contained inaccurate dates for his military service. The Northants force had also assumed Adderley therefore held a prerequisite local clearance called Management Vetting (MV) and failed to check this and did not carry out its own MV. The report stated that there was no record any MV documents had been sent and there had been no follow-up enquiries about this. When Adderley submitted his MV and DV vetting renewal in 2023 while Chief Constable, he gave different details on each and this was never picked up. Acting Chief Constable Ivan Balhatchet, who commissioned the report, described the Adderley affair as a 'very dark chapter in the history of Northamptonshire Police'. He added: 'This report is difficult reading because there undoubtedly were very significant failings in the processes leading up to the appointment of Nick Adderley in 2018 and the handling of his vetting renewal in 2023. Suspended chief constable Nick Adderley leaves Northampton Saints Stadium, Northampton, following the first day of his misconduct hearing Acting Chief Constable Ivan Balhatchet, who commissioned the report, described the Adderley affair as a 'very dark chapter in the history of Northamptonshire Police' 'We are taking robust action to ensure this situation will never arise again and that officers and staff as well as the communities we serve across Northamptonshire, have the utmost confidence in our processes going forward.' As well as initiating the investigation into Adderley's recruitment, Mr Balhatchet also ordered checks into the qualifications of his most senior officers. All were able to produce degree certificates except one, and an enquiry has been made with the relevant individual's stated university. Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Danielle Stone, said she fully supported the approach taken in the aftermath of the former Chief's dismissal. She said: 'It's disappointing that more thorough checks were not carried out when Nick Adderley was appointed. 'I'm pleased that the lessons have been learned, processes and systems will be strengthened, and standards raised to give the public confidence in the recruitment of senior police officers. 'I've already begun conversations with the Home Office to highlight the gap between national and local systems and to explore what can be done. 'I'm grateful to the Acting Chief Constable Ivan Balhatchet for this clear and thorough review, produced and published so quickly. Transparency and integrity must be at the heart of everything we do.' The force admitted it had been unable to check a lot of details around Adderley's application because we did not keep anyone's forms beyond 12 months. Its report made a number of recommendations, including a tightening up and review of pre-employment qualification checks, dip sampling of vetting files and a requirement for detailed and comprehensive responses to HM Forces checks. Northamptonshire Police also intends to approach the Home Office to ensure enhanced information sharing and cross-checks happen between the DV vetting carried out by the National Security Vetting Service and the MV vetting done at Force level. The Mail revealed Adderley was caught out when an ex-wife blew the whistle. Adderley's second wife Jenny Eastman said she felt compelled to report him after being left sickened by the 'disrespect' he had shown genuine veterans. When Adderley submitted his MV and DV vetting renewal in 2023 while Chief Constable, he gave different details on each and this was never picked up He also claimed he had attended the Britannia Royal Naval College for four years, despite his application being rejected Adderley's misconduct hearing in Northampton heard the chief constable wore a South Atlantic Medal that was found to be fake by a Ministry of Defence expert. He had claimed the medal was a gift from his older brother, who earned it. Adderley claimed when applying to become chief constable in 2018 that he had been in the Royal Navy for ten years when he had served for only two, and had apparently included his service with the Sea Cadets from the age of ten in that calculation. He also claimed he had attended the Britannia Royal Naval College for four years, despite his application being rejected. Adderley said he had seen active service, been a military negotiator in Haiti despite never visiting the country, and that he had been a 'commander or a lieutenant', when he only achieved the rank of able seaman. Adderley, who earned 176,000 a year, also repeatedly failed to correct inaccurate reporting of his military service in the media some of it disseminated by his own press office. He now faces possible criminal charges. The Crown Prosecution Service is considering a file of evidence which could lead to charges of misconduct in a public office and fraud by false representation. Britain has become consumed by racially-motivated violence since the weekend, with far-right groups sparking chaos up and down the country. Riots, considered the worst spate of extremist violence in Britain for years, flared up in Rotherham, where thugs set a hotel housing asylum seekers alight, Hull, Birmingham, Darlington, Plymouth, Bristol, Liverpool and Belfast. In response to the shocking scenes, which have been broadcast around the world, several countries have issued official warnings, with Sweden becoming the latest nation caution their citizens on the state of Britain. As of Tuesday afternoon, six nations have warned their citizens to avoid certain areas, and to stay safe. MailOnline has listed each nation, and the exact advice they have shared. Anti-migration protesters attempt to enter the Holiday Inn Express Hotel which is housing asylum seekers on August 4, 2024 in Rotherham A car burns on Parliament Road after it was set alight by far-right activists holding a demonstration in Middlesbrough on August 04, 2024 Police officers with dogs intervene after far-right protesters crossed to the side of anti-racism activists and clashed with the police at Guildhall Square in Plymouth Sweden Sweden's Embassy in London has 'strongly recommended' that Swedes avoid large crowds in the UK. It said on the Sweden Abroad website: 'Since the beginning of August, riots have taken place in several British cities, motivated by xenophobia. It is strongly recommended to avoid large crowds.' India The High Commission of India in London told its citizens to stay 'vigilant' in light of the 'recent disturbances.' It said in a statement on Tuesday morning: 'Indian travellers would be aware of recent disturbances in some parts of the United Kingdom. 'The High Commission of India in London is closely monitoring the situation. Visitors from India are advised to stay vigilant and exercise due caution while travelling in the UK. 'It is advisable to follow local news and advisories issued by local security agencies, and to avoid areas where protests are underway.' Australia Australia's government issued a warning to its Smart Traveller service that citizens should 'exercise a high degree of caution in the UK due to the threat of terrorism.' It added that citizens should 'avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the potential for disruption and violence, monitor the media for information and updates, and follow the instructions of local authorities.' Nigeria Nigeria's High Commission to the UK said on Monday evening that the 'riots, which have assumed a violent and disorderly outlook as evidenced by reported attacks on Law enforcement agents and damages to properties and infrastructure, may spread across the country.' 'To this end, the Nigerian Community is advised to be extra vigilant, stay away from protests areas and avoid large gatherings. 'The High Commission will strive to keep the Nigerian Community in the UK informed of any development as the situation unfolds.' Police hold back anti-migration protesters during confrontation on the seafront promenade, on August 04, 2024 in Weymouth Malaysia Malaysia's High Commission took a more stringent measure, requiring Malaysians to register with the diplomatic mission. It previously warned 'Malaysians residing in or travelling to the United Kingdom... to stay away from protest areas, remain vigilant and follow the latest updates and guidance provided by local authorities.' Indonesia Indonesia's embassy in London warned its citizens in the UK to avoid large crowds and increase their vigilance. UAE The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs told its citizens 'to exercise the highest level of caution, and take the necessary precautions, in light of the unstable security situation in various cities across the UK. 'Furthermore, the Ministry warns UAE nationals against visiting areas witnessing riots and protests, and to avoid crowded areas. 'UAE citizens must adhere to the warnings issued by the UAE Embassy in London, and comply with all safety instructions. 'The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also advises UAE citizens on the importance of remaining in contact with the Embassy in London in case of emergency, or suspicion of any potential danger. A rising political star and three-time mayor has been found dead at home, sending shockwaves through Australian politics. Sarah Carter, 45, was found by emergency services at her Maribyrnong home in Melbourne's west at about 3.45pm on Tuesday and couldn't be revived. Victoria Police confirmed it was preparing a report for the coroner but did not share details on her cause of death, which isn't being treated as suspicious. Cr Carter was a member of the Labor Party and was elected as mayor of Maribyrnong three times - in 2011, 2020 and 2022. The councillor was also a 'passionate advocate' of the arts and pushed for programs including the Creative West project, formerly known as NeXT, and Festival City. She has received multiple awards since she was first elected to the council in 2008 and was in the middle of serving her fourth consecutive term. Many Labor insiders tipped Cr Carter as a future MP as she was well-liked within Melbourne and Canberra political circles. She had only returned from her trip to 'remote communities on Santo and Malekula Islands in Vanuatu' earlier this week. Rising political star and three-time mayor Sarah Carter (pictured) was found dead inside her Melbourne home on Tuesday Cr Carter had only returned from her holiday (pictured) to 'remote communities on Santo and Malekula Islands in Vanuatu' with charity Save the Children earlier this week Minister for the NDIS and federal Maribyrnong MP Bill Shorten described Cr Carter (pictured together) as a 'remarkable, irreplaceable, dedicated, passionate advocate' The tour was organised by Save the Children as part of its Australian Regional Leadership Initiative. During the trip, Cr Carter had the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister of Vanuatu, learn about the Pacific culture and the impact of Australia's aid programs. 'Vanuatu is recognised as one of the most vulnerable countries in the world to the impacts of climate change and disasters and we got to witness firsthand the impact of resilience and adaptation initiatives benefiting communities through Australia's bilateral and multilateral development programs,' Cr Carter said. Former deputy prime minister and Nationals leader Michael McCormack had joined Cr Carter on the trip and remembered her as a 'beautiful human' and 'force of nature'. 'She made such a difference and the world is a lesser place for her passing,' he told The Age on Tuesday night. 'She was smart, funny, intelligent. I am gutted.' Labor MP Tim Watts also paid a glowing tribute, saying Cr Carter 'lived a life of values and of service'. 'Her energy was limitless and was exhausting for those of us trying to keep up,' he said. 'I had the privilege of seeing first hand the impact that Sarah had as a councillor and mayor in Melbourne's west, as an international aid and development advocate and as a friend. She had an impact on so many people's lives. 'She gave so much of herself and wanted to give so much more. She's been taken from us far too soon. It's a terrible loss to our community and our country.' Cr Carter was in the running to be a potential Labor candidate for the federal seat of Hawke in 2021 before the contest was marred by in-party fighting over gender representation. Cr Carter shared her thoughts on the matter during a rally on the steps of Victorian Parliament and demanded a woman be chosen to fill the seat. She also had many supporters who followed her IVF journey, which she shared online following infertility struggles. Cr Carter (pictured) returned from Save the Children's Australian Regional Leadership Initiative earlier this week Labor MP Tim Watts (right) said that Cr Carter (left) 'lived a life of values and of service' Former deputy prime minister Michael McCormack had joined Cr Carter (pictured) on the trip to Vanuatu and remembered her as a 'beautiful human' and 'force of nature' Just five days ago, Cr Carter posted this photo with Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon on their trip Maribyrnong Council also shared a heartfelt tribute to Cr Carter on Tuesday night. 'Council is tonight shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of former Mayor and councillor Sarah Carter,' the statement read. 'Councillor Carter was a trusted and valued colleague and her passing is an enormous loss to our community who she has worked tirelessly to support over her 16 years on Council. 'Maribyrnong's first three-time female mayor, councillor Carter was only the second mayor in our municipality's history to achieve Emeritus status - the highest recognition for distinguished service in local government leadership. 'We extend our deepest condolences to Cr Carter's partner, family, friends, and all who knew and worked alongside her. She will be greatly missed.' NDIS minister and federal Maribyrnong MP Bill Shorten hailed Cr Carter as a 'remarkable, irreplaceable, dedicated, passionate advocate'. 'Children's champion, community leader, Labor through and through. The best of us,' he said. 'My thoughts are with her family and loved ones in this difficult time.' Cr Carter (right) recently celebrated an anniversary with her partner, Nikhil Roy (left), in late May Many Labor insiders reportedly believed Cr Carter (pictured) would become an MP as she was well-liked within Melbourne and Canberra political circles Cr Carter recently celebrated an anniversary with her partner, Nikhil Roy, in late May. She shared a series of photos of her and Mr Roy enjoying dinner at a fine dining Middle Eastern venue, Maha Restaurant, for their celebration. 'Happy anniversary to us! Love you, thank you for being you; you are so very special, one of a kind,' she wrote. However, it was the her previous relationship that made headlines in the past. Cr Carter announced her engagement to Aaron Lipson in March 2020 but shared a cryptic Facebook post just days later. 'The wedding is off,' she said. 'Thank you to the woman for telling me, best to know now. 'I'm obviously terribly embarrassed.' The couple were then re-engaged 18 months later in September 2021 and remained together in late 2022 but seemingly never went ahead with the wedding. Four white sheets of paper revealed a murder-suicide that had just taken place at a Massachusetts mansion. Rakesh 'Rick' Kamal, 57, shot dead his wife Teena, 54, and their daughter Arianna, 18, as they slept in their beds at the family's $4million Dover mansion in December. He then turned the gun on himself in a bathtub. Kamal was broke when he killed his family on the same day they were going to be kicked out from their foreclosed 21-room mansion, according to documents seen by the Boston Globe. When officers arrived at the home after a 911 call, they found a typed message on a piece of paper that seemed to be intended for a person scheduled to retrieve the keys of the home. The note read: 'Please Note, Before entering call the Police to first check three bedrooms on the second floor. Each room will be marked by a white sheet of paper.' Rakesh 'Rick' Kamal, 57, shot dead his wife Teena, 54, and their daughter Arianna, 18, as they slept in their beds at the family's $4million Dover mansion in December. He then turned the gun on himself in a bathtub Inside the rooms where the bodies of Kamal, Teena and their daughter. The murders rocked the community, where Rick was considered to be a wealthy entrepreneur and doting father running a successful start-up business. However following his death, it was revealed Rick had filed for bankruptcy and was served with a foreclosure notice just three months before the killings. Rick's younger brother Manoj Kamal told police he had leant Rick about $150,000, in roughly $5,000 increments in the nine months before the killings. Manoj also claims Rick drained their mother's bank account. Police documents have also revealed that while Teena was not fully aware of the extent of her husband's financial issues, she also felt under significant pressure. Manoj Kamal said Teena had recently made a trouble statement about wanting 'to drive their family car off a cliff due to the recent stress they were under.' The Kamal family were found dead on Thursday night at their 27-room property on Wilson's Way in Dover. The Kamals' home was assessed at $6.7 million, according to town records Rick purchased his $6.7 million home predominantly using borrowed money and had received a foreclosure notice after failing to keep up repayments Rick's family have confirmed that the veneer of perfection ran so deep even his wife and daughter had no idea they were drowning in debt. The parents and their only daughter were found dead by Rick's brother Manoj on December 28 - three weeks after a foreclosure notice was served on their sprawling 20,000-square-foot home, which they bought for $4 million in 2019. Now valued at $6.7 million, it has since emerged the mansion was bought with $3.8 million borrowed from the property's builder rather than a bank, with the money needing to be repaid within two years. But by 2021, interest and fines had spiraled out of control and despite an effort to restructure the mortgage, foreclosure notices were served. Even as the foreclosure was being processed, Teena was under the impression they were still moving forward with the purchase of a $16.5 million chateau along Tennessee's Chickamauga Lake. Arianna Kamal, 18, (pictured) was discovered dead with her parents in their Dover, Massachusetts, home. She recently graduated from Milton Academy and began attending Middlebury College to study neuroscience Rick presented as a doting dad, even appearing on daytime TV to offer parenting tips to promote his now defunct education tech company Listing agent James Perry said that Rick had provided bank statements proving his 'ability to purchase'. The family toured the property, with Teena even starting to purchase furniture - but the contract was never signed. The illusion of wealth was propped up by Rick at every turn. Arianna attended an elite private school Milton Academy and was given expensive music tuition while attending Middlebury College. The family drove a luxury car and Rick would continuously show up to work in bespoke tailoring, according to former colleagues who revealed that Rick had been pushed out his role at Harvard Business School. The father-of-one took on the role of chief technology officer in 2015 and was gone by 2019. An archived version of the school's website showed that his position was open less than four months after he bought the Dover property. His wife reportedly believed he was still employed there as late as 2023. A suspected assassination plot against Vladimir Putin by Ukraine was halted after Russia's defence minister called his opposite number at the Pentagon, according to Moscow. Russian intelligence allegedly had discovered a Kyiv covert operation to strike at the Navy Day parade in St Petersburg on July 28. Such an attack would have plunged Russia and the US into an 'uncontrollable conflict', implying a nuclear World War Three, according to Russian state TV Rossiya 1, which interviewed Putin's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov, who described the alleged plot as 'madness'. The Navy Day parade was attended by dictator Putin, 71, and his defence minister Andrei Belousov, 65. The suspicion in Moscow based on the 'intelligence' Russia had obtained was that Ukraine was seeking to assassinate both men. Russia's President Vladimir Putin, Defence Minister Andrei Belousov at 28 July 2024 annual Navy Day parade in St Petersburg, Russia A suspected assassination plot against Vladimir Putin by Ukraine was halted after Russia 's defence minister called his opposite number at the Pentagon , according to Moscow. Pictured: Russia's President Vladimir Putin, Defence Minister Andrei Belousov at 28 July 2024 annual Navy Day parade in St Petersburg, Russia Putin and Belousov attend Navy Day parade on July 28. Moscow claims that intelligence' obtained indicated that Ukraine was seeking to assassinate both men Sixteen days before the parade, Belousov called US defence secretary Lloyd Austin for a 'genuinely tough conversation', said TV propagandist Olga Skabeeva. 'Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov called the Pentagon himself for the first time, and he said something that made US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin squirm. 'If Kyiv's operation had happened, it would have guaranteed to plunge Russia and the USA into a phase of uncontrollable conflict.' Russia evidently believed that the US was aware of the attack plot and feared it was involved in it - which Pentagon officials have denied. But according to Ryabkov calls were made to Ukraine, stopping a covert operation on the Navy Day parade, which Putin and Belousov later attended without incident. Image shows members of Russian Navy during Navy Day parade on July 28 Sixteen days before the parade, Belousov says he called US defence secretary Lloyd Austin for a 'genuinely tough conversation' Russia evidently believed that the US was aware of the attack plot and feared it was involved in it - which Pentagon officials have denied Such an attack would have plunged Russia and the US into an 'uncontrollable conflict', implying a nuclear World War Three, according to Russian state TV Rossiya 1 Putin and Belousov pose on a boat at 28 July 2024 annual Navy Day parade 'The signal sent by the Russian side.not just to Washington, but to other capitals under Washington's control was received,' said Ryabkov. 'We avoided a new escalation cycle. 'But that specific episode is very troubling 'It was planned [by Ukraine].to cause maximum damage and achieve the maximum media effect they needed. 'We got past that specific episode, thank God, which means that the signal from our military leadership and the defence minister to his American counterpart apparently had an effect. Ryabkov did not specify what precisely was contained in the Russian intelligence, or the nature of the suspected strike plot. 'I don't want to go into details, but there was indeed a certain linkage with such events,' he said, referring to Navy Day. 'The details of the audacious action are currently a state secret,' said Skabeeva, also known as Putin's 'Iron Doll'. 'At the parade in St. Petersburg after the foiled provocation, Vladimir Putin made a statement that the whole world is discussing.' She was referring to Putin's threat to implement 'mirror measures' if the US went ahead with plans to deploy long-range missiles in Germany from 2026, namely weapons that could hit the West in ten minutes. At the time of the 12 July call, Moscow said Belousov and Austin had discussed 'the issue of preventing security threats and reducing the risk of possible escalation was discussed.' Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs The statement at the time did not outline a suspected Ukrainian covert mission. A theory from Russian Telegram channel Win/Win is that an attack could have involved launching kamikaze sea drones from a neutral ship in the Baltic. Russian military expert Dmitry Kornev said: 'Another possibility is a combined attack from both sea and air, which would be the most dangerous. 'Nothing happened publicly. 'No changes to the parade programme or regulations were noted by observers. 'The parade went entirely according to plan. 'If additional security measures were taken, they went unnoticed. 'We might thank Austin and Belousov for this, or perhaps someone is just playing this card now, which seems unlikely. 'Most likely, something was indeed planned and did not happen. 'An assassination attempt, even if unsuccessful, would have provoked a very sharp response, burning all bridges to potential negotiations and normalising the conflict, putting an end to any aspirations for peace in this situation.' Respected Russian editor Alexei Venediktov said the Russians were concerned that a Ukrainian plot involved an assassination bid against Putin and his defence minister. A new workplace trend is sweeping social media which promises to teach employees how to take a vacation without the need for any PTO. Quiet vacationing is the latest craze in corporate culture, particularly beloved among Millennials and Gen Z. The trend follows on from the likes of 'quiet quitting' and 'bare minimum Mondays' as disgruntled workers find ever more creative ways to seize back control of their work life balance. It involves employees convincing their bosses they are hard at work despite the fact they are relaxing poolside, hitting the beach or even just indulging in their hobbies. Tactics include blocking out diaries with fake meetings or sending a few strategically timed emails. Quiet vacationing is the latest craze in corporate culture, particularly beloved among Millennials and Gen Z 'If I can get my work done quicker than the average person, why can't I indulge in my free time?' One worker, who chose to remain anonymous, told the Boston Globe. According to The Harris Poll, 37 percent of millennial workers admitted to taking time off without notifying their boss. Among them is one 39-year-old lawyer who said she blacked out hours on her calendar to take a trip to see family in California after her new management axed the number of vacation days available. 'We have such a work-driven culture that employers think the only thing you should care about is work,' she said. 'That doesn't align with people's actual value systems. 'Employees are often the best judge of what's required of them to do their job effectively.' Proponents say the scheme is a work around for offices which have stingy PTO policies or who otherwise undervalue their workers. 'Employees will stop 'quiet vacationing', when you 'loud' start paying them a living wage,' Recruiter Emily Durham said in a TikTok examining the trend. The trend involves employees convincing their bosses they are hard at work despite the fact they are relaxing poolside, hitting the beach or even just indulging in their hobbies. A similar concept was explored in a Simpsons' episode Tactics include blocking out diaries with fake meetings or sending a few strategically timed emails The nature of 'quiet vacationing' means that it is only accessible to remote workers who are not overseen by micromanagers. But HR professionals warn that the trend could come with serious consequences for those who get found out. 'Do I think it's ethical? I do not,' management consultant Gina Abudi told the Globe. 'But someone else might say they have no problem with it. She explained one of her clients diligently tracks all activity on company computers and terminates those who are not working during set hours. However, another client is more flexible and only seeks to ensure the work is completed. 'The younger generation works differently,' she acknowledged. 'I think it is preferable to attract and keep good talent that organizations find a middle ground.' Others have pointed out that many quiet vacationers continue to get their work done while taking time off - whether that is by working fully remotely or sneaking in meetings and calls from an airport lounge. Recruiter Emily Durham said quiet vacationing can be avoided if employers properly compensate and value workers Still, the phenomenon has been described as a 'CEO's worst nightmare' by recruiter Deepali Vyas, who cited statistics which showed 67 percent of executives do not support quiet vacationing. 'This is going to get so messy,' Vyas said in a TikTok. 'I don't know how I feel about it.' While some quiet vacationers admitted feeling guilt for overburdening their coworkers with the practice, there are no signs they are giving it up any time soon. 'I feel bad when I know my coworkers are really grinding,' one 29-year-old Boston hospital administrator said. 'But I continue to get positive feedback, and I'm not trying to move up the ladder.' A five-year-old boy has suffered severe burns after an enormous boat explosion on an Oklahoma lake - leaving him fighting for his life. The horrifying incident unfolded at Bridgeview Marina, just seven miles east of Madill, Oklahoma, at around 2:45 pm on Sunday. The fire erupted after what should have been a routine refueling stop turned into an explosion. According to the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety, the spark ignited gasoline fumes when they attempted to restart the vessel - triggering a massive explosion that engulfed the boat in fire. A five-year-old boy has suffered severe burns after an enormous boat explosion on an Oklahoma lake leaving him fighting for his life The horrifying incident unfolded at Bridgeview Marina, just seven miles east of Madill, Oklahoma, at around 2:45 pm on Sunday Chilling images shared by the Madill Fire Department show the devastating aftermath, with firefighters battling to control the inferno. The boat, carrying three people, had drifted away from the dock during refueling. Three people were on board a 51-year-old woman, a 25-year-old woman and the 5-year-old boy. The two adults escaped without injury, while the young boy suffered severe burns to his arms and legs, with minor burns to his face. The child was airlifted nearly 100 miles to the renowned Burn Center at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas one of the nation's largest burn units. Chilling images shared by the Madill Fire Department show the devastating aftermath, with firefighters battling to control the inferno Three people were on board a 51-year-old woman, a 25-year-old woman and the 5-year-old boy As of Monday, the boy is reported to be in stable condition, but faces a long road to recovery. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol has launched an investigation into the explosion, with initial reports suggesting equipment failure as the likely cause. Madill Fire Department expressed gratitude for the joint rescue effort. Madill Fire Department and Tri-City Fire Department worked diligently to extinguish the fire. We drafted water from the lake and were able to extinguish the fire in a timely manner, the department announced on Facebook. Wed like to say Thank You to MCEMS, MCSO, Tow-Boat-US, and Tri-City Fire Department for the hard work and effort it took to care for the individuals and extinguish the fire. A bodybuilder suffered a heart attack and died after participating in a competition in Brazil. Antonio Souza, 26, told his wife, Yone Silva, that he felt a 'strong pain in his chest' prior to competing Saturday at the Navega Open in Santa Catarina. Souza, who had been participating in bodybuilding events for about five years, took home a trophy for his top three finish in his category before he went into cardiac arrest. Silva told Brazilian news outlet G1 that Souza took diuretics, a drug that assists the body in getting rid of extra fluid and water - something that may have made him dehydrated. Brazilian bodybuilder Antonio Souza went into cardiac arrest and died after competing at the Navega Open in the southern Brazil state of Santa Catarina on Saturday. Prior to the competition, the 26-year-old complained to his wife of sharp pains in the chest Brazilian bodybuilder Antonio Souza with his mother during his birthday party last October 'He was very dehydrated. Very dry, unfortunately,' Silva said. 'This is an addictive and at the same time competitive sport. Antonio was very focused on this sport,' she added. Souza was optimistic about his chances of ahead of the competition and posting a video on his Instagram account. 'Let's go to the weigh-in. God willing, everything will be fine,' he said with a smile. 'It's a straight, "we are," right?!' You can already tell by the look on your face.' The Navega Open released a statement lamenting Souza's sudden passing. Before taking the stage at the Novega Open bodybuilding competition Saturday, Antonio Souza took diuretics, a drug that assists the body in getting rid of extra fluid and water, his wife revealed Antonio Souza started training at the age of 15 and had been participating in bodybuilding contests five years ago 'Our condolences to (the) family and friends for this inestimable loss,' the event organizer said. Souza started training at the age of 15 and saw the sport as a way to provide a better life for his mother, his sister, Mary Braz, told the outlet. 'His dream was to be recognized for doing what he loved and to be able to give our mother a better life,' she said. 'He was always very focused, he never waited for anyone for anything,' Braz added. 'He always knew his goal and he literally gave his life for this sport, he competed until his last breath.' Sir Keir Starmer today vowed to 'take all necessary action' to end Britain's riots crisis as Cabinet ministers stepped up their efforts to combat the week-long chaos. The Prime Minister met with his senior team in Downing Street as they discussed moves to deploy a 'standing army' of 6,000 specialist police to trouble hotspots. The Government is also making an extra 500 prison places available as they look to swiftly bring far-right thugs to justice over the widespread outbreak of violence. Sir Keir told a Cabinet meeting that the disorder in the wake of the Southport stabbing attack was 'not protest' and needed to be treated as 'criminal activity'. 'We need to be calling it out for what it is,' the PM told his Government's most senior figures, as he condemned the shocking scenes. Sir Keir Starmer today vowed to 'take all necessary action' to end Britain's riots crisis as Cabinet ministers stepped up their efforts to combat the week-long chaos. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, pictured arriving for today's Cabinet meeting, condemned the scenes of thuggery at a library, mosques, supermarkets and hotels housing asylum seekers Attorney General Richard Hermer (left) updated on progress in charging offenders, while Technology Secretary Peter Kyle spoke about his meetings with social media bosses Rioters attack police at a Holiday Inn Express hotel accommodating asylum seekers in Rotherham Sir Keir said: 'When I went to Southport I spoke to police who described what it was like to attend the mass stabbing of little girls and then to be back on duty the next day in riot gear, having bricks thrown at them. 'This is something no one would have ever wanted to see and we need to be calling it out for what it is.It is not protest. It is violent disorder and needs to be treated as such, as criminal activity. '99.9 per cent of people across the country want their streets to be safe and to feel safe in their communities and we will take all necessary action to bring the disorder to an end.' A Downing Street readout of today's Cabinet reading also revealed how Sir Keir told his top ministers that those involved in the riots 'will feel the full force of the law'. He also promised they would be subject to 'swift justice' and said special duty public order officers are ready to be deployed across the country to tackle any emerging trouble. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned the scenes of crime and thuggery at Liverpool Children's Library, mosques, supermarkets and hotels housing asylum seekers. She also spoke about the progress of a new National Violent Disorder Programme to bring together the best policing capabilities from across the country to share intelligence on the activity of violent groups. Attorney General Richard Hermer provided an update on the progress by the Crown Prosecution Service in charging offenders and said he looked towards potential court hearings at the end of the week. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle told fellow Cabinet ministers about his recent meetings with social media bosses and said he had made clear their responsibility to stop the spread of hateful disinformation and incitement. Police officers with dogs intervene during clashes at Guildhall Square in Plymouth yesterday Justice minister Heidi Alexander said 567 additional prison spaces would soon come into use Earlier, justice minister Heidi Alexander said 567 additional prison spaces would soon come into use. 'We will make sure that anyone who is given a custodial sentence as a result of the riots and disorder, there will be a prison place waiting for them,' she told BBC Radio 4's Today programme. Extra cells at HMP Stocken, Rutland, will be in use from 'next week', Ms Alexander said, with plans also in place to use space at Cookham Wood Young Offender Institution in Kent for adult prisoners. She also revealed more detail about the planned 'standing army' of police officers Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced yesterday afternoon. Ms Alexander told Times Radio: 'These are police officers who have had specialist training in dealing with public order offences. 'We had 4,000 available at the weekend. There will be another 2,000 available this week. It also means that police officers are able to be deployed in parts of the country where they are needed most.' Elsewhere, she said courts 'could possibly' begin sitting 'through the evening, the night, at weekends' in order to swiftly prosecute rioters. The additional courts protocol, which was created in the aftermath of the 2011 riots, could be invoked in areas where police and prosecuting chiefs feel it is needed, the minister told LBC. The courts are now 'willing to consider any of those requests', according to Ms Alexander. During her round of TV and radio interviews, Ms Alexander warned thugs taking part in the riots they could face prison sentences of up to 10 years. She told ITV's Good Morning Britain: 'Decisions about sentencing when these cases come to the courts will be for judges. 'But anyone watching our television screens and seeing the images that you and I have seen of this violent disorder, the racist attacks, the dangerous extremism, will realise that in all likelihood there are some very serious offences that have been committed. 'It will be for the Crown Prosecution Service to determine what charges are brought against individuals, evidence will need to be collated so that there are strong cases going before the courts and then it will be judges to determine those sentences. 'But whether it is rioting, violent disorder, incitement to racial hatred, criminal damage, these carry very significant maximum sentences.' Pressed on how long those sentences could be, she added: 'Ten years, seven years, five years for some of the offences that I've just spoken about.' The maximum jail term for rioting is ten years. People cheer during a campaign rally for Vice President Kamala Harris on July 29 in Ambler, Pa. White women are sometimes blamed for the 2016 election of Donald Trump because a slim plurality voted for him over Hillary Clinton. Hannah Beier/Getty Images As a white woman, I had to learn how to pronounce her name KA-ma-la. I joined several Childless Cat Ladies for Harris Facebook groups even though Im allergic to cats. I wash dishes listening to Keb Mo and Rosanne Cash sing Put a Woman in Charge. Now that the November election is no longer a La Brea Tar Pits struggle between aging stegosaurs, I have political hope. But when I talked to a Southern California friend whose parents are immigrants from India, she was decidedly cool. Harris, she said, leans far more into her Blackness and takes her South Asian heritage for granted. She will vote for her grudgingly. Geez. Harris cant win on this. Advertisement Article continues below this ad As one of the nations roughly 34 million multiracial people (the countrys fastest-growing demographic group), she doesnt fit into a tidy box. The daughter of immigrants (a Black Jamaican father and an Indian mother), she is a screen for endless projections in a divided, multiracial and unequal society. To my friend, shes not Indian enough. To Donald Trump, as he claimed at a recent conference for Black journalists, She was Indian all the way even though she was discriminated against as a Black child, was bused to desegregate Berkeley schools and attended Howard University, informally known as the Black Harvard and only now she wants to be known as Black. In headline after headline, Trumps charges were summarized as Harris portraying herself as Black for political gain. In 2009, when she was running for California attorney general, I saw Harris promote her first book, Smart on Crime, at the Book Passage bookstore in Corte Madera. She struck me, in our brief interchange, as approachable, smart and imaginative. Then she went national and was caught in the crosshairs of media misogyny. According to a 2020 report from Times Up Now on media coverage of Bidens announcement of Harris as his running mate, the racist and sexist angry Black woman trope was the most common stereotype in mainstream U.S. top-tier media coverage. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But the unpleasant woman caricature bears little resemblance to the woman I met in the bookstore or the unmediated woman currently giving electrifying speeches in packed arenas. Shes the first Democratic politician in years who is as charismatic a speaker and as comfortable in her own skin as Trump, and she does it dancing backward in pantsuits and stilettos. Republicans are flummoxed, and the racist attacks so far havent stuck. Its up to me and other white women to make sure they never do and to call out racism and misogyny when we hear it. And I do hear it, from a white liberal male neighbor in Marin County who mutters vaguely about Harris being unelectable. As the polls inch in her favor day by day, its time to put that argument to bed. Supporting Harris is not an act of penance by white women. White women are sometimes blamed for the 2016 election of Trump because a slim plurality (47% to 45%, according to a 2018 study by Pew Research Center, far fewer than early misleading exit polls suggested) voted for him over Clinton. Women, like men, dont vote solely on gender and shouldnt be expected to. (This election, thanks to abortion rights, may be a partial exception.) Lets not forget that almost two-thirds of college-educated white women voters went for Clinton, while only 35% voted for Trump. His female support came largely from white women who, like their male counterparts, had not completed college and tended to skew older, more religiously conservative, less affluent and more likely to oppose abortion. I cant reach these women. I can talk to men I love my husband, my stepsons and my neighbors. And I can try to reach some of the 40% of eligible voters who were too uninspired in 2016 to vote at all. Nearly half were non-white. They were younger, less affluent, less educated and more likely to lean Democratic than those who went to the polls. Here, Harris complex identity might work in her favor and narrow the enthusiasm gap. Advertisement Article continues below this ad About Opinion Guest opinions in Open Forum and Insight are produced by writers with expertise, personal experience or original insights on a subject of interest to our readers. Their views do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Chronicle editorial board, which is committed to providing a diversity of ideas to our readership. Read more about our transparency and ethics policies Will Harris be a perfect candidate? Will she be a perfect president? Of course not. But lets get her there and see. Elon Musk has been using his Twitter platform of 196 million followers to insist that Britain and Europe are on the brink of 'civil war' over immigration since 2023, MailOnline can reveal today. The billionaire CEO of Tesla has been accused by Sir Keir Starmer's government by stoking community tensions following the murder of three children at a summer camp in Southport. Downing Street rebuked the owner of X, formerly Twitter, for claiming that civil war is inevitable in a tweet related to 'migration and open borders' in their war of words over the race riots raging in Britain. But analysis of Musk's posts reveal that he has warning of civil war in Europe since last year. He also talked about in it in April before turning to it again after rioting and looting broke out in the UK over the last week. For months the X owner has repeatedly used his platform to share videos of disorder in Britain, Germany and other European countries and warn his 196million followers of a 'brewing' battle, especially over mass immigration and open borders. Warnings of civil war in the UK and Europe over migration have come from Elon Musk since at least last Autumn, perhaps earlier His earliest warning appears to have been on October 10 last year, in response to a tweet relating to a 'lack of sensible immigration policy' on the continent. Musk replied: 'If current trends continue, civil war in Europe is inevitable'. On October 20 he then shared a video of rioting in Germany, apparently in relation to conflict in the Middle East between Israel and Palestine. 'Europe is trending towards civil war', he wrote. Later that day he shared a video of daylight fighting between rioters and police in Berlin, declaring: 'Europe is headed for civil war'. Then on November 13 he shared a video of fighting in London after Armistice Day was severely disrupted by a series of protests and counter-protests across the capital. 'Europe appears to be heading for civil war', he said. He used the same 'civil war' phrase repeatedly in the coming months. His critics have accused of stoking tensions in communities concerned about the levels of migration. But his supporters have said that he is raising important issues in the UK and Europe - pointing out that he has also been tweeting about the ongoing disorder in Bangladesh and Venezuela. Civil war has been a common phrase used by Musk Musk today goaded Sir Keir Starmer again by accusing the PM of presiding over 'one-sided' policing of protests breaking out across the UK - even using the hashtag 'TwoTierKeir' in a tweet to 196million people. The billionaire has hit back repeatedly at the Labour leader in a row over his claim that Britain is on the brink of an 'inevitable' civil war because of migration. Musk also compared the UK to the Soviet Union because of arrests over what people have been saying on Facebook as riots break out across the UK. He even shared a Family Guy meme and joked that Britain might bring back the death penalty for social media posts that offend politicians. Posting an image of Peter Griffin in the electric chair he said: 'In 2030 for making a Facebook comment that the UK government didnt like'. He also retweeted a meme showing armed police confronting a woman over her social media messages, adding: 'Sounds like that is the UK today'. This morning a Labour minister called out Elon Musk's 'deplorable' claim that civil war in the UK is around the corner, as he was accused of stoking tensions in tinderbox Britain. Hitting back this afternoon the billionaire posted a video of a gang in balaclavas waving Palestine flags storming The Clumsy Swan in Birmingham, where windows were smashed and drinkers were attacked last night. Musk tweeted footage of the pub attack and tagged the Prime Minister with the caption: 'Why arent all communities protected in Britain, Keir Starmer?' He also pinned it to his profile so it is the first thing his 193million followers see when on his page. Minutes earlier the Tesla boss also shared a video of a Exeter man believed to be named Thomas Dunne being arrested recently after a complaint made about his comments on social media. Musk shared it to launch another attack on the UK and said: 'Arrested for making comments on Facebook! Is this Britain or the Soviet Union?' Downing Street rebuked Elon Musk, the owner of X, for using his platform to claim that 'civil war is inevitable' - so the billionaire has hit back again Elon joked that the UK Government could execute people for Facebook posts they don't like, sharing a Family Guy meme Musk shared this video from Birmingham of a pub being attacked by a gang with Palestinian flags The billionaire also shared a video of a man being arrested over Facebook posts Sir Keir Starmer and Downing Street last night hit out at the billionaire for suggesting 'civil war is inevitable' following days of rioting fuelled by disinformation on social media after the deaths of three little girls in Southport last week. Asked about Mr Musk's comments today, Justice minister Heidi Alexander told BBC Breakfast 'everyone should be calling for calm' and that Musk in particular 'has a responsibility given the huge platform he has, and so, to be honest, I think his comments are pretty deplorable'. The Prime Minister's spokesman yesterday said there was 'no justification for comments like that', prompting Mr Musk to reply directly by responding to a video posted by the PM stressing attacks on mosques and Muslims would not be tolerated. The mogul, who is the richest man in the world with more than $200billion and has 193million followers on X, asked Sir Keir: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities?' Overnight he then responded to a cartoon featuring offensive caricatures of two men, one wearing a headband featuring the flag of Pakistan, holding a knife, alongside a police officer with the caption: 'We are here to protect you.' Underneath is a man saying: 'I don't want my children to get stabbed', while a police officer accuses him of being a 'Nazi'. The user who posted the cartoon wrote 'The UK police are compromised' - to which Musk responded: 'Does seem one-sided'. So-called 'two tier policing' is a claim often used by the far-right to imply that police treat certain groups of people in different ways. Ms Alexander attacked Mr Musk again in a separate interview this morning. She told Times Radio: 'I agree with what the spokesperson on behalf of the Prime Minister was saying yesterday. I do think these comments are unjustifiable. 'If you have got a platform, a large social media platform, then you have also got a responsibility. 'I think it is deeply irresponsible, I think everyone should be appealing for calm. 'Use of language such as a 'civil war' is in no way acceptable. We are seeing police officers being seriously injured, buildings set alight, and so I really do think that everyone who has a platform should be exercising their power responsibly.' Elon Musk hit out at the UK's police last night as he responded to an offensive cartoon He added: 'We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities.' In response, Mr Musk wrote: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities?' Musk had earlier replied to a tweet by right-wing commentator Ashley St Clair, who said far-right rioting was down to 'the effects of mass migration', by suggesting 'civil war is inevitable' The clash came as Cabinet ministers blamed social media for allowing hate and fake news to be spread, leading to violent riots by the far-Right that have seen migrant hotels and mosques attacked in the wake of the Southport stabbings a week ago. False claims spread rapidly on X and other social media platforms that the suspect was a Muslim asylum seeker who arrived in the UK by boat a year previously. In fact the 17-year-old suspect was born in Cardiff and has no known links to Islam. Last night hundreds of far-Right activists and anti-racist protesters came face-to-face in Plymouth, where beer bottles, flares and a crutch were flung through the air, leaving police officers injured. And in Birmingham a Sky News van was attacked by a knife-wielding man after members of the Muslim community gathered amid claims far-Right groups would target the Small Heath area. Police have also been warned of alleged plans by far-Right groups to hit dozens of immigration targets across Britain on Wednesday night. Violence erupted again in Belfast last night amid ongoing rioting around the UK The clash came as Cabinet ministers blamed social media for allowing hate and fake news to be spread, leading to violent rioting by the far-Right that have seen migrant hotels and mosques attacked in the wake of the Southport stabbings a week ago. Pictured: Far-right protesters in Plymouth on Monday night Police were out in force and detained far-right protesters in Plymouth on Monday night The violence has seen damage to homes, businesses, hotels and even a library Ministers have said X has helped stoke online hate and refused to delete racist comments while allowing controversial activists such as Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate back on the platform. Pictured: Protesters in Plymouth Home Secretary Yvette Cooper yesterday said social media has put 'rocket boosters' under such groups. Health Secretary Wes Streeting warned that the spread of disinformation online is 'an existential threat to democracy'. He told the Edinburgh Fringe festival: 'We've got to wake up, not just as Britain but as democracies collectively, to what is actually a threat to our democracy, to our national security, to trust in politics, which is already kind of rock bottom anyway.' And Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: 'Responsibility for harmful social media content principally rests with the individuals and groups who create it. 'But it is undeniable that social media has provided a platform for this hate.' BIRMINGHAM: Men gesture to the camera as they stand on a roundabout amid rumours of a far-right gathering PLYMOUTH: Police form a barrier separating protesters in the city as tensions simmer PLYMOUTH: A man yells at counter-protesters as riot police separate the groups to avoid conflict PLYMOUTH: An anti-immigration protester clashes with anti-racism protesters in Plymouth tonight PLYMOUTH: A man faces an anti-racism protester during tense stand-offs in Plymouth SOUTHPORT: In contrast to riots across the country, locals turned out in Southport to lay flowers and teddies and blow bubbles He held individual meetings with bosses from US-based X, Facebook, Google and TikTok yesterday to make clear their responsibility to 'stop the spread of hateful misinformation and incitement'. No 10 said action taken by the firms so far has not gone far enough. 'There is more that they can and should be doing,' Sir Keir's spokesman said. HUDDERSFIELD: Shops in Huddersfield closed early as claims of a planned protest in the town spread on social media PLYMOUTH: A man is handcuffed and led away by a police officer PLYMOUTH: Police detain a protester as earlier clashes began to turn ugly BIRMINGHAM: Pubgoers screamed as protesters faced off against a man outside - before he was kicked to the floor BIRMINGHAM: Some protesters donned masks to stand on the roundabout - as many have in the riots seen in recent days BIRMINGHAM: Young men, some in masks, gathered outside a McDonald's in Bordesley Green, Birmingham amid rumours of a far-right gathering After the first emergency Cobra meeting about the riots, Downing Street also put online agitators on notice that they will be brought to justice alongside the rioters themselves. 'Anyone who is guilty of criminal behaviour online, anyone who is whipping up violence online, will face the full force of law.' The landmark Online Safety Act passed by the previous government will mean tech giants face multi-million pound fines if they fail to protect users from illegal content such as messages provoking hatred, disorder or violence. But the duties on the firms will not come into force for several months, as regulator Ofcom is still consulting on its codes of practice and guidance. However, the watchdog said platforms can act now rather than waiting for the law to come into force. X has been accused of refusing to delete racist comments while allowing controversial activists such as Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate back on the platform. The false claim that a Muslim asylum seeker was the suspect in the Southport stabbings was first made on X by a British woman before going viral when it was spread by Russia-linked fake news website Channel3 Now. And, as the Mail revealed, English Defence League founder Mr Robinson was stoking the race riots with a series of video rants on X while he was on holiday in Cyprus. But Mr Musk himself has made at least ten comments about the riots mostly replying to other users and thereby massively increasing their reach. Mr Musk used his X social media site, formerly known as Twitter, on Sunday to reply to a post that blamed 'mass migration and open borders' for unrest in the UK After a prominent account posted a video of rioters setting off fireworks at police and a Right-wing commentator blamed mass migration, Mr Musk replied: 'Civil war is inevitable.' Asked about the remark, Sir Keir's spokesman said: 'There's no justification for comments like that. 'And what we've seen is organised violent thuggery that has no place on our streets or online.' Yesterday Sir Keir posted a video condemning the violence and warning that criminal justice will be 'ramped up'. He added: 'We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities.' In response, Mr Musk wrote, in a comment that received 70,000 likes and 12,000 reposts in three hours: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on communities?' The X owner also agreed that UK police 'seem one-sided' in response to a cartoon accusing officers of going soft on violent Islamists. And he added: 'If incompatible cultures are brought together without assimilation, conflict is inevitable.' Expert on online disinformation Dr Marc Owen Jones said: 'Musk is definitely fanning the flames he is clearly contributing to the problem.' X did not respond to requests to comment. An innocent British socialite who was put on death row for a double murder 'carried out by Pablo Escobar's hitmen' has died in jail aged 85, his lawyer has confirmed. Kris Maharaj was 'framed' for the murder of two business associates at a Miami hotel room back in 1986 and served 38 years in prison despite being declared innocent by a federal judge five years ago. His lawyer Clive Stafford Smith said on X on Tuesday that Kris had passed away in the hospital after nearly four decades of 'fighting injustice'. Before his arrest, the Brit - who was born in Trinidad - was a multi-millionaire who owned four Rolls-Royces at his home in Peckham, south London, and was an enthusiastic owner of thoroughbred racehorses. In fact, his horses once raced against the Queen's and won. British socialite Kris Maharaj has died aged 85 after spending 38 years in jail for a crime he did not commit The Queen pictured patting her classic filly 'highclere' after a race at Ascot in July 1974. Kris was also a fan of horse-racing, and his horse once raced against the Queen's in the Queen Alexandra stakes at Ascot But his life came crashing down when was arrested at a Miami restaurant while eating dinner with his wife Marita in 1986. He was convicted of the murders of father and son Derrick Moo Young, 53 - a former business associate Kris had fallen out with - and Duane, 23, the following year after a court heard that Kris's fingerprints were found at the scene in the Dupont Plaza Hotel. Kris maintained his innocence throughout, saying that he had been lured into Room 1215 - where the bodies were found - earlier in the day for a meeting but left after nobody showed up. He was sentenced to death despite none of his six alibis being called to testify at trial and the court not being informed a key prosecution witness who claimed to have witnessed Maharaj shoot the associates failed a lie detector test. What followed was a 38-year legal battle which has many a time been likened to something from Netflix series Narcos. In 2002, his lawyer Stafford Smith was able to get the death sentence overturned and commuted to life, with the help of human rights non-profit Reprieve. But the 85-year-old remained in jail until his last breath, despite Pablo Escobar's notorious Medellin drug cartel admitting they were responsible. It is understood documents suppressed by prosecutors later revealed the murder victims were money launderers for Escobar's cartel who were killed after they stole from the drug kingpin. In fact, in 2014 the drug lord's chief assasin Jhon Jairo Velasquez Vasquez sensationally stated Kris had been framed for the murder that was actually the work of Escobar's hitmen. Kris with his wife Marita Maharaj in London in the 1980's Kris's legal team had renewed hopes in 2019 when federal magistrate judge Alicia Otazo-Reyes declared he had proven his innocence and stated that 'no reasonable juror could convict him'. But unfortunately the US Court of Appeals ruled this was not enough to overturn the conviction, with the Supreme Court also rejecting his bid for review last year. His wife had vowed not to return home to the UK until he was free but was forced to earlier this year due to poor health. Of his death, Stafford Smith also wrote on X today: 'Kris Maharaj will come home - as that's his and Marita's wish, so we will have a funeral in Bridport in due course.' He added: 'It is very sad: 13808 days of suffering over with his death at 1pm ET yesterday. We are going to have to bring Kris Maharaj's body back for burial in Dorset - working on that now. 'I hope there will be a good turn out celebrating his life and loyal wife Marita.' Human rights lawyer Stafford Smith fought to Kris's last days to free him. Just last month, he tweeted on X asking for a fingerprint expert to help in tracking down whether unknown prints in Kris's case could be linked to one of the killers in the Muriel McKay case. Kris pictured leaving court in Miami for the first time in 11 years for his death penalty to be lifted According to The Mirror, the lawyer is looking into whether Kris was stitched up by a friend, Adam Hosein, who ran front companies for Escobar, and who was also questioned by UK police in 1969 over Muriel's murder. Hosein had fled the country soon after he was questioned, but his two brothers were jailed for life for the kidnap and murder of Muriel. Hotel records for the Du Pont Plaza in Miami allegedly revealed a message was left for Hosein at room 1215 - the same room the Moo Youngs were found dead in. In an interview for Sky News four years ago, Kris had said: 'When they found me guilty, I passed out, I fainted. I just couldn't believe you could be found guilty [of] something you didn't do - murder. 'It is very difficult to wake up every morning and think, 'What on God's earth am I doing here? These people know I am innocent.' Canary Wharf Underground station in London has been evacuated after a 'man falls from height' with dozens seen running as police shout for passengers to 'get out as fast as you can'. A huge emergency response arrived outside of the station in East London, with police cars, ambulances and paramedics in the area. A single person was seen being taken into an ambulance on a stretcher, The Mirror reported. British Transport Police (BTP) said: 'Officers were called to Canary Wharf underground station at 1.07pm to reports of a medical incident. Paramedics also attended and a man was taken to hospital with serious injuries. The incident is not being treated as suspicious.' The BTP confirmed the fall had occurred from inside of the station and the person did not fall onto the tracks. British Transport Police partly closed off the Underground station as TFL announced the Jubilee Line would not be running due to a 'customer incident'. The station was partly reopened 30 minutes later, TfL Access posted on X: 'Canary Wharf - Part Closed - Jubilee line. Trains are not stopping on the westbound Jubilee line while we deal with a customer incident.' The station this afternoon as a huge emergency response and evacuation were underway A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said: 'We were called at 12.50pm today (6 August) to reports of a person fallen from height at Canary Wharf Underground Station, Bank Street, E14. 'We sent resources to the scene, including an ambulance crew, a paramedic in a fast response car, an incident response officer and members of our hazardous area response team (HART). 'We treated a man at the scene and took him to a major trauma centre.' One user on X posted: 'Having a police officer scream 'get out as quick as you can, move' on the platforms of Canary Wharf is a scary experience.' TFL staff erected emergency barriers, cutting off access to the station. TFL, Met Police, The BTP and London Fire Brigade has been approached for comment. A corporate pilot suffered up to 80 bites after staying at a hotel in Idaho where it is legal for hotels to have bed bugs. The pilot identified as Jack C. was staying at the FairBridge Inn & Suites in Idaho Falls on Wednesday night when he woke up and noticed he was covered in red welts from head to toe. He took photos and video of the bites and reported it to the front desk but said they 'seemed to be unfazed.' When he contacted the health department he was shocked when he learned that the state does not inspect hotels for bedbugs after a complaint is made, East Idaho News reported. Jack said he stays in hotels at least eight months out of the year, and said in his 10 plus years he has been flying, he has never come in contact with bed bugs Jack C, showed the large swollen red welts on his back after spending a night in the bed bug infested FairBridge Inn & Suites in Idaho Falls He took photos and videos of the bites that were all over his body Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed. They are long and brown with a flat, oval shaped body. Young bed bugs, also called nymphs, are more translucent and whitish-yellow in color, the EPA website states. The most common bed bug, known as cimex lectularius, feeds on blood, causing itchy bites that irritate the skin. 'The scary thing is that it spreads like that. I check out, throw my bag in the airplane and go to the next destination,' Jack said. When DailyMail.com contacted FairBridge Inn & Suites the manager did not respond to a request for comment. AJ McWhorter, a spokesman for the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, said bed bugs do not carry disease so are not considered a public threat. But added, 'They are certainly a concern because they might cause itching and loss of sleep and have a definite 'gross factor.' McWhorter further stated that local and state public health agencies are not responsible for investigating hotel bedbug reports, despite guest complaints. There are 21 states that have laws or regulations regarding bedbugs but Idaho is not one of them, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as per the news outlet. The lack of regulation in other states may be due to how costly it is to get rid of the pesky critters. Rein Wel with Fall Pest Services told the news outlet that bed bugs breed every 10 days - making it difficult to ensure that they are really gone. 'They're hard to get rid of is because people will use over-the-counter self treatment options, which most of the time, that actually makes them worse. The Fairbridge Inn & Suites in Idaho Falls where Jack C. experienced the bed bug infestation 'It actually pushes them into the walls, where they continue breeding. Once that product is no longer active, they come out full force.' A colony of bed bugs - its larvae and eggs pictured on a mattress The blood sucking insects breed very quickly, every 10 days according to Rein Weil with Falls Pest Services in Idaho Falls In 2013, Chicago and Nevada passed an ordinance that requires licensed businesses in the city to be responsible for their own pest control services when a bed bug problem arises. Hotels in both states are prohibited from renting rooms if there are bed bugs, and must fumigate, disinfect, exterminate. The Centers for Disease Control states explained that bed bugs are not seen as a 'priority,' and local public health departments have very limited resources to combat the problem. 'Municipal codes struggle to identify those responsible for control of bedbug infestations. Tenants and landlords often dispute who is ultimately responsible for the cost of control and treatment,' the agency reported. Experts believe the recent increase in bed bugs in the United States may be due to more travel, lack of knowledge about preventing infestations, increased resistance of bed bugs to pesticides, and ineffective pest control practices, as per the EPA's website. An Oklahoma City phone repair shop worker was arrested after he allegedly sent himself a video of a female customer 'undressed' without her consent. Kayahan Altun was arrested on larceny and computer crimes charges after he allegedly sent himself a racy video off an unidentified female customer's phone during a repair on Friday, according to KFOR. The woman said she found out Altun had sent the video to himself after she received the notification on her laptop showing the message had been sent to an unknown number while she waited for her phone to be repaired inside The Fix located in Penn Square Mall. 'It was a video of me undressed basically, and had been sent to a random phone number,' she told KFOR. 'I was just so in shock.' The private video had been stored in the 'hidden' folder on her iPhone and was taken two years ago. Kayahan Altun was arrested on larceny and computer crimes charges after he allegedly sent himself a racy video off an unidentified female customer's phone during a repair on Friday The woman said she found out Altun had sent the video to himself after she received the notification on her laptop showing the message had been sent to an unknown number while she waited for her phone to be repaired inside The Fix located in Penn Square Mall (pictured) The folder required a passcode, which matched the code to her phone, which she had given to Altun prior to its repair. Altun allegedly deleted the message he sent himself off her phone by the time she picked it up, but it was still available to view on her laptop. But it was when he handed her a business card that it all clicked. The phone on the card matched the number the message had been sent too, she told KFOR. 'I was freaking out because he had obviously been through my photos on my phone,' she told the local outlet. 'He hands me his business card, and it has his name and his phone number on it, and he says to call or text him if I have any problems with my phone. 'I can only imagine he probably has other people that hes done this to. Considering how bold he was to give me his phone number on a card.' Prior to moving to Oklahoma City, Altun, pictured above, worked in New York and Turkey She later contacted the police after confirming the numbers match and when officers made contact with The Fix manager and called the number, his phone rang. He was arrested and he later posted bond. Altun has been working for the company since January, according to his LinkedIn. Prior to moving to Oklahoma City, he worked in New York and Turkey. Altun and The Fix did not immediately respond to the DailyMail.com's requests for comment. Eric Trump branded Prince Harry and Meghan Markle 'spoiled apples' and echoed his father's claims the Duke of Sussex could be deported if he wins the presidential election. As Donald Trump continues to vie for the presidency, he has suggested Prince Harry may be deported if the prince is found to have falsified information on his visa form. Harry, who has lived in the US since 2020, lives in a nine-bedroom Montecito mansion with his wife Meghan Markle and their two children, Archie and Lilibet. The former president's second son Eric told GB News during a trip to the Trump International Golf Links in Scotland that his father is a strong ally of the UK and gave his real feelings about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. 'You can happily have those two [Meghan and Harry], we might not want them anymore, it feels like they're on an island of their own,' he said. Eric Trump branded Prince Harry and Meghan Markle 'spoiled apples' and echoed his father's claims the couple could be deported Harry, who has lived in the US since 2020, lives in a nine-bedroom Montecito mansion with his wife Meghan Markle and their two children 'You can always have bad actors in everything. You can have spoiled apples in every orchard.' Eric said his father loves the UK - and added the Royal Family ought to be protected. 'My mom [Ivana Trump] knew so many of them for years and had a great relationship with Diana,' he said. 'It's a sacred institution.' 'The institution of the Royal Family is beautiful and is admired by many Americans. That should be protected.' Trump has been a heavy critic of Harry and Meghan, and believed they betrayed the Queen with their public scrutiny. The royal couple announced in 2020 they would step back from their duties in the Royal family and left the United Kingdom to live in the United States. The pair were critical of the Royal family and palace staff, accusing them of failing to support Meghan as she struggled with the stresses of living in the media spotlight. Trump TV presenter Nigel Farage (right) on GB News that Harry would not get 'special privileges' if he lied about his drug use on his visa The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were critical of the Royal family and palace staff, accusing them of failing to support Meghan 'I came to understand that not only was I not being protected, but that they were willing to lie to protect other members of the family,' Meghan said during an interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021. 'They weren't willing to tell the truth to protect me and my husband.' Trump said he sided with Queen Elizabeth anyway, because he viewed her with respect after their meeting. 'I would say, although she wouldnt show it because she was strong and smart, but I would imagine they broke her heart,' Trump said. The former president told TV presenter Nigel Farage on GB News that Harry would not get 'special privileges' if he lied about his drug use. In the prince's autobiography 'Spare' he revealed he previously took drugs, which under US law would normally be grounds for a visa application to be rejected. In the book he admitted to using to cocaine, cannabis and psychedelic mushrooms. A 'relentless' hero dog has been credited for saving the life of her 81-year-old owner after she suffered a stroke. Retha Cobb fell outside her home in Dothan, Alabama, last week before she started to complain about a headache and then lost consciousness, as reported by WTVY. Her husband Jerry was in another room and unaware that Cobb had passed out after suffering a brain injury. But Kismet Litze, a Lhapso Apso dog, began alerting Jerry to the situation, barking relentlessly until he realized Cobb was unconscious in another room. Doctors believe the fall caused Cobb to have a stroke, and that she could have died if she had not received medical attention when she did. A 'relentless' hero dog has been credited for saving the life of his 81-year-old owner after she suffered a stroke Cobb had emergency surgery and was responsive as soon as the next day. However, on Thursday she suffered another brain bleed and was sent in for another surgery and has a long recovery ahead. Kismet is reportedly waiting for Cobb back at their family farm in Ashford. The dog is so heartbroken over Cobb's absence, per the family, that she is barely eating or going outside. The dog is so heartbroken over Cobb's absence, per the family, that she is barely eating or going outside. Kismet is seen with Cobb's husband Jerry Cobb and Kismet - whose name means fate or destiny - came together years ago after a nationwide search for her perfect companion. Her daughter Aimee said it was love at first sight, with Cobb saying Kismet was 'her destiny.' 'We didnt think much of it, except if it hadnt been for the dog, we would not have been alerted to moms condition,' Aimee told WTVY. Far-right thugs in Nottingham have targeted a 'vulnerable' pensioner's home for a riot after mistaking it for an immigration business, police have warned. Protestors have been encouraged in a social media post to 'mask up' for the event, which is set to take place tomorrow. The planned protest follows days of rioting across the country fuelled by disinformation on social media after the deaths of three little girls in Southport last week. But police have said the location has 'no links to the business advertised on the internet' and is instead the home of an elderly person. The force's statement was issued on Tuesday afternoon after a social media user posted on X claiming that 'far right fascist groups' were planning to target her 'Nana's address' in Nottingham because her father's freelance immigration advisor business was registered to the house. Protestors have been encouraged in a social media post to 'mask up' for the event, which is set to take place on Wednesday, August 7 (Picture: Police officers form a line during 'Enough is Enough' demonstration on Friday) Police have said the location for the protest has 'no links to the business advertised on the internet' and is instead the home of an elderly person The planned protest follows days of rioting (pictured in Nottingham Market Square on Friday) across the country fuelled by disinformation on social media after the deaths of three little girls in Southport last week Police have been warned of alleged plans by far-Right groups to hit dozens of immigration targets across Britain on Wednesday night (People protest in Nottingham Market Square on Monday) Posting onto X, formally known as Twitter, the account said: 'Friends in Nottingham. My dad is a freelance immigration advisor. His business address is registered at my nan's house in West Bridgford where she lives by herself. 'The far right fascist groups are now targeting immigration services across the UK. 'They have published my Nana's address as their Nottingham target on Wednesday night at 8pm.' Later that day, Nottinghamshire Police confirmed it was aware of a potential protest being organised in the city and said the location had 'no links whatsoever to any immigration business'. A spokesperson for the force said: 'We are aware of a potential protest being organised in Nottingham on Wednesday evening. 'The location has no links to the business advertised on the internet. 'Officers have visited the address and it is home to an elderly person with vulnerabilities.' 'It has no links whatsoever to any immigration business. 'We would strongly advise that those wishing to attend any protest in this location refrain from doing so as this is an elderly persons home address. Thank you.' The planned protest comes as Cabinet ministers blamed social media for allowing hate and fake news to be spread, leading to violent riots by the far-right that have seen migrant hotels and mosques attacked in the wake of the Southport stabbings a week ago. The clash came as Cabinet ministers blamed social media for allowing hate and fake news to be spread, leading to violent rioting by the far-Right that have seen migrant hotels and mosques attacked in the wake of the Southport stabbings a week ago. (Pictured: Far-right protesters in Plymouth on Monday night) Police were out in force and detained far-right protesters in Plymouth on Monday night Ministers have said X has helped stoke online hate and refused to delete racist comments while allowing controversial activists such as Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate back on the platform. (Pictured: Protesters in Plymouth) False claims spread rapidly on X and other social media platforms that the suspect was a Muslim asylum seeker who arrived in the UK by boat a year previously. In fact the 17-year-old suspect was born in Cardiff and has no known links to Islam. Last night hundreds of far-Right activists and anti-racist protesters came face-to-face in Plymouth, where beer bottles, flares and a crutch were flung through the air, leaving police officers injured. And in Birmingham a Sky News van was attacked by a knife-wielding man after members of the Muslim community gathered amid claims far-Right groups would target the Small Heath area. Police have also been warned of alleged plans by far-Right groups to hit dozens of immigration targets across Britain on Wednesday night. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper yesterday said social media has put 'rocket boosters' under such groups. Health Secretary Wes Streeting warned that the spread of disinformation online is 'an existential threat to democracy'. He told the Edinburgh Fringe festival: 'We've got to wake up, not just as Britain but as democracies collectively, to what is actually a threat to our democracy, to our national security, to trust in politics, which is already kind of rock bottom anyway.' And Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: 'Responsibility for harmful social media content principally rests with the individuals and groups who create it. 'But it is undeniable that social media has provided a platform for this hate.' He held individual meetings with bosses from US-based X, Facebook, Google and TikTok yesterday to make clear their responsibility to 'stop the spread of hateful misinformation and incitement'. No 10 said action taken by the firms so far has not gone far enough. BIRMINGHAM: Men gesture to the camera as they stand on a roundabout amid rumours of a far-right gathering PLYMOUTH: An anti-immigration protester clashes with anti-racism protesters in Plymouth on Monday BIRMINGHAM: Some protesters donned masks to stand on the roundabout - as many have in the riots seen in recent days 'There is more that they can and should be doing,' Sir Keir's spokesman said. After the first emergency Cobra meeting about the riots, Downing Street also put online agitators on notice that they will be brought to justice alongside the rioters themselves. 'Anyone who is guilty of criminal behaviour online, anyone who is whipping up violence online, will face the full force of law.' The landmark Online Safety Act passed by the previous government will mean tech giants face multi-million pound fines if they fail to protect users from illegal content such as messages provoking hatred, disorder or violence. But the duties on the firms will not come into force for several months, as regulator Ofcom is still consulting on its codes of practice and guidance. However, the watchdog said platforms can act now rather than waiting for the law to come into force. X has been accused of refusing to delete racist comments while allowing controversial activists such as Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate back on the platform. The false claim that a Muslim asylum seeker was the suspect in the Southport stabbings was first made on X by a British woman before going viral when it was spread by Russia-linked fake news website Channel3 Now. And, as the Mail revealed, English Defence League founder Mr Robinson was stoking the race riots with a series of video rants on X while he was on holiday in Cyprus. But Mr Musk himself has made at least ten comments about the riots mostly replying to other users and thereby massively increasing their reach. BIRMINGHAM: Young men, some in masks, gathered outside a McDonald's in Bordesley Green, Birmingham amid rumours of a far-right gathering HUDDERSFIELD: Shops in Huddersfield closed early as claims of a planned protest in the town spread on social media After a prominent account posted a video of rioters setting off fireworks at police and a Right-wing commentator blamed mass migration, Mr Musk replied: 'Civil war is inevitable.' Asked about the remark, Sir Keir's spokesman said: 'There's no justification for comments like that. 'And what we've seen is organised violent thuggery that has no place on our streets or online.' Yesterday Sir Keir posted a video condemning the violence and warning that criminal justice will be 'ramped up'. He added: 'We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities.' In response, Mr Musk wrote, in a comment that received 70,000 likes and 12,000 reposts in three hours: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on communities?' The X owner also agreed that UK police 'seem one-sided' in response to a cartoon accusing officers of going soft on violent Islamists. And he added: 'If incompatible cultures are brought together without assimilation, conflict is inevitable.' Expert on online disinformation Dr Marc Owen Jones said: 'Musk is definitely fanning the flames he is clearly contributing to the problem.' X did not respond to requests to comment. A historic farm that harks back to the days before the American Revolution has been put up for sale for a plum $5.95million. 'Fogland Farm' was built in Tiverton, Rhode Island, way back in 1730, and has only been owned by three families in the nearly three centuries since. Among them was Colonel John Cook, one of the original owners, who served in the conflict against the British from 1775 to 1779. The last time the estate was put up for sell was in 1977, when a now 92-year-old Bernie Taradash purchased it with his wife Geri Taradash. He had the farm with three homes, two barns, and seven horse stalls completely renovated, so the insides match the beauty of the 84 acres that surround it. He also managed to keep its colonial roots, with adornments reminiscent of a bygone era. 'Fogland Farm' was built in Tiverton, Rhode Island, way back in 1730, and has only been owned by three families in the nearly three centuries since The farm features three homes, two barns, and seven horse stalls, as well as 84 idyllic acres of rolling farmland 'Welcome to Fogland Farm, an historic gem cherished by only three families over its 295-year history,' the fresh listing from Sotheby's currently states. 'This landmark property spans 84 acres of gently rolling farmland, complete with three homes, two horse barns, and two building sites. 'The 1730 Georgian Revival home stands proudly on an elevated rise, offering panoramic views of Nonquit Pond to the east,' it goes on to say. In the distance, the Sakonnet River and the Atlantic Ocean to the south can also be seen, listing agents Liz Kinnane and Cherry Arnold write - all from the 'stately' main residence that boasts 8 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and 4,565 square feet of living space. It also features two drawing rooms, a living room, four fireplaces, and a screened porch that overlooks the east side of the estate, as well as the two additional homes erected in 1900 by the second set of owners, the Batemans of nearby Newport. They complement the main house with a cozy one-bedroom, one-bath Cape - a low, broad, single or double-story frame building with a moderately-steep-pitched roof - and a 'quaint' two-bedroom, one bath, ranch-style residence. The surrounding farm is perfect for equestrian enthusiasts, the realtors add - citing its 12,000 square foot horse barn with an indoor rink and high ceilings for jumping. It also has 15 stalls to house the equines as well as a heated tack room to keep them warm, and is bolstered by a 2,880 square-foot Gambrel roof barn with seven more stalls. The farm is perfect for equestrian enthusiasts, with plenty of room for the animals to ride and roam 'Ideally situated near Fogland Beaches, Tiverton Four Corners, and Little Compton, Fogland Farm', the listing states, the home offers 'a unique opportunity to own a piece of New England heritage' The main has 15 stalls to house the equines. as well as a heated tack room to keep them warm Overall, the estate has two horse barns, with room for plenty of equines Its history dates back to the days when there was only 12 colonies, before Georgia joined in 1733. Ironically, the home is made in the Georgian Revival style A smaller, two-level barn can also be found there, though it is currently in use as an art studio, the listing agents say. Their post goes on to point out how the grounds are adorned with historic garnishes outside, such as stone walls, apple and blueberry orchards, and open fields sure to transport the new owners to a simpler time. It also boasts 'turn-outs' for horse riding, a term for dedicated pastures and fields for the animals to roam on. 'Ideally situated near Fogland Beaches, Tiverton Four Corners, and Little Compton, Fogland Farm', the listing states, the home offers 'a unique opportunity to own a piece of New England heritage.' That history dates back to the days when there was only 12 colonies - Georgia wouldn't be added to the fold until three years later, in 1733. Thirty-three years before, Captain John Cook, on of the earlier settlers in the area and a Constable, snapped up the land, before his son built on it in 1730. A post-and-beam house was the result, eventually bequeathed to his own son John, the eventual Colonel. He served in Newport's Second Regiment for four years before ultimately surviving the war, dying at age 67 in Newport in 1812. Newly renovated, so the insides match the beauty of the 84 acres that surround it But it still manages to stay true its colonial roots, with adornments reminiscent of a bygone era The home still stands today. One of its many bathrooms is seen here Inside one of the horse barns at 'Fogland Farm', which also known as the the Cook-Bateman home after the first two families who owned it The result is the home seen here in the mid-nineteenth century - a testament to all things able to stand the test of time His family would keep the farm in their possession until 1819, when it was purchased by William Bateman of Newport. Bateman was credited with transforming the Tiverton's city center into a bona fide hub, and kept the home in his family for the next 150 or so years. The baton of ownership was then passed to the Taradashes, whose patriarch acted as his own carpenter to save money to restore the then aging home. He told Fortune Magazine of the ensuing facelift 'we went from crisis to crisis', but by 1981, after funneling more than $200,000 into the project, the home was complete. 'If I had to do it over again, I wouldn't,' Bernie Taradash told the publication at the time. 'It was a more overwhelming experience than I realized, but once committed, you can't turn back.' The result is the home that still stands there today - a testament to all things able to stand the test of time. And it can be yours, if you have $6million to spare. Progressive Squad member Rep. Cori Bush is in real danger of losing her reelection bid as Missouri voters head to the polls today. The controversial Democrat is in a hotly-contested race against a centrist challenger who has been hammering Bush for her record of supporting pro-Gaza protests and causes. Polls close in Missouri at 7:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, and her fate will be sealed by tonight. If Bush loses her primary next week it would make her the second Squad member to lose reelection this year. Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., lost his primary to a more moderate Democrat earlier this summer. Rep. Cori Bush, D-mo., a progressive 'Squad' member and former Black Lives Matter organizer, was six points behind her Democratic primary opponent Wesley Bell in a poll released just one week before the scheduled election. If she loses to Bell, she will be the second Squad member to lose their primary elections this year A shocking survey last week showed Bush's campaign trailing by a massive six points as she looks to avoid being the second progressive Squad member ousted this year. The Mellman Group on behalf of the Democratic Majority For Israel PAC released a poll showing Bush's challenger St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell ahead of her 48 percent to 42 percent. Similar to Bush's race against Bell, Bowman's race in New York hinged on a key issue: the Israel-Hamas war. Bowman, a fellow member of the Squad (at least for now before he leaves Congress this winter), fiercely defended Palestinians and decried the Israeli's actions as 'genocide.' His reward for repeatedly attacking the Jewish nation's wartime conduct: a pro-Israel SuperPAC coming after him. AIPAC, a pro-Israel political group, spent massively against Bowman, pumping millions upon millions into the campaign of a local county executive. With the support of the group, Westchester County Executive George Latimer, a moderate Democrat, sailed to an easy primary win, securing over 59 percent of the vote compared to Bowman's 40 percent. Meanwhile in Missouri, Bell has had a much tamer tone on the Israel-Hamas war while Bush has loudly advocated for pro-Gaza policies and has thrown her support by anti-Israel protestors, a difference that is expected to impact the race. St. Louis County Prosecutor, Wesley Bell gives remarks during the Ferguson mayoral inauguration. He has beat Bush in consecutive polls from the Mellman Group, possibly indicating he could unseat the incumbent And AIPAC is clearly looking to replicate their maneuver against Bowman to strong arm Bush out of office. 'AIPAC's grassroots members are proud to support strong pro-Israel progressive Democrats like Wesley Bell,' an AIPAC wrote statement recently. 'Cori Bush has been one of the most hostile critics of Israel since she came to Congress in 2021 and has actively worked to undermine mainstream Democratic support for the U.S.-Israel relationship.' In the spring Bush even hosted an event for anti-Israel protestors that were removed by police from George Washington University for squatting on campus property in an encampment for a week. She and fellow Squad mate Rep. Rashida Tlaib celebrated the students's heroics at a press conference in front of the U.S. Capitol. More recently Bush skipped Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's joint address to Congress last week. Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo., and Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., accompanied by George Washington University students speaks during a news conference at the U.S. Capitol, Wednesday, May 8, 2024, in Washington, after police cleared a pro-Palestinian tent encampment at George Washington University early Wednesday and arrested demonstrators. (L-R) US Representative Rashida Tlaib, Democrat of Michigan, and US Representative Cori Bush, Democrat of Missouri, hold signs reading 'Stop Sending Bombs' and 'Lasting Ceasefire Now' as US President Joe Biden delivers the State of the Union address in the House Chamber of the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on March 7, 2024 Bell has had a much tamer tone on the Israel-Hamas war than Bush, an issue that proved to be damning for Jamaal Bowman, who critics believe lost his race, in part, because of his loud support of Gaza and condemnations of Israel The prosecutor has beat Bush in recent polls for months, showing the former Black Lives Matter organizer consistently behind him. The poll, which was conducted from July 21-24 among 400 in-district voters, has a margin of error of plus or minus 4.9%. The bad news for Bush is that this poll is a major improvement for her opponent Bell. In June a poll from the same group found him leading the incumbent by a narrow one point margin, up 43 percent to Bush's 42 percent. In addition to Bush and Bowman, Squad founding member Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., is also facing a difficult Democratic primary challenger who she narrowly beat in 2022. The Democratic primary between Bush and Bell is scheduled for August 6. Rep. Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco published a new book that chronicles her toughest political battles while leading the House of Representatives. Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call via Getty Images The media frenzy that arose in the aftermath of the attack on Paul Pelosi was a painful experience that led to a second assault on her family, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi said in her new book, The Art of Power. The book, she was careful to point out, is not a memoir but a rendering of the most consequential challenges of my time in the leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives. The book details several political battles, including the passage of the Affordable Care Act and the governments response to the 2008 financial crisis but the most personal chapter is about the brutal attack on her husband, Paul, on Oct. 28, 2022. The intruder, David DePape, was convicted in both federal and state courts and is expected to spend decades in prison. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Pelosi wrote that she didnt want her five children and then-nine grandchildren to find out about the attack from anyone else. However, it would turn out that the media news cycle was moving so quickly that I could not reach each child first; only two would hear about what had happened to their father directly from me. It created a terrible and very difficult reaction for many in our family. The reporting was often incorrect and incomplete, and it would grow worse as the hours dragged on. I cannot even begin to describe how painful and devastating it was for them to learn of a vicious assault on their father or grandfather in this way, Pelosi wrote. She was in Washington, D.C., at the time of the attack, though DePape told investigators the then-House speaker was his intended target. One daughter found out from a voicemail Pelosi left, another found out from friends in the news media, one grandchild found out from her middle school friends and another was told by a school counselor, she wrote. When Paul Pelosi left the hospital after a skull fracture and injuries to his right arm and hands, he was met by a media barrage outside: reporters, cameras, even a helicopter noisily circling overhead. It was a bombardment of light and sound, bright and loud exactly what his doctors had directed him to avoid. This media onslaught outside our home continued for days. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Pelosi has told a story for decades about asking her youngest daughter, Alexandra, for permission to run for Congress and the then-16-year-old telling her get a life. After the attack on Paul, Nancy Pelosi wrote that Alexandra told her, If I had known what we were signing up for, if I had known this was where it was going to go, I would never have given you my blessing thirty-five years ago. The attack left lasting trauma on her family and left her with survivors guilt, she wrote. Pelosi seemed to echo her daughters regret when reflecting on the lasting effects on her husband. From housewife to House member to House Speaker, I certainly would never have broken the marble ceiling without Pauls support, encouragement, and love. And I would never have done it if I thought it would one day cause him to risk his own life, she wrote. Advertisement Article continues below this ad She said that he continues to have headaches and dizziness and has to avoid extended exposure to bright lights and loud noises. Pelosi also shared some of her most candid thoughts about former President Donald Trump to date. On the morning she was set to announce the opening of an impeachment inquiry into Trump allegedly soliciting foreign interference in the 2020 U.S. presidential election, Trump called Pelosi and attempted to explain that the call where he allegedly did so was a perfect call where he didnt pressure anyone. He complained about how this announcement was happening today, the day when he was speaking to the U.N. General Assembly. Pelosi wrote, Ive had a lot of conversations with this man, and at the end of nearly all of them, I think, Either you are stupid, or you think that the rest of us are. Advertisement Article continues below this ad She also gave readers insight into the infamous moment when she ripped up a copy of Trumps 2020 State of the Union speech right behind him. I had intended to mark each page of the speech that contained a lie with a little tear in the paper so I could go back and easily find the pages. But as Trump continued speaking, it was not just one, two, three, or four pages with lies. It was pages and pages of them. At the close of the speech, disgusted with what I heard, I ripped the pages from end to end. Pelosi appeared to make peace with the decades of attacks and threats to her life in the final page of her book. Sister Joyce Weller of the Daughters of Charity shared with me how in 1993 she came across a beautiful prayer posted on the wall of a hospital in Sierra Leone: When I die and happily meet my Creator, He will ask me to show Him my wounds. If I tell Him that I have no wounds, my Creator will ask: Was nothing worth fighting for? Advertisement Article continues below this ad A taxi driver went on a rampage through Cologne's old town, running over two groups of women before a hero managed to apprehend him. The Jordanian, 44, from Velbert, reportedly raced his car down a street in North Rhine-Westphalia shortly after 10pm where he hit two women - aged 22 and 23 - head on. He then sped on in his Volkswagen Passat towards the Rhine River where he hit two more women as a fifth woman managed to save herself by jumping to the side, BILD report. German reports suggested the act was 'deliberate', and a 27-year-old woman has been left seriously injured. A waiter, 34, from the brewery in front of where the crime took place - near to Alter Markt - was described as a 'hero' after he managed to detain the driver until the police arrived. A look at the route the taxi driver took as he ran over two groups of women in Cologne A taxi driver deliberately ran over two groups of women in Cologne's old town before a hero apprehended him. Pictured: An aerial view of Cologne over the Rhine River A police statement read that the man 'gave chase on foot', putting himself in grave danger, after the taxi came towards him without breaking. The outside mirror was said to have touched his upper body after he jumped to the side. After the Jordanian driver exited his vehicle at Alter Markt, the waiter held the driver until police arrived. It is said that a similar incident occurred in Essen around an hour earlier, where a pedestrian suffered life-threatening injuries from a crash. Cologne police are investigating whether it is the same driver as the one in Cologne. Both cocaine and cannabis were found in the 44-year-old's car after he was detained, and a blood test was ordered. The former CEO of Premier League team Liverpool has revealed how an Apple Watch saved his life while driving to an airport. Peter Moore, who now lives in Montecito, California, explained why he credits health and fitness notifications from his Apple Watch during an interview with KTLA 5 yesterday. 'I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for this little device,' Moore said during his interview. He was heading to Santa Barbara Airport to pick up his daughter, Tara, when he began to feel 'light-headed' and 'faint.' Thinking a stop at Starbucks would help, Moore was shocked to see a notification on his Apple Watch that detected he had a low heart rate. Peter Moore, of Montecito, California, explained how an Apple Watch saved his life Moore with Jurgen Klopp, who was Liverpool's manager while he was CEO at the club Moore said he had never seen that notification before, and he was shocked to see his heart had dropped to 32. 'I swallowed my male pride, sent a photograph to my wife of the low heart rate notification,' he added in an interview with Rich on Tech. His wife demanded he stay put, picked him up, and drove him to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. Within five minutes of being admitted, Moore - who was CEO of Premier League giants Liverpool from 2017 to 2020 - was in the emergency room, surrounded by medical professionals with defibrillators pads and IVs. 'I was descended upon by a crash team who, within seconds, had me prodded, probed, and hooked up to monitors, which immediately started printing out an electrocardiogram,' Moore wrote on LinkedIn. 'Within two minutes, the ER doctor ran in, rather theatrically waving the ECG printout, shouting, "This is not good! This is not good! You are going to need a pacemaker,"' he said. Moore's BPM eventually dropped to 24 and he was in complete heart block - a condition in which the body's electrical signals are disrupted. A doctor implanted a pacemaker in Moore just hours after he arrived at the hospital. Moore believed he would have collapsed if he had ignored his watch notification, and risked his daughter's safety while driving on the freeway. Moore was driving to Santa Barbara Airport to pick up his daughter, Tara, when he began to feel 'light-headed' and 'faint' Moore's Apple Watch indicated that his heart rate dropped to 32, and he sent a screenshot of the notification to his wife Moore's BPM eventually dropped to 24 and he was in complete heart block - a condition in which the body's electrical signals are disrupted Moore with Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk. Moore has felt 'great' ever since he had a pacemaker implanted, and claimed that he was at a healthy 65 BPM Omid Yousefian, who operated on Moore, confirmed to KTLA 5 that the Apple Watch 'had a big role' in saving his life. 'These days, 25 percent of the population over the age of 40 have a high chance to experience atrial fibrillation,' the cardiologist said. Yousefian added that Apple Watches can also sense high heart rates and heart block. However, Apple Watches and other wearables cannot detect heart attacks. 'For us physicians, symptoms are the most important thing,' Yousefian said. Moore claimed that he has felt 'great' since Yousefian implanted the pacemaker, and was at 65 BPM. 'I think that the wearable market, in particular, for the value it provides, not just in your daily life, but literally informing you about your health in real-time. And in my instance, I think, saving my life,' he told KTLA 5. A Louisiana father awoke to find his two-year-old son dying from a gunshot wound after the toddler pulled a weapon from under a pillow while the dad slept. Devonte Chambers, 29, told police he had been smoking marijuana before taking the little boy into a bedroom of the Baton Rouge home for a nap shortly before 2 p.m. on Sunday. Chambers then fell asleep while watching a movie before the child saw the gun's magazine sticking out from under the pillow inside the home on Sora Street. Paramedics found the toddler, also named Devonte, with a bullet hole in his upper torso before taking him to a local hospital, where he was declared dead. 'The dad had his gun out and his two-year-old son was playing with his gun and accidentally shot himself,' said Lieutenant L'Jean McNeely of the Baton Rouge Police Department. Devonte Chambers, 29, has been charged with negligent homicide in the death of his two-year-old son Chambers was asleep at his home in Baton Rouge when the little boy found a gun under a pillow and fatally shot himself Chambers' grandfather, Richard Brown, was cooking in the kitchen of the home when he heard a gunshot and saw his grandson come out of the bedroom holding the fatally injured boy, he told WVLA. 'Oh my God my baby had been shot, Lord have mercy,' he said. 'I feel very terrible about this.' Police the gun had been bought by Chambers and had an extended magazine, which may have been sticking out from under the pillow. Chambers was arrested and charged with negligent homicide at East Baton Rouge Parish Prison where he is being held on a $75,000 bond. Less than five months ago, and 15 blocks to the south, another Baton Rouge parent awoke to the sound of a gunshot when her young son shot himself with an unsecured weapon. Arieana Scott, 22, had the gun stored in a closet of the home in 69th Avenue and told police she awoke at 9:30 a.m. on March 20 to the sound of a gunshot. Prosecutors claim she called out for the four-year-old boy but went back to sleep after hearing no reply. When Scott eventually got up, she found the boy critically injured with a bullet hole in his shoulder. It was revealed that the mother tried to claim she didn't know where the gun came from because she had felony criminal record, according to WBRZ. She then admitted to having the handgun in her bedroom closet, though she does not know how the four-year-old got to it, police said. When police arrived and found the gun, they obtained a warrant to search Scott's home. They recovered a loaded .40 caliber Glock handgun equipped with a 'switch' that could convert the gun into an automatic weapon. A shell casing was found in the boy's bedroom. There is no legal requirement in Louisiana for guns in a home to be secured. Devonte Chambers' great-grandfather was in the house when he heard the fatal shot ring out Lieutenant L'Jean McNeely of the Baton Rouge PD said the child had been playing with the gun Arieana Scott, 22, allegedly went back to sleep after hearing her four-year-old shoot himself The four-year-old boy shot himself inside Scott's Baton Rouge home Police also found a large bag of marijuana in Scott's home that had been packaged in smaller baggies for distribution. Scott said the pot was her boyfriend's personal stash, before admitting she knew it wasn't for individual use. Police charged Scott with improper supervision of a minor by a parent, possession of a firearm by a person convicted of certain felonies, and possession of a machine gun. A heartwarming video captured the moment a cancer patient was reunited with his seven-month-old support puppy, who is also battling cancer. Diego Garcia was preparing lunch at his home in the Buenos Aires coastal town of San Bernardo when Bravo was kidnapped the morning of July 28, according to TN news. Garcia, a police dog trainer, opened the door to allow the Malinois Shepherd back inside and knew someone had snatched him he noticed that the garage door was open. He went house-by-house asking his neighbors if they had seen Bravo and posted photos of him on social media networks. Argentine police dog trainer Diego Garcia was reunited last Friday with his seven-month-old puppy, Bravo, who was kidnapped from his home in San Bernardo, Argentina on July 5. Garcia credits Bravo with providing him support while he undergoes cancer treatment. The Malinois Shepherd is also battling cancer Diego Garcia and his son play with their pet puppy Bravo after they were reunited Early last week, a woman spotted him 16 miles north in the town of Las Toninas and contacted Diego after she saw him being dropped off from a car. The agonizing search came to an end Friday night when another woman found him while driving through Costa Azul - just half a mile away from Garcia's home. 'It was a divine feeling,' Garcia said of the reunion. 'Bravo is my partner, it was exciting for everyone, for my son and for me. My heart returned to my body, you can see it in the dog's happiness.' The puppy suffered several injuries and was taken to a local veterinarian, who scheduled a routine ultrasound. 'Overall, he is fine,' Diego said. Diego Garcia with his seven-month-old Malinois Shepherd, Bravo, who has been part of his family since March Bravo, a Malinois Shepherd, who is battling cancer was take from his the home of his owner - who is battling the disease as well - the morning of July 28 and abandoned on a street in the Argentine province of Buenos Aires. The puppy was located by a woman last Friday Diego Garcia and Bravo are inseparable, according to the police dog trainer, who credits the puppy with helping him in his battle with cancer. The seven-month-old puppy also has a cancer diagnosis Garcia said he and Bravo have been joined by the hip since March when he and his son moved to San Bernardo. 'Bravo sleeps with me, has breakfast, walks with me, goes shopping with me. We are one,' he said. 'I take care of him, and he takes care of me. Bravo changed my life.' The San Bernardo prosecutor's office has opened an investigation. 'There is a complaint for dog theft, there is information that I cannot give you, the prosecutor's office is handling it,' Garcia said. 'The dog never escaped. They took the dog away, I don't know what happened afterwards, why they released it.' A Maine congresswoman who told Americans to wear hand-me-downs to fight climate change has clocked in over 100,000 miles traveling the globe in the lap of luxury. Chellie Pingree, 69, expensed over $100,000 in business class flights, luxury hotels and dining while her and her team clocked in over 130,000 miles around the globe. According to an investigation by the Maine Wire, Pingree, who prides herself on fighting climate change, was responsible for roughly 15.98 metric tons of emissions. The outlet uncovered that since 2016, 21 taxpayer-funded trips by air across the globe have related to her work as a Congresswoman. Despite recently telling Americans to wear hand-me-downs in a social media video, Pingree jetted to locations including Japan, Norway, Italy and Germany. She's no stranger to private jets either, despite once railing against lawmakers who used the luxury and environmentally-unfriendly means of travel. The outlet calculated the figure based on the number of flights, destinations and the emissions of the different planes. In total she racked up 132,255 miles in flights. The outlet uncovered that since 2016, 21 taxpayer-funded trips by air across the globe have related to her work as a Congresswoman. She is seen here in June of this month The outlet added that the total amount emitted would be much higher for when Pingree flew on private jets, with data for such flights not available. In 2017 and in 2023 Pingree traveled to Norway at a total cost of $17,707, both flights were paid for by the Aspen Institute. The institute paid a further $6,458 for travel, lodging and food for her and her daughter Hannah, who is a staffer in the administration of Governor Janet Mills. According to documents, the duo both traveled business class on the round-trip flights. She wrote in her disclosure that: 'This trip will inform Rep. Pingrees continued work on the Appropriations Committee around policy issues related to energy and the environment. 'Norway is at the forefront of innovative energy strategies and meeting there facilitates the participation of Norwegian scholars and experts to provide an in-depth analysis of their energy policies.' According to an itinerary seen by the outlet, speakers included the CEO of a major Norwegian oil and energy company and the Board Chairman of Shell Oil. The trip had been partially covered by the Henry Luce, Democracy Fund, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, and MacArthur foundations. The Democracy Fund is backed by eBay founder Pierre Omidyar, who is known for his progressive politics and has been active with far-left groups in Maine politics. The other trip to the Scandinavian country had been justified necessary due to her role as Chair of the Appropriations Interior & Environment Subcommittee. Her disclosure form said: 'Rep. Pingree is especially interested in sustainable, clean-energy innovations a while [sic] ensuring access.' She traveled on business class for the 7,764 mile round trip. In 2017 and in 2023 Pingree traveled to Norway at a total cost of $17,707, both flights were paid for by the Aspen Institute While staying in Oslo, she stayed at the city's $215 per night Grand Hotel, having cited security as the reason for the expensive hotel. In February 2020, just a month before the world came grinding to halt due to Covid, Pingree traveled around Japan for a week. Her trip, which came to $13,623, was funded by the US Association of Former Members of Congress (FMC). The group paid for her to spend a week traveling across Japan to meet with officials after flying into the country in business class. She also spent time 'appreciating' Japanese culture which included a tea ceremony, trips to temples and a whiskey distillery. Her disclosure form seemed to fess up to the tour of Japan being a personal jolly, saying she 'she is interested in Japan and issues related to U.S.-Japan relations'. During her time in Kyoto she shared at the Hyatt Regency, at a cost of $306 per night While staying in Oslo, she stayed at the city's $215 per night Grand Hotel, seen here, having cited security as the reason for the expensive hotel She visited Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, taking a chartered bus to various different locations. During her time in Kyoto she shared at the Hyatt Regency, at a cost of $306 per night. While in Tokyo, she stayed at the five-star Hotel New Otani, costing $278 per night, according to the documents. Pingree said that both hotels had been selected due to their close proximity to meetings, access to transport and their comfort. While during a trip to Bellagio, Italy, in 2023 she stayed at the $299 per night Bellagio Center. Like her trip to Norway, the trip to Bellagio was paid for by the Apsen Institute and received funding from the Rockefeller Center, her total expense was $7,324. Across all her various trips since 2016, she spent $106,680 on travel, food and lodging, with tabs being picked up by various organizations mentioned. The total emission calculated for her work trips do not account for her total carbon emissions. While in Tokyo, she stayed at the five-star Hotel New Otani, seen here, costing $278 per night, according to the documents Records show she also chartered ground transportation, instead of using transit systems when traveling. Pingree has long been associated with her strong views on climate change, and has frequently pushed for renewable energy subsidies, like solar panels and wind farms. Recently she even shared a video of herself to her socials speaking of her worries of what the world will be like for her children and seven grandchildren. But after sharing the video to her social media on Wednesday afternoon, Pingree was labelled a 'hypocrite' after having previously traveled on a private jet. Pingree was caught on camera disembarking the jet of her then husband and hedge fund manager S. Donald Sussman in 2010. In the footage, Pingree disembarked from the airplane onto a red carpet after the plane touched down at Portland airport in Maine. At the time of the incident, Pingree said that criticism of her use of the corporate jet was politically motivated. She told the Portland Press Herald at the time that she had checked the ethics rules to make sure that taking flights on Sussman's jet was permissible. Pingree was recently labelled a 'hypocrite' after having previously traveled on a private jet, seen here Pingree was caught on camera disembarking the jet of her then husband and hedge fund manager S. Donald Sussman in 2010. The pair are seen here in 2011 Criticism was drawn largely because of testimony she gave in 2006 when she was head of lobbying farm Common Cause, that was critical about legislators use of private aircraft. According to the Bangor Daily News, she said: 'Most Americans never have and never will fly on a chartered jet, much less a fancy corporate jet complete with wet bar and leather couches. 'So when members of Congress constantly fly around on corporate jets and pay only the cost of a commercial ticket, it contributes to the corrosive public perception that members of Congress are more like the fat cats of Wall Street than they are like the rest of us.' Pingree had previously made headlines after she called for less border security and advocated for migrants to be bussed to Maine, claiming there aren't enough locals to fill jobs there. DailyMail.com has approached Pingree for comment. A Texas mom cried in her mugshot after being charged with the murder of her two-month-old son who she left in a car during 100F heat as her mom claims she had post-partem depression at the time. Gabriela Elyzabeth Deras, 22, was arrested Friday and charged in the death of baby Ethan Rosa Deras who was found unresponsive in a vehicle on August 8, 2023. Officers had found the child inside the vehicle that was parked at the Harris Center for Mental Health and Intellectual Developmental Clinic in Houston, the Houston Police Department said on Monday. Investigators later learned that Ethan had been left in the vehicle 'for some time before he was discovered' by family members. The baby boy was dashed to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead. Gabriela Elyzabeth Deras, 22, was arrested on Friday and charged in the death of her son Ethan Rosa Deras who was found unresponsive in a vehicle on August 8, 2023. Ethan Rosa Deras died at two months old after his mom left him inside a car in 100F heat In April, further investigation and an autopsy by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences ruled that Ethan's manner of death was a homicide hyperthermia, leading to Deras' arrest and murder charge, police said. But Deras' mother, Leonela Deras, told KTRK-TV that the family have been left confused and devastated about the cases recent developments, claiming her daughter had schizophrenia, post-partem depression, and could be forgetful. She told the station that her daughter would have never intentionally killed her son, saying: 'She loved her son with her entire soul'. At a probable cause court hearing, an officer revealer officials determined Deras has a mental illness or an intellectual disability, according to a report from the station. A $50,000 bond has been set for Deras, who is prohibited from visiting any child unsupervised and taking any non-prescription medicine, the station added. It comes after a young girl tragically died from extreme heat after she was left 'locked inside the sweltering hot car of her mom's boyfriend while he went to work' in June. Markise Outing, 24, from Florida, was arrested on June 25 and charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child after he allegedly left his girlfriend's six-year-old daughter in a locked car for around three hours. Paramedics dashed to the scene where they found the little girl unconscious, not breathing, and with a body temperature of 107.2 degrees Fahrenheit - believing she may have suffered from a cardiac arrest. In April, further investigation and an autopsy by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences ruled that Ethan's manner of death was a homicide hyperthermia After medics made desperate but unsuccessful attempts to revive the child, they were forced to rush her to a local hospital for further treatment as temperatures in the Bradenton area of Manatee County that day reached 89 degrees. Another baby girl died 'of heat exposure' after her parents took her boating on an Arizona lake during a 120F heatwave last month. Three-month-old Tanna Wroblewski passed away from suspected heat-related complications over the July 4th weekend. She was with her family enjoying a trip out on Lake Havasu, around three hours outside of Phoenix, when she became unresponsive. The region had been baking in scorching temperatures and an extreme heat warning had been issued that day. And a six-month-old baby died in a hot car earlier this month after a teenage neighbor allegedly forgot to drop him off at his father's house and he spent seven hours locked inside. Travis Carter Jr was found unresponsive in the back seat outside the neighbor's house in Cordes Lakes, about 60 miles north of Phoenix, Arizona. Paramedics pronounced him dead when they arrived at the scene and the juvenile neighbor was later arrested and charged with negligent homicide. Eighteen children have now died in hot cars around the US so far this year, plus another four whose cause of death is still to be determined. They include another six-month-old child who died in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on the same day after they parent forgot to drop them off at daycare and went to work, leaving them in the car. Katie Piper faces months of anxiety after being told that the parole hearing for the stalker who ordered a devastating acid attack on the model has been delayed, MailOnline can reveal. Daniel Lynch, a former boyfriend of Piper, had been allocated a private two-day parole hearing on July 23 and 24 and had hoped to be released after spending 15 years in jail. However, the hearing was unexpectedly adjourned on the eve of the appeal and no new date has yet been set for it. In previous complex cases, adjournments can last for many months. It is not known why the hearing was delayed, but the nature of the crime and its high profile means that parole bosses may seek extra information from prison offices who deal with Lynch on a daily basis and psychologists who have assessed him. A spokesperson for the Parole Board said: 'The Parole Board cannot comment on individual cases. A panel may adjourn a parole hearing to ensure a comprehensive risk assessment can take place. Katie Piper (pictured in 2023) was just 24 in March 2008 when the harrowing acid attack happened. She needed 400 operations after being left with severe burns Daniel Lynch (pictured) had hoped to be released after spending 15 years in jail Katie pictured in October 2009 after she was attacked with sulphuric acid 'There are a number of situations where an adjournment may be required, for example more information is required, the prisoner needs more time to complete a course, a witness is not available, or for some other unavoidable reason. The Parole Board does everything it can to avoid these delays. 'Any decision to adjourn an oral hearing must be recorded in writing with reasons, and that record must be provided to the prisoner and/or their legal representative and the Secretary of State no more than 14 days after the date of that decision. 'Parole Board decisions are solely focused on what risk a prisoner could represent to the public if released and whether that risk is manageable in the community. 'The panel will carefully examine a whole range of evidence, including details of the original crime, and any evidence of behaviour change, as well as understand the harm done and impact the crime has had on the victims. 'Parole reviews are undertaken thoroughly and with extreme care. Protecting the public is our number one priority.' Lynch, now 47, wants to be freed from jail, but if the panel rejects this move, he is asking to be sent to an open prison and a precursor to eventual release. The three person parole board can also reject the appeal, which will mean Lynch will stay in prison for a further two-years until he is eligible for another hearing. Lynch was jailed for life with a minimum term of 16 years in May 2009 at London's Wood Green crown court for the rape of Piper and for telling Sylvestre to throw acid on her. After Katie ended their relationship, Lynch bombarded her with phone calls. He was on the phone to her as she walked down a street in Golders Green, north London, when Sylvestre threw sulphuric acid in her face Since the attack Katie has rebuilt her life and was awarded an OBE for charity and burns services in the New Year Honours 2022 Stefan Sylvestre, then 19, who threw the acid, was given a life sentence, with a minimum term of six years, in 2009 and released on licence in 2018. In 2022, he was recalled to prison for breaching his licence conditions, with police issuing an arrest warrant after it was thought he had left the UK. Katie was just 24 in March 2008 when the harrowing attack happened. She needed 400 operations after being left with severe burns. Lynch, who had a previous conviction for pouring boiling water over a man, was said to have become obsessively jealous after briefly dating Piper before the attack. After she ended their relationship, Lynch bombarded her with phone calls. He was on the phone to her as she walked down a street in Golders Green, north London, when Sylvestre threw sulphuric acid in her face. In March, former Met detective Peter Bleksley described Lynch's bid for freedom and Sylvestre being on the run as 'utterly abhorrent'. 'The victim in this case has been through an utterly horrific ordeal. With one defendant having fled the country and the other out potentially in weeks, I imagine she feels the system has badly let her down. 'I can fully understand why she would think like that. It's appalling. It is utterly abhorrent.' In June last year, the Loose Women star said Lynch's release was on her mind. She said: 'I'm 40 this year. Am I going to die in the next ten years? I don't actually know. 'The people that attacked me will be released. Are they going to kill me? I'm not sure.' Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz faces new scrutiny on how he handled the George Floyd riots, as Vice President Kamala Harris has selected him as her running mate for the 2024 election. Protests of George Floyd's death at the hands of Minneapolis police in May 2020 soon escalated into violence, as rioters burned and looted businesses in the Twin Cities. Walz resisted sending in the National Guard to address the escalating violence in the city for three days but ultimately chose to do so after receiving heavy criticism from residents for allowing the city to burn after rioters overwhelmed the state and local police force. At the time, Walz argued that calling up the National Guard to enforce order would only incite further rioting, and suggested that protesters needed the space to express their outrage. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (L) greets Vice President Kamala Harris as she arrives at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport 'I want to just be clear there's philosophically an argument to be made that an armed presence on the ground in the midst of where we just had a police killing is seen as a catalyst,' he said during a press conference. After the third night of rioting, where a police precinct was set on fire, Walz admitted they had failed to properly respond to the violence. 'That is an abject failure that cannot happen,' he said, recalling a phone call he received from a local lawmaker about the lack of firefighters and police while frightened residents were locked in their homes. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis immediately condemned Harris' pick of Walz as a sign of the 'most left-wing ticket' in history. Minnesota was ground zero for the Black Lives Matter riots of 2020. Harris egged it on and Walz sat by and let Minneapolis burn, DeSantis posted on social media. A protester reacts standing in front of a burning building set on fire during a demonstration in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on May 29, 2020 Minnesota Governor Tim Walz speaks to the press about George Floyd's death Other Minnesota Republicans agreed. 'He displayed a remarkable lack of leadership in dealing with the riot that was very destructive and the aftermath of which is still affecting the quality of life and the business climate in Minneapolis,' Minnesota Republican Party Chair David Hann told Fox News on Wednesday. Walz tried to dismiss the violence as the product of drug cartels, white supremacists, and outside groups, claiming that up to 80 percent of rioters were from out of state. Arrest records, however, revealed that most of the rooters who were arrested were, in fact, from Minnesota. Minnesota Republicans also singled out Walz for mishandling coronavirus funds that sent $250 million to a nonprofit group Feeding Our Future, ignoring warning signs that the organization was mishandling the funds. The organization was using the funds for luxury cars, jewelry, travel and property, according to reports, while only using a small portion of the money from the federal government for feeding children. At the time, Republicans blamed Walz for failing basic oversight and continuing to allow the non-profit to receive funds. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz arrives to speak at a press conference Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks at a Biden-Harris campaign event criticizing former President Donald Trump The Minnesota Department of Education flagged serious concerns about the group in 2018, but failed to address them, and gave even more funding to the organization. That earned him even more criticism from Republicans. 'If nothing changes, if nothing changes. Either Gov. Walz holds his appointed commissioners and other staff accountable and we stop the waste and fraud or this is going to continue,' said Republican Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson during a news conference reacting to the scandal. Far-right mobs are threatening to unleash further disorder across Britain tomorrow - with as many as 38 areas including immigration centres and lawyers' homes making up a 'target list'. Violent riots have exploded across several cities including Manchester, Liverpool, Plymouth and Birmingham following the Southport knife rampage which claimed the lives of three young girls and left many others injured. False speculation online that the teenage suspect was an asylum seeker who had arrived in the UK on a boat has fuelled the unrest which started outside a mosque in Southport and has since spread across the UK. The misinformation is believed to have originated from a Russian-linked fake news website. Right-wing groups have organised dozens of protests from Liverpool to Hull and Middlesbrough to Plymouth - with many filled with anti-immigrant rhetoric. Riots have seen hotels housing migrants set on fire and police attacked with bricks or glass bottles. A supposed 'target list' of 38 areas where further riots are planned for Wednesday has leaked on social media. And a police source told The Mirror today it was treating the list as a 'credible threat'. Anti-migration protesters attempt to enter the Holiday Inn Express Hotel which is housing asylum seekers on August 4 As many as 38 areas including immigration centres and lawyers' homes have made up a 'target list' created by far-right mobs 'It's being watched closely and we are ready to respond,' the source said. 'We have got thousands of extra officers and where there's credible, specific intelligence, officers will be put in place and will be ready to respond immediately.' They added: 'Wednesday is going to be a busy day. We are assessing what is credible and what isn't but we have a lot more resources stood-up now than we did at the weekend. 'Some is planned but also a lot is sporadic in terms of local people seeing stuff online and turning up out of the blue. It's quite a nuanced picture.' A message on encrypted platform Telegram shows that 38 towns and cities could be braced for more violence. Five of the organisations on the list told the Financial Times they were planning to shut tomorrow and urged employees to work from home. The list includes locations such as Aldershot, Canterbury, Bedford, Birmingham and Derby. The list, which was reposted on social media, came with a threatening caption above it which reads: 'THEY WON'T STOP COMING UNTIL YOU TELL THEM... 'NO MORE IMMIGRATION. 8PM. MASK UP.' It added: 'SPREAD THIS AS FAR AND WIDE AS YOU CAN.' Serious violence and rioting by far-right protesters continues in side streets into the evening A member of the community offers snacks to police officers on the front line in Middlesbrough Residents offer food and snacks to police on the front line in Middlesbrough this evening Protesters try to cram into the migrant hotel through a damaged fire exit in Rotherham A man looks out of The Holiday Inn hotel in Rotherham as counter demonstrators stand outside with signs saying 'refugees welcome' A bin on fire outside the Holiday Inn Migrant hotel in Rotherham Justice secretary Shabana Mahmood said anyone wearing a mask to a riot would be prosecuted. 'It doesn't matter who you are or what you're protesting if you turn up in a mask, with a weapon, intent on causing disorder, you will face the full force of the law,' she wrote on X. Top police officers have confirmed 6,000 riot cops are braced to deal with potential trouble across the country on Wednesday. Counter-terror officers and detectives from regional crime units are also involved in targeting far right ringleaders of the chaos and violence which has swept Britain. Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to take 'all necessary action' to end the far-right riots. The Prime Minister told Cabinet today that 'people across the country want their streets to be safe and to feel safe in their communities, and we will take all necessary action to bring the disorder to an end'. Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi is trying to downplay Vice President Kamala Harris's newly announced running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz's extreme liberal record. Pelosi had reportedly been working behind the scenes to try and get Walz, who served in Congress from 2006-2019 and whom she is 'fond of,' onto Harris' ticket. And her efforts paid off after Harris announced she was selecting the governor to join her as her running mate as she aims for the presidency in November. But now, Pelosi is offering a bizarre explanation about her former colleague's well-known progressive record as he faces a tough battle to win over middle-of-the-road Americans. Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi defended her former House colleague Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Vice President Kamala harris's running mate pick, as a moderate Tuesday morning just before he was selected for the VP job. It has been reported Pelosi was 'fond' of Walz getting the powerful position Pelosi snapped back at MSNBC host Joe Scarborough - a Democrat and former House member - when he suggested Walz is 'progressive.' 'Tim Walz is wonderful. He served in the House,' Pelosi said. 'To characterize him as left is so unreal. He's right down the middle.' 'He's a Heartland of America Democrat, and as chair of our Veterans Affairs Committee made tremendous gains for our veterans,' she continued. Republicans, meanwhile, were quick to attack Walz on his record, particularly his oversight of Minneapolis, the epicenter of the 2020 George Floyd riots and destruction. 'Harris-Walz: most left-wing ticket in American history,' Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis posted on X Tuesday. 'Minnesota was ground zero for the BLM riots of 2020. Harris egged it on and Walz sat by and let Minneapolis burn.' Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., another former colleague of Walz called him the 'most liberal 'nominee' to ever appear on a presidential ballot.' He 'has now chosen a progressive running mate who has voiced support for socialism, supports sanctuary cities, and wants to give driver's licenses to the millions of illegal aliens Kamala Harris has allowed into our country.' 'No amount of spin from the campaign or the media can distract from the objective facts and the disastrous records of Harris and Walz,' the Republican continued. There are reports Biden is angry at Pelosi for her role in his ouster. Pelosi was working behind-the-scenes to try and calm panicked Democrats after Biden's first debate performance, where he stared into space and struggled to answer questions Pelosi was reportedly critical to Joe Biden's campaign cancellation which prompted Vice President Kamala Harris's rise to the top of the party's ticket. Harris was largely seen as more electable by Capitol Hill Democrats, allegedly prompting Pelosi to speak frankly with Biden about his dwindling party support The current and former speakers of the House could not paint a more divergent picture of Walz, indicating the pair's differing objectives. Johnson wants to remind voters of Walz 'progressive' record. And Pelosi will shine Walz in a moderate light to broaden the appeal of the Democratic ticket to moderate voters. But this is not her first maneuver in the 2024 race. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Harris's pick for running mate, oversaw Minnesota during the George Floyd riots of 2020 Reports indicate that Pelosi played a critical role in relaying messages from worried Capitol Hill Democrats to the White House and Biden's allies ahead of his withdrawal. Eventually the news reaching Biden and his allies was so dire that he decided to drop his reelection bid, to the celebration of Pelosi and her fellow Democrats. Publicly, however, she always said she trusted Biden would make the right decision. There are also reports Biden is angry at her for her role in his ouster. But since his dropping out, Pelosi has not spoken to the president, she revealed on CNN Monday. Nancy Pelosi said 'you'd have to ask' Joe Biden about the state of their relationship after the former speaker of the house admitted she hasn't spoken to him since he ended his re-election campaign She was asked by Dana Bash: 'Have you spoken to President Biden since he dropped out?' 'No,' the 84-year-old Pelosi - whose official title is now 'Speaker Emerita' after stepping down as speaker in 2023 - responded. Bash then questioned: 'Is everything ok with your relationship?' And then the veteran Democrat leader gave a surprising answer. 'You'd have to ask him,' Pelosi she said. X, the social media company previously known as Twitter, is reportedly leaving San Francisco and relocating employees to other Bay Area cities. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle Elon Musks X, formerly Twitter, is reportedly exiting its longtime San Francisco headquarters in the latest blow to the Mid-Market neighborhood. The social media company is closing the office at 1355 Market St. over the next few weeks, according to a memo by CEO Linda Yaccarino reported by the New York Times. It will move employees to an office in San Jose and also open an engineering office in Palo Alto that it will share with Musks xAI startup, according to the Times. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The impending move provides clarity around the future and an apparent ending for one of San Franciscos most prominent tech companies, which has been at the epicenter of major events like this years presidential election and the Olympics. X, which no longer has a media relations department, didnt respond to a request for comment. This is an important decision that impacts many of you, but it is the right one for our company in the long term, Yaccarino wrote in the memo, according to the Times. The partially disassembled Twitter sign is seen on the headquarters of X in San Francisco in 2023. Michaela Vatcheva/Special to the Chronicle Last month, the Chronicle reported that the company sought to sublease most of its San Francisco office space. Days later, Musk said he would move X and SpaceXs headquarters to Texas, but he didnt provide details on whether offices would remain in California. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The reported plans to maintain X offices in Silicon Valley mirror Musks Tesla headquarters move to Austin. Though the electric carmaker has a huge Texas factory, it maintains an engineering second headquarters in Palo Alto and a major plant in Fremont. Similarly, Chevron said last week that it was moving its headquarters from San Ramon to Houston but would keep its California facilities. Keeping an X hub in the Bay Area would enable Musk to tap into the countrys largest region for tech talent, particularly in the hot artificial intelligence sector. Its unclear when X will open an Austin office and how many employees will move over. X leased its Mid-Market headquarters, a former historic furniture mart, in 2011. Its been cutting office space since the pandemic led to widespread remote work, followed by Musks acquisition and mass layoffs. The building had been the scene of numerous controversies since Musks takeover, including clashes with the city over permits for bedrooms and a temporary unapproved X rooftop sign that was taken down. Xs landlord also sued it over alleged unpaid rent, but the landlord dismissed the case in March. With Xs planned departure, Mid-Market area is set to lose another big tech name, following the exits of Uber, Reddit and Block, formerly Square. At the same time, thousands of city, state and federal workers in the area are partially remote, adding to challenges in the area. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The sharp fall in office occupancy has crushed Mid-Market businesses, with sales tax revenue on some blocks crashing by 80% between 2019 and 2023, according to city data. The city of San Francisco recently leased part of 1455 Market St., the former headquarters of both Uber and Block, at a discount compared with pre-pandemic rates. Real estate brokers have said weaker demand could lead to a more diverse base of tenants taking advantage of discounts. The areas struggles resemble the dire economic situation following the 2009 recession, which led to supervisors approving a controversial Mid-Market payroll tax break in 2011 that drew Twitter to the area, as well as tech firms like Dolby and Zendesk. The tax break expired in 2019 and boosted office occupancy, but it had a mixed impact on street conditions and local businesses, a Chronicle investigation found. Remote work has now reversed many of those economic gains. Local groups are hoping to revive Mid-Market by pivoting to arts and culture events, including a monthly block party A Mississippi hospice patient and his wife renewed their wedding vows in a heartwarming ceremony thanks to the help of a nurse. Buddy and Sonja Myers celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary a year early on Saturday during an elaborate ceremony at Life Church in Laurel. ComfortCare Hospice Raven Anderson has been taking care of 76-year-old Buddy after he was diagnosed with vocal cord cancer eight months ago and learned Sonja hoped to walk down the aisle to her husband one more time. Anderson made Sonja's dream came true on Saturday when she was able to renew her vows in a beautiful lace wedding gown surrounded by friends and family while medical teams helped bed-bound Buddy make it on stage. 'They made something happen that I never thought would happen and I cannot tell them how much I appreciate everything they have done,' Sonja told WDAM. Buddy and Sonja Myers celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary a year early on Saturday during an elaborate ceremony at Life Church Buddy (right), 76, was diagnosed with vocal cord cancer eight months ago and Sonja dreamed of walking down the aisle to her husband one more time 'I thought then I loved her with all my heart, but oh no, I love her more than I have ever loved anybody in all my life,' said Buddy. Anderson rallied the troops to help make the Myers ceremony happen at Life Church - the church where the had been leading Bible study classes and have been active members for the past 19 years according to The Laurel Leader Call. 'After I got to talking with the family, it came to me that (Sonja) wanted to walk down an aisle next year, at their 25th (anniversary) and so, I started contemplating for a little while and thinking about it and was like, "We could make that happen a little early,"' she said. 'Hospice is a tough situation for everybody and theres a lot of hard feelings and if we can bring happiness and joy to somebody, thats why we do it.' Local business and community members donated goods and services to the couple including Sonja's wedding dress, their cake, flowers, decor, photography and transportation for Buddy. Local business and community members donated goods and services to the couple including Sonja's wedding dress ComfortCare Hospice Raven Anderson helped make the Myer's dream come true by rallying everyone together to organize the wedding Buddy cried as his beaming bride walked down the aisle to the classic love song 'Unchained Melody.' 'This celebration is the ultimate love story of two individuals who were given a second chance to find love again,' said Buddy's brother Bill who officiated the ceremony. 'They have been blessed together in a marriage of love, joy, and happiness. They have also been joint ministers serving God while setting a beautiful example for all married couples, young and old, of what a true marriage centered around God and built on unconditional love is all about. 'They are an inspiration to everyone they know. Im honored to call them family.' With just hours to go until Kamala Harris was due to introduce her running mate to the world, her staff had no idea who she was going to pick. Her team prepared campaign signs that paired her name with all her top contenders to make sure they were covered when she made up her mind. On Tuesday morning she picked up the phone to President Joe Biden as she raced against time to make one of the most critical decisions of her political career. In the end - and after an intense vetting process with Democratic kingmakers - she went with the 'cuddly option'. The vice president waited until the very last minute to pick the progressive Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate to take on Donald Trump and J.D. Vance in the November general election. Kamala Harris waited until the last minute to name her VP pick An insider told DailyMail.com she wanted 'compatibility' on the Democratic ticket and a 'partner' with a low risk of outshining her. The 60-year-old father-of-two Walz was the comfortable choice as a politician with a strong record in Republican areas and the backing of former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was long considered to be the favorite in the running mate race, but concerns over his personal ambition and support of Israel may have tipped the scales against him. Naming Walz as the running mate has caused both celebration and concern within the Democrats, and Republicans have said the opposition now has the most 'left-wing ticket' in history. The former teacher is well-liked and a proven winner in Republican areas. His description of Trump and Vance as 'just weird' went viral and sparked a new Democrat line of attack in the campaign. But some questioned why Harris didn't go with the other white male she was considering: Shapiro and his state's 19 electoral votes. She consulted a variety of party heavy weights as part of her decision making process: former President Barack Obama, campaign chair Jen OMalley Dillon, and former Attorney General Eric Holder, who managed the vetting process. But her pick was politically smart too. Walz is strong where she is weak. He is a blue-collar figure with rural experience, which is a sharp contrast to Harris, the first black and South Asian vice president who is from liberal San Francisco. And while Harris brings in the youth vote and black voters, Walz appeals to white working class and older voters. He also has military experience from his time in the National Guard and, while he was in Congress, he represented a district that Donald Trump carried in the presidential elections. 'Picking a Rural Democrat who used to represent a Red district with a progressive, populist record is a great way to balance a ticket with a nominee from Oakland, California,' said Democratic strategist Dan Pfieffer on X. Harris was impressed with his 'strong record supporting middle class families, his appeal to key Midwest states - including winning a House seat in a Trump district,' a source familiar said. When she called him - via video chat - to offer him the position, she told him that they were the 'underdogs,' a line she has used repeatedly on the campaign trail. And one strategist described Walz as the 'cuddly choice.' 'She went for maybe a little more of a cuddly choice - like maybe somebody who everybody feels is going to make everybody feel safe,' Jamal Simmons, Harris' former communications director, said on CNN. 'It looks like the flip side of the Biden-Harris choice, right? Theyre about the same age, but governor - he's a little grayer he's got a little bit more of that let mid-western appeal.' Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is not well-known throughout the state, polls show Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro was also in the running to be the VP nominee But there may have been other factors in her decision: mainly concerns that Shapiro, who has garnered comparisons to Obama on the stump, would outshine her. The first maximum of a VP running mate is do no harm. Walz appears to meet that. But Shapiro is a different story. While he may have delivered Pennsylvania - a state both sides consider critical to a victory in November - he also had his critics. Those include one of his home state senators: John Fetterman. Fetterman relayed to Harris' campaign his concerns that Shapiro was focused on his own personal ambitions above all else. Shapiro allies alleged, however, that the criticism against the governor is anti-Semitic. Shapiro is Jewish. He also has been one of the most vocal critics of the pro-Palestinian protests that have popped up in the U.S. after the October 7th attacks on Israel. His criticism led some liberals to warn against his inclusion on the ticket. Many Democrats have expressed concern about the Biden administration's staunch support for Israel. Walz, in contrast, has expressed support for Israel but has pushed for more aid to the Palestinians. He also supposed a cease-fire in Gaza and a two-state solution. All agree the pick demonstrates how Harris makes decisions with Republicans arguing it showed her as a bad decision maker and Democrats calling it a wise choice. There is some relief among Republicans that Harris didnt pick Shapiro with many of Trumps supporters breathing a sigh of relief that the state is still in play. Then they quickly starting attacking Walz, with some saying Harris picked the Bernie Sanders of Democrats, painting the Minnesota governor as an unabashed liberal. And they may be on to something. According to a Marist poll released Tuesday, Walz has extremely low national name recognition. A whopping 71% of Americans say they have 'not heard' of him and have no opinion on him. J.D. Vance and Donald Trump are reported to be relieved Harris picked Walz over Shapiro But Walz also had some big name Democrats in his corner, particularly former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Pelosi played a role in pressuring Biden to exit the Democratic race. She is known to be supportive of her former House members and she was fond of Walz when he was in Congress. 'Tim Walz is wonderful. She had many good choices. Tim Walz I know very well. He served in the House. To characterize him as left is so unreal. It's just not -- he's right down the middle. He's a heartland of America Democrat,' Pelosi told Morning Joe. Vladimir Putin has desperately sent troops to repel hundreds of soldiers, tanks and armoured vehicles that have stormed across Russia's border in what Moscow claimed was a Ukrainian attack. Moscow's defence ministry said it has rushed troops and aviation units to the southwestern region after Ukrainian units allegedly tried to attack Russian positions just inside the border, according to Russian officials. 'Border defence troops, together with military units of the FSB border force, are repelling attacks and inflicting fire damage on the enemy,' the defence ministry said in a statement Tuesday. Russia claims Ukraine launched the foray early this morning with as many as 300 troops, 11 tanks and more than 20 armoured combat vehicles, claiming to have struck back with airstrikes. Intense footage appeared to show explosions hitting the ground from a driver's window some eight miles inside the Russian border today. Another clip showed a fighter jet tearing through the sky towards black smoke billowing up ahead. The plumes appeared to be coming from the shell of a burnt out lorry in the road. Ukraine launched the incursion across the Russian border around 5am GMT An explosion as seen from a driver's window in the Kursk region, some 8 miles inside Russia Damage in the town of Sudzha on August 6 following Ukrainian shelling, according to Smirnov The Russian governor of the Kursk region said three people had been killed by Ukrainian forces throughout the day - a woman in the attempted border incursion and two people whose vehicles were hit in separate drone attacks. 'The situation in the border area remains difficult, but our defenders are successfully working to destroy the enemy,' Alexei Smirnov added. In a series of updates on social media, Smirnov said two Russian civilians had been killed, one by shelling and the other by a drone, and 18 others were wounded. The defence ministry said the attack was focused on the settlements of Nikolaevo-Darino and Oleshnya - just across from Ukraine's northeastern Sumy region. The Russian reports could not be independently verified. Disinformation and propaganda have played a central role in the war, now in its third year. Responsibility for previous incursions, into Russia's Belgorod and Bryansk regions, have been claimed by two murky groups: the Russian Volunteer Corps and the Freedom of Russia Legion. Ukraine did not comment on the reports but the head of the Sumy region military administration, Oleksiy Drozdenko, told residents to pay attention to air raid alerts. Ukrainian forces said there was 'cynical shelling' of border settlements in the Sumy and neighbouring Chernigiv regions. Ukraine's general staff, in a regular update on Tuesday, also reported Russian strikes on border villages but did not mention any Ukrainian offensive operation. A source in the Ukrainian National Defence Council, Andrii Kovalenko, said: 'Russian war correspondents are lying about the controllability of the situation in the Kursk region. 'Russia does not control the border.' Hours after a Russian regional governor said the attackers had been pushed back, the Russian defence ministry issued a statement saying that fighting was still going on. 'Troops covering the state border, together with units of the border troops of the FSB (security service) of Russia, are repelling attacks and inflicting fire on the enemy in the area of the state border and on (Ukrainian) reserves in the Sumy region,' the statement said. It said Russia was using warplanes to strike Ukrainian armoured vehicles, and had moved its own reserves into the area of the fighting. Russian authorities also said today that Ukrainian 'saboteurs' had attempted a landing by sea on the Russian-held Tendra Spit in southern Ukraine. 'According to preliminary information, 12 high-speed craft were used - eight of them with the saboteurs and four with fire support,' Moscow-appointed governor Vladimir Saldo said on social media. 'Russian marines opened fire as the boats were approaching the Tendra Spit. Three boats were destroyed with their crews and sank. The others turned back,' Saldo said. Smoke billows on the Kursk border region as Russia claimed Ukraine had launched an assault Damage to buildings allegedly caused during a Ukrainian attack over the border on Tuesday Combatants from Ukraine have made several brief incursions into Russia since the beginning of the conflict, including with units of Russians fighting in support of Kyiv - the Russian Volunteer Corps and the Freedom of Russia Legion. Russia has pushed back against the attacks and has sometimes needed to deploy artillery and aviation. Ukraine's main military effort is focused on fighting back Russian forces who control nearly a fifth of its territory after almost two-and-a-half years of war and have made a series of gradual gains in the past six months. Ukrainian strikes inside Russia's own territory have mostly involved shelling of border regions and drone attacks on targets such as oil refineries and fuel depots. A Russian missile attack on the city of Kharkiv in northeastern Ukraine damaged a medical clinic and injured at least five people on Tuesday, the governor of the Kharkiv region said. It was one of the most remarkable animal rescues in Scotland. Two dozen puppies, many with life threatening diseases, were found crying and cowering inside filthy boxes at a back of a lorry at Cairnryan ferry port earlier this year. But for once the story has a fairytale ending, for every single one of the 24 cockapoo and cavapoo pups are now in their forever homes just six months after the potentially heartbreaking discovery. Animal welfare charity Scottish SPCA was called to the port in January by a member of the public who heard the puppies whimpering underneath a truck. They had been hidden inside cardboard boxes in dire conditions without food or water. All 24 puppies rescued in Cairnryan now have families to call their own Piper's heart condition had gone undetected because of neglect and she needed an emergency surgery after the rescue The pups were taken to one of the charitys rescue and rehoming centres for immediate veterinary care and were found to be suffering from severe ear mites plus checked for other potential diseases and infections. They were so poorly with gastrointestinal illnesses because of their unsanitary living conditions the Scottish SPCA started an online fundraiser to care for them with generous public donating around 23,000 in just over two days. The cash meant all the puppies survived, including Piper who had been born with a heart murmur. Through neglect, her condition had gone undetected, but she was quickly transferred to vets CrumPets in Glasgow who carried out a heart-saving operation on the pup for free. She is now living her best life with a new family in Linlithgow, West Lothian. Mother-of-three, Jemma Chessar, who adopted Piper now renamed Skye said: Our whole family adore her she has made our home complete. We love going on beach walks and teaching Skye new tricks. She loves every minute of her life. Fellow pup Indie, who was named after the brave action hero Indiana Jones, is also flourishing in her new home. New owner Sharon Davison said: Indie has bounced in to our lives and stole our hearts. The Chessar family with Piper - now renamed Skye - adore the pup My husband and I were very fortunate to be given the opportunity to adopt Indie and he came home with us in February. He has settled in so well and is such a lovely natured little furball. He loves his snuggles and is very sociable with both humans and other four-legged friends. He is massively spoilt and showered in love and kisses. The Scottish SPCAs fostering and rehoming lead, Anna ODonnell, said puppy smuggling was all too common and added: While this is a fantastic result for the Cairnryan puppies and the charity as a whole, this sadly isnt an isolated incident. While these pups have found their forever homes, there are many more animals in the Scottish SPCAs care who are looking for theirs. Wed urge people thinking of rehoming an animal to have an open mind about the kind of pet you could give a home to. She added that by talking to the charity, they can help everyone find the perfect match and an animal in need its forever home. Sir Keir Starmer will chair another emergency Cobra meeting this evening over Britain's week-long riots crisis. The PM will meet with top ministers and police chiefs for the second time in two days amid the violent scenes in towns and cities across the country. He earlier vowed to 'take all necessary action' to end the chaos as Cabinet ministers stepped up their efforts to combat the disorder. Sir Keir met with his senior team in Downing Street as they discussed moves to deploy a 'standing army' of 6,000 specialist police to trouble hotspots. The Government is also making an extra 500 prison places available as they look to swiftly bring far-right thugs to justice over the widespread outbreak of violence. Sir Keir told a Cabinet meeting that the disorder in the wake of the Southport stabbing attack was 'not protest' and needed to be treated as 'criminal activity'. 'We need to be calling it out for what it is,' the PM told his Government's most senior figures, as he condemned the shocking scenes. Sir Keir Starmer today vowed to 'take all necessary action' to end Britain's riots crisis as Cabinet ministers stepped up their efforts to combat the week-long chaos. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, pictured arriving for today's Cabinet meeting, condemned the scenes of thuggery at a library, mosques, supermarkets and hotels housing asylum seekers Attorney General Richard Hermer (left) updated on progress in charging offenders, while Technology Secretary Peter Kyle spoke about his meetings with social media bosses Rioters attack police at a Holiday Inn Express hotel accommodating asylum seekers in Rotherham Sir Keir said: 'When I went to Southport I spoke to police who described what it was like to attend the mass stabbing of little girls and then to be back on duty the next day in riot gear, having bricks thrown at them. 'This is something no one would have ever wanted to see and we need to be calling it out for what it is.It is not protest. It is violent disorder and needs to be treated as such, as criminal activity. '99.9 per cent of people across the country want their streets to be safe and to feel safe in their communities and we will take all necessary action to bring the disorder to an end.' A Downing Street readout of today's Cabinet reading also revealed how Sir Keir told his top ministers that those involved in the riots 'will feel the full force of the law'. He also promised they would be subject to 'swift justice' and said special duty public order officers are ready to be deployed across the country to tackle any emerging trouble. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned the scenes of crime and thuggery at Liverpool Children's Library, mosques, supermarkets and hotels housing asylum seekers. She also spoke about the progress of a new National Violent Disorder Programme to bring together the best policing capabilities from across the country to share intelligence on the activity of violent groups. Attorney General Richard Hermer provided an update on the progress by the Crown Prosecution Service in charging offenders and said he looked towards potential court hearings at the end of the week. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle told fellow Cabinet ministers about his recent meetings with social media bosses and said he had made clear their responsibility to stop the spread of hateful disinformation and incitement. Police officers with dogs intervene during clashes at Guildhall Square in Plymouth yesterday Justice minister Heidi Alexander said 567 additional prison spaces would soon come into use Earlier, justice minister Heidi Alexander said 567 additional prison spaces would soon come into use. 'We will make sure that anyone who is given a custodial sentence as a result of the riots and disorder, there will be a prison place waiting for them,' she told BBC Radio 4's Today programme. Extra cells at HMP Stocken, Rutland, will be in use from 'next week', Ms Alexander said, with plans also in place to use space at Cookham Wood Young Offender Institution in Kent for adult prisoners. She also revealed more detail about the planned 'standing army' of police officers Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced yesterday afternoon. Ms Alexander told Times Radio: 'These are police officers who have had specialist training in dealing with public order offences. 'We had 4,000 available at the weekend. There will be another 2,000 available this week. It also means that police officers are able to be deployed in parts of the country where they are needed most.' Elsewhere, she said courts 'could possibly' begin sitting 'through the evening, the night, at weekends' in order to swiftly prosecute rioters. The additional courts protocol, which was created in the aftermath of the 2011 riots, could be invoked in areas where police and prosecuting chiefs feel it is needed, the minister told LBC. The courts are now 'willing to consider any of those requests', according to Ms Alexander. During her round of TV and radio interviews, Ms Alexander warned thugs taking part in the riots they could face prison sentences of up to 10 years. She told ITV's Good Morning Britain: 'Decisions about sentencing when these cases come to the courts will be for judges. 'But anyone watching our television screens and seeing the images that you and I have seen of this violent disorder, the racist attacks, the dangerous extremism, will realise that in all likelihood there are some very serious offences that have been committed. 'It will be for the Crown Prosecution Service to determine what charges are brought against individuals, evidence will need to be collated so that there are strong cases going before the courts and then it will be judges to determine those sentences. 'But whether it is rioting, violent disorder, incitement to racial hatred, criminal damage, these carry very significant maximum sentences.' Pressed on how long those sentences could be, she added: 'Ten years, seven years, five years for some of the offences that I've just spoken about.' The maximum jail term for rioting is ten years. A recent debate sparked by a party planning guide has reignited a fiery discussion about the age-old question: Is it rude to ask guests to remove their shoes before entering your home? Last week, The New York Times published a 'Guide to Partying (Without Regrets),' which detailed the dos and don'ts of hosting and guest etiquette. When it came to spilling the deets on how to become the hostess with the mostess, event planner Rebecca Gardner's opinion on the 'shoe or no shoe' debate broke the internet. 'Please don't ask people to take off their shoes when entering your apartment. It's rude,' said Gardner. Chef Romilly Newman backed up Gardner's hot take: 'When you invite people into your home, you need to let go. You can't be like, 'You can't touch this' and 'You have to take your shoes off' and 'If you spill something, you are in trouble.' Hosting is letting your guests enjoy themselves.' Taking your shoes off can also stop the spread of bacteria inside someone's home Users on the side of 'pro-shoes off' argued that removing shoes is a basic hygiene measure, a sign of respect for the homeowner, and a common practice in many cultures, particularly Asian ones Tom Nichols, a staff writer for The Atlantic, tweeted this week that it's unreasonable for hosts to expect guests to remove their shoes. 'If you throw a party, expect that human beings are going to wear shoes. Clean your floors the next day,' he said. Users on the side of 'pro-shoes off' argued that removing shoes is a basic hygiene measure, a sign of respect for the homeowner, and a common practice in many cultures, particularly Asian ones. 'When you find out who doesn't have Asian friends,' Indian American comic Hari Kondabolu tweeted, featuring a picture of Gardner's Times entry. 'My Ghanaian mom would like to have a word,' an X user posted. Jose Santos Ardivilla, a Filipino student pursuing a doctorate as a Fulbright scholar, told HuffPost that taking your shoes off before entering the home is viewed as a sign of respect in his culture. 'Culturally, taking your shoes off shows a sense of deference to other people's homes, which many of us consider as places for rest and safety,' said Ardivilla. 'It's a simple symbol of consideration for the homeowners.' But take the cultural aspect out of the gesture, taking your shoes off can also stop the spread of bacteria. Sara Jane Ho, an etiquette expert and author of the new book 'Mind Your Manners,' said that although she enjoyed the Times' party guide, she will continue to take her shoes off before entering another person's home. But take the cultural aspect out of the gesture, taking your shoes off can also stop the spread of bacteria, said Sara Ho, an etiquette expert and author of the new book 'Mind Your Manners.' A recent debate sparked by a party planning guide has reignited a fiery discussion about the age-old question: Is it rude to ask guests to remove their shoes before entering your home? Opponents believe that asking guests to remove their shoes is an unreasonable request that infringes on personal comfort and is unnecessary in clean environments 'For as long as I can remember, I've never worn shoes in the house. It's extremely hygienic,' she said. 'Let's say you go to a restaurant, you use the restroom, you go grocery shopping or you go to the market. You're tracking all sorts of bacteria and germs and uncleanliness from the streets.' Research from Manhattan's Upper East Side in 2023 uncovered high concentrations of bacteria, such as E. coli, often found on shoes and subsequently tracked indoors. Ho explained that the custom of removing shoes indoors in Asia is rooted in practical concerns. Poll Is it rude to ask guests to take off their shoes before entering your home? Yes No Is it rude to ask guests to take off their shoes before entering your home? Yes 221 votes No 386 votes Now share your opinion Wet markets, common in many Asian countries, are often unclean environments, and traditional dining practices involving low tables and floor seating further reinforced the habit. 'In China, it was only later when northern invaders came and conquered parts of the country that people began eating at higher tables,' she said. 'But keeping your shoes on in public areas while taking them inside is still a sign of respect in a private area.' Iranian American novelist Porochista Khakpour, who grew up in a California suburb with a predominantly Asian American population, said the only exception to the 'no shoes indoors' rule was if a person was disabled or suffered from an illness that would make it harder for them to get around. Research from Manhattan's Upper East Side in 2023 uncovered high concentrations of bacteria, such as E. coli, often found on shoes and subsequently tracked indoors And going shoeless doesn't mean barefoot for some hosts. To accommodate guests who remove their shoes, many Asian homes offer slippers as an alternative to going barefoot Tsai-Ni Ku, a first-generation Taiwanese American PR executive, grew up navigating cultural differences between South Africa and Boston. In both places, her mother often found herself explaining the custom of removing shoes indoors. 'Growing up, my mom would always ask kindly, but there were some guests of different cultures that were unaware of the nuances involved,' Ku told HuffPost. 'Many Asian Americans are taught to change into 'house clothes' or pajamas as soon as you get home since these are clean, indoor clothes.' And going shoeless doesn't mean barefoot for some hosts. To accommodate guests who remove their shoes, many Asian homes offer slippers as an alternative to going barefoot. 'In my home, we don't expect our guests to be barefoot either!' Ku said. An eight-year-old Missouri girl died from multiple health complications as she was flying with her family on vacation. Elementary schooler Sydney Weston was on her way to Chicago with her family when she became ill and then unresponsive after taking off from Joplin, Missouri, on a SkyWest flight in June. The flight was diverted to Peoria, Illinois, about 45 minutes after take off and forced to make an emergency landing. Sydney was then declared dead at the hospital, with the medical examiner now saying it was due to chronic primary adrenalitis - a chronic condition in which your adrenal glands don't produce enough of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone. Sydney Weston was on her way to Chicago with her family when she became ill and then unresponsive after taking off from Joplin, Missouri, on a SkyWest flight in June She also had multiple infections which included strep and enterovirus as well as duodenitis- an inflammation in the small intestine - and thyroiditis, an inflammation of the thyroid grand. Peoria County Coroner Jamie Harwood said the conditions suggest an underlying autoimmune disorder, as reported by 25News Now. Sydney, from Carl Junction, Missouri, was traveling with her her parents Whitney and Dan and her older brother Evan. The Peoria County Sheriff's Office said: 'When the plane landed Deputies, AMT Personnel, and Air National Guard Fire personnel immediately received the 8-year-old female child and began life-saving measures. The flight was operated by SkyWest, which functions through partnerships with United, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and Alaska Airlines 'The child was transported to a local hospital by AMT where she was unfortunately pronounced deceased. 'Please keep the child's family and everyone who was involved in this traumatic experience in your thoughts and prayers.' The flight was operated by SkyWest, which functions through partnerships with United, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and Alaska Airlines. A SkyWest spokesperson said: 'We appreciate the efforts of our crewmembers who responded quickly to assist and the medical personnel who met the aircraft.' One in three Brits support the anti-immigrant protests that have swept across the UK over the last week, a new poll has revealed. Angry far-right mobs have brought chaos to Britain's streets looting shops, setting fire to hotels and targeting police officers in some of the worst disorder in over a decade. Hundreds of people have been arrested so far, with some already appearing in court over the series of charges and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer - who has described the riots as 'far-right thuggery' - called an emergency COBRA meeting today to try to end the chaos. He will meet with top ministers and police chiefs for the second time in two days. And the Director of Public Prosecutions has confirmed that at least one of the 100 people who have so far been charged is being looked at under terrorism legislation. But a new YouGov poll has now revealed that one in 14 Britons are actually sympathetic towards the rioters and believe the unrest is 'completely justified'. A quarter of people hold Muslims responsible for the riots whilst over a third say they bear no responsibility at all. Around a third of those polled have placed their blame on Sir Keir's Labour government. Thirty-eight per cent have also blamed former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Hundreds of far-right wing extremists riot and attack police in Rotherham Protesters taunt police in riot gear during a demonstration in Manchester A YouGov poll has suggested one in three Brits support the recent protests, but 85 per cent of Brits oppose the unrest, with just 7 per cent showing their support Britain has been shaken by violence for more than a week, as police clashed with crowds in cities and towns from Northern Ireland to the south coast of England. Tensions were fuelled by misinformation online that the suspect in the Southport kinfe attack that killed three girls during a Taylor Swift-themed dance event on July 29 was a Muslim asylum seeker who arrived by boat, which boiled over onto the streets. Two-thirds of Brits believe the disorder is caused by rioters, thugs, racists and the far-right, the YouGov poll has revealed, but 9 per cent have instead labelled the protesters as patriots. The poll revealed only 21 per cent of Reform voters supported the rioting, while three-quarters (76 per cent) opposed. And support among other parties is even lower, with only 9 per cent of Conservative voters, 3 per cent of Labour voters and 1 per cent of Lib Dem voters in favour of the disorder. The broader peaceful protests have garnered the support of one in three (34 per cent) members of the public, but more than half (54 per cent) opposed. Reform UK voters backed the wider peaceful protests (81 per cent), but they are the only party to show any great deal of support for them. Fewer than one in five Labour and Lib Dem (18 to 19 per cent) voters supported the protests, while Conservatives were split on the matter (43 per support and 48 per cent oppose). The YouGov poll suggests sympathy for those taking part in the protests is broader. Six in ten Brits (58 per cent) said they had a fair amount of sympathy for those involved in the wider peaceful protests. This included majorities from all party voters. Rioters, social media, far-right groups, Tommy Robinson and the news media, are partially responsible for the rioting, the YouGov poll suggests Reform UK leader Nigel Farage (pictured) holds some level of responsibility for the unrest according to the YouGov poll Far-right activist Tommy Robinson is partly responsible for the rioting, according to the YouGov poll Serious violence and rioting by far-right protesters continues in side streets in Rotherham on Sunday A bin on fire outside the Holiday Inn Migrant hotel in Rotherham A car burns after being overturned during an anti-immigration protest in Middlesbrough BIRMINGHAM: Young men, some in masks, gathered outside a McDonald's in Bordesley Green, Birmingham amid rumours of a far-right gathering When asked who is responsible for the rioting, nine in ten Brits believe the rioters themselves are somewhat responsible for causing the unrest. But social media has been seen as a dominating factor in stirring up tensions, with 86 per cent of the public viewing it as a key driving force. The media has also been blamed by seven in ten Brits as having driven the riots to some degree with one only one in five believing they are not responsible. Forty-six per cent of the public believe that the recent violence has really been to do with the Southport murders, with a similar number (47 per cent) viewing Reform UK leader Nigel Farage as holding some level of responsibility for the unrest. Far-right activist Tommy Robinson has also been blamed for stoking the riots, with 57 per cent of the public saying he is partially responsible. The latest violence on Monday night saw rioters hurl bricks and fireworks in Plymouth, southern England, injuring several police officers. Officers in Belfast, Northern Ireland, were attacked as rioters attempted to set fire to a shop owned by a foreign national. Police said a man in his 30s was seriously assaulted and that they are treating the incident as a racially motivated hate crime. A group of men who gathered in Birmingham, central England, to counter a rumoured far-right demonstration forced a Sky News reporter off air shouting: 'Free Palestine'. She was then followed by a man in a balaclava holding a knife. Police officers with dogs intervene during clashes at Guildhall Square in Plymouth yesterday Police officers stand near the broken windows of the hotel during an anti-immigration protest on August 4, 2024 Property is vandalised as far-right activists in Middlesbrough on August 4 this year Riot police officers push back anti-migration protesters outside the Holiday Inn Express Hotel which is housing asylum seekers on August 4, 2024 in Rotherham Riots broke out in Plymouth on Monday evening after right wing and left wing protests clashed in Plymouth City Centre Police came under attack during further disorder in south Belfast, Northern Ireland last night Violence erupted again in Belfast last night amid ongoing rioting around the UK BIRMINGHAM: Some protesters donned masks to stand on the roundabout - as many have in the riots seen in recent days Over the weekend, around 700 violent anti-immigration rioters clad in balaclavas and draped in St George's flags clashed with officers trying to protect the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham, South Yorkshire. At least 10 officers were injured in the chaos outside the hotel on the northern outskirts of the post-industrial town. One was left unconscious following a head injury, another suffered a suspected fractured elbow and other suspected broken bones. Crowds in Middlesbrough set fire to a car and pushed burning wheelie bins at police, while thugs in Rotherham smashed windows and doors. Meanwhile, a peaceful protest in Bolton descended into chaos when two groups of demonstrators clashed. One charged towards the town hall shouting 'Allahu Akbar' while the other waved England flags. Similar scenes could be seen in Weymouth, as around 400 protesters from opposing sides gathered on the seafront to chant at each other. One side could be heard chanting 'Nazis go home', while the other shouted 'Tommy Robinson'. Objects and pieces of wood were flung at officers who had lined up in front of the hotel in Rotherham with at least one cop in riot gear being carried away by their colleagues. The Prime Minister has vowed rioters would 'regret' taking part in 'far-right thuggery'. Speaking from Downing Street, Sir Keir suggested that rioters taking to the streets, and those 'whipping up this action online and then running away themselves,' would face consequences. The Home Office announced mosques would be offered greater protection under a new 'rapid response process' designed to quickly tackle the threat of further attacks on places of worship. 'People in this country have a right to be safe, and yet we've seen Muslim communities targeted, attacks on mosques,' the Prime Minister said on Sunday. 'Other minority communities singled out, Nazi salutes in the street, attacks on the police, wanton violence alongside racist rhetoric, so no, I won't shy away from calling it what it is: far-right thuggery.' A young man throws a brick at lines of police in Liverpool, as riots in the city close to the Southport stabbing turned violent PLYMOUTH: A man is handcuffed and led away by a police officer PLYMOUTH: Police detain a protester as earlier clashes began to turn ugly LIVERPOOL: Police officers attend to a shell-shocked colleague after a face-off with protesters In Hull, a Shoezone was pictured with smashed windows and a raging fire inside, while a Greggs and a Specsavers had also been targeted by men with face coverings throwing stones A car is vandalised as far-right activists hold a demonstration in Middlesbrough BIRMINGHAM: Pubgoers screamed as protesters faced off against a man outside - before he was kicked to the floor Almost 400 people have been arrested and 100 charged over the week-long disturbances - England's worst disorder in over a decade. Sir Keir, a former chief state prosecutor, has promised swift justice and scores of alleged perpetrators were hauled before judges on Tuesday, with some entering guilty pleas. A 19-year-old man became the first person to receive a prison sentence related to the unrest when he received a two-month term Tuesday. Another man was convicted after he admitted assaulting a police officer outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham, northern England, on Sunday. A 15-year-old boy pleaded guilty to committing violent disorder in Liverpool on Saturday after he was identified from a TikTok video, while a man in Leeds admitted posting threatening words on Facebook to stir up racial hatred. The government, only one month old, has vowed to take a tough line on the unrest and the National Police Chiefs' Council said Monday that 378 people had so far been arrested. Justice minister Heidi Alexander told BBC Radio 4 that the government had freed up an extra 500 prison places and drafted in 6,000 specialist police officers to deal with the violence. SOUTHPORT: In contrast to riots across the country, locals turned out in Southport to lay flowers and teddies and blow bubbles BIRMINGHAM: Men gesture to the camera as they stand on a roundabout amid rumours of a far-right gathering PLYMOUTH: Police form a barrier separating protesters in the city as tensions simmer Police have blamed the disorder on people associated with the now-defunct English Defence League, a far-right Islamophobic organisation founded 15 years ago, whose supporters have been linked to football hooliganism. The rallies have been advertised on far-right social media channels under the banner 'Enough is enough'. Interior minister Yvette Cooper said 'there will be a reckoning' for perpetrators, adding that social media put a 'rocket booster' under the violence. Tech billionaire Elon Musk escalated a dispute with the UK government Tuesday by likening Britain to 'the Soviet Union'. A spokesperson for Starmer had said there was 'no justification' for Musk's earlier comment that a British 'civil war is inevitable'. A dog-sitter who stabbed a British Army army veteran to death for letting her white Pomeranian escape has today been jailed for 23 years. 'Malevolent' Winter Swan-Miller sought 'revenge' on 62-year-old Stuart Crocker by stabbing him 27 times and strangling him with a handbag strap because he let her therapy pet, Oblivion, run away - before it was stolen. The 37-year-old said she had 'no choice' but to kill Mr Crocker and boasted of how she'd been a 'bad girl' on TikTok to achieve 'fame and notoriety', jurors were told. The dog-sitter had 'malign intent' when attacking Mr Crocker, who suffered PTSD from his time in the Army. Today a judge condemned the 'highly manipulative' Swan-Miller for her 'merciless' attack on the veteran, whose body was not found until days after he was killed. Winter Swan-Miller, 37, (pictured) was found guilty of murder after an 11 week trial at Winchester Crown Court, Hants She fatally stabbed 62-year-old Stuart Crocker (pictured) 26 times after he let her therapy dog, Oblivion, escape - before her pet was then stolen The court heard how Swan-Miller told her TikTok followers: 'I did do what I did and I did it because I had no choice. They took away the only thing in my life that I have got, and that's my dog Oblivion'. Pictured is her Pomeranian called Oblivion Opening the trial at Winchester Crown Court, Hampshire, in May, Nicola Shannon KC said Mr Crocker was found dead by paramedics at his home address in Andover, Wilts, on June 28 last year. The 62-year-old's body was found lying under a white blanket with the TV playing and a switched on fan placed behind his head which was used to keep his body cool. Police believed Mr Crocker was stabbed some five days before and his body was 'surrounded by notes' which had been written by Swan-Miller. One note read: 'Take my f****** dog you whore. This is why I've done this haha. 'How does his death feel haha. You thought I would let you get away with taking me for a f****** mug. Taking my dog, are you real.' The jurors were also shown a number of TikToks, organised into parts, which were posted on June 23. In one video, titled 'Part Two', Swan-Miller can be heard saying: 'Taking my dog from me, the only thing in the entire world that I've got. 'I did do what I did and I did it because I had no choice. They took away the only thing in my life that I have got, and that's my dog Oblivion.' The prosecutor said Swan-Miller hoped for 'some degree of fame and notoriety for what she had done'. After going on the run to Birmingham, the dog-sitter was eventually arrested on June 30 and Swan-Miller remained in custody ever since. Yesterday, after a 12 week trial, a jury unanimously found Swan-Miller guilty of murder. Swan-Miller (pictured) was sentenced to 23 years in prison and ordered her to pay 228 in costs Swan-Miller (pictured) said she had 'no choice' but to kill Mr Crocker and boasted of how she'd been a 'bad girl' on TikTok to achieve 'fame and notoriety', jurors were told At her sentencing today, Ms Shannon KC said Swan-Miller had an 'intended desire for revenge' regarding 'the treatment of her dog'. The prosecutor added: 'Significantly, there has been no indication of remorse or acceptance of responsibility after the killing and indeed, multiple instances where Ms Swan Miller seems to find it amusing. 'The behaviour toward Mr Crocker was controlling and coercive. 'This is indicatory of Ms Swan Miller's culpability in the sense that she had a long-term desire to harm. 'This was not something that came to her in the spur of the moment. There was a malign intent towards Mr Crocker.' The prosecutor said there was a 'deprivation of dignity' in the way in which Mr Crocker was killed and said Swan-Miller intended to 'scare, harm and humiliate' him. The court heard a statement from Joseph Kingswell, Mr Crocker's son, who said his father suffered PTSD from serving in the Army during the Northern Ireland troubles. 'The day you walked into my father's life was the day you brought away whatever sanctity and innocence was left in [his] mind,' he said. 'You came into his life under a false pretence and left with your hands bloody, with the blood of my father.' The son described Swan-Miller as a 'malevolent entity' and said his children are 'no longer able to feel the warmth of [their grandfathers] love'. He added: 'My family has been splintered. I wasn't even able to say goodbye to him.' Mitigating on behalf Swan-Miller, Gurdeep Garcha KC said: 'She has listened to the victim impact statements being read to the court and she has been able to hear the impact of Mr Crocker's death on his loved ones. 'She has heard the sentence expressed and will have to come to terms with what she has done.' He added: 'You know that she was 36 at the time, she is 37 now, it will be a very lengthy sentence. It's one that she deserves, but it shouldn't be that long.' Mr Crocker was found dead by paramedics at his home address in Andover, Wilts, on June 28 last year. Pictured: Police at the scene last year Sentencing Swan-Miller, The Recorder of Winchester Judge Morris said: '[Mr Crocker] was someone who previously had dependency issues with both alcohol and drugs caused by his PTSD that he suffered from his time in the Army. 'Having heard the evidence in this case, I am satisfied that your relationship with Stuart Crocker was anything but exclusive and that you came and went from his presence as you pleased.' The judge said the relationship was 'more of a convenience to you than anything born out of coercion from him'. 'If there was any level of control and coercion, that came much more from you to hum than the other way around,' she added. On the Pomeranian, the judge said: 'You had a fixation on Stuart Crocker being responsible for allowing your dog escape his flat. 'Your attack on him at an element of revenge in it.' On the attack, she said: 'It was orchestrated in a forceful and aggressive way against a defenceless man.' Judge Morris said Swan-Miller was a 'highly manipulative person' and her actions were 'merciless and remorseless'. She added: 'If fame and notoriety was your goal then by killing Stuart Crocker in the appalling manner you did, you succeeded in achieving it for all the wrong reasons.' The judge sentenced her to 23 years in prison and ordered her to pay 228 in costs. The 399 days Swan-Miller has already served will be deducted from her sentence. A retired command sergeant major accused Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz of having 'quit' his Minnesota National Guard unit after it was informed to prepare for a deployment to Iraq. Walz, who is Vice President Kamala Harris' selection as her running mate, served for more than two decades in the Army National Guard, and his selection helps bolster the nominee on defense issues. The timing of his separation from the military surfaced during his 2018 campaign for governor. Retired Command Sergeant Major Thomas Behrends of the Minnesota National Guard accused Walz of having 'embellished' his record and of having abandoned his unit when he left the Guard to run for Congress. 'Tim Walz has embellished and selectively omitted facts and circumstances of his military career for years,' Behrends wrote in 2018. 'In early 2005, a warning order was issued to the 1-125th Field Artillery Battalion, which included the position he was serving in, to prepare to be mobilized for active duty for a deployment to Iraq,' Behrends and Paul Herr in a letter they posted on Facebook. Vice President Kamaal Harris has selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate. He spent two decades in the Army National Guard. A retired command sergeant major accused him of having retired to avoid a deployment to Iraq 'On May 16th, 2005, he quit, betraying his country, leaving the 1-125th Field Artillery Battalion and its Soldiers hanging; without its senior Non-Commissioned Officer, as the battalion prepared for war.' 'His excuse to other leaders was that he needed to retire in order to run for Congress,' they wrote, calling the claim 'false.' They say the decision left his unit without a critical leader as it prepared for the deployment. Walz disputed the characterization, telling the Winona Daily News he did not quit due to the deployment orders, in a spat reported by the Daily Wire amid the fierce battle to define Harris' running mate. 'After completing 20 years of service in 2001, I re-enlisted to serve our country for an additional four years following Sept. 11 and retired the year before my battalion was deployed to Iraq in order to run for Congress,' he wrote. Walz, 60, enlisted in the Guard at the age of 17. He became the highest-ranking enlisted soldier to serve in Congress. He said he considered the letter a 'partisan political attack.' 'I'm certainly proud of my military service, but it's one piece of me. It doesn't define me,' Walz told Minnesota Public Radio in 2018. After going through basic training in Georgia, he was deployed to Arkansas, Texas, and the Artic Circle on disaster response and other missions. 'You go where you're told to go,' he said. Al Bonnifield, who served under Walz, told the Minneapolis Star-Tribune Walz had already started thinking about retiring after deploying to Italy during operation Enduring Freedom after Sept. 11th. 'Would the soldier look down on him because he didn't go with us? Would the common soldier say, "Hey, he didn't go with us, he's trying to skip out on a deployment?" And he wasn't,' he told the paper. 'He talked with us for quite a while on that subject. He weighed that decision to run for Congress very heavy. He loved the military, he loved the guard, he loved the soldiers he worked with.' Veteran Joseph Eustice, who led the same battalion as Walz, called him a 'great soldier,' adding, 'When he chose to leave, he had every right to leave. DailyMail.com has reached out to the Harris-Walz campaign for further comment. Walz' duties in a field artillery unit including firing howitzer cannons, a task that according to Walz led to hearing damage that required surgery. The blasts, he wrote in an application for benefits, 'would knock us down and after firing I had ringing in my ears.' Walz served for 21 years in the Army National Guard The Harris camp believes Walz will be able to reach out to rural voters in the Midwest His lawyer said hearing loss played a role in his DUI arrest back in 1995 He underwent a surgical procedure in 2005 called a stapedectomy, where doctors replaced damaged earbones with a synthetic ones. Walz invoked hearing loss during a low point that emerged after Harris selected him over Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and other contenders. Back in 1995, he was pulled over doing 96 mph in a 55 mile per hour zone. He failed a field sobriety test and was arrested for driving under the influence. He later pleaded down the charges to reckless driving. His lawyer, Kerry Greeley told the Rochester, Minnesota Post Bulletin that hearing loss played a role. 'He couldn't understand what the officer was saying to him,' attorney Kerry Greeley told the paper. Neighbors for a Better San Francisco and its leader Jay Cheng have agreed to pay a five-figure sum to settle a case brought against them by investigators for the San Francisco Ethics Commission, according to a copy of the settlement released Monday. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle One of the biggest spenders in San Francisco politics has been hit with a nearly $54,000 penalty for failing to disclose some of its spending to support the June 2022 recall of former District Attorney Chesa Boudin, city ethics officials said Monday. Neighbors for a Better San Francisco and its leader Jay Cheng have agreed to pay the five-figure sum to settle a case brought against them by investigators for the San Francisco Ethics Commission, according to a copy of the settlement released Monday. The investigation found that Neighbors and Cheng failed to disclose $100,833 in payments to a consulting firm that spearheaded media relations efforts for the recall campaign. It also examined the more than $175,000 that a nonprofit linked to Neighbors paid now-District Attorney Brooke Jenkins to work as a consultant while she volunteered for the recall campaign, but did not sustain any wrongdoing related to her income. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Backed by conservative billionaire William Oberndorf, Neighbors has invested heavily in recent elections cycles and is made up of two nonprofits. Its 501(c)4 advocacy wing, which was a respondent in the ethics case alongside Cheng, pumped $4.47 million into the recall. The undisclosed payments were made to consulting firm Riff City Strategies in the nine months leading up to the election. During that time, the firms president, Jess Montejano, acted as a spokesperson for the recall and coordinated interviews for Jenkins, who quit her job under Boudin to join the recall and later succeeded him. Investigators found that the consulting firms recall work appeared to be substantially the same as the services it provided for the Neighbors nonprofit, which should have reported the payments as contributions to the recall effort. The investigation did not find any violations of the law by the consulting firm or Montejano, who declined to comment. Pat Ford, executive director of the Ethics Commission, said in a statement that campaign finance disclosure laws are important because they allow voters to know who is seeking to influence their elections and who is being paid to influence their vote. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In this case, the respondents failed to make the required disclosures, which prevented voters from having a full and accurate picture of who was supporting the DA recall effort, Ford said. In a statement shared with its members, the board of directors for both Neighbors nonprofits said they have put controls and procedures in place to make sure that no matter how small the expense, such an error does not occur again. The board said that the funds at issue in this case amounted to less than 5% of its total spending on the recall. We take our responsibility as public advocates seriously and will continue to hold ourselves to the highest ethical and legal standards in all the work that we do, the board wrote. Jenkins was paid $175,770 by the charity arm of Neighbors between October 2021 and July 2022 to provide public safety consulting services, according to the settlement. Advertisement Article continues below this ad At the time, Jenkins represented herself as a volunteer spokesperson for the recall. After her income was revealed, she told the Chronicle her paid work was separate. The ethics investigation found that Jenkins was reimbursed for recall-related expenses and spent some of her compensated time on activities associated with the recall campaign. However, it is unclear whether those political activities needed to be reported. The parties agree that available records do not clearly establish any violations stemming from this activity, the settlement reads. The parties acknowledge the importance of record-keeping practices for employees and contractors engaged in political activity. Attempts to reach Jenkins through representatives were not successful. Advertisement Article continues below this ad An American woman who was found chained to a tree in the Indian jungle had shackled herself, police have revealed. Lalita Kayi Kumar, 50, was found in a dense forest near Sonurli village, roughly 280miles from Mumbai, about 10 days ago after a local shepherd heard her distressing cries for help. She was taken to a local hospital where she scrawled a message detailing some of her ordeal, including accusing her 'husband' of leaving her in the forest for 40 days. Kumar, who is receiving treatment in a psychiatric facility, has now admitted she is not married and was likely suffering from hallucinations when she gave her statement to authorities, police told the BBC. She also reportedly told investigators she purchased the locks and chain and shackled herself to the tree after having been 'distressed' because her visa had expired and she was running out of money. Lalita Kayi Kumar, 50, was found tied to a tree in a dense forest near Sonurli village, roughly 280miles from Mumbai, on July 27 by a local cattle herder Kumar, who appeared emaciated, was transported to a local hospital where she received treatment for various issues including dehydration and later moved to a psychiatric facility Police sawed off the chain and carried her out of the woods on a stretcher. She was transported her to a local hospital where she received treatment for various issues including dehydration and later moved to a psychiatric facility A local cattle herder found Kumar, who appeared emaciated, on July 27 after he heard 'a woman screaming loudly' from within the forest. 'When I went there, I saw that one of her legs was tied to a tree,' her rescuer recalled. 'She was screaming like an animal. I called other villagers and the local police.' Police sawed off the chain and carried her out of the woods on a stretcher. She was transported her to a local hospital where she received treatment for various issues including dehydration and later moved to a psychiatric facility. Initially unable to speak, Kumar communicated with police and her doctors by scribbling on a notepad. Footage recorded from inside the hospital showed Kumar writing a note about her condition in which she claimed her former husband had left her in the forest for dead after a domestic dispute. She also alleged to have not eaten in 40 days. According to the BBC, investigators had been skeptical of Kumar's story because it is 'unlikely' that one survive going nearly a month without food or water. Kumar (pictured tied to the tree) has now reportedly admitted to having purchased herself the locks and chain herself. She also allegedly said she shackled herself to the tree after having been 'distressed' because her visa had expired and she was running out of money Initially unable to speak, Kumar communicated with police and her doctors in the hospital by scribbling on a notepad Kumar wrote in a letter from her hospital bed claiming her 'former husband' had left her in the forest for dead after a domestic dispute. She also alleged to have not eaten in 40 days. She has since reportedly admitted that she is not married and was likely suffering from hallucinations when she gave her statement to authorities Police recovered a photocopy of her passport - which stated she was an US citizen from Massachusetts - and a national identity card revealing her home address in Tamil Nadu from the scene. She also had a mobile phone, tablet and 31,000 rupees ($370) in her possession. Officials have traced her family in America and Kumar is understood to have communicated with them on the phone. Dr Sanghamitra Phule, superintendent of the hospital where Kumar is currently being treated, says her 'condition is improving'. He told the broadcaster she is eating, walking and exercising, as well as being given 'some nutrients that her body was lacking'. A GP has been suspended after beating himself up in a bid to frame a patient for assault because he wanted him dropped from the surgery's list. Dr Gurkirit Kalkat, 58, called the patient in for an appointment at Thames View Medical Centre in Dagenham, Essex, only to throw himself against the door and begin hitting himself in the chest so he could give a false report to the police. The bewildered patient sat in a chair and looked on as Kalkat shouted: 'Stop hitting me, Ow! This is violence, you're attacking me!', before pressing a panic button to call for help. Police officers were called and took the innocent patient home in handcuffs but the investigation was dropped when Kalkat refused to proceed with a prosecution. Inquiries revealed that Kalkat wanted the patient, who had drug issues, struck off the books at his surgery as it was due to be rebranded under a merger with another doctor's practice. He lied to the patient about having terminal blood cancer to encourage him to register with another GP and even paid out more than 40,000 of his own money to fund rehabilitation treatment. Kalkat was unable to explain why he was paying for the patients treatment out of his own pocket. Dr Gurkirit Kalkat, 58, called the patient in for an appointment at Thames View Medical Centre in Dagenham, Essex, only to throw himself against the door and begin hitting himself in the chest so he could give a false report to the police During an earlier consultation the patient secretly videoed the GP as he falsely claimed he had six months to live and offered him a further 15,000 to leave the practice. At the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service in Manchester Kalkat of Loughton, Essex was suspended from medical practice for 12 months after he was found guilty of serious professional misconduct. He denied wrongdoing. The hearing was told the GP had entered into a written 'contract' with the patient in which he agreed to fund treatment in a rehab clinic for his drug addiction in return for him 'not taking legal action' against Kalkat or the surgery. In total six payments were made to Step One Recovery Ltd totalling 44,150. During one consultation the GP falsely told the man known as Patient A he was going to America for 'immunotherapy' for blood cancer and added: 'If it works, it might give me another five or six months but if it doesn't, then I might not be about in the summer. 'Man to man. All I want you to do is get yourself set up with a practice. Next week, come and see me. The week after, get yourself registered. That week, in the middle of the week, I'll transfer the 10K... 15K to you.' But the the tribunal was told Patient A failed to register with another surgery and on February 3 2020 he was called in for an appointment with Kalkat. Thames View Medical Centre in Dagenham, Essex The patient said: 'I went in to his office for my appointment and he gave me four weeks of prescriptions. Then he stood up and walked towards the door, threw himself against the door slightly and put his fist on his chest and said: "stop hitting me." 'I was still sat in the chair and started to laugh a little bit because I honestly thought he was joking at first. But then he said to his receptionist "You just see him hit me didn't you?" and she replied "Yes, I did." 'He said to me "Now you have used violence you have to leave my surgery". I replied to him "What are you doing? Are you being serious or is this some sick joke?". He again replied "No!". 'I said to Dr Kalkat "I have done nothing wrong and now I have worked out what you're doing. This is how you're trying to remove me from your books because you have been lying about dying of blood cancer and trying to bribe me with money to change surgery as you and another doctor's surgery are joining together." 'The receptionist said to Dr Kalkat "You need to press the emergency button", so he walked straight past me sitting down and pressed the button. I still hadn't moved off the seat I was on. He then said "You have to leave now". 'I replied and said I have done absolutely nothing wrong and was sat there in shock. 'Both police officers who arrived on the scene believed me and didn't believe what Dr Kalkat said and I was released without charge. Dr Kalkat admitted to one of the officers that he has been lying to me about having cancer in an attempt to blackmail me to leave his surgery. 'Dr Kalkat made it look like I hit him, but he was punching himself whilst shouting that I was attacking him. I confirm that I didn't touch Dr Kalkat, I was sat in my chair the whole time.' In response Kalkat said: 'Patient A began demanding 15,000. I rang the receptionist to bring a referral letter and when she was in the consultation room Patient A continued to demand money. 'He started to raise his voice and I went to open the door, hoping that Patient A would just leave after I had given him the referral letter and told him I would not pay him the money. However, at that point Patient A pushed me against the wall and hit me in the chest. 'Police asked whether I wanted to press charges, but ultimately I decided not to as I did not want to see Patient A again and was worried about any repercussions. 'Prior to the assault, Patient A had threatened to harm me and my family and I did not want to have to relive matters during a police investigation or any court case that may have followed. In all my years working as a GP, I have never been assaulted or threatened by a patient before.' Dr Kalkat also faked an account of the incident on Patient A's medical records saying: 'Problem patient review. He was demanding more money for treatment. Witness by receptionist. I feel that he is trying to extort/blackmail money from me. Patient A then jumped up, shoved me to the door and punched me on the left side of the chest.' The hearing was shown a Metropolitan Police report of the incident which read: 'No arrests were made, no police interviews were carried out, no witness statements were obtained and no evidence was gathered, as Dr Kalkat did not wish to pursue the case. 'However there are concerns around the registrant who, of his own admission, for unknown reasons, allegedly gave his patient money for rehab treatment and then patient requesting a further 15,000 which was part of the conversation that took place prior to patient allegedly assaulting registrant. There are also concerns that registrant has told his patient that he has cancer in order to get patient to stop being his patient.' Another police report said: 'Patient stated doctor offered to pay for all his rehab. Patient played videos of this with doctor offering to pay the money. Doctor was asked why he was giving this money and doctor didn't say.' Kalkat declined to attend the MPTS hearing and instead filed written submissions via a lawyer claiming it was not 'safe' enough to appear in person due to Patient A's 'volatile' behaviour. The receptionist who was alleged to have witnessed the incident was said to have been 'unavailable or unable' to make a formal statement. In suspending, MPTS chairman Mr Stephen Killen said: 'Patient A maintained at all times that he did not assault Dr Kalkat and that Dr Kalkat fabricated the allegation. Patient A submitted to giving oral evidence on all events, with the prospect of cross-examination. On the issue of whether he had assaulted Dr Kalkat, Patient A was immovable and consistently maintained that he had not. 'Police recorded that he strongly denied it and the Tribunal was provided with confirmation from the Metropolitan Police that Patient A had attempted to make his own statement of complaint in relation to the incident in the weeks that followed in circumstances in which Patient A had been informed that no further action or criminal prosecution was being taken against him. 'The Tribunal considered it unlikely that Patient A would make a formal complaint of this nature, if he knew he had been witnessed assaulting Dr Kalkat.' He added: 'Dr Kalkat had been taking increasingly inappropriate, desperate and dishonest actions with a view to Patient A registering elsewhere. It was clear that, if Dr Kalkat reported Patient A for being violent towards him, he would no longer be required to act as his GP. 'The Tribunal noted that it had not heard directly from Dr Kalkat and it was not therefore able to test his evidence via questioning. Taking all of the available evidence into account, overall, it was more likely than not that Dr Kalkat's report to police that Patient A had assaulted him was untrue. 'The Tribunal considered that the preponderance of the evidence pointed to the likelihood of Dr Kalkat having engineered this incident as part of his attempts to have Patient A removed from his patient list.' A South Carolina beach cop accused of running over and killing a woman as she was sunbathing has been allowed to retire. Former beach safety director LCpl. Julian Duke Brown stepped down from the role with Horry County Police on July 26. It came just weeks after he hit and killed nurse Sandra Schultz-Peters, 66, on the packed Nash Beach. A resolution has been filed with Horry County Public Safety Committee to declare Browns gun as surplus property and to make it available to him after his retirement, WMBF reports. Brown was placed on administrative leave following the tragic incident in June. He first joined the force in 1988 and had been the beach safety lead for his entire career. South Carolina beach cop L Cpl. Julian Duke Brown who was accused of running over and killing a woman as she was sunbathing has been allowed to retire But a wrongful death suit filed by the victim's family claims he failed to check for people or objects in the way before driving onto the sand. The filings state he also ran over another person's belongings on the beach prior to hitting Schultz-Peters. Schultz-Peters was lying on the sand when she was struck and became trapped under the vehicle for several minutes. Photographs posted online show dozens of people crowded around the Horry County Police Department vehicle in the sand during the aftermath. Dennis Miller, said he was among those who tried to free Schultz-Peters from beneath the truck. Nurse Sandra Schultz-Peters, 66, was fatally hit by a Horry County Police vehicle at Nash Beach in South Carolina in June Nash Beach was packed at the time, and horrified witnesses have recalled hearing a scream at the point of impact before several people rushed to help 'She was pinned underneath the vehicle, so a bunch of men, we came over, we did our best to lift the car up off of her,' he told WMBF. Onlooker Amanda Bilodeau described what happened. 'I heard and saw nothing until I heard her scream and it was the most powerful scream, something that you can't, like nothing from the movies or anything,' she told WMBF News. 'It was just like pure fear or pain or both. Immediately myself and probably everybody on the beach turned around and just went running.' Schultz-Peters was rushed to Grand Strand Regional Medical Center, where she later died. Her, David Schultz, said she was well known at the beach because she walked long distances with her dogs there every day, sometimes as much as 10 miles. 'That morning that she passed, I was with her three times' he told WNBF. Brown first joined the force in 1988 and had been the beach safety lead for his entire career Schultz-Peters' brother, David Schultz, said she was well known at the beach because she walked long distances with her dogs there every day, sometimes as much as 10 miles 'She is well, well, well missed. God put her on this earth for a reason I believe and someone took it away and I'll deal with that down the road. 'Sandy was probably the best person I ever had in my life.' 'It's killing me, it's really hurting, really bad,' he added. 'I'm just trying to keep everything together, but I'm the one that's loosing it the most.' This is the moment a greedy distraction thief walked away with a kind-hearted woman's phone after duping her into thinking he needed help. Florin Petrache strolled into the business claiming to be an Italian called Mario who needed help translating something. When his victim offered to take a look, he took a piece of paper out of his pocket, unfolded it, and held it in front of her to read at her desk. With her mobile phone momentarily obscured from her view, he used sleight of hand to grab it behind the sheet of paper he was holding and carry it away. He then casually folded the paper around the handset with his other hand to make sure it was completely concealed from view as he left the premises. Florin Petrache strolled into the business claiming to be an Italian called Mario The 'lost tourist' distraction technique was used repeatedly by Petrache and an accomplice, Gabriel Stanescu, who acted as driver for the pair. Over the course of just a few weeks in February and March this year, they managed to steal around 50,000 worth of mobile phones and cash using the same system in businesses including beauty salons, estate agents, dental surgeries and even a library. Sometimes a leaflet was used instead of a sheet of paper. The incident caught on CCTV occurred in February in Dereham, Norfolk, but the men also scammed people in Suffolk, Essex and the Thames Valley area. They were finally caught on March 12 when a victim in Dersingham, west Norfolk, realised what had happened and noted down the registration of the green Lexus car they were using. Petrache then told the woman her needed her help translating something Police stopped the car on the A149 between North Walsham and Cromer and found several handsets matching those that had been reported stolen that day, as well as others that had been swiped previously. Petrache, 34, who was based in the Great Yarmouth area of Norfolk, has now been jailed for two years after admitting eight counts of theft and asking for 31 other offences to be taken into consideration. Stanescu, 22, of Ipswich, Suffolk, received a 21-month jail term after pleading guilty to six theft charges, with another 27 offences taken into account. Norwich Crown Court heard Petrache had been responsible for a similar mini crimewave in October 2020. When his victim offered to take a look, he took a piece of paper out of his pocket, unfolded it, and held it in front of her to read at her desk Stanescu denied being involved in these earlier offences, claiming he had been in Romania at the time. While in custody, both agreed to assist a force scheme called Operation Converter, under which criminals are encouraged to own up to unsolved crimes. The thieves, who are both understood to be from Romania, were told in court that they would be eligible for deportation after serving 12 months of their sentences. Sgt Holly Metcalf and PC Vicky Sweetland, who led the investigation, said after last week's sentencing: 'This was a complex and detailed investigation across different forces with multiple victims, CCTV and eye-witnesses providing evidence going back four years. With her mobile phone momentarily obscured from her view, he used sleight of hand to grab it behind the sheet of paper he was holding and carry it away 'These types of offences are a stark reminder to keep your valuables out of sight and be aware when using expensive items in public.' Operation Converter supervisor Duncan Etchells added: 'Petrache and Stanescu were prolific offenders who locked onto the fact most unsuspecting people have their phones close to them at work as they go about their daily business. 'However, with many handsets now worth over 1,000, it is easy to become a target. 'With both now behind bars, the number of phones stolen will be reduced.' A husband has admitted killing his wife after her body was found lying face down in an attic and is set to stand trial for her murder. Tia Simmonds, 32, was found dead under bedding and clothing in Parbury Road, Forest Hill, southeast London, on 3 January this year. Shane Simmonds, 39, appeared at the Old Bailey today where he admitted manslaughter but denied murder. Police officers went to the couple's home and found Mrs Simmonds 'lying face down on her front' in their attic, the Old Bailey heard. Simmonds, who also admitted, two charges of rape against a teenage girl, will begin his two week trial on 14 October. Shane Simmonds, 39, appeared at the Old Bailey (pictured) today where he admitted manslaughter but denied murder. Simmonds, who wore a grey t-shirt and sweat pants admitted manslaughter by diminished responsibility of Ms Simmonds but denied murder. He also admitted two counts of rape in relation to another female. It is claimed a knife was also found in the en-suite bathroom area of the converted attic. Simmonds was arrested after voluntarily attending a police station in the early hours of 3 January. An Afghan refugee who won a full scholarship to Yale is suing 15 women's organizations and their former attorney for calling him a rapist after he was cleared of the crime. Saifullah Khan was charged with raping a fellow student at the Ivy League college after a Halloween party in 2015, but he sued her for defamation after a jury found him not guilty in March 2018. The saga became one of the most famous talking points of the #MeToo movement, with 78,000 people signing a petition demanding Khan's expulsion, and the accused man appearing in a Louis Theroux documentary. The former neuroscience student filed a $110 million claim against the college when it expelled him, and he has now launched an action against the groups that tried to stop him from suing his accuser. 'It is essential to hold accountable those who make false accusations while continuing to support and protect genuine victims of abuse,' said Khan's lawyer, Alex Taubes. The now-31-year-old Saifullah Khan, who began attending Yale on a full scholarship in 2012 as a neuroscience major, claims the university ruined his reputation Lawyer Jennifer Becker represented 15 civil rights groups who filed a court submission labeling Khan a rapist after he had been cleared of the offense Khan, now 31, was expected to graduate 'with a Yale baccalaureate,' and 'was on the cusp of a world filled with promise,' according to his lawyers, after he won a place at the college in 2012. On Halloween night 2015, he went to an off-campus party of the college's Shabtai Jewish society with his accuser before the pair attended a performance by the Yale Student Orchestra at Woolsey Hall. She told police she had never been drunk before but had consumed so much alcohol at the party that she threw up before returning to her dorm, where she claimed, Khan forced himself on her. She reported the alleged attack the following morning and Khan was suspended by the college for more than two years until the case reached court in March 2018, when a jury cleared him in less than three hours. But in October of that year Khan was suspended again after another student accused him of slapping him during a threesome and physically attacking him on several occasions. He then found himself hauled before the college's Committee on Sexual Misconduct, at which his original accuser repeated her allegations of sexual assault. Khan was expelled three months later, after the committee found against him, and he pursued his legal action against his accuser and the college by the end of 2019. A judge threw out the case against his accuser on the grounds that witnesses and victims have absolute immunity against defamation in 'quasi-judicial hearings'. Documentary TV maker Louis Theroux followed the Khan case for six months Khan, a native of Afghanistan, filed a lawsuit against Yale (pictured) after accusing the university of denying him an education But the Connecticut Supreme Court reinstated it on appeal after finding that Yale's committee hearing had lacked due process because Khan had not been allowed to call witnesses or cross-examine his accuser. Fifteen civil rights groups- including Jewish Women International, Legal Momentum, the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation, and the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence - had demanded that the supreme court throw out Khan's defamation case. They banded together to put their names behind an amicus brief, which is a submission from a party not directly involved in a case. But despite Khan's acquittal, the original version of their brief flatly asserted that 'When Jane Doe was in college, the Plaintiff raped her.' The amicus brief was later revised after objections from Khan's lawyers, but they believe he has the right to sue them for defamation because the original wording remains permanently online as part of the legal record. 'Defendants, organizations with assets exceeding $200,000,000 and an experienced attorney, repeated allegations as facts in an application to file a brief with the Connecticut Supreme Court,' his latest filing claims. Attorney Jennifer Becker, who represented the groups, issued a formal apology for the wording. But Khan's legal team claims her culpability was compounded because she 'spent over six years serving as an Assistant District Attorney for the Bronx County District Attorney Office, where she prosecuted hundreds of cases, including rape cases.' Khan is now seeking both both compensatory and punitive damages for 'defamation, false light, negligent infliction of emotional distress, and abuse of process' claiming 'grievous harm' to his reputation and well-being. Taubes accused the groups of 'making reckless and damaging statements without accountability, potentially undermining the principle that acquittal should underscore the presumption of innocence.' 'Defamatory statements that disregard due process not only harm the individuals involved but also weaken the integrity of our legal system,' he told The College Fix. 'A victory would underscore the importance of accurate and fair representation in legal filings and public statements,' he added. A California father-of-two is fighting for his life after he was shot in the head by a stray bullet as he slept. Run Hua Kuang, 33, returned from his job as a delivery truck driver and took a nap on August 1 when he was struck by a bullet in his East Oakland housing project home. The stray bullet soared through a wall, penetrated the headboard and went through Kuang's head before coming out of his left eye, according to a GoFundMe set up by his sister Jasmine. Kuang underwent a seven-hour surgery after the shooting and is now on life support in the ICU. 'This shocking incident has left the entire family traumatized and in deep distress. This tragedy has created a severe financial burden for our family,' Jasmine said. Run Hua Kuang (pictured), 33, is fighting for his life after he was shot in the head by a stray bullet The father of seven-month-old and three-year-old daughters (pictured) returned from his job as a delivery truck driver and took a nap when he was hit 'Huas absence is even more of a hardship and struggle since he is the only one who can speak limited English and take care of the responsibilities and communications for the household.' Kuang immigrated to the U.S. from Taishan, China in 2005 and is the sole breadwinner for his wife of seven years and their seven-month-old and three-year-old daughters along with his parents. It is unclear what the circumstances are around the shooting. DailyMail.com has reached out to the Oakland Police Department and the Oakland Housing Authority Police Department for comment. Residents of the city are grappling with out-of-control crime and the loss of confidence in their elected leader. While scenes of brazen criminal activity in the city have become common, Democrat mayor Sheng Thao's fledgling administration is wrought with scandal. Crime-ridden Oakland has just 35 officers on patrol across the city at any given moment, the police department has admitted. Oakland is a city of around 435,000 residents, meaning that there is just one cop on patrol for every 12,500 citizens. The stray bullet soared through a wall, penetrated the headboard and went through Kuang's head Kuang immigrated to the U.S. from Taishan, China in 2005 and is the sole breadwinner for his wife of 7 years, their two kids and his parents The department is made up of 705 officers, but is only authorized by the city to have 678. Similarly sized Miami has over 1,100 sworn members of its police force and Long Beach, California has 824 officers. Even though the homicide rate has come down, Oakland has more murders than the US average. That's while robberies and car thefts have doubled and tripled respectively when compared to pre-pandemic rates. Among the most shocking include a mass shooting at a Juneteenth celebration at Lake Merritt and an elderly woman getting attacked and robbed in broad daylight. Just last month, 100 robbers tore a gas station apart and picked the shelves clean, their conduct not generating a timely police response. Six drug dealers were filmed being executed after confessing to working for a high-ranking police officer in Mexico, a terrifying video shows. The victims were lined up together by alleged members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel as a man talking behind the cell phone camera interrogated one of the dealers over their ties to Conrado Corral, a commander in the Michoacan Public Security Department. When asked what they do for a living, the street-level drug pusher told the cartel henchman, 'we steal' while later indicating that they received orders from Corral, otherwise known as 'El Guero,' a slang term in Mexico for a white person. The dealer confessed that they are instructed to steal 'everything we find on the streets' and that Corral sets them free in the event they are busted. Six alleged drug dealers were filmed as one of them was interrogated by a member of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel before they were shot and killed recently. Several bags containing their body parts were found Monday in Zitacuaro, a city in the western Mexico state of Michoacan Conrado Corral, a high-ranking official within the state police in the western Mexico state of Michoacan has been accused by drug cartels of criminal behavior in the past. A recent video showed an alleged drug dealer confessing to receiving orders from Corral before he and five other men were executed While the exact date of the filmed executions is unknown, the dealer claims that they had been stealing for two days and that Corral 'won't leave us alone and forced us to steal again.' The group was allegedly carrying methamphetamine when they were intercepted by the cartel's armed wing unit and the dealer claimed they received 50 percent of the sales that were made. Within a matter of seconds, each drug dealer was shot in the back of the head. Their bodies were placed inside six garbage bags that were left during the early hours of Monday at two neighborhoods within the Michoacan municipality of Zitacuaro. The cartel hung two banners made out of cloths that threatened the National Guard. 'You want war, war is what you will get,' the sign read. Corral has been accused in the past of being linked in the past to William 'El Barbas' Rivera, who leads the Jalisco New Generation Cartel operations in Michoacan. William 'El Barbas' Rivera allegedly leads the Jalisco New Generation Cartel operations in the western Mexico state of Michoacan Bags containing the remains of six alleged drug dealers were abandoned on a street in Zitacuaro, Mexico on Monday In a recording of a phone conversation that was leaked in March 2023, an individual claiming to be Rivera questioned Corral over not protecting him despite their friendship and having received money from the criminal organization. In January, three bodies were found inside the trunk of an abandoned car at a gas station in Zitacuaro. The suspects also left behind a sign, accusing Corral of being responsible for the cartel having killed the individuals. 'These deaths are because of you, Conrado,' the sign read. 'The day you are no longer in this municipality, we will have peace.' Corral, at the time, was the director Zitacuaro police station, and in March was named director of the National Guard stations in Michoacan. However, he was removed from the post in mid-July and was assigned to another police leadership post in Zitacuaro police. Tim Walz, Kamala Harris' running mate, has a deep affection for China after being one of the first government-sanctioned Americans to teach in the country. Walz, 60, went to China straight after college through a program set up by Harvard University and taught in Guangdong province, shortly after the Tiananmen Square massacre in Beijing in 1989. He would later honeymoon in China with his wife Gwen, bringing a group of 60 young people with them In the 1990s the couple set up a business which took high school students to China every summer for around a decade. Walz has been to China dozens of times, including on trade missions, and has called his experiences there 'amazing'. His admiration for the country opens the door for him to be attacked by Donald Trump and Republicans as the U.S, and China enter a period of increasing economic and military rivalry. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz before Vice President Kamala Harris speaks on March 14, 2024, in St. Paul, Minnesota Tim Walz's first trip to China reported in his local newspaper Walz, who speaks some Mandarin, said recently he did not accept that China had to be an 'adversary'. He said: 'I've lived in China and, as I've said, I've been there about 30 times. If anyone tells you they're an expert on China they're probably not telling you the truth because it's a complex country. 'But it's critically important for us. I don't fall into the category that China necessarily needs to be an adversarial relationship, I totally disagree.' Responding to Walz's selection Donald Trump's running mate J.D. Vance, speaking in Philadelphia, accused him of planning to send jobs to China. Vance said: 'Tim Walz is a guy who wants to shift more and more American manufacturing jobs to China. 'He said it on camera in the name of the green energy scam. If you care about the environment, and I certainly do, why are you going to ship American manufacturing jobs to the dirtiest economy in the world? Why wouldn't you keep them right here, in Pennsylvania, the places that really need it?' 'To have a guy who wants to ship manufacturing jobs to China? There is no way the American people are going to buy it. It just doesn't make sense.' Tim Walz in an undated photo from the Mankato West High School Alumni for Walz Facebook Group. Walz is seen here on a class trip Following his first trip to China, teaching at Foshan Number One High School, Walz told his local newspaper, the Alliance Star-Herald in Nebraska: 'No matter how long I live I'll never be treated that well again. They gave me more gifts than I could bring home. It was an excellent experience.' He said 'China was coming, and thats the reason that I went,' and expressed his admiration for how hard his Chinese students at Foshan No. 1 High School worked. He said: 'If they had the proper leadership there are no limits on what they could accomplish. They are such kind, generous, capable people. They just gave and gave and gave to me. Going there was one of the best things I have ever done.' As a teacher back in the United States, Walz had a Chinese banner in his office. Kamala Harris picked Tim Walz as her running mate A report from Tim Walz's local newspaper abut his trips to China According to a report in the Alliance Times-Herald in 1993, while students raised money for that summer's trip to the country, Chinese authorities paid 'a large part of the cost'. Walz reportedly told the students to 'downplay their American-ness' on the trip. A Chinese university was reportedly helping with expenses for food, rooms and transportation. The following year seven students reportedly received $800 'scholarships' to help with the cost. The scholarships were sponsored by Walz, his wife, and 'the Chinese government'. According to a report in Nebraska's Alliance Times-Herald in 1993, while students raised money for that summer's trip, Chinese authorities paid 'a large part of the cost' Walz told students to 'downplay their American-ness' A Chinese university was reportedly helping with expenses for food, rooms and transportation J.D. Vance accused Walz of wanting to send U.S. jobs to China The following year seven students reportedly received $800 'scholarships' to help with the cost. The scholarships were sponsored by Walz, his wife, and 'the Chinese government'. Michael Sobolik, senior fellow at the American Foreign Policy Council, said it was 'notable' that 'the Chinese government funded Tim Walzs student exchange trips to China in the 90s. 'By Walzs own admission, it was unusual that the government paid a large part of the cost.' California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced that the state's national guard prosecutors will be taking over Alameda County cases, in a blow to progressive district attorney Pamela Price. Newsom made the announcement on Monday, months after the California Highway Patrol was expanded and deployed in Oakland to help assist local authorities with crime. The Democrat said national guard's Counterdrug Task Force has finalized an agreement with California Department of Justice that is 'modeled after a successful partnership established in San Francisco with District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, which has helped boost felony narcotics convictions in San Francisco.' Newsom added: 'I am grateful for the quick work here by the Attorney General and the California National Guard to swiftly finalize this agreement so these talented attorneys can soon help secure justice for the people of the Bay Area.' California governor Gavin Newsom has announced that the state's national guard prosecutors will be taking over Alameda County cases Price is the latest progressive district attorney who ran on a platform of offender rehabilitation and police accountability to face a recall vote Earlier this year the governor rescinded an offer to send prosecutors to Oakland to crack down on rising crime in the San Francisco Bay Area city, where brazen robberies in broad daylight have drawn national attention. At the time Newson said that Price's office did not benefit from the offer because it missed the deadline to apply - which Price denied. In response to Gavin's move, Price issued a statement saying she welcomes the state prosecutors. Price added: 'We hope the swift agreement reached between the DOJ and CalGuard yields equally swift results, and my office is willing to assist in that effort in any way possible.' Newsom has also deployed over 100 California Highway Patrol officers to also help with targeted crackdowns on criminal activity in Oakland, a city of 400,000 people across the bay from San Francisco. San Francisco has seen a spike in violent crimes, including serious drug-related offenses, retail theft, and auto burglaries, even though crime in other California urban centers is falling. Price is the latest progressive district attorney who ran on a platform of offender rehabilitation and police accountability to face a recall vote in November. San Francisco has seen a spike in violent crimes, including serious drug-related offenses, retail theft, and auto burglaries, even though crime in other California urban centers is falling A homeless encampment in Oakland, California The prosecutor is battling a recall just two years after she was elected in November 2022, several months after San Francisco voters ousted Chesa Boudin from the top prosecutors job. Like Price, Boudin was also a political newcomer in his first term as district attorney whose critics collected enough signatures to put the issue to voters. Prior to taking office, Price was a civil rights attorney who championed women, victims of domestic violence and youth caught up in the criminal justice system. Her opponents say she has emboldened criminals at a time when Oakland, the countys most populous city, reported a rise in crime, prompting Gov. Gavin Newsom to send in highway patrol officers and state prosecutors to help. Her supporters say Price has been targeted by wealthy conservatives who do not want to reform a flawed and racist criminal justice system. They say she should have more time to make good on her campaign promises. Public Works employees dismantle the tent of homeless man Ramon Castillo, not pictured, while he was being detained by the police on Folsom Street near 18th Street in San Franciscos Mission District on July 30. Gabrielle Lurie/The Chronicle In the first week since San Francisco began escalating a crackdown on homeless encampments, police officers issued at least 13 citations for illegally setting up tents on public property surpassing the total handed out in the prior four weeks combined. From July 30 through Aug. 5, officers issued 13 citations for illegal lodging, compared with 11 in the month prior, according to data from the San Francisco Police Department. Officials say they are using citations as a last resort for people living in encampments who turn down offers of shelter or housing. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The rise in citations comes in the wake of recent court rulings that granted local officials broad power to clear encampments. Mayor London Breed is increasingly taking a hard line against homelessness and drug use as she faces a competitive reelection in November and is working to prove to voters that she is taking seriously their concerns about the street conditions across the city. The mayor ordered city employees last week to offer homeless people who came to San Francisco from other cities a bus ticket out of town before presenting shelter or housing as an option. Breeds administration and the police department say they hope to get unhoused people off the streets for their own health and safety, as well as for the benefit of neighbors. But homeless advocates argue officials are using the wrong approach. Our No. 1 goal is to get people into shelter and eventually stable housing, but the status quo with encampments and all of the health and safety issues that come along with that cannot continue, said San Francisco Police Department spokesperson Evan Sernoffsky. Our job is to enforce the law. Ideally the citations would motivate unhoused people to move indoors, Sernoffsky said. But even if they dont, people have to obey the law, just like any citizen, he added. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A Chronicle reporter documented one of the recent citations in which an unhoused man was arrested after turning down shelter. Officers put him in handcuffs and placed in the back of a squad car for about 20 minutes while Public Works employees dismantled his tent and threw away nearly all of his belongings. He was later released and handed a misdemeanor citation for illegal lodging. The following day, a Chronicle reporter observed that several tents had replaced his single tent in the same location. A group of more than two dozen nonprofit organizations that support the citys homeless community, including the Coalition on Homelessness, San Francisco AIDS Foundation and Treatment on Demand Coalition, penned a letter to state and local officials to push back against the recent inhumane sweeps and increased enforcement against unhoused people. We urge the leadership of San Francisco to support evidence-based solutions that solve homelessness instead of wasting millions of dollars on carceral solutions that make homelessness worse, the letter read. San Franciscos tougher stance was only possible because a federal appeals court formally modified on July 30 an earlier court order that restricted San Francisco from enforcing a handful of laws to clear homeless tents. That court order, in place since December 2022, was part of a lawsuit from the Coalition on Homelessness over how the city was sweeping encampments. The updated order came after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that enforcing anti-camping laws without offering an alternative housing option did not constitute cruel and unusual punishment. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In a memo released on the same day as the updated court ruling, Breed announced that the city was adjusting its practices for clearing encampments and instituting progressive penalties in hopes of compelling people to move indoors. The rise in citations is, in part, fueled by new teams of police officers paired with city workers who will enforce anti-camping laws for smaller encampments without giving the usual 72 hours notice. Jeff Cretan, a spokesperson for the mayor, countered by saying more than almost anywhere else, San Francisco has created options for people to move indoors. The administrations main objective is for more people to accept shelter or housing, but enforcement is needed for a growing number of people who are refusing, he said. When people refuse that help, we will enforce our laws, he said in an email. Al McDonald, who has lived in San Francisco for more than five decades, said conversations about homelessness are often monopolized by extremes and that people in the middle often dont get to play a part. He said he feels like the mayors recent efforts to address the homelessness and drug crises are aiming for a middle ground. I totally support having constraints on what the homeless people are allowed to do on the sidewalks, and yet I also support having services and housing available to them, he said. I feel like in many ways what Mayor Breed is trying to do is go down that difficult path of offering both. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Anna Berg, director of programs at the Harm Reduction Therapy Center, doesnt see it the same. Berg helped an RV owner secure some of his belongings Friday morning before officials towed the vehicle away for expired registration, according to outreach workers and officers on site. Theyre making people more homeless, Berg said. I have yet to hear any real solution to this challenge. Since 2018, the city has increased shelter capacity by more than 60% and significantly expanded housing slots for formerly homeless people, according to her office. But there still arent nearly enough shelter beds for the 8,323 homeless people recently counted across San Francisco. San Franciscos adult shelters were 93% full Tuesday, according to data from the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing. Most of the remaining available beds are saved for people exiting hospital stays or jails, or for those impacted by encampment sweeps. Vice President Kamala Harris' new running mate has a name recognition issue. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was selected to run alongside Harris, the VP announced on Tuesday morning, and he will appear for the first time with the presidential candidate at a rally in Philadelphia later in the event. But Americans' familiarity with Walz and his favorability rating is much lower than Donald Trump running mate Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio). Additionally, Walz, 60, has garnered some criticism for appearing older than his age. One X user questioned how he and VP Harris, 59, are only one year apart. The governor responded in a July 23 post that he balded early because he 'taught high school' and 'supervised the lunchroom for 20 years.' 'You do not leave that job with a full head of hair. Trust me,' he added. Harris narrowed down her list of running mates to just three white, male politicians earlier this week and was weighing bringing on board Walz, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.). Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has extremely low name recognition, a new poll reveals as Vice President Kamala Harris selected the progressive governor as her running mate Meanwhile, way more Americans know the name of Donald Trump's running mate Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) But a NPR/PBS News/Marist National Poll reveals that despite her choice of Walz, a whopping 71 percent of Americans have either never heard of him or don't know how to rate the progressive governor. Only 17 percent of U.S. residents polled have a favorable view towards Walz and 12 percent say they have an unfavorable view of him. Meanwhile, Sen. Kelly and Gov. Shapiro have higher name recognition and much higher favorability. Vance is much more known by Americans, according to the survey taken in early August and released on Tuesday. Only 23 percent of respondents don't know who Vance is or don't know whether they would rate him favorably or unfavorably. Despite only serving in the Senate since last year, Vance earned name recognition through his memoir Hillbilly Elegy, which was adapted into a Netflix film with stars like Amy Adams and Glenn Close playing the senator's mother and grandmother. Vance has a 34 percent favorability rating, but more 43 percent view him negatively in the new Marist poll. 'Communism makes you old,' one X user wrote of Walz in criticizing Harris for picking a candidate the same age as her and for appearing even older than his age. Another user wrote: 'He's an old fat white guy no matter how you slice it. I didn't even think that was allowed in the Dem party in 2024. Impressive.' Some Democrats were hoping Harris would choose a younger No. 2 from a swing state, like Shapiro in Pennsylvania or Kelly in Arizona, to help secure a state critical to winning in November. Sen. J.D. Vance holds a press conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ahead of Harris and Walz appearing in the city for their first joint campaign rally Harris announced on Tuesday she selected Walz as her VP pick Shapiro, 51, has a 25 percent favorability rating and 23 percent unfavorable, while 53 percent of respondents said they either never heard of him or were unsure how they would rate him. And Kelly had the highest favorability among Democratic VP picks with 31 percent compared to just 18 percent unfavorability for the former astronaut. But still, Sen. Kelly doesn't have name recognition or impact enough to warrant an opinion of 52 percent of respondents. Democrats are hoping that Walz will appeal to voters in battleground states in the midwest. But Minnesota, although a midwest state, is not thought the same as other swing states in the region like Michigan and Wisconsin because it leans further left especially in the 2020 election. An Ohio woman who launched a burrito at a Chipotle worker in a fit of rage and then blamed her behavior on being a Gemini has completed her unusual court-ordered punishment. Rosemary Hayne, 39, was caught on camera hurling the Mexican meal at Emily Russell, 26, the store manager at a Chipotle in Parma, Cleveland, last September, because she was dissatisfied with the wait time and food. The hot-headed customer pleaded guilty to assault in December, and Judge Timothy Gilligan ordered her to work 20 hours per week at a fast food restaurant as punishment. Hayne told New York Magazine's Grub Street that she had never thrown food - or any other object - at anyone before, and gave a bizarre explanation as to why she made an exception for Russell. 'She pulled the Italian Gemini out of me,' Hayne said. 'I'm 40 years old and nobody's ever done that, not even my husband.' Judge Gilligan said that Hayne's sentence 'wasn't about punishment' but 'gaining empathy'. 'You didn't get your burrito bowl the way you like it and this is how you respond?' he'd told Hayne during sentencing. 'This is not real housewives of Parma. This behavior is not acceptable.' But the punishment does not appear to have had the desired effect. For a start, Hayne had already worked in fast food restaurants at previous jobs, so she knew what it was like to have customers kick off over orders. 'To get that rather than have to sit in jail amen, thank you,' Hayne told Grub Street. 'Let me go to Burger King and be their b****, for real.' The first step was for Hayne to get a job at a fast food joint - a difficult task given she felt compelled to mention the burrito-bowl incident rather than risk them finding out via the viral video part way through the application process. 'I was completely honest with people,' she said. 'And I did get shut down probably seven times.' Hayne was sentenced to work at a fast-food chain for two months in lieu of a prison sentence after being found guilty of one count of assault Russell told the court that she had been traumatized by the assault and had to quit her job at Chipotle, where she had worked for more than four years In January this year, Hayne landed a job at a Burger King. She said she approached the job with a positive attitude, and only dealt with one rowdy customer. The patron wanted four mozzarella sticks with eight packets of marinara sauce. When she was told she would have to pay more for the extra sauce, she objected. Hayne's Burger King colleagues made the woman pay for extra sauce and everyone went about their day - but it appears Hayne is still prone to siding with the customer. 'If I was on the drive-through: 'Here's your eight f***ing sauces, have a nice day,' she said. 'I know that the customer is always right whether they're wrong or not, give 'em what they want. That burger ain't costing you s***. It ain't costing that company s***.' Hayne also defended her own outburst rather than learning from it - saying the one-minute video took the violent interaction out of context. A viral video shows Hayne screaming at Russell in a Chipotle and hurling an entire burrito bowl at her face earlier this year The Chipotle worker also said she had remade Hayne's order twice and added extra protein, but Hayne returned and abruptly hurled the bowl in her face She said if an extended version had been caught, 'you will see me waiting for 35 minutes. You'll see me say something to Emily that's not rude or anything. You'll see her talk rude to me.' 'I wish I could post that,' she added. Hayne said even the cops who came to her home agreed with her assessment of the fast food joint, telling her she should have ventured to the Chipotle in the next town over. 'When the police came to my house, I swear to God, the first thing they said to me was, 'You know you f***ed up by going to that Chipotlethat Chipotle is s***!' Hayne told Grub Street. Hayne's lawyer interjected at this comment, adding that 'none of that is a defense', while Hayne agreed she was 'absolutely wrong' to launch her chicken burrito bowl. She also revealed that the bowl contained an all-beige ensemble - white rice, chicken, sour cream, and cheese. Russell said Chipotle was not supportive following the assault and 'it was mentally and physically getting hard' Russell however was pleased with the sentencing. 'She didn't get a slap on the wrist, so she's gonna learn how to work in fast food and hopefully it will be good,' the Chipotle employee said. A three-month-old Rochester boy was mauled to death by the family's two pitbulls after the parents 'left the infant alone to go and buy drugs.' The baby 'suffered severe trauma' after the vicious attack on Saturday at a home at Bidwell Terrace. Police are now investigating what happened before the attack, officials said, Associated Press reported. Officers from the Rochester Police Department and emergency personnel arrived at the home around 1pm in response to a 911 call. At the scene CPR and other life-saving measures were performed on the 12-week-old. The child was transported to Strong Hospital but died from the injuries he sustained Animal control officers seized the dogs from the home and believed the animals attacked the child. A 3-month-old baby was left alone in a home while parents reportedly went out to buy drugs The home was located at Bidwell Terrace in the Rochester neighborhood The parents names were not disclosed. On Tuesday, Rochester radio WHAM 1180 reported that there has been no official comment made by the police. The child's death is now being investigated by Child Protective Services, the Rochester Police Department and the Monroe District Attorney's office. As of Tuesday afternoon, there were no charges filed. When DailyMail.com contacted the Monroe District's Attorney's office, they declined to speak. An unidentified person from the DA's office told DailyMail.com, 'we have no information.' They also said the case was 'not in the system yet.' When asked if that is typically the procedure as the tragedy happened Saturday, the person did not respond and hung up the phone abruptly. The child's death is now being investigated by Child Protective Services, the Rochester Police Department and the Monroe District Attorney's office There was mixed reviews from people in the community who heard the tragic news. 'Prayers for this little angel,' one person wrote. Another asked: 'Will there be a punishment for these 'adults'? 'Absolutely heartbreaking,' said another. 'How SAD ....... ROTTENCHESTER NEEDS HELP BAAADDDD!!!!' Anyone with information is asked to call the Major Crimes Unit at (585)-428-7157 or email at MajorCrimes@CityofRochester.gov. Los Angeles residents took to social media over the weekend to complain about a techno festival being held miles away. The gripes filed in Friday and Saturday on sites like X and Reddit, all because of noise at the Hard Summer music festival at Hollywood Park. The neighborhood is located several miles from LA's Westside - but that didn't stop people in places like Culver City and Manhattan Beach from airing complaints. The sounds were apparently so pronounced that a police department some six miles was forced to weigh in, all while artists like Nelly Furtado, Sofi Tukker, Disclosure, and Bunt performed. Loud music and vibrating bass was the result - all in the style of electronic, house, and techno genres, and hip-hop and dubstep as well. The five-stage festival was held right outside SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, and welcomed around 70,000. Los Angeles residents took to social media this past weekend to complain about noise emanating Hard Summer music festival at Hollywood Park, despite it being miles away The gripes filed in Friday and Saturday on sites like X and Reddit, from farflung, ritzy communities like Culver City, Manhattan Beach, and LA's Westside several miles away 'We are aware of the loud booming sound affecting the city,' the El Segundo Police Department said Friday in a post to X published around 9:16pm, after several stern complaints. 'It is originating from a music festival near SoFi Stadium, scheduled from 2pm - 11pm today and tomorrow,' officials continued. 'There is no need to call 911 to report.' Hours before, one user asked aloud on Reddit: 'Is there anything anyone can do? Or are we all f**ked until 11p tonight, and 10pm tomorrow?' 'Where is it coming from? It's so annoying,' asked another, apparently unaware of what was going on. The commotion, nonetheless, continued - to the forecasted 11pm. A little over an hour later, Karen Forshay, a producer-journalist who lives in LA, also 'Who else in LA is hearing the Hard Summer techno event at Hollywood Park/ SoFi? 'Residents from Manhattan Beach to Marina del Rey to Ladera have been hearing it for ten hours. he commotion, nonetheless, continued - leading to complaints for three straight days 'I like techno music, but this is nuts,' the showrunner concluded. 'I can't imagine what people [in] Inglewood are dealing with.' But the complaints came mostly from cities to the north, where rents are higher and residents are richer. 'How is it legal for that festival to be so loud?' one such person asked. 'I can hear it from the beach. wtf?' The next day, complaints continued to pile in - with a Reddit user by the name Nice_Calligrapher427 leading the was. 'Okay this is just bonkers,' the apparent LA citizen wrote. 'This dumb 'Hard Summer Music Festival' at Sofi has been blasting away all day, and people 4-7 miles away can feel the bass from it and hear the terrible music. 'It was happening yesterday, and its going to happen tomorrow,' he continued. 'If you also can't stand it, please consider dropping a line to complain to the Inglewood PD... and also share your feedback with your Councilperson and the Mayor.' As the outdoor event progressed, complaints continued to pile in, spurring some to advise others to complain to local police departments A number for the police department was provided, as well as a stream of pointed replies. Many blamed the noise on the fact that the outdoor venue had no walls, allowing the sounds to reverberate throughout LA County. Others cited how their own walls 'were vibrating.' One such person wrote: 'Anyone else hearing the non stop techno beats all afternoon yesterday, get ready for more as the festival heads into their second day. Are you hearing it? How far away are you? 'I live 8.5 miles away and I thought for sure it was my neighbor.' Another Reddit user, ausgoals, pointed out how many residents were way closer than those complaining - as several apartment buildings and houses were within a few blocks of the outdoor venue. 'There's literally apartments on the other side of the car park,' they wrote. 'Seems excessive.' One slightly closer X user claimed: 'We're near 4 miles, at the intersection of Manchester & La Tijera. It's ridiculous. The bass just reverberates through the wood framed homes. Attendees of this event will have permanent hearing damage. ... It's impossible not to.' The festival went on to finish its third and final day on Sunday, with artists like Nelly Furtado, Sofi Tukker, Disclosure, and Bunt performing Loud music and vibrating bass was the result - all in the style of electronic, house, and techno genres, and hip-hop and dubstep as well The five-stage festival was held right outside SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, and welcomed around 70,000 The festival went on to finish its third and final day on Sunday, before which Sgt. Russel Patton of El Segundo around noon said they had received no further complaints. The days festivities, however, did not start until two hours later - leaving room for more online protests. I assumed someone at my apartment was having a party upstairs, one person wrote. Never have I heard anything like this.' The festival concluded at 10pm. Tommy Robinson has seized on Elon Musk's tweet taunting Sir Keir Starmer about grooming gangs, amid a worsening war of words between the social media billionaire and the Prime Minister over race-riots that have broken out across the UK. The English Defence League founder - whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon -suggested that there are groups of Asian men abusing children 'in every town and city' in response to Musk posting a picture of a newspaper front page from 2014. Showing 10-year-old reporting on the horrific Rotherham child abuse gangs, Musk, 53, asked his 193 million-strong following 'is this still happening' in a post where he also tagged Keir Starmer. It comes amid escalating tensions between the inflammatory X owner and the Prime Minister, as the magnate has been accused of stoking tensions in tinderbox Britain. And it marks the latest move from Robinson, 41, who has been widely condemned for stoking the far-right race riots from the safety of a sun lounger at a five-star hotel in Cyprus, while on holiday with family and friends. Musk today repeatedly goaded Starmer by accusing the PM of presiding over 'one-sided' policing - even using the hashtag 'TwoTierKeir' in a tweet to 196million people. The billionaire has hit back repeatedly at the Labour leader in a row over his claim that Britain is on the brink of an 'inevitable' civil war because of migration. Musk also compared the UK to the Soviet Union because of arrests over what people have been saying on Facebook as riots break out across the UK. Downing Street rebuked Elon Musk, the owner of X, for using his platform to claim that 'civil war is inevitable' - so the billionaire has hit back again Robinson, 41, has been widely condemned for stoking the far-right race riots from the safety of a sun lounger at a five-star hotel in Cyprus, while on holiday with family and friends A man is pictured wearing a mask showing the Union Jack as hundreds of far-right wing extremists rioted and attacked police at a Holiday Inn Express hotel accommodating asylum seekers in Rotherham A police car is set on fire by rioters on the streets of Hartlepool in response to the fatal stabbings in Southport He even shared a Family Guy meme and joked that Britain might bring back the death penalty for social media posts that offend politicians. Posting an image of Peter Griffin in the electric chair he said: 'In 2030 for making a Facebook comment that the UK government didn't like'. He also retweeted a meme showing armed police confronting a woman over her social media messages, adding: 'Sounds like that is the UK today'. This morning a Labour minister called out Elon Musk's 'deplorable' claim that civil war in the UK is around the corner, as he was accused of stoking tensions in tinderbox Britain. Hitting back this afternoon the billionaire posted a video of a gang in balaclavas waving Palestine flags storming The Clumsy Swan in Birmingham, where windows were smashed and drinkers were attacked last night. Musk tweeted footage of the pub attack and tagged the Prime Minister with the caption: 'Why aren't all communities protected in Britain, Keir Starmer?' He also pinned it to his profile so it is the first thing his 193million followers see when on his page. Commenting on the police operation, West Midlands Police Superintendent Emlyn Richards rejected the claims, saying: 'I don't think it's helpful at this moment in time. 'However, people have that right to express their opinions and that's what Mr Musk has done. What I would say in respect of two-tier policing, is it doesn't exist in the West Midlands - we are here to police without fear or favour.' Minutes earlier the Tesla boss also shared a video of a Exeter man believed to be named Thomas Dunne being arrested recently after a complaint made about his comments on social media. Musk shared it to launch another attack on the UK and said: 'Arrested for making comments on Facebook! Is this Britain or the Soviet Union?' Elon joked that the UK Government could execute people for Facebook posts they don't like, sharing a Family Guy meme Elon retweeted a meme showing armed police confronting a woman over her social media messages, adding: 'Sounds like that is the UK today' Musk shared this video from Birmingham of a pub being attacked by a gang with Palestinian flags The billionaire also shared a video of a man being arrested over Facebook posts Sir Keir Starmer and Downing Street last night hit out at the billionaire for suggesting 'civil war is inevitable' following days of rioting fuelled by disinformation on social media after the deaths of three little girls in Southport last week. Asked about Mr Musk's comments today, Justice minister Heidi Alexander told BBC Breakfast 'everyone should be calling for calm' and that Musk in particular 'has a responsibility given the huge platform he has, and so, to be honest, I think his comments are pretty deplorable'. The Prime Minister's spokesman yesterday said there was 'no justification for comments like that', prompting Mr Musk to reply directly by responding to a video posted by the PM stressing attacks on mosques and Muslims would not be tolerated. The mogul, who is the richest man in the world with more than $200billion and has 193million followers on X, asked Sir Keir: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities?' Overnight he then responded to a cartoon featuring offensive caricatures of two men, one wearing a headband featuring the flag of Pakistan, holding a knife, alongside a police officer with the caption: 'We are here to protect you.' Underneath is a man saying: 'I don't want my children to get stabbed', while a police officer accuses him of being a 'Nazi'. The user who posted the cartoon wrote 'The UK police are compromised' - to which Musk responded: 'Does seem one-sided'. So-called 'two tier policing' is a claim often used by the far-right to imply that police treat certain groups of people in different ways. Elon Musk hit out at the UK's police last night as he responded to an offensive cartoon He added: 'We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities.' In response, Mr Musk wrote: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities?' Musk had earlier replied to a tweet by right-wing commentator Ashley St Clair, who said far-right rioting was down to 'the effects of mass migration', by suggesting 'civil war is inevitable' Ms Alexander attacked Mr Musk again in a separate interview this morning. She told Times Radio: 'I agree with what the spokesperson on behalf of the Prime Minister was saying yesterday. I do think these comments are unjustifiable. 'If you have got a platform, a large social media platform, then you have also got a responsibility. 'I think it is deeply irresponsible, I think everyone should be appealing for calm. 'Use of language such as a 'civil war' is in no way acceptable. We are seeing police officers being seriously injured, buildings set alight, and so I really do think that everyone who has a platform should be exercising their power responsibly.' The clash came as Cabinet ministers blamed social media for allowing hate and fake news to be spread, leading to violent riots by the far-Right that have seen migrant hotels and mosques attacked in the wake of the Southport stabbings a week ago. False claims spread rapidly on X and other social media platforms that the suspect was a Muslim asylum seeker who arrived in the UK by boat a year previously. In fact the 17-year-old suspect was born in Cardiff and has no known links to Islam. Last night hundreds of far-Right activists and anti-racist protesters came face-to-face in Plymouth, where beer bottles, flares and a crutch were flung through the air, leaving police officers injured. Violence erupted again in Belfast last night amid ongoing rioting around the UK The clash came as Cabinet ministers blamed social media for allowing hate and fake news to be spread, leading to violent rioting by the far-Right that have seen migrant hotels and mosques attacked in the wake of the Southport stabbings a week ago. Pictured: Far-right protesters in Plymouth on Monday night Police were out in force and detained far-right protesters in Plymouth on Monday night The violence has seen damage to homes, businesses, hotels and even a library Ministers have said X has helped stoke online hate and refused to delete racist comments while allowing controversial activists such as Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate back on the platform. Pictured: Protesters in Plymouth And in Birmingham a Sky News van was attacked by a knife-wielding man after members of the Muslim community gathered amid claims far-Right groups would target the Small Heath area. Luke Tryl, director of the society think tank More in Common, said: Elon Musk, who is without doubt one of the most influential people in the world, is not only failing to take action on his platform to tackle this stuff but, in fact, seems to be dabbling with some of these conspiracy theories, suggesting that the UK is headed towards civil war, criticising Keir Starmer. I think that is a deeply concerning position to be in and I do think Keir Starmer and No 10 have no option but to push back very robustly on it because this is a man who essentially has the power and influence of a head of state, given how wealthy he is and given Xs reach. Its a pretty extraordinary situation and I think its something weve got to confront and deal with in the months and years ahead. But the Conservative minister who was responsible for introducing the landmark law aimed at tackling illegal content on social media, the Online Safety Act, said the Government should not be criticising Mr Musk. Former Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan told GB News: I think what Keir Starmer has done is hes got it wrong by just lurching and attacking Elon Musk. Actually, there are people out there on X and other platforms that are inciting violence and encouraging this to take place, and theyre the people that need to be stopped. Whilst we need to protect free speech, and people can have opinions and they can differ, we shouldnt be inciting and encouraging violence. Ms Donelan said ministers should have got all of the social media platforms in and asked them what their policies were and how intelligence could be shared rather than just going off on one at Elon Musk. She went on: The reality is Keir Starmer is more interested in grandstanding and making these jabs than actually acting and trying to deal with the problem at the root. BIRMINGHAM: Men gesture to the camera as they stand on a roundabout amid rumours of a far-right gathering PLYMOUTH: Police form a barrier separating protesters in the city as tensions simmer PLYMOUTH: A man yells at counter-protesters as riot police separate the groups to avoid conflict PLYMOUTH: An anti-immigration protester clashes with anti-racism protesters in Plymouth tonight PLYMOUTH: A man faces an anti-racism protester during tense stand-offs in Plymouth SOUTHPORT: In contrast to riots across the country, locals turned out in Southport to lay flowers and teddies and blow bubbles Police have also been warned of alleged plans by far-Right groups to hit dozens of immigration targets across Britain on Wednesday night. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper yesterday said social media has put 'rocket boosters' under such groups. Health Secretary Wes Streeting warned that the spread of disinformation online is 'an existential threat to democracy'. He told the Edinburgh Fringe festival: 'We've got to wake up, not just as Britain but as democracies collectively, to what is actually a threat to our democracy, to our national security, to trust in politics, which is already kind of rock bottom anyway.' And Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: 'Responsibility for harmful social media content principally rests with the individuals and groups who create it. 'But it is undeniable that social media has provided a platform for this hate.' He held individual meetings with bosses from US-based X, Facebook, Google and TikTok yesterday to make clear their responsibility to 'stop the spread of hateful misinformation and incitement'. No 10 said action taken by the firms so far has not gone far enough. 'There is more that they can and should be doing,' Sir Keir's spokesman said. HUDDERSFIELD: Shops in Huddersfield closed early as claims of a planned protest in the town spread on social media PLYMOUTH: A man is handcuffed and led away by a police officer PLYMOUTH: Police detain a protester as earlier clashes began to turn ugly BIRMINGHAM: Pubgoers screamed as protesters faced off against a man outside - before he was kicked to the floor BIRMINGHAM: Some protesters donned masks to stand on the roundabout - as many have in the riots seen in recent days BIRMINGHAM: Young men, some in masks, gathered outside a McDonald's in Bordesley Green, Birmingham amid rumours of a far-right gathering After the first emergency Cobra meeting about the riots, Downing Street also put online agitators on notice that they will be brought to justice alongside the rioters themselves. 'Anyone who is guilty of criminal behaviour online, anyone who is whipping up violence online, will face the full force of law.' The landmark Online Safety Act passed by the previous government will mean tech giants face multi-million pound fines if they fail to protect users from illegal content such as messages provoking hatred, disorder or violence. But the duties on the firms will not come into force for several months, as regulator Ofcom is still consulting on its codes of practice and guidance. However, the watchdog said platforms can act now rather than waiting for the law to come into force. X has been accused of refusing to delete racist comments while allowing controversial activists such as Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate back on the platform. The false claim that a Muslim asylum seeker was the suspect in the Southport stabbings was first made on X by a British woman before going viral when it was spread by Russia-linked fake news website Channel3 Now. And, as the Mail revealed, English Defence League founder Mr Robinson was stoking the race riots with a series of video rants on X while he was on holiday in Cyprus. But Mr Musk himself has made at least ten comments about the riots mostly replying to other users and thereby massively increasing their reach. Mr Musk used his X social media site, formerly known as Twitter, on Sunday to reply to a post that blamed 'mass migration and open borders' for unrest in the UK After a prominent account posted a video of rioters setting off fireworks at police and a Right-wing commentator blamed mass migration, Mr Musk replied: 'Civil war is inevitable.' Asked about the remark, Sir Keir's spokesman said: 'There's no justification for comments like that. 'And what we've seen is organised violent thuggery that has no place on our streets or online.' Yesterday Sir Keir posted a video condemning the violence and warning that criminal justice will be 'ramped up'. He added: 'We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities.' In response, Mr Musk wrote, in a comment that received 70,000 likes and 12,000 reposts in three hours: 'Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on communities?' The X owner also agreed that UK police 'seem one-sided' in response to a cartoon accusing officers of going soft on violent Islamists. And he added: 'If incompatible cultures are brought together without assimilation, conflict is inevitable.' Expert on online disinformation Dr Marc Owen Jones said: 'Musk is definitely fanning the flames he is clearly contributing to the problem.' X did not respond to requests to comment. A curious great white shark came close to a research diver off the coast of Massachusetts while feeding on a whale carcass. A team of divers for the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy (AWSC) were viewing white sharked feed off the coast of Scituate - between Boston and Cap Cod - when one shark came along to say hello a few weeks ago, a video posted to X shows. The shark approached one of the divers and came so close to the cameras that viewers could see its lunch hanging from its mouth. The shark then gently circled around a bit, allowing the divers to view the 'unique markings along its face.' There's been five great white sharks spotted off the coast of Cape Cod and one near Boston not far from Scituate within the last 48 hours, according to the AWSC's Sharktivity map. A team of divers for the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy (AWSC) were viewing white sharked feed off the coast of Scituate - between Boston and Cap Cod - when one shark came along to say hello a few weeks ago The shark then gently circled around a bit, allowing the divers to view the 'unique markings along its face' A dozen more have been seen between Boston and the Cap in the last 30 days, including a few right off the coast of Scituate. Cape Cod became a shark hotspot in the last 15 years due to warming waters and a rise in the seal population, with peak activity hitting around August and early Fall. However, Cape Cod swimmers aren't rushing to avoid enjoying the coastal waters. 'Until we see someone get hurt by a shark, we probably won't change our habits,' Charles Washburn, who regularly swims in the ocean, told the Boston Globe. 'If it's my time, it's my time,' Sophie Walker, of Brewster, told the outlet. The shark approached one of the divers and came so close to the cameras that viewers could see its lunch hanging from its mouth Beach towns along both coasts of the US have enhanced their shark spotting capabilities by employing drones and planes, having lifeguards keep an eye out, and using colored flags to warn swimmers. The National Seashore has prohibited swimming up to 33 times in recent summers due to sharks getting a little too close for comfort, according to The Globe. The last time the Cape has seen a fatal attack was in 2018, when a 26-year-old was killed at Newcomb Beach. However, on the West Coast, a California surfer had a terrifying encounter with a great white that nearly turned fatal. Michael 'Jared' Trainor, 33, was catching waves off a remote Ferndale beach in October 2022, when his 'worst nightmare' became a reality. Michael 'Jared' Trainor, 33, was catching waves off a remote Ferndale beach in October 2022, when his 'worst nightmare' became a reality (pictured next to his surf board that the shark took a bite out of) Trainor was suddenly launched into the air by a massive 16 feet long great white shark, weighing over 1,000 pounds, that was lurking beneath the surface Trainor was suddenly launched into the air by a massive 16-foot-long great white shark, weighing more than 1,000 pounds, that was lurking beneath the surface. Trainor, a serious and experienced surfer, was dragged underwater by the shark, which began feasting on his right leg. 'As I went onto the board and started paddling, almost instantly, I was hit,' he said. 'It appeared that it [the shark] came up and pushed my left leg up into the air and latch onto my right leg and board.' 'I was lucky that the board was pinned beneath the lower jaw,' he told Fox News Digital. 'The last thing I remember was looking back at the beach and seeing where my dogs were and, when I came to, I opened my eyes underwater, and I could see the surface of the water, and I could just see this large black silhouette.' The then-31-year-old man survived the shark attack by grabbing the shark's body with one hand and kicking the shark with his uninjured leg until the beast let him go and swam away. Moon's Rare Books is more than a bookstore - it's a time capsule disguised as a shop. With its 200-year-old French brick floor, a relic of the Napoleonic era, the store is a living testament to history, and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. Historian Reid Moon, the stores encyclopedic owner and curator, breathes life into ordinary objects. His passion for storytelling transforms the shop into a living, thousand-year-old library amidst the modern allure of The Shops at Riverwoods in Provo, Utah. 'There are about 5,000 items in the store,' Moon told The Salt Lake Tribune. 'Our specialty is printing press forward, so [the] past 500 [to] 600 years.' The space is a bibliophile's dream, from first editions of Jane Austen to movie props like Harry Potter's robes and Thor's hammer, the store is a captivating blend of literature and pop culture. Moon's Rare Books is more than a bookstore; it's a time capsule disguised as a shop Reid Moon, the stores encyclopedic owner, curator, and historian, breathes life into ordinary objects. His passion for storytelling transforms the shop into a living, thousand-year-old library amidst the modern allure of The Shops at Riverwoods in Provo, Utah Showcased in frequently updated display cases are a JFK-signed pamphlet, Conan Doyle's pipe, a first edition 'Grimm's Fairy Tales,' and Houdini's handcuffs. Even a 14-pound chunk of the Berlin Wall, acquired with a special export permit, finds a home here. The children's section is a whimsical contrast, housing Charles Dickens' original writing desk where 'A Tale of Two Cities' was penned. Moon's passion for sharing his collection extends beyond the store's walls. With over 3 million followers on TikTok and Instagram, he introduces a younger generation who 'aren't collecting books like previous generations, because everything's digital.' In an age dominated by digital content, Moon's success lies in his ability to tell captivating stories. 'People love a story. People are fascinated with stories. People will sit down and listen to a good story all day long. A good story beats anything you can see on TV,' he said. 'That's kind of in my byline it's Reid Moon: storyteller I tell the history of the world through books.' Bookstores have been a family business, said Reid. When books started becoming digital, instead of fighting the change, Reid transitioned to 'used and rare' books. The children's section is a whimsical contrast, housing Charles Dickens' original writing desk where 'A Tale of Two Cities' was penned Showcased in frequently updated display cases are a JFK-signed pamphlet, Conan Doyle's pipe, a first edition 'Grimm's Fairy Tales,' and Houdini's handcuffs. Even a 14-pound chunk of the Berlin Wall, acquired with a special export permit, finds a home here The store's crown jewel is the back room, a temperature-controlled vault brimming with literary and historical significance. 'When people come into this back room, we tell them, name any person, place, event, anything that's happened in the history of the world since the printing press, and we have something that ties to it with no more than one degree of separation,' Moon said. 'Every book, to be in the back room, it has to have a story.' For an hour, a limited group of 25 guests can immerse themselves in a world of rare artifacts and captivating stories. Tickets for these unique experiences are available for purchase, with all proceeds benefiting Generations Humanitarian, a nonprofit dedicated to aiding street children in countries like Venezuela. A 'Where's Waldo'-style game challenges visitors to spot specific items among the countless treasures. From a handwritten Quran to a law ledger belonging to Alexander Hamilton, the back room is a historian's paradise. Moon's collection of first edition Book of Mormons is particularly impressive, including copies owned by Joseph Smith's brothers. Moon's passion for sharing his collection extends beyond the store's walls. With over 3 million followers on TikTok and Instagram, he introduces a younger generation who 'aren't collecting books like previous generations, because everything's digital' For an hour, a limited group of 25 guests can immerse themselves in a world of rare artifacts and captivating stories in the temperature-controlled back vault He believes these artifacts should be shared and accessible, and he often invites Latter-day Saint missionaries to experience them firsthand. 'It's not too late to start reading again,' said Moon. 'People are just so used to sitting in front of a screen and being entertained. But your own imagination and what you visualize when you read surpasses anything that you can see online.' 'I hope I'm still doing this in 20 years, because I'm not retiring.' The SNP has been accused of putting the public at risk with a shameful long-term neglect of policing after officer numbers hit a record low. Police Scotland had 16,207 officers at the end of last month, down by 1,000 in just three years. It was the smallest number since records began in 2007, when the SNP came to power. Scotlands police strength was previously at its weakest in March 2008, when there were the equivalent of 16,222 full-time officers. Opposition parties warned that if the rioting seen south of the Border spread north the thin blue line will look very thin indeed. The number of serving Police Scotland officers has plunged to a record low The new low followed a quarterly loss of 150 officers from the 16,356 in post in March. SNP justice secretary Angela Constance said she was disappointed the force hadnt started a planned recruitment drive sooner, insisting the issue was short-term. Scottish Conservative justice spokesman Russell Findlay said: This is further damning evidence of the SNPs shameful long-term neglect of policing in Scotland. Allowing officer numbers to plummet to a record low will only make our streets less safe. The Scottish Conservatives are committed to reversing the damaging decline. The SNP took office in 2007 with a promise to recruit 1,000 extra officers. Alex Salmonds manifesto said at the time: We believe that this more visible police presence will reassure communities and deter the criminals. The pledge was met after two years when the number hit 17,234. But ministers dropped the commitment to maintain this level at the 2016 election. The Scottish Police Federation, which represents the rank and file, recently warned the service was being asset stripped and basically used as a cash cow by ministers. Vice-chairman Brian Jones said: As numbers continue to fall, we will say again, We cannot do more with less. Chief constable Jo Farrell briefs officers before going out on patrol in Glasgow city centre in May Dwindling numbers of serving officers lead to fears communities are at risk Our added concern surrounds the number of officers who are currently off sick, coupled with those who are not deployable, undoubtedly as a consequence of the additional burdens being placed upon them on a consistent basis. LibDem justice spokesperson Liam McArthur MSP urged SNP ministers to get serious over the funding challenges facing policing. Mr McArthur said: There are no two ways about it, plummeting officer numbers put communities at greater risk. If the civil unrest that we have seen in other parts of the UK spreads to Scotland, the thin blue line will look very thin indeed. It is no wonder that policing bodies are warning of a public safety crisis.. Its time for the Scottish Government to listen and commit to resourcing the service properly. Responding for Police Scotland, Deputy Chief Constable Alan Speirs said: We have set out plans to recruit over 1300 new officers in 2024/25, the highest number Police Scotland has recruited in a single year. Last month, we welcomed over 250 new probationary constables into Police Scotland and our officer strength is now around 16,400. The Chief Constable has been clear that increasing officer numbers is a focus and, at the same time, we are pressing change that strengthens the frontline by redirecting resources or delivering efficiencies. Scotland has roughly 30 officers per 10,000 people compared to 25 in England and Wales. Ms Constance said: I am disappointed with these figures as our record police funding of 1.55 billion this year enabled Police Scotland to restart recruitment and increase officer numbers. Police Scotland is set to take on more recruits this year than at any time since 2013 and they have stated that current officer numbers are about 16,400. Scotland continues to have more police officers per capita than England and Wales and they are the best paid at all levels. After two weeks of backs-to-the-wall defense, with their VP pick J.D. Vance in the firing line and acres of newsprint celebrating Joe Biden's decision to step aside, the Trump campaign couldn't believe its luck when Kamala Harris finally plumped for Tim Walz, a governor little known outside his home state of Minnesota. Insiders say it gives them the chance to get back on offense after weathering a difficult two weeks. 'Thank you,' was Donald Trump's two-word verdict on Truth Social. Behind the scenes, his allies could not hide their jubilation that Harris picked a governor with a liberal voting record from a state that has been solidly Democratic since 1972. They quickly went on the attack, chewing over his voting record and the way that Minnesota was rocked by Black Lives Matter protests in 2020. Vice President Kamala Harris announced Tuesday that Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota will be her running mate. The decision cheered Trump allies who have been on the back foot Their fear had been that she would lock up the crucial swing state of Pennsylvania by plumping for its centrist governor, Josh Shapiro. 'Instead of picking the candidate with charisma and a moderate record, Kamala caved to the Hamas caucus and picked a charisma black hole with a long record of supporting extreme liberal policies and a history of being close to China,' said a source close to the Trump campaign, before making a comparison with Hillary Clinton's losing 2016 ticket. 'Walz is Tim Kaine all over again, he adds nothing to the ticket.' The Trump campaign needed a fillip. After making the running all year, building potentially decisive leads in several swing states, it suddenly found itself under fire. Trump may have survived an assassination attempt and brought the party together at its convention in Milwaukee, but the good times ended when Biden finally announced his decision to step aside last month. That decision did not usher in weeks of Democratic infighting as they had hoped. Instead Democrats united behind Vice President Harris, and turned its attention to Vance, the MAGA loyalist selected as Trump's running mate. His busy history of fiery TV interviews and incendiary social media posts provided fodder for attack ads and negative headlines. Trump allies said they were shocked that Harris did not pick Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro Trump himself responded with a two-word post on his Truth Social website Meanwhile money poured into Harris from donors who had been reluctant to back Biden. Even the polls turned her way. An average maintained by the FiveThirtyEight statistics site now puts her in the lead over Trump by 45.5 percent to 43.5 percent. David Urban, a Trump confidant whose base is Pennsylvania, said the real race begins now and described it as 'political malpractice' for Harris not to pick Shapiro. 'He was the best political athlete in this draft class,' said Urban, who has known the governor for years. Rather than a running mate who could help win the most important state in this year's contest, he said she had picked 'the progressives' wet dream.' And she had provided the Trump campaign with perfect chance to draw a line under the two weeks of missed opportunities and turbulence since Biden stepped aside. 'Today ends marks the end of that period,' he said. 'Today begins reality for the now Harris-Walz ticket, the most progressive ticket in the United States since maybe Mondale-Ferraro.' That pairing lost in a landslide to Reagan-Bush in 1984. Vance himself was back on offense Tuesday, showing a spring in his step after two weeks of defending his own record. 'They make an interesting tag team because Tim Walz allowed rioters to burn down Minneapolis in the summer of 2020, and the few that got caught, Kamala Harris helped bail them out of jail,' he told reporters traveling with him on his plane, Trump Force Two. A young girl has lost her life following a horseback riding accident at her home in Georgia. Emily Buddin, 9, was rushed to hospital where she died following the incident at her family's home in Reseca on July 25. According to a GoFundMe that has been set up to help her family, local police, fire crews and ambulance crews battled to save her live following the incident. Her father Brian has since hit out at the fundraiser made for his daughter, which has raised over $16,000, saying his name was removed from the beneficiaries. Airing out his grievances on Facebook, Brian asked those who had donated money specifically to him to contact him so he could try claim it back. Emily Buddin, 9, was rushed to hospital following the incident at her family's home in Reseca on July 25 Her family, local police, fire crews and ambulance crews battled to save her live following the incident. She is seen here with her mom Rebecca He said: 'Friends and family thank you for the out pouring of support over the last week. 'We have been overwhelmed by the love, kind words and prayers. Its been brought to my attention that the go fund me has been changed to just Emilys mom. 'Any money that is or has been sent to that for me will not be making its way to me. I did not set up the account and I have no say so over what is happening with it. 'If you have sent money to me thru it please shoot me a message and Ill see if I can do something about retrieving it.' Emily's obituary described her as having a 'heart of pure gold' and being 'fearless, independent, and beautiful in every way. It added: 'Her energy could light even the darkest room. She inspired her entire community through her determination to be the best barrel racer she could be. 'Her sibling are her world and she mothered them with the best of intentions no matter their age. 'She was larger than life with a soft voice and an infectious soul lifting laugh. The loss of such a bright light has devastated so many. 'She will be remembered by many through her purple cowgirl hat and in every rainbow. Enjoy the ride cowgirl well see you soon.' Her obituary described her as having a 'heart of pure gold' and being 'fearless, independent, and beautiful in every way Emily is seen here alongside her father Brian and his partner Gennie Since her passing, social media has been flooded with close friends and family paying tribute to the youngster. In a touching tribute, Emily's former horse riding teacher Kellie McNamara described her as being a 'bubbly little girl'. She said: 'It was a pleasure every lesson to watch her fall deeper and deeper in love with western riding. 'Emily was a bubbly little girl that always had a grin ear to ear. Excitement flowed out of her as she ran to the barn every lesson. 'I loved watching Emily grow up in our western community. She was a gritty kid on a black and white pony giving it her all every run. 'Hug your babies tight today and the Buddins in your prayers. Theirs a new angel among us and she wears a purple cowgirl hat.' While another person added: 'little Miss Emily Colleen was the sweetest, kindest, most loving soul. Fearless and strong willed with a beautiful heart. 'There are no words that could ever ease your pain, but we send our deepest condolences and all our love. 'We are forever blessed you allowed us to be a part of your family so many years ago. Rest In Peace Emmy.' Scales Corporation Limited (NZX: SCL ) advises that it will release its Interim Results, for the six months to 30 June 2024, prior to market opening on Wednesday 28 August 2024. This will be followed by a conference call at 10am on the same day. Participants are encouraged to pre-register for the call via the following link: https://s1.c-conf.com/diamondpass/10039715-sgr43c.html Participants will receive the dial-in number, passcode and PIN upon registration, allowing direct entry to the call. A calendar invitation will also be emailed. We recommend dialing in 10 minutes prior to the scheduled call time. Contact: Steve Kennelly Chief Financial Officer Scales Corporation Limited +64 3 371 2263 / +64 274 317587 About Scales Corporation Scales Corporation is a diversified agribusiness group. It comprises three operating divisions: Global Proteins, Horticulture and Logistics. The companys diverse spread of activities gives Scales broad exposure to the agribusiness sector. Scales Corporation was founded in 1897 as a shipping business by George Scales. Today it has operations across New Zealand, Australia, United States and Europe. Find out more at www.scalescorporation.co.nz Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: TRU - WHO Agency UNITAID Features TRU in Tech Landscape Report PaySauce Quarterly Market Update - September 2024 October 2nd Morning Report Rua Releases Annual Report for Year Ended 30 June 2024 SCL - Settlement of orchard sales The Warehouse Group 2024 ASM and Director Nominations AIR - Update on Chief Operational Integrity and Safety Officer Comvita Limited - Annual Report 2024 September 27th Morning Report Spark announces departure of Finance Director A Pakistani man with ties to the Iranian government has been charged with plotting political assassinations that may have targeted Donald Trump. Asif Merchant, 46, is accused of working with an undercover officer posing as a hitman who would carry out the assassinations after travelling to New York. The Department of Justice says his aim was to take out high-ranking U.S. officials in August and September. The investigation was carried out weeks before Trump was shot at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Asif Merchant, 46, is accused of working with a hitman to carry out assassinations after travelling to New York The former president's team had been warned that he had been the potential target of assassination plots with links to Tehran. Iranian officials have publicly expressed their desire to avenge the death of Qasem Soleimani. The threat brought additional security before an unrelated attempted assassination at Donald Trump's campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Merchant was arrested one day before the July 13 rally. Merchant is accused of flying from Pakistan to the U.S. to try and recruit accomplices for his deadly scheme. Merchant also paid $5,000 in cash to an undercover agent after a meeting in Manhattan, according to prosecutors. Prosecutors say Merchant plotted his deadly scheme with scribbles on a napkin Images show the notes he made on one of the napkins, that was retrieved during the investigation Word of the stunning alleged plot follows an unrelated attempt on Trump's life He also paid $5,000 in cash to an undercover agent after a meeting in Manhattan and laid out his plans on a napkin, according to prosecutors. The damning indictment reveals he frequently travelled to Iraq, Syria and Iran. When in the U.S., he contacted a person he believed could help him in his sinister plans. The individual then contacted law enforcement and became a confidential informant. Federal officials said his wife and children lived in Iran, and that he had traveled to Iran, Syria and Iraq. Said AG Merrick Garland in a statement, 'For years, the Justice Department has been working aggressively to counter Iran's brazen and unrelenting efforts to retaliate against American public officials for the killing of Iranian General Soleimani.' 'The Justice Department will spare no resource to disrupt and hold accountable those who would seek to carry out Irans lethal plotting against American citizens and will not tolerate attempts by an authoritarian regime to target American public officials and endanger Americas national security,' he added. The charges come amid new scrutiny on the Secret Service amid what has been deemed a massive security failure after a shooter was able to fire on Trump during his rally last month. Former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle stepped down in the wake of the shooting. It also comes amid fears of a widening conflict in the Middle East, with the Pentagon dispatching additional forces to the region to head off escalation amid expectations Iran will further strike out at Israel and as its proxies continue to fire on U.S. military positions in the region. The charging documents did not mention Trump by name, and sources told ABC potential targets came from both parties. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, asked about the news at her Tuesday briefing, said that based on the ongoing DOJ probe, 'there has been no evidence to suggest that the individual named in today's indictment has any connection to the assassination attempt against former President Trump that happened in Butler Pennsylvania.' 'These threats arise from arise desire to seek revenge for the killing of Qasem Soleimani. We consider this a national and homeland security matter of highest priority, the highest priority,' she said. ''We have repeatedly met at the highest levels of our government to develop and implement a comprehensive response to this to these threats.' Tehran has denied any role in the plot, saying in a statement by Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani last month that Iran 'strongly rejects any involvement in the recent armed attack on Trump or claims about Irans intention for such an action, considering such allegations to have malicious political motives and objectives.' Bosses at Scotlands national gallery have failed to remove a portrait of convicted sex offender from its website. National Galleries of Scotland last night continued to display a photograph of Cameron Downing, who was recently jailed for 10 charges of assault, sexual assault and domestic abuse against five women and two men. Instead of removing the image of the former SNP equalities officer, a trigger warning has been attached to it instead. The warning details Downings conviction, but womens rights campaigners have described the decision to keep the portrait online as an insult to his victims. Caroline McAllister, of feminist group Women Wont Wheesht, said: Theyre sending the message to Downings victims that their ordeal at the hands of this sexual predator is of no consequence to them nor do they have any concern for their wellbeing. Cameron Downing, who identifies as non-binary, was jailed for six years at the High Court in Edinburgh earlier this year Former SNP Equalities Officer Cameron Downing, 24, was found guilty of 10 charges of assault, sexual assault and domestic abuse against five women and two men Their decision to showcase Downing on their website implies art takes precedence over any care towards the victims and wider society. Surely out of respect for the victims and disgust at Downings deviant behaviour they would be eager to remove any reference of him from their website. She added that the trigger warning confirms theyre aware the picture has the potential to cause hurt, fear and alarm to all victims of sexual abuse and urged bosses to do the decent thing and delete all reference to Downing? The image, taken by photographer Craig Waddell, remains prominent on the gallerys official website. Downing, a man who self-identifies as non-binary and elects to use he and they pronouns, is part of the photographers series Masc. The trigger warning added to the page informs viewers that it references cases of sexual assault which you may find distressing. In a statement that follows, bosses explain that Downing was convicted of 10 charges and sentenced to a custodial term of six years. National Galleries Scotland has added a 'trigger warning' to the image But it adds: Although part of the collection, this portrait of Cameron Downing is not on display at any of our galleries and has not been since 2022. There are no plans for this work to go on display. Scottish Conservative shadow constitution, external affairs and culture secretary Meghan Gallacher, however, said: Serious questions must be asked as to why this individual is still being featured on the website of the National Galleries of Scotland. He has been convicted of several serious assaults and a trigger warning will be of little comfort to his victims. She added: The most appropriate thing for the National Gallery to do would be to remove this image from their website as soon as possible. According to the website, the picture is in storage but its inclusion on the website means that, while no longer on public display in a gallery, it is available to an international audience far larger than would have been seen during its period on view. Fiona McAnena, of campaign group Sex Matters, said: If its not fit for display in the gallery, then why is it on the website? A trigger warning is insulting to his victims, and all victims of sexual violence. The National Galleries of Scotland said although part of the national collection we do not plan to exhibit it in our galleries in the future. A spokesman added: Since the conclusion of legal proceedings last month, we have been looking at the online record for this artwork. This has been updated to include an advisory warning, and to reflect that Cameron Downing was convicted of 10 charges including assault, sexual assault, and domestic abuse, and sentenced to a custodial term of six years. They added: While we have a duty to include works from the collection on our website, we will continue to give thought and consideration to this. Downing, who denied the majority of the charges against him but was found guilty by a jury, was previously pictured with former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. A Tennessee Republican was searched by the FBI last Friday, he confirmed on social media. Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., who represents a portion of Nashville, was searched by federal authorities, local outlet WTVF reported Tuesday. Later in the day, the Republican took to social media to reveal that the FBI took his phone to investigate a campaign finance concerns. Ogles had just won his competitive Republican primary election on August 1. The Tennessee representative has previously admitted to making 'mistakes' on his campaign finance disclosures. U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., speaks to supporters after being declared the winner in his Republican primary race Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, in Franklin, Tenn 'It has been widely reported for months that my campaign made mistakes in our initial financial filings,' Ogles posted on X Tuesday after the report of his investigation first broke. 'We have worked diligently with attorneys and reporting experts to correct the errors and ensure compliance going forward.' 'Last Friday, the FBI took possession of my cell phone. It is my understanding that they are investigating the same well-known facts surrounding these filings.' 'I will of course fully cooperate with them, just as I have with the Federal Election Commission,' his statement continued. 'I am confident all involved will conclude that the reporting discrepancies were based on honest mistakes, and nothing more.' An FBI spokesperson told DailyMail.com Tuesday: 'Pursuant to U.S. Department of Justice policy, the FBI can neither confirm nor deny,' the search of Ogles. In May, the Republican filed numerous amended campaign financial reports and admitted he had not personally loaned his campaign $320,000 as he previously reported. Other financial disclosure amendments prompted Ogles to retract claims he made to the Federal Election Commission. 'I am a grassroots representative, and I pledged everything I own to run for the honor of representing Tennessee's Fifth Congressional District,' Ogles said in a May statement. 'That $320,000 pledge comprised several documented assets, including bank and retirement accounts, which I was ready to personally risk for the chance to fight for Middle Tennessee.' 'While we only needed to transfer $20,000, unfortunately, the full amount of my pledge was mistakenly included on my campaign's FEC reports,' his statement said. Ogles' attorney declined to comment on the FBI action to WTVF Tuesday. Ogles celebrates his recent primary victory in Franklin, Tennessee on August 1 with supporters It is unclear currently what the FBI was searching for in their raid on the Republican 'I'm not going to confirm or deny that there was a search warrant issued,' G. Kline Preston IV, the Republican's attorney, told the outlet. Neighbors who live in the remote area near Olges' residence told the TV station they had not seen any unusual activity near the member's home in recent days. Most law enforcement personnel in his home county were not notified of any FBI searches, sources told WTVF. Though one source did disclose to WTVF that the FBI did execute a search warrant within the county recently. The Republican's office and U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Tennessee did not immediately respond to DailyMail.com's request for comment. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is basking in newfound Democratic unity, remarking that it's 'really kind of nuts' both her and centrist Sen. Joe Manchin approve of Kamala Harris' VP pick. Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to be her running mate following days of anticipation. The 60-year-old father-of-two is a former U.S. congressman, school teacher and served more than two decades in the Army National Guard. He was seen as a more liberal pick than fellow frontrunner Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro. But Walz is surprisingly unifying among more centric Democrats and the progressive left. 'It's really kind of nuts. I am trying to think about the last time Senator Manchin and I, respectfully, were on the same side of an issue,' she said on Instagram Live on Tuesday. Manchin, who left the Democratic Party to become an Independent last year and regularly butts heads with AOC, also praised Walz. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is basking in the newfound Democratic unity, remarking that it's 'really kind of nuts' both her and centrist Sen. Joe Manchin approve of Kamala Harris ' VP pick 'My friend Governor Tim Walz will bring normality back to the most chaotic political environment that most of us have ever seen.' 'I can think of no one better than Governor Walz to help bring our country closer together and bring balance back to the Democratic Party. Governor Walz is the real deal. I look forward to continuing to work with him to bring normalcy back to Washington,' Manchin went on. Ocasio-Cortez, meanwhile, called Walz an 'excellent decision.' 'Dems in disconcerting levels of array' she wrote on X earlier. 'It's really kind of nuts. I am trying to think about the last time Senator Manchin and I, respectfully, were on the same side of an issue,' she said on Instagram Live on Monday As governor, Walz codified the right to abortion, signed universal free school meals, legalized recreational marijuana and gave voting rights to former prisoners. He approved legislation to allow illegal immigrants to have drivers' licenses. He is a close ally of the LGBTQ+ community, serving as a faculty advisor to the first gay-straight alliance at the high school when he was a teacher and later as governor with efforts to ban 'conversion therapy' for youths in the state. Walz likes to tout health care access in his state. His administration has implemented drug pricing transparency requirements and reached a deal with Eli Lilly to cap insulin prices in the state. Harris announced she had picked Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, as her running mate on Tuesday morning The 60-year-old is credited with being the person who started the trend of calling Republicans 'weird' for their actions and policies. On July 23, Walz appeared on MSNBC. It's believed to be how 'weird' took off nationally with everyone from the vice president to Democratic pundits jumping in. 'We do not like what has happened, when you cant even go to Thanksgiving dinner with your uncle because you end up in some weird fight that is unnecessary,' Walz said. 'Well, its true. These guys are just weird.' Republicans have already seized on his liberal leanings. Last month, Walz pushed back that Democrats should not shy away from progressive values. 'One persons socialism is another persons neighborliness,' he said. A student nurse 'scouted out' babies at a neonatal unit before trying to snatch a premature child while on placement, a court heard yesterday. Safia Ihmadei plotted to kidnap the newborn after taking a 'particular interest' in the baby and quizzing the infant's mother on their 'racial heritage', jurors were told. The 36-year-old is alleged to have repeatedly walked into the ward at New Cross Hospital, in Wolverhampton, despite being told to leave and even returned after being suspended. When police were called and searched her, they found she was carrying baby clothes and a comforter, the court heard. More baby clothes still with shop tags on, a passport and 1,500 cash were found in her car, it was alleged. Seamran Sidhu, prosecuting, said there was no reason for Ihmadei to have any baby clothes, adding: 'The items further support the assertion [she] had an intention to take the baby.' The 36-year-old is alleged to have repeatedly walked into the ward at New Cross Hospital, in Wolverhampton, despite being told to leave and even returned after being suspended Ms Sidhu said: 'You will hear in this trial about how she bought items ready for when she had the baby... how she attended the unit on a number of occasions, initially to scout out and find a baby to take and then when she had done that, she returned to find a way to get that baby out of the ward. 'But for the actions and intervention of the nurses and the parents of the baby, she would have succeeded in taking that baby.' The court was told that Ihmadei, a first-year student at Wolverhampton University, was on placement at the hospital but not in the midwifery department so had no reason at all to be there. She was seen on a number of occasions visiting the ward and looking at babies and acting suspiciously on February 13, before focusing on one child in particular, Ms Sidhu said. The prosecutor added: 'She asked the mother a number of questions about her baby... about whether the baby was Muslim and of Pakistani heritage. 'She also asked [her] about the baby's feeding and sleep- ing arrangements.' About five hours later, Ihmadei is alleged to have returned to the ward and was found next to the baby's cot, the court was told. Safia Ihmadei plotted to kidnap the newborn after taking a 'particular interest' in the baby and quizzing the infant's mother on their 'racial heritage', jurors were told. Pictured: Wolverhampton Crown Court Ihmadei told a nurse who challenged her that she had been bringing blankets for the infant but she was asked to leave the ward, the court heard. She returned 15 minutes later and was again asked to leave, only to come back just minutes later accompanied by a man. Ms Sidhu said: '[He] was her partner and she just wanted to look at the baby. They were both told to leave.' Ihmadei was suspended and told she should not go to her hospital placement, but that did not stop her, she added. Ihmadei returned to the hospital two hours later, wearing a red coat on top of her uniform in an alleged attempt to 'go under the radar', Ms Sidhu said. The baby's mother spotted her and began to confront her before nurses intervened and police were called, Wolverhampton Crown Court heard. Officers searched Ihmadei and discovered baby clothes and other items which could help her flee with the child if needed, Ms Sidhu said. More clothing with shop tags on, a baby changing bag, soft toys and baby bedding were found at her home, the court heard. Ihmadei, from Wolverhampton, denies attempting to kidnap a child between February 12 and 14. The trial continues. Five Just Stop Oil supporters have been remanded to prison after being arrested near Manchester Airport earlier this week. Daniel Knorr, 22, Margaret Reid, 53, Ella Ward, 21, Noah Crane, 19, and Indigo Rumbelow, 30, were arrested on Monday in connection with a plot to disrupt passengers at Manchester Airport. They were found to be in possession of items that Greater Manchester Police believed would have been used to 'cause damage and significant disruption to the airport and its operations', the force said. The quintet today appeared at Manchester Magistrates' Court charged with intentionally or recklessly causing public nuisance. The five protesters were all remanded until at least their next appearance on September 10. (Left to right) Indigo Rumbelow, 30, Margaret Reid, 53, Ella Ward, 21, Noah Crane, 19, and Daniel Knorr, 22, were arrested on Monday near Manchester Airport Noah Crane, 18, was also arrested later in the day from an address in Birmingham Four Just Stop Oil protesters have been arrested near Manchester Airport (pictured) in a police swoop Ella, Daniel, Indigo and Margaret were all arrested in the early hours of yesterday morning near Manchester Airport, Just Stop Oil said. Noah was arrested later in the day from an address in Birmingham, after police seized a phone he allegedly purchased on August 3, the group added. Activists from the environmental group have seen their attempts in recent weeks to unleash a 'summer of chaos' at airports across Europe foiled by officers. They have been targeting airports in recent weeks in the campaign named 'Oil Kills'. Just Stop Oil said 21 groups across 12 countries have taken action at 21 airports so far. Speaking before her imprisonment Indigo Rumbelow, 30, from Swansea, said: 'Just Stop Oil supporters have been taking part in an International Uprising for a Fossil Fuel Treaty, because we have an international crisis and we need an international solution. We're in a dangerously hot world and our leaders are hell-bent on making it worse.' 'The climate crisis threatens everything we know and love, yet our so-called leaders are continuing to make the problem worse, the courts are protecting fossil fuel profits and imprisoning those who stand-up to make change, whilst the media is still grappling to tell the truth. AUGUST 1: Just Stop Oil protesters block the security screening area at Heathrow Terminal Five AUGUST 1: Just Stop Oil protesters block the security screening area at Heathrow Terminal Five AUGUST 1: Police officers remove a Just Stop Oil protester at London Heathrow Airport AUGUST 1: Just Stop Oil protesters hold 'Oil Kills' signs as they block the security gates AUGUST 1: Police officers remove a Just Stop Oil protester at London Heathrow Airport 'Many of my friends have been sent to prison, but we will not be deterred. Nothing will stop us trying to protect our families and our communities from the danger imposed on all of us through continued oil, gas and coal burning.' Daniel Knorr, 22, from Oxford said: 'We were not born to stand-by and do nothing whilst hundreds of millions of lives are thrown into the furnace. 'To be human is to care. This is terrifying but we need to be brave. Courage is not the absence of fear, it is to drive forwards towards what's right, despite your fear.' 'We stand to lose everything if our government continues to fuel the climate crisis. It would be completely self defeating to not be in resistance at this time in history. 'Our leaders must enact a Fossil Fuel Treaty to phase down oil and gas if we are to stand any hope.' Noah Crane, 19, from Norwich said: 'When I think about the situation we're in, I realise we are faced with a choice; we can either sit back and watch as governments allow the deaths of hundreds of millions of people to protect profit, or we can do everything in our power to prevent that. When I think about it that way, it's really a no-brainer.' 'I'm not scared of going to prison. What I am scared of is what will happen if we don't act on this crisis. The world is in a position where there is no threat they can make towards me, that outweighs the consequences of inaction.' JULY 30: Phoebe Plummer, 22, and Jane Touil, 58, spray orange paint on departure boards at Heathrow's Terminal Five in another protest at the airport JULY 30: Phoebe Plummer is arrested on suspicion of criminal damage at Heathrow Airport JULY 30: Phoebe Plummer is removed by police at Heathrow after the group's latest stunt JULY 29: Just Stop Oil supporters block departure gates at Gatwick Airport in another protest JULY 29: The seven Just Stop Oil protesters at Gatwick earlier this week were arrested A Just Stop Oil spokesperson said: 'In the wake of the four hottest days in recorded history during the past two weeks, governments are still failing to take action that is commensurate with the scale of the crisis humanity faces. 'Meanwhile, those demanding our leaders take necessary action, are being given increasingly draconian sentences by those in the judiciary who are complicit with the crimes against humanity, being perpetrated by governments and corporations. 'It's time world leaders stood up to fossil capital and enact a fossil fuel treaty to Just Stop Oil by 2030.' Last week, a group of six demonstrators tried to block the security screening zone at London Heathrow's Terminal Five. They sat or stood holding signs saying 'oil kills' and 'sign the treaty' in front of the barriers to enter the area for departing passengers - but they were dragged away by police officers. Britains most senior prosecutor has warned it is deeply disturbing to see children as young as 11 taking part in riots across the country. Stephen Parkinson warned there could be lifelong consequences for young people involved in the violence. The disorder is feared to stretch into a second week tonight, with more than 2,000 officers on stand-by for up to 30 demonstrations. More than 400 people have been arrested so far, with terrorism charges considered for at least one suspected thug. As immigration centres braced themselves for unrest, the war of words deepened between Sir Keir Starmer and Elon Musk yesterday. The billionaire branded the Prime Minister two-tier Keir in a jibe suggesting police were treating far-Right protesters more harshly than Muslims. His comment came just one day after the X owner used the platform to claim that civil war is inevitable in the UK sparking a rebuttal from Downing Street. An 11-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of arson after a police vehicle was set alight during a protest in Hartlepool last week Riot officers on the streets of Hartlepool following a violent protest last week A police officer clashes with a young protestor outside a hotel in Rotherham on Sunday Police in riot gear face off with protesters in Whitehall last week Protesters taunt police in riot gear during a demonstration in Manchester on Saturday Anti-migration protesters riot outside of the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham on Sunday Residential properties and businesses attacked on a street in Middlesbrough on Monday Stephen Parkinson (pictured) warned there could be lifelong consequences for young people involved in the violence Yesterday Mr Parkinson, the director of public prosecutions, said: One of the most striking features of the current outbreak of disorder is that many young people are involved. Children as young as 11. This is deeply disturbing. He warned they risked lifelong consequences including criminal records which could hamper job prospects and the ability to travel abroad. Mr Parkinson added: Justice is coming for those who have rained chaos on their local streets. His comments came as a 14-year-old pleaded guilty to violent disorder after he was caught with a gang shooting fireworks at a crowd. A 15-year-old boy, who appeared in court yesterday, admitted throwing a paving slab at a mans head during riots in Liverpool. Another 15-year-old boy was last night charged after riots broke out in Northern Ireland on Monday night. Amid fears of further unrest today, the Home Secretary Yvette Cooper urged counter-protesters to stay at home and let the police do their jobs. Anti-immigration protesters hold Union Jacks on Weymouth seafront. A counter demo by Stand Up To Racism gathered at the same location further down Young men, some in masks, gathered outside a McDonald's in Bordesley Green, Birmingham amid rumours of a far-right gathering yesterday A man looks out of The Holiday Inn hotel in Rotherham as counter demonstrators stand outside with signs saying 'refugees welcome' Serious violence and rioting by far-right protesters in side streets in Rotherham A young man throws a brick at lines of police in Liverpool, as riots in the city close to the Southport stabbing turned violent on Saturday Police officers stand near the broken windows of the hotel during an anti-immigration protest A car burns after being overturned during an anti-immigration protest in Middlesbrough on Sunday A bin is chucked towards a fire as a group of far right protesters gather in Rotherham on Sunday Counter-protesters push against the police cordon on the day of a protest against illegal immigration in Bolton on Sunday Footage and images of protests over the past week have seen a number of children in attendance, sometimes with their parents. The warning from the CPS' director of public prosecutions comes as: - The PM moved to assure people they will be safe on the streets, despite a difficult situation with simultaneous disorder across the country - It emerged 2,200 specialist riot officers are on standby - An armchair thug, 28, from Leeds became the first convicted of stirring up racial hatred online - It emerged terrorism charges have been considered for at least one protester - Elon Musk labelled Sir Keir Starmer Two-tier Keir in a jibe suggesting police were treating far-right protesters more harshly than Muslims - Officers in Birmingham were forced to defend their tactics after failing to stop a gang of masked Muslims attacking a pub - Officers in South Yorkshire said 51 officers had been injured during an attack on a hotel housing migrants in Rotherham on Sunday - Police warned far-right thugs mistakenly shared the address of an elderly persons home as the site of a protest Advertisement Kate Osborne, Labour MP for Jarrow and Gateshead East, said: It is disturbing to see young kids on the streets chanting racist slogans, calling people names, and worrying that their parents think its okay to indoctrinate their kids this way. The Prime Minister chaired the second COBRA meeting in two days yesterday as forces across the country braced for an eighth night of violence. Sir Keir said afterwards he is expecting substantive sentencing for those taking part in the unrest before the end of this week. Asked what he would say to worried communities, he replied: They will be safe. Were doing everything we can to ensure that where a police response is needed, its in place. Where support is needed for particular places, that is in place. He added: Obviously its a difficult situation with disorder going on in a number of different places at the same time [but] do have adequate police in place. We are able to cope with this disorder. Mr Parkinson said he would continue to prosecute people for online offences related to the violence, including those based abroad. He added: It is important to note that people do not even have to be directly involved to commit crimes inciting violence from your computer is also an offence. Some people are abroad. That doesnt mean theyre safe. We have liaison prosecutors spread around the globe [and] police are also stationed abroad. Justice minister Heidi Alexander said yesterday courts could sit through the night and at weekends to process rioters swiftly. The additional courts protocol, created in the aftermath of the 2011 riots, could be used in areas where police and prosecutors feel necessary. Police officers detain a man on the day of an anti-immigration protest in Bolton on Sunday A car is vandalised as far-right activists hold a demonstration in Middlesbrough on Sunday A phone shop and a kiosk at the Liverpool One shopping complex were damaged, broken into and looted In Hull, a Shoezone was pictured with smashed windows and a raging fire inside, while a Greggs and a Specsavers had also been targeted by men with face coverings throwing stones The additional courts protocol, created in the aftermath of the 2011 riots, could be used in areas where police and prosecutors feel necessary. Some 567 additional prison spaces could be used for offenders, she added. Scotland Yard said the force was aware of events planned by hateful and divisive groups in London tonight. The disorder follows the fatal stabbings of three schoolgirls at a holiday club in Southport, Merseyside, last week. Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, 17, has been charged with three counts of murder and ten counts of attempted murder. Plans for a 'Dunkirk-style' evacuation of up to 16,000 UK nationals from Lebanon are being stepped up. The evacuation, codenamed Operation Meteoric, would be led by the Royal Navy and the Royal Marines. British Typhoon fighter jets flying from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus would provide 'top cover' for stranded Britons. Yesterday a government official was photographed holding a document outlining the role of immigration officials in the rescue bid. If the mission goes ahead, Border Force (UKBF) officials will be embedded in military teams operating in the Middle East. As many as 16,000 UK citizens remain in Lebanon despite pleas from the Foreign Office for them to leave as soon as possible. British Typhoon fighter jets flying from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus would provide 'top cover' for stranded Britons Thousands of soldiers line up to be evacuated from Dunkirk at the end of May in 1940 Hezbollah fighters attend the funeral procession of late commander Ali Jamal Aldin Jawad, killed in an Israeli strike, in Beirut, Lebanon, on August 6, 2024 The country is at the centre of conflict in the Middle East, as hostilities between Israel and Iranian-backed Lebanon-based Hezbollah fighters intensify. A full-scale military conflict between Israel and Hezbollah a considerably larger force than Hamas could see Britons caught in the crossfire. In such a scenario, commercial airlines would almost certainly cease flying in and out of Lebanon. UK nationals would then face an agonising decision either to hunker down wherever they are until the fighting subsides or to evacuate. Operation Meteoric would involve HMS Duncan, a Type 45 destroyer currently sailing in the Eastern Mediterranean, and the supply ship RFA Cardigan Bay. Type 45 air-defence destroyer HMS Duncan is on standby in the eastern Mediterranean to evacuate British citizens in Lebanon The RFA Cardigan Bay, a transport ship that can deploy landing craft, is on standby in the region Rockets fired from southern Lebanon are intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome air defence system over the Upper Galilee region in northern Israel on Sunday, amid ongoing cross-border clashes between Israeli troops and Lebanon's Hezbollah fighters As the Mail revealed in April, Royal Marines from 30 Commando have conducted reconnaissance along the Lebanese coast to choose a landing site. Border Force officials would process UK nationals as they boarded the Royal Navy and RFA vessels. However, the document seen yesterday raises questions over the readiness of Border Force to respond to the deepening security crisis. It asks: 'Will there be enough UKBF resource? How long could UKBF sustain this operation? Do they have the capability to process 24/7?' Additional Border Force officials have also been sent to the region to advise UK nationals on the safest land routes out of Lebanon and obtaining the necessary documentation. Operation Meteoric has been likened to Operation Dynamo, the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of Allied soldiers from Dunkirk in 1940 when they were surrounded by German forces. Foreign secretary David Lammy has urged British citizens in Lebanon to 'leave now' A ship full of soldiers evacuated from Dunkirk. The mission was necessary after Nazi forces had swept through Europe In his most recent statement on Lebanon, Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: 'Tensions are high and the situation could deteriorate rapidly. 'My message to UK nationals is clear leave now. 'A widening of this conflict is in nobody's interest the consequences could be catastrophic. That's why we continue to call for de-escalation and a diplomatic solution.' A Home Office spokesperson said: 'Border Force and the rest of the Home Office is working closely with government departments to respond to the fast-moving circumstances in the region.' An outraged Physicians Assistant has claimed she spent nearly $30,000 moving from California to Texas for a new job - only to find out that the position was being cut when she arrived. Mojgan Pedram says in a lawsuit that she had a stable job working in a California emergency room - but decided to take a position at Texas Children's Hospital because she is passionate about children. 'Everything was already set, and I relocated,' she recounted to Click 2 Houston. 'I moved here and I was planning to, like financially start to be stable again, but all of it in a second was ruined.' Pedram said she hired in April, and in late May, she went to the hospital to finish a health screening. Mojgam Pedram is suing Texas Children's Hospital - claiming she moved from California for a job there, only to find out that the position was being cut But Pedram said she then got a call from the hospital, telling her they were putting the job offer on hold. 'I asked them, "For how long have you been aware of this, and you didn't tell me?"' she remembers asking the hospital staff. 'And they said, "Well, it's been going on for two months," and then I was like, "I was offered the job in two months, so you were already aware. Why didn't you even tell me or inform me?"' She said she had already spent about $30,000 moving from California to Texas, but that does not even include 'all the expenses about flying, you know everything like that, and then also having to find a place over here right in a short amount of time.' Her attorney, Jacob Scholl, now says Pedram was a victim of the hospital's hiring freeze. 'The takeaway is that Texas Children's Hospital, in all of their bureaucracy, leaves their employees by the wayside,' he told Click 2 Houston. 'They don't seem to care about the decisions that they make and how they affect not just the individual employees, but the community and their family members as well.' The suit comes as Texas Children's Hospital announces it is laying off 5 percent of its workforce DailyMail.com has reached out to Texas Children's Hospital for comment. But on Tuesday, it announced it was laying off five percent of its workforce amid a series of financial challenges. Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer Linda Aldred told the Houston Chronicle the hospital has about 20,000 employees across 120 locations - meaning that a five percent reduction in staff would cut about 1,000 jobs. The cuts will be made to various departments, from frontline workers to leadership, the Chronicle reports. Some of the employees who will face the layoffs are recent hires, while others have been with the hospital for more than 20 years, Aldred said. Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer Linda Aldred blamed the layoffs on 'historic challenges' within the health care industry She blamed the layoffs on 'historic challenges' within the health care industry - including rising costs for both supplies and labor, and the end of pandemic-era health emergency declarations. 'Hospitals and health care facilities across the country, they're making this challenging decision. And that's where we really found ourselves,' she told the Chronicle. 'This has been such a hard decision for us.' Aldred noted that the hospital considered other options, and even reduced the size of its executive team by about 10 percent before deciding layoffs were necessary. Executives will also face pay cuts this fiscal year, she said, after the hospital reported an operating income loss of nearly $200 million through the first six months of the current fiscal year. Multiple factors, including lower patient volumes in Houston and a two week delay in opening a new campus in Austin contributed to the loss. People who are racist to NHS staff 'can and should' be turned away from care, the Health Secretary has said. Wes Streeting said the Government 'will not tolerate' the continuation of violence seen in towns and cities across England in the aftermath of the Southport stabbings. Speaking on a visit to the Leeds Cancer Centre, Mr Streeting condemned the 'mindless thuggery' seen on streets across Britain over the past week. And he said the people who attacked Filipino nurses in Sunderland had 'brought enormous shame on our country'. The two nurses were attacked on Friday evening as they travelled to work to provide emergency cover during unrest in Sunderland. Wes Streeting said the Government 'will not tolerate' the continuation of violence seen in towns and cities across England in the aftermath of the Southport stabbings Speaking on a visit to the Leeds Cancer Centre (pictured), Mr Streeting condemned the 'mindless thuggery' seen on streets across Britain over the past week According to reports, the taxi they were travelling in was pelted with rocks. While the nurses were physically unharmed the Mirror reported they were left 'terrified' by the ordeal. Mr Streeting the NHS has a 'zero tolerance' approach to racism. 'The Government will not tolerate the continuation of this mindless thuggery by far-right agitators in our country,' he said. 'I was appalled by reports of violence directed towards Filipino nurses in Sunderland these were nurses going into work to provide emergency care and their attackers bring shame on our flag and shame on our country.' He added: 'I will not tolerate, under any circumstances, NHS or social care staff in any health or care setting being subjected to intimidation, harassment or racist abuse. 'We have a zero tolerance policy in the NHS and we'll take a zero tolerance approach in social care too. 'People who are abusing NHS staff can be turned away, and should be turned away, if that is the way that they are treating our staff.' Police officers pictured with rioters in Nottingham Market Square on Saturday A police car was set on fire in Hartlepool by anti-migrant rioters on Wednesday Mr Streeting continued: 'I think the overwhelming majority of people in our country are utterly disgusted and appalled by the racism and violence on display. 'I think we are lucky to have people in our NHS and social care sectors who come from around the world to provide great, compassionate care. 'I am proud that we have those people in Britain. I think the vast majority of Brits are too. 'And those people that have hijacked our flag for their mindless, racist thuggery they have no idea about this country's history or heritage, and they have brought enormous shame on our country by attacking NHS staff in this way.' Police separate the two opposing protests outside the Sheikh Abdullah Quilliam Mosque in Liverpool on Friday A man points his finger at a line of police officers during the riots in London on Wednesday Dr Leyla Hannbeck, chief executive of the Independent Pharmacies Association, today said there is a 'lot of worry' about the riots among her members and she has written to NHS England asking for guidance for front-line workers. She added: 'I have had pharmacies telling me that some residents in the local area - mainly in ethnic minority areas - are coming in to ask if they sell anything that can protect them from acid attacks due to the riots.' On Monday, Professor Nicola Ranger, general secretary and chief executive of the Royal College of Nursing, said: 'Migrant nursing staff are precious members of our communities, hardwired into the very DNA of our health and care services. We ask government to ensure that anybody targeting them pays a very heavy price.' It comes after GP leaders issued a warning to family doctors after reports that staff had been 'targeted' during the attacks. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was slammed for her apparent hypocrisy after putting JD Vance on blast for 'manspreading' - then quickly being caught in the same sitting position. The New York congresswoman reacted with distaste to a clip of Vance sitting comfortably in a cushy, wide chair - with his legs spread in a relaxed manner. 'Why are you sitting like that,' she wrote on Tuesday, in an apparent jab at Vance's spread eagle stance. But AOC's mockery was deconstructed within minutes. Clown World, an account on X known for criticizing liberals, took a screenshot of AOC's post and placed it side-by-side with her own wide sitting posture from less than two years ago. Clown World's post on X showing that AOC herself has done manspreading in the past 'AOC,' the account wrote over her criticism of Vance. 'Also AOC,' the labeled the image of her wide stance. Many other people replied with the same image of AOC's wide sitting stance. Another user posted a picture of AOC sitting at a table at a restaurant with her boyfriend Riley Roberts, who was sitting with his legs crossed. 'Why is he sitting like that,' the user asked. Vance, former President Donald Trump's running mate, had been skewered by other liberal accounts on X for how he was sitting during his appearance on the Full Send Podcast last Friday. But with her enormous following, AOC brought new attention to the clip and now, some internet backlash for doing the same thing. The photograph of AOC sitting on stage comes from a campaign event she held in October 2022 ahead of the contentious midterms - a contest where the Republicans captured a majority in the House of Representatives and the Democrats maintained control of the Senate. The event was being held in a small auditorium in her district and several protestors were recorded by X user Danny De Urbina chanting 'AOC has got to go.' One man was banging a drum to punctuate the shouts from his allies. The camera then pans back to AOC who was sitting on stage with her legs spread and dancing to the drum beat, trying to appear unbothered by the interruption. One woman could also be heard repeatedly calling AOC a 'sellout.' A spokesperson for the liberal congresswoman provided a statement to Newsweek following the event calling the people shouting her down disruptors that were 'part of a far-right wing group that regularly protests at vaccine clinics, against LGBTQ rights, etc.' 'They were not constituents,' the spokesperson added. 'We do thank the numerous constituents from Astoria who turned out last night to engage in the civic process. We're grateful that we were still able to have a meaningful dialogue, in spite of that group of outsiders.' Vance also has a history of attacking AOC. At her October 2022 event in her congressional district, AOC is seen sitting with her legs wide, though the significance of this was not seized on at the time After the protesters began disrupting her event, she began doing a little dance on stage to appear unbothered by their shouting JD Vance is pictured on the Full Send Podcast, a show hosted by Kyle Forgeard Back when he was running for his Ohio Senate seat in 2021, he spoke to a Catholic group about her 'sociopathic' attitude toward families and children, the Guardian reported. 'Maybe AOC hasn't found the right person, whatever the case may be. AOC has said basically if you look at her public remarks on this that it's immoral to have children because of climate change concerns. Right? This is, let's just be direct, a sociopathic attitude towards family,' Vance said. AOC did in fact question the ethics of having kids in a world that's being affected by climate change back shortly after she was elected in 2018. 'Basically, there's a scientific consensus that the lives of children are going to be very difficult. And it does lead, I think, young people to have a legitimate question: Is it okay to still have children?' she said in an Instagram live from March 2019. Vance's attacks on AOC regarding her views on family was around the time he made his infamous comments about the US being run by 'a bunch of childless cat ladies,' remarks that have resurfaced since his VP appointment. He specifically name-dropped Vice President Kamala Harris, AOC and Pete Buttigieg. Sir Keir Starmer's government came under fire yesterday for dropping Tory plans to ban certain criminals from being given taxpayer-subsidised social housing. The Housing department, led by the Prime Minister's deputy Angela Rayner, has revealed that the new Labour administration will keep convicted yobs, rioters and even terrorists on the housing list. This is despite last week pledging a 'new clamp down on criminal and violent disorder' amid riots sweeping the country. Sir Keir's government has also ditched the previous Tory administration's pledge to prioritise council and social housing for those with local and British connections over foreigners. The shift was revealed in a written Parliamentary answer to a question tabled by the Tories' shadow housing secretary Kemi Badenoch, which was quietly slipped out on Friday. Sir Keir Starmer's government came under fire yesterday for dropping Tory plans to ban certain criminals from being given taxpayer-subsidised social housing Sir Keir's government has also ditched the previous Tory administration's pledge to prioritise council and social housing for those with local and British connections over foreigners The Housing department, led by the Prime Minister's deputy Angela Rayner, has revealed that the new Labour administration will keep convicted yobs, rioters and even terrorists on the housing list This was the day after Sir Keir pledged a crackdown on thuggery amid rioting sparked by the mass stabbing of children at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport. Asked if Labour was pressing ahead with the Tories' proposals, housing minister Matthew Pennycook replied: 'The Government does not intend to enact the policy proposals set out in the consultation in question. A formal response will be issued in due course.' Last night Ms Badenoch blasted: 'Those who break the law, make neighbours' lives a misery or treat the UK as a hotel they're just passing through, should not be given subsidised housing. 'The public wants to know that only decent and hardworking people who have contributed to this country are given social housing. 'Labour's one day u-turn shows inconsistency and hypocrisy across government. There is no joined-up government between the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister. 'A day after Keir Starmer promises a crackdown, Angela Rayner gives a green light to yobs, rioters and terrorists. The Tories' proposals were announced for consultation when it was in power on 30 January this year The shift was revealed in a written Parliamentary answer to a question tabled by the Tories' shadow housing secretary Kemi Badenoch, which was quietly slipped out on Friday 'Worse, sending a public signal that social housing won't be fairly allocated to local people and law-abiding citizens threatens to undermine integration and widen community divisions. 'On so many levels, this is a deeply flawed decision by the Labour Government, and speaks volumes about their hostility to common sense British values.' The Tories' proposals were announced for consultation when it was in power on 30 January this year. It built on previous proposed reforms to give preference for council and social housing to local residents and Armed Forces veterans. They would have meant that people with unspent convictions for certain criminal anti-social behaviour being banned from getting social housing for up to five years. Those who have a conviction for a terrorist offence would have been disqualified for life. And people who could prove a 'connection to the UK for at least 10 years' or a 'local area for at least two years' would also have been prioritised. It comes after it emerged earlier this year that 14 of the top 20 that let a higher proportion of social homes to foreigners than Britons are Labour-run. A Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government spokesperson said: 'Powers are already in place to make sure those convicted of an offence at the scene of a riot or anti-social behaviour can be excluded from social housing or evicted. 'If a person's immigration leave does not allow them recourse to public funds then they will not be eligible to receive social housing and there is no guarantee of social housing even when a person is eligible.' The wife of a Tory councillor has been arrested for racial hatred after saying rioters should set fire to all the migrant hotels. Lucie Connolly, who works as a childminder in Northamptonshire, concluded her vile tweet with the phrase: 'if that makes me racist, so be it.' She has since deleted her post and blamed it on 'a moment of extreme outrage and emotion' when she was acting on 'false and malicious' information. Her husband Raymond, who is vice chair of the committee on adult social care at West Northamptonshire Council, responded to the BBC by saying his wife is not racist - because she looks after 'Somalian and Bangladeshi kids'. Northamptonshire Police said that a 41-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of inciting racial hatred after reports of a hate crime regarding a social media post. Posting on Twitter, Connolly said: 'Mass deportation now, set fire to all the f****** hotels full of the b******* for all I care, while you're at it take the treacherous government and politicians with them. Lucie Connolly, who works as a childminder in Northamptonshire, concluded her vile tweet with the phrase: 'if that makes me racist, so be it' She has since deleted her post and blamed it on 'a moment of extreme outrage and emotion' when she was acting on 'false and malicious' information Northamptonshire Police said that a 41-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of inciting racial hatred after reports of a hate crime regarding a social media post Online childcare community Childcare.co.uk have since confirmed that they have suspended Connolly following the tweet, after allegations emerged she had an advert on their platform A bin on fire outside the Holiday Inn migrant hotel in Rotherham on Sunday, August 4 'I feel physically sick knowing what these families will now have to endure. If that makes me racist, so be it.' The message was posted just hours after the death of three girls, aged six, seven and nine, at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club in Southport. The horror knife rampage sparked s slew of misinformation that spread like wildfire online fuelled by Russian-linked fake news. Online childcare community Childcare.co.uk have since confirmed that they have suspended Connolly following the tweet, after allegations emerged she had an advert on their platform. Several posts remain up on Connolly's account - including one where she says she has 'seen noone trying to organise or spread any kind of hate or discrimination'. She continues: 'Imagine if two tier Keir told me I had to stay in my home due to riots. That threat is very real right now.' It comes after violent riots have exploded across several cities including Manchester, Liverpool, Plymouth and Birmingham following the Southport knife rampage which claimed the lives of three young girls and left many others injured. And just days ago gangs of masked thugs descended on hotels believed to be housing migrants and asylum seekers, with many starting fire to the buildings as they threw petrol bombs and projectiles at police. Approached by the BBC, Cllr Connolly defended his wife, saying that his wife had made one 'stupid, spur of the moment tweet out of frustration and quickly deleted it'. Her husband Raymond, who is vice chair of the committee on adult social care at West Northamptonshire Council, responded to the BBC by saying his wife is not racist - because she looks after 'Somalian and Bangladeshi kids' The stairwell of the Holiday Inn Express in Tamworth was set alight, as 'Get out England' was spray painted on the side of the building Serious violence and rioting by far-right protesters continues in side streets into the evening He continued: 'She's a good person and she's not racist. She's got Somalian and Bangladeshi kids she looks after and she loves them like they're her own'. Responding on social media today, Ms Connolly said: I regret and apologise for a recent post that I made. Acting on information that I now know to be false and malicious, and in a moment of extreme outrage and emotion, I posted words that I realise were wrong in every way. 'I am someone who cares enormously about children, and the similarity between those beautiful children who were so brutally attacked and my own daughter overwhelmed me with horror but I should not have expressed that horror in the way that I did. 'This has been a valuable lesson for me, in realising how wrong and inaccurate things appearing on social media can be, and I will never ever react in this way again.' A mother who allegedly neglected her daughter and allowed her to live in a house riddled with human and animal faeces likely won't be jailed because of her mental health issues, a court has heard. The woman, aged in her 30s, from western Sydney, has pleaded not guilty to child neglect after her young daughter was taken away by police in January. The girl was allegedly forced to sit in dirty nappies and clothes for significant amounts of time, while relatives alleged that when they came to pick up the girl for visits, she had bruises and scratches. The girl's great aunt alleged to police she saw cockroaches all over the house during visits last year while the bathroom sink was filled with toilet paper and dirty water, according to NSW Supreme Court documents, The Daily Telegraph reported. She also alleged she saw human and cat faeces all over the two-bedroom unit's walls. The great aunt claimed the little girl had marks on her face that may have been ringworm and burns on her hands and legs. The girl's great uncle alleged to police that when he came to pick her up, her hair smelt of urine, her clothes also had a stench to them and her shoes didn't fit. The mother spent six months in custody but was released on conditional bail last month. A mother who allegedly neglected her daughter and allowed her to live in a house riddled with human and animal faeces likely won't be jailed because of her mental health issues, a court has heard (stock image) She is not allowed to have any children or animal in her care, has a curfew, and must report to police daily. The woman's four other children had also earlier been removed from her care, according to court documents. Despite the horrific alleged crimes, Justice Richard Button said the mother would likely not serve a jail sentence if she was convicted. 'What's alleged to have happened here is that she neglected a child very profoundly, and one appreciates that was a direct result of her mental illness,' he said, the publication reported. 'I think it's imperative that the applicant continue with medication at the discretion of [her] doctor and continue to get help in the community.' The case will be heard again in November. Police have launched a manhunt for a murder suspect after a woman in her 20s was stabbed to death in broad daylight in Ipswich. Emergency services were called to Burrell Road shortly after 7.10pm today following reports that a woman had been stabbed. Upon arrival, officers found the victim with serious injuries. She was treated at the scene, but despite treatment died shortly afterwards. There is a police cordon at the scene and the road is closed to traffic at both ends. No arrests have been made at this time, but police believe the victim and her attacker were known to each other, Ipswich.co.uk reported. Emergency services were called to Burrell Road (pictured) shortly after 7.10pm today following reports that a woman had been stabbed There is a police cordon at the scene and the road is closed to traffic at both ends No arrests have been made at this time, but police (pictured at the scene) believe the victim and her attacker were known to each other Detective Chief Inspector Tam Burgess said: 'Emergency services, including a number of police resources, were deployed to the scene and those in the area will continue to see an increased police presence throughout tonight and the coming days. 'A murder investigation has been launched and we are in the early stages of our enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, however it is believed the parties are known to each other. 'We would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any information, no matter how small you may feel it is.' Anyone who witnessed the incident or has dash camera, CCTV or doorbell footage that may be useful to investigators is urged to contact police. A popular snack has been urgently pulled from the shelves of major supermarkets due to an undeclared soy allergen. Harvest Snaps pea crisps have been recalled by Calbee Australia after they were sold nationally at several retailers including Woolworths, Coles, Aldi, and Costco. Several independent stores such as IGA and convenience stores such as 7-Eleven also stocked the product. The affected items were sold at these retailers from June 6. The soy allergen was found in several products, which were sold in regular bags, big share bags and multipacks of lunchbox-sized bags. Five different Original Salted flavoured packages have been affected by the recall. These include the 120g, 200g, 230g, 5 x 18g, and 50 x 18g packs. Two different Salt and Vinegar flavoured packages sold in 120g and 230g packs have also been affected. Harvest Snaps pea crisps have been recalled from several retailers including Woolworths and Coles (stock image) Seven different packages of the Harvest Snaps pea crisps that were sold in two different flavours (pictured) have been affected by the recall The affected products have a a best before date of 25/01/2025, 26/01/2025 and 29/01/2025. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Calbee Australia for comment. Food Standards Australia issued a product warning for shoppers, who may be at risk. 'Consumers who have a Soy allergy or intolerance should not consume this product,' they said. 'Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice'. Consumers have been advised to return the products to the place where they bought them from to receive a full refund. She appeared, dewy-eyed, in a joint interview with Prince Harry on the U.S. network CBS on Sunday, to announce the launch of their Parents Support group, for those whose children had been harmed or even taken their own life as a result of poisonous content on social media. Meghan, who revealed in an interview with Oprah Winfrey three years ago that she thought of taking her own life while a working royal, said she hoped by speaking out she could help others. I just didnt I didnt want to be alive any more, she told CBS News host Jane Pauley. Meghan's interview with Prince Harry on the US network CBS on Sunday Meghan has shunned her seriously ill father Thomas, who paid for her private education and cared for her when her mother disappeared for years during her childhood, writes Amanda Platell When youve been through any level of pain or trauma, I believe part of our healing journey - certainly part of mine - is being able to be really open about it. I would never want someone else to feel that way, and if voicing what I have overcome will save someone, Ill take a hit for that, she added nobly. Im no stranger to the devastating impact of suicide. My beloved grandfather killed himself on his third attempt. Ive seen how it rips the heart out of families. So all due sympathy for Meghan having suffered such thoughts. Happily, the Duchess seems to have recovered, even if it is, as she says, an ongoing journey. But how brazen of Meghan to use this interview as an opportunity to promote herself as the compassionate Duchess, when she has, on other occasions, shown so little respect or empathy to others. Like most self-appointed victims, Meghan is often seeking to blame others. The dream she had of life beyond luxury and wealth as a duchess, she believes, was undone by the Queen, supported by her seriously ill husband Prince Philip, Prince William and his father King Charles. She and Harry believed they had no choice but to betray the Queen and Charles, William and Kate, in their bitter Oprah interview, their Netflix documentary and then Harrys unforgivable memoir Spare. But lets start with that private dossier investigating reported accusations of systematic bullying towards her staff when she was a working Royal vehemently denied by Meghan which the Firm loyally buried before it could appear. Id love to hear what those staff members who made allegations had to say about Meghans compassion. And then there is her disrespect for the Windsors who welcomed her in before she slandered them. Not just as being cruel to her and unsupportive of her mental health struggles - but branding some of them as racists, telling Oprah that members of the Royal Family had expressed concerns and conversations about how dark [her babys] skin might be. In dropping this bombshell in such a cryptic fashion, Meghan surely knew she was cruelly firing the starting gun for a royal witch-hunt. Then in December 2023, only months before Kate revealed her devastating cancer diagnosis, Meghans mouthpiece, royal correspondent Omid Scobie who collaborated with the Duchess on his first book about the Sussexes, Finding Freedom accidentally revealed the alleged royal racists to be King Charles and Kate via the Dutch-language version of the book. The constant attacks from Montecito and the couples supporters cannot have been good for the Princess of Waless health in recent years. Lets not forget Meghans continued estrangement from her frail father Thomas, who paid for her private education and cared for her for years during her childhood. She has turned her back on him, denying him the right to meet not only her husband Prince Harry but his grandchildren Archie and Lilibet. Im sure Thomas wouldnt describe his daughter as compassionate. Meghan's tearful interview with friend of her and Harry, ITV presenter Tom Bradby, on a trip to Africa when he asked how she was doing The impression of kindness Meghan gave during the CBS interview was worlds away from the often indignant Duchess portrayed in royal expert Robert Jobsons new biography of the Princess of Wales and serialised in the Mail recently. He revealed, among other things, that Meghan was taken aback at the disparity between William and Kates lavish apartment in Kensington Palace and the Sussexes humble two-bedroom Nottingham Cottage. As I said, Meghan seems to want to be seen as a victim at all times. Remember her tearful interview with ITV presenter Tom Bradby (a friend of Harrys), on a trip to Africa in 2019 when he asked how she was doing. Meghan replied: Look, any woman especially when they are pregnant, youre really vulnerable and so that was made really challenging. And then when you have a newborn - you know. And especially as a woman, its a lot. And, also thank you for asking, because not many people have asked if Im OK. Forgive mothers around the world for failing to sympathise with the whinges from Meghan who enjoyed success, wealth and privilege beyond most womens imagination. It didnt wash then and it doesnt wash now. As Jobson wrote in his book, not just we Brits but Americans, too, have grown weary of the privileged Sussexes dishing the dirt on the Royals. The couples biggest pay cheques - from Netflix and that memoir - are now behind them. So how will they fund their lifestyle while their popularity here and abroad is tanking? One thing is for sure, Meghans father-in-law King Charles wont be coming to the rescue. As People magazine revealed last week, the bank of Dad isnt taking Harrys calls or answering his letters. Just possibly, like the rest of us, the King is fed up with the veneer of compassion which the Sussexes keep forcing on the world. Visitors to Yellowstone ran for their lives last month after an erupting geyser launched a boiling plume of scalding hot water and rock 600 feet into the air. But, while geologists regard this July 23 'Biscuit Basin' explosion as a 'normal event,' the incident has sparked renewed fears about Yellowstone's buried super-volcano awakening from its 600,000-year slumber. Michael Poland, Scientist-in-Charge at the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, told DailyMail.com that even parts of surrounding states would be 'in bad shape,' if the park's 43-by-28 mile-wide 'caldera' were to blanket the sky in volcanic ash. 'Ash is heavy,' Poland, a research geophysicist noted. 'And it would cause problems with water, agriculture and electrical grids.' Although the Yellowstone caldera's initial blast would kill thousands in a 'super-eruption,' showering multiple US states in 'pyroclastic flows' of high-speed lava, rock and hot gas, Poland said the event would not spell 'the end of the human race.' The explosion barely registered on seismometers just kilometers away (AP) The Yellowstone caldera, Spanish for 'cooking pot,' is defined as a 'supervolcano' due to its historic capacity for eruptions that can spew more than 240 cubic-miles of volcanic material out from its location seven miles below the park's surface. This supervolcano's subterranean 'magma chamber,' a reservoir of partially melted Basaltic rock, had its last explosion roughly 630,000 years ago, geologists estimate. Some have suggested that the odds of a Yellowstone super-eruption in any given year today are 700,000 to one. So what would happen if Yellowstone erupted now? Two scenarios have been considered. In the first, if the supervolcano erupted in one 'big bang,' some have suggested that the explosion could be equivalent to 875,000 megatons of TNT (million tons). To put this in context, the largest nuclear bomb ever detonated, the Soviet Tsar Bomba, was 50 megatons just a few thousandths of a percent of that power and yet the Bomba was reported to have broken windows hundreds of miles away. Thousands would die in pressure waves from a 'big bang' eruption of the caldera and it could cover much of the North American continent in up to a foot of ash. It was immediately clear it was not a precursor of an eruption, Poland says (AP) What would really happen if Yellowstone's supervolcano erupted? And areas near the eruption would be devastated by those scorching, destructive 'pyroclastic flows' a mixture of volcanic spatter containing blocks or 'bombs' of lava, ash, and pumice stones all propelled by rapidly expanding superheated gas. The US states that are home to Yellowstone and surround the iconic national park, including Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, would be caught in harm's way. 'Farther out from that you're dealing with falling ash,' Poland told DailyMail.com. 'Ash is incredibly heavy; it's pulverized rock. You don't want it accumulating on roofs and stuff,' he explained. 'People would have to work to lessen those impacts.' But Poland added that new evidence suggests that the Yellowstone supervolcano's previous eruptions were not one 'big bang' but a series of eruptions. But even in that second scenario, this series of smaller eruptions would still leave an area within a 125-miles radius from Yellowstone devastated, Poland said. 'There's all kinds of examples of small amounts of ash causing buildings to collapse,' he noted. 'There is a really amazing photo of an airplane in the Philippines after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991.' 'The plane is tilted up while sitting on the ground, because the ash fell on the back just caused it to [weigh down the tail] basically.' Ash from these serial eruptions would blanket fields, destroy electric cables and collapse buildings, with deadly 'drifts' of ash leaving rescuers struggling, the geophysicist continued. Areas closer to the eruption would be covered in over three feet of ash including Salt Lake City, Utah; Boise, Idaho; and Missoula, Montana he said. The blasts' huge clouds of ash and sulfur would also lower global temperatures, for years if not decades, which would impact agriculture in both the Americas and the world. 'In any eruption of that size, there would be climate impacts,' Poland said. 'So you're going to be putting all those aerosols into the stratosphere, which would lower global temperature temporarily, right? It would take some years for that to filter out,' he noted. The terrifying moment a giant explosion at Yellowstone National Park has been captured by tourists as they ran for their lives Vlada March, from California , was visiting the park with her mother and shot the event unfold, showing dozens of visitors swiftly moving off a boardwalk just inches from the hot spring, which was destroyed Poland pointed to the 1816 eruption of Mount Tambora on the island of Sumbawa, in what is now the nation of Indonesia, as one well-documented example. The event threw a cloud of aerosols the size of Australia up into the atmosphere. 'It created what was called "the Year Without a Summer" in North America and Europe,' according to Poland, 'because it lowered global temperatures for a year.' Crops failed across the US and Europe due to cold and lack of sunshine. Grain prices soared, and people starved in many countries. Clouds of aerosols would blot out the sun's warming rays, and could drop temperatures globally by several degrees. Scientists have suggested that a Yellowstone super-eruption would have a huge economic impact, as rescuers struggle to clear ash, restore power and water utilities citing the relatively small eruption of Iceland's Eyjafjallajokull in 2010 as evidence. But what isn't going to happen, Poland opined, is the popular urban myth of a Yellowstone super-eruption condemning Earth to 'a massive mass extinction.' Such theories have come into vogue, thanks to streaming 'docu-tainment' programs, like the Discovery+ film "Yellowstone Supervolcano: American Doomsday" in 2021. The eruption of Mount Pinatubo covered nearby areas in ash (AFP) The eruption of Mount Pinatubo covered nearby areas in ash 'Even if it were one of these massive explosive eruptions,' Poland said, 'no explosive eruption has ever resulted in an extinction of plants and animals, a massive mass extinction.' 'They devastate a region. They cool the climate,' he acknowledged. 'Then things go back to normal.' 'I'm not saying it would be easy or fun to live through,' Poland said, 'but these are not mass extinction events that are going to drive life off planet Earth.' 'In the big eruption that occurred 76,000 years ago on Toba in Indonesia. There was a species of hominid that was living on Flores Island, which is just a few islands over from where Toba was that survived that event,' Poland noted. 'They went right on living,' he said. For context, scientists have calculated that the prehistoric Toba eruption likely lowered temperatures somewhere between 3.6 and 14 degrees Fahrenheit, far beyond the global average temperature changes that worry climate scientists today. 'We'd have some complications from technology. But this idea that it's the civilization-ending event is wrong,' according to Poland. 'And remember, most of these eruptions are not that big.' Most evidence suggests that the magmatic system under Yellowstone is solid at present In contrast to Toba's ancient cataclysm, Poland noted that this summer's July 23 explosion in Yellowstone barely registered on a seismometer a mile or so away. 'It was immediately clear that this was not something that was a precursor to a volcanic eruption, or even really related to volcanic activity,' Poland told DailyMail.com. 'It was really confined to this hot water system.' As he put it metaphorically: 'It was due to a hot water plumbing system becoming sealed [...] A lot of this hot water carries silica dissolved in the water, and that precipitates out and it coats the conduits, a bit like what happens to old plumbing.' When this happens, pressure builds up until it can crack the rock. While unusually large, Poland said that such explosions can and do happen in the backcountry of Yellowstone, totally unobserved. 'This is one of the best-observed ever,' he said. 'We can use this to better understand the hazards from future events.' Yellowstone is one of the best-monitored volcanic systems on Earth, with 46 seismic stations and 30 GPS stations that use the technology to watch for the ground going up and down, alongside temperature monitors and thermal monitoring from satellites. 'This is one of the reasons, I think, why we immediately were not concerned about this being a prelude to some volcanic event because all of this monitoring showed no changes in the magmatic system,' he explained. The National Park Service closed all access to Biscuit Basin while geologists investigated Globally a truly big eruption might occur every 50,000 to 100,000 years, but at present, Yellowstone looks like its 'magmatic system' is mostly solid, he said. 'We know that from seismic imaging,' Poland said. 'It's sort of like taking an MRI of the earth. So, there just isn't that much magma down there.' 'This isn't something that geologists who know and study Yellowstone are particularly concerned about because there are far more active and hazardous volcanoes on Earth for these kinds of eruptions,' he continued. For this reason, in Poland's view, the popularly quoted statistic that Yellowstone has a one in 700,000 chance of erupting is misleading. 'There is some statistic out there that might quantify how likely Yellowstone is to erupt in a given year. But I think it's a bit like asking, how likely are you to be struck by lightning? What are your odds of being struck by lightning within five minutes right now?' Poland asked. 'Zero, because there's no thunderstorms.' 'The conditions have to be there in order for the odds to make sense. And so that's what I say with Yellowstone,' he said, 'the conditions aren't there for an eruption. The odds of an eruption this year are really kind of zero.' Poland believes that people's fears around volcanoes focus on Yellowstone because of its iconic status as a US national park despite there being other volcanoes that are far more likely to erupt. 'I hate the term supervolcano,' he admitted. 'I have had people ask me, "What would a hypervolcano or a megavolcano be?"' 'I think it's misleading, because it implies that these volcanoes only have that activity, when in fact it's more common that they have [less explosive] lava flows.' READ MORE: Disease killing beavers in Utah can spread to humans Health officials are warning parents to be on the look out for quarter-sized green packets in upstate New York this month. More than 600,000 rabies vaccines are set to be dropped by plane from August 12 through 21 over several counties. While officials said most packets will be consumed by animals within four days, parents are urged to be on the look out and immediately call a doctor if their child handles one. The vaccines are not fatal to humans, but can cause skin irritations. These quarter-sized green packets contain an oral rabies vaccine for wildlife. Health Departments in upstate New York are working with the New York State Department of Health and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Services to airdrop oral rabies vaccines for wildlife. 'This oral rabies vaccine is intended for raccoons, foxes and coyotes and to give them protection against rabies infection,' Deputy Director of Environmental Health Peter Tripi said in a press release. The oral rabies vaccine bait is housed in small green packets about the size of a quarter. To make the bait attractive to wildlife, the packets are coated with a sweet attractant that includes vegetable-based fats, wax, icing sugar, vegetable oil, artificial marshmallow flavor, and dark-green food-grade dye. But officials have warned that some children may think the vaccine is a treat and may attempt to eat them. The program, which is held each year, uses a fixed-wing aircraft to drop oral rabies vaccine bait. The targeted counties include Erie, Orleans, Genesee and Wyoming, and northern Chautauqua and Cattaraugus. On August 17, Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH) vector control staff will distribute bait by hand in urban and more densely populated parts of the county, and helicopters will begin dropping bait over central and northwestern Erie County through August 21. 'This vital service distributes oral rabies vaccine in places where wildlife will eat it. When foxes, skunks, raccoons, woodchucks and other mammals eat these small green packets the size of a quarter coin, they gain protection against rabies, a virus that is 100% fatal,' ECDOH stated in the press release. This map shows where and how rabies and vaccine packets will be dropped throughout New York state. Low-flying planes will drop the first round of vaccine packets over Erie County's rural and suburban towns. When an animal bites into the bait, it will release the vaccine into their mouth. With an adequate dose, the animal will develop immunity to rabies. Humans and pets can't get rabies from the bait. But officials urge the public not to touch it, and to closely monitor children to make sure they don't touch or eat it. Residents who come into contact with the bait should wash their hands immediately, and then call the New York State Department of Health Rabies Information Line at (888) 574-6656, officials say. If you have to move a vaccine packet, officials advise wearing gloves or using a plastic bag or paper towel to pick it up. If the bait is damaged, throw it in the trash. If it's intact, toss it into a wooded area. If your pet eats the bait, do not try to remove it from their mouth. Eating it won't harm them, though they may vomit if they consume several baits, officials say. Contact a veterinarian if your pet has consumed vaccine baits. The ECDOH also recommends keeping pets indoors as much as possible during the vaccine airdrop to ensure that only wildlife consumes the bait. Most of the bait are eaten within four days, and almost all of them will be gone a week after they're dropped, officials say. Any that aren't found and eaten will harmlessly dissolve and the exposed vaccine will become inactivated. Archaeologists have discovered what is thought to be the world's oldest calendar. Etched in a 12,000-year-old stone pillar at the mysterious Gobekli Tepe site in Turkey, experts say it could rewrite our timeline of civilization. The timekeeping system strongly suggests ancient humans had accurate ways to keep time 10,000 years before it was documented in Ancient Greece in 150 BC. Another find exciting researchers is that the carvings depict a comet strike that caused a mini ice age for 1,200 years, which wiped out large animals and galvanized agricultural development and complex societies. Researchers discovered the pillar at the Gobekli Tepe archaeological site in southern Turkey which appeared to commemorate a comet strike that ushered in a mini ice age. Researchers at the University of Edinburgh counted 365 days of 12 lunar months with 11 additional days, believing each 'V' marking on the pillar stood for one day (pictured) Experts said the memorialized event served as the defining moment that forced the ancient people to switch from hunter-gatherer lifestyles to more permanent settlements. Dr Martin Sweatman, of the University of Edinburgh's School of Engineering, who led the research, said: 'It appears the inhabitants of Gobekli Tepe were keen observers of the sky, which is to be expected given their world had been devastated by a comet strike. 'This event might have triggered civilization by initiating a new religion and by motivating developments in agriculture to cope with the cold climate. 'Possibly, their attempts to record what they saw are the first steps towards the development of writing millennia later.' The Gobekli Tepe site is the oldest man-made structure ever found. It was constructed between 9,600 and 8,200 BC, predating Stonehenge by more than 6,000 years. The site features several stone pillars and after a recent analysis, researchers a the University of Edinburgh in Scotland concluded one structure was carved to be a calendar. The pillar featured a 'V' symbol to represent a single day, which the team found 365 etched throughout. The structure also included 12 lunar months with 11 additional days. The pillar was divided into two sections with rows of 'V' symbols at the top and smaller box symbols in the lower main portion which shows a bird holding a circular disc symbol above a scorpion. Researchers discovered the pillar at the Gobekli Tepe archaeological site in southern Turkey The researchers discovered the solar calendar on pillars from a 12,000-year-old archaeological site (pictured) According to the study, published in Time and Mind, the pillar features a disc that represents the sun and the scorpion is representative of the Greek Scorpion constellation. The team also identified a tall bird bending down toward a wriggling snake, which could depict the autumnal constellation Ophiuchus. The discovery has suggested that people recorded dates using precession, the wobble in Earth's axis which affects the movement of constellations across the sky. It was long believed that the ancient Greeks were the first to use this method in 150 BC. But the main discovery was that the ancient inhabitants memorialized a catastrophic comet strike. The team has long been working at the site and determined in a 2021 study that the comet struck around 13,000 years ago based on high levels of platinum and nanodiamonds that form during high-energy explosions from comets. Pictured: The Nebra sky-disc found in Germany which displays symbols for the sun, moon, Pleiades and a possible comet This celestial event occurs when a comet's orbit crosses Earth causing the objects to collide which can have large and impactful consequences. Researchers compared the pillar carvings to symbols found on other ancient artifacts to confirm that the newest discovery did represent a solar calendar and the pivotal comet strike. This included a sky-disc artifact from the second millennium BC in Germany showing the sun, moon and the Pleiades - a star cluster in the Taurus constellation - that is believed to measure the summer and winter solstice. Yet, it's the final feature at the bottom of the disc that displayed a long, curved shape with parallel lines that could have represented a comet, the study said. Researchers reported that the newest carvings showed similar comet fragment symbols that originated from the Aquarius and Pisces constellations. The Gobekli Tepe site is known as the oldest city every found, being constructed 9,600 and 8,200 BC, which predates Stonehenge by more than 6,000 years The comet fragments crashed to Earth nearly 13,000 years ago - around 10,850 BC - and wiped out several large animal species, marking the largest comet strike since the event that killed off the dinosaurs 66 million years ago. The elimination of the animals is thought to have triggered agricultural changes that created more complex societies that gave birth to the beginnings of modern-day civilization in the fertile crescent which is made up of countries known today as Egypt, Iraq and Lebanon. The team also uncovered a second pillar that depicted the Taurid meteor stream that lasted 27 days and is thought to be the source of the comet fragments. J.R.R Tolkien might have created the world's most famous hobbit almost 90 years ago, but scientists say real-life hobbits are far older than that. Archaeologists have uncovered the 700,000-year-old fossils of an ancient hominid ancestor of homo floresiensis - a human relative often known as the Hobbits. The researchers uncovered the fossilised bones of four individuals, including two children in a deep layer of sandstone on the Island of Flores, Indonesia. By comparing the tiny forearm bone to the size of a modern human, the researchers estimate that this hominid would have stood at just 3.2ft (100cm) tall. Co-author Professor Adam Brumm of Griffith University says: 'It is now apparent from the tiny proportions of this limb bone that the early progenitors of the "Hobbit" were even smaller than we had previously thought.' Researchers have discovered that our ancient hominin relatives (pictured) were even smaller than previously thought Homo floresiensis an extinct species of human nicknamed the 'Hobbit' was discovered in 2003, when its skeleton was found in a cave on the island of Flores, Indonesia (artist's impression) The small hominins gained the nickname 'Hobbits' after J.R.R Tolkien's creations. Pictured Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit In 2003, researchers discovered the remains of an ancient hominid species in a cave called Liang Bua on the island of Flores, Indonesia. Named homo floresiensis after the island, these human relatives were just one metre-tall, much smaller than other known early hominins. Experts believe they lived on the island as recently as 50,000 years ago - when our own species was already established in Australia. However, since their discovery, scientists have debated where these tiny hominins may have come from and why they evolved to be so small. Now, Professor Brumm and his co-authors believe they have found evidence which could finally provide an answer. In their paper, published in Nature Communications, the researchers report the discovery of an extremely rare set of fossils which predate the Liang Bua hominins by 650,000 years. The skull of homo floresiensis (left) was significantly smaller than a modern human skull (right) The remains of an ancient relative of homo floresiensis were discovered on the island of Flores, Indonesia (pictured). This is very near to Java where Homo Erectus first evolved The fossilised upper arm bone (pictured) is the smallest ever discovered in an adult hominin specimen The researchers made their discovery in an area called Mata Menge which lies 46 miles (75km) to the east of the Liang Bua cave. The bones were found in a layer of sandstone which had been deposited by a small stream around 700,000 years ago. The 10 pieces of fossil belonged to four individuals and include teeth and a partial humerus, the upper arm bone. This arm was far smaller than anything the researchers had expected to find, but digital microscopy of the microstructure revealed that it was from an adult. Co-author Professor Yousuke Kaifu, of the University of Tokyo, says: 'When I first saw the small humerus, I thought it was a child's bone, but I became curious and was surprised when I looked up its developmental stage.' At just 211-220 millimetres long, this is the smallest hominid humerus ever discovered in an adult hominid. Scientists believe that homo floresiensis (artist's impression) lived on the island of Flores until around 50,000 years ago at which time homo sapiens arrived and likely caused the disappearance of this tool-making human relative By comparing the length of these fossils (pictured) to modern human bones, the researchers estimate that the 700,000 year-old human relative would have been around 1m tall Previously, researchers had discovered teeth and even a jawbone in this area, but the discovery of the humerus opened the door to new analysis. Since it is very difficult to estimate the size of an organism by looking at head bones, researchers didn't know how big the hominins at Mata Menge really were. Co-author Dr Gerrit van de Bergh, of the University of Wollongong, says: 'Initially, we didnt recognize the humerus fragment, which was broken in several pieces, as belonging to a hominin, because we expected that the toolmaker at Mata Menge would be a large-bodied Homo erectus. 'But after painstaking reconstruction by curator Indra Sutisna, the fossil was recognized as a hominin distal humerus fragment, and a very small one for that matter.' By comparing the length of the reconstructed humerus to modern humans and primates, the researchers were able to estimate that these ancient hominins would have been 6cm smaller than homo floresiensis. Researchers had previously found jaw bones and teeth in this area of Flores but had not been able to estimate how large the hominin would have been using these finds. The new discoveries show that these ancient species would have been even smaller than homo floresiensis (pictured) This bone suggests that the hominins living in this part of the island were 6cm shorter than homo floresiensis which would emerge 650,000 years later There are currently two rival theories to explain how homo floresiensis came to live on the island. The first argues that the hominin was a particularly long-surviving relative of an even more ancient African hominin which was very small to begin with. The alternative argues that this species may have descended from a group of homo erectus which emerged on the nearby Java and somehow became trapped on the island and evolved to become significantly smaller. This theory gained some support from the fact that other species on the island exhibit unusual body sizes including tiny elephants and giant rats. However, these latest fossils bear strong similarities to both homo floresiensis and homo erectus. Professor Brumm says: 'The new fossils strongly suggest that the "Hobbit" story did indeed begin when a group of the early Asian hominins known as Homo erectus somehow became isolated on this remote Indonesian island, perhaps one million years ago, and underwent a dramatic body size reduction over time.' This chart compares the teeth of homo floresiensis (left: labelled LB1 and LB6/1), the teeth discovered by the researchers (middle: labelled SOA-MM1 and SOA-MM11) and teeth from homo erectus (right: labelled Sangiran 22). This suggests that the hominins found by the researcher were a midpoint between the two species That discovery shows that homo floresiensis must have evolved its diminutive stature much earlier in its evolutionary history than some researchers had assumed. Given that homo erectus arrived on the island one million years ago, that would only leave around 300,000 years to dramatically shrink. However, the researchers point out that since these early hominids shared the island with fearsome 3m-long komodo dragons for thousands of years, their small stature was clearly not an evolutionary disadvantage. The researchers write: 'This implies that giant reptilians did not represent a serious predation threat for early H. floresiensis or its progenitors. 'The available fossil data imply that small body size had been a functional adaptation for these insular hominins during and slightly beyond the Middle Pleistocene and indeed potentially up until the arrival of H. sapiens [our homo species] on Flores around 50,000 years ago'. A raging battery fire has incinerated a Tesla Cybertruck owner alive just off the east Texas coast, in what's believed to be the first fatal crash for the new electric vehicle. Police reports showed that the fatal incident occurred just outside of Houston at 1:45am local time on Monday. State officials reported that the trendy, but troubled EV burst into flames after crashing into a concrete drainage channel or culvert, leaving the owner's body and truck's license plates and VIN unrecognizable among the char. In addition to these local authorities, the federal National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is also investigating what caused the deadly incident. A raging battery fire has incinerated a Tesla Cybertruck owner alive just off the west Texas coast (above), in what's believed to be the first fatal crash for the new electric vehicle The episode is just one of many harrowing accounts of safety defects with the Cybertruck, which Tesla CEO Elon Musk once touted as 'apocalypse proof,' despite the EV requiring no less than four recalls since it debuted in late November of 2023. While headed west on Cedar Parkway in the Baytown area, the now incinerated Cybertruck veered off the roadway for what authorities described to local CBS affiliate KHOU 11 as 'an unknown reason.' Stalwart fans of the Tesla EV at the Cybertruck Owners Club online forum pushed back on the coverage, with one saying 'They gonna cover the hundreds of car fires per day in the US or just Tesla?' '1:45am?' another user chimed in. 'That's all I need to know.' But scientists and automotive safety experts have drawn attention to the unique thermal might of lithium-ion batteries when engulfed in the flames of a runaway chemical reaction. 'Battery-powered vehicles account for a small share of car fires, but controlling EV fires is difficult,' as Clemson University physicist Dr Apparao Rao and his colleagues explained in a recent essay on the issue. A typical runaway battery fire in an EV burns at a temperature of roughly 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit (2,760 Celsius) half the temperature on the surface of the sun. Most metals, including platinum, titanium and the Cybertruck's own stainless steel, melt at temperatures below 5,000F. According to Dr Rao, the amount of water needed by emergency responded to ultimately put out an EV battery fire of this scope is 20,000 gallons of water: 10-times more than what's required to quench the standard combustion-engine automotive fire. A gas-powered vehicle fire, he and his fellow researchers wrote for The Conversation, only burns at up to 1,500F (815C). Texas state authorities said that the Cybertruck driver could not be identified due to severe burns amid these metal-liquefying temperatures that rendered his over $81,000 electric truck a burnt husk. While the federal National Transportation Safety Bureau has previously taken charge of investigating Tesla crashes, the bureau told local news that it had not yet been contacted for assistance with this case. But its sister agency, NHTSA, which focuses more on faults within vehicles themselves, told reporters that it is seeking further information from Tesla related to flaws in the Cybertruck that may have led to this early Monday death. Texas state safety officials (pictured) reported that the trendy, but troubled EV burst into flames after crashing into a concrete drainage channel or culvert - rendering the owner's body and even his truck's license plates and its VIN unrecognizable among the char In addition to these local authorities, the federal National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is also investigating what caused the deadly incident (above) A typical runaway battery fire in an EV burns at a temperature of roughly 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit (2,760 Celsius) - half the temperature of the surface of the sun. Most metals, including platinum, titanium and the Cybertruck's own stainless steel, melt below 5,000 F In the past year, Musk has pitched his company's Cybertruck as a durable and even Mars-ready space exploration vehicle. The billionaire tech mogul has put the EV to the test in several eye-catching demonstrations, including shots from a Tommy gun, a 45- and nine-millimeter pistol. Late in 2023, shortly after the Cybertruck's launch, the Tesla CEO challenged comedian and podcaster Joe Rogan to attempt to puncture the EV with an arrow. 'Can I shoot it with an arrow? I bet I can get in there,' Rogan said during the 2,054th episode of The Joe Rogan Experience. Musk replied with a laugh: 'Yeah, it will be fine.' (Ultimately, the tip of the arrow smashed against the Cybertruck, failing to penetrate.) Nevertheless, the unusually designed and angular EV has been criticized of leaning into design aesthetics over safety, including sharp-edged trunks and doors that can severe human fingers and other appendages. A Tesla Cybertruck parked next to several other vehicles This past April, Tesla temporarily halted all Cybertruck deliveries citing reports that the vehicle's accelerator pedal could easily become stuck at full speed, a discovery that led to the recall of nearly 4,000 Cybertrucks. But as automotive reporter David Tracy told local news, battery-powered electric vehicles are not more prone to catching fire than conventional gas-powered cars. 'From a flammability standpoint, EVs are not a significantly, more likely type of vehicle to catch fire,' Tracy said. Auto insurance providers with AutoinsuranceEZ, working with public NTSB data, in fact, have found that all-electric vehicles are the least likely automobiles to catch fire in the first place, followed by gas-powered vehicles. Hybrid gas-electric vehicles, their study found, were the most likely to catch fire. 'My sincerest condolences to the family of whoever was in that vehicle,' Tracy added. A new brainteaser claims only people with high IQs can solve it in seven seconds. The goal is to identify which string on the right side of the board leads to the one attached to the banana. It is important to carefully look through the image instead of making a snap decision to decide between four possible strings. These kind of puzzles can tell you a lot about how you think and view the world and can help you develop problem-solving and logical reasoning skills. Only people with high IQs can solve which string is connected to the banana The picture shows a string wrapped around a banana and extending toward a wooden board with four strings labeled '1, 2, 3, 4' on the other side. This answer may not be as simple as you think, with many people believing that the third string is the correct answer, according to Jagran Josh who created the optical illusion. This is because the brain doesn't look at the picture in its entirety, but instead takes shortcuts, skipping over some sections so you can process the information faster. It looks for the most basic information to identify what you're looking at, and guess what the full image is if it isn't complete. In 2011, researchers from the University of Glasgow found that when something is unclear to the eye, the mind will predict what it's going to see and fill in the blanks. 'Effectively, our brains construct an incredibly complex jigsaw puzzle using any pieces it can get access to,' explained researcher Fraser Smith. Therefore, if you look closely at the string options and draw a line between the banana and the board, you'll notice that the second string leads to the fruit. Although most people choose the third string, the correct option is string number two Because we live in a three-dimensional world, optical illusions can fool you because your brain doesn't get the same clues like depth, shading, lighting and position to help interpret what you see that you would get in your everyday life, according to the National Eye Institute. A 2021 study revealed that the 'logic stress and limit stress generated during playing brain teaser games are positive stress, with a desirable effect on the players' attention.' 'These two types of stress improve cognitive abilities such as attention, concentration and problem-solving by activating the brain's frontal lobe,' the study continued to explain. Other studies have shown that brain teasers do play an important role in helping memory and attention span as well as improve problem-solving skills, prevent cognitive decline and increase a person's mental agility - or ability to process information quickly. These types of optical illusions are great tools to use if you want to promote stimulation in the brain and can help build visual and spatial reasoning skills. The puzzle can be used to 'enhance the function of the prefrontal cortex, which plays an important role in cognitive abilities, such as thinking, decision-making, concentration, and problem-solving,' according to the National Institute of Health. 'It's really important to understand we're not seeing reality,' neuroscientist Patrick Cavanagh, a research professor at Dartmouth College told Vox in 2020. 'We're seeing a story that's being created for us.' Paul Hogan's troubled grandson gave authorities a bizarre home address before going on the run from police, and has had a falling out with a loved one who served as his get out of jail card. Jake Hogan, the drug addict grandson of the Crocodile Dundee star, failed to turn up in a Sydney court on fresh drug and crime charges last Friday, prompting a magistrate to issue a bench warrant for his arrest. The 33-year-old former tradie turned drug addict had been apprehended by police allegedly carrying a small quantity of meth and home-breaking implements about midnight on July 26 in the inner Sydney suburb of Glebe. When he was taken to a city police station and charged, Hogan gave his home address as a GP's doctor's surgery in the inner-western suburb of Sydenham. Hogan was then granted bail. But he did not appear at Sydney's Downing Centre Court - where he had a high risk of returning to custody - when required last week. It has been just three months since a tearful Jake was given a lifeline when his father made a mercy dash from New Zealand and volunteered to help him to rebuild his life. Todd Hogan, one of the five children of comedy legend Paul and his first wife Pauline, flew in to support Jake while he served out a community sentence for breaking into apartment blocks to fuel his drug habit and breaching a restraining order. But a well-placed source told Daily Mail Australia that Jake swiftly fell into disagreement with his dad and deserted the rehabilitation plan set in place by the court. The grandson of Hollywood legend Paul Hogan, Jake Hogan (above) is in trouble again and has had a disagreement with his father, sources say The arrival of Jake's dad Todd Hogan in Australia (above with his sister Lana at court in May) convinced a magistrate to free Jake from prison, but it appears the former tradie fell out with his family shortly after his release Deputy Chief Magistrate Sharon Freund had told Todd Hogan and Jake's sister Lara at that last hearing in May that she was more inclined to release Jake from behind bars because of the family's show of strength. Jake's grandfather Paul Hogan, above, as Crocodile Dundee She said Todd Hogan's agreement to come back and live in Australia while his son served a community-based order was 'huge'. 'This is a young man who needs some scaffolding. He totally has the opportunity to turn his life around,' the magistrate said. She ordered Jake to attend rehab and counselling and abstain from alcohol and drugs. The magistrate gave him a stern warning that if he breached the conditions of his Intensive Corrections Order, he could go back into jail, 'and nobody wants that'. However it now seems likely he will go to jail given the current charges against him of possessing 1.5g of methamphetamine and possessing housebreaking implements. It is unclear where Jake may have been living with his father on release, and whether Todd Hogan is still in Australia or may have subsequently returned to his family in New Zealand. Todd was married to Jake's mother Marie when Jake was still a teenager before an event which friends say deeply traumatised Jake. Marie suffered a 'very sad' decline leading up to her death from multiple sclerosis when Jake was aged 17 in 2006. Jake Hogan and his father Todd Hogan in Sydney in happier times before the former carpenter allegedly began taking methamphetamine and breaking into homes Jake Hogan gave his home address to police as a doctor's surgery the Sydney suburb of Sydenham (above). It is unknown where he currently is Jake's grandfather Paul Hogan - above with his second wife Linda Kozlowski in 2013 - found Hollywood stardom for his role as Crocodile Dundee Upon Marie's death, Paul Hogan made his own mercy dash from California - where he was living with second wife Linda Kozlowski and their young son, Chance - to attend his daughter-in-law's funeral. Todd eventually remarried, to registered nurse Jane, and Jake remained in Sydney and appeared to lead a normal life, beginning a relationship with a young mother called Racheal Young. Jake had some substance abuse issues, but when his relationship broke down and his hopes of having his own family disappeared he 'became seriously addicted to drugs that just completely took over his life', Daily Mail Australia has previously reported. Jake Hogan with his ex-girlfriend Rachel Young Jake has been previously been convicted of several drug and break and enter charges and possession of implements, namely Trojan brand wire cutters, a black torch, Allen keys and an adjustable wrench. Last Friday, after approving of the arrest warrant, Magistrate Clare Farnan told the court she had found the latest alleged offences 'proven' and that Hogan was due to return to court on August 28. Hogan faces up to two years in prison for the offences. Aimee Lou Wood has revealed that the producers of White Lotus 3 didn't like her American accent and asked her to stick with her native Manchester twang instead. The Sex Education actress, 29, revealed that she did several auditions in her usual voice and in an American accent but in the end, the producers opted for her Manchester tone. The star had her breakout role in the hit Netflix coming of age drama and has since gone on to star in films including The Electrical Life of Louis Wain, Seize Them! and Living. But the actress is now taking on a huge role in season three of the hit HBO series The White Lotus. However, despite the success of filming, Aimee revealed that she got off to a rocky start. Aimee Lou Wood, 29, has revealed that the producers of The White Lotus didn't like her American accent and asked her to stick with her native Manchester twang instead (pictured December 8) The Sex Education actress revealed that she did several auditions in her usual voice and in an American accent but in the end, the producers opted for her Manchester tone In an interview with Radio Times, the star also revealed that while she was at drama school she had been advised to tone down her accent but has since found that people love it She explained: 'My character was meant to be American and then I did a self-tape, one in an American accent and one in my own. They were like, Yeah, we want your own voice, so my character is going to be from Manchester!' In an interview with Radio Times, the star also revealed that while she was at drama school she had been advised to tone down her accent but has since found that people love it. She told the magazine: 'They [RADA] said Received Pronunciation was going to be the main accent we needed, so I should know when to dial my accent down, but thats not been the case at all if anything, people ask me to amp it up!' The Bafta-winning actress has been keeping fans up to date on her White Lotus filming journey and shared two snaps to her Instagram Stories on Sunday to share that filming had officially wrapped. In one photo the tsar posted a blurry close-up with the caption: 'Last day white' followed by a lotus flower emoji. In another picture, she shared a sweet snap of herself with Patrick Schwarzenegger, holding a bunch of flowers with one arm draped over the actor, The Bafta-winning actress has been keeping fans up to date on her White Lotus filming journey and shared two snaps to her Instagram Stories on Sunday to share that filming had officially wrapped Aimee is also set to star in a new BBC3 comedy called Daddy Issues, where she plays Gemma, a girl who becomes pregnant after a one-night stand and has to seek support from her clueless father The full interview and more including a chat with Olympian Jessica Ennis Hill will be available from Tuesday The first look at The White Lotus season three introduces a star-studded cast, including Parker Posey, Jason Isaacs, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Sarah Catherine Hook and Sam Nivola Aimee is also set to star in a new BBC3 comedy called Daddy Issues, where she plays Gemma, a girl who becomes pregnant after a one-night stand and has to seek support from her clueless father. She described the role as a coming-home and revealed she enjoyed filming in Manchester, surrounded by people with similar accents rather than feeling the need to hide it. The actress has had a busy few months and alongside her television and film work, she has also been recognised for her role in Cabaret which she said was a very trying role to take on. During the interview with Radio Times, she said: 'I felt like I was naked on stage. Afterwards, people would say I was great, and I was thinking, I wasnt pretending, I was actually just screaming and crying and having a breakdown. But the work was worth it and the actress was recognised with another award, this time for Best Takeover at the What's On Awards. The actress, who hails from Stockport has made an impact in Hollywood after fans went wild for a teaser trailer for the next season of White Lotus. The first look at season three introduces a star-studded cast, including Parker Posey, Jason Isaacs, and Patrick Schwarzenegger. HBO Max released a teaser clip for its 2024-'25 season on Sunday, featuring new upcoming content as well as some of their returning shows. The new set of vacationers embark on a luxurious Thai getaway. 'What happens in Thailand, stays in Thailand,' a female voice narrates Among them was a first look at the critically acclaimed series, which follows a new set of vacationers as they embark on a luxurious Thai getaway. The new season, which is set to be released in 2025, starts off with a cinematic shot of a pool at a new White Lotus resort, before showing the five new cast members walking together. 'What happens in Thailand, stays in Thailand,' a female voice narrates. Three vacationers are then seen relaxing on pool loungers, before the clip cuts to a scene of two boxers fighting it out. There is also a brief look at Rothwell, as she arrives at the resort wearing a floral dress. Rothwell played Belinda Lindsey in the first season of The White Lotus. Her character was the spa manager at the Hawaiian resort. Following the announcement, excited fans took to Twitter, with one writing, 'Omg I can't wait!!!!' 'I'm completely hooked on The White Lotus series! It's like a thrilling escape with the perfect blend of drama, humor, and intrigue. So excited for #TheWhiteLotusS3,' another added. 'I'm ready holy s**t,' someone else chimed in, while yet another person wrote, 'Can't wait.' Brittany Cartwright has been enjoying spending time with The Bachelorette star Tanner Courtad as her estranged husband Jax Taylor has been seeking treatment at a mental health facility all the while cameras are rolling for season two of The Valley. Jax, 45, checked himself into an in-patient facility last week and not only is he allegedly still in the Los Angeles area, a source claimed to DailyMail.com, but is also still in communication with his 35-year-old wife, whom he's separated from, and his three-year-old son, Cruz. 'He's still in communication with Brittany and his son,' a source exclusively revealed to DailyMail.com. The source went on to say that, at this point in time, it's not known how long the Vanderpump Rules alum will be in treatment. 'He is unsure how long he will be staying. It'll be however long he needs,' the source added. Jax Taylor is still 'in communication' with his son Cruz and estranged wife Brittany Cartwright while in mental health facility Another source spilled, 'Brittany's priority is taking care of their son while Jax is away, and she is making sure Cruz still gets to speak to his father.' Brittany and Jax announced their separation in February after nearly five years of marriage. She has since moved out of their $1.9 million Valley Village home and into an Airbnb. 'Brittany is supportive of Jax seeking treatment. She has been begging him to get therapy for years, so she's glad he's finally decided to get help for his mental health struggles,' a source told DailyMail.com. The former couple are 'putting a pause' on any talk of next steps, per the source. 'Jax and Brittany have put a pause on their relationship. They are still separated and dealing with their marital problems. 'Now it's about Jax getting help for his mental health before they can continue their conversation about their marriage and what's next,' the source shared. DailyMail.com has reached out to Cartwright's representatives who declined to comment. Meanwhile, Brittany is holding down the fort at Jax's Studio City, hosting weekly The Bachelorette watch parties with pals Tom Schwartz, Jasmine Goode and Charity Lawson. Taylor and Cartwright are 'putting a pause' on any talk of next steps, per the source; pictured April 2024 Cartwright and Taylor welcomed their son Charity, who was the lead for season 20 of The Bachelorette, 'played a part' in introducing one of her former suitors, Tanner Courtad, to Brittany, according to a source who spoke exclusively with DailyMail.com. Brittany and Tanner 'have been hanging out together' ever since they met at The Bachelorette watch party for Jenn Tran's season on July 15 at Jax's Studio City. Tanner, 31, then attended another watch party with the reality star the following week on July 22 and 'has been tagging along as Brittany films The Valley,' per the source. 'They recently filmed at Dave and Buster's with the rest of the cast for Janet [Caperna's] birthday.' The Kentucky native, who had Tanner on her August 2 podcast When Reality Hits with Jax & Brittany, is reportedly 'a lot happier,' and has even lost some weight in recent weeks. Cartwright has recently paid off her $35k tax debt, DailyMail.com can exclusively report 'Brittany has been happier lately and less stressed, and her happiness is contributing to her eating healthier and living a healthy lifestyle,' the source revealed. 'Separation and the time apart from Jax has been a really good thing for her for sure.' Another reason why she might be 'less stressed' is because she has recently paid off her $35k tax debt, DailyMail.com can exclusively report. Documents obtained by DailyMail.com reveal a release on Brittany's state tax lien for $35,239.88 was filed by the Franchise Tax Board of the State of California on July 26, 2024, just over a month after she was slapped with the lien. DailyMail.com previously reported that she was hit with the tax lien on June 12, 2024, months after she was forced to move out of her marital home she once shared with Jax. Jax did not leave their 3,765-square-foot five-bedroom mansion in San Fernando Valley, which they purchased in 2019. Meanwhile, Brittany is holding down the fort at Jax's Studio City, hosting weekly The Bachelorette watch parties with pals Tom Schwartz, Jasmine Goode and Charity Lawson; pictured at The Valley premiere party 'I knew that he wasn't gonna leave so I had to leave,' Brittany confessed last season of The Valley. 'It was too toxic of a situation, especially for my son.' Jax, for his part, took to his Instagram while in treatment to inform his fans that he was in a wellness facility to get better for his little boy. 'Working on getting better for you and myself buddy, I love you,' he captioned a photo of himself kissing Cruz. A rep for Jax told TMZ, 'Jax has always been candid about his mental health struggles, especially during the past few months on his podcast. 'He has made the decision to seek in-patient treatment. This is a particularly sensitive time for him and his family. They ask for privacy and respect until he is ready to speak more on this matter.' Jessica Rowe has opened up about her traumatic exit from Channel Nine in 2007 and how news leaked of her sacking on the eve of the Logie Awards. The 54-year-old veteran journalist was not invited to the red carpet that year, and she woke to find a media scrum on her doorstep. 'This was way before Instagram and TikTok and all of that. It was all over the newspapers that I was going to be leaving the Today Show,' she recalled on Monday's episode of the Jess Rowe Big Talk Show. 'And at the time, I was really shocked because it wasn't meant to be released until a few days later. So I wasn't prepared.' Adding to Jess' woes was that her husband, Channel Nine star Peter Overton, ended up being confronted with questions on the Logie Awards red carpet about his wife's sacking. Elsewhere in the podcast, Jess explained how she attempted to escape media scrutiny the morning after the awards. At the time Jess and Peter had just welcomed their daughter Allegra. 'I remember that morning I could hear outside our front gate, all of these sort of cameramen and all these sort of footsteps,' she continued. Jessica Rowe has opened up about her traumatic exit from Channel Nine in 2007 when news leaked of her sacking on the eve of the Logie Awards. Pictured: Jessica Rowe in 2024 'And I was thinking,''my goodness''...and I plastered this big smile on my face, whereas on the inside I was just thinking, my goodness, my world has sort of crumbled.' 'I was then trying to get Allegra into the car...but there I was attempting to do that when I had all of these cameras on me and all these people asking me questions.' 'All I could do was smile, even though on the inside I just felt like my world had fallen apart. And then I remember I finally got Allegra in [the car] and then I got into the front.' 'And as I drove around the corner, away from the cameras, I remember just bursting into tears and having these tears streaming down my face thinking, ''my goodness, what is going to become of me?'' Of course, at that time, it was all new for me. I was someone who had defined herself through her career.' Jess also recalled how only a year earlier she had hosted the red carpet. The 54-year-old veteran journalist was not invited to the red carpet that year, and she woke to find a media scrum on her doorstep. Pictured: Jess (R) and Karl Stefanovic (L) on Today. Jessica left the show in 2007 following her return from maternity leave In 2006, Jessica was thrust into the spotlight when she moved from Channel 10 to the Nine Network to replace Tracy Grimshaw as co-host of the Today show. But scandal struck when Nine's chief executive Eddie McGuire allegedly asked when he could 'bone' Jessica, with reports suggesting at the time he meant to 'sack' her. He reportedly made the comments during a conversation with his then deputy Jeffrey Browne and Nine's head of news and current affairs, Mark Llewellyn. 'What are we going to do about Jessica? When should we bone her? I reckon it should be next week,' McGuire had reportedly asked. The veteran journalist said it was 'all over the newspapers' that she out of the Today show the morning after the 2007 Logies Llewellyn then allegedly told McGuire the network might risk also losing Jessica's husband, Nine News reporter Peter Overton, if they sacked her. McGuire is said to have replied, 'Maybe we have to take that risk,' before Browne added: 'She's a laughing stock and if we keep her on air we'll be the laughing stock.' McGuire has since denied using the term 'bone' in the conversation, which was laid out by Llewellyn's sworn affidavit (made public after he left the network for rival station Seven). Jessica left the Today show in 2007 following her return from maternity leave. At the time, she cited payment issues as the reason for her departure. Adding to Jess' woes was that her husband, Channel Nine star Peter Overton, ended up being confronted with questions on the Logie Awards red carpet about his wife's sacking She then joined Channel Seven as a presenter for Seven News in Sydney, before taking part in Dancing with the Stars. Jessica moved to Weekend Sunrise in late 2010 and stayed there for three years. In 2013, she signed with Network Ten and hosted morning show Studio 10 alongside Ita Buttrose, Joe Hildebrand, Sarah Harris and Denise Drysdale. In March 2018, she announced she was resigning from the program to spend more time with her family. Jess and her husband, Channel Nine news anchor Peter Overton, have been married since 2004 and share daughters Allegra, 17, and Giselle, 15. Jess moved on to Channel Seven in 2010 after her untimely exit from Nine In 2023, Jessica told Stellar's podcast Something to Talk About, she did not regret her time on Nine's breakfast show. 'I look back on that time and I can feel my stomach churning it's so visceral. It was the pits. But at the same time I don't regret it,' she said. 'And because I'm a huge believer in grabbing opportunities, we only have one shot at life. And when amazing things come your way, you've got to give it a crack. So I was determined to give it my best shot.' Aussie superstar Hugh Jackman has revealed the location of the secret hideaway where he gets away from it all. The Wolverine star, 55, took to his Instagram Stories on Monday to share a tranquil shot of an infinity pool set amid lush Australian bush. In the caption for the idyllic snap, Hugh spilled on its location, writing, 'shout out to @gwinganna. A really special health retreat in Australia that I'm keen to visit again. And again,' the actor wrote. Hugh was recharging his batteries at the Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, located on a high plateau on more than 500 acres of picturesque land in the Tallebudgera Valley in Queensland. Gwinganna explicitly bans guests from indulging in cigarettes, drugs, alcohol and even caffeinated drinks on the property. It seems to be the perfect place for Hugh to unwind, with the retreat's website claiming to provide a 'cocoon' from the stresses of the real world. 'Our retreat is specifically designed to assist you during any withdrawals from the world in a beautifully isolated environment, providing a cocoon from external distractions and stress,' the site claims. It also promises rejuvenating spa experiences, invigorating movement sessions, and moments of profound relaxation. Aussie superstar Hugh Jackman has revealed the location of the secret hideaway where he gets away from it all The Wolverine star, 55, took to his Instagram Stories on Monday to share a tranquil shot of an infinity pool set amid lush Australian bush Visitors are also able to choose from an array of accommodation options, from open-plan and split-level villas to meditation and wellness suits. When it comes to the price a two night stay in one of the retreat's premium villas is going to set you back $2,420 for a 2 bed single, with a seven-night stay running at $8,160. Two nights in one of the more affordable Heritage Houses is going to cost between $1,350 and $1,765. Hugh was recharging his batteries at the Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, located on a high plateau on more than 500 acres of picturesque land in the Tallebudgera Valley in Queensland It seems to be the perfect place for Hugh to unwind, with the retreat's website claiming to provide a 'cocoon' from the stresses of the real world Aside from the well appointed rooms and lush setting, the retreat also offers a range of activities including a wellness spa, massages, facials, cooking demonstrations and wellness seminars. The Hollywood star took to Instagram recently to share that his former high school music teacher Brian Buggy passed away at the age of 83 on Tuesday. Alongside a precious photo of Mr Buggy hard at work leading an orchestra, Hugh shared his devastation as he paid tribute to the influential teacher. Visitors are also able to choose from an array of accommodation options, from open-plan and split-level villas to meditation and wellness suits When it comes to the price a two night stay in one of the retreat's premium villas is going to set you back $2,420 for a 2 bed single, with a seven-night stay running at $8,160 He told how Mr Buggy first fostered his love of music, which he has taken into his career, showcasing his singing talents in Les Miserables and The Greatest Showman. 'I want to pay tribute to Brian, OAM,' Hugh penned in a touching message. 'He was in charge of music at Knox High School. He taught me, and literally thousands of students across the years, a deep love and joy for music.' 'That love has stayed with me all my life. His lessons were filled with humour and he effortlessly held a room in the palm of his hand. 'To Brian's family, I send my deepest condolences, immense respect and unending gratitude.' Controversial influencer Georgie Stevenson has deleted several posts from her Instagram Stories on Monday after receiving complaints from followers. The Gold Coast-based beauty entrepreneur, 30, shared several photos of her visiting a dolphin exhibit at Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary, which ruffled some feathers. Celebrity watchdog account Influencer.Updates.Au later confirmed Georgie had taken down the photographs after fans alleged the dolphins were being mistreated. 'Georgie Stevenson deleted her stories yesterday after Warrior For Animals advised her of the poor treatment of the dolphins at Coffs Harbour wildlife sanctuary. She is now following the page,' they claimed. They shared the public complaint that Georgie allegedly received from WFA, which read: 'I have politely reached over to Georgie to ask her to stop promoting cruel dolphin captivity. 'These dolphins are in tiny pools and forced to perform and give rides, which is why we regularly protest. 'You can see the dolphins are in a gross pool and the other pool is clean, and that's where they are forced to perform.' Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Coffs Harbour, NSW, and features a variety of rescued and injured animals that cannot be released back into the wild. Controversial Gold Coast based influencer Georgie Stevenson (pictured) deleted several posts from her Instagram Stories on Monday, after receiving complaints from followers The beauty entrepreneur shared photos of her visiting the dolphins at Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary - which ruffled some feathers According to their website, they 'work closely with the Zoo and Aquarium Association (ZAA) to ensure our animals' welfare remains positive in the absence of our females rearing young. Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary for comment. It is not the first time Georgie has come under fire over the past year. In September 2023, the influencer sparked backlash after sharing a shocking theory on her health and wellness podcast, Rise & Conquer. In the episode, which was later deleted, Georgie and her producer Atiyya Batty discussed whether or not 'getting sick is a choice'. 'She believes that getting sick is a choice... and your body gets presented with the virus and your subconscious chooses whether it wants to take the upgrade or not,' Batty told Stevenson. 'Oh my god, I one hundred per cent believe this!' Georgie exclaimed. The episode sparked a wave of backlash, with one listener writing: 'Cool, they can tell that to my lupus. What a dangerous rhetoric. My god.' TikToker David Allen aka ToTouchAnEmu announced Sunday that his daughter Lily Grace Allen tragically passed away at only five weeks old. The grieving 35-year-old told TMZ on Monday that the tiny infant died at midnight on July 27 'in her sleep unexpectedly.' David - who has 11.7M social media followers - Instastoried a couple of heartbreaking snaps of little Lily captioned: 'Daddy will miss you forever baby.' Allen said that welcoming his only child on June 21 with wife - pharmacist Jessica Bird - was 'the coolest thing I ever did.' 'I have cried every tear I can possibly cry I think. It's not easy. I don't wish this on anybody,' the content creator said behind sunglasses. TikToker David Allen aka ToTouchAnEmu announced Sunday that his daughter Lily Grace Allen tragically passed away at only five weeks old The grieving 35-year-old told TMZ on Monday that the tiny infant died at midnight on July 27 'in her sleep unexpectedly' 'I don't even really know what to say. I've waited a week to even mention it because I didn't know how to talk about it. So yeah I don't know what else to say. I just wanted to get it out there I guess.' At the link of his online bios, David listed a P.O. Box in Bedford, TX where saddened fans can send condolences and they can also send donations to Children's Medical Center Dallas in her name. 'Or just go hug your little one. Squeeze them tight for me,' Allen continued. 'Um her memorial is going to be on the sixth of August at [Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home & Memorial Park] in Collyville, TX. Don't show up if you're not invited but if you want to send flowers or card I guess you can do that too. I don't know what else to say.' The drone enthusiast originally went viral in the summer of 2021 for shaking his rear end in a TikTok video, which has amassed 333M views. David - who has 11.7M social media followers - Instastoried a couple of heartbreaking snaps of little Lily captioned: 'Daddy will miss you forever baby' Allen said that welcoming his only child on June 21 with wife - pharmacist Jessica Bird (R) - was 'the coolest thing I ever did' The content creator said: 'I have cried every tear I can possibly cry I think. It's not easy. I don't wish this on anybody. I don't even really know what to say. I've waited a week to even mention it because I didn't know how to talk about it. So yeah I don't know what else to say. I just wanted to get it out there I guess' At the link of his online bios, David listed a P.O. Box in Bedford, TX where saddened fans can send condolences and they can also send donations to Children's Medical Center Dallas in her name: 'Or just go hug your little one. Squeeze them tight for me' Allen continued: 'Um her memorial is going to be on the sixth of August at [Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home & Memorial Park] in Collyville, TX. Don't show up if you're not invited but if you want to send flowers or card I guess you can do that too. I don't know what else to say' Renee Zellweger was forced to stop filming Bridget Jones 4 after bats halted the production in the Lake District. The actress, 55, and the film crew headed up to Keswick to continue filming the sequel in woodland area. But filming was abruptly stopped when bat experts raised concerns about the local bat population and how they were being affected by filming. A source told The Sun: 'Filming ended up being paused by some bat experts who raised concerns about the local bat population and how they could be affected. 'Apparently they were worried about whether the bats could be disturbed, which made for a right old headache. Renee Zellweger, 55, was forced to stop filming Bridget Jones 4 after bats halted the production in the Lake District The actress and the film crew headed up to Keswick to continue filming the sequel in woodland area (pictured in 2004 Bridget Jones The Edge Of Reason) 'An agreement was reached but it has become a running joke on the set. In the middle of fields in the Lake District, no one expected any issues.' Colin Firth fans rejoice as Mark Darcy is to be reunited with Bridget Jones after all, The Mail on Sunday can reveal. When Firth's name was absent from the cast list of the forthcoming movie about the world's most famous singleton, fans feared his character had been killed off. That was certainly his fate in Helen Fielding's novels, where he marries Bridget, but dies while working abroad as a human rights lawyer. However, in these exclusive photographs from the set of Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy, Renee, who plays Jones, is seen lovingly interacting with her co-star Firth, 63. Wearing Darcy's trademark suit and tie, Firth tenderly places his hand upon the cheek of his co-star, who is in an emerald dress and leather boots. Because Fielding's Mad About The Boy novel had Bridget navigating life as a widow four years after Darcy's death, Firth's return is a huge surprise, which film bosses were desperate to keep under wraps. A source said: 'Colin was always going to appear in the movie but it was supposed to be a secret.' It's not the first time tragedy has beset the fictional diarist. In the last movie, Bridget Jones's Baby, she is seen attending the memorial of her other on-off love Daniel Cleaver, played by Hugh Grant, who is presumed dead after a plane crash. He is later found alive. But filming was abruptly stopped when bat experts raised concerns about the local bat population and how they were being affected by filming Bridget (played by Renee Zellweger) and Mr Darcy (portrayed by Colin Firth) nose to nose in Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason In the last movie, Bridget Jones's Baby, she is seen attending the memorial of her other on-off love Daniel Cleaver, played by Hugh Grant , who is presumed dead after a plane crash Former flame Daniel Cleaver, and a young man named Rockstar played by Leo Woodhall (pictured as Dexter in One Day) will face off for Bridget's love Fans will have to be patient to find out whether Darcy will be so lucky, or is simply appearing in a dream sequence. The Mail on Sunday revealed earlier this year that Jones will face a three-way battle for her affections between Cleaver, a much younger man named Rockstar, played by One Day heartthrob Leo Woodall, and 12 Years A Slave star Chiwetel Ejiofor's character, Mr Walker. Bridget, now a mother of two, will become smitten with Mr Walker, who teaches PE at her son's school, before diverting her attentions to the hunky Rockstar, who she meets on social media. The Mail on Sunday previously revealed that Bridget will give up her famous bachelorette pad in London's Borough Market in favour of a family home in leafy Hampstead, North London, where so many scenes have been filmed in the past few months. In the film, due out on Valentine's Day next year, Bridget also quits her job working in television to do the school run, with comical scenes expected as she struggles to keep up with the Yummy Mummies. The character of Mark Darcy is said to have been inspired by Keir Starmer when he was working as a human rights lawyer in the 1990s. It is a rumour the new Prime Minister has never denied. Romee Strijd was every bit the blonde bombshell as she headed inside Fouquet's Hotel in Manhattan's Tribeca neighborhood on Monday after a modeling shoot. The 29-year-old IMG Model opted for a leggy look in the Big Apple wearing a khaki shirt-dress, brown handbag, and classic black loafers. Romee - who was wearing a gold band on her left-ring finger - had a flawless complexion with a little bit of liner and pink lipstick, and she had a high-volume flaxen mane. Strijd had been speaking with a silver-haired photographer, who embraced her before she headed inside the hotel. The former Victoria's Secret Angel fronts fashion brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Gucci, Dior, Balmain, and Roberto Cavalli. Romee Strijd was every bit the blonde bombshell as she headed inside Fouquet's Hotel in Manhattan's Tribeca neighborhood on Monday after a modeling shoot Romee was only 13 in 2009 when she was first scouted on the streets of Amsterdam, but she didn't sign with DNA Model Management and begin her career until 2011. Back in 2018, Strijd maintained her slim 5ft11in figure by training with Dogpound founder KT Myers, telling Grazia Magazine: 'I actually like full body workouts. Doing bodyweight exercises like lunges, squats, planks. I like strength building as well.' The Airbnb brand ambassador has since welcomed two daughters - Mint van Leeuwen, 3; and June van Leeuwen, 20 months - with her manager-turned-fiance, Laurens van Leeuwen. The Dutch couple - who got engaged in 2022 and have yet to walk down the aisle - celebrated their 14th anniversary as a couple on January 11. Romee originally met the 33-year-old business consultant in 2010 through his sister when she was 15 and he was 19. Laurens serves as managing partner of the clothing and jewelry brand, Naetur, which Strijd founded in 2020. Van Leeuwen also co-founded PartyPants, which sells eighties retro shorts with 'ultra-deep' pockets specifically designed for EDM festivals. Laurens is also the nepo-baby of popular Netherlands presenter Bert van Leeuwen, best known for hosting Family Dinner. Romee - who boasts 11.1M social media followers - is also an in-demand influencer with paid partnerships for resorts like Mondrian Ibiza and Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay, and One&Only Aesthesis. The 29-year-old IMG Model opted for a leggy look in the Big Apple wearing a khaki shirt-dress, brown handbag, and classic black loafers Romee - who was wearing a gold band on her left-ring finger - had a flawless complexion with a little bit of liner and pink lipstick, and she had a high-volume flaxen mane Strijd had been speaking with a silver-haired photographer, who embraced her before she headed inside the hotel The former Victoria's Secret Angel fronts fashion brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Gucci, Dior, Balmain, and Roberto Cavalli Romee has two daughters - Mint van Leeuwen, 3; and June van Leeuwen, 20 months - with her manager-turned-fiance, Laurens van Leeuwen (pictured May 31) The Dutch couple - who got engaged in 2022 and have yet to walk down the aisle - celebrated their 14th anniversary as a couple on January 11 The Airbnb brand ambassador originally met the 33-year-old business consultant (L, pictured June 23) in 2010 through his sister when she was 15 and he was 19 Efron, 36, was taken to medical facility in wake of frightening incident Zac Efron was hospitalized in Ibiza this past weekend after he dove deep into a pool at a villa in Ibiza early Saturday, with his chest striking the pool's bottom, leading to him ingesting water in his lungs. Insiders told TMZ on Monday that the 36-year-old actor dove into the pool during an outing with friends on the Spanish island. The San Luis Obispo, California-born entertainer had taken in 'a large amount of water into his lungs' after he made contact with the bottom of the pool. The Iron Claw leading man had 'showed signs of distress' in the wake of the incident, sources told the outlet, at which point security officials rushed in to assist him. The High School Musical alum had been 'momentarily dazed' and subsequently transported to a medical facility 'as a precautionary measure,' sources told the outlet. Zac Efron, 36, was hospitalized in Ibiza this past weekend after he dove deep into a pool at a villa in Ibiza early Saturday, with his chest striking the pool's bottom and ingesting water in his lungs. Pictured in LA in June Efron appeared to be on the mend in the wake of the incident, as he was pictured exercising on social media in the wake of the scary incident Medical officials examined Efron with X-rays to his chest in an effort to determine that his lungs were clear of water, insiders told the outlet. Efron had been medically cleared by doctors, but took his time departing the medical facility after a group of photographers in the area had learned he was there and congregated outside. Efron on Sunday took to Instagram Stories with an image of himself working out at a resort, as he lifted dumbbells while balancing on an exercise ball. The actor updated fans on his condition after his hospital trip, saying, 'Happy and healthy - thanks for the well wishes.' Efron was spotted out dining on Sunday evening in Ibiza and was back in the U.S. as of Monday, according to the outlet. A source previously revealed to TMZ that the actor was 'found inside the swimming pool by two people working at the villa who pulled him out of the water.' Efron's representative confirmed to the outlet that the actor was hospitalized 'as a precautionary measure' following the 'minor' incident and is 'recovering just fine;' as he was released from the hospital on Saturday morning. DailyMail.com has reached out to the former teen idol's representative for comment. Efron's representative was asked why he needed to be hospitalized if the issue was merely a minor one; in reply, the rep once again stated the hospital visit was just a precaution. Insiders told TMZ on Monday that the 36-year-old actor dove into the pool during an outing with friends on the Spanish island The actor has past shared his experiences participating in extreme sports, including dives, via his social media accounts; pictured in March of 2022 The Disney Channel alum was seen behind the wheel of an ATV in March of 2022 Ahead of the incident, he joined Dutch DJ, Martin Garrix, on stage during one of his shows. The Disney Channel alum has been spending time in Ibiza and Europe over the past few weeks: Two weeks ago, he spent an afternoon on a yacht with pals in Ibiza after a recent getaway to St. Tropez earlier in the month. The actor has past shared his experiences participating in extreme sports, including dives, via his social media accounts. The incident comes more than a decade after he 'shattered' his jaw in 2013 after he slipped on a pair of socks while running at his home, which caused him to smash his chin into a granite fountain. In 2022, he told Men's Health Magazine that he lost consciousness only to wake up with 'his chin bone hanging off his face.' Efron said that when he was injured, the masseter muscles on the inside of his face and jaw then 'compensated' for his injury causing them to grow in size - hence his remarkable transformation. He says this explains why he looked so different at the time. 'The masseters just grew. They just got really, really big.' Following the accident, Efron has been at the center of plastic surgery rumors, but the hunky actor the star insisted that the changes are just the result of shattering his jaw. The San Luis Obispo, California-born entertainer had taken in 'a large amount of water into his lungs' after he made contact with the bottom of the pool (pictured in 2024) The Disney Channel alum, pictured in June in LA, has been spending time Ibiza and Europe over the past few weeks The incident comes more than a decade after he 'shattered' his jaw after he slipped on a pair of socks while running at his home, which caused him to smash his chin into a granite fountain The Gold actor also claimed to not know that he was a huge talking point on social media and had in fact gone viral for his different-looking jaw, until his mother called to ask if he had gone under the knife. 'If I valued what other people thought of me to the extent that they may think I do,' he told the magazine, 'I definitely wouldn't be able to do this work.' In April 2021, Efron started trending on Twitter after he was seen on a video for Earth Day! The Musical displaying a more prominent square chin and heavier jawline. In the clip, Efron eagerly called Bill Nye a 'genius' after hearing that he and Justin Bieber were working on a fictional Earth Day musical. It led fans to speculate that the handsome star had sought plastic surgery. Efron's pal Kyle Sandilands had also spoke on his behalf - saying the Baywatch star would never do such a thing, comparing him to an oil painting by one of the Old Masters. The Australian radio host, who has known Zac for years, shut down speculation during The Kyle and Jackie O Show at the time. 'I would know if he'd had any plastic surgery,' Kyle declared, before telling his co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson that 'of course' Zac hadn't had work done. He then said it would be pointless for the High School Musical heart-throb to have surgery because he's already so good looking: 'It's like getting a Picasso and having a kid finger paint all over it. Why bother?' Last month, fans once again raised questions about his appearance after watching his new Netflix film, A Family Affair, alongside Nicole Kidman. Chris Hemsworth was left red-faced on Monday after he shared the cringeworthy results of the shock haircut he gave his ten-year-old twin sons Sasha and Tristan. The Marvel action star, 40, posted a photo to Instagram which showcased his twin sons rocking their daggy hairdos, after receiving a poor quality bowl cut from their famous dad. The boys looked absolutely humiliated in the surprising photo, which Chris captioned with some hilarious words: 'Hairdressing has always been my one true passion. 'You can see the results speak for themselves,' he wrote and added a laughing emoji. Many of Hemsworth's followers quickly took to the comment section to express their thoughts over the hilarious photo. 'Hemsworth scissorhands,' wrote radio star Lauren Phillips while Isla Fisher added: 'Haahhahahah'. 'THIS is why Thor was crying,' a third person chipped in. 'Fortunately for them horrible hair cuts is the latest fashion,' another person joked. Chris Hemsworth (pictured) was left red-faced on Monday after he shared the cringeworthy results of the shock haircut he gave his ten-year-old twin sons Sasha and Tristan Chris and his glamorous Spanish wife Elsa Pataky tied the knot during the Christmas holidays in 2010. The couple live in a $30million mansion in Broken Head near Byron Bay after relocating from Los Angeles to Australia nine years ago. They share three children, daughter India Rose, 12, and their twin sons Sasha and Tristan. Chris enjoys spending quality time with his two boys and is often seen taking them on little surfing trips to local beaches near Byron Bay. The Marvel action star, 40, posted a shocking photo to Instagram which showcased his twin sons rocking their daggy new hairdos, after receiving a poor quality bowlcut from their famous dad Many of Hemsworth's followers quickly took to the comment section to express their thoughts over the hilarious photo The former Home and Away star also encourages them to do other activities like mountain-biking and skateboarding. His children look to be following in their famous father's footsteps, with both Sasha and India filming cameo roles alongside their dad in the 2022 blockbuster Thor: Love and Thunder. In 2021, Elsa revealed that she and Chris have a very simple trick for keeping their marriage happy and healthy - laughter. Speaking to Hola! magazine, she said said that the Thor actor has a knack for diffusing any argument with a joke. 'We enjoy doing the same stuff and Chris has a great sense of humour and knows how to take the sting out of things,' she said. Teresa Giudice and husband Luis Ruelas were spotted enjoying a day at the beach in Ibiza, Spain on Sunday. The 52-year-old Real Housewives of New Jersey star's true looks were on display days after she was slammed online for posting heavily edited bikini snapshots. Giudice, who was formerly married to entrepreneur Joe Giudice, wore a skimpy navy blue two-piece swimsuit with a matching scarf tied around her long, dark tresses. The reality television star didn't let the heat keep her from hitting the shore in a full face of makeup. Ruelas joined her, going shirtless with a pair of peach-colored swim trunks. Teresa Giudice and husband Luis Ruelas were spotted enjoying a day at the beach in Ibiza, Spain on Sunday The 52-year-old Real Housewives of New Jersey star's true looks were on display Giudice recently posted a bikini photo from her trip to Mykonos in Greece and was slammed for heavily editing the snapshots Teresa looked tanned and toned as she splashed around with her spouse, who proposed in Greece in 2021. The beach day comes after last week she posted a hyper-smoothed image online from her trip to Mykonos, Greece. There was not a single blemish or flaw as she stared flirtily into the camera while playing with her hair. One follower made a one word statement: 'Photoshop.' Another follower compared her to a Real Housewives of Atlanta veteran, writing: 'Shes turning into Kim Zolciak.' Two days later, the bombshell was accused of more of the same as she shared another bikini-clad carousel post on Instagram. This time, she was called out for a suspicious-looking railing in the background of her photos. A follower named Shonta Haayes asked in the comments section, 'Why is the railing bent?' Teresa laughed with her husband of nearly two years, whom she began dating in 2020 The mother-of-four bared her flat tummy in the sexy beach look Ruelas went shirtless with a pair of peach-colored swim trunks Giudice put her pert derriere on display in the barely-there bottoms Despite the photo alterations, Teresa is in undisputedly great shape. The Italian-born media personality regularly hits the gym and has instilled a fit and healthy lifestyle into her four daughters. She's mom to Gia, 23, Gabriella, 19, Milania, 18, and Audriana, 14. Giudice split from her first husband Joe in 2020 after more than two decades together. Farmer Wants A Wife's Sara Carey and Joe Bobbin have announced their split. The couple, who met on the latest season of the Channel Seven show, revealed that they've called it quits on their relationship after months of dating. Sarah, 31, confirmed on her Instagram story on Monday, that she and Joe, 33, have been 'separated for weeks'. 'I was really hoping to not have to do this as I'm a very private person, but it's incredibly hard to heal whilst constantly receiving questions and comments about the status of my relationship,' Sarah wrote. 'Joe and I separated a few weeks ago.' 'This has been one of the hardest times of my life so I want to sincerely thank those who have sent kind messages, checking in on me & and for welcoming me into this community.' 'It's been difficult without my friends and family around me but the kindness I have been shown is something I'll never forget.' Sarah added that she wasn't prepared to go public with the reasons for the split as she was still 'processing' the information. Farmer Wants A Wife's Sara Carey and Joe Bobbin have called it quits on their relationship after months of dating 'I understand there may be a lot of questions regarding why, but at this time I'm not ready to talk about that as I'm still processing the information myself,' she said. 'I really appreciate you respecting my privacy.' When contacted by Daily Mail Australia, Joe confirmed the split, offering a cryptic: 'The only comment I'll make is you can't force love.' Sarah and Joe first sparked split rumours back in May after the final episode of Farmer Wants A Wife showed Joe attending his best friend's wedding without Sarah. Joe is close friends with 2021 FWAW star Andrew Guthrie and sweet scenes of his wedding to Jess Nathan aired after the 2024 grooms made their decisions. But livestock administrator Sarah was notably absent from the ceremony, with Joe instead video-calling her from the wedding, sparking rumours they had split. Sarah, 31, confirmed on her Instagram story on Monday, that she and Joe, 33, have been 'separated for weeks' Sarah responded to the rumours at the time, revealing that she and Joe were still together and said producers told her not to attend as not to reveal their fate to fans. 'Joe and I are trying to navigate our new relationship, it's all so new,' she confirmed to 7News in a new interview. '[The producers] didn't want to give away the ending which is totally understandable. 'It was always known that whoever ended up with Joe was not allowed to go because they didn't know timeframes [for the series to air] yet.' Sarah said she was told at the last minute that she could attend the wedding, but she had just started a new job near Joe's farm in Bombala, NSW, and couldn't take time off. 'This has been one of the hardest times of my life so I want to sincerely thank those who have sent kind messages, checking in on me & and for welcoming me into this community,' she said The news comes after FWAW host Samantha Armytage revealed that she was leaving the Seven Network on Sunday. Armytage, 47, declined a new deal with Seven after her current contract expires in October, The Daily Telegraph reported. Describing the departure as 'sad and bittersweet,' she told the publication that she felt her time had come and that she was excited about her future. 'I'm big on instinct. I listen to my instinct. I know when the time comes. I am proud of the fact that I back myself enough to say: "I've done what I can do here" and I move on,' she said. 'This is not the end. It's just the end of this chapter.' Armytage will still appear at the upcoming Logies, with her show Farmer Wants A Wife nominated for Best Structured Reality Program, but she will not return to host the show's next series, which is currently in pre-production. The reality show's original host Natalie Gruzlewski will return. Samantha Armytage has been spotted for the first time since announcing her shock departure from Network Seven. The Farmer Wants A Wife host, 47, revealed on Sunday that she's quitting Channel Seven after 21 years with the network. And just days after announcing the news, the television presenter stepped out on Tuesday to purchase groceries at her local supermarket in Double Bay, Sydney. Samantha dressed casually in an oversized black turtleneck jumper, cream pants, and white sneakers as she carried her purchases in a bag. She wore her blonde hair out, and completed her look with a brown leather cross-body bag. Samantha was seen pushing a shopping trolley before removing her shopping bag and walking to her car. The FWAW host surprised fans when she announced her departure from Network Seven on Sunday. She declined a new deal with Seven after her current contract expires in October, The Daily Telegraph reported. Samantha Armytage has been spotted for the first time since announcing her departure from Channel Seven The Farmer Wants A Wife host announced on Sunday she's quitting Channel Seven after 21 years with the network Describing the departure as 'sad and bittersweet,' she told the publication that she felt her time had come and that she was excited about her future. 'I'm big on instinct. I listen to my instinct. I know when the time comes. I am proud of the fact that I back myself enough to say: "I've done what I can do here" and I move on,' she said. 'This is not the end. It's just the end of this chapter.' Samantha will still appear at the upcoming Logies, with her show Farmer Wants A Wife nominated for Best Structured Reality Program, but she will not return to host the show's next series, which is currently in pre-production. The reality show's original host Natalie Gruzlewski will return. On Tuesday, the television presenter was seen picking up supplies at her local supermarket in Sydney's Double Bay Samantha wore an oversized black turtleneck jumper, cream pants, and white sneakers for the outing Group Managing Director of Seven Television Angus Ross said in a statement: 'After 21 years, Samantha Armytage has decided to leave the Seven Network in October this year. We fully understand and support her decision.' 'Sam has made a remarkable contribution to Seven over more than two decades, from 7NEWS and Sunrise to, more recently, Farmer Want's A Wife.' He continued: 'Her genuine affection for the country lifestyle she's grown up with and enjoys to this day has shone through her three seasons with the TV WEEK Logie Award-nominated series. 'It's been a pleasure watching Sam share her pride of these communities with Australia as our incredible farmer love stories have unfolded. We wish Sam and her farmer every happiness and success for the future.' Three days after announcing she was pregnant with baby No. 3, Cardi B is relieved to no longer have to hide her bougeoning baby bump behind baggy fashion and ineffective umbrella handlers. The expecting 31-year-old - who boasts 280M social media followers - tweeted on Sunday: 'I'm so happy y'all know I'm [pregnant] now [so] I can stop wearing those [damn] schoolgirl skirts lmaoooooo!' Indeed, Cardi (born Belcalis Almanzar) did use a tiny Birkin bag and a grey schoolgirl skirt to shield her bump in an Instagram slideshow from May 31. But in the past month, the Grammy winner - who relies on stylist Kollin Carter - has been spotted wearing more than one poofy, voluminous dress along with a well-placed massive silver purse. Cardi's rep first denied she was pregnant to TMZ last Wednesday, but she announced she actually was pregnant the very next day with a slick Instagram slideshow. Three days after announcing she was pregnant with baby No. 3, Cardi B is relieved to no longer have to hide her bougeoning baby bump behind baggy fashion and ineffective umbrella handlers The expecting 31-year-old - who boasts 280M social media followers - tweeted on Sunday: 'I'm so happy y'all know I'm [pregnant] now [so] I can stop wearing those [damn] schoolgirl skirts lmaoooooo!' It was bittersweet considering the half-Dominican, half-Trinidadian star filed for divorce (for the second time) from rapper Offset last Wednesday, her rep confirmed to Page Six. 'With every ending comes a new beginning! I am so grateful to have shared this season with you, you have brought me more love, more life, and most of all renewed my power!' Cardi wrote on Instagram. 'Reminded me that I can have it all! You've reminded me that I never have to choose between life, love, and my passion! I love you so much and can not wait for you to witness what you helped me accomplish, what you pushed me to do! It's so much easier taking life's twists, turns and test laying down, but you, your brother and your sister have shown me why it's worth it to push through!' The Bronx native wants primary physical custody of her two children - six-year-old daughter Kulture Kiari Cephus and two-year-old son Wave Set Cephus - with the 32-year-old Migos alum (born Kiari Kendrell Cephus). On Monday, Offset Instastoried a snap of little Wave holding four stacks of cash to his ear like a phone seemingly as a not-so-subtle way of showing he plans to continue to 'pay for the bills he already pays on the kids and the new one.' It came two days after Cardi blasted reports that she requested child support from the three-time Grammy nominee, who 'helps me a lot with my business and the kids.' The On Dat Money rapper and Offset previously separated from December 5, 2018 to January 31, 2019 amid cheating allegations, but that was evidently not the issue this time around. The on/off hip-hop power couple - whose first date was the 2017 Super Bowl - reportedly separated last November after six years of marriage. Cardi - who gets 30.8M monthly listeners on Spotify - has yet to release the sophomore follow-up to her 2018 debut studio album Invasion of Privacy. Indeed, Cardi (born Belcalis Almanzar) did use a tiny Birkin bag and a grey schoolgirl skirt to shield her bump in an Instagram slideshow from May 31 But in the past month, the Grammy winner - who relies on stylist Kollin Carter - has been spotted wearing more than one poofy, voluminous dress along with a well-placed massive silver purse Cardi's rep first denied she was pregnant to TMZ last Wednesday, but she announced she actually was pregnant the very next day with a slick Instagram slideshow It was bittersweet considering the half-Dominican, half-Trinidadian star filed for divorce (for the second time) from rapper Offset (R, pictured July 9) last Wednesday Cardi wants primary physical custody of her two children - six-year-old daughter Kulture Kiari Cephus and two-year-old son Wave Set Cephus (pictured May 12) - with the 32-year-old Migos alum On Monday, Offset Instastoried a snap of little Wave holding four stacks of cash to his ear like a phone seemingly as a not-so-subtle way of showing he plans to continue to 'pay for the bills he already pays on the kids and the new one' It came two days after the Bronx native blasted reports that she requested child support from the three-time Grammy nominee, who 'helps me a lot with my business and the kids.' The on/off hip-hop power couple - whose first date was the 2017 Super Bowl - reportedly separated last November after six years of marriage (pictured October 13) Gordon Ramsay put on a loved-up display with his wife Tana as they headed home after a romantic dinner date at Nobu on Sunday. The Kitchen Nightmares star, 57, jumped behind the wheel of his luxury Porsche 911 GT3 RS after he and his wife enjoyed a low-key date night together. Gordon headed out in his swanky 192,000 vehicle after heading back to his car hand-in-hand with Tana. Tana cut a stylish figure in blue flared Chloe jeans and a cropped white vest, teamed with chunky tan leather platforms and a nude handbag. It comes after Gordon recently returned from a trip to Iceland, where he showed off his impressive fishing skills on social media. Gordon Ramsay, 57, put on a loved-up display with his wife Tana, 49, as they headed home after a romantic dinner date at Nobu on Sunday The Kitchen Nightmares star, 57, jumped behind the wheel of his luxury 192,000 Porsche 911 GT3 RS after he and his wife enjoyed a low-key date night together The chef posted a series of photos to his social media showing him in full waterproof gear and holding a large salmon as he grinned at the camera. Gordon has been enjoying a week away in Iceland and taking advantage of the culinary scene in Reykjavik. While Gordan has been enjoying his getaway to Iceland, his daughter Holly has been pool-side supporting his boyfriend, Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty who won silver in the 100m Breaststroke final last week. The influencer gushed over the swimmer after he finished in second place. The daughter of the famous TV chef took to Instagram to tell fans just how much he means to her and their family. Holly shared a series of loved-up snaps with Adam following the race, and said she is 'in awe of him' and 'could not be prouder'. Holly wrote: 'These pictures say it all. You are our world and I could not have been prouder of you last night. What you have accomplished is truly incredible. I am totally in awe of you and your faith. 'Its impossible to describe the sacrifices that you have made to get here, and for it to be your third games, that takes so much. Tana cut a stylish figure in blue flared jeans and a cropped white vest, teamed with chunky tan leather platforms and a nude handbag It comes after Gordon recently returned from a trip to Iceland, where he showed off his impressive fishing skills on social media 'Getting here has been a journey and I am so thankful to be part of your team. @adam_peaty & @melmarshallmassive you are a force to be reckoned with Congratulations to you both. 'To think that when we first met 15 months ago, you werent in the pool. Watching you get back into the water and fall in love with your gift again has been the most inspiring journey.' While Gordon has been jet-setting, the rest of the Ramsay clan have been settling back into normal life after moving back in to the family home in Wandsworth. The 7million mansion had undergone two years of extensive renovations but at the end of May, the celebrity chef and his wife Tana, 49, were spotted returning to the south London pad. During renovations it was said that Gordan and his wife were staying at a luxury flat in the new Battersea Power Station development costing about 12,000 a month with their youngest children, Oscar, 5, and Jesse James, eight months. Kelly Brook looked more loved-up than ever as she cosied up for an Instagram snap with husband Jeremy Parisi during a romantic holiday in Greece on Monday. The couple, who tied the knot in Italy in July 2022, were all smiles as they soaked-up sun in their swimwear during a lavish boat day. Kelly looked incredible as she showed off her amazing curves in a pink patterned bikini as she wrapped her arm around her Italian hunk husband Jeremy. The former glamour model kept cool by tying her long brunette tresses in a bun and shielded from the sun behind a pair of stylish pink framed sunglasses. Meanwhile shirtless Jeremy displayed his muscular physique in a pair of grey swimming shorts and sunglasses. Kelly Brook looked more loved-up than ever as she cosied up for an Instagram snap with husband Jeremy Parisi during a romantic holiday in Greece on Monday Kelly looked incredible as she showed off her amazing curves in a black and white striped bikini as she relaxed at a beach In a second snap during the holiday, Kelly looked sensational in a white and black striped bikini as she relaxed on a beach. The actress flashed her gorgeous smile as she accessorised the daytime ensemble with a woven sun hat and a beaded necklace. Kelly revealed she had previously been to the Greek Island Paros with her 'mother and late father' and she is happy to return with husband Jeremy. She penned: '20 Years ago I came to Paros and it changed my life forever. That Summer changed what I wanted from life and slowed everything down and I reconnected with nature the sea and myself. 'I love this Island and it was so amazing to finally return with my now husband. Its still as beautiful as I remember and my life now is even more beautiful! 'I am grateful to have spent time here with my mother and late father. It holds so many precious memories and it was so nice to return with Jeremy and show him my favourite place in the world. 'Also nice that it finally has hotels as we always stayed in the homes of locals. 20 years has seen many changes and I think for the better. Paros is always a good idea'. Jeremey commented on the post with a number of red heart emojis. The couple, who tied the knot in Italy in July 2022, were all smiles as they posed for a selfie during the getaway Kelly revealed she had previously been to the Greek Island Paros with her 'mother and late father' and she is happy to return with husband Jeremy Jeremey commented on the post with a number of red heart emojis Kelly embarked on a relationship with the hunky Italian model in 2014 after sending him a message on Instagram, they married eight years later at his family owned villa Nota Pisani in July 2022. It comes after Kelly and Jeremy signed up to BBC One's Celebrity Race Across The World along with the likes of Kola Bokinni, Scott Mills and Jeff Brazier. Their journey begins in Belem, Northern Brazil - the gateway to the Amazon - and will pass through five checkpoints across the length of South America. They will do all they can to reach the finish line in the Andes, Frutillar in Southern Chile. The famous faces will say goodbye to lavish transport, smartphones and bank cards and instead must rely on their skills, cunning and ingenuity as well as the kindness of strangers. The BAFTA award-winning show, from producers Studio Lambert, will return at 9pm on Wednesday 14th August on BBC One and iPlayer. August 5, 2024: While Ukraine has major allies in the form of NATO assistance, Russia has no such support and must pay for its war in Ukraine with no outside support. This has crippled the Russian economy, which is already suffering from economic sanctions imposed by its major trading partners in Europe and some in Asia. This led Russia to depend more on trade with China. This the Chinese agreed to do, while assuring their Western trading partners that Chinese goods sold to Russia would not include weapons or munitions. Naturally the Chinese sent those anyway. In 2024 Ukraine reported that Russian troops were using Chinese munitions. The Ukrainians had proof and, when Chinese officials were shown these munitions, they responded that Russia must have obtained these munitions from third parties. China pointed out that it is a major exporter of munitions and those buyers could sell their Chinese munitions to Russia for a profit. China is one of the top five exporters of weapons and munitions in the world but because of Russian demands for more munitions to use in Ukraine, Russia has gone from a major exporter of weapons to a major importer. Before the war Russia was a major exporter of munitions to China but since the Ukraine War began those exports have stopped and China is now a major exporter of munitions to Russia. China tries to keep this quiet, but they are indeed the source of all those Chinese made bullets Russian troops have been using. Chinese efforts to blame third party sources for supplying Russia with Chinese munitions falls flat when anyone scrutinizes global munitions shipments before and after Russia invaded Ukraine. Chime considers these facts embarrassing, but business is business. Elizabeth Taylor revealed her father branded her a w***e when her affair with Richard Burton was exposed. Her shocking revelation was unveiled in an unearthed recording which featured in HBO documentary Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes, where she opens up about her life and loves. The Hollywood star, who passed away in 2011 aged 79, famously sent shockwaves through the showbiz world when she fell for Richard while still married to fourth husband Eddie Fisher - with the lovebirds marrying just 10 days after she divorced Eddie. And while Elizabeth and Richard's union made headlines around the world, drawing shock and anger from both Hollywood and the Vatican, Elizabeth found herself facing very harsh criticism closer to home when her father Francis Lenn Taylor told her what he thought of her. Speaking to US reporter Richard Meryman in an interview in the mid-60s, Elizabeth said: 'My father called me a w****'. Elizabeth Taylor has revealed that her own father called her a 'whore' after she left her husband Eddie Fisher for Richard Burton [pictured with Richard in 1970] The late movie icon says that Francis Taylor was furious after she divorced Fisher in 1964 and married Burton 10 days later, an act which scandalized Hollywood and drew the ire of the Vatican [pictured with her mother and father in 1959] Elizabeth met Richard while working on their 1963 film Cleopatra, with the actor having been married to his first wife Sybil Christopher at the time. And it wasn't just the her art dealer father who's ire she faced, but the Catholic church too, with Elizabeth adding: 'I met such opposition from everyone' Speaking on the tapes, she went on: 'The Vatican newspaper had come out with an item saying that I was so despicable. 'My own children should be taken away from me, an attack that really - well, it made me vomit.' She also added that she'd had a 'horrendous week' amid threats of violence. In a new documentary, Taylor speaks from beyond the grave to also say her marriage to Fisher was so unhappy she once tried to kill herself by overdosing on sleeping pills. In 'Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes', which had its North American premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival in June, she calls it 'selfish' because it would have been ruinous to her children. Taylor also deflects some of the blame for getting involved with Fisher in the first place and says his marriage to ex-wife Debbie Reynolds was not perfect. While Elizabeth and Richard's union made headlines around the world, Elizabeth found herself facing very harsh criticism closer to home when her father told her what he thought of her Taylor scandalously married Fisher just three hours after he divorced actress Debbie Reynolds In the most biting part of the film, Taylor says that Reynolds' shock at Fisher seeking a divorce was 'such an act' because she and Fisher were 'unhappy' despite their public image as sweethearts. The film is based on 40 hours of recently discovered tapes and recordings that Taylor made in the 1960s, when she was at the peak of her fame, with journalist Richard Meryman. There was also a 1985 interview with Dominick Dunne which is woven into the narrative. The documentary is directed by Nanette Burstein, who previously directed 'Hillary' about Hillary Clinton and 'The Kid Stays In The Picture,' about the late film producer Robert Evans, and is due to come out on HBO in August. Taylor was a celebrity from the age of 11 and became famous with her role in Lassie Come Home, which was released in 1943. She won two Academy Awards, was married eight times twice to Burton and died in 2011 having been one of Hollywood's most enduring stars. In 'The Lost Tapes,' Taylor describes how uncomfortable she was with becoming famous at such a young age. By the age of 16 she was playing 24-year-old women on screen even though inside she was just a 'terrified' young girl. At 18 she met Nicky Hilton, a socialite and heir to the Hilton Hotels fortune. He was 23 and they got married even though Taylor was 'a virgin, mentally and physically.I was not prepared to be an adult,' she says. 'I was in love with being in loveinfatuated with love,' Taylor says. As a result she made what she calls 'horrendous mistakes.' With Hilton they included 'his kicking me in the stomach and causing me to have a miscarriage,' an episode Taylor recounts with little emotion. Taylor (left) says that Reynolds' (right) shock at Fisher (center) seeking a divorce was 'such an act' because she and Fisher were 'unhappy' despite their public image as sweethearts However, Taylor said Fisher was controlling and called it 'one big, friggin' awful mistake' Taylor says: 'The wedding was lovely. Then came disillusionment. Also a few split lips.' 'Nick was always in a tantrum. I couldn't go back to that life of such mental and physical abuse and our marriage was over and done with.' As a 19-year-old divorcee, Taylor enjoyed the first independent time of her life and she had a ball while staying at the Plaza Hotel in New York with Roddy McDowall, her co-star on Lassie who became a lifelong friend. McDowall was gay and Taylor enjoyed his company and that of other gay men including later Rock Hudson because she knew they wouldn't try to come on to her. Husband no.2 was actor Michael Wilding who Taylor calls the 'great stabilizer' as he was 20 years older than her. Wilding represented 'tranquility, security and maturity,' which were all the things Taylor was looking for in her own life. Taylor was 'dying' to have children and wanted to be a 'good wife and a splendid mother,' so she had two children with Wilding, Michael Wilding Jr. and Christopher Wilding, the first of her four kids. In 'Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes,' the actress revealed she was so miserable in her marriage to Eddie Fisher that she attempted to overdose on sleeping pills The film is based on 40 hours of recently discovered tapes and recordings that Taylor made in the 1960s Taylor admits that three of the five years she was married to Wilding were not working because she 'sort of hen-pecked' and 'dominated him'. Taylor had hoped that Wilding would be the stronger of the pair but he wasn't. 'I need somebody to dominate me,' Taylor candidly admits. Taylor's third marriage was to a man who her friends called the 'love of her life.' She met Mike Todd while he was producing his first film, Around the World in 80 Days, which became a smash hit and won him an Oscar. Taylor wasn't overly attracted to the flamboyant Todd, but admired how he was a 'real con artist who could con the gold out of your teeth,' as she puts it. The day after Taylor broke up with Wilding, Todd demanded to see her in an office at MGM and gave her a speech saying he loved her and there was 'no question' they should be together. Remarkably Taylor went along with it and they wed, touring the world to promote his movie. Taylor married her first husband, Conrad Nicholas Hilton Jr, at 18 years old and said he once kicked her in the stomach to cause a miscarriage Husband number two was actor Michael Wilding, who was 20 years her senior and the father of her first two children Taylor's third marriage was to Mike Todd who her friends called the 'love of her life' but who tragically died in a plane crash in 1958 Their connection came through their mutual curiosity and because Todd, a self educated man, didn't make Taylor feel inadequate as she did in Hollywood due to her lack of formal training as an actress. In the film Taylor says that she would deliberately make Todd mad by doing things like turning up late. When he lost his temper and 'dominated' her, she would 'purr inside because he had won,' she says in the film, adding that she needs strength in a man. 'I need that quality in a man more than any other quality because I know myself and I know I will try and get away with murder.' But happiness would last little more than a year and Todd died in a plane crash in 1958 while traveling from New Mexico to New York. Taylor could have been on the plane were it not for her having a cold. While in mourning, Taylor grew close to Eddie Fisher, an actor who was best friends with Todd and was married to Debbie Reynolds, herself an actress. In the film Reynolds says that she and Fisher went to Taylor's house soon after Todd's death and found her so distraught she was 'screaming.' Reynolds took her children home and told Fisher to stay. According to Reynolds, Fisher was a 'great comfort' to Taylor and accompanied her on a trip to New York, claiming he had to be there for work. While in mourning, Taylor grew close to Eddie Fisher, an actor who was best friends with Todd, but said she 'never loved him' became depressed due to his controlling ways Taylor met Richard Burton on the set of the epic film Cleopatra [pictured] where he played Mark Anthony to her Cleopatra and their affair led to a condemnation from the Vatican 'He really went to be with Elizabeth which I found out and realized there was something serious going on there,' Reynolds says. After Taylor was seen out with Fisher, the 's*** hit the fan,' Taylor admits. She says: 'I was keeping Mike alive by talking about him because Eddie was a great friend of Mike's. The only thing we had in common was Mike. 'I never loved Eddie. I liked him. I felt sorry for him. And I liked talking (to him). But he was not Mike.' They married in 1959, scandalously just three hours after Fisher divorced Reynolds. In a brutal put-down, Taylor says: 'I don't remember too much about my marriage to him (Fisher), except it was one big, friggin' awful mistake. I knew it before we were married and didn't know how to get out of it.' She also takes aim at Reynolds and says: 'I can't say anything against Debbie, but she put on such an act, with the pigtails and the diaper pins with the whole thing coming as a big shock. 'The public didn't know any of the personal unhappiness between Debbie and Eddie that I knew about. As far as they were concerned I had broken up a perfectly happy marriage.' Taylor soon became depressed due to Fisher's controlling ways. She claims in the film that he 'made sure I felt lonely' and they never went out as he didn't like her to be with other people. 'I was so desperate at one time I did take some sleeping pills,' Taylor says. 'I did it deliberately, calmly. I was fed up with living. I couldn't face the thought of divorce. I'd rather have been dead.' A doctor came to see Taylor and she recovered, leaving her 'deeply ashamed' because she was being so selfish and not thinking of her children. The first time she met Richard Burton was on the set of the epic film Cleopatra where he played Mark Anthony to her Cleopatra. Burton having the worst hangover Taylor had ever seen in a man did not put her off. For his part, Burton wasn't deterred by Taylor burping during their first encounter. In the film Burton says he was enthralled by Taylor and says she is 'queen-like, distantit's the inaccessibility of Elizabeth that makes her so exciting.' Taylor admits that she and Burton tried to keep themselves apart but they couldn't stop falling in love with each other. At the time Burton was married to actress Sybil Williams, with whom he had two children, and the ensuing scandal coincided with the release of Cleopatra in 1963 and was unlike anything the world had seen. The Vatican issued a statement condemning Taylor and saying that her children should be taken away. 'It made me want to vomit,' Taylor says, adding that the Italian FBI had to investigate after she got threats to blow her up with a bomb. Taylor began to leave Fisher but then got back together with him, only for Fisher to become even more abusive. In the film, Taylor says: 'Eddie at night time would sit up and he had a gun. 'Every time I nearly nodded off he would stroke my arm and say: "I'm not going to kill you, I wouldn't shoot you. You are much too pretty." All night long. Eventually, I ran from the house, I was so scared.' Taylor calls the situation 'desperate' for everyone involved. After revealing the insult from her father, she added that she felt guilty about Burton's children for 'having inflicted such awful pain' on them. Taylor said she tried to use her fame for good and started amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, raising awareness of HIV and AIDS In her life, Taylor won two Academy Awards, was married eight times - twice to Burton - and died in 2011 having been one of Hollywood's most enduring stars She says: 'Do I think I'm going to be punished in hell? I don't think we can plan for being rewarded afterwards. We must pay on this earth, we must do our penance now.' For Taylor, that meant using her fame to start amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, and raising awareness of HIV and AIDS. She says in the film that this was a way of using her fame for good, even though she was never comfortable with being a celebrity herself. Reflecting on her public image, Taylor says that she was considered to be an 'untrustworthy lady, completely superficial and too pretty.' She says: 'Maybe because of my personal life I suggest something illicit, but I am not illicit, and I am not immoral. I make mistakes, and I have paid for them. 'I know that I will never be able to pay the bill, but that is not something you can put in the story.' Blake Lively was faced with an impossible choice on Tuesday. The American actress appeared on Australian television show The Project, and was asked to pick her favourite Taylor Swift song. The massive Swiftie was aghast at being forced to make a decision between the pop anthems, and responded with laughter. 'You're gonna ask me to pick one song?! That's a wild question,' the former Gossip Girl star said. 'Honestly, I love her music too much to pick one song. That's just, like, insane... I can tell you my favourite child, if you would like to know that!' she joked. She added: 'I'm joking. I genuinely don't have a favourite child or song.' Blake and Taylor are known to be good friends, and last month Taylor assured Blake that her and Ryan Reynolds' kids will always be in good hands. The Gossip Girl alum, 36, thanked pal Swift after she penned a sweet tribute to her 'godkids' sperm donor' Reynolds, 47, and his Deadpool & Wolverine co-star Hugh Jackman. Blake Lively was faced with an impossible choice on Tuesday. The American actress appeared on Australian television show The Project, and was asked to pick her favourite Taylor Swift song. Pictured with It Ends With Us co-star Jenny Slate 'You're gonna ask me to pick one song?! That's a wild question,' the former Gossip Girl star said. 'Honestly, love her music too much to pick one song. That's just, like, insane... I can tell you my favourite child, if you would like to know that!' she joked. Taylor is pictured 'Thank you @taylorswift for honoring my guy(s),' wrote Lively, sharing the Instagram Story. 'I couldn't have said it better myself. 'Which is unsurprising given that I have 14 less Grammys and not a single sold out stadium world tour,' she added. Swift, 34, who has been best friends with Lively and Reynolds for years, previously took to Instagram to give the MCU movie a rave review. 'Over the past few years I have watched one of my best friends on this planet pour every bit of his heart, soul, sweat, time, energy, jokes, pain, joy, rebellion, darkness, and magic into this film,' she wrote. Blake and Taylor are known to be good friends, and last month Taylor assured Blake that her and Ryan Reynolds ' kids will always be in good hands with a funny Instagram Stories post 'He's created the best work of his life, and this film feels like an actual joy portal, a wild escape from reality, and an abs sandwich. I don't know how he did it. 'But that's just Hugh for you!' added Swift with a photo of herself, Lively and Reynolds with Jackman, 55, and director Shawn Levy. 'These other randoms crashed the photo and we were too polite to ask them to leave,' she continued. 'Deadpool and Wolverine is out TOMORROW! Here's where to buy tickets if you like things that are unspeakably awesome,' added Swift with a link. 'Shout out to Wade Wilson, aka my godkids' sperm donor!' Reynolds shared the post as well. 'Omg, this may have just killed @thehughjackman.' Jackman confirmed his metaphorical death by Swiftie-dom with a '100' emoji, adding: ' 'I'm also [skull emoji],' added Reynolds. The Golden Globe nominee tied the knot with Lively in 2012 after starring together in Green Lantern (2011), and they share James, 9, Inez, 7, Betty, 4, and 17-month-old Olin. Mia McKenna-Bruce tied the knot with her actor boyfriend Tom Leach over the weekend at a country house in Somerset a year after they welcomed their son Leo. The How to Have Sex star hired out the entirity of the 31 bedroom estate, Brympton House, in Yeovil for her family and many actor friends to stay in and celebrate her big day. The 27-year-old wore a veil and tiara with her floor-length ivory gown which hit a large black medical boot that is currently protecting a broken foot. She danced to Sweet Caroline on the gravel front of the Grade I listed manor with her friends and new husband who she met in 2019 on the set of the Rebels. The house was featured in Netflix's adaptation of Jane Austen's Persuasion in 2022 where Mia starred opposite Dakota Johnson's Anne Elliot as her younger sister, Mary Elliot. Mia McKenna-Bruce tied the knot with her actor boyfriend Tom Leach over the weekend at a country house in Somerset, a year after they welcomed their son Leo The How to Have Sex star hired out the entirity of the 31 bedroom estate, Brympton House, in Yeovil for her family and many actor friends to stay in and celebrate her big day Guests arrived on the Saturday ahead of the Sunday afternoon wedding ceremony, staying overnight at the exclusive venue where wedding packages can cost up to 37,500. The Witcher star was snapped sipping a mimosa in a pair of white pyjamas while wearing under eye masks as she got ready with her sister, Anya. And bridesmaids on the morning of the wedding. A pamper suite was on offer in the morning for the wedding party to prepare for the big day with a Bucks Fizz breakfast including a four-course meal with 'midnight munchies' provided after the dinner. The venue offered a spend of 3,000 on the flowers, a sparkler arch and the choice between a photo booth or a Nightcap package. The next day Mia was seen in a green silk dress and sunglasses lying on a grand four poster bed with her best friends and captioned the picture: 'We're hitting the post wedding come down.' It's been a whirlwind year for the child star after she gave birth to her son Leo in August last year and unexpectedly won BAFTA's Rising Star award in February. In attendance was the Hollyoaks star and fellow BAFTA winner, Emily Burnett, who Mia met on the set of the CBBC Tracey Beaker spin-off, the Dumping Ground, in 2013. Her How To Have Sex co-star Lara Peake was among the wedding guests and the show's director Molly Manning Walker, make-up artist Dominique Desveaux and costume designers Nancy Kane and George Buxton were also in attendance. Mia wore a veil and tiara with her floor-length ivory gown which hit a large black medical boot that is currently protecting a broken foot In attendance was the Hollyoaks star and fellow BAFTA winner, Emily Burnett, who Mia met on the set of the CBBC Tracey Beaker spin-off, the Dumping Ground, in 2013 The mother-of-one celebrated her hen-do two weeks before her wedding at an Italian-themed event in Kent The actress and producer, Augusta Woods, who starred opposite Mia in the 2024 short film Sister Wives was also in attendance and shared various snaps of her close friend on her big day to her Instagram. The mother-of-one celebrated her hen-do two weeks before her wedding at an Italian-themed event in Kent. She shared a series of pictures from the weekend which saw her posing in a short white dress revealing her crutches and medical boot with a Bride tiara on. The TV star joked that her pals 'tried to murder' her by going on a six-mile hike Ana, 52, is currently on vacation in Santorini with some of her girlfriends Ana Navarro has joked that her friends are 'trying to murder' her and claimed she 'almost had a heart attack' as she enjoys a lavish vacation in Greece with her pals during The View's summer hiatus. Taking to Instagram over the weekend, Ana, 52, wasted no time in sharing photos from her getaway and even flaunted her continued weight loss in a low-cut swimsuit as she and her pals hung out on a boat. The TV host - who has been accused of using Ozempic - looked sensational in a bright blue strapless tankini which she teamed with a matching skirt as she posed in front of the ocean with one hand on her hip and captioned the Instagram post: 'Oh Greece. How I [love] your waters. Let me count the ways.' Ana's 775,000 followers were quick to comment on the post as one person said: 'Looking fabulous, have a wonderful time,' and another wrote: 'Ana you look amazing,' perhaps referring to the make-up free selfie she shared too. A third person commented: 'Greece looks great on you queen!' and a fourth added: 'You look amazing! You've lost a lot of weight!' while Ana's good friend Gloria Estefan wrote: 'Greece looks good on you, woman! Enjoy!!!' Ana Navarro is currently enjoying a vacation in Greece and shared this snap of herself on a boat The TV host wore a low-cut blue tankini and a sun hat to pose for a photo with two of her female friends In a different post, Ana flaunted her figure in a bright green summer dress which featured short puffball sleeves and complimented her tan perfectly. She teamed the floaty garment with a pair of strappy wedges and a tan-colored bag as she posed in front of the Temple of Poseidon with two of her female friends. Ana captioned the post: 'I've seen some beautiful sunsets in my life. By far the most memorable have been in Africa and in Greece. Very lucky to be seeing it again at The Temple of Poseidon in Sounion, Greece. '@anamariag.u, @treehouseacupuncturemiami and I met in third grade at the Sacred Heart and have been friends-like-family since, through ups and downs, joys and sadness. 'We first took a girls trip when we all turned 50, and committed to making time to do it again. So here we are, embarking on another adventure, and promising to make new memories and celebrate 45 years of sisterhood. Take a little time to be with your friends and enjoy the view.' She then revealed: 'PS - @americanair lost some of our bags. So you might be seeing the same clothes over & over.' In her latest vacation post, shared on Monday, Ana joked that she 'almost had a heart attack' because her friends took her on a six-mile hike. Sharing a few hilarious photos of herself climbing on top of a mule, she informed her fans in the caption: 'Y'all, today I felt like Jennifer Coolidge in White Lotus. I am on a girl's trip with lifelong friends. But these gals. These gals are trying to murder me. Ana continued to show off her weight loss in a beautiful green dress which she teamed with a pair of wedges The 52-year-old looked sensational as she posed in front of the Temple of Poseidon with two of her pals Ana shared a natural makeup free selfie as she soaked up the sun during a boat ride in Greece 'We went on a six-mile, steep uphill, uneven, rocky trail hike to Oia in Santorini. And it was hotter than Hades. The description said "strenuous". But we thought that was a warning to old out-of-shape people. I forgot I AM an old, out-of-shape person.' Ana continued: 'I almost had a heart attack. Then, right when I thought I was gonna cry, a shack where they rented mules, suddenly appeared. Like a mirage. PETA better not give me any s***. It was a choice between death or donkey.' 'The only silver-lining was that I met @andrewtilig, a golden-haired, Greek god who has a side-hustle as a tour guide. I promised him if he helped me survive this Herculean task (see what I did there?), I would help him find a rich wife,' she added. Ana was dressed in a white short-sleeved T-shirt and dark blue denim jeans for the hike, and in one picture, the tour guide can be seen holding her hand as she made her way downhill. Ana also posted a video of herself cuddling up to her male tour guide and introduced him to her followers as Apollo. 'I'm telling him he should sell his sperm,' Ana announced, as the man burst out laughing and replied: 'Totally! I'm gonna make plenty of money, I'm gonna be rich, I'm gonna be a millionaire!' Referring to a man named Jonathan Meijer, Ana replied: 'Listen, if that hideous Danish guy could get 500 kids, you could get 5,000!' as her tour guide responded: 'I totally agree!' Her followers found it hilarious as one person posted: 'Ana you got lots of jokes! Love everything about you lady,' while another wrote: 'Leave it to you to find a super cute tour guide.' The View panelist couldn't resist showing off her male tour guide in Santorini and joked that he should 'sell his sperm' Ana joked that she 'almost had a heart attack' during the hike until she was able to get on a mule A third fan said: 'Ana you crack me up all the time one of the things I love about you you are just so funny!' and a fourth commented: 'Love this post!!! Good luck to the young guy!!!' Ana's best friend Lee Schrager shared his thoughts to and commented: 'BFF, are you the rich wife you're referring to,' while someone else joked that she could set the tour guide up with her cohost on The View, Whoopi Goldberg, because she is 'single and rich.' Whoopi, 68, is currently enjoying her time off from the ABC daytime show with a holiday in Italy, while Sunny Hostin spent last weekend in the Hamptons, specifically the village of Sag Harbor. The View will return to TV screens for its 28th season in the first week of September. Ana has been accused by fans of using Ozempic a number of times. In June 2023, she responded to one Instagram user who had asked her when she was 'coming clean' about using Ozempic. The Chinandega, Nicaragua-born TV personality replied that she's 'posted about [her] weight-loss journey many times,' going into detail about the latest measures she's taken in recent years. Ana, who was involved with 2008 presidential campaign of late Sen. John McCain, said, 'I've struggled with my weight my entire life,' adding that 'the pandemic and menopause made it worse.' She said that her mother's 2021 death as result of kidney disease brought on by diabetes spurred her to get proactive in her quest for better health. 'She suffered terribly the last years of her life,' Ana said. She continued: 'Last August, I went to a wellness spa in Mexico called @rancholapuerta with two of my friends since grade school. 'We had all turned 50 and wanted to be healthier. I spent time there learning to cook and eat healthier, reprogramming the way I think of my lifestyle, and being more active. 'We did all sorts of exercise classes for hours a day.' Kerry Katona has revealed she broke down in tears recently after she was wracked with mum guilt when she was unable to visit her daughter Molly due to her own holiday commitments. The TV personality's eldest daughter Molly, 22, currently lives in Ireland and Kerry recently admitted that she hasn't seen her almost a year. And speaking candidly in her column in New Magazine this week, Kerry, 43, admitted she was suffering badly from mum guilt after she had to cancel her recent trip to Ireland. The trip ended up clashing with a court case Kerry was involved in and then she was heading away on holiday so she was forced to cancel the trip. She wrote: 'I was feeling really guilty last week because I was meant to visit Molly in Ireland for a few days, but I had a court case and then was heading away on holiday so I couldn't make the trip. Kerry Katona has revealed she broke down in tears due to her mum guilt after she was forced to reschedule her visit to see her daughter Molly for the first time in a year (pictured last month on Abbey Clancy's podcast) The TV personality's eldest daughter Molly, 22, currently lives in Ireland and Kerry recently admitted that she hasn't seen her almost a year but was forced to cancel her recent trip due to a court case and her holiday plans 'I am really missing her and it makes me feel like a bad mum when I have to reschedule, I was in tears over it and felt heartbroken. I felt like I'd let my baby girl down.' Kerry added: 'It's hard because Molly and Lilly are grown women now and living away from home, so I'm trying to balance seeing them with work and the other three kids.' She also said she will be heading to Ireland as soon as she is back from her holiday to spend some quality time with her eldest. Her confession over her recent mum guilt comes after the star admitted she has had a change of heart and would like a sixth child. As well as Molly and Lilly, 20, who Kerry shares with her ex husband Brian McFadden, she is also mum to Heidi, 17, and Max, 15, with ex husband Mark Croft and eight-year-old DJ from her relationship with the late George Kay. Following a recent hospital scan, Kerry has explained how she was told by doctors that she can still carry a child which has prompted some conversations with Ryan about trying for a baby. The Atomic Kitten star had been in hospital following a cancer scare and explained in her OK! Magazine column: 'When I went for my scan last week and got the all-clear, I was told that I've still got follicles meaning I could have another baby.' 'I don't think I would have another one, but Ryan keeps changing his mind! If he wants another one then that's fine, but we need to get a move on.' She wrote in her New Magazine column: 'I am really missing her and it makes me feel like a bad mum when I have to reschedule, I was in tears over it and felt heartbroken. I felt like I'd let my baby girl down' As well as Molly and Lilly, 20, who Kerry shares with her ex husband Brian McFadden, s he is also mum to Heidi, 17, and Max, 15, with ex husband Mark Croft and eight-year-old DJ from her relationship with the late George Kay Her confession over her recent mum guilt comes after the star admitted she has had a change of heart and would like a sixth child with her fiance Ryan Mahoney, 35 Kerry shares Molly and Lilly, 20, with her ex husband Brian McFadden (Kerry, Brian, Lilly and Molly seen in 2004 She added thought that she wouldn't want to carry another child herself and would explore surrogacy after her difficult birth with youngest daughter DJ 'traumatised' her eldest children. In February Kerry revealed her baby dream was over and admitted she had given Ryan 'a free pass' to have a baby with another woman. Kerry explained: 'I don't want to deprive him in fact, I've given him a pass and said, 'If this is something you want to pursue, leave me now!' 'I never want someone to not have that feeling of having their own child. But I feel like I should be enough for a man.' The Sopranos' Jamie-Lynn Sigler revealed her son, Beau, has spent the past four weeks in the hospital. During Tuesday's episode of her MeSsy podcast, which she hosts alongside Christina Applegate, the actress, 43, revealed 'nobody could understand why' her 10-year-old 'was getting worse and not getting better.' 'It was and has been like the darkest hardest, most f**ked up thing I've ever been through,' the New York native said. 'Every time you would get, like, a little bit of good news, you would get slapped in the face with something else.' Sigler, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis diagnosis at 20, revealed that Beau's pediatrician initially told her husband, Cutter Dykstra, that their child was suffering from a virus. After Beau spiked a 105-degree fever, the couple rushed him to the hospital. The Sopranos' Jamie-Lynn Sigler revealed her son, Beau, has spent the past four weeks in the hospital Sigler explained that she 'didn't wanna f**king leave the hospital' because she 'something inside' her 'f**king knew' there was a problem. This led to her making an appointment with an infectious disease doctor. As they made their way to see the specialist, Sigler said Beau started 'screaming in pain' during their drive 'in a way that no mother should ever see her kid scream.' After going to the hospital, again, she said he was still 'screaming through morphine.' Beau proceeded to undergo an MRI, brain scan and had a a catheter put in. Ultimately, he was diagnosed with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM). 'It's a very rare neurological autoimmune response that kids can get to a simple virus like a cold or strep,' she explained to listeners. '[The doctors] said it's compared to getting struck by lightning. That it's the most rare thing.' Accordign to Boston Children's Hospital, ADEM 'involves a brief but intense attack of inflammation (swelling) in the brain and spinal cord that damages the brain's myelin.' During Tuesday's episode of her MeSsy podcast, which she hosts alongside Christina Applegate , the actress, 43, revealed 'nobody could understand why' her little boy 'was getting worse and not getting better' Myelin, also called white matter, is 'the protective covering of nerve fibers.' Still, medical professionals continued to 'rule out all these other things.' During the ordeal, Sigler recalled waiting for a nurse to 'walk out to tell' her if her son was f**king dead or not.' The actress said the hospital trips and past month feel 'like a blur' and were particularly difficult as she watched her son make progress, then regress. At one point, she said Beau lost the use of his legs and mouth. 'We got transferred out of the ICU because his vitals were stable, which is a win. Were in a rehab floor now, where he will be for at least another month as we try to see what the trajectory of his recovery will be,' she said. 'My win yesterday and today is [that] hes regained his ability to walk. Its a miracle. Its amazing. His body is strong. Its an example of healing.' Although Sigler said her son has made physical improvements, she stated that he has 'developed severe psychosis.' In addition to Beau, Sigler and her husband, Cutter Dykstra, share a six-year-old son named Jack She explained that this has resulted in him repeatedly discussing 'different obsessions' and say things he wouldn't normally. 'During one of his rants, he called me a motherf**king slow walking bitch, which I think will now be the title of my book,' she mused. 'Thats not my son, though. Its not him.' Sigler noted that Beau has always been very compassionate toward her and said he 'always used to write me little texts from his little Apple Watch.' She revealed these messages would say things like: 'I wish I could take your pain away from you mom. I wish I could take this away from you. I would die for you. I love you.' 'The three things he has wrong are issues with his bladder and his hip flexors and his feet and thats me. Im thinking, "My sons taking away my pain."' she continued. As she spoke about the 'nightmare' her family has endured with Beau's health battle, Sigler noted that she's 'never felt more broken' or loved (seen in 2020) On Tuesday, Sigler also shared a photo of herself and Beau smiling with their arms wrapped around each other on Instagram. As she spoke about the 'nightmare' her family has endured with Beau's health battle, Sigler noted that she's 'never felt more broken' or loved. 'The way our friends and family have come to our rescue during this terrible time has been one of the most incredible things to experience,' she captioned the image. 'Maybe I could receive it because it wasnt for me, it was and always will be about Beau. The power of love, community and prayer is so real.' As for why she spoke publicly about the situation on her podcast, the star explained she 'needed an outlet' and because she is 'desperate for advice and information.' 'If anyone has had experience with ADEM, I would love to hear from you. The doctors nurses, and therapists have been INCREDIBLE here, and we have the highest of hopes for our son that he makes a full recovery, but we also know that whatever life turns into, we have a f**king army around us, and we will be ok,' she added. 'Thank you to everyone , you know who you are. I will never be able to repay you for the way you have held us and supported us. And to my husband Cutter, your patience and strength during this has been unparalleled.' She also credited her and Dykstra's younger son, Jack, six, for turning 'into a care taker' for his older sibling. Imogen Thomas has shared an insight into her Cannes getaway as she jetted off to the French Riviera for her summer holiday this week. The former Big Brother star, 41, posted a series of photos to her Instagram page on Tuesday, after opening up about her mum Janet's health condition. In one snap, Imogen slipped into a string bikini as she showed off her figure in a mirror selfie, while wearing a pair of circular shades. The social media personality also shared one of her evening looks, which was a cut-out black dress accessorised with a belly chain. She wore her brunette locks in soft waves and opted for a glamorous coat of make-up, while boosting her petite frame with stilettos. Imogen Thomas has shared an insight into her Cannes getaway as she jetted off to the French Riviera for her summer holiday this week The social media personality also shared one of her evening looks, which was a cut-out black dress accessorised with a belly chain The trip comes weeks after Imogen confessed she cries herself to sleep worrying about Janet, 64, more than a year after her motor neurone disease diagnosis. She said that the diagnosis had been a 'huge gamechanger' and explained she is now focusing on caring for her. The model revealed the diagnosis six months ago via a heartbreaking Instagram post and has been updating her followers on the reality of caring for someone with MND ever since. But, while she's tried to remain positive, the Welsh beauty admitted that it has taken a toll on her and her family eight years after the death of her father. But she added that her focus right now is on 'making memories' as a family. Imogen and her sister have been caring for her mother for more than a year following her MND diagnosis but revealed that it has been difficult for her. She said: 'When you have someone so close to you diagnosed with MND it's a massive game-changer. 'It's a really awful inhumane disease and we know what's to come which is painful every day. The former Big Brother star, 41, posted a series of photos to her Instagram page on Tuesday, after opening up about her mum Janet's health condition While she's tried to remain positive, the Welsh beauty admitted that it has taken a toll on her and her family but they are focusing on making Janet comfortable (pictured October 26, 2023) The model has admitted that she feels jealous sometimes watching able bodied families but immediately feels guilty and says her mum can still do most things thanks to her wheelchair 'It's heartbreaking and I feel robbed. I've already lost my Dad but then for her to be diagnosed with a terminal illness, that's just it. 'It's a big life change. I don't want to sit here and moan about it. They're your parents and you love them so you just get on with it but it has been a challenge.' she said. The model also admitted that she feels jealous sometimes watching able bodied families but then immediately feels guilty. She said: 'There are days where I cry myself to sleep because I fell robbed. I see mothers and daughters going shopping and feel jealous but should I? 'I always feel so guilty for saying that. Imogen has said she's focusing on making memories with her mother and travelling as much as possible while they still can, the pair recently returned from a trip to Spain In a heart-wrenching Instagram post, the Big Brother star shared that the diagnosis had left her 'heartbroken and in disbelief' 'We do still go shopping, my mum comes in her chair but it's not quite the same' The brunette beauty is now focusing on making her mother comfortable and is trying to travel as much as possible. Imogen said: 'We don't want to stop making memories and as time goes on you don't know when it'll stop and you won't be able to make any more ' But the mother-of-two explained that travelling with a disability is extremely difficult. She said that the family 'always dread the plane' and described one instance where staff left her and her mother Janet sat in the cabin for 45 minutes after all the other passengers had disembarked. She said: 'They just forgot about us. And it was difficult keeping her spirits high. 'Getting onto the plane is hard as well. Because my mum has lost feeling and control in her left side she needs a lot of help and if we're last on then people are just staring, watching us sit down and my mum hates it - she's in tears. 'And it doesn't matter how hard I try and I call the airlines, it doesn't make a difference. In a post on Instagram announcing Janet's diagnosis, she included a collection of videos and snaps showing herself and her daughters helping Janet manage her worsening symptoms Imogen has said she hopes that by sharing Janet's diagnosis she can raise awareness of MND, and help her mother to connect with others 'You don't get treated like a person, you're treated like a piece of cargo.' The model also described hotels that advertised themselves as disabled friendly but when she arrived, she found the specialist equipment damaged or not even there. The reality star said this added anxiety and worry to what was supposed to be a relaxing experience. She described how on a recent holiday to Spain, her mother was unable to get into the pool because of a rusty seat and the pair weren't given disabled-friendly sun loungers and the star was forced to pay extra so her mum could enjoy herself. 'It's just awful. My mother burst into tears and was having panic attacks.' She added: 'Don't advertise yourself as disabled-friendly if you're not. It kept me up at night worrying about her.' Imogen also admitted that another worry is the cost of caring for his disabled mother. The star revealed that she has already had to use her savings and raise funds through GoFundMe to pay for specialist equipment and treatment but conceded that she was lucky to have been able to access private healthcare. In a post on Instagram Imogen said she had decided to share Janet's diagnosis publicly after watching Coronation Street's emotional new storyline The mother-of-two explained that travelling with a disability is extremely difficult and says she and her mother often dread the plane but still travel as much as possible (pictured May 30) 'The thing is, it costs thousands. It's not a little thing. 'I never thought I'd be in a position where I'd have to think about these things. 'I'm very lucky but I partnered with Challenging MND so I did find out about these grants which have been so helpful because the equipment costs a fortune. My mother's chair alone cost 2,500. 'But we're giving her the best we can give for her now. We're making sure she's comfortable and we're there for her. 'If she wants to go out for a meal then we do because it brings her happiness.' But she explained that peoples' treatment of her mother has knocked her confidence. 'No one is outright rude but they stare and that's almost worse. 'My mum gets really embarrassed and people's treatment, it can be so undignified.' She revealed it upsets both of them and described it as an 'emotional rollercoaster'. 'Mum's mental health is very low because she's gone from an able bodied person to using a wheelchair.' she said. Imogen also revealed that her mother Janet will try and play it off but will often burst into tears into public. The model has partnered with Challenging MND which hopes to empower people living with MND by providing grants for specialist equipment or experiences. The charity has helped her finance specialist wheelchairs, a special toilet and equipment but said that she's hoping to fund the rest of her mother's care herself. She also believes that slowly people will learn to be more accepting and airlines will change their rules to better accommodate people with disabilities and explains that's why she posts about it on social media. WHAT IS MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE? Motor neurone disease is a rare condition that mainly affects people in their 60s and 70s, but it can affect adults of all ages. It's caused by a problem with cells in the brain and nerves called motor neurones. These cells gradually stop working over time. It's not known why this happens. Having a close relative with motor neurone disease, or a related condition called frontotemporal dementia, can sometimes mean you're more likely to get it. But it doesn't run in families in most cases. Early symptoms can include weakness in your ankle or leg, like finding it hard to walk upstairs; slurred speech, finding it hard to swallow, a weak grip, and gradual weight loss. If you have these symptoms, you should see a GP. They will consider other possible conditions and can refer you to a specialist called a neurologist if necessary. If a close relative has motor neurone disease or frontotemporal dementia and you're worried you may be at risk of it, they may refer you to a genetic counsellor to talk about your risk and any tests you can have. Source: NHS UK Advertisement The reality television star said: 'I show some of it on Instagram but there's a lot I don't to keep private. 'People seemed to be helped by it and I've been helped by other people - I've even made friends on Whatsapp and we just talk about tips and how we're feeling which really helps and afterwards I think "oh right well now I know this or that or not to give my mum this food or whatever"'. Imogen revealed her mother's diagnosis on Instagram six months ago in a heartbreaking post. Sharing a montage of clips and snaps documenting Janet's battle with MND, Imogen said she decided to share it publicly after watching Coronation Street's emotional new storyline, which has seen Paul Foreman diagnosed himself. In the post from January 4, Imogen wrote: 'There is no easy way to say this. Six months ago- Our mum was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND). 'For those who are not aware of MND it's an uncommon condition that affects the brain and nerves. 'It causes weakness that gets worse over time. It's rapidly progressing, life-threatening condition that affects six people in the UK every single day. The worst part is there's no cure. 'It's been a journey we never expected and hoped it would never be.' Imogen added that by sharing Janet's diagnosis she is hoping she can raise awareness of MND, and help her mother to connect with others 'who understand what she is going through'. 'The Wednesday's Coronation Street storyline featuring Paul and Billy struck a chord we never expected,' she wrote. 'It felt like watching our own emotional rollercoaster, the ups and downs of trying to pin down what's going on. 'Can you believe we went through three misdiagnoses? Spent a fortune in Harley Street to be told anything but MND. 'We even sent my mum to rehab in Leeds for a month believing she would make a miraculous recovery as she was told she had FND [Functional Neurologic Disorders] which is a neurological disorder. Looking back now her determination during rehab was incredible.' 'My sister and I are heartbroken and still in disbelief. It's hard to wrap our heads around. We just don't want to believe it. 'My mum has some great friends. We would love to connect with others in the same situation to share experiences and support each other.' 'Life is short and precious. We are grabbing it with both hands for as long as we can . 'As I said above my mum and I would love to connect with anyone experiencing the same as us.' Motor neurone disease is a rare condition that mainly affects people in their 60s and 70s, but it can affect adults of all ages. It's caused by a problem with cells in the brain and nerves called motor neurones. These cells gradually stop working over time. It's not known why this happens. If, like Imogen's mum, you're living with Motor Neurone Disease or know someone who is, and would like more information about the grants and wider support available or to donate to the charity please head to www.challengingmnd.org. Jenna Ortega has revealed she begged to be a producer on season one of Netflix hit Wednesday in a candid new interview with Vanity Fair. The actress, 21, who was branded 'toxic' for revealing she frequently changed her lines on the show last year, said it 'made sense' for her to be involved as a producer as she was onscreen all the time. The star who filmed Wednesday's first season aged just 18, said: 'Im aware of my position as an actor. I know that Im not in charge. But I think with someone like Wednesday, who is in every scene, it only makes sense for that person to be that involved in whats going on behind the scenes because shes onscreen every second of the project.' She says she was told it was not common for actors to produce in a first season - adding: 'And then I think a lot of the work that I ended up doing and a lot of the conversations that I was having were more of a producers conversations half the time.' Jenna has been made an executive producer on the show for its second season whose showrunner is Tim Burton. Jenna Ortega has revealed she begged to be a producer on season one of Netflix hit Wednesday in a candid new interview with Vanity Fair The actress, 21, who was branded 'toxic' for revealing she frequently changed her lines on the show last year, said it 'made sense' for her to be involved as a producer as she was onscreen all the time The star who filmed Wednesday's first season aged just 18, said: 'Im aware of my position as an actor. I know that Im not in charge. But I think with someone like Wednesday, who is in every scene, it only makes sense for that person to be that involved in whats going on behind the scenes because shes onscreen every second of the project' Last year Ortega's reveal that she routinely changed lines in Wednesday's script and became 'almost unprofessional' was criticized by fans and TV writers. The actress raised eyebrows when she admitted she was not always happy with the script and began tweaking her lines in an interview on the Armchair Expert With Dax Shepard podcast. She said: 'There were times on that set where I even became unprofessional, in a sense, where I just started changing lines,' she said. 'The script supervisor thought I was going with something,' she explained, 'and then I would have to sit down with the writers, and they'd be like, 'Wait, what happened to the scene?' And I would have to go through and explain why I couldn't do certain things.' Writer Michael Sheridan tweeted: 'Yeesh... now I get why writers are getting a bit upset about her comments. The way this is framed... it appears she claims she knew better than the writers, better than Tim Burton, & she's why the show was a hit. 'I don't know if she meant that, but that's how this reads.' Ortega said she now regrets her words, saying: 'To be fair, I think I probably could have been.I probably could have used my words better in describing all of that. I think, oftentimes, Im such a rambler. I think it was hard because I felt like had I represented the situation better, it probably wouldve been received better.' 'Everything that I said felt so magnified. It felt almost dystopian to me, I felt like a caricature of myself.' The star added that she got 'sick of herself' last year as her face was 'everywhere', saying: 'so its like, fair enough, if I were opening my phone and I saw the same girl with some stupid quote or something, I would be over it too.' She says she was told it was not common for actors to produce in a first season - adding: 'And then I think a lot of the work that I ended up doing and a lot of the conversations that I was having were more of a producers conversations half the time' Jenna has been made an executive producer on the show for its second season Last year Ortega's reveal that she routinely changed lines in Wednesday's script and became 'almost unprofessional' was criticized by fans and TV writers The actress wowed in a chic shoot for Vanity Fair Jenna wore an elaborate floral ensemble for one striking shot The Dax Shepherd interview saw Jenna state: 'I don't think I've ever had to put my foot down more on a set in a way that I had to on Wednesday.' 'Everything that [Wednesday] does, everything that I had to play, does not make sense for her character at all,' according to Ortega. 'Her being in a love triangle made no sense.' There was a line about a dress that she has to wear for a school dance and she said 'Oh my god I love it... ugh, I can't believe I said that, I literally hate myself.' And I had to go 'No.' The Disney alum also put her foot down about the circumstances leading up to her now viral dance. 'Initially, it was supposed to be a flash mob, and she was supposed to start dancing, and everyone was supposed to pick up on it and start dancing with her,' she shared. 'And that, I vetoed because why would she be OK with that?' she explained. 'I said, "Either cut it or have Wednesday knock someone out, and then it's done.''' Jenna admitted she was too overwhelmed with other tasks, including learning to fence and play cello, to work with a choreographer on the dance, and was allowed to create the moves herself. She was also unhappy with some of the 'morbid' things Wednesday had to say. 'When you're little and you say morbid, offensive stuff, it's funny and endearing and, "Aww, you don't know any better,"' she explained. Ortega said she now regrets her words, saying: ' To be fair, I think I probably could have been.I probably could have used my words better in describing all of that. I think, oftentimes, Im such a rambler' Jenna wowed in a disc adorned top for the shoot She posed up in a sweater for another glamorous shot Elsewhere in the interview Ortega broke her silence on the exit of Percy Hynes White from the show. He played a psychic Nevermore student, Xavier Thorpe - but left the series after facing a number of sexual misconduct allegations online - which he has denied 'But then you become a teenager it's, "Now you're being nasty and you know it." There's less excuse.' 'I really appreciate how candid Jenna Ortega seems to be about her experience working on Wednesday. You can be grateful for your success without being a hostage to 'I'm just grateful to be here,'' tweeted podcast host Jordan Crucchiola. 'I hope she keeps being very honest about her challenges.' Elsewhere in the interview Ortega broke her silence on the exit of Percy Hynes White - who she was rumored to be dating - from the show. He played a psychic Nevermore student, Xavier Thorpe who was one of the two main male leads and a romantic interest for Wednesday (Ortega). He left the series after facing a number of sexual misconduct allegations online - which he has denied. She said losing Hynes White has been 'a weird redirect, but were introducing so many different characters that I think it kind of will get lost. Wednesdays world does feel slightly askew anyway.' In September 2023 DailyMail.com exclusively reported that he was written out of the show after he was accused of purposefully getting women drunk at a Toronto party he hosted so he could have sex with them. In early 2023, White faced a series of sexual assault allegations which he adamantly denied as a 'campaign of misinformation.' In June last year, he issued a statement regarding the since-deleted anonymous social media posts from that past January. She said losing Hynes White has been 'a weird redirect, but were introducing so many different characters that I think it kind of will get lost. Wednesdays world does feel slightly askew anyway'; seen in January 2023 In his impassioned post, he wrote: 'Earlier this year, somebody I've never met started a campaign of misinformation about me online. Because of this, my family has been doxxed, and my friends have received death threats. Underage photos of me were used, and examples of me acting in character were presented as hateful.' He then went on about how one of his friends was 'falsely portrayed as a victim' and condemned the 'baseless, harmful claims.' Even though he would not be returning to Wednesday, he does have other projects in the pipeline, including Winter Spring Summer or Fall a romantic comedy he filed with Ortega in Utah earlier last year and is set for release in June 2024. Read the full story in Vanity Fairs September issue and on VanityFair.com Sabrina Carpenter has reacted to the rumor that she asked permission from best friend Taylor Swift to do an ad for Kim Kardashian's SKIMS. The 25-year-old chart topping artist touched on her friendship with the 34-year-old megastar in her Variety cover story. Back in April, the Espresso hitmaker burned up social media feeds as she appeared in a sexy campaign for shapewear brand SKIMS but many questioned if she had to ask Taylor for the okay to work with archenemy Kim Kardashian. She addressed those assertions as she said: 'Well, Taylor is a rock star! 'Shes just such a gangster with all of it. No matter what people are saying, everything that Ive ever seen her tackle, shes done so with grace. The posts about me having to "ask for her permission" no. Shes one of my best, best friends, and we grab dinner or text and catch up like you would with your best friend.' Sabrina Carpenter has reacted to the rumor that she asked permission from best friend Taylor Swift to do an ad for Kim Kardashian 's SKIMS Back in April, the Espresso hitmaker burned up social media feeds as she appeared in a sexy campaign for shapewear brand SKIMS but many questioned if she had to ask Taylor for the okay to work with archenemy Kim Kardashian She addressed those assertions as she said: 'Well, Taylor is a rock star! Shes just such a gangster with all of it. No matter what people are saying, everything that Ive ever seen her tackle, shes done so with grace. The posts about me having to "ask for her permission" no. Shes one of my best, best friends, and we grab dinner or text and catch up like you would with your best friend'; the pals are seen performing in Sydney back in February Taylor and Kim, 43, have been locked in a feud since 2016, and rising star Sabrina is a close friend of Taylor's, joining her as a support act for several dates of her Eras tour. Following the backlash she faced for working with The Kardashians star, speaking to Rolling Stone, Sabrina previously talked about the controversial decision in June. The Pennsylvania-born blonde insisted that the collaboration didn't cause any bad blood between her and Taylor. She told the publication: 'As much as people want to believe you're tuned into every little thing, I'm not because I'm constantly working. 'In that scenario, I've been very, very communicative with her about that situation, and I just love her so much and support her till the end. 'So it was no weirdness for me, but I know people will just say things because that's all they have time to do.' Taylor and Kim's feud began back in 2016 when Kim released a recorded phone call claiming that Taylor gave consent for her then-husband Kanye West to pen vulgar lyrics about her. Since then both stars have made various jibes and references to the row, with Taylor particularly taking aim in her 2017 album Reputation. The 25-year-old chart topping artist touched on her friendship with the 34-year-old megastar in her Variety cover story She looked stunning in a leather jacket with red pantyhose Sabrina looked absolutely gorgeous Taylor and Kim, 43, have been locked in a feud since 2016, and rising star Sabrina is a close friend of Taylor's, joining her as a support act for several dates of her Eras tour (Taylor and Kim in 2015) Following the backlash she faced for working with The Kardashians star, speaking to Rolling Stone , Sabrina previously talked about the controversial decision in June (pictured in September 2023) Sabrina seen in the SKIMS campaign earlier this year The latest development came when the pop star released her 11th studio album, The Tortured Poet's Department. It featured a song titled Thank You Aimee stylized as 'thanK you aIMee,' spelling out Kim in capital letters which fans took to refer to Kardashian due to their previous feuding. Meanwhile Sabrina has been dating hunky Irish actor Barry Keoghan for nearly a year. The two have kept relatively private about their relationship despite him starring as her love-interest in her latest music video for Please Please Please. She made a rare comment about the 31-year-old Saltburn actor as she told Variety: 'He loved the song. Hes obsessed with the lyrics, and Im so grateful for that. 'I dont want to sound biased, but I think hes one of the best actors of this generation. So getting to see him on the screen with my song as the soundtrack made the video better and all the more special.' Meanwhile Sabrina has been dating hunky Irish actor Barry Keoghan for nearly a year The two have kept relatively private about their relationship despite him starring as her love-interest in her latest music video for Please Please Please Later in the interview with Thania Garcia, Sabrina addresses their celestial compatibility after passing an astrology book. She said: 'Barrys a Libra, and so is my sister. Theyre very different, but they have similarities. I tend to gravitate towards Leos as well. 'My dads a Capricorn, so maybe thats not the direction for my future.' Her sophomore studio album, Short n' Sweet is set for release on Friday, August 23. Call The Midwife star Helen George sparked romance rumours on Tuesday following some cuddly snaps with a mystery man during her Italian holiday. The actress, 40, ignited speculation among fans online after sharing a slew of images from her latest getaway, featuring some new faces. She looked gorgeous in the carousel of images, including a bikini selfie and a few group photos where she was up-close with a previously-unseen brunette man. Curious fans of the star rushed to the comments, writing: 'Whos the new dude?' and 'A new beau? Very handsome!' However, Helen was quick to shut down the romance rumours and confirm that the mystery fan was in fact just a friend, who is married. Call The Midwife star Helen George sparked romance rumours on Tuesday following some cuddly snaps with a mystery man during her Italian holiday The actress, 40, ignited speculation among fans online after sharing a slew of images from her latest getaway, featuring some new faces She responded to one suggestive comment that asked who the man was, with: 'My best friends Ryan and Oliver who are married to each other,' alongside a laughing emoji. Finding humour in the situation, the actress went on to joke: 'Sadly Im not their type.' In the caption, Helen continued: 'Puglia with my wonderful friends. Thank you @yvette_robinson_ for such a wonderful trip and my best friends, husbands- @ryspeaks and @oliverthorntonhome for being wonderful and the best traveling pals a gal could wish for.' The star looked stunning in her holiday snaps, in group photos putting on a busty display and donning a black lacy maxi dress. Another picture with her pal saw the actress sporting a leopard print bikini and wearing her hair in plaits for a boat snap. Helen's Italian getaway comes just after she was spotted filming scenes for series 14 for the first time, after her on-screen husband Olly Rix was written out of the BBC show. The actress, who has played Nurse Trixie Franklin since the show's inception in 2012, transformed into the heroic midwife as the series steps closer to the 1970s. Call The Midwife's 14th series will begin with a festive special on Christmas Day before airing its full run of eight episodes in January 2025. She responded to one suggestive comment that asked who the man was, with: 'My best friends Ryan and Oliver who are married to each other,' alongside a laughing emoji However, Helen was quick to shut down the romance rumours and confirm that the mystery fan was in fact just a friend, who is married The actress, 40, ignited speculation among fans online after sharing a slew of images from her latest getaway, featuring some new faces The 13th series ended with Trixie opting to join her husband Matthew after he travelled to New York. However, after it was reported that actor Olly Rix had been written out of the series, it appears that Trixie will return to Poplar in future episodes, without her husband. It was recently reported that Helen and Olly have 'drifted apart' after leaning on each other for support following their splits from their respective partners. It was revealed that Helen had split from her partner Jack Ashton in July 2023 after seven years together, whilst Olly separated from his girlfriend Natasha Fagri at a similar time. In October she was snapped leaving Olly's home which sparked rumours of a growing connection between the pair. It was recently reported that Helen and Olly have 'drifted apart' after leaning on each other for support following their splits from their respective partners (pictured in character) Olly split from Natasha after seven years together in July after allegedly drifting apart due to work commitments (pictured together) Meanwhile, Helen split from her partner Jack Ashton the same month, after they first met on the set of Call The Midwife seven years prior (pictured together in 2022) Now it seems Olly has unfollowed Helen on Instagram, although she still follows him. A source told The Sun on Sunday: 'They were there for each other in the wake of their splits. 'But it seems they are no longer close and have made this clear by removing each other on social media. 'Olly even went one step further and deleted a picture of him and Helen from Instagram.' MailOnline has contacted representatives for both Helen George and Olly Rix for comment. Nation aims for beachhead in 6G development battle 08:28, August 06, 2024 By Ma Si ( China Daily Visitors wait in line to try AR glasses at the XREAL booth at the 2023 MWC. CHINA DAILY Chinese academic researchers and telecom operators are leaving no stone unturned in efforts to establish a beachhead for 6G, the next-generation wireless technology that has already turned into a key battleground for innovation and industrial transformation. Despite growing geopolitical interference in the global telecom industry, China has a solid foundation in telecom talent and patents, and its edge in 5G will help the country gain an upper hand in the race toward 6G research and development, experts and company executives said. The comments came as the world enters a crucial window of opportunity to identify technologies and formulate key standards for 6G. While there is still no universally accepted definition of the technology, 6G is expected to have far lower latency, higher speeds and more bandwidth than 5G. More importantly, the technology will be able to support the integration of space, air, territorial and maritime communication technologies, which will spawn a wide range of innovative applications, they added. China is aiming to commercialize the technology around 2030. "We will kick off a string of scientific projects targeting 6G and aim to achieve breakthroughs in crucial technologies," said Jin Zhuanglong, minister of industry and information technology. An attendee visits a booth featuring 6G RIS new large-scale antenna transmission technology at the Mobile World Congress in Shanghai, in June last year. CHINA DAILY Progress underway In July, a group of Chinese telecom engineers announced they had established the world's first field test network that integrates communications and intelligence. The experimental network has achieved remarkable improvements in key communication metrics, including capacity, coverage and efficiency, according to Zhang Ping, a Chinese Academy of Engineering academician and a professor at the Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications. The network serves as a platform for research institutions conducting theoretical research and initial verification of 6G pivotal technologies, and effectively lowers the entry threshold for 6G research, making it more accessible for innovation, according to the team of engineers. "The European Union, the United States, Japan, South Korea and other countries and regions have all initiated research on 6G, and China has unique strengths," said Wen Ku, director-general of the China Communications Standards Association. China has made remarkable strides in 5G infrastructure, which gives it an unparalleled edge in exploring 6G technologies, he said. By the end of May, China had built over 3.8 million 5G base stations, accounting for 60 percent of the global total. These advances have helped position China as a global leader in 5G technology, with over 60 percent of mobile communication users in the country now utilizing 5G services, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Meanwhile, China has handled over 94,000 5G applications in industries such as manufacturing, mining, power, ports and healthcare, the ministry added. "Advancing the use of 5G is like building a good bridge and road for 6G, and efforts to promote the large-scale application of 5G will lay a solid foundation for 6G development, which is still in the early stage," Wen said. More importantly, the country already has an early edge in 6G patent applications over the US and Japan. China's 6G patent applications accounted for 40.3 percent of the global total, and topped the list of global 6G patent filings, according to a survey conducted by Japanese media company Nikkei and Tokyo-based research company Cyber Creative Institute in 2021. The US and Japan took second and third spots on the list with 35.2 and 9.9 percent respectively, followed by Europe with 8.9 percent, and South Korea with 4.2 percent, the report said. In the telecom industry, countries with core advantages in previous-generation wireless technology are more likely to gain advantages in next-generation technology and achieve technological leadership and promote healthy industry development, China Galaxy Securities said in a research note. Yang Guang, senior chief analyst at the global market research company Omdia, said: "China believes that a mobile network is an important infrastructure that needs to be built ahead of schedule. Once the road is ready, cars will come naturally. The underlying condition is that Chinese operators are all State-owned enterprises and need to bear considerable social responsibility." European and US telecom operators are private enterprises, and their first consideration is financial performance. Their main objective is to reduce costs, which makes them less inclined to build infrastructure, Yang said. Participants read an information board at the opening of the Global 6G Conference 2024 in Nanjing on April 17. CHINA DAILY Vitality, innovation In sharp contrast to some countries' closed mindset in telecom development, China has highlighted that 6G requires consensus and close cooperation of all parties involved in the global industry, academia, research and applications. This will generate greater vitality and a more vibrant innovation atmosphere, experts said. Zhang Yunming, vice-minister of industry and information technology, has repeatedly called for more efforts to deepen international cooperation to promote the formulation of unified 6G global standards. Both Chinese and foreign telecom and smartphone companies have participated in China's 6G technical trials and tests, as 6G moves from a concept to a crucial stage of potential technological breakthroughs, said Wang Zhiqin, head of the IMT-2030 (6G) Promotion Group, a government-affiliated flagship platform for promoting 6G and international cooperation in the country. Wang said Nokia Shanghai Bell, Ericsson, China Mobile, China Telecom, China Unicom, Huawei, ZTE, Vivo and Inspur have participated in China's 6G technical trials and tests. China's 6G development adheres to the principle of open cooperation, strengthens international exchanges, and has inked cooperation agreements with partners in South Korea, Europe and India, she said. That is in contrast to what the US government has done. In February, a group of 10 countries, including the US and the United Kingdom, announced that they had endorsed a set of principles to underpin the development of secure and resilient 6G networks. Dong Yifan, an assistant research fellow at the Institute of European Studies at the Beijing-based China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, said this is an example of how US-led developed countries want to unite with their allies to have a bigger say in formulating 6G standards. "They have lost their edge in 5G and (now) they want to regain their strength in 6G, which has turned into a key battleground for innovation and industrial transformation," Dong said. "This is a typical US practice of forming a small group to contain China in the international telecom arena, which will, in fact, slow down the development of the entire global telecommunications technology, given China's unparalleled advantage in the telecom industry." The US government has already pressured a string of countries such as the UK into removing the telecom equipment of Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE from their 5G networks by fanning national security fears, which had never been substantiated, Dong added. Alex Sinclair, chief technology officer of GSMA, an industry group representing the world's biggest mobile phone operators, said it will work hard to avoid the so-called "small yard, high fence" situation with 6G. "If there are trends of isolation, it would have a negative impact on the industry and we would lose many advantages. Ultimately, the development of 6G technology standards should be a global collaborative effort involving academia, research institutions, and commercial sectors, including innovative technology companies," Sinclair said. A visitor wears VR glasses at the 7th Future Network Development Conference in Nanjing, in August 2023. CHINA DAILY Ready for liftoff Huang Yuhong, general manager of the China Mobile Research Institute, said that"6G is expected to be commercially available around 2030 in China, and 3GPP (an international organization for telecom technology development) is expected to start 6G standardization in 2025. As the day is drawing near, 6G R&D has now reached a key breakthrough period." China Mobile, the world's largest telecom carrier by mobile phone subscribers, successfully launched the world's first satellite to test 6G architecture in February, marking a milestone in its efforts to explore integrated space and ground communication technology. The low-Earth orbit test satellite is the first to employ 6G design architecture, which was jointly developed by China Mobile and the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Innovation Academy for Microsatellites. The system, utilizing domestic software and hardware, supports in-orbit software reconstruction, flexible deployment of core network functions and automated management, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the in-orbit operation of the satellite core network, China Mobile said. Orbiting at a height of approximately 500 kilometers, these satellites offer advantages such as low latency and high data transfer rates compared with high-orbit satellites. As a crucial platform for future integrated space and ground networks, low-earth orbit satellites can address telecom signal coverage gaps in terrestrial mobile networks, providing higher bandwidth satellite internet services globally, according to China Mobile. China Mobile said it plans to conduct in-orbit experiments based on these test satellites, accelerating the integration and development of space-to-ground technology industries. "In order to realize 6G commercialization by 2030, the base stations for forming 6G networks should be ready around 2029," Huang added. The global 6G market is predicted to reach $340 billion by 2040, with a compound annual growth rate of over 28 percent between 2031 and 2040, according to a report by the market analysis firm Market Research Future. The Asia-Pacific region, especially China, where more attention to satellite communications and related technological improvements takes place, will lead the trend, the report said. China Unicom, another major Chinese telecom, is also working hard to explore key potential technologies for 6G. The company expects to complete technical research and explore early application scenarios for 6G technology by 2025. China Unicom said it will promote close collaboration between the industry, the academic community and research institutes to carry out collaborative innovation in 6G unified network architecture and technologies. "In the past, Chinese companies worked with international organizations to establish standards for 3G, 4G and 5G technologies," said Xiang Ligang, director-general of the Information Consumption Alliance, a telecom industry association. "They should enhance their partnerships and cooperation with foreign counterparts to promote the formation of globally unified 6G standards." A researcher demonstrates a domestically-developed 6G network chip at a high-tech lab in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, in June 2023. JI CHUNPENG/XINHUA Crucial upgrade As the commercial application of 6G is still years away, Chinese telecom companies are also working hard to develop the 5G-Advanced, or 5G-A technology, which is a crucial upgrade to the 5G network in functionality and coverage and paves the way for key 6G technologies. For instance, 5G-A features 10-gigabit peak downlink speeds to meet increasingly diverse service requirements. Wang Tao, executive director of Huawei Technologies Co, said over 60 telecom operators and partners globally have announced the arrival of 5G-A this commercial year. Over 30 devices supporting 5G-A are set to launch this year, marking a significant milestone in the digital era. Wang said that 5G-A is a path for the industry that protects existing investments, while creating new business opportunities. He called for continuous enhancement of 5G-A technology to sustain the health and vitality of the 5G industry and to realize the vision of 5G transforming society. As 5G-A accelerates its commercial deployment, AI brings new opportunities for the telecommunications industry. Wang said that"2024 marks the convergence of the 5G-A commercial year and the AI-to-device year, heralding the mobile AI era where intelligent services become ubiquitous". (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Liang Jun) August 5, 2024: The Ukraine War is now in its third year and, by most standards, the Ukrainians are winning. A major factor in their success is the nearly $200 billion in military and humanitarian aid received since Russia invaded in early 2022. While Americans and Europeans were generous with their material aid, these nations have not sent troops, as many would have done if Ukraine were a NATO member. One reason Russia invaded was to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO. The invasion had the opposite effect because the NATO factor in the Russian decision to invade led members to realize how important NATO was in deterring attacks by hostile nations. Ever since NATO was formed in 1949, its purpose was to deter a Russian attack. In that respect NATO was a success. Russia made no secret of its desire to keep Ukraine out of NATO and that decision backfired. Because of the war, NATO is actively preparing Ukraine for NATO membership. If Ukraine had been a NATO member in 2021, Russia would not have invaded because it would have meant going to war with the entire NATO alliance. NATO can muster a much larger military force than Russia can handle. The combined military strength of NATO members amounts to 3.3 million troops, 22,000 aircraft and 2,200 military ships. Since Ukraine is not a NATO member, NATO nations are under no obligation to send their soldiers to fight the Russians in Ukraine. Even when it is suggested that NATO members sent their soldiers to fight in Ukraine, most NATO nations oppose doing so. A recent survey found that all NATO members continue to oppose sending soldiers to Ukraine, with the 26 percent of Swedes willing to do so being the highest of all NATO members. The least willing NATO member was Greece, where only four percent of voters supported sending soldiers to Ukraine. Since Ukraine is not a NATO member, European nations had an excuse for not sending soldiers to Ukraine. Once the fighting stops, Ukraine can join and benefit from other NATO nations being obligated to send troops as well as aid should Russia attack again. Russian leader Vladimir Putin is aware of this Ukrainian NATO membership angle and plans to keep the war going indefinitely to prevent Ukraine from joining. This tactic turned out to have a major flaw. Keeping the war going would mean Russian troops would have to remain in Ukraine to provide garrisons in Ukrainian territory Russia currently occupies. Pull Russian troops out and the Ukrainians will move in and reoccupy and reclaim their lost territory. Currently Russia occupies 161,000 square kilometers of Ukraine. This is about 27 percent of Ukraine. Ukraine suffered similar losses in population, mainly because of Ukrainians fleeing the country to avoid the combat and major disruptions to the civilian economy. Ukraine is the first major war in Europe since the end of World War II in 1945. NATO was formed in 1949 to prevent another major war. That worked for NATO members but not for Ukraine which was not a member but wanted to be one. And Just Like That star Sara Ramirez and Ryan Debolt have settled their divorce, six years after their separation. In new court documents, obtained by TMZ, it has been confirmed that the non-binary actor, 48, who previously played Che Diaz on the Sex and the City reboot, and DeBolt, 43, 'reached a settlement on all issues between them.' The former couple, who do not share any children, are still waiting for a judge to sign off on the divorce agreement. According to the outlet, the pair's 'marriage will officially be terminated on December 16.' Neither will be receiving spousal support following their split, which they did not publicly announce until 2021. And Just Like That star Sara Ramirez and Ryan Debolt have settled their divorce, six years after their separation; seen in 2019 In June, Ramirez, who came out as bisexual in 2016 and as non-binary in 2020, officially filed for divorce. They cited 'irreconcilable differences' as the cause. They listed their separation as January 2018 - although their split was only announced in 2021. In the separation announcement, Sara wrote: 'We remain loving and supportive in how we are choosing to forge our new individual paths. The pair tied the knot in New York in 2012 after getting engaged in Paris the year before. In January it was revealed Ramirez has been dropped from And Just Like That because their character Che Diaz was a waste of airtime, according to insiders, who shut down the actors claim that being pro-Palestine cost them the role. Ramirez, who uses they/them pronouns, implied they will not return for the third season of the Sex and the City spin-off in a series of posts shared to Instagram that month. They heavily suggested their time on the show was over as they claimed casting directors and agents are making black lists of actors and workers who post anything in support of Palestinians and Gaza to ensure they will not work again. In new court documents, obtained by TMZ, it has been confirmed that the non-binary actor, 48 and DeBolt, 43, 'reached a settlement on all issues between them' (seen in 2012) Their date of separation is listed as January 2018 - although their split was only announced in 2021 But a source close to the show ridiculed the suggestion, claiming Ramirezs head had been on the chopping block since last season because their character held no value anymore and was annoying. Sara was not fired because they support Palestine and the cease fire, they told DailyMail.com exclusively. Sara was fired because Che brought nothing to the show anymore. They were on the chopping block since last season. After Che split with Miranda, the character really held no value anymore and fans found them annoying. The storyline as a struggling comedian was a waste of airtime and Sara knew it. Che, a newcomer to the spin-off series who introduced themselves as a 'queer nonbinary Mexican Irish diva,' struck up a relationship with Miranda after she abandoned her marriage to husband Steve Brady. The character was accused of being the 'worst' on the series, which saw Miranda reunited on screen with Carrie Bradshaw and Charlotte York, played by Sarah Jessica Parker and Kristin Davis, respectively. Ramirez previously played Che Diaz on the Sex and the City reboot; seen above in character with Sarah Jessica Parker (seen in March 2023) Viewers found the character 'cringe' and accused them of '[setting] back non-binary representation 70 years.' Before portaying Che, the performer was best known for her role as Dr. Callie Torres on Grey's Anatomy for 11 seasons. Rowan blackmails Nick, Dee-Dee turns detective and Tracys back from Spain. Soap fans must read these plot spoilers from next weeks Corrie. 1. Aadi warns Amy Amy reveals to an excited Leanne shes looking to invest her inheritance in the new resource centre. However, she knows that she needs sign-off from Ken before she can get the money. When Aadi quizzes Amy about her plans, he warns her to make sure shes doing the right thing with Deirdres legacy, will Amy reconsider? 2. Cassie faces rejection After enjoying each others company at the County game, Cassie is pleased when Steve invites her to an evening of classical music in the park. Cassie gets all dressed up but is left shocked when Steve reveals that shes going with Ken as hes got a hot date with Demi. After she and Steve bicker, Cassie quits her job, but it seems she might reconsider after she overhears Ken taking a phone call 3. Nick worries for Toyah Toyah heads to hospital for her operation, and Rowan assures Leanne shes doing the right thing by distancing herself from Toyahs troubles. However, theres bad news when the consultant approaches Nick with an update on Toyahs condition. Nick calls Leanne, revealing that Toyah has suffered complications and she needs to get to the hospital as soon as possible 4. Does Dee-Dee smell a rat? Dee-Dee is perplexed when she spots a notification on Joels laptop, asking him to rate his experience at Belfast Airport. When she quizzes him, Joel tries to talk his way out of it, making out he was meant to go for work, but it got cancelled. Dee-Dee seems to accept his explanation, but is she really so convinced? 5. Leanne and Toyah reunite When Leanne gives Rowan the brush off as shes heading to the hospital to see Toyah, he worries that hes losing his grip on her. As Leanne hugs her sister, it's clear she wants to put their troubles behind them. 6. Paul pleads with Kit Kit visits Paul, and his brother plays him a message imploring him to forgive Bernie for the sake of the family. However, Kit is adamant on his feelings for their mum. When Paul suddenly finds himself struggling for breath, Kit is thrown into panic unsure of what to do to help his brother. 7. Dee-Dee turns detective Dee-Dee gives Emily a fairy charm for Maeves charm bracelet, but shes confused when Emily tells her Maeve doesnt have one. Her suspicions increase when Emily lets slip that Joel is still paying rent on his old flat. Checking in Joels briefcase, Dee-Dee finds a set of keys and lets herself into Joels flat. As she searches for evidence, convinced hes having an affair, will Dee-Dee get more than she bargained for? 8. Nick prepares to confess At the hospital, Nick tells Toyah that he loves her, and he plans to break the news to Leanne. Later, Nick listens to a message from Rowan demanding the 20k investment for The Institute or hell spill the beans about Nicks affair. Will Nick have to confess sooner rather than later? 9. Kits new home Kit moves into Glendas old room at the Rovers, soon realising that the pub is a great place to keep abreast of all the goings on in the Street. As Kit flirts with Daisy, Paul is left disappointed when he fails to join the rest of them for a family dinner. 10. Will Leanne choose family? Leanne is pleased when Simon invites her to visit him in Rotterdam. However, shes left torn when Rowan reveals that they are planning to fast-track her to the next level at The Institute. Nick urges Leanne to go and see her son, but where will Leannes loyalties lie? 11. Boys night out Its not just Daisy who is enjoying having Kit around as he and Ryan also hit it off. Ryans impressed with Kits vinyl selection and suggests going out for a drink. What might cunning Kit think is in it for him as he cosies up with his new chum? 12. Tracy comes home Tracy arrives back from Spain for a visit. She explains shes only visiting to see Amy, but Ken senses theres more to it than that. Once home, Tracy is shocked to discover that Cassie is working as Kens carer and its not long before Tracys comments manage to offend Cassie. ITV has defended allowing Ed Balls to interview his wife Yvette Cooper on Good Morning Britain. The broadcaster has come under fire after the former Labour cabinet minister - who is now a regular presenter on the ITV breakfast show - grilled his own wife during Monday's episode in her role as the home secretary. A spokesperson for GMB has now said: 'Following a weekend of rioting and national unrest, GMB featured a range of interviews and discussion around this national emergency on today's programme which included James Cleverly, shadow home secretary, and Yvette Cooper, home secretary. 'We are satisfied that these interviews were balanced, fair and duly impartial.' GMB was branded 'embarrassing to the extreme' by viewers after Ed interviewed his wife Yvette Cooper in a 'huge conflict of interests'. ITV has defended allowing Ed Balls to interview his wife Yvette Cooper on Good Morning Britain The broadcaster has come under fire after the former Labour cabinet minister - who is now a regular presenter on the ITV breakfast show - grilled his own wife during Monday's episode in her role as the home secretary Ed, 57, interviewed Home Secretary Yvette, 55, alongside Kate Garraway, 57, about the riots across the UK and asked what the police, government and social media sites should be doing. Ed and Kate questioned Yvette on the government's refusal to label the riots 'Islamophobic', as posed earlier in the programme by Zarah Sultana. Yvette began: 'What we've seen on the streets of some cities and towns over the weekend frankly is criminal violence and thuggery. 'That is what it is first and foremost, and that's why it needs the full force of the law behind it.' She added: 'We have certainly seen some targetted attacks on mosques, and that clearly reflects Islamophobia.' Ed said: 'Can I ask, because we've talked about this a few times in the last few days like many of our viewers will have done at home since those terrible killings in Southport there have been identifiable individuals on social media who have been inciting not just riots but violence. A spokesperson for GMB has now said: 'We are satisfied that these interviews were balanced, fair and duly impartial.' Largely ignoring the content of the interview, GMB viewers took exception to the decision to put Ed in that position on X, formerly Twitter 'They've been using racist language and falsehoods. This is happening on the social media platforms. 'What should be done by the social media companies and the police and the government to stop this happening? It's been happening for a week.' She replied: 'Well you're right, Ed. We have seen things appearing online that are clearly criminal. 'Social media has put rocket boosters under far-right extremist organisations and also some of the violence we have seen. Things that are criminal offline are also criminal online.' Ofcom has recently examined the issue of politicians hosting current affair programme after a debate over Nigel Farage's appearances on GB News during the general election campaign. The regulator has ruled that while the British public is 'instinctively uncomfortable' with the practice, there wasn't a 'clear consensus for an outright ban'. Largely ignoring the content of the interview, GMB viewers took exception to the decision to put Ed in such a compromising position on X, formerly Twitter. Ed and Yvette have been married since 1998 and share three children: Joe Balls, Mady Balls, and Ellie Cooper Chaos unfolded on the streets of Britain again in the wake of the Southport killings - as hundreds of people took to the streets in Birmingham and Plymouth (pictured) They wrote: 'Does @GMB realise just how utterly ridiculous it looks by continuing to invite @edballs on as a presenter whilst he defends the actions of the Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, his wife!?' 'Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is asked why the govt hasn't used the term 'Islamophobic'. In her answer Cooper (finally) uses the word. As for husband interviewing wife, how does #GMB think this is tenable?' 'Ed who's just treated @zarahsultana with contempt for suggesting MSM plays it's part in whipping up hate is about to interview his wife in an obvious conflict of interests even for a 5-year-old viewer. Stick to Kerry Katona and Strictly #Gmb' 'Interesting that Ed Balls doesn't interrupt his wife when interviewing but with other guests he does every 5 mins #gmb #goodmorningbritain' 'Ed Balls is going to interview his wife? How is this @GMB being impartial and NOT a huge conflict of interest, embarrassing in the extreme... and he hasn't talked to the home secretery about her job and the situation... really? (sic)' 'Is it really appropriate that Ed Balls is hosting news coverage directly concerning the response to the protests of his wife and the government she is a part of?' Violence erupted again in Belfast last night amid ongoing rioting around the UK 'Sorry this is insane! You can't have Ed Balls on a program 'interviewing' his own wife, what a stupid stupid editorial decision! I can't believe Yvette Cooper went along with this!' 'Why is Yvette Cooper's husband (Ed Balls) allowed to defend her abysmal handling of the race riots? I'm not sure this is allowed?'; 'I don't think Ed Balls should be interviewing Yvette Cooper on GMB. They're a married couple. It's ridiculous.' 'Surely good practice would mean that Ed Balls should not be on a programme that is featuring his wife, the Home Secretary Yvette Cooper . Get it sorted @gmb.' Ed and Yvette have been married since 1998 and share three children: Joe Balls, Mady Balls, and Ellie Cooper The removal of this tax, combined with procedural simplifications, promises to create a more dynamic and supportive environment for startups Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her seventh Budget, has proposed to abolish the Angel Tax, a significant move aimed at bolstering the Indian startup ecosystem. This tax had long been a contentious issue between startups and the Income Tax Department, acting as a major hindrance to growth and investment. The abolition of this tax, if coupled with procedural simplifications, could indeed be a game-changer, fostering a more vibrant and dynamic startup ecosystem that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship.The Angel Tax, essentially a tax on capital raised by unlisted companies through the issue of shares, was introduced under Section 56(2)(viii) of the Income Tax Act, 1961. It taxed investments above the fair market value of a company as 'Income from other sources', primarily affecting angel investors. The excess realization was considered income and taxed accordingly. This provision, while well-intentioned to curb money laundering, ended up stifling genuine investments and became a nightmare for startups.The abolition of this tax removes a significant barrier that has long hindered the growth of startups and discouraged investment. Startups can now raise capital without the looming fear of being taxed on perceived excess valuations, which often did not account for the future growth prospects and potential of these young companies. This move aligns with the government's broader agenda of promoting innovation, employment, education, skilling, and research. The abolition of the Angel Tax is expected to boost the entire startup ecosystem by making it easier for startups to attract investments. This, in turn, will stimulate economic growth and job creation. For instance, the comprehensive digitalization of taxpayer services and the simplification of the GST tax structure are indicative of the government's commitment to digitalization, which will benefit tech startups across various fields such as education, healthcare, and taxation.India has been a global leader in creating successful entrepreneurship opportunities in recent years. The investor community, including high-net-worth individuals (HNIs), foreign funds, venture capitalists, and angel investors, has remained bullish on the growth potential of the Indian startup ecosystem. However, the Angel Tax had cast a shadow over this optimism, causing significant distress among startups and investors alike.While the government's initiatives such as Startup India, Stand-up India, and Digital India have provided a favourable environment for startups, the Angel Tax was a significant pain point. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) had even shaken the startup ecosystem by directly deducting income tax under Section 68 from the bank accounts of certain startups on unexplained cash credits.The abolition of the Angel Tax, coupled with the recent notification simplifying compliance procedures, reflects the government's responsiveness to the concerns of the startup community. Startups no longer need to procure a fair market value certificate issued by a merchant banker or seek approval from an inter-ministerial board. Instead, they can request angel tax exemption from the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP) with the necessary supporting documents. The CBDT is mandated to respond to such applications within 45 days, providing much-needed clarity and certainty to startups.While the abolition of the Angel Tax is a significant step forward, its impact will depend on the implementation and further simplifications of procedures. The focus should be on creating a startup-friendly regulatory environment that encourages investment and innovation. The governments emphasis on digital public infrastructure and the digitalization of the economy will also play a crucial role in supporting tech startups and fostering a culture of innovation.Overall, the abolition of the Angel Tax is a welcome move that promises to remove a significant barrier to startup growth and investment. However, for this initiative to truly be a game-changer, it must be accompanied by procedural simplifications and a supportive regulatory environment. The governments continued focus on innovation, digitalization, and economic growth will be crucial in realizing the full potential of this policy change. This could very well mark the beginning of a new era for the Indian startup ecosystem, driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth in the years to come. (The author is a senior journalist and the views expressed are personal) Limiting scientific inquiry not only jeopardises public safety but also undermines trust in the authorities responsible for managing such crises The recent instance of the Kerala government's contentious gag order banning scientific institutions from studying the land slide-affected areas of Wayand has been met with resistance from the scientific community and civil society. Hours later, the order was withdrawn at the behest of the state's Chief Minister. But what is still worrying is how a government or a bureaucrat drafts such an insane order restricting the scientific community from undertaking any studies at Meppadi Panchayat, Wayanad, where the multiple landslides occurred on the morning of July 30 and airing their views to the media. Whatever has happened in Wayanad in the Western Ghats region or the Uttarakhand or Himachal Pradesh in the Himalayan belt is due to the hiding of scientific information from the public. If scientists communicate with the public rather than politicians or policymakers, it brings more validity and acceptance to society. Once we take the public into confidence, it can bring positive changes to society. These occurrences have emphasised the urgent requirement for thorough catastrophe planning and response methods, encompassing catastrophic earthquakes and tsunamis, industrial mishaps, and pandemics. An essential component in formulating these strategies is the implementation of scientific research carried out at disaster sites. Research conducted at catastrophe sites can improve preparedness and response techniques, ultimately preserving lives and mitigating economic losses in future occurrences. Imposing restrictions on scientific study threatens the general population's safety and erodes people's confidence in the authorities and organisations responsible for managing disasters. Freedom of scientific expression is crucial for all types of scientific research. To foster the continuous acquisition of knowledge, it is essential to create an atmosphere where scientists can openly communicate their ideas, exchange discoveries, and provide constructive criticism to one another without any concerns about being censored or facing negative consequences. Impeding scientific studies and suppressing the freedom of expression within the scientific community presents a severe danger to the advancement and credibility of Science. Science and scientific facts reveal the truth because researchers conduct systematic studies. In that case, why should one hide it from the media or the public? Unfortunately, every scientist in the country needs approval from their higher-ups to publish a paper or even a popular science article. A committee of few who don't have any work except criticising others oversees the author's creativity. It's a pathetic situation. It's like making things more complicated so that no one dares to venture into new things. Over the past few years, there has been a concerning increase in the occurrence and severity of catastrophes, including those caused by nature and human activities. These occurrences have emphasised the crucial requirement for thorough catastrophe planning and response methods. During the Joshimath sinking incident, there were reports of ISRO satellite images that showed that many parts of the Himalayas, including the famous Shimla ridge, were sinking. Unfortunately, that report soon vanished from the public domain. Had the information been available, people would be prepared to move from these regions instead of clinging to it.Restricting scientific investigation and hiding the information can lead to misinterpretation by unscrupulous historians, who may distort the true scientific explanations of natural disasters for their interest. This could harm future generations' comprehension of the scientific causes underlying these calamities. (The writer is an adjunct faculty at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru. Views are personal) The military has always codified its practices and procedures for institutional memory. So why is the Government shy of it and using the CDS to justify it? It is official now. After a decade of speculation over not whether and when a National Security Strategy (NSS) will be prepared and released, we were told that a written NSS is not needed. Indias second CDS, Gen Anil Chauhan, recently said at India International Centre New Delhi while releasing the book Indian Craft of War, that a National Security Policy, using the term as an alternative to NSS, was not needed in writing. He added: we have practices and processes in place.otherwise how did we do Article 370; handle COVID; Balakot air strikes. A cerebral retired General noted, it is in the head. < That we have gone on for 75 years without NSS does not mean we dont need one. The strategic ambiguity over not naming adversaries, missions, risks and opportunities is not worth a naya paisa in the contemporary geo-political context.The contradiction is this: in the cradle of strategic thinking, Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, its Commandant, Lt Gen Verinder Vats, regularly underlines the virtues of NSS to his tri-service students. There is no merit in explaining why a written document is necessary, indeed essential. All democracies, even authoritarian regimes have an NSS or White Paper on defence and security. For starters you can open former COAS Gen MM Naravanes latest unreleased book, Four Stars of Destiny, to learn of his unenviable predicament in waiting for orders during a grave and critical operational situation on LAC post-Galwan. Tragically, the Indian military has shied away from demanding a White Paper, Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) or any political guidance from the ruling political class. At a recent seminar on national security at New Delhis IIC, former NSA Shiv Shankar Menon disclosed categorically that during the UPA regime, a draft NSS was prepared thrice but it never saw the light of day. For Menons presentation, the discussant was former defence security NN Vohra, former Governor J&K, and Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister. He endorsed Menons claim and if further confirmation was needed it came from former Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran who was chairing the event. All three stated that the absence of political will let the NSS drafts collect dust. This raises the issue of the role and responsibility of not only civil servants but also more importantly of Service Chiefs who fail to persuade or even gently coerce the PM/RM on the issuance of written directives. In their single-service operational mission papers, they guesstimate their likely missions from the speeches of the Prime Minister during the Combined Commanders Conferences or elsewhere. The BJP/NDA government has fared no better than the UPA in providing political guidance to the armed forces. Its stellar achievement though was the creation of CDS, which for lack of consensus both among the armed forces and the political class, remained missing for decades. Then, in a burst of zeal, the BJP announced the appointment of CDS in December 2019 without consulting anyone. It is now stuck in the old groove of securing consensus among the military over theaterisation. It has taken a full five and a half years for RM Rajnath Singh to state, that too, in response to a question during an interview with PTI in May that consensus is growing among the services. Also in May, Gen Chauhan stated during a lecture at USI New Delhi that theorisation was imminent though there were differences over reforms. As CDS has become synonymous with theatrisation the government needs to be as decisive in setting a deadline for its blueprint and implementation as it was in appointing the CDS. But the IAF, especially has been saying that an NSS is a prerequisite to theatrisation. In 2018 when the Defence Planning Committee was created under NSA Ajit Doval, it was widely expected that an NSS would be prepared by it. It is no secret that two drafts of NSS are lying with Doval one prepared by Integrated Defence Staff and another by NSC Secretariate in 2021-22. But Gen Chauhan has closed the door to a scripted NSS though he did release last month a written tri-service cyber-space doctrine. Earlier, a tri-service Training Doctrine was also released which attracted severe criticism for its loopholes. One can ask how these documents can be written when there is no NSS and National Defence Strategy. India is the only emerging power with the fifth largest economy and fourth largest armed forces that does not have an NSS/NSP though it has fought four short wars, -lost one, won one with the remaining two ending in stalemate and one casualty-ridden successful border skirmish. There is hardly any mention or recognition of Indias first out-of-area 32-month IPKF CIS mission in Sri Lanka where coercive diplomacy failed even as 1171 Bravehearts sacrificed their lives. The CDS recently called IPKF a minor operation. High time an NSS was written after a strategic defence review. I can vouch for it as a member of the Defence Planning Staff, the forerunner of IDS, which produced the countrys first Defence Plan 2000 in 1988 after conducting a Security and Technology Environment Review that was lauded in Parliament. It was possible due to the political guidance from RRM Arun Singh and three dynamic service chiefs. The military has always codified its practices, processes, and procedures to be good for institutional memory. So why is the government shy of doing it and using CDS to justify it (The writer, a retired Major General, was Commander, IPKF South, Sri Lanka, and founder member of the Defence Planning Staff, currently the Integrated Defence Staff. The views are personal) Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Sunday inspected three major drains in the national Capital including Barapulla, Kushak and Sunehri Nalla and directed for comprehensive cleaning of these drains. During his visit, Saxena, who was accompanied by officials of the concerned drain-owning agencies like Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Irrigation and Flood Control Department (I&FC), was appalled to see the pathetic condition of these drains that were heavily choked with debris, silt deposit and a heap of construction and demolition waste. The drains that carry the storm water into the Yamuna have not been desilted and declogged over several years, which in turn, result into backflow of water in the city and the flooding of their catchment colonies which includes a large part of the South East and New Delhi areas, a statement by the Raj Niwas stated. The LG also oversaw the commencement of the desilting works on these sites and directed the agencies to complete the works positively within 15 days. The respective District Magistrates have been directed to submit daily reports on the cleaning operations with photographs, it stated. LG also directed officials of the I&FC Department, which owns the Barapulla Drain to clean all the bays immediately which were found lying heavily choked with silt, debris and garbage dumping from the adjoining slums. He also visited the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)-protected Old Barapulla Bridge. He directed District Magistrate (South East) to get all the encroachment cleared by joint action with I&FC, MCD, PWD and ASI and restore the bridge to its original state within a week, the statement said. Four JCB machines were deployed to clean the drains at Sunehri Nalla while the LG has directed for deploying more machines to declog the drains. Expressing his displeasure at the condition of drains and the inaction on part of the concerned agencies, LG directed for urgent corrective measures to ensure smooth flow of water to mitigate flooding, it said. Officials were instructed by Saxena to clear the encroachments along these arterial drains. He directed the officials to fence the drains so as to prevent the dumping of garbage and debris in the drains and asked them to monitor the drains through CCTV cameras and take action against those found dumping waste into the drains. A day after Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted and arrived here after resigning, the Government informed Parliament it is monitoring the situation with regard to minorities in the neighbouring country and is in close and continuous touch with the Indian community there through its diplomatic missions. The Government also apprised MPs about Hasinas very short notice request to come to India for the moment. Taking note of the likely impact of the turmoil in Bangladesh on India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also briefed an all-party meeting on the latest situation. He also did not rule out the role of foreign Government in the unrest there. Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar and National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval held a meeting to review the fast evolving situation in Bangladesh. They also took stock of the readiness of the forces on the India-Bangladesh border. Doval had met Hasina at the Hindon airbase on Monday. In a statement in the Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar also briefed the Elders on Hasinas very short notice request to come to India for the moment. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students. The bulk of the students, however, have already returned to India in the month of July, Jaishankar said. Elaborating upon the sequence of events, he said On August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi. The situation in Bangladesh is still evolving, he said. Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman , addressed the nation on August 5. He spoke about assuming responsibility and constituting an interim Government. We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions, Jaishankar said. India is also monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities, he said. In the all party-meeting, Jaishankar informed them India has assured help to Hasina, who arrived here on Monday evening, and given her time to decide the future course of action, sources said. Briefing political party leaders in Parliament House, Jaishankar said India has spoken to the Bangladesh Army Chief to ensure the safety of over 10,000 Indian students in that country, the sources said. Replying to questions from various leaders, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, the minister did not rule out the role of foreign governments in the unrest in the country but emphasised that the situation was too fluid, and the government has been keeping a watch on the evolving situation, they said. In the meeting, Rahul Gandhi asked if foreign governments might be involved in fuelling the crisis there. Jaishankar said that households and properties belonging to minorities were targeted by protestors in the neighbouring country. Noting that it has been not even 24 hours since Hasina arrived in India, he said she is in a state of shock and the government is giving her time to recover before it speaks to her over various issues, including her future plans, the sources said. Various leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, conveyed their full cooperation to the government on the issue. YSR Congress leader V Vijaysai Reddy said his party supports the government in the interest of the country. Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended, Jaishankar said in a social media post after the meeting. The all-party meeting was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Health Minister J P Nadda, JD(U) leader and Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh Lalan, JD(S) leader and Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, DMK leader T R Baalu, SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav, Trinamool leader Sudip Bandypapdhyay, NCP leader Supriya Sule among others. The AAP claimed that despite having 13 Members in Parliament 3 in Lok Sabha and 10 in Rajya Sabha it was not invited to be part of the all-party meeting. The issue of national security does not depend on who the prime minister is happy or angry with. Not inviting the Aam Aadmi Party, a national party with 13 MPs, to this important all-party meeting shows the petty mentality and lack of seriousness of the government, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh said in a social media post in Hindi. Singh said he hoped for an elected government to be established in Bangladesh to preserve the values of democracy and peace. Now, whatever government is formed there, it should have good relations with India. Along with this, we also need to keep an eye on the borders at this time, he added. CPI(M) member P Santosh Kumar said the situation in Bangladesh was very volatile. We are with the people of Bangladesh, not with Jamaat-e-Islami, military or with Sheikh Hasina. We are with students of Bangladesh. This is the fate of all autocrats, Kumar said. Samajwadi Party member Virendra Singh said the situation in Bangladesh was a message for all countries which do not listen to peoples voices. Similar situations happen in countries where attempts to end democracy and bring dictatorship take place. It is very unfortunate, Singh said. BJP Rajya Sabha member Lahar Singh Siroya said the government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are keeping an eye on the whole issue. They would have been taking necessary steps. Our country is capable of handling the issue, the BJP Rajya Sabha member said. The Border Security Force (BSF) has asked locals residing along the 4,096 km-long India-Bangladesh international border to not undertake unnecessary movement in the frontier areas especially during the night in the wake of the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in Dhaka, officials said on Tuesday. The border force has also asked all its units to maintain an alert posture all along the front that runs across West Bengal (2,217 km), Tripura (856 km), Meghalaya (443 km), Assam (262 km) and Mizoram (318 km). BSF Director General (Acting) Daljit Singh Chawdhary continued his border tour for the second day as he visited the Petrapole land port station, the largest such facility in South Asia located at a distance of about 80 km from Kolkata. The DG was accompanied by senior officers of the South Bengal Frontier of the force headquartered at Kolkata, officials said. They said the situation along the India-Bangladesh border is normal and added that the villagers and locals along the border areas in the five states have been asked to not undertake any unnecessary movement, especially during night These restrictions are already in place but now they are being reinforced further as the troops are on extra alert against any suspicious or criminal activity including illegal crossings, another officer from the eastern command of the BSF said. The BSF has deployed about 87 battalions for the security of the entire border area as part of its six frontiers. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Tuesday said illegal immigration is a grave threat to the states indigenous people and asserted that those who entered after 1961 should be deported with Central Governments help. In response to a query from Naga Peoples Front legislator Leishiyo Keishing in the Assembly, Singh described the situation as alarming, and stressed the need for unity in addressing illegal immigration. He remarked, It is an alarming situation. Illegal immigration has caused demographic changes but some sections do not believe it. Without unity, it is not possible to deal with the issue. Singh said the State has a 398-km porous and unguarded international border with Myanmar, which complicates the detection of illegal immigrants. He recalled that a Cabinet sub-committee led by Tribal Affairs and Development Minister Letpao Haokip had been formed to investigate the issue. The sub-committee, working with the Home Ministry, identified nearly 2,480 illegal immigrants, though this figure is subject to correction, he said and added that detecting these immigrants is challenging when they blend with local populations. The Chief Minister mentioned that new villages have been set up by illegal immigrants, with some areas inaccessible due to local conflicts with the Myanmar-based Peoples Defence Force (PDF). He said anyone sheltering illegal immigrants would face punishment under new orders. Previously, 140 to 150 immigrants from Churachandpur district were detained and moved to a shelter in Imphal, said the Chief Minister, adding that satellite data has revealed new villages forming after May 3, 2023, the day when the ethnic clashes started. The implementation of the Inner Line Permit system is based on the year 1961, he said. Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas travel plan to London remain fluid and she is likely to stay in India for a few more days after arriving here on Monday evening, sources said here on Tuesday. Hasina landed at the Hindon airbase on Monday in a C-130J military transport aircraft hours after resigning. This development arose after the UK Government indicated that she may not get legal protection against any possible probe into the massive violent protests in her country, they said. Hasina, who landed at the Hindon airbase on Monday in a C-130J military transport aircraft hours after resigning as the Prime Minister, has been shifted to an unspecified location under tight security, they said. The former Bangladesh prime minister, accompanied by her sister Sheikh Rehana, planned to leave for London from India to take temporary refuge but the option is not being pursued now. This is after the UK government indicated that she may not get legal protection against any possible probe into the massive violent protests in her country, they said. The Awami League leader planned to travel to London through India and her aides informed Indian authorities about it before she landed in Hindon, sources said. Hasina decided to travel to London as Rehanas daughter Tulip Siddiq is a member of the British Parliament. Tulip is economic secretary to the Treasury and Labour MP for Hampstead and Highgate. In a statement, British foreign secretary David Lammy said in London on Monday that Bangladesh has seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life in the last two weeks and people of the country deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events. The people in the know said Hasina has apprised New Delhi about her possible future steps. It is also learnt that Hasina has family members in Finland as well and that is why she also contemplated leaving for the northern European country. While saying that Hasinas travel plans have hit certain issues and she may stay in the country for the next couple of days, the people also described the situation as dynamic with no definitive path or clarity on the matter. The 76-year-old resigned as the prime minister following the massive protests that initially began as an agitation against a job quota scheme but weeks later morphed into a mass movement demanding her ouster from power. The controversial quota system provided for 30 per cent reservations in civil services jobs for the families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. Hasinas Awami League retained power in the parliamentary election in January that was boycotted by the opposition parties. The former Bangladesh prime minister left her official residence Ganabhavan in a military helicopter to an airbase, the sources said. From the airbase, she flew into Hindon in a C-130 military transport aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force, they said. August 6, 2024: Since 2023 Ukrainian long-range UAVs have been carrying out attacks deep inside Russia. The initial attacks damaged or destroyed over 30 oil storage sites and refineries. Subsequent attacks damaged or destroyed two electrical power substations. Hit this year was a full-cycle metallurgical plant, the largest in Russia and able to produce high quality metal for automotive and defense manufacturing. This attack cut off supplies of vital supplies for three plants that manufactured automobiles and trucks. The UAVs were designed and built in Ukraine. As a result they could be used for attacks deep inside Russia. Long range missiles supplied by NATO cannot be used for such attacks because NATO fears it could trigger similar Russian attacks on targets in nearby NATO countries and start a wider war. The losses to Russian petroleum and natural gas supply sites have been so heavy that the American government gave Russia some relief from economic sanctions on its oil exports, the same as it has done for Iran. The destruction of Russian oil supplies was a major problem for Russia, although a minor one for American consumers. For the Ukrainians it is an example of how they are inflicting major damage on the Russian economy. Russia is also suffering from economic sanctions imposed by NATO nations. Russia is very dependent on technology and specialized equipment available only from NATO nations. Most of those items are no longer available, although Russia can arrange to smuggle in some items at great cost. China has reversed an earlier policy and is now supplying Russia with high tech equipment it can no longer obtain from NATO countries because of sanctions. Russian leaders are dismayed at how effective the Ukrainians have been at destroying valuable Russian economic assets with long-range UAV attacks. Not only do most of the Ukrainian UAVs manage to evade Russian air defense systems, but the attacks on petroleum storage sites usually result in spectacular, difficult to extinguish and long lasting fires. These fires are visible to many Russian civilians who no longer accept the government explanation that the fires were the result of accidents. Sometimes the Russian oil storage sites are near factories that use that fuel for their operations. When the factories go up in flames along with the oil supplies, many Russians become unemployed. The damage is even more widespread because the large oil losses have caused shortages for Russian consumers. The Ukrainian attacks have reduced oil production and refining in Russia by a significant amount. As a result Russia banned oil exports until the internal supplies of oil returned to normal levels. As of mid-2024 the Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil storage and refining facilities continue as do the fuel shortages inside Russia. Civilians complain about the lack of air defenses inside Russia. In 2021 those air defense systems existed around major cities and key industrial targets. After the invasion, Russian forces encountered growing problems inside Ukraine and needed defenses against growing Ukrainian missile attacks. That meant S300 and shorter range air defense systems were gradually withdrawn from the Russian interior. The Ukrainians took advantage of this with the long-range UAVs they built and could use without NATO restrictions on targets deep inside Russia. All this means that considerable Russian resources are now devoted to repairing, restoring and maintaining petroleum storage and refining operations inside Russia. As of mid-2024 Russia has about 15 percent less fuel supplies, for internal use and export, than a year ago. The Ukrainian attacks continue, much to the embarrassment of the Russian government and its claims of imminent victory in Ukraine. In a significant stride towards creating a greener and more sustainable environment, AIIMS Bhopal organized a special plantation drive under the initiative "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam." Dr. (Prof.) Ajai Singh, Executive Director & CEO of AIIMS Bhopal, recently marked the completion of two years of dedicated service to the institution. To celebrate this milestone, he participated in a plantation drive alongside students and faculties, contributing significantly to the environmental initiative. During the drive, a total of 101 plants were planted as part of the institution's commitment to achieving a "Zero Carbon, Clean Campus and Green Campus." The event, held today at AIIMS, Bhopal saw the enthusiastic participation of faculty, staff, and students. With a profound emphasis on environmental conservation and community welfare, Prof. Ajai Singh reiterated the importance of maintaining cleanliness and greenery within not only the premises of AIIMS Bhopal but also its surrounding areas. Urban Development and Housing Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya emphasized the need to accelerate the recruitment process for cadre-wise vacant posts in urban bodies to enhance services for citizens. He highlighted Madhya Pradesh's rich forest resources and urged the department to undertake significant initiatives to establish the state as a green leader by working towards a pollution-free environment. Vijayvargiya made these remarks while reviewing departmental work at the Mantralaya in Bhopal today. Minister of State for Urban Development and Housing Smt. Pratima Bagri was also present during the meeting, where the progress of the department's Sankalp Patra was thoroughly reviewed. In the meeting, Minister ijayvargiya directed that metropolitan services should be strengthened in Bhopal and Indore. Works should be done through Metropolitan Authority to boost basic facilities in the towns around these cities. In the meeting, the proposal to form a separate directorate for the expansion and modernization of fire services was discussed. About Rs 300 crore has been received from the Central Government for modernization of fire service. Also, the state's share is Rs 100 crore. Minister of State Smt. Pratima Bagri said that during the incident of fire in rural areas, the services of such vehicles should be taken, which can easily reach the fields and rural areas. Minister Vijayvargiya directed to allocate dedicated laundry area for the Rajak community in urban areas. He said that this work should be started by identifying land in 5 metropolitan cities. It was told in the meeting that development works are being done in Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore, Jabalpur, Sagar, Satna and Ujjain with an investment of Rs 10 thousand crore. Out of this, works worth Rs 5 thousand 707 crore have been completed. Under the Electric Vehicle Promotion Policy, tenders have been issued for 552 e-buses in 6 cities. 70 electric buses are being operated in Indore. Work orders have been issued in 151 water supply projects under the department's Amrut 2.0 scheme. The number of Deendayal Antyodaya Kitchen Centres run by urban bodies has now increased to 191. Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, 7 lakh 92 thousand houses have been completed in the state. Principal Secretary Neeraj Mandloi informed that on August 12, a conference of women public representatives of urban bodies and Rakshabandhan programme will be organized in Ravindra Bhavan, Bhopal under the chief hospitality of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. About 3 thousand women public representatives are expected to attend the conference. Self-help group stalls will be set up in the conference. Representatives will be apprised about welfare schemes. Also, TDR portal will be launched by Town and Country Planning. Commissioner Urban Administration Bharat Yadav informed that this year a programme has been prepared to plant one crore 75 lakh saplings in all the urban areas of the state. The plantation programme will continue till September 15. Discussion on Bhopal city roads A discussion about the roads of the Bhopal Municipal Corporation was held in the meeting. Minister Vijayvargiya said that the repair work of the capital's roads should be undertaken on priority. Bhopal Municipal Corporation has roads of 2020 kilometers length. A significant step towards improving the lives of patients suffering from rare diseases was taken today as Prof. (Dr.) Ajai Singh, Executive Director, AIIMS Bhopal, inaugurated a dedicated Helpdesk "Aastha" within the Neonatology and Pediatrics OPD. Speaking at the inauguration, Prof. Singh expressed his optimism about the center's potential to provide hope and support to patients. He emphasized the importance of accessible healthcare and comprehensive support services for those affected by rare diseases. The Executive Director extended his gratitude to Pfizer and Doctors for You for their collaboration in making this initiative a reality. The event highlighted the challenges faced by rare disease patients and the solutions offered by the support center. Representatives from Pfizer and Doctors for You underscored the significance of their organizations' involvement in addressing the needs of this underserved patient population. AIIMS Bhopal officials detailed the enhanced healthcare services available to patients through the center, including a dedicated helpdesk. The helpdesk team will assist patients with various aspects of their healthcare journey, such as appointment scheduling, paperwork, travel arrangements, and accommodation. Additionally, the center will facilitate access to financial assistance for eligible patients under the National Rare Disease Policy. AIIMS Bhopal has secured a grant of Rs. 3 crore from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to procure essential medicines as per the NPRD 2021 guidelines. Gwalior Police arrest a fraudster who used to commit fraud by promising to get people transferred to various departments in the name of a Union Minister and his personal staff. The accused used to get his photographs clicked with influential people in religious attire and display them on his Facebook ID and used to cheat common people and public servants. Two inspectors have been suspended for committing gross misconduct by getting recommendations for desired transfers by staying in touch with the accused. The Gwalior Crime Branch received information that Pushpendra Dixit (Sharma),of Udalpada of Dabra Tehsil of Gwalior district introduces himself as the personal secretary of ministers of the Government of India and other public representatives through fake identity. Along with this, he prepares fake documents in the name of transfer of employees posted in Police Department and other departments and sends messages for transfer through SIM cards taken in the name of others. Pushpendra Dixit (Sharma) also sent messages to Madhya Pradesh Director General of Police and Special Director General of Police (Administration) by posing as Union Minister Giriraj Singh's personal secretary Jai Kishan and from a SIM card taken on the basis of forged documents, for posting of Inspector level officer Vinay Yadav from Shivpuri district to Bhind district and Pankaj Tyagi from Guna district to Gwalior district. Accused Pushpendra Dixit (Sharma), citing the name of the Union Minister and calling himself his personal secretary, also sought follow up on the status of transfer of these two inspectors. Goods seized from the accused In view of collecting evidence in the messages sent to the Director General of Police of Madhya Pradesh and Special Director General of Police (Administration), Police Headquarters, 5 mobiles, Rs 1 lakh in cash, several Aadhar cards and letters and documents made for other departments were seized from Pushpendra Dixit (Sharma), which are being analyzed. A case has been registered against Pushpendra Dixit (Sharma) in the Crime Branch Police Station of Gwalior under various sections of BNS and IT Act and investigation has been taken up. Detailed interrogation of the accused is going on. For committing gross misconduct by getting recommendations for desired transfer by staying in contact with the accused of criminal tendency Pushpendra Dixit (Sharma), the present Station Incharge Inspector Vinay Yadav of Bairadh of Shivpuri district and the present Station Incharge Inspector Pankaj Tyagi of Jamner of Guna district have been suspended and attached to the respective District Police Line Shivpuri and Guna. Earlier in the month of December 2016, the accused had sent a semi-official letter through the office of the then Union Minister of External Affairs and sent a forged letter to the Director General, Border Security Force Office, New Delhi for the transfer of BSF employees. When this letter was found to be forged, a case was registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code at Lodhi Colony Police Station in South Delhi and after investigation, it was also presented in the competent court. The working meeting of the Bharatiya Janata Party regarding the Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan convened on Tuesday at the State BJP headquarters. Addressing the meeting, the party's National Co-Organization General Secretary Shivprakash said that the entire society should participate in the Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said that the state government is also making preparations for Independence Day and the Minister-in-Charge will hoist the tricolor in every district on 15 August. State President and MP Vishnudutt Sharma said that the party workers should take a pledge to deliver the tricolor flag to all 1.5 crore families of the state during this campaign. State In-Charge Dr. Mahendra Singh said that today under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, our tricolor is flying all over the world, hoist it in every house on Independence Day. State Co-in-Charge Satish Upadhyay said that the young generation is not aware of the horrors of partition. Party workers should inform the youth about this during the Tiranga Abhiyan. Organizational General Secretary Hitanand said that innovation has been the identity of the party organization of Madhya Pradesh. Make efforts to ensure that this identity remains in the Har-Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan. During the meeting, Deputy Chief Minister of the state government, Jagdish Devda and Rajendra Shukla were present on the stage. Addressing the meeting, National Co-Organizational General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Shivprakash said that efforts are being made to divide the country on various grounds. But when a line has to be shortened, a bigger line is drawn in front of it. We want to shorten this divisive line by drawing the line of nationalism. Har-Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan is a part of this plan. Shivprakash said that for the Har-Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan, we will have to make efforts for the availability of tricolors, in which the help of the sisters of the self-help group can also be taken. Apart from this, tricolor flags can also be taken from other establishments and made available to the public. He said that we have to use this campaign to inform the youth about the horrors of partition. This is a very touching subject and in the riots that took place during the partition, crores of people were rendered homeless, lakhs were killed. But most of the youth are not aware of the events and tragedy of that time. Shivprakash said that the party workers should study themselves so that factual information can be given to the youth. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, while addressing the meeting, said that the liveliness of the Bharatiya Janata Party is that our party always works hand in hand with the society. There are many parties in the country and the state, but the biggest strength of our party is that the basis of every program of ours is the worker. Many countries in the world got independence with us or after us, but today the plight of democracy in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka is in front of everyone. Only the parties that awaken national sentiments like the Bharatiya Janata Party strengthen democracy. The Chief Minister said that the holy festival of brother-sister Rakshabandhan will be celebrated simultaneously at 25 thousand places in the state on 10 August. On the same day, an amount of Rs. 250 will be sent as a gift in the account of Laadli sisters in addition to Rs. 1250. August 15 and January 26 are the biggest festivals of all our festivals. Everyone should participate in celebrating Independence Day, so it is being celebrated a week in advance through the Har-Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said that on the call of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we will celebrate the festival of Independence Day with full joy. The August 30 meeting of the five jathedars (head priests) at Sri Akal Takht Sahib is expected to be a turning point in the ongoing SAD saga. The high-stakes gathering is set to dissect the storm of controversies surrounding the party president Sukhbir Singh Badals recent clarifications, which have only fueled the fires of discord within the party. Additionally, the session will tackle the contentious issue of Rs one crore worth of advertisements issued by the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC), which have become a lightning rod for criticism. The last rendezvous of the jathedars on July 15 had put Sukhbir on the spot, demanding a detailed explanation within a tight 15-day window, in response to the allegations levelled by party rebels. Sukhbirs response, submitted to Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh, has now been laid bare for public scrutiny, adding new layers to the unfolding drama. In his explanation, Sukhbir has taken responsibility for the sacrilege incidents and the controversial pardon given to the head of a religious sect, while the SGPC has defended its stance on the advertisements, attributing them to directives from former Jathedar Avtar Singh Makkar. The controversy is complicated by the internal strife within the Akali Dal, led by the rebel faction under Prem Singh Chandumajra. This group, which includes prominent members such as Sikandar Maluka, Gurpartap Singh Wadal, Parminder Singh Dhindsa, and Bibi Jagir Kaur, underscored the partys internal discord. Their dissent highlighted the party's recent electoral struggles, marked by significant losses. After maintaining a stronghold in Punjab's politics under Parkash Singh Badals leadership for a decade, the Akali Dals influence began to wane significantly. The 2017 state elections saw the partys seat count plummet to 18, while the Congress secured a commanding victory with 77 seats. The 2022 elections further illustrated this decline, with the Akali Dal managing only three seats amidst the Aam Aadmi Partys dominance. The Akali Dals declining fortunes are mirrored in its Lok Sabha performance. From winning four seats in 2004, the partys presence has dwindled to just one seat in the 2024 elections, reflecting a broader loss of public support. The rebel factions grievances include several critical allegations against the Akali Dals governance. These include retracting a complaint against Dera Sacha Sauda leader Gurmeet Ram Rahim, granting him a pardon, failing to adequately investigate sacrilege incidents, and not delivering justice for Sikh victims of alleged fake police encounters. These issues have fueled internal conflicts and eroded the partys public trust. Senior Badals 2015 Letter Also Went Viral Adding a historical dimension to the unfolding drama, a letter from the late Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal also emerged. Written in October 2015, Senior Badals letter expressed his profound distress following a series of sacrilege incidents in September. Addressed to the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht, the letter revealed Badals emotional struggle with the administrations failure to apprehend those responsible for these offenses. The letter, written in Punjab, read, As the head of Punjab's administration, I was fully aware of these unexpected events. I have strived to carry out my duties with dedication and hard work. However, despite my best efforts, sometimes unforeseen incidents occur.This has caused me deep distress and spiritual turmoil. Our sense of regret is profound, and during these challenging times, we find ourselves grappling with inner pain. We turn to our Guru, seeking strength and compassion to guide us through this period. Jamshedpur East MLA Saryu Roy, who reached Dhanbad on Tuesday, said that Jamshedpur East seat is included in his priority list as far as contesting Vidhan Sabha is concerned. However, since he is now part of JDU, the alliance leaders will decide what needs to be done. He clarified that there is already an alliance between BJP and JDU in Bihar and Jharkhand before he joined JDU. Therefore, only the senior leaders of the party led by national president of JDU will decide this. He said he is friends with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar since his student life. Roy hinted that the forthcoming assembly elections in Jharkhand will be a close contest between ruling and opposition alliance. It is certain that this time the assembly elections will be different in many respects," he added. New equations are likely and voters will be wooed in a new way. Roy was in Dhanbad to meet family members of former Jharkhand minister Baccha Singh, who died recently. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday highlighted his administrations achievement of providing 44,250 government jobs within 872 days averaging around 51 job placements daily over the last 2.5 years. Mann, speaking at a function to distribute appointment letters to 443 officers in the Police, Law, Justice, and Home Affairs Departments, emphasized that all recruitments were merit-based and transparent, designed to empower the youth and restore Punjab's historic glory. Lauding the newly-appointed officers and underscoring the importance of their roles in maintaining the state's integrity and safety, Mann said: Our goal from day one has been to empower our youth by providing them with government jobs, and today, we see the fruits of our labour. These appointments are a testament to our commitment to transparency and meritocracy, said Mann, encouraging the new recruits to serve with dedication and integrity, ensuring that their actions reflect positively on the government and benefit the people of Punjab. The Chief Minister announced the creation of 10,000 new positions in the Punjab Police, with the notification for recruitment already issued. The move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen law enforcement and ensure public safety across the State. By bolstering our police force, we aim to enhance our law enforcement capabilities significantly. The safety and security of our citizens are paramount, and these new positions will ensure that our police force is well-equipped to handle any challenges, said Mann. Mann detailed plans to recruit 1800 Constables and 300 Sub Inspectors annually for the next four years to address the police force's manpower shortage. He anticipated that this rigorous recruitment process will engage youth in academics and physical training, channeling their energy positively and deterring them from drug abuse. Our recruitment efforts are not just about filling positions but about shaping the future of our police force. By providing opportunities for our youth, we are helping them channel their energy in positive directions and away from harmful activities. This initiative will also ensure that our police force remains robust and capable of meeting the challenges of the future, he said. People Saving Rs 63L Daily After Toll Plazas Closure Highlighting fiscal reforms, Mann noted that the closure of 19 toll plazas in Punjab is saving residents Rs 63 lakh daily. This decision, made in the public interest, prevented the extension of toll plaza contracts, thereby directly benefiting the common man and enhancing the state's economic efficiency. By closing these toll plazas, we are not only saving money for our citizens but also making travel more convenient and hassle-free. This move is a significant step towards ensuring that the hard-earned money of Punjabis is not wasted on unnecessary toll fees, Mann explained. Rs 45-cr to Introduce AI in Punjab Police In a significant modernization effort, Mann revealed that Artificial Intelligence (AI) would be integrated into the Punjab Police at a cost of Rs 45 crore. Approximately 3,000 high-resolution AI-enabled cameras will be installed along the Indo-Pak border to curb smuggling activities. The initiative aimed at revolutionizing policing by leveraging advanced technology for enhanced surveillance and crime prevention. The integration of AI into our police force is a game-changer. These high-resolution cameras will provide real-time data and analytics, allowing us to monitor and prevent smuggling activities effectively. This technology will enhance our capabilities and ensure that we stay ahead in our fight against crime, said Mann. Enhancing Law Enforcement Resources Mann further highlighted the provision of 410 hi-tech vehicles to Station House Officers (SHOs) in Punjab Police, marking a departure from past practices where new vehicles were allocated to higher officers. Our SHOs are the backbone of our police force, and it is essential that they have the best resources at their disposal. These new vehicles will enable them to perform their duties more efficiently, ensuring that they can respond to incidents promptly and effectively, he said. Commitment to Eradicating Drug Menace Mann called on the police officers to play a proactive role in eradicating drug abuse in Punjab, reiterating that the state is at the forefront of the national fight against drugs. He emphasized the importance of upholding the Punjab Police's tradition of combating drug trafficking and ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens. Punjab is fighting a war against drugs, and our police force is on the front lines. It is crucial that we remain vigilant and proactive in our efforts to combat this menace. Our officers must uphold the highest standards of integrity and dedication in this fight," Mann urged. He highlighted the need for a coordinated and sustained effort to tackle the issue of drug abuse, ensuring that the police force is fully committed to eradicating this scourge from the state. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav today traveled by road from Jabalpur to Balaghat via Seoni to take stock of the situation arising out of excessive rainfall in the state. He inspected the rain-affected areas. The Chief Minister directed the administrative officials to make adequate protective arrangements for the people and animals affected by excessive rains. He said farmers and common citizens affected by excessive rainfall will be compensated per the rules. During his journey by road, the Chief Minister was welcomed in every village by people of all sections along with public representatives. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav discussed and addressed the people's on the way. He said that Seoni-Balaghat road will soon be made four lane. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav gifted the public the construction of a new building of Kurrai College and the construction of a model road with a divider in the urban area of Barghat. Behnas celebrate Rakhi with the Chief Minister in Nagandevri, Lakhnadon, Ganeshganj, Chhapara, and Bandol When Chief Minister Dr. Yadav reached village Banjari located on the Seoni-Jabalpur border from Jabalpur by road, he was welcomed by local public representatives including MLA Barghat Kamal Marskole, District Panchayat President Smt. Malti Dehariya and senior District officers. On the way from village Banjari to Seoni, women tied rakhi to Chief Minister Dr. Yadav in Nagandevri, Lakhnadon, Ganeshganj, Chhapara, and Bandol. He congratulated the sisters on Raksha Bandhan and Krishna Janmashtami. Instructions given to officials after observing the backwater area of ??the Bhimgarh Dam Chief Minister Dr. Yadav stopped the vehicle on the bridge of the Bainganga river located in Chhapara tehsil in Seoni district and offered prayers and flowers at the Bainganga river. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav inspected the backwater of Bhimgarh Dam and took stock of the flood situation caused by excessive rainfall on July 22. He sought information regarding water logging areas and affected villages during heavy rains and directed Collector Sanskriti Jain to make necessary arrangements. I will never forget the love of the sisters of Seoni district Chief Minister Yadav was greeted by the city residents at Seoni district headquarters. He said that the state government is celebrating festivals with sisters throughout August. Many important decisions have been taken by the government in the favour of women's empowerment. He informed that the festival of Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated in the state on August 10. On this occasion, in addition to the amount of Rs 1250 per month given to the Ladli Behnas of the state, an amount of Rs 250 is being additionally transferred to their bank accounts for Raksha Bandhan so that they can celebrate the festival with full enthusiasm. He said that on August 10, grand events will be organized village-wise, ward-wise, body-wise, and district-wise. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that he will always cherish the love of the sisters of Seoni district in his memory. Model road with divider will be built in Barghat Chief Minister Yadav instructed the officials to immediately repair the potholes on the Seoni-Balaghat road. He announced that the Seoni-Balaghat state road will be made four lane after testing. He announced the construction of a new college building in Kurai and a model road with dividers in the urban area of Barghat. Bajaria police have booked two miscreants who gang raped a 27-year-old woman after sedating her on Saturday; police have started search for the accused. Police said that the victim was accompanied by the accused to his house. Here he gave the woman a water laced with sedative and raped her. After this, another friend of the accused also raped the woman. Later, the victim was let go after threatening to kill her if she informed anyone about the incident. On Sunday night, Bajaria police station registered a case against both the accused. Efforts are being made to arrest both of them. Station in-charge Jitendra Singh Gurjar said that the woman lives in Jahangirabad police station area. She has started living separately from her husband. The woman works as a housekeeper in a hotel. After separating from her husband, the woman came in contact with a young man named Rishi Kushwaha. They became friends. The young man lured the woman into marriage and developed friendship with her. After a few days, the woman came to know that the young man had made a false promise of marriage and he is already married. As soon as she came to know that the young man was already married, the woman distanced herself from him and stopped talking to him. Late Saturday night, the woman was returning home after finishing work from the hotel when she met Rishi Kushwaha on the way. He asked the woman to come with him, he said that he wanted to talk to her about something. When the woman refused, he threatened to defame her by telling everyone about their old love affair. When the woman got scared, the young man took her to his house in Bajaria area. Here he gave the woman sedated water to drink. As soon as she drank the water, the woman started becoming unconscious. Afterwhich the young man raped her. After a while, a friend of Rishi also reached there and he also raped the woman. After the incident, both of them threatened to kill the woman. Due to this, she remained scared for a few hours but on Sunday night she reached the police station and lodged a complaint. The police have registered a case under sections 64, 70 (1), 351 (3) and 3 (5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and have started looking for the accused Rishi and his friend. The SHO said that Rishi's friend will be identified only after his arrest. August 6, 2024: While Ukrainian USVs (Unmanned Surface Vessels) defeated the Russian Black Fleet, destroying or disabling over a third of the Russian ships, the surviving ships continued to survive in distant ports like Novorossiysk. Although that port, and smaller ones nearby, are more than a thousand kilometers distant, they are still under attack. While Russia has lost the use of its naval bases in Crimea, especially Sevastopol, they believed their Black Sea Fleet could restore and rebuild itself in those distant ports while coming up with a solution to the seemingly unstoppable Ukrainian USVs. The Ukrainian USVs are made of a material that is nearly invisible to radar. Each can carry up to 850 kg of explosives. Less explosives can be carried if you want the USV to travel farther. With a full load of explosives, it can reach targets up to 1,000 kilometers distant, so the Russian Black Sea Fleets remaining ports are within its range. Top speed is 90 kilometers an hour but more economical, in terms of fuel use, cruise speed is about half the top speed. That means it would take the USVs about twenty hours to travel a thousand kilometers. That is a one-way trip to a target, like a naval base or any ships docked at the base which are then attacked. These USVs navigate using several devices including GPS, INS, and short range sensors to detect and avoid obstacles. These sensors can be programmed to identify and attack a specific target like a ship or other naval base facility. USVs can also be equipped with short range weapons like explosive rockets that can hit targets a thousand meters distant with thermobaric/fuel air warheads. When used to launch rocket attacks, the USVs can escape and return to a Ukrainian base for reuse. Some USVs are equipped with video cameras to carry out reconnaissance and surveillance missions. In this case, communications equipment must be carried to transmit video or individual digital photos back to the Ukrainian base. The Ukrainians have been very imaginative and flexible in their use of these unmanned seagoing vessels. In May 2024 the Ukrainian USV and UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) attacks on the Russian naval base at Novorossiysk succeeded in damaging port and logistics facilities. Additional UAV attacks were made on oil storage facilities using over fifty UAVs. This many UAVs overwhelmed Russian air defenses and made it possible for numerous Russian targets to be hit. Later, residents of the target areas reported hearing numerous explosions followed by outbreaks of large fires, most of them in the oil storage facilities. Since 2023 Ukrainian UAV attacks have been hitting Russian oil refining and storage sites deep inside Russia. These operations have caused fuel shortages for Russian forces inside Ukraine. USVs were used in the mid-2023 Kerch Strait Bridge attack. Each USV carried 850 kg of explosives that inflicted enough damage to render the bridge unusable. The bridge is a key transport route for getting supplies into Crimea and, as of mid-2024, was available for limited use by trucks. Cargoes of Fuel and munitions were not allowed on the bridge because if any of these cargoes were hit by a Ukrainian UAV attack, the damage to the bridge would render it useless for months until more repairs were made. During 2023 Ukrainian USV operations in the Black Sea forced the Russian Black Sea Fleet to withdraw to the eastern shore of the Black Sea. Sevastopol was no longer a safe place to be, and Russian ships could no longer launch their Kalibr cruise missiles without moving closer to Ukrainian territory and risking attack by Ukrainian USVs. The presence and aggressive use of the USVs means that Ukraines grain corridor has been kept open despite Russias threats to interfere. Beyond symbolic significance, the corridor holds critical economic importance for Ukraine and is expected to contribute nearly ten percent to GDP growth in 2024 because of the resumed grain shipments and arrival of essential imports. The aggressive and successful use of Ukrainian USVs against the Russian Black Sea fleet was unprecedented in the history of naval warfare. Not only were these USVs tactically successful, but financially as well. For example, new frigates cost about $1.5 billion each. That much money can pay for 5,000 such USVs. Destroyers cost twice as much. The frigates and destroyers are high seas ships and can travel all over the world. The USVs operate in coastal waters although some of the larger USVs can operate up to a thousand kilometers from where they were launched. These USVs carry video cameras and satellite-based communications systems to collect information and, in peacetime, do so without fear of attack. Severe storms are another matter, but any storm damage will be broadcast as it is happening, at least until the video cameras or communications equipment are disabled. Commercial cargo ships can carry hundreds of armed USVs equipped with satellite communications so operators anywhere in the world can control them. These USVs can be unloaded at sea and sent to carry out attacks on targets in the area or move to a nearby harbor and remain tied to a dock until needed. The only maintenance is keeping the USV batteries charged. These USVs are a radical new weapon for naval warfare and the war at sea will never be the same because of the success of Ukrainian USVs in their victorious war against the Russian Black Sea Fleet. Nations with major warship fleets, like the U.S. and China, have much to fear from this new development of weaponized seagoing USVs. These USVs are difficult to spot visually, especially at night. Sonar can detect them, and autocannon-equipped ship weapons, like Phalanx, can be adapted to accurately target and destroy USVs. Since the United States provides most of the military aid to Ukraine, they can get some cooperation from the Ukrainians that will help American warships and those of other NATO nations develop weapons and tactics to deal with USVs. The Russians were taken by surprise when their Black Sea Fleet was attacked by USVs. In less than a year, most of the Black Sea Fleet warships were destroyed or severely damaged by USVs. Because of the USVs, Ukraine, which does not have a conventional navy, now controls most of the Black Sea. When Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022, the invaders also expected to reinforce and expand their control of the Black Sea. This included blocking Ukrainian grain exports, which would drive up prices for Russian grain exports. That financial goal was never met because Ukraine fought back with USVs and some air strikes to not only contest efforts to expand Russian control of the Black Sea, but also disrupt Russian naval operations in the Black Sea as well as Russian use of the Crimean Peninsula as bases for naval, air force and army operations. In 2022 Russia had numerous warships in the Black Sea and these came under heavy attack by Ukrainian USVs and missiles. This led to the destruction of the flagship of the Black Sea fleet and systematic attacks on the remaining Russian warships. Ukraine didnt have any ships of their own for these attacks and had to improvise. Ukraine used armed UAVs and USVs for these attacks, as well as some land-based guided missiles. This eventually forced Russia to abandon Crimean naval and air force bases. This included the major Crimean port and naval base of Sevastopol. The growing number of Ukrainian attacks on Crimea forced most of the surviving Russian Black Sea Fleet to move. The UAVs and USVs carry explosive warheads to destroy military targets, including bases, ports, headquarters, and airfields. While civilian targets are spared, the military facilities are a major source of employment. When these facilities are damaged, destroyed and shut down, the civilians begin to leave. Now Ukrainian forces are getting close to the narrow isthmus that connects Crimea to the mainland and the other access point, the Kerch Strait bridge in southeastern Crimea is also under constant attack. As the situation in Crimea deteriorates, corruption by local officials makes matters worse for the remaining civilians and persuades a growing number of them to leave. In late 2023, advancing Ukrainian forces were close enough to the narrow isthmus connecting Crimea to the mainland that the only Russian rail line carrying supplies to occupied Crimea was within range of GMLRS missile attacks. These NATO-supplied missiles are carried and launched from HIMARS vehicles. They have a range of 80 kilometers and are a constant threat to Russian supply lines, including ports and ships in the Black Sea. Ukraine had already disabled the other rail supply route to Crimea, which used the Kerch Strait bridge. Ukraine used various types of UAVs, USVs and novel UUVs (unmanned underwater vessels) to do this, as well as destroy Russian air defenses in Crimea and drive the remaining ships of the Black Sea fleet to port on the east coast of the Black Sea. The largest of these eastern Black Sea ports is Novorossiysk, which had a small naval base facility added in 2012. Now it is being used to host the surviving remnants of the Black Sea Fleet. While Novorossiysk is mainly a commercial port, exporting oil and other goods produced in the area and handling most of the imports, most of that has been halted because of the Ukrainian unmanned weapons that now make the Black Sea a dangerous place for Russian ships of any type. Ukraine did this without a fleet of its own. The Russians were still able to launch missile attacks on Ukrainian ports using submarine-launched cruise missiles as well as land-based missiles. These Russian attacks became less frequent as the Ukrainians forced Russian naval forces farther away from Ukrainian export ports west of Crimea. The Russian ships are forced to remain in these distant ports by what amounts to a continuing Ukrainian blockade. Ujjain police have nabbed accused involved in stealing Rs 23 lakh from ATM. The accused entered the ATM wearing a black helmet-raincoat and ran away with the money in 10 minutes. The mastermind of the theft of more than Rs 22.93 lakh from an ATM in Khachrod, Ujjain, turned out to be a maintenance employee. The accused, who holds an MSc (IT) degree, committed the crime along with his friend. The police arrested both the accused within 24 hours of filing the FIR. The incident took place on the night of 28 July at a Bank of India ATM just 500 meters away from Khachrod police station. It was revealed on August 5, when bank employees came to withdraw cash from the deposit machine. They did not find the cassette in the ATM installed near the deposit machine. The CCTV cameras of the ATM gallery were sprayed with black paint. Ujjain SP Pradeep Sharma said, 'On August 5, the bank's branch manager Neelkamal Panchal had lodged an FIR. He had told that the password door, four cassettes for keeping cash and Rs 22.93 lakh were stolen from the ATM. When the CCTV cameras were checked, two people were seen entering the ATM between 1 and 2 in the night of July 28 They were wearing black helmet and raincoat. One person sprayed on the CCTV cameras while the other was seen tampering with the machine. Within 10 minutes, both were seen carrying away the goods in a black bag.' During the investigation, it became clear that whoever has committed the theft, has complete knowledge about the ATM machine. There was no vandalism in the machine. It was opened by entering the password. During interrogation of the bank employees, it was found that the private agency had sent Rituraj Singh for the maintenance of the ATM on 26th July. On the basis of this input, the police took Rituraj into custody. At first, he tried to mislead the police, but broke down when strict action was taken. He accepted that he had stolen the ATM along with Shubham Joshi. He told that he had given some of the stolen money to Shubham without counting it. The rest was hidden at his relative's house in Nalkheda, Agar Malwa. Rituraj Singh told that he had gone to the ATM gallery for maintenance with the bank employees at around 5 pm on 26th July. During this time, a bank employee opened the machine. At that time, Rituraj saw the password. Later, he wrote it down. With the help of this password, they opened the machine on the night of 28-29 and committed the theft. The pictures were captured in the camera of the ATM situated in front The accused sprayed black paint on the cameras of the ATM gallery so that nothing could be seen in the footage. But they were caught stealing money from another ATM situated in front of the ATM from which they stole money. Unemployment Forum and Political Student Union demonstrated in front of Madhya Pradesh Staff Selection Board on Monday. Students have demanded an increase in the post of Sub Engineer 2024 Civil Engineering. Aarti Sharma, who participated in the demonstration, said that this time about 283 vacancies of Sub Engineer have been released. In which there is also a quota for women and Divyang. Whereas 588 vacancies were to be released. We have come here with the demands of an increase in posts. We are all students from different districts, who are preparing for the exam. These students have also submitted a memorandum to the board. In which they have written that no vacancy has been released this year in many departments of Civil Engineering like Rural Mechanical Services (RES), Water Resources Department (WRD), Urban Development Department (UADD), Housing Board. The lack of vacancies in these important departments is very disappointing for the students, and this is adversely affecting the employment prospects of the students. Therefore, it is requested that vacancies should be released in these departments as well so that all eligible candidates can get adequate employment opportunities. The students have also submitted a memorandum to the Staff Selection Board regarding the demands. Apart from this, vacancies have been released only for disabled candidates in Public Health Engineering (PHE) and Public Works Department (PWD) this year. This arrangement is very unfair because it is necessary to have vacancies for general candidates as well in these departments. Limiting such vacancies only to disabled candidates is unfair to other candidates. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, at a high-level meeting with the Higher Education department officials on Tuesday, directed for formation of a new policy to encourage private investment in the sector. Key guidelines from the chief ministers meeting on Tuesday are as follows: Over the past seven years, one university per division has been achieved, with universities established in all 18 divisions. Construction is ongoing in several divisions. Now, the focus should shift to achieving one university per district. Currently, there are universities in 35 districts. The private sector can significantly support the establishment of universities in the remaining districts. Private sector investment in higher education should be promoted, as it can play a crucial role in achieving our objectives. In light of the increasing demand for higher education in the state, private investment can significantly bolster government efforts to expand access. This will increase the number of institutions, courses, and seats available to students and enhance the quality of education and research. As the youngest state in India, Uttar Pradesh has a unique position in the higher education sector. With an average age of 21 years, which is expected to rise to 26 years by 2030, Uttar Pradesh will contribute 16.5% to Indias youth population. Currently, the states gross enrollment rate (GER) is 25.6%, which needs to increase to 50% by 2035 according to the National Education Policy (NEP). A policy promoting private investment can help bridge this gap. Private investment in higher education is crucial at this time. Examine the related policies of other states, engage with stakeholders, and promptly develop and present a higher education promotion policy. The new policy should include incentives for investors, such as exemptions in stamp duty and capital subsidies. The new policy should also provide additional incentives for establishing universities in aspirational districts. Prioritise this aspect. Similarly, special incentive provisions should be included in proposals to develop campuses akin to the worlds top-ranked universities. A key organizer of Bangladeshs student protests Tuesday called for Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus to head an interim government, a day after longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country following weeks of deadly unrest. Hasina resigned and fled the country by helicopter as protesters defied military curfew orders to march on the capital, before thousands of demonstrators stormed her official residence and other buildings associated with her party and family. Her depature came after weeks of protests against a quota system for government jobs descended into deadly violence, fuelling a broader challenge to her 15-year rule. The government attempted to quell demonstrations by shutting schools, imposing curfews and sending in troops to shoot tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition, leading to some 300 deaths, but those heavy-handed tactics only drove further discontent. Bangladeshs figurehead president and its top military commander said late Monday that an interim government would be formed soon to preside over new elections. Yunus, who is in Paris according to Indian media, told student leaders he would be willing to serve, considering the present situation of the country, organizer Nahid Islam said in a video posted to social media. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday attacked Sukhbir Singh Badal over the 2015 sacrilege incidents after the SAD chief sought "unconditional forgiveness" for "all mistakes" when his party was in power, saying an apology is for mistakes, not for crimes. Addressing a gathering at State Van Mahotsav event here, Mann further said his government is collecting "new evidences" in the 2015 incidents pertaining to desecration of Guru Granth Sahib and asserted that exemplary punishment will be given to the guilty. Apparently referring to Badal, Mann said some people are asking for forgiveness for their mistakes. "After some reporters asked about it, I said an apology is for mistakes, not for crimes. There is punishment for crimes. You committed crimes," said Mann without taking anybody's name. A mistake may be committed knowingly or unknowingly but what is committed intentionally is a crime, he asserted. In a letter to the jathedar of the Akal Takht made public on Monday, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD)chief Badal has sought "unconditional forgiveness" for "all mistakes" committed when the party was in power in Punjab. Referring to the 2015 sacrilege cases, Mann said, "We are collecting new evidence in the matter. Some people, who were earlier not speaking, have come forward now. We are getting fresh documents." "Everybody has pain (about sacrilege incidents). Punishment must be given for this," he said. "In few days, we will have some fresh documents. One cannot think that people can stoop to such a level (committing sacrilege)," said Mann. The CM also took a dig at the rebel Akali leaders, who revolted against Badal, saying they remained "mum" for eight years in raising their voice. "Now other (rebels) group is saying they committed a mistake as they could not raise their voice. It is an eight-year-old incident. What does it mean they could not speak," he asked. Incidents related to the theft of a 'bir (copy)' of the Guru Granth Sahib, putting up of handwritten sacrilegious posters and torn pages of the holy book found scattered at Bargari had taken place in Faridkot in 2015 when the SAD was in power. During the anti-sacrilege protests in Faridkot, two persons were killed and several injured in police firing. The Akal Takht Secretariat in Amritsar on Monday released a copy of the three-page letter that Badal submitted to Giani Raghbir Singh, the Akal Takht jathedar on the rebel leaders' accusations, on July 24. Rebel SAD leaders, including former MP Prem Singh Chandumajra and ex-Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) chief Bibi Jagir Kaur, appeared before the jathedar on July 1. They had sought forgiveness for "four mistakes" during the SAD regime between 2007 and 2017, including failure to punish those responsible for 2015 sacrilege incidents and pardoning Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in a 2007 blasphemy case. They had also held Badal, the then deputy chief minister, responsible for the "mistakes". A section of party leaders revolted against Badal, asking him to step down as party chief following the party's debacle in the Lok Sabha polls in Punjab. Delhi minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Tuesday accused the health secretary of getting a false affidavit filed in the high court on the issue of alleged lack of infrastructure in Delhi government-run hospitals and claimed it was a "conspiracy to trap him". There was no immediate reaction from the health secretary, but the LG Secretariat officials alleged that the minister was once again making "false statements to not only mislead the people of Delhi but the judiciary as well". The AAP minister said he would write to the Law Department for strict action against the health secretary and the Standing Counsel of the Services Department. Addressing a press conference, Bharadwaj said that for the last several years a petition regarding health services in the national capital is being heard in the Delhi High Court. The High Court constituted a committee under the chairmanship of Dr. Sarin and it presented its report before the court which passed an order saying the Delhi government should work according to the recommendations of the committee. An affidavit was presented before the Delhi High Court on behalf of the Health Department of Delhi in this regard, but despite being the Health Minister of Delhi, neither was that affidavit shown to me nor was it approved by me," he charged. He said, "For a long time, I have been writing letters to the chief secretary and the health secretary, telling them that there is a huge shortage of medicines in the Delhi government hospitals and Mohalla Clinics," Despite that, a false affidavit was presented before the High Court, in which it was said that there was no shortage of medicines in Delhi Government hospitals and Mohalla Clinics. AAP ministers have accused senior bureaucrats in Delhi government of ignoring their directions since pre-eminence was given to the lieutenant governor over the elected dispensation in controlling services in the national capital. The minister said from 2023 till now, it has been said many times by him and the Law Department that if any affidavit is given to the High Court or Supreme Court or NGT on behalf of the department, then "it should be approved by the minister in charge because ultimately the accountability lies with the minister". "Despite saying it many times, this affidavit was given to the Delhi High Court without my knowledge and without approval, he claimed. He claimed that the affidavit was given to the High Court not by the Standing Counsel of the Delhi Government, but by the Standing Counsel of the Services Department under the Lieutenant Governor (LG). "So many lies have been written in this affidavit. If this affidavit was filed by the lawyer of the Delhi Government, he would have definitely sought the approval of the minister," he said. Noting that the recommendations given by the court are very important, he said all medicines should be available for patients in hospitals and there should be a stock of at least two months. In the affidavit submitted by the Standing Counsel of the Services Department in the High Court, it is clearly written that the tender for CPA has been done and all these tenders will be completed by June 15, he added. Stressing that the affidavit has not been approved by him but by the Health Secretary, he alleged that "the things written in this affidavit are lies, whereas the truth is exactly the opposite". The LG Secretariat dismissed the minister's allegations. "Yet another misleading and false statement made by the Press Conference Minister, this time to not only mislead the people of Delhi but the Judiciary as well. "This Secretariat will react substantively to statements made by the Health Minister where substantive points are raised, not to inanities of the PC Minister," it said. Bharadwaj alleged the main purpose behind the affidavit was to 'maintain the shortage of medicines in hospitals and Mohalla Clinics, harass the public and defame the elected government of Delhi among the people of Delhi". In this affidavit, he has mentioned files related to two different cases and said that both these files are pending with the Health Minister. Whereas I want to tell you that not even one of these files has been sent to me till date. Despite this, a conspiracy has been hatched to defame and trap me before the court by writing lies in this matter, he asserted. Shortly after INDIA bloc parties held a protest on the steps leading up to the Makar Dwar of Parliament, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday said it was "not appropriate" and reminded members to abide by the "consensus" reached earlier of not holding any demonstration at the entrance. INDIA bloc parties held a protest on the Parliament premises to press for the rollback of 18 per cent GST on life and health insurance premiums. MPs from parties such as the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Congress, AAP and NCP-Sharadchandra Pawar, among others, participated in the protest on the steps leading to the Makar Dwar. Carrying placards reading "Tax terrorism", the protesting MPs raised slogans demanding that the GST on life and health insurance premiums be rolled back. After papers were laid on the table, Birla said, "After discussions with all parties, a consensus was reached that protests and demonstrations would not be held on any of the Dwars of the Parliament House. Many members, especially women, had written to me that they were inconvenienced due to blocking of the way." "A decision was taken that no protest or demonstration would be held on any 'Dwar (entrance)' of Parliament House. I request all of you to abide by the decisions that have been taken by you I had gone there in the morning, this is not appropriate," the speaker said. Once an agreement is reached, it is everyone's responsibility to implement it, Birla said. Congress MP Manickam Tagore and TMC member Kalyan Banerjee asked the speaker where the opposition should protest. Banerjee asked where the opposition could protest when Mahatma Gandhi's statue, where demonstrations were traditionally held, had been moved to another location. Banerjee continued to raise the issue as the speaker went ahead with taking up matters of urgent public importance. Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina's plan to travel to London has hit a roadblock over some "uncertainties" and she is unlikely to move out of India for the next couple of days, people familiar with the matter said on Tuesday. Hasina, who landed at the Hindon airbase on Monday in a C-130J military transport aircraft hours after resigning as the prime minister, has been shifted to an unspecified location under tight security, they said. The former Bangladesh prime minister, accompanied by her sister Sheikh Rehana, planned to leave for London from India to take temporary refuge but the option is not being pursued now. This is after the UK government indicated that she may not get legal protection against any possible probe into the massive violent protests in her country, they said. The Awami League leader planned to travel to London through India and her aides informed Indian authorities about it before she landed in Hindon, the people cited above said. Hasina decided to travel to London as Rehana's daughter Tulip Siddiq is a member of the British Parliament. Tulip is economic secretary to the Treasury and Labour MP for Hampstead and Highgate. In a statement, British foreign secretary David Lammy said in London on Monday that Bangladesh has seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life in the last two weeks and people of the country "deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events". The people in the know said Hasina has apprised New Delhi about her possible future steps. It is also learnt that Hasina has family members in Finland as well and that is why she also contemplated leaving for the northern European country. While saying that Hasina's travel plans have hit certain issues and she may stay in the country for the next couple of days, the people also described the situation as dynamic with no definitive path or clarity on the matter. The 76-year-old who ruled the South Asian country with an iron fist for 15 years, resigned as the prime minister following the massive protests that initially began as an agitation against a job quota scheme but weeks later morphed into a mass movement demanding her ouster from power. The controversial quota system provided for 30 per cent reservations in civil services jobs for the families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. Hasina's Awami League retained power in the parliamentary election in January that was boycotted by the opposition parties. The former Bangladesh prime minister left her official residence Ganabhavan in a military chopper to an airbase, the sources said. From the airbase, she flew into Hindon in a C-130 military transport aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force, they said. India is monitoring the situation with regard to minorities in Bangladesh and is in "close and continuous" touch with the Indian community there through its diplomatic missions, the government informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. In a statement to the Upper House, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also briefed the MPs on former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's "very short notice" request to come to India "for the moment". He said India has instructed its border guarding forces to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex and still evolving situation in the neighbouring country. "There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students. The bulk of the students, however, have already returned to India in the month of July," Jaishankar told the Upper House. "On August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India," he said. "We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi. The situation in Bangladesh is still evolving," he said. "Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman , addressed the nation on August 5. He spoke about assuming responsibility and constituting an interim government. We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions," Jaishankar said. India is also monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities, he said. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday told an all-party meeting that India has assured help to former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who arrived here on Monday evening, and given her time to decide the future course of action, sources said. Briefing political party leaders in Parliament House, Jaishankar said India was in touch with the Bangladesh Army to ensure the safety of over 10,000 Indian students in that country, the sources said. "Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended," Jaishankar posted on X after the meeting. Congress leader Karti Chidambaram said the government had briefed an all-party meeting on the situation in Bangladesh. Congress party is fully with the government as far as national security and national interest are concerned," Chidamabaram told PTI. However, he was not present at the meeting. Bangladesh plunged into uncertainty after extraordinary street protests over job quota forced Prime Minister Hasina to quit and flee. The all-party meeting was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, DMK leader T R Baalu, NCP leader Supriya Sule among others. Japans defence minister held talks with senior officials in Cambodia, a top ally of China, on Monday as he began a Southeast Asian trip that will also take him to Vietnam, whose relations with Beijing are complicated by maritime disputes. Japan has historically maintained warm relations with Cambodia, but its influence is minor compared to that of China, Tokyos biggest geopolitical rival in Asia, with growing influence throughout Southeast Asia. Tokyo is disturbed by Chinas aggressive maritime activity, as are several Southeast Asian nations, and seeks to counter Beijings diplomatic and economic outreach. Defence Minister Minoru Kihara held talks with his Cambodian counterpart, Tea Seiha, as well as with Prime Minister Hun Manet and former Prime Minister Hun Sen, who is now president of the Senate, Defence Ministry spokesperson Gen. Chhum Sochet said on his Facebook page. He said the two defence ministers vowed to promote cooperation. especially in human resources and exchanges of personnel visits, as spelled out in a 2013 memorandum of understanding. A separate Defence Ministry statement said the two sides agreed to hold a joint military training course covering disaster rescue operations and to exchange military attaches. Kihara told reporters before his trip that Japan has been stepping up defence ties with Cambodia and Vietnam in recent years and that he hopes to deepen cooperation. Southeast Asian countries are in strategically important areas that are part of Japans crucial sea lanes, Kihara said. He said Japan has elevated its relations with both Cambodia and Vietnam to the level of comprehensive and strategic partnership. Kihara said he hoped to share his understanding of the strategic environment in the region and reinforce defence and security cooperation with Cambodia and Vietnam. Kiharas visit coincided with Cambodias breaking ground on Monday on a controversial China-backed canal linking the capital, Phnom Penh, with the sea, despite environmental concerns and the risk of straining ties with neighbouring Vietnam. The USD 1.7 billion, 180-kilometre Funan Techo canal is to connect Phnom Penh with Kep province on Cambodias southern coast, giving it access to the Gulf of Thailand. Cambodia hopes the 100-metre-wide, 5.4-metre-deep canal will lower the cost of shipping goods to the countrys sole deepwater port, Sihanoukville, and reduce reliance on Vietnamese ports. China has gained outsize political and economic influence in Cambodia through aid and investment in major infrastructure projects. Cambodia is a key regional diplomatic partner for Beijing, helping dampen criticism within the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, several of whose members are engaged in territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea. In June 2022, China helped Cambodia break ground on a naval port expansion project that has raised concerns from the US and others that it could give Beijing a strategically important military outpost on the Gulf of Thailand. Cambodian officials deny China will have any special basing privileges and say their country maintains a neutral defence posture. 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West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Zip Code The Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Barr, has paid tribute to the work of local justice campaigner John Kelly on his retirement after 27 years with the Bloody Sunday Trust. Mayor Barr hosted a civic reception in the Guildhall Main Hall, where family, friends and colleagues gathered to acknowledge his work over the decades on behalf of the Trust and the people of the city. During this time Mr Kelly has campaigned tirelessly on behalf of the Bloody Sunday families, including his own brother Michael who was murdered on the day. Speaking after the event, Mayor Barr, said that John had been an articulate and committed advocate for peace and reconciliation and provided a voice for the families when they needed it most throughout their campaign for justice. It was an honour for me to hold this civic reception for John this evening, and to shine a spotlight on the invaluable work he has done over the years in the most challenging times, she said. John has achieved so much through his work supporting local families throughout the Bloody Sunday Justice Campaign and he continued to promote truth and educate people about the past through his role at the Trust. The Mayor, Lillian Seenoi-Barr makes a special presentation to John Kelly on the occasion a reception in the Guildhall on Monday evening to mark his retirement from the Bloody Sunday Trust. Included are John's family. "I want to take this opportunity on behalf of the people of the City and District to thank John, and wish him all the best on his retirement. He leaves a valuable legacy at the Museum of Free Derry, and I know he will continue to be a guiding light and inspiration for other justice campaigners long into the future. Police in Derry seized suspected Class A drugs and made an arrest while on patrol in the Waterside on Monday, August 5. Shortly before 11.00pm, Waterside Neighbourhood Policing Team officers in the Strathfoyle area were alerted to a vehicle, and the way it was being driven. Officers subsequently spoke with the male driver and conducted a search, which resulted in the seizure of a quantity of suspected Class A drugs. The male was arrested on suspicion of Possession of a Class A controlled drug, Being concerned in the supply of a Class A controlled drug and Possession of a Class A controlled drug with intent to supply. Enquiries by police also resulted in the male being arrested on suspicion of driving-related offences, including driving when unfit through drink or drug, driving while disqualified, and using a motor vehicle without insurance. The man arrested remains in custody at this time. To make a report to police, call 101 or submit a report online via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ Police also encourage anyone with information or concerns about the illegal use or supply of drugs to make a report via 101. Alternatively, information can also be given anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org 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. Macronix achieves ISO/SAE 21434 Information Security Standard Product certification for ArmorFlash MX78 series, embracing automotive security chip market With the rise and widespread application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, apart from the popular autonomous driving systems in the automotive market, a significant number of software-defined automotive systems are also experiencing rapid growth. These software-managed systems create new passenger and driving experiences. Behind these cutting-edge smart solutions, primary concerns about AI revolve around "information security and cybersecurity" protection, thereby catalyzing the rapid adoption of the secure flash memory. Macronix faced an urgent need to meet memory security requirements for automotive and industrial control electronic data, to ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability. To address this, they developed the ArmorFlash series of secure flash memory solutions. These solutions include key establishment, encryption, decryption, authentication, and anti-tamper functions. Additionally, a true random number generator is integrated into the memory chips for secure ID or key configurations. ArmorFlash supports various security functions such as identity authentication, crypto key, and secure-boot mechanisms. The ArmorFlash series has received recognition from international autonomous-driving and microcontroller unit (MCU) chip giants, and has earned accolades such as the Taiwan Excellence Award. The ArmorFlash MX78 series fully complies with ISO/SAE 21434 Information Security Standard Certification The ISO/SAE 21434 Standard was officially released at the end of August 2021, covering the entire vehicle lifecycle and emphasizing the requirements for cybersecurity risk management. Macronix promptly formed a project team to intensively prepare for the ArmorFlash MX78 series' standard certification, first passing TARA verification activities to assess various scenarios in which threats occur and determine solutions when encountering information security attacks. They also obtained the ISO/SAE 21434 threat analysis and risk assessments (TARA) verification report on June 2022, subsequently achieving full ISO/SAE 21434 Information Security Standard Product Certification in 2024, which marked a significant milestone in cybersecurity design. The enhanced data access performance of ArmorFlash enhances brand customer user experience Dr. Donald Huang, director of product marketing at Macronix, emphasized in an interview that advancements in AI applications, such as AI, edge computing, 5G and autonomous driving, are leading to exponential growth in data volume, thus driving the demand for memory. With AI applications increasingly capable of operating independently on multiple terminal devices and personal electronics, secure flash memory plays a crucial role in enhancing system security. To enhance user experience, the third-generation ArmorFlash MX78 series has been redesigned with a renewed focus on the speed of accessing data. It currently operates more than one hundred times faster than the previous generation of ArmorFlash. This enhancement significantly aids electronic devices in smoothly executing critical security functions during startup, thereby improving overall user operational experience. In an era where speed is paramount across various applications, the access speed of secure memory undoubtedly plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal brand reputation and product quality. Additionally, ArmorFlash's integrated design consolidates all security functions into a single memory chip, meeting critical security certification standards. This contrasts with typical practices whereby chip manufacturers require additional security chips for specific certifications. Furthermore, ArmorFlash uses a standard Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) that is pin-to-pin compatible with standard NOR Flash SPI or OctaBus interfaces, unlike products using proprietary interfaces. By integrating the standard SPI interface into a single-chip design, ArmorFlash significantly reduces design complexity for engineering teams. This approach not only enhances product performance but also accelerates volume production and time-to-market, providing a competitive edge in seizing valuable market opportunities. ArmorFlash earns favor from leading global automotive OEMs, automotive electronics manufacturers, and industrial control giants Since 2019, Macronix's first-generation ArmorFlash has been integrated within NVIDIA's Level 2+ to Level 5 autonomous driving systems, including the DRIVE AGX Xavier and AGX Pegasus autonomous vehicle computing platforms. By leveraging robust secure memory capabilities, ArmorFlash has strengthened data security in autonomous systems and enhanced driver safety. The second and third generations of the ArmorFlash MX78 series have now achieved ISO/SAE 21434 standards, putting focus on "cybersecurity" design. This accomplishment has facilitated Macronix's memory products to secure significant partnerships with major international autonomous driving solution providers and automotive MCU chip manufacturers, as well as adoption by leading automotive and automotive electronics manufacturers. Beyond the automotive sector, ArmorFlash chips are also employed in industrial control and embedded application systems, such as Japan's Renesas Electronics RA series of MCUs. By utilizing ArmorFlash chips featuring integrated hardware encryption accelerators, cybersecurity is bolstered, and more secure and dependable network connections across various embedded applications are ensured. In addition to the aforementioned technologies, ArmorFlash also offers a physical unclonable function (PUF), which functions similarly to chip biometrics with a fundamental encoding method. This equips the chip with a chip fingerprint capability, providing memory chips with unique, unpredictable physical characteristics and non-replicable key features. These properties offer high-level encryption and are applied in various information security and confidentiality applications. Huang emphasized that the identification and prevention of potential information security and cybersecurity threats is an ongoing pursuit. Macronix has already obtained automotive information security standard certifications but continues to reinforce efforts at every stage, from product design and development to volume production and market launch. This ongoing effort aims to identify potential threats and security vulnerabilities, establishing a common foundation for cybersecurity risk management. The newly launched ArmorFlash MX78 series of flash memory solutions significantly shortens the time to market for customers' products, meeting the urgent needs for the automotive, industrial control, and embedded application markets. Through ArmorFlash technology, Macronix is in a strong position to expand its international market presence and continue collaborating with global customers to sustain its success. Macronix ArmorFlash MX78 Serie Achieves ISO/SAE 21434 Information Security Standard Product Certification The HSE MMR vaccine catch up programme is now running in community vaccination clinics in Louth. Clinics will be running at the below locations: The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine. It protects against 3 serious conditions caused by viruses: measles measles mumps mumps rubella (german measles) These conditions are very infectious. They can easily spread between unvaccinated people and lead to serious problems. For example, meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy. Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide the best protection. Measles is a highly infectious disease that can cause serious complications, particularly in children under one year of age, pregnant women, and the immunosuppressed. The MMR catch-up campaign aims to protect against measles due to a rise in cases of the disease in the UK and Europe. The campaign focuses on delivering the MMR vaccine to key groups, who may have missed their vaccines in the past: Children age 1 year and older Children age 1 year and older Health and Care workers Health and Care workers People born in Ireland on or after 1 January 1978 People born in Ireland on or after 1 January 1978 People born outside of Ireland and at risk of measles infection Those eligible are those born in Ireland from 1 January 1978 and do not have evidence of two MMR vaccines or if born outside of Ireland and do not have evidence of two MMR vaccines at any age. If you are planning a holiday outside Ireland, you can now get your baby vaccinated before you go. They must be between 6 and 11 months. They should then get their next dose as normal at 12 months and the final dose in junior infants. Read Next: Driver in Louth tests positive for cocaine after overtaking on solid white line MMR vaccines are available free of charge from GPs to all groups, but primarily to those under 18 years, and from HSE community clinics for eligible people. A list of Vaccination Clinics is available here: https://www2.hse.ie/services/mmr-vaccine/vaccination-clinics. All clinics are walk-in or you can book an appointment by visiting: https://www2.hse.ie/services/mmr-vaccine/book-an-appointment. Additionally, the HSE will also provide targeted clinics for specific groups including students and young people in education settings and underserved groups. Further information about measles symptoms is available at: https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/measles/. If you have these symptoms, please seek medical advice. Phone ahead before attending your GP, Emergency Department or other healthcare provider to inform the healthcare professionals that you have these symptoms, so they can make necessary arrangements. In addition, please alert medical staff if you have been in contact with someone who has measles or if you have recently travelled to an area where you know measles has been spreading. Pictured above: Liane Costello, Clean Coasts Biodiversity Officer, Agnese Santoro, Clean Coasts Communication Officer, Sinead Keogh, Clean Coasts Coastal Programmes Officer, Ciara Kenny, Scarlett Kenny, Aubrey Kenny, Bronagh Moore, Clean Coasts Coastal Communities Manager and Cathal Kealey, Head of Marketing and PR at Kia Ireland The Big Beach Clean 2024 is back and Clean Coasts are asking volunteers from Louth to register to join the campaign. From September 20th to 22nd, volunteers across the country will gather to clean our beautiful beaches and contribute to a global effort to combat marine litter. This year the initiative is proudly supported by Kia Ireland. In 2023, over 400 groups registered to host a clean-up, with 7,700 Clean Coasts volunteers removing a staggering 46 tonnes of litter all across the country. After signing up, participants will receive everything they need to conduct a successful beach clean and carry out a marine litter survey, by filling in the Marine Litter Data Cards or using the Clean Swell App. As part of the Ocean Conservancys International Coastal Cleanup, individual and group efforts in Ireland will have far-reaching effects, contributing to global data and influencing environmental policies worldwide. By participating in the Big Beach Clean and submitting the information on the types and quantities of litter collected, participants will help make Irelands voice heard on a global scale. The data collected by volunteers in previous years have informed national campaigns such as "Bin the Butt" and "Break Up With Plastic. On a global level, this data, when shared with Ocean Conservancy, has driven significant policy changes worldwide, including banning of certain plastic items like bags and straws or the implementation of laws to prohibit smoking on beaches. Bronagh Moore, An Taisce's Clean Coasts Manager commented: We are delighted to announce that registrations for the Big Beach Clean 2024 are now open. Every piece of litter removed and reported not only contributes to cleaner beaches but can lead to impactful campaigns and healthier oceans. "Your participation in the Big Beach Clean 2024 helps amplify Ireland's voice in the global effort to protect our oceans. Its a powerful reminder of how local actions can lead to significant global impacts. Join us in making a difference! Cathal Kealey, Head of Marketing & PR @ Kia Ireland commented: As a brand we are on a journey towards Carbon Neutrality and part of that strategy looks at the use of recycled materials in our vehicle production, and particularly the use of recycled ocean waste. By 2030, 20% of our vehicle plastics will come from recycled materials. Kia Ireland are delighted to be the official sponsor of the Big Beach Clean 2024. "Our support will ensure that cleanup kits are distributed to all volunteers that sign up to registered cleanups across the country. In line with to our global clean up initiatives that are designed to combat ocean pollution, we would urge as many people as possible to register for their local beach clean this September. For more information and to register, visit www.cleancoasts.org. Liupan Mountains in China's Ningxia are attracting many tourists thanks to their pleasant climate in summer. Follow Xinhua's Mao Zhu to a national park in the mountains to feel the cool summer. McDonalds partnership with the Irish Youth Foundation has helped the Drogheda-based Foroige CABLE Youth Project to support over forty young adults to undergo training and skill-based courses across a variety of areas. The project welcomed employees from the McDonalds Drogheda restaurant to its base in Moneymore, Drogheda to see the hugely positive impact made by the restaurant chains support at a local level. The Foroige CABLE Youth Project is one of the ten community-based projects to receive funding from McDonalds through the companys wider partnership with the Irish Youth Foundation. With the support of the partnership since 2023, forty-two young adults have undergone various courses such as Safe Pass, Manual Handling and Forklift driving to barista training and lash application courses. Through its wider partnership with the Irish Youth Foundation, McDonalds has already supported almost 5,000 young people directly across the Republic of Ireland. In April 2024, McDonalds launched its nationwide Makin It initiative a programme that provides young people with genuine opportunity in the areas in which they live. Before its official April launch, McDonalds piloted the programme for 18 months in Ireland in partnership with the Irish Youth Foundation and 10 local youth projects. To date, 4,898 young people aged 15-24 have been supported directly, with 42 youth workers also supported in their work with young people nationally and 50 volunteer mentors engaged in programmes across Ireland. McDonalds Drogheda Franchisee Elaine Sterio commented: McDonalds is proud of its partnership with the Irish Youth Foundation and helping these youth organisations across the country support young adults to unlock their potential. Read Next: McDonalds Drogheda Crew members pictured at the Foroige CABLE Youth Project in Drogheda "At McDonalds, we are passionate about providing training and development opportunities to our people to grow in their careers. To see an extension of this in the local community here in Drogheda and learning first-hand the incredible work the Foroige CABLE Youth Project provides to young people is inspiring to see. Youth Worker Eainne Donohoe, from the Foroige CABLE Youth Project commented: The courses our young participants have been able to undertake really helps to invigorate both their self-esteem and confidence. We are hugely appreciative of the support the McDonalds partnership has given to our participants to help them gain both a practical and employable skillset. When most schools and colleges are closing for the summer the doors of the LMETB Adult Learning Service in Dundalk stayed open for July to provide an Intensive English Summer Programme. This is the third year of the programme and over a hundred learners came to five different level classes for a unique intensive opportunity to improve their level of English. Trips are now integral part of the summer programme. All groups went on trips to visit places of interest, at the same time getting to practice their new skills out of the classroom environment. Some of the learners visited Malahide Castle in Dublin and others went to an Intercultural Day in Causey Farm in Co. Meath. All groups were also brought to the local library in Dundalk to connect them into this important local facility and enable additional language development for them and their families. These trips provided the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the learners' new environment and allow them to practice their English in real situations. A welcome addition to the programme this year was the delivery of the Reduce your Use sustainable energy programme to give people tips on conserving energy and saving money in the process. Kinga Byrne the ALO in the LMETB Adult Learning Service in Dundalk said: We are delighted to offer this unique opportunity to as many as a hundred learners who have availed of the programme this summer. Each year we endeavour to enhance it by adding new courses. This year saw the launch of a new class to support learners who have secured full time places in OFiaich Institute of FET. Twelve students attended this class, and we would like to wish them luck in September when they start their full-time courses. The LMETB Adult Learning Service summer courses would not be possible without the incredible work of three tutors Brian, Niamh and Regina who have worked an extra month to provide so many learners with this opportunity, a spokesperson said. The great rate of attendance of the learners at the classes shows the value they place on this course. Most of these students will return to study in the LMETB Adult Learning Service Dundalk in part-time classes in September and their progress will be greatly enhanced by their commitment to the Intensive Summer Programme. 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. The Government has approved proposals to give judges the discretion to recommend minimum jail terms for those sentenced to life imprisonment. Treason and murder are subject to mandatory life sentences in Ireland. Life imprisonment may also be imposed for a range of other serious offences, including rape, attempted murder and assault causing serious harm. The draft laws propose that when sentences are being handed down, judges will make a recommendation on what minimum term should be served in prison before parole is granted. The Parole Board will be required to take that recommendation into account in making their decisions. It will be a non-binding recommendation, and the Parole Board will continue to be responsible for deciding when a person will be released. A prisoner will not be automatically released after the judicially recommended minimum has been served. Justice Minister Helen McEntee published the general scheme of the draft laws, called the Life Sentences Bill 2024 on Wednesday. It will now be referred to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice for pre-legislative scrutiny. The Department of Justice is to engage with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel to progress the drafting of the Bill. Ms McEntee said this Bill will provide for sentencing courts to reflect the gravity of the most heinous offences. Judges will be able to recommend minimum terms of 25, 30 years or even longer where that is warranted, she said. I am determined that the judiciary has access to a range of sentencing options to ensure that the punishment people receive matches the crime they have committed. People who commit the most serious crimes should be dealt with in a way that reflects their culpability and the harm they have caused. Last year, the maximum penalty for assault causing harm, one of the most commonly prosecuted violent offences, was increased from five years to 10 years. The maximum sentences for assaulting gardai and frontline workers were also increased from seven to 12 years. New standalone offences of non-fatal strangulation and stalking were also introduced by Minister McEntee. Taoiseach Simon Harris said the Bill marked an important step forward in strengthening laws in order to deal with serious crimes. It will bring about a much-needed reform in our criminal justice system and reflects our commitment to rule of law and minimum terms for those who commit the most heinous crimes, he said. This legislation will provide for the long-awaited reform of life-sentencing practice in Ireland. It will allow judges when imposing sentence to fully reflect all of the circumstances of the offence, the culpability of the offender and the harm caused. After 27 years of their public park being rendered unusable because of sewage issues, the people of Shannonvale have renamed it Uisce Eireann Park. A local West Cork representative has also urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to prosecute the water company for the environmental issues. An EPA spokesperson told The Echo that in February 2024, they visited the Shannonvale wastewater treatment plant and found ponding of effluent in the public park arising from a holding tank, and an unpleasant odour. The site-visit report requires Uisce Eireann to: Secure the park and cease spillage effluent immediately, improve effluent monitoring, improve effluent treatment, provide an upgrade/remediation plan and to confirm any risks to groundwater/drinking water abstraction. Our investigations are ongoing and we are liaising with Uisce Eireann to make sure that the corrective actions in this report are implemented, the spokesperson said. Alan Dromey, chair of the Clonakilty clean-water committee, told The Echo: 12 months ago, we set up Clean Water Clonakilty. Our intent was to resolve the sewage issue and reopen Shannonvale Park. Mr Dromey explained that there have been failed projects to address the issue. These included one from 2014-2016 that Shannonvale was meant to be part of, but was removed. He said that Local Government Minister Darragh OBrien had visited the site in 2022 and said that funding would be made available. The committee met with Uisce Eireann in April and were told there is a capital plan in 2025 for which they are under consideration We wanted assurances, Mr Dromey said, explaining: They dont see it as an environmental issue. From their perspective its just a sewage-tank issue for nine houses, but for us its so much more. The entire park is shut down, the access to the river has been taken from us, and we dont have anywhere else in Shannonvale like this, so we took the decision to rename it on Google Maps out of heightened frustrations. Evie Nevin, Labour local area rep, has called on Cork County Council and the EPA to prosecute Irish Water. She invited the EPA to Shannonvale this year, leading to a report and instructions. This report has led to some engagement but it is simply not moving fast enough, said Ms Nevin. She pointed to similar cases where the EPA has prosecuted Irish Water for failing to address sewage-related problems. 'LONG-TERM SOLUTION' SOUGHT Uisce Eireann told The Echo that it is progressing a strategic assessment to identify the best long-term solution for Shannonvale, which will continue during 2024. Following competition, the project will be brought forward to the stage-2 preliminary business case. We have confirmed to residents that with the stage-1 assessment is under way, Shannonvale Park will be included for consideration in the development of the next Capital Investment Plan 2025-2029 having regard to approved funding and prioritisation. The next capital-investment plan is subject to CRU approval and there is no commitment to progressing projects that are not currently at construction stage. Once the stage-2 assessment has been complete, further updates on the budget and timelines for delivery will be available. Cork TDs have tabled 3,358 parliamentary questions so far this year 2024, with the most common topics including school places, special education, health and mental health services. A parliamentary question is a question raised by a member of the Oireachtas for answer by the Taoiseach, Tanaiste, or a minister. Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns asked the most questions at 446 119 of these related to healthcare while children, education, and agriculture were the other most common topics. Fine Gaels Colm Burke, TD for Cork North Central, had the next highest number at 429 over half of which related to healthcare which were asked prior to his appointment as Junior Minister at the Department of Health. Sinn Feins Thomas Gould, also a Cork North Central TD, had the third highest number of questions with 397, with healthcare, housing and transport the main topics. There were 1,285 questions asked by Cork North Central TDs, with 342 by Fianna Fails Padraig OSullivan and 117 by People Before Profit-Solidaritys Mick Barry. Special education, school building projects, health, mental health and disability services were the most popular topics here. Just 248 questions were asked in Cork South Central, with 235 asked by Sinn Feins Donnchadh O Laoghaire. His ward colleagues asked the least questions of any Cork TDs Micheal Martin asked zero, Simon Coveney asked two and Michael McGrath, 11. COMMON QUESTIONS The most common question topics were international protection, departmental budgets, social welfare, mental health services and hospital waiting lists. In Cork East, there were 726 questions asked 285 from Labours Sean Sherlock, 256 from Fine Gaels David Stanton, 122 from Fianna Fails James OConnor, and 63 from Sinn Feins Pat Buckley. Flood relief schemes and risk management was the most popular topic followed by school accommodation/transport, special education, and road projects. In Cork South West, there were 553 questions asked 446 from Ms Cairns, 74 from Fianna Fails Christopher OSullivan, and 33 from Independent Irelands Michael Collins. Health, mental health, and disability services and special education were amonst the most popular topics. Some 546 questions were asked in Cork North West 314 by Aindrias Moynihan and 93 by Michael Moynihan of Fianna Fail, plus 139 by Fine Gaels Michael Creed. Agriculture accounted for the most questions, followed by social welfare, the defence forces and housing schemes. By Jonathan McCambridge and Rebecca Black, PA Northern Irelands First Minister has called for the prioritising of protecting lives and property and facing down racism. Michelle ONeill was speaking after scenes of violence and disorder followed an anti-immigration protest in Belfast on Saturday. Four men appeared in court on Monday to face charges linked to the violence. A vehicle is set alight in Belfast following an anti-Islamic protest outside Belfast City Hall. Photo: David Young/PA. Several businesses were attacked during the violence, which erupted in the city after the protests on Saturday. Business owners have said the Islamic community was deliberately targeted. The Alliance Party has called for the recall of the Stormont Assembly to discuss the violent scenes. The bid has been backed by the SDLP who have urged MLAs to come together and reject the violent scenes on the streets of Belfast at the weekend. Ms ONeill said she has spoken to Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Chief Constable Jon Boutcher. There is no place in this society for racism or the attacks on our minority communities which took place at the weekend, she said. Today, I spoke to PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher and we agreed that the shared priority is to protect lives and property and face down racism, violence and intimidation. The First Minister and I have spoken with the Chief Constable today. We all stand united in tackling intimidation, disorder and violence and firmly against hate and racism. The vast, vast majority of people throughout NI do likewise. There is no place for thuggery in NI. pic.twitter.com/YdjICqO0pL Emma Little-Pengelly BL (@little_pengelly) August 5, 2024 Co-operation between the PSNI and An Garda Siochana is essential so that those responsible for causing and orchestrating the racist violence on Saturday will face the full force of the law. As a Government and as a society we must all work together to deliver a shared, peaceful and inclusive society. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly added: We all stand united in tackling intimidation, disorder and violence and firmly against hate and racism. The vast, vast majority of people throughout NI do likewise. There is no place for thuggery in NI. Stormonts Justice Minister, Naomi Long, said the scenes have been hugely damaging, describing some people as being scared to leave their homes today because of the colour of their skin. Police mounted a significant security operation during a lengthy confrontation between anti-Islamic protesters and those taking part in an anti-racist rally at Belfast City Hall during which fireworks and other missiles were thrown. A number of businesses were damaged during violence in Belfast. Photo: Jonathan McCambridge/PA. The force said it then prevented an attempt by protesters to march to Belfast Islamic Centre, but that sporadic violence broke out in other parts of the city. Three police officers were injured in the disorder and the PSNI has said those involved will be dealt with using the full force of the law. Speaking to the media on Monday, Ms Long said she was absolutely distraught about what happened. These scenes have been broadcast around the globe of the rioting right across the UK and in our main city, she said. Its hugely damaging to our reputation but its also incredibly damaging to our community. We have people in Belfast today who are afraid to go outside of their homes because of the colour of their skin, or because of their religion or because of their perceived background, because theyre afraid that they will be attacked on the streets. Justice Minister Naomi Long hit out at disinformation being spread online. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA. This kind of xenophobia and racism and bigotry isnt acceptable. It is intolerable, and from my perspective when it tips over into violence it is a very serious issue, both for the department of justice and for the police service. Ms Long urged against anyone considering travelling to Northern Ireland to riot. Because if you do, you will be held accountable in front of the courts. You will be pursued. There isnt a free pass to come to Northern Ireland and engage in this kind of behaviour, she said. We need as a community in Northern Ireland to stand against this. We need the political leadership. We need leadership from the PSNI. We need leadership from within our community to say that they do not want this visited on the streets of Belfast. We have experienced violence over the years. We know the damage it can do. We above all should understand the vulnerability of people who are being subjected to this kind of intimidation and its up to all of us to play our part in saying this is not welcome in Northern Ireland. If you engage in it, whether you are from Northern Ireland or from outside Northern Ireland, you will be held accountable. Earlier, Ms Long said if there are any lessons to be learned from the policing operation at the weekend, she has no doubt the PSNI will learn them. She told the BBCs Good Morning Ulster programme: We are already seeing now on social media people making preparations for another round of this this week. This cannot continue, we cannot have this kind of Islamophobia, xenophobia and hatred on our streets. People have a right to an opinion when it comes to immigration, but it needs to be an informed opinion. What we are seeing instead is radicalisation of people online through disinformation and outright lies. It is incredibly dangerous. If there are lessons to be learned around the policing operation I have no doubt whatsoever they will be learned. Northern Ireland Policing Board chairman Mukesh Sharma described the violence as deeply depressing and disturbing Photo: Liam McBurney/PA. Policing Board chairman Mukesh Sharma described the violence in Belfast as deeply depressing and disturbing. As a board, we join in the condemnation of all those who engaged in this disorder, and we welcome police commitments to bring all those responsible to justice, he said. There is no place for hate in our community. We all have a real job of work to do to provide reassurance to the community that the violent actions of a few are not representative of our society. I welcome the increased police engagement at this time with affected and concerned communities, and also trust that all those officers injured in the course of the disorder make a speedy recovery. Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts added: These attacks are despicable and should be condemned. Racism has no place in our community and those behind these attacks should be brought to justice. Our thoughts are with the owners and staff of these businesses going through such a traumatic experience. We hope that the police will learn lessons from last weekend and ensure that these disgraceful racially motivated attacks on business owners are prevented in future. By Rebecca Black and Jonathan McCambridge, PA Police came under sustained attack and the victim of a suspected hate crime is in a serious condition in hospital after violence in Belfast on Monday night. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said officers came under sustained attack, and at one stage petrol was poured over a police Land Rover and set alight. Police deployed two attenuating energy projectiles (AEPs), with one rioter struck on the hand. A 15-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour. The latest violence began late on Monday in the same area where two businesses were attacked on Saturday following an anti-immigration protest. Police said attempts were made to set fire to a supermarket which had been targeted on Saturday night, but officers were able to douse the small blaze before it developed. Police provide update on Belfast disorder. Read more here: https://t.co/CPRv1ledBN pic.twitter.com/jZVVLrFubC Police Service NI (@PoliceServiceNI) August 6, 2024 A smaller protest had taken place on Monday evening in Belfast city centre. In a statement on Tuesday morning, the PSNI said its officers came under sustained attack over a number of hours with multiple petrol bombs, heavy masonry and bricks thrown in their direction. Petrol was also poured over a police Land Rover and set alight. Thankfully, the occupants of the vehicle were not physically harmed and remained on duty, the force said. A member of the public, a man aged in his 30s, was taken to hospital after he was seriously assaulted in the Donegall Road and Oban Street area. Witnesses reported seeing his attackers stamp on his head as members of the public attempted to shield him from further attack. His condition is described as serious and we are treating his attack as a hate crime. Police said that, at around 5pm on Monday, there was a protest and a counter-protest involving approximately 40 people in the area of Ormeau Avenue. Officers attended to ensure an appropriate and proportionate policing response, they said. A report was then made of criminal damage to a family home in the Pandora Street area with windows broken. A small group gathered at the junction of University Road/Bradbury Place before moving to Donegall Road. However, larger crowds gathered, with some masked rioters mounting attacks on officers. PSNI Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said the disorder has no place in Belfast or anywhere else (Liam McBurney/PA) PSNI Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said the disorder, violence and destruction has no place in Belfast or anywhere else across the streets of Northern Ireland. We are engaging with groups that have been affected by this disorder and we are gathering evidence, CCTV and other footage to progress criminal investigations, she said. We are working at pace to identify offenders and make arrests. We are determined to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. Anyone who has information or who can help identify those responsible is asked to contact us on 101. DUP minister Gordon Lyons said there is no justification whatsoever for this violence, adding that he condemns it in the strongest possible terms. Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said there is no justification whatsoever for this violence (Liam McBurney/PA) I want to send my thoughts to those who have been most affected. Those affected personally and those whose businesses have been affected as well, he told the BBCs Good Morning Ulster programme. There is never any justification for this type of violent behaviour. There is no justification for attack on the police and it needs to stop and it needs to stop straight away, and Im glad that we do have united political leadership right across all parties on this in Northern Ireland. Asked about the motivation behind the original anti-immigration protest on Saturday, Mr Lyons said legitimate concerns should be heard but that there is no justification for violence. Certainly there are additional pressures on some public services in parts of Northern Ireland. Im aware there has been additional pressure put on the provision of housing. Overall, across Northern Ireland that might be quite low around about 5% of homeless applications are as a result of those who have no accommodation in Northern Ireland but in some parts of Belfast, in particular, that number is much higher and local communities are feeling the impact of that, he said. Of course, this is an issue which is being felt right across the UK and elsewhere. Let me be clear, that doesnt mean there is any justification for violence. If you have concerns, if you want to express those concerns, there are legitimate, peaceful and democratic ways in which you can do that. What I dont think we should do is downplay how some people are feeling about this issue. When we try to dismiss the legitimate concerns of people, it adds to the frustration that many people feel. A cafe in Donegall Road in south Belfast which was attacked at the weekend (Jonathan McCambridge/PA) Earlier on Monday, a meeting of Belfast City Council passed a motion to provide financial support to businesses damaged during Saturdays disorder. The Northern Ireland Assembly will be recalled later this week to discuss violent scenes after an anti-immigration protest in Belfast. Four men linked to disorder on Saturday appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court on Monday. The court heard that police believe more violence linked to planned anti-immigration protests is likely in Belfast in the coming days. A judge described scenes of disorder in the city at the weekend as absolutely disgraceful as he refused bail to the four men. Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions. Some companies plant palm oil trees for biofuels in tropical areas like this region in Indonesia adjacent to the Padang Sugihan Wildlife Reserve, pictured on Dec. 13, 2018. Faizal Abdul Aziz / CIFOR A new study has found that large energy companies in Europe hide 47 percent of the damage they cause to biodiversity through their activities. The researchers analyzed nearly 50 events related to 30 major European energy companies from deforestation and habitat destruction to the electrocution of birds and discovered that 22 of them were not even mentioned in the firms sustainability reports, a press release from University of the Basque Country said. European directives oblige large companies to publish documents relating to the environment and biodiversity, but the information that has to be included in them is not fully specified. Each company decides which aspect to cover. So they act freely and soften their image, said lead author of the study Goizeder Blanco-Zaitegi, a Ph.D. student with the faculty of economics and business at the university. The researchers found that energy companies disclosed just 23 percent of events threatening biodiversity in a clear manner. Some events were communicated in a vague manner. Across 14 cases, they revealed that in 30 percent of adverse impacts analyzed companies used strategies to minimize their actions and neutralize their responsibilities. Blanco said the most common technique companies used was to emphasize their positive efforts and good aspects. For example, palm oil trees are planted by some companies in tropical areas to produce biofuels, and this destroys the local ecosystems. However, in their sustainability reports they divert attention towards softening the issue, Blanco said in the press release. They emphasize that they have planted numerous trees in other areas. And that does not make up for the deforestation caused by the company as a result of palm oil trees, among other things, because the plantations are located far from the damaged sites. Energy companies also made the argument that it wasnt clear who was responsible for the destruction or blamed other actors, such as the suppliers. The research team found that transparency varied by type of event, with energy companies explaining events affecting Indigenous communities and the electrocuting of birds more accurately. When birds are killed by power lines, there are fines. Because it isnt hard to account for them, companies also tend to report their deaths more accurately. However, Blanco said this doesnt apply to more complex issues, such as when ecosystems are transformed or destroyed. [F]or example, if a wind farm has been built on the migratory corridor of a species, they do not communicate it clearly. As the effects are deeper and more difficult to measure, they tend to conceal these events. The study, Impression management of biodiversity reporting in the energy and utilities sectors: An assessment of transparency in the disclosure of negative events, was published in the Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Finance. [I]t is more difficult to be non-transparent when humans are involved. People, unlike nature, speak, protest and engage in confrontation. Such events have to be communicated, Blanco said. Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions. New research has revealed that as the lake bed of the Great Salt Lake dries out, its becoming a greater source of greenhouse gas emissions. According to a study published in the journal One Earth, the dry parts of the Great Salt Lake in Utah contributed about 4.1 million tons of carbon emissions in 2020 alone, revealing that this lake bed and other drying lake beds could be contributing much more greenhouse gas emissions than expected. The study revealed that the emissions from the Great Salt Lake led to around a 7% increase in anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions for the state of Utah in 2020. Human-caused desiccation of Great Salt Lake is exposing huge areas of lake bed and releasing massive quantities of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, Soren Brothers, lead researcher of the study and the Allan and Helaine Shiff Curator of Climate Change at the Royal Ontario Museum, said in a statement. The significance of lake desiccation as a driver of climate change needs to be addressed in greater detail and considered in climate change mitigation and watershed planning. Historic full lake levels and bays (1985; Landsat) and recent low levels (2022, NASA Earth Observatory). One Earth The researchers measured emissions of carbon dioxide and methane in the dry areas of the lake from April to November, then adjusted the measurements after comparing the totals to the natural aquatic emissions. This allowed the team to determine how much of the emissions from the drying lake bed could be contributed to human activity. Additionally, the results showed a strong link between increasing emissions from the lake bed and higher temperatures. According to the Royal Ontario Museum, water levels of the Great Salt Lake varies from year to year, but levels have been declining in recent years, even reaching a record low in 2022. As The Guardian reported, the lake has lost about 73% of its water, in part driven by drought and global warming. Human activity, including drawing water for agricultural and residential use, have also contributed to declining water levels in the Great Salt Lake. The Great Salt Lake spans about 1,700 square miles and is the largest saltwater lake in the western hemisphere. As its water levels decline and concerns rise over emissions from the dry lake bed, there are other worries over a drying saline lake, too. In 2022, Utah officials warned about toxic air pollution that could be emitted from the lake bed as it dried out. I think the impacts on air quality, the impacts on migratory birds and other wildlife are maybe more pressing, locally, Brothers told The Guardian. But especially at a time when we are all trying to find ways to reduce our carbon footprint, as Salt Lake City is working to reduce emissions, this desiccating lake is adding some of that back. The study authors noted that greenhouse gas emissions from dry, exposed lake beds should be considered when deciding ways to improve water management and reduce anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. : ... Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions. Buildings on the coast face flooding from the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby in Cedar Key, Florida on Aug. 5, 2024. Joe Raedle / Getty Images Tropical Storm Debby gained strength over the weekend to become a Category 1 hurricane, making landfall on Floridas Gulf Coast early Monday morning with maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour, reported The Associated Press. The National Hurricane Center issued a storm surge warning for the coasts of Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. More than 283,000 Florida customers were without power, according to Poweroutage.us. This is going to be an event that is going to be probably here for the next five to seven days, maybe as long as 10 days, depending on how much rainfall we get, said Kevin Guthrie, executive director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, as Reuters reported. Guthrie said the storm had already dumped as much as a foot of rain in some areas of southwest Florida. The hurricane center forecast catastrophic flooding, saying Debby would move back offshore by Tuesday night, then gain strength before coming inland for a second time to drench Georgia and the Carolinas. Debby made landfall on the Big Bend coast near Steinhatchee, one of the states least populated areas, reported The Associated Press. Less than a year earlier, Hurricane Idalia made landfall about 20 miles away, a Category 4 storm with winds of up to 125 mph that brought devastation to the region. Two in less than a year is pretty bad, said Chris Williams, a marina operator who lost power when Debby came ashore around 5:30 Monday morning, as The Associated Press reported. You do everything you can possibly do to prepare. And when youve done that, clean up and put it back together and move forward. Forecasters predicted a storm surge of six to 10 feet in areas near Big Bend, which hurricane specialist John Cangialosi said was a very vulnerable spot. The counties of Manatee and Sarasota had already seen 10 to 12 inches of rain. The National Weather Service in Georgia was predicting major river flooding, with water levels potentially more than doubling later this week. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis warned residents not to try to drive through floodwaters. We dont want to see traffic fatalities adding up. Dont tempt fate, dont try to go through these flooded streets, DeSantis said, as reported by The Associated Press. The driver of an 18-wheeler was killed Monday morning when his truck crashed into the Tampa Bypass Canal. The National Hurricane Center said Debby was moving toward the north-northwest with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph. A gradual decrease in forward speed with a turn toward the east is expected later today and Tuesday. On the forecast track, the center will move across southeastern Georgia tonight and Tuesday, and move offshore of the South Carolina coast by late Tuesday and Wednesday, the hurricane center said. The combination of storm surge and tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline. The center said the storm was predicted to bring from six to 18 inches of rainfall through Wednesday morning across northern Florida to central and northeast North Carolina. This rainfall will likely result in areas of considerable flash and urban flooding, with significant river flooding expected, the hurricane center said. Stereographer 5 Aug 2024 Stereographer is a small application I wrote to turn MPO files into a composite stereo image suitable for printing and viewing in an old-time stereoscope. I talk about stereo photography, my incentive for writing Stereographer and the process including where AI helped and didnt help me. Experiments in Stereo From time to time I enjoy dabbling in stereo photography. My interest in stereo images probably goes back to the View-master and its reels (discs) with seven stereoscopic image pairs each (probably the case for a lot of people). Peering into a View-master was like glimpsing a hidden, magical world. Even to this day it is still exciting when I first view in 3D a stereo photo I took. Something I have come to notice about stereo images the good ones have me looking around within the image the way that I have heard that a good painting does. For me at least that is something unique about stereo photographs. My earliest attempts at stereo photography date back to my film camera days. Having come across a few front-surface mirrors (that I had either salvaged from somewhere or bought surplus) I built a cumbersome thing that you could mount to the camera it was something like a Kleenex box sized thing (made from foam-core, I believe) that had the mirrors arranged somewhat like the prisms in a pair of binoculars. Imagine holding the camera looking north a pair of mirrors were joined at right angles in the center of the box (nearest the lens of the camera) that split the view from the camera into a left half looking due west and a right half looking directly east. A second pair of left and right outboard mirrors were angled so as to restore a north-looking view for both halves through the camera viewfinder. With the outboard mirrors angled carefully, the photographer sees the same image repeated in the left and right half of the field of view (with a somewhat blurry vertical edge delineating the center). Of course the two halves though are each from just a slightly different perspective just like your eyes see the world. The images I got back from this setup were not of the highest quality but it did kind of work. Years later I found out there was a cheap lens attachment that worked the same way that my clunky DIY setup worked. Before the internet though, even finding out that some esoteric thing existed was a challenge. A decade or so passes and consumer digital cameras replace film cameras. I would remember my early stereo photo experiments and try to repeat them with the new hardware. My clunky mirror contraption was long gone but with easy access to plenty of digital cameras (I was working in the ColorSync team at Apple at this time) I hoped instead to mount a pair of cameras side by side to shoot stereo photos. One hurdle is firing both cameras at the same time. Instead though I got lazy I found I could create stereo photos by taking two photos on the same camera you just slide the camera horizontally a few inches between shots. You have the obvious problem that if your subject moves between shots you blow the effect. But for just playing around I accepted this limitation. I was surprised at how often it worked really well. Add a tripod, some sort of sliding jig for the camera and you can get very good and repeatable stereo photos (try it with your phone). I have had human subjects stand perfectly still between two photos and have been able to pull off a good stereo shot. I took a nice stereo pair of Delicate Arch in Utah using the move-a-bit-horizontally-between-shots method. While a few tourists were in both photos and moved between the shots, I was able to fix it in post. I cloned the tourists from one image to the other in a paint program as though they had been static. Compositing There are a number of things you can do with your left and right image pair. A fun thing to create is a red/cyan anaglyph. You know, where you view the image by wearing a pair of red/cyan glasses? You can pull the image pair into a paint document for this giving them each their own layer. Anaglyphs works best if the source images are grayscale so I would convert them to B&W first. After that use a tool like Levels to make the left image cyan (slam the Green and Blue channels in Levels) and the right image red (slam only the Red channel). Set the top layer to Multiply compositing mode, some aligning, cropping ... youre done. Instead though, I like the fidelity and clarity you can only get from the classic stereoscopic images the kind that you would view on an old-fashioned stereoscope. Finding a stereoscopic viewer is not impossible but is something of an obstacle. Fortunately though, creating the cards from your stereo pair is perhaps even easier than the anaglyph. (I like the fidelity and clarity of the old View-master reels as well but creating them is a challenge I have not yet embarked upon.) Surprising to me, the original stereoscopic cards were printed to a kind of standard: exactly 7" across and 3" tall. The left and right images themselves are exactly 3" square (well, there is the small arch above each image cropping them somewhat) and they abut each other in the center of the card. Theres a " margin on the left and right, a " margin along the bottom. You can create a kind of template document in a paint program to match this. Choose at least 300 DPI and fill the document with whatever texture or color you prefer for the card itself. Scale your images down to 3 by 3 inches and place them to the left and right of center. As you see in the older cards, a decorative arch across the top of each image was popular. Adding a description lets the viewer know something about the photo. Print the final image with a photo-quality inkjet and add a card stock backing to give it some stiffness. Cut to size, round the corners if you can. If this sounds a little more complicated than I previously let on, well that is why I wrote the Stereographer application: to make the steps just up to printing and mounting much easier. Ill talk about this in a bit. MPO files Back in 2010, FUJIFILM released the Finepix REAL3D W3 stereo digital camera. It wasnt terribly expensive but gave you two CCDs (and two lenses, etc.) and a cute lenticular screen on the back that showed you an actual 3D preview of the photo you just took (or were about to take). When I finally learned of it I bought one. The FUJIFILM Finepix REAL3D W3 stereo digital camera. The camera works best as a point-and-shoot and in this capacity it is not a bad camera. It has a manual mode but it is so difficult to use that it is more or less worthless in that regard (no physical controls to change shutter speed, f-stop). There are not a lot of stereo digital options out there. Lumix made a similar camera but it is harder to find. There are people that have paired digital cameras and have figured out ways to sync the triggers. A Raspberry Pi based stereo camera is being experimented with. And there are always the lens attachments for standard cameras that give you a split pair of images. The images the FUJIFILM W3 (and LUMIX DMC-3D1) create are MPO (Multiple Picture Object) files. Its kind of an unusual image file format that I understand is little more than a wrapper for multiple JPEGs. (So youre definitely not going to be shooting RAW with this thing.) Sadly Apples ecosystem does not work well with MPO files. When opened with the Preview application I might see a pair of images but they appear identical to each other not the left + right pair that I am expecting. Importing the images into the Photos app and you get just a single image. At the API level, creating an NSImage from an MPO file, like Photos, also only returns a single image representation. I found that exiftool can extract the left and the right image as JPEGs. Users on the internet have shared command-line incantations for this, or batch scripts to automate the same. Early on I relied on this workflow extraction and then making stereoscopic image cards by hand as I described earlier. And at an API level, developers on StackOverflow have suggested hacks that involve finding the JPEG markers in the MPO data and passing appropriately bounded chunks of data to NSImage to recover each image within the MPO file. That does work and I use it in Stereographer. I found an app for MacOS called XstereO Player that simplified my workflow considerably. It could open the MPO files directly and had various modes of displaying the image pairs including a Stereo Card mode. Ultimately I would find it had one or two shortcomings though and as the developer does not appear to be maintaining it I decided recently to write my own app and implement a few of the features that I wanted. XstereO Player, despite lacking a few of my esoteric feature requests, is nonetheless a pretty solid app that has support for various flavors of anaglyphs, etc. For my own, much simpler app, Stereographer, I focused only on stereoscopic cards. XstereO Player is still available on the App Store and I can attest that it still works on MacOS Sonoma. And A.I. Helped A few years before retirement I spent a year os so converting a van to an RV that the wife and I could travel the U.S. in. The summer of 2024 turned out to be the year I made the long drive from Omaha, Nebraska to Homer, Alaska to visit my dad. It turned out to be a 28 day drive and about a 10,000 miles round trip when all was said and done. For some reason (and back on the subject at hand) I decided to bring the stereo camera along and use it exclusively to photograph the road trip. When I returned home I found that I had shot over 400 stereo photos. That became then the incentive I needed to create the app, Stereographer, and implement those features that I had found lacking in other software I had tried. I have been AI curious and had experimented months back with Claude.ai. In that exrercise, he had helped me spin up a small map-based web page where I had had no experience doing this beforehand. It had gone surprisingly well and so I followed up by trying out AI for help with a few other Javascript-heavy, web experiments that I had been wanting to try. Those experiments with AI-assisted development were a little more frustrating. I decided again though to lean on AI for this new project as I wanted to do it using SwiftUI and I had not yet dabbled in that. (SwiftUI was beginning to ramp up just as I was retiring from Apple for better or worse I managed to put off jumping into it then.) In general, I find AI to have been helpful for me when I am heading into an area where I have no (or little) prior experience. In my mind this 3D, SwiftUI app would be a simple document-based one where each document would get a window showing the composite left + right image. An image resource would provide a mask framing the two images (and giving them the little traditional arch across the top). Controls I imagined would include a Pan, Separation and Straighten sliders and a text field to add a description. Finally a button would export the composite image so that it could be printed out. How I imagined a document window would look. With the above description I was able to come up with a reasonable prompt to start the development with AI. It began something like, I want to create a document-based, SwiftUI app for MacOS where each document window consists of an image view above and a row of sliders beneath. As pieces of the app began to come together and compile, I could focus on more specific aspects of the code with prompts like, I want the Content to consist of a vertical stack containing the image view, sliders plus text field, and then a button. Later, How do I get a tick mark on the slider? Later still, I want the text field to have a minimum width of 200 points. In this way it slowly came together. ChatGPT wasnt perfect. And from time to time we would enter into a kind of circular firing squad where I seemed unable to get AI to give me something other than what he/she/it had incorrectly given me over and over before. More on that later. Eventually we landed on this. Pan and Separation With the photos coming off the stereo camera having an aspect ratio of 3:2 means that some amount of cropping is necessary to make each image square for the stereoscopic image. The Pan control gives the user control over where to do the cropping. As you slide the Pan control left and right a square portion (the same square portion) from the left and right images are composited to the final stereoscopic image in the content view. How far the user can pan is simple math essentially the height of the image subtracted from the width. Taking this difference gives us a scalar. The range of the slider is -1 to +1 (with the slider representing zero when in the middle of its range). So multiplying the value of the slider by one-half of our scalar tells us how much to pan (translate) the source left and right images. Something missing from the XstereO app was a means to pan the left and right images slightly toward or away from one another. I call this separation in the UI. It is essentially a bias added to the pan control. Moving the separation slider one way might add a small amount of extra pan to the left image but will subtract the same amount of pan from the right image. It therefore either pulls the images together slightly, or pushes them apart a bit. I have found that for some images coming off the camera this can be an important parameter to adjust in order to make the resulting stereo image look right. The bounds of each image act as something like a window frame within which we view the little stereo scene displayed on the card. We expect that the things within the stereo view which are clipped by the frame of the card should appear behind the card depthwise. Sometimes though the images coming off the camera dont quite resolve that way they create a kind of spatial dissonance that our brain struggles with. A flower, for example, comes into the frame from below but the separation between the left and right versions of the flower are such that it would appear nearer to us than the distance the stereographic card represents. Sometimes just pulling the images farther apart resolves this spatial confusion. The Separation control when not in the center (zero position) adds a bias to the left and right pan settings. Since we had previously carefully scaled the pan to map precisely to the pannable bounds of the source image, adding a bias will in extreme cases cause us to pan past one end or the other of the original image. To avoid this happening there is clipping of the final left and right pan values once the separation bias is applied. Straighten The photos you take with a stereo camera are necessarily in landscape mode. (If you were to hold a stereo camera at any other orientation you defeat the proper stereo effect.) Nonetheless I found a handful of the photos that I took on my road trip where I had not held the camera exactly horizontal. When I considered it though I understood that the math involved to add straighten functionality would be challenging. Without the Straighten control the transform I had to map from the left and right images to the resulting square destination was a simple scale and translate (and clipping of course). The translate (panning) I already more or less described. The scaling required was simply to go from the source image size (the height actually) to the destination size (height). (Since I had decided to target 450 DPI for the resulting stereoscopic image and the resulting image pairs are 3 inches square, the scale factor was whatever was needed to bring the image into 1350 by 1350 pixels.) Adding a rotation to the transform opened up a whole new can of worms. For starters, if youve ever played with transform matrices you know that the order of operations is important. Do I scale then translate and then rotate? Or scale last? Who knows? I have spent hours in the past on similar tasks trying seemingly endless combinations to wacky results. And you may also know that rotating the image about the center requires an extra set of translations to center the transform before you apply the rotate (and then you need to de-translate after). An added complexity comes when you consider that a naive rotation would bring in content outside the bounds of the source images. What you really want to do when the user rotates the image is shrink the bounding square by an appropriate amount to keep it within the source image bounds. By the way, when you look at the above diagrams, realize that the CORRECT way will result in the image appearing to be scaled larger. While the source rectangle is drawn above smaller than the naive rotation, remember that this is illustrating the source image the destination is still the same size and so the smaller square gets scaled more in order to fill it. Something that surprised me when you apply a rotation as described, you actually need make no additional adjustments to reign in panning. If you visualize the upright square that the new rotated one would be inscribed within, it is the exact same square we have if there were no rotation. In other words, the simple math we did earlier to limit pan to keep it within the source image rectangle remains unchanged. A.I. Falls Down So I mention the above issue rotating, scaling to allow for the inscribed square because it was one of those places where ChatGPT went round and round with me. To simplify the problem a bit for ChatGPT, I made the source image a square aspect ratio. My prompt then went like this: Im trying to render from a square source image into a square destination CGContext. If I allow a rotation to straighten the source image, how do I apply the correct transforms to the CGContext to get the largest square source image scaled and centered in the destination CGContext? The answer (code) I got back incorrectly computed the scale. In fact it did the complete opposite of what I wanted it computed a scale that would contain the entire source image in the destination. In common parlance it was trying to do a fit from the source image to the destination, but I was asking for it to give me a fill. Re-reading my prompt though, its possible I was not clear? I tried to make it more clear though in a followup prompt: While the transform you created keeps the entire rotated source image within the destination CGContext, I want the source image to completely fill the destination CGContext. And yet I got back a reply (code) that was more of the same. Me: I am not seeing the destination context being filled. If there is a rotation I expect the source image will naturally be clipped somewhat so as to fill the destination. And again ChatGPT comes back with similar and incorrect code. After we ran around a bit more I finally gave up. I had earlier asked it to compute the scale of the largest inscribed rotated square within a unit square and it gave me the correct math (one over the absolute value of sine of the angle plus the absolute value of the cosine of the angle). So I was able to substitute the trig for the bozo scaling factor ChatGPT had been giving me. Making Cards The application eventually came together of course and I began processing the 400+ photos I had taken. (On my machine at least) the composite image that is displayed in each MPO documents window is actual size. That is it is 7" 3". The image pairs too should each be precisely 3" square. I cant stare at two images 3" apart and resolve them into a single stereo image that is where the stereoscope is needed. (There is a cross-eyed viewing technique if you swap the left/right images, but that would be a strain and if someone hits you on the back your eyes can get stuck that way. Thats a joke.) I do have just the lens portion of a stereoscope that I can hold some distance from my laptop display and get the stereo effect without having to first print the image. Stereoscope lens are a little unusual. Imagine a standard convex lens, such as the kind you find as part of a magnifying glass, but cut it vertically into two halves. Now swap the two halves giving you something like a butterfly arrangement. This is how optically the stereoscope allows our eyes to relax but still see a pair of images that are farther apart than our pupils. By viewing the image in stereo live I can adjust the pan, separation and see the results in real time. In fact though you can probably adjust these settings without real-time stereo. In adjusting the pan setting sometimes there is a foreground object that is best clipped if you can view the image in stereo, but generally you can adjust the slider in 2D alone. Using half a stereoscope to view an image on the MacBook. When I am happy with the settings on an image, I type a title/description and then Export Image. Stereographer produces a 450 DPI JPEG with minimal compression. I have a Pixelmator Pro document that I created at 450 DPI that matches in size the glossy photo paper I use in my EPSON Artisan 1430 inkjet printer. I can fit three of the stereoscopic images in a document. These 3-up documents I then print on the aforementioned EPSON. To give them a stable backing, I glue a sheet of 110# card stock to the back of each printed sheet. The next step is to cut the cards to 7" 3" and the final step is to cut the corners off each card. A Holmes style stereoscope and modern stereoscopic images I created. Furthermore Sources to Stereographer are on GitHub. If you have a Mac you can try it out I have checked in a couple of MPO files in case you have none. If I were to extend Stereographer I would like to have a New Document option that brought up a window much like the current document window but where the left and right stereo images normally appear there would instead be text that reads Drop Image Here. The above feature alone though assumes that the two images are the same size, aligned correctly, etc. I am not sure how useful it would be without a lot of additional controls. I could add a separate scaling slider to give you the ability to zoom in on the image. With stereo images though zooming in also scales the separation between the images not always desirable. Others, not me, might like a Swap Left and Right Image checkbox to allow you to create a cross-eyed stereogram. An anaglyph mode would be kind of fun to have from time to time. Anyway, if people are interested I could talk about how to build a simple stereoscope, or my failure to create a lenticular stereo image, or if anyone is interested in hearing more about my experiences and experiments in stereo photography, just holler. Donald Trump's campaign is voicing their opinion on Kamala Harris' running mate choice and they're not impressed. Democratic nominee Kamala Harris announced Tim Walz as her running mate Tuesday, as sources say she believes they both are "underdogs" in the 2024 presidential race. However, she remains "confident" that together they have a winning message on reducing costs for the middle class and "protecting freedom." Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro second that call, dubbing Walz "an exceptionally strong addition to the ticket." Trump's campaign, in addition to social media, didn't seem to share the same sentiment. RELATED: Pregnant Hailey Bieber Admits She's 'Not Super Close' With Her Family After Building 'Her Own' Tribe Its no surprise that San Francisco Liberal Kamala Harris wants West Coast wannabe Tim Walz as her running-mate Walz has spent his governorship trying to reshape Minnesota in the image of the Golden State. While Walz pretends to support Americans in the Heartland, when the Karoline Leavitt (@kleavittnh) August 6, 2024 "It's no surprise that San Francisco Liberal Kamala Harris wants West Coast wannabe Tim Walz as her running-mate Walz has spent his governorship trying to reshape Minnesota in the image of the Golden State," Trump campaign press secretary Karoline Leavitt penned on X hours ago. "While Walz pretends to support Americans in the Heartland, when the cameras are off, he believes that rural America is 'mostly cows and rocks'. From proposing his own carbon-free agenda, to suggesting stricter emission standards for gas-powered cars, and embracing policies to allow convicted felons to vote, Walz is obsessed with spreading California's dangerously liberal agenda far and wide. If Walz won't tell voters the truth, we will: just like Kamala Harris, Tim Walz is a dangerously liberal extremist, and the Harris-Walz California dream is every American's nightmare," she concluded. RELATED: Billy Mays Honored With OxiClean At His Gravestone 15 Years After His Death This was Minnesota under Gov Tim Walz: pic.twitter.com/6CCbhyOPca Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) August 6, 2024 I'm thrilled to see Tim Walz join the Democratic ticket. From providing free meals for schoolkids to implementing paid family leave in Minnesota, he's about doing good in all the ways you can. He'll be an incredible partner to our first woman president. Let's go win this. pic.twitter.com/gH32Xq1Nco Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) August 6, 2024 A quick X search seems to reveal the public's mixed feelings on Walz. One tweeter posted, "This was Minnesota under Gov. Tim Walz," with images of burning streets during the height of the Black Lives Matter movement. Another shared: "I'm thrilled to see Tim Walz join the Democratic ticket" with images of happy children. Walz, 60, is an American politician, former U.S. Army non-commissioned officer, and retired educator born in West Point, Nebraska. The father of two served as the 41st governor of Minnesota since 2019. The Biden administration plans to propose a rule that would bar Chinese software in vehicles in the US with so-called Level 3 automation and above. Farmer-led badger vaccination could play a vital role in the government and industry's plans to eradicate bovine TB, according to researchers. A paper published today (6 August) reports how over the course of the 4-year pilot vaccination programme, the percentage of badgers testing positive for bTB fell from 16% to 0%. Meanwhile, the farmers involved in the study reported increased enthusiasm for badger vaccination as a control tool. Hundreds of thousands of cattle and badgers have been slaughtered for bTB control in recent years. With larger-scale assessments needed to measure how badger vaccination impacts disease rates in cattle, researchers are calling on the government to support further evaluations of community-led badger vaccination. Professor Rosie Woodroffe, project lead at Zoological Society of London (ZSL), said: Our hope is that this work will help to move bTB control into a place where farmers and wildlife groups can work together towards this shared goal. Initiated and part-funded by Cornish farmers, the team vaccinated badgers across 12 farms in a 11km2 area. They worked with Imperial College London to simultaneously gather data to address the farmers questions around the practicality and effectiveness of vaccination. More badgers were vaccinated per km2 than were caught by nearby culls, with separate counts from camera traps suggesting that 74% of local badgers received the vaccine. Blood sampling showed that the proportion of badgers with bTB fell even though overall badger numbers remained high. Interviews with the participating farmers indicated their keenness to continue vaccination beyond the original 4 years. Keith Truscott, founder of the Mid Cornwall Badger Vaccination Farmers Group and senior author on the report, said there needed to be a solution to tackle bovine TB. He said: "As a cattle farmer, Im living with the constant worry that one of our cows might test positive for the disease, so doing nothing is not an option. "I sleep better at night knowing that there are people out there working to eradicate the disease through vaccination. Im proud to be part of this project, and even more so to have instigated it. While most bTB incidents in cattle are caused by transmission between herds, transmission from wild badgers plays a role in the persistence of the disease. Badger culls have formed part of the governments policy for many years, although the new Labour government has committed to ending the cull. Previously, plans to expand badger vaccination have been met with scepticism from farming leaders, concerned that vaccination might reach too few badgers, at too high a cost, making it ineffective. But researchers behind today's new paper say that vaccination can be delivered in ways which are practical, cost-effective, and acceptable to farmers. Rupee marginally rise 1 paisa against USD 09 Oct 2024 | 6:02 PM Mumbai, Oct 9 (UNI) The Rupee on Wednesday rose marginally by one paisa to close at 83.96 against USD on selling of US Dollar by bankers and exporters, dealers at the Foreign exchange said. see more.. Sensex falls 167 71 pts 09 Oct 2024 | 6:00 PM Mumbai, Oct 9 (UNI) The BSE Sensex on Wednesday slipped 167.71 pts to close negative at 81,467.10 on profit booking by local operators. see more.. Kottayam-Kochi Rubber Market Rates 09 Oct 2024 | 6:00 PM Kottayam, Oct 9 (UNI) Following were the Rubber Market rates announced by the Rubber Board here today per quintal. see more.. Hyundai Motor India to launch its Rs 25,000-cr IPO on Oct 15 09 Oct 2024 | 5:59 PM Mumbai, Oct 9 (UNI) Hyundai Motor India Ltd, the Indian arm of South Korean automaker Hyundai, will come out with the largest initial public offering (IPO) in India of Rs 25,000 crore after LIC's initial share sale of Rs 21,000 crore. see more.. Thinking too hard hurts the brain. Thinking too hard can hurt the brain A study has found that people get stressed and annoyed more quickly when making a large mental effort and warned that teachers and employers should ease off their students and workers. Research titled 'The Unpleasantness of Thinking' analysed 170 studies involving 4,670 people across 29 countries and found that people scored higher in feelings of frustration when doing more difficult tasks. Dr. Erik Bijleveld, lead author of the study at Radboud University in the Netherlands, explained: "In general, people really dislike mental effort. "Managers often encourage employees to exert mental effort. "On the surface, this seems to work well so you may be tempted to think that employees tend to enjoy thinking hard. "Our results suggest that this conclusion would be false." The expert said that people are willing to put in mental effort to learn a difficult job or skill but it does not make them happy. Dr. Bijleveld said: "When people are required to exert substantial mental effort, you need to make sure to support or reward them." Washington, Aug 6 (UNI) US Vice President Kamala Harris told her supporters on Tuesday she chose Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her deputy for the 2024 presidential race run because he was a battle-tested leader." "Tim is a battle-tested leader who has an incredible track record of getting things done for Minnesota families," Harris said in the message addressed to supporters. In the message, shared widely on social and news media, Harris said she trusted Walz to bring his "same principal leadership to our campaign, and to the office of the vice president." Bats have caused chaos on the set of the new 'Bridget Jones' film, 'Mad About The Boy'. Bats cause chaos on Bridget Jones set When Renee Zellweger and the cast and crew landed in Keswick, in the Lake District, to film scenes for the eagerly anticipated movie, they were met with opposition from bat experts, who worried about the impact production would have on the local bat population. A source told The Sun newspaper's Bizarre column: "Filming ended up being paused by some bat experts who raised concerns about the local bat population and how they could be affected. "Apparently they were worried about whether the bats could be disturbed, which made for a right old headache. "An agreement was reached but it has become a running joke on the set. In the middle of fields in the Lake District, no one expected any issues." Meanwhile, there was also trouble during filming in London's leafy Hampstead as locals complained about the movie disrupting their daily lives. A source told The Sun: "[Areas] with stars such as Harry Styles, Rami Malek, Ricky Gervais and Rowan Atkinson, living there are all getting letters from the production about not interrupting shots. "Its gone down like a lead balloon with some of them and of course some of the normal people who live and work there. "The letters have informed them about when filming is taking place and they have been asked to either leave their homes during this time or not to come and go at certain times." Josh Hartnett's children "love" Hayley Mills - but they still haven't met her. Josh Hartnett has heaped praise on Hayley Mills The 46-year-old actor stars alongside Hayley, 78, in the new psychological thriller film 'Trap', and Josh has revealed that his children are now desperate to meet his co-star. The actor - who has four kids with actress Tamsin Egerton - told PEOPLE: "She wants to talk about everything. I loved her. She was there for pretty much the whole time we were shooting. "When she was on set we'd just sit and chat. And my daughters love her work." Josh lives in the UK with his wife and kids, and he's hoping to introduce his children to Hayley one day. He shared: "They've watched 'Pollyanna' a thousand times, and 'Parent Trap', and they came to the set but for whatever reason they didn't cross paths and they were so angry when they found out they weren't going to meet her. We're going to have to meet up in London or something." Meanwhile, Josh recently claimed that he received an "unhealthy" amount of fan attention during his younger years. The actor achieved heartthrob status as a teenager, and Josh admitted that he found it to be an overwhelming experience. He told the Observer newspaper: "Peoples attention to me at the time was borderline unhealthy." Asked to clarify what he meant, Josh replied: "Well, look, I dont want to give this a lot of weight ... There were incidents. People showed up at my house. People that were stalking me." Josh ultimately decided to step away from Hollywood, and focus his attention on independent projects instead. He explained: "There were lots of things. It was a weird time. And I wasnt going to be grist for the mill." Shawn Levy is the godfather of Ryan Reynolds' baby boy. Serena and Shawn Levy at the film's premiere The 47-year-old actor and his wife Blake Lively welcomed their son Olin in February 2023, and Shawn - who directed Ryan in 'Deadpool and Wolverine' - has now revealed that he's the godfather of their youngest child. Asked whether it was important that Blake and the kids made cameos in 'Deadpool and Wolverine', the 56-year-old director told Variety: "It just honestly was that they were available and always nearby. A lot of times, we would call people into our edit room and have them record something. "Little by little, all of the Reynoldses started being a part of the movie, including their youngest. As the proud godfather of Olin, that might be my favourite voice cameo." Asked if he ever planned to show Lady Deadpool's face in the new Marvel movie, Shawn replied: "We never discussed taking off her mask. So theres always the future." Ryan shared the name of his youngest child during an event in New York City in July. The movie star - who also has daughters James, nine, Inez, seven, and Betty, four, with Blake - revealed the name at the 'Deadpool and Wolverine' premiere at the Lincoln Center. Speaking on stage at the premiere, Ryan said: "I want to start by saying thank you to my wife, Blake, who is here. "I want to thank my kids James, Inez, Betty, Olin, who are here. I hope that, if Im lucky, this moment will be the most traumatic thing - that is, the contents of this movie - that happens in your wondrous life. "I love that my entire family is here." Indicio Academy offers training and certification in all aspects of the business and technology of decentralized identity. The partnership signals growing interest in verifiable identity and data solutions in Japan. TOKYO, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Indicio, the global market leader in decentralized identity technology, today announced an agreement to give exclusive Japanese license rights to market and distribute Indicio's training workshops and professional certification program, Indicio Academy, to Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (DNP). The Indicio Academy is a comprehensive training and certification program for decentralized identity technology that provides both business executives and technical developers with the skills required to create and implement seamless privacy-preserving technology for the instant verification of data and identity. Leveraging Indicio's expertise and leading-edge innovation in implementing decentralized identity solutions for enterprises and governments around the world, the Indicio Academy offers courses on solution architecture, system governance design and implementation, and business development and marketing. The Indicio Academy prepares teams to architect, build, market and most importantly, deploy new products and services around immediately actionable and trusted data. "We have seen intense interest in decentralized identity technology in Japan, and we've already had great success in providing Indicio Academy courses," said Heather Dahl, co-founder and CEO of Indicio. "So, this partnership is tremendously exciting in terms of the appetite for innovation and digital transformation we're seeing in the Japanese market. We created the Indicio Academy because new and powerful technologies need to be understood from all angles - through every aspect of design and implementation and marketing - if they are to be successful. We're using the knowledge behind our success and the successes of our customers to ensure that others who adopt this technology can get everything they and their customers need from it." DNP will provide and support Indicio Academy training and certification in Japan and its territories and will be responsible for translation, presentation and course facilitation for professionals who are interested in decentralized identity. "DNP was immediately impressed with Indicio Academy from the moment our in-house team was trained and certified. We used the Indicio Academy as an opportunity to let people know what they can do in this burgeoning technology field and formed an active partnership to offer the program with the goal of gaining business partners," said Takahito Kanazawa, Managing Director, Head of Advanced Business Center, DNP. The Indicio Academy also provides the opportunity for course participants to earn professional certificates related to furthering their careers. Academy certifications include: Verifiable Data Fundamentals : Foundational coursework introducing the concepts and components of decentralized identity, designed for professionals to learn how the technology works and its practical applications. : Foundational coursework introducing the concepts and components of decentralized identity, designed for professionals to learn how the technology works and its practical applications. Business Professional : Designed for executives, directors, business development, marketing, communications, public relations, and sales focusing on the business of decentralized identity, value creation, and how to monetize verifiable data. : Designed for executives, directors, business development, marketing, communications, public relations, and sales focusing on the business of decentralized identity, value creation, and how to monetize verifiable data. Technology Professional: Advanced series designed for developers, engineers, and architects covering agent architecture, key technology components, and how to build and run a successful solution. Indicio will also offer further support to companies building verifiable credential solutions in any industry vertical, with their flagship product Indicio Proven. This complete system offers a simple and fast way to add lightning-fast digital identity and data verification to any business process or application. Both companies will focus on driving digital transformation by using this technology anywhere trust is vital, information needs to be exchanged, access needs to be given, identity and data authenticity and integrity are essential. Please visit Indicio to learn more. Media: Helen Garneau PR@Indicio.tech 888-434-7344 Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2474139/Indicio_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/indicio-and-dnp-partner-to-offer-indicio-academy-certified-training-in-decentralized-identity-technology-to-the-japanese-market-302213181.html Huizhou, China--(Newsfile Corp. - August 5, 2024) - BSL New Energy Technology Co.. Ltd. (Brand: BSLBATT), an innovative high-tech company that designs and manufactures smart lithium-ion batteries for industrial forklifts used in the warehousing and distribution industries, announced today that it has opened a new factory in Zhongkai, Huizhou on July 18, 2024 to complement its BSLBATT Global Fortune 500 and Top 100 customers with faster delivery capabilities and respond to the growth of lithium-ion battery pack sales worldwide. The new building has three times the production area of the original company. One building will now house all internal manufacturing operations, assembly, logistics, service center, and corporate headquarters. This move aligns with the Company's growth strategy and is a response to the growing market demand for BSLBATT lithium batteries. BSL's new factory building and production workshop To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9276/217638_0d6ebfca7432ab79_001full.jpg President of BSLBATT, Eric Yi said, "The company is growing and this move is part of the business plan. We didn't expect that adding manufacturing space and increasing production in 2024 would become urgent. We saw the growing market share of lithium batteries in the material handling power market combined with the delayed demand last year in the first six months of 2024. We saw a perfect storm of orders!" "Our new building has three times the production area of the original company, which gives us plenty of room to grow," said Mr. Lin Peng, Chief Technology Officer of BSLBATT. "Having all elements of our internal manufacturing processes, service center, and corporate headquarters under one roof will make BSLBATT more efficient. Our customers know we are ready to go the extra mile to ensure our batteries perform as they should, and we are committed to increasing battery reliability while accelerating battery production!" Bella Chen, Sales Director at BSLBATT, emphasized the significance of this move, saying, "This new facility significantly increases our workforce, improves production efficiency, enhances production capacity, and more." Haley Ning, COO at BSLBATT, said, "We have achieved high double-digit growth each year for the past four years, which has driven our need to expand to supplement our product support and production infrastructure. The investment in the new Huizhou Zhongkai facility expands our production infrastructure to provide comprehensive and responsive delivery services to customers from global regions, while, more importantly, reducing production and transportation costs for our company." With more than 14,000 battery packs, BSLBATT is a leader in lithium battery applications, as reflected in its thought leadership and technology platform to lead customers toward clean, safe, and sustainable industrial and commercial energy solutions. The company is committed to delivering superior product performance, value, and support services, allowing customers to take their business to the next level. For more information about BSLBATT, visit lithiumforkliftbattery.com. Sales Contact BSLBATT Battery Room 608, Building 1 Zhonghui International Mansion, Huicheng District, Huizhou, Guangdong Province, China Name: Haley Ning Phone: +86-752-2819469 Email: inquiry@bsl-battery.com Web Site: https://www.lithiumforkliftbattery.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/217638 SOURCE: 500Newswire, LLC HONG KONG, Aug 6, 2024 - (ACN Newswire) - 'Fosun International (00656.HK) continues to focus on its core industries and optimize operational capabilities, resulting in increased earnings certainty, stable cash flow improvement, and continuous dividend growth. It is expected that Fosun's valuation set for gradual recovery.' On 5 August, Fosun International Securities released a research report, providing an in-depth analysis of Fosun International's investment value from four aspects: core subsidiaries' performance, globalization and industrial operational capabilities, balance sheet recovery, and dividend expectations. The report issues a 'Buy' rating on Fosun International with a target price of HKD13 per share. The research report points out that after more than 30 years of development, Fosun International has successfully implemented its 'investment + operation' strategy. Through globalized and diversified mergers and acquisitions and industry operations, Fosun has formed four major business segments: Health, Happiness (Consumption), Wealth (Finance and Insurance), and Intelligent Manufacturing. In 2019, Fosun positioned itself as an 'innovation-driven consumer group'. In early 2020, it proposed a focused strategy, shifting its focus to profound industry operations, accelerating the divestment of non-core assets, and improving financial indicators to effectively focus on its core businesses and strengthen its asset-light operation capabilities. The report further analyzes from a medium-to-long-term perspective, suggesting that four key drivers will support Fosun International's significant value recovery. Firstly, the performance and valuation of Fosun's core subsidiaries are expected to gradually improve. Fosun International owns high-quality global assets in the pharmaceutical, consumption and financial sectors. Its core subsidiaries continue to deepen their industry operations and steadily increase their market share in their respective sectors. In 2023, the four core subsidiaries, Fosun Pharma, Yuyuan, Fosun Tourism Group, and Fosun Insurance Portugal, contributed a total revenue ratio of 72%, ranking among the top players in their respective industries. They maintained stable revenue and profit growth overall and continued to pay dividends. Since the pandemic, some subsidiaries have been affected by the uncertain macroeconomic environment and weak Hong Kong stock market sentiment. At the same time, short-term profits have been dragged down by the divestment of some investment projects during the market downturn, resulting in their stock prices under pressure. However, after the listed subsidiaries optimize their operations, the significant recovery of their valuations helps boost Fosun International's valuation. Meanwhile, some subsidiaries' optimization in capital structure will also help improve valuations. For example, in June 2024, Fosun Pharma announced its plan to privatize its subsidiary Shanghai Henlius through an absorption merger. Secondly, Fosun's strong globalization and industrial operational capabilities increase earnings stability and profit growth potential. Fosun International has outstanding globalization capabilities, continuously optimized industrial operational capabilities, and the ability to cooperate with parties who possess abundant resources. It has extensive successful experience in industrial mergers and acquisitions, asset divestment, and an effective organizational management mechanism to ensure execution. The comprehensive competitiveness led by globalization and industrial operational capabilities enables Fosun to grasp the direction of macroeconomic policies, make timely strategic and tactical adjustments to ensure overall operational stability, and enhance operations and performance in core industries, thereby increasing profit growth potential and opportunities for exceeding expectations. Fosun International's overseas business contributes nearly half of its revenue, demonstrating its profound global operational capabilities, expansion and growth potential, as well as its strong capability to hedge against macro and regional risks. For example, Shanghai Henlius, a holding subsidiary of Fosun Pharma, has received US approval for its independently developed biosimilar HANQUYOU, becoming the Chinese monoclonal antibody biosimilar approved in China, the EU, and the US. Moreover, it has been approved for marketing in over 40 countries and regions. After Fosun's acquisition, Club Med quickly turned losses into profits and became a leading brand of global resorts. Yuyuan's Laomiao gold jewelry brand has maintained its market share among the top three in China's gold jewelry industry since 2019, thanks to its strong new product iteration and differentiated marketing capabilities in recent years. Thirdly, continuous debt reduction and significant balance sheet recovery support valuation improvement. Since 2021, Fosun International has continuously optimized its capital and asset structure, reduced its debt scale, continuously improved its financial indicators, and significantly reduced its leverage ratio. In May 2023, S&P Global revised Fosun's rating outlook from 'negative to 'stable'. In May 2024, S&P reaffirmed Fosun's 'stable' rating, recognizing the improvement in its balance sheet. Currently, the yield on Fosun International's offshore bonds maturing between 2025 and 2027 is in a good range of 8.5% to 9.5%, but its stock valuation has fallen to a historical low. It is expected that factors such as rating agency upgrades and steady overall revenue growth will gradually be recognized by equity investors, increasing the opportunity for valuation improvement. Fourthly, the effective implementation of the focused strategy brings opportunities for exceeding expectations in dividend increases. Fosun International's core assets are concentrated in leading growth and value-oriented companies in their respective industries. It focuses on supporting core enterprises to achieve long-term strategic goals, driving industry development, complementing industries through mergers and acquisitions, and achieving value realization through timely and balanced investment and divestment, thus creating excess capital returns for shareholders. However, the market continues to overlook the room for improvement in Fosun's revenues and profitability. At the same time, Fosun optimizes the operations of its subsidiaries through internationalization and ecosystem empowerment, continuously building top-tier business segments, maintaining steady growth in core businesses, and increasing dividends in some mature businesses. In addition to providing investors with stable dividends while optimizing performance, based on the previous dividend payout ratio of 20%, Fosun has the ability to further increase the dividend payout ratio, presenting shareholders with the opportunity for dividend returns to exceed expectations in the future. The research report also points out that Fosun International was still negatively affected by the macro environment in the first half of 2024, and profits in the short-term are expected to be under pressure. However, the focus on industry operations has led to a gradual improvement in operating conditions and optimization of core asset performance. Leading indicators of Fosun's improving performance are poised to become positive catalysts for the stock price. The research report forecasts Fosun International's revenue growth rate in 2024/25/26 to be 9.4%, 9.6%, and 8.6% respectively, and its profit attributable to owner of the parent to grow by 46.6%, 81.9%, and 55.0% respectively. Based on the sum-of-the-parts (SOTP) valuation method, the target price is set at HKD13 per share, corresponding to 0.7x 2024e P/B, issuing a 'Buy' rating on Fosun International. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved. 2024 JCN Newswire LRS Launches First Regional Office in Dubai SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Levi, Ray & Shoup Inc. (LRS) today announced the start of establishing a local presence in Dubai as part of its global expansion plans.?Our commitment to providing exceptional service and support to our customers and partners worldwide has been strengthened with the establishment of a local office in the Middle East. "Our Middle Eastern customer base has grown significantly, and our partner network has expanded, so forming a regional presence makes sense," says Greg Matthews, Chief Operating Officer at LRS. "This is a great opportunity for us to bring our expertise and innovative solutions closer to our Middle Eastern customers" concludes Matthews. Key Highlights: Strategic Expansion: The Dubai office serves as a hub for the Middle East, enabling us to provide Scan, Print and Output Management solutions and services to the region. Global expertise & local presence: Combined global expertise with local presence allows us to better understand and address the Middle Eastern market's unique needs. Commitment to Service: Having a Dubai office underscores our commitment to providing high-quality service and support to our clients, wherever they are. "We look forward to fostering new partnerships and continuing to offer innovative solutions that drive efficiency and productivity for businesses in the Middle East," explains James Masters VP EMEA. About LRS LRS is a privately held U.S. company with corporate headquarters located in Springfield, Illinois, USA. Remote offices are located throughout the United States and in key geographic regions around the world. More than half of the Fortune 1000 companies rely on industry leading LRS solutions, with products in use in over 30 countries. For more information about LRS, visit www.LRS.com . 2024 Levi, Ray & Shoup, Inc. All rights reserved. LRS and the LRS chevron logo are registered trademarks of Levi, Ray & Shoup, Inc. For more information, press only: Shannon Heisler, 217-793-3800 or Shannon.heisler@lrs.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/lrs-output-management-expands-global-footprint-into-the-middle-east-302215000.html New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - Manhattan Book Group is excited to announce the launch of its exclusive Mariel Hemingway Promotional Package, an innovative marketing service designed to provide authors with unparalleled promotional support and visibility. This new offering leverages the influence and reach of acclaimed actress and author Mariel Hemingway to help authors achieve greater success in their publishing journeys. The Mariel Hemingway Promotional Package is a game-changer for authors looking to break through the noise and make a significant impact in the literary world. This comprehensive package includes a variety of high-impact marketing services that are crafted to significantly enhance an author's visibility and credibility. "We are thrilled to introduce the Mariel Hemingway Promotional Package," said J.J. Hebert, founder and CEO of Manhattan Book Group. "Mariel Hemingway's endorsement is a powerful asset for any author looking to reach a wider audience. This package is part of our ongoing commitment to provide innovative and effective marketing solutions for our authors." Upon approval from Manhattan Book Group and Mariel Hemingway: Key Features of the Mariel Hemingway Promotional Package: Personalized Video Endorsement: One of the standout features of this package is a custom video from Mariel Hemingway herself. In this personalized video, Mariel Hemingway will endorse and highlight the approved author's book, providing an influential testimonial that can be used across various marketing channels. This endorsement from a well-known figure can significantly boost the book's credibility and appeal. One of the standout features of this package is a custom video from Mariel Hemingway herself. In this personalized video, Mariel Hemingway will endorse and highlight the approved author's book, providing an influential testimonial that can be used across various marketing channels. This endorsement from a well-known figure can significantly boost the book's credibility and appeal. Social Media Promotion: The package includes comprehensive promotion of the author's book on YouTube. Manhattan Book Group will upload the Mariel Hemingway endorsement video and promote it on YouTube via Google Ads to reach thousands of viewers. The package includes comprehensive promotion of the author's book on YouTube. Manhattan Book Group will upload the Mariel Hemingway endorsement video and promote it on YouTube via Google Ads to reach thousands of viewers. Press Release Distribution: Authors will also benefit from inclusion in a professionally crafted press release, which will be distributed to major media outlets. This press release is designed to generate widespread media coverage, further enhancing the author's visibility. Press releases remain one of the most effective ways to reach a broad audience and generate buzz around a new book. By taking advantage of the Mariel Hemingway Promotional Package, authors will benefit from the credibility and recognition associated with Mariel Hemingway's name. This can potentially lead to increased book sales and a more engaged readership. Manhattan Book Group has consistently set itself apart by offering innovative, author-centric services that combine traditional publishing professionalism with the flexibility of self-publishing. As the top hybrid publisher in New York City, Manhattan Book Group is dedicated to supporting authors at every stage of their publishing journey. The introduction of the Mariel Hemingway Promotional Package is yet another example of the company's commitment to providing authors with the tools they need to succeed. Founded by bestselling author J.J. Hebert, Manhattan Book Group operates on a hybrid publishing model. This model combines the best aspects of traditional and self-publishing, offering a flexible yet professional approach that caters to the unique needs of each author. Manhattan Book Group provides comprehensive services, including professional editing, custom cover design, interior formatting, global distribution, and targeted marketing campaigns. The goal is to ensure that each book is produced to the highest standards and reaches its target audience effectively. For authors interested in exploring publishing opportunities with Manhattan Book Group and learning more about the Mariel Hemingway Promotional Package, the company offers a complimentary consultation with a publishing specialist. This session provides potential clients with personalized advice and insights into the best publishing options suited to their needs. "Our goal is to make the publishing journey as seamless and rewarding as possible," Hebert added. "We believe every story deserves to be told, and we are here to help authors share their unique voices with the world." For more information about the Mariel Hemingway Promotional Package and how to get started, visit Manhattan Book Group. About Manhattan Book Group: Manhattan Book Group is a premier independent book publisher based in New York City, offering a hybrid publishing model that combines the benefits of traditional and self-publishing. Dedicated to empowering authors, Manhattan Book Group provides professional editing, design, marketing, and distribution services to help authors achieve their publishing goals. Manhattan Book Group Launches Mariel Hemingway Promotional Package for Authors To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/218975_267aaed8e45f4b71_002full.jpg To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218975 SOURCE: Plentisoft DKSH Management Ltd. / Key word(s): Takeover DKSH Performance Materials Extends its Life Science Business in Portugal by Acquiring Euroingredientes 06.08.2024 / 07:00 CET/CEST Media release DKSH has announced today that it signed an agreement to acquire Euroingredientes in Portugal. The acquisition enables DKSH Performance Materials Portugal to establish a strategic footprint in the food market with a unique product portfolio of food ingredients and nutraceuticals. Zurich, Switzerland, August 6, 2024 - Through the acquisition of Euroingredientes, DKSH Performance Materials secures a well-established business with more than 20 years of experience as a reliable supplier, offering a unique product portfolio of food ingredients and nutraceuticals in Portugal. Euroingredientes was established in 2001 with a focus on supplying certified high-quality ingredients into various areas of the food industry such as dairy products, beverages, as well as bread and bakery. Euroingredientes represents a portfolio of around 30 suppliers and offers a great opportunity for DKSH to further expand its life science business in Europe. DKSH acquires the assets of the business and will integrate them into its existing operations. Isabel Viegas, CEO at Euroingredientes, mentioned: "Through continuous improvement and a dedicated focus on our suppliers, Euroingredientes has been able to build exceptionally strong supplier relationships over the past 20 years. By joining forces with DKSH, we can further strengthen our position and expand our presence in the growing life science industries." Thomas Sul and Natale Capri, Co-Heads Business Unit Performance Materials at DKSH, jointly commented: "We are very happy to acquire Euroingredientes, which offers a wide range of raw materials to all areas of the food industry with strong growth prospects in Portugal. We extend a warm welcome to the team at Euroingredientes and are excited about continuing to grow the business in Europe together." The closing of the transaction is expected during the third quarter of 2024 and is subject to customary closing conditions. For further information, please contact: DKSH Holding Ltd. Till Leisner Head, Group Investor & Media Relations, Sustainability Phone +41 44 386 7315 till.leisner@dksh.com Melanie Gruter Manager Group Media Relations Phone +41 44 386 7211 melanie.grueter@dksh.com End of Media Release The global sodium sulfur battery market is propelled by a wide range of factors such as rise in environmental awareness, rapid economic growth, technological advancements, and public policies. Rapid technological advancement in sodium sulfur battery manufacturing process coupled with rise in need for sustainable and efficient energy storage solutions across various end-use sectors have led the sodium sulfur battery market to witness a significant growth in demand. WILMINGTON, Del., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Sodium Sulfur Batteries Market by Application (Load Levelling, Standby Power Sources, Fluctuating Power Stabilization, Space and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024-2033". According to the report, the sodium sulfur batteries market was valued at $0.5 billion in 2023, and is estimated to reach $1.6 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 12.3% from 2024 to 2033. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/4100 Prime determinants of growth The global sodium sulfur battery market is driven by rapid technological advancements for improving efficiency and energy density. For instance, in 2023, a Chinese-Australian research group created a new sodium-sulfur battery that purportedly provides four times the energy capacity of lithium-ion batteries. They say it is far cheaper to produce the newly developed sodium sulfur batteries and offers the potential to dramatically reduce energy storage costs. Furthermore, rise in demand for grid storage solutions to stabilize and manage electricity supply is a significant economic driver for sodium-sulfur batteries. These batteries are well-suited for large-scale energy storage, helping to balance supply and demand, integrate renewable energy sources, and provide backup power during outages. The ability to store and release large amounts of energy makes them valuable for utility companies and grid operators. This factor may surge the growth of the sodium sulfur battery market during the forecast period. However, high operating temperatures of sodium sulfur battery makes it unfit for use in various applications. This factor may restrain the growth of the sodium sulfur battery market during the forecast period. Report coverage & details: Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2024-2033 Base Year 2023 Market Size in 2023 $0.5 billion Market Size in 2033 $1.6 billion CAGR 12.3 % No. of Pages in Report 250 Segments covered Application and Region Drivers Public policies and regulatory support Growing preference for sustainable activities Rapid shift towards renewable energy sources Opportunities Government incentives and subsidies Technological Advancements Restraints High operating temperatures The load levelling segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period. Sodium-sulfur batteries are widely used in load leveling applications due to their high energy density, long cycle life, and excellent charge/discharge efficiency. These batteries can store large amounts of energy for extended periods, making them ideal for smoothing out fluctuations in electricity demand and supply. Additionally, sodium-sulfur batteries can operate efficiently over a wide range of temperatures, maintaining performance even in challenging environmental conditions. Their robustness and reliability ensure consistent performance in load leveling applications, helping to stabilize the grid and optimize energy distribution. Overall, sodium-sulfur batteries are well-suited for load leveling due to their energy storage capacity, durability, and versatility in meeting the dynamic needs of modern power systems. Procure Complete Report (250 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures) @ https://bit.ly/4dcK8DE North America to maintain its dominance by 2033 The demand for sodium-sulfur batteries is increasing in the North America region primarily due to the growing emphasis on renewable energy integration and grid modernization initiatives. As North America transitions towards a more sustainable energy future, there is a need for efficient energy storage solutions to support the integration of intermittent renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Sodium-sulfur batteries, with their high energy density, long cycle life, and ability to provide reliable grid support, are increasingly recognized as viable options for large-scale energy storage applications. Moreover, advancements in sodium-sulfur battery technology, coupled with government incentives and favorable regulatory frameworks promoting energy storage deployment, are further driving their adoption in North America. These factors collectively contribute to rise in demand for sodium-sulfur batteries in the region, as utilities and grid operators seek to enhance grid reliability, resilience, and sustainability. Leading Market Player: - NGK INSULATORS, LTD. Note: Since, NGK INSULATORS, LTD is the only commercial manufacturer of sodium sulfur battery worldwide. We will update our competitive landscape profile once new players emerge in the sodium sulfur battery market. For Purchase Inquiry: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/sodium-sulfur-batteries-market/purchase-options The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global sodium sulfur battery market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario. 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Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact us: David Correa 1209 Orange Street, Corporation Trust Center, Wilmington, New Castle, Delaware 19801 USA. Int'l: +1-503-894-6022 Toll Free: +1-800-792-5285 Fax: +1-800-792-5285 help@alliedmarketresearch.com Web: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/reports-store/energy-and-power Follow Us on | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sodium-sulfur-batteries-market-to-reach-1-6-billion-globally-by-2033-at-12-3-cagr-allied-market-research-302215108.html Summit offers Companies an effective way to exchange best practices, support gender balance and positively impact business performance DUBAI, UAE, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- House of Rose Professional Pte. Ltd (HORP) - the leader in global female executive leadership development today announced that top executives from BIC, Zurich Insurance, Johnson & Johnson and Fine Hygienic Holding would lead a C-Suite speaker line up for the 2024 Middle East Africa Edition of HORP's Break the ceiling touch the sky - the success and leadership summit for women, to be held in Dubai on Sept 9, 2024. The summit will bring together the region's most successful executives across the world's best Companies to share best practices on leadership, diversity & inclusion and success, enable Companies to learn across industries and connect with ley stakeholders. HORP has intentionally continued to site this edition of the summit in Dubai to continue to support the UAE's focus on gender balance. This is the seventh annual Middle East edition of the summit. The 2024 Middle East Africa Edition of Break the ceiling touch the sky has as its Industry Partners - AmCham Dubai, AmCham Abu Dhabi, Canadian Business Council for Dubai and Northern Emirates etc. whose members are entitled to preferential Industry partner rates. Companies that wish to join and benefit from this unique, cross-industry, leadership initiative may sign up as Participating Companies at preferential Industry Partner rates (USD 4500 for 10 delegates) at https://houseofroseprofessional.com/middle-east-2024/ Companies interested in partnering with the summit as sponsors contact Anthony Rose at anthony@houseofroseprofessional.com Speakers for Sept 9, 2024 include Bouchra Bensaoud, President, Danaher Middle East, Africa and Turkey, Danaher Corporation; Mufazzal Kajiji, Chief Executive Officer - Middle East, Zurich Insurance; Farah Hamdan, General Manager, Central Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa Indirect Markets; Zimmer Biomet; Peter Van den Broeck, Senior VP, GM, Middle East-Africa, BIC; Cara Nazari, Chief Executive Officer, AmCham Dubai; James Michael Lafferty, Chief Executive Officer, Fine Hygienic Holding; Pedro Matos Rosa, Managing Director of Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine Gulf; Walid Samara, Vice President and General Manager, Northern Region Middle East Africa, Emerson; Sandrine R.M.El Khodry, Senior Vice President EEIMEA Region (Emergent Europe, Turkey, Middle East & Africa, South Asia), Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise; Ekaterina Pichugova, General Manager GULF, Mars Wrigley Middle East & Africa; Liz Beneski, Chief Executive Officer, AmCham Abu Dhabi; Dorsaf Essoussi, Former Regional Head North Africa, Egypt, Russia and CIS, Viatris and now Senior Advisor, House of Rose Professional Pte. Ltd.; Diana Syzszka-Pompei, Executive Director, Canadian Business Council of Dubai and the Northern Emirates; Alex von Behr, President vBAssociates and head of House of Rose Professional's CEOSmith vertical; Anthony A. Rose, Chairman and CEO, House of Rose Professional Pte. Ltd. and founder of Break the ceiling touch the sky. Cara Nazari, Chief Executive Officer, AMCHAM Dubai, "We are delighted that House of Rose Professional has once again chosen Dubai as the host city for the 2024 Middle East & Africa Edition of Break the ceiling touch the sky. AmCham Dubai deeply believes in the power of gender diversity & inclusion. AmCham Dubai is pleased to partner once again with Break the Ceiling Touch the Sky and support gender diversity which is a key business priority for the Middle East region and for our corporate members." Pedro Matos Rosa, Managing Director of Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine Gulf, commented: "We are excited to partner with Break the Ceiling Touch the Sky to showcase our commitment to belonging and inclusion at Johnson & Johnson. Diversity and inclusion are integral to our daily operations and the foundation of our innovative approach. This partnership underscores our dedication to fostering an environment where diverse perspectives drive the future of healthcare." Peter Van den Broeck, Senior VP, GM Middle East and Africa at BIC commented, "We are proud to partner with House of Rose Professional for the fourth year in a row to help bring gender equality to the top of the agenda, professionally and beyond. Our commitment to fostering a diverse and equal environment at BIC drives our actions externally. Our strategic partnership with House of Rose Professional provides us with a platform to exchange knowledge with likeminded organizations and individuals, so that collectively, we can reach industry-wide DEI goals." Mufazzal Kajiji, Chief Executive Officer, Zurich International Life - Middle East, said, "We take great pride in the diversity of our people and recognize them as our most valuable asset. With an equal gender ratio and women occupying key positions across various functions, we prioritize inclusivity and equal opportunities. Our collaboration with Break the ceiling touch the sky, the premier global forum for women in leadership, will empower us to exchange best practices and implement strategies that drive innovation and help further strengthen our business." Break the ceiling touch the sky is the world's leading forum for women in leadership, with editions across the world since 2015. Post the 2024 MEA edition in Dubai, Break the ceiling touch the sky will host its 2024 World Edition in Singapore on Nov 11, 2024. Companies interested in partnering as sponsors can reach Anthony Rose at anthony@houseofroseprofessional.com House of Rose Professional Pte. Ltd. (HORP) is a leader in global female executive leadership development and provides international services in the areas of Talent (BeliEVE), Training (Break the ceiling touch the sky) and Transformation (CEOSmith). HORP has since 2014, enabled close to 40000 women leaders to greater success globally. HORP is also the owner of the annual Break the ceiling touch the sky 101 Best Global Companies for women in leadership Index (BTC 101 Global Index) - the world's first and only statistically-based evaluation of gender diversity across the Board and C-suite of the world's 500 largest Companies. To sign up as a Participating Company: https://houseofroseprofessional.com/middle-east-2024/ To partner as sponsor/ other inquiries contact: Anthony A. Rose House of Rose Professional Pte. Ltd. Email: anthony@houseofroseprofessional.com www.houseofroseprofessional.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1914448/House_of_Rose_Professional_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/johnson--johnson-bic-zurich-insurance-fhh-to-headline-2024-middle-east-africa-edition-of-break-the-ceiling-touch-the-sky-summit-302215080.html Allego (NYSE: ALLG), a leading pan-European electric vehicle network, announces the grant of a 20 million loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) as part of the CROSS-E project co-funded by the European Union. This financial support will support Allego's strong development of EV-charging infrastructure inside Poland as part of the company's ongoing Eastern European expansion project. Electric vehicle adoption in Poland, which ranks among the lowest in Europe in terms of EV charging penetration, can only be fostered through a robust and fully functional EV charging infrastructure. This initiative promotes the broad availability of efficient and dependable electric mobility throughout the continent as part of the European Union's efforts to decarbonize road transportation. Allego is set to deploy more than 200 light and heavy-duty vehicles (LDV /HDV) EV recharging points across over 50 strategic locations in Poland. This effort will include installing and integrating these recharging points into the existing Allego network. Additionally, Allego will provide comprehensive maintenance and operational support for these facilities, enhancing the user experience with smart charging and efficient billing systems. The project in Poland is co-funded by the EU's Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) program, supporting European transport infrastructure projects along the TEN-T Network and in Urban Nodes. Gunnar Landfester, Allego Managing Director for Central Eastern Europe, says, "This financial support will improve greater EV adoption in Europe, specifically in Eastern Europe. Thanks to this, we can expand our network and further our goal of creating highly efficient charging for all EV drivers." Vianney Heeren, Director of Structured Finance at Allego, commented, "With this financing, we can go forward with our infrastructure initiatives much more quickly, guaranteeing that Allego will support Poland's quick transition to electric vehicles. It demonstrates our business strategy's capacity to expand operations successfully throughout Europe." This initiative further demonstrates Allego's dedication to electric mobility innovation and its role in facilitating Europe's green transformation. About Allego Allego is a leading electric vehicle charging solutions provider dedicated to accelerating the transition to electric mobility with 100% renewable energy. Allego has developed a comprehensive portfolio of innovative charging infrastructure and proprietary software, including Allamo and EV Cloud platforms. With a network of 35,000 charging points (and counting) spanning 16 countries, Allego delivers independent, reliable, and safe charging solutions, agnostic of vehicle model or network affiliation. Founded in 2013 and publicly listed on the NYSE in 2022, Allego now employs a team of 220 people striving daily to make charging accessible, sustainable, and enjoyable for all. For more information, please visit www.allego.eu. About EBRD EBRD is a multilateral bank that promotes the development of the private sector and entrepreneurial initiative in 36 economies across three continents. The Bank is owned by 73 countries as well as the EU and the EIB. EBRD investments are aimed at making the economies in its regions competitive, well governed, green, inclusive, resilient and integrated. About CROSS-E The CROSS-E project has been established to enable a path towards future zero-emission travel by realizing high-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging points along key routes and ports across Europe. The four companies selected to carry out the project, Allego, Petrol Group, GreenWay, and Emobility Solutions, will install 911 high-powered charging points (150 kW and 350 kW) at 239 locations tailored to both light and heavy-duty electric vehicles (LDV HDV). The project has been selected to implement 130 million euros in investments in high-power charging infrastructure with a total grant of 34.45 million euros from the European Union. It is scheduled to be finalized by October 2026. The CROSS-E project comprises two intertwined initiatives: CROSS-E General and Cross-E Cohesion. These projects will receive co-funding from the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), the EU funding program supporting European transport infrastructure. Therefore, the aim is to complement the existing infrastructure with enhanced cross-border connections between neighboring countries. CROSS-E installations will adhere strictly to the European Commission's Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR), guaranteeing open recharge infrastructure access. All locations will be accessible to the public 24/7 and support roaming and open-access payment methods, including NFC, credit cards, and app-based payments. Deploying charging points for specifically Heavy Duty Vehicles (HDV) in selected markets will also offer valuable insights ahead of broader installations across all project partners and countries. Forward-Looking Statements All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Allego intends forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may generally be identified by the use of words such as "believe," "may," "will," "estimate," "continue," "anticipate," "intend," "expect," "should," "would," "plan," "project," "forecast," "predict," "potential," "seem," "seek," "future," "outlook," "target" or other similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or phrases) that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, Allego's expectations concerning future performance. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause the results to differ materially and potentially adversely from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Most of these factors are outside Allego's control and are difficult to predict. Factors that may cause such differences include, but are not limited to: (i) the ability of the Company to cure the minimum share price deficiency and regain compliance with NYSE listing standards and for the Company's ordinary shares to remain listed on the NYSE, (ii) changes adversely affecting Allego's business, (iii) the price and availability of electricity and other energy sources, (iv) the risks associated with vulnerability to industry downturns and regional or national downturns, (v) fluctuations in Allego's revenue and operating results, (vi) unfavorable conditions or further disruptions in the capital and credit markets, (vii) Allego's ability to generate cash, service indebtedness and incur additional indebtedness, (viii) competition from existing and new competitors, (ix) the growth of the electric vehicle market, (x) Allego's ability to integrate any businesses it may acquire, (xi) the agreement of various landowners to deployment of Allego charging stations, (xii) Allego's ability to recruit and retain experienced personnel, (xiii) risks related to legal proceedings or claims, including liability claims, (xiv) Allego's dependence on third-party contractors to provide various services, (xv) data security breaches or other network outage, (xvi) Allego's ability to obtain additional capital on commercially reasonable terms, (xvii) Allego's ability to remediate its material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting, (xviii) the impact of COVID-19, including COVID-19 related supply chain disruptions and expense increases, (xix) general economic or political conditions, including the Russia/Ukraine and Israel/Hamas conflicts or increased trade restrictions between the United States, Russia, China and other countries, and (xx) other factors detailed under the section entitled "Risk Factors" in Allego's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The preceding list of factors is not exclusive. If any of these risks materialize or Allego's assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that Allego does not know or that Allego currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect Allego's expectations, plans, or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. Allego anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause Allego's assessments to change. However, while Allego may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, Allego expressly disclaims any obligation to do so unless required by applicable law. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Allego's assessments as of any date after the date of this press release. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806336149/en/ Contacts: Allego Contacts: Investors investors@allego.eu Media press@allego.eu Manufacturing is only the beginning with the Dubai facility as the new Regional Head Office Datalec Precision Installations (DPI), a provider of world-class data centre design, supply, build, and managed services delivering seamless and integrated end-to-end solutions for data centre operators, is proud to announce a significant milestone in its expansion plans. A new manufacturing facility in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) marks its strong commitment to the region. The dedicated 51,000-square-foot facility will produce aisle containment and security caging to DPI's exacting standards. As part of DPI's strategic growth, the business has further committed to the Middle East region by developing its regional team, investing, and mirroring its European manufacturing capabilities in Dubai. Fully operational by the end of Summer, the new facility will also serve as its Regional Head Office, including a marketing suite and a training room. "Sustainability was not just a consideration, but a key factor in our site selection," says Sean Christie, Projects Director for Datalec in the Middle East. "The focus is on delivering manufactured products with an effort to reduce embodied carbon within the final products, demonstrating our commitment to environmental responsibility." The facility features a 450-kilowatt rooftop solar array, providing on-site renewable power. The building is strategically located near national air and sea freight infrastructure to improve project delivery lead times and reduce transportation emissions. Most of the supply chain materials are also sourced locally within a 20-kilometre radius. DPI plans further investment in an in-house Powder Coating facility to replicate the arrangement in the company's UK Headquarters. Learn more about Datalec Precision Installations (DPI): https://datalecltd.com Datalec will exhibit at GITEX Global 2024, which will take place from 14 to 18 October in Dubai. About Datalec Datalec Precision Installations provides world-class data centre design, build, and installation services that leverage unique technical expertise, including technical and critical cleaning, electronic security, and managed services. Our 'One Call, One Team' service ensures a seamless end-to-end solution, achieving the highest levels of performance and efficiency. DPI's rigorous project management benefits customers by minimising risks and reducing costs. In addition, our proactive and flexible approach guarantees the delivery of customised solutions that exceed customer requirements. For more information, visit: https://datalecltd.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806252419/en/ Contacts: Ilissa Miller iMiller Public Relations Email: datalec@imillerpr.com Tel: 1.914.315.6424 Kupfer wird oft als das Gold der Energiewende bezeichnet, weil es aufgrund seiner hervorragenden elektrischen Leitfahigkeit eine zentrale Rolle in vielen Technologien spielt, die fur nachhaltige Energiesysteme entscheidend sind. Experten gehen aufgrund der Angebotsknappheit von einem Superzyklus aus. Korrektur als Einstiegschance Nach Hochststanden im Mai korrigierte das rote Metall stark. Die Abwartsspirale verstarkte sich in den vergangenen Tagen aufgrund schwacher Konjunkturdaten aus den USA und China. Langfristig konnte sich die aktuell laufende Korrektur als exzellente Einstiegsmoglichkeit herausstellen. 3 Kupferaktien mit hohem Potential Im neuen, kostenlosen Spezialreport stellen wir drei aussichtsreiche Unternehmen vor, die bei einem weiteren Anstieg uberproportional profitieren konnten. Handeln Sie jetzt und sichern Sie sich Ihren kostenfreien Report! Banks can now build and manage products and pricing in real time enabling them to offer a superior banking experience Zafin, the leading provider of SaaS core modernization and transformation solutions for banks and 10x Banking, the next gen cloud-native core banking platform, today announced a strategic global collaboration to accelerate innovation for banks and financial institutions, by providing an end-to-end core system integrated with leading product and pricing capabilities. Zafin's solutions are trusted by top banks worldwide while 10x's core banking platform powers major financial institutions globally, including Chase UK and Westpac. Core modernization projects are challenging, with a staggering 70% of digital banking transformations exceeding their original budgets, and 7% end up costing more than double initial projections, according to McKinsey research. Working together, Zafin and 10x significantly reduce risk and alleviate challenges associated with these projects. Zafin's platform, known for its agility and flexibility, enables banks to modernize their core systems incrementally. By leveraging Zafin's product and pricing capabilities alongside seamless 10x integration, banks can embark on smaller, less disruptive projects that deliver immediate value. This phased implementation mitigates risk and helps maintain stakeholder confidence by demonstrating tangible progress and benefits early in the process. Moreover, it enables a pay-forward approach by introducing innovations that create revenue streams, effectively reversing the traditional capital expenditure paradigm funding for future core transformations. For banks looking to hollow out their core, the Zafin integration into the 10x Banking platform provides one seamless interface for multiple cores to co-exist beneath Zafin. This integration empowers banks to easily build and manage products and pricing across multiple core systems. 10x further augments Zafin's product and pricing solution by providing polyglot coding options that allow banks to tailor the platform to their specific needs and requirements. "Where legacy technology was previously holding back innovation, banks and other financial institutions can now modernize and transform their core banking system and as a result deliver a superior banking experience for their customers," said Okan Ozaltin, Chief Product Officer at 10x. "Together, 10x Banking and Zafin offer banks years of combined financial services expertise and proven technologies that reduce complexity, enabling banks to work in a more agile operating environment to bring new products to market faster and at lower cost." Chris Dickin, Global Head of Strategic Partnerships at Zafin commented, "Working with 10x Banking provides banks with a highly modular, enterprise-grade core that easily scales with Zafin's product and pricing platform so banks can gain efficiencies by streamlining existing and new operations. We look forward to working closely with the 10x team to provide innovative solutions to the banking sector." Learn more about the 10x Banking Platform. Learn more abouttheZafin platform About 10x Banking 10x Banking is a cloud-native core banking platform for financial institutions and their partners. Founded by former banking executives and built by technologists, the 10x Banking platform empowers its customers with best-in-class security, scalability and speed. Proven across transformational deployments including Chase Bank, Old Mutual and Westpac, 10x Banking offers banks the fastest, most cost-effective and derisked path to full cloud-native transformation through its unique 'meta core' approach. Its scalable, resilient, and flexible technology is built to empower financial institutions to better serve their customers and communities. 10x Banking is a B-Corp certified business with offices in London, UK and Sydney, Australia and is funded by a portfolio of world-class investors including BlackRock and J.P. Morgan. Learn more at https://10xbanking.com About Zafin Founded in 2002, Zafin is a leading provider of SaaS core modernization and transformation solutions offering an integrated platform and capabilities that simplify operations and enable increased revenue, profitability, and enhanced customer experiences for top banks worldwide. Our platform enables business users to work collaboratively to design and manage pricing, products, and packages, while technologists streamline core banking systems. With Zafin, banks accelerate time to market for new products and offers while lowering the cost of change and achieving tangible business and risk outcomes. The Zafin platform increases business agility while enabling personalized pricing and dynamic responses to evolving customer and market needs. Zafin is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with offices and customers around the globe, including ING, CIBC, HSBC, Wells Fargo, ANZ and PNC. For more information go to www.zafin.com. Connect with Zafin on Twitter at @zafin, on LinkedIn on YouTube at Zafin YouTube or read the Zafin blog. "Zafin" is a trademark of Zafin. Other product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806202051/en/ Contacts: Media: Juliet Mafua juliet.mafua@zafin.com LONDON, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Markel, the insurance operations within Markel Group, today announced the appointment of Robert Hannaford to the role of Senior Underwriter, Life Science, and James Murray as Head of General Liability, with immediate effect. These new arrivals will be based in the organisation's International Casualty team, reporting to Graeme Ivory, Director, International Casualty. In his new position, Hannaford will support the development and build-out of Markel's Life Science portfolio in London, ensuring long-term profitable growth. His other primary duties will involve identifying and assessing risk exposures to provide tailored insurance coverage through superior underwriting for a range of life science companies, including areas such as pharmaceutical manufacturing/distribution, nutraceuticals, medical devices, contract manufacturing and clinical trials, among others. Hannaford brings more than a decade of underwriting experience to his new role, including cross-functional skills and expertise in life sciences, clinical trials and large multinational programmes for various industries. Previously, Hannaford spent 11 years at Newline Group. After joining as an underwriting assistant, he was promoted to Underwriter, where he serviced international clients and collaborated with overseas offices to provide global solutions for their clients locally across the insurer's Life Science portfolio. Meanwhile, Murray will work closely with Ivory to develop and lead a profitable International General Liability portfolio. This will include fostering broker relationships and ensuring high service levels and response times are maintained for them and their stakeholders. He will also be tasked with recruiting new underwriters to the International General Liability team and mentoring existing colleagues, including supporting their professional development. Previously, Murray was employed at AXA XL as Underwriting Manager for International Wholesale Liability, UK and Lloyd's, where he led a team of underwriters and was responsible for managing coverholder relationships across Canada, Australia and Europe. Before his employment at AXA XL, Murray worked in MS Amlin's International Casualty division for six years, during which time he received two promotions in short succession from Underwriting Assistant to Underwriter, International Casualty. Speaking of his new hires, Ivory commented: "I'm delighted to welcome Robert and James to the International Casualty team, here at Markel. With their combined underwriting knowledge, expertise and experience in portfolio management, I'm confident they'll play an important role in helping us to realise our profitable growth ambitions for our Life Science and International General Liability business lines." He concluded: "Both Robert and James' arrival underpin our long-term commitment to supporting brokers and clients, as well as key business partners across Markel International's Specialty classes of business. I look forward to seeing the insights and contributions they'll bring to support our strategic growth plans and ambitions for Markel's Specialty division in London." About Markel We are Markel, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we operate the Markel Specialty, Markel International, and Markel Global Reinsurance divisions, as well as State National, our portfolio protection and program services operations, and Nephila, our insurance-linked securities operations. Our broad array of capabilities and expertise allow us to create intelligent solutions for the most complex risk management needs. However, it is our people - and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients - that differentiates us worldwide. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2469328/Markel_Robert_Hannaford.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2469327/Markel_James_Murray.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2090808/Markel_primary_logo_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/markel-boosts-international-casualty-team-with-key-appointments-302214242.html Rise in incidence of chronic diseases, increase in geriatric population and growth in acceptance of stem cell therapies are the major factors which drive the global market growth. WILMINGTON, Del., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Regenerative Medicine Market by Product Type (Cell Therapy, Gene Therapy, Tissue Engineering and Small Molecule & Biologic), Material (Synthetic Material, Biologically Derived Material, Genetically Engineered Material and Pharmaceutical), and Application (Cardiovascular, Oncology, Dermatology, Musculoskeletal, Wound Healing, Ophthalmology, Neurology and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024-2033". According to the report, the regenerative medicine market was valued at $32.1 billion in 2023, and is estimated to reach $531.7 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 32.4% from 2024 to 2033. Request Sample of the Report on Regenerative Medicine Market Forecast 2033 - https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/391 Prime determinants of growth Rise in incidences of chronic diseases and increase in geriatric population are the major factors that drive the growth of the regenerative medicine market growth. However, high costs of treatment hinder the market growth. Moreover, technological advancements and regulatory Support and funding offers remunerative opportunities for the expansion of the global regenerative medicine market. Report coverage & details Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2024-2033 Base Year 2023 Market Size In 2023 $32.1billion Market Size In 2033 $531.7 Billion CAGR 32.4 % No. Of Pages In Report 216 Segments Covered Product Type, Material, Application, And Region. Drivers Rise In Incidences of Chronic Diseases Increase In Geriatric Population Growing Acceptance of Stem Cell Therapies Opportunities Technological Advancements Regulatory Support and Funding Restraints High Costs of Treatment Ethical And Safety Concerns Segment Highlights The cell therapy segment to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period By product type, the cell therapy segment generated the highest revenue in the regenerative medicine market in 2023. Cell therapy is a cornerstone of regenerative medicine, leveraging the therapeutic potential of stem cells and other cellular materials to repair, replace, or regenerate damaged tissues and organs. By harnessing the regenerative properties of cells, this approach offers promising solutions for treating a wide range of diseases and injuries, improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Want to Explore More, Connect to our Analyst - https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/connect-to-analyst/391 The biologically segment to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period By material, the biological segment generated the highest revenue in the regenerative medicine market in 2023. Biologically derived materials are increasingly sought after in regenerative medicine due to their compatibility with the body's natural healing processes. These materials, such as extracellular matrix scaffolds and growth factors derived from tissues or organisms, provide a supportive environment for cell growth, differentiation, and tissue regeneration. Their biocompatibility and bioactivity make them ideal candidates for promoting tissue repair and regeneration in various medical applications, driving their demand in regenerative therapies. The oncology segment to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period By application, the oncology segment generated the highest revenue in the regenerative medicine market in 2023. The growing prevalence of chronic diseases, particularly cancer, underscores the need for innovative treatment approaches like regenerative medicine. Cancer cases often result in tissue damage from treatments such as chemotherapy or surgery. Regenerative therapies offer promising solutions by harnessing the body's natural regenerative capacities to repair or replace damaged tissues, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life in cancer care. For Purchase Inquiry - https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/391 Regional Outlook The regenerative medicine market exhibits a promising regional outlook, with North America and Europe leading in terms of market share due to advanced healthcare infrastructure, supportive regulatory frameworks, and robust research and development activities. In contrast, the Asia-Pacific region is poised for rapid growth, driven by increasing healthcare expenditure, expanding biotechnology sectors, and rising awareness of regenerative therapies. Emerging economies in Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing growing interest and investment in regenerative medicine technologies. Key Players Stryker Corporation Zimmer Biomet Holdings Inc. Medtronic Plc. Athersys Inc. Stem Cell Inc. (Bioheart Inc.) Organogenesis Inc. Integra Lifesciences Holdings Corporation Acelity Holdings Inc. Isto Biologics (Isto Biologics Medical Systems Inc.) CryoLife Inc. The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global regenerative medicine market. These players have adopted different strategies such as expansion, acquisition, product approval, product launch and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario. Recent Industry Development In December 2023, The University of Toronto's Medicine by Design initiative and CCRM, a non-profit organization that supports the development and commercialization of regenerative medicines, announced a launch of new strategic alliance to unlock Toronto's potential as a world-leading ecosystem for regenerative medicine. The goal of the alliance is to create coordinated, end-to-end capacity that spans discovery through to clinical translation and commercialization. In January 2021, Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation, a global leader in regenerative tissue technologies and neurosurgical solutions, announced that it has completed the previously disclosed acquisition of ACell, Inc. Acquiring ACell and its proprietary MatriStem UBM technologies will enable Integra to provide more comprehensive complex wound management solutions to address our customers' most pressing clinical challenges. In August 2023, Gilead Sciences and Tentarix Biotherapeutics entered into three multi-year collaborations to leverage Tentarix's Tentacles platform for the discovery and development of innovative, multi-functional protein-based therapies for cancer and inflammatory diseases. In December 2022, Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation, a global leader in regenerative tissue technologies and neurosurgical solutions, announced that it has successfully completed its acquisition of Surgical Innovation Associates (SIA) . This acquisition is a highly strategic move to enable us to achieve our aspirations to become a global leader and innovator of implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) procedures. AVENUE- A Subscription-Based Library (Premium on-demand, subscription-based pricing model) Offered by Allied Market Research: AMR introduces its online premium subscription-based library Avenue, designed specifically to offer cost-effective, one-stop solution for enterprises, investors, and universities. With Avenue, subscribers can avail an entire repository of reports on more than 2,000 niche industries and more than 12,000 company profiles. Moreover, users can get an online access to quantitative and qualitative data in PDF and Excel formats along with analyst support, customization, and updated versions of reports. Get an access to the library of reports at any time from any device and anywhere. For more details, follow the link: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/library-access About Allied Market Research: Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Wilmington, Delaware. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domains. AMR offers its services across 11 industry verticals including Life Sciences, Consumer Goods, Materials & Chemicals, Construction & Manufacturing, Food & Beverages, Energy & Power, Semiconductor & Electronics, Automotive & Transportation, ICT & Media, Aerospace & Defense, and BFSI. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact David Correa 1209 Orange Street, Corporation Trust Center, Wilmington, New Castle, Delaware 19801 USA. Toll Free: +1-800-792-5285 Int'l: +1-503-894-6022 UK: +44-845-528-1300 Hong Kong: +852-301-84916 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1-855-550-5975 help@alliedmarketresearch.com Web: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com Follow Us on: LinkedIn Twitter Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/regenerative-medicine-market-to-reach-531-7-billion-globally-by-2033-at-32-4-cagr-allied-market-research-302215361.html Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The UN Global Compact successfully concluded its regional flagship event, "Forward Faster Now | Asia & Oceania," held at the Asia School of Business on 5-6 August. The event convened leaders from various sectors to accelerate sustainable business practices and advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) attracting nearly 500 participants. According to the Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024 with just six years remaining, current progress falls far short of what is required to meet the SDGs. Without massive investment and scaled up action, the achievement of the SDGs - the blueprint for a more resilient and prosperous world and the roadmap out of current global crises - will remain elusive. The report reveals that only 17 per cent of the SDG targets are currently on track, with nearly half showing minimal or moderate progress, and over one-third stalled or regressing. With over 60 per cent of the world's population, the Asia and Oceania region represents more than two-thirds of projected global growth. Its vast networks of supply chains, made up mostly of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), are integral to international production, trade and investment. And with its diversity of cultures, advances in digitization and history of business innovation, Asia and Oceania is uniquely placed to advance corporate sustainability on the global stage. "The commitment and innovative spirit of businesses in Asia and Oceania are vital to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. By leveraging their resources and expertise, the private sector can lead the way in creating a more sustainable and equitable future for all," said Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact. Businesses in the Asia and Oceania region possess the capacity to innovate, invest and implement scalable solutions that address environmental and social challenges. By integrating sustainable practices into their operations, companies significantly contribute to achieving the SDGs, fostering economic growth, and promoting inclusive prosperity. During the event, leaders emphasized the importance of private sector engagement in sustainable development. Companies showcased initiatives ranging from renewable energy projects to sustainable supply chain practices, highlighting the transformative impact of corporate responsibility. Thus far, more than 270 participating companies of the UN Global Compact from the Asia and Oceania region have joined the Forward Faster initiative, which calls on business leaders everywhere to take measurable, credible, and ambitious action in five action areas -gender equality, climate action, living wage, finance & investment, and water resilience- where the private sector can collectively make the biggest, fastest impact to accelerate progress across all 17 SDGs by 2030. "By committing to measurable targets and reporting on their progress, companies can gain credibility with stakeholders and position themselves on the cutting edge of global markets," Ojiambo said. "We know that the leaders who succeed are those who identify and meet the needs of the future." Driving impact The UN Global Compact unveiled a new reportshowcasing impact stories from the Asia and Oceania region to vividly communicate the tangible results of participating companies' work within the framework of the UN Global Compact. Each story gathered from companies from China, Japan, Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand to highlight the unique ways companies from the region engaging with UN Global Compact are working to find solutions to sustainability challenges. The purpose of the stories is to serve as examples for other businesses looking to integrate sustainability into their core operations. The Forward Faster Now Asia event is the first of a series of regional Forward Faster Now events planned to showcase the actions being taken by the private sector locally and regionally and highlight the many opportunities and challenges in a particular region. Discussions from Forward Faster Now Asia will also feed into events organized by the UN Global Compact during the High-Level week of the UN General Assembly in September, including its flagship event, the Leaders Summit 2024. Notes to Editors About the United Nations Global Compact The ambition of the UN Global Compact is to accelerate and scale the global collective impact of business by upholding the Ten Principles and delivering the SDGs through accountable companies and ecosystems that enable change. With more than 20,000 participating companies, 5 Regional Hubs, 62 Country Networks covering 78 countries and 14 Country Managers establishing Networks in 20 other countries, the UN Global Compact is the world's largest corporate sustainability initiative - one Global Compact uniting business for a better world. After Tax NPV5% of US$111 Million at US$2,100/oz Au price After Tax NPV5% of US$153 Million at Spot prices 1 Average annual production targeted at approx. 56,000 Gold Equivalent Ounces ("GEO") 2 Life of Mine Average annual EBITDA of US$49 Million and FCF of US$25 Million LOM average EBITDA of US$64 Million and FCF of US$29 Million at Spot prices 1 Mine life of 5 years, from April 2024 based on existing Resources Average Cash Costs of US$863/oz; Avg AISC US$1,144/oz No Material Upfront Capital Expenditures required Updated Mineral Resource Estimate contains 490,000ozs of Measured and Indicated Resources and 121,150 ozs of Inferred Resources with potential upside from continued drilling & resource expansion 1. Spot prices; Au: US$2,400/oz and Ag:US$29/oz 2. GEO calculated by multiplying recovered silver ounces by (25/2100) TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / CERRADO GOLD ("Cerrado" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the results of a NI 43-101 Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") and an updated Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") for its Minera Don Nicolas mine located in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina. The work was completed by GeoEstima SpA. The final report is to be completed and available on SEDAR+ by 20th September 2024. Mark Brennan, CEO of Cerrado Gold commented "The results of the PEA support the near-term operational performance we are targeting for Minera Don Nicolas. These results support our view that MDN is set to enter a period of stable operations, generating robust cash flows enabling the reduction of debt and enhancing the overall financial strength of Cerrado. When combined with the expected receipt of US$45MM in total cash payments for the recent sale of our Brazilian asset over the next two years, Cerrado will be well positioned for strong future growth. For the next few years, MDN will be focused on growing resources to extend the mine life and leverage the value of our existing operations. We continue to view MDN as early in its exploration life and see the potential for a world-class multi-deposit district moving forward." PEA Summary Results PEA Base Case1 Average Annual Gold Equivalent Production (ounces) 55,869 Mine life (years) - Mine Plan start Date 1 April 2024 5.0 Total Gold Equivalent Production (ounces) 279,345 NPV @ 5% discount rate (millions, after-tax) $ 111 NPV @ 8% discount rate (millions, after-tax) $ 105 Gold Price (US$/oz) 2,100.0 Silver Price (US$/oz) 25.0 Average Annual EBITDA $ 49.2 M Average Annual FCF $ 25.2 M Capital Costs Initial capital expenditure (Initial Capex) $ 0 M Sustaining capital expenditures $ 9.5 M Reclamation cost $ 7 M Salvage Value $ 3.3 M Operating Costs Total cash cost (per ounce sold) 2 864 Mine-site all-in-sustaining cost (per ounce sold) 3 1,146 Notes: 1. Sprott Streaming Agreement has been excluded from this analysis 2. Before royalties and after by-product credits 3. Include C1 cash costs, plus royalties plus sustaining capital Mineral Resource Estimate The PEA is based on the updated Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE), prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, completed by GeoEstima, with an effective date of April 1st, 2024, as presented below. It should be noted that Mineral Resources, which are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. This update reflects not only those resources assumed to be mined in the PEA but also other defined resources within the greater MDN property. Estimation of depleted satellite Mineral Resources was validated by Cerrado's Qualified Persons ("QPs"), as defined in NI 43-10, keeping estimation parameters from the previous technical report (SRK 2020), and using updated drilling data bases and constraining pit shells. Mineral Resources The following table shows our estimates of Mineral Resources prepared with an effective date of April 01, 2024 (except as indicated below). Grade Values Metal Content Mine Classification Tonnage Au Ag Au Ag kt g/t g/t k oz k oz Calandrias Sur (Open pit) Measured 5,192.24 0.91 17.07 151.32 2,849.04 Indicated 7,642.16 1.02 14.16 249.40 3,479.94 M+I 12,834.40 0.97 15.34 400.72 6,328.98 Inferred 2,261.42 0.62 3.32 44.99 241.64 Calandrias Norte (Open Pit) Measured 8.12 18.66 25.98 4.87 6.78 Indicated 70.67 14.52 22.79 32.98 51.79 M+I 78.79 14.94 23.12 37.85 58.57 Inferred 10.58 10.69 12.17 3.64 4.14 Zorro (Open pit) Measured 69.09 2.15 8.74 4.78 19.42 Indicated 136.50 1.32 7.38 5.80 32.39 M+I 205.59 1.60 7.84 10.58 51.81 Inferred 120.88 0.81 6.38 3.16 24.79 Depleted Satellites (Open Pit) Measured 29.91 2.04 0.00 1.96 0.00 Indicated 14.99 1.80 0.00 0.87 0.00 M+I 44.90 1.96 0.00 2.83 0.00 Inferred 1,117.03 1.62 1.72 58.14 61.62 Paloma Trend (Underground) Measured 128.86 4.73 18.98 19.58 78.62 Indicated 145.96 4.00 15.97 18.78 74.94 M+I 274.82 4.34 17.38 38.36 153.56 Inferred 88.91 3.93 13.15 11.22 37.58 Total Measured 5,428.22 1.05 16.93 182.52 2,953.87 Indicated 8,010.27 1.20 14.13 307.82 3,639.05 M+I 13,438.50 1.13 15.26 490.34 6,592.92 Inferred 3,598.83 1.05 3.20 121.15 369.77 Stockpiles 4 Measured 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Indicated 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 M+I 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Inferred 951.74 0.54 2.05 16.57 62.58 Notes: Included in economic evaluation Not included in economic evaluation Satellites include Armadillo, Baritina, Baritina NE, Cerro Oro, Coyote, Choique, Mara, and Trofeu 4 Include the stocks from: Armadillo, Cerro Oro, Coyote, Choique, and Mara. Notes to Mineral Resources Table Mineral Resource estimates were prepared by the May 10, 2014 edition of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (or CIM) Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves ("2014 CIM Definition Standards") and disclosed in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Minerals Project ("NI 43-101"). The Qualified Persons for the estimation of Mineral Resources are Calandrias Sur, Calandrias Norte, Zorro, Paloma Trend and Stockpiles - Orlando Rojas, P.Geo, Member AIG, a GeoEstima SpA employee and Armadillo, Baritina, Baritina NE, Cerro Oro, Coyote, Choique, Mara and Trofeu - Sergio Gelcich, P.Geo, MAusIMM (CP) Geo, Vice President, Exploration, a Cerrado Gold employee. Mineral Resources have an effective date as of: (a) April 1st, 2024, for Calandrias Sur, Calandrias Norte, Zorro, Paloma Trend, Armadillo, Baritina, Baritina NE, Cerro Oro, Coyote, Choique, and Trofeu; (b) August 31st, 2020, for Mara satellite. Mineral Resources estimated using an average long-term metal price of US$2,100.0/oz of Au and US$25.0/oz of Ag. For Mara satellite, an average long-term metal price of US$1,550.0/oz of Au is considered, assuming a mining cost of US$2.65/t, plant cost of US$32.0/t, and selling costs of US$127.0/t. Recoveries depend on the type of host mineralization and the extraction method being utilized for the minerals. For the carbon-in-leach (CIL) process, Au recovery is based on historical metallurgical recovery, which is 90% for Au and 61% for silver. For the Heap Leach process (HL), Au recovery is based on metallurgical test works and depends on the zone. Au recovery is 70% in the Oxide zone, 60% in the Transitional zone, and 40% in the Primary zone. The silver recovery is 30% in all zones. Mineral Resources in open pit are reported within pit shell constrain and above a cut-off grade: Calandrias Sur has a variable cut-off - 0.27 g/t Au for the Oxided zone, 0.31 g/t Au for the Transition zone and 0.46 g/t Au for Primary zone; Calandrias Norte - 1.46 g/t Au; Zorro, Armadillo, Baritina, Baritina NE, Cerro Oro, Coyote, Choique, Mara and Trofeu - 0.3 g/t Au. In Paloma Trend, Mineral Resources are reported within a cut-off grade of 1.95 g/t for underground mining shapes. A minimum mining width of 1.5m was used for resource shapes. The estimated costs are: Calandrias Sur - plant cost of US$11.08/t; Calandrias Norte - plant cost of US$78.33/t; Zorro - plant cost varying from US$ 13.35 for HL process and US$ 68.20 for CIL process; Depleted Satellite - plant cost of US$40.0/t. The selling costs of US$242.90/t and mining costs of US$3.50/t was assumed for all open pit costs of US$3.50/t was assumed for all open pit were assumed for all open-pit mining. For underground shapes, the mining costs are US$40.0/t, plant costs are US$65.0/t and selling costs are US$242.9/t. The exchange rate considered is ARG 917.25 / 1 USD. Density was assigned and interpolated based on specific gravity values by domain. Numbers may not be added due to rounding. Project Summary The Minera Don Nicolas operation is a gold mining operation located in the province of Santa Cruz, Argentina. MDN is located in the prolific Deseado Masiff with exploration rights over 330K Ha. The operations commenced in 2019 as an open pit CIL operation with mineralized material produced from deposits in the Paloma and Martinetas regions which are mostly depleted of ready to mine resources. In 2023, MDN added a heap leach operation to process the mineralized material from Calandrias Sur open pit. The PEA is focused on the development and mining of the high grade Calandrias Norte open pit to be processed through the existing 1,000 tpd CIL plant until late 2024 and the ongoing operations and expansion of the Calandrias Sur heap leach operations until at least 2028. In addition, the PEA has envisaged the development of an initial small scale underground mining operation upon which future underground exploration is expected to extend the mine life; and the processing of low grade mined material in the Martinetas area from several stockpiles. Figure 1. Project Location Geology MDN property includes several deposit styles all within the epithermal clan that defines the Deseado Massif province, including: Low sulphidation sheeted and single vein systems: Martinetas Intermediate sulphidation veins and vein/breccias: Paloma Dome hosted bulk veins/stockworks and breccias: Calandrias North (HG) and Calandrias South (LG) Figure 2. Location of MDN mineral deposits Mining Mining is primarily aimed to exploit the Calandrias Norte high grade deposit and the Calandrias Sur low grade, heap leach, deposit. In addition, a modest underground mine based solely on currently known resources in the Paloma Trend and the smaller Zorro open pit near Martinetas are planned to add additional material for the CIL processing plant. The mine design is based on using standard open pit mining techniques of drill, blast and haul using a fleet of its own and rented mining equipment mining fleet to reduce capital needs. Mineralized material from Calandrias Norte is trucked to the CIL plant near the historical Martinetas mining operations for proceeding while material from the Calandrias Sur pit is crushed and placed on the leach pad in close proximity to the mining operations. The gold loaded carbon from the heap leach operations will be transported to the gold recovery circuit at the Martinetas site. Once processing of the Calandrias Norte and any additional high-grade material is completed, the CIL plant is to be placed on Care and Maintenance until mineralized material from the proposed underground mine becomes available in 2026 after underground development has been completed. Once this material is processed the CIL plant will once again be placed on Care and Maintenance until sufficient new sources of mineralized material have been upgraded to support ongoing mining operations which are expected from future exploration activities. This potential is currently excluded from the PEA mine plan. Gold Production from Mining Area Figure 3. Calandrias complex infrastructure and mineral deposits. Figure 4. Martinetas complex infrastructure and mineral deposits Metallurgy and Processing As outlined in the technical report, the metallurgical test work supports the recovery of gold by CIL process for the Calandrias Norte deposit and via heap leaching for the Calandrias Sur deposit. Gold recovery rates for Calandrias Sur varies by mineralized material type (oxide, transition and primary) from 35-70% with silver recovery of approximately 30%. Gold recovery of the higher-grade material from Calandrias Norte is targeted at 90% with silver recoveries of 61%, in line with historical averages. Infrastructure All infrastructure is already available on site with the exception of the expansion of the crushing capacity at Calandrias Sur used to double capacity. As noted, mineralized material from Calandrias Norte will be trucked and processed via the existing 1,000 tpd milling operations at Martinetas while crushing capacity at Calandrias Sur is in the processed of being doubled to over 10,000 tpd to support the higher production rates from late 2024 onward. A new mobile 250 tph crusher has recently been delivered to site and is in the process of being commissioned to commence ramp up in the coming weeks. Capital Costs No additional upfront capital costs are anticipated given the construction of the heap leaching pad and extraction circuit was completed in 2023 and pre stripping of Calandrias Norte was completed in early 2024. Remaining capital expenditures are to be funded from cash flow for the expansion of the crushing circuit at Calandrias Sur including pad expansions (US$7.1 MM), underground development (US$27.3 MM and US$6.5MM in additional drilling and studies) which began in 2024. Sustaining capital is estimated at $1.8 million per year. A closure cost of US$7 Million has been estimated beginning in 2030 with major costs in the first 3 years after closure and ongoing monitoring costs extending for a total period of 10 years after closure. Operating Costs The LOM mine operating costs are estimated at a total of US$4/t of ROM material moved in in the open pit and US$50/t for the underground, and processing costs depend on the processing method applied and range from $7.20/t for heap leach material and approximately $65/t when processed via the CIL plant. G&A costs are estimated at approximately US$3 million per annum. Operating costs have been benchmarked against the current operating costs and metallurgical performance. Gold Production Profile and AISC cost profile The chart below highlights the expected production and cash cost/ AISC profile at MDN as per the PEA. Production in expected to average 55,869 GEO over the five year mine life with LOM AISC will average US$1,146 per year. The PEA outlines gold production from April onwards and excludes the production of 10,982 ozs of gold in Q1/24. A total of 15,938 oz of gold were produced in Q2/24. Figure 5. Production Profile and AISC Overall Project Economics The overall project shows potentially robust economic results with an after-tax NPV at a 5% discount rate of US$111 million at a flat gold price of $2,100/oz and Ag price of US$25/oz. Project economics are based on a potential 5 year mine life, with immediate positive after-tax cash flow commencing as at 1 April 2024. Total cumulative, after-tax free cash flow over the life of mine is estimated at US$122 million (US$25 million per annum) at a $2,100/oz gold price. At Spot prices of US$2,400/oz of gold and US$29/oz of silver the project results with an after tax NPV at a 5% discount rate of US$153 million and average after-tax free cash flow is estimated at US$35 million per annum. Figure 6. After-Tax Free Cash Flow Upside Opportunities - Exploration Activities The current PEA only considers known, easily exploitable resources and does not reflect the potential from ongoing exploration programs. In the near term the operations are focused on four initial high value target areas as noted below. Underground Expansion in Paloma Region - Underground exploration is targeted to grow known resources from future underground exploration activities at Sulfuro and in the Sulfuro Est zones once development starts. Newly designed underground exploration ramps will allow efficient drilling targeting extensions and parallel structures of the current inventory included in the PEA. Goleta The Goleta high grade under cover target is located approximately 7 km from Martinetas. Mineralization on surface is related to mineralized fragments of banded quartz veins (up to 1.g m in diameter) within presumably phreatic breccia. The exploration premise is that these large clasts are proximal to a primary source (high grade quartz vein system) located below the breccia. This concept is similar to the Marianas vein discovery in the Cerro Negro deposit (Newmont) also located in the Cerrado Massif. Calandria North - The deposit is open to the Southwest following the plunge that controls the high-grade Mineralization. This target represents a potential low capital Underground development, making use of the current infrastructure in the area Paula Andrea - Extensive exploration carried out last year outlined several areas with the potential of hosting high grade mineralization like the mined out Chulengo and Baritina pits. The are includes phreato-magmatic breccia hosted mineralization and extensional jogs along fertile structures. Other Targets - In addition to the targets listed above numerous other targets are known on the projects such as the Chispas targets which is located along strike from the recently defined Naty deposit on the neighboring Cerro Moro operation (Pan American Silver). Various lower grade heap leach targets also remain to be more fully defined, notably the depleted resources reported for some of the mined Martinetas pits, which need to be evaluated further for extensions and viability of hybrid CIL and HL processing. Technical Disclosure The reader is advised that the PEA summarized in this press release is intended to provide only an initial, high-level review of the project potential and design options. The PEA mine plan and economic model include numerous assumptions and the use of Inferred Mineral Resources, and are preliminary in nature. Inferred Mineral Resources are considered to be too geologically speculative to have mining and to be used in an economic analysis except as allowed for by National Instrument 43-101 in PEA studies. There is no guarantee the project economics described herein will be achieved. Cerrado Gold Inc. will publish a Technical Report prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 within 45 days that documents the PEA study and supports the current disclosure. Independent Qualified Persons Orlando Rojas, Javier Pizarro and Cristian Quezada are the Qualified Persons as defined in NI 43-101 responsible for the Technical Report and are all independent of the Company. About GeoEstima GeoEstima, based in Santiago, Chile, has a consolidated experience spanning over a decade. Is a specialized consulting firm in economic geology, geometallurgy, and mining, dedicated to providing services to the global minerals industry. Our mission is to offer top-tier advisory and consultancy services to clients, delivering comprehensive solutions developed by a highly experienced team deeply committed to their work. The GeoEstima team comprises seventeen distinguished professionals, 41% of whom are women. Of these, 75% are highly qualified geologists, and 60% hold at least a master's degree in their respective fields. Furthermore, over half of the team members boast at least ten years of hands-on experience. At GeoEstima, we blend the extensive experience of our seasoned professionals with the innovative mindset of emerging talents embarking on their careers. The result is a dynamic and collaborative team that fosters innovation and continuous growth. GeoEstima brings expertise across various areas spanning the entire mining business chain, including exploration, mine planning, mineral resource/reserve assessments, geometallurgy, strategic business planning, mining operations, financial evaluations, and exploration. Specifically, we provide guidance and consultancy in economic geology and strategic mining planning for exploration, mining, and engineering companies, as well as for acquisitions, mining planning, and control. About Cerrado Cerrado Gold is a Toronto-based gold production, development, and exploration company focused on gold projects in South America. The Company is the 100% owner of both the producing Minera Don Nicolas and Las Calandrias mine in Santa Cruz province, Argentina, and the highly prospective Monte Do Carmo development project, located in Tocantins State, Brazil. In Canada, Cerrado Gold is developing it's 100% owned Mont Sorcier Iron Ore and Vanadium project located outside of Chibougamou, Quebec. In Argentina, Cerrado is maximizing asset value at its Minera Don Nicolas operation through continued operational optimization and is growing production through its operations at the Las Calandrias Heap Leach project. An extensive campaign of exploration is ongoing to further unlock potential resources in our highly prospective land package in the heart of the Deseado Masiff. In Canada, Cerrado holds a 100% interest in the Mont Sorcier Iron Ore and Vanadium project, which has the potential to produce a premium iron ore concentrate over a long mine life at low operating costs and low capital intensity. Furthermore, its high grade and high purity product facilitates the migration of steel producers from blast furnaces to electric arc furnaces, contributing to the decarbonization of the industry and the achievement of SDG goals. For more information about Cerrado, please visit our website at: www.cerradogold.com Mark Brennan CEO and Chairman Mike McAllister Vice President, Investor Relations Tel: +1-647-805-5662 mmcallister@cerradogold.com Cautionary Statement on Mineral Resource Estimates All Mineral Resource estimates of the Company disclosed or referenced in this news release have been prepared in accordance with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves dated May 10, 2014 ("2014 CIM Definition Standards"), whose definitions are incorporated by reference in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"): Mineral resource: is a concentration or occurrence of material of economic interest in or on the Earth's crust in such form, grade or quality, and quantity that there are reasonable prospects for economic extraction. A mineral resource is a reasonable estimate of mineralization, taking into account relevant factors such as cut-off grade, likely mining dimensions, location or continuity, that, with the assumed and justifiable technical and economic conditions, is likely to, in whole or in part, become economically extractable. Inferred mineral resource: is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality can be estimated on the basis of geological evidence and limited sampling and reasonably assumed, but not verified, geological and grade continuity. The estimate is based on limited information and sampling gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes. An inferred mineral resource has a lower level of confidence than that applying to an indicated mineral resource and must not be converted to a mineral reserve. It is reasonably expected that the majority of inferred mineral resources could be upgraded to indicated mineral resources with continued exploration. Indicated mineral resource: that part of a mineral resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics can be estimated with a level of confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough for geological and grade continuity to be reasonably assumed. An indicated mineral resource has a lower level of confidence than that applying to a measured mineral resource and may only be converted to a probable mineral reserve. Measured mineral resource: that part of a mineral resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics are so well established that they can be estimated with confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters to support production planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough to confirm both geological and grade continuity. A measured mineral resource has a higher level of confidence than that applying to either an indicated mineral resource or an inferred mineral resource. It may be converted to a proven mineral reserve or to a probable mineral reserve. Disclaimer NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. This press release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding the business and operations of Cerrado, estimates of resources, mineralized material, future business and exploration and mine and or plant development or expansion plans, estimates of market conditions and value, and commencement of operations. In making the forward- looking statements contained in this press release, Cerrado has made certain assumptions. Although Cerrado believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release. Except as required by law, Cerrado disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise. SOURCE: Cerrado Gold Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com Chief Executive Jonathan Gear to Step Down as CEO and Member of the Board LONDON, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Clarivate Plc (NYSE: CLVT), a leading global provider of transformative intelligence, today announced that the Board has appointed Matti Shem Tov, former CEO of ProQuest, as the Company's next CEO, effective August 9, 2024. Mr. Shem Tov will also join the Company's Board of Directors. Jonathan Gear, Chief Executive Officer, will step down as CEO and as a member of the Board at that time, and will transition into a non-executive role until November 1, 2024. "The Board and Jonathan have mutually agreed that now is the right time for new leadership who can help take Clarivate to the next phase of its value creation journey," said Andy Snyder, Chairman of the Clarivate Board. "I want to thank Jonathan for his many contributions to the Company. Under his leadership, Clarivate restructured into three end-market segments, which reinvigorated Clarivate's product innovation investments and commitment to its customers, added terrific talent to the leadership bench, and helped strengthen the Company's balance sheet. As a result, Clarivate is now well positioned to utilize the distinct expertise within each of our business segments to deliver exceptional and tailored solutions to our customers globally. With this foundation and the investments we are making in product innovation, we are confident in our ability to drive organic growth." Mr. Snyder continued, "I am also pleased to welcome Matti back to Clarivate, where he will leverage his deep expertise in innovating and delivering new products to market to help launch Clarivate in its new phase of accelerated organic growth. Given Matti's decades of leadership experience, the Board and I are confident that he is well suited to partner with our exceptional management team to lead Clarivate." "I am pleased to join Clarivate as its next CEO," said Mr. Shem Tov. "I have a tremendous amount of respect for Clarivate's businesses and its mission of advancing innovation through research and knowledge sharing to solve the world's most complex challenges. I am looking forward to working closely with our committed global colleagues and loyal customers to accelerate growth, increase product innovation and drive value creation for all our stakeholders." "It has been a privilege to lead this dedicated and passionate team, and I am proud of what we have achieved together," Mr. Gear said. "The Company has made strong progress managing and integrating its portfolio of businesses while supporting the needs of customers and partners. After thorough discussions with the Board, it's clear that this is the right time to make this transition. I am confident that Clarivate has a strong future ahead and I look forward to supporting the Company in my upcoming non-executive role." Mr. Shem Tov's appointment follows a process led by the Board of Directors and supported by Heidrick & Struggles, a leading global executive search firm. Separately, Clarivate today reported results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024. Clarivate will host a conference call and webcast today at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time to review the results for the second quarter and discuss the announced leadership changes. About Matti Shem Tov Matti Shem Tov has over 30 years of global leadership experience with deep expertise in software, data, and analytics, as well as in driving innovation and growth. From June 2022 until March 2024, Mr. Shem Tov served as an operating partner at Lone View Capital, a private equity firm. Prior to that, Mr. Shem Tov served as Chief Executive Officer of ProQuest LLC ("ProQuest"), a provider of global data, analytics and software, to academic, research and national institutions, from September 2017 to June 2022, including for a period following Clarivate's acquisition of ProQuest in December 2021. From 2003 until 2017, Mr. Shem Tov served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Ex Libris Ltd., leading the company to become a prominent developer of cloud-based software solutions for academic, national and research institutions worldwide. Prior to joining Ex Libris, Mr. Shem Tov served as President of Surecomp Limited, a global software company specializing in commercial banking solutions, after serving in various leadership roles across the company. Mr. Shem Tov received his Bachelor of Arts and his Master of Business Administration from Bar-Ilan University. About Clarivate Clarivate is a leading global provider of transformative intelligence. We offer enriched data, insights & analytics, workflow solutions and expert services in the areas of Academia & Government, Intellectual Property and Life Sciences & Healthcare. For more information, please visit www.clarivate.com Forward-Looking Statements This communication contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements, which express management's current views concerning future business, events, trends, contingencies, financial performance, or financial condition, appear at various places in this communication and may use words like "aim," "anticipate," "assume," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "future," "goal," "intend," "likely," "may," "might," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "see," "seek," "should," "strategy," "strive," "target," "will," and "would" and similar expressions, and variations or negatives of these words. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on management's current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy, and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include those factors discussed under the caption "Risk Factors" in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K, along with our other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). However, those factors should not be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. Additional risks and uncertainties not known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business operations. Forward-looking statements are based only on information currently available to our management and speak only as of the date of this communication. We do not assume any obligation to publicly provide revisions or updates to any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as otherwise required by securities and other applicable laws. Please consult our public filings with the SEC or on our website at www.clarivate.com. Investor Contact: Mark Donohue, Head of Investor Relations? investor.relations@clarivate.com 215-243-2202 Media Contact: Amy Bourke-Waite, Senior Director, Corporate Communications newsroom@clarivate.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1159266/Clarivate_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/clarivate-appoints-former-proquest-ceo-matti-shem-tov-as-the-companys-next-ceo-302215350.html OXFORD, England, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Unipart, the supply chain solutions and performance improvement technologies partner, is pleased to announce it has acquired Formaplex Technologies, a lightweight components manufacturer serving customers in the automotive, aerospace, motorsport and healthcare sectors. Formaplex Technologies was established two decades ago as a specialist tooling partner in the F1 automotive sector. Today it has grown to become a key UK supplier of polymer and composite solutions and one of the few premium polymer injection moulding specialists in the UK supply chain, specialising in lightweight components. Customers include McLaren, who are fully supportive of this acquisition and remain committed to working with the business in the future. Unipart will integrate the operations into its existing manufacturing capability portfolio, ensuring continuity and maintaining the high operational and safety standards both companies deliver. From today, Formaplex will be rebranded to Unipart Polymer and Composite Solutions. Darren Leigh, Unipart Chief Executive Officer , said: "Growing our manufacturing capabilities through this acquisition expands our offering and aligns perfectly with Unipart's growth strategy to offer our existing and new customers a breadth of supply chain solutions and performance improvement technologies. It reinforces our commitment to enhancing and growing the UK supply chain. "I am pleased to welcome the Formaplex team to Unipart and excited about the potential this acquisition unlocks for innovation and growth, enabling us to expand our portfolio and strengthen our position in the UK manufacturing sector." Jorg Laser, Chief Procurement Officer at McLaren , said: "We strongly value our long-term supply relationship with Formaplex and we welcome the specialist capabilities that Unipart, a long-standing partner of McLaren, now brings to enhancing this relationship. We are excited to see the innovative solutions and continued excellence that this combination will deliver for us." Carol Rose Burke, Unipart Manufacturing Group Managing Director , said: "I am delighted we are further investing in our UK manufacturing capabilities through the acquisition of Formaplex. It will further support supply chains involved in delivering powertrain products used for internal combustion engines and electrification, as well as enhancing our offer for a growing number of uses in various other sectors such as construction and rail." Contact: Katy Farrington, Media and CEO Communications Manager Mobile: 07920 586592 Email: katy.farrington@unipart.com Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2476256/Unipart_VoyagerPark.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2382356/4846192/Unipart_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/unipart-expands-uk-manufacturing-capabilities-through-acquisition-of-formaplex-technologies-302215391.html TrustFinance, a platform for reviewing Forex brokers and financial companies, proudly announces IUX as the "Best Trading Broker" at the TrustFinance Awards 2024. This prestigious award underscores IUX's commitment to innovation, excellence, and exceptional customer satisfaction in the highly competitive online trading industry. TrustFinance's recognition of IUX as the "Best Trading Broker" is a testament to the broker's pursuit of delivering top-notch trading services, cutting-edge technology, and a customer-centric approach. This accolade further solidifies IUX's position as a leader in the online trading sector. Since its inception, IUX has been at the forefront of providing traders with a comprehensive suite of financial instruments. Over the last couple of years, IUX has consistently demonstrated its industry prowess, earning accolades that reflect its commitment to reliability and innovation. Starting in 2022, IUX received the "Most Reliable Broker" award, followed by the "Innovative Forex Platform" in 2023, culminating in 2024 with "Best Trading Broker." These awards highlight IUX's ongoing efforts to enhance its platform and services, striving to meet and exceed the evolving needs of traders globally. IUX's dedication to its clients is reflected in its impressive TrustScore of 4.85 out of 5 from over 2,218 user reviews on the TrustFinance platform. This score underscores the high customer satisfaction and IUX's support, setting a benchmark for service excellence in the financial services industry. The company leverages advanced technological and analytical tools to ensure that its platform is user-friendly and enables traders to navigate the markets effectively and confidently. The award from TrustFinance underscores IUX's commitment to maintaining high standards and continually enhancing the trading experience. The TrustFinance Awards 2024 celebrate the achievements of companies that have excelled in their respective fields, highlighting their contributions to the financial industry. IUX's recognition as the "Best Trading Broker" reflects the company's dedication to setting industry standards and exceeding customer expectations. As IUX continues to build on its successes, the recognition from TrustFinance is a motivation to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the financial trading space. With plans to introduce even more innovative solutions and a commitment to customer satisfaction, IUX aims to lead the market in future years. Please visit their website for more information about TrustFinance and the TrustFinance Awards 2024. About TrustFinance: TrustFinance is a platform that reviews Forex brokers and financial companies. It provides information on over 180,000 financial institutions based on real user reviews. The platform offers features such as company comparisons, regulations, and a protection centre to help consumers make informed decisions. By verifying reviews and providing reliable, accurate information, TrustFinance aims to build trust and inspire collaboration in the financial sector. About IUX: IUX is an online trading platform offering a range of financial instruments, including currencies, stocks, indices, crypto, and commodities. The platform provides features such as low spreads starting from 0.0 pips, high leverage up to 3000:1, fast market execution, and various trading tools. Whether the user is new to trading or an experienced pro, the platform has innovative tools and resources to support their journey and achieve their financial goals through seamless and accessible online trading experiences. Media Contact Organization: TrustFinance Contact Person Name: Peter Bu, CEO of TrustFinance Website: https://www.trustfinance.com/en-Us Email: b2b@trustfinance.com Country: Singapore SOURCE: TrustFinance View the original press release on accesswire.com SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global agrochemicals industry is anticipated to witness an upward growth curve between the years 2024 and 2030, as per the market intelligence reports published by Grand View Research. Some of the prominent factors driving this growth are the rising global demand for fertilizers, the need for maintenance and protection of crops in varied climatic conditions, the increased adoption of precision farming practices, and the increasing demand for food for the ever-increasing global population. Concurrently, however, considering their potential harm to consumers and the environment, synthetic agrochemicals are witnessing increasing regulatory scrutiny by governments, regulatory bodies, and environmental organizations worldwide. In addition, the increasing preference for organic alternatives globally may also hinder the market growth of the global agrochemicals industry. Following is a list of markets that are driving growth for the agrochemicals industry: The global agricultural adjuvants market was estimated at USD 3.80 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2024 to 2030. The market growth is attributed to the increasing demand for crop protection products in agricultural fields, as approximately 25% of the world's crop output is lost yearly due to diseases and attacks by pests and weeds. Pesticide consumption is also expected to drive market growth, as most adjuvants are used in pesticides. The agricultural biologicals market size was estimated at USD 7.13 billion in 2023 globally, and it is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.4% from 2024 to 2030. The rising demand for organically cultivated food products is projected to be a key driving factor for market growth. Agricultural biologicals help protect plants against pests and are increasingly becoming an integral part of modern farming practices. Global biochar market size was estimated at USD 541.8 million in 2023 and is projected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.9% from 2024 to 2030. Increasing product consumption in producing organic food and its ability to enhance soil fertility & plant growth are expected to be key factors driving market growth. The biofertilizers market size was valued at USD 1.66 billion in 2023 globally and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.3% from 2024 to 2030. The increasing usage of microbes in biofertilizers proves the potential for sustainable farming methods and food safety. The increasing concern with respect to food safety is expected to drive the market for biofertilizers over the forecast period. Global biological seed treatment market size was estimated at USD 1.28 billion in 2022 and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.4% from 2023 to 2030. The surging demand for chemical-free crops is expected to drive the growth of the industry over the forecast period. A shift in consumer trends toward the improvement of personal health and consumption of healthy food is also likely to fuel the product demand. The global biostimulants market size was estimated at USD 2.6 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is attributed to the rising demand for the product from various end-use applications such as seed, soil, and foliar treatment. Biostimulants are fertilizers that are created organically and are used to nourish agricultural products as well as to promote plant growth and production. The crop protection chemicals market size was valued at USD 43.24 billion in 2022 globally and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is attributed to the increasing need for food security due to the rising global population along with increasing awareness of crop protection for healthy yields. The agricultural industry is driven by the rising demand for food due to the increasing population, this is likely to propel the growth of the product market during the forecast period. Global nitric acid market size was estimated at USD 29.8 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.4% from 2023 to 2030. The growth for the product is expected to be driven by increasing demand for the product from fertilizer formulators and by rising consumption of fertilizers in agrarian economies of the world. The worldwide nitrogenous fertilizer market size was valued at USD 57.2 billion in 2021 and is expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% in terms of revenue from 2022 to 2030. The growth is attributed to the increasing popularity of agriculture on a commercial level across the world. There has been a rising demand for nitrogenous fertilizers from the agriculture industry for providing appropriate nutrition to the various food crops, thereby improving their yield. The global phosphoric acid market was valued at USD 41.26 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% from 2023 to 2040. Phosphoric acid is mainly used to produce phosphate fertilizers, such as Mono-Ammonium Phosphate (MAP) and Diammonium Phosphate (DAP), which is expected to drive market growth over the forecast period. The rodenticides market size was valued at USD 5.27 billion in 2022 globally and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6% from 2023 to 2030. Factors such as the increasing prevalence of pest-related diseases, a surging rodent population, rising demand for pest control, and the availability of natural rodenticides are likely to be major drivers of market growth. The global white oil market size was valued at USD 2.0 billion in 2021 and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% from 2022 to 2030. The demand for the product is anticipated to be driven by the growth in the personal care and pharmaceutical industries. Globally, rising product demand from medicinal and cosmetics applications is expected to be a major driver for the market growth. About Grand View Research Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research Helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead. Explore Horizon Databook - The world's most expansive market intelligence platform developed by Grand View Research. Gain insights from 1 million+ statistics, 20,000+ markets, and 5 business solutions encompassing ESG and Sustainability Consulting, Procurement Intelligence, Pricing Index and analysis, and Consume Analytics. Contact: Sherry James Corporate Sales Specialist, USA Grand View Research, Inc. Phone: 1-415-349-0058 Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519 Email: sales@grandviewresearch.com Web: https://www.grandviewresearch.com Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/661327/Grand_View_Research_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/global-agrochemicals-industry-poised-for-lucrative-growth-by-the-year-2030-grand-view-research-inc-302215372.html CHICAGO, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Integrated Visual Augmentation System Market is valued at USD 1.0 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 1.7 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 11.1% from 2024 to 2029 according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The Integrated Visual Augmentation System deals with enhancing military prowess by advanced augmented reality and mixed reality technologies. IVAS systems enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency by integration of cutting-edge visual interfaces and real-time data into the military training and combat environment. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=264968355 Browse in-depth TOC on "Integrated Visual Augmentation System Market" 293 - Tables 72 - Figures 265 - Pages Integrated Visual Augmentation System Market Report Scope: Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2024 $ 1.0 billion Estimated Value by 2029 $ 1.7 billion Growth Rate Poised to grow at a CAGR of 11.1% Market Size Available for 2020-2029 Forecast Period 2024-2029 Forecast Units Value (USD Million/Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By End-User, Product, Technology, Application and Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of World Key Market Challenge Governments Regulations and Standards Key Market Opportunities Advanced Training Capabilities for Complex Battlefields Key Market Drivers Need of transformation in traditional military capabilities for the new era The Integrated Visual Augmentation System deals with enhancing military prowess by advanced augmented reality and mixed reality technologies. IVAS systems enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency by integration of cutting-edge visual interfaces and real-time data into the military training and combat environment. The key market players are Lockheed Martin Corporation (US), Elbit Systems, Ltd. (Israel), RTX (US), BAE Systems (UK), and Microsoft (US), thus pushing the market through innovations tailored for defense applications. Military modernization, rapid technological transformation, and huge investments by governments are some of the factors fueling the growth of the IVAS market since these vision systems enhance the realism in training and interoperability in network-centric warfare. Based on the end-user, the air force segment is estimated to hold the highest market share during the forecast period. Based on the end-user, the air force segment is estimated to lead the Integrated Visual Augmentation System Market from 2024 to 2029 These are now increasing due to the levelling effects and restricted access of commercial technologies. Commercial communications will always be less secure than the latest, most secure communications required by air forces to defend their national airspace and to assure superiority in their operations. Increasingly, these are collaborative. The integration of real-time data and situational awareness in the helmet visor enables pilots to make fast, high-quality decisions. This improves tactical advantage and pilot safety in high-tech, fast-paced aerial combat environments. The need for advanced, reliable, and integrated combat systems drives the development of sophisticated solutions like Striker II, which meets the evolving demands of modern aerial warfare and contested airspaces. These factors collectively drive the development and deployment of IVAS like helmet-mounted display, growing the global market for air force. Based on product, the helmet mounted display segment is estimated to hold the highest market share during the forecast period. Based on product, the helmet mounted display segment is estimated to hold the highest market share during the forecast period. The adoption and development of helmet-mounted displays (HMDs) are driven by several key factors across both military and civilian sectors. Enhanced situation awareness is important, and HMDs provide real-time, critical information directly in the line of sight, thus improving decision-making capabilities. Innumerable technologies, such as display technologies, sensor capabilities, miniaturization, etc., have undergone extensive development. Yet another important reason for their growth is that HMDs enable hands-free operations in situations where hand-operated activities are impossible or risky. They can be fitted into many other systems, including night vision, thermal imaging, and augmented reality, which improve their operational value. Besides, HMDs bring efficiency in operations through the smooth flow of critical information, thus becoming very effective in combat and complicated navigation situations. They record advanced training tools that provide simulation in a real environment that lets the trainee train and be better prepared. Inquiry Before Buying: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=264968355 Based on regions, the North America accounts for largest market share in Integrated Visual Augmentation System Market. Based on region the North America Market is estimated to account for largest market share during the forecast period. North America is experiencing significant growth in the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) industry. This is supported by significant investments that the United States Department of Defense has made in military modernization and advanced technologies, especially in areas such as enhancing soldier lethality and situational awareness through AR and MR technologies. Another reason is the presence of leading technology companies like RTX Corporation, Microsoft recounted with large contracts by the U.S. Army for developing and fielding IVAS technologies that sealed its leadership in the region. These will ensure that each troop is equipped with state-of-the-art systems in real-time intelligence and operation capabilities, ensuring that North America does not get left behind in time by staying at the forefront of innovation in the military technology field concerning IVAS. Key Players The Integrated Visual Augmentation System Companies is dominated by a few globally established players such as Lockheed Martin Corporation (US), Elbit Systems, Ltd. (Israel), RTX (US), BAE Systems (UK), and Microsoft (US). Get 10% Free Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=264968355 Browse Adjacent Market: Aerospace and Defence Market Research Reports & Consulting Related Reports: Autonomous Navigation Market by Solution (Hardware (Sensing Systems, Processing Units), and Software (AI)), Platform (Airborne (Autonomous Aircraft, Autonomous Drones), Land, Marine, Space, Weapons), Application, and Region - Global Forecast to 2028 Combat Management System Market by Sub-System (Self-Defense, Situational Awareness, Track Management, Identification, Unmanned Vehicle), Component (Hardware, Software), Platform (Destroyers, Submarines, Frigates, Corvettes) and Region - Global Forecast to 2022 About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients. Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Contact: Mr. Rohan Salgarkar MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Visit Our Web Site: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/integrated-visual-augmentation-system-companies.asp Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/integrated-visual-augmentation-system.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1951202/4609423/MarketsandMarkets.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/integrated-visual-augmentation-system-market-worth-1-7-billion-by-2029---exclusive-report-by-marketsandmarkets-302215168.html by Ashutosh Jogalekar How do we regulate a revolutionary new technology with great potential for harm and good? A 380-year-old polemic provides guidance. In 1644, John Milton sat down to give a speech to the English parliament arguing in favor of the unlicensed printing of books and against a proposed bill to restrict their contents. Published as Areopagitica, Miltons speech became one of the most brilliant defenses of free expression. Milton rightly recognized the great potential books had and the dangers of smothering that potential before they were published. He did not mince words: For books are not absolutely dead things, but do preserve as in a vial the purest efficacy and extraction of that living intellect that bred them. I know they are as lively, and as vigorously productive, as those fabulous Dragons teeth; and being sown up and down, may chance to spring up armed men.Yet on the other hand unless wariness be used, as good almost kill a Man as kill a good Book; who kills a Man kills a reasonable creature, Gods Image; but he who destroys a good Book, kills reason itself, kills the Image of God, as it were in the eye. Many a man lives a burden to the Earth; but a good Book is the precious life-blood of a master-spirit, embalmed and treasured up on purpose to a life beyond life. Apart from stifling free expression, the fundamental problem of regulation as Milton presciently recognized is that the good effects of any technology cannot be cleanly separated from the bad effects; every technology is what we call dual-use. Referring back all the way to Genesis and original sin, Milton said: Good and evil we know in the field of this world grow up together almost inseparably; and the knowledge of good is so involved and interwoven with the knowledge of evil, and in so many cunning resemblances hardly to be discerned, that those confused seeds which were imposed upon Psyche as an incessant labour to cull out, and sort asunder, were not intermixed. It was from out the rind of one apple tasted, that the knowledge of good and evil, as two twins cleaving together, leaped forth into the world. In important ways, Areopagitica is a blueprint for controlling potentially destructive modern technologies. Freeman Dyson applied the argument to propose commonsense legislation in the field of recombinant DNA technology. And today, I think, the argument applies cogently to AI. AI is such a new technology that its benefits and harms are largely unknown and hard to distinguish from each other. In some cases the distinction is clear. For instance, image recognition can be used for all kinds of useful applications ranging from weather assessment to cancer cell analysis, but it can be and is used for surveillance. In that case, it is not possible to separate out the good from the bad even when we know what they are. But more importantly, as the technology of image recognition AI demonstrates, it is impossible to know what exactly AI will be used for unless theres an opportunity to see some real-world applications of it. Restricting AI before these applications are known will almost certainly ensure that the good applications are stamped out. It is in the context of Areopagitica and the inherent difficulty of regulating a technology before its potential is unknown that I find myself concerned about some of the new government regulation which is being proposed for regulating AI, especially California Bill SB-1047 which has already passed the state Senate and has made its way to the Assembly, with a proposed decision date at the end of this month. The bill proposes commonsense measures for AI, such as more transparent cost-accounting and documentation. But it also imposes what seem like arbitrary restrictions on AI models. For instance, it would require regulation and paperwork for models which cost $100 million or more per training run. While this regulation will exempt companies which run cheaper models, the problem in fact runs the other way: nothing stops cheaper models from being used for nefarious purposes. Lets take a concrete example: in the field of chemical synthesis, AI models are increasingly used to do what is called retrosynthesis, which is to virtually break down a complex molecule into its constituent building blocks and raw materials (as a simple example, a breakdown of sodium chloride into sodium and chlorine would be retrosynthesis). One can use retrosynthesis algorithms to find out the cheapest or the most environmentally friendly route to a target molecule like a drug, a pesticide or an energy material. And run in reverse, you can use the algorithm for forward planning, predicting based on building blocks what the resulting target molecule would look like. But nothing stops the algorithm from doing the same analysis on a nerve gas or a paralytic or an explosive; its the same science and the same code. Importantly, much of this analysis is now available in the form of laptop computer software which enables the models to be trained on datasets of millions of data points: small potatoes in the world of AI. Almost none of these models cost anywhere close to $100 million, which puts their use in the hands of small businesses, graduate students and if and when they choose to use them malicious state and non-state actors. Thus, restricting AI regulation to expensive models might exempt smaller actors, but its precisely that fact that would enable these small actors to use the technology to bad ends. On the other hand, critics are also right that it would effectively price out the good small actors since they would not be able to afford the legal paperwork that the bigger corporations can. The arbitrary cap of $100 million therefore does not seem to address the root of the problem. The same issue applies to another restriction which is also part of the European AI regulation, which is limiting the calculation speed to 1026 flops. Using the same example of the AI retrosynthesis models, it is easy to argue that such models can be run for far less computing power and would still produce useful results. What then is the correct way to regulate AI technology? Quite apart from the details, one thing that is clear is that we should be able to experiment a bit, run laboratory-scale models and at least try to probe the boundaries of potential risks before we decide to stifle this or that model or rein in computing power. Once again Milton echoes such sentiments. As a 17th century intellectual it would have been a long shot for him to call for the completely free dissemination of knowledge; he must well have been aware of the blood that had been shed in religious conflicts in Europe during his time. Instead, he proposed that there could be some checks and restrictions on books, but only after they had been published: If then the Order shall not be vain and frustrate, behold a new labour, Lords and Commons, ye must repeal and proscribe all scandalous and unlicensed books already printed and divulged; after ye have drawn them up into a list, that all may know which are condemned, and which not. Thus, Milton was arguing that books should not be stifled at the time of their creation; instead, they should be stifled at the time of their use if the censors saw a need. The creation vs use distinction is a sensible one when thinking about regulating AI as well. But even that distinction doesnt completely address the issue, since the uses of AI technology are myriad, and most of them are going to be beneficial and intrinsically dual-use. Even regulating the uses of AI thus would entail interfering in many aspects of AI development and deployment. And what about the legal and commercial paperwork, the extensive regulatory framework and the army of bureaucrats that would be needed to enforce this legislation? The problem with legislation is that it is easy for it to overstep boundaries, to be on a slippery slope and gradually elbow its way into all kinds of things for which it wasnt originally intended, exceeding its original mandate. Milton shrewdly recognized this overreach when he asked what else besides printing might be up for regulation: If we think to regulate printing, thereby to rectify manners, we must regulate all recreations and pastimes, all that is delightful to man. No music must be heard, no song be set or sung, but what is grave and Doric. There must be licensing dancers, that no gesture, motion, or deportment be taught our youth but what by their allowance shall be thought honest; for such Plato was provided of; it will ask more than the work of twenty licensers to examine all the lutes, the violins, and the guitars in every house; they must not be suffered to prattle as they do, but must be licensed what they may say. And who shall silence all the airs and madrigals that whisper softness in chambers? The windows also, and the balconies must be thought on; there are shrewd books, with dangerous frontispieces, set to sale; who shall prohibit them, shall twenty licensers? This passage shows that not only was John Milton a great writer and polemicist, but he also had a fine sense of humor. Areopagitica shows us that if we are to confront the problem of AI legislation, we must do it not just with good sense but with a recognition of the absurdities which too much regulation may bring. The proponents of AI who fear the many problems it might create are well-meaning, but they are unduly adhering to the Precautionary Principle. The Precautionary Principles says that its sensible to regulate something when its risks are not known. I would like to suggest that we replace the Precautionary Principle with a principle I call The Adventure Principle. The Adventure Principle says that we should embrace risks rather than running away from them because of the benefits which exploration brings. Without the Adventure Principle, Columbus, Cook, Heyerdahl and Armstrong would never have set sail into the great unknown and Edison, Jobs, Gates and Musk would never embark on big technological projects. Just like with AI, these explorers faced a significant risk of death and destruction, but they understood that with immense risks come immense benefits, and by the rational light of science and calculation, they thought there was a good chance that the risks could be managed. They were right. Ultimately there is no foolproof pre-release legislation or restriction that would purely stop the bad use of models while still enabling their good use. Miltons Areopagitica does not tell us what the right legislation for regulating AI would look like, although it provides hints based on regulation of use rather than creation. But it makes a resounding case for the problems that such legislation may create. Regulating AI before we have a chance to see what it can do would be like imprisoning a child before he grows up into a young man. Perhaps a better approach would be the one Faraday adopted when Gladstone purportedly asked him what the use of electricity was: Someday you may tax it, was Faradays response. Some say that the potential risks from AI are too great to allow for such a liberal approach. But the potential risks from almost any groundbreaking technology developed in the last few hundred decades printing, electricity, fossil fuels, automobiles, nuclear energy, gene editing are no different. The premature regulation of AI would prevent us from unleashing its potential to confront our most pressing challenges. When humanity is then grasping with its last-ditch efforts to prevent its own extinction because of known problems, a recognition of the irony of smothering AI because of a fear of unknown problems would come too late to save us. CLEVELAND, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- TransDigm Group Incorporated (NYSE: TDG), a leading global designer, producer and supplier of highly engineered aircraft components, today reported results for the third quarter ended June 29, 2024. Third quarter highlights include: Net sales of $2,046 million, up 17% from $1,744 million in the prior year's quarter; Net income of $461 million, up 31% from the prior year's quarter; Earnings per share of $7.96, up 30% from the prior year's quarter; EBITDA As Defined of $1,091 million, up 19% from $915 million in the prior year's quarter; EBITDA As Defined margin of 53.3%; Adjusted earnings per share of $9.00, up 24% from $7.25 in the prior year's quarter; and Upward revision to fiscal 2024 financial guidance to reflect TransDigm's continued strong performance as well as to include the recent acquisitions of SEI Industries, the CPI Electron Device Business and Raptor Scientific. Quarter-to-Date Results Net sales for the quarter increased 17.3%, or $302 million, to $2,046 million from $1,744 million in the comparable quarter a year ago. Organic sales growth as a percentage of net sales was 14.6%. Net income for the quarter increased $109 million, or 31.0%, to $461 million from $352 million in the comparable quarter a year ago. The increase in net income primarily reflects the increase in net sales described above and the application of our value-driven operating strategy. The increase was partially offset by higher interest expense, income tax expense, and acquisition transaction-related expenses. Adjusted net income for the quarter increased 25.8% to $521 million, or $9.00 per share, from $414 million, or $7.25 per share, in the comparable quarter a year ago. EBITDA for the quarter increased 19.9% to $995 million from $830 million for the comparable quarter a year ago. EBITDA As Defined for the quarter increased 19.2% to $1,091 million compared with $915 million in the comparable quarter a year ago. EBITDA As Defined as a percentage of net sales for the quarter was 53.3% compared with 52.5% in the comparable quarter a year ago. "I am incredibly pleased with the operating results for the third quarter and our continued strong performance," stated Kevin Stein, TransDigm Group's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Total revenue for the quarter ran ahead of our expectations, and revenues sequentially improved in all three of our major market channels - commercial OEM, commercial aftermarket and defense. Our EBITDA As Defined margin improved to 53.3% for the quarter, up approximately 80 basis points from the comparable prior year period. Excluding the results related to SEI Industries and the CPI Electron Device Business, acquired in May and June 2024, respectively, our third quarter EBITDA As Defined margin was approximately 53.6%. As always, we remain focused on our operating strategy, value drivers and effectively managing our cost structure. Additionally, we are excited to have recently closed the acquisitions of SEI Industries, the CPI Electron Device Business and Raptor Scientific. In the aggregate for these three acquisitions, we have deployed over $2.2 billion of capital in the past three months. These businesses fit well with our long-standing strategy, and we expect each of these acquisitions to create equity value in-line with our long-term private equity-like return objectives." Acquisition Activities As previously reported on May 22, 2024, TransDigm completed the acquisition of SEI Industries LTD ("SEI"). SEI is a leading provider of highly engineered products for aerial firefighting and other liquid transportation solutions, such as remote refueling. Their innovative and world renowned Bambi Bucket, is a proprietary collapsible firefighting bucket used across the globe to combat forest fires, among other applications. Additionally, on June 6, 2024, TransDigm completed the acquisition of the Electron Device Business of Communications & Power Industries ("CPI"). The CPI Electron Device Business is a leading global manufacturer of electronic components and subsystems primarily serving the aerospace and defense market. Subsequent to the quarter, on July 31, 2024, TransDigm completed the acquisition of Raptor Scientific. Raptor Scientific is a leading global manufacturer of complex test and measurement solutions primarily serving the aerospace and defense end markets. Financing Activities During the quarter, on June 4, 2024, TransDigm successfully repriced the existing approximately $997 million Tranche J term loans maturing February 28, 2031, to bear interest at Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") plus 2.50% compared to Term SOFR plus 3.25% applicable prior to the repricing. Additionally, TransDigm amended and extended $2,644 million of existing Tranche I term loans maturing August 24, 2028, and converted such loans into Tranche J term loans maturing February 28, 2031. Year-to-Date Results Net sales for the thirty-nine week period ended June 29, 2024 increased 21.6%, or $1,021 million, to $5,754 million from $4,733 million in the comparable period a year ago. Organic sales growth as a percentage of net sales for the thirty-nine week period ended June 29, 2024 was 17.7%. Net income for the thirty-nine week period ended June 29, 2024 increased $363 million, or 41.0%, to $1,248 million from $885 million in the comparable period a year ago. The increase in net income primarily reflects the increase in net sales described above and the application of our value-driven operating strategy. The increase was partially offset by higher income tax expense, interest expense, non-cash stock and deferred compensation expense, acquisition transaction-related expenses, and one-time refinancing costs. GAAP earnings per share were reduced in fiscal 2024 and 2023 by $1.75 per share and $0.67 per share, respectively, as a result of dividend equivalent payments made during each year. As a reminder, GAAP earnings per share are reduced when TransDigm makes dividend equivalent payments pursuant to its stock option plans. These dividend equivalent payments are made during TransDigm's first fiscal quarter each year and also upon payment of any special dividends. Adjusted net income for the thirty-nine week period ended June 29, 2024 increased 37.3% to $1,396 million, or $24.15 per share, from $1,017 million, or $17.80 per share, in the comparable period a year ago. EBITDA for the thirty-nine week period ended June 29, 2024 increased 23.9% to $2,772 million from $2,237 million for the comparable period a year ago. EBITDA As Defined for the period increased 24.3% to $3,023 million compared with $2,432 million in the comparable period a year ago. EBITDA As Defined as a percentage of net sales for the period was 52.5% compared with 51.4% in the comparable period a year ago. Please see the attached tables for a reconciliation of net income to EBITDA, EBITDA As Defined, and adjusted net income; a reconciliation of net cash provided by operating activities to EBITDA and EBITDA As Defined; and a reconciliation of earnings per share to adjusted earnings per share for the periods discussed in this press release. Fiscal 2024 Outlook Mr. Stein stated, "We are raising our full year guidance primarily to reflect our strong third quarter results and current expectations for the remainder of the fiscal year, as well as to include the recent acquisitions of SEI Industries, the CPI Electron Device Business and Raptor Scientific. We are pleased to once more raise our guidance for fiscal 2024 and to see further progression in our primary end markets." TransDigm now expects fiscal 2024 financial guidance to be as follows: Net sales are anticipated to be in the range of $7,870 million to $7,930 million compared with $6,585 million in fiscal 2023, an increase of 20.0% at the midpoint (an increase of $160 million at the midpoint from prior guidance); Net income is anticipated to be in the range of $1,632 million to $1,678 million compared with $1,299 million in fiscal 2023, an increase of 27.4% at the midpoint (an increase of $8 million at the midpoint from prior guidance); Earnings per share is expected to be in the range of $26.47 to $27.27 per share based upon weighted average shares outstanding of 57.85 million shares, compared with $22.03 per share in fiscal 2023, which is an increase of 22.0% at the midpoint (an increase of $0.14 per share at the midpoint from prior guidance); EBITDA As Defined is anticipated to be in the range of $4,100 million to $4,160 million compared with $3,395 million in fiscal 2023, an increase of 21.6% at the midpoint (an increase of $85 million at the midpoint from prior guidance and corresponding to an EBITDA As Defined margin guide of approximately 52.3% for fiscal 2024); Adjusted earnings per share is expected to be in the range of $32.62 to $33.42 per share compared with $25.84 per share in fiscal 2023, an increase of 27.8% at the midpoint (an increase of $0.60 per share at the midpoint from prior guidance); and Fiscal 2024 outlook is based on the following market growth assumptions: Commercial OEM revenue growth around 20%; Commercial aftermarket revenue growth in the mid-teens percentage range; and Defense revenue growth in the high-teens percentage range. Please see the attached Table 6 for a reconciliation of EBITDA, EBITDA As Defined to net income and reported earnings per share to adjusted earnings per share guidance midpoint estimated for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. Additionally, please see attached Table 7 for comparison of the current fiscal year 2024 guidance versus the previously issued fiscal year 2024 guidance. Earnings Conference Call TransDigm Group will host a conference call for investors and security analysts on August 6, 2024, beginning at 11:00 a.m., Eastern Time. To join the call telephonically, please register for the call at https://register.vevent.com/register/BI33561ee603c24a548ff2010aa7d54671 . Once registered, participants will receive the dial-in information and a unique pin to access the call. The dial-in information and unique pin will be sent to the email used to register for the call. The unique pin is exclusive to the registrant and can only be used by one person at a time. A live audio webcast of the call can also be accessed online at http://www.transdigm.com. A slide presentation will also be available for reference during the conference call; go to the investor relations page of our website and click on "Presentations." The call will be archived on the website and available for replay at approximately 2:00 p.m., Eastern Time. About TransDigm Group TransDigm Group, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, is a leading global designer, producer and supplier of highly engineered aircraft components for use on nearly all commercial and military aircraft in service today. Major product offerings, substantially all of which are ultimately provided to end-users in the aerospace industry, include mechanical/electro-mechanical actuators and controls, ignition systems and engine technology, specialized pumps and valves, power conditioning devices, specialized AC/DC electric motors and generators, batteries and chargers, engineered latching and locking devices, engineered rods, engineered connectors and elastomer sealing solutions, databus and power controls, cockpit security components and systems, specialized and advanced cockpit displays, engineered audio, radio and antenna systems, specialized lavatory components, seat belts and safety restraints, engineered and customized interior surfaces and related components, advanced sensor products, switches and relay panels, thermal protection and insulation, lighting and control technology, parachutes, high performance hoists, winches and lifting devices, and cargo loading, handling and delivery systems, specialized flight, wind tunnel and jet engine testing services and equipment, and electronic components used in the generation, amplification, transmission and reception of microwave signals. Non-GAAP Supplemental Information EBITDA, EBITDA As Defined, EBITDA As Defined margin, adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per share are non-GAAP financial measures presented in this press release as supplemental disclosures to net income and reported results. TransDigm Group defines EBITDA as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and defines EBITDA As Defined as EBITDA plus certain non-operating items recorded as corporate expenses, including non-cash compensation charges incurred in connection with TransDigm Group's stock incentive or deferred compensation plans, foreign currency gains and losses, acquisition-integration costs, acquisition transaction-related expenses, and refinancing costs. Acquisition-related costs represent accounting adjustments to inventory associated with acquisitions of businesses and product lines that were charged to cost of sales when the inventory was sold; costs incurred to integrate acquired businesses and product lines into the Company's operations, facility relocation costs and other acquisition-related costs; transaction-related costs for both acquisitions and divestitures comprising deal fees; legal, financial and tax diligence expenses and valuation costs that are required to be expensed as incurred and other acquisition accounting adjustments. TransDigm Group defines adjusted net income as net income plus purchase accounting backlog amortization expense, effects from the sale on businesses, non-cash compensation charges incurred in connection with TransDigm Group's stock incentive or deferred compensation plans, foreign currency gains and losses, acquisition-integration costs, acquisition transaction-related expenses, and refinancing costs. EBITDA As Defined margin represents EBITDA As Defined as a percentage of net sales. TransDigm Group defines adjusted diluted earnings per share as adjusted net income divided by the total outstanding shares for basic and diluted earnings per share. For more information regarding the computation of EBITDA, EBITDA As Defined, adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per share, please see the attached financial tables. TransDigm Group presents these non-GAAP financial measures because it believes that they are useful indicators of its operating performance. TransDigm Group believes that EBITDA is useful to investors because it is frequently used by securities analysts, investors and other interested parties to measure operating performance among companies with different capital structures, effective tax rates and tax attributes, capitalized asset values and employee compensation structures, all of which can vary substantially from company to company. In addition, analysts, rating agencies and others use EBITDA to evaluate a company's ability to incur and service debt. EBITDA As Defined is used to measure TransDigm Inc.'s compliance with the financial covenant contained in its credit facility. TransDigm Group's management also uses EBITDA As Defined to review and assess its operating performance, to prepare its annual budget and financial projections and to review and evaluate its management team in connection with employee incentive programs. Moreover, TransDigm Group's management uses EBITDA As Defined to evaluate acquisitions and as a liquidity measure. In addition, TransDigm Group's management uses adjusted net income as a measure of comparable operating performance between time periods and among companies as it is reflective of changes in pricing decisions, cost controls and other factors that affect operating performance. None of EBITDA, EBITDA As Defined, EBITDA As Defined margin, adjusted net income or adjusted earnings per share is a measurement of financial performance under U.S. GAAP and such financial measures should not be considered as an alternative to net income, operating income, earnings per share, cash flows from operating activities or other measures of performance determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP. In addition, TransDigm Group's calculation of these non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to the calculation of similarly titled measures reported by other companies. Although we use EBITDA and EBITDA As Defined as measures to assess the performance of our business and for the other purposes set forth above, the use of these non-GAAP financial measures as analytical tools has limitations, and you should not consider any of them in isolation, or as a substitute for analysis of our results of operations as reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Some of these limitations are: neither EBITDA nor EBITDA As Defined reflects the significant interest expense, or the cash requirements, necessary to service interest payments on our indebtedness; although depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges, the assets being depreciated and amortized will often have to be replaced in the future, and neither EBITDA nor EBITDA As Defined reflects any cash requirements for such replacements; the omission of the substantial amortization expense associated with our intangible assets further limits the usefulness of EBITDA and EBITDA As Defined; neither EBITDA nor EBITDA As Defined includes the payment of taxes, which is a necessary element of our operations; and EBITDA As Defined excludes the cash expense we have incurred to integrate acquired businesses into our operations, which is a necessary element of certain of our acquisitions. Forward-Looking Statements Statements in this press release that are not historical facts, including statements under the heading "Fiscal 2024 Outlook," are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "believe," "may," "will," "should," "expect," "intend," "plan," "predict," "anticipate," "estimate," or "continue" and other words and terms of similar meaning may identify forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause TransDigm Group's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, TransDigm Group. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: the sensitivity of our business to the number of flight hours that our customers' planes spend aloft and our customers' profitability, both of which are affected by general economic conditions; supply chain constraints; increases in raw material costs, taxes and labor costs that cannot be recovered in product pricing; failure to complete or successfully integrate acquisitions; our indebtedness; current and future geopolitical or other worldwide events, including, without limitation, wars or conflicts and public health crises; cybersecurity threats; risks related to the transition or physical impacts of climate change and other natural disasters or meeting sustainability-related voluntary goals or regulatory requirements; our reliance on certain customers; the United States ("U.S.") defense budget and risks associated with being a government supplier including government audits and investigations; failure to maintain government or industry approvals; risks related to changes in laws and regulations, including increases in compliance costs; potential environmental liabilities; liabilities arising in connection with litigation; risks and costs associated with our international sales and operations; and other factors. Further information regarding the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from projected results can be found in TransDigm Group's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other reports that TransDigm Group or its subsidiaries have filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as required by law, TransDigm Group undertakes no obligation to revise or update the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Contact: Investor Relations 216-706-2945 ir@transdigm.com TRANSDIGM GROUP INCORPORATED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME FOR THE THIRTEEN AND THIRTY-NINE WEEK PERIODS ENDED Table 1 JUNE 29, 2024 AND JULY 1, 2023 (Amounts in millions, except per share amounts) (Unaudited) Thirteen Week Periods Ended Thirty-Nine Week Periods Ended June 29, 2024 July 1, 2023 June 29, 2024 July 1, 2023 NET SALES $ 2,046 $ 1,744 $ 5,754 $ 4,733 COST OF SALES 826 715 2,341 1,983 GROSS PROFIT 1,220 1,029 3,413 2,750 SELLING AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES 248 209 715 578 AMORTIZATION OF INTANGIBLE ASSETS 38 37 110 105 INCOME FROM OPERATIONS 934 783 2,588 2,067 INTEREST EXPENSE-NET 316 291 943 872 REFINANCING COSTS 30 32 59 41 OTHER INCOME (14) (9) (24) (12) INCOME FROM OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES 602 469 1,610 1,166 INCOME TAX PROVISION 141 117 362 281 NET INCOME 461 352 1,248 885 LESS: NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS - (1) (2) (2) NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO TD GROUP $ 461 $ 351 $ 1,246 $ 883 NET INCOME APPLICABLE TO TD GROUP COMMON STOCKHOLDERS $ 461 $ 351 $ 1,145 $ 845 Earnings per share attributable to TD Group common stockholders: Basic and diluted $ 7.96 $ 6.14 $ 19.81 $ 14.80 Cash dividends declared per common share $ - $ - $ 35.00 $ - Weighted-average shares outstanding: Basic and diluted 57.9 57.2 57.8 57.1 TRANSDIGM GROUP INCORPORATED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION - RECONCILIATION OF EBITDA, EBITDA AS DEFINED TO NET INCOME FOR THE THIRTEEN AND THIRTY-NINE WEEK PERIODS ENDED Table 2 JUNE 29, 2024 AND JULY 1, 2023 (Amounts in millions, except per share amounts) (Unaudited) Thirteen Week Periods Ended Thirty-Nine Week Periods Ended June 29, 2024 July 1, 2023 June 29, 2024 July 1, 2023 Net Income $ 461 $ 352 $ 1,248 $ 885 Adjustments: Depreciation and amortization expense 77 70 219 199 Interest expense-net 316 291 943 872 Income tax provision 141 117 362 281 EBITDA 995 830 2,772 2,237 Adjustments: Acquisition transaction-related expenses and adjustments (1) 27 6 43 12 Non-cash stock and deferred compensation expense (2) 47 53 158 131 Refinancing costs (3) 30 32 59 41 Other, net (4) (8) (6) (9) 11 Gross Adjustments to EBITDA 96 85 251 195 EBITDA As Defined $ 1,091 $ 915 $ 3,023 $ 2,432 EBITDA As Defined, Margin (5) 53.3 % 52.5 % 52.5 % 51.4 % (1) Represents accounting adjustments to inventory associated with acquisitions of businesses and product lines that were charged to cost of sales when inventory was sold; costs incurred to integrate acquired businesses and product lines into TD Group's operations, facility relocation costs and other acquisition-related costs; transaction-related costs for acquisitions comprising deal fees, legal, financial and tax due diligence expenses, and valuation costs that are required to be expensed as incurred. (2) Represents the compensation expense recognized by TD Group under our stock incentive plans and deferred compensation plans. (3) Represents costs expensed related to debt financing activities, including new issuances, extinguishments, refinancings and amendments to existing agreements. (4) Primarily represents foreign currency transaction (gains) or losses, payroll withholding taxes related to dividend equivalent payments and stock option exercises, non-service related pension costs, deferred compensation payments and other miscellaneous (income) expense. (5) The EBITDA As Defined margin represents the amount of EBITDA As Defined as a percentage of net sales. TRANSDIGM GROUP INCORPORATED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION - RECONCILIATION OF REPORTED EARNINGS PER SHARE TO ADJUSTED EARNINGS PER SHARE FOR THE THIRTEEN AND THIRTY-NINE WEEK PERIODS ENDED Table 3 JUNE 29, 2024 AND JULY 1, 2023 (Amounts in millions, except per share amounts) (Unaudited) Thirteen Week Periods Ended Thirty-Nine Week Periods Ended June 29, 2024 July 1, 2023 June 29, 2024 July 1, 2023 Reported Earnings Per Share Net income $ 461 $ 352 $ 1,248 $ 885 Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests - (1) (2) (2) Net income attributable to TD Group 461 351 1,246 883 Less: Dividends paid on participating securities - - (101) (38) Net income applicable to TD Group common stockholders-basic and diluted $ 461 $ 351 $ 1,145 $ 845 Weighted-average shares outstanding under the two- class method Weighted-average common shares outstanding 56.0 55.0 55.7 54.7 Vested options deemed participating securities 1.9 2.2 2.1 2.4 Total shares for basic and diluted earnings per share 57.9 57.2 57.8 57.1 Earnings per share-basic and diluted $ 7.96 $ 6.14 $ 19.81 $ 14.80 Adjusted Earnings Per Share Net income $ 461 $ 352 $ 1,248 $ 885 Gross Adjustments to EBITDA 96 85 251 195 Purchase accounting backlog amortization 2 2 5 4 Tax adjustment (1) (38) (25) (108) (67) Adjusted net income $ 521 $ 414 $ 1,396 $ 1,017 Adjusted diluted earnings per share under the two-class method $ 9.00 $ 7.25 $ 24.15 $ 17.80 Diluted Earnings Per Share to Adjusted Earnings Per Share Diluted earnings per share from net income attributable to TD Group $ 7.96 $ 6.14 $ 19.81 $ 14.80 Adjustments to diluted earnings per share: Inclusion of the dividend equivalent payments - - 1.75 0.67 Acquisition transaction-related expenses and adjustments 0.36 0.10 0.61 0.20 Non-cash stock and deferred compensation expense 0.61 0.70 2.05 1.71 Refinancing costs 0.39 0.42 0.76 0.54 Tax adjustment on income from operations before taxes (1) (0.23) (0.05) (0.75) (0.28) Other, net (0.09) (0.06) (0.08) 0.16 Adjusted earnings per share $ 9.00 $ 7.25 $ 24.15 $ 17.80 (1) For the thirteen and thirty-nine week periods ended June 29, 2024 and July 1, 2023, the Tax adjustment represents the tax effect of the adjustments at the applicable effective tax rate, as well as the impact on the effective tax rate when excluding the excess tax benefits on stock option exercises. Stock compensation expense is excluded from adjusted net income and therefore we have excluded the impact that the excess tax benefits on stock option exercises have on the effective tax rate for determining adjusted net income. TRANSDIGM GROUP INCORPORATED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION - RECONCILIATION OF NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES TO EBITDA, EBITDA AS DEFINED FOR THE THIRTY-NINE WEEK PERIODS ENDED Table 4 JUNE 29, 2024 AND JULY 1, 2023 (Amounts in millions) (Unaudited) Thirty-Nine Week Periods Ended June 29, 2024 July 1, 2023 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 1,473 $ 913 Adjustments: Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects from acquisitions and sales of businesses 218 345 Interest expense-net (1) 912 842 Income tax provision-current 362 282 Loss contract amortization 24 27 Non-cash stock and deferred compensation expense (2) (158) (131) Refinancing costs (3) (59) (41) EBITDA 2,772 2,237 Adjustments: Acquisition transaction-related expenses and adjustments (4) 43 12 Non-cash stock and deferred compensation expense (2) 158 131 Refinancing costs (3) 59 41 Other, net (5) (9) 11 EBITDA As Defined $ 3,023 $ 2,432 (1) Represents interest expense, net of interest income, excluding the amortization of debt issuance costs and premium and discount on debt. (2) Represents the compensation expense recognized by TD Group under our stock incentive plans and deferred compensation plans. (3) Represents costs expensed related to debt financing activities, including new issuances, extinguishments, refinancings and amendments to existing agreements. (4) Represents accounting adjustments to inventory associated with acquisitions of businesses and product lines that were charged to cost of sales when inventory was sold; costs incurred to integrate acquired businesses and product lines into TD Group's operations, facility relocation costs and other acquisition-related costs; transaction-related costs for acquisitions comprising deal fees, legal, financial and tax due diligence expenses, and valuation costs that are required to be expensed as incurred. (5) Primarily represents foreign currency transaction (gains) or losses, payroll withholding taxes related to dividend equivalent payments and stock option exercises, non-service related pension costs, deferred compensation payments and other miscellaneous (income) expense. TRANSDIGM GROUP INCORPORATED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION - BALANCE SHEET DATA Table 5 (Amounts in millions) (Unaudited) June 29, 2024 September 30, 2023 Cash and cash equivalents $ 3,360 $ 3,472 Trade accounts receivable-Net 1,300 1,230 Inventories-Net 1,878 1,616 Current portion of long-term debt 78 71 Short-term borrowings-trade receivable securitization facility 450 349 Accounts payable 320 305 Accrued and other current liabilities 1,003 854 Long-term debt 21,364 19,330 Total TD Group stockholders' deficit (2,518) (1,984) TRANSDIGM GROUP INCORPORATED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION - RECONCILIATION OF EBITDA, EBITDA AS DEFINED TO NET INCOME AND REPORTED EARNINGS PER SHARE TO ADJUSTED EARNINGS PER SHARE GUIDANCE MIDPOINT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2024 Table 6 (Amounts in millions, except per share amounts) (Unaudited) GUIDANCE MIDPOINT Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024 Net Income $ 1,655 Adjustments: Depreciation and amortization expense 302 Interest expense-net 1,290 Income tax provision 552 EBITDA 3,799 Adjustments: Acquisition transaction-related expenses and adjustments (1) 63 Non-cash stock and deferred compensation expense (1) 210 Refinancing costs (1) 59 Other, net (1) (1) Gross Adjustments to EBITDA 331 EBITDA As Defined $ 4,130 EBITDA As Defined Margin (1) 52.3 % Earnings per share $ 26.87 Adjustments to earnings per share: Inclusion of the dividend equivalent payments 1.75 Non-cash stock and deferred compensation expense 2.73 Acquisition transaction-related expenses and adjustments 0.92 Refinancing costs 0.76 Other, net (0.01) Adjusted earnings per share $ 33.02 Weighted-average shares outstanding 57.85 (1) Refer to Table 2 above for definitions of Non-GAAP measurement adjustments. TRANSDIGM GROUP INCORPORATED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION CURRENT FISCAL YEAR 2024 GUIDANCE VERSUS PRIOR FISCAL YEAR 2024 GUIDANCE Table 7 (Amounts in millions, except per share amounts) (Unaudited) Current Fiscal Year 2024 Guidance Issued August 6, 2024 Prior Fiscal Year 2024 Guidance Issued May 7, 2024 Change at Midpoint Net Sales $7,870 to $7,930 $7,680 to $7,800 $160 GAAP Net Income $1,632 to $1,678 $1,608 to $1,686 $8 GAAP Earnings Per Share $26.47 to $27.27 $26.06 to $27.40 $0.14 EBITDA As Defined 4,100 to $4,160 $3,995 to $4,095 $85 Adjusted Earnings Per Share $32.62 to $33.42 $31.75 to $33.09 $0.60 Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding 57.85 57.85 - Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/835315/4844807/TransDigm_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/transdigm-group-reports-fiscal-2024-third-quarter-results-302215401.html NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Innovid Corp. (NYSE:CTV) (the "Company"), an independent software platform for the creation, delivery, measurement, and optimization of advertising across connected TV (CTV), linear TV, and digital, today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024. "I am pleased to report Innovid delivered another quarter of double-digit, profitable revenue growth," said Zvika Netter, Co-Founder and CEO. "Since the beginning of 2024, we have made momentous progress, including the launch of our strategic Harmony Initiative and new partnerships with leading players in the market. We continue to invest significantly in strategic innovation for the future of CTV, while also delivering Adjusted EBITDA margin expansion." Second Quarter 2024 Financial Summary Revenue increased to $38.0 million, reflecting year-over-year growth of 10%, compared to $34.5 million for the same period in 2023. Net loss was $10.5 million, compared to a net loss of $19.0 million for the same period in 2023, an $8.5 million improvement year-over-year. Adjusted EBITDA* grew to $5.9 million, an increase of 29% year-over-year, compared to $4.5 million for the same period in 2023, representing a 15.5% Adjusted EBITDA margin.* Operating cash flow was $1.2 million, compared to $0.6 million for the same period in 2023. Free cash flow* use of cash was $1.3 million, compared to use of cash of $2.0 million for the same period in 2023, a $0.7 million improvement year-over-year. Recent Business Highlights Innovid launched Harmony Frequency, the first holistic frequency management solution for CTV and digital advertising, with Yahoo DSP as a launch partner. Innovid announced today a collaboration with Nielsen with the intent to provide a seamless workflow solution and holistic view of the cross-media ads universe. The integration aims to bring Innovid's ad serving infrastructure together with Nielsen ONE to simplify and improve ad measurement. Goodway Group and Vizio recently joined the Harmony initiative, alongside previously announced partners Roku, PMG, Assembly, and CMI Media Group. Recent new client wins and product expansions with leading advertisers and publishers such as Spectrum, WNBA, Eli Lilly, Lundbeck, Purple Innovation, Habit Burger, and The Wonderful Company. CTV impression volume from ad serving and personalization increased 21% year-over-year, while Mobile video impressions from ad serving and personalization grew by 13% year-over-year, and desktop impressions from ad serving and personalization decreased by 9% year-over-year. Innovid joined the broad-market Russell 3000 Index during the 2024 Russell US Indexes annual reconstitution. Financial Outlook Innovid is providing the following financial guidance for Q3 and reiterating full year 2024 guidance: Q3 2024 revenue in a range between $40 million and $42 million, reflecting year-over-year growth between 10% and 16%. Q3 2024 Adjusted EBITDA* in a range between $6.5 million and $8.5 million. FY 2024 revenue in a range between $156 million and $163 million, representing annual growth between 11% and 16%. FY 2024 Adjusted EBITDA* in a range between $24 million and $29 million. *See non-GAAP financial measures and reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP tables. Conference Call The Company will host a conference call and webcast to discuss second quarter 2024 financial results today at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. Hosting the call will be Zvika Netter, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer and Anthony Callini, Chief Financial Officer. The conference call will be available via webcast at investors.innovid.com. To participate via telephone, please dial (+1) 877-407-3211 (toll free) or (+1) 201-389-0862 (toll-free international). Following the call, a replay of the webcast will be available for 90 days on the Innovid Investor Relations website. Non-GAAP Financial Measures This press release contains non-GAAP financial measures under the rules of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. This non-GAAP information supplements and is not intended to represent a measure of performance in accordance with disclosures required by generally accepted accounting principles. Non-GAAP financial measures are used internally as measures of operational efficiency to understand and evaluate our core business operations, as well as comparisons to peers as similar measures are frequently used by securities analysts, investors, ratings agencies and other interested parties to evaluate businesses in our industry. Accordingly, Innovid believes it is useful for investors and others to review both GAAP and non-GAAP measures in order for (a) period-to-period comparisons of our core business, (b) comparisons to peers as similar measures are frequently used by securities analysts, investors, ratings agencies and other interested parties to evaluate businesses in our industry, and (c) providing an understanding and evaluation of our trends when comparing our operating results, on a consistent basis, by excluding items that we do not believe are indicative of our core operating performance. However, these non-GAAP financial measures should not take the place of GAAP financial measures in evaluating our business. The primary limitations associated with the use of non-GAAP financial measures are that these measures may not be directly comparable to the amounts reported by other companies and they do not include all items of income and expense that affect operations. Innovid management compensates for these limitations by considering the company's financial results and outlook as determined in accordance with GAAP and by providing a detailed reconciliation of the non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures in the tables attached to this press release. We are not able to provide a reconciliation of the projected Adjusted EBITDA to expected net (loss) income attributable to Innovid for the second quarter of 2024 or the full year of 2024, without unreasonable effort. This is due to the unknown effect, timing, and potential significance of the effects of taxes on income in multiple jurisdictions, finance (income)/expenses including valuations, among others. These items have in the past, and may in the future, significantly affect GAAP results in a particular period. Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1996. The Company's actual results may differ from its expectations, estimates, and projections and consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Words such as "expect," "estimate," "project," "budget," "forecast," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "may," "will," "could," "should," "believes," "predicts," "potential," "continue," "aim," and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the Company's expectations regarding its future financial results, expected growth, and future market opportunity. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from the expected results, including Innovid's ability to achieve and, if achieved, maintain profitability, decrease and/or changes in CTV audience viewership behavior, Innovid's failure to make the right investment decisions or to innovate and develop new solutions, inaccurate estimates or projections of future financial performance, Innovid's failure to manage growth effectively, the dependence of Innovid's revenues and business on the overall demand for advertising and a limited number of advertising agencies and advertisers, the actual or potential impacts of international conflicts and humanitarian crises on global markets, the rejection of digital advertising by consumers, future restrictions on Innovid's ability to collect, use and disclose data, market pressure resulting in a reduction of Innovid's revenues per impression, Innovid's failure to adequately scale its platform infrastructure, exposure to fines and liability if advertisers, publishers and data providers do not obtain necessary and requisite consents from consumers for Innovid to process their personal data, competition for employee talent, seasonal fluctuations in advertising activity, payment-related risks, interruptions or delays in services from third parties, errors, defects, or unintended performance problems in Innovid's platform, intense market competition, failure to comply with the terms of third party open source components, changes in tax laws or tax rulings, failure to maintain an effective system of internal controls over financial reporting, failure to comply with data privacy and data protection laws, infringement of third party intellectual property rights, difficulty in enforcing Innovid's own intellectual property rights, system failures, security breaches or cyberattacks, additional financing if required may not be available, the volatility of the price of Innovid's common stock and warrants, and other important factors discussed under the caption "Risk Factors" in Innovid's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commissions ("SEC") on February 29, 2024, as such factors may be updated from time to time in its other filings with the SEC, accessible on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov and the Investors Relations section of Innovid's website at investors.innovid.com. You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described in the documents filed by the Company from time to time with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Most of these factors are outside the Company's control and are difficult to predict. The Company cautions not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, including projections, which speak only as of the date made. The Company does not undertake or accept any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. About Innovid Innovid (NYSE:CTV) is an independent software platform for the creation, delivery, measurement, and optimization of advertising across connected TV (CTV), linear, and digital. Through a global infrastructure that enables cross-platform ad serving, data-driven creative, and measurement, Innovid offers its clients always-on intelligence to optimize advertising investment across channels, platforms, screens, and devices. Innovid is an independent platform that leads the market in converged TV innovation, through proprietary technology and exclusive partnerships designed to reimagine TV advertising. Headquartered in New York City, Innovid serves a global client base through offices across the Americas, Europe, and Asia Pacific. To learn more, visit https://www.innovid.com/ or follow us on LinkedIn or X. INNOVID, CORP. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited and in thousands) June 30, 2024 December 31, 2023 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 30,580 $ 49,585 Trade receivables, net 45,762 46,420 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 5,375 5,615 Total current assets 81,717 101,620 Long-term restricted deposits 430 412 Property and equipment, net 20,449 18,419 Goodwill 102,473 102,473 Intangible assets, net 22,309 24,318 Operating lease right of use asset 11,047 1,435 Other non-current assets 799 1,278 Total assets $ 239,224 $ 249,955 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities: Trade payables $ 6,548 $ 2,810 Employee and payroll accruals 9,312 14,060 Lease liabilities-current portion 1,354 1,200 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 11,849 7,426 Total current liabilities 29,063 25,496 Long-term debt - 20,000 Lease liabilities-non-current portion 10,053 634 Other non-current liabilities 10,536 7,528 Warrants liability 664 307 Common stock 14 13 Additional paid-in capital 388,467 378,774 Accumulated deficit (199,573 ) (182,797 ) Total stockholders' equity 188,908 195,990 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 239,224 $ 249,955 INNOVID, CORP. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited and in thousands, except share and per share data) Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue $ 37,951 $ 34,546 $ 74,689 $ 65,031 Cost of revenue (1) 9,097 8,591 17,829 16,856 Research and development (1) 7,304 6,876 13,625 13,993 Sales and marketing (1) 12,215 11,460 23,841 23,097 General and administrative (1) 9,297 8,924 19,832 18,574 Depreciation and amortization 2,831 2,064 5,455 4,094 Goodwill impairment - 14,503 - 14,503 Operating loss (2,793 ) (17,872 ) (5,893 ) (26,086 ) Finance income, net (78 ) (248 ) (120 ) (2,723 ) Loss before taxes (2,715 ) (17,624 ) (5,773 ) (23,363 ) Taxes on income 7,827 1,335 11,003 4,159 Net loss $ (10,542 ) $ (18,959 ) $ (16,776 ) $ (27,522 ) Net loss per share common share-basic and diluted $ (0.07 ) $ (0.14 ) $ (0.12 ) $ (0.20 ) Weighted-average number of shares used in computing net loss per share: Basic and diluted 144,772,932 137,643,910 143,574,479 134,296,569 (1) Exclusive of depreciation and amortization presented separately. INNOVID, CORP. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (Unaudited and in thousands, except share and per share data) Three months ended June 30, 2024 Common stock Additional paid-in capital Accumulated deficit Total stockholders' equity Shares Amount Balance as of March 31, 2024 143,861,609 $ 13 $ 382,935 $ (189,031 ) $ 193,917 Stock-based compensation 5,496 5,496 Issuance of common stock: -exercised options and RSUs vested 1,942,048 1 36 37 Net loss (10,542 ) (10,542 ) Balance as of June 30, 2024 145,803,657 $ 14 $ 388,467 $ (199,573 ) $ 188,908 Three months ended June 30, 2023 Common stock Additional paid-in capital Accumulated deficit Total stockholders' equity Shares Amount Balance as of March 31, 2023 136,616,734 $ 13 $ 361,948 $ (159,449 ) $ 202,512 Stock-based compensation 5,658 5,658 Issuance of common stock: -exercised options and RSUs vested 2,120,370 - 364 364 Net loss (18,959 ) (18,959 ) Balance as of June 30, 2023 138,737,104 $ 13 $ 367,970 $ (178,408 ) $ 189,575 Six months ended June 30, 2024 Common stock Additional paid-in capital Accumulated deficit Total stockholders' equity Shares Amount Balance as of December 31, 2023 141,194,179 $ 13 $ 378,774 $ (182,797 ) $ 195,990 Stock-based compensation 9,614 9,614 Issuance of common stock: -exercised options and RSUs vested 4,609,478 1 79 80 Net loss (16,776 ) (16,776 ) Balance as of June 30, 2024 145,803,657 14 $ 388,467 $ (199,573 ) $ 188,908 Six months ended June 30, 2023 Common stock Additional paid-in capital Accumulated deficit Total stockholders' equity Shares Amount Balance as of December 31, 2022 133,882,414 $ 13 $ 356,801 $ (150,886 ) $ 205,928 Stock-based compensation 10,555 10,555 Issuance of common stock: -exercised options and RSUs vested 4,854,690 - 614 614 Net loss (27,522 ) (27,522 ) Balance as of June 30, 2023 138,737,104 $ 13 $ 367,970 $ (178,408 ) $ 189,575 INNOVID, CORP. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited and in thousands) Six months ended June 30, 2024 2023 Cash flows from operating activities: Net loss $ (16,776 ) $ (27,522 ) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 5,455 4,094 Goodwill impairment - 14,503 Stock-based compensation 9,025 9,865 Change in fair value of warrants 357 (3,279 ) Loss on foreign exchange, net 251 - Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Trade receivables, net 658 415 Prepaid expenses and other assets 535 (1,390 ) Operating lease right of use assets 404 902 Trade payables 3,739 1,060 Employee and payroll accruals (4,748 ) 804 Operating lease liabilities (444 ) (1,130 ) Accrued expenses and other liabilities 7,430 2,626 Net cash provided by operating activities 5,886 948 Cash flows from investing activities: Internal use software capitalization (4,280 ) (5,591 ) Purchases of property and equipment (587 ) (189 ) Withdrawal of short-term bank deposits 165 10,000 Increase in deposits - 27 Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities (4,702 ) 4,247 Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from loan - 10,000 Payment on loan (20,000 ) (10,000 ) Proceeds from exercise of options 80 614 Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (19,920 ) 614 Effect of exchange rates on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash (251 ) - (Decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash (18,987 ) 5,809 Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at the beginning of the period 49,997 37,971 Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at the end of the period $ 31,010 $ 43,780 INNOVID, CORP. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES OTHER INFORMATION (Unaudited and in thousands) RECONCILIATION OF GAAP NET LOSS TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED EBITDA AND ADJUSTED EBITDA MARGIN PERCENT Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Net loss $ (10,542 ) $ (18,959 ) $ (16,776 ) $ (27,522 ) Net loss margin percent (28 )% (55 )% (22 )% (42 )% Depreciation and amortization 2,831 2,064 5,455 4,094 Goodwill impairment - 14,503 - 14,503 Stock-based compensation 5,187 5,334 9,025 9,958 Finance income, net (a) (78 ) (248 ) (120 ) (2,723 ) Retention bonus expenses (b) 40 148 132 445 Legal claims 206 342 1,134 656 Severance cost 415 - 415 845 Other (14 ) 23 - 272 Taxes on income 7,827 1,335 11,003 4,159 Adjusted EBITDA $ 5,872 $ 4,542 $ 10,268 $ 4,687 Adjusted EBITDA margin percent 15.5 % 13.1 % 13.7 % 7.2 % (a) Finance income, net consists mostly of remeasurement related to revaluation of our warrants, remeasurement of our foreign subsidiary's monetary assets, liabilities and operating results, and our interest expense. (b) Retention bonus expenses consists of retention bonuses for certain TVS employees. RECONCILIATION OF NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES TO NON-GAAP FREE CASH FLOW Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 1,234 $ 580 $ 5,886 $ 948 Loss on foreign exchange, net (161 ) - (251 ) - Capital expenditures (2,326 ) (2,600 ) (4,867 ) (5,780 ) Free Cash Flow $ (1,253 ) $ (2,020 ) $ 768 $ (4,832 ) Contacts Investor Lauren Hartman IR@innovid.com Media Megan Garnett Coyle megan@innovid.com ZYNLONTA net sales of $17.0 million in 2Q 2024; Commercial profitability achieved during first half of 2024 LOTIS-7 trial enrollment on track with efficacy and safety data on eligible patients expected by year-end 2024 and mature data on all patients expected in first half of 2025 Full enrollment in LOTIS-5 trial expected before year-end 2024 Company to host conference call today at 8:30 a.m. EDT LAUSANNE, Switzerland, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ADC Therapeutics SA (NYSE: ADCT), a commercial-stage global leader and pioneer in the field of antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), today reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024, and provided operational updates. "We continue to make progress on multiple fronts, including reaching a key milestone as ZYNLONTA achieves commercial profitability in the first half of the year. We are excited about the potential to further our growth as we move toward expanding into the second line setting of DLBCL and indolent lymphomas," said Ameet Mallik, Chief Executive Officer of ADC Therapeutics. "Additionally, we have now passed futility analysis with LOTIS-5 and expect to complete enrollment this year, while also planning to deliver updates on the LOTIS-7 trial and on ADCT-601 targeting AXL. With our expected cash runway extended into mid-2026, we are well positioned to execute our strategy and advance multiple value-generating catalysts before year-end." Second Quarter 2024 Operational Updates & Recent Highlights ZYNLONTA: Reached commercial profitability in the first half of 2024, generating net product sales of $17.0 million in the second quarter of 2024, a 5% decrease as compared to revenue of $17.8 million in the first quarter of 2024. Demand was impacted in part by variability in ordering patterns in the second quarter. LOTIS-7: During the second quarter, the Company announced the completion of dose escalation in LOTIS-7, a Phase 1b open-label clinical trial evaluating ZYNLONTA in combination with bispecific antibodies glofitamab or mosunetuzumab in heavily pre-treated patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (r/r B-NHL). Enrollment in the Part 2 dose expansion is progressing and completion is expected by year-end. An update on safety and efficacy in evaluable patients is expected by year-end, with data on all patients anticipated in the first half of 2025. LOTIS-5: The Phase 3 confirmatory trial for ZYNLONTA in combination with rituximab in patients with 2L+ diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). An Independent Data Monitoring Committee (IDMC) conducted a prespecified interim analysis of unblinded data and has recommended that the trial continue as planned without modifications. Enrollment is nearing completion in the randomized portion of the trial with full enrollment expected before year-end 2024. Investigator-initiated trial in marginal zone lymphoma (MZL): Partial data from an investigator-initiated Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating ZYNLONTA for the treatment of relapsed/refractory (r/r) MZL were presented on May 6, 2024 at the Lymphoma Research Foundation's 2024 Marginal Zone Lymphoma Scientific Workshop by the trial's lead investigator. Initial data from the first 15 evaluable patients showed 13 achieved a complete response and 1 achieved a partial response. The multi-center study is designed to enroll 50 patients. Additional data publications and presentations at medical congresses are expected in 2024 or 2025. Investigator-initiated trial in follicular lymphoma (FL): The investigator-initiated Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating ZYNLONTA in combination with rituximab in patients with relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma is currently being conducted at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Additional updates are expected at medical congresses in 2024 or 2025. ADCT-601 (targeting AXL): The Phase 1b trial in ADCT-601 targeting AXL continues enrolling patients in both the sarcoma and pancreatic cancer arms, optimizing dose and schedule. We plan to share an initial update from the Phase 1 trial in patients in the second half of 2024. Early-stage pipeline: Progress continues in the IND-enabling studies for the Company's PSMA, NaPi2b and Claudin-6 targeting ADCs. ASCT2 targeting ADC is in drug candidate selection stage and is still on track to complete this year. The Company has selected one target to move forward toward IND which we expect to disclose in 2025. Second Quarter and First Half 2024 Financial Results Cash and cash equivalents: As of June 30, 2024, cash and cash equivalents were $300.1 million, compared to $278.6 million as of December 31, 2023. In May 2024 the Company completed an underwritten offering resulting in net proceeds of approximately $97.4 million, extending the expected cash runway into mid-2026. Product Revenues: Net product revenues were $17.0 million for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024 and $34.9 million for the first six months of 2024 as compared to $19.2 million and $38.2 million for the same periods in 2023. The quarter-over-quarter decrease is primarily due to lower sales volume, partially offset by a higher price. The year-to-date decrease is primarily due to lower sales volumes, as well as higher gross-to-net deductions primarily due to the discarded drug rebate accrual partially offset by a higher price. Research and Development (R&D) Expense: R&D expense was $24.3 million and $50.0 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, respectively. This compares to R&D expense of $31.3 million and $69.7 million for the same periods in 2023. The decrease is due primarily to implementation of productivity initiatives and focused investment in prioritized development programs. Selling and Marketing (S&M) Expense: S&M expense was $10.7 million and $22.1 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, respectively. This compares to S&M expense of $14.5 million and $29.8 million for the same periods in 2023. The decrease in S&M expense was primarily due to lower marketing and advertising costs and personnel related expenses. General & Administrative (G&A) Expense: G&A expense was $10.2 million and $22.3 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, respectively. This compares to G&A expense of $12.0 million and $27.5 million for the same periods in 2023. The quarter-over-quarter decrease in G&A expense was primarily related to lower legal and audit fees, insurance and IT expenses while the year-to-date decrease was primarily related to lower insurance and IT expenses, partially offset by higher legal and audit fees. Net Loss: Net loss for the quarter ended June 30, 2024 was $36.5 million, or a net loss of $0.38 per basic and diluted share, as compared to net loss of $48.9 million, or a net loss of $0.60 per basic and diluted share for the same period in 2023. Net loss for the six months ended June 30, 2024 was $83.2 million, or a net loss of $0.93 per basic and diluted share, as compared to net loss of $108.3 million, or a net loss of $1.33 per basic and diluted share for the six months ended June 30, 2023. The decrease is primarily due to lower operating expenses. Adjusted Net Loss: Adjusted net loss, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, was $24.4 million, or an adjusted net loss of $0.25 per basic and diluted share for the quarter ended June 30, 2024 as compared to adjusted net loss of $32.1 million, or $0.39 per basic and diluted share, for the same period in 2023. Adjusted net loss for the six months ended June 30, 2024 was $55.5 million, or an adjusted net loss of $0.62 per basic and diluted share, as compared to net loss of $73.9 million, or an adjusted net loss of $0.91 per basic and diluted share for the six months ended June 30, 2023. The decrease in adjusted net loss is primarily attributable to lower operating expenses. Conference Call Details ADC Therapeutics management will host a conference call and live audio webcast to discuss second quarter 2024 financial results and provide a company update today at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. To access the conference call, please register here. Registrants will receive the dial-in number and unique PIN. It is recommended that you join 10 minutes before the event, though you may pre-register at any time. A live webcast of the call will be available under "Events & Presentations" in the Investors section of the ADC Therapeutics website at ir.adctherapeutics.com. The archived webcast will be available for 30 days following the call. About ZYNLONTA ZYNLONTA is a CD19-directed antibody drug conjugate (ADC). Once bound to a CD19-expressing cell, ZYNLONTA is internalized by the cell, where enzymes release a pyrrolobenzodiazepine (PBD) payload. The potent payload binds to DNA minor groove with little distortion, remaining less visible to DNA repair mechanisms. This ultimately results in cell cycle arrest and tumor cell death. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration. ZYNLONTA is also being evaluated as a therapeutic option in combination studies in other B-cell malignancies and earlier lines of therapy. About ADC Therapeutics ADC Therapeutics (NYSE: ADCT) is a commercial-stage global leader and pioneer in the field of antibody drug conjugates (ADCs). The Company is advancing its proprietary ADC technology to transform the treatment paradigm for patients with hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. ADC Therapeutics' CD19-directed ADC ZYNLONTA (loncastuximab tesirine-lpyl) received accelerated approval by the FDA and conditional approval from the European Commission for the treatment of relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma after two or more lines of systemic therapy. ZYNLONTA is also in development in combination with other agents and in earlier lines of therapy. In addition to ZYNLONTA, ADC Therapeutics has multiple ADCs in ongoing clinical and preclinical development. ADC Therapeutics is based in Lausanneand follow the Company on LinkedIn. ZYNLONTA is a registered trademark of ADC Therapeutics SA. Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures In addition to financial information prepared in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), this document also contains certain non-GAAP financial measures based on management's view of performance including: Adjusted total operating expenses Adjusted net loss Adjusted net loss per share Management uses such measures internally when monitoring and evaluating our operational performance, generating future operating plans and making strategic decisions regarding the allocation of capital. We believe that these adjusted financial measures provide useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating our operating results in the same manner as our management and facilitate operating performance comparability across both past and future reporting periods. These non-GAAP measures have limitations as financial measures and should be considered in addition to, and not in isolation or as a substitute for, the information prepared in accordance with GAAP. When preparing these supplemental non-GAAP measures, management typically excludes certain GAAP items that management does not believe are indicative of our ongoing operating performance. Furthermore, management does not consider these GAAP items to be normal, recurring cash operating expenses; however, these items may not meet the GAAP definition of unusual or non-recurring items. Since non-GAAP financial measures do not have standardized definitions and meanings, they may differ from the non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies, which reduces their usefulness as comparative financial measures. Because of these limitations, you should consider these adjusted financial measures alongside other GAAP financial measures. The following items are excluded from adjusted total operating expenses: Shared-Based Compensation Expense: We exclude share-based compensation expense from our adjusted financial measures because share-based compensation expense, which is non-cash, fluctuates from period to period based on factors that are not within our control, such as our stock price on the dates share-based grants are issued. Share-based compensation expense has been, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future, a recurring expense in our business and an important part of our compensation strategy. The following items are excluded from adjusted net loss and adjusted net loss per share: Shared-Based Compensation Expense: We exclude share-based compensation expense from our adjusted financial measures because share-based compensation expense, which is non-cash, fluctuates from period to period based on factors that are not within our control, such as our stock price on the dates share-based grants are issued. Share-based compensation expense has been, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future, a recurring expense in our business and an important part of our compensation strategy. Certain Other Items: We exclude certain other significant items that we believe do not represent the performance of our business, from our adjusted financial measures. Such items are evaluated by management on an individual basis based on both quantitative and qualitative aspects of their nature. While not all-inclusive, examples of certain other significant items excluded from our adjusted financial measures would be: changes in the fair value of warrant obligations and the effective interest expense associated with the senior secured term loan facility and the effective interest expense and cumulative catch-up adjustments associated with the deferred royalty obligation under the royalty purchase agreement with HealthCare Royalty Partners. See the attached Reconciliation of GAAP Measures to Non-GAAP Measures for explanations of the amounts excluded and included to arrive at the non-GAAP financial measures. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "may", "will", "should", "would", "expect", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "predict", "potential", "seem", "seek", "future", "continue", or "appear" or the negative of these terms or similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that can cause actual results to differ materially from those described. Factors that may cause such differences include, but are not limited to: the expected cash runway into mid-2026 the Company's ability to grow ZYNLONTA revenue in the United States; the ability of our partners to commercialize ZYNLONTA in foreign markets, the timing and amount of future revenue and payments to us from such partnerships and their ability to obtain regulatory approval for ZYNLONTA in foreign jurisdictions; the timing and results of the Company's or its partners' research and development projects or clinical trials including LOTIS 5 and 7, ADCT 601 and 602 as well as early research in certain solid tumors with different targets, linkers and payloads; the timing and results of investigator-initiated trials including those studying FL and MZL and the potential regulatory and/or compendia strategy and the future opportunity; the timing and outcome of regulatory submissions for the Company's products or product candidates; actions by the FDA or foreign regulatory authorities; projected revenue and expenses; the Company's indebtedness, including Healthcare Royalty Management and Blue Owl and Oaktree facilities, and the restrictions imposed on the Company's activities by such indebtedness, the ability to comply with the terms of the various agreements and repay such indebtedness and the significant cash required to service such indebtedness; and the Company's ability to obtain financial and other resources for its research, development, clinical, and commercial activities. Additional information concerning these and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements is contained in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K and in the Company's other periodic and current reports and filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, achievements or prospects to be materially different from any future results, performance, achievements or prospects expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company cautions investors not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this document. ADC Therapeutics SA Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operation (Unaudited) (in thousands, except for share and per share data) For the Three Months Ended June 30, For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue Product revenues, net $ 17,030 $ 19,197 $ 34,878 $ 38,150 License revenues and royalties 380 86 585 125 Total revenue, net 17,410 19,283 35,463 38,275 Operating expense Cost of product sales (1,217) (1,132) (3,727) (1,105) Research and development (24,295) (31,342) (50,030) (69,717) Selling and marketing (10,701) (14,456) (22,091) (29,807) General and administrative (10,238) (12,002) (22,269) (27,505) Total operating expense (46,451) (58,932) (98,117) (128,134) Loss from operations (29,041) (39,649) (62,654) (89,859) Other income (expense) Interest income 3,253 2,372 6,201 4,547 Interest expense (12,679) (10,309) (25,175) (20,600) Other, net 2,754 (5,067) 159 (4,234) Total other expense, net (6,672) (13,004) (18,815) (20,287) Loss before income taxes (35,713) (52,653) (81,469) (110,146) Income tax (expense) benefit (234) 4,498 (397) 3,980 Loss before equity in net losses of joint venture (35,947) (48,155) (81,866) (106,166) Equity in net losses of joint venture (597) (767) (1,284) (2,130) Net loss $ (36,544) $ (48,922) $ (83,150) $ (108,296) Net loss per share Net loss per share, basic and diluted $ (0.38) $ (0.60) $ (0.93) $ (1.33) Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted 95,691,245 81,471,127 89,121,783 81,140,287 ADC Therapeutics SA Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (Unaudited) (in thousands) June 30, 2024 December 31, 2023 ASSETS Current assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 300,119 $ 278,598 Accounts receivable, net 22,868 25,182 Inventory 15,191 16,177 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 17,181 16,334 Total current assets 355,359 336,291 Non-current assets Property and equipment, net 5,483 5,622 Operating lease right-of-use assets 9,685 10,511 Interest in joint venture 260 1,647 Other long-term assets 992 711 Total assets $ 371,779 $ 354,782 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities Accounts payable $ 10,708 $ 15,569 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 46,924 52,101 Total current liabilities 57,632 67,670 Deferred royalty obligation, long-term 316,211 303,572 Senior secured term loans 113,673 112,730 Operating lease liabilities, long-term 9,309 10,180 Other long-term liabilities 6,624 8,879 Total liabilities 503,449 503,031 Total shareholders' equity (deficit) (131,670) (148,249) Total liabilities and shareholders' equity (deficit) $ 371,779 $ 354,782 ADC Therapeutics SA Reconciliation of GAAP Measures to Non-GAAP Measures (Unaudited) (in thousands, except for share and per share data) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, (in thousands) 2024 2023 Change % Change 2024 2023 Change % Change Total operating expense (46,451) (58,932) 12,481 (21)% $ (98,117) $ (128,134) $ 30,017 (23)% Adjustments: Share-based compensation expense (i) 1,988 1,118 870 78% 2,146 9,192 (7,046) (77)% Adjusted total operating expenses (44,463) (57,814) 13,351 (23)% $ (95,971) $ (118,942) $ 22,971 (19)% Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, in thousands (except for share and per share data) 2024 2023 2024 2023 Net loss $ (36,544) $ (48,922) $ (83,150) $ (108,296) Adjustments: Share-based compensation expense (i) 1,988 1,118 2,146 9,192 Deerfield warrants obligation, change in fair value (income) expense (ii) (2,230) (20) 838 (636) Effective interest expense on senior secured term loan facility (iii) 4,413 4,480 8,816 9,020 Deferred royalty obligation interest expense (iv) 8,266 5,829 16,359 11,575 Deferred royalty obligation cumulative catch-up adjustment (income) expense (iv) (263) 5,417 (526) 5,288 Adjusted net loss $ (24,370) $ (32,098) $ (55,517) $ (73,857) Net loss per share, basic and diluted $ (0.38) $ (0.60) $ (0.93) $ (1.33) Adjustment to net loss per share, basic and diluted 0.13 0.21 0.31 0.42 Adjusted net loss per share, basic and diluted $ (0.25) $ (0.39) $ (0.62) $ (0.91) Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted 95,691,245 81,471,127 89,121,783 81,140,287 (i) Share-based compensation expense represents the cost of equity awards issued to our directors, management and employees. The fair value of awards is computed at the time the award is granted and is recognized over the requisite service period less actual forfeitures by a charge to the statement of operations and a corresponding increase in additional paid-in capital within equity. These accounting entries have no cash impact. (ii) Change in the fair value of the Deerfield warrant obligation results from the valuation at the end of each accounting period. There are several inputs to these valuations, but those most likely to result in significant changes to the valuations are changes in the value of the underlying instrument (i.e., changes in the price of our common shares) and changes in expected volatility in that price. These accounting entries have no cash impact. (iii) Effective interest expense on senior secured term loans relates to the increase in the value of our loans in accordance with the amortized cost method. (iv) Deferred royalty obligation interest expense relates to the accretion expense on our deferred royalty obligation pursuant to the royalty purchase agreement with HCR and cumulative catch-up adjustments related to changes in the expected payments to HCR based on a periodic assessment of our underlying revenue projections. CONTACTS: Advanced Horizon Markets s.r.o. is excited to announce a significant development for its GlobalTrade project. An investment firm has acquired an 80% stake in GlobalTrade during its seed phase, valuing the project at 1.1 million Euros. This strategic investment marks a pivotal moment for GlobalTrade, propelling it into a new era of growth and expansion. As part of this development, the headquarters of the GlobalTrade project will be relocated to Muscat, Oman. This move represents more than a change of address; it symbolizes the fusion of expertise with the rich resources and innovative spirit of Omani partners. GlobalTrade aims to redefine international trade operations through digital innovation, transparency, compliance, and sustainability. With this investment, efforts to create a comprehensive digital marketplace that serves the global business community will be accelerated. The platform is designed to offer robust business verification, smart contracts, integrated quality control, comprehensive shipping solutions, and real-time tracking, all powered by advanced technologies such as blockchain and AI. Advanced Horizon Markets will retain 15% of the shares, with a three-year cliff, while an additional 5% will be distributed among dedicated technical team members. This structure not only rewards the hard work and dedication of the team but also aligns with the long-term vision of the project. Partnerships with international organizations, financial institutions, insurance companies, tech startups, and logistics providers underscore the commitment to making GlobalTrade a one-stop solution for all global trade needs. These collaborations enhance the platform's offerings, making it a comprehensive and seamless experience for businesses worldwide. Amin Mirfakhraie, Co-Founder of GlobalTrade, expressed his excitement about this new chapter: "We are thrilled about this investment and the opportunities it brings for GlobalTrade. Relocating to Muscat and collaborating with our Omani partners will enable us to leverage their expertise and resources, accelerating our platform's development and introducing innovative solutions to the global trade market." Advanced Horizon Markets specializes in creating technology-driven solutions that push the boundaries of what's possible. The company is committed to enhancing global trade through cutting-edge digital platforms and services that promote innovation, sustainability, transparency, compliance, and simplified global trade. For more information, please visit https://www.advancedhorizonmarkets.com and follow on LinkedIn. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240726567782/en/ Contacts: Amin H. Mirfakhraie +420 739 374 793 AMirfakhraie@AdvancedHorizonMarkets.com +420 724209739 Info@AdvancedHorizonMarkets.com www.AdvancedHorizonMarkets.com Na strzi 1702/65, Praha 4, 140 00, Prague, Czechia Cardston, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - American Creek Resources Ltd. (TSXV: AMK) (OTCQB: ACKRF) (the "Company" or "American Creek") provides an update relating to its news release of June 6, 2024, in which it announced that it has entered into a non-binding and arm's length letter of intent ("LOI") with Cunningham Mining Ltd. ("Cunningham"), whereby Cunningham, or a subsidiary of Cunningham, proposes to acquire all of the issued and outstanding securities of the Company at a share price of $0.43 payable in cash (the "Proposed Transaction"). Refer to the June 6, 2024 news release for full details on the LOI and Proposed Transaction: Click Here. American Creek has now received confirmation that Cunningham has entered into a token subscription facility of up to US$153 million for a 36-month term following a centralized exchange listing of the Cunningham Mining Token, the funds from which are expected to be used to fund Cunningham's financial obligations under the Proposed Transaction. The August 5, 2024, Cunningham news release can be viewed HERE. Consequently, the parties are now working on negotiating and finalizing a Definitive Agreement and as such, have extended the exclusivity period under the LOI to 4:00 p.m. (Vancouver Time) on September 5, 2024. Darren Blaney, CEO of American Creek, commented: "We are pleased to see this proposed deal continuing to move forward with Cunningham. They really need to be commended for recognizing the value of American Creek's 20% carried interest in the Goldstorm deposit, and the mineral potential of the Treaty Creek Project as a whole. Cunningham has shown both foresight and a pioneering mindset with respect to the rapidly expanding global tokenization trend, as well as a focus in aligning and merging tokenization with the mining sector." In that negotiations are ongoing, the Company cannot provide any assurance that it will be able to agree on the final terms of the Definitive Agreement with Cunningham. Any Proposed Transaction will be subject to, among other conditions, completion of due diligence by Cunningham, negotiation of the Definitive Agreement, a recommendation of the Special Committee appointed by the Company's Board, and approval by the Board. Approvals will also be required from shareholders of the Company, the Supreme Court of British Columbia (in accordance with the BC Business Corporations Act), and the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV"). The Proposed Transaction will also be conditional upon such other customary closing conditions that may be included in the Definitive Agreement. If a Definitive Agreement is executed, the Company expects that it will be required to hold a special meeting (the "Special Meeting") of the Company's shareholders to approve the Proposed Transaction. The Proposed Transaction is subject to receipt of the foregoing approvals and other customary closing conditions. Terms and conditions of the Proposed Transaction are expected to be disclosed in greater detail in a management information circular for the Special Meeting (the "Circular"). Following execution of the Definitive Agreement, a Circular will be delivered to the Company's shareholders. In the event that the Company executes a Definitive Agreement with Cunningham, copies of such Definitive Agreement and a Circular for the Special Meeting will be filed with Canadian securities regulators. Documents filed by the Company with Canadian securities regulators are available on the SEDAR+ profile of the Company at www.sedarplus.ca. Shareholders are urged to read any relevant materials when they become available. However, Shareholders do not need to take any action with respect to the Proposed Transaction at this time. About American Creek and the Treaty Creek Project American Creek is a proud partner in the Treaty Creek Project, a joint venture with Tudor Gold Corp. located in BC's prolific "Golden Triangle". American Creek holds a fully carried 20% interest in the Treaty Creek Project until a production notice is given, meaning that no exploration or development costs are incurred by American Creek until such time as a production notice has been issued. American Creek shareholders have a unique opportunity to avoid the dilutive effects of exploration while maintaining their full 20% exposure to one of the world's most exciting mega deposits. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of certain securities laws and are based on expectations and projections as of the date of this press release. Forward-looking information and forward-looking statements may relate to the Company, Cunningham, and to anticipated events or results, notably the negotiation and completion of the Proposed Transaction on terms substantially similar to those currently contemplated. Statements regarding future results, performance, achievements, prospects, or opportunities of the Company, Cunningham, or similar statements concerning anticipated future events, results, circumstances, performance or expectations, notably the execution of a Definitive Agreement and the completion of the Proposed Transaction, as contemplated, are also forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, without limitation, those related to: the ability of Cunningham to draw down on the token subscription facility in order to finance the Proposed Transaction; the ability of the Company and Cunningham to negotiate and execute the Definitive Agreement; the Company's receipt of all necessary approvals (including shareholder approval, court approval, and the approvals of the TSXV); the final terms of the Proposed Transaction contained in the Definitive Agreement; and more generally, the quote from the CEO of American Creek, as well as the sections entitled "About American Creek and the Treaty Creek Project". Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, estimates, and projections as of the time of this press release. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonably by the Company as of the time of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. These estimates and assumptions may prove to be incorrect. Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can directly or indirectly affect, and could cause, actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that the Company, the Special Committee, or the Board will be able to negotiate or approve a Definitive Agreement on terms acceptable to each of them and Cunningham. Future events could differ materially from what is currently anticipated by the Company or Cunningham. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of important risk factors and future events could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates, assumptions, and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and those made in the Company's other filings with the securities regulators of Canada including, but not limited to, the cautionary statements made in the relevant portion of the Company's Management Discussion & Analysis prepared as of April 22, 2024, for the financial year ended December 31, 2023. The foregoing list of factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive and new, unforeseeable risks may arise from time to time. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218973 SOURCE: American Creek Resources Ltd. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - Romios Gold Resources Inc. (TSXV: RG) (OTC Pink: RMIOF) (FSE: D4R) ("Romios Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to its Press Release of July 11th, 2024, it has completed the first tranche of a non-brokered private placement offering of up to 15,000,000 million shares (the "Shares") priced at $0.01 per Share for up to $150,000 (the "Offering") with the placement of 8,500,000 Shares for gross proceeds of $85,000.00 (the "Initial Closing"). The securities issued at the Initial Closing of the Offering are subject to a hold period expiring on December 3, 2024. The Offering will remain open until the earlier of the sale of the remaining Shares and August 26th, 2024. An insider of the Company subscribed for 1,000,000 Shares for $10,000 under the Initial Closing. The insider private placement is exempt from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101") by virtue of the exemptions contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1) (a) of MI 61-101 in that the fair market value of the consideration for the securities of the Company issued to the insider does not exceed 25% of its market capitalization. The securities described herein have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws, and accordingly, may not be offered or sold within the United States except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities requirements or pursuant to exemptions therefrom. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any securities in any jurisdiction. About Romios Gold Resources Inc. Romios Gold Resources Inc. is a progressive Canadian mineral exploration company engaged in precious- and base-metal exploration, focused primarily on gold, copper and silver. It has a 100% interest in the Lundmark-Akow Lake Au-Cu property plus 4 additional claim blocks in northwestern Ontario and extensive claim holdings covering several significant porphyry copper-gold prospects in the "Golden Triangle" of British Columbia. Additional interests include the Kinkaid claims in Nevada covering numerous Au-Ag-Cu workings, and two former producers: the Scossa mine property (Nevada) which is a former high-grade gold producer and the La Corne molybdenum mine property (Quebec). The Company retains an ongoing interest in several properties including a 2% NSR on McEwen Mining's Hislop gold property in Ontario; a 2% NSR on Enduro Metals' Newmont Lake Au-Cu-Ag property in BC, and the Company has signed a definitive agreement with Copperhead Resources Inc. ("Copperhead") whereby Copperhead can acquire a 75% ownership interest in Romios' Red Line Property in BC. For more information, visit www.romios.com As part of our ongoing effort to keep investors, interested parties and stakeholders updated, we have several communication portals. If you have any questions online (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn) please feel free to send direct messages. To book a one-on-one 30-minute Zoom video call, please click here. This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or include the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements. TSX Venture Exchange or its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. NOT FOR DISSEMINATION, DISTRIBUTION, RELEASE, OR PUBLICATION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218972 SOURCE: Romios Gold Resources Inc. Kingston, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - Delta Resources Limited (TSXV: DLTA) (OTC Pink: DTARF) (FSE: 6GO1) ("Delta" or "The Company") is pleased announce that it has acquired a 100% interest in the Ternowesky property further expanding its land position at the Delta-1 property in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The expansive property consists of 443 claim units spanning over seven (7) townships and covering over 93 square kilometres. Delta's land package now covers over 306 square-kilometres in the central portion of the Shebandowan Greenstone Belt. The property now covers a 35-kilometre strike extent of both the Shebandowan and Gold Creek deformation zones. Both structures are gold-endowed, crustal-scale structural zones at the unconformable boundary between Temiskaming-Type sedimentary rocks and volcanic rocks of the Greenwater Formation; the same geological setting as Delta's Eureka Gold Zone. The claims are contiguous with the Delta-1 property (see map below). Figure 1: Map showing the location of the Delta-1 and Delta-1-Ternowesky Properties. To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8482/218970_fbc55538d44af8df_001full.jpg "Delta has assembled an outstanding land package with significant potential for multiple deposits, not only for gold mineralization, but also for magmatic copper-nickel deposits such as the former producing Inco Mine. The Delta team is already working up new gold targets for further testing later in 2024. We are anxious to reveal the true potential of this newly acquired ground as Delta takes a significant controlling land position in the Eastern Shebandowan Greenstone Belt," said Andre Tessier, President and CEO. Delta has reached an agreement with the Vendors whereby Delta will pay $150,000 and issue 1.1M shares of the Company upon TSX approval of the transaction. The Vendors will retain a 2% Net Smelter Return Royalty ("NSR"). Delta will have the option to buy back a 1% NSR at any time for $2M and will have a right of first refusal on the second 1% NSR to a maximum of $4M. Half of the shares issued by Delta will be subject to the regulatory hold of four (4) months while the other half are subject to a voluntary hold of twelve (12) months hold by the Vendors. The agreement is subject to regulatory approval. Qualified Person Daniel Boudreau, P.Geo. and Manager of Exploration at Delta Resources Limited, is a Qualified Persons as defined by NI-43-101 and has reviewed the technical information presented in this press release. About Delta Resources Limited Delta Resources Limited is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on growing shareholder value through the exploration of two very high-potential gold and base-metal projects in Canada. DELTA-1 is Delta's flagship project, where the company is building on a large gold inventory 50 kilometres west of Thunder Bay, Ontario, at surface and adjacent to the Trans-Canada highway. To date, the gold mineralization is defined over a strike length of 2.0 km, from surface to a vertical depth of 250 m. Highlights include drill intercepts such as 5.92 g/t Au over 31 m (incl. 14.8 g/t Au over 11.9 m), and 1.79 g/t Au over 128.5 m. The property covers 306 square kilometres where Delta has identified multiple corridors of intense alteration and deformation, on strike with, and to the south of the Eureka gold zone and that has yet to be thoroughly explored. The DELTA-2 property covers 205 square kilometres in the prolific Chibougamau District of Quebec. The property holds excellent potential for gold-rich polymetallic VMS deposits as well as hydrothermal-gold deposits. Delta targets VMS deposits such as the LeMoine past producer where 0.76 Mt were mined between 1975 and 1983, grading 9.6% Zn, 4.2% Cu, 4.5 g/t Au and 84 g/t Ag. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DELTA RESOURCES LIMITED. Andre Tessier President and CEO www.deltaresources.ca We seek safe harbor. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The TSX Venture Exchange has not approved nor disapproved of the information contained herein. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information Some statements contained in this news release are "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes" or variations of such words and phrases (including negative or grammatical variations) or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information is inherently uncertain and involves risks, assumptions and uncertainties that could cause actual facts to differ materially. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting the Company will be those anticipated by management. The forward-looking information contained in this press release constitutes management's current estimates, as of the date of this press release, with respect to the matters covered thereby. We expect that these estimates will change as new information is received. While we may elect to update these estimates at any time, we do not undertake to update any estimate at any particular time or in response to any particular event. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218970 SOURCE: Delta Resources Limited Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - Cosa Resources Corp. (TSXV: COSA) (OTCQB: COSAF) (FSE: SSKU) ("Cosa" or the "Company") is pleased to announce completion of the previously announced expansion (the "Acquisition") of the Orbit uranium Property in the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan ("Orbit" or the "Property") from Skyharbour Resources Ltd. (the "Vendor") pursuant to an asset purchase agreement dated July 26, 2024 (the "Purchase Agreement"). Highlights Two mineral dispositions totalling 6,049 hectares have been acquired, doubling the footprint of Orbit to 12,718 hectares Expands Cosa's control of undrilled strike length to eight kilometres located on trend with uranium mineralization, hydrothermal alteration, and reactivated graphitic faulting to the southwest Keith Bodnarchuk, President and CEO of Cosa, commented: "We are very pleased to double the footprint of the Orbit Project, which covers shallow target areas that have been largely overlooked by modern exploration. We look forward to receipt of results from recent airborne electromagnetic and gravity surveys which will guide continued exploration of this prospective area located only 25 kilometres from the Key Lake Uranium mill. We thank the Skyharbour team for their part in completing this Acquisition in a timely and businesslike manner. Having closed this transaction, Cosa continues to identify and pursue cost-effective opportunities to add to our pipeline of exciting projects and drill targets as we remain fully funded to complete all of our exploration plans into 2025." The Expanded Orbit Project The Orbit Project is located roughly 19 kilometres south of the Athabasca Basin and 22 kilometres south of the Key Lake Mill and former Key Lake Mine (Figure 1) and is accessible by a network of trails extending to within 11 kilometres of the Project from Provincial Highway 914. Despite the Key Lake Mine's historical production of over 209 million lbs U3O8 at an average grade of 2.3%, the Orbit Project and surrounding area have seen little modern exploration. The northern portion of the expanded Orbit Project captures nearly eight kilometres of the interpreted strike extension of a northeast-trending magnetic low corridor that hosts occurrences of graphitic faulting, strong hydrothermal alteration, and weak uranium mineralization including 0.07% U3O8 in drill hole TED-01 (106.4 - 106.6 metres). The trend is sub-parallel to that which hosts the Gaertner and Deilmann uranium deposits of the former Key Lake Mine. The southern portion of the Orbit Project covers curvilinear, northeast-trending magnetic lows crosscut by lineaments identified from regional magnetic data which suggest favourable structural complexity. As with the northern portion of the Orbit Project, this area is untested by drilling. Like the 100% owned Aurora project to the northeast, Cosa believes that the Orbit Project is underexplored and remains prospective for near surface and open-pit amenable uranium mineralization. The Company aims to complete initial drill testing at the Orbit Project in 2025. Acquisition Details Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, Cosa has acquired a 100% unencumbered ownership of two mineral claims from the Vendor in exchange for 250,000 common shares of the Company (the "Consideration Shares"). The Consideration Shares are subject to a four-month hold period pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws, after which 50% of the Consideration Shares will become free trading. The Vendor has agreed to voluntary resale restrictions whereby the balance of 50% of the Consideration Shares will become free trading six months after closing. Figure 1 - Orbit Uranium Project and Expanded Claims To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9865/218859_29be551494174921_003full.jpg About Cosa Resources Corp. Cosa Resources is a Canadian uranium exploration company operating in northern Saskatchewan. The portfolio comprises roughly 216,000 ha across multiple projects in the Athabasca Basin region, all of which are underexplored, and the majority reside within or adjacent to established uranium corridors. Cosa's award-winning management team has a long track record of success in Saskatchewan. In 2022, members of the Cosa team were awarded the AME Colin Spence Award for their previous involvement in discovering IsoEnergy's Hurricane deposit. Prior to Hurricane, Cosa personnel led teams or had integral roles in the discovery of Denison Mines' Gryphon deposit and 92 Energy's Gemini Zone and held key roles in the founding of both NexGen and IsoEnergy. Cosa's primary focus through 2024 is initial drilling at our Ursa Project, which captures over 60-kilometres of strike length of the Cable Bay Shear Zone, a regional structural corridor with known mineralization and limited historical drilling. It potentially represents the last remaining eastern Athabasca corridor to not yet yield a major discovery. Modern geophysics completed by Cosa in 2023 identified multiple high-priority target areas characterized by conductive basement stratigraphy beneath or adjacent to broad zones of inferred sandstone alteration - a setting that is typical of most eastern Athabasca uranium deposits. Initial drilling results from Ursa in winter 2024 are positive and include the intersection of a broad zone of alteration with associated structure in the Athabasca sandstone located 250 to 460 metres above the sub-Athabasca unconformity. Follow-up is planned in the second half of 2024. Qualified Person The Company's disclosure of technical or scientific information in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Andy Carmichael, P.Geo., Vice President, Exploration for Cosa. Mr. Carmichael is a Qualified Person as defined under the terms of National Instrument 43-101. This news release refers to properties in which the Company has no interest. Mineralization on those neighboring properties does not necessarily indicate mineralization on the Company's properties. Cautionary Statements Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws (collectively "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, plans, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. All statements that are not statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include but are not limited to statements regarding, the Company's exploration and development plans. Although the Company believes any forward-looking statements in this press release are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations and assumptions in such statements will prove to be correct. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, changes in the state of equity and debt markets, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in obtaining required regulatory or governmental approvals, and other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, including those risks set out in the Company's management's discussion and analysis as filed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Forward-looking information in this news release is based on the opinions and assumptions of management considered reasonable as of the date hereof, including the price of uranium and other commodities; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; the Company's ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, other than as required by applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218859 SOURCE: Cosa Resources Corp. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7) Ambassador Thomas Graham Jr. and the Board of Directors (the "Board") of CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. ("CanAlaska" or the "Company") announce that effective immediately, Ambassador Graham Jr. has elected to step down as Chair of the Board of CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. and will remain on the Board of the Company designated with the title Chair Emeritus. Effective immediately, current Board member Karen Lloyd has been appointed Chair of the Board for CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. and Shane Shircliff has been appointed to the Board. Karen Lloyd Ms. Lloyd (B. Comm., M.B.A.) comes from a strong strategy, marketing and operations background across six different industries including mining, telecommunications, online payments, executive training, banking and aviation. This depth of experience comes from her employment with Telus Communications, Hongkong Bank of Canada and Cameco Corporation. Between 2009 and 2020, Ms. Lloyd managed a team of contract and inventory specialists to seamlessly fulfill global uranium sales generating annual revenue of between $1.8 and $2.4 billion for Cameco Corporation as a Director in Cameco's Marketing team. In April 2021, Ms. Lloyd joined Kreos Aviation as Chief Operating Officer where she oversees all aspects of the Kreos operations including asset management, strategic alliances, flight operations, maintenance, fuel operations, marketing and sales, and business development. Ms. Lloyd obtained her ICD.D designation through the Institute of Corporate Directors in June 2023 and has been an independent member of CanAlaska's Board since her appointment in July 2021. Karen Lloyd To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2864/218759_02f3fc12140a69a9_001full.jpg CanAlaska Chair, Karen Lloyd, comments; "I am honored to assume this responsibility from Ambassador Graham who has served CanAlaska and its shareholders since 2007. I am a true believer and proponent for a clean energy future. CanAlaska is at an exciting juncture and has assembled a world-class technical team well positioned to extract value from an extensive exploration portfolio in the Athabasca Basin. I worked with many of them at Cameco and am grateful for the opportunity to partner with Cory, Nathan and my fellow board members to maximize the potential of our assets on behalf of our shareholders. CanAlaska is well positioned to advance the Pike Zone discovery supported by a diverse board with industry and governance experience which compliments the strong leadership and expertise of the CanAlaska team. I appreciate the opportunity to play a stewardship role in the CanAlaska story ahead." Shane Shircliff Mr. Shircliff (B. Comm., M.B.A.), now appointed to CanAlaska's Board, has over twenty years of experience in senior management and corporate director roles for both publicly traded and private companies, and has extensive experience with various public regulatory regimes. Mr. Shircliff's breadth of expertise over his career include all aspects of negotiating and mergers, acquisitions and divestitures totaling over one billion dollars in value. Mr. Shircliff was a member of Cameco Corporation's Corporate Development and Power Generation team between 2002 and 2011 ending with the position of Director. During this time, he was a lead for growth/acquisition opportunities through early identification, assessment and valuation, due diligence, deal structure, negotiations and transition planning. Mr. Shircliff has been directly involved with all aspects of developing resource projects encompassing lithium, uranium, gold, silver, industrial minerals, diamonds as well as oil and gas in a variety of countries. Mr. Shircliff is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Clinworth Management Corp., a private company, which provides management and corporate development services to a wide range of clients. In addition to industry clients, Clinworth continues to advise First Nations and their economic development entities on strategy, negotiation and growth opportunities. Mr. Shircliff has been a member of CanAlaska's Advisory Board since July 2021. Shane Shircliff To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2864/218759_02f3fc12140a69a9_002full.jpg CanAlaska Board Member, Shane Shircliff, comments; "I am deeply honored to accept the board position with CanAlaska. The synergy of a remarkable team, a distinguished board, and world-class assets creates an extraordinary opportunity. Having witnessed CanAlaska's evolution into a leading organization under the guidance of its management and board, I am excited to rejoin Karen, Cory, and the team. I look forward to contributing to the company's continued success and growth as we strive to realize its full potential in the uranium sector. The importance of the uranium sector in advancing global energy solutions and supporting a sustainable future underscores the significance the work CanAlaska is undertaking." Ambassador Thomas Graham Jr. Ambassador Graham Jr. has been a strong member of CanAlaska's board for the past 18 years. Ambassador Thomas Graham, Jr. is one of the world's leading experts in nuclear non-proliferation. Amb. Graham Jr. has served under four successive U.S. Presidents as a senior U.S. diplomat involved in the negotiation of every major international arms control and non-proliferation agreement during that time. This includes the SALT, START, ABM, INF, NPT, CFE and CTBT Treaties. Amb. Graham Jr. has served with the U.S. Arms Control and Disarmament Agency and as the Special Representative of the President of the United States for Arms Control, Non-Proliferation, and Disarmament, in which role he successfully led U.S. government efforts to achieve the permanent extension of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Amb. Graham Jr. has been an Independent Director of the Company since 2007 and Chair of the Company since 2011. He was appointed as a member of the International Advisory Board for the nuclear program of the United Arab Emirates in December 2009 and was Executive Chairman of Lightbridge Corporation, formerly Thorium Power, Ltd. (2006 - 2024) and is currently serving as Chairman of the Board of Mexco Energy Corporation (July 1997 - present). CanAlaska CEO, Cory Belyk, comments; "I take this opportunity to thank Amb. Graham Jr. for his leadership as Chair of the Company all these years. It has been a pleasure working with Amb. Graham Jr. since I took over the CEO role and I look forward to our continued interaction on the Board. In addition, it is with great pleasure that I welcome Ms. Lloyd to Chair of the Company. Among many qualities, Karen brings tremendous knowledge from her extensive experience in uranium marketing at one of the world's most important full-cycle nuclear companies, Cameco Corporation, and I am very pleased to be teaming up with Karen again. As with Karen, it is with great pleasure I welcome Mr. Shircliff to the Board of the Company. I have known Shane for many years and it has been a true pleasure working with him on the Advisory Board of the Company since 2021. I have great respect for his guidance and expertise as the Company moves through an unprecedented transformational period. I look forward to working with Karen and Shane to move CanAlaska's ultra high-grade Pike Zone discovery story forward in an ever-strengthening uranium market built on solid fundamentals that I have never observed in my 30 years in the nuclear field." About CanAlaska Uranium CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7) holds interests in approximately 500,000 hectares (1,235,000 acres) in Canada's Athabasca Basin. CanAlaska's strategic holdings have attracted major international mining companies. CanAlaska is currently working with Cameco on the West McArthur JV project and Denison on the Moon Lake South JV project in the Eastern Athabasca Basin. CanAlaska is a project generator positioned for discovery success in the world's richest uranium district. The Company also holds properties prospective for nickel, copper, gold and diamonds. For further information visit www.canalaska.com. The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is Nathan Bridge, MSc., P. Geo., Vice-President Exploration for CanAlaska Uranium Ltd., who has reviewed and approved its contents. On behalf of the Board of Directors "Cory Belyk" Cory Belyk, P.Geo., FGC CEO, President and Director CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking information All statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. In addition, these statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will prove inaccurate, certain of which are beyond the Company's control. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend to revise or update these forward-looking statements after the date hereof or revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218759 SOURCE: CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - SALAZAR RESOURCES LIMITED (TSXV: SRL) (OTCQB: SRLZF) (FSE: CCG) ("Salazar" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that its new partner at the Curipamba project is Silvercorp Metals Inc. ("Silvercorp"), which has recently completed its acquisition of Adventus Mining. This marks a significant milestone in the Company's growth trajectory and a commitment to advancing the mining industry, the El Domo deposit and its other JV properties in Ecuador. This exciting collaboration represents a key opportunity for both companies to leverage their respective strengths and resources to enhance exploration, development, and operational efficiencies in the mining sector. By combining Salazar's innovative approach and Silvercorp's extensive experience and technical expertise, this partnership is poised to drive substantial advancements and create significant value for shareholders and stakeholders alike. Fredy E. Salazar, President & CEO of Salazar, expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership: "We are delighted to welcome Silvercorp as our new strategic partner. This collaboration will not only enhance our operational capabilities but also provide a platform for expanded exploration and development opportunities. Silvercorp's proven track record and shared vision align perfectly with our strategic goals, and we look forward to achieving new milestones together." Rui Feng, Chairman & CEO of Silvercorp, echoed this sentiment: "Partnering with Salazar is an exciting development for Silvercorp. Salazar's innovative approach and impressive portfolio complement our own strengths, and together we are well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the Ecuadorian mining sector. We are eager to begin this partnership and work collaboratively towards our mutual goals." The partnership will focus on exploring synergies across various projects and initiatives, with a particular emphasis on optimizing resource development and enhancing operational efficiency. Both companies are committed to advancing sustainable practices and maintaining the highest standards of environmental stewardship. About Salazar Salazar Resources Limited is focused on creating value and positive change through discovery, exploration, and development in Ecuador. The team has an unrivalled understanding of the geology in-country and has played an integral role in the discovery of many of the major projects in Ecuador, including the two newest operating gold and copper mines. Salazar Resources has a wholly owned pipeline of copper-gold exploration projects across Ecuador with a strategy to make another commercial discovery and farm-out non-core assets. The Company actively engages with Ecuadorian communities and together with the Salazar family it co-founded The Salazar Foundation, an independent non-profit organization dedicated to sustainable progress through economic development. The Company already has carried interests in three projects. At its maiden discovery, Curipamba, Salazar Resources has a 25% stake fully carried through to production. At two copper-gold porphyry projects, Pijili and Santiago, the Company has a 20% stake fully carried through to a construction decision. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218968 SOURCE: Salazar Resources Limited UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Monday called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to fully respect Sudan's judicial sovereignty and legitimate concerns when processing the Darfur case. "China has been closely following the International Criminal Court investigation into the situation in Darfur," said Dai Bing, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, in remarks at the UN Security Council briefing on ICC Sudan. Dai said China welcomes the prosecutor's reference in his report to the Sudanese government's cooperation with the prosecution on the Darfur case, granting visas to the prosecution team, and responding to a number of requests for assistance. When processing the cases on its docket, the ICC should continue to be guided by the Rome Statute and the mandate of the Security Council, strictly abide by the principle of complementarity, exercise its powers independently, objectively, impartially, and in accordance with the law, and "fully respect the judicial sovereignty and legitimate concerns of Sudan," he said. Dai stressed that China has always advocated a political solution, which is "the only viable way to end the conflict and restore peace," noting that the recent proximity talks in Geneva between the two parties to the conflict and a planning retreat in Djibouti of principal mediators have created a positive momentum for international mediation and diplomacy. "The international community should, as a matter of priority, use the political and diplomatic toolboxes available properly to encourage parties to have more dialogue, resolve their differences properly, and deescalate the tensions until a comprehensive ceasefire is in place," the Chinese envoy said. He urged the ICC, when dealing with the Darfur issue, to take into full account the complexity and sensitivity of realities in Sudan and the region as a whole, set its sights on the overarching goal of diffusing the conflict in Sudan politically, tread carefully, and refrain from "unwarranted intervention." China supports Sudan's efforts to improve its administration of justice and develop its national capacity to combat impunity, Dai noted, calling on the international community to address in earnest the practical difficulties facing Sudan. "China's position on the ICC remains unchanged," he said, adding, "China hopes that when handling cases involving international and regional hotspot issues, the Court will refrain from politicization and double standards, apply international law equitably, and be a genuinely constructive force." "The Critical Minerals and ZEO Company" United States Antimony Corporation ("USAC", or the "Company"), (NYSE American:UAMY) announced today the Appointment of Fred L. "Pete" Bunger to become a new Technical Advisory Director to the Board and management team. Pete is the founder and President of ZEO, Inc. since 1982. His company is one of the largest customers of Bear River Zeolite, our wholly-owned subsidiary active in zeolite mining and processing in Idaho. His company is involved in product development and marketing of natural zeolites and allied products to both domestic and international wholesale markets. ZEO, Inc. products include: Water Filtration ZeoSand Filter Media - Natural Zeolite Ruby Sand Filter Media - Calcined Clay ZeoFiber Filter Media - Cellulose Fiber Private Label Animal Feed ZAR-MIN Feed Additive ZMC-100 Feed Additive Private Label Soil EcoSand Soil Amendment Specialty Products Z-Ox Greensand Replacement Z-Ultra Anticaking Agent ZeoShield Antimicrobial Zeolite Zeo Plus Organo Zeolite Mr. Bunger previously held various positions and was General Manager at Occidental Petroleum from 1978 until 1982, when he started his own company. He was also previously employed at DuPont from 1967-1978 in various R&D activities. Mr. Bunger received his B.S. in Chemistry, Physics, and Math in 1963 from Austin Peay State University. He subsequently received his Ph.D. in 1967 from the University of North Carolina. His major was Inorganic Chemistry with a minor in Analytical Chemistry. Commenting on Mr. Bunger's appointment, Mr. Gary C. Evans, Chairman & Co-CEO stated, "I have gotten to know both Pete and his wife Robin over the last year and one-half. He has been an invaluable asset and sounding board to me and many members of our management team. He has taught me more about zeolite and its incredible properties and applications than I could ever have imagined. He is undoubtedly the "zeolite expert" in the U.S. and likely around the world. We are currently working on a new zeolite product together that could have significant growth potential. Once our patents are properly filed, we will be in a position to disclose these activities. Pete has also assisted us in our Washington D.C. lobbying efforts and brings tremendous credibility to us due to his knowledge and vast experience. As a new Technical Advisory Director to U.S. Antimony Corporation, our close working relationship is further solidified." Responding to this new Technical Advisory Director position with the Company, Fred L. "Pete" Bunger said, "As Technical Advisory Director at U.S. Antimony Corporation, I look forward to focusing on innovation and further developing the vast potential of natural zeolite. This role offers an incredible opportunity to collaborate with a highly professional team dedicated to growing the business based on zeolite's unique properties and applications. For more than forty years, my vision for zeolite's remarkable capabilities has driven me to explore new frontiers. I am excited to continue this pursuit with a company that shares this enthusiasm and vision. Working alongside Mr. Gary C. Evans and the talented members of U.S. Antimony's management team has already been a rewarding experience. I am eager to contribute my expertise to advance our shared vision of pioneering innovative zeolite products and further developing the existing business. Together, we will further unlock the full potential of natural zeolites, driving growth and delivering groundbreaking, sustainable solutions to industries worldwide. I look forward to this new chapter and am committed to achieving success in our endeavors." About USAC: United States Antimony Corporation and its subsidiaries in the U.S. and Mexico ("USAC", the "Company", "Our", "Us", or "We") sell processed antimony, zeolite, and precious metals products in the U.S. and Canada. The Company processes antimony ore primarily into antimony oxide, antimony metal, and antimony trisulfide. Our antimony oxide is used to form a flame-retardant system for plastics, rubber, fiberglass, textile goods, paints, coatings and paper, as a color fastener in paint, and as a phosphorescent agent in fluorescent light bulbs. Our antimony metal is used in bearings, storage batteries, and ordnance. Our antimony trisulfide is used as a primer in ammunition. In its operations in Idaho, the Company mines and processes zeolite, a group of industrial minerals used in soil amendment and fertilizer, water filtration, sewage treatment, nuclear waste and other environmental cleanup, odor control, gas separation, animal nutrition, and other miscellaneous applications. We recover certain amounts of precious metals, primarily gold and silver, at our plant in Montana from antimony concentrates.? Forward-Looking Statements: Readers should note that, in addition to the historical information contained herein, this press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of, and intended to be covered by, the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are based upon current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effects on the Company including matters related to the Company's operations, pending contracts and future revenues, financial performance, and profitability, ability to execute on its increased production and installation schedules for planned capital expenditures, and the size of forecasted deposits. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and the assumptions upon which they are based are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations and assumptions will prove to have been correct. The reader is cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, as these statements are subject to numerous factors and uncertainties. In addition, other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are discussed in the Company's most recent filings, including Form 10-K and Form 10-Q with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "outlook," "estimate," "forecast," "project," "pro forma" and other similar words and expressions. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which change over time. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Because forward-looking statements are subject to assumptions and uncertainties, actual results or future events could differ, possibly materially, from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements and future results could differ materially from historical performance. CONTACT: United States Antimony Corp. PO Box 643 47 Cox Gulch Rd. Thompson Falls, Montana 59873-0643 E-Mail: Jmiller@usantimony.com Phone: 813-505-0674 SOURCE: United States Antimony Corporation View the original press release on accesswire.com Wellington Management leads the funding round as the company surpasses $200M in ARR in only five years, continuing its 100%+ YOY growth trajectory Abnormal Security, the leader in AI-native human behavior security, today announced the close of its Series D funding round, with total expected proceeds of $250 million at a $5.1 billion valuation. The current round brings the total expected proceeds to $546 million and is led by Wellington Management, with participation from existing investors Greylock Partners, Menlo Ventures, Insight Partners and CrowdStrike Falcon Fund.The latest infusion of capital will enable the company to continue its mission of protecting humans from cybercrime through the power of AI, understanding human behavior to detect and prevent today's most dangerous socially-engineered attacks. Today's email and cloud account breaches are rooted in tactics that exploit human behavior, and today's enterprises are increasingly susceptible. In particular, the rise of generative AI has enabled even petty criminals to create highly-sophisticated attacks at scale, and the interconnected nature of the cloud ecosystem gives unconstrained access to all connected accounts. The result is an increase in widespread data breaches with extensive financial and reputational consequences. To prevent this threat, Abnormal Security takes a unique approach to understanding human behavior. In order to protect humans with AI, the platform connects via API to analyze thousands of signals from multiple data sets and precisely baseline known behavior. Autonomous AI models then enable Abnormal to precisely detect anomalous activity and stop never-before-seen attacks with superhuman speed and accuracy-understanding human behavior better than humans to protect humans better than humans. In addition to providing email security for Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, Abnormal also delivers uniform multi-platform defense for more than a dozen cloud infrastructure and SaaS applications including Workday, Salesforce, ServiceNow, Slack and Amazon Web Services. The new investment follows years of exponential growth as Abnormal Security continues to see 100%+ year-over-year increases in annual recurring revenue, recently crossing $200 million in ARR. More than 2,400 organizations already trust Abnormal to protect their employees, including 17% of the Fortune 500. Since last August, Abnormal has expanded further into Europe, Asia and Australia and is continuing the process of becoming FedRAMP compliant. Supporting Quotes Evan Reiser, CEO and cofounder, Abnormal Security: "We are relentless in fulfilling our mission of protecting humans with AI, and we've earned the trust of our customers by providing the best product in human behavior security. This funding allows us to further invest in our human behavior AI platform to protect more people across their everyday applications, while enabling customers to accelerate their AI initiatives with autonomous AI solutions." Rob Mazzoni, Wellington Management: "The early success of Abnormal Security is impressive, with the platform well-positioned to address the vast human behavior and identity-centric cybersecurity challenges we're facing today. Abnormal offers significant value to CISOs, contributing to the company's rise toward market leadership in only a few years. We believe Abnormal has the potential to become a generational company known worldwide, and we're thrilled to be leading this round as the company sets its sights on the public market." Saam Motamedi, Greylock Partners: "Abnormal Security was built using AI from the very beginning, understanding the potential of AI in cybersecurity when few others did. Their platform solves real customer problems, with thousands of happy customers. We're proud to have partnered with Abnormal since its inception, and have strong conviction in the company's ability to leverage AI to solve the next wave of cyber threats targeting humans." Rodney Masney, CIO, O-I Glass: "Attackers continue to rely on the natural human tendency to trust digital communications and use social engineering tactics to target my employees. Abnormal Security has solved this problem with its AI capabilities, putting trust back into our organization and freeing my security team to work on other pressing issues. As the arms race between malicious AI and defensive AI continues, I trust Abnormal to keep innovating and protecting O-I Glass from the evolving threat landscape." Related Links Discover what this funding round means for customers in this blog post. Learn more about the product portfolio on our Products page. Check out open positions and apply to join the team on our Careers website. About Abnormal Security Abnormal Security is the leading AI-native human behavior security platform, leveraging machine learning to stop sophisticated inbound attacks and detect compromised accounts across email and connected applications. The anomaly detection engine leverages identity and context to understand human behavior and analyze the risk of every cloud email event-detecting and stopping sophisticated, socially-engineered attacks that target the human vulnerability. You can deploy Abnormal in minutes with an API integration for Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace and experience the full value of the platform instantly. Additional protection is available for Slack, Workday, Salesforce, ServiceNow, Zoom, Amazon Web Services and multiple other cloud applications. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806031539/en/ Contacts: Jade Hill Director of Communications media@abnormalsecurity.com KNIME, one of the leading open-source data science and AI companies, has raised additional funding from its longstanding investor Invus. Since the last announcement, Invus invested another $30M, bringing total funding to $50M. This will allow KNIME, as the only open-source, low-code data science company on the market, to double down on development of its enterprise-grade AI governance and ModelOps capabilities, while continuing to stay ahead of the rapid innovation in the field. Since 2017, KNIME has grown revenue to 30M, at 30-40% per year and is now serving nearly 400 customers with a team of 250 employees worldwide. The KNIME user base includes nearly half a million people, making it the largest low-code data science community in the world. As a truly horizontal platform, KNIME counts customers across all industries and regions, enabling companies such as ASML, Audi, AMD, Lilly, Novartis, Bayer, Sanofi, Genentech, the FDA, P&G, Mercedes-Benz, and others. KNIME has recently achieved ISO 27001 certification, meeting the highest global information security standards for enterprises and evidencing KNIME's commitment to protecting the data of its users. The company's open-source approach removes virtually all barriers to entry, while keeping the platform adaptive to the needs of a market that is evolving at unprecedented speed. "With our open-source community, we are able to provide KNIME users intuitive access to a wealth of state-of-the-art techniques," says Michael Berthold, co-founder and CEO of KNIME. Mario Kaloustian, Managing Director at Invus adds: "KNIME enables fast, widespread data science and AI adoption, with centralized governance and ModelOps capabilities. This model answers the key question for the C-suite of every company: How do we accelerate innovation with GenAI while managing associated risks? Invus has proudly accompanied KNIME since 2017 and is thrilled to continue doing so." The investment comes at a pivotal moment as organizations face mounting pressure to minimize the risks associated with GenAI, while maximizing its impact. The comprehensive revamp of both core components of the KNIME offering answers this need. KNIME Analytics Platform is now cloud- and browser-ready and benefits from a new UX/UI, speeding up the learning curve for beginners and improving productivity for advanced users. KNIME Analytics Platform also includes K-AI, an AI assistant that helps users get started or add advanced functionality to their data projects. The commercial enterprise-grade KNIME Business Hub has been re-engineered from the ground up as well, to facilitate automation, collaboration, deployment, and governance of analytical and AI models. Additionally, KNIME introduced a SaaS offering, the Team Plan for KNIME Community Hub, enabling small organizations to automate their workflows with a flexible pay-as-you-go plan. "Given the traction we're experiencing in a booming market, we decided to take on additional funding to answer the growing demand for our end-to-end data science and AI platform. This is an incredible opportunity to accelerate data-driven innovation for our community, leveraging the drastic developments happening in the field," says Berthold. About KNIME KNIME is the leading open-source data science and AI platform, with 400 customers and nearly half a million users. KNIME helps everybody make sense of data. Its free and open-source KNIME Analytics Platform enables anyone whether they come from a business, technical or data background to intuitively work with data, every day. KNIME Hub is the commercial complement to KNIME Analytics Platform and enables users to automate workflows, collaborate on data science and AI projects, and share insights across the organization. Collectively, the products allow teams at all levels of analytics readiness to support the operationalization of data and to build a scalable data science and AI practice. Learn more at www.knime.com. About Invus Founded in 1985, Invus makes equity investments in transformational opportunities in both private and public companies. The firm is active across a range of industries including consumer and retail, technology, and healthcare. Invus has over $10 billion under management in an evergreen structure enabling a long-term horizon with offices in New York, Paris, Hong Kong and Singapore. Learn more at www.invus.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806957885/en/ Contacts: Marissa Pasillas Walker Sands for KNIME knime@walkersands.com Advancing the First New Natural-Flake Graphite Mine in the Americas this Century VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / SOUTH STAR BATTERY METALS CORP. ("South Star" or the "Company") (TSXV: STS )(OTCQB: STSBF ) is pleased to announce that, further to the Company's May 6, 2024 announcement (" South Star Battery Metals Announces the First Sale of Natural Flake Graphite Concentrate from its Santa Cruz Graphite Mine in Brazil ") and its August 1, 2024 announcement (" South Star Announces Successful Product Qualification and 100-Tonne Sale of Natural Flake Graphite Concentrate to U.S. Customer "), South Star has executed another binding commercial sales agreement (the "Agreement") for an initial 40 tonnes (more than 88,000 pounds) of natural-flake graphite concentrate from the Company's flagship Santa Cruz Graphite Mine("Santa Cruz"), located in northeastern Brazil's Bahia state. This most recent sales Agreement was formally executed with a prominent American industrial graphite customer (the "U.S. Client"). The U.S. Client has also expressed interest in negotiating regular purchases, pending positive test results for specific applications. For competitive reasons, the U.S. Client's identity and commercial details of the Agreement will remain confidential. As announced by the Company on July 29, 2024 (" South Star Announces Substantial Completion and Commissioning of the Santa Cruz Phase 1 Graphite Mine in Brazil "), South Star is on schedule to commission the Santa Cruz Phase 1 Plant during Q3 2024. Once commercial production commences, Santa Cruz will be the first new graphite mine in the Americas this century. At steady-state, the Phase 1 Plant will produce approximately 1,000 tonnes per month/12,000 tonnes per annum of natural-flake graphite concentrates. South Star plans to fulfill initial sales agreements in Q4 2024. South Star President and CEO Richard Pearce stated, "We are extremely pleased to continue to develop long-term partnerships in the U.S. as we continue to execute on our business plan. South Star's phased commercialization approach is predicated on effectively leveraging our first-mover advantage, providing our customers with a broad range of products for a variety of industry sectors and applications." "As part of our upcoming National Instrument 43-101-guided ("N.I. 43-101") Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") technical report for the BamaStar Graphite Project - located in Coosa County, Alabama, USA, in the historic, past-producing 'Alabama Graphite Belt' [1] - we have produced several value-added battery-graphite samples, with preliminary electrochemical testing, currently underway," commented Mr. Pearce. "We intend to advance into downstream battery-graphite markets quickly with phased, modular builds, in order to scale operations as demand grows. Our long-term strategic plan is to have a vertically integrated battery-graphite manufacturing plant - located in the United States - with flake graphite concentrate feedstocks produced from two mines, producing a combined 100,000 tonnes per year of high-quality concentrates. Our team is working hard to fill out the order book for Santa Cruz's Phase 1 production, while providing South Star with the graphite concentrate feedstock needed to rapidly advance our planned suite of battery-graphite products." South Star's immediate go-to-market commercial strategy is to produce high-quality graphite concentrates for various industrial applications and sectors. Concurrently, technical product-development programs are continuing to advance the Company's downstream product suite for value-added applications, specifically, specialty battery-graphite products - including Coated Spherical Purified Graphite ("CSPG" or "Active Anode Material") for large-scale lithium-ion ("Li-ion") battery applications and conductivity-enhancement products - applicable to all commercial primary and secondary battery chemistries. Initial production and commercial sales of value-add products are planned for Q4 2026. The Company looks forward to updating the market on the progress of developments with other potential customers as soon as details are finalized. On behalf of the South Star Battery Metals Corp. Board of Directors, (s) MR. RICHARD L. PEARCE, Jr., P.E. President, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director # # # QUALIFIED PERSON Mr. Richard L. Pearce, P.E., President, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of South Star Battery Metals Corp., is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 guidelines, and has reviewed and approved the content of this news release. ABOUT SOUTH STAR BATTERY METALS CORP. South Star Battery Metals Corp. ("South Star") is a Canadian battery-metals project developer focused on the selective acquisition and development of near-term production projects in the Americas. South Star's Santa Cruz Graphite Project, located in Southern Bahia, Brazil is the first of a series of industrial- and battery-metals projects that will be put into production. Brazil is the second-largest graphite-producing region in the world with more than 80 years of continuous mining. Santa Cruz has at-surface mineralization in friable materials, and successful large-scale pilot-plant testing (>30 tonnes) has been completed. The results of the testing show that approximately 65% of graphite concentrate is +80 mesh with good recoveries and 95%-99% graphitic carbon ("Cg"). With excellent infrastructure and logistics, South Star is fully funded for Phase 1, and the construction and commissioning are underway. Santa Cruz will be the first new graphite production in the Americas since 1996, with Phase 1 commercial production projected in Q3 2024. Phase 2 production (25,000 tonnes per year) is partially funded and planned for 2026, while Phase 3 (50,000 tonnes per year) is scheduled for 2028. South Star's second project in the development pipeline is strategically located in Alabama in the center of a developing electric-vehicle, aerospace, and defense hub in the southeastern United States. The BamaStar Project includes a historic mine active during the First and Second World Wars. An N.I. 43-101 guided technical report with the maiden resource estimate has been filed on SEDAR. Trenching, Phase 1 drilling, sampling, analysis, and preliminary metallurgical testing have been completed. The testing included a traditional crush/grind/flotation concentration circuit that achieved grades of approximately 94-97% Cg with approximately 86% recoveries. South Star is executing on its plan to create a multi-asset, diversified battery-metals company with near-term operations in strategic jurisdictions. South Star trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol STS, and on the OTCQB under the symbol STSBF. South Star is committed to a corporate culture, project execution plan and safe operations that embrace the highest standards of ESG principles, based on transparency, stakeholder engagement, ongoing education, and stewardship. Learn more by visiting www.southstarbatterymetals.com For additional information, please contact: SOUTH STAR INVESTOR RELATIONS Email invest@southstarbatterymetals.com Phone +1 (604) 706-0212 Website www.southstarbatterymetals.com SOCIAL MEDIA LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/southstarbatterymetals/ Twitter https://twitter.com/southstarbm YouTube South Star Battery Metals YouTube Channel Facebook https://www.facebook.com/southstarbatterymetals FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to statements regarding moving Santa Cruz into production and scaling operations as well as advancing the Alabama project, and the Company's plans and expectations. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS PRESS RELEASE. [1] Cameron, Eugene N. & Weis, Paul L., "Strategic Graphite, A Survey" (Washington, DC: United States Bureau of Mines report; Bulletin 1082-E, 1960): 260 - 266, United States Geological Survey (USGS) publications website: https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/b1082E (accessed August 4, 2024) SOURCE: South Star Battery Metals Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com Miami, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - The latest addition is a popular cloud-hosting service that major brands have used since 2003, though the company has only recently partnered with LinkDaddy. This recent development enables clients to have their content posted on the new provider's cloud computing network, which is known for its high domain authority, and capacity to help business owners rank higher in the search results. More information about cloud authority backlinks, content creation, and the new partnership can be found at https://linkdaddy.com/cloud-authority-backlinks LinkDaddy To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/218984_554c1d9ba44ca8fa_002full.jpg Using high-authority cloud backlinks, small businesses can often increase their domain authority, and rank higher in the search results, even for highly competitive search terms. As such, LinkDaddy's backlink program helps business owners to handle the entire process, including generating high-quality content and having it placed on trusted, cloud-based hosting services. As the world's largest edge network, the newly added provider can often deliver content with faster loading times, and more reliability, because an edge network does not have to send information as far as standard cloud computing solutions. The company uses innovative and constantly updated technology to help business owners expand their reach to a global scale. Using these high-authority servers, LinkDaddy posts a wide range of content about small business clients, helping them to build their domain authority by generating interesting, trustworthy, and relevant websites. Each time a new website goes live online, with backlinks to a client's website, the search algorithms crawl that page and give the brand a cumulative boost in the rankings. Although not every brand can rank at the top of the search results for every keyword, LinkDaddy continuously monitors its backlinks and progress for each client, and provides regular reports. Clients can choose from a range of backlinking options, including cloud authority links, DoFollow links, keyword links, or local SEO. As LinkDaddy explains, "Backlinks play a crucial role in improving your website's SEO. They help build trust and popularity of your site. When authoritative websites link to yours, it serves as a vote of confidence and increases the credibility of your site." More information about LinkDaddy backlinks and how high authority backlinks can improve search engine rankings can be found at https://linkdaddy.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218984 SOURCE: Plentisoft Woodstock, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - Joshua Gold Resources Inc (OTC Pink: JSHG) is pleased to announce that its geologic team has returned from a re-introductory sampling program at its Tecumseh Property in Davis Township in northern Ontario, north-east of Sudbury. 34 samples consisting of rock and soil were collected over 3 days during the July 2024 program and sent for laboratory analysis. JSHG is eagerly awaiting these results and will share the findings when they become available. Along with the compilation of historic exploration records, the pending sample results will help guide the company's exploration strategy at the Tecumseh property. The analysis of the most recent samples could pave the way for exciting new opportunities for JSHG and will help to provide a foundation for future trenching and drilling programs at the site. The roughly 217 acre, four-cell Tecumseh site is a long-held property within the JSHG portfolio. It is located approximately 26 miles east-northeast of Sudbury, Ontario (or about 51 miles by easily accessible road). The site has attracted the interest of numerous operators since the 1920s, while its mineral potential remains overwhelmingly unrealized (in part due to the limitations of the exploration methods used at the time). Following its most recent sampling program, JSHG is enthusiastic about the opportunity to leverage the cutting-edge analytical techniques available and use modern exploration methods to unlock the full potential of this historically promising site. Historic Highlights: Compilation of all previously reported surface quartz vein grab samples at the property from 2011 to 2020 averaged 14.1 g/t Au (uncut, n = 52, g/t = grams per tonne) or 0.41 oz/t Au, with 54% of samples returning greater than 1 g/t Au (0.03 oz/t), and 23% of samples greater than 10 g/t Au (0.23 oz/t), with a maximum value of 209 g/t Au (6.10 oz/t). Eight large composite grab samples (roughly 9 to 10 pounds each) collected from the trenches by local prospector R. Cyr in 1996 averaged 39.7 g/t Au (1.16 oz/t). More About the JSHG Tecumseh Property: The Tecumseh property is primarily underlain by Precambrian rocks consisting of Huronian sediments. These were intruded by Nipissing gabbro sills and dikes. The Grenville Front lies just south of the property, however, the numerous documented gold occurrences in the district (including the historical Au-Cu-Co Scadding Mine) may be genetically related to the older Yavapai Orogeny. Structurally, the site sits between two prominent northwest-trending faults: the Washagami Lake Fault and the McLaren Lake Fault. Both of these are secondary splays from the main east-west trending Ess Lake Fault. The property features an array of auriferous quartz-carbonate-hematite-mica-sulphide veins occurring over an area of approximately 800 feet by 2,300 feet. These strike northwest-southeast (120-140 degrees), and are hosted in a shallowly dipping gabbro sill. Exploratory History: Gold was first reported on the property during the 1920s to 1930s, during which time several shafts or pits were emplaced, however no historical records exist. The property appears to have been left idle until 1959 when Black Crow Mines undertook a self-potential geophysical survey and completed 4 shallow drill holes. Work resumed intermittently from 1975 to 1988 by various operators. It consisted of geological and geophysical surveys, extensive surface trenching and sampling, and thirty shallow, small-diameter diamond drill holes (BQ at maximum = 1 7/16" core diameter). During this time the currently known system of auriferous veins were delineated, principally by trenching, along seven main trends (termed then from "A" to "G"), with individual veins attaining widths of a couple of inches to as much as 8 feet (approximately). Notably, some vein trends host as many as eight parallel sub-veins. The veins host accessory sulphide from trace amounts to locally semi-massive vugs of pyrite, pyrrhotite, and chalcopyrite. Historical operators judged the veins to be overly "nuggety" for gold, which hampered surficial trench sampling. This may also help explain why many of the narrow-diameter historical drill holes did not encounter high-grade gold at shallow depths. Map 1: Location of quartz vein grab samples collected on the property since 2011 (as listed in Table 1 and Table 2) by operator. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6845/218763_8f14400ec44f09f1_001full.jpg Historic Grab Sample Analysis: In preparation for the current exploration program, an initial compilation of historical data was undertaken. From assessment files and internal reports, "modern-era" surface grab samples (keeping in mind the inherent potential sampling bias of grab samples) were compiled from work by R. Cyr in 1996, Trueclaim Exploration in 2011, Vision Prospecting in 2019, and JSHG in 2020 (Map 1). The eight samples taken by Cyr (Table 1) were all over-sized (roughly 9 to 10 pounds each) to mitigate the nugget issue. These ranged from 11.6 g/t Au to 69.5 g/t Au (0.34 oz/t to 2.03 oz/t), averaging 39.7 g/t Au (1.16 oz/t). The fifty-two "normal-sized" (approximately 1 to 3 pounds) quartz vein grab samples collected from 2011 to 2020 returned an uncut average of 14.1 g/t Au (0.41 oz/t), ranging from 0.002 g/t Au to 209 g/t Au (0.00006 oz/t to 6.1 oz/t), with 77% of the samples greater than 0.1 g/t Au (0.003 oz/t), 54% of the samples greater than 1 g/t Au (0.03 oz/t), and 23% greater than 10 g/t Au (0.29 oz/t). For clarity, it should be noted that the forty-one Trueclaim samples and the six Vision samples were prepared using standard crushing and pulverizing, while the five JSHG samples were processed by the laboratory using the "screen metallic" method before assaying, also to mitigate the nugget effect. Where analyzed, these combined samples also returned up to 12 g/t silver (0.35 oz/t), 1.53% copper, and 0.038% cobalt. Future rock and core sampling work will continue to be evaluated using the screen metallic method, which was not routinely used in the past (other than by JSHG in 2020). Another focus will be on evaluating how auriferous the altered gabbro intervals between the quartz veins are, as historical work largely focused on sampling the veins. Where altered gabbros have been sampled in the past, assays of 0.1 to 0.4 g/t Au (0.003 oz/t to 0.01 oz/t) have been reported. If vein density and grade prove sufficient, consideration of a bulk open-pit mining scenario may be warranted. Matt Rees, formerly Chief Geologist at IAMGOLD Corp. is leading the geological team and comments, "The high-grade gold values observed to date are very encouraging, and certainly indicate a fertile mineralizing system. It remains to be discovered if the system is better focused on the eastern gabbro-sediment contact, which may be structural but is covered beneath an extensive beaver pond for most of its more than half-mile strike length across the property. We may also find that the system is better developed directly beneath the known vein array, hosted in the sediments that are footwall to the gabbro sill." Ben Fuschino, President and CEO of JSHG further comments: "I believe we have the right team and the right property with our Tecumseh site. Given the numerous high-grade gold veins on the property, we are very keen to see how the exploration program unfolds." Table 1 - Analytical results from over-sized (roughly 9 to 10 pounds each) surface grab samples collected by R. Cyr in 1996: TABLE 1 Sample_ID Easting Northing Au_ppm Ag_ppm Co_% Cu_% Comment E654 536233 5170016 37.715 11.3 0.008 0.81 mostly from E6 trench E1A 536252 5169907 69.464 5.8 0.038 0.13 southern E1 trench E1 536221 5169938 39.086 8 0.01 0.72 northern E1 trench E 536262 5169885 18.24 4.4 0.012 0.43 southern E trench F 536283 5169830 56.16 4.6 0.013 0.31 south-east F trench O 536158 5169914 60.412 5.2 0.011 0.19 Ore Dump M na na 25.372 4 0.006 0.18 composite from various trenches M1 536234 5169847 11.452 2.7 0.008 0.19 northern F trench Table 2 - Analytical results for surface grab samples collected by various operators from 2011-2020 (VG = visible gold reported in the sample; TC = Trueclaim Exploration, VE = Vision Exploration, JSHG = Joshua Gold Resources; SM = Screen Metallics; ppm = g/t): TABLE 2 Sample No Easting Northing Au ppm Ag ppm Co ppm Cu ppm Sampler Comment Z061738 536225 5170090 0.035 1 19 596 TC Z061739 536188 5170060 1.025 0.5 53 162 TC Z061740 536235 5170022 0.007 0.5 22 70 TC Z061741 536235 5170022 0.002 0.5 30 91 TC Z061742 536233 5170013 0.273 1 24 396 TC Z061743 536240 5170007 0.051 0.5 34 1318 TC Z061744 536238 5170010 0.361 3 22 1414 TC Z061745 536227 5170004 37.141 10 33 9873 TC VG Z061746 536225 5169977 0.017 0.5 63 191 TC Z061747 536216 5169977 2.708 0.5 20 291 TC Z061748 536216 5169977 0.975 0.5 11 146 TC Z061749 536208 5169952 0.979 0.5 28 197 TC Z061750 536216 5169977 2.041 0.5 34 783 TC Z061751 536216 5169977 0.055 0.5 2 81 TC VG Z061752 536208 5169952 22.471 12 14 732 TC Z061753 536235 5169903 16.318 4 40 3098 TC Z061754 536264 5169890 0.009 0.5 4 77 TC VG Z061755 536278 5169880 0.706 0.5 34 924 TC Z061756 536223 5169908 15.42 1 3 24 TC Z061757 536218 5169918 0.251 0.5 45 515 TC Z061758 536216 5169912 2.31 0.5 19 113 TC Z061759 536185 5169912 82.518 5 152 818 TC VG Z061760 536195 5169912 0.273 2 11 117 TC Z061761 536195 5169912 9.887 1 48 248 TC Z061762 536195 5169912 17.107 2 27 178 TC Z061763 536195 5169912 2.914 0.5 16 90 TC Z061764 536175 5169839 0.046 0.5 2 10 TC Z061765 536181 5169821 0.012 0.5 2 9 TC Z061766 536250 5169816 1.073 0.5 5 95 TC Z061767 536222 5169797 0.023 0.5 17 17 TC Z061769 536299 5169744 0.002 0.5 12 20 TC Z061770 536268 5169794 7.619 0.5 10 43 TC Z061773 536208 5169916 59.063 2 61 1697 TC Z061774 536311 5169787 0.194 1 29 892 TC Z061775 536312 5169774 0.364 0.5 42 106 TC Z061776 536327 5169801 46.35 1 26 154 TC Z061777 536323 5169824 4.299 2 65 3128 TC Z061778 536300 5169828 11.132 9 284 15255 TC VG Z061780 536272 5169844 11.114 3 62 465 TC Z061781 536030 5169564 0.072 3 133 2085 TC Z061782 536007 5169602 0.982 4 102 2965 TC Q203001 536228 5170081 0.359 na na na VE Q203003 536187 5170063 1.3 na na na VE Q203004 536242 5170001 1.78 na na na VE Q203005 536233 5169935 209 na na na VE Q203006 536216 5169949 3.48 na na na VE Q203007 536237 5169868 5.73 na na na VE 378444 536232 5169934 140 10.3 20.3 6120 JSHG SM 378445 536217 5169939 0.35 0.15 13 466 JSHG SM 378446 536213 5169911 8.27 4.5 66 4380 JSHG SM 378447 536220 5169950 2.22 0.3 59 799 JSHG SM 378448 536262 5169894 4.49 1.6 78 1450 JSHG SM Matt Rees, M.Sc., P.Geo (ON) is a professional geologist and a "Qualified Person" and is responsible for the technical information contained in this news release. Joshua Gold Resources Inc. (OTC: JSHG) is a publicly traded American gold exploration company headquartered in Canada, engaged in the exploration of highly prospective properties. Joshua Gold's focus is to pinpoint mineral opportunities in Northern Ontario, Canada, a mature and friendly jurisdiction for exploration and mining companies. Northern Ontario is home to the two- to three-billion-year-old Canadian Shield which contains a wealth of minerals from nickel, gold, and copper, to cobalt, chromium, and lithium. For more on JSHG, please go to http://www.joshuagoldresources.com/. Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218763 SOURCE: Joshua Gold Resources Inc. Daniela Marten Rothe, a prominent figure in the Costa Rican art scene, joins forces with MIRAME Fine Art. This exciting collaboration aims to support Marten Rothe as her career gains international momentum and to elevate the profile of Costa Rican painting within the broader Latin American art scene. SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / MIRAME Fine Art, the premier online Costa Rican art gallery dedicated to supporting the nation's finest artists, celebrates the work of artist Marten Rothe. Promoting the nation's rich cultural heritage, MIRAME Fine Art connects artists with art lovers worldwide. Daniela Marten Rothe, Sensi Sprout Oil on Canvas Eroticism and Feminine Energy Marten Rothe's paintings explore themes of eroticism, tropicalism, and feminine energy, drawing inspiration from Anais Nin and artists, such as Georgia O'Keeffe. Rooted in Costa Rica's tropical environment, her subjects often feature flora, leaves, petals, creating a sensual dialogue between nature and sensuality. The Hatching Goddesses The 'Hatching Goddess' series represents a unique exploration of life cycles and creation. Each painting in this series is approached as a cosmic egg, embodying themes of birth and renewal. The incorporation of clay and other raw materials into the canvases, along with techniques such as cutting holes to reveal underlying layers, creates a textured, dynamic connection between the artwork and the viewer. Sensual Tropical Limbic: Interplay of Nature and Spirituality In the 'Sensual Tropical Limbic' series, Marten Rothe uses a vibrant palette and bold, erotic floral forms. These works, which often include elements of Costa Rica's flora as well as religious iconography, address issues of female sexual oppression. This series exemplifies her commitment to depicting the complexities of female experience through her art. Advocacy for Female Artists A Fine Arts graduate from the University of Costa Rica, Marten Rothe has garnered critical acclaim, including first prize at the CROMA Biennial in 2022. Beyond her personal achievements, she is a founding member of 'Quiero Pintar,' an initiative advocating for the recognition of living female artists. Her efforts highlight the importance of female representation and recognition in the art world. Her art speaks to the primal, sexual aspects of human existence, highlighting the transformative potential of feminine power. Invitation to Collect and Engage As Marten Rothe's work gains international recognition, MIRAME Fine Art invites you to explore her vision of Costa Rican art traditions and engage with her exploration of femininity and the human condition, all within the broader context of Central American art. A Strategic Collaboration MIRAME Fine Art and Marten Rothe are collaborating to elevate the global visibility of Costa Rican art. This partnership highlights the importance of Costa Rican erotic painting and encourages collectors to immerse themselves in the dynamic and evolving landscape of Latin American art. For further inquiries and acquisitions, visit MIRAME Fine Art's website. Contact Information Belinda Seppings Co-Founder belinda@miramefineart.com +447821591397 SOURCE: MIRAME Fine Art View the original press release on newswire.com. PBI will provide insurance coverage options for pet sitters, walkers, groomers, and boarders across 12 U.S. states Pet Business International (PBI), the exclusive provider of instant online insurance quotes for small to medium-sized pet businesses, launches in the U.S. today. PBI covers everything from dog walkers to groomers, pet-sitting services to boarders, and even horse sitters. The expansion into the U.S. kicks off in the following 12 states: Arizona, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, Connecticut, Florida, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah. "We're thrilled to enter the North American market and begin supporting the full range of pet businesses in the U.S.," said Shannah Cantillon, Director at PBI. "We're proud to support the businesses that care for our growing fur families, and making policies accessible with high-quality, low-premium plans is a key part of our commitment." As the industry continues to evolve, insurance is increasingly important for businesses to uphold care standards and build trust with customers. The global pet-sitting market is expected to double to $5.1 billion by 2030, with the U.S. accounting for the largest share at $1.6 billion. Yet, despite 66% of households owning pets in the U.S., the market for business-specific pet insurance remains largely untapped. Founded in the U.K. in 2000, PBl is a pioneer in pet business insurance operating in Australia, Ireland, Spain, Sweden, the U.K. and now the U.S. Channel partners include the Kennel Club in the UK and pet sitters' associations in Europe and Australia. PBI offers comprehensive coverage including general liability, accidents, and injury to and loss of animals, with optional extras such as professional liability, equipment coverage, and animal illness insurance. Coverage is open to anyone aged 16 and older who cares for third-party animals. Customers turn to PBI for ease, affordability, and reliability when it comes to selecting the best-in-class pet business insurance offering, and love the immediacy of the instant online quote. "Pet Business Insurance has been a pleasure to work with. The team is responsive and helpful, offering fair pricing and fast customer service. Highly recommended in our industry," said customer Chavanne Lyon of Dino Experience. With more than 20 years of industry experience and a 96% claims payout rate, PBI is committed to providing efficient claims handling specifically tailored to the unique needs of pet businesses. To learn more about pet business insurance options in the U.S., visit https://www.petbusinessinternational.com/. About Pet Business International Pet Business International specializes in providing insurance for small and medium-sized pet businesses that provide pet grooming, animal training, pet sitting, dog walking, boarding and more. For more information, please visit https://www.petbusinessinternational.com/. Pet Business International is a registered series of Mission Underwriting Managers, LLC. Mission Underwriting Managers, LLC is a licensed insurance agency, NPN 19970643, that sells various property and casualty insurance. Mission Underwriting Managers, LLC does business in California as Mission Specialty Risk Insurance Solutions License #6005417, in Nevada as Mission Specialty Risk Services, LLC, and in Utah as Mission Specialty Risk Services. For a full list of licenses, click here. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806034747/en/ Contacts: Kelly Reilly CMAND for Pet Business International kelly@cmand.co Program Targeting Increased Access to Affordable Care for Industry Workforce Supported by Kellogg and Packard Foundations MILPITAS, Calif. and WASHINGTON, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Seeking to bolster the semiconductor industry workforce in the U.S. by addressing gaps in child care needs, the SEMI Foundation and Policy Equity Group today announced a collaboration to help companies comply with child care requirements under the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act. The W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the David and Lucile Packard Foundation have agreed to fund the efforts as part of the larger Investing in America Child Care Partnership that leverages federal investments to shift policies and engagement around quality, accessible, and affordable child care. The SEMI Foundation and Policy Equity Group are seeking to work with early childhood education leaders in Arizona, Ohio, and Michigan to strengthen local child care systems, support employers in creating child care benefits that meet employee needs, and increase access to high-quality, affordable child care in communities that house America's growing semiconductor workforce. "Quality child care is critical to the current and future workforce of the semiconductor industry and to ultimately narrowing our talent gap," said Shari Liss, Executive Director of the SEMI Foundation. "The SEMI Foundation is honored to collaborate with Policy Equity Group and to be supported by the Kellogg and Packard Foundations to work toward systemic changes in child care, build community-based solutions, and conduct extensive industry outreach to potential workers who require quality child care." "For quite some time, the early childhood field has highlighted child care as essential infrastructure that supports worker productivity and economic growth," said Jeffrey Capizzano, President of the Policy Equity Group. "We are fortunate to work with the SEMI Foundation and our philanthropic partners to demonstrate how the business community can contribute to expanding child care capacity and quality in their communities." The funding and collaboration will involve activities including: Landscape analyses to assess the current state of the semiconductor workforce and the local early child care and education system Targeted outreach programs based on the landscape analysis to connect women and underrepresented minorities to the semiconductor workforce, while leveraging child care access as a critical support and attraction point Child care plans that meet CHIPS Act requirements and address the needs of semiconductor companies, with the goal of improving both the sustainability and capacity of local child care systems Resources and training materials to help employers advocate for child care in their states and provide support for their employees to identify and access affordable, high-quality child care options Documentation of the lessons learned that can inform replication and scaling across other communities, with a concerted focus on how a company's child care strategy can be supportive of supply-building across a community's early childhood ecosystem The SEMI Foundation is the non-profit arm of SEMI, the industry association representing the global semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing supply chain. The Foundation drives the SEMI Workforce Development program and provides connections to more than 3,000 member companies worldwide. About the Poicy Equity Group The Policy Equity Group's work focuses on building the capacity of socially conscious organizations that are dedicated to improving the lives of young children and their families. We collaborate with states, cities, and organizations to design and implement effective early care and education systems. Our methods ensure that early childhood policies and systems programs are sustainably and sufficiently funded, guided by stakeholder voices and data, and are powered by the collective efforts of all sectors that impact the lives of children and families. For more information about Policy Equity Group, visit https://policyequity.com/. About the SEMI Foundation The SEMI Foundation's mission is to support economic opportunity for workers and the sustained growth of the microelectronics industry through creating pathways and opportunities for job seekers and tools and systems for semiconductor companies to attract, develop, retain, and advance a diverse and skilled workforce. Visit the SEMI Foundation online to learn more, and follow the SEMI Foundation on LinkedIn. About SEMI SEMI?is the global industry association connecting over 3,000 member companies and 1.5 million professionals worldwide across the semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing supply chain. We accelerate member collaboration on solutions to top industry challenges through Advocacy, Workforce Development, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management and other programs. Our SEMICON? expositions and events, technology communities, standards and market intelligence help advance our members' business growth and innovations in design, devices, equipment, materials, services and software, enabling smarter, faster, more secure electronics. Visit?www.semi.org, contact a regional office, and connect with SEMI on?LinkedIn?and?X?to learn more. Organization Contacts Shanita Sims, Communications Manager Policy Equity Group communications@policyequity.com Michelle Williams-Vaden, Deputy & Sr. Director, Strategy & Partnerships SEMI Foundation 1.707.280.6795 mwilliams@semi.org Samer Bahou, Communications Director SEMI 1.408.943.7870 sbahou@semi.org Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2476029/SEMI_Foundation_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/new-semi-foundation-and-policy-equity-group-collaboration-earns-funding-to-address-semiconductor-industry-child-care-gaps-302215040.html The English text is an unofficial translation. In case of any discrepancies between the Swedish text and the English translation, the Swedish text shall prevail. LUND, Sweden, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The shareholders of Enzymatica AB (publ) (the "Company") held an extraordinary general meeting on 6 August 2024. At the extraordinary general meeting, the following resolutions, amongst others, were made. Approval of the board of directors' resolution on a rights issue of new shares The meeting resolved to approve the board of directors' resolution from 18 July 2024, to increase the Company's share capital by a maximum amount of SEK 2,774,117.32 through the issue of a maximum number of 69,352,888 shares. The shareholders of the Company shall have preferential rights to subscribe for the new shares in relation the number of shares previously held. For each share held on the record date, the shareholder receives one subscription right, whereby five (5) subscription rights entitle to subscribe for two (2) new shares. The record date for determining which shareholders shall be entitled to subscribe for new shares on a preferential basis shall be 26 August 2024. The subscription price is SEK 1.90 per share which in the case of full subscription provides issuing proceeds of up to approximately MSEK 131.8. Subscription for new shares by exercise of subscription rights shall be made by simultaneously cash payment during the period as from 28 August 2024 up to and including 11 September 2024. Subscription for new shares without the exercise of subscription rights shall take place during the same period on a separate subscription list. Payment for new shares subscribed for without the exercise of subscription rights shall be made in cash no later than on the second bank day from dispatch of the contract note setting forth the allotment of shares. Trading with subscription rights will take place during the period from 28 August 2024 until, and including 6 August 2024. Trading in BTA (Paid Subscribed Shares) will take place from 28 August 2024 until and including around 20 September 2024. For more detailed information regarding the content of the resolutions, please refer to the complete notice of the extraordinary general meeting and the Company's website, www.enzymatica.com. For more information, please contact: Claus Egstrand, CEO, Enzymatica AB Phone: +44 7780 22 8385 | Email: claus.egstrand@enzymatica.com This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/enzymatica-ab/r/bulletin-from-the-extraordinary-general-meeting-of-enzymatica-ab--publ--on-6-august-2024,c4021627 The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/18091/4021627/2934994.pdf Press release (PDF) View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bulletin-from-the-extraordinary-general-meeting-of-enzymatica-ab-publ-on-6-august-2024-302215545.html Sydney, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - Established gold producer Austral Gold Limited (ASX: AGD) (TSXV: AGLD) (OTCQB: AGLDF) ("Austral" or the "Company") advises that further to its announcement of July 25, 2024, its subsidiary Austral Gold Canada Limited ("AGCL") completed the sale of shares of Unico Silver Limited ("Unico"), to the Company's largest shareholder, Inversiones Financieras del Sur SA Sociedad Anonima (IFISA), pursuant to a share purchase agreement dated July 24, 2024 (the "Agreement"). The Company's directors, Eduardo Elsztain and Saul Zang, are also directors and shareholders of IFISA. Under the agreement, AGCL sold 8,139,023 previously issued common shares of Unico ("Unico Shares") to IFISA at a price of A$0.1863 per Unico Share ("Cash Consideration"), totaling A$1,516,300 (US$987,869/CDN$1,367,804). The Cash Consideration per Unico Share was equal to the greater of: (a) A$0.1863 per share, which is equal to the five-day volume weighted average price for Unico shares on the ASX for the five-trading day period ended July 24, 2024; and (b) an amount equal to the closing price on the trading day immediately prior to the closing date, which was A$0.1750 as of 2 August 2024. There were no finder's fees paid in the transaction. About Austral Gold Austral Gold is a growing gold and silver mining producer building a portfolio of quality assets in the Americas based on three strategic pillars: production, exploration and equity investments. Austral continues to lay the foundation for its growth strategy by advancing its attractive portfolio of producing and exploration assets. For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.australgold.com. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Release approved by the Company's Chief Executive Officer of Austral Gold, Stabro Kasaneva. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218997 SOURCE: Austral Gold Limited Recently commissioned PhotonAssay unit at Paragon's newly built Surrey, BC, facility Represents Paragon's second PhotonAssay unit globally, following the commissioning of its PhotonAssay unit in Hamilton, Ontario, earlier this year Paragon expects to roll out an additional 10 PhotonAssay units before the end of 2025, bringing its total number of PhotonAssay units globally to 12 Toronto, Ontario and Surrey, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - Britannia Life Sciences Inc. (CSX: BLAB) (FSE: L020) and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Britannia Mining Solutions Inc. ("BMS") and Paragon Geochemical ("Paragon"), are excited to announce the commissioning of a PhotonAssay unit at Paragon's newly built facility in Surrey, British Columbia. PhotonAssay is an innovative technology that delivers faster, safer and more accurate gold, silver and copper analysis in an environmentally friendly alternative to centuries-old fire assay. PhotonAssay has been adopted by some of the world's largest and most respected mining companies, including Barrick Gold, affirming it as the future industry benchmark for minerals analysis. Paragon's newly completed lab is strategically located along major shipping routes to the interior of British Columbia, the Northwest Territories, Yukon and Alaska, and the western United States. Images courtesy of Chrysos Corporation To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2208/218996_43aaf4eca4a3394b_002full.jpg Now open and accepting samples, Paragon is pleased to offer PhotonAssay prices comparable with fire assay and deliver industry-leading analysis turnaround times measured in days rather than weeks. This non-destructive analytical technique enables more efficient and accurate metallurgical design and process engineering by preserving samples from the beginning of exploration. This development means there is no need for extra drilling to acquire further material for testing, resulting in fewer environmental consequences, increased financial benefits, and greater speed-to-market. Finally, for organizations reporting Environment, Sustainability and Governance (ESG) metrics, using PhotonAssay in your supply chain will help you demonstrate a deepening commitment to stakeholders and rights holders by reducing hazardous waste and CO2 emissions. "We're not just analyzing samples; we're driving the future of responsible mining," says Paragon's Vice President of Operations and resident nuclear chemist, Robert Oliver. "With PhotonAssay, we're well-positioned to help clients achieve their exploration, development, or operational goals, allowing them to strike gold in more ways than one - fast results, precise data, and a smaller environmental footprint." Video courtesy of Chrysos Corporation Cannot view this video? Visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4RunTd2nG0 About Paragon Paragon Geochemical, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Britannia Mining Solutions, provides geochemical testing and analysis to the natural resources industry. Paragon's mission is to bring technology-enabled solutions to the global mining industry by setting up laboratories to address the global backlog in mineral assays. Paragon operates a geochemical laboratory in Sparks, Nevada, and has commenced a global rollout of Chrysos Corporation's PhotonAssay technology with a total of 12 PhotonAssay units being deployed worldwide. Paragon's first PhotonAssay unit in Hamilton, Ontario, has been in operation since early 2024, with its second unit being commissioned in the Greater Vancouver Area in August 2024. Paragon is a subsidiary of Britannia Life Sciences Inc. (CSX: BLAB) (FSE: L020) and is supported by a distinguished group of mining investors and advisors. For more information about Paragon, visit www.paragongeochem.com or email info@paragongeochem.com. About Chrysos Corporation Headquartered in Adelaide, with operations spanning Australia, Canada, Africa, and Europe, Chrysos Corporation combines science and software to create technology solutions for the global mining industry. The Company's flagship product PhotonAssay delivers faster, safer, more accurate and environmentally-friendly analysis of gold, silver, copper and other elements. For more information about Chrysos or its PhotonAssay technology, visit www.chrysoscorp.com or email info@chrysoscorp.com. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218996 SOURCE: Britannia Life Sciences Inc SOLJETS, a leading boutique aircraft brokerage firm, today announced the appointment of Pericles Mosca as its new Latin America Sales Director and its participation in the upcoming LABACE 2024 event. This strategic hire and event presence aim to strengthen SOLJETS' position in the growing Latin American market. PARK CITY, UT / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Pericles Mosca brings over 20 years of experience in aviation and related industries, with previous roles at General Electric, Textron Aviation, and General Motors. At Textron Aviation, he served as Regional Sales Director for South America, where he developed channel partners and drove sales of Citation and Beechcraft business aircraft. Pericles Mosca - Latin America Sales Director Headshot of Pericles Mosca Greg Oswald, acting CEO, commented on the appointment: "Pericles Mosca's extensive experience in aviation sales and his deep understanding of the Latin American market make him an excellent addition to our team. His expertise will be valuable as we continue to expand our services in the region." Mosca's role will involve leading SOLJETS' sales efforts in Latin America, leveraging the company's SOLDATA platform - a proprietary market intelligence software that provides real-time insights for aircraft transactions. A lifelong aviation enthusiast, Mosca holds a bachelor's degree in Economics from the University of Sao Paulo (USP) and a Master of Science in Management from the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Outside of his professional life, Pericles enjoys spending time with his family and friends, exploring the outdoors, and flying classic tailwheel aircraft, with a particular fondness for the Cessna 180/185. Pericles holds Brazilian and Italian citizenship and is fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, with Italian in progress. His diverse background and multilingual abilities will enhance his ability to connect with clients and partners across the region. In line with SOLJETS' commitment to the Latin American market, Pericles Mosca and Gustav Wollenzien will be attending the upcoming LABACE (Latin American Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition) in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The 19th edition of LABACE, taking place from August 6 to 8, 2024, is the foremost business aviation event in Latin America. LABACE brings together the world's leading aircraft manufacturers, key suppliers, and service providers in the aeronautical sector, as well as aircraft owners, enthusiasts, and authorities. This premier event provides an excellent opportunity for SOLJETS to showcase its expertise, connect with industry leaders, and engage with clients in the region. About SOLJETS: Founded in 2015, SOLJETS specializes in aircraft brokerage services, guiding clients through complex transactions with a focus on personalized service. The company has completed over 400 business jet transactions in more than 30 countries, offering expertise in Light to ultra-long-range aircraft. SOLJETS' proprietary SOLDATA software provides market insights to support informed decision-making in aircraft transactions. Contact Information Hannah Bowron CXO hannah@soljets.com (409) 771-9116 SOURCE: SOLJETS View the original press release on newswire.com. Retained executive search firm Caldwell (TSX:CWL)(OTCQX:CWLPF) today announced a major enhancement to its recruiting capabilities in the life science and healthcare sector with the addition of Tim DeMers as a partner in the firm's Life Sciences & Healthcare Practice, focused on recruiting executives in biotechnology, healthcare facilities, medical devices, and regenerative medicine, based in Southern California. "Tim has more than 20 years of executive search experience, working for clients ranging from private equity and healthcare medical groups to Fortune 100 life sciences firms and medical academia," said John Blank, managing partner of Caldwell's Life Sciences & Healthcare Practice. "His reputation for impeccable search work and long-standing relationships with clients and candidates alike precedes him." Mr. DeMers joins Caldwell from boutique executive search firm Frederick Andrews, where he led the healthcare team, ensuring top-tier service and results for his clients while managing the firm's overall operations across all verticals. Previously, he served as vice president of recruiting, and was responsible for client development on the West Coast for S.R. Clarke, a recruiting firm focused on the construction industry. Mr. DeMers holds a Bachelor of Science in law and society from Pennsylvania State University, which he earned while serving in the United States Air Force. "We continue to make strategic additions of high caliber, seasoned partners who have the experience and the drive to help us make our clients better, more competitive and more successful by connecting them with transformational talent," said Chris Beck, president. "Tim's deep market intelligence, client focus and disciplined approach make him a smart addition to the Caldwell team." ??About Caldwell Caldwell is a leading retained executive search firm connecting clients with transformational talent. Together with IQTalent, we are a technology-powered talent acquisition firm specializing in recruitment at all levels. Through the two distinct brands - Caldwell and IQTalent- the firm leverages the latest innovations in AI to offer an integrated spectrum of services delivered by teams with deep knowledge in their respective areas. Services include candidate research and sourcing through to full recruitment at the professional, executive and board levels, as well as a suite of talent strategy and assessment tools that can help clients hire the right people, then manage and inspire them to achieve maximum business results. Caldwell's common shares are listed on The Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX:CWL) and trade on the OTCQX Market (OTCQX:CWLPF). Please visit our website at www.caldwell.com for further information. For further information, please contact: Caroline Lomot Caldwell clomot@caldwell.com +1 516 830 3535 SOURCE: Caldwell Partners International, Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com ABP, the open-source end-to-end .NET application development platform, has enhanced the user experience by consolidating all its services under a single address, ABP.IO. This update simplifies navigation for developers by bringing all ABP subdomains into one unified platform. London, England--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - ABP, the open-source end-to-end .NET application development platform, has made the user experience easier by consolidating all its services under a single address, ABP.IO. This change, covering all subdomains of ABP, one of the most comprehensive open-source .NET development frameworks, makes it easier for developers to find what they need on ABP.IO. .NET development framework ABP offers improved user experience via refreshed ABP.IO Domain To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8552/218983_298b26815418286b_001full.jpg The .NET development framework provides infrastructure and tools for creating business solutions using modern software architectures and best practices. It is used by developers worldwide, from the USA and Canada to the UK, South Africa, Brazil, Italy, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates. ABP Co-Founder Halil Ibrahim Kalkan announced that they have reached a milestone in their development infrastructure, which has been evolving for over 11 years. To highlight this important development, Kalkan explained, "Our US developers, who make up nearly half of our users, will continue to have access to ABP's new platform across all license models as before. With our refreshed launch, we aim to attract more independent developers, startups, and corporate companies from around the world." Easier navigation, better user experience With the completed update, developers using the open-source version of ABP or customers who prefer the commercial product can now access all ABP Platform features from ABP.IO. In the statement made by ABP, three important points improved by the update were listed. As the 11-year-old ABP platform has grown, the number of subdomains has also increased, making the platform complex. The ABP.IO update, including a well-structured mega-menu, has simplified navigation of the platform and its documentation. The ABP platform has been revamped with an innovative, lean, and modern design, enhancing the platform's attractiveness while adding functionality and ease of use. Finally, the SEO aspect was strengthened. The merging of different subdomains under a single domain has also improved the search engine visibility of the platform's subpages. With the update, the documentation of open-source ABP and ABP Commercial products has also been merged. This comprehensive update ensures that both new and existing users can experience a more streamlined and efficient platform, reflecting ABP's commitment to continuous improvement and user satisfaction. "The ABP Platform is now more decisive, holistic and accessible" ABP Framework, originally developed as open-source code to accelerate the development of modern web applications using the ASP.NET Core platform, started as a social responsibility project and has evolved into a framework utilized by global giants over the past 11 years. It has gained reusable modules and a robust infrastructure, supporting corporate application requirements, modularity, multi-tenancy, and microservices. The customizable interface of this end-to-end web development platform, known for its comprehensive security capabilities and active 24/7 community, has also become more user-friendly. The continuously updated ABP platform provides an effective alternative to building custom frameworks from scratch, simplifying the creation of modern software solutions by offering a layered starting template. ABP Co-Founder Halil Ibrahim Kalkan expressed his enthusiasm for the major changes and improvements made to the ABP Platform, stating, "The aim of these changes is to make the platform stable, comprehensive, understandable, and easy to get started on." The updates reflect ABP's commitment to providing a stable and all-in-one solution that caters to the evolving needs of developers and enterprises worldwide, ensuring that the platform remains a powerful tool for developing innovative web applications. Powerful tools offered gratis under the ABP Studio Community Edition With the new update, ABP has also introduced ABP Studio Community Edition, which provides powerful tools to facilitate development processes and stands out with features such as a configuration wizard and module management. Offered completely free of charge, ABP Studio Community Edition aims to be the primary tool for ABP developers to manage their projects. This update brings all ABP features to a single platform, eliminating the distinction between open-source developers and licensed corporate customers. The .NET development framework, which offers a comprehensive set of features and tools for businesses and developers to create high-performance SaaS applications, stands out as a more effective alternative to building custom frameworks from scratch with its community-driven, well-documented, and continuously updated structure. ABP's new platform can be reviewed at ABP.IO. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218983 SOURCE: B2Press BV Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - Sonoran Desert Copper Corporation (TSXV: SDCU) ("SDCU' or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company has signed an amendment (the "Amendment") to the option to purchase a 100-per-cent interest in the Cuatro Hermanos Porphyry Copper Project (the "4H Project"), located in Sonora, Mexico, 185 kilometres southeast of Hermosillo. Under the Amendment, dated July 29th, 2024 Original terms of the Option are detailed in the News Release dated February 9, 2023 Payments reduced for years 2025 - 2027 Expenditures reduced for years 2024 - 2027 to the amount required under Mexican regulations Mine Taxes reduced through the termination of the San Lorenzo concession from the 4H Option Updated Transaction Details To exercise the Purchase Option, SDCU will now make cash payments to Minerales Y Yacimientos Mexicanos Sacramento, S.A. DE C.V. and complete work expenditures and make Mine Tax payments for a 100% ownership of the Cuatro Hermanos concessions, as per the following (all in USD): Date Old Payment New Payment Old Expenditures New Expenditures December 31 2023 $ 50,000 Paid $ 100,000 Completed December 31 2024 $ 150,000 $ 150,000 $ 250,000 $ 66,019 December 31 2025 $ 200,000 $ 150,000 $ 500,000 Minimum Required December 31 2026 $ 200,000 $ 150,000 $ 1,000,000 Minimum Required December 31 2027 $ 200,000 $ 150,000 $ 1,000,000 Minimum Required December 31 2028 $ 5,062,500 $ 5,062,500 $ - Minimum Required Totals $ 5,862,500 $ 5,662,500 $ 2,850,000 Date Mine Tax Status December 31 2023 $ 183,771 Paid December 31 2024 $ 129,186 Paid December 31 2025 $ 70,000 Estimate As a result of the Amendments, SDCU will reduce its required USD capital expenditures in 2024 and 2025 on the 4H Project, as per the following: Savings in 2024 $238,566 Savings in 2025 (projected) $603,640 4H Project Overview The 4H Project is located in Sonora, Mexico, and comprises 9 concessions and contains a large porphyry copper-molybdenum system with surface measurements of at least four kilometres east-west by two kilometres north-south. The Company released a recent NI 43-101 report on the 4H Project in October 2023 which comprised a review of historical work. Historical resources were last estimated in 2008: To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5386/219001_e999a830b449696f_001full.jpg Primary sulphide mineralisation is chalcopyrite and molybdenite with secondary oxide chalcocite. ** Under the recent sampling program, the results of which were announced in a News Release dated January 11, 2024, grab samples were collected with a focus on the areas of the 4H Project that have received minimal historical attention. The results were highlighted with assays returning up to 16.25% Copper in the South Conglomerate Zone. The twenty samples in the South Conglomerate Zone averaged Copper grades of 1.736%. * South Conglomerate Zone Results - 20 samples collected SOUTH CONGLOMERATE Cu (ppm) Mo (ppm) Ag (ppm) Min 102 1.68 0.21 Max 162,500 49.8 1.54 Average 17,363 22.1 0.9 Std Deviation 35,184 13.9 0.3 South Conglomerate Detailed Copper Assays Sample # Cu (ppm) Cu % 1843843 10,950 1.095% 1843844 12,800 1.280% 1843845 102 0.010% 1843846 3,800 0.380% 1843848 4,640 0.464% 1843849 1,940 0.194% 1843850 2,090 0.209% 1843851 2,530 0.253% 1843852 11,550 1.155% 1843853 7,960 0.796% 4H015a 15,700 1.570% 4H015b 21,700 2.170% 4H015c 10,900 1.090% 4H016 17,550 1.755% 4H017b 3,160 0.316% 4H033 10,250 1.025% 4H034 35,900 3.590% 4H036 4,730 0.473% 4H037 162,500 16.250% 4H038 6,500 0.650% Average 1.736% The South Conglomerate area is higher-grade, and the immediate development plan is to percussion drill this area to an inferred resource at minimal cost. This drilling along with permitting, metallurgy and acid-sourcing can be completed in the next 24 months. The soluble copper content in the North and South Conglomerates, in addition to the supergene zones contained in the 4H porphyry have the combined potential for a significant Heap Leach & SX-EW operation. Cautionary Note * The reader is cautioned that grab samples are selective by nature and may not represent the true grade or style of mineralization across the property. ** The resource estimate is historical in nature and has not been verified by a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 and should not be relied upon as a current mineral resource estimate. The Company is not treating these historical estimates as current mineral resources or reserves. While the historical estimates are relevant for providing context on the potential of the property, further work, including verification by a Qualified Person, will be required to upgrade or confirm this estimate. Qualified Person Statement The technical contents of this release were approved by Case Lewis, P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. References (1) 09 August 2008. Technical Report, Cuatro Hermanos Porphyry Copper-Molybdenum Project Sonora, Mexico. Prepared for Virgin Metals Inc. (by Chlumsky, Armbrust and Meyer, LLC. Richard Nielsen, PhD. & Robert Sandefur, P.E. ABOUT SONORAN DESERT COPPER CORPORATION Sonoran Desert Copper Corporation is focused on securing, developing and monetizing materials assets and technologies to build shareholder value. FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/219001 SOURCE: Sonoran Desert Copper Corporation TAMPA, FL / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Bryan Stern, a seasoned combat veteran and the former CEO of Project DYNAMO, is proud to announce the launch of Grey Bull Rescue, a new organization dedicated to providing a sustainable solution for Americans trapped in conflict zones and furthering rescue missions worldwide. Stern and his field operations team deployed last week on the organization's first mission Operation: SAFE PASSAGE to evacuate American Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents (LPRs), and Allies from Lebanon, Israel, and surrounding countries amidst rapidly escalating violence and a deteriorating security situation in the Middle East. Grey Bull Rescue is uniquely positioned where other organizations are not to rescue and evacuate Americans in crisis, having traveled to Lebanon last month to set conditions for operations in anticipation of the increased violence. Capitalizing on the experience gained from more than 600 previous rescue missions, the operations team established the necessary infrastructure for large-scale and surgical ground, sea, and air rescue missions to evacuate Americans from the pending conflict zone should war break out. The team has been boots on ground in Lebanon and Israel for the last few weeks and has staging areas in neighboring countries outside of the likely conflict zone. "We strongly urge all Americans in the region to follow the U.S. Department of State's advice to leave now by any means possible. If you are unable to leave and find yourself trapped, or if you or a loved one needs evacuation, contact us immediately through the Grey Bull Rescue website. Grey Bull Rescue is committed to not leaving anyone behind, regardless of their location or the danger of the situation. We always have and always will come to your rescue," said Bryan Stern, Chairman and Founder of Grey Bull Rescue. Stern, first embarked on his nonprofit rescue journey in August 2021 during the tumultuous U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, where he rescued countless stranded Americans and Allies after the U.S. military left. Since then, Stern and his team of seasoned U.S. Special Operations and Intelligence Community veterans have executed 616 missions, saving over 7,000 lives, from Afghanistan, Sudan, Ukraine, Russia, Israel, Gaza, Haiti, Hurricane Ian and the wildfires in Maui. He is joined at Grey Bull Rescue by 74 of the original 76 team members from Project DYNAMO, including his entire operations team, case management team, and support and administration teams. His esteemed Board of Directors and Advisors, composed of senior U.S. Special Operations Admirals, Generals, and Senior NCOs from the Navy SEALs, Army Special Forces, MARSOC and Joint SOF communities also joined him at Grey Bull Rescue. "What began as an idea in my living room and a single rescue act in 2021 with our former organization blossomed into a formidable team. As the demand for assistance continued to surge globally, it was clear that a sustainable, long-term, better organized and more professional solution was needed to reliably answer the growing demand for Americans in trouble. We are now stronger, bigger and significantly more capable of saving even more lives and fostering enduring solutions for Americans in crisis worldwide," said Stern. "Our strength is in our team, partnerships and our laser focus on our mission with uncompromising values." Grey Bull Rescue is entirely donor-funded, and every contribution directly supports life-saving missions like Operation: SAFE PASSAGE in the Middle East, ensuring that Americans trapped in the most dangerous situations receive the urgent assistance they need where the U.S. Government cannot assist. Every dollar goes directly to saving the lives of Americans and allies in need. For more information or to donate, visit www.greybullrescue.org. ### About Grey Bull Rescue: Founded and led by Bryan Stern, Grey Bull Rescue is a veteran-led, donor-supported international rescue organization and filed 501(c)(3) non-profit headquartered in Tampa, Florida, with global operations. Specializing in operations within "The Grey Space," in conflict zones where the U.S. Government does not have access or a presence, Grey Bull Rescue conducts evacuations and daring rescues of individuals impacted by conflict, war, and natural disasters worldwide. Notably, Bryan Stern, formerly of Project DYNAMO, led the first air-rescue missions from Afghanistan following the Taliban's takeover and has conducted daring rescue missions behind enemy lines, rescuing numerous Americans from captivity, torture, and unlawful detention in countries including Sudan, Russia, Ukraine, Israel, Gaza, and Haiti. These operations included the rescues of numerous American hostages including the first victim of war crimes alive since World War II. Additionally, the team executed lifesaving missions in the United States during the Maui wildfires and Hurricane Ian. To date, Stern and his team have conducted over 600 missions worldwide and saved the lives of more than 7,000 men, women, children, babies and counting. Media Contact: Ashley Pontius Tel: 813.409.4091 Email: apontius@nspublicrelations.com pr@greybullrescue.org SOURCE: Grey Bull Rescue View the original press release on accesswire.com VANCOUVER, BC and HONG KONG / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Reyna Silver Corp. (TSXV:RSLV)(OTCQX:RSNVF)(FRA:4ZC) ("Reyna Silver") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an Option Agreement (the "Agreement") with Aulode LLC. ("Aulode") on the Union Hill Project (the "Project") located in Eureka County, Nevada. Drilling commences imminently targeting the framework of this extensive system including identifying the level of oxidation, major potentially mineralized structures and critical ore-system exploration vectors. The Union patented claim group has 10 newly staked claims (81 hectares) at the Company's 70% optioned Gryphon Summit project in Eureka/Elko Co, Nevada. Adding this to the recently announced Mineral Hill claim group acquisition (See Press Release of August 1, 2024 ) completes Reyna Silver's control of the 12,058.98 hectares of Gold, Silver and Critical Metals potential identified to date at Gryphon . Union Patented Claims encompass this historical high-grade Silver,-Lead-Zinc producing district. Mineralization was mined to the base of oxidation leaving the underlying sulfides untouched. Adding 233 unpatented claims (1900 hectares) means the company now controls all of the identified gold, silver and critical metals potential at Gryphon. Drilling will commence imminently- targeting the major potentially mineralized structures that define the framework of this extensive system, identifying the depth of oxidation, and critical ore-system exploration vectors. "The Union patented claims were the last puzzle piece Reyna Silver needed to fully control Gryphon, providing the opportunity to take a serious look at Gryphon from new angles," said Jorge Ramiro Monroy, Reyna Silver President and CEO. "We can't wait to unleash our technical team's experience discovering major CRDs in a comprehensive attack on the entire district's combined Gold, Silver, plus Critical Metals endowment " CRD systems are continuous, zoned, polymetallic deposits and following known CRD mineralization back towards its interpreted porphyry source is a key exploration element. Historic production in the Gryphon region occurred prior to the advent of contemporary high-recovery selective flotation metallurgy and focused almost exclusively on oxidized mineralization. This means unoxidized sulfide mineralization beneath the historical production zones remains to be followed through the balance of the CRD-Skarn-Porphyry continuum model Reyna Silver follows. Reyna Silver plans to immediately use the geometry and geochemistry of the historic Union and Mineral Hill CRD workings to vector towards underlying sulfide Ag-Pb-Zn mineralization. Notably, CRDs in in this part of Nevada, like the Eureka district 70km South of Gryphon and the Cortez Camp 50km to the west, are also known for their significant gold credits, generally believed to stem from a later overprint of Carlin-type gold mineralization (See Press Release of August 1, 2024 ). Both mineralization types are documented at Gryphon and the two mineralizing events exploited the same structural plumbing, so understanding the controls on CRD mineralization should enhance understanding the geometry of the entire system, including where concentrated Carlin-type gold may occur. Figure 1. Updated claim map of the 12,058.98 ha project with new boundaries in bold blue and previous boundaries in narrow blue. Patented Claims are delineated in reds. Union is shown in bold red and Mineral Hill on the east side in narrow red (See Press Release of August 1, 2024 ). Selective sampling results for Silver are shown in blue with Lead in grey and Zinc in green. The Agreement: The Agreement gives Reyna Silver the right (the "FIrst Option") to earn a 100% ownership interest in the mineral rights and rights to prospect and explore the Project; and the further right (the "Second Option") to earn a 100% ownership interest in all remaining rights (including without limitation surface rights) in in the Project and to become the fee title owner of the Project. The First Option is subject to Reyna Silver making cash payments to Aulode in the aggregate amount of US$917,500 on or before August 2, 2030. The Second Option is subject to Reyna Silver making a production decision and making further cash payments to Aulode as follows: (a) US$500,000 within thirty (30) days after Reyna Silver receives all construction, environmental and other permits required in order to proceed with construction on the Project; and (b) US$2,000,000 no later than the date three months prior to the estimated date of commencement of construction on the Project. If Reyna has not made a production decision by August 2, 2030, it may extend the date for exercise of the Second Option by up to a further three years by making further cash payments of US$250,000 in respect of each such one-year.extension. On exercise of the Second Option by Reyna Silver, Reyna Silver will grant Aulode a 2.5% net smelter return ("NSR") royalty over the Project. Reyna Silver will have the option to repurchase 1.25% of the 2.5% NSR royalty at any time by paying Aulode US$2,500,000. If Reyna Silver has not made a production decision by August 2, 2033, then Reyna Silver will quitclaim and transfer its rights in the Project to Aulode and Aulode will grant Reyna Silver a 2.0% NSR royalty over the Project. Aulode will have the option at any time to repurchase 1.00% of such 2.0% NSR royalty by paying Reyna Silver US$1,000,000, and to repurchase the remaining 1.00% of the 2.0% NSR royalty by paying Reyna Silver a further US$1,000,000. For Further Information, Please Contact: Bethany Terracina, VP Investor Relations bethany@reynasilver.com www.reynasilver.com About Reyna Silver Corp. Reyna Silver is a growth-oriented junior exploration and development company. The Company focuses on exploring for high-grade, district-scale silver deposits in Mexico and the United States. In Nevada USA, the Company has recently entered into an option to acquire 70% of the 10,300-hectare "Gryphon Summit Project" in a 50/50 partnership with Reyna Gold Corp. (TSXV:REYG). The Gryphon Project shows features indicating uniquely superimposed/overprinted Silver-Lead-Zinc-Copper Carbonate Replacement (CRD), Carlin Gold and Critical Metals mineralization. Also in Nevada, the Company is advancing its option to acquire 100% of the "Medicine Springs Project" where the Company is exploring a potentially significant Silver-Lead-Zinc-Copper CRD-skarn-Porphyry system. The Company's Mexican assets are 100% owned and include the "Guigui Project" and "Batopilas Project", both located in Chihuahua State. The Guigui Project covers the interpreted source area for the Santa Eulalia Carbonate Replacement Deposit District and Batopilas covers most of Mexico's historically highest-grade silver system. Forward Looking Information This release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements relating to the Offering and the use of proceeds therefrom. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. All forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. The forward-looking statements contained herein are also subject generally to assumptions and risks and uncertainties that are described from time to time in the Company's public securities filings with the Canadian securities commissions. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. SOURCE: Reyna Silver Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com Home inspection franchisor National Property Inspections, Inc. ("NPI") proudly celebrates expansion into 15 new territories. OMAHA, NE / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / National Property Inspections, Inc. (NPI), a leader in home and commercial property inspections for over 35 years, is excited to announce a significant expansion of its franchise network. Since the start of the year, NPI has welcomed 15 new franchises, bringing their expertise and trusted inspection services to a wider range of clients across North America. NPI Inspector Performing an Inspection NPI inspector walking along the edge of a retaining wall with his tablet. "This is a tremendous period of growth for NPI," said David Stamper, President of National Property Inspections, Inc. "We're energized by the caliber of our new franchise owners and their commitment to providing exceptional inspection services in their communities." The new franchise owners come from diverse career backgrounds and share a common drive for success and dedication to client satisfaction. Brian Hedstrom (Jackson, Tennessee) 2. Kevin Gable (Airdrie, Alberta) 3. Brandon Say (Hayward, California) 4. Simon Lau (Calgary, Alberta) 5. Will Bryant (Detroit, Michigan) 6. Bruce Kashani (Mississauga, Ontario) 7. Mike Lancaster (Greenville, South Carolina) 8. Dan Salgado (El Centro, California) 9. Coy Johnson (Concord, North Carolina) 10. Dan Tittle (Whitter, California) 11. Sam Redden (Cincinnati, Ohio) 12. Eddy Bryski (Sherwood Park, Alberta) 13. Darrell Schuster (Minneapolis, Minnesota) 14. Kacy Kolb (Lafayette, Louisiana) 15. Justin Giles (Plattsmouth, Nebraska) "We're confident that these new franchise owners will uphold NPI's legacy of quality inspections and exceptional customer service," added Chris Bates, Vice President of Franchise Development. "Their entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence will be invaluable as we expand our reach and empower more homeowners to make informed decisions about their properties." NPI and Carson Dunlop offer a comprehensive suite of inspection services throughout North America, including standard home and commercial property inspections, along with specialty services like radon and mold testing, sewer scopes, and infrared imaging. We are your one-stop shop for all your inspection and home health needs, empowering you to fully understand the condition of your new home and feel at ease with your investment. For added peace of mind, NPI offers an industry-leading 6-month warranty, and you'll receive fast report turnaround so you can invest with confidence. The National Property Inspections, Inc. franchise program provides aspiring business owners with the training, resources, and support they need to thrive in the property inspection industry. Ideal franchisee candidates are community-oriented, possess a strong work ethic, and are passionate about exceeding client expectations. NPI is proud to further support these values by offering a 20% discount on the franchise fee for military veterans and first responders. To find your nearest inspector in the United States, visit www.npiweb.com/find-an-inspector. To find your nearest inspector in Canada, visit www.carsondunlop.ca. To learn more about franchising opportunities with National Property Inspections in the United States, visit npifranchise.com. To learn more about franchising opportunities in Canada, visit carsondunlopfranchise.ca. Contact Information Sydney Bailey Marketing Director sydney.bailey@npiweb.com 800-333-9807, ex. 17 SOURCE: National Property Inspections, Inc. View the original press release on newswire.com. Orlando, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - Atacama Resources International (OTC Pink: ACRL) reports that CEO Glenn Grant has relinquished his Series A Preferred Share. The Series A Preferred Share was originally granted to Mr. Grant on February 1, 2019 as an anti-takeover measure. Mr. Grant has not made use of the voting power granted by the Series A Preferred Share and relinquished the Series A share on July 25, 2024. At present, there are no Series A Preferred Shares outstanding and the Board of Directors does not intend to issue any further Series A Preferred Shares at this time. Atacama Resources International remains committed to maintaining transparency, delivering shareholder value, and advancing its position as an innovative force in mineral exploration. About Atacama Resources International ( www.acrlintl.com ) Atacama Resources International is a publicly traded OTC Pink company with significant mining claims in the greater Kirkland Lake area of Northern Ontario. Metals and minerals under potential exploration include gold, silver, lithium, graphite, cobalt, and diamonds. Please visit the company's website at www.acrlintl.com for more information. Forward-Looking Statements Certain information outlined in this news announcement may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of Atacama Resources International. Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates, and projections about the Company's industry, management beliefs, and certain assumptions made by its management. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise, and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. Information concerning factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those contained in these forward-looking statements can be found in the Company's periodic reports filed with OTC Markets. Unless required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise to reflect future events or circumstances or reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Figure 1 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6250/218834_atacama_fig1.jpg Figure 2 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6250/218834_atacama_fig2.jpg To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218834 SOURCE: Atacama Resources International Inc. The partnership's aim is to identify predictive imaging biomarkers of patient response to a specific drug-candidate, using Imaging Lab's unique AI capabilities. The company is a Top 10 global oncology pharmaceutical company. Imaging Lab is a division of iCRO, launched in 2022, that applies Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), radiomics and data mining, to extract insights from clinical trial images. Following the agreement with a Top 3 pharmaceutical company announced in May 2024, this partnership highlights Median's competitive advantage with AI-driven imaging technologies for clinical trials. Regulatory News: Median Technologies (FR0011049824, ALMDT, PEA/PME scheme eligible, "Median" or "The Company") announces today it has signed an initial agreement with a Top 10 oncology pharmaceutical company1. The agreement aims at conducting AI-based imaging biomarker2 discovery on the clinical data of a drug candidate. The agreement could lead to a broader collaboration between the pharmaceutical company and Median. The agreement involves Imaging Lab, a dedicated entity of Median's iCRO Business Unit. Imaging Lab provides biopharma companies with advanced AI-based decision-making capabilities, leveraging patients' imaging data to provide specific patient selection, prediction of response to therapy, accurate monitoring of disease progression, and early access to safety and efficacy. Median will apply its unique expertise, methods, and know-how in AI-based technologies to identify specific digital signatures (imaging biomarkers) from images, providing meaningful information on the drug responder/non-responder status of the patients. The drug-specific imaging biomarkers could ultimately be utilized as companion diagnostics3 to select patients who are most likely to benefit from the drug. Fredrik Brag, CEO and Founder of Median Technologies, highlighted: "We recently announced the selection of Median as preferred provider to a second global Top 3 pharmaceutical group. We are thrilled to announce today the launch of a collaboration with a global Top 10 pharma to support a drug development program with our AI-driven imaging technologies. Pharmaceutical companies are early adopters of AI in their drug development plans and investment in AI by large pharma is growing at a steady pace, creating very positive momentum for Median as a unique AI technology company in the imaging CRO market. AI is now everywhere in drug development and the AI in clinical trials market is expected to reach $6.55 Billion by 20304. AI-driven imaging technologies applied to clinical trials unveil new insights that could determine the success of oncology trials. Providing insights for 'Go/No-Go' decisions at an early stage, or to discover predictive imaging biomarkers of patient response to drug candidates are two of the most compelling outcomes. Imaging AI solutions will become the new generation of companion diagnostics, opening unique opportunities in the era of precision medicine." Nicolas Dano, COO CCO iCRO said: "AI-driven imaging insights are the future in oncology drug development. As a native technology company, Median is the only imaging CRO that has AI know-how and experience, giving us a unique competitive advantage to penetrate the Big Pharma market. We are eager to start the collaboration and provide valuable insights to our new partner, helping them with their drug development plans." About Median Technologies: Pioneering innovative imaging solutions and services, Median Technologies harnesses cutting-edge AI to enhance the accuracy of early cancer diagnoses and cancer treatments. Median's offerings, including iCRO for medical image analysis and management in oncology trials and eyonis, AI/ML tech-based suite of software as medical devices (SaMD), empower biopharmaceutical entities and clinicians to advance patient care and expedite novel therapies. The French-based company, with a presence in the U.S. and China, trades on the Euronext Growth market (ISIN: FR0011049824, ticker: ALMDT). Median is eligible for the French SME equity savings plan scheme (PEA-PME). For more information: www.mediantechnologies.com 1 Arjun Murthy Top 15 biopharma companies by Oncology Sales in 2023 2 An imaging biomarker is a "defined characteristic that is measured as an indicator of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes or responses to an exposure or intervention, including therapeutic interventions" https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK326791/ 3 https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/in-vitro-diagnostics/companion-diagnostics 4 Explosive Growth Forecasted: AI in Clinical Trials Market Set (openpr.com) View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806313597/en/ Contacts: Median Technologies Emmanuelle Leygues Head of Corporate Marketing Financial Communications +33 6 10 93 58 88 emmanuelle.leygues@mediantechnologies.com Press ALIZE RP Caroline Carmagnol +33 6 64 18 99 59 median@alizerp.com Investors ACTIFIN Ghislaine Gasparetto +33 6 21 10 49 24 ghislaine.gasparetto@seitosei-actifin.com Grandi Stazioni Retail is well positioned to continue its growth strategy, and benefit from further investments in rail infrastructure across Italy, contributing to the decarbonization of the Italian transport sector This marks the final exit for Antin's Fund II Regulatory News: Antin Infrastructure Partners (Paris:ANTIN), ICAMAP and Borletti Group announce today that they have signed an agreement to sell Grandi Stazioni Retail (GSR) to DWS and OMERS. Headquartered in Rome, GSR operates the long-term leasehold providing exclusive rights to the commercial leasing and advertising spaces of the 14 largest Italian railway stations. Antin, ICAMAP and Borletti Group acquired GSR from Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane and Eurostazioni in 2016. Under their ownership, GSR has been transformed to create a unique visitor experience. Substantial contributions have been made to enhance the public spaces around the historic city centres where its train stations are located. GSR has also significantly invested across the network, managed and repositioned commercial spaces, introduced innovative, high-quality brands and services. The company has delivered meaningful growth through commercial innovation and improvement of the stations' commercial areas and media advertising assets. GSR will continue to benefit from the strong tailwinds as travellers prioritise rail's sustainability benefits and given the planned investments in rail infrastructure across Italy. Alberto Baldan, GSR CEO, stated: "We thank Antin, ICAMAP and Borletti Group for their significant support over the past years, which enabled us to implement our growth strategy. We are delighted to continue our growth journey with DWS and OMERS, who recognise our potential and will continue to invest, grow and build GSR Angelika Schochlin, Antin Managing Partner, Johann Dumas, Antin Head of Luxembourg, Guillaume Poitrinal, ICAMAP Chairman and Co-Founder, Alexandre Aquien, ICAMAP Managing Director and Co-Founder, and Maurizio Borletti, Borletti Group Co-Founder commented on the transaction: "As the outgoing shareholders of GSR, we are very proud of our successful partnership which has led to the substantial strategic transformation of GSR. We are also grateful for the strong performance of GSR's experienced management team and dedicated employees and are confident they will continue to be successful under their new owners." The transaction is expected to close in Q4 2024. The terms of the transaction have not been disclosed. UBS AG, Intesa San Paolo and Cassiopea Partners acted as financial advisers and Bonelli Erede acted as legal adviser. About Antin Infrastructure Partners Antin Infrastructure Partners is a leading private equity firm focused on infrastructure. With over 31 billion in assets under management across its Flagship, Mid Cap and NextGen investment strategies, Antin targets investments in the energy and environment, digital, transport and social infrastructure sectors. With offices in Paris, London, New York, Singapore, Seoul and Luxembourg, Antin employs over 220 professionals dedicated to growing, improving and transforming infrastructure businesses while delivering long-term value to portfolio companies and investors. Majority owned by its partners, Antin is listed on Euronext Paris (Ticker: ANTIN ISIN: FR0014005AL0). About ICAMAP ICAMAP is an independent investment fund management company specializing in European real estate, founded in 2013 and led by its founding partners, Guillaume Poitrinal, Alexandre Aquien, and Harm Meijer. ICAMAP manages 1.7 billion in equity on behalf of leading international, institutional, and family office investors. ICAMAP manages real estate value-add funds across two main areas of investment expertise: private investment in real estate companies, low carbon real estate development, and listed property. The teams of ICAMAP and ICAMAP Advisory are located in Luxembourg, Paris and London. About Borletti Group Borletti Group is a private investment firm founded by Maurizio Borletti and Paolo De Spirt, with offices in London and Luxembourg. Through its Private Equity operations, Borletti Group acquires stakes in mid-sized companies within its core industry sectors: retail, luxury, and branded consumer goods. Since 2005, the Group has been involved in several successful Private Equity transactions, including Luxury Department Stores (La Rinascente, Printemps) and Fashion Brands (Moorer, Moose Knuckles, and Zimmermann). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806513846/en/ Contacts: Media Contacts Antin Infrastructure Partners Nicolle Graugnard, Communication Director Email: media@antin-ip.com Ludmilla Binet, Head of Shareholder Relations Email: shareholders@antin-ip.com ICAMAP Alexandre Aquien, Co-Founder Email: aaquien@icamap.com Borletti Group Viola Ferrario, Associate Director Email: v.ferrario@borlettigroup.com Tejuan Manners, Executive Director, ISG Strategic Transformation Operations at Lenovo NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Technology is often referred to as an "equalizer." As a leader in our field, Lenovo takes great care in acknowledging that charge by sharing a culture of diversity and inclusion throughout our products and practices. As part of that commitment, Lenovo has partnerships with all 11 of North Carolina's Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). It is Lenovo's hope that this initiative, rooted in the belief that diversity is a catalyst for Lenovo to achieve its goal of creating Smarter technology for All, will be a driving force in changing the future of technology. This commitment to reaching out and engaging partners at HBCUs within our home state is driven by leaders at Lenovo who are passionate about building and maintaining strong connections to those educational institutions. Lenovo's employee resource group (ERG) Black Leaders Achieving Success in Technology (BLAST) and other employer-sponsored groups, including Young Gifted Brothers (YGB), regularly engage with North Carolina HBCUs to ensure students are provided unique, behind-the-scenes access to understand - and in many cases spark passion for - career opportunities in technology. To foster new connections, Lenovo hosted members of the North Carolina legislature's first HBCU caucus this spring. Rep. Zack Hawkins (D-Durham) and Sen. Gladys Robinson (R-Guildford), who both serve as chair for the caucus in their respective chambers, were among those who visited the Morrisville campus to get a first-hand look at Lenovo's efforts being made to make and maintain partnerships with HBCUs. The caucus learned how Lenovo's support ay HBCUs is used to enhance career services, provide scholarships, improve technology, and support IT-related degree programs. One such standout success Hawkins and Robinson heard about was the recent HBCU Homecoming event hosted at Lenovo and led by volunteers with YGB and BLAST. In late October, students from Winston-Salem State, North Carolina A&T, Elizabeth City State, St. Augustine's, and Fayetteville State Universities gathered for a day of hands-on learning and career development with Lenovo volunteers. From a campus tour to resume and elevator pitch workshops to an early career panel about making the transition from college to corporate, students were able to engage one-on-one with representatives from Lenovo. Beyond being widely attended, the event was also covered significantly by the top media outlets in the Triangle, sharing the impact it had on future generations working in tech. But Lenovo's commitment does not stop there. Through partnerships with North Carolina's 11 HBCUs, Lenovo works alongside these colleges and universities to build unique opportunities tailored to their students' interests, including: Partnering with Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) and Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail to bring the global Work for Humankind initiative to our home state of North Carolina. Students from ECSU conducted an educational conservation project that resulted in a new website, trail feasibility study, and an app to improve the trail experience-all while completing coursework, and all done on Lenovo technology. The Data Trade Gateway program, soon entering its third year, which pairs up local minority business owners with students from HBCUs to serve as interactive data consultants for the business. Bennett College's soon-to-be completed esports facility, outfitted entirely with Lenovo's best-in-class Lenovo Legion gaming systems, peripherals, accessories, and servers. Lenovo's commitment to North Carolina's HBCUs is a transformative endeavor that goes beyond conventional corporate social responsibility. It is a strategic investment in a future where diversity and innovation are inseparable. The commitment to partnerships with all 11 HBCUs in North Carolina is not just a token gesture but a strategic imperative for the tech company. By ensuring representation at all levels, from internships to executive leadership, the company is setting a precedent for the industry. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Lenovo on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Lenovo Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/lenovo Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Lenovo View the original press release on accesswire.com American Airlines is ensuring a stable pilot workforce for the future with the evolution of its American Airlines Cadet Academy. The enhanced American Airlines Cadet Academy offers a clearer path to becoming a commercial airline pilot. By simplifying the process of transitioning from flight school to the flight deck, the program makes pilot careers at American more accessible. The Cadet Academy is also focused on attracting a diverse pool of qualified candidates through its growing network of partner flight schools and other industry alliances. A "one-stop shop" for aspiring pilots It's not uncommon for aspiring pilots to navigate a maze of flight schools, applications and interviews on their quest to earn a spot with a major carrier. The American Airlines Cadet Academy cuts through this complexity by offering: Quality flight schools: American has partnered with a network of five high-quality flight schools to provide cadets with a strong foundation for their careers. "One-and-done" interviewing: Cadet Academy participants go through a single interview process, eliminating the need to interview with multiple airlines throughout their training journey. Guaranteed placement: Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will receive a placement with one of American's wholly owned regional carriers. American recently established contractual flow-through agreements with each carrier, allowing cadets to transfer directly to the mainline operation once seniority accrues. A clear path to American: This removes the uncertainty of the traditional application process that typically follows flight school graduation, allowing aspiring pilots to focus on training and skill development. American Airlines Cadet Academy adds flight school partners Since its launch in 2018, the Cadet Academy has grown its network of partner flight schools. Today, the program offers cadets a diverse range of training options through five established institutions with locations and capacity to support the airline's mainline and wholly owned bases of operation: Infinity Flight Group: American recently welcomed Infinity Flight Group as its first East Coast partner, expanding its network and geography. As the largest flight school in the Northeast, Infinity has a strong commitment to safety, excellence and professionalism and provides comprehensive training tailored to the goals of the Cadet Academy and its cadets. Locations: Trenton, New Jersey; St. Lucie County, Florida (coming soon) CAE: CAE is a global leader in aviation training. The program's best-in-class instruction includes access to training requirements from a variety of regulatory bodies, preparing cadets for a successful global career. Location: Mesa, Arizona Coast Flight Training: A trusted partner known for its dedication to quality and excellence and operating one of the largest training fleets in the country. Locations: San Diego, California; Dallas, Texas; San Marcos, Texas. Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP) Luke Weathers Flight Academy: A one-of-a-kind training ground where students of all backgrounds, especially aspiring pilots of color, receive the training, support and mentorship pivotal to their success. Location: Olive Branch, Mississippi. Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology: Known for its innovative training methods and focus on preparing pilots for the demands of modern aviation. Location: Tulsa, Oklahoma. "We understand the challenges aspiring pilots face navigating the traditional path to the flight deck," said Heather Garboden, Senior Vice President of American Eagle and Cargo. "The enhancements we've made to the American Airlines Cadet Academy offer compelling, transparent solutions that put future pilots in the pilot's seat from day one." Opening flight deck for aspiring pilots from all backgrounds Diversity, equity and inclusion are core values at American and the Cadet Academy reflects that commitment. Approximately 800 cadets from all backgrounds and nearly every US state are currently enrolled in the program - fruits of purposeful recruiting and partnering at industry conferences and local high school and community events. American also works to attract aspiring pilots regardless of financial circumstances. Through its partnership with the American Airlines Credit Union, the Cadet Academy offers financial options for candidates accepted into the program. The benefits of the American Airlines Cadet Academy are evident in its success stories. Anneliese Pecunia exemplifies this. After completing her initial flight training with Coast Flight Training in Dallas, she is now accumulating flight hours as a paid certified flight instructor with the school. "The only way a 20-year-old girl could be working full time now as an instructor and already have nearly 700 hours logged is thanks to the incredible commitment of American Airlines and its dream-enabling Cadet Academy," she says. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from American Airlines on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: American Airlines Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/american-airlines Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: American Airlines View the original press release on accesswire.com Canyon GBS and Thesis ink a significant partnership to offer AI and CRM capabilities with Thesis's existing industry-leading SIS technology. This collaboration offers higher education institutions a unified, innovative tech ecosystem, going live in Q1 2025. SCOTTSDALE, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Canyon GBS (canyongbs.com), a pioneering tech company based in the vibrant Phoenix Metro Area, is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with Thesis Elements (thesiscloud.com), the high growth system for small to mid-size colleges and universities in the US and Canada. This collaboration aims to deliver an unparalleled ecosystem of integrated technology that will redefine the higher education landscape. Canyon GBS + Thesis Partnership This exciting partnership provides a new affordable option for unified service technology to higher education institutions in the US, Canada, and the UK. Canyon GBS is dedicated to enhancing operational efficiency across the public sector, including higher education, government agencies, and nonprofits. We equip organizations with powerful yet accessible AI-powered technology to better serve their constituents. Canyon GBS strives to be a trusted partner in navigating today's digital landscape through our relentless pursuit of innovation and our customer-centric approach. Launched in October 2023, Advising App by Canyon GBS is a comprehensive cloud-based solution designed specifically for colleges and universities. Advising App features a state-of-the-art AI personal assistant, retention CRM, and recruitment CRM, enabling institutions to operate more efficiently and manage holistic profiles to better serve both students and prospects. The product includes advanced messaging capabilities, integrated task management for staff, and a variety of add-ons to enhance institutional capabilities throughout the student lifecycle. Launched in April 2023, Thesis Elements, is a modern, cloud-based Student Information System (SIS) optimized for small to mid-sized institutions in the US and Canada. As a cloud-based SaaS offering, institutions are able to automate critical business processes and streamline user experiences, Thesis Elements increases collaboration, transparency, and data centralization, freeing faculty and staff from administrative burdens so they can focus on their core mission. The partnership between Canyon GBS and Thesis Elements will drive improved student engagement and retention support, leveraging advanced AI and CRM capabilities to Thesis' customer offerings. This integration will create a harmonious user experience, allowing seamless data synchronization and a comprehensive view of student records. Messaging from Thesis Elements will be part of the holistic student records in Advising App, enhancing transparency and collaboration across platforms. New customers for the integrated technology are expected to go live in Q1 2025. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our mission to transform higher education through innovative and accessible technology. For more information about Advising App, visit https://advising.app For more information about Thesis Elements, visit https://www.thesiscloud.com/elements Contact Information Media Team media@canyongbs.com 1-520-357-1351 SOURCE: Canyon GBS View the original press release on newswire.com. Costa Rican art offers a powerful view into the Latin American socio-political landscape and the Latin American art scene, reflecting historical struggles, environmental concerns, and cultural identity. Through vivid and provocative works, Costa Rican artists address critical issues and shape cultural narratives, with MIRAME Fine Art playing a pivotal role in amplifying these voices. SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / As the premier online gallery supporting Costa Rican artists, MIRAME Fine Art promotes the nation's rich cultural heritage to art lovers worldwide. Eliecer Rodriguez, Extemporaneo Acrylic on Canvas Socio-Political Themes in Costa Rican Art Costa Rican art is intertwined with its socio-political context. Key themes include: 1. Historical and Political Struggles: Reflecting on past conflicts and political shifts, Costa Rican artists offer insights into Costa Rica's journey towards stability and justice. Philipp Anaskin, born in Russia and raised in Costa Rica, creates figurative paintings exploring his dual identity, which echo Costa Rica's narrative of embracing diverse identities and fostering social cohesion. Luciano Goizueta examines how digital and personal memories shape our understanding of historical and political events and influence our perception of identity. 2. Environmental Advocacy: Artists highlight Costa Rica's commitment to environmental preservation by addressing climate change and biodiversity. Karla Herencia, on Guanacaste's Nicoya Peninsula, references environmental challenges using drawing, painting, video art, and performance, incorporating everyday materials to reflect her surroundings. Similarly, Eliecer Rodriguez creates hyperrealist paintings of everyday objects, like plastic bags or a plastic cup floating in the ocean alongside a shark, to provoke thought on environmental concerns. 3. Cultural Identity and Representation: Artists celebrate Costa Rica's heritage and cultural diversity. Adrian Arguedas, from Barva de Heredia - known for its masquerade culture - works in various mediums to explore archetypes and human behavior through mask imagery, reflecting cultural traditions and celebrating Costa Rica's identity. Guanacaste artist Christian Porras translates song lyrics into abstract landscape paintings, which capture the region's everyday details and the essence of Costa Rican society. 4. Social Inequality and Urbanization: As urbanization accelerates, artists highlight the growing divide between affluence and poverty, illustrating the impacts of rapid development on local communities. Leonardo Urena's "Urban" photography series focuses on the city's rooftops to highlight chaotic urban growth in San Jose. The images highlight the haphazard environment of city living, commenting on socio-economic disparities. Additionally, Carolina Guillermet's geometric abstract paintings, inspired by urban color interventions, explore space and volume, observing urban fragmentation and division. Conclusion Costa Rican art is a powerful medium for exploring and addressing socio-political issues, offering a rich perspective on Latin American culture. Through their work, Costa Rican artists challenge, advocate, and preserve, with platforms like MIRAME Fine Art helping to amplify their messages. By engaging with these artworks, audiences gain valuable insights into the socio-political fabric of Costa Rica and beyond. Contact Information Belinda Seppings Co-Founder belinda@miramefineart.com +447821591397 SOURCE: MIRAME Fine Art View the original press release on newswire.com. Regulatory News: ACTICOR BIOTECH (FR0014005OJ5 ALACT), a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company developing glenzocimab, an innovative drug for the treatment of cardiovascular emergencies, today announces that the Commercial Court of Paris has pronounced the opening of receivership proceedings ("procedure de redressement judiciaire") in favor of Acticor Biotech, thereby extending the company's cash horizon to January 2025. Following the publication of its annual financial statements on July 9, 2024, the Company announced that it would be able to finance its activities until September 2024. This is why, in order to study all possible actions to perpetuate its business, and after informing the employee representative bodies, Acticor Biotech filed a declaration of cessation of payments with the Paris Commercial Court. Following a hearing on August 6, 2024, the Paris Commercial Court issued a ruling declaring the opening of receivership proceedings for Acticor Biotech. As soon as the receivership procedure is initiated, an observation period of 6 months, renewable, is provided for. The purpose of the receivership is to enable the Company to evaluate all possible solutions to enable it to pursue its development. The implementation of this procedure will extend the Company's cash flow horizon until January 2025 and enable it to continue its active search for financing and partnerships. Acticor Biotech has asked Euronext to suspend its share price from August 7, 2024, before the opening of trading. Given the uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the receivership proceedings and the steps taken by the Company, the suspension of the listing of the shares is maintained until further notice. Press releases will be issued as the proceedings progress. The Annual General Meeting called to approve the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023, which was originally scheduled for September 13, 2024, has been postponed to a later date. About ACTICOR BIOTECH Acticor Biotech is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing glenzocimab, an innovative drug for the treatment of cardiovascular emergencies, particularly ischemic stroke. The positive results of the phase 1b/2a study, ACTIMIS, published in January 2024 in the Lancet Neurology (link to publication) confirmed the safety profile of glenzocimab and showed a reduction in mortality and intracerebral hemorrhage in the glenzocimab-treated group of stroke patients. A post-hoc analysis of brain imaging at 0 and 24 hours using artificial intelligence confirmed these results, showing a reduction in the number and volume of intracerebral lesions in patients treated with glenzocimab. On April 25, 2024, the company announced the initial results of the international phase 2/3 ACTISAVE study in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke, which showed no efficacy of glenzocimab on the primary endpoint, the proportion of patients with severe disability or death (mRS 4-6) 90 days after stroke, nor on the secondary endpoint, the proportion of patients returning to life without disability (mRS 0-2). On May 15, 2024, Prof. Martin Kohrmann (Principal Investigator of ACTISAVE) presented the main results of the study at the opening session of the European Stroke Organization Conference (ESOC), confirming the neutrality of the study on the primary and secondary endpoints, and showing trends in return to normal life (mRS 0-1), notably in sub-populations of patients with complete recanalization after mechanical thrombectomy. Glenzocimab is also being evaluated in a Phase 2b LIBERATE clinical trial initiated by academic teams in the treatment of myocardial infarction, with final results expected in Q4 2025. Acticor Biotech is supported by a panel of European and international investors (Mediolanum farmaceutici, Karista, Go Capital, Newton Biocapital, CMS Medical Venture Investment (HK) Limited, A&B (HK) Limited, Anaxago, and the Armesa Foundation) and has been listed on Euronext Growth Paris since November 2021 (ISIN: FR0014005OJ5 ALACT). Disclaimer This press release contains forward-looking statements with respect to Acticor Biotech and its business. Acticor Biotech believes that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions. However, no assurance can be given that the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements will prove to have been correct, as they are subject to risks, including those described in the Universal Registration Document as filed with the Autorite des marches financiers on July 9, 2024, and to changes in economic conditions, financial markets and the markets in which Acticor Biotech operates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to risks that are unknown to Acticor Biotech or that Acticor Biotech does not currently consider material. The occurrence of some or all of these risks could cause Acticor Biotech's actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806316272/en/ Contacts: ACTICOR BIOTECH Gilles AVENARD, MD CEO and Founder gilles.avenard@acticor-biotech.com Sophie BINAY, PhD General Manager and CSO Sophie.binay@acticor-biotech.com NewCap Mathilde BOHIN Investor Relations acticor@newcap.eu T. : +33 (0)1 44 71 94 95 NewCap Arthur ROUILLE Media Relations acticor@newcap.eu T. : +33 (0)1 44 71 00 15 Finsbury Growth & Income Trust PLC - Transaction in Own Shares PR Newswire LONDON, United Kingdom, August 06 For immediate release 6 August 2024 FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC (the "Company") MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES The Company announce that it has today purchased 186,312 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 813.13 pence per Ordinary Share. Such shares will be held in treasury by the Company. The transaction was made pursuant to the authority granted at the Annual General Meeting of the Company held on 23 January 2024. Following this transaction, the total number of Ordinary Shares held by the Company in treasury is 51,422,871; the total number of Ordinary Shares that the Company has in issue, less the total number of Ordinary Shares held by the Company in treasury following such purchase, and therefore, the total number of voting rights in the Company is 173,568,432. The figure of 173,568,432 may be used by shareholders as the denominator for calculations of interests in the Company's voting rights in accordance with the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules. For and on behalf of Frostrow Capital LLP Company Secretary For further information, please contact: Victoria Hale Frostrow Capital LLP Tel: 020 3 170 8732 7-year Facility Secured with Portfolio of Airbus and Boeing Aircraft CDB Aviation, a wholly owned Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. ("CDB Leasing"), announced today that the lessor entered into a US$700 million facility agreement secured with a portfolio of Airbus and Boeing narrowbody and widebody aircraft on lease to various of the lessor's airline customers. The facility is financed by a group of leading MLA banks, including Natixis, CACIB, BNP Paribas, the Korean Development Bank, the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, Bank of Communications Co., Ltd. Hong Kong Branch, Bank of Communications Co., Ltd. (acting through its offshore banking unit), CaixaBank, S.A., and Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited. Natixis, Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank ("CACIB"), and BNP Paribas acted as Coordinators and Sustainability Structuring Advisors. CACIB also acted as the Facility Agent, Security Trustee, and Sustainability Agent. "This facility marks a significant achievement in our platform's fundraising journey that was only possible because of the strong support from everyone involved, building on our platform's robust ability to engage global financial institutions, the strong competencies and efforts of our entire team, and the unwavering support of our shareholder," commented Jie Chen, CDB Aviation's Chief Executive Officer. Structured as a Sustainability Linked Loan ("SLL"), the seven-year facility is considered the industry's first SLL-based aircraft portfolio financing executed by an aircraft lessor globally. Moody's Investors assigned a best-in-class SQS2 rating, confirming the facility's conformity with the Sustainability Linked Loan Principles ("SLLPs"). "I would like to thank our Capital Markets team for their extraordinary efforts in raising a record volume of funds from the capital markets and involving the largest number of bank participants, making CDB Aviation a very active player in this market. I also want to acknowledge the Legal team who continue to provide their critical support in our funding activities and express our gratitude to the airline customers for their crucial engagement," concluded Chen. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, beliefs or opinions, including with respect to CDB Aviation's business, financial condition, results of operations or plans. CDB Aviation cautions readers that no forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future performance and that actual results or other financial condition or performance measures could differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate only to historical or current facts. Forward-looking statements sometimes use words such as "may," "will," "seek," "continue," "aim," "anticipate," "target," "projected," "expect," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "goal," "believe," "achieve" or other terminology or words of similar meaning. These statements are based on the current beliefs and expectations of CDB Aviation's management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results and outcomes may differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you should not rely upon forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results and we do not assume any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of any of these forward-looking statements. Except as required by applicable law, we do not undertake any obligation to, and will not, update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. About CDB Aviation CDB Aviation is a wholly owned Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. ("CDB Leasing") a 39-year-old Chinese leasing company that is backed mainly by the China Development Bank. CDB Aviation is rated Investment Grade by Moody's (A2), S&P Global (A), and Fitch (A+). China Development Bank is under the direct jurisdiction of the State Council of China and is the world's largest development finance institution. It is also the largest Chinese bank for foreign investment and financing cooperation, long-term lending and bond issuance, enjoying Chinese sovereign credit rating. CDB Leasing is the only leasing arm of the China Development Bank and a leading company in China's leasing industry that has been engaged in aircraft, infrastructure, ship, commercial vehicle and construction machinery leasing and enjoys a Chinese sovereign credit rating. It took an important step in July 2016 to globalize and marketize its business listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX STOCK CODE: 1606). www.CDBAviation.aero View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240801041005/en/ Contacts: Paul Thibeau Paul.THIBEAU@CDBAviation.aero; +1 612 594 9844 EthNano, a pioneering platform in the decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem, proudly announces the successful completion of a $5 million seed funding round. This significant investment marks a milestone in EthNano's journey to revolutionize the DeFi space with innovative solutions and a commitment to making decentralized finance accessible to all. Expanding the DeFi Ecosystem with Multi-Chain Integration EthNano's core mission is to break down barriers in the DeFi world through its advanced multi-chain platform. Supporting a wide array of blockchain protocols, including Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and Polkadot, EthNano offers unparalleled flexibility and accessibility. This multi-chain integration allows users to seamlessly interact with different networks, enhancing liquidity and providing greater opportunities for asset management. The platform's unique features include cross-chain staking, which empowers users to maximize returns by leveraging assets across various blockchains. EthNano's user-friendly interface and robust technology ensure a smooth experience for both novice and seasoned investors, making DeFi participation more inclusive. Pioneering Innovation in DeFi Solutions The success of EthNano's funding round is a testament to its innovative approach and technological prowess. With a focus on user empowerment and financial inclusion, EthNano is set to lead the DeFi revolution. The platform offers dynamic staking options, allowing users to choose between fixed-term staking for stable returns or more flexible strategies to adapt to market changes. EthNano's commitment to security and transparency is evident in its cutting-edge smart contract technology and rigorous audit processes, providing users with peace of mind while engaging in decentralized finance. Building a Community-Driven Future EthNano is not just a platform but a community. By fostering a collaborative environment, EthNano invites users to be part of its journey towards a decentralized financial future. The platform's governance model allows users to have a say in key decisions, ensuring that EthNano evolves in line with the needs and aspirations of its community. With the backing of influential investors and a clear roadmap for future developments, EthNano is poised to set new standards in the DeFi space. The funds raised will be utilized to further enhance the platform's capabilities, expand its user base, and introduce new features that cater to the evolving demands of the DeFi market. Join EthNano in Shaping the Future of Finance As EthNano charts a path forward, it extends an open invitation to users worldwide to join in this transformative journey. By leveraging the power of blockchain technology, EthNano aims to create a more inclusive, efficient, and interconnected financial ecosystem. For more information, visit EthNano. Media Contact Organization: EthNano Contact Person Name: Alex Lin Website: https://ethnano.com/ Email: support@ethnano.com City: Bangkok State: Bangkok Country: Thailand SOURCE: EthNano View the original press release on accesswire.com The Port of Hueneme, a vital gateway for international trade and a leader in environmental stewardship, is proud to announce its groundbreaking collaboration with STAX Engineering, a leader in maritime emissions capture and control. Together, they are revolutionizing emissions reduction in the maritime industry through the deployment of the cutting-edge emissions capture and control system. The system will consist of mobile floating barges that can place filters on ocean-going vessel stacks and filter out harmful emissions like particulate matter and oxides of nitrogen. This new effort is a direct response to mitigate impacts due to the damage incurred to Port's Shoreside Power system last December during the major storm that flooded Port Hueneme. STAX Capture and Control System in action with container ship. Mobile Emissions Capture and Control System: A Game-Changer for Clean Air The first-of-its-kind system developed by STAX Engineering represents a significant leap forward in tackling air pollution from ships while at berth. Here's how it works: Capturing Emissions: STAX's system is ingeniously designed to envelop a vessel's smokestack, capturing particulate matter (PM) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions directly at the source. Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness: Unlike traditional shore power solutions, the STAX system doesn't require expensive modifications to vessels. It efficiently captures pollutants without disrupting vessel operations, making it a cost-effective choice for both shipowners and port authorities. Renewable Energy: The barge is powered by renewable diesel, making it cleaner than the electric grid. Its cleaned exhaust stream meets the health-protective standards required by CARB. This aligns perfectly with the Port of Hueneme's commitment to sustainability. Building on the Port of Hueneme's Commitment to Environmental Leadership As a Green Marine-certified port, the Port of Hueneme has consistently prioritized environmental responsibility. The collaboration with STAX Engineering underscores their dedication to cleaner air, healthier communities, and a more sustainable future. Celina Zacarias, Board President for the Oxnard Harbor District, said: "We must continue to move forward towards our goal of becoming a zero emissions Port. The storm damage has created an opportunity to continue showing how resilient our Port can really be. We are putting the community first through this type of collaboration, and we will continue to pursue these types of partnerships so that our neighbors can rest assured that their Port is doing everything in its power to reduce its emissions and continue moving forward toward the goal!" "We're thrilled to partner with STAX Engineering on this transformative project. The emissions capture and control system exemplifies our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship, which is in our Port DNA, and highlights the flexibility of the Port's response to finding new solutions in the maritime industry," said Kristin Decas, CEO and Port Director, Port of Hueneme. STAX Capture and Control System in action with Ro-Ro ship. "One of the most important aspects of STAX technology is that it breaks fleet operator dependence on the local grid," says STAX Engineering CEO Mike Walker. "Shore power isn't always available due to factors like major storms, limited outlet access, and vessel incompatibility. Our solution addresses these challenges, providing an easy, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution that solves the at-berth regulation requirements for ports like the Port of Hueneme. We are grateful for their partnership and excited about the positive impact we will achieve together." About STAX Engineering STAX Engineering is a leading maritime emissions capture and control company cleaning up the air around the world's most congested ports. STAX's patented technology attaches directly to vessel exhaust outlets to remove 99% of particulate matter (PM) and 95% of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) before being released as purified gas. One of the only companies equipped to treat multiple vessel classes, STAX technology is designed to fit all ships without costly modification. To date, STAX has treated 83 at-berth vessels for 4,000 hours and controlled 31 tons of pollutants-and counting. About the Port of Hueneme The Port of Hueneme is one of the most productive and efficient commercial trade gateways for niche cargo on the West Coast. Five locally elected Port Commissioners govern the Port. The Port consistently ranks among the top ten U.S. ports for automobiles and fresh produce. Port operations support the community by bringing $2.8 billion in economic activity and creating 24,997 trade-related jobs. Trade through the Port of Hueneme generates more than $236 million in direct and related state and local taxes, which fund vital community services. In 2017, the Port of Hueneme became the first port in California to become Green Marine certified and was voted the Greenest Port in the U.S. at the Green Shipping Summit. www.portofh.org. Press Contact Letitia Austin Public & Government Relations Manager laustin@portofh.org (805) 816-8324 SOURCE: Port of Hueneme View the original press release on accesswire.com Management to Host Conference Call Today at 5 p.m. ET CHICAGO, IL / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / (NYSE:KFS) Kingsway Financial Services Inc. ("Kingsway" or the "Company") today announced its operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024. Second Quarter 2024 Consolidated Financial Highlights Consolidated revenue increased 1.0% to $26.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared to $26.2 million in the prior year period Extended Warranty revenue increased 0.4% to $17.1 million in the second quarter of 2024, compared to $17.0 million in the second quarter of 2023, which includes the impact of a quarterly deferred revenue adjustment KSX revenue increased by 2.0% to $9.3 million in the second quarter of 2024, compared to $9.2 million in the second quarter of 2023 Consolidated net loss was $2.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared to a net loss of $1.7 million in the prior year period. Twelve month run-rate adjusted EBITDA for the operating companies of $16 million to $17 million; run-rate is intended to capture the 12-month earnings of what the company currently owns or has recently acquired and is not intended to be forward-looking guidance Adjusted consolidated EBITDA was $2.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared to $1.8 million in the prior year period Combined adjusted EBITDA for the Extended Warranty segment and KSX segment was a total of $3.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024 and the year ago period. Extended Warranty adjusted EBITDA was $1.6 million in the second quarter of 2024 compared to $1.7 million in the year ago period. The decrease was due to slightly higher claims expense (2.9%) and a quarterly deferred revenue adjustment, that were partially offset by continued diligent expense management. KSX adjusted EBITDA was $1.8 million in the second quarter of 2024 compared to $1.7 million in the year ago period. The year-over-year increase was primarily related to the inclusion of DDI and SPI in the 2024 period. Recent Business Highlights John T. Fitzgerald, President and Chief Executive Officer of Kingsway, said, "Revenues increased modestly in the second quarter both year-over-year and sequentially as our KSX segment continues to perform and our Extended Warranty segment begins to level out following several quarters of challenging economic conditions. "We are managing a healthy level of activity in our acquisition pipeline and remain on track to further grow our portfolio and meet our target of two to three new acquisitions per year. With each new business we acquire, we aim to generate annualized EBITDA in the range of $1 million to $3 million each." Balance Sheet Highlights Modified the Extended Warranty loan to pay off all current Extended Warranty debt and replace it with a $1 million revolver, a term loan of $15 million, a DDTL of $6 million, and extended maturities to May 2029. Year-to-date through August 6, 2024, repurchased 141,550 shares of common stock at a cost of $1.1 million under its securities repurchase program. The Company had total net debt of $37.7 million as of June 30, 2024, compared with $35.3 million as of December 31, 2023. Conference Call and Webcast Management will host a conference call at 5 p.m. Eastern Time today to discuss the results and host a live Q&A session. Additionally, investors may also submit questions via email to: James@HaydenIR.com. Conference Call Information Date: Tuesday, August 6, 2024 Time: 5 p.m. Eastern Time Toll Free: 888-506-0062; Code: 855227 International: 973-528-0011; Code: 855227 Live Webcast Link: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2928/51015 Conference Call Replay Information Toll Free: 877-481-4010 International: 919-882-2331 Replay Passcode: 51015 Replay Webcast Link: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2928/51015 About the Company Kingsway is a holding company that owns or controls subsidiaries primarily in the extended warranty and business services industries. The common shares of Kingsway are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol "KFS." The Company serves the extended warranty industry through its operating subsidiaries IWS (iwsgroup.com), Penn Warranty (pennwarranty.com), Preferred Warranties (preferredwarranties.com) and Trinity Warranty Solutions (trinitywarranty.com). The Company serves the business services industry through its operating subsidiaries CSuite (csuitefinancialpartners.com), Ravix (ravixgroup.com), Secure Nursing Service (securenursing.com), SPI Software (spisoftware.com) and Digital Diagnostics, Inc (ddimagingusa.com). Non U.S. GAAP Financial Measure Management believes that non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA, when presented in conjunction with comparable GAAP measures, provides useful information about the Company's operating results and enhances the overall ability to assess the Company's financial performance. Management uses non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA, together with other measures of performance under GAAP, to compare the relative performance of operations in planning, budgeting and reviewing the performance of its business. Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA allows investors to make a more meaningful comparison between the Company's core business operating results over different periods of time. Management believes that non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA, when viewed with the Company's results under GAAP and the accompanying reconciliations, provides useful information about the Company's business without regard to potential distortions. By eliminating potential differences in results of operations between periods caused by the factors listed in the attached schedules, Management believes that non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA can provide useful additional basis for comparing the current performance of the underlying operations being evaluated. Investors should consider this non-GAAP measure in addition to, not as a substitute for or as superior to, financial reporting measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Investors are encouraged to review the Company's financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP to understand the Company's performance taking into account all relevant factors. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may include "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 that are not historical facts and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expected and projected. Words such as "expects," "believes," "anticipates," "intends," "estimates," "seeks" and variations and similar words and expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements; however, the absence of any such words does not mean that a statement is a not a forward-looking statement. Such forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance, but reflect Kingsway management's current beliefs, based on information currently available. A number of factors could cause actual events, performance or results to differ materially from the events, performance and results discussed in the forward-looking statements. For information identifying important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements, please refer to the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Form 10-Qs and Form 8-Ks filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as expressly required by applicable securities law, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional Information Additional information about Kingsway, including a copy of its Annual Reports can be accessed on the EDGAR section of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's website at www.sec.gov, on the Canadian Securities Administrators' website at www.sedar.com, or through the Company's website at www.kingsway-financial.com. For Media Inquiries: Hayden IR James Carbonara (646) 755-7412 james@haydenir.com For Company Inquiries: Kingsway Financial Services Inc. Kent Hansen, CFO (312) 766-2163 khansen@kingsway-financial.com Kingsway Financial Services Inc. Reconciliation of GAAP Net Income (Loss) to Non-GAAP Adjusted Consolidated EBITDA (in thousands) (UNAUDITED) Twelve Months Ended For the Three Months Ended 6/30/2024 6/30/2024 3/31/2024 12/31/2023 9/30/2023 GAAP Net Income (Loss) $ (6,674 ) $ (2,186 ) $ (2,328 ) $ (1,485 ) $ (675 ) Non-GAAP Adjustments: Discontinued operations 1,801 (167 ) 213 1,877 (122 ) Gain on sale of PWSC (1) (342 ) - - - (342 ) Changes in fair value; realized gains/losses (2) 862 60 411 217 174 Employee related expenses (3) 2,113 412 467 755 479 Other items (4) 2,066 590 61 1,081 334 Depreciation, amortization, tax and interest expense 9,566 3,659 3,280 177 2,450 Total Non-GAAP Adjustments 16,066 4,554 4,432 4,107 2,973 Non-GAAP Adjusted Consolidated EBITDA $ 9,392 $ 2,368 $ 2,104 $ 2,622 $ 2,298 Twelve Months Ended For the Three Months Ended 6/30/2023 6/30/2023 3/31/2023 12/31/2022 9/30/2022 GAAP Net Income (Loss) $ 46,106 $ (1,667 ) $ 27,839 $ (17,339 ) $ 37,273 Non-GAAP Adjustments: Discontinued operations 17,131 (110 ) (107 ) 15,678 1,670 Gain on extinguishment of debt (5) (31,616 ) - (31,616 ) - - Gain on sale of PWSC (1) (26,447 ) - - - (26,447 ) Changes in fair value; realized gains/losses (2) (15,280 ) (1,225 ) 145 (1,249 ) (12,951 ) Employee related expenses (3) 1,742 368 383 670 321 Other items (4) 3,940 1,633 591 1,532 184 Depreciation, amortization, tax and interest expense 15,570 2,780 5,164 4,053 3,573 Total Non-GAAP Adjustments (34,960 ) 3,446 (25,440 ) 20,684 (33,650 ) Non-GAAP Adjusted Consolidated EBITDA (6) $ 11,146 $ 1,779 $ 2,399 $ 3,345 $ 3,623 (1) Gain on sale of PWSC, net of transaction expenses that are included in consolidated operating expenses, as well as income taxes associated with the sale. The Company estimates that had the gain not occurred, the Company would have recorded a tax benefit; therefore taxes of $6.1 million are included in this line item for the three months ended 9/30/22. (2) Includes realized and unrealized gains and losses on non-core investments; change in the fair value of subordinated debt (net of the portion of the change attributable to instrument-specific credit risk); unrealized gain on the change in fair value of the trust preferred security options; and change in the fair value of the Ravix earn-out (changes in fair value recorded as other income or expense). (3) Employee related expenses includes charges relating to severance and consulting agreements pertaining to former key employees; non-cash expense arising from the grant and modification of stock-based awards to employees; and costs associated with employees assisting during a transition period and are not expected to be replaced once transition period has ended (approximately one year from acquisition date). (4) Other items include: legal expenses associated with the Company's defense against significant litigation matters; acquisition-related expenses; expense relating to the settlement of all remaining Amigo claims; and other non-recurring items. (5) Gain on extinguishment of debt consists of a $31.6 million gain related to the repurchase of TruPs debt having a principal amount of $75.5 million and results from removing the fair value of the debt ($56.1 million), deferred interest payable ($23.0 million) and accumulated other comprehensive income ($27.2 million) liabilities; the trust preferred debt repurchase options ($17.7 million) and accrued income receivable ($0.6 million) assets. See Note 11 "Debt," to the unaudited consolidated interim financial statements, for further discussion. (6) Includes the results of PWSC through the date of sale (end of July 2022). Kingsway Financial Services Inc. Reconciliation of Extended Warranty Segment Operating Income to Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA and Pro Forma Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA (in thousands) (UNAUDITED) Twelve Months Ended For the Three Months Ended 6/30/2024 6/30/2024 3/31/2024 12/31/2023 9/30/2023 GAAP Operating Income for Extended Warranty segment $ 6,479 $ 1,244 $ 1,076 $ 2,381 $ 1,778 Non-GAAP Adjustments: Investment income (1) 1,200 315 311 301 273 Gain (loss) on sale of investments (2) 42 6 9 13 14 Depreciation 227 56 52 62 57 Total Non-GAAP Adjustments 1,469 377 372 376 344 Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA for Extended Warranty segment $ 7,948 $ 1,621 $ 1,448 $ 2,757 $ 2,122 Twelve Months Ended For the Three Months Ended 6/30/2023 6/30/2023 3/31/2023 12/31/2022 9/30/2022 GAAP Operating Income for Extended Warranty segment $ 8,044 $ 1,392 $ 1,432 $ 2,759 $ 2,461 Non-GAAP Adjustments: Investment income (1) 825 256 231 193 145 Gain (loss) on sale of investments (2) 1,048 12 98 (23 ) 961 Depreciation 257 62 64 61 70 Total Non-GAAP Adjustments 2,130 330 393 231 1,176 Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA for Extended Warranty segment $ 10,174 $ 1,722 $ 1,825 $ 2,990 $ 3,637 PWSC operating income (3) 147 - - - 147 PWSC depreciation (3) (8 ) - - - (8 ) Pro forma Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA for Extended Warranty segment $ 10,313 $ 1,722 $ 1,825 $ 2,990 $ 3,776 (1) Investment income arising as part of Extended Warranty segment's minimum holding requirements. (2) Realized Gains (losses) resulting from investments either held in trust as part of Extended Warranty segment's minimum holding requirements or from the deployment of excess cash. (3) Amounts relating to the sale of PWSC (end of July 2022) in order to remove PWSC from all periods presented. Kingsway Financial Services Inc. Reconciliation of KSX Segment Operating Income to Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA (in thousands) (UNAUDITED) Twelve Months Ended For the Three Months Ended 6/30/2024 6/30/2024 3/31/2024 12/31/2023 9/30/2023 GAAP Operating Income for KSX segment $ 4,843 $ 1,441 $ 1,343 $ 1,056 $ 1,003 Non-GAAP Adjustments: Employee costs (1) 492 139 138 128 87 Investment income (2) 105 68 10 12 15 Depreciation (3) 268 180 64 24 - Total Non-GAAP Adjustments 865 387 212 164 102 Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA for KSX segment $ 5,708 $ 1,828 $ 1,555 $ 1,220 $ 1,105 Twelve Months Ended For the Three Months Ended 6/30/2023 6/30/2023 3/31/2023 12/31/2022 9/30/2022 GAAP Operating Income for KSX segment $ 5,042 $ 1,616 $ 1,577 $ 1,126 $ 723 Non-GAAP Adjustments: Employee costs (1) 290 78 87 70 55 Investment income 28 17 11 - - Total Non-GAAP Adjustments 318 95 98 70 55 Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA for KSX segment $ 5,360 $ 1,711 $ 1,675 $ 1,196 $ 778 Costs associated with employees assisting during a transition period and are not expected to be replaced once transition period has ended (approximately one year from acquisition date). Investment income from interest on client deposits (Ravix, CSuite), as well as imputed interest on long-term software contracts (SPI). The June 30, 2024 quarter includes a one-time catch-up for depreciation associated with the finalization of the DDI purchase accounting. SOURCE: Kingsway Financial Services Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com Dril-Quip, Inc. (NYSE:DRQ), ("Dril-Quip"), announced that its special meeting of stockholders will be held on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., Central Time for consideration and voting on the proposed merger between Innovex Downhole Solutions, Inc. ("Innovex") and Dril-Quip (the "Transaction"), as well as certain other matters relating thereto ("Dril-Quip Special Meeting"). The record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the Dril-Quip Special Meeting is the close of business on August 5, 2024. The Dril-Quip Board of Directors unanimously recommends that stockholders vote "FOR" each of the proposals to be considered at the Dril-Quip Special Meeting. The registration statement on Form S-4 (as amended, the "Registration Statement") of Dril-Quip has become effective today as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). The Registration Statement serves as both a proxy statement of Dril-Quip to solicit proxies for the meeting of Dril-Quip stockholders and as a prospectus relating to the Dril-Quip shares to be issued to certain Innovex stockholders under the Transaction (the "Proxy Statement/Prospectus"). A copy of the Registration Statement is accessible on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. Dril-Quip stockholders who need assistance in completing the proxy card, need additional copies of the proxy materials or have questions regarding the upcoming special meeting may contact Dril-Quip's proxy solicitor, Morrow Sodali, LLC, by calling toll-free at (800) 662-5200. About Dril-Quip, Inc. Dril-Quip is a leading developer, manufacturer and provider of highly engineered equipment and services for the global offshore and onshore oil and gas industry. About Innovex Downhole Solutions, Inc. Innovex designs, manufactures, and installs mission-critical drilling & deployment, well construction, completion, production, and fishing & intervention solutions to support upstream onshore and offshore activities worldwide. Innovex combines best-in-class engineering expertise with a unique blend of conventional, innovative, and proprietary technologies including WearSox deepwater centralization products, SwivelMASTER deployment technology, and dissolvable frac plugs, QCI artificial lift technologies, and a full suite of fishing tools. The company is headquartered in Houston, Texas with sales, operations and service locations throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Contact Information Investor Relations: Erin Fazio, Director of Corporate Finance erin_fazio@dril-quip.com Dril-Quip Media Relations: Sydney Isaacs / Chuck Dohrenwend Sydney.Isaacs@h-advisors.global / Chuck.Dohrenwend@h-advisors.global H/Advisors Abernathy Important Information for Stockholders In connection with the proposed merger of Dril-Quip and Innovex, Dril-Quip filed with the SEC the Registration Statement on May 1, 2024 that the Proxy Statement/Prospectus. The Registration Statement was declared effective by the SEC on August 6, 2024. Dril-Quip filed the definitive Proxy Statement/Prospectus with the SEC on August 6, 2024, and it was first mailed to Dril-Quip's stockholders on August 6, 2024. Dril-Quip has filed other relevant documents with the SEC regarding the proposed merger. This document is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement/Prospectus or Registration Statement or any other document that Dril-Quip has filed with the SEC. STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO CAREFULLY READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS (INCLUDING ALL AMENDMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT HAVE BEEN FILED BY DRIL-QUIP WITH THE SEC IN THEIR ENTIRETY BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED MERGER. Such stockholders can obtain free copies of the Registration Statement and Proxy Statement/Prospectus and other documents containing important information about Dril-Quip, Innovex and the proposed merger through the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov. Additional information is available on Dril-Quip's website, www.dril-quip.com. No Offer or Solicitation This communication is not intended to and shall not constitute an offer to buy or sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made, except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act. SOURCE: Dril-Quip, Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com Kunstliche Intelligenz hat spatestens nach dem Raketenstart von Chat GPT das Leben aller verandert. Doch der Superzyklus steht nach Meinungen von Experten erst am Anfang. Wahrend Aktien wie Nvidia von der ersten Aufwartsentwicklung stark profitieren konnten, versprechen aussichtsreiche Player aus der zweiten Reihe noch enormes Aufwartspotenzial. Im kostenlosen, exklusiven Spezialreport prasentieren wir ihnen 5 innovative KI-Unternehmen, die bahnbrechende Entwicklungen in diesem Sektor pragen konnten. Warum sollten Sie dabei sein? Trotz der jungsten Erfolge steht die Entwicklung der kunstlichen Intelligenz noch am Beginn eines neuen Superzyklus. Experten gehen davon aus, dass der Sektor bis 2032 global auf 1,3 Billionen US-Dollar explodieren wird, wobei ein groer Teil auf Hardware und Infrastruktur entfallen wird. Nutzen Sie die Chance! Fordern Sie sofort unseren brandneuen Spezialreport an und erfahren Sie, welche 5 KI-Aktien das grote Potenzial zur Vervielfachung besitzen. Dieser Report ist komplett kostenlos und zeigt Ihnen die aussichtsreichsten Investments im KI-Sektor. Handeln Sie jetzt und sichern Sie sich Ihren kostenfreien Report! Pirbright Institute and Royal Veterinary College collaborate to revolutionize cattle farming and reduce greenhouse gases WASHINGTON, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A pioneering collaboration between the Pirbright Institute and the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) aims to significantly reduce methane emissions from cattle by exploring interventions including the viability of a new vaccine. Supported by a $9.4 million grant from the Bezos Earth Fund, this ambitious project seeks to use state-of the-art biotechnology to figure out the mechanism by which a vaccine could cut livestock methane emissions by more than 30%, addressing a major contributor to climate change. Livestock are a primary source of methane, a potent greenhouse gas with a significant impact on climate change. The Bezos Earth Fund, together with the Global Methane Hub, have a portfolio of grants looking to reduce these emissions through low-methane genetics, improved feed, and better ranch management practices. All of these approaches can play a role in specific geographies and ranch-types. However, a vaccine offers a universal solution which is both scalable and cost effective, integrating seamlessly into existing farm management systems. "This groundbreaking research explores whether a moonshot to cut livestock methane emissions is achievable," says Dr. Andrew Steer, President and CEO of the Bezos Earth Fund. "Vaccines have proven to be incredibly effective in global health, and if we can apply this approach to cattle, the potential for reducing emissions is immense. The Bezos Earth Fund is committed to high-risk, high-reward projects like this, which have the power to transform our efforts against climate change." The project comprises two key components, each tackling different aspects of the challenge: 1. Early Development of Immune Response: Researchers at the Royal Veterinary College, in collaboration with Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (CSIC), will study how and when ethane-producing microbes (methanogens) colonize the digestive tract of calves and how the immune system responds. Advanced techniques such as multi-omics, histology, and immunology will be used to gain insights into these early interactions. They will also develop methanogens with fluorescent markers to track microbial interactions. 2. Antibody Response and Vaccine Development: Scientists from the Pirbright Institute and AgResearch will identify and characterize specific antibodies needed to target methanogens effectively. This involves isolating antibodies from immunized cattle and testing their effectiveness in lab conditions. By driving cross-reactive antibody responses and generating panels of antibodies, researchers aim to establish a proof of concept for a methane vaccine. The project aims to overcome significant scientific hurdles, providing a foundation for a global methane vaccine initiative. If successful, this could revolutionize the way methane emissions are managed in agriculture, offering a viable solution to one of the largest sources of greenhouse gases. "We're not developing a methane vaccine per se, but rather defining what a successful vaccine needs to achieve. By understanding the precise antibody responses required, we can provide a clear path forward for vaccine development," said Dr. John Hammond, Immunogenetics Group Leader at Pirbright Institute. "This approach reduces the trial-and-error aspect and focuses on targeted, high-resolution immunology." Current knowledge gaps include understanding how antibodies inhibit methanogen growth, identifying effective vaccine-induced antibodies, and determining specific methanogen surface antigens. By addressing these gaps, the project aims to guide the development of an effective methane vaccine. "Understanding the early colonization of methanogens and the immune response is crucial," said Dr. Dirk Werling, Professor of Molecular Immunology at RVC. "Our work aims to provide the foundational knowledge needed to develop effective interventions. By combining our efforts with Pirbright and CSIC, we're making strides toward a sustainable solution." Developed in collaboration with the Global Methane Hub's Enteric Fermentation R+D Accelerator, this project brings together international experts to accelerate the translation of research findings into practical solutions. The collaboration between Pirbright, RVC, CSIC, and AgResearch in New Zealand exemplifies a coordinated effort to tackle a major environmental challenge. By supporting this pioneering research, the Bezos Earth Fund is taking a bold step toward innovative solutions for climate change. This project, described as a "moonshot" by the researchers, represents a high-risk, high-reward venture that could lead to planetary-level impacts if successful. The potential success of this vaccine could lead to a monumental shift in emissions reduction, demonstrating the power of targeted scientific research in addressing global environmental challenges. About the Bezos Earth Fund The Bezos Earth Fund is helping transform the fight against climate change with the largest ever philanthropic commitment to climate and nature protection. Jeff Bezos has committed $10 billion in this decisive decade to protect nature and address climate change. By providing funding and expertise, we partner with organizations to accelerate innovation, break down barriers to success and create a more equitable and sustainable world. Join us in our mission to create a world where people prosper in harmony with nature. ### TaxValet, a Fractional Sales Tax Department known for eliminating the hassle, stress, and risk of sales tax, is thrilled to announce that it is now a Certified B Corporation. As a B Corp, it's part of a global community of businesses that meet high social and environmental impact standards. This significant milestone reflects TaxValet's unwavering dedication to positively impacting its employees, clients, communities, and the planet. "Becoming a B Corp aligns perfectly with our core values and mission," said Christine Pope, CEO of TaxValet. "It showcases our commitment to social and environmental responsibility, holding us to high transparency and performance standards. This certification pushes us to continuously strive for positive change, marking the beginning of an exciting journey. We are just getting started on our commitment to making a lasting, meaningful impact now and for future generations." "As a three-time cancer survivor, I founded TaxValet with a mission that transcends profit," said Alex Oxford, Founder. "Achieving B Corp certification with a score of 91 is a testament to our commitment to using business as a force for good. Our strong performance in the Workers category reflects our dedication to our team's well-being and development. This certification is not just an accolade; it's a responsibility we take seriously." The B Corp movement is about transforming the global economy to benefit everyone, everywhere, and today, the B Corp community includes thousands of companies across more than 100 countries. TaxValet scored 91 on the B Impact Assessment, surpassing the required score of 80. This score is based on five impact areas: governance, workers, environment, community, and customers. TaxValet excelled in the Workers category with a score of 36.5, demonstrating its commitment to employees' financial security, health and safety, wellness, career development, and engagement. The company's Governance score of 18.2 reflects strong ethical practices and transparency, including a 'Mission Locked' status that integrates its social and environmental commitments into the corporate structure. TaxValet donates 1% of its annual revenue to charitable causes and provides employees with three paid days of leave to volunteer in local communities. The company also offers discounted services to non-profit organizations, amplifying support for those driving change daily. In May, a company retreat was dedicated to cleaning up a local beach, emphasizing their commitment to community and environmental stewardship. In May, TaxValet organized a company retreat, dedicating a day to partnering with a local school and joining forces to clean up a nearby beach. "This experience not only strengthened our team bonds but also emphasized our commitment to giving back to the community and environment," said Alyssa Martin, VP of Client Operations. About TaxValet TaxValet is a Fractional Sales Tax Department that eliminates the hassle, stress, and risk of sales tax by doing everything for clients. Don't have the time or expertise to keep up with changing laws, deal with constant compliance headaches, and avoid costly mistakes? TaxValet does. Plus, they provide expert audit representation backed by their guarantee. Learn more at https://thetaxvalet.com/ About B Lab U.S. & Canada B Lab U.S. & Canada is a partner in the B Global Network, a unified group of global, regional, and national organizations that power a business movement as a force for good. A historic global culture shift is underway to harness the power of business to help address society's greatest challenges. Their global network creates standards, policies, tools, and programs that shift the behavior, culture, and structure of capitalism. B Lab certifies companies - known as B Corps - who are leading the way. Their vision is an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economic system for all people and the planet. Media Contact Organization: TaxValet Contact Person Name: Alex Oxford Website: https://thetaxvalet.com/ Email: alex@thetaxvalet.com Contact Number: +17204329021 City: Henderson State: Nevada Country: United States SOURCE: TaxValet View the original press release on accesswire.com Abnormal Security, a San Francisco, CA-based company which specializes in AI-native human behavior security, closed its Series D funding at $250M, at $5.1 Billion valuation. The round was led by Wellington Management, with participation from existing investors Greylock Partners, Menlo Ventures, Insight Partners and CrowdStrike Falcon Fund. The company intends to use the funds to continue to expand operations and its development efforts. Led by CEO Evan Reiser, Abnormal Security provides an AI-native human behavior security platform leveraging machine learning to stop sophisticated inbound attacks and detect compromised accounts across email and connected applications. The anomaly detection engine leverages identity and context to understand human behavior and analyze the risk of every cloud email eventdetecting and stopping sophisticated, socially-engineered attacks that target the human vulnerability. Users can deploy Abnormal with an API integration for Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace and experience the full value of the platform instantly. Additional protection is available for Slack, Workday, Salesforce, ServiceNow, Zoom, Amazon Web Services and multiple other cloud applications. The new investment follows years of growth as the company continues to see 100%+ year-over-year increases in annual recurring revenue, recently crossing $200 million in ARR. More than 2,400 organizations already use Abnormal to protect their employees, including 17% of the Fortune 500. Since last August, Abnormal has expanded further into Europe, Asia and Australia and is continuing the process of becoming FedRAMP compliant. FinSMEs 06/08/2024 Allego (NYSE: ALLG), an Arnhem, the Netherlands-based provider of a pan-European electric vehicle network, raised 20M Loan from EBRD, as part of the CROSS-E project co-funded by the European Union. The amount will support Allegos development of EV-charging infrastructure inside Poland as part of the companys ongoing Eastern European expansion project. Allego is an electric vehicle charging solutions provider dedicated to accelerating the transition to electric mobility with 100% renewable energy. Th company has developed a comprehensive portfolio of innovative charging infrastructure and proprietary software, including Allamo and EV Cloud platforms. Allego is set to deploy more than 200 light and heavy-duty vehicles (LDV /HDV) EV recharging points across over 50 strategic locations in Poland. This effort will include installing and integrating these recharging points into the existing Allego network. Additionally, it will provide comprehensive maintenance and operational support for these facilities, enhancing the user experience with smart charging and efficient billing systems. The project in Poland is co-funded by the EUs Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) program, supporting European transport infrastructure projects along the TEN-T Network and in Urban Nodes. With a network of 35,000 charging points (and counting) spanning 16 countries, Allego delivers independent, reliable, and safe charging solutions, agnostic of vehicle model or network affiliation. FinSMEs 06/08/2024 Knime, a Zurich, Switzerland-based open-source data science and AI company, raised additional $30m in funding from Invus. This brought total funding to $50M. The company intends to use the funds to double down on development of its enterprise-grade AI governance and ModelOps capabilities, while continuing to stay ahead of the rapid innovation in the field. Led by CEO Michael Berthold, Knime provides an open-source data science and AI platform that enables anyone whether they come from a business, technical or data background to intuitively work with data, every day. Its free and open-source KNIME Analytics Platform KNIME Hub is the commercial complement to KNIME Analytics Platform and enables users to automate workflows, collaborate on data science and AI projects, and share insights across the organization. Collectively, the products allow teams at all levels of analytics readiness to support the operationalization of data and to build a scalable data science and AI practice. Since 2017, Knime has grown revenue to 30M, at 30-40% per year and is now serving nearly 400 customers such as ASML, Audi, AMD, Lilly, Novartis, Bayer, Sanofi, Genentech, the FDA, P&G, Mercedes-Benz, and others, with a team of 250 employees worldwide. FinSMEs 06/08/2024 Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, August 6th, 2024, Chainwire Suis new Mysticeti protocol cuts consensus latency to 390 ms, elevating its industry-leading tech and developer stack to new highs. Sui, the pioneering Layer 1 blockchain known for industry-leading performance and infinite horizontal scaling, today announced the successful deployment of Mysticeti on Sui Mainnet after a successful run on Testnet. This innovative protocol cuts consensus latency to an astonishing 390 milliseconds, establishing Sui as the fastest consensus layer in the industry. Developed from extensive research into Byzantine fault tolerance (BFT) consensus mechanisms, Mysticeti represents a significant advancement from Narwhal-Bullshark, the consensus algorithms launched with Sui Mainnet over a year ago. Mysticeti achieves unprecedented transaction speeds, extending Suis impressive low latency performance across all transaction types on the network. Suis object-oriented architecture allows the network to process transactions differently based on the characteristics of the transaction and the objects involved. Transactions on Sui involving only owned objects, such as peer-to-peer transfers, bypass the need for consensus, following a fast-path execution that completes in a shorter time. Now, with Mysticeti, transactions involving shared objects, such as those in marketplaces or collaborative game assets, are processed using an optimized version of BFT consensus that results in lower latencies nearly akin to those of owned object transactions. Mysticeti minimizes cross-validator communication and fully utilizes network bandwidth to maintain high throughput. Live on Testnet for the past three months, Mysticetis remarkable results including an 80% reduction in latency generated significant buzz within Suis developer community and a broad desire to see the update pushed to Mainnet. With the update now live, the Sui Network can handle tens of thousands of transactions per second with end-to-end latencies well below one second. Mysticetis successful deployment is a testament to the collaboration between research and engineering, and the validator community that has integrated this new consensus mechanism, said Dmitri Perelman, Head of Engineering at Mysten Labs. Mysticeti is a next-generation consensus protocol that sets a new standard for blockchain transaction speeds and puts Sui at the forefront of our industry. Kevin Nelson, Co-Founder & CTO of Aftermath Finance, which created a leading DeFi protocol on the network said, Mysticetis shift to minimizing latency for the general caseshared object transactionsmarks a significant advancement across many sectors on Sui, particularly within the Sui DeFi ecosystem. The rollout to Mainnet has already begun to show tangible results, with noticeable latency reductions across our entire product suite. At Aftermath, we are excited to leverage Mysticetis full capabilities to deliver more efficient, lower latency products to market. Rabeel Jawaid, Co-founder of leading derivatives exchange Bluefin said, On-chain settlement latency just dropped significantly on Bluefin with the Mysticeti upgrade! P50 consensus latency currently is just under 400ms and E2E client latency when measured via a fullnode is under 1s for P50, which as far as I know is the fastest in Web3 right now especially at scale with parallelization. With this upgrade, the trading experience on Bluefin has already become more seamless for retail, and our institutional partners have started to scale their flow and liquidity on the platform. Bonkman, the pseudonymous Founder of Hop, a DEX aggregator on Sui said, Hop allows users to interface with Sui DeFi. This makes it dependent on Suis consensus mechanism and before Mysticeti swaps took roughly 2-3 seconds. Now, nearly every single swap takes less than 1 second to execute and reach finality. In all of web3, there has never been a better DeFi experience that is present today on Hop via Mysticeti. Contact Sui Foundation [email protected] The GST notices concern tax dues on services imported by Indian branches from their head offices. Airlines argue GST should apply only to services taxable in India. The issue has been referred to the GST Council read more The Directorate General of Goods and Services Tax Intelligence (DGGI) has issued show-cause notices to ten foreign airlines, including British Airways and Lufthansa, for allegedly unpaid taxes totalling Rs 10,000 crore. File photo/Reuters The Directorate General of Goods and Services Tax Intelligence (DGGI) has issued show-cause notices to ten foreign airlines operating in India. The airlines include British Airways, Lufthansa, Oman Air, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines. DGGI has alleged unpaid taxes amounting to Rs 10,000 crore, according to officials quoted by Economic Times. These notices, dispatched over the past three days, address tax dues on the import of services by the Indian branches from their respective head offices. Advertisement The June 26 circular Officials stated that airlines are not covered by the June 26 circular on the valuation of the supply of import of services by a related person, where the recipient is eligible for full input tax credit. This circular was referenced by Infosys in a recent integrated GST demand of Rs 32,000 crore. The period covered by the notices spans from July 2017, when GST was introduced, to March 2024. The airlines headquarters abroad are said to have been providing services such as aircraft maintenance, crew payments, and rentals, which the DGGI claims are liable for GST as they are services offered from one legal entity to another, Economic Times reported. Airlines deal in both exempt and non-exempt services, making them ineligible under the said circular. The DGGI had previously requested a segregated list of exempt and non-exempt services from the airlines, but only four of the ten provided the necessary information. The question of location of service Foreign airlines have argued that GST should only be paid on services taxable in India, given the place of service was both head office and branch office. They also raised their concerns through their respective embassies to the finance ministry. The issue was subsequently referred to the fitment committee under the GST Council, which approved the June 26 circular clarifying the valuation of the supply of import of services by a related person. However, tax experts have noted that this circular does not adequately address the concerns of foreign shipping lines and airlines due to their unique business models involving a mix of taxable and exempt supplies. The stock market in India is likely to open in the green on Tuesday (August 6). Ahead of the opening bell in India, heres a look at stocks to watch read more A man looks at a screen displaying news of markets update inside the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) building in Mumbai. File image/Reuters The GIFT Nifty index was up 158 points or 0.65 per cent at 24,301 around 8:45 am on Tuesday (August 6). It hinted at a positive start for Dalal Street after the bloodbath on Monday (August 5). Global cues remained mixed. All three major Wall Street indices ended in red on Monday in the US. The Asian markets, however, traded in the green, with Japans Nikkei up 9.4 per cent on Tuesday. Advertisement Ahead of the opening bell in India, heres a look at stocks to watch: Tata Chemicals: The company has reported a significant 67.6 per cent decline in net profit year-on-year, standing at Rs 190 crore for the first quarter ending June 30, 2024. In the same quarter last year, the company had posted a net profit of Rs 587 crore. Additionally, the revenue saw a dip of 10.2 per cent, falling to Rs 3,789 crore from Rs 4,218 crore in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. ONGC: The state-owned enterprise disclosed a 15 per cent year-on-year reduction in net profit, amounting to Rs 8,938.10 crore for the first quarter ending June 30, 2024. This is a drop from the Rs 10,526.78 crore profit reported in the same quarter last year. The CNBC-TV18 poll had forecasted a profit of Rs 8,373 crore for the reviewed quarter. Adani Energy Solutions: The company announced that it has successfully raised Rs 8,373.10 crore through a qualified institutions placement route. This fund is intended to enhance capacity for evacuating electricity generated from renewable sources. Power Mech: The company has secured an order valued at Rs 110.57 crore for the operation and maintenance of a 400 MW captive power plant and utilities at the Petroleum Oil Refinery in Dangote, Nigeria. The project is slated for completion within 24 months. Bharti Airtel: The telecom operator reported a substantial increase in profit, more than doubling to Rs 4,160 crore in the first quarter ending June 30, 2024, from Rs 1,612.5 crore in the same period last year. Revenue also saw a rise of 2.8 per cent, reaching Rs 38,506.4 crore during the reported quarter, compared to Rs 37,440 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. Advertisement Patel Engineering: The Office of the Executive Engineer, Government of Maharashtra, has awarded Patel Engineering Limited (PEL) and its JV Partner a contract worth Rs 317.60 crore. This contract involves the construction of a water lifting arrangement for the first stage from the submergence of the Jigaon project, including civil, mechanical, electrical components, and allied works. The project is expected to be completed within 24 months. Upcoming Results: Tata Power Company Ltd., TVS Motor Company Ltd., Vedanta Ltd., and Lupin Ltd. are among the companies scheduled to release their first-quarter results today. The documentary is directed by Raghav Khanna and in an exclusive interview with Firstpost, he spoke about its idea, working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali on Padmaavat, and lots more read more A documentary on filmmaker SS Rajamouli called Modern Masters: SS Rajamouli is streaming on Netflix that gives us an insight on the mans craft and tenacity, and what goes behind creating a piece that lives for ages and not just weekends. The documentary is directed by Raghav Khanna and in an exclusive interview with Firstpost, he spoke about its idea, working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali on Padmaavat, and lots more. Edited excerpts from the interview Advertisement How did the idea about making a documentary on SS Rajamouli come about? Well, this idea originated with Film Companion and Anupama Chopra. And they partnered with Applause, and then they got me on board as the director. I would also like to add that ex-Film Companion journalists, Baradwaj Rangan and Avinash Prakash have been credited with the Initial Concept and Anupama Chopra and Tanvi Ajinkya have been credited with Creative Development." It was just a one liner when I came on board, and then we co-developed the entire structure and script of the documentary, and it went into shoot. Do you feel documentaries can ever have theatrical releases? And if yes, how do you feel people would react? Its a great question. Something that is definitely a goal of mine that within India, documentaries achieve theatrical release. There are some things that need to align for that to happen. If you look at the west, documentaries do enjoy limited theatrical run. Documentaries do enjoy theater as a sizable slice of their pie financially as well. For it to happen in India, we have to look back on how documentaries have been made so far in the sense that not long back, documentary was considered to be, in an unsaid way, a struggling filmmakers endeavor. Thankfully, with streaming coming into India with the advent of streaming, that has been removed. That stigma has been removed because documentary filmmaking has been elevated within India. Our audience got used to watching international documentaries, and a whole range of Indian filmmakers then started making documentaries which have the same narrative finesse, which have the same cinematic finesse as our western counterparts do. So Id say that about 10 years ago, it was unthinkable to say that documentaries would fetch the kind of budgeting and pricing that they are getting today or were getting at least 2 years back. Advertisement What fascinated you the most about Rajamouli and his brand of cinema? I think his impact and contribution to Indian cinema in the recent past has been enormous. There has been a Mani Ratnam sir who did a crossover. There have been other stars like Rajinikanth sir and Kamal Haasan sir whove worked in Hindi cinema as well. But Hindi cinema can clearly be divided, at least modern Hindi cinema can clearly be divided into pre and post-Baahubali phase where this entire term was coined of pan India release. So in a country as diverse and as rich as ours, it is only great that we enjoy cinema from all parts of the country. Advertisement Rajamouli sir is the pioneering force behind it with Baahubali and then he went on to make Indian cinema slightly more global with RRR. Like, Indian cinema is recognized world over, but the impact RRR had both theatrically and in the festival circuit and on streaming, I doubt there are many films in the recent past which have had that kind of impact. So that is something that excited me about his contribution to Indian cinema. Then on the other side, the other part of his artistry is the world-building he does. Not many people can build a world like that and create that make belief environment where a man is jumping out with beasts and youre rooting for that man where you have the question pressing the nation was Kattapa ne Baahubali ko Kyun Mara. That world-building, that immersive cinema, I feel very few people in this country have a command over the way Rajamouli sir has. Advertisement What more would you like to tell us about the man behind the filmmaker? So I had the good fortune to follow him closely for a good number of days and across the world. We filmed with him in Japan, we filmed with him in LA, we filmed with him in Hyderabad on multiple occasions. Documentary filmmaking especially follow documentary by its nature is access-driven. So youre having a cup of coffee together, youre taking a car ride together, youre in his office doing an interview and obviously, Anupama Chopraji was interviewing him throughout in this process. But while we were shooting with him, it was just a lot of time him and I were spending together. What I realized is that, one, it is almost unbelievable how humble and down-to-earth SS Rajamouli sir is. The way he has taken his success is so inspirational. And the filmmaker part of him. What he said in the documentary, the only thing hes a slave to his story. He will go to any extent that he humanly can. He will reach in the best possible manner a creative break point to realise his vision. And that kind of passion can only be sustained over the years if you truly and immersively are one with your art form. Like, he is extremely passionate, extremely hardworking, almost obsessive as a filmmaker, and a lot of his peers and colleagues have said that, the actors hes worked with. But in his private life, hes able to create that demarcation and live with a sense of humility and normalcy, which is fairly commendable. Advertisement You also worked as the executive producer on Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Padmaavat; how was that collaboration like? The way an executive producer term is used in India versus how it is used internationally is drastically different. Here, a senior line producer is often referred to as the executive producer, especially in films. But internationally, an executive producer has creative stakeholding or brings on board a certain amount of distribution weightage through their name and influence. On Padmaavat, my role was concentrated around largely production-related responsibilities, but somewhat creative in nature because SLB sir, again, is a maestro. He what he does, nobody else does in Indian cinema. And I got that opportunity fairly early in my career and I was young and working with him was even so if it was for a brief period was almost like going to a film school because when you see somebody who is at the pinnacle of their craft, who is repeatedly over decades, film after film creating these cinematic wonders to get the ability to absorb and learn how it is done, break it down was, I think, priceless, immeasurable in certain ways. Ive been fortunate to observe, albeit briefly, both these maestros, Sanjay Leela Bhansali sir and S.S. Rajamouli sir at work. The command they have over their craft, their innate curiosity, and relentless pursuit of excellence, its inspiring and infectious. On his another creation called Tiffin Stories Tiffin Stories emerged from the understanding that food, much like a photograph, evokes a deep sense of nostalgia. Beyond its role in satisfying hunger and taste, food serves as a cultural ambassador and a personal memoir, connecting people and experiences as intimately as cherished childhood tales. In this series, we delve into the emotional and transformative power of food through the eyes of influential Indians. Each episode unfolds a unique narrative designed around the guests personal journey, showcasing how food has profoundly shaped their life. Tiffin Stories offers a captivating exploration of heritage, identity, and the unspoken bonds forged over shared meals. Actor Ashwath Bhatt, who is known for his supporting portrayals in films like IB71, Mission Majnu, Sita Ramam, Raaz Reboot, Rakkhosh, Raazi, Phantom, Kesari, Haider & others, recently faced assault in Istanbul, Turkey during his vacation. He was attacked by a robber on Sunday evening, while walking towards the popular tourist location, Galata Tower in the Beyoglu district. I was walking towards Galata Tower when a man approached me. He had a chain in his hand, and before I could fully comprehend what was happening, he hit me on the back with it. In retrospect, it was likely a gang working in tandem, trying to snatch my bag for a second, I was so shocked - whats happening? But I think they werent expecting me to resist and put up a fight. While he was trying to snatch my bag, a cab driver stopped and intervened. The robber said something in Turkish and then fled. The cab driver saw my wound and immediately told me to go to the police, the actor told ETimes. Advertisement He added, Its unfortunate that such a thing happened, especially in such a touristy area. People often advise not to get involved and not to report to the police. That word unnecessary troubles me. People watch films and think Turkey is all romantic, but if we dont report crime, these incidents will only increase. Everybody warned me about pickpockets, but this was beyond anything I had imagined. Ive been to the Middle East, Egypt, and so many parts of Europe, and nothing like this has ever happened to me. The announcement marks a significant moment for the ambitious project, as it opens the floor for a casting call for the main lead actress read more Earlier today, Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri made an exciting announcement on his official social media handles regarding his upcoming film The Delhi Files, which will be the final entry in his acclaimed trilogy following of Iambuddha and Abhishek Agarwal Arts The Tashkent Files and The Kashmir Files. The announcement marks a significant moment for the ambitious project, as it opens the floor for a casting call for the main lead actress. Heres a look at the video he posted for the role: Advertisement In the video, the acclaimed director shared that he is looking for an Indian actress who has a strong grasp of Hindi and can pronounce it accurately. The preferred age range is between 18-25, along with an innocent-looking persona. While there is also a slight preference for Bengali candidates, he clarified that these criterias are flexible as long as the person appears to be fit for the role and is immensely talented. The primary focus is on finding someone with exceptional acting skills who can bring depth and authenticity to the role. Known for his impactful storytelling and thought-provoking themes, Vivek also expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming success of his previous films. He thanked audiences for their support and for making these films significant hits, acknowledging the role of the talented cast in bringing these stories to life. Vivek Agnihotris films have consistently sparked important conversations and highlighted historical narratives. The Delhi Files is expected to continue this tradition, promising to be an impactful experience. Aspiring actresses who meet the criteria are encouraged to showcase their skills and seize this chance to be part of a significant film. Talking about Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri, after receiving nationwide acclaim and love, Vivek is set to take the audiences on the journey of another hard-hitting film with his forthcoming The Delhi Files. After The Kashmir Files, prolific producer Abhishek Agarwal has yet again joined hands with Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri with his production banner Abhishek Agarwal Arts on The Delhi Files. On Monday, Sheikh Hasina, the long-time prime minister of Bangladesh, resigned and fled the nation. Now, intelligence agencies say inputs are indicating a foreign hand specifically Pakistan and China are behind the dramatic turn of events read more People waves Bangladeshi flags on top of the Ganabhaban, the Prime Minister's residence, as they celebrate the resignation of PM Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka, Bangladesh, August 5, 2024. Reuters Is a foreign hand behind Sheikh Hasinas fall in Bangladesh? According to some media reports, Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and China are behind Hasinas ouster. Hasina, the long-time prime minister of Bangladesh, resigned and fled the country on Monday. The development came after over 100 people were killed in anti-government protests regarding the controversial quota system over the weekend. The Bangladesh Army has taken over with General Waqar-uz-Zaman calling for peace and saying an interim government is being formed. Advertisement But did China and Pakistan conspire to get rid of Hasina? Lets take a closer look: ISI used students? News18 quoted top intel sources on Monday as saying that that Pakistans ISI was using students to pressure Hasina into quitting. The aim was to establish an anti-India government, sources said. ISI sleeper cells were also being activated against Hasina, they added. ISI is using Jamat and their student unit Chhatra Shivir to aggravate the crisis in Dhaka. Jamat is considered to be very close to Pakistan and secret funding was given to them from time to time. They regular get briefings and instructions from the Pakistan mission in Dhaka, they said. ISI is using Jamat and their student unit Chhatra Shivir to aggravate the crisis in Dhaka. Jamat is considered to be very close to Pakistan and secret funding was given to them from time to time. They regular get briefings and instructions from the Pakistan mission in Dhaka, they said. The Times of India reported that the Islami Chhatra Shibir, the student arm of the Jaamati-e-Islami Bangladesh, was adding fuel to the fire of the protests against Hasina. All this with the aim of toppling the Hasina regime for a government far friendlier to Islamabad and Beijing and which would turn a blind eye to the Islamist terror groups operating out of Bangladesh. Advertisement The newspaper said intelligence inputs indicated that members of the ICS had meticulously planned to provoke widespread violence across Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina has fled Bangladesh after resigning as the Prime Minister amid a nationwide movement against her rule (Photo: CNN-News 18) The ISI-backed Jamaat-e-Islami had received substantial financial backing earlier this year to destabilise the Sheikh Hasina govt. A significant portion of this funding is believed to have originated from Chinese entities operating in Pakistan, an official told the newspaper. Intelligence agencies have been monitoring the ICS for a while now. Advertisement As per the newspaper, the student arm reportedly operates with in sync with the Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami (HuJI) a Pakistan-based Deobandi terrorist group backed by the ISI. The ultimate objective of Jamaat or ICS is to establish a Taliban-type govt in Bangladesh, and the ISI has been assuring them of their support in achieving this goal. Their proximity became flagrant in the wake of the strengthening ties between the Indian and Bangladeshi governments, an intelligence officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, told the newspaper. Sources also pointed News18 to an unusual development. Recently, an unusual move was seen which is normally not done by Foreign Missions. The Pakistan embassy asked students to take shelter, if needed, in the mission. Diplomatic missions are never seen doing this. Sources said the ISI thought the Awami League government had New Delhis backing and ought to be removed to create ripples in this part of the neighbourhood. Advertisement Through this, they get multiple border entry points into India for all kinds of activities. They want the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to come to power and support Pakistan, sources added. What about China? According to The Times of India, Chinas ministry of State and Security (MSS) is also suspected to have lent a helping hand. This, as Beijing had tired of Hasina trying to balance her handling of India and China. Advertisement An intelligence source told the newspaper a new government in Dhaka with pro-Pakistan leanings will only play to Chinas benefit. In any case, MSS has lately been more proactive. An example of this is a propaganda video recently circulated by the MSS in China, warning of foreign spies being everywhere. This was highly uncharacteristic of MSS, the officer added. Meanwhile, ex-Bangladesh High Commissioner Veena Sikri on Monday, speaking to The Tribune, called the developments in Bangladesh worrisome for India. Sikri said she did not rule out a foreign hand in the matters, adding that a students movement for abolition of quotas in the neighbouring nation somehow transformed into a political protest. She noted the presence of members of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami during protests. (File) Chinese President Xi Jinping. Reuters Sikri pointed to Chinas treatment of Hasina during her recent visit as evidence of a possible foreign hand guiding events. I have always been worried about a foreign hand (in the Bangladesh situation). The most recent indicator of this was when Sheikh Hasinas visit to China went very badly. It shocked me. China did not accord her a proper protocol welcome. Xi Jinping did not give her a separate meeting. This was uncharacteristic of China. One could not fathom why China did this. But now one can see. The Pakistan-China nexus is very strong, Sikri said. She said the role played by the Jamaat-e-Islami will trouble New Delhi. India is very worried about this instability. We want the situation to calm down. The Bangladesh Army Chief has said an interim government will take charge, but we do not know what shape this interim government will take. Many lists are circulating as of now. We will have to wait and see, she said. Jamaat-e-Islamis role seems to be a very large one. It forces us to think whether there is a Pakistan-China hand behind development in Bangladesh, she added. Conspiracy to take out Hasina? The Centre at todays all-party meet to discuss the scenario in Bangladesh said that it is possible that there was a conspiracy to oust Hasina, NDTV quoted sources as saying. The all-party meet was chaired by Foreign Minister S Jaishankar. The Centre said numerous political players could be involved in the conspiracy to topple the regime. Jaishankar also informed leaders about what the Centre was doing to deal with the fallout of Hasina fleeing. He said the government is keeping an eye on things and is in constant contact with the Bangladeshi Army to ensure the safety of Indian citizens and minorities. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at the meet posed three questions to Jaishankar what is the Centres short-term and long-term plan to deal with the situation, is Pakistan involved and if the government has foreseen this developments. Jaishankar replied that the Centre is keeping a close eye on things so it can formulate its response and that the government is looking into whether Islamabad is involved. It is too early to rule in or rule out anything, but a Pakistani diplomat did change his social media profile picture to support the agitation in Bangladesh, Jaishankar was quoted as saying by News18. Meanwhile, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has voices his concern over the situation. We still dont know who is going to be in the interim government. There are some understandable concerns in India about the increasing influence of the Jamaat-e-Islami, which has taken a very hostile attitude to India in the past, and possible meddling by China and PakistanWe dont want an unstable or an unfriendly neighbour, Tharoor told ANI. Tharoor also voiced concern over the recent attacks on Hindu homes, temples, and individuals in Bangladesh, warning of a potential refugee crisis if the situation doesnt stabilise soon. There are some disturbing reports coming, of attacks on Hindu homes, temples and individuals. We all saw the pictures of looting yesterday. It may calm down and stabilize in a couple of days, if it doesnt, then there is a risk even of refugees fleeing to our country and that would be a matter of grave concern. I hope that our High Commissioner and our staff there are safe and monitoring the situation closely, he told ANI. With inputs from agencies The political turmoil in Bangladesh is affecting neighbouring India. Flights are cancelled, train services are suspended, a night curfew has been imposed in Meghalaya, and the Border Security Force (BSF) is on high alert in West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura, which share a 4,096-kilometre border with Dhaka read more The Iron Lady of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, has been ousted. As she fled her own country on Monday, her presidential residence was stormed and looted, her father and state founder Sheikh Mujibur Rahmans statue was vandalised, and an interim government is about to be formed. The flight into exile ended a 15-year second stint in power for Hasina, who has ruled for 20 of the last 30 years as leader of the political movement inherited from her father, assassinated with most of his family in a 1975 coup. Advertisement However, this political turmoil is not just affecting the country, but also its neighbour India. From travel to border security, heres how Hasinas resignation is affecting New Delhi. Cancelled flights Air India and IndiGo cancelled their flights to Bangladesh after its embattled PM Hasina tendered her resignation and fled the country amid weeks of massive protests. Air India said in a post on X, In view of the emerging situation in Bangladesh, we have cancelled the scheduled operation of our flights to and from Dhaka with immediate effect. We are continuously monitoring the situation and are extending support to our passengers with confirmed bookings for travel to and from Dhaka with a one-time waiver on rescheduling and cancellation charges. Safety of our guests and crew remains our foremost priority. The airline currently operates 14 weekly flights between India and Dhaka. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been given the green light by the Indian government for entry into India, according to sources. File Image/AFP Indias largest carrier, IndiGo, which operates 35 weekly flights between the two countries, also issued a statement on X. In view of the ongoing situation in Dhaka, all fights scheduled for tomorrow have unfortunately been cancelled. We understand that this may cause significant inconvenience and disruption of your travel plans and we sincerely regret this development. Our customer experience team is available round the clock to assist all affected customers. Alternatively, rebook and full refund options are available on our website. We appreciate your continued trust and patience, and will keep you updated on further developments, it added. Advertisement Vistara, which operates 10 weekly flights between India and Dhaka, did not issue any statement about flight cancellations till Monday evening. Notably, India on Sunday night strongly advised all its nationals presently residing in Bangladesh to exercise extreme caution. It also asked them to restrict their movements in the wake of fresh violence in the neighbouring country. Also read: How political instability in neighbourhood affects India Train operations The Indian Railways on Monday suspended all train operations to Bangladesh amid the unrest in the neighbouring country. The affected trains include the Kolkata-Dhaka-Kolkata Maitree Express (13109/13110), Dhaka-Kolkata-Dhaka Maitree Express (13107/13108), Kolkata-Khulna-Kolkata Bandhan Express, and the Dhaka-New Jalpaiguri-Dhaka Mitali Express (13131/13132) that has been suspended since July 21. Advertisement Indian railway officials said they have been in touch with counterparts since July 18 and trains between the two countries were being cancelled on a daily basis. Protesters climb a public monument as they celebrate the news of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas resignation, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. AP The officials, according to The Hindu, said train services will not resume unless there is a favourable response from Bangladesh officials that trains can operate across the border. The officials say Mitali Expresss rake is in Bangladesh and hasnt been back since July 21. Bandhan Expresss last run ended on July 18, and Maitree Expresss last run ended on July 19. As per the report, India and Bangladeshs goods trade has also suffered. The newspaper quoted officials as saying that there are currently 168 loaded and 187 empty waggons in Bangladesh. Advertisement The neighbour receives food grains from India, particularly maize. The majority of waggons are currently stranded in Bangladesh and return empty to India. Eight rakes for Bangladesh that are loaded are parked in India, according to officials. Border security As the situation escalated, the Border Security Force (BSF) said it has received strict instruction from the government to not allow anyone into the country without valid documents. According to a senior BSF official, they were in communication with their counterparts, Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB), and the situation along the Bangladeshi border was normal at the moment. A Border Security Force (BSF) personnel stands guard at the India-Bangladesh border checkpost, at Hili in Dakshin Dinajpur district, on August 5. PTI In view of the changed situation in Bangladesh, the BSF has issued alert along the Indo-Bangladesh border and the number of troops deployed along the border has been increased, the border-guarding force said in a statement on August 5. Advertisement A 4,096-kilometre border separating Bangladesh and India runs through the states of West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura. According to a BSF official, there was no movement of vehicles or goods to or from the Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) after the curfew that was enforced by the authorities in Bangladesh on August 4. Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, the founder of the Tipraha Indigenous Progressive Regional Alliance (TIPRA), said on X that he has assured Union Home Minister Amit Shah that Tripuras Indian borders are effectively guarded and that no unauthorised immigration will be permitted. As per another report by The Hindu, to assess the operational preparedness, BSF Director-General Daljit Singh Chawdhary and Additional D-G Ravi Gandhi travelled to the Sunderbans in the North 24 Parganas region of West Bengal. Along with the particular challenges of the rainforest and water-rich terrain, the BSF D-G was also told about the floating border outposts along the Indo-Bangladesh water-border. The briefing covered the effective methods put in place to combat border crimes, such as smuggling and illegal crossings. Tripura has already tightened security since the turmoil in Bangladesh. Today, patrolling and security in the bordering areas have been tightened, a senior state police official said, according to Hindustan Times. On August 2, SK Misra, the Inspector General of the BSFs Mizoram and Cachar Frontier, inspected the state of the unfenced gaps along the Kushiyara River and other areas of Assam. We keep a 24/7 vigil on the border areas, but it has been strengthened multiple times now. We wont allow a spillover of violence from Bangladesh to India through this border, an official said. Kangkanjyoti Saikia, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Assam Polices southern area, told Hindustan Times on Monday that the security troops stationed on the borders are receiving sufficient support. Catch all the live updates on the Bangladesh crisis HERE. Night curfew in Meghalaya In light of the recent instability in the neighbourhood, Meghalaya has enforced a night curfew along its international border with that country, according to state Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong. In view of the volatile situation, the state government has decided to impose a night curfew along the international border with Bangladesh, Tynsong said, as per NDTV. The curfew is imposed from 6 pm to 6 am every day till further notice. The curfew has been enforced within 200 metres of the international border and the Indian territory. Protesters shout slogans as they celebrate after getting the news of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas resignation, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. AP According to Tynsong, the border between Bangladesh and India is patrolled by nine battalions of the BSF in Meghalaya. He said that BSFs Deputy Inspector General has been instructed to inform the authorities and that the government will send additional security personnel at the border if necessary. Moreover, the Meghalaya Police have been instructed to support the BSF in times of necessity. A opportunity for Indias textile biz The textile industry, which accounts for the majority of Bangladeshs exports, is expected to suffer as a result of the worsening crisis. This is because foreign buyers might turn their attention to other markets like India. According to Business Standard, industry experts estimate that if 1011 per cent of the bordering countrys exports are redirected to Indian centres like Tiruppur, India will benefit from an additional $300400 million in monthly trade. People step on an image as they react to the resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in East London, Britain. An interim government will now take over the administration of the country. Reuters We expect orders may start coming to Tiruppur, and this financial year, they are expected to be at least 10 per cent more than last years, said KM Subramanian, president of the Tiruppur Exporters Association, was quoted as saying by the outlet. With a high double-digit share in the European Union and the United Kingdom and a 10 per cent market share in the US, Bangladesh exports $3.53.8 billion worth of clothing per month. India exports goods worth between $1.3 and $1.5 billion every month. This is unfortunate and if the current disruption lasts long, it will affect buyer sentiment. Initially, buyers will likely shift some orders to India and other countries. We have the capacity to handle an additional $300-400 million in orders immediately, said Business Standard quoted Prabhu Damodaran, secretary to the Indian Texpreneurs Federation, an industry body. The crisis has come at a time when Bangladesh was expected to cross $50 billion in annual export in 2024, compared to around $47 billion in 2023. In addition to this, manufacturing units owned by Indians in Bangladesh are also likely to shift their base to India. According to trade-policy analyst S Chandrasekaran, around 25 per cent of the units in Bangladesh are owned by Indians. They include companies like Shahi Exports, House of Pearl Fashions, Jay Jay Mills, TCNS, Gokaldas Images, and Ambattur Clothing. The movement of consignments is stuck, and there is a breakdown in the supply chain for the upcoming Christmas season. India has an advantage here because orders will be diverted, Chandrasekaran added. The sudden drop in global volumes may be compensated by a rise in Indian exports. With inputs from agencies After fleeing Dhaka, Sheikh Hasina is seeking temporary refuge in India. Its not the first time. In 1975, after her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was assassinated along with her family members, she turned to Delhi for help. She came to the country with her husband, toddlers, and sister and stayed in exile for six years read more Bangladesh's Sheikh Hasina was ousted as prime minister in an army coup on Monday. She fled Dhaka and sought refugee in India. File photo/AFP When things came to a head, Sheikh Hasina knew it wasnt safe to stay in Bangladesh. She not only had to resign as prime minister but also flee the nation, which she ruled for 15 years, in haste. Where would she go? She turned toward her friendly neighbour India. On Monday, the embattled leader left Dhaka, got into a military aircraft and landed at the Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad along with her younger sister Rehana. Its not the first time she has sought refuge in the country. Advertisement The sisters found themselves in India 49 years ago. In 1975, Hasina and Rehana sought Indias help after soldiers assassinated her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman along with seven family members including his 10-year-old son Russell. Hasina escaped because she was in Germany with her husband and Rehana. As life brings her back to India, we look at the story of her two stays. Throwback to 1975 Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is dubbed as the architect of independent Bangladesh. In 1971, he called on the People of East Pakistan to prepare to fight for the independence of Bangladesh. It led to the Liberation War and the country was formed. However, after independence tension gripped the army over the discrimination against some Bengali soldiers, who had not rebelled against Pakistan ahead of the war. The discontent grew and some young soldiers assassinated Mujibur Rahman and his entire family, paving the way for a military coup. Hasina and her sister Rehana did not meet the deadly fate, as they were in Germany at the time. They could not return to Bangladesh, a nation shell-shocked and plunged into turmoil. With nowhere to go, they called on India for help. New Delhi was a trusted ally; it had helped play a crucial role in Bangladeshs 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan. Advertisement Indira Gandhi was Indias prime minister and she extended refuge to Hasina, her husband MA Wazed Miah, her children and her sister. In 2022, Hasian recalled the execution of her family. It was unbelievable, she said. Mrs Indira Gandhi immediately sent information that she wanted to give us security and shelter We decided to come back here (Delhi) because we had in our mind that if we went to Delhi, from Delhi, wed be able to go back to our country. And then well be able to know how many members of the family are still alive," Hasina said in the 2022 interview, according to India Today. Advertisement India provided political asylum to Hasina. Indira Gandhi met her soon after she returned from Germany and assured her safety, providing her house. It was only on meeting Gandhi that Hasina learned that several members of her family were killed. The Bangladesh leader and her family stayed at 56 Ring Road, Lajpat Nagar-3 first. They then shifted to a house in Lutyens Delhis Pandara Road. During her time in exile in India, Hasina forged a close bond with Indian leaders like Pranab Mukherjee. File photo/PTI Hasinas secret life in Delhi In an interview in 2022, Hasina spoke about how she lived as a secret resident of Delhi. All members of the family took fake identities for security reasons. The Bangladesh leaders children a son and daughter were only toddlers then and that came with challenges of its own. The first two to three years were difficult, especially for the children. Advertisement Hasina recalled that her children would cry and miss their grandparents and uncle. They remembered my younger brother [Sheikh Russell] mostly, she said in the interview. During her six years in India, Hasina forged some strong ties. She became close to former Indian president and veteran Congress leader Pranab Mukherjee and the Gandhi family. She built connections which were instrumental in her political career. Hasina returned to Bangladesh after the situation started changing in the 1980s. After she was elected as the general secretary of the Awami League in absentia, she ended her stay in exile on May 17 1981. Bangladeshs Sheikh Hasina speaks at the opening session of the national parliament in Dhaka on July 14, 1996. After spending six years in exile in India, she returned to Bangladesh in 1981. File photo/AP Back seeking refuge in Delhi in 2024 Advertisement Hasina returned to Dhaka and fought against the military regimes and was first elected as Bangladeshs prime minister in 1996. Ironically, she was now ousted after an army coup. The Bangladesh army reportedly gave Hasina 45 minutes to resign. She quit and fled the country as anti-government protests turned violent. She once again turned to New Delhi for help. It obliged. External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar told Rajya Sabha on Tuesday that former Bangladesh PM apparently made the decision to resign and at very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. The Indian armed forces ensured her safe passage once the plane carrying Hasina entered the Indian airspace. On Monday, the Bangladesh leader and her sister landed at the Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad, about 30 km from New Delhi. She was received by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and then reportedly taken to a safe house. A woman walks past a barrier outside the Hindon Air Force Station, where Bangladesh leader Sheikh Hasina landed on Monday after fleeing her country amid violent protests, on the outskirts of New Delhi. AP Reports suggest that Hasina is seeking asylum in the United Kingdom. However, the UK government headed by Keir Starmer, said individuals seeking asylum must do so in the first safe country they reach, according to a report in NDTV. The UK has a proud record of providing protection for people who need it. However, there is no provision for someone to be allowed to travel to the UK to seek asylum or temporary refuge. With the UK not coming forth to accommodate her, her next move is unclear. For now, she is in India. At an all-party meeting held earlier on Tuesday, Jaishankar said Hasina is in a state of shock and the government is giving her time to recover before it speaks to her over various issues, including her future plans, the sources said. Hasina might not know whats next. But she can be certain that India is a friend in need. With inputs from agencies After fleeing Bangladesh in a military aircraft, Sheikh Hasina headed to India, her trusted ally. As her plane entered the Indian airspace, two Rafale jets were activated to provide any emergency assistance. On landing, she was greeted by NSA Ajit Doval at the Hindon Airbase and taken to a safe house read more Sheikh Hasina quit as Bangladesh prime minister and fled to India. She is likely to stay in the country until her asylum request is accepted by the UK. File photo?Reuters After 15 years in power, Bangladeshs Sheikh Hasina was ousted. The countrys army gave her 45 minutes to resign. As anti-government protests became violent and the situation spiralled out of hand, Hasina realised that she would have to leave the country. She reached out to New Delhi, a trusted ally, seeking safe passage. Her request was accepted within minutes. How did India help Hasina in the time of crisis? And what did she do after landing in the country? We explain. Advertisement Hasinas exit from Bangladesh After Hasina was forced to resign on Monday (6 August), she was offered a military helicopter by the Bangladesh army. She flew out of her official residence in Dhaka, Ganabhaban, which was stormed by protesters soon after she left. She was accompanied by her younger sister, Rehana. The Bangladesh leader headed to an army air base from where she reportedly boarded the C-130J military transport aircraft of the Bangladesh air force. At first, there was only speculation that she was heading to India. Indian forces ensure Hasians safe passage to the country As the ousted Bangladesh PM was airborne, the flight, AJAX1431, became the most-tracked flight on Flightradar24. Rumours swirled that she would be heading to Kolkata or Agartala. Around 3 pm, the aircraft was spotted flying near the Indian border. The Indian radar reportedly kept a close eye on the plane as it entered the Indian airspace and flew over Kolkata. The flight moved towards Bihar and then landed at the Hindon airbase in Uttar Pradeshs Ghaziabad. Protesters celebrate at Bangladeshs Parliament House premise after news of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas resignation, in Dhaka. AP The Indian Air Force also swung into action. Two Rafale fighter aircraft were activated to provide any assistance to the flight in case of an emergency, top defence sources were quoted as saying by India Today. The jets from the 101 Squadron at Hashimara Air Base in West Bengal were reportedly deployed over Bihar and Jharkhand. The flight was monitored closely by ground agencies. A constant communication was maintained between the plane and top Indian security officials. Advertisement India started monitoring a C-130 aircraft with call sign AJAX1431, around 10 km from the Indian border with Bangladesh, and it was heading towards Delhi. The Bangladesh Air Force plane crossed Patna around 4 pm and reached near the UP-Bihar border, sources told India Today. Indian Air Force Chief Air Marshal VR Chaudhari and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi were actively monitoring the situation. A top-level meeting of top security officials was also held with the involvement of intel agency chiefs, Gen Dwivedi and Integrated Defence Staff chief Lt Gen Johnson Philip Mathew, reports news agency ANI. Hasinas aircraft landed at Hindon Airbase around 5.45 pm on Monday (5 August). She was greeted by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Advertisement The C-130 aircraft, which ferried the Bangladesh leader, is parked near the Indian Air Forces C-17 and C-130J Super Hercules aircraft hangars. The Hindon Airbase was picked because of its proximity to Delhi; it is 30 km from the national capital. It would provide foolproof security to Hasina. Watch: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at Hindon Airbase pic.twitter.com/DpO8eiT8s5 IANS (@ians_india) August 5, 2024 Advertisement Hasinas stay in India After landing in India, Hasina held an hour-long meeting with Doval, discussing the current situation in Bangladesh and her future course of action. Senior military officials and officials of the intelligence agencies were also present, reports The Indian Express. She was then taken to a safe house in Delhi. According to a report in PTI, Hasina is likely to meet her daughter Saima Wazed, who is based in Delhi. Wazed works as the World Health Organizations regional director for South-East Asia. A Border Security Force (BSF) personnel stands guard at the India-Bangladesh border checkpost, at Hili in Dakshin Dinajpur district, on August 5. PTI For Hasina, India is only a temporary stop. She is reportedly seeking asylum in the UK. Advertisement Hasina is accompanied by her sister Rehana, who holds UK citizenship. However, the Bangladesh leader has not yet received any confirmation from London regarding political asylum. The Bangladesh leader was expected to meet top Indian diplomats on Monday. However, there is no confirmation if she will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is unclear how long Hasina will stay in India. However, sources told News18 that she is likely to stay until she gets asylum in the UK. India on alert On Monday night, the PM chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) and took stock of the situation in the neighbouring nation. Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and senior officials of intelligence agencies were present. Earlier, Modi was briefed about the situation in Bangladesh by Jaishankar. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, who is the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has also spoken with Jaishankar on the sidelines of the Parliament. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Principal Secretary to PM PK Mishra during a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on the situation in Bangladesh, in New Delhi, on August 5. Sheikh Hasina on Monday resigned as prime minister of Bangladesh and fled the country and came to India. PTI Indias Border Security Force is on high alert across the countrys 4,096 km border with Bangladesh. Field commanders have been ordered to take on ground positions and be prepared for anything. Top government officials held a meeting on Monday to plan evacuation efforts for Indians stuck in Bangladesh, including high commission officials. The IAF will be roped in and the effort is likely to begin on Tuesday (August 6). India has also heightened the security of Indian diplomatic facilities in Bangladesh. However, this is just the beginning. Challenges continue for New Delhi as the neighbouring nation is plunged into turmoil. With inputs from agencies After resigning and fleeing the country, Bangladesh leader Sheikh Hasina is now in India, with plans to seek political asylum in London. However, it seems her travel to the UK has hit a roadblock. Heres what we know about her stay in New Delhi and what could possibly be her next move read more Former PM of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, has sought for asylum in the UK. In the meantime, she remains in India after fleeing Bangladesh and resigning. File image/AP Forty-five minutes. Thats all the time now ousted Bangladesh prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, got to pack up and flee the country after resigning. Soon after she fled, a sea of protesters stormed her official residence the Ganabhaban and ransacked the premises. As per reports by Prothom Alo, a Bangladeshi daily, she had wanted to address the nation about her decision, but given the sea of protesters coming her way, authorities told her she had no time, resulting in her and her sister, Rehana, fleeing with a few of their bags. Advertisement On board a C-130 J transport aircraft, accompanied by seven military personnel, Hasina then made her way to India, landing at Ghaziabads Hindon air base on the evening of Monday (August 5). She met with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, accompanied by senior officials at the air base and has now moved to a safe house. It is reported that New Delhi carried out a massive exercise deploying Rafale jets to ensure that Hasina was granted safe passage to the country as part of her plan to travel to London where she will seek asylum. Now, hours after Hasina landed in India, she has yet to make any movement, with reports saying that she still remains in the safe house designated for her. The question then remains: How long will she stay in India? And what are the challenges of her staying here? How long will Hasina stay in India? After Hasina resigned as the prime minister of Bangladesh, she was offered a military helicopter by the Bangladesh army. She flew out of her official residence in Dhaka, Ganabhaban, which was stormed by protesters soon after she left. The Bangladesh leader headed to an army air base from where she reportedly boarded the C-130J military transport aircraft of the Bangladesh air force. Soon, her flight, AJAX1431, became the most-tracked flight on Flightradar24. Amid all the speculation on where she would land initial reports said that she would arrive in Kolkata or Agartala her flight made its way to Hindon Airbase around 5.45 pm on Monday (5 August) where she was greeted by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. The Hindon Airbase, according to many, was the eventual choice because of its proximity to Delhi; it is 30 km from the national capital. It would provide foolproof security to Hasina. Advertisement A woman walks past a barrier outside the Hindon Air Force Station, where Bangladesh leader Sheikh Hasina landed on Monday after fleeing Bangladesh amidst violent protests, on the outskirts of New Delhi. AP Following an hour-long meeting with NSA Doval, she was then taken to a safe house in Delhi. However, India is only a temporary stop for Hasina. She is reportedly seeking asylum in the UK. It remains unclear how much longer she will remain in India, but External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar dropped indicators on Tuesday that the former Bangladeshi PMs stay will continue for a while. Speaking to an all-party meeting in Parliament House, where Rahul Gandhi and others were present, S Jaishankar said that the government had spoken to Hasina about her plans for her future. The government wants to give Hasina some time to decide her future plan, sources quoted Jaishankar as saying. Advertisement External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah and other leaders during an all-party meeting about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh, at Parliament in New Delhi. PTI He added that it had not even been 24 hours since the former Bangladeshi PM had arrived in India and that she was in a state of shock. Moreover, the government was giving her time to recover before it spoke to her over various issues, including her future plans. Meanwhile, the plane that ferried her to India has left Hindon Airbase, as per a Hindustan Times report. The aircraft took off around 9:00 am with seven military personnel and was flying towards its base in Bangladesh. What about her UK asylum? Early on, when Hasina was en route to India, all reports stated that her stay in India would be temporary, as she is seeking political asylum in London, UK. According to a previous report, London seems to be the best option for Hasina, as the English capital has deep familial connections to her family. Her sister, Rehana, is a British citizen. Moreover, Hasinas niece, Tulip Siddiq, is an MP in the UK House of Commons and Junior Minister in the Keir Starmer government. Advertisement However, there seems to be a delay in granting her stay. The UK Home Office told CNBCTV18 that British immigration rules do not allow individuals to travel to that country to seek asylum or temporary refuge a sign that she may not get to travel to the UK. A mural of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina vandalised by protesters, a day after her resignation, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Reuters Moreover, the UK government also said individuals seeking asylum must do so in the first safe country they reach. The UK has a proud record of providing protection for people who need it. However, there is no provision for someone to be allowed to travel to the UK to seek asylum or temporary refuge, said the Home Office. Advertisement Those who need international protection should claim asylum in the first safe country they reach that is the fastest route to safety, a UK Home Office spokesperson also told NDTV. In the past, the UK has given political asylum to leaders, political agents and even spies from many countries. The UK has given asylum to former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif, pro-democracy lawmakers from Hong Kong, Russian spy Alexander Litvinenko and more people. However, there is a sizeable group of Bangladeshis in the UK who dont support her. Why Hasinas stay in India could be a problem? In case, the UK doesnt grant Hasina asylum, India faces the diplomatic dilemma of either allowing Hasinas stay in the nation or making her move. But its not an easy choice. If New Delhi permits the former Bangladesh PM to remain in the country, it gives the appearance that the nation is backing an ousted leader. Moreover, it may complicate relationships with the new government in Bangladesh. India cant afford to alienate or anger Bangladesh where an anti-India sentiment already exists if it wants to secure its position in the neighbourhood. However, India has long historical ties with Sheikh Hasina and her family. Before she became prime minister, the Indira Gandhi government had given her refuge when her family had been assassinated during the 1975 unrest in Bangladesh. Moreover, in her 15 years of power, she has been a staunch ally of the country, protecting Indias security interests. So abandoning her at this point will also not be an easy decision, considering her equations with Delhi. Anti-government protestors wave Bangladeshs national flag as they celebrate at Shahbag area, near Dhaka university in Dhaka. AFP What are Hasinas other options? If not India, or the UK, where else could Hasina go next? While there is no official confirmation, CNN-News18 has learned that she is exploring the option of going to Scandinavian countries as well. Another option that Hasina has, though very unlikely, is that she makes a return to Bangladesh. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy had indicated the same when he told CNN-News18 that she wont return to Bangladesh. With inputs from agencies Begum Khaleda Zia, former prime minister of Bangladesh, is in the limelight after her nemesis, Sheikh Hasina, resigned and fled the country. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson has been under home arrest since 2020. On Monday, President Mohammed Shahabuddin ordered her release read more Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia has been thrown into the spotlight after her country descended into political turmoil. Her arch-rival Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled Bangladesh on Monday (August 5) after over a month of deadly student protests over the quota system for government jobs. After Hasina stepped down and left the South Asian country, President Mohammed Shahabuddin, reportedly after a meeting with Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, announced the release of the key opposition leader Zia. Advertisement The presidents press said in a statement that it was decided unanimously to free Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia immediately. But who is Khaleda Zia? Why was she arrested? We explain. Who is Khaleda Zia? Zia, 78, is the chairperson of the BNP, who served as Bangladeshs prime minister multiple times. In fact, she became Bangladeshs first female prime minister in 1991. Zia was born in Jalpaiguri in undivided India in August 1945. Her foray into politics happened after her husband, Lt General Ziaur Rahman, a ruthless military officer, was assassinated in 1981. Rahman, who became Bangladeshs president in 1977, was killed in office. He had founded the BNP in 1978. During her first stint as Bangladeshs PM, Zia led the country through a period of civil unrest. As she was short of a majority, the BNP leader formed the government with the backing of Jamaat-e-Islami, as per NDTV. She returned to power in 1996 for a second term, however, her government survived for only 12 days. She stepped down after installing a caretaker government on the demand of the opposition parties led by the Awami League, reported Deutsche Welle (DW). Fresh elections were held in June of 1996, leading to Awami Leagues Hasina being elected to power. Advertisement Zia and Hasina led the governments in Bangladesh alternatively for years. Their political rivalry polarised Bangladesh politics, as per Associated Press. Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, left, looks over as new interim leader Mohammad Habibur Rahman speaks with opposition Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina, right, at Rahmans swearing-in ceremony in Dhaka Saturday, March 30, 1996. File Photo/AP Zia made a comeback in 2001 and served as the prime minister for a five-year term. She resigned in 2006 after her tenure ended and was arrested on charges of corruption and abuse of power a year later. Her younger son Arafat was also arrested for the same offence. Zias other son, Tarique Rahman, was also in prison at the time. Tarique fled to the United Kingdom later, where he has has since 2008. Zias arrest in 2018 Zia was jailed in 2018 for graft after being sentenced to 17 years. Her supporters had decried her arrest, saying the corruption charges were a politically motivated attempt to keep her out of power. Advertisement Asif Nazrul, a law professor at the University of Dhaka, told DW last year, Her trial was very controversial. Even at the appeal stage, her punishment was doubled by the high court, which is very rare in Bangladesh or many other common law states. She is the most popular leader in Bangladesh in terms of the constituency she won personally in the past parliamentary elections. This incumbent [Hasina] government could not have confronted her popularity except by detaining her, Nazrul added. In March 2020, the Hasina government allowed Zia to walk out of jail over health issues. The then Bangladeshi law and justice minister Anisul Haq said she was released on the condition that she remains in her Dhaka residence to receive treatment and does not go abroad. Advertisement Zia has been under house arrest since then. Over the last few months, she has been admitted to the hospital multiple times due to worsening health. In June, BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir claimed Zia was on her deathbed after she was rushed to the hospital. Accusing the Hasina government of harbouring a personal political vendetta against her political rival, he said at the time, Its our misfortune that our leader Khaleda Zia is now in critical condition on her deathbed without receiving any (necessary) medical treatment (abroad). ALSO READ: Why Sheikh Hasinas ouster from Bangladesh is bad news for India What does Zias release mean? Advertisement Zias release could be a boon for her party which has lost popularity in recent years. A power vacuum was created in the BNP after she was arrested in 2018. Her son, Tarique, who also faces corruption cases in his homeland, is the vice chairman of the party. Michael Kugelman, the director of the South Asia Institute at the Washington-based Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, told DW in 2023 that the BNP tried to boost Tariques image in Bangladesh amid the absence of his mother in the political scene, perhaps for a transition of power. But its difficult, even in a dynastic party, to transfer leadership duties to someone based abroad and far away. Not to mention, when you have someone who has been abroad for 15 years, there will be concerns that they are out of touch with ground realities, and thats not the perception you want people to have about the next party leader, he pointed out. BNPs Alamgir became the face of the opposition on the ground. However, the leadership of the party remains with Zias family. The former PM has urged people to remain calm and refrain from violence amid the current situation. Her son has also called for peace in the country. Now that Zia is going to be free, and if she chooses to re-enter politics amid the current upheaval, the BNP could benefit. With Hasina out of the picture and widespread anger towards her Awami League, the stage is set for the opposition to make the most of it and win the public. With inputs from agencies Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina resigned from office on Monday, following which she fled to India for shelter after violent riots gripped the nation. Reports indicate that Hasina will be travelling to the United Kingdom, where she has sought political asylum. Throughout history, political and civil upheavals have forced many world leaders to flee their homelands. Who are they? read more Sheikh Hasina (left) and Pervez Musharraf (right) are among the leaders who left their country amid political turmoil. Reuters Throughout history, political and civil upheavals have forced many world leaders to flee their homelands. On Monday, a similar drama unfolded in Bangladesh, where ruling Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister and escaped with her sister to a safer destination in India. However, India is not her final stop. Reports indicate that Hasina will be travelling to the United Kingdom, where she has sought political asylum, with speculations that she might also consider Finland. Advertisement Currently, Bangladesh is grappling with uncertainty and political turmoil following a deadly crackdown on demonstrations. What began as protests against job quotas escalated into a widespread movement demanding Hasinas ouster, resulting in hundreds of deaths. Protesters celebrate beside a defaced portrait of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after news of her resignation, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. AP Hasinas resignation and flight into exile mark the end of her 15-year stint in power. She has dominated Bangladeshi politics for 20 of the last 30 years, leading the political movement she inherited from her father and founder of Bangladesh, Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, who was assassinated along with most of his family in a 1975 coup. After this tragedy, Hasina sought refuge in New Delhi, where she lived with her children under an assumed identity for six years. She resided in India as a guest of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhis government before returning to Bangladesh in 1981 as the President of her fathers party, Awami League. Amid the political turmoil, Bangladeshs President Mohammed Shahabuddin has announced plans to form an interim government and dissolve parliament as soon as possible to stabilise the nation during this period of intense political uproar. Heres a list of world leaders who have fled their home countries after facing upheaval at home Gotabaya Rajapaksa (Sri Lanka) The President of Sri Lanka from November 2019 until July 2022, Gotabaya Rajapaksas administration was met with intense protests and public unrest after a severe economic crisis brought the island country to its knees. Advertisement According to BBC, the country had faced daily power cuts and even shortages of basics like fuel, food, and medicines. The President of Sri Lanka from November 2019 until July 2022, Gotabaya Rajapaksas administration was met with intense protests and public unrest after a severe economic crisis brought the island country to its knees. Reuters Initially, President Rajapaksa, along with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, attempted to manage the crisis. However, as protests escalated and became more violent, he was compelled to leave his official residence. His journey took him to the Maldives and then to Singapore, where he ultimately resigned from office. In September 2022, Rajapaksa returned to Sri Lanka and is now reportedly eyeing a political comeback ahead of the impending elections. Ashraf Ghani (Afghanistan) Ashraf Ghani served as the President of Afghanistan from September 2014 until August 2021. In the summer of 2021, as the Taliban made rapid advances across the country, Ghani faced mounting pressure and threats to his government. Advertisement On 15 August 2021, as the Taliban entered Kabul and the situation descended into chaos and panic, Ghani fled Afghanistan. In an interview with the BBC, the former president revealed that he was given no more than two minutes to prepare to flee the capital. He initially escaped to Tajikistan before moving to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, where he was granted asylum. On 15 August 2021, as the Taliban entered Kabul and the situation descended into chaos and panic, Ghani fled Afghanistan. Reuters Just a few days before Ghanis escape, an American military assessment had predicted that Kabul would not fall for weeks or even months, despite the militants advances elsewhere in the country. However, the Talibans takeover within hours was a stunning rout, highlighting the fragility of the Afghan government and security forces, which had been established by US and NATO efforts after spending billions over nearly two decades. Advertisement Pervez Musharraf (Pakistan) General Pervez Musharraf, who served as the President of Pakistan from 2001 to 2008, is another notable leader who fled his country amid political turmoil. Musharraf came to power in 1999 through a military coup, ousting then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, which allowed Musharraf to take over the country as president in 2001. However, Musharrafs tenure was also marred by controversy, including accusations of human rights abuses, political repression, economic inequality, and a crackdown on the judiciary. In 2007, he declared a state of emergency, suspended the constitution, and dismissed the Chief Justice and the countrys Supreme Court, which was about to rule his election candidacy invalid. Advertisement Thought to be the architect of the Kargil War, General Pervez Musharraf overthrew Nawaz Sharif in 1999. Reuters To avoid impeachment proceedings, Musharraf resigned from the presidency in 2008 and went into self-imposed exile in London. He later moved to Dubai. Despite facing numerous legal challenges in Pakistan, including charges of treason and the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, Musharraf returned to Pakistan in 2013 to participate in the general elections. However, his political comeback was short-lived, as he was disqualified from running for office and subsequently placed under house arrest. Musharraf remained in and out of legal battles and health crises until his death in 2023 in Dubai. Soeharto (Indonesia) President Muhammed Soeharto, who ruled Indonesia from 1967 to 1998, is who was forced to depart amid political turmoil in the Southeast Asian country. After coming to power through a coup, Soehartos rule was marked by economic growth but also massive corruption and human rights abuses. According to Amnesty International, up to half a million people, mostly his political opponents, were arrested and only about 1,000 were ever brought to trial. After coming to power through a coup, Soehartos rule was marked by economic growth but also massive corruption and human rights abuses. Reuters By the late 1990s, Indonesias economic crisis, exacerbated by the Asian financial downturn, led to widespread protests and unrest. In May 1998, as the demonstrations intensified and the situation became increasingly untenable, Soeharto resigned from the presidency after 31 years in power. Following his resignation, Suharto lived in seclusion in Jakarta, avoiding any significant legal repercussions despite widespread calls for his prosecution on charges of corruption and human rights violations. He, however, denied any wrongdoing until he died in 2008. Sadiq al-Mahdi (Sudan) Sadiq al-Mahdi, who served as Prime Minister of Sudan from 1966 to 1967 and again from 1986 to 1989, fled the country during a period of significant political and economic challenges. His government struggled with internal conflicts, including disputes between various political factions and ongoing civil unrest. In his second term, he formed a coalition government comprising his Umma Party and his brother-in-laws National Islamic Front. However, this coalition proved to be unstable and in June 1989, al-Mahdi was overthrown in a military coup led by Brigadier Omar al-Bashir. Al-Mahdi was overthrown in a military coup led by Brigadier Omar al-Bashir. Reuters Following the coup, al-Mahdi lived in exile in several countries and headed the opposition from abroad, before returning to the country in 2018. He was later re-arrested but managed to flee again in 2019. He succumbed to a COVID-19 infection in 2020. Aristide (Haiti) Jean-Bertrand Aristide, Haitis first democratically elected president, faced exile during his tumultuous political career. Initially elected in 1991, Aristide was overthrown in a military coup later that year and fled to the United States. He returned in 1994 after a US-led intervention restored him to power. Jean-Bertrand Aristide, Haitis first democratically elected president, faced exile during his tumultuous political career. Reuters Aristides second term, beginning in 2001, was marked by instability as the country faced political, social and economic crises_._ In February 2004, amid a violent rebellion, he fled Haiti again, first to the Central African Republic and then to South Africa. After seven years in exile, Aristide returned to Haiti in 2011. With input from agencies Bangladesh has seen a spate of violent attacks on Hindus, their homes and their places of worship in the political turmoil accompanying Sheikh Hasinas exit. Now, with the possibility of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami coming to power, some fear refugees could come pouring into India across the 4,096-kilometre border with Bangladesh read more On Monday, an Indian cultural centre in Dhaka and four Hindu temples across the country were attacked. AP Does India need to brace for a refugee crisis? Bangladesh has seen a spate of violent attacks on Hindus, their homes and their places of worship in the political turmoil accompanying Sheikh Hasinas exit, according to several media reports. Two Hindu councillors were left dead in Sundays violence while a number of homes and temples belonging to the community were vandalised. On Monday, an Indian cultural centre in Dhaka and four Hindu temples across the country were attacked. Advertisement But what happened exactly? Should India brace for a refugee crisis? Lets take a closer look: What happened? As per The Daily Star, Haradhan Roy was of the Parshuram Thana Awami League and councillor of Ward 4 in Rangpur city was killed on Sunday. Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the Economic Advisory Council of the Prime Minister, wrote about Roys lynching on social media. As a Bengali Hindu and a descendant of refugees, find this particularly chilling, he posted on X. As per New Indian Express, Kajal Roy, a Hindu councillor from Rangpur, was also among the 100 killed in Sundays violence. Meanwhile, homes and temples belonging to Hindus, including ISKCON and Kali temples, were attacked. On Monday, the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre, in Dhakas Dhanmondi, was vandalised. The Centre, formally inaugurated in March 2010, promotes bilateral cultural linkages between India and Bangladesh by organising cultural programmes, cultural seminars, workshops and engaging India based Gurus professionals and trainers for Yoga, Hindi, Indian classical Vocal Music and Indian Dances such as Kathak and Manipuri. It also engages high class professionals from Bangladesh who had their training from Indian Gurus or in Indian Universities. Advertisement The Centre, a Cultural Centre of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations of India, has a library with over 21,000 books in the fields of Indian art, culture, politics, economics and fiction. As per News18, an ISKCON temple in Bangladeshs Meherpur was set ablaze on Monday. One of our ISKCON centres (rented) in Meherpur was burnt, including the deities of Lord Jagannath, Baladev, and Subhadra Devi. Three devotees who lived in the centre somehow managed to escape and survive, ISKCON spokesperson Yudhistir Govinda Das tweeted. A Kali temple in the same area was also set ablaze. A demonstrator gestures as protesters clash with Border Guard Bangladesh and the police outside the state-owned Bangladesh Television as violence erupts across the country after anti-quota protests by students, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. File image/Reuters A number of videos purportedly of Hindus being attacked in Bangladesh have gone viral. Advertisement These include a woman pleading for her life in front of a mob, a temple in Navgraha Bari being set ablaze and another woman screaming while a man sets a house on fire. Firstpost has not confirmed the authenticity of the videos. Kajol Debnath, leader of the Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, told the Economic Times that the temples suffered minor damage. But that will be of little comfort to Hindus, who comprise around eight per cent of Bangladeshs population around 13 million people. My phone is flooded with SOS, videos, and details of Hindus being attacked, and killed in Bangladesh as we speak now. Temples are being attacked at a very large scale. Let me tell you, in Dhaka, even Muslims who supported the Awami League are at life risk now. Cars are being checked. I know a journalist who called me pleading to rescue him to New Delhi. He is a Muslim. Now, imagine the condition of Hindus in Bangladesh. Even as you and I talk, the tolls are mounting in real-time, most of which will go unreported and whose photos will be labelled fake news from a section of even this side of the border, Deep Halder, author of the book Being Hindu in Bangladesh told News18. Advertisement Monindra Kumar Nath, senior joint general secretary of Oikya Parishad, told Daily Star the community is frightened. They (Hindus) are crying, saying they are being beaten up, and their houses and businesses are being looted. What is our fault? Is it our fault that we are citizens of the country? Nath said. Where would we go if such attacks continue here? How can we console the members of the Hindu community? he further said. Should India brace for a refugee crisis? The possibility that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami could come to power has raised fears of a possible refugee crisis in India. Advertisement The two countries share a 4,096-kilometre border along West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram. As per Deccan Herald, many are worried about a redux of the situation that Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland are facing after the Aung San Suu Kyi-led government was overthrown in Myanmar. Over 35,000 refugees from Myanmar including MPs and ministers remain in Mizoram. The crisis was thought to be one of the reasons behind the Meitei-Kuki conflict in Manipur. In Assam, the Asom Jatiya Parishad (AJP), in a statement demanded that the Centre take immediate steps to secure the border. Immediate steps must be taken to prevent influx as Assam cannot take further burden of illegal migrants. The BJP-led government has failed to fence the borders, identify and expel the foreigners as agreed in the Assam Accord of 1985. The National Register of Citizens (NRC), which sought to detect all post-1971 immigrants, has still not been implemented. The fear of infiltration has increased after the Narendra Modi government implemented the CAA that seeks to welcome the non-Muslim migrants from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, till 2014, AJP general secretary, Lurinjyoti Gogoi wrote. The Print quoted sources in the West Bengal government as saying that the Indian Army has been positioned in Bongaon and Cooch Behar along the border. Meanwhile, Border Security Force (BSF) director-general has also changed his schedule to reach Kolkata. BSF sources told The Print that the situation along the border remains normal. Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, warned the Mamata Banerjee government in West Bengal to brace itself. If this situation doesnt come under control within three days, mentally, be prepared to give refuge to one crore Hindu refugees. The Centre should inform the (Bengal) Governor and Chief Minister. There is CAA. If the situation is not controlled there, Jamaat and radicals will take control, Adhikari said. Jaishankar on Tuesday said the situation in Bangladesh was still evolving, as per The Tribune. The situation in Bangladesh, is still evolving. The Army Chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman spoke about assuming responsibility and constituting an interim government," Jaishankar said. He added that it is particularly worrying that minorities, their businesses and temples also came under attack at multiple locations. The full extent of this is still not clear." India on Sunday night strongly advised all its nationals presently residing in Bangladesh to exercise extreme caution and restrict their movements in the wake of fresh waves of violence in the neighbouring country. In its latest advisory, India also asked its citizens not to travel to Bangladesh till further notice. In view of ongoing developments, Indian nationals are strongly advised against travelling to Bangladesh till further notice, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in the advisory. All Indian nationals presently in Bangladesh are advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements and remain in contact with the High Commission of India in Dhaka, it said. The student protests in Bangladesh started last month against a controversial job quota scheme. The protests now have turned into an anti-government agitation. On July 25, the MEA said around 6,700 Indian students returned from Bangladesh in view of the situation in that country. With inputs from agencies Shortly after Sheikh Hasina fled the country and resigned as prime minister, the Bangladesh army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced that an interim government would take over. This new administration reportedly consists of economists, former policymakers, former retired judges and former members of the army. Some say that Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus will be the chief adviser read more People step on an image as they react to the resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in East London, Britain. An interim government will now take over the administration of the country. Reuters Sheikh Hasinas out. After demonstrations turned violent on Sunday, and a sea of protesters descended upon the prime ministers official residence the Ganabhaban Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced her decision to resign and fled the nation, seeking safety in India. Shortly after, Bangladeshs army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman addressed the nation, stating that an interim government would now run Bangladesh and called for calm. The country has suffered a lot, the economy has been hit, many people have been killed it is time to stop the violence, said Waker, dressed in military fatigues, shortly after jubilant crowds stormed and looted Ganabhaban, the Bangladesh prime ministers official residence. Advertisement He added that he would talk to the president to form the interim government and had held talks with the main opposition parties and civil society members but not Hasinas Awami League. The question now arises: Who shall head this interim government? When will elections be held? For those who want answers, heres what we found out so far. Forming an interim government According to media reports, General Waker-Uz-Zaman held consultations with leaders of some parties including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jatiya Party, Jamaat-e-Islami in the emerging situation. In the same meeting representatives of students and teachers were also present. Later, President Mohammed Sahabuddin, as per a report by Prothom Alo, also held a meeting with the chief of three services, political leaders, representatives of civil society and quota leaders aiming to form the interim government. President Mohammed Sahabuddin chaired the meeting where a condolence resolution was taken in memory of those killed in the anti-quota movement and prayers were sought for forgiveness and peace for their departed souls, said a press release. The meeting also decided to form an interim government soon. It was after this meeting that it was announced that BNP chief Begum Khaleda Zia would be released immediately. Moreover, it was also announced that all prisoners detained for quota protests would be released. Advertisement People take pictures with the Bangladeshi flag, inside the Ganabhaban, the prime ministers residence, after the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Reuters Whos who in the interim government It is still unknown whether General Waker-Uz-Zaman would lead the interim government. However, as per reports, key organisers of the Anti-Discriminatory Student Movement who were in charge of the anti-quota protests that led to Hasinas ouster have proposed Nobel Laureate Dr Mohammad Yunus as the chief advisor of the interim government. As per the Daily Star, Nahid Islam, one of the key coordinators of the movement, said they have already talked with Professor Yunus, and he has given his consent considering the present situation of the country. Professor Yunus gained international prominence in 2006 when he was awarded the Nobel Prize for founding the Grameen Bank and pioneering the concepts of microcredit and microfinance. A critic of Hasina and her administration, he was convicted by the Hasina-led government in January for violating the countrys labour laws and is currently out on bail. Advertisement Speaking earlier about Hasinas resignation, he said: Bangladesh is liberated We are a free country now. We were an occupied country as long as she (Hasina) was there. She was behaving like an occupation force, a dictator, a general, controlling everything. Today all the people of Bangladesh feel liberated. People climb the statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at the Bijoy Sarani area, as they celebrate the resignation of the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Reuters Notably, Yunus, according to a report in The Print, is currently in Paris. He told the media outlet that he would soon return to Bangladesh. Besides Yunus, the names of Dr Salimullah Khan and Md Nazrul Islam, also known as Dr Asif Nazrul, have been recommended to be part of the interim government. It is reported that the BNP floated the name of Dr Salimullah Khan to head the interim government. Advertisement Dr Khan is a prominent public intellectual known for his analysis of national and international politics and culture through Marxist and Lacanian theories. He is regarded as one of Bangladeshs leading intellectuals. He is known to make guest appearances on talk shows on domestic and global politics on Bangladeshi television networks. Similarly, Dr Asif Nazrul is a Bangladeshi author, novelist, columnist, political analyst, and law professor at the University of Dhaka. Nazrul, who has written over 10 novels and non-fiction books, is well-known for his harsh critique of Bangladeshi politics. Nazrul currently teaches law at the University of Dhaka. He formerly worked for the Bangladeshi government as an administrative officer and writer. Advertisement Other names proposed According to a News18 report, a total of 27 names have been proposed who shall be a part of the interim government in Bangladesh. Among these names, there is also General Iqbal Karim Bhuiyan (retired), who was the Chief of Army Staff of the Bangladesh Army from 2012-2015. Notably, General Bhuiyan was among the 48 retired army officers on Sunday (August 4) who had called on the government to withdraw the armed forces from the streets immediately. In a statement, he had read: Today we appeared here because we are deeply concerned, troubled and saddened by all the egregious killings, tortures, disappearances and mass arrests that have been tormenting Bangladesh over the past three weeks. A man poses at the Ganabhaban, the prime ministers residence, pointing to graffiti after the resignation Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Reuters Other notable names to be reportedly a part of the interim government are Justice Md Abdul Wahhab Miah (retired), the former Chief Justice of Bangladesh; Major General Syed Iftekhar Uddin (retired), former Inspector General of Prisons; Dr Debapriya Bhattacharya, economist and former Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the WTO and UN Office in Geneva; Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, a journalist and editor-in-chief of the Manab Zamin, a Bengali tabloid; Brigadier General M Sakhawat Hossain (retired), former Election Commissioner of Bangladesh; Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman, economist and Bangladesh Rehabilitation Assistance Committee (BRAC) chairperson, and Justice M A Matin (retired), retired judge of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. Tough job ahead While Bangladeshs future remains uncertain as of now, one thing is certain; things are going to be tough for those in charge. As Irene Khan, a UN special rapporteur was quoted as telling Al Jazeera, Theres a very tough job ahead. Al Jazeeras Tanvir Chowdhury agreed with this assessment, telling the media outlet that the message from the protesters is that whoever comes to power next will now know that they wont tolerate any kind of dictatorship or mismanagement and that the students will decide. Meanwhile, foreign nations such as the US have said that the interim government in Bangladesh should be formed according to democratic principles, rule of law and the will of the Bangladeshi people. We want to see the Bangladeshi people decide the future of the Bangladeshi government, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters at his daily news conference. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also called for a peaceful, orderly and democratic transition as well as a full, independent, impartial and transparent investigation into all acts of violence, his spokesman Farhan Haq said. With inputs from agencies It seems the world is in turmoil. From violent anti-immigrant protests in the UK to clashes in Bangladesh, there is unrest in several countries around the world. Here are the nations that you better not travel to for the time being read more A burnt car is removed after a night of violent anti-immigrant demonstrations, in Sunderland, Britain, August 3, 2024. Reuters The rioting in the United Kingdom has prompted India to issue an advisory to its citizens to exercise caution. This comes as large-scale protests have erupted across the country against the governments immigration policies. The violent anti-government protests in Bangladesh also led to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) recommending against travel to its neighbouring country. In recent weeks, India and several other countries have warned their citizens in some countries, including Israel, to stay vigilant. Advertisement Which countries should you avoid currently? Lets take a closer look. UK The High Commission of India in London on Tuesday (August 6) asked Indians to be cautious and vigilant while travelling to the UK. Visitors from India are advised to stay vigilant and exercise due caution while travelling in the UK. It is advisable to follow local news and advisories issued by local security agencies, and to avoid areas where protests are underway", the advisory read. It also said the Indian High Commission is closely monitoring the situation. The advisory comes in the wake of violent clashes between far-right protesters and police officers across the UK. These were triggered by the tragic killing of three children at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop in Southport last week. A 17-year-old boy identified as Axel Rudakubana, who was born in Cardiff, has been arrested. However, the incident led to the spread of disinformation on social media about the boys nationality and religion, sparking hatred towards the Muslims and the immigrant population in the country. False rumours had spread that the accused was a Muslim asylum-seeker. Advertisement Nigeria, Australia, Indonesia and Kenya have warned their nationals about the situation in the UK. Malaysias Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was closely monitoring the situation in the UK and urged its citizens to stay away from protest areas and remain vigilant. Bangladesh The situation has been tense in Bangladesh since student protests broke out in July. The United States has recommended its citizens not to travel to Bangladesh. On August 5, 2024, the Department ordered the departure of non-emergency US government employees and family members. Travellers should not travel to Bangladesh due to ongoing civil unrest in Dhaka, the US State Department said in its advisory. Advertisement On Sunday (4 August), India urged its nationals not to travel to Bangladesh until further notice. In view of ongoing developments, Indian nationals are strongly advised against travelling to Bangladesh till further notice, the MEA said. It also asked Indian nationals in Bangladesh to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements and remain in contact with the High Commission of India in Dhaka. The advisory came on the day over 100 people died and dozens were injured in the country as protestors demanded Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas resignation and clashed with the police and members of Chhatra League, the student wing of her party Awami League. Advertisement Hasina was forced to resign yesterday amid the deadly protests. She has fled Bangladesh and is currently at a safe house in Delhi. Protesters celebrate beside a defaced portrait of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after news of her resignation, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, August 5, 2024. AP India had previously issued an advisory on July 18, asking its citizens in Bangladesh to avoid local travel and restrict their movement. The MEA had said on July 25 that about 6,700 Indian students had returned from Bangladesh amid the violent protests. Over 280 people have died in the anti-government demonstrations in Bangladesh that began last month. Israel Israel has been embroiled in a war with Hamas in Gaza since last October. The Benjamin Netanyahu-led government says 1,200 people were killed on October 7, 2023 when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel. Advertisement Soon after the assault, Israel declared war which led to over 39,000 casualties in Gaza. The West Asian country, which has the backing of the US, has been widely criticised for the bloodbath in the narrow strip. Calls for ceasefire have intensified with even the US urging Israel to halt its attacks. However, the ceasefire talks were dealt a bloody blow after the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, a senior Hamas leader, in Irans Tehran on July 31. Hamas and Tehran blamed Israel for the killing and vowed retaliation. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied its role in the incident. The US has denied any involvement in the Hamas leaders killing. After Haniyeh, the report of the death of the head of Hamas military wing, Mohammed Deif, emerged. Last week, the Israeli military said it has confirmed Deif was killed in an airstrike in Gaza in July. The two key Hamas leaders death has fuelled further unrest in an already volatile West Asia. On August 2, India issued a notice for its nationals in Israel, asking them to stay vigilant and follow safety protocols. Please exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel within the country and stay close to safety shelters, the Indian Embassy said in its advisory. *IMPORTANT ADVISORY FOR INDIAN NATIONALS IN ISRAEL* Link : https://t.co/OEsz3oUtBJ pic.twitter.com/COxuF3msn0 India in Israel (@indemtel) August 2, 2024 About 18,000 Indians are living in Israel as students, construction workers, professionals and caregivers, as per The Hindu. Air India too has suspended flights to Tel Aviv until August 8. Amid the tensions, Canada has asked its nationals to avoid all travel to Israel due to the ongoing regional armed conflict and the unpredictable security situation. Avoid all travel due to the ongoing regional armed conflict and the unpredictable security situation. The security situation can deteriorate further without warning, the advisory read. On 31 July, the US asked its nationals to not travel to Gaza due to terrorism and armed conflict. It also suggested against travel to northern Israel within 2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders due to the rising tensions between the Lebanese group Hezbollah and Israel. It also urged them to reconsider travel to Israel and West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest. Iran Iran is ready to take revenge on Israel for the killing of Haniyeh on its soil. The Hamas top political leader was in the Iranian capital of Tehran for the inauguration ceremony of the new Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian when he was killed. Tehran blamed Israel and the US for the assassination of a guest, threatening retaliation for the violation of its sovereignty. Tehrans attack is imminent now. It seems a matter of not if but when. Iran remains in the US highest Level 4: Do Not Travel category. So far, India has not issued a travel advisory on Iran. Lebanon India has suggested its citizens leave Lebanon and avoid travel to the West Asian country amid heightened tensions. Those who remain for any reason are advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements and remain in contact with Embassy of India in Beirut through their email id: cons.beirut@mea.gov.in or the emergency phone number + 96176860120, the Indian embassy in Lebanon said on August 1. Updated travel advisory for Indian Nationals. pic.twitter.com/vDTao33LnM India in Lebanon (@IndiaInLebanon) August 1, 2024 This came after Israel killed Hezbollah senior commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. Earlier on August 1, India had advised against non-essential travel to Lebanon but did not recommend leaving the country. The US, the UK, Australia, France, Canada, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Turkey and Jordan have also urged their citizens to leave Lebanon as soon as possible. Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militia, has vowed retaliation against Shukrs assassination. India had issued the first travel advisory on July 29, after the the rocket attack in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights that killed 12 children and teenagers. Israel has blamed Hezbollah for the strike, claiming Shukr was behind it. In view of this incident, India had advised its nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Lebanon. Israel and Hezbollah have engaged in continuous firing recently. Fears of Lebanon getting dragged into a wider conflict in West Asia are at an all-time high now. Several airlines are also avoiding the Iranian, Israeli and Lebanese airspace. British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced the creation of a standing army of specialist police officers to swiftly respond to widespread far-right violence and misinformation-fuelled riots across the UK. This new unit aims to provide immediate support to overwhelmed local forces and ensure that those responsible face swift justice read more Police officers stand guard as counter-protesters push against the police cordon on the day of a protest against illegal immigration, in Bolton, UK, August 4, 2024. Reuters British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently announced the creation of a standing army of specialist police officers aimed at addressing widespread riots and far-right violence that have erupted across the UK. This initiative, intended to bolster the countrys ability to swiftly respond to public disorder, follows an emergency COBRA meeting attended by senior ministers and police chiefs. The new force will operate similarly to existing mutual aid arrangements, where police officers are deployed to different regions to assist with major events. Advertisement However, this standing army will be a more structured and readily available unit, designed to respond quickly to emerging threats. WATCH: What is behind this move? The recent violence has been partly fuelled by misinformation circulating on social media, leading to a series of attacks on mosques and immigration centers. The unrest began after a stabbing incident at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, which tragically resulted in the deaths of three young girls and injuries to several others. Rumours falsely claimed that the attacker Axel Rudakubana, was a recent immigrant, igniting a wave of anti-immigrant sentiment and far-right activity. This is not protest, it is pure violence. We will have a standing army of public duty officers. We will ramp up criminal justice. We will apply criminal law online as well as offline. We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities. pic.twitter.com/C1SmjJjo4R Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) August 5, 2024 Starmer addressed the nation, stating, Whatever the apparent motivation, this is not protest. It is pure violence, and we will not tolerate attacks on mosques or our Muslim communities. The full force of the law will be visited on all those who are identified as having taken part in these activities. Advertisement What will the standing army do? The standing army will consist of specialist public order officers who can be quickly mobilised to areas experiencing unrest. This measure comes as existing police forces have struggled to contain the scale of the violence, which has spread to multiple cities including London, Liverpool, Rotherham, and Belfast. The initiative is not a military intervention but an enhancement of the polices capability to manage large-scale disturbances. A burnt car is removed after a night of violent anti-immigrant demonstrations, in Sunderland, UK, August 3, 2024. Reuters Starmer said, We will have the officers we need, where we need them. The second is we will ramp up criminal justice. There have already been hundreds of arrests, and some have appeared in court this morning. Advertisement What about the piling court cases? The UK governments response also includes a push for swift justice for those involved in the riots. The backlog in the Crown and Magistrates courts, exacerbated by a decline in court staff and resources, presents a significant challenge. However, the government is determined to expedite the legal process. Courts are prepared to handle cases quickly, with early identification and sentencing of offenders. Put simply: If you engage in violent protests, you will face the full force of the law. pic.twitter.com/4zDDqgX1sv Home Office (@ukhomeoffice) August 5, 2024 Advertisement Cassia Rowland, a senior researcher at the Institute for Government, told AP, Thats not a problem you can fix overnight, and its going to be difficult, I think, for the system to cope with the influx of demand that were likely to see as a result of this disorder. Speaking to Sky News, Tana Adkin KC, chair of the Criminal Bar Association said, The system is already working at maximum capacity. Also Read: Worst riots in 13 years hit UK over misinformation about child murders, 90 arrested Advertisement Despite these challenges, the government has made it clear that those responsible for the violence will face severe penalties. Deputy District Judge Liam McStay, presiding over cases in Belfast, denied bail to two men involved in the riots, asserting, The events at the weekend were absolutely disgraceful: a concerted and deliberate attempt to undermine public order and to then domineer the community, and there were racist elements to it. How will the UK tackle misinformation? A significant aspect of the unrest has been the role of social media in spreading misinformation and inciting violence. The UK government has criticised platforms for not doing enough to prevent the spread of harmful content. There have been calls for tighter regulations and more proactive measures by social media companies to curb the dissemination of false information and hate speech. UK Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle stated, Social media has provided a platform for this hate, indicating that the government might push for more stringent controls on online content. Today, the Technology Secretary @peterkyle met with TikTok, Meta, Google and X, to make clear their responsibility to continue to work with us to stop the spread of hateful misinformation and incitement. Read his statement below pic.twitter.com/v1Kyl6dpSh Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (@SciTechgovuk) August 5, 2024 The controversy surrounding X owner, Elon Musk, who commented, Civil war is inevitable, has also drawn criticism from the government. Civil war is inevitable Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 4, 2024 Starmers office condemned the statement, stating that such remarks do not reflect the sentiments of the broader UK population. Far-right mob vs. vulnerable communities The violent incidents have sparked a wide range of reactions from political figures and community leaders. Oliver Coppard, the mayor of South Yorkshire, expressed his horror at the events, stating, We saw a violent far-right mob come down to attack 240 of the most vulnerable people in our society and try and burn them in the hotel in which they were living. That is not OK, and there is no excuse for it. UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper declared, There is no justification none for taking this action and all right-minded people should be condemning this sort of violence. People in this country have a right to be safe and yet, weve seen Muslim communities targeted, attacks on mosques, other minority communities singled out, Nazi salutes in the street, attacks on the police, wanton violence alongside racist rhetoric. Criminal violence and thuggery on our streets will not be tolerated. Police forces have my full support in ensuring that those who engage in criminal disorder face the strongest possible penalties. pic.twitter.com/ZqoOHVXnVR Yvette Cooper (@YvetteCooperMP) August 3, 2024 In response to the violence, the UK Home Office announced additional funding of 29 million for the protection of mosques and other vulnerable community centers. This measure aims to provide immediate security enhancements to safeguard against further attacks. Also Read | We have seen bot activity online: Did a foreign country fan UK riots? With inputs from agencies Bangladeshs embattled leader Sheikh Hasina is hoping the UK will accept her asylum request. While she waits for the Labour governments decision, reports have emerged that the US has revoked her official visa. But why? read more Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina's official visa has reportedly been cancelled by the US. File Photo/Reuters While the United Kingdom is being hesitant about her asylum request, reports have surfaced of the United States revoking Bangladeshs embattled leader Sheikh Hasinas visa. The 76-year-old was forced to resign on Monday (August 5) as the prime minister and flee her country. Hasina has sought refuge in India for the moment and sought asylum in the UK. However, her request has not been approved yet, as per reports. Now, some reports say the US has revoked Hasinas official visa. Advertisement What is going on? Lets take a closer look. Has the US cancelled Hasinas visa? The US has revoked the ousted Bangladesh prime minister Hasinas visa, reported News18. Journalist David Bergman made a similar claim on X citing sources close to the US State Department. He said it was not clear whether Hasina had plans to travel to the US. BREAKING: The United States government has revoked former #Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visa to the United States, sources close to the State Department have confirmed. Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh on Monday afternoon, and is currently in India deciding her next David Bergman (@TheDavidBergman) August 6, 2024 The embattled leaders son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, lives in the US state of Virginia with his wife. Hasinas relations with the Joe Biden administration have been tense. The US criticised the January elections in Bangladesh that marked the return of the Awami League leader to power. The opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) had boycotted the polls, accusing Hasinas government of rigging the vote. Advertisement Sheikh Hasina had tense ties with the Biden administration. File Photo/AP In May, Hasina had accused a Western government of trying to establish a military base in Bangladesh by force, without naming any country. As per The Hindu report, it is not known whether Hasina had applied for a US visa after her ouster. However, officials said her present visa on her official passport would be no longer valid as she was no longer the PM. ALSO READ: UK, Bangladesh & more: Why you should steer clear of these countries for now Why is the UK reluctant to grant her asylum? The UK has been non-commital about accepting Hasinas request for asylum. As per the UKs immigration law, there is no provision for people outside the UK to apply for asylum or temporary refuge, The Hindu reported. Advertisement The UK government has not formally commented on whether Hasina has sought asylum. On Monday (August 5), UK foreign secretary David Lammy issued a statement on the situation in Bangladesh. However, he made no comments on Hasina or her request. The last two weeks in Bangladesh have seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life. A transitional period has been announced by the Chief of the Army Staff, his statement said. All sides now need to work together to end the violence, restore calm, deescalate the situation and prevent any further loss of life. The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past few weeks. Advertisement The UK wants to see action taken to ensure Bangladesh a peaceful and democratic future. The UK and Bangladesh have deep people-to-people links and shared Commonwealth values, Lammy added. People climb the statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at the Bijoy Sarani area, as they celebrate the resignation of the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka, Bangladesh, August 5, 2024. Reuters Hasinas asylum request to the UK comes as her sister Sheikh Rehana, who fled with the ousted Bangladesh PM, holds UK citizenship. Rehanas daughter, Tulip Siddiq, is a minister in the current Labour government. Hasina had formally sought permission to travel to the UK soon after landing near Delhi on Monday, hoping to travel to London on board the Bangladesh Air Force plane that brought her to India, reported The Hindu. However, the UK is yet to green-light her request. Advertisement The UK government sources told PTI that the country has a proud record of giving protection to people who need it, however, its immigration rules do not allow someone to travel to the UK to seek asylum or temporary refuge. Those who need international protection should claim asylum in the first safe country they reach that is the fastest route to safety, a UK Home Office spokesperson told NDTV. Sources say that, however, the formal asylum request is being processed. Strategic experts believe it is not an easy decision for the UK, which had provided refuge to Hasinas late father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in January 1972 after the countrys Liberation War. Sheikh Hasinas desire to relocate to the UK, where her sister and niece live, puts the UK government in a dilemma. UK foreign secretary David Lammy has called for a UN-led investigation into the violence of the past few days. If this is held, it will likely hold Sheikh Hasina accountable to some degree and would look bad for the British government if she were then in the UK with the grant of political asylum, Rahul Roy-Chaudhury, Senior Fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in London, told PTI. But, at the same time, the UKs long-standing links with Sheikh Hasinas family makes it difficult to ignore her request. A possible solution would be to give Sheikh Hasina leave to enter the UK where she could live in self-exile. But, with Sheikh Hasinas niece being a Labour MP and minister, the optics of this will be challenging, he added. As per The Hindu, officials said the UK is worried about the pressure from Hasinas rival Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) loyalists in the country. There are also concerns that the former Bangladesh PMs could be accused of human rights violations during her tenure. If the UK declines her asylum request, India would unlikely be too keen to extend her stay. She might not want to dwell here either due to its closeness to her home country. With inputs from agencies After his name was proposed by the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus was appointed as the head of Bangladeshs interim government. Amid allegations of political persecution and a contentious relationship with ousted PM Sheikh Hasina, Yunuss acceptance of this role marks a pivotal moment in the countrys future read more Employees of Grameen Bank walk in front of a portrait of Nobel laurate Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka. File image/Reuters If the students can sacrifice so much, if the people of the country can sacrifice so much, then I also have some responsibility. Then I told the students that I can take the responsibility." On Tuesday, amid the political turmoil in Bangladesh, Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus agreed to be the chief advisor of the interim government in Bangladesh after student protesters from the Students Against Discrimination (SAD) pushed Yunus case for the post. Advertisement Later, in the evening, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved Parliament and the Nobel Peace Prize winner as the head of an interim government. The other members of the interim government will be finalised after consultations with various political parties, the presidents press secretary said. Who is Muhammad Yunus? Muhammad Yunus was born on June 28, 1940, in the coastal city of Chittagong, Bangladesh. He grew up in a well-off family, with his father being a successful goldsmith. Yunuss early life was reportedly influenced heavily by his mother, who was known for her generosity towards those in need. Yunus pursued higher education in the United States on a Fulbright scholarship, where he earned a PhD in economics. He returned to Bangladesh shortly after the country gained independence from Pakistan in 1971. Muhammad Yunus (R) is seen outside his house while his wife Afrozi (C) speaks to reporters in Dhaka, October 13, 2006. File Image/Reuters He became the head of the Economics Department at Chittagong University but soon found himself troubled by the severe poverty and famine affecting the nation. Poverty was all around me, and I could not turn away from it, Yunus once said. I found it difficult to teach elegant theories of economics in the university classroom I wanted to do something immediate to help people around me. Advertisement What is Muhammad Yunuss Grameen Bank? Yunuss desire to make a tangible impact led him to experiment with providing small loans to impoverished people, primarily women, who lacked access to traditional banking services. This experimentation gave birth to the Grameen Bank in 1983, which offered microloans to help individuals invest in small businesses and improve their living conditions. Grameen Banks innovative model has since been replicated in numerous countries, proving to be a powerful tool for poverty alleviation. A view of the head office of the Grameen Bank in Dhaka, October 13,2006. File Image/Reuters As of 2020, Grameen Bank had over nine million clients, with more than 97 per cent of its borrowers being women. Yunuss philosophy was simple yet revolutionary: even the poorest could work to bring about their development. Advertisement This approach earned him and the bank the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006, with the Nobel Committee acknowledging their efforts to create economic and social development from below. Yunus awarded highest civilian award of the US Beyond the Nobel Peace Prize, Muhammad Yunus has received several other prestigious awards, including the United States Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2010. Then US President Barack Obama (R) presents the Medal of Freedom to microfinance pioneer Muhammad Yunus during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House in Washington, August 12, 2009. File Image/Reuters In 2011, Yunus co-founded Yunus Social Business Global Initiatives (YSB) with Saskia Bruysten, Sophie Eisenmann, and Hans Reitz. YSB works to create and empower social businesses worldwide, aligning with Yunuss vision of a humane capitalism. Advertisement Also Read | Sheikh Hasina in India: Why Bangladeshs embattled leader turned to New Delhi in her moment of crisis Yunus also served as the Chancellor of Glasgow Caledonian University in Scotland from 2012 to 2018 and has been involved with several organisations, including serving on the board of directors of the United Nations Foundation from 1998 to 2021. Yunus catches Hasinas ire Despite his global acclaim, Yunus has faced significant challenges in his home country. His relationship with Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina has been notably strained. Hasina has publicly criticised Yunus and Grameen Banks microfinance practices, once referring to him as a blood-sucker of the poor. Advertisement In 2011, Yunus was removed from his position as the managing director of Grameen Bank on the grounds of exceeding the legal retirement age, a decision he contested but was upheld by Bangladeshs top court. Bangladeshi Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus (2nd L) arrives in court for a hearing in Dhaka, March 7, 2011. File Image/Reuters Yunus has been embroiled in several legal issues, including accusations of embezzlement and failing to establish a workers welfare fund, for which he and three colleagues were sentenced to six months in jaila sentence immediately stayed pending appeal. These charges have been widely criticised as politically motivated, with figures like Irene Khan, a former Amnesty International chief, describing the conviction as a travesty of justice. In 2022, Grameen Telecom, a firm chaired by Yunus, faced a graft probe over allegations of embezzling employee funds. Critics argue that these legal battles are part of a broader effort to discredit Yunus due to his potential political influence and his previous attempts to establish the Nagorik Shakti (Citizen Power) party in 2007, which posed a challenge to Bangladeshs political elite. The current situation Amidst the recent political upheaval in Bangladesh, Yunus has remained a prominent figure. Despite the Anti-Discrimination Student Movements call for him to lead an interim government, Yunus has publicly expressed reluctance to enter active politics. In an interview with news outlet The Print, Yunus stated, I am not the type to enter politics. However, with his agreement to serve as the chief advisor to an interim government, as stated by the student movement leaders, Yunuss role in shaping the future political landscape of Bangladesh remains a subject of keen interest and speculation. With the only question remaining Can Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus steer Bangladesh through its crisis? Also Read: Why Bangladesh protesters want Muhammad Yunus to lead next government With inputs from agencies During the meeting, EAM Jaishankar allayed apprehensions about border security, saying that no worrying number of people are trying to enter India. All checkpoints between the two nations are under watch and there is no increase in the number of people crossing the border from Bangladesh' read more The NDA-led Central Government on Tuesday convened an all-party meeting to discuss the situation in Bangladesh. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar briefed the ongoing developments in the neighbouring country after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled Dhaka on Monday. Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended. pic.twitter.com/tiitk5M5zn Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 6, 2024 Advertisement During the meeting, EAM Jaishankar allayed apprehensions about border security, saying that no worrying number of people are trying to enter India. All checkpoints between the two nations are under watch and there is no increase in the number of people crossing the border from Bangladesh. On Monday, after Hasina left the country, the situation at the border turned tense prompting the government to mobilise security forces in the areas. The Border Security Force (BSF) has issued a high alert across all its formations along the 4,096-km India-Bangladesh border in the wake of the developments in the neighbouring country, officials said. BSF Director General (Acting) Daljit Singh Chawdhary and other senior commanders toured the front in West Bengal to review the security situation. The DG landed in Kolkata around 10.30 AM on a flight from Delhi. In the meeting, which was attended by various politicians, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, voiced support for the central government and said they will be on the same page about any decision the government takes on the situation. On Sheikh Hasinas whereabouts Hasina landed at Ghaziabads Hindon Airbase on Monday with her sister Sheikh Rehana. She is reportedly still in Delhi, however, her exact whereabouts are unknown. Advertisement During the all-party meeting, the foreign minister discussed Hasinas arrival in India but did not give any details about her future travel plans. Jaishankar said, Right now we are only ensuring Sheikh Hasina settles down, let her recover and be comfortable to discuss her plans, according to News18. Priority is to safeguard minorities Meanwhile, India has decided to prioritise the safety of Hindu minorities in the country with reports of atrocities against them already surfacing. Jaishankar said, 8,000 students have come back after government advisory. Govt in touch with Indian nationals. High Commission is functioning. It is a fluid situation, too premature to comment more. He added that the government is currently in wait and watch mode and is in touch with the Bangladesh Army to ensure the safety of Hindus living in the country. Advertisement Too premature to say anything on foreign hand When Congress MP Rahul Gandhi asked if the crisis in Bangladesh was set off by any foreign governments, Jaishankar said that one Pakistani diplomat changed his profile photo in support of the country, adding that its too early to say anything on this. Gandhi also asked if the unrest in Bangladesh has given rise to anti-India feelings in the country, to which Jaishankar said, We are cognisant of this. Bangladesh needs India for many resources. In his address in the Rajya Sabha EAM S Jaishankar said, At very short notice, Sheikh Hasina requested approval to come for the moment to India read more External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Tuesday told Rajya Sabha that former prime minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign and at very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. On August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is after a meeting with leaders of security establishments, Sheik Hasina apparently made the decision to resign, the minister said. Advertisement At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday (August 5) evening in Delhi, he further said. The minister, emphasising that Hasina placed a request to come to India for the moment, indicates that she is in the country only to stop over in the interim of her forward journey. Hasina was forced to resign from the prime ministerial post in Bangladesh and she fled from Dhaka on August 5 after weeks of protests against a quota system for government jobs descended into violence and grew into a bigger challenge to her 15-year rule. The situation in Bangladesh is still evolving. The Bangladesh Army Chief Waker-Uz-Zaman addressed the nation on August 5. He spoke about assuming responsibility and constituting an interim government. Govt in lose & continuous touch with Indians in Bangladesh Jaishankar further told the Upper House of parliament that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there of which about 9000 are students. The bulk of the students have already returned in the month of July on the advice of the High Commission. Advertisement #WATCH | Speaking in Rajya Sabha on the situation in Bangladesh, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar says, "...We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there pic.twitter.com/SJSv1hkQ1f ANI (@ANI) August 6, 2024 The EAM further said that the government is monitoring the situation with respect to the minorities in Bangladesh. According to local media reports, Hindu temples have been vandalised in the violence after Hasina fled Dhaka. On August 4, events took a very serious turn. Attacks on police, including police stations and government installations, intensified even as level of violence greatly escalated. Properties of individuals associated with the regime were torched across the country, the Union Minister said. Also Read: Is Sheikh Hasinas stay in India set to get longer? UK says fastest route to safety is What was particularly worrying was that minorities, the businesses and temples also came under attack at multiple locations. The full extent is still not clear, he further said. Advertisement Indias diplomatic presence in Bangladesh In terms of our diplomatic presence, in addition to the High Commission in Dhaka, we have Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna and Sylhet. It is our expectation that the host government will provide the required security protection for these establishments. We look forward to their normal functioning once the situation stabilises, Jaishakar said. We are also monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being. Naturally, we will remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored, he said. Advertisement Forces at border asked to be exceptionally alert Our border guarding forces have been instructed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation. In last 24 hours, we have been in touch with authorities in Dhaka." The minister ended his address by saying, I seek the understanding and support of the House in regard to the sensitive issues regarding an important neighbour on which there has always been strong national concerns. This is a breaking news. Refresh for more updates. Bangladesh, post-Sheikh Hasina, is a massive strategic-security challenge for India, especially West Bengal and the sensitive Northeast. But it is also a gigantic disadvantage for America, with Pakistan and China all set to do a tango in Dhaka read more There is something intrinsically hypocritical about Western diplomacy when it comes to democracy. The Americans are particularly prone to the malaise. Historically, they are comfortable conducting businesses with autocrats and dictators. There are so many anecdotal instances where American politicians and diplomats showed their wearied disgust for the deliberative system in India, but preferred the men in khaki across Indias western border and wilfully played Chinese checkers with Mao and his men. Advertisement Yet, every time an American diplomat meets an ally, especially of non-European origins, their discussion would invariably veer towards democracy, free and fair elections, and human rights. Fareed Zakaria, in his book The Future of Freedom, mentions a similar incident surrounding then Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. Annoyed by persistent American exhortation on democracy, Mubarak reportedly asked, If I were to do what you ask, Islamic fundamentalists will take over Egypt. Is that what you want? Incidentally, Mubarak was one of the first casualties of the 2010-12 Arab Spring, and he was replaced by an Islamist leadership backed by the Muslim Brotherhood. The Saudis, too, have often reminded Americans that if they pressed their government too hard, the likely alternative to the regime is not Jeffersonian democracy by a Taliban-style theocracy. The current political crisis in Bangladesh seems to be the latest manifestation of the American obsession with democracy. Even a person with a cursory understanding of Bangladeshi politics will understand Sheikh Hasina, who resigned on Monday as Prime Minister, was the last person standing between democracy (howsoever distorted it may appear) and jihadism, between secularism (howsoever skewed that may be in reality) and hard-core Islamism. Minorities in Bangladesh see no future for themselves without Sheikh Hasina at the helm of affairs, with one professor from a Dhaka university coming up with a research report saying there wont be a minority in Bangladesh in three decades if the current trend continues. Unfortunately, for Hindus, post-Hasina, things have only worsened. Already one hears Hindus being targeted across Bangladesh, and even an ISKCON temple has been vandalised. Straight out of CIA playbook If anyone has seen the regime changes in South America (one is currently witnessing the making of one in Venezuela) and also revolutions of different hues like the one in Ukraine (Orange Revolution), the Bangladesh coup seems to have played straight out of the CIA playbook with tactical support from George Soros-like elements. So, how does this CIA-inspired revolution play out on the ground? It all begins with the Guardians of the Earth, led by Americans, questioning the veracity of election results in a country. This will bring out a section of people in the said country, howsoever dubious they may be, to be a part of this obnoxious agenda. Soon, there would be protests, which would start on a small note. These vested internal elements would then join the agitation, which would then be flamed by CIA & Company. These foreign players would set the narrative so well that once the coup is done, the people on the ground would celebrate it, calling it a liberation. Advertisement Hasnt Bangladesh followed the same path? In fact, to the misfortune of Sheikh Hasina, the entire controversy was not her making either. It was a judicial verdict, and not the executive decision, which brought the protesters on the street. Today, the court remains in place, but Sheikh Hasina is displaced. Thats the beauty of the CIA playbook. This brings us to the question: What does the US gain out of displacing Sheikh Hasina? If chaos and anarchy are the objectives, then the move is spot on. Also, if the idea is to put India in a state of bother, especially after Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose to visit Moscow the day the Americans were celebrating 75 years of NATO in Washington, DC, then it, again, has hit the nail on its head. Ironically, the US may, in a Faustian bargain, handover Bangladesh to Pakistans ISI. And if Pakistan is around, can China be far behind? More so, when Emperor Xi Jinping was already upset with Sheikh Hasina for her India-first policy. In fact, things were so shaky that last month, Sheikh Hasina had suddenly cut short her China visit, the first in five years. Advertisement So, Bangladesh, post-Hasina, is a massive strategic-security challenge for India, especially West Bengal and the sensitive Northeast. But it is also a gigantic disadvantage for America, with Pakistan and China all set to do a tango in Dhaka. But then, those who have seen the Americans committing a hara-kiri in Ukraine, just because they wanted to fix Vladimir Putin, who in turn was forced to sit firmly on the Chinese lap, further strengthening the Chinese side, they wont be surprised with the Dhaka move. The Bangladesh crisis should be a wake-up call for India. The current dispensation isnt quite liked in the West, nor is it the preferred side for Beijing and Islamabad. People like Soros have already shown their disdain for the Narendra Modi government. In this backdrop, India should be wary of, and prepared for, a CIA-like toolkit at play. They just need a protest. And there are many in India whose livelihood rests primarily on protests. The so-called farmers protest was contained, but post-Bangladesh jubilation, the anti-India forces may again gang up for one last pushback. Advertisement Sadly, for the US, it would again be a losing proposition, especially when China has already gathered enough wind to challenge American authority. But then, the sole superpower, of late, is prone to making wrong choices and disastrous decisions. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. In all probability, if the groups behind the fall of Sheikh Hasinas government in Bangladesh occupy power in the country, the relationship between New Delhi and Dhaka could be marred, adding another hostile neighbour to India in an already disturbed South Asia read more India is already in an antagonistic situation with Pakistan in the west and China in the north, but now, with the fall of Sheikh Hasina's regime in Bangladesh, India faces the eventuality of being surrounded on all sides by unfriendly neighbours As the dramatic events in Bangladesh concluded with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fleeing the country, an inevitable realisation descended on Indian minds that we now possibly have a hostile eastern border. India is already in an antagonistic situation with Pakistan in the west and China in the north, but now, with the fall of Sheikh Hasinas regime in Bangladesh, we face the eventuality of being surrounded on all sides by unfriendly neighbours. Advertisement While Indias bilateral relationship with China is on the edge, with India having to aggressively counter aggression on the borders, the relationship with Pakistan is bitter. In all probability, if the groups behind the fall of Sheikh Hasinas regime in Bangladesh occupy power in the country, the relationship between New Delhi and Dhaka could be marred. Muslim Identity and Deep State The two groups, which are also the main political opposition to Sheikh Hasinas regime in Bangladesh and the power behind the mass protests that brought down the Hasina government, Jamaat-e-Islami and Bangladesh National Party (BNP), are both anti-secular. They both operate on the belief that Bangladesh, which was founded on secular principles, must maintain an Islamic identity as its former avatar of East Pakistan. In fact, it was Ziaur Rehman, BNP founder, who removed the word secular from Bangladeshs constitution. The Jamaat even opposed the creation of Bangladesh and opposed the idea of independence from Pakistan in order to retain Muslim unity. While both of these groups were kept in control by Hasinas party and were jailed for war crimes, they eventually mobilised people in the country, radicalising them and being adequately funded by Pakistans ISI. The involvement of Pakistan is albeit natural, as it may seek to establish control over its amputated limb. However, a curious case emerges here with the probable involvement of the US Deep State. Advertisement The US factor While reports exist of links between the Jamaat, BNP, and Pakistans ISI, the natural question that arises is: for an already bankrupt state like Pakistan, which is barely able to put food on the tables of its own people, how is it able to mobilise big money required to carry out a regime change in Bangladesh? And herein, the answer lies in the details. Sheikh Hasina has accused the US of meddling in the internal affairs of Bangladesh and plotting to topple her government. The Biden-led US has on several occasions explicitly indicated that it will not tolerate subversion of principles that it considers democratic in Bangladesh and shall act against any forces looking to hold on to power against the will of the people, i.e., the Hasina government. Advertisement The United States has a long history of effecting regime change by funding opposition camps, anarchy against the elected regime that does not support US interests, and even bringing countries on the brink of economic collapse or warall under the garb of upholding democracy. More often than not, these interests are more self-serving than idealistic; in Bangladeshs case, the US seeks to establish and hold control at such a strategic location so as to check China in the Indo-Pacific as well as retain pressure on India to deter its fast-paced growth. The excuse of democracy does not seem to apply to countries like Pakistan and Ukraine, which the US continues to support and fund, bailing them out of bankruptcy over and over. Advertisement Opening the seas could tilt the power in Indias favour. Historically, India was a strong economic and cultural capital; its geographical location and extensive trade by sea with nations near and far are what enabled its position of power. With hostile neighbours on all three sides, India must explore ways to strengthen strong comprehensive strategic partnerships and intensify trade with its extended neighbourhoodthe Southeast Asian nations, Indo-Pacific powers, and the Middle East. Roughly before the 18th century, not only was India the net provider of knowledge and security by exporting its military power as well as its ideology of Hinduism and Buddhism in the Indian Ocean, but it also used these bilateral relationships to secure its own prosperity through intensive and advanced trade. It has, for a large part of history, been the largest military manpower market and a significant source of advanced weapons. In combination with the fertile agricultural land it used to produce and export food to the world, India has been a force to be reckoned with. Advertisement While invasions, colonisation, and misrule have plagued India for a couple of centuries, we are well on our path to modernise the aforementioned sectors, in addition to the new technological advancements, and grow them on a scale adequate to meet global demands. With a non-expansionist identity and idealistic integrity, India is looked at as a friend to most of the world, in particular the Global South. Opening up trading channels through our seas, deepening relationships with partner countries, exporting military strength to counter expansionist forces, and disseminating ideological, ancient knowledge to a world looking for answersthe Indian peninsula could just be the counter to the hostility that India faces from its neighbours. Priyam Gandhi Mody is an author and political communications expert. She has written four best-selling books. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the writer. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. India must continue to engage all political forces in Dhaka and nurture its excellent ties with the Bangladeshi army read more Sheikh Hasinas sudden resignation and flight from Bangladesh illustrates the fickleness of history. The abiding images of a protester astride the shoulders of Bangabandhus statue, hammering away at the face, mark the end of an era in which his daughter Hasina sought to preserve his legacy. The surreal scenes included protestors storming the Prime Ministers residence, raiding the larder and dining sumptuously, before making off with a range of goods. From chicken and fish to furniture, nothing was spared as the pillagers streamed out with the booty onto the streets of Dhaka in a festive procession. Some individuals even made off with personal vestments from the prime ministerial wardrobe, resembling in the process the haberdasher of Canterbury Tales as they trudged along the streets. Advertisement South Asia is witnessing a disturbing trend of popular unrest dictating political terms. The victory lap by opponents of the regime in Dhaka was eerily reminiscent of previous instances involving throngs of people lounging about in the leaders residence and looting what they could. Whether it was the democratically elected Gotabaya regime in Sri Lanka or President Ashraf Ghani in Afghanistan, the scenes are similar. Even in Pakistan, where the Army rules the roost, Tehreek-e-Insaf supporters had brazenly trespassed the corps commanders residences. In all these cases, the security establishment, at some point, has given in to the outrage on the streets and benevolently countenanced the final denouement. The political opposition, supported by civil society groups that are ideologically against the establishment, are capitalising on public discontent and joining forces to bring about change. The Jana Aragalaya movement in Sri Lanka was sparked off by leftist opposition groups with others joining the fray. In Bangladesh, the student movement for quota reform was hijacked by the opposition parties, especially the right. Sheikh Hasinas ouster had perhaps been in the making. On June 5, the High Court gave a verdict cancelling the circular of 2018 that had done away with the 30 per cent quota for the offspring of freedom fighters, whereby a scheme of the Awami League, widely resented as political patronage, had been reinstated. It is relevant to note that the courts, perhaps acting in the governments interests, had earlier abolished the quota system as a response to widespread protests against the reservations. This time around, after the protests mounted, the Supreme Court ordered on 21 July that the quotas be reduced. However, this was rear guard action at best, and proved to be too little too late in reversing the mounting tide of the quota reform movement. The involvement of the Chhatra League, the student wing of Hasinas Awami League, in the violent confrontations with the demonstrating students, in league with the Bangladesh police, brought matters to a feverish pitch. Violence boiled over to engulf the entire capital on an unprecedented scale. Advertisement As the body count increased, the opposition, especially the Chhatra Shibir of the Jamaat-e-Islami, associated by their detractors with thuggery, descended upon the streets, destroying public property and engaging in arson. It appears that the movement was well planned. The manner and scale of the riots point a finger to the direct participation of political cadres as well, since students in general have refrained from such vandalism in the past. In hindsight, it appears that the Hasina government faltered on several counts. The obstinacy in refusing to have a dialogue with the leaders of the Students Against Discrimination group, coupled with the initial deployment of the police and Bangladesh Border Guard to maintain order, did not succeed in keeping a lid on the situation. Labelling students as Razakars a derogatory term often used against the opposition to compare them with quislings who collaborated with the West Pakistani regime during Bangladeshs liberation struggle in 1971, and as terrorists, only inflamed passions. Even after the death toll had crossed 200 , the government had balked at acknowledging the seriousness of the situation. Another miscalculation was the belief that the Supreme Court verdict reducing the quota to 5 per cent would help assuage feelings. Advertisement The unwillingness of the Hasina government to investigate instances of police firing and bring enforce accountability is being cited as the spark that lit the prairie fire. By the time her government freed a few leaders, the movement had snowballed into a larger political phenomenon. The protestors pushed for a single uncompromising demand the resignation of Sheikh Hasina. By then, she was contending with the agitated teachers and parents of the students killed in police action as well as the Jamaat and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The latter were quick to seize the opportunity to twist the knife further. Advertisement As the circumstances evolved, a social media campaign had urged the army to stand by the people. On 4 August, one day before Hasina had to flee, 48 retired Army officers had appealed to the government to refrain from using the army to crack down on protestors. Eventually, the army made it clear that it would stand by the nation and not the government. The finale was precipitated by the army giving 45 minutes to Sheikh Hasina to resign and leave the country. The takeover by the army is tempered by the fact that its Chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, is a distant relative of Sheikh Hasina who has served her government in various positions. Besides, he has already announced his intention to work to put in place a civilian interim government, though the outcomes and timeframe are far from clear. Before making the announcement, General Waker met the Amir of the Jamaat and some of the BNP and Jatiya party leaders. For now though, it seems that the army may be prepared, even constrained, to steer the country and restore stability. Advertisement In the aftermath of the 1990 democratic transition, this is the second instance of the army taking charge. This could not have transpired without the tacit concurrence of certain Western powers, which have a major say in UN peacekeeping operations a key source of revenue for Bangladeshi officers and soldiers. That the US spokesperson Miller regarded the protestors as lawful and appreciated the fact that the army resisted calls to crackdown on them, is a clear indication of the US having its chestnuts in the fire. Notably, there was no censure of the military takeover. In underlining the need to ensure an orderly and peaceful transition towards a democratically elected government in full respect of human rights and democratic principles the EU seems to be implying that Sheikh Hasinas government had failed to meet the standard. Neither China nor Pakistan have commented on the developments. China has close links with all the opposition parties as well as the army. Reports hint at Pakistans long-standing links with right-wing forces. Hasinas downfall is attributed by observers to alleged corruption, suppression of the media, enforced disappearances and the stringent application of the Digital Security Act. Bangladesh, the youngest nation in South Asia, is now moving on to the next phase of its chequered history. Bangladeshi youth appear far removed from the realities that shaped the liberation struggle. Nostalgia about the Awami Leagues contribution, or the cardinal role played by Hasinas father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in the formation of Bangladesh, has gradually faded. From Indias perspective, stability in Bangladesh is of paramount importance in relation to security in the Northeast. India will have to be prepared for a possible influx of Hindu refugees caught in the violence as well as beleaguered Awami League cadres fleeing for their lives. Over the past decade, Prime Minister Narendra Modis government has been proactive and successful in building friendly and cooperative ties with its neighbour. India must continue to engage all political forces in Dhaka and nurture its excellent ties with the Bangladeshi army. Going forward, India could well strengthen its considerable developmental partnership and enhance people-to-people linkages. Such a policy should serve India well, regardless of the composition of the new government in Bangladesh. The author is the Director General of the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, New Delhi. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. The West Bengal CMs soft approach to the refugees may also have implications for Indias national security and foreign policy. The porous border between West Bengal and Bangladesh can be exploited by anti-India elements read more A maelstrom of violence and instability has engulfed Bangladesh, prompting the precipitous departure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This seismic event has sent shockwaves across the region, with far-reaching consequences for neighboring West Bengal. As the tumult in Bangladesh intensifies, the political, social, and economic fault lines in West Bengal begin to tremble. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee faces a daunting challenge as the influx of refugees threatens to upend the states delicate demographic balance. This volatile mix could ignite existing tensions, fueling communal discord. Banerjees humanitarian stance, while admirable, may be exploited by political adversaries to fan the flames of nationalism and communalism. The specter of communal violence looms large, threatening to shatter the fragile peace. Advertisement The social fabric of West Bengal, woven from a rich tapestry of communal harmony, may fray under the strain of sudden demographic shifts. The arrival of refugees could spark conflicts over resources, jobs, and housing, testing the states infrastructure and Banerjees administration. The challenge of integrating refugees while maintaining social cohesion will require deft handling and sensitive governance. Economically, the crisis presents a double-edged sword. While an influx of labor may bring long-term benefits, the immediate impact could be a surge in unemployment and economic strain. The states economy, already under pressure, may struggle to provide for the sudden influx of people. Strategic planning, international support, and proactive governance are crucial to mitigate the adverse effects and navigate these turbulent waters. As West Bengal teeters on the brink of turmoil, Banerjees leadership will be tested like never before. Another Refugee Crisis The recent turmoil in Bangladesh, triggered by the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has raised fears of another refugee crisis in West Bengal. The state, which shares a 2,216-kilometer border with Bangladesh, has witnessed several waves of migration since the partition of India in 1947. The influx of refugees has shaped the states demography, politics, and culture, but also posed significant challenges. The first major exodus occurred during the partition, when millions of Hindus fled from East Pakistan to West Bengal to escape communal violence. The second wave came during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, when an estimated 10 million people crossed the border to escape the genocide perpetrated by the Pakistani army. Advertisement The third wave followed the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, in 1975, when his supporters and secularists sought refuge in West Bengal. The fourth wave occurred in the aftermath of the Babri Masjid demolition in 1992, when Hindu-Muslim riots erupted in Bangladesh. These migrations have had a profound impact on West Bengals society and economy, creating a complex mosaic of identities, languages, religions, and cultures. They have also fueled tensions between the refugees and the natives, often along communal lines. The refugees have faced discrimination, deprivation, and hostility from some sections of society while also contributing to the states development and diversity. Advertisement The current crisis in Bangladesh threatens to unleash another wave of refugees, who may seek shelter in West Bengal. This could exacerbate the existing problems of overcrowding, unemployment, poverty, and communal polarization. It could also create security risks, as some elements may exploit the situation to infiltrate or foment trouble. The state government, led by Mamata Banerjee, will have to deal with this humanitarian emergency with compassion and caution, balancing the needs of the refugees and the locals. The central government, too, will have to play a constructive role, providing assistance and coordination. The international community, especially Indias neighbors, will have to work together to restore stability and democracy in Bangladesh and prevent a humanitarian catastrophe. West Bengal, which has a long history of hosting refugees, will have to brace for another test of its resilience and solidarity. Advertisement Demographic and Economic Challenges, Communal Tensions The recent turmoil in Bangladesh, leading to a surge in refugees entering West Bengal, poses significant demographic, economic, and religious challenges for the state. The influx of refugees can potentially alter the demographic composition of West Bengal, straining its social fabric and economic resources. West Bengal has historically absorbed waves of migrants from Bangladesh, particularly during periods of political instability and violence. The current situation is no different, with thousands fleeing to escape the unrest. This continuous inflow contributes to a demographic shift, increasing population density in an already crowded state. The migration often includes entire families, leading to higher birth rates and a burgeoning young population, which can further strain public resources like healthcare and education. Advertisement Economically, the arrival of refugees has a dual effect. On the one hand, refugees provide a labor force willing to work for lower wages, which can benefit sectors like agriculture and small-scale industries. However, this also leads to increased competition for jobs, exacerbating unemployment among local workers. The pressure on public services, including housing, sanitation, and healthcare, intensifies, leading to higher government expenditures. Furthermore, the influx of refugees can contribute to informal and illegal economic activities as migrants struggle to secure livelihoods. This includes unauthorised occupations and participation in the informal economy, which undermines the formal economic structure and complicates regulatory efforts. The demographic changes can also heighten religious tensions in West Bengal. The state has a history of communal harmony, but the sudden and large-scale influx of predominantly Muslim refugees from Bangladesh can disrupt this balance. Political entities may exploit these tensions for electoral gains, further polarizing communities. Historical narratives of migration have shown that such demographic changes can lead to communal clashes and increased societal friction. In light of these challenges, it is imperative for West Bengals administration to adopt a multifaceted approach. This includes robust demographic planning, economic strategies to integrate refugees into the formal economy, and measures to maintain communal harmony. Effective policy implementation and international cooperation are essential to managing the refugee crisis without exacerbating existing socio-economic and religious tensions. A Flawed Approach Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal, has declared that she will welcome any person coming from Bangladesh due to the ongoing turmoil. This is a flawed and irresponsible approach that can have serious consequences for West Bengal and India. Banerjees soft stance ignores the demographic, economic, and religious challenges posed by the influx of refugees, which can jeopardise the states stability and security. West Bengal already has a high population density, with over 1,000 people per square kilometer. The arrival of refugees will add to this burden, creating pressures on public services, infrastructure, and resources. The states economy, which is largely dependent on agriculture and informal sectors, will struggle to absorb the additional labor force, leading to unemployment and poverty. Moreover, the refugees may engage in illegal activities such as smuggling, trafficking, and terrorism, posing a threat to national security. Risky Move West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had said at her July 21 rally in Koljata that she would welcome any person coming from Bangladesh due to the ongoing turmoil there. While this gesture may seem humane and generous, it is also a risky move that can have serious consequences for West Bengal and India in terms of economy, social fabric, population, and communal harmony. West Bengal already hosts millions of refugees from previous waves of migration from Bangladesh, which have strained its resources and infrastructure. The state has one of the highest population densities in India, with 1,029 people per square kilometer, as per the 2011 census. Adding more refugees will only worsen the situation, creating more pressure on public services like health, education, and housing. The states economy, which has been lagging behind other states in terms of growth and development, will also suffer from increased unemployment and poverty. Moreover, the influx of refugees will disturb the delicate balance of religious diversity in West Bengal, which has a Muslim population of 27 per cent, as per the 2011 census. The majority of the refugees are likely to be Muslims, who may face discrimination and hostility from some sections of the Hindu majority. This could fuel communal tensions and violence, which have already erupted in the past over issues like citizenship, land, and culture. The states politics, too, will be affected by the refugee issue, as different parties will try to woo or alienate them for electoral gains. Banerjees soft approach to the refugees may also have implications for Indias national security and foreign policy. The porous border between West Bengal and Bangladesh can be exploited by anti-India elements, such as terrorists, smugglers, and infiltrators, who may pose as refugees. This could jeopardise Indias internal security and its relations with Bangladesh, which is a key partner in the region. Therefore, Banerjee should reconsider her stance and adopt a more pragmatic and cautious approach to the refugee crisis. She should coordinate with the central government and the international community to find a lasting solution to the unrest in Bangladesh and ensure that the refugees are properly screened, registered, and accommodated without compromising the interests and well-being of the state and the country. The author, a columnist and research scholar, teaches journalism at St. Xaviers College (autonomous), Kolkata. He tweets at @sayantan_gh. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Musks original lawsuit, filed in March, was met with OpenAI releasing emails that showed Musk agreeing to the companys plan to raise more money and move away from open-source releases of its products. Following this, Musks team withdrew the suit, without any explanation read more The core of Musk's complaint revolves around allegations that Altman and Brockman have strayed from OpenAI's founding agreement. Musk claims that when he co-founded OpenAI in 2015, it was based on the promise that the organisation would operate as a nonprofit. Image Credit: Reuters, Reuters Elon Musk has initiated a new lawsuit against OpenAI and two of its founders, Sam Altman and Greg Brockman. This legal action comes two months after Musk withdrew a similar lawsuit, and it raises significant questions about the direction and values of OpenAI. The core of Musks complaint revolves around allegations that Altman and Brockman have strayed from OpenAIs founding agreement. Musk claims that when he co-founded OpenAI in 2015, it was based on the promise that the organization would operate as a nonprofit, prioritizing safety and openness for the benefit of humanity over profit. Advertisement However, Musk contends that these objectives have been abandoned, particularly highlighted by OpenAIs partnership with Microsoft. The lawsuit describes the actions of Altman and Brockman as perfidy and deceit of Shakespearean proportions. Musks lawyer, Marc Toberoff, has emphasized the differences between this new lawsuit and the previous one. He states that this lawsuit aims to hold Altman and Brockman accountable for their alleged misrepresentations to Musk and the public. Toberoff claims that the lawsuit seeks the disgorgement of ill-gotten gains obtained through these misrepresentations. In response to the lawsuit, OpenAI pointed to a blog post published in March, reaffirming the companys commitment to ensuring that artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity. An OpenAI spokesperson also noted that the emails Musk referenced in the original lawsuit, which was withdrawn in June, continue to speak for themselves. Musks original lawsuit, filed in March, was met with OpenAI releasing emails that showed Musk agreeing to the companys plan to raise more money and move away from open-source releases of its products. The reasons for the withdrawal of this initial lawsuit in June were not disclosed by Musks legal team. This new lawsuit underscores the ongoing tension between Musk and the current leadership of OpenAI. It raises critical questions about the governance and ethical direction of organizations involved in developing advanced AI technologies. The outcome of this legal battle could have significant implications for the future of OpenAI and its mission. Advertisement As Musk seeks a jury trial, the tech and AI communities will closely watch the developments in this case, which may set important precedents for how foundational agreements and ethical commitments are upheld in rapidly evolving technological fields. A federal judge ruled that Google monopolised both the advertising and search markets, marking a crucial moment in the US Department of Justices (DOJ) antitrust lawsuit against Alphabet, Googles parent company read more Sundar Pichai, Google CEO, is at the helm of the company during one of its most turbulent times. Image Credit: Reuters In a major development that can potentially change the dynamics of how we as users browse the internet, Google has been found guilty of violating US antitrust laws. A federal judge ruled that Google monopolised both the advertising and search markets, marking a crucial moment in the US Department of Justices (DOJ) antitrust lawsuit against Alphabet, Googles parent company. This decision came after an extensive ten-week trial overseen by Judge Amit Metha, who concluded that Google breached Section 2 of the Sherman Act. Advertisement The ruling supports the DOJs claims that Google operated as an illegal monopoly, particularly in the search and online advertising sectors. However, this verdict only addresses Googles liability, with no immediate decisions on fines or other penalties. This case is just one of several legal challenges Google faces in 2024, with another trial set for September to address its advertising technology practices. Googles Response and Plans for Appeal In response to the ruling, Kent Walker, Googles President of Global Affairs, acknowledged the decision while defending Googles position. Walker noted that while the court recognised Google as the highest-quality search engine, it concluded that Googles methods of maintaining its monopoly were unacceptable. We appreciate the Courts finding that Google is the industrys highest quality search engine, which has earned Google the trust of hundreds of millions of daily users, that Google has long been the best search engine, particularly on mobile devices, has continued to innovate in search and that Apple and Mozilla occasionally assess Googles search quality relative to its rivals and find Googles to be superior, he said. The court highlighted Googles consistent superiority in search quality, particularly on mobile devices, and its ongoing innovations in the field. Despite this acknowledgement, Google plans to appeal the decision, emphasising its commitment to creating user-friendly and helpful products as the legal process continues. Advertisement Details of the DOJs Case Against Google The DOJs lawsuit argued that Google maintained its monopoly status by making substantial payments to other companies to ensure its dominance as the default search engine. Notably, Google paid Apple $20 billion in 2022 to keep Google as the default search engine on Apple devices. This substantial payment was revealed during the trial, where several Apple executives were called to testify. Despite attempts by Apple to avoid the subpoenas, high-ranking officials such as Eddy Cue, John Giannandrea, and Adrian Perica provided crucial evidence. The trial also uncovered that Microsoft had attempted to replace Google as the default search engine on Apples Safari browser by offering Apple 90 per cent of its advertising revenue. Microsoft even proposed selling Bing to Apple in 2020, highlighting the competitive dynamics within the search engine market. Advertisement Potential Implications for Googles Financial Arrangements The regular billion-dollar payments from Google to Apple have been highly lucrative for the latter, accounting for a significant portion of Googles ad revenue from searches conducted via Safari on iPhones. However, this financial arrangement may be in jeopardy following the DOJs legal victory. Googles potential break-up, as hinted by Judge Metha, could disrupt these payments, creating financial uncertainties for both companies. Furthermore, in July, reports indicated that Google sought to reduce its reliance on Apple for search traffic and revenue, suggesting a shift in strategy amidst mounting legal pressures. The future of these annual payments remains uncertain, and the outcome of Googles appeal will likely play a critical role in shaping the companys financial and operational landscape moving forward. Googles legal blow casts doubt on the substantial revenue Apple has been generating from Google, estimated to be around $20 billion annually. Following the ruling, Apple shares experienced a nearly 5 per cent drop on Monday read more Apple can now establish new, nonexclusive agreements with various AI providers, including Google, that comply with US regulations. However, it may take several years for Apple to generate significant revenue from AI advancements. Image Credit: Reuters Googles recent defeat in an antitrust suit filed by the US Department of Justice has significantly impacted its partner, Apple Inc. This legal blow casts doubt on the substantial revenue Apple has been generating from Google, estimated to be around $20 billion annually. Following the ruling, Apple shares experienced a nearly 5 per cent drop on Monday. The court determined that Googles payments to device manufacturers for preferential search engine placement were illegal, marking a significant victory for the Justice Department in its first major antitrust case against Big Tech in over two decades. Advertisement Implications for Apples revenue and strategy The ruling poses a threat to a vital revenue stream for Apple, which has helped sustain its sales growth in recent years. However, Apple has been strategically shifting away from its reliance on traditional internet searches. The company is enhancing its Siri digital assistant and integrating AI chatbots into its software, betting on AI technology as the future of digital queries. This move reflects the rapid evolution of the tech industry, which often outpaces regulatory actions. Apple is incorporating OpenAIs ChatGPT capabilities into its software and plans to do the same with Googles Gemini chatbot. Over time, Apple aims to direct users towards AI and Siri instead of conventional web browsers. This shift could enable Apple to establish new, nonexclusive agreements with various AI providers, including Google, that comply with US regulations. However, it may take several years for Apple to generate significant revenue from AI advancements. Googles mixed blessing For Google, the ruling is somewhat advantageous in the short term, as it could save substantial amounts previously paid to Apple for default search engine status. According to Ari Paparo, an advertising entrepreneur and former Google employee, this decision might reduce Googles financial burdens. Judge Amit Mehtas decision did not specify how Google should comply with the ruling, but a hearing is scheduled next month to discuss the timing of a separate trial on the matter. It is unlikely that the court will mandate Apple to entirely drop Google as a search partner. Advertisement However, the terms of their agreement could be altered to level the competitive landscape. One possible scenario is presenting consumers with multiple search engine options when they first activate their devices, similar to a system already in place in the European Union. This approach would allow users to choose between Google, Microsoft Bing, DuckDuckGo, and other alternatives, rather than delving into settings to change their default search engine. In his ruling, Judge Mehta noted that Googles lucrative agreement has discouraged Apple from launching its search engine, despite having the capacity to do so. John Giannandrea, a former Google executive now overseeing AI at Apple, leads a search team focused more on internal search capabilities within Apples software rather than creating a direct competitor to Googles web queries. Advertisement Future prospects and technological shifts Despite these challenges, Apple is poised for significant changes in its user interface in the coming months. The company plans to introduce Apple Intelligence, a new suite of artificial intelligence features designed to transform how users interact with their iPhones and other devices. These enhancements include a Type to Siri feature, allowing users to interact with the virtual assistant via text, and facilitating AI queries across the iPhone, iPad, and Mac operating systems. This technological shift underscores Apples commitment to innovation and adaptability in an ever-evolving tech landscape. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 comes with a ton of upgrades that, at a glance may feel incremental, but you would be wrong to dismiss the device because of that. There are many subtle refinements that makes the Galaxy Z Fold 6 one of the most complete phablet styled foldable device read more Pros: - Massive quality of life refinements over the Z Fold 5 - Proper multitasking chops with great overall performance - Internal display one of the best ever fitted to a smartphones - External display feels more refined and symmetrical - Crease on the inner display is much less visible - AI features seem interesting - Proper software support for the foldable form factor Cons: - Marginal improvement in battery life over Z Fold 5 - Only minor upgrades to the camera - Eye-watering price tag Advertisement Pricing: Starts at Rs 1,64,999 for the base 256GB+12GB variant Rating: 4.75/5 Ever since they launched the Galaxy Z Fold, Samsung has been the king of the hill that is the phablet-styled foldable smartphones. Over the years, there have been many contenders who posed a serious challenge to Samsungs throne. However, they have been running the gauntlet that Samsung threw them they have been playing by the rules that Samsung set. With the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung has managed to preserve the status quo and throw other foldable smartphone makers a new gauntlet. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das Sure, there are other smartphones that have outdone Samsung in certain areas. The OnePlus Open and the Vivo X Fold3 are very strong contenders. They offer some pretty awesome features, and at times, have outdone Samsung in terms of specification, pricing, or software features. However, the Z Fold series has always been a step ahead of its competition, mainly because it offered a much more refined, and balanced package, that came with top-notch performance. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is an incremental upgrade over the Galaxy Z Fold 5 in the same way that Homo sapiens are incrementally evolved over Homo sapiens. Sure they share a lot of the same basic qualities on paper but take one look at the Galaxy Z Fold 6, or just pick it up for even half an hour, and youll see there are tons of changes, both on the surface level, as well as deep inside. Advertisement For starters, you get top-notch specs, two incredible displays, and most importantly, Samsungs suite of AI features as part of Galaxy AI. But does that mean it justifies the eye-watering price that Samsung is asking for the Z Fold 6? Or has Samsung priced itself out of an already premium market? We find out. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Review: Design The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is mostly about refining the design from Samsungs previous foldable models, making it the companys thinnest foldable phone yet. The device now has a sharper, more rectangular design, which looks great. Theres a new matte coating on the metal parts like the frame and hinge, complementing the overall aesthetic. Advertisement The hinge feels robust and sturdy, requiring just the right amount of force to unfold. It can stay open at a wider range of angles and operates more smoothly. Samsung has also reduced the phones weight to 239 grams, just 7 grams more than the Galaxy S24 Ultra. This lightweight design makes it easy to carry in your hand or pocket. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das The new design is a rather pleasant improvement in look and feel. Its also durable, with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and Armor Aluminum, the same materials used in the Galaxy S24. Samsung refined everything from the speakers to the camera array. The buttons are flat and elegant, giving the phone a professional look. Advertisement The Fold 6 is thinner both when folded and unfolded, shaving off nearly 15 grams of weight. Its also the first Galaxy Z Fold officially certified for protection against small particles and solid objects, boasting an IP48 rating. Previous models featured an IPX8 certification for water resistance, but the Fold 6 goes further with enhanced protection. Samsung added more steel to the dual rail hinge, sealing it from the elements. The phones IP48 rating means its resistant to both dust and water. A slightly elevated edge around the inner display acts as an O-ring, sealing the device completely shut when folded, reducing the risk of dust or debris damaging the inner screen. Advertisement While the flat-edge design can be a bit sharp in the corners, digging into your hand, the overall design of the Fold 6 is refined and improved. Available in navy blue, silver, and pink at both offline and online stores, the Fold 6 also comes in black and white, exclusive to Samsungs website. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das The Fold 6 doesnt have the Galaxy S24 Ultras titanium frame and Gorilla Glass Armor but features an aluminium frame thats 10% more scratch-resistant. It retains the Gorilla Glass Victus 2 front and back glass from the Fold 5. Despite this, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 feels premium. My only complaint would be that the slimmer and flat edges, make unfolding the phone more difficult, especially since there is no space to place some leverage. A case can help, but not completely solve this issue. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Review: Displays The Galaxy Z Fold 6s outer OLED screen is now 6.3 inches, up from 6.2 inches last year. While this may seem minor, the new 22.1:9 aspect ratio, compared to the previous 23.1:9, makes the screen wider and less elongated. This change means the keyboard on the Fold 6s outer screen no longer feels cramped, allowing for more comfortable two-handed typing. The main 7.6-inch folding screen also benefits from the wider aspect ratio. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das A notable improvement is the reduced crease at the fold. Although its still more noticeable than on Chinese foldables, which use different folding mechanisms, its less distracting. The main screen, with a 2160 X 1856 resolution and a maximum brightness of 3,000 nits, delivers stunning visuals. The Fold 6 keeps the 120Hz variable refresh rate and AMOLED panel but brings technical upgrades and tweaks to the aspect ratio. Both the cover and foldable displays are wider and shorter, with the cover screen having less rounded bezels, enhancing the perception of width. The 6.3-inch cover screen is a 2376 X 968 AMOLED panel with an adaptive refresh rate from 1Hz to 120Hz. Its practical for quick tasks like web browsing, email, and Instagram scrolling. The outer display is more squarish than before and has far thinner bezels, especially on the edge, compared to the X Fold 5. This makes the outer display look larger than before. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das The inner 7.6-inch screen is a 2160 x 1856 AMOLED panel with a thin, flat bezel. Its exceptionally bright, reaching up to 2,600 nits, and the crease is less noticeable than in previous models. While you can still see and feel the crease, Samsung has made significant improvements. Visually, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 offers a vibrant, contrast-rich display perfect for various tasks. Watching videos on Netflix or Prime, playing games like Asphalt 9, and browsing websites or reading articles are enjoyable experiences. In tablet mode, the Z Fold 6 is comfortable to hold. Flex mode, which lets you fold the screen 90 degrees and set it on a flat surface, is handy for video watching and calls, though typing in this mode isnt ideal. Samsung also keeps delivering a top-notch stylus experience on foldable phones with the Galaxy Z Fold 6, with some really cool features. However, you dont get an S Pen included with the phone. Youll have to buy the specific S Pen Fold Edition if you want to use a stylus. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das Despite concerns about the outer display being slimmer than competitors like the OnePlus Open and Pixel Fold, I find the compact, pocket-friendly design of the Samsung Fold 6 appealing. I didnt have issues with the Fold 5 or the Fold 6. I used the Fold 6s inner display for almost everything except taking photos, videos, and making calls, the three tasks that I would invariably use with the outer display. Having said the outer display was more than adequate for quick texts or emails. Foldables with wider outer displays often lead to people using the outer screen more and neglecting the inner one. With the Fold 6, the balance between the outer and inner displays encourages using the foldable screen more often, making it a versatile and practical device. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Review: Camera The Galaxy Z Fold 6s three-camera array stands out visually but offers a mixed bag of feelings. The cameras are the same as those on the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 4, which is a bit disappointing, especially considering the high price of the Fold 6. This disparity feels even more pronounced given the increased cost of the Fold 6 compared to its predecessors. The Fold 6s cameras include a 50MP wide-angle lens with an f/1.8 aperture, a 12MP ultrawide lens with an f/2.2 aperture and a 123-degree field of view, and a 10MP camera with 3X optical zoom and an f/2.4 aperture. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das These cameras are very capable. I managed to take stunning photos in various conditions during my trip to Paris, but the overall experience left me wanting more for some reason. Colours and sharpness are generally good, and low-light performance is adequate, but macro photography is nonexistent. Portrait mode, on the other hand, produced beautiful images of people and pets. One of the standout features is the colour quality and detail, thanks to Samsungs updated ProVisual Engine, which enhances computational photography capabilities. This engine has improved significantly, offering a more accurate representation of reality, though Samsungs tendency to make skies appear overly blue remains. In well-lit environments, the Z Fold 6 captures vibrant and rich images, though sometimes at the expense of slight detail loss and occasional overexposure. Colours can also be a bit off. In low-light conditions, Samsungs Night Mode does a great job of boosting exposure without adding significant artefacts. The under-display camera (UDC) on the foldable screen is still nearly useless. It can only take basic photos and videos, with the quality youd expect from a 4-megapixel sensor. While its fine for video calls in Flex Mode, it performs adequately only in well-lit environments. The 50MP main camera is a strong performer, delivering superb shots with excellent colours, sharpness, exposure, and detail resolution. Its performance is comparable to the top-tier cameras on the market, like those in the Galaxy S24 series or the iPhone 15 generation. Unfortunately, the 12MP ultra-wide camera is less impressive, with dull colours, overprocessing, and a lack of detail. It will get the job done for ultra-wide shots but dont expect too much from it. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das The cover display features a proper front-facing camera. The 10MP front camera delivers good picture and video quality and includes useful features like auto framing in video mode, which keeps you in the frame even if you move away from the centre. Click here for some camera samples from the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Review: Performance, software experience and UI The Galaxy Z Fold 6 comes equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip (the For Galaxy variant with slightly higher clock speeds) and 12GB of RAM as standard, with storage options of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. This setup ensures the phone is fast, smooth, and capable of handling anything you throw at it. I wont dwell too much on its performance because its simply top-notch. The Z Fold 6 features the best-in-class SoC, an impressive vapor chamber system, and delivers all the performance youd expect. In benchmarks, it consistently ranks near the top or outright beats other foldables. For those interested, we have benchmark results available. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 can run a bit warm, especially during intensive tasks, but Samsungs new and larger vapour chamber cooling system (1.6 times bigger than the Fold 5s) handles it well. During our tests, the cooling system proved more than adequate, keeping the phone running smoothly even during long gaming sessions with high-end games like Call of Duty at high refresh rates. In most scenarios, the Fold 6 stays cool. Long gaming sessions and extended video recording did warm it up, but it never got uncomfortably hot. Galaxy AI features process quickly, at least those that can be handled on-device. Most AI features, however, require an internet connection, so your connection speed will affect how fast things get done. The Fold 6 runs on One UI 6.1.1 out of the box, bringing features like live effect wallpapers from any image, the ability to clip objects or people from motion photos and convert them to GIFs, and an improved Auto Blocker that prevents sideloading of apps by default. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das Sound quality has also been improved with features like dialogue and voice boosting in videos and a loudness normalisation setting to prevent sudden changes in volume. The Fold 6 will receive Android, One UI, and security updates for seven years, which is longer than any other foldable phone except the Google Pixel Fold. This extended support is one of the few justifications for Samsungs price increase. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Review: AI features The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is brimming with AI features, including Google Gemini. Here are some of the highlights. On the productivity front, Note Assist is a real game-changer. It can transcribe and summarize meeting notes for you. It usually produces a clear, easy-to-understand summary. In my testing, it did take a bit of time to transcribe a rather long meeting, but the transcription and notes that it came up with, where very helpful. It also works well with other apps like Google Meet. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das Then there are a ton of Google Gemini features, which are always ready with a quick swipe from the corner. It can do everything from answering questions to brainstorming vacation ideas. It even helps with homework; I snapped a photo of a rather complex maths problem, one that an Economics student in the second year of his masters would be expected to solve, and Gemini provided step-by-step instructions with such ease and clarity that even I could understand. The highlight of the Galaxy AIs features though would be its Interpreter app. It allows users to use a real-time translation during conversations. Both you and the person youre talking to can see whats being said on the main and cover displays. I tested this with a colleague with whom I was speaking in Bengali. He was speaking to me in a mix of Hindi and English. Despite a slight delay, our conversation flowed smoothly with both audio and text. This feature could revolutionize travel, especially since the Interpreter app works offline. Samsung has also added some fun AI features to the foldable format. One example is Sketch to Image in the Samsung Notes app. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das You can sketch anything, and the AI will transform it into a watercolour, illustration, sketch, pop art, or 3D cartoon. It takes a few seconds, but the results are quite impressive. You can even sketch objects into photos. For example, I drew a basic white car in front of the parking lot of a resort and got a white Lambo generated. What took me by surprise was that the result looked very realistic. Additionally, Galaxy AI can transform photos with Portrait Studio, allowing you to turn yourself into anything from a comic book character to a 3D cartoon. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Review: Battery Samsung has decided not to increase the battery capacity on the Fold for the fourth consecutive year. The Fold 6 features a 4,400 mAh battery, the same as the Fold 3, Fold 4, and Fold 5, and only marginally larger than the original Folds 4,380 mAh. Therefore, any battery life improvements are attributed to the new Snapdragon chip and software optimization rather than a larger battery. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das The Fold 6 also charges slower compared to the Fold 5. It reaches about 40 per cent in 30 minutes and takes roughly 100 minutes for a full charge. In contrast, the Fold 5 could charge up to 50 per cent in 30 minutes and achieve a full charge in about 80 minutes. Its important to note that our testing primarily used the larger inner display at 70 per cent peak brightness. If you mainly use the outer display, you will experience significantly better battery life. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Review: Verdict The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is like carrying two gadgets in one. You get a beefy 6.3-inch smartphone that you can unfold into a slim and stunning tablet. And despite this versatility, it doesnt feel like youre hauling around two devices, thanks to its manageable size and weight. This is undoubtedly one of the top foldable phones available. While there are less expensive options, few can match the Z Fold 6 in terms of design, performance, and AI capabilities. If youre looking for a true 2-in-1 device, this might be the best option out there. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das Unlike some companies that are still considering bringing AI to their foldable sometime in the future, Samsung is already delivering a rather unique experience, with Galaxy AI on the Z Fold 6, which is not only impressive but also genuinely useful. And even if you disregard its foldable nature, this device stands out as a proper top-notch device, showcasing the best the company has to offer. It handles the latest games effortlessly, and the nearly tablet-sized screen makes gaming and other activities a joy. However, the price of the Fold 6 is a significant consideration. The high-end model can cost around Rs 2 Lakhs, while the base model starts at approximately Rs 1.65 Lakhs. With this price increase, it seems like Samsung is positioning the Z Fold as something that is beyond a premium offering, whereas they should be aiming to make the foldable form factor more accessible. Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate in the 2024 US presidential election, according to reports read more Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has been picked by Kamala Harris as her running mate, as per reports (Photo: AP) Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the running mate of Kamala Harris, has connections to both India and China. While he proclaimed August 15 as India Day in Minnesota, he has previously worked, lived, and travelled in China extensively for more than a decade. Walz was one of the two finalist candidates to be Harris running mate. The other was Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Walz became the Governor of Minnesota in 2019 and is currently serving his second term. Before that, he served in the House of Representatives for 15 years. Of those in contention to be Harris running mate, Walz was the only one to have both executive and legislative experience. Advertisement Walz declared August 15 as India Day Last year, as Indians the world over marked the 77th Independence Day, Walz declared August 15 as India Day in Minnesota. Hailing India as the worlds largest democracy, Walz said at the time that India had extraordinary diversity and rich cultural heritage. The contributions and heritage of Indian-Americans have played a vital role in helping and continuing to create a better nation and state, said Walz, according to The Statesman. The newspaper further reported that Minnesota has around 55,000 people who are either Indians or are of Indian-origin. They primarily work as teachers, business owners, healthcare providers, and in the technology sector. While Walz proclaimed August 15 as the India Day, the newspaper reported that The India Association of Minnesota hosted IndiaFest on the Minnesota State Capitol premises to celebrate the culture, heritage, traditions of India through. They also held a parade and hoisted the flag. Walz has worked and travelled extensively in China Walz is also deeply connected to China. At a time when China is the primary strategic adversary with whom the United States is increasingly getting involved in a trade conflict, how this plays out in terms of optics is to be seen. After graduating from college, Walz went to China in 1989 to teach English, according to CNN. Advertisement After Walz got married to his wife Gwen in 1994, the two went to China on their honeymoon. Gwen is also a teacher. In 1994, Walz and Gwen set up a company called Educational Travel Adventures, Inc. Through the company, the two organised annual student trips to China. As per the official biography of Minnesota First Lady Gwen, she and her husband Walz organised these annual trips till 2003. After serving in the US Army National Guard for more than two decades, Walz became a teacher and continued teaching till he first ran for public office. AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon, the President of Bangladesh Supreme Court Bar Association, has called upon judges who acted politically to resign read more Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina's official visa has reportedly been cancelled by the US. File Photo/Reuters The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) of Bangladesh has asked India to arrest Sheikh Hasina and send her back to her home country. In an apparent reference to deaths of protestors, SCBA President AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon said Hasina killed many people in Bangladesh. Khokon is also the Joint General Secretary of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the principal Opposition party of Bangladesh. The party along with the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami are the primary winners from Hasinas fall. Advertisement The 15-year rule of Hasina came to an unceremonious end on Monday when Hasina resigned and fled Bangladesh for her life. She fled after weeks of mass movement against her reign climaxed on Sunday in which nearly 100 people were killed. As the Bangladesh Army sided with the protestors, Hasina decided to flee for her safety. She is currently in India until she can find a refuge in another country where she may live out her remaining days in exile. We want to maintain a good relationship with the people of India. Please, arrest Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana, who fled the country, and send them back to Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina has killed many people in Bangladesh, said Khokon, as per The Daily Star. Rehna is Hasinas sister, who fled with her to India. We dont want emergency Khokon has said that the movement was not waged to live under an emergency. Khokon said there will be protests if emergency is imposed. There is talk of issuing a state of emergency. We dont want a government like that of Moeen U Ahmed and Fakhruddin Ahmed. No one, including the students, wants the state of emergency. They will not accept it and will protest if any initiative is taken to issue it, said Khokon, as per The Daily Star. Advertisement The newspaper further reported Khokon as calling upon the judges who acted politically to resign. He accused them of being biased against BNP. Many judges have ordered the remand of BNP men and sentenced them in false cases, breaking their oaths and being overly enthusiastic. HC judges have acquitted Awami League leader Mofazzal Hossain in a case filed for amassing illegal wealth, while BNP leaders Iqbal Hassan Mahmud Tuku and Aman Ullah Aman were imprisoned in similar cases. Judges who have judged politically, breaking their oaths, are unfit to remain as judges. They have no right to stay in their positions. I request them to resign within a week. We will disclose their names if they dont step down, said Khokon, as per the newspaper. The former establishment in Bangladesh, led by Sheikh Hasina has requested that their functionaries be allowed to enter India. read more Members and workers of Awami League are worried of possible attacks on their lives by Bangladesh protesters after Sheikh Hasina fled Dhaka. Source: AFP. Sheikha Hasinas surprise decision of resigning from the prime ministerial post, quickly fleeing Bangladesh and taking shelter in India for now has not just left leaders and workers of her Awami League party headless but also in fear and anxiety. Hasinas party colleagues have reportedly reached out to the authorities in India urging to cross into the Indian side through land routes. A report by Times of India quoted sources as saying as soon as Hasina fled Dhaka, the former establishment in Bangladesh has requested that their functionaries be allowed to enter India. Advertisement Interestingly, some of the Awami League functionaries may not be carrying their passport or have a valid visa for India as they are on the run, the report mentioned sources as saying. Why Awami League members & workers want entry in India? Since Hasina has resigned and fled from her country, leaders of her political party are making all ends meet to flee at the earliest to escape a possible witch hunt by the protesting anti-Hasina forces in Bangladesh. Awami League members are worried and threatened by possible attacks on their lives. Also, their houses and other property are also under attack. It is to recall that India has a history of offering asylum to the leaders of Awami League from the days of unrest during the build up to the 1971 Bangladeshs war of liberation from Pakistan under the leadership of Hasinas father and first PM of the country Sheikh Majibur Rahman. Awami League members want to enter India through land routes On Monday after the political uncertainty following Hasinas resignation, movement on the India-Bangladesh border was restricted. The Border Security Force (BSF) also issued a high alert along the India-Bangladesh border. Movement of goods through the Petrapole land port on the India-Bangladesh border was suspended, leaving over 250 trucks stranded on the Bangladesh side. Also, regular flight services to and from Dhaka have also been grounded following the shut down of airports. The Indian Railways have extended the suspension of Maitree Express and two other passenger trains linking India and Bangladesh. In such a situation, only land borders with West Bengal and Tripura could be the main escape routes for Awami League workers who are trying to flee Bangladesh. Advertisement With inputs from agencies August 6, 2024, 19:14:33 (IST) Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Bangladesh crisis may lead to temporary increase in Indian garment orders Indian exporters on Tuesday said that the political situation in Bangladesh may lead to short-term shifting of garment orders to India. However, they added that India has no intention or inclination to exploit this unfortunate situation in its friendly neighbouring country. On Monday, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country amid massive public anger over her governments controversial quota system reserving 30 per cent of jobs for families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. More than 400 people have been killed in the protests. Mithileshwar Thakur, Secretary General of the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) said that the current situation in Bangladesh is a matter of great concern for all the exporters. We wish that the situation stabilizes quickly and normal business resumes. We are a friendly neighbour country and completely empathize with the unfortunate incidents of violent protests that are unfolding in Bangladesh, he said. Thakur added that India has no intention or inclination to exploit this unfortunate situation in its friendly neighbouring country. The Indian garment industry is making serious efforts to grow RMG exports on its own, based on its merit. However, it is quite likely that in short-term garment orders may shift to India and the Indian apparel industry may be asked to fill the gap caused by this severe disruption, he said. Ludhiana-based exporter S C Ralhan said that the political crisis in the neighbouring country will impact timely payments. He said that normalisation of the situation would help in the smooth movement of goods. Ralhan said that Indian firms having units in Bangladesh would face the impact. There would be stress on timely payments, Ralhan said. Bangladesh is a key player in garments in the world and it imports cotton from India. (PTI) Yunus, 84, a respected economist, is credited with lifting millions out of poverty with his pioneering microfinance bank but earned the enmity of Hasina, who accused him of sucking blood from the poor read more Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus has agreed to be the chief advisor of the interim government in Bangladesh hours after student protesters proposed his name for the post. According to a report by The Daily Star, a source quoted Yunus as saying, When I was contacted on behalf of the students, I didnt agree at first. I told them I have a lot of work to finish. But the students repeatedly requested me. Earlier today, student protesters from the Students Against Discrimination (SAD) pushed Yunus case for the post, saying, We have decided that the interim government would be formed in which internationally renowned Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, who has wide acceptability, would be the chief adviser. Advertisement Considered for students Responding to students requests, Yunus said, I also considered that these students had protested so much, they had to pay so much for it. If the students can sacrifice so much, if the people of the country can sacrifice so much, then I also have some responsibility. Then I told the students that I can take the responsibility, he added. Meanwhile, Yunus is currently abroad for medical treatment and is expected to return to Bangladesh as soon as possible. He also went to Paris at the invitation of the Olympic Committee. Who is Muhammad Yunus? Yunus, 84, a respected economist, is credited with lifting millions out of poverty with his pioneering microfinance bank but earned the enmity of Hasina, who accused him of sucking blood from the poor. Yunus has been charged by the Hasina government in over 190 cases. In January, he was convicted for violating Bangladeshs labour laws and is currently out on bail. He is the founder of the pioneering microfinance system that lifted millions of poor out of poverty in Bangladesh. With inputs from agencies After the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been made the head of the interim government of Bangladesh read more Muhammad Yunus, the head of Bangladeshs interim government, has said there would be no change in the country without an election. The interim government has been formed in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina resigned as the premier on Monday and fled the country for her life after weeks of protest against her 15-year rule. The weeks of protests climaxed on Sunday when nearly 100 people were killed. Following Hasinas flight, Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced she had resigned and that an interim government would be formed and elections would be held in the due course of time. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been roped in to run the interim government. Advertisement Lasting peace will only come from election Accepting the role as the head of the interim government, Yunus has said it is only the beginning. Yunus further said that lasting peace will only come with election. I am honoured by the trust of the protesters who wish for me to lead the interim government. If action is needed in Bangladesh, for my country and for the courage of my people, then I will take it. The interim government is only the beginning. Lasting peace will only come with free elections. Without elections, there will be no change, said Yunus to AFP. Yunus further said that the young people of the country who took to the streets against Hasina had made Bangladesh proud. Yunus said, Youth have voiced their need for change in our country. The prime minister heard them by leaving the country. This was a very important first step taken yesterday. The courage of this youth is boundless. They have made Bangladesh proud and shown the world our nations determination against injustice. Previously, Yunus had said to the French daily Le Figaro that he wanted to stay out of politics but could lead the government if circumstances require it. The police had largely remained loyal to the erstwhile govt and said they had faced revenge attacks by protesters after more than a month of violence in which at least 413 people were killed, including several policemen read more Activists clash with the police during a march to remember victims of recent countrywide clashes, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Tuesday, July 30, 2024. AP As if things werent tumultuous enough in Bangladesh with Sheikh Hasinas sudden exit, the countrys key police association has now launched a strike amid fears about their safety. Until the security of every member of the police is secured, we are declaring a strike, the Bangladesh Police Service Association (BPSA) said in a statement. We beg an apology for what the police force has done to the innocent students, it added. It argued its officers had been forced to open fire, and that they had been cast as the villain. Advertisement The group said that more than 450 police stations were attacked on Monday, the day Hasina fled Dhaka. According to BBC Bangla, there were no traffic police present in the capital city of Dhaka on Tuesday with many student protesters guiding the movement of vehicles. Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced Monday afternoon on state television that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had resigned and the military would form an interim government. Hasina, 76, had been in power since 2009 but was accused of rigging elections in January and then watched millions of people take to the streets over the past month demanding she quit. Hundreds of people died as security forces sought to quell the unrest, but the protests grew and Hasina finally fled Bangladesh aboard a helicopter on Monday as the military turned against her. But the police had largely remained loyal and said they had faced revenge attacks by protesters after more than a month of violence in which at least 413 people were killed, including several policemen. With inputs from AFP President Mohammed Shahabuddin met with Anti-Discrimination Students Movement representatives to discuss the formation of an interim government following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas resignation. The political unrest, which has led to significant violence and over 400 deaths, started with protests demanding reforms to the quota system in public service jobs read more Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin held discussions with representatives of the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement at Bangabhaban. The student leaders arrived at the presidential residence in a microbus around 6:00 PM, with the primary focus reportedly on the formation of an interim government. The chiefs of the navy and air force joined the meeting at 7:30 PM. The country is in a state of uncertainty following the resignation and departure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina due to a massive uprising against her administration. Advertisement The unrest, which began with student protests demanding reforms to the public service quota system, has resulted in significant violence, with at least 142 people reported dead since the prime ministers resignation. The protests, originating from a demand for changes to the quota system, escalated dramatically. Despite the governments attempt to address these demands through a reform announcement on July 23, nearly 200 people had already lost their lives in the ensuing clashes by then. The call for Hasinas resignation intensified on August 3, leading to the swift collapse of her government. Sheikh Hasina, who had been in power since 2009, was serving her fourth consecutive term and fifth overall. Bangladeshs monthly apparel export is $3.5-3.8 billion and has a high double-digit share in the European Union and the UK read more Bangladesh, which has been witnessing a political crisis, is known for its textile sector. The country earns a large share of its income from exports of clothes and the ongoing unrest is expected to hit them hard. With the world keeping a close eye on rapid developments in Bangladesh, international buyers, especially textile importers, are shifting their focus to alternative markets including India. Bangladesh is a key market for Indian textiles and serves both as a manufacturing hub and a significant export destination. Advertisement The monthly apparel export of Bangladesh is $3.5-3.8 billion and has a high double-digit share in the European Union and the United Kingdom and a 10 per cent market share in the United States. India, meanwhile, is exporting in the range of $1.3-1.5 billion per month. A report by Business Standard quoted industry experts as saying that if 10 to 11 per cent of Bangladeshs export is diverted to Indian hubs like Triuppur, Indias gain will be an additional business of $300-400 million per month. We expect orders may start coming to Tiruppur, and this financial year, they are expected to be at least 10 per cent more than last years, the report quoted KM Subramanian, president of the Tiruppur Exporters Association, as saying. This is unfortunate and if the current disruption lasts long, it will affect buyer sentiment. Initially, buyers will likely shift some orders to India and other countries. We have the capacity to handle an additional $300-400 million in orders immediately, Prabhu Damodaran, secretary to the Indian Texpreneurs Federation, an industry body, was quoted as saying by Business Standard. The protests and upheaval in Bangladesh have come at a time when the country was expected to surpass $50 billion in annual exports in 2024, compared to around $47 billion in 2023. Textile manufacturing units shifting base to India The report further said that manufacturing units owned by Indians in Bangladesh are also likely to shift their base to India. Advertisement There are nearly 25 per cent of the units in Bangladesh that are owned by India. These include companies like Shahi Exports, House of Pearl Fashions, Jay Jay Mills, TCNS, Gokaldas Images, and Ambattur Clothing, trade-policy analyst S Chandrasekaran said. The movement of consignments is stuck, and there is a breakdown in the supply chain for the upcoming Christmas season. India has an advantage here because orders will be diverted, Chandrasekaran said. The sudden drop in global volumes may be compensated by a rise in Indian exports," he further said. Bangladesh has been witnessing its worst political crisis since independence in 1971, with Sheikh Hasina resigning from the post of Prime Minister amid massive anti-government protests. Advertisement Bangladesh Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman, on August 5, announced that an interim government would be taking over the responsibilities. With inputs from agencies Dr Muhammad Yunus is currently in Paris and will soon be returning to Bangladesh to continue to work for the people the way he did earlier read more Dr Muhammad Yunus has blamed former prime minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, for destroying the legacy of her father Bangabandhu Mujibur Rehman. Source: AP. The interim government in Bangladesh should have Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus as the chief advisor this is a strong demand made on Tuesday by the key organisers of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement who even warned that any government other than the one we recommended would not be accepted. Nahid Islam, a key coordinator of the movement, also emphasised that no military government, or one backed by the military, or a government of fascists, will be accepted. Advertisement Prof Yunus has said to have given consent considering the present situation in Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina destroyed legacy of her father In an interview with The Print, Yunus blamed former prime minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, for destroying the legacy of her father Bangabandhu Mujibur Rehman. Hasina resigned from the post of Bangladesh Prime Minister on Monday and fled Dhaka. She landed at Hindon airport near Delhi in the evening and is expected to travel to the UK soon. Bangladesh is liberated We were an occupied country as long as she (Hasina) was there. She was behaving like an occupation force, a dictator, a general, controlling everything. Today all the people of Bangladesh feel liberated We are a free country now, Yunus said. They (people of Bangladesh) are feeling the sense of liberation and joy that we can start all over again We wanted to do it in the first round when we became independent in 1971. And we missed it because of all the problems we have right now, he further said. Yunus commitment to students in Bangladesh We now want to make a fresh start and create a beautiful country for ourselves. Thats the commitment we make and students and young people will be leading our future, Yunus said. Highlighting the plight of protesting students, some of whom were killed in clashes with police, Yunus slammed the government-led by Hasina and said: People are being killed by our own soldiers, our own police. They dont feel good about it at all, but they are being ordered to do something and kill people what kind of government you have, which decides to kill its own people instead of protecting peoples lives. Advertisement Why people in Bangladesh are angry? Yunus also pointed out as to why people in Bangladesh were angry and frustrated by Sheikh Hasina-led Bangladesh government. He said: A very simple thing, you took away their (peoples) right to vote. All the anger that they accumulated could not be expressed in any political way. So that came out as a simple demand for quota changes. It immediately caught up because the government behaved the same way, attacking them rather than listening to them because they are not in a listening mood at all. Only one person in the country decides everything. Her word is the law, Yunus said. Advertisement Hasina to be blamed for Mujibur Rehmans statue damage Yunus said the damage to a statue of Majibur Rehman, former prime minister of Bangladesh, was an expression of the damage she (Hasina) has done. It says what they feel about Hasina, what she did to herself and her father its not the fault of the young people who are doing this, he said. Muhammad Yunus has wide acceptability We have decided that the interim government would be formed in which internationally renowned Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, who has wide acceptability, would be the chief adviser, Nahid announced. He further urged the president to take steps as soon as possible to form an interim government headed by Dr Yunus and made a demand that the process should start rolling by Tuesday morning. Advertisement And we will also announce the names of the remaining members of the interim government by morning, Nahid further said. Students will remain on streets till Nahid went on to say that till the interim government is formed, the students will have to remain on the streets to safeguard their uprising. We have given our blood, been martyred, and we have to fulfill our pledge to build a new Bangladesh, he said. Who is Muhammad Yunus? Yunus has been charged by the Hasina government in over 190 cases. In January, he was convicted for violating Bangladeshs labour laws and is currently out on bail. He is the founder of the pioneering microfinance system that lifted millions of poor out of poverty in Bangladesh. Advertisement Yunus is now in Paris and will soon be returning to Bangladesh to continue to work for the people the way he did earlier. With inputs from agencies Bangladesh witnessed tremendous economic progress under Sheikh Hasinas 15-year-rule. It surpassed India in GDP per capita and also on human development index. Yet, she lost the support of the youth due to some of her policies. read more Sheikh Hasina has resigned as the Bangladesh prime minister after 15 years in power. She fled the country after anti-government protests in which hundreds of people have been killed. File photo/Reuters Bangladeshs deposed leader Sheikh Hasinas 15 years of rule brought contrasting developments in the country. While Hasinas policies resulted in economic growth and improvement in human development indicators, her nature to rule by an iron fist also meant that civil and political liberties were severely curtailed in the country. In recent weeks, the public anger over the civil and political suppression over the 15 years materialised as the largest mass movements in years. The movement peaked on Sunday when nearly 100 people were killed. The next day, Hasina resigned and as the premier and fled Bangladesh for her life. She is currently in India where she seeks arrangement to move to a third country to live out her remaining days in exile. Advertisement While Hasina had often been hailed as the worlds longest-serving woman head of the government, it came on the back of controversial tactics. For example, while Hasina won a record fourth straight term as premier earlier this year, she effectively won it unopposed as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the principal Opposition party, had boycotted the election. Khaleda Zia, the BNP chief and a former prime minister, had mostly been under arrest since 2018. It was only after Hasinas flight that President Mohammed Shahabuddin order her release. Bangladeshs economic progress under Hasina Despite the criticism over declining civil and political freedoms during her rule, Hasinas governance led to vast improvement in economic and social indicators. Bangladeshs cloth exports surged during her tenure and considerable health and social benefits were also seen. During Hasinas 15-year term, Bangladesh witnessed electrification of villages, highway-building, and construction of railways and ports. Her rule also witnessed a visible improvement in girls education and womens participation in the workforce. In 2023, Bangladeshs GDP per capital surpassed that of India, according to The Hindu. The newspaper reported that the human development index (HDI), which measures a countrys health, knowledge, and standard of living, surpassed India in 2020. The infant mortality rate also drastically fell from 151.4 in 1973 to 24.1 in 2022, according to the paper. This is below Indias rate. Advertisement The fall of civil & political freedom is another thing Even though Bangladesh witnessed socioeconomic progress under Hasinas rule, she had long been criticised for ruling with an iron fist. Hasina faced criticism over suppressing Opposition, jailing critics, and conducting unfair elections. The critics also labelled her as an Indian stooge and thats why opposing her was also seen as standing up for Bangladeshi nationalism by her critics. The years of angst over her heavy-handed treatment of critics and opponents was utilised by radical and Islamist forces and the result was last weeks protests in which every section opposed to her came together: the students, the artists, the radical BNP, the extremist Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami. Advertisement Even as Hasina faced the biggest mass movement against her, she failed to see the writing on the wall. Instead of reaching out to the demonstrators, she further enraged them with her statements and unleashed the police and military on them the same military that eventually turned against her. More than 300 were killed, thousands were injured, and several thousands were detained. Then, as the second wave of demonstrations unleashed violence hitherto unseen in years, Hasina was left with two choices. Face the mob or flee. As the Army had already sided with the mobs, she resigned and fled for her life. Even before her exile was confirmed, mobs broke into her official residence and plundered it. The longest-serving woman head of the government had unceremoniously been deposed. Ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been seeking an asylum in the UK. She fled Dhaka with her sister Sheikh Rehana on Monday following month-long massive and deadly anti-government protests across the country read more Sheikh Hasina, who resigned from the post of Bangladesh Prime Minister and fled Dhaka on Monday, was expected to fly out to the UK after a brief stopover in India, but her stay in New Delhi is likely to be longer as her visa approval from the British authorities is pending. Hasina, 76, has been seeking asylum in the UK. She left Bangladesh following month-long massive and deadly anti-government protests across the country. Advertisement Detailing about Immigration Rules, the UK Home Office told CNBC-TV18 that it does not allow entry for those seeking asylum or temporary refuge. The UK has a proud record of providing protection to those in need. However, there is no provision within our Immigration Rules for someone to travel to the UK to seek asylum or temporary refuge, it said. Those who need international protection should claim asylum in the first safe country they reach that is the fastest route to safety, the Home Office further said. At the all-party convened by the Central government in New Delhi on Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also hinted that Hasinas stay in India may extend. The EAM said, Right now we are only ensuring Sheikh Hasina settles down, let her recover and be comfortable to discuss her plans." Hasina left Dhaka with her sister Sheikh Rehana around 2:30 pm on Monday. Rehana holds a UK citizenship. By early evening, the Bangladesh Air Forces C130J aircraft carrying them landed at the Indian Air Force (IAF) base at Hindon in Uttar Pradeshs Ghaziabad, close to Delhi. Also, Rehanas daughter Tulip Siddiq is a member of the British Parliament for the Labor Party. The C-130J flight on Tuesday morning left for Bangladesh and Hasina was not aboard the transport aircraft. ANI quoted sources as saying that it was carrying seven military personnel but not the former prime minister. This is, however, not the first time Hasina is taking refugees in India. In 1975, when her father and founder of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahaman, was assassinated in Dhaka, she and her sister were secretly flown in from Berlin. They had then lived at a safe house of the intelligence agencies at Pandhara Road in New Delhi for six long years as guests of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhis government. Advertisement With inputs from agencies Hindus are facing the brunt of mob violence after former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled Dhaka on August 5. As attacks against minorities intensify, the Indian government has made it a priority to safeguard Hindus in the country read more With Sheikh Hasinas exit came atrocities against minorities in Bangladesh, specifically Hindus. As many as nine houses belonging to Hindus were burned down on Tuesday as mobs continued vandalising infrastructure across the country. Hindus are facing the brunt of mob violence after former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled Dhaka on August 5. As attacks against minorities intensify, the Indian government has made it a priority to safeguard Hindus in the country. Advertisement Meanwhile, the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Tuesday urged the government to take every possible step to ensure the safety of Hindus, Sikhs and other minorities in Bangladesh, claiming that fundamentalists are targeting them in several districts of the neighbouring country. Homes set ablaze The homes of Bengali Hindus were attacked in the city of Meherpur on Tuesday. This included one of Awami Leagues leaders houses. The houses were fully gutted by angry mobs after they vandalised the structures with sticks and bombs. Hindu councillor shot dead A Hindu councillor, Haradhan Roy Hara, based in Rangpur City was killed during the violent protests in the country that killed 100 others. Hindu temples attacked The famous ISKON temple in Dhaka was damaged on Tuesday as anti-government protesters tore apart idols and burnt down the temple complex. The #ISKCON temple was attacked, idols of deities vandalized & burnt in #Dhaka, #Bangladesh by #Islamists extremists. This is the same ISKCON temple which fed more than 2 lakh people daily for 6 months when #Bangladesh was newly formed#savebangladeshihindustemple @amnestysasia pic.twitter.com/0kg1P8IxyA CFATM (@CFATM2) August 6, 2024 Yesterday, several Kali temples were similarly vandalised by mobs. MoS expresses concern Union Minister of State for Railways and Food processing Ravneet Singh Bittu expressed serious concern on Tuesday over attacks on Sikh shrines and Hindu temples located in Bangladesh and urged External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to take up the issue with the Army authorities or the interim government of Bangladesh. In a written communication to Jaishankar, Bittu said, Since the population of Sikhs in Bangladesh is very small and certain anti-India elements were indulging in rampage of religious places, the Sikh community is worried about the safety of Sikh shrines in Bangladesh. I, therefore, urge you to take up the issue with the Army authorities/Interim Govt of Bangladesh to protect the historical Sikh shrines viz. Gurdwara Nanak Shahi and Gurdwara Sangat Tola situated in Dhaka along with the Hindu temples, Bittu said. Former President of Bangladesh Sheikh Mujibur Rehmans statue was torn apart as soon as Hasina left the country in a chopper with her younger sister Sheikh Rehana read more Protesters climb a public monument as they celebrate the news of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. AP Turmoil in Bangladesh does not seem to cease even with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas exit from the country on Monday. Several miscreants have now stormed into a jail, setting over 500 inmates free. A mob bearing sticks and other local weaponry rushed into the Sherpur District Jail during the curfew period on Monday, breaking the main doors and setting the facility on fire. Apart from vadalising the jail complex and freeing over 500 inmates, weapons and other valuables from the complex were also looted. Advertisement After Hasina fled the country, Bangladesh will now be ruled under a caretaker government helmed by the military. Meanwhile, Bangladesh student protesters said Tuesday they would push for Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to lead an interim government, a day after the prime minister was ousted and the military took charge. We have decided that the interim government would be formed in which internationally renowned Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, who has wide acceptability, would be the chief adviser, Nahid Islam, the main leader of Students Against Discrimination (SAD), said in a video message. Hasinas official residence looted Thousands of Bangladeshi protesters stormed the palace of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka on Monday. Bangladeshs Channel 24 broadcast images of crowds running into the premiers official residence in the capital, waving to the camera as they celebrated. From Dior bags to Dhakai sarees, people took valuables on their way out from the Ganabhaban Palace. Bangladeshs Channel 24 broadcast images of crowds running into the premiers official residence in the capital, waving to the camera as they celebrated. Mujibur Rehmans statue vandalised Former President of Bangladesh Sheikh Mujibur Rehmans statue was torn apart as soon as Hasina left the country in a chopper with her younger sister Sheikh Rehana. Mujibur Rehman is the founding father of Bangladesh who led the revolution in 1971. Advertisement Video shows the moment protesters in Bangladeshs Dhaka climbed atop a large statue of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's father, and hammered the statue's head with an axe. pic.twitter.com/1ocSkKguR0 Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) August 5, 2024 Some protesters set a museum dedicated to Rehmans life on fire, flames licking at portraits in destruction barely unthinkable just hours before, when Hasina had the loyalty of the security forces under her autocratic grip. Advertisement Parliament stormed Offices of Hasinas Awami League across the country were torched and looted, eyewitnesses told AFP. Hundreds of people stormed the parliament building, with broadcasters showing protesters cheering wildly, jumping on tables, and setting off what appeared to be smoke bombs. With inputs from agencies What started as protests against a reservation bill ended up in widespread discontent against former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, ultimately leading to her downfall. With her younger sister Sheikh Rehana by her side, Hasina left Dhaka on August 5 in a chopper read more Sheikh Hasinas dramatic exit from the country might be imminent but she certainly did not want to take such a drastic step and wanted to remain in power till the very last moment. What started as protests against a reservation bill ended up in widespread discontent against former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, ultimately leading to her downfall. With her younger sister Sheikh Rehana by her side, Hasina left Dhaka on August 5 in a chopper. Advertisement Hasina had sought to quell nationwide protests against her government since early July but she fled the country after brutal unrest on Sunday in which nearly 100 people were killed. What transpired moments before the Awami League chief fled the country and what forced her to take the step? Heres a look: Officials had to speak to Rehana to convince Hasina? According to a report by Bangladeshi news portal Prothom Alo, top officials, including the Inspector General of Police (IGP), had tried to explain the ground reality to the ex-PM and broke it to her that the situation was such that even police would not be able to resist such a stern stance. However, a relentless Hasina refused to back down, come what may. Officials were then forced to speak to her sister Rehana separately, in the hope of changing Hasinas mind about the situation and asked the former to convince her elder sister about giving up the post of prime minister. Rehanas convincing did not work either. Finally, Hasinas son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, who lives out of Bangladesh, spoke to his mother over the phone following which she agreed to step down. Why didnt Hasina address the nation? After much persuasion, when Hasina decided to resign from the post, officials asked her to leave as soon as possible after intelligence reports showed that protesters had already started their march towards the prime ministers official residence, Ganabhaban. Advertisement Hasina wanted to address the nation before she left but was advised against it as the protesters were advancing rapidly towards her residence. Officials said that there might be no time to record a speech and asked her to flee Dhaka in 45 minutes. India received Hasinas request on short notice Hasinas military chopper entered the Indian airspace shortly after 2:30 pm on Monday. She first landed in Agartala following which she came to New Delhi. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that Hasina apparently made the decision to resign and at very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. Advertisement Speaking on the situation in Bangladesh, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar says, Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of security establishments, PM Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to pic.twitter.com/fT9hV94IIo ANI (@ANI) August 6, 2024 Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of security establishments, PM Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," Jaishankar said as he addressed the Rajya Sabha. With inputs from agencies As Muhammad Yunus calls this moment Bangladeshs second liberation, he faces the urgent challenge of curbing escalating violence against Hindus and guiding the nation towards peace read more (File) Bangladeshi Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has a big role to guide is country out of the crisis and ensure peace and stability. AP Bangladeshi Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been named the chief adviser to the interim government in Bangladesh as announced by the coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement on Tuesday. Yunus, celebrated globally for his pioneering work in microfinance, faces a daunting task: guiding a nation fraught with political unrest and religious tension. Yunus has criticised the political climate under Sheikh Hasinas rule comparing it to an authoritarian regime where citizens felt oppressed. In his view, the ousting of Hasinas government marks a new dawn for Bangladesh, bringing a sense of liberation. However, this newfound freedom has been marred by violence, particularly against minority Hindus, revealing deep-seated societal fissures that require immediate attention. Advertisement While Yunus has spoken of liberation in an interview with The Print, he must recognise that true freedom cannot exist amid lawlessness. His leadership should focus on halting violence against Hindus, restoring their dignity and ensuring their security and equal rights. This is critical, as the recent political upheaval has emboldened extremist factions, exacerbating the plight of Hindus who have long faced persecution in Bangladesh. This advisory role becomes even more critical in light of the fact that, while Hasinas government did not fully ensure the safety of the Hindu community, her ouster has significantly worsened their situation. The ensuing political upheaval has emboldened Islamist extremists, leading to violence reminiscent of the October 2013 unrest. This recent outbreak against Hindus highlights a deepening crisis as the country grapples with instability. With Yunus at the helm of the interim government, he is in a unique position to address these challenges and work towards fostering an environment of peace and equality for all communities in Bangladesh. Breakdown of law and order Reports from various regions paint a dire picture. Hindu homes are systematically targeted, set on fire and looted, while women face abductions. This reflects a total breakdown of law and order with the administration seemingly unable or unwilling to protect its Hindu citizens from escalating violence. One of the most egregious incidents occurred at an ISKCON centre in Meherpur, Khulna Division, where attackers reportedly set fire to the premises, including sacred deities of Lord Jagannath, Baladev, and Subhadra Devi. Miraculously, three devotees managed to escape, but the attack has left a lasting scar on the community. Such assaults on religious institutions are frequent, with many Hindu temples, including those dedicated to ISKCON and the Kali temple, being targeted. Advertisement Eyewitness accounts and ground reality Videos and eyewitness accounts corroborate the scale and brutality of these atrocities. The attackers exhibit a blatant disregard for human life terrorising civilians left without protection. The Hindu populace is forced to fend for themselves amid growing hostility and fear. The targeting of women adds another layer of horror. Eyewitnesses report numerous instances of women being abducted and taken to undisclosed locations, further traumatising families already facing violence and displacement. This targeted violence is part of a broader campaign aimed at demoralising and destabilising the Hindu community. The absence of a decisive government response has only emboldened the perpetrators. The lack of intervention has exacerbated the crisis, leaving the Hindu community in a perpetual state of fear for their lives and safety. Reports indicate a systematic assault on Hindu communities and religious sites, signalling a tipping point. Advertisement Amid this turmoil, the international communitys attention is crucial. The crisis highlights the vulnerability of religious minorities in politically unstable regions and raises questions about the future of secularism and tolerance in Bangladesh. Without intervention, the safety and security of the Hindu community remain precarious with potential long-term ramifications for Bangladeshs social fabric. In Bangladesh, the plight of Hindus has been a matter of significant concern for many years. Despite being the second-largest religious group in the country, Hindus often face a range of challenges, including discrimination, violence and marginalisation. The history of atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh is both tragic and complex, marked by periods of intense violence, forced conversions and systemic discrimination. These incidents underscore the vulnerability of minority communities in a country where religious identity can often become a basis for targeted aggression. Advertisement Historical context The Hindu community in Bangladesh traces its roots back thousands of years and has played a significant role in the regions cultural and historical development. However, the partition of India in 1947 and the subsequent creation of Pakistan, which included present-day Bangladesh (then East Pakistan), marked the beginning of a difficult era for Hindus. The partition itself was accompanied by widespread communal violence, which saw thousands of Hindus displaced or killed. The situation worsened during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, where the Pakistani military and its collaborators carried out mass atrocities against Bengali Hindus, resulting in an estimated 2.4 million Hindu deaths. This dark chapter in history left a lasting scar on the Hindu community in Bangladesh. Advertisement Since the independence of Bangladesh in 1971, Hindus have continued to face persecution in various forms. Reports of attacks on Hindu temples, properties and individuals have been alarmingly frequent. These incidents often peak during religious festivals or political unrest, indicating a targeted approach to intimidate and oppress the minority community. The destruction of temples, desecration of idols and arson attacks on Hindu homes have become distressingly common. In many cases, these acts of violence are fuelled by land-grabbing motives, where Hindu properties are forcibly taken over by influential groups with little to no legal repercussions. For instance, during the nationwide anti-Hindu violence in 2013, numerous Hindu villages were attacked. Homes were burned, temples were vandalised and many Hindus were left homeless. Similar incidents were reported during the communal violence in October 2021, where over 70 Hindu temples were vandalised across Bangladesh following false rumours of the desecration of the Quran. There were falsified images of a copy of the Quran in the lap of Lord Hanumans idol at a Durga Puja pandal in Comilla district were circulated over the internet by Jamaat-e-Islami members which resulted in massive violence against the Hindus. Social and political discrimination Beyond physical violence, Hindus in Bangladesh face systemic discrimination in various aspects of life, including education, employment and political representation. Many Hindu families feel pressured to leave their ancestral homes due to threats and harassment leading to a significant decline in the Hindu population over the decades. The communitys political representation remains disproportionately low, limiting their influence in addressing their grievances and advocating for their rights. The Vested Property Act, originally enacted as the Enemy Property Act in 1965, is one of the most significant legal challenges faced by Hindus. This law allowed the government to confiscate properties deemed enemy property, primarily targeting Hindus who fled to India during times of communal strife. Despite reforms, the legacy of this act continues to affect many Hindu families, who struggle to reclaim their ancestral properties. Dwindling Hindu population in Bangladesh The latest census conducted in 2022 highlighted a concerning trend in Bangladesh: a continued decline in the population of minority religions. According to the census, the Hindu population now constitutes 7.95 per cent of the total population. This marks a decrease from the 8.54 per cent recorded in the 2011 census, reflecting a persistent downward trajectory over the past decade. The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics report further revealed that Khulna Division experienced the most pronounced decline in the Hindu population, with a reduction of 1.33 per cent over the past decade. Historically, the proportion of Hindus in Bangladesh has witnessed a steep decline. Prior to the partition in 1941, Hindus made up approximately 28 per cent of the population. This percentage drastically fell to 8.5 per cent by 2011. The reduction in Hindu demographic share is indicative of complex socio-political dynamics that have influenced population patterns over the decades. The annual report published by the Bangladesh Jatiya Hindu Mohajote in 2020 presented alarming statistics on violence and persecution against Hindus. Between 2015 and 2020, there was a significant rise in the number of incidents involving Hindus being killed, injured, abducted converted and raped. This trend of increasing violence not only impacts the physical security of the Hindu community but also contributes to their declining numbers as many are forced to flee or convert due to socio-political pressures. The political landscape in Bangladesh has often been challenging for minority groups. Systematic persecution including forced conversions and destruction of religious sites further marginalises minority communities and discourages them from maintaining their religious identities. The historical context of religious demographics in Bangladesh reveals a long-term trend of declining Hindu populations. This decline is not merely a statistical anomaly but a reflection of the socio-political and cultural challenges faced by the Hindu community in Bangladesh. Yunuss crucial test While Yunuss reputation and vision for a more liberated Bangladesh offer hope, the current crisis facing the Hindu community presents an immediate and grave challenge. As Yunus steps into his role, his success will hinge on his ability to address these critical issues with both strategic acumen and a deep commitment to justice and equality. Amid reports that the West, including the US, sought Sheikh Hasinas ouster from power, the US has revoked her visa as the former Bangladesh PM seeks asylum in the West, according to a report, citing sources close to the opposition in Bangladesh read more Sheikh Hasina is likely to prolong her stay in India as the UK is not prepared to grant her refuge. Source: Bangladesh PMO/ FILE Amid reports that the West, including the US, sought Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas ouster from power, the US has revoked her visa as the former PM seeks asylum in the West, according to a News 18 report, citing sources close to the opposition in Bangladesh. Hasina, who resigned and fled to India following violent protests in Bangladesh, is likely to be in India for a few more days as the UK is not prepared to grant her refuge, added the report. Advertisement The report also suggested that her sister, Sheikh Rehana, who holds UK citizenship, may leave for the UK shortly. Hasina, who landed at the Hindon airbase on Monday in a C-130J military transport aircraft hours after resigning as the prime minister, has been shifted to an unspecified location under tight security, according to people familiar with the matter. The former Bangladesh prime minister, accompanied by her sister, planned to leave for London from India to take temporary refuge but the option is not being pursued now. This is after the UK government indicated that she may not get legal protection against any possible probe into the massive violent protests in her country. The Awami League leader planned to travel to London through India and her aides informed Indian authorities about it before she landed in Hindon. Hasina decided to travel to London as Rehanas daughter Tulip Siddiq is a member of the British Parliament. Tulip is economic secretary to the Treasury and Labour MP for Hampstead and Highgate. In a statement, British foreign secretary David Lammy said in London on Monday that Bangladesh has seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life in the last two weeks and people of the country deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events. An expert familiar with the British governments policy on providing refuge said the the UK has a proud record of providing protection for people who need it. However, there is no provision within our Immigration Rules for someone to be allowed to travel to the UK to seek asylum or temporary refuge, he said. Those who need international protection should claim asylum in the first safe country they reach, that is the fastest route to safety, he said. Advertisement According to PTI, citing people in the know, said Hasina has apprised New Delhi about her possible future steps. It is also learnt that Hasina has family members in Finland as well and that is why she also contemplated leaving for the northern European country. While saying that Hasinas travel plans have hit certain issues and she may stay in the country for the next couple of days, the people also described the situation as dynamic with no definitive path or clarity on the matter. The 76-year-old who ruled the South Asian country with an iron fist for 15 years, resigned as the prime minister following the massive protests that initially began as an agitation against a job quota scheme but weeks later morphed into a mass movement demanding her ouster from power. Advertisement The controversial quota system provided for 30 per cent reservations in civil services jobs for the families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. Hasinas Awami League retained power in the parliamentary election in January that was boycotted by the opposition parties. The former Bangladesh prime minister left her official residence Ganabhavan in a military chopper to an airbase, the sources said. From the airbase, she flew into Hindon in a C-130 military transport aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force, they said. With inputs from agencies US District Judge Amit Mehta ruled that Googles search engine has been illegally exploiting its dominant position to stifle competition. For maintaining monopoly, Googles strategy included spending billions annually to ensure its search engine remains the default option on new phones read more A US District judge has ruled that Google is a monopolist that has used its deep pockets to ensure its market dominance and stifled its competitors. File image US District Judge Amit Mehta on Monday (August 5) ruled that Googles search engine has been illegally exploiting its dominant position to stifle competition and hinder innovation. Judge Mehtas ruling comes after a nearly year-long trial, initiated by the U.S. Justice Department, marking the biggest antitrust case in the US in 25 years. The landmark decisionis likely to have significant implications for the internet giant. Heres a look at the decision, and how Google maintained its monopoly. Advertisement Google is a monopolist The trial featured testimonies from top executives at Google, Microsoft, and Apple, with the judge reviewing extensive evidence over a 10-week period. After having carefully considered and weighed the witness testimony and evidence, the court reaches the following conclusion: Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly," Judge Mehta wrote in his 277-page decision. The judge pointed to Googles overwhelming market share, which stands at 89.2 per cent for general search services and rises to 94.9 per cent on mobile devices, as clear evidence of its monopoly. How Google maintained monopoly Googles strategy included spending billions annually to ensure its search engine remains the default option on new cellphones and tech gadgets. In 2021 alone, Google spent more than $26 billion on these default agreements, a practice that Mehta concluded reinforced its monopoly. The judge noted that Microsofts Bing holds an 80 per cent market share on the Microsoft Edge browser. That, he said, illustrated that other search engines can succeed if not overshadowed by Googles default status. The ruling is a significant setback for Google and its parent company, Alphabet Inc., which has defended its search engines popularity as a result of consumer preference. Potential impacts Moving forward, the court will determine the necessary changes or penalties to address Googles anticompetitive practices and restore a more competitive market. A hearing scheduled for September 6 will set the stage for these discussions. Advertisement Possible outcomes range from dismantling parts of Googles internet empire to restricting its ability to secure default search agreements on devices. Kent Walker, Googles president of global affairs, announced that the company plans to appeal the decision, arguing that it unfairly penalises Google for its success. This decision recognises that Google offers the best search engine but concludes that we shouldnt be allowed to make it easily available, Walker said. The appeals process, which could extend for up to five years, will delay any immediate changes, according to Evelyn Mitchell-Wolf. The decision opens the door for class-action lawsuits against Google, citing monopolistic pricing practices. It may benefit competitors like Microsoft, whose own dominance was curtailed by a similar antitrust case in the 1990s. Restrictions on Googles default search deals could also affect Apple, which has significantly benefited from Googles payments, estimated at $20 billion in 2022 alone. Advertisement With inputs from AP Since 2017, Yahya Sinwar has been the chief of terrorist group Hamas in the Gaza Strip read more Yahya Sinwar will be the new leader of Hamas, said the terrorist group in a statement. The Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas announces the selection of leader Yahya Sinwar as the head of the political bureau of the movement, said the statement from Hamas, according to AFP. Sinwar has replaced Ismail Haniyeh as the leader of Hamas political bureau, who was assassinated in Irans capital Tehran last week. Since 2017, Sinwar has been the chief of Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Advertisement Along with Mohammed Deif, the military chief of Hamas, Sinwar is considered to be the principal architect of the October 7 attack on Israel that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza. Deif was assassinated by Israel last month. As Sinwar is the principal architect of the October 7 attack and is widely considered to be the more hardliner and extremist of Hamas leaders, his elevation to the head of the group may also have a damning effect on the negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza and release of hostages which are already stalled owing to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus revision of the terms of the deal. Previously, Khaled Mashal was being considered to be the frontrunner to replace Haniyeh. He had headed Hamas during 1996-2017 and was succeeded by Haniyeh. Sinwar, who is known for brutal violent tactics, takes over complete control of Hamas at a time when the Middle East is at the brink of war. Iran has vowed revenge for Haniyehs assassination, which came hours after fellow Iran-backed anti-Israel terrorist group Hezbollahs military chief Faud Shukrs assassination, and is expected to attack Israel anytime. There are fears that the cycle of violence could lead to an all-out war in the Middle East. For years, Sinwar has been known to fuel violence in Israel and Gaza and rely on the deaths of Palestinians to drive the war on Israel. In the ongoing war, The Wall Street Journal has reported that he is relying on the rising death toll of Palestinians and their continued misery to corner Israel at the international stage, which already finds itself isolated over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Advertisement Who is new Gaza chief Yahya Sinwar? Sinwar was born in 1962 in Gazas Khan Younis city. He has been a terrorist with Hamas since its inception. Sinwar joined the Palestinian Islamist movement in 1980s and helped organise Munazzamat al-Jihad wa al-Dawah (Al-Majd). In 1987, when Hamas was founded, Sinwars Al-Majd was absorbed in it and Al-Majd formed the security cadre of the new Palestinian terrorist group. In 1988, Sinwar was detained by Israel and was later convicted for murder and was sentenced for life in jail. He would have spent his entire life in prison if were not freed in a prisoner swap in 2011 when Hamas sought the release of hundreds of Palestinians terrorists in lieu of a captured soldier. Advertisement In 2011, Sinwar got a fresh lease of life and joined the cause of terrorism again. In 2017, he was elevated to the membership of Hamas political bureau and was made the chief of the group in Gaza. Jewish doctor saved Sinwars life, then Hamas abducted his nephew If not for Israeli doctors, Sinwar would have long been dead. Dr Yuval Bitton, a Jewish Israeli doctor, was a working at the infirmary of the prison where Sinwar was lodged. Sinwar was suffering from a mystery sickness at the time when Bitton suspected he had a stroke or an abscess, according to The New York Times. Advertisement At Bittons advice, Sinwar was rushed to a hospital where the doctors performed an emergency surgery and removed a brain tumour that would have killed him if left untreated, as per the paper. Bitton, to whom Sinwar said he owed his life, then developed a relationship with Sinwar and the two often talked over tea about Hamas. It is in these conversations that Sinwar told the doctor that their war was not political but religious and their was no scope of a two-state solution for Hamas. Hamas sees the land we live on as the holy land, like, This is ours, you dont have a right to live in this land,. It wasnt political, it was religious, said Bitton to The Times. Advertisement In the October 7 attack last year, which was masterminded by Sinwar, the Hamas terrorists attacked the house of Bittons nephew and abducted him. He is one of the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, according to the newspaper. The travel advisory for Indian citizens comes in the wake of significant civil disturbances across the UK. The recent unrest has been triggered by far-right riots and anti-immigrant protests following a stabbing incident in Southport that killed three children read more Smoke billows from a fire started by protesters as riot police stand guard after disturbances near the Southport Islamic Society Mosque in Southport, northwest England, a day after a deadly child knife attack. AFP The High Commission of India in London has issued a travel advisory for Indian citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom, following recent disturbances in some parts of the country. The advisory urges travelers to remain vigilant and exercise caution while traveling within the UK. The High Commission advises Indian visitors to stay informed by following local news and security advisories issued by local authorities. It is recommended to avoid areas where protests or disturbances are taking place to ensure personal safety. Advertisement The travel advisory for Indian citizens comes in the wake of significant civil disturbances across the UK. The recent unrest has been triggered by far-right riots and anti-immigrant protests following a stabbing incident in Southport that killed three children. Violence has erupted in Britain following a knife attack that resulted in the deaths of three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event in Southport. The attack has triggered widespread unrest, with right-wing activists spreading false claims on social media that the suspect, Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, was a Muslim immigrant. This misinformation has sparked anti-immigrant riots in over a dozen UK towns and cities, including Manchester and the capital city of London. Rioters targeted mosques and hotels housing asylum-seekers, leading to hundreds of arrests. In response, the government has announced plans to deploy a standing army of specialist police to address the unrest. Tensions over immigration and housing for asylum-seekers have fueled the violence, worsened by economic issues and failing public services. In case of an emergency, Indian citizens can contact the High Commission of India at India House, Aldwych, London WC2B 4NA. The High Commission can be reached by phone at +44 (0) 20 7836 9147 or via email at inf.london@mea.gov.in. Bangladeshs figurehead president, Mohammed Shahabuddin, announced late Monday (August 5), after meeting with Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman and opposition politicians, that Parliament would be dissolved and a national government would be formed as soon as possible, leading to fresh elections read more US president Joe Biden's administration has said interim govt should be formed following democratic principles after Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina resigned. File image/Reuters The US government has called for the formation of an interim government in Bangladesh, which has plunged into chaos following the sudden resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid violent anti-quota protests. This interim government, the US insists, should be formed according to democratic principles, the rule of law, and the will of the Bangladeshi people. We want to see the Bangladeshi people decide the future of the Bangladeshi government, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters at his daily news conference. Advertisement Miller stressed that the Biden administration is closely monitoring the situation and is calling for an end to the violence and for accountability for the deaths that have occurred over the past few weeks. Bangladesh has been thrown into turmoil as Prime Minister Hasina quietly resigned and fled the country in a military aircraft. The army stepped in to fill the power vacuum by announcing an interim government. President Shahabuddin gives hope for fresh elections The military chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman, said he was temporarily taking control of the country, and soldiers moved to stem the growing unrest. The countrys figurehead president, Mohammed Shahabuddin, announced late Monday (August 5), after meeting with Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman and opposition politicians, that Parliament would be dissolved and a national government would be formed as soon as possible, leading to fresh elections. Speaking after Sheikh Hasina was seen in television footage boarding a military helicopter with her sister, Waker-uz-Zaman sought to reassure a jittery nation that order would be restored. Experts, though, warned that the road ahead would be long. Hundreds of thousands of people poured into the streets, waving flags and cheering to celebrate Hasinas resignation. But some celebrations soon turned violent, with protesters attacking symbols of her government and party, ransacking and setting fires in several buildings. With inputs from agencies Amid political turmoil in Bangladesh, Irans Ambassador to India Iraj Elahi on Tuesday said that the unrest in Bangladesh has raised concerns about the lives of people, countrys and regions stability and if there is no solution to the crisis, it will affect all regions read more Irans Ambassador to India Iraj Elahi said he hopes rule of law returns to Bangladesh soon. ANI Amid political turmoil in Bangladesh, Irans Ambassador to India Iraj Elahi on Tuesday said that the unrest in Bangladesh has raised concerns about the lives of people, countrys and regions stability and if there is no solution to the crisis, it will affect all regions. Speaking to ANI news agency, Elahi said, Bangladesh is an important country in the region. It is a big Muslim country. Iran has traditional relations with Bangladesh. What happened in Bangladesh has raised our concerns about the lives of people, this countrys stability and the regions stability. Advertisement #WATCH | Delhi | On the current situation in Bangladesh, Irans Ambassador to India, Dr. Iraj Elahi says, "Bangladesh is an important country in the region. It is a big Muslim country. Iran has traditional relations with Bangladesh. What happened in Bangladesh has raised our pic.twitter.com/jRQc2eAQ33 ANI (@ANI) August 6, 2024 He added, If there is no peace or stability in Bangladesh, then it will affect all regions. We hope that very soon we will witness stability and the rule of law in Bangladesh. Talking about the situation in West Asia after the killing of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh, Elahi said the crimes of Israel in Gaza and Lebanon are continuing. Recently, we have witnessed a terrorist operation inside Iran, the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was an official guest in Iran. The situation is escalating and deteriorating. Daily we are witnessing cases of innocent people increasing. 40,000 lives have been lost. So it is not just a figure. More than 90,000 have been wounded. All Palestinians have been displaced, said the ambassador. Advertisement #WATCH | Delhi | On the current situation in Bangladesh, Irans Ambassador to India, Dr. Iraj Elahi says, "Bangladesh is an important country in the region. It is a big Muslim country. Iran has traditional relations with Bangladesh. What happened in Bangladesh has raised our pic.twitter.com/jRQc2eAQ33 ANI (@ANI) August 6, 2024 He also accused the US of supporting Israel for committing genocide in Gaza. From another side, we are witnessing, the full support of the United States to Israel and Netanyahu, who is responsible for this genocide. It is natural it will provoke the feelings of all people in the war, added Elahi. With inputs from agencies Iran is widely expected to launch a large offensive against Israel anytime in retaliation to the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran read more As the Middle East braces for war, Russia has come to Irans aid. Ahead of Irans offensive against archenemy Israel, Russia has started supplying it with advanced military systems, according to a report. Iran is widely expected to attack Israel anytime in retaliation to the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the chief of terrorist group Hamas, in Tehran last week. Hamas and Iran have blamed Israel for the killing and have vowed revenge. It is understood that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has ordered direct attacks on Israel. Advertisement Now, The New York Times has reported that Russia has started supplying Iran with advanced radars and air defence systems. More than attacking Israel, these systems will be beneficial in protecting against any Israeli retaliation to the attack. There are fears that the exchange between Israel and Iran could lead to an escalatory spiral that could envelop the Middle East in an all-out war. Russia boosts Irans air defences: Report The report of Russian deliveries of radars and air defence systems to Iran came as top Russian official Sergei Shoigu visited Iran on Monday. Shoigu, a key ally of Putin, met President Masoud Pezeshkian and Iranian military chief Brigadier General Mohammad Bagheri. The New York Times reported that Bagheri is in charge of planning the Israeli offensive against Israel. The newspaper further reported two Iranian officials as saying that, following Irans request for the systems, Russia has started delivering advanced radars and air defence systems to the country. Russia and Iran have emerged as strong allies in the recent years. Russia is heavily dependent on Iranian drones for the war in Ukraine. The two countries have also recently decided to increase their military and intelligence cooperation. In recent years, Iran and Russia, along with China and North Korea, have emerged as an anti-Western bloc where they are working towards weakening the existing rules-based democratic world order and are pushing for their new world order. Advertisement Will there be an all-out war in the Middle East? Even as Western and regional leaders are pressing both Iran and Israel to not act in a way that it leads to an all-out war, Iran has reportedly said it does not care. The Wall Street Journal has reported that Iran has told Arab countries that it no longer cares if its attack on Israel leads to a full-scale war in the Middle East. The United States and Israel have assessed that the Iranian attack is imminent. Previously, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had said the attack could take place on Monday or Tuesday. The United States has additional sent fighter planes, warships, and an aircraft carrier to the region to bolster the presence to defend its own interests along with aiding Israel in defence against the Iranian barrage. Advertisement The United States is looking forward to revive the Western and regional coalition of April when the US, British, French, Jordanian, and Saudi militaries came together to help Israel beat back the unprecedented Iranian barrage. However, as the anti-Israel sentiment has exploded in the region following Haniyehs killing, reviving the coalition is proving to be harder and it is not known if the Arab countries will be joining the defensive coalition this time. The Israeli military has confirmed that Bilha Yinon, the last person previously listed as missing from the October 7 Hamas attack, was killed by militants that day. Forensic evidence has verified her death, concluding an extensive search effort read more A religious Jewish man walks at Ben Gurion airport near Tel Aviv on August 6, 2024, amid regional tensions during the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian Hamas movement in the Gaza Strip. AFP The Israeli military confirmed on Tuesday that Bilha Yinon, the last person listed as missing from the October 7 Hamas attack, was killed by militants that day. Today, IDF (Israel army) representatives officially informed the family of Bilha Yinon that she is no longer alive, the military said in a statement. The Israeli military and investigators had carried out an extensive search for her, the statement said. As part of this effort, evidence was discovered in the area of Yinons house that, after complex testing, enabled the verification of her identity, it said. Advertisement Based on forensic evidence, Israeli experts determined that she was killed on October 7, the military added. Hamas militants attacked southern Israeli communities on that day, resulting in the death of 1,198 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Militants also seized 251 people, 111 of whom are still held captive in Gaza, including 39 the military says are dead. Israels retaliatory military campaign in Gaza has so far killed at least 39,653 people, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory, which does not provide details on civilian and militant deaths. Hezbollah launched drone and rocket attacks on northern Israel on Tuesday, marking a sharp escalation in ongoing violence. The attacks come after Israeli strikes killed Hezbollah fighters and amid rising fears of a broader regional conflict following recent high-profile killings by Israel. read more This picture taken from northern Israel shows smoke billowing during Israeli bombardment of the Wazzani river area in southern Lebanon on August 6, 2024, amid continuing cross-border clashes between Israeli troops and Lebanon's Hezbollah fighters. AFP Hezbollah launched a series of drone and rocket attacks into northern Israel Tuesday, targeting military sites near Acre and an Israeli military vehicle. This escalation follows recent Israeli strikes that have heightened tensions between the two sides. Hezbollah has warned that its full retaliation for the killing of its top commander, Fuad Shukr, last week is still to come. The Israeli military reported intercepting some of the hostile drones and said that several civilians were injured south of Nahariya. Footage showed one impact site near a bus stop outside the city. The Israeli military also struck two Hezbollah facilities in southern Lebanon in response. Advertisement The violence is part of a broader conflict that has been ongoing for the last ten months, linked to the Gaza war. The recent escalation is fueled by Hezbollahs vow to avenge Shukrs death and Irans threats of retaliation for the killing of the Hamas leader Haniyeh in Tehran last week. Earlier on Tuesday, an Israeli strike hit a home in the Lebanese town of Mayfadoun, killing five people, who were reported to be Hezbollah fighters. Hezbollah has not yet issued official death notices for these fighters. The Israeli military described the strike as targeting a Hezbollah military structure used to advance attacks against Israel. Hezbollah also claimed attacks on northern Israel, including using explosive-laden drones against a barracks north of Acre. The Israeli emergency services reported treating a 30-year-old man in serious condition and a 30-year-old woman with moderate injuries from shrapnel. Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah has promised a studied response to Shukrs killing, and he is expected to address the situation in a televised speech later today. The cross-border violence since October has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. At least 555 people in Lebanon have been killed, including 116 civilians, while Israel has reported 22 soldiers and 25 civilians killed, including in the Golan Heights. Advertisement As the conflict continues, fears are rising that the Middle East could be drawn into a larger war involving multiple regional powers and factions. City officials in Montreal predict that the new policy of allowing 24-hour drinking predict will generate substantial revenue, potentially hundreds of millions of dollars read more Montreal, Canadas second-largest city, is set to make a significant change to its nightlife scene by allowing venues to operate 24 hours a day, thus facilitating drinking and open bars round the clock. This move follows in the footsteps of Berlin and Tokyo, both of which already embrace round-the-clock nightlife. The shift aims to enhance the citys night-time economy and cultural scene. In fact, as per a report by Bloomberg, Berlin has been a 24-hour nightlife city for quite some time now. Shortly after World War II, a hotelier convinced the American sectors commandant in West Berlin that eliminating the citys last call would boost the economy and reflect Western values. To support this, trains in Berlin also operate 24 hours on weekends and holidays, accommodating the vibrant nightlife. Advertisement Economic & cultural impact City officials in Montreal predict that the new policy will generate substantial revenue, potentially hundreds of millions of dollars. Currently, bars and clubs in Montreal are required to close by 3 am. With the new plan, the city will become the first in Canada to permit all-night drinking, reported BBC. This change is expected to boost Montreals nightlife financial value, which was estimated at C$2.25 billion in 2022, contributing C$121 million in taxes. Mixed reactions from public While city councillor Ericka Alneus views the policy as an opportunity for both economic growth and cultural enrichment, some residents express concerns. As per the report, critics argue that the city lacks adequate infrastructure, such as 24-hour public transport and increased security, to support the new hours effectively. BBC quoted Sergio Da Silva, owner of Turbo Haus Club, stating that the need for comprehensive planning beyond just extending bar hours, citing concerns about public safety and the cost of living. Learning from other cities Mirik Milan, Amsterdams former night mayor, highlights the potential benefits of embracing nightlife as a key cultural asset. During his tenure, Amsterdam saw a reduction in alcohol-related violence and nuisance. Challenges & past disappointments The road to a successful 24-hour nightlife policy is not without its obstacles. Efforts in other cities, such as London and Sydney, have faced criticism and challenges. Londons 24-hour city proposal, led by Mayor Sadiq Khan and night czar Amy Lame, received backlash and social media criticism, while Sydneys night mayor initiative also encountered skepticism. Advertisement Looking ahead As Montreal prepares to launch its 24-hour drinking policy in the autumn, Alneus remains optimistic. We are trying to be trailblazers, she says, pushing forward something that benefits both the economic growth of the city and its cultural identity. The initiative aims to spotlight Montreals vibrant night-time scene and position the city as a leader in the evolving global nightlife landscape. With inputs from agencies Elon Musks comments sympathetic to far-right protesters have sparked a fiery response from the UK government, which accuses social media of exacerbating the unrest. The riots, fueled by misinformation about a stabbing suspect, have led to clashes, attacks on minority communities, and heightened scrutiny of online platforms read more As far-right riots grip England, provocative tech billionaire Elon Musk is posting sympathy for the anti-immigration demonstrators, angering the UK government, which blames social media companies for fuelling the unrest. The week-long disturbances that have spread to numerous cities are linked to misinformation online that the suspect behind a mass stabbing that killed three girls was a Muslim asylum seeker. A war of words between X owner Musk and Prime Minister Keir Starmers recently elected Labour administration began on Sunday when Musk tweeted that a British civil war is inevitable. Advertisement Starmers spokesperson said Monday there was no justification for the comment, only for Musk to respond with a stream of posts Tuesday questioning the British leaders response to the riots. Musk also referenced a dubious claim about policing that has been widely denied by lawmakers from across the political spectrum and police chiefs. Use of language such as a civil war is in no way acceptable, justice minister Heidi Alexander said on Tuesday, branding Musks comments deeply irresponsible. We are seeing police officers being seriously injured, buildings set alight, and so I really do think that everyone who has a platform should be exercising their power responsibly, she told Times Radio. The riots follow the murder on Monday last week of three girls aged between six and nine at a Taylor Swift-themed dance party in Southport, northwest England. The suspect is 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana, who was born in Britain, reportedly to immigrants from Rwanda. He did not come to the UK on an illegal small boat crossing as false rumours on social media have suggested. Far-right protesters sometimes masked and brandishing British flags have clashed with police, torched cars, and attacked mosques and hotels housing asylum seekers, leading the government to provide emergency security to Islamic centres. Advertisement In a post on X on Monday, Starmer vowed to apply criminal law online as well as offline, adding that we will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities. Musk replied: Shouldnt you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities? His original civil war post came in reply to another X user blaming the riots on the effects of mass migration and open borders. The comment was not surprising for Elon Musk, whos been also feeding some of the conspiracy myths and some of the hateful rhetoric surrounding the riots, said Julia Ebner, Senior Researcher at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue who specialises in far-right extremism. Advertisement In a post on Tuesday, Musk retweeted a video claiming to show Muslims attacking a pub, repeating why arent all communities protected in Britain? and tagging Starmer. He also added a hashtag TwoTierKeir, referring to allegations by those on the right of two-tier policing in which far-right agitators are punished more harshly. Hard-right Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said on Monday that since the soft policing of the Black Lives Matter protests, the impression of two-tier policing has become widespread. The BLM protests were largely peaceful, but pockets of disorder were heavily cracked down on by police. So were previous riots largely involving minority ethnic groups in 2011 when Starmer himself was chief state prosecutor. Advertisement - Nowhere to hide - In Musks latest series of posts, he claimed the UK was censoring online content, saying is this Britain or the Soviet Union? Influencer Andrew Tate and far-right, anti-Islam figurehead Tommy Robinson are among people who promoted false claims about Rudakubana on X. EuropeInvasion, an anti-immigrant X account with hundreds of thousands of followers, still has a post up falsely claiming that the attacker was confirmed to be Muslim. One man charged with intending to stir up racial hatred related to alleged posts on Facebook in connection to the riots was due to appear in a court on Tuesday. Online comments can have a huge influence on offline behaviour, Ebner said. Advertisement Technology minister Peter Kyle met representatives from TikTok, Meta, Google, and X on Monday and warned that social media users spreading misinformation will have nowhere to hide. Musk - who has reduced content moderation on Twitter since taking over in 2022 - regularly voices support for right-wing causes and politicians like ex-US president Donald Trump and Argentina President Javier Milei. He has reinstated several far-right accounts, including that of former English Defence League leader Robinson who had been banned since 2018. Israeli warplanes flew low over the Lebanese capital, with witnesses saying they could see the planes with the naked eye read more Israeli warplanes broke the sound barrier three times over Beirut in less than 30 minutes on Tuesday, leading to loud booms that sent people in the city running for cover just ahead of a speech by the head of the powerful Iran-backed group Hezbollah. Israeli warplanes flew low over the Lebanese capital, with witnesses saying they could see the planes with the naked eye. The booms were the loudest heard in Beirut in years. One Reuters reporter saw people at a cafe in Beiruts Badaro district scatter as the sound reverberated through the city. Advertisement Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah was set to begin an address at around 5 p.m. (1400 GMT) to mark one week since the killing of the Lebanese armed groups top military commander Fuad Shukr in an Israeli strike in Beiruts southern suburbs. Hezbollah has promised to respond to the killing, which came just hours before the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in an operation blamed on Israel but which Israel has not confirmed or denied undertaking. The twin killings have pushed the region to the brink of war, with Iran also vowing a painful response. Bangladeshs protesting student leaders have demanded that parliament be dissolved by 3 pm on Tuesday and warned a strict programme would be launched if their deadline is not met read more Normalcy is limping back in Bangladesh hours after Sheikh Hasina resigned from the prime ministerial post and fled from her country. The indefinite curfew which was imposed on Sunday was lifted on Tuesday morning. In a statement issued late on Monday evening, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the curfew will remain imposed till 6:00 am on Tuesday following which all government and semi-government offices, private offices, factories and all educational institutions including schools, colleges, madrasah and universities will reopen. Advertisement However, the protesting student leaders have warned of launching a strict programme if Bangladesh parliament is not dissolved by 3 pm on Tuesday. In a video post on Facebook, the student leaders said that parliament should be dissolved by 3 pm (0900 GMT) on Tuesday and asked revolutionary students to be ready if that did not happen. With things gradually move towards normalcy after the Bangladesh Army assured of formation of interim government, a tense atmosphere prevailed in most parts of the country on Tuesday. The Secretariat also witnessed lesser number of officers and employees reporting to work and several ministers and MPs were absent. As per Dhaka Tribune report, those who did not report to work on Tuesday were filled with fear and anxiety. Why curfew was imposed in Bangladesh? The curfew was imposed in Bangladesh on August 4 to quash protests in Bangladesh that claimed the lives of over 300 people. However, hours after seizing power following the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, the Bangladesh Army said that it would lift the curfew on Tuesday. With inputs from agencies Moscow has said talks must be based on Ukraine ceding land amounting to a fifth of its territory - much of it seized by Russian forces - and renouncing any prospect of joining the Nato alliance, terms that Ukraine has dismissed out of hand read more Ukrainian service members of the 110th Colonel-General Marko Bezruchko Separate Mechanized Brigade prepare to fire an RM-70 Vampire multiple launch rocket system towards Russian troops, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, at a position near a front line in Donetsk region, Ukraine, on June 30, 2024. Reuters File A top Russian official told Ukraine on Tuesday that the longer it waited to enter peace talks, the tougher the terms would be for its people. Moscow has said talks must be based on Ukraine ceding land amounting to a fifth of its territory - much of it seized by Russian forces - and renouncing any prospect of joining the Western-led NATO alliance, terms that Ukraine has dismissed out of hand. Sergei Shoigu, secretary of Russias Security Council and until recently President Vladimir Putins defence minister, said that since Putin had proposed peace terms on June 14, Ukraine had lost 420 sq km (162 sq miles) of territory and much blood. Advertisement The window of opportunity for Ukraine is narrowing, he was shown saying by state television, adding that Ukraine had not responded and would lose more territory the longer it delayed. The Kyiv regimes illusions that the Europeans will arrange another beautiful peace summit, at which all their internal problems will be resolved by themselves, are costing the people of Ukraine dearly, Shoigu said. He gave a figure for Ukrainian troop losses but Reuters cannot verify such numbers, and neither side enumerates its own casualties. Having sent in its troops in 2022, Russia now controls about 18% of Ukraine including Crimea, which it seized and unilaterally annexed in 2014. It also holds swathes of four regions in southeastern Ukraine that Putin, claiming historical and cultural justification, says Kyiv must cede in their entirety. Reuters has reported that Putin is ready to halt the war with a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines, but is prepared to fight on if Kyiv and the West do not respond. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said last month that Kyiv was prepared for talks provided Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity, recognised by the vast majority of U.N. member states, were fully respected. Looking to cement its lead in the chip industry, the US on Tuesday agreed to provide up to $450 million to South Korean semiconductor firm SK hynix to help build a chip packaging plant in the US state of Indiana read more President Joe Biden's administration has previously approved billions in grants to South Korea's Samsung, US titan Intel and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) as it tries to avoid shortages of semiconductors. Reuters The United States said Tuesday it has agreed to provide up to $450 million to South Korean semiconductor firm SK hynix to help build a chip packaging plant in the US state of Indiana. The award is the latest from the US government as it looks to cement its lead in the chip industry - especially for chips needed for the development of artificial intelligence - both on national security grounds and also in the face of competition with China. Advertisement President Joe Bidens administration has previously approved billions in grants to South Koreas Samsung, US titan Intel and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) as it tries to avoid shortages of semiconductors - the lifeblood of the modern global economy. The agreement with SK hynix, the worlds second-largest memory chip maker, offers the company $450 million in proposed direct funding as well as $500 million in proposed loans, the US Commerce Department said in a statement. The SK hynix facility, at the Purdue University Research Park, will house an advanced semiconductor packaging line that will manufacture next-generation high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips, filling a critical gap in the US supply chain, the department said. SK hynix dominates the market for HBM semiconductors and is a key supplier for Nvidia, which controls about 80 percent of the global AI chip market. The high-performance memory chips are crucial components of graphics processing units (GPUs) that train AI systems due to their increased processing power, the department added. SK hynix CEO Kwak Noh-Jung said his company looks forward to establishing a new hub for AI technology and helping create a more robust, resilient supply chain for the global semiconductor industry. The Indiana facility is expected to create around 1,000 jobs, the Commerce Department said. As far-right mobs indulge in the worst violence in years, more than 400 rioters have so far been arrested in the United Kingdom read more As far-right groups prepare for rioting, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Tuesday said they would feel the full force of the law. Following an emergency meeting, Starmer said that he expected substantive sentencing for those held so far for rioting before the end of the week. In the week-long rioting by far-right mobs in the United Kingdom, more than 400 people have been arrested. The mobs mounted anti-immigrant riots after the murder of three girls last months in Southport town. This is the worst rioting in the United Kingdom in several years. Advertisement The Sun has reported that riots have taken place in at least 23 locations across England and Northern Ireland since Friday. The mobs have also attacked and injured police personnel with bricks, bottles, and firebombs. The situation may further escalate on Wednesday as the police have intelligence that riots are being planned at as many as 39 locations across the UK. The newspaper reported that an arson manual is being circulated in an online forum as rioters plan to attack 39 immigrants centres on Wednesday. In the wake of such threats, Starmer said that around 6,000 specialised riot-control police personnel are being deployed across the UK to contain the situation. Rioters will face full force of law Following the emergency meeting with top ministers and security officers, Starmer said that riots will feel the full force of the law. Speaking to reporters, Starmer said that everyone involved in the rioting will be sentenced within a week and there will not be lengthy trials. Those involved will feel the full force of the lawOver 400 people now have been arrested, 100 have been charged some in relation to online activity and a number of them are already in court. Im now expecting substantive sentencing before the end of this week, said Starmer. Starmer said that even those participating in riotous activities online will not be spared. Advertisement That should send a very powerful message to anybody involved, either directly or online, that you are likely to be dealt with within a week and that nobody, but nobody should be involving themselves in this disorder, said Starmer. Terrorism charges being considered against rioters The top British prosecutor has said that terrorism charges are being considered against rioters. Stephen Parkinson, the Director of Public Prosecution, said rioters will go to prison for sure and there is no doubt about it. There are sentencing guidelines which indicate that many people who have been caught up in this disorder will face immediate imprisonment. There should be no doubt about that. They are going to prison, said Parkinson, as per The Sun. Advertisement Parkinson further said that while terrorism charges are being considered broadly, such charges have already been slapped in at least one case. We are willing to look at terrorism offences. Im aware of at least one instance where that is happening. Where you have organised groups planning activity for the purposes of advancing [an] ideology planning really, really serious disruption then yes, we will consider terrorism offences, said Parkinson. On August 5th, Fortune China released the 2024 Fortune Global 500 list. Chery Holding Group Co., Ltd., with an operating revenue of $39.0917 billion, made it onto the list, ranking 385th. This marks the first time an auto company from Anhui has entered the Fortune Global 500. This year, the combined revenue of the companies on the Fortune Global 500 list is approximately $41 trillion, a 0.1% increase from the previous year. The threshold to enter the list (minimum operating revenue) is $32.1 billion. A total of 133 Chinese companies made the list, with their combined revenue for 2023 reaching about $11 trillion. Chery, which debuted on the list this year, is one of the representative enterprises of China's independent automotive brands. Starting from a small "grass hut" 27 years ago, Chery has grown step by step into a Fortune Global 500 company with 14.2 million global users, business operations in over 80 countries and regions, and the most internationalized Chinese automotive brand. From 2021 to 2023, Chery Group's annual sales soared, achieving 962,000 units, 1.233 million units, and 1.881 million units respectively, nearly doubling in three years. Chery has cumulatively exported 3.9 million vehicles, maintaining its position as the number one exporter of Chinese brand passenger cars for 21 consecutive years. In 2023, one out of every three passenger cars exported from China was a Chery. Entering 2024, Chery Group accelerates its pace, with sales surpassing 1.1 million vehicles in the first half of the year, a year-on-year increase of 48.4%, setting a new historical record. Chery Group is the only company in the entire industry to achieve "dual growth" in both new energy vehicles and fuel vehicles, as well as in domestic and overseas markets. Source: Anhui Daily Riots have continued across the UK through Monday night, with several cities reporting violence and arrests by police. The UK government officials are examining the role of foreign players in these riots read more The wave of violent unrest and disorder across various parts of the United Kingdom continued unabated through Monday night as police faced attacks in Belfast, Darlington, and Plymouth. The disturbances have raised significant concerns about the potential involvement of foreign entities in fuelling the unrest through disinformation. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer held an emergency Cobra meeting before he announced the deployment of a standing army of specialist officers to tackle the disorder. A Downing Street spokesperson clarified that there are no plans for military involvement but highlighted efforts to work with social media companies to remove misinformation and disinformation. Starmer rejected calls for Parliament to be recalled from its summer recess. Advertisement The Northern Ireland Assembly has been recalled early following violent protests in Belfast. Starmer stressed the importance of stopping the disorder and ensuring swift criminal sanctions. Foreign disinformation concerns The British government is investigating the role of foreign states in amplifying online disinformation that has contributed to the unrest. Reuters has quoted Jacob Davey from the Institute of Strategic Dialogue as saying that there has been a significant impact of online disinformation and the role of social media algorithms in spreading false information. Elon Musks comments on X about the unrest, suggesting civil war is inevitable, have drawn criticism from Downing Street, which accused him of amplifying foreign state actors misinformation. Former head of counter-terrorism at the Metropolitan Police, Neil Basu, also expressed concern that some of the rioting had crossed into terrorism. The governments investigation into foreign influence remains ongoing, with a focus on the role of social media platforms in spreading disinformation. Unrest spreads and police under attack In Plymouth, six individuals were arrested while several officers sustained minor injuries, according to Devon and Cornwall Police, BBC reported. In South Belfast, riot officers were targeted with stones and petrol bombs in an area close to a supermarket that had been set ablaze over the weekend. In Plymouth, the situation turned violent in the evening, resulting in damage to a police van and injuries to several officers during a far-right demonstration and a counter-protest. Specialist officers were deployed to manage the crowds. Advertisement In South Belfast, riot teams were deployed following an anti-immigration protest. Businesses were damaged, and police were stood down just after midnight. Earlier, a vigil was held in Southport for the victims of a mass stabbing last week, which ignited the unrest. Nearly 400 people have been arrested since the riots began. Southport memorial and arrests The BBC report said that hundreds of people in Southport attended a peaceful memorial for Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, the victims of the stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club. Children blew bubbles, and others left flowers and heart-shaped balloons in remembrance. Merseyside Police reported that one child involved in the incident remained in hospital, but other patients had been discharged. Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, a 17-year-old from Banks in Lancashire, has been charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. Advertisement Rumours behind riots Police believe the riots and unrest across the UK were exacerbated by rumours that the suspect was a Muslim asylum seeker. Over the weekend, Prime Minister Starmer condemned the riots as far-right thuggery and pledged to intensify legal measures to address the violence. In Birmingham, disturbances occurred in Bordesley Green after false reports of a far-right march. Palestinian flags were waved, and anti-English Defence League chants were heard. A group of youths later attacked vehicles and a pub. West Midlands Police are investigating reports of an assault and criminal damage. Durham Constabulary reported an 18-year-old mans arrest following a violent disorder in Darlington, where groups of males engaged in serious violence, including throwing bricks at officers. Advertisement Since the rioting began, the UK police have arrested more than 375 people. The National Police Chiefs Council said, BBC reported, that police are working around the clock to identify and arrest more individuals. The number of wounded soldiers is currently unknown. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have been briefed on the incident read more This picture taken on July 8, 2021 shows a view of the Ain al-Assad air base hosting US forces in Iraq in the western Anbar province. AFP A rocket attack on the Ain al-Assad base in western Iraq injured several US personnel on Monday (Sugust 5), officials reported, as regional tensions escalate with an anticipated Iranian counterattack on Israel. The attack marks the latest in a series of assaults targeting the base, which hosts US troops and coalition forces involved in operations against the Islamic State. There was a suspected rocket attack today against US and coalition forces said a US defence spokesperson. Initial indications are that several US personnel were injured. Advertisement The spokesperson added that base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment and will provide updates as more information becomes available. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have been briefed on the incident, the White House stated. They discussed the steps we are taking to defend our forces and respond to any attack against our personnel in a manner and place of our choosing, the statement read. President Joe Biden, too, posted about the same on X (formerly Twitter). Earlier, @VP and I were briefed in the Situation Room on developments in the Middle East. We received updates on threats posed by Iran and its proxies, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate regional tensions, and preparations to support Israel should it be attacked again. We also pic.twitter.com/kbRcVkW3ex President Biden (@POTUS) August 5, 2024 Earlier Monday, Iraqi security officials confirmed the attack, but no group has claimed responsibility. An Iraqi military source indicated that multiple rockets were fired at the base, with some landing inside the facility and another striking a nearby village without causing damage. A commander from a pro-Iran armed group told AFP that at least two rockets targeted the base, though did not specify who was responsible for the attack. The latest attack comes amid growing concerns of potential retaliation by Iran and its allies against Israel, following the recent killing of key Hamas and Hezbollah figures in strikes attributed to or claimed by Israel. Advertisement With inputs from agencies The US government has ordered non-emergency diplomats and their families to leave Bangladesh following the recent ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid massive protests. The State Departments precautionary measure comes as the embassy remains operational at a reduced capacity, and the military prepares to establish an interim government read more The United States government said Tuesday that it had ordered non-emergency personnel to leave Bangladesh as a precaution after mass protests ousted longtime ruler Sheikh Hasina. The State Department said that all non-emergency diplomats and other personnel as well as their family members had been ordered to leave as of Monday, although the US embassy in Dhaka remains open at limited capacity. The United States had last month warned citizens not to travel to Bangladesh, citing the risk of civil unrest, crime and terrorism. Advertisement Prime Minister Hasina, who had been in power since 2009, fled Monday after mass protests initially spurred by anger over job quotas swelled into a movement to oust her. Hundreds of people were killed as security forces sought to quell the unrest. The United States on Monday praised the role of the military, pointing to reports that it resisted Hasinas calls to continue using force. The Bangladesh military has said that it will set up an interim government. Venezuelas Attorney General announced a criminal investigation into opposition leaders Edmundo Gonzalez and Maria Corina Machado. The probe follows their call for the military to withdraw support for President Nicolas Maduro and cease repressing protesters. The opposition claims a landslide election victory, which the government disputes amidst escalating violence read more Opposition presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez, right, and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado join hands during a press conference the day after the election in Caracas, Venezuela, Monday, July 29, 2024. AP Venezuelas top prosecutor on Monday (August 5) announced a criminal investigation against the oppositions presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez and its leader Maria Corina Machado over their call on the armed forces to abandon their support for President Nicolas Maduro and to stop repressing demonstrators. Attorney General Tarek William Saabs statement tied the investigation directly to a written appeal the two members of the opposition sent hours earlier about Maduro and the demonstrators who have come out in force to defend their votes in the July 28 election. Advertisement Saab, in a written announcement posted on the social media site X, said the duo falsely announced a winner of the presidential election other than the one proclaimed by the National Electoral Council, the only body qualified to do so" and they openly incited police and military officials to disobey the laws. Gonzalezs and Machados written appeal shows the alleged commission of various crimes including usurpation of functions, dissemination of false information to cause fear and conspiracy, Saab said. The armed forces are traditionally the arbiter of political disputes in Venezuela. But theyve shown no signs of ditching Maduro even in the face of credible evidence presented by the opposition that it trounced the self-proclaimed socialist at the polls by a more than 2-to-1 margin. In Venezuela, protesters demonstrate against the official election results declaring President Nicolas Maduro won reelection. Source: AP. Gonzalez and Machado called on rank and file members of the security forces to rethink their loyalty to Maduro. We appeal to the conscience of the military and police to put themselves on the side of the people and their families, the two wrote in a long message. We won this election without any doubt. It was an electoral avalanche, the two continued. Now its up to all of us to respect the voice of the people. Authorities have declared Maduro the victor in last Sundays election but have yet to produce voting tallies to prove he won. The opposition claims to have collected records from more than 80% of the 30,000 polling booths nationwide showing it won. Advertisement Maduro announced Saturday that the government has arrested 2,000 opponents and at a rally in Caracas he pledged to detain more people and send them to prison. The post-electoral uprising has also claimed at least 11 lives, according to Foro Penal, a Caracas-based human rights group. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced Saturday that the government has arrested 2,000 opponents and at a rally in Caracas. File image/AP The Venezuela-based human rights organization Provea, in a report issued Monday analyzing the post-election climate, concluded that the governments response in silencing peoples discontent has been through the disproportionate use of force that has resulted in the deaths of protesters and the open coordinated action between security forces and groups of armed civilians in favor of Nicolas Maduro to calm the protests" which has led to an increase in arbitrary arrests. Advertisement The organization reported that based on figures announced by the Attorney Generals Office last week, the number of arrests against real or perceived government opponents is equivalent to about 42% of the total number of arbitrary arrests recorded by Provea between April and August 2017, the most important cycle of protests in the country since 1989. Gonzalez and Machado in their missive called on Venezuelans with family members serving in the security forces to urge their loved ones not to attack protesters and not obey illegal orders. It said it would offer guarantees to soldiers who follow the constitution even while promising there would be no impunity for those behind abuses and following illegal orders. Advertisement Both Gonzalez, a former diplomat, and Machado who was barred by the government from running have gone into hiding, saying they fear they will be arrested or killed. Maduro and his cadres have threatened to lock them both up. As Venezuelans fight Maduro on the streets, pressure is also building internationally for the Venezuelan government to publish the full breakdown of the electoral results. But so far, Maduro has instead asked the countrys supreme court which like all institutions in Venezuela is packed with loyalists to review any claims of irregularities. Respect for popular sovereignty is what moves us to defend the transparency of the (election) results," Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Monday in a press conference alongside fellow leftist President Gabriel Boric of Chile. Advertisement Boric, who cast doubt on Maduros victory claim in an unexpectedly strong statement within hours of Venezuelas July 28 election, told reporters that he and Lula discussed the situation in Venezuela on Monday, without elaborating. The leaders did not take questions and their carefully worded statements signaled how leftist leaders in the region are gingerly trying to show respect for Venezuelas sovereignty while voicing doubts about the official results. A few of Maduros staunch allies including Russia, China and Cuba have applauded his victory. On Monday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held a telephone call with Maduro and reiterated his congratulations and condemned any foreign interference in Venezuelas internal affairs, Pezeshkians office said. Protests by anti-Islam and anti-immigration groups then spread to other towns and cities across Britain, with mosques and hotels housing migrants targeted, leading to violent clashes with police read more Smoke billows from a fire started by protesters as riot police stand guard after disturbances near the Southport Islamic Society Mosque in Southport, northwest England, a day after a deadly child knife attack. AFP The British government said on Monday officials were examining the role foreign states had played in amplifying disinformation online which had helped fuel violent protests, while warning social media firms they had to do more to stop it. Trouble flared last week following the murder of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed event in Southport, a seaside town in northern England, after false messaging on social media wrongly identified the suspected killer as an Islamist migrant. Advertisement Protests by anti-Islam and anti-immigration groups then spread to other towns and cities across Britain, with mosques and hotels housing migrants targeted, leading to violent clashes with police. Jacob Davey, Director of Policy and Research at the Institute of Strategic Dialogue (ISD), said the flood of online disinformation and the role of social media firms themselves had been key. I dont think we can underestimate how central the spread of this information is to the horrific events of the weekend, he told Reuters. In response, the government, which has for years accused countries such as Russia of seeking to sow discord, has said it was looking to see how much impact foreign states had had in promoting the false messages. We have seen bot activity online, much of which may well be amplified or have the involvement of state actors, amplifying some of the disinformation and misinformation that weve seen, a spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer told reporters. It is clearly something that is being looked at. Elon Musk, the owner of X, has also weighed in. Responding to a post on X that blamed mass migration and open borders for the disorder in Britain, he wrote: Civil war is inevitable. Davey said disinformation was spread not just by those seeking to cause trouble but by the social media platforms themselves because of their business models algorithms which are set up to amplify a narrative online. Advertisement You saw that in the trending in the UK topics, you saw that disinformation cropping up under searches for Southport That business model side of things is really important. Disinformation was also pushed by high profile anti-immigrant activists. Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known by the pseudonym Tommy Robinson and previously the leader of the defunct anti-Islam English Defence League, has been blamed by media for spreading misinformation on X. He had been banned from the platform in 2018, over the production of hateful content according to media reports at the time, but was reinstated after it was bought by Musk. Platform for hate Britain brought in a new Online Safety Act last year to tackle such issues as child sexual abuse and promoting suicide, but Professor Matthew Feldman, a specialist on right-wing extremism at the University of York, said it may not help in this situation. Advertisement It did not appear to cover online incitement to offline criminality or disorder, he said. Feldman said far-right groups were less organised than they had been more than a decade ago when the likes of the British National Party could boast thousands of members. Now no organisation had more than a few hundred. Despite that, they are highly visible. Modern technology was being exploited by extremists and influencers to capture attention, he said. Nor had the trouble come out of nowhere, said the ISDs Davey: there had been unrest outside migrant centres, disorder at last years Remembrance Day events, and thousands of people out in central London a few weeks ago to support Yaxley-Lennon. Advertisement I think that this is really the accumulation of a much longer process whereby weve seen extremist groups become more confident, he said. In the ongoing political crisis of Bangladesh, student leaders are calling for Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to lead a caretaker government following Sheikh Hasinas resignation and flight. Meanwhile, Hasina faces further complications as the US revokes her visa, and her quest for asylum in Europe encounters challenges read more People wave a Bangladesh flag as they climb a structure at Ganabhaban, the Prime Minister's residence, after the resignation of the Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka, Bangladesh, August 5. REUTERS On Tuesday, students in Bangladesh called for Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to lead a caretaker government following the dramatic fall of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hasina, who had been in power since 2009, fled the country on Monday after intense public protests over a controversial job quota system. The demonstrations, which resulted in hundreds of deaths, forced Hasina to leave aboard a military helicopter as the armed forces took control. In response to the unrest, the Bangladesh Army has announced plans to form an interim government, with Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman stating it was time to end the violence. Advertisement The president has dissolved parliament, meeting one of the major demands from student leaders and the opposition Bangladesh National Party (BNP), which has called for elections within three months. Student leaders are advocating for Yunus, an 84-year-old microfinance pioneer, to head the interim government. The military has begun reshuffling top generals, including the removal of Ziaul Ahsan, a commander of the Rapid Action Battalion, and has released former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia from house arrest. The capital, Dhaka, witnessed a mix of peace and chaos. Traffic and businesses resumed normal operations, and international flights began to operate again. However, government offices remained largely closed following a day of violent protests that resulted in at least 122 deaths. Protesters celebrated the militarys takeover, with some storming and looting Hasinas residence. The unrest, which began over job quota disputes, escalated into widespread calls for Hasinas resignation and led to significant destruction, including attacks on Hasinas allies and property owned by Hindus, a minority group perceived as aligned with her government. The violence also saw attacks on police officers and key facilities. A prison break in northern Sherpur district resulted in the escape of all 518 inmates. The European Union has expressed deep concern over the attacks on religious and ethnic minorities. Political prisoners, who were detained under Hasinas rule, were also freed amidst the unrest. The fate of Hasina, now in India, remains uncertain as she faces potential challenges in her efforts to seek asylum in London. Advertisement In an additional update, sources close to the opposition report that the United States has revoked Sheikh Hasinas visa. She is currently at Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad, India. Hasina is exploring asylum options in Europe, but the UK has reportedly declined to offer her refuge. Her sister, Rehana, a UK citizen, is expected to travel to the UK soon. The new military-backed government faces the significant task of restoring stability and rebuilding democracy in Bangladesh, which has been deeply affected by the recent turmoil. Where will Sheikh Hasina settle down in what seems like a post-Bangladesh future for the toppled prime minister? Answers to this question are closely guarded by the family. But we may have a clue read more Sheikh Hasina, the toppled Bangladesh prime minister, headed to India on Monday afternoon when it became clear that her government would fall and her safety was not guaranteed in the country she had been ruling for 15 years in the face of a violent youth agitation, backed by her rivals and the Army. Bangladesh media has reported quoting sources close to Hasina, who landed at an Indian Air Force base at Hindon near Delhi, that she would not be staying in India for long. Her next stop or a home in exile is likely to be known to the public over the next few days, Bangladesh media reported. Speculation has it that she has explored a few options in Europe. Media reports initially suggested Finland as an option. But most reports suggested that Hasina could see asylum in the UK and stay in London. Advertisement Hasinas sister Rehana is a British citizen Sheikh Hasinas decision, if and when happens, to choose London as a refuge is deeply intertwined with her familial connections, especially through her sister, Sheikh Rehana. A British citizen, Rehana has been a steadfast pillar of support for Hasina. Both sisters survived the tragic 1975 massacre that saw the assassination of their father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of the Nation in Bangladesh. They were in Germany at the time. Later, they came to Delhi. Rehanas presence in the UK offers a sanctuary steeped in family history and mutual support. Known for her modesty and avoidance of pomp, Rehana has made significant contributions to Bangladeshs socio-economic advancements, often working in silence, during the multiple terms that Hasina had as the Bangladesh prime minister. Rehanas influence extends to her children, who have been nurtured with a profound socio-political intellect, mirroring the legacy of their grandfather. Hasinas niece is a Starmer minister Rehanas daughter Tulip Siddiq is an MP in the UK House of Commons and Junior Minister in the Starmer government. Appointed City Minister in July, Siddiq oversees the financial services sector, a critical portfolio given Londons status as a global financial hub. Her involvement in Labours policies for the financial industry since 2021 has earned her this position, signalling that Siddiq enjoys the confidence of the UK prime minister, Keir Starmer. Siddiq represents a significant political foothold for the Hasina family in the UK. As a Member of Parliament for Hampstead and Kilburn since 2015, and now a junior minister in Keir Starmers government, Siddiqs stature in the UK politics offers the comfort of safety, the absence of which in the final moments of the youth protest in Bangladesh forced Hasina to flee the country with her sister. Advertisement This familial connection provides Hasina with a secure and politically advantageous environment in the UK, further incentivising her choice of London as an exile destination. The UK has a liberal asylum policy for politicians The United Kingdoms liberal asylum policy for politicians adds another layer of appeal for Sheikh Hasinas relocation to London. The UK has historically been a haven for political figures seeking refuge from persecution. The UK Home Office decides the cases of political asylum under the Refugee Convention and the Immigration Rules that have been invoked favourably for top political leaders from all parts of the world. The policy is grounded in principles that protect individuals facing political persecution, ensuring their safety and offering them a chance to rebuild their lives. Advertisement Given the political turmoil in Bangladesh, the UKs asylum policy presents a reliable option for Hasina, who might face persecution from her political adversaries. This liberal stance aligns with Hasinas need for a secure and stable environment away from the immediate reach of her political rivals. Why not India Too close to home Despite Indias geographical proximity and historical ties with Bangladesh, it is not an ideal choice for Hasina. Indias close physical and political proximity carries the risk of becoming embroiled in Bangladeshs internal politics. Any asylum granted to Hasina by India could be perceived as siding with one political faction, potentially straining diplomatic relations with the subsequent government in Bangladesh. Such an arrangement could lead to allegations of interference in domestic affairs, a scenario both countries would prefer to avoid. Indias proximity and the potential for diplomatic complications render it an unsuitable refuge for Hasina. Advertisement There is another problem with Hasina staying in India for long. In most likelihood, the next Bangladesh government would be headed by a Hasina rival, with Noble Laureate economist Muhammad Yunus as chief adviser. Hours after Hasina was forced out of power and the country, her arch-rival Khaleda Zia was released. She had been serving sentences in corruption cases. Yunus and Hasina have had a long political feud. Hasina has publicly criticised Yunus accusing him of using his influence in the West to target her and her governments economic policies in Bangladesh. Yunus has welcomed the exit of Hasina saying, This is Bangladeshs second liberation. Advertisement Liberation in Bangladesh refers to its struggle for independence from Pakistan in 1971 after Mujibur Rahman was denied prime ministers office despite winning the election. The political struggle is known as the War of Liberation, which forced millions to seek refuge in India, creating a refugee crisis. Ultimately, India sent its military to deal with the situation, leading to the creation of Bangladesh. As history takes a full circle in Bangladesh and the daughter of its freedom struggle hero stands ousted from her office and country, there are concerns that the current chaos may see increased attacks on Hindu minority population in Bangladesh, potentially creating another mass migration situation. India has already increased its vigil along the Bangladesh border. Hasinas longer stay might be a provocation for Islamist groups, which Hasina had dealt with sternly, to target Hindus with the aim to drive them out of Bangladesh. Why not the US despite son being there Sheikh Hasinas son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, resides in the United States. But she might not opt to reside in the US as her strained relationship with the Biden administration makes the country an unfavourable option. Hasina has in the past accused the US of attempting to destabilise her government. The US, too, has pricked her time and again. The State Departments call for peaceful protests in Bangladesh and its criticisms of the Awami League governments handling of elections have strained ties. The Biden administration has been critical of Hasinas governance style, accusing it of violating human rights. This makes the US a less welcoming refuge. Joy runs a US-based firm, Wazed Consulting Inc, named after their family name, and is married to American citizen Kristine Ann Overmire. Yet, it is likely that Joys established presence in the US, the diplomatic friction between the two governments would dissuade Hasina from seeking asylum there. Sheikh Hasinas choice of London as a potential refuge looks shaped by a confluence of personal, familial, and political factors. Her sister Rehanas British citizenship and enduring support, coupled with her niece Tulip Siddiqs prominent political role in the UK, provide a secure and influential environment. The UKs liberal asylum policies offer additional security, while the complexities of seeking refuge in India or the US make those options less viable. As Hasina navigates this new phase, London stands out as a strategic choice for her and her future not necessarily in politics. Joy has said in various interviews that Hasina would not return to Bangladesh to pursue politics as she is disappointed with the way youths turned against her. Google was found to have acted illegally to maintain a monopoly in online search, according to a ruling by Judge Amit P. Mehta of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. This landmark decision could significantly impact how tech giants operate in the modern internet era. In a detailed 286-page ruling, Judge Mehta highlighted Googles abuse of its monopoly over the search business. He pointed out that Googles distribution agreements effectively blocked competitors from entering the market, impairing their ability to compete. Payments and Agreements The ruling noted that Google paid $26 billion to make its search engine the default option on smartphones and web browsers. This practice has prevented other competitors from gaining a foothold in the market. The Justice Department and several states had sued Google, accusing it of cementing its dominance by paying companies like Apple and Samsung billions of dollars annually to automatically handle search queries on their devices. Advertising Market Impact Judge Mehta emphasized that Googles monopolizing distribution on phones and browsers allowed it to raise online advertising prices without consequences. He noted that Googles monopoly power, upheld by exclusive distribution agreements, has allowed the company to raise text ad prices without facing any meaningful competitive constraints. Despite Googles arguments, evidence showed that the companys monopoly in search text ads allowed it to drive up prices significantly. Government and Legal Reactions U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland hailed the ruling as a historic win for the American people, emphasizing that no company is above the law. Federal antitrust regulators have also filed lawsuits against other Big Tech companies, including Meta Platforms, Amazon, and Apple, accusing them of operating unlawful monopolies. Financial Impact and Market Share Prosecutors highlighted that Google typically pays more than $10 billion annually to secure its position as the default search engine, which has helped it maintain a significant market share. Judge Mehta noted that Googles market share in general search increased from about 80% in 2009 to 90% by 2020. By contrast, Bing holds less than 6% market share. The ruling indicated that Googles payments to companies like Apple, to secure default positions on browsers, have prevented meaningful competition. Future Actions and Potential Remedies The Justice Department has not yet specified the changes it will seek, but potential remedies could include separating Alphabets search business, unwinding exclusive deals, or requiring Google to license its search index; the next trial phase will determine these remedies. Judge Mehtas Conclusion Judge Mehta concluded that Googles position as the default search engine is exceptionally valuable real estate. The decision underscores Googles significant payments to maintain this position, raising concerns about the feasibility of displacing Google in the market. Mehtas decision is viewed as measured and balanced, likely to withstand appeals, and serves as a blueprint for future tech monopoly cases. Googles Defense Google plans to appeal the decision, maintaining that its success is due to offering superior products that consumers prefer. Googles lawyers argued that the company faces intense competition from various platforms and that its market share results from creating valuable services for users. Next Steps The next antitrust trial involving the DOJ and Google is scheduled to start on September 9th in Virginia. This trial will examine whether Google has monopolized digital advertising technology. This ruling is the first in a series of tech monopoly cases, setting a precedent for future antitrust actions and shaping the regulatory landscape for Google and other Big Tech companies. Source | Via Specs For An E8JL Cylinder Head? I'm rebuilding one of my boat motors, a 351W, vintage roughly 1989. It came with obscure E8JL heads. One was damaged beyond repair, so I had to scour the internet for a replacement. Settled on Clearwater Cylinder Heads in Florida.Anyway I looked at what they sent this morning, and it's an E7TE. A typical automotive head for the era.A quick call to Clearwater was met with hostility. Apparently the different casting numbers weren't enough to elicit the guy's interest. He kept asking "what's different" about them. As if I can size up a cylinder head's specs with the old calibrated eyeball. ********As I was typing this last sentence, the manager I originally spoke to when I ordered the head got back to me and said there shouldn't be any functional difference. The head they sent had been fitted with marine-grade valves, etc, and was their approved substitute for an E8.Hmm. Well the exhaust runners are still a different shape. What do you guys think? The E7 is on the right. Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of Trinity Episcopal Church in this captivating tour given by Reverend Jimmy Abbott. Join J.R., Lisa, Erika, and Reverend Jimmy in uncovering the layers of history, from its founding in 1841 to its role in wartime and natural disasters. Putin's welcome ends speculation around true identity of Pablo Gonzalez By Graham Keeley August 05, 2024 When Pablo Gonzalez stepped off a plane to be greeted by Vladmir Putin last week it appeared to confirm suspicions that he was indeed a Russian spy who had used the cover of a journalist to gather intelligence. For the past 2A years, Gonzalez has been in a maximum-security jail in Poland, accused of spying for Russia. On Thursday, he was part of a historic prisoner swap in which the U.S. and allies secured the release of 16 journalists and rights activists in return for eight people requested by the Kremlin. Putin addressed Gonzalez and others who arrived in Moscow, including Russian hit man Vadim Krasikov, who was jailed in Germany for murder. "I want to thank you for being faithful to your oath, to your duty and to your country, which has not forgotten you," Putin said. The Russian president's words laid to rest questions around who Gonzalez really is. Supporters had earlier cast doubt on Poland's accusations. But some investigative journalists a and authorities a said evidence showed he was a part of the Russian Main Intelligence Directorate, or GRU. Poland's secret service, without providing evidence, said that Gonzalez used his role as a journalist as a cover for espionage. He denied all accusations. Gonzalez, who has dual Russian nationality, was born Pavel Rubtsov in 1982, in Soviet-era Moscow. His family left Spain after the Spanish Civil War to seek refuge in Russia. At the age of nine, he went to live in Spain with his mother after his parents divorced. There he received the name Pablo Gonzalez Yague. He went into journalism and worked for Spanish outlets PAblico, La Sexta and Gara, a Basque nationalist newspaper. He worked briefly as a freelancer for Voice of America in 2020 and 2021, and the Spanish news agency EFE. Spanish secret services sources, interviewed by VOA, said they believed the shaven-headed, 42-year-old was a Russian intelligence operative. Poland and Richard Moore, the head of Britain's foreign intelligence service MI6, have also said he was a spy. Poland described Rubstov as a "GRU officer" arrested while "carrying out intelligence tasks in Europe." And Moore, at a 2022 forum, said he was an "illegal" arrested after "masquerading as a Spanish journalist." In the intelligence community, the term "illegal" refers to spies who operate under non-official cover, meaning that they do not have diplomatic immunity. "[Gonzalez] was trying to go into Ukraine to be part of their destabilizing efforts there," Moore said. However, Gonzalez's lawyer, Gonzalo Boye, told VOA Sunday that Gonzalez is not a spy and noted that Poland never charged his client. "Throughout these 2A years, the Spanish authorities have limited themselves to publicly supporting Pablo's situation and unofficially supporting Poland's version of the accusation," he told VOA. "In reality, we believe that the Poles have been used by the Spanish secret services because people tend to forget that Pablo was first interrogated in Ukraine at the end of 2022 in the presence of Spanish agents, and at the same time, Spanish agents went to his wife and mother's houses in Spain to tell them he was a spy," Boye said. Boye noted the case of Evan Gershkovich, the Wall Street Journal reporter imprisoned on espionage charges, who was freed by Russia as part of the swap and welcomed home by U.S. President Joe Biden. "Nobody in the USA has questioned that Gershkovich was simply a journalist. We think that neither Gershkovich nor Pablo Gonzalez are spies, but journalists trapped in a new kind of Cold War, where truth matters little," Boye said. Gershkovich, his outlet and the U.S. all denied Russia's accusations against the journalist, who was arrested while on assignment for the Journal in March 2023. Boye has acted as a lawyer for Edward Snowden and Carles Puigdemont. The latter is the fugitive former Catalan independence leader wanted in Spain on charges of embezzlement and misuse of public funds. Puigdemont denies the charges. And he has faced legal action himself. Boye was convicted in a trial involving separatist movement ETA, and more recently been on trial in a case viewed by some as retaliatory for his work on the Catalan independence trial. Some media watchdogs that campaigned for Gonzalez during his captivity welcomed his release from harsh conditions. "He was held in Poland for more than two years on charges of spying for Russia without any evidence of the allegations against him being made public," the International Journalists' Federation said in a statement. Miguel Angel Noceda, president of the Spanish Journalists' Associations, in a statement noted that, without "going into whether he is innocent or guilty," the situation GonzAlez was held in was inhumane, "with long periods of family isolation and prison confinement." Gonzalez was arrested Feb. 28, 2022, when crossing from Poland to Ukraine, where he had been reporting on the start of the Russian invasion. Ukrainian secret service officials had earlier detained him and accused him of spying for Russia, which he denied. His lawyer, Boye, previously told VOA that Gonzalez had been reporting in the Donbas area for Spanish newspapers and TV. Agentstvo, an independent Russian online media outlet, published a report in 2023 saying GonzAlez was a Russian military secret service agent who infiltrated dissident circles. The news site based its report on records from Gonzalez's mobile phone and dissident contacts, saying he compiled reports on people, including one of those freed by Russia in last week's deal. In response, the Free Pablo Gonzalez Association, which campaigned on behalf of the journalist, said the accusations did not respect his right to innocence until proven guilty. Warsaw-based reporters who had spent time with Gonzalez described him to The Associated Press as outgoing, someone who liked to drink beer and sing karaoke. Others noted he appeared to be better off than the average freelancer. Among the outlets Gonzalez contributed to is VOA. Emily Webb, a spokesperson for the network, said that Gonzalez worked on a few stories "over a relatively short period of time." "As a freelancer who provided content to a number of media outlets, his services were provided through a third-party company used by news organizations around the world," Webb said. "At no time did he have any access to VOA systems or credentials. VOA, like many news organizations, occasionally uses freelancers. He was one. As soon as we learned of the accusations, we removed his content." One person pleased that Gonzalez was freed is his Spanish wife, Oihana Goiriena. She said that she and the couple's three children have spoken to her husband by telephone. "It has been fabulous! We are not going to go to Moscow. We will wait until he comes back home," she told VOA. She declined to comment on allegations her husband was a spy. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address USARJ activates 765th TTB as only unit of its kind stationed overseas By Sean Kimmons, U.S. Army Garrison Japan Public Affairs August 4, 2024 CAMP ZAMA, Japan -- The 35th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion cased its unit colors during a ceremony here Wednesday as it takes on a new role to support U.S. Army Japan watercraft and improve integration and interoperability with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force in the Indo-Pacific region. More than 100 people attended the reflagging ceremony inside Kizuna Hall to witness the 35th CSSB officially transition to the 765th Transportation (Terminal) Battalion. "In the grand narration of the Army's history, today marks a significant chapter where we honor a legacy of exceptional commitment and usher in a new era of strategic prowess," said Col. Ned Holt, commander of the 10th Support Group. "We stand at the crossroads of history and innovation," he added, "as we transition from the proven excellence of the 35th CSSB to the revitalized vigor of the 765th." Holt, who hosted the ceremony, said that activating the 765th TTB in Japan will allow it to be uniquely positioned to provide essential maritime capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. "With our escalating demands on our transportation assets in the region, the 765th's ability to operate and maintain secure maritime lines of operations will enhance our readiness and sustainment operations," he said. "They will ensure that the United States Army remains agile, responsive and capable of meeting any challenge." Lt. Col. Erik Hansen, the battalion commander, said the ceremony signifies a major shift in the logistics mission here. "This ceremony really lets the community know, the Soldiers know, our partners in the region and our adversaries know that we have a commitment that will continue to evolve as new threats grow in the region," he said, "and we [will] measure our efforts to counter those threats with these new assets." To support its mission, the battalion has watercraft, such as logistics support vessels, landing craft utility vessels, maneuver support vessels and small tugboats. "I'm extremely proud and excited to be able to command not only the CSSB but also the transportation terminal battalion, which is an extremely unique organization in the Army," Hansen said. "It's one of only three that exists in the Army... and the only one outside the continental United States. It's just a really great time to be part of this organization." Hansen mentioned the battalion's watercraft have already conducted various missions in the region, and most recently in Australia, as it looks to extend the operational reach of the Army. "We provide a truly expeditionary capability to the commander," he said. "We can move to a fixed port area, establish ourselves, and operate rather independently to support the flow of troops and equipment into any location." Holt told the Soldiers in the audience that they shoulder the "immense responsibility" of upholding and advancing this critical capability. Before the unit's colors were cased, Holt highlighted the achievements of the 35th CSSB, such as its campaign streamer from World War II and an Army Superior Unit Award for its disaster relief mission following the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. "It has done everything it's been asked to do and more in this area," Holt said of the unit. Holt also noted the storied history of the 765th TTB that included deployments in WWII and the Korean and Vietnam wars, earning a total of 28 campaign credits. As the battalion's Soldiers prepare for their next missions, the colonel encouraged them to embrace the challenge with the same courage and dedication that their predecessors showed. "Let us move forward with determination and a deep commitment to our mission," he said. "Let the legacy of the 35th CSSB live on in the deeds of the 765th [TTB] as they forge a new path towards excellence and readiness." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 93 killed as Bangladesh protesters demand PM Hasina resign Iran Press TV Sunday, 04 August 2024 11:50 PM At least 93 people have been killed, including 14 police officers, and more than a thousand others injured in violent clashes between anti-government protesters and police in Bangladesh, in one of the deadliest days since demonstrations began about three weeks ago. Police on Sunday fired tear gas and threw stun grenades to disperse tens of thousands of protesters demanding the resignation of 76-year-old Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Demonstrations that began last month against civil service job quotas have escalated into some of the worst unrest of the 15-year rule of Hasina. Police as well as ruling party activists clashed with anti-government protesters in at least 20 districts on Sunday. Local media reports citing law enforcement officials suggested Sunday's toll may have surpassed 93 deaths, taking the total killed since protests began in July to at least 300. Police claimed that anti-government protesters attacked their officers, including storming a station in the northeastern town of Enayetpur. "The terrorists attacked the police station and killed 11 policemen," said Bijoy Basak, a deputy inspector general. Police and doctors at hospitals said at least 12 people were killed in the capital Dhaka, with several of the victims suffering bullet wounds, while 18 died in Bangladesh's northern district of Sirajganj. "The shocking violence in Bangladesh must stop," United Nations rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement. He expressed his concerns about further deaths ahead of a mass march on Dhaka planned for Monday. Demonstrations against the 56 percent quota system in public jobs started in the South Asian nation last month, prompting the government to close educational institutions across Bangladesh. As per the quota system, 30 percent of the 56 percent quotas in public jobs are allocated for the sons and grandsons of individuals who took part in Bangladesh's war of liberation against Pakistan in 1971. Bangladesh implemented its quota system in 1972 under the leadership of Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, who was the founding father and first president of the country. In 2018, the quotas were declared unlawful and eliminated. However, the decision was reversed on June 5, when the country's high court reinstated a quota that allocated 30 percent of government positions for the offspring of "freedom fighters." An appeal to this change is scheduled to be heard by the Supreme Court on August 7. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address CENTCOM Commander Praises Outgoing CJTF-OIR Commander for Phenomenal Work Supporting Fight Against ISIS U.S. Central Command Press Release | Aug. 5, 2024 USCENTCOM Aug. 5, 2024 Release Number 20240805-01 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE BAGHDAD, Iraq (Aug. 8, 2024) -- Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR), the military coalition to defat Daesh, completed a transfer of authority ceremony in Baghdad, Iraq, Aug. 5, 2024. During the ceremony, the responsibility of leading this unique organization transferred from U.S. Army Maj Gen. Joel "JB" Vowell to U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Kevin Leahy. "This ceremony symbolizes the unbroken chain of command, of ownership of this Coalition's mission, and responsibility for the men and women who come together from many nations, with one mission," said U.S. Army Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, Commander, U.S. Central Command. "It also represents this Coalition's enduring commitment to a shared vision of security and stability in Iraq and Syria." Gen. Kurilla also praised the phenomenal work the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Guardians, Coast Guardsmen, and civilians of CJTF-OIR have done over the past year, supporting our Iraqi partners in the fight against DAESH, including conducting or enabling more than 350 missions alongside our partners, while coordinating with the many law enforcement agencies, embassies, and civilian institutions working to bring stability to Iraq and Syria. "None of these things happen on their own. It takes leadership. JB Vowell provided that leadership. JB, thank you for your camaraderie, your professionalism, and, above all, your leadership," said Gen. Kurilla. "To lead the military operations of the world's largest coalition in the face of a determined and resourceful enemy, along with many other external headwinds, is no small feat." Gen. Kurilla continued, "Through it all, JB led. He led in hard times and in good. He led through dozens of transitions of his subordinate units. He led up, ensuring that his voice and his assessment was heard as he advocated for this Coalition and our Iraqi partners. And he led, as any good infantryman does, from the front. As Colin Powell said, 'leadership is the art of accomplishing more than the science of management says is possible'." Recently, the U.S. Senate confirmed Maj. Gen. Vowell for appointment to the grade of Lieutenant General and assignment as the Deputy Commanding General, United States Army Pacific, Fort Shafter, Hawaii. His relief, Maj. Gen. Leahy, most recently commanded Special Operations Command Central, where he oversaw the activities of all special operations forces throughout the Central Region. "I know Kevin well, and he knows this mission well," said Gen. Kurilla. "Kevin has worked with our Iraqi partners on many occasions and has spent much of his career deploying to the CENTCOM AOR with 5th Special Forces Group. I can't think of a better person to take this command. "We have come a long way since 2014, but we are still facing a determined enemy who seeks to undo the progress of the past decade. This has never been one nation's fight, and the Coalition remains committed to supporting the Government of Iraq. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address August 5, 2024 Transcript Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh Holds an Off-Camera, On-the-Record Press Briefing DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SABRINA SINGH: So, as we discussed late last week, US military forces continue to posture across the Middle East region to improve US force protection, to increase support for the defense of Israel, and to ensure the United States is prepared to respond to various contingencies. Secretary Austin spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant yesterday to reiterate the United States's ironclad support for Israel's security and self-defense against threats from Iran, Lebanese Hezbollah, the Houthis, and other Iranian backed terrorist groups. They discussed US force posture moves that the department is taking for defense and deterrence and reinforced the need to de-escalate broader tensions in the region, to include strong support for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal. Switching gears, earlier today the department and the Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of Niger announced that the withdrawal of US forces and assets from Air Base 201 in Agadez is complete. This effort began on May 19th following the mutual establishment of withdrawal conditions, and coordination will continue between US and Nigerian Armed Forces over the coming weeks to ensure the full withdrawal is complete as planned. US forces are still on track to meet the September 15th deadline of a full withdrawal from Niger. And switching gears to tomorrow, Secretary Austin and Secretary of State Blinken will co-host Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Richard Marles in Annapolis, Maryland for the 34th Australia-US Ministerial Consultations. The ministerial and related bilateral meetings will build on the commitments made during the official visit of the prime minister to the United States in October 2023 and last year's AUSMINs. Secretary Austin and Secretary Blinken look forward to strengthening our cooperation on the full range of global and regional issues and deepening the US-Australia alliance with their Australian counterparts. And finally, I'd like to take a moment to congratulate General Hokanson, the 29th chief of the National Guard Bureau and member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on his retirement last Friday after nearly four decades of service. General Hokanson graduated from the US Military Academy at West Point in 1986, spending most of the next ten years on active duty as an Army aviator. In 1995, Hokanson left active duty, joining the Oregon Army National Guard. Over the next three decades, Hokanson would amass more than 2,600 flight hours, including more than 50 combat flight hours as a command pilot. Hokanson served as the deputy commander of NORTHCOM, the vice chief of the National Guard Bureau, and finally as the 29th chief of the National Guard Bureau. We thank General Hokanson and his wife Kelly for their service to our nation and wish them all the best on his next chapter. And if you have a question, if you don't mind, we'll kick it over to Luis. Putting you on the spot, but if you have nothing? Q: I actually do have one. MS. SINGH: Okay, great. Q: If I stand, you can see me. MS. SINGH: Yeah. He's just so Q: I'm confused. In Niger, I thought that was today's announcement was a complete withdrawal. Was it only for the base. Is there still more to come? MS. SINGH: It was for the base. There's still some more work to be done to finalize the full withdrawal process. There's about, I'd say, less than two dozen folks still on the ground in Niger. But we're still on track to meet that September 15th deadline. Q: So, those two-dozen people will stay there until the 15th of September? MS. SINGH: We'll keep you updated as we have. If you know, if completed before September 15th, we'll let you know. But we're still on track to meet that September 15th deadline right now. There's still some administrative tasks that just need to be fully completed. And then once that's done, the withdrawal will be complete. Q: Great. And thank you. Q: Thank you. Can you tell us whether all of the military plus-ups in the Middle East have been completed? Were any other than land-based fighter jets, were any fighter jets moved off any of the ships, either the ARG or the carrier? Can you say? MS. SINGH: So, it wouldn't be thank you, Lita, for the question. Wouldn't be best practice to kind of give you a full lay down right now, so I don't really have an update on for you on where things are other than that what we have already said publicly from Friday, which is that we did commit additional assets to the region. And, you know, the I just won't get into, you know, where they are, if they're in position right now. But we will be ready to defend Israel if needed and, of course, to defend our forces there. Q: Can you at least say roughly the number of troops that are involved in the process? I believe that you all done that in the past. MS. SINGH: I can't right now, but I'll keep you updated if that changes. Q: OK. I'm just gonna pass on here for a second. MS. SINGH: Anyone? Yeah, Dan. Q: Thank you. Two questions. MS. SINGH: Sure. Q: One, can you give us any kind of naval update? I know we had carrier that was in the Gulf of Oman. It appeared maybe it would be coming farther west toward Israel. And then secondly, the announcement Friday night with Secretary Austin becoming the convening authority for the KSM trial and these other two kind of overturning the plea deal. Can you give us a sense for where that's going, how you see that progressing, whether we have hearings coming, and how he's going to manage that with his the rest of his duties? MS. SINGH: So, in terms of the convening authority, right now that that's an ongoing process, so I don't have much for you right now. That is back with the courts, so we'll keep you updated on that. But at this moment right now, I just don't have more for you. In terms of where the I think what you're referring to is where is the TR [USS Theodore Roosevelt], I would refer you to CENTCOM more or to speak to her movements. But as we did say on Friday, we are positioning assets to move closer to Israel should we need to come to the defense of Israel, so you should, you know, assume that she'll be moving closer to that direction. But I don't have her exact position right now. Hailey? Q: Thanks. Also on the plea deal, can you say, before Friday's statement, when did the secretary learn that the plea deal had been agreed to? And when was the last time that he was briefed on those cases? Was this has he been getting regular updates, or has it been several weeks or months since he got an update? What was the timeline? MS. SINGH: So, you have to so, just separating out your two questions, you have to remember that the convening authority is independent, so it's not like he was receiving regular updates. At the very beginning of the year, there was a set of policy principles that was presented to the department, which he rejected. That was at the very beginning of the year. But it's not something that he receives regular updates on, as it is, you know, independent, and as he shouldn't, as you know, not wanting to exert undue influence over an independent process. In terms of when did the secretary find out, July 31st, we were flying back from the Philippines, and I believe that was a Wednesday. That was the day that we all found out, when it was made public. Q: Okay. And then has he spoken to President Biden or Vice President Harris about these cases or about his decision to revoke the plea deal and become the convening authority, or retake that authority, I guess? MS. SINGH: Not to my knowledge. But, of course, we made that his decision to take back the authority public on Friday, but not to my knowledge on conversations with the White House. This was something that he decided on his own. Felicia? Q: Just wondering if you could give us a sense, I assume that Secretary Austin will be in this meeting at the White House later. Do you have any is there anything you can say about what he might I mean, I'm sure you don't want to, like, totally get ahead of it, but can you give us any sense of what to expect or what he might be going to say? MS. SINGH: He will be in the meeting later today at the White House. Certainly, wouldn't want to get ahead of a meeting with the president and other members of the National Security Council, so I'll just leave it at that. But I think you can expect that, of course, on the table for discussion is ongoing tensions within the Middle East. I'll just leave it at that. Idris. Q: Where is General Kurilla right now? MS. SINGH: I know that he's in the CENTCOM AOR, but I don't know Q: In the Middle East? MS. SINGH: In the Middle East, yeah. Q: OK. Is part of his trip and the broader Pentagon effort to coordinate with allies, and in a similar way you did pre-April 13? Is that an ongoing effort? Can you talk a bit about that? MS. SINGH: Yeah. So, as you can appreciate, just not going to speak to anything regarding any potential operations. But in terms of his travel to the region, I'd refer you to CENTCOM for more details on that. I don't have them, so I'd refer you to CENTCOM to speak to it. Well, Courtney, I have not forgotten about you. Q: On Niger, on the couple dozen people who are still there, can you say where they're located at this point? MS. SINGH: Yeah, they're located at the embassy. Q: At the embassy. And can you say any more about what they're going to be doing in the kind of next couple of weeks or to prepare for the withdrawal or MS. SINGH: Just administrative work in preparing for the completion of the withdrawal. I don't really have more details other than that. If you want more, I'd refer you to AFRICOM to speak to just more roles and responsibilities of what they're doing on a day to day. But it's mainly administrative. MS. SINGH: OK. Courtney? Q: The KSM. So, if it's going back to or the three of them, if the plea if it's going back to the court, does that mean that the there's no way forward for more plea agreements then, or is that that's over? There's no chance for the three of them to have a plea agreement? MS. SINGH: That's correct. The secretary has taken that decision off the table for plea agreements, or for what was presented. Q: What about the other two who were part of the plea agreements that didn't agree to this one? Are they now off the table for plea agreements as well? Because the statement only mentioned the three. MS. SINGH: The three? Let me take that question. Q: Okay. And then is I believe I may be wrong about this, but I think the general counsel has the authority to appoint a new convening authority to that case. Is that what's likely to happen here? I may be wrong about this because this is so unnecessarily confusing, this process the process. MS. SINGH: It is. Q: And especially throwing a wrench in it like this. MS. SINGH: Yeah. Q: So, is that what's likely to happen, or is Secretary Austin going to start traveling to get to oversee these as the Superior supreme commander? MS. SINGH: As I mentioned To Dan, right now the cases are back, you know, in the court. It's still early on. So, when we have more details, let us provide that for you. But right now, I just don't have a further update on things that you're asking. But we will get back to it. Q: Because it just seems like to make the decision to withdraw the plea or to revoke the plea agreement without a plan for how it moves forward seems that just doesn't seem like that would have been the case. There's gotta someone who knows how this is going to go forward. MS. SINGH: I think there are paths forward, but it's also an ongoing judicial process that I just don't know how much we or can speak to just yet. But when we have more, and certainly when I have more information, I will do my due diligence to make sure that you are kept informed on that, as I know this is of interest to many folks in this room. But I just don't have more right now on, you know, exactly how the next steps. Q: But to Courtney's question, does this preclude any plea agreement in the future? MS. SINGH: The secretary has withdrawn from pretrial agreements that were signed in those cases. Q: Right, that were signed. Does this preclude a future plea agreement? MS. SINGH: He wants to see these, I mean, in and I think let me just make sure that I have this, the statement. Q: No, I mean he MS. SINGH: No, I understand. Q: Does he go back to negotiations? MS. SINGH: Right. Exactly. Q: Or does he just want to take a look at it? MS. SINGH: He believes that the families and the American public deserve the opportunity to see military commission trials carried out in this case. So, he does if we can move to the trials. And it has been ongoing. It has been many, many years. But that is what he believes is the best course of action forward. Q: OK. MS. SINGH: Yeah. Q: So, sort of following off that point, he believes that the American public should I mean, we're talking about legal process that has taken decades and has been one of the most closed off and secretive processes on a base that is one of the most secretive and closed. I mean, square the circle here, like Secretary Austin believes the American people deserve all this stuff, but do we get to see these televised, and when? MS. SINGH: Well, this a case of such significance that the secretary felt it was appropriate for the authority to rest with him. So again, in terms of future trials, what that looks like, I don't have that for you. But obviously, this was a decision that was made on Friday, and as I committed to Courtney and Lita, as we have more details to share, I will share that with you. I just don't have that right now. Q: Can you also asksorry. Assuming there's a change in administration or even if there isn't, Secretary Austin isI'm assuming that that will then move to the next Secretary of defense or does the nextthe process forward is interesting here. Is there any chance that someone else could come in and allow for negotiations to restart under a new convening authority? How would that look? Or is literally the only way that this moves forward was at the trial, which is never going to happen? MS. SINGH: Yeah. So I think there's still a few unanswered questions that I understand folks want answers to. I don't have that right now. Q: Sorry. I didn't mean to interrupt. Is there anyone that can just walk us through the legal process, Sabrina? MS. SINGH: So as soon as we have more information to provide, I certainly will. If there's someone that is available and willing Q: I mean, just to walk us through, what is MS. SINGH: Yep. Understand. Understand. I will Q: Not what's going to happen, just MS. SINGH: I will certainly see if someone is available, but again, this is aI understand the frustration and I and I understand that I don't have all the answers for you right now. But as I get more, we will share it and if there's someone that can be made available, I will look into that. OK. Brad? Q: Yeah, just really quick on Niger. Did US troops leave any equipment behind, weapons, military equipment, anything when they left the bases? MS. SINGH: I'd refer you to AFRICOM to speak to that. Noah? Q: Thank you. I'm sorry if I missed this, but do we have a final cost on JLOTS yet? MS. SINGH: The initial cost that we had quoted, I think was $230 million. I don't have an updated cost for you right now. Some of the folks that had initially gone out on the JLOTS mission have been redeployed and have come back home. JLOTS is still in the process of being redeployed, so you might remember Vice-Admiral Cooper said that the cost of JLOTS is likely to come under that number, but I don't have the final, final for you yet as that redeployment is still ongoing. Q: So we'll know that when the redeployment is more settled? When will we actually know that? MS. SINGH: You'll know that when I have the number. Q: OK. Q: Hi. Thank you. You mentioned contingencies around Israel and Lebanon, and I know you have the capacity with the wasp [USS Wasp] there. Are you planning on evacuation of US citizens out of Lebanon? MS. SINGH: So we are a planning organization and as you've heard us say, we plan for a range of different contingencies. I'm certainly not going to go into details on every type of scenario and plan that has been laid out. But the ARG/MEU that's in the Eastern Med has a range of capabilities, to include other things other than an evacuation if needed. So I'll just leave it at that. Yeah. Q: A couple of questions on the KSM, and then I had a Middle East question. What was the secretary's initial reaction? You said the July 31st, you heard about it coming back. Was he shocked or whatever? And has he called any of the families? MS. SINGH: The secretary was certainly surprised, as we all were. And I think you have to remember throughout this entire process, this is not something that the secretary was consulted on or briefed. It was independent. And we were not aware that the prosecution or defense would enter the terms of the plea agreement. So I think when it came through on Wednesday is when we learned about it, and he was surprised. I don't have any calls to share or to read out to you on folks that he's spoken with, other than to say that on Friday you saw the memo that he issued and leave it at that. Q: OK. Middle East, a reality check. Do any of the assets you announced Friday, would they have any relevance if Iraq attack today tomorrow or Wednesday? You seem all weeks away. Can you give a reality check on that? And on the ARG/MEU, they had helicopters basically and Ospreys. They don't have combat capability, but what actually would be resonant now if Iran attacked in the next two or three days? MS. SINGH: A lot of hypotheticals that I just wouldn't get into and in terms of asking on timing, look, I don't have anything for you on that. Q: I'm not asking when Iran's going to attack, but what would be relevant now? What defense assets are in the region that could help them with missile defense, versus on the way in a week or two? MS. SINGH: So as you saw from the statement that that we released on Friday, the secretary has directed additional air assets to move to the region, along with a combination of destroyers and cruisers to move closer to Israel for the defense of Israel. Beyond that, I'm not going to get into more specifics. You're also going to have the TR eventually leave the CENTCOM AOR and Q: Eventually. MS. SINGH: the ABE [USS Abraham Lincoln] will come and backfill the TR. You are very familiar with the range of capabilities on a carrier strike group, part of a carrier strike group. So, I don't need to go into those details, but should Israel be attacked, the president, the secretary, have committed to come to the defense of Israel and of course we're postured to always protect our forces in the region as well. Q: I'm just trying to push back. The TR is in the Gulf of Oman. I mean, I'm not sure destroyers can attack missiles fired from Lebanon into Israel at that range. I mean MS. SINGH: Yeah, I'm just not going to get into more [inaudible]. Q: The fighter squadron, is that going to be arriving in the next day or two, because that's tangible? MS. SINGH: Appreciate the question, Tony, but I'm just not going to get into timelines. Thank you. Jared. Q: I don't know if you can answer this, but are the TR and the ABE expected overlap in the Eastern Mediterranean on the TR's way home? MS. SINGH: Look, I don't have a timeline for you right now, but the ABE will be backfilling, replacing the TR. So could there be overlap, there could be, but I don't have an exact timeline for you on when one's leaving and one's coming in. Q: Then kind of big picture, does the government have any indication that Iran and its proxies may avoid attacking or targeting US personnel and forces like they did in April during this retaliation? MS. SINGH: I really can't speak for Iran, so I refer you to them. Q: It's a pretty quick MS. SINGH: OK. Yeah. Q: Quick follow up. Do you believe an attack by Iran and its proxies is imminent, against Israel to be clear? MS. SINGH: I mean, all we can go off of, Idris, is the public statements that Iran has made. We certainly don't want to see that. We believe that the best way for tensions to calm in the region is for the ceasefire deal to be put in place to see American hostages come home. We don't want to see a wider regional conflict and that's why, over the course of time, I mean since October 8th, we have moved additional assets to the region to project a message of deterrence. We still believe that a wider regional war is not imminent. And yeah, we'll leave it at that. Q: And then have you raised alert levels for troops in Iraq and Syria? MS. SINGH: I'd refer you to CENTCOM to speak more on that. Kiely. Q: One more GTMO, keep the good times going. MS. SINGH: It's very unsatisfactory. I'm sorry. I know. I will do my best. Q: You said that the secretary, I mean, it was kind of surprise, didn't know that the council was putting in these plea deal agreements. He clearly knew there was some discussion about plea deals if he rejected some of the agreements ahead of time at the beginning of the year, like you said. So did he think about or consider or anything taking that convening authority then when he originally rejected some of the terms of the agreement? MS. SINGH: So there were not terms presented to him. It was policy principles, basically parameters that were presented up to the secretary, which he rejected. To your question of did he think about taking back his authority then, no. And the reason why is, this was an independent authority that was in charge of managing the case and he did not want to exert undue influence over a judicial process, but he did reject their parameters of what they had laid out. So that kind of leads to where we got to last week. Because he rejected those policy principles to begin with, he believes that the families, the these folks go on trial, knowing it has been a long process, but still, that is something that he believes strongly. Q: So, he had originally not wanted to take back authority because it was an independent process and he wanted to play out. MS. SINGH: Right. Q: Now he has decided it should no longer be an independent process and he needs to be more involved? MS. SINGH: Because, I mean, you have to remember, first, he established the convening authority to oversee the case. Taking back authority or influencing the case in either way is not something that he wanted to do. And frankly, we didn't know what type of agreement was going to happen if there was ever going to be one. And I think no one knew what was announced on Wednesday was something that both sides would have agreed to in the first place. I mean, this has been ongoing for many, many years. So he made the decision that when this announcement happened, that he needed to take back the authorities and that now it's back in the courts and he believes that there should be a trial. I know that this has been ongoing for a very, very long time. Many people here in this building have followed this, but that is where we are today. Q: So it's okay if it's independent, as long as they do what he wants them to do. That's pretty much what we're coming down to, right? MS. SINGH: No, I would actually say that he allowed the entire process to play out before he Q: Before he exerted his undue command influence over it. MS. SINGH: Before he influenced the process in any way. Q: Just to clarify, the policy parameters, who submitted those? Who made those recommendations? And I think I heard you say January, right? MS. SINGH: I did not say that. It was earlier this year. Q: OK. MS. SINGH: Let me see. Let me just take that question on who submitted them. Matt. Q: Thanks. On Iran, if Iran was to launch another large scale series of attacks like we saw in April, do you expect that to be telegraphed? Do you expect to see personnel and equipment being moved much like we saw in April, or do you assess that things are more or less still in place since April and so it might not get the same sort of forewarning? Can you speak to that at all? MS. SINGH: On Iran's assets? Q: Right. MS. SINGH: Yeah. No, I wouldn't speak to any intel, anything like that. Q: OK. MS. SINGH: OK. Anything else? All right. Thanks, everyone. https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/3862181/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address August 5, 2024 By David Vergun, DOD News U.S. Posturing Assets to Defend Israel, U.S. Forces in Middle East The Defense Department continues to move vessels and aircraft across the Middle East to improve U.S. force protection, increase the defense of Israel and ensure the United States can respond to a range of contingencies, said Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh at a press briefing today. The USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group will replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group, which is in the U.S. Central Command region, said a DOD press release on Aug. 2. According to the statement, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III ordered additional ballistic missile defense-capable cruisers and destroyers to the U.S. European Command and Centcom regions. He also ordered deployment of an additional fighter squadron to the Middle East to bolster defensive air support capability. "These posture adjustments add to the broad range of capabilities the U.S. military maintains in the region, including the USS Wasp amphibious ready group/Marine expeditionary unit operating in the eastern Mediterranean," the statement said. Austin spoke yesterday with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to reiterate that the U.S. has ironclad support for Israel's security and right to self-defense against threats from Iran, Lebanese Hezbollah, Houthis and other Iranian-backed terrorist groups, Singh said. "They discussed U.S. force posture moves that the department is taking for defense and deterrence and reinforced the need to de-escalate broader tensions in the region, to include strong support for a Gaza cease-fire and hostage-release deal," Singh said. Elsewhere, DOD and the Ministry of National Defense of Niger announced earlier today that the withdrawal of U.S. forces and assets from Air Base 201 in Agadez is complete, she said. This effort began on May 19 following the mutual establishment of withdrawal conditions. Coordination will continue between U.S. and Nigerien armed forces over the coming weeks to ensure the full withdrawal is complete as planned, she said. "U.S. forces are still on track to meet the Sept. 15 deadline of a full withdrawal from Niger," she said, noting that there are less than 24 U.S. military personnel still in the country. Separately, Singh noted that on Aug. 2, Austin signed a memo reserving for himself the authority to enter into pretrial agreements with those accused in the 9/11 military commission cases. As the superior convening authority, the secretary last week withdrew from the pretrial agreements that were signed in those cases, she noted. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kosovo: Statement by the Spokesperson on police operations against post offices in the north European External Action Service (EEAS) 05.08.2024 EEAS Press Team The European Union considers today's closure of nine Post of Serbia branches in the north of Kosovo by the Kosovo authorities a unilateral and uncoordinated step, which violates agreements reached under the EU-facilitated Dialogue. As part of the Arrangements regarding Telecommunications reached in 2013 and the Action Plan agreed in 2015, both Parties agreed to discuss postal services "at a later stage", thereby acknowledging that the issue can only be addressed within the framework of the Dialogue. This has been recognised again today by Kosovo's Regulatory Authority for Electronic and Postal Services. The EU is ready to include this issue on the agenda of the next Dialogue meeting. The EU expects the Parties to develop constructive ideas that could serve as a basis for solutions. Unilateral and uncoordinated actions cannot offer solutions to this or any other issue that belongs to the normalisation process between Kosovo and Serbia. Closing existing services of Kosovo Serbs, without any new prior agreed arrangement, will further negatively affect the daily lives and living conditions of this community. We call on the Kosovo government to reconsider its decision and to find a negotiated solution to this issue in the framework of the EU-facilitated Dialogue. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Bangladesh: Statement by the High Representative on the latest developments European External Action Service (EEAS) 05.08.2024 EEAS Press Team The European Union is closely monitoring the events unfolding in Bangladesh. Following the address to the nation by Chief of Army Staff, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the EU calls for calm and restraint. It is vital that an orderly and peaceful transition towards a democratically elected government is ensured, in full respect of human rights and democratic principles. The EU is saddened by the tragic loss of life during the protests in recent days. We take note of the assurances given by General Waker-Uz-Zaman that the situation will be handled in a peaceful manner, and that all unlawful killings will be impartially investigated. Accountability for human rights violations is crucial. Those who have been arbitrarily detained should be released immediately. As a dedicated partner of the people of Bangladesh, the EU remains committed to the country's prosperity and development. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gaza:Statement by the High Representative on the destruction of critical civilian infrastructure and worsening humanitarian situation European External Action Service (EEAS) 05.08.2024 EEAS Press Team The European Union is gravely concerned over the continuing destruction of key civilian infrastructure, including a water treatment plant in Rafah, and joins international calls for clarity on this incident. The ever-worsening humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza is creating life-threatening conditions for an already severely weakened civilian population that continues to be subject to starvation and repeated displacement into overcrowded tent camps for the tenth consecutive month, with no end in sight and nowhere to go. We are deeply concerned about the collapse of the sanitation, solid waste management, and health systems, causing the spread of diseases, including polio, skin and respiratory infections, in particular among children. We recall that targeting critical life-saving infrastructure constitutes a war crime and urge all parties to take all feasible precautions to avoid harm to civilians, humanitarian workers, and critical civilian infrastructure. We reiterate the urgency of full, rapid, safe and unhindered access to humanitarian aid at the necessary scale for Palestinians. In this context, we reemphasise the importance of respecting and implementing the orders of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which are legally binding. Violations of international humanitarian law need to be thoroughly and independently investigated and accountability ensured. We urge the Israeli government to desist from actions that worsen the living conditions of the civilian population in Gaza and to comply with its obligations under international law. An immediate ceasefire is urgently needed to end the plight of civilians in Gaza, including Israeli hostages. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran: Israel taking aim at regional, global peace by assassinating Haniyeh IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 5, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's Acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani has said that Israel is taking aim at regional and international peace and security by assassinating Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh as the regime considers conflict to be only way for its survival. "The Israeli regime's terrorist action to assassinate Martyr Haniyeh has taken aim at regional and international stability and security, and the Zionist regime believes that the only way to maintain its survival is to incite war and spread conflict among regional countries and against Palestinians", the top Iranian diplomat said on Monday. He made the comments in a meeting with foreign ambassadors in Tehran, briefing them on Iran's stance on Haniyeh's assassination which he said "the criminal gang ruling occupied Palestinian land" is responsible for. Bagheri Kani also said that the assassination is part of the Israeli regime's genocide against Palestinians through eliminating their elites as well as political, cultural and intellectual figures inside and outside the occupied territories, arguing that the regime has a long black list of assassinations in different countries to spread terrorism over the past decades. "Haniyeh's cowardly assassination is a clear example of arbitrary killing and gross violation of human rights. Ismail Haniyeh was attacked in Iran while he was an official guest of the Islamic Republic to attend the inaugural of the president [Masoud Pezeshkian]. The Zionist regime's assassination of Haniyeh is actually considered an unjustified and unlawful violation of Iran's national sovereignty", the diplomat said. "This terrorist act, due to its nature and consequences, is not less than illegal use of force, and it is quite clear that such aggression cannot go unanswered and the Islamic Republic is authorized and entitled to respond in order to defend its interests, territorial integrity and sovereign rights. And our response will be definite and decisive." Further in his remarks, the Iranian diplomat criticized the UN Security Council (UNSC) for its failure to issue a resolution against Israel for assassinating Haniyeh, saying that the unwavering support of the US, the UK and France for Israel is one of the main reasons behind UNSC infectiveness regarding the occupation of Palestine over the past decades. Considering these conditions, Bagheri Kani said, the Islamic Republic of Iran's duty towards its national security and territorial integrity requires the country to act as it sees best, and adopt and apply an appropriate response to this dangerous and aggressive adventurism. 4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel has defeated only 3 of Hamas' 24 battalions in Gaza: Report IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 5, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- A report by American news network CNN has raised doubts about Israeli claims regarding the effectiveness of its military operations against Hamas, revealing that only three of the 24 al-Qassam battalions have been rendered combat ineffective since the start of the war in Gaza. According to the report, which cites data from the Critical Threats Project (CTP) and the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), as of July 1, only three Qassam battalions have been destroyed by Israeli forces. Al-Qassam Brigades is the military wing of the Palestinian Hamas resistance movement. The Israeli military has consistently claimed significant successes against Hamas, saying that the majority of the Qassam Brigades' military capabilities have been degraded. In March, the Israeli army claimed that 20 of the 24 battalions had been "dismantled," and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed in a recent speech to the US Congress that "victory is in sight." However, the latest findings suggest that resistance fighters have effectively utilized their resources and managed to rebuild many of their operational capabilities. "If the Hamas battalions were largely destroyed [as Israel claims], Israeli forces wouldn't still be fighting," retired US Army Colonel Peter Mansoor told CNN. 4353**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hezbollah launches drone, missile strikes against Israeli military sites IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 5, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The Lebanese resistance movement, Hezbollah, says it has launched fresh missile and drone strikes against Israeli military sites in northern occupied Palestine in response to Israeli "attacks and assassinations" in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah announced in a statement on Monday that its fighters targeted the Israeli naval base at Ras al-Naqoura as part of their ongoing operations against the Israeli regime. The group emphasized that the operation was conducted in support of the Palestinian people in Gaza and their courageous resistance. Hezbollah also reported that they targeted the Zar'it military base in a separate artillery attack. In another statement, Hezbollah said it shelled the Rameem military base in support of the Palestinian people in Gaza. Israeli media also said that sirens went off in several settlements near Gaza as well as in the Galilee region on the border with Lebanon. Lebanon's Health Ministry, meanwhile, said two people were killed in an Israeli strike in the south on Monday. "The enemy raid that took place near the (Mais Al-Jabal) town's cemetery killed two people," the ministry said in a statement. Lebanon's official news agency said one of the martyrs was a paramedic. Hezbollah and the Israeli army have been trading fire across the border since October 8, a day after the occupying regime launched a devastating war on Gaza, which has killed nearly 40,000 Palestinians so far. In recent days, tensions have soared as Israel has been bracing for potential retaliatory strikes from Hezbollah and Iran following its assassinations of senior Hamas and Hezbollah figures in Tehran and Beirut. 4353**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Haniyeh's successor will be chosen in coming days: Hamas deputy chief IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 5, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas will appoint a new chief for its Political Bureau in the coming days, Deputy Chief of the movement's Political Bureau, Khalil al-Hayya has said. According to a Monday report by Al Mayadeen satellite news network, Khalil al-Hayya made the remarks during a memorial held for the martyred leader Ismail Haniyeh. Al-Hayya promised that Hamas will remain loyal to the Palestinian people, martyrs, and the Islamic Ummah, by "continuing on the path of struggle, jihad, and resistance," until the liberation of Palestine is achieved. The Hamas official praised martyr Haniyeh's life-long work, saying that his martyrdom has "given new spirit, determination, and strength to [the region's people] and their Resistance." "He was a great leader and a devoted servant, a true ascetic, for whom the doors of martyrdom and paradise open, if Allah wills," al-Hayya underlined. Ismail Haniyeh, the political bureau chief of Hamas, and one of his bodyguards were assassinated in their residence in the Iranian capital early on July 31, a day after attending the inauguration of President Masoud Pezeshkian. **4354 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Zionists' airstrikes martyr 2 citizens in southern Lebanon IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 5, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The Zionist regime's fighters' attack on southern Lebanon has martyred two Lebanese citizens. According to the Lebanese media, the Israeli fighters attacked the vicinity of the cemetery of Meiss El Jabal village in the south of Lebanon on Monday, as a result of which two Lebanese citizens were martyred. Hezbollah announced in a statement that the fighters of the Lebanese Islamic Resistance carried out an air attack with several Kamikaze drones on the new headquarters of the 91st Division in the Illit barracks in the north of occupied Palestine. According to this statement, some Israeli soldiers were killed and wounded in this attack. The Zionist regime's army admitted that an officer and a soldier of the Israeli army were seriously injured in the attack in the town of Illit in Upper Galilee in the north of occupied Palestine. Since the beginning of Operation Al-Aqsa Storm by the Palestinian resistance groups, Hezbollah has carried out daily retaliatory operations against the Israeli regime inside occupied Palestine to engage a large segment of the Zionist military in northern Palestine and reduce the pressure on the resistance in Gaza. As a result of these attacks, several military bases of the regime have been destroyed, and military equipment such as tanks, personnel carriers, and armored vehicles have also been targeted by the Lebanese resistance. 9376**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel to seize $27.5mn in assets from Palestinian Authority IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 5, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Israel's Finance Minister, Bezalel Smotrich has announced that the regime would confiscate the property worth $27.5 million from the Palestinian Authority (PA). According to IRNA citing the Palestinian media sources, Smotrich signed the order to seize the property of the Palestinian Authority on Sunday. The seizing of these amounts of assets is in line with the execution of a verdict issued by Israeli courts to compensate Zionists who were killed during the Palestinian operations. Last year, Smotrich signed a similar order to confiscate the PA property worth 37 million dollars, arguing that the move was taken due to the Palestinians' decision to enter into a political and judicial war against the regime, with reference to lawsuits filed against Israeli crimes in international courts. In May, Israel's far-right finance minister announced that he would be withholding tax revenues earmarked for Palestine. The decision was made in response to Spain, Ireland and Norway's recognition of a Palestinian state. These developments come at a time when the Palestinian Authority that exercises partial control over the occupied West Bank, is already grappling with a severe financial crisis. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pakistan Expresses Solidarity with the Kashmiri People on 'Youm-e-Istehsal Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs On the fifth anniversary of India's illegal and unilateral actions of 5 August 2019 in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), the people and Government of Pakistan are observing the 'Youm-e- Istehsal' (Day of Exploitation), today. The President, the Prime Minister, and the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, in their special messages on the occasion, have reaffirmed Pakistan's strong diplomatic, political and moral support to the Kashmir Cause. The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister has addressed letters to the leadership of the United Nations and Organization of Islamic Cooperation to apprise them of the grave consequences of Indian actions since 5 August 2019. In these letters, the Foreign Minister has also called for implementation of the relevant UN Security Council resolutions to enable the people of Jammu and Kashmir to determine their own future. In the run up to the 'Youm-e-Istehsal', the Foreign Secretary briefed the Islamabad-based diplomatic missions on the situation in IIOJK, on 2 August 2024. He analyzed the situation from the perspective of international law, peace and security, and human rights. To express solidarity with the oppressed people of IIOJK, a special 'Walk' was held in Islamabad this morning along the Constitution Avenue, up to the Parliament Building. The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, and the Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan were guests of honor at this occasion. A range of activities are being organized throughout the country to observe 'Youm-e-Istehsal'. With the active participation of Pakistani and Kashmiri Diaspora, Pakistan's diplomatic missions around the world are also arranging special events to raise global awareness about the plight of the Kashmiri people. Islamabad 5 August 2024 141/2024 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address G7 FMs urges efforts to avoid further escalation of Middle East conflict People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 09:04, August 05, 2024 ROME, Aug. 4 (Xinhua) -- The foreign ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) countries on Sunday urged all actors involved in the current Middle East crisis to refrain from any steps that could possibly escalate the conflict further. "We call on the parties concerned to desist from any initiative that could hinder the path of dialogue and moderation and encourage a new escalation," the G7 Italian presidency said in a statement. After discussing the latest developments in a videoconference, the ministers expressed "strong concern about recent events that threaten to lead to a regionalization of the crisis, starting with Lebanon," according to Italy's foreign minister Antonio Tajani. The G7 extraordinary meeting was called after a recent escalation in the crisis. Tensions escalated after the assassinations of Lebanese group Hezbollah's senior military commander Fouad Shokor in Beirut, and Hamas' political leader Ismail Haniyeh in the Iranian capital Tehran on July 31. A few days earlier, a rocket strike in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights had killed 12 children and teens. Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah blamed Israel for the killings, and threatened to retaliate. Israel claimed responsibility for Shokor's death, saying it was in retaliation to the strike in the Golan, but it did not confirm involvement in the killing of Haniyeh. Since then, the exchange of fire and rockets ongoing across the Israel-Lebanon border has intensified, and so have the diplomatic efforts to contain the crisis. "We reaffirmed the priority of a successful conclusion of negotiations on a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of the hostages, and confirmed our commitment to intensify humanitarian aid to the populations of the Strip" the G7 presidency stressed. Also on Sunday, Italy's foreign minister called on all Italians temporarily in Lebanon to leave the country as soon as possible due to "the worsening situation", and to all citizens to avoid traveling there. It joined many other governments, including those of France, the United States (U.S.), Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom (UK), and Jordan. The G7 comprises Canada, the U.S., France, the UK, Italy, Germany, and Japan. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Rocket attack hits US-occupied base in Iraq; several American personnel injured Iran Press TV Monday, 05 August 2024 9:57 PM A rocket attack has targeted the United States-occupied Ain al-Assad Airbase in the western Iraqi province of al-Anbar, injuring several American personnel members. "Rockets were launched at Ain al-Assad base," AFP reported, citing a military source as saying about the Monday attack. Some of the projectiles "fell inside the base," the source added. At least three explosions were heard in the base, likely due to rocket fire and drone strikes, Lebanon's al-Mayadeen television network reported. CNN, meanwhile, cited an American official as confirming the casualties. "Initial indications are that several US personnel were injured. Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment," the official said. No person or group has claimed responsibility for the incident so far. The attack came less than a week after an American strike claimed the lives of four members of Iraq's anti-terror Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), an umbrella organization composed of the Arab country's resistance groups. It also came amid the resistance groups' outrage at the US's unwavering political, military, and intelligence support for the Israeli regime's ongoing war of genocide against the Gaza Strip that has so far killed more than 39,600 people. The Iraqi groups have been pressing for an end to the presence of foreign forces in Iraq more than a decade after a US-led coalition invaded the country in blatant violation of the international law based on false claims of it being in possession of weapons of mass destruction. There are nearly 2,500 American troops in Iraq and some 900 in Syria as part of, what Washington claims to be, a fighting force against Daesh. The US has maintained its presence, although, the Arab countries and their allies defeated the Takfiri terrorist group in late 2017. In 2020, the Iraqi parliament voted in favor of expulsion of the foreign forces after a US drone strike assassinated Iran's top anti-terror commander General Qassem Soleimani and the PMU's deputy commander Abu Mahdi Al-Muhandis outside Baghdad International Airport. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel seizes more Palestinian funds amid Gaza war Iran Press TV Monday, 05 August 2024 7:18 PM The Israeli regime has confiscated more funds belonging to the Palestinian Authority (PA), the government that controls the West Bank and represents the Palestinians in the international community, amid the war in Gaza. Israel's extremist Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich ordered the seizure of 100 million shekels ($26 million) of tax funds belonging to the Palestinians after his ministry accused the PA in a statement late on Sunday of supporting attacks against the regime. It is a fifth time that Israel confiscates tax funds that it collects on behalf of the PA on goods imported into the occupied West Bank from or via Israeli-controlled lands. The funds constitute a major part of finances needed by the PA to pay salaries to workers in the West Bank. Israel has imposed heavy economic restrictions on the Palestinians both in the Gaza Strip and in the West Bank since it launched a brutal war on Gaza in October. Smotrich said on Monday on his X page that the withholding of Palestinian funds is a strategy meant to prevent the Palestinians from setting up their own independent state. He said that the Israelis should continue to block efforts aimed at the creation of a Palestinian state by expanding settlements in the West Bank that are viewed as illegal by the international community. "We are working on the ground to remove this threat [of a Palestinian state] ... by strengthening settlement through construction ... and maintaining complete Israeli control over the area," said the extremist minister. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran to finally hold IPO for world's largest gas condensate refinery Iran Press TV Monday, 05 August 2024 6:28 PM Iran is planning to list the shares of the world's largest gas condensate refinery as part of a plan to boost the flow of liquidity to the multi-billion dollar facility. Authorities said on Monday that 10% of the shares of the Persian Gulf Star Refinery will be listed on the local stock market in Iran in the very near future. CEO of SHASTA, a state-run holding that controls the majority of shares at the PGSR, said that an initial public offering (IPO) had been decided for the refinery in 2018 but it was cancelled due to disagreements between the Iranian Oil Ministry and the country's central bank. Aref Norouzi said that the PGSR's listing in the stock market will double the value of SHASTA and its oil and gas subsidiary. The PGSR produces 45 million liters per day of gasoline and 12 million liters of diesel, sulfur and jet fuel. It is located in the southern Iranian port of Bandar Abbas and relies of feedstock from various phases of South Pars, the world's largest gas field located on the maritime border between Iran and Qatar. SHASTA controls 49% of shares in PGSR, whose value is estimated to be above $10 billion, while Iran's Oil Ministry's pension fund has 34.5% of the shares and the Iranian government controls the remaining 17.5%. Responding to a question about concerns that the PGSR may face feedstock problems in the coming years because of potential pressure drops at South Pars, Norouzi said the Iranian governments has guaranteed to ensure the flow of feedstock supplies to the refinery either from other fields or through imports. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli strikes on Gaza schools 'continuation of Nazi-like genocide', says Hamas Iran Press TV Monday, 05 August 2024 11:16 AM The Palestinian Hamas resistance movement has strongly condemned the Israeli regime's targeting of schools sheltering internally displaced people in the Gaza Strip, describing the "policy" as a continuation of the occupying entity's "Nazi-like genocide." "The occupying regime's goals behind these massacres, of terrorism, intimidation, and displacement, will be shattered by the steadfastness of this brave people and their resistance," Hamas said in a statement on Monday. "The brutal massacres by the occupying army against our Palestinian people continue. They are targeting the Nasser and Hassan Salama schools in western Gaza, which are full of displaced people. The action is a continuation of the Nazi-like genocide it is waging against unarmed civilians, violating all international laws and norms," the statement read. Hamas called on the international community as well as Arab and Muslim countries to assume their responsibilities and take action to stop the criminal and terrorist behavior of the usurping Tel Aviv regime. "Netanyahu and his henchmen's delusions of subjugation and submission will turn into destruction and ruin for his fragile, troubled entity and his failed, defeated army," the statement noted. An Israeli airstrike hit two schools in Gaza City on Sunday, killing at least 30 people, Palestinian officials said. Footage circulated on Palestinian media outlets showed bodies scattered inside the yard of one of the two schools as residents rushed to carry casualties, including children, and loaded them into ambulance vehicles that took them to at least two nearby hospitals. Gaza's Civil Emergency Service said dozens were wounded in addition to the fatalities in the schools of Hassan Salama and Al-Nasser, which housed Palestinian displaced families. Israel's war on Gaza, which has been raging for more than ten months, has destroyed large swaths of the besieged territory. At least 39,623 people have been killed, the great majority of them women and children. Thousands more are missing or presumed to be dead under the rubble. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Bangladesh PM flees country amid deadly protests; army announces interim govt. Iran Press TV Monday, 05 August 2024 10:44 AM Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and fled the country amid mounting deadly protests against her government's policies and drawn-out reign in power. The 76-year-old left the capital Dhaka on a military helicopter alongside her sister on Monday. Various news outlets said she had fled to India to seek refuge there. The protests began last month after the country reintroduced a so-called quota scheme that reserved more than half of all government jobs for certain groups. The rallies, however, spun into massive demonstrations urging an end to Hasina's 15-year grip on power. At least 300 people have reportedly been killed in the demonstrations, the most violent to be witnessed by the country in over five decades. The most deadly of the rallies took place on Sunday, when at least 94 people, including 14 police officers, lost their lives. Security forces had supported Hasina's government throughout the unrest. On Sunday, however, they did not intervene in several cases. Their non-cooperation came after General Ikbal Karim Bhuiyan, a former army chief, demanded that the government "immediately" withdraw troops and make way for the protests. Also on Monday, Bangladesh's current army chief Waker-Uz-Zaman said he would form an interim government. "We will form an interim government," Waker said in a broadcast to the nation on state television. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Crushing response': IRGC says Israel born in 'cradle of terror'; to be buried in miscalculations Iran Press TV Monday, 05 August 2024 9:09 AM The chief commander of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) calls the Israeli regime an entity that has been born out of terrorism, saying the regime will fall prey to its own transgressions "The Zionist regime has been born in a cradle of terrorism, and is not in possession of any of the elements that constitute a nation," Major General Hossein Salami said during an event held in the capital Tehran on the occasion of National Journalists' Day on Monday. The commander was referring to the regime's creation in the West Asia region in 1948 that followed displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in a heavily-Western-backed war. Ever since that year, the regime has been engaging in daily acts of terror against the regional nations as means of both fighting back opposition to its forcible existence and expanding the areas under its occupation. 'Vortex of fire' Salami likened the Israeli regime's recurrent deadly acts to a "self-made vortex of fire" which has surrounded the regime. He enumerated some of the instances of aggression as the regime's killing of Iranian nuclear scientists, and its recent assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas's political leader, in Tehran. "They think that through these measures, they would succeed in prolonging their survival." "These [atrocities] are, however, holes that they (the Israelis) dug for themselves, and will gradually bury themselves in," Salami stated, adding, "Once they received a strong response, they would understand that they have committed another miscalculation." The remarks echoed those made by Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei in the aftermath of Haniyeh's assassination, during which the Leader of the Islamic Revolution warned of a "harsh response" to the atrocity, and reaffirmed the Islamic Republic's duty to avenge the blood of the resistance leader. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Regional de-escalation hinges on end to Israel's aggression in Gaza: Iraqi prime minister Iran Press TV Monday, 05 August 2024 7:28 AM Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani says preventing the escalation of tensions in the region solely hinges on putting an end to the Israeli regime's "aggression" in the Gaza Strip and preventing its expansion into Lebanon. Sudani made the remarks in a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday as the two sides discussed the latest regional and international developments and ways to prevent further escalation of tensions, the prime minister's media office said in a statement. It added that the Iraqi prime minister stressed the need to deter Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu from conducting any attack on regional countries and halting the regime's repeated violations of international law and sovereignty. Meanwhile, the US Department of State also said that Blinken emphasized the importance of all parties taking steps to calm regional tensions, avoid further escalation, and advance stability. "The secretary affirmed that we remain committed to the US-Iraq 360-degree relationship to build economic opportunities and prosperity for all Iraqis," it added. Tensions have been running high in the region following the Israeli regime's assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on Wednesday and Fuad Shukr, a senior military commander of Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement, in Beirut on Tuesday. Haniyeh was in Tehran to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, alongside other Axis of Resistance leaders. He was assassinated along with his bodyguard, identified as Wasim Abu Shaaban, by the Israeli regime. Shukr, who had an important role in the formation and consolidation of the resistance front against the Israeli occupation, was also martyred along with two children and two women in the attack on a residential apartment in Dahieh. In a statement on Monday morning, the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah said it had targeted an Israeli military headquarters in the northern occupied Palestinian territories with a squadron of suicide drones. The resistance movement added that a number of the regime's troops were killed or injured in the drone strike. At least 39,583 Palestinians, mostly children and women, have been killed and 91,398 people wounded in the war that Israel began on October 7, 2023, following a retaliatory operation by the Palestinian territory's resistance movements. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran blasts Europe's silence on Haniyeh assassination, says inaction 'suspicious' Iran Press TV Monday, 05 August 2024 7:08 AM Iran's interim Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani has denounced the awkward silence of European countries on the assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, stressing that the Islamic Republic will definitely employ its legitimate right to create deterrence against Israel. Bagheri Kani made the comments in a telephone conversation with Slovenia's Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon on Sunday evening as the two sides discussed the state of affairs in West Asia following Israel's assassination of Haniyeh in Tehran and top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in southern Beirut. "The Islamic Republic is surprised by Europe's silence as well as the absence of a UN Security Council statement in condemnation of the Zionist regime's acts of aggression against Iran, Lebanon and Yemen. Moreover, European countries' failure to condemn the killing of Hamas politburo head has raised questions for Iran," the top Iranian diplomat stated. He noted that Iran will undoubtedly use its legitimate and inherent right to defend its security, sovereignty and territorial integrity so that deterrence is created against the Zionist regime's aggression and security and stability are guaranteed in West Asia. Haniyeh, who was in Tehran to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Iran's newly-elected President Masoud Pezeshkian, alongside other Axis of Resistance leaders, was martyred along with his bodyguard, in an attack early on July 31. Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei asserted that Israel should await a "harsh response" for Haniyeh's assassination, calling it the Islamic Republic's duty to avenge the Palestinian resistance leader's blood. Bagheri Kani also noted that Israel, having sustained humiliating defeats from the Palestinian resistance front more than 300 days into the Gaza war, is using fairly sophisticated weapons to massacre defenseless women and children and target civilian facilities. "Zionists also carry out terrorist attacks against civilian buildings in other countries like Yemen, Lebanon, and more recently in Tehran," the Iranian diplomat said. For her part, Fajon pointed to Iran's right to self-defense, stating that Slovenia condemns any violation of international law, and hopes that all parties would exercise restraint in order to protect West Asia's stability. She added that her country is well aware of the Palestinian nation's plight, and wants a ceasefire in Gaza within a certain time framework. "The Islamic Republic of Iran is a very important player in the region and can play an essential role. Slovenia is always ready to prepare the ground for negotiations and mitigation of tensions in West Asia," Fajon said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hezbollah attacks Israeli military headquarters with squadron of drones Iran Press TV Monday, 05 August 2024 1:15 AM The Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah says it has targeted an Israeli military headquarters in the northern occupied Palestinian territories with a squadron of suicide drones. Hezbollah said in a statement on Monday morning that the aerial attack was launched from Lebanon on Israel's newly established 91st Division in the Elite Barracks, located in the Upper Galilee region. The resistance movement added that a number of the regime's troops were killed or injured in the drone strike. The fighters of the Islamic resistance targeted "the positions and settlements of the officers and soldiers, hitting them directly and inflicting of them a number of killed and wounded." The resistance movement noted that the air raid was carried out in support of Gaza and in retaliation for the regime's assassinations of its members during attacks on several Lebanese towns. Since the start of the Israeli genocide in Gaza, Hezbollah and the regime's military have been exchanging fires along Lebanon's southern border. Also on Sunday, Hezbollah fired dozens of rockets towards the northern side of the occupied Palestinian territories to avenge a deadly Israeli attack that had earlier targeted the southern part of Lebanon. The movement fired more than 50 rockets towards the Beit Hillel settlement in the Upper Galilee region, triggering a fire there, various Israeli media outlets reported. The Israeli regime has been staging numerous sporadic attacks against southern Lebanon since October 7, when it launched a genocidal war on the Gaza Strip. In its most daring attack against the country since the beginning of the Gaza war, the regime assassinated Fuad Shukr, a senior Hezbollah military commander and an advisor to the movement's Secretary-General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, on Tuesday. The Israeli regime on Wednesday morning killed Ismail Haniyeh, who was in Tehran to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the new Iranian president. The Hamas chief was assassinated along with his bodyguard, identified as Wasim Abu Shaaban. On Thursday, Nasrallah said fighting against the regime had entered "a new phase" after its assassination of Shukr and Hamas' political leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in an Israeli attack against his residence in the Iranian capital Tehran shortly after the raid that targeted the Hezbollah commander. The regime, the Hezbollah chief said, had "crossed red lines" by carrying out the assassinations and had to expect "rage and revenge on all the fronts." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Philippine coast guard rejects China's 'illegal stranding' claim China said the vessel's presence on a South China Sea shoal violates its sovereignty. By RFA Staff 2024.08.05 -- The Philippine coast guard on Monday rejected a Chinese accusation that a Philippine vessel had been "illegally stranded" on a shoal in the South China Sea that both countries claim. China Coast Guard spokesman Gan Yu said on Sunday that several Philippine fishery patrol boats and fishing boats "have gathered in the waters near the Philippine Coast Guard Ship 9701, which was illegally stranded at Xianbin Reef." Xianbin Reef is the Chinese name for Sabina Reef, a low-tide elevation that is part of the Spratly islands and lies well inside the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, or EEZ. The Philippines refers to it as Escoda Reef. It is 75 nautical miles (140km) from the Philippine island of Palawan. An EEZ gives a coastal state exclusive rights to regulate fishing activities, explore and exploit natural resources within the zone's waters, seabed and subsoil, according to the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea, or UNCLOS. "The Philippine ships' stay at Xianbin Reef violated China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, violated the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and undermined peace and stability in the South China Sea," Gan said. The Chinese coast guard followed and monitored the Philippine ships "in accordance with the law and effectively controlled it," Gan said. 'Not stranded' The Philippine coast guard rejected China's allegation with a spokesperson saying that the coast guard vessel with hull number 9701 "is not stranded at Escoda Shoal." Commodore Jay Tarriela told Radio Free Asia that the ship, known as BRP Teresa Magbanua was "intentionally deployed to maintain our presence and ensure the protection of this area of the West Philippine Sea," referring to the part of the South China Sea within the country's EEZ. "Given our sovereign rights in these waters, the Philippine coast guard can remain there for as long as necessary," Tarriela said. In recent days, the coast guard has been dispatching inflatable boats from the BRP Teresa Magbanua to distribute fuel assistance to Filipino fishing boats in the area, he added. The Philippine coast guard previously said that the 2,260-ton multi-role response vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua has been monitoring the shoal since April after it was alleged that China may be attempting to reclaim land here. This is the longest deployment by a Philippine coast guard vessel. The Philippines alleged in May that China may be carrying out illegal island building at Sabina Shoal as crushed corals had been dumped there - an initial indication of land reclamation. Satellite images provided by the earth imaging company Planet Labs and open source intelligence (OSINT) analysts say that the world's largest coast guard ship China Coast Guard 5901, dubbed "The Monster" for its size, has been in the area since early July. Beijing said the well-armed 12,000-ton "Monster" was conducting "China's legitimate law enforcement activities" but Manila said its presence was for the intimidation of much smaller Philippine ships. However, the Chinese vessel "did not disrupt the Philippine fuel distribution," said Jay Tarriela. The Philippines has intentionally grounded a ship onto a reef in the past. In 1999, it ran an aging warship onto another disputed reef, the Second Thomas Shoal, to reinforce its claim there. Philippine supply missions to its soldiers on the rusty hulk have become a flashpoint with Chinese coast guard boats trying to stop them. Edited by Mike Firn. Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Bangladesh's Sheikh Hasina resigns as PM, leaves country amid nationwide protests Army chief says he ordered forces not to fire on protesters. By Ahammad Foyez, Kamran Reza Chowdhury, Jesmin Papri and Sharifuzzaman Pintu for BenarNews 2024.08.05 -- Bangladesh's Sheikh Hasina has resigned as prime minister, the nation's army chief announced Monday, in a stunning turn of events as the leader who had held office for 15 consecutive years appeared to give in to student protesters' demands that she step down. The announcement came as Dhaka and other cities braced for more violence as thousands of anti-government demonstrators defied a curfew and marched despite the heavy presence of government troops and police officers on the streets. "Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has already resigned and we are working to form an interim government," Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman, the army chief, told reporters at a press conference in front of his cantonment office in Dhaka. Late-breaking international news reports said Hasina had left Bangladesh, with one report from India saying she had arrived in the neighboring country by helicopter earlier in the day. Hasina resigned a day after Bangladesh was plunged into the single deadliest day of violence in recent weeks of political tumult. As many as 98 people were killed across the country on Sunday, as students and protesters took to the streets and launched a civil disobedience campaign to demand that Hasina and her government resign over the killings of at least 200 demonstrators during a first phase of protests in July. "I take all responsibility ... justice [is] to be ensured for every killing and other misconducts," the army chief said. Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman said he had "ordered the police and army not to open fire," at the thousands of people out on the streets on Monday. He said the decision to form an interim administration was taken after discussions with the representatives of major political parties and civil society, although no members from Hasina's Awami League party were present at the meeting. "At the meeting, representatives from BNP [Bangladesh Nationalist Party], Jamaat-e-Islami, Jatiya Party were present while no Awami League people attended. "I will meet the president as soon as possible and will try to form an interim administration. It might take one or two days ... please cooperate with us," the general said. The protesters were demanding justice for the 212 people who lost their lives during the earlier wave of civil unrest last month, when students staged protests against a quota system for government jobs. It was heavily weighted in favor of children and grandchildren of war veterans who had fought for Bangladesh's independence from Pakistan in 1971. As a result of those protests, the Supreme Court's appellate division slashed quotas for select groups to 7% from 56%, paving the way to make most government jobs merit-based in the country with a high unemployment rate among young people. Hasina, who had held power uninterrupted since 2009, and her government were reelected in January in national polls that were widely criticized as tainted. In the months leading up to the general election, the opposition BNP had staged massive street protests in 2023 calling on her government to make way for a neutral caretaker administration to run the country during the election transition, but she refused to step down. On the eve of her departure from office, the 76-year-old PM and daughter of the country's founding leader, presided over a meeting of the national security council and appeared to order the armed forces and police to come down hard in stopping the protesters from spreading "anarchy." "No one of those who now are carrying out violence is a student. They are terrorists," A.B.M. Sarwer-E-Alam Sarker, the prime minister's assistant press secretary, quoted Hasina as saying, according to the state-run Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) news service. BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated news outlet. Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Cambodia launches ambitious Funan Techo canal project Neighboring Vietnam is concerned about the canal's potential negative effects on its Mekong delta. By RFA Staff 2024.08.05 -- Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet on Monday presided over the launching ceremony for the Funan Techo canal, a US$1.7 billion project that has been hailed in Cambodia as "historic" but has raised concerns in neighboring Vietnam. Thousands of people gathered at the construction site in Prek Takeo, Kandal province, from early in the morning to attend the launch, reported the pro-government Khmer Times. "Through the construction of the historic canal, we are showing a sense of patriotism and national unity," Hun Manet was quoted as saying. The Funan Techo canal project was proposed and approved when Hun Manet's father, Hun Sen, was head of the government and analysts say it is being seen as one of the great legacies of the veteran leader, whose birthday is Aug 5. Hun Manet said the 180-kilometer (112-mile) canal linking Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh, and the Gulf of Thailand will greatly benefit the economy as well as improve standards of living, when it becomes operational in 2028. The canal was not just a waterway but "a living monument symbolizing the historical significance and greatness of the former Funan Empire," the prime minister said, referring to the ancient rulers of what is now Cambodia and parts of Thailand and Vietnam. All radio and TV stations across the country were reportedly requested to broadcast the ceremony that began at 6:30 a.m. 'Cambodia will not negotiate' Cambodia says that by directly linking the Mekong River system to its coast it will cut transport costs and help reduce by up to 70% dependence on Vietnam's ports for international trade. Hun Manet said at the launch that the first 21-kilometer (12.5-mile) section of the canal from Prek Takeo to the Bassac River will be 100% domestically funded. The second section, of more than 130 kilometers (80 miles) from Koh Thom to Kep province, will be funded by both the China Road and Bridge Corporation, or CRBC, and a Cambodian firm as a build-operate-transfer project. "Cambodian companies and state-owned enterprises are the majority holders here," the prime minister was quoted as saying, "Sovereignty cannot be lost here." But the project has raised concerns in Vietnam where the rice-growing Mekong delta is vulnerable to sea water incursions if the flow of fresh water down the Mekong and into the delta is reduced. Vietnam has repeatedly asked for more information on the canal's environmental impact but Hun Sen, in an unusually forthright reaction to the concerns of his old ally, dismissed the worries saying Cambodia "will not negotiate." To date, no Vietnamese senior officials have spoken publicly about the canal's possible impact. After last month's visit to Phnom Penh by Vietnamese President To Lam, no joint statement was issued and Vietnam's state media didn't mention the megaproject in its coverage of the trip. RFA emailed the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs to seek comment on Monday's groundbreaking ceremony but didn't immediately receive a response. 'Shaky financial grounds' "With the decision to go ahead with the canal, Cambodia is making every effort to bolster its agency amid great-power rivalry," said Huynh Tam Sang, a lecturer at Vietnam's National University. "Hun Manet's unwavering resolve also reveals the overarching power of his father, Hun Sen, who continues to wield considerable influence in Cambodia's foreign-policy making process." The Vietnamese analyst said that how the Hun Manet administration addresses issues such as the potential social and ecological impacts of the Funan Canal project on the Mekong delta "will be a litmus test for the Hun family's ability to sustain power." Another analyst - Brian Eyler from the Washington-based Stimson Center - earlier told RFA that the project "appears to be on shaky financial grounds." Eyler said that it remained to be seen whether the project would progress fast beyond the groundbreaking ceremony. If the project does stay on track, Huynh Tam Sang, said China's role as the primary sponsor would likely bring Cambodia even closer into its orbit. "While Cambodia and Vietnam are at odds over the canal, the Sino-Cambodian alignment may pose challenges for Vietnam, particularly when Hanoi has been seeking support for its stance regarding the South China Sea issue," the Vietnamese scholar said. Edited by Mike Firn. Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Several' U.S. Personnel Injured In Rocket Attack On Iraqi Base As Fears Grow Of Wider Conflict By RFE/RL's Radio Farda August 05, 2024 Fears of a wider Middle East conflict intensified late on August 5 as a U.S. spokesperson confirmed that "several" American personnel were injured in a rocket attack claimed by pro-Iran fighters on a military base in Iraq. "There was a suspected rocket attack today against U.S. and coalition forces at Al-Asad Airbase, Iraq," the spokesperson said. "Initial indications are that several U.S. personnel were injured." Details of the attack, potential casualties, and damages remain unclear. One of Iran's so-called proxy groups -- an Iraq-based militia -- claimed to have launched the assault on the base in Iraq's Anbar Province that hosts some of the remaining U.S. soldiers in the country, just days after a U.S. air strike killed at least four pro-Iran extremists in Iraq. Iran-backed groups have resumed rocket attacks on U.S. troops in recent days after a lull, apparently seeking to punish Washington for its close alliance with Israel. The report comes as concerns grow that Iran, or one of its proxy groups, could seek revenge after the assassination in Tehran of Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of the U.S.- and EU-designated Palestinian terrorist group Hamas. Iran and its Lebanese Hizballah ally -- which has also been deemed a terrorist organization by Washington -- vowed to avenge that attack and other deadly strikes in Iran and Beirut that Tehran has blamed on Israel. Iran on August 5 said punishing Israel will prevent further instability in the Middle East, but it added that it does not want to escalate tensions already running high after the assassination of Haniyeh. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned Iran and its proxies against attacking his country and said Israel was already in a "in a multifront war against Iran's axis of evil." The Tasnim news agency, which is linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), quoted Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani as saying that "we believe that Iran is entitled to punish the aggressor within the framework of international law.... Iran will definitely and decisively take serious and deterrent measures by exercising its inherent right on the basis of international principles to ensure its security." "Iran believes that stability will be achieved with the punishment of the aggressor," he added. Israel has not taken responsibility for Haniyeh's killing in the Iranian capital in what has become a major embarrassment to the authorities in Tehran. Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu arrived in Tehran on August 5, according to Russian state media, for a working visit with senior Iranian officials, including President Masud Pezeshkian, who was sworn in less than a week ago. According to Iranian state media, Pezeshkian told Shoigu that Tehran was determined to expand relations with its "strategic partner" and expressed appreciation for Moscow's support. "Russia is among the countries that have stood by the Iranian nation during difficult times," Pezeshkian reportedly told Shoigu. The IRGC said on August 3 that a short-range projectile was behind the killing and accused the United States of supporting the attack, which it blamed on Israel. The IRGC said in a statement that a rocket with a 7-kilogram warhead was used to target the residence of Haniyeh, who was the political leader of Hamas. Citing unnamed sources, The New York Times reported that the blast that killed Haniyeh was a bomb covertly smuggled two months ago into the guesthouse where Haniyeh was staying in Tehran. Kanaani said the international community, and the United States in particular, had failed to help maintain stability in the region. A day earlier, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin pledged Washington's "iron-clad support" for Israel if Tehran were to launch an attack. On August 5, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said that Washington has sent messages through diplomatic channels urging countries to tell Tehran that escalation in the region "is not in anyone's interest." Miller told a briefing that Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke on August 5 with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty on regional tensions, but he did not say whether messages had been delivered to Iran. Washington and Tehran do not have diplomatic relations and messages are often transmitted by third-party nations. As calls for de-escalation continue from around the globe, Tehran has called for an emergency meeting of the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) over Haniyeh's assassination. The group, which consists of 57 states including all of Israel's neighbors, agreed to meet on August 7. Tensions have been running high in the region since Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7 that killed some 1,200 people, with another 240 being taken hostage as Hamas fighters retreated back into the Gaza Strip. In response, Israel launched a withering war against Hamas that, according to the Hamas-led Health Ministry, has left almost 40,000 people dead and hundreds of thousands homeless. Then, on April 13, Iran attacked Israel with more than 300 drones and missiles -- which caused limited damage and casualties -- in response to a suspected Israeli air strike on the Iranian Embassy compound in Damascus on April 1 that killed seven Iranian commanders, including two generals. With reporting by AFP and AP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-israel-middle-east- tensions-killing-haniyeh/33066286.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Armenian Protest Leader Vows Renewed Efforts To Oust Pashinian By Satenik Kaghzvantsian and Shoghik Galstian August 05, 2024 An outspoken priest leading Armenia's latest protest movement vowed renewed efforts to remove Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian from power as he continued to tour Armenia's regions this month. Archbishop Bagrat Galstanian, who emerged as the leader of antigovernment protests last spring when tens of thousands of Armenians took to the streets to oppose a controversial border-demarcation deal with Azerbaijan, signaled that the movement needed to rethink its format after a violent police crackdown on its supporters in front of the parliament building on June 12. Galstanian, who has accused Pashinian of making unilateral territorial concessions to Azerbaijan, calling for his resignation, has spent the past several weeks visiting towns and villages across Armenia and holding meetings with his supporters. In an interview with RFE/RL's Armenian Service during one visit on August 4, Galstanian said active antigovernment campaigns pushing for Pashinian's resignation would resume in early September. He did not disclose specific actions but mentioned that the second stage of actions would commence with an indoor meeting, rather than an outdoor public rally, where "ways to remove Pashinian" would be discussed with supporters. "What will the second stage of the struggle be? The anti-Christ must leave in a very good way," Galstanian said, referring to Pashinian, as he met with supporters in Armenia's northwestern Shirak Province. He added that the methods of the struggle would change as they had "drawn conclusions" from the government's actions. "We have seen a bloodthirsty anti-Christ, a blood-craving government, and have decided to change our tactics and methods so as not to give [the authorities] the pleasure of having that blood," the archbishop said, without elaborating. Galstanian again countered claims that his antigovernment movement had lost momentum or lacked unity regarding the issue of the prime minister's resignation. He asserted that support for the movement had increased, claiming that more people were joining both inside and outside the country. "This is an ongoing struggle, an unceasing struggle," he said, adding that the movement will continue "until I'm dead and the people of this struggle are extinct." Pashinian, who has also toured several communities across Armenia in recent weeks, mostly receiving an outpouring of support from residents, including in border villages, has not commented on Galstanian's recent statements. Pashinian allies, meanwhile, continue to dismiss the archbishop-led movement as unpopular. Arpi Davoyan, a lawmaker representing Pashinian's ruling Civil Contract party, told RFE/RL's Armenian Service that Galstanian's statements about renewed protests neither worried the government nor needed to be taken seriously. "Why should I be worried that some unsuccessful priest is wandering all over Armenia, trying to convince everyone of something by spreading lies and falsehoods? Should I now be worried that this person has announced the second stage of his falsehood?" she said. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-border- protest-galstanian-pashinian/33066708.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kosovo Shuts Serb Post Branches, Prompting Rebukes From EU, U.S. By RFE/RL's Kosovo Service August 05, 2024 Kosovar police on August 5 shut down at least nine branches of the Post of Serbia near the northern border with bitter rival Serbia, prompting angry responses from Belgrade and ethnic Serbs in Kosovo. Veton Elshani, a police official for Kosovo's northern region, told RFE/RL that three facilities in North Mitrovica, three in Leposavic, two in Zvecan, and one in Zubin Potok were closed. Elshani said the offices were operating without a license and without registering with proper Kosovar agencies. The European Union, which has attempted to help Kosovo and Serbia to normalize relations, criticized the move by Kosovo and called on Pristina to reconsider the action. "The European Union considers today's closure of nine Post of Serbia branches in the north of Kosovo by the Kosovo authorities a unilateral and uncoordinated step, which violates agreements reached under the EU-facilitated Dialogue," a statement said. "Unilateral and uncoordinated actions cannot offer solutions to this or any other issue that belongs to the normalization process between Kosovo and Serbia. Closing existing services of Kosovo Serbs, without any new prior agreed arrangement, will further negatively affect the daily lives and living conditions of this community," it added. The United States, which has been one of Kosovo's leading supporters but which has also criticized the government over actions regarding its Serb minority, also assailed the move. "The U.S. government is deeply disappointed by the unilateral, uncoordinated actions taken by the government of Kosovo against branches of Serbian post offices in the north of Kosovo," said a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Pristina. Kosovo's actions "put Kosova[r] citizens and KFOR soldiers at greater risk, unnecessarily escalate regional tensions, and undermine Kosovo's reputation as a reliable international partner," it added, referring to NATO's peacekeeping troops in Kosovo. The move comes after Kosovar authorities in May closed several postal savings banks in the region, claiming they were being used by ethnic Serbs to receive salaries from Serbia and conduct payments in Serbian dinars, which were banned in Kosovo at the beginning of the year. Serb List, the dominant Serbian political party in Kosovo, condemned the action, saying that it "violates the agreements reached in Brussels in 2015 under the auspices of the European Union." "By doing so, the entire dialogue and its legacy are annulled, and the European Union is undermining its already weak authority and reputation that it has in the eyes of the Serbian people," Serb List said in a statement. Petar Petkovic, head of the Serbian government's office for Kosovo, called the Kosovar police action "illegal" and accused Prime Minister Albin Kurti of "directly provoking a war conflict." Belgrade, which has never acknowledged Kosovo's 2008 declaration of independence, still pays many ethnic Serbs at institutions in Serb-dominated parts of the country - where an estimated 120,000 ethnic Serbs still live -- in dinars. Many also hold their pensions and get child allowances in dinars. The work of the Post has been hampered since February 1 following the decision of the Central Bank of Kosovo (CBK) to declare the euro the only currency for cash payments. The CBK justified the move by saying it has a "legal obligation" to regulate the financial system, especially an issue like the currency, which "has remained unregulated for a very long time." The international community has criticized the decision, saying it did not offer enough alternatives for local Serbs. The EU urged a longer transition period in the move away from the dinar. Even though it is not a member of the EU or its currency zone, Kosovo unilaterally adopted the euro in 2002 to help bring monetary stability and to simplify and reduce transaction costs inside and outside the country. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kosovo-serb-post-raid- mitrovica-leposavic-zvecan/33066625.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Biden Briefed on Attack That Injured US Troops at Al Asad Airbase in Iraq - White House Sputnik News 20240805 The team discussed the steps the United States is taking to defend its forces and respond to any attack against US personnel in a manner and place of its choosing, the White House added. WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - President Joe Biden has been briefed on the suspected rocket attack that injured several US service members at Al Asad Airbase in Iraq, the White House said in a statement. "Today, President Biden and Vice President Harris were briefed by the national security team on developments in the Middle East," the White House said Monday. "The briefing focused on the threats posed by Iran and its proxies to Israel and to US service members in the region. The President and Vice President were briefed on the attack at Al Asad Air Base in Iraq." The team discussed the steps the United States is taking to defend its forces and respond to any attack against US personnel in a manner and place of its choosing, the White House added. The team also discussed continued diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the regional tension and to bring the Gaza deal to a close. The United States' military presence across the Arab world throughout its so-called "War on Terror" has lead to the death of at least 4.5 million people, according to a study by researchers at Brown University. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Personnel Injured in Suspected Rocket Attack on Al Asad Airbase in Iraq - Pentagon Sputnik News 20240805 WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - Several US personnel have been injured in a suspected rocket attack against US and coalition forces at Al Asad Airbase in Iraq, a Defense Department spokesperson said in a statement to Sputnik. "We can confirm that there was a suspected rocket attack today against US and coalition forces at Al Asad Airbase, Iraq," the spokesperson said on Monday. "Initial indications are that several US personnel were injured. Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment." A source within the Iraqi security services earlier told Sputnik on Monday that rockets had been fired at the US military base Ain al-Asad in western Iraq from a truck-based launcher after initial reports of explosions surfaced in Iraqi media. According to Reuters, two Katyusha rockets were fired. "The Ain al-Asad base was shelled with two rockets that were launched from a truck," the source said. Per the source, both rockets exploded on the outskirts of the base, causing no damage. Since the beginning of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, US bases leading the international coalition in Iraq, as well as US troops in Syria, have regularly been subjected to attacks, for which armed Shiite groups operating in Iraq have claimed responsibility. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Call with Qatari Prime Minister-Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson August 5, 2024 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. The Secretary and the Prime Minister discussed efforts to calm tensions in the Middle East and prevent further escalation of the conflict. They also discussed ongoing work to reach a ceasefire to the conflict in Gaza that secures the release of hostages, allows for a surge of humanitarian assistance, alleviates the suffering of the Palestinian people, and unlocks the possibility of broader regional stability. The Secretary thanked the Prime Minister for Qatar's critical role in working for lasting regional peace. The Secretary reiterated there was overwhelming evidence that opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia received the most votes in Venezuela's presidential election. The Secretary and Prime Minister discussed the importance of resolving the crisis in a way that respects the will of the Venezuelan people. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Call with Head of the Sovereign Council of Sudan Abdel Fattah al-Burhan US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson August 5, 2024 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke by phone today with Head of the Sovereign Council of Sudan Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. Secretary Blinken reiterated the need for SAF to participate in ceasefire talks in Switzerland. He emphasized that the devastation and destruction since April 2023 demonstrate that convening national ceasefire talks is the only way to end the conflict, prevent the spread of famine, and restore the civilian political process. The Secretary underscored the need to urgently end the fighting and enable unhindered humanitarian access, including cross border and cross line, to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Deputy Secretary Campbell's Meeting with Ho Chi Minh Academy President Dr. Thang US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson August 5, 2024 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Deputy Secretary of State Kurt M. Campbell met with President of Ho Chi Minh Academy Dr. Nguyen Xuan Thang on Friday in Washington, D.C., following Secretary Blinken's recent trip to Hanoi. Deputy Secretary Campbell reiterated U.S. condolences for the loss of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and stated the United States will continue to work closely with Vietnam's leadership, including President To Lam as he carries out the duties of General Secretary. The Deputy Secretary underscored the United States' support for a strong, independent, prosperous, and resilient Vietnam and highlighted our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Deputy Secretary Campbell and Dr. Thang reaffirmed our nations' shared commitment to implementing the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and further bolstering close coordination in critical areas, including semiconductors and supply chains. The two officials discussed how the United States and Vietnam can advance cooperation in other key areas such as security, technology, trade, and human rights, and strengthen our economic cooperation as discussed at the June U.S.-Vietnam Economic Dialogue. They affirmed that the U.S.-Vietnam economic relationship will remain strong, forward looking, and positive. The Deputy Secretary stated that he welcomes continued bilateral engagement on the steps Vietnam can take to transition to a market economy. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address "Turkiye stands with Palestine during these difficult days of fight for survival" Presidency Of The Republic Of Turkey 05.08.2024 Delivering remarks following the Presidential Cabinet Meeting, President Erdogan said: "Turkiye stands with Palestine during these difficult days of fight for survival and supports its Palestinian brothers and sisters with all of its means. It is Turkiye that takes the clearest and strongest action against Israel's genocidal policies." President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a press conference following the Presidential Cabinet Meeting at the Presidential Complex. "WESTERN ACTORS HAVE UNFORTUNATELY BECOME CAPTIVES OF ISRAEL AND A HANDFUL OF FANATIC ZIONISTS" "Our region has been going through truly painful days. The war between Russia and Ukraine has completed its 2.5 years. There seems no short-term possibility on the horizon for the war to end. Israel's attacks on Gaza are now in their tenth month. Yet another threshold has been crossed with the martyrdom of Hamas Political Bureau Chief Ismail Haniyeh," said President Erdogan. "The Netanyahu government's stance that knows no law and no rule leaves our region face to face with bad scenarios. Western actors, particularly the United States, have unfortunately become captives of Israel and a handful of fanatic Zionists. The ceasefire talks have yielded no outcomes to revive the hopes. The Netanyahu government has repeatedly showed its intention to carry on with their massacre policies despite Hamas' constructive attitude. Israel will explore every avenue to spread the fire across the region as long as the powers that wields influence over it preserve their ambivalent policies. Turkiye closely follows the developments in its region." "WE WILL SUBMIT OUR PETITION TO JOIN THE GENOCIDE CASE" Stressing that Turkiye has been doing everything in its power for the immediate termination of Israel's barbarity that has claimed 40 thousand lives over the past 10 months, President Erdogan noted: "We have already announced our decision to intervene in the genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. We are taking a concrete step on this issue on Wednesday. Our Parliament's legal team will submit a petition on August 7 to the International Court of Justice in The Hague for joining the case. We are thus making our official application on behalf of Turkiye." President Erdogan added: "Turkiye stands with Palestine during these difficult days of fight for survival and supports its Palestinian brothers and sisters with all of its means. It is Turkiye that takes the clearest and strongest action against Israel's genocidal policies. The impertinent statements made on a daily basis shows the discomfort our country's resolute stance causes in the Netanyahu government. To those who opt to become trolls instead of statesmen, I would like to say that we will continue to disturb social media charlatans who target our flag and independence. No matter what the bloodthirsty genocide network does, it won't stop Turkiye and the Turkish nation from standing in solidarity with the Palestinians." "OUR COUNTRY HOSTED THE LARGEST PRISONER SWAP SINCE WW2" Noting that the most comprehensive exchange of prisoners since the World War Two has taken place in Ankara as a result of a meticulous work by Turkiye's National Intelligence Organization (MIT), President Erdogan stated: "26 individuals in jails in the United States, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, Russia and Belarus have been exchanged without any issues, setting an example for the world. I wholeheartedly congratulate our National Intelligence Organization and its personnel that played a critical role in this swap, which demonstrates Turkiye's key role beyond its humanitarian aspect. I once again thank MIT's unsung heroes who have protected our state against countless attacks, treasons and provocations, even at the cost of their lives when necessary, for 97 years." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address "The global system has gone bankrupt with the Gaza crisis" Presidency Of The Republic Of Turkey 05.08.2024 Addressing the AK Party Human Rights Training Program, President Erdogan, in reference to Israel's attacks on Gaza, said: "The global system has gone bankrupt with the Gaza crisis. The United Nations Security Council keeps mum in the face of this atrocity, which should normally have prompted a global outcry." President and Justice and Development (AK) Party Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdogan made a speech at the AK Party Human Rights Training Program in Ankara. Underscoring that they closely follow the regional developments, President Erdogan drew attention to the significant power gap in the international system, and added: "We are all together witnessing the collapse of the rule-based system the humanity built in the aftermath of grave experiences. However, steps that would reverse this bad course of events have yet to be taken. Unfortunately, the necessary lessons have not been drawn from the Srebrenica genocide, the Iraq's occupation, the Syrian conflict, or the Russia-Ukraine war. No efforts aimed at revising the global system on the axis of justice and preventing the violation of rights, including the right to live, have been made. Each crisis erupted in the face of this complacency has sadly surpassed the previous one. However, the global system has gone bankrupt with the Gaza crisis. Gaza has put down all the masks, removed all the curtains on the reality and revealed how empty the institutions that have been shown as an example for decades." "ISRAEL MASSACRES GAZANS BY DEPRIVING THEM OF WATER AND FOOD" Stressing that it has been 10 months since Israel's genocide has begun, President Erdogan said: "In this period, over 6 thousand children were killed, and 40 thousand innocent people were martyrized. Bodies of more than 10 thousand martyrs under the debris have yet to be reached. Nearly 100 thousand peple, some of them seriously, have been injured. Israel not only kills Gazans with bombs and bullets but also massacres them by depriving them of water and food. A rogue state that is getting more spoiled, ruthless and brutal every passing day has been committing for 300 days every kind of barbarity against 2.3 million people that it has squeezed into a piece of land no larger than the palm of a hand. The global system has gone bankrupt with the Gaza crisis. The United Nations Security Council keeps mum in the face of this atrocity, which should normally have prompted a global outcry. They have half-heartedly adopted a so-called resolution but have not bothered to take the slightest action to execute it." "NEITHER HISTORY NOR THEIR CHILDREN WILL FORGIVE THEM" "Just as the names of those, who applauded Hitler with excitement during his genocidal speech at the Nazi parliament Reichstag 85 years ago, went down in history with shame, those, who have given Netanyahu, the present Hitler, a standing ovation for his lies, will never be able to clean that dark stain stuck on their hands for a lifetime as well. Neither history nor their children will forgive these unconscientious people, letting out cries of joy over especially the pains of the oppressed." Underscoring that the place for those, who have been carrying out a genocide, should be courtrooms, not parliament halls, President Erdogan noted that it is lack of foresight, beyond unjustness, to welcome those responsible for the killing of 40 thousand people in Gaza, and went on to say: "We have seen where this lack of foresight could reach last week. We cannot assess the martyrizing of our brother Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas Political Bureau Chief, in the Iranian capital city of Tehran separately from that scene of ovation. Those horrible scenes have not only torn the Palestinian people apart, but what is worse, have spoilt Netanyahu. While the whole world was expecting Israel to be convinced for ceasefire, the result turned out to be the martyrizing of the negotiator as a result of a despicable assassination." "GAZA HAS SHOWN US THE UNJUSTNESS AND HYPOCRISY OF THE GLOBAL SYSTEM" President Erdogan continued as follows: "Gaza has shown us not only the unjustness of the global system, but also its hypocrisy. Everything has and is occurring right before our eyes. Journalists have been massacred, but international media outlets have remained silent. Women, children, infants have been killed. No objection has been raised from those, who have been preaching human rights and freedoms. Those, who camped out in Istanbul and made round-the-clock live broadcast during the Gezi incidents, have been playing ostrich regarding Gaza for 10 months. Those, who fussed around to help city bandits during the ditch terror, have yet to move a muscle for the oppressed people in Gaza for 10 months." Drawing attention to the censors social media companies impose to mute the Palestinian people and hide Israel's atrocity, President Erdogan said: "We are faced with a digital fascism that cannot even tolerate even the photographs of the Palestinian martyrs and immediately bans them, and markets this as freedom." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Secretary, David Lammy made the following statement regarding the situation in Bangladesh 5 August 2024 The Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, said: The last two weeks in Bangladesh have seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life. A transitional period has been announced by the Chief of the Army Staff. All sides now need to work together to end the violence, restore calm, deescalate the situation and prevent any further loss of life. The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past few weeks. The UK wants to see action taken to ensure Bangladesh a peaceful and democratic future. The UK and Bangladesh have deep people-to-people links and shared Commonwealth values. The UK is alarmed by the escalating violence across Sudan: UK statement at the UN Security Council Statement by Legal Adviser Colin McIntyre at the UN Security Council briefing on ICC Sudan. 5 August 2024 Mr. President, the UK is alarmed by the escalation of violence inside Sudan, including in Darfur. The ongoing fighting in El Fasher has caused significant civilian loss of life and has forced thousands to flee their homes. There are also a growing number of reports alleging that serious international crimes are being committed in Darfur as well as elsewhere in Sudan. This includes the recruitment of child soldiers, conflict-related sexual violence, and violence targeted at specific ethnic groups. We are gravely concerned by such reports. In this context, we particularly welcome the progress that the Office of the Prosecutor has made in advancing accountability as outlined in the 39th report including through continued engagement with Sudanese civil society organisations and through the extensive deployment of investigators to Chad to collect further testimonial evidence. The UK also welcomes some signs of improved cooperation from those in power in Sudan, including through the provision of visas, the facilitation of a field visit to Port Sudan and engagement in relation to certain priority Requests for Assistance. It is essential that this cooperation continues to improve. The UK is also pleased to note the continuing progress in the trial of the former Janjaweed commander, Mr Abd-Al-Rahman, also known as Ali Kushayb. As this landmark case moves forward towards its final stages we pay tribute to the more than 100 victims and witnesses who have participated in the trial. Such trials are critical to ensuring accountability and justice. Indeed the progress in this trial serves to highlight the crucial importance of ensuring that the other individuals subject to outstanding arrest warrants are surrendered to the Court. We call upon the Sudanese authorities to do more to respond substantively to the Office of the Prosecutor's request for information concerning the whereabouts of Ahmed Harun, Omar Al-Bashir and Abdel Raheem Hussein. Finally, we note that in October last year, the Human Rights Council adopted the 'Sudan Core Group' resolution to establish an independent and international Fact-Finding Mission. We believe that this represents a further important contribution to ensuring impartial investigations of human rights violations and abuses. Mr. President, the UK reiterates its continued support for the International Criminal Court and for its important work in this situation. This conflict must not be forgotten and we remind all parties to the conflict that the Prosecutor's mandate is ongoing. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Bangladesh: UN urges peaceful transition as PM resigns and flees the country 5 August 2024 - Top United Nations officials underscored the need for a peaceful and democratic transition in Bangladesh after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday in the face of massive anti-Government protests, which claimed the lives of hundreds of demonstrators in recent weeks. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres "continues to closely follow developments in the country," UN Deputy Spokesperson, Farhan Haq, said in a statement. "He urges calm and restraint by all sides and emphasizes the importance of a peaceful, orderly and democratic transition," he added. The UN chief also expressed "full solidarity with the people of Bangladesh" and called for the full respect of their human rights. "He continues to underscore the need for a full, independent, impartial and transparent investigation into all acts of violence," Mr. Haq noted. Hundreds killed in crackdown More than 300 people, including many children, are said to have been killed since student-led protests erupted in July, and more than 20,000 injured. The bloodshed was among the worst ever witnessed in Bangladesh. The unrest began in July with protests by students against civil service job quotas. Though the scheme was withdrawn, protests erupted again last week, with the key demand for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to quit and for those responsible for the violent suppression of demonstrations to be held accountable. Ms. Hasina had been in power since January 2009, having earlier led the country from 1996 to 2001. Media reports suggest her departure from Bangladesh was met with widespread jubilation across much of the country. There were also reports of ransacking and arson at the Prime Ministerial residence; a museum commemorating the country's first President and Ms. Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman; and homes of senior government officials. Bangladesh's army chief announced in a televised national address following her departure that an interim government would be formed, although no further details were provided. There must be no reprisals Also on Monday, Volker Turk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, underscored the importance of the transition of power in Bangladesh being "peaceful and guided by human rights". "The transition must be conducted in a transparent and accountable way, and be inclusive and open to the meaningful participation of all Bangladeshis," he said in a statement. "There must be no further violence or reprisals." Mr. Turk highlighted that democratic order and the rule of law must be ensured as quickly as possible, and that all emergency measures must be limited in accordance with international law. Everyone arbitrarily detained must be released, all those responsible for human rights violations must be held to account. He stressed that underlying issues and grievances must be addressed. Independent investigations urged The High Commissioner reiterated his call or a comprehensive, impartial and transparent investigation into all alleged human rights violations since July. "In the current circumstances, and to ensure public confidence, an investigation should be conducted independently, and my Office stands ready to support this," he said. "The demands for justice and reform must be heeded," he added. "This is a time for national healing, including through an immediate end to violence, as well as accountability that ensures the rights of victims to truth and reparations, and a truly inclusive process that brings the country together on the way forward." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel: Amid reports of torture inside jails, rights experts call for end to impunity 5 August 2024 - Reports of alleged torture and sexual violence in Israel's Sde Teiman prison represent "the tip of the iceberg", UN independent human rights experts warned on Monday, calling for swift action to end impunity surrounding reports of violations against Palestinian detainees. "Israel's widespread and systemic abuse of Palestinians in detention and arbitrary arrest practices over decades, coupled with the absence of any restraints by the Israeli State since 7 October 2023, paint a shocking picture enabled by absolute impunity," the experts said. Call for international observers "What is required now is nothing short of an independent, international presence of human rights observers," they said. "They must become the world's eyes in light of Israel's brazen failure to prevent and address the heinous rights violations against prisoners and detainees." The experts have received substantiated reports of widespread abuse, torture, sexual assault and rape, amid atrocious inhumane conditions, with at least 53 Palestinians apparently dying as a result in the 10 months that have followed the Hamas-led attacks on Israel, which left some 1,200 dead and 250 taken hostage. Caged, blindfolded and stripped Around 9,500 Palestinians, including hundreds of children and women, are currently imprisoned, a third of them without charge or trial, the independent UN Human Rights Council-appointed experts said. They added that an unknown number are arbitrarily being held in detention facilities and ad hoc camps following a wave of arrests and "abduction campaigns" across Occupied Palestinian Territory. Countless testimonies by men and women speak of detainees in cage-like enclosures, tied to beds blindfolded and in diapers, stripped naked, deprived of adequate healthcare, food, water and sleep. Some allegedly have suffered electrocutions on their genitals, together with cigarette burns, the experts said. Some victims also spoke of loud music played until their ears bled, being attacked by dogs, waterboarding, suspension from ceilings and severe sexual and gender-based violence. "Allegations of gang-rape of a Palestinian detainee, now shockingly supported by voices in the Israeli political establishment and society, provide irrefutable evidence that the moral compass is lost," the experts said. Previous warnings unheeded In February 2024, a number of experts had expressed grave concern regarding the reports of sexual and other forms of gender-based violence committed against Palestinian women and girls in Israeli detention. Francesca Albanese, the Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, investigated Israel's detention practices in 2023 and called on UN Member States to intervene and the International Criminal Court (ICC) to promptly investigate what appeared to be a consolidated crime against humanity. On Monday, the experts said they regretted this call was not heeded. "Torture practices are irredeemably unlawful and constitute international crimes yet form part of the modus operandi of Israel's notorious detention and torture system," the experts warned. "These practices are intended to punish Palestinians for resisting occupation and seek to destroy them individually and collectively." De facto hostages Most Palestinian detainees are "de facto hostages of an unlawful occupation", the experts said, referring to the July 2024 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the legal consequences of Israel's occupation of Palestinian territory. As such, the experts called for oversight and accountability over all Israeli practices and policies in the territory. "Israel's genocidal destruction in Gaza, which is spreading across the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, serves as the backdrop to its abusive detention programme today," the experts said. UN Member States must end their silence Decrying the silence by Member States following the emergence of testimonies and reports of alleged maltreatment and torture, the experts called for greater pressure to be applied to Israel with a view to implementing a cogent system of access, monitoring and protection of Palestinian detainees. The Human Rights Council must urgently demand the deployment of special procedures mandate holders and the Commission of Inquiry, to facilities holding Palestinians, they said. Special Rapporteurs and other UN rights experts are part of what is known as the Special Procedures. Serving in their individual capacity, they are not UN staff and do not receive a salary for their work. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address With Terror 'Common Currency' in Sudan, Security Council Must Consider Imaginative Ways to End Mass Violence, Impunity, International Criminal Court Prosecutor Says Meetings Coverage Security Council 9697th Meeting (AM) SC/15783 5 August 202 The international community must tackle the climate of impunity that is fuelling mass violence in Sudan, the Security Council heard today as it considered the work of the International Criminal Court in investigating crimes committed in that country. "Terror has become a common currency" in Sudan, Karim Khan, Prosecutor of that Court said, detailing the human rights abuses, including rapes and crimes against children, during his semi-annual briefing to the Council. Pointing to the provision of arms, financial support and political triangulations enabling this, he said these abuses are also fuelled by "this feeling that Darfur or Sudan is a law-free zone in which people can act with abandon", with nothing more than "a flicker of attention from the Council" every six months. Outlining his Office's efforts, he noted cooperation with Sudanese authorities, collection of testimonies, extensive field deployments, engagements with civil society and the processing of digital evidence. Also pointing to his meeting with the Chair of Sudan's Transitional Sovereign Council and efforts to engage with the leadership of the Rapid Support Forces, he said that by his next report, he expected to announce arrests warrants against those who are most responsible. He also noted that final statements are expected this year in the case of Ali Abd-Al-Rahman an alleged senior member of the Janjaweed militia, adding: "The "ICC [the International Criminal Court] is not a talk shop." The Council needs to look at imaginative ways to stop the cycle of violence from persisting in Sudan, he said, adding that the Government of Sudan must expedite its cooperation with the Court. Recalling a Sudanese man who asked him why he is optimistic that the warrant will lead to accountability, he noted that so many parts of the Global South and the North are asking: "Does every human life matter equally?" Membership in the Council is an opportunity to make a huge difference in their lives, he reminded delegates. The Council also heard from the representative of Sudan, who highlighted his Government's political will and commitment to engage with the Court within the principle of judicial complementarity. Citing a 2021 memorandum of understanding signed between his Government and the Office of the Prosecutor, he pointed to domestic efforts to strengthen judicial capacity, including steps undertaken to join the Rome Statute. Sudan seeks further cooperation with the Court, he said, highlighting the Sovereign Transitional Council's establishment of a committee to coordinate with the Court. Drawing attention to the increase in sexual and gender-based violence in the areas targeted by the Rapid Support Forces, he said such violence is used to destabilize safe areas. The establishment of gender units within the family protection centres has led to documenting 191 instances of sexual violence. "Women and children," Malta's delegate observed, "are bearing the brunt of the conflict, particularly through the widespread perpetration of gender-based crimes". Calling on the Prosecutor's Office to prioritize investigations addressing crimes of sexual and gender-based violence and crimes against children, she called for a ceasefire and unimpeded access of humanitarian relief. The representative of the Republic of Korea was among the majority of speakers who commended the rapid progress in the Court's investigation of past and ongoing atrocities in Darfur. Welcoming the probable conclusion of the trial of Ali Abd-Al-Rahman in the first half of 2024, he said that would make it one of the most efficient trials in the Court's history. Noting that it was the first case referred to the Court by the Council, he emphasized that its successful conclusion "will send a message to the world that the Council and the Court are ready to fight against impunity." Echoing that, Ecuador's delegate said the progress in the trial against Ali Abd-Al-Rahman "will set an important precedent against impunity". He also pointed out that the patterns of violence in Darfur are similar to those which played out more than two decades ago and involve many of the same perpetrators the cycle of violence and impunity must end, he emphasized. The representative of the United States, too, noted that the Council heard reports of very similar atrocities against civilians in Darfur two decades ago. "Today, some of the same actors are again victimizing vulnerable communities," he said, adding that this was possible in part because perpetrators were never held accountable 20 years ago. He urged Sudanese authorities to enhance their cooperation with the Court, including by arresting the remaining fugitive, and stressed that external actors must cease providing support to the warring parties. The Council, said the representative of Algeria, must "keep under scrutiny the role of external actors in fuelling the conflict". He also stressed the need for national justice institutions to support Sudan's ownership of the process, highlighting the Juba Peace Agreement as a useful tool. Sudanese ownership of the accountability process must come through regional and African frameworks. Mozambique's delegate also highlighted the Juba Peace Agreement, reminding the Council that it reaffirms the role of an independent and impartial judiciary. A political solution is necessary to address the root causes of the conflict, he said. The victims of the horrendous crimes in Sudan "are not mere statistics; they are human beings that deserve the Council's special attention," he added, welcoming the progress made by the Office of the Prosecutor in various lines of inquiry. However, the representative of the Russian Federation criticized the Prosecutor's successive reports as useless and said there is no point in continuing the "routine hearing of empty reports". "The ICC always has to blame someone else," she said, placing the blame instead on the Court's procrastination. This pseudo-court, after 20 years of inaction, with a go-ahead from its Western masters, has suddenly become interested in the situation in Sudan. Urging Council members to focus on assistance to national judicial bodies, she noted that no one from the Western military or leadership was held accountable for atrocities in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as for the military aggression against Libya. Briefing KARIM KHAN, Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court , stressing that it has been a dark and tragic six months for Sudan since his last briefing to the Council, noted the mass scale of crimes in that country, including rapes and crimes against children. "Terror has become a common currency," he said, adding that these profound human rights abuses are being fuelled by the provision of arms, financial support and political triangulations. But they are also fuelled by a sense of impunity, "this feeling that Darfur or Sudan is a law-free zone in which people can act with abandon", with nothing more than "a flicker of attention from the Council" every six months, he said. "To those on the ground in Darfur today, to the members of the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, to those also fighting alongside them, to those who give orders, to those who feel there are no limits to what they can do, I wish to send a clear message: my Office is moving with urgency and focus to ensure that you will be held to account for your crimes," he pledged. Highlighting the many tangible steps his Office has taken, he noted cooperation with Sudanese authorities in addressing several longstanding requests. Through the collection of testimonies via extensive field deployments to Chad as well as engagements with Sudanese civil society, the Office has been able to piece together "who is responsible for unleashing this hell on earth", he said. The Office has also expanded its ability to process audio, video and other forms of digital evidence, he said, adding that by his next report, he expected to announce arrest warrants against those who are most responsible. "The "ICC [the International Criminal Court] is not a talk shop," he stressed. The Council needs to look at imaginative ways to stop this cycle of violence from persisting. Turning to the case of Ali Abd-Al-Rahman an alleged senior member of the Janjaweed militia charged with 31 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity he said one more defence witness will testify in September and final statements are expected before the end of the year. The Court has now heard from more than 100 witnesses, with his Office submitting over 1,500 items of evidence in support of its case, he noted. Recalling a Sudanese man who asked him why he is optimistic that warrants will lead to accountability, he urged States to support the Office's work more decisively. Sudan's Government must expedite its cooperation with the Court, he said, pointing to the outstanding arrest warrant for Ahmed Harun. During his meeting with the Chair of Sudan's Transitional Sovereign Council, Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, last year, he received a number of commitments, he said, also thanking the new focal point for cooperation appointed following this meeting. He also noted his efforts to engage with the leadership of the Rapid Support Forces. Given the absence of cooperation from them, he said, his Office has also been engaging with the Arab communities in Darfur, despite some initial hesitations from that community. This is a defining moment in history, he said, noting the increasing concentration of suffering around the world. Increasingly, the cry raised from so many parts of the Global South and the North is "does every human life matter equally?" No representative will be here [in the Council] forever, but being here is an opportunity to make a huge difference in the lives of so many people around the world, he reminded delegates. Statements The representative of Japan highlighted the International Criminal Court's critical role in ending impunity by recalling the words of Court President Tomoko Akane during her recent visit to New York: the Court would "work to bring justice to victims of atrocities by carrying out fair and impartial proceedings against individuals who have committed crimes" and "the ICC's proceedings will serve as a message that atrocities must not be repeated". He welcomed the positive steps taken by the Sudanese authorities, including addressing requests for assistance by the Office of the Prosecutor and the issuance of visas, expressing hope that the Court will reach judgment for the trial of Mr. Abd-Al-Rahman in 2025. "The atrocities in Darfur in the past and the ongoing violence in Sudan should never be dismissed," he said, stressing that "accountability for past crimes is central to preventing future atrocities". Tokyo is committed to preserving the ICC's integrity, he said, rejecting any threats to or measures against the Court, its officials and those cooperating with it. The representative of Switzerland said atrocities and hostilities in Sudan continue unabated, with independent reports estimating that 2.5 million people will die from famine caused by the current conflict by the end of September, with Darfur being the hardest-hit region. Underlining the importance of accountability for the crimes committed since 2002, he said that the Court aims to restore hope to victims and put an end to the cycle of violence. Accordingly, he noted the significant progress made over the past eight months and welcomed the Prosecutor's decision to investigate incidents arising from the current hostilities, including allegations of crimes of sexual and gender-based violence and crimes against children. Also, cooperation is essential to enable the Court to fulfil its mandate, he pointed out, commending the support received from the Sudanese authorities. "The full support of the entire international community is required without further delay to ensure that justice is done for all the victims of this conflict and that accountability is ensured throughout the entire territory of Sudan," he stated. The representative of Guyana expressed grave concern about the continued massive scale of crimes committed in Darfur, particularly gender-based crimes, crimes against children and indiscriminate targeting of civilian populations and objects. She welcomed the Prosecutor's Office progress in investigating these and the increased collection of information and evidence, including through field deployments in Chad, Port Sudan, and other locations. Also welcoming the intensified engagement with civil society organizations and affected communities, she said continued cooperation between the Sudanese authorities and the Prosecutor's Office is critical. Noting the execution of outstanding requests for assistance and the provision of visas for staff members of the Office, she urged the Sudanese authorities to take all necessary steps to secure the arrest and surrender of all fugitives. "Ensuring accountability for atrocities is crucial in preventing future crimes and building a foundation for lasting peace, and all efforts must be made to this end," she stressed. All parties must stop further violations and ensure civilians and civilian objects are protected, she said, and the international community must scale up humanitarian aid for Sudan. The representative of China said that the Court should continue to be guided by the Rome Statute and its mandate given by the Council. It must exercise its powers independently, objectively and impartially and abide by the principle of complementarity, and fully respect the judicial sovereignty and legitimate concerns of Sudan, where the conflict has been going on for 16 months. When dealing with the Darfur issue, the Court should consider the complexity and sensitivity of the realities in Sudan and the region and refrain from unwarranted intervention. Beijing supports Sudan's effort to improve its administration of justice and develop national capacity to combat impunity. The international community should help the country revitalize its transitional justice institutions. When handling cases involving international and regional hotspot issues, "the Court should refrain from politicization and double standards and apply international law equitably," he emphasized. The representative of Slovenia said that "what we are witnessing in Sudan is a human and humanitarian catastrophe", noting the unprecedented scale of suffering, mass atrocities and displacement, starvation, indiscriminate targeting of civilians, attacks on internally displaced persons camps, sexual and gender-based violence and crimes against children. "It is unimaginable and unforgivable what the people of Darfur have been subject to in the last two decades," he stated. In Darfur, victims face atrocities from perpetrators, many of whom have never been held accountable for the crimes they committed 20 years ago. Spotlighting the Court's efforts in achieving justice, he commended the Prosecutor's efforts to engage with the civil society. "The victims and survivors must have the opportunity to speak and give evidence," he stressed, adding that the same applies to the witnesses. In this regard, the progress made in Ali Kushayb's trial is pivotal. He also expressed hope that effective investigations, victim protection and bringing perpetrators to trial will also encourage the silent survivors to come forward especially victims of conflict-related sexual violence. The representative of Algeria said the path to transitional justice and accountability cannot be separated from the task of stabilizing Sudan. Stressing the need for national justice institutions to support Sudan's ownership of the process, he said it is vital to strengthen existing legal frameworks to identify inclusive paths to accountability. The Juba Peace Agreement represents a useful tool, he said, adding that Sudanese ownership of such a process must come through regional and African frameworks. Further, the Council must "keep under scrutiny the role of external actors in fuelling the conflict", he said, adding that this is vital to identify responsibility and formulate the right responses. Council resolution 2736 (2024) remains important in this regard, he said, noting that the clashes between the warring parties have resulted in the deterioration of the humanitarian situation as well as food insecurity. Expressing concern about the siege imposed by the Rapid Support Forces in El Fasher, he called for more support for all diplomatic efforts being deployed by the African Union, the United Nations and other parties. The representative of the Republic of Korea noted the rapid progress of the Court's investigation of past and ongoing atrocities in Darfur, including the deployment by the Office of multiple investigative and outreach teams to the field. With the availability of new evidence and avenues for further cooperation from States and individuals, the Office anticipates tangible progress in the next reporting period. The trial of Ali Abd-Al-Rahman is likely to conclude in the first half of 2024, marking one of the most efficient trials in the Court's history. This progress is significant as it was the first case referred to the Court by this Council, he said, adding: "The successful conclusion of this case will send a message to the world that the Council and the Court are ready to fight against impunity for crimes that could impair international peace and security." The representative of Ecuador underlined that the continuation of the armed conflict in Sudan has caused an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, marked by reports of widespread attacks against the civilian population, including gender crimes and crimes against children. "The patterns of violence being witnessed in Darfur are similar to those which played out more than two decades ago," he said, adding that they involve many of the perpetrators of the atrocities committed at that time. The cycle of violence and impunity must end, he asserted, commending the progress made by the Office of the Prosecutor and encouraging its team to continue collecting evidence on the crimes that were allegedly committed in El Geneina and El Fasher. Regarding the lines of investigation into crimes committed since 2003, he highlighted the progress in the trial against Ali Abd-Al-Rahman, noting that it "will set an important precedent against impunity". The representative of Mozambique said the victims of the horrendous crimes in Sudan "are not mere statistics; they are human beings that deserve the Council's special attention." Welcoming the progress made by the Office of the Prosecutor in various lines of inquiry, he said an independent and impartial judiciary, as reaffirmed in the Juba Peace Agreement, is essential. "While justice is crucial, we recognize that a political solution is necessary to address the root causes of the conflict," he said, calling on all parties to seek a negotiated settlement. Welcoming the cooperation between the Office of the Prosecutor and the Sudanese authorities, as well as cooperation with third States, international and regional organizations and civil society organizations, he said, effective cooperation, while respecting the sovereignty of Sudan, is critical. Strengthening the rule of law, supporting peace processes and ensuring stability are vital steps toward the Sudan's long-term prosperity, he added. The representative of the United States said that the Council heard reports of very similar atrocities against civilians in Darfur two decades ago when innocent populations bore the brunt of a campaign of collective punishment. "Today, some of the same actors are again victimizing vulnerable communities a circumstance possible in part because perpetrators were never held accountable for committing atrocities 20 years ago," he said. His country has long supported accountability in the existing cases before the court, including the ongoing trial of Ali Abd-Al-Rahman. While Washington, D.C., is encouraged by reports that the Sudanese authorities are beginning to cooperate with the Court, they must do more, including arresting the remaining fugitive and permitting Court teams access and protection to conduct investigative activities within the country. "The human catastrophe in Sudan demands decisive action by the entire international community," he said, adding that external actors must cease providing support to the warring parties and instead turn their attention to peace talks. The representative of France expressed concern over the continuation of clashes in the town of El Fasher in North Darfur and by their extension into Sennar State. Faced with the scale of the allegations of crimes committed in Darfur and the rest of the country, the parties must make all efforts to protect the civilian population, she asserted. Recalling that the parties took part in recent negotiations on humanitarian issues conducted under the aegis of the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, Ramtane Lamamra she stressed that these efforts must continue to achieve a peaceful settlement of the conflict. Also, all foreign actors must refrain from fuelling the conflict by arming, financing or logistically supporting the parties. "The fight against impunity contributes to restoring peace to Sudan," she observed, commending the increased attention to crimes committed against children and sexual crimes. She also welcomed the significant progress made by the Office of the Prosecutor in its investigations into widespread allegations of ongoing international crimes in Darfur through extensive field deployments in Chad and Port Sudan to collect testimonies and evidence. The representative of Malta , condemning all violations of international humanitarian, and international human rights law in Darfur, called for a ceasefire and the full, rapid, and unimpeded access of humanitarian relief. Welcoming the continued progress in the Al-Rahman case, as well as the continued investigations in the Al Bashir, Hussein, and Harun cases, she commended the steps taken by the Sudanese authorities, including the issuance of visas and the engagement on the pending requests for assistance. Welcoming the Prosecutor's Office's engagement with local civil society organizations who are gathering evidence and documenting crimes, she also welcomed efforts to engage with refugees in Chad. "Women and children are bearing the brunt of the conflict, particularly through the widespread perpetration of gender-based crimes," she noted, adding that the Office must prioritize investigations addressing crimes of sexual and gender-based violence and crimes against children. This, alongside a transition to democratic rule, is indispensable for a durable peace in Sudan, she emphasized. The representative of the Russian Federation criticized the Prosecutor's successive reports as "useless", expressing outrage that since 2005 the Council has had to spend scarce time and resources every six months to consider them. Mr. Khan again justifies the ineffectiveness of his body by citing difficult situations and a lack of resources and cooperation. "The ICC always has to blame someone else," she said, adding that for Mr. Khan, this is a well-worn tactic. She rejected double standards and hypocrisy, citing a large amount of proof of crimes committed by North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) countries, which however were "deliberately swept under the carpet by the pseudo court and its puppet prosecutors". No one from the Western military, let alone their leaders, was held accountable for atrocities in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as for the military aggression against Libya. The 20 years of the Court's procrastination on Darfur and its complicity in the destruction of Libyan statehood means that concrete conclusions must be made. The Council should never again refer new situations to this pseudo court and must withdraw the Darfur and Libya cases from the Court. "We don't see any point in continuing the routine hearing of empty reports", she said. Now this pseudo-court, after 20 years of inaction, with a go-ahead from its Western masters, has suddenly become interested in the situation in Sudan. "The Court's generally dubious track record speaks volumes that justice, fairness and concern for victims is simply empty rhetoric for this court," she said, urging Council members to "stop spending time on useless presentations of the prosecutors and focus on assistance to national judicial bodies". The representative of the United Kingdom sounded the alarm over the escalating violence across Sudan, particularly in Darfur, stressing that the ongoing fighting in El Fasher has caused significant civilian loss of life and has forced thousands to flee their homes. There are credible reports of atrocities taking place in Darfur and elsewhere in Sudan, including the recruitment of child soldiers, conflict-related sexual violence, indiscriminate use of explosive weapons in civilian areas and violence targeted at specific ethnic groups. Against this backdrop, he welcomed the progress that the Office is making to advance accountability through continued engagement with Sudanese civil society organizations and the extensive deployment of investigators to Chad to collect further testimonial evidence. He also spotlighted some signs of improved cooperation from those in power in Sudan through the provision of visas and the facilitation of a field visit to Port Sudan, and the progress in the trial of the former Janjaweed commander, Ali Abd-Al-Rahman, also known as Ali Kushayb. The representative of Sierra Leone , Council President for August, speaking in his national capacity, commended the Prosecutor's work and reaffirmed commitment for an independent and effective International Criminal Court. Expressing concern about the profound human tragedy in Sudan, he welcomed the significant progress in investigating alleged crimes committed in Al Geneina and its surrounding areas in West Darfur as well as the monitoring and preservation of evidence relating to crimes in El Fasher. A staggering 10 million people are displaced, including 2 million who have fled the country. This massive displacement has left over half of the population in need of humanitarian aid. "Incredibly, the ongoing situation in Darfur since the outbreak of hostilities in Khartoum on 15 April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces and affiliated armed groups mirrors the findings of the International Commission of Inquiry on Darfur established almost 20 years ago," he said. Accountability for past crimes is crucial to addressing recent and ongoing violations, he said, adding that it is crucial to address the underlying factors. Highlighting the nexus between peace and justice, he called for a ceasefire in Sudan. The representative of Sudan underscored cooperation between his country and the Court, citing a memorandum of understanding signed between the current Government of Sudan and the Office of the Prosecutor in August 2021. He also highlighted some domestic efforts to strengthen its judicial capacity, including steps undertaken to join the Rome Statute and some legislative amendments, by which the four crimes under the Court's jurisdiction have been domesticated in national laws. The Prosecutor visited Sudan a few times and met with Sudan's top officials. The Prosecutor met with refugees in the Darfur states and made his briefing from Sudan a first in the Court's history. "This represents the political will of the Government to deal with the ICC within the principle of judicial complementarity," he said, pledging that Sudan seeks further cooperation with the Court. He said that the sovereign Transitional Council established a committee to coordinate with the Court. The committee has prepared responses to 38 pending requests. Turning to an increase in sexual and gender-based violence in the areas targeted by the Rapid Support Forces, he said such violence is used to destabilize safe areas and force civilians to vacate their homes. An agreement was reached between the ministers of social development and the interior to establish gender units within the family protection centers. This led to documenting 191 instances of sexual violence. He said that the number of criminal claims on the human rights violations reached 12,470, and 246 arrest orders have been issued for the leaders and members of the Rapid Support Forces militia, with 50 of those claims referred to the national judiciary, and 23 cases already adjudicated. These statistics would help the Prosecutor in his investigations. Mr. KHAN, responding to questions and comments, emphasized that both the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces have clear and independent obligations to respect international humanitarian law. "Too many innocent Darfuris, too many innocent Sudanese are suffering beyond bearing," he said, adding that the UN Charter must be placed above national interests. "We must view [the people of Sudan] as if they are our children, brothers, sisters, parents, family," he stated, stressing that if there is a ceasefire, the potential of the Rome Statute can come into play. However, he said, until that time, "we must do what we are doing applying the law to the facts that we are seeing". And, unfortunately, that is telling a tale of misery. Noting that this case tests the Court's and the Council's fundamental principles of humanity that were crystallized in the UN Charter, he declared: "History is watching us all." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General - on Bangladesh United Nations Secretary-General 05 August 2024 Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General The Secretary-General deplores the further loss of life during protests in Bangladesh over the weekend. He continues to closely follow developments in the country, including the Chief of Army Staff's announcement regarding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and plans for the formation of an Interim Government. He urges calm and restraint by all sides and emphasizes the importance of a peaceful, orderly and democratic transition. The Secretary-General stands in full solidarity with the people of Bangladesh and calls for the full respect of their human rights. He continues to underscore the need for a full, independent, impartial and transparent investigation into all acts of violence. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pacific Partnership 2024-2 Kicks Off in Legazpi, Philippines US Navy 05 August 2024 From Petty Officer 1st Class Ryan D. McLearnon LEGAZPI, Philippines -- The Pacific Partnership 2024-2 (PP24-2) humanitarian mission kicked off in Legazpi, Albay, with an opening ceremony at the Legazpi City Expo Center, Aug. 2, 2024. The ceremony featured guest speakers; the Hon. Oscar Robert H. Cristobal, Vice Mayor of Legazpi, Capt. Daniel Keeler, PP24-2 mission commander, Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines and Mr. Carlos Ante, Legazpi City Administrator. "Pacific Partnership in Legazpi promotes strong military and civil partnerships that reinforce mutual understanding and interoperability between the Philippines and U.S., and makes us better equipped to handle various challenges," said Keeler. "This region is prone to natural disasters like typhoons, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Our enhanced cooperation today will make us better prepared tomorrow, should we need to collectively respond in crisis." The PP24-2 Philippines mission stop, which runs from Aug. 1 through Aug. 14, will provide tailored medical care focusing on subject-matter exchanges and community education; construction and reconstruction of multiple schoolhouses and knowledge exchanges with exercises covering disaster response and humanitarian assistance. Additionally, the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band will perform in a variety of community engagements around the city. Initially, Pacific Partnership efforts were heavily focused on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) but has evolved over the years to use an all-hazards approach with expanded lines of effort in medical and public health, engineering, and host nation outreach. Individual projects and events are synchronized with the host nation and are organized according to their requests and needs. "The City of Legazpi extends its warmest welcomes and unending gratitude to all the participating nations behind the 2024 Pacific Partnership whose contributions have made significant impacts to the people of Legazpi," said the Hon. Oscar Robert H. Christobal, vice mayor of Legazpi City. "We look forward to our continued partnership. Dios Mabalos!" Disaster emergencies, both natural and man-made, remain an ever-present threat to life, security, stability, and prosperity throughout the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility. "Through various exchanges and hands-on trainings, this year's HADR activities are focused on increasing the Urban Search and Rescue capacity by 30 percent and testing the city's Tsunami Response Plan for the first time," said U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Flor Joseph, PP24-2HADR line of effort lead. "We are thankful to the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office for collaborating with us to develop a plan that best serves their community, drawing on their invaluable insights and perspectives about what works best locally." Pacific Partnership fosters multilateral cooperation and emphasizes a multinational whole-of-government approach, by planning and executing operations with U.S. and partner nation militaries, interagencies, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations. This subsequently provides a strong foundation of trust and enhances our collective ability to respond in times of crisis. Born out of the devastation brought by the December 2004 tsunami that swept through parts of South and Southeast Asia, Pacific Partnership began as a military-led humanitarian response to one of the world's most catastrophic natural disasters. Building on the success and goodwill of this operation the U.S. helped spearhead the inaugural Pacific Partnership mission in 2006. This mission leveraged partner nation militaries and non-governmental organizations proficiencies to expand disaster relief capacity in Bangladesh, Indonesia, the Philippines and Timor-Leste. "On behalf of the U.S. contingency, I thank the Legazpi local government, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and people of Legazpi for their heartwarming welcome," added Keeler. "Their invitation and partnerships are crucial for maintaining peace, security and prosperity in the region. Pacific Partnership harnesses our collective strength to build a resilient future, ensuring that when the earth shakes, we stand firm in our readiness." Pacific Partnership, now in its 20th iteration, is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Each year the mission team works collectively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability capabilities, increase maritime security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US completes withdrawal from last base in Niger By Carla Babb August 05, 2024 The U.S. has completed its withdrawal of military forces and assets from its last military base in Niger, the U.S. Department of Defense and the Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of Niger announced in a joint statement Monday. The completion marks the end of the United States' counterterrorism mission in the country, even as violent extremism continues to increase across the Sahel region. Only a "handful" of American military personnel are still in Niger, a U.S. defense official told VOA following the announcement. Those who remain are working out of the embassy, including the top American officer overseeing the effort, Maj. Gen. Kenneth Ekman. "It's not mission complete yet because of a few administrative tasks, but for practical purposes, both bases are now in Nigerien hands," a U.S. defense official told VOA on Monday following the announcement. The effort formally began on May 19, when U.S. and Nigerien leaders agreed to a phased withdrawal of American forces from Niger after being in the country for more than a decade. Fight against radical Islam American forces were deployed in Niger to help local militaries combat Islamist terrorists in the Sahel. At the time, officials set a mid-September deadline for the withdrawal's completion. The U.S. military base in Niamey, known as Air Base 101, was turned over to Niger forces in July. Air Base 201 in Agadez was handed over to Nigerien forces on Monday. "The effective cooperation and communication between the U.S. and Nigerien armed forces ensured that this turnover was finished ahead of schedule and without complications," the U.S. and Niger militaries said in the joint statement. The U.S. had used the two military bases to monitor various terror groups, including Islamic State and al-Qaida. Air Base 201 in Agadez cost the U.S. $110 million to build, and the U.S. began its drone operations there in 2019. Niger's natural resources have increased its importance to global powers, and its location had provided the U.S. with the ability to conduct counterterror operations throughout much of West Africa. Countries in the region, including Niger, Mali, Nigeria and Burkina Faso, have seen an expansive rise in jihadi movements. According to the Global Terrorism Index, an annual report covering terrorist incidents worldwide, more than half of the deaths caused by terrorism last year were in the Sahel. Niger's neighbor, Burkina Faso, suffered the most, with 1,907 fatalities from terrorism in 2023. U.S. officials have acknowledged the loss of the two bases in Niger is a blow to its counterterrorism efforts and the broader security situation in the Sahel. Unless the U.S. can find another base to use in West Africa, counterterror drones will likely have to spend most of their fuel supply flying thousands of kilometers from U.S. bases in Italy or Djibouti, severely limiting their time over the targets and their ability to gather intelligence. Discussions are underway with other West African nations, but the talks are still in the very early stages, according to senior U.S. defense officials who spoke to reporters about the sensitive national security efforts on the condition of anonymity. Coup forced withdrawal Tensions between the U.S. and Niger began in 2023 when Niger's military junta removed the democratically elected president from power. After months of delay, the Biden administration formally declared in October that the military takeover in Niger was a coup, a determination that prevented Niger from receiving a significant amount of U.S. military and foreign assistance. In March, after tense meetings between U.S. representatives and Niger's ruling military council, known as the CNSP, the junta called the U.S. military presence illegal and announced it was ending an agreement that allowed American forces to be based in the country. During that meeting, the U.S. and Niger fundamentally disagreed about Niger's desire to supply Iran with uranium and work more closely with Russian military forces. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Terror groups poised to fill void with US forces gone from Niger By Jeff Seldin August 05, 2024 The U.S. abandonment this week of its $110 million drone base in Niger, once seen as a key hub for counterterrorism efforts, adds to a growing list of Western withdrawals, all steadily ceding ground to terror groups affiliated with Islamic State and al-Qaida. Officials with U.S. Africa Command announced the final departure of troops from Air Base 201 in Agadez on Monday, completing a process that began last year when a military junta overthrew Niger's democratically elected president and demanded U.S. forces leave. The U.S. withdrawal follows the pullout of French forces from Niger late last year and from neighboring Mali in 2022. A five-country alliance to fight terror groups across the Sahel, likewise, collapsed in recent years. And intelligence gathered by United Nations member states suggests the terror groups those Western forces were hoping to curtail have made the most of their growing absence. The al-Qaida-linked Jama'a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin, also known as JNIM, has become "the most significant threat in the Sahel," according to a U.N. Sanctions Monitoring Team report released last week. JNIM commands 5,000 to 6,000 fighters, the report said, and "continues to expand, mostly in Burkina Faso, but also significantly in Mali and the Niger." And while the intelligence suggests JNIM has not given up on striking Western interests in the Sahel, the group's ability to expand and consolidate territorial gains could put it in position "to establish an emirate from central Mali to northern Benin," the report warned. The Islamic State terror group's affiliates in the region have also made gains. The U.N. report warns that IS's West African Province, also known as ISWAP, "has grown in both importance and capability," working with IS core leadership to establish terror cells and networks in Nigeria and beyond. Estimates from U.N. member states put the number of ISWAP fighters at between 4,000 and 7,000. But much of their focus has been on supporting Islamic State in the Greater Sahara, or ISGS, with 2,000 to 3,000 fighters seeking to expand beyond their entrenched positions in Mali and the border regions of Burkina Faso and Niger. Making matters more precarious, the U.N. report warned that a tenuous detente (an unofficial agreement) between the al-Qaida-affiliated JNIM and ISGS appears to be holding, "with the continued trend of the groups taking and holding larger areas of contiguous territory in the Sahel." Some analysts who study the region caution that the trendlines are unlikely to change. "What we're witnessing right now is the direct consequence of all the coups in the region and the fact that all these troops have been driven out the French, Belgians, MINUSMA [United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali], African Union, the Americans," said Pieter Van Ostaeyen, a Belgian Arabist who studies Islamic extremism. "It's like a carousel won't stop," he told VOA. "It's like a downward spiral." Van Ostaeyen said that is reflected in the number of attacks claimed or attributed to JNIM and the IS affiliates. According to his data, the groups averaged 125 attacks per month over the first five months of this year, compared to just over 50 attacks per month during the same period a year ago. And Van Ostaeyen sees no indications that any of the region's militaries have what it takes to stop the spread of violence. "Right now, it's like the Islamic State and JNIM are partly dividing Mali and Burkina Faso. Niger will fall completely to the jihadis, as well," he said. Liam Karr, the Africa team lead with the Washington-based Critical Threats Project at the American Enterprise Institute, also sees little reason for hope. "In many cases, due to the illicit networks that a lot of these terror groups sit on, they might be more wealthy than a lot of the actual countries that they're operating against," Karr told VOA. There are also massive concerns about the role Russian official forces and paramilitary forces, like the Wagner Group or the recently formed Africa Corps, are playing in countries like Mali and Niger as Moscow seeks to gain influence. "We see that Wagner has been very, very progressive at trying to establish control in African countries," said U.S. Africa Command's General Michael Langley, briefing reporters this past June. "This does not enhance security or stability," he said. Additionally, there are also concerns about the capacities of the Russian forces in Africa. Western officials have long warned the main goal of groups like Wagner has been to help Russia secure access to natural resources. And some recent events, like an attack by separatists in northern Mali that is said to have killed more than 80 Wagner mercenaries, have cast further doubts on Russian competence. Analysts like Karr also argue that even if Russia wanted to help push back against terror groups, the numbers are lacking. "The Russian footprint there is much smaller," Karr said. "Especially in somewhere like Niger, from a quantity standpoint, you have roughly 100, maybe, to 200 Russian forces taking the place of what was 1,500 French troops and over 1,000 U.S. service members." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN investigation: 9 staffers 'may have' been involved in October 7 attack By Margaret Besheer August 05, 2024 United Nations internal investigation has concluded that nine of 19 Palestinian staffers accused by Israel "may have been involved" in the October 7 terror attacks in southern Israel, while insufficient or no evidence was found regarding 10 others. "The employment of these individuals will be terminated in the interests of the agency," U.N. deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq told reporters of the nine, in announcing the conclusion of the monthslong investigation. All of the 19 were employed by UNRWA, the U.N. agency that assists Palestinian refugees. Haq said of the remaining 10 cases investigated by the Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS), that there was "insufficient" evidence obtained to support allegations that nine staffers were involved, while there was "no evidence" to support allegations against a 10th individual. "With respect to these 10 cases, appropriate measures will be taken in due course, in conformity with UNRWA regulations and rules," Haq said, without elaborating. On January 26, UNRWA Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini immediately fired nine of 12 individuals Israel initially accused of involvement in the October terror attacks and an internal investigation was launched. At the time, officials said one staffer was confirmed dead, and they were clarifying the identity of two others. UNRWA said it received information from Israeli authorities about five additional cases in March and two more in April, which were added to the OIOS investigation. When news broke of the accusations in late January, more than a dozen donor states, including its largest funder, the United States, suspended their financial support for UNRWA, which has been on the front lines in Gaza, assisting more than 2 million Palestinians in the besieged territory. Israel's U.N. ambassador dismissed the report's conclusions in a post on social media platform X, saying it is "too little and too late." Gilad Erdan repeated his call for UNRWA to be shuttered and for the U.N. secretary-general to resign. "Israel needs to act quickly now to outlaw UNRWA, declare it a terrorist organization and expel its leaders from Israeli territory and not allow them to enter," Erdan wrote. Israel's parliament is considering a bill to designate UNRWA as a terrorist organization and ban it in the country. In a statement Monday, UNRWA chief Lazzarini reiterated his condemnation of the October 7 attacks "in the strongest possible terms," and repeated his call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. "UNRWA is committed to continue upholding the fundamental principles and values of the United Nations, including the humanitarian principle of neutrality, and to ensuring that all its staff abide by the Agency's policy on outside and political activities," Lazzarini said. In response to reporters' questions, U.N. spokesperson Haq noted that evidence presented by Israel to U.N. investigators in support of their allegations remained in Israel's hands. "OIOS was not able to independently authenticate most of the information provided to it that was in the hands of the Israeli authorities," he said. Haq said that investigators traveled to Israel, but for security reasons did not go to Gaza to interview the accused, adding that in some cases they were able to request and receive video statements from individuals in which they responded to a series of questions addressing the allegations. He stressed that the United Nations probe was not a criminal one, but a fact-finding mission to determine whether internal administrative rules and procedures had been broken, and what disciplinary sanctions might be warranted. The internal, confidential report was sent to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on July 31. Following the results of an external, independent review of UNRWA's neutrality by former French foreign minister Catherine Colonna in April, most donors, except Washington, resumed their funding to the agency. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees has about 13,000 Palestinian staffers just in the Gaza Strip. More than 200 have been killed since the war started in October following Hamas' terror attack inside Israel that killed 1,200 people. Nearly 40,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war, according to the territory's health ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Biden aims to defuse Mideast tensions By Anita Powell August 05, 2024 U.S. President Joe Biden met with his national security team Monday and spoke with Jordan's king to defuse heightened tensions in the Middle East after a pair of high-profile assassinations last week. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, meanwhile, warned Israel would exact a "heavy price" if attacked by Iran or its proxies in the region. The White House said over the weekend that it was committed to a hostage-release and cease-fire deal that had so far been elusive but emphasized that Washington stood ready to respond and had surged military resources to the region. Biden aims to defuse Mideast tensions "We still believe a cease-fire deal is the best way to bring this war to an end," John Kirby, White House national security spokesman, said. "It's also, we believe, very possible. We still believe the gaps are narrow enough to close. The other thing that we've been doing since the 7th of October is making sure that not only Israel has what it needs to defend itself, but that this war doesn't escalate to become something broader." Analysts say this is a tense moment. "I think one of the reasons that this is also scary, to be honest, for everybody, is that it isn't clear what the United States can do when we're on the brink like this," said Natasha Hall, a senior fellow with the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Advocates for the American Muslim community, which has criticized Biden's staunch support for Israel, say Washington should take a firm line on Israel's aggression in Gaza. "The United States possesses a wide array of diplomatic and political tools to hold Israel accountable, whether that's withholding aid, ammunition, weapons, political support or sanctioning more of Israel's far-right settlers that have been engaged in violence," said Robert McCaw, Government Affairs Department director at the Council on American-Islamic Relations. Netanyahu said Israel is ready to meet challenges. "Iran and its proxies seek to surround us with a stranglehold of terror on seven fronts," he said. "Their visible aggression is insatiable, but Israel is not helpless. We are determined to stand against them on every front, in every arena, far and near. Anyone who murders our citizens, anyone who harms our country, will be held accountable. He will pay a very heavy price." Jordan Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi recently paid a rare visit to Tehran, and Biden on Monday spoke to Jordan's King Abdullah II about de-escalating tensions in the region. Hall says diplomacy may be the best way forward. "What he [Safadi] wanted to do was play essentially a mediating role in much the same way that Qatar has been doing in recent months," she said. "Just speak to Iran, try to address their concerns, but also to be essentially a conduit for the United States to ensure that there's some kind of open channel during these particularly scary times. "And I think that that is more necessary than ever before, since the United States does not directly speak to high-ranking Iranian officials. And so, they are depending on these kinds of regional mediators, probably more so than ever before," Hall said. So, with nearly 40,000 people dead, Gaza in ruins, and Lebanon and Iran on high alert, the world is waiting to see what happens next. A reporter asked Biden about one of the key players in the conflict as he left church on Sunday. "Do you think Iran will stand down, sir?" the reporter said. "I hope so," Biden replied. "I don't know." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Biden holds security talks as tensions heighten in Middle East By VOA News August 05, 2024 President Joe Biden discussed tensions in the Middle East with his national security team and with Jordan's King Abdullah II on Monday, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that his country will exact a "heavy price" if attacked by Iran or its proxies in the region. A spokesperson for Iran's foreign ministry said at a news briefing Monday that Iran "does not seek to aggravate tensions in the region," but that it has the right to punish Israel following the attack last week that killed Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Iran blames Israel for Haniyeh's killing, which came hours after an Israeli airstrike in Beirut that killed a commander from the militant group Hezbollah, which like Hamas is backed by Iran. Netanyahu said Sunday that Iran and its proxies were seeking to surround Israel "in a stranglehold of terrorism." "We are determined to stand against them on every front and in every arena near and far," Netanyahu said. "Whoever seeks to harm us will pay a very heavy price." After Abdullah spoke with Biden, the Jordanian embassy in Washington said the king "stressed the need for de-escalation in the region and establishing comprehensive calm to prevent a regional war." Abdullah "said that reaching an immediate and permanent cease-fire to end the catastrophe in Gaza [the Israeli war with Hamas] is the immediate step that must be fully implemented to safeguard regional security and prevent further war and conflict." The White House said Biden "affirmed unwavering U.S. support for Jordan as a partner and ally in promoting regional peace and security." Turkey and Japan advised their citizens Monday to leave Lebanon, joining the United States, France, Canada, Britain and Jordan in warning of the potential for danger. Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi was in Iran on Sunday where he urged an end to escalation and for the region to live in "peace, security and stability." U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke Sunday with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant, reiterating "ironclad U.S. support for Israel's security and right to self-defense against threats from Iran" and Iranian proxies such as the Lebanon-based Hezbollah and Yemen-based Houthis. "They discussed U.S. force posture moves that the Department is taking to bolster protection for U.S. forces, support the defense of Israel, and deter and de-escalate broader tensions in the region," the Pentagon said in a statement. The United States is moving an aircraft carrier group and more air assets to the region, in a move the Pentagon announced Friday. Jonathan Finer, the White House National Security Council deputy adviser, told CBS' "Face the Nation" show, "Our goal is de-escalation. Our goal is deterrence. Our goal is defense of Israel." U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke Sunday with the G7 foreign ministers to discuss the urgent need to calm tensions in the Mideast. A State Department spokesperson said Blinken and his counterparts "reiterated their commitment to Israel's security and urged maximum restraint from all parties to keep the conflict from escalating." The Israeli military said Monday it carried out an airstrike in southern Lebanon in response to Hezbollah launching drones in cross-border attacks. Hezbollah said it used drones to target an Israeli military base. Israel and Hezbollah have traded near-daily fire since the Israeli-Hamas war started in Gaza nearly 10 months ago. Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas in retaliation for its October 7 terror attack that killed 1,200 people and led to the capture of 250 hostages. Israel's counteroffensive has killed at least 39,600 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the territory's health ministry, while Israel says the death toll includes thousands of Hamas fighters it has killed. Haniyeh, Hamas' political chief, was the group's lead negotiator in efforts to reach an agreement on an elusive cease-fire. His killing raised questions about the continued viability of efforts by Qatari, Egyptian and U.S. mediators to broker a truce and exchange of hostages held by Hamas and Palestinian prisoners jailed by Israel. Some information for this story was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese scientists are conducting monitoring, evaluation and research on biodiversity conservation and ecological restoration of the alpine wetlands in southwest China. Click to learn more about their latest efforts. Produced by Xinhua Global Service Bangladesh prime minister resigns, flees to India By VOA News August 05, 2024 Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned Monday and fled to India, ending her 15-year rule amid weeks of deadly protests against a quota system for government jobs. Hasina abandoned her official residence in Dhaka, the capital, boarded a military helicopter with her sister, and flew across the border to India the day after nearly 100 people were killed in clashes with authorities. Her ultimate destination was not immediately clear. Bangladesh's army chief General Waker-uz-Zaman, speaking on state television, told the predominantly Muslim South Asian nation of 170 million people that Hasina, 76, had resigned and that the military would form an interim government. General Waker-uz-Zaman, dressed in military fatigues, said, "The country has suffered a lot, the economy has been hit, many people have been killed it is time to stop the violence. I hope after my speech, the situation will improve." The army chief said he had held talks with the main opposition parties and civil society members but not Hasina's Awami League. He said the military would investigate the crackdown on student-led protests that has fueled outrage against the government and left at least 300 dead since early July. "Keep faith in the military, we will investigate all the killings and punish the responsible," he said. "I have ordered that no army and police will indulge in any kind of firing." The main target of the protests has been a quota system that set aside up to 30% of government jobs for family members of veterans who fought in Bangladesh's 1971 war of independence against Pakistan, while also favoring those with connections to the prime minister's Awami League. The protests continued even after the Supreme Court last month ruled that the quota system must be drastically cut and evolved into a broader rebuke of Hasina, the world's longest-serving female head of government. At least 11,000 people have been arrested in recent weeks. The unrest has also resulted in the closure of schools and universities across the country, and authorities at one point imposed a shoot-on-sight curfew. Authorities shut off mobile internet connections on Sunday to try to quell the unrest, and broadband internet was cut briefly Monday morning. It was the second internet blackout in the country since July, but services were restored later Monday. Over the weekend, protesters called for a "non-cooperation" effort with the government, urging people not to pay taxes or utility bills and not to show up to their jobs on Sunday, a workday in Bangladesh. Offices, banks and factories opened, but commuters in Dhaka and other cities struggled to get to their jobs since much public transport was halted amid fears of violence. With Hasina's departure, jubilant crowds waved flags, with some dancing atop a tank in the street on Monday morning before hundreds broke through the gates of her official residence. The Business Standard newspaper estimated as many as 400,000 protesters were on the streets, but any exact number was impossible to verify. "The time has come for the final protest," said Asif Mahmud, one of the key leaders in the nationwide civil disobedience campaign. Bangladesh's Channel 24 showed crowds running into the compound, waving to the camera as they celebrated, looting furniture and books, with others relaxing on beds. Some of the demonstrators grabbed food from refrigerators. Others smashed a statue of Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country's independence hero. Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Washington-based Wilson Center, warned that Hasina's departure "would leave a major vacuum." "If it's a peaceful transition, with an interim set-up taking over until elections are held, then stability risks would be modest and the consequences would be limited," he said. "But if there is a violent transition or a period of uncertainty, that could risk more destabilization and problems inside and outside." Before the protesters stormed the palace compound, Hasina's son had urged security forces to block any takeover. "It means don't allow any unelected government to come in power for one minute, it is your duty," her son, U.S.-based Sajeeb Wazed Joy, said in a post on Facebook. Hasina had ruled Bangladesh since 2009 and won her fourth consecutive election in January after a vote without genuine opposition. The U.S. and Britain denounced the results as not credible, but her government defended the outcome. Hasina's government was accused by rights groups of misusing state institutions to entrench its hold on power and stamp out dissent, including through the extrajudicial killing of opposition activists. Her political opponents accused her of growing increasingly autocratic and called her a threat to the country's democracy. Many said the unrest was a result of that authoritarian streak. On Saturday, Hasina offered to meet with student leaders, but a coordinator refused and demanded her resignation. Earlier, Hasina had said protesters who engaged in "sabotage" and destruction were no longer students but criminals. Information in this report came from Agence France-Presse and The Associated Press. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Timeline of events leading to the resignation of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina By Sabir Mustafa August 05, 2024 Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and left the country Monday after clashes between student protesters and police left nearly 300 people dead. Army chief General Waker-uz-Zaman announced an interim government and promised to investigate the deaths, urging everyone to remain peaceful. The protests started over a controversial job quota system but escalated due to the government's harsh response. Here is a timeline of events leading up to the prime minister's resignation. July 2: Demonstrations take place in Bangladesh's capital, Dhaka, to demand the cancellation of a quota system in civil service recruitment, which reserves 56% of jobs for people from various categories. Students say this is discriminatory. The demonstrations started after the High Court reinstated the quota system in June, overturning a 2018 government decision to abolish it. While the government appealed the decision to the Supreme Court, students refused to wait for the outcome and demanded a new executive order canceling the quotas. July 10-12: Students stage sit-in demonstrations at various key intersections in the capital and highways outside the city, disrupting traffic on roads, highways and railways. July 14: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina makes comments critical of the students' demands to scrap the quotas for children and grandchildren of war veterans. Students express outrage. July 15: A senior leader of a major political party, the Awami League, tells media that the party's student wing, the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) will give a "fitting reply" to students. July 15: Activists of BCL attack anti-quota students at Dhaka University and at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, including injured students at the medical college. Over 300 are wounded in the clashes. July 16: Clashes spread and at least six are killed in Dhaka, Chottogram and Rangpur in the north. Ordinary students fight back and drive the BCL group out of Dhaka and Rajshahi Universities and ransack their leaders' rooms in university campuses. July 17: Students try to hold "absentee funerals" for those who were killed, but police attack their gatherings at three universities. University authorities' close campuses and order students to vacate their dormitories. July 17: Hasina addresses the nation on television, expresses sorrow over the deaths and announces she will set up a judicial inquiry to hold perpetrators to account. On the matter of quotas, she urges students to wait for the verdict of the Supreme Court and suggests the decision will not disappoint them. Students respond by calling for a "complete shutdown" of transportation across the country for the next day. July 18: The "complete shutdown" program sees massive violence in Dhaka and in 19 other districts. At least 29 people are confirmed dead as police and unidentified people open fire - including with live bullets, shotgun pellets and rubber bullets. Tens of thousands of students are joined by various other groups of people to enforce the shutdown of transportation. Cars, buses, and the state-run television center in Dhaka are set on fire and the city's Metro Rail transport network is shut down indefinitely. July 19: At least 66 people are killed in clashes involving protesters and police. A mob frees nearly 900 inmates from a jail in central Narsingdi district and loots some 80 firearms and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition. The government declares a nighttime curfew and deploys the army to help maintain order. July 20: At least 21 people are killed in the first day of curfew. The government announces two days of "general holiday" while leaders of the quota movement and some leaders of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) are detained. July 21: The Supreme Court delivers its verdict in the quota case, abolishing most of the quotas for civil service jobs and leaving 93% of spaces for general applicants. The curfew continues, and seven more people are killed. July 23: The government formalizes the new quota allocation in line with the Supreme Court verdict. But organizers of student protests say it's too little, too late, and that too many people have been killed. The Daily Star newspaper puts the death toll at 146. The arrest of opposition leaders continues. July 26: The Detective Branch of Bangladesh's police department picks up three organizers of the student movement. The BNP calls for the ouster of the government. July 27: Diplomatic missions of 14 Western countries in Dhaka issue a joint letter, calling for law enforcers to be held accountable for wrongdoings. The Detective Branch picks up two more organizers of the student movement. Police continue raids to arrest students. July 28: Six organizers of the student movement, while in Detective Branch custody, read out a statement ending their agitation. But their colleagues vow to continue with the movement and protests resume the next day. July 31: The government observes a "mourning day" in memory of those who lost their lives in the violence, but students reject the day. Supporters of the student movement turn their social media profiles red to show their rejection. Aug. 1: The government issues a notification banning the Jamaat-e-Islami party and its student wing, Islami Chhatra Shibir, as well as its affiliates. The party is accused of being a terrorist entity. Six organizers of the movement are released from police custody. Aug. 3: Student organizers make a demand at a major rally in Dhaka - the resignation of Hasina and the formation of a "national government" headed by a person who is "acceptable to all." Hasina offers talks but students reject them. Aug. 4: Widespread clashes break out in Dhaka and in at least 21 districts of the country. Media reports say at least 90 people are killed in the violence. The dead include 13 policemen who are beaten to death by a mob in Sirajganj. The government reimposes an indefinite curfew across the country. Students announce a plan to hold a march to Dhaka from all parts of the country with the aim to force the government to resign. The army and police urge people not to break curfew or defy the law. Aug. 5: Tens of thousands of people from different parts of Dhaka and the surrounding areas defy the curfew to converge on the capital's center. The army initially tries to stop the flow but then allows people to enter. Crowds storm Hasina's official residence. By the afternoon, Hasina hands her resignation letter to President Mohammed Shahabuddin and, along with her sister Sheikh Rehana, flies to neighboring India. Army chief General Waker-uz-Zaman invites several political parties for talks, including Jamaat-e-Islami, which the government had banned only days earlier. The general says an interim government will be formed following consultation with the president. The army chief promises justice for the 300 people who died during the 20 days of violent protests and urges the jubilant crowds to calm down and go home. But groups of people attack several offices of the outgoing ruling party, as well as a museum dedicated to Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, a founding father of the country. This story originated in VOA's Bangla service. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Readout of President Biden's Call with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan August 05, 2024 President Biden spoke today with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan. The leaders discussed their efforts to de-escalate regional tensions, including through an immediate ceasefire and hostage release deal. The President thanked His Majesty for his friendship, and affirmed unwavering U.S. support for Jordan as a partner and ally in promoting regional peace and security. The President offered his congratulations to King Abdullah and to Crown Prince Hussein and Princess Rajwa on the birth of a baby girl, Iman, over the weekend. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US air base in Iraq attacked twice; casualties reported IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 6, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- America's Ain al-Asad air base in western Iraq housing military personnel have been targeted twice with rockets overnight, leaving a number of forces injured, at least one in critical condition. A US defense department spokesperson had initially confirmed several casualties in the first suspected rocket attack on the base late on Monday. Reuters reported that two Katyusha rockets were fired at the Ain al-Asad base. It later reported that at least five American soldiers were injured, and the condition of one of the wounded was not good. Some other American media outlet cited the Pentagon spokesperson as saying that a number of American soldiers stationed in the base were injured. "Initial indications are that several US personnel were injured," the spokesperson said, adding that the full extent of the injuries and the exact number of affected personnel remain unclear at this time. However, some media outlets of the Zionist regime have reported the death of 2 American soldiers in the attack. Lebanon's Al-Mayadeen network, quoting sources, reported that three explosions caused by a rocket and drone attack were heard at the Ain al-Assad base. Few hours later, on Tuesday morning, news sources announced yet another attack on Ain al-Asad but gave no details about new possible casualties or damage. According to reports, the base was targeted again at the time a military plane was flying to transport wounded soldiers from there. US president hold security meeting A White House official had confirmed that President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident. No group in Iraq or elsewhere in the region had taken responsibility for the attack so far. Later Biden held meeting with his national security team and said that the response to the attack against American forces and measures to defend them were discussed. We discussed the measures we would take to defend our forces and to respond to any attack against our forces, in a manner and place of our own choosing, Biden said in post on his X platform which he published with a picture of himself in a meeting with the national security team at the White House "Earlier, I and VP were briefed in the situation on developments in the Middle East. We received updates on threats posed by Iran and its proxies, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate regional tensions an preparation to support Israel should it be attacked," Biden's post added. About 10 days ago, security sources reported that four rockets landed at the same base amid growing anti-American sentiment in the region over Washington's policies, including its support for the ongoing Israeli genocide of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Bangladesh Uprising - August 2024 Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stepped down 05 August 2024 following weeks of violent protests. Having served for a combined total of over 20 years (June 1996 to July 2001 and January 2009 to August 2024), Sheikh Hasina was the longest-serving Prime Minister in Bangladesh's history. Deep Halar, "The Print" contributing editor journalist and author, stated, 05 August 2024 : "... these protests were preceded by the boycott India movement ... where Indian products were being boycotted... influencers did not just stop at that. They said that even Bangladeshi actors who are coming to India to act in the Bengali film industry and also in the Hindi film industry should stop doing so." Halar saw there were three phases to the protest. The first phase was the students who who had a complaint and that complaint was also addressed by the courts. In the second phase the Jamaat-e-Islami and also BNP opposition people engaged the student movement. At the third phase was the invisible "white Christian country" which was somehow keeping this whole thing together so that it was "very well orchestrated." "The CIA hand needs to be talked about" because the American diplomats have been there. Before the elections American diplomats had been talking not just to the oppositionbut to jamaat and talking to the jamaat islamist radicals. The radical part of the BMP opposition party is also largely supported by the jamaat. Sheik Hasina is seen as more of a secular party compared to the BMP. The US wants a neighborhood for India which is unstable. He suggested there were many in the Indian establishment who felt that these protests were not really organic is there a third country that is at play here - the Third Country the white white Christian country which Hasina herself spoke about. The role of foreign forces in toppling Hasinas government has become a topic of discussion as well as concern. One of the organisations whose name has popped up repeatedly is the US Agency for International Development (USAID). USAID has been implicated in covert operations aimed at regime change. In case of Bangladesh, similar tactics that resemble CIA operations could have been used to mobilise students and opposition parties in the protests. The US was widely perceived to be batting for the BNP in the lead-up to the vote, though the two governments have since attempted to move on from the tensions created by the elections. In November 2023, OpIndia reported that there were signs of foreign interference in Bangladeshs internal affairs. With just two months away from the elections, the United States government, its agencies and the embedded media were called out for orchestrating a regime change operation in Bangladesh. Squadron Leader (retired) Sadrul Ahmed Khan, a member of the Awami League's finance and planning affairs sub-committee, shared with Sputnik India that it was clear that the US has been trying to make inroads in the South Asian region through its support for anti-government forces, which include the National Unity Government (NUG) and People's Defence Forces (PDF). "As the Kuki-Chin rebels in Myanmar are majority Christian, they appear relatively prone to manipulations by foreign actors. The Kuki-Chin rebels in Myanmar's China state are involved in intense fighting with the Myanmar government forces," Khan underscored. The Awami League official pointed out that since last year, the Biden administration has made no secret of its support to the opposition forces in Myanmar after the US president signed the BURMA Act into law, which calls to provide "non-lethal assistance" for Myanmar's "Ethnic Armed Organizations". Sheikh Hasina, while giving the example of East Timor, in late May 2024 asserted that vested interests will carve out a Christian country, taking parts of Bangladesh and Myanmar with a base in the Bay of Bengal. She said that a white man who met her before the Bangladesh elections in January this year had assured her of facing no problems during the elections if she allowed them to build an airbase on Bangladeshs territory. Considering that the US, supported by other Western countries, was widely accused of attempting to influence the 2024 elections in Bangladesh, it is quite clear that PM Hasina was pointing towards the US. Zalengam is being perceived as an ideologically based territory that would be inhabited by the predominantly Christian Kuki-Chin-Zo clans that have trans-border ethnic relations across India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. The demand for Kukiland goes back to 1960, wherein the Kuki National Assembly had asked the then Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru to create a Kuki state, it was in the 1980s when the insurgent group Kuki National Organisation took up the cause. In Bangladesh, the Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF) is a banned ethno-nationalist militant group based in the Chittagong Hill Tracts with an armed wing called the Kuki-Chin National Army (KNA). Derek J. Grossman noted, howecer "If you say/suggest US or CIA specifically had any role in Bangladeshs political chaos, think again. How would this benefit US interests? India is a critical strategic partner vs China. Now, the Army could strengthen ties to Beijing. Islamic extremism there could breed terrorism." On July 20, 2024, the US State Department allowed for the voluntary departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and family members. Travelers should not travel to Bangladesh due to ongoing civil unrest in Dhaka. Demonstrations and violent clashes have been reported throughout the city of Dhaka, its neighboring areas, and throughout Bangladesh. The Government of Bangladesh has declared a curfew throughout Bangladesh, ordering everyone to stay indoors. The Bangladeshi Army has been deployed throughout the country to reinforce the police. Telecommunications have been interrupted in Dhaka and across the country. Due to the security situation, there may be a delay in provision of routine consular services. Mostly spontaneous protests in Bangladesh were prompted by a court ruling that reintroduced the controversial job quota system. However, they quickly grew to articulate widespread displeasure against the government led by Sheikh Hasina only half a year since the last national election. The wave of unrest over quotas for government jobs, saw the number of casualties still being tallied. The government put the official death toll by 29 July 2024 at 150, but according to the Bangladeshi media, at least 210 people, mostly young, lost their lives. Thousands more were injured. Hasina's ruling Awami League party claimed the transformation of the rallies into broader anti-government protests is an indicator that the protests have been appropriated by the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party and the now-banned Jamaat-e-Islami party. The movement, according to political scientist Tasneem Siddiqui, has an "unprecedented" ability to organize protests across the nation without centralized leadership. She also believes that it is fostering the emergence of a new generation of leadership. "With the same party holding power for 16 consecutive years, it has slowly evolved into a personalist regime. Everyone turns to the prime minister for solutions to any problem," Siddiqui told DW. The movement is challenging this political culture, according to Siddiqui. Also, the rivalry between the Awami League and the BNP has not served the younger generation or improved the political landscape, according to the researcher. She notes that "the youth of the country do not like such politics anymore. If these two parties do not understand it, they will not be the leaders anymore." Siddiqui also thought that a strong third political party might be born out of this movement if the parties do not change themselves. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and other leaders of the Awami League are insisting that the movement was effectively hijacked from the students by the opposition parties, namely Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and BNP. The Awami League's Joint General Secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim claimed that "malevolent" and "anti-liberation war" elements were involved in the violent episodes of the movement referring to the independence war from Pakistan in 1971. "The unfolding of such an event was beyond our wildest imagination," he told DW. He also conceded to the government's shortcomings. "We acknowledge a lack of coordination among us, and we understand that there was a gap in the leadership as well," he said. "We have a significant amount of work ahead of us," Nasim added, while emphasizing that any future policies would be determined by deliberations inside the ruling party. Ali Riaz, a Bangladesh expert and professor at Illinois State University in the US, believed that the impact of the protests on the ruling party was evident. "The government has attempted to foster a facade of democracy through some so-called elections. That era has ended. This government, which lacked moral justification in the past, is now left with no option but to resort to force". Ali Riaz believed that the government "has crossed all limits" through the "politics of repression." "What I understand from the people's reaction, the moral legitimacy of the government has also ended with this movement," he said. "Despite [the government] being somewhat successful in suppressing the movement by force," Riaz said, "the movement will not be over." As the protests escalated across the country, internet and mobile networks were shut down to prevent communication among the demontrators. The government deployed the police, the military and the border guard paramilitaries to quell the unrest. Additionally, some protesters reported being attacked by the members of the Chhatra League, the student wing of the ruling party, Awami League. Some restrictions had since been eased, although social media platforms and educational institutions remain closed. The massive anti-government protests in Bangladesh had their roots in student-led rallies that began in mid-July, during which demonstrators voiced opposition to a high court decision to reinstate quotas for government jobs after they had been abolished in 2018 following massive student protests. Under the quota system, more than half of civil service jobs were reserved for specific groups. For example, 30% of government jobs were set aside for family members of veterans who fought in the 1971 liberation war against Pakistan. In response to the public anger, on July 21 the Supreme Court cut the quotas, advising that 93% of all appointments should be based on merit with immediate effect, with 5% going to descendants of freedom fighters, and 2% to people from ethnic minorities or with disabilities. The government accepted the advice of the court, but this failed to mollify protesters, who continued to stage wider anti-government demonstrations calling for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down, a demand with which she has now seemingly complied. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the country's largest opposition party, expressed "surprise" at the emergence of this movement. Barrister Ruhul Quddus Kazal, a member of the party's central committee, said that the protests had unmasked the profound public scepticism towards the ruling Awami League, which has ruled the country for 16 years. "I think the government will do a lot of calculations now. They have to come out of the mindset that they have a license to do whatever they wanted for next five years," Kazal told DW. The Awami League won the 2008 election conducted under the military-backed caretaker government. It has since won three more elections, in 2014, 2018 and most recently in 2024. However, all three national elections were marred by allegations of vote rigging and boycotts from the opposition. The ruling party had weathered protests before and did not iniutially seem to be humbled by the latest student movement. The state response was harsh in the capital Dhaka alone, over 200,000 individuals have been implicated in at least 200 cases for their alleged participation in violence. Nationwide, thousands have been apprehended, including a reported minimum of 253 students within a 12-day period, as per Bangladeshi media. The protesters called for authorities to be held accountable for those killed during the protests, the number of which is estimated to be in the hundreds. In confirming Hasina's resignation, Bangladesh's army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman added that authorities would "punish" those responsible for protest deaths. "The country has suffered a lot, the economy has been hit, many people have been killed, it is time to stop the violence," he said in a televised speech. Going back to business as usual might not be easy, however. There have been allegations that several coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Students' Movement were tortured and taken to the Detective Branch (DB) office of the Bangladeshi police, where they were coerced into declaring the withdrawal of the movement. The streets of the capital, Dhaka, and other major cities were filled with celebrations. Jubilant crowds waved flags, some dancing on top of a tank in the streets of Dhaka before hundreds broke through the gates of Hasina's official residence. Bangladesh's army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, said in a televised speech that the military would form an interim government. It was not immediately clear if he would lead it or who would join the caretaker administration. Some student protesters said they won't accept any government without their representation. "Representatives of student protesters have to be part of the interim government. Otherwise, we will not accept it," Asif Mahmud, a student leader, told DW. He also underlined that they want to have a say not only on the structure of government but also on policies. Z.I.Khan Panna, a senior lawyer and human rights activist, also expressed discontent with the army chief's statement. "We have not received any concrete plans from the army chief. What he said was a temporary solution," Panna told DW. "The people he spoke to over the formation of the interim government, what is their level of public support? I don't think people will accept that." However, a statement released by the military's public relations department said that the army chief would soon hold direct talks with representatives of protesting students and teachers. The concept of a "caretaker government" is not new to Bangladesh. From 1990 to 2008, during general elections, the elected government ceded power to an interim, technocratic administration, which was tasked with holding elections in a free and fair manner. This system was scrapped in 2011. Some observers are now calling for a similar interim administration to take over until elections are held. Meanwhile, a group of 21 prominent people, including rights activists and lawyers, called for the interim administration to take measures to address the causes of mass public dissatisfaction, which led to Hasina's ouster. In a statement, they said that the accumulated public anger over long-standing electoral fraud, widespread corruption, economic mismanagement and repression has now erupted into a mass movement. "Power should be transferred to a national or interim government through constitutional means or by amending the constitution if necessary, following discussions with the protesting students and political parties." The group also stressed that the military should not run the country and should instead hand over power to a civilian interim government and return to the barracks. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 05 August 2024 - Day 894 Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. "To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal] The UK Ministry of Defence reported that on 31 July 2024, the Russian State Duma approved a bill that would strip citizenship from naturalised citizens if they fail to register for military service. The bill was co-sponsored by Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, indicating approval from the Kremlin. When signed into law, the practical consequences for Russian military recruitment is probably limited, though independent Russian media continue to report that law enforcement harass migrant communities including to generate military recruits and this law provides another form of legal coercion in this regard. This law should also be seen in the context of increasing anti-migrant sentiment being stoked by some members of the Russian government, particularly against those of Central Asian origin/extraction. This sentiment and rhetoric has notably increased since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 probably as part of an attempt to establish additional sources of government legitimacy in the face of high casualties and reductions in living standards. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that since the beginning of the day, there have been 108 combat clashes, Russian forces launched four missile strikes using four missiles, 36 air strikes, 43 KABs, 558 kamikaze drone strikes and almost 3,400 shelling the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements using different types of weapons. In the Kharkiv direction, Russian forces during the day spent four attacks near the Pacific and Vovchans ka. Defense Forces units have successfully repelled three Russian offensive actions, another confrontation is ongoing. According to preliminary information, since the beginning of the day, 90 invaders have been killed and wounded, six artillery systems, an infantry fighting vehicle, 34 BLA, three special equipment units and a car have been destroyed. In addition, six artillery systems, eight vehicle units and three Russian special equipment units were damaged. In the Kupyansky direction, the Defense Forces repelled three Russian attacks in the area of Petropavlivka, Berestovy and Stelmakhivka, another confrontation is ongoing, the situation is controlled. Eight times, Russian forces attacked in the Lyman direction, tried to advance in the direction of settlements of Makiyivka, Terni, Nevskie and in the Serebryansky Forest, at the moment the battle near Terniv is underway. In the Sivers komu direction throughout the day, Ukrainian defenders repelled ten Russian assault actions in the areas of Ivano-Daryivka, Verkhnyokamiansky, Pereyznogo and Viymka. The fight is still going on in one location. 11 combat clashes took place in the Kramatorsky direction. The activity of the occupiers showed in the area of Chasovoye Yar and Ivanivskogo, six Russian attempts to suppress us from positions turned out to be futile, five attacks are ongoing. The situation is under control. With the support of aviation, Russian forces 23 times tried to infiltrate Ukrainian defense in the Toretsky direction. During the day, the Russian occupiers attacked the positions of Ukrainian defenders near the settlements of Northern, Toretsk and New York. 15 assaults repelled, eight attacks still ongoing. In the Pokrovsky direction since the beginning of the day in the areas of Panteleimonivka, Novooleksandrivka, Vozdvizhenka, Ivanivka, Zelannoy, Novoselivka the first and Jasnobrodivka, 24 Russian offensive and assault actions were repelled. Seven more fights are underway. Ukrainian troops are taking measures to maintain defined borders. The Russian losses, known at the moment, amount to more than 150 eliminated and wounded occupants, also Ukrainian soldiers destroyed two artillery systems, two BBM, three BplA, two automobile units and three - special equipment. In addition, two BBM, two cars and three Russian artsistemi were damaged. In the Kurakhiv direction at this time of the day there are five combat clashes. Zagarbniks remain active, trying to advance in the areas of the settlements of Krasnogorivka, Georgiyivka and Konstantinivka. Defense Forces units are currently repelling two attacks from the Russian invaders, three attacks have already been completed without success for the Russian opponent. In the Vremivs komu direction, there were two collisions in the direction of Vodanogo and Rozdolny. All the Russian enemies of the assault are suffocated. In the Orihiv direction, Ukrainian troops repelled one Russian attack in the direction of Robotiny, the opponent was unsuccessful. In the Pridniprovsk direction, units of Ukrainian troops successfully repelled five Russian attacks on Ukrainian positions. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that the Sever Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 57th Motorised Infantry Brigade, 92nd Assault Brigade, 82nd Air Assault Brigade, and 36th Marine Brigade near Volchansk, Tikhoye, and Liptsy (Kharkov region). The Armed Forces of Ukraine have lost up to 125 troops, six pick-up trucks, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, and one Bukovel-AD electronic warfare station. One Czech-made Vampire MLRS launcher and six field ammunition depots were neutralised. The Zapad Group of Forces has taken more advantageous lines and positions. The Group inflicted fire damage on the 44th, 67th, and 116th mechanised brigades of the Ukrainian Armed Forces of Ukraine close Kolesnikovka, Sinkovka (Kharkov region), and Novosadovoye (Donetsk People's Republic). Four counter-attacks launched by assault groups of the 14th, 117th mechanised brigades, 77th Air Mobile Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and 117th territorial defence brigade were repelled. The enemy suffered losses of up to 495 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, seven motor vehicles, one 155-mm Ukrainian-made Krab self-propelled artillery system, and one German-made Panzerhabitze 2000, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, and one 122-mm D-30 gun. Three AFU ammunition depots were destroyed. The Yug Group of Forces improved its tactical position, inflicted fire damage on manpower and military hardware of the 24th, 28th, and 54th mechanised, 72th Motorised Infantry Brigade, 79th Air Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine close to Predtechino, Trudovoye, Chasov Yar, Konstantinovka, Katerinovka, and Verkhnekamenskoye (Donetsk People's Republic). A counter-attack launched by the 5th Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine was successfully repelled. The Ukrainian Armed Forces have lost up to 620 Ukrainian troops, three armoured fighting vehicles, 11 motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, four U.S.-made 105-mm M119 guns, and one UK-made 105-mm L119 gun. Two ammunition depots and one Nota electronic warfare station were destroyed. The Tsentr Group of Forces has improved the situation on the front line and defeated the formations of the 1st Tank Brigade, 32nd, 100th, 117th, 151st mechanised brigades, 142nd Infantry Brigade, 95th Airborne Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, 1st Special Brigade close to Toretsk, Grodovka, Orlovka, and Nikolayevka (Donetsk People's Republic). Eight counter-attacks launched by assault groups of the 31st, 47th, 53rd, and 117th mechanised brigades, 68th Jaeger Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and the Lyut assault brigade of the Ukrainian National Police have been repelled. The enemy losses included up to 325 Ukrainian troops, one tank, three armoured fighting vehicles, two motor vehicles, one 203-mm Pion self-propelled artillery system, and one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer. The Vostok Group of Forces took more favourable positions and inflicted fire damage on manpower and hardware of the 72nd Mechanised Brigade, 58th Motorised Infantry Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and the 129th Territorial Defence Brigade close to Razdolnoye, Vodyanoye, and Vremevka (Donetsk People's Republic). The Armed Forces of Ukraine lost up to 115 Ukrainian troops, one tank, eight motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one 152-mm Msta-B gun, and two Bukovel-AD electronic warfare stations. Three AFU ammunition depots were destroyed. The Dnepr Group of Forces engaged the units of the 128th Mountain Assault Brigade, 141st Infantry Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, 39th Coast Defence Brigade near Malyye Shcherbaki, Nesteryanka (Zaporozhye region), and Tokarevka (Kherson region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 70 Ukrainian troops, eight motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, and one 152-mm D-20 howitzer. Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have engaged two POL depots, clusters of AFU manpower and hardware in 132 areas during the day. Air defence units shot down six U.S.-made ATACMS operational and tactical missiles, four French-made SCALP-EG air-launched cruise missiles, seven U.S.-made HIMARS projectiles, one French-made Hammer air bomb, and 43 UAVs. In total, 633 airplanes and 278 helicopters, 29,184 unmanned aerial vehicles, 561 air defence missile systems, 16,774 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,396 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 12,843 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 24,396 units of special military equipment have been destroyed in the special military operation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Australia raises official terror threat level to 'probable' By Phil Mercer August 05, 2024 Australia has raised its official terror alert level to "probable" amid community tensions over the war in Gaza, with the nation's intelligence services believing that the domestic and global security environments have become more volatile Security authorities in Canberra believe the chances of a violent extremist act are now more likely than when authorities lowered the alert level to "possible" in November 2022. Mike Burgess, the head of ASIO, the Australian Security Intelligence Organization, the domestic spy agency, told reporters Monday in Canberra that "more Australians are being radicalized and being radicalized more quickly." The ASIO boss said that the security agencies in Australia had disrupted eight incidents in the last four months that involved alleged terrorism or were investigated as potential acts of extremism. Burgess added that the conflict in Gaza was not the "cause" for raising the terror level, but it was a "significant driver." Community groups in Australia have reported an increase in Islamophobic and antisemitic abuse since Israel's war in Gaza began last October. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese Monday reassured Australians that 'probable' does not mean inevitable, and it does not mean there is intelligence about an imminent threat. However, Albanese told reporters Monday that his government must remain vigilant. "We have seen a global rise in politically motivated violence and extremism," he said. "Many democracies are working to address this, including our friends in the United States and in the United Kingdom. There are many things driving this global trend towards violence. Governments around the world are concerned about youth radicalization, online radicalization and the rise of new mixed ideologies." Australia has five official levels under its national terrorism threat classification system, ranging from "certain" to "not expected." Monday's change moves the rating to the mid-level of "probable." This means that security officials in Australia believe "there is a greater than 50% chance of an onshore attack or attack planning in the next 12 months." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sun sets on milestone Pitch Black By Squadron Leader Eamon Hamilton 5 August 2024 Exercise Pitch Black 24 was unlike any of its predecessors. Building on the exercise's 43-year history, Australia hosted 140 aircraft and 4400 personnel from 20 nations over July 12 to August 2. It was the largest Pitch Black to date, and as nations arrived in Australia from early July, every day seemingly brought a new milestone. This included the Philippines' first time deploying combat aircraft abroad, to the Italian Navy's aircraft carrier ITS Cavour - the debut of such a ship in this exercise. Regardless of whether it was a nation's first time at Pitch Black or its 40th anniversary - as it was for New Zealand - the exercise brought together like-minded personnel from around the globe. Officer Commanding the exercise Air Commodore Pete Robinson said it delivered the training and engagement goals of all participating nations, but most importantly strengthened relationships and friendships. "The feedback from all international partners and our own people alike was that Exercise Pitch Black 24 was a world-class air combat training activity," Air Commodore Robinson said. "More than 1700 missions were flown in the exercise across an exercise area about the size of Great Britain. "The value of this exercise comes in the experience we've built with international partners, and the relationships and friendships we've created with them on the ground and in the air." First-time participation at Exercise Pitch Black 24 included aircraft and personnel from Philippines, Spain, Italy and Papua New Guinea, and embedded personnel from Fiji and Brunei. Returning to the exercise were aircraft and personnel from Australia, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, United Kingdom and United States, as well as embedded personnel from Canada and New Zealand. Familiar Pitch Black elements included jets launching from RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal for complex air combat missions over Australia's Top End. The growing number of aircraft required the exercise's large force employment phase to grow from two waves per day to three, with waves of more than 50 aircraft launching by morning, afternoon and night. The increased size of Exercise Pitch Black 24 was largely possible thanks to infrastructure growth in the Northern Territory, including the use of the Defence Accommodation Precinct - Darwin (DAP-D), which housed more than 4000 personnel. The journey to reach Exercise Pitch Black 24 was a milestone in itself for some nations, such as the combined French, German and Spanish 'Pacific Skies' deployment that arrived on July 20. The US Air Force deployed the F-22A Raptor to the exercise for the first time, joining RAAF and Italian F-35s to make it the largest Pitch Black for fifth-generation combat aircraft. Six nations cooperated at RAAF Base Amberley to launch air-to-air refuelling missions to the Top End airspace, as well as sharing their expertise in local exchanges. At RAAF Base Darwin, a pair of PAC-750 light transports from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force's Air Transport Wing became a familiar sight as they carried essential personnel and visitors to RAAF Base Tindal. From command-and-control specialists to combat support personnel, aircrew from 26 different aircraft types and countless other roles, there were opportunities for individuals to better understand how to work together on operations. "We strive at Exercise Pitch Black to build cooperation across all participants at all levels of this exercise so that we're prepared to overcome future challenges," Air Commodore Robinson said. "The exercise involves the most advanced combat aircraft in service today, and provides training that's essential to sustaining peace and stability across the region." Not all milestones were so auspicious, with an Italian Air Force pilot safely ejecting from his Typhoon aircraft during a mission on July 24. It was the first major accident on any Pitch Black exercise, and Air Commodore Robinson saved special praise for his staff who activated their safety and emergency responses. "The response from our people to respond to the incident, integrate with our Italian partners and coordinate with the NT emergency services was just sensational," Air Commodore Robinson said. "Our Defence personnel worked rapidly and efficiently to respond to this situation and were able to retrieve the pilot into the helicopter just 90 minutes after we knew something had happened. "We train for these scenarios as part of our safety planning, and I was pleased to see the calm, professional and quick work by our teams to ensure this positive outcome - I couldn't be happier with how they performed." One constant that remained throughout Pitch Black was the support of local communities, from crowds watching aircraft in the circuit at RAAF Base Darwin, through to those following it online. "Once again we're grateful to the support of Australian communities, and in particular communities in the Northern Territory," Air Commodore Robinson said. "We joined 22,000 people for the Mindil Beach flying display on July 18, hosted 30,000 visitors at the RAAF Base Darwin open day on July 20, and spoke with more than 4500 school students during visits supported by international personnel." Exercise Pitch Black is planned to return in 2026. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address August 5, 2024 By C. Todd Lopez, DOD News Austin, Australian Counterpart Meet in Advance of AUSMIN Consultations In advance of tomorrow's 34th Australia-U.S. Ministerial Consultations, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III met today at the Pentagon with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles to discuss the historic military-to-military progress between the two nations. Austin just returned last week from a trip to the Indo-Pacific, his 11th visit to the region as secretary. He told Marles he was proud of what the two nations have accomplished in the last three years. "We share with Australia a vision for a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific," Austin said. "Together, our unbreakable alliance is helping to make that vision a reality. We're delivering on major force posture initiatives, deepening our defense industrial cooperation and expanding efforts with our regional allies and partners." Included in those efforts, Austin said, is the historic trilateral Australia, U.K. and U.S. partnership, called AUKUS. The partnership, announced in September 2021, involves two pillars. The first pillar aims to deliver a conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarine capability to Australia. The second pillar involves enhancing joint capabilities and interoperability. "Today and tomorrow, we'll keep building on the historic results that we've achieved together," Austin said. "[And] we'll chart our path to strengthen our alliance over the coming years." The secretary acknowledged his counterpart as a driving force behind the momentum and progress of the partnership between the U.S. and Australia. Since Austin has been the U.S. secretary of defense, Marles said, the partnership between the two nations has grown significantly. "So much has happened over the last few years," Marles said. "You mentioned AUKUS, which is transforming Australia's military capability. That can't happen but for the partnership that we have. We're seeing America's force posture in Australia grow really significantly, AUKUS is part of that, but it's not the only part of that. The marine rotation in Darwin is growing across all the domains. We're now seeing more activities, which has been really fantastic. We are doing more industrially and the breakthrough legislation that went through the Congress at the end of last year in terms of defense export controls is again a transformational change in terms of our relationship." Marles also thanked Austin for his leadership in other areas around the globe, including in Asia, the Middle East and Europe. As an example, Marles pointed to the important U.S.-led trilateral partnership developing with Japan and South Korea; and also, to the quadrilateral partnership between U.S., Japan, Australia and the Philippines, aimed at advancing a shared vision for a free, open, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific. The world remains a challenging place, with a complex security environment, Marles said. "We're witnessing that literally play out by the day," Marles said. "Our relationship with the United States has always been important, but it's never been more important than now." Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong will be joining the two defense leaders in Annapolis, Maryland. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Meeting with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson August 5, 2024 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong today in advance of the Australia - U.S. Ministerial Consultations. The Secretary and the Foreign Minister discussed a range of global issues and ways to continue deepening the U.S.-Australia Alliance. Secretary Blinken thanked Foreign Minister Wong for Australia's steadfast partnership in addressing the most challenging issues around the world. The Secretary and the Foreign Minister exchanged views on strengthening cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, including with partners in Southeast Asia and the Pacific, to support a more stable, prosperous, and connected region. They also discussed next steps to advance implementation of the Climate, Critical Minerals and Clean Energy Compact and applauded the work completed to-date through the Minerals Security Partnership and the U.S.-Australia Critical Minerals Task Force to deepen bilateral economic ties, bolster critical mineral supply chains, and support the global clean energy transition. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong at the Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Countering Foreign State Information Manipulation and a Joint Communique on the U.S.-Australia Landsat Next 2030 International Partnership Initiative US Department of State Remarks Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Treaty Room Washington, D.C. August 5, 2024 SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good afternoon, everyone. So good to see you all here, and especially good to have my friend and colleague, Foreign Minister Wong, here with us today. We have the very important AUSMIN discussions tomorrow with our two defense secretaries, but for today we have an opportunity to spend some time and go over the extraordinarily broad and deep agenda that joins Australia and the United States together. Before I begin, though, a few words on the situation in the Middle East because it is a critical moment. We are engaged in intense diplomacy pretty much around the clock, with a very simple message: All parties must refrain from escalation. All parties must take steps to ease tensions. Escalation is not in anyone's interests. It will only lead to more conflict, more violence, more insecurity. It's also critical that we break this cycle by reaching a ceasefire in Gaza. That in turn will unlock possibilities for more enduring calm, not only in Gaza itself but in other areas where the conflict could spread. So for the United States, for many other countries - both in the region and beyond - this is our focus. And what it comes down to, really, is all parties finding ways to come to an agreement, not look for reasons to delay or to say no. It is urgent that all parties make the right choices in the hours and days ahead. Now, turning to our partnership with Australia, there's a lot to be said about that, but for today I just want to focus quickly on the two agreements that we're about to sign. One of them is something that takes forward a partnership that we've been engaged in for a long time, and that's the Landsat Next 2030 International Partnership Initiative. Having Australia as a founding partner is both important in and of itself, but I think it also sends a very strong message to many others because what we have with this initiative is an ability to really leap forward in how we map, in how we monitor the planet's environment and its natural resources. And what this partnership does is it will facilitate targeted resource exploration. It will allow us to focus on our supply chain development for critical minerals. Australia is particularly well positioned to play a critical role in this, a central role, in Landsat Next success, providing critical ground station infrastructure, personnel, services, and science, all in support of a critical mission. This is for us both, I think, a great example of how the United States and Australia are building together an innovation alliance, as the prime minster and President set it forward, and tackling climate change and doing it together. Second, we'll be signing Memorandum of Understanding on Combating State Information Manipulation. This is basically a partnership to work together even more effectively on combating misinformation and disinformation. We know that around the world, we are in an environment in which misinformation, disinformation is unfortunately a tool of choice for countries that are in adversarial relationships with both of our countries. Australia is now the 20th country to sign an agreement with us. We have agreements with European partners, African partners, in East Asia, in other places, all of whom have endorsed this framework. And it allows us to work together to identify misinformation and disinformation, and then to take effective steps together to combat it - sharing best practices, sharing other tools that we've developed; building greater resilience in our civil society, our institutions; strengthening information integrity across the entire digital ecosystem. Through this MOU, the United States and Australia intend to expand information sharing and pursue complementary approaches to this threat across the Indo-Pacific. So we're grateful for this new partnership that builds on so many others we have. We'll talk about a lot more tomorrow when we have a chance to gather with the press after AUSMIN, but for today I just wanted to put a brief focus on the two agreements we'll sign. Penny, with that, over to you. FOREIGN MINISTER WONG: Thank you very much, Tony. And it's wonderful to be here in Washington. It's great to see you again, as we've been hanging out a fair bit lately. (Laughter.) And we're really - I'm really enjoying it, but it's particularly gratifying to be back here in Washington for the AUSMIN talks. Can I start by echoing Secretary Blinken's comments about the Middle East? And Australia joins with the United States call for de-escalation. We endorse, again, the ceasefire that President Biden has placed on the table and which has UN Security Council endorsement, and we join with the Secretary in the comments he's made about a cycle of violence - the cycle of violence continuing leads us to simply more violence, more conflict, more insecurity, and more lives lost. So again, thank you for the work you're doing to try and forge a ceasefire, Tony, and we continue to support you in your leadership on - for those efforts. As I said, it's fantastic to be here, and I'll just make some brief comments - I'll make some comments, obviously, tomorrow, but - about our partnership. The U.S.-Australia alliance is - it's more than history or tradition. It is that, but it is a living expression of two countries that are aligned. We're aligned by who we are, what we stand for, and what we want. Two robust democracies whose peoples' voices and values are heard and protected by the rule of law, and both of us home to ancient cultures and generations of immigrants to countries that share an interest in a world that's open, stable, and prosperous, in which all of us can make our own sovereign choices. We recognize again that the choices we have had and that we continue to have demand the U.S. engagement, the U.S. security guarantee, which has enabled the long period of stability and prosperity we have enjoyed in the Indo-Pacific, which remains as vital today as ever. As ever. I said we are united and aligned by who we are, what we stand for, and what we want, and the two agreements today are a demonstration of that. The Landsat - the next Landsat agreement, we've been working together on these technologies for many years. This is the next generation. This is about economic engagement, technology - technological engagement. I'm really pleased to see the longstanding partnership continue. In fact, I think that what we're signing today looks to a launch in 2030 or 2031, so it speaks to the - our trust in one another in this area and how much we will work together for this technological cooperation. In relation to the foreign interference, I'd make this point. We're democracies and we understand that part of what we do together in the world is to protect our political systems, our political traditions, our values. And that requires us to stand together against many risks and threats and challenges, and one of those is foreign interference. So we - the integrity of our democracies matters to us all. So really pleased to work with you on that. Looking forward tomorrow to the work at AUSMIN. Always a pleasure to meet with you and the Secretary of Defense, such good friends of Australia's. But I am particularly looking forward to, as always, such a creative and interesting and open and trusting discussion about how we continue to strengthen and modernize our alliance. Thanks very much for having us. (Applause.) MODERATOR: Secretary Blinken and Foreign Minister Wong will sign an MOU on Countering Foreign State Information Manipulation and a Joint CommuniquA on the Landsat Next satellite program. (The Memorandum of Understanding and Joint CommuniquA were signed.) MODERATOR: The MOU on Countering Foreign State Information Manipulation will set the direction for future U.S.-Australia collaboration on building resiliency within civil society institutions and information ecosystems against disinformation. It is the result of increased cooperation between the U.S. and Australian governments to identify and counter foreign state information manipulation. The Joint CommuniquA on the Landsat Next satellite program recognizes Australia as a partner in the Landsat Next satellite mission, which will provide critical insights into the Earth's land surfaces, surface waters, and coastal regions. The partnership builds on a half-century of cooperation between the United States and Australia in Earth observation missions. SECRETARY BLINKEN: All right. (Applause.) Thanks, everyone. FOREIGN MINISTER WONG: Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Belarus: EU lists further 28 individuals for participation in internal repression European Council / Council of the European Union Council of the EU Press release 5 August 2024 09:00 The Council today decided to impose restrictive measures on an additional 28 individuals for their role in the ongoing internal repression and human rights violations in Belarus. Restrictive measures were imposed on two deputy heads of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (Bel. HUBAZiK / Rus. GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. HUBAZiK is one of the main bodies responsible for political persecution in Belarus, including arbitrary and unlawful arrests and ill-treatment, including torture, of activists and members of civil society. Today's listings also include various members of the judiciary, namely prosecutors and numerous judges who have issued politically motivated sentences, including against citizens who protested the fraudulent presidential elections of 2020, or who simply voiced their opinions against the Lukashenka regime. Furthermore, restrictive measures are also imposed on the heads of various correctional institutions (prisons and a pre-trial detention centre). Lastly, a group of long-time supporters of Lukashenka, who benefitted from the regime are also targeted. These include the director-general of the biggest State news agency, Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BelTA), Iryna Akulovich; the host of the "Senate" television programme on the STV () channel and chairman of the Youth Council at the National Assembly of Belarus, Mikita Rachylouski; and the previous head of Lukashenka's press service and a long-time director general of BelTA, Dzmitry Zhuk. These regime propagandists willingly provided the Belarusian public with false information about repression perpetrated by the State authorities, spread disinformation produced by both Belarusian and Russian authorities and promoted hatred towards democratic opposition and civil society. Altogether, EU restrictive measures against Belarus now apply to 261 individuals and 37 entities. Those designated today are subject to an asset freeze and EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to them. Natural persons are additionally subject to a travel ban, which prevents them from entering or transiting through EU territories. These sanctions are adopted ahead of the fourth anniversary of the fraudulent presidential elections of August 2020. In its conclusions dated 19 February 2024, the Council expressed its deep concern about the deteriorating human rights situation in Belarus, and strongly condemned the continuing persecution and intimidation campaigns against all segments of Belarusian society by the Belarusian regime. It deplored that political prisoners remain incarcerated in appalling conditions, exposed to torture and ill-treatment, without access to essential health services, and that many of these prisoners have been kept for long periods of time without contact with their lawyers and relatives. The EU urges the Belarusian authorities to immediately and unconditionally release all political prisoners, and abolish the death penalty. The Council also strongly condemned the unprecedented level of repression, and restrictions on political participation ahead of the parliamentary and local elections that took place on 25 February 2024. On 26 February 2024, the High Representative issued a statement in the aftermath of parliamentary and local elections, in which he condemned the unprecedented level of repression, human rights violations, restrictions on political participation and on access to independent media. He underlined that the parliamentary and local officials elected in Belarus lacked democratic legitimacy since the conditions for free and fair elections had not been met. The EU stands with the people of Belarus and unwaveringly supports the Belarusian people's quest for a free, democratic, sovereign and independent Belarus as part of a peaceful Europe. The relevant legal acts have been published in the Official Journal of the European Union. Background Since August 2020, the EU has imposed several successive rounds of individual and sectoral sanctions, against those responsible for internal repression and human rights violations in Belarus, and in the context of Belarus' involvement in Russia's war against Ukraine. With these measures, the EU is signalling to the political and economic actors responsible that their actions and support for the regime and to Russia come at a cost. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU imposes new sanctions against individuals due to human rights violations in Belarus Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland 5.8.2024 The European Union responds to the deterioration of the internal situation in Belarus by imposing new sanctions against individuals responsible for serious human rights violations or for undermining democracy or the rule of law. The EU Member States approved the additional sanctions on 26 July 2024. The new sanctions are imposed against members of the judiciary, leaders of the state security services and prisons and representatives of media outlets spreading Russian and Belarusian state propaganda. The individuals listed under the EU sanctions regime are banned from travelling to or through the EU and their assets and economic resources will be frozen. Additionally, it is prohibited to provide them funds or economic resources. The EU has imposed sanctions against Belarus since 2004 in response to both the country's internal situation and its complicity in Russia's aggression against Ukraine. The EU has imposed sanctions against Belarusian individuals, entities and sectors of economy. The current sanctions list holds 261 individuals and 37 entities. Belarus is also subject to an arms embargo and a ban on the overflight of EU airspace and on access to EU airports by Belarusian airlines. The previous extension and harmonisation of sanctions against Belarus were decided by the EU in June 2024. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU imposes further sanctions against Belarus Government Offices of Sweden 05 August 2024 The EU has decided to impose sanctions against individuals responsible for violations against human rights in Belarus and oppression of Belarusian civil society and its democratic forces. "The Government condemns the widespread repression of all parts of Belarusian society. Sweden has advocated for further sanctions in accordance with my policy speech on Belarus in November last year. With these new measures, Sweden and the EU are demonstrating that we stand on the side of the Belarusian people and support Belarusian democratic forces and civil society," says Minister for Foreign Affairs Tobias BillstrAm. The 2020 presidential election was undemocratic and was followed by widespread popular protests. The Belarusian Government responded with violence to the protests and critical opinions of the election fraud and the regime's long-term repressive rule. Since 2020, this repression and oppression has intensified. Abuses against large parts of the population are very serious and the number of political prisoners in the country currently exceeds 1 400 according to the human rights centre Viasna. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU Adds More Than 2 Dozen Belarusians To Sanctions List For Role In Crackdown By RFE/RL August 05, 2024 The European Union has added 28 Belarusians to its sanctions list for their role in the "ongoing internal repression and human rights violations" in the country. The listings "include various members of the judiciary, namely prosecutors and numerous judges who have issued politically motivated sentences, including against citizens who protested the fraudulent presidential elections of 2020, or who simply voiced their opinions" against the regime of authoritarian ruler Alyaksandr Lukashenka, the European Council said in a statement on August 5. Also placed on the list were two deputy chiefs of the Interior Ministry's Main Department for Combating Organized Crime and Corruption (HUBAZiK). HUBAZiK is one of the main bodies responsible for political persecution in Belarus, "including arbitrary and unlawful arrests and ill-treatment, including torture, of activists and members of civil society," the statement added. Rights groups say tens of thousands of Belarusians have been subjected to "political repression" since Lukashenka claimed victory in a presidential vote in 2020 that the West and opposition politicians said was rigged. Lukashenka, who has ruled the country with an iron fist since 1994, has refused to negotiate with the opposition, whose leaders have mostly been arrested or forced to leave the country. The European Council said in its statement that a group of "longtime supporters" of Lukashenka who had "benefitted" from the regime are also targeted in the latest round of sanctions, which now apply to 261 individuals and 37 entities. The director-general of the biggest state news agency, the Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BelTA), Iryna Akulovich, as well as the former director, Dzmitry Zhuk, were placed on the list, as well as the host of the Senate television program on the STV channel and the chairman of the Youth Council at the National Assembly of Belarus, Mikita Rachylouski. "These regime propagandists willingly provided the Belarusian public with false information about repression perpetrated by the state authorities, spread disinformation produced by both Belarusian and Russian authorities, and promoted hatred towards democratic opposition and civil society," the statement said. Those placed on the sanctions list are subject to an asset freeze in the EU, while the bloc's citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to them. Individuals are also subject to a travel ban, which prevents them from entering or transiting through EU members. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/belarus-eu-sanctions- repression/33066069.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Belarus Air Defense Units Will Take Part in Live-Fire Drills on Russian Territory Sputnik News 20240805 MINSK (Sputnik) a Military personnel of a Belarusian air defense unit will take part in a live-fire exercise on the territory of Russia, the Belarusian Defense Ministry said on Monday. Russia and Belarus are closely cooperating in the military domain under various frameworks, including the CSTO and the Union State. "Military personnel of one of the military units of the air defense forces are loading equipment onto railway trains. The personnel of the military unit will take part in a live-fire exercise on the territory of the Russian Federation," the ministry said on Telegram. The main actions will be carried out at the Ashuluk training ground, the ministry said, adding that it plans to carry out combat training missions with anti-aircraft missile forces, radio engineering troops and fighter aircraft. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Makes Speech at Ceremony of Transferring and Receiving New-type Tactical Ballistic Missile System Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, August 5 (KCNA) -- On August 4 Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and President of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, attended the ceremony of transferring and receiving new-type tactical ballistic missile system and made a speech. He said: Comrades, Today we have gathered for this characteristic ceremony to celebrate the transferring of new-type tactical weapons to our army. We are now witnessing a moment of the course of our state's defence capability increasing day by day. Representatives of defence scientists and munitions industry workers, who have worked with devotion in the struggle to produce these tactical weapons of great military significance, which would fill up the major gaps in our state's defence capability and form a main force in our military forces, Officers and soldiers of the frontline missile artillerymen's units, who will soon receive the new weapons, Dear comrades, As you see, we are now facing 250 new-type tactical ballistic missile launchers, which our munitions industry workers have produced by their own efforts and technology. Those weapons, lining up in columns in front of us, will be transferred to our army now and will play an important military role in the border areas of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. This of course means no more than attaining our first-stage goal of building missile forces in the first-line units on the front. Every year we will show the whole world without filtering the procedure of the change of generations of our military hardware with new ones. It is because this has enough special effect on deterring war. The world is witnessing the course of development of our armed forces. We have become able to take the operational initiative with the overwhelming attack forces and striking means superior to the enemy on all fronts, achieve the multifaceted nature of the spaces of firepower tasks and improve the practical effectiveness of the special physical strength, tactical nuke. I am very pleased to make public that an important item in the practical guidelines for building up the military capability, which was decided on at the Eighth Congress of our Party and the enlarged meetings of the Central Military Commission of the Party held during the eighth term of the Party Central Committee, has been brought to fruition. Greeting this moment that declares a great change in our armed forces and their prospective development, I, on behalf of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea and the government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, extend warm thanks to the workers, scientists and officials in the munitions industry, who have proudly carried out their revolutionary tasks of great strategic significance in steadily developing our state's self-reliant national defence capability. Comrades, Thanks to the firepower of this weapon system, presenting a threatening appearance for the first time since the founding of our country and army, we have become able to possess a sure and overwhelming strength with which to contain the enemy's reckless provocative moves against us. The fact that these military hardware of a new generation have been produced in less than one year in the circumstances, in which the hostile forces' challenges and moves of blockade persisted on an unprecedentedly extreme degree, adequately demonstrates the potential and might of our self-reliant defence industry. By waging a heroic production struggle and presenting the products encapsulating their pure conscience and ennobling outlook on life, our munitions industry workers fully demonstrated the faith and revolutionary nature inherent in them. What I am most pleased with today is that I have confirmed once again the ennobling spiritual world of the munitions industry workers, who clearly remember their lineage and origin and are faithful and dignified in remaining true to their honourable original name of successors to the Kunjari spirit. The strength of our defence industry is not merely the might of our defence science. Rather, it is a strength of the absolute loyalty these workers are displaying in unconditionally and perfectly carrying out the Party's decisions and plans from the standpoint that doing so is their ennobling duty. Absolute, unconditional and perfect implementation is our munitions industry workers' invariable raison d'etre, lifeline and unique quality. True to the orders of the Party Central Military Commission, the workers, scientists and officials in the munitions industry have made strenuous efforts to manufacture hundreds of cutting-edge military hardware, thereby fulfilling the strategic plan for developing our state's war deterrent to the highest level possible. By doing so, they have instilled an overwhelming sense of dignity and honour in all the patriotic people of this country, and inspired them with renewed confidence in final victory. I highly appreciate them and offer positive encouragement to them in their efforts for more proud successes. Comrades, As the relationship of the U.S.-led alliance is, in terms of its nature and character, evolving into a nuclear-based military bloc, the military security environment surrounding the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is facing drastic changes, both strategically and structurally. This highlights the fact that our state has no reason to rest content with its current level of war deterrent. To look back on the past five years, we can see that the concept of nuclear has been associated with every military action targeting the DPRK taken by the United States, and now its vassal states have grown reckless enough to share its nukes. This situation demands that we keep accelerating the development of our Republic's armed forces for maintaining their supremacy, and also of the self-reliant defence industry that provides solid support to this end. Genuine peace can be guaranteed only by the build-up of immense strength. Negotiations and confrontation are among our options, but we must be more thoroughly prepared to cope with the latter--this is the review and conclusion we have derived from the 30-odd years of dealing with the United States, and it is the keynote of our consistent policy towards the United States. The fact that the United States and the groups of its top-class stooges are overstepping the mark in their outrageous military manoeuvres provides evidence for the justice of our cause, and this compels us to bolster up our self-defensive military capability more perfectly and rapidly. This will inevitably hasten the failure, shame and destruction on the part of the enemy. The United States we are now confronting is by no means an administration that remains in power for a tenure of some years, but a hostile state that our descendants, too, will have to counter generation after generation. This fact testifies to the inevitability of the steady improvement of our defence capability. We should possess the capability to cope on our own initiative with new, potential dangers to our security, as well as the various imminent threats by the United States. This is a crucial task for providing a long-term guarantee for defending the sovereignty, security, interests and territorial integrity of our state. At present, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea has built up its national system of nuclear forces, with which to promptly counter any type of threatening actions by the nuclear-armed enemy states, and we have made steady efforts to make the nuclear forces fully ready for action. However, witnessing the rapidly-changing global security environment and the reckless expansion of the U.S.-led military bloc system, we have come to a conclusion that the nuclear forces of our state and its nuclear posture should be more thoroughgoing and perfect, and we feel its necessity every day and every minute. Our mightiness is not what it is now, but it lies in our relentless pursuit of mightiness. Stagnation in military supremacy is just the beginning of inferiority in defence capability. We must never forget that if we rest content with the present level of supremacy that has taken so much cost for us to reach, we should pay more later. Clear is our standpoint in coping with the U.S. moves to aggravate the situation. If it continues attempting to jeopardize the security of the region in disregard of our repeated warnings, we will make the United States acutely aware that there will be fatal consequences for its own security. I make it clear once again: Whether engaged in negotiations or confrontation, possessing a great military strength is an obligation and right a sovereign state must never neglect or budge on at any moment. Unless an end is put to the nuclear threat against us, and as long as there exist the imperialist forces that resort to nukes as a means of their tyranny, there will never be a moment's halt or a breathing space on our journey for the consolidation of our nuclear war deterrent. Our strength will continue to evolve, and our military supremacy will deny its limits forever. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea will resolutely face both imminent and potential challenges by attaining a more refined and improved posture of its nuclear forces as soon as possible to contain any nuclear threats and defend itself from them. Given the fact that the United States and its vassal forces have been tightening the screw on the DPRK by resorting to military means, Kim Jong Un said, it has been an indisputable option for the DPRK to make sustained efforts to increase its defence capability. He went on: Building up the nuclear war deterrent and developing it to the highest level possible is the best option for effectively confronting the nuclear blackmail and multi-faceted isolation schemes by the United States and for earmarking a larger investment for economic development and improvement of the people's living standards--this is the principled standpoint we have consistently maintained over the last ten or so years since we proclaimed the new line of promoting the country's economic construction and building up its nuclear forces simultaneously, and its validity and viability have been clearly proved through practice. We should always bear this in mind, and work hard to achieve the goals of the five-year strategy for defence development advanced by the eighth-term Central Committee of the Party, uncompromisingly and faultlessly, thoroughly and completely. The munitions industry must never compromise on its absolute mission that increased production of military hardware provides a sure guarantee for safeguarding the country's sovereignty and enhancing its prestige; it should work hard to achieve greater and prouder successes in attaining the Party's objectives for modernizing the defence industry and in carrying out its task of producing weapons of the Juche type. The army units, to which the new-type weapon system is to be transferred, should master the new system as early as possible, actively organize and conduct training in a real-war atmosphere to operate it so effectively as to maximize its efficiency in battle, and maintain a prompt and proper operational posture. In this way, they can creditably implement their military duties to deter war and take the initiative. What our proud new missile units will receive today is not merely the new weapons. Like all other weapons of ours, these embody our people's firm will to put an end to the threats of aggression against our Republic, as well as their spirit of self-respect to make theirs an invincible country that no force will dare to attack and their desire to develop it into a powerful nation. We will continue to develop and produce more powerful and sophisticated military hardware of our own style and deploy them for action, thus ensuring that the People's Army keeps gaining in strength over time. The Party Central Committee will always accompany and properly lead our munitions industry workers, both faithful and dependable, on this responsible and important journey. Comrades, Let us bear in mind once again that absolute and matchless self-defence capability provides a sure guarantee for independence, justice and peace. Ever-developing, inexhaustible strength is fundamental to our eternal victory, genuine peace, happiness and safety. Let us all strive undauntedly and achieve constant transformations and innovative successes for the independent development of our great state and a peaceful and prosperous new life of our people. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea celebrates delivery of 250 nuclear-capable missile launchers to frontline units Iran Press TV Monday, 05 August 2024 2:53 PM North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has attended a ceremony marking the delivery of 250 nuclear-capable missile launchers to frontline units. Kim said at the ceremony on Sunday that the new launchers would give his frontline units "overwhelming" firepower over South Korea and make the operation of tactical nuclear weapons more practical and efficient. Kim also called for his country to brace for a prolonged confrontation with the United States, stressing a ceaseless advancement of the country's military nuclear program to counter US threats, state media said Monday. In his speech, Kim justified Pyongyang's military development programs as a counter to the "increasingly savage" military cooperation between the United States and its regional allies, which he claimed are now showing the characteristics of a "nuclear-based military bloc." "It would be our choice to either pursue dialogue or confrontation, but our lesson and conclusion from the past 30 years ... is that confrontation is what we should be prepared more thoroughly for," said Kim. "The United States we are facing is not just an administration that comes and goes after a few years, but a hostile nation that our children and grandchildren will be dealing for generations to come and that also illustrates the necessity to continuously improve our self-defense capabilities." North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency said the launchers had been freshly produced by the county's munitions factories and designed to fire "tactical" ballistic missiles, a term that describes systems capable of delivering lower-yield nuclear weapons. North Korean military leaders have vowed to annihilate Pyongyang's enemies in case a war breaks out. In recent months, Pyongyang has revealed a new missile called the Hwasong-11. Analysts say it can travel up to 100 kilometers. If this missile is deployed in North Korea's border areas with the South, it would theoretically be able to cover huge swathes of South Korea's greater capital area, where about half of the country's 51 million population live. Pyongyang's deployment of nuclear weapons along the North's border with South Korea, and the authorization given by Kim to his military to respond with preemptive nuclear strikes if it perceives the leadership as under threat, has raised concerns in Seoul and Washington. Regarding Sunday's weapons ceremony in Pyongyang, Lee Sung Joon, spokesperson of South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, said during a briefing that the South Korean and US militaries were closely analyzing North Korea's weapons development and further monitoring was needed to confirm the operational readiness of the missile systems showcased on Sunday. Analysts said Kim's speech aimed to exert pressure on the United States to accept the idea of North Korea as a nuclear power and to end US-led sanctions imposed on the country. Meantime, the North Korean leader has repeatedly warned Washington's regional allies against expanding military ties with the US which could cause war to "break out at any time". Washington, Seoul, and Tokyo conducted their first-ever joint drills after US President Joe Biden and his Japanese and South Korean counterparts signed a trilateral security pact at Camp David in August. China, Russia, and North Korea all voiced concern about the US attempts to militarize the Asia-Pacific through an expanding web of security agreements. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea to send new missile launchers to southern border: state media South Korea's military said the weapons will likely be used to threaten the South. By Taejun Kang for RFA 2024.08.05 -- North Korea is sending 250 new tactical ballistic missile launchers toward its border with South Korea, its state-run media reported, with its leader Kim Jong Un blaming the United States for creating threats that forced his country to enhance its military capabilities. He attended a ceremony on Sunday to commemorate the transfer of a new-type tactical ballistic missile weapon system, which showcased the launchers, said the Korean Central News Agency, or KCNA. Photos released by KCNA Monday show what appear to be vehicle-based missile launchers, with dozens of large green military trucks lined up in rows before Kim. In a speech on Sunday, Kim said the new missile launchers were built with North Korean technology, adding that the display was the first stage of work for the planned missile force deployment by border units. The North Korean leader blamed the U.S. for creating various types of threats that forced his country to enhance its military capabilities. Kim also mentioned that the U.S. would remain a hostile nation for generations, regardless of which administration was in power in Washington, and North Korea had to prepare for confrontation. "Dialogue or confrontation can be our choice, but what we must be more thoroughly prepared for is confrontation," Kim said, adding it was the "keynote of our policy toward the U.S. that we have consistently maintained." North Korea would make it clear that "if the U.S. ignores our repeated warnings and continues to attempt to undermine the security of the region, it will have dire consequences for its own security," he added. In response, South Korea's Unification Ministry, which handles inter-Korean affairs, refuted Kim's remarks about the need to strengthen his country's military power due to a U.S. threat. "The primary reason for the threat to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula is North Korea's illegal development of nuclear weapons and missiles, which directly threatens both South Korea and the world," Koo Byoung-sam, spokesperson at the ministry, said during a regular briefing. Separately, South Korea's military said the new weapons would likely be used to threaten the South. "We assess they will be utilized for various means, such as attacking or threatening the South," Col. Lee Sung-joon, the Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson, told a regular press briefing, adding that the deployment of the launchers near the border area suggests they are intended for short-range missiles. The advanced missiles put pressure on South Korea and its allies to counter with more advanced missiles and defense systems of their own, Harry J Kazianis, president of the Rogue States Project, told RFA. "North Korea, for the last fifteen years, has spent billions of dollars that could have gone to feed its population to improve its missile platforms. Those efforts are now bearing fruit, with the DPRK deploying missiles close to U.S. and ROK assets that look more and more advanced," he said. "The Korean Peninsula is witnessing one of the biggest missile arms races on the planet today--creating a nuclear tinderbox that the world must indeed worry about." The advancements represent a "growing nuclear threat" to South Korea, Bruce Klingner of the Washington-based Heritage Foundation told RFA. "The U.S. and its allies have repeatedly attempted negotiations to limit the North Korean threat, but all 8 previous agreements failed and Pyongyang rejects all entreaties for dialogue," he said. "Washington and Seoul need to augment deterrence capabilities. Unfortunately, the large-number of North Korean missiles risk overwhelming allied missile defenses." A U.S. State Department spokesperson said that North Korea should stop such "provocative and unproductive" moves and return to dialogue. Kim's daughter Photos released by KCNA show that the Sunday ceremony was attended by party, government and military officials as well as Kim's daughter, Kim Ju Ae. It was the first time that Ju Ae had been seen in North Korean media since May. However, the news agency did not report her attendance in its written report. South Korean lawmakers briefed by their main spy agency said last month that Kim was preparing Ju Ae to succeed him, though the selection was not final. Ju Ae, whose age has not been publicly confirmed, although she is believed to be aged between 10 and 12, has been seen with her father at various events, triggering speculation she has been chosen as the fourth generation of the Kim family to lead the nation. More than half of her public appearances with her father were related to military activity, such as overseeing exercises, according to the National Intelligence Service. Edited by Mike Firn. Update adds responses from U.S.-based experts and the U.S. State Department. Copyright 1998-2016, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Cuba's past may be with North Korea but its future is with the South It had been Pyongyang's closest ally in the Americas, but now Havana is cozying up to Seoul. By Eugene Whong for RFA 2024.08.05 -- When Cuba and democratic South Korea announced they would establish relations in February, it caught socialist North Korea by surprise. Since 1960, it was Pyongyang that touted its relationship with what it was calling the only socialist stronghold in the Americas, referring to Cubans as "socialist brethren" of North Koreans and referring to revolutionary leader Fidel Castro as a "comrade-in-arms" to national founder Kim Il Sung. North Korea did not initially reveal to its people that Seoul and Havana were now on friendly terms, and it even stopped reporting on events in Cuba shortly after the announcement, but news trickled in by word of mouth, shocking many residents who felt as if Pyongyang were being further isolated by the move. The redefined relationship between Pyongyang's close ally and closest rival would be a "political and psychological blow," the South Korean presidential office said. When RFA Korean traveled to Havana to gauge reactions to establishing ties with Seoul they could only find faint traces of the 60-year relationship with North Korea, such as a high school that bears the name of Kim Il Sung, but does not follow any of his teachings. Meanwhile many Cubans spoke with excitement about closer ties with Seoul and were optimistic about opportunities and cultural exchanges that could arise as a result. Copyright 1998-2016, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran top military commander hails 'strategic' ties with Russia IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 5, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Bagheri has said that Iran-Russia ties are strategic and deep, which will never be disrupted with change of governments. The military official made the comment as he hosted Russia's Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu in Tehran on Monday. Bagheri said that the US is aware that unipolar power has come to an end in the world, adding that the Islamic Republic welcomes trilateral cooperation between Iran, Russia and China. Shoigu said on his part that Russia is ready to have cooperation with Iran on regional affairs. 4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Envoy explains details of Iran-Russia monetary agreement IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 5, 2024 Moscow, IRNA -- Iranian Ambassador to Moscow Kazem Jalali has elaborated on the details of a monetary agreement between Iran and Russia. In the framework of the agreement, in the next month or so, Iranians will be able to receive rubles from Russian ATMs with their bank cards connected to the Shetab Banking System, and in the final step, in the first half of 2025, they will also be able to buy from Russian stores, Jalali told IRNA. Over the past two years, regular discussions in the monetary and banking sector were held between the banking officials of Iran and the Russian Federation, and the joint working group of the central banks of the two countries held consecutive meetings in this regard, he added. Tehran and Moscow should solve monetary and banking issues, he said, adding that very important steps were taken to solve these issues in the last two years. The messengers of banks of the two countries are also connected, he noted. According to Jalali, Iran and Russia also established brokerage relations last year, and some of the Iranian and Russian banks have been able to have brokerage relations. The opening of these accounts is important because it enables the banks of the two countries to work with each other, he said. 9376**4354 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Strengthening ties with Russia a 'foreign policy priority' for Iran: Pezeshkian Iran Press TV Monday, 05 August 2024 4:54 PM Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has described Russia as a "strategic partner" of the Islamic Republic, stressing that the expansion of relations with Moscow is a top foreign policy priority of his government. Pezeshkian made the remarks in a Monday meeting with Secretary of Russia's Security Council Sergei Shoigu, who was in Tehran on a day-long visit to hold talks with Iranian authorities. He noted that Russia has been a steadfast ally during Iran's challenging times and underscored the need to expedite the implementation of agreements reached between the two countries. "We believe that the era of unilateralism by certain powers, including the United States, is over," the president said. "The alignment of positions and collaboration between Iran and Russia in promoting a multipolar world will undoubtedly enhance global security and peace." The visit by Shoigu comes amid heightened tensions in the region after Israel assassinated Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, in Tehran on Wednesday, pushing the region to the brink. Tehran has vowed that the brazen act of aggression on its soil will not go unanswered. The Iranian president said on Monday that the assassination of Haniyeh was a blatant violation of international laws and regulations. "The Islamic Republic of Iran is in no way seeking to expand the scope of war and crisis in the region, but certainly this regime will receive a response for its crimes and audacity," he said. Moscow has also strongly condemned the assassination of Haniyeh, who was a key negotiator in ceasefire talks for Gaza. Senior Russian officials have said that those behind the killing were seeking to scuttle any hope of peace in the region and to draw the United States into confrontation with Iran. During the meeting on Monday, Pezeshkian condemned Israel's horrific crimes in Gaza as well as its efforts to spread the war in the entire region. Shoigu, for his part, congratulated Pezeshkian once again on his election as president of Iran and described the Islamic Republic as a key strategic ally of Russia in the region. Expressing satisfaction with Russia and Iran's joint efforts to create a "multipolar world" and ensure regional security, he emphasized that relations between the two allies are growing across all sectors. Before meeting with Pezeshkian, Shoigu sat down with Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Baqeri. Gen. Bagheri described the Iran-Russia relations as "strategic and deep-rooted", and said both sides were determined to work on further expanding bilateral ties. He said the change of governments will not disrupt the improvement of ties between Tehran and Moscow. The top Iranian general noted that the United States is now aware that the era of unilateralism is over. "We will welcome tripartite cooperation among Iran, Russia and China," he said. Shoigu, in response, said Russia is keen to strengthen all-out cooperation with Iran on regional issues. Shoigu's visit to Tehran was on the invitation of his Iranian counterpart, Ali Akbar Ahmadian, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Tasnim news agency reported. The two met earlier in the day to discuss regional developments. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Official: Iran smuggles '5 to 6 million liters' of oil into Pakistan daily By Ayaz Gul August 05, 2024 Pakistan's military revealed Monday that millions of liters of Iranian oil are being smuggled into the country each day, but rejected long-standing allegations that it is also playing a role in the illegal trade. Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the army spokesperson, told a televised news conference that "consistent efforts" are being made to enhance security along the country's more than 900-kilometer border with Iran in order to restrict oil smuggling. "If you look at the numbers, [the fuel smuggling] has come down from 15-16 million liters per day to 5-6 million liters per day, thanks to the combined efforts of the army, Frontier Corps [paramilitary force], law enforcement, and intelligence agencies," Chaudhry stated. He did not provide further details, but Chaudhry is the first Pakistani official to publicly share estimates regarding the ongoing large-scale illegal oil trade between the two countries. A rare comprehensive investigative report on the long-running illicit trade, conducted by two Pakistani official spy agencies and leaked to local media last May, revealed that Iranian traders smuggle more than $1 billion worth of petrol and diesel into Pakistan annually. The probe found that the illegal fuel supply accounted for about 14% of Pakistan's yearly consumption, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars in losses "to the exchequer." The report identified more than 200 oil smugglers as well as government and security officials benefiting from the lucrative illegal oil trade. It said that up to 2,000 vehicles, each with a capacity of 3,200-3,400 liters, are used daily to transport diesel across the border. Additionally, some 1,300 boats, each with a capacity of "1,600 to 2,000" liters, are also used to smuggle Iranian fuel. Petroleum dealers attributed the surge in cross-border smuggling to years of U.S.-led Western sanctions on the Iranian oil sector, which compelled Tehran to seek alternative markets for its exports. Iranian traders reportedly sell fuel in their local currency to buyers in Pakistan's southwestern border province of Baluchistan and collect dollars from the Pakistani market. The illegal fuel is then transported elsewhere in the South Asian nation. Islamabad mainly sources its fuel from the Middle East. The government has dramatically raised fuel prices in recent months as part of efforts to secure a new International Monetary Fund loan of about $7 billion. Due to depleting foreign exchange reserves, analysts believe cash-strapped Pakistan could be allowing Iranian oil to be smuggled into the country to fulfill domestic needs. Chaudhry, while speaking Monday, cautioned that sealing the border with Iran to stop the long-standing oil smuggling without providing alternative livelihood opportunities could have disastrous consequences for poverty-stricken and underdeveloped Pakistani border towns. The intelligence report published in May estimated that up to 2.4 million individuals in insurgency-hit Balochistan relied on the smuggling of Iranian oil for their sustenance, and they would be left without means of survival if the illicit trade were to cease. Pakistani government officials did not immediately respond to VOA inquiries seeking a response to Monday's revelations in time for publication. Afghan border Meanwhile, the military spokesperson criticized neighboring Afghanistan's Taliban rulers for not effectively guarding their side of the nearly 2,600-kilometer border between the two countries. Chaudhry stated that the Pakistani military has established more than 1,450 border posts while the Afghan side has only more than 200. He argued that the Taliban's limited number of posts could result from apathy or lack of resources to staff the border crossings. "Interestingly, it's not just the lesser number of posts or the border guards," the army spokesperson said. "We have also noticed that whenever illegal movement or smuggling attempts occur, or people are assisted in crossing the border, gunfire is typically initiated from the Afghan side, or other tactics are used to facilitate such activities." Pakistan maintains that anti-state militants have moved their sanctuaries to Afghanistan since the Taliban regained control of the country three years ago and intensified cross-border attacks, killing hundreds of Pakistani security forces and civilians. There was no immediate reaction from Taliban authorities to Pakistani allegations, but they have previously rejected them as baseless, saying terrorist groups do not operate on Afghan soil and that nobody is allowed to threaten neighboring countries. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Resistance forces take control of two Chinese-backed joint ventures in Myanmar The junta cannot fully safeguard Chinese-invested projects amid the civil war, an analyst says. By RFA Burmese 2024.08.05 -- An anti-junta militia seized two Chinese-invested joint ventures in two regions of Myanmar amid fighting between junta soldiers and resistance forces, throwing the future of the operations into uncertainty. In July, two separate People's Defense Forces took control of the Alpha Cement factory in Mandalay region and the Tagaung Taung nickel mine in Sagaing region. Junta troops attacked the cement factory, about 30 kilometers (19 miles) north of the junta's Central Command, and tried to burn down buildings inside the compound while fleeing a successful assault by the Mandalay People's Defense Force militia, Myanmar Now reported. The military has conducted daily airstrikes on the cement plant, owned by Myanmar's Myint Investment Group and and China's Anhui Conch Cement Co., since militia forces capturing it, the report said. A People's Defense Force in northwestern Myanmar's Sagaing region took over a major Chinese-backed nickel-production plant from junta forces in July without a fight on the border between Mandalay region's Thabeikkyin township and Sagaing region's Tigyaing township, Myanmar Now said in another report. About 60 junta soldiers and police abandoned 64 weapons and ammunition at the Tagaung Taung mine compound and left, Nay Phone Latt, spokesman of the Prime Minister's Office of the shadow National Unity Government, or NUG, told Radio Free Asia. The NUG is now responsible for the safety of the factory and its employees, he said. The seizure of the cement factory and nickel mine comes as the junta continues to lose ground to People's Defense Forces, or PDFs, loyal to the NUG and allied ethnic armed groups a almost four years into a civil war that shows no sign of abating. The incidents also indicate that the junta cannot fully safeguard Chinese-invested projects in Myanmar and that increased discussions between Beijing and the NUG may be forthcoming, said political analyst Than Soe Naing. "China will need to decide whether to rely on the military council or the PDFs and ethnic armed forces to protect its interests in Myanmar," he said. The NUG has not issued instructions for the two factories to cease operations, and they are able to continue normal operations, despite the fighting, said Nay Phone Latt. The Chinese Embassy in Myanmar said it may investigate the situation of the factories seized by the PDFs, but it did not respond to RFA's request for comment. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told a regular press conference in Beijing on July 25 that conflicts in Myanmar should not interfere with domestic Chinese projects, businesses or the security of Chinese citizens. The NUG will not recognize businesses established under contracts signed with the State Administration Council, the formal name of the ruling junta, but will accept those that operated under contracts signed by previous governments, Nay Phone Latt said. International companies operating in Myanmar must pay taxes to the NUG instead of to the military council, he added. The NUG said its policy is to protect all legal foreign investments in Myanmar, not just those from China. Junta spokesman Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun and spokesmen for Mandalay and Sagaing regions did not respond to requests for comment. Translated by Kalyar Lwin by RFA Burmese. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Matt Reed. Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Top Myanmar army officers seized by insurgents in Shan state, junta says The officers included a major general - the highest ranking junta officer to be captured since the 2021 coup. By RFA Burmese 2024.08.05 -- A Myanmar insurgent group has captured senior army officers after seizing their regional headquarters, a military spokesperson announced on Monday, in a stunning setback for the embattled junta that seized power in a 2021 coup. The officers included Maj. Gen. Soe Tint, the commander of the junta's northeastern regional military headquarters, according to the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, or MNDAA. He's the highest ranking military junta officer to be apprehended by insurgents since the military overthrew an elected government led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. The MNDAA said it captured the headquarters in the Shan state town of Lashio last week. It is the first such headquarters that rebels fighting to end military rule have captured. "We had communication with the senior officers until 6:30 in the evening on Aug. 3, but we've been out of contact until now," junta spokesperson Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun said in Monday's statement. "According to unconfirmed reports, some senior officers have been arrested by terrorist insurgents," he said. The junta spokesperson did not say how many officers had been captured or give any names or ranks but junta-aligned media have reported that Regional Chief of Staff Brigadier General Thant Htin Soe and chief of the Kyaukme-based Operation and Command Headquarters, Brigadier General Myo Min Htwe, were also in MNDAA custody. Radio Free Asia tried to contact MNDAA spokesperson Li Kyar Win to confirm the reports but he didn't immediately respond. The loss of the regional headquarters will likely lead to further junta setbacks in the area, political analyst Than Soe Naing told RFA. "It was the largest military command in Shan State," he said. Junta chief appears on TV On Monday, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing acknowledged the losses of troops and command posts, although he didn't speak directly about the military headquarters in Lashio. "Efforts will be made to restore peace and stability throughout the country, including northern Shan state," he said in a speech shown on state media and other junta broadcast outlets. "Members of Myanmar's Tatmadaw, police forces, people's militias, and patriotic citizens will be honored as the country's leading heroes for their sacrifices in restoring peace and stability." Min Aung Hlaing has led the military junta as chairman of the State Administration Council - the junta's formal name - since the February 2021 coup d'Atat. Myanmar has been in turmoil ever since. Ethnic minority insurgents battling the military for decades have been joined by pro-democracy activists, and they've made significant gains in several parts of the country, particularly since late last year when the MNDAA and allied groups launched offensives. The junta had recently prepared to defend Lashio by gathering more than 3,000 troops - many of whom had retreated from cities and towns recently lost to resistance forces. However, the MNDAA and its allies were able to seize the northeastern command in less than a month. Myanmar has 14 such regional military command headquarters. The MNDAA said on Saturday that more than 470 wounded junta soldiers and their family members had been evacuated from the headquarters' hospital on Thursday. Neither side has announced casualty figures, but at least nine civilians have been killed in the fighting and thousands of Lashio residents have fled from the battered city where electricity, phone and internet communications have been cut off for more than a month. A Lashio resident told RFA on Monday that the MNDAA wasn't allowing people to return to their homes, even though the sounds of gunfire have subsided. "We did not hear the fighting in Lashio this morning. The trapped people are allowed to leave outside, but no one is allowed to go back home permanently," the resident said. "The damage, debris and the dead bodies are being cleared." Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Kiana Duncan and Mike Firn. This story has been updated to add comments from a political analyst, Min Aung Hlaing and a Lashio resident. Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Thailand should end Myanmar junta's control over migrants: NUG Junta opponents say Bangkok embassy exploits workers to reinforce its grip on power. By Kiana Duncan for RFA 2024.08.05 -- Myanmar's shadow government has called on Thailand to exclude Myanmar junta from involvement in administering the affairs of migrant workers in Thailand, saying the regime is unfairly taxing them in order to prolong its grip on power. Thailand is home to about two million documented workers from Myanmar, with jobs in agriculture, fishing, manufacturing and other sectors, and many sending funds home to support families as Myanmar's economy languishes in the aftermath of a 2021 coup. While many Myanmar workers arrive under an exchange system, others slip across the border without paperwork hoping to get a so-called Certificate of Identity, or CI, issued by either a Thai government office or the Myanmar embassy in Bangkok, allowing them to stay and work. The National Unity Government, or NUG, set up by pro-democracy politicians after the 2021 coup, said the authority of the junta embassy in Myanmar to issue the certificates gives it the opportunity to exploit "oppressed Myanmar migrant workers and expatriates in all means." "The National Unity Government would like to urge the [Thai] government, the house of representatives and parliament, concerned bodies and people of Thailand who prioritize the basic human and labor rights not to allow the Myanmar military junta's violations in free and fair Thailand," the NUG said in a statement. The role of the embassy in issuing the certificates, one of the first steps that migrants take towards establishing themselves legally in Thailand, became even more important last month when Thailand closed seven of its eight offices for issuing the certificates, meaning they are only available through a center in Samut Sakhorn city and the embassy in Bangkok. The NUG said the embassy was unfairly asking for extensive paperwork, when the CI system was set up to process undocumented migrants. "It is completely different from the original intention of issuing CI cards for those who cannot provide any documentation," the NUG said, adding that if migrants had the necessary paperwork, the embassy should be issuing them passports. 'Perpetuation of power' In September last year, as Myanmar's economic crisis worsened, the ruling military council demanded that overseas workers remit at least 25% of their salary to families in Myanmar through banks and services approved by the junta at an artificially low exchange rate. Later in the year, the junta announced that any worker applying for documentation, including CIs, at the Bangkok embassy would also be required to pay taxes to the junta in addition to their Thai taxes. The embassy was "exploiting the hard-earned wages of migrant workers with the intention of creating a stream of revenues to use in their brutal terrorism," the NUG said. "Forcibly collecting income tax from the salary of expatriate citizens, pressurizing them to send remittances to families through banks and financial services companies that they designate is only aimed at their interests and perpetuation of power," it said. The Myanmar embassy in Bangkok did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Yamone, a Myanmar national who received her CI in May, told Radio Free Asia that in order to get her documentation, she had to begin paying into the junta's tax system, amounting to a quarter of her income. "We are currently living in Thailand, so we don't want to pay taxes to Myanmar, but we continue to pay them," Yamone said. The NUG urged the Thai government to stop the junta collecting income tax from Myanmar citizens in Thailand, saying there was already an agreement not to double-tax Myanmar workers. It also called on Thailand to issue identity cards to migrant workers allowing them to stay. Kyaw Ni, deputy minister for the NUG's Ministry of Labor, told RFA that although Thailand continued to engage with the junta, the NUG also spoke with the ministry through intermediary organizations to try to make its case. "Although there have been no direct discussions with the Thai labor ministry yet, we have held two online meetings with the Committee on Labor of the Thai parliament," Kyaw Ni said, adding that the NUG had also held talks with the Thai foreign ministry on migrant workers. Edited by Taejun Kang. Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Political instability persists as former Pakistani PM Khan marks prison anniversary By Sarah Zaman August 05, 2024 The tree-lined alley leading to the personal residence of Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan in Lahore is quiet. A severe crackdown on his political party has scared away supporters who used to revel late into the night and sleep at their beloved leader's doorstep. Now, only a small contingent of police idly keep watch outside the iconic address in the eastern metropolis. A placard bearing a Quranic verse blesses the resident who has been gone for a year. Aug. 5 marks one year since Khan was put behind bars in the garrison city of Rawalpindi near the capital Islamabad on graft charges. Over time, the list of the former prime minister's alleged crimes grew to include treason, illicit marriage, fomenting anti-state violence and inciting vandalism of military and state properties. Convictions coming in quick succession sentenced one of the country's most popular politicians to nearly three decades in prison, just as Pakistan headed to general elections in February this year. By July, though, higher courts had overturned lower courts' verdicts. Despite much-needed legal relief, Khan remains behind bars facing new charges of corruption and anti-state violence. He denies any wrongdoing. Analysts say Khan's incarceration and the military-backed crackdown on his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, or PTI, may have quashed street agitation that followed his 2022 ouster. They have failed to bring political stability. Instead, experts say, the widely criticized measures have plunged powerful state institutions into a tug of war. Military v. judiciary Veteran journalist and political analyst Suhail Warraich says the legal relief Khan has received after a very public falling out with the country's powerful military is unusual in Pakistan's political history. "For the first time, the alliance between [military] establishment and judiciary that has been going on since 1954, in which the judiciary would stamp any decision that the military took, is not there," Warraich told VOA. "We know the [military] establishment wants one decision and judiciary is giving a different decision." Sayed Zulfikar Bukhari, a spokesperson for Khan's Tehreek-e-Insaf party, told VOA the legal victories were expected. "We knew that when his [Khan's] cases come up in court, as soon as they go to a higher court, it will be virtually impossible for any judge to consider these previous cases as genuine," said Khan's close aide. Still, Khan has accused of bias the Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Esa and the top judge of the Islamabad High Court, demanding their recusal from his cases. A United Nations-backed panel last month declared Khan's detention arbitrary. Speaking to VOA, Azma Bukhari, spokesperson of the Punjab government, rejected the popular view that the state failed to bring credible charges against Khan. "Khan is a lucky man! It's not as if the government has not been able to provide evidence. It's just that nothing stands up to Imran Khan," said Bukhari, a member of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's party, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz). "There is a sense that only those siding with Khan will be respected and spared bullying," Bukhari said, accusing senior judges of favoring Khan under populist pressure. Analysts whom VOA spoke with agree some senior judges may be following the public's pulse. Unclear ideology Since his ouster, Khan may have succeeded in unleashing pent-up public anger against the military's self-admitted interference in political affairs, but it is unclear whether his aggressive criticism of the top brass is rooted in a desire for civilian supremacy, political observers say. Last week, Khan offered "conditional negotiations" to the military if the leadership appointed a representative. He has refused to speak with politicians. The message came through a post on his account on X, formerly Twitter, operated from overseas. "We will not hold any talks, nor will we negotiate [a deal] with the puppet, mafia regime, imposed on us illegitimately through fraud and rigging," the message stated. Government spokesperson Bukhari and journalist Asma Shirazi criticized Khan for rejecting talks with public representatives. "It is important to get clarity on what is Khan's ideology? What does he want? How does he see democracy, civilian supremacy, freedom of expression? Where does he want to take that?" asked Shirazi. While in office, Khan rejected the charge that he rose to power with the military's support, though he frequently touted his closeness with the powerful institution. He repeatedly accused his political opponents of corruption and treason, without providing evidence. In 2021, global media watchdog Reporters Without Borders listed Khan among "press freedom predators." "The way the constitution ensures judicial independence, media freedom, civil liberties, PTI does not believe in that strongly," Warraich said. "This is a gripe a lot of democratic [-minded] elements have with him." Instability persists Since May 9, 2023, when Khan's supporters stormed government and military properties in protest, PTI has faced a severe military-backed crackdown, forcing several senior party leaders to either defect or go underground. Still, PTI-backed candidates won the largest number of seats in the Feb. 8 general elections this year. PTI has also managed to keep Khan and the party's plight in the spotlight internationally. In June, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution urging an investigation into claims of election irregularities. "There is a diaspora that has influence, and it is using that," Shirazi said. Pakistan rejected statements from U.S. lawmakers as unwelcome and unwarranted interference. "That is not interference. That is awareness," said Khan's aide Bukhari, defending the leader's seemingly contradictory position of seeking support from U.S. lawmakers while accusing the Biden administration of conspiring in his ouster. Washington has denied the allegation. Sharif's government seems to have backed down on its recent threat to ban PTI for alleged anti-state activities, but the party's spokesperson and its electronic and social media team members are under arrest, facing anti-state propaganda and terrorism charges. Social media platform X, where Khan's supporters are active, has remained largely suspended in Pakistan since February, while PTI's attempts at street agitations have been frequently quashed. Despite being imprisoned, Khan holds the key to end the political deadlock that continues to destabilize the country, Shirazi insists, since public sympathy remains with him. The battle between Khan and the military, however, has deep implications for Pakistan, she said. "This is not a fight for rule," Shirazi said. "This is a fight for power." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova's comment on mass riots in the United Kingdom 4 August 2024 18:52 1474-04-08-2024 The Foreign Ministry has taken note of the ongoing mass protests in Great Britain in the wake of the July 29 attack against a dancing studio in the city of Southport, which left three minors dead, while several others suffered severe wounds were hospitalised. These demonstrations have grown into wider riots across the country, and hundreds of protesters have been detained. Moreover, UK's Home Secretary Yvette Cooper gave the police the green light to be as tough and harsh as possible when dealing with the protesters, all while the British government continues to pay lip service to what it calls the democratic principles. Russia is known for opposing and never allowing itself to meddle into the domestic affairs of other countries. This is why our country refrains from lecturing others on ways of overcoming their internal challenges and crises. On the contrary, it is the Western countries, led by the United States, who act this way. They would have been better off paying more attention to their own challenges instead of seeking to undermine stability around the world. We keep hearing groundless accusations against our country from the United Kingdom for allegedly suppressing dissent and censorship, as well as vociferous calls to adhere to democratic governance practices and respect human rights. However, it is now up to the UK authorities and police to stay within the confines of the law. It must be recalled that people have every right to express their disagreement with the government policies. In this context, Russia calls on London to refrain from any unjustified or unproportionate use of violence against protestors and ensure their right to freedom of assembly. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Congress President welcomes liberation of prisoners of conscience in Russia and in Belarus Council of Europe Congress Strasbourg 5 August 2024 The President of the Council of Europe's Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, Marc Cools, has made the following statement: "On behalf of the Congress, I unreservedly welcome the liberation of municipal councillors from Tomsk Ksenia Fadeeva and from the Moscow Krasnoselsky District Ilya Yashin, opposition activist Vladimir Kara-Murza and other political opponents in Russia and in Belarus who had been imprisoned for opposing Russia's war against Ukraine, and who were freed in a recent prisoners' exchange. "I reiterate the call made by the Congress in its Resolution 494 in October 2023 for the immediate and unconditional release of all anti-war political activists and prisoners of conscience in Russia and in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, imprisoned for expressing their opinions. "We continue to stand in solidarity with all those critics of the war who remain unlawfully deprived of liberty or are facing persecution - such as municipal councillors Alexei Gorinov, Oleg Nepein, Anatoly Arseev and many other local and regional elected representatives, human rights defenders, journalists, youth activists and political opponents. Today, we need to continue to keep pressure on the Russian authorities for their immediate release. "The imprisonment of politicians, journalists and ordinary citizens in the Russian Federation and Belarus for peacefully expressing their opposition to the dictatorial regimes in power or for criticising the Russian Federation's war of aggression against Ukraine is unacceptable. Just like the Russian Federation's taking Western nationals hostage as a bargaining chip for the release of criminals." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Top Russian security official arrives in Iran amid heightened regional tension Iran Press TV Monday, 05 August 2024 1:08 PM Russia's Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu arrives in Tehran to hold talks with top Iranian officials amid acute tensions in the region following Israel's assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, head of the political bureau of the Hamas resistance movement last week. During his day-long stay in Tehran on Monday, Shoigu plans to meet Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, Secretary of Supreme National Security Council Ali Akbar Ahmadian and Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Baqeri. Haniyeh was assassinated in Tehran on July 31 while he was in Tehran to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Iran's President Pezeshkian. The talks will focus on promotion of a broad range of bilateral cooperation, including security, trade and economic projects, and various aspects of global and regional security, the Russian Security Council said. Earlier on Monday, Iran said Israel's assassination of Haniyeh was a "blatant violation" of international rules and regulations, reiterating Tehran's inherent right to punish the aggressor. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Detains 2 More Defense Officials On Corruption Charges By RFE/RL's Siberia.Realities August 05, 2024 Russia's Investigative Committee said on August 5 that a court in Moscow sent to pretrial detention Vyacheslav Akhmedov, the director of the Defense Ministry's Patriot Park near the capital, on fraud charges. The committee said that the deputy chief of the Defense Ministry's Department for Innovative Development, Major General Vladimir Shesterov, was also detained in the case, and that a court decision on his pretrial restrictions was pending. The announcement follows the arrests of several top military and Defense Ministry officials on corruption charges after President Vladimir Putin's dismissal of close ally Sergei Shoigu as defense minister in May and his replacement with former First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov. Akhmedov and Shesterov are suspected of embezzling 40 million rubles ($467,430) that had been allocated for the Patriot Park and an exhibition hall just outside Moscow. The news comes after media reports last month said police had searched the park's offices. The park was launched in 2016 and occupies more than 3,500 hectares. It includes military museums, a site for the reconstruction of historic battles, and the military's main Russian Orthodox cathedral, the Cathedral of Christ's Resurrection. Some media reports said the construction and development of the park was supervised by Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov. Ivanov, who holds the rank of major general, was arrested in April on bribe-taking charges. He pleaded not guilty. Shortly after his arrest, two businessmen -- Sergei Borodin and Aleksandr Fomin -- were also arrested in the case. In mid-May, the chief of the Defense Ministry's Main Human Resources Department, Lieutenant General Yury Kuznetsov, was also arrested on bribe-taking charges. On May 21, Major General Ivan Popov, the former commander of Russia's 58th Army who once complained about his forces' lack of support from Moscow, was arrested on fraud charges. Last month, he was transferred to house arrest. On May 22, a Moscow court sent to pretrial detention the deputy chief of the armed forces General Staff, Lieutenant General Vadim Shamarin, on bribery charges. Also in May, investigators arrested Vladimir Verteletsky, a top official of the Defense Ministry's Department for Handling Armament Orders, on a charge of abuse of power. Last month, Russian officials confirmed the sudden death of Ivanov's direct subordinate, Magomed Khandayev, in June. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-akhmedov-defense- corruptuion-shesterov/33066398.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Shoigu Arrives in Iran to Discuss Global, Regional Security Sputnik News 20240805 TEHRAN, (Sputnik) - Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu has arrived in Iran for a planned working visit to discuss global and regional security issues, the Russian Security Council said on Monday. Shoigu will hold talks with his Iranian counterpart, Ali Akbar Ahmadian, and Chief of the General Staff of the Iranian armed forces Mohammad Bagheri. Shoigu will be received by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The agenda includes a wide range of issues of cooperation between Russia and Iran in Tehran, including security and economy. Previously, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin would be meeting with Masoud Pezeshkian at the BRICS summit in Kazan in October. In July, the Iranian President-elect released a message underscoring that Russia is "a valued strategic ally and neighbor to Iran and my administration will remain committed to expanding and enhancing our cooperation." "I will continue to prioritize bilateral and multilateral cooperation with Russia, particularly within frameworks such as BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and Eurasia Economic Union," Pezeshkian stated. Sergei Shoigu's visit comes as Israel has been bracing for a potential attack from Iran and Lebanese Shiite movement Hezbollah in the wake of the assassination of Haniyeh and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr last week. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address How Moscow spins hostage-prisoner swap as domestic victory By Liam Scott August 05, 2024 U.S. newspapers were flooded with celebratory headlines last week on a historic prisoner swap with Russia that freed unjustly detained journalists and rights activists, including two American journalists. But thousands of miles away, Russian state-controlled and pro-Kremlin outlets are covering the deal very differently. Moscow sent a directive to those outlets advising them on how to cover the swap, the independent Russian outlet Meduza reported. The memo's instructions include minimizing the significance of the exchange and presenting the political prisoners Moscow released as "superfluous" criminals. "It reveals a lot of things we already know a that Russian state media works for one person, and whatever's best for that one person is what they're going to report," Darren Linvill, co-director of Clemson University's Media Forensics Hub, told VOA about the memo. The Guardian's media columnist Margaret Sullivan agreed, saying it's expected that Russian state media will present the swap as a domestic victory. "Russian media is very controlled, and the message that will come across is this is a huge win, that Russia didn't give up anything important, that we got back people that have served us well," Sullivan told VOA. "They'll spin it as a major victory, and that won't be too surprising to see," added Sullivan, who serves as executive director at the Craig Newmark Center for Journalism Ethics and Security at Columbia University. The Kremlin directive recommended listing the names of the political prisoners released from Russia, along with their convictions and prison sentences. Those released included American journalists Evan Gershkovich and Alsu Kurmasheva, both of whom were convicted on charges that were widely viewed as politically motivated and baseless. Former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan and U.S. permanent resident Vladimir Kara-Murza, the latter of whom is a prominent Russian political activist and columnist, were also freed from Russian prison. The deal also included five wrongfully detained Germans, and seven Russian political prisoners held by Moscow. Many of them were jailed for criticizing Moscow or Russia's 2022 full-scale invasion in Ukraine. In one English-language article by the Russian state-owned outlet Sputnik International, former Marine and convicted sex offender Scott Ritter, who now regularly appears on Russian state propaganda, falsely claimed that some of those released from Russian prison were CIA assets. Russia's Embassy in Washington did not immediately reply to VOA's email requesting comment for this story. The Kremlin memo instructed state media to depict the eight people returned to Russia in the swap as being people who "worked for the Motherland." In the case of Vadim Krasikov a who was serving a life sentence in Germany for killing a Chechen dissident in a Berlin park a the memo recommended underlining that he "eliminated an enemy field commander." "The Russian Federation will not leave me to rot in jail," the murderer once told a guard. The portrayal of the Russians whom President Vladimir Putin personally welcomed back last week as heroes is "Russian propaganda 101," Linvill said. The reality is those returned were convicted or arrested on clear evidence of crimes ranging from cybercrime to espionage and murder. "Russia right now is in the middle of the 'Second Great Patriotic War,'" Linvill said, referencing the war in Ukraine. "And the 'Second Great Patriotic War' is looking for heroes." Russia refers to World War II as the Great Patriotic War, which the former Soviet government and current government have long used for propaganda purposes. In recent days, Russian state outlets like Tass, RT and Sputnik also appeared to amplify former U.S. President Donald Trump's comments about the swap, Linvill said. Trump congratulated Putin on "another great deal" and described the U.S. negotiations as "an embarrassment." "I got back many hostages, and gave the opposing Country NOTHING - and never any cash. To do so is bad precedent for the future," he wrote on social media. At least four cases under Trump involved the release of people held in U.S. prison in exchange for Americans detained abroad. Linvill said that the Russian state coverage he has seen presents the swap as a victory for Russia. But the disinformation expert added that overall, he has seen less coverage than he expected, which speaks to the Kremlin's directive to minimize the swap's importance. "Putin doesn't want to leave any room for questioning his wisdom," he said. It's hard to tell just how much propaganda value the swap may have in Russia, Linvill said. "There's always a little bit of reading the tea leaves when you're trying to understand Russian propaganda and disinformation, and the fact that they're downplaying it suggests that it doesn't have broad value," he said. Still, Linvill added the swap likely does have value for Russia's political elite, as well as would-be operatives who can take the exchange as a sign that Moscow would seek their return if they're captured abroad. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC Ministry of National Defense 2024/08/05 9 PLA aircraft and 9 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 6 of the aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's eastern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and coastal missile systems in response to the detected activities. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO and Ukraine strengthen cooperation on innovation NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation 05 Aug. 2024 On Monday (5 August 2024) NATO published a summary of the new NATO-Ukraine Innovation Cooperation Roadmap, previously endorsed by NATO and Ukrainian leaders at the Washington Summit. This agreement is a significant step forward in increasing NATO-Ukraine cooperation in the field of innovation in line with its five key objectives: helping meet Ukraine's urgent needs through innovative solutions; strengthening Ukraine's innovation system and making it more resilient; enhancing cooperation between NATO's and Ukraine's innovation networks; sharing best practice on Ukrainian technologies and tactics; bolstering NATO's military innovation and technological change. By bringing together entrepreneurs, technology companies, venture capitalists, students, researchers, and defence innovation agencies, this roadmap aims to tackle Ukraine's pressing problems and turn them into battlefield successes. It establishes NATO as a central platform through which Ukraine can communicate its needs for new technologies, encourage innovation, and invite the public and private sector to match those needs. The roadmap encourages stronger ties between NATO and Ukraine's innovation initiatives, including through prize challenges, hackathons, and other collaborative activities. For example, in June, NATO and Ukraine launched the first-ever Defence Innovators Forum, which brought together more than 450 start-ups, investors, and government officials to address real-world challenges. These and similar efforts in the future will help unlock Ukraine's innovation potential and ensure both NATO and Ukraine can find innovative solutions to real-world operational challenges. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine Says At Least 1 Russian Su-34 Destroyed In Strike On Morozovsk Air Base By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service August 05, 2024 At least one Russian warplane and ammunition storage facilities were destroyed in a Ukrainian strike on a Russian military base in the Rostov region, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry's Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) said on August 5. "Space intelligence data show that a Su-34 fighter-bomber was destroyed as a result of fire damage to the military airfield at Morozovsk on August 3," HUR said in a statement on Telegram, adding that satellite imagery show two more Su-34 aircraft were likely damaged in the explosion of the aircraft ammunition storage facility. "Large areas of burnt ground can be seen in the satellite images," the message says. The Morozovsk air base is located some 265 kilometers east of the front line. Russia did not comment on HUR's claim, which comes after the General Staff of Ukraine's military said on August 3 that it had struck the Morozovsk airfield and oil depots in the Rostov region, without giving details. This is the second time Ukraine has claimed to have struck Morozovsk. On April 5, Ukrainian sources told RFE/RL that at least six Russian military aircraft had been destroyed in a massive Ukrainian drone attack on the Morozovsk airfield, where Su-24, Su-24M, and Su-34 bombers had been reportedly stationed at the time. That claim could not be independently confirmed. The Ukrainian Air Force, meanwhile, reported that its air-defense systems shot down all 24 drones launched by Russia early on August 5 at seven Ukrainian regions -- Kyiv, Vinnytsya, Kirovohrad, Kharkiv, Sumy, Poltava, and Dnipropetrovsk. In the northeastern Kharkiv region, infrastructure was damaged by falling debris, Governor Oleh Synyehubov said on Telegram. On August 4, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy officially confirmed the arrival of the long-awaited F-16 fighter jets he has said are crucial to the defense of his country against invading Russian forces. "Now this is really a reality, a reality in our skies, F-16s in Ukraine," Zelenskiy said during ceremonies marking Air Force of Armed Forces Day in Ukraine, standing on the tarmac in front of the U.S.-made warplanes marked with Ukrainian symbols. Zelenskiy did not specify how many F-16s were currently in Ukraine but said the air force "has already begun to use them for our country." Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-strike- morozovsk-air-base/33066185.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine Loses Up to 620 Soldiers in Clashes With Russia's South Forces Sputnik News 20240805 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian Ministry of Defense reported on the progress of special military operation. Ukraine has lost up to 620 personnel in the area of operations of Russia's Yug (South) group of forces in the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Monday. "The Ukrainian armed forces lost up to 620 servicepeople, three combat armored vehicles, 11 cars [among other losses in battles with the southern group]," the ministry said in a statement. Russian troops of the Zapad (West) group have improved their positions and Ukraine has lost up to 495 soldiers, the ministry said, adding that in battles with Russia's Tsentr (Central) group, Kiev has lost up to 325 servicepeople. In battles with Russia's Sever (North) group of forces, Kiev has lost up to 125, while as a result of operations by Russia's Vostok (East) group of forces, Kiev lost up to 115 soldiers in the past 24 hours, the ministry said. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine reports downing 24 Russian drones By VOA News August 05, 2024 Ukraine's military said Monday it shot down all 24 aerial drones that Russia used in overnight attacks targeting multiple areas in the country. The Ukrainian air force said the intercepts took place over the Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv, Kirovohrad, Kyiv, Poltava, Sumy and Vinnytsia regions. Serhiy Lysak, the governor of Dnipropetrovsk, said on Telegram the Russian attacks injured two people and damaged both homes and farm buildings. Officials in Kharkiv reported damage to civilian infrastructure. In Russia's Belgorod region, across the border from Kharkiv, officials said Monday that a Ukrainian attack injured one person and damaged four apartment buildings in the town of Shebekino. Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov also said on Telegram that Ukrainian drones attacked the village of Ilek-Penkovka, setting two houses on fire and damaging another building. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address F-16 fighter jets deployment 'could escalate Ukraine crisis' Global Times Russia could take action to respond; hopes for peace further dampened: expert By Yang Sheng Published: Aug 06, 2024 12:06 AM Ukraine has received the US-made F-16 fighter jets that had long been on its wish list, which may provide Kiev with more strength to deter the Russian air force, but analysts said the F-16 alone will not reverse the situation in the battlefield. Military analysts also pointed out Russia has the capability of responding to the F-16 deployment, and this military aid is very likely to further escalate the Russia-Ukraine conflict, dampening already dim hopes of peace. Ukrainian pilots also need more time to become more skilled at flying the US-made fighter jets, so the F-16s will be mainly used in defending against air strikes from Russia around Kiev, said experts. The logistics system is not very mature at the moment and Russia will make great efforts to strike it, so it's a question of to what extent the fighter jets can change the landscape in the battlefield, they added. Ukrainian pilots have started flying F-16 fighter jets for operations within the country, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday, confirming the long-awaited arrival of the US-made fighter jets more than 29 months after the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Reuters reported on Monday. Russia has warned that F-16s, just like any other Western weapons provided to Kiev, will not change the outcome of the conflict and will only prolong it. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said earlier that there is no "magic pill" for Kiev and that it will not have this "panacea" for long, RT reported on Sunday. "If I'm not mistaken, rewards [for Russian forces to shoot them down] have already been offered," Peskov said, according to Reuters. Built by Lockheed Martin, the F-16s had been on Ukraine's wish list for a long time because of their destructive power and global availability. They are equipped with a 20mm cannon and can carry bombs, rockets and missiles, according to Reuters. Wei Dongxu, a Beijing-based military expert and media commentator, told the Global Times on Monday that these F-16s will be used mainly in three kinds of missions: first, to protect key locations from Russian air strikes and fight Russian fighters to achieve air dominance in strategically important cities like Kiev; second, to hunt Russian military aircraft within Ukraine's airspace; and third, to provide air support to Ukrainian ground forces. The very fact that Ukraine exploiting F-16 fighter jets, which are capable of carrying nuclear weapons, will be viewed by Russia as a Western threat in the nuclear sphere, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in an interview, TASS reported on July 13. Wei said that Ukrainian pilots have yet to master flying these fighter jets, so they won't use them to conduct difficult missions. Russia also has advanced fighter jets that can compete with F-16s, and is also capable of spotting the airbase where the F-16s are being deployed, so if those F-16s are shot down or damaged, it will be a challenge for Ukraine and the West to maintain effective and efficient supplies of this weapon, said the expert. Hopes of peace fading If the F-16s are used to attack targets within Russia and cause significant losses and casualties, it would very likely lead to a terrible escalation, said a Beijing-based military expert who asked for anonymity. The US decision-makers are once again putting their own political interests ahead of a peaceful solution to the Ukraine crisis, said experts. Ukrainian government has not realized that what the West wants is not Ukraine's victory, but the prolongation of its conflict with Russia, experts said. Amid positive signs of peace, including a visit to China by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's peace missions to Kiev, Moscow, Beijing and Washington, the US' new supply of F-16s has dampened the hopes of peace and increased the risk of further escalation, they said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Nagasaki - 09 August 1945 The next break in the weather over Japan was due to appear just three days after the attack on Hiroshima, to be followed by at least five more days of prohibitive weather. The plutonium bomb, nicknamed "Fat Man," was rushed into readiness to take advantage of this window. No further orders were required for the attack. Truman's order of July 25th had authorized the dropping of additional bombs as soon as they were ready. To eliminate the need to remove and reinstall complex scientific equipment from The Great Artiste, Sweeney and Capt. Frederick C. Bock had exchanged aircraft. Thus Sweeney and his crew flew Bockscar, while The Great Artiste repeated its role as the observation aircraft, but with Bock and his crew aboard. At 3:47 a.m. on August 9, 1945, a B-29 named Bock's Car lifted off from Tinian and headed toward the primary target: Kokura Arsenal, a massive collection of war industries adjacent to the city of Kokura. From this point on, few things went according to plan. The aircraft commander, Major Charles W. Sweeney, ordered the arming of the bomb only ten minutes after take-off so that the aircraft could be pressurized and climb above the lightning and squalls that menaced the flight all the way to Japan. (A journalist, William L. Laurence of the New York Times, on an escorting aircraft saw some "St. Elmo's fire" glowing on the edges of the aircraft and worried that the static electricity might detonate the bomb.) Sweeney then discovered that due to a minor malfunction he would not be able to access his reserve fuel. The aircraft next had to orbit the city of Yokohama for almost an hour in order to rendezvous with its two escort B-29s, one of which never did arrive. The weather had been reported satisfactory earlier in the day over Kokura Arsenal, but by the time the B-29 finally arrived there, the target was obscured by smoke and haze. Two more passes over the target still produced no sightings of the aiming point. As an aircraft crewman, Jacob Beser, later recalled, Japanese fighters and bursts of antiaircraft fire were by this time starting to make things "a little hairy." Kokura no longer appeared to be an option, and there was only enough fuel on board to return to the secondary airfield on Okinawa, making one hurried pass as they went over their secondary target, the city of Nagasaki. As Beser later put it, "there was no sense dragging the bomb home or dropping it in the ocean." As it turned out, cloud cover obscured Nagasaki as well. Sweeney reluctantly approved a much less accurate radar approach on the target. At the last moment the bombardier, Captain Kermit K. Beahan, caught a brief glimpse of the city's stadium through the clouds and dropped the bomb. At 11:02 a.m., at an altitude of 1,650 feet, Fat Man exploded over Nagasaki. The yield of the explosion was later estimated at 21 kilotons, 40 percent greater than that of the Hiroshima bomb. Nagasaki was an industrial center and major port on the western coast of Kyushu. As had happened at Hiroshima, the "all-clear" from an early morning air raid alert had long been given by the time the B-29 had begun its bombing run. A small conventional raid on Nagasaki on August 1st had resulted in a partial evacuation of the city, especially of school children. There were still almost 200,000 people in the city below the bomb when it exploded. The hurriedly-targeted weapon ended up detonating almost exactly between two of the principal targets in the city, the Mitsubishi Steel and Arms Works to the south, and the Mitsubishi-Urakami Torpedo Works (right) to the north. Had the bomb exploded farther south the residential and commercial heart of the city would have suffered much greater damage. In general, though Fat Man exploded with greater force than Little Boy, the damage at Nagasaki was not as great as it had been at Hiroshima. The hills of Nagasaki, its geographic layout, and the bomb's detonation over an industrial area all helped shield portions of the city from the weapon's blast, heat, and radiation effects. The explosion affected a total area of approximately 43 square miles. About 8.5 of those square miles were water, and 33 more square miles were only partially settled. Many roads and rail lines escaped major damage. In some areas electricity was not knocked out, and fire breaks created over the last several months helped to prevent the spread of fires to the south. Although the destruction at Nagasaki has generally received less worldwide attention than that at Hiroshima, it was extensive nonetheless. Almost everything up to half a mile from ground zero was completely destroyed, including even the earthquake-hardened concrete structures that had sometimes survived at comparable distances at Hiroshima. According to a Nagasaki Prefectural report "men and animals died almost instantly" within 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) of the point of detonation. Almost all homes within a mile and a half were destroyed, and dry, combustible materials such as paper instantly burst into flames as far away as 10,000 feet from ground zero. Of the 52,000 homes in Nagasaki, 14,000 were destroyed and 5,400 more seriously damaged. Only 12 percent of the homes escaped unscathed. The official Manhattan Engineer District report on the attack termed the damage to the two Mitsubishi plants "spectacular." Despite the absence of a firestorm, numerous secondary fires erupted throughout the city. Fire-fighting efforts were hampered by water line breaks, and six weeks later the city was still suffering from a shortage of water. A U.S. Navy officer who visited the city in mid-September reported that, even over a month after the attack, "a smell of death and corruption pervades the place." As at Hiroshima, the psychological effects of the attack were undoubtedly considerable. As with the estimates of deaths at Hiroshima, it will never be known for certain how many people died as a result of the atomic attack on Nagasaki. The best estimate is 40,000 people died initially, with 60,000 more injured. By January 1946, the number of deaths probably approached 70,000, with perhaps ultimately twice that number dead total within five years. For those areas of Nagasaki affected by the explosion, the death rate was comparable to that at Hiroshima. The day after the attack on Nagasaki, the emperor of Japan overruled the military leaders of Japan and forced them to offer to surrender (almost) unconditionally. In error, The Great Artiste was named in some official reports as the superfortress that dropped the atomic bomb at Nagasaki. This mistake was discovered when preparations were being made to preserve the aircraft for later museum display. When the discrepancy was found, it was Bockscar that was retired in September 1946 to the desert storage facility at Davis-Monthan field near Tucson, Arizona. SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA, Aug. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Australian-based fashion designer Masal will host its first-ever private show on July 16 in Sydney, showcasing the highly anticipated Summer 2025 bridal collection. Renowned for its voluminous wedding dresses and modern takes on traditional silhouettes, Masal is one of the fastest-growing names in bridal fashion. The exclusive event, held at the brand's design house in the heart of Sydney, will welcome a select audience of fashion editors, industry insiders, and influential tastemakers. The intimate setting provides an ideal backdrop for Masal's new collection, with each piece reflecting the brand's signature attention to detail and use of the finest materials. Attendees can look forward to a collection featuring ethereal, lace-adorned dresses exuding minimal elegance that will set a romantic tone for the evening. Also to be featured are wedding gowns made through intricate beadwork, flowing silk trains, and stunning silhouettes that cater to modern brides seeking a timeless, romantic look. The show's highlight, however, will be the breathtaking gown with hand-embroidered details and a dramatic cathedral-length veil. Seyhan Merve, founder and lead designer of Masal, expressed excitement and pride in showcasing the new collection, saying, "Our goal with this collection was to push the boundaries of bridal fashion while staying true to the classic beauty and quality that Masal is known for." In addition to the 2025 bridal collection, the guests will enjoy a luxurious reception complete with fine dining, live music, and an opportunity to meet the designer and creative team behind Masal. For Merve, this is an opportunity to spotlight the brand's collection, connect with other industry leaders, and discuss future collaborations. "We are thrilled to share these exclusive designs with an audience that appreciates the artistry and passion behind each gown," Merve remarks. Masal offers private consultations for brides-to-be, as Masal's latest designs will be available by appointment only. Please visit Masal's website to learn more about Masal's upcoming private show. About Masal Masal is an Australian-based fashion label that specializes in luxurious bridal wear. Founded during the global pandemic in 2020, Masal boldly launched its first bridal collection, driven by the belief that love cannot be postponed. The Masal design is known for its exceptional Turkish craftsmanship, which results in gowns that combine timeless beauty with contemporary elegance. Since its inception, Masal has achieved significant milestones, including notable debuts at New York and Milan Fashion Weeks. These exposures have built Masal's reputation as a leader in the bridal fashion industry. Media Contact Brand: Masal Contact: Aditya Khadka Email: brand@masal.com Website: https://masal.com SOURCE: Masal HOOFDDORP, The Netherlands, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EZVIZ, a global leader in smart home technology, celebrates its successful endeavor to environmental protection by winning the 2024 Sustainability Award for its EZVIZ Green initiative. This initiative combines EZVIZs mission to develop next-generation eco-friendly consumer technologies with its awareness campaigns led by a tree planting project, the EZVIZ Global Forest Plan. The latter uses the proceeds of the green products to continuously grow locally beneficial tree species around the world. The Sustainability Awards by the Business Intelligence Group is an annual program that honors organizations, products, people and initiatives across industries that have prioritized sustainability as a core element of their business practices. EZVIZ Green is one of the top 20 projects named as the Initiatives of the Year. EZVIZ Green is visionary when representing a future-oriented, smart lifestyle while setting its foot on the ground with solid, tangible actions, said Wade Wang, EZVIZs branding director. Its cornerstone lies in our dream of an easy smart home that evolves with sustainability. With our products and projects, we are not only making the initiative a shared value within EZVIZ but also engaging partners and users to make a bigger impact. Innovation-driven, EZVIZ has integrated solar energy into its renowned home security solutions. The company now offers a wide range of battery-powered outdoor cameras and video doorbells that use compatible solar panels, reducing reliance on traditional power sources with long-lasting performance. Its latest 4K solar camera series even features built-in solar panels to minimize installation waste and additional equipment. Notably, EZVIZ has introduced a smart cleaning robot family, all of which reuse recycled plastics in their back plates. The RE4 Plus robot vacuum was nominated for the European Green Awards due to its effective design to reduce disposable waste. EZVIZ Green is about striking a healthy cycle among products, people and the planet through a holistic approach, said Wang. From 2023 to 2024, EZVIZ has financed the seeding of 1,460 trees in 10 countries, which are expected to absorb approximately 245.20 t of CO during the trees' first ten years of life. Image accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/33d7a215-09a6-49d6-baff-5d9ffa9d91d3 VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bedford Metals Corp. (TSX-V: BFM, FWB: O8D, ISIN: CA0762301012) (the Company or Bedford) is pleased to announce the deployment of its field crew to the Ubiquity Lake Uranium Project in Northern Saskatchewan. Prospecting will be focused on mapping historic showings, as well as high-value target zones identified through historic prospecting and geophysical programs. As part of the survey, the entire claim block will be surveyed with state-of-the-art RS100 scintillometers to establish a baseline and to investigate radioactive target zones. Specifically, the Company will be targeting UL2014, where a 2014 prospecting and grab rock sampling program yielded values of 187 ppm U and 449 ppm Th from pegmatitic quartz-rich zones in a granite gneiss outcrop, and 678 ppm U and 679 ppm Th from a quartz-rich pegmatitic granitic gneiss boulder. In addition, the field crew will prospect Target Zones 1 and 2 (T1 and T2), high-priority anomalies identified through an interpretation of geophysical datasets by Condor Consulting of Lakewood, Colorado. Peter Born, President of Bedford, commented, We are excited to commence our 2024 inaugural prospecting program at Ubiquity Lake. The historic data combined with our recent geophysical interpretations suggest significant potential for uranium mineralization. With the necessary permits now in hand, our field team is eager to validate these targets and advance our understanding of the project's geology. Background: The principal target zones at the Ubiquity Lake Uranium Project are northwest-trending subsurface conductive anomalies identified through a 2014 VTEM survey completed by Noka Resources Inc. and Alpha Exploration Inc. Additionally, the Company will be exploring conductive anomalies identified through a 2007 GEOTEM survey completed by Stikine Gold Corporation. A ground survey conducted in 2014 yielded numerous radioactive samples, with readings up to 2000 cps. In 2014, a helicopter-borne EM and magnetic survey carried out by Aeroquest and Condor Consulting Inc. identified 13 target zones needing follow-up exploration in the field. The target model is structurally controlled conductive graphitic zones within the basement rocks that could potentially host uranium deposits. The predicted depth to the basement is less than 50 m, which was consistently achieved throughout the survey area. The Company will be investigating areas with electromagnetic-magnetic targets and areas with anomalous uranium in surface outcrops. Given the projects proximity to the southern lip of the Athabasca Basin, the Company is pursuing an exploration model similar to Fissions Patterson Lake South Deposit and NexGens Arrow Deposit, which are shear-hosted basement deposits with continuity at depth. Bedford remains committed to conducting all exploration activities with a focus on environmental responsibility. The Company prioritizes minimizing its environmental footprint and ensuring that all operations are sustainable and responsible. Additionally, Bedford values its relationships with local communities and indigenous groups and is committed to working collaboratively with these stakeholders to ensure that its activities bring positive benefits to the region. Dr. Peter Born, P.Geo., is the designated qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and the President of the Company and is responsible for and has approved the technical information contained in this release. About Bedford Metals Corp. Bedford Metals Corp. is a mineral exploration company. We create value for our shareholders by identifying and developing highly prospective mineral exploration opportunities. Our strategy is to advance our projects from discovery to production. The Close Lake Uranium Project lies on the eastern side of the Athabasca Basin, adjoining claims held by Cameco Corporation, the largest uranium producer in the world. The claim is approximately 245 hectares and lies within the primary exploration corridor, which hosts the Keys Lake Mine, the Cigar Lake Mine and the McArthur River Mine. Access to the property is done through a network of roads and trails. The Ubiquity Lake Uranium Project, covering 1382 hectares, lies just south of the bottom lip of the Athabasca Basin, adjacent to ALX Uraniums Carpenter Lake Project to the east. Situated near the Cable Bay Shear Zone, parallel to the Virgin River Shear Zone, which hosts Camecos Centennial uranium deposit, the project holds immense potential. Furthermore, it is located 100 km west of Camecos past-producing Key Lake uranium mine, underscoring the strategic significance of its location. The Sheppard Lake Uranium Project, covers an area of approximately 2250 hectares and adjoins the Ubiquity Lake Project to the southeast. The project area is characterized by rocks of the Mudjatik domain, where uranium mineralization is typically basement-hosted, situated within shears or faults, and formed through hydrothermal redistributions of dissolved metals and subsequent redox reactions. For further information, please contact the Company at info@bedfordmetals.com or 604-622-1199 or visit the Companys website at www.bedfordmetals.com . On behalf of the Board, Bedford Metals Corp. Peter Born President Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may include forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required under the applicable laws. CONTACT: MRKT360 INC https://mrkt360.com Alex Zertuche alexz@mrkt360.com For E.S.T Office Hours, Call 1 416-477-0587 Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/73cb2e1e-e447-4824-8901-83dc7242ca47 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3887113b-80fe-4cc1-b552-54d2eec5a553 THE WOODLANDS, Texas, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ring Energy, Inc. (NYSE American: REI) (Ring or the Company) today announced a management team update, including the addition of a new senior executive. Mr. Phillip Feiner has joined Ring as Vice President, General Counsel. With more than 25 years of energy industry experience, including with both public and private companies, Mr. Feiner is responsible for leading Rings legal and human resources efforts. Mr. Paul D. McKinney, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, commented, We are pleased to have Phillip join the Company given his substantial background and industry experience. This role is key to the execution of our long-term strategy, and I along with the rest of the team look forward to working closely with Phillip as we continue to focus on maximizing the Companys cash flow, improving the balance sheet, and driving increased value for our stockholders. Prior to joining Ring, Mr. Feiner most recently served as General Counsel for Nacero Inc., a renewable fuels company. Prior to Nacero, Phillip served as General Counsel for HSB Solomon Associates, a global consulting and benchmarking firm serving the upstream, midstream, and downstream energy space. From 2011 to 2019, Mr. Feiner worked at Kosmos Energy as Assistant General Counsel where he was promoted to Vice President, Legal and HR and subsequently to Vice President and Deputy General Counsel. Prior to Kosmos Energy, Phillip served as Vice President and General Counsel for Cano Petroleum. Mr. Feiner received a B.A. degree from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and a J.D. degree from Wake Forest University School of Law. About Ring Energy, Inc. Ring Energy, Inc. is an oil and gas exploration, development, and production company with current operations focused on the development of its Permian Basin assets. For additional information, please visit www.ringenergy.com . Safe Harbor Statement This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements involve a wide variety of risks and uncertainties, and include, without limitation, statements with respect to the Companys strategy and prospects. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties which are disclosed in the Companys reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, and its other filings. Ring undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Contact Information Al Petrie Advisors Al Petrie, Senior Partner Phone: 281-975-2146 Email: apetrie@ringenergy.com VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MAX Power Mining Corp. (CSE: MAXX; OTC: MAXXF; FRANKFURT: 89N) (MAX Power or the Company) has nearly tripled the size of its recently announced Rider Natural Hydrogen Project along the expanded Torquay-Rocanville Corridor in southeast Saskatchewan (refer to August 1, 2024 news release). Highlights: Rider is Canadas largest Natural Hydrogen target area and now covers 3,356 sq. km with MAX Powers staking of an additional eight claim blocks comprising 2,112 sq. km ; with staking of an additional eight claim blocks comprising ; Extensive research and data modelling have demonstrated that the favorable Torquay-Rocanville Corridor extends significantly to the east based on newly-identified historical Natural Hydrogen occurrences and favorable geology; The additional staking also includes a large claim block (Tribune) contiguous to the south and west of the Weyburn Block announced August 1, 2024. At Tribune, an 87.1% historical hydrogen showing in an old well is very close to a major lineament approximately 40 km due south of the 96.4% hydrogen showing at Weyburn; historical hydrogen showing in an old well is very close to a major lineament approximately 40 km due south of the hydrogen showing at Weyburn; Each of these additional claim blocks, under application, includes evidence of potential upward migration of hydrogen to surface, possibly through serpentinization or fracture zones. Mr. Rav Mlait, MAX Power CEO, commented: What our leading team of Natural Hydrogen experts are finding in Saskatchewan is truly quite remarkable in terms of historical data and the broader geological context for this potential alternate energy source. This is ticking all the boxes on our proprietary model, putting Saskatchewan in a very favorable position for the discovery of North Americas first deposits or accumulations of naturally occurring hydrogen gas. Highlights of Newly-Acquired Claim Blocks Tribune The Tribune Block is a large east-west orientated area contiguous to the Weyburn Block. There are a series of wells with anomalous hydrogen data. The most significant value is 87.1% hydrogen in the 101/13-29-002-14W2/00 well. The key structure in the Tribune area is the NW-SE striking Missouri Couteau. The wells with hydrogen values are very close to this major lineament. Bromhead The Bromhead Block is situated in between the Tribune and Torquay blocks. This area starts at the U.S. border and continues northward to the village of Bromhead. Clusters of hydrogen showings are present in historic wells, especially an east-west trend just north of the international border. Alameda The Alameda Block is situated just west of the town of Alameda and a short distance northeast of the city of Estevan and next to the Lampman West Block. There are several wells of interest on this property with hydrogen values as high as 20.2%. Torquay The Torquay Block is situated west of Estevan near the village of Torquay where hydrogen values in historical wells are as high as 11.0%. Macoun The Macoun Block is oriented NW-SE and is located northwest of Estevan and past the town of Midale. Macoun is situated along the Elbow-Weyburn Lineament, the same structure thats very close to the 96.4% well on the Weyburn Block. Estevan and Estevan North The Estevan and Estevan North Blocks are situated near the city of Estevan and stretch from the U.S. border north toward the Lampman West Block. There are wells with anomalous hydrogen values. Several NW-SE striking lineaments terminate in the area, notably the Winnipegosis Lineament. Kisbey The Kisbey Block is situated between the Stoughton, Midale and Lampman West Blocks. Several wells have historical hydrogen values as high as 14.8%. Moving Forward Geologists are designing a near-term program to verify and validate the existence of a naturally occurring hydrogen trend or trends at Rider ; ; MAX Power continues to review an extensive array of datasets in Saskatchewan and elsewhere with an aggressive plan to further build on its first mover advantage in the Natural Hydrogen sector in Canada and the United States; Pro-energy and pro-business Saskatchewan is exceptionally positioned to become the first jurisdiction in North America to produce Natural Hydrogen given a combination of highly favorable geology and a clearly defined policy framework for exploration and development of this important new alternate energy source. Figure 1 : Map showing the location of MAX Powers Natural Hydrogen Permit Applications Proposed Model for the Source of Natural Hydrogen and its Concentration in Saskatchewan Southern Saskatchewan is entirely covered by the pervasive and thick Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin (WCSB); The WCSB directly overlies the crystalline Pre-Cambrian basement; This basement is the perceived source for naturally occurring hydrogen, especially where the basement rock has an ultramafic composition; There are a series of deep structures, including faults, allowing movement of gasses from the basement upwards into the WCSB. In addition to structures, a series of domes and arches add to the structural complexity of the WCSB; Natural Hydrogen migrates upward into certain geological formations where it can accumulate. Natural Hydrogen Video Learn more about Natural Hydrogen by clicking on the following link: https://vimeo.com/953002092/d6f8574ba4 MAX Power Natural Hydrogen Deck Learn more about MAX Powers first mover advantage in North Americas Natural Hydrogen sector by clicking on the following link: https://www.maxpowermining.com/Presentations/MAXPower-NaturalHydrogen.pdf MAX Power Corporate Presentation Click on the following link to view MAX Powers Corporate Deck: https://maxpowermining.com/Presentations/MAXPower-Corporate.pdf Qualified Person The technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Thomas Clarke, P.Geo., Pr.Sci.Nat., and Director for MAX Power Mining Corp. Mr. Clarke is the Qualified Person responsible for the scientific and technical information contained herein under National Instrument 43-101 standards. About MAX Power Mining MAX Power is an innovative mineral exploration company focused on North Americas shift to decarbonization. MAX Power is a first mover in the rapidly growing Natural Hydrogen sector, through strategic alliances with Calgary-based Chapman Hydrogen & Petroleum Engineering Ltd., and European-based Larin Engineering HHC. MAX Power also holds a portfolio of properties in the United States and Canada focused on critical minerals. These properties are highlighted by a recent diamond drilling discovery at the Willcox Playa Lithium Project in southeast Arizona. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Rav Mlait- CEO MarketSmart Communications MAX Power Mining Corp. Tel: 877-261-4466 info@maxpowermining.com Tel: 778-655-9266 Forward-Looking Statement Cautions This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, and any legislation specifically relating to natural hydrogen, exploration and acquisition of natural hydrogen properties; ability to locate, discover and/or extract natural hydrogen from the subsurface; commentary as it relates to the opportune timing to carry out natural hydrogen exploration; and any anticipated increasing demand for natural hydrogen; any results and updates thereto as it relates to any future drill program, and the funding of that program; and upcoming press releases by the Company. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. They are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects, "plans, "anticipates, "believes, interpreted, "intends, "estimates, "projects, "aims, suggests, often, target, future, likely, pending, "potential, "goal, "objective, "prospective, possibly, preliminary, and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will, "would, "may, "can, "could" or "should" occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made, and they involve number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the CSE, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include risks associated with possible accidents and other risks associated with exploration operations, the risk that the Company will encounter unanticipated geological factors, risks associated with the interpretation of drill program results, the possibility that the Company may not be able to secure permitting and other governmental clearances necessary to carry out its exploration plans, the risk that the Company will not be able to raise sufficient funds to carry out its business plans, and the risk of political uncertainties and regulatory or legal changes that might interfere with the Company's business and prospects. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's Managements Discussion and Analysis, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR+) at www.sedarplus.ca for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/96f8812c-bb16-4772-8386-7b8a99800790 VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HIGHLIGHTS Exploration ramped up across Novo Resources ( Novo or the Company ) priority Pilbara targets in Q2 2024, with drilling programs running concurrently at Nunyerry North and the Becher Project ( Becher ) in the Egina Gold Camp. or ) priority Pilbara targets in Q2 2024, with drilling programs running concurrently at Nunyerry North and the Becher Project ( ) in the Egina Gold Camp. Drilling at Nunyerry North commenced in May 2024 and was completed in late July 2024 with over 3,200 m reverse circulation ( RC ) drilling to date. The program tests multiple new targets along strike of known mineralisation and down plunge of existing intercepts. Final assays expected mid- August. commenced in May 2024 and was completed in late July 2024 with over 3,200 m reverse circulation ( ) drilling to date. The program tests multiple new targets along strike of known mineralisation and down plunge of existing intercepts. Final assays expected mid- August. Follow-up aircore ( AC ) and RC drilling programs commenced at Novos flagship Becher Project by De Grey Mining ( De Grey ) with two drill rigs. Initial focus for these programs is on testing gold and base metal mineralisation at the priority Heckmair and Lowe Prospects. ) and RC drilling programs commenced at Novos flagship Becher Project by De Grey Mining ( ) with two drill rigs. Initial focus for these programs is on testing gold and base metal mineralisation at the priority Heckmair and Lowe Prospects. De Grey plans to undertake a further 28,000 m of combined AC and RC drilling in 2024, adding to the ~10,500 m already completed in Q4 2023. Recent exploration review in the Karratha district has advanced several drill targets, including North Whundo , Railway Bore and East Well. A program of ~3,500 m of RC drilling is planned to test these prospects in late Q3 2024 post completion of heritage surveys. , and A program of ~3,500 m of RC drilling is planned to test these prospects in late Q3 2024 post completion of heritage surveys. Reconnaissance AC drilling is also planned at Balla Balla in late Q3 2024 post completion of heritage surveys. At the Belltopper Gold Project in Victoria, results were received from the six-hole, 2,529 m, diamond drill program completed in Q1 2024. Significant intercepts included 1 : 5.6 m @ 3.14 g/t Au from 219.8 m and 4.25 m @ 5.88 g/t Au from 274.75 m ( including 2 m @ 11.15 g/t Au ) and 1.94 m @ 2.37 g/t Au from 230 m in BTD001 on the Leven Star Reef. 2 m @ 15.18 g/t Au from 9 m in BTD004 on a newly discovered reef. 12.26 m @ 1.45 g/t Au from 185 m ( including 4.6 m @ 2.64 g/t Au ) in BTD005 on the Missing Link Reef. 7 m @ 1.88 g/t Au from 179 m ( including 3.19 m @ 3.42 g/t Au ) in BTD006 on the Piezzi Reef, a parallel structure to the OConnors Reef. New gold reefs have been delineated, and extension potential demonstrated on several key historic reefs. A new high-priority north-west trending target corridor was also defined. Hole BTD001 extended mineralisation up to 120 m down-dip on the Leven Star Reef in an emerging high-grade zone and anomalous gold in BTD003 indicates a potential north-east extension to the Leven Star Reef in addition to evidence for a prospective parallel structure (the Butchers Gully Fault). Hole BTD002 intersected the Hanover Reef, and discovered an additional, parallel reef (the Welcome Fault) returning 4.1 m @ 2.37 g/t Au from 36.1 m. BTD002 is the only hole drilled into this developing target corridor. 2 Structural logging has confirmed the geometry and position of major anticline corridors which remain priority targets for structurally controlled high-grade gold events such as those seen at the nearby Fosterville gold mine. Novo continues to focus its efforts on dedicated and disciplined project generation program to focus on identifying value accretive opportunities across targeted precious and base metals assets that complement the current portfolio. Novo is in a strong financial position to continue its exploration focus on Western Australia and Victoria, with no debt and a cash balance of A$11.7 million (C$10.7 million) and investments of approximately A$46.2 million (C$42.1 million) as at 30 June 2024.3 Commenting on the June quarter, Novo Executive Co-Chairman and Acting CEO Mike Spreadborough said, It has been a busy quarter as we progressed exploration activity across our Pilbara portfolio and analysed results from our Belltopper drill program from earlier in the year. Results from the Nunyerry North RC drill program will now be assessed prior to finalising targets for diamond drilling and the team will continue to finalise planning for a RC drill program to test three prospects in the Karratha district, with drilling scheduled to start late next quarter. At the Balla Balla Gold Project, a reconnaissance AC program is also planned for the second half of the year, testing prospectivity adjacent to the Sholl Shear and associated potentially fertile structural corridors undercover. Excitingly, results from the Belltopper diamond drill program were received and new gold reefs have been delineated with extension potential demonstrated on several key historic reefs. A program of historical core logging and sampling of several deep diamond holes drilled by previous explorers has now been initiated with results from this work expected to be finalised in the first half of Q3 2024. As always, the team is continuing our aggressive exploration push, with a busy half planned and a strong pipeline of news expected for the remainder of 2024. SUSTAINABILITY There were no significant safety, environment, or community incidents during Q2 2024. Discussions are advanced with Traditional Owners to ensure appropriate heritage protection for planned Nunyerry North, Balla Balla and Karratha District drill programs and for eventual exploration in the Yandeyarra Reserve (part of Novos Egina Gold Camp). WESTERN AUSTRALIAN GOLD PORTFOLIO Egina Gold Camp The Egina Gold Camp is an 80 km long contiguous tenement package, which hosts Novos current high priority Pilbara targets (Figure 1) at Nunyerry North and Becher. The tenure is focussed on a series of structurally complex, gold-fertile corridors and is hosted by rocks of the Mallina Basin in the north and mafic / ultramafic sequences further south. This belt is the primary focus for Novos 2024 Pilbara exploration programs. Figure 1: Novo Pilbara tenure showing main projects and significant prospect. In addition to the Nunyerry North and Egina JV, several other priority gold targets are also being progressed along the main structural corridors within the EGC (Figure 2). These prospects form part of Novos regional reconnaissance program in 2024. Nunyerry North (70% Novo / 30% Creasy Group) The Nunyerry North prospect lies within Exploration Licence E47/2973 in the southern EGC, located 150 km from Port Hedland. The tenement is subject to a Joint Venture agreement, with Novo holding a 70% interest and the remaining 30% held by Rockford Metals Pty Ltd, an entity of Mark Gareth Creasy (The Creasy Group). Novo completed a maiden RC drilling program of 30 holes for 2,424 m at Nunyerry North in Q4 2023. Figure 2: EGC tenure showing significant Au prospects, location of Nunyerry North, and JV interests. Phase 2 RC drilling commenced at Nunyerry North in late May 2024 following receipt of significant results from the maiden drill program. The current program was completed with a total of 28 RC holes for 3,168 m drilled in June 2024. The program was designed to test multiple new targets along strike of known mineralisation and down plunge of existing intercepts (Figure 3). Final assays are expected in mid-August. Figure 3: Nunyerry project area with interpreted geology, highlighting strike extent of favourable stratigraphy and additional structural targets for further drill testing. Egina Earn-in/JV (De Grey earning a 50% interest) In the northern Egina Gold Camp at the Egina JV area, Novos partner De Grey commenced drill programs in late May 2024, with two rigs concurrently conducting a proposed approximate 28,000 m combined AC and RC drill program. The RC drill program is focussed initially at Heckmair and has been designed to follow up on encouraging results at Lowe, Heckmair, and Whillans. The AC drill program has commenced at Lowe and aims to provide better geochemical coverage over structural and intrusion targets (Figure 4). At 30 June 2024, a total of 38 RC holes for 4,975 m and 201 AC holes for 16,955 m had been completed. Results are expected in late Q3 2024. Figure 4: Proposed drill programs by JV partner De Grey at the Becher Project in the Egina JV Karratha District Prospects Novos maiden RC drilling program at the North Whundo, Railway Bore and East Well prospects is scheduled for late Q3 2024. A total of ~3,500 m is planned to test Au and Au-Cu (+/- Pt-Pd) targets defined by a combination of mapping, surface geochemistry and reprocessing/reinterpretation of historic geophysics (IP chargeability and anomalies). Recent exploration in the Karratha district has advanced several drill targets, including North Whundo, Railway Bore and East Well. By way of further detail:4 The primary target North Whundo 5 is defined by a significant 1.2 km long Cu-Pd-Au anomaly , with highly anomalous rock chip results including peak values of 4.1 g/t Au+Pt+Pd and 3.9 % Cu. is defined by a , with highly anomalous rock chip results including peak values of At Railway Bore 5 , rock chip results include 9.6 g/t Au, 11.9% Cu and 26 g/t Ag from malachite rich breccia in a swarm of felsic intrusion-hosted quartz veins. , rock chip results include from malachite rich breccia in a swarm of felsic intrusion-hosted quartz veins. At East Well, a 450 m long copper pXRF soil anomaly > 200 ppm Cu delineates the intersection of a high-grade quartz vein trend and a Au-PGE-Cu breccia trend. Figure 5: Karratha District showing Novo tenure and significant prospects Balla Balla Gold Project Balla Balla is an emerging exploration project centred on the Sholl Shear and associated potentially fertile structural corridors undercover. The Project is considered prospective for intrusion-hosted gold mineralisation, in addition to structurally controlled gold. Geophysical interpretation and research of historical data completed in 2023 advanced the Companys understanding of prospectivity in the project area and further delineated targets for follow-up work in 2024. A reconnaissance AC drill program is currently in planning for H2 2024. Forward Programs Pilbara Results from the Nunyerry North RC drill program will be assessed prior to finalising targets for diamond drilling. At Becher, in the Egina JV, De Grey AC and RC drilling programs are expected to continue in Q3 2024. Geophysical surveys proposed for Q2 2024, including a high-resolution drone aeromagnetic survey at Becher, and ground gravity over several additional selected areas, have been delayed and are now scheduled for Q3 2024. Novo also plans to conduct a RC drill program to test three prospects in the Karratha district, with programs to be completed at Railway Bore, East Well, and North Whundo. Drilling is scheduled to start in late Q3 2024 and will total ~3,500 m to test Au and Au-Cu(+/- Pt-Pd) targets defined by a combination of mapping, surface geochemistry and historic geophysics (IP chargeability anomalies). At the Balla Balla Gold Project, a reconnaissance AC drill program is also planned for H2 2024, testing prospectivity adjacent to the Sholl Shear and associated potentially fertile structural corridors undercover. The Project is considered prospective for intrusion-hosted gold mineralisation, in addition to structurally controlled gold. Geophysical interpretation and research of historical data completed in 2023 advanced the Companys understanding of prospectivity in the project area and further delineated priority targets. BELLTOPPER GOLD PROJECT, VICTORIA In Victoria, final gold and multi-element assay results have been received from the diamond drilling at the Belltopper Gold Project (Figure 6) completed late Q1 2024. Summary metrics for the program are 6 holes for 2,529 m. The program was designed to test multiple high-priority targets, including structural and intrusion hosted/related gold targets, high-amplitude IP chargeability anomalies and favourable structural positions within key anticline corridors, and a developing high-grade zone at the Leven Star Reef. A program of historical core logging and sampling of several deep diamond holes drilled by previous explorers has also been initiated. Results from this work are expected to be finalised in the first half of Q3 2024. Figure 6: Belltopper Gold Project location map with focus area for the diamond drilling program. A series of significant results were returned from the drill program contributing to the understanding of the tenor and position of key historic reefs. A new high-priority north-west trending target corridor was also defined. Key results from the drill program included6: 5.6 m @ 3.14 g/t Au from 219.8 m and 4.25 m @ 5.88 g/t Au from 274.75 m (including 2 m @ 11.15 g/t Au) and 1.94 m @ 2.37 g/t Au from 230 m in BTD001 on the Leven Star Reef. from 219.8 m and from 274.75 m (including Au) and from 230 m in BTD001 on the Leven Star Reef. 2 m @ 15.18 g/t Au from 9 m in BTD004 on a newly discovered reef. from 9 m in BTD004 on a newly discovered reef. 12.26 m @ 1.45 g/t Au from 185 m (including 4.6 m @ 2.64 g/t Au ) in BTD005 on the Missing Link Reef. from 185 m (including ) in BTD005 on the Missing Link Reef. 7 m @ 1.88 g/t Au from 179 m (including 3.19 m @ 3.42 g/t Au) in BTD006 on the Piezzi Reef, a parallel structure to the OConnors Reef. The mineralisation presented in the body of this release is not necessarily representative of mineralisation throughout the Belltopper Gold Project. Intercepts are expressed as down-hole intersections and should not be presumed to represent true widths, which vary from hole to hole and between reefs. Significant gold results span a range of mineralisation styles; including oblique to stratigraphy high-grade shear or fault related mineralisation analogous to that at Costerfield or Stawell mines; layer-parallel laminated gold-bearing quartz, quartz breccia, and west-dipping mineralised faults analogous to high-grade Victorian deposits such as at Fosterville mine; and broad, low-grade mineralisation associated with the anticline saddle reef-style that has contributed so significantly to the historical gold endowment of the nearby Bendigo and Castlemaine goldfields. The recent drilling continues momentum garnered from current exploration efforts and the 2021 - 2022 diamond drilling program which discovered and delineated a gold-bearing felsic porphyry with clear IRG characteristics (confirming a new but hypothesised mineralisation style in the region); in addition to highlighting several underexplored, kilometre-scale, high-grade gold reefs with emerging shoot potential, that have in many cases only been tested by a handful of scout or reconnaissance holes at best. Key learnings from the program include: Hole BTD001 extended mineralisation up to 120 m down-dip on the Leven Star Reef in an emerging high-grade zone, and in addition anomalous gold in BTD003 indicates a potential north-east extension to the Leven Star Reef in addition to evidence for a prospective parallel structure (the Butchers Gully Fault). Hole BTD002 5 intersected the Hanover Reef, and discovered an additional, parallel reef (the Welcome Fault) returning 4.1 m @ 2.37 g/t Au from 36.1 m. BTD002 is the only hole drilled into this developing target corridor. 7 intersected the Hanover Reef, and discovered an additional, parallel reef (the Welcome Fault) returning 4.1 m @ 2.37 g/t Au from 36.1 m. BTD002 is the only hole drilled into this developing target corridor. Structural logging has confirmed the geometry and position of major anticline corridors which remain priority targets for structurally controlled high-grade gold events such as those seen at the nearby Fosterville gold mine. Figure 7: Oblique view of IP lines showing chargeability anomalies and key reefs tested as part of current program. Figure 8: Collar location map (LIDAR) and drill azimuth for the six recently completed diamond drill hole at Belltopper. Key structural elements and target mineralised reefs (red lines) also delineated. Forward Programs - Victoria Work during Q3 2024 will focus on reviewing assay and logging data of key historic drill holes from the developing target corridors at Belltopper, and then focus on updating the 3D Geological Model and integrating newly derived data from relogging. An expanded spectral logging program on pulps from key historic and recent drill hole samples has also commenced. In conjunction with detailed multi-element data for the corresponding pulps, this will provide another critical layer to be integrated into the targeting model to help vector into the most prospective areas for high-grade mineralisation. BATTERY METALS JOINT VENTURES Harding Battery Metals Joint Venture (HBMJV) In December 2023, Novo entered into a tenement sale agreement, joint venture agreement, and coordination agreement with SQM Australia Pty Ltd (SQM), a wholly owned subsidiary of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A., in relation to five of Novos prospective lithium and nickel exploration tenements (Priority Tenements) in the West Pilbara. SQM has paid Novo A$10 million (C$8.84 million) for a 75% interest in the Priority Tenements and for an option over additional Pilbara exploration tenements, with Novo retaining a 25% interest, along with 100% ownership of the gold, silver, PGE, copper, lead and zinc mineral rights. Figure 9: Location of Priority Tenement adjacent to Azure Minerals (ASX: AZS) Andover Lithium Nickel Project. Quartz Hill Joint Venture The Quartz Hill Joint Venture is an 80% / 20% unincorporated joint venture between Liatam Mining Pty. Ltd. (Liatam) and Novo relating to battery minerals. This joint venture was formalised on 20 December 2023, when Liatam exceeded the required earn-in expenditure amount. Liatam is the owner of the included tenements and manager of the joint venture. The Quartz Hill Joint Venture comprises five granted Exploration Licences and eighteen Prospecting Licences, covering approximately 702 sq km (Figure 10). Field based exploration to date confirms the area is highly prospective for LCT-style (lithium-caesium-tantalum) pegmatite hosted lithium mineralisation. Exploration by Liatam has extended known lithium mineralisation at the Lepidolite Fields LCT pegmatite swarm target with best results from surface sampling8: 2.71% Li2O, and 828 ppm Cs2O 2.37% Li2O, 303 ppm Ta2O5 and 883 ppm Cs2O 2.14% Li2O, 615 ppm Ta2O5 and 1,195 ppm Cs2O 1.98% Li2O, 277 ppm Ta2O5 and 882 ppm Cs2O 1.64% Li2O, 651 ppm Ta2O5 and 2,390 ppm Cs2O 1.24% Li2O, 722 ppm Ta2O5 and 1,722 ppm Cs2O Approximately 9,000 m RC drilling is planned to test the ~ 6 km long and 0.8 km wide Lepidolite Fields LCT pegmatite swarm in H2 2024. Figure 10: Lepidolite Fields and Quartz Hill West exploration areas identified through mapping and surface sampling. A second LCT pegmatite swarm was identified at Quartz Hill West and The Gap with best surface results of9: 2.45% Li2O and 589 ppm Cs2O 2.23% Li2O, and 1,290 ppm Cs2O 1.22% Li2O, 181 ppm Ta2O5 and 780 ppm Cs2O A large regional, soil sampling program is also planned in H2 2024 to assist in identifying buried pegmatite swarms in three areas of no or poor outcrop at Cajuput Creek, Quartz Hill West / Lepidolite Fields and East Regional. CORPORATE Relinquishment of Tenure The Companys exploration programs across key Pilbara areas continue to be successful in identifying priority targets for exploration follow-up drilling along with identifying tenure that provides little further exploration value or follow-up. As a result, tenure of no value to Novos strategy, continues to be relinquished to reduce land tenure holding costs. The Company currently has an estimated ~6,700 sq km and reduced annual holding costs. Financial Update As at 30 June 2024, Novo had a cash balance of A$11.7 million (C$10.7 million). In addition, Novo has an investment portfolio of shares held in ASX-listed and unlisted companies that is valued at approximately A$46.2 million (C$42.1 million), consisting of: (1) ASX-listed companies, valued at approximately A$1 million (C$0.9 million) based on the closing price of those shares on 30 June 2024; and (2) Unlisted companies, valued at approximately A$45.2 million (C$41.2 million). Ticker Number of shares held Novos interest Value A$000 Value C$000 (1) ASX-listed shares* Kalamazoo Resources Limited ASX: KZR 10,000,000 5.72% $830 $758 GBM Resources Limited ASX: GBZ 11,363,637 1.00% $114 $104 Calidus Resources Limited** ASX: CAI 1,347,089 0.18% - - Kali Metals Limited (commenced trading January 8, 2024) ASX: KM1 566,947 0.39% $133 $122 (2) Unlisted shares*** Elementum 3D Inc. (E3D) Unlisted (US$) 2,076,560 8.84% $21,228 $19,383 San Cristobel Mining Inc. (SCM) Unlisted (US$) 2,000,000 4.32% $23,983 $21,899 *ASX-listed shares were converted to C$ using an exchange rate of C$ to A$ of 1 : 1.0952 ** Calidus Resources Limited went into voluntary administration on 28 June 2024, based on this management deemed it reasonable to impair the share value down to zero. The impairment was A$150k. ***The valuation of the unlisted shares held in E3D is in line with managements valuation as at 30 June 2024, converted using an exchange rate as at 30 June 2024 from US$ to C$ of 1 : 1.3687 and C$ to A$ of 1 : 1.0952. The valuation of the unlisted shares held in SCM is in line with managements valuation as at 30 June 2024 based on a private placement that commenced in March 2024, and closed in April 2024, converted using an exchange rate as at 31 March 2024 from US$ to C$ of 1 : 1.3687 and C$ to A$ of 1 : 1.0952. Shares held in Elementum 3D and San Cristobal Mining are initially recognised at fair value (and remeasured with reference to share prices at which funds are raised from third-party investors) or were based on independent valuations performed. For further information on Novos investment portfolio, please refer to Novos website. Project Generation Novo continues to focus its efforts on a dedicated and disciplined project generation and consolidation program to identify value accretive opportunities across targeted precious and base metals assets that complement the Companys current portfolio. Comet Well and Purdys North Novos board of directors has resolved to seek interest from parties who have an interest in owning or being part of a joint venture on the Comet Well and Purdys North project. As part of this decision, a sale process for Mechanical Ore Sorting is underway. Strategic Update Following the announcement on 29 February 2024 regarding the start of a recruitment process to identify and secure a qualified and experienced chief executive officer (CEO), with Mr Mike Spreadboroughs (current Executive Co-Chairman and acting CEO) move to the role of Non-Executive Chairman, the board has decided to suspend that process. This is in light of the experience and knowledge Mr Mike Spreadborough brings to the position and ensures continuity as the Company continues its focus on project generation activities. CONTACT Investors: Mike Spreadborough +61 8 6400 6100 info@novoresources.com North American Queries: Leo Karabelas +1 416 543 3120 leo@novoresources.com Media: Cameron Gilenko +61 466 984 953 cgilenko@citadelmagnus.com Authorised for release by Board of Directors. QP STATEMENT Ms De Luca (MAIG), is the qualified person, as defined under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, responsible for, and having reviewed and approved, the technical information contained in this news release. Ms De Luca is Novos General Manager Exploration. JORC COMPLIANCE STATEMENTS The information in this news release that relates to Exploration Results at the Karratha District Prospects (North Whundo, Railway Bore and East Well) is extracted from Novo's announcement titled Follow-up Drilling to commence at Nunyerry North and New Targets Defined Near Karratha dated 1 May 2024 (and released to ASX on 2 May 2024), which is available to view at www.asx.com.au . The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information in the original market announcement and that the form and context in which the Competent Persons findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcement. The information in this news release that relates to Exploration Results at Beltopper is extracted from Novo's announcement titled Significant Results from Diamond Drilling at Beltopper, Victoria dated 4 June 2024 (and released to ASX on 5 June 2024), which is available to view at www.asx.com.au . The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information in the original market announcement and that the form and context in which the Competent Persons findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcement. The information in this news release that relates to Exploration Results at Quartz Hill is extracted from Novo's announcement titled Lithium Exploration Update 2024 Quartz Hill Joint Venture dated 29 May 2024 (and released to ASX on 30 May 2024), which is available to view at www.asx.com.au . The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information in the original market announcement and that the form and context in which the Competent Persons findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcement. DISCLAIMER This Business Review constitutes a voluntary disclosure by the Company and is not a Quarterly Activities Report for the purposes of ASX Listing Rules 5.3 and 5.5 for which Novo has an exemption, as a foreign entity with its primary listing on an overseas exchange with a particular obligation imposed by the home exchange that is comparable to the ASX Listing Rule obligation. FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION Some statements in this news release contain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, planned exploration and the expected timing of receipt of assay results. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. Such factors include, without limitation, customary risks of the resource industry and the risk factors identified in Novos annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023, which is available under Novos profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and in the Companys prospectus dated 2 August 2023 which is available at www.asx.com.au. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date those statements are made. Except as required by applicable law, Novo assumes no obligation to update or to publicly announce the results of any change to any forward-looking statement contained or incorporated by reference herein to reflect actual results, future events or developments, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting the forward-looking statements. If Novo updates any forward-looking statement(s), no inference should be drawn that the Company will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. ABOUT NOVO Novo is an Australian based gold explorer listed on the ASX and the TSX focused on discovering standalone gold projects with > 1 Moz development potential. Novo is an innovative gold explorer with a significant land package covering approximately 6,700 square kilometres in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, along with the 22 square kilometre Belltopper project in the Bendigo Tectonic Zone of Victoria, Australia. Novos key project area is the Egina Gold Camp, where De Grey Mining (ASX: DEG) is farming-in to form a JV at the Becher Project and surrounding tenements through exploration expenditure of A$25 million within 4 years for a 50% interest. The Becher Project has similar geological characteristics as De Greys 12.7 Moz Hemi Project.10 Novo is also advancing gold exploration at Nunyerry North, part of the Croyden JV (Novo 70%: Creasy Group 30%), where 2023 exploration drilling identified significant gold mineralisation. Novo continues to undertake early-stage exploration across its Pilbara tenement portfolio. Novo has also formed lithium joint ventures with both Liatam and SQM in the Pilbara which provides shareholder exposure to battery metals. Novo has a significant investment portfolio and a disciplined program in place to identify value accretive opportunities that will build further value for shareholders. Please refer to Novos website for further information including the latest Corporate Presentation. __________________________________ 1 Refer to Novos news release dated 4 June 2024 Significant Results from Diamond Drilling at Belltopper, Victoria for full results (released to ASX on 5 June 2024). 2 See Footnote 1 above. 3 See Financial Update below for additional detail. 4 Refer also to news release dated 1 May 2024 Follow-Up Drilling to Commence at Nunyerry North and New Targets Defined Near Karratha (released to ASX on 2 May 2024). 5 Refer also to news release dated 1 May 2024 Follow-Up Drilling to Commence at Nunyerry North and New Targets Defined Near Karratha (released to ASX on 2 May 2024). 6 Refer to news release dated 4 June 2024 Significant Results from Diamond Drilling at Belltopper, Victoria (released to ASX on 5 June 2024). 7 See Footnote 5 above. 8 Refer to news release dated 29 May 2024 Lithium Exploration Update 2024 Quartz Hill Joint Venture (released to ASX on 30 May 2024). 9 See Footnote 7 above. 10 Refer to De Greys ASX Announcement, Hemi Gold Project Resource Update, dated 21 November 2023. No assurance can be given that a similar (or any) commercially viable mineral deposit will be determined at Novos Becher Project. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3ebdc867-ed31-45b1-853d-5f49d446b6d0 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4e8af12d-87f3-4a42-9df5-daf520ba3ab2 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7c5e9155-4922-4ca8-8fc8-be17ec78e810 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d3a02bba-0d77-4ad0-86a1-8692c56bd7c8 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/31741b61-f39c-4cbc-a065-f1fb998bca42 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/873cbe43-8407-4bb9-aaba-09c7f61cfc46 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7ef8b705-3ef5-498f-8234-f970d1011090 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e975d1db-4991-489e-8fc5-01151c1ca9f4 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/51429108-6783-4191-b391-ab9ffa121f71 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d97f5027-5a96-405e-a8a9-161ec8b0e46d Ramsey, NJ, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), is hosting members of its midwest and west communities of mid-market dealers in Chicago this week for its second High Velocity Dealer Summit of 2024. The event aims to provide dealers with tools to help optimize and benchmark their organizations against the current changing climate within the imaging channel. Laura Blackmer, President, Dealer Sales, opened the event with a general session, enlightening dealer partners and press on the strategic work going on behind the scenes at Konica Minolta. This includes everything from program development to support dealer profitability to creating a meeting format that allows for meaningful conversations that create more value for attendees. Michael Mathe, Chief Operating Officer provided updates on Konica Minoltas Revd Up Dealer Performance program, designed to future-proof dealerships by growing revenue and diversifying their businesses. Mathe shared success stories from dealers who have progressed to higher levels as they expanded their offerings to include print production, industrial print and digital transformation (DX) solutions. Jason Dizzine, Vice President, Portfolio Management and Planning provided updates on Konica Minoltas office and print production and industrial print product lines, stressing the focus on automation and how the company is making devices smarter and more convenient. A product showcase featuring many of Konica Minoltas cloud-based solutions for document print management, workflow and security solutions is available throughout the event. Dealers and members of the press will also get a first look at some of Konica Minoltas new bizhub One i-Series. The company recently relaunched its entire line of A3 and A4 multifunction printers. Breakout session topics during the event include digital transformation solutions, marketing programs and enhancements to service delivery. Rounding out the agenda are presentations on vertical market strategies, opportunities within production and industrial print and a panel discussion about automation for back-office supply delivery. This our second High Velocity event, the theme of which represents our growth mindset and desire to help both Konica Minolta and our partners accelerate market share and improve profitability, said Laura Blackmer, President, Dealer Sales, Konica Minolta. This smaller format gives us the chance to engage with our dealers in a much more intimate setting where we not only have the opportunity to present new strategies and offerings, we can answer questions and continue conversations in order to give dealers the information they need to succeed. We look forward to the invaluable one-on-one conversations we will have over the next couple of days. About Konica Minolta Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc.'s (Konica Minolta) journey started 150 years ago, with a vision to see and do things differently. The company innovates for the good of society and the world. The same purpose that kept it moving then, keeps it moving now. Konica Minolta aims to partner with clients to Give Shape to Ideas by supporting their digital transformation through its expansive Intelligent Connected Workplace portfolio. Its business technology offerings include IT Services, intelligent information management, video security solutions and managed print services, as well as office technology and industrial and commercial print solutions. Through its ongoing work, the company is fortunate to be continuously recognized for its products and services. This includes, but is not limited to being included on CRNs MSP 500 list numerous times; named a finalist in the IT Software Category by The World Technology Awards; recognized as the #1 Brand for Customer Loyalty in the MFP Office Copier Market by Brand Keys and presented with Keypoint Intelligences BLI 2021 A3 Line of The Year and BLI 2021-2023 Most Color Consistent A3 Brand Awards for its bizhub i-Series. For more information, please visit Konica Minolta online and follow its account on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and Twitter. # # # # # Attachments Dublin, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Holter Monitor based Aesthetic Devices (EAD) - Market Insights, Competitive Landscape, and Market Forecast - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global Holter monitor market is projected to experience notable expansion through 2030, according to a recent market analysis. Growth in this sector is attributed to a rising prevalence of cardiovascular disorders, improvements in patient monitoring technologies, and a shift toward ambulatory monitoring devices. With a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.13% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2030, the market is expected to register considerable growth. Impact of Lifestyle Disorders The increasing burden of lifestyle-based disorders, such as hypertension and obesity, is notably impacting the Holter monitor market. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that an estimated 1.28 billion adults globally are affected by hypertension. Moreover, projections indicate that by 2025, over a billion people may suffer from obesity. The growing incidence of lifestyle diseases is expected to enhance the demand for Holter monitors, which are crucial for diagnosing and managing cardiovascular conditions. Technological Advancements Advancements in technology are contributing significantly to market growth, as is evidenced by recent FDA approvals and product launches. For example, Biotricity recently received FDA 510(k) clearance for its Biotres Cardiac Monitoring Device, which offers enhanced comfort for prolonged use. Furthermore, VitalConnect, Inc. launched its VitalPatch RTM cardiac monitoring solution to cater to the extended Holter monitoring needs. Regional Market Dominance North America is anticipated to hold a dominant position in the Holter monitor market due to the high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and strong demand for early detection and monitoring solutions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a high incidence of atrial fibrillation in the United States, underlining the necessity for effective monitoring and management of heart arrhythmias in the region. Key Players and Developmental Activities The market landscape features influential players such as Koninklijke Philips N.V., Hill-Rom Services, Inc., SCHILLER, and GE Healthcare, among others. These leaders are focusing on innovation, strategic mergers, and expansions to broaden their market presence. Recent acquisitions, like that of Preventice Solutions, Inc. by Boston Scientific, demonstrate an ongoing commitment to advancing the Holter monitor industry. As the industry navigates through regulatory processes and endeavors to meet the evolving needs of patients worldwide, the Holter monitor market will continue to be an area of focus for those seeking solutions to manage and monitor cardiovascular health effectively. A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to: Koninklijke Philips N.V. Hill-Rom Services, Inc. (Baxter) SCHILLER dms-service LLC BPL Medical Technologies GE Healthcare FUKUDA DENSHI VitalConnect OSI Systems, Inc. Biotricity Viatom Technology Co. Ltd. Suzuken Company Limited Preventice Solutions, Inc. NORAV Medical MediBioSense Ltd Innomed Medical Bittium For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/oz3650 About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ZEFIRO METHANE CORP. (Cboe Canada: ZEFI) (Frankfurt: Y6B) (OTCQB: ZEFIF) (the Company, Zefiro, or ZEFI) today announced that Zefiros subsidiary, Plants & Goodwin, Inc. (P&G) has executed a Securities Exchange Agreement (the Agreement) to acquire the remaining common shares of P&G from the entitys Chief Executive Officer Luke Plants in exchange for newly issued preferred stock in P&G. The Transaction does not contain any cash component and the Company is confident the Transaction will be cash flow accretive and better position Zefiro to more effectively manage its liquidity and use of debt capital to advance critical commercial expansion initiatives. In May 2023, Zefiro acquired an initial 75% ownership stake in P&G to bolster the Companys operational presence across the Appalachia region through P&Gs decades-long history of service in Pennsylvania, New York, West Virginia, and Ohio. Since becoming a Zefiro subsidiary, P&G has organically increased its revenues by 50%, eclipsed P&Gs prior profitability record, hired more than 60 full-time employees, and achieved numerous other commercial milestones, including: acquiring a Cambridge, Ohio-based wireline services company to expand P&Gs suite of environmental remediation service offerings; and opening an additional facility in Buckhannon, West Virginia to increase southern Appalachia client services while decreasing operational expenses. In connection with the Transaction, Luke Plants has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer of Zefiro Services and Executive Vice President of Business Development. Mr. Plants was previously appointed Zefiros Vice President of Business Development in December 2023. Readers using news aggregation services may be unable to view the media above. Please access SEDAR+ or the Investors section of the Companys website for a version of this press release containing all published media. Zefiro Founder and CEO Talal Debs commented, For over a year, P&G has played a key role in Zefiros growth into one of the methane reduction sectors leading remediation service providers. This transaction can not only bolster our capacity to generate high-quality carbon credits for leading institutional traders, but also promote alignment amongst subsidiary organizations throughout Zefiros fully integrated methane abatement services strategy, led by Luke and P&G field crews across our service territory. Their extensive expertise positions Zefiro to continue both expanding across North America and partnering with state and federal agencies to reduce leaks from orphan wells. Our entire senior leadership team could not be more excited to continue working with Luke and his staff to help expedite the Companys commercial growth. CEO of Zefiro Services and Executive Vice President of Business Development Luke Plants commented, Becoming an essential part of Zefiros innovative, fully integrated commercial blueprint has provided our abandonment specialists with exciting new challenges across our key Appalachian markets. Producing repeatable, sustainable carbon credits will, we believe, become a vital instrument for financing critical environmental remediation projects, and this finalized agreement will best position P&G to continue expanding our operational footprint, bolster profitability, and help safeguard more communities in need. At the closing of the transactions contemplated by the Agreement (the Transaction), a wholly owned subsidiary of Zefiro will own 100% of the common shares of P&G and Luke Plants will own approximately 7.01 million newly issued Series A Convertible Preferred Shares of P&G (the Preferred Shares) that entitle him to, in addition to other customary rights, (a) a US $1.00 per share initial liquidation preference and (b) a 10% per annum dividend, payable in kind, until the later of June 30, 2028 or the achievement of US $10 million in June-to-June annual operating cash flow at P&G (after which dividends will be payable in cash). The Preferred Shares will be redeemable at P&Gs option at the liquidation preference (including any accrued but unpaid dividends) following the earlier of Luke Plants termination as an employee of Zefiro and its affiliates or the second anniversary of the closing of the Transaction. The Preferred Shares will automatically convert at a conversion price of US $1.20 per share upon the completion of a qualified public offering of P&G or an affiliate of P&G (the IPO Issuer) on a nationally recognized U.S. stock exchange into common stock of the IPO Issuer. The closing of the Transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to occur prior to August 31, 2024. Reporters/Media: For any questions or to arrange an interview with Dr. Debs or Mr. Plants, please contact Rich Myers of Profile Advisors (New York City) by email at media@zefiromethane.com or by telephone at +1 (347) 774-1125. About Zefiro Methane Corp. Zefiro is an environmental services company, specializing in methane abatement. Zefiro strives to be a key commercial force towards Active Sustainability. Leveraging decades of operational expertise, Zefiro is building a new toolkit to clean up air, land, and water sources directly impacted by methane leaks. The Company has built a fully integrated ground operation driven by an innovative monetization solution for the emerging methane abatement marketplace. As an originator of high-quality U.S.-based methane offsets, Zefiro aims to generate long-term economic, environmental, and social returns. On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Company, ZEFIRO METHANE CORP. Talal Debs Talal Debs, Founder & CEO For further information, please contact: Zefiro Investor Relations 1 (800) 274-ZEFI (274-9334) investor@zefiromethane.com For media inquiries, please contact: Rich Myers - Profile Advisors (New York) media@zefiromethane.com +1 (347) 774-1125 Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as seeks, believes, plans, expects, intends, estimates, anticipates and statements that an event or result may, will, should, could or might occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information including statements regarding: the Transaction, including its closing, terms and cash flow accretion; the Preferred Shares, including their issuance, redemption or conversion; any future public offering of stock; liquidity and use of debt capital; commercial expansion initiatives; operational presence and operating expenses; project financing; the Companys goal to reduce emissions from end-of-life oil and gas wells and reduce methane gas; the Companys partnerships with industry operators, state agencies, and federal governments; the Companys expectations for continued increases in revenues and EBITDA growth as a result of these partnerships; the Companys intentions to build out its presence in the United States; the anticipated federal funding for orphaned well site plugging, remediation and restoring activities; the Companys expectations to become a growing environmental services company; the Companys ability to provide institutional and retail investors alike with the opportunity to join the Active Sustainability movement; the Companys ability to generate long-term economic, environmental, and social returns; and other statements regarding the Companys business and the industry in which the Company operates. The forward-looking information reflects managements current expectations based on information currently available and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking information. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed timeframes or at all. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: (i) adverse general market and economic conditions; (ii) changes to and price and volume volatility in the carbon market; (iii) changes to the regulatory landscape and global policies applicable to the Company's business; (iv) failure to obtain all necessary regulatory approvals; and (v) other risk factors set forth in its Prospectus dated April 8, 2024 under the heading Risk Factors. The Company operates in a rapidly evolving environment where technologies are in the early stage of adoption. New risk factors emerge from time to time, and it is impossible for the Companys management to predict all risk factors, nor can the Company assess the impact of all factors on Companys business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ from those contained in any forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this news release is based on the opinions and assumptions that management considered reasonable as of the date hereof, including, but not limited to, the assumption that general business and economic conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information. The forward-looking information included in this news release is made as of the date of this news release and the Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. No Offer of Securities This communication shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. Statement Regarding Third-Party Investor Relations Firms Disclosures relating to investor relations firms retained by Zefiro Methane Corp. can be found under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca/ . A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/503b76b5-e7fe-48ed-bf2b-cb8a3187557b DENVER and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cologix , a leading network-neutral interconnection and hyperscale edge data center company in North America, announced its collaboration with Consensus Core , an AI cloud service provider, to support the needs of AI technologies at its MTL10 Scalelogix SM data center in Montreal, Canada. This collaboration enables Consensus Core to launch a new, NVIDIA-powered GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS) in the Canadian market and transforms MTL10 into a hub for its high-performance AI workloads. As a registered member of the NVIDIA Partner Network, Consensus Core will supercharge AI in Canada, said Wayne Lloyd, co-founder and CEO of Consensus Core. Implementing AI in data centers with the powerful NVIDIA accelerated computing platform requires a specialized approach. We have selected Cologix to address this need. As a Canadian company, we sought a partner offering colocation services for GPUs for both Canadian and international clients. Cologixs hyperscale and highly interconnected data centers enable us to densify and scale our services to meet customer demands efficiently. GPUaaS offers powerful graphics processing units over the internet, designed for tasks including AI, machine learning and 3D rendering that require massive parallel processing capabilities. Unlike general cloud services that use general-purpose platforms for a wide range of applications, GPUaaS provides specialized, high-performance computing for specific AI tasks. This benefits companies that want to start doing AI workloads because instead of buying and maintaining their own physical servers and hardware, they can get access to NVIDIA accelerated computing on a per-hour basis from Consensus Core. This means less downtime waiting for delivery and easy-to-use tools to deliver business results faster. NVIDIA H100 Tensor Core GPU-accelerated clusters will power Consensus Cores GPUaaS operated in Cologixs Montreal data center. NVIDIA H100 extends the NVIDIA A100 Tensor Core GPUs global-to-shared asynchronous transfer capabilities across all address spaces and adds support for tensor memory access patterns. It enables applications to build end-to-end asynchronous pipelines that move data into and off the chip, completely overlapping and hiding data movement with computation. MTL10 is among Cologixs largest network-neutral data centers, offering connectivity via high-count, diverse and scalable fiber with direct access to the Meet-Me-Room (MMR) in Montreal at Cologixs MTL3 facility. The data center also offers strong interconnection capabilities to build and scale businesses with more than 100 unique network providers and low-latency connections to hyperscale cloud providers. MTL10 is a 180,000-square-foot, purpose-built facility that is ISO 27001 certified by Schellman and HIPAA, SOC1, SOC2 and PCI compliant. Were thrilled to partner with Consensus Core to bring its GPUaaS offering to Canada, said Sean Maskell, President and General Manager of Cologix Canada. Consensus Cores innovative solution fills a critical gap in the market, empowering businesses of all sizes to leverage the immense power of AI and machine learning. At Cologix, we are deeply committed to supporting the growth of the Canadian technology sector, and this collaboration demonstrates our dedication to providing the essential infrastructure and services that businesses need to thrive in todays world. This collaboration between Cologix and Consensus Core positions MTL10 as the premier hub for high-performance AI in Canada, providing businesses with the infrastructure and tools required to take advantage of the full potential of AI technologies. About Consensus Core Consensus Core is revolutionizing the AI landscape by offering high-performance GPUs and networking tailored to all AI needs. As part of the NVIDIA Partner Network, it provides businesses with scalable, secure, and sustainable solutions to train their AI models and deploy high-performance applications. About Cologix Inc. Cologix provides carrier- and cloud-neutral hyperscale edge data centers and services in 12 markets across North America. Cologix is the interconnection hub for cloud service providers, carriers and a rich ecosystem of partners who want to deploy applications at the very edge across Canada and the U.S. With a growing portfolio of next generation facilities that meet the unique requirements for hyperscale growth with deep connectivity, Cologix offers massive scale and tailor-made data center solutions to accelerate its customers businesses at the digital edge. For on-demand connectivity for scale and control, Cologix Access Marketplace provides fast, reliable and self-service provisioning. For a tour of one of our data centers in Ashburn, Columbus, Dallas, Des Moines, Jacksonville, Lakeland, Minneapolis, Montreal, New Jersey, Silicon Valley, Toronto or Vancouver visit Cologix or email . Follow Cologix on LinkedIn and Twitter . Media Contact for Cologix: Shifali Erasmus, Crackle PR Cologix@cracklepr.com Dublin, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "India In Vitro Fertilization Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Instrument (Equipment, Culture Media), Procedure Type (Fresh Nondonor), Providers, and Segment Forecasts, 2024-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The India In vitro fertilization market size is anticipated to reach USD 1.82 billion by 2030, and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.8% from 2024 to 2030 The market is witnessing growth due to multifaceted driving factors such as rising infertility rates and increasing awareness and acceptance of IVF. The growth of India's in vitro fertilization market is fueled by rising technological advancements. Innovations such as preimplantation genetic testing, and time-lapse imaging have enhanced the efficiency and outcomes of IVF treatments, making them more appealing to prospective parents. Furthermore, India has become a favored destination for medical tourism, particularly for fertility treatments such as IVF. The country offers top-notch healthcare services at competitive prices, attracting overseas patients for affordable and trustworthy IVF procedures. Additionally, the government of India has taken steps to support the growth of the market by implementing policies that promote accessibility to fertility treatments and regulate assisted reproductive technologies. This supportive regulatory environment has encouraged investment in the sector and expanded access to IVF services. For instance, in February 2024, the government of Telangana launched the state's first high-end In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) to assist infertility couples at Gandhi Hospital. India In Vitro Fertilization Market Report Highlights Culture media dominated the instrument segment market, with a share of around 40% in 2023, owing to increased funding availability and growing research and development. The disposable devices sector in the instrument segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period due to growing demand for single-use devices to prevent cross-contamination and ensure patient safety. In the procedure type segment, frozen nondonor accounted for the largest share of around 48%, in 2023. This is attributable to cost-effectiveness compared to fresh donor eggs or embryo transplants. The fresh donor sector in the procedure type segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR owing to the increased demand for egg and sperm donors and the vast donor population in India. In the provider segment, fertility clinics held the largest share of around 80% in 2023 and is anticipated to witness the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, owing to increasing infertility, rising awareness and acceptance of IVF, and availability of specialists. In December 2023, CK Birla Healthcare Pvt. Ltd announced the launch of its new fertility and IVF clinic in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Companies Featured CK Birla Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. Nova IVF Indira IVF Hospital Private Limited. Apollo Fertility (Apollo Specialty Hospitals Pvt. Ltd.) Max Healthcare Manipal Health Enterprises Pvt Ltd Bloom Fertility Centre BACC Healthcare Private Limited Cloudnine Hospitals Morpheus IVF Babies and Us Fertility and IVF Centre (Ind) Pvt Ltd Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 70 Forecast Period 2023 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $1.06 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $1.82 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 7.8% Regions Covered India Key Topics Covered: Chapter 1. Methodology and Scope Chapter 2. Executive Summary 2.1. Market Outlook 2.2. Segment Outlook 2.2.1. Instrument outlook 2.2.2. Procedure type outlook 2.2.3. Providers outlook 2.3. Competitive Insights Chapter 3. India In Vitro Fertilization Market Variables, Trends & Scope 3.1. Market Lineage Outlook 3.1.1. Parent market outlook 3.1.2. Related/ancillary market outlook 3.2. Market Dynamics 3.2.1. Market driver analysis 3.2.1.1. Technological advancements in assisted reproductive technology 3.2.1.2. Emergence of fertility tourism 3.2.1.3. Rising awareness about fertility treatments 3.2.2. Market restraint analysis 3.2.2.1. High cost of IVF treatments 3.2.2.2. Ethical concerns surrounding IVF treatments 3.3. India In Vitro Fertilization Market Analysis Tools 3.3.1. Industry Analysis - Porter's 3.3.2. PESTEL Analysis Chapter 4. India In Vitro Fertilization Market: Instrument Estimates & Trend Analysis 4.1. Instrument Market Share, 2023 & 2030 4.2. Segment Dashboard 4.3. India In Vitro Fertilization Market by Instrument Outlook 4.4. Market Size & Forecasts and Trend Analyses, 2018 to 2030 4.4.1. Disposable Devices 4.4.1.1. Market estimates and forecasts 2018 to 2030 (USD Million) 4.4.1.1.1. Cryopreservation Media 4.4.1.1.2. Embryo Culture Media 4.4.1.1.3. Ovum Processing Media 4.4.1.1.4. Sperm Processing Media 4.4.2. Culture Media 4.4.2.1. Market estimates and forecasts 2018 to 2030 (USD Million) 4.4.2.1.1. Sperm Analyzer Systems 4.4.2.1.2. Imaging Systems 4.4.2.1.3. Ovum Aspiration Pumps 4.4.2.1.4. Micromanipulator Systems 4.4.2.1.5. Incubators 4.4.2.1.6. Gas Analyzers 4.4.2.1.7. Laser Systems 4.4.2.1.8. Cryosystems 4.4.2.1.9. Sperm Separation Devices 4.4.2.1.10. IVF Cabinets 4.4.2.1.11. Ant- Vibration Tables 4.4.2.1.12. Witness Systems 4.4.3. Equipment Chapter 5. India In Vitro Fertilization Market: Procedure Type Estimates & Trend Analysis 5.1. Procedure Type Market Share, 2023 & 2030 5.2. Segment Dashboard 5.3. India In Vitro Fertilization Market by Procedure Type Outlook 5.4. Market Size & Forecasts and Trend Analyses, 2018 to 2030 5.4.1. Fresh Donor 5.4.2. Frozen Donor 5.4.3. Fresh Non-Donor 5.4.4. Frozen Non-Donor Chapter 6. India In Vitro Fertilization Market: Providers Estimates & Trend Analysis 6.1. Providers Market Share, 2023 & 2030 6.2. Segment Dashboard 6.3. India In Vitro Fertilization Market by Providers Outlook 6.4. Market Size & Forecasts and Trend Analyses, 2018 to 2030 6.4.1. Fertility Clinics 6.4.2. Hospitals & Other settings Chapter 7. Competitive Landscape 7.1. Recent Developments & Impact Analysis, By Key Market Participants 7.2. Company/Competition Categorization 7.3. Vendor Landscape 7.3.1. List of key distributors and channel partners 7.3.2. Key customers 7.3.3. Key company heat map analysis, 2023 7.4. Company Profiles 7.4.1. Company overview 7.4.2. Financial performance 7.4.3. Product benchmarking 7.4.4. Strategic initiatives For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/pj9lfh About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment SAINT PAUL, Minn., Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Representative of the United States to the United Nations, will visit the offices of the GREATER MSP Partnership to share lessons learned from ongoing efforts to address global food insecurity and to highlight the importance of public-private partnerships to provide faster and more efficient solutions to the root causes of this issue. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield will be accompanied by USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small. In Saint Paul, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield will join the GREATER MSP Partnership for a roundtable discussion with members of its MBOLD coalition, leaders of some of the worlds foremost food and agriculture companies, research institutions and nonprofit organizations. The coalition is working to accelerate solutions to the most pressing challenges facing the food and agriculture sectors today, including regenerative agriculture practices, climate resiliency and the development of sustainable proteins. The conversation will delve into one of the ambassadors top priorities: domestic and global food security. GREATER MSP is honored to host a conversation with the Ambassador on food security, a pressing issue in our community and around the world, said Peter Frosch, President and Chief Executive Officer of the GREATER MSP Partnership. She heard how companies, universities and nonprofits based in Minnesota are working together on solutions to make food more abundant in countries around the world while also reducing the impact on the environment." Minnesota is home to an unparalleled concentration of globally leading food and agriculture companies and research institutions, and MBOLD serves as the front door to their combined efforts to tackle global, national and local food sustainability challenges. Attendees at the GREATER MSP roundtable will include senior executives and representatives from the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute (AURI), Cargill, Compeer Financial, General Mills, the McKnight Foundation, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the University of Minnesota. About the GREATER MSP Partnership GREATER MSP is the economic development partnership for the 15-county MinneapolisSaint Paul region. GREATER MSP is a coalition of more than 4,500 individuals from more than 300 leading businesses, universities, cities, counties and philanthropic organizations working together to accelerate competitiveness and inclusive economic growth of the 15-county MinneapolisSaint Paul region while leading the nation in tackling the most difficult challenges of the new economy. For more information, go to greatermsp.org. Media contact: Don Ball, 612-810-3153, don.ball@greatermsp.org REGULATED RELEASE KLEPIERRE RELEASES ITS FIRST-HALF 2024 FINANCIAL REPORT Paris August 6, 2024 Klepierre announced the public release and the filing of its first-half 2024 financial report with the Autorite des marches financiers (AMF) on August 6, 2024. It may be read and downloaded from the Klepierre website, www.klepierre.com, under the Finance section. INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACTS MEDIA CONTACTS Paul Logerot, Group Head of IR and Financial Communication +33 (0)7 50 66 05 63 paul.logerot@klepierre.com Hugo Martins, IR Manager +33 (0)7 72 11 63 24 hugo.martins@klepierre.com Tanguy Phelippeau, IR Manager +33 (0)7 72 09 29 57 tanguy.phelippeau@klepierre.com Helene Salmon, Group Head of Communications +33 (0)6 43 41 97 18 helene.salmon@klepierre.com Wandrille Clermontel, Taddeo +33 (0)6 33 05 48 50 teamklepierre@taddeo.fr ABOUT KLEPIERRE Klepierre is the premier shopping malls specialist with an exclusive focus on continental Europe, combining property development and asset management skills. The Companys portfolio is valued at 19.9 billion at June 30, 2024, and comprises large shopping centers in more than 10 countries in Continental Europe which together host hundreds of millions of visitors per year. Klepierre holds a controlling stake in Steen & Strm (56.1%), one of the leading operators of shopping centers in Scandinavia. Klepierre is a French REIT (SIIC) listed on Euronext Paris and is included in the CAC Next 20 and EPRA Euro Zone Indexes. It is also included in ethical indexes, such as CAC SBT 1.5, MSCI Europe ESG Leaders, FTSE4Good, Euronext Vigeo Europe 120, and features in CDPs A-list. These distinctions underscore the Groups commitment to a proactive sustainable development policy and its global leadership in the fight against climate change. For more information, please visit the newsroom on our website: www.klepierre.com Attachment MILWAUKEE, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Following Real American Beers successful launches in Florida, Minnesota, Missouri, Rhode Island, Colorado, Michigan, Idaho, and Montana, the premium American-made light lager co-founded by WWE Hall of Fame wrestler Hulk Hogan is now set to make its highly-anticipated debut today in Wisconsin. Wisconsin marks the ninth market to launch in Real American Beer's high-impact summer rollout. With its Wisconsin launch, Real American Beer continues its unprecedented momentum in a state renowned for its brewing heritage and beer-loving culture. Real American Beer is a premium American-style light lager meticulously brewed with 100% North American ingredients. At 4.2% ABV, it provides an easy-drinking experience, a light body, and a crisp, clean finish. The malt gives it a rich golden hue, while the hops ensure a well-balanced flavor. "Launching Real American Beer in Wisconsin is a milestone for us," said Hulk Hogan. "This states rich beer heritage is legendary and worldwide. Ive been talking with Wisconsins retailers and distributors and hearing about the massive demand for this amazing beer. Were making sure that all of Wisconsin can enjoy our brew and celebrate the American spirit together, brother. Over the coming weeks, Real American Beer will be available at top Wisconsin retailers, bars, and restaurants and through major national outlets, including Festival Foods, Kwik Trip, Piggly Wiggly, Total Wine, Walmart, Woodmans, and many more. Real American Beer has been at the top of our lists all summer, with our customers practically begging for it, following the shirt-rip heard around the world! We are pleased to launch this exceptional new beer in Wisconsin, said Don Quinlan, North American Brand Manager at Wisconsin Distributors. Were proud to work hand-in-hand with Hulk Hogan to bring customers an experience and beer that promises great taste and promotes unity. Hulks personal involvement embodies the spirit of a real American and a unity that resonates with Wisconsinites, making Real American Beer a perfect complement to our local scene. An extensive and growing lineup of Real American Beer merchandise and apparel is also now available for purchase globally from its online store. For more information on Real American Beer, including the full list of launch events and where to buy, visit therealamerican.com and follow @therealamericanbeer on social media. Media Contact: press@therealamerican.com DALLAS, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, SUCCESS magazine revealed Daymond John, serial entrepreneur, investor, philanthropist, and star of Shark Tank, as the cover talent for the September/October 2024 issue. Dubbed the Entrepreneur issue, it explores the innovation, resilience, grit, and drive that fuel entrepreneurship. "I had the incredible opportunity to interview Daymond John for our September/October issue and his journey from FUBU founder to Shark Tank star is truly inspirational. His insights on resilience and innovation during our cover shoot in Miami were profoundly impactful on so many levels, says Kerrie Lee Brown, editor-in-chief and VP Media of SUCCESS Enterprises. Daymond's story not only resonates with our readers, but also exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship that SUCCESS magazine aims to celebrate every issue. He is the perfect person to grace the cover of our first-ever Entrepreneur-themed issue." The Entrepreneur issue also features Change Enthusiasms Cassandra Worthy on how harnessing your emotions can help you thrive through change, insights on Jason Tarticks strategy for building his brand based on his experience on The Bachelorette and his financial background, and a roundup of the top 10 visionary founders behind brands like Airbnb, Google, Taylor Swift Productions, Nike, and more. For more information, visit success.comor pick up a copy at your local newsstand today. Contact Information: Kerrie Lee Brown VP Media and Editor-in-Chief, SUCCESS Enterprises kerrie.brown@success.com About SUCCESS Enterprises Founded in 1897, SUCCESS is a leading multimedia company dedicated to personal and professional development. Through SUCCESS magazine, SUCCESS.com, newsletters, videos, and more, SUCCESS inspires individuals to dream big and live their own definition of success. Optimism, determination, and resilience drive SUCCESS mission to provide individuals with tools and education for continuous growth and lasting success. For more information, visit success.com. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ab671fcd-fc3e-4e78-a778-571f457ac14e Dubai, UAE, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Zeebu, the Web3 payments and settlement platform for the telecom industry, announces a new partnership with SilentSwap, the privacy-focused cross-chain aggregator powered by Secret Network. This collaboration aims to enhance privacy and security for transactions, advancing Zeebus mission to revolutionize global telecom settlements. Zeebus platform, known for its blockchain-based solutions that ensure trustless, frictionless, and superfast global transactions, will now benefit from SilentSwap's advanced technology. This integration will enable Zeebu to handle all future transactions in a private and decentralized manner, utilizing SilentSwap's SDK for seamless operations. The SilentSwap partnership means our customers get access to cutting-edge decentralized technology from a trusted developer, said Raj Brahmbhatt, CEO of Zeebu. Weve been talking with Zeebu for months and were excited to finally announce this vital partnership between two giants in the decentralized space, said Shibtoshi, SilentSwaps CEO. This partnership goes beyond integrating cutting-edge technology. It sets new standards for privacy and security in the telecom industry while leading the charge in decentralized finance (DeFi). Combining the strengths of both companies, Zeebu aims to offer a more secure application, attract new users, and significantly impact the DeFi space. About Zeebu Zeebu is a blockchain-based platform tailored to meet every telecom settlement need. The companys mission is to enable trustless, frictionless, and superfast global transactions, transforming the way telecom companies handle settlements. About SilentSwap SilentSwap is a privacy-focused cross-chain aggregator powered by Secret Network. The companys mission is to provide non-custodial, trustless, and decentralized solutions that safeguard user privacy and enhance security. For more information, visit www.zeebu.com Media Contact: Riya Yadav riya.yadav@zeebu.com Dubai, UAE Disclaimer: There is no offer to sell, no solicitation of an offer to buy, and no recommendation of any security or any other product or service in this article. This is not investment advice. Please do your own research. VERO BEACH, FL, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mitesco, Inc. (OTC:MITI, the Company, www.mitescoinc.com ) today announced that its Centcore Cloud Computing business unit ( www.centcoreusa.com ) has initiated its infrastructure application offerings through a formal relation with Esri and Esris Partner Network. Esri is the global leader in location intelligence with powerful mapping and spatial analytics tools designed to serve public and private sector organizations of all sizes. This partnership gives Centcore access to cutting-edge GIS software and geospatial support in all aspects of the technology. Centcore intends to implement the full Esri Enterprise application set including ArcGIS Server powers mapping and analysis in your GIS, including several specialized server roles, and scales dynamically to support traffic; ArcGIS Enterprise portal is the central hub where users create, share, and manage maps, apps, and spatial data and share them with collaborators; ArcGIS Data Store provides data storage for the hosting server used with your deployment, and ArcGIS Web Adaptor integrates ArcGIS Server and Portal for ArcGIS with your existing web servers and your organization's security infrastructure. Mack Leath, CEO of Mitesco, commented, Esri is the clear leader in geographical information systems (GIS), installed at 50% of Fortune 500 companies, most national governments, 20,000 cities, 50 US states and many universities. This is all about recognizing the growth in the geospatial industry and gaining access to resources that help us improve our clients and GIS partners experience when they use Centcores services. We believe that having the Esri application set available on our highly secure, high performance computing environment can provide GIS users significant savings over alternatives, either in-house or on more expensive platforms such as AWS, MS Azure or Google Cloud." When asked about the market opportunity, Leath replied, Industry sources report that the global Geographic Information System (GIS) market was valued at $12.9 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a significant rate between 2023 and 2031. Different sources project the market size to reach between $14.5 billion and $35.5 billion by 20252032, with compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) ranging from 11.5% to 13.38%. Clearly, the Esri business opportunity has the potential to be worth tens of millions in revenue, though there is no guarantee that we will be able to show their target market the value we propose. Supporting the Centcore effort will be Tom Simon , the owner of Synthos, LLC, ( www.Synthos.co ), a provider of development and support services specializing in geographical information systems (GIS) based in Seattle, Washington. His services include data procurement and analysis, spatial and statistical analysis using industry leading applications such as Esri's Arc-Info and Trimble Navigation. His clients include telecoms, power providers, environmental engineering, and infrastructure management as well as governmental agencies such as NOAA, EPA and USACE. For more information about Centcore and how you can take advantage of their data center offerings, contact Brian Valania at bvalania@centcoreusa.com or call 610-888-7509. To set an appointment with Tom Simon at Synthos, LLC, call 206-519-8087, or send an email to: tom@synthos.co . About the Esri Partner Network: The Esri Partner Network is a rich ecosystem of organizations that work together to amplify The Science of Where. Partners deliver solutions, content, and services using the Esri location intelligence. About Esri Esri, the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping, helps customers unlock the full potential of data to improve operational and business results. Founded in 1969 in Redlands, California, USA, Esri software is deployed in more than 350,000 organizations globally and in over 200,000 institutions in the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, nonprofits, and universities. Esri has regional offices, international distributors, and partners providing local support in over 100 countries on six continents. With its pioneering commitment to geospatial information technology, Esri engineers the most innovative solutions for digital transformation, the Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced analytics. Visit esri.com for more information. About Centcore, LLC Centcore, LLC (www.centcoreusa.com) is a wholly owned business unit of Mitesco, Inc. providing highly secure data center resources and managed services for dedicated applications and custom development. Within its primary site is extensive high-performance computing and storage aimed at data intensive applications. It is growing a library of applications for resale from its users including providers of services and solutions. It can offer specialized computing capabilities within its 25,000 sq. ft. data center, including development platforms for scientific computing, image processing and A.I. oriented systems. About Mitesco, Inc. Mitesco (www.mitescoinc.com ) is seeking to build a growth-oriented company, providing products, services and technology to make accessible, higher quality, and more affordable solutions. The Mitesco team has experience in both start-ups and turnarounds intent on building successful growth situations, using both organic and acquisition growth strategies. Mitesco embraces the belief that when consumers' expectations are exceeded, the business' performance may do so as well. Contact: Mitesco Investor Relations Jimmy Caplan jimmycaplan@me.com 512.329.9505 Mitesco Media Relations Rick Eisenberg eiscom@msn.com 917-691-8934 Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements related to the expected foreclosure of several of our clinics. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "aims," "projects," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "seeks," "assumes," "may," "should," "could," "would," "foresees," "forecasts," "predicts," "targets," "commitments," and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. We caution you that the foregoing may not include all the forward-looking statements made in this press release. These forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current plans, assumptions, beliefs, and expectations. Forward-looking statements are subject to the occurrence of many events outside of the Company's control. Actual results and the timing of events may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements due to numerous factors that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the ability to obtain additional financing; the risk that commenced and threatened litigation may result in material judgments against the Company; and other risks and uncertainties included in the Company's reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K and in other filings the Company makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time, available at www.sec.gov. CHARLESTON, S.C., Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global Water Center started a Carbon Credit Program to make rural water systems financially sustainable. This innovative program helps safe water organizations and rural communities acquire additional financial support to establish, maintain, and operate rural water systems. It is challenging and unrealistic to rely on traditional sources of capital (e.g. philanthropy, donations, and grants) to truly scale safe drinking water projects, said Eric Wei, president of the Carbon Credit Program. The carbon market provides much more stable, sustainable funding, but few safe water organizations are currently accessing it. The Carbon Credit Program helps safe drinking water project developers access the carbon market by meeting the data and process requirements mandated by the carbon standards and registries. Additionally, the program works directly with rural communities to ensure they have the necessary resources to upkeep their water systems. Global Water Centers Carbon Credit Program team: Anne Lyngdoh, Eric Wei, and Chelsea Inglis (left to right) Within the programs first few months, Global Water Center signed a carbon consulting agreement with Water Mission, a Christian engineering nonprofit that builds safe water, sanitation, and hygiene solutions in developing countries and disaster areas. The Carbon Credit Program is supporting Water Mission in relation to an initial portfolio of 17 safe drinking water projects in Kenya and Malawi serving up to 100,000 people with safe water access. The Carbon Credit Program is also in discussions with project developers, nonprofits, and communities in Ethiopia, Honduras, Nicaragua, and El Salvador. Global Water Center envisions the Carbon Credit Program growing to finance sustainable safe water systems around the world. About Global Water Center Global Water Center believes everyone deserves access to safely managed water. Our three-pronged approach of education, innovation, and collaboration focuses on making rural water projects more sustainable. As the go-to resource for the rural water sector, our safe water resources have reached people in 131 countries. In addition to education, we also use innovative technology to make water projects more effective and reliable. All of our efforts are rooted in collaboration with non-profits, governments, and other entities. Together, we are solving the global water crisis. Media Contact: Alyson Rockhold Director of Global Engagement Global Water Center +1 843.693.3430 arockhold@globalwatercenter.org Learn more: https://globalwatercenter.org/carbon-credits-an-innovative-solution/ A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7a1166e7-a961-47e8-bc8c-592e200a41d8 CHICAGO, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fulcrum GT, provider of the leading digital business platform for legal and professional services firms with solutions spanning new business intake, practice management, e-billing and more, announces the latest release of its e-billing tool Salvo with purpose-built APIs and integration capabilities agnostic to practice management or ERP systems, as well as a host of new capabilities. With its quick and easy deployment, Salvo delivers immediate benefits to law firms by producing fewer write-downs/write-offs and reduced manual hours invested in every phase of the billing process, whether it is their first use of an e-billing solution or replacement of another tool. The data captured throughout every matter helps provide greater intelligence to firms for making improved business decisions. As a specialized legal e-billing tool, Salvo helps law firms of all sizes proactively manage the entire process from the initiation of a new matter to invoice submission and tracking to final payment. Salvo offers automatic conversion to LEDES, embedded dashboards for reporting, submission to and real-time status updates across multiple vendor sites. Salvo uses AI and verification engines to align with both the firms rules for billing as well as outside counsel guidelines. Beyond the capabilities of an advanced e-billing solution, Salvo also natively supports the next generation of straight-through e-billing transactions via the RAPIDx digital legal business network, allowing firms and legal ops to seamlessly collaborate throughout the source-to-pay process with speed, ease and efficiency. Salvo is uniquely proactive among legal billing solutions, capturing pertinent data starting at the time a matter is opened to help firms better manage the entire billing process and improve reporting throughout, not just at the time of invoicing. CFOs of global corporations are seeking innovative ways to increase realization and decrease write-downs/write-offs. We frequently talk with them about improving their bottom line by decreasing slippage, manual errors and loss. Our law firm clients of all sizes are seeing the immediate impact of Salvo, which not only produces great outcomes financially for them but also improves their client relationships through better commercial discipline and cleaner billing practices, says Fulcrum GT founder and CEO Ahmed Shaaban. As a modular solution, Salvo is ideal for firms ready to adopt or upgrade their e-billing system, regardless of whether they are seeking a broader platform to manage their overall business today. The new stand-alone version of Salvo offers a quick and easy deployment process, integrating seamlessly with more than 100 different vendor platforms used by corporate legal departments globally. The latest release of Salvo is available as part of Fulcrums Snap platform which empowers clients in the cloud with smart solutions for new business intake, e-billing, matter pricing, management reporting, human capital management and more, as well as being an integral component of the companys RAPIDx solution. RAPIDx facilitates direct collaboration, improves transparency and simplifies transactions between law firms and their clients. Fulcrum will demonstrate the latest version of its Salvo e-billing solution at ILTACON 2024 August 11-15 in Nashville. Attendees wishing to pre-schedule a demo may do so here. About Fulcrum GT Fulcrum GT is the leading provider of secure, reliable business solutions designed for professional services firms, including legal, accounting and consulting firms. The Fulcrum Digital Business Platform simplifies and standardizes business operations to help firms run smoothly, efficiently and effectively. From first interaction through deployment of solutions and then through ongoing day-to-day operations after go-live, the company emphasizes a partnership approach to its client relationships, with solution experts remaining available long term to provide support, advice and assistance. With more than 30 patented products, business processes and qualified Partner Packaged Solutions, Fulcrum GT is SAPs designated preferred partner for law firms and other professional services organizations. For more information visit fulcrumgt.com. Media Contact Vicki LaBrosse, Edge Marketing for Fulcrum GT vlabrosse@edgemarketinginc.com Charleston, SC, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Deep-dive explorations of American infrastructure are a fantastic way to understand the interconnected nature of industries. In a recent book, Power in The Clouds, author Gordon Lloyd Jones unveils the history of a prominent Ohio energy company, helping build appreciation for the complex systems that go into building a community. The Dayton Power and Light Company (or DPL, as its locally known), for years provided electricity through its power plants in the Dayton area, offering an economic boon to the region through the creation of jobs and the development of important infrastructure. Power in The Clouds not only chronicles the history of the company but also gives many firsthand perspectives on the relationships that employees, leaders, and community members had with the organization. Of chief interest to the author are the two plants, J.M. Stuart Station and Killen Station, which together formed the heart of DPLs operation. Although these prosperous bastions of industry eventually fell on hard times and shut down and demolished, their legacy has remained impactful. Today, the two power plant sites are shells of what once remained, industrial ghost towns. Joness book captures the melancholy of their decline, the complexities and evolutions of their relationship to the community over the years, and the positive memories that the author had with the company as a thirty-seven-year employee. It also honors the plants for their unfinished potential, exploring future uses for their locations. Readers will be energized by Power in the Clouds, a book that blends the nostalgia of an America gone by with the inevitability of transformation as new technologies and systems forever alter the landscape of the future. Perfect for those interested in Ohio state history or in industrial technology, this book is an excellent resource for understanding the legacies that local power companies leave behind. Power in The Clouds is available for purchase online at Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com. For more information about the author, please visit any of his social media platforms. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gordonlloydjonesauthor/ Instagram: https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorGordonLloydJones YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorGordonLloydJones Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/gordonjonesauthor About the Author: Gordon Lloyd Jones is the author of the historical biography WWII: The Fighting Faris Family and the spiritual memoirs Divinely Encountered and The Son Also Rises. He is also an Expert Contributor at Maysville Living Magazine. Jones was raised in Maysville, Kentucky (go Bulldogs), attending the University of Kentucky and Morehead State College. He has been an ordained, bi-vocational pastor for over twenty years. After working for thirty-seven years at Dayton Power and Light, he began his teaching career at Maysville Community and Technical College, where he has worked for thirteen years. He is happily married to his wife, Cathy. Joness memoirs are available at BarnesandNoble.com, and all of his books are available on Amazon. Media Contact: Gordon Lloyd Jones Email: the_phantom51@hotmail.com Available for interviews: Author, Gordon Lloyd Jones Attachment TORONTO, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Clear Blue Technologies International Inc. (TSXV: CBLU) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has received significant financial support from its stakeholders to provide financial support to the Company as it continues to invest in its AI leadership in Smart Power for Internet of Things, Smart City and Telecom markets around the world. The financing consists of the following transactions: SOFII (Southern Ontario Fund for Investment in Innovation), a previous supporter of Clear Blue has provided a 7-year loan of $500,000 with interest payable at 14% compounded annually to Clear Blue. Southern Ontario Fund for Investment in Innovation (SOFII). Launched by the Government of Canada in July 2012, SOFII supports high-growth, innovative Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in rural and urban communities. A private placement of convertible debentures, including participation by management, contributed additional cash contribution, with the total sum of the convertible debenture totaling up to $2.2M, of which an initial tranche of $1.46M has been completed. Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), Clear Blues main financing partner, deferred a total of $240,000 of payments due in 2024 to a balloon payment at the end of the loan term, in 2026. Taken combined, the above financings provide cash, deferred payments and additional liquidity totaling $2.9M. During these difficult financial and market times, the support from Clear Blues community of stakeholders shareholders, investment bankers, Government of Canada (SOFII), and BDC is greatly appreciated and Clear Blues customers, employees, suppliers and other stakeholders greatly appreciate the ongoing support, said Miriam Tuerk, CEO of Clear Blue. Clear Blues expanded product line of 4 products has grown our addressable market and our investment in Smart Power management, control and predictive analytics has established us a global leader in providing reliable, mission critical Off-Grid and Hybrid power in the market. Our outlook for revenue growth is strong with an ever-growing sales funnel. This funding allows us to continue to execute on our plan, and grow our revenue and profitability. Additional details on the financing are outlined below: The convertible debenture financing takes the form of a private placement offering (the "Offering") in the aggregate principal amount of up to $2,200,000 of unsecured convertible debentures (each, a "Debenture") at a price of $1,000 per Debenture. In this initial tranche of the Offering, gross proceeds of approximately $1.41M were subscribed for. Additionally, the Company has indications of interest for an incremental amount of $0.79M , expected to be completed in one or more additional tranches to be announced in due course. The Debentures bear interest from the applicable issuance date at 14% per annum until the date that is 36 months following the closing date (the "Maturity Date"). The principal amount of the Debentures will be convertible into units of the Company (the "Units") at the option of the holder at any time prior to the close of business on the last business day immediately preceding the Maturity Date, at a conversion price of $0.10 per Unit (the "Conversion Price"), subject to adjustment in certain events. Each Unit is comprised of: (i) one common share of the Company (each, a "Common Share"); and (ii) one half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will be exercisable to acquire one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.15 per Common Share, subject to adjustment in certain events, until the Maturity Date; provided however, the Company will have the right to accelerate the expiry date of the Warrants to a date which is not less than 21 days after the date on which a written notice is provided to the holders of Warrants if the daily volume weighted average trading price of the Common Shares is greater than $0.25 (subject to adjustment in certain events) for any 10 consecutive trading days on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). Beginning on the date that is one year following the closing date, but subject to receipt of any required approvals, the Company may force the conversion of all of the principal amount of the then outstanding Debentures at the Conversion Price on not less than 21 days' notice should the daily volume weighted average trading price of the Common Shares be greater than $0.25 (subject to adjustment in certain events) for any 10 consecutive trading days on the TSXV. Certain directors and officers of the Company (collectively, the "Insiders") participated in the Offering in the aggregate amount of $319,000, and, as such, the Offering constitutes a related party transaction under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"), but is otherwise exempt from the formal valuation and minority approval requirements of MI 61-101 by virtue Sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 in respect of such Insider participation. No special committee was established in connection with the Offering or the participation of the Insiders, and no materially contrary view or abstention was expressed or made by any director of the Company in relation thereto. Further details will be included in a material change report that will be filed by the Company in connection with the completion of the initial closing of the Offering. Closing of the participation of Insiders in the Offering remains subject to the approval of the TSXV. Fees of $5,740 and 22,400 broker warrants at a price of $0.06 were paid as finders fees for this transaction. The net proceeds received by the Company will be used for working capital purposes. The closing of the Offering is subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions, including the approval of the TSXV. All securities issued under the Offering remain subject to a statutory four month hold period. Lastly, Clear Blue has entered into debt settlement agreements with a consultant of the Company to settle indebtedness of $132,200 in exchange for the issuance of 2,203,333 warrants of the company, convertible to equal number of common shares at a price per share of $0.06, thereby allowing the Company to preserve cash and improve its balance sheet. About Clear Blue Technologies International Clear Blue Technologies International, the Smart Off-Grid company, was founded on a vision of delivering clean, managed, wireless power to meet the global need for reliable, low-cost, solar and hybrid power for lighting, telecom, security, Internet of Things devices, and other mission-critical systems. Today, Clear Blue has thousands of systems under management across 37 countries, including the U.S. and Canada. (TSXV: CBLU) (FRA: 0YA) (OTCQB: CBUTF). About SOFII Community Futures Eastern Ontario (CFEO) and are non-profit organizations delivering the Southern Ontario Fund for Investment in Innovation (SOFII) across Southern Ontario. This program supports scale-up of high-growth, innovative Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in rural and urban communities by offering loans of $150,000 to $500,000 (additional funding available on an exception basis). SOFII provides interest-bearing business loans to help innovation and growth in small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) across the region. About BDC BDC is the only bank devoted exclusively to entrepreneurs. It provides access to financing, both online and in-person, as well as advisory services to help Canadian businesses grow and succeed. Its investment arm, BDC Capital, offers a wide range of risk capital solutions. For 75 years and counting, BDCs purpose has been to support entrepreneurs in all industries and all stages of growth. For more information and to consult more than 1,000 free tools, articles and entrepreneurs stories, visit bdc.ca. For more information, contact: Miriam Tuerk, Co-Founder and CEO +1 416 433 3952 investors@clearbluetechnologies.com www.clearbluetechnologies.com/en/investors Nikhil Thadani, Sophic Capital +1 437 836 9669 Nik@SophicCapital.com Legal Disclaimer Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statement This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" and/or "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only Clear Blues beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of Clear Blue's control. Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "will continue", "will occur" or "will be achieved". The forward-looking information contained herein may include, but is not limited to, information concerning the completion of future tranches of the Offering and the use of proceeds of the Offering. By identifying such information and statements in this manner, Clear Blue is alerting the reader that such information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Clear Blue to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such information and statements. An investment in securities of Clear Blue is speculative and subject to several risks including, without limitation, the risks discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in Clear Blue's listing application dated July 12, 2018. Although Clear Blue has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. In connection with the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release, Clear Blue has made certain assumptions. Although Clear Blue believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations contained in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information and statements. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. All subsequent written and oral forward- looking information and statements attributable to Clear Blue or persons acting on its behalf is expressly qualified in its entirety by this notice. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES Sherritt International Corp. ("Sherritt" or the "Corporation") (TSX:S) is pleased to announce the appointment of Shelley Brown to its Board of Directors effective today. Ms. Brown's appointment and significant experience will provide a seamless succession following the resignation of Anna Ladd-Kruger who is reducing her board commitments in order to take up full time study at the University of British Columbia. "We are delighted to have Shelley join our Board," commented Sir Richard Lapthorne, Chair of Sherritt's Board of Directors. "With her distinguished career, marked by considerable accomplishments and numerous accolades, Shelley will be an invaluable addition to Sherritt's Board." Sir Richard Lapthorne, continued, "In addition, I would like to thank Anna for her contributions to Sherritt and wish her every success in her academic endeavours." Ms. Brown brings considerable experience to Sherritt's Board. As a Senior Audit Partner with Deloitte LLP she worked with a number of the firm's major audit clients including multi-national mining and oil and gas companies listed in both Canada and the U.S. During her time in public practice, she served as the Director for Audit Services in Saskatchewan and also as Regional Managing Partner in Saskatchewan. Ms. Brown has over 30 years of board experience including serving on the boards of Stantec Incorporated and Inter Pipeline Limited. She previously served as the Chair of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants. In 2013, she was appointed as the first Chair of CPA Canada. Ms. Brown is the recipient of numerous awards recognizing her accomplished career including receiving Lifetime Achievement Awards from the CPA Institutes of British Columbia and Saskatchewan and in 2018, she was named as a member of the Order of Canada for her contributions to her profession and her community. About Sherritt International Sherritt is a world leader in using hydrometallurgical processes to mine and refine nickel and cobalt - metals deemed critical for the energy transition. Sherritt's Moa Joint Venture has a current estimated mine life of 25 years and has embarked on an expansion program focused on increasing annual mixed sulphide precipitate production by approximately 20% of contained nickel and cobalt. The Corporation's Power division, through its ownership in Energas S.A., is the largest independent energy producer in Cuba with installed electrical generating capacity of 506 MW, representing approximately 10% of the national electrical generating capacity in Cuba. The Energas facilities are comprised of two combined cycle plants that produce low-cost electricity from one of the lowest carbon emitting sources of power in Cuba. Sherritt's common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "S". View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240805611817/en/ Contact For further information, please contact: Tom Halton Director, Investor Relations and Corporate Affairs Email: investor@sherritt.com Telephone: (416) 935-2451 www.sherritt.com VANCOUVER, Aug. 06, 2024 - HIGHLIGHTS Exploration ramped up across Novo Resource's (Novo or the Company) priority Pilbara targets in Q2 2024, with drilling programs running concurrently at Nunyerry North and the Becher Project (Becher) in the Egina Gold Camp. Drilling at Nunyerry North commenced in May 2024 and was completed in late July 2024 with over 3,200 m reverse circulation (RC) drilling to date. The program tests multiple new targets along strike of known mineralisation and down plunge of existing intercepts. Final assays expected mid- August. Follow-up aircore (AC) and RC drilling programs commenced at Novo's flagship Becher Project by De Grey Mining (De Grey) with two drill rigs. Initial focus for these programs is on testing gold and base metal mineralisation at the priority Heckmair and Lowe Prospects. De Grey plans to undertake a further 28,000 m of combined AC and RC drilling in 2024, adding to the ~10,500 m already completed in Q4 2023. Recent exploration review in the Karratha district has advanced several drill targets, including North Whundo, Railway Bore and East Well. A program of ~3,500 m of RC drilling is planned to test these prospects in late Q3 2024 post completion of heritage surveys. Reconnaissance AC drilling is also planned at Balla Balla in late Q3 2024 post completion of heritage surveys. At the Belltopper Gold Project in Victoria, results were received from the six-hole, 2,529 m, diamond drill program completed in Q1 2024. Significant intercepts included 1 : 5.6 m @ 3.14 g/t Au from 219.8 m and 4.25 m @ 5.88 g/t Au from 274.75 m (including 2 m @ 11.15 g/t Au) and 1.94 m @ 2.37 g/t Au from 230 m in BTD001 on the Leven Star Reef. 2 m @ 15.18 g/t Au from 9 m in BTD004 on a newly discovered reef. 12.26 m @ 1.45 g/t Au from 185 m (including 4.6 m @ 2.64 g/t Au) in BTD005 on the Missing Link Reef. 7 m @ 1.88 g/t Au from 179 m (including 3.19 m @ 3.42 g/t Au) in BTD006 on the Piezzi Reef, a parallel structure to the O'Connors Reef. New gold reefs have been delineated, and extension potential demonstrated on several key historic reefs. A new high-priority north-west trending target corridor was also defined. Hole BTD001 extended mineralisation up to 120 m down-dip on the Leven Star Reef in an emerging high-grade zone and anomalous gold in BTD003 indicates a potential north-east extension to the Leven Star Reef in addition to evidence for a prospective parallel structure (the Butchers Gully Fault). Hole BTD002 intersected the Hanover Reef, and discovered an additional, parallel reef (the Welcome Fault) returning 4.1 m @ 2.37 g/t Au from 36.1 m. BTD002 is the only hole drilled into this developing target corridor. 2 Structural logging has confirmed the geometry and position of major anticline corridors which remain priority targets for structurally controlled high-grade gold events such as those seen at the nearby Fosterville gold mine. Novo continues to focus its efforts on dedicated and disciplined project generation program to focus on identifying value accretive opportunities across targeted precious and base metals assets that complement the current portfolio. Novo is in a strong financial position to continue its exploration focus on Western Australia and Victoria, with no debt and a cash balance of A$11.7 million (C$10.7 million) and investments of approximately A$46.2 million (C$42.1 million) as at 30 June 2024.3 Commenting on the June quarter, Novo Executive Co-Chairman and Acting CEO Mike Spreadborough said, "It has been a busy quarter as we progressed exploration activity across our Pilbara portfolio and analysed results from our Belltopper drill program from earlier in the year." "Results from the Nunyerry North RC drill program will now be assessed prior to finalising targets for diamond drilling and the team will continue to finalise planning for a RC drill program to test three prospects in the Karratha district, with drilling scheduled to start late next quarter." "At the Balla Balla Gold Project, a reconnaissance AC program is also planned for the second half of the year, testing prospectivity adjacent to the Sholl Shear and associated potentially fertile structural corridors undercover." "Excitingly, results from the Belltopper diamond drill program were received and new gold reefs have been delineated with extension potential demonstrated on several key historic reefs. A program of historical core logging and sampling of several deep diamond holes drilled by previous explorers has now been initiated with results from this work expected to be finalised in the first half of Q3 2024." "As always, the team is continuing our aggressive exploration push, with a busy half planned and a strong pipeline of news expected for the remainder of 2024". SUSTAINABILITY There were no significant safety, environment, or community incidents during Q2 2024. Discussions are advanced with Traditional Owners to ensure appropriate heritage protection for planned Nunyerry North, Balla Balla and Karratha District drill programs and for eventual exploration in the Yandeyarra Reserve (part of Novo's Egina Gold Camp). WESTERN AUSTRALIAN GOLD PORTFOLIO Egina Gold Camp The Egina Gold Camp is an 80 km long contiguous tenement package, which hosts Novo's current high priority Pilbara targets (Figure 1) at Nunyerry North and Becher. The tenure is focussed on a series of structurally complex, gold-fertile corridors and is hosted by rocks of the Mallina Basin in the north and mafic / ultramafic sequences further south. This belt is the primary focus for Novo's 2024 Pilbara exploration programs. Figure 1: Novo Pilbara tenure showing main projects and significant prospect. In addition to the Nunyerry North and Egina JV, several other priority gold targets are also being progressed along the main structural corridors within the EGC (Figure 2). These prospects form part of Novo's regional reconnaissance program in 2024. Nunyerry North (70% Novo / 30% Creasy Group) The Nunyerry North prospect lies within Exploration Licence E47/2973 in the southern EGC, located 150 km from Port Hedland. The tenement is subject to a Joint Venture agreement, with Novo holding a 70% interest and the remaining 30% held by Rockford Metals Pty Ltd, an entity of Mark Gareth Creasy (The Creasy Group). Novo completed a maiden RC drilling program of 30 holes for 2,424 m at Nunyerry North in Q4 2023. Figure 2: EGC tenure showing significant Au prospects, location of Nunyerry North, and JV interests. Phase 2 RC drilling commenced at Nunyerry North in late May 2024 following receipt of significant results from the maiden drill program. The current program was completed with a total of 28 RC holes for 3,168 m drilled in June 2024. The program was designed to test multiple new targets along strike of known mineralisation and down plunge of existing intercepts (Figure 3). Final assays are expected in mid-August. Figure 3: Nunyerry project area with interpreted geology, highlighting strike extent of favourable stratigraphy and additional structural targets for further drill testing. Egina Earn-in/JV (De Grey earning a 50% interest) In the northern Egina Gold Camp at the Egina JV area, Novo's partner De Grey commenced drill programs in late May 2024, with two rigs concurrently conducting a proposed approximate 28,000 m combined AC and RC drill program. The RC drill program is focussed initially at Heckmair and has been designed to follow up on encouraging results at Lowe, Heckmair, and Whillans. The AC drill program has commenced at Lowe and aims to provide better geochemical coverage over structural and intrusion targets (Figure 4). At 30 June 2024, a total of 38 RC holes for 4,975 m and 201 AC holes for 16,955 m had been completed. Results are expected in late Q3 2024. Figure 4: Proposed drill programs by JV partner De Grey at the Becher Project in the Egina JV Karratha District Prospects Novo's maiden RC drilling program at the North Whundo, Railway Bore and East Well prospects is scheduled for late Q3 2024. A total of ~3,500 m is planned to test Au and Au-Cu (+/- Pt-Pd) targets defined by a combination of mapping, surface geochemistry and reprocessing/reinterpretation of historic geophysics (IP chargeability and anomalies). Recent exploration in the Karratha district has advanced several drill targets, including North Whundo, Railway Bore and East Well. By way of further detail:4 The primary target North Whundo 5 is defined by a significant 1.2 km long Cu-Pd-Au anomaly, with highly anomalous rock chip results including peak values of 4.1 g/t Au+Pt+Pd and 3.9 % Cu. is defined by a significant 1.2 km long Cu-Pd-Au anomaly, with highly anomalous rock chip results including peak values of 4.1 g/t Au+Pt+Pd and 3.9 % Cu. At Railway Bore 5 , rock chip results include 9.6 g/t Au, 11.9% Cu and 26 g/t Ag from malachite rich breccia in a swarm of felsic intrusion-hosted quartz veins. , rock chip results include 9.6 g/t Au, 11.9% Cu and 26 g/t Ag from malachite rich breccia in a swarm of felsic intrusion-hosted quartz veins. At East Well, a 450 m long copper pXRF soil anomaly > 200 ppm Cu delineates the intersection of a high-grade quartz vein trend and a Au-PGE-Cu breccia trend. Figure 5: Karratha District showing Novo tenure and significant prospects Balla Balla Gold Project Balla Balla is an emerging exploration project centred on the Sholl Shear and associated potentially fertile structural corridors undercover. The Project is considered prospective for intrusion-hosted gold mineralisation, in addition to structurally controlled gold. Geophysical interpretation and research of historical data completed in 2023 advanced the Company's understanding of prospectivity in the project area and further delineated targets for follow-up work in 2024. A reconnaissance AC drill program is currently in planning for H2 2024. Forward Programs - Pilbara Results from the Nunyerry North RC drill program will be assessed prior to finalising targets for diamond drilling. At Becher, in the Egina JV, De Grey AC and RC drilling programs are expected to continue in Q3 2024. Geophysical surveys proposed for Q2 2024, including a high-resolution drone aeromagnetic survey at Becher, and ground gravity over several additional selected areas, have been delayed and are now scheduled for Q3 2024. Novo also plans to conduct a RC drill program to test three prospects in the Karratha district, with programs to be completed at Railway Bore, East Well, and North Whundo. Drilling is scheduled to start in late Q3 2024 and will total ~3,500 m to test Au and Au-Cu(+/- Pt-Pd) targets defined by a combination of mapping, surface geochemistry and historic geophysics (IP chargeability anomalies). At the Balla Balla Gold Project, a reconnaissance AC drill program is also planned for H2 2024, testing prospectivity adjacent to the Sholl Shear and associated potentially fertile structural corridors undercover. The Project is considered prospective for intrusion-hosted gold mineralisation, in addition to structurally controlled gold. Geophysical interpretation and research of historical data completed in 2023 advanced the Company's understanding of prospectivity in the project area and further delineated priority targets. BELLTOPPER GOLD PROJECT, VICTORIA In Victoria, final gold and multi-element assay results have been received from the diamond drilling at the Belltopper Gold Project (Figure 6) completed late Q1 2024. Summary metrics for the program are 6 holes for 2,529 m. The program was designed to test multiple high-priority targets, including structural and intrusion hosted/related gold targets, high-amplitude IP chargeability anomalies and favourable structural positions within key anticline corridors, and a developing high-grade zone at the Leven Star Reef. A program of historical core logging and sampling of several deep diamond holes drilled by previous explorers has also been initiated. Results from this work are expected to be finalised in the first half of Q3 2024. Figure 6: Belltopper Gold Project location map with focus area for the diamond drilling program. A series of significant results were returned from the drill program contributing to the understanding of the tenor and position of key historic reefs. A new high-priority north-west trending target corridor was also defined. Key results from the drill program included6: 5.6 m @ 3.14 g/t Au from 219.8 m and 4.25 m @ 5.88 g/t Au from 274.75 m (including 2 m @ 11.15 g/t Au) and 1.94 m @ 2.37 g/t Au from 230 m in BTD001 on the Leven Star Reef. 2 m @ 15.18 g/t Au from 9 m in BTD004 on a newly discovered reef. 12.26 m @ 1.45 g/t Au from 185 m (including 4.6 m @ 2.64 g/t Au) in BTD005 on the Missing Link Reef. 7 m @ 1.88 g/t Au from 179 m (including 3.19 m @ 3.42 g/t Au) in BTD006 on the Piezzi Reef, a parallel structure to the O'Connor's Reef. The mineralisation presented in the body of this release is not necessarily representative of mineralisation throughout the Belltopper Gold Project. Intercepts are expressed as down-hole intersections and should not be presumed to represent true widths, which vary from hole to hole and between reefs. Significant gold results span a range of mineralisation styles; including oblique to stratigraphy high-grade shear or fault related mineralisation analogous to that at Costerfield or Stawell mines; layer-parallel laminated gold-bearing quartz, quartz breccia, and west-dipping mineralised faults analogous to high-grade Victorian deposits such as at Fosterville mine; and broad, low-grade mineralisation associated with the anticline saddle reef-style that has contributed so significantly to the historical gold endowment of the nearby Bendigo and Castlemaine goldfields. The recent drilling continues momentum garnered from current exploration efforts and the 2021 - 2022 diamond drilling program which discovered and delineated a gold-bearing felsic porphyry with clear IRG characteristics (confirming a new but hypothesised mineralisation style in the region); in addition to highlighting several underexplored, kilometre-scale, high-grade gold reefs with emerging shoot potential, that have in many cases only been tested by a handful of scout or reconnaissance holes at best. Key learnings from the program include: Hole BTD001 extended mineralisation up to 120 m down-dip on the Leven Star Reef in an emerging high-grade zone, and in addition anomalous gold in BTD003 indicates a potential north-east extension to the Leven Star Reef in addition to evidence for a prospective parallel structure (the Butchers Gully Fault). Hole BTD002 5 intersected the Hanover Reef, and discovered an additional, parallel reef (the Welcome Fault) returning 4.1 m @ 2.37 g/t Au from 36.1 m. BTD002 is the only hole drilled into this developing target corridor. 7 intersected the Hanover Reef, and discovered an additional, parallel reef (the Welcome Fault) returning 4.1 m @ 2.37 g/t Au from 36.1 m. BTD002 is the only hole drilled into this developing target corridor. Structural logging has confirmed the geometry and position of major anticline corridors which remain priority targets for structurally controlled high-grade gold events such as those seen at the nearby Fosterville gold mine. Figure 7: Oblique view of IP lines showing chargeability anomalies and key reefs tested as part of current program. Figure 8: Collar location map (LIDAR) and drill azimuth for the six recently completed diamond drill hole at Belltopper. Key structural elements and target mineralised reefs (red lines) also delineated. Forward Programs - Victoria Work during Q3 2024 will focus on reviewing assay and logging data of key historic drill holes from the developing target corridors at Belltopper, and then focus on updating the 3D Geological Model and integrating newly derived data from relogging. An expanded spectral logging program on pulps from key historic and recent drill hole samples has also commenced. In conjunction with detailed multi-element data for the corresponding pulps, this will provide another critical layer to be integrated into the targeting model to help vector into the most prospective areas for high-grade mineralisation. BATTERY METALS JOINT VENTURES Harding Battery Metals Joint Venture (HBMJV) In December 2023, Novo entered into a tenement sale agreement, joint venture agreement, and coordination agreement with SQM Australia Pty Ltd (SQM), a wholly owned subsidiary of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A., in relation to five of Novo's prospective lithium and nickel exploration tenements (Priority Tenements) in the West Pilbara. SQM has paid Novo A$10 million (C$8.84 million) for a 75% interest in the Priority Tenements and for an option over additional Pilbara exploration tenements, with Novo retaining a 25% interest, along with 100% ownership of the gold, silver, PGE, copper, lead and zinc mineral rights. Figure 9: Location of Priority Tenement adjacent to Azure Minerals' (ASX: AZS) Andover Lithium - Nickel Project. Quartz Hill Joint Venture The Quartz Hill Joint Venture is an 80% / 20% unincorporated joint venture between Liatam Mining Pty. Ltd. (Liatam) and Novo relating to battery minerals. This joint venture was formalised on 20 December 2023, when Liatam exceeded the required earn-in expenditure amount. Liatam is the owner of the included tenements and manager of the joint venture. The Quartz Hill Joint Venture comprises five granted Exploration Licences and eighteen Prospecting Licences, covering approximately 702 sq km (Figure 10). Field based exploration to date confirms the area is highly prospective for LCT-style (lithium-caesium-tantalum) pegmatite hosted lithium mineralisation. Exploration by Liatam has extended known lithium mineralisation at the Lepidolite Fields LCT pegmatite swarm target with best results from surface sampling8: 2.71% Li2O, and 828 ppm Cs2O 2.37% Li2O, 303 ppm Ta2O5 and 883 ppm Cs2O 2.14% Li2O, 615 ppm Ta2O5 and 1,195 ppm Cs2O 1.98% Li2O, 277 ppm Ta2O5 and 882 ppm Cs2O 1.64% Li2O, 651 ppm Ta2O5 and 2,390 ppm Cs2O 1.24% Li2O, 722 ppm Ta2O5 and 1,722 ppm Cs2O Approximately 9,000 m RC drilling is planned to test the ~ 6 km long and 0.8 km wide Lepidolite Fields LCT pegmatite swarm in H2 2024. Figure 10: Lepidolite Fields and Quartz Hill West exploration areas identified through mapping and surface sampling. A second LCT pegmatite swarm was identified at Quartz Hill West and The Gap with best surface results of9: 2.45% Li2O and 589 ppm Cs2O 2.23% Li2O, and 1,290 ppm Cs2O 1.22% Li2O, 181 ppm Ta2O5 and 780 ppm Cs2O A large regional, soil sampling program is also planned in H2 2024 to assist in identifying buried pegmatite swarms in three areas of no or poor outcrop at Cajuput Creek, Quartz Hill West / Lepidolite Fields and East Regional. CORPORATE Relinquishment of Tenure The Company's exploration programs across key Pilbara areas continue to be successful in identifying priority targets for exploration follow-up drilling along with identifying tenure that provides little further exploration value or follow-up. As a result, tenure of no value to Novo's strategy, continues to be relinquished to reduce land tenure holding costs. The Company currently has an estimated ~6,700 sq km and reduced annual holding costs. Financial Update As at 30 June 2024, Novo had a cash balance of A$11.7 million (C$10.7 million). In addition, Novo has an investment portfolio of shares held in ASX-listed and unlisted companies that is valued at approximately A$46.2 million (C$42.1 million), consisting of: (1) ASX-listed companies, valued at approximately A$1 million (C$0.9 million) based on the closing price of those shares on 30 June 2024; and (2) Unlisted companies, valued at approximately A$45.2 million (C$41.2 million). Ticker Number of shares held Novo's interest Value A$'000 Value C$'000 (1) ASX-listed shares* Kalamazoo Resources Ltd. ASX: KZR 10,000,000 5.72% $830 $758 GBM Resources Limited ASX: GBZ 11,363,637 1.00% $114 $104 Calidus Resources Ltd.** ASX: CAI 1,347,089 0.18% - - Kali Metals Ltd. (commenced trading January 8, 2024) ASX: KM1 566,947 0.39% $133 $122 (2) Unlisted shares*** Elementum 3D Inc. (E3D) Unlisted (US$) 2,076,560 8.84% $21,228 $19,383 San Cristobel Mining Inc. (SCM) Unlisted (US$) 2,000,000 4.32% $23,983 $21,899 *ASX-listed shares were converted to C$ using an exchange rate of C$ to A$ of 1 : 1.0952 ** Calidus Resources Limited went into voluntary administration on 28 June 2024, based on this management deemed it reasonable to impair the share value down to zero. The impairment was A$150k. ***The valuation of the unlisted shares held in E3D is in line with management's valuation as at 30 June 2024, converted using an exchange rate as at 30 June 2024 from US$ to C$ of 1 : 1.3687 and C$ to A$ of 1 : 1.0952. The valuation of the unlisted shares held in SCM is in line with management's valuation as at 30 June 2024 based on a private placement that commenced in March 2024, and closed in April 2024, converted using an exchange rate as at 31 March 2024 from US$ to C$ of 1 : 1.3687 and C$ to A$ of 1 : 1.0952. Shares held in Elementum 3D and San Cristobal Mining are initially recognised at fair value (and remeasured with reference to share prices at which funds are raised from third-party investors) or were based on independent valuations performed. For further information on Novo's investment portfolio, please refer to Novo's website. Project Generation Novo continues to focus its efforts on a dedicated and disciplined project generation and consolidation program to identify value accretive opportunities across targeted precious and base metals assets that complement the Company's current portfolio. Comet Well and Purdy's North Novo's board of directors has resolved to seek interest from parties who have an interest in owning or being part of a joint venture on the Comet Well and Purdy's North project. As part of this decision, a sale process for Mechanical Ore Sorting is underway. Strategic Update Following the announcement on 29 February 2024 regarding the start of a recruitment process to identify and secure a qualified and experienced chief executive officer (CEO), with Mr Mike Spreadborough's (current Executive Co-Chairman and acting CEO) move to the role of Non-Executive Chairman, the board has decided to suspend that process. This is in light of the experience and knowledge Mr Mike Spreadborough brings to the position and ensures continuity as the Company continues its focus on project generation activities. CONTACT Investors: Mike Spreadborough +61 8 6400 6100 info@novoresources.com North American Queries: Leo Karabelas +1 416 543 3120 leo@novoresources.com Media: Cameron Gilenko +61 466 984 953 cgilenko@citadelmagnus.com Authorised for release by Board of Directors. QP STATEMENT Ms De Luca (MAIG), is the qualified person, as defined under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, responsible for, and having reviewed and approved, the technical information contained in this news release. Ms De Luca is Novo's General Manager Exploration. JORC COMPLIANCE STATEMENTS The information in this news release that relates to Exploration Results at the Karratha District Prospects (North Whundo, Railway Bore and East Well) is extracted from Novo's announcement titled Follow-up Drilling to commence at Nunyerry North and New Targets Defined Near Karratha dated 1 May 2024 (and released to ASX on 2 May 2024), which is available to view at www.asx.com.au. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information in the original market announcement and that the form and context in which the Competent Person's findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcement. The information in this news release that relates to Exploration Results at Beltopper is extracted from Novo's announcement titled Significant Results from Diamond Drilling at Beltopper, Victoria dated 4 June 2024 (and released to ASX on 5 June 2024), which is available to view at www.asx.com.au. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information in the original market announcement and that the form and context in which the Competent Person's findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcement. The information in this news release that relates to Exploration Results at Quartz Hill is extracted from Novo's announcement titled Lithium Exploration Update 2024 Quartz Hill Joint Venture dated 29 May 2024 (and released to ASX on 30 May 2024), which is available to view at www.asx.com.au. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information in the original market announcement and that the form and context in which the Competent Person's findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcement. DISCLAIMER This Business Review constitutes a voluntary disclosure by the Company and is not a Quarterly Activities Report for the purposes of ASX Listing Rules 5.3 and 5.5 for which Novo has an exemption, as a foreign entity with its primary listing on an overseas exchange with a particular obligation imposed by the home exchange that is comparable to the ASX Listing Rule obligation. FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION Some statements in this news release contain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, planned exploration and the expected timing of receipt of assay results. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. Such factors include, without limitation, customary risks of the resource industry and the risk factors identified in Novo's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023, which is available under Novo's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and in the Company's prospectus dated 2 August 2023 which is available at www.asx.com.au. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date those statements are made. Except as required by applicable law, Novo assumes no obligation to update or to publicly announce the results of any change to any forward-looking statement contained or incorporated by reference herein to reflect actual results, future events or developments, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting the forward-looking statements. If Novo updates any forward-looking statement(s), no inference should be drawn that the Company will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. ABOUT NOVO Novo is an Australian based gold explorer listed on the ASX and the TSX focused on discovering standalone gold projects with > 1 Moz development potential. Novo is an innovative gold explorer with a significant land package covering approximately 6,700 square kilometres in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, along with the 22 square kilometre Belltopper project in the Bendigo Tectonic Zone of Victoria, Australia. Novo's key project area is the Egina Gold Camp, where De Grey Mining (ASX: DEG) is farming-in to form a JV at the Becher Project and surrounding tenements through exploration expenditure of A$25 million within 4 years for a 50% interest. The Becher Project has similar geological characteristics as De Grey's 12.7 Moz Hemi Project.10 Novo is also advancing gold exploration at Nunyerry North, part of the Croyden JV (Novo 70%: Creasy Group 30%), where 2023 exploration drilling identified significant gold mineralisation. Novo continues to undertake early-stage exploration across its Pilbara tenement portfolio. Novo has also formed lithium joint ventures with both Liatam and SQM in the Pilbara which provides shareholder exposure to battery metals. Novo has a significant investment portfolio and a disciplined program in place to identify value accretive opportunities that will build further value for shareholders. Please refer to Novo's website for further information including the latest Corporate Presentation. __________________________________ 1 Refer to Novo's news release dated 4 June 2024 - Significant Results from Diamond Drilling at Belltopper, Victoria for full results (released to ASX on 5 June 2024). 2 See Footnote 1 above. 3 See "Financial Update" below for additional detail. 4 Refer also to news release dated 1 May 2024 - Follow-Up Drilling to Commence at Nunyerry North and New Targets Defined Near Karratha (released to ASX on 2 May 2024). 5 Refer also to news release dated 1 May 2024 - Follow-Up Drilling to Commence at Nunyerry North and New Targets Defined Near Karratha (released to ASX on 2 May 2024). 6 Refer to news release dated 4 June 2024 - Significant Results from Diamond Drilling at Belltopper, Victoria (released to ASX on 5 June 2024). 7 See Footnote 5 above. 8 Refer to news release dated 29 May 2024 - Lithium Exploration Update 2024 Quartz Hill Joint Venture (released to ASX on 30 May 2024). 9 See Footnote 7 above. 10 Refer to De Grey's ASX Announcement, Hemi Gold Project Resource Update, dated 21 November 2023. No assurance can be given that a similar (or any) commercially viable mineral deposit will be determined at Novo's Becher Project. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3ebdc867-ed31-45b1-853d-5f49d446b6d0 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4e8af12d-87f3-4a42-9df5-daf520ba3ab2 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7c5e9155-4922-4ca8-8fc8-be17ec78e810 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d3a02bba-0d77-4ad0-86a1-8692c56bd7c8 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/31741b61-f39c-4cbc-a065-f1fb998bca42 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/873cbe43-8407-4bb9-aaba-09c7f61cfc46 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7ef8b705-3ef5-498f-8234-f970d1011090 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e975d1db-4991-489e-8fc5-01151c1ca9f4 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/51429108-6783-4191-b391-ab9ffa121f71 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d97f5027-5a96-405e-a8a9-161ec8b0e46d The Fourth Lausanne World Evangelization Congress, also known as the 2024 Seoul Congress, will take place from September 22 to 28, 2024, in Seoul, Korea. This global gathering aims to accelerate collaborative action to fulfill Jesus' Great Commission, making disciples of all nations. Challenges Faced Despite Jesus' command in Matthew 28:19-20 to "go and make disciples of all nations," the proportion of Christians in the global population has remained relatively stable over the past 100 years, hovering around 30%. Many people still have not heard the gospel and lack Christian witnesses. Some areas and communities are without churches that can make disciples. Furthermore, many churches and workplace ministries need Christ-like leaders to meet contemporary needs, and society at large urgently needs the influence of God's kingdom. Congress Objectives The Lausanne Movement strives to promote global mission with the following goals in every area of human activity, including family, workplace, local communities, and society as a whole: Everyone hearing the gospel; Every church and sector having Christ-like leaders; Every people group and region having disciple-making churches; Every societal sphere influenced by the kingdom of God. Ongoing Listening and Action To this end, the Lausanne Movement leadership decided four years ago to convene the Fourth Global Congress and initiate a multi-year process leading up to and continuing beyond the Congress. Over the past three years, the Lausanne Movement has conducted a global listening call, inviting diverse groups to answer five key questions to identify major gaps and opportunities in the process of fulfilling the Great Commission. A team of over 100 researchers worldwide is preparing the "State of the Great Commission Report," which will be released before the Congress to help participants understand the current state and future trends of global mission. Gathering and Collaboration The 2024 Seoul Congress will be the culmination of this multi-year listening process and will serve as a catalyst for collaborative action. The Congress will bring together 5,000 in-person attendees and 5,000 online participants, making it a once-in-a-generation gathering of mission influencers from most countries around the world. Participants will include both younger and older generations, representing various sectors, including workplace, church, and mission-related professions. During the Congress, attendees will witness how God is working globally through plenary sessions, table group interactions, and various breakout sessions. They will collaborate to address the most urgent needs and strategic opportunities. Lausanne leaders expect this gathering to inspire new ideas, forge new partnerships, and launch new collaborative action teams. Message to the Global Church: Learning, Sharing Resources, Proclaiming, and Displaying Christ Together "The apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12 that the body of Christ is made up of many parts, each needing the others. Through such a global gathering, the body of Christ can learn from each other, share resources, and together proclaim and display Christ." The 2024 Seoul Congress will be a significant opportunity for the global church to proclaim Christ and display His glory. The global church is invited to participate in this journey of Lausanne 4, accelerating the fulfillment of Jesus' Great Commission together. Background Information on the Lausanne Congress The Lausanne World Evangelization Congress is a global Christian conference aimed at promoting world mission and global gospel proclamation. Here is some background information on the Lausanne Congress: Origins and History First Lausanne Congress (1974): Held in Lausanne, Switzerland, initiated by Christian leaders such as Billy Graham and John Stott. The Congress produced the Lausanne Covenant, a declaration on evangelical mission emphasizing the common mission of global Christians. Second Lausanne Congress (1989): Held in Manila, Philippines, building on the themes of the first Congress, and issued the Manila Manifesto, stressing the importance of world mission. Third Lausanne Congress (2010): Held in Cape Town, South Africa, attracting over 4,000 delegates from more than 200 countries. The Congress issued the Cape Town Commitment, calling for greater cooperation and unity in evangelical mission. Impact and Significance The Lausanne Congress is considered one of the most important Christian conferences of the 20th and 21st centuries, having a profound impact on global evangelical mission. Through the Congress, Christian leaders share experiences, build connections, and jointly explore how to better fulfill Jesus' Great Commission. This information is edited from the official website of the Fourth Lausanne World Evangelization Congress (also known as the 2024 Seoul Congress). Click here to access. Harvest Ministries hosted the second Jesus Revolution Baptism event at Pirate's Cove Beach in California last Saturday (Aug 3rd), where around 2,000 people were baptized. The event was supported by 70 pastors and church leaders who attended. Evangelist Greg Laurie mentioned that the 2023 movie Jesus Revolution evoked memories of the religious revival of the 1970s, inspiring many people to be baptized at Pirate's Cove Beach. He noted, "That's why we call each event the 'Jesus Revolution Baptism.' Clearly, the scenes from the movie have inspired many to seek baptism at the same location." The movie was inspired by Laurie's 2018 book of the same name, in which he shared his experiences during the revival. Laurie recalled that Pirate's Cove Beach was where he first felt the Holy Spirit calling him to "preach the gospel." He said, "I found myself standing on the rocks, preaching to the people around me. This scene is deeply etched in my memory." According to Harvest Ministries, the 2024 Harvest Crusade event was held on July 20 at the Los Angeles Angels' stadium, filling it to capacity, with over 5,000 people expressing their acceptance of Jesus Christ. Over the past year, Harvest Ministries has recorded at least 12,000 people choosing to believe in Christ. Those baptized at Pirate's Cove Beach received a New Believer's Bible and were invited to join local churches. They also received an electronic study guide of the Gospel of John from Harvest Ministries and were invited to join Harvest's online discipleship group. This initiative offers free online courses, group activities, and other resources to help new believers grow in their faith. In July 2023, around 4,500 people were baptized at Harvest Ministries' "Jesus Revolution Pirate's Cove Beach Baptism" event, including Laurie's granddaughter, Stella, who publicly expressed her faith. Over the past 12 months, more than 6,500 baptisms have taken place at Pirate's Cove Beach. Laurie believes this phenomenon may signal God's impending greater works. Laurie remarked, "Seeing so many lives transformed and committed to Christ is truly moving. The spiritual revival sparked by the Jesus Revolution continues to draw people closer to God. Today, Pirate's Cove has become a center of revival and hope, and we are honored to be part of this ongoing faith journey." Samsung has rolled out its Galaxy AI feature suite to its high-end smartphone lines, and now it's apparently getting ready for the next logical step: bringing Galaxy AI to its mid-rangers. According to a new report today, the Galaxy A55 and A35 will unsurprisingly be the first ones to receive Galaxy AI, as part of their One UI 6.1.1 update. The report doesn't tell us exactly when we should expect this to happen, but provides a vague timeline of "this month or the next". A word of caution, however: not every Galaxy AI feature will be made available on these mid-rangers. And unfortunately there currently is no more information on which features will make the cut and which won't. The most likely scenario is that Samsung will leave out those which need the most amount of processing power, since the A55 and A35 don't have a lot of that. It's also unclear whether the A55 and A35 will be the only A-series devices to get Galaxy AI, or just the first ones. Samsung may want to limit the release of the suite to its newest handsets in order to try and drive some more sales. Source Google illegally monopolized the search engine market, ruled Judge Amit P. Mehta of the US District Court for the District of Columbia. According to a 286-page ruling, the company paid $26 billion to smartphone and web browser owners to make its search engine the default option, preventing competitors from gaining a foothold in the market. Mehta also ruled that Google does not have a monopoly in the market for search engine advertising, noting that Amazon and Walmart have begun offering advertising related to searches on their own websites. However, Google does have a monopoly over search text ads, which appear at the top of the results page. This is the first time a US District Court has found a tech company guilty in over two decades. The judge has yet to announce what changes it will seek, but we might see Google offering Android users in the US the option to pick a search engine when setting up a new device. Other decisions might include separating the search business from Alphabet's other products, like Android or Chrome; if that is ordered, we might see the biggest forced breakup of a US company since AT&T was dismantled in 1984 and ordered to sell some of its business to smaller independent regional phone companies. The full report revealed that Google systematically paid Samsung and Apple to use its search engine, which drove the company's value to the sky and brought in more than $300 billion in revenue, largely generated by ads within the search engine. This also affected the market share, as Google held 80% in 2009 but grew to 90% in 2020. Google said it will appeal the decision, arguing that its success is based on people preferring its "superior products." Via Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 (CNBC) OpenAI co-founder John Schulman said in a Monday X post that he would leave the Microsoft-backed company and join Anthropic, an artificial intelligence startup with funding from Amazon. The move comes less than three months after OpenAI disbanded a superalignment team that focused on trying to ensure that people can control AI systems that exceed human capability at many tasks. To read this article: So-called super apps, which combine all kinds of services in one app, have not been a big issue in Europe and the USA so far. In China, however, they are the norm. Users there spend a lot of time on WeChat, known as Weixin in China, to organize half their lives - although the main purpose of the app was originally to send text messages. ByteDance, operator of TikTok, also wants to develop Douyin, as TikTok is known in its home country, into a super app. Both providers, Weixin parent Tencent and Douyin owner ByteDance, are now increasingly in conflict with iPhone manufacturer Apple. The issue at stake is App Store commissions, which may not be paid via the super apps. Anzeige Apple makes demands Apple's rules here are actually simple: the company wants 15 or 30 percent of the revenue from app sales, in-app payments and subscriptions, depending on the size of revenue, as long as it is digital content. However, this has not yet been the case for the hugely popular mini-apps and mini-games, which have many millions of users on Weixin and Douyin. Apple apparently no longer wants to put up with this, according to a Bloomberg report: the "loophole" is now to be closed. Apple has entered into negotiations with Tencent and ByteDance in the world's largest smartphone market. The threat: future updates from Weixin or Douyin could no longer be released if the platforms continue to allow payments in mini-apps that run in their programs without Apple being involved. Apple also wants Tencent to deactivate an in-game messaging feature that could redirect users to other platforms. Huawei also wants money Apple's first announcements date back to May, Tencent is said to have not yet responded. Apple has taken similar action against ByteDance. There, too, the threat is to no longer allow updates from Douyin if payment backdoors are not closed. The iPhone manufacturer is under pressure in the Chinese market. Apple recently suffered a further drop in sales in the second or third-largest market, depending on how you count it. In-app payments, which are big business, could help Apple to find a balance here. Meanwhile, it is not only Apple that is putting the thumbscrews on app providers, but also domestic providers such as Huawei. They would also like to be involved in the future as part of their "Harmony" ecosystem. However, the telecommunications giant does not yet dare to approach Tencent, Weixin explicitly states. Neither Tencent nor ByteDance commented on the conflict with Apple. The iPhone manufacturer only stated that it has guidelines for digital goods and that Apple's app review team also rejects apps that violate these guidelines. Anzeige Empfohlener redaktioneller Inhalt Mit Ihrer Zustimmmung wird hier ein externer Preisvergleich (heise Preisvergleich) geladen. Preisvergleiche immer laden Preisvergleich jetzt laden (bsc) Jyri Lavikainen , a researcher at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, said to Helsingin Sanomat on Thursday that Russia is evidently seeking to depict Finland as an enemy for its political purposes, with the ruling a part of information warfare that seeks to demonise its adversaries. THE SUPREME COURT of the Republic of Karelia in Russia ruled on Thursday that Finland committed genocide in the region during the Second Soviet-Finnish War in 19411944. Finland has long had a fairly good reputation in Russia. Now Russia is trying to wreck that reputation, he added. Also Ukraine has been systematically portrayed as an enemy by the Kremlin, reminded Lavikainen. The Kremlin later cited this image as justification for its unprovoked full-scale invasion on 24 February 2022. There wasnt necessarily any plan that 10 years from now well invade and before that well target Ukraine with propaganda for 10 years. But in practice thats what happened, he commented. The one thing you can say is that we can be glad that were a Nato member in this situation. Information warfare tactics can therefore have concrete political ramifications, according to Lavikainen. The Kremlin, he analysed, is seeking to re-interpret history to push the public sentiment in an anti-western direction by leveraging the national myth that it has fabricated around World War II. Such tactics are also a tool to steer public attention away from the war crimes Russia has committed in Ukraine. Finland is demonised similarly to many other adversaries. Russia sent Germany a note last spring demanding that Germany recognise the siege of Leningrad as genocide committed against the people of the Soviet Union. If Finland received a similar demand, Lavikainen said he expects the response to be that the issue was settled in the peace treaty signed in Paris in 1947. Finland paid reparations to the Soviet Union specifically to compensate for the damage caused by the occupation of eastern Karelia, he reminded. If Soviet Union had regarded Finlands actions as genocide, it couldve investigated the matter then. If you think about in the long term, what you want to do with [these tactics] is to prepare the soil for accepting the use of military force, said Lavikainen. First and foremost I see this more as a means of information warfare than something thatd have some kind of major influence on foreign policy, he added to Helsingin Sanomat. Aleksi Teivainen HT Announcements are part of Secretary Becerra's Initiative on Protecting Farmworkers from Extreme Heat and Wildfire Smoke Today, Secretary Becerra observed Farmworker Appreciation Day by participating in a charla - a conversation - about extreme heat with farmworkers organized by Lideres Campesinas. The Secretary also announced several new actions to support farmworkers. The Biden-Harris Administration has made the well-being of workers a priority. Climate change continues to pose serious health risks for farmworkers and other outdoor laborers. Extreme heat and poor air quality can make working outdoors especially dangerous, said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. Nobody should die because of exposure to extreme heat. Thats why the Biden-Harris Administration is working across the nation to mitigate the health effects of climate change. As temperatures continue to increase, so will our commitment to the safety of those who work to ensure we have food on our tables. On March 7, 2024, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra launched the Initiative on Protecting Farmworkers from Extreme Heat and Wildfire Smoke to address the growing threat of heat and smoke for farmworkers. Today, the Secretary announced some of the initial results of the initiative. Some of the HHS Actions announced today include: Improving Access to Health Hazard Evaluations : The -National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will investigate workplace health hazards for free when requested by an employer, union, or three or more employees. NIOSH and the HHS Office of Minority Health have made the Health Hazard Evaluation request form available in Mixteco, Arabic, Chinese, Vietnamese, Tagalog, and Haitian Creole as well as English and Spanish. NIOSH is also conducting outreach to farmworker-serving organizations and working with its Centers for Agricultural Safety and Health to raise awareness of the Health Hazard Evaluation program. The twelve Centers for Agricultural Safety and Health are funded by NIOSH to conduct research and outreach to protect farmworkers from occupational injuries and illnesses. The Centers have released a series of heat-related videos and are conducting research and developing tools to prevent heat and wildfire smoke exposure. : The -National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will investigate workplace health hazards for free when requested by an employer, union, or three or more employees. NIOSH and the HHS Office of Minority Health have made the Health Hazard Evaluation request form available in Mixteco, Arabic, Chinese, Vietnamese, Tagalog, and Haitian Creole as well as English and Spanish. NIOSH is also conducting outreach to farmworker-serving organizations and working with its Centers for Agricultural Safety and Health to raise awareness of the Health Hazard Evaluation program. The twelve Centers for Agricultural Safety and Health are funded by NIOSH to conduct research and outreach to protect farmworkers from occupational injuries and illnesses. The Centers have released a series of heat-related videos and are conducting research and developing tools to prevent heat and wildfire smoke exposure. Evidence-Based Recommendations to Better Protect Workers : NIOSH is also developing a hazard review document that summarizes the scientific literature on the health effects from exposures to wildland fire smoke and provides recommendations to protect outdoor workers. This document is expected to be released fall of 2024 and will serve as the basis for future recommendations. NIOSHs existing Criteria for a Recommended Standard on Occupational Exposure to Heat and Hot Environments informed the Department of Labors recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings. : NIOSH is also developing a hazard review document that summarizes the scientific literature on the health effects from exposures to wildland fire smoke and provides recommendations to protect outdoor workers. This document is expected to be released fall of 2024 and will serve as the basis for future recommendations. NIOSHs existing Criteria for a Recommended Standard on Occupational Exposure to Heat and Hot Environments informed the Department of Labors recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings. Funding Opportunity for New Care Sites: The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has opened a New Access Points funding opportunity to support new health center service delivery sites to expand affordable, accessible, and high-quality primary health care for underserved communities and populations. HRSA has promoted this funding opportunity with resources and technical assistance in Spanish, including FAQ sessions with live Spanish interpretation, and an FAQs webpage. The actions complement work from across the Administration to protect outdoor workers, including the Department of Labors recent regulation for Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings. This proposed rule is a significant step toward a federal heat standard to protect workers made possible by research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This Farmworker Appreciation Day comes as farmworkers contend with extreme heat, wildfire smoke, and other hazards, to bring Americans and people around the world the food we rely on to keep our families healthy. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has committed to using all available tools to protect their health and well-being. Read the full HHS Farmworker Appreciation Day Factsheet for more information on the Secretarys Initiative and these key actions. Press release available in: English | Espanol (Spanish) | Mixtec. by SHARON MWENDE Tuesday August 6, 2024 Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi. Image: FILE The State Department of Diaspora Affairs has urged Kenyans in Lebanon to urgently register for evacuation as fears of war mount. Several countries have urged their nationals to leave Lebanon, as fears grow of a wider conflict in the Middle East. It is feared that Lebanon-based Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group, could play a heavy role in any such retaliation, which in turn could spark a serious Israeli response in Lebanon.Hezbollah launched dozens of rockets at the town of Beit Hillel in northern Israel at around 00:25 local time on Sunday (22:25 BST Saturday).His assassination came hours after Israel killed Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut.In a statement released on Tuesday, the department released a link and emergency contacts to facilitate the registration process."Urgently register with us through this link: https://tinyurl.com/2m9nw4ww or call +96590906719/+96171175006/+254114757002 for evacuation purposes," the department said.It also appealed to those who can move to safer areas within Lebanon and those able to leave the country, to do so.The State Department directed Kenyans with family members in Lebanon, to call the +254114757002 number provided for ease of safety coordination.They can also visit the department's offices at the Old Mutual Building, Ground floor along Upper Hill Road."We are also requesting Kenyans in the Diaspora to help convey this information to as many people as possible especially our brothers and sisters in Lebanon," it added.For further updates and assistance, the department urged Kenyans to stay tuned to its social media pages for updates on the same/The State Department for Diaspora Affairs assured Kenyans in the Diaspora that their safety is its top priority. The indiscriminate functioning of stone quarries in geologically vulnerable areas of Kerala is a primary anthropogenic reason, which can trigger landslides like the ones in the hill district of Wayanad last week. The landslides in Wayanad have killed over 350 people and rendered 6,759 people homeless. The landslides at Chooralmala and Mundakkai occurred at a time when the local Meppadi grama panchayat was actively considering permission for two new quarries in highly vulnerable areas close to affected hill villages. Public protests have been held against the Meppadi panchayat authorities for disregarding complaints against functioning quarries at Nellimunda and Valathoor, which are also located on the same vulnerable mountain slopes forming part of the biodiversity-rich Western Ghats. Recent study reports have confirmed that the state has 5924 functioning stone quarries, but only 529 have obtained mandatory permission from the state's mining and geology department. According to existing rules, quarries operating without the department's permission are illegal. A study by scientists at the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) revealed that between 1983 and 2015, the state experienced 115 large-scale landslides, with 78 occurring in areas with stone quarries operating within a one-kilometre radius. The process of creating quarries typically involves removing the soil's top layer, which negatively impacts its capacity to absorb water naturally and may result in mudslides and landslides. Despite a recommendation from the state assembly's panel on environmental affairs to develop a comprehensive mining policy that strictly adheres to guidelines from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Supreme Court, the state government has yet to act on the suggestions. The panel has suggested replacing the current practice of granting quarry operation licences to individuals with stricter government oversight. Now, after the latest instances of landslides, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) has notified the Kerala government that 49.7% of the state (19,301 sq km) is prone to landslides. Additionally, the state-level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) grants new quarries environmental clearances (EC). In just two and a half months, up to mid-March of this year, the SEIAA issued ECs to 30 building stone quarries. According to government data, there are 529 active building stone quarries in Kerala, with 416 operating under leases that allow quarrying for up to 12 years. Most active quarries are located in the northern districts of Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Palakkad, making up 58% of the total quarries. The construction sector in Kerala imports building stones from other states and uses stones from functional quarries. In 202122 alone, 395,803 new buildings were constructed in the state, compared to 389,544 new buildings in 201617. ``Imposing substantial taxes on large concrete structures could discourage the excessive use of natural resources. Currently, building permits are issued based on factors like floor area ratio and infrastructure amenities rather than the raw materials used. Although a democratic government may not directly restrict construction activities, it could implement heavy taxes on structures that use large quantities of raw materials to limit the exploitation of resources,'' said J Devika, a faculty with the Centre for Development Studies in Thiruvananthapuram. A survey conducted by two scientists from the KFRI in 2023 identified 33 stone quarries within a 10-kilometre radius of Kavalappara, a highly sensitive portion of the ecologically fragile Western Ghats. This area was the site of a massive landslide on August 8, 2019, which resulted in the death of 59 people. Satellite images of the area clearly illustrate that the disaster's impact was exacerbated by changes to the landscape caused by quarries, which made the hills unstable. V. Sajeev, who heads the forest health division at KFRI, said authorities had allowed quarry operations in the area without conducting any environmental impact study. A KFRI team, including scientists T.J. Alex and Sajeev, submitted a report to the state government four years ago, strongly recommending advanced studies before permitting mining in environmentally sensitive areas of the Western Ghats. Sajeev emphasised the importance of mining for construction activities but that it must not come at the expense of the people's environment, lives, livelihoods, and safety. The state, however, has yet to address the issue of uncontrolled quarrying and its impact on forests, the environment, and livelihoods. "Between 1983 and 2023, the state experienced 172 large-scale landslides, with 78 occurring within a one-kilometre radius of functioning stone quarries. These quarries are removing surface-level soil, disrupting the natural absorption of water, and contributing to mudslides and landslides,'' said N Badusha, president of Wayanad Prakrithi Samrakshana Samithy, an environmental organisation. He said that quarries and an underground water erosion phenomenon called 'soil piping' pose major threats to Kerala's hill regions. Despite this, the government has made controversial decisions regarding quarrying activities, such as excluding 4,000 square kilometres of land from a law banning quarrying in ecologically sensitive areas and permitting quarrying in agricultural lands designated to private individuals. Environmentalists remain sceptical despite the government's claims that no quarry has been approved in flood-hit and ecologically sensitive areas. Quarry operators have opposed the NGTs directive to allow stone quarrying only at specified distances from residential and public areas, resulting in a high court-issued stay. The NGT has criticised the state government's decision to permit quarries at a distance of 50 metres from habitations, stating that it could harm the environment and public health. As a result, the Kerala Assembly's environmental panel has called for a comprehensive mining policy to bring all existing quarries under government control. The committee has also urged the Central Pollution Control Board to impose more stringent conditions for quarry operations, particularly regarding the distance from human settlements and environmentally fragile forest areas. Despite the grim situation, the state government and its enforcement agencies have ignored the quarries' blatant violations. The government should promptly accept the legislature panel's recommendations and bring all quarries under government control," said environmental activist Vinod Payyada. Bangladesh's garments manufacturers body has called for a complete shutdown of all facilities causing a major disruption to the nation's key industry, according to a BBC report. This comes a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stepped down and fled the country. Pedestrians walk past an H&M store on Nanjing Road in Shanghai, China, on Saturday, July 27, 2024 (Qilai Shen/Bloomberg) Also Read: Bangladesh crisis may not impact India's overall trade balance: S&P Global Ratings Which companies will be affected because of Bangladesh's political situation? This shutdown of garment factories will hit global apparel giants like H&M and Zara as Bangladesh is a prime hub for producing clothing. Also Read: Never quit your job, get laid off instead, says US self-made multimillionaire H&M sources garments from more than 1,000 Bangladesh factories, while Zara's key manufacturing clusters are based in Bangladesh. How will the shutdown of garment factories affect Bangladesh's economy? Moreover, the ready-made garment industry contributes about 83% of Bangladesh's total earnings, with Bangladesh exporting $38.4bn worth of clothes in 2023, as per World Trade Organisation (WTO) data. Bangladesh also ranks number 3 after China and the European Union (EU) when it comes to apparel exports. Also Read: Zepto moving headquarters from Mumbai to Bengaluru? Employees told to relocate The political situation in Bangladesh thus, creates a huge cloud of uncertainty, especially since multiple reports have mentioned cases of looting in Dhaka and other major cities. When it came to Sheikh Hasina's official residence itself, protestors looted anything and everything, with photos of cheerful protesters coming out of the official residence going viral on social media. The country is currently in a transitional phase and the formation of an interim government is being waited for. Elon Musks social media platform X (formerly Twitter) will close its San Francisco office which marks the ending of the company's presence in the city where it was founded in 2006. With this, X employees are set to be relocated to San Jose and Palo Alto as the company is making a broader shift in its operations, Bloomberg reported. Elon Musk arrives at the 10th Breakthrough Prize Ceremony at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles.(AP) The report cited an internal email in which X CEO Linda Yaccarino announced the closure of the Market Street office which has been a key location for the company since it moved there. This follows Elon Musks acquisition of the company in 2022 after which he expressed discontent with San Francisco's cultural and political climate saying that the company is dissatisfied with the city and California state legislation under Governor Gavin Newsom. Elon Musk had previously indicated that X would relocate its headquarters to Texas. Earlier, the company put 460,000 square feet of its San Francisco office space up for lease. The closure marks the end of an era for San Francisco where Twitter began nearly two decades ago. The Market Street office was part of a development that included other tech companies as well which benefitted from special tax breaks. San Francisco currently has the highest office-vacancy rate among major US metro areas, surpassing 36%, as per data. The initial public offering (IPO) of Firstcry opens for subscription today (August 6) and will close on August 8. Through the offer, the company aims to raise 4,194 crore. Here are 10 things to know about the Firstcry IPO: FirstCry IPO: The price range of Firstcry IPO is in the range of 440-465 per share and investors can bid for 32 shares in one lot. 1. Firstcry is Indias largest multi-channel retailing platform for mothers, babies and kids products, in terms of GMV for the financial year 2024. The company sells its products in India online and through company-owned stores, franchisee-owned stores and retail distribution. 2. Firstcry IPO comprises a fresh issue of shares worth 1,666 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of up to 5.4 crore shares with a face value of 2 per share. 3. The price range of Firstcry IPO is in the range of 440-465 per share and investors can bid for 32 shares in one lot. 4. The current GMP of Firstcry is 85 in the unlisted market which indicates a premium of 18% to the issue price. 5. The IPO reserves about 75% for qualified institutional buyers, 10% for retail investors and the remaining 15% for non-institutional investors. 6. In FY24, Firstcry reported 15% growth in operating revenue at 6,481 crore. The company reduced losses by 34% to 321 crore during the same period and in the last three years the company's revenue from operations has grown to 6,481 crore for FY24 from 2,401 crore in FY22. 7. Net proceeds from the IPO will be used by the company for setting up new modern stores under the brand 'BabyHug', for investment in Digital Age, overseas expansion and other initiatives, Firstcry said. 8. Book running lead managers of the Firscry IPO are Kotak Investment Banking, Morgan Stanley, BofA Securities, JM Financial and Avendus. 9. Link Intime India is the registrar of Firstcry IPO. 10. The share allotment for the IPO will likely be finalised on August 9 and the company is likely to list on stock exchanges on August 13. A Google employee has shared a glimpse into the search engine giant's canteen at its Gurgaon office, showing the various food options as well as different cuisines on offer, all for free. A sign is displayed on a Google building at their campus in Mountain View, California, on Sept. 24, 2019 (Jeff Chiu/AP) Also Read: Never quit your job, get laid off instead, says US self-made multimillionaire Parleen Ranhotra, a Google employee based in Gurgaon shared on an Instagram reel titled, What I eat as a Google employee, mouthwatering clips of the meals served to employees, with a caption reading, Google serves all day every day. Ranhotra shared that Google has a plate of the day every day and that it was a ramen bowl on that day. Also Read: Zepto moving headquarters from Mumbai to Bengaluru? Employees told to relocate "I literally scream every time it's lunch because look at the selection," she said. Her plate went on to be piled with tandoori roti, mutton shammi kebab, salad, along with a bowl of chicken ramen. This was then topped with a jar of tiramisu jar and a dark chocolate gelato for dessert. On top of it all, Ranhotra said that she has no qualms when it came to recording food videos at the Google canteen in front of her managers. Also Read: Infosys' 32,000-crore tax demand not to be relaxed by government: Report Google is well known for offering an impressive range of food for its employees all over the globe, all for free. Similarly Bengaluru-based illustrator Alicia Souza revealed last year that Google also offers snack drawers for employees, when she visited Google's office. Souza shared pictures showing that each drawer was filled with a different snack, including almond brittle, chocolates, chewing gum, different kinds of biscuits, cup noodles, various kinds of chips and more. Reliance arm Jio Financial Services Ltd announced entry of the JioFinance app in Paris in order to assist Indian travelers to transact digitally, the company said. Using JioFinance app, you can now make international payments for buying tickets to visit the Eiffel Tower through its official website, La Tour Eiffel. You can also use the app for in-store shopping at the iconic Parisian department store, Galeries Lafayette Paris Hausmann, the company said. JioFinance app will be experienced through an experience center inside India House which has been conceptualised by Reliance Foundation. What JioFinance said on its new international move? "Designed for frictionless navigation, JioFinance aims to offer a refined digital experience for all Indians at every step of their financial journey. The app caters to users across levels of familiarity with financial technology, ensuring effortless money management at their fingertips," it said. How will the JioFinance app function? The app will be experienced through an experience center inside India House which has been conceptualised by Reliance Foundation, in partnership with the Indian Olympic Association. JioFinance has partnered with Visa which is the official payments partner of the Olympic Games Paris 2024. The company said in a release, "Designed for frictionless navigation, JioFinance aims to offer a refined digital experience for all Indians at every step of their financial journey. The app caters to users across levels of familiarity with financial technology, ensuring effortless money management on their fingertips." The JioFinance app was launched in May this year. The app offers digital banking with a comprehensive user-friendly interface, insurance advisory, expert guidance on insurance products and more. Amit Mehta, an Indian-origin judge appointed by former US President Barack Obama, ruled that Google violated antitrust law after a highly anticipated and massive trial involving the tech giant. The trial was centered on allegations by US Department of Justice (DOJ) and several American states that said that Google employed illegal business practices to maintain dominance of its search engine. The trial began in September last year and continued for 10 weeks. Google antitrust ruling: Amit P. Mehta is an Indian-origin judge who was appointed by former US President Barack Obama, Here are top points on Amit Mehta who oversaw and ruled in Google's antitrust judgement: 1. Amit Mehta was appointed to the US District Court for the District of Columbia in December 2014. 2. He was born in Gujarat in 1971 and moved to the US with his parents at the age of one. Amit Mehta received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics from Georgetown University before pursuing a law degree. 3. He is the first Asian-Pacific American to be sworn into the US District Court for the District of Columbia. 4. Amit Mehta began his legal career in 1997 after graduating from the University of Virginia School of Law. 5. After getting a law degree, he worked at law firms like Latham & Watkins and Zuckerman Spaeder LLP, representing high-profile clients. 6. He served as the attorney for former Representative Tom Feeney and helped former International Monetary Fund (IMF) president Dominique Strauss-Kahn defeat criminal assault charges in a New York court. 7. Judge Amit Mehta has shown his love for music during various rulings. In a 2015 opinion, he mentioned his favorite musical artists, including Jay-Z, Kanye West, Drake, and Eminem and in a 2018 opinion, he quoted lyrics from Beyonce's song Sorry. 8. Amit Mehta has previously ruled on cases including those related to the January 6 Capitol riots in which he denied former President Donald Trump's attempt to dismiss civil lawsuits holding him accountable for inciting the riot. He wrote in the ruling, To deny a President immunity from civil damages is no small step. The court well understands the gravity of its decision. But the alleged facts of this case are without precedent, and the court believes that its decision is consistent with the purposes behind such immunity. Indian indices opened higher following a rally in Asian markets as US central bank officials soothed investor nerves after a massive selloff in the previous session. The NSE Nifty 50 index rose 1.11% at 24,329.85 and BSE Sensex added 1.2% at 79,743.87. On August 5, Nifty 50 and Sensex logged their worst session in two months amid a global sell-off on fears of a likely US recession. Stock market today: A bird flies past a screen displaying the Sensex results on the facade of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) building in Mumbai.(Reuters) All the 13 major sectors logged gains. The broader, more domestically focused small- and mid-caps rose about 2% each. What about Asian and global markets? Asian markets recovered from the drop with the MSCI Asia ex-Japan index rising 1.7%. However, Wall Street equities logged losses. What can you expect from the stock market today? A Balasubramanian, managing director and chief executive at Aditya Birla Sun Life Asset Management Company, said, Long-term investors should not be deterred by such global uncertainties. Market downturns should be viewed as an opportunity and capitalising on dips can be beneficial. Which stocks rose most at opening today? ONGC added 3.7% after it topped first quarter profit estimates on strong fuel demand. The stock was the top Nifty 50 gainer. Shares of Bharti Airtel rose 1.5% after the telecom services provider beat June quarter profit estimates. What about oil prices today? Oil prices fell amid volatile trade, driven by a global stock market selloff and fears of a US economic slowdown, despite concerns that Iran's retaliation for a Hamas leader's assassination could spark a wider Middle East conflict. Prathamesh Mallya, DVP- Research, Non-Agri Commodities and Currencies, Angel One Ltd, said, Crude oil prices are expected to remain volatile, influenced by geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. Two-wheeler maker TVS Motor Company reported better-than-expected first-quarter profit owing to firm demand for its two-wheelers and strong margins. The company, which makes the Jupiter brand of scooters and the Apache line of motorcycles, said its profit rose 23.5% to 5.77 billion rupees in the quarter ended June 30 from a year earlier. TVS Motor quarter results: Vimal Sumbly, Head Business - Premium, TVS Motor Company poses for photographs during the launch of the company's two new variants: TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and TVS Apache RTR 160, in Hyderabad.(PTI) TVS Motor's earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization margin rose to 11.5% from 10.6% a year ago. Brokerage Motilal Oswal had estimated it to be around 11.7% while Prabhudas Lilladher predicted it at 11.4%. This comes as total two-wheeler sales in India rose 20.4% in the June quarter from the year earlier and TVS' sales jumped 14.1% to more than a million units in the quarter. TVS Motor's June quarter expenses rose 14.5% which was its slowest rise in three quarters and helped push up margins. Revenue from operations rose a less-than-expected 16% to 83.76 billion rupees. Quick commerce startup Zepto is preparing to move its base from Mumbai to Bengaluru, Monecontrol reported. The company will move from Powai in Mumbai to Sarjapur in Bengaluru. A Zepto employee told the outlet, While the company has been flexible for now, we have all been mandated to relocate to Bengaluru by the end of November or early December." Zepto's co-founders Kaivalya Vohra and Aadit Palicha A person aware of the development told Moneycontrol that Zepto will bear relocation expenses for all employees willing to move to Bengaluru. The entire process is estimated to cost the company around 3-4 crore as a one time expense and the relocation cost will be offset because Zepto is estimated to save around 40-50 lakh in rent per month because of its move from Mumbai to Bengaluru. At present, the three-year-old company has business verticals in Mumbai and tech and product teams in Bengaluru. With the move, Zepto will bring all its 1,700-1,800 employees in Bengaluru where it already has an office. In Mumbai, Zepto has a 80,000-90,000 square feet property while in Bengaluru the company has a 30,000-40,000 square feet space. Now, it will give up both these buildings and move into a larger 1.5 lakh square-feet property in Bengaluru, ther report claimed. The report also claimed that Zepto is already in advanced stages to finalise a property of that size in and around Sarjapur, HSR or Bellandur where several large multinational companies and startups are based. Zepto's rivals- Swiggy and Flipkart- also have offices in the same neighbourhood. A source said as per the report, Of the total 1,000 employees in Mumbai, around 90 percent are already willing to move and the remaining are in discussions to relocate. If all goes to plan, just 5-7 percent of the 1,000 will be unable to move to Bengaluru." Bengaluru, The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has busted a racket in smuggling of dried seahorses by arresting three people from Tamil Nadu with 6,626 seahorses at the Kempegowda International Airport here, a DRI official said on Tuesday. With this, the DRI Bengaluru official claimed, a major smuggling network involved in the illegal trade of dried seahorses has been dismantled. Acting on specific intelligence, DRI Bengaluru officers apprehended three individuals linked to this syndicate on August 3 at Terminal-1, Kempegowda Airport," he said. "The suspects were en route to Singapore via Mumbai, in a flight of a private airline, when their checked baggage was examined, leading to the discovery of 6,626 seahorses." Its the biggest seizure of seahorses in recent times. The three passengers have been arrested and are under investigation. All of them are from Tamil Nadu and are in their mid 30s, the official said. According to him, all species of seahorses in India are classified under Schedule-I of the Wildlife Act, 1972, making their sale, purchase, and any form of utilisation illegal and punishable. Furthermore, under Export Policy, the export of wild animals and marine species, including their parts and products, is strictly prohibited. Consequently, the seahorses were seized under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962, in conjunction with the Wildlife Act, 1972, it was noted. DRI sources said that on August 4, 2024, following a meticulously planned operation, the key figure orchestrating the smuggling operation was apprehended here. This individual was instrumental in coordinating the procurement and shipment of the seahorses to Singapore. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to unravel the broader smuggling network operating between India and Southeast Asian countries, he added. The DRI official said the demand for dried seahorses in Southeast Asian markets is primarily driven by their use in traditional medicine, gourmet cuisine, and as ornamental species for aquariums. In traditional Chinese medicine, seahorses are prized for their supposed health benefits, while they are also considered a delicacy in some culinary traditions. Additionally, their unique appearance makes them popular among marine enthusiasts, he added. HT Image A seven-year-old boy, Gurman Singh, died, while five children were hospitalised after their school van rammed into a tree on Raikot Road in Jagraon sub division of Ludhiana district on Tuesday morning, police said. The private school van that it rammed into a tree on Raikot Road in Jagraon sub division of Ludhiana district on Tuesday morning, leaving a student dead and five children injured. (HT Photo) Class 1 student Gurnam, who belongs to the nearby Akhara village, fell out of the vehicle and died on the spot due to the impact of the crash, the police said, adding the condition of the five children, who were admitted in a nearby hospital, is stable. Inspector Amritpal Singh, the station house officer of Jagraon city, said a search was on to arrest the driver, Chamkaur Singh, who fled abandoning the van after the accident. There were 25 children in the van when the accident occurred. Eyewitnesses said the driver lost control of the van that belonged to a private school located on Raikot Road and it crashed into the tree. They rushed the children to a nearby hospital and informed the police. Some children with minor injuries were discharged after being administered first aid at the hospital, they said. Later, parents of the children held a protest and blocked Raikot Road, seeking the arrest of the driver, who they claimed was drunk at the time of the accident. Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday said that those responsible for the desecration of Guru Granth Sahib would be given exemplary punishment. Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann addressed a gathering after inaugurating the state-level Van Mahotsav by planting a sapling at the community centre in Hoshiarpur on Tuesday. (HT file photo) Speaking at the state-level Van Mahotsav function at Hoshiarpur, Mann said that once evidence is compiled, action would be taken against the guilty. Reacting to Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president and former deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badals apology to Akal Takht following allegations against his party for taking controversial decisions during its rule from 2007-17 and failing to take action in the 2105 sacrilege and Behbal Kalan firing incidents, Mann said that mistakes could be forgiven, not sins. He said that the Akali leadership had already been held guilty in the court of public and now it was time to punish them legally. He claimed that startling facts had come to the fore in the inquiry in the sacrilege case. If our scriptures are not safe in our own land, how can we expect their sanctity will be preserved elsewhere? he said. Mann said that the turn of events that had brought an abrupt end to prime minister Sheikh Hasinas 15-year-old rule in Bangladesh had taught the lesson that authoritarian rule could not last forever. There is a limit to peoples tolerance. You cannot go on nursing your own ambitions and feeding your own families. There is a lesson to be learnt from the way angry people ransacked the Bangladesh prime ministers house and did not even spare her pets. Wisdom lies in staying in touch with the public and working for them, he said. The chief minister inaugurated the state-level Van Mahotsav by planting a sapling at the community centre in Hoshiarpur. He was accompanied by state forest minister Lal Chand Kataruchak, revenue minister Brahm Shankar Jimpa and Member of Parliament Raj Kumar Chabbewal. He said that there was a plan to plant three crore saplings across the state this year under the states green initiative. Mann handed over carbon credit cheques to farmers for adopting environmentally sustainable agriculture practices, such as direct seeding and low tillage. Under the scheme, 45 crore would be distributed to the farmers in four phases, he said. He appealed to farmers who avail free electricity for irrigation, to plant at least four trees around their tubewells, adding that the government could bring in a law to implement this scheme. New Delhi, A labourer died while four others including a woman were injured when a crane rammed into temporary accommodation provided to workers near a Metro construction site in south-east Delhi's Pul Prahladpur area early Tuesday morning, officials said. HT Image The incident occurred when the victims were sleeping in the shelter near the Okhla Metro site on MB Road, they said. "On receiving a call at 3.54 am, the local police reached the spot, where a heavy-duty crane had rammed into the shelter," an official said. Due to the impact, the wall of the shelter collapsed and five people including a woman were injured. A man identified as Graiba, 35, suffered critical injuries in the head while the other four received injuries on their hands and legs. All five injured were shifted to AIIMS Trauma Centre where Gariba was declared dead. "The victims were labourers of PWD , who were living near the site. "The driver of the crane fled from the spot. The crane belongs to a private company and was deployed in at the ongoing Metro project at Okhla T-point," police said in a statement. A guard deployed at the metro site, Deepak, told the police that the driver of the crane was taking the vehicle from the metro site to the Tughlakabad area. At a turn on MB Road, he lost control of the vehicle which rammed into the shelter situated along the carriageway. All the victims including the injured identified as Khem Chand, Har Kaur, Rameshwar and Ghanshyam hail from Uttar Pradesh's Jhansi. The police said that the family members of the victims have been informed and a case under relevant sections has been registered against the crane driver. Efforts are on to nab the accused, they said. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text. Senior superintendent of police (SSP), Bulandshahr, Shlok Kumar has suspended four policemen after a purported video of an incident in which they were seen removing a weapon from a motorcycle and planting it in a car went viral on social media on Monday. The incident occurred in Shikarpur police station area of Bulandshahr. In a purported video, the cops were seen removing a weapon from a motorcycle and planting it in a car. (For Representation) Those suspended included station house officer, Shikarpur police station, Rajesh Chaturvedi; sub-inspector Shubham Choudhary, constables Dharmendra and Sunil Kumar. After the accused policemens alleged wrongdoing, the car owner was sent to jail on charges of keeping an illegal weapon. Two home guards are also visible in the purported video and recommendation for action against them has been sent to their senior officer. Bulandshahrs superintendent of police, crime, Rakesh Kumar Mishra conducted initial inquiry into the incident after its video surfaced and submitted his report to the SSP. The SSP said a departmental inquiry had been ordered against the accused cops after their suspension and further action would be initiated on the basis of the inquiry report. SP(crime) Rakesh Kumar Mishra said the owner of the car has been identified as Amit, a youth hailing from a nearby village. He was sent to jail after an illegal weapon was recovered from his car and later the court granted him bail, said Mishra. Cops could be seen in the video taking out a weapon probably a country-made pistol wrapped in a white piece of cloth from the basket of a motorcycle and thereafter planting it in the car after opening its front door. Meanwhile, the SSP said footage of the recording just before the incident and after the incident was found missing. The owner of the shop on whose CCTV camera the incident was captured informed police that the recording just before and after the incident was missing, the SSP said and added that a detailed investigation will help in revealing the facts about the incident. One woman was killed and nine others suffered injuries after two houses collapsed in Khowa Gali near Kashi Vishwanath temple complex in Chowk locality here early on Tuesday. The deceased was identified as Premlata Gupta, in her 40s, officials said. Rescue work at the site of the house collapse in Varanasi lasted around four hours. (HT photo) As per a press statement of information department, a total of 10 people were hurt in the incident. Of them, seven are being treated at the divisional hospital, Kabirchaura and two are under treatment at the trauma centre, BHU. Expressing his grief over the death of a woman in the house collapse, PM Narendra Modi talked to divisional commissioner Kaushal Raj Sharma over the phone regarding the incident and took detailed information, including about those who lived the two houses. He directed Sharma to ensure proper treatment of the injured. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath also directed officials to provide all help to the injured. Varanasi divisional commissioner Kaushal Raj Sharma, who visited the spot, said, Two houses collapsed here in which nine people were trapped. Two of them came out on their own and others were rescued. One woman has lost her life and one woman constable was injured and has been referred to the trauma centre. The remaining are under treatment. Soon after receiving information, two National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams led by NDRF inspectors Yadav Krishna Kumar and Ramyagya Shukla reached the spot and started an intensive search, relief and rescue operation, said NDRF inspector Nitish Kumar Dheeraj, adding that the two teams had around 100 rescuers. Deputy inspector general, 11 NDRF, Manoj Kumar Sharma monitored the entire rescue operation, Dheeraj added. NDRF personnel rescued seven people, including four men and three women, from under the debris. One woman was found unconscious, he said. All those rescued were sent to the divisional government hospital. The rescue operation lasted around four hours. Four of the nine people admitted to the divisional hospital were later referred to the trauma centre at Banaras Hindu University (BHU). A constable Bindu, who also suffered injuries, and was rushed to a hospital from where she was also referred to the BHUs trauma centre. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee president Ajay Rai met the injured at the divisional hospital and assured them all possible help. He also demanded the state government to provide proper compensation to the family of the deceased and free treatment to the injured. According to officials, two houses CK28/6 and 28/7 collapsed. In one of them, one Ashok Yadav was living on rent. After feeling some trembling in the house, Yadav jumped to another building whereas Ramesh Chandra Gupta and his family members, including his wife Kusum Lata, son Risham, daughter Ritika, brother Manish, his wife Pooja and their son Aryan were present in the other house. Rameshs sister-in-law Premlata Gupta along with her daughter from Ghazipurs Sadat was also there. About Premlatas death, the divisional commissioner said some heavy object fell on her neck leading to her death. The process has been started to give compensation to next of kin of the deceased. Our first priority is to provide best possible treatment to the injured, Sharma added. He further said under rules related to safety of buildings, building owners are not required to take permission/NOC from the temple administration for repairing, whitewashing and construction and any other work in any building located outside the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor premises. Varanasi Nagar Nigam (VNN) public relations officer Sandeep Srivastava said a notice was issued to Ajeet Kumar, the owner of house number CK 28/6 twice, first on January 23, 2015 and then on December 2, 2015 to get the building razed as soon as possible as it was in a dilapidated state. Despite it, the building owner did not take any action for the safety of those living in it. Panel for action regarding old buildings soon There are 404 dilapidated buildings in areas falling under the Varanasi Nagar Nigam (VNN). The civic body has already issued notices to all owners to demolish their buildings under Section 331 of the Municipal Corporation Act, 1959, said public relations officer, VNN, Sandeep Srivastava in a press statement. Moreover, municipal commissioner Akshat Verma, while talking to media persons, said for the safety of the general public, a joint committee of district administration, police, development authority and municipal corporation will be formed for demolition or necessary action regarding all dilapidated buildings located in the city. In recent past, the VNN identified around 50 buildings in the area which need extensive repairing because they are in a shambles. The nagar nigam issued notices to about 50 people in the area for getting their houses repaired. Having taken over as the new Mohali senior superintendent of police (SSP) on Saturday, Deepak Pareek on Tuesday held a press conference at his office to share his road map for the district. Before taking over as the Mohali SSP, Deepak Pareek has already held the charge in Mansa, Patiala and Bathinda as well, besides working in the DGP staff. (Sanjeev Sharma/HT) A 2014-batch IPS officer and a native of Rajasthan, Pareek initially served as station house officer (SHO) at B-division police station in Amritsar. He was stationed in Pathankot at the time of the terrorist attack on the Indian Airforces Pathankot Airbase in 2016 and later served in Malout as ASP, SP (headquarters) in Faridkot, SP in Ludhiana and joint CP in Ludhiana city. Before taking over as the Mohali SSP, he has already held the charge in Mansa, Patiala and Bathinda as well, besides working in the DGP staff. Sharing his vision for Mohali, Pareek said his focus will be on prompt and proactive policing, apart from decreasing the complaint pendency in the district. We will work in coordination with the public and stay in touch with RWAs. Meanwhile, my focus will be on curbing cyber crime, economic offences and to proactively guide people. We will also work out plans to streamline traffic and curb drug menace by eliminating point of sales. I will also ensure thorough and timebound investigation, said the SSP. He also emphasised on coordination with police counterparts from the neighbouring states and Chandigarh to stop cross-border criminal activities. We will ensure deployment of police after identifying major crime areas. I will also ensure patrolling at night as per required, he added. Araria district magistrate Inayat Khan has ordered a probe into the construction of a bridge allegedly on farmland with no road connectivity in Bihars Araria district. The bridge in contention in Araria. (HT Photo) A team of experts is visiting the site of bridge construction to study the feasibility of the bridge at the site. They will submit a detailed report, and action will be taken against officials, including engineers, if they are found guilty, the DM said on Tuesday. Locals say the bridge is nothing but an object of beauty with no use at all. The bridge was reportedly built six months ago by the rural works department at Parmanandpur village under Raniganj block of Araria, but since then has had no road connectivity. It is just hanging in the balance, the villagers said. The bridge was to be built along with a 3.2-km-long road. Actually, this is not a bridge. It is a box culvert, used for bridging purposes and maintaining waterways underneath. This was built under Mukhyamantri Gramin Sadak Yojana. The box culvert is on a proposed 3.2-km-long metal road between Parmanandpur Lakshmisthan and Kopari Border, assistant engineer Manoj Kumar said. He alleged, Some villagers demanded money from the contractor and when he denied, they put the fabricated photograph of it on social media. Kumar claimed that the box culvert would benefit over 1,500 people living in two villages once it gets connected with road. The cost of the bridge and the road is about 3 crore. He, however, admitted that 200m of the road is private land, which is why the box culvert has connectivity issued. Once the issue of a 200-metre-long road gets resolved, it will be connected by road, he said, adding, we have started resolving the issue of land. Kumar also denied corruption charges and claimed that the bridge has been constructed as per the norms. The matter has surfaced at a time when several bridges in Bihar have collapsed in quick succession, raising questions on their construction quality. In Araria, a 183-metre-long bridge, built at a cost of 12 crore, collapsed on June 18 and a probe is still underway. The challenges for India from Sheikh Hasinas ouster are daunting. Under her, Bangladesh was the friendliest it has been to India after the initial years of its Independence in 1971, not just by refusing to shelter insurgents from Indias Northeast but also by being mindful of Indias concerns in engaging with nations hostile to the latter. As a corollary of this trust nurtured by Dhaka, New Delhi deepened trade and investment ties. Now, the political vacuum in Dhaka should worry India on security, given the infamous porosity of the 4,100-kilometre long border between the countries, apart from trade. A general view shows barricades aligned outside the Bangladesh High Commission building in New Delhi on August 6, 2024. Bangladesh's military was in control of the country on August 6, after mass protests forced longtime ruler Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee. (Photo by Sajjad HUSSAIN / AFP) (AFP) Bangladeshs centrality to the Neighbourhood First aspect of Indias foreign policy makes the developments in the country even more worrying from New Delhis perspective. Indias push for regional energy and transport connectivity is also an attempt to contain Chinese influence in Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan. A growing Bangladesh needed Nepal and Bhutan to provide both markets for its products and power for its industry, and India was happy to play facilitator through its grid, road and railway networks. A number of agreements had been arrived at, with India hoping to draw these nations together in an economic embrace, away from Chinas overtures. All that is now at risk. While Hasinas ouster may have been precipitated by the student protests and the brutal crackdown that followed, it has rejuvenated parties such as the Bangladesh National Party (BNP), the main opposition party, the Jamaat-e-Islami, and other hardline Islamist outfits. The Bangladeshi military, which is in charge till a caretaker government is formed, ordered the release of BNP supremo Khaleda Zia. When in power, the BNP and its allies were less than lukewarm on developing a mutually beneficial relationship with India. They vociferously opposed almost all agreements with India under the Hasina regime, and the perception was that they were more receptive of Chinas attempts to woo their country. For India, this complicates the picture. It must support Bangladeshs return to democracy at the earliest, but must also contend with the likelihood of less-friendly dispensations making a return in Dhaka given that the popular mood there is against Hasinas Awami League. As per a recent report by Schengen News, Germany Has Granted 80,000 Work Visas in 1st Half of 2024. The visas were granted for employment purposes between January and June 2024, the Federal Foreign Office told the German Press Agency. German Economic Institute (IW) in its analysis had confirmed that Germany is facing a workforce shortage and noted that 570,000 jobs remained unfilled in the country in 2023. (Photo by Sanchit Khanna/ Hindustan Times) (Sanchit Khanna/HT PHOTO) As per the news report, 40,000 of the work visas that were granted by Germany were issued to skilled workers, which is 3,000 more when compared to the work visas that were granted during the same period of 2023. The increase in visa issuance by the country is closely related to the countrys labour shortages, particularly for skilled workers. German Economic Institute (IW) in its analysis had confirmed that Germany is facing a workforce shortage and noted that 570,000 jobs remained unfilled in the country in 2023. As per the analysis, the workforce shortage is consequently affecting the countrys economy. Also Read: Germany's TUM to charge tuition fee from international students; will other public universities follow the suit? Roles facing workforce shortage According to Schengen News, among the roles that are facing a workforce shortage include several sectors like transportation, manufacturing, construction, healthcare, engineering, and information technology. As per another study by the Institute for Employment Research (IAB), the number of labour shortages in the country is expected to increase further in the coming years, as per a study by. Referring to this study, German Labour Minister Hubertus Heil said in an earlier statement that the country will need seven million employees by 2035, reported Schengen News. In a bid to combat the shortage of workforce in the country, authorities will introduce the Indian Skilled Worker strategy to German-Indian government consultations this autumn. Germany has also eased up on the immigration rules in order to attract more skilled labour to the country, mentioned the report. Also Read: More than 13.35 lakh Indian students pursuing higher studies abroad, Canada top destination, US next, check list Adil Hussain has had a diverse filmography in both Indian and foreign cinema. He is known for his roles in films such as English Vinglish, The Reluctant Fundamentalist, Life of Pi, and Hotel Salvation. In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, Adil talks about his experience working with Janhvi Kapoor in the movie Ulajh, as well as Indian cinema's portrayal of LGBTQ relationships and more. (Also read: Adil Hussain on being congratulated instead of Turkeys Olympic shooter Yusuf Dikec: It was really funny) Adil Hussain says his Ulajh co-star Janhvi Kapoor is a sincere actor like her mother Sridevi. Adil Hussain says Janhvi Kapoor is sincere like Sridevi Adil has worked with Janhvi's mother Sridevi in English Vinglish. When asked about his working experience with her for the first time, he says, It's very nostalgic to work with Janhvi because I met her several times when she came to the set with her mother, Sridevi. She was a little girl of 12-14 years old. I saw her several times and said hello to her. She would come and quietly sit on the set with her mother between takes because Sridevi was a quiet person but extremely loving. That is one of the reasons I am in the film. Also, the story is amazing and I've known Sudhanshu Saria for some time now. He further says, During the shoot, it was very interesting because my relationship with her in the film is very close. It was also nostalgic, and we spoke about her mother. I cooked for her in New York when she was there; we were shooting for English Vinglish at that time. What I noticed about her is that she probably imbibed from her mother, who was a great example of how an actor should be on set - completely focused, quiet, sincere, and yet very spontaneous at the same time, with the innocence of herself transpiring through the character. These were very striking elements that I have seen in her. Adil Hussain praises filmmaker Sudhanshu Saria Sudhanshu, whose 2015 romantic-drama Loev won accolades at the 2016 Tel Aviv International Film Festival, had his first theatrical release with Ulajh. When quizzed about what interested him about the movie when he came onboard, Adil says, He (Sudhanshu Saria) previously directed a film called Loev. His another movie titled Sanaa premiered at the New York Film Festival. I was supposed to play a role in that film, but our schedules didn't align. It was a fantastic story. When I discussed the previous film with Sudhanshu, I appreciated the clarity and attention to detail in the character descriptions. After reading the script, I liked it. The subject matter, which focused on a woman, resonated with me. I believe Sudhanshu has a lot to offer to the Indian film industry due to his thorough and empathetic approach towards women's existence on the planet. It's uncommon for male directors to have genuine empathy for the plight of women, based on what I've seen so far. Therefore, I was excited to be part of his new film (Ulajh), especially given the story and the fact that Janhvi is also involved in the project. Adil Hussain on LGBTQ inclusivity in Indian society Adil recently worked in Mitul Patel's Mercy based on the sensitive subject of euthanasia. He also portrayed a transgender character in a French movie. When asked if the audiences have evolved in terms of acceptance towards films on sensitive themes, the actor states, It's a positive indication of societal progress that we can openly discuss topics like homosexuality and lesbians today, whereas 20-30 years ago, it was not as accepted. My first experience portraying a gay character was in 2000 when Barry John and I performed in a play as Romeo and Juliet. I played Romeo, and he played Juliet. This was one of the initial plays to depict a gay relationship on stage 24 years ago. While the play focused on love, the relationship happened to be between two men. I viewed it as a love story, but it was a bold move in a society where homosexual relationships were not widely discussed at the time. He further says, It was a one-of-a-kind pioneer play called Goodbye Desdemona devised by Barry John, and me and directed by Roysten Abel. Most of the text came from Roysten and Shakespeare. Since then, from 2024 till today, I believe we have evolved rapidly. We are openly discussing topics like lesbians, bisexuality, transgender, and LGBTQ issues. The decriminalization of Article 377 by the Supreme Court was a big step. However, there is still progress to be made. These topics are not abominations but biological and psychosomatic conditions. There are a lot of papers on this, although I don't think people read much. Nevertheless, these issues are now out in the open, and I am very happy about it. I believe we are making progress and I see a lot of hope. Adil Hussain on encouraging meaningful cinema On being quizzed about the achievements and shortcomings of Indian cinema, ever since Adil started his career in theatre and films, the actor points out, I feel we are infants in terms of meaningful cinema. It all began with great filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, Ritwick Ghatak, and Tapan Sinha, who created incredibly beautiful films. The parallel cinema movement furthered this with filmmakers like Govind Nihalani. I was part of a Norwegian film called "What Will People Say," which had 90% of the cast made up of non-white actors and was set in Norway, depicting a first-generation Pakistani family. The film ran for six months in Norway and, while considered arthouse, was mainstream there. He further says, For India to achieve a similar standard of cinema, there needs to be a focus on creating and appreciating sensible, meaningful, and multi-layered films. These films should act as windows into the complexities of humanity in all its forms - not just biologically, but also mentally, intellectually, ideologically, and socially and politically. Celebrating these complexities will challenge the restrictive nature of mainstream commercial cinema, which tends to portray human beings in binary terms. This change won't happen overnight; it requires a shift in the way people are educated about cinema, starting from school. It will take time, but he is optimistic as India, with a population of 1.5 billion, has the potential. He hopes that the government will prioritize art education, leading to a more enlightened society. During a vacation in Istanbul, Turkey, actor Ashwath Bhatt was attacked by a robber. In an interview with ETimes, the actor narrated how he was assaulted on Sunday evening, while walking towards the popular tourist location, Galata Tower in the Beyoglu district. He added that despite warnings about pickpockets in Istanbul, he did not expect such a violent encounter. Also read: Mahir Pandhi opens up about being attacked in broad daylight Actor Ashwath Bhatt has spoken up about the attack on him in Istanbul. 'They werent expecting me to put up a fight' Ashwath said, "I was walking towards Galata Tower when a man approached me. He had a chain in his hand, and before I could fully comprehend what was happening, he hit me on the back with it. In retrospect, it was likely a gang working in tandem, trying to snatch my bag... for a second, I was so shocked - whats happening? But I think they werent expecting me to resist and put up a fight. While he was trying to snatch my bag, a cab driver stopped and intervened. The robber said something in Turkish and then fled. The cab driver saw my wound and immediately told me to go to the police." 'Nothing like this has ever happened to me' Ashwath added, "Its unfortunate that such a thing happened, especially in such a touristy area. People often advise not to get involved and not to report to the police. That word 'unnecessary' troubles me. People watch films and think Turkey is all romantic, but if we dont report crime, these incidents will only increase. Everybody warned me about pickpockets, but this was beyond anything I had imagined. Ive been to the Middle East, Egypt, and so many parts of Europe, and nothing like this has ever happened to me." A complaint is yet to be registered, added the report, as when Ashwath approached a patrol car, he was directed to a police station. Ashwath has worked in films such as IB71, Mission Majnu, Sita Ramam, Raaz Reboot, Rakkhosh, Raazi Phantom, Kesari, and Haider. Rajya Sabha had some light moments on Monday with Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan asking a poser to Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar about the meaning of the middle word in her official name, Jaya Amitabh Bachchan, and then suggesting that Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who is unmarried, add "name of his wife" to his name. The light-hearted sparring has its origins to Jaya Bachchan's remarks on July 29 when she raised some objections after Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh took her name as per official records. (Also Read Main Jaya Amitabh Bachchan: Actor leaves Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar in splits with her intro. Watch) Jaya Bachchan in Rajya Sabha on Monday She said, "this something new that women will be recognised by the name of their husbands". On Monday, Chairman Dhankhar asked the Samajwadi Party MP to ask her supplementary during question hour from Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and took her name as per official records. "Sir, aapko Amitabh ka matlab pata hai na (Sir, do you know the meaning of Amitabh)?" she asked. Dhankhar, who had earlier explained the procedure for a member to change his or her name, made similar remarks. "Ma'am aap badal dijiye, main badalwa dunga (Ma'am, you change it, I will get it changed). There is a procedure to change the name that you have submitted for your election certificate. I made use of the provision myself in 1989, and it is available for all the members. Please change it officially then," he said. The Sholay actor, however, said that she was proud of her husband Amitabh Bachchan's achievements. "No sir, I am very proud, I am very proud of my name and my husband and his achievements. It signifies abha, jo mit nahi sakti (the shine that cannot be wiped away). Don't worry, this drama you have started new, this was not there earlier," she said. At this, Dhankhar talked about his visit to a hotel in France years ago and said that Amitabh Bachchan's photograph was among the global icons. "I certify that the entire nation is proud...," Dhankhar said. As Jaya Bachchan got up to ask her supplementary from Khattar, she said "Sir, put his wife's name in front of his name". Dhankhar quipped that he sometimes refers to himself as "Sudeshpati", noting that his wife's name is Mrs Sudesh. Referring to his unmarried status, Manohar Lal Khattar said that he cannot fulfil what Jaya Bachchan is saying in this life. "For this, there will be a need to wait for the next life," he quipped. Amid smiles in the House, Dhankhar said that the House has an Assurance Committee and Khattar has given an assurance. "You have put yourself in the ambit of parliamentary tradition in your next life also," he said. As members smiled, Khattar answered the supplementary raised by Jaya Bachchan. In her remarks on July 29 when Harivansh took her name as Jaya Amitabh Bachchan, the former actor seemingly took exception. "This is something new, that women will be recognised by the name of their husbands like they have no existence or achievements of their own," she said. Jaya Bachchan, who has been an influential figure in both cinema and politics, married megastar Amitabh Bachchan on June 3, 1973. The couple has two children, Shweta Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan. The couple has acted in several films together, including Zanjeer, Sholay, Abhimaan, Mili, Chupke Chupke, Silsila, and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. Since entering politics in 2004, she has been a vocal advocate for women's rights and various social issues. The devastating floods and heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh have left a trail of destruction, claiming lives and sweeping away infrastructure across the state. On Tuesday, Mandi MP and actor Kangana Ranaut visited a few flood-hit areas in her home state, where rescue and relief measures were underway. Also read | Kangana Ranaut trends on Twitter for sharing morphed picture of Rahul Gandhi: 'Mandi selected a troll for Parliament' Kangana Ranaut met locals during her visit to flood-hit areas in Himachal Pradesh. 'Humans are so vulnerable before the nature' She shared a series of pictures from her visit as she met locals and assessed the work being done in the affected areas. "Today visiting various flood-hit areas in Himachal Pradesh," she wrote on Instagram Stories alongside a photo that showed the damage. Kangana hugged a woman in a picture, with which she wrote, "People have lost everything... in the vastness of that loss I feel immense pain and grief... our hope is PM Modi..." Sharing another photo of herself with local women, Kangana wrote on Instagram Stories, "Humans are so vulnerable before the nature... oh mother earth be kind to us..." The actor also shared a video of her drive in Himachal and wrote, Mountains (are) sometimes so serene, so blissful... at times so terrifying, so volatile. Just like me. I am mountains and they are me... Actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut visited flood-hit areas in Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday. Kangana Ranaut visited Himachal Pradesh amid the aftermath of a catastrophic flood. Visit comes after absence from Mandi was questioned As Himachal Pradesh grapples with the aftermath of yet another calamitous flood season, the focus remains on recovery and rebuilding efforts, with local authorities pledging relentless support until normalcy is restored across the state. Kangana's involvement has been under discussion amid widespread appeals for assistance from various quarters. The actor and BJP leader had recently taken to Instagram Stories and X to address the concerns and said she was advised by local authorities to not visit the affected areas in Himachal amid the catastrophic flood. I want to assure Himachal people I have their back After she was questioned for missing in action in rain-ravaged Mandi, the BJP MP had said recently that she was mobilising support' for Himachal, and will visit soon. She tweeted on Friday, I asked for meetings with PM ji and HM ji regarding flood destructions in Mandi constituency. I want to assure Himachal people I have their back and they will get BJPs full support. "It's a very saddening thing for us. The life of people living in the mountains is tough. Every year such tragedies come and damage the lives and property of the people of Himachal Pradesh. The PM and the Union HM have taken reports for all the things and have given assurance that more help through relief funds will be provided. I'll also meet different ministers to seek as much help as I can get. After my work is completed here, I'll visit Himachal to meet people in their tough times," Kangana also said. After more than a decade of its release, Son of Sardaar (2012) is now looking forward to setting the ball rolling on its sequel, titled Son of Sardaar 2. The sequel was to show Ajay Devgn and Sanjay Dutt battling it out again. However, as per a report by Mid-day, Sanjay has been replaced by Ravi Kishan. Also read | From arrest to release: A complete, 23-year-long Sanjay Dutt timeline Sanjay Dutt's visa troubles have reportedly led to him being ousted from Son of Sardaar 2. (AFP) Reason for Sanjay Dutt being dropped Sanjay lost out on the movie, which is being shot in Scotland and also stars Mrunal Thakur, after his UK visa application was rejected due to his incarceration in the past. A source told the portal, Ever since his arrest in 1993, while Sanju has travelled to the US, he has applied for a UK visa multiple times, but never got one. The Son of Sardaar 2 shoot would have been his first trip to the UK. However, after Ajays team found out that the senior actors visa request had been rejected, they replaced him with Ravi Kishan." The source also revealed if Sanjay's visa troubles could impact the shoot of Housefull 5 as the Akshay Kumar-starrer comedy is reportedly slated to be shot in September in London. Asked if producer Sajid Nadiadwala will also have to look for a replacement for Sanjay, the source said, "Sajid has chosen a wiser route. While the shooting with the cast begins in London, all of Sanjus portions will be filmed in Mumbai. So, there are no issues on that front. Sanjay's arrest In April 1993, Sanjay was arrested under TADA and the Arms Act and convicted later for violation of Arms Act for possession of illegal weapons procured from the other accused in the 1993 Bombay bombings. He was sentenced to five years in prison. In March 2013, the Supreme Court upheld his five-year sentence, and after multiple bails, he finally completed his jail term in 2016. More about Son of Sardaar 2 Ajay Devgn and Sanjay Dutt were to be seen as Billu and Jassi respectively in Son of Sardaar 2, with the film reportedly picking up on a fresh note and not from where the first movie ended. The makers were expected to introduce an antagonistic shade to the character played by Sanjay, which will now reportedly be essayed by actor-politician Ravi Kishan. New Delhi, Indian-American filmmaker M Night Shyamalan says he has this belief, perhaps a naive one, that people look forward to new ideas, and the way he likes to get their attention is by doubling down on the "bizarreness" of the stories he is telling. Double down on how weird and different it is: M Night Shyamalan on original ideas in franchise era The director, known for his mastery in suspense and twist endings, has now come up with "Trap", starring Josh Hartnett, Ariel Donaughue, and Shyamalan's daughter Saleka. Warner Bros released "Trap" in India last week. "It is a belief, maybe a naive one, that people are excited to feel something new if we can get to them... I tell my partners, Warner Bros, the thing that's different about the movie is the thing to celebrate about it. Double down on how weird and different it is," Shyamalan told PTI in an interview. "Trap" sees Hartnett playing Cooper Adams, a regular father who is a dreaded serial killer known as 'The Butcher', with Donaughue essaying his teenage daughter Riley. Asked how difficult it is as a filmmaker to make original movies when most of the Hollywood films are franchises or superhero projects with strong IP , the 54-year-old said in such an ecosystem there is no point in making something "usual". "The other aspect is that you need to sell the bizarreness of the new idea and really tell them why this is a new tone. I have an accent in the way I tell stories. Make sure I have that accent. I used to have conversations with the trailer makers. And I would say 'Don't cut it like it's everyone's movie'. You're stealing the thing that's unique about it. And that's our weapon," he added. The Puducherry-born filmmaker, who grew up in Pennsylvania, made his breakthrough in Hollywood with "The Sixth Sense" in 1999, which earned him Oscar nominations for best director and screenplay. He followed it up with hits such as "Unbreakable", "Signs" and "The Village". Then followed a string of poorly reviewed big-budget flops such as "Lady in the Water", "The Happening", "The Last Airbender" and "After Earth". Recalling that lean period in his career, Shyamalan said it made him realise the futility of trying to do it "the way the system wanted". What he did next was something he doesn't recommend to others, but luckily, it worked for him and resurrected his career with "The Visit" . "I wasn't succeeding, I wasn't happy... I was so unhappy that I went like, 'I'm just going to make a movie. I'm not going to ask anybody. I'm just going to go shoot a movie and mortgage the house. Let's see what happens'. "And that started this run, through 'Trap' and 'Servant' and all of it. I do not recommend what I did, by the way. But it gave me a fire and an autonomy, which kind of leads to this hyper original that the audience can feel." In his second innings, the filmmaker has directed "Split", "Glass", "Old" ,"Knock at the Cabin". In "Trap", he has collaborated with musician-daughter Saleka. She plays Lady Raven, a Taylor Swift-like persona, whose concert Cooper is attending with his teenage daughter when he comes to know about the trap set up for him. Is the movie, with its elaborate musical set-up, the closest he has come to directing a Bollywood-like musical? "Saleka would say, it's kind of in our genetics. So, doing an entirely music-based movie feels not as strange as you would think. She talks about that a lot and maybe it's there in my head. It's fascinating. "If I was more fluent in the languages of India, to work from the South... My parents speak Tamil, but if I was more fluent, I would consider doing some version of something. I love it," he said. Asked about his love for strange ideas, Shyamalan said as a storyteller, he just wants "to know what happens" next. "On a gut level, the tone and the angle of the story is exciting to me. When I was younger, I probably couldn't have articulated it the way I just did, which is, there's an idea and then an angle to it. I've come to realise you need both before the ignition goes off." Mostly, the director said, he begins with an idea, and in the case of "Trap", it was about a guy trapped at a concert. "But the angle is you're with him. You're the dad, you love him and you have to figure a way out. That's what made me want to make the movie." His original name, as per internet, is Mec Nelliyattu Shyamalan. How and when 'Night' became a part of it? Shyamalan said he chose his middle name when he was 17 or 18, and got the National Merit Scholarship, a government-funded scholarship given to a few students. "To accept it, I had to be a citizen but I had no middle name. In some ways, I felt like I was inventing myself. I was very much at that time interested in Lakota Indian culture. I read this name . It was actually a woman's name. At the time, it was more about connection to things we don't know and nature, which felt right to me. "Later, when I ended up living in the thriller genre, it felt, coincidentally, tonally right for what I do for a living. But that wasn't the intention. It felt like a moment of 'Hey, this is your second version of yourself'," he said. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text. Billions actor Akili McDowell has been arrested and charged with murder for his involvement in a deadly shooting that took place in Houston on July 20. New York Post reported that according to online records, he was booked on August 1 and charged with theft. On August 2, he was booked with the murder charge. Akili McDowell arrested and charged with murder in connection to deady shooting in Houston (Photo by Willy Sanjuan/Invision/AP, File)(Willy Sanjuan/Invision/AP) The 21-year-old actor is best known for his role in Showtimes Billions, which also starred Damian Lewis and Paul Giamatti. McDowell was also seen in The Astronaut Wives Club, and in the OWN show David Makes Man. Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez previously shared in an update on Facebook, saying, On July 20, 2024, Harris County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to an incident that occurred in the parking lot of an apartment complex at 13503 North Thorntree, near Wallisville and Uvalde (East Harris County). An adult male (possibly in his 20s) sustained gunshot wounds and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Suspect(s) fled the scene, he added. He later added to the post, Homicide Investigators charged Akili McDowell (21) with murder in the shooting death of Cesar Peralta (20). McDowell was recently taken into custody and booked into the Harris County Jail. Gonzalez said that the investigation is ongoing, and urged anyone with information to contact the Homicide Unit at 713-274-9100. It is unclear how McDowell came to be charged. It also remains unknown whether he has an attorney or has entered a plea, and what his connection to the victim was. When Akili McDowell opened up about his role in David Makes Man David Makes Man was created by Oscar winner Tarell Alvin McCraney, and was loosely based on his own life. McDowell starred as the titular character in the series. The actor said in a 2019 interview with Oprah that he landed the role when he was 15. McDowell said David Makes Man shows you can be something. You dont have to settle for what everybody may think youre going to be. You can work to be better. And you can be better. In 2019, McDowell said in an interview with Vulture that he could relate to his character. With David being raised by a single mother and him feeling like he had to be the man of the house at such an early age and make all these grown folks decisions and things like that, Ive also felt like that in my life, he said. He just wants to be there for his mom. She doesnt gotta worry about David. Thats what he wants. Davids gonna do his job; David gonna get things done. And I felt that way in my life as well, he added. McDowells court date is scheduled for August 6 for the theft charge. For the murder charge, the date is October 9. TV host Sarah Ferguson has blasted Ben Affleck as one of her worst interview subjects. This comes one year after she spoke to him about his movie, Air. Sarah Ferguson says Ben Affleck was one of her worst interview guests (ABC News (Australia)) Ferguson told the Sydney Morning Herald that Affleck acted rude and not interested during the interview on Australias 7.30 show. She also said Affleck was going through the motions in March last year, and went on to earn a spot high up on the list of her least favourite interviewees. Notably, Affleck appeared serious during the interview and did not smile. Only four of his answers to Fergusons questions were aired. For most of the interview, Affleck visibly avoided looking at the camera. He was just rude, not interested, going through the motions, Ferguson said. Affleck provided a puzzling answer to Fergusons question about how the film Air, which he starred in, directed and produced, went on to evolve into a story about Michael Jordans family. It happened by my looking at the story and thinking initially, you know, knowing a little bit how these companies work, and knowing about, you know, knowing by instinct it wasnt only white people who worked at this company who were relevant to the story, he said. When Ben Affleck compared doing interviews to land mines Last year, Affleck compared doing interviews to land mines while talking to The Hollywood Reporter last year to promote Air. He made the remark on being asked why he is not on Instagram like Jennifer Lopez. She thinks that because of experiences that Ive had, Ive become very guarded. And shes right. I view these things as land mines, where if you say one wrong thing, your career might be over, said Affleck. I had a really painful experience where I did an interview where I was really vulnerable, and the entire pickup was something that was not only not right, it was actually the opposite of what I meant, he added, reportedly referring to his 2021 interview on The Howard Stern Show. He later alleged that certain comments he made on the show were taken out of context. Meanwhile, TMZ reported that Affleck and Lopez are not on speaking terms any longer amid their divorce rumours. Sources told the outlet that the couples no-contact phase is slowing down their divorce plans. Fans are eagerly awaiting the release of Vikram's upcoming film Thangalaan, which sees him play the leader of a tribal community. The actor recently attended the audio launch of the film, where as per a Pinkvilla report, he talked about the strong sense of connection he felt with the character in the film and how it mirrored his personal experiences. (Also read: Thangalaan trailer: Vikram plays a fierce tribal leader; Malavika Mohanan is a sorceress. Watch) Vikram in a still from Thangalaan What Vikram said During the audio launch, Vikram went emotional as he opened up about his physical struggles and said, In an accident, my leg was broken, and doctors said I would never walk again. I was in the hospital for 3 years and had to undergo 23 surgeries, but due to passion and self-confidence, I bounced back. Vikram's response surprised the other cast members present at the event and left them in awe. More details Meanwhile, co-star Parvathy Thiruvothu also heaped praises on the actor and shared that it was her dream to work with him and she considers him to be the best co-star to have worked with in her career so far. Thangalaan is based on real-life incidents and will explore how the people of KGF saved the mines from the Britishers. The film also explores how the residents came up with ways to avoid exploitation by the colonisers, with the film set pre-Independence in the 19th century. It also stars Malavika Mohannan, Pasupathi, Muthukumar, Hari Krishnan, Preethi, Arjun Prabhakaran, and Hollywood actor Daniel Goldragon. GV Prakash composed the music for the film produced by Studio Green. In addition to Tamil, Thangalaan will be released in Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi. Thangalaan was initially supposed to be released in January and later April this year, but release was postponed and now it will release on August 15. What's the sequel series about? John Wick: Under the High Table is set immediately after the events of John Wick: Chapter 4. The synopsis states, John Wick has left the world of the High Table in a tenuous position and a collection of new characters will look to make a name for themselves while some of the franchise stalwart characters remain committed to the old-world order. It aims combine new and old and thrust the Wick universe into a new age." The series will be written and directed by Robert Levine of The Old Man-fame. He also executive produces the project along with Keanu, Chad, Thunder Road Films. Chad is also attached to direct the pilot episode. Keanu, who doesn't seem to be acting in the series as of now, is involved in the project in a very hands-on capacity. Under the High Table will mark the second series for the franchise, following The Continental: From the World of John Wick, which streamed on Prime Video India last year. Upcoming John Wick projects Upcoming John Wick projects also include the yet-untitled fifth instalment of the franchise, in which Keanu will reprise his iconic role, with Chad attached to direct. The next instalment is a spin-off on Ana de Armas' character Ballerina, set between the third and fourth instalments. John Wick Presents: Ballerina is slated to release in cinemas on June 6, 2025. Donnie Yen's blind assassin Caine, who was introduced in John Wick: Chapter 4, will be the center of a new spin-off. It will "continue Donnie's story arc following the events of John Wick: Chapter 4, as Caine has been freed from his obligations to the High Table. Robert Askins, who's written for Netflix's "The Umbrella Academy," AMC's "The Son" and received a 2015 Tony nomination for his play "Hand to God," is writing the screenplay. After trying his hand at films with Student Of The Year 2 (2019), Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui (2021) and Babli Bouncer (2022), actor Abhishek Bajaj returned to television after six years with the show Jubilee Talkies. Ask him about the comeback and he says, I have always been on television, so it was never like coming back to TV. In these 6 years, I would have said no to about 80-90 shows though as nothing excited me. Abhishek Bajaj on TV actors moving to films TV actors need to take a stand for themselves in films Bajaj joined the list of actors who made a transition from the small to the big screen, but he has complaint with the artistes who make this switch. I have seen many leading actors from the small screen, who are doing great work on TV but go mute in films. Thats the problem. While you are doing great work on TV, you suddenly choose nominal roles in films just for the sake of it. I have seen actors go mute and hardly have dialogues. They need to take a stand for themselves, he shares. TV is still the core of Indian household The big screen is still considered a level up from TV by many, yet he decided to come back to it. Mention that to Bajaj and the 31-year-old says, As an actor, my job is to blur the line between mediums. People who think TV is a lesser medium need to realise that it has a bigger reach. Many film actors have revived their careers on TV, including Amitabh Bachchan ji who did Kaun Banega Crorepati, and it turned into a cult show. Its not a lesser medium anyhow and is still the core of Indian household. But what kept him from working more in films? After Babli Bouncer, I was getting offers on similar lines, and the case was the same after Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui too. People in the industry try to play safe, but I dont function on that principle. I want to explore and evolve, and TV gave me that opportunity with my new show. I wasnt able to utilise my full potential in films and people also wouldnt have had anything new to see in me, he responds. From get-togethers to poolside lazing, there's an uber cool new trend of cocktail called Pina Corona going viral. It is basically a fusion of two familiar flavours: Corona beer and Pina Colada. This breathtakingly refreshing DIY cocktail is a symphony of flavours. Pina Corona is a breathtakingly refreshing DIY cocktail which is a symphony of flavours The Pina Corona's surprising sweet meets refreshing twist is an ideal combination of crisp Mexican beer Corona and traditional sweetness of Puerto Rico's national drink, Pina Colada; made by mixing rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice into an icy beverage. Roku Industry Icon awardee and country's top mixologist, Yangdup Lama, acknowledged the impact of social media in driving the trends in world of mixology. "Social media definitely plays a role in popularising cocktails due to the noise generated," he says. It's certainly trending because it has Corona and additionally is new and experimental, but I'm not sure if it translates well to bars where people have to buy it," Lama remarked on TikTok's latest obsession. Sonali Mullick, Head of Operations and Mixologist at Bayroute and Hitchki explained how the increased awareness and willingness to experiment has pushed the boundaries of cocktail culture. The Pina Corona is an interesting concoction finally getting recognition, all thanks to social media," she says. Bartenders have always loved experimenting with flavors and fusions," she explains, but earlier, they had to wait for adventurous customers. Now, with social media, guests are informed and ready for innovation. What goes behind crafting a perfect Pina Corona: Rum selection: The type of rum plays a vital role in this poolside drink. "A lighter rum is always better," Lama advises. This complements the pineapple and coconut flavours without overpowering them. Sonali Mullick adds, Their mild flavour profile allows the other ingredients to shine. All you have to do is add two ounces of it straight to half a bottle of Corona, then top it off with one ounce of coconut cream and pineapple juice to your preferred sweetness level. Lastly, just tip the bottle upside down and back a few times, covering the top with your thumb, to combine the ingredients without making a frothy mess. Finding the perfect balance: Striking the right balance between sweetness and tartness is key. Lama warns, The ideal ratio between coconut cream and pineapple juice is 1:2, or 1:3 at most." Mullick adds, Usually the thumb rule in Beertails is at least 3 quarters of the Cocktail should be beer. One has to reduce the recipe of the Pina Colada and then add the beer. Add more pineapple juice if you have a sweet tooth. How much pineapple juice is too much: Sonali Mullick explains, In Pina Corona, pineapple juice is mainly substituted with beer. A 60 ml juice is required to keep the flavour intact. Too much of it will make the cocktail too sweet. Do it like a pro: Dry-shake the rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice in a different cocktail tin. Lama advices to mind the alcohol and keep it within 60 ml for a balanced drink along with using good quality ice. The mixture should then be poured into the Corona bottle using a funnel and you're all set to tackle the afternoon heat in style. The Pina Corona might be a social media darling, but beer cocktails, or "beertails" as Sonali Mullick calls them, are nothing new. There are countless other "twisted and fusion cocktails" that bartenders create which are waiting to be discovered. The Union Social Justice and Empowerment ministry on Tuesday said around 453 people have died while cleaning sewers and septic tanks since 2014 despite 732 out of India's 766 districts declaring themselves free from manual scavenging. Union Minister of State, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale said states have made significant strives in improving their mechanisation capabilities by improving access to more than 5,000 standard septic tank vehicles.(PTI) Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale highlighted the states' achievements in a written reply in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, reported news agency PTI. ALSO READ | Deaths due to manual scavenging: CBO gets 24 hrs to respond to show cause notice "As of 31.07.2024, out of 766 districts in the country, 732 districts have reported themselves as manual scavenging free," Athawale said. The states have declared manual scavenging free under the framework of the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013. According to this Act, no person or agency can engage or employ any person for manual scavenging and any person or agency who engages in manual scavenging is punishable with imprisonment up to 2 years or a fine up to one lakh or both. This act defines hazardous cleaning and manual scavenging in specific terms to ensure the safety and dignity of sanitation workers. However, while responding to another question, Athawale said 453 people lost their lives while cleaning sewers and septic tanks since 2014, reported PTI. Athawale said the government approved 371 crore under the Swachh Bharat Mission for the eradication of manual scavenging. These funds will be utilised to acquire advanced machinery and improve their mechanisation in smaller villages, to reduce the reliance on manual labour for sanitation tasks and ensure safer working conditions. ALSO READ | Delhi HC orders 30 lakh compensation to kin of 3 deceased sanitation workers The Union Minister said that states have made significant strides in improving their mechanisation capabilities improving access to more than 5,000 standard septic tank vehicles, 1,100 Hydrovac machines, and 1,000 desilting machines, reported PTI. Advisories have also been issued to provide safety gear to workers, establish helpline facilities for emergency desludging and conduct activities to raise awareness on the issue. (with inputs from PTI) A 45-year-old Central Crime Branch inspector was found dead near his house in Ramanagara district on Monday morning, days after he was suspended and transferred from his previous posting, a police officer said on Monday, suspecting it to be a case of suicide. The incident took place on Sunday night near the officers residence in Kumbalagod (File photo) Bidadi deputy superintendent of police Dinakar Shetty said the incident took place on Sunday night near the officers residence in Kumbalagod. The matter was reported by his neighbours to the Kaggalipura police station who then identified the body. The inspector committed suicide on Sunday night, just 500 metres from the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway. An autopsy was conducted at Rajarajeshwari hospital, and the body has been handed over to his family. The cremation will take place on Tuesday in his native village in Ramanagara district, he said. He further said that the inspector had been working in the Financial Crimes Division of the Bengaluru CCB for just 25 days. Shetty further said that the deceased was previously stationed at the Attibele Police Station from where he was suspended following a firecracker warehouse explosion that resulted in multiple fatalities. The suspension was issued on charges of dereliction of duty, a decision that reportedly left him distraught. He further said that the inspector, following his suspension, used to frequently visit the commissioners office and the director generals office, seeking reinstatement. While no suicide note was discovered at the scene, all possible angles are being explored, including financial distress. Vouchers related to loans were found in the deceaseds pockets, suggesting that debt might have been a contributing factor, he added. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday addressed the Lok Sabha over the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh and its implications on India. During his address, Jaishankar said that there are around 19,000 Indian nationals currently stuck in Bangladesh, out of which 9,000 are students. Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar speaks in the Lok Sabha during the Monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (PTI Photo)(PTI) Further, Jaishankar said that the central government is in constant touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh. He said that the bulk of the Indian students residing in the neighbouring country had returned home in July, when the unrest in Bangladesh took a violent turn. "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there of which about 9000 are students. The bulk of the students returned in July," he said in the Parliament today. The foreign minister also said that India is closely monitoring the the situation with regard to the minorities living in Bangladesh. "We are also monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being. Naturally, we will remain deeply concerned till law and order is restored," the EAM said. On former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina coming to India, Jaishankar said that she had sought approval to arrive in the country at a very short notice. "On August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he said. On Monday, Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh and landed in the Hindon air base in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad amid violence and unrest in her country. The former prime minister met with NSA Ajit Doval and top military officials upon her arrival in India. The Border Security Force (BSF) sounded a high alert on the Indo-Bangladesh border area, and conducted meeting with village heads and military officials in the locality to maintain law and order. (With inputs from ANI) Amid protests in Bangladesh, Air India announced it will operate its evening flights AI237 and AI238 on the Delhi-Dhaka-Delhi route on Tuesday and is offering a one-time waiver for rescheduling flights. An Air India aeroplane at a runway in Hyderabad. (Reuters) Due to the prevailing situation in Dhaka, Air India is offering a one-time waiver on rescheduling to customers, with confirmed bookings on any Air India flight to and from Dhaka between 4th and 7th August 2024, if they desire to do so, said Air India in a post on X (formerly Twitter). The tickets would have to be booked on or prior to 5th August. We would like to reiterate that at Air India, the safety of our customers and crew remains top priority. For more information, please connect with our Contact Centre at 011 69329333 , 011 69329999 or visit our website http://airindia.com, it added. Earlier on Monday, Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule as Bangladesh's prime minister ended as she fled following over a month of deadly protests. The military announced it would form an interim government. Since early July, Hasina had tried to suppress nationwide protests against her government. However, after brutal unrest on Sunday that left nearly 100 people dead, she fled the country. Her exit followed a crackdown on demonstrations that initially protested preferential job quotas but grew into a movement demanding her resignation, resulting in hundreds of deaths. 'India in regular contact with Bangladesh authorities' External affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Tuesday said that India is in regular touch with the authorities in Bangladesh, which is in the grip of a political crisis after its prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country. In his address to the Rajya Sabha, the minister said," In the last 24 hours, we have also been in regular touch with the authorities in Dhaka. This is the situation as of now. I seek the understanding and support of the House in regard to sensitive issues regarding an important neighbour on which there has always been a strong national consensus." External affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Tuesday said that India is in regular touch with the authorities in Bangladesh, which is in the grip of a political crisis after its prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country. In his address to the Rajya Sabha, the minister said," In the last 24 hours, we have also been in regular touch with the authorities in Dhaka. This is the situation as of now. I seek the understanding and support of the House in regard to sensitive issues regarding an important neighbour on which there has always been a strong national consensus." ALSO READ: India reaches out to Dhaka, wants military to restore peace and normalcy External affairs minister S Jaishankar speaks in Rajya Sabha Jaishankar also said that the government is monitoring the situation with respect to the minorities in the neighbouring country. According to local media reports, Hindu temples have been attacked and vandalised in the violence following Hasina's exit. ALSO READ: Sheikh Hasina in shock, says S Jaishankar at all-party meeting There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organizations to ensure their protection and well-being. We welcome that, but will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored. Our border guarding forces have also been instructed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation, he said in his statement. Bangladesh political crisis LIVE updates On developments in Dhaka on Tuesday that led to Sheikh Hasina leaving the country and arriving in India, the minister said,"On 5th August, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign." At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from the Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi, Jaishankar added. In his statement to the House, Jaishankar asserted that the government is in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students. The bulk of students have already returned to India in the month of July on the advice of the High Commission. In terms of our diplomatic presence, in addition to the High Commission in Dhaka, we have Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna and Sylhet. It is our expectation that the host government will provide the required security protection for these establishments. We look forward to their normal functioning once the situation stabilizes, he added. West Bengal leader of opposition and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari met Union home minister Amit Shah to flag the alleged attacks on minority Hindus in Bangladesh, which is in political crisis following the resignation of its prime minister Sheikh Hasina. According to a PTI report, Adhikari was told by Shah that the Narendra Modi government is taking appropriate action in the matter. During the meeting, Adhikari told Shah that the situation in Bangladesh underscored the necessity of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Bangladesh plunged into a major political crisis after 76-year-old Sheikh Hasina fled the country amid heightened protests against her. Following her exit, the protesters vandalised residences, offices and other buildings associated with Hasina's party Awami League and her family. ALSO READ: '9,000 students among 19,000 Indians stuck in Bangladesh': Jaishankar in LS There have been reports of attacks on Hindu community, who constitute eight per cent of Bangladesh's population of 17 crore. The Hindus are said to have historically supported Awami League, founded by Hasina's father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. A soldier stands guard at the vandalised museum of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, father of Sheikh Hasina who resigned as Prime Minister on Monday, in Dhaka, Bangladesh,(AP) The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC) told Reuters that 200-300 mainly Hindu homes and businesses had been vandalised since Monday, and 15-20 Hindu temples damaged. Up to 40 people have been injured though not seriously. Suvendu's jibe at Mamata over CAA Suvendu Adhikari took a jibe at Trinamool Congress, which rules West Bengal, saying that now everybody will have to acknowledge the need for the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA). The CAA, notified in March, allows citizenship for persecuted minorities in the three Muslim-majority countries of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan who arrived in India by December 31, 2014. He also made an apparent reference to migration of Hindus from Bangladesh in the 1971 war, and added that atrocities on Hindus and their temples continue in the neighbouring country. ALSO READ: At short notice, Sheikh Hasina sought approval to come to India: Jaishankar Earlier, external affairs minister S Jaishankar told Parliament,"What was particularly worrying was that minorities, their businesses and temples also came under attack at multiple locations. The full extent of this is still not clear." The government has called for an all-party meeting over the current political situation in Bangladesh on Tuesday, August 6, a day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister and fled the country along with her sister amid a massive protest. Union ministers Amit Shah (not in pic), Rajnath Singh, S Jaishankar, JP Nadda and Opposition leaders Rahul Gandhi and others attend an all-party meeting on the Bangladesh crisis on Tuesday. Top Union ministers, including home minister Amit Shah, defence minister Rajnath Singh, external affairs minister S Jaishankar, and Parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju attended the all-party meeting scheduled for 10am. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi was among the Opposition leaders who attended the meeting. S Jaishankar briefed the all-party meeting and appreciated the unanimous support by all parties. In a post on X, Jaishankar also shared photographs of the meeting at Parliament House. "Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended," Jaishankar posted on the social media platform. Sheikh Hasina resigned from her post in the wake of mounting protests and on Monday evening landed at the Ghaziabad's Hindon Air Base near New Delhi in a C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft. At least 135 people were killed in Bangladesh on Monday during unrest with police firings, mob beatings, and arson across the country, Dhaka Tribune reported. The country announced on Monday that the clashes between demonstrators and members of the Awami League claimed the lives of at least 96 people in police firings. After fighting broke out between police and miscreants on Monday, at least 18 people were slain on the outskirts of the capital in the Savar and Dhamrai regions. Prothom Alo, citing Dhaka Medical College Hospital sources, reported that 500 people were brought to the hospital with various injuries including gunshot wounds. 70 of them have been admitted to hospital. After Hasina left the country, many people entered the Ganabhaban, the residence of the Prime Minister. Bangladeshi local media reported that people were seen decamping with various items from public buildings. A crowd was also noticed inside the Parliament building and people were seen taking things from inside the Parliament building as well. External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday chaired an all-party meeting on the Bangladesh crisis. The meeting was attended by leaders of the ruling National Democratic Alliance and senior Opposition leaders, including the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi. LoP in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, Congress leader KC Venugopal and DMK MP TR Baalu leave after an all-party meeting.(PTI) What happened inside the all-party meeting? According to S Jaishankar, all the parties unanimously supported the government over the situation in Bangladesh. In a post on X, he also shared photographs of the meeting at Parliament House. Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended, S Jaishankar posted on the social media platform. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security on the issue on Monday. What Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi said at the meeting? Senior Congress MP Rahul Gandhi raised concerns about the future of India's foreign policy, particularly in light of the recent events in Bangladesh. He, however, expressed his support for the measures taken by the government in the national interest. He also questioned whether foreign forces were involved in the incident, reported ANI. He said the status of minorities there remains a significant concern, with reports of attacks on their properties. What happened in Bangladesh? Sheikh Hasina resigned as the prime minister of Bangladesh and fled Dhaka in a military aircraft. This was after her security team raised concerns about her safety in the country. She landed at Ghaziabad's Hindon air base and was at a safe house. Sheikh Hasina's government had been facing violent protests for weeks over quotas in government jobs to select groups that backed her. Hundreds of students and security personnel died in the clashes. The country's army announced that an interim government will be formed soon. With inputs from PTI, ANI Sheikh Hasina resignation: External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday told Parliament that he was deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored in neighbouring Bangladesh, a day after the ouster of prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Sheikh Hasina and father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.( Bangladesh Awami League) S Jaishankar also gave the first official confirmation Sheikh Hasina was in India where she fled to on Monday as protesters stormed her palace. In a statement to Rajya Sabha, the EAM also briefed the MPs on former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's very short notice request to come to India for the moment. Also Read | India reaches out to Dhaka, wants military to restore peace and normalcy He said India has instructed its border guarding forces to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex and still evolving situation in the neighbouring country. Sheikh Hasina, 76, who ruled the Banglasdesh with an iron fist for 15 years, resigned as the prime minister following massive protests that initially began as an agitation against a job quota scheme but weeks later morphed into a mass movement demanding her ouster from power. The controversial quota system provided for 30 per cent reservations in civil services jobs for the families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. When India gave shelter to Sheikh Hasina and family On August 15, 1975, Sheikh Hasina's father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, was brutally assassinated along with 18 members of her family, nearly four years after assuming the presidency of the newly formed country. The tragic incident sent shockwaves throughout Bangladesh, plunging the nation into political turmoil and military rule. At the time, Sheikh Hasina was in West Germany with her husband, MA Wazed Miah. With no other options, they sought refuge in India, a country that had played a crucial role in Bangladesh's 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan. Under the leadership of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, India extended a helping hand to Sheikh Hasina, providing her with security and shelter. "Mrs. Indira Gandhi immediately sent information that she wanted to give us security and shelter... We decided to come back here (Delhi) because we had in our mind that if we went to Delhi, from Delhi, we'd be able to go back to our country. And then we'll be able to know how many members of the family are still alive," Sheikh Hasina recounted in a 2022 interview, reflecting on the moments after Mujibur Rahman's assassination. After leaving Germany, Sheikh Hasina, along with her family, including her two young children, was initially placed in a secure house in New Delhi, living under tight security due to fears for their lives. She described her time in Delhi as being a secret resident. Upon arriving in Delhi, Sheikh Hasina met Indira Gandhi and learned about the killing of 18 members of her family. She (Indira Gandhi) made all the arrangements for us. A job for my husband and the Pandara Road house. We stayed there, she told news agency ANI in 2022. Sheikh Hasina's bonding with Pranab Mukherjee During this time, Hasina developed close relationships with Indian leaders, including Congress leader Pranab Mukherjee and the Gandhi family. Her stay in India not only provided her safety but also allowed her to form connections that would later play a pivotal role in her political career. In Delhi, Hasina initially resided at 56 Ring Road, Lajpat Nagar-3, before moving to a house on Pandara Road in Lutyens' Delhi. Hasina still remembers those days and remains grateful to India and the Gandhi family. She frequently meets members of the Gandhi family whenever she visits India. After six years, on May 17, 1981, Hasina returned to Bangladesh, where she was elected in absentia as the general secretary of the Awami League. Sharmistha Mukherjee, Pranab's daughter, writes in her book 'Pranab, My Father' about the bond which then developed between Hasina and the Mukherjees, The Week reported. They soon became a part of our family and would be there for all family occasions like birthdays, get-togethers and annual picnics, writes Sharmistha Mukherjee. Apart from a select few family friends, no one knew the true identity of Hasina and her kin. Suvra, Pranab's wife, would introduce Hasina to strangers as her sister. I used to wonder why she addressed my father as dada (elder brother) and my mother as didi (elder sister), and not boudithe appropriate form of address for an elder brothers wife. As she was supposed to be my mothers sister for strangers, this subterfuge was perhaps adopted to ward off any unwanted attention and suspicion. Even after so many years, she became emotional talking about Ma. After returning to Bangladesh at the end of her exile, she would send exquisite Dhakai Jamdani sarees for Ma and for all the female members of the family. Ma would always reciprocate, she adds. Congress leaders on Tuesday slammed Nishikant Dubey for his attack on the Gandhi family, as they said Priyanka Gandhi Vadra didn't attend Anant Ambani's wedding and the BJP MP's claims regarding this were "blatant lies". A group of porters (Coolie) during a meeting with Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, in New Delhi. (ANI file photo) Participating in a debate on the Finance Bill in the Lok Sabha, Dubey had claimed that a member of the Gandhi family attended the recent wedding of industrialist Mukesh Ambani's son Anant Ambani. Congress leader Supriya Shrinate warned the BJP leader that action will be taken against him if he doesn't apologise. Supriya Shrinate claimed the BJP MP was addicted to lying. She said Priyanka Gandhi Vadra didn't attend the wedding. "BJP MP Nishikant Dubey lied about Priyanka Gandhi ji that she attended Ambani wedding. She did not attend at all. This man is addicted to lying, but this is also a matter of privilege. Apologize by holding your ears, otherwise, action will be taken against you, she wrote on X. Also read: First visuals of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Paris with the rest of the Ambanis Congress leader KC Venugopal refuted Dubey's claim in the Lok Sabha and questioned the chair for allowing the BJP leader to make such remarks. He was supported by NCP (SCP) MP Supriya Sule. Supriya Sule accused the BJP of creating false narratives and maligning families. "There is nothing wrong in attending a wedding but let us not create fake narratives. The problem with the BJP is that it creates fake narratives and maligns families. It has maligned my family as well... Do you even think what families go through?" she asked. Senior Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi didn't attend the opulent wedding. However, many Opposition and ruling party leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, attended the function. With inputs from PTI The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday filed its first 100-page supplementary charge sheet in a Delhi court naming former railway minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, his son, and former Bihar deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav, and eight others as accused in the money laundering case related to the alleged land-for-jobs scam. Former railway minister Lalu Prasad Yadav and former Bihar deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav. (PTI) Special public prosecutor Manish Jain and advocate Ishaan Baisla informed the court that the charge sheet is accompanied by 96 relied-upon documents. Vishal Gogne, the special judge, listed the matter for hearing the arguments regarding consideration of the charge sheet on August 13. In its earlier charge sheet filed in January, ED named former Bihar chief minister Rabri Devi, her daughters Misa Bharti, a member of Parliament, and Hema Yadav as well as businessman Amit Katyal and former railway employee Hridayanand Chaudhary as accused. The ED initiated the probe in the case based on a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) first information report (FIR) alleging aspirants were allegedly told to transfer land as a bribe in return for jobs when Lalu Prasad Yadav was the railway minister from 2004- 2009. Lalu Prasad Yadav and his family members were also named as accused in the CBIs predicate offence case. The court granted them bail in the CBI case, saying they should not be arrested before the charge sheet was filed. The ED arrested Katyal in November 2023. He has been under judicial custody since. Katyals bail plea is pending before the Delhi high court. ED has claimed that A K Infosystems and A B Exports, the two companies named as accused in the alleged scam, were formed to benefit the Yadav family. It alleged the company A K Infosystems bought 11 land parcels. The agency said the value of the firms assets was 1.89 crores but was transferred to the Yadav family members for 1 lakh. It claimed the land parcels were bought in exchange for providing jobs in Group D categories in the railways and that they were acquired at locations adjacent to land that the family members owned. ED said A B Exports generated 5 crore through sham transactions. It alleged that Tejaswi Yadav purchased the company with the money received from Katyal. ED pointed out that the alleged proceeds of crime generated by selling three land parcels of Devi and two of Hema Yadav to a company, 1 crore was given to Tejaswi Yadav and it infused in A B Exports. An encounter is underway between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district. The J&K Police said there could be 3-4 terrorists.(HT file) After specfic input was gleaned regarding movement in the area, a SADO was launched in the wee hours today by our parties; contact has been established with a group of terrorists in Khaned area of PS Basantgarh. Ops underway, Mohammed Rayees Bhat, deputy inspector general (DIG) Udhampur-Reasi, said. Operations launched on Tuesday morning and contact with terrorists established around 5 pm. We believe there are three to four terrorists, he added. In April this year, a village defence guard was killed in a gunfight with terrorists in the Dudu area of Basantgarh. ALSO READ: Jammu targeted to ease pressure in Kashmir, Ladakh: Experts On Sunday, security forces nabbed three terror associates in Anantnag, recovering arms and ammunition. According to the statement, the terrorist associates were held during a naka-checking operation conducted by Anantnag police, in collaboration with 1 Rashtriya Rifle (RR) and 90 Battalion Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) at Hassanpura Tulkhan Road. ALSO READ: Ex-Pakistan armymen, trained terrorists may be behind attacks in Jammu: Intel officials "During the operation, security forces recovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition from their possession, including One pistol, One pistol magazine, Eight pistol rounds, One grenade, and One Improvised Explosive Device (IED)," PTI quoted the statement as saying. Terror spike in Jammu The terror-related incidents have witnessed a spike amid the Union territory gearing up for assembly elections in September. J&K last held an assembly election way back in 2014. The Jammu region has been rattled with terror attacks including the one on a bus carrying pilgrims in Reasi on June 9. The 53-seater bus, on its way from the Shiv Khori temple to Katra, veered off the road following the barrage of gunfire by terrorists and fell into a deep gorge near the Teryath village of the Poni area. On August 3, the Jammu and Kashmir administration sacked six government employees, including five policemen, for their "deep involvement in anti-national activities", PTI quoted officials. J-K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha invoked Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution to terminate them from service, they said. (With agency inputs) The tourism industry in Kodagu, a popular hill station near Bengaluru, has been impacted this year due to heavy rains and landslides, people familiar with the matter said. The adverse weather conditions have caused a sharp decline in tourism in Kodagu. (HT) Thousands of tourists typically visit Kodagu during the monsoon season to enjoy its lush landscapes. However, the adverse weather conditions have caused a sharp decline in tourism, resulting in substantial financial losses for local businesses. At least 1,50,000 to 2,00,000 tourists visit the district every month. During weekends, Dasara, and summer holidays, the number increases to 10,000-15,000 per day. There are no current restrictions on entry to tourist spots, but tourist numbers are noticeably down this year, with a more than 50% drop in visitors, a tourism department official in Madikeri told HT. Kodagu, situated just 250 kilometres from Bengaluru, is a favourite getaway for residents of the city and other parts of Karnataka. In light of the heavy rains, the district administration has restricted access to popular tourist spots such as the Dubare Elephant Camp, Abbey Falls, and other attractions. Night traffic has also been banned on the Madikeri-Mangaluru national highway. These measures have forced tourists who had booked tickets and accommodations to cancel their plans. Home stays, hotels, and lodges are among the worst affected by the Wayanad landslides. I own a 14-room accommodation in my homestay, but in the past month, I havent even reached 10% of bookings, Rohan Chinnappa, owner of Village World Homestay in Madikeri, said. Every August, residents of the hilly regions face anxiety, especially after the 2018 and 2019 landslide tragedies that affected thousands in the district. This year, heavy rain lashed after the second half of July, but the fear in August remains, he added. In 2018, more than 18,000 people living in the hilly regions of Kodagu were affected by landslides and floods, resulting in over 20 fatalities and 1,000 families losing their homes. Another hotel owner, N Bhaskar in Kushalnagar, said: Bookings have been cancelled due to heavy rains and the temporary banning of entry to some tourist spots. Although the situation has improved and there is no ban on tourists now, many are still wary of visiting due to fears of landslides after seeing the Wayanad tragedy. Were getting just 25% of bookings this month, whereas last year, we had 60-70% occupancy. Tourists usually love to visit waterfalls during the rainy season. It will take another month for the tourism industry to return to normalcy, he said. In response to the recent landslide in Wayanad, the Kodagu district administration has proactively identified potential danger zones. An extensive analysis by the Indian Geospatial Department has pinpointed 104 landslide-prone areas within the district. As a precautionary measure, the administration has issued notices to 2,995 families residing in these high-risk regions, urging them to relocate to safer areas. The identification process was carried out based on comprehensive disaster reports and surveys. Both sensitive and ultra-sensitive locations were scrutinised before finalising the families that need to be relocated. To facilitate this large-scale undertaking, 14 relief centres have been established, accommodating more than 200 residents seeking refuge. Plans are also underway to set up an additional 95 relief centres across disaster-prone areas. We will take prompt action to evacuate residents from landslide-prone zones as per rain forecasts, Kodagu deputy commissioner Venkat Raja said. Chandigarh, Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Tuesday accused the BJP government in Haryana of making "baseless" announcements which it cannot implement on the ground, saying buying all crops at MSP is also one of them. Hooda slams Haryana govt over 'buying all crops at MSP' announcement Hooda's remarks came after Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday announced that the state government would buy 10 more crops at minimum support price and the state cabinet on Monday gave its approval in this regard. The Haryana government is already buying 14 crops at MSP. Leader of Opposition Hooda said the BJP has become "so nervous" that it is unable to understand anything after seeing "a clear defeat" in the upcoming assembly elections, which are due later this year. "The government is constantly making baseless announcements which it cannot implement on the ground. The announcement of giving MSP on all crops is also one of them," Hooda alleged in a statement. The former CM said while announcing MSP on all crops, the BJP government even forgot that the MSP is announced by the Centre. "It is not in the jurisdiction of the state government. The state government also announced such crops which are not grown in Haryana," he said. "The truth is that the central government has not mentioned giving a legal guarantee to MSP anywhere in this year's budget, nor has it made any provision for it in the budget. Then on what basis is the state government making such an announcement," Hooda questioned. If the BJP is serious about MSP, then the central government should immediately bring a bill in Parliament to give a legal guarantee to MSP, he said, adding attempts to "mislead" farmers through mere verbal promises will not succeed. Hooda alleged that the BJP made the farmers yearn for MSP during its entire tenure. "Every time farmers had to take to the streets to get the price of crops including wheat, paddy, sunflower, millet, maize, and mustard. There has not been a single season in which the farmers have not had to stage protests," he alleged. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text. New Delhi, Leaders of the INDIA bloc are likely to hold a meeting in the national capital this week, sources said on Tuesday. INDIA bloc leaders likely to hold meeting in Delhi this week It would the first major meeting of the opposition bloc since the results of the Lok Sabha polls were announced on June 4. The last meeting of the INDIA bloc was held on June 1, ahead of the election results. The Trinamool Congress had not attended the meeting as several seats in West Bengal were going to polls on the day. The TMC will be present in the upcoming meet, a source said. While the date for the meeting is not finalised yet, several top opposition leaders are already in Delhi for the ongoing Parliament session. Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray also arrived here on Tuesday, and is expected to meet key opposition leaders. Maharashtra is going to the polls in a couple of months along with Haryana, and the Opposition is hopeful of snatching the two states from the BJP following its good show in the Lok Sabha elections in these states. The INDIA bloc, which has a strength of 234 MPs in the Lok Sabha against the 293 of the National Democratic Alliance, has been putting up a united front against the government in Parliament. On Tuesday, INDIA bloc MPs staged a protest at the gate of the Parliament building demanding the government to withdraw 18 per cent GST on life and health insurance premiums. They had also staged a protest together on the first day of the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha while holding copies of the Constitution. A united opposition had also forced an election for the post of Lok Sabha Speaker, with Congress K Suresh challenging Om Birla for the position. Birla was elected through voice vote, and the opposition did not press for voting. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text. INDIA bloc MPs staged a big protest at the gate of the Parliament building on Tuesday demanding reduction in the 18% GST on life and health insurance premiums. The protest, attended by both leaders of the opposition Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, was staged hours before the discussion started on the Finance Bill. Lok Sabha leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi and INDIA bloc MPs protest in the Parliament complex on Tuesday. (ANI Photo) NCP(SP) faction head Sharad Pawar, who usually doesnt participate in such demonstrations, joined the protests, giving a fillip to the agitation. Opposition leaders claimed that the GST rate was quietly increased to 18% and must be reduced to benefit the middle class. The Opposition, which has staged joint protests on larger issues, for the first time came together against GST rates on a particular service, given the importance of insurance for middle class and lower middle class. The government must reduce 18% GST on medical and health insurances. This has been there since July 2017 and has gone unnoticed. It should be reduced because it is burning the middle class. The high tax of 18% is a burden for the middle class, Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha leader Derek OBrien said. The opposition MPs carried banners and posters in seven other languages apart from English. Opposition leaders also pointed out that even Union transport minister Nitin Gadkari had written to finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman to reconsider the 18% tax on insurance services. Last month, Gadkari wrote to Sitharaman saying, You are requested to consider the suggestion of withdrawal of GST on life and medical insurance premium on priority as it becomes cumbersome for the senior citizens. He cited a memorandum of the Nagpur Divisional Life Insurance Corporation Employees Union on the issue. OBrien said only 4% of the people have insurance and among them 75% have life insurance. Two MPs have raised the demand. Our chief minister has also written a letter on this. At least the FM should listen to the cabinet minister who has written to her. When we write, the FM will say, I cant do GST Council has to decide. In GST council, NDA to INDIA ratio is 2:1. We must not allow FM to hide behind GST curtain, he said. Former Bangladesh premier Sheikh Hasina decided to quit after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment on Monday and sought approval to come to India for the moment, external affairs minister S Jaishankar informed Parliament on Tuesday. External affairs minister S Jaishankar addresses the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. (PTI Photo) Jaishankar, who made a suo motu statement in Rajya Sabha on the developments in Bangladesh, said the Indian government is deeply concerned about the status of Bangladeshs minority communities following reports of attacks on their businesses and temples at multiple locations. The EAM welcomed initiatives by various groups and organisations to protect minorities. While detailing the events that led up to Hasinas dramatic resignation on Monday following several weeks of violent protests, Jaishankar revealed that the Indian government had repeatedly counselled restraint and urged that the situation be diffused through dialogue. Jaishankars statement was the first official word from the government on the situation in Bangladesh, where army chief General Waker-uz-Zaman has assumed responsibility for running the country and said an interim government will be formed. On August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign, Jaishankar said. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday [Monday] evening in Delhi. Jaishankar said the situation took a very serious turn on August 4, as attacks on police stations and government installations intensified and overall levels of violence greatly escalated and properties of individuals associated with the ruling Awami League party were torched across Bangladesh. He said, What was particularly worrying was that minorities, their businesses and temples also came under attack at multiple locations. The full extent of this is still not clear. The Indian side is monitoring the status of Bangladeshs minorities. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being. We welcome that but will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored, he added. Jaishankar said there was considerable tension, deep divides and growing polarization in Bangladesh politics since the election in January this year, which gave Hasina an unprecedented fourth consecutive term as prime minister. This underlying foundation aggravated a student agitation that started in June this year. There was growing violence, including attacks on public buildings and infrastructure, as well as traffic and rail obstruction. The violence continued through the month of July, he said. Throughout this period, we repeatedly counselled restraint and urged that the situation be diffused through dialogue. Similar urgings were made to various political forces with whom we were in touch, he said. Though the protests were launched by students against a controversial quota in government jobs and the quota was struck down by Bangladeshs Supreme Court on July 21, Jaishankar acknowledged that various decisions and actions taken thereafter by Hasinas government only exacerbated the situation. The agitation at this stage coalesced around a one-point agenda, that is that the Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, should step down, he said. The situation in Bangladesh is still evolving, and the Indian side is in close touch with the Indian community through its diplomatic missions. There were an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals, including about 9,000 students, in Bangladesh. The bulk of the students, however, have already returned to India in...July on the advice of the high commission, he said. India expects authorities in Bangladesh to provide the required security to the high commission in Dhaka and the assistant high commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna and Sylhet. We look forward to their normal functioning once the situation stabilises, he said. Indias border guarding forces have been directed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation, and New Delhi has been in regular touch with authorities in Dhaka in the past 24 hours, Jaishankar said. I seek the understanding and support of the House in regard to sensitive issues regarding an important neighbour, on which there has always been strong national consensus, he said. Airlines are set to resume operations to and from Bangladesh on Wednesday, a day after it cancelled flights following Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasinas resignation amid a crisis in the neighbouring country. Air India, IndiGo and Vistara had cancelled its operations in Bangladesh on Tuesday. (PTI Photo) Air India, IndiGo and Vistara had cancelled its operations in Bangladesh on Tuesday. However, Air India had operated AI 238 on the Dhaka-Delhi route on Tuesday evening that is expected to land around 11.30pm. Air India will operate its evening flights AI237/238 on the Delhi-Dhaka-Delhi sector on August 6. In addition to that, due to the prevailing situation in Dhaka, Air India is offering a one-time waiver on reschedules to customers with confirmed bookings on any Air India flight to and from Dhaka between August 4th and 7th, if they desire to do so. The tickets would have to be booked on or prior to August 5. We would like to reiterate that at Air India, the safety of our customers and crew remains top priority, the airline spokesperson said. IndiGo and Vistara, too, said they will operate flights as per schedule on Wednesday. Air India operates two daily flights from Delhi to Dhaka, IndiGo flies daily from Dhaka to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata and Vistara operates one daily flight to Mumbai and thrice a week to Delhi from Dhaka. Dhakas Hazrat Shahjalal International airport was closed for operations till 11.30pm on Monday. However, airport security was cleared on Tuesday morning, thus flight operations could resume on Wednesday. Train services to Bangladesh continue to remain cancelled indefinitely. Washington: The US administrations approach to the Indo-Pacific, in terms of creating an integrated network of relationships, deepening partnerships, and connecting allies in the European and Indo-Pacific theatres, is one of the most important and least told stories of the Joe Biden presidency, Americas three senior-most national security officials have argued. Blinken, Austin and Sullivan claimed that American standing was among the lowest in the region when Biden took office. (Reuters) In a rare joint piece in The Washington Post, the US secretary of state Antony J Blinken, secretary of defence Lloyd Austin, and national security advisor Jake Sullivan, also cited, among other achievements, the elevation of Quad and the US and India investing together across the sectors that will shape the future from semiconductors, to artificial intelligence, to clean energy. The piece Bidens Indo-Pacific diplomacy has made Americas future more secure was published late Monday. All the achievements that the three top policymakers of the administration cited have a clear subtext of building deterrence against China, reducing economic dependence on China, and ensuring that the US and its friends have a technological edge over China. After outlining the importance of the region, Blinken, Austin and Sullivan claimed that when Biden took office, American standing was among the lowest in the region, with allies and partners fearing that US was becoming an unreliable friend, and China was stepping in to take advantage of US absence and advance its own vision of the world, a vision hostile to US interests. The piece then outlines three core achievements of the Biden presidency, as its top architects see it. The first, they claimed, was upgrading the hub and spoke model of diplomacy with an integrated, interconnected network of partnerships, which meant moving from separate bilateral relationships to bringing partners together. Offering concrete examples, Blinken, Austin, and Sullivan cited the Australia-United Kingdom-US (AUKUS) security partnership; the Camp David trilateral bringing Japan and South Korea, two historical antagonists, together; and the first US-Japan-Philippines trilateral. We elevated the regional grouping known as the Quad Australia, India, Japan, and the United States to deliver hundreds of millions of lifesaving coronavirus vaccines, mobilize millions of dollars in digital-infrastructure investments, and advance the global clean energy transition. We created the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity with 13 other partners to ensure we are meeting the economic challenges of today and not two decades ago, such as building secure supply chains and protecting our critical technologies, the three officials wrote. India is also a member of IPEF. They also cited the hosting of ASEAN and Pacific Islands Forum as instances of this integrated partnership model. The second achievement they claimed revolved around deepening partnerships to confront shared challenges. To substantiate this argument, Blinken, Austin, and Sullivan cited Japans decision to modernise its defence which they said will help US and regional security; South Koreas decision to step up investment in Southeast Asia that will help supply chains; Australias decision to help Pacific Islands become more resilient (both to climate change and to economic coercion from China); Philippines decision to modernise and integrate its military with US (making them more capable of standing up to bullying from China in the South China Sea); and the decision to modernise the US command in Japan. It was against this backdrop that the officials mentioned ties with India. India and the United States are investing together across the sectors that will shape the future from semiconductors, to artificial intelligence, to clean energy. And finally, Blinken, Austin, and Sullivan cited connecting US allies in Europe and Indo-Pacific as a major achievement, citing the support of Asian allies for Ukraine and European allies increasingly standing together to hold China accountable for supporting Vladimir Putins war machine and undermining the international rules-based order. The piece comes even as the US faces continued setbacks in its diplomacy in West Asia as the Israeli brutality against Palestinians in Gaza continues and the conflict threats to assume a wider regional dimension with an imminent Iranian offensive against Israel in some form, in response to Israels offensive action of assassinating a Hamas leader in Tehran. It also comes at a time when the fate of Ukraine, another key Biden administration priority, remains uncertain as Russia consolidates its gains and waits for a possible change in administration in Washington given Donald Trumps seeming willingness to do a deal. While tensions in the Indo-Pacific have deepened, the Biden administrations top policy minds clearly see their China strategy as a big success at a time when Biden is slowly beginning to mark the end of his presidency. Nobel-winning microfinance pioneer Muhammad Yunus will head Bangladeshs interim government, the press secretary of President Mohammed Shahabuddin. Abedin told AP on Tuesday, after consultations with student leaders who spearheaded protests that forced former premier Sheikh Hasina out of office. Anti-government protestors wave Bangladesh's national flag as they celebrate at Shahbag area, near Dhaka university in Dhaka on August 5, 2024.(AFP) Soon after Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday, Bangladesh Army chief Gen Waker-uz-Zaman took on the responsibility of running the country and said an interim government would be formed shortly. There has been no clarity from the military on when this set-up would be created or who would lead it. Yunus, 84, who is in Paris for a medical procedure, told AFP in a written statement he was honoured by the trust of the protesters who wanted him to lead the interim government. He also called for free elections to ensure enduring peace. If action is needed in Bangladesh, for my country and for the courage of my people, then I will take it, said Yunus, known as the banker to the poorest of the poor for pioneering micro-credit schemes through the Grameen Bank that helped lift millions out of poverty. The interim government is only the beginning, he said. Lasting peace will only come with free elections. Without elections, there will be no change. Yunus said the youth of Bangladesh had voiced their need for change and Hasina had heard them by leaving the country. Though acclaimed abroad, Yunus faced more than 100 criminal cases and was put on trial by Hasinas government. He maintained the charges were politically motivated. The government forced Yunus out of Grameen Bank five years after he and the institution received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006. He was constantly hounded by the government and Hasina repeatedly launched attacks on him. On Tuesday, leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, who led protests against Hasina in recent weeks, demanded that Yunus should head the interim government. Nahid Islam, a national coordinator of the movement, said in a video posted on social media: No government other than the one proposed by the students will be accepted. As we have said, no military government or one backed by the military or a government of fascists, will be accepted. People close to Yunus told the media he had spoken to the student leaders and would return to Bangladesh immediately after the procedure in Paris. A 13-member team of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement held discussions with President Mohammed Shahabuddin and the three service chiefs, including Gen Waker-uz-Zaman, on Tuesday evening on forming the interim government. The students were accompanied by Asif Nazrul, a professor of Dhaka University and a critic of the Hasina government who has considerable influence among the protesters. The discussions began at 6pm Bangladesh time and continued late into the evening, local media reports said. Read Here: Jaishankar briefs all-party meeting on Bangladesh, assures border situation not alarming People familiar with developments in Dhaka said that while the military could be amenable to the idea of Yunus heading the interim government, the Jamaat-e-Islami and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) are unlikely to accept the economist in a key role. The Jamaat and BNP were among the parties the Bangladesh army chief consulted on Monday regarding the formation of a caretaker regime. Meanwhile, the president on Tuesday dissolved the Parliament formed after the general election in January. A statement from the presidents office said the decision was made following Shahabuddins discussions with the three service chiefs, leaders of political parties and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and representatives of civil society. A separate statement from the presidents office said former premier and BNP chief Khaleda Zia had been released after years of house arrest. Zia, 78, served as premier from 1991 to 1996 and was imprisoned in 2018 for corruption, though she maintained the charges were politically motivated. Bangladeshi authorities also prevented several leaders of Hasinas Awami League party from leaving the country. Former foreign minister Hasan Mahmud and former minister of state for IT Zunaid Ahmed Palak were detained at Dhakas international airport while attempting to travel to India, local media reported. Prothom Alo, a leading Bengali daily, reported that the homes, places of worship and businesses of the Hindu minority were attacked in different parts of Bangladesh on Monday. Hindu temples were attacked in Dhaka, Natore, Shariatpur and Faridpur while homes were targeted in Jessore, Noakhali, Meherpur, Chandpur and Khulna, the report said. About 40 shops owned by Hindus were vandalised in Dinajpur, and a place of worship of the Ahmadiyya minority in Rangpur was also vandalised, it said. India has offered help to former Bangladesh premier Sheikh Hasina, who fled to the country on Monday, and will take necessary steps if the situation in the neighbouring nation deteriorates, the government informed an all-party meeting on Tuesday. EAM S Jaishankar briefing an all-party meeting on Tuesday on the Bangladesh crisis. (Photo from X) Leaders of key political parties who attended the meeting held behind closed doors were told by a team of ministers that the army was put on high alert and security enhanced along the border with Bangladesh, people aware of the discussions said on condition of anonymity. The meeting was convened to discuss developments in Bangladesh following the dramatic collapse of the Sheikh Hasina government. The opposition parties indicated they will stand by the governments decision-making in confronting the crisis, the people said. Home minister Amit Shah, defence minister Rajnath Singh, external affairs minister S Jaishankar, health minister JP Nadda and parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju were part of the government team that participated in the meeting, which was also attended by leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi. Jaishankar spoke on all possible impacts on India of the developments in Bangladesh, and about New Delhis strategy for coping with any interference from outside, the people said. He described the current situation at the India-Bangladesh border as not alarming, they said. The people said Gandhi asked whether the government has information on the future plans of Hasina, who arrived at Hindon airbase near Ghaziabad in a Bangladesh Air Force aircraft on Monday afternoon, hours after she resigned and fled Dhaka. Gandhi also asked about the governments short-term strategy and expressed concern about possible infiltration. He also asked if any foreign forces, particularly China, were linked to the disturbance in Bangladesh, they said. Jaishankar said the Indian side has spoken to Hasina on her future course of action, but it couldnt be disclosed at the moment, the people said. The government side pointed out that Pakistani diplomats had changed their display pictures on social media to indicate their support to the uprising that ousted Hasina, the people said. Jaishankar also told the meeting that there is the possibility of the formation of an interim government in Dhaka, the people said. New Delhi is in touch with the Bangladesh Army and the Indian Army has been alerted and steps have been taken to ensure the safety and security of the country, the meeting was told. Bangladesh Army chief General Waker-uz-Zaman and President Mohammed Shahabuddin both announced on Monday an interim government will be formed to run the country but there is still no clarity on when this set-up will be created or who will head it. Hasinas Awami League party was not among the political parties consulted by Zaman regarding the formation of a caretaker administration. Another area of focus for the Indian side is ensuring the safety of some 10,000 Indians who are in Bangladesh. There were about 19,000 Indians, including 8,000 students, in Bangladesh when the protests began. Most of the students have returned. The people quoted Jaishankar as saying that there were reports of minority communities being attacked in Bangladesh and their properties and assets being destroyed. He said appropriate steps will be taken to ensure the safety of minorities, according to the people. Among those who attended the all party meeting were Congress leader KC Venugopal, TR Baalu of the DMK, Lallan Singh of the JD-U, Ram Gopal Yadav of the Samajwadi Party, Sudip Bandyopadhyay and Derek OBrien of the Trinamool Congress, Misa Bharti of the RJD, Arvind Sawant of Shiv Sena (UBT), Sasmit Patra of the Biju Janata Dal, Supriya Sule of the NCP-SP, and Ram Mohan Naidu of the TDP. OBrien said the TMC told the Union government to keep the state government in West Bengal, which shares a long border with Bangladesh, informed about developments. We told them to keep us and the West Bengal chief minister in the loop since we have to absorb the pressure, he said. Though the opposition didnt demand a statement from the PM, an opposition leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the PM should have been present at the meeting. In 1971, when Bangladesh was liberated, Indira Gandhi, the then PM, addressed the all-party meeting and Atal Bihari Vajpayee had attended, he said. He questioned the governments decision of not inviting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for the meeting. AAP is the third largest party in the Rajya Sabha with 10 MPs and it has three lawmakers in the Lok Sabha. Sanjay Singh, a Rajya Sabha MP of AAP, told reporters the government shouldnt have excluded them from the meeting. Speaking outside Parliament, Singh said: He (Jaishankar) explained the situation there and, because in such circumstances, we have to support the government and since it is a matter related to national security, we didnt raise any queries. Whatever his statement was, the opposition listened to it carefully. But the biggest regret is, will politics prevail even on matters of national security? Singh said likes and dislikes cant be the basis for inviting parties for such meetings. When it is about national security, then it doesnt matter which party the PM is happy with and which party PM is unhappy with...they have to take everybody along, he said. RJDs Misa Bharti said the all-party meeting was a platform to convey concern about Indians in Bangladesh. We are concerned about the safety of our people there and our party wants efforts to be made to secure the border, she said. A second person privy to the meeting said some opposition MPs conveyed their concerns about social media posts stoking unrest and violence and told Jaishankar that incendiary posts shouldnt be allowed on such platforms. He was told there is a need to stop hate on social media, the person said. A 24-year-old man was hacked to death allegedly by his wifes relatives and others over their interfaith marriage in Devbhumi Dwarka district of Gujarat, police said on Monday, adding six people have been arrested and a minor detained in connection with the suspected hate crime. Man killed by wifes kin over interfaith marriage A senior police officer said that a case for the offence of mob lynching was registered at the Bhanvad police station under section 103 (2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) based on a complaint from the victims mother. The incident occurred on Sunday in Shedhakhai village and the deceased was identified as Yagnik Dudhrejiya, a local resident, police said. Dudhrejiya was allegedly assaulted with sticks and axes by the accused, following which he was rushed to a government hospital in Jamnagar, where he succumbed to his injuries on Sunday evening, they added. The victim, who belonged to the Sadhu caste, had married a Muslim woman. The accused, all Muslims, were involved in the murder due to the interfaith marriage, superintendent of police (SP) Nitesh Pandey told HT over the phone. The police arrested six men and detained a juvenile in connection with the murder, the SP said. Further investigations are on. According to the complaint filed by the victims mother Nirmala Dudhrejiya, the accused conspired to commit the crime. The accused, all related to the wife of the deceased, were identified as Adam Musa Detha (42), Hothi alias Dado Kasam Detha (27), Juma Musa Detha (40), Osman Musa Detha (35), Sajid Isha Detha (26), and Salim Hussain Detha (32). The identity of the juvenile has not been disclosed as per the law. Besides BNS section 103(2) pertaining to murder committed by five or more individuals acting in concert on grounds of race, caste, or community etc, the accused have also been booked under sections 189(2) and 191 for unlawful assembly and rioting, respectively. While the situation in the area is peaceful, we have maintained strict police patrolling, the SP said. Dr Krishna Chivukula, a US-based industrialist and entrepreneur, has donated 228 crore to IIT-Madras. It is one of the biggest donations received by IIT Madras. Dr Krishna Chivukula studied at IIT Madras in the 1970s. IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti said Dr Krishna Chivukula studied aerospace engineering in the 1970s at IIT Madras. "Nearly after 53 years, our alumni Dr Krishna Chivukula, has come to give 228 crore as an endowment to IIT-Madras. He had studied M Tech in aerospace engineering during the 1970s and has established companies which are engaged in the manufacture of components for aeroplanes," Kamakoti told reporters. In the financial year 2023-2024, the engineering college received 513 crore as donations. Former IITians contributed 367 crore to the total sum. As part of recognising the contribution of Chivukula, IIT Madras has established the Krishna Chivukula Block on its sprawling campus at Adyar. Who is Dr Krishna Chivukula? Dr Krishna Chivukula, who studied in a Telugu medium school till class 8, pursued M Tech in Aerospace Engineering at IIT Madras. He later moved to the United States for an MBA at Harvard University. He later set up his company Indo-US MIM (Metal Injection Molding) in the United States. He also founded a firm that specialises in advanced mass spectroscopy. Chivukula said during his stay in the United States various successful business leaders had donated funds to universities where they pursued their education and this triggered him to contribute to IIT Madras. "In (the United States of) America, there is so much philanthropy in sectors like education, health...," he added. "Dr. Krishna Chivukula rapidly rose through the engineering ranks of Hoffman Industries in the USA to become Chief Engineer in 1976. In 1984, after his Harvard MBA, he returned to Hoffman Industries as Group President and CEO, but left in 1990 to start his first company, Shiva Technologies Inc., in Syracuse, New York. Under his leadership, Shiva Technologies grew to the # 1 position in the world in the area of trace element analysis using advanced mass spectroscopic techniques. In 1997, Shiva Analyticals Pvt. Ltd. was established in Bangalore," IIT Madras's website said about him. New Delhi, India is "deeply concerned" over the situation in Bangladesh, especially about the status of the minority communities, and it is in regular touch with authorities in Dhaka, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Tuesday, a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and flew into the Hindon airbase near Delhi. Naturally remained deeply concerned, says India in first reaction to dramatic developments in Bangladesh In India's first reaction to the dramatic developments in Bangladesh, Jaishankar, in suo-motu statements in both houses of Parliament, said Hasina decided to resign after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment and requested for approval at very short notice to come to India "for the moment". Top sources said India has already reached out to the new dispensation in Dhaka for ensuring safety and well-being of over 10,000 Indians currently residing in Bangladesh. It is learnt that New Delhi has conveyed to 76-year-old Hasina that she can stay in India till her travel plans for taking refuge in another country is finalised. In his remarks, Jaishankar said India's border guarding forces have been instructed to be "exceptionally alert" in view of this "complex situation" in Bangladesh. Delving into the developments leading up to Hasina's resignation following weeks of students' protests, Jaishankar said New Delhi had "repeatedly counselled restraint and urged that the situation be diffused through dialogue". "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students," he said. The external affairs minister said the bulk of the students have already returned to India in the month of July, adding it is India's expectation that the host government will provide the required security protection to the Indian missions in Bangladesh. "We are also monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organizations to ensure their protection and well-being," he said. "We welcome that, but will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored. Our border guarding forces have also been instructed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation," he said. Hasina, who ruled the South Asian country with an iron fist for 15 years, resigned as the prime minister on Monday following massive protests that initially began as an agitation against a job quota scheme but weeks later morphed into a mass movement demanding her ouster from power. Jaishankar said India is looking forward to the normal functioning of the Indian missions once the situation stabilizes. "In terms of our diplomatic presence, in addition to the High Commission in Dhaka, we have Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna and Sylhet," he said. The external affairs minister also touched upon the dramatic developments in Bangladesh. "On August 4, events took a very serious turn. Attacks on police, including police stations and government installations, intensified even as overall levels of violence greatly escalated," he said. "Properties of individuals associated with the regime were torched across the country. What was particularly worrying was that minorities, their businesses and temples also came under attack at multiple locations. The full extent of this is still not clear," he said. Jaishankar said that on August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. "Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign," he said. "At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he added. Jaishankar described the situation in Bangladesh as "still evolving". "The Army Chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman, addressed the nation on August 5. He spoke about assuming responsibility and constituting an interim government," Jaishankar said. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text. New Delhi, Underlining that there is no carrying capacity restricting the number of pilgrims across Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri in Uttarakhand, the National Green Tribunal has asked the state's environment department secretary to disclose who would be held responsible in case of an accident. NGT asks Uttarakhand authorities to disclose responsibility in case of mishap in 4 pilgrim centres The NGT was hearing a petition about the unregulated dumping of waste, including equine dung and their carcasses, along the pilgrim tracks of Kedarnath, Hemkund Sahib, Yamunotri and Gomukh. A bench of NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava noted that according to a state government circular dated May 10, 2022, the carrying capacity of pilgrims for Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri was fixed at 16,000, 13,000, 8,000 and 5,000 respectively. The bench, also comprising judicial member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and expert member A Senthil Vel, noted that by a circular dated April 21, 2023, the earlier circular fixing the carrying capacity was withdrawn. "It is undisputed before the tribunal that as of today, there is no carrying capacity fixed even on an ad-hoc basis for the pilgrims on the tracks of Shri Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri, and there is no restriction in respect of the number of pilgrims on those tracks," the tribunal said in its order dated July 31. It said according to the state government's counsel, one year would be required to get a report about the carrying capacity at the four pilgrimage sites and in this background, the petitioner's counsel had argued that the unregulated number of pilgrims could result in a mishap and someone must take its responsibility. "In these circumstances, we direct the secretary, environment department to appear through virtual mode on the next date of hearing and disclose his stand in respect of the submission of the counsel for the applicant about any untimely mishap in the absence of a carrying capacity and how the loss in such a case would be compensated and who will be held responsible for it," the NGT said. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text. Mumbai, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam on Tuesday criticised Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray over his three-day Delhi visit, saying Thackeray was ignoring the rain-affected people of Maharashtra for his chief ministerial ambitions. Nirupam targets Uddhav over Delhi visit, says personal ambition more important for him Chief Minister Eknath Shinde cancelled his visit to the national capital as Nashik, Pune and other parts of the state were affected by torrential rains, he noted while talking to reporters here. "Thackeray went to Delhi to get a better deal ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. It appears that he is more focussed on his political interests rather than addressing the sufferings of the people affected by rains," Nirupam claimed. The Sena chief was seeking support from the Congress as he wanted to become chief minister again after the coming assembly elections, he claimed. Thackeray landed in Delhi earlier in the day. He is expected to meet several Congress leaders and constituents of the INDIA bloc. "Uddhav Thackeray is aiming to become the chief ministerial face of the Maha Vikas Aghadi . But Sharad Pawar is against this because Pawar wants his daughter Supriya Sule to become chief minister. Thackeray has effectively surrendered before the Congress party, but there are several contenders for the CM post within the state Congress too," said Nirupam who quit the Congress earlier this year. "Balasaheb Thackeray never sought support by going to anyone's place. He always invited people to his place," Nirupam, who started his political career in the 1990s with the party founded by the late Sena patriarch, said. Asked about the proposed bill to amend the Waqf Board Act, 1956, he said these changes were needed to make the Act relevant in the changing times. "After the Army and Railways, Waqf Boards have the largest land holding in the country, nearly eight lakh acres. There should be proper regulation of the Waqf boards' functioning," he said. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text. Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday said that the allegations of removing the Preamble of the Constitution from NCERT textbooks were baseless and accused the Congress of playing politics with lies. Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan.(PTI) He said that, for the first time, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has given due importance and respect to various aspects of the Indian Constitutionsuch as the Preamble, Fundamental Duties, Fundamental Rights, and the National Anthemin the textbooks. Following the NEP's vision for the holistic development of children, all these aspects are being included in age-appropriate textbooks for various stages. But, using a subject like education for the politics of lies and taking the help of children for this shows the disgusting mentality of the Congress party. Those who are playing with the future of children and calling the Indian education system rubbish should try to know the truth before spreading lies, Pradhan said in a post on X (formerly Twitter) 'Congress opposed India's development' The education minister alleged that the Congress has always opposed India's development and education system. He claimed that Congress party's argument that only the Preamble of the Constitution reflects constitutional values exposes its lack of understanding of the Constitution. Inspired by Macaulay's ideology, Congress has always hated India's development and education system. The argument that only the Preamble of the Constitution reflects constitutional values exposes Congress' understanding of the Constitution. Congress's cup of sins is full and those who are roaming around these days as 'fake Constitution lovers' and waving copies of the Constitution, their ancestors had repeatedly killed the basic spirit of the Constitution, he added in the post. He said that if there is even a little shame and remorse left in the Congress party, then it should first understand the Constitution, constitutional values and NEP and stop doing petty politics in the name of the children of the country. Earlier, NCERT clarified in a post on X, The understanding that only the Preamble reflects the Constitution and Constitutional Values is flawed and narrow. Why should children not acquire Constitutional Values from Fundamental Duties, Fundamental Rights and National Anthem along with Preamble? We give equal importance to all of these for the holistic development of children following the vision of NEP - 2020. The United Kindom's laws don't allow people to travel to the country and seek temporary refuge or asylum, Britain's home office told NDTV, amid reports that ousted Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina's planned next stop could be London. A mural of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is seen vandalised by protesters as people celebrate her resignation in Dhaka, Bangladesh. (Reuters) Sheikh Hasina has reportedly been in New Delhi since Monday. She had fled Dhaka fearing for her safety amid violent protests against quotas in government jobs. The UK government told the news channel that those seeking asylum must do so in the first safe country they reach. According to PTI, the UK has told Sheikh Hasina that the country won't be able to provide her with legal immunity should she seek asylum in the country. Per the agency, she is exploring other avenues as well. Her original plan was to move to London after a brief stay in India. However, she will now stay in India for at least two days due to uncertainties, the agency added. The spokesperson for the UK Home Office told the channel: "Those who need international protection should claim asylum in the first safe country they reach - that is the fastest route to safety". India has assured Sheikh Hasina of help, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar told an all-party meeting in the national capital on Tuesday. He, however, said that the political leader was in shock after she was ousted from office and her country and the Centre has given her time to recoup before proceeding with discussions on her next move. Meanwhile, the union minister made a statement in the Parliament, elaborating on the circumstances that led to Sheikh Hasina's landing in Ghaziabad hours after she fled Dhaka. "On 5th August, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina decided to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he told the House. With inputs from PTI, ANI Indore, A three-year-old girl, inmate of an `ashram' or shelter home here, has died during treatment which took the number of children from the facility who died following a recent cholera outbreak to 11, an official said on Tuesday. Shri Yugpurush Dham Bal Ashram in the city, which offers shelter to disabled, neglected or orphaned children, is in news after several inmates died in the last one-and-half months. Dr Preeti Malpani, superintendent of the government-run Chacha Nehru Bal Chikitsalaya, said the girl's family members admitted her in the children's hospital in very critical condition on August 3. "The girl was suffering from vomiting, diarrhoea and dehydration," she said. Despite all efforts by doctors, her condition did not improve and she died on Monday night, Dr Malpani said. The girl was already suffering from malnutrition and disability, she said, adding that the body was sent for autopsy. The ashram management claimed they had handed over the girl to her family, the hospital superintendent said. According to officials, a recent probe report by the district administration indicated that ten children died in the last one-and-half months after the outbreak of cholera in the ashram. A probe conducted by a high-level committee constituted by the administration also suggested that there was overcrowding at the ashram. Medical records of children were not maintained properly and there were other irregularities, the panel found. In the case of the latest death, no prima facie negligence has been found, said district collector Ashish Singh. The inmates whose parents are alive have been handed over to them, he said. Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jitu Patwari said the deaths of children in various cases of negligence have become the hallmark of the BJP government. "What is the reason that even after the deaths of 11 children from the ashram in Indore, no FIR has been registered against the management? A case should be registered against the ashram management immediately," he said. One more inmate of Indore children's shelter home dies; toll rises to 11 The proceedings of the Lok Sabha are underway during the Budget Session of the Parliament, in New Delhi Parliament session Highlights: Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman will move the Finance (No.2) Bill, 2024, for consideration in Parliament on Tuesday to give effect to the financial proposals of the central government for the financial year 2024-25. Union minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh) is expected to make a statement in Lok Sabha regarding the status of implementation of the recommendations contained in the 70th report of the standing committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Food Processing on 'Employment Generation and Revenue Earning Potential of Fisheries Sector' about the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying....Read More The unprecedented developments in Bangladesh which forced former Prime Sheikh Hasina to resign and seek temporary shelter in India, is expected also to be on top of the agenda during Parliament session. External affairs minister S Jaishankar will make a suo motu statement in Rajya Sabha by 2.30 pm. He will also address the Lok Sabha by 3.30 pm on the situation in Bangladesh. Leader of Opposition and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi is also expected to make a statement on the issue concerning India's national interest. Amid the government's plan to amend the Waqf boards act 1995, several Opposition MPs termed the move as an attempt to create division within the society. They are expected to speak against the amendment when it is introduced in Parliament. Follow all live updates here A set of contentious potential amendments to the Waqf Act kicked up a political controversy on Monday with the government claiming the proposed changes would modernise the rules and expand the representation of women, and the Opposition alleging they were aimed at depriving Muslims of their land and assets. The Central Waqf Council (CWC) is a statutory body operating under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, established in 1964 as per the Waqf Act, 1954. (Anushree Fadnavis/HT Archive) Waqf is the permanent dedication of movable or immovable properties for religious, pious or charitable purposes as recognized by Muslim law. The Waqf Act was first passed by Parliament in 1954. It was later repealed and a new act was passed in 1995, which granted more powers to Waqf boards. In 2013, the act was amended to grant the Waqf Board extensive powers to designate property as Waqf property. There is speculation that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, with about 40 amendments, might be introduced this week in the Rajya Sabha, where the Bharatiya Janata Party is the single-largest party with 87 lawmakers but without a majority. The party is confident of passing the bill though both the YSR Congress Party and the Biju Janata Dal, which helped the government push bills through the Rajya Sabha over the past five years, have not indicated their support, the people added. The BJD has eight members, while the YSRCP has 11 members in the Upper House, and both have turned strongly anti-government. All eyes will also be on National Democratic Alliance members Janata Dal (United) and Telugu Desam Party given the contentious nature of the proposed changes. The government is pushing the proposed amendments as a much-needed reform and is hopeful of getting support from parties that are neither aligned to the NDA nor to the INDIA bloc, said people aware of the details. The bill is likely to include a provision calling for judicial scrutiny to determine whether a property is a Waqf asset and make mandatory provision of registration of properties with district collectors for their actual valuation. This is a progressive bill, we do not anticipate any hurdles in its passage... one has to look at the broader issues that will be addressed by the bill, said a government functionary, declining to be named. Some opposition parties, including the Rashtriya Janata Dal, Samajwadi Party and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, attacked the proposed changes and accused the government of interference in personal laws. Opposition to the bill is from those quarters that have vested interests. The amendments proposed will address the biggest concern, the absolute powers that the board has to determine what is their property. If the Waqf Board acquires the property of an individual who cannot challenge it, then the board tribunal has the final say and no courts can intervene...the proposed amendments also address the issue of gender parity by making it mandatory to have women members as part of Waqf boards in states, said the functionary cited above. Asked whether the government reached out to the Opposition and allies, the functionary said the process of communication had begun for the bill that also proposes to expand the composition of the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards (SWBs), and make provisions for an online system for tracking revenue and expenditure. The Central Waqf Council (CWC) is a statutory body operating under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, established in 1964 as per the Waqf Act, 1954. Its primary function is to serve as a national advisory body to the Central Government regarding Waqf Boards and the administration of Awqaf. The Council includes a Chairperson, who is the Union Minister in charge of Waqf, and up to 20 other members appointed by the Government of India. Following the Waqf Amendment Act of 2013, the Councils role has expanded to advising and issuing directives to Central and State Governments and State Waqf Boards. It now oversees the performance of the Boards, including financial performance, surveys, revenue records, encroachments of Waqf properties, and Annual and Audit reports. The Waqf Board currently controls nearly 900,000 properties spanning 940,000 acres across India, with an estimated value of 1.2 lakh crores, making it the third largest landowner in India According to a note from the ministry of minority affairs, the amendments are set to incorporate recommendations from both the 2006 Rajendra Sachar Committee report and the 2008 Joint Parliamentary Committee report. The Sachar Committees suggestions include regulating Mutawallis (custodian of Waqf), enhancing record management, and involving non-Muslim technical experts in Waqf management. It also proposes adding two women members to CWC and each SWB, appointing a joint secretary-level officer, and implementing financial audits for Waqf properties. The 2008 report advocated for a revamp of Waqf boards, appointing a senior-level officer as CEO for SWBs, and taking strict measures against unauthorised alienation of Waqf properties. Currently, women are not represented on Waqf boards or councils, which manage mosques and Islamic endowments. The proposed amendments are expected to make it mandatory for Waqf boards to register properties with the collectors office for evaluation. The government is considering involving district magistrates in monitoring Waqf properties to prevent misuse and ensuring that properties undergo fresh verification to resolve disputes. The amendments may also increase womens participation in the Central Waqf Council by amending Sections 9 and 14. The first Waqf Act was passed in 1954, and first amendment was passed in 1995... there have been voices from within the community that have expressed concern over some of the existing provisions, which are not even followed in Muslim countries. The Waqf board controls assets worth crores, but the revenue generated is not commensurate with the holdings, the functionary cited above said. The demand to revisit the Act has been on the agenda of the BJPs ideological fount, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, for decades. The introduction of the bill is also a sign that the BJP wants to assert its dominance despite running a coalition government, said a senior party functionary. There is a perception that the BJP, which won only 240 seats (down from 303 in 2019) has to accommodate the allies and therefore will not be as decisive as it was in the last two terms. Introduction of this bill and its passage will be a message.... added the second functionary. A BJD functionary said the government has not contacted them. We have not seen the contents of the Bill. We will be able to comment only after we assess the amendments, said the party functionary, not wishing to be named. A YSRCP leader said the party is unlikely to support the bill, although there is a section within the party that is not averse to changing course. The Opposition slammed the government. The proposed amendments, as reported in the media, show that the Modi government wants to take away the autonomy of the Waqf board. It wants to interfere in personal laws and that itself is against freedom of religion, said Asaduddin Owaisi, AIMIM lawmaker. After the ouster of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government, Indian security agencies were ready for any contingency as she was headed towards India for safety in an Air Force jet. Sheikh Hasina (C) weeps while she visits a metro station in Mirpur vandalized by students during the anti-quota protests. (AFP file photo) Indian Air Force radars were actively monitoring air space over Bangladesh and detected a low-level flying aircraft around 3 PM coming towards India, sources told ANI. The aircraft was allowed to move inside India as the air defence personnel knew who was inside the plane, they said. In a bid to provide security to the plane, two Rafale fighter aircraft from the 101 squadron from Hashimara air base in West Bengal were airborne over Bihar and Jharkhand as the aircraft, the sources said. The aircraft was on its flight path and was closely monitored by the agencies in ground with constant communication between it and top Indian security officials on ground, the sources said. The Indian Air Force and Army chiefs Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and Gen Upendra Dwivedi were monitoring the situation very closely, the sources said. A top-level meeting of top security officials was also held with the involvement of intel agency chiefs, Gen Dwivedi and Integrated Defence Staff chief Lt Gen Johnson Philip Mathew. As Hasina's jet landed at Hindan air base around 545 PM, she was greeted by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval who held an hour-long meeting with her and the current situation in Bangladesh and her future course of action also came up for discussion. The NSA then left the airbase in the evening to brief a Cabinet Committee of Security meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The PM was kept informed about the developments throughout the day. Telangana, which has a huge business potential, can be the missing jigsaw piece in American industrys search for a perfect China-plus-one strategy, chief minister A Revanth Reddy said on Tuesday. Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy with business leaders at a roundtable hosted by the Consulate General of India, New York. (PTI) Addressing a luncheon meeting with top chief executive officers and business leaders of the US at an official roundtable hosted by Consulate General of India, New York, Revanth Reddy said Telangana was now a powerhouse in software, life-sciences and pharma, with a strong base in aerospace, defence, electronics and other sectors. We have great infrastructure, wonderful talent and offer best policy support from our government for investors. Hyderabad, an over 425-years-old city built by the Nizams, is interestingly almost the same age as the United State of America, the chief minister said. Over 20 chairpersons, CEOs representing well-known companies from varied sectors, including pharma, IT, technology, EV, GCC, biotech, and shipping sectors, among others, attended the meeting, an official statement from the chief ministers office said. Read Here | Telangana is in a state of fragile financial health: CAG report Revanth Reddy, who had been to the US on a mission to attract investments, explained how his government had initiated several ambitious projects which offer opportunities for investment into the future and promise exponential growth. We are creating a new industrial policy to match our dreams. We will make it very easy to start a new business and expand your existing business in Telangana. Telangana means business. I mean it, he said. State IT minister D Sridhar Babu made an elaborate pitch on the current strengths of Telangana for a variety of industry sectors and detailed the policies that would make the state a viable alternative to China for manufacturing and developing Hyderabad into one of the top 10 cities in the world. The industry leaders spoke of their experiences of investing worldwide, and doing business in India, and their expectations from Telangana and Hyderabad. They also explained the current plans for investments in the coming days, the official statement said. Earlier in the day, the chief minister and the IT minister held discussions with Trigyn Technologies, a global digital and intelligence solutions provider specialised in data analytics and Artificial Intelligence start-ups. Read Here: Revanth on visit to S Korea to seek investments for Telangana The official statement said Trigyn, which has its office in Hyderabad with 100 people, has proposed to establish an AI innovation and delivery centre in the state capital and it will hire, train and grow to a total capacity of over 1,000 people in the next three years. Similarly, another technology firm Arcesium, a leading provider of tech solutions for asset managers, announced major plans to expand capacity in Hyderabad. The company representatives led by its CEO Gaurav Suri held a meeting with Revanth Reddy and Sridhar Babu in the morning. The statement said Arcesium, which was launched as an independent entity backed by DE Shaw group and Blackstone Alternative Asset Management (BAAM), delivers advanced data, operations, analytics platforms used by financial institutions, including hedge funds, banks, institutional assets managers and private equity firms. As part of expansions, the company will hire 500 high-end tech talent in Hyderabad in the next two years, the statement said. Similarly, the Telangana official delegation also had discussions with Swachh Bio, a lignocellulosic biofuels manufacturing company, which has agreed to invest 1,000 crore in Telangana to establish a 2G Bioethanol plant with an employment potential of 500 jobs. Swachh Bio chairman Praveen Paripati met with the chief minister in New York and held discussions in this regard. India has assured help to Sheikh Hasina, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar told an all-party meeting on Tuesday, a day after the beleaguered Bangladesh ex-PM fled Dhaka and landed in Ghaziabad. S Jaishankar told the meeting that Sheikh Hasina was in a state of shock and the Indian government was giving her time to recover before it spoke to her over various issues, including her future plans. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Union Minister JP Nadda and others leave after an All-Party meeting about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh.(PTI) Briefing political party leaders in Parliament House, including Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, S Jaishankar said New Delhi has spoken to Bangladesh's army chief to ensure the safety of over 10,000 Indian students in the country. Also read: Sheikh Hasina's London plan hits roadblock amid 'uncertainties': Report Responding to a query by Rahul Gandhi on the involvement of foreign powers in Bangladesh unrest, S Jaishankar didn't rule out the possibility. He told the leaders that the government was keeping a keen eye on the fluid situation, reported PTI. S Jaishankar later wrote on his X account that all the parties extended their support to the government in riding over the crisis. "Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended," Jaishankar posted on X after the meeting. Congress leader Karti Chidambaram said the party was fully with the government as far as national security and national interest were concerned. The all-party meeting was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Health Minister J P Nadda, JD(U) leader and Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh Lalan, JD(S) leader and Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, DMK leader T R Baalu, SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav, Trinamool leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay, NCP leader Supriya Sule. On Monday, Sheikh Hasina landed at Ghaziabad's Hindon airport after fleeing Dhaka. Her government had been facing violent protests over quotas in government jobs to select groups that backed her. Over 300 people died in clashes that have been going on for weeks. Today, the military plane that carried her to India reached Bangladesh without her. It is expected she would later leave for London after seeking political asylum from the United Kindom government. With inputs from PTI Former Bangladesh premier Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India after resigning, has been moved from Hindon airbase to an unspecified safe location amid uncertainty over her plans to travel to the UK, people familiar with the developments said on Tuesday. The Indian Air Force station at Hindon in New Delhi. (AP Photo) Hasina, 76, and her small entourage flew into Hindon airbase near New Delhi in a Bangladesh Air Force aircraft late on Monday afternoon, hours after she quit following massive protests calling for the ouster of her government. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and senior military officials met Hasina at the airbase shortly after her arrival. The people cited above said on condition of anonymity that Hasina was moved from Hindon airbase to a safe location under tight security. The people declined to give details for security reasons. External affairs minister S Jaishankar told Parliament that Hasina had sought approval on Monday to come to India for the moment. The people said she is expected to remain in India for some time because of uncertainty over her plan to travel to London, where she has relatives. Hasina is accompanied by her sister Sheikh Rehana, a British citizen whose daughter Tulip Siddiq is a Labour Party leader in the UK. Siddiq was recently re-elected as an MP and appointed as economic secretary to the treasury and city minister. The people said Hasina sought certain assurances from UK authorities, such as legal protection in relation to potential investigations into the violent protests since last month that left nearly 400 people dead in Bangladesh. However, UK foreign secretary David Lammy on Monday called for a UN-led probe into the unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life in Bangladesh. The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past two weeks, he said in a statement. The UKs Immigration Rules have no provision for a person to be allowed to travel to Britain to seek asylum or temporary refuge. It is understood that the British side believes a person needing international protection should claim asylum in the first country they reach since this will be the fastest route to safety. The people said these developments had cast uncertainty over Hasinas plans to travel to the UK. They said Hasinas team is exploring options for seeking asylum in other countries. One of the countries reportedly being looked at is Finland, since the former premier has relatives there too. Other options being looked at include Russia, Belarus or a West Asian country, the people said. During an all-party meeting on the situation in Bangladesh on Monday morning, leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi asked whether the government has information on Hasinas future plans, people familiar with the matter said. Jaishankar, who was among the ministers who briefed the gathering, said the Indian side has spoken to Hasina on her future course of action, but it could not be disclosed at the moment. Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India after the unrest in her country threatened her safety, may be unable to fly to London for at least the next two days because of certain "uncertainties", PTI reported, citing people familiar with the matter. A view shows a mural of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina vandalised by protesters, a day after her resignation, in Dhaka, Bangladesh.(Reuters) Sheikh Hasina originally planned to move to London and seek political asylum after a brief stay in New Delhi. However, the plan has now hit a roadblock. New Delhi has assured Sheikh Hasina of help, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar told an all-party meeting in the national capital on Tuesday. The minister reportedly told the politicians that Sheikh Hasina was in shock after being forced to leave her country. The government has given her time before discussing her next course of action and plans. Sheikh Hasina, who landed at the Hindon airbase on Monday hours after resigning as prime minister, was shifted to an unspecified location. The news agency reported that she was to travel to London from New Delhi. However, she is now contemplating other options after the British government indicated she may not get legal protection in the UK against any possible investigation. S Jaishankar, meanwhile, made a statement in the Rajya Sabha over the law and order situation in Bangladesh. "On 5th August, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina decided to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he told the House. He said the government is in close touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh. "We are also monitoring the situation about the status of minorities. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being. Naturally, we will remain deeply concerned till law and order is restored," he added. With inputs from PTI, ANI A day after Sheikh Hasina fled to India after she was forced to resign as the prime minister of Bangladesh, the plane that flew her to Ghaziabad's Hindon air base took off today without her. Protesters celebrate beside a defaced portrait of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after news of her resignation, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. (AP) The C-130 J transport aircraft took off today from the Hindon air base around 9 am with seven military personnel in it towards its base in Bangladesh. Where is Sheikh Hasina? What happened during her stay in India? According to reports, hours after fleeing Dhaka, Sheikh Hasina landed in India at the Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad. She was reportedly taken to a safe house. She is reportedly still at the safe house. Sheikh Hasina is expected to fly to London and seek political asylum. Some reports suggested that she was in touch with the authorities in the United Kingdom regarding asylum. Also read: Sheikh Hasina's London plan hits roadblock amid 'uncertainties': Report Her stay in India and the situation in Bangladesh also prompted hectic activities in the Indian security apparatus. On Monday night, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security. Union minister S Jaishankar today briefed an all-party meeting on the situation in Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina landed at the airport at 5.15 pm on Monday. Sheikh Hasina also met India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, reported The Indian Express. During her interaction with Doval, senior military and intelligence officers were also present. PTI reported she would meet her daughter Saima Wazed, who lives in New Delhi. Her daughter works for the United Nations. After Hasina left Bangladesh, a mob attacked her official residence, vandalised it and looted her personal belongings. They also damaged the statue of Sheikh Muzibur Rahman, Bangladesh's independence hero and Hasina's father. Hasina had been facing protests from students over quotas in government jobs. Over 250 students and security personnel died in bloody clashes that went on for weeks before her resignation. The Bangladesh military has announced that an interim government will be formed. Meanwhile, a key organizer of Bangladesh's student protests said Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus was their choice as head of an interim government. Nahid Islam, the organizer, in a video post on social media said the student protest leaders have already talked with Yunus, who consented to take over considering the present situation of the country. With inputs from ANI, agencies In the ongoing investigation into the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribe Development Corporation scam, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has filed a preliminary charge sheet, detailing the arrest of 12 individuals and the recovery of assets and cash amounting to over 49.96 crore. The Opposition, including the BJP and JD(S), have demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, alleging that he knew of the scam. (PTI) In an official press release, SIT disclosed that it has registered eight cases , leading to the seizure of substantial cash and assets. The preliminary charge sheet, which consists of seven volumes and 3,072 pages, has been filed under High Grounds Police Station Case No. 118/2024. The accused face charges under several sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including 120(B) for criminal conspiracy, 406 for criminal breach of trust, 409 for criminal breach of trust by a public servant, 420 for cheating, and 465, 468, 471 for forgery-related offences. The Investigating Officer of the Special Investigation Team has filed a preliminary charge sheet containing seven volumes and 3,072 pages in High Grounds Police Station Case No. 118/2024 against the above-accused persons u/s 120(B), 406, 409, 420, 465, 468, 471 IPC in the Honble 3rd ACMM Court, Bengaluru and further investigation is continued, read the press note. According to the charge sheet, the investigation has uncovered the involvement of several high-profile figures in the scam. Among those arrested are JG Padmanabha, the ex-Managing Director of the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation, and Parashuram Durgannanavar, the ex-Accounts Officer of the same corporation. Sathyanarayana Etakari, Chairman of the First Finance Credit Co-Operative Society Limited, and Nekkunte Nagaraj, an associate of former state minister Nagendra, have also been taken into custody. Nageshwar Rao, the brother-in-law of Nekkunte Nagaraj, along with individuals from Hyderabad, Shivamogga, Bengaluru, and Andhra Pradesh, have been implicated in the case. SITs investigation revealed that out of the 187.33 crore involved in the scam, 88.63 crore was illegally transferred to at least 217 different bank accounts, including those belonging to 18 firms in Telangana. This money was allegedly diverted from accounts within the government treasury to the Union Bank of Indias MG Road branch in Bengaluru. Among the assets seized by SIT are 6.83 crore in cash, 16.2546 kg of gold valued at 11.70 crore, cars worth 4.51 crore, and an account officers bank balance of 3.19 crore. Additionally, frozen accounts contained 13.72 crore. The scam initially came to light following the suicide of the corporations accounts superintendent. In their suicide note, the victim detailed the fraudulent transfer of funds and the involvement of corporation and bank officials. The situation escalated when opposition parties, BJP and JD(S), demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, alleging that he knew of the scam. This scandal has already resulted in the resignation of Minister B Nagendra, who is currently under investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and is in judicial custody. However, the SIT charge sheet doesnt mention the minister. The opposition has accused the government of complicity, alleging that such a massive transfer of funds could not have occurred without the Chief Ministers awareness. In response, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has dismissed these allegations, maintaining that he had no prior information about the scam. Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Monday said that the Congress is prepared to fight a legal battle if Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot gives consent for an investigation against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. If the Governor gives consent to investigate the Chief Minister then Congress is prepared to fight a legal battle. We have confidence that the Governor will accept the decision of the council of ministers. The notice given to the Chief Minister should be withdrawn, he said. The controversy surrounds a complaint filed by activist TJ Abraham, seeking sanction for prosecution against Siddaramaiah on Friday. The government responded to the complaint, but the governor issued a notice shortly after receiving a report from the chief secretary on Friday itself. Talking about the case, BJP state president BY Vijayendra said: This CM has become a puppet in the hands of Congresss high command. Karnataka has become an ATM for the Congress party and the Gandhi family. So we are fighting this and we want this corrupt CM to be removed. Security agencies tightened their vigil on the international border with Bangladesh, instructing shops in some places to close by 9pm, holding meetings with village heads of villages close to the border, and asking people not to move as freely as before, a day after Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina had to resign and flee to India to escape spiralling unrest. BSF personnel maintaining a strict vigil in areas bordering Bangladesh. (HT Photo) Senior officials from agencies like the Border Security Force (BSF) and state police services rushed to various sensitive points on the 4,096-kilometre-long border that India shares with Bangladesh, cutting across 5 states, and said that personnel had all been told to stay on high alert. BSF officials said that border guards had been asked to stay vigilant, particularly on frontier areas with Bangladesh where police stations have been looted or prisoners have fled. There were reports of mobs looting weapons from police stations and prisoners fleeing from Sherpur jail in Bangladesh. Stopping infiltration or smuggling of weapons is a top priority, an official at the Delhi headquarters said. To be sure, no incident of violence has been reported at any border village. In south Bengal, BSF personnel on Tuesday held coordination meetings with officials of the state government and village heads. The villagers were advised not to move freely in the border areas and on the International Border Road (IBR) at night. It was also decided that all shops in the market should be closed by 9pm and announcements will be made from mosques that villagers should stay away from the border areas, a spokesperson said. While there are additional layers of security along the vulnerable stretches of the border, senior officers are also visiting such spots and checking for operation preparedness. BSF chief Daljit Singh Chawdhary visited the Petrapole integrated checkpost on Tuesday, and will visit Tripura and Meghalaya over the next few days. In Meghalaya, BSF Inspector General Harbax Singh Dhillon said that troops and field commanders are closely monitoring the international border, and commandants have been deployed at border posts. All land customs stations and integrated check posts are on high alert and civilian movement has been restricted along the Indo-Bangladesh border, the IG said. The Meghalaya government had on Monday imposed a night curfew along the 443 kilometre border the state shares with Bangladesh. East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police, S Nongtnger said, We have deployed adequate human resources to monitor the situation and support the central forces. In fact, there are officers of the rank of additional and deputy superintendent of police on the ground to monitor all measures. In Tripura, chief minister Manik Saha said that he had spoken to the state chief secretary, director general of police and representatives of the BSF to tighten border controls. I am in constant touch with Delhi and have spoken to our chief secretary, DGP, BSF, Assam Rifles so that nobody can enter through the border. We shall work based on the instructions given by the Centre, Saha said. Officials from Assam, which shares a 265.5-kilometre-long border with Bangladesh predominantly in Cachar and Karimganj said that they had temporarily sealed the border. We keep a 24/7 vigil on the border areas but it has been strengthened multiple times now. We wont allow spillover of violence from Bangladesh to India through this border, an official said. The sealing of the border with trade at a standstill over the past two days have also meant that trucks carrying goods have been left stranded near the International Land Port in Karimganjs Sutarkandi, officials said. The All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council on Tuesday supported the Centre's purported move to curb the powers of Waqf boards. In a statement, AISSC chairman Syed Naseruddin Chishty said that the bill was long overdue, and that dargahs across the country are supporting this move. Syed Naseruddin Chishty, chairman of All India Sufi Sajjadanshin Council (AISSC) All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council strongly supports the amendment that are being proposed by this Government. There is a desperate need for the amendments, Chishty said. He also said that the council has been demanding this for a ling time. The AISSC chairman further demanded a separate Dargah Board under the amendments. Dargahs are supporting this decision. An amendment is needed because Dargahs are the biggest victims, he said. "In the present Waqf Act, there is no mention of dargahs at all. The Waqf Boards do not recognise the traditions of the dargah as many of our traditions are not there in sharia, so we demand a separate Dargah Board," he said at a press conference. Chishty's statement comes just as there is buzz around Centre planning to bring a bill in Parliament to amend the 1995 law governing Waqf boards. This bill will ensure more accountability and transparency in their functioning and mandatory inclusion of women in these bodies, reported PTI citing sources. Alleging that the Waqf board operates in a dictatorial form, Chishty said, We are hopeful that the draft Waqf Amendment Bill will be comprehensive and serve the interests of all stakeholders. Following a thorough examination of the draft, we intend to submit our recommendations and proposal. AISSC meets NSA Ajit Doval, Kiren Rijiju The AISSC chairman, along with the council representatives, met with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday to express their concerns regarding the bill. "We were given assurance by the NSA and the Minority Affairs Minister that all the stakeholders will be consulted and the amendments will be in the interest of the Muslims," Chishty said. The bill will bring transparency because there is a lot of corruption spread and this needs a solution. Some provisions are clashing with each other, they need to be sorted out... We want that the position of Dargahs to be defined in the Waqf Act, the Islamic body chief said in his statement. (With inputs from ANI, PTI) Uncertainty surrounded former Bangladesh premier Sheikh Hasinas plans to travel to London following the UKs apparent reluctance to offer her asylum, even as she was moved on Tuesday from Hindon airbase to an unspecified safe location, possibly in the vicinity, people familiar with developments said. Smoke billows near burnt Awami League party office as anti-government protestors set fire in Dhaka on Tuesday. (AFP) Hasina, 76, and her small entourage flew into the Indian Air Forces Hindon airbase near New Delhi in a Bangladesh Air Force aircraft late on Monday afternoon, hours after she quit following massive protests seeking the ouster of her government. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and senior military officials met Hasina at the airbase shortly after her arrival. The people cited above said on condition of anonymity that Hasina was moved from Hindon airbase to a safe location under tight security. The people declined to give details for security reasons. To be sure, the Hindon base is a secure facility with provision for people to stay if needed. Read Here: Hindu homes, temples targeted and looted in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina ouster, says minority group External affairs minister S Jaishankar told Parliament on Tuesday that Hasina had sought approval on Monday to come to India for the moment. The people said she is expected to remain in India for some time because of uncertainty about her plans to travel to London, where she has relatives. Hasina is accompanied by her sister Sheikh Rehana, a British citizen whose daughter Tulip Siddiq is a Labour Party leader in the UK. Siddiq was recently re-elected as an MP and appointed as economic secretary to the treasury and city minister. The people said Hasina sought certain assurances from UK authorities, such as legal protection in relation to potential investigations into the violent protests that left nearly 400 people dead in Bangladesh. However, UK foreign secretary David Lammy on Monday called for a UN-led probe into the unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life in Bangladesh. The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past two weeks, he said in a statement. Read Here: Bangladesh president announces Nobel laureate Yunus as interim govt chief The UKs Immigration Rules have no provision for a person to be allowed to travel to Britain to seek asylum or temporary refuge. It is also not possible for a person to apply for asylum from outside Britain. It is understood the British side believes a person needing international protection should claim asylum in the first country they reach, as this will be the fastest route to safety. In Hasinas case, that country is India. Any asylum claim is also considered on its individual merits by the UK. The people said these developments have cast uncertainty over Hasinas plans to travel to the UK. They said Hasinas team is exploring options for seeking asylum in other countries. One of the countries reportedly being looked at is Finland, where too the former premier has relatives. Other options include Russia, Belarus or a West Asian country, the people said. During an all-party meeting on the situation in Bangladesh on Monday morning, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi asked whether the government has information on Hasinas future plans, people familiar with the discussions said. Jaishankar, who was among the ministers who briefed the gathering, said the Indian side has spoken to Hasina on her future course of action, but it could not be disclosed at the moment. Former Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Tuesday voiced "safety concerns" regarding universities in the US, following an invitation from US Ambassador Eric Garcetti to Indian students to study there. Chandrasekhar, a former Rajya Sabha MP who himself graduated from a US university, addressed the issue of recent violence and targeted intimidation on US campuses. Former Union minister and BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar (PT) Taking to X, the BJP leader wrote, Dear Ambassador @USAmbIndia - as you invite our Young Indians to study in the US. I Am also a U.S. Uni graduate and can testify to some excellent universities in the U.S. But as recent violence and targeted intimidation on US campuses have shown, US campuses aren't the same safe centres of learning anymore, and many Indian parents had to rush their children back to India. So fairs are good but pls do have transparent disclosures of campus safety as well Chandrasekhar responded to a tweet regarding Garcetti's video, in which he discussed the upcoming EducationUSA fair that will be held across various locations in India. Garcetti said, Students and parents, Im thrilled to invite you to our #EducationUSA Fairs, which are taking place all over India this month. This is your chance to meet representatives from more than 80 U.S. universities and learn about admissions, scholarships and much more. Register now to make your dream of studying in the U.S. a reality: https://bit.ly/EdUSAFair24Emb #USIndiaFWD What is EducationUSA fair? EducationUSA is a network established by the US Department of State, comprising over 500 trained advisers at more than 430 international student advising centres across 175 countries and territories. This network aims to promote US higher education globally by providing accurate, comprehensive, and up-to-date information about studying at accredited institutions in the United States. India hosts six EducationUSA advising centres, and this years fair dates in various Indian cities are: Hyderabad - August 16 Chennai - August 17 Bengaluru - August 18 Kolkata - August 19 Ahmedabad - August 21 Pune - August 22 Mumbai - August 24 New Delhi - August 25 One person died and eight others have been rescued after two dilapidated houses collapsed near the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi on Tuesday. The incident took place early in the morning in the Khoya Gali Chowk area of Varanasi. Two houses collapse near Kashi Vishwanath temple; 3 feared trapped, 5 rescued Initially, nine people, including a woman police constable, were trapped under the debris, news agency ANI reported. Following efforts by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team, the constable, along with other trapped persons, have been rescued. The injured persons have been admitted to a nearby hospital. The constable is also undergoing treatment and is stable, police said. The rescue operation is about to finish now. 9 people in the family were trapped; all of them were taken out and sent to a hospital. A woman constable who was on duty here has been injured and sent to the BHU Trauma Centre, where she is out of danger. A woman admitted at Kabir Chaura Hospital has been declared dead in a hospital, ANI quoted Varanasi police commissioner Mohit Agarwal as saying. NDRF DIG MK Sharma told the media that the rescue operations lasted around four hours. We will conduct a final search before closing the rescue operation, he said. According to Varanasi divisional commissioner Kaushal Raj Sharma, their next priority after the end of rescue operations is to clean the debris and restore the supply of water and electricity in the houses. Officials said that the dilapidated houses were around 70 years old, news agency PTI reported. Kaushal Raj Sharma also clarified that no NOCs or permission from the Kashi Vishwanath temple are technically required for any construction or restoration work outside the premises. The construction work of the temple started five years ago and was completed two and half years ago. Permission from temple administration is not required for the construction work of any house outside the premises of the temple, he said. (With inputs from ANI, PTI) India is deeply concerned about the violence and instability in Bangladesh, especially the status of minority communities and Indian nationals, and has established contact with the new dispensation in Dhaka after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina regime, the government informed Parliament on Tuesday. Damaged vehicles following a protest in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Tuesday. (Bloomberg) External affairs minister S Jaishankar, who made suo motu statements on developments in Bangladesh in the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha, said former premier Sheikh Hasina decided to quit after meeting leaders of the security establishment on Monday and sought approval to come to India for the moment. This was the first official word from the government on the situation in Bangladesh, where army chief Gen Waker-uz-Zaman has assumed responsibility for running the country and said an interim government will be formed, and on Hasinas plans since the dramatic collapse of her Awami League government. Read Here: Interim government taking shape in Bangladesh; Muhammad Yunus to lead On Tuesday, Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus said in a statement to AFP that he is ready to head an interim government after student leaders of the protest demanded that he head a caretaker government. Meanwhile, the students leaders also joined consultations on forming the caretaker administration. To be sure, there has been no response from the army, which is effectively in charge of the country now, on either their demand or his offer. While detailing events that led up to Hasinas resignation following weeks of violent protests, Jaishankar revealed that the Indian government had repeatedly counselled restraint and urged that the situation be diffused through dialogue. The Indian government is deeply concerned about the status of Bangladeshs minority communities following reports of attacks on their businesses and temples at multiple locations, he said. He welcomed initiatives by various organisations to protect minorities but said Indias concerns will remain till law and order is visibly restored. Opinion: In Bangladeshs implosion, opportunity for New Delhi Uncertainty surrounded Hasinas reported plans to travel to the UK on Tuesday, and it is understood the British side believes a person needing international protection should claim asylum in the first country they reach. People familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity that Hasina had been moved from Hindon airbase, where she landed in a Bangladesh Air Force aircraft on Monday afternoon, to an unspecified safe location that may be in the vicinity. The people said that Jaishankar told MPs of several political parties on Tuesday that Hasina is a friend of India and would be allowed to remain in the country till she takes a call on her travel plans. The situation in Bangladesh and Hasinas future plans also figured in an all-party meeting, where participants were briefed by a government team that included home minister Amit Shah, defence minister Rajnath Singh and Jaishankar. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, who attended the meeting held behind closed doors, asked whether the government was aware of Hasinas plans and if any foreign forces, particularly China, were linked to the developments in Bangladesh, people aware of the discussions said. Jaishankar told the meeting India has offered help to Hasina and will take necessary steps if the situation in Bangladesh deteriorates, the people said. The government side pointed out that Pakistani diplomats had changed their display pictures on social media to indicate their support to the uprising that ousted Hasina, they said. The people said the opposition parties mainly focused on three issues -- whether the Indian side is in touch with the new dispensation in Dhaka, the steps taken to protect Indian nationals and minority communities in Bangladesh, and border security to cope with any potential escalation. Read Here: Where is Sheikh Hasina seeking asylum? Ex-Bangladesh PM's son clarifies While addressing the two houses of Parliament, Jaishankar said demonstrators had converged in Dhaka on Monday despite a curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign, he said. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday [Monday] evening in Delhi. Indias border guarding forces have been directed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation, and New Delhi is in regular touch with the authorities in Dhaka, Jaishankar said. The people cited above said the Indian side had reached out to the Bangladeshi military, including the army chief, and conveyed its support for efforts to restore normalcy. Jaishankar said the Indian side is monitoring the status of Bangladeshs minorities, whose businesses and temples were attacked at multiple locations. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being. We welcome that but will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored, he added. He said Bangladeshs politics were marked by considerable tension, deep divides and growing polarisation since the election in January, which gave Hasina an unprecedented fourth consecutive term as prime minister. This underlying foundation aggravated a student agitation that started in June...There was growing violence, including attacks on public buildings and infrastructure, as well as traffic and rail obstruction, he said, adding the violence continued during July. Throughout this period, we repeatedly counselled restraint and urged that the situation be diffused through dialogue. Similar urgings were made to various political forces with whom we were in touch, Jaishankar said. Though the protests were launched by students against a controversial quota in government jobs and the quota was struck down by Bangladeshs Supreme Court on July 21, Jaishankar acknowledged that various decisions and actions taken thereafter by Hasinas government only exacerbated the situation. The agitation at this stage coalesced around a one-point agenda, that is that the Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, should step down, he said. The Indian side is also in close touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh. There were an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals, including about 9,000 students, in Bangladesh. The bulk of the students returned to India in July. India expects authorities in Bangladesh to provide the required security to the high commission in Dhaka and assistant high commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna and Sylhet, Jaishankar said. Kiran Gems, a diamond manufacturer in Gujarat's Surat has announced a 10-day vacation from August 17 to 27 for its 50,000 employees as a means to control production to tackle falling global demand, The Indian Express reported. The company also aims to compensate its workers for the 'vacation" (Representative Image) The company said the diamond industry is going through a rough demand patch and there is no demand for polished diamonds in the global market. "We have declared a 10-day holiday so that the production of diamonds can be controlled. Such a decision was taken for the first time in the companys history, said its chairman, Vallabhbhai Lakhani. Also read | Jaipur jeweller who tricked US woman into buying fake diamonds arrested Diamond factories in Gujarat go on long holidays during Diwali. But the unusual announcement is a means to cut down production, which the company believes will control supply and hike prices that will benefit the industry. The company also aims to compensate the workers for their 'vacation days. Its chairman said the production cut can benefit the industry if other diamond companies collectively announce production control measures. Over 50,000 diamond polishers work in my firm out of which 40,000 cut and polish natural diamonds while 10,000 work in the lab-grown diamond unit, Lakhani told Indian Express. He is among the first to relocate his premises from Mumbai to Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB) after it was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2023. The company, which claims to be the worlds largest natural diamond manufacturer and is also among the largest exporters of polished diamonds. With an annual turnover of 17,000 crore, Kiran Gems is one among the authorised buyer of rough diamond of De Beers, one of the leading global diamond companies. Due to falling global demand, De Beers has reported a 15 per cent fall in rough diamond production in second quarter of financial year 2024 compared to first quarter. Jewish artists and storytellers in particular have illustrated the evils of the Holocaust in comic books since the 1940s, including in superhero classics from Captain Marvel to Superman. Art Spiegelman's 'Maus' from 1991 is a classic of the genre (Stephanie Pilick/dpa/picture alliance ) Many superheroes were created by Jewish cartoonists who soon used their characters to invoke the horrors of the Holocaust and the Nazi regime. In 1940, a comic titled "How Superman Would End the War" showed Superman saying to Hitler: "I'd like to land a strictly non-Aryan sock on your jaw." According to the Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh, Josef Goebbels, Nazi minister of propaganda, denounced Superman as a Jew soon after. ALSO READ: Dealing with Holocaust trauma through music Superheros take on the Nazis Captain America was already hitting menacing Hitler-esque Nazi characters in comics from the early 1940s. Such fascist villains also featured in animated books like Dr. Seuss during the war years. And stories of Jewish resistance in concentration camps emerged as themes in Superman and Captain Marvel after the war. The Captain Marvel story was the first superhero comic to actually feature the Holocaust, according to Holocast scholar Rafeal Medoff, co-author of "We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust." ALSO READ: European Roma Holocaust Remembrance Day: A personal account And it was no coincidence that Marvel comics were often authored and illustrated by Jewish artists, including the prolific writer and illustrator team, Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. Medoff describes how Captain Marvel's partner Rick Jones meets an Auschwitz survivor before confronting a deranged scientist who is trying to implement Nazi-style social engineering. The 2018 book "We Spoke Out," also authored by Neal Adams and Craig Yoe, shows how comics helped younger Americans growing up in the 1960s and 1970s better understand a Holocaust they weren't taught about at school far fewer youth can likely comprehend this history today. These earlier Holocaust-themed works coincided with what the comics scholar Markus Streb called the "Golden Age of Comic Books" from 1938 to 1955. Streb notes how German concentration camps found their way into comic books in the 1940s, with the most popular superhero genre hinting at the atrocities committed in the camps. Then by 1979, the fourth part of a Marvel novel series titled "Captain America: Holocaust for Hire," updated the Hitler narrative to describe how the superhero had to stop an army of neo-Nazis using a new destructive weapon to establish a Fourth Reich. ALSO READ: HT Editorial| Why we must never forget the Holocaust 'Master Race' explores the fear of a Holocaust survivor The comic Golden Age was capped by the 1955 classic "Master Race," regarded as the first US comic to depict Nazi atrocities and featuring a swastika on the front cover. Released by US publisher EC, "Master Race" was written by Al Feldstein and illustrated by Bernard Krigstein and tells the story of Carl Weismann, a German who escaped the Belsen concentration camp and moved the US but could not escape his nightmarish past. "You'll always be afraid, you'll keep remembering keep remembering the horror the hate the suffering," states the narrator as Weismann sits on a train and soon faces his death camp nemesis. Auschwitz is name checked in the first volume of the Captain Marvel series from the 1960s, when the titular character is saved by a Jacob Weiss, a survivor of the notorious Auschwitz camp in Poland who sacrificed his life for Marvel's partner. The X-Men comic from the 1980s also revealed how the villain Magneto was an Auschwitz survivor. ALSO READ: International Holocaust Remembrance Day has special significance for young people with Jewish roots in Poland 'Maus' brings Holocaust to the masses Art Spiegelman's "Maus" is a Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel and thinly-veiled metaphor for the Holocaust as it depicts Jews as anthropomorphic mice, the Nazis as blood-thirsty cats and Poles at pigs. Inspired by the author's Polish Jewish parents who survived the Nazi concentration camps, his comics were published in installments in the 1970s and 80s and finally as a graphic novel in 1991. "Maus" is based on hours of interviews the artist recorded with his father, Vladek, in the 1970s his mother committed suicide in 1968. But Spiegelman was severely criticized for his choice of symbolism and for presenting the story as a graphic novel. Critics said he was breaking taboos, that the complex story of the Holocaust couldn't simply be told in the form of a comic. Spiegelman replied that he could only deal with this story through his art. How then does a son, born just three years after the end of the war in Sweden before moving to New York, react to a father's horrific memories, both on a professional and personal level? For Spiegelman, it was "Maus," which was sometimes published as "Maus: A Survivor's Tale." Ironically, the book was banned in a Tennessee school district in 2022. In response, Spiegelman, in an interview with MSNBC, called the ban "an echo of the 1930s book burnings in Germany." Hariyali Teej, celebrated on 7th August this year in North India, in the states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, is marked by colourful outfits and traditional customs and activities. On the third day of Shravan during Shukla Paksha, Hariyali Teej is observed. Its a holy occasion for married women as they seek blessings from Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati to protect their marital lives from all evils. Women fast all day for the long life of their spouses and family. Unmarried women also partake in the fast in the hope of finding good husband. Green outfits are chosen on this auspicious occasion as a homage to nature. Hariyali Teej is a social activity for all the women observing the fast. ALSO READ: When is Hariyali Teej 2024? Know date, shubh muhurat, puja rituals, history and significance Significance of Mehendi The day before the festival, women adorn their palms with mehendi. They spend hours leaving the palms undisturbed to let the mehendi darken and the design appear vibrant. Mehendi is a custom to seek blessings from Goddess Parvati, the divine embodiment of marital peace and bliss. Mehendi is believed to promote marital well-being and harmony. Applying mehendi also fosters a sense of bond and community, bringing women together as they sing, dance, and share stories to celebrate their married lives. Its a social activity that gathers large groups of women. Trendy Mehendi Designs Floral design You can never go wrong with a simple floral design, With intricate swirls, petals, and leaves being the highlight of the design, its perfect for paying tribute to nature and goes well with the signature green attire worn on Hariyali Teej. Dainty geometric design This design features a fusion of dainty floral design with bold geometric shapes. It also gives a minimalistic appearance, as it focuses more on delicate design shapes than filling up the space. With a space devoid of mehendi in the design, the borders around the space create an illusion of a temple arch. This minimalistic design with the temple arch pattern is ideal for a holy festival like Hariyali Teej. Artistic design Go full artistic this holy season and create art styles that depict you and your husband.It shows your devotion and love towards your life partner and they will surely be over the moon with this design. Animal patterns like swans, peacocks, and elephants in the mehendi design symbolise love and devotion. Alternatively, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati or Lord Krishna-Radha motifs can also be incorporated into the design. If you want to opt for a simpler design, a lady in a swing is perfect to pay tribute to one of the quintessential activities of Hariyali Teej among women. ALSO READ: Hiroshima Day 2024: Date, history, significance and observance of 79th year of World War II atomic bombings Hariyali Teej is a lively and important Hindu festival, especially celebrated in North India, including states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Bihar. This festival is marked by fasting, prayers, colourful clothing, and cultural activities centred around marital happiness and the beginning of the monsoon season. On this day, women fast and perform rituals to receive blessings from Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for marital joy, prosperity, and well-being. Traditionally, women wear green attire, embellish themselves with elaborate jewellery, and partake in flower-adorned swinging ceremonies. From date to time, scroll down to learn more about this auspicious occasion. (Also read: Hiroshima Day 2024: Date, history, significance and observance of 79th year of World War II atomic bombings ) Hariyali Teej also known as Shraavana Teej is a festival of the Hindus dedicated to Goddess Parvati and her union with Lord Shiva. (HT Photo/Keshav Singh) Hariyali Teej 2024 Date and Timings Hariyali Teej, typically observed two days before Nag Panchami, is celebrated on Shukla Paksha Tritiya in the month of Shravana in honour of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to the Gregorian calendar, this year, the festival will be observed on Wednesday, August 7. According to Drik Panchang, the auspicious timings to observe the occasion are as follows: Tritiya Tithi Begins - 19:52 on August 06, 2024 Tritiya Tithi Ends - 22:05 on August 07, 2024 Hariyali Teej 2024 Puja Vidhi On this day, the house is thoroughly cleaned, sanitised, and decorated with flowers. A Shiv Lingam, along with idols of Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganesha, is placed in the home. The deities are worshipped in a sixteen-step ceremony, and the Puja lasts all night. Women observe a Nirjala Vrat (fast) on Hariyali Teej, refraining from eating or drinking anything for the entire day. Both married and single women can observe this fast. Married women do so to seek blessings for wealth, harmony, and the long life of their spouse and family, while unmarried women fast in hopes of finding a good husband and having a happy marriage. After 24 hours, once all the rituals of the Hariyali Teej Puja and Vrat are completed, women can drink water. Hariyali Teej 2024 History According to legend, Parvati went through 107 reincarnations before finally marrying Shiva on her 108th birth during Shukla Paksha Tritiya of Shravan. In her past lives, she renounced worldly ties and lived on dry leaves to win Shiva's love, though he remained unaware due to his vow of celibacy. To get his attention, Parvati travelled to the Himalayas and made a Shiva Lingam from sand, symbolising her unwavering love. Touched by her devotion, Shiva appeared, granted her wish, and accepted her as his wife because of her sincere fasting and rituals. This festival celebrates the belief that women who observe the fast with sincerity receive blessings from Shiva and Parvati. Hariyali Teej 2024 Significance Hariyali Teej holds great significance for married women, as it is believed that fasting on this day ensures the long life and well-being of their husbands. Wearing all 16 traditional ornaments is thought to protect their spouse from harm, a tradition especially cherished by newlyweds. Unmarried girls also take part in the festivities, praying for a good husband. The festival also celebrates the monsoon season, known for its lush greenery. Women dress in green attire, symbolising the vibrancy of nature. Black coloured mucus or phlegm coughed up can be a serious sign of an underlying illness. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Vidit Kapoor, Assistant Professor, Medical Oncology, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Faridabad aid, Black mucus can be a symptom of various environmental exposures, infections or more severe conditions like lung cancer. Persistent or recurrent black mucus should prompt urgent medical consultation to rule out malignancy and initiate appropriate treatment. Early detection of lung cancer significantly improves prognosis and treatment outcomes. Black coloured mucus or phlegm coughed up can be a serious sign of an underlying illness(Unsplash) ALSO READ: Alarming rise of lung cancer in non-smoking Indians more than Westerners: Understanding the disparity What causes black mucus? Smoking: Tobacco use: India has a significant population of smokers, including use of beedis and cigarettes, which can lead to black mucus due to tar and other harmful substances in the smoke. Coal mining: Workers in coal mines are at risk of developing pneumoconiosis (black lung disease) due to coal dust inhalation. Construction industry: Labourers exposed to dust and industrial pollutants may develop respiratory issues, leading to black mucus. Roadside pollution: Proximity to heavily trafficked roads increases exposure to vehicular emissions and dust. Crop burning: Seasonal agricultural burning, especially in states like Punjab and Haryana, releases large amounts of particulate matter into the air, contributing to respiratory distress and black mucus. Tuberculosis: India has a high prevalence of tuberculosis, which can cause blood stained or dark mucus. Fungal infections: Conditions like Aspergillosis, more common in humid and unsanitary environments, can lead to black mucus. ALSO READ: Brain metastasis from lung cancer: Symptoms, treatments, and prognosis Black mucus as a sign of lung cancer: Tumour growth: Lung cancer can cause necrosis (death of tissue) and bleeding within the lungs. The breakdown of blood and lung tissue can lead to dark or black coloured mucus. Obstruction and infection: Tumours may obstruct airways, leading to secondary infections that produce dark mucus. ALSO READ: Lung Cancer Awareness Month 2022: Easily ignored lung cancer symptoms Chronic symptoms of lung cancer caused by black mucus Persistent cough: A persistent cough that produces black mucus may indicate an underlying cancer. It is often accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath. Weight loss and fatigue: Unexplained weight loss, fatigue and a persistent cough with black mucus can be warning signs of lung cancer. Hemoptysis: The presence of blood in mucus, turning it dark or black can result from tumour invasion into blood vessels. Early detection and diagnosis: Medical evaluation: persistent black mucus warrants a medical evaluation, including imaging (X-rays, CT scans etc) and sputum analysis to determine the underlying cause and check for a hidden cancer. Biopsy: If lung cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be performed to confirm diagnosis and determine the cancer type. ALSO READ: World Lung Cancer Day: 7 ways to reduce the risk There is a conspiracy theory about Bangladesh thats doing the rounds in parts of the Indian political Right and national security establishment. Dhaka : People gather around the residence of Bangladeshi prime minister in Dhaka, Bangladesh, 05 August 2024. (EPA-EFE) Here is what is being suggested: The United States (US) is responsible for the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. The American deep State was always unhappy with the Awami League and, therefore, both publicly and privately, overtly and covertly, was backing the political opposition and protests. The US wants to have a pliable regime in Dhaka that can be used as leverage against India; it is all a part of a US design to both use India but also keep India unstable so that India never grows strong enough. And one way to do that to keep the region in ferment by encouraging unrest. Dhaka is evidence. This theory is born out of a kernel of fact and is then layered with dollops of fiction or at least claims that have no basis in evidence. Here is whats true. The Americans havent been good at reading Bangladesh in general and have limited credibility when it comes to the country. Washington DC can never live down its role in 1971 and its active complicity in abetting a genocide in East Pakistan. Its role in undermining Indian security remains embedded in the consciousness of every Indian official. And the US has no moral ground to speak of human rights abuses or democratic aspirations, when it is abetting unprecedented Israeli brutality in Gaza and crushing the Palestinian right to self-determination at the moment. It is also true that the US has, for close to two decades now, been uncomfortable with Hasinas dominance in American politics. It played favourites, especially by politically encouraging Grameen Bank founder Muhammad Yunus, at a time of internal churn when the army was in charge. But Americans had also been making what was a strong policy argument. And that went something like this: Hasina is authoritarian. But her consistent crackdown of the opposition, of civil liberties, and her manipulation of the electoral game through State capture was leading to a severe crisis of legitimacy, especially at a time when popular disillusionment was growing. This was what was behind the refusal to invite Bangladesh to the summit of democracy, a decision steeped in characteristic American hypocrisy given that Pakistan was invited. It was also behind the repetitive criticisms of Dhaka by US state department spokespersons, thanks to the persistence of a few Bangladeshi political activists masquerading as journalists in DC, at press briefings, giving the impression that the US was way more invested in the issue than it really was. India was making its own good-faith argument to the US. It told the Americans directly that DCs assessment was wrong, that it was overestimating Hasinas authoritarian bent and underestimating the links between the opposition and Islamists, and that Hasinas replacement wouldnt be a liberal paradise but chaos and extremism. India had real security interests at play, this wasnt a distant debate, and after decades, there was relative peace on its eastern frontier thanks to a friendly Dhaka. The US must not do anything to jeopardise it. Events have shown both sides had a point. Hasina had a real crisis of legitimacy and couldnt last, as the US warned. Hasinas exit is leading to greater violence, including against minorities, and may see extremism get State support in a future dispensation, as India warned. One can agree or disagree with the American argument. But while making its point, given that Hasina did conduct and win three extremely flawed elections thanks to Indian support, it appears that the US let India take the lead. This doesnt mean it didnt support the opposition who knows what American intelligence really did. But it means that over-reading a policy disagreement as a deep US conspiracy to undermine India is theorising of the kind that doesnt help national security decision-making. Hasina had an interest in telling Indian officials that the US was undermining her to undermine India and even told interlocutors that the US was doing the same directly in the Northeast. Indian officials who have advocated for Hasina and underplayed the domestic challenges she confronted had an interest in telling their political bosses that it was all due to the American hand. And Bangladeshi opposition figures had an interest in playing up the support they got from the West. But think about it logically. At a time when the US has invested an extraordinary amount of geopolitical capital in deepening ties with India due to a shared threat from China in Indias east, how does Washington benefit in undermining India in precisely the east? At a time when Chinese ingress in the Indian neighbourhood has led to much deeper cooperation between Delhi and Washington DC across South Asian capitals, with both sides benefiting, how does it help the US to minimise Indian influence in Dhaka? At a time when both countries have spent two decades deepening cooperation against Islamist terror, how does it help the US to actively encourage an extremist regime in Dhaka? At a time when the US and India agree that Myanmars situation is dire even if they, like in the case of Dhaka, disagree on what to do about it how does it help to create instability right next door? The situation in Bangladesh is grim. Helping the country embark on a political pathway that is both democratic and moderate and does not lead to an expanded Chinese role all shared goals requires Delhi and DC to work together with urgency and seriousness. Both governments know that. The public sphere needs to treat the difference on Bangladesh between India and the US as just that, a genuine difference that came from different histories and different judgments. Dont treat that difference to manufacture conspiracies and deepen distrust. That will only help Bangladeshi extremists, China and Pakistan. The views expressed are personal Listed real estate firm Valor Estate, formerly known as DB Realty, plans to launch three to four projects in the ongoing fiscal, including residential, commercial and hospitality projects across Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), said Vinod Goenka, chairman and MD of Valor Estate.(Valor Estate) Listed real estate firm Valor Estate, formerly known as DB Realty, plans to launch three to four projects in the ongoing fiscal, including residential, commercial and hospitality projects across Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The company said it plans to focus on 1BHK to 4 BHK apartments in the price range of 1 to 5 crore, said Vinod Goenka, chairman and MD of Valor Estate. According to Goenka, the Mumbai real estate market has shown resilience despite recent challenges. "While there has been a moderate slowdown in the ultra-luxury segment, the mid-segment and affordable housing sectors continue to witness robust demand." "Our projects are located across Mumbai's prime locations, such as South Mumbai, Central Mumbai, and the suburbs. The projects slated for FY25 will be joint ventures with reputed developers," said Goenka. The company recently tied up with L&T Realty for a project in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai. Macrotech Developers, also known as Lodha, had also recently announced that it was exploring an association with the company for a project in Mumbai. Also Read: Once scam-tainted, DB Realtys promoter is at the top of the JV game today The company has partnered with several players like Bengaluru Prestige Estates, Rustomjee Group and Godrej Properties in the past. Launches across luxury, mid and affordable segments The company plans to launch housing projects across all three segments, including luxury, mid segment and affordable. "The configurations of our upcoming launches in FY25 will be varied to meet diverse market preferences. We anticipate a strong demand for 2-3 BHK apartments, which are ideal for both nuclear families and young professionals. Additionally, our projects will offer 1 BHK units for first-time buyers to spacious 4 BHK units for larger families or investors seeking premium options," said Goenka. Also Read: Budget 2024: How removing indexation benefits for capital gains tax on property may impact the Mumbai real estate market New launches to suit all pockets According to the company, housing projects expected to be launched in FY25 are likely to cater to homebuyers across the segments. "Prices will range from 1crore to 5 crore. This range ensures that we can appeal to a wide spectrum of buyers while maintaining our commitment to quality and value," he said. Also Read: 15 real estate firms, including DLF, figure in the list of Indias most valuable companies Renaming exercise The company on March 9, 2024, had decided to rename DB Realty to Valor Estate. According to the company, the change of name is part of the rebranding exercise. With rebranding, we aim to position Valor Estate as a trusted brand synonymous with innovation, sustainability, and customer-centricity," said Goenka. DB Realty was founded in the year 2007 and its portfolio comprises over 100 million sq. ft of prime property across 35 projects. Most of the projects are based in and around Mumbai and are under various stages of planning and construction. Thousands of protesters in Bangladesh looted and vandalised Sheikh Hasina's official residence in the capital city of Dhaka on Monday even as the politician resigned as the country's Prime Minister and flew to India. Bangladesh protesters looted Sheikh Hasina's official residence, carrying out furniture and even fish from the kitchens. (X) Monday's violence followed weeks of protests against a quota system for government jobs as well as a protest against Hasina's 15-year rule. Thousands of demonstrators stormed her official residence and other buildings associated with her party and family. Viral photos showed the unruly mob parading the streets holding up personal belongings such as bras and a blouse. One of the men was seen wearing a saree and walking out with a plastic bucket filled with clothes. Another young man held up a purple blouse. The looting and parading of personal belongings was condemned by social media users. Throughout the day, people continued to pour into and out of Ganabhaban, the official residence of the Bangladesh Prime Minister, where they set fires, carried out furniture and pulled raw fish from the refrigerators. People were seen leaving the building with cattle, television sets, blanket, gym equipment and even a blue Dior suitcase. (Also Read: Woman loots Dior suitcase from Sheikh Hasinas house in Bangladesh amid protest. Viral photo). "I am inside the Ganabhaban Palace," Bangladeshi journalist Yeasir Arafat told news agency AFP. "There are more than 1,500 people inside the palace. They are breaking furniture and glasses". Where is Sheikh Hasina? Sheikh Hasina, 76, landed at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad, near Delhi, on Monday evening, hours after she resigned as the prime minister of Bangladesh. She and her sister had left Ganabhavan in Dhaka in a military chopper. After Hasina resigned, Bangladesh's military was in control of the country. The veteran politician had been in power since 2009 but was accused of rigging elections in January and then watched millions of people take to the streets over the past month demanding she step down. Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country after violent protests erupted. Following her resignation, she flew to Hindon Airport, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. Next, she will be flying to London. Thousands of Bangladeshi protesters stormed the palace of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka on August 5, 2024, as she had fled after mass demonstrations demanding that she quit.(AFP) Amid the unrest, it has come to light that an Indian astrologer predicted Sheikh Hasina's situation in December 2023. Astrologer Prashant Kini posted that Sheikh Hasina needs to careful in May, June, July and August of 2024 as she may face assassination attempts. Later, Kini reshared the old post and wrote, "I have already predicted Sheikh Haseena will be in trouble in August 2024. Will she flee her country?" (Also Read: Woman loots Dior suitcase from Sheikh Hasinas house in Bangladesh amid protest. Viral photo) Take a look at her post here: This post was shared on August 5. Since being posted, it has gained more than 2.6 million views. The share also has numerous likes and comments. Here's how people reacted to it: An individual wrote, "What a prediction it was." Another person added, "Impressive work!" "Please predict my life it's more important than Bangladesh," joked a third. More on Bangladesh unrest: Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country when violent student demonstrators invaded her official residence. This marks the conclusion of the Awami League and Shiekh Hasina's 15-year reign in office. Bangladesh army chief Waker-uz-Zaman declared that the military would assist in building an interim administration and called for peace to restore tranquillity in the country. Violent protests over a contentious government quota system that allocated 30% of government positions for the relatives of veterans of the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War have been taking place in Bangladesh since the first week of July. The Supreme Court reduced the reservation system to 5% after the administration appealed the high court's ruling to reinstate the scheme. A man living in Hyderabad took to Reddit to share an adversity he recently experienced. The man shared how his flat mates wanted to remove their house help just because she could not communicate with them in Hindi. After posting and detailing about the incident, the Reddit user also asked people if they had been in similar situations. Tenants in Hyderabad wanted to remove house help as she could not speak in Hindi. (Pixabay) "So I live in a 3BHK with two other flat mates. Both of them can't speak Telugu, and they moved into the flat 2 months ago. We have a Telugu-speaking maid who cleans well, better than most of the maids in our area. She's been working in the flat for the past 1.5 years. Now, these guys want to replace her just for the sole reason she can't speak Hindi, and they can't understand Telugu. It's not like they can't communicate to her at all. Maid understands Hindi, and I will be there most of the time to translate." He further added that his house help was left in tears when he explained the situation. Take a look at the post here: This post was shared a few days ago on the platform. Since being posted, it has gained more than 800 upvotes, and the numbers are only increasing. The share also has numerous likes and comments. Here's how people reacted to it: An individual wrote, "I speak Hindi. Our maid speaks Telugu. She works really well. I never had a communication problem with her because my other two flatmates speak Telugu. The maid already knows what she has to do so, I don't really have to tell her anything. One time, I wanted something so I used Google translator. Your roommates are being cheap. Letting go of a poor maid just because of language is so wrong. She is a localite; we came from other states, we should be the one learning Telugu. Reading your other comment where you mentioned your roommates deducted some money for the maid not coming because of her being sick is so wrong! Your roommates don't have any empathy towards poor people." A second said, "Replacing a maid due to language is the last thing I will do. I am wondering if they have a real job." "Stand your ground and stand up for her. It's not her fault for not knowing a language that is not her own. Blast at your friends for being immature," commented a third. A cabin crew member with SpiceJet claims he has not been assigned any flight duties for a month after he submitted complaints regarding the work pressure taking a hit on his mental health. He told hindustantimes.com that after joining SpiceJet, his mental health declined. He also expressed his fear of speaking against the airline. The SpiceJet cabin crew member claimed that he faced mental health issues at work. (AFP File Photo) "I come from a middle-class family. I am extremely scared, and speaking against the company is a very bold step for me," the man said. He further said he wrote multiple emails to the airline regarding his mental health, but it was all in vain. He claimed that in his first email, he raised issues such as delayed salary and allowances, delayed flight schedules, no provident fund (PF) being submitted, harsh working conditions, and more. After being vocal about these problems, he shared that he was grounded and removed from flight schedules. Three days after being grounded, he was called for a meeting with the HR team. However, he claimed that he was not given any solution. "The HR did not have any answer regarding my email," he told HT.com. Later, he was promised another meeting with the Vice President of Inflight Service, a department that handles cabin crews and pilots, but again, he did not receive any communication. (Also Read: Lice outbreak forces emergency landing of New York-bound American Airlines flight) "I wrote a third email regarding my mental health, which was again ignored. I became suicidal at one point. Then, I started to post my struggles on social media. The company left me alone and gave me no response. I was even removed from the company's WhatsApp group. They removed all communication with me." Things escalated when he became vocal about his issues on Instagram. In a viral video, he claimed that SpiceJet was not paying the employees on time and joked about driving an e-rickshaw due to salary delays. Following the video, his official work email was removed. After this, the cabin crew member also shared his concerns regarding supporting his family. "My father is retired; they don't know that all of this is happening. What do I tell them?" "I feel numb and depressed. Since July 3, I've been sitting at home and have not been given any information regarding my job. Is it right to break communication with an employee? HR has completely stopped communicating with me. I am very worried." He emphasised that SpiceJet has not given him any termination notice. How did SpiceJet respond to this employee's allegations? HT.com reached out to SpiceJet for a comment. The SpiceJet spokesperson said, "We want to clarify that Mr Deepak Goswami is no longer an employee of SpiceJet. It is important to address the facts accurately, as disgruntled former employees may make baseless allegations to defame the company. This is a situation that can happen to any organisation, including yours. Mr Goswami's employment was terminated due to multiple instances of grave misconduct and disciplinary issues, as documented in two warning letters in the past five months. Despite receiving multiple warnings and opportunities to improve, his behaviour continued to violate company policies." The airline further added, "Mr Goswami joined the company in February 2024. He operated his last flight with SpiceJet on July 1 and was grounded on July 3 on disciplinary grounds and involvement in anti-company activities. Despite this, he was called for a meeting on July 8 and given a fair chance to explain his actions. Following this meeting, he began posting videos in uniform on social media. When called for another meeting to discuss these actions, he refused to attend. SpiceJet adheres strictly to its policies, and the actions taken against Mr Goswami were in line with these regulations. Any claims made by him are attempts to gain publicity by maligning SpiceJet, and we will take appropriate measures to address this defamation." WWE star and actor John Cena praised the food served to guests at the wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant, saying the spice levels were "just enough to break a small sweat". Cena, who attended the star-studded wedding festivities in Mumbai last month, said he looks forward to trying out spicy Indian food during his next visit to the country. John Cena strikes a pose at the Ambani wedding in a light blue bandhagala kurta and white pants. He styled the look with tan brown dress shoes.(HT Photo/Varinder Chawla) "The Ambani wedding had its fair share of cuisine, but they also did Indian food and Indian street food very well. The food was fantastic. I had a short stay...I would love to go back and be able to try some more Indian food," he told news agency ANI over a Zoom video call. The level of spice was just enough for me, just enough to break a small sweat. So I can't wait to try to test my spice meter when I come back. I look forward to returning soon. The American celebrity's presence added to the star value of the big fat wedding which had other global personalities such as Kim Kardashian and Khloe Kardashian in attendance, apart from top Indian actors and Bollywood A-listers. Anant Ambani, the younger son of Mukesh and Nita Ambani, married Radhika Merchant on July 12. The wedding was a culmination of extravagant pre-wedding celebrations this year in India and abroad. The week leading up to the wedding also saw a string of ceremonies in Mumbai, including a sangeet that had pop star Justin Bieber performing for guests. Global delicacies to Varanasi chaat at Ambani wedding The Ambanis served a range of cuisines at Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant's wedding. Apart from global delicacies, there was also the famous chaat (street food) from Varanasi, in line with the overall decor theme of the wedding. Iconic Banarasi foods such as Banarasi chaat, traditional sweets, lassi, chai and khari (crispy puff pastry) and paan and mukhwas (mouth freshener) were available for guests to try. Passengers on a Thai Airways flight TG 917 experienced panic attacks and gasped for air after the plane was halted for two hours due to an air conditioning system problem. As per reports, the incident occurred on July 25 on a Boeing 777, which was flying from London to Bangkok. As a result, passengers were locked inside the plane in heat and had crew members helping them. The flight was eventually cancelled entirely. The Thai Airways flight was cancelled after the problem did not resolve. (AP PHOTO.) What happened on the flight? Lamented Warawalan Maksaen, 26, a student at the University of Exeter, recounted her experience on the plane and told the New York Post, "People were stuck on the plane and couldn't leave. We were hot and couldn't breathe. At least in a sauna, you can leave when you want. This was like a form of torture." Another passenger stated that the conditions were so hot that fliers began sweating heavily, and one allegedly had a panic episode. To make matters worse, Maksaen claims no food or water was offered throughout this time. After two hours, a flight attendant offered water in the kitchen and opened the door to allow fresh air in. (Also Read: 'I was suicidal': SpiceJet cabin crew alleges retaliation after raising mental health issues, airline reacts) What solution were the passengers given? Due to the airport's curfew, no technicians were accessible, thus the passengers were forced to deplane at 11 pm after being kept aboard the searing hot aircraft. While the flight was rescheduled for the following day, passengers were given two options- they could either wait at the airport for the next flight, or take a bus and go to a hotel. "There was no help from the airline, and the last group of passengers waited aimlessly until the last three buses arrived at 2 am," said Maksaen. The 26-year-old also informed that the flight only provided eight rooms and that families were prioritised, so she was left alone to find a hotel. (Also Read: Lice outbreak forces emergency landing of New York-bound American Airlines flight) However, when she re-boarded the flight the next day at 3:45 pm the engine failed to start, forcing passengers to wait inside the plane before disembarking again. They were ultimately allowed to board the plane again at 6:49 pm. Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus was on Tuesday appointed as the head of Bangladesh's interim government by President Mohammed Shahabuddin, a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country following deadly protests against her government over a controversial quota system in jobs. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus (AP/File) The decision was made in a meeting of President Shahabuddin with chiefs of the three services and a 13-member delegation of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement at Bangabhaban tonight, President's Press Secretary Md. Joynal Abedin said. "The President named Dr Yunus as the chief adviser of the interim government," he announced after the four-hour-long meeting. He added that the names of the advisers of the interim cabinet would be announced later after discussion with different political parties. According to the state-run BSS news agency, the president wished for the inclusion of at least one 1971 Liberation War veteran as an adviser of the cabinet. During the meeting, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Navy Chief Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, Dhaka University Law Department Professor Asif Nazrul and International Relations Department Professor Tanzim Uddin Khan were present. Yunus, 84, is currently out of the country but welcomed the ouster of Sheikh Hasinas regime, describing the development as the second liberation" of the country. Yunus won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his anti-poverty campaign through the Grameen Bank, a mode; which was replicated across continents. He had been in a protracted row with Hasinas government due to obscure reasons while authorities initiated a series of investigations against him after she came to power in 2008. Bangladesh authorities launched a review of the statutory Grameen Bank's activities in 2011 and fired Yunus as its founding managing director on charges of violating the government retirement regulation. He was charged under dozens of cases. In January, Yunus was sentenced to six months in jail by a court on charges of labour law violation. Many people believe Hasina became enraged when Yunus announced that he would form a political party in 2007 when the country was run by a military-backed government and Hasina was in prison. Yunus, however, did not follow through on the plan but at that time he criticised Bangladeshi politicians alleging they were only interested in money. Sheikh Hasina Bangladesh News Highlights: Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule as Bangladesh's prime minister ended Monday as she fled following over a month of deadly protests. The military announced it would form an interim government. Since early July, Hasina had tried to suppress nationwide protests against her government. However, after brutal unrest on Sunday that left nearly 100 people dead, she fled the country....Read More Her exit followed a crackdown on demonstrations that initially protested preferential job quotas but grew into a movement demanding her resignation, resulting in hundreds of deaths. Bangladesh crisis latest updates Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved the parliament on Tuesday to pave the way for an interim administration. This decision came a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country amidst massive protests against her government. External affairs minister S Jaishankar informed an all-party meeting on Tuesday that Bangladeshi leader Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India after resigning as prime minister amid massive protests in her country, was in shock over the recent developments, sources reported. On Tuesday, student leaders in Bangladesh called for Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to head a caretaker government, following the military's takeover after widespread demonstrations forced the longtime ruler Sheikh Hasina to flee the country. Bangladesh's first female leader, Khaleda Zia, was released from house arrest on Tuesday, a day after her rival Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister and fled the country. This event marks yet another chapter in the long-standing "Battle of the Begums" for dominance in Bangladesh. The office of President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced that Khaleda, the head of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party, was freed following discussions with defence chiefs and political leaders. President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced an interim government would be formed soon after dissolving parliament and ordered the release of former prime minister Khaleda Zia. The World Bank said it is assessing the impact of events in Bangladesh on its loan program after Hasina's resignation and departure. The United States called for calm and urged a democratic and inclusive process for forming the interim government, encouraging all parties to refrain from violence. West Bengal Police urged people to avoid sharing provocative videos amid the crisis in Bangladesh. West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose assured that the Bangladesh-West Bengal borders are secure and effective measures will be taken to stop unauthorized entry into India. Where is Sheikh Hasina? Sheikh Hasina resigned as Bangladesh's prime minister and arrived in India on Monday evening following mounting protests. She discussed the current situation in Bangladesh and her future plans with India's national security advisor, Ajit Doval, at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad. Ex-prime minister Sheikh Hasina's dramatic flight from Bangladesh in a helicopter on Monday under pressure from protesters and the army is far from a first in the South Asian nation. Sheikh Hasina came to power for the first time in 1996 when Awami League defeated BNP.(Reuters) Since independence half a century ago, many of the country's leaders have been forced to flee or had their time in office cut short by violent deaths. Here's a look back at five key points in Bangladesh's turbulent history. 1975: Assassinations and coups galore Formerly East Pakistan, Bangladesh emerged as a new nation in 1971 after a brutal war involving India. Independence hero Sheikh Mujibur Rahman became the country's first prime minister, before introducing a one-party system and taking office as president in January 1975. Within a year he was assassinated by a group of soldiers on August 15, along with his wife and three sons. Khondaker Mostaq Ahmad, with the support of part of the army, then took power. Ahmad's tenure was short-lived. He was overthrown in a coup instigated by the army's chief of staff Khaled Mosharraf on November 3, who was assassinated in turn by rival mutineers. After a series of further coups and counter-coups, General Ziaur Rahman took power on November 7. 1981-83 : Bloody rebellion, bloodless coup After less than six years in power, Rahman was assassinated during an attempted revolt on May 30, 1981. His vice-president Abdus Sattar took over as interim president with the backing of General Hussain Muhammad Ershad. ALSO READ | Sheikh Hasina resignation updates: Why ousted PM chose India after fleeing Bangladesh But Ershad turned on Sattar within a year, ousting him in a bloodless coup on March 24, 1982. Immediately after the takeover, he imposed martial law and installed Ahsanuddin Chowdhury as president. Then, on December 11, 1983, Ershad proclaimed himself head of state. Chowdhury, whose position was honorary, went on to lead a political party loyal to the general. 1990: Ershad resigns after protests After a wave of protests calling for democracy in Bangladesh, Ershad resigned as president on December 6, 1990. He was then arrested on December 12 and jailed after being convicted for corruption. Justice Minister Shahabuddin Ahmed took over as interim leader until elections could be held the year after. Ershad would eventually be released in January 1997. 1991: First free elections The country's first free elections were held in early 1991, with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) running out as clear winners. Khaleda Zia, General Ziaur Rahman's widow, became Bangladesh's first woman prime minister. She was succeeded by her arch-rival Sheikh Hasina, daughter of the country's founding father Mujibur Rahman, after Hasina's Awami League beat the BNP at the ballot box in 1996. The BNP returned to power in 2001, with Zia once again becoming prime minister and completing her term of office in October 2006. 2007: Anti-corruption purge In 2007, with the army's support, President Iajuddin Ahmed declared a state of emergency after anti-government demonstrations. A military-led transitional government then launched an anti-corruption purge, imprisoning both Hasina and Zia on graft allegations before their release in 2008. After her party's win in the polls in December 2008, Hasina once again became prime minister. Toronto: The Canadian government has called for a quick and peaceful return to a democratic and inclusive civilian-led government in Bangladesh in a statement on Monday evening following the departure of Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister, fleeing Dhaka and an interim dispensation assuming charge. Anti-government protesters celebrate outside the Bangladesh Parliament after getting the news of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Monday (AP) In a statement released by Global Affairs Canada, the countrys foreign ministry, Minister of Foreign Affairs Melanie Joly said, As a country committed to democracy, inclusive governance and the rule of law, Canada calls for a quick and peaceful return to a democratic and inclusive civilian-led government in Bangladesh. We urge the people of Bangladesh to unite around the principles of freedom and democracy upon which their country was founded. Sheikh Hasina resigned and left the country after weeks of quota protests turned violent leaving hundreds dead. Respect for fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly, are critical for democratic governance and to build peaceful and prosperous societies, Joly added. Ottawa also urged all parties to respect and uphold democratic institutions and processes and the rule of law and a full and impartial investigation into the crimes committed during the tumultuous phase. Canada strongly condemns the human rights violations, deaths, torture, arbitrary arrests and lethal force used against the people of Bangladesh in recent weeks. We reiterate our deep condolences to all those impacted, Joly said, while calling for maintenance of full Internet access in the country. Meanwhile, Canadian MP Shuvaloy Majumdar, who is of Bengali heritage, posted on X that he shared the anxiety so many Canadian Bengalis are now experiencing, and call for calm and stability in Bangladesh. Bangladesh today descends into the anarchy and atrocities deeply reminiscent of my own familys experience more than fifty years ago. Religious minorities - Bengali Hindus and Christians - are once again subjected to mobs burning people, homes, businesses, mandirs, and places of worship. Violent mobs are also attacking Muslims, who today as they did a half century ago, show great courage in the protection of their neighbours, he said in the post. Referring to the period right before Bangladesh was liberated from Pakistan, he said, The evil that once descended upon my family - murdering millions and displacing tens of millions - must not be permitted to rise again. Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen drew an irony with the exit and fleeing of former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina and her exile from the country, saying that the latter had thrown her out of the country to please Islamists. Author Taslima Nasreen(HT File Photo) Hasina in order to please Islamists threw me out of my country in 1999 after I entered Bangladesh to see my mother in her deathbed and never allowed me to enter the country again. The same Islamists have been in the student movement who forced Hasina to leave the country today, Taslima Nasreen wrote in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter). The author further blamed Sheikh Hasina for the crisis in Bangladesh and hoped the country would not become like Pakistan. Hasina had to resign and leave the country. She was responsible for her situation. She made Islamists to grow. She allowed her people to involve in corruption. Now Bangladesh must not become like Pakistan. Army must not rule.Political parties should bring democracy & secularism, she said. Taslima Nasreen, who is a staunch critic of communalism, had to leave Bangladesh in 1994 following death threats by fundamentalist outfits over her book Lajja. She spent the next 10 years in exile in Sweden, Germany, France and the US. In 2004, Nasreen returned to the East and moved to Kolkata in India till 2007. Nasreen then moved to Delhi for three months, where she lived under house arrest after she was physically attacked. However, she had to leave India in 2008 and move to US. After a few years, she returned to India. Bangladesh crisis Hasina, who had ruled the country since 2009, resigned on Monday and fled the country as the anti-government protests intensified, with thousands storming her official residence, where they set fires, carried out furniture and pulled raw fish from the refrigerators. Hours later, the former Bangladesh PM landed at the Hindon Air Base in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad on a C-130 transport aircraft. Media reports suggest that she is likely to go to London, where she may seek political asylum. Shortly after Hasina's exit, Bangladesh Army chief Waker-Uz-Zaman announced that the military would soon form an interim government. Meanwhile, the President dissolved the Parliament, which was formed after elections in January this year Yahya Sinwar, named leader of Hamas on Tuesday, masterminded the bloodiest attack on Jews in a single day since the Holocaust, having made no secret of his desire to strike hard at Israel, the country that imprisoned him for almost half his adult life. Yahya Sinwar was named the leader of Hamas on Tuesday. (AP/File) In December 2022, the militant leader told a rally in Gaza that the Palestinian group Hamas would deploy a "flood" of fighters and rockets against Israel, in a speech to supporters that bore the hallmarks of crowd-pleasing hyperbole. "We will come to you, God willing, in a roaring flood. We will come to you with endless rockets, we will come to you in a limitless flood of soldiers, we will come to you with millions of our people, like the repeating tide," he said in his address. Less than a year later, Israel discovered it was no idle threat, when Hamas fighters broke through Gaza's fence on Oct. 7, 2023, staging an assault that killed 1,200 people, took 152 hostage and broke Israel's reputation as an invincible enemy. Sinwar, 61, who before Tuesday's announcement was the Hamas chief in Gaza, began his career as a ruthless enforcer who punished and killed collaborators with Israel, before rising to a leadership role after his release from prison in 2011 and his return to Gaza. The war set off by the Oct. 7 attack laid waste to Gaza, as Israel sought to eliminate Hamas. Sinwar has been at the top of Israel's assassination list during the conflict. By the time of the speech, Sinwar and the militant Islamists' military leader Mohammed Deif had already hatched secret plans for the Oct. 7 assault, the deadliest day in Israel's 75-year history. Hamas regarded the attack as a major victory against Israeli occupation, but it drew condemnation from the International Criminal Court. Its prosecutor said he had requested arrest warrants for Sinwar, Deif and another Hamas figure over the attack, and for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Nentanyahu and his defence chief over Israel's response which reduced much of Gaza to rubble. Both Israel and Hamas dismissed the accusations and said they objected to the way the announcement of the request on the same day appeared to equate them with each other - though they faced different charges. Heard in hindsight, Sinwar's words foreshadowed what was to come, an attack Hamas dubbed the "flood of Al-Aqsa," a reference to the mosque in Jerusalem that is one of Islam's holiest shrines and stands on a place revered by Jews as Temple Mount. Al-Aqsa has been subject to repeated Israeli raids. Sinwar never made a public appearance after the Oct. 7 attacks, but directed military operations along with Deif and another commander. He also led negotiations for prisoner-hostage swaps, possibly from bunkers beneath Gaza. In the days after the Oct. 7 attacks, Sinwar was seen by some of the captured Israelis in the tunnels, freed hostages have said. Hamas and Israeli officials did not publicly comment on the reported sighting. The question of hostages and prisoner swaps is deeply personal for Sinwar, who spent 23 years behind bars, and has vowed to free all Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. He was one of 1,027 Palestinians released from Israeli prisons in a swap for a single Israeli soldier held in Gaza in 2011. 'DEAD MAN WALKING' Born in the Khan Younis refugee camp, Sinwar was elected as Hamas' leader in Gaza in 2017. After Oct. 7, Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said he and other leaders were "living on borrowed time." Before he was jailed, Sinwar rose to prominence as the head of the Al-Majd security apparatus which tracked and killed Palestinians accused of providing information on Hamas to Israels secret service. Both Hamas leaders and Israeli officials who know Sinwar agree he is devoted to the movement to an extraordinary level. One Hamas figure based in Lebanon described him as "puritanical ... with an amazing ability of endurance." Michael Koubi, a former Shin Bet official who interrogated Sinwar for 180 hours in prison, said he clearly stood out for his ability to intimidate and command. Koubi once asked the militant, then aged 28 or 29, why he was not already married. "He told me Hamas is my wife, Hamas is my child. Hamas for me is everything." Sinwar was arrested in 1988 and sentenced to consecutive life terms accused of planning the abduction and murder of two Israeli soldiers and the murder of four Palestinians. In jail, his hard line against collaborators continued, Israelis who dealt with him have said. At times, "he did not have Jewish blood on his hands, he had Palestinian blood on his hands," Yuval Bitton, previously head of the Israel Prison Service's intelligence division, told Channel 12 TV in October. Bitton, a dentist who treated Sinwar, said Israeli medics removed a tumour in Sinwar's brain in 2004. "We saved his life and this is his thanks," said Bitton, referring to Oct. 7. Bitton's nephew was killed during the attack and his body taken to Gaza by the militants. Koubi described Sinwar as being devoted to the destruction of Israel and to killing Jews. The senior Israeli official described him as a "psychopath", adding that "I don't think the way he grasps reality is similar to more rational and pragmatic terrorists". Bitton added that the Hamas leader was willing to allow huge suffering for a cause and had once in prison led 1,600 prisoners to the brink of a mass hunger strike until death if needed in protest at the treatment of two men in isolation. "He was ready to pay any price for the principle," he said. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are "portraying themselves as British royals" amid the ongoing feud between the Sussexes and the royals, according to insiders. Harry and Meghan are preparing to go on a tour to Colombia, shortly after their Nigeria tour. Prince Harry, Meghan Markle blasted for showing utter contempt they have for the King' by planning to go on Colombia tour (AP Photo/Sunday Alamba)(AP) Im afraid it shows the utter contempt they have for the King However, the Sussexes decision to visit Colombia has not pleased courtiers in the royal family, reports claimed. "Im afraid it shows the utter contempt they have for the King and for very long-established ways of doing things, a former courtier told The Daily Beast. "Royal tours have always, always been about diplomacy, building bridges and reinforcing friendships on behalf of Britain, the ex-courtier continued. "This tour may well have the noblest intentions, but it is clearly not being carried out on behalf of Britain, and yet they still basically portray themselves as British royals." "It shows you exactly why the royals want these two kept as far away as possible, the person added. The Sussexes are expected to visit Colombia later this year. They have been invited by the countrys vice president, Francia Marquez. Colombia, which reportedly has one of the highest murder rates in the world, is not a likely choice for travel. It is especially surprising as recent reports claimed that Harry is disappointed because he thinks King Charles is denying him automatic police protection in the UK even though, according to Harry, his father has the power to intervene in his legal battle over security. The Palace, however, has stressed that decisions around the Duke of Sussexs security are not personal at all. A royal source recently said that it was "well-established" that "security provision is not decided on by the King" but by the government. "For the King himself to attempt to intervene directly in this process in any way would be wholly inappropriate, the source said. A source close to Harry, however, said, If the king wanted, he could do this for his son. BEIRUT, - The leader of Hezbollah on Tuesday pledged a "strong and effective" response to the killing of its military commander by Israel last week and said it would act either alone or with its regional allies. Hezbollah pledges strong response to Israel over killing of military chief, alone or with allies Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said Hezbollah would wait for the right moment to respond but did not hint on its form or timing. All international attempts at persuading Hezbollah not to retaliate were futile, he said. "Whatever the consequences, the resistance will not let these Israeli attacks pass by," he said in a televised address to mark one week since the assassination of Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. "Our response, God willing, will be strong, effective and impactful." Members and supporters of Hezbollah gathered to watch the speech in a southern suburb of Beirut. Just before his speech began, Israeli warplanes swooped low over the Lebanese capital, setting off a series of sonic booms that rattled windows across the city and sent people ducking for cover. There was no comment from the Israeli military. Concern is rising that the Middle East could tip into full-blown war following Hezbollah's vows to avenge Shukr's killing, and Iran's anger over the assassination in Tehran last week of the head of Palestinian militant group Hamas. The strike that killed Shukr on July 30 was the second time Israel had struck the southern suburbs in 10 months of hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli that are taking place in parallel with the war in Gaza between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas. Hezbollah earlier on Tuesday said it launched a swarm of attack drones at two military sites near Acre in northern Israel and attacked an Israeli military vehicle in another location. The Israeli military said a number of hostile drones were identified crossing from Lebanon and one was intercepted. Israeli medical officials said seven people were evacuated to hospital, to the south of the coastal city of Nahariya, one in critical condition. The Israeli military said an initial investigation indicated the injuries were caused by an interceptor that "missed the target and hit the ground, injuring several civilians". Reuters journalists saw one impact site near a bus stop on a main road outside Nahariya. The Israeli military said in a statement sirens sounded around Acre, but that turned out to be a false alarm. It said its air force struck two Hezbollah facilities in south Lebanon. Earlier on Tuesday, four Hezbollah fighters were killed in a strike on a home in the Lebanese town of Mayfadoun, nearly 30 km north of the border, medics and a security source said. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text. After the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the homes and businesses of Hindus are being targeted in Bangladesh amid unrest and violence, claimed a minority group. Smoke billows near burnt Awami League party office as anti-government protestors set fire in Dhaka on August 6, 2024, after former prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country. (Photo by Munir Uz Zaman / AFP)(AFP) The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC) said that hundreds of homes, businesses and temples have been vandalised across the country over the last 24 hours, after Hasina fled Bangladesh. The Hindu community consists of around 8 percent of the total population of Bangladesh, and was largely supported by Hasina's Awami League government. However, the opposition bloc, expected to come into power, includes a hardlined Islamic party. The BHBCUC claimed that around 200-300 Hindu homes and businesses have been vandalised since Monday, when Hasina fled to neighbouring India after resigning. Around 15-20 Hindu temples across Bangladesh have been damaged, and 40 people from the community have been injured, BHBCUC general secretary Rana Dasgupta told Reuters. "The communal atrocities erupted hours before she resigned," he said. "Although there is no killing, there is injury. Houses and businesses of minorities, especially Hindus, as well as temples, have been targeted, looted, damaged." The minority group chief also said that some unidentified men threw a brick at his car when he was out on Monday, in an act of communal violence. "I stand against communal atrocities and will not stop," he said. "Until my death, I shall fight for them. I may not be able to physically protect them, but I can give them courage. I may not be able to resist attacks, but I can protest." Manindra Kumar Nath, a Hindu community leader, described the situation in Bangladesh as horrific. He said, "Even today, we are getting calls from people asking us to save their lives, but we are not receiving any support from anywhere." Students who led the protests against Hasina that killed nearly 300 people since July, have repeatedly urged people not to target minority communities in the overwhelmingly Muslim country. But Hindu community leaders said they were feeling vulnerable because of the lack of a functioning government. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh on Monday and landed at the Hindon Air Base in neighbouring India. Meanwhile, protestors stormed her official residence in Dhaka and ransacked important buildings and museums associated with the Awami League. (With inputs from Reuters) A group of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) supporters on Tuesday stormed the Bangladesh consulate in New York to remove the portrait of Sheikh Hasina's father and former President Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. BNP supporters storm Embassy in New York to remove Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's portrait A video of the incident is doing rounds on social media. In it, several memberswearing red or the Bangladeshi flag on their headscan be seen storming the consulate while the authorities try to control the situation. By the end of the video, a couple of members from former prime minister Khaleda Zia's party can be seen removing all the portraits of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman kept on the shelf of a table. Earlier on Monday, thousands of protesters ransacked Hasinas familys ancestral home-turned-museum where her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman the countrys first president and independence leader was assassinated. They also vandalised his statue in Dhaka. Hasina, who had ruled the country since 2009, resigned on Monday and fled the country as the anti-government protests intensified, with thousands storming her official residence, where they set fires, carried out furniture and pulled raw fish from the refrigerators. Hours later, the former Bangladesh PM landed at the Hindon Air Base in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad on a C-130 transport aircraft. Media reports suggest that she is likely to go to London, where she may seek political asylum. Interim govt to be formed in Bangladesh Shortly after Hasina's exit, Bangladesh Army chief Waker-Uz-Zaman announced that the military would soon form an interim government. He, along with President Shahabuddin and key opposition leaders, met with Shahabuddin's press team and said it had been decided to form an interim government immediately. However, it is not yet clear who would lead the country. Meanwhile, the President dissolved the Parliament, which was formed after elections in January this year and ordered the release of prisoners from the protests, as well as former prime minister and key opposition leader Khaleda Zia - who was jailed by Hasina for graft in 2018. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus described Bangladesh as a free country after Sheikh Hasina was forced to resign as prime minister and flee the country after weeks of violent anti-quota protests that finally demanded her resignation. Nobel peace laureate Muhammad Yunus (C) speaks to the media after filing an appeal for the extension of his bail (File image)(AFP) We were an occupied country as long as she (Sheikh Hasina) was there. She was behaving like an occupation force, a dictator, a general, controlling everything. Today all the people of Bangladesh feel liberated, Muhammad Yunus told ThePrint in an interview. Also read | Bangladesh Army chief unveils plan to restore normalcy in country Muhammad Yunus, who has been charged by the Awami League government in over 190 cases, accused the fleeing Sheikh Hasina of destroying her father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rehman's legacy. The economist is known for his expertise in microfinance and has his work had lifted lakhs of people out of poverty. Once seen as Sheikh Hasina's potential rival to the country's prime ministership, she accused him of sucking blood from the poor. The 2006 Nobel Peace Prize winner was convicted on charges of embezzling $2 million (more than 16 crore rupees) from the workers welfare fund of Grameen Telecom, one of several firms he founded. Muhammad Yunus said violence and vandalism by the protesters is the expression of anger against Sheikh Hasina and an expression of damage she has done. He also expressed hope that the same students and young people will be leading Bangladesh in the right direction in future. Muhammad Yunus explained that seething anger against Sheikh Hasina could not be expressed in a political way due to a series of rigged general elections. So that came out as a simple demand for quota changes. It immediately caught up because the government behaved the same way, attacking them rather than listening to them because they are not in a listening mood at all, Yunus told The Print. The professor is not sure of what role the opposition party will play as they never had a chance to fairly contest the general elections. Main opposition party Bangladesh National Party (BNP) led by ex-prime minister Khaleda Zia, who will be released after Hasina fled, has been under constant attack from the government. Yunus, currently on bail, hoped to see a lot of changes once a fair general election is held in Bangladesh. As an advice, he asked Bangladeshis to be wary of past mistakes and stick to democratic principles. "As long as we stick to that you remain a strong country. We can be a beautiful country, he added. According to The Daily Star, Yunus has accepted a proposal by the coordinators of the protest movement to make him the chief advisor of the soon to be formed interim government. Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation and her escape into India on Monday following the government job quota protests by the students community in the country is the beginning to a new chapter of the country's turbulent political history since its formation in 1971 following a brutal Liberation War. With still over 100 charges in his name, Yunus was sentenced to six months in jail by the court in January but was granted bail in March..(AFP) Mohammed Shahabuddin, Bangladesh President, announced an interim government to be formed soon after the parliament is dissolved and has also ordered the release of former prime minister Khaleda Zia. Amidst this political turmoil, the student protesters have proposed Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus to be the chief adviser for the suggested interim government, in a Facebook video which was posted on Tuesday early morning. We have decided that internationally renowned Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus will be appointed as the chief advisor in the interim government, and we have also spoken with Dr Muhammad Yunus. He has agreed to take on this significant responsibility in response to the call of the students and public to safeguard Bangladesh, said Nahid Islam, a key coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement which spearheaded the protests. Who is Muhammad Yunus? Here are five facts about him. Nahid Islam has emerged as a key figure in Bangladesh after leading student protests against job quotas, which resulted in Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigning and fleeing the country. Nahid Islam is the top leader of the main protest organiser Students Against Discrimination.(AFP) Hasina's 15-year rule ended after weeks of violent unrest, with nearly 300 people reported dead. Follow- Sheikh Hasina Bangladesh News LIVE Who is Nahid Islam? Nahid Islam, a sociology student from Dhaka, spearheaded the students' protest that resulted in the ouster of prime minister Sheikh Hasina and the end of her 15-year rule. Born in Dhaka in 1998, Islam is married and has a younger brother named Nakib, who is also a student. He was the coordinator of the main protest organiser Students Against Discrimination. ALSO READ- India had warned Sheikh Hasina about Gen Wacker-us-Zaman Islam gained national prominence in July after his detention by police during the protests, which turned deadly. Islam and other student leaders are scheduled to meet with army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, who announced the formation of an interim government. He has firmly opposed any government led or supported by the army and has proposed Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus as the chief adviser. ALSO READ- Muhammad Yunus: 5 facts about possible chief advisor of Bangladesh interim govt In public statements, Islam has vowed to uphold the promises made to the protesters and protect Bangladesh's Hindu minority. ALSO READ- Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh because: What son Sajeeb Wazed said Where is Sheikh Hasina? Initially peaceful, the protests by Bangladeshi students against a government job quota system escalated into an uprising that forced PM Sheikh Hasina to resign. She has left the country and is expected to seek asylum in United Kingdom. Hasina has been stationed reportedly in New Delhi awaiting approval from the UK government. ALSO READ- Sheikh Hasina's plane leaves without her. Where is she? Details of her India stay What next for Bangladesh? Opposition leaders and the military are discussing the formation of an interim government to organise new elections, which critics say will restore democracy. Student leaders, however, have proposed Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus to head the interim government. "Any government other than the one we recommended would not be accepted," Nahid Islam said in a Facebook post early on Tuesday. Bangladesh Army chief will meet student leaders shortly. A Pakistani man alleged to have ties to Iran has been charged in a plot to carry out political assassinations on U.S. soil, the Justice Department said Tuesday. The plot was disrupted before it could be carried out. (File) Prosecutors in Brooklyn announced criminal charges against Asif Merchant, accusing him of traveling to New York to try to hire a hitman for the assassinations. The plot was disrupted before it could be carried out. Court documents do not identify any of the potential targets, but the case was unsealed just weeks after U.S. officials disclosed that a threat on Donald Trumps life from Iran prompted additional security in the days before a Pennsylvania rally last month in which Trump was injured by a gunman's bullet. That shooting, carried out by a 20-year-old Pennsylvania man, was unrelated to the Iran threat. U.S. officials have warned for years about Iran's desire to avenge the 2020 killing of Qassem Soleimani, who led the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force. That strike was ordered by Trump. Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement: The Justice Department will spare no resource to disrupt and hold accountable those who would seek to carry out Irans lethal plotting against American citizens and will not tolerate attempts by an authoritarian regime to target American public officials and endanger Americas national security." By Isabelle Yr Carlsson Polish man to stand trial over assault on Denmark's prime minister COPENHAGEN, - A Polish man will stand trial in Denmark on Tuesday over an attack on Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in central Copenhagen in early June, facing charges of assaulting a public official. The incident, which took place two days before European Parliament elections, left Frederiksen with a minor neck injury and led her to cancel several engagements while warning of rising aggression in public. The attack in Denmark happened three weeks after Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico was seriously injured in an assassination attempt and just over a month before the shooting of U.S. presidential contender Donald Trump. The 39-year-old man who is accused of punching Frederiksen said in preliminary questioning that he was not guilty of the offence. He said he could not remember much from the episode due to intoxication, according to police. Investigators have said he was under the influence of alcohol and drugs at the time, and was believed to be unaware that the victim was Denmark's prime minister. Danish media said the suspect had been living in Denmark for several years. Frederiksen, who was accompanied by security guards, sustained a minor whiplash injury in the assault, which occurred in a square in Copenhagen's centre, her office has said. She was able to walk away from the incident unaided, eyewitnesses have told Reuters. In a television interview a few days later, Frederiksen said she had observed a shift in public discourse in recent years, with a harsh tone developing on social media and "a lot of shouting in public, people behaving very, very aggressively." A verdict in the case could come as soon as Wednesday, the Copenhagen court has said. The suspect's lawyer was not available for comment, and the public prosecutor declined to comment. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text. Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina's US-based son Sajeeb Wazed Joy reacted to his mother fleeing the country, saying she did not want to leave but it was for her safety reasons. Joy, who was also Hasina's chief advisor, told NDTV that while his mother is in good spirits, she is very disappointed and disheartened". Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed Joy(Twitter) It was her dream to turn Bangladesh into a developed country and she worked so hard for it over the last 15 years, keeping it safe from militants and as well as from terrorism, and in spite of all of that, this vocal minority, the opposition, the militants have now seized power, he said, as quoted by NDTV. According to Joy, Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh as she did not want bloodshed on the streets of the country, reported India Today. Speaking to the news organisation, Joy claimed that Hasina had decided to resign on August 3, but the protesters did not want a peaceful transition. She did not do anything wrongshe provided the best government in the country. She fought militancy with iron hands, she is doneShe is 77 years old, she will spend time with her grandchildren now, Joy told India Today. Hasina, on Monday, resigned from the PM post and fled the country amid the violent anti-government protests in which at least 300 people, including policemen, died. Ending her 15-year rule, she arrived at Hindon Air Base in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad on a C-130 transport aircraft. Media reports suggested that she is expected to head to London later, where she may seek political asylum. However, Joy clarified that the reports are not true, adding that no decision has been made on her further plans yet, reported India Today. Shortly after Hasina left, Bangladesh Army chief Waker-Uz-Zaman announced that the military would form an interim government and pledged that all deaths and acts of injustice during the recent protests would be investigated by authorities. Joy, however, expressed doubts over the army being able to normalise the situation. Because right now what is happening is that the opposition and the militants, they are not only vandalising, they are also hunting out our leaders, former ministers and even what I hear, minorities. I don't think the violence has ended, he told NDTV. Meanwhile, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the dissolution of the Parliament, which was formed after elections in January this year. He also ordered the release of prisoners from the protests, as well as former prime minister and key opposition leader Khaleda Zia - who was jailed by her arch-rival Hasina for graft in 2018. On Monday, thousands of protesters continued to pour into and out of Hasinas official residence, where they set fires, carried out furniture and pulled raw fish from the refrigerators. They also ransacked Hasinas familys ancestral home-turned-museum where her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman the countrys first president and independence leader was assassinated. Reacting to this, Joy told NDTV that the same powers who killed his grandfather - the minorities that opposed the independence of Bangladesh - are using the current situation to deny and destroy their hard-fought struggle for freedom. By Michelle Nichols UN appeals for Security Council help to combat famine in Sudan UNITED NATIONS, - Senior United Nations officials appealed to the Security Council on Tuesday for help in getting humanitarian aid access in Sudan "across borders, across battle lines, by air, by land" to fight famine that has taken hold in at least one site in North Darfur. The United States last month suggested that the 15-member body consider authorizing aid access through border crossings like Adre from Chad. But Sudan's army-aligned government and council veto-power Russia said on Tuesday that there was no need for Security Council action. "If there is a famine ... we are ready to cooperate with you, and we will open the crossings for any humanitarian assistance. It is not the government - that I am proud to present here - that is blocking humanitarian aid," Sudan's U.N. Ambassador Al-Harith Idriss Al-Harith Mohamed told the council. A global hunger monitor - the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification - last week said more than 15 months of war in Sudan and restrictions on aid deliveries have caused famine in North Darfur's Zamzam camp for internally displaced people. Sudan's government has rejected the finding, while Russia cast doubt on it. The war in Sudan erupted in mid-April last year from a power struggle between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces ahead of a planned transition to civilian rule. Zamzam is in an area that is the last significant holdout from the RSF across Darfur. The RSF has been besieging the area and no aid has reached the sprawling camp for months. "When famine happens, it means we are too late. It means we did not do enough. It means that we, the international community, have failed," senior U.N. aid official Edem Wosornu told the Security Council on Tuesday. CROSS-BORDER ACCESS In February, the government banned aid deliveries through the Adre border crossing, one of the shortest routes to the hunger-stricken region. Government officials have claimed that the crossing is used by the RSF to move weapons. Wosornu said Adre "would be the most effective route and would allow assistance to be delivered at the speed and scale required at this crucial, critical point." She also said that a U.N. Sudan aid appeal for $2.7 billion was only 32% funded. Senior U.N. World Food Programme official Stephen Omollo said that until there was a ceasefire, "we urgently need the council's help to ensure we can carry out our work effectively, and without interference," adding that access was needed via Adre and other cross-border supply routes. U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield has suggested the Security Council consider adopting a resolution to approve cross-border aid deliveries into Sudan, mirroring action it took on Syria. No such action is imminent, diplomats said. Russia's Deputy U.N. Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy told the council on Tuesday that the international community "should not interfere in the domestic affairs of Sudan on the pretext of the severe humanitarian situation and indicate to the legitimate authorities what humanitarian corridors should be open." Between 2014 and 2023 the council authorized aid deliveries from neighboring countries to millions of people largely in opposition-held areas of Syria. Authorization was needed because Syrian authorities did not agree to the operation. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text. A man suspected to be one of the most dangerous criminals in America, El Diablo, or The Devil who was wanted for a bar shooting in Ohio and had been a feature on Americas Most Wanted over twenty years ago, has been arrested while working as a police officer in Mexico. Americas Most Wanted fugitive El Diablo arrested in Mexico(Butler County Sheriff's Office) US Agency said, When Riano was arrested in Mexico, he was found to be working as a local police officer. The 72-year-old Antonio Riano, a Mexican citizen, was detained last Thursday in his hometown of Zapotitlan Palmas, Oaxaca, announced the US Marshals. He was extradited to the US to face first-degree murder charges for killing 25-year-old Benjamin Becerra in Cincinnati in 2004. Riano had fled the US after the incident. Michael T. Gmoser, Butler County Prosecutor, expressed, This type of apprehension would not be possible without the cooperation and due diligence of both the Prosecutor's Office investigators, the United States Marshal Service, and the United States Department of Justice. ALSO READ| US welcomes interim govt announcement in Bangladesh El Dibalo extradited to Ohio after 20 years on the run The Butler County Sheriff's Office had listed Riano on their Most Wanted list, and his case was featured on 'America's Most Wanted.' After two decades, authorities discovered Riano working as a police officer in Mexico. Rianos case started in December 2004 when he had a heated exchange of words with Becerra alongside the Round House Bar in Hamilton, Ohio. Security camera records allegedly showed Riano shooting Becerra in the face during the argument. He then fled the scene in his van. Investigators used video surveillance and witness statements to identify Riano. They found footage of him buying ammunition at a Walmart before the shooting and discovered the suspected murder weapon under his home floorboards. However, El Diablo was charged with first-degree murder in 2005 fled to New Jersey then to Mexico, and the case went cold until this year when deputy Marshals discovered Rianos activity on Facebook and his employment as a police officer in Mexico. ALSO READ| US urged countries to pass messages to Iran against escalation, State Dept says Paul Newton, chief investigator for the Butler County Prosecutor's Office, said, In January of this year, we started actively looking for Mr. Riano again. I'm like, My God, there he is! A little bit grayer, a little bit older, but it was him. Riano was extradited from Mexico City to Cincinnati and is currently in Butler County Jail, awaiting his court appearance on Monday. By Kirsty Needham Australia highlights growing US military presence ahead of AUSMIN talks SYDNEY, - China, climate change, strategic competition in the Pacific, and the AUKUS nuclear submarine project, will be the focus of talks between Australia-US defence and foreign ministers this week, the U.S. top diplomat to Australia said on Tuesday. Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Defence Minister Richard Marles held meetings in Washington on Monday, a day before the annual AUSMIN talks in Annapolis, Marylands, with Marles highlighting the expanding role of a U.S. Marine rotational force in northern Australia and defence industry cooperation. "We're seeing America's force posture in Australia grow really significantly, AUKUS is part of that, but it's not the only part of that," Marles said in talks with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, according to a statement. Under the AUKUS programme, Washington will sell three nuclear-powered submarines to Australia next decade, and with a U.S. election looming, Australia's Wong said in Washington there was bipartisan U.S. political support for the programme. U.S. Ambassador to Australia, Caroline Kennedy, told ABC Television that China and climate change - a priority for the Pacific Islands, where the U.S. and Australia are competing with China for security ties - would be discussed. "Obviously with China being such an important both trading partner and competitor for both of us, that is obviously one of the main topics," she said. "We are also talking about what we can do together to fight climate change, to help the Pacific Islands to build critical infrastructure to connect them," she added. As part of co-operating on environmental and resource issues, Australia will spend A$200 million to upgrade ground station facilities in its remote central desert to process data from NASA's Landsat Next satellite. NASA's Landsat Next is an earth observation programme the U.S. space agency says will provide early warnings on the onset of fires or ice melting. The programme is scheduled to begin in 2030. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the satellite data would also be used to target resource exploration in Australia, as the two nation's develop a supply chain for critical minerals. The U.S. and its allies are seeking to reduce China's market dominance of rare earths and critical minerals used in electric vehicles and defence technology. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text. Bloomberg News has taken disciplinary action against several editorial staff after prematurely publishing news of a historic prisoner swap between Russia and the United States, which potentially endangered the safety of the Americans being released. Bloomberg News is apologizing for a premature story written about the prisoner exchange and says it has disciplined the journalists involved. The story was put out by Bloomberg hours before an embargo was lifted by the White House. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta, File)(AP) In an email to staff, editor-in-chief John Micklethwait stated that disciplinary actions were taken, although details on who, how many, or what the punishments entailed were not disclosed. Jennifer Jacobs, a White House reporter for Bloomberg News, was reportedly fired. ALSO READ| After 20 years, Americas most wanted fugitive El Diablo arrested while working as a cop Micklethwait wrote, Last Thursday, we prematurely published a story on the release of Evan Gershkovich and the other prisoners, which could have endangered the negotiated swap that set them free... it was a clear violation of the editorial standards which have made this newsroom so trusted around the world. US traded 16 citizens for 8 Russians in historic prisoner swap The news outlet published its scoop about the release of Wall Street Journal reporter Gershkovich and other American citizens at 7:41 am ET, while a plane from Moscow carrying them was still en route to Ankara for the exchange. Following the publication, a Bloomberg editor celebrated the scoop on X, It is one of the greatest honors of my career to have helped break this news. I love my job and my colleagues which sparked outrage from other outlets, including the Wall Street Journal, who had held the news under embargo until the exchange was completed. The editors tweet was later deleted. Micklethwait mentioned that he had apologized to the American hostages involved in the swap, including Gershkovich, ex-marine Paul Whelan, and journalist Alsu Kurmasheva. The US traded 16 American, German, and Russian citizens for eight Russians, including spies and a convicted assassin in German custody. ALSO READ| Google and Apple stocks downplay antitrust verdict, here's why investors are optimistic Following a full investigation... we have today taken disciplinary action against a number of those involved and we will be reviewing our processes to ensure that failures like this dont happen again, Micklethwait added. Jacobs, in a statement posted on X, expressed her distress: As a journalist, the idea that I would jeopardize the safety of a fellow reporter is deeply upsetting... I worked hand in hand with my editors to adhere to editorial standards and guidelines. Elon Musk and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer have engaged in heated exchange after the billionaire claimed that the United Kingdom is heading for civil war. Elon Musk's "civil war is inevitable" in UK remark was condemned by PM Keir Starmer.(AP) The CEO of Tesla escalated the row with Downing Street over the violence and unrest engulfing the United Kingdom, amid concerns that internet misinformation is escalating the turmoil. Musk has expressed his views at least twice since chaos erupted following the deaths of three girls by stabbing in Southport, northwest England, on July 29. Taking to his social media platform X, Musk responded to a video showing UK rioters in the setting off fireworks at police. Civil war is inevitable, he wrote. Musk claps back at UK PM for denouncing his comment Musk's comments were immediately denounced by the PM's spokesperson, who said there is no justification for comments like that and anyone who is whipping up violence online will face the full force of the law. Were talking about a minority of thugs that do not speak for Britain, and in response to it, weve seen some of the best of our communities coming out to clean up the mess and disruption. However, Musk did not stop there as he went on to comment on PM Keir's social media post, which criticised violence against Muslims. The UK PM wrote on X that the unrest is not protest, it is pure violence, adding: We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities. Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities? Musk asked. UK stabbing attack: Police charge 17-year-old with murder of three girls Elsie Dot Stancombe,7, Alice Dasilva Aguiar,9, and Bebe King, 6, were killed in a knife attack in the Merseyside town last Monday. Following this, police arrested Axel Rudakubana on the charges of the murder of three young girls and ten counts of attempted murder. At least 400 people have been taken into custody since the chaos erupted on Tuesday. Nigeria, Malaysia, and Indonesia are among the nations that have issued safety advisories to their people in the UK in response to the ongoing riots. The false information on the internet stated that the detained person was a Muslim immigrant who entered the UK on a tiny boat last year. Also Read: Elon Musk's X is closing San Francisco office where Twitter was founded in 2006 Rudakubana, the son of Rwandan parents, was born in Cardiff before relocating to a village located close to Southport. Contentious influencer Andrew Tate furthered the erroneous narrative by claiming that the perpetrator was a illegal migrant. The protestors have targeted mosques and hotels that house asylum seekers. The controversy could jeopardize government attempts to force social media companies to shoulder more of the burden of eliminating offensive content from their platforms that is believed to be fueling some of the violence. On Monday night, Technology Secretary Peter Kyle met Tiktok, Meta, Google, and X executives to make clear their responsibility to continue to work with us to stop the spread of hateful misinformation and incitement. A political action committee backed by Tesla CEO Elon Musk is under investigation in Michigan for possible violations of state laws, a spokesperson for the Michigan secretary of state's office said in a statement on Sunday. Elon Musk arrives before a joint meeting of Congress at the Capitol in Washington, July 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Julia Nikhinson, File)(AP) Musk has previously said he did create a PAC focused on supporting candidates but has not pledged anything to anyone. The Musk-backed America PAC has been acquiring detailed voter information from those living in Michigan and other states after people have submitted their personal data through a section on the PAC's website that says "register to vote," CNBC reported earlier. "While the America PAC is a federal political action committee, the Department is reviewing their activities to determine if there have been any violations of state law. We will refer potential violations to the Michigan Attorney General's office as appropriate," a spokesperson for Jocelyn Benson, Michigan's secretary of state, said in a statement to Reuters. ALSO READ| Elon Musk sues OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and President Greg Brockman, says deceit is of Shakespearean proportions: Report "Every citizen should know exactly how their personal information is being used by PACs, especially if an entity is claiming it will help people register to vote in Michigan or any other state," a spokesperson for the Michigan Department of State said in an email to Reuters. What's at stake for Musk? The Michigan Department of State is currently in the early stages of investigating the situation and cannot confirm if the focus is on any specific aspect at this time, the spokesperson added. The Michigan Attorney General's office and America PAC did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Musk could not be immediately reached for comment. Musk, the world's richest person, has publicly endorsed Donald Trump in the U.S. presidential race. In the last few years, Musk has espoused right-wing views, becoming a fierce critic of diversity initiatives, Biden's immigration policies and has complained that Democrats had given a "very cold shoulder" to Tesla and his rocket company, SpaceX. ALSO READ| Elon Musk backed Trump's political committee under investigation for possible Michigan law violations Barbara McQuade, who once served as a U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan told CNBC, I am not aware of any laws being broken. It is very troubling for any candidate or PAC funded project to deliberately fail to provide information or a link to register to vote when someone asks because they would potentially vote for the opposing candidates. {With inputs from wires} Hillary Clinton has launched a scathing attack against Donald Trump after the former President heaped praises on Russian President Vladimir Putin for the historic prisoner swap deal between Russia and West. Hillary Clinton, the former First Lady and Democratic nominee for president in 2016, expressed her outrage over Donald Trump's praise of Vladimir Putin.(REUTERS FILE PHOTO) Speaking at a rally in Atlanta, Trump recently credited Putin for striking another great deal with the historic prisoner exchange involving the United States, Russia, and other nations, which resulted in the return of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan, among others. By the way, I would like to congratulate Vladimir Putin for having made yet another great deal, Trump asserted, asking the crowd, Did you see the deal we made? According to Trump, some of the greatest killers anywhere in the world were released under the deal. Some of the most evil killers they got. And we got our people back. We have 59 hostages; I never paid anything. ... Boy, we make some horrible, horrible deals. Its nice to say we got em back, but does that set a bad precedent? The Republican presidential nominee earlier boasted that the Kremlin leader wouldnt release Gershkovich for anyone else but him. Clinton blasts Trump for giving credit to Putin Clinton, the former First Lady and Democratic nominee for president in 2016, expressed her outrage over Trump's praise of Putin. In a blistering post on X, she wrote: Even by Trump standards, siding with a murderous dictator who took Americans hostage is traitorous and pathetic." You do not, in fact, have to hand it to Putin, she added. The deal has been welcomed as a victory for President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who has taken Biden's place atop the Democratic ticket for November's election. Also Read: Eric Trump calls Prince Harry and Meghan Markle 'spoiled apples' and suggests Germany and other allies assisted the US government in negotiating the agreement. Russia and Belarus released sixteen prisoners as part of an extraordinary prisoner exchange. In exchange, ten inmates from many Western nations were turned over to Moscow. Two well-known US citizens, Gershkovich and Whelan, returned home as part of a swap involving multiple nations. Vadim Krasikov, a Russian who had been sentenced to life imprisonment in Germany for the murder of a Georgian citizen of Chechen, was also freed. Kamala Harris has decided who her running mate will be. CNN reported that four people close to the process have said her pick is Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota. Kamala Harris picks Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate: CNN (AP Photo/Abbie Parr, File, AP Photo/Darron Cummings, File) The outlet reported that Harris and Walz will appear together in their first joint rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday, August 6. It is believed that in the final days of the selection process, the two became increasingly close. A small team from the vice presidents campaign was seen standing near Walzs mansion to greet him and fly to Philadelphia with him. Harris was said to have been impressed by the Minnesota Govs happy go lucky nature. A source at Harris Wilmington, Delaware campaign headquarters has reportedly said that Walz was a staff favorite. If its him, were stoked. We like him, the source said. Staffers have been very excited about the vice presidential announcement, sources have said. Why did Kamala Harris select Tim Walz? CNNs John King has explained why Walz may have emerged as Harris running mate. King said the reasons for her choice may have included factors such as comfort level, and Harris thinks Walz would be a good governing partner. King said that as Donald Trump labels Harris as dangerously liberal, Walz is someone who can defend that. Were in such uncharted territory with a campaign this late, with Donald Trumps vice presidential pick having a more of a rocky rollout. And so if youve watched, Gov. Walz has impressed everybody, King said. King also said that while Harris focuses on the national picture, Walz will be able to go to a smaller market TV as the vice presidential candidate. What does a vice presidential candidate do? You know the Pittsburgh market, the Erie market, the Grand Rapids market a lot of small market television. You do events, youre doing rallies, but then in between them, youre doing a lot of small market TV, so that the nominee can focus its on the big picture stuff. So here we go, King said. Kamala Harris has picked Minnesota Governor cTim Walz is the governor who just changed the Minnesota flag to resemble the Somalian flag. as her running mate, CNN reported on Tuesday morning. Harris is expected to make an official announcement about Tim Walz in next few hours, with the duo scheduled to attend their first campaign rally in Philadelphia later today.(AFP) Harris is expected to make an official announcement about Walz in next few hours, with the duo scheduled to attend their first campaign rally in Philadelphia later today. Walz, who is known for his progressive initiatives, has support of voters from both urban and rural areas. His nomination attempts to strike a balance on the Democratic ticket by using his Midwestern heritage and legislative accomplishments to draw in a wider base of support. He recently came into limelight after he became the first Democrat to openly characterise Trump and his running mate JD Vance as weird. Democrats seem to have benefited from a narrative edge that was uncommon for them during Joe Biden's reelection campaign thanks to the "weird" remark by Walz. The Trump team, which frequently used Biden's statements to influence political discussions, has spent days attempting to change the narrative by emphasising peculiar aspects of Democrats. David Karpf, a professor of strategic communication at George Washington University, told the Associated Press, I don't know who came up with the message, but I salute them. He mentioned his comment frustrates opponents, leading them to further amplify it through off-balance responses. Also Read: Kamala Harris' husband's ex-wife reacts after he admits to having affair with nanny during their marriage Tim Walz faces Republicans' ire: He presided over destruction and chaos Without any surprise, Trump's supporters and Republicans launched attacks against Walz after several reports confirmed that Harris has selected him as his running mate. Walz also started trending on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. Trump's campaign press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, issued a statement, say "If Walz won't tell voters the truth, we will: just like Kamala Harris, Tim Walz is a dangerously liberal extremist," Karoline Leavitt, Trump's campaign press secretary said in a statement. Graham Allen, one of the X users, shared a throwback video of Harris' VP candidate and captioned it as: Tim Walz is the governor who just changed the Minnesota flag to resemble the Somalian flag. Meanwhile, RNC Research shared a video, in which Walz can be heard stating, One persons socialism is another person's neighborliness. During the Floyd riots, he allowed a mob of thugs to burn a police station to the ground right in the middle of Minneapolis, wrote Matt Walsh. Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota thinks kids should be able to undergo s*x change surgery, cut off their body parts, and get sterilized and chemically castrated by injecting irreversible puberty blockers and hormones which are linked to many dangerous long-term side effects, Libs of TikTok tweeted while sharing Walsh's post. Governor Tim Walz encouraged and supported the 2020 BLM riots which saw Minnesota on fire for months on end. He ignited and presided over the destruction and chaos, they wrote in another post. One X user shared the video of Walz smiling as he signs a law that provides drivers license for illegal aliens in Minnesota. He wants all of America to do the same. This guy is as radical as it gets, the user stated. Twitch streamer Adin Ross gifted former US President Donald Trump with a Rolex and a Tesla Cybertruck wrapped in an image of Trump taken moments after a gunman shot at him during a Pennsylvania rally last month. Twitch streamer Adin Ross's gifts to Donald Trump spark debate on Campaign Finance Laws(X) Ross said they were gifts for the former president, though it remains unclear if Trump accepted them, which could potentially exceed the $3,300 limit on campaign contributions under federal law. Individual campaign contributions are capped at $3,300, according to the Federal Election Commission. ALSO READ| Texas woman armed with pistol arrested for threatening Donald Trump days after ex-prez survived assassination attempt Ross wore a white MAGA t-shirt The 23-year-old streaming icon wore a white Make America Great Again hat and red tie. Throughout the 90-minute stream, Trump rambled on various topics, including immigration, crime, Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and cryptocurrency, while Ross heaped praise on him. During the stream from Trumps Florida compound, a small group of supporters held up never surrender signs and cheered. Ross first gifted Trump a Rolex. Later, he escorted Trump outside to reveal a Cybertruck wrapped in the American flag and a photograph of Trump raising his fist as Secret Service agents surrounded him after the shooting in Pennsylvania. Wow. Thats an Elon, Trump remarked. That is beautiful. I think its incredible. He then suggested that Google manipulated images from the shooting to put smiles on the Secret Service agents faces, saying, You heard about that? Its just terrible. Its a little bit scary. Inside the car, they played California Dreamin by the Mamas and the Papas, followed by the Beach Boys God Only Knows, Elvis Presleys Cant Help Falling in Love, and Michael Jacksons Beat It. Ross gifted Trump a Rolex Trump held up the Rolex box and said, My boy said thats such a big show. I dont know what youre doing but you really are respected. Ross has been recently banned from Twitch for homophobic slurs. He also revealed plans from influencer Andrew Tate to flee to Romania, which UK authorities used to locate Tate. Ross praised Trump as a brave man and called the photo of him raising his fist pretty bad ass. ALSO READ| US Supreme Court declines to halt Trump's sentencing in hush money case In the stream, Ross asked Trump for one-word descriptions of various world leaders and celebrities. Trump described Elon Musk as truly a genius, Joe Rogan as a very interesting guy, Kanye West as complicated, and congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as fake but with a good spark and a lot of sizzle. The former POTUS rambled for about 20 minutes on figures like Xi Jinping powerful, Justin Trudeau they say hes the son of Fidel Castro, Kim Jong Un now this man I really got along with well, and Volodymyr Zelensky. A Virginia man was take into custody for issuing online threats to kill Vice President Kamala Harris. He made the threats on microblogging platform GETTR after she launched her presidential bid following incumbent Joe Biden's exit, confirmed the FBI. Kamala Harris needs to be put on fire alive I will do it personally if no one else does, one of Carillo's post read as per court documents. (AP/X) According to Virginia's federal court documents, Frank Carillo posted a series of messages on GETTR on July 27. These posts were directed at Harris, who has taken Biden's place as the Democratic candidate ahead of the November elections against Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump. Kamala Harris needs to be put on fire alive I will do it personally if no one else does, one of Carillo's post read as per court documents, reported News Week. Harris is going to regret ever trying to become president because if that ever happened I will personally pluck out her eyes with a pair of pliers but first I will shoot and kill everyone that gets in my way that is a f****** promise, he wrote in another post. Moreover, Carillo also posted messages directed at FBI Director Christopher Wray and Biden. Also Read: Kamala Harris' husband's ex-wife reacts after he admits to having affair with nanny during their marriage FBI raids Frank Carillo's residence, discovers rifle and handgun The court filings further state that FBI agents found a RF-15 rifle and 9 mm handgun during a search at Carillo's residence. He asked an officer during the raid if it was about the online stuff he posted, according to authorities. After the search, he was taken into custody and now faces a five-year maximum jail sentence on the felony accusation against him. He was scheduled to appear in court on Monday, but his attorney's details were not accessible. Meanwhile, the US Justice Department has expressed concerns over what they have described as an increase in threats against public servants in the country. Trump faced an attempt on his life at a campaign rally last month. The 20-year-old gunman shot dead one rally goer and injured two other. The purpose of the shooting still remains unknown to the authorities. Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed on Tuesday said that his mother has not sought asylum anywhere. Reports about her (Sheikh Hasina) requesting asylum are actually incorrect. She has not requested asylum anywhere, so the question that UK or US are not responding yet is not true, Wazed told NDTV. Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.(AFP) He said that the family intends to spend time together now and that Sheikh Hasina, who is 76 years old, was planning to retire after this term as she is done with politics in Bangladesh. Wazed also mentioned that Sheikh Hasina is retiring from politics. Speaking about his mothers stay, he said, I am in Washington, my aunt lives in London, and my sister lives in Delhi. We dont know. She might travel between these places. Read: India reaches out to Dhaka, wants military to restore peace and normalcy A day after Sheikh Hasina fled to India after she was forced to resign as the prime minister of Bangladesh, the plane that flew her to Ghaziabad's Hindon air base took off today without her. The C-130 J transport aircraft took off today from the Hindon air base around 9 am with seven military personnel in it towards its base in Bangladesh. 'India in regular touch with Bangladesh' External affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Tuesday said that India is in regular touch with the authorities in Bangladesh, which is in the grip of a political crisis after its prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country. In his address to the Rajya Sabha, the minister said, In the last 24 hours, we have also been in regular touch with the authorities in Dhaka. This is the situation as of now. I seek the understanding and support of the House in regard to sensitive issues regarding an important neighbour on which there has always been a strong national consensus. Jaishankar also said that the government is monitoring the situation with respect to the minorities in the neighbouring country. According to local media reports, Hindu temples have been attacked and vandalised in the violence following Hasina's exit. New Delhi, Following backlash over the depiction of queer love in "Barzakh", channel Zindagi on Tuesday announced that they are voluntarily withdrawing the series from YouTube Pakistan from August 9. Zindagi to remove 'Barzakh' from YouTube Pakistan in light of 'current public sentiment' The show, which created a lot of buzz by bringing together two of Pakistan's most popular stars Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed, also features prominent actors from the industry including M Fawad Khan, Salman Shahid, and Eman Suleman. "We, at Zindagi and Team Barzakh, extend our heartfelt gratitude to our global audience for their unwavering support for Barzakh - a show that was created to bring people together everywhere. "But in light of the current public sentiment in Pakistan, we have made the decision to voluntarily withdraw Barzakh from YouTube Pakistan, effective August 9, 2024. This decision underscores our dedication to honouring our audiences without causing alienation. We sincerely appreciate your understanding and continued support," the channel said in a statement shared on social media. Directed by Asim Abbasi, "Barzakh" had its worldwide premiere on Zindagi's YouTube and ZEE5 on July 19. Abbasi, whose previous Zindagi show "Churails" also faced hurdles in Pakistan despite its global success, shared the channel's statement, adding the finale of the six-episode series will air tonight as scheduled. "Yes, the finale still airs tonight," the director wrote alongside the hashtag 'Barzakh'. The London-based Pakistani filmmaker also shared the statement on his Instagram Stories with famous queer American author James Baldwin's quote, "Ignorance, allied with power, is the most ferocious enemy justice can have". One of the storylines of the surrealistic drama revolved around M Fawad Khan's character Saifullah's romance with Lorenzo, an Italian cook played Franco Giusti, and that didn't go down well in Pakistan with many criticising the makers for allegedly promoting LGBTQIA "agenda". Mishi Khan, a Pakistani actor, termed the show "trash". "#barzakh What a shame that we are watching trash in the name of drama. This hidden LGBTQ agenda in the name of drama is being normalised with plays like Barzakh. Shame on the cast who knew the filth in the script but opted to do it," she wrote on X. Veteran Pakistani actor Rubina Ashraf, however, told a Pakistani channel that television "reflects what is happening in society; it doesn't create it". People are criticising 'Barzakh' and have raised many objections to it, but we have also done 'Udaari' where we depicted incest, abortions, and illicit relationships because these are issues prevalent in society, she said. "A drama cannot promote homosexuality," she added. But most of the recent voices on social media were critical of the show's stance towards queer love. "This vulgar Pakistani drama '#BARZAKH' is funded by Illuminati, Freemasons, LGBTQ and satanists. 100% sure," said a user on the microblogging site. Some called for the show's boycott. "We won't let you normalise it!! #boycottbarzakh #Barzakh #fawadkhan." This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text. Police in Middlesbrough arrested 35 people during violent riots on Sunday. Large crowds of far-right protesters clashed with police. "The level of violence we have seen today is staggering," Assistant Chief Constable David Felton said. "We know the shocking scenes across Middlesbrough today will have caused alarm amongst communities." Late in the day officials said most of the violent crowds had dispersed but officers remained in the area dealing with some disorder. The riots resulted in significant damage to the Crown Court, the University and a number of properties in the Parliament Road area. Cleveland Police also arrested 55 people linked to violent disorder in Teesside. In addition to the 35 arrests in Middlesbrough Sunday, the number of those arrested in connection with the disorder in Hartlepool last Wednesday now stands at 20. England has been marred by violence since an attacker killed three young girls and injured several others in a mass stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event. False reports that the crimes were committed by an immigrant stoked the initial protests. Cleveland Police said there would be an increased police presence across towns and communities in the coming days due to calls on social media for more protests. The Vatican has finally responded to the controversial drag performance that portrayed Leonardo da Vinci's "Last Supper" painting during the open ceremony for the 2024 Paris Olympics. On Sunday, the Vatican expressed "sadness and regret" at some parts of the July 26 performance, saying it revealed a lack of "respect for others." The Vatican said it "cannot but join the voices raised in recent days to deplore the offense done to many Christians and believers of other religions," the statement added. The featured scene appeared similar to the famous Last Supper painting of Jesus Christ by Leonardo da Vince and his apostles sharing a final meal, but with drag queens at the center of a banquet. The central figure was a woman dressed in a large silver headdress, resembling a halo as often seen in depictions of Jesus Christ. "At a prestigious event where the whole world comes together to share common values, there should be no allusions ridiculing the religious convictions of many people. The freedom of expression, which is clearly not called into question here, is limited by respect for others," the Vatican said. The event's creative director claimed the scene was not intended to reference Da Vinci's painting, but France's love of food and feasting. He also characterized the performance as a celebration of tolerance and freedom. An Olympics spokesperson, however, apologized to those the performance offended and later admitted to the allusion. In what could be the successful purchase of potential White House influence, tech mogul Elon Musk has revealed that he is already discussing with Donald Trump the creation of a deregulation "commission" that would shrink federal policing of businesses if Trump is elected president. And he's eying a role for himself on what he labels "expediency commission," he said last week on the "Lex Fridman Podcast." "I have discussed with Trump the idea of a government efficiency commission. And I would be willing to be part of that commission," Musk said. He complained in the podcast about regulations restricting industry as "being tied down by a million strings like Gulliver." He added: "There has to be a garbage collection of laws and regulations." Musk revealed the discussions when Fridman, a computer scientist podcaster, told him: "I wish you could go into Washington for a week and be the head of the committee for making government smaller." Musk warned that establishing such a commission would be opposed by "The Matrix," apparently his term for the mythical "Deep State" conspiracy, as opposed to Americans who want consumer protections. The Wall Street Journal had previously reported that Trump was considering some "advisory role" in his White House for Musk if he is elected. Musk has endorsed Trump for the presidency, and announced last month that he had donated a "sizeable amount" of money to the America Political Action Committee he supports to back Trump, even though he acknowledges that billionaires put a "thumb on the scale" of American elections when wielding their significant resources. Trump said at a recent rally that Musk was giving him $45 million a month which Musk has since denied so he's got to keep him happy. Michigan officials have launched an investigation into the America PAC backed by Musk following reports that the tech mogul was collecting detailed information about swing-state residents who attempted to register to vote through its website. Such an investigation could be the kind of probe blocked by Musk's planned commission. Musk discusses his scheme with Trump in the podcast below beginning at 1:16:00. A fugitive sex offender wanted in the kidnapping of his ex-girlfriend allegedly abducted her again and is being sought by law enforcement officials who say he should be considered armed and dangerous. Quinntel Bagley, 38, was on the run for nearly two months before he allegedly snatched the unidentified woman from her home in Grove City, a Columbus suburb, for a second time last week. The victim called the cops around 6 a.m. Friday and said Bagley kidnapped her and drove her to the west side of Columbus, where she managed to get away from him unharmed, police said in a statement posted on social media later that day. Bagley also allegedly kidnapped the woman on June 13 and was arrested later that day after she was found at a Grove City gas station, local TV station WCMH reported at the time. But Bagley allegedly escaped from custody after being taken to a hospital where he broke free from an officer's grasp while being escorted outside. Police body camera video showed him running across a parking lot with his hands cuffed behind him. Bagley allegedly broke into a nearby home and stole a car that police later found abandoned, according to WCMH. Bagley served a 10-year prison sentence after plea bargaining to kidnapping and assault in 2012 and was on parole at the time of June 13 kidnapping, WCMH said. His plea deal resulted in the dismissal of three rape charges and he's listed as a Tier II sex offender, WCMH said. The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to his capture. Brooklyn Trademark lawyer Jeremy Greene Eche, known as a cyber squatter for purchasing domains for very little money then selling them off to brands for thousands, purchased a domain name under the URL HarrisWalz.com for $8.99 four years ago in 2020 when VP Kamala Harris was a Senator running for the 2020 Presidential race. Now that VP Harris chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her vice presidential running mate, Eche is willing to sell his HarrisWalz.com site for $15,000, he told the Associated Press. Eche supported Clinton in 2016, and he is supporting Harris in this upcoming election, but it won't stop him from selling the domain to somebody else if the Harris campaign doesn't purchase it. "The Harris campaign has hundreds of millions of dollars, so if they don't buy their own domain, that is kind of on them," he further revealed to The AP. "I've got to sell it to somebody. I know I could just donate it, but that is not really how this works. People with billboards aren't donating their billboards to the campaign. It is just a property basically. The "suicide" case of a beloved Pennsylvania elementary school teacher found dead from 20 fatal stab wounds may be reopened after the state Supreme Court agreed to review her death investigation. In January 2011, Samuel Goldberg, the fiance of 27-year-old Ellen Greenberg told police he discovered his bride-to-be brutally maimed with a knife sticking out of her chest after he had to force his way inside their locked Philadelphia apartment when he returned home from the gym. According to the investigation report reviewed by HNGN, Ellen died from 20 stab wounds to the head, neck and abdomen. Her body was found in the kitchen, where there were no signs of a struggle. A medical examiner ruled Ellen died by suicide a ruling that didn't sit well with her parents, Joshua and Sandee Greenberg and for the past 13 years, drove them to appeal their daughter's manner of death. A lower court ruled against them in September 2023, and lawyers for the Greenbergs appealed. "We believe that if we are allowed to go to trial that a jury or a judge will decide that the evidence is so overwhelming that Ellen did not commit suicide, but instead a homicide that will bring someone or some people to justice," the family's attorney, Joseph Podraza said, according to WHP-TV. "We have proven psychologically all the wounds could not have been inflicted by Ellen." A series of independent investigations, paid for by the Greenberg family, disagreed with the medical examiner's findings and determined Ellen likely died by homicide, citing evidence of strangulation and fresh bruises, in addition to the nearly two dozen stab wounds, according to documents reviewed by HNGN. "We have a mission. We have a purpose," Ellen's dad, Joshua, said Monday, according to Penn Live. "Ellen didn't commit suicide. Ellen was the victim of a brutal homicide attack." "I want to make her proud of us," her mom, Sandee, added. "I want to lay my head on the pillow at night, knowing I did everything." It could take up to a year and a half for attorneys to argue their case before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. George Simon Bardmesser, 59, a political candidate running for Sunny Isles Beach commissioner, was arrested Sunday for allegedly attacking two teens while wearing his own campaign shirt. Bardmesser was at a political event with several of his constituents at El Tripico Cuban Cuisine when surveillance footage caught him walking behind a teen seated in a booth and putting him in a chokehold. The video then shows the 59-year-old slapping the other teen. The owner and several bystanders at the restaurant intervened and managed to separate them. A police officer on patrol was alerted of the altercation by restaurant staff, and Bardmesser was taken into custody, according to NBC Miami. "People can know who they are, listen to their opinion, and what they have to say; unfortunately, it did not come out the way everybody wanted," said owner Pedro Vera, who broke up the fight. Bardmesser was transported to Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center from the Sunny Isles Beach Police station and was reportedly still in jail as of Monday evening. He currently faces two counts of child abuse with no great bodily harm. Late last week, FBI agents carried out a search warrant on Tennessee Congressman Andy Ogles. This comes as the first-term Republican continues to face investigation over allegedly fraudulent campaign financial reports, according to NewsChannel5. Questions about Ogles' financial filings were first raised when local news outlet WTVF discovered that the congressman did not list any savings or investments on his personal financial disclosures - even as he claimed to loan hundreds of thousands of dollars. Updated financial disclosures contain 11 amendments indicating that he only loaned $20,000 to his campaign, not $320,000. In the aftermath of the original news investigation, the Campaign Legal Center filed a complaint with the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE), drawing comparisons to ousted New York Representative George Santos. "The expulsion of Representative George Santos for filing false financial disclosure statements and other ethics violations demonstrates why investigations of significant discrepancies in a candidate's financial reporting are warranted," the complaint read. "Unexplained inconsistencies in Rep. Ogles' reported finances and allegations of him misrepresenting his background raise fundamental questions for voters about the transparency of their elected representative. The public has a right to know the sources of money that may be used to influence a federal election, as well as potential conflicts of interest that may arise due to a member's financial obligations," the complaint read. "Uhoh, looks like Tennessee Santos is about to go through some things," Tennessee's Democratic Rep. Gloria Johnson teased on X, formerly Twitter. Following a franchise agreement with Mercan Properties Group, DoubleTree by Hilton Lisbon Airport will consist of 199 guest rooms and 20 suites and is set to open its doors to guests in 2025. Located just a five-minute drive from one of Europe's most dynamic airports, this DoubleTree by Hilton property will offer ultimate convenience for business and leisure travellers. Guests can look forward to enjoying the restaurant, bar and breakfast area throughout their stay, as well as ample facilities for meetings, incentives, conferences and events. Guests will also have access to a modern fitness room and a spacious outdoor area to help unwind and recharge. They can also indulge in the iconic, warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie that has become synonymous with the brand's welcoming hospitality and commitment to delivering feel-good moments to guests from arrival and throughout their stay. Hotel website Whitbread PLC, the parent company to Premier Inn, has opened the doors to its newest investment in London at Paddington Station. The hotel is a first for the capital as it brings together two of Whitbread's market leading budget hotel brands into one new building metres from the platforms of the Elizabeth Line and Paddington train station. Featuring 369 Premier Inn and hub by Premier Inn bedrooms, the hotel is one of the largest Premier Inn's in London and completes Whitbread's network plan for the Paddington catchment where it has invested heavily in recent years. Its customers can now choose from more than 1,000 Premier Inn and hub by Premier Inn bedrooms across four hotels in the catchment which collectively employ more than 200 people. The team behind the new Premier Inn redeveloped the site from an outdated office building to deliver the new hotel, stripping the office back to its frame within which the new hotel was created. Set over five storeys (ground + five storeys of bedrooms), the hotel offers latest format Premier Inn bedrooms above the ground floor reception and restaurant spaces. Compact hub by Premier Inn bedrooms are located at level -1 where cutting-edge lighting technology is installed to mimic the effect of natural daylight in the bedrooms. Whitbread has recruited 80 new team members to welcome guests to the Paddington Station hotel using its established relationships with the Job Centre Plus to promote the opportunities to residents living within Westminster and other central London boroughs. Ahead of opening the company partnered with innovative community engagement platform ActionFunder to fundraise and offer volunteering time for local charities within a 1 mile radius of the new hotel. Team members employed at the new hotel voted on a shortlist of eight charities, four of which were selected to share an allocation of Whitbread's local charity fund for the site. The team also provided close to 80 hours of paid volunteering time to improve a community hub in North Paddington ahead of welcoming guests. To see the projects funded and their updates please link to: https://app.actionfunder.org/fund/477. The Premier Inn Paddington Station Premier Inn was officially opened by Mark Shearer, representatives of the development team, Premier Inn's operational management team as well as local elected and non-elected stakeholders. Whitbread now operates nine Premier Inn and hub by Premier Inn hotels within the City of Westminster, offering its customers a choice of close to 2,000 bedrooms in the heart of Central London. Hotel website Marriott International has appointed long-time employee Jason Nuell as Area Vice President for Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific (ANZP), succeeding Sean Hunt, who retired last month. Nuell has been with Marriott International for over 20 years, most recently serving as Vice President of Customer Experience and F&B Design Services for APEC. He has relocated from Marriott's Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC) headquarters in Singapore to Sydney to assume his new role. Nuell will oversee the financial performance of Marriott's 46 operating hotels and an additional 20 pipeline properties in the region. Since joining Marriott in 2003 as Director of Food and Beverage at the Surfer's Paradise Marriott Resort (now JW Marriott Resort and Spa Gold Coast), he has held various senior leadership positions across Southeast Asia, China, India, the United States, and Europe. In 2011, Nuell was honored with Marriott International's Global General Manager of the Year Award while serving as the General Manager of the Renaissance Phuket Resort and Spa. A brand expert with extensive experience in managing complex, organization-wide projects, Nuell's most recent role involved guiding the formation of Marriott's APEC Brand Team, where he led the brand strategy, management, activation, and design for 30 brands across the region. Additionally, Nuell was Marriott's first Brand Advocate in Europe, spearheading local brand strategy and initiatives for both managed and franchised properties. The hospitality workers' union UNITE HERE has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president, a rejoinder to Republican Donald Trump's effort to woo restaurant and hotel workers by promising to make their tips tax-free. Gwen Mills, the unions president, said Trump was merely making a play for votes while Harris has credibility from having supported unions. She discussed the move with The Associated Press before the unions announcement of an endorsement. The endorsement includes a commitment by the union to have its members knock on more than 3.3 million doors for Harris in swing states that include Pennsylvania, Michigan, Nevada, Arizona and North Carolina. Trump, the former president, proposed excluding tips from federal income taxes during a June 9 rally in Nevada. Both of Nevadas Democratic senators, Jacky Rosen and Catherine Cortez Masto, have supported Trump's idea, a sign of its potential popularity. To those hotel workers and people who get tips, you are going to be very happy, because when I get to office we are going to not charge taxes on tips, people making tips, Trump said at the event. The Biden administration has countered that tipped workers would be better off with a higher minimum wage. President Joe Biden stepped down from the ballot roughly two weeks ago and Harris, whose portfolio as vice president includes organized labor, has embraced many of his existing economic proposals. In speeches, she also has pushed for rules to make it easier for workers to unionize. After replacing Biden, Harris has swiftly consolidated what can be a fractious Democratic coalition, including lining up support from labor unions. The AFL-CIO, which counts UNITE HERE as a member, has endorsed Harris after having backed Biden. The United Auto Workers on Wednesday formally backed the vice president. Read the full article at abcnews.go.com As lawyers who specialize in representing hospitality owners, developers, independent operators, and investors, we have a critical message for restaurants: its time to rethink how you disclose your fees. Recent changes in the legal landscape have significant implications for your operations, and compliance is no longer a matter of choiceits a necessity. Immediate Statutory Requirements Lets dive right in. California Civil Code 1770 now mandates that all charges must be clearly and conspicuously disclosed. This isnt a future requirement; its already in effect. If youre not disclosing fees on your webpage or menu, youre putting your business at risk. The penalties for non-compliance can be steep, including lawsuits that could cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars, even if you come out on top. Weve already seen several lawsuits filed under bait-and-switch pricing, which is prohibited in Civil Code 1770(a)(9). The new California Junk Fee laws may have created more confusion than clarity. The litigation is just beginning under the new Civil Code 1770(a)(29). The so-called restaurant exemption of SB 1524 may not be all it is cracked up to be. In fact, it may be a trap for well-meaning business people. If youre unsure what that means, check out the video below for a detailed explanation. Transparency is Key Historically, many restaurants have tacked on service fees without much explanation. Those days are over. Under the new law, you need to clearly disclose what the service fee is for. Specifically, you must communicate where the fee goes and be prepared to prove it. Customers are increasingly vigilant and willing to sue if they suspect foul play. If you cant back up your claims, you could be accused of misleading and deceptive business practices. Step one in staying compliant is to set a clear fee policy. Once you have a policy, it effectively becomes a contract with your customers. Many restaurants claim that service fees go toward employee wages or tip pools. A restaurant should be prepared to show that every penny of the charges are properly accounted for and applied. They cannot be taken into the restaurants general receipts and used at the discretion of management to pay salaries or other expenses if the restaurant has represented otherwise. If your policy and actions are not accurately disclosed, your business could be at risk. Take a lesson from whats happening in San Francisco. Numerous restaurants have been sued for vaguely referencing surcharges and the San Francisco health care mandate. Plaintiffs claim that such surcharges are misleading because the City does not impose a tax on customers. It requires employers to provide certain benefits, and that is just a cost of operation like minimum wage. Stating a vague or misleading purpose for a mandatory fee can be a legal trap with costly litigation. Learn from the Hotel Industry The hotel industry has been through more than ten years with mandatory fee disclosure lawsuits on both national and state levels. The trend is clear: greater transparency and fewer exemptions. Restaurants should take note and ensure that wherever a price is listed, a clear and accurate disclosure accompanies it. Be honest and reflect the true nature of the fee and its usage. Transparency isnt just a buzzwordits the law. Rethink how you disclose your fees to stay compliant and avoid costly legal battles. The hospitality industry is moving toward greater transparency, and its time for restaurants to step up. Make sure your disclosures are clear, accurate, and in full compliance with the law. JMBMs Global Hospitality Group has experience defending consumer junk fee claims, consumer lawsuits and consumer class actions against hotels, restaurants and hospitality businesses. Contact us to see how we can help. Jim Butler +1 310 201 3526 JMBM View source Yong Tai is Selling Courtyard by Marriott Melaka for MYR160 Million Apple 99 Development Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Malaysia-based Yong Tai Berhad (Yong Tai), is disposing Courtyard by Marriott Melaka to Malaysia-based Southern Envoy Sdn Bhd for MYR160 million. Located 20-minute away from Melaka International Airport, the 286-key property features two food and beverage outlets, nine event spaces, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness centre. The proposed disposal will enable the group to repay existing bank borrowings and settle outstanding progress claims with the hotel contractor, thereby improving its gearing level. Dash Living and BlackRock Acquired Tokyo Multi-Family Building Hong Kong-based Dash Living and a fund managed by US-based BlackRock's real estate business have jointly acquired an upscale multi-family property in Tokyo. The 29-key property is located in the Higashi Komagata area and is easily accessible via the Ginza and Asakusa subway lines. The newly developed property spans a gross floor area of over 12,000 square feet and offers studios, as well as one- and two-bedroom units. This acquisition marks the inaugural investment under the newly established partnership and represents Dash Livings 15th location in Japan. Malaysias Swing and Pillows Acquired Five Hotels in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia-based coliving and hotel operator, Swing and Pillows (SP), has acquired five hotels in Kuala Lumpur for an undisclosed sum. The acquired hotels are located on Jalan Bukit Bintang, with three of them understood to be the 69-key Hotel Sungei Wang, the 46-key Corona Inn, and the 105-key Metropol Hotel. All five hotels will be rebranded under SP's Kingston brand of hotels. Established in 2022, SP operates over 120 hotels and three resorts in major city centers across Malaysia. Colife Expands to Asia Market UAE-based Colife Vacation Homes L.L.C. Dubai (Colife) has announced its launch into the Hong Kong market. Colifes entry to Hong Kong marks its first overseas expansion outside Dubai, with aims to provide 900 bed spaces and private rooms across 300 apartments in Hong Kong by 2025. Furthermore, Colife will further expand into other cities such as Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh, with aims to establish a presence in ten major cities around the world by 2028. WASHINGTON - American Hotel & Lodging Association Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey issued the following statement after the release of a revised bill that would impose drastic new measures against hotels in New York City: The city councils discussions regarding the Hotel Safety Act continue to exclude those who will be most affected by the legislation hotel owners, management companies, sub-contractors, and tens of thousands of hotel workers. It is imperative that all stakeholders have a real seat at the table. If this is a matter of public safety and crime, as has been claimed by Councilwoman Julie Menin (D-District 5) and the bills proponents, lets review the facts and statistics to see what picture they paint. Advancing these claims with scant data and no public process will significantly damage the hotel industry, harm New Yorks economy, and negatively impact both the citys reputation and its fiscal health. Simply stated, this proposal is bad for everyone: hotels, NYCs tourism economy, guests, and hotel employees. The revised bill still imposes expensive and burdensome requirements on hotel owners and effectively prohibits hotel management companies from operating in the city. As it stands, these revisions do not resolve the catastrophic consequences of this bill, which could lead to hotel closures and mass layoffs of workers, while ignoring many operational realities and guest preferences. The effects of this abruptly introduced legislation will be far-reaching and potentially devastating. On behalf of the 30,000-plus members AHLA represents, we urge Councilwoman Menin and City Council leadership to withdraw this legislation. Background On July 18, New York City Councilwoman Julie Menin proposed Int. No. 991, a bill that would impose onerous and unnecessary staffing requirements on NYC hotels and mandate other rules that would needlessly disrupt hotel operations, threaten the successful franchise business model, and require some hotel owners to divest of their properties. On August 2, Menin introduced revisions to the bill that do not address the legislations many problems. The revised text of the bill: Creates a new hotel licensing structure that the city cannot afford to properly implement. Mandates that hotel owners must be the direct employer of all housekeeping, room attendance, and maintenance staff. Prohibits all NYC hotels from sub-contracting out key operational functions, directly harming small NYC businesses. Forces some of NYCs largest and most iconic hotels to close or be sold due to conflicts with federal tax law. Eliminates the ability of hotel management companies to operate in NYC. Creates one-size-fits-all minimum staffing and cleaning mandates that ignore individual hotel needs and guest preferences. Will cause thousands of NYC hotel workers to lose their jobs. About the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) is the largest hotel association in America, representing more than 30,000 members from all segments of the industry nationwide including iconic global brands, 80% of all franchised hotels, and the 16 largest hotel companies in the U.S. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AHLA focuses on strategic advocacy, communications support, and workforce development programs to move the industry forward. Learn more at www.ahla.com. Key Takeaways Consumer research finds almost half of Americans have fallen for a scam, with victims on average losing almost $2,700 to fraudsters. Airbnb and the International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators (IAFCI) team up on tips to help people book travel safely online. As travelers book last minute Labor Day trips and make other holiday travel plans this year, Airbnb has partnered with the International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators (IAFCI) to help consumers book safely online and avoid travel scams. This comes as consumer research from DKC Analytics shows almost half of Americans (47 percent) have fallen for a scam, with victims losing on average $2,697 and 1 in 5 (18 percent) losing $5,000 or more1. The findings underscore the importance of using a recognized provider, especially when spending money online. As a platform built on trust, Airbnb has invested in extensive measures to help our community safeguard their information and their bookings. These measures include dedicated teams and systems aimed at proactively deterring scams, on platform messaging between users coupled with reminders across the site to stay on Airbnb to communicate, book and pay, and guest payment protections, like withholding payment for a stay until 24 hrs after check-in. The consumer research, which was commissioned by Airbnb, also uncovers that amid rising costs of living, finding deals has become increasingly important to most consumers (90 percent) and this is prompting booking behavior that could lead them to fall for a scam online. Close to half (44 percent) of Americans say theyre less vigilant about booking vacations if they think theyre saving money, while over a third (37 percent) would take a risk to save money, even if they think a deal is too good to be true. As online scams become more sophisticated with the advent of technology like AI, fraudsters may try to take advantage of those searching for a travel deal by using fake websites, texts and emails or social media to trick people into believing theyre booking with a legitimate company. As part of our trust efforts, Airbnb works to tackle third party attempts to exploit our brand, and we ask users to report suspicious websites or emails to us for investigation. In 12 months, our dedicated team detected and mitigated almost 2,500 third-party phishing domains globally2. As travelers book their vacations, we want to help them know what to look for and red flags to avoid. When it comes to booking on Airbnb, we encourage our guests to only communicate, book and pay on the platform, where we have secure processes and support like Aircover in place to help protect against scams and ensure issues are rare. Tara Bunch, Airbnbs Global Head of Operations Dont let scammers get away with stealing what youve worked so hard towards. When in doubt, talk it out. If what they are asking you to do doesnt make sense or seems too good to be true, talk to a trusted friend or family member before acting on the request. Missy Coyne, International 1st Vice President at IAFCI To help travelers avoid scams as they plan their vacations, Airbnb and the IAFCI have teamed up on tips for booking online and on Airbnb: Dont click on links in unexpected emails or texts: With most consumers (89 percent) concerned technology like AI will make scams harder to spot, travelers should stay alert for suspicious websites, texts and emails, and social media posts. If youre unsure a message or post is from a legitimate company, do not engage with it or click on any links in it. Airbnb provides guidance on how to identify a genuine Airbnb link or email. With most consumers (89 percent) concerned technology like AI will make scams harder to spot, travelers should stay alert for suspicious websites, texts and emails, and social media posts. If youre unsure a message or post is from a legitimate company, do not engage with it or click on any links in it. Airbnb provides guidance on how to identify a genuine Airbnb link or email. Protect your passwords: Create strong unique passwords for your online accountslong passwords (12 characters or more) are harder for scammers to guess. If youre notified that someone tried to access one of your accounts and it wasnt you, change your password right away. Enabling multi-factor authentication also offers an added layer of account protection. Create strong unique passwords for your online accountslong passwords (12 characters or more) are harder for scammers to guess. If youre notified that someone tried to access one of your accounts and it wasnt you, change your password right away. Enabling multi-factor authentication also offers an added layer of account protection. Be wary of cheap deals and pressure tactics: Searching outside of trusted sites can increase the risk of encountering a scam. Take time to review the details and compare with other options, especially if you feel rushed into paying, and keep in mind that if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. This is equally important for younger travelers as, contrary to popular belief that Baby Boomers are most likely to fall for a scam, more Millennials (51 percent) report being scammed than any other generation. Searching outside of trusted sites can increase the risk of encountering a scam. Take time to review the details and compare with other options, especially if you feel rushed into paying, and keep in mind that if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. This is equally important for younger travelers as, contrary to popular belief that Baby Boomers are most likely to fall for a scam, more Millennials (51 percent) report being scammed than any other generation. Check the URL before you pay: Confirm youre on the legitimate travel providers app or website before paying. When it comes to booking on Airbnb, if in doubt, type airbnb.com into your browser to reach the home page and start your search from there. Confirm youre on the legitimate travel providers app or website before paying. When it comes to booking on Airbnb, if in doubt, type airbnb.com into your browser to reach the home page and start your search from there. Use a credit card for online payments : Credit cards can offer better consumer protection and if you fall for a scam, charges may be easier to dispute. If youre asked to pay for a trip by wire transfer, cryptocurrency or gift cards, those are signs that it could be a scam. : Credit cards can offer better consumer protection and if you fall for a scam, charges may be easier to dispute. If youre asked to pay for a trip by wire transfer, cryptocurrency or gift cards, those are signs that it could be a scam. On Airbnb, keep all communication and payment on the platform: A request to go off site to communicate or pay is a red flag and should be reported to our customer support team. Airbnb holds onto payments made on platform until 24 hours after check-in, while Aircover for guests provides coverage for eligible issues, so theres recourse if something isnt right. You lose that coverage if you go off site to book and pay. A request to go off site to communicate or pay is a red flag and should be reported to our customer support team. Airbnb holds onto payments made on platform until 24 hours after check-in, while Aircover for guests provides coverage for eligible issues, so theres recourse if something isnt right. You lose that coverage if you go off site to book and pay. Check the listing reviews: See what previous Airbnb guests have said about a host or listing and make an informed decision before booking by checking the ratings and reviews, and by thoroughly reading the listing description. You can also ask a host questions through Airbnbs on-platform messaging service before booking. Report concerns right away: With over half of Americans (52 percent) unsure who to contact after being scammed, know you should reach out to your bank or financial institution immediately if you think youve fallen for one. On Airbnb, users can report suspicious messages directly within a message thread, while listings can be reported via the report this listing flag on the listing profile. If youve paid for a booking off site, contact our customer support team right away. For added peace of mind for our community, Aircover for guests applies to bookings made on Airbnb and our global customer support is on hand 24/7 to help. 1. Survey of 2000 US adults between 18-65 in 2024. 2. March 2023 to March 2024. About Airbnb Airbnb was born in 2007 when two hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 5 million hosts who have welcomed over 1.5 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way. About Airbnb.org Airbnb.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating temporary stays for people in times of crisis around the world. Airbnb.org operates independently and leverages Airbnb, Inc.'s technology, services, and other resources at no charge to carry out Airbnb.org's charitable purpose. The inspiration for Airbnb.org began in 2012 with a single host named Shell who opened up her home to people impacted by Hurricane Sandy. This sparked a movement and marked the beginning of a program that allows hosts on Airbnb to provide stays for people in times of need. Since then, the program has evolved to focus on emergency response and to help provide stays to evacuees, relief workers, refugees, asylum seekers, and frontline workers fighting the spread of COVID-19. Since then, hosts have offered to open up their homes and helped provide accommodations to 100,000 people in times of need. Airbnb.org is a separate and independent entity from Airbnb, Inc. Airbnb, Inc. does not charge service fees for Airbnb.org supported stays on its platform. Airbnb Press Airbnb Press Office Airbnb Master Hotel Revenue with AI: How Independent Hotels Use Pricing Manager to Boost Profits - Image Credit Unsplash+ In the dynamic world of independent hospitality, where charm meets challenge, a shift is unfolding. From beachfront properties to urban boutiques, independent hoteliers are discovering a game-changing tool that's not just refining their pricing strategyit's transforming the very essence of how they run their businesses. Meet Pricing Manager: Your secret weapon in hotel revenue mastery Developed specifically for independent hotels, Pricing Manager leverages artificial intelligence to deliver insights and automation previously available only to large hotel chains. This cloud-based software ensures even the smallest property can compete effectively, optimizing room rates and boosting revenue with precision. Now, let's hear from a few hoteliers who have firsthand experience with this AI-powered software solution. Time: The Independent Hotelier's most precious resource For independent hotels, streamlining operations is crucial. Kristy Williams of Cairns Harbourside Hotel shares, "As an independent hotel with a lean team and no dedicated revenue lead, systems-based support is crucial for our day-to-day pricing." Pricing Manager addresses this need. "The biggest impact? Being able to make agile, fast rate changes," Kristy reports. The result? "A significant decrease in time spent on daily rate decisions." Imagine the operational efficiency gains and the enhanced guest satisfaction you could achieve with that extra time. From gut feeling to data-driven decisions In the hotel industry, pricing often feels like a high-stakes guessing game, especially for independent hotels without access to the tools used by hotel chains. Purnima from Rambha Palace explains, "My biggest challenge was efficiently determining fair prices based on various factors." Pricing Manager turns this challenge into an opportunity. A. Mubarak from Dara Hotel states, "Now I can approach pricing scientifically." The outcome? "A firm understanding of market trends and the ability to develop targeted pricing strategies to meet company goals," says A. Mubarak. No more relying solely on historical data or gut instinct. Your crystal ball: predicting the unpredictable In hotel revenue management, foresight is invaluable. Dora Sarkozy, who runs an independent hotel in Budapest, was "looking for software to understand both short-term and long-term market trends." With Pricing Manager, Dora found her solution. "After using the software, I can see competitor pricing and upcoming peak periods." The impact? "I've optimized our prices to a higher level," Dora reports. In the competitive world of hospitality, this edge can significantly impact profitability and occupancy rates. Efficiency meets charm: The best of both worlds Many independent hotels worry that embracing technology might compromise their personalized experiences. But with Pricing Manager, you're enhancing your expertise, not replacing it. As Martin's Hotels discovered, their biggest challenge was "finding time to decide on the right price, which is now possible in seconds thanks to Pricing Manager." Real Hoteliers. Real Results. The verdict on Pricing Manager is clear and consistently positive: Kristy Williams says that Pricing Manager "significantly decreases my time spent on daily rate decisions." Purnima Pricing Manager "a powerful tool that can revolutionize pricing strategies and help achieve business goals more efficiently." Dora Sarkozy finds Pricing Manager "easy to understand and use." Hotel Derby puts it bluntly: "You have to use Pricing Manager to improve your pricing management." Adding to these testimonials, Brian Muawad, Revenue Manager at Oceanic Enterprises, shares his experience: "With Pricing Manager, I have control over my pricing strategy. It gives me personalized recommendations and I can send the pricing directly to my PMS. Just like that, this tool makes your life easier." The success stories don't stop there. Jean-Baptiste Marx, the owner of Chateau de Schengen in Luxembourg shares his experience: "When I opened my hotel, Chateau de Schengen, in Luxembourg, I had no idea how the neighboring hotels managed their revenue management (RM). I was looking for powerful software to help me adjust my prices based on local market demand and nearby events. As soon as we started with Pricing Manager, we immediately saw a massive increase in bookings, with prices adjusted daily based on the occupancy rate." Beyond pricing: Unveiling Pricing Manager's hidden gems Pricing Manager isn't just about setting rates. It's a comprehensive solution for the competitive world of independent hospitality. Let's quickly explore some of its powerful features: Competitive intelligence: Ever wish you could be a fly on the wall in your competitors' meetings? Pricing Manager is the next best thing, giving you a front-row seat to their pricing strategies. Stay one step ahead with real-time, actionable insights. Dynamic pricing: Imagine prices that adjust themselves while you sleep. That's the magic of Pricing Manager's dynamic pricinglike having a tireless revenue manager working 24/7, ensuring your rates are always in sync with market demand, competitor moves, and seasonal swings. Comprehensive reporting: Buried in your data is a goldmine of insights. Pricing Manager's reporting tools are your treasure map. From occupancy trends to booking patterns, these reports provide a clear picture of your hotel's performance. Complexity, simplified: Designed for hoteliers, not data scientists, Pricing Manager turns complex analytics into actionable insights, with a clean, intuitive interface. Dedicated support: When you sign up for Pricing Manager, you're never alone. Our support team understands the unique challenges you face as an independent hotelier. So whether you're just getting started or fine-tuning your strategy, we're here to help you unlock the full potential of your property. Are you ready to write your success story? This is the dawn of a new era in independent hospitality. Pricing Manager amplifies your expertise, giving you the power to optimize your unique charm and boost revenue. It's not about cold algorithms replacing your hard-earned intuitionit's about cutting-edge technology amplifying your expertise, giving you the power to price your unique charm just right, night after night. Pricing Manager: Empowering your passion with precision In today's evolving hospitality landscape, independent hotels need technology solutions that enhance their strengths. Pricing Manager does just thatfueling your passion for hospitality with advanced AI technology. Imagine having a dedicated revenue expert on your team who never sleeps, constantly analyzing market trends, adjusting rates, and ensuring your property remains competitive. That's the power of Pricing Manager. Are you ready to join hoteliers like Kristy, Purnima, and Dora in mastering hotel revenue management? Take the first step today. As Pricing Manager users have shown, the results speak for themselves. As Kristy advises, "Trial it. You have nothing to lose and so much to gain." Your future in revenue mastery at your property awaits. Are you ready to seize it? About Lighthouse Lighthouse (formerly OTA Insight) is the leading commercial platform for the travel & hospitality industry. We transform complexity into confidence by providing actionable market insights, business intelligence, and pricing tools that maximize revenue growth. We continually innovate to deliver the best platform for hospitality professionals to price more effectively, measure performance more efficiently, and understand the market in new ways. Trusted by over 65,000 hotels in 185 countries, Lighthouse is the only solution that provides real-time hotel and short-term rental data in a single platform. We strive to deliver the best possible experience with unmatched customer service. We consider our clients as true partners - their success is our success. Travel Industry Reacts to Google Antitrust, Monopoly Ruling It's been almost four years since the United States filed its antitrust lawsuit against Google - and a decision on the case finally arrived: A U.S. district court judge ruled Monday that Google has built a monopoly on online search - something travel companies have long voiced frustration about. Justice Department antitrust official Jonathan Kanter called the ruling "a landmark decision" - one that holds Google accountable. Meanwhile, Google has said it will appeal the decision. This decision recognizes that Google offers the best search engine but concludes that we shouldnt be allowed to make it easily available, said Kent Walker, president for global affairs for Google. Now that the ruling has come, how are travel industry leaders reacting? What kind of impact does the industry expect to see as a result? Will it see big changes? Jared Alster, chief strategy officer and co-founder of Dune7 Its certainly a landmark ruling that sets a precedent for future big tech cases. That said, its unlikely to change anything for marketers in the near future. There will be appeals that may last for years. Oddly enough, if Google is forced to break apart its various search and ad tech products, it could actually hurt brands. Remember that the same consumer data and data privacy issues that were raised in this case benefit marketers as they look to hone in on their audience targeting. Marketers should continue to adopt a diversified acquisition channel strategy including organic and paid search. Craig Everett, co-founder and CEO of Holibob While this should reduce some marketing costs, it doesnt solve the underlying issue of the industrys over-reliance on paid Google ads to acquire customers. That will require continued innovation around the use of first-party data and creating exceptional consumer experiences - which perhaps folks will invest in with those savings. Rami Nuseir, head of marketing for Stay22 Google has had a monopoly over search for a long time. Over 90% of searches are Google. It's now a verb, which literally means to "look something up online." You don't say to "yahoo it," you say to "Google it." This monopoly has allowed Google to control a huge aspect of business for nearly two decades. It's why when Google released several updates over the course of the last year, each one more devastating than the last for bloggers and small online businesses, the world collectively had to deal with it. When approached with the fact that it was decimating small businesses, Google shrugged. With this ruling, I hope Google will think twice before doing something reckless with people's livelihoods, if only to avoid more bad press. Brennen Bliss, CEO of digital travel marketing agency Propellic Todays antitrust ruling against Google could significantly impact travel companies that depend on Google for bookings - mostly for the better. While the full impact will depend on any injunctions or rulings that come after this decision, we might see lower advertising costs and new opportunities on different platforms - Bing, DuckDuckGo and more. The timing is also perfect for SearchGPT, which was announced just last week and could seize market share. Most mainstream search engines model their organic algorithms off of Googles, so there is minimal risk to existing SEO strategies. Search ads, however, are a different story; travel companies should be ready to quickly onboard with new ad platforms as this plays out if they currently only advertise on Google Search. Rod Cuthbert, founder of Viator The court has confirmed what we knew already Google is a monopoly and acts like one. But now what? The ruling comes as the whole search industry is bracing for [artificial intelligence]-driven change that seems certain to upend everything anyway, court ruling or not. One thing seems certain: Google has the inside running in both paid and organic search and is unlikely to give it up anytime soon. Christian Watts, CEO of Magpie It looks like capitalism is working. I don't think Google has done anything wrong here. It's a very reasonable deal with Apple: "Send us some traffic, and we'll share the revenue." But on the other hand, monopolies are clearly bad, and Google has been too successful. So the government steps in. I suspect armies of attorneys will argue for the next few years, Google will pay a settlement of a few [billion dollars], and Apple users will be delighted with default icons for Bing, Yahoo and Alta Vista. It's a bit ironic that Booking is getting the same treatment in Europe, and one of the best tools to disintermediate the [online travel agencies] Google Travel has also been attacked by the Europeans as anti-competitive. This will all get resolved just after the entire search infrastructure has been turned upside down by AI, and the government lawyers will have to start again. Max Starkov, hospitality and technology consultant What do WebCrawler, Yahoo Search, LookSmart, Alta Vista, Lycos, Excite, Dogpile, Inktomi, Ask Jeeves, Alltheweb, Caffeine and Apple Search have in common? These were all search engines that dominated Internet search at one point or another, most pre-dated Google and had first movers' advantage, and many challenged Google for dominance after it emerged. They all failed. Why? Because of Googles superior technology and talent. What will be the impact of this latest antitrust ruling on travel and hospitality? Short term: No impact. The current ruling and anticipated appeals by Google will take years to pan out. One way or another. Mid Term: Googles exclusive contracts with a number of platforms will be revised (Apple, etc.) to make them non-exclusive. But where would one find a better alternative search engine? Long Term: The search space will be populated by a number of generative AI search engines like OpenAI Search engine, Claude, etc., so consumers will have plenty of options to choose from. Will these new search engines have the deep pockets to finance an undertaking like this one and the tech talent to execute it? Will they have the market acumen and persistence to establish new search products in the marketplace? Remains to be seen. The question is, how many of them will abandon Google and switch to another gen AI-powered search engine? Even today consumers have the choice to abandon Google and switch to Bing or DuckDuckGo (what an unappealing brand name!). How many have done it? Google gets 82 billion visits per month! YouTube - another 31 billion. ChatGPT? A paltry 3 billion! This article originally appeared on PhocusWire. The Conservation Commission voted to request nonchemical alternatives to address invasive species near Notchview Reservoir. North Adams ConCom Balks at Using Herbicides Near Reservoir NORTH ADAMS, Mass. Nearly a dozen residents attended Monday's Conservation Commission meeting to express opposition to a forest management plan that will include logging and the use of herbicides near Notch Reservoir. "The forest that's in there now is a healthy habitat. I walk through there every day, and the trees marked to be cut down are healthy native trees," said Julie Richard. "Yes, some of them are sick and some of them die, but they're like people, they die. That doesn't mean it's not a healthy forest. ... "Who is profiting from this?" The Conservation Commission indicated agreement with most of the arguments, unanimously voting to recommend the city research nonchemical alternatives to removing invasive plants on nearly 21 acres of forest. "Can we go to the city and ask them to look into another option that would exclude any chemical application?" asked Commissioner Jason Canales. "I'm not going to push the project through just to get the project done." Commissioners had expressed concern about the use of chemicals two weeks ago during the management plan presentation , prompting Monday's more detailed presentation by New England Forestry Consultants. The initiative is part of Mass Audubon's Forest Climate Resilience Program in conjunction with the Woodlands Partnership of Northwest Massachusetts, of which the city is a member. The purpose of the plan is long-term management of the forest in terms of sustainability, removal of invasive plants and dying trees, and revenue generation through logging and recreation. The presentation two weeks ago included addressing invasive species through a combination of herbicide application and "mechanical" removal, i.e., pulling out the plants by the root stock. The plan only came to the commission because of the use of herbicides near the waterways. But the commissioners also discussed the creation of trails to bring in logging equipment and the impact on streams, potential erosion and their removal at the end of the process. "We can't say much about anything else," said Commissioner Heather Williams. "We can express concerns about erosion, that some of these trails will become watercourses after they're made, especially since this area is often used by ATVs that are not allowed there." Resident Frank Field, who lives on Notch Road, questioned a herbicide buffer zone for the reservoir at 400 feet and the streams that feed it at 100. "It's OK for the stuff to run into the brooks and then run at the reservoir. I'm a little bit baffled there," he said. "I don't think you can keep the chemicals away. I don't think they should be used. And I might be wrong. OK, I might be wrong on this, but I know that there are horticultural products out there, non chemical that can be used." Field said he uses agricultural vinegar, an acetic acid, on weeds near his home. Jennifer Barbeau of Mountain Girl Farm asked if the use of goats or sheep had been considered for removing the shrubs as they have been successful elsewhere. Liam Smith, a forestry technician with New England Forestry Consultants and licensed herbicide applicator, said he had not been charged with researching alternatives. "I'm here not because I'm trying to poison anybody. I'm here because I've been contracted by the city of North Adams to kill these invasive plants," he said. "I am deferring chemical selection until after my professional recommendation to the ConCom." He offered three options to the commission: glyphosate, triclopyr and imazapyr. Glyphosate is considered the least toxic and has the shortest proximity restriction of four hours (compared to 48 hours for the others) but imazapyr breaks down fastest in water, in less than a week. The densest area of invasives is in about a half-acre to an acre in the middle of the target area. The rest is moderate to light. Smith said he'd walked the area with the Department of Environmental Protection, which will determine the parameters. Residents questioned why the need to remove the invasives at all and take the risk of poison getting in the groundwater. Or removing any trees, since downed trees still provide habitat for wildlife. "I can't believe that it's beneficial to take out large old-growth trees, when immediately the invasives take over that space, it's going to cause more invasive growth," said another resident, adding it took 20 years for a logged section of her property to recover. Joshua Rapp, senior forest ecologist for Mass Audubon, said he could speak to specifics of the project as the consultant, Gary Gouldrup of New England Forestry Consultants, was not able to attend. He said questions would be better directed to Gouldrup during the planned public woods walk on Wednesday, Aug. 7, at 6 p.m. The walk will start at the Bellows Pipe trailhead. Janet Sinclair of Shelburne Falls, a former member of the Woodlands Partnership and conservation commissioner, attended the meeting to make the commission aware that a recent report from the new state Climate Forestry Committee advises against some of the management plan's goals. The 12-person committee recommends passive management, including leaving ash stands, allowing forests to grow and age to maximize carbon storage and leaving deadwood for habitats. "The committee came up with a lot of things, such as that the best thing for climate change and provide diversity is to leave a forest alone, for example," she said. "There's all these ideas that are taking place in this logging plan that are absolutely, you know, in contradiction with this committee." The commissioners felt uncomfortable in making any herbicide decision, noting they had only received the presentation that evening. "This is a lot to swallow off the bat ... I'd like to think about it," said Commissioner Woody Boillat. Canales raised the possibility of seeking further research on alternatives. Smith said he provide alternatives but noted that the quote for his work would change and that there was a deadline for logging to begin this winter. "I'm not even sure if those recommendations have to be truly followed, because this is not we're not actually granting conditions," said Canales. The commissioners then voted to send a letter to the administration recommending it consider nonchemical applications for invasives. In other business, the commission re-elected Andrew Kawczak as chair and Canales as vice chair, and voted to request the administration clarify what constitutes a quorum. The seven-member commission is currently at four members as three declined to be reappointed when their term ended. Hoosac Valley Motorcycle Club Annual Nut and Bolt Poker Run ADAMS, Mass. The Hoosac Valley Motorcycle Club (HVMC) is gearing up for its 70th year anniversary with the annual Nut and Bolt Poker Run on Sunday, August 11, 2024. This ride invites motorcycle enthusiasts from all over to embark on a scenic 120-mile journey through the picturesque roads of western Massachusetts. "We're excited to celebrate our 70th anniversary with our community and fellow riders at the Nut and Bolt Poker Run," said Ed Bishop, Event Organizer at HVMC. "This event is open to all riders and bike types, offering a chance to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region." Participants will have the opportunity to visit destinations such as Glendale Falls, Sugarloaf and Skinner State Parks, where they can enjoy views of the Connecticut River Valley. Riders collect cards at designated stops along the route to compete for a prize at the end of the ride. Registration for the event includes a nominal $10 fee. New this year, HVMC introduces a Google Maps version of the route sheet, allowing riders to follow the route using their cell phone GPS for added convenience. "This is a ride-at-your-own-pace event, designed for riders to enjoy the journey and the sights along the way," added Bishop. "We encourage riders to start early to fully experience the scenic beauty of the route." The Poker Run kicks off at the HVMC Clubhouse located on Wilbur Ln. (off Alger St) in Adams, with riders departing between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. The ride concludes at the American Legion Post 160 in Adams. In the event of inclement weather, the Poker Run will proceed as scheduled, with participants encouraged to switch to four wheels if necessary. 'Rebel Town' to Debut at Duffin Theater LENOX, Mass. Rebel Town Productions and Local Sponsors present the debut of "REBEL TOWN" The Boston Tea Party Musical, a new & original musical, written & composed by Berkshire County Native John Alan Segalla. The production will feature an ensemble cast of 14, including talent from Boston, New York City, Connecticut, and will be performed at the Duffin Theater located at 197 East St, Lenox. According to a press release: Step into the world of Rebel Town, where history comes alive in a new musical adventure celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the Boston Tea Party. Rebel Town plunges you into the heart of Boston's political crisis in 1773. The story begins on the bustling wharfs, 3 days before the Boston Tea Party as Parliament's Tea Act & the unlawful tax on tea ignites a firestorm of resistance led by charismatic Sam Adams, who rallies a town meeting to confront tyranny with three tea ships anchored in Boston Harbor. Amidst the chaos, a 13-year-old apprentice Peter Slater Jr. dreams of joining the Sons of Liberty as carpenter William Grey and his comrades guard the ships, preventing customs officials from unloading the pernicious tea. With days to spare until the ships must be unloaded by law, the men and women of Boston make plans to deal with the tea in a manner that King George would never expect. From lively gatherings and dance numbers at Liberty Tree to secretive schemes at the Bunches of Grapes Tavern, these passionate rebelsincluding John Hancock, Paul Revere, and Mercy Otis Warrengrapple with the weight of their defiance, knowing they risk being branded traitors or worse, being hanged for treason if caught. Daughters of Liberty including Sarah Grey, Abigail Slater and the women of the town play their own unique role in considering the consequences, their own rights, and aspirations for the future. The production is Directed by Segalla, with Assistant Direction by Tommy Towne. Set design by Ron Piazza. Choreography by Kristine Waterman. Produced by Rebel Town Productions LLC and Co-Produced by Jennifer McMahon. Standard admission tickets: $29.50 Seniors (65+): $27.50 Youth (Ages 12-17): $17.73 Children under age 12: Free (when accompanied by an adult) TICKETS are reserved seating and may be purchased at the door and online at: https://our.show/rebeltownthemusical Performances are scheduled on: Friday, August 9 at 7 pm Saturday, August 10 at 7 pm Sunday, August 11 at 2 pm Wednesday, August 14 at 2 pm & 7 pm Friday, August 16 at 7 pm Saturday, August 17 at 2 pm & 7 pm Sunday, August 18 at 11 am Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Get our The Life Cinematic email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A gigantic statue of Marilyn Monroe in downtown Palm Springs is set to be moved following years of controversy and debate. The Forever Marilyn statue stands 26 feet tall and depicts the famous billowing skirt scene from 1955s The Seven Year Itch. Residents have long complained about the statues location directly in front of the Palm Springs Art Museum. A GoFundMe site set up to advocate for the relocation of the statue points out that visitors leaving the museum are presented with a direct view of Monroes underwear-clad backside: Welcome to Palm Springs! Now, the LA Times reports that Palm Springs Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein has agreed to move the statue to a location to be determined in the Downtown Park. In a statement, Bernstein said: The City Council is very pleased to have found a satisfactory solution to this issue, which has divided so many within our community. The statue is already located in the 1.5 acre Downtown Park, so its new location will not be far away. open image in gallery Women pose for a photo beneath the Forever Marilyn statue in 2012 ( AFP via Getty Images ) Created by artist Seward Johnson and first erected in 2011, the statue has had a troubled history. It left Palm Springs in 2014 and was displayed in Chicago, New Jersey, Australia and Connecticut before returning to Palm Springs in 2021. At the time, the statues return to the city caused uproar. Activist groups protested during the unveiling, and critics described it as exploitative. The placement of the sculpture had been voted for unanimously by the city council, but the last four directors of the art museum publicly opposed and condemned its presence in the area, branding it blatantly sexist. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Former Palm Springs Art Museum director Louis Gracho told The Art Newspaper: You come out of the museum and the first thing youre going to see is a 26-foot-tall Marilyn Monroe with her entire backside and underwear exposed. We serve over 100,000 school-age children that come to our museum every single year. What message does that send to our young people, our visitors and community to present a statue that objectifies women, is sexually charged and disrespectful? The City Council ultimately decided to maintain the statues location for three years beginning in 2021. Its new location within the Downtown Park has yet to be announced. Trina Turk, who organized the Committee to Relocate Marilyn GoFundMe, welcomed the decision but noted in a statement that there are still many details to be resolved. Turk added: We will not consider this a done deal until the statue is moved to its new location. Sign up to Roisin OConnors free weekly newsletter Now Hear This for the inside track on all things music Get our Now Hear This email for free Get our Now Hear This email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy British DJ and record producer Fred Again.. has announced the dates for his Places Weve Never Been North American tour beginning this September. The 31-year-old Marea (weve lost dancing) hitmaker shared the news on his Instagram account on Monday (August 5), along with information about how to secure tickets. Okayyyyy North America we comin on tour next month!! he wrote. Whenever we go to the US I hear about (and sometimes see from the plane!!) alll these mad places that we havent gotten to go to and explore. So yeah I cant waittttt to see these parts and play some shows in some magical places, he added, noting that the poster doesnt include every show, just the ones that have been confirmed so far. Where will Fred Again be touring? Fred Again, real name Frederick John Philip Gibson, will kick off the tour with two nights in Denver, Colorado, on September 11 and 12, just days after the release of his new album, ten days, on September 6. He will then travel across across the continent, making stops in several major cities, including Salt Lake City, Utah; Seattle, Washington; Minneapolis, Minnesota; East Troy, Wisconsin, Detroit, Michigan; Toronto, Canada; Buffalo, New York; Atlanta, Georga; and Fort Worth, Texas. When do pre-sale tickets go on sale? For fans interested in nabbing pre-sale tickets, you will need to go to Fred Agains official website to sign up to be sent a code. Pre-sale tickets will go on sale on Thursday, August 8 at 12pm local time. When do general tickets go on sale? General tickets will be available to purchase on Friday, August 9 at 12pm local time. Fred previously teased his new record, ten days, on Instagram, sharing: Its ten songs about ten days. Theres been a lot of biggg mad crazy moments in the last year but basically all of these are about really very small quiet intimate moments, he said. Some of them are like the most intensly joyful things I have felt, and some of them are the other side of things. And some days I dont want to speak about loads cos Im not the only person it was an important day for if that makes sense. Ten days will be released on September 6. Fred, who was shortlisted for the 2023 Mercury Prize last July, is currently traveling around Europe playing gigs at various festivals. He performed a secret set at Glastonbury at the end of June. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Ed Balls and MP Zarah Sultana locked horns in a fiery Good Morning Britain segment on the far-right riots, which left some viewers feeling uncomfortable. The MP for Coventry South who was one of the Labour MPs recently suspended by Keir Starmer for voting to scrap the two-child benefit cap appeared on ITV morning show on Monday (5 August) for a debate with Daily Mails Andrew Pierce about the extent to which Islamophobia is fuelling the abhorrent riots taking place in several cities across the UK. As Sultana attempted to explain the importance of calling the riots Islamophobic and racist, Balls repeatedly interrupted her while also accusing her of failing to answer his questions. In awkward scenes, Kate Garraway stepped in to seemingly defend Balls, telling a frustrated Sultana: We have to ask you questions as well, to which she replied: Absolutely. Here, as Garraway proceeded to ask Sultana a question, Balls interjected: And if you want to, you can answer them its your call. Sultana replied: Im going to wait for Kate to finish her question if thats alright, following which a clearly rattled Balls, staring at Sultana, hit back: If you want to answer the questions, you can but you dont have to. Sultana remained silent as Garraway asked: Why is it important for you to use that specific word Islamophobic? Its been called racist, its been called thuggery. Here, Balls interrupted again, stating: They definitely said racist over the weekend. However, when Balls said that he is unsure whether Starmer and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, whom he is married to, have used the word Islamophobia, Sultana replied: They havent. open image in gallery Ed Balls repeatedly interrupted Zarah Sultana on GMB ( ITV ) Sultana attempted to give her answer to Garraways question, explaining how mosques were targeted over the weekend and here, Balls interrupted once more, stating: But Keir Starmer has condemned that, to which Sultana said: Im just finishing the question if thats OK. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free When Sultana went on to say there is a correlation between language used by politicians in the media, including Balls, to phrases used by rioters, Balls accused Sultana of attacking him. Well, youve moved from attacking Andrew to attacking me, he said, to which the camera cut to Pierce who could be seen chuckling. open image in gallery Zarah Sultana appeared on GMB ( ITV ) Viewers were unimpressed with the interview, and have branded Balls reckless for his repeated interruptions of the MP. Narinder Kaur, who regularly appears on GMB debates, said: This is unacceptable & deeply uncomfortable viewing. An entire white panel questioning a brown woman like a suspect. Ed Balls and Kate have left their homes this morning with no fear. X/Twitter user Thomas H wrote: Ed Balls being incredibly patronising and condescending to Zarah Sultana. That just highlights the problem, adding: Zarah Sultana speaking the truth on GMB and the presenters didnt want to hear it, which is part of the problem. Jonathan Shafi added: Look how hyper-defensive and condescending Ed Balls is. Completely unprofessional, and callous, given the context, while others accused the show of dogpiling Sultana. Many suggested Balls should not have interviewed Sultana considering he is married to Cooper, questioning whether he was able to remain unbiased. Find outraged reactions to the interview below. A sneering Ed Balls (husband of Home Sec) and panel of white people take umbrage at Zarah Sultana asking govt to call riots across country racist/Islamophobic. Look at them laughing at her. @GMB just allowed presenters to belittle a Muslim MP on air. pic.twitter.com/lMJ4kmAWdE pic.twitter.com/ykt3jbMZU6 Teri (@mettlesome_teri) August 5, 2024 Heres an example of how the press downplays and thus legitimises the far right. Zarah Sultana, a Muslim woman of colour, states the glaringly obviously that these riots are racist and islamophobic, and she is interrupted, sneered at, and condescended. pic.twitter.com/6UpozvbfLn Miriam Brett (@MiriamBrett) August 5, 2024 Heres an example of how the press downplays and thus legitimises the far right. Zarah Sultana, a Muslim woman of colour, states the glaringly obviously that these riots are racist and islamophobic, and she is interrupted, sneered at, and condescended. pic.twitter.com/6UpozvbfLn Miriam Brett (@MiriamBrett) August 5, 2024 The Independent has conatced ITV for comment. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Lost fans are preparing to go back. It has been announced that, 20 years after the show premiered, and soon after the show was added to Netflix, a new documentary detailing Losts groundbreaking success is set to premiere in September. The film, titled Getting LOST, will tell the entire story of how Lost became the biggest cult show on the planet, generating intense fan discussion and theories on the internet throughout its six seasons on air. Lost fever will also see the shows very first episode, released on 22 September 2004, receive an anniversary screening in London for the first time ever. Getting LOST is set to address and hopefully put to bed the furore surrounding the shows finale, which has gone down in history as one of the most misunderstood endings of all time. Cast members featured in the documentary include Evangeline Lilly (Kate), Daniel Dae Kim (Jin), Henry Ian Cusick (Desmond), Emilie De Ravin (Claire), Nestor Carbonell (Richard), Josh Holloway (Sawyer), Terry OQuinn (Locke), Maggie Grace (Shannon), Jorge Garcia (Hurley), Michael Emerson (Ben), Malcolm David Kelley (Walt), Elizabeth Mitchell (Juliet) and Sonya Walger (Penny). Showrunners Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse will also appear alongside director Jack Bender and composer Michael Giacchino. The film has been overseen by filmmaker Taylor Morden, who directed The Last Blockbuster. open image in gallery Henry Ian Cusick as Desmond David Hume in LOST ( ABC ) In a statement, he said: We are thrilled to be able to tell the story of one of the greatest television shows of all time! This project has truly been a labour of love. Its hard to believe that it has been 20 years since we first saw that plane crash on the beach and wondered what was shaking the trees and why there was a polar bear on a tropical island. The documentary will be produced by Ralph d Apel. Lost fans have expressed happiness that the show is getting the documentary treatment, with many calling the news exciting. The documentary will premiere in Los Angeles on 22 September but for those based in the UK, a rare cinema screening of Losts Pilot episode will take place on 19 September at the Rio Cinema in Dalston. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Roseanne Barr has distanced herself from Robert F Kennedy Jrs social media video in which the presidential hopeful confessed to dumping a dead bear cub in New York Citys Central Park a decade ago. In the video, the Roseanne star, 71, can be seen holding a mug and listening on as RFK Jr, 70, tells the outlandish anecdote. Writing on X/Twitter, Barr explained: This was not filmed by me or my team. This was off the cuff after the interview. There is no spin here- just a funny story. Its nice to see RFK finally get some press- Albeit during an economic crash by the Biden Harris administration. Great job journos! RFK Jr posted the three-minute video on X seemingly in an attempt to get ahead of the publication of a forthcoming article in The New Yorker magazine. In the clip, RFK Jr claims he had set out from the Big Apple in October 2014 to spend a weekend falconing with friends in upstate New York, when he saw a motorist ahead of him hit the bear with her car. The cub was killed instantly, he says. open image in gallery Roseanne Barr with Robert F Kennedy Jr as the presidential hopeful recounts a story about a dead bear ( Robert F Kennedy Jr/X ) RFK Jr says he pulled over and retrieved the dead animal, loading it into his own vehicle, adding: I was going to skin the bear and it was in very good condition and I was going to put the meat in my refrigerator. And you can do that in New York State. Get a bear tag for a roadkill bear. Under state law, RFK Jr was legally able to pick up the creature, although he would have needed to notify the states Department of Environmental Conservation in order to obtain the necessary tag. Resuming the story, he tells Barr that he drove on and continued with his days sport near Goshen in the Hudson Valley before attending dinner at Peter Luger Steakhouse some 75 miles south. At the end of the dinner, it was late and I realised I couldnt go home, he continues. I had to go to the airport, and the bear was in my car, and I didnt want to leave the bear in my car because that would have been bad. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free RFK Jr says it was at this moment that he landed on the idea of leaving the bear cubs carcass in Central Park next to an old bicycle he had in his vehicle as part of a ploy to make the cubs death look like an accident involving a cyclist. The scheme was cheerily endorsed by his fellow diners, he claims. So we did that and we thought it would be amusing for whoever found it or something, continues RFK Jr, seen sitting at a messy dinner table while Barr listens intently. The following day, RFK Jr learned that the discovery of a dead bear cub was all over the news. The next day... it was on every television station. It was a front page of every paper and I turned on the TV and there was like a mile of yellow tape and 20 cop cars, there were helicopters flying, and I was like, Oh my god. What did I do? he says in the video. When The New Yorkers profile of the long-shot contender for the White House did emerge later on Monday, the anecdote about the bear and its disposal was included along with a picture of RFK Jr, seemingly taken by a friend, posing with his hand in the dead cubs jaws. The photo has since gone viral across social media, alongside a swathe of X users sharing their disgust. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Jubilation turned to anxiety in Bangladesh on Tuesday as the focus of student protesters turned to who should lead the country, now that authoritarian prime minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and fled to neighbouring India. Ms Hasina, 76, who had governed the country for more than two decades across four terms, dramatically stepped down on Monday afternoon after violent protests over a contentious job quota scheme swelled into a popular uprising. The army chief who announced Ms Hasinas resignation, General Waker-uz-Zaman, said the army would be involved in talks to form an interim government with president Mohammed Shahabuddin, who formally dissolved parliament on Tuesday afternoon. But the coordinators of Students Against Discrimination, the main student body that led the protests starting in June, have said they will take to the streets again if a new government is formed without their input and with excessive inputs from the army. In a video message, the student body called for Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist and long-time critic of Ms Hasina, to be named as the chief adviser to any interim administration. Nahid Islam, the organiser, said student protest leaders have already talked with Mr Yunus, who consented to take over considering the present situation of the country. One protester, who did not want to be named for fear of reprisals from the security forces, told The Independent that they are now worried for the future of Bangladesh as they fear that the interim government could be hijacked by political opportunists. We are trying our best to maintain our sovereignty. We are worried that the government that would be formed would be right for us or not and currently the students coordinators are thinking about every possible member of that interim government, she said on the phone from Dhaka. We are worried about the agendas and propaganda of some elements amid the political vacuum here. The students have taken up positions to protect minorities, after there were reports that some people of Hindu minorities have been attacked. Protesters are set to announce more names of people likely to be part of the government, Mr Islam said, warning that ignoring their choices would undermine support in any potential interim leader. We will not accept any other government except the government proposed by the students and people. We will not accept any military government, military-backed government or any B-team government formed with the associates of the fascists, the student leaders warned. open image in gallery Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been backed by student protesters to lead interim government ( AP ) Mr Yunus, 84, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 after he pioneered a system of social outreach based on microlending. He has faced a number of corruption accusations and court cases under Ms Hasinas rule, which his supporters described as a politically motivated vendetta designed to undermine his position as a potential rival. In addition to the Nobel Peace Prize, he was honoured with numerous prestigious awards such as the US Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2010. He also worked as chancellor of Glasgow Caledonian University in Scotland from 2012 to 2018. Mr Yunus has called Ms Hasinas resignation the countrys second liberation day and said Bangladesh was now a free country after her departure. Ms Hasinas exit has plunged the country into political instability after 15 years of one-party rule. The South Asian nation was already grappling with a series of crises such as high unemployment, corruption, communal violence and its extreme vulnerability to the climate crisis. On Monday at least 135 people were killed as thousands of people marched to Dhaka to demand the resignation of the prime minister. Widespread arson, vandalism and rioting continued in the country overnight, taking the total death toll during the protests to well over 400. open image in gallery Anti-government protestors display Bangladesh's national flag as they storm prime minister Sheikh Hasina's palace in Dhaka ( Getty ) Analysts have said the road ahead for Bangladesh will be long, and the unrest is likely to continue until a stable government is in place. [It] will be hard to focus on an interim government and political transition as long as the unrest and mayhem are not reined in. This is where the role of the army becomes significant. Intervening has its own risks, but its unclear who else can step in at this point, Michael Kugelman of the Wilson Center, an American think tank, said. The main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, on Tuesday urged people to exercise restraint in what it said was a transitional moment on our democratic path. It would defeat the spirit of the revolution that toppled the illegitimate and autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina if people decide to take the law into their own hands without due process, Tarique Rahman, the partys acting chair, wrote on the social media platform X/Twitter. open image in gallery A protester throws a burning rubber tire during a protest ( AP ) After Ms Hasinas ouster, protesters stormed into her residence where they set fires, carried out furniture, and took away raw fish and other fresh food from the refrigerators. They also gathered outside the parliament building, where a banner reading justice was hung. And other crowds ransacked Ms Hasinas familys ancestral home-turned-museum where her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman the countrys first president and independence leader was assassinated. They torched major offices of the ruling party and two pro-government TV stations, forcing both to go off air. Ms Hasina had by then arrived in neighbouring India, where the government says she is being allowed to stay for the moment. Indian media reported that she had applied for political asylum in Britain, though the UK government has played down the prospects of this being granted preemptively. General Zaman said he was temporarily taking control of the country as soldiers tried to stem the growing unrest. Mr Shahabuddin announced late Monday after meeting with General Zaman and opposition politicians that parliament would be dissolved and a national government would be formed as soon as possible, leading to fresh elections. He also said that it was unanimously decided to immediately release the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson and Hasinas long-time nemesis, Begum Khaleda Zia. Other political prisoners and detained protesters have also been released, with the president announcing that more would follow in the coming days. open image in gallery Protesters shout slogans as they celebrate ( AP ) The extent of the role of the military going forward is yet to be seen, but there is substantial precedence for the military taking active control of the government in the country. The countrys generals wield significant political influence in Bangladesh, which has faced more than 20 coups or coup attempts since its independence in 1971. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus took the oath of office as head of an interim government in Bangladesh after large-scale protests led to the ouster of prime minister Sheikh Hasina. The prominent economist, 84, was sworn in as chief adviser of the government at the presidential palace in Dhaka. Sixteen other members are part of the new cabinet, including two student leaders who spearheaded the protests that ended the 15-year-long rule of Ms Hasina. Mr Yunus arrived in the country on Thursday and made an emotional appeal to the people of Bangladesh to immediately stop retaliatory attacks against figures from the former Hasina administration. Violence is our enemy. Please dont create more enemies. Be calm and get ready to build the country, Mr Yunus said as he greeted supporters with a smile. He was out of the country on Monday when Ms Hasina dramatically resigned and fled to India, after tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets demanding her resignation following a deadly police crackdown on protesters. At least 440 people, including minors, have been killed in the violence that ensued in July during protests against job reservations for families of 1971 war heroes, according to local reports. open image in gallery People celebrate the resignation of prime minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka ( REUTERS ) Indian foreign minister S Jaishankar said she had been given approval to remain for the moment. The prime minister escaped from Dhaka on a military transport minutes before thousands of people stormed into her official residence and ransacked it. Her resignation triggered jubilation across the country along with incidents of violence against the ruling party members and the minority Hindus. Fresh protests broke out in a Dhaka neighbourhood on Wednesday when hundreds of officials from the central bank forced four of its deputy governors to resign over alleged corruption. The protest leaders said members of the interim government would be finalised soon as Mr Yunus called for new elections to bring stability to the country grappling with unemployment and economic crisis. It is critical that trust in government be restored quickly, he told the Financial Times in a statement. We need calm, we need a road map to new elections and we need to get to work to prepare for new leadership, Mr Yunus said. open image in gallery A man carries a looted item from the prime minister's residence ( REUTERS ) Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, member of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has demanded a fresh election in the next three months to form a government. Bangladesh, the fourth largest country in the world by population, has been on edge for weeks amid protests that began over a controversial quota system for government jobs. The system guaranteed a set proportion of roles to the descendants of fighters in Bangladeshs war of independence seen as a measure to appease Ms Hasinas political base. A fresh spell of protests began over the weekend with people demanding Ms Hasinas resignation, and over 100 people died across the country on Monday in the deadliest day of violence since the crisis began, with hundreds of people injured as both police and protesters used live ammunition. Why were students protesting? At the heart of the student protests that began in late June was the demand to scrap a quota system that reserved up to 30 per cent of government jobs for relatives of veterans who fought in Bangladeshs war of independence in 1971 against Pakistan. The protests began late last month but tensions escalated when students at Dhaka University, the countrys largest, clashed with police and a counter-protest inflamed the situation. The students alleged the protests were peaceful until the student wing of Ms Hasinas ruling Awami League party attacked them. We were protesting peacefully until we were attacked by the goons. It is our right to continue protesting, it is embedded in the history of this country and we shall continue to do so for our right, a Dhaka university student who did not want to be named for fear of persecution told The Independent. open image in gallery Supporters of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) gather to attend a mass rally ( EPA ) Protesters have argued that the quota system was discriminatory and benefitted supporters of Ms Hasina, whose political party led the independence movement. They demanded it be replaced with a merit-based system. Ms Hasinas government had halted the job quotas following mass student protests in 2018, but last month a high court ruling nullified that decision and reinstated the quotas after relatives of the 1971 veterans filed petitions. On 21 July, the Supreme Court ordered that 93 per cent of government jobs would be allocated on merit and five per cent would be for veterans who served in the war. The remaining two per cent would be reserved for members of ethnic minorities and transgender and disabled people. The decision was a partial win for the students after representatives from both sides met late on 19 July to discuss a resolution. Why did Hasina resign? The student protests have shone a spotlight on the cracks in Bangladeshs governance and economy as well as the frustrations of the countrys youth at rising unemployment where some 32 million young people are not in work or education. Anger soon turned from demands over jobs to outrage at the way the protests were treated, with Ms Hasina referring to the protesters as terrorists and ordering police to shoot at them on sight. We have to look out for ourselves and our future generations. We need jobs in this country, we are already suffering from the lack of it, said Alam Rashid, a student from Dhaka. We have invited the government to have a conversation with us multiple times, instead she [Sheikh Hasina] just unleashed her police force on us, he told The Independent. During the weekend, there were reports of attacks across the country, including incidents of vandalism and arson targeting government buildings, offices of the ruling Awami League party, police stations and houses of public representatives. Clashes were reported in as many as 39 of the countrys 64 districts. open image in gallery A vandalised portrait of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, founding father of Bangladesh ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Sunday ended up being one the deadliest days of clashes yet, with at least 95 killed including both protesters and police officers. Student coordinators of Dhaka University called for Monday to be marked by a March to Dhaka, calling it the final answer after the military said students defying a government curfew would face the full force of the law. On Monday, 135 more people were killed as hundreds of thousands of people defied curfew to take over the capital. The military reportedly asked Ms Hasina to resign after top brass refused to order soldiers to open fire on more demonstrators. Where will Hasina go? Ms Hasina is currently at a safe house in Indias capital region after she landed at the Hindon Indian Air Force base outside Delhi. Multiple Indian media cited official sources as saying she is keen on going to the UK, and has submitted a request for political asylum. She is going to stay in Delhi for some more time, her son, Sajeeb Wazad, told Detusche Welle. He added that his mother had not made a decision on where she would seek asylum yet. He said that her mother will return to her country when its new caretaker government decides to hold elections and vowed that his family and the Awami League party would remain engaged in Bangladeshs politics. British officials have reportedly downplayed the chances of Ms Hasina being accepted in the UK, stating that the countrys immigration rules do not permit anyone, including a fleeing prime minister, to seek asylum or temporary refuge. Ms Hasina was accompanied when she left Dhaka by her sister Sheikh Rehana Siddiq, who is the mother of Labour MP Tulip Siddiq. open image in gallery File: Indian prime minister Narendra Modi shakes hand with Sheikh Hasina ( Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) The UK government has hardly been sympathetic towards Ms Hasina and on Monday British foreign secretary David Lammy called for a UN-led investigation into the way her government cracked down on the protests and the tragic loss of lives in Bangladesh. CNN News18 said Ms Hasina is in the process of applying for asylum in other European countries, given the UK appears to be hesitant. Whats next for Bangladesh? After Ms Hasinas resignation, army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced in a televised address to the nation that an interim government would be formed. He said he was assuming control at a critical time for our country and urged people to trust him. I am taking responsibility now and we will go to the president and ask to form an interim government to lead the country in the meantime. It was not clear if the army would play a role, but General Zaman said: We will now go to the president of the country, where we will discuss about the formation of the interim government, form the interim government, and manage the nation. On Tuesday, Bangladeshs parliament was dissolved, the presidents office said in a statement. It was after student leaders spearheading the protest issued a strict deadline and asked revolutionary students to be ready if their demand was not met. They have said they will not accept any government unless it is made up of candidates recommended by them. We wouldnt accept any army-supported or army-led government, they said. Main opposition leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday said Bangladesh must hold a general election within three months to form a new government. Mr Alamgirs BNP was among the opposition parties to have boycotted the January elections citing a crackdown on political dissent that secured a fourth term for Ms Hasina. Bangladeshs borders have effectively been closed while the political uncertainty is being resolved, with major airlines suspending flights to Dhaka and long distance bus services suspended. Train services to neighbouring India, which were first paused in mid-July as the protests turned violent, have now been suspended indefinitely. Amid fears of violence on the India-Bangladesh border, the Bangladeshi security forces said they have received strict instruction from the government to not allow anyone into the country without valid documents. Bangladeshs biggest police union, the Bangladesh Police Service Association (BPSA), defended the conduct of its officers during the protests and declared a national strike on Tuesday in view of the security situation in the country. Until the security of every member of the police is secured, we are declaring a strike, BPSA said in a statement. Who is Muhammad Yunus, the new interim leader? The student protest leaders proposed the name of the 84-year-old microlending champion to become the head of the interim government in Bangladesh, which the president accepted after deliberation with stakeholders. Given the sacrifices of the students, especially those who have lost their lives for our nations liberation, I am not in a position to say no to them, Mr Yunus said. In the coming days, I will talk with all of the relevant parties about how we can work together to rebuild Bangladesh and how they can help, he added. I have no intention to seek any elected or appointed office beyond this role during this interim period. Mr Yunus, one of Ms Hasinas staunchest critics, was charged in more than 200 cases, including forgery, money laundering, and embezzlement during the ruling years of Ms Hasina. Mr Yunus has been credited for helping lift millions out of poverty by providing small loans of less than 80 to rural people through his Grameen Bank, which was founded in 1983. The banks success in lifting people out of poverty led to similar microfinancing efforts in other countries. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Top officials in Bangladesh told Sheikh Hasina during the chaotic final hours on Monday that the end of her leadership was near and there wasnt enough time to record a farewell speech as an angry mob prepared to storm her residence in capital Dhaka. Weeks of student-led anti-quota protests in Bangladesh brought an end to Ms Hasinas administration, forcing the prime minister to resign and flee the country. Tens of thousands of locals have been protesting against a quota system for government jobs in the streets of Bangladesh, especially in Dhaka, where students defied military curfews and called for Ms Hasinas resignation. Nearly 400 people died in Bangladesh since mid-July when peaceful protests led by students spiralled into violence after police and armed forces cracked down on protesters, including implementing shoot-at-sight orders. At least 11,000 people have been arrested in recent weeks. People celebrate the resignation of prime minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka ( REUTERS ) Sequence of events that led to Hasina fleeing Bangladesh: Saturday, 3 August: Student protest organisers called for Ms Hasinas resignation in Dhaka, chanting anti-government slogans in rallies. Thousands of people protested peacefully in Bangladeshs capital to demand justice for more than 200 students and others killed last month, but violence was reported at similar events elsewhere in the country. Sunday, 4 August: Renewed anti-government protests across the country left nearly 100 people dead, including at least 14 police officers. Protesters called for a new interim government and ouster of Ms Hasina after the military announced that a new curfew was in effect from Sunday evening for an indefinite period, including in Dhaka, and other divisional and district headquarters. Officials announced shutting down of courts, railways, and other public spaces until further notice amid rising mutiny. A man holding a Bangladesh flag stands in front of a vehicle that was set on fire at the Ganabhaban, the Prime Minister's residence, after the resignation of PM Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka ( REUTERS ) Monday, 5 August, 9am: Despite nationwide curfew and internet shutdown in several places, protesters in several cities defied official orders and joined a March to Dhaka rally called by the Anti-Discrimination students movement which has been spearheading the demonstrations. Pleas by the Bangladesh Army to comply with curfew orders were rejected. 10am: Clashes between protesters and police forces reported across Bangladesh in the non-cooperation movement launched by groups who defied a military curfew. At least six people were killed during clashes between police and protesters in Jatrabari and Dhaka Medical College areas, reported Bangladeshi daily The Daily Star. Key organisers called for sit-in protests till the Hasina government fell. A protester throws a rubber tire on fire during a protest against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her governmen ( AP ) 1pm: At Ganabhaban (house of the people), the prime ministers residence, Ms Hasina was briefed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) that the situation had spiralled out of control and could not be contained by using force, reported Prothom Alo, a Bengali-language daily in Bangladesh. 1.30pm: Negotiations failed with Ms Hasina, prompting IGP officials to approach her sister Sheikh Rehana to help convince her to leave the worsening situation in Bangladesh as protesters marched to her residence. When Ms Rehanas intervention did not succeed, top officials called Ms Hasinas son Sajeeb Wazed Joy who was abroad but convinced her to resign and leave Bangladesh. Ms Hasina requested that she be allowed to record a departing speech for her country but police officials warned her she did not even have 45 minutes to spare as a mob of tens of thousands was quickly moving towards her residence, according to intelligence reports. A man carries a looted item from the Ganabhaban, the Prime Minister's residence, after the resignation of PM Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka, Bangladesh, 5 Aug 2024 ( REUTERS ) Around 1.45pm: Ms Hasina and her sister Ms Rehana were given 45 minutes to head to the helipad of the old airport in Tejgaon, reported Prothom Alo. She headed to Bangabhan, the presidential office and residence for resignation formalities. Their luggage was loaded in the meantime. 2.30pm: The sisters boarded a Bangladesh Air Force helicopter and headed to India, where they requested safe asylum for a brief period. Indian foreign minister S Jaishankar confirmed Ms Hasina had requested for approval to come to India for the moment at a very short notice. 3pm: Photos showed hundreds of thousands of angry protesters storming Ms Hasinas residence and ransacking her personal belongings. Other buildings associated with her party and family were also damaged. Crowds also vandalised Ms Hasinas familys ancestral home-turned-museum where her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman the countrys first president and independence leader was assassinated. They torched major offices of the ruling party and the countrys two leading, pro-government TV stations, both of which were forced to go off air. Protesters celebrate at the Parliament House premise after news of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Monday, 5 Aug 2024 ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) 3.30pm: Unverified visuals of Ms Hasina boarding a state helicopter emerged on social media, prompting speculations of her next move as Indian news channels report she is headed to Indias eastern state of Agartala. 4pm: Bangladesh army chief Waker-uz-Zaman delivered a national address and confirmed Ms Hasinas resignation. The top official said he was temporarily taking control of the country as soldiers tried to stem the growing unrest. Mohammed Shahabuddin, the countrys figurehead president, announced late Monday after meeting with Waker-uz-Zamam and opposition politicians that parliament would be dissolved and a national government would be formed as soon as possible, leading to fresh elections. 4.15pm: Flight monitoring website FlightRadar24 showed a Bangladesh Air Force C-130J Hercules military plane heading deep inside India and towards New Delhi. The flight, registered with the Bangladesh Air Force, with callsign AJAX1431 became the worlds most tracked flight on Monday, with more than 29,000 users tracking it. The Indian Air Force fighter jets provided cover to the C-130 aircraft carrying Ms Hasina, reported Indian national daily The Times of India. 5.15pm: Hasina landed at the Indian Air Force base of Hindon near New Delhi, confirming her exit from Bangladesh for unconfirmed duration. Indian news reports suggested that Ms Hasina was seeking political asylum in the UK and will be waiting in India till clearance from Britain. 7.30pm: Indias national security advisor Ajit Doval met Ms Hasina at the Hindon Air Base where he discussed the security situation in Dhaka with her. Indian Air Force and other security agencies offered security to her and she was moved to a safe location, reported Indian news agency ANI. A policeman aims his weapon at protesters during a curfew imposed following violence during protests against Sheikh Hasina and her government, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Monday, 5 Aug 2024 ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Tuesday, 6 August, 9am: The C-130J aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force took off from the Hindon air base and headed back to Bangladesh. Media reports confirmed that Ms Hasina and her entourage were not aboard the military plane that went back to Dhaka and that she would continue to be in India till her next step of asylum. The back channel negotiations for asylum in the UK continued as Ms Rehana holds a UK citizenship. Ms Hasina is expected to stay in India for a night or two till her approval for asylum from the UK comes through, an official told the Indian daily The Hindu. 2.30pm: Mr Jaishankar briefed the Indian parliament after speaking with all-party leaders in New Delhi. After a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, prime minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. She requested approval to come for the moment to India at a very short notice. India received a request for flight clearance from the Bangladesh authorities and reached Delhi in the evening, he said. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Bangladeshs former prime minister Sheikh Hasina is reportedly awaiting confirmation from the UK on her request for political asylum after being forced to flee the country on a military helicopter due to widespread violence. Ms Hasina, 76, arrived in neighbouring India on Monday, moments before angry protesters stormed into her residence demanding her resignation after more than two decades in the countrys politics. Anger mounted against the Hasina government after protests against a quota system in government jobs met with harsh repression by government forces, killing more than 400 people. After landing in Indias northeastern city of Agartala, Ms Hasina arrived in New Delhi with her sister and requested asylum from the British government, according to CNN-News18. However, Ms Hasina has been forced to extend her stay in New Delhi as she has received no confirmation from the UK, sources told the broadcaster. Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told parliament on Tuesday that Ms Hasina requested approval to arrive in India at very short notice and her request for was approved for the moment. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from the Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi, he said. He said the Indian government has been in regular touch with the Dhaka authorities for the last 24 hours. I seek the understanding and support of the House in regard to sensitive issues regarding an important neighbour on which there has always been a strong national consensus, he said. Ms Hasina is accompanied by her younger sister Sheikh Rehana, who holds British citizenship. Ms Rehanas daughter Tulip Siddiq is a member of the British parliament for the Labor Party. The embattled leaders request from the UK is in limbo as British foreign secretary David Lammy has called for a UN-led investigation into the deadly protests and tragic loss of lives in Bangladesh. Mr Lammy said in a statement the UK and Bangladesh have deep people-to-people links and shared Commonwealth values. All sides now need to work together to end the violence, restore calm, de-escalate the situation and prevent any further loss of life. The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past few weeks. He described violence in Bangladesh as unprecedented as he set out the UKs ambition for Bangladesh to reach a peaceful and democratic future. The UK and the Indian government have given no official statements on the developments. The protest over the quota system, which reserved a third of civil service jobs for descendants of veterans of the countrys 1971 independence war with Pakistan, was the sternest challenge to her 15 years in power. The protests that began in late June turned deadly after her government issued nationwide shoot-on-sight policy, imposed frequent communication blackouts and curfews across the country as students hit the streets. Most of the quota was scaled back after the Supreme Court ruling last month in favour of students but protests continued as people demanded accountability for the deaths of those killed. On Monday, 135 more people were killed across Bangladesh in incidents of police firing, clashes and arson as hundreds of thousands participated in the march called to Dhaka by protest leaders, reported the Dhaka Tribune. Widespread incidents of looting, vandalism and arson were reported in parts of the country along with reports of escalated attacks on Hindu minorities. The US government commended Bangladeshs Army for its "restraint" and called for an interim government that is democratic. "The United States has long called for respecting democratic rights in Bangladesh, and we urge that the interim government formation be democratic and inclusive. We commend the Army for the restraint they have showed today," a White House spokesperson said on Monday. The EU also urged an "orderly and peaceful transition" towards a new democratically elected government in the country. Ms Hasinas son Sajeeb Wazed Joy and her allies have said she would not return to politics. "Shes in her late 70s. She is so disappointed that after all her hard work, for a minority to rise up against her, I think shes done, her son told BBC. Ms Hasina is known as the iron lady of Bangladesh who has spent a total of 20 years in office after first coming to power in 1996. This is the second time she has been forced into exile in her life. She first went into exile after her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the freedom fighter who founded Bangladesh, was assassinated along with her mother and three brothers in 1975. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Gunmen stormed a helicopter and killed its New Zealand pilot shortly after it landed in Indonesias restive Papua region on Monday. They then released two health workers and two children it was carrying, police said. Glen Malcolm Conning, a pilot for Indonesian aviation company PT Intan Angkasa Air Service, was shot to death by gunmen allegedly with the West Papua Liberation Army, the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement, after landing in Alama, a remote village in Mimika district of Central Papua province, said Faizal Ramadhani, a National Police member who heads the joint security peace force in Papua. He said the gunmen released the Indigenous Papuan passengers and set fire to the plane. All passengers were safe because they were local residents of Alama village, said Ramadhani, adding that the village is in a mountainous district which can be reached only by helicopter. A joint security force was deployed to search for the attackers, who ran into the dense jungle. West Papua Liberation Army spokesperson Sebby Sambom told The Associated Press that he had not received any reports from fighters on the ground about the killing. But, if that happens, it was his own fault for entering our forbidden territory, Sambom said, We have released warnings several times that the area is under our restricted zone, an armed conflict area that is prohibited for any civilian aircraft to land. Sambom called on Indonesian authorities to stop all development in Papua until the government is willing to negotiate with the rebels, and if anyone disobeys, they must bear the risk themselves. New Zealand's foreign ministry said in a statement that it was aware of reports of the death and the country's embassy in Jakarta was seeking information from authorities. A spokesperson could not confirm any details. Conflicts between Indigenous Papuans and Indonesian security forces are common in the impoverished Papua region, a former Dutch colony in the western part of New Guinea that is ethnically and culturally distinct from much of Indonesia. Conflict has spiked in the past year, with dozens of rebels, security forces and civilians killed. Mondays killing was the latest violence against New Zealand nationals in the Papua region. In February 2023, Egianus Kogoya, a regional commander in the Free Papua Movement, abducted Philip Mark Mehrtens, a pilot from Christchurch who was working for Indonesian aviation company Susi Air. Kogoya and his troops stormed a single-engine plane shortly after it landed on a small runway in a mountainous village. Planning to use the pilot to negotiate, Kogoya has said they wont release Mehrtens unless Indonesia frees Papua as a sovereign country. In 2020, seven employees of PT Freeport Indonesia, including a New Zealand miner, Graeme Thomas Wall from Ngaruawahia, were attcked by gunmen in a parking area in Tembagapura mining town. Wall was shot in his chest and died. Papua was incorporated into Indonesia in 1969 after a U.N.-sponsored ballot that was widely seen as a sham. Since then, a low-level insurgency has simmered in the mineral-rich region, which is divided into six provinces. Flying is the only practical way of accessing many areas in the mountainous easternmost provinces of Papua and West Papua. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Meta has apologised for removing some of Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahims posts on its social media platforms that paid tribute to a Hamas leader who was killed last month. Meta Platforms Inc said in a statement on Tuesday: We apologise for an operational error where content from the prime ministers Facebook and Instagram Pages were removed, and the content has since been restored with the correct newsworthy label. Mr Ibrahim had condemned the assassination of top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in his posts. Malaysia does not recognise Israel as a sovereign state and the two countries have no diplomatic ties. In May, Mr Ibrahim met with a Hamas delegation led by Haniyeh during a visit to Qatar, demonstrating support for the group designated a terrorist organisation by the US. On Tuesday, the prime ministers office (PMO) also expressed regret over the suspension of a Facebook Live broadcast from Malaysian national broadcaster RTMs news account covering a rally in support of Palestinians on 4 August. Meta said in a statement that a live-stream of the rally attended by the prime minister was briefly halted due to an intellectual property complaint related to music. Mr Ibrahim addressed a pro-Palestinian rally in Kuala Lumpur that drew thousands. The PMO views Metas actions as discriminatory, unjust and a blatant suppression of free expression. It is also seen as an affront to the legitimate struggle of the Palestinian people in their pursuit of justice and human rights, the PMO said in the statement. The PMO criticised Metas content moderation as discriminatory and suppressive of free expression and demanded a detailed explanation and a public apology, which the company issued on Tuesday. On Monday, Meta officials met the PMO. The government said that the suspension was also seen as an affront to the legitimate struggle of the Palestinian people in their pursuit of justice and human rights. Irans Revolutionary Guard said a short-range projectile was behind the killing of Haniyeh and accused the US of supporting the attack, which it blamed on Israel. Haniyeh was in Iran to attend the inauguration ceremony of the newly elected Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian. The assassination has sparked fears of pushing the region into a wider conflict and forcing Iran and Israel into a direct confrontation if Iran retaliates. Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A couples photograph taken at the same spot 15 years apart shows the shockingly rapid decline of Switzerlands Rhone glacier. Duncan Porter, an X user, shared a photograph he clicked at the Rhone glacier in 2024 along with the one clicked in 2009. Fifteen years minus one day between these photos. Taken at the Rhone glacier in Switzerland today, Mr Porter wrote. Not gonna lie, it made me cry. The photograph taken in 2009 showed Mr Porter and a woman standing ahead of an almost fully white background of Rhone glaciers. While the image taken at the same spot in 2024 shows that the glaciers have significantly retreated, appearing much smaller, with a lot less snow. The image, reposted by almost 10,000 people and seen by over four million, shows the rapid decline of glaciers in a rapidly warming world. Mr Porters post was met with a mix of reactions, including shock. Same for me when I go to Graubunden and see the state of the glaciers around the Bernina pass, wrote another user, Martin Bateman. Rising global temperatures fueling the climate crisis have shrunk glaciers worldwide. A report in 2023 found that Swiss glaciers lost 10 per cent of their volume in just two years due to unusually hot summers and winters with very low snow volume in 2022 and 2023. The analysis by the Swiss Academy of Sciences also found four per cent of Switzerlands total glacier volume vanished in 2023. Earlier this year, Daniel Farinotti, one of Europes premier glacier scientists who studied Rhone, told the New York Times, that the glacier has retreated about half a kilometre since 2007 and that a big glacial pond is forming at its base. The darker the surface, the more sunlight it absorbs and the more melt thats generated, Mr Farinotti told NYT. It is projected that Rhone, one of the countrys biggest glaciers, will shrink by at least 68 per cent by the end of the century. Switzerland has approximately 1,800 glaciers in the Swiss Alps, including the Aletsch Glacier, which is the largest glacier in the Alps. Submit your nominations for The Independents Climate 100 list here and, to stay up to date, register for our newsletter. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Ben Affleck has been spotted with a new hairstyle, but some fans believe the look is more akin to a midlife crisis amid rumors surrounding his marriage with Jennifer Lopez. The Oscar winner, 51, was photographed in Los Angeles, California, on August 3 sporting what appeared to be a shaved faux hawk. His head looked shaved on both sides, while his hair was slicked toward the front. In photos obtained by People, Affleck was dressed in a black Red Hot Chili Peppers T-shirt, completing his rocker chic look with a black leather jacket, aviator sunglasses, black combat boots, and light wash gray jeans. The Gone Girl star was also photographed riding on a blue motorcycle. According to Page Six, Affleck was seen without his wedding ring more than two years after he tied the knot with Lopez. Theres been much speculation surrounding the couples relationship, as multiple outlets haved reported that Affleck and Lopez are heading toward divorce. The swirling rumors led many people on Instagram to believe that the father of threes new faux hawk was seemingly in response to reported issues in their marriage. Say youre going through a midlife crisis without saying you are going through a midlife crisis, one Instagram user commented under Peoples post. Midlife crisis perhaps? another person asked. Can you say midlife crisis? a third user agreed. However, many fans suggested that Afflecks new look may be for an upcoming movie role, like one person who commented: Probably for a movie, everybody needs to relax. Most recently, Lopez hosted a Bridgerton-themed birthday party in The Hamptons, New York, without Affleck. A source confirmed to People that the Argo star stayed on the West Coast, skipping his wifes 55th birthday party as they continue to spend time apart. The couple, who were married in 2022, also spent the Fourth of July and their July 16 wedding anniversary separately. Several sources have claimed the couple are experiencing issues in their marriage, while a source told People in June that Lopez and Affleck remain on good terms despite the strain in their marriage. Theyre still friendly and see each other every few days, they said. Last month, the pair publicly listed their shared Beverly Hills mansion which they purchased in June 2023 for $68m. Affleck recently bought a $20.5m home in Pacific Palisades, California, Page Six reported on August 2. Speculation of a rift between Affleck and Lopez began to circulate after fans noticed that they hadnt been photographed together in more than 40 days. The couple rekindled their romance in early 2021, nearly two decades after calling off their first engagement. Lopez announced they were engaged for a second time in April 2022, and they tied the knot three months later during an intimate Las Vegas ceremony. They hosted a second wedding ceremony at Afflecks home in Georgia one month later. Affleck was previously married to actor Jennifer Garner in 2005. They welcomed three children Violet, 18, Fin, 15, and Samuel, 12 before announcing their separation 10 years later. They finalized their divorce in October 2018. Meanwhile, Lopez shares 16-year-old twins Emme and Max with ex-husband Marc Anthony. Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A father who had pins and needles in his face and fingers while on holiday was given just months to live. Robert Armstrong, 58, a marine engineer from Felixstowe, East Suffolk, began feeling pins and needles on the right side of his body a few months after hurting his back in January 2023. But what the father-of-two thought was a trapped nerve turned out to be a large inoperable tumour in the middle of his brain. In a matter of weeks, Robs symptoms deteriorated and he started losing his vision, sensation and movement, as well as being constantly tired. Rob underwent a type of radiation therapy in June 2023, known as Gamma Knife radiosurgery, a highly precise tool used to target brain tumours without damaging the surrounding cells. open image in gallery Alison with Rob, Loti and her partner Johnny Robs tumour shrunk significantly but his symptoms persisted and in May 2024 he was told by doctors that they were out of options. Despite the devastating news Rob remained optimistic they would find another solution, and after seeking a second opinion has learned about a novel treatment which could help him fight the cancer. Robs daughter, Loti Armstrong, 25, has launched a fundraiser on GoFundMe to help pay for the treatment a type of antibody drug designed to interfere with cancer cells ability to replicate that costs 14,000 a session and is administered into the patients blood stream every three weeks. Loti, a venue manager from Margate, Kent, told PA Real Life: Its really weird thinking about who he has been for the majority of my life and comparing that to the person who my dad is now. open image in gallery Rob and Loti at the beach I had the notion, as everyone does accidentally, that I would have plenty more years to annoy, argue with, go on holiday with and celebrate with my dad. Nothing is certain. Dads always been such a strong, healthy person, doesnt smoke and is always doing stuff, and then for him to have this, and it goes so quickly. It was really unexpected, even within his family because theyve got no history of cancer. Rob was out with his wife Alison and an elderly lady who she cares for in January 2023, when the woman suddenly took a tumble and Rob intervened to prevent her from falling. open image in gallery Rob and his wife Alison before he underwent Gamma Knife radiosurgery He thought he had twisted something in his back and we were joking about how hell never do a good deed again, said Loti. Hes had back pain in the past because his job was quite physical and normally he would just moan about it, put some Deep Heat on and move on. But this time it was different, he needed to take some time off. When Rob and Alison went on a bucket list trip to Cuba in March, he started complaining about feeling pins and needles in his fingers and face. They went to the doctors upon returning to the UK in April, suspecting he was suffering from a trapped nerve, but it was far worse. open image in gallery Rob with his wife Alison who has stopped working to care for him full-time At first doctors thought Rob may have experienced a mini stroke but scans revealed a five centimetre tumour in the middle of his brain. He was diagnosed with an inoperable, terminal brain tumour and given three months to live or six months of treatment, said Loti. It was a really shocking, short turnaround. Loti and her partner Johnny, 23, were in the process of moving from London to Margate and were living with her parents at the time while waiting to sign their lease. We actually saw it in real time which was obviously horrifying, she said. open image in gallery Rob has a large tumour in the middle of his brain Over the coming weeks Robs symptoms developed at an alarming rate as his tumour continued to grow. Loti noticed he was struggling to use his right arm and would be exhausted by a 20-minute walk. When Alison tested his peripheral vision by slowly moving an object from one side to the other, she realised he could see only out of his right eye if the object was placed directly in front of him. It was really strange because he was such a larger than life character, said Loti. As a child, he was a monolith of a man, like the person who knew everything, understood everything and then having to explain stuff to him when he forgot was a really weird culture shock. NHS symptoms of a brain tumour The symptoms of a brain tumour vary depending on the exact part of the brain affected. Common symptoms include: headaches seizures (fits) persistently feeling sick (nausea), being sick (vomiting) and drowsiness mental or behavioural changes, such as memory problems or changes in personality progressive weakness or paralysis on one side of the body vision or speech problems Sometimes you may not have any symptoms to begin with, or they may develop very slowly over time. A biopsy revealed Robs brain cancer was not the primary tumour, so doctors carried out a series of tests to try to find the original source, but were unable to locate it. open image in gallery Rob with Loti, her partner Johnny, and Alison In June 2023, they decided to treat Rob with Gamma Knife radiosurgery, a type of radiation therapy which aims to destroy cancer cells with a very precise and intense dose of radiation. It was horrible to see him undergo it it was brutal, said Loti. Its usually administered once but he had it five times. He would just sleep a lot, like you would say hello, hug and then he would have to lie down. The day Rob received his results in September, Loti, who had since moved to Margate with her partner, took her mother out for a drink and waited for the doctor to call. open image in gallery Rob celebrating with his friends after Lotis fundraiser reached 10,000 Fortunately it was good news the tumour had shrunk significantly. We immediately rushed home and were like Oh my god, said Loti. Dad hearing that was really emotional. I remember him shouting I told you, I knew I wasnt dying. Robs condition was expected to improve with physiotherapy but sadly over the coming months there was little change. Eventually, Alison decided to stop working in sales for a travel company and care for her husband full-time. open image in gallery Rob with his daughter Loti when she was a little girl In May 2024, Loti said they were informed that the doctors had run out of treatment options and there was nothing to be done. Not wanting to give up, Rob and Alison decided to get a second opinion and learned about a new type of drug called trastuzumab deruxtecan which is designed to interfere with processes that help cancer cells grow. It was a really distressing thing for them to hear but he was still very optimistic and very determined, said Loti. He said No, there are lots of clever people in the world, there will be something and thankfully they did get a second opinion. open image in gallery Rob with his wife Alison before he was diagnosed with brain cancer Each round of treatment which is administered intravenously every three weeks costs around 14,000. Lotis brother Stephen, 39, and his wife Jen have offered to pay for the first round of treatment but they will need to find more funds quickly. To help, Loti has launched a fundraiser on GoFundMe which has so far received just short of 18,000. We are super overwhelmed by the support, said Loti. open image in gallery Rob with Lotis grandfather Terry The day we hit the 10,000 target my dads friends organised a little tea party. We appreciate all the donations so far and if youre able to share our fundraiser with friends, family, colleagues and whoever will listen, it would really, really help. Thank you again, everyone has been beyond lovely. To support Rob visit: www.gofundme.com/f/last-chance-cancer-treatment-for-dad. Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A British university student died for 25 minutes in a US hospital after extreme sunburn at a summer camp. Charlie Vincent, 20, flew to New Hampshire in June to work at a summer camp for children where he would be teaching six-year-olds how to canoe, but during his first day on the water he was badly sunburnt, resulting in second-degree burns on his legs. Camp leaders took Charlie, a film student going into his third year at De Montfort University in Leicester, to a general hospital in the state where it was discovered that he also had patches of pneumonia on his lungs. The youngster from Irthlingborough, Northamptonshire, was operated on for the respiratory infection but during surgery he suffered a cardiac arrest, a mini-stroke, and his heart stopped for 25 minutes, according to his family. open image in gallery Doctors discovered Charlie has an enlarged heart while he was undergoing treatment (Collect/PA Real Life) Charlies 24-year-old sister, Emily Vincent, said doctors discovered Charlie had an enlarged heart, also known as cardiomegaly, which causes the heart to work harder than normal a condition they suspected he could have had since birth but it took something like a respiratory infection for it to present itself. He spent around a week in an induced coma, with doctors fearing he would require an urgent organ transplant for his heart and both kidneys, but after a miracle recovery, this may no longer be required although he may still need a heart transplant at a much later date. Charlie and his parents were scheduled to fly back to the UK on Thursday on a medical flight to continue his recovery closer to home at Northampton General Hospital, where his family will also wait to hear if Charlies insurance, worth up to 500,000 dollars (around 390,000), will cover the cost of his US medical bill. open image in gallery Charlie and his sister Emily Vincent (Collect/PA Real Life) At one point, I just couldnt see a way that Charlie was going to make it, it was absolutely heart-breaking, it was hell, Emily, who remained in the UK while her parents kept her updated on her brothers condition from the US, told PA Real Life. Its definitely a miracle that hes still here, I think the hospital he has been in has given him the most amazing care and without that, I dont think he would have made it. Emily added that she was so excited to see her brother the minute he returns to the UK, but mentioned the family may require financial help for the cost of his treatment and additional travel expenses. After spending a few weeks in New Hampshire setting up for the intake at the childrens camp, Charlie started his duties on July 1, until things deteriorated quickly after his severe sunburn. open image in gallery Charlies parents, Joe and Sue Vincent, flew out to America to be with him (Collect/PA Real Life) I think on the first day it was, he got sunburnt really badly and he had second-degree burns all over his legs, said Emily, a cabler for telecom company Openreach. Over the next few days he got worse, he must have had heatstroke and started to feel really poorly. The camp leader and Charlie decided it was time for emergency help, so he was taken to a general hospital in New Hampshire. Thats where they found he had pneumonia in his lungs, said Emily. When they tried to operate, thats when he died and it took them 25 minutes to bring him back to life. open image in gallery Charlie was taken to three different hospitals in the US (Collect/PA Real Life) Emily said doctors were unsure how Charlie had contracted pneumonia but it was suspected his undetected heart condition had been made worse by the respiratory infection, causing a heart attack during surgery which prompted the mini-stroke. Doctors managed to revive Charlie and he was transferred to a medium-risk hospital in New Hampshire where staff discovered his vital organs were failing. After spending three days in two different hospitals, he was transferred to a third facility, Tufts Medical Centre in Boston, Massachusetts, where he was put in an induced coma for around a week. He had loads happen within the space of a few days, Emily said. Once he had gone to the second hospital where they started to do more investigations, they told us he had an enlarged heart and the size of his heart continued to grow. open image in gallery Charlie undergoing dialysis after his kidneys struggled to work (Collect/PA Real Life) They think this issue was something he would have had since he was a child but it took something like an infection to bring it out like that but we were none the wiser. Hes always been a healthy boy, hes never showed any issues with his heart before, so it was just crazy to us for him to deteriorate so quickly. After the cardiac arrest, Charlie was put into an induced coma on life support for around a week, where Emily said he was plugged into loads of different machines to pump his vital organs, including his heart, his lungs, his liver and both kidneys. At this point medical staff said he may need a triple organ transplant for his heart and both kidneys but the family were later told this may not be needed as his organs started to show signs of recovering. open image in gallery Emily said her brother Charlie is her best mate (Collect/PA Real Life) We were told he was in a critical condition, even the doctors were so scared for him, and having no one out there must have been terrifying for him, Emily said. I was desperate to get out there, mum and dad were itching to get out there. My brother and me, were almost like twins even though theres a four-year age gap hes like my best mate. He is my rock and he always has been, so it was very difficult to think of a life without Charlie. Its just been heart-breaking, the entire situation. open image in gallery Charlie with his family members (Collect/PA Real Life) Their parents, Joe and Sue Vincent, aged 47 and 50 respectively, flew out to be with Charlie after the first week he was taken into hospital and they have stayed with him since. Over the last few days, the situation has improved to the point Charlie will be able to return to the UK on a medical flight, with his sister saying it is looking really positive. It has been a miracle in terms of how quickly hes made a turnaround and the care the hospital has given has been incredible, she said. He missed two lots of dialysis because his kidneys seem to be working much better by themselves now so they are hoping this is his kidneys restarting and theyre also hoping that his heart is starting to work a lot better by itself. open image in gallery Charlie will continue his recovery in the UK at Northampton General Hospital (Collect/PA Real Life) He was initially walking around with a Zimmer frame but as of Tuesday, he did a few steps by himself so hes getting stronger each day. Hes got four medications that he will have to take for his heart which should control whatever is happening the doctors have said that maybe at a much later date he will need a heart transplant. Emily said her family do not know if Charlies insurance, worth up to 500,000 dollars (around 390,000), will cover his medical bill because of how advanced his treatment has been. She added that the family have asked how much the bill would be but said the hospital appeared to be waiting for the end of treatment to produce a figure. The family have set up a GoFundMe page to help with the cost of Charlies treatment and travel costs for his parents, which had raised more than 13,000 by the start of August. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Snoop Dogg has become one of the most notable figures at the Paris 2024 Olympics, and for good reason too. The legendary rapper has delivered some hilarious commentary throughout this years Olympics, from wearing full equestrian gear for the dressage event to trading pins with Team USA. The Gin and Juice rapper, whose real name is Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr, has been working for NBC as a special correspondent for the Paris 2024 Olympics. However, it seems that Snoop Dogg was allegedly given a pretty penny for his now-viral Olympic appearances. Henry L McNamara a New York-based venture capitalist and Forbes 30-Under-30 honoree recently took to X, formerly Twitter, to share Snoop Doggs supposed Olympics paycheck. Sat next to an NBC exec at dinner, McNamara wrote on August 4. He said Snoop gets paid $500,000 a day plus expenses to be here promoting [the] Olympics. From Gin and Juice to a few million to be a celebrity at the Olympics what a world, he added. The Grammy-nominated artist touched down in Paris, France, ahead of the Olympics opening ceremony on Friday, July 26. He is scheduled to provide commentary for NBC until the end of the Olympics on Sunday, August 11. According to McNamara, Snoop Dogg will allegedly cash in a whopping total of $8m for the entire 16-day span of the Paris 2024 Olympics. Despite the shocking amount, many fans believed Snoop Doggs supposed paycheck is well-deserved, considering the memorable moments hes delivered throughout this years games. Worth every penny, one fan wrote on X, while another user replied to McNamaras post: Worth it! Snoop Dogg is rocking the @Olympics! A third person chimed in: He is worth 2x that amount. Snoop is America. The Independent has contacted NBC for comment. Snoop Dogg went viral on Saturday when he attended the equestrian team dressage event with close friend and business partner Martha Stewart. The record producer and the lifestyle guru arrived at the competition in full equestrian gear, complete with riding helmets, jackets, white pants, and matching sunglasses. Speaking to Today, Stewart explained that the rapper had asked her to attend the dressage event with him due to his fear of horses. Snoop called me, and he knows I love horses, the 83-year-old cookbook author told the outlet. Hes a little fearful of horses. open image in gallery Snoop Dogg and Martha Stewart watch the dressage team Grand Prix final at the Paris 2024 Olympics ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) The Drop It Like Its Hot rapper also had viewers in stitches after he was given a private tour of the Louvre museum. In a video posted to Instagram last week, Snoop Dogg was dressed in full Team USA gear as he walked around the Paris museum with his shades on. You ever seen Night at the Museum? he began the video, referencing the 2006 comedy film. Well, tonight you get to go in the museum with Snoop Dogg and were finna be snooping around. He was then given a one-on-one tour from one of the Louvres guides, as he commented on iconic works of art like Leonardo Da Vincis Mona Lisa and the Winged Victory of Samothrace sculpture. I just found out I was Mona Lisas twin brother, Tony Lisa, Snoop Dogg jokingly told the camera. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The Colorado funeral home owners who allegedly stored 190 decaying bodies and sent grieving families fake ashes were ordered by a judge to pay $950 million to the victims' relatives in a civil case, the attorney announced Monday. The judgement is unlikely to be paid out since the owners have been in financial trouble for years, making it largely symbolic. The owners, Jon and Carie Hallford, did not acknowledge the civil case or show up to hearings, said the attorney representing families, Andrew Swan. The Hallfords, who own Return to Nature Funeral Home in Colorado Springs, about an hour south of Denver, face criminal charges in separate cases. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Paramilitaries are suspected to have been an element in the latest disorder in Belfast. Police came under sustained attack and the victim of a suspected hate crime is in a serious condition in hospital after violence in Belfast on Monday night. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said at one stage petrol was poured over a police Land Rover and set alight. Police deployed two attenuating energy projectiles (AEPs), with one rioter struck on the hand. A 15-year-old boy has been charged with two counts of riot, and possession of a weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence, police said. He will appear before Belfast Magistrates Court on Wednesday. The latest violence began late on Monday in the same area where two businesses were attacked on Saturday following an anti-immigration protest. Political leaders have called for calm, and both the Stormont Executive and Assembly are set to meet later this week. On Tuesday evening, Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn said: The violence which has sowed fear in local communities and damaged businesses is totally unacceptable. The people of Northern Ireland deserve better. I urge those involved to stop this senseless violence and intimidation. Police said attempts were made to set fire to a supermarket which had been targeted on Saturday night, but officers were able to douse the small blaze before it developed. Speaking to the media during a press conference at PSNI headquarters on Tuesday, Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said she has no doubt there is a paramilitary element. She also described a difference in the disorder on Monday compared with Saturday, with younger adults appearing to be directed by older people. We have an open mind as to who is orchestrating and organising this, she said. What we saw last night, we feel was different from what we saw on Saturday. On Saturday, we saw mainly older adult people who became involved in disorder. Last night it was clear to us that there was a younger element, teenagers mainly, who were involved in the disorder, but that there was an element of organisation and orchestration from what appeared to be older adults present at the scene. I have no doubt there is a paramilitary element to this, but I am not in a position to say that this is the main organiser or orchestrator of these events. However, we do keep an open mind to this and this will be part of our investigative strategy. She added: We have a widespread investigation ongoing both to deal with what we have seen happen but also to identify who is responsible for orchestrating, organising and stirring up violence and disorder in the background. We continue to work with colleagues from across the UK to make sure that we are picking up on anything which is relevant here from their investigations and their intelligence gathering. In terms of paramilitaries, we know that we have some elements still remaining in our communities that will use the history of Northern Ireland to stir up violence and promote division and intolerance, and we believe that that played some part in what we have seen in the last three days. However, we remain open-minded about other elements that are instigating and orchestrating those as well. Staff from the Sham Supermarket and supporters were at the scene on Tuesday morning counting the costs. Butcher Jamal Ghabes told the PA news agency: What can we say, nothing. Its very bad. I came from Syria to here. I didnt think I would see something like this. Im not sure if the shop will open again if we dont have support. A smaller protest had taken place on Monday evening in Belfast city centre. The PSNI said its officers came under sustained attack over a number of hours with multiple petrol bombs, heavy masonry and bricks thrown in their direction. Petrol was also poured over a police Land Rover and set alight. Thankfully the occupants of the vehicle were not physically harmed and remained on duty, the force said. Ms Jones said the man in his 50s who was assaulted in the area on Monday had been brutally attacked by a mob in what we are classifying as a hate motivated assault. Witnesses reported seeing his attackers stamp on his head as other decent members of the public attempted to shield him from further attack, she said. Police officers managed to get this man to safety and secure his medical treatment. He remains being treated in hospital at this time with serious injuries. Police said that, at around 5pm on Monday, there was a protest and a counter-protest involving approximately 40 people in the area of Ormeau Avenue. Officers attended to ensure an appropriate and proportionate policing response, they said. A report was then made of criminal damage to a family home in the Pandora Street area with windows broken. A small group gathered at the junction of University Road/Bradbury Place before moving to Donegall Road. However, larger crowds gathered, with some masked rioters mounting attacks on officers. Ms Jones said the disorder, violence and destruction has no place in Belfast or anywhere else across the streets of Northern Ireland. We are engaging with groups that have been affected by this disorder and we are gathering evidence, CCTV and other footage to progress criminal investigations, she said. We are working at pace to identify offenders and make arrests. We are determined to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. Anyone who has information or who can help identify those responsible is asked to contact us on 101. DUP minister Gordon Lyons said there is no justification whatsoever for this violence, adding that he condemns it in the strongest possible terms. I want to send my thoughts to those who have been most affected. Those affected personally and those whose businesses have been affected as well, he told the BBCs Good Morning Ulster programme. There is never any justification for this type of violent behaviour. There is no justification for attack on the police and it needs to stop, and it needs to stop straight away, and Im glad that we do have united political leadership right across all parties on this in Northern Ireland. Asked about the motivation behind the original anti-immigration protest on Saturday, Mr Lyons said legitimate concerns should be heard but that there is no justification for violence. Certainly there are additional pressures on some public services in parts of Northern Ireland. Im aware there has been additional pressure put on the provision of housing. Overall across Northern Ireland that might be quite low around about 5% of homeless applications are as a result of those who have no accommodation in Northern Ireland but in some parts of Belfast in particular that number is much higher and local communities are feeling the impact of that, he said. Of course this is an issue which is being felt right across the UK and elsewhere. Let me be clear, that doesnt mean there is any justification for violence. If you have concerns, if you want to express those concerns, there are legitimate, peaceful and democratic ways in which you can do that. What I dont think we should do is downplay how some people are feeling about this issue. When we try to dismiss the legitimate concerns of people, it adds to the frustration that many people feel. Four men linked to disorder on Saturday appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court on Monday. The court heard that police believe more violence linked to planned anti-immigration protests is likely in Belfast in the coming days. A judge described scenes of disorder in the city at the weekend as absolutely disgraceful as he refused bail to the four men. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Police are investigating attacks on cars and a pub after hundreds of people turned out in Birmingham following reports of a far-right rally that failed to take place. On the seventh day of disorder on the UKs streets, huge crowds descended on Bordesley on Monday night, with footage showing gangs of men in balaclavas, some shouting Free Palestine and holding Palestinian flags, after rumours circulated that the far-right were planning to target the area. A large number of protesters are seen surrounding the Clumsy Swan pub on Stoney Lane before launching an attack on the building in videos widely circulated on social media, with police confirming it is investigating incidents of criminal damage. A Sky News van was attacked by a man with a knife as the TV crew attempted to leave the area after being told they were not welcome, reporter Becky Johnson later said. Ms Johnson was interrupted by a protester on a motorbike who swore and made rude gestures at the camera while she attempted to deliver a live report. West Midlands Police (WMP) said it is investigating after the windows of a car were smashed and the tyres of another vehicle were damaged. The force and the local MP, Jess Phillips, vowed to bring the perpetrators of the latest violence to justice, as more than 370 arrests have been made so far in the wake of the Southport stabbings. Violence broke out in Birmingham overnight as masked men holding Palestinian flags were seen ( X ) A journalist working for 5Pillars, a UK-based news site covering current affairs related to Islam and Muslims, reported that Muslim elders visited the Clumsy Swan on Monday night to apologise to the staff for Muslim youths attacking a customer who they believed was a far-right rioter. Sky News reported its journalists had observed a large gathering of Muslim men who said they were preparing to defend the street from another rumoured far-right protest in the area. WMP said a large number of people had gathered in Bordesley but there were no clashes with members of an opposing group, and despite social media speculation over a far-right protest, it did not take place. Ms Phillips suggested that the rumours of the far-right gathering had been deliberately spread in a bid to cause trouble but former home secretary James Cleverly accused her of making excuses for masked men shouting, abusing and intimidating members of the media. On the seventh day of disorder on Britains streets, huge crowds descended on the area of Bordesley on Monday night ( X ) The force confirmed it was investigating reports of a man who was in possession of an offensive weapon, as well as other incidents and pledged to work hard to identify and arrest those responsible. No arrests have been made at this stage but there were sporadic incidents and we are investigating reports of an assault, incidents of criminal damage to a pub on Stoney Lane, a car which had its windows smashed on Alcombe Grove, Stechford and further criminal damage to a vehicle which had its tyres damaged on Belchers Lane, Bordesley Green, WMP said. Chief Superintendent Richard North said: Fortunately rumours of the significant protest activity in the city didnt materialise. There were several sporadic incidents of criminality during the evening and we will work hard to arrest those responsible. We want to reassure you that anyone participating in any criminality on our streets will be dealt with robustly. You will continue to see an increased police presence on our streets over the coming days to offer reassurance to our communities. Safeguarding minister and Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips said perpetrators of violence will face the consequences no matter who they are ( PA Archive ) Safeguarding minister and Birmingham Yardley MP Ms Phillips said perpetrators of violence will face the consequences no matter who they are. It comes as police were injured during sustained violence in Plymouth on Monday, as bricks and fireworks were launched towards officers who had attempted to keep rival demonstrations apart. Devon and Cornwall Police said six arrests were made in the Devon port city. At least one person was also arrested in Darlington after bricks were thrown at officers during violent disorder on Monday evening, according to Durham Police. Meanwhile, the Police Service of Northern Ireland said it was disorder broke out in the Donegall Road area of south Belfast, with the BBC reporting riot officers had stones and petrol bombs thrown at them. Sir Keir Starmer vowed to ramp up criminal justice after an emergency Cobra meeting was called ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Earlier in the day, the prime minister announced a standing army of specialist police officers was being assembled to crack down on rioting, as he called for perpetrators to be named and shamed. Sir Keir Starmer vowed to ramp up criminal justice after an emergency Cobra meeting was called following disorder over the weekend, which saw rioters storm hotels housing asylum seekers. There have been at least 378 arrests since the violence broke out after three young girls were killed last week, with the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) warning the total is expected to rise each day. In Southport, hundreds of people attended a peaceful vigil a week on from the killings of Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, in a stabbing attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The worst of the far-right violence seen during riots across the country should be treated as terrorism, Britains former head of counter-terrorism has warned. Neil Basu said attempts to set asylum seeker accommodation ablaze in Rotherham was nothing short of an attempt at a modern-day lynching as he hit-out at the racially motivated attacks. The shocking scenes saw an angry far-right mob target the towns Holiday Inn Express on Saturday, pelting it with rocks and debris while asylum seekers were inside. Men in balaclavas managed to push their way through a shattered window before attempting to torch the building with some heard chanting: Get them out. Anti-migration protesters during riots outside of the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham ( Getty ) It comes as police battle a week of action by far-right groups, with almost 400 arrests so far following clashes across the country after misinformation spread over the stabbing of three girls in Southport. Trying to set ablaze a building with people inside, whom you have made clear you detest, is an act of violence against people and property with a racial cause designed to intimidate a section of the public be it Muslims or asylum seekers, Mr Basu told the Guardian. Not only does it fit the definition of terrorism, it is terrorism. Its nothing short of an attempt at a modern-day lynching and the people who did it should be facing life imprisonment, not a five-year sentence for violent disorder. Mr Basu, who held the top counter-terror job between 2018 and 2021, said some of the violence during riots has crossed the line into terrorism, adding: I hope my successors are looking at that very closely. He told the BBC: I think we have seen serious acts of violence designed to cause terror to a section of our community. Riot police officers push back anti-migration protesters outside the Holiday Inn Express Hotel in Rotherham ( Getty Images ) The Terrorism Act 2000 defines terrorism as the threat or use of serious violence against a person, serious damage to property, endangering life or creating a serious risk to the public or section of the public, for the purpose of advancing a political, religious, racial or ideological cause. A number of extreme right wing groups have been designated as proscribed terrorist groups in recent years amid a rise in far-right terror, including National Action, Sonnenkrieg Division and The Base. It is not yet clear if police are treating any of the crimes linked to the riots as terror-related. However a CPS spokesman told The Independent prosecutors will look at all relevant offences and apply the full force of the law. The spokesman added: We cant speculate about what people will be charged with but well look at all the relevant offences and wont hesitate to apply the full force of the law if thats where the evidence leads. Mr Basu also called for gaps in the law around far-right influencers to be addressed to stop people with large followings like Tommy Robinson from glorifying and creating violence from his sunbed in the Mediterranean. Tommy Robinson posted social media messages from a luxury holiday resort in Cyprus ( X/TripAdvisor ) It comes after it emerged Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, had been posting a series of inflammatory messages on X, formerly Twitter, from a 400-a night luxury resort in Cyprus. Yaxley-Lennon knows well hes in the full glare of policing, counter-terrorism policing, and the security service, Mr Basu told the BBC. Meanwhile ministers met social media giants this week amid fears that misinformation and posts to online forums are fuelling violent disorder. Technology secretary Peter Kyle confirmed he had met representatives from TikTok, Facebooks parent company Meta, Google and X to make clear their responsibility to continue to work with us to stop the spread of hateful misinformation and incitement. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A video circulating on social media showing a girl shouting racial slurs in the street while holding hands with an adult has attracted widespread condemnation. In the footage, a girl can be seen skipping down the street holding the arm of an older woman as she repeatedly chants P***s out ahead of an anti-immigration demonstration in Belfast. The woman filming the clip can be heard challenging them as she accuses the older woman of teaching the girl racism. "It is really embarrassing that you would bring your child and let them say something like that. It is really embarrassing you are teaching your child racism, she says. Since the disorder began last week, campaigners have accused parents at far-right riots of hypocrisy for endangering their sons and daughters by taking them to violent demonstrations where they chant about protecting children. Labour MP Kate Osborne told The Independent children should not be exposed to far-right thuggery and rioters doing Nazi salutes as she condemned parents taking children to riot and commit violence and put them at risk of being injured. Ms Osborne said: It is disturbing to see young kids on the streets chanting racist slogans, calling people names, and worrying that their parents think its okay to indoctrinate their kids this way. The reports of arrests of kids as young as 11 and the video that has emerged of a young girl at a protest shouting the P-word while skipping down the street in Belfast is an example of how this awful behaviour is playing out. We have been appalled to see evidence of parents bringing their children to watch horrifying scenes of far-right violence at numerous events over this past week. Joe Mulhall More than 400 people have been arrested after riots on the weekend, with thugs trying to set fire to hotels housing asylum seekers in Rotherham and Tamworth. Children and teenagers have been seen among the mobs with families and on their own. On Monday, a 14-year-old boy pleaded guilty in Liverpool to violent disorder after he set off fireworks towards members of the public and a police carrier. Last week, an 11-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of torching a police car and a 13-year-old boy on suspicion of violent disorder in Hartlepool. After the footage from Belfast emerged, a spokesperson for the Police Service of Northern Ireland said: Some of the scenes we have witnessed on the streets of Belfast over recent days have been disgusting and do not reflect the views and feelings of broader Northern Irish society. There is absolutely no excuse for such racist, violent and disruptive behaviour and we will do everything in our power, with the resources that we have, to prevent further disorder, and to bring those people responsible before the courts. It is essential that the wider public help us with this by telling us what they know about those involved in this disorder. Joe Mulhall, director of research at Hope Not Hate, said: We have been appalled to see evidence of parents bringing their children to watch horrifying scenes of far-right violence at numerous events over this past week. There have also been examples of young people involved in rioting and racist chanting. Some of those involved will find themselves in serious legal trouble. Education starts at home and it is so important that parents teach tolerance and understanding, not racism and hate. Maria Kitsiou, head of domestic children at Osbornes Law, said parents taking children to a riot risks being referred to social services. A parental decision to take a child to a far-right riot will expose that child to violence and the risk of physical and emotional harm which will constitute parental neglect, she said. The parent will be placing the childs safety at risk. The reports of arrests of kids as young as 11 and the video that has emerged of a young girl at a protest shouting the P-word while skipping down the street in Belfast is an example of how this awful behaviour is playing out. Kate Osborne The violent far-right protests in England and Northern Ireland broke out in the wake of the killing of three young girls in Southport. Axel Rudakubana, 17, has been charged with the murders of three children at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club in Southport. The young defendants anonymity was lifted by a judge, who cited the importance of quashing misinformation spreading online. Rudakubana turns 18 on Wednesday. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A grandmother was allegedly struck in the face with a Taser by a police officer at Manchester Airport moments after he kicked her motionless son, the familys lawyer has claimed. Shameem Akhtar, 56, believed for a moment that both her sons Fahir Amaaz, 19, and Muhammad Amaad, 25 had been killed by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) after they were allegedly Tasered and later knelt on by officers, said their solicitor Aamer Anwar. Speaking at a press conference in Manchester city centre on Tuesday, Mr Anwar also revealed the tirade of alleged racist abuse from a male airline passenger that sparked the confrontation. Protests erupted in Rochdale and Manchester city centre after a video circulated on social media showing the incident during an arrest at the airport on 23 July. More footage, obtained by the Manchester Evening News, emerged days later, which showed the immediate lead-up to the disturbance at the airports Terminal 2 car park pay station area. Male and female officers tried to restrain Mr Amaaz and Mr Amaad, who were involved in a series of strikes and punches with two women officers hit to the ground before Mr Amaaz was tasered. Stating that investigations are ongoing, GMP said: We are fully cooperating with the independent investigation reviewing police conduct, while actively pursuing lines of enquiry into three incidents. Protests erupted in Rochdale and Manchester city centre after a video circulated on social media showed the kicking incident during an arrest at the airport on 23 July ( X ) The family, from Rochdale, Greater Manchester, appeared alongside their solicitor at Tuesdays press conference to set the record straight after a deliberate attempt to smear the family, revealing further alleged mistreatment and details about how the pandemonium at the pay station unfolded. Mr Anwar said the family had been left devastated and traumatised by the incident and had also been subjected to horrific, racist and Islamophobic abuse on social media. After the apparent stamping, Mrs Akhtar attempted to pull her sons head away and thought the officer could have killed her son at that point, said Mr Anwar. Mr Anwar went on: The male it is alleged as seen in the video then kneels down on Fahir placing his knee on his back whilst he is still limp and he then looks up straight at Mrs Akhtar. At this point, the male officer still has his Taser drawn, then using his right hand in which he has his Taser it is alleged he strikes Mrs Akhtar directly in the face using his Taser as a weapon. At this point Mrs Akhtar screamed and held her face as she was terrified that she would now be subjected to the same violence as she alleges her sons were. Left to right, Muhammad Amaad, Shameem Akhtar, lawyer Aamer Anwar and Fahir Amaaz, at the press conference in Manchester ( PA Wire ) She said Mrs Akhtar later touched her face and noticed she was bleeding from her cheek underneath her left eye and that she was dazed, crying and disorientated, with photographs showing bruising to the left side of her face. Mr Anwar said no officer attended to her injuries as she and her crying, distressed, six-year-old grandson were left with luggage strewn everywhere. A police officer was suspended by GMP in the wake of the incident and the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) later said a police constable, understood to be the same officer, was under criminal investigation for assault. Following the release of the later footage, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, urged people to take a step back and allow the authorities to carry out their investigations. Mr Amaaz and Mr Amaad were among four men who were arrested on suspicion of affray and assault before they were later bailed. Solicitor Aamer Anwar holds up a picture of the injury allegedly suffered by Shameem Akhtar ( PA Wire ) Mr Anwar said the family fully supports the robust, due legal process if Mr Amaaz and Mr Amaad stand accused of criminality but they do not currently have a single conviction. He added that he is seeking a further meeting with IOPC regional director Catherine Bates over lodging a formal complaint against GMP officers, and also a meeting with the mayor. The solicitor said: When they get it right the police should be praised and the family wish to place on record their thanks to the police who for days have had to face right-wing racist thugs. But he added: In our democracy, we have the right to expect that those in uniform will not act as thugs and will act within the law. Outlining what he said sparked the incident, Mr Anwar said Mrs Akhtar was earlier subjected to a tirade of alleged racist abuse from a fellow passenger, a male Kuwaiti national, on a Qatar Airways flight as she made use of an empty seat because she was feeling unwell while returning from a holiday in Pakistan. A Stand Up To Racism demonstration in Manchester after the police officer was suspended ( PA Wire ) He said: Shortly after making use of the seat, she could hear a male muttering in the row behind her ... The male went out of his way over the course of the next several hours to subject her to a tirade of alleged racist abuse. He said Mrs Akhtar was scared the man was going to physically assault her as he towered over her hurling abuse despite her appeals for him to calm down. She claimed the male later used his hand luggage to repeatedly bump into her as she headed towards the baggage claim area. Mrs Akhtar saw her two sons and grandchild when she exited arrivals and broke down into tears, said Mr Anwar, and recounted her ordeal, before later noticing the male passenger. Mr Anwar said: Both her sons approached the male and questioned him regarding the abuse. The male was rude and proceeded to laugh in her sons faces. An altercation then took place. Mr Anwar said he had previously raised concerns at GMPs failure to investigate an alleged hate crime against Mrs Akhtar, who feels betrayed. GMP has appealed for any witnesses to the altercation on Qatar Airways flight QR023, which arrived at 7.20pm, the second violent altercation at Starbucks at 8.22pm and the incident at the car park paypoint area at 8.28pm. Qatar Airways declined to comment. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A neo-Nazi cleaner has admitted collecting a stash of terrorist manuals from the age of 16, including how to make a home-made submachine gun. Vitor Dias, now 21, had a fascination with Adolf Hitler and Nazi creed when he downloaded material from the internet over four years, the Old Bailey heard. He pleaded guilty to four counts of possessing a document containing information useful for terrorist purposes with a further three similar offences to lie on the court file. Opening the facts, prosecutor Christopher Amis said the defendant grew up in Brazil, before moving to England with his family in 2020 and working as a cleaner. Following raids on his home in Willesden Green, north-west London, police found that between 2019 and 2023, when Dias was aged between 16 and 20, he had collected terrorist material and information demonstrating a extreme mindset. It included information on how to make explosives and ammunition, and building a home-made submachine gun from scratch using metal sheets and tubes. He also possessed a manual detailing guerrilla tactics, equipment and weapons, home-made explosives, firearms manufacture and booby traps. Mr Amis said: The material in his possession and communications in which he has taken part indicate that Vitor Dias is an adherent of Nazi ideology and far-right political causes, embracing as it does a hatred of Jews, LGBT persons and foreigners. What we suggest is that he deliberately accessed, and therefore came into possession of, material from the internet which, if he were a terrorist, would have been useful for his purposes. The court was told Dias shared his extreme views in WhatsApp messages with people said to be schoolboy friends. He engaged in chat about antisemitic conspiracy theories and sent a video of a young American boy shouting racist abuse while holding a gun and a large knife, the court was told. He had also made internet searches for material of concern under the terms Do hitmans use knives, Butchering with push dagger and Disposing of bodies with beetles, the court was told. Dias continued to access terrorist material even after being warned by police not to in September 2022. In police interviews, he had claimed to be unaware of what he was downloading or said he did so unintentionally. Mr Amis said the evidence showed he was deliberately downloading material from different, specific sites of interest and not merely stumbling across material he wasnt really interested in and didnt care to look at. Judge Mark Dennis KC is expected to sentence Dias at the Old Bailey on October 3. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A rioter who went viral after looting a number of shops including a Lush cosmetics store in Hull has received one of the longest sentences after weeks of violent disorder. John Honey, 25, was pictured wearing a distinctive St Georges Cross T-shirt and carrying boxes of bathbombs when the store was ransacked on 3 August, before also stealing goods from O2 and Shoezone. As well as participating in the ransacking of the high street, he was part of a baying mob that forced three Romanian men from their BMW, leaving them terrified. Honey has been jailed for over four years for taking part in the violent disorder (Humberside Police/PA) ( PA Media ) A court heard the driver of a BMW was left in fear for his life when more than 100 angry men descended on him and his two cousins and attempted to drag them from their vehicle during 12 hours of racist, hate-fuelled mob violence in the city on August 3. The man said he was punched in the head, and one person tried to hit him with a metal bar. In footage of the incident, the three terrified occupants of the car could be seen getting out with their hands raised in a gesture of surrender before fleeing to a nearby hotel, the court heard. Honey had pulled open the passenger door while David Wilkinson, 48, was seen damaging the windscreen of the vehicle. He has now been jailed for 56 months after previously pleading guilty to violent disorder and three charges of burglary at Lush, the O2 and Shoezone. A manager at Lush said the incident had massively impacted staff ( X/Twitter ) Video footage played to the court showed him carrying on of the Lush branded bags and filling it with products, with the manager saying the incident had massively impacted the staff. A previous sentencing hearing that had been due to take place earlier this week was adjourned after it emerged Honey had asked a prison probation officer if he wanted his autograph because he was famous. During Fridays hearing, the judge was informed that Honey had developmental issues due to a difficult start to life. Judge John Thackray KC told Honey: Im not going to hear any evidence about comments which you may or may not have made in the prison setting. Im not going to give them any relevance. If your defence say that there is now genuine remorse, Ill accept that submission. He also admitted racially aggravated criminal damage over the BMW incident, and to damaging nine other cars during an attack on a garage. David Wilkinson, 48, has been jailed for six years for his role in the Sunderland riots (Humberside Police) ( PA Media ) Also jailed on Friday was Wilkinson, who received a six year sentence after playing a prominent role in the riots, which saw him spitting, throwing missiles and pushing wheelie bins towards police officers. In the same garage attack, he was seen trying to set fire to a bin on top of a pile of tyres which were already alight, sending plumes of black smoke into a workshop where a group of people were sheltering. Four men who took part in a barrage of verbal and physical abuse towards police during the riots were also locked up at the same court. Also jailed today for two years and two months was Paul Williams, a 45-year-old man who was at the forefront of an orgy of mindless destruction, violence and disorder in Sunderland. During the rioting, he was seen throwing metal fencing and a can of beer at police before taking his shirt off and shouting put your shields down and lets go, lets f****** go. Lisa Bishop was jailed for 26 months after admitting violent disorder ( Avon and Somerset Police ) A mother-of-five who was part of a terrifying mob outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in Bristol has also been jailed for 26 months after throwing a can and shouting verbal abuse. Lisa Bishop, 38, was in a prominent position outside the Mercure hotel, which left police officers overwhelmed as they struggled to maintain order. A second riot charge has been brought by police as violent disorder suspects across the country await news on whether they will be accused of the more serious offence. Northumbria Police said on Friday that Kieran Usher had become their second suspect to be charged with riot, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The 32-year-old appeared at South Tyneside Magistrates Court on Friday, where prosecutors said he had acted in an aggressive manner towards police officers and threw missiles at them during the unrest. It followed the forces announcement that a 15-year-old boy had been charged with the more serious offence after having previously pleaded guilty to violent disorder and burglary on Saturday. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Nearly 400 people have been arrested following violence and disorder across the country for a seventh day after the Southport stabbings, with police warning that further violence is likely in the coming days. Several towns and cities in England and Northern Ireland saw violent clashes involving far-right demonstrators, with dozens of police officers left injured. There was unrest in Birmingham, Manchester, Hull, Liverpool, Bristol, Stoke-on-Trent, Blackpool, Rotherham, Middlesbrough and Belfast, with missiles thrown and shops looted. The string of violent incidents over the past few days began on Tuesday 30 July in Southport, after three girls were killed in a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club. Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer vowed rioters would regret engaging in far-right thuggery and face the full force of the law. Follow our live coverage of the UK riots The interactive map below shows the towns and cities where there was disorder and the number of arrests made. The far right has drawn condemnation from MPs across the political spectrum after disorder in London, Manchester, Southport and Hartlepool came before the weekends violence. False claims had spread online that the suspect, later identified as a 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana from Lancashire, was an asylum seeker who had arrived in the UK by boat in 2023. Arrests have been made across the country with police warning of more to come once CCTV, social media and body-worn camera footage has been scoured. Devon and Cornwall Police said six arrests were made in Plymouth on Monday after several officers suffered minor injuries and two members of the public were taken to hospital. In Southport, hundreds of people attended a peaceful vigil a week on from the killings of Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar. Children blew bubbles and others left flowers and heart-shaped balloons. Police in Northern Ireland said officers were dealing with ongoing disorder in the Donegall Road area of south Belfast, with the BBC reporting riot officers had stones and petrol bombs thrown at them. Sky News reported on Monday that one of its vans was attacked in Birmingham by a knife-wielding man. There were ugly scenes of anti-immigration rioters attacking police and smashing the windows of a hotel in Rotherham on Sunday as the atmosphere turned increasingly febrile on Sunday. Masked men hurled lengths of wood, chairs and bottles, and sprayed fire extinguishers at officers outside after some 700 people gathered. At least 10 officers were injured, including one who was knocked unconscious, South Yorkshire Police confirmed later, saying one person had been arrested and that others involved should expect us to be at their doors very soon. Masked men hurled lengths of wood, chairs and bottles in Rotherham on Sunday ( Reuters ) On Monday, the prime minister said a standing army of specialist police officers was being assembled to crack down on rioting, as he called for perpetrators to be named and shamed. Sir Keir Starmer vowed to ramp up criminal justice after an emergency Cobra meeting was called following disorder over the weekend which saw rioters storm hotels housing asylum seekers. Downing Street criticised X owner Elon Musk for claiming civil war is inevitable in the UK, with officials suggesting online misinformation fuelling disorder on Britains streets may be being amplified by foreign state actors. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Keir Starmer has hit back at Nigel Farage after he accused police in the UK of carrying out two-tier policing in their response to ongoing far-right riots. Violent scenes have erupted in the last week following the killings of three young girls in Southport by 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana. Several others were injured in the attack, with the suspect due to stand trial in January. Misinformation became rife following the tragic incident, with false reports of Rudakubanas religion and migration status shared widely on social media. Far-right rioters took to the streets of Southport on the day after the attack, clashing with police and causing severe damage to the town. Riot police hold back protesters near a burning police vehicle in Southport on July 30, 2024 ( Getty ) This was followed by more than 20 similar events over the weekend. During and after the riots, police have arrested more than 400 people. Dozens of police officers have also been injured, with rioters often targeting them. A number of the far right protests have involved racist or Islamaphobic chants, with some participants seen making Nazi salutes, while black and Asian people have been attacked in broad daylight. Responding to the police response to the disorder, Mr Farage said: The impression of two-tier policing has become widespread, adding: The Prime Ministers faltering attempts to address the current crisis have only added to that sense of injustice. The term two-tier policing, often spread by far-right conspiracists and now being peddled by Elon Musk on Twitter, refers to how police handle different groups in society. The baseless claim, often illustrated with cherry-picked incidents that ignore others, is that forces are being more heavy-handed with people on the right than the left. The prime minister has said this is a non-issue, and that policing in the UK is carried out without fear or favour and experts say the two-tier term is not only wrong, but dangerous and misleading. Ruth Ehrlich, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Liberty, said: Politicians and media should not be equating legitimate protest movements calling for social progress and social justice with what we are seeing today. Which is really Islamaphobic and racist movements that are causing destruction up and down the country. Whats the law on protesting in the UK? Nottinghamshire Police arrested 15 people at a protest in the citys Old Market Square ( PA Wire ) Crucially, protest is not illegal. Freedom of expression and assembly are protected rights under the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR), which the UK is beholden to. It is when an assembled group becomes violent or begins to carry out unlawful acts or at least plans to that police can lawfully step in. A persons right to protest can be restricted to prevent crime or disorder, protect public health, or protect the rights of others. A senior police officer can also put conditions on a protest if they believe serious public disorder or damage could be caused, the community could be disrupted, too much noise could be generated, or intimidation may occur. But there is a difference between peaceful protest, and what has been happening in the UK over the past week. Ms Ehrlich explains: These people are not protesting, they are rioting. And that is a different area of law. In the UK, people are charged for specific criminal offences relating to their actions. A person can be guilty of violent disorder or a riot if they use or threaten unlawful violence which causes anyone to fear for their personal safety. Participants may also be charged with specific incidents of assault criminal damage or arson, among others. Were police soft on Black Lives Matter protesters? Thousands of protestors hold signs at a Black Live Matters rally on June 13, 2020 in Brighton ( Getty Images ) The 2020 Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests were largely peaceful events, with the two key organisers Black Lives Matter UK and Stand Up To Racism not found by authorities to have incited attendees to act aggressively. Between May and June 2020, there were around 135 arrests across a reported 200 protests. This was largely in central London, as protesters clashed with police on a few separate dates in June. These isolated incidents mostly saw people charged with offences related to assault, disorder, criminal damage or Covid distancing laws. The latter was often related to defacing statues or government buildings, a practice that became divisive at the height of the protests. Responding to the protests, former prime minister Boris Johnsons said at the time : racist violence has no place in our society, but added that all actions should take place in accordance with the rules on social distancing. On a few occasions, protesters clashed with counter-protesters who were in attendance to protect monuments such as Londons cenotaph. Those carrying out criminal damage would largely choose targets related to Britains colonial past such as Bristols Edward Colston statue. These protests were not free from police response, Ms Ehrlich says: It is complete nonsense to say that we have not seen heavy-handed policing of legitimate forms of protest in recent years. Without wanting to suggest [the far-right riots and BLM protests] are comparable events, we saw examples of excessive force being used on protesters, we saw kettling. What we are seeing in these situations today is people taking to the streets, thats spreading very quickly. Its just a completely different movement from the BLM protests. How were the 2011 riots policed? Rioters took to the streets of North London demanding justice after the shooting of Mark Duggan in 2011 (Lewis Whyld/PA) ( PA Archive ) In August 2011, riots broke out in London, soon spreading to pockets all over the UK. The action began as public anti-racist protests in response to the fatal shooting of 29-year-old Mark Duggan, but certain groups then mobilised over the following days to become violent and disorderly. The most severe disorder took place in London, as rioters clashed with police, destroyed vehicles, and looted shops. Incidents continued from August 6 to 11, with news footage showing police struggling to combat the growing violence. In the aftermath, many critics said police did not act quickly or effectively enough to curb the violence. Public opinion was split on whether the police used enough force, but human rights charity Liberty said at the time that it was proportionate. More than 3,000 people were arrested during the disorder, and 186 police officers injured. The Criminal Prosecution Service (CPS), led at the time by Sir Keir, responded severely. Emergency legislation was introduced to open courts for 24-hours, as thousands of people were processed. Sentences were 25 percent higher than usual on average, with experts saying it seemed the government was seeking to make an example of would-be rioters. In another unprecedented move, bail was denied for all of those awaiting trial. It is understood this was to prevent the spread of further disorder. Of those arrested, 78 percent had a previous caution or conviction. Its likely many of the emergency measures will be used as the CPS works to sentence those involved in the far-right riots over the past few days. Get Nadine White's Race Report newsletter for a fresh perspective on the week's news Get our free newsletter from The Independent's Race Correspondent Get our free newsletter from The Independent's Race Correspondent Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the The Race Report email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Viral video footage has exposed violent race rioters blocking traffic in North Yorkshire to check if drivers were white or English before letting them through. As unrest grips the nation, footage thats been widely shared across social media shows several white men in Middlesbrough screening vehicle drivers ethnicity. In one clip, men stop a a grey car at an intersection and look through the window, before another man wearing a red t-shirt beckons the driver forward. Are you white? Are you English?, the same man can be heard saying, while pointing at drivers. The area was described at the time as a no go zone for Black and Asian people, owing to these checks, with one online user posting: God knows whatll happen if they find black or brown people driving. Are you white? Are you English?, a white man can be heard saying, while pointing at drivers ( Supplied ) The person recording the footage appears to say: Are you white? Actually mental, while the person in the red top continues to traffic and asks drivers if they are white. Cleveland Police has been approached for comment. The Independent is rounding up and verifying details of horrifying racist incidents carried out by far-right thugs across these riots which, so far, include a Black man beaten by a mob, an Asian man stabbed at a train station, mosques under siege and Muslim graves vandalised. Last week, footage shared online appeared to show violent far-right rioters dragging an Asian man, believed to be a taxi driver, out of his car in Hull, while racially abusing him by repeatedly yelling P**i, and damaging the vehicle. There have been at least 378 arrests since the race riots broke out last week, with the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) warning the total is expected to rise each day. A restaurant owner clears debris from the street in front of his restaurant in Middlesbrough, following rioting and looting ( AFP via Getty Images ) On Monday, prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said a standing army of specialist police officers was being assembled to crack down on rioting, as he called for perpetrators to be named and shamed. Sir Keir vowed to ramp up criminal justice after an emergency Cobra meeting was called following disorder over the weekend which saw rioters storm hotels housing asylum seekers. The prime minister said he was focused on ensuring police can carry out their duties, as MPs from across the political spectrum demanded Parliament return from its summer recess. Over 80 anti-racist and migrants rights organisations have also written to Sir Keir urging the prime minister to recall parliament. Organisation Tell Mama, which monitors anti-Muslim attacks, said it had called the police over far-right threats on Telegram that seek to target immigration solicitors and refugee services in more than 30 locations across the country on Wednesday. It had been 1,920 days of waiting when the verdict came through. It arrived five years after Jasmine* first reported PC Phil Hunter; four years after the Metropolitan Police finally took her complaint seriously and seven years after her ordeal began. The conclusion came quietly, without ceremony. Last Friday, Jasmine sat in a small, sparsely populated room to hear that justice had finally come: the hearing found that Hunter, 60, had committed gross misconduct while in the Met he had groomed Jasmine, the panel found, after being called to her home for a welfare check, and while she was extremely vulnerable. Over the course of five years, he also sent her inappropriate text messages and tried to initiate a sexual relationship with her. Hunter, a former soldier who at one point worked in the same parliamentary protection unit as Wayne Couzens and David Carrick, failed to attend the hearing and denied all the allegations against him. He had previously been found guilty of gross misconduct for entering into a sexual relationship with a vulnerable woman known as X, whom he met just days before Jasmine, in 2017. The woman was suicidal and had tried to take her own life. The PC, who was married with two children, retired from the force before he could be dismissed following his first hearing in July 2019 but not before he engaged in a pattern of sexually predatory behaviour, barrister Thom Dyke, representing the Met, told the misconduct hearing on Thursday. Yet, had Jasmine not relentlessly campaigned to bring Hunter to justice, he would have been able to apply to another force to work as a police officer from 2025. Despite the serious nature of the offence, being found to have committed gross misconduct of this kind only currently bars officers from actively working for five years. Jasmine, who is using a pseudonym to protect her anonymity, is now subject to special protection, including a 24/7 tracker on me, she says. Initially, the Met refused to hold a hearing, claiming that Jasmines case was not in the public interest since Hunter had already left the force. Jasmine appealed and, in 2023, a scathing report from the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) found that investigators had violated policing guidance. Jasmines five-year battle to be heard reads like a playbook to make justice impossible for women victimised by the police, she says. Hunter was allowed to act with impunity because he targeted vulnerable women in crisis and knew they would make unreliable witnesses, unable to withstand the brutal complaints process. She supplied The Independent with a letter showing that, four months after her complaint was raised, police requested and obtained her medical records and contacted her GP citing concerns over a mental health crisis. Jasmine maintains she was not suffering from mental illness at the time. Hunter worked in the same parliamentary protection unit as Wayne Couzens, pictured here ( Supplied ) In the letter, sent by the Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS), police wrote that Jasmine was struggling to move her life forward rather than focusing on both the failures of the police and the alleged crimes against her. [Jasmines] recollection of the events or contact with police appears at times not to be an accurate reflection it is not known if this is an intentional misrepresentation or her perception of events/conversations. Meanwhile, Hunter was allowed to get a job as a black cab driver and began working in central London his record of gross misconduct, despite its sexual nature, does not appear on DBS checks. I thought he was my friend, Jasmine told me over the phone prior to the two-day hearing last week. She first encountered Hunter after he and another female officer knocked on her door in August 2017. Jasmine had reported being subjected to disturbing calls, text messages and other behaviours following a breakup, and was going through a particularly difficult time. Each time I reported something, they just closed the case, she said. She became frustrated and upset, which prompted Hunters visit. He talked a lot of sense, she said. And he calmed me down. Then, when he was leaving, he wrapped his arms around me and said, Youre so lovely. You know Im going to look after you. Hunter gave Jasmine his personal phone number and told her he was going to take her out for coffee, she told me. He said: Im now your point of contact. Over the next three months or so, he would message me constantly, explains Jasmine. He would phone and chat and say things to me like Dont believe any other police officers. Im the only one that you can trust all sorts of things like that. Jasmines case raises pertinent questions, not only about how predatory behaviour within the Met persists, but also about the way in which cases of misconduct are subsequently handled She said in her statement to police: He told me that my family and friends could not help me and that I should no longer see or contact them. He was taking care of me, showing empathy, support, and how to speak at an interview as a victim and witness. Hunter would go on to try to convince Jasmine to file false police reports and to isolate her from her friends and family. He told me, You cant trust them. You can only trust me. Now I see it very much as grooming behaviour, but at the time I didnt. He started sending me kissing emojis or an x at the end of texts I thought he was my friend, she repeats. The inappropriate relationship was brought to police attention in 2019, when an investigation into Hunters gross misconduct with his first victim, X, began. Hunter had entered into a sexual relationship with X just four weeks after responding to a call at her house, where she was at significant risk of suicide. In the judgment from his gross misconduct hearing, the other attending officer that night described Hunter as telling X: You have so much to live for, you are beautiful. One month later, in September 2017, Hunter sent X an image of his penis, and asked her to send a picture of herself, which she refused to do. When X found out that Hunter was married, though he claimed to be separated in October 2017, she tried to end their relationship which he was open about to colleagues, but denied they had met while he was on duty. Those lies were exposed to police the following month, when X made another attempt on her life and Hunter, along with another officer, was in attendance. He later admitted that he had met X a few months earlier while conducting a welfare check. Jasmine says her ordeal reads like a playbook to make justice impossible for women victimised by the police ( Getty ) At the conclusion of Jasmines hearing last Friday, identical texts that Hunter sent to both of his victims were read out; in Jasmines case, there were more than 70 pages of texts. It was when he made contact with Jasmine a second time, a year after his first attempt to engage her, that she made the decision to report him. At one point I didnt hear from him for months, maybe a year, she tells me. But then he got in touch again out of the blue. The conversation was much more sexualised much more Youre beautiful, were going to be good together. But the thing he hadnt banked on was [that] when he first started contacting me I was extremely vulnerable, both as a victim of crime and in my own personal circumstances. But by the second time, I was not. And I didnt hesitate to report him straight to them. Had he been a serving officer, he would have been sacked without notice, Jasmine told me shortly after Fridays hearing. Now I want to know why it has taken five long, distressing years to get this far. She says that she is a prime example of why many women cannot get the justice they deserve when they are harmed by police officers. Here is the playbook, she says in a letter she sent to The Independent on Friday. Take away their phone. Dont believe them, despite there being more than one victim. Say you think [they are] overreacting. Exhaust them. Wipe your hands of their experience again and again. Because what do I know? Im just a vulnerable woman. So many times I have thought I couldnt proceed with this constant battle. Jasmine says that she persisted with the help of Baroness Casey and the support of her loyal friends, but believes that many other women couldnt have done so. I often wonder how many more of us there are, she says. I met somebody recently who knew Hunter when he was serving, and he said to me that he was known for it. Serial rapist David Carrick was given 36 life sentences ( PA ) She asked why he didnt report the behaviour. The answer was simple Its not what we do. Commander Katie Lilburn, who leads the Mets DPS, said in a statement issued after the verdict: I want to be clear, it is unacceptable for any officer to abuse their position of trust and I would like to acknowledge and apologise for the distress this has caused. She added: The commissioner has been clear he wants timeliness in the misconduct system improved, and we are committed to doing all we can to ensure cases are concluded as swiftly and efficiently as possible. Hunter has now been dealt his hand and, finally, will no longer be able to apply to work in the police force. But Jasmines case raises pertinent questions, not only about how predatory behaviour within the Met persists, but also about the way in which cases of misconduct are subsequently handled. On Friday, Jasmines case was heard without fanfare in a small back room in Palestra House in Southwark, London. In the end, the judgment was almost as botched as the five-year lead-up: every time the chair began to read the findings, the sound cut out. A small handful of media reporters sat quietly at the back. They had applied to attend thanks to Jasmines vocal supporter, Jamie Klingler, the founder of campaign group Reclaim These Streets, who organised the now infamous vigil for Sarah Everard in 2020. The day before, despite Jasmines efforts and the advocacy of a barrister, the evidence she had given was not read out she has since condemned the process that meant that her words could not be heard. At an early point during the complaints process, Jasmine says, a police officer who was interviewing her made a comment that sticks with me to this day. They said that police officers who are sexual predators exist only in the mind of Daily Mail readers, she explains. Last week, she proved once more that this is very much not the case. *Name has been changed Rape Crisis offers support for those affected by rape and sexual abuse. You can call them on 0808 802 9999 in England and Wales, 0808 801 0302 in Scotland, and 0800 0246 991 in Northern Ireland, or visit their website at www.rapecrisis.org.uk. If you are in the US, you can call Rainn on 800-656-HOPE (4673) Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Industry regulator Ofwat has proposed 168m of fines for three of Englands biggest water companies for failing to manage their wastewater treatment works, including a 104m fine for Thames Water. The penalties result from severe mismanagement of sewage treatment works, including systemic failures in the use of storm overflows, causing extensive environmental damage and impacting customers, the watchdog said. Ofwats chief executive David Black said the watchdogs biggest ever investigation had uncovered a catalogue of failure and showed that the firms routinely released sewage into our rivers and seas, rather than ensuring that this only happens in exceptional circumstances as the law intends. All 11 water firms in England and Wales are being targeted by Ofwat ( Anthony Upton Media Assignments/PA ) The proposed penalties are subject to consultation but would see Thames Water fined 104m, Yorkshire Water fined 47m and Northumbrian Water fined 17m equating to 9 per cent, 7 per cent and 5 per cent of the companies relevant turnover. Ofwat is permitted to impose fines of up to 10 per cent. The firms will not be able to recover the money to pay for any proposed penalties from their customers, according to Ofwat, which said it would ensure that customers are not charged twice where additional maintenance is required. Speaking to Sky News, Mr Black accepted that Thames Water faces serious challenges but said it was not a relevant consideration for the watchdog that such a penalty could tip the struggling utility firm into bankruptcy. Welcoming the meaningful penalties, campaigner Charles Watson, chair of River Action, said Ofwat had been for so long toothless but was finally waking up to the scale of the publics outrage. Criticising water companies for paying out billions in shareholder dividends, Mr Watson warned that so long as this was permitted, pollution will continue to be a highly profitable activity with inadequate incentives for the water companies to fix their creaking infrastructure and stop filling our rivers with raw sewage. A Thames Water employee watches as a tanker pumps out excess sewage from the Lightlands Lane sewage pumping station in Berkshire ( PA ) Celebrating that this rogue industry [is] finally paying the price for years of pollution, Greenpeace UKs director of policy Doug Parr urged Ofwat to bring in a full ban on shareholder dividends and bonuses for these serial polluters and said ministers should recognise that water industry privatisation has failed. Surfers Against Sewage chief executive Giles Bristow said the fines are a win for campaigners but illustrate the sheer state of disrepair of our broken water industry, and vowed to make sure Ofwat keeps its pledge that firms will not be able to recover the money from customers. The proposed fines relate to the first three cases in Ofwats wider investigation, with the regulator promising to continue to work as quickly as possible on its investigations into the remaining eight of the 11 water firms in England and Wales. Mr Black said: The level of penalties we intend to impose signals both the severity of the failings and our determination to take action to ensure water companies do more to deliver cleaner rivers and seas. These companies need to move at pace to put things right and meet their obligations to protect customers and the environment. They also need to transform how they look after the environment and to focus on doing better in the future. Ofwat has proposed 168m of fines for three of Englands biggest water companies ( PA ) Looking to the future, we want to transform companies performance under our new price control that starts in April next year, so we reduce spills from sewage overflows by 44 per cent by 2030 compared to 2021 levels. Welcoming the fines, environment secretary Steve Reed said it was right that those responsible for the unacceptable destruction of our waterways should face the consequences. Vowing to fundamentally reform the water sector, Mr Reed said the new government had announced initial steps in its Water (Special Measures) Bill to cut sewage pollution, protect customers, and attract investment to upgrade crumbling infrastructure with further legislation in the pipeline. Ofwat said its investigation had found that more than two-thirds of Thames Waters wastewater treatment works with Flow to Full Treatment (FFT) permits had capacity and operational issues, while one in six of its storm overflows were found to be in breach of regulations. Yorkshire Waters wastewater treatment works were in better shape, with just 16 per cent of them having operational issues. But 45 per cent of its storm overflows were in breach. Three per cent of Northumbrian Waters wastewater works had issues, while 9 per cent of its storm overflows were in breach. A Yorkshire Water spokesperson said the firm was disappointed with the proposed fine and that it had cooperated fully with the investigation. Pointing to a 180m plan to reduce sewage discharges before April 2025, they added: We will be responding to the notice by 10th September. Nominations are open for The Independents first ever Climate 100 List, a roll call of leading lights committed to tackling the climate crisis. The list will be unveiled in September, during the United Nations Summit of the Future but we need your suggestions for individuals and groups around the world whose efforts deserve recognition. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A group of pro-Palestine protesters were subject to accusations of antisemitism after entering a cafe near a theatre showing a performance of Fiddler on the Roof while carrying Palestine flags. Footage widely shared on social media captured the angry encounter in which two groups argue over the Israel-Gaza conflict inside the cafe, which is a four-minute walk from the Regents Park Open Air Theatre, in London, on August 5. The nearby theatre was showing a performance of Fiddler on the Roof, a play about a Jewish man preserving his familys traditions in a village in imperial Russia at the turn of the 20th century. In one clip, a man carrying a Palestine flag accuses someone seemingly of Jewish heritage of Zionism, while in other clips someone off camera shouts embarrassment. More footage shared online captures some of the theatregoers shouting at the pro-Palestine group, claiming you are not welcome here and I dont like pigs standing before me. The row divided social media with some supporting the theatregoers who took exception to the pro-Palestine group, and others defending the protesters as having simply entered the cafe to purchase refreshments. The assistant manager of Regents Park Cafe was subsequently interviewed by a pro-Palestine activist who suggested the group were actually just customers and not demonstrating at the show. This view was supported by other members of the pro-Palestine group, who were also interviewed by the same activist, who publishes TikTok videos under the name MigrationFilms. A Twitter/X user, who identified themselves as Jewish, wrote: Presumed it was an Israeli theatre company but its not. If this is what it looks like, this needs stamping out right now we cannot be having this. A second Twitter/X user referenced the widespread anti-Muslim demonstrations taking place across the UK in the wake of last weeks Southport stabbings and said the incident should receive a similar level of condemnation. This is a performance of Fiddler on the Roof, they wrote alongside footage of the protesters. So, if youre busy condemning racist demonstrations, but not this, & you dont think they should be prosecuted, stop preening yourself. Youre happy with racism its only the target that you worry about. A spokesperson for Regents Park Open Air Theatre said: The videos that emerged on social media were exchanges that did not take place at Regents Park Open Air Theatre. Last nights performance went ahead as planned. The Metropolitan Police was approached for comment. This article was amended on 19 August 2024. It previously referred to a pro-Palestine demonstration outside the performance of Fiddler on the Roof, however it subsequently became clear that there was no protest at the Regents theatre venue. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Prince Harrys ex-girlfriend has paid a heartfelt tribute to her late sister Pandora Cooper-Key after she passed away following a 24-year on-and-off battle with cancer. The Duke of Sussex, 39, dated Cressida Bonas for two years between 2012 and 2014 after they were introduced by Princess Eugenie. According to reports, their eventual split was an amicable one so much so that Ms Bonas, often described as an it girl to her dismay was a guest Harrys 2018 wedding to Meghan Markle. Bonas, who is also an actress, lost her older half-sister Cooper-Key, 51, on 22 July after she revealed in March that she had been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. While she was told that chemotherapy would not work on tumour, Cooper-Key explained to Femail that she was having immunotherapy, a more revolutionary cancer treatment, that might work. Showcasing their close relationship over the years, Bonas, 35, shared a series of images of the sisters and heartfelt tribute to Cooper-Key, who has been praised for how she fought her decades-long battle with cancer. Ill look for you in the markets where we walked arm-in-arm. Amongst the ancient trees, Ill talk and ask them where you are. Ill find you in the expression of a Pekingese, in pots of honey, pretty hats and in the eyes of your two boys, she wrote. Ill hear you say things like, Im happy as a tick, and I think youre mad as a goose. Ill search for your humor, even on the darkest days. When courage is needed, Ill call for you, hoping youll come by. Ill seek you in the mountains you fearlessly climbed and skied. When the evening sun kisses the ocean, Im sure Ill see you there. I will find you in the colours of life and moments of mischief. Ill search for you in the stars and wherever there is dancing. I will turn the music up and dance more than ever before. Ill look for you in my dreams where youll say, Hi Smally, and tell me where youve been. Cooper-Key was praised by Sarcoma UK for raising awareness of this form of cancer, which she also battled alongside Pagets disease and nose and cheek tumours. Kerry Reeves-Kneip, Director of Communications, said: Pandora was an extraordinary individual whose impact on Sarcoma UK and the wider community cannot be overstated. She was, without a doubt, one of the most extraordinary and infectious spirits I have ever encountered, radiating sweetness and genuine care for others. Her fighting spirit in the face of a 24-year battle with various forms of cancer, including sarcoma, was nothing short of inspirational. I had the pleasure of working closely with Pandora, particularly during the organisation of a carol concert at Christ Church Cathedral in Oxford. This event, featuring notable personalities like Kate Winslet and Bear Grylls, raised over 130,000 for our cause. Pandoras energy, kindness, and dedication during this time were truly remarkable. Her openness about her journey helped raise crucial awareness about sarcoma and the challenges faced by patients. Pandoras legacy extends far beyond her fundraising efforts; she touched countless lives with her warmth and resilience. Pandora Cooper-Key and Cressida Bonas in 2016 ( Nick Harvey/Shutterstock ) As reported by The Times, Cooper-Keys lengthy cancer battle was caused by a condition known as Li-Fraumeni, which can increase the likelihood of the disease. The National Organisation for Rare Disorders states that this is a are hereditary condition that Cooper-Key was diagnosed with at the age of 26. She is survived by her two teenage sons. Cressida Bonas arriving at Prince Harry and Meghan Markles wedding. ( REUTERS ) Prince Harrys relationship with Ms Bonas was discussed in his bombshell 2023 memoir Spare, where he recounted their painfully awkward first kiss. I leaned in to give her a kiss, but my aim was off. I could take out a cactus from three miles away from a Hellfire missile but I couldnt quite find her lips, Harry wrote. She turned, I tried again on the return trip, and we managed something like a graze. Painfully awkward. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Queen Camilla was against King Charless decision to publicly disclose his ongoing health concerns earlier this year, according to royal biographer Rob Jobson, who has written a number of books about Charles and other members of the royal family. The monarch, 75, first announced that he was undergoing treatment for a benign prostate condition in January of this year. Then, in February, it was announced that he had been diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer, which had been discovered during the procedure. A statement from Buckingham Palace said at the time: No further details are being shared at this stage, except to confirm that His Majesty does not have prostate cancer. The King was subsequently forced to take a temporary step back from public-facing duties and it was reported that he would be undertaking a reduced schedule when he returned to work at the end of April. Mr Jobson, who last year published Our King: Charles III The Man and the Monarch Revealed, said: Queen Camilla had initially been against disclosing his condition, but the King overruled her as he felt it was a chance to take a lead and in doing so to encourage men experiencing similar symptoms to seek timely medical attention. There was a significant increase in searches related to enlarged prostate on the National Health Service website following the monarchs revelation. King Charles was delighted when his medical team gave him the all-clear to return to work ( AP ) The NHS England page on benign prostate enlargement had more than 26,000 visits in the 48 hours after the announcement, compared to a daily average of just 1,400. While Camillas reasons were not disclosed by Jobson, he claimed that Charles wanted to disclose his troubles to avoid the fake news which often circulated whenever the late Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip received medical attention. Jobson added of the decision: He was lauded for doing so, with commentators saying he had ushered in a new era of transparency in matters of health and the royal family. The kings health concerns marked the beginning of one of the most tumultuous years in modern history for the royal family. While the Princess of Wales initially revealed that she was undergoing planned abdominal surgery in January and intended to return to duty after Easter, she released a poignant video message in March announcing that she had also been diagnosed with an undisclosed type of cancer. The Princess of Wales with the royal family on the Palace balcony on her first official appearance since her cancer diagnosis ( PA ) Kate, 42, made a welcome return to public life in June at Trooping the Colour, the Kings official birthday parade, and appeared on the final day of this years Wimbledon to present the trophies. The royal family are currently on their summer holiday at Balmoral in Aberdeenshire and the Wales family are expected to join the King and Queen. The journey to Scotland will be the furthest the princess has travelled since being diagnosed with cancer. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} My kids are crying, wrote Tommy Robinson from a luxury five-star holiday resort after photographs emerged revealing he had been hiding out in Cyprus. We come (sic) here so I could spend some quality time with them. Now they are scared people are coming here to get them. Scenes from Robinsons hotel appear to match those from images of a luxury resort in Cyprus ( X/TripAdvisor ) The anti-Islam activist has been accused of stoking far-right riots across the UK from outside the country while holed up in the 400-a-night Mediterranean hotel. Tommy Robinsons hotel room matches that of a high-end resort ( Twitter/Trip Advisor ) Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is thought to have left Britain last week ahead of a scheduled hearing in a contempt of court case. A warrant has been issued for his arrest. The English Defence League founder claimed his family feared they were in danger after the location where he was hiding was revealed on Sunday. But despite his protestations, it appears Robinsons own social media activity may have provided clues to his whereabouts. Promotional photographs of the resort appear to show a waterslide and gym seen in the background of posts he shared with his followers last week. The decor of hotel room where he filmed an interview with far-right US conspiracy theorist Alex Jones also appears to match the shots. Follow live coverage of UK riots here During the conversation with Jones, Robinson asked viewers for donations and complained his location had been made public. Tommy Robinsons gym selfies helped may have helped locate him ( X/Trip Advisor ) Asked what happens now, he replied: Ill be in jail, Alex, thats what comes next. I think it will be the worst thing they can do. It will galvanise our support the people arent backing down. If people cant see that. Theyve tried to crush [disorder] but the protests have got bigger and more violent. Politicians have demanded the recall of Parliament in the face of continuing anti-immigrant unrest ( PA Wire ) He said he expects the number of people hitting the streets to double in size in the coming days adding: Theres a revolution brewing in the United Kingdom. Ive made video after video asking it to be peaceful, not violent. We are losing our country, we are losing our culture, we are losing our identity. Robinson has been publishing running commentary and videos documenting the riots, describing the disorder as a result of legitimate concerns and calling for mass deportations. Damage at the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham ( Dave Higgens/PA Wire ) Campaigners have accused him of playing an important role in inciting violence directed at ethnic minority groups in the UK over the past week in the wake of the Southport stabbings, which left three young children dead. Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, 17, who was born in Cardiff, is accused carrying out the attack, but false claims spread online that the suspect was an asylum seeker of Muslim faith who had arrived in the UK by small boat in 2023. Several of the demonstrations have targeted mosques. Hotels housing asylum seekers in Tamworth and Rotherham were also subject to violent disorder on Sunday. Sabby Dhalu, co-convenor of Stand up to Racism told The Independent: Tommy Robinson is deliberately stoking up racism and Islamophobia, whilst on the run. Its no accident that the riots took place days after Robinson mobilised 15,000 in Trafalgar Square last week. Fascists are emboldened. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Far-right thugs are planning to target the home of a vulnerable elderly woman after mistaking her house for an immigration lawyers office. The 88-year-olds family have begged potential rioters to stay away from their Nana in West Bridgford, Nottingham, after her address was discovered on a list of 60 immigration centres with a message suggesting they should be the target of demonstrations on Wednesday. Nottinghamshire Police warned those seeking to attend that the address being circulated on Telegram had no links whatsoever to any immigration businesses. Police officers with shields push back rioters who threw cans at them in Rotherham ( Getty Images ) The womans granddaughter posted on X: Friends in Nottingham, My dad is a freelance immigration advisor. His business address is registered at my Nana's house in West Bridgford where she lives by herself. The far-right fascist groups are now targeting immigration services across the UK. They have published my Nana's address as their Nottingham target on Wednesday night at 8pm. She added: My Nana is 88 years old, she suffered a collapsed lung earlier this year and has lost a lot of her mobility. I have no words to describe how it feels watching the hate unfold every day back home, let alone worrying about the safety of my family. Thank you to the beautiful, kind strangers that have found my dad's number to warn him of the attack. If you live nearby, PLEASE AVOID THE AREA. Look after yourselves and look after people of colour who should not be made to feel scared, vulnerable and outcast by these horrific people. Violence erupted across England and in Northern Ireland ( PA Wire ) A Nottinghamshire Police spokesman said: We are aware of a potential protest being organised in Nottingham on Wednesday evening. The location has no links to the business advertised on the internet. Officers have visited the address and it is home to an elderly person with vulnerabilities. It has no links whatsoever to any immigration business. We would strongly advise that those wishing to attend any protest in this location refrain from doing so as this is an elderly persons home address. Thank you. Police are bracing for a possible eighth night of disorder after rioting has spread across the country in the last week. Officers are anticipating a busy day on Wednesday as they monitor reports of at least 30 possible gatherings. Concerns for the safety of immigration law specialists were sparked after a list of solicitors firms and advice agencies was shared in chat groups as targets for gatherings in the coming days. One of the locations listed said they had accepted extra police support with thousands expected to take to the streets. Approximately 100 charges have been laid relating to the riots, director of public prosecutions Stephen Parkinson said on Tuesday, with more than 400 people arrested. There were 46 charges on Monday and 18 overnight into Tuesday, it is understood. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Asylum seekers who were inside a Rotherham hotel when it was attacked by far-right rioters are frightened but glad to be alive, an activist who attempted to guard the entrance said. Phil Turner, from Stand up to Racism Rotherham, helped organise a counter-demonstration of around 150 people at the Holiday Inn Express on Sunday in support of the refugees who were trapped inside. The violence in the South Yorkshire town took place amid widespread rioting across the UK in recent days, in the wake of last weeks stabbings in Southport. Anti-racism campaigners, who were surrounding the entrance to the hotel, had to retreat under two hours into the demonstration when it became clear they were significantly outnumbered by far-right rioters. Mr Turner, 72, knew two of the asylum seekers from previous demonstrations of support at the hotel near Sheffield, which has been housing migrants for three years. A chair is thrown at police officers during an anti-immigration demonstration outside the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham, South Yorkshire ( PA ) Referring to one of the asylum seekers who he knows well, Mr Turner said: Ive had a message through another friend to say that he was very pleased to see us there, but that it was a terrifying experience. Hes just glad to be alive really. Hes got injuries from before and he has to walk aided by sticks. When the fire was set [to the hotel], he had to put a plastic bag around his face because he couldnt breathe because of the fumes. It was a terrifying experience for all of them. Speaking about his experience trying to defend the hotel from rioters, Mr Turner added: We held the line for over an hour. It was quite clear that there were more and more of the rioters arriving. We werent going to get any bigger - we were 150-strong. It looked like we were going to be attacked from the side and the front. He estimated more than 1,000 far-right rioters turned up to attack the hotel. A small group of them eventually succeeded in getting inside the hotel and ran through the corridors shouting at asylum seekers, according to witnesses. After discussing things with the police we had to make an orderly retreat. We had to make that decision because it was pretty frightening and we had people who were elderly. We werent street fighters and we had to keep people safe, Mr Turner explained. Mr Turner said the experience was pretty frightening for both asylum seekers and counter-protesters ( PA ) Describing the retreat, he said: It wasnt easy but we managed to get away. Someone got hit by a full can of beer on the head, but it was nothing more than a glancing blow. If wed stayed it could have been more serious. Its pretty frightening to have that coming towards you. Somebody yesterday could have been killed, and that may happen if things continue, he warned. Mr Turner, who has been an anti-racism activist for many decades, said: I think this is unprecedented in this country - to see such a wide-ranging far-right movement. I organised against the National Front in the seventies and we need to build a bigger movement now to demonstrate unity against those who will divide us. His comments have been echoed by anti-fascist charity Hope not Hate, which has labelled the riots across the country possibly the most widespread outbreak of far-right violence in the post-war period. Southport, Hartlepool, Rotherham, Sunderland, Hull, Stoke, Liverpool, Middlesbrough and Tamworth have all seen rioting and arson in recent days. Almost 400 arrests have been made over the past week following the unrest. Police chiefs said they were working round the clock to identify those involved and continue to apprehend those responsible. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A Muslim MP has hit out at the sneering contempt of Good Morning Britain (GMB) broadcaster Ed Balls after a fiery interview about far-right violence sweeping the UK. MP for Coventry South, Zarah Sultana, clashed with the former politician as she tried to explain why she thought it was important to call the riots Islamophobic. Writing on X, she said: The sneering contempt of journalists will never stop me from calling out racism and Islamophobic hate. Zarah Sultana has hit out at the sneering contempt of Ed Balls after a fiery exchange on GMB ( Peter Nicholls/Getty Image ) Mr Balls repeatedly interrupted her while also accusing her of failing to answer his questions, as he put it to her that the government had denounced the violence as racist. In awkward scenes, Kate Garraway stepped in to seemingly defend Mr Balls, telling a frustrated Ms Sultana: We have to ask you questions as well, to which she replied: Absolutely. As Ms Garraway proceeded to ask Ms Sultana a question, Mr Balls interjected: And if you want to, you can answer them its your call. Ms Sultana replied: Im going to wait for Kate to finish her question if thats alright, following which a clearly rattled Mr Balls, staring at Ms Sultana, hit back: If you want to answer the questions, you can but you dont have to. Mr Balls repeatedly interrupted Ms Sultana while also accusing her of failing to answer his questions ( ITV ) Ms Sultana remained silent as Ms Garraway asked: Why is it important for you to use that specific word Islamophobic? Its been called racist, its been called thuggery. Here, Mr Balls interrupted again, stating: They definitely said racist over the weekend. However, when Mr Balls said that he is unsure whether prime minister Keir Starmer and home secretary Yvette Cooper - whom he is married to - have used the word Islamophobia, Ms Sultana replied: They havent. Ms Sultana attempted to give her answer to Ms Garraways question, explaining how mosques were targeted over the weekend and here, Mr Balls interrupted once more, stating: But Keir Starmer has condemned that, to which Ms Sultana said: Im just finishing the question if thats okay. When Ms Sultana went on to say there is a correlation between language used by politicians in the media - including Mr Balls - to phrases used by rioters, Mr Balls accused Sultana of attacking him. Well, youve moved from attacking Andrew to attacking me, he said, to which the camera cut to broadcaster Andrew Pierce, who could be seen chuckling. The interview attracted criticism online, with Narinder Kaur, who regularly appears on GMB debates, adding: This is unacceptable and deeply uncomfortable viewing. An entire white panel questioning a brown woman like a suspect. Ed Balls and Kate have left their homes this morning with no fear. The Independent has contacted ITV for comment. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Unpaid council tax debt has rocketed to 6bn as households reel from the pandemic and the cost of living crisis, according to a new report. Arrears have nearly doubled since before the Covid crisis when they totalled around 3.6bn. The figures are contained in a new report published days after the chancellor, Rachel Reeves, said she had identified a 22bn black hole in the nations finances since entering government and that she faced difficult decisions ahead. The report found 1.3 million households are struggling to pay their bills ( PA Archive ) She has warned taxes will have to rise in October to plug the gap, leading to fears Labour could raise money by increasing levies such as fuel duty or changing council tax. Matthew Greenwood, head of debt at the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), which compiled the report, said the rise in council tax arrears was yet more evidence that in many cases, the process of collection is failing local authorities and taxpayers alike. Their research shows the majority of non-payers are unable to, he said, and the often harsh repayment methods used by many local authorities are making repayment rates worse, not better. A more proportionate collection system would drive up the amount of money brought in by councils in the long-term, he added. Arrears have ballooned since Covid ( PA Wire ) The report found 1.3 million households are struggling to pay their bills, many of them families on the lowest incomes. The CSJ warns of a growing divide between the poorest 10 per cent of households and the rest of the country. While most can cope with local taxes, some are in such desperate need that they have little money left after they pay for housing, food and energy. The families likely to face enforcement action can have as little as 150 a month to spend, the report found. Among the harsh enforcement measures they face are the threat of imprisonment. The CSJ warned that the average amount of council tax owed by those approaching debt advice charities has more than doubled in the past 10 years, from 756 in 2013 to 1,726 in 2023. The organisation called for a clearer distinction to be made between those who cannot pay and those who refuse to. Those facing genuine hardship should be helped and offered tailored repayment terms and advice on how to get help, it said. This could result in more money for the council by reducing the need for bailiffs. These households should also come under the oversight of the Enforcement Conduct Board a voluntary oversight body set up by the debt advice industry in 2021. The report calls for a relaxation of the rule that requires full payment of a years council tax after one missed bill. It adds: Debt collection is an important function of government, but where households are clearly vulnerable, they should be treated sensitively to enable them repay. But the structure of our collections system incentivises against this by providing opportunities for local authorities to quickly advance to enforcement [action by bailiffs]. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has been approached for comment. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Elon Musk has launched another Twitter tirade about the UKs handling of crime after he was accused of being deeply irresponsible by a government minister. Posting on his social media platform on Tuesday afternoon, he repeatedly implied that communities are treated differently under the law under so-called two-tier policing. In one of his posts, Musk shared a video from US right-wing influencer, Andy Ngo, showing a group of men wearing balaclavas, with some waving Palestinian flags. The caption claimed armed Muslim patrol members surrounded and attacked a pub after marching around the area looking for white right-wingers to attack. No 10 criticised X owner Elon Musk for saying civil war is inevitable in response to a post on Sunday sharing footage of the violence ( PA ) Reposting the clip, the owner of X asked: Why arent all communities protected in Britain? He later replied to the video, which now has more than 10 million views, with the hashtag, #TwoTierKeir. Downing Street on Monday rejected allegations of two-tier policing in the UK, with a spokesperson saying the government does not recognise that characterisation. In another post, Mr Musk shared an infographic suggesting that white men serve longer sentences for less serious crimes. The graphic, which pictured three different men, claimed that one served 15 weeks in jail for posting a racist comment on Facebook, while wrongly claiming another did 180 hours of community service and no jail time for the rape of a 12 year old girl. Instead he was convicted of three counts of sexual assault and assaulting a child under 13 by penetration and given a two-year prison sentence, suspended for two years. Sharing the post, which now has more than 11 million views after it was posted by Hercules actor Kevin Sorbo, Musk asked: What the hell is going on?. The tech billionaire also shared unverified footage of police officers arresting someone for allegedly making offensive or obscene comments on social media, saying: Arrested for making comments on Facebook! Is this Britain or the Soviet Union? Does seem one-sided Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 5, 2024 The billionaire tech boss also responded to a social media post from the prime minister, questioning the governments decision to provide extra protection for mosques. He asked: Shouldnt you be concerned about attacks on all communities? Musks Twitter spree comes after he posted on Monday, civil war is inevitable. Referring to those comments, justice minister Heidi Alexander told LBC Radio Mr Musks remarks were totally unjustifiable. We have got police officers being seriously injured on our streets, she said. People are looting buildings. Theyre setting buildings alight, and for someone who has a big platform, a large following, to be exercising that power in such an irresponsible way, I think is actually pretty unconscionable. I think everyone at the moment should be calling for calm. We have to find a way to tackle this disorder that were seeing on our streets and in our communities. We will have, and continue to have, a robust police response. There will be swift and effective justice, but all individuals who have a platform should be behaving responsibly. Violence has erupted across England and in Northern Ireland after false information about a murder suspect was spread on Twitter ( PA Wire ) Former Conservative cabinet minister Rory Stewart replied to Mr Musk on X, saying: Seriously? Since when have you claimed to understand British communities or British politics? Exactly how many days have you spent with these communities? Does it ever occur to you that this might perhaps be the wrong time to sound off about a subject you know nothing about? Lib Dem MP Tim Farron said there is no excuse for Mr Musks remarks, adding: Im white and a Christian. No one is chucking bricks at my church or telling me to go back to where I come from. Im concerned about attacks on the communities that are actually being attacked. A Downing Street spokesperson said there is no justification for the original comment that civil war is inevitable, adding: Were talking about a minority of thugs that do not speak for Britain. As prime minister, Rishi Sunak rolled out the red carpet for Musk, hosting him as one of the star guests at the UKs AI Safety Summit last year. Mr Sunak conducted a 50-minute interview with the billionaire which saw the pair discuss how London is a leading hub for the AI industry and how best to regulate the technology in the future. The row comes amid growing claims that social media is fuelling the violent disorder seen across UK cities over the last week. It threatens to derail government efforts to get social media companies to play a more active role in removing harmful content from their platforms. Hundreds of people have been arrested after riots linked to the far right rocked major cities including Manchester, Liverpool and Hull, with violent mobs setting fire to hotels housing refugees and clashing with the police. Science and technology secretary Peter Kyle met with the bosses of X, Tiktok, Meta and Google on Monday evening as part of an attempt to make clear their responsibility to continue to work with us to stop the spread of hateful misinformation and incitement. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Ministers will back social media firms if users who spread misinformation have nowhere to hide, the Technology Secretary has said. Peter Kyle confirmed in a statement that he had met representatives from social media giants on Monday amid fears that posts to online forums are fuelling violent disorder. His meetings followed several days of clashes between anti-immigration demonstrators, police and counter-protesters, during which buildings have been damaged including Southport Islamic Society Mosque, Spellow Lane Library Hub in Liverpool, a Citizens Advice office and next-door police station in Sunderland, and a Holiday Inn Express in Tamworth, near Birmingham. I expect platforms to ensure that those seeking to spread hate online are not being facilitated and have nowhere to hide Peter Kyle Social media has come under scrutiny from politicians and journalists, and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper told BBC Radio 4s Today programme on Monday: You cant just have the armchair thuggery or the people being able to incite and organise violence and also not face consequences for this. Elon Musk, boss of X, formerly Twitter, has faced criticism from Downing Street after the billionaire posted civil war is inevitable to the platform on Sunday. Mr Kyle said in a statement: I have been clear it is unacceptable that people are using social media to cause damage, distress and destruction in our communities. The Cabinet minister confirmed he had met representatives from TikTok, Facebooks parent company Meta, Google and X to make clear their responsibility to continue to work with us to stop the spread of hateful misinformation and incitement. The statement continued: There is a significant amount of content circulating that platforms need to be dealing with at pace. Different companies take different approaches and I expect platforms to ensure that those seeking to spread hate online are not being facilitated and have nowhere to hide. Where they have acted, they have my full backing and the support of teams across Government, who have been working round the clock to do this. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmers official spokesman was asked about Mr Musks post to X. Theres no justification for comments like that, the spokesman replied. Were talking about a minority of thugs who dont speak for Britain. Government officials are also working to crack down on misinformation and activity from automated bots, he added. Clearly we have seen bot activity online, much of which may well be amplified with the involvement of state actors amplifying some of the disinformation and misinformation that weve seen. And that is something that the National Crime Agency and Department for Science, Innovation and Technology are looking at in relation to what weve seen online. I obviously cant get into more detail than that, but it is clearly something that is being looked at. The official declined to say which states may be involved, but added that it is clearly something that is being looked at. After chairing a Cobra emergency meeting on Monday morning, the Prime Minister said: The criminal law applies online as well as offline. Journalists have examined social medias role in violent disorder over recent weeks, which has been framed by Tommy Robinson, the former English Defence League leader whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, as a protest against the murder of three children in Southport, Merseyside. The Times published an in-depth look at fake claims that the murder accused was a man named Ali Al-Shakati who came to the UK by boat last year. It later emerged that Axel Rudakubana, a 17-year-old from Lancashire who was born in Cardiff, had been charged with the murders. BBC Verify established a clear pattern of influencers driving a message for people to gather for protests, but there is no single organising force at work, while Sky News alleged far-right groups began reposting false claims about the suspect being a Muslim immigrant on the messaging app Telegram, which made it on to X and were amplified by influencers like Andrew Tate, who has more than nine million followers. Skys reporters added that posters calling for a protest to take place in Southport on Tuesday July 30 began circulating widely, including on TikTok. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The government has announced 100m to improve HMP Wandsworth after a damning inspection report found high rates of self-harm, dangerous levels of violence and nearly 50 per cent of prisoners taking drugs. The report by HM Inspectorate of Prisons (HMIP) revealed that crumbling infrastructure, inadequate security measures and consistent staffing pressures had contributed to the prisons failings. Justice secretary Shabana Mahmood warned that state of the prison shows the reality of a prison system in crisis. The report comes just one month after the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) announced that thousands of prisoners on standard determinate sentences would serve 40 per cent of their sentence in jail, instead of 50 per cent, under new measures aimed at tackling overcrowding. Wandsworth was found to have high rates of self harm and violence, with almost half the inmates taking drugs ( PA ) In addition to redirecting 100 million towards HMP Wandsworth from across the prison service over the next five years, the MoJ also announced extra measures to bolster the prisons security and safety. These include the deployment of specialist security and drug staff who will conduct regular drug searches. Prison staff will be offered advanced violence reduction training sessions, while prisoners will be given improved access to rehabilitative services, such as education and employment workshops. Ms Mahmood said: This is the reality of a prison system in crisis. Cells are overcrowded, infrastructure is crumbling and our hard-working prison staff are at risk of violence and harm. Our staff deserve better and we are taking immediate action at HMP Wandsworth to do what is necessary to protect the public, lock up dangerous offenders and make prisons safe for the brave staff who work there. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: The government is immediately addressing the inspectorates concerns by deploying extra specialist staff to help turn the jail around and redirecting 100m from across the Prison Service that will be spent over five years to deliver urgent improvements. This includes cell windows being repaired, shower refurbishments and investment in fire safety measures. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood spoke of overcrowded cells, crumbling infrastructure and staff at risk of violence ( PA ) The HMIP report into HMP Wandsworth found high levels of overcrowding, self-harm and seven suicides over the last 12 months. It found increased rates of violence, including both serious assaults and uses of force. Almost 70 per cent of inmates said they felt unsafe. Inspectors invoked an urgent notification, giving the justice secretary 28 days to respond with an action plan for improvement. The report comes just less than a year after inmate Daniel Khalife allegedly escaped from Wandsworth. The 22-year-old allegedly broke out of the prison in September after strapping himself to the underside of a food delivery lorry. He will face trial in October. In July, a prison officer at Wandsworth pleaded guilty to misconduct after having sex with an inmate in a cell. Linda De Sousa Abreu, 30, of Fulham, southwest London, was charged after a video of the activity was shared online. Andrea Coomber KC, chief executive of the Howard League for Penal Reform, said the report highlights a shocking failure of leadership. She said: The prisons watchdog was established more than four decades ago, and it publishes findings from dozens of inspections every year. In all that time, it is hard to remember a report as scathing, emphatic, and utterly devastating as todays appraisal of the chaos in Wandsworth. The root cause is the fact that Wandsworth is one of the most overcrowded jails in the country with room for fewer than 1,000 men, while being asked to hold more than 1,500. But this report also lifts the lid on a shocking failure of leadership and culture. It underlines the need for a radical overhaul and work towards a more humane and effective response to crime. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Keir Starmer is facing mounting calls to recall Parliament as riots continue to spread across the country. Labour MP and mother of the House, Diane Abbott, said the decision had been made in the past for major national issues. And where you have violence nationwide, violence as serious as this, violence which shows no sign of abating. I call that a serious national issue, she said. A mob attacked a Holiday Inn Express housing asylum seekers in Rotherham on Sunday (Danny Lawson/PA) ( PA Wire ) MPs from across the political spectrum have demanded Parliament is reopened as the government struggles to contain the disorder. Police were injured during "sustained violence" in Plymouth on Monday night, while similar trouble on the streets of Darlington saw officers pelted with bricks. There was also unrest on the streets of Belfast. The Northern Ireland Assembly is being recalled and will sit later this week. Thousands of specialist police officers have been placed in a new standing Army ready to deal with the rioting. Keir Starmer has announced. Courts could also begin sitting through the night to process the accused, a minister has suggested. Former home secretary Dame Priti Patel is among the MPs who have called for Parliaments recall, as she warned of extraordinary criminality. As well as Diane Abbott, Labour MPs like Dawn Butler has also said the Commons should sit, a view echoed by Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. Ms Abbott hit out, tweeting: The racist Islamophobic violence continues nationwide with no signs of abating. And still the government sees no reason to recall Parliament. Unrest is spreading across Britain ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) The violence has hit towns and cities around the UK since misinformation was used to inflame tensions following the murder of three girls in Southport. False claims the alleged attacker was on a watchlist and Muslim were used to stir up far-right mobs. The Commons is currently not sitting because of the month-long summer recess. MPs are not scheduled to return until September 2. However, the government can ask the Speaker to recall the House to deal with events of major national importance. Parliament was last recalled in the summer of 2021, during the chaotic UK evacuation from Afghanistan. When he was prime minister David Cameron also ordered MPs to return in 2011 in response to the London riots, which also spread across the country. On Monday, the home secretary Yvette Cooper said there were no plans to ask for the recall of MPs. She told LBC radio: Thats not what were doing right now. What were doing right now is keeping in close contact with MPs. Shadow home secretary and Tory leadership candidate James Cleverly also rejected calls to recall Parliament, telling BBC Radio 4s Today Programme: I dont think there is anything that parliament needs to sign off. If the flow of information is fast enough that will give the reassurance that Parliament wants. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} MPs have been warned to take safety precautions as riots continue to spread across the country. Members of parliament have been urged to contact police and consider working from home instead of their constituency offices. Those whose offices are prominent and easily identifiable have also been advised to look at their security protocols. And MPs near where 30 protests are planned on Wednesday have also been made aware of the situation. A mob attacked a Holiday Inn Express housing asylum seekers in Rotherham on Sunday (Danny Lawson/PA) ( PA Wire ) The warning comes in a letter to MPs by the Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle. Almost 400 people have now been arrested over the mob violence amid appalling scenes. On Monday night police were injured during "sustained violence" in Plymouth, while similar trouble on the streets of Darlington saw officers pelted with bricks. There was also unrest on the streets of Belfast. Thousands of specialist police officers have been placed in a new standing Army ready to deal with the rioting. Keir Starmer has announced. Courts could also begin sitting through the night to process the accused, a minister has suggested. There are fears of at least 30 possible protests on Wednesday according to information circulating online. Speaker Hoyle has warned MPs to exercise caution ( BBC ) In the letter Speaker Hoyle told MPs: We note the spontaneity and unpredictable nature of the disorder and would therefore encourage Members and their offices to exercise caution. Publicly available information suggests that a range of locations associated with immigration and asylum assistance are due to be subject to demonstrations on Wednesday 7 August at 8pm. The Parliamentary Security Department (PSD) have reached out to Members who have offices in close proximity to these planned demonstrations, to make them aware. Other MPs particularly those with prominent and easily identifiable office locations may wish to consider their office security protocols he writes. These can include talking to their local police force to gain an up to date understanding of the risks and policing plans in your area; considering home working; and ensuring that any sensitive information is stored safely. He adds: In the event of an emergency, dont hesitate to call 999. A House of Commons spokesperson said: The ability for Members and their staff to perform their Parliamentary duties safely, both on and off the estate, is fundamental to our democracy. Abuse and intimidation is completely unacceptable. We do not comment on individual MPs security arrangements or advice because we would not wish to compromise the safety of MPs, Parliamentary staff or members of the public, but these are kept under continuous review. The recent riots have prompted demands that parliament be recalled, and, rather more radically, that the army be called in to restore law and order on the streets. Nigel Farage has led the calls to at least debate getting the military involved. In a statement, the leader of Reform UK argued: That so many police officers have been injured trying to keep the peace is shocking, and we should not discount the use of the army if the situation were to deteriorate further. Farage claims that this would quell the riots. Would bringing the army in work? Well, it seems likely that the average far-right extremist wearing a balaclava and an England flag would think twice about hurling a rock or a firework at a line of fully armed infantry, and a few warning shots in the air would disperse even the most belligerent of the patriots. Indeed, being confronted with tooled-up representatives of the very armed forces the patriots revere might confuse them so much that they wouldnt know whose side they were supposed to be on, though this hasnt previously mattered. They certainly couldnt attack the troops for two-tier soldiering. Does Farage want martial law to be declared? Not before he becomes prime minister and uses such powers to his own ends. Even in wartime, the UK hasnt been subjected to martial law, which doesnt have a basis in any existing statute law, royal prerogative or other constitutional doctrine. But the government could declare a state of emergency, and the armed forces could at any time act in support of the civilian powers. In 2021, the Ministry of Defence and the chiefs of the defence staff stated that they can support the civil authorities to deal with events such as natural hazards, major incidents or malicious attacks in the UK and the crown dependencies. So this includes such activities as, for example, driving fire engines during strikes in 1977 and 2002-3, helping with the aftermath of flooding, and assisting with the vaccine rollout during the pandemic. Around 80 fuel tankers and army drivers were put on standby to transport fuel for essential services such as ambulances in the fuel protests in 2000. It has been a couple of hundred years since British forces were last required to read the riot act (literally) and quell civilian riots, usually with bloodshed and abiding notoriety. Such instances included the anti-Catholic Gordon riots of 1780 and the massacre of political protesters at St Georges Fields, south London, in 1768, and again at Peterloo in Manchester in 1819. But that was before Britain developed a formal police force. Anyway, the Riot Act of 1714 was repealed in 1973. Probably just as well. Would there be any downsides? Lots. Most importantly, this is not what the British army is for, and its not something its soldiers would be likely to wish to do though they are always, in the final analysis, at the disposal of a democratically elected government. They were, it is true, deployed in support of the civil authorities in Northern Ireland for decades during the Troubles, but that was a form of civil war, and it was arguably more like their traditional and historical deployment during the time of the British empire, such as in Cyprus and Kenya. More to the point, the army doesnt have the skills to deal with low-level, though serious, civil disturbances such as these, and the lethal use of weaponry would be a grave matter indeed soldiers should not be put in the position of having to fire on unarmed British civilians. It would only take one panicked squaddie to inflict a tragedy on a nation. Even a limited deployment would inevitably politicise the army and militarise the riots, escalating tensions in unpredictable ways. Why is Farage so keen on the idea? We dont know, apart from the possibility of immediate success in quelling the riots. Perhaps he is overexcited, attracted to the danger and thrill of a military engagement, or sees it as an opportunity to exploit instability in order to vindicate his past warnings and boost his own influence. Or he might not have thought it through. Will it happen? No. Get Nadine White's Race Report newsletter for a fresh perspective on the week's news Get our free newsletter from The Independent's Race Correspondent Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the The Race Report email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A prominent anti-racist Muslim group are urging the government to ramp up its commitment to gender-based Islamophobia, The Independent can reveal. Muslim communities, including women, are fearing for their lives amid widespread race riots around Britain across the past week which have left dozens of people injured and hundreds arrested. Shaista Aziz, Amna Abdullatif and Huda Jawad, who are known as The Three Hijabis due to their heritage and Islamic religious dress, have been contacted by Muslim women across the country with worries and reports of their hijabs being pulled off in the street. Yet, there is no specific government strategy in place to safeguard Muslim women, despite the governments stated mission to protect women and girls. Muslim women being afraid to travel into their town and city centres making them no-go areas for them, is gendered Islamophobia, a statement, first seen by The Independent, from The Three Hijabis says. Muslim women have told us that they have changed their daily routine taking care not to be outside of their homes due to fear of being attacked by far-right mobs. Muslim women shared their concerns about the safety and wellbeing of their children, brothers, husbands and family members, particularly when attending mosque. Mosques have been the target of coordinated far-right Islamophobic attacks. The statement continued: We call for gendered Islamophobia to be acknowledged as a specific form of violence against women and girls at the highest levels of government. The Three Hijabis are also calling on specialist services to advocate for the safety of Muslim women and girls, recognising that it is part of their work to stand up for all women and communities. Violence erupted across England and in Northern Ireland ( PA ) Muslim women have also expressed concerns over rumours circulating of them being targets of far-right violence including acid attacks. While acid attack rumours are currently unsubstantiated, having the intended impact of sending fear throughout British Muslim communities, pushing Muslim women and girls back in their homes, the aim of misogyny and gendered Islamophobia, The Three Hijabis explained. Speaking with The Independent, Ms Aziz, Ms Abdullatif and Ms Jawad have expressed fear for their own safety and that of loved ones due to the race riots. Ms Jawad, who fled Iraq and came to England as a two-year-old refugee, feels she may well be safer in the warzone that she once left. This is triggering because the far right is targeting refugees, as well as Muslims. It feels like many different parts of me are attacked all at the same time, she said. A mob attacked a Holiday Inn Express housing asylum seekers in Rotherham on Sunday ( PA ) I came to this country because I thought there is rule of law and there were values around respecting humanity and human rights. But its very clear that I am probably safer in a despotic regime in the Middle East than here. During a press conference last week, prime minister Sir Keir Starmer branded the riots as far-right thuggery but stopped short of describing rioters as racist or Islamophobic. Instead, he mentioned racist rhetoric and acknowledged the targeting of Muslim communities, however campaigners including The Three Hijabis dont think Sir Starmer went far enough. I am surprised at the naming of it as racism, Ms Jawad said. Im surprised at the lack of kind of preparation by the government and why are we always thinking that the only answer is the police, when the police are actually part of the problem? They are the Islamophobes, they are the misogynists and they are the racists. Restaurant owner Luqman Khan clears debris from the street in front of his restaurant in Middlesbrough ( AFP/Getty ) I feel extremely devastated but Im not surprised at all that this is happening, Ms Aziz said. This is the inevitable outcome of decades of dehumanising Muslims, refugees, migrants and Black people. There has been more and more mainstreaming of Islamophobia and the genocide unfolding in Gaza is part of the equation here as well. She added: I feel very emotional because Im going around telling women in my family to be careful, and men in my family and my friends. Im telling them not to go out, to be careful. Im terrified; Im not that type of person and I dont want to be that person, but there is a real change in the air. Ms Abdullatif, a mother of two, echoed this and said shes asked her daughters to avoid leaving the house. I dont think Ive ever felt this anxious about going out, she said. In previous iterations, where weve had spikes in Islamophobic abuse, I would just show up because we shouldnt be scared to come out in our communities and in the cities where we live. But this feels much more scarier than anything Ive experienced before in the UK. Through lobbying the government and pointing to how local communities around Britain are rallying against the far right, in support of one another, The Three Hijabis feel compelled to resist hateful forces and are heartened by people power. Ms Aziz said: Were moved by how the communities are coming together and how theyre supporting each other; the kindness, the love, the compassion. Not just Muslims towards Muslims; theres an understanding people have that this is about shared humanity. Part of this conversation needs to shine the light on our resistance as Muslim women, Ms Jawad said. Theres a victim narrative (around Muslim women) that were woe is us, come and save us, and thats been a part of the very violence that has been perpetrated against us. A Labour MP has said the government should define Islamophobia to combat the racism and vitriol we are seeing by a minority of far-right activists on Britains streets. The government has been approached for a response. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Billionaire social media platform owner Elon Musk has launched a tirade against Sir Keir Starmer amid fears that Britain is on the cusp of descending further into civil unrest. It came as a standing army of 6,000 police officers was preparing for a new wave of violence at 39 demonstrations planned around the UK. There was fury that Mr Musk used far-right messages and images to attack Sir Keir personally as he appeared to fan the flames of discontent. But when questioned on the X owners comments, he repeatedly refused to even acknowledge Mr Musk by name. The apparently unprovoked attack on Starmer and the UK government from across the Atlantic came as: Two emergency meetings were called by Sir Keir, first with his cabinet and then the emergency committee Cobra to prepare for more violence Fears offices of legal firms that help asylum seekers and asylum centres will be targeted in 39 protests planned for Wednesday A warning the violence is set to spread to new parts of the country, with concerns flagged up by Scottish secretary Ian Murray Residents and businesses board up homes and offices in target areas 1,000 writers, actors and musicians call for an end to racism, condemning violence The address of an 88-year-old grandmother was wrongly included on a far-right target list Security advice has been handed out to MPs over fears they could be targeted Elon Musk has been accused of being an attention seeker by a social media expert following his response to the disorder across the UK ( PA Archive ) With Britain braced for further violence, there were also calls for a travel ban to be imposed on Mr Musk over fears that his tirade of tweets being posted on his own social media website could fan the flames of riots. Mr Musk, who has 193 million followers on X and is donating millions to Donald Trumps re-election campaign, suggested on Monday that civil war is inevitable in the UK comments which were criticised by Downing Street. But this was as nothing to the plethora of tweets he put out on Tuesday as he also claimed that his site X is the UKs biggest source of news at a time when his own messages appeared to repeat fake claims. It was quite a turnaround from a man for whom former prime minister Rishi Sunak rolled out the red carpet last November ahead of an artificial intelligence conference. Most damaging was his tweet with the hashtag #twotierkeir a far-right claim which has been used to justify the riots, suggesting police are going soft on left-wing and Islamic protesters but hard on far-right white working-class protesters. He appeared to repeat conspiracy theories which critics claim are also being pushed by another friend of Mr Trump, Nigel Farage. Several people have already been charged in connection with unrest in Middlesbrough and elsewhere ( PA Wire ) The allegation is police are afraid of being branded racist so will not tackle violent Muslim demonstrators, including those making antisemitic chants. Ironically, the two-tier claim from Mr Musk came just as a lawyer for a Muslim man who was kicked in the head at Manchester airport alleged the police were racist. Mr Musk also posted an image of the lead character from the adult cartoon Family Guy in an electric chair with the message: In 2030 for making a Facebook comment that the UK government didnt like. Other posts included an image comparing the treatment of three alleged rapists which suggested the Muslim man had avoided jail, but it turned out that the man identified was not guilty of the crime claimed. Another tweet from Mr Musk showed footage of an armed Muslim gang of men in Birmingham with the message: Why arent all communities protected in Britain? @Keir_Starmer. Mr Sunak has made no comment about the man he lauded who is now trolling Britain on social media. Sir Keir also ignored Mr Musk and repeatedly refused to be drawn on the issue when speaking to the BBC after his emergency Cobra meeting. He said: My focus is on ensuring that our communities are safe. That is my sole focus and I think its very important for us all to support the police in what theyre doing. I went up to Southport to speak to some of the police who had been the first responders to the terrible attack that happened. They described the scene to me and what they had to deal with when those girls were attacked. Those same officers were then attacked on their own streets later the same day the same officers who had been the first responders. Our first duty is to support the police in a difficult exercise that they are engaged in, keeping us safe... the police are doing a difficult job in difficult circumstances and I think that everybody should be giving their full support to ensure that we can make sure that our streets are safe and our communities feel safe and secure. That is really where the focus ought to be. That is my sole focus and thats why I held this second Cobra meeting. But justice minister Heidi Alexander said: We have got police officers being seriously injured on our streets. People are looting buildings. Theyre setting buildings alight, and for someone who has a big platform, a large following, to be exercising that power in such an irresponsible way, I think is actually pretty unconscionable. Keir Starmer will chair a second Cobra meeting to deal with ongoing violent disorder ( PA Wire ) Meanwhile, commentator Nels Abbey, author of Think Like a White Man, demanded a UK travel ban on Mr Musk. He said: Britain banned Snoop Dogg, Chris Brown, Ja Rule and Michael Savage for a lot less than inciting race riots and winking towards a civil war in our country. Keir Starmer should ban Elon Musk from entering the UK and using our airspace. The two Labour MPs competing for the chair of the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee Chi Onwurah and Dawn Butler have both told Politico that they will demand Mr Musk appears before them to answer for his behaviour. Sir Keirs standing army of almost 6,000 specialist riot officers is braced for further unrest after a list shared online singled out immigration lawyers, charities and support services for mass action on Wednesday evening. One immigration advice centre is boarding up its windows over fears of clashes as the Law Society, representing solicitors in England and Wales, said it has serious concerns about the safety of its members. They called for the prime minister to treat threats against the legal profession with the utmost seriousness as one immigration lawyer revealed he had received a death threat. At least 19 counterprotests are planned to defend immigration services being targeted on the list, which was widely shared in far-right groups on Telegram. Police are braced for another night of violence, with concerns raised about the safety of immigration law specialists ( PA Wire ) Anti-fascist campaign group Hope not Hate described the roll of targets, circulated by an anonymous organiser also linked to riots in Southport and Liverpool, as a hit list and urged everyone named to be on high alert. At an emergency cabinet meeting, Sir Keir updated his senior ministers. Afterwards, he said: When I went to Southport, I spoke to police who described what it was like to attend the mass stabbing of little girls and then to be back on duty the next day in riot gear, having bricks thrown at them. This is something no one would have ever wanted to see and we need to be calling it out for what it is. It is not protest. It is violent disorder and needs to be treated as such, as criminal activity. Ninety-nine point nine per cent of people across the country want their streets to be safe and to feel safe in their communities, and we will take all necessary action to bring the disorder to an end. The prime minister then held an evening session of the emergency Cobra committee meeting with his deputy prime minister Angela Rayner, home secretary Yvette Cooper, senior government officials and police chiefs to ensure the authorities are prepared for a new wave of violence. Scottish secretary Ian Murray also put out a warning that the unrest could spread to Scotland. He said: I've spoken to the chief constable of Police Scotland today and made clear to her that she and her officers have my full support. I am reassured that they do not have any specific intelligence that disorder is likely in Scotland at this point, but we must not be complacent. So far, courts have not been asked to stay open 24/7 but the measure is possible if the number of cases involving rioters continues to balloon. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Jess Phillips has been accused of making excuses for masked men shouting, abusing and intimidating members of the media, after gangs of men in balaclavas turned out in Birmingham on Monday night. Former home secretary James Cleverly called for the home office minister to think about the consequences of her words after the Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley tweeted about violent scenes in her constituency. Large groups of men, some sporting Palestinian flags, gathered outside a mosque in the Bordesley Green area after rumours circulated that the far right were planning on targeting it. Jess Phillips has been criticised for tweets she posted as masked gangs turned out in Birmingham ( Channel 4 ) Footage later in the evening showed a number of incidents involving the masked men, some attacking passing cars and in another incident setting upon a man outside a pub. A man with a knife attacked a Sky News van as the TV crew attempted to leave the area after being told they were not welcome, reporter Becky Johnson later said. Ms Johnson was interrupted by a protester on a motorbike who swore and made rude gestures at the camera while attempting to deliver a live report in Birmingham. Ms Phillips suggested that the rumours of the far-right gathering had been deliberately spread in a bid to cause trouble. To be clear, all day rumours have been spread that a far-right group were coming and it was done entirely to get Muslim people out on the street to drive this content, the Home Office minister tweeted. It is misinformation being spread to create trouble. A large number of men, many wearing masks, turned out in Birmingham ( X ) Responding to a second clip of a man in a balaclava swearing at the reporter, Ms Phillips said: These people came to this location because it has been spread that racists were coming to attack them. This misinformation was spread entirely to create this content. Mr Cleverly criticised her for the comments, writing on social media: Home Office ministers should not be making excuses for masked men shouting, abusing, and intimidating members of the media. Ministers are not commentators or casual observers, they are decision makers and need to think about the consequences of words and actions. Fellow Tory leadership candidate Tom Tugendhat also weighed in, saying: These are dark days for our country. Violent mobs cannot be allowed to threaten the basic freedoms of our friends and neighbours. The government must urgently get a grip of the situation and end the lawless behaviour of a few. Ms Phillips, who was re-elected in her Birmingham Yardley constituency at the general election, described the election campaign as absolutely horrible after enduring abuse throughout. Her majority in the seat, which she has held since 2015, was slashed to just 693 votes after being challenged by a Workers Party candidate campaigning on a pro-Gaza ticket. Sky reporter Becky Johnson was interrupted by a protester on a motorbike who swore and made rude gestures at the camera while attempting to deliver a live report in Birmingham ( Sky News ) Her acceptance speech was interrupted by boos, as well as shouts of Shame on you and Free Palestine. Ms Phillips used the speech to thank West Midlands Police for its response to the aggression that we have suffered during the campaign, adding: I didnt bring my children here tonight because I knew this would happen and they deserve better. The MP resigned from the shadow front bench last year to vote in parliament for a ceasefire in Gaza. But the party as a whole has faced criticism for its response to the conflict after Sir Keir Starmer waited until December 2023 to call for a ceasefire. Hundreds of people have been arrested after riots linked to the far right rocked major cities including Manchester, Liverpool and Hull. Mosques are being offered greater protection with new emergency security as a result of the disorder seen across the UK. The new measures, announced by the government on Sunday, build on the existing protective security for mosques scheme, speeding up the process in which they can apply for additional security personnel to be deployed. Meanwhile, Sir Keir on Monday ordered a new standing army of specialist police officers to be set up to bring an end to the disorder after chairing an emergency Cobra meeting in the morning. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Anti-immigration rioters have been accused of defiling the Union flag by the Archbishop of Canterbury. The Most Reverend Justin Welbys comments were in response to violent protesters seen waving Union Flags in street demonstrations across Britain. Hundreds of people have been arrested after riots linked to the far right rocked major cities including Manchester, Liverpool and Hull, with violent mobs setting fire to hotels housing refugees and clashing with the police. A far-right protester wrapped himself in the flag in Leeds on Saturday ( PA ) Asked what his message was to such people, the Archbishop said: This is not British, it is not English. They defile the flag they wrap themselves in. Violence and swearing in the face of police from two feet is never going to convince anyone. Speaking to BBC Radio 4s Today Programme, he condemned the appalling manipulation of people on social media, adding: They talk about defending this countrys Christian values. When Jesus was asked what you should do in life to have a good life he said love God, love your neighbour and love your enemy. The Archbishop also said that while living in a run down area was no excuse for violence, wealth had to be shared more fairly between rich and poor in the UK. Social deprivation does not in any way justify this violence. But we need to relook at how the benefits of our economy are shared right across everyone in need. Everyone needs to gain from being British - one of the seven richest countries on Earth. Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has said rioters defile the flag they wrap themselves in (Mike Egerton/PA) ( PA Wire ) I am not saying being marginalised - which a lot of people are in historic areas of high unemployment - justifies violence: quite the reverse. He also spoke movingly of the grief of the parents of the three young girls killed in Southport that triggered the riots. Father of six Archbishop Welby recalled the death of his own daughter Johanna, who was killed in a car accident aged seven months in 1983. He said he and his wife Caroline had gone through losing a child as a child. It is the most overwhelming, dominating thing that could happen to you. The whole world changes. The last thing you want is for this to be instrumentalised by people far away choosing to turn this into a cause of criminality and rioting. His comments came after he joined forces with Muslim and Jewish leaders to denounce the violent protests. The Archbishop, the Chief Rabbi and the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Westminster joined two of Britains most prominent Sunni and Shia Muslims to condemn the violence and praise those who volunteered to repair damage caused by the disorder. In a letter to The Times, they said the hatred, violence and vandalism seen during riots across the country are a stain on our national moral conscience. Over the last few days, we have watched in horror as a small minority has brought hatred, violence and vandalism to towns and cities across the country. We have seen anti-Muslim hatred and the targeting of mosques; asylum seekers and refugees attacked; violence directed towards the police and private property, all of which are a stain on our national moral conscience, the letter reads. Hundreds of people have been arrested after riots ( Getty ) It was signed by Sir Ephraim Mirvis, the Most Rev Justin Welby, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Qari Asim, who chairs the Mosques and Imams National Advisory Board, and Dr Sayed Razawi, director-general of the Scottish Ahlul Bayt Society. Such a strongly worded show of unity is especially rare in light of the continuing conflict in Israel and Gaza. Violence broke out across the UK following the killing of three young girls in Southport last week, after social media posts falsely claimed the suspect of the Southport stabbing attack was a Muslim immigrant. On Monday, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said social media had put rocket boosters under far-right groups when it comes to the organisation, the attention and the misinformation surrounding the riots. A large crowd gathered outside a mosque in Middlesbrough on Sunday night and others have since been targeted. In Rotherham, anti-immigration rioters smashed the windows of the Holiday Inn Express before starting fires. In response, Sir Keir Starmer on Monday ordered a new standing army of specialist police officers to be set up to bring an end to the disorder after chairing an emergency Cobra meeting in the morning. Meanwhile, mosques are being offered greater protection with new emergency security as a result of the disorder seen across the UK. The new measures, announced by the government on Sunday, build on the existing Protective Security for Mosques Scheme, speeding up the process in which they can apply for additional security personnel to be deployed. On Tuesday, justice minister Heidi Alexander said that UK courts could sit through the night in order to swiftly see rioters in the dock. She told LBC Radio: The additional courts protocol is something that could possibly be invoked in different regions of the UK if the chief police officer and the chief prosecutor in that area decide that they want it. They make an application to the judiciary and so the judiciary indicated yesterday that they would be willing to consider any of those requests. It would mean that in the magistrates courts there could be longer sittings, sittings through the evening, the night, at weekends. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A 5-year-old boy was rushed to the hospital after he was severely burned when a boat exploded on an Oklahoma lake. The explosion took place at Bridgeview Marina at Lake Texoma near Madill, Oklahoma, around 2.45 pm Sunday. At least three people were on the boat at the time of the explosion two women, aged 51 and 25, as well as the boy. According to KOCO, a 52-year-old man, Brandon Cox, was also on the boat at the time. Cox and the two women were uninjured but the boy suffered burns to his legs, arms, and face, according to WFAA and KOCO. The boy was taken to Parkland Burn Center in Dallas by helicopter almost 100 miles away. As of Monday evening, he had been released, according to Fox 4. The family is making the trip from Dallas back to their home in Oklahoma City. A five-year-old boy was flown by helicopter to a hospital to be treated for burns after a boat exploded on an Oklahoma lake ( Madill Fire Department ) The incident happened as they were refueling the boat, the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety said. The boat drifted from the dock and when they went to restart the boat, a spark ignited the gasoline fumes, setting the vessel on fire, officials said. The blast is being investigated by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. Troopers have said that the explosion was caused by equipment failure. Madill Fire Department and Tri-City Fire Department worked diligently to extinguish the fire. We drafted water from the lake and were able to extinguish the fire in a timely manner, the Madill Fire Department stated. Kami Elkins and her children were on Lake Texoma when they saw the black plumes of smoke. We were going to give them our fire extinguishers to help, but then we saw the smoke getting worse, she told Fox 4. The first responders were only minutes away from the scene. We didnt know that a family was previously on the boat, she added. The flames took the boat apart down to the frame. Here I am with my husband and my two kids, and we are sitting out here watching this, Elkins told Fox 4. And theres a family that had to drag their own kid off the boat from getting burned. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Alec Baldwins high-profile manslaughter trial over the fatal shooting on the set of movie Rust was improperly dismissed by the judge, according to prosecutors. In a bombshell ruling in the middle of Baldwins trial in July, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer threw out the case against the Hollywood star, claiming that New Mexico police and prosecutors had withheld ammunition evidence from the defence. The case was dismissed with prejudice, meaning the charges cannot be refiled, with the judge saying that it was necessary to protect the integrity of the judicial system. In a court filing on 31 July, which has now been made public, special prosecutor Kari Morrissey argued that the judge misunderstood the evidence and dropped the case without hearing any of the testimony or argument. Although the courts final order has not yet been filed, undersigned counsel contends that the court misunderstood the testimony on July 12, 2024, and improperly dismissed the case against Mr Baldwin, Ms Morrissey said in the documents. In the filing, the prosecutor urged the judge not to overturn the conviction of Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed as a result of Mr Baldwins case being dismissed. Alec Baldwin breaks down in court after charges of involuntary manslaughter against him were dismissed ( Court TV ) Both Mr Baldwin and Gutierrez-Reed were charged with involuntary manslaughter in 2023 over the shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during a scene rehearsal on a ranch just outside Santa Fe in October 2021. Mr Baldwin was holding the prop Colt 45 during a scene rehearsal when the gun fired, with a bullet striking Ms Hutchins and director Joel Souza. Mr Souza survived but Ms Hutchins died from her injuries. Gutierrez-Reed went on trial first and, in March, she was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter. The family of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins could still bring civil lawsuits against Baldwin ( Getty ) During closing arguments in her trial, Ms Morrissey said Gutierrez-Reed repeatedly failed to maintain proper firearm safety and that her negligence led to Ms Hutchins death, claiming that she unknowingly brought live ammunition onto the film set. Now, Gutierrez-Reed has filed a motion to dismiss her case too, citing the same misconduct by police and prosecutors as in Mr Baldwins case. In the wake of Baldwins case being thrown out, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed has filed a motion to dismiss her case ( Santa Fe New Mexican ) Despite Mr Baldwin being free from criminal charges, Ms Hutchinss widower Matthew Hutchins has vowed to bring him back to court through civil suits. We respect the courts decision, his attorney Brian Parish told Deadline back in July. We look forward to presenting all the evidence to a jury and holding Mr Baldwin accountable for his actions in the senseless death of [Ms] Hutchins. Mr Baldwin has always maintained his innocence and said in a previous interview with ABC News that he did not pull the trigger of the gun. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} An Ohio father read from the Bible, told his children he loved them, and called his own father cryptically telling him that his eldest boy would be the hardest one before he murdered his three young sons in a horror attack at the family home. Chad Doerman, 33, shot and killed his sons Clayton Doerman, 7, Hunter Doerman, 4, and Chase Doerman, 3, in Monroe Township, about 75 miles west of Columbus, back on June 15 2023. On Friday, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three consecutive life terms in prison. Now, disturbing new details have emerged about Doermans actions in the lead-up to the murders and of the final hours of the three young boys lives. In a press briefing on Monday, Clermont County Prosecuting Attorney Mark Tekulve revealed that on the day of the shooting spree, Doerman had lunch with his wife Laura and told her: This will be my last good meal. Despite this mysterious statement, Laura did not think there was a need to do something to protect the family and her husband then spent the afternoon doing yard work and playing with the children. Chad Doerman pleaded guilty to shooting dead his three young sons, aged 3 to 7 ( Facebook ) At around 3.30 to 3.45pm, Doerman began reading the Bible to Hunter, Tekulve said. He was walking around the house with the Bible, mumbling Chad knows whats right. Chad knows whats right, he said. Just before 4pm, Doerman asked his family to join him for a nap in the master bedroom. His wife and three sons entered the room with him while his 12-year-old stepdaughter watched television in another room. When Doerman opened the gun safe, his wife grew alarmed, telling him: Youre scaring me. The 33-year-old murderer wept in court as he admitted to gunning down his three young sons ( Cincinnati Enquirer ) What happened next was a series of events that brought experienced officers to tears, Tekulve told reporters in a separate press briefing on Friday. Doerman told his family he loved them and called his sons the best boys ever. Then he jumped up from the bed and grabbed the .22 rifle from the safe, with the prosecutor revealing that his family were initially worried for his safety rather than their own, fearing he would kill himself. Laura is screaming, the boys are screaming, Laura is frightened that hes about to kill himself, said Tekulve. Theyre all trying to discourage him, telling him that they love him and begging him not to kill himself. Bodycam footage shows the moment Chad Doerman is arrested for killing his three young sons ( ABC/Screenshot ) The shootings took place in Monroe Township, Ohio in June this year ( Cincinnati Enquirer ) Laura took out her phone to call 911 but Doerman threw it across the room and turned the gun on Hunter, shooting the four-year-old boy multiple times. He then chased his wife and stepdaughter out of the house and wrestled his other two sons away from them, before also shooting and killing Clayton and Chase. The 12-year-old girl was uninjured, but her mother suffered a gunshot wound to her hand while trying to shield one of her sons from Doermans attack. The father-of-three was arrested that day and indicted on charges of aggravated murder, kidnapping and felonious assault. Prosecutors initially sought the death pentalty before reaching a plea deal with Doerman handing him three life sentences, saying it was best for the survivors: Doing anything further would be an act of cruelty. Chad Doerman is facing three consecutive lifetimes sentences in prison for killing his three young sons ( Clermont County Sheriff ) Laura has also released a heartbreaking statement, saying that while no punishment will ever bring her sons back, having a guarantee that the will spend the rest of his life behind bars is what is best for her family. I am in full agreement with how the criminal case was resolved, and the decision to end this criminal case with a plea and multiple life sentences brings some finality to the court case for my daughter and me, Laura said. Remember them as the three little boys who loved fishing, go-carting, and swimming, the statement continued. Remember them as the boys who love to have fun and were inseparable from one another. Their lives are not only about what happened to them they are so much more that that. I love you Clayton, Hunter, and Chase. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The owners of a Colorado funeral home who allegedly stored 190 decaying bodies and sent grieving families fake ashes were ordered by a judge to pay $950 million to the victims relatives. Return to Natures owners, Carie and Jon Hallford, took $130,000 from families for cremation and burial services that were never carried out, authorities said. An investigation into the funeral home was launched by the Fremont County Sheriffs Office in October after an odor coming from the facility in Penrose led police to the site. Nearly 200 bodies were found stacked inside and the couple had fled Colorado to escape prosecution. They were arrested in Oklahoma in November and charged with multiple counts of money laundering, forgery, theft, and abuse of a corpse. Prosecutors revealed texts in court between the owners in which one suggested disposing of bodies by digging a big hole and treating them with lye or setting them on fire. Return to Nature owners Jon and Carie Halford face both federal and state charges after the gruesome find of nearly 200 decaying bodies. A judge has now owed $950 million to be paid to the victims relatives. ( AP ) The pair now face hundreds of criminal charges in separate state and federal cases, including abuse of a corpse. But the judgment is unlikely to be paid out since the pair has been in financial trouble for years, The Associated Press reported. That leaves the nearly $1 billion sum largely symbolic of the emotional devastation wreaked on family members who learned the remains of their mothers, fathers or children werent in the ashes they ceremonially spread or clutched tight but were instead decaying in a bug-infested building. Im never going to get a dime from them, so, I dont know, its a little frustrating, said Crystina Page, who had hired the funeral home to cremate her sons remains in 2019. She carried the urn she thought held his ashes across the country until the news arrived in 2023 that his body had been identified in the Return to Nature facility, four years after his death. Dozens of family members have received similar news as the 190 bodies have been identified, shattering their grieving processes. Many are still picking up the pieces, haunted by nightmares of what their decomposing family member may have looked like, or burdened by guilt that they had let a loved one down. It just kept getting worse and worse and worse, Makayla Pithan Trumbo, who found out her mom was at the funeral home, previously told The Independent. There were also revelations that there were few federal regulations for the funeral home industry adding to the pain of the families. Every state has their own kind of needs and goals and what they think is important so we try to not really push down and dictate, Christopher Farmer, general counsel for the National Funeral Directors Association, tells The Independent. We have recommendations, we have kind of proposed model laws but we respect the autonomy of the state. In Colorado, nearly anyone can open a funeral home and the state doesnt license operators. There also havent been regular inspections of the funeral homes in the state, according to reports. She was identified pretty quickly; we were able to get her remains from the coroners office, and we had one of the other funeral homes that were offering to do the cremation for free complete the proper cremation, Makayla told The Independent, reiterating how Karan was the backbone of our family. And we all got new necklaces, and we got a new scatter urn, because were going to be spreading her ashes. An investigation into the funeral home was launched by the Fremont County Sheriffs Office in October after an odor coming from the facility in Penrose led police to the site ( AP ) While the victims and the class actions attorney, Andrew Swan, understood from the outset that it was unlikely families would receive any financial compensation, part of the hope was to haul the Hallfords into court and demand answers. Jon Hallford, who is currently in custody, is being represented by the public defenders office, which does not comment on cases. Carie Hallford, who is out on bail, did not acknowledge the civil case or show up to hearings. Her attorney, Michael Stuzynski, was not immediately available for comment. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Alabamas second nitrogen gas execution is set to go ahead as planned after a death row inmate agreed to drop further litigation against the state as part of a settlement agreement. A federal judge dismissed Alan Millers case against Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall on Monday after the two entered into a confidential settlement. The action came a day before a scheduled federal hearing for Miller, 59, who was trying to block his execution, which is slated to take place between September 26 and 27. In his lawsuit against the state, Miller raised concerns regarding the nitrogen gas method after media witnesses at the execution of Kenneth Smith in January reported that the man suffered what may have amounted to cruel and unusual punishment. Smith was the first person in the US to be executed using the nitrogen gas method, a move that was widely condemned by advocacy organizations and the United Nations. Alan Miller, 59, is set to be put to death in Alabama in September after he agreed to drop further litigation against the state ( Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Miller had suggested that Alabama make several changes when using nitrogen gas for executions, including using medical-grade nitrogen and allowing a trained professional inside the chamber to monitor the gas flow and use of sedatives. The Associated Press reported that a spokesperson for Marshall could not confirm if the state had agreed to make the changes. The Attorney Generals office characterized the settlement as a victory for the methods implementation in death penalty cases. The resolution of this case confirms that Alabamas nitrogen hypoxia system is reliable and humane, Marshall said in a written statement. Millers complaint was based on media speculation that Kenneth Smith suffered cruel and unusual punishment in the January 2024 execution, but what the state demonstrated to Millers legal team undermined that false narrative. Millers execution will go forward as planned in September. The Independent emailed Millers attorney for comment. In an email to the Associated Press, Mara E Klebaner, the mans attorney, said: Miller entered into a settlement on favorable terms to protect his constitutional right to be free from cruel and unusual punishments. Still, Klebaner refuted the characterization of a press release put out by Marshalls office saying the settlement successfully defends constitutionality of nitrogen executions. No court upheld the constitutionality of the states proposed nitrogen hypoxia method of execution in Mr Millers case, thus the states claim that it successfully defend(ed) that methods constitutionality is incorrect. By definition, a settlement agreement does not involve a ruling on the merits of the underlying claim, she said. Miller was convicted of fatally shooting Terry Jarvis, Lee Holdbrooks and Scott Yancy in 1999. The state previously tried to put him to death in September 2022 but failed to meet protocols by a midnight deadline. Miller had chosen to be put to death with nitrogen execution following the failed attempt. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The notorious January 6 Capitol rioter known as the QAnon Shaman will soon get his iconic headdress and spear back following a federal judges ruling. Jacob Chansley was one of thousands of people who stormed the US Capitol on January 6 2021, in a bid to stop the certification of the electoral college votes for President Joe Biden. Chansley instantly became one of the most recognisable and so easily arrested rioters thanks to his infamous horned, coyote-tailed headdress and six-foot spear. He was charged and later pleaded guilty to obstructing a federal proceeding. In November, he was sentenced to a 41 months in prison but was released from federal prison for good behavior after serving only 27 months and sent to an Arizona halfway house. He has two years left of his court-supervised release. On Monday, US District Judge Royce Lamberth ruled that federal prosecutors must return his viking-inspired garb to him. Prosecutors had argued it should remain in the governments possession in case Chansley contests his conviction in the future. The QAnon Shaman aka Jacob Chansley inside the Senate chamber during the Jan 6 Capitol riot ( Getty Images ) But the judge disagreed, saying there is voluminous video and photo evidence of Chansley at the riots. Is not clear how Mr. Chansley could contest his conviction as he has been sentenced, abandoned his direct appeal, and seen his motion denied, the judge wrote. Since the riot, Chansley has undergone a major change not just ditching the red, white and blue face paint, spear and bizarre headgear. Chansley has disavowed QAnon and denounced former president Donald Trump after the former president rejected the rioters petition for a pardon. Rioters attack the US Capitol on January 6 2021 ( Getty Images ) Claiming he was groomed by MAGA propaganda, he called the FBI and unsuccessfully offered to testify before Congress during Trumps second impeachment hearing. In a statement in February, Chansley said he was deeply disappointed in former president Trump and apologized for his role in the riot. He was not honourable, he said of Trump. He let a lot of peaceful people down. I have to leave judging him up to other people. Court documents detailing Chansleys plea agreement revealed that he was one of the first 30 people to enter the Capitol building. According to the statement of facts, he and others entered through the Lower West Terrace after climbing stairs on scaffolding erected in preparation for Bidens inauguration. Rioters including the QAnon Shaman inside the US Capitol building ( EPA ) Upon reaching the second floor of the building, he used his bullhorn to rile up the crowd and demand that lawmakers be brought out. In photographs now famous around the world, the bare-chested rioter shouted Freedom! to the crowd of rioters. He also screamed obscenities in the Senate gallery, before sitting in the seat of then-vice president Mike Pence, calling him a f*****g traitor, and writing Its Only A Matter of Time. Justice Is Coming! on a piece of paper. Following his arrest, Chansley went on a nine-day hunger strike at the DC Department of Corrections facility in Washington in protest at the lack of organic food. He was then moved to Virginias Alexandria Detention Centre, where he was given organic food. In a bizarre plot twist, Chansley in November last year indicated that he intended to run as a Libertarian in Arizonas 8th Congressional District Election, but fumbled his chance to have his name appear as a candidate in the primaries earlier this week. More than 600 people have so far been arrested for their roles in the January 6 Capitol riot. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The rapper TI was arrested in Georgia on an out-of-state warrant only to be released when police realized they had got the wrong man. Atlanta authorities believed they had found the Clifford Harris wanted in Baltimore for stalking and violent behavior towards a woman when they handcuffed TI, known offstage as Clifford Joseph Harris Jr, at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport on Sunday night. But the Baltimore warrant had no connection to TI and was issued for a completely different man with a similar name, according to TMZ. TI's lawyer Steve Sadow confirmed the details of the case to The Independent, and police records showed that a Clifford Joseph Harris Jr was arrested at 6:19pm Sunday. The 43-year-old Grammy winner, who was born and raised in Atlanta, has had a long history of skirmishes with the law dating back to his teenage years, ranging from drug convictions in Georgia to a bicycle-related infraction in Amsterdam. He also had a $75,000 settlement with US financial regulators over allegedly fraudulent crypto promotions. In recent years, more than 30 women have reportedly accused TI of raping or sexually assaulting them, though no criminal charges have ever arisen from the claims. Last year one of those women filed a lawsuit against TI and his wife Tameka 'Tiny' Harris, accusing them of drugging and raping her after meeting her at a nightclub in Los Angeles around 2005. Both TI and his wife have strongly denied all those allegations, saying they were "innocent of these fake claims" and "will not be shaken down". The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A California father of two is in critical condition after he was struck by a stray bullet while sleeping in his Oakland home last week. Run Hua Kuang, 33, was napping Thursday afternoon after getting home from work as a delivery truck driver when a bullet pierced his wall and struck him in the head, a GoFundMe page created by his family stated. Kuang was taken to the hospital where he underwent seven hours of surgery, the fundraising site stated. Hes now on life support in the intensive care unit. This shocking incident has left the entire family traumatized and in deep distress, Jasmine Kuang, his sister, wrote. Its not clear what the East Oakland shooting stemmed from or who was involved, according to The Mercury News. No suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident. The Oakland Housing Authority is leading the investigation into the matter. Run Hua Kuang is on life support after being shot in the head while napping in his home ( Kuang family ) Kuangs sister, Jasmine Kuang, said her brother immigrated from China to the United States in 2005. Kuang shares two daughters, a 3-year-old and 7-month-old, with his wife of seven years, and was the sole provider for his family, his sister said. He was also supporting his parents, who lived with the family in their home. The GoFundMe page describes Kuang as a devoted husband, father and son. This tragedy had created a severe financial burden for our family. Furthermore, Huas absence is even more of a hardship and struggle since he is the only one who can speak limited English and take care of the responsibilities and communications for the household. We are keeping Hua in our prayers for a miracle. We are sincerely grateful for any financial support that you can provide, the sister wrote on the page, which has raised $180,000 out of a $250,000 goal. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Elon Musks X filed an antitrust lawsuit against an industry group representing numerous global brands, including the social networks own advertisers, accusing it of conspiring to deprive X of billions of dollars. We tried peace for 2 years, now it is war, Musk wrote on his social media platform. The antitrust suit, filed in Texas federal court, accuses the Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM) of colluding to convince brands to limit or remove their advertising from X, which has struggled with declining revenues since Musk bought the company in 2022. The legal action also names GARM members including CVS Health, Mars, Orsted, and Unilever. The Independent has contacted GARM and these firms for comment. "These actions were all against the unilateral self-interest of the advertisers; they made economic sense only in furtherance of a conspiracy performed in the confidence that competing advertisers were doing the same," the lawsuit reads. In a post on X, CEO Lina Yaccarino accused the ad group of trying to cut off access to the Global Town Square that exists on the site, which cost X billions of dollars. To put it simply, people are hurt when the marketplace of ideas is undermined and some viewpoints are not funded over others as part of an illegal boycott, she wrote. The lawsuit is a major gamble for X, which reported declining revenues in the last two quarters of this year. GARM represents brands that spend more than 90 percent of global ad dollars, according to The New York Times, and the majority of Xs revenues come from advertising. The industry coalition has been under scrutiny in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, where a report last month from the Judiciary Committee accused GARM of cutting out conservative news sites and pressuring Spotify over Joe Rogans scientifically unfounded claims about Covid. GARM, the report concluded, likely violated federal antitrust laws and could be shown to be demonetizing certain viewpoints to limit consumer choice. X, under Musk, hasnt been afraid to go into legal combat. Last year, it sued Media Matters for America, a left-leaning media watchdog group, for defamation over an article claiming X allowed top brands to show their content near posts with antisemitic and neo-Nazi ideas. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Tropical Storm Debby has left at least five people dead after it made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane along Floridas Big Bend coast on Monday morning, before charting a path through parts of Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. The storm continues to drift through southern Georgia and eastern South Carolina as of Tuesday after crossing the Florida-Georgia border on Monday evening. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has urged both states to prepare for catastrophic flooding, in an update on Tuesday morning. Deadly hazards remain in Florida including downed power lines and severe flooding, the NHC added. South Carolina has already experienced harsh conditions, with two tornadoes wiping out power lines and causing damage to homes on Edisto Beach and Seabrook Island. The city of Charleston is set to face historic rainfalls of up to 24 inches, which is expected to peak on Wednesday. The storm has so far taken the lives of five Florida and Georgia residents, including two children, a 19-year-old, a 38-year-old woman and an unidentified trucker. Debby is expected to move slowly off the southeast coast and into the Atlantic Ocean by late Tuesday, where it is likely to meander for 24 hours before turning back towards the coast by Thursday. It is expected to then move through North Carolina before reaching New England by Sunday. Map shows latest wind speed probabilities for Tropical Storm Debby ( National Hurricane Center ) Map shows latest flash flood probabilities for Tropical Storm Debby ( National Hurricane Center ) The NHC first announced that the storm had come ashore near the coastal town of Steinhatchee in Taylor County, Florida, at approximately 7am ET on Monday with maximum sustained winds of 80mph. Debby was upgraded to a Category 1 storm on Monday morning before being downgraded back to a tropical storm. More than 16 inches of rain were dumped on parts of central Florida. The director of the NHC Jamie Rhome told the BBC that the storm will cause catastrophic flooding. The National Weather Service (NWS) also gave a tornado watch update, which predicted almost 11.7 million Florida and Georgia residents could be exposed to tornadoes in locations ranging from Sarasota, Florida to Savannah, Georgia. Map shows latest rainfall forecast for Tropical Storm Debby ( National Hurricane Center ) Map shows latest storm surge forecast for Tropical Storm Debby ( National Hurricane Center ) More than 350,000 residents and businesses were left without power during peak outage across Florida, according to PowerOutage.us. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said some 17,000 linemen are working to restore electricity. Debby grew in strength in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. DeSantis declared a state of emergency on Sunday and warned residents to make sure youre executing your plan now. Florida residents began boarding up their windows and evacuating homes in storm surge evacuation zones. During a briefing on Monday morning the Florida governor also warned citizens not to tempt fate by driving in torrential conditions, which he said would risk traffic fatalities. Once over the Atlantic, Debby is not expected to regain hurricane strength, meaning South Carolina, Georgia, and parts of Floridas northeastern coasts are under tropical storm rather than hurricane warnings. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A professional skydiving instructor has died and her student left seriously injured after the pair collided with dust devils in southern California on Friday. An instructor for Skydive Perris, Devrey LaRiccia Chase, 28, was on her last jump of the day. She and her student were descending with their parachute deployed in a routine tandem jump when they encountered the dust devils, according to Devreys husband, Freddy Chase, via KTLA 5 News. Dust devils are dust-filled whirlwinds, which can also contain debris, and form in dry and clear-sky conditions when the ground reaches a high temperature. They resemble a small tornado but are not generally thought to be a threat. A fellow skydiver, LaRiccia Chases husband, 32, explained that she managed to avoid the first dust devil but was caught in the second as it was travelling over grass, meaning she could not see the direction in which it was moving. This sent her canopy into an uncontrolled spin, bringing her and her student crashing into the ground from a height of approximately 25 to 30 feet. The pair were transported to hospital, where LaRiccia Chase was later pronounced dead. As of Tuesday (6 August) the identity and status of her student have not been released. In a post on Instagram, where he has over 400,000 followers, her husband expressed his grief at losing his wife, who he had known for five years, and called her an angel. I loved you so much baby, I dont know how Im going to get through the rest of my life not hearing your obnoxious laugh, staring into your beautiful eyes or not seeing your breathtaking smile every day, he wrote. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Elementary school employees in South Carolina have been fired after they turned up wearing Border Patrol t-shirts to a staff event with a cantina theme. In photos posted to the Facebook page of Royall Elementary School in Florence, staffers posed in uniform-like t-shirts and sunglasses in front of a fake border wall that appeared to have been constructed for the event. Other employees were pictured wearing brightly-colored sombreros. The photos were posted on July 31 but quickly taken down. The school issued an apology on August 1 saying the images showed an "insensitive disregard for the current challenges our Hispanic population faces." "At Royall, we take great pride in our long-standing tradition of embracing and supporting every student who walks through the doors of our building," the post said. "Our staff is unanimously committed to celebrating the diversity of our families and ensuring that each and every student at Royall is successful, happy, and recognized for his or her unique culture and abilities. We apologize for our insensitivity but look forward to fostering relationships as we begin a new school year." The incident resulted in the firing of at least two employees, according to a letter from the schools superintendent to parents. Royall Elementary School in Florence, South Carolina. Several employees at the school were fired or placed on leave on August 1 after images of a staff event, meant to depict a cantina, showed staffers in US Border Patrol shirts standing in front of a fake border wall ( Google Maps ) Florence One Schools Superintendent Richard O'Malley wrote to parents saying that "several employees are no longer employed by the district or have been placed on leave" over the incident. As superintendent, I will not tolerate anything of this nature in our school district, he wrote. According to O'Malley, the "inappropriate event" took place on professional development day, the day before the first day of school. "I want to assure the Royall Community that the school will continue to provide an exceptional education for all students, with the high expectations and excellence in student achievement that have always been provided by our staff at Royall," he added. The superintendent put two "acting administrators" in charge of the school following the incident. The Independent has sought further information from Florence One Schools. Annette Fling, whose children attend Royall Elementary, told WMBF she found the photos inappropriate. I was pretty furious. I was upset, offended. Its disheartening. Its sad because you feel like were all equal, you try to live like that and something like this is thrown in your face. Its almost like youre a joke," she said. Florence's Democratic Party Chairman Isaac Wilson condemned the image, posting a comment below the photos on Facebook, which have since been taken down. I am appalled by the images shared by educated professionals, but I am more disappointed that someone thought that this tasteless display was representative of Mexican culture, Wilson said. In a time where we should be bringing communities together to solve issues that chronically challenge us, like racism and bigotry, this type of tone-deaf behavior cannot be tolerated. James Johnson III, CEO and founder of the Racial Justice Network, issued a statement saying that the only thing the school would gain from sharing the photos would be to push Former President Trumps agenda. A picture was posted in which staff were wearing shirts that read, US. Border Patrol, were wearing sombreros, and had a hand made brick wall behind them. There was a lot of work, time, effort, and thought put into this display, Johnson wrote. There was no regard for the students and how some would feel and what message they were sending to others. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Tropical Storm Debby has washed up a haul of cocaine worth an estimated $1m onto a beach in the Florida Keys. A spokesperson from the Customs and Border Protection confirmed to The Independent that 25 packages of the narcotic were discovered in Islamorada, Monroe County, by a good samaritan. The drugs were allegedly blown onto the beach as Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane on Monday, causing at least five deaths and widespread damage across the region before charting a path across the southeastern states. Authorities were alerted by an anonymous person who found the cocaine before the packages were passed on to US Border Patrol and processed for seizure, the CBP spokesperson added. The CBP declined to comment when asked to provide more details on where the drugs might have come from and how the unnamed individual found them on the beach. US Border Patrol acting chief patrol Agent Samuel Briggs II shared two photos of the massive haul in a social media post on Monday morning. Hurricane Debby blew 25 packages of cocaine (70 lbs.) onto a beach in the Florida Keys, Briggs II wrote on X on Monday morning. A Border Patrol chief shared photos of the huge haul on Monday ( US Border Patrol/AFP/Getty ) Twenty-five packages weighing approximately 3lbs each were found in Islamorada in Monroe County ( US Border Patrol/AFP/Getty ) Good Samaritan discovered the drugs & contacted authorities. U.S. Border Patrol seized the drugs, which have a street value of over $1 million dollars. Florida is just a few hundred miles away from drug trafficking hubs in the Caribbean used for transporting narcotics from South America to the US and Europe. The Sunshine State is battling the effects of Tropical Storm Debby, which made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane along its Big Bend region on Monday morning. Floridians braced as they faced 80mph winds, flash floods, deadly storm surges and historic amounts of rain. At least five people have been killed, including a 13-year-old boy in Levy County after a tree fell, as the storm charts its path through Florida. A 38-year-old woman and a 12-year-old boy also died in an SUV crash in Dixie County. More than 350,000 residents and businesses were left without power during peak outages across Florida, according to PowerOutage.us. Debby was downgraded back to a tropical storm on Monday evening as it crossed the Florida-Georgia border. It is expected to continue to drift through southern Georgia and the South Carolina coast over the coming days. The National Hurricane Center urged both states to prepare for catastrophic flooding, in an update on Tuesday morning. South Carolina has already been battling harsh conditions, with two tornadoes wiping out power lines and causing damage to homes on Edisto Beach and Seabrook Island. The city of Charleston is set to face historic rainfall of up to 24 inches, which is expected to peak on Wednesday. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A passenger traveling from Washington Dulles International Airport to Berlin , Germany is suing United Airlines after swallowing a metal wire he says was unexpectedly lurking in his in-flight meal. Bastian Bromse required medical intervention to extricate the item, causing pain, agony and mental anguish, according to a federal lawsuit filed in Chicago, where United is headquartered. A United spokeswoman told The Independent the airline did not have anything to share since the litigation is ongoing. The episode occurred on May 27, 2023, aboard United flight 234, states Bromses complaint, which was filed in late July. Once the aircraft reached cruising altitude, the meal service began, according to the complaint. But, it says, when Bromse tucked in, he quickly realized that something was very wrong. Through no fault of his own, Bromse sustained serious injuries to the inside of his throat when he swallowed a piece of wire hidden inside his airline-provided meal, the complaint alleges. The wire became lodged in his throat, and he was required to undergo a medical procedure to have the metal removed, which caused severe discomfort and pain. Bastian Bromse was flying from Washington Dulles International Airport to Berlin when he says the offending object wedged itself in his throat. ( Getty Images ) As a result of the aforesaid accident Bromse suffered pain, agony and mental anguish, the complaint states, adding that Bromse was further deprived of his enjoyment of life, pursuits and interests. He is demanding $170,000 in compensatory damages, the maximum allowed under the Montreal Convention which governs an airlines liability in the event of an in-flight injury as well as a money judgment against United to be determined at trial. Bromse is far from the only traveler to experience such an incident. In June, a business-class passenger flying Air India from Bangalore to San Francisco said he bit down on a metal blade in the roasted sweet potato and fig chaat served with his meal. Airline passengers claim to have found everything from hypodermic needles to human teeth in their meals. ( Getty Images/iStockphoto ) A few spoonfuls into the chaat, I felt something hard/metallic inside the mouth, and after chewing for two-three seconds, I spat it out into the bowl to find a blade, Mathures Paul told The Hindu . Obviously, I complained to the stewardess who spoke for four [or] five seconds. The conversation went something like: Sorry about this and we will inform the catering team. She returned with a bowl of chickpea salad. When a passenger aboard a February 2019 Singapore Airlines flight from Melbourne, Australia to Wellington, New Zealand felt a hard object in his mouth while enjoying a forkful of rice, he soon discovered a human tooth had found its way into his meal . I threw my guts up, the man told the Australian Associated Press. For the rest of the flight I was not well. Just the idea of having someone elses body part in my food is not nice. Other fliers have allegedly found hypodermic needles in their butter chicken, cockroaches in their lentil stew, and severed snake heads in their potatoes . Bromses attorney, Chicago-based Brian LaCien, did not respond to requests for comment on Tuesday. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Bill OReilly, the former Fox News host, criticized former President Donald Trump during an appearance on NewsNation for making a lot of errors on the campaign trail. OReilly argued Trump should be ahead in the polls at this point in the race. The Fox News alum was asked by On Balance host Leland Vittert if conservatives and Republicans would ever admit the fundamental flaws of Trump as a candidate. Why would they do that? OReilly asked. They think that Kamala Harris is much worse than Trump no matter what Trump does, so why would they acknowledge anything like that? That doesnt make sense, he added. Vittert said he didnt believe right-wingers would say anything in public, but that the punditry must acknowledge and take a little bit of responsibility that Donald Trump ... should be up high single, low double digits, and yet by his own unforced errors, hes giving this to Kamala Harris. Former Fox News host Bill OReilly slammed former President Donald Trump for making a lot of errors on the campaign trail, the former anchor said on a NewsNation appearance ( Screenshot / NewsNation ) Hes making a lot of errors, theres no doubt about that, OReilly said. The Georgia thing, that was... you shrug your shoulders. Trump was slammed by conservatives for attacking Georgia Governor Brian Kemp during a rally in Atlanta on Saturday. The former president continues to blame his 2020 loss in the state on Republican officials who refused to give in to Trumps baseless claims of fraud. For about 10 minutes on Saturday, Trump assailed Kemp for not helping him and for not stopping a district attorney from prosecuting him and others for their attempts to overturn the results in the state. Hes a bad guy. Hes a disloyal guy. And hes a very average governor, Trump said. Little Brian, little Brian Kemp. Bad guy. On Monday night, Fox News host Laura Ingraham told her viewers that shooting inside the tent right now of the Republican Party, thats a loser strategy. Its not gonna work. They tried that in 2020 and we lost two Senate seats. Then in 2022... it doesnt work. Youve got to focus on what they are doing to destroy this country, she added. OReilly said on NewsNation that pundits on either side are never gonna admit they make a mistake. OReilly said Trump should be beating Harris in the polls, but because of unforced errors, he is not. ( REUTERS ) They make a lot of money supporting or attacking various candidates, thats what they do, he added. Honesty is not really an equation anymore on television news. I think at this point in history, Donald Trump, I agree with you, should be up in the polls, he told Vittert. The reason hes not is that after he was shot, people had an expectation that he would modify a little bit, and he has not. He picks fights and the fights dont help him, they dont help the American people, he added. OReilly said Trump should be winning Georgia by seven or eight points just because of Laken Riley, the [Georgia college] student who was murdered brutally by an undocumented migrant. OReilly claimed that you have to acknowledge when you allow millions of people into this country unvetted, thats gonna happen, and thats what Biden and Harris have done. So that should have been the focus of his remarks over the weekend, not Brian Kemp and the 2020 election beef, OReilly said. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Previously undisclosed trips by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and wealthy friend Harlan Crow have been unearthed. Its the latest in questionable practices by the justice who has taken millions in gifts and benefits from Republican friends - but has been defiant in his refusal to leave the bench or step down from cases with a potential conflict of interest. The New York Times revealed Monday that Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Oreg.) detailed in a letter a previously undisclosed trip Thomas and his wife, Virginia, took on Crows private jet between Hawaii and New Zealand. The letter was written to Crows attorney demanding more information about the relationship between Crow and the justice. I am deeply concerned that Mr. Crow may have been showering a public official with extravagant gifts, then writing off those gifts to lower his tax bill, Wyden wrote in the letter. Wyden, who chairs the Senate Finance Committee, is spearheading the investigation into Crow and Thomas. Democrats - including President Joe Biden - have called for massive Supreme Court reforms including a code of Ethics and term limits. Thomas did not respond to the Timess request for comment on the letter. A senator says he has unearthed a new trip that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas took with his wife, Ginni, on a wealthy friends private plane that was not disclosed. ( REUTERS ) The justice, first appointed by George H. W. Bush in 1991, has recently faced a firestorm as details of his gifts and concerns about his and wifes political leanings have become public. Virginia, known as Ginni, has been under the microscope since it was revealed she pleaded with officials to overturn the results of the 2020 election where Biden defeated Republican Donald Trump. Thomas received $2.4m in gifts between January 2004 and December 2023, according to a report. That was compared to his other eight colleagues on the Supreme Court, who received a combined $600,000 in gifts in that same span. Many of the gifts were not detailed on the required disclosure forms. Texas-born Crow is a real estate mogul and a major donor to conservative efforts. He has been connected to many gifts and benefits to Thomas, which have raised questions about whether Thomas can be impartial in some cases. So far, Thomas has not given any indication he is willing to recuse himself from such cases. Harlan Crow (pictured) provided many of the gifts that Thomas and his wife received, according to reports. ( AP ) Thomas said he did not believe he needed to disclose the gifts of personal hospitality from friends who had no cases before the countrys highest court. However, federal law requires disclosures from each justice. A spokesman for Crow told the Times the businessman had already responded to the senators investigation and the letter was to harass a private citizen. We consider this matter settled and refer Senator Wyden to our previous correspondence, the statement to the Times read. The newest alleged trip was not included on Thomas 2010 disclosure, according to the Times. To date, Justice Thomas has never disclosed this private jet travel on any financial disclosure forms, even though Justice Thomas has amended disclosures to reflect other international travel on Mr. Crows private jet, the senator noted in the letter. Wyden also stated that Thomas and Crow went on trips to Greece, Russia and the Baltics - none of which were reported on disclosure forms. The letter claims Crow has refused to provide all information on travels with Thomas and it was a final opportunity to disclose the information. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Donald Trumps teenage son, Barron, seemingly influenced the former president to pursue an interview with his friend and right-wing online streamer Adin Ross. In a roughly hour-long interview with Ross, that was streamed on Monday, Trump told the 23-year-old that his son was a big fan and told him landing an interview with Ross was big. My son Barron says hello. Hes a great young guy but hes a big fan of yours, the former president said at the start of the live-streamed interview. Donald Trump told right-wing streamer Adin Ross that his son, Barron, is the one who introduced him to Rosss content. ( Adin Live / YouTube ) Ross is popular with young men particularly with the demographic Barron, 18, belongs. Ross rose to fame initially streaming himself playing video games online but has also dabbled in giving controversial individuals, such as white supremacist Nick Fuentes, airtime on his platform. Barron says, Dad hes really big he said hes also a friend of mine Trump told Ross while admiring the size of the streamers auidence. Ross has amassed more than 4 million followers on YouTube, 7.2 million on Instagram and 1.3 million on Kick. My kids say, Dad you have no idea how big this interview is. I said dont tell me that, Trump said during the interview. The former president indicated his sons were the ones who brought Ross to his attention. He called Rosss success outstanding and later suggested he should, one day, make a bid for president something Ross humbly turned down. Instead, the streamer suggested Barron should he enter the political world. Much of Mondays interview consisted of Ross stroking the former presidents ego allowing Trump to repeat familiar rants and attack Democratic nominee and Vice President Kamala Harris. At one point, Ross outrightly told his platform of 1.36 million followers on Kick to vote for Trump. Barron Trump, the youngest son of former president Donald Trump, supports the right-wing online streamer and told his dad they were friends. ( AP ) He later gifted the former president a Tesla Cybertruck and a gold Rolex, though it is unclear if Trump can accept the gifts per Federal Election Commission guidelines. Trump was quick to boost about the attention his interview with Ross got online. Posting on Tuesday on Truth Social, the former president stated: Wow!!! Adin Ross Interview yesterday EXPLODED, but in a very positive way! Platform set an all time record, by far, with over 100 MILLION Views/Hits. Congratulations to Adin and his wonderful mother, father, and family, who I had the pleasure to meet. Thank you also to Barron Trump for the introduction to your friend, Adin. Young people are the future of America. THOSE NUMBERS ARE REALLY BIG STUFF! The bizarre interview seems part of Trumps campaign strategy to appeal to young men a voting group moving more to the right. Trump sat down in June with social media influencer and professional wrestler Logan Paul to discuss his campaign. Pauls podcast is also popular among young men. Now, Trump has turned his attention to Ross. Before being sanctioned by Twitch in 2023, Ross had more than 7.2 million followers on the streaming platform. The platform permanently banned him after he faced multiple suspensions for hateful conduct. Ross was accused of giving a masked individual a platform to espouse Nazi-like views. He also found himself at the center of a controversy involving the right-wing media personality Andrew Tate who was accused of human trafficking and rape among other charges. Last year, a law firm accused Ross of prompting authorities to investigate Tate on suspicion that he was planning to flee Romania before the trial, according to NBC News. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A fight broke out at the opening of a Trump campaign office in Valdosta, Georgia, police have said. The incident took place last week when State Representative John LaHood said he was approached by activist Sam Carnline after speaking at the event, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Carnline was reportedly wearing a T-shirt calling for paper ballots to be used instead of the current electronic system. The system has come under scrutiny from conservatives making baseless claims of fraud after former President Donald Trump lost Georgia in 2020 by fewer than 12,000 votes. Carnline said the election-related measures supported by LaHood were not strong enough. LaHood told the paper that he and Carnline had a passionate discussion, but that LaHood departed after his wife approached them. Carnline has continued to claim the election was stolen from Trump despite several investigations and recounts confirming that Trump lost Georgia. Thats when things got out of control. Republican aide Brandon Phillips reportedly spat at Carnline, an allegation Phillips denies, according to reports. Phillips is a top advisor to Republican congressman Mike Collins. An opening of a Trump campaign office in Georgia descended into chaos with a fist fight, according to reports. ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Carnline told the Journal-Constitution that Phillips stepped in between him and LaHood and that he told Carnline to quit bothering the state representative. When Carnline didnt step back, he said Phillips began making insults against his family. I probably pointed at him and told him to get away from me. He immediately spit in my face. And at that point, I pushed him and shoved him as hard as I could, Carnline told the paper. He jumped back up. I cocked my fist back and was intending to hit him, but I might have just glanced his shoulder. Then people talked me down. But he deserved it, he added. Lahood and others attending the event say they saw Carnline punch or shove Phillips at least two times. The police account was slightly different than the witnesses. Brandon Phillips got in the middle of the conversation because he didnt like the questions he was asking, police stated regarding Carnline, according to the paper. Words were exchanged between he and Brandon, because he was upset that Brandon spit in his face. I informed Brandon that he instigated the incident by spitting on Carnline, the officer wrote. Both parties agreed to separate and go their separate ways with no further law enforcement action needed. No charges were filed. Phillips has rejected the spitting allegation, claiming that Carnline pushed him to the ground. The dispute arose after a discussion over Georgias election systems. Trump has claimed that the election in Georgia was stolen from him in 2020, costing him the presidency. ( EPA ) Phillips told the Journal-Constitution that he stepped in because he didnt want the fight to escalate. They say politics can be a contact sport, and sometimes it is, Phillips told the outlet. I certainly dont mind defending any volunteers or officials who are trying to contribute in a positive way toward a Trump victory from outside agitators with the opposite agenda, he added. Longtime Republican activist Dennis Futch told the paper that he didnt witness Phillips spit at Carnline, but if it happened it was unintentional as they were both shouting at the time. He added that he saw Carnline shove or hit Phillips two times. Im proud of Brandon because Brandon didnt lay one finger on Sam Carnline. It wasnt a fight. This was Sam trying to be a bully, Futch told the outlet. The altercation was broken up by Chas Cannon, a state representative and Army Veteran. He told the paper that he didnt see Phillip spit at anyone but added that Carnline tried to shove Phillips on several occasions. It was a heated conversation, and I didnt think it was appropriate at an event like that. They were arguing with one another, and they went their separate ways, Cannon told the Journal-Constitution. There were more people there trying to de-escalate the fighting than promote it. It was uncomfortably intense, but thankfully it didnt escalate any further, LaHood told the paper. This was just a minor black eye, but it didnt define the event. Most people there didnt even know it happened. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry offered some advice to parents unhappy about the Ten Commandments being displayed in their childs school - Tell the child not to look at it. During a press conference on Monday, Landry dismissed any potential criticisms about the state requiring public schools to display the religious directives in every classroom. I dont see what the whole big fuss is about, Landry said, calling Moses the original lawgiver. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry told reporters on Monday that parents who find the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms offensive could tell the child not to look at it. ( AP ) When asked what he believes parents against the new law should do, Landry said if they find them so [offensive], then they should tell the child not to look at it. Louisiana became the first state to require public schools to display the religious text in June after the Republican-dominated legislature passed the law with the help of a handful of Democrats. But Landry lambasted those challenging the law, claiming the bill had bipartisan support from both sides and should therefore be respected. I think weve forgotten in this country that democracy actually means majority rules, Landry said. That does not mean when you dont like something you have a right to impose that, which the majority likes. This year, Landry has vetoed 27 bills that passed in the Louisiana state legislature including one that would have prohibited the use of deepfake technology in political advertising. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill says her office will ask a judge to throw out lawsuits challenging the states new law mandating classrooms display the Ten Commandments. ( AP ) Louisianas new law immediately faced legal challenges from civil liberties groups and parents who argued that the mandate pressured students to follow Christianity. Standing beside Landry at the press conference on Monday, State Attorney General Liz Murrill said her office is seeking to have the lawsuit thrown out. While addressing concerns and questions about the new mandate, Landry and Murrill showed models of what the posters could look like. The law requires public school classrooms to display the commandments in large, easily readable font on 11 x 14-inch posters at a minimum. It also must include a four-paragraph context statement. One example showed a picture of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg alongside a quote from when she was in 8th grade when she cited the Ten Commandments as one of the four great documents that benefitted humanity. Another compared the ideals of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. to Moses. One, titled The House of Representatives & The Lawgivers featured a photo of Speaker of the House Mike Johnson. Louisianas law is part of a larger Christian Nationalist movement that is targeting education. In June, Oklahoma school officials mandated that classrooms teach the Bible and Ten Commandments. That new rule is also facing pushback. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Vice President Kamala Harris has now officially been declared the Democratic partys presidential candidate for the 2024 election in place of President Joe Biden making history as the first Black woman and Asian American to top a major party ticket. Her nomination became official late on Monday night, after a five-day round of online balloting by Democratic National Convention (DNC) delegates came to an end. The DNC announced her win in a statement, revealing that she had earned the support of 99 per cent of the 4,567 delegates casting ballots in the roll call vote. By comparison, Trump secured 2,387 votes from the near-2,500 delegates in attendance at last months Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, according to House speaker and convention chair Mike Johnson, which equates to approximately 95.5 per cent of the total. Vice President Harris has historic momentum at her back as we embark on the final steps in officially certifying her as our partys nominee, DNC chair Jaime Harrison and convention chair Minyon Moore said in a statement. The results of the roll call must be certified before Harris and her running mate will accept the nomination at the DNC later this month. The DNC began its virtual roll call vote for delegates on Thursday, with a deadline in place to return ballots by Monday evening. On Friday, it was announced that the former California attorney general had already received enough votes (2,350) from delegates to clinch the nomination to take on Donald Trump in November. Vice President Kamala Harris arrives to speak during a campaign rally in Atlanta, Georgia, on July 30 2024 ( John Bazemore/AP ) In a call with the DNC that day, Harris said she was honored to be the presumptive Democratic nominee for president of the United States and I will tell you, the tireless work of our delegates, our state leaders, and our staff has been pivotal to making this moment possible. We believe in the promise of America: the promise of freedom, opportunity, and justice not just for some, but for all, the Vice President told supporters on Fridays call, according to her campaign. And, ultimately, in this election you all have heard me say many times we each face the question: What kind of country do we want to live in? Do we want to live in a country of freedom, compassion, and rule of law, or a country of chaos, fear, and hate? she asked. And the beauty of our democracy is we each, every one of us, has the power to answer that question. And that is why I say, and know, the power is with the people. Harris will formally accept the nomination in person at the partys convention beginning on August 19. The presidential nominee is now expected to announce her running mate on Tuesday, as the duo kick off a series of campaign stops in battleground states beginning in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are believed to be the final two candidates in contention for the role. Harris moved quickly to secure key endorsements and delegate pledges within days of Bidens withdrawal from the race, which rocketed Harris to the top of the ticket. Biden, former Democratic presidents, party officials, lawmakers, celebrities and scores of voters embraced her candidacy while she earned record-breaking donations to support her run. Trumps campaign has since come out swinging against his new challenger, trying to blame her for Bidens actions in office and targeting her ethnicity and heritage. While both Harris and Trump have seen a surge in donations since Biden dropped out, the Democrat has far surpassed her Republican rival. Supporters injected $310m into her campaigns coffers in July more than double the $139m that Trumps campaign raked in. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The announcement of Tim Walz as Kamala Harriss running mate has shaken up the 2024 presidential race once again, and its also turning the clock back to 2020 when the country was riven by protests following the police murder of George Floyd. Walz was governor when police in his state pinned Floyd to the ground by his neck for more than nine minutes, sparking massive, sometimes violent, protests and looting across the Minneapolis area and the country. Republicans, predictably, have already seized on this moment in Walzs history, painting him as another soft-on-crime liberal who lost control of their city. They make an interesting tag team, because of course, Tim Walz allowed rioters to burn down Minneapolis in the summer of 2020, JD Vance, Walzs rival on the GOP ticket, told Fox News on Tuesday. Those on the left, meanwhile, found plenty to take issue with as well, criticizing heavy police tactics during the protests. So, how did Tim Walz respond to Floyds death? The most controversial part of the governors response to the tragedy came in the days that followed, as protests escalated into looting and arson in parts of Minneapolis, a conflagration that ultimately destroyed 1,500 businesses and buildings and caused an estimated $500m in damage. Parties still disagree over whether Walz activated the states National Guard too late, allowing Minneapolis to suffer. On Wednesday, May 27, two days after Floyds murder, Minneapolis Jacob Frey and then-police chief Medaria Arradondo both reached out to the governors office, requesting the Guard deploy in the city to stem the growing chaos. A man rides a scooter past the charred wreckage of a building after being burned to the ground during last weeks rioting sparked by the death of George Floyd on June 2, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota ( Getty Images ) "We expressed the seriousness of the situation. The urgency was clear," Frey said the following month, as criticisms mounted of the citys response to the protests. "He did not say yes...He said he would consider it." The Guard wasnt activated until the following afternoon, and even then they didnt arrive in time to stop a Minneapolis Police Department precinct from burning down that day. State officials say Walz hadnt gotten specific enough details about how Minneapolis planned to deploy the state troops. As a 24-year veteran of the Minnesota National Guard, Governor Walz knows how much planning goes into a successful mission, his office told the Minneapolis Star Tribune in 2020. Thats why he pushed the City of Minneapolis for details and a strategy. He ordered the Minnesota National Guard to start preparing Thursday morning which allowed them to deploy to both St. Paul and Minneapolis that evening, per the Mayors requests. He also faulted city leaders like Frey, calling their actions an abject failure. People look at the charred wreckage of a building destroyed during last week's rioting which was sparked by the death of George Floyd on June 2, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota ( Getty Images ) At the same time as he was beefing up the state response to the protests, he was also calling on fellow leaders to turn down the temperature, and criticizing Trump for tweeting when the looting starts, the shooting starts, which many interpreted as a coded threat to protesters of all stripes. In a moment that is so volatile, anything we do to add fuel to that fire is really, really challenging, Walz said at the time. The governor also leaned into an outside agitators narrative that some protest leaders felt delegitimized their complaints with racist policing in Minneapolis and elsewhere. Lets be very clear: The situation in Minneapolis is no longer in any way about the murder of George Floyd . It is about attacking civil society, instilling fear and disrupting our great cities, Walz said a few days into the protest, announcing that many of those arrested were from outside of Minneapolis Some Republican state leaders argued that it was Walzs liberal sympathies that slowed his decision to deploy the Guard, in what would eventually be the largest activation of state troops since WWII. It was obvious to me that he froze under pressure, under a calamity, as peoples properties were being burned down, State Senator Warren Limmer, a Republican, recently told The New York Times of the period. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and elected local leaders identified with the causes promoted by the demonstrators, causing them to lose sight of their responsibility to protect the public from criminal acts committed during the riots, a 2020 report from the state senate, then controlled by the GOP, found. A 2022 after-action review, commissioned by Minneapolis, found fault across the response to the protests, describing how police and fire officials neglected their own emergency plans and didnt set up an adequate command structure. They also found that Minneapolis police didnt keep any records of the chemical and riot control rounds they used on protests, injuring an estimated 45 people, despite policies requiring a use of force review for each such projectile. The report also described city leaders unfamiliar with the process for requesting National Guard troops. The information thats required by the Guard thats required to activate personnel, to put them into a civilian situation such as what was occurring in Minneapolis, the information simply wasnt there on the first day the request was made, according to the review. Others on the ground, meanwhile, say it was heavy-handed policing that escalated the protests in the first place. One of the citys employees has just murdered someone in the most brutal fashion, he said, and for you to then pretend like youre the victim and youre under siege, to fire mace and tear gas and rubber bullets in response to water bottles being thrown you have at that point 100 percent antagonized the situation, Minneapolis city council member Jeremiah Ellison said in 2020. After the protests subsided, Walz won praise for helping to pass multiple police and criminal justice reform packages in 2020 and 2023, which banned chokeholds, required police to intervene in use of excessive force, and reduced the states parole population. He also tapped his attorney general to prosecute Derek Chauvin, one of the officers involved in killing Floyd. The move was seen as an important reason for the cases success, which marked only the second time an on-duty Minneapolis police officer in the departments over 150-year history was charged with murder, and the first time involving an officer who is white. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz made their debut as the Democratic presidential ticket on Tuesday night, kicking off a campaign against Donald Trump and JD Vance in front of an electrified crowd in Philadelphia. The governor strode on stage at Temple Universitys Licouras Center on Tuesday with Harris just hours after she announced him as her running mate, with 91 days to go until the November election. Walzs appearance ended the closely-watched contest for the next potential vice president, landing on a seasoned Midwestern politician, military veteran and former school teacher with a progressive track record. Harris told the estimated 12,000 people in attendance that she set out to find a partner who can build this brighter future during her weeks-old campaign for the presidency. Her search for a running mate led her to a leader who can unite this nation and move us forward, someone who was a fighter for the middle class and a patriot who believes as I do the extraordinary promise of America, a promise of freedom, opportunity and justice not just for some but for all, she said. Second gentleman Doug Emhoff, Vice President Kamala Harris, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and his wife Gwen Walz greet supporters at a campaign rally in Philadelphia on August 6. ( Getty Images ) She told the crowd that she found such a leader in Walz, a 60-year-old former high school teacher who enlisted in the Army National Guard at 17 and served for 24 years, then spent more than two decades teaching and coaching football before entering politics. The vice president recounted how during the 1990s, a time when the federal government enacted a law banning any recognition of same-sex relationships, Walz served as a faculty adviser for a high school gay-straight alliance group because he knew the signal it would send to have a football coach get involved. Walz makes people feel they belong and inspires them to dream big, and thats the kind of vice president he will be, she added, and thats the kind of vice president America deserves. He represented Minnesota in the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2017 and is now in the middle of his second term as the states governor. He has had a recent meteoric rise on to the national stage with his no-nonsense assessment of the GOPs platform and the weird agenda behind it. Kamala Harris stifled a laugh as her running mate Tim Walz cracked a joke about his Republican counterpart JD Vance and his couch controversy ( Getty Images ) In the governors office, Walz ushered through a series of popular progressive policies, including protections for abortion rights and LGBT+ Minnesotans and a free breakfast and lunch program for public school children. Minnesotas strength comes from our values, our commitment to working together, to seeing past our differences, to always be willing to lend a helping hand, Walz told the crowd. Trump, however, doesnt know the first thing about service, because hes too busy serving himself, according to Walz. The former president weakens our economy to strengthen his own hand, mocks our laws, and sows chaos and division, and thats to say nothing of his record as president, said Walz, who said Trump froze during the Covid-19 crisis, drove the economy into the ground, and make no mistake: violent crime was up under Donald Trump. Thats not counting the crimes he committed, he added. Walz said he cant wait to debate his GOP counterpart JD Vance. Like most people who grew up in the heartland, JD studied at Yale, had his career funded by Silicon Valley billionaires, and then wrote a best seller trashing that community, he said, his voice carrying more than a hint of sarcasm. Tim Walz told a crowd in Philadelphia on August 6 that rival Donald Trump doesnt know a thing about service ( AP ) He added that what Vance represents is not what Middle America is, and drew some of the loudest cheers of the night when he told rallygoers: I cant wait to debate the guy ... if hes willing to get off the couch and show up. See what I did there? said Walz, making an apparent reference to an online joke that Vance wrote about having sex with a couch in his best-selling memor. Harriss announcement arrived roughly three months before Election Day and two weeks before the Democratic National Convention, where the Harris-Walz ticket will formally receive the partys nomination. After President Joe Biden ended his re-election campaign and backed Harris as the partys nominee, she quickly collected endorsements and delegate pledges to clinch the nomination, with record-breaking fundraising numbers that have eclipsed Republicans multi-million dollar war chest. A campaign spokesperson said the newly-christened Harris-Walz effort pulled in yet another $20m in the hours after the announcement. Walz quipped I see those old white guys when he spotted a member of Old White Men for Harris on the front row at the Philadelphia rally on August 6 ( AP ) The electic atmosphere recalled the boisterous rallies of the Obama-Biden campaigns in 2008 and 2012. It attracted a racially diverse crowd that included a pair of gray-haired white men sporting shirts declaring themselves Old White Men for Harris and Freedom. Its as clear as the T-shirt says, Bernie Strain told The Independent. Its about two old white men liking our Social Security, liking our Medicare, liking our freedom, liking our democracy well lose it if Trump gets elected. Strain said that his son, a Marine, had served a pair of tours at the base that was struck by Iran-backed militants in Iraq on Monday. Hes no loser and hes no sucker for serving in the United Statess service, and Trumps not going to call my son a loser or a sucker, he said. Not today, not tomorrow, not ever. Harris even drew a pair of former Republican members of Congress, including former Pennsylvania congressman James Greenwood, who told The Independent that he understood Biden had to stand down after his June 27 debate against Trump. Greenwood described the vibe after Biden stood down as like an electric charge. The excitement, the volunteers, the fundraising, everyones pretty excited, he said. Another ex-Republican House member from Illinois, Joe Walsh, said Walz was a great bet for Harris because the Minnesotan is like an everyman. I disagree with him on a lot of policy, but he's like a regular guy, and that's what Democrats have to have, he said. Andrew Feinberg reported from Philadelphia Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Nancy Pelosi was asked whether she thought JD Vance was a good running mate choice for Donald Trump and her laughter said it all. The Ohio senator was picked by Trump to join him on the Republican partys ticket just two days after the assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally in mid-July. Since then, he has been marred with controversy, including widespread backlash after his sexist comments branding Kamala Harris and other women childless cat ladies resurfaced. Democrats have also blasted Vance over his staunch opposition to abortion rights while rumors have swirled that Republicans fear Trump has made the wrong choice. Appearing on Sunday Morning with Lesley Stahl, the former House Speaker was asked whether she thinks the former president made a mistake with his vice presidential pick. Pelosi cracked up laughing and gave a tongue-in-cheek response. I think it was a great choice, she teased, before adding that Vance was menacing. JD Vance was selected as Trumps running mate on July 15 just two days after the attempt on the former presidents life ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) By contrast, Pelosi has been quick to praise Harris vice-presidential pick Tim Walz after the new Democratic presidential nominee announced her choice on Tuesday. Appearing on MSNBCs Morning Joe, Pelosi called Walz wonderful and quickly trashed Republican efforts to argue Walz is a progressive, left-wing Democratic figure. To characterize him as left is just so unreal, she said. Hes right down the middle. Hes a heartland of America Democrat. Pelosis support of the Harris-Walz ticket comes following reports that she played a key role in the behind-the-scenes push to get President Joe Biden to step aside from the race, following his disaster debate performance against Trump. Pelosi has since insisted that she did not call for the president to step down and denied claims that she had made phone calls to other Democrats to discuss the matter at the time. Nancy Pelosi said that shes respected the president for more than four decades ( Getty Images ) On Monday, when asked by CNNs Dana Bash about her seemingly fractured relationship with Biden, the former House speaker revealed that she hadnt spoken to him since he dropped out of the race on July 21. Is everything OK with your relationship? Bash asked. Youd have to ask him, Pelosi said, before adding: But I hope so. Pelosi added that she loves Biden and has respected him for over 40 years. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has been chosen to run alongside Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, and while current polling shows that most Americans arent familiar with him past polling shows he is popular with voters. Unlike Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance, Walz has decades of political experience, having first been elected to represent Minnesotas 1st district in the House of Representatives in 2006 with 52 percent of the vote. Despite his experience, an ABC News and Ipsos survey from July found that out of 1,200 Americans, most did not know who Walz was. Tracking 18 years of Walzs re-election and approval rating, can lend some early insight into what he brings to the Democratic ticket and how he compares to his counterpart on the Republican side. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who was tapped as Vice President Kamala Harriss running mate, is mostly unknown to the general public compared to Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance ( Getty Images ) From 2006 until 2016, Walzs constituents in Minnesotas first district re-elected him, often by a considerable majority every two years. When he ran for governor in 2018, he came away with 53.9 percent of Minnesotas vote the largest margin a Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party candidate won by in more than 30 years. In 2022, he was re-elected with 52 percent of the vote. His re-elections are often tied to a respectable approval rating. A January 2024 approval rating poll, conducted by local Minnesota news outlet KAAL-TV, found that 55 percent of respondents thought Walz was doing a good job. When another local outlet asked people who Harris should pick as her running mate, 22 percent indicated their governor would be a good choice. Those numbers are slightly higher than the ones Vance has seen from his state of Ohio though as a freshman senator, he does not have the same amount of polling information. Vance, a businessman and memoirist-turned-politician, initially won his seat in the Seante in 2022 after obtaining 53 percent of the vote. The Hillbilly Elegy author earned notability from his New York Times bestselling memoir, which later spurred a Netflix movie. An enthusiastic endorsement from Donald Trump also helped put his name on the map. A 2023 survey by Morning Consult found that he had a 44 percent approval rating and 34 percent disapproval rating from voters in his state. Vance has seen a decline in favorability polling since joining Donald Trumps ticket as his previous comments have come under the microscope ( Getty Images ) But voters across the nation seem less passionate about Vance as a vice president candidate. Polling from NPR, PBS and Marist College found that Vance has a 33 percent disapproval rating a drop from 28 percent when he was first made Trumps running mate. FiveThirtyEight, which compiles polling from across the nation and creates an average, puts Vance at a 40.6 percent unfavorable rating. Vance has found himself at the center of various strange controversies since becoming the Republican vice presidential nominee resurfaced anti-abortion comments, inconsistent feelings about Trump and allegations of becoming intimate with a couch may contribute to the publics opinion of him. Future polling will indicate how voters may feel about Walz joining Harriss ticket once the public gets to know the Minnesota governor. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Donald Trumps sentencing in his hush money trial wont be delayed by a long-shot lawsuit from Missouris Republican attorney general, whose challenge to a gag order against the former president was shot down by the Supreme Court. The challenge from Andrew Bailey argued that a gag order and a potential jail sentence against the Republican presidential nominee amounted to election interference and would deprive Missouri voters from hearing the candidate before they cast their ballots. Justices denied that challenge in a brief order on Monday. The order also noted that Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas would have allowed Bailey to at least file the suit, but would not have granted him his requested emergency relief. New York is working to hijack our national election and jail President Trump. Missourians absolutely have an interest in ensuring that does not happen, Bailey wrote on X. The fight is not over. After a seven-week trial in Manhattan, a jury convicted Trump on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records against him on May 30. He was found guilty of submitting fraudulent checks and invoices related to reimbursement payments to his former attorney Michael Cohen, who paid off adult film star Stormy Daniels in the weeks before Election Day in 2016 to avoid her politically damaging story about having sex with Trump from going public. Before the trial was underway, New York Justice Juan Merchan had issued a gag order which has been scaled back to prevent Trump from publicly attacking jurors, witnesses, court staff and staff with the Manhattan District Attorneys Office. He violated the order at least 10 times and was fined $10,0000, with a warning from the judge that any future violations could result in jail time. Bailey who took the rare step of filing a challenge directly to the Supreme Court, which has jurisdiction over interstate disputes argued in his case that radical progressives in New York are trying to rig the 2024 election by waging a direct attack on our democratic process. Donald Trump sits in a criminal courtroom next to his attorney Todd Blanche on May 21. The Supreme Court has shot down an attempt from a Trump ally to throw out a gag order in the case. ( via REUTERS ) He has also recently testified to Congress about what he called the politically motivated, legally specious, and corrupt prosecution of the former president and demanded that the Department of Justice turn over documents about Trumps prosecutions. The office of New York Attorney General Letitia James argued in briefs to the Supreme Court that Baileys argument consists of generalized and speculative grievances. Trump can already speak about all of the topics that Bailey claimed he is barred from, James wrote. His complaint is clearly and impermissibly seeking to further the individual interests of former President Trump, she added. Trumps attorneys have tried to overturn his conviction in the hush money case by pointing to the Supreme Courts presidential immunity ruling, which they argue should apply to the evidence used to convict him. Merchan is expected to issue a decision on those arguments by September 6, and Trump is set to be sentenced on September 18. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Human remains were found inside a giant crocodile suspected of killing a man fishing on vacation with his family in Australia. The remains are believed to be of David Hogbin, a 40-year-old man from New South Wales (NSW), who went missing after he fell from a steep bank on Saturday into the Annan River south of Cooktown in Queensland state and never surfaced. While further testing will be conducted to confirm the identity of the victim, the police have temporarily suspended the search for him, reported 7 News. Wildlife rangers on Monday killed a 4.9m (16ft) crocodile after locating it in a creek 4km upstream from where the man disappeared. The crocodile that allegedly took the man had distinctive scars on its snout similar to the ones witnesses reported seeing on a reptile in the vicinity of the disappearance, officials said. Wildlife officers have humanely euthanised a large crocodile that is believed to be responsible for the fatal attack on the Annan River, said the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation. The animal had markings on its snout that were consistent with it being the target animal. Wildlife officers are removing the animal from the creek and will hand it over to the Queensland Police Service. The victim was a tourist from NSW, Australias most populous state which lies beyond crocodiles tropical habitat. He had been on vacation with his family and was fishing at a location known as Crocodile Bend, which is popular among tourists who come to see these large reptiles. He was at the top of the bank and has fallen into the water, and its quite a large drop there, acting chief superintendent Shane Holmes told the media on Monday. I believe it was an accident when he fell into the water, he said. It was unclear whether the victims family or people nearby saw what happened. A spokesperson for Sonic Healthcare, a healthcare provider in Australia, condoled the death of Hogbin, reported ABC News. However, the nature of his association with the organisation is unclear. "We are deeply saddened by the news of this tragic event," she was quoted as saying. "This is a very challenging time for our team." His biography at Jewells Medical Centre said Hogbin was a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners after qualifying in 2021 and in spare time enjoyed four-wheel driving and camping with his wife and three boys. The tragedy followed a 12-year-old girls death in a crocodile attack on 2 July. She was swimming with her family in a creek in the neighboring Northern Territory when she was snatched. Her remains were found days later and wildlife rangers shot dead a 13ft crocodile. There have been three fatal crocodile attacks in Australia this year, close to the worst annual death toll on record of four in 2014. A 16-year-old boy was killed while swimming off a Queensland island on 18 April. The crocodile population has exploded across Australias tropical north since they became a protected species in the early 1970s. Hunting for their skins since the 1950s had almost wiped them out. The Department of Environment is also investigating online videos purportedly showing people feeding crocodiles as senior conservation officer Daniel Guymer described the behavior as risky and reckless. So any information and evidence in relation to alleged illegal activities, such as the unlawful feeding of a crocodile at that location, will be investigated by our wildlife officers, he said. Explaining the repercussions of stupid and dangerous behaviour, local wildlife carer Beau Peberdy told ABC News that it conditions an animal to come in to feed from people. People I think really need to start understanding that these animals are dangerous and doing silly or inappropriate things in and around the waters edge, it has severe consequences." For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} At least five US soldiers were reportedly wounded in a suspected rocket attack at a military base in Iraq amid growing fears of a war in the Middle East. Two Katyusha rockets were fired at the al-Asad airbase in western Iraq, two Iraqi security sources said. One Iraqi security source said the rockets fell inside the base. The attack follows the killings last week of a senior Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and Hamass top political leader in Iran in suspected Israeli strikes. Both groups are backed by Iran. It was unclear whether the attack was linked to threats by Iran to retaliate over the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. One of the US soldiers is seriously injured, reported Reuters. American defense officials said troops at the al-Asad air base were still assessing the damage. Meanwhile, the US has amped up its diplomatic efforts, using different channels to advise Iran against escalation in the region, suggesting that it is not in their interest, a State Department spokesperson said on Monday. Protesters, mainly Houthi supporters, hold firearms next to a poster of assassinated Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh, at the rally to show solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, in Sanaa, Yemen, 2 August 2024 ( Reuters ) Washington was engaged in intense diplomacy, pretty much around the clock" to help calm tensions, said secretary of state Antony Blinken. "All parties must take steps to ease tensions. Escalation is not in anyones interests. It will only lead to more conflict, more violence, more insecurity," he said. Haniyeh was assassinated in Tehran last week in an attack that drew threats from Iran which said it will punish Israel. The Israeli officials have not yet claimed responsibility for the killing. Iran backs Hamas, which is at war with Israel in Gaza, and also the Lebanese group Hezbollah, whose senior military commander Fuad Shukr was killed in an Israeli strike on Beirut last week. Smoke from Israeli bombardment billows in the background as a woman walks in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on 5 August 2024 ( AFP via Getty Images ) Mr Blinken in his remarks also called for parties to "break this cycle" of violence and agree to a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict, despite the killing of Haniyeh, who was a key figure in the negotiations between Israel and Hamas. "What it comes down to really is all parties finding ways to come to an agreement, not look for reasons to delay or to say no," Mr Blinken said. "It is urgent that all parties make the right choices in the hours and days ahead." US secretary of defense Lloyd Austin spoke with defense minister Yoav Gallant early on Tuesday. The two men agreed that the attack was a serious escalation that demonstrated Irans destabilizing role in the region. The Pentagon said Mr Austin reiterate unwavering US commitment to Israels security in the face of threats from Iran, Lebanese Hezbollah, and other Iran-aligned militia groups. Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks during the 2024 Australia-US Ministerial Consultations on Monday ( Reuters ) US president Joe Biden and vice president Kamala Harris were briefed by their national security team on the situation in the Middle East, including threats posed by Iran and its proxies to Israel and US service members, the White House said. They were also briefed about the attack on al-Asad airbase and discussed the US response. The Pentagon has said it will deploy additional fighter jets and navy warships to the Middle East, as Washington sought to bolster defenses following threats from Iran and its allies Hamas and Hezbollah. The US has been watching to see if Iran would make good on its vow to respond to the killing of Haniyeh two days ago in Tehran, one in a series of killings of senior figures in the Palestinian militant group as the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages. A rare ally of both the US and Iran, Iraq hosts 2,500 US troops and has Iran-backed militias linked to its security forces. It has witnessed escalating tit-for-tat attacks since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in October, with the US turning to Iraqi prime minister Shia al-Sudani to help decrease regional tensions by helping convince Iran to temper its response. Mr Blinken also spoke with Qatari prime minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Egyptian foreign minister Badr Abdelatty. "One of the points of the engagements that we have had is to urge countries to pass messages to Iran and urge countries to make clear to Iran that it is very much not in their interests to escalate this conflict, that it is very much not in their interest to launch another attack on Israel," said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller. Additional reporting from the agencies For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Sir Keir Starmer has joined Joe Biden and allied world leaders in a call for Iran to stand down amid ongoing tension in the Middle East. The prime minister also spoke to Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday night, warning him of a serious risk of miscalculation, Downing Street said. It comes as Israel braces itself for a major attack with Iran vowing retaliation against Israel after the death of the leader of Hamas in Tehran last month. The US has also sent a nuclear-powered guided-missile submarine to the Middle East while Israels air force has suspended travel abroad for its service personnel. The tensions increase as the US and its allies push for Israel and Hamas to agree to a ceasefire agreement over the war in Gaza. On Monday, Sir Keir held a 30-minute call with Mr Pezeshkian, asking him to refrain from attacking Israel and saying that war was not in anyones interest. The No 10 spokesperson said: The prime minister said that he was deeply concerned by the situation in the region and called on all parties to de-escalate and avoid further regional confrontation. There was a serious risk of miscalculation and now was the time for calm and careful consideration, the prime minister said. He called on Iran to refrain from attacking Israel, adding that war was not in anyones interests. The phone call followed a day of talks among western powers, with joint statements from British, American and European leaders urging de-escalation in the Middle East amid fears Iran could launch an attack on Israel this week. Sir Keir, along with Mr Biden, German chancellor Olaf Scholz, French president Emmanuel Macron and Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni urged all parties to resume peace talks this week. In a joint statement they said: We, the leaders of the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy discussed the situation in the Middle East. We expressed our full support for ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions and reach a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza. We endorsed the joint call from President Biden, President Sisi of Egypt, and Amir Tamim of Qatar to renew talks later this week with an aim to concluding the deal as soon as possible, and stressed there is no further time to lose. All parties must live up to their responsibilities. Palestinians living in the Hamad area of Khan Yunis in Gaza as the war rages on many are struggling to survive in the difficult conditions ( Getty ) In addition, unfettered delivery and distribution of aid is needed. We expressed our support for the defense of Israel against Iranian aggression and against attacks by Iran-backed terrorist groups. We called on Iran to stand down its ongoing threats of a military attack against Israel and discussed the serious consequences for regional security should such an attack take place. The deal endorsed by the US, Egyptian and Qatar leaders is for a three-phase framework to demand Israel withdraw its troops from Gaza, Hamas return hostages to their families and the safe and effective distribution of humanitarian aid. It aims to bring to an end the conflict that started when Hamas launched the surprise attack on 7 October last year. President Biden ignored shouted questions about negotiations over a ceasefire in Gaza as he returned to the White House on Monday ( EPA ) Israel claims some 1,200 people were killed and 251 taken hostage following the attack. The Palestinian death toll is thought to be approaching 40,000 as a result of conflict in Gaza. Iran-backed Hezbollah militants, based in Lebanon, have traded rocket fire with Israel over recent weeks and Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Irans capital at the end of July. At least 80 people died on Saturday when an Israeli air strike hit a school-turned-shelter in Gaza City, according to Palestinian health authorities. Israel claimed it had hit a Hamas command centre at the venue, but Hamas has denied it had a base there. US vice-president Kamala Harris said on Saturday: Yet again, far too many civilians have been killed. Sign up to our free weekly IndyTech newsletter delivered straight to your inbox Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Elon Musk has announced that he will shut down the San Francisco headquarters of X less than two years after taking over the company. The tech billionaire claimed he had no choice but to close the iconic offices that have been home to the social media firm for more than a decade. As part of his overhaul of the company, previously called Twitter, Mr Musk plans to create an everything app that allows users to also send and receive payments. It is impossible to operate in San Francisco if youre processing payments, he wrote in a post on X. Thats why Stripe, Block (CashApp) and others had to move. Mr Musk appears to be referring to financial regulations in the state, though Stripe cited a lack of available office space in San Francisco as its primary reason for leaving the city in 2019. In an email to staff, first reported by the New York Times, X chief executive Linda Yaccarino announced that the offices will be closed over the next few weeks. This is an important decision that impacts many of you, but it is the right one for our company in the long term, she wrote. The move comes less than a month after the worlds wealthiest person announced that SpaceX would be moving its headquarters to Texas, having previously moved his other company Tesla there in 2021 over frustration about Californian laws. He described a new gender identity law as the final straw, as it will prevent schools in the state from informing parents of their decision to change their name or pronouns. Mr Musk is estranged from his transgender daughter Vivian Henna Wilson, who applied to legally remove her fathers surname in 2022. Because of this law and the many others that preceded it, attacking both families and companies, SpaceX will now move its HQ from Hawthorne, California, to Starbase, Texas, he wrote in a post in July. I did make it clear to Governor Newsom about a year ago that laws of this nature would force families and companies to leave California to protect their children. The controversial billionaire has also moved his personal residence to Texas, which has more favourable tax laws compared to California. X employees currently based at the San Francisco headquarters will be moved to offices in San Jose and Palo Alto, according to Ms Yaccarinos internal memo. Mr Musk has previously indicated that the new headquarters of X will eventually be set up in Austin, Texas. Sign up to our free weekly IndyTech newsletter delivered straight to your inbox Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy X, formerly known as Twitter, has been repeatedly accused of helping inflame tensions in the UK as the country is rocked by riots and violent unrest. The sites misinformation policies and technologies are in the spotlight as critics argue that it has allowed inflammatory and false posts to be boosted on its platform, and could help encourage further disorder. Even before Elon Musk took over the site in late 2022, when it was still called Twitter, the company was often criticised for its failure to properly police misleading and provocative posts. In response, it launched a range of tools that were intended to take down problematic posts and boost those that shared good information. Mr Musk has weakened or removed some of those protections in the time since. And experts say that the decision to do so has helped spread misinformation on a platform that was already not free of it. But that is a reason to hope, too: there are features, some of which are still present on the site, that could be used to limit the spread of such content. Here are the tools that X has to moderate the posts on the site and how they could be brought back. Verification One of Elon Musks first big moves on what was then Twitter was to remove the verification ticks that used to make clear that a persons identity had been verified. Instead, he asked users to pay to get the blue tick. The incentive for Mr Musk was obvious: getting people to pay up for the ticks generated more revenue, the blue tick had become a prestigious symbol that people would pay for, and that prestige led to some resentment among users against those who did have one. But the effect was broader than that. It moved the site from having an identity-based verification system to one based on paying, which meant that there was no real way of knowing which accounts on the site were to be trusted. Whats more, Mr Musk promised those paying for the verification tick that their posts would be boosted on Twitter appearing higher up in the list of replies, for instance. That meant that people were able to pay both to look legitimate and have their posts seen by more users. Anyone looking to spread misinformation could therefore by a service that would allow them to push it more readily. While that new paid-for blue tick was bought by many people who did not intend to use it to spread false narratives, it was a boon to those who wanted to. Fact checking When Mr Musk bought Twitter, it was early in its work on what was then known as Birdwatch. Just as he renamed Twitter, Mr Musk changed its name to Community Notes thought it serves much the same purpose. That purpose is to crowdsource fact checking on peoples posts. Users are able to report a given tweet either for being misleading or outright false, or just lacking in context and propose a note that should be attached to it to give further information. Other users are then able to vote on those annotations, and the winners will be shown alongside tweets. Usually, they give references to authoritative sources that make clear that a post is false or needs further information. Elon Musk has continued to boost this feature, even as it has occasionally been applied on his own tweets. But some users complain that it is slow and that even when an annotation is added, it is much harder to see than the original post. Safety staff Another of Mr Musks early moves was to fire many of Twitters staff. That meant that the company lost those who worked in its Trust and Safety team. Those worked in a variety of ways: engineers who found technical solutions to harassment, for instance, and staff who checked users reports of posts that violated its rules. Those staff are no longer at X, and so those initiatives are gone. That means that users wait longer for their posts to be checked, and that they are less likely to be taken down. With that has become a weakened enforcement of the rules. Xs terms do still rule out much of the behaviour that was previously banned on the site including restrictions on posting incitement to hatred about protected groups but the fact that there are fewer people to enforce it means that those posts are more likely to stay up for longer. Regulation The European Union has been particularly critical of Elon Musk even before this week. It has pointed to a range of problems with the site from the misleading blue ticks to a lack of fact checking and suggested that it could punish further failures with fines. Mr Musk has reacted angrily to censure from the EU. The DSA is misinformation, he posted on X. This could spread more broadly through what has been called the Brussels effect, or the way that new EU rules tend to echo out of Europe and change the landscape in much of the rest of the world. The UK has already passed some of its own online regulations, for instance, and similar powers could come into force in other parts of the world. That could either force X to take on some of the recommendations of experts about stemming the spread of misinformation or it could lead to yet more fines being imposed on the company for failing to do so. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A norovirus outbreak on the P&O cruise ship Ventura affected over 500 passengers during a May 2024 voyage from Southampton to the Canary Islands. The outbreak of the highly contagious gastrointestinal illness was so severe that the ship had to be deep cleaned when it arrived back in the UK. At the time, P&O Cruises said that 0.64 per cent of passengers were symptomatic on Wednesday 22 May, but failed to confirm how many suffered at the viruss peak. It has now been revealed that the illness spread so fast that the height of the outbreak saw 519 cases among about 4,200 total passengers and crew, or about 12.3 per cent, according to a BBC Freedom of Information request. Ventura has a capacity for 3,078 passengers, but under 3,000 were reported to be on board alongside around 1,200 crew members. In a bid to prevent the illness spreading on the 14-night cruise around the Canary Islands, including stops in Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote, passengers that were affected by sickness and diarhoea were asked to isolate in their cabins. While docked in Tenerife on 17 May, six nights into the fortnight trip, an enhanced sanitation of the ship was carried out but it failed to completely halt the highly contagious virus. Back in Southampton at the end of the cruise on 25 May, the Ventura underwent fogging where disinfectant is sprayed into sealed rooms, specifically targeting bathrooms and food preparation areas. It had been due to depart for a cruise around Spain and Portugal later that day, but passengers were asked to arrive four hours later to allow for more cleaning time. The Venturas outbreak came just one month after two separate norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships in April 2024. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 150 passengers on board US cruises ships suffered diarrhoea and vomiting as a result. The health agency said that 94 of 2,532 passengers on a Princess Cruises ship and 67 of 1,993 passengers onboard a Royal Caribbean ship reported sickness during those voyages. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A Delta flight was forced to turn around on a cross-Atlantic journey after "encountering lightning." The flight, Delta 112, was on its way to Rome from the Logan International Airport in Boston on Sunday evening when the crew reported there had been a lightning strike following its departure, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The plane turned around over the Atlantic, and headed back to Boston following the strike. The flight was intended to be an approximately seven-hour journey. A Delta spokesperson told the New York Post that the plane was diverted back to Boston "out of an abundance of caution" following the strike. The plane landed in Boston around 7:20pm local time and was met by fire trucks on the tarmac, according to WCVB. Boston emergency medical staff confirmed to the broadcaster that no passengers or crew were injured. The flight landed safely and without further incident, the Delta spokesperson said. A passenger on the flight, Donna Pilat, told ABC News that she heard a "small pop" during the flight and described the plane having a rough landing on its return to Logan International Airport. "We could smell burning rubber from the wheels," she told the outlet. "They had to tow the plane to a hanger and thats why we didnt get our luggage for hours. Long night but could have been worse." Delta said it was working to reroute passengers to their final destinations "as quickly as possible" and apologized for the delay. Passengers told WBZ-TV that they had to stay on the tarmac for hours because too many planes were landing. Other who disembarked in Boston were forced to spend the night in the city. "The safety of our customers and people remains Deltas most important priority," Delta said in a statement. Pilat told ABC News that the delay was going to cost her a tour of the Vatican, but said she was still looking forward to taking a cruise through the Mediterranean when she arrives in Italy. The FAA is investigating the incident, but also noted that commercial jetliners are built to withstand lightning strikes. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A tourist cruise ship has rescued 77 migrants found overnight in a sailboat in distress far off the coast of Greece. A passing Maltese-flagged cargo ship found the boat 112 nautical miles (129 miles) southwest of the town of Pylos in the early hours of Tuesday, the coast guard said. In an operation coordinated by Greeces search and rescue authority, all those on board were picked up by a cruise ship sailing in the area and were being transported to the southern Greek port town of Kalamata, authorities said. There were no reports of any people missing. No information was immediately available on the nationalities of those on the sailboat or where they had set out from. Greece lies on one of the most popular migration routes for people fleeing conflict and poverty in the Middle East, Africa and Asia, and seeking to enter the European Union. Many attempt to make the short crossing from the Turkish coast to nearby eastern Greek islands in small dinghies. But with a crackdown on attempts to enter the country illegally, some prefer to skirt around Greece altogether and head directly to Italy in larger boats such as sailing or fishing boats, starting out either from southern Turkey or north Africa. open image in gallery Survivors of a shipwreck stand outside a warehouse at the port in Kalamata town, about 240 kilometers (150miles) southwest of Athens, Greece, Thursday, June 15, 2023 ( Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Last year, a massively overcrowded fishing trawler carrying an estimated 500-750 people sank off the coast of Pylos as it headed from Libya to Italy, in one of the Mediterraneans deadliest migrant shipwrecks. Only 104 people survived the sinking of the Adriana, and just over 80 bodies were recovered. The rest went down with the trawler in one of the deepest parts of the Mediterranean, making recovery efforts essentially impossible. The Greek coast guard came under intense criticism for its actions concerning the Adriana, which had been sailing in international waters but within Greeces area of responsibility for search and rescue operations. A coast guard patrol boat and several merchant ships had been shadowing the Adriana for hours when it sank, but were unable to evacuate the passengers and prevent the massive loss of life. Survivors have said the Adriana went down during a botched coast guard attempt to tow it, which Greek officials strongly deny. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Souvenirs depicting the drug lord Pablo Escobar could be banned in Colombia. The move has been put forward by the nations congress and is backed by those who believe the country should shed its image of mafia bosses. However, it is criticized by vendors who sell his merchandise to tourists from around the world. The bill proposes fines of up to $170 for vendors who sell merchandise that depicts Escobar and other convicted criminals, and would also enable police to fine those who wear t-shirts, hats and other garments that exalt the infamous drug lord. These items are revictimizing people who were victims of murderers, said Cristian Avendano, a representative from Colombias Green Party who drafted the bill. We must protect the right of the victims to recover...and find other symbols for our country. The proposal has been widely covered by newspapers in Colombia, where Escobar is seen as a murderous figure, linked to one of the most violent periods in the nations history. At the same time, the drug traffickers image is also heavily commercialized by locals who are eager to cash in on the growing fascination with the drug lord, among some tourists from North America, Europe and other Latin American countries. open image in gallery Tourists buy souvenirs of the late drug lord Pablo Escobar, featured as a statue with a sign that says one will be charged for taking photos inside a store in Doradal, Colombia, Feb. 5, 2021 ( AP ) Souvenir vendors in Bogotas historic La Candelaria neighborhood said they were opposed to the initiative, which has been criticized for attempting to limit freedom of speech. I think its a dumb law, said Rafael Nieto, a street vendor who sells magnets, and t-shirts with Pablo Escobars face on them, as well as more traditional souvenirs. Nieto said he would stop selling Escobar merchandise if the bill is approved, to avoid problems with police. But he added that members of Colombias Congress should instead focus their energies on lowering the citys crime rate, and let him carry on with his business. Many people make a living from this Nieto said pointing at a t-shirt that shows a copy of Pablo Escobars Colombian ID card. Its not a trend that I came up with Nieto added. The Mexicans, the Costa Ricans, the Americans, are always asking me for Escobar merchandise. Another street vendor, who asked to be identified only as Lorena, said that she has also stocked up on items that depict the drug dealer, such as shot glasses, and magnets, because it is what international tourists are demanding, along with souvenirs depicting coca leaves. When you work as a vendor, you try to sell what is most popular, Lorena said. Everyone has their own personality, and if there are people who like a murderer, or a drug trafficker, well, thats their choice. open image in gallery ( AFP/Getty ) Escobar ordered the murders of an estimated 4000 people in the 1980s and early 1990s, as he established the powerful Medellin cartel and amassed a $3 billion fortune that made him one of the worlds richest people at the time. The drug lord was gunned down in 1993 on a rooftop in Medellin, as he tried to escape from the search block, a unit of more than 300 police officers backed by DEA agents that was dedicated exclusively to capture him. Escobars exploits and his crimes are well known in Colombia. But in recent years, his global fame has resurfaced thanks to a Colombian soap opera and a Netflix series that depicts the drug lord as a ruthless, but shrewd mafioso, who defies corrupt American and Colombian authorities trying to close in on him. Merchandise bearing the drug dealers face, his ID Card, or famous slogans that are attributed to Escobar sells frequently at souvenir stands across the country, while in his hometown of Medellin, agencies lead visitors on historical tours that stop at sites related to Escobars life. Representative Avendano, said it was time for Colombia to shed its image as a country of mafia bosses. We cannot continue to praise these people, and act as if their crimes were acceptable, he said. There are other ways for businesses to grow and other ways to sell Colombia to the world. Avendano said that his bill will call on the Colombian government to investigate how many people make a living from selling Escobar merchandise, and how much the market is worth. The bill must go through four debates to be approved by Congress, Avendaio explained, adding that if the legislation passes, there will be a transition period where government officials work with souvenir vendors to find new ways to market Colombia. Last year the South American nation refused a request to trademark the Pablo Escobar name, filed by his widow and children, to sell what they described as educational and leisure products. In its decision, Colombias Superintendency for Commerce said that a Pablo Escobar brand would be permissive of violence, and threaten public order. The General Court of the European Union also denied a similar trademark request by Escobars family earlier this year, arguing that it went against public policy and accepted principles of morality. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thanks for signing up to the Simon Calders Travel email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Several countries have issued safety warnings to their citizens in the UK due to ongoing anti-immigration protests and riots. Nigeria, Malaysia, Kenya, Australia, Sweden, Indonesia, the UAE, India and Hong Kong have all sent out alerts, advising their nationals living in or visiting the UK to stay away from demonstrations. Hong Kong has become the latest of nine countries to issue a warning to citizens travelling to the UK following days of violent riots. The HK governments Security Bureau issued a warning saying: Since late July 2024, protests and riots occurred across the United Kingdom, resulting in violent clashes. Hong Kong residents who intend to visit the country or are already there should monitor the situation, exercise caution, attend to personal safety, avoid large gatherings of people and pay attention to local announcements, the advice says. Earlier, officials at the High Commission of India in London said they were closely monitoring the situation as they advised visitors from India to stay vigilant and exercise due caution while travelling in the UK. Australia issued a similar warning and advised travellers to avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the potential for disruption and violence as it urged people to monitor the media for information and updates. Far-right riots rocked cities across the UK last weekend ( PA Wire ) Follow our live coverage of riots across the UK. A post on the Embassy of Sweden website on 6 August told Swedes in Great Britain: Since the beginning of August, riots have taken place in several British cities, motivated by xenophobia. It is strongly recommended to avoid large crowds. The UAE embassy in the UK also urged citizens to exercise the highest level of caution and take the necessary precautions in light of the unstable security situation. Elsewhere, Kenyas High Commission in London warned Kenyans residing in the UK on Twitter/X to stay away from the protest areas and remain vigilant. A travel alert by Nigerias Ministry of Foreign Affairs, based in the capital Abuja, also stated that there is an increased risk of violence and disorder occasioned by the recent riots in the UK, noting that the violence has assumed dangerous proportions. It went on: Demonstrations by far right and other extra-parliamentary groups in parts of the UK in recent weeks have been large, and in some instances unruly. The High Commission of Malaysia in London posted a message online on Sunday which read: Malaysians residing in or travelling to the United Kingdom are urged to stay away from protest areas, remain vigilant and follow the latest updates and guidance provided by local authorities. It also strongly encouraged people to register with it to receive timely information and assistance. The Indonesian embassy in London also issued a warning, advising its citizens in the UK to avoid large crowds and increase their vigilance. Violence has broken out in several towns and cities in England and Northern Ireland following the killing of three young girls at a dance class in Southport last week (29 July). Almost 500 people have been arrested after far-right riots rocked Liverpool, Bristol, Manchester, Hull, Belfast, Stoke and other cities across the UK this week. For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast Hollywood heartthrob Josh Hartnett has opened up about why he now enjoys living in English countryside. The actor, who shot to fame worldwide in the early 2000s after appearing in blockbuster films Pearl Harbour and Black Hawk Down, is back on the big screen after previously quitting Hollywood for a quieter family life. He appeared on ITVs Lorraine on Tuesday (6 August) to discuss his new film, the psychological filler Trap. Christine Lampard asked the 46-year-old about his home in Hampshire, which he shares with wife Tamsin Egerton and their four children. The presenter asked: You call England your home now, does it feel like home? Hartnett replied: It was not something I anticipated for my life, but I am absolutley delighted to be part of the English countryside lifestyle now. A wildfire burning in San Bernadino, California, burned several homes on Monday, 5 August, prompting the evacuation of residents. As of 7am local time on Tuesday, the Edgehill fire had burned 54 acres and was 75 per cent contained according to San Bernadino County Fire officials. It began in the 3300 block of Beverly Drive on Little Mountain about 2:40 p.m. Homes have been destroyed and a familys three dogs were killed in the blaze, NBC Los Angeles reported. Footage from KABC showed a vehicle and buildings engulfed in flames. An elderly man was punched by a robbery suspect after his phone was stolen at a fast food outlet in Houston, Texas, on 10 July, authorities said. Newly-released CCTV footage shows a man waiting at the counter of the establishment located at the 9900 block of Beechnut, in Houston, Texas. Houston Police Department said the man picked up the 71-year-old complainant's device, placed it into his pocket, and walked out of the restaurant. The complainant confronted the suspect, who denied taking the mobile phone, outside before being punched and falling to the ground, officers added. Houston Police have appealed for any witnesses to come forward with information relating to this incident, During a live broadcast in Birmingham on Monday, 5 August, Sky News communities correspondent Becky Johnson was surrounded by thugs wearing masks. People appeared on the streets after word had spread among Birminghams muslim community that the far right were planning a rally in the city. After speaking live from Birmingham, the Sky crew were then followed by a man wearing a balaclava and holding a knife. The man stabbed the tyre of their Sky broadcast van but did not damage the vehicle so the crew was able to drive away. Filmmaker David Lynch has said he will never retire as he revealed he has been diagnosed with emphysema. In a post on X, the 78-year-old Twin Peaks creator said he developed the lung condition after years of smoking, but he had quit the habit two years ago. Emphysema is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) which is caused by damage to the air sacs in the lungs, according to the NHS website. Lynch wrote: Ladies and Gentlemen, yes, I have emphysema from my many years of smoking. I have to say that I enjoyed smoking very much, and I do love tobacco the smell of it, lighting cigarettes on fire, smoking them but there is a price to pay for this enjoyment, and the price for me is emphysema. I have now quit smoking for over two years. Recently I had many tests and the good news is that I am in excellent shape except for emphysema. I am filled with happiness, and I will never retire. I want you all to know that I really appreciate your concern. Love, David. The clarification came following questions about whether Lynch would direct again after he discussed the diagnosis in a new interview with Sight & Sound magazine. According to reports, he told the outlet: Ive gotten emphysema from smoking for so long and so Im homebound whether I like it or not. It would be very bad for me to get sick, even with a cold. 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 Discussing his directing future with his health condition, he reportedly told the magazine: I would do it remotely if it comes to it I wouldnt like that so much. Born in Missoula, Montana, Lynch has been Oscar nominated four times including two nods for 1980s The Elephant Man for directing and adapted screenplay, and two more directing nominations for 1986s Blue Velvet and 2001s Mulholland Drive. Some of his other directing credits included 1984s Dune, 1990s Wild At Heart, 1997s Lost Highway, 1999s The Straight Story and 2006s Inland Empire. In 2019, he received an honorary Academy Award which recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry but have not yet won an Oscar. Lynch co-created the mystery drama Twin Peaks with Mark Frost which ran for two series between 1990 and 1991. He also returned to develop and write Twin Peaks: The Return, which was released in 2017. Shopkeeper left counting cost after business targeted for second timeRiot police were deployed in Sandy Row and Donegall Road areasPSNI attacked with petrol bombs while petrol poured over a police Land Rover and set alightAttempt was made to re-torch a supermarket Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Police deployed to the Sandy Row area of south Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Police deployed to the Sandy Row area of south Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) A Stormont minister has called for an end to violence in Belfast after police fired baton rounds as they came under attack during another night of disorder. A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour. At one point last night, some rioters attempted to re-torch a supermarket in Sandy Row. However, riot police extinguished the fire with water and fire extinguishers. The business had been seriously damaged on Saturday evening. This morning, its owner sat outside, surveying the latest damage. He was too upset to speak. Some people arrived at the scene to show their support for the owner. Belfast supermarket owner surveys damage to his business after more violence on Monday night Meanwhile, a man in his 50s was taken to hospital after he was seriously assaulted in the Donegall Road and Oban Street area. Police said his attackers stamped on his head as members of the public attempted to shield him from further attack and said his condition in hospital remains serious and the attack is being treated as a hate crime. Riot police and a police drone were deployed in the Sandy Row and the Donegall Road areas as violence broke out following a weekend of disruption in the area. Speaking to BBC NI Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said there is no justification for the continuing disruption. "I want to condemn it in the strongest possible terms and I also want to send my thoughts to those most affected, he said. "There is never any justification for this type of violent behaviour. There is no justification for attack on the police it needs to stop and it needs to stop straight away. 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 More than 200 people were involved, as the PSNI were attacked with petrol bombs, bricks, and bottles by a crowd which included youths wearing masks. The large crowd also gathered outside the Islamic centre until the early hours of the morning. Police sources told the Belfast Telegraph that two water cannons lent to the Garda have been sent to Belfast. They were not deployed last night, however they may be in operation from today. Challenged about whether he thought the levels of immigration in Northern Ireland were influencing the disorder over recent days, Mr Lyons added: Certainly there are additional pressures n public services in some parts of Northern Ireland. That doesn't mean there is any justification for violence. "If you have concerns and want to express those concerns there are legitimate peaceful and democratic ways in which you can do that. "What I don't think we should do is downplay how some people are feeling about this issue. When we try to dismiss the legitimate concerns of people it adds to the frustration many people feel. 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 Shortly before 10.30pm, the PSNI advised the public to avoid the Donegall Road and Sandy Row areas. In a statement today, the PSNI said: In a second night of rioting and disorder, mainly in the areas of Donegall Road and Sandy Row, police officers came under sustained attack over a number of hours with multiple petrol bombs, heavy masonry and bricks thrown in their direction. "Petrol was also poured over a police landrover and set alight, thankfully the occupants of the vehicle were not physically harmed and remained on duty. "Earlier in the evening, a protest and counter-protest involving approximately 40 people had formed in the area of Ormeau Avenue around 5pm. Officers attended to ensure an appropriate and proportionate policing response. A report was then made of criminal damage to a family home in the Pandora Street area with windows broken. A small group gathered at the junction of University Road/Bradbury Place before moving to Donegall Road. However, larger crowds gathered with some masked rioters mounting attacks on officers. During the course of the serious disorder, authorised officers discharged two Attenuating Energy Projectiles (AEPs) with one rioter struck on the hand. Attempts were also made to torch a supermarket which had been targeted on Saturday night. Officers were able to douse this small fire before it developed. 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 A number of nearby roads were closed by police to ensure the safety of the public and local residents, and to enable officers to deal with the situation and disorder safely. All roads were subsequently reopened. Temporary PSNI assistant chief constable Melanie Jones said: This disorder, violence and destruction has no place in Belfast or anywhere else across the streets of Northern Ireland. We are engaging with groups that have been affected by this disorder and we are gathering evidence, CCTV and other footage to progress criminal investigations. We are working at pace to identify offenders and make arrests. We are determined to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. Anyone who has information or who can help identify those responsible is asked to contact us on 101. Saturdays anti-immigration protest, which was met by a counter-demonstration at city hall, moved to the surrounding streets as some of those involved tried to make their way to the Belfast Islamic Centre in the south of the city, with businesses attacked and a cafe set alight. Three police officers were injured during the disorder and four members of the public reported that they were assaulted. Yesterday morning, four men appeared in court over their alleged roles in Saturdays unrest. All were denied bail. Yesterday evening, an anti-immigration protest at the Clayton Hotel in Belfast city centre ended with no reports of violence. The protest was set to begin at 5pm with only around 15 protesters arriving shortly before 6pm and they only stayed for around 20 minutes. An Afghan man who said he feared he would be sent back to Afghanistan when his landlord texted him about having his papers checked has won 10,000 for what a tribunal termed blatant racism. The landlord apologised for the text and told the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) that it was sent in frustration and he was not proud of it. The tribunal heard evidence that he did not know the tenant had a family of six staying in the two-bedroom property. Irish News What is the LNG row all about and why is Mark Ruffalo in the thick of it? The funeral of Jordan Ronan Pakenham, who died following a fatal assault in Tallaght, has heard how he was the golden boy of his family who could light up a room. The 20-year-old sustained a fatal knife wound during an incident which occurred in the early hours of Friday, July 26, in the Drumcairn Estate in Tallaght. Patrick Murphy (36) of Drumcairn Parade, Tallaght appeared before Judge Michael Ramsey on Saturday, July 27, where he was charged with his murder. Mr Ronan Pakenham was remembered as the apple of his mothers eye during a mass held in St Aidans Church, Brookfield this morning, where the young man was described as someone who could light up a room. Those gathered heard that Mr Ronan Pakenham was someone with a heart of gold who had unconditional love for his mum, partner and young child to be. "Jordan only saw good in others, no matter who you were, what you were or where you cam from, whether you were old or young, he would still have a word for you, said the local priest, who celebrated the mass. "Jordan was unique. He was a kind, loving person and only wished kindness and goodness for all. He was described as someone who had a great sense of humour and could light up a room. "He was, as his family said to me yesterday, a golden boy. The light of the world for the family. His mother, Sabrina, paid tribute to her son, who she called her golden boy and told those gathered that he will be forever missed by those who knew and loved him. Mourners heard that the 20-year-old made an impact on everyone he met and his girlfriend, Lauren, changed his life completely. The pair, who were expecting a baby together, kept in constant contact even if they were apart for five minutes, she said. Mr Ronan Pakenham had a kind word for everyone he met, young or old, mourners heard today. In his death notice, Mr Ronan Pakenham, who was also known as Pako, was remembered as the beloved and cherished son of Stephen and Sabrina, the much loved brother of Leah, Sophia, Jamie and Senan and adored partner of Lauren. He was described as the already much loved dad of expected baby Jordan. A small baby hat was brought to the altar during his funeral mass this morning as a tribute to his role as father-to-be. Fishing rods and a framed photo of his late friend Kyle Finnegan Hooper were also brought to the altar as symbols of his life. His family are from the Rossfield area of Tallaght, and tributes were paid to Mr Ronan Pakenham as a doting uncle and devoted grandson, who will be "forever loved and very sadly missed by his heartbroken family and wide circle of friends. Ireland is on course to record 200 road deaths for the first time in almost 15 years as fatalities this year have soared to 115, with two people dying in the first four days of this month. Road deaths in July were the worst for a decade, with road-safety campaigners fearful that August, traditionally the deadliest month on Irish roads, will see the country surge towards its highest annual fatality rate since 2010. James McNeive (28), a teacher from Knock, Co Mayo, became the 114th person to lose their life on Irish roads this year when the van he was driving was in a collision with a lorry on Sunday morning. A cyclist in his 60s also died in south Dublin on Sunday afternoon. There were no other vehicles involved in the incident. It happened at around 2pm on the Ticknock Road in Ticknock, Co Dublin. The man was taken to St Vincents University Hospital where he was pronounced dead. A roads enforcement campaign over the August bank holiday weekend detected almost 1,000 people speeding while 127 people were arrested for driving under the influence of an intoxicant. Gardai have said that, overall, there has been a good level of compliance among road users, although more than 100 drivers have been arrested for driving while intoxicated. Garda inspector Peter Gilsenan, of the Meath and Westmeath Roads Policing Unit, said the biggest concern for gardai continues to be speeding. While we have seen generally good levels of compliance at garda checkpoints across the country, we have still detected people driving at unacceptable speeds and partaking in extremely dangerous driving behaviour such as drug and drink driving. Drink driving is still pretty much ahead but drug driving is coming up, particularly with a younger generation, even though we can see it at every age group. But really and truly, I cant say there is an age bracket where we havent detected somebody for either drink or drug driving, he said. Insp Gilsenan added that mobile phone use while driving remains a big problem, with an increase of 8pc in detections compared to the same period last year. We ask motorists to put down their mobile phone, put it in the glove box, its not going to cause you a great problem for five to 10 minutes to get somewhere safe or to the next filling station when youre taking a break to look at your mobile phone, Insp Gilsenan added. Ireland last recorded in excess of 200 deaths in 2010 when 212 people died in traffic collisions. The number of deaths incrementally decreased to 130 by 2021, the lowest number of road deaths since records began in 1959, albeit during the Covid-19 pandemic when road travel was much curtailed. If Ireland records 200 road deaths by December 31, it will represent a 54pc increase in fatalities in the space of just three years. The 115 deaths so far this year include 45 drivers, 24 passengers, 20 pedestrians, 16 motorcyclists, seven pedal cyclists and three e-scooter users. There has been alarm over the high number of motorcyclists, pedal cyclists and e-scooter users who have died this year. Three e-scooter users, all teenagers, have died over the past six weeks alone. Promoting Awareness Responsibility and Care on our roads (Parc) founder, Susan Gray, admitted that July had been a shocking month for road safety and pleaded for enhanced measures to improve road safety. Parc officials including Mrs Gray and Noel Clancy, who lost his wife and daughter in a road tragedy, met with junior transport minister James Lawless last week to highlight their concerns and to demand greater resources for the gardai and tougher enforcement of road safety regulations. We desperately need to get the road-safety message across and ensure that road-safety regulations are rigorously enforced, she said. Mrs Gray, who lost her husband, Steve, in a collision involving an unaccompanied learner driver also called for stricter enforcement of road-safety regulations and urgent closure of all regulatory loopholes including learner drivers renewing their permits without sitting a driving test. Parc has also called for enhanced driver education. The Irish Independent revealed last week that last year a total of 15 fatal collisions involved learner drivers, 14 of whom were unaccompanied. Since 2019, there has been a 500pc increase in the number of learner drivers involved in fatal collisions. Mrs Gray warned that the trend in deaths and serious injuries in collisions across Ireland was deeply alarming. Victims families sickened by men claiming to be Irish patriots PSNI officers man road blocks in Belfast following an anti-Islamic protest at the weekend. Photo: David Young/PA Wire People taking part in an anti-Islamic protest outside Belfast City Hall at the weekend. Photo: PA Irish far right activists who travelled to Belfast at the weekend for an anti-immigration protest were hosted by a loyalist who was arrested in connection with the murders of five Catholics in a sectarian attack. The UDA man is described as Suspect 4 in a Police Ombudsman report into the 1992 gun attack on Sean Grahams Bookmakers. Five people, ranging in age from 15 to 66, were murdered in the sectarian atrocity. A Police Ombudsman investigation into the UDA unit responsible for the attack identified a number of suspects, including the loyalist widely believed to have been the getaway driver. On Saturday, the UDA man hosted the Dublin far-righters in a bar in Sandy Row in south Belfast, where they boasted that theyd received a heroes welcome. Businesses, including a cafe and supermarket owned by immigrants, were attacked in the aftermath of Saturdays protest. The PSNI have said theyre working with gardai to identify any suspects who crossed the Border to become involved in violence. Yesterday evening, an anti-immigration protest outside the Clayton Hotel in Belfast city centre ended with no reports of violence. Only around 15 protesters attended. Counter-protesters told them that no immigrants had ever been housed in the hotel and they dispersed after around 45 minutes. There was a sizeable police presence in the city centre ahead of the protest, with police keeping the anti-immigration protesters away from the counter protesters. Meanwhile, the Stormont Assembly has been recalled on Thursday to discuss Saturdays violent scenes. PSNI officers man road blocks in Belfast following an anti-Islamic protest at the weekend. Photo: David Young/PA Wire First Minister Michelle ONeill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said there must be a zero tolerance approach to racism and wanton destruction after they spoke to the chief constable yesterday. The two Stormont leaders said: While people are entitled to take part in peaceful protest, there is no justification for racism or for the violence and intimidation that occurred on our streets on Saturday. Today we have spoken to the chief constable and offered him our full support and we pledged to work to deliver a shared, peaceful and inclusive society. There must be a zero tolerance approach to racism and wanton destruction. Nobody should have to live in fear or threat of violence. This is an unholy alliance formed through hate and other nefarious activities Some anti-immigration protesters were caught on video shouting sectarian abuse at local people on the Lower Ormeau Road, with one protester shouting f*** your five alive, thought to be in reference to the attack on the bookmakers. Local people along with the PSNI prevented the mob from reaching the nearby Islamic Centre, but bottles and bricks were thrown at police lines by some of the crowd. Families of the victims of the Sean Graham massacre said they were disgusted by the displays of racism and sectarianism on the Ormeau Road on Saturday. Anti-racism protesters held a counter protest in Belfast. Photo: Peter Morrison/PA Wire That these people joined together in an attempt to attack our neighbours and friends was shocking, and very upsetting for victims and survivors, they said. That those who call themselves Irish patriots then socialised with a man suspected of multiple murders, including the killing of our loved ones, is sickening. This is an unholy alliance formed through hate and other nefarious activities and they are not welcome and will find no support among our community, who have suffered enough. Men with a Coolock Says No banner showed up at an anti-immigration rally at Phoenix Park in Dublin yesterday but were told to leave by other protesters. It is pure violence and we will not tolerate attacks on mosques or our Muslim communities One man could be heard saying: That banner is not welcome here we are f***ing Irish, no loyalists here. There have been attacks on businesses across the UK in the aftermath of a stabbing attack in Southport, during which three children died and a further eight were injured. Two adults also remain in a critical condition in hospital. Axel Rudakubana, a 17-year-old born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents, has been charged in connection with the attack, Misinformation spread online has been blamed for fuelling the protests. UK prime minister Keir Starmer said violent protesters who had targeted Muslim communities would swiftly face the full force of the law as he sought to quell days of anti-immigration rioting. Whatever the apparent motivation, this is not protest, it is pure violence and we will not tolerate attacks on mosques or our Muslim communities, Mr Starmer said yesterday after an emergency meeting with police and prison chiefs. The full force of law will be visited on all those who are identified as having taken part. The Northern Ireland Assembly will be recalled later this week to discuss violent scenes after an anti-immigration protest in Belfast. Several businesses were attacked during the violence on Saturday and business owners said the Islamic community was deliberately targeted. Four men appeared in court on Monday to face charges linked to the violence. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said on Monday they are aware of social media posts calling for protests across Northern Ireland in the week ahead. Violent partners should lose property rights to stop women and children being made homeless Justice Minister Helen McEntee has aired her frustrations about some sentences handed down by the Irish courts to violent men, saying they have not always matched the crime. Ms McEntee said she is trying to raise the ceiling for maximum sentences in cases of domestic abuse. She also revealed plans to force abusers to lose their property rights. This is being considered in order to stop the trend of women and children becoming homeless after fleeing violent and abusive people in their homes. In an exclusive and wide-ranging interview with the Indo Daily podcast, she also spoke about one of the defining moments of her time as minister that will for ever stick in her mind. The Indo Daily: People can call me woke Justice Minister Helen McEntee on domestic violence, Coolock and bomb threat on her family home It involved the disturbing case of a man who poured boiling water mixed with sugar over his pregnant partner. After a guilty plea and mitigating factors were taken into account, the abuser would only face between one and two years in prison. I kept seeing these types of cases and going, how can these sentences be so low?, she said. Responding to criticism of her time in the role, Ms McEntee said her detractors can call her woke if they want, but she added that cracking down on domestic and sexual violence should be a law-and-order issue for Fine Gael. If dealing with violence against women is not seen as being tough on crime, then I dont know what else is, to be honest, she said. Centres of refuge have reported that many victims are going back to their abuser to avoid having to live in emergency accommodation or a hotel. Ms McEntee said the idea that somebody would go back is just heartbreaking. She added that trying to leave an abuser in the first place is one of the most dangerous times for a victim. "My own view is the person who is a victim here shouldn't be the one who is leaving their home, she said. Ms McEntee said that while there are legal issues with kicking an abuser out of their own home, she is trying to draft a new law that would force the perpetrator out rather than the victim and their children. She admitted that despite setting up Cuan, a dedicated agency tasked with increasing domestic abuse refuge spaces, Ireland will have little over half the spaces it is meant to have by 2026. Justice Minister Helen McEntee speaking on the Indo Daily podcast about stiffer sentences for domestic abusers. Photo: Steve Humphreys Cuan is being tasked with increasing refuge spaces from 140 to 280 by 2026, with a particular emphasis on the nine counties with no refuges at all. However, based on its population, Ireland needs at least 500 spaces. The Justice Minister said 280 is not the final target, but added that the State needs to be realistic about what it can deliver over the next two years. She also spoke out against the use of victims counselling notes in rape trials, having heard from survivors who said the experience could almost be worse than the crime itself. Im very clear that I dont want any woman to go through that or any victim to go through that, Ms McEntee said, adding that the widespread use of such notes needs to be changed. The horrific spectre of famine and widespread starvation has returned to Sudan, as the country enters its 16th month of conflict. The latest expert reports estimate that over 750,000 people are facing famine-like conditions. Organisations working on the ground, including Concern, believe the true figure is higher, as large swathes of the country are inaccessible due to fighting. The head of the US Agency for International Development, Samantha Power, warned last month that current data suggested the crisis was comparable to and potentially worse than the 2011 famine in Somalia that killed a quarter of a million people. She added that it could potentially be worse than the Ethiopia famine of 1983-85 in which one million people died. With more than 25 million Sudanese people currently in humanitarian need, children are already dying and will continue to do so until the fighting ends and there is a major response by the international community. Behind the huge numbers is suffering for families. Concerns team, working with Unicef, recently assessed a sample of 690 children aged under five in the Jebel Moon district of Western Darfur. Almost one in five were severely or moderately acutely malnourished conditions that are immediately life-threatening and which often have long-term physical and cognitive development consequences for those who survive. Our teams on the ground are witnessing people selling assets to buy food for their families Over half the children surveyed had been sick in the previous fortnight, with fever, coughs and diarrhoea the most common ailments. Less than half the families had access to safe drinking water. Just 13pc had access to a toilet. A shortage of food, combined with a lack of water and toilets, is a recipe for further disease and suffering. The current conflict has destroyed wells, health clinics and communities. It has forced over 10 million people to flee their homes, with two million crossing into neighbouring countries in search of safety and food. Many people have had to move several times, bringing with them whatever household items they can carry. Forced to leave their farms and lose their livelihoods, many are now dependent on humanitarian organisations for their food. The loss of harvests and the disruption of supplies to local markets, have driven up the price of food. The price of staples such as sorghum has soared by 124pc in the last 12 months and goat prices have risen by 169pc. Our teams on the ground are witnessing people selling assets to buy food for their families. Concerns teams are working with communities in Sudan, providing health and nutrition services for women and children. We are supplying and supporting 57 clinics and running seven mobile clinics, which have treated over 11,000 malnourished children under the age of five. Water infrastructure at clinics (damaged by conflict) is also being repaired. Concern is procuring and distributing food, including cereals, pulses, dried vegetables and cooking oil. Essential items such as mosquito nets, blankets, solar lamps, soap, jerry cans and sanitary pads are being provided to families. Our teams are also responding along the Chad and South Sudan borders, where over 1.3 million people have crossed since the conflict began. Many are arriving sick, traumatised and with just the clothes on their backs. In Chad, we are working with displaced people and with local host communities to provide water, sanitation and hygiene services, healthcare and nutrition support. Local clinics are being supported in screening for and treating malnutrition, providing pre-natal and post-natal consultations, and vaccination services. In South Sudan, our teams are screening people for malnutrition and providing access to clean water. They are also providing cash assistance so people can purchase food and meet other needs. The worlds largest humanitarian crisis is occurring as result of a forgotten war. The international community is failing to adequately respond. Of the US$2.7bn (2.45bn) needed to assist 14.7 million people this year, less than 32pc has been provided to date. No one should die of hunger due to a lack of funding while waiting for peace. If lives are to be saved in Sudan, the international community has to work to bring about an urgent ceasefire and an end to the fighting. Amina Abdulla is Concern Worldwides regional director for the Horn of Africa. To learn more about Concerns work visit www.concern.net Iranians follow a truck carrying the coffins of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and his bodyguard who were killed in an assassination blamed on Israel. Photo: AP History does not teach fatalism. There are moments when the will of a handful of free men breaks through determinism and opens up new roads, said Charles de Gaulle. Tragically there is no sign of those eagerly awaited free men or the new roads when it comes to getting the Middle East out of the lethal cul-de-sac it has entered. Taoiseach Simon Harris is advising Irish citizens not to travel to Israel due to growing instability in the region. Palestine and Lebanon are also now no-go areas. The last seven days have virtually obliterated prospects of avoiding a catastrophic regional war. Those who might have the influence or control to intervene or apply the pressure to prevent an escalation have either not moved swiftly enough or not moved at all. Instead of seeing a mobilisation of global leaders to address the dangerous upsurge in hostilities there has been a lazy acceptance that further confrontation was inevitable. Iran vowed to exact harsh punishment on Israel after the assassination of Hamass chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. His death came hours after Israel claimed it had killed top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in an airstrike on Beirut. In Ramallah, headquarters of the Palestinian Authority, news of Haniyehs death was greeted with dismay. Its opening the door of hell, Sabri Saidam, deputy secretary general of the Central Committee of the ruling party Fatah, said. Any further attacks could trigger a chain reaction with dire consequences capable of destabilising the world. The US has sent warships and fighter jets to the region. France has joined the US and Britain in urging its citizens to leave Lebanon and Iran out of concern the conflict is likely to worsen. Analysts believe Tehrans response to Haniyehs killing could involve the different parts of its axis launching attacks simultaneously. The alliance also includes the Houthi rebels in Yemen and militia groups in Iraq and Syria. Thus the domino affect could reignite already-volatile regional flashpoints. Tel Aviv might tolerate a symbolic retaliation but Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu would be likely to strike back with maximum force to anything more. While the presence of US naval ships does not give the Israeli leader carte blanche to do what he wants, he may be emboldened to go all out given the weakened position of US president Joe Biden and the power vacuum in Washington in the run-up to the election. Jordans foreign affairs minister Ayman Safadi has appealed for calm. But Ali Bagheri Kani, Irans acting foreign affairs minister, reiterated the countrys serious determination to hold Israel accountable. He also urged regional countries to unite against Israel, who he accused of genocide in Gaza. While its clear events of the past few days have put paid to admittedly fragile ceasefire hopes, an alternative of full-scale all-out war is not acceptable. Just as conflict entraps those who relentlessly pursue it, violence multiplies violence. Justice Minister Helen McEntee is one of the most well-known and heavily scrutinised politicians in Ireland. Last Thursday, she sat down for an exclusive interview with the Indo Daily to discuss a wide range of pressing issues, including domestic violence, immigration and the growing number of threats being made to female politicians. Ms McEntee revealed that one of the defining moments of her time as minister involved the case of a pregnant woman whose partner boiled sugar and water and poured it over her. She says the memory of this case will never leave her. Speaking to Ellen Coyne, Ms McEntee detailed the work of Cuan, a dedicated agency tasked with increasing refuge spaces for those seeking to escape an abusive home life. The Fine Gael minister addressed the challenges arising from the Dublin city riots and the Coolock protests. She also spoke about dealing with the bomb threat that saw her family evacuated from their home. The free festival takes place over two days Smithfield Fleadh will take place on August 24 and 25. Pic: Mark Maxwell, Maxwell Photography. Several traditional Irish music acts are set to perform for the third year of the Smithfield Fleadh later this month. The free two-day festival will take place at Smithfield Square Dublins largest dedicated event space on the weekend of August 24 and 25, promising a mix of music, dance, song, and workshops. The family-friendly outdoor summer event will run from 12pm to 6pm at Smithfield Square. Programme highlights include the much-loved Gayli, a perfect way to get everyone in the family up and dancing. Paddy Keenan of The Bothy Band, joined by Aoife Ni Bhriain, Daoiri Farrell, and Eoghan O Ceannabhain, will wrap up the first day of the festival on Saturday, August 24. Crowd favourite Fingal Mummers will be back at the Smithfield Fleadh on Sunday, August 25, continuing a tradition of carnival-style play in masquerade. Frankie Gavin and De Dannan, well known for their high-energy performances, will close out the festival on the Main Stage on August 25. The Cobblestone Tent will return, with musicians from the well-known pub bringing the atmosphere, energy, and craic of a lock-in onto the streets on both days. Alongside this will be An Staitin Fanach, showcasing young musical talents. Visitors will be able to try their hand at learning the harp or bodhran, brought to them by An Puball Eigse, along with a special performance from Ceol Connected, and a conversation from the Irish Traditional Music Archive featuring Caitlin Nic Gabhann and Ciaran O Maonaigh. Caitlin Nic Gabhann is a highly respected Irish concertina player and dancer. She is known for her exceptional skill on the concertina and her contributions to Irish traditional music through performances and teaching. Ciaran O Maonaigh is a celebrated fiddler from County Donegal. He is well regarded for his expertise in the Donegal style of fiddling, a distinct and influential tradition within Irish music. Launching the fleadh, Dublins Lord Mayor James Geoghegan said: I'm delighted to see the return of the Dublin City Council Smithfield Fleadh this year. This year's festival is a fantastic opportunity for families to experience the joy of Irish traditional music completely free of charge. With engaging workshops, lively sessions, and energetic performances throughout the weekend, there's something for everyone to enjoy and create lasting memories in the heart of Smithfield Square, he added. A 38 year old married man who sent sexually explicit texts and videos to what he thought was a 12 year old girl but was actually an undercover UK police officer was told by Judge Keenan Johnson at Sligo Circuit Court that he will be going to jail. President Higgins calls for cultural inclusivity as he opens Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann in Wexford Both the President and Comhaltas Director Labhras O Murchu used the occasion to express solidarity with the people of Palestine Uachtaran Michael D. Higgins addressing the attendance at the opening of the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann on the Wexford Quays on Sunday. Pic: Jim Campbell Padraig Byrne Wexford People Tue 6 Aug 2024 at 13:15 As he stood on stage to officially open Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann 2024 in Wexford on Sunday, President Michael D Higgins brought with him a message. Newly appointed Honoury Consul for the south east base Melanie O'Reilly made a presentation to the Ambassade de France en Ireland Vincent Guerend pictured at the Wexford Normandy Association's farewell to the Ambassador in the Wexford Arts Centre on Monday evening. Pic: Jim Campbell Newly appointed Honoury Consul for the south east base Melanie O'Reilly made a presentation to the Ambassade de France en Ireland Vincent Guerend pictured at the Wexford Normandy Association's farewell to the Ambassador in the Wexford Arts Centre on Monday evening. Pic: Jim Campbell Ambassade de France en Ireland Vincent Guerend pictured during his speech at the Wexford Normandy Association's farewell to the Ambassador in the Wexford Arts Centre on Monday evening. Pic: Jim Campbell The attendance pictured during the Ambassade de France en Ireland Vincent Guerend speech at the Wexford Normandy Association's farewell to the Ambassador in the Wexford Arts Centre on Monday evening. Pic: Jim Campbell Ambassade de France en Ireland Vincent Guerend enjoying some Wexford strawberries at the Wexford Normandy Association's farewell to the Ambassador in the Wexford Arts Centre on Monday evening. Pic: Jim Campbell Some of the attendance pictured during the Ambassade de France en Ireland Vincent Guerend speech at the Wexford Normandy Association's farewell to the Ambassador in the Wexford Arts Centre on Monday evening. Pic: Jim Campbell Maura Bell addressing the attendance during the Wexford Normandy Association's farewell to the Ambassade de France en Ireland Vincent Guerend in the Wexford Arts Centre on Monday evening. Pic: Jim Campbell Ambassade de France en Ireland Vincent Guerend enjoying some Wexford strawberries at the Wexford Normandy Association's farewell to the Ambassador in the Wexford Arts Centre on Monday evening. Pic: Jim Campbell Wexford said farewell to one of its true friends at the Arts Centre last week as French Ambassador to Ireland, Vincent Guerend, bid adieu to the people of the county. Organised by the Wexford Normandy Cultural Association (WNCA) this was a celebration of a man who is soon to depart Ireland having served as ambassador for the past four years. Maura Bell, president of the WNCA, MCd the event and spoke of the ambassadors commitment to Wexford and his interest in its shared heritage with Normandy. That shared heritage was illustrated in a gift presented to Mr Guerend by the WCNA, an art piece by Design Notions, which depicts the connections and friendship between Wexford and Normandy. In turn, the ambassador described the WNCA as dynamic and progressive and said he appreciated how much it has done for strengthening Wexford Normandy relations. There was a further presentation on the night to the newly-announced Honorary Consul of France in South East Ireland, Wexfords Melanie OReilly. The ambassador presented Melanie with the Remis du Brevet (Award of the Brevet ) the Certificate of Appointment signed in the name of the President of the French Republic. He said he was delighted to officially appoint Ms Melanie OReilly as the first ever French Honorary Consul in Wexford, adding that the appointment will ensure relations between the south east and France become stronger than ever. In response, Melanie said, It is a huge honour to have been chosen to be Honorary Consul of France in South East Ireland based in Wexford to be a representative of the Embassy of France in Ireland is an extraordinary honour and I extend my sincere gratitude to the ambassador. In my role as Honorary Consul it is my intention and my hope that I will bring all my skills and experience to bear on this important role to serve and support French citizens residing in, or visiting Wexford and the south east area, to serve as a representative of the Embassy of France, to local authorities, local community groups and organisations and to work with them in order to promote cultural, business, economic, heritage, education, tourism and maritime links between France and the south east region. Wicklow County Council has issued a notice telling residents in Aughrim not to drink tap water, after a chemical spill was identified as the source of a serious ecological event that killed up to 2,000 fish. Last week, Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) announced that it was investigating an incident that occurred on the Aughrim River, where fish mortalities were observed in a 3km stretch of the watercourse in an area near Coats Bridge, with species of fish discovered dead including juvenile and adult Atlantic salmon, trout, and lamprey. In the aftermath of the shocking discovery, IFI stated it was not aware of the specific source of this harmful ecological event, confirming that water samples had been taken from the river to gather evidence. With concerns over impacts on public health running rife in the Aughrim community, Wicklow County Council recently issued an update for local representatives to disseminate, detailing how the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had identified the source, and that the resulting risk of contamination demanded a precautionary water notice for nearby residents. Wicklow County Council has been informed that a chemical spill occurred in the vicinity of Aughrim village near the Aughrim River, the statement read. As a result, there is a risk that the water supply in the vicinity may be vulnerable to contamination due to its close proximity to the Aughrim River. The EPA has made contact to say that the source of the pollution has been identified. Wicklow County Councils water pollution team have been liaising with the EPA, HSE and Inland Fisheries in the above regard. A non-use water notice has been issued to those consumers in the immediate vicinity that may be affected as a precautionary measure." The notice adds that the HSE propose to re-test the water supply this week. Emma Willis has said she was waiting for potential doom after her husbands documentary (Mark Cant/Womens Health UK/PA) TV presenter Emma Willis said she was waiting for potential doom after her husband Matts addiction documentary was released. Willis, 48, said Matt Willis: Fighting Addiction was f****** terrifying to make, and they decided to have a break in Thailand during its aftermath. Her husband, 41, who played bass and sang in pop band Busted in the 2000s, has struggled with addiction to alcohol and drugs, but has now been sober for five years. Emma Willis voiced her fears of how the documentary would be received (Mark Cant/Womens Health/PA) Willis, who is hosting Love Is Blind: UK for Netflix with her husband, has previously presented Big Brother, Celebrity Big Brother and The Voice UK. Speaking to Womens Health magazine about the 2023 addiction documentary, she said: It was f****** terrifying to make it because we always try to be as private as we can be in a public industry, and that was really putting ourselves out there. Even the night before it aired, we were like, what is going to happen tomorrow? We literally went away to Thailand and hid. We went for Matts birthday, but I timed it so we could have some time together away and wait for potential doom. But she said that instead of facing a negative response upon the couples return to the UK, they received a phenomenal reaction. Willis added: It was phenomenal the response and the stories that people shared. It honestly blew us away. I get really emotional every time I talk about it. I couldnt believe that people were sharing on such a public platform like Instagram what had happened to them. Its something that will be there forever, you know, and its how you kind of navigate it day to day, because life can get better. Emma Willis will feature on the cover of the next issue of Womens Health (Mark Cant/Womens Health UK/PA) The TV presenter was also asked if she would have fallen for the Busted star if she could not see him, as happens to the contestants on their latest show. She replied: Ive been asked this question a lot recently and my answer was a very quick, firm yes, I would have, and he had to think about it, which was a worry. Matt is the most charismatic and funny and loving and gorgeous human on the inside, and his personality just radiates out of him. So he would have definitely been at the top of my list, and then I saw him and he was well fit. The full interview with Emma Willis can be read in the next issue of Womens Health, which will be released on Tuesday August 13, or it can be read now on the Womens Health app by Collective members. LATEST | We will evaluate it when it comes closer Tanaiste responds to soldiers concerns they may not be able to come home at end of Lebanon tour Israel sends troops to borders as it prepares for possible infiltration attack by Iran and Hamas Tehran warns it is planning revenge strikes after killing of Ismail Haniyeh People watch as the bodies of unidentified Palestinians are buried at a mass grave in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip, after they were handed over by Israel. Photo: Reuters Jotam Confino Telegraph.co.uk Tue 6 Aug 2024 at 03:30 Israel has sent troops to bolster its borders with the West Bank as it prepares for a possible ground assault orchestrated by Hamas and Iran. A surfer takes to the waves off the shore of Haifa, northern Israel, against the backdrop of an Israeli Saar-6 corvette warship armed with an Iron Dome anti-missile battery, amid heightened hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel. Photo: Reuters/Ammar Awad A s Iran threatens to respond to the suspected Israeli assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, the regional militias that the Islamic Republic has armed for decades could play a role in any attack. Irans policy of arming militias took root in the aftermath of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Before it, the US provided major weapons systems including F-14 Tomcat fighter jets, to the government of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. After the revolution and the US Embassy hostage crisis, those shipments stopped. Irans eight-year war with Iraq in the 1980s destroyed much of its arsenal. Independent presidential candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr is once again firefighting a bizarre story from his past after he confessed to dumping a dead bear cub in New York Citys Central Park a decade ago. Seemingly attempting to get ahead of the publication of a forthcoming article in The New Yorker magazine, RFK Jr posted a video on X recounting the wild tale to former sitcom actress Roseanne Barr. Ukraine has said it destroyed a Russian fighter jet and ammunition warehouse in a series of strikes over the weekend. The first strike, carried out on Saturday, targeted the Morozovsk airfield in Russias southern Rostov region, Kyiv said. An aviation weapons depot, known to store glide bombs, an Su-34 jet and two other, similar, aircraft were among the targets claimed to have been obliterated. Tax Dispute Resolution Scheme for Contractors in Government Procurement in India We discuss the Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme II (VsV), a voluntary tax dispute settlement initiative in India that was first introduced in 2020 and updated in 2023 and again in 2024. In July 2024, an increase in the monetary thresholds for filing tax dispute appeals was announced. This article provides detailed insights into how VsV Scheme II works for contractors. In July 2024, the Indian government announced an increase in the monetary thresholds for filing tax dispute appeals under the Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme II, a voluntary tax dispute settlement option. The new limits are set at INR 6 million (US$71,650) for tax settlement disputes that can be lodged at the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal, INR 20 million (US$238,833) for the High Courts, and INR 50 million (US$597,083) for the Supreme Court. This move aims to reduce the backlog of pending tax cases. Previously, the limits were INR 2 million (US$23,883) for the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal, INR 10 million (US$119,416) for High Courts, and INR 20 million (US$238,833) for the Supreme Court. Different tax dispute settlement mechanisms in India To address the increasing number of tax dispute cases, India has launched various Limited Special Dispute Resolution and Prevention (LDRP) methods. These LDRP strategies serve as temporary solutions to manage disputes outside of traditional litigation, easing the financial strain on taxpayers and enhancing the countrys fiscal health by introducing alternative approaches to dispute resolution. In India, LDRP options are available for both international taxpayers and domestic taxpayers. Tax Dispute Resolution Mechanisms in India International taxpayers Domestic taxpayers Authority for Advance Rulings (AAR) Settlement Commission Mutual Agreement Procedure Ad-hoc Dispute Resolution schemes Advance Pricing Agreement Direct Tax Dispute Resolution scheme 2016 Dispute Resolution Panel (DRP) Vivad Se Vishwas scheme (VsV) Tax dispute-governing bodies The Income Tax Act of 1961 provides taxpayers with the right to appeal, enabling them to address grievances through appellate authorities or seek revision by the Commissioner of Income Tax. Appeals under the Income Tax Act, 1961: 1. The first appeal is made to the Income Tax Commissioner (Appeals), handled by an Assessing Officer. 2. The second appeal can be pursued at the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT), involving two parties, i.e., the assessee and the Assessing Officer. If an assessee wishes to escalate their appeal further, they may opt for suo moto, allowing them to file a writ petition under Article 226 of the Indian Constitution in the High Court against the Income Tax Department. The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal serves as the highest fact-finding authority in the country. Under the Income Tax Act, 1961, appeals to a High Court under section 260A[4] are permissible only if there is a substantial question of law. Additionally, an assessee can approach the Supreme Court under section 261 of the Income Tax Act, 1961 or file a Special Leave Petition under Article 136 of the Indian constitution. What is the VsV scheme? The VsV scheme is a voluntary option that can be availed by parties who opt to settle their tax dispute outside the ambit of a tribunal or court. It was first launched in 2020 for direct taxpayers to settle their tax disputes by partly paying their tax arrears. This settlements scheme 2.0 version (contractual disputes) was launched on May 29, 2023, to resolve contractual disputes between public and private entities. It is only applicable to Indian nationals and corporate entities registered in India. It may also be noted that the VsV scheme is a one-time tax dispute settlement mechanism. Application window opening date Application window closing date VsV I Direct Tax March 18, 2020 December 30, 2020 VsV I MSME April 11, 2023 December 31, 2023 VsV II Contractual Dispute July 15, 2023 December 31, 2023 VsV II 2024 Yet to be notified Yet to be notified Who is covered under the VsV scheme II? The scheme covers contractual disputes between Procuring Entities (buyers) and Contractors (sellers). The application window for VsV II (contractual dispute) was launched on July 15, 2023, and the last date for submitting claims by contractors was originally set to October 31, 2023. The deadline was later extended till December 31, 2023. VsV II scheme lists the below procuring entities: Central Government Ministries/Departments and their subordinate bodies. Autonomous bodies such as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), major ports, Central Government Employees Welfare Housing Organisation (CGEWHO), the Central Power Research Institute (CPRI), the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and the and the Indian Railways Institute of Civil Engineering (IRICEN), among others,. Public sector banks and financial institutions like SBI, BoI, BoM, and Bank of Baroda. Central Public Sector Enterprises such as ONGC, BPCL, HPCL, GAIL, EIL, AAI, HAL, IRCTC, BEML, DFCCIL, BSNL, CCL, CIL, NMDC, MMTC, NALCO, NTPC, PEC, and PFC. Union Territories without legislatures and their agencies/undertakings. Organizations with at least 50 percent central government holding, unless they have opted out. Contractors, within this scheme, are defined as: Any contractor willing to participate, including those from Central Public Sector Enterprises, that work with the procuring entities. The scheme does not apply to cases under international arbitration, which generally means disputes with an international seat. If interpreted as international commercial arbitration under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, the scheme will only apply to Indian nationals and corporate entities registered in India . . Contractors do not need to be award-holders. Even if a contractor is the debtor of an award or judgment, they can still opt for settlement under this VsV II scheme. This allows contractors to potentially reduce their liability by settling through this scheme, following the provided calculation. Organizations where the Government of India has shareholding of 50 percent can opt out of the scheme at their discretion, with approval of the board of directors. Tax dispute settlement provisions under VsV scheme II An applicant under VsV II will be granted immunity from initiation of any proceedings related to offenses, penalties, or interest on tax arrears. Additionally, declarations made under VsV II will not serve as precedents for the taxpayer or the tax authority for the issues covered. However, one may note that the scheme does not apply to cases involving search and seizure, prosecution, undisclosed income/assets located overseas, or proceedings under other specified laws. The VsV 2 scheme, announced in the Union Budget for FY 2023-24, proposes that the central government and its undertakings return 95 percent of forfeited bid or performance security amounts to MSMEs that were unable to execute contracts during the COVID-19 period. The scheme specifies that only tax disputes awarded by a court or Arbitral Tribunal (AT) based on monetary value are eligible for settlement. Awards that include stipulations for specific performance of a contract, either fully or partially, are not eligible for settlement under the VsV 2 scheme. Tax dispute settlement process under VsV II Under the VsV II scheme, MSMEs and contractual tax settlement applications can be submitted on the webpage of the Governmente-Marketplace (GeM). It has been notified that all the eligible claims will be processed only through this portal. For a contractor or seller to be eligible to raise settlement requests, they will need to complete the below mandatory details during registration and profile update: Validation of PAN of Enterprise Date of incorporation or registration of business CIN (Company Information Number) in case registering as a Private/Public Limited Company Steps to follow for contractor The applicant must login through the GeM portal via seller (contractor) i.d. The site can be accessed via https://sso.gem.gov.in/ARXSSO/oauth/doLogin Close all the pop-ups which are not required under VsV II. Click Ok to go to Account Profile page. Next, complete business PAN validation. Update organization details and date of incorporation. Once validated, click on Dashboard on the webpage and then Vivad se Vishwas link at the top of the webpage to land on the VSV-2 dashboard. After this, eligible contractors can raise their settlement request or view existing settlement requests. At any point of time, contractors can go to My Account to update their profile. They can also filter the settlement requests based on the respective status. To lodge any new settlement request: Login with the GeM ID, go to the dashboard and click on the button New settlement Request. Contractors need to select if the respective contract was raised on GeM or was outside of GeM along with contract number and contract date. For contracts raised on GeM, the entire section of Organization Details will be auto filled. For all contracts raised outside of GeM, the contractor will need to select the buyer details. The contractors will then need to fill in the rest of the settlement request form details (dispute details, settlement details, document upload) and upload applicable documents as per the settlement request. Once the form is complete, contractors can click on Save and Preview button to view settlement details and ensure no misinformation has been provided. Upon reviewing the details of both the contractor and the buyer, check the I Agree box and click on submit button for request submission. The submitted settlement request will now be visible on Dashboard. Click on Request ID to view details at any point of time. Documents required The GeM portal suggests having the following list of documents handy: Authorization letter from the organization Contract copy Settlement amount calculation sheet (as per scheme guidelines) Settlement specific document (copy of last court order , copy arbitration order, BG document ) It must be noted that for any non-GeM contracts related to buyers from the Ministry of Railways, the contractor needs to raise their settlement request on the iREPS portal. If any of the respective buyer organization details are not available in the drop-down list, the contractor needs to connect with the procuring entity and ask them to register on GeM. Only after the buyer organization registers on the GeM portal, will the contractor be able to raise the settlement request. An applicant may contact the respective controlling ministry of that procuring entity organization. Registered matters under dispute will reflect the following status based on the progress of the process: Pending The settlement request pending for action from the buyers end. In-Progress The procuring entity has asked a query via communication channel. Offer in Progress The offer has been generated by the buyer and is pending for contractors acceptance/rejection. Agreement Pending (Buyer) The offer is accepted by the seller/contractor and pending for agreement upload by the buyer/procuring entity. Agreement Pending (Seller) The contractor must upload the agreement on stamp paper. Rejected The settlement request has been rejected by the procuring entity and The rejection reason will be visible in contractor Vivad se Vishwas dashboard. Payment Pending Pending payment. Settled The payment has been made by the respective party. There are four offer status: Offer Accepted The offer has been accepted by the contractor. Offer Rejected The offer has been rejected by the contractor. Offer Withdrawn The offer has been withdrawn by the procuring entity before offer acceptance/rejection. Offer Generated The offer has been generated by the procuring entity. VsV scheme II 2024 The VsV scheme II was reopened for MSMEs and contractors on April 17, 2024, with the application submission deadline set to July 31, 2024. A finance ministry statement highlighted that various government ministries and departments have granted more than INR 2.56 billion (US$ 30.5 million) to MSMEs, enhancing bank credit flow by freeing up guarantees. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas provided the highest relief of INR 1.16 billion (US$13.85 million), followed by the railways and defense ministries at INR 791.6 million (US$ 9.4 million) and INR 234.5 million (US$2.8 million), respectively. The steel and power ministries settled claims worth INR 144.8 million (US$1.72 million) and INR 66.9 million (US$798,897), respectively. The scheme also covers works procurement and earning contracts and provides relief to MSMEs debarred for contract execution defaults. In July of this year, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed to reintroduce the VsV scheme and increase the monetary thresholds for filing tax dispute appeals. The Vivad Se Vishwas scheme will enable the review of tax disagreements and appeals, including writs and special leave petitions filed by either taxpayers or tax authorities, pending as of July 22, 2024, which are being dealt with in the following forums: Supreme Court, High Court, Income Tax Appellate Tribunal, Commissioner/Joint Commissioner (Appeals). The Dispute Resolution Panel (DRP) or where DRP directions have been issued but the final assessment order is awaited. Revision petitions pending before the Commissioner of Income Tax. Initiation of appeal proceedings Amount payable under VsV on or before December 31, 2024 Amount payable under this scheme on or after January 1, 2025 but on or before specified date (yet to be notified) After 31/01/2020 In case of disputed tax, interest and penalty: 100% of the disputed tax 25% of disputed interest or disputed penalty In case of disputed interest or penalty: 110% of the disputed tax 30% of disputed interest or disputed penalty Before 31/01/2020 In case of disputed interest or penalty: 110% of the disputed tax 30% of disputed interest or disputed penalty In case of disputed tax, interest and penalty: 120% of the disputed tax 35% of disputed interest or disputed penalty (US$1 = INR 83.74). File image/ courtesy: PIB The Cabinet Committee on Security met at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official residence Monday evening amid the turmoil in neighbouring Bangladesh and its leader Sheikh Hasina arriving in Ghaziabad after fleeing the country following massive protests over job quotas. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman were present in the meeting. Earlier, PM Modi was briefed on the situation in Bangladesh by S Jaishankar. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, who is the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has also spoken to Jaishankar. Earlier Monday, the 76-year-old five-time Bangladesh Prime Minister was forced to resign from her position after more than 300 people died in violent protests over a quota for government jobs in that country. On Monday, the Bangladesh Army, which gave Sheikh Hasina 45 minutes to resign after her government couldn't control the violence, took charge of the country. In a televised address Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the military will form an "interim government" and told protesters to stand down. Flanked by the Naval and Air Force Chiefs, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman says the honourable PM has resigned and that an interim government will take over. pic.twitter.com/Z1pqaUeQoq Man Aman Singh Chhina (@manaman_chhina) August 5, 2024 "There is a crisis. I have met Opposition leaders and we have decided to form an interim government to run this country. I take all responsibility and promise to protect your life and property. Your demands will be fulfilled. Please stop the violence," the Army chief said. Earlier in the day protesters broke into Gonobhaban - the Dhaka residence of the Prime Minister. According to local media, as many as 400,000 protesters were on the streets but it was impossible to verify the figure. Soldiers and police with armoured vehicles had barricaded routes to Hasina's office with barbed wire, media reports said, but vast crowds flooded the streets, tearing down barriers. However, by then Hasina fled the country. She landed at the Hindon Air Force base in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad. There are no reports yet if Modi will meet Hasina. Sheikh Hasina is expected to leave for London later where she may seek political asylum, NDTV reported quoting sources. Sources told news agency ANI Sheikh Hasina's plane, a Bangladesh Air Force C-130 military transport, is parked near the Indian Air Force's C-17 and C-130J Super Hercules aircraft hangars. Photo courtesy: S Jaishankar X handle New Delhi/IBNS: The central government on Tuesday held an all-party meeting under the leadership of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on the Bangladesh turmoil and the fall of Sheikh Hasina government amid widespread violence taking place in the neighbouring country. Jaishankar briefed the floor leaders of all parties about the situation in Bangladesh and the steps taken by New Delhi. The meeting was attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and leaders of all parties. Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended. pic.twitter.com/tiitk5M5zn Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 6, 2024 Jaishankar has also briefed how the government will work to limit the fallout with the new dispensation in Bangladesh for backing Hasina. Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has declared the dissolution of the Parliament and the formation of an interim government to facilitate prompt elections in the country which is witnessing severe anti-government protests that triggered former PM Sheikh Hasina's resignation. Hasina, the longest serving Prime Minister of the country who returned to power for another term following a landslide victory in the general polls this year, fled the country amid violent anti-quota protests and arrived in India on Monday. Reportedly, Hasina, who shares good terms with New Delhi, is still in India. After escaping the nation amid violence, Sheikh Hasina arrived at the Hindon airbase in India's Ghaziabad city. Photo Courtesy: PID Bangladesh/Wikimedia Commons After arriving in India he met National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Sources told The Indian Express she was taken to a safe house, and is likely to travel to the United Kingdom (UK). What happened on Monday? On Monday, the 76-year-old five-time Prime Minister was forced to resign from her position after more than 300 people died in violent protests over a quota for government jobs in that country. The Bangladesh Army, which gave Sheikh Hasina 45 minutes to resign after her government couldn't control the violence, took charge of the country. In a televised address Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the military will form an "interim government" and told protesters to stand down. Photo Courtesy: Avishek Mitra/IBNS Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday informed the Rajya Sabha that Sheikh Hasina requested approval to come to India at a 'very short notice' in the wake of the anti-government violence in Bangladesh which led to her ouster and escaping from the South Asian nation. Hasina resigned and arrived in India after running away from her country where she served as the longest Prime Minister and even returned to power for another term by winning the general polls in January. Sources told The Indian Express she was taken to a safe house, and is likely to travel to the United Kingdom (UK). Speaking in the Upper House of the Indian Parliament, Jaishankar said: " Demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign." He said: "At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi." Indian government is in touch with nationals currently present in Bangladesh He said New Delhi is in touch with the Indian community members in Bangladesh. He said 9,000 students are still present in Bangladesh. Also Read: Nobel laureate and Grameen Bank founder Muhammad Yunus agrees to become adviser to Bangladesh's interim government "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students," he said. "The bulk of the students have already returned to India in the month of July on the advice of the High Commission. In terms of our diplomatic presence, in addition to the High Commission in Dhaka, we have Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna and Sylhet," the EAM said. "It is our expectation that the host government will provide the required security protection for these establishments. We look forward to their normal functioning once the situation stabilizes," he said. Jaishankar said the situation in Bangladesh is still evolving. Hasina arrived at Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad after fleeing Bangladesh amid political turmoil. Remark on the situation of minorities in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina's ouster and ongoing violence Jaishankar said the Indian government is monitoring the situation of minorities in Bangladesh following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina with reports emerging that several Hindu houses and temples have been targeted by fundamentalists in the neighbouring country. Also Read: Sheikh Hasina claims 'white man' offered her smooth re-election in exchange for airbase in Bangladesh " There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organizations to ensure their protection and well-being. We welcome that, but will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored. Our border guarding forces have also been instructed to be exceptionally in view of this complex situation," Jaishankar said. The farm of a Hindu man ( Biswajit Mondal) was set on fire in Pirojpur. pic.twitter.com/kCEv7QmIx5 Voice Of Bangladeshi Hindus (@hindu8789) August 6, 2024 Several unverified videos are currently circulating on social media where Hindu community members could be seen attacked by fundamentalists. Two Hindu councillors were among the 100 people killed in Sundays violent clashes across Bangladesh. Attack on Hindus.... pic.twitter.com/5QD4QnB71H Voice Of Bangladeshi Hindus (@hindu8789) August 5, 2024 Another Hindu councillor from Rangpur, Kajal Roy, was also killed in the protests, reported The New Indian Express. Looting Vegetables Shop of a Hindu Man. pic.twitter.com/H4y4PylcyM Voice Of Bangladeshi Hindus (@hindu8789) August 6, 2024 According to The Daily Star report, mobs targeted Hindu houses and business establishments in 27 districts of the country. What happened on Monday? Earlier Monday, the 76-year-old five-time Prime Minister was forced to resign from her position after more than 300 people died in violent protests over a quota for government jobs in that country. The Bangladesh Army, which gave Sheikh Hasina 45 minutes to resign after her government couldn't control the violence, took charge of the country. Also Read: Bangladesh Violence: President Mohammed Shahabuddin declares dissolution of Parliament, interim government to formed soon In a televised address Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the military will form an "interim government" and told protesters to stand down. "There is a crisis. I have met Opposition leaders and we have decided to form an interim government to run this country. I take all responsibility and promise to protect your life and property. Your demands will be fulfilled. Please stop the violence," the Army chief said. Photo Courtesy: Indian President X page Indian President Droupadi Murmu was on Tuesday conferred the Fijian government's Highest civilian honour during her first visit to the country. President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji upon President Droupadi Murmu. Murmu reached Suva, Fiji on Tuesday from Nadi where she landed on the first leg of her State Visit to Fiji, New Zealand and Timor-Leste. She was received by the rime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji at the airport and accorded ceremonial welcome. "This is the first-ever visit by an Indian Head of State to Fiji. President Murmu is accompanied on this visit by Minister of State Shri George Kurian, and Lok Sabha MPs Shri Saumitra Khan and Shri Jugal Kishore," read a statement issued by the Indian President's Office. A traditional welcome ceremony was organised for President Murmu in the presence of the Prime Minister of Fiji. Subsequently, the President visited the State House where she was warmly received by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji. The two leaders discussed ways to further deepen the India-Fiji relationship. The President said that India remains committed to strengthening our relations and development partnership with the Pacific Island Countries (PICs), among which Fiji is an important partner. At the State House, the President of Fiji conferred the highest civilian award of Fiji - Companion of the Order of Fiji - upon President Droupadi Murmu. President Murmu also witnessed the progress of the 'Solarisation of Heads of State Residences' project, an Indian initiative which was inaugurated in February last year. In the next engagement, the President addressed the Parliament of Fiji. The President said that despite the vast difference in our size, both India and Fiji have much in common, including our vibrant democracies. She assured the Fijian parliamentarians that as a close friend and partner with rich experience of fostering democracy at the grassroots level, India stands ready to partner Fiji at all times. President Murmu added that today, Fiji is recognized around the world for its growing contribution to our common efforts, focused on two major global challenges - climate change and addressing human conflicts. Whether it is shaping the global dialogue on climate change or voicing the concerns of the ocean-states, Fiji has been contributing immensely to the global good. India greatly values and applauds the increasingly prominent role played by Fiji around the world. The President said that the rest of the world has much to learn from Fiji, including the gentle Fijian way of life, the deep-rooted respect for traditions and customs and an open and multicultural environment. She was happy to note that India-Fiji cooperation in various sectors continues to grow from strength to strength. The President said that as a powerful voice of the Global South, India will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Fiji and other ocean states for climate justice. In the subsequent engagement, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji called on President Droupadi Murmu. The two leaders held wide-ranging discussions and agreed to build upon the historic ties and strengthen the partnership between the two countries. The President said that India is committed to deepening its development partnership with Fiji, with a focus on building climate resilience and development of clean and renewable energy. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka also presided over a ceremony for handing over of documents for allocation of project sites for (i) High Commission of India Chancery and Indian Cultural Centre Complex, Suva and (ii) 100-bed Super Speciality Hospital, Suva. The President also addressed an enthusiastic gathering of the Indian diaspora community. She said that the determination and resilience of the 'Girmitiya' indentured laborers who came to Fiji 145 years ago, and flourished in their new motherland against all odds, is a source of great inspiration to the world. The President said that we see our overseas Indian community across the world as important partners and stakeholders in the journey of building the India of our dreams. The President also visited the National War Memorial in Suva to honour the memory of martyred soldiers. She also visited Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School, where she paid floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi. In the last official engagement of the day, President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji hosted a Reception in honour of President Murmu at State House, bringing together eminent Fijians from all walks of life. In her remarks on the occasion, the President thanked President Katonivere, Prime Minister Rabuka and the Government and people of Fiji for the warm welcome extended to her. After the successful completion of official engagements in Suva, the President left for Nadi from where she will emplane for Auckland, New Zealand tomorrow. Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons Former Indian Ambassador Harsh Vardhan Shringla has said the involvement of foreign powers in the current political turmoil in Bangladesh could not be ruled out. "You cannot rule out the involvement of foreign powers who are inimical to Bangladesh's interest and to our (India's) security also," Shringla was quoted as saying by ANI. Latest Development: Former Bangladesh IT minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak detained at Dhaka airport "You cannot rule out the fact that certain interests have been fishing in troubled waters. But I think the situation itself was a result of several underlying factors, inherent within Bangladesh," he added. Meanwhile, Bangladesh's key opposition leader and Sheikh Hasina's longtime political rival Khaleda Zia has been released from prison. BNP Media Cell member Shairul Kabir Khan told Dhaka Tribune: "President Shahabuddin has ordered the release of Begum Zia. This joy is beyond words." Khaleda Zia was sent to prison On Feb 8, 2018 after a Bangladeshi court sentenced her to five years in prison in the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case. Later in the same year, the court raised her punishment to 10 years. Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday informed the Rajya Sabha that Sheikh Hasina requested approval to come to India at a 'very short notice' in the wake of the anti-government violence in Bangladesh which led to her ouster and escaping from the South Asian nation. Also read: Sheikh Hasina sought approval to come to India at very short notice: S Jaishankar informs Rajya Sabha on Bangladesh crisis Hasina resigned and arrived in India after running away from her country where she served as the longest Prime Minister and even returned to power for another term by winning the general polls in January. Sources told The Indian Express she was taken to a safe house, and is likely to travel to the United Kingdom (UK). Photo courtesy: PID Bangladesh British immigration rules do not allow individuals to seek asylum or temporary refuge in the country, the UK Home Office told NDTV Tuesday morning, amid speculations that ousted Bangladesh leader Sheikh Hasina, now in Delhi, will fly to London to claim sanctuary. The UK government, now headed by Keir Starmer following Labour's landslide win last month, also said individuals seeking asylum must do so "in the first safe country they reach". "The UK has a proud record of providing protection for people who need it. However, there is no provision for someone to be allowed to travel to the UK to seek asylum or temporary refuge," he told the channel. "Those who need international protection should claim asylum in the first safe country they reach - that is the fastest route to safety," a UK Home Office spokesperson told NDTV. However, media reports quoting sources indicate a formal asylum request is being processed. What happened on Monday? Earlier Monday, the 76-year-old five-time Prime Minister was forced to resign from her position after more than 300 people died in violent protests over a quota for government jobs in that country. The Bangladesh Army, which gave Sheikh Hasina 45 minutes to resign after her government couldn't control the violence, took charge of the country. In a televised address Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the military will form an "interim government" and told protesters to stand down. "There is a crisis. I have met Opposition leaders and we have decided to form an interim government to run this country. I take all responsibility and promise to protect your life and property. Your demands will be fulfilled. Please stop the violence," the Army chief said. Meanwhile, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday made way for the formation of the interim government after officially dissolving the Parliament, a day after ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and escaped to India amid anti-government demonstrations in the country. Bangladesh's key opposition leader and Sheikh Hasina's longtime political rival Khaleda Zia has been released from prison. Photo courtesy:Facebook/Amit Shah New Delhi/IBNS: Union Home Minister Amit Shah met with Foreign Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval Tuesday to discuss the security situation in the country amid the massive turmoil in Bangladesh. On Monday, Sheikh Hasina resigned from the post of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh and came to Delhi. Since then, security has been strengthened in border areas. The situation in border areas has been delicate given the ongoing violence in the neighbouring country. While the authorities have been directed to keep an eye on illegal migration, there is also concern about the condition of the Indians living in Bangladesh and the minorities of the Muslim-majority nation. In a statement to the Lok Sabha earlier in the day, Jaishankar said there are around 19,000 Indian nationals living in Bangladesh, around 9,000 of whom are students. The bulk of students have already returned to India in the month of July on the advice of the High Commission. The ministry, he said, has been in "close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions". New Delhi, he said, is monitoring the situation about minorities. "There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being. We welcome that, but will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored," he said. "Our border guarding forces have also been instructed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation," Jaishankar said. The situation in Bangladesh, the foreign minister added, is "still evolving". "The Army Chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman, addressed the nation on 5 August. He spoke about assuming responsibility and constituting an interim government," he said. More than 300 people have died in Bangladesh in the violence that has been continuing since last month. Meanwhile, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday made way for the formation of the interim government after officially dissolving the Parliament, a day after ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and escaped to India amid anti-government demonstrations in the country. Bangladesh's key opposition leader and Sheikh Hasina's longtime political rival Khaleda Zia has been released from prison. Photo courtesy: PID Bangladesh Ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas US visa has been revoked, News18 reported quoting insider sources close to the opposition in Bangladesh. This development comes amid reports that Western nations, including the US, sought her ousting from power. Meanwhile, according to Dhaka Tribune, a spokesperson of the US embassy said that visa records are confidential under US law, when they were asked if Sheikh Hasina's visa was revoked. "...and therefore, we do not discuss the details of individual visa cases," the Dhaka newspaper reported amid social media posts that the US has revoked Sheikh Hasina's, her sister Sheikh Rehana's and the former government ministers', advisors', and officials' visas. On Monday, Sheikh Hasina resigned from the post of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh and came to Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad. Since then security has been strengthened in Indian border areas. Upon her arrival in India, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met her at the Ghaziabad airbase. Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told Parliament that Hasina reached out to India for safe passage following her abrupt resignation. Delivering a suo motu statement in the Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar said that Hasina received approval to travel to India at very short notice". What did her son say? Meanwhile, Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed, who is based in Washington, told NDTV that she has not sought asylum "anywhere" Hasina, 76, was contemplating retirement anyway and now she will retire from politics and spend time with family members, added Sajeeb Wazed. On being asked about multiple reports about the UK's "silence" on her request for asylum and revocation of her visa by the US, Wazed said, "The reports about her requesting asylum are incorrect. She has not requested asylum anywhere. So the question of UK or US not responding yet is not true". Asked about the US Visa revocation, he said, "There has been no such discussion with the US". Hasina is still stationed in Ghaziabad amid various speculations of her seeking refugee in western countries. File of image PM Modi with Sheikh Hasina/ courtesy: PIB Will she get UK asylum? Earlier, it was reported that British immigration rules do not allow individuals to seek asylum or temporary refuge in the country, the UK Home Office told NDTV Tuesday morning, amid speculations that ousted Bangladesh leader Sheikh Hasina, now in Delhi, will fly to London to claim sanctuary. The UK government, now headed by Keir Starmer following Labour's landslide win last month, also said individuals seeking asylum must do so "in the first safe country they reach". "The UK has a proud record of providing protection for people who need it. However, there is no provision for someone to be allowed to travel to the UK to seek asylum or temporary refuge," he told the channel. "Those who need international protection should claim asylum in the first safe country they reach - that is the fastest route to safety," a UK Home Office spokesperson told NDTV. However, media reports quoting sources indicate a formal asylum request is being processed. What happened on Monday? Earlier Monday, the 76-year-old five-time Prime Minister was forced to resign from her position after more than 300 people died in violent protests over a quota for government jobs in that country. The Bangladesh Army, which gave Sheikh Hasina 45 minutes to resign after her government couldn't control the violence, took charge of the country. In a televised address Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the military will form an "interim government" and told protesters to stand down. "There is a crisis. I have met Opposition leaders and we have decided to form an interim government to run this country. I take all responsibility and promise to protect your life and property. Your demands will be fulfilled. Please stop the violence," the Army chief said. Meanwhile, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday made way for the formation of the interim government after officially dissolving the Parliament, a day after ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and escaped to India amid anti-government demonstrations in the country. Bangladesh's key opposition leader and Sheikh Hasina's longtime political rival Khaleda Zia has been released from prison. In the arid expanses of south-west Punjab, where groundwater salinity and waterlogging once spelled agricultural despair, a remarkable transformation is underway. The region, notorious for its challenging saline conditions, has unexpectedly turned into a thriving hub for shrimp farming, offering a new lease of life to farmers who were once compelled to abandon their fields. A few years ago, the farmers of south-west Punjab, including districts like Fazilka, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Bathinda, Mansa, and Faridkot, were grappling with unproductive, salt-laden land. Forced into daily wage labor due to the inhospitable farming conditions, their fortunes have now taken a dramatic turn. The shift to shrimp farming has not only revived their livelihoods but has also positioned this region as a potential future shrimp hub of India. India, a leading global player in shrimp exports, has seen a significant boost from this inland saline area. The success story began with a state-sponsored demonstration in Ratta Khera village, spearheaded by the Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University and the Regional Centre of ICAR Central Institute of Fisheries Education from Haryana. This initiative highlighted the economic viability of utilizing salt-affected wastelands for aquaculture. Following this, similar camps were organized throughout the region, which has since witnessed a dramatic expansion in shrimp farming. From just 1 acre in 2014, the area dedicated to shrimp farming has surged to an impressive 1,315 acres in 2023. Dr. Inderjeet Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, emphasized how the saline and waterlogged lands, once seen as liabilities, have been transformed into valuable aquaculture assets. The abundance of water, despite its salinity, has been harnessed to develop a thriving aquaculture industry. This shift has converted previously worthless wastelands into profitable ventures, he said. Economic returns from this transformation are substantial. Farmers now report earnings ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 5 lakh per acre through fish and shrimp farming, respectively. Dr. Meera D. Ansal, Dean of the College of Fisheries, noted the universitys efforts in this transition. Over the past five years, around 1,500 water and 2,500 shrimp samples have been tested, and approximately 300 stakeholders have been trained in shrimp farming techniques. The universitys promotion of entrepreneurial ventures among youth has also been pivotal. Young professionals and recent graduates from the university have successfully adopted shrimp farming, expanding their operations from 1 acre to 3-4 acres within just two years. Shrimp farming is a highly lucrative enterprise, Dr. Ansal stated. If managed well, it can yield a net profit of up to Rs 10 lakh per hectare per crop in just four months. Farmers are optimistic about the future. Shrimp cultivation, which thrives from March/April to October/November, has adapted well to the regions climate. With proper management, shrimp farming in south-west Punjab promises not just economic rejuvenation but also a model of resourceful agricultural innovation in the face of adversity. (Photo and text courtesy: Khalsavox.com) Israel and Palestine are engaged in a conflict since late 2023. Photo Courtesy: UNRWA The UN said on Monday that nine staff working for its Palestine refugee agency UNRWA will be sacked because they may have been involved in the 7 October 2023 Hamas-led attacks against Israel. The development follows the conclusion of an investigation by the UN Office of Oversight Services (OIOS), launched earlier this year after Israel alleged that several UNRWA personnel took part in the brutal assault on its territory in which some 1,200 people were killed and another 250 were taken to Gaza as hostages. However, OIOS was not able to independently authenticate information used by Israel to support the allegations. Appropriate measures and terminations OIOS is the highest investigative body in the UN system and its reports are confidential but can be made available to Member States upon request. Investigators made findings in relation to 19 UNRWA staff alleged to have been involved in the attacks, UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq told journalists in New York. In one case, no evidence was obtained by OIOS to support the allegations of the staff members involvement, while in nine other cases, the evidence obtained by OIOS was insufficient to support the staff members involvement, he said. Regarding these10 cases, he said that appropriate measures will be taken in due course, in conformity with UNRWA Regulations and Rules. With respect to the remaining nine cases, the evidence obtained by OIOS indicated that the UNRWA staff members may have been involved in the 7 October attacks. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini issued a statement acknowledging the completion of the probe. I have decided that in the case of these remaining nine staff members, they cannot work for UNRWA. All contracts of these staff members will be terminated in the interest of the Agency, he said. Information not authenticated Asked about the extent of the staff members alleged involvement, Mr. Haq responded that he did not have specific information about the specific allegations. He said the OIOS investigation involved visits to Israel for discussions with officials and to see and review information held by authorities there. The investigators also travelled to Amman, Jordan, to obtain and review relevant information held by UNRWA, including on its staff and operations. They also reviewed information and communications technology data, such as email records and information on agency vehicles, in addition to information from various other sources, including that released to the media and other public sources, and communications with several Member States. However, one thing I'd like to point out is that since information used by Israeli officials to support the allegations have remained in Israeli custody, OIOS was not able to independently authenticate most of the information provided to it, he noted. Parallel probe The accusations surfaced in January when Israel informed UNRWA of the alleged involvement of 12 staff members in the attacks. UNRWA immediately identified and terminated 10, while two were confirmed dead. The UN later received information from Israel about seven more cases five in March and two in April. Following the initial allegations, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres immediately ordered OIOS to investigate. He also appointed an independent review panel to conduct a separate assessment into UNRWA to determine whether the agency was doing everything it could to ensure neutrality and to respond to allegations of serious breaches when they arise. The panel headed by former French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna - published its report in April. Speaking at the time, she said the set of rules and the mechanisms and procedures in place [at UNRWA] are the most elaborate within the UN system, precisely because it is such a difficult issue to work in such a complex and sensitive environment. Lazzarini said that UNRWA has started implementing the panels recommendations and is fully committed to them. Finally, I reiterate UNRWAs condemnation of the 7 October attack in the strongest possible terms. I call once again for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and their safe return to their families, he said. UN chiefs opinions Haq was asked about the Secretary-Generals views regarding the OIOS findings. The UN chief believes that it is important that we go through this very carefully, given the fact that any involvement in these attacks would constitute a major betrayal of trust, he said. Obviously, there were actions that were taken for the benefit of the agency that were very swift and very decisive in terms of dealing with the individuals who had been named at first, and now it's good to have all of the information available, he added. Referring to the Gaza war, Haq also underlined the importance of remembering that a huge number of UNRWA staff have been taking enormous risks for months, keeping hundreds of thousands of people alive, whether in shelters or by providing food and services. And we want to make sure that the reputation of our UNRWA staff, our dedicated staff, including about 200 people who have lost their lives since 7 October, is fully recognized and that UNRWA gets the support that it needs, he said. US judge rules Google's online search monopoly as illegal. Photo Courtesy: Pixabay Giving a blow to Google, a US judge on Monday ruled that it illegally acted to beat competition and maintain a monopoly in the area of online search and related advertisement. The ruling is crucial since it may reshape the way Americans get information online which has been dominated by Google so far. After having carefully considered and weighed the witness testimony and evidence, the court reaches the following conclusion: Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly, US District Judge Amit Mehta wrote in Mondays opinion as quoted by CNN. It has violated Section 2 of the Sherman Act. It is still not clear what penalties Google or Alphabet will face following the decision. In 2020, the Justice Department filed a civil antitrust suit against Google for monopolizing search and search advertising, which are different markets from the digital advertising technology markets. US Attorney General Merrick Garland, the country's top prosecutor, appreciated the ruling and said: " This victory against Google is an historic win for the American people." "No company no matter how large or influential is above the law. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously enforce our antitrust laws,"Garland said. He said: "This landmark decision holds Google accountable." Meanwhile, Alphabet plans to appeal against the ruling of the US judge. This decision recognises that Google offers the best search engine, but concludes that we shouldnt be allowed to make it easily available," the company said in a statement as quoted by BBC. What is Anti anti-trust law? The Antitrust Division enforces federal antitrust and competition laws. "These laws prohibit anticompetitive conduct and mergers that deprive American consumers, taxpayers, and workers of the benefits of competition," US Department of Justice website said. Photo Courtesy: UNRWA Reports of alleged torture and sexual violence in Israels Sde Teiman prison represent the tip of the iceberg, UN independent human rights experts warned on Monday, calling for swift action to end impunity surrounding reports of violations against Palestinian detainees. Israels widespread and systemic abuse of Palestinians in detention and arbitrary arrest practices over decades, coupled with the absence of any restraints by the Israeli State since 7 October 2023, paint a shocking picture enabled by absolute impunity, the experts said. Call for international observers What is required now is nothing short of an independent, international presence of human rights observers, they said. They must become the worlds eyes in light of Israels brazen failure to prevent and address the heinous rights violations against prisoners and detainees. The experts have received substantiated reports of widespread abuse, torture, sexual assault and rape, amid atrocious inhumane conditions, with at least 53 Palestinians apparently dying as a result in the 10 months that have followed the Hamas-led attacks on Israel, which left some 1,200 dead and 250 taken hostage. Caged, blindfolded and stripped Around 9,500 Palestinians, including hundreds of children and women, are currently imprisoned, a third of them without charge or trial, the independent UN Human Rights Council-appointed experts said. Some victims spoke of loud music played until their ears bled, waterboarding and being attacked by dogs. They added that an unknown number are arbitrarily being held in detention facilities and ad hoc camps following a wave of arrests and abduction campaigns across Occupied Palestinian Territory. Countless testimonies by men and women speak of detainees in cage-like enclosures, tied to beds blindfolded and in diapers, stripped naked, deprived of adequate healthcare, food, water and sleep. Some allegedly have suffered electrocutions on their genitals, together with cigarette burns, the experts said. Some victims also spoke of loud music played until their ears bled, being attacked by dogs, waterboarding, suspension from ceilings and severe sexual and gender-based violence. Allegations of gang-rape of a Palestinian detainee, now shockingly supported by voices in the Israeli political establishment and society, provide irrefutable evidence that the moral compass is lost, the experts said. Previous warnings unheeded In February 2024, a number of experts had expressed grave concern regarding the reports of sexual and other forms of gender-based violence committed against Palestinian women and girls in Israeli detention. Francesca Albanese, the Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, investigated Israels detention practices in 2023 and called on UN Member States to intervene and the International Criminal Court (ICC) to promptly investigate what appeared to be a consolidated crime against humanity. On Monday, the experts said they regretted this call was not heeded. Torture practices are irredeemably unlawful and constitute international crimes yet form part of the modus operandi of Israels notorious detention and torture system, the experts warned. These practices are intended to punish Palestinians for resisting occupation and seek to destroy them individually and collectively. De facto hostages Most Palestinian detainees are de facto hostages of an unlawful occupation, the experts said, referring to the July 2024 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the legal consequences of Israels occupation of Palestinian territory. As such, the experts called for oversight and accountability over all Israeli practices and policies in the territory. Israels genocidal destruction in Gaza, which is spreading across the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, serves as the backdrop to its abusive detention programme today, the experts said. UN Member States must end their silence Decrying the silence by Member States following the emergence of testimonies and reports of alleged maltreatment and torture, the experts called for greater pressure to be applied to Israel with a view to implementing a cogent system of access, monitoring and protection of Palestinian detainees. The Human Rights Council must urgently demand the deployment of special procedures mandate holders and the Commission of Inquiry, to facilities holding Palestinians, they said. Special Rapporteurs and other UN rights experts are part of what is known as the Special Procedures. Serving in their individual capacity, they are not UN staff and do not receive a salary for their work. India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar speaking in his country's Parliament on Bangladesh situation on Tuesday | Photo courtesy: Screenshot grab from IBNS YouTube video Former Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty has said India will continue monitoring the developments in the neighbouring nation after PM Sheikh Hasina resigned and escaped from the country amid violent anti-government protests. He said the government should also look forward to work with the new government. Political leaders change but the countries have long-term interests which will not go away. Bangladesh is a neighbour with which we have had good relations. If you look at the history of Indias relations with Bangladesh we have dealt with every government including military dictators. We will be dealing with Bangladesh as it is an important country for us. India will look forward to working whichever new government comes in Bangladesh, Chakravarty told ANI. He said Bangladesh is an important country for India and we have a lot to do with the neighbouring country. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah met with Foreign Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval Tuesday to discuss the security situation in the country amid the massive turmoil in Bangladesh. On Monday, Sheikh Hasina resigned from the post of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh and came to Delhi. Since then, security has been strengthened in border areas. The situation in border areas has been delicate given the ongoing violence in the neighbouring country. While the authorities have been directed to keep an eye on illegal migration, there is also concern about the condition of the Indians living in Bangladesh and the minorities of the Muslim-majority nation. In a statement to the Lok Sabha earlier in the day, Jaishankar said there are around 19,000 Indian nationals living in Bangladesh, around 9,000 of whom are students. The bulk of students have already returned to India in the month of July on the advice of the High Commission. The ministry, he said, has been in "close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions". Photo Courtesy: SSg Ambay PA / PAO Armed Forces of the Philippines Philippines Secretary of National Defence Gilberto Teodoro and German Federal Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius have committed to a defence agreement which focuses on enhancing strategies to promote peace and stability at a time when tension prevails over the South China Sea. The German leader visited Manila to meet Gilberto Teodoro and and enhance ties between the two countries. In a joint statement, the ministers said they strongly opposed any unilateral attempt to advance expansive claims, especially through force or coercion, alluding to recent incidents in the South China Sea, reported Arab News. Teodoro said the conflict in South China Sea was influenced by only one factor which is China's illegal and unilateral attempt to appropriate most of South China Sea as their internal waters. The Philippines is not provoking China. We do not seek war, yet we are mandated not only by our constitution but as an obligation to our countrymen to protect whatever areas, whether be jurisdiction or rights, that rightfully belong to the exclusive benefit of Filipinos," the Minister was quoted as saying by Arab News. This year also commemorates the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Germany. In images Yahya Sinwar (Wikimedia Commons) & Gaza war destruction (Videograb from X) Gaza/IBNS: Hamas Tuesday named Gaza Strip chief Yahya Sinwar as its new political leader after his predecessor Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran last week, media reports said. "The Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas announces the selection of leader Yahya Sinwar as the head of the political bureau of the movement," a statement from the group said. Following the announcement, Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades, said it fired a barrage of rockets from the Gaza Strip toward Israel. The Israeli military and officials accuse Sinwar of being one of the masterminds of the October 7 attack on Israel, making him one of the country's most wanted operatives. His appointment as Hama's new chief comes less than a week after Haniyeh was killed in Tehran. Iran and Hamas have blamed Israel for his assassination. Israel has declined to comment on the killing. Hamas's October 7 attack resulted in the death of 1,198 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. During the attack, Hamas also seized 251 people, 111 of whom are still held captive in Gaza, including 39 the military says are dead. Photo Courtesy: Pakistan Unsplash A German tourist was robbed when he was camping in Lahore city of Pakistan recently. The victim was identified as 27-year-old Berg Florian. He was visiting Pakistan from Diyarbakir and was campaigning close to Lahore airport when the incident happened. According to the FIR, the victim was sleeping in his tent mounted in a park near Guldasht Town, when two armed men approached, beat him, and stole his iPhone, cash, and a camera valued at approximately Rs 500,000, ARY News reported. After the robbery incident, the man tried to reach the Rangers office on his bicycle but he collapsed on his way due to injury. Locals rushed him to Rangers hospital for treatment. The tourist also alleged that he informed about the robbery incident to the patrolling Dolphin Squad, but they demanded money from him, the news channel reported. After the victim requested, the Lahore Police registered a case under the provisions of theft, applying Section 382 of The Pakistan Penal Code [Theft after preparation made causing death, hurt or restraint in order to the committing of the theft]. Photo courtesy: Facebook/Khaleda Zia Dhaka/IBNS: Bangladeshi President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Monday ordered the release of jailed former Prime Minister and key opposition leader Khaleda Zia, hours after her arch-rival Sheikh Hasina was forced to flee the country amid spiralling protests and transfer of power to the army. In a statement, the president's press team said a meeting led by Shahabuddin had "decided unanimously to free Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia immediately". Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, along with the head of the navy and airforce, and top leaders of several opposition parties including the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami party, attended the meeting. "The meeting has also decided to free all the people who have been arrested during the student protests," the statement added. "The meeting decided to form an interim government immediately," it added. Khaleda Zia, 78, is in poor health and confined to a hospital after she was sentenced to 17 years in prison for graft in 2018. Earlier Monday, the 76-year-old five-time Prime Minister was forced to resign from her position after more than 300 people died in violent protests over a quota for government jobs in that country. On Monday, the Bangladesh Army, which gave Sheikh Hasina 45 minutes to resign after her government couldn't control the violence, took charge of the country. In a televised address Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the military will form an "interim government" and told protesters to stand down. "There is a crisis. I have met Opposition leaders and we have decided to form an interim government to run this country. I take all responsibility and promise to protect your life and property. Your demands will be fulfilled. Please stop the violence," the Army chief said. Flanked by the Naval and Air Force Chiefs, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman says the honourable PM has resigned and that an interim government will take over. pic.twitter.com/Z1pqaUeQoq Man Aman Singh Chhina (@manaman_chhina) August 5, 2024 Earlier in the day protesters broke into Gonobhaban - the Dhaka residence of the Prime Minister. According to local media, as many as 400,000 protesters were on the streets but it was impossible to verify the figure. Soldiers and police with armoured vehicles had barricaded routes to Hasina's office with barbed wire, media reports said, but vast crowds flooded the streets, tearing down barriers. However, by then Hasina fled the country. She landed at the Hindon Air Force base in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad. There are no reports yet if Modi will meet Hasina. Sheikh Hasina is expected to leave for London later where she may seek political asylum, NDTV reported quoting sources. Sources told news agency ANI Sheikh Hasina's plane, a Bangladesh Air Force C-130 military transport, is parked near the Indian Air Force's C-17 and C-130J Super Hercules aircraft hangars. Photo Courtesy: PID Bangladesh/Wikimedia Commons Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has declared the dissolution of the Parliament and the formation of an interim government to facilitate prompt elections in the country which is witnessing severe anti-government protests that triggered former PM Sheikh Hasina's resignation. Hasina, the longest serving Prime Miister of the country who returned to power for another term following a landslide victory in the general polls this year, fled the country amid violent protests and arrived in India on Monday. In his address to the nation, the President said an interim government would be formed as soon as possible. He also ordered the release of jailed former Prime Minister and key opposition leader and Sheikh Hasina's political rival Khaleda Zia. The President also ordered the release of students who were arrested during the recent job quota movement. Meanwhile, the Anti-Discriminatory Student Movement, the organizers of the recent protest movement in the nation, proposed Nobel Laureate Dr Mohammad Yunus to be made chief advisor of the interim government. What happened on Monday? Earlier Monday, the 76-year-old five-time Prime Minister was forced to resign from her position after more than 300 people died in violent protests over a quota for government jobs in that country. The Bangladesh Army, which gave Sheikh Hasina 45 minutes to resign after her government couldn't control the violence, took charge of the country. In a televised address Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the military will form an "interim government" and told protesters to stand down. "There is a crisis. I have met Opposition leaders and we have decided to form an interim government to run this country. I take all responsibility and promise to protect your life and property. Your demands will be fulfilled. Please stop the violence," the Army chief said. Protesters attack Gonobhaban After Sheikh Hasina fled the nation, protesters entered the Ganobhaban and looted the PM's official residence. They were seen carrying clothes, including Sheikh Hasina's sarees, and other articles from the house. Sheikh Hasina taken to safe house After escaping the nation amid violence, Sheikh Hasina arrived at the Hindon airbase in India's Ghaziabad city. After arriving in India he met National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Sources told The Indian Express she was taken to a safe house, and is likely to travel to the United Kingdom (UK). Sheikh Hasina is expected to leave for London later where she may seek political asylum, NDTV reported quoting sources. Hindu minorities targeted Two Hindu councillors were among the 100 people killed in Sundays violent clashes across Bangladesh that also witnessed the vandalisation of several homes and temples of Hindus, including ISKCON and Kali temples, forcing devotees to seek shelter, local media reports said. According to The Daily Star, Haradhan Roy, a member of the Parshuram Thana Awami League and the councillor of Ward 4 in Rangpur City Corporation, was shot dead during Sunday's clashes. Another Hindu councillor from Rangpur, Kajal Roy, was also killed in the protests, reported The New Indian Express. Several unconfirmed videos and clips are currently circulating across social media platforms where HIndu houses are being seen attacked by fundamentalists in the Muslim-majority nation. Accoorfing to The Daily Star report, mobs targeted Hindu houses and business establishments in 27 districts of the country. Attack on Hindus.... pic.twitter.com/5QD4QnB71H Voice Of Bangladeshi Hindus (@hindu8789) August 5, 2024 Monindra Kumar Nath, senior joint general secretary of the Oikya Parishad, told the newspaper they never thought they would see such attacks on their community. "There are no areas or districts left where communal attacks have not taken place. We're continuously getting reports from different parts of the country about attacks on houses and business establishments," he said. Monindra Kumar Nath, senior joint general secretary of the Oikya Parishad, told the newspaper they never thought they would see such attacks on their community. They are trying to enter and attack Hindu houses. Muslims are entering Hindu houses where there is a beautiful Hindu girl. pic.twitter.com/VfouhCB48C Voice Of Bangladeshi Hindus (@hindu8789) August 5, 2024 "There are no areas or districts left where communal attacks have not taken place. We're continuously getting reports from different parts of the country about attacks on houses and business establishments," he said. Photo courtesy: PID Bangladesh, Taslima Nasreen X handle Kolkata/IBNS: Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen has pointed out an "irony" in her dig at Sheikh Hasina, who resigned as the Prime Minister and fled the country in the face of violent anti-quota protests in Dhaka. Taslima said Hasina faced the same fate which she was made to accept in 1999. The exiled author wrote on X, "Hasina in order to please Islamists threw me out of my country in 1999 after I entered Bangladesh to see my mother in her deathbed and never allowed me to enter the country again. "The same Islamists have been in the student movement who forced Hasina to leave the country today." Hasina in order to please Islamists threw me out of my country in 1999 after I entered Bangladesh to see my mother in her deathbed and never allowed me to enter the country again. The same Islamists have been in the student movement who forced Hasina to leave the country today. taslima nasreen (@taslimanasreen) August 5, 2024 Taslima, who is known for writing on women's oppression and communalism, has been banned from both Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal. She has been living in multiple exiles since 1994 with several fatwas calling for her death. Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has declared the dissolution of the Parliament and the formation of an interim government to facilitate prompt elections in the country which is witnessing severe anti-government protests that triggered former PM Sheikh Hasina's resignation. Hasina, the longest serving Prime Minister of the country who returned to power for another term following a landslide victory in the general polls this year, fled the country amid violent anti-quota protests and arrived in India on Monday. Photo Courtesy: PID Bangladesh/Wikimedia Commons Reportedly, Hasina, who shares good terms with New Delhi, is still in India. After escaping the nation amid violence, Sheikh Hasina arrived at the Hindon airbase in India's Ghaziabad city. After arriving in India he met National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Sources told The Indian Express she was taken to a safe house, and is likely to travel to the United Kingdom (UK). What happened on Monday? On Monday, the 76-year-old five-time Prime Minister was forced to resign from her position after more than 300 people died in violent protests over a quota for government jobs in that country. The Bangladesh Army, which gave Sheikh Hasina 45 minutes to resign after her government couldn't control the violence, took charge of the country. In a televised address Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the military will form an "interim government" and told protesters to stand down. "There is a crisis. I have met Opposition leaders and we have decided to form an interim government to run this country. I take all responsibility and promise to protect your life and property. Your demands will be fulfilled. Please stop the violence," the Army chief said. Photo courtesy: University of Salford Press Office / Creative Commons Wikipedia Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has agreed to lead the interim government in Bangladesh as the chief adviser, a day after Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country amid violent anti-government protests which left over 100 people dead so far, leaving a political vacuum in the nation. "When I was contacted on behalf of the students, I didn't agree at first. I told them I have a lot of work to finish. But the students repeatedly requested me," a source quoted Yunus as saying to Bangladesh's leading newspaper The Daily Star. "If the students can sacrifice so much, if the people of the country can sacrifice so much, then I also have some responsibility. Then I told the students that I can take the responsibility," the Grameen Bank founder said. Where is Yunus now? Yunus is currently in Paris. He is visiting the French city as a special guest invited by the Olympic Committee. The Daily Star reported he is expected to return to Bangladesh 'as soon as possible'. The Anti-Discriminatory Student Movement, the organizers of the recent protest movement in the nation, proposed Nobel Laureate Dr Mohammad Yunus to be made chief advisor of the interim government. Earlier, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has declared the dissolution of the Parliament and the formation of an interim government to facilitate prompt elections in the country. In his address to the nation, the President said an interim government would be formed as soon as possible. He also ordered the release of jailed former Prime Minister and key opposition leader and Sheikh Hasina's political rival Khaleda Zia. The President also ordered the release of students who were arrested during the recent job quota movement. Key facts about Muhammad Yunus Born in Chittagong on June 28, 1940, Yunus and Grameen Bank were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for 2006 for their work to create economic and social development from below. In his career, Muhammad Yunus received a Fulbright Scholarship from the US State Department. He also received the United States Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2010. In 2012, he became Chancellor of Glasgow Caledonian University in Scotland, a position he held until 2018. Previously, he was a professor of economics at Chittagong University in Bangladesh. Yunus also served on the board of directors of the United Nations Foundation, a public charity to support UN causes, from 1998 to 2021. Yunus has long been regarded as Hasina's political rival. Also known as the "banker to the poor", Yunus is credited for pulling millions of people out of poverty with his use of microloans. A Bangladesh court sentenced him to six months in prison in January for violating the nation's labour laws. Hasina had often accused him of 'sucking blood' from the poor. Photo Courtesy: Unsplash The Baloch community of Germany recently demonstrated in Hannover against the ongoing atrocities by Pakistani security forces in Balochistan province. A large number of members participated in the demonstration in the German city. The protesters carried out placards condemning the recent crackdown on the Baloch Yakjheti Committee (BYC) and the extreme state violence against peaceful Baloch protesters in Balochistan, reported ANI. After commencing their journey in the central point in the city, the protesters marched ahead through the main streets of Hannover. The long march ended in Arnst August Platz. A protester, Abdul Wajid Baloch, was quoted as saying by ANI, Pakistani forces opened fire on protesters during the Baloch National Gathering on 28th of July, which was organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee in Gwadar. The situation in Balochistan is extremely tense and dangerous, asserting that the region is under complete siege." The protester said: "The situation in Gwadar is also dire. Thousands of military personnel have brutally attacked the Baloch National Gathering, firing directly on public." Baloch said: "The situation is a complete war-like scenario between the innocent, unarmed Baloch and the powerful, ruthless Pakistani military. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee has called for widespread resistance. Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal is a delight for his fans, not just on the big screen but on his social media too. His Instagram game is too strong. From giving us latest Punjabi songs to jam to the food items he relishes, Vicky makes sure to give a glimpse of his day to day life with his followers. Today is also that special day. Vicky took sometime out to enjoy the delicious seviyan his mother made. Posting an Instagram story of the seviyan with the Tareefan story, Vicky wrote, "Maa ke haath ki seviyan.". Well, the song clearly means Vicky loves the food his mother prepares. Credit: Vicky Kaushal/ Instagram Seviyan, which is also called vermicilli, quite simple to prepare. After seeing Vicky's post, we started craving for the dessert too. And if you are also craving the sweet dish like us and don't know how to make the perfect one. We're here to guide you. Here's an easy 3 step method to cook simple and tasty seviyaan. Ingredients 1 cup Vermicilli (seviyaan) 2 tbsp ghee or butter 2 cups milk 1/4 cup sugar. How to prepare First roast the seviyan over medium heat in a little bit of ghee/butter until they are light brown. Please make sure not to burn them. Then add milk to the seviyan and keep boiling it for 5-7 minutes. Add sugar and keep stirring until the sugar is dissolved and the dessert looks nice and creamy. Voila, enjoy the seviyaan just like Vicky is right now! You're welcome. For more such stories on food, wellness and health, follow us on Indiatimes Lifestyle Starring Fawad Khan and Sana Saeed, Pakistan's TV series Barzakh, which started streaming in July, will be withdrawn from Youtube Pakistan after August 9, 2024. Wondering what went wrong? It is not the falling TRP of the show that led to this decision by the maekrs but the criticism from Pakistani audiences for its portrayal of queer love. The show has sparked controversy all over social media. The makers have released a statement announcing the show's last date. Fawad Khan's Barzakh to be removed from YouTube: Here's all about the controversy According to the statement by the makers, Barzakh will be withdrawn from "YouTube Pakistan, effective August 9, 2024." They said the decision has been taken to "honour our audiences without causing alienation." Well, how did the LGBTQIA theme controversy start? In the third episode of Barzakh, Saifullah (played by Fawad M. Khan) almost kisses another character named Lorendo in the show, played by actor Franco Giusti. The moment after the episode aired, a section of the audience called out the scene and asked to ban the show as soon as possible. Since Pakistan is an Islamic country, a portion of its audience has criticised the fact that the show is endorsing LGBTQIA+ themes. Islam does not support LGBTQIA+ thoughts and themes. Also Read: Call Me Bae OTT release date Prime Video: When to watch Ananya Panday's series Here's how the Barzakh fans are reacting to the announcement: One of the X (former Twitter) users wrote, "Pakistanis can never stop bringing religion into art, barzakh was never depicting any religion, culture or lifestyle. Why's so hard to understand that it's a fictional show promoting life mysteries, enduring power of love and afterlife WHY ARE PEOPLE SO WEIRD MAN." pakistanis can never stop bringing religion into art, barzakh was never depicting any religion, culture or lifestyle. Why's so hard to understand that it's a fictional show promoting life mysteries, enduring power of love and afterlife WHY ARE PEOPLE SO WEIRD MAN https://t.co/GC4mKN21ZL kainat. (@starlvci3s_) August 6, 2024 Another user wrote, "It's #Barzakh day for the last time <3 Eternal hopefulness of the blank canvas." It's #Barzakh day for the last time <3 Eternal hopefulness of the blank canvas. pic.twitter.com/tWo6FcAbLV (@benimlemisinn) August 6, 2024 One user who loved the concept, appreciated the team behind the show and wrote,"#Barzakh is amazing. Thanks so much for sharing this magical story with us #AsimAbbasi and team." #Barzakh is amazing. Thanks so much for sharing this magical story with us #AsimAbbasi and team. https://t.co/Pd11IEvKE6 MianMian (@MianMia43809091) August 6, 2024 Can one still watch the show online in Pakistan? Yes, all of the episodes to date can be streamed until August 9 on YouTube Pakistan. The show will be available on Zee5 for Indian fans even after August 09. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Actress Anu Aggarwal was quite a rage back in the '90s. After the release of Aashiqui, also starring Rahut Roy, she became an overnight sensation. Soon after she starred in the film, she left her fans in shock with a topless scene in The Cloud Door, a short film which made it to the Cannes Film Festival. Recalling how scene was unplanned and unscripted, the actress revealed she had refused to do the scene at first. Anu Aggarwal on topless scene in The Cloud Door Anu, in an interview with Bollywood Bubble, said that when she read the script the scene wasn't a part of it. However, after 29 days of shoot, director Mani Kaul told her about the topless scene leaving her entirely shocked during the night shoot. "I was shocked. I asked, 'What do you mean?' I said, 'This wasnt in the script. Based on that, I wont do it.' It's not that I couldn't do it, but I chose not to." Here's why she did it anyway The actress then completed her 30-day shoot and came back to Mumbai. However, she sort of regretted her decision. A month later when the director called her to inform that the film had been selected for Cannes, he insisted the scene should be a part of the movie. "I was surprised and thought, What does it mean to him if I go topless? Finally, I agreed to do the scene and went back just to shoot that. It made me so sad because I felt that if it was about the film, I could have taken a break from it. If I was the lead, I would obviously cover myself up, but as an actor, this was a challenge, so I accepted it. I said, 'I will do it'". Did you know Anu Aggarwal underwent met with a tragic accident, following which she was in coma for almost 29 days. The doctors had given up on her but yoga helped her recover. Anu Aggrawal started her career as a model and VJ. She went on to appear in the Doordarshan series Isi Bahane, and later made her Bollywood debut with Aashiqui, which was a hit. Just when things were looking up she met with a car accident in 1999. Also Read: Aashiqui Fame Anu Aggarwal Recalls Horrific Car Accident That Had Put Her In Coma For 29 Days For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Months ago in May, a lot of Bollywood celebrities and influencers including Anurag Kashyap, Alia Bhatt, Priyanka Chopra, Triptii Dimri among others shared a social media post that read 'All eyes on Rafah' in solidarity with Palestine after the Israeli strike on Rafah. Now that Bangladesh is experiencing severe turmoil amid violent student protests killing many, and forcing Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee the country, only a few B-town stars have reacted. Bollywood's silence has sparked outrage on X (formerly called Twitter) and the hashtag 'All Eyes On Bangladesh Hindus' is now trending. From Rafah to Bangladesh, Bollywood celebs called out for selective activism Most people slamming the B-town stars are sharing a video of a Hindu woman pleading for safety highlighting the condition of minorities in the country. In the video, she reveals how her house has been vandalised and she is being asked to leave the country and go to India. "Rafah was 4,000 kms away. Bangladesh is next door. Where are you today Bollywood?" one of the users wrote. "Why are Bollywoods eyes closed now?" asked another user. "Reportedly Over 500 Hindus have been killed, 100s of Hindu women r@ped, and Dozens of Hindu temples have been burnt in Bangladesh. Ab kisi Bollywood celeb ki story or tweet nahi aane wale kya?" read another tweet. Meanwhile, some celebrities including Kangana Ranaut, Sonam Kapoor and Hansal Mehta among other have reacted to the situation in Bangladesh. While Sonam called the protests that have killed many "terrible" and urged people to pray for the country, Kangana Ranaut said that no one is safe in Muslim countries not even the Muslims. Filmmaker Hansal Mehta on the other hand remembered how his film Faraaz was banned in the country and criticised Sheikh Hasina's authoritarian rule. Credit: X For the unversed, the protests in Bangladesh began after students protested against the quota system that reserves 30 percent jobs in government jobs for families of veterans who fought in the 1971 liberation war. After almost a month, the protests escalated into a campaign that sought the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Eventually, she resigned and fleed the country amid growing violence. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Bangladesh is engulfed in protests and violence that began last month after students protested over the controversial quota system that reserves 30 percent jobs in government jobs for families of veterans who fought in the 1971 liberation war and demanded it to be scrapped. The protests escalated into a campaign and sought the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was in power for 15 years and had recently swept to a fourth straight term in January. The violence forced her to resign and flee the country. Amid the violent protests, here's what Bollywood celebrities Hansal Mehta, Kangana Ranaut and Sonam Kapoor have to say about the situation in the neighbouring country. Hansal Mehta, Kangana Ranaut and Sonam Kapoor react to Bangladesh protests Hansal Mehta In his long post on X (formerly called Twitter), Scam 1992 fame director Hansal Mehta criticised Sheikh Hasina's authoritarian rule as he recalled banning of his movie Faraaz in Bangladesh. The film's release was delayed for 18 months due to pressure and threats from officials, litigation, and police protection due to perceived threats. Hansal Mehta said that the government aimed to suppress the film for portraying them negatively, attempting to cover up their authoritarian rule and thus prevent criticism. Seeing the events unfold in Bangladesh reminds me of the Faraaz release saga. It is streaming globally on Netflix except in Bangladesh where it has been banned. The release of Faraaz based on the Holey Artisan Bakery, Dhaka attack of 2016 was sought to be stalled for nearly pic.twitter.com/dQIP9pF9P1 Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) August 5, 2024 Kangana Ranaut Kangana Ranaut said that she felt "honoured and flattered that honourable Prime Minister of Bangladesh feels safe in Bharat" and at the same time she also opined "No one is safe in Muslim countries not even Muslims themselves." Bharat is the original motherland of all Islamic Republics around us. We are honoured and flattered that honourable Prime Minister of Bangladesh feels safe in Bharat but all those who live in India and keep asking why Hindu Rashtra? Why Ram Rajya? Well it is evident why!!! No https://t.co/wMqlpBquUo Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) August 5, 2024 Sonam Kapoor Sonam Kapoor shared a post which said that 66 people died in a single day during the protests in Bangladesh and wrote, "This is terrible. Let us all pray for Bangladeshi people." Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has informed an all-party meeting on Aug 6 that India has offered support to former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina, who arrived in the country on the evening of Aug 5. It is said that she has been given time to time to determine her next steps, according to sources. During a briefing with political party leaders at Parliament House, Jaishankar stated that India is in contact with the Bangladesh Army to ensure the safety of over 10,000 Indian students in the country, reports PTI. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. While Indians called him Shah Rukh Khan of Bangladesh, people in our neighbouring country referred to SRK as Chunky Panday of Bollywood. Ananya Panday's father who is fondly called Akhri Pasta, a character from his film Housefull, was once a big rage in Bangladesh. There was a point when he shifted base to the country as he didn't get work in Bollywood. Why did Chunky Panday switch from Bollywood to Bangladesh? Chunky Panday said that he was left with no work for six months despite giving a superhit film Aankhen in 1993. When he got the offer to do a film in Bangladesh, he didn't say no. The film turned out to be the biggest blockbuster in the country and then he never looked back. Talking about this phase when Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan were rising to popularity in Bollywood, Chunky told IANS in 2018, "The money was good and I was desperately in need of money at that time, so I took the offer. It was a sort of stock gamble for me. But my first film became such a huge hit that I never looked back and worked there for five years until I got married in 1998." Back to Bollywood after marriage After he married Bhavna Panday, he took her to Bangladesh for honeymoon. It was she who suggested that while he should remember that people in the country love him immensely, at the same time, he should never forget his roots. He said, "When I came back, I learnt the value of success and learnt to cherish it. I had a game plan in mind, which was not there in the beginning. Maybe I was too young. There is a tendency to blame people, but you shouldnt. You are the creator of your success and failure." Hence, a year later, he decided to go back to his home country and try his luck once again. However, by then, Bollywood had forgotten him. Chunky however didn't give up. He went to people from office to office asking for work, which worked in his favour. He did some of the memorable roles after that. While Chunky was a big star in Bangladesh, Indian films however found it tough to release films in the country, which apparently didn't want Hindi films to ruin the business of their local films. Did you know Shah Rukh Khan's Pathaan became the first Hindi film to be released in the country, which is now facing violent protests after its PM Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country, after 50 years? Also Read: From Hansal Mehta to Sonam Kapoor, Bollywood reacts to Sheikh Hasina's arrival in India amid Bangladesh protests For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Hariyali Teej is an important Hindu festival celebrated on the third day of the Shukla Paksha in the Sawan (Shravan) month. It marks the union of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati. This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially by women in states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand, on Hariyali Teej, married women fast for the well-being of their husbands. Hariyali Teej 2024 Date and Puja Timings Hariyali Teej is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to Drik Panchang, it occurs on the Sukla Paksha Tritiya in the Sawan month, usually two days before Nag Panchami. In 2024, Hariyali Teej will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 7. Hariyali Teej Puja Timings Hariyali Teej Date Wednesday, August 7, 2024 Tritiya Tithi Begins 07:52 PM on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 Tritiya Tithi Ends 10:05 PM on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 Significance of Hariyali Teej Credit: Freepik Hariyali Teej is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It falls during the Sawan month, a holy time for observing fasts in their honour. Also known as Shravana Teej or simply Teej, this festival is celebrated by women in various parts of India and Nepal. It typically takes place in the monsoon season, around July-August, and holds significant cultural and religious importance, especially for married women. Rituals of Hariyali Teej Heres what typically happens during Hariyali Teej: Gathering and Celebrations: Women come together, sing folk songs, and dance traditional dances like the Teej dance. They enjoy swinging on beautifully decorated swings and apply mehndi (henna) on their hands and feet. Fasting and Worship: Devotees observe a fast to honour Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, also known as Uma Maheshwar. Gifts and Traditions: Married women receive gifts from their in-laws, including traditional clothing, bangles, henna, sindoor (vermilion), and sweets. They usually wear green lehengas or saris, symbolizing marriage and auspiciousness. Customs: Women visit their parental homes to celebrate and enjoy delicious food. In Rajasthan, processions of Goddess Parvati or Teej Mata are taken out in the streets. In Haryana, its an official holiday with various celebrations, while in Punjab, women perform Gidda. In Chandigarh, students present cultural events and plays. Henna and Swings: Applying henna is central to the celebration. Darker henna is believed to reflect the depth of affection from husbands. Some women write their beloveds names using henna. Swings are hung on Banyan tree branches or at homes, as the Banyan tree is considered sacred. Nirjala Vrat: Women observe a rigorous fast without food or water, which ends with moon worship and breaking the fast. They pray for their husband's prosperity and well-being. Religious Activities: Idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are worshipped with devotional songs. In Vrindavan, Krishna Mandirs celebrate with swings and water showers, marking the arrival of monsoons. Difference Between Hariyali Teej and Hartalika Teej Credit: Freepik Hariyali Teej: This festival celebrates the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It takes place on Shukla Paksha Tritiya or two days before Nag Panchami. Women wear new green clothes and bangles, fast, and observe a Nirjal Vrat all day. Hartalika Teej: According to mythology, Goddess Parvatis father wanted her to marry Lord Vishnu. Parvati, however, wanted Lord Shiva. To avoid the marriage with Vishnu, she fled to a forest with the help of her friends. There, she prayed to Shiva, who eventually accepted her devotion and agreed to marry her. Hartalika Teej marks this event. When is Kajari Teej? Kajari Teej, also known as Badi Teej, will be observed on Thursday, August 22, 2024. This vibrant festival is celebrated in both the Southern and Northern regions of India, including states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh. Celebrating Kajari Teej Kajari Teej marks the arrival of the monsoon season and is a significant festival in these regions. The city of Bundi in Rajasthan is especially famous for its Kajari Teej celebrations. During the festival, Bundi is beautifully decorated, and Teej Mata processions are paraded through the streets, adding to the festive atmosphere. This celebration not only welcomes the monsoon but also brings communities together to participate in various cultural activities and rituals. When is Hartalika Teej? Hartalika Teej will be observed on Friday, September 6, 2024. This festival spans three days in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. Celebrating Hartalika Teej Hartalika Teej is a significant festival where both married women and unmarried girls pray to Teej Mata, who is Goddess Parvati. During these three days, participants observe a waterless fast and engage in worship to seek blessings for a good husband, much like Lord Shiva. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Bihar. It is believed that Goddess Parvati fulfills the desires of those who fast and worship diligently during Hartalika Teej. FAQs: Q. When is Hariyali Teej in 2023? In 2023, Hariyali Teej was celebrated on Wednesday, August 7. Q. What is Hartalika Teej? Hartalika Teej is rooted in Indian mythology, recounting the story of Goddess Parvati. Her father wished for her to marry Lord Vishnu, but she desired Lord Shiva as her husband. On the day of the proposed marriage, Parvati's friends help her escape to a dense forest to avoid the wedding with Vishnu. There, she prayed fervently to Lord Shiva, who was moved by her devotion and appeared before her. He accepted her plea, and they eventually married. This day, known as Hartalika Teej, marks the acceptance of Parvati by Shiva. Q. What is Hariyali Teej? Hariyali Teej is a significant Hindu festival that commemorates the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is observed on Shukla Paksha Tritiya, which falls two days before Naga Panchami. Q. Why is Hariyali Teej Celebrated? Hariyali Teej, also called Sindhara Teej, Chhoti Teej, or Shravana Teej, marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This festival celebrates their reunion and the bond they share, highlighting the importance of their marriage in Hindu tradition. Q. What is the Speciality of Hariyali Teej? Hariyali Teej is celebrated to honor the reunion of Shiva and Parvati. The festival remembers the day when Shiva accepted Parvati as his wife after her years of devotion and austerity. Parvati, known as Teej Mata, underwent 108 births before being accepted by Shiva. Q. Do Punjabis Celebrate Hariyali Teej? Yes, Hariyali Teej is celebrated with great enthusiasm in North India, including Punjab and Rajasthan. In Punjab, it is known as Teeyan, while in Rajasthan, it is called Shingara Teej. Q. Can Unmarried Girls Observe Teej? While Hariyali Teej is traditionally observed by married women for the well-being of their husbands, unmarried girls also participate in the festival in some regions to pray for a desirable groom. Q. Who is the God of the Teej Festival? The Teej festival, including Hariyali Teej, Kajari Teej, and Hartalika Teej, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Married women seek their blessings for a happy and prosperous married life during these celebrations. Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available. For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events. In a heartwarming display of unity during turbulent times, the Muslim community in Bangladesh has been actively guarding Hindu temples, as shared in a popular Reddit thread on r/bangladesh. The thread has drawn numerous expressions of gratitude, with one user stating, "This is the true nature of free people. Rise up, Bangladesh against all miscreants," while another remarked, "Look what we can do when we are united." The sentiment of solidarity is further echoed in another users comment: "Save Bangladesh guys." #Bangladesh: Students were seen protecting Temples and minorities from attacks in Bangladesh. The footage is from Dhakeshwari Mandir in #Dhaka taken around 3 am.#AllEyesOnBangladeshiHindus #SheikhMujiburRahman pic.twitter.com/k5POYn5K41 Zayed Khan (@thisiszayedkhan) August 6, 2024 Numerous posts on X, formerly known as Twitter, have also spotlighted how people from Muslim community were vigilant around 3 am to safeguard Dhakeshwari Mandir in Dhaka. Attack on Hindu community However, the broader situation in Bangladesh remains fraught with violence following the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who resigned and fled to India amidst escalating protests. BREAKING: Bangladeshi Islamists have set the Hindu Notun Kali Temple on fire in Moulvibazar Hindus are beaten Hindu shops are looted Hindu homes are vandalised Hindu temples are burned down The Islamists are using the chaos in Bangladesh to attack the Hindu community pic.twitter.com/JyhYqrNs74 Visegrad 24 (@visegrad24) August 5, 2024 These protests, initially sparked by a contentious government job quota system, rapidly evolved into widespread unrest, particularly after Hasina labeled protesting students as "Razakars." BREAKING: Islamists attack a Hindu village in Bangladesh. They surround the homes and threaten the people inside. At the end of the video, they enter the house and lead the Hindus out, rounding them up and forcing them out of the village pic.twitter.com/ZLIOiLZIRJ Visegrad 24 (@visegrad24) August 5, 2024 This term, coupled with her perceived proximity to India, exacerbated tensions, leading to violent attacks on the Hindu community. ISCKON| Credit: X Extremists are exploiting the chaos, targeting Hindu homes, abducting women, and setting fire to places of worship, including an ISKCON and a Kali temple. The violence has not spared even community leaders, with Hindu councillor Haradhan Roy from the Rangpur City Corporation reported among the deceased. Also Read: Sheikh Hasina resigns as Bangladesh PM amid crisis, lands in India, echoing 1975 shelter incident Bangladesh crisis The crisis deepened when protesters overran the Gono Bhaban, Hasina's official residence, immediately after her exit. The military's subsequent intervention, led by General Waker-Uz-Zaman, saw the establishment of an interim government. Amidst this, the nation observed a holiday intended to dampen the unrest, but the attacks against Hindus continued. Also Read: Astrologer goes viral for predicting Sheikh Hasina's political crisis in 2023: Here's what he had said This surge of violence, catalyzed by anti-Hindu sentiments that flared up after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 2021 visit, has plunged the nation into a severe crisis. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. It has been a week since a devastating landslide hit parts of Kerala's hill district of Wayanad. More than 350 people have been killed, thousands have been displaced, and many more are still unaccounted fora week after the worst natural disaster in Kerala's history. With one week passing, the hope of finding more survivors is slowly fading, and the focus is turning toward the rehabilitation of the thousands of survivors who have lost their loved ones and a lifetime's worth of savings. CREDIT: PTI Rebuilding Wayanad after landslide People from Kerala and beyond, including celebrities, are chipping in with their contributions to rebuild Wayanad. While big donations from celebrities and industrialists have made headlines, there are many small yet equally praiseworthy contributions. Also read: Pet dog and owner share heartwarming reunion 6 days after Wayanad landslides Adav, a Class I student from Kerala's Idukki District, is one such individual who, despite his young age, is receiving praise for his compassion. Idukki District Collector, V. Vigneshwari IAS, recently shared the boy's story on her official Facebook page. CREDIT: DISTRICT COLLECTOR, IDUKKI Class I student donates his piggy bank According to the 2015 batch Kerala cadre IAS officer, Adav, a Class I student, learned about the devastating landslide in Wayanad from TV and newspapers. He recently visited the Collector's Office with his piggy bank, which contained his savings from gifts and pocket money. Adav wanted to donate his piggy bank savings to the Kerala Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF). "I felt very happy... Kindness, compassion, and the attitude to help are also in the blood of the new generation," the IAS officer wrote in her post. Also read: Ex-Indian Army captures soldiers' heroic rescue efforts amid Wayanad landslide CREDIT: BCCL Wayanad landslide aftermath The entire villages of Mundakkai, Chooralmala, and Attamala were washed away in the landslide on July 30. According to district officials, as many as 2,514 people belonging to 723 families are currently housed in relief camps. Among them, 943 are men, 972 are women, and 599 are children. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. Bangladesh has been pushed into a state of uncertainty after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned from her post and fled to India, following protests by several student groups. Hasina, who has been in power in Bangladesh since 2009, gave in to the pressure from the Army, which gave her an ultimatum to step down following the months-long protests that have left over 300 protesters dead. CREDIT: REUTERS Interim government in Bangladesh Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman on Monday announced the resignation of PM Hasina and said that he was "taking full responsibility" for the country. He also mentioned that an interim government would be taking over, without specifying whether and what role the military will be playing in the new administration. Also read: Astrologer goes viral for predicting Sheikh Hasina's political crisis in 2023 CREDIT: PTI Who is Muhammad Yunus As discussions about the interim government gain momentum, a familiar name has resurfaced. Protesters have suggested Muhammad Yunus to head the interim government. The 84-year-old Yunus is arguably the most famous Bangladeshi internationally. The economist is the founder of Grameen Bank, a micro-finance bank established in 1983. CREDIT: GRAMEEN BANK Muhammad Yunus's influence on Bangladesh The microfinance system helped millions of Bangladeshis out of poverty and was replicated across the world. Yunus was awarded the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize, along with Grameen Bank, for their efforts to create economic and social development. Political ambitions and fallout with Hasina Despite his global recognition and proven track record in the fields of economics and academia, Yunus had a fallout with Hasina over what was perceived as his political ambitions. In 2006, he and a group of prominent civil society activists came together with the aim of cleaning up politics. He even wrote an open letter seeking public opinion on forming a political party. CREDIT: AP While he indeed ended up announcing a political party called Nagorik Shakti in 2007, it was short-lived, and within months, Yunus pulled the plug on his political career. Also read: The Indian Major Who Saved Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina's Family In 1971 War Meets Her Again Targeted by Hasina government However, the damage was already done, and the Bangladesh government slowly but steadily started interfering in matters related to Grameen Bank. CREDIT: AP This culminated in Yunus facing a probe over alleged misappropriation of funds and his eventual ouster from the Grameen Bank. Yunus rejected all the allegations and claimed that they were politically motivated. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. A junior investment banker who made history at the ongoing Paris Olympics by capturing the United States' first rowing gold has proposed to his girlfriend in the City of Love. Who is this Investment banker and Olympic champion? Justin Best and three of his US colleagues helped their country win its first-ever Olympic gold medal in rowing earlier this month. On Monday, he got down on one knee and proposed to his longtime girlfriend with 2,700 yellow roses. The majestic Eiffel Tower of Paris served as the background for his beautiful proposal. According to the news website Today, gold winner Justin Best proposed to Lainey Duncan on live television. What did the Banker say while proposing? Best, 26, asked Duncan to marry her, who was visibly in tears as she said yes | Image: Instagram "Lainey Olivia Duncan, you are the love of my life," the investment analyst and Olympic champion said as he dropped to his knee in front of Duncan, who appeared surprised by the proposal. "I knew you were unique because it was our first date. When I told you that I wanted to travel to the Olympics, you immediately answered, "Yes, absolutely." "Go for it." Also read: Viral video: Man's tram proposal met with cold crowd reaction, internet is not happy You are stunningly beautiful. ferociously intelligent. Your kindness is bent leaps and bounds I don't know anyone that doesn't love you, he added. This is going to be the easiest question of my life. I want to spend the rest of my life with you and raise a family together. Lainey, Will you marry me? Best, 26, asked Duncan, who was visibly in tears as she said yes. Why the yellow roses? Dozens of people held bouquets of yellow roses to cheer on the couple. The proposal included more than 2,700 roses, one for every day the pair spent together. Also read: 'I am all yours': UP man goes grand with a giant billboard proposal for girlfriend Best explained the rationale for the roses, saying, "Each yellow rose reflects a day you and I have spent together. Obviously, we communicated using Snapchat. Our streak is currently 2,738. So there are 2,738 yellow roses on Snapchat. "Our love has truly been immortalized." Check the proposal video here. What do you think about this? Tell us in the comments. For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram. Sheikh Hasinas net worth, income and more: Bangladeshs Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has recently resigned from her role, leading to a significant shift in the countrys political landscape. The military has taken control, and Sheikh Hasina was given a 45-minute ultimatum to step down and leave the country. Reports indicate that hundreds of protesters stormed her residence, prompting her to flee to India via military helicopter. Sheikh Hasina's Wealth and Financial Standing Sheikh Hasina, who served as Bangladeshs Prime Minister for the longest period in the countrys history, is known for her considerable wealth. She completed her fourth term as Prime Minister, with her party, the Bangladesh Awami League, winning 288 out of 300 parliamentary seats in the last elections. She has openly mentioned that this term might be her last, possibly due to the increasing opposition she faced. How Rich Is Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina? Credit: ANI Sheikh Hasinas net worth is substantial, reflecting her status as one of the worlds most powerful women. According to reports, her annual salary was approximately Rs 9,92,922, which equates to about Rs 86,000 per month. However, her income sources extend beyond her salary. In her declaration to the Election Commission, Sheikh Hasinas total wealth was reported to be Rs 4.36 crore. Her income for 2022 was Rs 1.07 crore takas, with significant earnings coming from the agricultural sector. This amount is notably higher compared to her earnings in 2018. Her income tax return shows a total income of Rs 1.91 crore. Her investments, including fixed deposits and savings bonds worth Rs 75 lakh, have substantially increased her financial standing. Property and Land Ownership Sheikh Hasina owns 6 acres of agricultural land and benefits from income generated through fish farming. Additionally, she possesses a car that was gifted to her. Her property and investments reflect her significant financial assets. Sheikh Hasina's family background Credit: Reutres Sheikh Hasina, the daughter of Bangladeshs founder and first president, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, has a notable background. On August 15, 1975, Rahman, his wife Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib, and their three sons were killed by army officials, but Sheikh Hasina and her younger sister, Sheikh Rehana, survived the attack. At the time, Hasina was abroad and lived in exile for six years before returning to Bangladesh in 1981. Sheikh Hasina married M.A. Wazed Mia in 1968, a Bangladeshi physicist and former chairman of the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission. Miah wrote several physics texts and political history books before he passed away in 2009 at the age of 67 after a long illness. Hasina and Miah had two children: a son, Sajeeb Wazed, and a daughter, Saima Wazed. Sajeeb is a businessman and politician in Bangladesh, serving as an advisor on information and communication technology to the prime minister. Just before Hasina's resignation, Sajeeb urged security forces on Facebook to protect her government from being overthrown. Sheikh Hasinas resignation marks a pivotal moment in Bangladeshs history. Despite her departure from office, her wealth and influence remain significant. With a diverse portfolio of income sources and substantial assets, Sheikh Hasina continues to be a prominent figure in global politics. FAQs: Q. What Did Sheikh Hasina Do for Bangladesh? Sheikh Hasina played a crucial role in Bangladeshs economic development over recent years. Initially recognized as a pro-democracy leader, she guided the country through significant economic progress. However, her tenure has faced criticism for becoming increasingly autocratic and suppressing opposition. Q. Who Is the New Prime Minister of Bangladesh? Following Sheikh Hasina's resignation and departure amid severe protests, army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has announced that an interim government will now manage Bangladesh. He called for calm and stability in the country. Q. Who Is the Longest-Serving Prime Minister of Bangladesh? Sheikh Hasina holds the record as Bangladesh's longest-serving prime minister. Her 15-year rule came to an end with her resignation and departure after widespread protests led to her government being overthrown. Q. Why Was Sheikh Hasina Removed? Sheikh Hasina resigned after student-led protests against a quota system for government jobs escalated into a broader movement demanding her removal. This marked the most significant political crisis of her 15-year leadership. Q. Who Gave Birth to Bangladesh? Bangladesh's independence was declared by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in March 1971, leading to the Bangladesh Liberation War. This war resulted in East Pakistan becoming the independent People's Republic of Bangladesh. Aegean Airlines has temporarily suspended all flights to and from Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan, as well as Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, and Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut, Lebanon, until The decision comes in response to escalating tensions in the Middle East region. Passengers who have booked flights to or from these destinations up until August 31st are being offered flexibility in managing their travel plans. They can change or cancel their flights without incurring additional costs by contacting Aegean Airlines via phone or through their website. Affected passengers will be eligible for either a refund or a credit voucher. The suspension of flights by Aegean Airlines aligns with similar actions taken by other airlines who are avoiding Iranian and Lebanese airspace due to recent developments. The airline is actively monitoring the situation and following guidance from relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of its passengers and crew. For further information and updates, passengers are advised to visit the Aegean Airlines website. iefimerida.gr The Fire Brigade is on high alert as a very high risk of wildfires (Category 4) is anticipated for several regions across Greece on Tuesday, August 6th. Areas under threat include Attica, Evia, Boeotia, Argolis, parts of Phthiotis and Corinthia, Heraklion and Lasithi in Crete, the Dodecanese Islands, Samos , Ikaria, Chios, Psara, and Lesvos. The General Secretariat for Civil Protection has issued a warning, urging relevant authorities and citizens to be prepared and take precautions. It is advised to avoid activities that could potentially ignite fires, such as burning dry vegetation, using machinery that generates sparks, outdoor grilling, smoking out bees, and carelessly discarding cigarettes. Burning fields is strictly prohibited during the fire season. Citizens are encouraged to report any fires immediately to the Fire Service by calling 199. iefimerida.gr They noted that democratic values and the European acquis demand that Albanian authorities assess and reply to allconcerning the integrity of the elections on Sunday. Deji Adeyanju, a human rights activist, has criticised demonstrators on Monday for raising the Russian flag and advocating for a military takeover. During protest, Adeyanju declared it was treasonous to wave the Russian flag and demand a military takeover. He directed security agents to arrest those waving the Russian flag and advocating for a military takeover. Advertisement Taking to his X platform Deji wrote: It is treason to be raising the Russian flag and calling for a military coup. That is not protest but treason. Security agencies should arrest those doing so. While we welcome those who didnt protest for once under Buharis terrible 8yrs of bad governance, treason is condemnable. READ MORE: Governors Will Use State Police To Kill President Seyi Law Warns It should be noted that while the protests continued in certain states, the Russian flag in red, blue, and white was noticed in Kano, Plateau, Kaduna, and Zamfara. The Russian Embassy responded to the development, emphasising that the nationwide hunger protesters activities do not reflect any official Russian government policy or attitude. SEE BELOW: The management of Bayero University in Kano has ordered an immediate suspension of all scheduled lectures. A statement signed by Lamara Garba, Deputy Registrar for Public Affairs, on behalf of the Acting Registrar, was released to The Punch on Monday, containing the directive. After a careful review of the situation in Kano State as a result of the National Protest, the University Management has directed that all scheduled lectures should be suspended forthwith, the statement said. Advertisement The Universitys administration also praised members of the university community for their support and cooperation in preserving a calm environment across its campuses. However, as soon as normalcy is restored, all academic and administrative operations will resume fully. READ MORE: Light Offence Like Spraying Naira Can Send You To Prison, Avoid It Bobrisky Warns, Following Release From Detention It asked students living on campus to be calm and law-abiding, as enough measures have been put in place to protect their safety. The Management, in particular, is concerned with the safety of lives and property and, therefore, enjoins the members of the University community to continue to be cautious about their movements outside the campuses to avoid exposure to any possible danger, the statement added. The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa has cautioned those flying the Russian flag, saying it is a treasonable offence. Recall that some agitators in the northern region of the country have been spotted waving the Russian flag as the demonstrations entered Day 5. INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that the protesters were calling for the help of Russias President, Vladimir Putin, to take over the leadership of the country, amid economic hardship. Advertisement Reacting to the development during a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in Abuja on Monday, CDS Musa, said that security agents are investigating those instigating the action and will take serious action against them. He added that the military had accepted democracy and regime change would never be allowed. Musa said: We wanted to brief Mr President on the situation on ground and we know that since the riot has started all the security agencies you can see all of us together. Initially, when the riot started they said it was a peaceful one but we have realised that there are individuals that are willing to take advantage of it to cause mayhem. We will not accept anyone pushing or taking any action, seemingly or for whatever reason to want to push for any change of government. Democracy is what we stand for democracy is what will continue to defend. For those of them flying flags and if youll see, a lot of them are kids being pushed to do that. Were following up with those ones are sponsoring them. READ MORE: Police Nab Producer Of Russian Flags For #EndBadGovernances Protesters In Kano Those are pushing them because you know, the flies were also made. We have identified those areas and we are going to take serious action against that. The President is clear on his instructions for us not to accept anyone that wants to disrupt the peace and tranquility of Nigeria. And we are all standing here together to show Nigerians that were working closely, we are working together with synergy to ensure that theres still peace and tranquility in Nigeria that we have assured Mr. President. Weve said that clearly that the military is going to step in when it is out of hand and you can see that for people supervising elements to push individuals to carry Russian flags in Nigeria, Nigeria sovereignty, that is crossing the red line and we will not accept that. And those ones who have done that will go in for the books and they want to be prosecuted. The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, has urged Nigerians to be patient and understanding, stating that the Federal Government need time and support for the impact of its economic policies to be seen by individuals. Abiodun also praised the states students and youths for following the law and using constructive engagement to express their unhappiness during the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests. The governor spoke on Monday at the inauguration of the Governing Council of the Sikiru Adetona College of Education, Science, and Technology in Ijebu-Ode, at the Exco Chamber, Governors Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the state capital. Advertisement Abiodun stated that, while the current economic situation is not unique to Nigeria, governments at both the federal and state levels have heard the protesting Nigerians voices. He said, Let me use this opportunity to appeal to and thank the youths and students of Ogun State for being law-abiding and for choosing constructive engagement to voice their discontent. We have heard your voices; your well-being and welfare are our priorities. Both the state and the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will work hand in glove and continue to be responsive to your demands. We only request more patience and understanding as the impact of the implementation of the policies to reposition the economy often takes a bit of time. The governor added that the challenges we face are not unique to us in Nigeria; they are global. By coming together, we can overcome these challenges. Meanwhile, Abiodun advised the newly inaugurated members of the council to use their enormous and collective experience to improve the college. He asked them to ensure that their tenure results in fresh and beneficial achievements that would complement his administrations efforts to create the states future. READ MORE: Sanwo-Olu Visits Onyeka Onwenus Family, Extends Heartfelt Condolences He stated that the council members must uphold their oath of office and justify the trust placed in them by the state government and the people of the state, and that the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, whose name the institution now bears, is extremely passionate about the institutions development and has begun to raise funds for it. In his remarks, Chairman of the Governing Council Mr. Wole Sowole thanked the governor for considering them worthy of the opportunity to lead the institution to the next level. The operatives of the Kaduna State Police command have arrested 39 suspects during #EndBadGovernances protest in the state. It was gathered that the arrested individuals were caught with Russia and Japanese flags during the nationwides demonstration which also took place the northern part of the country. READ MORE: Police Nab Producer Of Russian Flags For #EndBadGovernances Protesters In Kano Advertisement Reacting to the development, the Spokesperson of the Kaduna State Police command, Mansir Hassan, in a statement made available to the public on Monday, said that some suspects, including a tailor who made the flags have been detained. He added that the the arrested individuals were seen displaying Russian and Chinese flags during the protest. READ MORE: 13 Reportedly Killed As Security Agents Shoot, Brutalise Hungry Kano Protesters (Video) The statement reads: Among the damaged properties were a Hilux vehicle belonging to Kaduna State Vigilante Service (KADVS), a Toyota Yaris owned by a journalist, and the Zaria offices of the Kaduna State Traffic Law Enforcement Agency (KASTLEA), which was set on fire. The police, in collaboration with other security agencies, intervened to restore order. During the confrontation, the suspects became hostile and resorted to using stones, catapults, and other weapons. The police managed to calm the situation with the minimal use of tear gas. In total, 39 suspects were arrested at the scene, including a tailor who was sewing the foreign flags for the group. Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, former National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New Peoples Democratic Party (nPDP) has reacted to President Bola Ahmed Tinubus broadcast on the nationwide protest against hardship n Nigeria. The chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in a Tuesday statement, described it as shallow and grossly out of tune with the concerns that triggered the countrywide demonstration. According to him, Nigerians would have loved to hear the President outline the policy inclination of his administration in addressing their concerns including the costs incurred in running public offices and the lavish lifestyle of government functionaries. Advertisement His words: The President, in his broadcast, overlooked critical issues constituting a clog and stunting the growth of our country and her people such as high cost of governance, corruption, judicial rascality, corrupt electoral umpire, hunger, unemployment, harsh impact of fuel subsidy removal, armed banditry and general insecurity, high cost of living and more. So the broadcast seeks to discredit the substance of the ongoing protests and therefore rings hollow. Expressing disappointment over the Presidents display of levity in handling the volatile situation across the country, Eze said Tinubu has isolated himself from the objectives of the APC; a party founded on the ideals of a united, prosperous Nigeria. Eze maintained that as a one time spokesperson for nPDP and a member of the APC Media Legacy Project Committee, I must state that what Tinubu is currently superintending is not the vision of APC that most of us risked our lives to bring to be. We never brought APC to visit Nigeria and Nigerians with the level of hunger pervading our nation and warranting citizens to resort to suicide as the last resort to escaping the hardship neither did we bring APC to visit Nigeria and Nigerians with the level of insecurity that has enveloped us to such an extent where it becomes suicidal for farmers to go to their farms for whatever purpose. We never envisaged that our common effort to bring APC to salvage Nigeria will be so corrupted by the inordinate ambition of Tinubu to foist himself on the country as President and on this footing we owe Nigerians an unreserved apology. Our beloved country has turned to a laughing stock before the international community as most countries now advise their citizens to be wary of traveling to Nigeria, he added. Concerned by the level of corruption, Eze queried the justification for spending over N21 billion to build a house for the Vice President in the midst of the thriving hardship. The operatives of the Kano State Police Command have announced the arrest of a notorious armed robber, identified as Hassan Iliya with two AK-47 rifles and 47 rounds of live ammunition recovered from him. It was gathered that the suspect, who hailed from Alhazawa Village, Musawa Local Government Area, Katsina State was nabbed for terrorizing communities in Kano and neighboring states. Advertisement According to a statement by the Kano State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Kiyawa, the 35-year-old resident of Alhazawa Village in Musawa LGA, Katsina State, was apprehended on Monday, while attempting to escape on a motorcycle. The police said that it also recovered a total of 4.986m in cash believed to be part of the 15m stolen during a robbery in Yandadi Village, Kunchi Local Government Area. READ MORE: EndBadGovt: Kaduna Police Nab 39 Suspects With Russian Flags The statement reads: Despite the management of the ongoing Nationwide Protest, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Salman Dogo Garba, directed a team of detectives to conduct intelligence-led patrols to arrest the culprits and recover their operational weapons. On the same date at about 06:00am, the team arrested the principal suspect, Hassan Iliya, 35 years old, of Alhazawa Village, Musawa LGA, Katsina State, while attempting to escape on a motorcycle. The Commissioner of Police urges the public to remain patriotic, avoid acts capable of instigating violence, and remain vigilant. The Labour Partys (LP) candidate for president in the most recent election, Peter Obi, is not the kind of leader Nigeria needs, according to activist Deji Adeyanju. Some Nigerians have expressed interest in Peter Obi running for president again in 2027. However, during an interview on The Honest Bunch podcast shared on X Monday, Adeyanju stressed the importance of a strong leader, implying that Peter Obi does not meet this criteria. Advertisement He referred to Obi as just a decent and nice guy. He argued that Omoyele Sowore, the former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), represents the type of leader that Nigeria requires. READ MORE: Governors Will Use State Police To Kill President Seyi Law Warns He said, You dont need a Peter [Obi]. Peter is just a decent guy, nice guy Nigeria needs somebody that the idea of him coming alone, they [corrupt people] have already run away. Because the bad eggs in the system, in the police, army and civil service, they need somebody that would teach them a lesson for their bad behaviour. And right now theres no such person. If someone like Omoyele Sowore by divine providence becomes President; before he is sworn in, Nigeria will empty. All the politicians will run away. [Former Head of State] Abdulsalami Abubakar said it during a peace accord. He said, Sowore, if you enter [the presidency], all of us are finished. The Adamawa State Police Command has arrested a youth for allegedly kidnapping and murdering his younger cousin. According to a police statement released on Monday evening, 22-year-old Muhammed Mustapha of Madina, Mubi North Local Government Area, was apprehended on July 27, 2024, for the alleged abduction and murder of his eight-year-old cousin, Muhammed Auwal. The incident took place on July 25, 2024, in Mubi North LGAs Madina Ward, according to the statement. Advertisement The suspect kidnapped and held the victim in a hidden location and demanded a ransom of N2.8 million, the statement explained. It went on to say that the culprit inebriated the young boy and then strangled him to death. READ MORE: Why Are These God Of Men So Quiet? Charly Boy Questions Pastors Silence On #EndBadGovernance Protests The suspect was arrested on July 27, 2024, by detectives of the Command attached to the State Intelligence Department (SID) following a report by Harris Muhammed, the victims father, who doubles as an uncle to the suspect, the police stated. The suspect allegedly readily admitted to perpetrating the crime and blamed it on the intoxicated substance he consumed. The Plateau State Police Command has announced the arrest of 14 suspected offenders of the previously enforced 24-hour curfew in Jos, the state capital, and its surrounding areas. The state Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, made the announcement shortly after the State Security Council meeting in Jos on Monday. The state administration imposed a 24-hour curfew in Jos-Bukuru on Sunday in response to an outbreak of violence and looting by certain demonstrators in the states government area. Advertisement Adesina stated that miscreants hijacked a peaceful protest in the state, forcing the state administration to impose the 24-hour curfew. As you all know, the nationwide protest in the state was going on peacefully, until yesterday when some miscreants hijacked it and started looting public and private assets in the state. The state government immediately imposed a curfew to curtail activities of the miscreants; the curfew is still in place. Our resolution of this meeting is that we shall fully and vigorously enforce the curfew; anyone caught violating it will be prosecuted. So far, we have arrested 14 violators and we want to warn residents to stay indoors pending when the curfew is reviewed by government, he warned. The governors Special Adviser on Security, Brig.-Gen. Gakji Shipi (retd.), urged inhabitants of the state to avoid violence and give peace a chance. READ MORE: Why Are These God Of Men So Quiet? Charly Boy Questions Pastors Silence On #EndBadGovernance Protests This government is doing everything possible to ensure Plateau is peaceful but the bad eggs among us will not relent in tarnishing our good image. We want to appeal to all citizens to eschew all forms of violence and explore peaceful means of coexistence; our citizens should desist from incitement. As a government, we will continue to support the security agencies in their bid toward a peaceful and virile Plateau, Shipi said. According to NAN, the security meeting was presided over by Governor Caleb Mutfwang. NAN Omoyele Sowore, human rights activist has dissociated himself from #EndBadGovernance protesters calling for a military takeover in the country. He stated this via X on Monday just as he addressed speculations that the ongoing protests against nationwide hunger and hardship were intended to instigate a military coup. We must reiterate that our struggle for freedom, culminating in the current END BAD GOVERNANCE revolt, includes all institutions involved in promoting lousy governance in Nigeria, including the Nigerian military, he said. Advertisement The convener of #RevolutionNow movement further expressed concerns over some protesters in Kano and Kaduna waving Russian flags and calling for military intervention. Samuel Ortom READ ALSO: #EndBadGovernance Protesters Call For Help As Russian, Japanese Flags Spotted In Jos (Pictures) He also noted the presence of military personnel at protest sites, which he viewed with suspicion. We want to restate that we are diametrically opposed to military rule because the Nigerian military is as terrible or even more terrible than its civilian counterparts in Abuja, he added. Sowore firmly distanced the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria, #DaysOfRage, and #RevolutionNow movements from any advocacy for military rule, asserting that the current uprising aims to overcome the nations adversaries and bring about a new era free from the existing corrupt system. A former presidential spokesperson, Doyin Okupe, has posited that President Bola Ahmed Tinubus speech on the #EndBadGovernance protest was not disappointing. As such, he stated that Tinubu has the ability to handle the countrys economic woes. Advertisement Recall that on Sunday, the President told protesters demonstrating against the pervasive economic hardship, that he has heard them loud and clear. Tinubu also highlighted some of the steps his administration has taken to ameliorate the suffering. Reacting in a post via X on Monday, the former Director-General of the Labour Party presidential campaign council, said for the first time, the president clearly stated the precarious and daunting economic situation his administration met on ground. President Bola Tinubus speech has not disappointed Nigerians. He also amplified the strenuous efforts made by his government to reduce the prevailing crippling and stagnating debt servicing ratio from 97 percent of earned revenue to 68 percent. In truth, this has been the major cause of our present economic woes and sufferings. It is now self-evident that if the fuel subsidy was not removed, it would have been impossible for the government to function. READ ALSO: Protest In Lagos Now Illegal, Demonstrations Ended After Tinubus Address Police And the government will not be able to meet its obligations, without continuing the profligacy of massive and sustained borrowing to fund the subsequent national budgets, he said. Okupe added that the increase in minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000, huge investments in infrastructure and agriculture, efforts to reduce the rising cost of living by the Tinubu administration, are commendable. He added: This is through the temporary massive importation of foods and removal of tariffs and other import duties on foods, drugs and medical supplies, amongst others, for the next six months. I personally believe that this administrations scorecard or performance compares very well if not better than those of many administrations before it. I will therefore with all humility enjoin our youths and the citizens at large to exercise patience and restraint and embrace the opportunity for dialogue which Mr President has offered. This speech has cleared the erroneous and mischievous misinformation that President Bola Tinubu is incapable of handling the turbulence in our economy. This long awaited but endearing speech has rekindled our renewed hope for a brighter, better and prosperous future for all Nigerians. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Monday, directed security agencies to crack down on those flying the Russian flag in Nigeria amidst the hardship protest. Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, said this while briefing State House correspondents after the National Security Council meeting. According to him, the service chiefs briefed the President on the current security situation in the country. Advertisement He added that the briefing was necessitated by the ongoing nationwide protests which resulted into violence in some states. Initially, when the protest started they said it was a peaceful protest but we have realised that there are individuals that are willing to take advantage of it to cause mayhem. And we can see clearly what has happened since it has commenced. Criminals have taken over with a lot of looting taking place, stealing and all sorts happening, he said. The situation, he said, became worrisome as foreign flags were flown within the sovereignty of Nigeria, and that was totally unacceptable. We are warning in clear terms and the President has also said we should convey this, that we will not accept anybody, any individual flying any foreign flag in Nigeria. READ ALSO: Police Nab Producer Of Russian Flags For #EndBadGovernances Protesters In Kano That is a treasonable offence, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So, nobody should allow himself to be used by any individual, the CDS said. He furthered that those flying foreign flags were mainly children who were being pushed to do so. Were following up with those who are sponsoring them. Some people are pushing them because the flags were also made. We have identified those behind it and we are going to take serious action against them. The President is clear on his instructions for us not to accept anyone that wants to disrupt the peace and tranquility of Nigeria, he said. He said all security agencies were ready to defend democracy and the sovereignty of the nation. We will not accept anyone taking any action, for whatever reason to want to push for any change of government. Democracy is what we stand for, democracy is what we will continue to defend, he said. The CDS recalled he had earlier stated that the military would step in if the protests got out of hand. You can see that some subversive elements are pushing individuals to carry Russian flags in Nigeria; that is crossing the red line, and we will not accept that, Musa added. The meeting was attended by all the service chiefs, Vice President Kashim Shetima; Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser; and Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector-General of Police, among others. In the days after President Joe Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor, Black women and white men, cat ladies and content creators, LGBTQ folk and Latinos, turned to Zoom to connect, coordinate, and donate, raising more than $300 million for Harris campaign, injecting new hope into the 2024 presidential election. It was phenomenal. It was inspiring. It was galvanizing, said TaRessa Stovall, a Mount Laurel writer and one of the 44,000 people on the historic Win With Black Women call, kicking off the virtual fundraising trend ignited by Harris possible ascension to the presidency. It was like church, a full tent revival, and pep rally all at once. There was an immediate sense of community. Advertisement Just when we thought we were over Zoom, the meeting app has come into its own as an indispensable political tool. Fascinating, yes. But not far-fetched, as social media and easy-to-use apps continue to shape how we protest, politic, and advocate. Galvanizing support for candidates is as old as politics itself, said Sergei Kostiaev, assistant professor of political science at Drexel University. Politicians are and always will be searching for effective ways to talk about themselves, the issues, and prove their opponents wrong, he said. The nature of politics doesnt change; its how we mobilize and communicate that changes, Kostiaev added. Zoom is the latest tool. Thanks to the pandemic, most of us are well-versed with Zoom. We know how to have side convos in the chat and how to turn off the camera for bathroom breaks. Organizing Zooms can take less than a minute and hopping on one, seconds. We have Zoom in the background while washing dishes and tucking in the kids. And its a lot easier to show up to a virtual event and make a donation than find a babysitter, get gussied up in sparkles and heels, and make said donation. People dont have to leave their house and they still feel like they were in the political trenches, Kostiaev said. It provides access, satisfaction, and convenience. Zooms impact on Harris race has been astounding. Win With Black Women raised $1.5 million on its first VP Harris for President call. Fifty-three-thousand Black men raised $1.3 million on Zoom the following evening. That same week, 160,000 white women met on Zoom and raised $8.5 million and to Fox News chagrin, 180,000 White Dudes for Harris raised $4 million. Cat Ladies for Kamala hosted a Zoom Call to Action on Sunday evening, and according to Instagram, raised $320,000. Harris secured enough votes on Aug. 2 from Democratic delegates to officially be named the partys nominee for president. Her campaign raised $310 million in July, more than double what was pledged to the Trump campaign. In less than two weeks, political pundits say, Harris has reset the race, up by 1 point in the polls. Now, we need this Zoom momentum to translate into votes. READ MORE: Im not interested in your Kamala Harris memes. I just want you to vote. Fueled by identity politics Those of us tired of Trump and vice-presidential nominee JD Vance talking to Black people, Latinos, Asians, Jewish folks heck, women who dont have children as if we are not American, nor do we deserve to be, are turning to Zoom not just to raise money, but to vent. We are finding two truths: We are not alone and there is strength in numbers. Jotaka Eaddy founded Win With Black Women during the 2020 presidential election to support then vice-presidential candidate Harris. Her goal: to ensure when Trump attacked and he did that Harris had a force field of millions of Black women supporting her. Rep. Joyce Beatty (D., Ohio) mentioned the July 21 Zoom on MSNBC and by the end of the night, Black women were getting text alerts to come to the meeting I got at least five and was one of the many women who tried but couldnt access the call. If we wanted to save democracy, we had to get busy. The Right has worked really hard to redefine this concept of identity politics as something bad, said Sarah J. Jackson, an associate professor in the University of Pennsylvanias Annenberg School for Communication and expert on Black and feminist media and activism. The truth is affinity groups are all invested in the same project of saving democracy this election. This is something thats kind of beautiful, something that a functional, multiracial democracy should look like. Trump will continue to run his ugly divide-and-conquer plays. He will continue to say untrue things about people of color like suggesting there is such a thing as Black jobs to unite his racist followers. Last week, Trump stooped to a new low, questioning Harris Blackness at the National Association of Black Journalists Convention in Chicago, never mind Harris attended Howard University, an HBCU, and pledged Alpha Kappa Alpha, the countrys oldest Black sorority. Never mind Harris, whose mother is Indian and father is Jamaican, has always identified as a proud Black woman her late-1980s Salt-N-Pepa asymmetrical cut speaks Gen X Black woman volumes. In addition to creating safe spaces for affinity groups, Zoom is creating a platform for our allies to raise money and speak out in large numbers. During the White Women: Answer the Call! Show up for Kamala Harris call, white women admitted to failing when they did not vote for Hillary Clinton, pledging to elect and persuade other white women that they should elect the first woman of color as president. Now they know their reproductive rights and those of their children depend on it. White Dudes for Harris doubled down on the idea that Trump doesnt speak for all white men, proving the must vulnerable of us have more allies than we realized. That warms my heart more than the millions of dollars raised for Harris campaign. Harris sloughed off Trumps comments as his same old show of divisiveness and disrespect in her response to Trumps NABJ tirade. We deserve a leader who understands that our differences do not divide us they are an essential source of our strength, Harris said. MAGA Republicans are counting on a divided America to distract us so much that Trump can easily slide into a second presidency. Harris candidacy is giving us a shot at saving our democracy, one Zoom call at a time. Quamere Hall showed up to Philadelphias Criminal Justice Center on Friday to support a friend who was scheduled to be sentenced for killing three people. He left in handcuffs, charged with murder. Advertisement Hall, 22, a young rapper known as Mere Pablo, was arrested at the courthouse Friday morning and charged with murder, conspiracy, and related crimes in the shooting death of 34-year-old Sharif King in the Parkside section of the city last year. Hall, who law enforcement officials say is affiliated with the West Philly-based gang YBC, or the Young Bag Chasers, had come to the courthouse in support of Arshad Curry, a fellow YBC member who was set to be sentenced for shooting five people, three fatally, in 2021. Currys hearing was scheduled in the same room as the sentencing of a man who shot a police officer last year, so the hallway of the eighth floor was filled with top police brass. Hours earlier, homicide detectives had issued a warrant for Halls arrest and pushed out a citywide patrol alert with his photo and the words wanted. Two officers with the highway patrol unit, having seen the alert that morning, recognized Hall in the crowd and alerted sheriffs to take him into custody, said Deputy Police Commissioner Frank Vanore. Vanore said Hall is one of four people responsible for the shooting death of King on the 5200 block of West Jefferson Street on July 8, 2023. Surveillance footage shows that around 2 p.m., as King walked down the block, four men in masks and hoodies jumped out of a black Acura and shot him multiple times before fleeing, Vanore said. The getaway car, Vanore said, had been stolen in a gunpoint carjacking on the 3100 block of Hunting Park Avenue earlier that day a crime during which a man pointed a gun to a womans head, then asked her if she wanted to die before demanding her keys and cell phone, according to the affidavit of probable cause for his arrest. Police recovered the car in Mantua five days later with multiple spent shell casings inside, according to the affidavit. But some of the most critical information came from an anonymous tipster who submitted information telling police that Hall, alongside two other YBC affiliates known as Baby Yopp and Yak Yola, was responsible for the shooting, the document said. Detectives started monitoring Halls Instagram, and in the weeks after, watched a livestream he recorded in which he and a friend sat in a car and flashed guns to the camera, according to affidavit. Officers surveyed the 3500 block of Fairmount Avenue in Mantua, where Hall was known to hang out, and found him sitting in a parked car. Under his seat was a 9mm handgun one of the weapons that ballistic evidence shows was fired at the scene of Kings killing, according to the affidavit. Halls DNA was also found on the weapon, the document said. Hall was arrested and charged with illegal gun possession. He pleaded guilty to the charge in June, and is scheduled to be sentenced this month. Cell phone tower data placed Hall near the scene of the carjacking, and in the general area of the shooting later that day though his phone appeared to be powered off at the exact time of the killing. In addition to murder, Hall has been charged with robbery, aggravated assault, and related crimes for his alleged role in the carjacking. READ MORE: Defying the code of silence: How a teen helped solve four murders and convict a West Philly gang Hes the latest of a growing list of Philly drill rappers and YBC affiliates charged with murder. Curry was sentenced on Friday to 42 -to-85 years in prison for killing three young men. And last fall, three other YBC members were convicted of killing two teens in one day. Abdul Vicks, a rapper known as YBC Dul whom prosecutors consider to be the ringleader of the West Philadelphia-based gang, posted a photo with Hall on his Instagram not long after the arrest, lamenting yet another friend locked up. I feel lonely, he wrote. All my homies. An inmate at SCI Phoenix in Collegeville has been charged with murder for allegedly stomping another inmate to death. Read more A Philadelphia man incarcerated in state prison for shooting at an off-duty police officer stomped another inmate to death, prosecutors said Tuesday. Dwight Williams, 42, has been charged with first- and third-degree murder in the killing of Ashokkumar Guru inside his cell at SCI Phoenix on Sunday, authorities said. Advertisement The motive for the attack remained under investigation Tuesday. Guru, 67, was serving a life sentence after pleading guilty to first-degree murder in the 2009 death of his wife, Shakuntla. Guru beat, burned, and strangled her over alleged infidelity, court records show. Guru was found unresponsive in his cell at SCI Phoenix on Sunday morning, according to the affidavit of probable cause for Williams arrest. A guard saw him lying on the ground, bloodied but still breathing, authorities said. A box covered in blood was found next to his body. Medics who arrived at the prison to treat Guru determined that he had been beaten in the head, and had blood and bruising around his eyes, the affidavit said. A shoe print was visible on his face. Attempts to revive Guru were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead about an hour later. A medical examiner later ruled that he died of blunt force trauma. Another inmate told investigators that he had walked by Gurus cell earlier that morning and had seen someone stomping on his chest, according to the affidavit. The witness said he could not identify the attacker. Surveillance footage from the prison showed Guru leaving his cell to refill his water bottle before returning. Not long after, Williams was seen entering Gurus cell and then leaving alone minutes later. As Williams returned to his cell, a red substance was seen on the bottom of his shoe, the affidavit said. Williams has been incarcerated at SCI Phoenix since 2022, when he was sentenced to five to 10 years for aggravated assault for shooting at an off-duty Philadelphia police officer during a fight in 2019. Investigators said the officer, who was not identified in court records, was driving in the Cedar Park section of West Philadelphia when he saw an acquaintance being attacked by a group of men, according to the affidavit of probable cause for Williams arrest. The officer parked his car and went to intervene, tucking his personal gun into his waistband. As the officer pulled his friend to safety, Williams asked the officer Why you reaching? referring to the gun he was carrying. Williams then raised a gun of his own and fired at the officer six times, narrowly missing him, the affidavit said. Williams was not licensed to carry a gun. In May, while in SCI Phoenix, Williams was charged with possessing contraband for his role in a scheme with other inmates to smuggle buprenorphine (a synthetic opioid), xylazine (a narcotic commonly used as an animal tranquilizer), and naloxone into the jail during family visits. His trial in that case is pending in Montgomery County Court. Keep reading by creating a free account or signing in. Beloved radio disc jockey Bob Charger, 71, known across Philadelphia for spinning oldies on 98.1 WOGL, died Friday. The cause of death was not disclosed. Born Carmen J. Jacovini in South Philadelphia, he went on to have a career that spanned decades of radio and television stations in Philadelphia and the region, Las Vegas, Houston, and eventually, Jackson, Miss. In the Philadelphia area, however, he was best known for his 20-year stint at WOGL (known affectionately as Oldies 98), where he hosted a weekly top-20 countdown and the Brunch with the Beatles show. Advertisement Mr. Charger grew up as a media obsessive, according to a death notice prepared by his family, drawing comic books before landing at WNJH in Hammonton, N.J., as a teenager. Following his graduation from South Philadelphia High School, Mr. Charger started writing music columns for local newspapers. From there, Mr. Chargers career took him on a tour of the regions radio stations WCAM in Camden, WAMS in Wilmington, and WMID in Atlantic City, to name a few before he landed in the big leagues: WIBG 99 (known as Wibbage), which was once one of Philadelphias most popular radio stations. Mr. Charger also was a DJ at 56 WFIL and 610 WIP before becoming a weather person and morning show host for a CBS affiliate in the South. Bob knew everything about the entertainers of the 60s and 70s, said Ross Brittain, a DJ at 107.1 WWZY who overlapped with Mr. Charger at Oldies 98 during the late 2000s. And he had a warm voice, great timing. Hed never talk over the vocals on the record. He could tell you how long a song was to the second, said Leigh Richards, a longtime friend of Mr. Chargers and the chairman of Broadcast Pioneers, an industry organization where he once served on the board. He was savant-like. I wish we couldve saved his brain. Brittain said Mr. Charger was the kind of guy who would connect everybody to everybody, gathering broadcasters from different stations to talk shop at the Pub in Pennsauken, where he and Mr. Charger would split a pitcher of beer down the middle. And at WOGL, Brittain said, Mr. Charger liked to play cheerleader during their radio-thons for the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, sticking around for his coworkers shows late into the day. He was so proud to be on the air in Philadelphia, Brittain said. To him, this was the top of his career. Later, Mr. Charger would work behind the scenes as a documentary film producer with Character Driven Productions, a South Philly-based production company that worked on the Wages of Spin, a docu-series that chronicled Philadelphias music scene for PBS. Throughout it all, Mr. Charger was known across the broadcast industry as a natural mentor and benefit host. For Broadcast Pioneers holiday luncheon, Richards said, Mr. Charger would emcee as Santa Claus. That hat got a lot of mileage, Richards said. PHL17 producer Jason Lee attributes much of his success to Mr. Charger, who took Lee under his wing as an unpaid intern for Jerry Blavat at WPGR. Mr. Charger would let Lee run the boards during his shows on late Saturday afternoons, eventually going to Blavat directly to advocate for Lee to get his own turn on the air. Lee did on Oct. 3, 1992, he recalled, directly following Mr. Charger. And when Lee earned his first full-time broadcast job in the 90s at B101, Mr. Charger was outside the studio to take Lee for coffee after his first overnight shift. They went to a Dunkin Donuts, Lee said, and Mr. Charger wouldnt stop bragging about him to the cashier. I couldnt have thought of a better way for my first ever radio show to begin, said Lee. He didnt have to help me, but he did. Mr. Charger is survived by his sister Donna Colavita and brother Joseph Jacovini. He was the uncle of Gianna Jacovini and Erica Barabusci, as well as the great-uncle to two boys and a girl: Jacob, Joseph, and Elaina. A graveside service was held for Mr. Charger on Wednesday, Aug. 7, at Holy Cross Cemetery in Yeadon. Donations in Mr. Chargers name can be made to the American Heart Association, Box 840692, Dallas, Texas 75284-0692. Chef Reuben R. Asaram takes naan from the oven during a Sunnys Table dinner at Kampar in Philadelphia on Thursday, July 11, 2024. Kampar is located at 611 South 7th Street. Read more Reuben Chef Reuby Asaram took a moment from addressing his diners to wield a paddle deep into the fiery mouth of the same oven that, not long ago, baked some of the citys best Neapolitan pies. We dont call this a pizza oven anymore, says the bearded, bespectacled chef, sporting his trademark hot pink apron and cap. This is my tandoor now. Advertisement On cue, the paddle reemerges with a steaming hot flatbread, puffed like a balloon from the 700-degree heat. His mother, Mama Ruby, continues shaping the dough balls behind the restaurant counter, just like she does at home, so the flatbread supply remains steady while this communal table of 10 devours the lamb seekh kebabs. Theyre among the four courses being served at Sunnys Table, the Indian tasting menu experience Asaram has been producing four nights a week as a chef in residency in the ground-floor dining room of Kampar in Bella Vista. (Kampars chef-owner, Ange Branca, serves an a la carte Malaysian menu in the Kongsi bar upstairs.) Purists may notice that the flat-bottomed oven works differently from a vertical tandoor, where breads cook against the walls and remain flat, supple, and pliantly chewy. This naan was more like a pita. But Asaram, 32, has never been much of a traditionalist, from the moment he left his premed studies to enroll at the Culinary Institute of America. Asaram says his naans puff is all the better for diners to use as a pocket to fill with meat and oozy scoops of molten Chihuahua cheese laced with cumin and roasted long hots served on the side. This Indian-Italian South Philly riff on queso fundido is a nod to a fusion style that has become Reubys signature in a series of pop-ups that meld South Asian flavors with Mexican influences, always splashed in fluorescent sauces vividly steeped from natural sources save for the electric blue dust of Takis chips striping Sunnys samosa chaat. (A butter chicken Reubychanga anyone?) That multicultural flair, inspired by his friendships with Mexican colleagues in kitchen stints from New Yorks Jean-Georges, Spice Market, and Morimoto, and Philadelphias Buddakan, led to Asarams selection as one of three chefs nationwide by Taco Bell to reimagine the Crunchwrap Supreme. Asarams menu at Sunnys Table is more of a tribute to the home-cooked flavors of his familys roots in New Delhi, where his parents fell in love and married before moving to Jackson Heights, Queens. Theres an endearing pride in the air as Asaram and his mom (a computer engineer by trade) work side-by-side with broad smiles and hugs behind the counter of this open kitchen, telling family stories about his late grandfather Sunny Asaram. Sunny was the one who made the iron skewers for these particular kebabs. He also inspired his grandson to cook, showing him the distinctive fast-moving technique alternating between wet hands and quick bursts of exposure to searing heat to load the soft mince of lamb seasoned with rosewater, chilies, and fenugreek onto the rods so they dont fall off. The final texture of the cooked meat remains remarkably fluffy in the style of a Galouti kebab. Hovering off to the side as a cohost and moderator, Ange Branca and Sam Pritchard, Kampars general manager and beverage director, keep the evening rolling with cheerful banter, cultural backstories, and outstanding beverage pairings, which are different from those served at the Kongsi upstairs. Featuring largely female producers from regions that zig from the Riesling cliches typically poured with South Asian food, these wines, from a South African pinotage pet-nat to a juicy Portuguese baga, touch on Brancas fondness for showcasing less commonly seen flavors. A Muhibba dry cider collaboration between her and Ben Wenk of Ploughman Cider in Adams County, infused with Malaysian spices (lime leaves, star anise, cumin, and coriander), is both a refreshing match and a symbolic brew of Brancas commitment to diversity. The communal table and wood-fired oven of the downstairs space in Kampars bi-level building is reserved as an intimate platform for cooks from what Branca considers underrepresented cuisines and a chance for her to offer mentorship. The length of the residency two years sounds more like a short-term lease than a typical resident chef pop-up. Branca, previously an international business consultant for Deloitte and IBM, counters that two years is whats needed to give a rising chef enough of a track record to earn credibility with investors to fund the next move. Shes like a second mother helping to set me up for success, says Asaram, who has found Brancas business insights invaluable. Its literally like going to school, but more hands-on. Its hard not to root for him to get it right, especially since this chapter is part of a long comeback from health issues. In 2019, he landed in the hospital as a result of back troubles stemming from a congenital condition and a childhood of multiple surgeries. The doctor told me: Youre not going to be a chef again, said Asaram, whose hospitalization detoured his initial plan to run a food truck. Sunnys Table has been an exercise in creating a menu whose execution is engineered to his bodys specifications, with efficient movement, less lifting, and close quarters to limit rushing back and forth. That includes the wood-fired oven, whose elevation has reduced the kneeling often required by ovens. The boldness of flavors has not suffered. One might ask how a meal of samosas and chicken tandoori could be considered underrepresented cuisine, given the seeming ubiquity of those dishes in Philadelphia and that Indian residents now comprise the largest Asian population in the region. There is currently no other chef attempting to showcase Indian flavors locally in a tasting menu format, traditional or otherwise, so it does offer a unique platform for the cuisine. And Branca insists that theres a difference between the home-style renditions of these dishes that Asaram is producing, especially when served in such intimate environment bolstered with the context of conversation, and the restaurant versions people know. Theres no doubt the wood-fired oven lends these boneless chicken thighs a distinctive smoky singe and extra juiciness, heightening the aromatics of garam masala radiating from the vivid blush of a Kashmiri red chilli and yogurt marinade. We loved it next to the fluffy mounds of turmeric-tinted lemon rice. It was an excellent tandoori chicken. But it did not quite set a new standard in terms of its depth of flavor. A bone-in version would be even better. I enjoyed our meal enough; I have no regrets doing it once, especially bolstered by those drinks (an additional $50 for four pours) and the tres leches dessert spiced with chai tea, a collaboration between Asaram and Kampars resident Chilean pastry chef, Cote Tapia-Marmugi. There are plans to change the menu seasonally. The back to basics approach for his debut was partly inspired by Branca, who encouraged Asaram to pull up my roots from the ground up, because I was never Indian forward I always ran away from it. But if Asaram hopes to make this project sustainable with repeat guests willing to pay $90 for four courses (more than Zahavs prix fixe menu and just shy of Her Place Supper Club), hell need to push beyond the comfort zone of this debut to showcase dishes that are much less common in Philly. A nihari meat curry, typical of New Delhi, like the one he has slow-stewed in a past pop-up with brisket and marrow bones for Marrow Me Tacos, and a vada pao inspired by Mumbai, are two intriguing dishes hes considering for a future menu. Its all part of the process of self-discovery and honing a voice for a talented chef clearly still seeking his lane between his training in fine dining, pride in family recipes, and a fondness of pop culture mash-ups (like the samosa lumpia with mole rosa chutney). Now comes the hardest part for a chef who has already proven adept at marketing himself as a brand: creating a restaurant experience thats enduring. Reuby at Kampar Sunnys Table 611 S. Seventh St, Philadelphia, Pa., 19147, 215-989-2202; kamparphilly.com Sunnys Table tasting menu downstairs: Wednesday through Saturday, one seating at 7 p.m. Prepaid tickets for four-course tasting, $90. Wine pairings, $50. Chef Tyler Akins debut as a restaurateur was Stock, an 18-seat pho shop on Girard Avenue in Fishtown, in summer 2014. Exactly 10 years later, Akin has returned to the neighborhood to open his latest, Bastia. Opening Aug. 15, its a 70-seat cafe by day and coastal Mediterranean restaurant by night in Foyer Projects new Hotel Anna & Bel, at Susquehanna Avenue and Belgrade Street. A companion lounge called Caletta, with what Akin calls an Italian snacky menu, is forthcoming next month, with 16 seats, eight bar seats, and 28 seats outdoors by the pool. Advertisement The hotel is the former Penn Asylum for Indigent Widows and Single Women, a hauntingly beautiful 19th-century building tucked into the rowhouse neighborhood, a half-mile from the bustle of Frankford Avenues shops and restaurants. The restaurant is part of the homes chapel. Bastias roots date to 2019. Akin and his then-neighbor, Foyer Projects Dor Berkovitz, began talking about opening a grocery store/all-day cafe. They shelved that idea early in the pandemic. When Berkovitz and his wife, Galli Arbel, began developing the hotel, they looked up Akin. Akin, who cooked at the Greek-Mediterranean restaurant Komi in Washington, and at Zahav in Philadelphia before opening Stock, came up with a menu designed to match the vibe created by Foyers Arbel, Berkovitz, and Sigita Stravinskaite, and the design and architecture firm B March. Coastal Mediterranean and the restaurants name stemmed from a collaborative Corsican dinner that Akin was planning with chef Jon Sybert of Tail Up Goat in Washington, at Akins Wilmington restaurant, Le Cavalier at the Hotel Du Pont. Though that didnt work out, Akin said, I went down the rabbit hole and started to look at Sardinia because of proximity and the sort of flavors that could complement each other. Among Bastias dishes will be skate cheeks with corn and bonito beurre blanc; sea urchin butter tartine with stuffed squash blossom; entrecote with borlotti beans and sweet pepper salad; and grilled lobster Algherese with legumes. The brunch menu will include green shakshuka with herbs, tomatillo, wilted greens, and eggs; Nicoise sandwich with tuna, tapenade, ratatouille, arugula, and harissa; and a breakfast sandwich with ricotta frittata, mint salsa verde, and wilted greens. Beverage director Benjamin Kirk, most recently at Wm. Mulherins Sons, is stocking the bar with small-batch spirits and natural wine labels and will use such traditional Corsican and Sardinian ingredients as citrus and chestnuts. To wit: one cocktail, Isle of Beauty, contains Calvados, Old Overholt, Bloom Farm chestnuts, amari, golden raisin, and orange. Nonalcoholic options include Italian sodas and coffee granita. As for that 10-year stretch between Stock and Bastia: Akin opened a second Stock, in Rittenhouse, and partnered on Res Ipsa Cafe; all closed during the pandemic. In 2020, at the outset of the pandemic, he returned to his native Delaware to open Le Cavalier, and was part of the Independent Restaurant Coalition, an advocacy group. Bastias bar will open at 4 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday; dinner will be served from 5 to 10 p.m. Brunch will be served from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekends. Weekday breakfast and lunch will follow on Aug. 28. David Dave Cline, a 28-year-old West Philadelphia resident who can cook, has normal hobbies, and has a cat named Peach, has taken an unconventional approach to finding a date by purchasing a billboard. The billboard, located at 1309 S. 34th Street, features a photo of Cline and has captured the attention of Philadelphians and singles from as far away as Ghana and Indonesia since its unveiling on July 24. Advertisement The Instagram page @date_dave_philly, listed on the billboard, has seen thousands of messages from people near and far, including Wisconsin, Germany, and Australia. In just over a week, Clines follower count surged to more than 6,000, with many showing their support and interest. Ive already thought about shutting it down a few times because its just too popular for me to handle, he said. I really was not expecting this type of reaction and support from it its crazy, just insanity. However, Clines primary goal for the billboard was not to secure a date. Instead, he wanted to make people smile with what he calls a massive waste of money. I think the financial strain this will cause is equal to how funny I think itll be, so that was really the only deciding factor [in doing a billboard], he said. Initially, the billboard was meant to be just a graphic of Cline and something like hey, Im Dave and no call to action. But at the last minute, Cline decided that aiming to find a date would be more amusing. Its relatable and a little less narcissistic instead of just being featured on a billboard that my friends and I can laugh at [with me as] the butt of the joke, now everyone else can laugh too, he said. The $1,154 billboard has been quite effective for Clines dating life. About 80% of Philadelphians reaching out are singles looking to date the billboard guy. Sorting through messages from genuine daters and those seeking clout is a welcome change from using dating apps, according to Cline. Dating apps just suck for the most part, he added. Even if youve paid for a subscription on a dating app to find people, its really hard to not internalize all those negative thoughts like not only am I single, but now Im undateable [according to the algorithm]. Cline is down to meet lots of different people who meet his bare minimum requirements: You must be in your mid- to late-20s or early 30s, left-leaning, and not weird about pronouns and people just trying to live their lives, not mean or overly evil, and have a sense of humor. If this sounds like you, slide in to his DMs and Cline will take you out to Rays Happy Birthday bar on East Passyunk Avenue for PBR or High Life drafts. Cline suggests messaging something unique or more than just hi, is this real? to get a reply back. And if youre just here for the cat pictures, he promises to do his best to get back to you as soon as possible. Just remember Im a guy, and Im trying to do something funny to make people laugh and not to take this too seriously, he said. No trespassing signs and a fence went up around what is affectionately known as Graffiti Pier over the weekend, effectively cordoning off the Instagram-famous art oasis following its partial collapse last week. The front tip of the Port Richmond pier which juts out at Cumberland and Beach Streets and is covered in decades of overlapping graffiti tumbled into the water last Wednesday, according to the Coast Guard. Advertisement The cause of the collapse is still unknown, but the city is not recommending that the pier be demolished, said a spokesperson for the Department of Licenses and Inspections. The piers regulars a collection of street artists, ravers, fishermen, Instagrammers and people who like alone time remain undeterred by the collapse and crackdown, making plans to return while mourning the loss of Graffiti Pier as it once was: intact, untouched, and a free-for-all. READ MORE: Portion of Graffiti Pier collapses into the Delaware River I cant think of another space like it in Philadelphia, said Tyson Mitman, sociology researcher at York St. John University in England and the author of The Art of Defiance: Graffiti, Politics, and the Reimagined City in Philadelphia. Its incredible, kind of like a living museum. Before it was covered in tags and large-scale murals, Graffiti Pier was known as Pier 18, an Industrial Revolution-era coal yard for the Reading Co. Its current owner, Conrail, took over in 1976, and ceased operations 17 years later. Soon after, graffiti artists started using the piers concrete slabs for practice away from the watchful eye of police. Eventually, the vibrant walls became an open-secret thanks to Instagram, where the #graffitipier has more than 18,000 posts. Now, couples taking picture-perfect engagement photos comingle with ravers, picnicking families, and off-the-clock muralists. Part of Graffitis Pier allure is the fact that its always been illicit and a little unsafe. Events are unsanctioned, the base is pockmarked with gaping holes, and in 2018, the Philadelphia Police Department shut down the pier over reports of rising crime. READ MORE: From 2018: Philly police shut down Graffiti Pier, citing safety concerns Online records indicate that Conrail received a notice from Licenses & Inspections for failing to submit an inspection report on July 31, the day of the collapse. Conrail has received 10 violations from L&I since 2010, ranging from operating an unsafe pier, failing to obtain a license, or for failure to submit inspections. Jimmy King, 30, recalled how sneaky it felt to be walking along the pier when he first visited six years ago. King went to Graffiti Pier almost daily during the pandemic and tries to keep up with the hodgepodge of events that take over the space. Hes slacklined across the top, moshed at hard-core shows, and even attended a bondage picnic (by accident, King stressed). Now, hes not sure when hell be able to return. Part of the appeal is that were not supposed to be here, that were bending the rules, said King. Its a place where everyone can really be themselves and do whatever they like. Thats beautiful. The wild west of street art The lifeblood of Graffiti Pier is Philadelphias street artists, who use the abandoned industrial space to perfect their style before taking on more visible and more permanent canvasses. Bernard DelaCruz said watching footage of the pier collapse felt like a death in the family. The mixed media artist visits the pier at least twice a month to experiment with harder-to-tackle skills such as 3D lettering and to scale up sketches to see whether theyd work as a mural. Its therapeutic, said DelaCruz, who goes by Biz. Plus, I dont have walls big enough where I live. DelaCruz recently took his 17-year-old son to the pier for Fathers Day. The duo each spray-painted a wall with their respective tags in color-coordinated hues of pink and orange. In the middle, they left a message: Like father, like son. Muralist Alloyius McIlwaine has a similar relationship with Graffiti Pier. He put up 50 to 60 murals there since he started going regularly in 2009: Portraits of his friends to practice photo-realism, sketches of Wolverine to honor his Marvel fandom, murals of WWE superstars to celebrate Wrestlmania in Philly. Most of his works have been painted over by now; that comes with the territory. No wall is safe from an errant tag or overlapping stroke, but the front of the pier is generally left as canvas for Phillys more respected artists, such as McIlwaine. READ MORE: From 2019: Graffiti pioneer Cornbread returns to the Graffiti Pier, wondering what will happen to the iconic Philly canvas I want other artists coming up to have a place to practice like I did, said McIlwaine. Thats part of the magic of Graffiti Pier, said Mitman. Experienced artists mix with novices to create a snapshot of what Phillys street art scene can look like at any moment in time. A lot of Phillys public art is curated. Whereas places like Graffiti Pier are so attractive because the stuff is constantly changing. Theres surprise and delight at never knowing what youre going to see, said Conrad Benner, who has advocated for preserving the pier on his blog Streets Dept. Among those attracted is the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation, which has received millions in federal and state funding to turn Graffiti Pier into a public park with more space for artists to paint. READ MORE: Graffiti Pier one step closer to becoming public park after state kicks in $1 million It is too soon for us to determine how this will impact DRWCs acquisition and future development of the Pier, DRWC said in a statement. But it is our strong hope that we can continue working with Conrail to finalize the long anticipated purchase agreement that will ultimately allow DRWC to provide meaningful public space for the community in and around the Graffiti Pier property. McIlwaine and DelaCruz plan to return, regardless of whether the park comes to fruition. One of them has already found a silver lining. What I feel is going to happen is when the water in the Delaware dries up hundreds of years from now, someone is going to be walking by and find Graffiti Pier like ancient ruins, said DelaCruz. And theyre going to see my name. I think thats pretty cool. The Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler poses for a portrait in the pews after delivering Sunday Service on the morning of Nov. 27, 2022 at Mother Bethel AME Church in South Philadelphia. Rev. Tyler is the 52nd pastor of the church which has served as a spiritual, social, and community center since its founding in 1794. Read more The Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler, pastor of Mother Bethel AME Church, who is a delegate to the upcoming Democratic National Convention, was all set to attend the rally for Vice President Kamala Harris at Temple University on Tuesday. But theres another national election on the horizon for Tyler. Advertisement Tyler is running in the election to become one of nine general officers of the African Methodist Episcopal Church on Aug. 26. Specifically, hes running for the office of historiographer and executive director of the churchs Department of Research and Scholarship. The office he is running for requires him to resign as pastor of Mother Bethel in Society Hill. He has been pastor there since 2008. Tyler said he will attend the DNC in Chicago, which starts Aug. 19. After a couple of days, he will leave for the General Conference of the AME Church, which runs from Aug. 21 to Aug. 28 in Columbus, Ohio. History has been my passion forever, but it went from a hobby to something more serious when I was working on my [doctorate] degree, Tyler said. Tyler completed his dissertation for a doctorate in educational leadership at the University of Dayton on the life of AME Bishop Daniel Alexander Payne, who was the first Black person to attend United Lutheran Seminary in Gettysburg, from 1835 to 1837. Payne later became the first Black president of Wilberforce University. History has been my passion forever, but it went from a hobby to something more serious when I was working on my [doctorate] degree. Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler Tyler said that, while researching Paynes life and career, he learned the professional skills of a historian. Now I have the skills and ability to dig deeper. The pastor, who has already produced several documentary films for the AME Church, has worked with Henry Louis Skip Gates as an on-air expert on the PBS documentary The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross. He wants to continue making documentaries and other films. If I get elected, I hope to do a major documentary with the help of PBS. Ive already done five documentaries through the AME Church. But Im hoping to do something for a bigger audience, and Skip Gates has made the soil fertile for that. READ MORE: What an act of vandalism shattered, acts of generosity restored at Mother Bethel AME Church If he wins, he will probably remain at Mother Bethel for at least two months until another lead pastor is assigned. The AME Church was founded in Philadelphia by Bishop Richard Allen in 1794. Mother Bethel, the church at Sixth and Lombard, is the oldest AME church in the world, thus the Mother in its name. The AME Church has 20 Episcopal districts in 39 countries across five continents, the churchs website said. Working to archive and preserve history Tyler, 58, originally from Oakland, Calif., is the 52nd pastor at Mother Bethel, and was assigned there in 2008 after serving as senior pastor of Macedonia AME Church in Camden. He has a bachelors degree in religion from Clark Atlanta University and a Masters of Divinity from Payne Theological Seminary, in addition to his doctorate. Tyler has also been active as an organizer for social justice issues. Mother Bethel is one of the founding congregations of POWER (Philadelphians Organized to Witness, Empower, and Rebuild). Its been a great and exciting 16 years for us, Tyler said. Ive prayed about it. I dont want to leave Mother Bethel. Its a great congregation. I can stay another 15 to 18 years and be just as happy. But being the historiographer opens up a lot of different opportunities. I want to help all the local churches figure out how to do what Mother Bethel has been doing, that is to create an archive, where they can keep things and preserve them. Vice President Kamala Harris, pictured here at the Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans on July 6, has deployed the use of the word "weird" to describe her opponents in her presidential campaign. The strategy, says Margaret Betz, is an effective form of laughtivism. Read more The talking points employed by the Democratic and Republican Parties are usually predictable, especially during the Trump era. So the choice by Democratic politicians and pundits of referring to Donald Trump and his running mate JD Vance as weird is unusual and gaining attention. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is credited by many as starting this trend, but notable Democrats Pete Buttigieg, Chuck Schumer, and Kamala Harris herself have used weird to describe everything from Trumps digressions during rallies to Vances criticism of childless cat ladies with no stake in Americas future. Advertisement The tactic seems to be working and Trump/Vance defenders have yet to find an effective rebuttal. One reason weird has gained so much attention is because it doesnt rely on the typical narrative of Trump as an existential threat to the country. Political experts have expressed grave concern about Trump since as early as 2015, with Yale historian Timothy Snyder posting on X just a month ago, Unless Trump loses, America ends. How is it that such dire advice from experts couldnt accomplish what a mild playground taunt has? One possible explanation is that America is suffering from outrage fatigue. Across the political spectrum, Americans are exposed to constant anger, ridicule, and hate. Even expert advice on Trumps dangerousness becomes a mere drop in that huge ocean. Americans have become jaded and (understandably) desensitized to the language of extremes. Weird operates from within a different framework, a form of political activism called laughtivism that proponents argue is the most effective way to undermine authoritarian power. Laughtivism got its start among Serbian political activists in the 1990s who were searching for ways to challenge Slobodan Milosevic. One of those activists, Srdja Popovic, published Blueprint for Revolution describing how people living under brutal regimes may feel hopeless but nonetheless have a wide range of effective nonviolent tactics to challenge the system. Laughtivism utilizes mundane tactics that poke fun, often in silly ways, at threatening forces. A typical example is showing up at white supremacist rallies with flour and pretending to mishear their call for White Power! Laughtivist counterprotesters call back, White Powder? and toss the flour their way. While seemingly childish, theres a logic to laughtivism: too frequently, the menacing disposition of hate groups and authoritative governments cause people to freeze in fear and hopelessness by focusing on the ever-present threat. Laughtivism approaches those political forces with a lightness and attempts to undermine the grave solemnity those political forces count on to control the public. You dont fear what you can belly laugh at. Moreover, laughter brings people together, bonding them in joyous ways. Admittedly, weird is not at the overt level of the spectacle of throwing flour onto marching white supremacists. But it is working within the laughtivist tool kit of pulling back from meeting grave threats with equally grave warnings. Weird is gently poking fun at the ideas and policies of the Republican candidates, inviting people to focus on absurdity rather than threat, and to react with laughter, not outrage. In this way, weird sidesteps our outrage fatigue. We can anticipate there will be many twists and turns in the presidential campaign before Election Day, and only time will tell if weird ended up being an effective strategy in winning the election for Kamala Harris. But laughtivism activists like Popovic believe that fun will always do a better job at drawing people together than fear and cruelty. Margaret Betz is an associate teaching professor of philosophy at Rutgers University in Camden. She is the author of the recent book, Modes of Protest and Resistance: Strange Change in Morals Political. Former President Donald Trump at a campaign event in Harrisburg on July 31. The best way to bolster democracy would be to make voting compulsory, Jonathan Zimmerman writes. Read more Last month, Donald Trump urged a group of Christian conservatives to vote in November. And if all went well, Trump added, that would be the last time they needed to go to the polls. Four more years, itll be fixed, itll be fine, you wont have to vote anymore, my beautiful Christians, Trump declared. The comment sent shivers through the Democratic commentariat, and with good reason. Remember, Trump already tried to overturn one election. His comment about not having to vote seemed like a threat to end elections altogether. Advertisement But I read Trumps statement a bit differently. All of us including Christian conservatives should have to vote. The best way to bolster our sagging democracy would be to make voting compulsory. Some two dozen countries already do that. And that makes their governments more representative and more democratic than ours is. Consider Australia, where 90% of citizens routinely turn out in national elections. By comparison, just 46% of eligible American voters cast ballots in our last federal elections in 2022. Turnout in the U.S. is always higher in presidential election years in 2020, it hit 66% but its small potatoes compared with Australia. Thats not just because Australians are slapped with a penalty of 20 Australian dollars (about $13 U.S.) if they fail to vote in a federal election. (States can impose their own penalties, which can top $100.) Its also because Australia makes voting easy by holding elections on weekends and letting people cast ballots at any polling station in their state. They also make it fun. (Really.) At the polls, local groups sell food the most popular fare is the Democratic Sausage and play music. Voting in Australia is like a party, as multiple people told my wife and me when we traveled there earlier this year. And you dont actually have to vote for anyone, they reminded us. Some Australians submit blank ballots; others simply number the candidates in the order they appear on the ballot, which is known as a donkey vote. But you do have to show up, just like we have to appear for jury duty. We also have to pay taxes. Why should voting be any different? The typical American answer is that compulsory voting would constitute compelled speech. The government cant force you to say the Pledge of Allegiance in school. So it shouldnt require you to vote, either. That seems, well, un-American. It isnt. In 1636, Plymouth Colony fined each delinquent 3 shillings for default in case of appearance at the election without due excuse. Over the next century, several other American colonies passed similar measures. Under Delawares 1734 law, failing to vote could cost you 20 shillings. And during the Progressive Era, between the 1880s and the 1920s, 11 states introduced laws and a half dozen others considered constitutional amendments to make voting compulsory. True, most of these proposals went down to defeat. But Massachusetts and North Dakota both passed measures allowing their legislatures to mandate voting. So we do have a history to draw upon if we choose to require voting. And we also have research suggesting that compulsory voting reduces political polarization, which is the biggest blight on America right now. When voting is voluntary, parties try to satisfy their base, but when its mandatory, theyre more likely to propose measures that appeal to a wider swath of citizens. Consider the recent wave of book banning in American schools, which is broadly unpopular. According to a recent Washington Post analysis of about 1,000 challenges to books in 37 states, more than half of the complaints were filed by just 11 people. If we required voting in school board elections, where turnout is notoriously low, its hard to imagine a candidate who wanted to ban books getting very far. But we shouldnt imagine compulsory voting would necessarily benefit liberals. A 2020 survey of 12,000 nonvoters found that if they turned out, 33% would vote for Democrats and 30% for Republicans; another 18% said they would vote for a third party. They were also closely divided on Trump: 51% had a negative opinion of him, and 40% had a positive one. As controversy spread about his voting comment, Trump doubled down on it. You have to vote on Nov. 5, Trump said, in an interview on Fox News. After that, you dont have to worry about voting ... because frankly, we will have such love, if you dont want to vote anymore, thats OK. Its not. We should require everyone to go to the polls, instead of telling them not to worry about it. We will have such love, my beautiful fellow Americans. But only if we vote. Jonathan Zimmerman teaches education and history at the University of Pennsylvania. He is the author of Whose America?: Culture Wars in the Public Schools and eight other books. Jackie Jecmenek (right) talks with city worker Bobby Head as she stands in front of her neighbor's home after Hurricane Beryl passed in Bay City, Texas. Read more Twisters, the recently released sequel to the 1996 film Twister, has been criticized by some for missing an opportunity to mention the important role global warming is playing in the increased frequency and intensity of killer tornadoes like those depicted in the movie. But fictional storm chasers arent the ones seeming to ignore climate change. While a political curveball has led to the replacement of Joe Biden as a main character in the presidential campaign, the remaining protagonists in that drama have been strangely quiet about reducing the destructive impact of global warming. Advertisement The relative silence of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump shows how much has changed since the last race for the White House, when candidates were often pressed to state their positions on the Green New Deal. That resolution never made it out of the Senate but remains a manifesto for activists seeking public policy changes that tie environmental protection to economic justice. READ MORE: On climate change, Donald Trump is ready to sell out our future | Editorial Biden paid homage to the Green New Deal with his Build Back Better plan, which he called the largest effort to combat climate change in American history. The $3.5 trillion proposal included rebates for consumers switching to clean energy utilities, and tax incentives for manufacturers of wind turbines, solar panels, and electric cars. All of which sounds good unless youre Joe Manchin, the senator from a coal mining state, West Virginia, who also happens to own a scrap coal company that has earned him millions of dollars since he founded it in 1988. Manchin claimed Build Back Better cost too much money but continued to oppose it even when its price tag was reduced to $2.2 trillion. Lacking the Democrats vote doomed the bill, which Republican senators refused to support. That was in 2021. Since then, climate change continues to contribute to major wildfires, droughts, tornadoes, and floods across the United States. Just last month, Hurricane Beryl, which forecasters predicted would be downgraded to a tropical storm before it reached Texas, instead remained a Category 1 hurricane, and in its wake left 36 people dead in the Lone Star State. Climate scientists said Beryl, which also devastated several Caribbean islands, was the most powerful hurricane ever recorded so early in the Atlantic hurricane season. In terms of the science, its, unfortunately, kind of right in line with what we expect when were warming the planet and were warming our oceans, said Andra Garner, an assistant professor of environmental science at Rowan University. Maybe the candidates arent saying much about global warming because Trumps record speaks for itself. During his presidency, he rolled back environmental regulations, approved major oil pipelines, and pulled the United States out of the Paris climate accord, which made our nation the first to exit the 2015 global agreement to limit the greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming. Biden resumed U.S. participation in the accords program that sets individual emissions targets for each participating nation, but Trump says if hes reelected, he will ditch the Paris accords again. Taking that step is included in the Project 2025 public policy blueprint written by the conservative think tank the Heritage Foundation, though Trump continues to disavow any knowledge of that document. READ MORE: Ban turf fields in Philadelphia parks | Editorial The Republican nominee was asked about climate change during his June 27 debate with Biden, but, as usual, instead of answering the actual question, he went into a duplicitous monologue suggesting that he, in fact, was an environmentalist. I want absolutely immaculate, clean water. I want absolutely clean air. And we had it. We had H2O, he said. During my four years, I had the best environmental numbers ever. The likelihood of a Harris-Trump debate is becoming more remote as the November election approaches. But Harris can put pressure on Trump to talk about climate change and other issues he might prefer to ignore by making sure her positions arent assumed just because she is a Democrat. Especially when her opponent seems to be dodging an issue, she should speak out to make sure voters know exactly where she stands on that topic. In contrast, his silence will speak volumes. Global warming needs to get more attention. Voters need to understand the connection between climate change and 36 people dying in Texas because a hurricane was much more intense than predicted. They need to know how abandoning the Paris climate accords a second time will lead to more killer storms. What voters dont need is platitudes about clean water and air. They need to know how the candidates will specifically achieve those goals. Following stops in Philadelphia Tuesday, the campaigns of Vice President Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump will turn their attention to the Midwest. On Wednesday, Harris is slated to appear in Eau Claire, Wis., for a campaign event with her newly announced running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. Set to take place Wednesday afternoon, the stop is scheduled to feature an appearance from Grammy-winning indie folk band Bon Iver, which was founded by Eau Claire native Justin Vernon. Advertisement READ MORE: Here's where Kamala Harris' and Donald Trump's campaigns are heading Thursday, Aug. 8 The Eau Claire stop will be one of several this week for Harris and Walz as part of a battleground state tour that the campaign announced late last week. The pairs Tuesday stop in Philadelphia marks the beginning of that tour, as well as the first event in which Harris is slated to appear alongside Walz publicly since announcing him as the Democratic Partys vice presidential candidate. Harris selection of Walz dashed the hopes of supporters of Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who hoped to see a Harris-Shapiro ticket. Shapiro had been considered a front-runner for the position, but ultimately was not selected, with sources telling The Inquirer that Shapiros ambition and career aspirations ultimately worked against him. Following their stop in Wisconsin, Harris and Walz are scheduled to appear in Detroit Wednesday night. Trumps vice presidential pick, Sen. JD Vance (R., Ohio), meanwhile, will follow a similar schedule, trailing Harris and Walz to several battleground states this week on the same days as the Harris campaign, Politico reports. With Harris slated to appear Tuesday evening at Temple Universitys Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, Vance stopped by the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia. That strategy continues Wednesday, with Vance also appearing in Eau Claire, and later in Shelby Township, Mich., a northern suburb of Detroit. Vances Michigan event, however, will not be open to the public, according to Detroits Fox 2. Harris previously was scheduled to stop in Georgia Friday, but that event has since been postponed due to the effects of Tropical Storm Debby. Trump, meanwhile, has one rally listed on his campaigns event webpage this week, slated for for Friday in Bozeman, Montana. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro arrives to speak before Vice President Kamala Harris appeared in Philadelphia with her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. Read more Vice President Kamala Harris announced Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate Tuesday, opting against Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who had catapulted to the national stage as a possible pick for the No. 2 spot. Walz, 60, is a second-term governor, former congressman, and retired teacher who served in the Army National Guard. He had risen in recent weeks from an under-the-radar Democrat to his partys vice presidential nominee as he blanketed the airwaves with critiques of Republicans, which have been clipped and boosted on social media. Advertisement As Ive said repeatedly over the past several weeks, the running mate decision was a deeply personal decision for the vice president and it was also a deeply personal decision for me, Shapiro said in a statement after the announcement. Pennsylvanians elected me to a four-year term as their governor, and my work here is far from finished. The choice elevates Walz, who avoided any major scrutiny during the public vetting process. His background and down-to-earth appeal are things the campaign hopes can pull in voters in places such as Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, even though Walz is from a reliably blue state. It also means Harris opted for the favored finalist of some progressive Democrats who had criticized Shapiro. Walz, with a Democrat-controlled legislature, enacted a progressive agenda in his state last year, legalizing marijuana and passing sweeping protections for LGBTQ people. Harris and Walz appeared together for the first time as running mates Tuesday evening at a rally in Philadelphia, where Shapiro also spoke. I set out to find a partner who can help build this bright future, a leader who will help unite our nation and move us forward, a fighter for the middle class, a patriot who believes as I do in the extraordinary promise of America, Harris said of Walz. Shapiro faced the most backlash of any of the top finalists to the prospect of his candidacy. While top Democrats and more than 50 of the states labor leaders overwhelmingly endorsed his candidacy, a handful of vocal opponents highlighted his past support for school vouchers and staunch support of Israel in the war in Gaza as off-putting to some in the liberal wing of the party. That may have factored into Harris decision as she looks to keep the party united with less than 100 days until Election Day. It didnt help, Philadelphia Democratic Party chair Bob Brady said of the scrutiny surrounding Shapiro, including from some detractors from his own party. Brady called the selection of Walz, whom he served with in Congress, bittersweet. He said he still believes Democrats would have been better positioned to win Pennsylvania with Shapiro on the ticket. You wouldnt have any respect for me if I said it didnt matter, Brady said. It does matter, but it doesnt mean we cant still win it. Shapiro is the states third Jewish governor and has become one of the most prominent Jewish politicians in the country. While he has strong approval ratings and accomplishments such as quickly addressing the collapse of a bridge on Interstate 95 last year, he has served as governor for less than two years and could have been vulnerable to criticism that he had not developed much of a record of legislative successes in the governors mansion. Republicans immediately cast Walz as a dangerously liberal extremist. Its no surprise that San Francisco Liberal Kamala Harris wants West Coast wannabe Tim Walz as her running-mate, said Karoline Leavitt, press secretary for the campaign of former President Donald Trump, the Republican presidential candidate. If Walz wont tell voters the truth, we will: Just like Kamala Harris, Tim Walz is a dangerously liberal extremist, and the Harris-Walz California dream is every Americans nightmare. Democrats plan to combat this messaging around Walz just by the governor being himself, said Brendan McPhillips, a senior adviser to the Harris campaign. How Shapiro lost the veepstakes Shapiro, 51, of Abington, has long been seen as a potential White House contender. His landslide 14-point victory in the 2022 race for governor in swing state Pennsylvania cemented his status as one of the partys top political talents in a critical battleground. Shapiro had widely been seen as potentially running for president in 2028 before President Joe Bidens decision to drop out of the race presented him with a new opportunity. Before Harris announcement, some political observers privately wondered whether the ambitious Shapiro would be up for serving as No. 2 on the presidential ticket. That ambition may have hurt him as he was vetted for the job. Shapiro strategically avoided cable TV news shows, as Walz flooded the programs, publicly auditioning for the job there. He said he did not want to put undue pressure on Harris deeply personal decision. I think there will be a lot of second-guessing on how he handled this, said an ally of Shapiros in Harrisburg, who did not want to be identified criticizing Shapiros approach. He took a backseat approach instead of pushing himself to the front like Walz. But two sources familiar with the vetting process said that despite a somewhat subtle campaign, Shapiros ambition was still a factor that worked against him. Democratic Sen. John Fetterman, who does not get along with Shapiro, reportedly communicated through staff that he didnt think the Pennsylvania governor would be good for the ticket because of his career aspirations. A public push for Shapiro from party leaders also took an embarrassing turn when a promo video released by Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker went out early and seemed to name Shapiro as the official pick. What does it mean for winning Pa.? In Harris search for a running mate, Shapiros connection to Pennsylvania was perhaps his strongest selling point. The state is widely viewed as a must-win for Democrats this year. Shapiro has won by big margins in several of his last statewide races and hes liked by some Republican and independent voters. While theres little evidence to show that historically the home state of a vice presidential candidate helps carry the state, Shapiros popularity here was seen as an asset. Walz, though, has a personal story that could have unique appeal in the Midwest and in rural parts of Pennsylvania, where President Joe Biden won back just enough Democrats to help him carry the state. People keep saying that Pennsylvania is the Midwest but Montgomery County isnt the Midwest, one statewide Democratic strategist said. So if youre trying to keep the working-class Americans attracted to Joe Biden, Tim Walz does that more than Josh Shapiro. By missing out on the ticket, Shapiro may also have more time to campaign for Harris in his home state, without the added job of jetting around the country. McPhillips, the Harris campaign adviser, told reporters Shapiro will remain a key partner in the campaign. The governor didnt go anywhere. Hes still gonna be actively campaigning in support of the ticket, McPhillips added. He put out a supportive statement just a little while ago, and I feel very confident that as Pa. voters get to know who Gov. Walz is, theres just a lot to love about him. Some Pennsylvania Republicans were celebrating Walz as the choice over Shapiro, whom they viewed as a more worrisome opponent. Thank you, Kamala, said Pat Poprik, the Bucks County GOP chair. I want to send her a thank-you card. Despite not being selected for the ticket, Shapiro is sure to continue hitting the campaign trail as a surrogate, starting with a speaking slot at the rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday night. She is a fearless leader, Shapiro said of Harris at a Philadelphia event earlier this month. She has always put people before the powerful, whether in a courtroom, in the halls of power, or the office of the vice president. She has never forgotten the people that got her there. She has never forgotten where she came from. Staff writers Anna Orso, Fallon Roth, Jeremy Roebuck, and Andrew Seidman contributed to this article. Governor Josh Shapiro throwing his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris. Rally endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for President at the Patrick B. Gillespie Building, Philadelphia Building Trades Union Hall on Woodhaven Road, Philadelphia on Friday morning July 26, 2024. Read more Over the last two weeks, as Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro auditioned for the role of vice presidential nominee, it was abundantly clear where most of the top Democrats in Philadelphia stood. If you want to win Pennsylvania, there is no other candidate, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker proclaimed during a rally last month. Advertisement So in Shapiros home of southeastern Pennsylvania, Vice President Kamala Harris decision to instead tap Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate was a bittersweet one. His allies said Tuesday that while they will aggressively campaign for the Harris-Walz ticket, several admitted theyre bummed the hometown favorite didnt get the nod. That Harris introduced Walz as her running mate in Philadelphia just miles from Shapiros home in Jenkintown in some ways compounded the blow. Shapiro, who grew up in Abington, has deep ties to Philadelphia and began his political career in Montgomery County, where he served as a state representative and a county commissioner. READ MORE: Gov. Josh Shapiro has faced the most scrutiny of any VP contender. Heres why. I was hoping it was going to be something special, that Pennsylvania would get to celebrate here, the birthplace of the nation, that our guy was going to be the candidate, Philadelphia City Councilmember Jim Harrity said, and its kind of disappointing. He added that hed likely skip the rally and attend a community event instead, saying, Im going to continue to support [Harris] wholeheartedly, but I might take today to sit with my constituents. Shapiro himself showed up, delivering remarks to a raucous crowd and promoting Walz as a great patriot, saying he and his wife, Lori, feel blessed to know Walz and his wife, Gwen. They are outstanding public servants, Shapiro said, and I cant wait for you, Philly, the rest of this commonwealth, and the entire country to get the chance to get to know the Walzs, the next vice president and second lady of this nation. Almost as soon as the news was announced Tuesday, Shapiros supporters noted the options ahead of the governor, with some speculating he could be a nominee for U.S. attorney general if Harris wins or a front-runner for the presidential nomination in 2028 if she loses. Hes young, still. Big things are gonna happen for him, Philadelphia Democratic Party chair Bob Brady said of Shapiro, whom he texted shortly after the news broke. I told him look, its not like youre fading off into the sunset. Youre our governor. Youre No. 1 in the state. You dont have to be No. 2 in the country. Democrats say Walz is still a Pennsylvania sort of person State Rep. Mike Schlossberg, a Lehigh County Democrat who has advocated for Shapiro, said he expects the governor to enthusiastically support Walz. Hes too much of a professional and too dedicated to the cause of democracy and freedom to do anything other than put his heart and soul into campaigning for the Harris-Walz ticket, Schlossberg said. Im sure it must sting like nothing ever has. But in politics, sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. Parker, who delivered remarks at Temple and called for Democratic unity, similarly said that Shapiro is a consummate professional. Ive worked with him for many, many years, Parker said in an interview with CNNs Jake Tapper. We know, he knows, all of us are going to come together to ensure that we defeat Donald Trump. Others who publicly pushed for Shapiro said Walz is still a strong choice, given hes a Midwesterner running alongside Harris, who is from deep-blue California. Danny Bauder, president of the Philadelphia AFL-CIO, an umbrella organization of more than 100 unions, said he sees the Minnesota governor as a friend to labor. Hes like a fishing hole, hunting, cabin guy, Bauder said. Honestly, other than Josh Shapiro, I dont know that theres a more Pennsylvania sort of person. Jamila Winder, the chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners, said she hoped to see Shapiro on the ticket and that his track record in the state would have given Harris campaign an edge in a critical battleground. But she said shes confident that he will do the work in order to get two good Democrats over the finish line in November. And Neil Makhija, a Democrat on the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners, said while it would have been special to a lot of people if Shapiro were chosen, his constituents in Montgomery County are fired up to elect Madam President Kamala Harris. Tim Walz, from everything that Ive seen, is a great pick, he said. A progressive uproar over Shapiro Progressives, meanwhile, said Harris pick showed her team was looking for someone who could generate grassroots enthusiasm. Over the last two weeks, Shapiro has faced a torrent of opposition from the left wing of the party, which has been critical of his statements about the conflict in the Middle East, his embrace of private-school vouchers, and his offices handling of a sexual harassment complaint against a former aide. At the same time, Walz who was barnstorming on television and doing near-daily interviews became something of a favorite on the left. Robert Saleem Holbrook, executive director of the Philadelphia-based Abolitionist Law Center, has worked with the Shapiro administration on criminal-justice policy and is a progressive organizer in the city. He said some activists were turned off by Shapiros tendency to default to the center and saw Walz as more willing to fight for progressive priorities. Holbrook said some were also particularly bothered when Shapiro spoke about protesters of the war in Gaza in April, saying, We have to query whether or not we would tolerate this, if this were people dressed up in KKK outfits or KKK regalia, making comments about people who are African American in our communities. I dont believe Walzs positions [on the Middle East] are that different from Shapiros, Holbrook said. But those comments definitely contributed to a lot of the progressive uproar. Melissa Robbins, a political organizer and a former candidate for Philadelphia City council, said that while Shapiros popularity would have been an asset in Pennsylvania, shes elated that Harris picked Walz, citing Shapiros stances on private-school vouchers and pro-Palestine encampments at the University of Pennsylvania. His position on that posed a potential threat, Robbins said, to take away from one of the most historic presidential campaigns that weve seen. Inquirer staff writers Katie Bernard, Layla Jones, and Fallon Roth contributed to this article. Gov. Josh Shapiro speaks with press along with Vice President Kamala Harris during a visit to the Reading Terminal Market last month. Shapiro is a top contender to serve as Harris' running mate. Read more Political science research is clear: If youre looking to carry a states electoral votes, it wont help much to pick a vice presidential candidate from there. Unless, just maybe, the state in question is Pennsylvania, which was decided by around a percentage point in each of the last two presidential elections and which has a parochial political culture. Advertisement Kyle Kopko, an adjunct professor of political science at Elizabethtown College in Lancaster County, knows better than most. He and Chris Devine, who teaches at the University of Dayton, have written two books on the impact that vice presidential picks have on a campaigns fortunes, including whether the veep pick gives the ticket a home state bump. His research suggests if Vice President Kamala Harris picks Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, it may not move the needle much. We analyzed the home-state impact using a number of methods. In most cases, the result was not statistically distinguishable from zero, Kopko said. The reality is, while voters often say they care about VP picks, very few report that their vote choice was motivated by a vice presidential pick. Candidates stances on the economy and social issues matter much more than the No. 2 slot. At the end of the day, people are picking a candidate for president, and evaluating tickets on that basis, Kopko said. Thats not to say that vice presidents dont matter at all. For one thing, there are second opinions: Political analyst Nate Silver calculates a 0.4% boost in the VP picks home state, which could certainly matter in a state as tight as Pennsylvania. There is also evidence that vice presidential picks can affect the campaign in a different way, by reflecting on a candidates judgment or ideology. For example, Kopkos data show that the negative media response to then-Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin dragged down perceptions of Republican nominee John McCains candidacy in 2008. But that effect was nationwide. It wasnt isolated to a particular state. Still, there are just a few cases when a local veep can make a difference. If you have a relatively small state, and the candidate has a lot of experience representing that state, you can see a signal, Kopko said. Again, 2008 provides a helpful example. That year, Kopko said, then-Sen. Joe Biden really did move the needle for Democratic nominee Barack Obamas campaign in Bidens home state of Delaware. Thats because Biden was a particularly big fish in Delawares small pond, and voters there reacted with due enthusiasm for a favorite son. There are also counterfactuals: While Obama didnt really need Bidens help in blue Delaware, Kopko suggested that if former Vice President Al Gore had picked then-New Hampshire governor Jeanne Shaheen in 2000, that may have been enough to deliver him New Hampshires electoral votes and the presidency. Shapiro may not be in the same category. He hasnt been on the scene nearly as long, and in any case, Pennsylvania is a far bigger place than Delaware. Unless Pennsylvania is a fundamentally different kind of place. Berwood Yost, who runs the Center for Opinion Research at Franklin & Marshall College, acknowledges the soundness of Kopkos research, but suggests another possibility. Theres something to be said about Pennsylvanians that they value their local communities and where theyre from, said Yost. They dont say Im a Pennsylvanian. Theyll say Im a Pittsburgher, or Im from Hershey. And at least in primary elections, that local element definitely has an effect on the ballot. Yost cited a number of facts: Even in an age of nationalized politics and strong partisanship, Pennsylvanians still display a strong degree of regional loyalty when voting perhaps not surprisingly in a state with one of the lowest rates of in- or out-migration in the country. That local element, he suggests, may make Pennsylvanians likelier to get excited about a popular local politician, even if hes the No. 2. He also noted that the last time any Pennsylvania public official was nominated for vice president was in 1844. Pennsylvania isnt even in Kopkos data, said Yost. (Kopkos study goes back to 1884.) Kopko acknowledged that whether or not Pennsylvania is special, there are dynamics in this election that are unique. More than in other years, Harris is still introducing herself as a presumptive nominee, said Kopko. For that reason, the introduction of the vice president could be more influential than usual in setting the tone for the Harris campaign. But again, that effect could be felt nationwide. Not just in Pennsylvania. Thats not to say Kopko thinks there are no circumstances under which a Shapiro pick might matter here come November. If we have a Florida-like situation, it could matter, Kopko said, referencing the historically close 2000 election. Maybe there are a few hundred people who [would have] voted for Harris because she picked Shapiro. Pennsylvania elections are close, but they usually arent usually that close. At a margin of tens of thousands, Kopko said, I would doubt this is the variable that makes the difference. In the four short years since starting our Australian energy practice, we have grown to become one of Australias leading specialist brokers in this important industry sector, working with some of Australias largest developers to help them deliver on their ambitions. As we continue to grow our energy team, Diannes appointment provides us with a deep and respected skillset as well as much needed additional capacity to allow us to grow our business further still, and to continue to deliver on the promises that we make to our valued clients, he said. We are incredibly proud of the business we are building at BMS, and in particular in the quality of talent in people like Dianne and Toby that we are able to attract. Crawford is known for being very people focused, recruiting the best talent, and an unwavering commitment to ongoing development of that talent. As a leader of people, those things are really important to me, and its critical to know the company thinks in a like-minded way, he said. Our construction and power team is a talented group, and Im keen to see us become even more connected because thats how we can share market trends and build to understand the needs of our clients in an even deeper way. We saw that if theres a way that we can work with our business partners to help upskill that next generation of employees to add additional value within their own business, then why not do it? said Gronert. That was the original concept and weve started to flesh it out for that purpose. Additionally, ANZIIF had rolled out free weekly webinars to address key topics within the insurance and financial sectors, such as the concept of proximate cause, managing personal finances, and using AI in insurance. We are looking forward to our partnership with Curotech and its team of specialist experts, who, like us, weave technology and data analysis into every facet of their strategy, Allkins said. Meanwhile, Wallace Welch & Willingham president Jon Hammond had this to say about the merger: Our search for the next step in our companys growth story was driven by a desire to find a partner that was like us but had the resources, specialty expertise, and a culture that puts clients and employees first we found that with IMA a regional agency with national scale. I send my congratulations to John on his well-deserved promotion. Johns legal expertise, coupled with his knowledge of the Ascot US business, and the trust and respect of his colleagues make him an obvious choice for the role, said president and CEO of Ascot Group Jonathan Zaffino. Debby is projected to slow down as it moves into northern Florida and the Southeast US, bringing the risk of excessive rainfall and flooding, Hartley said. Forecasts indicate up to 30 inches of rain, particularly in Georgia and South Carolina, which could surpass recent historical records. Debby's combination of hurricane-force winds, storm surge, heavy rainfall, and potential tornadoes underscores the complex risks associated with hurricanes for the insurance industry. This post is part of a series sponsored by AgentSync. In the insurance industry, the term termination can refer to a few different things. First, there are policy terminations. These occur when an insurance policy runs its course and the insured or the carrier decides not to renew the contract. Theres also termination insurance a type of business liability coverage that protects an employer in the event theyre sued by a former employee for wrongful termination. In this blog, were focused on another type of termination: The one that occurs when the business relationship between an insurance producer and a carrier comes to an end. Insurance producer appointments and terminations In the past, weve talked in detail about carrier appointments, which mark the start of a working relationship between insurance carriers and producers. Now, were focusing on the other side of the coin. All good things must come to an end, and when it comes to the relationship between an insurance producer and a carrier, that end is called a termination. What is an appointment termination? Terminations occur when the appointment between a carrier and an individual producer or agency comes to an end, making them a major part of the producer offboarding process. You can think of appointment terminations as an acknowledgement by the state, the carrier, the producer, and any other stakeholders that the producer is no longer permitted to sell a carriers products. While terminations sometimes mean barring a producer only from selling a specific product line issued by a carrier, or only in a specific state, they can also constitute a total relationship end. It sounds harsh, but there are various reasons for terminations and only some are based in hostility. 4 common reasons for insurance producer terminations 1. The producer isnt selling For a producer/carrier relationship to be successful, a producer needs to sell enough of the carriers products to justify the carrier paying to maintain said producers appointment in a given state. Appointment renewal fees may not seem like a significant expense, but when operating at scale, variable costs like these add up fast. Paying to keep producers on when they arent bringing in revenue is just bad business, so if a producer isnt selling it may be cause for termination. In other words, these types of terminations are a classic case of Its not you, its meOK, actually it is you. Side note Sometimes the lack of selling is predicted, like when it comes to the end of Medicare open enrollment season. In this case, both the producer and carrier understand the temporary nature of their relationship and the onus is on the carrier to encourage the producer to return year-over-year by creating a positive onboarding and offboarding experience. A termination filing may be specific to a line of authority or state, as well, where the carrier terminates the producers appointment just for that business or region in which the producers not showing success, while keeping up appointments in areas they have active sales. 2. The producer leaves by choice Jobs arent forever. Its completely natural for a producer/carrier relationship to end simply because the producer chooses to walk away. Talent in the insurance industry isnt exactly young, so its possible the termination had to do with a producers retirement from the workforce. Or maybe, the producer simply decided to pursue a career in a different industry altogether, like basket weaving or underwater welding. 3. The producer passes away Jobs arent forever, and neither are people. This ones a little grim, but when a producer dies, its fair to say their existing working relationships must also come to an end. 4. The producer violates a state regulation or law Perhaps the juiciest of all reasons for termination are terminations for cause, which occur when a producer has violated a state regulation or law resulting in the suspension or loss of their license. The Producer Licensing Model Act (PLMA) lays out 14 reasons an agents license may be suspended or revoked, which weve covered in detail here. Whats important to note is, while termination for cause absolutely occurs when a producer commits a severe offense like financial fraud, it also occurs when a producer is acting outside of compliance with any applicable laws and regulations, whether intentionally or not. In fact, some states go as far as to automatically terminate all appointments the moment a producers license expires. Agency terminations Sometimes, carriers need to terminate their relationship with an entire insurance agency rather than just a single producer. Agency terminations can happen for a variety of reasons. It could be that the agency was part of a recent merger or acquisition, or perhaps the agency is under regulatory investigation. Whatever the reason, offboarding an entire agency means carriers may need to track down and offboard every producer with ties to that agency. Done by hand, these bulk terminations can be a significant challenge for a carriers operations team, who might struggle for days or even weeks checking and rechecking that all relevant producers are offboarded correctly. The termination process No matter the reason for termination, the process to get the job done remains relatively standard. In each case, the carrier must first notify the state department of insurance of the appointment termination. In most cases, termination reporting is done via NIPR. Many states require carriers to report the cause of termination. However, this is the insurance industry were talking about, so state variations do exist. Section 15 of the PLMA requires insurers to report all terminations of producer appointments to the insurance commissioner as well as the affected producer within 30 days of their occurrence. Terminations for cause require insurers to submit a more detailed report to both the state and the producer, along with any internal investigative information, also within 30 days. While some states allow carriers to deliver termination notifications to the relevant producers via email, others still require documentation to be delivered on paper via snail mail. Optimize terminations with modern insurtech Delays in the flow of termination information can result in serious compliance missteps, like a producer selling products for a carrier he or shes no longer appointed with. To avoid falling into legal hot water, carriers and MGA/MGUs can leverage a producer compliance management solution to help communicate license expirations and appointment terminations to all relevant parties in real-time. AgentSyncs suite of solutions help insurance organizations maintain compliance throughout the entire producer lifecycle, from onboarding to termination and everything in between. If youre ready to see how smarter, more efficient producer management can benefit your business, contact one of our experts today. Topics Carriers The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has agreed to hear an appeal from the family of a Philadelphia woman whose 2011 stabbing death was initially ruled a homicide before the medical examiner switched it to suicide after police objected. First-grade teacher Ellen Greenberg, 27, was found in her apartment with 20 stab wounds. Police considered her death a suicide because her apartment door was locked from the inside and her boyfriend who said he found her after breaking down the door had no defensive wounds. Philadelphia Medical Examiner Marlon Osbourne initially ruled her death a homicide, noting the large number of stab wounds, including 10 to the back of her neck. After police publicly challenged the findings, Osbourne switched the ruling to suicide without explanation. Greenbergs parents are seeking to have the ruling changed back to homicide. The city has objected, arguing that state law makes clear that a medical examiner can be wrong as to the manner of death yet cannot be compelled to change it. In Tuesdays order, the Supreme Court said it will consider whether executors and administrators of an estate have standing to challenge an erroneous finding recorded on the decedents death certificate where that finding constitutes a bar or material impediment to recovery of victims compensation, restitution or for wrongful death, as well as private criminal complaints. Joseph Podraza, the lawyer for Greenbergs parents, told The Philadelphia Inquirer that his clients were elated by the Supreme Courts decision to take the case. He said death rulings can impact survivors ability to access insurance money and victims funds. He also questioned giving a coroner or medical examiner absolute discretion that cant be challenged. Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Pennsylvania The drunk driver who killed four people and injured nine more when he crashed his SUV into a Long Island nail salon was driving 78 mph (125 kph) at the time of the crash, prosecutors said Thursday as the driver pleaded not guilty to a multitude of charges that include murder and vehicular manslaughter. Steven Schwally, 64, entered the pleas to a 38-count indictment for the deadly June 28 crash at the Hawaii Nail & Spa store in Deer Park. The Legal Aid Society of Suffolk County, which is representing Schwally, had no comment on the charges. Schwally had earlier been charged with driving while intoxicated for the crash that killed an off-duty New York Police Department officer and three other people. Newsday reported that several people who were injured in the crash were in court Thursday when Schwally was indicted on the new charges. State Supreme Court Justice Richard Ambro remanded Schwally to jail without bail. Prosecutors said in court papers that Schwally purchased two 375-milliliter bottles of Montebello Long Island Iced Tea at 11 a.m. on the day of the crash. The cashier who sold him the 42-proof beverage told investigators that Schwally, a retiree who previously worked for a private security firm, was a regular at the liquor store and always made the same purchase of Montebello Long Island Iced Tea, paying $13.99 for two bottles. After his purchase, Schwally drove around Deer Park until about 4:30 p.m. when he plowed his Chevrolet Traverse into the front of the nail salon, dragging four people under the vehicle and finally crashing into the back of the store, prosecutors said. Investigators determined that he was driving 78 mph (125 kph) one second before the crash, prosecutors said. Prosecutors said previously that Schwally had a blood alcohol content of 0.17, more than twice the legal limit of 0.08, at the time of his arrest. Schwally displayed a total disregard for public safety and a depraved indifference to human life, Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney said, adding, The defendant had been drinking all day, we allege. A Legal Aid attorney described Schwally at his earlier arraignment as a Marine veteran who had lived in Suffolk County for 50 years. Prosecutors said Schwally had no regular address and had been living in hotels for more than a year. Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Personal Auto Cash-strapped Thames Water is seeking to strike a deal with its regulator to avoid a fine of 104 million ($133 million) for polluting rivers. Industry regulator Ofwat said the utility released raw sewage from wastewater treatment works for years without permission. It also fined Yorkshire Water 47 million and Northumbrian Water 17 million for similar failures at treatment plants. The Thames fine which represents 9% of the sales income of the companys sewage business is a major blow to the utility, which is running out of money after shareholders halted new equity injections and its parent company defaulted on debt. Ofwat has suggested the company should be eventually broken up. UK Water Companies Lambasted by Environment Agency for Sewage Releases Thames, the UKs biggest water and sewage provider, said it was hoping to avoid the fine by agreeing a plan with Ofwat to fix spills at its sewage treatment plants. The company has already earmarked just over 1 billion to fix the 157 non-compliant facilities by 2030. But it doesnt have the backing of its shareholders to deliver it. Until now, most of the public concern around sewage in Englands waterways centered on storm overflows across the wider sewer network. But Ofwat and the Environment Agency have also been focusing on spills at treatment plants. The investigations found companies are breaching their environmental permits by releasing raw, untreated sewage into waterways. Any decent company knows what its regulatory obligations are and its their job to finance that. Those fines now have to be paid by the shareholders, said Lynn Park, Ofwats senior director for casework, enforcement and customers, in an interview. We are encouraged that Ofwat recognizes that in order to resolve the issues identified any redress needs to be deliverable, affordable and financeable, Thames said in an emailed statement. Ofwat may decide not to issue an enforcement order, or decide to impose a reduced or no financial penalty at the conclusion of the consultation period if the company is showing a commitment to resolving its issues. Thames Water only has enough cash to last through May 2025. Its parent company has defaulted on about 1.4 billion ($1.8 billion) of debt, while shareholders have declared its next big business plan uninvestible and the regulator called it inadequate. Creditors to the utility are currently in negotiations with the company ahead of a potential debt restructuring. More pressure on its finances makes the process all the more urgent for the company and potentially strengthens the position of bondholders. Work Needed Ofwat said more needs to be done. It found that Thames had known about some of the problems since 2017, and had failed to fix them. It also said the companys cost estimates have been rising and existing projects have been delayed. Some plants were supposed to be fixed by the end of this year. They would have to show that they have looked at all of their assets, their storm overflows, and theyve identified anywhere theres non-compliance and then they have a plan to remediate that non-compliance as quickly and efficiently as possible, said Park. Thames is already trying to avoid further potential fines from Ofwat for breaching its license last month after it was downgraded to junk. Its also facing fines for failing to produce a satisfactory business plan, and for paying dividends to shareholders last year. The latest fine also raises the risk that Thames will face a criminal prosecution by the Environment Agency, which is carrying out a similar investigation into illegal spills at treatment works. The agency has already fined Anglian Water 50,000 as part of its investigation. Companies wont be able to recover the money for any proposed penalties from customers and Ofwat will ensure that customers are not charged twice where additional maintenance is required, the regulator said. The utilities can appeal Ofwats decision before Sept. 10, after which the watchdog will make its final decision. Park said her team was planning to conclude its investigations on three more companies for similar breaches later this year. Photograph: Thames Water company logo displayed on protective barriers. Photo credit: Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg Copyright 2024 Bloomberg. German prosecutors have charged another two former Wirecard executives, according to a statement from their Munich office on Tuesday, casting their net wider in investigations into one of Germanys biggest corporate scandals. Wirecard collapsed in June 2020 over a 1.9 billion euro ($2.1 billion) hole in its balance sheet, shaking up Germanys business establishment and turning the spotlight on politicians who backed it, as well as regulators who took years to investigate allegations against the firm. Alexander von Knoop, who served as finance chief of the now-defunct online payments company, and Susanne Steidl, its board member for product development, have been charged with several counts of embezzlement, the state prosecutors office said. Von Knoop has also been charged with aiding and abetting embezzlement, it added in a statement. The two former executives allegedly waved through loans and other payments even when some were in arrears on interest and repayment was questionable, according to prosecutors. Wirecard AG suffered losses of several hundred million euros as a result of all these breaches of trust, the prosecutors office said. The law firm representing von Knoop said he had not been aware of any wrongdoing to the detriment of Wirecard AG and its shareholders by others at the company. At no time did Mr von Knoop have the intention or even the idea of harming Wirecard Group companies in his actions, the firm said in a statement, adding the von Knoop had cooperated with investigators throughout their investigation. The law firm representing Steidl had no comment on the charges. Von Knoop and Steidl join other managers facing legal action over the scandal. CEO Markus Braun, deputy finance chief Stephan von Erffa and Wirecards Asia representative Oliver Bellenhaus are currently on trial in Munich for alleged fraud and falsifying financial statements. A decision is pending on whether von Knoop and Steidl will stand trial. ($1 = 0.9166 euros) (Reporting by Alexander Huebner and Joern Poltz in Munich, writing by Rachel More, editing by Miranda Murray, Jan Harvey and Sharon Singleton) Photograph: The logo of former payment company Wirecard pictured at the headquarters in Munich, Germany, Monday, July 20, 2020. (AP Photo/Matthias Schrader) Related: Topics Numbers Germany This edition of International People moves details appointments at Arch Insurance International and Price Forbes Singapore. A summary of these new hires follows here. Arch Insurance International Promotes Penberthy to CFO Arch Insurance International announced the promotion of Marie Penberthy to the position of chief financial officer, subject to regulatory approval. As CFO, Penberthy will be responsible for the finance function, including accounting, financial planning and analysis, and reporting. Based in London, she will report to Hugh Sturgess, president and chief executive officer of Arch Insurance International. Penberthy joined Arch Insurance (UK) Ltd. in 2022 as a financial controller before becoming CFO of the UK operations in December 2023. Previously, she was corporate financial controller at Talbot Underwriting, and during her 22-year career has held several senior financial roles exclusively in the insurance industry. Her appointment forms part of Archs succession planning strategy and follows the departure of Jason Kittinger from the role. Arch Insurance International is part of Bermuda-based Arch Capital Group Ltd. and includes Arch Insurance UK and the P/C insurance operations of Arch Insurance (EU) dac, as well as Archs insurance operations in Europe, Bermuda and Australia. *** Price Forbes Singapore Names Coates as Chief Broking Officer Julian Coates has been appointed chief broking officer for Price Forbes Singapore as the specialty broker seeks to build-out and further grow the business. Coates joins from Marsh-owned Honan Asia, where he was CEO and executive director for the business. In his new role he will be responsible for developing Price Forbes broking strategy in AsiaPac, setting the agenda for broking excellence across the business and support the overall business growth agenda. Coates has also held senior positions at Aon, Miller and Lockton. The role, which is based in Singapore, is part of significant investment from Price Forbes into the region and supports Price Forbes aim to become the regions preeminent specialty broker and industry leader. Im excited to join Price Forbes and the wider Ardonagh Group. Price Forbes reputation as a leading independent insurance distribution platform, combined with the teams extensive experience and commitment to innovation, aligns perfectly with my own professional goals and values, commented Coates, who has more than a decade of experience in the Asian market. Im very much looking forward to connecting with the business across major global broking hubs and I cant wait to meet the teams and stakeholders to identify more opportunities for growth which serve the unique needs of the Asian market. Price Forbes is part of Ardonagh Specialty, an independent specialty broker in the London market. Analysis of 1.2 million workers compensation claims reveals the costliest claims are driven by the most common workplace accidents, according to Travelers 2024 Injury Impact Report. The data also shows first-year employees are still among those most vulnerable to injury. The largest workers compensation insurer in the United States examined more than 1.2 million workers compensation claims from 2017 to 2021. The findings revealed that the most common workplace accidents make up the majority of claim costs. The report found that the most frequent causes of injury were: Overexertion (29% of claims analyzed) Slips, trips and falls (23%) Being struck by an object (12%) Motor vehicle accidents (5%) Caught-in or caught-between hazards (5%) The top five drivers of severe claims ($250,000 or more), beginning with the costliest: Slips, trips and falls Overexertion Being struck by an object Motor vehicle accidents Caught-in or caught-between hazards Factors such as inexperience, workforce shortages and maintenance issues are all contributing to these unfortunate and often avoidable accidents, said Rich Ives, senior vice president of Business Insurance Claim at Travelers. While the number of injuries overall has been trending downward in recent years, our analysis shows that theres never been a better time for businesses to invest in workplace safety and injury prevention. New Employees Are Most Vulnerable The 2024 report found that employees in their first year on the job continue to be the most vulnerable to workplace injuries, accounting for 35% of all workers compensation claims. This years analysis also uncovered increases in missed workdays due to injuries. On average, injured employees missed 72 workdays, up one day from last years report. The construction industry continued to have the highest average number of lost workdays per injury (103 workdays, up from 99), followed by transportation (83 workdays, up from 77). Injured small-business employees missed an average of 82 workdays, up from 79. There are tangible consequences to any injury, and many include long-term, sometimes permanent, effects, said Chris Hayes, assistant vice president of Workers Compensation and Transportation, Risk Control, at Travelers. By understanding where the risks were in the past, businesses can better identify what to look for and tailor their risk management and employee safety strategies accordingly to help prevent injuries from happening. Findings were based solely on indemnity claims, where the injured employees could not immediately return to work and incurred medical costs. Topics Claims Commercial Lines Business Insurance The U.S. Commerce Department is expected to propose barring Chinese software in autonomous and connected vehicles in the coming weeks, according to sources briefed on the matter. The Biden administration plans to issue a proposed rule that would bar Chinese software in vehicles in the United States with Level 3 automation and above, which would have the effect of also banning testing on U.S. roads of autonomous vehicles produced by Chinese companies. The administration, in plans first reported by Reuters, will also propose barring vehicles with Chinese-developed advanced wireless communications abilities modules from U.S. roads, the sources added. Under the proposal, automakers and suppliers would need to verify that none of their connected vehicle or advanced autonomous vehicle software was developed in a foreign entity of concern like China, the sources said. The Commerce Department said last month it planned to issue proposed rules on connected vehicles in August and expected to impose limits on some software made in China and other countries deemed adversaries. Asked for a comment, a Commerce Department spokesperson said on Sunday that the department is concerned about the national security risks associated with connected technologies in connected vehicles. The departments Bureau of Industry and Security will issue a proposed rule that will focus on specific systems of concern within the vehicle. Industry will also have a chance to review that proposed rule and submit comments. A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington said electric vehicles are a globalized industry. Only division of labor and cooperation can bring mutual benefits, and only fair competition can bring technological progress, the spokesperson said adding: China urges the U.S. to earnestly abide by market principles and international trade rules, and create a level playing field for companies from all countries. China will firmly defend its lawful rights and interests. On Wednesday, the White House and State Department hosted a meeting with allies and industry leaders to jointly address the national security risks associated with connected vehicles, the department said. The sources said officials disclosed details of the administrations planned rule at that meeting. The meeting included officials from the United States, Australia, Canada, the European Union, Germany, India, Japan, South Korea, Spain, and the United Kingdom who exchanged views on the data and cybersecurity risks associated with connected vehicles and certain components. Also known as conditional driving automation, Level 3 involves technology that allows drivers to engage in activities behind the wheel, such as watching movies or using smartphones, but only under limited conditions. In November, a group of U.S. lawmakers raised concerns about Chinese companies collecting and handling sensitive data while testing autonomous vehicles in the United States and asked questions of 10 major companies including Baidu, Nio, WeRide, Didi, Xpeng, Inceptio, Pony.ai, AutoX, Deeproute.ai and Qcraft. In letters, the group said that in the 12 months ended November 2022 Chinese autonomous vehicle (AV) companies test drove more than 450,000 miles (724,205 km) in California. In July 2023, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said his department had national security concerns about Chinese AV companies in the United States. The administration is worried about connected vehicles using the driver monitoring system to listen in to or record conversations of occupants or take control of the vehicle itself. The national security risks are quite significant, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said in May. We decided to take action because this is really serious stuff. Topics USA China Google illegally monopolized the search market through exclusive deals, a judge ruled Monday, handing the government a win in its first major antitrust case against a tech giant in more than two decades. Judge Amit Mehta in Washington said that the Alphabet Inc. units $26 billion in payments to make its search engine the default option on smartphones and web browsers effectively blocked any other competitor from succeeding in the market. Googles distribution agreements foreclose a substantial portion of the general search services market and impair rivals opportunities to compete, Mehta said in a 286-page ruling. By monopolizing distribution on phones and browsers, Google has been able to consistently raise the prices of online advertising without consequences, Mehta said. The trial evidence firmly established that Googles monopoly power, maintained by the exclusive distribution agreements, has enabled Google to increase text ads prices without any meaningful competitive constraint, he wrote. Antitrust Allegations Antitrust enforcers alleged that Google has illegally maintained a monopoly over online search and related advertising. The government said that Google has paid Apple, Samsung Electronics Co. and others billions over decades for prime placement on smartphones and web browsers. This default position has allowed Google to build up the most-used search engine in the world and fueled more than $300 billion in annual revenue largely generated by search ads. Alphabet shares slid almost 4.5% to $159.25 at the close in New York. Apple Inc., which depending on the remedy could stand to lose billions in payments Google makes to have its search engine be the default browser on iPhones, fell 4.8% to $209.27. This victory against Google is a historic win for the American people, said Attorney General Merrick Garland. No company no matter how large or influential is above the law. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously enforce the antitrust laws. Google said it plans to appeal the decision. As this process continues, we will remain focused on making products that people find helpful and easy to use, Kent Walker, President of Google Global Affairs, said in a statement. Kent Walker leaves federal court in Washington, DC, in 2023. Photographer: Ting Shen/Bloomberg Mehta found that Google doesnt have a monopoly in the market for general search advertising, noting that competitors like Amazon.com Inc., Walmart Inc. and other retailers have begun to offer advertising related to searches on their own websites. But Google does have a monopoly over search text ads, which appear at the top of a search results page to draw users to websites, he said. Mehtas decision focuses solely on Googles liability, nine months after the Justice Department and a group of states held a 10-week trial in federal court. Mehta scheduled a hearing for next month to discuss the timing for a separate trial on the remedy. The Justice Department hasnt yet said what changes it will seek, though it presented evidence that efforts by European regulators to require Google to offer users a choice of search engines led few to switch. The agency could demand the separation of Alphabets search business from other products, like Android or Chrome, which if ordered by the judge would mark the biggest forced breakup of a US company since AT&T was dismantled in 1984. The judge could also stop short of ordering a full breakup and chose to unwind the exclusive search deals. Another option could be to require Google to license its search index, which is the data that it uses to build its search results. Antitrust enforcers separately sued Google for allegedly monopolizing the technology used to buy, sell and serve display advertising online. In that case, which is set for trial in Virginia federal court next month, the government is seeking to force Google to sell off some of its advertising technology products. Dan Morgan, a senior portfolio manager at Synovus Trust, said the decision adds to the black cloud of legal and regulatory uncertainty that has been hovering over the company. It does create some doubt in a company that already kind of disappointed on the quarter, he said. Measured Decision Mehtas decision is reasonable and balanced, accepting some but not all of the governments arguments, which will likely help in any appeals, said William Kovacic, who teaches antitrust at George Washington Law School. His decision is measured and not simply a credulous acceptance of the governments arguments, said Kovacic, who served as chair of the Federal Trade Commission during the George W. Bush administration. Some of the Mehtas analysis about advertising markets may raise difficulties for the government as it pursues its second case against Google, Kovacic said. But the opinion will likely be helpful for a number of the governments other antitrust cases awaiting trial against Apple, Amazon and Meta Platforms Inc. on how to consider justifications by the companies for their behavior, he said. Mehtas decision is bold in a legally careful way that will do well on appeal, said Rebecca Allensworth, an antitrust professor at Vanderbilt Law School. It will lay the blueprint for other tech cases going forward. Top Photo: Google headquarters in Mountain View, California, US, on Monday, Jan. 30, 2023. Photographer: Marlena Sloss/Bloomberg Copyright 2024 Bloomberg. Topics Legislation Brown & Riding, headquartered in Dallas, named Wes Benefield to its national management and professional liability practice as senior vice president and broker, D&O, E&O and cyber. Based in Fort Worth, Benefield has over 11 years of combined retailer, carrier and wholesale experience in the executive lines space. He most recently served as senior wholesale broker at U.S. Risk, LLC and previously served as assistant vice president at Zurich North America and vice president at Marsh. Topics Agencies A woman in north Georgia has been charged with insurance fraud after she claimed that a personal care device caused injuries that cost as much as $350,000 to treat. Kamala Anderson, 45, of Snellville, was arrested last month after the insurance company became suspicious, the Georgia Office of Commissioner of Insurance said. She had filed claims that a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS device, caused severe injuries that were treated at an Atlanta medical facility. TENS units are often used to provide mild electrical stimulation to promote pain relief and healing. Investigators with the state insurance office found that the woman had never received care at the facility and the submitted documents had been forged, Commissioner John King said in a statement. Anderson was arrested by the Gwinnett County Sheriffs Office and was released on bond. Topics Fraud Georgia Three suspects pleaded guilty to insurance fraud in May and June after investigations by Washington Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidlers Criminal Investigations Unit. The fraud cases included a suspect from Qatar who had been on a most wanted list since 2013, a suspect in a home burglary claim with falsified items and a suspect in an auto policy purchased after a collision. Ahmed Mesbah of Qatar, formerly from Seattle, pled guilty in King County Superior Court to two counts of filing a fraudulent insurance claim, after an investigation by CIU. Mesbah was on Kreidlers Insurance Fraud Most Wanted list since 2013, when he reportedly filed two claims for stolen vehicles that he had shipped to Liberia. After having difficulties renewing his passport due to the longstanding warrant for his arrest, Mesbah contacted the King County Prosecutors Office to get his case resolved. On June 27, Mesbah flew back to the U.S. and pled guilty to the two charges. Mesbah filed a motor vehicle theft claim with GEICO on April 23, 2013, claiming his 2011 Honda CBR 1000 motorcycle worth $11,253 was stolen. A few months earlier, Mesbah had reported his 1998 Toyota RAV4 stolen and was paid $8,860.64. After the second theft claim, GEICO investigated further and discovered that both of Mesbahs vehicles had been exported to Liberia in October 2012, according to investigators. When confronted with the shipping documentation from the U.S. Customs and Homeland Security, Mesbah subsequently withdrew his claim for the stolen Honda and repaid the $8,860 hed been paid for his fraudulent Toyota claim. GEICO referred the claims to CIU to conduct a criminal investigation. His jail time was suspended but he was ordered to serve 24 months of probation and pay $500 in court fees. Duy Thai pled guilty to one count of fraudulent insurance claim in May and June in King County Superior Court. Thai, of Kent, was recently convicted after an investigation by CIU. The Kent home where Thai lived with his parents was burglarized on Jan. 14, 2022. He handled the claim with American Family insurance and filed a claim on his parents behalf on Jan. 17 that stated $43,130 worth of items were stolen. He submitted various invoices and receipts as proof of ownership. American Family issued a payment of $34,673 within a few days, and later conducted a claim review and discovered an invoice for a Prada handbag showed the item had been returned prior to the theft. American Family found several other receipts showing items returned before the burglary. The company issued a stop payment on the check and referred the claim to CIU. Thai was ordered to serve 24 months of probation and complete 40 hours of community service. Lesoo Vaafuti, of Pacific, pled guilty to one count of filing a fraudulent insurance claim in June in King County Superior Court. Vaafuti was involved in a single vehicle collision on March 21, 2021, in Maple Valley, which was investigated by Maple Valley police. Four days after the collision, Vaafuti bought an auto insurance policy with Progressive for her Nissan Altima. On April 5, 2021, Vaafuti electronically submitted a damage claim to Progressive stating the collision had occurred on April 4. Progressive denied the claim for $9,129 after discovering the loss occurred prior to the policy inception and referred it to CIU. She received a suspended sentence for her jail time and was ordered to serve 24 months probation in addition to completing 80 hours of community service. Topics Fraud Washington Japan has overtaken the UK in Irelands used car imports market, signifying a notable trend shift post-Brexit, data from automotive data supplier, Cartell reveals. Over the past decade, Japanese imports have increased nearly tenfold, from 2,321 in 2014 to 21,716 in 2023. In contrast, imports from the UK, traditionally Ireland's top supplier, have declined from 44,939 in 2014 to 14,904 in 2023. Like many Irish industries, the automotive sector has had to rapidly adapt to changing import costs and conditions from the UK market post-Brexit," said Wesley Littleford, Cartells Commercial Operations Manager. "The Japanese market has emerged as a more affordable alternative for dealerships and individual buyers alike. In 2015, there were twice as many used UK imports as Japanese imports arriving in Ireland, with the number of cars coming from across the Irish sea peaking in 2019 before declining rapidly the following year due to Brexit. Between 2020 and 2022, Japanese imports nearly doubled year on year, rising from 4,575 in 2020 to 9,805 in 2021, and 18,524 in 2022. This trend resulted in twice as many used Japanese imports as UK imports in 2023. Since the UKs exit from the EU, Irish buyers have faced increased costs and paperwork when importing vehicles from the UK, whereas favourable depreciation rates for cars in Japan mean high-quality vehicles available at lower rates. Japanese vehicles are also increasingly seen as reliable and well-maintained, providing good value for money, says Cartell. While Japanese imports have surged, Cartell data reveals that European models are still highly favoured. Volkswagen is the most popular car maker imported from Japan, with the Golf and Polo taking the top spots. Audi and the A3 are the next most imported make and model. Despite the popularity of Japanese-made European models, brands like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are also gradually increasing in popularity. Most Japanese cars being imported are aged between 6-10 years, with 73% having petrol engines so far in 2024. In comparison, 22.8% are petrol-electric hybrids, Cartell found. Japanese vehicles often have more advanced technology and fuel efficiency compared to older UK models, which is a positive step towards reducing Irelands emissions and promoting fuel-efficient alternatives, the data supplier added. "While these vehicles need to comply with EU regulations, it can also be seen as a positive impact on niche businesses providing these compliance checks, potential modifications, and adjustments to supply chain and logistics." A local community group is stepping up its campaign to oppose a wind farm at Lemanaghan, Co Offaly, following receipt of new draft proposals which, it says, threaten an area with one of the highest concentrations of wetland archaeological sites in Europe. The plan, drawn up by Bord na Mona and SSE Renewables, will be submitted to An Bord Pleanala in the coming months as part of a planning application to build 15 wind turbines, standing 220 metres high, on Lemanaghan bog in northwest Offaly. Earlier this year, the two entities joined forces on a green electricity project that will spend up to 1bn in the next decade on onshore wind farms to supply electricity to almost 500,000 homes in the midlands. Lemanaghan is one of the initial three projects in a portfolio that includes Garryhinch in counties Laois and Offaly and Littleton, Co Tipperary. All three are already in pre-planning. SUSTAINABILITY & CLIMATE Check out our Sustainability and Climate Change Hub where you will find the latest news, features, opinions and analysis on this topic from across the various Irish Examiner topic desks and their team of specialist writers and columnists. The proposed development, including the Draft Amenity Plan, will not impact on areas of high ecological or archaeological heritage importance or on any other areas of environmental significance, the revised proposal says. The Lemanaghan Bog Heritage and Conservation Group, however, vehemently disagrees, saying that the entire bog, all 1,200 hectares of it, should be left untouched. (Left to right)KK Kenny, Ciara Egan, Sean Corcoran, Sean Halligan and Seamus Corcorcan with a model showing the scale of the turbines planned for Lemanaghan Bog. Local historian and group member Seamus Corcoran says it is not only unique in Ireland, but in Europe, given the extraordinary concentrations of archaeological finds in the area. They include the remains of a monastic site, founded by St Machan in the 7th century, a very significant pilgrim trackway, St Manchans shrine, considered to be a masterpiece of medieval art, and a very important early medieval crozier. The area in at Lemanaghan, Co Offaly, also includes a pilgrim trackway, St Manchans shrine, considered to be a masterpiece of medieval art, and a very important early medieval crozier. You wouldnt build a wind farm on nearby Clonmacnoise so why build one here on a similar monastic site with the one of the highest density of wetland archaeological finds in Europe? said group member KK Kenny. The plan to site a wind farm at Lemanaghan has drawn vigorous local opposition since it was first mooted in 2021. Some 2,200 objections were submitted to Offaly County Council in an attempt to stop councillors zoning the bog suitable for wind farm development. Councillors voted by nine votes to eight to accept the controversial rezoning. The project has been at pre-planning stage since 2021, but the local conservation group received an updated draft proposal two weeks ago. At this time, our focus remains on preserving the unique and peaceful character of this special place, and we believe that the proposed development will significantly impact its natural and historical integrity, said another member, Aoife Phelan. The Lemanaghan Bog Heritage and Conservation Group say that the entire bog, all 1,200 hectares of it, should be left untouched. Kevin ODwyer, metalworker, photographer and co-author of Saint Manchans Shrine, said he was very disheartened to hear that Bord na Mona was following through on its proposed wind farm at Lemanaghan bog. It is one of the richest wetland archaeological sites in Europe and traces of human activity date back to 3500 BC, he said. He said the site needed protection for future generations due to its rich archaeological content, which is part of a much larger complex that incorporates Lemanaghan monastic site and the Pilgrims Path. The site is part of a much larger complex that incorporates Lemanaghan monastic site and the Pilgrims Path. It is time for the Offaly County Manager, county and national representatives, the Heritage Council, and the National Museum to recognise its importance and make a strong representation to planning authorities and the government to stop the destruction of this important archaeological site. Have we not learned from previous short-term gains over the years? Once this site is ripped up there is no turning back, he said. A Bord Na Mona spokesperson said: The archaeological, architectural and cultural heritage of Lemanaghan Bog, and its surrounds, will be considered as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) that will accompany the planning application for the proposed development. "When the Bord na Mona/SSE Electricity joint venture was announced in March, Environment Minister Eamon Ryan welcomed it saying it was one of the largest onshore renewable energy joint ventures in the history of the State. A spokesperson for his department said he was precluded from commenting on individual planning applications, but added: The minister, as always, encourages all renewable energy developers and all relevant stakeholders to undertake extensive and constructive engagement with local communities before, during, and after the construction of any renewable energy project. A huge industry has emerged in recent years as China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union have made the safety of artificial intelligence a top priority. Obviously, any technology from cars and pharmaceuticals to machine tools and lawnmowers should be designed as safely as possible. But simply raising safety concerns isnt enough. In the case of AI, the debate is focused far too much on safety against catastrophic risks due to AGI [artificial general intelligence], meaning a superintelligence that can outperform all humans in most cognitive tasks. At issue is the question of alignment: whether AI models produce results that match their users and designers objectives and values a topic that leads to various sci-fi scenarios in which a superintelligent AI emerges and destroys humanity. The best-selling author Brian Christians The Alignment Problem is focused mostly on AGI, and the same concerns have led Anthropic, one of the main companies in the field, to build models with its own constitutions enshrining ethical values and principles. But there are at least two reasons why these approaches may be misguided. Safety debate First, the current safety debate not only anthropomorphizes AI, it also leads us to focus on the wrong targets. Since any technology can be used for good or bad, what ultimately matters is who controls it, what their objectives are, and what kind of regulations they are subjected to. No amount of safety research would have prevented a car from being used as a weapon at the white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia in 2017. If we accept the premise that AI systems have their own personalities, we might conclude our only option is to ensure they have the right values and constitutions in the abstract. But the premise is false, and the proposed solution would fall far short. To be sure, the counterargument is if AGI was ever achieved, it really would matter whether the system was aligned with human objectives, because no guardrails would be left to contain the cunning of a superintelligence. 'The more everyone is talking about how a superintelligent AI might act, the more the public will start to think AGI is imminent.' But this claim brings us to the second problem with much of the AI safety discussion. Even if we are on the path to AGI (which seems highly unlikely), the most immediate danger would still be misuses of non-superintelligent AI by humans. To simplify the discussion, let me refer to the human agents in charge of AI at this point as Corporation X. This company would be able to use its AI capabilities for any purpose it wants. If it wanted to destroy democracy and enslave people, it could do so. Threat of AGI The threat so many commentators impute to AGI would already have arrived before AGI. In fact, the situation would probably be worse than this description, because Corporation X could bring about a similar outcome even if its intention was not to destroy democracy. If its own objectives were not fully aligned with democracy (which is inevitable), democracy could suffer as an unintended consequence (as has been the case with social media). For example, inequality exceeding some threshold may jeopardise the proper functioning of democracy; but that fact would not stop Corporation X from doing everything it could to enrich itself or its shareholders. Any guardrails built into its AI models to prevent malicious use would not matter, because Corporation X could still use its technology however it wants. Likewise, if there were two companies, Corporation X and Corporation Y, that controlled highly capable AI models, either one of them, or both, could still pursue aims that are damaging to social cohesion, democracy, and human freedom. And no, the argument they would constrain each other is not convincing. If anything, their competition could make them even more ruthless. Thus, even if we get what most AI safety researchers want proper alignment and constraints on AGI we will not be safe. The implications of this conclusion should be obvious: We need much stronger institutions for reining in the tech companies, and much stronger forms of democratic and civic action to keep governments that control AI accountable. This challenge is quite separate and distinct from addressing biases in AI models or their alignment with human objectives. Why, then, are we so fixated on the potential behavior of anthropomorphized AI? Some of it is hype, which helps the tech industry attract more talent and investment. The more everyone is talking about how a superintelligent AI might act, the more the public will start to think AGI is imminent. Retail and institutional investors will pour into the next big thing, and tech executives who grew up on sci-fi depictions of superintelligent AI will get another free pass. We should start paying more attention to the more immediate risks. Irish anti-immigration agitators collaborated with groups now deemed international terrorist organisations and prominent neo-Nazis in transnational movements that may be funnelling increasing money to Ireland's far-right. News of the collaboration comes amid growing fears in Government over the rise of the far-right agitators in orchestrating anti-migrant protests and links with riots elsewhere. Taoiseach Simon Harris has condemned the use of the Tricolour amid violent scenes in the North, as police in Britain have struggled to quell rioting dominated by far-right groups. Justin Barrett, who ran in the recent European elections and was a founder of the ethno nationalist National Party, spoke on the Nordic Resistance Movements (NRM) podcast, an organisation designated as a terrorist group by the US State Department in June. NRMs violent activity is based on its openly racist, anti-immigrant, antisemitic, anti-LGBTQI+ platform," the US State Department said. The groups members and leaders have carried out violent attacks against political opponents, protesters, journalists, and other perceived adversaries." Members have also taken steps to collect and prepare weapons and explosive materials Mark Malone, a researcher with the Hope and Courage Collective formerly the Far Right Observatory said the Nordic Resistance Movement is a transnational group that brings together Nazi activists from Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Finland. Justin Barrett appeared in the podcast Nordic Frontier, the English language podcast of the Nordic Resistance Movement the week before the US state department announced that [the movement] was going to be categorized as specially designated global terrorists, he said. Recently, the Irish Times broke the news that a former Ku Klux Klan leader in the US was advising Irish far-right activists online about strategies for anti-immigration protests. People taking part in an anti-Islamic protest march through Belfast city centre following a gathering outside Belfast City Hall last Saturday. Homegrown far-right agitators are a more immediate domestic concern than high-profile foreign neo-Nazi agents, Mr Malone said. However, solidifying transnational relationships now may secure transnational funding streams for the far-right in Ireland in the near future, he added. Irish far-right online influencer Keith Woods (the online pseudonym of Roscommon man Keith OBrien) has collaborated on podcasts with British ethno-nationalist Mark Collett of Britains far-right Patriotic Alternative (PA). Patriotic Alternative supporters were reportedly at some of the violent rallies across Britain, in which a hotel housing asylum seekers was set on fire, police were hospitalised, businesses were looted, and vehicles were set on fire following misinformation spread online about the identity of a 17-year-old charged with the murder of three young girls stabbed at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport. Thought leaders and 'influencers' Links between Irish activists and the British far-right have been established for years, Mr Malone said. Direct connections are now being forged between recognised British far-right thought leaders and smaller Irish "influencers". Gavin Lowbridge, of OffGrid Ireland, had several neo-Nazis on his channel, Mr Malone said. These have included Australian Joel Davis, widely labelled an antisemite and neo-Nazi and "Raw Egg Nationalist", Mr Malone said. Theyre significant in the international scene and we found it surprising that people relatively down the far-right food chain here are in contact with them and interviewing them on their channels, Mr Malone said. In response to a query from the Irish Examiner, Mr Lowbridge said: "Our podcast is committed to being a platform for free speech, where we welcome individuals from all walks of life to share their views and perspectives." "At Offgrid Ireland, we believe that fostering open and inclusive discussions is essential for understanding and growth." We strive to provide a space where people can express their ideas freely, whether they align with mainstream views or offer alternative perspectives Links between the far-right in Ireland and the US are now also well established, Mr Malone said. Keith Woods would have extensive links in the US white supremacist and Nazi-adjacent terrain," Mr Malone said. He was recently a guest at the American Renaissance Conference, at which other guests included former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke, Mr Malone said. Flags do not matter as much as white skin in the transnational white nationalist movement, in which skin colour denotes brotherhood, he added. Transnational funding streams into this burgeoning Irish far-right movement may have grown from international funding of the anti-abortion movement in Ireland, Mr Malone said. Mr Barrett, who was born in Cork but raised in Tipperary, was an active member of anti-abortion trad-Catholic Youth Defence which had US funding Mr Malone said. And Keith Woods did not contest the fact that he was raising 25,000 a year through online donations, people subscribing to his podcast and people donating through micropayments processes online And even though he's based in Ireland, he also has an international audience. It's unlikely he was raising 25,000 from white supremacists in Ireland, there just are not that many people. A Media Matters report found that Mr Woods was making hundreds of thousands of euros through monetised online content, with platforms like YouTube allowing him to stream content and permitting advertising on his channel. Following the publication of the Media Matters study, YouTube tightened control of his channel. That drive to make money from online content may also be pushing content to become more extreme, Mr Malone said. Riot police form a line on the Lower Ormeau Rd, Belfast, after people taking part in an anti-Islamic protest make their way through the area last Saturday. Picture Peter Morrison/PA Often there's a financial incentive for influencers to be churning out content. And in this competing space, what we've seen is most content getting increasingly radicalized and moving even further to the right to the extremes. Ireland must update its image of how it recognises neo-Nazis, who often no longer resemble the muscle-bound, short-haired, heavy-booted men of the 1930s and 1980s, Mr Malone said. A very structural attempt has been made to look different from that old stereotype, cleaning up the exterior image with people now often wearing suits, he said. Their strategy has changed from a "red pill" view where people were concerned about optics and would be slow to express racist, xenophobic positions unless they suspected they were talking to people who agreed with their views, he said, adding that the current lack of online regulation has allowed these activists to share their racist opinions openly and bring whomever along with them who chooses to join. Its important for people to reimagine what new Nazis actually look like. They're not just skinheads in big boots "Very often they are people in suits who try to appeal in quite articulate ways," Mr Malone said. As arson attacks and violence continue at sites earmarked for refugee accommodation, what's important now is that those with racists views are separated from people with other concerns about their communities, Mr Malone said. "It's really important that those on the extremes are absolutely isolated from the conversation. There's no legitimacy for neo-Nazis being involved in conversations about who gets to live or not in our communities," he said. Justin Barrett and Keith Woods were contacted for comment. The daughter of the man who sold rock and blues legend Rory Gallagher his iconic Stratocaster over 60 years ago has vowed to keep her auction fundraiser going until the hammer falls in her bid to buy it back for Ireland, and Cork. Music shop owner Sheena Crowley, whose father Michael Crowley owned the legendary Crowleys Music Shop on MacCurtain St in Cork city, also issued a heartfelt plea for corporate donors or music stars to back her GoFundMe campaign, at it nears the 30,000 mark. People are great, they understand what were trying to do. Im going to keep pushing until the day of auction. And I will still believe we can do this until the hammer falls, she said. "Some business people have approached me to say they will support the campaign, and who knows, maybe The Edge might see this and help us out." Ms Crowley launched the fundraising campaign in early July when Gallaghers brother and former manager, Donal, announced he was putting the iconic guitar up for auction as part of the Rory Gallagher Collection through Bonhams in New Bond Street, London, on October 17. The sale will consist of guitars, amps and accessories from Gallaghers life and career, and includes the iconic 1961 Fender Stratocaster which he bought for 100 on credit from Michael Crowley in 1963. Rory Gallagher died in 1995. According to legend, it may have been the first Stratocaster to ever reach Ireland. It became synonymous with Gallagher and its wear and worn finish have made it one of the worlds most iconic electric guitars. It has featured in a number of landmark exhibitions, appeared on the cover of countless guitar magazines, and has been played by stars like Johnny Marr and Joe Bonamassa. Since 2004, Fender has created and sold replica models of the guitar as part of their artist signature series. Donal said last month that he decided to auction the collection following much deliberation and reviewing of all options and was doing it so that these emblems of his legacy can be enjoyed by others. Since 1995, I have always felt that there was a mission to be fulfilled to cement Rorys legacy and further widen the knowledge of his music, he said. It is difficult to separate or even begin to quantify the depth of relationship Rory had with his instruments, this decision is one I recognise as challenging for some, however, with the proceeds raised from this instrument sale we will continue to do further good for Rorys name and legacy, as well as assisting good causes, that my brother would have supported. Ms Crowley said she believes the guitar, which has become a symbol of what Gallagher means to musicians and fans worldwide, needs to come home to Cork. My father sold Rory the guitar, and I know the history, and sentiment that is attached to this, she said. Every year people visit us just to see because Crowleys sold him the guitar and it is where his story began, in a sense. It is incredible how he touched millions worldwide as a huge star, and remained true to himself, never compromising his ideals. It is hoped Gallagher's guitar will come home to Cork. He is a legend for that as much as he is for his playing. Issuing a specific appeal to the corporate and business community for help with the fundraising, she insisted its possible to reach her 1m target. We are currently almost at 30,000 but with a little help from the business community, and fans it is possible to achieve this, she said. We have lots of initiatives to drive the campaign over the next two months. We are planning a gig in September and well be selling t-shirts too. The plan is to have the guitar as the centre of attraction in a music and culture museum with a resource centre for musicians. It could potentially draw an extra 200,000 visitors to the city generating revenue and employment. Cork needs this. If you are a Rory Gallagher fan, this is easy because anyone who knows him understands he is a huge part of our Irish heritage but even if you dont please consider donating as this will inspire and enrich our music community and our culture. The guitar will be a monumental gift to future generations. Gallagher died in 1995, aged 47. Tanaiste Micheal Martin has said he will discuss the matter with Arts Minister Catherine Martin and it would be lovely if the guitar could be returned to Cork. The "appalling" violence in Britain and the North in recent days stems from "mindless, ill-informed stuff" facilitated by social media platforms, with Elon Musk's X particularly problematic, according to Tanaiste Micheal Martin. The Defence Minister admitted he was "very concerned" about what was happening in Britain and Belfast and the level of violence involved, saying governments have to tackle social media giants, only some of whom are cooperating with nations' leaders. He singled out Elon Musks X, formerly known as Twitter. I think Elon Musk and I think X is problematic; they have a totally different approach in this he said. Some social media platforms cooperate with state authorities, others don't." The Telegram platform was used during the Dublin riots, and there was massive traffic from North America during that event that was "pumped" into platforms in Ireland, he claimed. Speaking on Radio Kerry during a visit to Killarney, Mr Martin said many of the people attacked in Belfast had been there for 35 years. The level of violence we are seeing in Britain we are seeing in Northern Ireland and to a lesser extent in the Republic simply has to stop. "The level of aggression and hate that comes from that is something we should have no part of in Ireland," he said. In a democracy, there is no issue with people protesting and arguing and advocating for particular positions, so therefore there is no need to be wearing balaclavas and material that is intimidating to people, Mr Martin added. There is a lot of uninformed stuff in terms of the wider migration issue, he claimed. I am very taken aback at what has happened in Britain in terms of the nature and scale of violence, and the undermining of basic values and principles that weve all lived by in democracies. Respect for difference is fundamental to our value system, Mr Martin said. There is a real issue with social media platforms, according to the Tanaiste. A much firmer line has to be taken by governments in terms of social media and facilitation of online needless aggression and violence on the streets, Mr Martin said. What a week. What a week. Ive never sat in front of my TV before, unable to speak because of the emotions engendered by the Olympic Games. First it was Celine Dion. Im not a fan of her music, but I dont think Ive ever seen anything as graceful and as courageous as her performance of Edith Piafs Hymne a lamour on the balcony of the Eiffel Tower. When you think about what she has been through and how unlikely it was that she could stand, let alone sing, it was both heartbreaking and heart-lifting to hear her voice soar over the city of light. It seemed to set a tone for an Olympics that had the capacity to lift the spirits of a wounded world. And boy has it done that, not least for us. The grace of Rhys McClenaghan, the confidence of Daniel Wiffen, the guts of Kellie Harrington. Were seeing a brand of Irish sport the like of which weve never seen before. Were so used to being nearly there, plucky outsiders and underdogs. And then we realise that the rest of the world sees Paul ODonovan and Fintan McCarthy as maybe the best scullers theres ever been. As Im writing this, Ireland has three gold medals, a silver, and three bronze. And theres another week to go. And of course theyre our medals. Never mind the torture, the discipline, the endless hours and months and years of work these athletes have put into their sports. We mightnt have paid too much attention as they were climbing, but now theyve reached the top of the mountain we all feel we belong there too. Its what sport does, isnt it? Hope versus hate I said earlier that a wounded world needs the uplift that the Olympic Games can bring. There was something immensely sad about watching the hate that has convulsed other places, while Paris is trying to inject hope. Especially perhaps Britain, where there are forces at work that only want to tear the country apart. While its athletes are doing them proud, its hate-fuelled thugs are destroying communities. I took part in a panel discussion on The Tonight Show on Virgin Media Ireland the other night, and we talked about the insidious rise of the far right in different countries. They posted a clip on X after the programme talking about fascism. "There's a form of politics that concentrates on making somebody else your enemy and blaming that somebody else for all your problems..."@fergusfinlay says fascism has found a home on the internet and on social media. #TonightVMTV pic.twitter.com/EPHpTBtT0Y TonightVMTV (@TonightVMTV) August 1, 2024 This is what I said: Theres a form of politics that concentrates on making somebody else your enemy and blaming that somebody else for all your problems... that brand of politics is best called fascism it has found a home now in the darker reaches of the internet. Somewhat to my surprise, one of Irelands far-right leaders emerged from whatever hole hes occupying to tell me that I dont know fascism when I see it (he didnt offer an alternative definition, but Im guessing I know what he means). I wont name this guy here, other than to say he describes himself as Irish: Banned by Twitter regime. Restored by Elon and X. He has 90,000 followers for his lies and an ego to match Theyre thriving on X, these guys, and they are determined to foment as much hate as possible on social media. They use something called disinformation. Its a polite word for vicious lies. If you look at any of their postings, they tell lie after lie. Theyre not harmless, victimless lies. The entire purpose of them is to persuade their readers, in short snappy soundbites, that there are enemies out there. Those enemies will take your jobs, prevent you from having a home of your own. These enemies will attack your wives and children... Theyre easy to spot, these enemies. They have different skin colours, different accents. They probably look poor, as if they have only recently arrived... However, its not just some branches of social media that support these lies. Smooth-talking (and less smooth-talking) politicians are joining in, especially in Britain and the US. Platforming Farage's fake sincerity In the immediate aftermath of the horrible attack in Southport, for example, Nigel Farage (who is totally opposed to street violence, of course) posted a message on X saying, essentially, that the truth was being withheld from the British people by the police and the authorities generally. Classic fake sincerity dripped off him effectively he was saying: Im not going to say it in so many words, because Im too clever and smarmy for that, but if you think theres a conspiracy around the identity of the young man charged with these terrible crimes, youre almost certainly right. Theres a TV station in Britain thats almost entirely devoted to this stuff (it gives free rein to Farage and others like him). Over the past weekend, one of the lead stories on its website spelled out the benefits Britain hands out to people who arrive illegally in small boats. They ran a poll asking viewers to vote on whether they were racist if they were worried about uncontrolled immigration. Presenter after presenter attacked British prime minister Keir Starmer for taking a planned holiday this week. When he decided not to go because of the trouble in the streets, they sneered at him for doing a u-turn. Is it any wonder there is so much trouble on the streets when there is so much dishonesty and corruption on social media and even in some aspects of the broadcast media? Proscribing and policing I suspect the new British government is going to see this as its first real test, and they are going to clamp down hard. It would not surprise me to see organisations such as the English Defence League, which seems to have had a resurgence since the Southport murders, outlawed and banned. I suspect that, by the end of this week, were going to see water cannons on the street in Britain. I wondered if their army might be deployed, although that seems like a very high-risk decision (and when Farage is calling for it, even more unlikely). Putting as much support as possible behind unarmed police is one thing. Bringing heavily armed soldiers into confrontation with thugs has the potential to go terribly wrong. Tackling disinformation at source Above all, the British government and every government in Europe needs to clamp down on the lies and hate being spewed on social media. Theres only one way to do that you neednt expect Elon Musk to listen to reason, so theres no point in asking the platforms to moderate themselves. But governments can control how X reaches your mobile phone or your computer. It arrives by virtue of an internet service provider. Theyre the one who supply the broadband that carries the platforms that disseminate the hate. Thats who they have to go after. The internet service providers the Vodafones and 3s and Eirs of the world have to be instructed that until there is an independent audit of the algorithms run by X and Facebook, they have to be removed from all the carriers. Governments can do that by emergency legislation if necessary and it is the only way to ensure that they no longer have built-in mechanisms that multiply hate, fear, and division, and that they operate with transparency. The bottom line is simple. They facilitate hate. We have to stop them. To be a real hero in Ireland, you have to be young, courageous, charismatic and preferably dead. Michael Collins comes to mind. This, of course, is not unique to our country. For Hamas, the assassination of the organisations political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, has also created another hero, or, in the lexicon of such infamous organisations, another martyr. New picture posters in his memory will, no doubt, appear in the region, with the halo-type aura to indicate he has gone to Jannah (heaven). Ismail Haniyeh was a key decision-maker behind the murderous attack which killed an estimated 1200 Israelis on October 7 last. Picture: AP /Hassan Ammar His passing will not be lamented in Israel. He was, after all, a key decision-maker behind the murderous attack which killed an estimated 1200 Israelis on October 7 last. Haniyeh was also a leading player in the Hamas negotiation team working on the proposed ceasefire deal. His elimination is not exactly a confidence-building measure in the efforts to achieve a ceasefire, the delaying of which may have been the intention behind the attack. However, the ultimate political aphrodisiac has to be surviving an assassination attempt, especially during an election campaign. For his supporters, Donald Trump has his candidature for the US presidency dramatically endorsed by Almighty God himself. In the aftermath of the assassination attempt on the Dear Leader, and the withdrawal of Joe Biden from the presidential campaign, his Republican party could have invited 'Jack The Ripper' to address a joint session of Congress and got away with it. Since the Victorian serial killer was no longer available, they went ahead with their long-standing invitation to embattled Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Does the truth really matter when you are speaking to the converted? Netanyahus surreal speech to US Congress As a defence analyst, I listened to Netanyahus speech. It was surreal. The representatives enthusiastically applauded his every comment, in a Pavlovian manner, including his Freudian slip of the tongue that the Gaza war had the lowest ratio of combatants to non-combatants in the history of urban warfare. At face value, this actually means the highest ratio of civilian casualties to combatants. However, it is clear from his follow-up comments that what he meant to say was the lowest ratio of Gazan civilian casualties to Hamas terrorists. If he had referred to the lowest ratio of Israeli combat fatalities to Palestinian non-combatants, (killed) then it would have been a valid point. Last week, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) announced 331 of its soldiers had been killed since its ground offensive in Gaza began in late October. The Hamas-controlled Gaza Ministry of Health (GMH) currently puts the overall number of Gazan dead at over 39,550. The number of Hamas combatants killed is believed by UN agencies and foreign NGOs to be about 10% of the total fatalities, or about 4,000. The IDF estimates are about three times higher, saying 30% of the GMH figures of dead were combatants. Given for every fatality there are probably two to three times that number wounded/injured, this is consistent with the IDF assessment, two months ago, that 90% of Hamass military capabilities had been degraded. However, that assessment was wildly inaccurate, as shown by the intensity of IDF engagement with Hamas targets in most sectors of Gaza over the past two months. Benjamin Netanyahu speaking to a joint meeting of Congress on July 24. In the course of his address, he never directly acknowledged that the vast majority of Gazan dead were innocent civilians The Institute for the Study of War suggests the real figure is somewhere between the estimates of the IDF and foreign agencies. Obviously, even accepting 30% of the dead were Hamas fighters, it is an acknowledgement that at least 70% of the dead were innocent men, women and children. In the course of his address, Netanyahu never directly acknowledged that the vast majority of Gazan dead were innocent civilians. Instead, he inferred the dead were mostly Hamas combatants. He quoted an IDF commander in Rafah, who said 1,203 terrorists had been killed by the IDF, in the Rafah area, and only two dozen civilians died when a Hamas weapons depot exploded. Netanyahus narrative has been roundly contradicted by successive IDF spokesmen, who have long acknowledged there have been heavy civilian casualties in the Gaza war. The IDF explained the reason is that Hamas is using the Gazan civilian population as human shields. Hamas is locating much of its command, operational and logistical infrastructure, in densely populated areas, close to schools, hospitals, markets and residential areas. While true, it still does not explain why the IDF, with its wide range of military options available, chose the options that resulted in such a high level of civilian casualties, higher than civilian casualties in the current Russo-Ukrainian war. IDF mission An explanation of sorts might lie in how the IDF perceives its mission. The first priority in war is always the accomplishment of the mission, and the second priority is the welfare of the troops. In the case of the Israeli army, which relies heavily on reservists, the second priority must take into account, more so than usual, the extent to which Israeli public opinion will tolerate battlefield casualties. Israel is a more open society than many of its Arab neighbours and concealing its casualties would be virtually impossible. As a result, the IDF has been conducting a risk-aversion strategy in the case of the Gaza operation, maximising its superior firepower to minimise casualties among its own personnel. An additional factor was the need to avoid, where possible, casualties among the hostages being held by Hamas and its affiliated militias. The IDF has consistently said it has tried to avoid excessive casualties among the civilian population of Gaza. This it manifestly failed to achieve. While Hamas is guilty of war crimes in using the civilian population as human shields, the IDF will have to explain that the tactical gains achieved in each particular engagement justified the high loss of innocent lives. Use of disproportionate force is a war crime. There was a time when military war criminals would claim they were only following orders. Since failure to comply with orders, in wartime, could merit the death penalty, the usual recourse was to blame the political decision-maker. Just three weeks ago, in defiance of Netanyahus direction not to halt offensive operations against Hamas, the IDF conducted long tactical pauses to facilitate access of humanitarian aid to the Gazan population. Picture: AP/Leo Correa However, since the Nuremberg Trials, the military leadership are also held responsible for what they do or fail to do. The IDF is keenly aware the International Criminal Court (ICC) has jurisdiction for investigating war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Israeli-occupied Palestinian Territories. While Israel is not a member of the ICC, its citizens can be arrested in a growing number of jurisdictions on foot of an ICC warrant. It is interesting to note the IDF has taken decisions against government directions in the course of this war. Israel may be a democracy but the Governments relationship with the IDF is, to put it mildly, special. Just three weeks ago, in defiance of Netanyahus direction not to halt offensive operations against Hamas, the IDF conducted long tactical pauses to facilitate access of humanitarian aid to the Gazan population. This may have been prompted by legal advice to the IDF to uphold humanitarian law. Subsequently, aid organisations said the measure was ineffective, as the 12km strip of highway was not secured against looters. It did show, however, that the IDF is capable of implementing such pauses without compromising its operations. This may be significant in the context of implementing a phased ceasefire. To reassert his political authority, Netanyahu may well need to replace his defence minister and chief of staff. Until he does so, we can assume that, in certain circumstances, the IDF is prepared to act against government direction. This opens up the possibility that the IDF may eventually call the shots that will bring this conflict to an end. Dorcha Lee is a retired army colonel and defence analyst Could the US primary system a feature of presidential politics for more than 50 years be weakened by the Democrats choice to elevate Vice President Kamala Harris to the top of the ticket without a competitive nominating process? That may seem unthinkable to voters who have grown up with a democratic primary system, but party nominating contests have, in the past, similarly cut voters out of the process. Primaries have an inconsistent history in the US, as I learned in my research on political parties. When party leaders have seen it as being in their interest to give voters more influence in the primary process, they have done so. When they believed that less-democratic methods could lead to a better chance of victory in the general election, they have done that, too. You may not know that when you vote in a presidential primary, you arent technically voting for the candidate, but for delegates pledged to vote for that candidate at the partys national convention. Even when a candidate gets enough of these delegates to win, their candidacy becomes official only when the delegates vote at the convention. This year, something unusual is happening, because almost all of the delegates who were elected in the primaries to vote for Joe Biden are instead voting for Harris despite the fact that she was not on any primary ballot. When delegates, not voters, picked the nominee When the parties adopted the nominating convention as a means of selecting presidential candidates in the early 19th century the first Democratic National Convention was held in 1832 delegates to the national conventions were selected at local and state meetings, and then those delegates chose the partys nominee. Sometimes, the convention picked candidates with a lot of popular support, as when Republicans selected war hero Ulysses S. Grant in 1868. Sometimes, they picked someone most voters had never heard of, as when Democrats nominated Franklin Pierce in 1852. And sometimes they chose a favorite son who was chiefly popular in an influential state, such as Michigans Lewis Cass, who won the Democratic nomination and went on to lose the general election in 1848. And often, voters had the sense that the delegates were used as bargaining chips between influential party leaders. Primaries were based on the idea that voters should have more say in the choice of nominees. Some states and cities experimented with direct primary elections for lower-level offices in the late 19th century, but they were first applied to presidential nominating conventions in 1912. For a brief moment during the Progressive Era approximately 1901-1920 a growing number of national convention delegates were selected through primaries, while the remaining continued to be selected through traditional party caucuses and conventions. In 1912, 42% of GOP national convention delegates were selected in primaries, as were 33% of Democratic delegates. In 1916, the figures were 59% for the GOP and 54% for the Democrats a sign of the growing popularity of this democratic reform. That moment was short-lived, as 1920 marked the beginning of a long decline. In that year, the GOP percentage of direct primary-elected delegates declined to 58%, and the Democrats percentage declined to 45%. By 1932, the numbers had declined to 38% and 40%, respectively, and the party elites had more influence in both parties for the next 36 years. A little this, a little that After that, it was democracy lite for the presidential nominating system. Parties entered what political scientists call the mixed system, which lasted from the 1930s to the 1960s. Some convention delegates were selected in the meetings that had been the norm in the 19th century, even while a few were selected in primaries. Outsider candidates could get attention by competing in primaries, but they could not secure the nomination by doing so. The friction between these two approaches reached a peak in the embarrassing Democratic National Convention of 1968. Delegates elected in primaries and pledged to vote for Robert Kennedy or Eugene McCarthy were outvoted by delegates who supported Vice President Hubert Humphrey, whom party elites believed was more electable. Humphrey went on to lose the election to Richard Nixon. To avoid a repeat of that debacle, Democrats appointed a commission to rewrite rules for delegate selection in time for the 1972 convention. The McGovern-Fraser Commission recommended that more delegates be selected by primaries than by caucuses or conventions, making the nominating process more open to voters. In short, they aimed to end the mixed system and ensure that most convention delegates were selected in primary elections. As they implemented the new rules, giving the choice of the presidential nominee to voters, they rewrote Americans understanding of party democracy as popular, open and diverse. These democratic expectations have been slowly undermined in the years since. Party leaders have often had doubts about the voters ability to pick candidates likely to win in the general election. When Joe Biden (pictured) announced his decision to drop out of the 2024 race, many delegates who were elected in primaries specifically because they were pledged to vote for him declared their intent to vote for Harris. File photo: AP/Susan Walsh These doubts, for instance, were behind the Democrats creation of superdelegates in 1984. This gave convention votes to Democratic governors, members of Congress and members of the Democratic National Committee among others specifically to act as a check on Democratic voters. While there were never enough superdelegates to outvote the regular delegates pledged to vote for specific candidates, the expectation was that they could provide enough votes to elect a candidate preferred by political elites over a candidate popular among party faithful but likely to lose the general election. Over time, party elites officeholders, activists, donors and campaign professionals have come to figure out ways to assert power in the nominating process. These influential elites throw endorsements, funding and attention to a chosen few. A lot of political scientists have focused on the way these folks effectively decide which candidates are most likely to succeed, shaping the primary election long before the first voters tune in and the first votes are cast. To see this in action, look no further than the role that party insiders played in staving off a primary challenge to President Joe Biden ahead of the 2024 election and the role big donors later played in convincing Biden to drop out of the race by threatening to withdraw campaign contributions. Democrats less democratic When Biden announced his decision to drop out of the 2024 race, many delegates who were elected in primaries specifically because they were pledged to vote for him declared their intent to vote for Harris. With Biden out of the race, they are free to vote with their conscience, and no other candidate has emerged to challenge Harris. But for the first time since 1968, the Democratic nominee will win the nomination without winning a single primary vote. This may not be as much of a democratic backslide as that of the previous so-called mixed period. But it would be a culmination of the elite-oriented trends that have shaped the nominating process since 1984, in which party elites have played an increasingly large role in shaping the presidential nomination. This is not to add to the frequently heard concerns that democracy is in decline. It does mean that the Democratic Partys nomination process this year is less democratic than it was in 2020 when Democrats held a vigorous primary contest, even in the midst of a pandemic, or even the Republican Partys process this year when Donald Trump was challenged by four opponents, including Nikki Haleys failed but spirited primary campaign. For the first time since 1968, the Democratic nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris, will win the nomination without winning a single primary vote. Photo: AP/Joe Lamberti If Democrats are committed to a democratic nominating process, they could learn from the experience of the McGovern-Fraser Commission. They could acknowledge the democratic deficit in the 2024 process and revisit the rules by which the primaries are governed. Otherwise, one lesson of 2024 might well be that a democratic primary system is not essential to successful presidential candidates. The politicians in smoke-filled rooms will warn that primary challengers weaken incumbents and might cost the party its electoral ambitions in the general election. Theyll worry that acknowledging the glaring undemocratic nature of the 2024 process will weaken Harris against Trump. But if Democrats truly want to make this election about democracy, they might start by looking at the recent trends in their own house. On Monday, a US federal judge ruled Google has violated antitrust laws, saying the organisation is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly. Google disputes the ruling. Its president of global affairs, Kent Walker, said this decision recognises that Google offers the best search engine, but concludes that we shouldnt be allowed to make it easily available. Nevertheless, the landmark decision has shaken the foundation of Googles business, its search engine. For well over a decade, Google has been the dominant search engine in the market. The tech giant reportedly controls around 90% of the US online search market, leaving little room for competitors to make any claim. Google has been able to maintain this dominance through exclusive contracts with companies such as Apple and Samsung, which enable Google to be the default search engine on their platforms. These monopolistic practices have allowed Google to charge high prices for search advertising. Being the default browser across many platforms, this search engine has become the easiest, quickest and most reliable resource for most people. This has reinforced the companys online advertising business, leaving little room for competitors to offer comparable services at more reasonable prices. What does this mean for Google? A separate proceeding will be held to determine what penalties Google and its parent company, Alphabet, will face. However, it is likely the tech giant will be hit with both monetary penalties and enforced mitigations aimed at reducing its dominance. Historically, fines have not been the sole method of enforcing antitrust laws as they do not demonstrate long-term impacts. This is especially true for a multi-trillion-dollar organisation such as Google. Some of the mitigations which may be imposed include the implementation of a choice screen. This would allow users to pick between other available search engines, instead of having Google as the default option. This is not the first time Google has been found guilty of breaching antitrust laws. Over the past decade it has been fined a total of 8.25 billion (A$13.6 billion) by the European Union for three separate breaches of the unions antitrust laws. Antitrust laws are enforced at domestic levels, and breaches of these laws are specific to domestic markets. This is why Google is facing these charges across two different continents. Google has continued to appeal the EU fines over the years. Walker has already confirmed that the company will appeal the US decision. What does this mean for internet users? Antitrust laws are designed to enhance competition. They exist to protect consumers by prohibiting business practices that promote unfair monopolies, suppress competition and enforce dominance or power. The dominance that Google has held over other search engines has created a concentrated market that has prevented smaller competitors from operating equitably. This is why Google can charge high advertising prices, because there is slim competition in terms of visibility. The recent US ruling, alongside the EU rulings, may be the first steps towards opening the tech market up to other competitors. In turn, this may promote more equitable competition, which would be a win for consumers. Competition fuels incentives for innovation. When there is only one option available, as often seems to be the case with search engines, this incentive is suffocated under the dominance of one monopolistic player. While antitrust laws are only enforced at domestic levels, hopefully the outcomes of the EU and US rulings will have flow-on effects that extend beyond these markets. What does this mean for the race for AI supremacy? During the trial, some concerns were raised around how Googles monopolised position as the default search engine has unfairly benefited it in the artificial intelligence (AI) race. The default agreements and terms of conditions of the Google search engine has enabled the organisation to access enormous amounts of user search data, which can be used to train AI models. The easy access to this data may act as a gateway for Google to establish a position of dominance in AI. Dismantling Google as the default search engine on platforms such as Apple and Samsung could shift Googles position in the race for AI supremacy. As such, it may also shift the future trajectory of the entire internet. Bangaldeshs president has dissolved the countrys parliament, clearing the way for new elections to replace the long-time prime minister who resigned and fled the country following weeks of demonstrations against her rule that descended into violent unrest. The streets of Dhaka appeared calmer on Tuesday, with no reports of new violence as jubilant protesters thronged the ousted leaders residence. Some posed for selfies with soldiers guarding the building where a day earlier angry protesters had looted furniture, paintings, flower pots and chickens. Protesters climb a public monument in Dhaka as they celebrate the news of Sheikh Hasinas resignation as prime minister (Rajib Dhar/AP) As the country waited for a new government to emerge, a key student leader said protesters wanted Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus to head an interim government. Mr Yunus, who is currently in Paris for the Olympics, called Sheikh Hasinas resignation the countrys second liberation day. He could not immediately be reached for comment, but student leader Nahid Islam said Mr Yunus had agreed. Bangladeshs figurehead president and its top military commander said late on Monday that an interim government would be formed soon to preside over new elections. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas 15 years in power ended with the leader and her sister boarding a helicopter for India, as thousands of protesters defied military curfew orders to march on her residence, which they later sacked along with buildings associated with her party and family. Her departure came after protests against a quota system for government jobs grew into broader challenge to her 15-year rule as scores were killed in clashes between protesters, security forces and pro-government activists. Bangladeshs Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina speaks during a press conference in Dhaka (Rajesh Kumar Singh/AP) Military chief General Waker-uz-Zamam said earlier he was taking temporary control of the country, as soldiers tried to stem unrest. The military wields significant political influence in Bangladesh, which has faced more than 20 coups or coup attempts since independence in 1971. Earlier on Tuesday, protest leader Sarjis Alam told reporters that they had asked the president to dissolve Parliament by 3pm, and threatened to renew demonstrations otherwise as they seek to repair the state. We have proposed the name of Muhammad Yunus with his consent, now if someone else comes from among the MPs, we will not allow that to happen, he said. A long-time opponent of the ousted leader, Mr Yunus was accused of corruption by her government and tried on charges he said were motivated by vengeance. He received the Nobel in 2006 for work pioneering microlending. Protesters celebrate at the Parliament House premise after news of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas resignation (Fatima Tuj Johora/AP) Mr Islam, the organiser, said protesters would propose more names for the cabinet, and suggested that it would be difficult for those in power to ignore their wishes. Amid celebrations, student Juairia Karim said it was a historic day. Today we are getting what we deserve, she said. Everyone is happy, everyone is cheerful. But the country was still counting the toll of weeks of violent unrest that produced some of the countrys worst bloodshed since the 1971 war of independence. Many fear that Ms Hasinas departure could lead to even more instability in the densely populated South Asian nation, which is already dealing with crises from high unemployment to corruption to climate change. Violence just before and after Ms Hasinas resignation left at least 109 people dead, including 14 police officers, and hundreds of others injured, according to media reports, which could not be independently confirmed. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus smiles as he arrives to appear before a labour court in January (Mahmud Hossain Opu/AP) Amid security concerns, the main airport in Dhaka, the capital, suspended operations for eight hours. In the southwestern district of Satkhira, 596 prisoners and detainees escaped from a jail after an attack on the facility Monday evening, the United News of Bangladesh agency reported, as police stations and security officials were attacked across the country. Police in Dhaka mostly left their stations and assembled in a central barracks in fear of attacks after several stations were torched or vandalised. Ms Hasina landed at a military airfield near New Delhi on Monday after leaving Dhaka and met Indias national security adviser Ajit Doval, the Indian Express newspaper reported. The report said Ms Hasina was taken to a safe house and is likely to travel to the UK. The 76-year-old was elected for a fourth consecutive term in a January vote that was boycotted by her main opponents. Thousands of opposition members were jailed before the polls, and the US and the UK denounced the result as not credible, though the government defended it. Aug 06 (Jowhar.com)-In a surprising move, Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has nominated Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate for the upcoming election. Walz, a former high school teacher and veteran of the National Guard, brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for bipartisan leadership to the ticket. Harris praised Walz for his dedication to public service and his commitment to fighting for working families. She highlighted his efforts to expand healthcare access, improve education, and address climate change in Minnesota as examples of his strong leadership qualities. Walz, who has served as Governor of Minnesota since 2019, expressed his gratitude for the nomination and his excitement to join forces with Harris in the race for the White House. He emphasized the need for unity and collaboration in the face of the numerous challenges facing the country, from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to economic inequality and racial injustice. The announcement of Walz as Harris running mate has been met with mixed reactions from both Democrats and Republicans. Some have praised the choice as a smart and strategic move that could help to unify the party and appeal to a broader range of voters. Others have criticized the selection, arguing that Walz lacks the national name recognition and political experience needed to effectively serve as Vice President. As the election season heats up and the November election draws closer, all eyes will be on Harris and Walz as they campaign together and make their case to the American people. With their combined experience, energy, and commitment to progressive values, they could prove to be a formidable team in the race for the White House. Aug 05 (Jowhar.com) The Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, resigned and fled her country, after weeks of deadly protests.Hasina, who has been the countrys president for two decades, followed a military helicopter after many people ignored a national curfew and some protesters entered the presidential palace. The resignation comes after 300 people have died during weeks of protests demanding the resignation of Sheikh Hasina.The streets of Dakar turned into celebratory demonstrations after the news of Hasinas departure. The commander of the armed forces announced that an interim government had been established and urged the protesters to stop the violence.He also promised that he will fulfill the demands of the protesters and bring justice to those behind the killings. Pictures from national television showed thousands of people entering the prime ministers official residence. It also showed crowds of protesters lining the streets in scenes of joy as news of Hasinas departure began to spread. Aug 05 (Jowhar.com) Member Mohamed Ibrahim Alimu transferred medical equipment to the management of Buloburte district hospital in Hiran region. The ceremony of handing over these medical supplies to the administration of the Buoloburte district hospital was attended by cultural elders, intellectuals, academics and different sections of the Buoloburte district community. The various sections of the community of Buoloburte district who spoke there thanked the MP for this very important tool for the people of Buoloburte district that he delivered at a time when it was needed. MP Mohamed Ibrahim Moalimu, one of the federal MPs elected from Hirshabelle, who spoke at the event where the device was handed over, asked the administration and the people of Buloburte district to keep this device and it is for the service of all Somali people, whether they live in Buloburte district or other regions. of the country. The last time I came to this city, I saw that the district hospital was destroyed, and the people did not have medical services. It made me work hard to find this equipment, and many people in the Finnish community helped to bring it. This Buloburte device, said MP Mohamed Ibrahim Maalimu. MP Maalimu said that in Buoloburte district there is a need for many social services such as ambulances and fire trucks. Buuloburte district, one of the largest districts in Hiran region, has been besieged by al-Shabaab for a long time. Aug 06 (Jowhar.com) The National Intelligence and Security Forces have arrested four people with explosives in Mogadishu who are accused of belonging to Al Shabaab. The arrested men were said to be carrying mines intended to carry out explosions as stated in a statement from NISA. The National Security Agency (NISA) forces have carried out an operation in Mogadishu and arrested four conspirators from the Khawarij, who were carrying landmines that they planned to harm the Somali people, the statement said. Security in Mogadishu has been tightened since a direct attack and a foiled explosion were carried out on Lido beach where more than 30 people, mostly young people, were killed and more were injured. Following the recent spike in attacks by Al Shabaab, the Somali government has vowed to increase security measures to protect its citizens. The arrests of these individuals with explosives is seen as a major success in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the country. The government is urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The Prime Minister has also called for unity and cooperation among all citizens in order to combat the threat of terrorism and ensure the safety and security of the nation. The international community has expressed support for Somalia in its efforts to combat terrorism and has offered assistance in strengthening its security forces. The fight against Al Shabaab remains a top priority for the government as it works towards achieving peace and stability in the country. Aug 06 (Jowhar.com) In a planned operation carried out by the security forces in Galgaduud region, Horjooge Idris Mohamed Sheikh, who was now the leader of the extortion fund collectors called Saka in Galgaduud region, was arrested. Leader Idris also served as the leader of the Khawarij in the Middle Shabelle region, before the Khawarij were liberated from the entire region. This bloodthirsty leader also operated in the Bay and Bakool regions, and was one of the closest individuals to the Khawarij leader Ahmed Diriye. The security agencies of the government are determined to bring to justice the Khawarij criminals who are engaged in harming the Somali people. Leader Idris was known for his brutal tactics and ruthless behavior, causing fear and suffering among the local population. His arrest was seen as a major victory for the security forces in their ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and extremism in the region. With the capture of Leader Idris, the security forces hoped to gather valuable intelligence that would lead to the dismantling of the entire extortion network operated by the Khawarij in the region. The government was committed to restoring peace and stability in Galgaduud and other regions affected by the activities of these violent extremists. The people of Somalia were relieved to hear of Leader Idris arrest, knowing that justice was finally being served. It was a significant step towards eradicating the threat posed by the Khawarij and bringing an end to the cycle of violence and fear that had plagued the region for far too long. August 6 and 9: A Proclamation Greenfield, Mass. (Special to Informed Comment; Feature) As I write, five of nine governments with arsenals of nuclear weapons capable of destroying life on our planet many times over are engaged in war: the United States (in multiple wars and stoking one with China), Israel, Russia, and NATO members Britain and France in a proxy war with Russia. For decades now, respected nuclear weapons scientists and policymakers have estimated each January how close we are as a world to civilization-ending disaster, by setting the hands of the Doomsday Clock, where Midnight represents apocalyptic nuclear war. In January 2024, the Doomsday clock was set at 90 seconds to Midnight, the closest it has ever been since its inception in 1947. Throughout 2023 nuclear nations spent 13% more than in 2022 on necrophilic nuclear weapons with the US accounting for 80% of this increaseall while we rush headlong into climate disaster, so palpable this summer. How much closer to Midnight will we be in January 2025? As a counterbalance to this insanity, we have the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons adopted in 2017 by 122 sensible non-nuclear weapon States. The Treaty entered into force in 2021. By January 2024, 93 countries had signed the Treaty and 70 countries ratified it with more on the way. This UN Treaty is our best insurance as a world against any nuclear weapons use and has as its goal their complete elimination. Hiroshima, by Juan Cole, Digital, Dream / Dreamworld v. 3 / IbisPaint, 2024 But, what can we do as citizens living in a country whose government first developed nuclear weapons; used them on Japanese civilians on August 6 and 9, 1945; and led the arms race ever since? The U.S. spent nearly $98,000 per minute in 2023 on modernizing nuclear weapons and now stands on the brink of using them again given its war-prone posture in the world. Back from the Brink, a national nuclear weapons abolition organization believes that we all deserve a say on policies that pose a direct threat to our lives, our families, our communities, our planet, humanitys future. A major priority of Back from the Brink is to engage and cultivate leadership in local cities, towns and states to influence federal legislation and policy ultimately to abolish nuclear weapons. One creative suggestion they urge is to ask our local and state politicians to issue a Proclamation on the anniversaries of Hiroshima and Nagasaki (August 6 and 9), signaling that abolishing nuclear weapons and preventing nuclear war is every communitys business. In that spirit, here is the Resolution we have asked Greenfield, MA Mayor Ginny Desorgher to send to the citys state and federal elected officials on behalf of her citizens. Whereas, a world in which nuclear weapons exist and threaten our community and humanitys very existence is a deeply unjust world; Whereas, seventy-nine years ago, on August 6th and August 9, hundreds of thousands of human beings died many instantly or suffered severe health consequences in the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan when the United States dropped atomic bombs; Whereas, many people and communities within the United States have been and continue to be grievously harmed and suffer health consequences from the development, production and testing of nuclear weapons and uranium mining; Whereas, nine nations collectively have approximately 12,100 nuclear weapons in their arsenals, most of which are far more destructive than those used against the people of Japan. The detonation of even a small number of these weapons could affect everyone on the planet, causing catastrophic human and environmental consequences that would threaten human civilization itself; Whereas, current Cold War-era nuclear policies and spending are contributing to a costly new global arms race, do not make any nuclear-armed country safer and increase the risk of nuclear war; Whereas, in 2023 U.S. taxpayers in Greenfield spent $4,033,796.19 cents on nuclear weaponsfunds which would be better spent addressing urgent community needs for housing, education, infrastructure, jobs, health care, poverty alleviation, climate resilience and environmental protection; Whereas, the people of Greenfield join with the people of Hiroshima in their plea that all cities and citizens of the world unite together in expanding the circle of solidarity transcending national boundaries, partisan politics, and religious creeds to strengthen the bond of human friendship and solidarity. NOW, THEREFORE, I THE MAYOR OF GREENFIELD, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM AUGUST 6 AND AUGUST 9 TO BE: LIFTING COMMUNITY VOICES FOR A WORLD FREE OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS DAY Consider asking your Mayor or Town Council to issue a similar proclamation, if not for this year, then for 2025. But start now. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 /Hannan Metals Limited's ("Hannan" or the "Company") (TSXV:HAN)(OTC PINK:HANNF) is pleased to announce that a significant copper-gold porphyry discovery continues to expand at the Previsto Central prospect within the 100%-owned Valiente Project in Peru (Figures 1 and 2). Highlights: Expanding copper-gold porphyry footprint over 5 km x 3 km : Top of ridge soil sampling and mapping and prospecting in creeks has expanded the footprint of the porphyry mineralized system at Previsto Central over 5 km x 3 km. Extensive leached copper mineralization discovered in outcrop : Impressive copper-rich outcrops have been identified in creeks (Figures 3-8). Two channels, separated by 700 m are reported here: CH14455: 126 m @ 0.22% Cu CH15391: 192 m @ 0.16% Cu Large team mobilized: A team of 30 including geologists, technicians and local support are working on the project undertaking soil sampling and mapping. Large scale geophysical survey soon to commence : Project-scale induced polarization (IP) geophysics soon to commence with the aim of mapping the vast porphyry target to depth. LiDAR contract signed: A large-scale LiDAR survey over 7 km by 10 km will be flown over the coming month to accelerate exploration by identifying outcrops and mapping the geology of the mineralized system. Michael Hudson, CEO, states: "Field work during the optimal dry season with a large 30-person team continues to expand the Previsto Central porphyry system with top of ridge soil sampling. mapping and prospecting in creeks over 5 km x 3 km. We are now starting to understand this mineralized system better, with gold-rich areas in the upper western areas (800 m higher vertical relief) transitioning to more copper-rich areas lower in the system to the east. We look forward to further results, including the first geophysics on the project, as the large team continues to de-risk the project and move it forward to drill permitting as soon as possible." Top of ridge soil sampling, mapping and prospecting in creeks has expanded the footprint of the porphyry mineralized system at Previsto Central over 5 km x 3 km (Figures 3-8). The K-feldspar porphyry with meta-crystic K-feldspar porphyry dykes show moderate to pervasive phyllic alteration assemblage with some zones of argillic intermediate alteration. Impressively field teams have now started to discover extensive zones of outcropping copper mineralization within creeks traversed for the first time, over 700 m of strike. Copper mineralization is hosted within strongly leached phyllic altered, fractured K-felspar porphyry with disseminated pyrite-chalcopyrite, malachite, chrysocolla, neotocite, goethite and jarosite. Two channel samples are reported here: CH14455: 126 m @ 0.22% Cu, including: 2.5 m @ 0.10 g/t Au and 0.41 % Cu from 50m 3 m @ 0.11 g/t Au and 0.15 % Cu form 82m CH15391: 192 m @ 0.16% Cu Previsto Central is defined by a large 10 km by 5 km airborne magnetic and radiometric anomaly. Alteration associated with porphyry intrusions is often magnetic (from magnetite) and potassic (from sericite/biotite/K-feldspar). At Previsto anomalous soil anomalies are associated with areas of elevated magnetics and potassium indicating minerals associated with porphyry alteration. The footprint dimensions of the alteration system at Previsto are considered significant on a global scale for a porphyry system. This area remains the main focus of the Company's field programs during the dry season. This Previsto Central prospect is located 2.5 km west of the Previsto East (reported on April 10, 2024). The style of mineralization observed at both prospects show strong similarities, where alteration assemblages and mineralization styles include hydrothermal breccias, intense phyllic alteration and relics of potassic alteration, roscoelite veining/dissemination and replacement of feldspars, observed sulfide minerals include chalcopyrite, molybdenite, pyrite. Veining is rare and generally only thin quartz and quartz-pyrite-iron oxide veinlets have been observed in boulders. The porphyries intrude Cretaceous sandstones and limestone sediments. Litho-geochemistry at Previsto shows a clear alkaline composition of the porphyry instructive host. The porphyries intrude sediments (sandstone, limestone, and shale) which show contact metasomatism around dykes and intrusive stocks. Hannan is planning a 15-line km pole-dipole induced polarization geophysical survey to demonstrate the scale and extent of the mineral system at Previsto in three dimensions. The Company also plans a regional LiDAR survey across the Previsto Central and Previsto East areas to help define outcropping areas and plan logistics. About the Valiente project The 100% owned Valiente project is in central eastern Peru, east of the city of Tingo Maria (Figures 1 and 2). The area is characterized by steep topography on the eastern flank of the Central Cordillera with elevations between 800 m and 2,000 m above sea level (a.s.l.). The project was discovered in 2021 during an extensive greenfields prospecting program initiated by Hannan for back-arc porphyry copper-gold systems. The Company has been actively prospecting on the project since 2021 and has successfully gained social permits progressively in all areas of interest. During 2021 Hannan staked and still holds 1,002 km2 of 100% owned mining concessions at Valiente covering unexplored terrain for potential mineralized porphyry targets in central eastern Peru. Early surface prospecting discovered two outcropping copper-gold porphyry targets and one epithermal target at Belen (see Press Release Feb 16, 2023) that is now being drill permitted (Figures 1 and 2). Porphyry discoveries quickly followed at Serrano Norte, Serrano and Pucacunga. The focus more recently has been on Previsto. At Previsto and Belen, a district-scale porphyry cluster within an area of 25 km by 10 km, with eight porphyry and/or epithermal targets now identified in more detail with up to 10 earlier stage targets awaiting further work. In January 2024 Hannan submitted it first drilling application (DIA) covering two porphyry targets and one epithermal target at the Belen zone (here for news release). The company is now expanding the footprint by prospecting new areas to build a pipeline of projects that will be permitted, and drill tested over the coming five years. Technical Background All samples were collected by Hannan geologists. Samples were transported to ALS in Lima via third party services using trackable parcels and by company staff. At the laboratory, rock samples were prepared and analyzed by standard methods. The sample preparation involved crushing 70% to less than 2 mm, riffle split off 250g, pulverize split to better than 85% passing 75 microns. Samples were analyzed by method ME-MS61, a four-acid digest preformed on 0.25g of the sample to quantitatively dissolve most geological materials. Analysis is via ICP-MS. Channel samples are considered representative of the in-situ mineralization samples and sample widths quoted approximate the true width of mineralization, while grab samples are selective by nature and are unlikely to represent average grades on the property. Gold was analyzed in rock and soils by ALS in Lima using a standard sample preparation and 30g fire assay sample charge. Soil samples were analyzed by a portable XRF (VANTA-VMR) using an inhouse protocol which includes routing use of CRM and field duplicates as well as 10% check samples analyzed by ALS Lima. About Hannan Metals Limited (TSXV:HAN) (OTCPK: HANNF) Hannan Metals Limited is a natural resources and exploration company developing sustainable resources of metal needed to meet the transition to a low carbon economy. Over the last decade, the team behind Hannan has forged a long and successful record of discovering, financing, and advancing mineral projects in Europe and Peru. Hannan is a top ten in-country explorer by area in Peru. Mr. Michael Hudson FAusIMM, Hannan's Chairman and CEO, a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical disclosure contained in this news release. On behalf of the Board, "Michael Hudson" Michael Hudson, Chairman & CEO Further Information www.hannanmetals.com 1305 - 1090 West Georgia St., Vancouver, BC, V6E 3V7 Mariana Bermudez, Corporate Secretary, +1 (604) 685 9316, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Forward Looking Statements Certain disclosure contained in this news release may constitute forward-looking information or forward-looking statements, within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. These statements may relate to this news release and other matters identified in the Company's public filings. In making the forward-looking statements the Company has applied certain factors and assumptions that are based on the Company's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: the political environment in which the Company operates continuing to support the development and operation of mining projects; the threat associated with outbreaks of viruses and infectious diseases; risks related to negative publicity with respect to the Company or the mining industry in general; planned work programs; permitting; and community relations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news. Toronto, Ontario TheNewswire - August 6, 2024 Tantalex Lithium Resources Corp. (CSE: TTX FSE: DW8 OTCQB: TTLXF) (Tantalex or the Corporation) is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement consisting of approximately 118,586,450 common shares (the Common Shares) at a price of $0.035 per Common Share for gross proceeds of up to USD$3,000,000 (the Private Placement). The number of Common Shares to be issued is subject to change depending on the foreign exchange rate of the US currency to Canadian currency to be determined on the closing date. There will be no finders fees paid on the Private Placement. Certain insiders of the Corporation, including Mr. Simon Collins, director, and Afrimet Resources Ag may acquire Common Shares in the Private Placement. Any participation by insiders in the Private Placement would constitute a related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101). However, the Corporation expects such participation would be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 as the fair market value of the Common Shares subscribed for by the insiders, nor the consideration for the Common Shares paid by such insiders, would exceed 25% of the Corporations market capitalization. The proceeds of the Private Placement will be used for project expenditures related to the optimization of the TiTan tin and tantalum plant and for general working capital. All securities issued pursuant to the Private Placement will be subject to a four-month-and-one day statutory hold period in accordance with applicable securities law. The Common Shares being referred to in this news release have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States (U.S.) Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the U.S. or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Corporate Update revocation of FFCTO The Corporation is also pleased to announce today that the failure to file cease trade order (the FFCTO) issued by the Ontario Securities Commission on July 8, 2024 was revoked effective August 1, 2024 and its common shares resumed trading on August 2, 2024. The FFCTO was issued following the Corporations delay in filing its audited consolidated annual financial statements, managements discussion and analysis and related CEO and CFO certifications for the year ended February 29, 2024 and accompanying management discussion and analysis prior to the applicable deadline, which have since been filed. About Tantalex Lithium Resources Corporation Tantalex Lithium is an exploration and development stage mining company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, development and distribution of lithium, tin, tantalum and other high-tech mineral properties in Africa. It is currently focused on operating its TiTan tin and tantalum concentrate plant and developing its lithium assets in the prolific Manono area in the Democratic Republic of Congo; The Manono Lithium Tailings Project and the Pegmatite Corridor Exploration Program. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements This presentation includes certain statements that may be deemed forward looking statements. All statements in this document, other than statements of historical facts, which address future production, reserve potential, exploration activities and events or developments that the Company expects, are forward looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation: (i) estimates of future lithium, tin and tantalum prices, supply, demand and/or production; (ii) estimates of future cash costs and revenues; (iii) estimates of future capital expenditures; (iv) estimates regarding timing of future development, construction, production or closure activities; (v) statements regarding future exploration results; (vi) statements regarding cost structure, project economics, or competitive position, (vii) statements comparing the Companys properties to other mines, projects or metals; and (viii) the completion of the Private Placement. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward- looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance, that the Company expressly disclaims any responsibility for revising or expanding the forward- looking statements to reflect actual results or developments, and that actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected, in the forward-looking statements, except as required by law. For more information, please contact: Eric Allard President & CEO Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Website: www.tantalexlithium.com Tel: 1-581-996-3007 VANCOUVER, BC and HONG KONG / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Reyna Silver Corp. (TSXV:RSLV) (OTCQX:RSNVF) (FRA:4ZC) ("Reyna Silver") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an Option Agreement (the "Agreement") with Aulode LLC. ("Aulode") on the Union Hill Project (the "Project") located in Eureka County, Nevada. Drilling commences imminently targeting the framework of this extensive system including identifying the level of oxidation, major potentially mineralized structures and critical ore-system exploration vectors. The Union patented claim group has 10 newly staked claims (81 hectares) at the Company's 70% optioned Gryphon Summit project in Eureka/Elko Co, Nevada. Adding this to the recently announced Mineral Hill claim group acquisition (See Press Release of August 1, 2024) completes Reyna Silver's control of the 12,058.98 hectares of Gold, Silver and Critical Metals potential identified to date at Gryphon. Union Patented Claims encompass this historical high-grade Silver,-Lead-Zinc producing district. Mineralization was mined to the base of oxidation leaving the underlying sulfides untouched. Adding 233 unpatented claims (1900 hectares) means the company now controls all of the identified gold, silver and critical metals potential at Gryphon. Drilling will commence imminently- targeting the major potentially mineralized structures that define the framework of this extensive system, identifying the depth of oxidation, and critical ore-system exploration vectors. "The Union patented claims were the last puzzle piece Reyna Silver needed to fully control Gryphon, providing the opportunity to take a serious look at Gryphon from new angles," said Jorge Ramiro Monroy, Reyna Silver President and CEO. "We can't wait to unleash our technical team's experience discovering major CRDs in a comprehensive attack on the entire district's combined Gold, Silver, plus Critical Metals endowment " CRD systems are continuous, zoned, polymetallic deposits and following known CRD mineralization back towards its interpreted porphyry source is a key exploration element. Historic production in the Gryphon region occurred prior to the advent of contemporary high-recovery selective flotation metallurgy and focused almost exclusively on oxidized mineralization. This means unoxidized sulfide mineralization beneath the historical production zones remains to be followed through the balance of the CRD-Skarn-Porphyry continuum model Reyna Silver follows. Reyna Silver plans to immediately use the geometry and geochemistry of the historic Union and Mineral Hill CRD workings to vector towards underlying sulfide Ag-Pb-Zn mineralization. Notably, CRDs in in this part of Nevada, like the Eureka district 70km South of Gryphon and the Cortez Camp 50km to the west, are also known for their significant gold credits, generally believed to stem from a later overprint of Carlin-type gold mineralization (See Press Release of August 1, 2024). Both mineralization types are documented at Gryphon and the two mineralizing events exploited the same structural plumbing, so understanding the controls on CRD mineralization should enhance understanding the geometry of the entire system, including where concentrated Carlin-type gold may occur. Figure 1. Updated claim map of the 12,058.98 ha project with new boundaries in bold blue and previous boundaries in narrow blue. Patented Claims are delineated in reds. Union is shown in bold red and Mineral Hill on the east side in narrow red (See Press Release of August 1, 2024). Selective sampling results for Silver are shown in blue with Lead in grey and Zinc in green. The Agreement: The Agreement gives Reyna Silver the right (the "FIrst Option") to earn a 100% ownership interest in the mineral rights and rights to prospect and explore the Project; and the further right (the "Second Option") to earn a 100% ownership interest in all remaining rights (including without limitation surface rights) in in the Project and to become the fee title owner of the Project. The First Option is subject to Reyna Silver making cash payments to Aulode in the aggregate amount of US$917,500 on or before August 2, 2030. The Second Option is subject to Reyna Silver making a production decision and making further cash payments to Aulode as follows: (a) US$500,000 within thirty (30) days after Reyna Silver receives all construction, environmental and other permits required in order to proceed with construction on the Project; and (b) US$2,000,000 no later than the date three months prior to the estimated date of commencement of construction on the Project. If Reyna has not made a production decision by August 2, 2030, it may extend the date for exercise of the Second Option by up to a further three years by making further cash payments of US$250,000 in respect of each such one-year.extension. On exercise of the Second Option by Reyna Silver, Reyna Silver will grant Aulode a 2.5% net smelter return ("NSR") royalty over the Project. Reyna Silver will have the option to repurchase 1.25% of the 2.5% NSR royalty at any time by paying Aulode US$2,500,000. If Reyna Silver has not made a production decision by August 2, 2033, then Reyna Silver will quitclaim and transfer its rights in the Project to Aulode and Aulode will grant Reyna Silver a 2.0% NSR royalty over the Project. Aulode will have the option at any time to repurchase 1.00% of such 2.0% NSR royalty by paying Reyna Silver US$1,000,000, and to repurchase the remaining 1.00% of the 2.0% NSR royalty by paying Reyna Silver a further US$1,000,000. For Further Information, Please Contact: Bethany Terracina, VP Investor Relations This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. www.reynasilver.com About Reyna Silver Corp. Reyna Silver is a growth-oriented junior exploration and development company. The Company focuses on exploring for high-grade, district-scale silver deposits in Mexico and the United States. In Nevada USA, the Company has recently entered into an option to acquire 70% of the 10,300-hectare "Gryphon Summit Project" in a 50/50 partnership with Reyna Gold Corp. (TSXV:REYG). The Gryphon Project shows features indicating uniquely superimposed/overprinted Silver-Lead-Zinc-Copper Carbonate Replacement (CRD), Carlin Gold and Critical Metals mineralization. Also in Nevada, the Company is advancing its option to acquire 100% of the "Medicine Springs Project" where the Company is exploring a potentially significant Silver-Lead-Zinc-Copper CRD-skarn-Porphyry system. The Company's Mexican assets are 100% owned and include the "Guigui Project" and "Batopilas Project", both located in Chihuahua State. The Guigui Project covers the interpreted source area for the Santa Eulalia Carbonate Replacement Deposit District and Batopilas covers most of Mexico's historically highest-grade silver system. Forward Looking Information This release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements relating to the Offering and the use of proceeds therefrom. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. All forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. The forward-looking statements contained herein are also subject generally to assumptions and risks and uncertainties that are described from time to time in the Company's public securities filings with the Canadian securities commissions. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Joshua Gold Resources conducts exploration program at its historical Tecumseh property, with 34 rock and soil samples currently undergoing lab analysis. Results expected to help shape future exploration and potential development strategies at the company's long-held property. Woodstock, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - Joshua Gold Resources Inc (OTC Pink: JSHG) is pleased to announce that its geologic team has returned from a re-introductory sampling program at its Tecumseh Property in Davis Township in northern Ontario, north-east of Sudbury. 34 samples consisting of rock and soil were collected over 3 days during the July 2024 program and sent for laboratory analysis. JSHG is eagerly awaiting these results and will share the findings when they become available. Along with the compilation of historic exploration records, the pending sample results will help guide the company's exploration strategy at the Tecumseh property. The analysis of the most recent samples could pave the way for exciting new opportunities for JSHG and will help to provide a foundation for future trenching and drilling programs at the site. The roughly 217 acre, four-cell Tecumseh site is a long-held property within the JSHG portfolio. It is located approximately 26 miles east-northeast of Sudbury, Ontario (or about 51 miles by easily accessible road). The site has attracted the interest of numerous operators since the 1920s, while its mineral potential remains overwhelmingly unrealized (in part due to the limitations of the exploration methods used at the time). Following its most recent sampling program, JSHG is enthusiastic about the opportunity to leverage the cutting-edge analytical techniques available and use modern exploration methods to unlock the full potential of this historically promising site. Historic Highlights: Compilation of all previously reported surface quartz vein grab samples at the property from 2011 to 2020 averaged 14.1 g/t Au (uncut, n = 52, g/t = grams per tonne) or 0.41 oz/t Au, with 54% of samples returning greater than 1 g/t Au (0.03 oz/t), and 23% of samples greater than 10 g/t Au (0.23 oz/t), with a maximum value of 209 g/t Au (6.10 oz/t). Eight large composite grab samples (roughly 9 to 10 pounds each) collected from the trenches by local prospector R. Cyr in 1996 averaged 39.7 g/t Au (1.16 oz/t). More About the JSHG Tecumseh Property: The Tecumseh property is primarily underlain by Precambrian rocks consisting of Huronian sediments. These were intruded by Nipissing gabbro sills and dikes. The Grenville Front lies just south of the property, however, the numerous documented gold occurrences in the district (including the historical Au-Cu-Co Scadding Mine) may be genetically related to the older Yavapai Orogeny. Structurally, the site sits between two prominent northwest-trending faults: the Washagami Lake Fault and the McLaren Lake Fault. Both of these are secondary splays from the main east-west trending Ess Lake Fault. The property features an array of auriferous quartz-carbonate-hematite-mica-sulphide veins occurring over an area of approximately 800 feet by 2,300 feet. These strike northwest-southeast (120-140 degrees), and are hosted in a shallowly dipping gabbro sill. Exploratory History: Gold was first reported on the property during the 1920s to 1930s, during which time several shafts or pits were emplaced, however no historical records exist. The property appears to have been left idle until 1959 when Black Crow Mines undertook a self-potential geophysical survey and completed 4 shallow drill holes. Work resumed intermittently from 1975 to 1988 by various operators. It consisted of geological and geophysical surveys, extensive surface trenching and sampling, and thirty shallow, small-diameter diamond drill holes (BQ at maximum = 1 7/16 core diameter). During this time the currently known system of auriferous veins were delineated, principally by trenching, along seven main trends (termed then from "A" to "G"), with individual veins attaining widths of a couple of inches to as much as 8 feet (approximately). Notably, some vein trends host as many as eight parallel sub-veins. The veins host accessory sulphide from trace amounts to locally semi-massive vugs of pyrite, pyrrhotite, and chalcopyrite. Historical operators judged the veins to be overly "nuggety" for gold, which hampered surficial trench sampling. This may also help explain why many of the narrow-diameter historical drill holes did not encounter high-grade gold at shallow depths. Map 1: Location of quartz vein grab samples collected on the property since 2011 (as listed in Table 1 and Table 2) by operator. Historic Grab Sample Analysis: In preparation for the current exploration program, an initial compilation of historical data was undertaken. From assessment files and internal reports, "modern-era" surface grab samples (keeping in mind the inherent potential sampling bias of grab samples) were compiled from work by R. Cyr in 1996, Trueclaim Exploration in 2011, Vision Prospecting in 2019, and JSHG in 2020 (Map 1). The eight samples taken by Cyr (Table 1) were all over-sized (roughly 9 to 10 pounds each) to mitigate the nugget issue. These ranged from 11.6 g/t Au to 69.5 g/t Au (0.34 oz/t to 2.03 oz/t), averaging 39.7 g/t Au (1.16 oz/t). The fifty-two "normal-sized" (approximately 1 to 3 pounds) quartz vein grab samples collected from 2011 to 2020 returned an uncut average of 14.1 g/t Au (0.41 oz/t), ranging from 0.002 g/t Au to 209 g/t Au (0.00006 oz/t to 6.1 oz/t), with 77% of the samples greater than 0.1 g/t Au (0.003 oz/t), 54% of the samples greater than 1 g/t Au (0.03 oz/t), and 23% greater than 10 g/t Au (0.29 oz/t). For clarity, it should be noted that the forty-one Trueclaim samples and the six Vision samples were prepared using standard crushing and pulverizing, while the five JSHG samples were processed by the laboratory using the "screen metallic" method before assaying, also to mitigate the nugget effect. Where analyzed, these combined samples also returned up to 12 g/t silver (0.35 oz/t), 1.53% copper, and 0.038% cobalt. Future rock and core sampling work will continue to be evaluated using the screen metallic method, which was not routinely used in the past (other than by JSHG in 2020). Another focus will be on evaluating how auriferous the altered gabbro intervals between the quartz veins are, as historical work largely focused on sampling the veins. Where altered gabbros have been sampled in the past, assays of 0.1 to 0.4 g/t Au (0.003 oz/t to 0.01 oz/t) have been reported. If vein density and grade prove sufficient, consideration of a bulk open-pit mining scenario may be warranted. Matt Rees, formerly Chief Geologist at IAMGOLD Corp. is leading the geological team and comments, "The high-grade gold values observed to date are very encouraging, and certainly indicate a fertile mineralizing system. It remains to be discovered if the system is better focused on the eastern gabbro-sediment contact, which may be structural but is covered beneath an extensive beaver pond for most of its more than half-mile strike length across the property. We may also find that the system is better developed directly beneath the known vein array, hosted in the sediments that are footwall to the gabbro sill." Ben Fuschino, President and CEO of JSHG further comments: "I believe we have the right team and the right property with our Tecumseh site. Given the numerous high-grade gold veins on the property, we are very keen to see how the exploration program unfolds." Table 1 - Analytical results from over-sized (roughly 9 to 10 pounds each) surface grab samples collected by R. Cyr in 1996: TABLE 1 Sample_ID Easting Northing Au_ppm Ag_ppm Co_% Cu_% Comment E654 536233 5170016 37.715 11.3 0.008 0.81 mostly from E6 trench E1A 536252 5169907 69.464 5.8 0.038 0.13 southern E1 trench E1 536221 5169938 39.086 8 0.01 0.72 northern E1 trench E 536262 5169885 18.24 4.4 0.012 0.43 southern E trench F 536283 5169830 56.16 4.6 0.013 0.31 south-east F trench O 536158 5169914 60.412 5.2 0.011 0.19 Ore Dump M na na 25.372 4 0.006 0.18 composite from various trenches M1 536234 5169847 11.452 2.7 0.008 0.19 northern F trench Table 2 - Analytical results for surface grab samples collected by various operators from 2011-2020 (VG = visible gold reported in the sample; TC = Trueclaim Exploration, VE = Vision Exploration, JSHG = Joshua Gold Resources; SM = Screen Metallics; ppm = g/t): TABLE 2 Sample No Easting Northing Au ppm Ag ppm Co ppm Cu ppm Sampler Comment Z061738 536225 5170090 0.035 1 19 596 TC Z061739 536188 5170060 1.025 0.5 53 162 TC Z061740 536235 5170022 0.007 0.5 22 70 TC Z061741 536235 5170022 0.002 0.5 30 91 TC Z061742 536233 5170013 0.273 1 24 396 TC Z061743 536240 5170007 0.051 0.5 34 1318 TC Z061744 536238 5170010 0.361 3 22 1414 TC Z061745 536227 5170004 37.141 10 33 9873 TC VG Z061746 536225 5169977 0.017 0.5 63 191 TC Z061747 536216 5169977 2.708 0.5 20 291 TC Z061748 536216 5169977 0.975 0.5 11 146 TC Z061749 536208 5169952 0.979 0.5 28 197 TC Z061750 536216 5169977 2.041 0.5 34 783 TC Z061751 536216 5169977 0.055 0.5 2 81 TC VG Z061752 536208 5169952 22.471 12 14 732 TC Z061753 536235 5169903 16.318 4 40 3098 TC Z061754 536264 5169890 0.009 0.5 4 77 TC VG Z061755 536278 5169880 0.706 0.5 34 924 TC Z061756 536223 5169908 15.42 1 3 24 TC Z061757 536218 5169918 0.251 0.5 45 515 TC Z061758 536216 5169912 2.31 0.5 19 113 TC Z061759 536185 5169912 82.518 5 152 818 TC VG Z061760 536195 5169912 0.273 2 11 117 TC Z061761 536195 5169912 9.887 1 48 248 TC Z061762 536195 5169912 17.107 2 27 178 TC Z061763 536195 5169912 2.914 0.5 16 90 TC Z061764 536175 5169839 0.046 0.5 2 10 TC Z061765 536181 5169821 0.012 0.5 2 9 TC Z061766 536250 5169816 1.073 0.5 5 95 TC Z061767 536222 5169797 0.023 0.5 17 17 TC Z061769 536299 5169744 0.002 0.5 12 20 TC Z061770 536268 5169794 7.619 0.5 10 43 TC Z061773 536208 5169916 59.063 2 61 1697 TC Z061774 536311 5169787 0.194 1 29 892 TC Z061775 536312 5169774 0.364 0.5 42 106 TC Z061776 536327 5169801 46.35 1 26 154 TC Z061777 536323 5169824 4.299 2 65 3128 TC Z061778 536300 5169828 11.132 9 284 15255 TC VG Z061780 536272 5169844 11.114 3 62 465 TC Z061781 536030 5169564 0.072 3 133 2085 TC Z061782 536007 5169602 0.982 4 102 2965 TC Q203001 536228 5170081 0.359 na na na VE Q203003 536187 5170063 1.3 na na na VE Q203004 536242 5170001 1.78 na na na VE Q203005 536233 5169935 209 na na na VE Q203006 536216 5169949 3.48 na na na VE Q203007 536237 5169868 5.73 na na na VE 378444 536232 5169934 140 10.3 20.3 6120 JSHG SM 378445 536217 5169939 0.35 0.15 13 466 JSHG SM 378446 536213 5169911 8.27 4.5 66 4380 JSHG SM 378447 536220 5169950 2.22 0.3 59 799 JSHG SM 378448 536262 5169894 4.49 1.6 78 1450 JSHG SM Matt Rees, M.Sc., P.Geo (ON) is a professional geologist and a "Qualified Person" and is responsible for the technical information contained in this news release. Joshua Gold Resources Inc. (OTC: JSHG) is a publicly traded American gold exploration company headquartered in Canada, engaged in the exploration of highly prospective properties. Joshua Gold's focus is to pinpoint mineral opportunities in Northern Ontario, Canada, a mature and friendly jurisdiction for exploration and mining companies. Northern Ontario is home to the two- to three-billion-year-old Canadian Shield which contains a wealth of minerals from nickel, gold, and copper, to cobalt, chromium, and lithium. For more on JSHG, please go to http://www.joshuagoldresources.com/. Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved. VANCOUVER, BC TheNewswire August 6, 2024 Giant Mining Corp. (CSE: BFG | OTC: BFGFF | FWB: YW5) (Giant Mining or the Company) is pleased to announce the successful completion of Hole MHB-30 (MHB-30) to a depth of 800 feet (244 meters). MHB-30 is the first hole of the diamond core drilling program (the Core Program) planned for the Majuba Hill Porphyry Copper Deposit (Majuba Hill) in Pershing County, Nevada. Big Sky Exploration, LLC (Big Sky) of Eureka, Nevada, drilled MHB-30, and the hole has been quick-logged, sampled, and tagged on-site. A downhole survey confirmed that MHB-30 maintained the planned 230 azimuth and -70 inclination. Big Sky has commenced drilling Hole MHB-31 (MHB-31) (Figure 2). The core was transported to Woods Process Services, LLC (Woods Process) for sawing and processing before being sent to ALS Global Services (ALS Labs) in Elko, Nevada, for comprehensive laboratory analysis. Figure 1: MHB-30 Core David Greenway, CEO of Giant Mining Corp., commented: We are excited to announce the completion of Hole MHB-30, the first in our 2024 core drilling program at Majuba Hill. This achievement marks a significant milestone in our exploration efforts. The data obtained from this drilling will be crucial in improving our understanding of the deposits potential and shaping our future exploration strategies. As previously stated, this investment in drilling is essential for refining the geological model of Majuba Hill, significantly enhancing Giant Minings resource evaluation efforts. The drilling program is designed to gather comprehensive and high-quality data that will provide a more detailed understanding of the deposit's size, structure, and mineralization patterns. By gaining this critical information from the new drilling, the Company will be able to update the mineralization grade and tonnage estimates with greater precision, thereby reducing geological uncertainties and enhancing confidence in the project's potential. Figure 2: Giant Mining historic in red and planned drilling green (RC) and blue (Core) Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) Measures, Chain of Custody The Company utilizes a QA/QC program using best industry practices at the Majuba Hill Project. The samples are placed in cloth or plastic sample bags and are transported from the Giant Mining secure warehouse or directly from Woods Process to the ALS Labs Sample Prep Facility in Elko, Nevada. ALS then transports the prepared pulps to their analytical lab in North Vancouver, B.C. Drill core samples are sawn in half lengthwise and one half is placed in labeled cloth sample bags. All samples are analyzed for copper, gold, silver, and 33 other elements. Gold is determined by ALS Labs method Au-AA23 which is a fire assay with an AAS finish on a 30-gram split. Copper, silver, and the remaining 31 elements are determined by ALS Labs method ME-ICP61 which is a four-acid digestion and ICP-AES assay. Approximately 10% of the submitted samples are drill duplicates and copper-gold-porphyry commercial standard reference material pulps. The sample rejects and remaining pulps will be retrieved from ALS Labs. Qualified Person The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by E.L. Buster Hunsaker III, CPG 8137, a non-independent consulting geologist who is a Qualified Person as such term is defined under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43- 101). About Giant Mining Corp. Giant Mining Corp. is engaged in the identification, review and acquisition of latter stage copper and copper/silver/gold assets. This is in direct response to the growing worldwide demand and lack of supply for precious metals fueled by the Green New Deal in the US and most other developed nations with similar programs aimed at addressing climate change. Such programs are heavily reliant on silver, gold and especially copper to produce Electric Vehicles and other renewable power sources, as well as building infrastructure to provide clean and affordable electricity. The flagship project is the Majuba Hill copper, silver and gold District located 156 miles (251 km) outside Reno, Nevada, USA. Management has been mandated to focus on safe, mining friendly jurisdictions where government regulations are supportive of mining operations. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. On Behalf of the Board of Giant Mining Corp. David Greenway David C. Greenway President & CEO For further information, please contact: Joel Warawa VP of Corporate Communications E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. P: 1 (855) 475-0745 VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS www.giantminingcorp.com DOWNLOAD INVESTOR INFORMATION Click Here Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking" statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although Giant Mining Corp. believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of Giant Mining Corp. management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, Giant Mining Corp. undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - Elemental Altus Royalties Corp. (TSXV: ELE) (OTCQX: ELEMF) ("Elemental Altus" or the "Company") notes the announcement by Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) ("Capricorn") of a major expansion study at the Karlawinda Gold Project ("Karlawinda", or "KGP"), where Elemental Altus holds an uncapped 2.0% Net Smelter Return ("NSR") royalty. The Karlawinda royalty is a cornerstone asset for Elemental Altus, contributing US$4.6 million in revenue in 2023. Elemental Altus also announces the successful completion of the Mactung and Cantung royalty acquisition. Highlights Karlawinda is the Company's second largest royalty and contributed US$4.6 million in revenue in 2023 when the gold price averaged less than US$2,000/oz Capricorn has commenced work on a major expansion study for KGP, looking at an expansion of between 2.0 and 2.5 million tonnes per annum (" Mtpa") , an approximate 50% increase in throughput on the current 4.5 Mtpa The expansion study is targeted for completion by end of 2024 and Capricorn plans to move into permitting and execution as quickly as possible Capricorn announced a 15% increase to the Mineral Reserves to 1,428 thousand ounces (" koz ") gold, which is an increase of 27% after accounting for mining depletion as of July 2024. All KGP Mineral Reserves are categorised as Probable Reserves. Indicated Resources were increased to 1,965 koz gold. Inferred Resources include a further 287 koz of gold Updated KGP Mineral Reserves provide for a pre-expansion mine-life in excess of 13 years Elemental Altus has also completed the acquisition of the Mactung and Cantung royalties, with the 4% NSR over Mactung providing significant exposure to one of the largest, high-grade tungsten deposits in the world. Frederick Bell, CEO of Elemental Altus, commented: "The initiation of an expansion study at Karlawinda, targeting a throughput increase of approximately 50%, underscores the significant upside potential of our material royalties. Karlawinda's expansion potential has always been a principal reason for our investment, and Capricorn has the track record to implement a successful expansion study quickly. This not only reinforces our confidence in Karlawinda as a cornerstone asset but also demonstrates our team's ability to identify royalties with transformative potential. The potential expansion comes at no cost to the Company and further validates our investment strategy. Karlawinda's status as a proven high-quality, uncapped gold royalty in a Tier 1 jurisdiction exemplifies this strategy and our commitment to long-term growth. We are also pleased to successfully complete the acquisition of an uncapped 4.0% NSR royalty at the Mactung Project. This is a high-quality, high-grade tungsten project in Canada with the potential to be a future long-life operation and fits very well into our development pipeline." Karlawinda Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource Update Capricorn have announced a significant increase to the KGP Mineral Reserves from recent drilling at Bibra, the contiguous Southern Corridor deposit, and the Berwick deposit. Berwick is a satellite deposit that is part of the KGP East group of prospects. The Berwick Mineral Reserves are the first KGP reserve reported outside of the Bibra Complex. The drilling program also successfully upgraded Inferred Resources to Indicated Resources immediately down dip of the 2023 reserve pit design, underpinning a significant conversion of resources to reserves. The KGP JORC-compliant Mineral Reserves, as reported by Capricorn, have been increased to 57.7 million tonnes ("Mt") of Probable Reserves with a grade of 0.8 g/t gold containing 1,428 koz gold including Bibra, the Southern Corridor, Berwick, and stockpiles. This Mineral Reserves update supports a pre-expansion life of mine exceeding 13 years and the additional 333 koz represents a 27% increase after accounting for mining depletion (as of July 2024) of 152 koz gold. The updated Karlawinda Open Pit Reserves were estimated using a gold price of A$2,200/oz (approximately US$1,430/oz) for the pit shells. The recent drilling has also contributed to an increase of the estimated Indicated Resources to 85.0 Mt at a grade of 0.7 g/t gold containing 1,965 koz gold. Inferred Resources contain an additional 98.6 Mt with a grade of 0.7 g/t gold for 287 koz of gold. Mineral Resources for Karlawinda are reported inclusive of Mineral Reserves. The KGP Mineral Resources were estimated using a gold price of A$2,400/oz (approximately US$1,560/oz) and it is particularly encouraging to note that the 824 koz in the resources not currently included in the reserve are primarily located immediately down dip of the current Bibra pit design. Karlawinda Expansion Study Capricorn has initiated a study to consider a 2.0 to 2.5 Mtpa expansion of the current 4.5 Mtpa Karlawinda operation. Capricorn have stated their intent to progress into permitting and execution as quickly as possible on conclusion of a successful study. The scope of the expansion study includes an increase to throughput by approximately 45% to 55% from the current rate of 4.5 Mtpa to 6.5 to 7.0 Mtpa. Optimisation studies are considering blending additional ore supplied from an accelerated mining schedule with lower grade ore currently being stockpiled. The expansion study will focus on an expanded processing plant flowsheet, the plant configuration, and equipment installation logistics. Process plant and infrastructure capital costs will be estimated as part of the study. The mining schedule and fleet optimisation will be evaluated with a tailings storage facility expansion and other permitting requirements. Work has commenced on a number of these areas with a view to Capricorn completing the study by year end 2024. Frederick Bell CEO and Director TSX.V: ELE | OTCQX: ELEMF | ISIN: CA28619K1093 | CUSIP: 28619K109 About Elemental Altus Royalties Corp. Elemental Altus is an income generating precious metals royalty company with 10 producing royalties and a diversified portfolio of pre-production and discovery stage assets. The Company is focused on acquiring uncapped royalties and streams over producing, or near-producing, mines operated by established counterparties. The vision of Elemental Altus is to build a global gold royalty company, offering investors superior exposure to gold with reduced risk and a strong growth profile. Qualified Person Richard Evans, FAusIMM, is Senior Vice President Technical for Elemental Altus, and a qualified person under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure contained in this press release. Capricorn's press release and disclosure (including that referred to in this press release) includes inferred mineral resources that are too speculative geologically to have economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves and there is no certainty that the forecast production amounts will be realized. Notes 1) "KGP Ore Reserve increases to 1.43 Million Ounces - Expansion Study Underway", dated August 1, 2024, at https://capmetals.com.au/ Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements This news release contains certain "forward looking statements" and certain "forward-looking information" as defined under applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "should", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "plans" or similar terminology. Forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the date that the name change is expected to become effective, whether shareholders will be required by their broker to exchange their issued certificate for a new certificate or take any other action in connection to the name change, the Company's ability to deliver a materially increased revenue profile with a lower cost of capital, the future growth, development and focus of the Company, and the acquisition of new royalties and streams. Forward-looking statements and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of Elemental Altus to control or predict, that may cause Elemental Altus' actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein, including but not limited to: the impact of general business and economic conditions, the absence of control over the mining operations from which Elemental Altus will receive royalties, risks related to international operations, government relations and environmental regulation, the inherent risks involved in the exploration and development of mineral properties; the uncertainties involved in interpreting exploration data; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities; the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with Elemental Altus' expectations; accidents, equipment breakdowns, title matters, labour disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions in operations; fluctuating metal prices; unanticipated costs and expenses; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses, commodity price fluctuations; currency fluctuations; regulatory restrictions, including environmental regulatory restrictions; liability, competition, loss of key employees and other related risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of important factors which could cause actual results to differ from forward-looking statements, refer to the annual information form of Elemental Altus for the year ended December 31, 2023. Elemental Altus undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements and information except as required by applicable law. Such forward-looking statements and information represents management's best judgment based on information currently available. No forward-looking statement or information can be guaranteed, and actual future results may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - Zodiac Gold Inc. (TSXV: ZAU) ("Zodiac Gold" or the "Company"), a West-African gold exploration company, is pleased to announce that it has received its Liberian Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) permit for its proposed drilling program at the Alasala target, part of the Company's Todi Gold Project. Following this significant milestone, the Company has successfully mobilized a diamond drill rig and is set to commence drilling activities at Alasala in the coming days. "We are thrilled to have obtained the EPA permit and to have our drill rig ready to commence operations at Alasala," said David Kol, CEO of Zodiac Gold. "This achievement is a testament to our team's hard work and our commitment to sustainable and responsible exploration practices. We look forward to advancing our exploration efforts and contributing to the growth and prosperity of Liberia." After the successful Phase I and II drilling at the Arthington Target, the mobilization of the drill rig to the Alasala target, approximately 16 km west-northwest of Arthington, marks the beginning of the next phase of exploration for Zodiac Gold. Based on the level of artisanal gold mining, historical exploration, recent mapping, sampling, and satellite data interpretation by Zodiac Gold, the Alasala Target is considered to be highly prospective. Zodiac's historical work has reported high-grade gold mineralization, including intercepts of 19.6 meters at 6.17 g/t Au, 6.0 meters at 7.69 g/t Au, and 9.0 meters at 4.46 g/t Au. As Zodiac Gold embarks on this new chapter, the Company is optimistic about the potential discoveries at Alasala and is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility. Qualified Person Tom Dowrick, Director of Exploration at Zodiac Gold, is a Chartered Geologist of the Geological Society of London and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. He has reviewed and approved the technical and scientific information provided in this release. For further information, please visit the Zodiac Gold website at www.zodiac-gold.com or contact: Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Information This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections, and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "forecast", "expect", "potential", "project", "target", "schedule", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company's planned exploration programs and drill programs and potential significance of results are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Company's expectations include actual exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital, and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials, and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause such actions, events, or results to differ materially from those anticipated. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. TORONTO / Aug 06, 2024 / Business Wire / Sherritt International Corporation (Sherritt or the Corporation) (TSX:S) is pleased to announce the appointment of Shelley Brown to its Board of Directors effective today. Ms. Browns appointment and significant experience will provide a seamless succession following the resignation of Anna Ladd-Kruger who is reducing her board commitments in order to take up full time study at the University of British Columbia. We are delighted to have Shelley join our Board, commented Sir Richard Lapthorne, Chair of Sherritts Board of Directors. With her distinguished career, marked by considerable accomplishments and numerous accolades, Shelley will be an invaluable addition to Sherritts Board. Sir Richard Lapthorne, continued, In addition, I would like to thank Anna for her contributions to Sherritt and wish her every success in her academic endeavours. Ms. Brown brings considerable experience to Sherritts Board. As a Senior Audit Partner with Deloitte LLP she worked with a number of the firms major audit clients including multi-national mining and oil and gas companies listed in both Canada and the U.S. During her time in public practice, she served as the Director for Audit Services in Saskatchewan and also as Regional Managing Partner in Saskatchewan. Ms. Brown has over 30 years of board experience including serving on the boards of Stantec Incorporated and Inter Pipeline Limited. She previously served as the Chair of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants. In 2013, she was appointed as the first Chair of CPA Canada. Ms. Brown is the recipient of numerous awards recognizing her accomplished career including receiving Lifetime Achievement Awards from the CPA Institutes of British Columbia and Saskatchewan and in 2018, she was named as a member of the Order of Canada for her contributions to her profession and her community. About Sherritt International Sherritt is a world leader in using hydrometallurgical processes to mine and refine nickel and cobalt metals deemed critical for the energy transition. Sherritts Moa Joint Venture has a current estimated mine life of 25 years and has embarked on an expansion program focused on increasing annual mixed sulphide precipitate production by approximately 20% of contained nickel and cobalt. The Corporations Power division, through its ownership in Energas S.A., is the largest independent energy producer in Cuba with installed electrical generating capacity of 506 MW, representing approximately 10% of the national electrical generating capacity in Cuba. The Energas facilities are comprised of two combined cycle plants that produce low-cost electricity from one of the lowest carbon emitting sources of power in Cuba. Sherritts common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol S. Ambassador Thomas Graham Jr. to Step Down as Chair of the Board; Karen Lloyd, Former Director in Cameco's Uranium Marketing Team, Appointed to Chair of the Board; Shane Shircliff, Former Director in Cameco's Corporate Development and Power Generation Team, Appointed to Board Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7) Ambassador Thomas Graham Jr. and the Board of Directors (the "Board") of CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. ("CanAlaska" or the "Company") announce that effective immediately, Ambassador Graham Jr. has elected to step down as Chair of the Board of CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. and will remain on the Board of the Company designated with the title Chair Emeritus. Effective immediately, current Board member Karen Lloyd has been appointed Chair of the Board for CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. and Shane Shircliff has been appointed to the Board. Karen Lloyd Ms. Lloyd (B. Comm., M.B.A.) comes from a strong strategy, marketing and operations background across six different industries including mining, telecommunications, online payments, executive training, banking and aviation. This depth of experience comes from her employment with Telus Communications, Hongkong Bank of Canada and Cameco Corporation. Between 2009 and 2020, Ms. Lloyd managed a team of contract and inventory specialists to seamlessly fulfill global uranium sales generating annual revenue of between $1.8 and $2.4 billion for Cameco Corporation as a Director in Cameco's Marketing team. In April 2021, Ms. Lloyd joined Kreos Aviation as Chief Operating Officer where she oversees all aspects of the Kreos operations including asset management, strategic alliances, flight operations, maintenance, fuel operations, marketing and sales, and business development. Ms. Lloyd obtained her ICD.D designation through the Institute of Corporate Directors in June 2023 and has been an independent member of CanAlaska's Board since her appointment in July 2021. CanAlaska Chair, Karen Lloyd, comments; "I am honored to assume this responsibility from Ambassador Graham who has served CanAlaska and its shareholders since 2007. I am a true believer and proponent for a clean energy future. CanAlaska is at an exciting juncture and has assembled a world-class technical team well positioned to extract value from an extensive exploration portfolio in the Athabasca Basin. I worked with many of them at Cameco and am grateful for the opportunity to partner with Cory, Nathan and my fellow board members to maximize the potential of our assets on behalf of our shareholders. CanAlaska is well positioned to advance the Pike Zone discovery supported by a diverse board with industry and governance experience which compliments the strong leadership and expertise of the CanAlaska team. I appreciate the opportunity to play a stewardship role in the CanAlaska story ahead." Shane Shircliff Mr. Shircliff (B. Comm., M.B.A.), now appointed to CanAlaska's Board, has over twenty years of experience in senior management and corporate director roles for both publicly traded and private companies, and has extensive experience with various public regulatory regimes. Mr. Shircliff's breadth of expertise over his career include all aspects of negotiating and mergers, acquisitions and divestitures totaling over one billion dollars in value. Mr. Shircliff was a member of Cameco Corporation's Corporate Development and Power Generation team between 2002 and 2011 ending with the position of Director. During this time, he was a lead for growth/acquisition opportunities through early identification, assessment and valuation, due diligence, deal structure, negotiations and transition planning. Mr. Shircliff has been directly involved with all aspects of developing resource projects encompassing lithium, uranium, gold, silver, industrial minerals, diamonds as well as oil and gas in a variety of countries. Mr. Shircliff is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Clinworth Management Corp., a private company, which provides management and corporate development services to a wide range of clients. In addition to industry clients, Clinworth continues to advise First Nations and their economic development entities on strategy, negotiation and growth opportunities. Mr. Shircliff has been a member of CanAlaska's Advisory Board since July 2021. CanAlaska Board Member, Shane Shircliff, comments; "I am deeply honored to accept the board position with CanAlaska. The synergy of a remarkable team, a distinguished board, and world-class assets creates an extraordinary opportunity. Having witnessed CanAlaska's evolution into a leading organization under the guidance of its management and board, I am excited to rejoin Karen, Cory, and the team. I look forward to contributing to the company's continued success and growth as we strive to realize its full potential in the uranium sector. The importance of the uranium sector in advancing global energy solutions and supporting a sustainable future underscores the significance the work CanAlaska is undertaking." Ambassador Thomas Graham Jr. Ambassador Graham Jr. has been a strong member of CanAlaska's board for the past 18 years. Ambassador Thomas Graham, Jr. is one of the world's leading experts in nuclear non-proliferation. Amb. Graham Jr. has served under four successive U.S. Presidents as a senior U.S. diplomat involved in the negotiation of every major international arms control and non-proliferation agreement during that time. This includes the SALT, START, ABM, INF, NPT, CFE and CTBT Treaties. Amb. Graham Jr. has served with the U.S. Arms Control and Disarmament Agency and as the Special Representative of the President of the United States for Arms Control, Non-Proliferation, and Disarmament, in which role he successfully led U.S. government efforts to achieve the permanent extension of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Amb. Graham Jr. has been an Independent Director of the Company since 2007 and Chair of the Company since 2011. He was appointed as a member of the International Advisory Board for the nuclear program of the United Arab Emirates in December 2009 and was Executive Chairman of Lightbridge Corporation, formerly Thorium Power, Ltd. (2006 - 2024) and is currently serving as Chairman of the Board of Mexco Energy Corporation (July 1997 - present). CanAlaska CEO, Cory Belyk, comments; "I take this opportunity to thank Amb. Graham Jr. for his leadership as Chair of the Company all these years. It has been a pleasure working with Amb. Graham Jr. since I took over the CEO role and I look forward to our continued interaction on the Board. In addition, it is with great pleasure that I welcome Ms. Lloyd to Chair of the Company. Among many qualities, Karen brings tremendous knowledge from her extensive experience in uranium marketing at one of the world's most important full-cycle nuclear companies, Cameco Corporation, and I am very pleased to be teaming up with Karen again. As with Karen, it is with great pleasure I welcome Mr. Shircliff to the Board of the Company. I have known Shane for many years and it has been a true pleasure working with him on the Advisory Board of the Company since 2021. I have great respect for his guidance and expertise as the Company moves through an unprecedented transformational period. I look forward to working with Karen and Shane to move CanAlaska's ultra high-grade Pike Zone discovery story forward in an ever-strengthening uranium market built on solid fundamentals that I have never observed in my 30 years in the nuclear field." About CanAlaska Uranium CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7) holds interests in approximately 500,000 hectares (1,235,000 acres) in Canada's Athabasca Basin. CanAlaska's strategic holdings have attracted major international mining companies. CanAlaska is currently working with Cameco on the West McArthur JV project and Denison on the Moon Lake South JV project in the Eastern Athabasca Basin. CanAlaska is a project generator positioned for discovery success in the world's richest uranium district. The Company also holds properties prospective for nickel, copper, gold and diamonds. For further information visit www.canalaska.com. The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is Nathan Bridge, MSc., P. Geo., Vice-President Exploration for CanAlaska Uranium Ltd., who has reviewed and approved its contents. On behalf of the Board of Directors "Cory Belyk" Cory Belyk, P.Geo., FGC CEO, President and Director CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking information All statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. In addition, these statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will prove inaccurate, certain of which are beyond the Company's control. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend to revise or update these forward-looking statements after the date hereof or revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Asante Gold Corporation (CSE:ASE | GSE:ASG) (Asante or the Company) is pleased to announce a progress update related to the planned sulphide treatment plant and rerouting of the Bibiani-Goaso Highway at the Bibiani Gold Mine (Bibiani). All dollar figures are in United States dollars unless otherwise indicated. Sulphide Plant Progress Update Installation of the sulphide plant is key to the Companys plans to grow gold production at Bibiani to more than 250,000 ounces per year. Cumulative production of 1.2 million ounces of gold is anticipated over the next five years at lower all-in sustaining costs (AISC), as detailed in the 2024 Bibiani Technical Report (see May 1, 2024 press release). The plant is planned for completion in the first quarter of 2025, at a total capital cost of approximately $30 million. Once in operation, gold recovery from sulphide ore processed at Bibiani is expected to increase from 70% to approximately 92%, resulting in increased gold production and lower AISC. On this basis, the estimated payback on the sulphide plant is expected to be just four months. The sulphide plant is a unit operation that will be integrated with the existing process plant. It will include rougher flotation to produce a sulphide concentrate that is 10% of total process plant feed. This concentrate will be thickened and reground to 25 microns in order to liberate gold that occurs at 35 microns or more. Following this, the material will be treated with high-intensity leach, after which the tailings will be returned to the main carbon-in-leach plant. Installation of the sulphide plant continues to advance on schedule and within budget, with civil works now 55% complete. Long-lead time equipment was ordered in 2022, including the flotation equipment, thickener, grinding mill and the associated structural steel for the regrind section. Shipment of these items will start in mid-August 2024, with delivery to the Bibiani site starting in September 2024. In addition, other relevant equipment including pumps, instrumentation, switchgear, Aachen reactor, and leach tank agitators are being ordered at this time. All other structural steel and platework for the project will be fabricated in Ghana. As far as energy needs are concerned, the additional connected power load is approximately 3.5 megawatts, with an operating load of 2.4 megawatts. Detailed engineering is being progressed by Mining Process and Project Engineering (MPPE), a Ghanaian engineering company. The Project Execution Plan has been developed and issued by Jet-Rom, the Ghanaian project management company, which estimates six months for completion. When the sulphide plant is completed, Asante expects to be producing approximately 20,000 ounces per month at Bibiani, which is in line with the Companys long-term planning for the mine. Asante looks forward to the completion of the sulphide plant as it works to improve and optimize its operating mines. Rerouting of the Bibiani-Goaso Highway Traffic was redirected onto the new road constructed to maintain access to Bibiani-Goaso Highway on June 3, 2024. This allowed closure of the portion of the road impacted by the mines expansion plans. As previously announced (see press release of June 13, 2024), rerouting the highway allows the Company to access 170,000 ounces of contained gold from the main pit in the next 12 months. This ore was previously inaccessible. The Company completed its first pass of grade control drilling on June 10, 2024 and started to deliver oxide ore to the process plant on June 14, 2024. To date this oxide ore has yielded gold recovery of approximately 85% through the process plant. In addition to improved gold recovery in the short-term, mining south at the main pit of Bibiani defers full processing of sulphide ore until the sulphide plant is completed. This will allow Asante to recover approximately 92% of the gold in the sulphide ore, compared to the current recovery rate of approximately 70%. Figure 1 New road alongside Bibiani Pit Figure 2 Mining of newly accessible oxide ore in the Bibiani Pit Financial Initiatives Asante has engaged Endeavour Financial to conduct a comprehensive and non-dilutive financing initiative, to strengthen the Companys balance sheet and prepare it for further advancement. At this stage, the initiative is well advanced and the Company expects to report substantive news in the near term. Qualified Person Statement The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by David Anthony, P.Eng., Mining and Mineral Processing, President and CEO of Asante, who is a qualified person under NI 43-101. Non-IFRS Measures This news release includes certain terms or performance measures commonly used in the mining industry that are not defined under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), including all-in sustaining costs (or AISC). Non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore they may not be comparable to similar measures employed by other companies. The data presented is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS and should be read in conjunction with Asantes consolidated financial statements. Readers should refer to Asantes Management Discussion and Analysis under the heading Non-IFRS Measures for a more detailed discussion of how Asante calculates certain of such measures and a reconciliation of certain measures to IFRS terms. About Asante Gold Corporation Asante is a gold exploration, development and operating company with a high-quality portfolio of projects and mines in Ghana. Asante is currently operating the Bibiani and Chirano Gold Mines and continues with detailed technical studies at its Kubi Gold Project. All mines and exploration projects are located on the prolific Bibiani and Ashanti Gold Belts. Asante has an experienced and skilled team of mine finders, builders and operators, with extensive experience in Ghana. The Company is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange and the Ghana Stock Exchange. Asante is also exploring its Keyhole, Fahiakoba and Betenase projects for new discoveries, all adjoining or along strike of major gold mines near the centre of Ghanas Golden Triangle. Additional information is available on the Companys website at www.asantegold.com. About the Bibiani Gold Mine Bibiani is an operating open pit gold mine situated in the Western North Region of Ghana, with previous gold production of more than 4.5 million ounces. It is fully permitted with available mining and processing infrastructure on-site consisting of a newly refurbished 3 million tonne per annum process plant and existing mining infrastructure. Asante commenced mining at Bibiani in late February 2022 with the first gold pour announced on July 7, 2022. Commercial production was announced November 10, 2022. For additional information relating to the mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates for the Bibiani Gold Mine, please refer to the 2024 Bibiani Technical Report filed on the Companys SEDAR+ profile (www.sedarplus.ca) on April 30, 2024. For further information please contact: Dave Anthony, President & CEO Frederick Attakumah, Executive Vice President and Country Director This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. +1 604 661 9400 or +233 303 972 147 Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this news release constitute forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, production and all-in sustaining costs forecasts for the Bibiani Gold Mine, exploration results and potential, development programs, expansion and mine life extension opportunities, and completion of plant upgrades. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, the Companys inability to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for its planned activities, the Companys inability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies, and the price of gold. The reader is referred to the Companys public disclosure record which is available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca). Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except as required by securities laws and the policies of the securities exchanges on which the Company is listed, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. LEI Number: 529900F9PV1G9S5YD446. Neither IIROC nor any stock exchange or other securities regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - A man suspected to be behind the theft of hired vehicles has been arrested and taken to the Central Police Station. The suspect, identified as Dan alias Okwongo, hired a Toyota Prado and stole the vehicles parts. He was arrested along Moi Avenue on Monday night after police trailed him and found him relaxing at a shoe shine stall. According to reports, the suspect is believed to be part of a gang that hires vehicles and sneaks them into Tanzania, where the parts are removed and sold in the black market. The smartly dressed suspect appeared composed during his arrest and even dared the victim to take photos and videos. He reportedly bragged that Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwah would bail him out. Watch the video. Hi Nyakundi. Please share widely. This is a thief who hired a Toyota Prado to steal parts to sell. We have arrested him on Moi Avenue tonight. He is currently at the Central Police Station. He has hired many cars which eventually disappear to Tanzania. They have stolen many cars. pic.twitter.com/k7ghhwhg5D Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) August 6, 2024 The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - Activist Boniface Mwangi's wife, Njeri, has spoken for the first time after her husband posted a cryptic message on Facebook on Saturday, attracting mixed reactions. In a statement, Njeri expressed her gratitude for the love her family has received from Kenyans since then. She apologized for not picking up calls and responding to text messages from concerned Kenyans. Friends and comrades, my apologies for the unanswered calls and un-responded texts. "Please forgive and bear with me. We feel your utmost pure outpouring of love and support. We appreciate all of it. Thank you, Njeri posted on X. She, however, did not give any update on the well-being of her husband. Boniface Mwangi left many Kenyans guessing on Saturday with his cryptic and suicidal message, which left netizens worried about his state. "Someone gets to a stage in life and decides this is it for them. Theyre ready for the next world. "The pain, troubles, and expectations of others in this world are too much. "They exit the stage, celebrate their life. End of story," Mwangi posted on Facebook. Journalist and social activist Hanifa Farsafi later claimed that she could not reach him and asserted that she had spoken to him days before the post. Mwangi had been vocal during the recent anti-government protests, which led to his arrest before he was later freed on cash bail. The Kenyan DAILY POST AI-enhanced cybersecurity gathers pace 08:31, August 06, 2024 By Ma Si ( China Daily Products related to cybersecurity are on display during an expo in Shanghai. CHINA DAILY The increasing integration of artificial intelligence into various sectors has significantly influenced the domain of cybersecurity, and as digital threats become more sophisticated, the traditional approaches to cybersecurity are proving inadequate, thereby necessitating the adoption of AI-enhanced solutions, officials and experts said. The comments came after the cybersecurity industry in China saw substantial growth, with its market size reaching about 220 billion yuan ($30.8 billion) in 2023 and the number of listed companies in the sector increasing to 28, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Sui Jing, director of the cybersecurity administration of the MIIT, said the integration of AI with security measures will spur the development of new technologies, products and models within the cybersecurity space. This synergy is expected to lead to the intensive development of high-end and intelligent security products, ultimately enhancing the capability to safeguard against cyber threats, Sui said. The ministry, she said, will increase efforts to encourage companies to develop crucial technologies for AI-enhanced security, especially in areas such as industrial internet and autonomous driving. Wu Hequan, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts between AI providers and industries to develop industry-specific AI large language models or LLMs. LLMs are AI models fed with huge amounts of text data for use in a variety of tasks, ranging from natural language processing to machine translation. It is the key technology underpinning OpenAI's ChatGPT, which has taken the world by storm since late 2022. Such collaborations can widen access to advanced AI capabilities, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises, enabling them to effectively implement AI-driven security measures, Wu said. The integration of AI into cybersecurity is not just a technological advancement but a necessity in the face of evolving cyber threats. As AI continues to redefine content production and consumption, its role in cybersecurity becomes increasingly critical, Wu said. Zhou Hongyi, founder and chairman of 360 Security Group, emphasized the critical role of AI in addressing the limitations of traditional cybersecurity methods. AI's superior data processing capabilities and its ability to quickly respond to incidents and trace security breaches are pivotal in managing the vast amounts of data involved in cybersecurity operations, Zhou said. He underscored the need for AI-driven solutions to stay ahead of malicious actors who are increasingly leveraging AI to develop sophisticated attack tools. AI-assisted crimes have been rising. For instance, in February, Hong Kong police revealed a fraud case where individuals used AI deepfake technology. The perpetrators impersonated a multinational company's chief financial officer during a video conference, convincing a Hong Kong-based employee to transfer HK$200 million ($30.9 million).The fraud was only uncovered when the employee verified the request with the headquarters. This incident highlights the dual-edged nature of AI in cybersecurity. While AI can greatly enhance defense mechanisms, it also equips adversaries with powerful tools to execute more convincing and sophisticated attacks. This dichotomy necessitates a robust AI-centric approach to cybersecurity that can both counteract AI-enhanced threats and leverage AI's capabilities to strengthen defenses, experts said. In response to these challenges, companies like 360 Security Group are heavily investing in the development of AI-driven cybersecurity models. Zhou said the 360 Security Model includes six specialized submodels focusing on various aspects of cybersecurity, such as attack detection, operational management, traceability, knowledge management, data protection, code security and vulnerability analysis. This comprehensive approach ensures that different facets of cybersecurity are addressed using tailored AI solutions, Zhou said. Moreover, to make these advanced security models accessible, 360 Security Group has announced that its security model will be available for free to customers purchasing its standard products, with existing customers receiving free upgrades. (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Liang Jun) Monday, August 5, 2024 - American actor, Zac Efron has spoken out after being taken to a hospital in Spain following an 'incident in a swimming pool' at a villa in Ibiza last Friday. The High School Musical actor, 36, took to his Instagram Stories on Sunday to share a photo of himself working out shirtless, lifting barbells while lying on an exercise ball. 'Happy and Healthy, thanks for the well wishes,' the actor captioned the post. The star's message comes after sources revealed to TMZ that the actor was 'found inside the swimming pool by two people working at the villa who pulled him out of the water.' His representative confirmed to the outlet that Efron was hospitalized 'as a precautionary measure' following the 'minor' incident and is 'recovering just fine.' He was released from the hospital on Saturday morning. The incident comes more than a decade after he 'shattered' his jaw after he slipped on a pair of socks while running at his home, which caused him to smash his chin into a granite fountain. In 2022, he told Men's Health Magazine that he lost consciousness only to wake up with 'his chin bone hanging off his face.' Efron said that when he was injured, the masseter muscles on the inside of his face and jaw then 'compensated' for his injury causing them to grow in size - hence his remarkable transformation. He says this explains why he looked so different at the time. 'The masseters just grew. They just got really, really big.' Following the accident, Efron has been at the center of plastic surgery rumors, but the hunky actor the star insisted that the changes are just the result of shattering his jaw. As Rael left the hospital, she felt confused. Her medication made her head hazy. She was perpetually thirsty to the point that her friend Sandra joked that she will start walking with the back behind her back. Her speech was slurred, her memory was messed up and she had a terrible migraine. She just wanted to sleep. Her mother was still fuming that Rael had refused to go to Kisii with her so that she could take care of her. After what her mother had told her, going to Kisii would have been a trigger to her. There was so much she needed to take in and figure out. She was angry and confused. She also needed to fix her work situation so ushago was not an option. Her mother was to stay with her for two days as she had to go and take care of her father. Sandra passed by an hour later to bring them food and shopping. Rael was in her bedroom trying to reply to work emails and she was really struggling. Do you know you can be very easily be replaced if you die right now? Please get some rest Rael. Look at how you are sweating. Put that laptop down and rest. That is an order. Leave me alone Sandra. The new position I was assigned is very demanding to the point I am wondering if they wanted me to rest as per their email ama this is a punishment. Anyway, I am almost done. Collins is an asshole I will lose my job if anything goes wrong. I hate that man. Please do the bare minimum. Kwanza si they have reduced your salary. Meanwhile let me serve you some food before you take your medication. I need to rush to work. I will use your car if you do not mind. Do not remind me about the salary story. That was very unfair. Kwanza we get paid today. Let me check my account and see how much they have paid me. Bring that food haraka I am so hungry I can eat a whole cow. You can use my car as long as you do not disappear with it like that fake doctor. As Sandra left the room she picked her phone to check her bank account via internet banking. She wanted to see if her salary had checked in and her account balance left her shaking and puking all over her bedroom. From a previous net salary of 182,000 she had received a salary of 70,000 and she flipped. Her rent was 50k, she had utilities to pay for, her car insurance was due, she had to pay for the loan she had taken, her mother was around and would need fare back and money to take care of her and her dad. She did not know what she would do to take care of everything. Sandra walked in to find her shaking and surrounded by vomit. By now they all understood that this was a panic attack. Sweetheart, what happened? What has triggered you hun? I am so sorry. You remember what the doctor told us? Take a deep breath.good. Now, exhale slowly. Good girl. Keep doing that. Gosh! What happened? You know what? Dont talk. Let us make you calm first. Keep breathing I am okay. Give me a towel I go shower. Can you believe akina Collins have paid me 70k. What the hell am I supposed to do with that amount? How am I supposed to survive on that? This is wrong. Let me get this vomit off my body I am so sorry hun. We will figure things out. We always do. I want you to focus on getting better mami. I do not want you going back to the hospital. We will get a way of paying the bills. Do you think you will be okay being in the shower alone with the frequent panic attacks? I am fine. I will be better if I get to strangle and kill Collins. Gin will help me too. My mother needs to get out of this house I go drinking. I do not know what she is doing in this house. Wacha nioge. While in the shower she made a mental note to reach out to Steve and talk to him. He had money and could be a temporary solution as she attempts to handle the situation at work. She just needed to invite him over give him one of her acclaimed blow jobs and sex him a good one and he will be opening up his wallet like he always does. She knew that he liked her and did not do a lot but she wanted him not to have any reasons to not give her money. Her mother was to travel to Kisii on Sunday but that was family day for Steve so Monday would be the perfect day. Thankfully she had been cleared to work from home until the doctor recommended otherwise. The thought that Steve would be with her CID wife on Sunday and her on Monday, made her smile and add to her conclusion that marriages are a big lie. She had watched in the office how married people, both men and women, were the most unfaithful lot led by Collins who had the ability of sleeping with any female whom he came across. She pitied their spouses and promised herself that she would not get married. She had previously told herself that she would only get married if she found a man like her dad, but her mothers recent revelations had completely shocked her and made her believe that marriage is nothing but a big scam and a source of all forms of diseases. By the time she left the bathroom, Sandra had already left and her food was cold. She peeped in the living room as she went to warm her food and found her mother heavily asleep. If Steve was her neighbor, this would have been the perfect time to sneak him in and have risky sex which she absolutely loved. The stifled moans and thoughts of being caught really excited her and she even giggled at the thought. She went to her room and immediately texted Steve. I am just thinking of how exciting it would be to have some risky sex with you as my mum slept on the couch Babe, hi. Have you taken your medication? Is this a side effect of the medication you are taking? Hahahaha! I am fine. I have just missed you. Theres so much I would like to do to you. Come we have risky sex My crazy woman. I swear I have a hard on and I am in a meeting. Why are you doing this to me? When is mum going back to shagz? I cannot make love to you with your mother around but as soon as she leaves I will be at your door with my hard on. Mum is leaving on Sunday morning but I know Sunday is family day for you and I would not want to spoil that for you. Monday morning perhaps? I will be there on Sunday. I cannot wait until Monday. I will be taking my people to the club and I can manage a few hours away from them. If you will still want this dick on Monday still, I will bring it. I work hard like that. Hmmmm! I like that. See you on Sunday then. See you then. You had better maintain that energy until then. Take care Rael smiled. Men can be quite predictableshe thought to herself as she smiled. She took her medication and waited for it to take her out. She honestly wished that her mother was not around. She loved her but she was at a point in life where she wanted no one around her. People drained her and conversations made her want to run away. She particularly felt some type of way about her parents and the fact that they had been hiding their HIV status from her and she was the one paying their medical bills. She felt like she needed some time away from them for a while. She was really happy it got to Sunday and it was time for her mother to go home. Because of the medication effects, she could not shop for her so she gave her money for shopping and medication. Since she could not drive as well, Sandra offered to drop her mother to the bus station on her way to church. As soon as Sandra drove off, she texted Steve giving him the green light and he texted back. I know, I was parked very close to your house. I could not wait anymore They were all over each other as soon as soon as the door was opened and they had the best and most explosive sex they had ever had. The stayed in each others arms cuddled, talked and had lots of sex until it was time for Steve to leave. Babe I have to go pick my people. I will be back tomorrow if you will still have the energy. Since my wife knew about you she has been really monitoring our accounts since they are joint accounts. Here is 5k, buy yourself some fruits as I find ways of getting you more As Steve left, Rael was in shock. 5k? Account monitored? No wonder the wife no longer called to threaten her. Her plan had failed and she did not know how and what she was going to do. Connect with Rael! raelendears@gmail.com. Stay tuned and be part of Rael's journey every week. Do you have thoughts, questions, or personal insights about this weeks adventure? Rael loves hearing from her fans and is eager to see your reactions and responses! Reach out to her directly at:. Stay tuned and be part of Rael's journey every week. <<>> Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - Keroche heiress Anerlisa Muigai and her controversial boyfriend, Joe Kariuki, are reportedly running a scam and conning gullible job seekers of their hard-earned money. One of the victims reached out to blogger Edgar Obare and claimed that the couple has conned over 70 people. Anerlisa and Joe reportedly run a company called Signer Travel which promises young Kenyans jobs abroad. She has been posing as a brand ambassador for the company but according to an insider, she co-owns the company with her boyfriend. They demand Ksh 10,000 from jobseekers for registration and an additional Ksh 2,500 for medical bills. The job seekers have not gotten any reply from the company after paying the application fee, with reports indicating that it could be a well-executed scam. Anerlisas boyfriend is a well-known conman and has even served a jail term in Tanzania over fraud. He might have introduced her to scams after they fell in love. See the expose by Edgar Obare. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, August 5, 2024 - Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's son, Pax, has been released from ICU following his e-bike crash. The 20-year-old will have a 'long road of recovery' and 'suffered complex trauma' a source told People of his condition. 'Pax has been released from the ICU. He suffered complex trauma, and now begins the long road of recovery and physical therapy.' The insider added that Pax and Angelina, 49, 'are deeply grateful for the quick and life-saving action of first responders, and the outstanding medical care he received.' The Oscar winner remains by her son's side, as well as his other siblings, with the source noting they 'have been visiting and helping', and adding, 'They are all very close.' As for Pax's estranged father Brad, a rep for the 60-year-old actor declined to comment when asked by DailyMail.com if he planned to visit his son in the hospital. It comes following claims that the actress is reportedly seeking help for her 'troubled' son. Angelina has been by Pax's side at the hospital since he crashed into a car during rush hour in the Los Feliz area of Los Angeles on Monday, July 29. He was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. A source told TMZ on Tuesday that witnesses who lived nearby initially believed Pax had died in the crash as they discovered him lying lifeless on the ground. It was not until paramedics arrived at the scene that Pax regained consciousness. Page Six is reporting that this was not the first time the young man has been involved in incidents involving two and four wheeled vehicles. 'His friends are concerned about him,' an insider told the outlet alleging, 'He's being reckless. They're worried.' Monday, August 5, 2024 - Angry protesters in Bangladesh broke their way into the country's Parliament after weeks of protests against a quota system for government jobs. The break-in occurred after the country's prime minister, Sheikh Hasina,76, resigned and fled to India. She was the longest-serving female leader in the world. The people of Bangladesh have been protesting since last month over civil service job quotas, economic challenges, and corruption. At least 94 people have been killed, 14 of whom were police officers. Watch the video below Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has admitted that he is working with former President Uhuru Kenyatta the same way President William Ruto is working with opposition leader, Raila Odinga. In a joint interview with Gikuyu media stations on Sunday, Gachagua noted that both Uhuru and his mother, Mama Ngina, and the residents of Mt Kenya had accepted his apology for previous comments. Gachagua revealed that he frequently communicates with Uhuru and that they are collaborating on several initiatives. "Uhuru, Mama Ngina and the mountain people accepted my apology. And besides speaking more often, there are things we are doing together," said Gachagua. Gachagua urged Mt Kenya residents not to allow their children to be used to undermine the "king" of the Kikuyu community. He also stated that despite Uhurus warnings, the region did not heed his advice, recalling an incident where he was embarrassed at Kasarani during the handover ceremony. "He went to Kasarani embarrassed and handed over the sword. Now it has been two years since then, why are we still blaming him for our problems like the economy? "Let us leave him alone. Let him rest and for us, the problems we have as a government we should handle them ourselves," he requested. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been secretly working with former President Uhuru Kenyatta behind President William Rutos back. This came up during an interview where Gachagua admitted to working in cahoots with Uhuru. This may explain why Rutos government thinks Gachagua has been funding the Gen Z protests to destabilize the government, a move that saw his close allies arrested and interrogated over the issue. At the same time, Gachagua pledged to defend Uhuru from further attacks aimed at tarnishing his legacy and reputation. He noted that both Uhuru and his mother, Mama Ngina, and the residents of Mt Kenya had accepted his apology for previous comments. Gachagua revealed that he frequently communicates with Uhuru and that they are collaborating on several initiatives. "Uhuru, Mama Ngina and the mountain people accepted my apology. And besides speaking more often, there are things we are doing together," said Gachagua. Gachagua urged Mt Kenya residents not to allow their children to be used to undermine the "king" of the Kikuyu community. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sent a tough warning to President William Rutos allies who are spreading false information concerning his relationship with the Head of State. Speaking during an interview, Gachagua disputed claims that he does not see eye-to-eye with the President. According to him, his working relationship with Ruto is firm and geared towards transforming the country. The DP noted that Ruto even consulted him before making the final decision on the broad-based government that saw allies of Raila Odinga being nominated to the cabinet. "There exists no bad blood between President Ruto and I. We have a good relationship and as his principal assistant he consults me on various issues, for instance on the formation of the broad-based Government, before making the final decision, said Gachagua. He has assigned me many other mandates such as Chairing and Coordinating Inter-Governmental relations between the National Government and County Governments including Chairing the Inter-Governmental Budget and Economic Council (IBEC)," he added. Gachagua said as the Presidents Principal assistant, he can't contradict Rutos position, adding that his duty is to serve Kenyans and execute the roles assigned to me by the Head of State. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, August 6,2024 - Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria left tongues wagging after he was spotted at former Prime Minister Raila Odingas offices at Capitol Hill on Monday. Since the formation of a government of national unity, Capitol Hill has become another mini-state where senior government officials and politicians gather to seek advice from the old man. On Monday, Kuria, who was recently sacked from the cabinet, was among politicians who visited Raila Odinga at his offices in Upper Hill. "This morning at Capitol Hill I held a meeting with my friend Rt. Hon Raila Odinga. "We discussed various issues facing the nation at the moment. "I thanked Baba for bending backward (Yet again) to save the country from self-destruction," Kuria wrote on his X page. During their discussion, Kuria and Raila focused on the forthcoming national dialogue, which aims to achieve deliberate structural reforms for a lasting solution. Kuria emphasized his commitment to collaborating with other like-minded individuals to address and resolve the nation's current challenges effectively. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, August 5, 2024 - A hospital staff has said it's rare to meet a male doctor who doesn't cheat. She made this known on X while reacting to a post about the benefits of dating doctors. Responding, the hospital staff wrote: "Ive actually never met a male doctor that wasnt a cheat. If you see the rubbish your doctor husband and boyfriends are doing in the hospital with student nurses, Interns, nurses, patients, house officers, cleaners. Lol your eye will clear." Monday, August 5, 2024 - In a shocking incident at a primary school in one of Gauteng's townships, three men armed with kn!ves and one wielding a r!fle forcibly abducted two children, threatening staff members in the process. The entire ordeal was captured on video and shared by Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, with the caption, These thugs must be found. The disturbing footage shows the men dragging the hysterical children from the school, despite numerous attempts by bystanders to intervene. One of the assailants menacingly brandishes a knife towards a bystander who tries to stop them. The children are then taken to a waiting car, where another man, armed with a r!fle, stands guard. In the video, presumed staff members and other bystanders can be heard pleading with the kidnappers to release the children, questioning their actions. Each approach by the bystanders is met with aggressive threats and the display of raised pangas. One of the kidnappers by the car confronts the crowd, saying, Who do you think you are? when asked about the children's abduction. The Gauteng police have acknowledged the incident and stated that they will issue an official statement later. This brazen act has sparked outrage and fear in the community, with calls for the immediate capture of the perpetrators and the safe return of the children. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to aid in the swift resolution of this case. Watch the video below Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - Firebrand lawyer, Miguna Miguna, has urged Kenyan Gen Zs and Millennials to come out in large numbers on Thursday and oust President William Ruto from power. Dubbed Nane Nane March, the Gen Zs and Millennials have vowed to camp at Nairobis Central Business District (CBD) on Thursday and call for the resignation of President William Ruto and his corrupt administration. If he does not resign by the afternoon, Gen Zs and Millennials have vowed to organize a 1 million-person march to State House to evict Ruto, similar to how Bangladeshi citizens pressured former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign on Monday. Miguna urged Gen Zs and millennials to ensure Ruto resigns, criticizing him for appointing his girlfriend, Soipan Tuya, as Cabinet Secretary for Defence, likening it to the practices of African dictators. The illegal appointment of Soipan TUYA, who is @WilliamsRutos SECOND and favourite WIFE, as Cabinet Secretary for Defence, means that Ruto is the DE FACTO minister of defence. "Its intended to MILITARIZE the State and PERSONALIZE power, in direct contravention of the Constitution. "Ruto is following @KagutaMusevenis authoritarian script. "He has become an existential threat to democracy, the rule of law, good governance, and the principles of constitutionalism. "Therefore, in military-strategic terms, Kenyans must make August 8, 2024, Rutos WATERLOO, Miguna wrote on his Twitter page. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria was a guest of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Capitol Hill yesterday. In a statement after the meeting, Kuria indirectly announced that he had joined Raila after President William Ruto refused to reappoint him to his Cabinet, with reports indicating that the former CS was feeling depressed due to joblessness and had resorted to alcoholism. Kuria revealed that he had agreed to work closely with former Raila Odinga going forward. He noted that the meeting took place in the presence of Railas son, Raila Odinga Junior. At the center of their discussions were numerous issues the country is facing. "This morning (yesterday) at Capitol Hill I held a meeting with my friend Rt Hon Raila Odinga," Kuria stated. "We discussed various issues facing the nation at the moment. I thanked Baba for bending backward (Yet again) to save the country from self-destruction." He further revealed that the duo agreed to ensure national dialogue, which has been in place since the elections, reaches a structural reform. "We were unanimous that going forward we cannot continue to prescribe Panadol where surgery is required," he added. "The upcoming process of national dialogue MUST and Will culminate in deliberate structural reform for a lasting solution. "We will work very, very closely in that endeavor as we continue to consult with other like-minded leaders." The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - ODM leader Raila Odinga now believes he is the reason President William Ruto is free to walk around the country without backlash after the Gen Z protests thanks to the tyranny of brains he has donated to Kenya Kwanza Government. Speaking at Toi Market, Raila stated that clueless Ruto ran to him for help after things went south and that he has donated some experts to help him steady the government He exuded confidence that Rutos new broad-based government would live up to Kenyans' expectations. Raila said his party has people who will help the President deliver on his pledges. We have given him experts, you will now see things changing, Raila told a gathering at Toi Market in Nairobi Monday evening. According to Raila, Ruto disbanded the Cabinet and asked to be given people who would assist him in delivering his promises to the people. At the same time, Raila defended his move to join Rutos government and form a broad-based government that has four members of his ODM party. Ruto nominated ODMs two deputy party leaders, Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya, national chairman John Mbadi, and National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi to his Cabinet. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader, Raila Odinga, has ordered Nairobi County Governor Johnson Sakaja to build a perimeter wall around Toi Market in Nairobi to prevent future fires. This is after four people died after a fire engulfed the market last week. Speaking on Monday after visiting the victims of the Toi Market fire, Raila said the construction of the perimeter wall should start immediately. The opposition chief noted that the Nairobi County Government has allocated Sh100 million to construct Toi Market in the current financial year. "I have issued an order to the governor that the construction of this fence surrounding the market should begin immediately. This is because they have one hundred million shillings in their budget this year to start building this market. We are saying they should begin by constructing the fence, Raila said. The former Prime Minister claimed that some individuals who are trying to grab the Toi Market land are behind frequent fire incidents in the busy market. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has revealed how President William Ruto was desperate to have Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) technocrats join the Kenya Kwanza Alliance government Initially, the former prime minister claimed the president never consulted with him when nominating five ODM officials to the Cabinet. However, speaking at Toi Market on Monday, Raila admitted that he was aware of his allies' appointments to the Cabinet. Raila said Ruto sought help after his Cabinet failed to deliver on its mandate to Kenyans. According to Raila, the experts recruited by Ruto from the ODM ranks are a much-needed boost to Ruto's troubled ship and will assist the administration in turning things around. "Now you see, the guys were struggling with the work; he disbanded the cabinet and came to us asking to give the people. They came and knelt down, saying we should give the people We have given him experts, you will now see things changing, Raila said. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, August 5, 2024 - Rapper T.I. was arrested on Sunday night at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in a case of mistaken identity. A warrant had been issued for another man named Clifford Harris, T.I.'s real name, who was wanted in Baltimore, Maryland. The suspect is wanted for alleged involvement in violent behavior toward a woman, stalking, and possibly involving a gun. T.I. was taken from the airport to Clayton County Jail. Since the warrant was issued out of state, the arrest triggered an automatic extradition hearing. T.I.'s attorney, Steve Sadow, told TMZ he got on the phone with the Clayton County Sheriff's Office and had T.I. released within two hours of his arrest. The judge reviewed and dismissed the extradition order. The Clifford Harris who is wanted reportedly weighs 205 pounds, while T.I. weighs 165 pounds. The complaint was filed on June 13 this year. Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - New details have emerged over how Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga traveled to Dubai to receive bribes from President William Ruto to scuttle Gen Z protests. Since early June, Gen Zs have staged protests every Tuesday, with a notable peak on June 25 when they stormed Parliament and chased MPs supporting the Finance Bill 2024, which was subsequently withdrawn by President Ruto. The Gen Z protests almost brought the country to its knees and the President hurriedly approached Raila Odinga to help him steady his sinking ship. According to a local daily, Raila Odinga demanded a meeting with Ruto in Dubai to discuss how to end the Gen Z protests. According to the daily, Rutos government arranged the meeting, but the president was hesitant to travel abroad due to concerns about a potential Gen Z coup. Raila Odinga traveled to Dubai with his political brokers, including Suna East MP Junet Mohamed and former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho. On his part, President Ruto sent his aides, led by his rogue aide Farouk Kibet and some family members, to meet Raila Odinga in Dubai. During the meeting, Raila Odinga reportedly demanded Sh 2 billion and five Cabinet appointments to halt the Gen Z protests. The money, according to the report, was transferred to an account belonging to Raila Odingas lawyer. Further, Ruto honoured Raila Odinga by appointing five of his close allies into his cabinet in what is being labelled as a broad-based government. The five are Hassan Joho (Mining and Blue Economy), Wycliffe Oparanya ( Cooperatives and MSMEs), John Mbadi (Treasury and Economic Planning ), Opiyo Wandayi ( Energy and Petroleum), and Beatrice Moe ( East Africa Community Affairs). The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - The World Bank is set to approve a loan for President William Ruto to help him implement the second phase of the Kenya Social Economic Inclusion Project (KSEIP). The Bank is expected to inject Ksh26 billion (USD200 Million) into the project by October. KSEIP is a project through which the government aims to disburse funds for senior citizens and vulnerable individuals in society. Furthermore, the World Bank noted that the project is in its Concept Review Stage where the Bank would consider alternatives for the implementation of the second phase. Additionally, the projects will be under the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection and the National Drought Management Authority. The disbursement is expected to be used for the financial year 2025 beginning July 1, 2025, and where the funds will be disbursed to vulnerable and older generations in social support. The government has been utilising the funds already disbursed in the 2024 financial year. This announcement comes after the government registered senior citizens for monthly stipends in September 2023. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, August 6, 2024 In what appears to be panic on the part of the Government of President William Ruto, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has convened a meeting with Regional Commissioners to prepare for the Gen Z protests on Thursday dubbed Nanenanemarch. In a statement after the Meeting, the Ministry of Interior noted that National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) must adopt proactive measures to manage protests. During the meeting, PS Omollo and the Regional Commissioners also reviewed coordination roles to enhance dialogue that resonates with the grievances of Kenyans. In light of the recent public unrest, it is evident that National Government Administrative Officers must adopt a more proactive and visible approach to managing such situations. PS Raymond Omollo convened a meeting with Regional Commissioners to discuss the law and public order situation across their respective regions and also reviewed their coordination role to better foster genuine dialogue that resonates with the public's grievances, the Ministry of Interior. The meeting further discussed training of NGAOs for improved service delivery to the people, maintaining law and order, and evaluation of government development projects. This comes following weeks of anti-government protests that have been witnessed across major towns in the country. The demos in some towns turned chaotic with properties being destroyed and some protestors being shot by the police. The protests were initially called to push Members of Parliament to reject the contagious Finance Bill 2024 but escalated to calls for better governance and the Gen Zs now want Ruto to resign. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, August 6, 2024 Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and his ODM Party may soon find themselves out of Azimio. This is after Azimio bigwigs reached out to former President Uhuru Kenyatta to kick Raila and his ODM out of Azimio for joining President William Rutos government. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, PNU's Peter Munya, and Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni argue that Raila can no longer be entrusted with leading the coalition due to his recent dealings with Ruto. They thus asked Uhuru, who is the Azimio Chairman, to start the process of ejecting Raila from the coalition leadership since he cannot be trusted. They equally asked ODM to quit Azimio formally and side with the government as its membership would purpose. "Those who want to join the government should do so formally. This is the restructuring we are advocating for. This meeting must occur within the next 14 days," said Munya. "Azimio is a house that we all built. We want to clean that house instead of building another house. "The only way to clean it is to ensure that if there is anybody who wants to be in government, let him go there," he added. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - A few weeks ago, Patricia Muthoni was stabbed at a Kilimani Airbnb by a lady called Sally after they were invited for paid fun by Lamu Senator Joseph Githuku. Speaking to Citizen TV, Patricia said Sally picked a knife from the kitchen and stabbed her in the abdomen after a fight broke out during a drinking spree. After the assault, she was locked in the room and left alone. She was rescued by security guards who heard her scream. Patricia was taken to the hospital and later recorded a statement at Kilimani Police Station. The stab wound was so deep, it was on the lower abdomen, Kilimani Police Commander Kobia Bariu told the media. Sally was arrested and later released under controversial circumstances, with reports indicating that the Senator might have bribed police officers handling the case. Sallys identity has since been unmasked. See her photos below. Watch the video of the altercation if you missed it. Lamu senator Joseph Githuku invited two clads and one stabbed the other in Kilimani apartment. The guy who brought them tried to resolve the issue pic.twitter.com/QG7i6ybyKK Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 10, 2024 The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - The Party of National Unity (PNU) Leader Peter Munya has spilled the beans on how ODM Leader Raila Odinga betrayed Azimio and joined President William Rutos government. Speaking during an interview, Munya revealed significant discord within Azimio after Railas betrayal. According to Munya, Raila went against Azimio's agreement after he went to bed with Ruto, who is considered as the enemy by the Opposition. Munya described the contentious issue as the "donation of members of ODM into the Kenya Kwanza government," highlighting that this decision was made without the consensus of the coalition. He emphasized that there had been discussions among the Azimio leadership, where it was unanimously agreed that joining the government was not the best course of action. "The key event that has made us quite uncomfortable is the one we are calling donation of members ODM into the Kenya Kwanza government. "There had been discussions and we had been told by our leader in Azimio that he had been approached and there had been discussions to join the government. "We had discussed and agreed that it was not right to join the government because the issues we had been pushing during demonstrations led by our leader and the ones led by Gen Z had not been resolved," Munya stated. Munya elaborated on Azimio's stance, noting that any collaboration with Rutos government should be legally established, akin to the accord made with former President Mwai Kibaki. "We reached a point whereby there was an agreement that if at any point it became necessary for the opposition to join the government then it had to be a government that is established by law like the one we joined at some point with Kibaki where there was an accord that clearly spelt out what that government was going to do," Munya explained. He stressed that without such a framework, joining the government would merely serve as a lifeline for the current administration, which is under considerable pressure. The Kenyan DAILY POST Pakistan, classified as a lower-middle-income nation, is experiencing a massive increase in the number of cancer cases. Our health expenditure as a proportion of the gross domestic product (GDP) is worryingly small in contrast to that of more developed nations. We are fighting with illiteracy, poverty, limited resources, lack of awareness regarding screening and early presentation of tumors, and an inadequate number of trained oncologists. There are very few centers with state-of-the-art chemotherapy and radiation facilities catering to the needs of a huge population with cancer. Female patients from rural areas present with breast cancer at a very late stage due to a lack of awareness, cultural and social barriers, and stigmatization regarding this disease that makes them hesitant to consult with oncologists. In the early stages of their symptoms, they usually seek help from unqualified practitioners and local quacks, sometimes for months. As a result, when they report to a tertiary care hospital at a later stage, their cancer is usually advanced or metastatic. The treatment then becomes more challenging, resulting in more financial toxicity. In our country, there are very few female oncologists, and the majority of female patients prefer not to be examined by male physicians. This is another reason that makes them more reluctant to visit hospitals. Low literacy rates and language barriers contribute to a poor understanding of their disease nature and treatment plan, leading to poor adherence to treatment and, ultimately, poor outcomes. When receiving radiation therapy, many female patients with breast cancer primarily want female radiation therapists to be present for them on the machine. Scarcely any radiation therapists are female, which affects not only patient comfort but also the reproducibility of the patients position during the radiation treatment. In the worst situation, this results in treatment refusal and treatment delays. Apart from all of this, there is another aspect that is being completely overlooked and is very difficult to discuss: sexual health during and after cancer treatment. Cancer affects the quality of life and the physical and emotional well-being of an individual. Besides that, it certainly takes a toll on mental health and sexual health as well. While biological factors, such as the urge for reproduction, play a significant role in sexuality, other factors, such as individual needs and desires, emotions, behaviors, and identities, are equally essential. The World Health Organisation defines sexuality as a central aspect of being human throughout life (that) encompasses sex, gender identities and roles, sexual orientation, eroticism, pleasure, intimacy, and reproduction. A vital component of general health and well-being, sexual health is frequently disregarded during patient visits, educational settings, and our medical training. Although a majority of cancer patients in Pakistan are least concerned about the sexual implications of their treatment, many people believe that their sexual well-being is essential to their sense of self and personal integrity, which makes it possible for them to manage their illness. Its the basic right of a patient to have complete information about the possible impacts of cancer treatment on having children, unplanned pregnancies, contraception, and infertility. Explaining to them the effects of treatment on their sexual health is as important as guiding them about the best treatment options. Young patients of childbearing age especially need to have complete information on this very important and sensitive topic. Once, a young girl treated for rectal cancer, on her follow-up visit, asked me why she had not gotten her period since the time of completion of her radiation therapy. The fact that she completed her treatment and was unaware of any side effects left me speechless. Body image dissatisfaction due to the loss of a breast after a mastectomy is a common problem. Its not okay when you say to a patient who has lost her breast: Appreciate the fact that at least you are alive. I find it quite an insensitive statement to disregard ones concerns about body image issues. Its a complete invalidation of the difficult experience and mental trauma a patient goes through. Many female patients express that they wonder if their partners will still find them desirable. We dont have enough time to give them the confidence or inspiration to discuss these matters. When our female patients with gynecologic cancers receive brachytherapy from male physicians, they experience intense anxiety as well as feelings of shame and guilt. Female patients find it difficult to discuss and follow post-procedural advice, such as vaginal dilatation, as they feel hesitant to talk about this with male doctors. Later on, their personal and sexual life may be further impacted by difficulties, particularly vaginal stenosis, which is more likely to happen due to this lack of communication. Feeling ugly after the loss of hair and nails due to chemotherapy, skin changes and scars after radiation therapy, and differences in body weight are real issues that need to be addressed. The only thing our overworked oncologists can say is, You have to cope with it. Even if it is required to stop a female patients cancer from relapsing, we should not be the ones to decide on her ovarian ablation without first talking about infertility. She still has the right to desire more children in the future, even if she already has two or three. It is a typical observation that older individuals with prostate cancer are not informed about the risk of developing erectile dysfunction. Physicians just assume that their sexual life must be over by this age. Out of shyness, on several occasions, many patients, both male and female, have brought me to another room merely to inquire, Can we do it? It pains me to see that they have completely given up on having an intimate relationship out of concern that it might hurt their treatment or prognosis. Sometimes I find it necessary if I can persuade them to let go of their worries and just make an effort to lead regular lives. Because of societal and cultural hurdles, many are quite hesitant to bring up these topics with their family. Patients suffering from lymphomas, leukemias, germ cell tumors, gynecological, and genitourinary tumors need to be counseled properly before chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Before initiating any kind of treatment, it is important to talk about the management options for tumors that may cause a hormonal imbalance, growth retardation, irreversible hair loss, and infertility later on. It should be our responsibility to advise them that cryopreservation and sperm banking are always options. Just because they might not afford to avail themselves of these options, even then, someones right to be informed about the most minute facts of their treatment cannot be taken away from them. Taking care of a cancer patient means paying attention to all aspects of his or her well-being, including issues of sexuality. However, consideration of these needs frequently remains unmet and results in heightened emotional distress. More and more educated patients are reporting their concerns about sexuality are not always addressed during their visits with physicians. Our physicians feel uncomfortable and embarrassed when having such conversations with patients. It is a real concern that very few healthcare professionals can answer such queries satisfactorily and politely. Another issue we are dealing with is that physicians feel unprepared to have such a discourse because they are overworked. To set clear expectations, it would be helpful to train future doctors to address these issues and patient care in this regard. Can we set aside the cultural taboos and constraints on discussing this subject for a short period during a 20-minute consultation? All we have to do is listen to the patient with an open mind and a non-judgmental approach, respecting their right to privacy and confidentiality, keeping aside the thoughts of social barriers, and seeing the patient just as another human being with needs similar to our own. We must acknowledge that sexual health is an essential component of our patients lives. And I am sure most of us dont want to see our patients suffering in silence and isolation. Damane Zehra is a radiation oncology resident in Pakistan. The increased use of internet data by the general public has driven MTN Ugandas profit after tax to Shs295.7 billion in the first half of 2024, compared to Shs225 billion over the same period in 2023. MTN Uganda Chief Executive Officer, Sylvia Mulinge, says this development indicates a growing preference among Ugandans for internet services over other services provided by the company. Our two-pronged strategy of deepening smartphone penetration through device financing and strategic partnerships with device manufacturers has yielded a 5.9 percentage point growth to 41.6 percent. We have continued to improve our data value proposition which has reduced churn and increased usage, Ms Mulinge said. She says the companys performance report indicates that data revenue accelerated by 28.6% boosted by a 26.8% growth in data users to 8.8 million. The Lord Mayor of Kampala City, Mr Erias Lukwago, has urged the different city traders associations to unite in the fight against their challenges. We want to support you [traders], we are behind you but you need to work in unison to avoid having these frictions amongst yourselves, Mr Lukwago said. This follows disagreements among associations such as FUTA, KATA, and their umbrella body, the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA). This has been evident during several organized traders protests against high taxes and other concerns, where some leaders mobilize traders for demonstrations while others call them off before receiving satisfactory responses from the authorities. Lukwago says that if these leaders cannot agree on a common goal, traders will continue to suffer without government intervention. He also added that Kampalas political leaders cannot effectively assist traders without a unified voice. BY REUTERS Bangladeshs president dissolved parliament on Tuesday, clearing the way for an interim government and new elections a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled following a violent crackdown on a student-led uprising. President Mohammed Shahabuddins office also announced that the leader of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party, Begum Khaleda Zia, a former prime minister who had feuded with Hasina for decades, had been freed from house arrest. Student protesters had threatened more demonstrations if parliament was not dissolved. The movement that toppled Hasina rose out of demonstrations against public sector job quotas for families of veterans of Bangladeshs 1971 independence war, seen by critics as a means to reserve jobs for allies of the ruling party. About 300 people were killed and thousands injured in violence that ripped through the country since July. After demonstrators stormed and looted the prime ministers lavish residence on Monday, the streets of the capital Dhaka were again peaceful on Tuesday, with traffic lighter than usual and many schools and businesses that shut during the unrest still closed. Garment factories, which supply apparel to some of the worlds top brands and are a mainstay of the economy, will reopen on Wednesday after being shut due to the disruptions, the main garment manufacturers association said. The decision to dissolve parliament was taken following meetings with the heads of armed forces, leaders of political parties, student leaders and some civil society representatives, a presidential statement said. Negotiations on the formation of the interim government continued through Tuesday, a student leader and a government official told Reuters. President Shahabuddin had said earlier that an interim government would hold elections soon after it takes over. Nahid Islam, a key organiser of the campaign against Hasina, said in a video message: Any government other than the one we recommended would not be accepted. Hasinas flight ended her 15-year second stint in power in the country of 170 million people, which she had ruled for 20 of the last 30 years at the helm of a political movement inherited from her father, state founder Mujibur Rahman, after he was assassinated in 1975. Since the early 1990s Hasina had feuded and alternated power with her rival Zia, who inherited her own political movement from her husband Ziaur Rahman, a ruler himself assassinated in 1981. A mum has made an impassioned plea for help to fund urgent medical treatment for her daughter. Roxanne Kelly is six and is the big sister, by all of one minute, to twin brother Curtis. She was born with a rare condition called Arthrogryposis, which severely impacts her physical movement. She cannot walk, crawl, sit, stand or feed herself. She rolls on the floor at home to play and move about. Despite these difficulties, Roxannes condition has never held her back. Speaking to The Nationalist, her Carlow mum Mairin described little Roxanne as fun-loving, outgoing, extremely intelligent, energetic and happy, adding that she has a love for life and lights up our lives and those of everyone she meets. Roxannes cognitive function is perfect. She attends Gaelscoil Eoghain Ui Thuairisc, where shell start senior infants in September. When out and about, Roxanne uses a customised power wheelchair that she controls by tilting her head. Shes super-speedy and brings her brother down to school on the back of her wheelchair, said Mairin, adding that the pair are best friends and do everything together. Best friends: Roxanne with twin brother Curtis Having been on a waiting list for surgical intervention in Ireland for over four years, the family sought a second opinion on Roxannes care from the Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute, a world-renowned medical centre. The family travelled to the clinics European centre in Poland, where Mairin said there was an instant level of care, understanding and an urgency to help Roxanne improve her quality of life and her future. An MRI found that Roxanne has a chiari malformation, a condition in which brain tissue extends into the spinal canal. She also has a large thoracic arachnoid cyst. Her spinal cord is compromised, putting her at risk of neurological damage, including paralysis, chronic pain, bladder and bowel dysfunction and permanent deformities. Doctors stressed that the situation is urgent and requires immediate treatment. Mairin described the severity of the condition as heartbreaking and frightening and feels that the Irish healthcare system has overlooked Roxanne. We believe her needs are too complex and she is not getting the care she needs here in Ireland; with little communication or help here, we have decided to go ourselves to the Paley Institute in Florida for the urgent treatment required. This was not an easy decision for our family, but this is the best outcome for Roxanne, she explained. The family have set up a GoFundMe page to help raise the 180,000 needed to cover appointments, surgeries and accommodation. Mairin says this is not something we can provide and the Irish healthcare system will not provide any assistance here, or for us to go abroad. It is a difficult time for our family and the support we have received from everyone has been heart-warming. Although it will be difficult, with your help we can make such a difference to Roxannes future. In a statement issued to The Nationalist, Childrens Health Ireland (CHI) said it cannot comment on individual cases. Even if a family decides to make their story public, we are still bound by patient confidentiality. The patients clinical team can speak to the family directly to explore all treatment options available. Those wishing to donate can do so at Fundraiser for Roxanne Kelly (gofundme.com). THE first new racetrack in Ireland in 35 years planned for a location outside Allenwood has been refused, primarily because of the existence of the very rare curlew at the nearby Lullymore bog. Described as one of Irelands most threatened birds, its sighting at this location was enough for planners to refuse this novel application. Along with this, the planners also decided that the proposed development would have caused a loss of amenityprivacy and seriously injure the residential amenity of the area. A third reason given was that the site was poorly screened and would have a negative impact on the overall landscape character of the area, while the locations proximity to the Slate River was also f some concern to the planners. A local businessman Barry Travers from the village had applied for permission to retain a number of earthen mounds on his lands just off the Nurney Road, and to convert the 9.1Ha (c.23ac) site for exclusive use by off-road electric bikes. This was his second attempt to do this, having been turned down two years ago in the face of a neighbours opposition, however, Mr Travers has doubled down on that application, including a 66-page noise and dust report by Dr Imelda Shanahan. He had planned that the track would be open for bookable, one-hour sessions, six times a day, except on Sundays and Mondays. Barry (45) runs a fibre optic company in the village with his brother Brendan, and had collected a 600-strong petition in favour of his venture. There are two working bogs wither side of me that create a lot more noise and dust, he said. Along with the main racetrack, he planned to build one specifically for the kids. Ways of improving the use of the Irish language at meetings of Kildare County Council are to be considered by the councils protocol committee. This follows an extensive and sometimes dual-language debate at the July meeting on a motion by cllr Shonagh Ni Raghallaigh asking for such an initiative, and suggesting that the December meeting be conducted solely as Gaeilge. The report to the motion noted that Kildare County Council is committed to using and promoting the native language, and increasing its use at meetings benefits its status as the first official Language of the state. However, the authoritys 2018-2021 Sceim Ghaeilge Irish Language Scheme does not commit the council to conducting meetings solely through the medium. The report also noted that extremely complex and technical matters are often debated at meetings, and as a decision-making forum for the organisation, very high proficiency in Irish by all parties would be required, in the interests of accuracy. Earlier, in a nod to cllr Ni Raghallaighs wishes, cathaoirleach Cllr Joe Neville had opened the afternoons proceedings in Irish, and also noted the Clar items through the medium through the meeting. Shona Ni Rahaillaigh (pictured with Palestinian flag) called for a council meeting to be conducted in Irish Speaking to her motion, the councillor said Irish is a fundamental aspect of who we are and conducting a full meeting as Gaeilge offers an opportunity to honour our rich community. Cllr Ni Raghallaigh said the initiative would attract positive attention to Kildare, it would also be an example to other councils. I realise that it could pose challenges to some councillors, but that could be addressed through language support services and translators. It would not be just a symbolic gesture, but also a powerful statement to national pride. Supporting the motion, cllr Naoise O Cearuil thanked his colleague for bringing the motion forward, but suggested that the end of the year meeting might be conducted bilingually instead of just through Irish. Cllr Angela Feeney congratulated cllr Ni Raghallaigh for bringing the motion forward, saying that the use of Irish is latent within us and is there. It will come back to people, she said, but she cautioned that no one should feel pressurised. The principle of the motion was commended by cllr Suzanne Doyle but she said practicality is of concern. I couldnt support a meeting fully in Irish, she said. There would be no practical purpose in me sitting at a meeting that I couldnt understand. Cllr Ivan Keatley said he would be at a serious disadvantage in such a meeting. It could be discriminatory to myself and a lot of councillors, he added. He wondered if there was a technology that could provide translated subtitles on the system in real time. Happy to support the motion was cllr Ann Breen, who said the council should be committed to using and promoting the native language and official language of the state. Also indicating her support for the motions principle, cllr Veralouise Behan said her cupla focail would not be enough for her to understand proceedings, but she would appreciate the chamber being a bilingual space for all of us councillors. Cllr Aidan Farrelly made the suggestion of asking the protocol committee if there were elements of proceedings where Irish could be used regularly, such as when were voting. Cllr Noel Heavey agreed, saying that would be the way to go, the other would be dodgy enough. He also wondered if maybe Artificial Intelligence could be used to provide translations. Offering his own thoughts, the cathaoirleach said that while it would be good to do something, carrying out a full meeting as Gaeilge would be very difficult to do. On the bilingual idea, if we were to say everything twice, the meeting would be very long. Chief executive Sonja Kavanagh told the meeting she fully supported the thrust and objective of the proposal, and if there was time the responses in reports could be done bilingually. But I wouldnt have the ability to conduct follow up in the meeting. Following the decision to bring the matter to the protocol committee, cllr O Raghallaigh said she was very satisfied that the council are doing a lot and thanked all. I just had to push things a little further. During the discussion, tributes were paid to the work of the councils Gaeilge Officer, recently appointed, who is increasing opportunities for the acquisition and use of Gaeilge in a visible and effective way, including the initiative of a Club Cupla Focal. The councillors were told that Irish language courses will be facilitated in the autumn, initially prioritising front-line staff in the areas of customer service and motor tax. A Kilkenny woman has been appointed to the advisory board of Safefood, the all-island agency responsible for promoting food safety and healthy eating. Elaine Clohosey is originally from Kilmacow in County Kilkenny. She is a Technical Manager with BWG Foods and has worked for the company since 2004. As a Technical Manager on the Food Solutions team, she advises on food safety matters to more than 1,000 independent retailers across BWGs nationwide network of SPAR, EUROSPAR, MACE and Londis retailers. An Honours graduate of UCC, her qualifications also include Dip Dairy Science, BSc Food Business and MSc Food Retailing. She recently added an MSc in Food Safety Management from Technological University Dublin. I am very proud to be appointed to the Safefood Advisory Board and to join a team who have a passion about promoting food safety and providing nutritional advice across the island of Ireland, said Ms Clohosey. Through my active and enthusiastic contributions, I hope to support Safefood s work positively and constructively during my time on the Board. READ: MAGS URGES EVERYONE TO SUPPORT MYELOMA FUNDRAISER Dr Elaine Mooney has also been appointed to the board. She is a lecturer in the School of Home Economics at St Angelas College, Sligo and a Home Economics and Biology graduate of the college. She has an MSc in Food Science from UCD and a PhD from University of Ulster. Dr Mooney is also Director of the National Centre of Excellence for Home Economics at St Angela's College. Dr Elaine Mooney It is a great privilege to have been appointed to the Advisory Board of Safefood, said Dr Mooney. I am passionate about nutrition and healthy eating, and I intend to use my expertise in food education to assist the organisations important work of promoting a better understanding of healthy eating across the island. Safefood Chief Executive Officer Dr Gary A Kearney said: We are very pleased to welcome Dr Mooney and Ms Clohosey to Safefoods Advisory Board. They each bring a wealth of experience and expertise and I am certain that their input will be invaluable to our organisation. Safefoods Advisory Board is a broadly representative group which provides strategic advice to the chief executive and senior management team. The board meets every six weeks. These appointments bring the total current membership of the Board to ten. Appointments to the board are nominated by Ministers in both Ireland and Northern Ireland and ratified by the North South Ministerial Council. Safefood has no role in this process. 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. By Yi Whan-woo Korea is seeing an accelerated increase in its exports, prompting speculation that it could overtake Japan in exports for the first time this year. The gap in total value of exports between the two countries shrank to a record low of $3.5 billion in the first half of the year. It previously amounted to about $160 billion in 2018 and then nearly halved to $85 billion in 2023. Such a narrowed gap comes as Koreas outbound shipments have been on the upswing, whereas Japans have been stagnant. For instance, Koreas exports in the first six months of this year reached $334.8 billion, up 9 percent from the previous year. Over the cited period, Japans exports slid 3.6 percent to $338.3 billion. In July, Korea extended its winning streak in exports for the 11th consecutive month as outbound shipments jumped 13.9 percent year-on-year to $57.4 billion, according to data from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. Semiconductors and other key sales items are driving robust exports. Exports of chips rose 50.4 percent year-on-year to $11.2 billion in July, marking an increase for the ninth straight month and maintaining a growth rate above 50 percent for the fourth consecutive month. Outbound shipment of display products went up 2.4 percent year-on-year, while those of computers and mobile devices climbed 61.6 percent and 53.6 percent, respectively. Under the circumstances, Korea certainly has a chance to overtake Japan in exports as the prospect remains bright, said Lee Ji-pyeong, a professor at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies. He noted that Koreas exports are poised to set a record of $700 billion this year, whereas Japans have been decreasing after peaking at $823.6 billion in 2011. In terms of rankings of the worlds largest exporters, Korea was in 12th in 2008 and then moved up to seventh in 2010 and again to sixth in 2015. It has been moving between sixth and eighth ever since. Meanwhile, Japan has remained unchanged in fifth place since 2019 after being overtaken by the Netherlands in the same year. And Korea outpacing Japan in exports means it can claim the No. 5 spot if it reaches export goals as planned for this year, Lee said. Trade experts deem that the Japanese central banks shift to a hawkish monetary policy after sustaining a weak yen for years can positively influence Koreas exports. They noted Korea and Japan competed in multiple export items, such as cars and steel, although such competition has been getting less severe in recent years. In that regard, a weak yen allowed Japan to sell its goods at more competitive prices than Koreas, and this may not be the case now that the era of the weak yen appears to be ending, an expert said. Financial Services Commission Chairman Kim Byoung-hwan called for support for technology firms Tuesday. "The government and the entire financial sector must fully support the high-tech industry in ways in which the firms can actually feel the support in their line of work since the very future of our economy depends on securing the competitiveness of high-tech industries," Kim told a meeting with business leaders. "We will directly listen to the difficulties facing our businesses and continue working to come up with the most effective support measures," he added. The government launched support programs for semiconductor manufacturers and other tech businesses totaling 20 trillion won ($14.6 billion) combined earlier in the year. (Yonhap) North Korea criticized Germany for its recent entry into the United States-led U.N. Command (UNC), calling it an act of ruining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, its state media said Tuesday. On Friday, Germany formally joined the multinational mechanism overseeing the armistice of the 1950-53 Korean War as the 18th official member state. The North "strongly denounces Germany's entry into the United Nations Command, regarding it as an act of wrecking peace and stability on the Korean peninsula and aggravating the situation," a spokesperson of Pyongyang's foreign ministry said in a release carried by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). "Germany's improper act is again reminiscent of its inglorious past in which it plunged mankind into the bloodbath of the Second World War and inflicted untold misfortune and pain upon mankind in the last century," the ministry said, warning that Berlin "will be held wholly responsible for all the consequences." The North claimed that Washington is attempting to revive the function of the command "which should have been extinct in the last century" in a move toward the Asian version of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to deter the North and its neighboring countries. The North then vowed to "take more thorough measures for bolstering up its self-defensive capabilities" to deter the current "ever-escalating military confrontation" on the peninsula, according to the KCNA. (Yonhap) A memorial wall engraved with the names of Ethiopian veterans of the 1950-53 Korean War has been established in Addis Ababa to honor their service in supporting South Korea, Seoul's veterans ministry said Tuesday. An unveiling ceremony for the wall, bearing the names of 2,482 veterans, took place at the Korean War memorial in the Ethiopian capital Monday, attended by Veterans Minister Kang Jung-ai, according to the ministry. Ethiopia was among the 22 countries that sent troops or medical support to South Korea under the U.N. flag during and after the three-year war against North Korean aggression, which ended in a truce, not a peace treaty. The ministry said the wall was belatedly installed at the existing memorial site due to the loss of records of the veterans under Ethiopia's past communist regime. In July last year, the governments of Ethiopia and South Korea, alongside the Ethiopian veterans association of the Korean War, began compiling and verifying records to confirm a list of 2,482 veterans. The ministry plans to conduct further research to add more names to the wall as the Ethiopian veterans association has said more than 3,500 troops took part in the war. (Yonhap) By Kwak Yeon-soo National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik urged the government, Tuesday, to disclose the entire process of negotiations surrounding UNESCO's listing of Japans Sado mines, a controversial site linked to the wartime forced labor of Koreans. The government, which had initially opposed the listing, agreed to Japans inscription of the complex of mines on the Japanese island of Sado on UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites after accepting Tokyos promise to reflect the whole history of Korean forced labor at the site through exhibitions and an annual memorial service. Woo pointed out that Japan has been repeatedly using the phrase laborers from the Korean Peninsula in what he sees as an attempt to deny forced labor. This comes despite an agreement reached by Korea and Japan concerning the site, where thousands of Koreans were subjected to forced labor during Japan's colonial rule from 1910 to 1945. I hope the government takes this as an opportunity to ask Japan to provide a list of victims of forced labor during wartime. Many were forcibly taken as military and non-military laborers. However, their whereabouts, including where they were taken, for how long they were forced to labor and how they sacrificed are unknown, Woo said in a statement. Our government placed significance on Japans promise to hold a memorial service. But shouldnt we first check who are being commemorated? We should request Japan hand over the list of Korean forced laborers and bank books of Korean workers held by the Japan Post Bank, documents that can confirm the reality of forced labor. His statement comes a week after the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) criticized the government for engaging in treacherous diplomacy, accusing the Yoon Suk Yeol administration of aiding Japans efforts to erase its colonial past. Yoon has sought to improve ties with Japan to strengthen the South Korea-U.S.-Japan trilateral cooperation amid heightened tensions with North Korea, Russia and China. It is extremely rare for an Assembly speaker to address a diplomatic issue, especially alone, but Woo insisted that the Assembly has an obligation to clarify concerns regarding the governments handling of foreign affairs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said there has been requests for explanations and data from the National Assembly before and after the negotiations surrounding UNESCO listing of Japans Sado mines. We will review the Assemblys stance carefully and provide further explanation if required, a ministry official said, adding that specific details of the negotiations are confidential. South Korea's top military officer on Tuesday called for "stern" action in the event of a North Korean provocation as he visited a command overseeing border island units in the Yellow Sea, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said. JCS Chairman Adm. Kim Myung-soo renewed the call at the North West Islands Defense Command in Hwaseong, 45 kilometers south of Seoul, citing increasing North Korean threats, according to his office. The visit came two days after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un attended a ceremony commemorating the transfer of 250 tactical ballistic missile launchers to frontline military units. "As a military that takes bold and stern action, (we) must instill fear in the enemy and trust in the people," Kim said, according to a release. The North West Islands Defense Command is in charge of operations of troops stationed on the border islands near the Northern Limit Line (NLL) in the Yellow Sea. Marine Corps Commandant Lt. Gen. Kim Kye-hwan doubles as the command's head. Waters near the NLL have been a flashpoint between the two Koreas, where three bloody naval skirmishes took place in 1999, 2002 and 2009. In March 2010, Pyongyang torpedoed a South Korean warship near the NLL, killing 46 sailors. The North also bombarded the border island of Yeonpyeong in November that year, killing two Marines and two civilians. (Yonhap) Korea Defense Intelligence Command slammed for lax discipline, poor operational readiness By Lee Hyo-jin South Korea's military intelligence command is facing increasing scrutiny following internal conflicts within its ranks, a revelation that came just days after an intelligence official was arrested for allegedly leaking military secrets to a Chinese national. These incidents raise serious concerns about lax discipline and poor operational readiness within the Korea Defense Intelligence Command (KDIC), especially at a time of increasing threats from North Korea, critics said Tuesday. According to military sources, a brigadier general from the KDIC recently filed a complaint with the Ministry of National Defense's Investigation Headquarters, accusing the intelligence commander, a major general, of assault and abuse of authority. In response, the major general has accused the brigadier general of insubordination. The identities of both officers have not been disclosed. The commander reportedly raised legal concerns in May about the brigadier general's intelligence activities, including the use of a civilian-owned facility for meetings. The brigadier general allegedly dismissed these concerns, accusing the major general of unnecessary interference as a "non-expert." Tensions between the two escalated when the commander reportedly instructed his aide to monitor the brigadier generals movements in the weeks that followed. The situation deteriorated further in June when the commander allegedly threw a document folder at the brigadier general, prompting him to file an assault complaint. In response to these allegations, the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) criticized the incident, citing the internal disputes within the secretive military branch as evidence of deteriorating discipline. "As Commander-in-Chief, President Yoon Suk Yeol must explain what actions are being taken to address such lax military discipline. It raises concerns that he has been talking about national security without implementing any concrete measures," said DPK spokesperson Choi Min-suk. The DPK also highlighted the severity of these revelations that surfaced amid ongoing spy allegations involving a KDIC official. Last Tuesday, the central military court issued an arrest warrant for a civilian employee on charges that include leaking military secrets, following a request from the military prosecution. The employee, whose identity has been withheld, is accused of providing a Chinese national of Korean ethnicity with confidential documents, including lists of both "white" and "black" agents operating abroad. The leaked documents reportedly contained the real names, ages and locations of those agents. The KDIC manages a network of black agents, some of whom operate under covert identities or as diplomats in foreign countries. While it is unclear whether the Chinese national is linked to North Korea, South Korea's intelligence agents in China are known to conduct operations related to North Korea through informants within the country. The allegations became public in late July when several defense committee lawmakers reported receiving information from unspecified sources. The intelligence command later revealed that it had been aware of the issue since late April, which led to criticism over the delay in the investigation. "This is a major incident that could lead to the collapse of South Korea's human intelligence capabilities. I don't think the military is taking this seriously enough," Yang Uk, a military expert at the Asan Institute of Policy Studies, told The Korea Times. Yang suggested that the current internal probe by the military should be expanded to include law enforcement authorities for a more thorough investigation, particularly given emerging speculation that the information may have been leaked to North Korea. The leak has had immediate consequences. Several agents overseas, including those in China, are said to have abruptly returned to Seoul following the breach. Local media reports suggested that some informants in North Korea connected to South Koreas undercover agents may have been executed as a result of the leak. Furthermore, the scandal has exposed significant loopholes in South Korea's anti-espionage law. Currently, the law defines espionage as "activities aimed at benefiting an enemy," with penalties including death, life sentence, or imprisonment for more than seven years. However, the law specifically identifies North Korea as the sole enemy state, meaning espionage benefiting other countries is not covered. As such, the existing law may not adequately address the recent case, as the KDIC official is suspected of leaking information to a Chinese citizen. In response, lawmakers from both conservative and liberal parties have proposed revisions to expand the definition of espionage to include foreign countries or foreign organizations. Similar bills were proposed during the 21st Assembly, but failed, mainly due to concerns from the Office of Court Administration (OCA) about potential negative impacts on South Koreas relations with foreign countries if such bills were passed. Police have referred a man to the prosecution Tuesday on charges of slashing a random neighbor to death with a Japanese longsword last week. The 37-year-old assailant, surnamed Baek, brandished a 75-centimeter Japanese blade at the entrance of his apartment complex in Seoul's northern Eunpyeong district on July 29 and killed the neighbor, who was smoking outdoors at the time. The victim, a 43-year-old father of two sons aged 4 and 9, did not know the assailant personally. During the police investigation, Baek said he committed the crime because he believed the victim was a spy shadowing him. On his way to attend a court hearing on an arrest warrant sought for him last week, Baek also denied he was in a state of mental vulnerability, and said he was in his right mind when he committed the crime. Police said Baek tested negative in a brief reagent test, and they have requested the National Forensic Service for a detailed examination. (Yonhap) Drug ring run by college students suggests depth of crisis: experts By Jung Min-ho The mastermind behind a university drug ring busted by authorities recently wasnt a stereotypical drug dealer. The graduate of Yonsei University, one of the most prestigious Korean schools, was enrolled in a masters program at KAIST, another elite institution, when he opened a social club three years ago. Run by himself and other university students, most of whom were in their 20s, the organization soon turned into a criminal platform where LSD, meth, ketamine and other illicit drugs were consumed and traded. Experts believe this case, announced by the prosecution on Monday, suggests the dire state Korea is in that the drug epidemic has hit almost every corner of the country. They say this alarming trend will likely continue unless the authorities take a drastic step to address the issue. According to the Seoul Southern District Prosecutors Office, the founder of the club and five other members were indicted on charges of selling and taking drugs for about one year from December 2022. Eight others who only used the drugs will not stand trial after prosecutors decided not to press charges on the condition that they take part in state-designated rehab programs. The club was set up for social activities among university students in 2021. But the founder began to use it as a platform for his illegal business after taking illicit substances for the first time in November 2022, according to the prosecution. Using money from dealing drugs, the founder hosted parties and gatherings at luxury hotels, attracting around 300 members and making it the second-largest club of its kind nationwide. All this came to light late last year after he was apprehended over violent behavior under the apparent influence of illicit drugs at a hotel. Police and prosecutors eventually found the drug connections in his mobile phone, which led to the arrests of several key members. Unlike many other cases, the drug ring caught this time appears to have been operated by university students, which demonstrates the seriousness of the problem, Hwang Eui-gab, a professor of police administration at Kyonggi University, told The Korea Times on Tuesday. According to data from the prosecution, the number of drug offenses reported last year was 27,611, a record high and a significant increase from 18,395 in 2022. The problem was especially serious among teenagers, with the number of cases more than tripling to 1,477 from 481 during the period. This alarming trend will not subside unless the government takes drastic measures to stop it, Hwang said. With extended global networks, drugs today are far cheaper and easier to obtain, he added. Moreover, many young people seem to have a more positive view of marijuana and other drugs considered to be soft, he said. While enforcing the countrys drug laws strictly, the authorities should step up efforts to educate them. In response to the surging number of drug crimes, the Yoon Suk Yeol administration vowed to establish a government body dedicated to investigating such cases. But with the National Assembly remaining stalemated, there has been little progress. The Cabinet passed a motion Tuesday calling for parliamentary reconsideration of four bills aimed at changing the governance structure of public broadcasters. The motion, passed a week after the last of the four bills was railroaded by the opposition-controlled National Assembly, will be sent to President Yoon Suk Yeol. Should Yoon endorse it, the bills will be sent back to the Assembly for a revote. Three of the bills call for amending the Broadcasting Act, the Foundation for Broadcast Culture Act and the Korea Educational Broadcasting System Act to increase the number of board directors at public broadcasters KBS, MBC and EBS, respectively. The three were passed initially by the previous National Assembly, which was also controlled by the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), but vetoed by Yoon and then scrapped. The fourth bill calls for changing the rules governing the decision-making body at state broadcasting regulator Korea Communications Commission. The DPK has argued the bills will ensure the government cannot exercise its influence over broadcast media, while the ruling People Power Party has countered the bills are simply meant to increase the presence of pro-opposition figures on the boards of public broadcasters. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo criticized the opposition party for ignoring the reasons the government demanded the legislation's reconsideration last year and accused it of further violating the president's constitutionally guaranteed appointment powers by adding a rule that limits his ability to dismiss heads of public broadcasters. "Public broadcasting faces a critical moment of having to restore public trust by establishing its independence, fairness and public nature, in addition to making sweeping structural improvements in order to respond to the rapidly changing media environment," Han said during a Cabinet meeting before the motion was passed. "However, these amendment bills unilaterally passed by the opposition party raise concerns of further worsening public broadcasting's biased nature rather than leading its change and reform." (Yonhap) Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok on Tuesday unveiled policy measures for e-commerce vendors, as such vendors were hit by the recent payment delays of Qoo10-owned platforms TMON and WeMakePrice. Under the measures, the government will require e-commerce platforms to make payments to vendors within a specified date, Choi told a meeting with ruling party officials. The government will also require e-commerce platforms to separately manage money set to be paid to vendors, Choi said. As of last Thursday, the amount of delayed payments by the two platforms was estimated to reach 278.3 billion won ($203 million), but speculation suggests that this amount could escalate to as much as 1 trillion won if future payments are included. "It is possible that the extent of the damage may increase further when we consider the transactions for June and July, with their approaching settlement deadlines," Choi said. During the meeting, the government and the ruling party said they agreed to provide liquidity of 500 billion won to the vendors of TMON and WeMakePrice. TMON and WeMakePrice have been accused of continuing their business dealings despite knowing that timely payments to vendors were impossible due to liquidity issues. (Yonhap) By Lee Hae-rin Seoul Cyber University signed a memorandum of understanding on a dual degree system with Vietnam's Posts and Telecommunications Institute of Technology (PTIT) on Friday. Dubbed the "2+2 multi-degree program," the dual degree system allows Vietnamese nationals in Korea to obtain degrees from both Seoul Cyber University and PTIT in the field of information and communication after two years of studies at each university. This makes Seoul Cyber University the first cyber university in the country to take the dual-degree initiative. PTIT, which signed the 2+2 agreement with Seoul Cyber University, is a four-year national university under the Ministry of Information and Communication of Vietnam. The institute is also cooperating with Samsung, LG and Naver through the development of human resources. Seoul Cyber University previously conducted a PTIT faculty and staff invitation training as part of the Korea-Vietnam IT Cooperation Project organized by the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and signed an international exchange business agreement for the digital transformation of university education in December 2023. For the agreement, Vietnamese Information and Communication Minister Nguyen Manh Hung and other officials from the Ministry of Information and Communication visited Seoul Cyber University in Seoul on Thursday for a ceremony celebrating the international cooperation between the two schools and to hold a forum-style meeting. "We hope that both schools can create synergy with each other through this agreement," Seoul Cyber University President Lee Eun-joo said. "Seoul Cyber University will continue to actively cooperate in exchanges and cooperation between the two schools." Seoul Cyber University is recruiting new and transferred students for the second half of the 2024 academic year until Aug. 14. Anyone with a high school diploma or higher can enter the university, and transfer studies only require students to meet their academic qualifications by grade. By Jung Da-hyun Philippine caregivers, who arrived in Korea, Tuesday, for a pilot project designed to supply foreign workers to domestic households as part of government efforts to help counter the nation's plunging birthrate, have expressed high expectations for cultural experiences and financial opportunities here. They are also optimistic about their new roles in Korean homes. "I studied marketing at a university in the Philippines. I want to make good memories in Korea," said Cailing Glory Masinag, a 32-year-old Filipino caregiver, speaking slowly but clearly in Korean to reporters. At around 7 a.m., 100 Filipino workers arrived at Incheon International Airport to take part in a pilot project initiated by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Ministry of Employment and Labor. In response to a decreasing number of domestic workers due to an aging society and the rising costs of child care, the city and the government have introduced foreign caregivers for the first time. The group of Filipino workers, dressed in blue uniforms symbolizing the Philippines, entered the arrival hall in three orderly groups. The uniforms were provided by the Philippine Employment Permit System. All caregivers, aged between 24 and 38, completed over 780 hours of training at a job training center in the Philippines and obtained government certification, according to the city government. Masinag, holding a certificate for domestic household work, shared that she studied Korean diligently before her arrival. "I came here because I wanted to learn more about Korean culture. When I found out I was accepted, many people in the Philippines congratulated me and envied me," she said. She noted that many Filipinos are eager to come to Korea. Masinag also expressed her financial aspirations, saying, "I want to make a lot of money in Korea and start a business in the Philippines. I want to help my family and pursue further graduate studies in the Philippines." Seoul residents using this service must pay a minimum wage of 9,860 won ($7.18) per hour. Households will pay 1.19 million won per month to hire Philippine caregivers for four hours a day and 2.38 million won for eight hours. When the pilot project was first announced, concerns were raised about its costs and the scope of caregivers' duties. However, the newly arrived Philippine caregivers expressed more anticipation than apprehension about life in Korea. According to a city government official, households participating in the pilot project expressed the highest demand for four-hour daily services over a six-month period. "There were many applications from double-income and multi-child households. It appears that families want to use care services for after children finish school and day care for the day," a city government official said. President Yoon Suk Yeol will grant special pardons to those convicted of livelihood-related crimes and others on the occasion of Liberation Day next week. Yoon is also expected to exempt administrative penalties levied on small and medium-sized firms to send a message on the government's commitment to reviving the economy in light of the challenging economic situation. The special presidential pardons will be the fifth of their kind since Yoon's inauguration in 2022. The pardons will be reviewed by a panel at the justice ministry on Thursday and sent to a Cabinet meeting for deliberation next Tuesday before they are finalized by Yoon. In Korea, the government has often granted special pardons to convicted politicians, business executives and other offenders at the start of a new year or around Liberation Day on Aug. 15 to reward good behavior and foster national harmony. (Yonhap) Seoul's education chief has filed a constitutional appeal over his alleged abuse of power in connection with the reinstatement of dismissed teachers years ago, saying such charges are excessively applied in the public service sector, officials said Tuesday. Cho Hee-yeon, superintendent of the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education, filed the petition with the Constitutional Court last week, claiming charges of abuse of power are too broadly applied in public service, according to the Seoul education office. By law, charges of abuse of authority are applied when a public official causes a person to perform a task that is outside of their duty. Cho was indicted in 2018 for allegedly abusing his power to reinstate five dismissed teachers, including former members of a teachers' labor union. In January, an appellate court upheld the lower court ruling and sentenced Cho to 1 and a half years in prison, suspended for two years, a decision that could strip Cho of his job if confirmed by the Supreme Court. By law, an education official with a confirmed conviction of a fine penalty or higher loses his job. Cho, who has appealed the decision to the top court, is awaiting the final decision. If the Supreme Court grants the request for a constitutional review, the trial will be put on hold until the decision is made by the Constitutional Court. It marks the second constitutional appeal filed by Cho after he asked for a review of the provision of the Educational Officials Act in March, which states that the process of hiring experienced public officials is to be done as prescribed by the presidential decree. (Yonhap) The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) said Tuesday it will propose a bill mandating a special counsel investigation into the military's response to a Marine's death after it was scrapped twice following President Yoon Suk Yeol's veto. The party has completed its review of the bill, to be proposed for the third time within a year, DPK floor spokesperson Yoon Jong-kun told reporters at the National Assembly. "As promised by Han Dong-hoon, leader of the People Power Party (PPP), we look forward to seeing discussions in any form within the party on the special probe bill," he said. The opposition-led bill calls for the appointment of a special counsel to look into allegations the presidential office and the defense ministry inappropriately interfered in the military's investigation into the death of Cpl. Chae, who was killed during a search mission for victims of heavy downpours in July 2023. A similar bill had initially passed through the previous National Assembly but was scrapped in a revote after President Yoon Suk Yeol vetoed it. The DPK proposed another bill after the new National Assembly came into office in late May but was also discarded last month following Yoon's veto. The PPP has argued adamantly against the bill, citing the need to first see the results of separate investigations by the police and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials. Declaring his bid for the PPP chief in June, Han called for a new bill that mandates a special counsel chosen by a "third party" to investigate the case to ensure more fairness. (Yonhap) President Yoon Suk Yeol instructed the government to take swift and preemptive responses to heightened volatility in the financial market, his office said Tuesday, refuting opposition criticisms over his vacationing despite a recent market rout. Korean stocks suffered the worst sell-off since late 2008 on Monday, along with its global peers, on growing fears over an economic recession in the United States, before rising more than 3 percent Tuesday. The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index gained 80.6 points, or 3.3 percent, to close at 2,522.15 on Tuesday, a turnaround from the 8.77 percent crash the previous session. "While on vacation, Yoon watched the global stock market rout on Monday and ordered officials to take measures in a swift manner," the presidential office said in a release. Yoon is currently on his summer vacation and traveling to regional areas. He also called for close and preemptive policy coordination among relevant institutions, and the presidential office activated a joint round-the-clock monitoring system, given rising concerns about the U.S. economic downturn and geopolitical risks surrounding the Middle East, it added. Earlier in the day, the Korean financial authorities said they are ready to take action against recent market jitters, stressing that the country maintains sound economic fundamentals. The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea has lashed out at Yoon and his office for doing nothing to ease the financial market. "Yoon and the presidential office seem to be far from alert. Yoon went on vacation even in such an emergency situation," Rep. Jin Sung-Joon, the DP's policy chief, said. "The president should direct the emergency response system, as the stock market lost 330 trillion won ($239.25 billion) in market capitalization over the past two trading sessions and 140 small investors are in jeopardy," Jin said. (Yonhap) By Gabrielle Park In the United States, anti-racist organizations want to eliminate standardized exams, such as the SAT. However, if we define racism as racial separation and inequality, then the anti-racism movement has had mixed effects. In my community, Orange County, California, many Asians say that non-Asians have different values in education. However, what they are really saying is that non-Asians have lower test scores. The anti-racism movement to solve this problem is eliminating the use of standardized tests entirely. The National Education Association, the largest labor union in the U.S. comprised of school staff, and the policy advocacy FairTest say the SAT is racially biased, noting that the tests are made from the experiences of white middle to upper-class people. They lobbied prestigious colleges to no longer require SAT scores, and the University of California system decided not to consider it in undergraduate admissions. However, eliminating standardized exams does not promote racial integration and equality. In a March 2024 column, Why the SAT isnt racist, John McWhorter, associate professor of linguistics at Columbia University, finds that the SAT is in fact useful in demonstrating students abilities regardless of their economic backgrounds. Eliminating the SAT increases the challenge of identifying students who would do well at prestigious universities. Moreover, replacing standardized exams with a holistic approach admits more students with different levels of preparation, leaving some students feeling mismatched and separated at selective schools. From a personal perspective, I, too, see this happening. I attend Oxford Academy, a highly selective middle-high school that traditionally had an admissions process consisting of submitting grades, state testing scores, and taking a special entrance exam. However, now aiming for a more holistic approach, its policy has been modified to include an interview and a personal statement. Proponents claim that eliminating state testing scores and the entrance exam will make the admissions fairer, reducing students applying for test prep courses. Regardless, many Asian students at Oxford notice that non-Asians are struggling. Ive also heard non-Asian students say things like, Im not smart. Only Asians can study well. My school is trying to promote racial equality but it doesnt help reduce inequality or separation. By deemphasizing exams, Oxford admits students who struggle to catch up. But instead of helping students who may be less prepared, Oxford basically leaves them to sink or swim. Instead of viewing standardized tests as racist, we should use them as a tool to challenge and improve all students and to recognize and support students who are potentially mismatched. Frequent standardized testing can show students what theyre good at and what they need to work on. Education writer Paul Tough, in November 2006, wrote in his column in the New York Times that KIPP Public Charter Schools frequently test their mostly low-income, racial minority students to identify areas for improvement. We should follow the same strategy and help all students to prepare for the Oxford Academy entrance exam. Exam scores help identify non-Asian students who will most likely do well at Oxford. If their scores are significantly below that of Asian students, we should create programs, such as a buddy-buddy system, to help non-Asian students catch up and become friends with Asian students. Whatever our individual score or ethnic background, we, Oxford students, should all encourage each other to try our best and make good friends during our time at Oxford. Go Patriots! Gabrielle Park is a rising 8th grader at Oxford Academy in California. By Esther Kim Death is the mother of beauty, the American poet Wallace Stevens writes in Sunday Morning, his lengthy, philosophical poem about paradise. His point confused me as a 20-year-old college student. Wasnt a deathless heaven what everyone pined after? Our professor, Frank Bidart, explained the meaning of that troubling line, which I paraphrase: Stevens meant mortality makes life and art beautiful. In a place without death then, is there no beauty? I believe in a corollary. Boredom is the mother of creativity. Because boredom means time. And time in this life to create, to think is a luxury, a privilege. This occurred to me during "the Crash." I needed to get moving on a book project, so I decided this summer to attempt to copy author Kazuo Ishiguros creative process, which he and his wife carved out together and he describes in great detail for the British newspaper The Guardian. The Crash is how Ishiguro wrote "Remains of the Day" a brilliant, restrained novel about an English butlers heartbreaking, misguided loyalty to his lordly employer in four weeks. Back in the summer of 1987, Ishiguro cleared his diary. With the agreement of his wife, Lorna, who took over his household chores for one month, he wrote every day from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Ishiguro took an hour off for lunch and two hours for dinner. He did not see, let alone answer, any mail or go near the phone. (Today, I suppose you must avoid email, text messages, Kakao messages, Instagram and more, on top of mail.) The idea is to "reach a mental state in which my fictional world was more real to me than the actual one," he explains. It's like method acting method writing. Tell yourself the story. Let it contradict itself. Just get the bones down. I attempted the Crash for one week, not one month, because I have no Lorna. (I am Lorna?) I began to understand that boredom, intentional boredom, is a necessary prerequisite for creative writing. The constant, daily stimulation from video and audio today floods our senses and prevents us from imagining other worlds. I found myself staring at the walls, deeply bored, until I began to see a whitewashed paint splotch that resembled a swimming fish. I didn't turn on the television once, and my mind began to conjure up characters, plots and relationships filling up that space. After the Crash, I found a similar pause again unintentionally during a hospital stay for three nights on a strict no food, no water regimen. Consider how many writers were sickly. As a sickly child, Victor Hugo was confined to the bed. Marcel Prousts many maladies led him to meditate on madeleines from his sick bed. Yi Sang suffered from tuberculosis. "On Being Ill," a slim volume that pairs Virginia Woolfs essay with her mother Julia Stephens, explores this relationship. (A practicing nurse, Woolf's mother penned "Notes from Sick Rooms" and passed away when Woolf was a child.) In "On Being Ill," Woolf argues that literature concerns itself with the life of the mind, yet life resides in the body too. Why shouldn't the body, its foibles and feebles, also be the subject of literature? After all, we humans aren't just brain boxes with eyeballs. Bedrest in particular prompts daydreaming, which is another way of describing writing fiction, because illness forces a bedridden person to lie alone in boredom and to study that tenuous line between life and death. The break in rhythms of a "productive" life the pain, the solitude, the boredom are breeding grounds for imagination. This, too, is coupled with a heightened sensitivity. Life is less casual. It demands vigilance. Anything from dust to a blood clot could cause havoc. Life shrinks to your room, and the nurses and the physician enter through the door like a stage play. A patient must be patient. Life removed from society feels like sensory fasting, so when I finally took that elevator down into the busy lobby, it was thrilling. There were small lessons from that one week I attempted to write fiction and the week I fasted from food. When I tasted a banana for the first time, I couldn't believe how grossly sugary it was. I couldn't finish it. I was surprised and gladdened to find my sense of taste had grown heightened and sensitive. Similarly, if we occasionally disconnect from the barrage of video auto-plays and instant messaging, we might hear ourselves think. Try to fast. Go an hour or a week without the internet or screens to rest the body and the mind. Walk in nature, wherever that is, and leave the phone at home or turn it off in your pocket. Feel its weight as a metallic, dead object. Ill close the laptop at dusk and walk outside to the nearby stream, watching the neighborhood bats swoop and dance above the stream, feeding on night-flying insects. Trying to pay attention to how the waning sunlight shines through their fine membraned wings, paperbag brown. Esther Kim is a freelance writer based in Taiwan. She was a senior manager at the Asian American Writers Workshop in New York and Tilted Axis Press in London and a publicist at Columbia University Press. She writes about culture and the Koreas. Authorities, market should retain calm, employ contingency plans South Korea's stock markets, which had been rattled the previous day by fears of a potential U.S. economic slowdown and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, rebounded, Tuesday, providing relief to investors and policymakers. The main KOSPI index recovered 3.3 percent to close at 2,522.1, Tuesday, after a sharp drop of 8.77 percent the day before. The secondary Kosdaq also gained 6 percent to finish at 722.87, following an 11.3 percent decline the previous day. The steep losses had prompted authorities to activate circuit breakers for both the KOSPI and Kosdaq, marking the first use of those measures in four years and five months. With the markets rebounding, the prevailing view is that a recession in the world's largest economy is not imminent. Financial authorities in Korea moved swiftly on Tuesday to urge calm, emphasizing that the recent decline was confined to the stock market and not reflective of broader economic conditions. They suggested that Seoul should treat this scare as a warning and focus on strengthening its economic fundamentals. Fears of a possible recession and stock sell-offs had already been evident in U.S. markets late the previous week. The situation intensified with the U.S. Labor Department's announcement on Friday, which revealed that the American economy added just 114,000 jobs in July, marking the second-worst performance in the past 43 months. Additionally, U.S. unemployment rose to 4.3 percent, the highest level in nearly three years. The situation was further compounded by disappointing quarterly earnings from major U.S. tech companies, which even sparked concerns about a potential "AI bubble." Finance Minister Choi Byung-mok stressed in a meeting with Bank of Korea Gov. Rhee Chang-yong, Kim Byoung-hwan, Financial Services Commission chairman and others, Tuesday, that the government has policy tools necessary to deal with any contingencies. In the U.S., there is significant criticism of the Federal Reserve for missing the optimal timing to implement a rate cut, with many observers anticipating a substantial 0.5 percentage point reduction. Some have even called for an earlier, emergency cut. The BOK will likely face pressure to align its policies with the Fed's moves. However, the central bank faces a challenging dilemma with rising housing prices and increasing household debt. The Korean government also bears some responsibility for delaying the implementation of the second-stage stress-based debt-to-service ratio for loans. The best course of action would be to proceed with the planned implementation in September. Policymakers need to address the real estate and housing market more proactively and move beyond their current complacency. As the U.S. has re-emerged as Korea's largest export market, its economic slowdown and skepticism about the artificial intelligence sector could complicate the recovery of Korean semiconductors. Korea Inc. has been struggling post-pandemic, with the economy contracting by 0.2 percent in the second quarter of this year. The government must act decisively and address both external and internal factors impacting the economy. One of its most pressing tasks is to manage the heated housing sector. Policymakers, known for their elite backgrounds, need to develop a plan to stabilize housing prices while minimizing negative impacts. Meanwhile, the National Assembly must put an end to the cycle of partisan conflict, where the opposition's slew of impeachment and special counsel bills are met with filibusters from the ruling party and presidential vetoes. With new leaderships established in both the ruling People Power Party and the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, bipartisan cooperation is essential to prioritize the nation's economic stability. By Chyung Eun-ju and Joel Cho By now, everyone is aware of the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and its integration into various aspects of our daily lives. With the proliferation of AI, we have seen significant improvements in efficiency in handling tasks and, for various market segments, an improvement in the professional quality of products and services. However, in the data-driven world we live in today, the use of AI by corporations has only intensified the ever-growing concerns regarding privacy and data protection. Considering this new reality, it is important and interesting to note the measures being recently taken by data protection authorities in Korea and Brazil to regulate the AI systems used by big data corporations, as these measures serve as examples to follow on the otherwise unregulated advancement of AI technologies. Korea's Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) recently made headlines by imposing a $1.4 million fine on AliExpress for privacy and data protection breaches. The PIPC uncovered that AliExpress had transferred Korean customers' data to foreign sellers without proper consent, as required by Korean privacy laws regarding international data transfer. Furthermore, the PIPC is also scrutinizing another Chinese e-commerce giant, Temu, for similar privacy concerns. The PIPC's actions send a clear message that, regardless of its origin, companies that treat personal data must comply with the nation's stringent data protection regulations. On the other side of the globe, Brazil's National Data Protection Authority (ANPD) has recently taken significant steps against Big Tech players like Meta and X, formerly Twitter, relating to the improper use of users' personal data to train their respective proprietary AI tools. The ANPD suspended Meta's new privacy policy, which basically allowed the company to use users' public posts to train its AI models. This decision was driven by concerns over the potential risks to users' privacy, especially minors, and Meta's failure to adequately inform users about these changes and their right to opt out, which are all requirements by the Brazilian data protection law. Meta's situation in Brazil is not isolated, as the ANPD has also begun investigating X for similar reasons. The ANPD has initiated an investigation against X, due to the collection and treatment of its user data to also train its new AI, known as Grok, without properly notifying its users. The ANPD sent an official notice to the company requesting clarifications after finding out that the new data collection option for AI training was quietly added to the platform's settings without providing clear information or instructions on how users could opt out of this form of treatment. This conduct constitutes a violation of Brazilian data protection law, particularly concerning the lack of transparency and information and the users' right to decide and oppose the collection and treatment of their personal data. So how does all of this recent news regarding measures taken by Korean and Brazilian data authorities relate to AI? We believe that the actions taken by both the PIPC and the ANPD weave a common thread of leveraging existing data protection laws to regulate the use of AI by big data companies. This approach, whether intentional or not, is particularly significant in the current landscape we stand in regarding AI technology, where comprehensive AI-specific regulations are still embryotic and lacking. Data protection laws in both Korea and Brazil require companies to adopt measures to guarantee that the data subjects are informed and are given control over their personal data, especially ensuring transparency about data usage and mechanisms for users to exercise their rights over their data. By enforcing these requirements, data protection authorities can effectively prevent the misuse of personal data for AI training purposes, which could lead to unprecedented consequences. The implications of these regulatory strategies may extend beyond the borders of Korea and Brazil, as they can be replicated in other countries grappling with similar challenges with the rampant growth of AI. As AI technology evolves and its applications become more pervasive, it is crucial to have robust safeguards in place to protect individuals' privacy and data rights. Moreover, these actions of the PIPC and the ANPD demonstrate that data protection authorities can play a pivotal role in the broader governance of AI. They can ensure that the development and exploitation of AI technologies are conducted following ethical and responsible guidelines, by holding companies accountable for their data practices. While the use of data protection laws to regulate AI seems to be a good interim measure for the reality we live in today, it should not be a substitute for comprehensive AI-specific regulations, since AI technologies are not only limited to data protection issues. So, the current data protection laws are insufficient to address all the different issues and concerns that AI technology poses. As we move forward, it is crucial that more robust regulatory frameworks that safeguard individuals' rights and promote ethical AI development be issued. The lessons from Korea and Brazil serve as a powerful reminder that data protection is not just about privacy, it is about protecting the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals in an increasingly digital world. Chyung Eun-ju (ejchyung@snu.ac.kr) is a marketing analyst at Career Step. She received a bachelor's degree in business from Seoul National University and a master's degree in marketing from Seoul National University. Joel Cho (joelywcho@gmail.com) is a practicing lawyer specializing in intellectual property and digital law. By Nam Hyun-woo The U.S. Department of Commerce announced Tuesday (Korea Standard Time) that it will provide up to $450 million in incentives and $500 million in loans to SK hynix in return for the chipmakers construction of a memory packaging plant for artificial intelligence (AI) products and an advanced packaging R&D facility in Indiana. In a press release, the commerce department said it signed a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) with SK hynix to provide up to $450 million in proposed federal incentives under the CHIPS and Science Act. In addition to the proposed direct funding, the U.S. will offer up to $500 million in proposed loans to SK hynix under the non-binding PMT. The U.S. will also provide tax credits of up to 25 percent of the company's capital expenditures in the country. The grants are in response to SK hynix's commitment in April to invest approximately $3.87 billion in West Lafayette, Indiana, to build a memory packaging facility and an R&D center. The facility will feature advanced semiconductor packaging lines designed to mass-produce the next generation of high-bandwidth memory (HBM), which is crucial for powering graphics processing units (GPUs) used in AI processors. SK hynix also plans to cooperate with local research institutions, including Purdue University, to research and develop HBM chips. SK hynix now leads the global competition in high-bandwidth memory (HBM), supplying chips for the majority of Nvidias GPU products. "Todays historic announcement with SK hynix would further solidify Americas AI hardware supply chain in a way no other country on earth can match, with every major player in advanced semiconductor manufacturing and packaging building or expanding on our shores," U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said in the press release. "We deeply appreciate the U.S. Department of Commerces support and are excited to collaborate in seeing this transformational project fully realized," said SK hynix CEO Kwak Noh-jung. "We are moving forward with the construction of the Indiana production base, working with the State of Indiana, Purdue University and our U.S. business partners to ultimately supply leading-edge AI memory products from West Lafayette." SK hynix is the 15th company to win U.S. grants and loans under the 2022 CHIPS Act. Among those companies, Samsung Electronics is set to receive $6.4 billion in subsidies to build new foundry facilities in Texas. SK Telecom, a leading Korean mobile carrier, said Tuesday its second-quarter operating profit rose 16 percent from a year earlier on the robust performance of its overall business. Operating profit for the April-June period came to 537.5 billion won ($392 million), compared with 463.4 billion won a year ago, and sales increased 2.7 percent on-year to 4.42 trillion won, the company said in a regulatory filing. Net profit for the period inched up 0.7 percent to 350.2 billion won. The earnings exceeded market expectations. The average estimate of net profit by analysts stood at 346.2 billion won, according to a survey by Yonhap Infomax, the financial data firm of Yonhap News Agency. The Korean company said its mainstay mobile business continued to deliver a strong performance, with the proportion of fifth-generation communications network subscriptions surpassing 70 percent. The number of roaming service subscribers also increased 37 percent to 1.23 million in the second quarter from a year ago. Sales from the enterprise unit climbed 11 percent on-year to 434.2 billion won, and sales from data centers jumped 20.5 percent to 59.5 billion won. Revenue from the cloud business also advanced 28 percent to 39.6 billion won. SK Telecom said it will work to further strengthen its competitiveness in the artificial intelligence (AI) business, including AI data centers and AI services, in the second half. Since announcing its vision to become a global AI company last year, SK Telecom has made a series of investments in AI-related firms. The company invested $20 million in Lambda, a graphics processing unit cloud provider in the United States, $10 million in AI search engine Perplexity and $200 million in AI data center solutions company Smart Global Holdings, this year. In a conference call, SK Telecom's chief financial officer, Kim Yang-seob, said the company aims to achieve over 60 billion won in sales this year with its AI solutions for the public, financial and manufacturing sectors. The company also plans to test its personal AI assistant service in the global market later this year in collaboration with Perplexity. It currently operates an AI assistant service, named A. (pronounced "A dot"), in Korea. The service had 4.55 million users as of end-June, according to the company. Shares in SK Telecom fell 0.19 percent to 51,800 won on the main Seoul bourse Tuesday, underperforming the broader Korea Composite Stock Price Index's 3.3 percent gain. (Yonhap) The government will begin providing financial support this week to e-commerce vendors hit by the recent payment delays of Qoo10-owned TMON and WeMakePrice, officials said Tuesday. Earlier in the day, government and ruling party officials agreed to provide liquidity of some 500 billion won ($365 million) in support for small vendors on the two e-commerce platforms. Starting Friday, the Industrial Bank of Korea and the Korea Credit Guarantee Fund will receive applications for a liquidity program that will provide over 300 billion won in credit guarantees at a preferential rate of 3.9 percent, according to the Financial Services Commission. An additional 200 billion won in low-interest loans will also be offered to small businesses facing payment delays starting Friday, it added. Such businesses may also apply for an up to one-year extension on their existing loans beginning Wednesday. The emergency support measures were announced late last month after the two e-commerce platforms, owned and operated by Singapore-based Qoo10, failed to make due payments to their vendors since as early as May due to what many observers believe were "aggressive merger deals." Qoo10 founder and CEO Ku Young-bae has acknowledged that the company had used funds from TMON and WeMakePrice to acquire the U.S. online shopping platform Wish, but claimed the money has since been returned. The financial regulator warned the damage from delayed payments may continue to grow, surpassing 1 trillion won, as payment deadlines for the two e-commerce platforms' transactions in June and July approach. Financial Minister Choi Sang-mok promised a wide-range of regulation reforms to prevent a recurrence of such payment delays in a government-ruling party policy coordination meeting held earlier in the day. For instance, the government will seek to revise related regulations to reduce the amount of time allowed for delayed payments by e-commerce platforms from the current 60 days, while also requiring them to keep sufficient funds for their delayed payments, according to Choi. Also, those that issue prepaid e-coupons and gift cards will be required to maintain 100 percent of their issued amount, a move aimed at enabling immediate and full refunds when necessary. TMON and WeMakePrice are said to have sold massive amounts of gift cards at discounted prices, but no refunds for unused cards or vouchers have been made, partly due to the lack of funds at both the online platforms and issuing companies. (Yonhap) Kakao Pay, the online payment unit of Korean social media giant Kakao, said Tuesday it swung to a net profit in the second quarter from a net loss a year earlier thanks to higher sales. Net profit for the three months ending in June came to 626 million won ($455,067), compared with a loss of 6.2 billion won a year ago, the company said in a regulatory filing. Its sales rose 24.6 percent to 185.5 billion won during the period, and its operating loss narrowed to 7.3 billion won from 12.6 billion won a year earlier. The company said its sales increased in the three-month period through June, driven by the growth of its offline and overseas payment businesses, as well as its financial services business. Revenue from the payment service unit climbed 12 percent on-year to 121.4 billion won in the second quarter, and sales from the financial services unit jumped 60 percent to 55.2 billion won. Kakao Pay's securities subsidiary saw the combined value of stock transactions soar 74 percent on-year to 12 trillion won, with the number of overseas stock market transactions, in particular, shooting up 256 percent. Its insurance subsidiary also attracted more than 1.5 million subscribers for its travelers' insurance, the company said. (Yonhap) N. Korea likely to send troops to Ukraine in support of Russia: S. Korea's defense chief DL, Bando develop technologies to extinguish battery fires more quickly By Park Jae-hyuk Construction firms are quickly adopting new technologies to prevent fires caused by electric vehicles (EVs) from spreading in underground parking garages. Their move comes as more buildings have banned EVs from entering their underground parking garages due to growing fears of a fire similar to one that occurred, Thursday, caused by a Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 electric sedan equipped with a battery from Chinas Farasis Energy. DL E&C is exploring the introduction of its own fire extinguishing system for EV fires in the underground parking garages of its e-Pyeonhansesang apartment complexes. Once the central control system detects a fire, the system deploys an extinguishing machine to move beneath the burning EV. The machine then drills a hole under the car's battery pack within two minutes and sprays water to put out the fire, typically within 10 minutes. The construction firm developed the system in April in partnership with Tanktech, a small- to medium-sized enterprise that supplies products to Hyundai Motor and fire stations. We expect the technology to dispel worries over fires caused by EVs, a DL E&C official said. Bando E&C developed its own system in 2021 to address fires caused by EVs. This system is set to be installed at Naepo New Town Bando U.Bora Mark Edition in Hongseong County, South Chungcheong Province, as well as in other buildings. The system combines fire covers with ventilation fans. The construction firm explained that lightweight fire covers placed near EV chargers help extinguish fires more quickly. Additionally, ventilation fans remove toxic gases from underground parking garages as soon as sensors detect a fire. The facilities make our apartments more convenient and safer, a Bando E&C official said. Samsung C&T decided last year to install fireproof walls around three sides of EV parking zones as part of the redevelopment of Gwacheon Jugong Complex 10 into Raemian One Majesty in Gyeonggi Province. Hyundai E&C and Daewoo E&C have also implemented fireproof walls in EV parking and charging zones to comply with government guidelines. These measures are part of a broader effort to prevent the spread of fires caused by EVs in underground parking garages. However, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will alleviate concerns about EVs in underground parking garages, especially in light of a recent fire involving a Kia EV6 SUV that was recharging at a parking tower in Geumsan County, South Chungcheong Province, Tuesday. Recently, LG Display, SK hynix, and KT requested that EV drivers avoid parking their cars in the underground garages of their company buildings. Additionally, an increasing number of apartment complexes have implemented bans on EVs in their underground parking garages. Battery industry suffers most amid sluggish EV demand By Nam Hyun-woo Seven out of 10 manufacturing businesses in Korea said they have been affected by or expect negative impacts from China's dumping of its stockpiled products, a survey showed, Tuesday, warning that this trend may persist for the long term. According to the survey by the Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), 27.6 percent of 2,228 manufacturing companies in Korea said they are affected by China's low-price exports. Among the respondents, 42.1 percent said they have yet to experience negative impacts from such practices but expect to in the future. The KCCI highlighted that China's increasing product stockpiles are driving the country's companies toward aggressive low-price strategies. It noted that this trend may persist for an extended period if China's inventories continue to grow amid the country's sluggish economic recovery. According to the National Bureau of Statistics of China, the inventory ratio of finished goods in China was 1.68 percent in November 2023 as companies began exporting the products accumulated during the COVID-19 pandemic at reduced prices. However, the ratio rose quickly to 4.67 percent in June this year, as China's economic slowdown protracts. Among Korean industries, battery-related companies complained of hardships the most, as Chinese firms' low-price strategies are coupled with the global slowdown in electric vehicle demand. In the survey, 61.5 percent of companies doing business related to secondary batteries said they were already affected by Chinese firms' dumping and 23.1 percent cast worries over future impacts. Along with the battery industry, 46.4 percent of textile and apparel businesses said they were affected, followed by cosmetics with 40.6 percent and steelmaking with 35.2 percent. "Korean companies file five to eight anti-dumping cases against foreign imports annually, but we've already seen six cases filed in the first half of this year alone," KCCI research division head Kang Seog-gu said. "As more cases of global trade disputes are being reported, the Korean government's approach to address trade disputes needs to be reformed." By Park Jae-hyuk The retail industry has recently joined the trend of ordering executives to come to the office on Saturdays or Sundays, amid declining consumption and intensifying competition with Chinese e-commerce firms. BGF Retail, the operator of CU convenience stores, has held executive meetings on Saturdays since July 13. The decision was made after the company posted 32.6 billion won ($23.7 million) in first-quarter operating profit, down 11.9 percent from a year earlier. The convenience store operators second-quarter operating profit also dropped by 2.4 percent year-on-year to 76.2 billion won. However, the retailer denied speculation about being in emergency mode, saying that its decision to hold executive meetings on Saturdays is intended to boost communication. It also explained that its non-executive employees will continue to work five days a week. Our executives will discuss strategies to cope with uncertain business environments and rapidly changing trends in an informal atmosphere, a BGF Retail official said. Lottes executives are also said to be working six days a week voluntarily, after their holding company entered an emergency mode earlier this month to counteract falling profits from its retail and chemical businesses. The conglomerate said it is considering convening executive meetings on weekends to discuss ways to overcome the crises. Although Lotte has not officially asked for a six-day workweek, executives at the conglomerates department stores, supermarkets, hotels and duty-free shops are reportedly inspecting their stores on weekends. In addition, Lotte Duty Free decided to cut payments to its executives and carry out a voluntary redundancy program. Lotte Chemical decided to reduce its budget for business trips. The chemical firm also banned its employees from using mobile messenger services for private purposes and from leaving their stations to smoke from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Our emergency mode is intended to deal with the global economic recession preemptively, a Lotte Corp. official said. After Samsung and SK asked their executives earlier this year to work six days a week, HD Hyundai Oilbank, NongHyup Bank, Samyang Group, SsangYong C&E and Seegene followed the trend. A labor union of Asiana Airlines, Korea's second-largest full-service air carrier, said Tuesday it has requested that the European Union (EU) investigate the suitability of Air Incheon's prospective purchase of Asiana's cargo division. The sale of Asiana's cargo division is part of conditions set by the EU's antitrust regulator in Korean Air's plan to acquire Asiana Airlines. Air Incheon was picked as the preferred bidder for Asiana's cargo business in June. Korean Air, the country's No. 1 air carrier, and Air Incheon concluded their contract negotiations earlier in the day and are expected to sign a memorandum of agreement Wednesday. The pilots' union of Asiana, which has opposed the Korean Air-Asiana merger, said it visited the European Commission (EC), the executive body of the EU, in Brussels on July 23 to meet with officials involved with reviewing the merger case. "We requested a thorough investigation into Air Incheon's suitability as a buyer for the cargo business," the union said in a release. Furthermore, the union urged the EU to consider a method that would ensure the employment of affected cargo pilots to remain with Asiana, instead of their employment being transferred to Air Incheon. According to the union, EC officials stated that it cannot intervene in the employment relationship between Korean Air or Asiana Airlines and their employees. The commission, however, said it would thoroughly review the union's request and the merger-related details. Korean Air responded to the union's release by stating, "We cannot disclose detailed information about the EU consultations." "We plan to proceed with the sale of the cargo business according to the scheduled timeline without any issues," the company added. (Yonhap) Top U.S. officials highlighted "unprecedented" defense and economic cooperation between South Korea, the United States and Japan, and tighter multinational collaboration against North Korean threats as feats of President Joe Biden's Indo-Pacific diplomacy in an opinion piece published Monday. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan wrote the piece in The Washington Post, underlining "tremendous results" of Biden's policy strategy while noting that America's standing in the region was "at its lowest point in decades" at the time of his inauguration in January 2021. Their joint op-ed came as Vice President Kamala Harris is set to be formally nominated this week as the Democratic Party's flag-bearer for the Nov. 5 general election, where she is to take on former President and Republican nominee Donald Trump. "President Biden brought together Japan and South Korea two countries with a difficult history to join the United States in the Camp David trilateral summit, spurring unprecedented defense and economic cooperation among our countries," they said in the op-ed. They were referring to the Camp David summit, the first-ever standalone trilateral summit among Seoul, Washington and Tokyo, which yielded a series of landmark agreements, including the leaders' "commitment to consult" each other in the event of a shared challenge. Blinken, Austin and Sullivan also stressed that under Biden, the U.S. upgraded the old "hub-and-spoke" model of diplomacy with an "integrated, interconnected" network of partnerships, pointing to the trilateral partnership among Seoul, Washington and Tokyo, and the AUKUS security pact, which consists of the U.S., Britain and Australia, among other groupings. The officials said that Washington's security cooperation with allies and partners is paying dividends, as they pointed to North Korea's nuclear saber-rattling and China's "dangerous and provocative actions at sea" as "serious" security challenges in the Indo-Pacific. "We're locking arms with our allies and partners against North Korea's destabilizing weapons programs," they said, stressing that the U.S.' security partnerships across the Indo-Pacific have become "more effective and more united." Though they did not mention Trump by name, the three officials took note of the foreign policy environment when Biden took office, and claimed that a strategy by Biden and Harris has led to the "transformation" of America's approach to the Indo-Pacific. "But when President Biden took office, America's standing in this critical part of the world was at its lowest point in decades. The region was still reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic. Our allies and partners feared that the United States had become an unreliable friend," they said. "An increasingly assertive China was taking advantage of America's turn inward to advance its alternative vision of the world a vision hostile to U.S. interests. So, President Biden instructed us to transform our approach to the region." At the core of Biden's policy strategy is to reinvigorate and leverage a network of America's allies and partners to confront shared challenges together. The officials also noted that South Korea has adopted a new strategy to "surge" economic investment in key industries in Southeast Asia, strengthening supply chains the U.S. economy relies on. They were referring to Seoul's regional strategy seeking a "free, peaceful and prosperous" Indo-Pacific. (Yonhap) The United States called on North Korea Monday to stop "provocative" and "unproductive" steps and return to dialogue after Pyongyang said it held a ceremony over the weekend for transferring 250 new tactical missile launchers to frontline military units. Matthew Miller, the State Department's spokesperson, made the call as the North's Korean Central News Agency reported Monday that leader Kim Jong-un attended the ceremony for the transfer of the launchers, which it portrayed as "new pivotal attack" weapons. "We would encourage North Korea to discontinue taking provocative and unproductive steps and return to the negotiating table," he told a press briefing. Concerns about North Korea's nuclear and missile threats have persisted in the absence of no meaningful diplomacy to at least curb those threats despite Washington's repeated overtures to meet with the North without preconditions. Asked about the possibility of Pyongyang conducting a nuclear test, Miller said that he did not have any assessment to comment on the matter. Miller also expressed hope that humanitarian concerns involving North Korean people will be addressed following reports about heavy damage from recent downpours in the reclusive state. Pyongyang has expressed gratitude for Russian President Vladimir Putin's offer of assistance to recover from what was left in the wake of the torrential rains, while remaining unresponsive to Seoul's proposal for humanitarian aid. "Obviously, our thoughts are always with the people of North Korea as they are with the people of any country around the world when they suffer humanitarian disaster," he said. "Whatever differences we have with any government, those are not differences with the people of that country. So we would hope to see the humanitarian needs of the North Korean people addressed." The North's border city of Sinuiju and Uiju County in North Phyongan Province were recently pummeled by heavy rains. South Korean media outlets have reported that the number of those who died or went missing could exceed 1,000. (Yonhap) Diplomatic pressure mounted Monday to avert an escalation between Iran and Israel following high-profile killings that have sent regional tensions soaring. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said late Sunday that his country was "determined to stand against" Iran and its allied armed groups "on all fronts". As its war against Iran-backed Hamas in Gaza nears the 11th month, Israel has been bracing for retaliation from the Tehran-aligned "Axis of Resistance" for the killing of two senior figures. Palestinian armed group Hamas's political leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran on Wednesday in an attack blamed on Israel, which has not directly commented on it. The killing came hours after an Israeli strike on Beirut killed the military chief of Lebanon's Hezbollah movement, Fuad Shuk. Tehran said on Monday that "no one has the right to doubt Iran's legal right to punish the Zionist regime" for Haniyeh's killing. United States President Joe Biden, whose country has sent extra warships and fighter jets to the region in support of Israel, held crisis talks on Monday with his national security team. The head of the U.S. military command covering the Middle East, General Michael Kurilla, arrived in Israel and met Israel's military chief Lieutenant-General Herzi Halevi for a security assessment, an Israeli military statement said. Iraqi sources said a base hosting U.S. troops in Iraq came under rocket fire on Monday, after an American strike on July 30 killed four pro-Iran Iraqi fighters. "Rockets were launched at Ain al-Assad base" in Anbar province, said a military source, while a commander in a pro-Iran armed group told AFP that at least "two rockets targeted" the base, without saying who had carried out the attack. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday urged all sides in the Middle East to avoid "escalation," his spokesman said. U.S. news site Axios earlier reported that Blinken told his counterparts from the G7 nations that any attack by Iran and Hezbollah could happen as early as Monday. 'Playing with fire' A European diplomat in Tel Aviv said "a coordinated response" from Iran and its proxies was expected but de-escalation efforts persisted. "We're telling them they have to stop playing with fire, because the risk of flare-ups is higher than at any time since October 7," he said, declining to be named as he was not authorized to speak on the issue. The Jeddah-based Organization of Islamic Cooperation is to meet on Wednesday at the request of "Palestine and Iran," to discuss developments in the region, an OIC official said. Israeli government spokesman David Mencer said his country is "preparing for any scenario both offensively and defensively". In the northern port city of Haifa, shop owner Yehuda Levi, 45, told AFP that Israelis are used to conflict, but facing a multi-pronged attack "is a little tricky". "It's difficult, but we believe we're a strong country. We're going to win this war." Turkey on Monday joined multiple nations calling on their citizens to leave Lebanon, where Hezbollah is based. Numerous airlines have suspended flights to the country or limited them to daylight hours. Germany's Lufthansa, which has already suspended flights to the region including Tel Aviv, said its planes would avoid Iraqi and Iranian airspace until at least Wednesday. Royal Jordanian Airlines said it would be operating three flights this week to transport nationals out of Beirut. 'Act urgently' The United Nations' rights chief Volker Turk called on "all parties, along with those states with influence, to act urgently to de-escalate what has become a very precarious situation". Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and his Iraqi counterpart Fuad Hussein in a joint statement Monday "agreed to make every effort to avoid a regional escalation". Italy currently holds the rotating presidency of the G7 group of countries. French President Emmanuel Macron also appealed for "restraint" in the Middle East, during conversations with the leaders of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, triggered by the Palestinian group's October 7 attack on Israel, has already drawn in Iran-backed militants in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen. The Hamas attack resulted in the deaths of 1,197 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures. Militants also seized 251 hostages, 111 of whom are still held captive in Gaza, including 39 the military says are dead. In Tel Aviv on Monday thousands of Israelis gathered to mark the fifth birthday of child hostage Ariel Bibas, and to call for the liberation of him and his family. Netanyahu repeatedly promises to bring the hostages home but is facing a growing chorus of skeptics who worry he's not interested in a ceasefire and hostage-release deal with Hamas, which U.S., Egyptian and Qatari mediators have for months been trying to reach. "The hostages have no time and it seems like some people in Israel, including the prime minister, are taking their time," said Gil Dickman, whose cousin Carmel Gat is among the captives. Israel's retaliatory military campaign in Gaza has killed at least 39,623 people, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry, which does not give details of civilian and militant deaths. As the region braced for further escalation, Hezbollah and Israel kept up their near-daily exchanges of fire. The Lebanese health ministry said three people were killed Monday in Israeli strikes on the country's south. Israel's military said it had struck militants operating a drone in the Mais al-Jabal area. Hezbollah later said two fighters had been killed, one from Mais al-Jabal. Tehran has said it expects Hezbollah to hit deeper inside Israel and no longer be confined to military targets. Far from the Lebanese border, the Israeli military said around 15 rockets had crossed from the southern Gaza Strip into Israel on Monday, with medics reporting one injury. (AFP) At least five U.S. personnel were injured in an attack against a military base in Iraq on Monday, U.S. officials told Reuters, as the Middle East braced for a possible new wave of attacks by Iran and its allies following last week's killing of senior members of militant groups Hamas and Hezbollah. Two Katyusha rockets were fired at al Asad airbase in western Iraq, two Iraqi security sources said. One Iraqi security source said the rockets fell inside the base. It was unclear whether the attack was linked to threats by Iran to retaliate over the killings. On Wednesday, Iran said the U.S. bears responsibility in the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran because of its support for Israel. The U.S. officials, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity, said one of the wounded Americans was seriously injured. The casualty count was based on initial reports which could still change, they said. "Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment," one of the officials added. Last week the U.S. carried out a strike in Iraq against individuals U.S. officials said were militants getting ready to launch drones and posed a threat to U.S. and coalition forces. The U.S. has been watching to see if Iran would make good on its vow to respond to the killing of Haniyeh two days ago in Tehran, one in a series of killings of senior figures in the Palestinian militant group as the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages. The Pentagon has said it will deploy additional fighter jets and Navy warships to the Middle East, as Washington seeks to bolster defenses following threats from Iran and its allies Hamas and Hezbollah. A rare ally of both the U.S. and Iran, Iraq hosts 2,500 U.S. troops and has Iran-backed militias linked to its security forces. It has witnessed escalating tit-for-tat attacks since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in October. Iraq wants troops from the U.S.-led military coalition to begin withdrawing in September and to formally end the coalition's work by September 2025, Iraqi sources have said, with some U.S. forces likely to remain in a newly negotiated advisory capacity. Baghdad has struggled to reign in Iran-backed armed groups that have attacked U.S. forces there and in neighboring Syria dozens of time since Oct. 7. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken on Sunday. An Iraqi official said Blinken asked Sudani to help decrease regional tensions by helping to convince Iran to temper its response to an Israeli strike in Tehran that killed the leader of Hamas last week. U.S. Army General Michael "Erik" Kurilla, head of U.S. Central Command, is currently in the Middle East. One of the U.S. officials said Kurilla was speaking with allies to ensure there was coordination in case of an Iranian attack against Israel. (Reuters) A U.S. judge ruled on Monday that Google violated antitrust law, spending billions of dollars to create an illegal monopoly and become the world's default search engine, the first big win for federal authorities taking on Big Tech's market dominance. The ruling paves the way for a second trial to determine potential fixes, possibly including a breakup of Google parent Alphabet, which would change the landscape of the online advertising world that Google has dominated for years. It is also a green light to aggressive U.S. antitrust enforcers prosecuting Big Tech, a sector that has been under fire from across the political spectrum. "The court reaches the following conclusion: Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly," U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, Washington, D.C., wrote. Google controls about 90 percent of the online search market and 95 percent on smartphones. The "remedy" phase could be lengthy, followed by potential appeals to the U.S. Court of Appeals, District of Columbia Circuit and the U.S. Supreme Court. The legal wrangling could play out into next year, or even 2026. Shares of Alphabet fell 4.5 percent on Monday amid a broad decline in tech shares as the wider stock market cratered on recession fears. Google advertising was 77 percent of Alphabet's total sales in 2023. Alphabet said it plans to appeal Mehta's ruling. "This decision recognizes that Google offers the best search engine, but concludes that we shouldnt be allowed to make it easily available," Google said in a statement. U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland called the ruling "a historic win for the American people, adding that "no company no matter how large or influential is above the law." White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the "pro-competition ruling is a victory for the American people," adding that "Americans deserve an internet that is free, fair, and open for competition." Billions paid Mehta noted that Google had paid $26.3 billion in 2021 alone to ensure that its search engine is the default on smartphones and browsers, and to keep its dominant market share. "The default is extremely valuable real estate," Mehta wrote. "Even if a new entrant were positioned from a quality standpoint to bid for the default when an agreement expires, such a firm could compete only if it were prepared to pay partners upwards of billions of dollars in revenue share and make them whole for any revenue shortfalls resulting from the change." He added, Google, of course, recognizes that losing defaults would dramatically impact its bottom line. For instance, Google has projected that losing the Safari default would result in a significant drop in queries and billions of dollars in lost revenues. The ruling is the first major decision in a series of cases taking on alleged monopolies in Big Tech. This case, filed by the Trump administration, went before a judge from September to November of last year. "A forced divestiture of the search business would sever Alphabet from its largest source of revenue. But even losing its capacity to strike exclusive default agreements could be detrimental for Google," said Emarketer senior analyst Evelyn Mitchell-Wolf, who said a drawn-out legal process would delay any immediate effects for consumers. In the past four years, federal antitrust regulators have also sued Meta Platforms, Amazon.com and Apple, claiming the companies have illegally maintained monopolies. Those cases all began under the administration of former President Donald Trump. Senator Amy Klobuchar, a Democrat who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee's antitrust subcommittee, said the fact that the case spanned administrations shows strong bipartisan support for antitrust enforcement. "It's a huge victory for the American people that antitrust enforcement is alive and well when it comes to competition," she said. "Google is a rampant monopolist." When it was filed in 2020, the Google search case was the first time in a generation that the U.S. government accused a major corporation of an illegal monopoly. Microsoft settled with the Justice Department in 2004 over claims that it forced its Internet Explorer Web browser on Windows users. (Reuters) Korea is banning travel to the border regions of Israel and Lebanon, and raising a travel advisory for part of Iran as the tensions of conflict have sharply escalated in the Middle East, the foreign ministry said Tuesday. The Level 4 travel ban, the highest of the four-scale travel warning system, will be applied to the northern border region of Israel and Lebanon's southern border area, about 4 and 5 kilometers from the Blue Line, respectively, the ministry said. The changes will be effective from Wednesday. The Blue Line is a temporary demarcation line dividing Lebanon from Israel and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. It was drawn by the United Nations in 2000 to determine Israel's line of withdrawal from Lebanon. Most of Israel and Lebanon had been under the Level 3 travel alert, which calls for people to leave the countries. The Gaza Strip and its border regions had already been issued the Level 4 travel warning. A "special travel advisory," calling for people to cancel or postpone trips, will be issued for the rest of Iran. Korea maintains the Level 3 alert, recommending departure from the country, for the Iranian regions bordering Turkey and Iraq, and three coastal provinces Khuzestan, Bushehr and Hormozgan in the Persian Gulf. (Yonhap) Felix's newest Instagram post has stirred netizens online. Since the photo contained context regarding the Marvel film "Deadpool & Wolverine," netizens have criticized the idol's "promotion" of the film during the ongoing boycott of Disney and Marvel. On August 4, Felix uploaded a photo on his official Instagram account featuring a Deadpool topper cup. In the background of the drink, viewing seats were also shown, indicating that Felix had gone to the cinema to watch the film. The idol also captioned, "#DeadpoolandWolverine @vancityreynolds @thehughjackman Beautiful. Hope to see 90-year-old Wolverine and Deadpool." The moment was utterly wholesome at best, as Felix has interacted with Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman several times, from doing an interview with the two stars to being with them in Stray Kids' music video for "Chk Chk Boom." In the comments section, some fans were happy to see the idol enjoying his time at the theater. However, netizens stormed the comments with opposite takes on Felix's post. They began to call out the idol for promoting the film during the boycott of Disney and Marvel. For further context, Disney has been a boycott target from netizens since the BDS (Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions) movement included the conglomerate in its list. The movement was also caused by the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, and many are hoping to make a difference by boycotting brands or companies that are associated with or profiting from Palestine's seizure. Read their comments below: "Boycott Marvel And Disney!" "Hey, Felix! Marvel (Disney) is on the BDS boycott list, we know you can educate yourself and be aware of what's happening in the world now. Your support might be very impactful." "Hi Felix, I don't know if you know but BDS is officially endorsing a boycott on Disney and Marvel for Palestine! It would be great if you could unshare this post in solidarity." "Please, don't ignore your fans in Palestine, reflect on who you're surrounding yourself with. We know you can speak up for what's right, so why are you not speaking on Palestine, Sudan, and Congo?" On social media platform X (Twitter), fans have also reacted to the post. The content led to heavily divided reactions from netizens, with one calling Felix out, and the other defending the idol's post and intentions. What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments below! For more K-pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Stray Kids Felix Criticized for Displaying THIS on Live Broadcast + Idol Personally Apologizes KpopStarz owns this article Written by Israel Monte On 5 August the Office of the United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Mexico and international press freedom organisations condemned the murder of journalistthe previous day. End of preview - This article contains approximately 402 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 5 August Venezuelas attorney generals office opened an investigation into the opposition presidential candidateand the leading opposition campaignerafter they urged the security forces to turn against President End of preview - This article contains approximately 596 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 5 August Brazils Presidentwas hosted in the La Moneda presidential palace in Santiago by his Chilean counterpart End of preview - This article contains approximately 401 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options A pilot who was allegedly uncertified at the time of a crash that killed a student pilot in the Lehigh Valley has been indicted on multiple federal charges. Philip Everton McPherson II, 36, of Haddon Township, was indicted on charges of involuntary manslaughter and 40 counts of serving as an airman without a certificate, the U.S. Attorneys Office Eastern District of Pennsylvania said on Monday. McPherson took off as the pilot-in-command of a Piper-28-140 on Sept. 28, 2022, from Queen City Airport in Allentown, federal officials said. Shortly after takeoff, the 23-foot-long plane crashed, resulting in the death of a student pilot who was on board, federal authorities said. The student pilot was previously identified as 49-year-old Keith Kozel, of Easton. The indictment alleges McPherson was negligent in the crash because he was aware of his incompetence to serve as the pilot-in-command. Before the incident, he had already been involved in two plane crashes, surrendered his pilot certificate to the FAA and failed a reexamination for the certificate, according to the indictment. In addition, his temporary pilot certificate also expired before the fatal crash, federal prosecutors said. McPherson was also the pilot-in-command on various flights with passengers without the proper certification between October 2021 and September 2022, authorities alleged. After his death, Kozel was remembered as a loving father of two who enjoyed outdoor adventures. He had been issued a student pilot certificate in February 2022. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. UPDATE: Work underway to remove gigantic sandbar from Jersey Shore inlet -- Local officials have growing concern over a large sandbar, also known as a shoal, that has formed in the Manasquan Inlet. Video and photos show the sandbar is on the Point Pleasant Beach side of the waterway and it appears to be about half as long as the inlet itself. I am aware of the sand shoaling on the south side of the inside of the Manasquan Inlet due in large part to the southerly wind weve been having, Point Beach Mayor Doug Vitale wrote on his Facebook page. I trust the U.S. Coast Guard is monitoring and will ensure safety of the Inlet. I am monitoring the situation as well and understand the gravity of the situation: safety, navigability, and the blockage it causes for our fishing industry. The Coast Guard also announced Monday it, too, was aware of the inlet and asked boaters to be cautious. We urge all mariners to transit the inlet with caution, and remind everyone not to enter the water inside of the jetties or leave the rocks to traverse the shoal, the Coast Guard Station Manasquan Inlet/Shark said in a statement. We are monitoring the situation and request all courtesies towards vessels working in the inlet as they begin dredging operations in the coming days. Rep. Chris Smith, R-4th Dist., said Monday he has sent a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers asking them to take immediate action to rectify the situation. The build-up of sand on the Point Pleasant side of the inlet against the jetty has reached unprecedented proportions, Smith said. This is not only a grounding hazard to vessels, but the waves created inside the inlet as a result of this shoaling are enough to capsize boats that regularly traverse the channel. Smith noted the Army Corps was scheduled to perform maintenance dredging on the inlet this week before a mechanical failure postponed that operation for two weeks. He emphasized this new development calls for a more urgent response, especially during this busiest boating time of the year on the Jersey Shore. Based on these concerns and understanding that the safety and viability of recreational, for-hire and commercial vessels is of utmost importance, especially during these last few weeks of summer when inlet traffic is at its peak, I respectfully request that the Army Corps take immediate corrective action to mitigate this dangerous navigational hazard, Smith said. A spokesman from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said it was working to obtain hydrographic surveys of the current inlet conditions. Once they were completed, they would be posted online for mariners to access and would be shared with the Coast Guard. The Corps dredging operation was slated to begin later this month, he confirmed. But some of that work could begin early this week, depending on weather and sea conditions, the spokesman added. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. A pilot who was allegedly uncertified at the time of a crash that killed a student pilot has been indicted on multiple federal charges. Philip Everton McPherson II, 36, of Haddon Township, was indicted on charges of involuntary manslaughter and 40 counts of serving as an airman without a certificate, the U.S. Attorneys Office Eastern District of Pennsylvania said on Monday. McPherson took off as the pilot-in-command of a Piper-28-140 on Sept. 28, 2022, from Queen City Airport in Allentown, Pennsylvania, federal officials said. Shortly after takeoff, the 23-foot-long plane crashed, resulting in the death of a student pilot who was on board, federal authorities said. The student pilot was previously identified as 49-year-old Keith Kozel, of Easton, Pennsylvania. The indictment alleges McPherson was negligent in the crash because he was aware of his incompetence to serve as the pilot-in-command. Before the incident, he had already been involved in two plane crashes, surrendered his pilot certificate to the FAA and failed a reexamination for the certificate, according to the indictment. In addition, his temporary pilot certificate also expired before the fatal crash, federal prosecutors said. McPherson was also the pilot-in-command on various flights with passengers without the proper certification between October 2021 and September 2022, authorities alleged. After his death, Kozel was remembered as a loving father of two who enjoyed outdoor adventures. He had been issued a student pilot certificate in February 2022. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. Electric Picnic organisers have announced this year's lineup for Hazelwood. Conradh na Gaeilges Irish language programme Croi Na Feile will be in full bloom again this year at Electric Picnic as the Irish language stage, An Chollchoill/ Hazelwood, returns this year and will celebrate Irish music, language and culture throughout the weekend. The festival is offering a unique 'Gaelteacht' campsite for campers, along with a wide range of acts and performances throughout the weekend. Here is the Hazelwood lineup: DAYTIME Billow Wood Sacred Sites of Ireland Strive Theatre Coscan Sarah Goyvaerts Liam OConnor Electric Youth The Timahoe Male Choir The Fogues Conradh na Gaelige Cahercalla Rebellion The Alcove Patrick Quilligan NIGHTTIME Bandia Piosa Umf Sexy Tadhg Dabla (Seit DJ) Blaithin Mhic Cana & Piaras O Lorcain Tra Phaidin Puzzy Wrangler (Seit DJ) An Sibin Burnchurch Huartan Aonad (Seit DJ) Hazelwood will kick off at a much earlier start at the festival, with early entry ticket holders treated to an all-female lineup of comedy and music from Blaithin de Burca, Jess Collins, Laytha, Leanne Toland, Sinead Walsh and Neev. This year Conradh na Gaeilges Croi na Feile is set to bring the Irish language to centre stage with a mix of traditional music agus cultur Gaelach with acts every night from 7pm to after midnight. These acts will feature some DJs from Puzzy Wrangler, Aonad and Dabla, traditional music and folk from Coscan, Billow Wood, The Fogues and Sexy Tadgh. Daytime will see winners of the Electric Youth competition showcase their talents in a range of genres from spoken word to vocal and instrumental pieces, performance art from Strive Theatre, music from accordion maestro Liam OConnor plus much more. "Conradh na Gaeilge are absolutely delighted to be back at Electric Picnic 2024 with a stellar line up sa Chollchoill / Hazelwood," said Orlaith Nic Ghearailt of Conradh na Gaeilge. "Following on from their hugely successful EP performances in previous years it's great to have Sexy Tadhg back on stage on Friday as well as Blaithin Mhic Cana and Piaras O Lorcain on Saturday. "Huartan, a tradtronica band from Beal Feirste, will make their debut in the Collchoill on Sunday. This year we'll have DJs every night with a special set from Puzzy Wrangler on Saturday. From the Gaeltacht campsite to the Collchoill stage there will be plenty of opportunities for people to put Gaeilge ag Croi na Feile, at the heart of their festival, this year," she finished. Once again, campers will have the opportunity to pitch their tents in the company of other Irish language speakers in the official Gaeltacht campsite, an Lathair Ghaeltachta. Organisers invites Picnickers to come and stay in the Gaeltacht campsite, where Irish will be the main spoken language, with "ceol, craic agus cannai among Gaels" promised at the festival. Croi na Feile is organised by Conradh na Gaeilge with the support of Foras na Gaeilge. 250 teenagers from around the world gather in Maynooth University for Foroiges Leadership for Life Youth Conference. The conference, which was launched on July 29, brings together young people to learn the skills and confidence to become leaders in their own lives and communities. Laois was represented by teenagers Ryan O Farrell, Alex Walsh, Jack Donoghue, Chloe Troy, Robyn OConnor and Holly Sherian. During the week-long conference the teens learn crucial life skills such as empathy, decision making, problem solving, communication skills, critical thinking and team work. Leadership for Life is a circuit-breaker programme and can truly be life-changing for young people," said Sean Campbell, CEO of Foroige. "This conference gives them the chance to not just learn from expert speakers and facilitators, but also to develop themselves and grow with each other in a fun and relaxed environment. "Year on year Im amazed by what young people can achieve when given the chance and the support. Every young person deserves to be able to access programmes like this. Pictured: Ryan O Farrell, Alex Walsh, Jack Donoghue, Chloe Troy, Robyn OConnor and Holly Sherian. As part of the week-long conference, the delegates met inspirational guest speakers including: Joanne ORiordan: Joanne is a renowned disability activist, and one of seven living people born with Tetra-amelia syndrome, a disorder characterised by the absence of all four limbs. She was named Young Person of the Year at Ireland's People of the Year Awards 2012 and appears in the 2013 documentary No Limbs No Limits. Joanne is now studying law full time. Cllr Mark Duffy: Mark Duffy is an independent county councillor serving as Mayos youngest representative. A former Mayor of Ballina, Mark had the honour of welcoming President Biden during his homecoming visit to the town in front of a 27,000 strong crowd. Zbyszek Zalinski: As Diversity & Inclusion Lead in RTE, Zbyszek Zalinski helps RTE better reflect the Ireland of today among those who make the programmes and support our different services, as well as those who appear on them. Sean Ronayne: Sean is an ornithologist, wildlife sound recordist, and environmental activist hailing from Cork, Ireland. He holds degrees in Zoology, Marine Biology, and Ecological Impact Assessment from University College Cork (UCC). His documentary Birdsong recently premiered in Irish cinemas and was shown on RTE1. The Foroige Leadership for Life Programme was developed in Ireland in 2009 and is open to young adults aged 15-18. Delegates attending have been nominated by youth workers and volunteer leaders from their own countries because they have demonstrated an innate sense of justice, determination, passion and ability to lead and make positive changes in their own communities. The programme includes lectures by a host of inspirational speakers, workshops on team building, critical thinking and communication skills and peer discussions on matters of global importance. Young people will also be challenged to understand their own values and prejudices. Participants are encouraged to go beyond their own personal comfort zones and perceived capabilities to be better than they thought they could be. Foroige is a leading youth organisation in Ireland. The charity works with over 50,000 young people and 5,500 adult volunteers annually, through a network of more than 500 youth clubs and cafes, 180 targeted projects and national programmes such as Entrepreneurship (NFTE), Health and Wellbeing, Citizenship and Entrepreneurship. As plans go on show for the newest and biggest secondary school in Laois and Offaly, its principal has decried the long 10 year wait so far to get to planning stage. "We have been maybe too patient...," Colaiste Iosagain principal Justin Brown told the Leinster Express / Laois Live. The school on Bog Road is the former girls secondary school, designed to fit 750 pupils but now with over 1,100 students squeezed in on a campus crowded with eight prefabs. It is the only secondary school in Portarlington and a wide area around it in both Laois and Offaly. The exciting plans, submitted to Offaly County Council, display a spacious school for 1,300 pupils, to be built on the playing pitches behind the existing school. The old school will then be knocked to be replaced with new playing pitches and parking at the front of the site. A spacious GP hall in the planned new school. It will take several more years yet before the school will be ready, with the next step being a yes from the planners, a decision due in late September. Mr Brown said it has been a long road already, describing the planning application as an important milestone. The plan grew in that time as Portarlington itself grew to become part of the Dublin commuter belt. "A design team was initially appointed in 2014 when Seamus Bennett was Principal. Between then and now there have been a number of changes. The remit went from an extension to a totally new build. Initially to cater for 1200 pupils but now that has been extended to 1300 pupils. The existing school, with the planning notice in place. Photo: Leinster Express. "This has been a long time coming. We have been very patient may be too patient and waited our turn while other schools were constructed/renovated. The students, staff and community of Portarlington are just as entitled to a modern post primary school as any other town. We do not expect preferential treatment but on the other hand we dont expect to be the poor relation either. "Thankfully the two main primary schools in the town, Presentation Primary and St Patricks BNS have received new builds over the past number of years. "We are one of the largest if not largest school in Laois and Offaly with an enrolment of over 1100 pupils. We are in a school that was built for 750 students with eight blocks of prefabs. "While we take great pride in our buildings and school we are looking forward to our new build. While we have waited this long one of the advantages is the building will be up to date with the most modern of facilities," he said. The overall site plan for the new Colaiste Iosagain in Portarlington. "The absence of a new building has not impacted the development of our school thanks to our hard working and dedicated staff. This year we are introducing PE and Computer Science to our Leaving Certificate Curriculum and Spanish into First Year. We have also been chosen as a pilot school for the new Leaving Certificate subject Climate Action and Sustainable Development in 2025. We have also just completed an Inspection of our successful Leaving Certificate Applied programme where eight of our LCA 2 students were the first in the Country to take the Maths Leaving Certificate Established paper," the principal said. Mr Brown notes all who have helped so far with the project. "The school and Board of Management would like to acknowledge the work of the Design Team lead by Keith Major of Kennedy Fitzgerald Architects of Belfast. The Design Team also includes local company MJ Turley. The officials in the Building Unit of the Department have also been very helpful and are as keen to see the development underway as the school. Cathal Berry, the local TD made the construction of a new school a priority and has worked accordingly. "We would also like to thank the Presentation Sisters as it is on the land that they donated initially that the school will be built upon. Although we now under the trusteeship of CEIST we are mindful of our roots as both Presentation Sisters and Christian Brothers schools prior to the amalgamation. Lastly but by no means least we would like to acknowledge our students, staff, parents (past and present) and the community of Portarlington who have always been so supportive of our school. "As a sole provider we are very conscious of our obligations to the community and the students we serve. Therefore, while a milestone has been reached we will not rest easy until we see the construction of our new school. Opened in 2000, in 2025 we will celebrate our Silver Jubilee. This news is a nice way to start off our celebrations," Justin Brown said. Tributes have been pouring for a mum of three who died one month after being diagnosed with cancer. Oana Smau of Celbridge, Co Kildare and formerly of Romania, passed away suddenly on July 31 surrounded by her family at The Mater Hospital. A month earlier, she had been diagnosed with lung cancer, which spread quickly. A GoFundMe campaign, to which you can donate here, has been set up to help her family with funeral costs. Since the tragic news broke out, tributes have been pouring in for Oana, who has been described as a fighter. Her daughter, Diana, paid tribute to her on the fundraiser page: She was and always will be the strongest woman I know and has also made me to be a strong woman just like her. For the last 14 years, she has raised me and my two younger brothers alone after my fathers tragic passing. She endured so much pain throughout her whole life but she was a fighter. Even now, the last few days in ICU, she fought for longer than any of the doctors wouldve expected with her lungs deteriorating so quickly. Oana left behind her three children. The funds raised will go towards her funeral costs, as well as to help them support themselves. "Now with her gone, its just me and my two younger brothers and my granny. I recently had moved away to a whole new country to start a life of my own, and only came back 2 weeks ago unexpectedly and I had invested all my life savings there. Not enough time has passed living there for me to have the money right now needed to pay for a funeral and all expenses to follow. "So Ive created this fundraiser to help me cover all the funeral expenses, burial service and give support to myself and my brothers as we fight through this until I can get a secure job and provide for my family. This is very difficult for all of us and we appreciate any donations to help support our situation at the moment. "May her beautiful soul Rest in Peace. We love you and will miss you so much mum," said her daughter Diana on the fundraiser page. Beloved wife of the late Ion (Nelu), much loved mother of Diana, Patrick and Brian and daughter of Victoria. Oana will be sadly missed by her loving family and friends. She will be reposing at her home on Friday evening, August 2 from 5pm to 8pm. Funeral service in Biserica Ortodoxa "Sfantul Columba" Dublin II, Blakestown, Dublin 15 on Saturday, August 3 at 10am followed by burial in Mulhuddart Cemetery. The recent hike in the electricity PSO (Public Service Obligation) levy is hitting households hardest, while large data centres benefit from a disproportionately low share of the costs, according to Cllr Padraig Fallon. The Government announced that households are to experience an almost 40 increase on electricity bills from October 1, to subsidise the production of electricity from renewable energy sources such as wind farms and solar panels. This will be charged as a monthly PSO levy worth 3.23 before VAT for domestic electricity customers, costing 38.76 a year. Irish households pay some of the highest electricity prices within Europe with the public paying nearly double than before the Covid pandemic. Small commercial customers of energy suppliers will also see their charges rise by nearly 155 over the next 12 months. For small business customers, they will see a monthly increase of 12.91. The Commission for Energy Regulation (CRU) sets the PSO levy. This marks a significant change from this year, when the PSO levy was set at zero due to high wholesale prices. In the same week we learned that 20,420 more households have fallen into debt to electricity companies compared to last year, the Government has imposed an additional financial burden on them, Cllr Fallon said. This increase will inevitably lead to more families struggling to pay their bills. The PSO levy, as it stands, is deeply regressive. It charges all electricity customers, but disproportionately affects households. This is because the levy is based on peak demand rather than total demand. For instance, in the last year, domestic users accounted for 39.7 percent of peak demand, yet only about 28 percent of total demand. The government could address this imbalance by simply changing the legislation to apportion the levy based on total demand, ensuring that data centres pay their fair share. The Government's current political choices indicate a preference for protecting large energy users over ordinary families, Cllr Fallon concluded. NASA Seeks Student Missions to Send to Space in 2026, Beyond WASHINGTON, Aug. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA announced a new round of opportunities for CubeSat, developers to build spacecrafts on that will fly on upcoming launches through the agency's CSLI (CubeSat Launch Initiative). CubeSats are a class of small spacecraft called nanosatellites. The initiative provides space access to U.S. educational institutions, certain non-profit organizations, and informal educational institutions such as museums and science centers, as well as NASA centers focused on workforce development, including the agency's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in southern California. It also encourages participation by minority serving institutions. "Working with CubeSats is a way to get students interested in launching a career in the space industry," said Jeanie Hall, CSLI program executive at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "NASA reviews applications for CubeSat missions every year and selects projects with an educational component that also can benefit the agency in better understanding education, science, exploration, and technology." Applicants must submit proposals by 5 p.m. EST, Nov. 15. NASA expects to make selections by March 14, 2025, for flight opportunities in 2026-2029, although selection does not guarantee a launch opportunity. Applicants are responsible for funding the development of the small satellites. Selected CubeSats get assigned a launch and deployment directly from a rocket or to low Earth orbit from the International Space Station. Once accepted, NASA mission managers act as advisors to the CubeSat team, ensuring technical, safety, and regulatory requirements are satisfied before launch. Those selected will strengthen their skills in hardware design and development and build knowledge in operating the CubeSats. Eight CubeSat missions recently shared a ride to space on Firefly Aerospace's Alpha rocket that launched on July 3 from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. One mission is CatSat, built by students at the University of Arizona, which is testing a deployable antenna attached to a Mylar balloon. Another is KUbeSat-1, built by the University of Kansas, is testing a new method of measuring the cosmic rays that hit the Earth. This launch also was notable for two CSLI 'first' milestones. The KUbeSat-1 and another called MESAT-1 were the first CSLI missions from the states of Kansas and Maine respectively. Four CubeSats also went to the space station as cargo in a SpaceX Dragon capsule on March 21 aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida as part of the agency's SpaceX 30th commercial resupply mission. Once aboard the space station, astronauts deployed the small missions into various orbits to demonstrate and mature technologies meant to improve solar power generation, detect gamma ray bursts, determine crop water usage, and measure root-zone soil and snowpack moisture levels. CubeSats are a class of spacecraft sized in multiples of a standardized unit called a "U." A 1-Unit (1U) CubeSat is about 10 x 10 x 11 cm in size (3.9 x 3.9 x 4.5 inches). They are small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and can be stacked together to form a slightly larger, more capable spacecraft. A 3U CubeSat is three times the size of a 1U, a 6U is six times the size. NASA has selected CubeSat missions from 45 states, Washington, and Puerto Rico, and launched about 160 CubeSats since inception. The CubeSat Launch Initiative is managed by NASA's Launch Services Program based at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. To learn more information about CSLI, visit: https://go.nasa.gov/CubeSat_initiative SOURCE NASA 5 august 2024 at 19:00 News published onand distributed by: RMZ and CPP Investments Complete Divestment of One Paramount 1 for US$264 Million One Paramount 1, Chennai is a Grade A prime office asset, comprising 2.4 million square feet (msf) of leasable space MUMBAI, India, Aug. 6, 2024 /CNW/ - RMZ Corporation, one of India's largest family-run alternative asset owners, and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments) announced that they have completed the sale of One Paramount 1 to Singapore-based Keppel Ltd., for US$264 million. One Paramount 1 is part of One Paramount, a Grade A prime office asset located in Chennai developed by the real estate joint venture between RMZ and CPP Investments. Strategically situated in Porur, One Paramount 1 is spread across 12.6 acres of land with 2.4 million square feet of leasable space. The asset comprises three modern office towers, boasting of spacious floor plates, complemented by support retail and amenities. It features a diverse tenant mix including global industry leaders like DOW Chemicals, Nielsen IQ, UPS, Maersk, Bechtel, Genpact, Hitachi Energy and VMware among others. Commenting on the development, Arshdeep Sethi, President RMZ Real Estate said, "The divestment of One Paramount 1 reflects our commitment to efficient capital management, allowing us to reallocate resources into newer, high-growth opportunities within our portfolio. This transaction not only reflects strong investor confidence in India's commercial real estate sector but also emphasises RMZ's commitment to unlock immense stakeholder value. Keppel's acquisition of One Paramount 1 reinforces investor appetite for Grade A office assets in the top office markets of India." As part of their partnership, RMZ and CPP Investments will continue to hold stakes in additional ~12.5 million square feet of core and under development commercial assets spread across five Indian cities. The joint venture witnessed the development of RMZ One Paramount in Chennai and prime office assets like RMZ Nexity and RMZ Spire in Hyderabad. Hari Krishna, Managing Director and Head of Real Estate India, CPP Investments said, "India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world and an important market for us in Asia. We have been able to capture the country's growth opportunities in the real estate sector through our partnership with RMZ. The sale of One Paramount 1 represents an opportunity to monetize a quality asset to deliver returns to the CPP Fund." Net proceeds to CPP Investments from the sale will be approximately US$52 million. The substantial inflows of foreign capital into India's real estate market underlines the nation's economic rise. This trend is reflected in the performance of the first half of 2024, wherein Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) contributed a substantial US$3.1 billion, accounting for 65% of the total US$4.8 billion invested in the sector.1 _________________________ 1 JLL - https://www.business-standard.com/industry/news/investments-in-indian-real-estate-rise-to-record-4-8-bn-in-h1-2024-report-124070500497_1.html About CPP Investments Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investmentstm) is a professional investment management organization that manages the Fund in the best interest of the more than 22 million contributors and beneficiaries of the Canada Pension Plan. In order to build diversified portfolios of assets, investments are made around the world in public equities, private equities, real estate, infrastructure and fixed income. Headquartered in Toronto, with offices in Hong Kong, London, Mumbai, New York City, San Francisco, Sao Paulo and Sydney, CPP Investments is governed and managed independently of the Canada Pension Plan and at arm's length from governments. At March 31, 2024, the Fund totalled C$632.3 billion. For more information, please visit www.cppinvestments.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram or on X @CPPInvestments. SOURCE Canada Pension Plan Investment Board 6 august 2024 at 05:00 News published onand distributed by: Cyble Appoints Ernest Fung as Chief Financial Officer to Drive Financial Strategy and Global Expansion Cyble, a global leader in AI-powered Gen 3 Cyber Threat Intelligence and digital risk protection, is excited to announce the appointment of Ernest Fung as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). With a rich background in corporate finance and investment strategies, Ernest brings invaluable expertise and leadership to Cyble. His role will be instrumental in enhancing the company's financial strategy and driving its global expansion. Ernest's distinguished career spans over two decades across several sectors. He previously served as Chief Investment Officer at GoTo Group, Indonesia's largest technology company. where he led GoTo's $1 billion IPO, and secured over $1.3 billion in funding in GoTo's pre-IPO financing. Ernest also served as Chief Investment Officer at Tokopedia, the leading e-commerce company in Indonesia, where he led the $18 billion merger with Gojek to form GoTo Group. Prior to his leadership positions at GoTo and Tokopedia, Ernest led International Corporate Development at JD.com, one of the largest e-commerce companies in China, and was a Director of Technology Investment Banking at Citigroup. Beenu Arora, CEO of Cyble, stated, "We are delighted to welcome Ernest to our executive team. His understanding of financial strategy for managing high-growth companies will be invaluable as we scale our operations globally." Manish Chachada, COO of Cyble, added, "Ernest's expertise in financial management and his strategic vision will be crucial as we expand our product offerings." "I am excited to join Cyble, one of the most innovative cybersecurity companies in the world," said Ernest. "I look forward to working closely with the Cyble team to achieve the company's vision." Cyble has recently received significant accolades, including being named an Innovation Leader in the Frost Radartm: Cyber Threat Intelligence 2024 by Frost & Sullivan. The company was also recognized in three Gartner Hype Cycletm reports for the DRPS category, featured in Forrester's ASM Landscape 2024 report, and highlighted as a leader in G2's Dark Web Monitoring Providers grid. About Cyble Cyble, the world's fastest-growing Gen 3 cyber threat intelligence company, offers comprehensive coverage across adversaries, infrastructure, exposures, weaknesses, and targets. Leveraging AI and ML, Cyble provides critical intelligence to help governments and enterprises protect citizens and infrastructure. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Cyble also has offices in Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and India. To learn more visit http://www.cyble.com/request-demo 6 august 2024 at 05:05 News published onand distributed by: Xali Gold Trading Halt VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Xali Gold Corp. (TSXV:XGC) ("Xali Gold" or "the Company") advises that the British Columbia Securities Commission has notified the Company that it has issued a cease trade order ("FFCTO") under Multilateral Instrument 11-103 ? Failure-to-File Cease Trade Orders in Multiple Jurisdictions for the Company. The FFCTO was issued as a result of the Company's delay in filing its audited annual financial statements, accompanying management discussion and analysis, and CEO and CFO certifications for the financial year ended March 31, 2024 (the "Annual Filings") in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. The FFCTO prohibits any trading, whether direct or indirect, in respect of each security of the Company in each jurisdiction in Canada until such time as the Company is able to complete the filing of the Annual Filings. The Company expects to be able to file as required and resume trading within the next 3 or 4 days. About Xali Gold Xali Gold has gold and silver projects in Peru and Mexico. The Company's flagship project El Oro is a district scale gold project encompassing a well-known prolific high-grade gold dominant gold-silver epithermal vein system in Mexico. The project covers 20 veins with past production and more than 57 veins in total, from which approximately 6.4M ozs of gold and 74M ozs of silver were reported to have been produced from just two of these veins (Ref. Mexico Geological Service Bulletin Nr. 37, Mining of the El Oro and Tlapujahua Districts. 1920, T. Flores). Modern understanding of epithermal vein systems indicates that several of the El Oro district's veins hold excellent discovery potential, particularly below and adjacent to the historic workings of the San Rafael Vein, which was mined to an average depth of only 200m. Xali Gold is dedicated to being a responsible Community partner. Joanne C. Freeze, P.Geo., President and CEO is the Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 for the projects discussed above. Ms. Freeze has reviewed and approved the contents of this release. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking Information This news release may contain forward-looking information (as such term is defined under Canadian securities laws) including but not limited to historical production records. While such forward-looking information is expressed by Xali Gold in good faith and believed by Xali Gold to have a reasonable basis, they may address future events and conditions and are therefore subject to inherent risks and uncertainties including those set out in Xali Gold's MD&A. Factors that cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking information include, without limitation, gold prices, results of exploration and development activities, regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of materials and equipment, timeliness of government approvals, potential environmental issues, availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. Xali Gold expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. On behalf of the Board of Xali Gold Corp. "Joanne Freeze" P.Geo. President, CEO and Director For further information please contact: Joanne Freeze, President & CEO Tel: + 1 (604) 689-1957 [email protected] NR 135 6 august 2024 at 07:00 News published onand distributed by: Meharry Medical College Receives $175 Million from Bloomberg Philanthropies Philanthropist and former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg today announced that Bloomberg Philanthropies has awarded a $175 million gift to Meharry Medical College to strengthen the College's endowment and its capacity to advance health equity worldwide. The gift is the largest in Meharry's history, significantly enhancing its endowment and fueling its long-term efforts to diversify the medical field and train the next generation of doctors. "Today is a momentous day for Meharry Medical College, elevating and accelerating our mission to serve the underserved of our nation and world," said Meharry Medical College President and CEO Dr. James E.K. Hildreth. "Meharry holds a distinct place in the health care infrastructure as the oldest and largest independent historically Black academic health sciences center in the nation. For nearly 150 years, Meharrians have committed their lives to eliminating disparities and improving health equity, often in the face of significant discrimination, injustice and adversity. This historic investment by Bloomberg Philanthropies is a testament to Meharry's legacy and to the promise of Meharrians to transform the future of health care for the betterment of all." The commitment is part of a combined $600 million investment by Bloomberg Philanthropies in the nation's four historically Black medical schools, which, in addition to Meharry, include Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Howard University College of Medicine and Morehouse School of Medicine. Bloomberg Philanthropies also contributed seed funding to support the creation of Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, a new medical school in New Orleans. The funding is part of Bloomberg Philanthropies' Greenwood Initiative, which seeks to advance racial wealth equity by addressing systemic underinvestment in Black institutions and communities. "We have much more to do to build a country where every person, regardless of race, has equal access to quality health care ? and where students of all backgrounds have an equal opportunity to pursue their dreams," Bloomberg said in the announcement. "Addressing health disparities and underrepresentation in the medical field are critical challenges, and Bloomberg Philanthropies is dedicated to making a difference. By building on our previous support, this gift will empower new generations of Black doctors to create a healthier and more equitable future for our country." Founded in 1876, Meharry Medical College was the first medical school in the American South to train and care for Black people. Today, the college includes five schools: the School of Medicine, the School of Dentistry, the School of Graduate Studies, the School of Applied Computational Sciences and the School of Global Health. Thousands of physicians, dentists, researchers, data scientists and public health experts educated by Meharry have gone on to pursue the College's mission to serve the underserved in rural and urban communities around the world. Meharry is determined to eliminate health disparities and increase equity and access by creating a more diverse workforce in the U.S. Research has shown that Black patients have better health outcomes when they receive care from a Black provider. Yet, while 13 percent of the U.S. population is Black, fewer than 6 percent of doctors are Black, creating a vast equity gap in health care. Meharry and its fellow historically Black medical schools collectively educate approximately half of Black doctors in the U.S.?however, these institutions continue to have underfunded endowments due to systemic funding inequities. The commitment by Bloomberg Philanthropies directly confronts these historic funding inequities by establishing long-standing financial security to guarantee Meharry continues to fulfill its mission of serving the underserved. The Bloomberg Philanthropies' gift follows a $34 million investment the organization made to Meharry in 2020 ? part of a larger $100 million gift to the historically Black medical schools to reduce student debt during the pandemic. In 2021, Bloomberg Philanthropies donated an additional $6 million to support the medical schools' vaccination efforts. "Michael Bloomberg and Bloomberg Philanthropies recognize the enormously important role historically Black medical schools have played and continue to play in ensuring that all Americans receive quality health care, regardless of race or economic status," said Hildreth. "The entire Meharry family extends our profound gratitude to Bloomberg Philanthropies for its ongoing commitment to our mission and its strong statement that investing in diversity and inclusion is essential to creating a healthier America." About Meharry Medical College Meharry Medical College, founded in 1876, is the nation's largest private, independent historically Black academic health sciences center dedicated solely to educating minority and other health professionals. True to its heritage, it is a United Methodist Church-related institution. The College is particularly well known for its uniquely nurturing, highly effective educational programs; emerging preeminence in health disparities research; culturally sensitive, evidence-based health services and significant contribution to the diversity of the nation's health professions workforce. Diverse Issues in Higher Education's ranking of institutions annually lists Meharry as a leading national educator of African Americans with M.D. and D.D.S. degrees and Ph.D. degrees in the biomedical sciences. Visit www.mmc.edu to learn more. About Bloomberg Philanthropies Bloomberg Philanthropies invests in 700 cities and 150 countries around the world to ensure better, longer lives for the greatest number of people. The organization focuses on creating lasting change in five key areas: the Arts, Education, Environment, Government Innovation, and Public Health. Bloomberg Philanthropies encompasses all of Michael R. Bloomberg's giving, including his foundation, corporate, and personal philanthropy as well as Bloomberg Associates, a philanthropic consultancy that advises cities around the world. In 2023, Bloomberg Philanthropies distributed $3 billion. For more information, please visit bloomberg.org. 6 august 2024 at 07:05 News published onand distributed by: Entourage Health to Host Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results Call TORONTO, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Entourage Health Corp. (TSX-V: ENTG) (OTCQX: ETRGF) (FSE:4WE) ("Entourage" or the "Company"), a Canadian producer and distributor of award-winning cannabis products, announced today that the Company's second quarter 2024 financial results will be released after market close on Monday, August 26, 2024. The Company will host a conference call to discuss the results and provide an operational update and recap of achievements on Tuesday, August 27, 2024. Conference Call Details: The conference call will be hosted by CEO and Executive Chair George Scorsis and CFO Vaani Maharaj. Following the opening remarks, management will be available to answer questions. Time: 10:00 am Eastern Time Toll-Free Number: +1 (800)-267-6316 Conference ID: ETRGFQ2 Webcast: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/382521020 Company Update The Company announced earlier it was in breach of certain financial covenants and other obligations under each of its Senior Credit Agreement and Subordinated Credit agreements with an affiliate of the LiUNA Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada ("LPF"). The Company is working collaboratively with LPF to agree on amended debt terms. As a positive step forward, the Company received a renewed forbearance letter dated August 2, 2024, waiving the Company's breaches until October 8, 2024, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions. About Entourage Health Corp. Entourage Health Corp. is the publicly traded parent Company of Entourage Brands Corp., a licence holder producing and distributing cannabis products for the medical and adult-use markets. The Company owns and operates a fully licensed 26,000F sq. ft. Aylmer, ON processing facility. With its Starseed Medicinal medical-centric brand, Entourage has expanded its multi-channelled distribution strategy. Starseed's industry-first, exclusive partnership with LiUNA, the largest construction union in Canada, along with employers and union groups, complements Entourage's direct sales to medical patients. Entourage's elite adult-use product portfolio includes Color Cannabis, Saturday Cannabis ? and now Dime Bag and Syndicate ? sold across eight provincial distribution agencies. Exclusive Canadian producer and distributor of award-winning U.S.-based wellness brand Mary's Medicinals, sold in both medical and adult-use channels. In addition, Entourage also entered into an exclusive agreement with Irwin Naturals, a renowned nutraceutical and herbal supplement formulator of branded wellness products sold across North America. Follow Entourage and its brands on: LinkedIn Instagram: Color Cannabis, Saturday Cannabis, Dimebag For additional information or investor or media inquiries: Catherine Flaman Senior Director, Communications & Corporate Affairs 416-910-0279 [email protected] Forward Looking Information This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation which are based upon Entourage's current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs and views of future events. Forward-looking information can be identified using forward-looking terminology such as "expect", "likely", "may", "will", "should", "intend", "anticipate", "potential", "proposed", "estimate" and other similar words, including negative and grammatical variations thereof, or statements that certain events or conditions "may", "would" or "will" happen, or by discussions of strategy. The forward-looking information in this news release is based upon the expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions, and views of future events which management believes to be reasonable in the circumstances. Forward-looking information includes estimates, plans, expectations, opinions, forecasts, projections, targets, guidance, or other statements that are not statements of fact. Forward-looking information necessarily involve known and unknown risks, including, without limitation, risks associated with general economic conditions; adverse industry events; loss of markets; future legislative and regulatory developments; inability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favourable terms; the cannabis industry in Canada generally; the ability of Entourage to implement its business strategies; the COVID-19 pandemic; competition; crop failure; and other risks. Any forward-looking information speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and, except as required by law, Entourage does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Entourage to predict all such factors. When considering this forward-looking information, readers should keep in mind the risk factors and other cautionary statements in Entourage's disclosure documents filed with the applicable Canadian securities' regulatory authorities on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The risk factors and other factors noted in the disclosure documents could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those described in any forward-looking information. 6 august 2024 at 07:45 News published onand distributed by: Trans Canada Gold Corp Receives Well License/Drill Permit from the Alberta Energy Regulator and Prepares to Start Lease Construction and Begin Drilling Its Second Multilateral Oil Well Near Lloydminster, Alberta Highlights: Well, License and Drilling Permit Received : Trans Canada Gold Corp. has received the necessary well license to drill its second multilateral well targeting the General Petroleum (GP) Zone near Lloydminster, Alberta. This new well is based on successful similar wells in the GP oil formation. Partnership and Well Details : The well, located on lands controlled by a strategic partnership led by Croverro Energy, with Trans Canada holding an 18.75% interest, is expected to access over 8000 meters of the GP oil reservoir. Surface preparations are underway, with lease construction scheduled for completion by August 10th, 2024 , and drilling set to begin mid-August. Expansion and Future Potential: Trans Canada Gold has acquired an additional 320-acre parcel from Canpar (CN Pension Fund), Freehold Royalties and Rife Resources, increasing their land holdings and allowing for the drilling of up to four more multilateral wells. The newly acquired lands, along with existing ones, offer significant oil resource potential in both the Sparky and GP producing zones. The total cost for drilling and equipping the new well, which includes the cost of drilling, casing, and installing production equipment, is estimated at $2.2 million, with Trans Canada's share being $412,500, for which the company is fully funded. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Trans Canada Gold Corp. (TSXV:TTG)(OTCQB:TTGXF) ("Trans Canada" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company has now received the well license required to drill its second multilateral well targeting the General Petroleum (GP) Zone, situated near Lloydminster, Alberta. The lands for the well are currently controlled by a partnership led by Croverro, with the Company holding 18.75% interest. This second multilateral horizontal well is based on similar wells drilled in the GP oil formation using surrounding well control combined with recently processed seismic lines. The new multilateral well is expected to contact over 8000 m of GP oil reservoir. Surface preparations are now in progress, with lease construction expected to be completed by August 10th, 2024. The well is scheduled to be drilled in mid-August. Drilling completion and equipping costs are expected to be $2.2 million for the well ($412,500 net to Trans Canada). The Company is fully funded for these operations. Croverro Energy Ltd., under the terms of the agreement, is the Operator. The Company has acquired additional lands inside the AMI, which will allow the drilling of up to 4 additional multilateral wells. The 320-acre parcel offset our existing lands to the north were acquired from Canpar (CN Pension Fund), Freehold Royalties and Rife Resources. The newly acquired lands, together combined with our existing lands, have the oil resource potential in both the Sparky and General Petroleum (GP) producing zones. Commented Tim Coupland, "We are excited to be drilling our second multilateral oil well with a reliable and experienced partner who has consistently targeted and successfully drilled, completed and started production several wells targeting different oil reservoirs. Croverro has proven to be a very competent operator providing low operating cost and consistent production days. We believe drilling multilateral horizontal wells with good well control and utilizing new computer modelling and seismic techniques will provide continued success. The partnership is allowing the Company to grow rapidly and prosper, as world oil prices continue to remain high." "With the recent strategic land and lease acquisitions, together with well control and recently obtained and processed seismic data, the upcoming drill program in the General Petroleum Sand has been de-risked as much as possible. This well will further strengthen our strategic growth position with increased oil production and increased revenue. Multilateral wells offer the best potential for high initial production rates, modest decline rates, resulting in a more stable and sustained production level over time, which enhances our overall production growth strategy." commented Director Chris Timmins. ABOUT TRANS CANADA GOLD CORP. - OIL AND GAS PRODUCTION/REVENUE PRODUCING WELLS The Company is a discovery focused Oil & Gas Resource Development and Mineral Exploration Company that is currently focused on developing and drilling its' production of conventional heavy oil exploration properties, increasing production capabilities, and increasing future oil production revenues through responsible exploration. The Company identifies, acquires and finances with its working interest partners, the ongoing development of oil and gas assets primarily situated in Alberta Canada. The Company has qualified Senior exploration management and Geological teams of professionals, seasoned in exploration production, field exploration and drilling. The Company currently works with Croverro Energy Ltd., who has demonstrated proficiency, expected of an experienced oil and gas technical team that has proven oil production, and revenue success with large multilateral wells currently under their supervision. The Company has the necessary manpower in place to develop its natural resource properties and manage its production properties. The Company is committed to minimizing risk through selective property acquisitions, and responsible exploration drilling, and maximizing long term petroleum and natural gas resource assets. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Tim Coupland, President and CEO Trans Canada Gold Corp. Tel: (604) 681-3131 [email protected] www.transcanadagold.com. or Christian Timmins, Director Trans Canada Gold Corp. Tel: (403) 597-3410 Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider, (as the term is defined in the Policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: Trans Canada Gold Corp. 6 august 2024 at 08:30 View the original press release on accesswire.comNews published onand distributed by: Jscrambler Announces PCI DSS Quick Start Program to Ensure Zero Friction Compliance with PCI DSS Version 4 Program Simplifies Merchant and PSP Compliance for PCI DSS Requirements 6.4.3 and 11.6.1 PORTO, Portugal, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Jscrambler, the pioneering platform for client-side protection, today announced its PCI DSS Quick Start Program. In accordance with Jscrambler's Zero Friction vision, the company has released the industry's only program aimed at addressing the practical operational challenges of PCI DSS Compliance while enabling merchants and PSPs to quickly comply with Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security Standard (DSS) requirements 6.4.3 and 11.6.1. New PCI DSS version 4 requirements 6.4.3 and 11.6.1 require securing payment pages to protect against client-side web skimming attacks. According to Visa's Spring 2023 Biannual Threats Report, web skimming attacks targeting E-commerce checkout page customer data increased by 174% in the last half of 2022. While skimming attacks continue to grow, preventative solutions alone are not enough. During the recent webinar, titled, Coalfire reviews the Jscrambler platform in meeting PCI DSS requirements 6.4.3 & 11.6.1, over 85% of poll respondents reported ease of use as the primary criteria when selecting a vendor. In response, Jscrambler has released its new PCI DSS Quick Start Program, which enables a more frictionless PCI DSS process while making it faster and simpler for merchants to comply. "As web skimming attacks continue escalating, merchants must take action to secure e-commerce payment pages and protect their sites. With its latest requirements 6.4.3 and 11.6.1, PCI Security Standards Council (SSC) is providing critical guidance that can help businesses mitigate these outside threats. But with the organization's March 2025 deadline fast approaching, companies should aim to comply quickly to avoid any potential repercussions," said Jscrambler CEO, Rui Ribeiro. "Our new PCI DSS Quick Start program was designed in response to those urgently needing a solution to meet the impending deadlines. It delivers a frictionless approach allowing merchants to easily and cost-effectively achieve compliance, while also offloading the ongoing management that comes with maintaining compliance." The PCI DSS Quick Start Program includes the following to accelerate cost-effective compliance: Payment Page Inventory Report (Prepare): Upfront automated analysis of an organization's payment page script inventory, detailing script data access and exfiltration. This optional report is delivered within 48 hours of the request to baseline existing scripts, and authorization processes. Upfront automated analysis of an organization's payment page script inventory, detailing script data access and exfiltration. This optional report is delivered within 48 hours of the request to baseline existing scripts, and authorization processes. Unified Hybrid Architecture (Deploy): A unified agent and agentless architecture is delivered to meet the specific risk and compliance requirements of each payment page. This flexible delivery model keeps architectural options open, and avoids architectural lock-in, as requirements change over time. A unified agent and agentless architecture is delivered to meet the specific risk and compliance requirements of each payment page. This flexible delivery model keeps architectural options open, and avoids architectural lock-in, as requirements change over time. Automated Payment Page Compliance (Comply): Payment page analysis will be run periodically to meet the recurrence requirements outlined by PCI DSS. Customers receive everything needed to comply with PCI DSS requirements 6.4.3 and 11.6.1. Payment page analysis will be run periodically to meet the recurrence requirements outlined by PCI DSS. Customers receive everything needed to comply with PCI DSS requirements 6.4.3 and 11.6.1. QSA Payment Page Inventory Tool (Verify): The payment page inventory tool arms your Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) with a real-time analysis and inventory report of each payment page vendor, script, and iframe. These reports are available to QSAs to help verify compliance. The payment page inventory tool arms your Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) with a real-time analysis and inventory report of each payment page vendor, script, and iframe. These reports are available to QSAs to help verify compliance. Delegated Compliance (Manage): All manual time-intensive script authorization processes can be offloaded from business stakeholders to Jscrambler operational staff. Jscrambler works with each customer to establish agreed-upon authorization policies and processes that enable expedited authorization review and approval. Jscrambler's PCI DSS Quick Start Program will be offered through March 31, 2025, when the requirements go into effect. To learn more about the program, please contact a Jscrambler representative here. For more detailed information on the program, read the PCI DSS Quick Start Program blog here, and watch Jscrambler's webinar, 5 Simple Steps to Zero Friction PCI DSS Compliance. About Jscrambler Jscrambler is the leader in Client-Side Protection and Compliance. Jscrambler is the first to merge advanced polymorphic JavaScript obfuscation with fine-grained third-party tag protection in a unified Client-Side Protection and Compliance Platform. Jscrambler's integrated solution ensures a robust defense against current and emerging client-side cyber threats, data leaks, misconfigurations, and IP theft, empowering software development and digital teams to securely innovate online with JavaScript. Jscrambler's Code Integrity product safeguards first-party JavaScript through state-of-the-art obfuscation and exclusive runtime protection. Jscrambler's Webpage Integrity product mitigates threats and risks posed by third-party tags, all while ensuring compliance with the new version 4 of PCI DSS. With Jscrambler, businesses adopt a unified, future-proof client-side security policy, all while achieving compliance with emerging security standards. Jscrambler serves a diverse range of customers, including top Fortune 500 companies, online retailers, airlines, media outlets, and financial services firms whose success depends on safely engaging with their customers online. For more information, visit www.jscrambler.com, or follow Jscrambler on LinkedIn or X. CONTACT: Doug Fraim Guyer Group for Jscrambler [email protected] SOURCE Jscrambler 6 august 2024 at 09:00 News published onand distributed by: Dodge//SRT Expands Dodge Power Dollars, Rewards Enthusiasts Who Crave More Power AUBURN HILLS, Mich. , Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Industry-exclusive program gives customers $10 per horsepower cash allowance toward the purchase of 2023 model-year Dodge Charger SXT, GT and R/T models, 2023 Challenger SXT, GT and R/T models per horsepower cash allowance toward the purchase of 2023 model-year Dodge Charger SXT, GT and R/T models, 2023 Challenger SXT, GT and R/T models Dodge Power Dollars available on all 2024 Dodge Durango trims, including SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat models For the first time ever, the 2024 Dodge Hornet is eligible for Dodge Power Dollars Dodge Power Dollars starts Aug. 6, 2024 For more information on Dodge brand, visit Dodge.com Dodge//SRT is making performance even more attainable, expanding its popular Dodge Power Dollars national sales promotion from Charger and Challenger models to now include Durango SRT 392 and Durango SRT Hellcat models and, for the first time ever, the Dodge Hornet. "Dodge brand total sales in the U.S. increased 16% from the first quarter to the second quarter of 2024, and we plan to continue to build on that momentum," said Matt McAlear, Dodge brand CEO. "We know our Dodge//SRT enthusiasts crave more power and performance, and Dodge Power Dollars gives them an extra boost to join the Brotherhood of Muscle." Starting today, customers across the United States can get $10 per horsepower cash allowance toward the purchase of 2023 model-year Dodge Charger SXT, GT and R/T models, 2023 Challenger SXT, GT and R/T models and all 2024 Dodge Durango trims, including SRT 392 and supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI SRT Hellcat models that produce 710 horsepower and 645 lb.-ft. of torque. For the first time ever, the 2024 Dodge Hornet is also eligible for the industry-exclusive program. Dodge Power Dollars examples include: Durango HP Dollars SXT 293 $2,930 GT/Citadel V-6 295 $2,950 R/T/Citadel V-8 360 $3,600 SRT 392 475 $4,750 SRT Hellcat 710 $7,100 Hornet HP Dollars GT 268 $2,680 R/T 288 $2,880 Charger HP Dollars SXT 292 $2,920 GT 300 $3.000 R/T 370 $3,700 Challenger HP Dollars SXT/GT 303 $3,030 R/T 375 $3,750 Dodge//SRT For 110 years, the Dodge brand has carried on the spirit of brothers John and Horace Dodge. Their influence continues today as Dodge shifts into high gear with a lineup that delivers unrivaled performance in each of the segments in which the brand competes while moving forward to a future that includes electrified muscle in the form of the next-generation, all-new Dodge Charger. The next-generation Dodge Charger electrifies a legend, with the Charger retaining its title as the world's quickest and most powerful muscle car led by the all-new, all-electric 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack. The all-new Dodge Charger will also offer performance choices via multi-energy powertrain options including the 550-horsepower Dodge Charger SIXPACK H.O., powered by the 3.0L Twin Turbo Hurricane High Output engine. Dodge also keeps its foot on the gas as a pure performance brand with the 710-horsepower Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, the most powerful SUV ever, and best-in-class standard performance in the compact utility vehicle segment with the Dodge Hornet. Dodge is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com. Follow Dodge//SRT and company news and video on: Company blog: http://blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com Media website: http://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com Dodge brand: www.dodge.com Direct Connection: www.DCPerformance.com DodgeGarage: www.dodgegarage.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/dodge Instagram: www.instagram.com/dodgeofficial Twitter: www.twitter.com/dodge and @StellantisNA YouTube: www.youtube.com/dodge, https://www.youtube.com/StellantisNA SOURCE Stellantis 6 august 2024 at 11:00 News published onand distributed by: 'In the Footsteps of Marco Polo', new documentary supported by Global Education, premieres at Curzon Mayfair LONDON, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In the Footsteps of Marco Polo, featuring Stanley and Max Johnson, premiered at Curzon Mayfair on Wednesday, July 3. The documentary follows their 2023 road trip to the Forbidden City in Beijing, the end of the Silk Road. The 2,500-mile journey took them through some of the most beautiful places on Earth. Stanley said: "Completing the Silk Road has taken 62 years and was something Michael and Tim, my two late co-conspirators, would have loved to have been a part of. "Being able to pick up where I left off more than six decades ago and complete this journey, with my son by my side, is something I will never forget. "But while this journey meant a lot to me personally, there is a bigger picture. The project presented an opportunity to show the importance of travel, multiculturalism and how the English language can be a force of unity that goes beyond borders and unites us all." Max Johnson added: "By retracing Marco's historic journey, we hope bridges of mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and lasting collaboration can and will be built between China and Europe." The 90-minute documentary was supported by Global Education (GEDU) and the English Path language program. Mike Summerfield, the managing director of English Path, said: "This production exemplifies how language can unite cultures and break down barriers. We are changing lives through education across 12 countries, and we are immensely proud to support Stanley and Max's remarkable journey." Dale Templar, Managing Director of One Tribe TV, told the gathering: "At a time when the world is facing many challenges In the Footsteps of Marco Polo is a remarkable example of international film-making collaboration in action." His Excellency Zheng Zeguang, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the UK, expressed his own satisfaction at the close collaboration that had been achieved at every level between the China and the UK in the planning and execution of the project. "This is a truly remarkable initiative," Ambassador Zheng said, "which deserves the support of everyone. Mr Stanley Johnson's travel, like the story of Marco Polo, will help people in the UK to learn about the real China." Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2476332/GEDU_Global_Education_Logo.jpg SOURCE Global Education (GEDU) 6 august 2024 at 11:55 News published onand distributed by: Minister Boissonnault announces new measures to address fraud in Canada's Temporary Foreign Worker Program GATINEAU, QC, Aug. 6, 2024 /CNW/ - Canada's Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) program is designed as an extraordinary measure to be used when a qualified Canadian is not able to fill a job vacancy. When an employer hires a temporary foreign worker, they are required to provide a healthy and safe workplace, and to treat employees with dignity and respect. Today, the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, convened representatives from Canada's largest business associations with one clear message: the TFW Program cannot be used to circumvent hiring talented workers in Canada, and the federal government will take further action to weed out misuse and fraud within the system. During today's meeting, Minister Boissonnault outlined the following actions that are being implemented to reduce the use of temporary foreign workers in Canada: Enforcing consistent application of the 20 per cent cap policy for temporary foreign workers. This includes the policy for the "dual intent sub-stream", which applies to temporary foreign workers who intend to apply for permanent residency. Employers using this stream will be subject to more stringent guidelines; Applying a stricter and more rigorous oversight in high-risk areas when processing Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) and when conducting inspections; Considering LMIA fee increases to pay for additional integrity and processing activities; and, Looking to implement future regulatory changes regarding employer eligibility (factors such as a minimum number of years of business operations or history of lay-offs by the employer). Minister Boissonnault also informed business associations that he is considering implementing refusal to process under the low wage stream. If implemented, this would prevent employers in certain areas and industries from using the TFW Program. Additionally, the Government is working on modernizing the TFW Program with a new foreign labour stream for Agriculture and Fish & Seafood Processing, as announced in Budget 2022. The actions highlighted today are in addition to previous changes to this program that have directly resulted in an improvement in the quality, timeliness, and reach of employer inspections conducted, and a 36 per cent increase in fines issued in 2023?2024, compared to the previous fiscal year. While the majority of employers use the program for its intended purpose, more work is required to protect the Canadian labour market and hold bad actors accountable. The Minister will closely monitor employer demand for the TFW Program, as well as the employment rate, and is willing to take further tightening measures where required. Today's meeting is indicative of the Government of Canada's intent to strengthen its engagement with employers to ensure they have a clear understanding of their obligations under the program. Quote "I've been clear over the last year; abuse and misuse of the TFW program must end. The health and safety of temporary foreign workers in Canada is a responsibility I take very seriously. Bad actors are taking advantage of people and compromising the program for legitimate businesses. We are putting more reforms in place to stop misuse and fraud from entering the Temporary Foreign Worker Program." ? Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, Randy Boissonnault Quick Facts The TFW Program is designed to be responsive to changes in the labour market. Post-pandemic labour market needs were high, and a number of changes were introduced to help employers meet urgent employment needs. With the labour market returning to a more balanced state, the TFW Program is being readjusted to ensure that only employers with demonstrable labour market needs have access to the Program. This protects Canada's economy and Canadian workers, as well as temporary foreign workers. economy and Canadian workers, as well as temporary foreign workers. Employers found non-compliant with the TFW Program conditions could face significant penalties that could range from warning letters to Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs) of $500 to $100,000 per violation up to a $1 million each year. They could also face time limited (i.e.1?10 years) or permanent bans for more serious violations. A continually updated list of non-compliant employers is available on a public-facing website managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. to per violation up to a each year. They could also face time limited (i.e.1?10 years) or permanent bans for more serious violations. A continually updated list of non-compliant employers is available on a public-facing website managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. The Government collaborates with the United Nations' International Organization for Migration and participates in the Global Policy Network. To help promote public awareness, IRCC recently introduced fraud awareness campaigns, such as "Know the rules before you apply to travel to Canada from India - Canada.ca" and "Don't become a victim of fraud (international.gc.ca)". Individuals can report suspicious activities through Service Canada's tipline and dedicated pages on IRCC and GAC websites. awareness campaigns, such as "Know the rules before you apply to travel to from - Canada.ca" and "Don't become a victim of (international.gc.ca)". Individuals can report suspicious activities through Service Canada's tipline and dedicated pages on IRCC and GAC websites. ESDC administers a confidential tipline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with live agents offering services in over 200 languages, Monday to Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time . These agents can help workers and anyone else with anonymously reporting situations of mistreatment or abuse. The tipline also provides services to help inform workers of their rights. An online reporting tool is also available where temporary foreign workers or other concerned parties can report situations of suspected program misuse or abuse. Associated Links Follow us on X (Twitter) Follow us on Facebook SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada 6 august 2024 at 12:25 News published onand distributed by: Intellinetics to Host Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results Conference Call on August 13 Intellinetics, Inc. (NYSE American: INLX), a digital transformation solutions provider, today announced that it will report its financial results for the second quarter of 2024, the period ended June 30, 2024, on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, after the close of the market. Management will discuss these results on a live webcast at 4:30 p.m. ET on that same day. Interested parties can access the webcast through the Intellinetics website at https://ir.intellinetics.com/. Investors can also dial in to the webcast by calling (877) 407-8133 (toll-free) or (201) 689-8040. A replay of the call can also be accessed via phone through August 27, 2024 by dialing (877) 660-6853 (toll-free) or (201) 612-7415 and using replay access code 13748254. About Intellinetics, Inc. Intellinetics, Inc. (NYSE American: INLX) is enabling the digital transformation. Intellinetics empowers organizations to manage, store and protect their important documents and data. The Company's flagship solution, the IntelliCloudtm content management platform, delivers advanced security, compliance, workflow and collaboration features critical for highly regulated, risk-intensive markets. IntelliCloud connects documents to users and the processes they support anytime, anywhere to accelerate innovation and empower organizations to think and work in new ways. In addition, Intellinetics offers business process outsourcing (BPO), document and micrographics scanning services, and records storage. From highly regulated industries like Healthcare/Human Service Providers, K-12, Public Safety, and State and Local Governments, to businesses looking to move away from paper-based processes, Intellinetics is the all-in-one, compliant, document management solution. Intellinetics is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. For additional information, please visit www.intellinetics.com. 6 august 2024 at 16:20 News published onand distributed by: Minister Vandal announces federal investments to accelerate Indigenous economic reconciliation and critical mineral development in Manitoba The Government of Canada is providing $3,195,551 to support seven projects across Manitoba through the Manitoba Indigenous Critical Minerals Partnerships Initiative. NORWAY HOUSE, MB, Aug. 6, 2024 /CNW/ - Manitoba is home to deposits of 30 of the 34 minerals on Canada's 2024 Critical Minerals List. These include lithium, graphite, nickel, cobalt, copper and rare earth elements, which are the six minerals recognized as having the greatest opportunity to spur economic growth. Today, the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan, announced a federal investment of more than $3.1 million for seven projects to support key organizations and Indigenous communities. This support will increase economic and business development opportunities that drive new areas of job creation, improve the resilience of the workforce, and empower Indigenous economic leadership. Funding for these investments is provided through the Strategic Partnerships Initiative that supports the Manitoba Indigenous Critical Minerals Partnerships Initiative ? created to further support Indigenous communities to engage with, respond to, and benefit from mineral development and exploration opportunities based on their community plans and priorities. This initiative will result in coordinated approaches to capacity building, workforce development, and business development that reflect Indigenous priorities for economic development and mining. Examples of projects receiving support include: Norway House Cree Nation, is receiving $300,000 to complete a business plan and deliver training programs that support sector opportunities and partnerships. to complete a business plan and deliver training programs that support sector opportunities and partnerships. Marcel Colomb First Nation is receiving $387,957 to support the development and delivery of a Workforce Readiness Program to community members. is receiving to support the development and delivery of a Workforce Readiness Program to community members. The Communities Economic Development Fund is receiving $265,000 to establish and expand community economic development corporations and support Indigenous participation in the sector through business and professional development opportunities. A full list of projects can be found in the linked backgrounder. Quotes "Critical minerals are key to a green energy transition for Canada and the world. These strategic investments support a green Prairie economy. I am pleased that PrairiesCan is actively working with Indigenous communities to participate and partner on mineral development opportunities. Through these projects, Manitoba will be well-positioned to accelerate economic reconciliation and critical mineral development." - The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan "This investment will help Indigenous communities across Manitoba seize the economic opportunities related to the green transition. It will build capacity, offer valuable training opportunities and create good-paying jobs for Indigenous Peoples. This is part of our plan to build a greener economy that is fair to everyone, including Indigenous Peoples." - The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister for Indigenous Services Canada "Norway House Cree Nation is pleased to work with the Federal Government to provide training for our citizens to have the opportunity to work in the mining and exploration industries. It is essential that First Nation workers are able to participate in the resource industries found within our Traditional Territory and ensure benefits of these developments remain in Northern Manitoba. The development of the Greenest Nickel Mine will create over 750 long term jobs that can break the cycle of poverty. Norway House Cree Nation leadership is focused on improving the lives of its people now and for future generations through education and economic development." - Chief Larson Anderson, Norway House Cree Nation "The need for skills throughout the north, in communities, in industry, and all other sectors is critical. This program is an important first step in ensuring northern people have access to high quality, relevant training that will help communities realize their aspirations of progress and prosperity. UCN thanks PrairiesCan for the continued commitment to northern Manitoba". - Doug Lauvstad, President, University College of the North "Communities Economic Development Fund is proud to partner with PrairiesCan on this important initiative to bring resources that will support the start-up or expansion of First Nation Development Corporations." - Chris Thevenot, CEO, Communities Economic Development Fund "At the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (ICC), we have the pleasure of receiving funds for two projects under the Manitoba Indigenous Critical Minerals Partnerships Initiative. The first project enables us to support 36 First Nations businesses and communities to participate in the Manitoba Indigenous Business Showcase at the Prospectors & Developers Association Conference, in Toronto. At this conference, Indigenous business and communities are put in front of the largest mining, prospectors and developers in the world. The second project is Phase 2 of the Mining Readiness Assessment Engagement. This project allows us to assist 17 preselected First Nations evaluate their capacity to participate in the economic opportunities related to mining. Funding for both projects significantly contributes to ICC's work towards our goal of economic reconciliation as well as our work of promoting & growing the Indigenous economy by strengthening Indigenous knowledge, leadership and networking." - Susan Harlow, Project Manager, Indigenous Chamber of Commerce Quick facts Mining and critical minerals represent a significant opportunity for Indigenous communities through partnerships, equity agreements, benefit sharing, and capturing entrepreneurial opportunities from mining activities. Critical minerals are the building blocks for the green and digital economy. They are used in a wide range of essential products ranging from mobile phones and solar panels to electric vehicle batteries, medical and healthcare devices, and defence applications. Critical minerals support three primary value chains?Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Technologies, and Information and Communications Technologies. Mining is a longstanding driver of economic development and contributor to gross domestic product in northern Manitoba . . The Framework to Build a Green Prairie Economy is a principles-based approach to a prosperous, sustainable Prairie economy based on local and regional collaboration, and supports economic reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. Backgrounder The Strategic Partnerships Initiative (SPI) is a unique federal program administered by Indigenous Services Canada and shared by a growing network of over twenty federal partners. Its innovative whole-of-government approach helps advance Indigenous inclusion in large, complex economic development opportunities that span a range of industry sectors across Canada. SPI provides a way to fill funding gaps that create barriers to Indigenous involvement in economic opportunities. It also promotes partnerships between federal and non-federal groups to leverage additional funding and support for opportunities that are not otherwise eligible for federal funding. The Manitoba Indigenous Critical Minerals Partnerships Initiative was created under the SPI to support Indigenous communities to engage with, respond to, and benefit from mineral development and exploration opportunities based on their community plans and priorities. This initiative was designed in partnership with, and to support Indigenous Peoples and communities according to their self-determined priorities in the sector Strategic Partnership Initiative (SPI) - $3,195,551 Norway House Cree Nation ? $300,000 to complete a business plan and deliver training programs that support sector opportunities and partnerships. to complete a business plan and deliver training programs that support sector opportunities and partnerships. Marcel Colomb First Nation ? $387,957 to support Marcel Colomb First Nation to develop and deliver a Workforce Readiness Program to community members. to support to develop and deliver a Workforce Readiness Program to community members. Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation ? $200,000 to hold a Critical Minerals Conference for First Nations in Northern Manitoba . to hold a Critical Minerals Conference for First Nations in . Indigenous Chamber of Commerce? $143,297 to engage with Indigenous communities across Manitoba and complete a Mining Readiness Assessment. to engage with Indigenous communities across and complete a Mining Readiness Assessment. Indigenous Chamber of Commerce? $634,492 to coordinate and host a Manitoba Indigenous Business Showcase at the world-renowned Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada convention from 2024-2026 and support the attendance and participation of Manitoba Indigenous communities and businesses. to coordinate and host a Manitoba Indigenous Business Showcase at the world-renowned Prospectors & Developers Association of convention from 2024-2026 and support the attendance and participation of Manitoba Indigenous communities and businesses. University College of the North ? $1,264,805 to create and deliver targeted Train-to-Hire Mine Readiness programming to boost Indigenous and northern workforce to support growing sector opportunities. to create and deliver targeted Train-to-Hire Mine Readiness programming to boost Indigenous and northern workforce to support growing sector opportunities. Communities Economic Development Fund ? $265,000 to establish and expand community economic development corporations and support Indigenous participation in the mining sector through business and professional development opportunities. Associated links Stay connected Follow PrairiesCan on X and LinkedIn Toll-Free Number: 1-888-338-9378 TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired): 1-877-303-3388 SOURCE Prairies Economic Development Canada 6 august 2024 at 16:35 News published onand distributed by: Gold Resource Corporation Reports Financial Results for the Second Quarter of 2024 Gold Resource Corporation (NYSE American: GORO) (the "Company") is pleased to announce its second quarter operational results from its Don David Gold Mine ("DDGM") near Oaxaca, Mexico, and a corporate update on its other activities. 2024 Q2 Highlights include: Produced and sold 2,724 ounces of gold and 234,560 ounces of silver Produced and sold 1,771 tonnes of zinc, 197 tonnes of copper, and 491 tonnes of lead Cash balance of $5.3 million and working capital of $14.3 million at June 30, 2024 "During the quarter our drilling program progressed with positive results that will allow for further expansion of our resources and reserves and lead to a longer mine life that will strengthen our future planning for the company." stated Allen Palmiere, President and CEO. "We did experience some delays in production due to circumstances beyond our control. Excessive rains during the hurricane season resulted in ore too wet for the mill to handle, and we experienced abnormal work delays due to various social issues resulting from the lead up to the presidential election in Mexico. There were some positive offsets to these issues that included the US Dollar strengthening against the Peso and the metals we produced sold at prices higher than we had budgeted." Corporate and Financial: Net loss was $27.7 million or $0.30 per share for the quarter, which was after $16.5 million tax expense due to the valuation allowance recorded during the second quarter of 2024 on the DDGM deferred tax assets, $3.7 million in additional interest on streaming liabilities because of increased gold consensus prices in the second quarter, and $1.2 million of unrealized investment loss on Green Light Metals shares. Don David Gold Mine: In the second quarter of 2024, DDGM produced and sold a total of 5,625 gold equivalent ounces, comprised of 2,724 gold ounces and 234,560 silver ounces at an average sales price per ounce of $2,465 and $30.49, respectively. During the second quarter, the underground diamond drilling program progressed as planned and on schedule, utilizing two drill rigs generating positive results. Infill drilling continued to upgrade Inferred resources to the Measured and Indicated resource categories, particularly focusing on the recently discovered Three Sisters and Gloria vein systems. Infill drilling during this period continued to identify and give definition to high-grade ore shoots in the Sandy 1 and Sandy 2 veins of the Three Sisters system. Additionally, grade control drilling continued to prove up economic mineralization in veins scheduled for production in both the Arista and Switchback systems. There were no lost time incidents during the quarter, resulting in a "ZERO" year-to-date Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate ("LTIFR") safety record. Safety at Gold Resource Corporation is paramount. Even with a good track record at DDGM, the Company continues to strive each quarter for improved safety measures, awareness, and training. 2024 Capital and Exploration Investment Summary For the six months ended June 30, 2024 2024 full year guidance (in thousands) Sustaining Investments: Underground Development Capital $ 2,657 Other Sustaining Capital Capital 851 Infill Drilling Capitalized Exploration 786 Surface and Underground Exploration Development & Other Capitalized Exploration 2 Subtotal of Sustaining Investments: 4,296 $ 8.8 - 11.0 million Growth Investments: DDGM growth: Surface Exploration / Other Exploration 1,045 Underground Exploration Drilling Exploration 38 Back Forty growth: Back Forty Project Optimization & Permitting Exploration 347 Subtotal of Growth Investments: 1,430 $ 3.2 - 5.2 million Total Capital and Exploration: $ 5,726 $ 12.0 - 16.2 million Trending Highlights 2023 2024 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Operating Data Total tonnes milled 117,781 113,510 116,626 111,254 98,889 93,687 Average Grade - Gold (g/t) 2.33 1.59 1.52 1.44 1.89 1.27 Silver (g/t) 94 86 73 85 88 102 Copper (%) 0.37 0.37 0.32 0.39 0.37 0.26 Lead (%) 1.73 1.64 1.29 1.39 1.25 1.00 Zinc (%) 3.88 3.72 3.24 2.95 2.82 2.59 Metal production (before payable metal deductions) Gold (ozs.) 7,171 4,637 4,443 4,077 4,757 2,947 Silver (ozs.) 322,676 289,816 247,159 282,487 251,707 263,023 Copper (tonnes) 336 334 276 341 280 181 Lead (tonnes) 1,559 1,389 1,048 1,072 812 616 Zinc (tonnes) 3,837 3,569 3,223 2,884 2,310 2,020 Metal produced and sold Gold (ozs.) 6,508 4,287 3,982 3,757 3,557 2,724 Silver (ozs.) 294,815 274,257 208,905 258,252 216,535 234,560 Copper (tonnes) 332 327 245 327 264 197 Lead (tonnes) 1,417 1,317 947 820 667 491 Zinc (tonnes) 3,060 3,141 2,571 2,182 1,682 1,771 Average metal prices realized Gold ($ per oz.) $ 1,915 $ 2,010 $ 1,934 $ 1,985 $ 2,094 $ 2,465 Silver ($ per oz.) $ 23.04 $ 24.93 $ 23.61 $ 23.14 $ 23.29 $ 30.49 Copper ($ per tonne) $ 9,172 $ 8,397 $ 8,185 $ 8,205 $ 8,546 $ 10,428 Lead ($ per tonne) $ 2,158 $ 2,153 $ 2,196 $ 2,122 $ 1,977 $2,235 Zinc ($ per tonne) $ 3,195 $ 2,485 $ 2,195 $ 2,516 $ 2,483 $2,871 Gold equivalent ounces sold Gold Ounces 6,508 4,287 3,982 3,757 3,557 2,724 Gold Equivalent Ounces from Silver 3,547 3,402 2,550 3,011 2,408 2,901 Total AuEq oz 10,055 7,689 6,532 6,768 5,965 5,625 Financial Data Total sales, net (in thousands) $ 31,228 $ 24,807 $ 20,552 $ 21,141 $ 18,702 $20,782 Production Costs (in thousands) $ 19,850 $ 20,302 $ 18,957 $ 17,034 $ 16,108 $17,768 Production Costs/Tonnes Milled $ 169 $ 179 $ 163 $ 153 $ 163 $ 190 Operating Cash Flows (in thousands) $ 1,024 ($ 551) ($ 7,475) $ 1,783 $ 1,482 $(63) Net loss (in thousands) ($ 1,035) ($ 4,584) ($ 7,341) ($ 3,057) ($ 4,021) $(27,734) Loss per share - basic ($ 0.01) ($ 0.05) ($ 0.08) ($ 0.03) ($ 0.05) $(0.30) Q2 2024 Conference Call The Company will host a conference call Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Mountain Time. The conference call will be recorded and posted to the Company's website later in the day following the conclusion of the call. Following prepared remarks, Allen Palmiere, President and Chief Executive Officer, Alberto Reyes, Chief Operating Officer and Chet Holyoak, Chief Financial Officer will host a live question and answer (Q&A) session. There are two ways to join the conference call. To join the conference via webcast, please click on the following link: https://onlinexperiences.com/Launch/QReg/ShowUUID=0D108D2F-3118-477B-B61A-9FF14F9AF182 To join the call via telephone, please use the following dial-in details: Participant Toll Free: +1 (800) 717-1738 International: +1 (289) 514-5100 Conference ID: 76141 Please connect to the conference call at least 10 minutes prior to the start time using one of the connection options listed above. About GRC: Gold Resource Corporation is a gold and silver producer, developer, and explorer with its operations centered on the Don David Gold Mine in Oaxaca, Mexico. Base metals, critical to the United States, are also produced as a by-product. Under the direction of an experienced board and senior leadership team, the company's focus is to unlock the significant upside potential of its existing infrastructure and large land position surrounding the mine in Oaxaca, Mexico and to develop the Back Forty Project in Michigan, USA. For more information, please visit GRC's website, located at www.goldresourcecorp.com and read the company's Form 10-K for an understanding of the risk factors associated with its business. Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the following words: "may," "might," "will," "could," "would," "should," "expect," "plan," "anticipate," "intend," "seek," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential," "continue," "contemplate," "possible," or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. They are not historical facts, nor are they guarantees of future performance. Any express or implied statements contained in this announcement that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding the timing and scope of a process to explore strategic alternatives for the Company, including a potential sale of the Company. It is possible that the Company's actual results, financial condition, and developments may differ, possibly materially, from the anticipated results, developments, and financial condition indicated in these forward-looking statements. Management believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the time made. However, caution should be taken not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements because such statements speak only as of the date when made. Our Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law. These forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, including, without limitation: whether the objectives of the strategic alternative review process will be achieved; the terms, structure, benefits and costs of any strategic transaction; the timing of any transaction and whether any transaction will be consummated at all; the risk that the strategic alternatives review and its announcement could have an adverse effect on the ability of the Company to retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with suppliers, employees, shareholders, and other business relationships, and on its operating results and business generally; the risk the strategic alternatives review could divert the attention and time of the Company's management; the risk of any unexpected costs or expenses resulting from the review; the risk of any litigation relating to the review; and the risks and uncertainties described in "Item 1A. Risk Factors" in our Annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and those described from time to time in our future reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. 6 august 2024 at 17:45 News published onand distributed by: LIMERICK councillor Sarah Beasley has been selected to run for Aontu in the upcoming general election. With voters in Ireland expected to go to the polls later this year to elect a new Dail, she will be hoping to make it two successes in the same year. It came after the homelessness campaigner made history to become Aontu's first ever councillor in Limerick, taking the sixth seat on the northside. In contesting the four-seat Limerick City constituency, she will go up against Sinn Fein TD Maurice Quinlivan, whom she previously worked for. READ MORE: Major update on plans for new estate in Limerick Cllr Beasley says she will be relentless in holding government to account and actively lobby for vacant houses to be turned around quicker. She has pledged that if in government her party will ensure that a new emergency department will be opened in the Mid-West to alleviate pressure on the system. She said: "Limerick has the potential to be the jewel in the crown of the Mid West, but rising crime and anti-social behaviour is a blight on the city. This can be tackled by gardai on our streets and investing in youth programs to divert children and young people away from a dangerous and damaging life of crime. Drug and alcohol addiction is a huge problem, and we urgently need beds opened in St Josephs Hospital for people with addiction, and step-down facilities to ensure appropriate and smooth reintegration into society. Cllr Beasley says she will raise awareness of the dangers of drugs, and work with schoolchildren to ensure they hear real stories from recovering addicts about the impact of addiction and drug abuse. Since lockdown, Cllr Beasley has organised homeless outreaches from Aontus office on Thomas Street in the city centre. She also chairs the Rhebogue Residents Association and highlighted University of Limerick's overpayment, by millions of euro, for housing units designed for affordable housing which instead went to postgraduates. Mumbai: Vedanta Ltds cost reduction efforts, which saw it post a robust profit during the June quarter, will continue to bear fruit, helping the mining and resources major further improve margins, the companys top management said on Tuesday. One of the factors helping a structural reduction in costs will be the companys use of renewable energy for its zinc and aluminium businesses, executive director Arun Misra said. Using renewable energy will also help decouple the company from volatility in coal prices, he added. During the April-June quarter, cost reduction helped the company clock a 54% year-on-year growth in its consolidated net profit at 5,095 crore. The consolidated revenue grew 6% during this period to 35,239 crore. Our performance was primarily driven by structural cost reduction, Misra said during a post-earnings call on Tuesday. Almost half of our gain in profit was from cost reduction. Also Read: Tata, Vedanta, other business groups join the market upswing Amongst the companys cost reduction measures was backward integration in its aluminium business, Misra said. The countrys largest producer of the silvery-white metal added 1.5 million tonnes of fresh annual alumina production capacity at its 2 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) Lanjigarh refinery at the start of the quarter, reducing its reliance on imports. Alumina is an intermediate in the production of aluminium that is produced from bauxite ore. Similarly, at subsidiary Hindustan Zinc, the company modified its equipment to be able to use cheaper domestic coal, which has higher ash content, according to Misra. The efforts aided the companys margins, with its earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (Ebitda) growing 56% year-on-year to 9,420 crore. Ebitda margin expanded 865 basis points to 26.7%. One hundred basis points make one percentage point. Also Read: Vedantas cost cut push is good, but some concerns linger "The company has done a great job by bringing down the cost of production by 20% year-on-year," said Kunal Kothari, research analyst at Centrum Broking. The companys net debt grew to 61,324 crore as of 30 June, compared to 56,338 crore at the end of March. The net debt to Ebitda ratio, however, remained stable at 1.5 times at an annualized level, the company said in a press statement. Vedanta fundraise During the quarter, Vedanta raised about 8,500 crore ($1 billion) through a qualified institutional placement (QIP). The funds are to be utilised to pare debt further, which could help the company post one of the best debt to Ebitda ratio in the metals and mining industry. "The recent fundraise through QIP will help the company deleverage and better position itself to manage capex," Centrums Kothari said. Disciplined growth. Operational excellence. Exploring opportunities along the value chain. And an unwavering commitment to sustainability, Navin Agarwal, vice-chairman of Vedanta, wrote in a post on X. Also Read: Vedanta to raise $470 million from Power Finance Corp for energy business A foundation based on these has resulted in a great quarter and has set us on a path to a transformative FY25, he added. Sterlite Copper and ESL sale Vedanta is still exploring legal options for resuming operations at its shuttered Thoothukudi-based Sterlite Copper plant. In February, the Supreme Court upheld the closure of the plant, dismissing an appeal to reopen it. The plant was shut in 2018 following violent protests over allegations of pollution. Meanwhile, the company was in no hurry to sell its ESL Limited steel unit, which has been on the block for more than a year now. Googles loss in a historic U.S. antitrust trial is reverberating across Silicon Valley, where the ruling is likely to affect not just the search giant but also its largest collaborators and competitors. Google parent Alphabets deals to get its search engine in front of users by paying to be the default on browsers and mobile phones have been declared illegal by a federal judge. If Google doesnt successfully appeal Mondays ruling, the landscape will change for a search industry long dominated by one company and for partners that have shared in its plentiful advertising sales. Googles planned appeal could take years. The companys head of global affairs, Kent Walker, told employees he expects U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta to rule next on potential remedies to Googles behaviorwhich he had found to be monopolistica process that should take at least a few months. Walker on Monday said Mehtas decision recognizes that Google offers the best search engine, but concludes that we shouldnt be allowed to make it easily available." Heres what the ruling could mean for some of the biggest companies in the tech industry. Google Google now faces a range of potential consequencesalmost all of which would reduce the number of search queries it handles. The most extreme possibility, pushed by some antitrust activists, would force Google to sell its Chrome browser or Android mobile software businesses, ending its ability to directly integrate search into both. Herbert Hovenkamp, a professor at the University of Pennsylvanias Carey Law School and Wharton business school, said Mehtas ruling suggests he is more likely to put an end to Googles practice of paying to be the default search engine on devices and browsers from companies like Apple and Samsung. That would effectively leave each device or browser maker to select its own default search engine, or to impose a choice screen," Hovenkamp said. A choice screen" refers to a menu that prompts users to select between several search engines. Google predicted in 2020 that if it wasnt the default search engine on Apples Safari browser and iOS devices, it would lose between 60% and 80% of queries on iPhones and iPads, resulting in net revenue losses of up to $32.7 billion, according to Mehtas decision. That figure accounts for the money Google would save by not paying Apple. The analysis assumed Google would be replaced by another search engine. If users are given a choice screen and most select Google, it might save more money in payments to Apple, Samsung and others than it loses in search advertising, analysts said. Microsoft Long an also-ran in online search, Microsofts Bing would be the most likely beneficiary if fewer people search on Google. Microsoft repeatedly tried and failed to convince Apple to make Bing its default search engine, according to court documents and testimony. At one point, it proposed giving 100% of its search ad revenue on iPhones and iPads to Apple, or even selling it Bing. But Apple executives concluded the 36% share of revenue they received from Google was more beneficial, partly because that companys search advertising business was more robust. If Mehta forbids Google from paying to be a default search engine, Microsoft might become the most attractive replacement for Apple and Samsung. Even if the outcome is users being forced to choose search providers, it could benefit Microsoft. An increase of just a few percentage points in market share would be a big deal for Bing, which has struggled to crack 4% for many years, according to Statcounter data. Microsoft Chief Financial Officer Amy Hood said on a conference call with analysts last year her company would get about $2 billion in ad revenue for every percentage point Bing gains in market share. Apple and Samsung Mehtas ruling threatens the billions of dollars the two biggest mobile phone makers collect from Google. In 2022, Google paid Apple about $20 billion for the default placement on its Safari browser and iOS-run mobile devices. It also pays Samsung an undisclosed amount to be the default search engine on that companys phones. Samsung gets 80% of its on-device search revenue from queries through a Google search feature on home screens and Chrome, the pre-installed browser, according to Mehtas ruling. Instead of turning to Bing or making users choose, either company could create their own search engine. Building the technical infrastructure to match Google would cost Apple as much as $20 billion, according to a 2020 internal Google estimate cited in Mehtas ruling. OpenAI The uptake of generative AI sparked by the debut of OpenAIs ChatGPT in late 2022 has caused many to question whether traditional internet search engines will become a dying breed. People can get answers from ChatGPT and other AI applications, including one from Google, that they have traditionally turned to search engines for. In addition, OpenAI in July debuted an early version of a search engine it said would become part of ChatGPT, further threatening to disrupt a landscape long dominated by Google. If Google is no longer the default search engine on phones and browsers, more people could turn to AI as they seek alternatives. OpenAI has also secured a prime position for ChatGPT in a revamped version of Apples voice assistant Siri, an arrangement that could siphon search traffic from Google. The iPhone maker has said it also plans to make Googles Gemini chatbot available through the service, called Apple Intelligence. Mehta sounded a note of caution in his ruling on the potential for companies like OpenAI to compete with Google. AI has not supplanted the traditional ingredients that define general search," he wrote. News Corp, owner of The Wall Street Journal, has a content-licensing partnership with OpenAI. Write to Miles Kruppa at miles.kruppa@wsj.com Kiran Gems, a leading diamond manufacturer based in Surat, Gujarat, has announced a 10-day closure of its operations from August 17 to August 27. This decision, affecting 50,000 employees, comes as a strategic response to the declining global demand for polished diamonds, The Indian Express reported. Livemint could not independently verify this news development. Vallabhbhai Lakhani, the company's chairman, explained the rationale behind this unusual step: We have declared a 10-day holiday so that the production of diamonds can be controlled. Such a decision was taken for the first time in the company's history, The Indian Express quoted him as saying. This move marks a significant departure from the industry norm, where extended breaks typically occur during Diwali. The company hopes that reducing production can help stabilise supply and potentially boost prices, benefiting the entire industry, per the report. Kiran Gems, which claims to be the world's largest natural diamond manufacturer, employs a substantial workforce. "Over 50,000 diamond polishers work in my firm, out of which 40,000 cut and polish natural diamonds while 10,000 work in the lab-grown diamond unit," Lakhani told The Indian Express. The company, with an annual turnover of 17,000 crore, is also among the largest exporters of polished diamonds and an authoriSed buyer from De Beers, a global diamond industry leader. Notably, De Beers has reported a 15% decrease in rough diamond production in the second quarter of the 2024 fiscal year compared to the first quarter, further underlining the industry's challenges. Lakhani expressed hope that other diamond companies might follow suit with similar production control measures, potentially leading to a collective industry response to the current market conditions. Single malt producer The Glenmorangie Company supports the upcoming free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the UK, which will give British companies greater access to the Indian consumer, Caspar MacRae, its president and CEO, told Mint during a recent visit to India. "Our position is that we're supportive of working with the Indian government on a free trade agreement that allows better, more consistent access to the market. Of course, it is down to every state to set the rules, though," he said. Whisky was a hotly debated subject when India and the UK began negotiating on an FTA in January 2022, as many Indian associations were against such an agreement. India, however, is expected to allow the import of Scotch whisky in both barrels and bottles. Also read: Whisky writer Jim Murray's tasting notes Glenmorangie is therefore increasing its focus on India, which it expects to become its second-biggest market in the next five years as the high-end segment has been growing at 20% a year, MacRae said. Glenmorangie is owned by luxury conglomerate Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, founded by French businessman Bernard Arnault. MacRae said, "Very broadly, when we look at how the world drinks single-malt Scotch whisky, it's almost exactly a three-way split between the Americas, Europe & Africa, and Asia, but there's no doubt that in the past few years one of the most exciting markets for us has been India. The Indian love affair with single malt whisky and whisky in general is long-established. Almost 80% of all spirits consumed in India are whisky." Whisky business Indias single malt market was worth an estimated 390 million or about 3,600 crore, he said. "India's got a fantastic, dynamic economy which is performing very well. You also have 900 million people in the middle class, making it the second-biggest in the world. And GDP is growing at more than 8%, which is increasingly rare in the world at the moment," he added. Also read: Indian single malts make it large Demand shot up dramatically during the pandemic, and Indian malts such as Amrut, Paul John, Indri, and Gianchand became household names among the affluent. According to the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC), which represents the interests of these companies, about 675,000 cases of single malt whisky were sold in India in 2023, and more than half of these were produced in the country. That represented 16% growth over 2022, during which 577,000 cases were sold. "[India] is a fiercely competitive market. There is a lot of tension between rivals to make sure the pricing is effective." MacRae said, "We've seen the adoption of Indian whiskies and Japanese whiskies here. It's a fiercely competitive market. There is a lot of tension between rivals to make sure the pricing is effective. There are also some difficulties and challenges in navigating the Indian legislative environment. It's a market with great complexity." Spirits are down at LVMH Parent company LVMH recorded total revenue of 41.7 billion in the first half of 2024, but revenue from wines and spirits fell 12% to 2.8 billion from 3.18 billion in 2023. Profit from the wines & spirits portfolio was down 27% to 777 million in the first half of 2024 from the same period last year. Although the company did not specify which of its spirits businesses performed poorly compared to last year, this could be one of the reasons why it is looking to expand in "frontier markets" like India. The company said, however, that the performance of its wines and spirits portfolio reflected the ongoing normalisation of demand that began in 2023. "Consumption has slowed down in China. There's a mixture of short- and long-term issues there and some longer-term structural growth issues. The International Monetary Fund and other global bodies will be projecting slower growth for China in the future than, for example, India. I think that's related to some big demographic issues as well as their growth issues," MacRae said. Also read: Imported cheese and whisky? They may not have made it past Indias quality checks Globally, the single malt industry has been struggling to cope with growing demand for its product, which can take years up to 18 years to produce. Many companies are reducing ageing times for their whiskeys and phasing out the practice of displaying it on their labels to cater to the increased demand. MacRae said, "There are advantages and disadvantages of putting an age on a whisky. Most of these casks have to be aged for 30 years, and predicting demand that far out is not easy. Thankfully there is now a generation of consumers who are a bit more aware that age isn't the only component of quality." A US District Judge Amit Mehta has ruled that Google violated antitrust laws by creating an illegal monopoly in the search engine market. The ruling paves the way for a second trial to determine appropriate remedies, potentially including breaking up Google's parent company, Alphabet and marks a significant victory for government regulators in their efforts to curb the dominance of Big Tech companies, as per Reuters. In his testimony, CEO Sundar Pichai asserted that Google has developed a superior service for its users. The company contended that people prefer to use Google for searches because they find it highly beneficial. John Schmidtlein, Googles lead attorney, emphasised, Google is successful because it offers a better experience," as quoted by Hindustan Times report. Also Read | Google Doodle Today celebrates the Artistic Swimming events at Paris Olympics Mehta declared, "Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly." The tech giant controls approximately 90% of the online search market and 95% of smartphones. The case, initially filed during the Trump administration, focused on Google's practice of spending billions annually to secure its position as the default search engine on various devices and platforms. Judge Mehta noted that in 2021 alone, Google spent $26.3 billion on such agreements. "The default is extremely valuable real estate," Mehta wrote, highlighting the difficulty for potential competitors to enter the market. He added, "Google, of course, recognizes that losing defaults would dramatically impact its bottom line." Another trial and an outcome which hinges on breaking up Google's parent company, Alphabet, would significantly alter the landscape of online advertising, where Google has long been a dominant player. Also Read | The big picture behind Googles largest acquisition failure US Attorney General Merrick Garland hailed the decision as "a historic win for the American people," emphasising that "no company - no matter how large or influential - is above the law." Google, however, plans to appeal the ruling. The company stated, "This decision recognizes that Google offers the best search engine, but concludes that we shouldn't be allowed to make it easily available." The legal process is expected to be lengthy, with potential appeals reaching the US Court of Appeals and possibly the Supreme Court. This could extend the case into 2026. The ruling has already impacted Alphabet's stock, which fell 4.5% amid a broader tech sector decline. Google's advertising revenue accounted for 77% of Alphabet's total sales in 2023. The case is part of a broader push by U.S. antitrust regulators against Big Tech companies, with similar cases pending against Meta Platforms, Amazon.com, and Apple. Senator Amy Klobuchar, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee's antitrust subcommittee, praised the bipartisan nature of the antitrust efforts, stating, "It's a huge victory for the American people that antitrust enforcement is alive and well when it comes to competition." New Delhi: Jeep is aiming to bolster its position in the competitive Indian SUV market with offerings in the sub- 25 lakh segment, which has the highest sales volumes India. The brand, part of the multinational automotive giant Stellantis, has struggled in its eight-plus years in India Its models like the Compass and Meridian have made little headway, largely owing to their relatively high prices, and the lack of a 'mass-market' product. Now, it may be set to change that. "If we want to stay relevant in India, we have to play in the sub- 25 lakh market for SUVs", Shailesh Hazela, MD and CEO, Stellantis India, said in an interview. "It's (the plan) is on the drawing board. We are taking the time to understand what works, how we integrate, and how we can achieve our objective," Hazela said. Also Read: Jeeps could crash the party at GM and Ford "It is at the top of the leadership's mind," he said. Jeep could be planning a more affordable variant of its Compass SUV and an upgrade of its 7-seater SUV Meridian, in order to attract a broader customer base. While Jeep's sales in India have been impacted by the discontinuation of its petrol engine, export volumes are rising, with the Meridian being sold in markets like Japan and Australia. Notably, 40% of Jeep's volumes come from exports. Bet on Citroen Stellantis is also betting on its French brand, Citroen, to strengthen its presence in India. Citroen's upcoming launch of the Basalt, an SUV coupe, will compete against upcoming mid-sized and premium SUVs from Tata and MG Motor India. Shishir Mishra, brand director at Citroen India, said the brand plans to more than double its dealerships from 85 to 200 by the end of 2024. "The expansion will target tier-2 and tier-3 towns and deepen our presence in existing tier-1 markets we are present," Mishra said. "We have the confidence of our existing dealers to expand with us. We are opening Stellantis brand houses that will include both Jeep and Citroen for operational efficiencies. We're also introducing smaller format showrooms to reduce initial investment and help dealers reach breakeven faster", Mishra said. Citroen, which launched in India in 2021, currently has a portfolio of five products. Stellantis has invested 11,000 crore in India, establishing extensive export operations to Europe for engines and transmissions, in addition to vehicle manufacturing. Hazela also highlighted the importance of local engineering for Citroen in India. "The first learning we did for Citroen in India is to engineer our products locally. We didn't have a legacy in India and we wanted to become mass market. Our learning is that you can become irrelevant very soon if you increase the price. We didn't want to have the perception that a feature-rich brand is out of reach. We needed to make our cars affordable by integrating local solutions and local costs with local engineering. This long-term approach is what we follow in all our endeavours. We don't just copy-paste policies from Europe. Stellantis' culture encourages us to do what matters and do what is right", Hazela said, responding to a question on why some of the brand's products have some notable exclusions, such as a sunroof, or a start-stop key, or electronic seat adjustment controls. "We are taking the right actions and constantly evolving based on customer feedback. We are a young brand focused on action. It's too early to draw conclusions about our performance. We are in investment mode and committed to further investments in the country", Mehra said, explaining that Citroen will continue to invest in India and isn't seeking immediate profitability. Hazela, however, expressed optimism about Citroen's financial prospects in India. "We aim to achieve Ebitda breakeven soon. Our cars are engineered in India and are 98% localized, so there is no external factor that impacts us", he said. He added, however, that Stellantis India at large generated cash last year, and is on track to do this year as well. Jio Financial Services Ltd announced the international debut of its JioFinance app in Paris, on August 6. This expansion comes at a time when the French capital is hosting Olympics, attracting visitors from around the world, the company announced in an exchange filing. At 11:20 am Tuesday, Jio Financial's share price was trading in green, up 0.84 per cent at 319.65 on the BSE. The JioFinance app wil enable users to make digital payments at select tourist attractions in Paris. Notably, Indian travellers can use the app to purchase tickets for the iconic Eiffel Tower through its official website, La Tour Eiffel. Additionally, the app will facilitate in-store shopping at the renowned Parisian department store, Galeries Lafayette Paris Hausmann. A company in the filing said, "We're proud to announce the entry of the JioFinance app in the French capital, making it convenient for Indian travellers to transact digitally at key Parisian landmarks." The company has also established a presence at 'India House', a showcase of Indian culture and heritage in Paris, conceptualised by Reliance Foundation in partnership with the Indian Olympic Association. JioFinance has set up a dedicated experience centre within this venue, allowing visitors to explore the app's features. "India House is a home away from home for Indian athletes and visitors in Paris at this time," the filing added. Visa, the official payments partner of the Olympic Games Paris 2024, has partnered with JioFinance for its presence at India House. Also Read | For Reliance Industries, Jio remains the jewel in the crown The JioFinance app is designed to offer a comprehensive digital financial experience. The company explained, "JioFinance aims to offer a refined digital experience for all Indians at every step of their financial journey. The app caters to users across levels of familiarity with financial technology, ensuring effortless money management on their fingertips." When Henry Kravis and George Roberts handed off the day-to-day management of private-equity firm KKR to their successors in 2021, the two billionaires netted shares now worth more than $650 million. A new lawsuit is accusing the company of paying Kravis and Roberts but getting nothing in return. Their windfalls came from a complicated financial structure that has netted billions for other company founders and dealmakers in similar transactions. A spokeswoman for KKR said the deal offered substantial benefits to shareholders. The firm said the lawsuit is legally deficient and mischaracterizes the transaction. KKR expects to move to dismiss the suit, she said. The shareholder suit filed by a Steamfitters union local pension fund is one of a string of legal actions that are steadily gaining momentum in Delaware courts that could force many private-equity executives to hand back the payouts. Already, a healthcare company has agreed to pay $71 million to settle a similar lawsuit and judges have issued decisions in other cases that have largely been favorable to plaintiffs. The KKR suit takes aim at a payment allegedly tied to a tax receivable agreement, or TRA. TRAs are typically combined with specific corporate structures to create and share potentially valuable tax assets between the company and their early investors. While TRAs are increasingly common, they have also become controversial and prompted a raft of lawsuits against private-equity firms and some of their portfolio companies. Instead of the deals resulting in the tax benefits for the public companies, plaintiffs allege, boards have sometimes used the agreements to largely benefit the early investors, regardless of whether they create anything of value. This case is about two Wall Street titans who wanted to enrich themselves and their fellow private unitholders because their peers had done so," the complaint, filed in the Delaware Court of Chancery and made public Tuesday, alleges. The union pension funds suit names Kravis and Roberts as defendants alongside current KKR co-Chief Executives Scott Nuttall and Joseph Bae, other board members and the company itself. The suit is similar to other litigation undertaken against rivals Apollo Global Management and Carlyle Group, as well as website host GoDaddy. The cases are at various stages progressing through the Chancery courts, though judges have issued several decisions favoring plaintiffs in other cases. Healthcare company Premier agreed to settle a TRA-related suit brought by the same group of plaintiffs lawyers for $71 million earlier this year. A judge ruled another case involving a $344 million payment made to Carlyle founders and employees could proceed earlier this year. A case challenging GoDaddys boards decision to pay $850 million to early investors, including KKR, for obligations the company valued on its own books at $175 million, was allowed to proceed last year. Spokeswomen for Carlyle and GoDaddy declined to comment on ongoing litigation. The cases do have distinctions between them, however, prompting pushback from some of the firms. Apollo, for example, said in a filing that payments to its founders reflected that the firm had made significant TRA payments to rights holders in prior years and that some rights holders were relinquishing their control of the firm. Apollos lawyers also said the transaction had been negotiated at length by a conflicts committee of independent directors that concluded the payments were appropriate, and negotiated down from what the co-founders had initially requested. TRAs are deals between companies and early investors that help companies save on their corporate income taxes. The savings are generated when early, pre-IPO investors sell their stakes on the public markets. Most of the recent controversies around TRAs involve instances where company boards decided to pay early investors large amounts of money even in cases where the investors didnt make the sales that create the tax assets, or didnt make an amount commensurate with the payments from the companies. In many of these cases, several board members themselves stood to benefit from the payments the board authorized. The suit against KKR alleges that Kravis and Roberts initially sought 8.5 million new shares worth over $500 million at the time as payment for themselves and other TRA rights holders as part of a 2021 corporate reorganization of the firm. They got the shares despite the fact that neither man had ever sold a share that would generate a tax asset for the company. Instead, KKRs advisers determined the payment could be treated as compensation for Kravis and Roberts potentially giving up special shares controlling the company in future years. The lawsuit alleges that the shift was little more than a rebranding" of the TRA payout. References to TRA termination payments" were struck through at several points in board materials, though the payment itself was unchanged, the lawsuit alleges. The pivot during the reorganization also opened up another avenue for Kravis, Roberts, Bae and Nuttall to receive more stock at the expense of other shareholders, the plaintiffs allege. During the reorganization, the four men received an additional 3.3 million shares in unowned stock that had been forfeited by employees who left the firm before their benefits vested. The shares were worth more than $200 million at the time. Write to Ben Foldy at ben.foldy@wsj.com The Indian government is standing firm on its substantial tax demand to Infosys, the country's second-largest IT services firm, according to a government source who spoke on condition of anonymity. The tax authorities are not considering any relaxation in the demand, which was issued last month in accordance with goods and services tax (GST) rules. Also Read | Infosys share price Today Live Updates : Infosys Stock Sees Gains in Trading Today Infosys has reportedly sought a ten-day extension to submit its response after meeting with tax officials. The company is facing a tax demand of over 32,000 crore ($4 billion) related to services received from its overseas branches between July 2017 and the 2021-22 fiscal year. This amount is equivalent to approximately 85% of the company's revenue for the quarter ended June 30. In a notification to stock exchanges on August 3, Infosys stated that the demand for the 2017-18 financial year, amounting to 38.98 billion rupees, has been closed. The company has previously maintained that it has paid all its dues and is in compliance with central and state regulations. Additionally, in May, 2024, the Canadian government has fined global IT services provider Infosys CAD 1,34,822.38 ( 82 lakh) for underpayment of the employee health tax for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2020. Infosys disclosed in a regulatory filing that it received the order from Canada's Finance Ministry on May 9. Penalty imposed on alleged underpayment of Employee Health Tax for the year ended December 31, 2020, as per the filing. Also Read | Mint Quick Edit | Infosys GST bill defies logic D.D. Sharma, vice-president at Anand Rathi Securities, commented on the earlier stock movement: Infosys results just met market expectations and since its guidance was already built in, the stock is seeing profit booking. It had also run-up quite a lot in the past sessions, as quoted by Reuters. SoftBank Group Corp. is likely to report a small profit, an indication of how past mistakes continue to weigh on the company even as billionaire founder Masayoshi Son prepares his next big AI bet. Emerging from a month of sharp selloffs, the Tokyo-based investment firm on Wednesday is expected to report a net income of 1 billion ($6.9 million) for the June quarter, according to the average of three analysts polled. That compares with a big loss of 477.6 billion a year ago, but is tiny compared with profits in the preceding two quarters, attesting to the continued drag from hundreds of loss-making startups that remain on Vision Fund books. SoftBank is preparing to report earnings at a critical juncture. Its stock plunged Monday by its most since 1998, as investors fled global tech stocks partly on concerns over the time it will take for much-hyped AI to yield profits. The shares recouped most of that loss Tuesday morning, but SoftBanks market value was still down roughly $50 billion from a record high notched in July. A sustained rout would hurt the Japanese companys ability to secure financing, even as it increases the attraction of potential deals. The market turmoils also hurt Sons personal wealth, erasing a big chunk of his gains this year. Shares rebounded as much as 14% Tuesday morning in Tokyo. The earnings come as Son gears up for his next big gamble on the future of artificial intelligence. The billionaire has a large cash pile to deploy, after years of reining in investments. His ability to raise financing has soared thanks to Arm Holdings Plcs initial public offering last year, while earnings got a further boost from another sale of T-Mobile US Inc. shares to Deutsche Telekom AG as part of a 2020 deal. Shares of Arm the company that Son says will be at the heart of his next project are down about 40% from their peak in July, after it gave an unchanged outlook, citing weaknesses in markets other than data centers and high-end smartphones. Arm is trying to break into broader fields such as automotive applications. Son, who turns 67 on Sunday, has said that he is ready to swing for the fences. The company is working on a plan to deploy some $100 billion into AI-related chips, Bloomberg earlier reported. SoftBank bought British semiconductor startup Graphcore Ltd. for an undisclosed sum last month. The Bristol-based startup designs semiconductors to run AI programs, but has struggled to gain traction, even as larger rival Nvidia Corp. surged ahead. We see progress with entry into the AI chip business as a potential catalyst for SoftBank Groups share price, Daisaku Masuno, an analyst at Nomura Securities Co. wrote in a note last week. It would be positive if SoftBank Group were able to realize a wide range of partnerships with the hyperscalers. Here is what analysts are saying: Bloomberg Intelligence (Marvin Lo, Chris Muckensturm) SoftBanks AI investment strategy might not be smooth sailing with execution risk high AIs hype is fading now that theres a greater focus on AI companies ability to deliver revenue and earnings. The reality check could cap SoftBanks Vision Funds investment income despite a potential cut in the Feds rate in the near term The companys recent asset monetization boosted liquidity, letting it support an aggressive investment strategy Astris Advisory (Kirk Boodry) Concerns on tech growth have brought Arm back to where it traded in May. We think Arm shares got a bit ahead of themselves in July. The lack of a guidance hike added fuel to the fire SoftBank shares slumped 25% over past two days pushing the discount to NAV to an estimated 57% as of Monday It may be too early to call a bottom, but we do think it is worth highlighting that the discount is approaching record levels at 57% versus the 70% it reached when markets sold off on Covid fears Softbank shares may continue the slide that started mid-July. But Arms low free float tends to exaggerate share price reactions, meaning some recovery is also possible Macquarie (Paul Golding, Emma Liang) The Graphcore acquisition indicating SoftBanks interest in a vertically-integrated supply chain from processor design to chip manufacturing is quite bold but anchored by SoftBanks 90% stake in Arm The acquisition could meaningfully advance SBGs larger AI ecosystem aspirations, especially in light of the short supply of compute amidst surging demand for accelerators Given Arms pivotal role in SoftBanks AI strategy, collaboration among the two companies could unlock more potential from the AI ecosystem portfolio, thereby boosting SoftBanks NAV Citigroup (Mitsunobu Tsuruo) Zepto, the fast-growing quick commerce startup, is reportedly planning to relocate from its current base in Mumbai to Bengaluru. The company is set to shift its operations from Powai in Mumbai to Sarjapur in Bengaluru, Moneycontrol reported on August 6. A Zepto employee, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told the news portal, While the company has been flexible for now, we have all been mandated to relocate to Bengaluru by the end of November or early December. Livemint could not independently verify this news. The move is expected to consolidate Zepto's workforce, bringing together its business verticals currently in Mumbai with its tech and product teams already based in Bengaluru. This relocation will bring the company's approximately 1,700-1,800 employees under one roof. To facilitate this transition, Zepto is reportedly offering to cover relocation expenses for willing employees. The total cost of this move is estimated to be around 3-4 crore as a one-time expense. However, a source close to the development suggested that this cost would be offset by significant savings in rent, stating, the relocation cost will be offset because Zepto is estimated to save around 40-50 lakh in rent per month because of its move from Mumbai to Bengaluru, as per the report. The company is said to be in advanced stages of finalising a new office space in Bengaluru, looking at areas such as Sarjapur, HSR, or Bellandur - locations that are home to several multinational companies and startups, including Zepto's competitors Swiggy and Flipkart. Bengaluru: Indias top information technology services companies are spending less on hiring temporary consultants for some of their software-related work, portending an extended softness in demand but also signalling a significant shift in the traditional outsourcing model. Subcontractor expenses as a percentage of revenue for three of Indias top four IT services companies have dropped quarter over quarter over the last two years and are now at their lowest since December 2019, before the covid-19 pandemic made its way to India. Indias IT services industry is people-led, with employees accounting for about 60% of a companys overall expenses; consultants, who tend to be more expensive than a companys employees, make up 4-13% of the costs. Companies contract consultants from staffing firms when demand from clients outweighs their internal resources. This primarily applied to overseas deals where clients prefered for an IT services companys employees or contractors to be located at the site of the project. IT industry experts and executives at staffing firms attribute the reduced hiring of consultants chiefly to subdued spending by clients, as well as to a shift in business models as clients are now more willing to have their work handled remotely. While this should ideally help companies boosting their margins, most of Indias top IT services companies havent been able to return to their pre-pandemic levels. Also, even as the bosses of Indias largest IT services companies have hinted at a better 2024-25 as compared with the year gone by, they have been tempered in their optimism. Also read | From Wipro to LTIMindtree, IT employees irked by another delay in salary hikes Subcontractor costs for Tata Consultancy Services Ltd, Indias largest IT services company, dropped to 4% of its operational revenue of 62,613 crore in the June quarter, its lowest since October-December 2019, when its temporary worker costs accounted for 7.9% of revenue. For HCL Technologies Ltd, this figure dropped to 12.6% from 14.8% in the same period, and for Wipro Ltd, to 11.3% from 14.7%. The drawdown of subcontractor expenses is driven by the ongoing contraction of discretionary spending," said Peter Bendor Samuel, chief executive of Everest Group, a Dallas-based IT research firm. Discretionary spending often requires contractors to add expertise and onshore capabilities. As this spend has been reduced, the need for contractors also is reduced." TCS, HCLTech and Wipro did not reply to queries emailed onSunday. The outlier For Infosys Ltd, Indias second-largest IT services company, subcontractor expenses as a percentage of its revenue in the June quarter was about 8.1%, higher than the 7.5% in October-December 2019. Infosys has let go of a significantly high number of permanent employees over the past two years even as itwon many mega deals, making it necessary for the company to hire consultants where their clients projects are located. Infosys didnt reply toMints queries. TCS has also won a large number of mega deals over the past two years, but has managed to strike a balance between employee-hiring and contracting consultants. Also read | Why TCS boss Krithivasan is unafraid of GenAI, but unwilling to say the worst is past They (TCS) prefer to grow their own talent and have further focused on reducing contractors to keep cost low," said Samuel. They are also the most aggressive firm in moving work to India, where they dont need contractors." Despite this, TCSs operating margin shrunk to 24.7% in the latest June quarter, from 25% in the three months through December 2019. Infosys operating margin dropped to 21.1% from 21.9% in that period, HCLTechs to 17.1% from 20.2%, and Wipros to 16.5% from 18.4%. Changing requirements Typically, higher proportion of subcontractor staff is used for onsite engagements, i.e., where the IT services companies clients are located. Post-covid, customers were open to having their work done offshore, which is in locations where IT services companies are located," said a Mumbai-based sell-side analyst on condition of anonymity. Therefore, subcontractor costs which were high when these IT companies would hire subcontractors to work in clients onsite locations have now come down." Samuel mirrored the analysts opinions. Contractors are significantly more expensive than internal resources and are usually onshore," he said. As firms seek to reduce cost, they look to replace contractors with their own staff, which is also often combined with moving more of the work to India or other offshore locations." Krishna Vij, vice-president of IT staffing at TeamLease, a Bengaluru-based staffing firm, said IT services companies are also upskilling their workforce and reducing their dependence on consultants. Also read |TCS, Infosys witness dip in younger employees TCS ended the latest June quarter with about 606,998 employees, up from about 446,675 in the three months to December 2019. For Infosys, the employee count improved to 315,332 from 243,454 over that period, for HCLTech to 219,401 from 149,173, and for Wipro to 234,391 from 187,318. Despite this, the IT services sector has been battling increasing attrition. For now, subcontractor costs are expected to hover at the current subdued levels. This year, we believe subcontractor cost has bottomed out or will remain stable around this level, need not be an incremental lever," Samir Seksaria, TCSs chief financial officer, said at the post-earnings conference call with analysts last month. Also read | HCL starts FY25 on a soft note; bumpy path ahead The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) would need to finalize a regional free trade agreement (FTA) in phases for the promotion of investment, job creation, technology partnerships and services, according to study by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The study, Industry Partnerships for Deepening Regional Economic Engagement, recommended promoting a more favourable business climate between member nations, easing foreign direct investment (FDI) restrictions, improving ease of doing business, automation and integrating all relevant customs agencies into a unified system. The study, released on Tuesday during the inaugural session of the first BIMSTEC Business Summit in New Delhi, also recommended refining governance on dispute resolution, labour, intellectual property rights and innovation. Also Read: Private investments taking off; consumption growing: CII president Sanjiv Puri "Improving energy collaboration between BIMSTEC states through the collective development of a regional power grid, a dedicated fund for investing and promoting renewable energy businesses, and research into green hydrogen for commercial and civil use (is needed)," it said. It said the BIMSTEC Technology Transfer Facility (TTF) should promote increased technological cooperation and sharing in fields such as biotechnology, nanotechnology and pharmaceutical technology. It also recommended fast-tracking the BIMSTEC Transport Connectivity Working Group (BTCWG) for the implementation of the BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity as soon as possible. Also Read: India can maintain 8-9% GDP growth: CII president R Dinesh BIMSTEC links five South Asian countriesBangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, India, and Sri Lankaand two Southeast Asian countriesMyanmar and Thailand. It's an important platform for regional cooperation and connectivity for India, helping it to engage with Southeast Asian countries to counter China's influence. It allows member countries to work together on security issues like terrorism and cross-border crimes. While India hopes to strengthen trade and investment ties with its neighbours through BIMSTEC, an FTA, once finalized, could boost economic exchanges. Negotiations for the BIMSTEC FTA started in 2004. However, they are still ongoing even though member countries have signed separate FTAs. Also Read: Sectors linked to infra poised for new investments: CII president "With greater industry collaborations and joint projects, the BIMSTEC region and its member states could accelerate their efforts towards growth and development and derive significant benefits in terms of employment and income generation," the study said. New Delhi: C&I-focused renewable energy company Fourth Partner Energy Ltd (FPEL) has secured a funding of $275 million from a consortium of World Banks International Financial Corporation (IFC), Asian Development Bank and the German Investment Corporation, DEG. In a statement, the company said that the equity infusion would help FPELs business expansion plans and help it reach the target of 3.5 GW renewable energy asset portfolio by 2026. Out of the $275 million, IFC is investing $125 million, while ADB is infusing $100 million and Germanys DEG is putting in $50 million to complete this round of fundraising. In April, Mint reported that a consortium including IFC and ADB may invest around $250 million in the renewable energy company. Also Read: NTPC powers ahead with plans for expansion, renewable energy business FPEL has an installed base of 1.5 GW of green assets and is set to commission the first phase of its maiden 575 MW wind-solar hybrid project under the ISTS (Inter State Transmission System) route, in Karnataka, later this quarter. FPEL priorities Vivek Subramanian, Co-founder & ED, Fourth Partner Energy said, Our investors and lenders keep coming back as financiers because FPEL prioritises commercial viability and robust returns, while focusing on scaling the business. We welcome IFC, ADB and DEG as new partners to join our existing high quality equity investor base comprising of Norfund and TPG. Fourth Partner Energy is now poised to transform the regions clean energy landscape and assist more businesses in reaching their RE100 goals in a just, equitable manner. Imad N Fakhoury, IFCs Regional Director for South Asia noted that reducing the energy sectors carbon footprint is critical for realizing Indias green ambitions. Our investment will help FPEL to expand its renewable energy offerings and increase the supply of affordable, clean energy for commercial and industrial consumers across the country. Strategic investments in distributed generation through corporate PPAs are creating a new asset class, key to diversifying Indias energy mix, the IFC Regional Director said. Also Read: The push to store renewable energy in massive salt caverns Indias renewables sector is expected to attract an annual investment of $25 billion by 2030, and the commercial and industrial (C&I) consumer space has been attracting significant investments. For ADB, investing into FPEL includes $70 million from our ordinary capital resources and $30 million from Leading Asias Private Infrastructure Fund 2 (LEAP 2), administered by ADB. Providing commercial and industrial users in India with access to clean and renewable energy will foster growth of the sector while helping to achieve net-zero emissions," said Suzanne Gaboury, ADB Director General for Private Sector Operations. Also Read: Cement companies push the pedal on green energy FPEL combines rapid growth in building a solar and wind park portfolio with the high demands of first-class clients and can thus be a driver of CO2 reduction and energy transition in India. FPEL is currently developing additional capacities of 1.2 GW of open access projects across Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat; while continuing to focus on ISTS, on-site solar and battery storage as key business verticals, said Monica Beck, member of DEGs managing board. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Vivek Subramanian, Co-founder of FPEL said that about 90% of shares of the company is owned by the investors. Sita Ramam fame Ashwath Bhatt, who is currently on a short vacation in Istanbul, said he was assaulted by robbers while walking towards the popular tourist location, Galata Tower, in the Beyoglu district. The Bollywood actor known for his performances in films like IB71, Raazi, Sita Ramam, Haider, and Mission Majnu among others, said despite warnings about pickpockets in Istanbul, he did not expect such a shocking encounter in the country. Sharing details about the harrowing incident, Ashwath Bhatt was quoted by ETimes as saying, I was walking towards Galata Tower when a man approached me. He had a chain in his hand, and before I could fully comprehend what was happening, he hit me on the back with it. In retrospect, it was likely a gang working in tandem, trying to snatch my bag... for a second, I was so shocked - whats happening? But I think they werent expecting me to resist and put up a fight. While he was trying to snatch my bag, a cab driver stopped and intervened. The robber said something in Turkish and then fled. The cab driver saw my wound and immediately told me to go to the police. Adding that he was warned about pickpockets in Turkey but didn't expect such a frightening encounter, Bhatt said, Its unfortunate that such a thing happened, especially in such a touristy area. People often advise not to get involved and not to report to the police. That word 'unnecessary' troubles me. People watch films and think Turkey is all romantic, but if we dont report crime, these incidents will only increase. Everybody warned me about pickpockets, but this was beyond anything I had imagined. Ive been to the Middle East, Egypt, and so many parts of Europe, and nothing like this has ever happened to me. Ashwath stated that when he approached a patrol car, the officers asked him to report the incident to the tourist police, and he was directed to a police station. As per the report, a complaint is yet to be registered in the case. Mumbai: Shapoorji Pallonji group, controlled by billionaire Shapoor Mistry, on Tuesday clarified that it has provided security cover that is six times the value of the loan that it will obtain from the Power Finance Corporation. The construction conglomerate also said that it has received a formal sanction letter after approval of the PFC board on 14 June, even as the non-bank lender clarified that it is yet to disburse this loan. We are fortunate to work with PFC over the last 9 months to craft a unique proposal, that has a twin security structure leveraging the strength of the SP Groups large real estate franchise, as well as a portion of the Tata Sons shares owned by the Mistry family. This provides a security value in excess of 6 times of the loan value, said Venkatesh Gopalakrishnan, director Group Promoters Office, managing director SP Real Estate. The cash flows from the real estate franchise will ensure a full repayment of the loan over the tenor. The entire proposal has been validated by reputed third party consultants, he added. Also Read: Care Ratings downgrades SP Group entity's debt SP group had approached PFC for a loan of nearly 20,000 crore to refinance its existing debt. The conglomerate has raised a total of nearly 32,000 crore from global private credit funds and wealthy high networth individuals (HNIs) over the last 3 years in two tranches via non-convertible debentures (NCDs). The first tranche of 18,000 crore raised in 2021 was due to mature in the last week of May this year. The refinance loan from PFC was expected to settle this payment. In its statement, SP Group defended the PFC loan as a refinance not as a bailout from default Mint had reported on Monday that all the three independent directors of PFC have questioned the rationale behind giving the 20,000-crore loan to SP Groups main investment vehicle Sterling Investment Corp against the unlisted shares of Tata Sons, the holding company of Indias diversified conglomerate Tata Group. SP Group, is the single-largest minority shareholder in Tata Sons with an 18.37% stake. Tatas have already made it clear that these shares are not transferrable and the group is not planning to list Tata Sons' shares, which was a requirement under the RBI guidelines for upper later NBFCs. In the event of a potential default by the SP group, these directors believe that PFC will be unable to sell these shares to recover its loan. PFC's due diligence underway Power Finance Corporation (PFC) on Tuesday reiterated that the non-bank lender has not disbursed any funds till date to the SP group. During the analysts call, the management of the government sponsored PFC clarified that the due diligence process is currently underway, post which the board will take merit-based decision. The company had issued a similar clarification in June this year. Also Read: PFC forays into airport financing, sanctions loan for greenfield airport in AP ...as we have earlier also clarified on the exchange that the diligence process is still underway, and no funds have been disbursed till date. So we have also declared at that point of time that post the completion of the detailed due diligence, both will take a decision on the merit basis and will accordingly decide what would be the outcome of this deal, said Parminder Chopra, chairman and managing director, PFC, during the call on Tuesday. The Ministry of Finance recently made it clear in a written reply in the Lok Sabha that the government is not considering a law to regulate the transaction of cryptocurrencies. Currently, there is no proposal to bring legislation for regulating the sales and purchase of virtual digital assets in the country, Pankaj Chaudhary, Minister of State (MoS) in the Ministry of Finance, told the Lok Sabha via a written response. It is interesting to note that this is not the first time that the government has been evasive about its commitment to establishing a regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies. Also Read | Should you invest in cryptos in the shadow of massive loss by WazirX? Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently stated that there should be a global understanding on cryptocurrencies and merely rolling out regulations by one country was not going to make much headway into the space of regulations. In November 2021, Sitharaman in a reply to a question on bitcoin in Parliament had said that the government has no proposal to recognise Bitcoin as a currency. What industry players think? However, crypto industry participants are not too pessimistic about Chaudharys statement, which was released at the behest of the Finance Ministry since they pin hopes on a discussion paper on digital currencies likely to be released next month. The Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) secretary indicated just a few weeks ago that a discussion paper is likely to be released by September 2024. We remain optimistic and will look forward to this paper to better understand the potential next steps for the virtual and digital assets (VDA) sector in India," says R Venkatesh, SVP and Head of Public Policy, CoinSwitch. Likewise, Dilip Chenoy, Chairman of Bharat Web3 Association, also saw hope in the Department of Economic Affairs secretary's recent comments about the upcoming discussion paper on VDA policy. We look forward to studying the paper in detail when released for public consultation and offering our policy inputs. We applaud Indias leadership during the G20 Presidency last year in building consensus on crypto assets policy and adopting the G20 Roadmap on Crypto assets, said Chenoy. We urge the government and regulators to take a lead in formulating a comprehensive regulatory regime for Web3/VDAs in India, he added. Shivam Thakral, CEO of BuyUcoin, said, "The lack of clear regulations for the nascent industry is concerning, as it leaves the Crypto Assets sector unregulated in India. Establishing clear policies is important for fostering innovation and generating employment. This absence of a framework is hindering entrepreneurial investment and compromising security." CoinDCX refused to comment on this development. Markets watchdog, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), is ratcheting up pressure on asset management companies (AMCs) as it tightens the noose on potential market abuses. Sebi has imposed stringent new rules forcing AMCs to bolster surveillance and internal controls. This move comes amid growing concerns over activities such as front-running and insider trading within the mutual fund industry. The aim is to create a level playing field while safeguarding investor interests. Read this | Surviving the front-running storm: An investor's handbook While industry experts applaud the intent, they also warn of potential unintended consequences. Sebi mandates and their impact Sebi issued a circular on Monday amending the Mutual Funds Regulations, requiring AMCs to establish an institutional mechanism. "This mechanism shall consist of enhanced surveillance systems, internal control procedures, and escalation processes, enabling the identification, monitoring, and addressing of specific types of misconduct, including front running, insider trading, and misuse of sensitive information," the circular states. Feroze Azeez, deputy chief executive, Anand Rathi Wealth Ltd, said that this move by Sebi is intended to keep AMCs vigilant against unscrupulous activities. AMCs must have systems in place to stop any potential market abuse, and the senior management of these AMCs are directly responsible for making sure these systems work well," he said, adding that Sebi is attempting to make investment world safer for everyone involved. Stock exchanges, depositories, and Amfi (Association of Mutual Funds in India) is expected working together to share data, which helps keep this kind of scenario under check. Sebis regular reviews and updates show their dedication to keeping the market secure and trustworthy, boosting investor confidence," he said. Operational challenges and concerns Experts acknowledge that while these measures might initially increase operational costs, they are expected to create a level playing field for all market participants in the long run. The circular mandates that the chief executive officer (CEO) or managing director, along with the chief compliance officer of the AMC, will be responsible for implementing the mechanism. AMCs must establish an alert-based surveillance system, an escalation process, a whistleblower policy, and conduct periodic reviews. More here | Mint Explainer: How Sebi wants to prevent insider trading violations Ravi Prakash, associate partner at advisory firm Corporate Professionals, said that heightened personal liability for CEOs and compliance officers might deter qualified individuals from these roles due to the fear of repercussions from potential failures in detecting market abuses. Extensive surveillance raises privacy concerns, potentially affecting employee morale and increasing attrition. Stricter controls might reduce market liquidity and efficiency as AMCs adopt conservative trading strategies to avoid triggering alerts," he said. Prakash added that smaller AMCs with limited financial and human resources could struggle with resource allocation, leading to market consolidation with only larger players who can sustain the costs. Data sharing by stock exchanges and depositories with AMCs introduces risks related to data security and confidentiality. Whistleblower policies, while aiming to deter misconduct, risk misuse through frivolous or malicious complaints, resulting in unnecessary internal investigations and reputational damage to innocent parties," he said. Consultations and implementation timeline Earlier this year, Sebi invited consultations from all relevant stakeholders, including the Mutual Funds Advisory Committee, to establish an institutional mechanism at the end of AMCs to proactively deal with instances of market abuse. Following the Sebi quarterly board meeting in April, discussions were held with stakeholders, including the Amfi, to ensure smooth implementation of the institutional mechanism. During these discussions, it emerged that certain large AMCs were open to implementing mechanisms before the approved timeline of six months. Additionally, Sebi is examining allegations regarding front-running of trades of an AMC, which merits consideration for expediting the implementation of the institutional mechanism at the end of AMCs," minutes of the July board meeting of the regulator elaborated. Accordingly, the Sebi board proposed that while AMCs with large assets under management, say, 10,000 crore and above, may be required to implement the institutional mechanism on a fast track; others may be given up to six months for implementation. Arvind Ramesh, partner at Vritti Law Partners, noted that Sebi was aware that operational and procedural measures are time-consuming to implement. Advancing implementation of the institutional mechanism was not something it had considered in isolation. However, the consequences for non-compliance with the circular were yet unknown," he said. Also read | Sebis seven measures to tame the tail that's grown bigger than the dog" Kunal Sharma, partner at Singhania & Co., estimated that implementing the new framework could lead to higher operational expenses and disrupt existing workflows. Such a robust framework for deterring front running will give all market participants a fair chance to profit from legitimate market movements. This benefits both retail and institutional investors," he said. On 7 July, Amfi had issued a statement stating that Sebi's initiative was designed to reinforce their commitment to the highest standards of transparency, operational excellence, and investor protection. "We believe that these standards, developed by Amfi after consultation with industry, will not only enhance the integrity of our processes but also ensure that our investors can make informed and confident investment decisions", as per the statement. Bangladesh, a close ally of India, is currently experiencing political turmoil. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to a "safe location" on Monday following a new wave of anti-government protests that have rocked the country. The job quota that sparked the nationwide protests in Bangladesh provided reservations in government jobs to relatives of veterans who fought in Bangladesh's war of independence in 1971. As the situation in Bangladesh continues to deteriorate day by day, Indian firms with significant exposure to the country are expected to face the heat. From consumer goods to QSR companies, a range of sectors are likely to be affected, with some companies already feeling the pinch. In this article, we explore the Indian companies most likely to be impacted by the Bangladesh crisis and what it means for their future prospects. FMCG companies For most FMCG companies, except Marico, revenue from Bangladesh constitutes between 2% and 5% of their total income, indicating that the impact on overall margins may be limited. Marico, however, has a significant local presence in Bangladesh and has experienced strong growth in its international business in FY24 due to a steady recovery in the region. Over the past few years, Marico has been diversifying its dependence on the Bangladesh market. In recent years, Marico has seen a strong ramp-up in MENA (Middle East and North Africa) through the expansion of its Hair Oils portfolio, as well as healthy traction in the Hair Care and Health Care portfolios in South Africa. This growth momentum and profitability in MENA and South Africa have structurally strengthened the business, providing margin upside over the medium term. Additionally, in Vietnam, expansion into female personal care has created new growth levers for the business. Also Read | Now Bangladesh shows the risk posed by unresolved job crises The resultant geographical diversification within Marico's overall international business is reflected in the reduction of revenue and profit dependence on the Bangladesh market. The company's international business revenue, which was 51% dependent on its operations in Bangladesh in FY22, has reduced to 44% in FY24. The company plans to further decrease this share to about 40% by FY27, as per the company recent annual report. Emami, headquartered in Kolkata, West Bengal, operates six manufacturing facilities in India and one in Bangladesh. The company incorporated Emami Bangladesh in 2004, where it manufactures, imports, and sells cosmetics and ayurvedic medicines from its unit in Dhaka. For the financial year ending March 31, 2024, Emami Bangladesh reported revenue of 174 crore as compared to Rs.179 crore in the previous year, which accounts for 5% of the total company revenues. It generated a net profit after tax of 43.74 crore, up from 38 crore in the previous year. Dabur also manufactures and markets a wide range of consumer goods under categories like hair care, oral care, home care, healthcare, and skincare in Bangladesh. Other FMCG companies, such as Godrej Consumer Products and Britannia, have less than 5% sales exposure in Bangladesh, according to Avimnash Gorakshkar, Head of Research at Profitmart Securities. QSR space Jubilant FoodWorks has identified Bangladesh as a key market, significantly increasing its presence in FY23 by opening a record number of 8 new stores, bringing the total count to 17. The company implemented several initiatives, including menu expansion, packaging innovation, and the introduction of "Live Pizza Theatre" (live streaming of pizza preparation), which helped scale its operations. However, the Bangladesh market accounts for only 1% of the company's total sales. Luggage makers VIP has a substantial presence in Bangladesh, operating eight advanced manufacturing facilities, which account for 3035% of the company's total production capacity. The company has recently restructured its Bangladesh manufacturing facility, including reducing manpower, in response to the decline in soft luggage demand, the company said in its recent annual report. Textile firms likely to benefit Bangladesh's textile industry is a significant sector of the country's economy, accounting for 80% of its exports and 15% of its GDP. The country primarily exports textiles to the European Union, United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Over the years, Bangladesh has increased its exports to the USA, taking advantage of the China-plus-one strategy and geopolitical tensions between the United States and China. In 2018, Bangladesh's share of textile and apparel exports to the USA was 7%, while China's was 33%. By 2022, China's share had dropped to 22%, and Bangladesh's share had risen to 10%. Meanwhile, India has also benefited, increasing its share from 5% in 2018 to 6% in 2022. If the current turmoil escalates further in Bangladesh, it may lead international buyers to shift their focus to alternative markets like India. Indias gain will be an additional business of $300400 million per month if 1011 percent of the neighbouring countrys exports are diverted to Indian hubs like Tiruppur, Business Standard reported, citing sources. Indian textile stocks surged in Tuesday's trade, even as the main indices struggled to recover from a significant drop in the previous session. The rally in textile stocks was driven by investor optimism that the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh may prompt international buyers to shift their focus to alternative markets like India, which has a significant presence in the textile and apparel space. Bangladesh has increased its market share in the apparel industry by leveraging the China-plus-one strategy. However, with political unrest escalating in Bangladesh, reports suggest that international buyers may adopt a Bangladesh-plus-one strategy, potentially benefiting India from this trend. Against this backdrop, shares of Gokaldas Exports surged by 19% in intraday trading today, reaching 1,095 each and breaking a five-day streak of declines. Other textile stocks, including KPR Mills, Vardhman Textiles, Welspun Living, S.P. Apparels, Nitin Spinners, Arvind, and Himatsingka Seide, also experienced rally ranging from 5% to 17%. Turmoil creates opportunity In recent years, apparel buyers have increasingly diversified their procurement sources, favoring India. This trend is supported by Government of India's (GoI) initiatives aimed at enhancing bilateral trade through agreements and treaties. Additionally, apparel buyers are consolidating their vendor lists, which benefits larger apparel manufacturers in India. Despite these favorable conditions, Bangladesh has been outperforming India in apparel exports. The country has gained a larger share of global exports by leveraging the China-plus-one strategy and geopolitical tensions between the United States and China. In 2019, Bangladesh's share of apparel exports to the USA was 7%, while China's was 30%. By 2023, China's share had dropped to 22%, and Bangladesh's share had risen to 09%. Meanwhile, India has also benefited slightly, increasing its share from 5% in 2018 to 6% in 2023. Similarly, Bangladesh's share of apparel imports into the EU rose to 21% in 2023, while Indias share remained at 5%. Indian players face lower market penetration in the UK due to tariff disadvantages compared to Pakistan, Turkey, and Bangladesh. However, a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the UK could enhance Indias competitiveness by allowing duty-free exports. Also Read | Indian textile exports rise on demand from CIS, South Asian markets Bangladeshs significant boost in apparel exports has contributed to a record high of $55.56 billion in total exports for the country in 202223. Apparel exports alone surged to nearly $47 billion, exceeding the previous record set in 2022 by approximately 10.27%, according to the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). The textile industry has become a major sector of Bangladeshs economy, representing 80% of its exports and 15% of its GDP. The primary markets for Bangladeshi textiles are the European Union, United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan. However, the current curfew and internet blackout in Bangladesh were severely affecting the manufacturing industry, especially the ready-made garments (RMG) sector. Industry insiders project a 1520% decline in RMG exports for the next summer season (JanuaryMarch 2025) due to recent disruptions and factory shutdowns. Recent media reports showed that the European Union has postponed a new partnership agreement with Bangladesh due to the current unrest in the country. 'Well-Positioned' As the global apparel market evolves over the coming decade, China is losing its dominance due to rising labor costs, geopolitical tensions, and ongoing trade issues with the US. This shift is prompting buyers to seek alternative production bases, creating opportunities for major Asian suppliers like India. However, Bangladesh faces challenges from a foreign exchange crisis, and Vietnam is hindered by high production costs. India is well-positioned to capitalise on these changes, supported by a stable policy regime with the RoSCTL scheme extended until March 2026, government incentives for low-cost manufacturing locations, and the PLI scheme boosting investments in the MMF and technical textile sectors. Additionally, FTAs with the UK and EU hold significant potential for increasing textile trade. Marico share price plunged over 4% on Tuesday after the political unrest in Bangladesh which contributes to a major part of the companys international business. Marico shares declined as much as 4.43% to 642.55 apiece on the BSE. After days of massive violent protest, the political crisis in Bangladesh escalated and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stepped down on Monday and fled the country for a safer place. The countrys army will now form an interim government. Bangladesh contributes approximately 12% to Marico's consolidated revenue and accounts for around 44% of the company's international revenue. The company, in its Q1FY25 earnings presentation, said that it intends to bring down the contribution from Bangladesh to less than 40% of the international revenue by the end of financial year 2027 from 51% in FY22. Marico Q1 Results Marico, the Parachute Coconut Oil maker, reported largely in-line earnings for the first quarter of FY25, with a decent growth in net profit and topline, driven by 4% domestic business volume growth. FMCG major Maricos net profit in Q1FY25 rose 8.66% to 464 crore from 427 crore in the same quarter the previous year. The company recorded a 6.7% revenue growth to 2,643 crore from 2,477 crore, YoY. The companys India revenues increased 7.38% YoY to 1,926 crore. In the medium term, Marico aims to deliver double-digit revenue growth and double-digit constant currency growth in the International business. It expects operating margin to inch up over the next few years with leverage benefits as well as premiumisation of the portfolios across both the India and International businesses. Should you buy Marico stock? Analysts cheered the revenue guidance and margin expansion plans of Marico and have raised their prices on the FMCG stock. Marico is seeing good growth in domestic business execution on both, topline and margin. We like its topline focus, but any attempt to expand margin further would limit execution, in our view. We build in 10% topline/12% earnings CAGR over FY24-27E. Factoring in the better execution, we lift our target multiple to 47x from 42x, now at 10% premium to its historical avg fwd P/E, said Nitin Gupta, Senior Research Analyst at Emkay Global Financial Services. Also Read | Marico and Britannia cheer rural growth as FMCG cos pin hopes on monsoon The brokerage firm retained its Reduce rating on Marico shares and raised the June 2025 target price to 700 per share from 630 earlier. Maricos Q1FY25 operational performance was ahead of Antique Stock Brokings expectations. Post the Q1 results, the brokerage firm increased its target multiple to 50x PER (previously 45x) based on improvement in performance on management initiatives. It expects sales and earnings CAGR of 12% and 15% over FY2427E. The brokerage firm expects Maricos performance to improve on the back of distribution-led growth in the core portfolio, Improving profitability and contribution of food & premium personal care products (from 20% to 25% over FY24-27). It maintained a Buy recommendation and raised Marico share price target to 801 per share from 721 earlier. Given the companys market share gains and pricing power in the key franchise, Nuvama Institutional Equities raised FY26E EPS estimates by 4% and target PE to 45x from 40x. It retained a Buy call on Marico shares and hiked the target price to 780 apiece from 640 earlier. Key risks include adverse macros in Bangladesh which accounts for 1112% of the companys revenue. Marico share price has rallied more than 22% in the last three months, and Motilal Oswal believes that rich valuation will sustain given earnings acceleration. It values Marico stock based on 50x June 2026 EPS estimates to arrive at a target price of 750 per share and reiterates its Buy rating on the stock. At 10:45 am, Marico shares were trading 3.69% lower at 647.60 apiece on the BSE. A day after experiencing significant losses of 3 percent, Indian stock market benchmarksthe Sensex and the Nifty 50made a strong recovery on Tuesday, August 6, rising over 1 percent each. This rebound followed a recovery in global markets after the previous session's decline triggered by concerns over a potential U.S. recession, spurred by weaker-than-expected July payroll data. While experts remain optimistic about the Indian market's long-term prospects, they anticipate some near-term consolidation due to high valuations. To navigate this volatility, HDFC Securities has highlighted 7 large-cap stocks for long-term investment. Let's take a closer look. Stock picks Bajaj Finance: The brokerage has a buy call on the NBFC stock with a target price of 8,810, implying a 33.5% upside. HDFC Securities highlighted that Bajaj Finance is one of the largest and most diversified NBFCs in India, with a broad lending portfolio across retail, SME, and commercial sectors, and a strong presence in both urban and rural areas. The company has achieved impressive AUM growth of 35% year-on-year and maintained stable NIMs at 11.3%, though elevated credit costs of 1.8% annualised have impacted its performance. HDFC Sec anticipates that Bajaj Finance will continue its long-range strategy through FY28, with projected AUM CAGR of 22-27% and earnings CAGR of 20-25% from FY24 to FY28. ICICI Bank: The brokerage has a buy call on the private sector lender with a target price of 1,270, which implies an upside of over 8%. According to HDFC, ICICI Bank is the second-largest and one of the fastest-growing private sector banks in India, with deposits and advances of 14.1 lakh crore and 11.8 lakh crore, respectively, at the end of FY24. Although net interest margins (NIMs) are expected to moderate from the 4.4% reported in Q4FY24, the bank is projected to maintain industry-leading return on assets (RoA) and return on equity (RoE) of 2% and 18%, respectively. HDFC also noted that ICICI Bank has a strong balance sheet, with a Common Equity Tier 1 (CET-1) ratio of 15.6% and gross non-performing assets (GNPA) and net non-performing assets (NNPA) at 2.2% and 0.4%, respectively, positioning it well to gain market share in a competitive environment. Kotak Mahindra Bank: The brokerage has an add call on the private sector lender with a target price of 2,025, indicating an upside of over 14%. Kotak Mahindra Bank (KMB) has lagged behind the Bank Nifty index by 20% in recent months, primarily due to three significant factors: a CEO transition, a regulatory ban on digital client acquisition, and senior management changes. According to HDFC, while all three factors have contributed to the banks underperformance, the RBI-imposed embargo on digital client acquisition is the most impactful. The brokerage emphasises that KMB must focus on rebuilding regulatory confidence to address this critical issue and restore its performance. Larsen & Toubro: The brokerage has an add call on the infra stock with a target price of 4,033, implying an over 14% upside. HDFC Securities noted that L&T is the best play on the capex story in India and Middle East. During FY24, the company achieved an order inflow of 3 lakh crore, marking a 31% year-on-year increase, and bringing its order book to a record 4.7 lakh crore, approximately 2.2 times its FY23 revenue. Given this robust order book, L&T has set a revenue growth guidance of 15% and a 10% increase in order inflow for FY25, with expectations for improving margins. HDFC Securities remains optimistic about L&T due to its record-high order book, the anticipated stabilisation of infrastructure margins, better performance from subsidiaries, and increased public capital expenditure towards a green economy. Maruti Suzuki: The brokerage has an add call on the auto major with a target price of 13,612, indicating an 11.5% upside. HDFC Securities noted that Maruti Suzuki delivered impressive Q4FY24 PAT figures, driven by improved margins. The company retained its market leader position in the UV (utility vehicle) segment through a series of aggressive product launches. Exports rose by 50% in FY24 and are expected to be a significant growth driver for Maruti in FY25-26. Additionally, the auto sector outperformed the Nifty index in Q4, largely due to a strong rally in select 2W (two wheelers) and PV (passenger vehicles) stocks. State Bank of India: The brokerage has an add call on the largest public sector lender with a target price of 1,040, which implies an upside of over 28%. HDFC Securities highlighted that after a period of sluggish performance, SBI reported impressive results for Q4FY24, driven by strong fee income, robust loan growth, and stable NIMs. The banks asset quality continued to improve, with gross non-performing assets (GNPA) and net non-performing assets (NNPA) decreasing to 2.2% and 0.6%, respectively, and the provisioning coverage ratio (PCR) at 75%. Management has forecasted a loan growth of approximately 13-15% and stable margins, which are expected to support a return on assets (RoA) of 1% and potentially lead to a rerating of the bank. Also Read | Stocks to buy: Prabhudas Lilladher recommends these 3 picks for short term Sun Pharma: The brokerage has an add call on the pharma sector stock with a target price of 1,750, which implies an upside of just 2%. HDFC noted that the U.S. business is expected to see a slight quarter-over-quarter improvement, supported by steady performance in the specialty sector, gRevlimid sales, and stable Taro sales. However, this may be offset by supply issues at key plants in Halol and Mohali. In India, the company anticipates a 10% year-over-year growth, with a steady gross margin (+300 basis points year-over-year) but higher R&D costs potentially impacting the EBITDA margin. HDFC views Sun Pharma as a top pick in the pharma sector, citing growth drivers such as: (1) expansion in specialty pharmaceuticals, (2) strong performance in U.S. generics with new launches, (3) growth in India through market expansion and new product launches, and (4) a robust cash position that supports potential mergers and acquisitions. F&O ban list: The National Stock Exchange (NSE) banned trading in nine stocks on Monday, August6, in the futures and options (F&O) segment as they exceeded 95% of the market-wide position limit (MWPL). However, these stocks will be available for trading in the cash market. The NSE updates the list of securities in the F&O ban for trade every day. Also Read | Stocks are crashingthats a great reason to sit tight F&O ban list today Aditya Birla Capital Ltd, Birlasoft Ltd, Chambal Fertilisers and Chemicals Ltd, GNFC, Granules India, Hindustan Copper, India Cements, IndiaMart, and RBL Bank are the nine stocks on the NSE's F&O ban list for August 6. The NSE said the derivative contracts in these securities crossed 95% of the market-wide position limit and have been placed in the stock exchange's ban period. All clients/members shall trade in the derivative contracts of said security only to decrease their positions through offsetting positions. Any increase in open positions shall attract appropriate penal and disciplinary action, the NSE statement said. Also Read | Stocks to buy: Prabhudas Lilladher recommends these 3 picks for short term No new positions are allowed when the stock exchanges place F&O contracts in a particular stock in the ban period. On August 5, stock markets crashed nearly 3 per cent due to across-the-board selling in banking, IT, metal and oil & gas shares following a global equity rout, wiping out more than 15 lakh crore of investor money in a single day. The 30-share BSE Sensex plummeted 2,222.55 points or 2.74 per cent to settle at over a month's low of 78,759.40, marking its worst single-day retreat since June 4, 2024. During the day, the index tanked 2,686.09 points or 3.31 per cent to 78,295.86. The NSE Nifty slumped 662.10 points or 2.68 per cent to settle at more than a month's low of 24,055.60. During the day, it tumbled 824 points or 3.33 per cent to 23,893.70. Nifty also saw its worst single-day fall since June 4, 2024, when markets crashed more than 5 per cent due to general election results. Stock market today: Indian stock market benchmarksthe Sensex and the Nifty 50extended their losses into the third consecutive session on Tuesday, August 6, as investors remained cautious amid prevailing concerns over an economic slowdown in the US, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and the markets' rich valuations. Key indices opened higher and traded in the green for most part of the day. They, however, failed to hold altitude and ended in the red due to profit booking during the last hour of trade. The Sensex opened at 78,981.97 against its previous close of 78,759.40 and jumped over a per cent to the level of 79,852.08 during the session. On the other hand, the Nifty 50 started the day at 24,189.85 against its previous close of 24,055.60 and climbed over a per cent to reclaim the level of 24,382.60. The Sensex finally ended the day at a loss of 166 points, or 0.21 per cent, at 78,593.07. The Nifty 50 closed at 23,992.55, down 63 points, or 0.26 per cent. The midcap and smallcap indices underperformed the benchmarks. The BSE Midcap index fell 0.71 per cent, while the Smallcap index ended 0.57 per cent lower. The overall market capitalisation of the firms listed on the BSE slipped to nearly 440 lakh crore from nearly 442 lakh crore in the previous session, making investors poorer by about 2 lakh crore in a single session. "The domestic market tried to rebound, mirroring the Asian markets. However, momentum was short-lived and closed below the threshold level of 24,000. Investors are watching the appreciating Yen, weak US economic data, and rising geopolitical tensions," Vinod Nair, the head of research at Geojit Financial Services, observed. "Investors are now exercising caution and shifting towards defensive sectors such as FMCG, IT, and pharma. Nonetheless, the market is looking forward to the decline of crude prices and potential rate cuts by the US Fed and RBI to mitigate the downturn risk," Nair said. The Nifty 50 saw 21 stocks ending in the green and 29 closing with losses. Shares of Britannia (up 2.81 per cent), JSW Steel (up 2.35 per cent) and Tech Mahindra (up 1.74 per cent) closed as the top gainers in the index. On the flip side, shares of HDFC Life (down 4.28 per cent), SBI Life (down 2.43 per cent) and BPCL (down 1.84 per cent) ended as the top losers in the index. The markets went into a tailspin in the previous session on fears of a looming recession in the US after weaker-than-expected July payroll data. Experts believe it is too early to conclude that the world's largest economy is to slip into a recession. While there may be some signs of a slowdown, the US economy is not showing any clear signs of a sharp downturn. "It appears that the US recession fears are a bit premature and overdone. Investors need not panic. Quality largecaps can be slowly accumulated," said V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Financial Services. G. Chokkalingam, the founder and head of research at Equinomics Research Private Ltd., also observed that it is too early to fear that the US economy is to slip into a recession. There is no clear signal that the US economy is going to see a sudden and sharp crash. Experts pointed out that the primary reason behind the market crash was the high valuation globally, except for Chinese markets. There was a conspicuous mismatch between liquidity and market capitalisation. The focus now is on the monetary policy decision of the Reserve Bank of India. The meeting of the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is underway, and its outcome is due on August 8. Most experts believe the central bank will maintain a status quo on repo rates. However, a few believe that there could be a shift in the policy stance of the RBI. The technical setup of the market suggests some sort of indecisiveness. According to Rupak De, Senior Technical Analyst at LKP Securities, the Nifty 50 formed an inverted hammer pattern on the half-hourly chart, suggesting a possible bullish reversal of a smaller degree. Also, the index seems to have found support above yesterday's low. "Now, two things might happen: one, the Nifty might recover towards 24,400-24,440 (21EMA), where selling pressure is likely to occur once again; or, it might fall straight away to 23,965 (50EMA)/23,650," said De. Read all market-related news here Bharti Airtel: The company posted a net profit of 4,160 crore for the quarter ended June, doubling sequentially and jumping 158% from a year ago due to exceptional gains from a favourable tax judgement and divestment of its Sri Lankan operations. Consolidated revenue rose nearly 3% to 38,506 crore, while Ebitda came in at 19,944 crore, up 1% y-o-y. Ebitda margin declined to 51.8%. MD and CEO Gopal Vittal highlighted cost efficiencies, strong Africa revenue growth, and 6.7 million new smartphone customers in India with an improved ARPU of 211. ONGC: The company beat first-quarter profit estimates with a standalone profit of 89.38 billion, bolstered by strong domestic fuel demand and higher price realisation. Crude oil price realisation grew 8.8% to $83.05 per barrel, while revenue from operations rose 4% to 352.66 billion. Profit fell 15% due to the governments windfall tax on petroleum crude, and expenses swelled 19% to 253.71 billion. Its peer Oil India is expected to report results later this week. InterGlobe Aviation: IndiGo introduced its business class product, #IndiGoStretch, on the Delhi-Mumbai route with bookings starting August 6 for travel from November 14. Business class seats will be available on 12 domestic routes. The airline will also launch a loyalty program called IndiGo BluChip. CEO Pieter Elbers emphasized the premium quality of the new service, while highlighting Indias growing demand for premium services. Reliance Industries: The diversified conglomerate climbed to the 86th spot on the Fortune 500 list, the highest-ever rank for the company, with a market capitalisation of 19.585 trillion. The company had posted a 2.6% rise in revenue to 10,00,122 crore and a 16.1% rise in EBITDA to 1,78,677 crore at the end of FY24. Other Indian companies on the list include LIC, Indian Oil, SBI, ONGC, BPCL, Tata Motors, HDFC Bank, and Rajesh Exports. Adani Energy Solutions: The company raised 8,373 crore through a QIP to invest in transmission assets, smart metering, debt repayment, and general corporate purposes. The QIP RECeived bids nearly 6x the base deal size from various investors; CEO Kandarp Patel highlighted the strong interest from institutional investors and Indias robust investment cycle. Tata Chemicals: The company reported a 71.8% fall in first-quarter profit to 1.5 billion due to lower soda ash prices and subdued demand. Revenue fell more than 10% to 37.89 billion. Because of the oversupply in Asia and the EU due to Chinas economic slump and decreased EU demand for glass products, recovery may take 12-18 months. Marico: The FMCG company announced an 8.66% rise in net profit to 464 crore for the April to June quarter compared to 427 crore the previous year. Revenue from operations increased 6.7% to 2,643 crore. India revenues rose 7.38% to 1,926 crore, while its oil business contributed 72% of revenue growth, with Parachute coconut oil at 34%, Saffola edible oils at 16%, and value-added hair oils at 22%. EBITDA margin grew 50 bps to 23.7%, as the company focuses on diversification and premiumisation in India business. Mahindra Lifespace Developers: Ample Parks, a joint venture between Actis and Mahindra Lifespace Developers secured a 70-acre industrial land at Mahindra World City, Chennai, for an integrated industrial and logistics park. The JV plans to develop 2 million sq. ft of Grade A industrial and warehousing space with 800 crore investment, and aims to acquire 700-750 acres for 15-17 projects in tier 1 and 2 cities over the next 5-7 years. Aster DM Healthcare: The company plan to merge with Care Hospitals, to create Indias third-largest hospital chain with 9,900 beds. Private equity firm Blackstone owns large stakes in both the companies. The merged entity is to be called Aster DM Quality Care Pvt. Ltd. The share swap ratio of the merger is expected to be of 50:50. Further, the Moopen family will own a lower stake in the combined entity. Sterlite Technologies: STL appealed to the European Commission against anti-dumping duties on Indian optical fiber cable manufacturers. The company expects business to improve and return to profitability. STL anticipates benefiting from Indian governments anti-dumping duty on certain optical fiber imports from China, South Korea and Indonesia. Tata Power: The company received a letter of intent from PFC Consulting to acquire a project special purpose vehicle Paradeep Transmission. The SPV is to be developed on build, own, operate, and transfer basis for 35 years. The project involves constructing 2 x 1,500 MVA, 190 km of 765 kV double circuit transmission line from Angul substation to Paradeep, Odisha. Ambuja Cements: The company announced its first venture in Bihar with a 6 MTPA cement grinding unit at Warisaliganj, Nawada, Bihar, with an investment of 1,600 crore. The project is to be implemented in three phases, with the first phase of 2.4 MTPA targeted for December 2025. It is expected to contribute 250 crore per year to Bihars fiscal revenue and create 250 direct and 1,000 indirect jobs. Bharti Hexacom: The company reported a net profit of 511 crore for the June quarter, up 101.9% YoY from the previous year. Revenue increased 13.6% to 1,911 crore, with mobile services revenue up 12.9%. ARPU improved to 205 from 194, and homes and office business revenue increased 21.1% YoY. The company reported EBITDA at 912 crore with a margin of 47.7%, while EBIT came in at 416 crore with a margin of 21.8%. Brigade Enterprises: The company reported a 267.12% YoY jump in net profit to 80.5 crore for Q1FY25, with revenue from operations surging 64.8% to 1,077.7 crore. Real estate revenue stood at 707 crore, leasing revenue at 259 crore, and hospitality revenue at 118 crore. EBITDA jumped 67.3% to 292.5 crore with a margin of 27.2%, and pre-sales bookings stood at 1.15 million sq. ft., with a sale value of 1,086 crore. Deepak Nitrite: The company reported a 35.1% YoY jump in net profit to 202.5 crore for Q1FY25, with revenue from operations increasing 22.5% to 2,166.8 crore. EBITDA jumped 47.4% to 309.2 crore with a margin of 14.35%. Biocon: The company received an establishment inspection report (EIR) with voluntary action indicated (VAI) from the US FDA for its API facility in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, following a GMP inspection conducted in June 2024. BLS International Services: The company reported a 70.1% YoY jump in net profit to 120.8 crore for Q1FY25, with revenue from operations increasing 28.5% to 492.7 crore. EBITDA jumped 66% to 133.1 crore with a margin of 27%. Visa and consular business revenue grew 35.9% YoY to 414.1 crore, digital business revenue at 78.5 crore, and business correspondent segment witnessed over 3.5 crore transactions. Honeywell Automation India: The company reported a 32% YoY surge in net profit to 136.5 crore for Q1FY25, with revenue from operations increasing 3% to 960.4 crore. EBITDA grew 27.9% to 154.2 crore with a margin of 16.1%. V-Mart Retail: The company reported a net profit of 12 crore for Q1FY25, reversing a net loss of 21.9 crore in the previous year; revenue from operations increased 15.9% to 786 crore; EBITDA jumped 88.9% to 99 crore with a margin of 12.6%. Indian Energy Exchange: IEX reported its highest-ever monthly traded volume of 13,250 MU for July 2024, a 56% YoY increase. Electricity volume stood at 10,093 MU, while green electricity volume came in at 1 billion unit. REC volume rose 405% YoY to 3,150 MU. Indias energy consumption reached 145.4 BUs, a 4% increase YoY. Lupin: The company announced the incorporation of Lupin Lanka (Private) Ltd in Sri Lanka as its wholly-owned subsidiary. Separately, it received a centralized Show Cause Notice from the Maharashtra GST Authority seeking recovery of 336.2 crore in taxes, along with applicable interest and an equivalent penalty of 336.2 crore for the period from July 2017 to March 2022. Schneider Electric Infrastructure: The company's Q1 profit spiked 38.8% YoY to 48.5 crore in Q1FY25 compared to 34.9 crore in the year ago period, while revenue grew 19.7% to 592.9 crore compared to 495.3 crore earlier. Brigade Enterprises: The company's consolidated Q1 profit zoomed 268% YoY to 80.5 crore, compared to 21.9 crore in the year ago period, while revenue jumped 64.8% to 1,077.7 crore from 653.97 crore earlier. BEML: The company's consolidated Q1 net loss narrowed to 70.5 crore, compared to a net loss of 75 crore in the year ago period. Revenue rose 9.9% YoY to 634.1 crore, compared to 576.9 crore earlier. BLS International Services: The company's consolidated Q1 profit jumped 70.1% YoY to 120.8 crore compared to 71 crore in the year ago period. Revenue grew 28.5% to 492.7 crore, compared to 383.5 crore earlier. Motherson Sumi Wiring India: The company's Q1 profit jumped 20.9% YoY to 148.9 crore compared to 123.1 crore in the year ago period, while revenue grew 16.7% to 2,184.8 crore compared to 1,871.8 crore earlier. Triveni Turbine: The company's consolidated Q1 profit increased 31.9% YoY to 80.41 crore, compared to 61 crore in the year ago period. Revenue grew 23% to 463.3 crore during the period, compared to 376.4 crore earlier. Bajaj Consumer Care: Quant Mutual Fund bought a 1.89% stake in Bajaj Consumer Care at an average price of 256 per share while Goldman Sachs Funds sold a 1.69% stake at an average price of 256.02 per share. Huhtamaki India: Plutus Wealth Management LLP purchased a 0.66% stake in Huhtamaki India at an average price of 416.49 per share. A few months ago, on a rooftop in Koregaon Park in Pune, Sameer Patwardhan, co-founder of Kothrud-based Kimaya Brewing, hosted an Indian Pale Ale tasting session for a group of about 10 where he introduced a Cold IPA, which is brewed with lager yeasts rather than ale and at colder temperatures. Along the way, Patwardhan took pains to debunk myths about IPA, including the belief that IPAs were first brewed for India (Australia, in case you want to know). His tasting session in February was held just before the Deep Dive Beer Fest, the three-day craft beer festival held at regular intervals by Great State Aleworks (GSA) at the Great State Dive in the city. Whether you prefer the old-fashioned NEIPA (or New England IPA style that relies on hops for aroma and is more juicy than bitter, which remains my favourite) or are happy to experiment with Cold IPAs and kokum-flavoured beers, theres no doubt that Indias craft beer entrepreneurs have created a new set of drinkers where none existed about 15 years ago. When it comes to craft beer, Maharashtra leads the pack both in terms of having a passionate set of brewpreneurs as well as the user-friendly government policies. Its among the few states that permit kegging (where microbreweries can send their beer in kegs to other bars) and takeaways in growlers (plastic or aluminium one-litre bottles). The state government recently introduced laws that permit beer from its microbreweries to be exported abroad. Nakul Bhonsle, founder of Punes GSA who conceptualised Deep Dive, explains that although craft beer volumes in Pune are a fraction of Bengaluru, the ecosystem has been fuelled by conducive policies and a host of beer festivals for both the industry as well as consumers. Deep Dive, which had technical and brand sessions for brewers as well as pub owners, was followed by the two-day Poona Brew Out, a much larger festival, with sessions open to the public. Also read: Ladakhs newest cafe-cum-gallery offers a taste of the local The beer scene in India has evolved considerably since 2006 when Suketu Talekar and Prateek Chaturvedi set up Doolally Craft Beers in Pune, one of the earliest microbreweries, inspired by Singapores Brewerkz. It had required years of work to get Maharashtras liquor licensing policy rewritten to allow the setting up of microbreweries. At that time, it seemed like an impossible planbut Talekar and Chaturvedi were in the right place for it, and named their brand appropriately. Back in the days of the Raj, the British set up a mental asylum in the bucolic town of Deolali, near Nashik, corrupting the name to Doolally, and eventually using the term going Doolally for someone who was mentally ill. Doolallys founders were far from doolally thoughthe laws they got drafted in Maharashtra formed a template for Haryanas policy, which beat them to the opening. Howzzat at Gurugrams Galaxy Hotel now lays the claim to being Indias first microbrewery. Gurugram, unfortunately, didnt make the most of its first brewer advantage and the craft beer scene has languished. Its a telling indictment that the best fresh beer available in Gurugram is from the taprooms of giants like Brew Dog and Bira 91. Indias OG draught beer capital, Bengaluru was quick to seize the mantle of Indias microbrewery capital. With Bengaluru also Indias Silicon Valley, some of the leading microbreweries were set up by those escaping techfrom Toits Sibi Venkataraju to Geists Narayan Manepally and Windmills Ajay Nagarajan. Microbreweries and their close cousins, taprooms, have not looked back and now account for 80-90% share of the countrys craft beer industry, according to a survey my company did for a client in 2022. We estimated the craft beer industry at being around 1000 crore then. Although the lions share of microbreweries is in Bengaluru, Gurugram, Hyderabad and Pune, whats interesting is their spread to smaller towns. Ive drunk very quaffable beer at Ironhill in Visakhapatnam and Puducherrys Catamaran. A few months ago, I visited Shillong and discovered that Yeastern Civilisation, the first microbrewery here, serves a very nice Belgian Wit with excellent pork and rice. Apart from microbreweries being an extremely profitable business, with Indias larger ones clocking up to 100 crore in annual sales (40% of which is revenue from beer), what is also driving the growth is the fact that craft beer has got the attention of a rare breed of entrepreneurs who are geeks at heart, and committed to perfecting brewing. Many like Gautam Gandhi from Delhis Fort City and Navin Mittal of Mumbais Gateway Brewing started out as prolific home brewers. Navin Mittal, who founded Gateway Brewing Co in Mumbai in 2011, explains that craft beer means different things to the consumer and the brewer. For the consumer, craft beer has come to mean fresh beer, not bottled or brewed miles away and trucked to the bar. For the brewer, craft is about the passion for flavours, tastes and textures that you can create in beer. Ajay Nagarajan, an engineer turned entrepreneur who set up of Windmills Craftworks in Bengaluru in 2011, says craft vs bottled is the difference between freshly squeezed orange juice and that from a pack. This is why craft beer isnt retailed much in India, apart from the onerous and costly procedure of registering a fresh label for every new beer one brews. Anish Varshnei of Goas Maka Di says, Our cost of production is 3-4 times that of commercial beer, but were taxed at the same rate as they are. Its almost as if were being penalised for wanting to make good beer. In India, beer is not taxed by its strength or ABV (alcohol by volume), a prime reason for strong lagers accounting for 70% of the overall beer market. By all conventional logic, if beer was taxed by strength, wed see a move towards healthier consumption with the emphasis not on strength but on taste and flavour. GOING LOCAL Later that evening at Deep Dive, alongside the Woodside Inn NEIPA and the Oi Brewing Organic Stout, I drank a Cashew Sour brewed by Great State Aleworks, unusually tart and made from cashew feni. I could easily drink it for a while, or as they say in beer parlance, its sessionable. Its a beer that points to the rising trend of using local ingredients. Mango is a popular ingredient for ale, and in the west of India, kokum too. The use of local ingredients is a great way to introduce an unfamiliar beer style to a consumer through a familiar flavour. I also have a Millet Ale from Apiary Brewing, which uses local grains such as millet. The use of bajra and local varieties of rice is also on the rise. At Terra Mayaa in Guwahati, they make a lovely, fragrant Joha Kazi Lager, joha being a local strain of rice and kazi a local lemon. Drinking responsibly is importantand a few young brewers are also using the proceeds of their sales responsibly. At Delhis excellent Fort City Brewing, I tasted an unfamiliar White IPA, christened Moon Face. Brewed by Karina Aggarwal, a beer lover whose recent battle with cancer prompted her to collaborate with Fort City to create this brew, the proceeds from its sales goes to Delhis Hope Foundation to support women who need cancer care. Its an indication that craft beer is becoming a collaborative, community endeavour in India with the expanding brewing community eager and passionate to learn from one another and explore new styles, ingredients and flavours. An easing of the laws that restrict them in different states could help further unshackle and elevate this fascinating piece of Indias alcobev system. Know your IPA NEIPA or New England IPA: Also called the hazy IPA, its the most common style of IPA and is more juicy than bitter. Perfect to introduce a non-beer drinker to craft beer. West Coast IPA: A bitter, stronger beer than NEIPA White IPA: A hybrid of a Belgian Wit Beer and an IPA Cold IPA: Brewed with lager yeasts and at colder temperatures Besides heavy embroideries, what's common between the recent couture collections of Rahul Mishra, Gaurav Gupta, Amit Aggarwal and Vaishali S.? Using spiritualism as a concept to create garments. Gupta's Arunodaya collection, for instance, which was presented at the India Couture Week earlier this month, took inspiration from dawn, to present garments, largely in shades of blacks, pinks, golds and blues, depicting the idea of how first light of day breaks the darkness. It seemed like an extension of his Jyotirgamaya collection, presented for Paris couture week earlier this year, which also resonated with the spiritual journey from darkness to light. Aggarwal's offering Antevorta (used in Greek philosophy to personify the Goddess of Future) in Delhi's couture week, on the other hand, delved into the profound connection between time and the universe, highlighting that nothing exists outside its influence. From Gaurav Gupta's 'Arunodaya' collection Also read: Jayanti Reddy on giving Banarasi weaves a modern touch At the 2024 Paris couture week, Mishra, like Gupta, had referenced religious and cultural iconography in their own distinctive style languages. For Aura, Mishra took a departure from his signature blooms, fauna and foliage and referenced the Hindu god Brahma. The multi-layered collection attempted to decipher the various characteristics of the energy that surrounds an individual. Each individual is perceived to have an aura which represents their electromagnetic fieldlike that of the earthand their emitted vibrations that connect them to the rest of the universe, the collection note read. Vaishali, who had presented her couture collection in Paris around the same time, too, explored the concepts of ritualistic symbolism in her saris and dresses, using cording and handwork techniques to give the flat multilayered effect and a tridimensional flow of energy. Also read: Vaishali S. is ready to offer waste-free couture show in Paris Given the political unrest all around, it seems designers are increasingly turning towards ancient wisdom to find harmony in design. From Vaishali S.' 'Satori' collection Agrees stylist Isha Bhansali. She sees such collections as a great introduction to India. There was a time when people would associate India with cliches like yoga gurus, snake charmers and elephants, but this modern cerebral reinterpretation of Indian culture is refreshing, she says. It's the designer's way of offering an artistic introduction to Indian culture and its craft. Couture is an emotion. It's more of a feeling than mere clothing. It's about opulence embodied with spiritual significance, says Bhansali. "Traditionally too, couture has always been inspired by divine elements." According to stylist Ami Patel, such collections are "a true reimagining of the Indian Vedic heritage. The Indian Vedic tradition is so universal and not ritualistic. Even Gaurav's last 2023 collection, Shunya, was a beautiful reimagining of nothingness. Shunya is what you strive for when you meditate," says Patel. In a bustling Mumbai office, Krishna Tanna, a content writer experienced a moment of profound connection that reshaped her understanding of empathy. Struggling silently with personal issues, she was met not with questions or advice, but with a quiet, compassionate presence. Her colleague simply listened, offering a space where Tanna felt safe to express her feelings without fear of judgement. This experience was a revelation; it taught her that empathy is more than just an emotional responseits a deliberate act of holding space for someone elses experience. Also read: How role-playing games help forge world skills and enhance mental health Coined by psychologist Edward B. Titchener from the German term, einfuhlung, in 1909, empathy involves more than just understanding anothers feelings; it is about deeply connecting with their emotional experiences. Kratika Gupta, founder of Gen-Z Therapists, Kolkata describes empathy as the ability to put yourself in another persons shoes, to see their world through their perspective and feel what they are feeling . This definition highlights the dual nature of empathyboth cognitive and emotional. Tanu Choksi, a psychotherapist based in Mumbai, adds that this act of stepping into someone elses emotional shoes involves not only recognising their feelings but also feeling compassionately with them. She emphasises that empathy connects us deeply with others, enhancing our ability to support and understand each other . This connection is not just intellectual but deeply emotional, allowing us to share in others experiences in a meaningful way. Neelima Sadanand, a media professional based in Bengaluru, highlights the practical aspect of empathy, which involves actively listening and being present for others. She notes that empathy is about providing support in a way that meets the other persons needs. This perspective underscores empathys active and engaged nature, requiring more than just passive understanding. STRENGTHENING CONNECTIONS Empathy plays a vital role in both personal relationships and broader societal contexts. The benefits it proffers include: Enhancing personal relationships: Empathy allows individuals to form deeper connections, improve communication, and resolve conflicts more effectively. Choksi emphasises that empathy enhances emotional intelligence, helping individuals navigate social interactions with greater awareness and compassion . This is particularly important in building trust and intimacy, as understanding and sharing emotions creates a solid foundation for supportive relationships. Promoting altruism and community: Empathy extends beyond individual relationships to inspire prosocial behaviours, such as volunteering and charitable acts, which are crucial for a healthy society. Shambhavi Kumaria, a counselling psychologist based in Chandigarh, points out that empathy promotes altruistic actions and fosters a sense of community by encouraging people to help others and support societal well-being . This sense of shared humanity can lead to more cohesive and supportive communities. Reducing prejudice and enhancing inclusivity: By fostering an understanding of diverse perspectives, empathy can break down societal barriers and reduce prejudice. Gupta explains that empathy helps individuals see beyond their biases and appreciate the experiences of others, which is essential for fostering inclusivity and reducing discrimination . This understanding is crucial in creating environments where diversity is celebrated and differences are respected. Supporting mental health: Empathy is crucial in supporting mental health, both individually and collectively. It fosters environments where people feel understood and supported, reducing the stigma around mental health issues and encouraging open discussions. Choksi emphasises that empathy in mental health contexts helps individuals feel seen and validated, which is crucial for healing and personal growth. BUILDING AWARENESS Cultivating empathy is an ongoing process that involves deliberate practice and self-awareness. Fostering it includes the components of: Active listening and mindfulness: Active listening is a foundational skill for empathy. It involves fully engaging with the speaker, without interruption or judgement, which helps in understanding their emotions and experiences. Mindfulness enhances this by helping individuals stay present and attuned to their own and others emotional states. Self-awareness and emotional reflection: Understanding and managing ones own emotions are critical for developing empathy. Not only does this self-reflection help regulate ones emotions, it also helps in identifying personal biases and improving ones capacity to empathise authentically. BOUNDARIES ARE IMPORTANT While empathy is a powerful tool for building connections and promoting social harmony, it is not without its challenges. Highly empathetic individuals often struggle with emotional overwhelm and burnout. Setting boundaries is essential to maintain emotional well-being. Sadanand discusses the challenge of balancing empathy with self-care, stressing the importance of not sacrificing ones own well-being for others . Gupta notes that empathetic individuals often feel physically and emotionally drained, highlighting the importance of recognizing these challenges and addressing them proactively. Kumaria says that empaths need to learn how to protect their emotional well-being through practices like therapy, mindfulness and setting clear personal boundaries. Maintaining a balance between empathy and self-care is crucial for sustaining ones capacity to empathise without succumbing to emotional burnout, she notes. In a world often marked by division and misunderstanding, empathy is not just a personal virtue but a societal necessity. It fosters deeper understanding and compassion, crucial for building resilient personal relationships and cohesive communities. By developing empathy, we enhance our emotional intelligence and contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive world. MUMBAI : A profit of 1,878 turned into a penalty of 1 lakh. This harsh reality encapsulates the high-stakes world of insider trading. Sudhir Bapusaheb Devkar, an IT department employee at Mindtree, found himself on the wrong side of the law when a seemingly harmless trade in his employers stock spiralled into a financial nightmare. His case serves as a stark reminder of the complex and often misunderstood regulations surrounding insider trading. Devkar's dream of supplementing his income through day trading was shattered when he was penalized 1 lakh for trading in his employers stock without proper disclosure. I have always worked in the area of engineering and technology and have never had any knowledge of any areas of finance concerning the company," Devkar said in response to an order by markets regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), dated 29 June 2022. These provisions were not widely publicized for a layman like me to know that such a provision exists." Despite his plea, Sebi imposed the minimum penalty of 1 lakh for the offense. According to Abhishek Dadoo, partner at Khaitan and Co., these rules are designed to prevent those with unpublished price-sensitive information (UPSI) from short-changing unsuspecting investors. However, this incident illustrates how individuals without knowledge of these regulations can inadvertently find themselves penalized. In August 2020, Sebi had sent a letter to Mindtree, requesting a list of individuals subject to its insider trading regulations. This inquiry revealed that Devkar had traded Mindtree stock on three separate occasions without disclosure. At that time, employees had to report trades exceeding 10 lakh in their employers shares within two trading days. Sebi has since updated its regulations, replacing "employees" with "designated persons." In this article, we will address key questions to help employees avoid violating regulations. View Full Image (Graphics: Pranay Bhardwaj/Mint) Who are designated persons? If you work for a listed company, the first step is to determine whether you are classified as a designated person. In large companies like Reliance Industries Ltd or Infosys Ltd, it is challenging to monitor every employee. Read this | Mint Explainer: How Sebi wants to prevent insider trading violations Thus, Sebi mandates that only select employees, designated by their role, function, and access to UPSI, are bound by strict disclosure norms. The board of directors identifies these designated persons, typically employees two levels below the chief executive and others with significant access to UPSI. Every company can decide who they want as a designated person," Dadoo said. On a lighter note, sometimes an employee carrying tea can have as much UPSI as someone in admin or day-to-day operations." Trading restrictions Designated employees, along with promoters, directors, and others covered under the regulations, can only trade in their companys stock when the trading window is open. They and their immediate relatives are prohibited from trading when the window is closed, from the end of every quarter until 48 hours after the financial results are announced. Exceptions are made for trades between insiders with the same UPSI, stock options with pre-determined exercise prices, and pre-approved trading plans (see Grfx). Companies may require pre-clearance for trades above a certain thresholdInfosys, for example, sets this at 5 lakh. Pre-clearance expires after seven days, and contra-trades are forbidden for the next six months. To seek pre-clearance, applicants must declare they do not possess any UPSI. Top executives like CEOs or promoters, who have constant access to UPSI, may use a trading plan. Additionally, designated persons must disclose any trades exceeding 10 lakh within two days. Stock exchanges have surveillance mechanisms to detect and report suspicious trades to Sebi. If you are an employee and trading in the stocks without disclosure, then the onus is on them to prove their innocence. If the trade was carried by an outsider, the burden is on the complainant to prove that the person is guilty," Dadoo explained. The regulations also cover trades by immediate relatives, such as parents and spouses. There are two categories: those financially dependent on the designated person and those who are not. Dadoo advises that financially dependent relatives should avoid trading in the companys stock to prevent complications. For non-dependent relatives, caution is still recommended if there is potential UPSI. Do relatives come under the purview? Dadoo said that the regulations extend to trading by immediate relatives, such as parents and spouses. These relatives fall into two categories: those who are financially dependent on the designated person and those who are not. He advised that financially dependent relatives should avoid trading in the companys stock to prevent any potential complications. For non-dependent relatives, the situation is more complex. To avoid unnecessary issues, Dadoo recommends that they also refrain from trading in the companys stock if there is potential UPSI with the employee. What about external parties? Third-party firms often have access to sensitive information during significant transactions or financial announcements. For example, when Reliance Industries acquired Just Dial, the lawyer handling the contract details would have known about the deal and could potentially benefit from this information. Similarly, chartered accountants, insolvency professionals, consultants, bankers etc., who assist or advice listed companies have access to critical financial information about public companies. More here | Religare chief broke insider trade laws: Burmans The market regulator mandates that such entities formulate a formal code of conduct to avoid insider trading. Dadoo said the same approach applies to any person/third party in possession of UPSI." Safer investment alternatives Experts suggest investing through mutual funds to stay on the safe side of Prohibition of Insider Trading regulations. Also read | Sebis seven measures to tame the tail that's grown bigger than the dog" The key rule is to determine whether you have control over the underlying securities of the fund. Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) are treated similarly to mutual funds since both are pooled investment vehicles, and unitholders do not influence the fund manager's choices. Conversely, Portfolio Management Services (PMS) are akin to holding shares in a personal account, as investors can override the fund managers decisions. If a PMS fund manager purchases stock in your employers company, you could be held accountable. As Japanese currency Yen hits seven-month high against US dollar, there are concerns around the higher cost that would lead to woes for Indian travellers. In the past one month, Yen has risen by 10.84 percent against the US dollar, as per the data revealed on XE.com. Japanese Yen traded at 0.0068962 USD (1 JPY) on Tuesday at 10:38 UTC, shows XE.com data. Although it is now trading at its seven-month high, it is marginally lower than its one-year high figure. While Japan does not get a substantial number of travellers from India, the total number of trips by Indians in 2023 to Japan stood at 1,66,394. In May 2024 alone, there were nearly 29,100 trips by Indians to Japan. Indians to Japan: A statistical roundup In 2023 1.66 lakh Proportion of all travellers worldwide 0.7% In May 2024 29,100 Current flight ticket (Delhi to Tokyo) 32,000 to 33,000 Usual flight ticket (Delhi to Tokyo) 25,000 to 28,000 (Source: Japan National Tourism Organization, MakeMyTrip) A one-week trip to Japan costs anywhere between one lakh and 2 lakh depending on the travel package you opt for. A flight ticket to Tokyo which normally is available for anywhere between 25,000 and 28,000 is currently available for 32,000 to 33,000. Staying in Japanese hotels is quite affordable i.e., you can get to stay in a mid-range hotel for anywhere between 5,000 and 10,000 a day. Cost rises with Yen Now with Yen being higher by around 10 percent vis-a-vis its price one month ago, the overall cost for travelling in Japan for international travellers will naturally go higher. Also Read | Indian borrowers take fancy to Japanese debt For instance, what came for 5,000 will now cost 5,500 and likewise, a trip that would have cost you around 1.5 lakh a month ago may now cost around 1.65 lakh. (Bloomberg) -- Airbnb Inc. gave a disappointing outlook for a third consecutive quarter as it warned of slowing demand from US travelers a sign that momentum in travel spending will continue to taper off even during the peak summer season. The company expects sequential moderation of growth on the key metric of nights and experiences booked in the current period, the company said Tuesday in a letter to shareholders. As it is, Airbnb posted an 8.7% gain for the most recent quarter, falling short of investors estimates. Third-quarter gains will be even flatter, then, while analysts had been projecting an 11% boost. This sets up the slowest pace of growth since 2020 as demand and travel habits return to normal following an especially brisk vacation season in 2023 that coincided with the formal end of the Covid-19 pandemic headwinds that have dogged the broader industry. Last week, Booking Holdings Inc. gave worse-than-expected guidance, blaming mild moderation in the European travel market and mild indication of some consumers opting for lower-star hotels and shorter stays, particularly in the US. We are seeing shorter booking lead times globally and some signs of slowing demand from US guests, Airbnb said in the letter regarding recent booking trends. Latin America and Asia Pacific continue to be its fastest-growing regions, it added. Shares of Airbnb plunged more than 10% in extended trading on Tuesday. The companys revenue for the current quarter will be $3.67 billion to $3.73 billion, also falling short of analysts consensus of $3.84 billion, with the company blaming foreign exchange headwinds. Its second-quarter revenue beat estimates, jumping 11% to $2.75 billion. Nights booked rose 8.7%, falling short of the 9.8% increase analysts were expecting. Airbnb, which specializes in shared homes and vacation rentals in both cities and rural locales, saw a slight acceleration in growth of North American nights booked in the second quarter. It highlighted the week of July 4 as the single highest week of revenue ever in the region. The company also saw particularly strong gains among larger parties after honing its marketing materials in the US to convince more groups to choose multi-bedroom homes over hotel rooms. Nights booked for groups of more than five people jumped 16% and was the fastest-growing segment in the region for a fifth quarter, Airbnb said. The continued recovery in international travel has been a bright spot for Airbnb and the industry at large, with Latin America and Asia Pacific being key growth markets for the company. By contrast, Airbnb said the more than doubling of nights booked in Paris during the Olympic games in the second quarter made a relatively small contribution to companys EMEA business, which saw stable gains. The company has been investing more in less mature markets overseas, including the introduction of limited-edition stays inspired by local cultural icons. That will likely weigh on margins in the near term, as Airbnb sees marketing costs rising faster than revenue in the third quarter, partially due to investments in new markets. Chief Executive Officer Brian Chesky has said that the company he co-founded in 2007 is ready to expand beyond its core offering after spending the past year refining its existing product to make listings more reliable and affordable for guests, and to encourage more people to sign up as hosts. That work has been paying off. The number of active listings on Airbnb surpassed 8 million in the second quarter, even as it took steps to remove more than 200,000 lower-quality listings. But investors looking for new product offerings for guests and hosts may have to wait a bit longer. Chief Business Officer Dave Stephenson has signaled that new services on tap for next year could include luxury amenities such as personal chefs, mid-week cleaning and in-home massages. Chesky has also said he will share more details on the companys use of artificial intelligence later in the year. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com Most Indian airlines will resume their operations to and from Dhaka on Wednesday, a day after cancelling flights to Bangladesh amid violent protests and Sheikh Hasina's ouster as the prime minister. Air India will operate its scheduled flight from Delhi to Dhaka on Tuesday evening, while Vistara's scheduled services to the Bangladesh capital will be operational from August 7. Air India informed that it is offering a one-time waiver on rescheduling to customers. In a post on X on Tuesday, Air India wrote, "Air India will operate its evening flights AI237/238 on the Delhi-Dhaka-Delhi sector on 6 August 2024. "In addition, due to the prevailing situation in Dhaka, Air India is offering a one-time waiver on rescheduling to customers, with confirmed bookings on any Air India flight to and from Dhaka between 4th and 7th August 2024, if they desire to do so," Air India said. Air India added, "The tickets would have to be booked on or prior to 5th August. We would like to reiterate that at Air India, the safety of our customers and crew remains top priority. For more information, please connect with our Contact Centre at 011 69329333 , 011 69329999 or visit our website http://airindia.com." Also Read | Bangladesh protests: Air India cancels flight services to and from Dhaka On Tuesday, Air India had cancelled its morning flight to Dhaka. As per normal schedule, the Tata Group-owned airline operates two daily flights from the national capital to Dhaka. Meanwhile Vistara will be operating services as per schedule from Wednesday, an official told news agency PTI. Vistara operates daily flights from Mumbai and three weekly services from Delhi to Dhaka. Both Vistara and IndiGo had cancelled their Tuesday flights to the Bangladesh capital. An update from IndiGo on Dhaka flights for Wednesday is awaited. Normally, IndiGo operates one daily flight from Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai to Dhaka, and two daily services to the Bangladesh capital from Kolkata. Meanwhile, Dhakas Hazrat Shahjalal International airport was closed for operations till 11.30pm on Monday. However, airport security was cleared on Tuesday morning, thus flight operations could resume on Wednesday, the Hindustan Times reported. (Bloomberg) -- Chevron Corp., based in California since the days of kerosene lamps, is moving headquarters to Texas after years of fighting Golden State officials over strict environmental policies and costly regulations. The move announced Friday will end the companys 145 years of being based in the most populous US state. The shift prompted Texas Governor Greg Abbott to welcome Chevron to its true home, while a spokesperson for his California counterpart Gavin Newsom dismissed it as a logical culmination of a years-long transition by the oil giant. Chevron already had slashed new investments in California refining, citing adversarial government policies in a state that has some of the most stringent environmental rules in the US. In January, refining executive Andy Walz warned that the state was playing a dangerous game with climate rules that threatened to spike gasoline prices. Chief Executive Officer Mike Wirth pushed back on suggestions that the relocation is being driven by politics, saying its really to be closer to the core epicenter of our industry. Weve had some policy differences with California, Wirth said during a Bloomberg Television interview. But this isnt a move about politics. Its a move about whats good for our company to compete and perform. The announcement came as Chevron posted disappointing second-quarter results and outlined a shake-up in the senior leadership ranks apparently aimed at improving results. Texas is home to a vast network of resources key to Chevrons business, from equipment vendors to universities that it taps for research and recruiting talent, Wirth noted. Houston is the energy capital of the world, he said. Its a natural place for companies in our industry to have their home office and headquarters. Chevron joins a long list of California emigres that includes Oracle Corp., Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co. and Tesla Inc. While the migration among former Silicon Valley tech giants has been largely driven by tax and and cost-of-living considerations, Chevron has been at loggerheads with state leaders over increasingly tough fossil-fuel rules. Newsom ran for reelection in 2022 promising to wage war on Big Oil, calling for a special legislative session and asking lawmakers to impose a price gouging tax on oil companies. That was later watered down to a task force studying excess profit margins. This announcement is the logical culmination of a long process that has repeatedly been foreshadowed by Chevron, Alex Stack, a spokesperson for the governor, wrote in a statement. Were proud of Californias place as the leading creator of clean energy jobs a critical part of our diverse, innovative, and vibrant economy. Wirth has been extolling the virtues of the Lone Star States business climate for at least half a decade. The policies in California have become pretty restrictive on a lot of business fronts, not just the environment, he said during a 2019 speech in Houston. EVs, Renewables California has long been an incongruent state for an oil company to call home. It pioneered the push to cut tailpipe emissions in the 1960s and has adopted sweeping climate measures including a goal for California to become net zero by 2045, five years ahead of US as a whole. Frequent droughts and wildfires mean the state is already suffering from catastrophic effects of climate change. California accounts for more than a third of the countrys EV sales. And almost all of Americas renewable diesel, made from vegetable oil and natural fats, is consumed in California. California once played an important role in the US oil sector but output has been plunging for most of the past four decades while shale-rich states like Texas and New Mexico have seen crude production boom. Light taxation, business-friendly regulation and a relatively low cost of living made Texas the most desirable destination for companies relocating over the last decade, the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas said in February. The state saw net migration of 7,232 firms and an addition of nearly 103,000 jobs between 2010 and 2019. Chevron already has about 7,000 workers in the Houston region, compared to about 2,000 in San Ramon, California. We do have a big business footprint in Texas, which is now larger than our business footprint in California, Wirth said. For many many years, that was not the case. California was our home, it was our birthplace. --With assistance from Ruth Liao, Alix Steel and Mitchell Ferman. (Corrects description of California in the second paragraph.) More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com Hours after Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister of Bangladesh and arrived near Delhi on a military aircraft, actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut commented on the situation, targeting opposition parties questioning the concept of a Hindu Rashtra." The BJP MP from Himachal Pradesh's Mandi posted on X (formerly Twitter), Bharat is the original motherland of all Islamic Republics around us. We are honoured and flattered that honourable Prime Minister of Bangladesh feels safe in Bharat but all those who live in India and keep asking why Hindu Rashtra? Why Ram Rajya? Well it is evident why!!! No one is safe in Muslim countries not even Muslims themselves. Unfortunate whatever is happening in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Britain. We are lucky to be living in Ram Rajya, she added. Also Read | Sheikh Hasina Resignation LIVE: EAM to make suo moto statement in Lok Sabha On Monday, Hasina fled the country in a military aircraft amid massive protests, with the army stepping in to fill the power vacuum. Diplomatic sources said she landed at the Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad near New Delhi as part of her plan to leave for London. It is learnt that Hasina has been moved to a safe location, and it is unlikely that she will leave India on Monday night. The sources said Hasina planned to leave for London. However, certain issues have come up, which has caused some uncertainty in her original plan. Hasina, 76, is the daughter of Bangladesh founder Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The dramatic developments in Bangladesh mark the end of Hasinas 15-year power run. Over 100 people have been killed in the violence across Bangladesh as chaos reigned supreme hours after Hasina resigned as prime minister and fled the country on Monday, amid signs of a return to normalcy. Bangalore: Namma Metro is scheduled to start a trial run on the Green Line extension from Nagasandra to Madavara today,August 6, a senior Bangalore Metro Corporation official said. The line would be fully operational for passengers from September-end or the first week of October. According to a report by The New Indian Express, the new line which cost 298 crore, spans 3.7 kilometres. The route will have stations at Manjunath Nagar, Chikkabidarakallu (earlier Jindal Nagar) and Madavara (BIEC). Cleaning work, along with several tests are currently underway, with Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety planning to inspect the network around September, TNIE reported. We have taken up deep cleaning work. Various tests are being done. The trial run will be held for a month. We are planning to invite the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety for an inspection by the second week of September," said the managing director of the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited(BMRCL). Longer wait time between two trains As the ongoing project is an extension line, and trains running on the Green Line will be used, the headway between trains will be longer, said the MD, accoridng to TNIE. This means that passengers will have to wait longer for their next train. Residents of Nelamangala, Makali and Madanayakanahalli and those entering the city from Tumakuru can avail the metro services at Madavara. The new route will also be useful for those visiting the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre near Nagasandra . August 2019 deadline The TNIE report further mentioned that the extension project's deadline was August 2019. It was, however, delayed, owing to several occasions,including the delay in completion of work on the station at Madavara. Kangana Ranaut, the Bharatiya Janata Party MP from Mandi, on Tuesday, visited the Samej village, in Rampur, which is one of the worst-affected areas by the cloudbursts in Himachal Pradesh. In the video shared by the PTI, Kangana is seen questioning and giving further instructions to officials accompanying her. Ranaut further took to the social media platform X, to state that it is very shamful to see that the flood affected people are not getting any help from the state government. Himachal Pradesh is currently grappling with estimated losses that exceed 700 crore, reported the ANI. Following a trail of devastation that claimed several lives, the cloudbursts in Himachal Pradesh have swept away infrastructure across the state. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the state government has been monitoring the operations. According to ANI reports, Sukhu further disclosed that the losses incurred since June 27 have encompassed significant damage to infrastructure and other assets. We are closely monitoring the relief and search operations in the affected regions, said the chief minister. Vikramaditya Singh visits flood hit areas Himachal Pradesh's deputy chief minister, and PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh also visited the flood-hit areas. Efforts to reopen 193 closed roads, and re-building of critical bridges is currently underway, in these areas. Vikramaditya Singh said that the government's priority is to expedite rescue and relief measures with the support of NDRF, SDRF, and state police, reported ANI. He has also urged the Central government for swift assistance. Not a time for political agendas The Director General of Himachal Pradesh Police, Atul Verma, also confirmed the ongoing search operations, and said the search will continue till the last missing person is found. "This is not the time for political agendas; it's a time for collective action to aid our state," he added, calling upon elected MPs to receive substantial help from the Centre. Also Read | Himachal cloudburst toll rises to 5; more rains may lash hill state tomorrow The disaster has sparked appeals for assistance from various quarters, including public figures like Kangana Ranaut, whose involvement has been under discussion. India Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in the midst of a monthslong reelection campaign this April when he took to social media to trumpet a remarkable feat! and a historic milestone for his country: crossing 1 billion metric tons of coal and lignite production. It was proof, Modi said, of India's commitment to ensuring a vibrant coal sector. A month later, for the third year in a row, his government ordered some coal plants to run at full capacity to meet high electricity demand during the increasingly hot summer months. Even though India has been significantly increasing its renewable energy capacity in recent years, when demand for electricity surges, it still goes back to its most trusted source of power: coal. For the first six months of this year, India has responded to major energy demand from its growing population and greater cooling needs because of extreme heat, in part due to climate change, by relying on its coal-fired plants. The country also plans to add more coal plants. India's coal demand rose nearly 10% in 2023, or about 105 million metric tons, in the biggest jump by percentage for any country, according to the International Energy Agency. Demand in China rose 6%. We know the Indian government is serious about its climate commitments, said Carlos Fernandez Alvarez, the lead author of the IEA report. But he acknowledged the huge need to ensure people have electricity in India, and added: We dont believe that India will be a front runner in the coal transition." More than 70% of Indias electricity needs are still met by coal even though renewable energy such as wind and solar power is growing. India last year became the worlds most populous nation with 1.4 billion people. Electricity demand is projected to grow by at least 6% annually for the next few years, according to the IEA. Also Read | LIC says its office in Bangladesh will remain closed till August 7 Why coal still rules in India India has millions of people mired in poverty, but millions more who are being lifted from poverty as the country's economy develops. And many of those will be able to afford some relief. Even if someone gets a fan or an air cooler to make their life a little more comfortable, cumulatively you will see the need for a lot more electricity," said Charith Konda, an energy analyst with the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis. He said 7% growth in annual demand is the bare minimum he expects. While renewables are growing, India needs to add a lot of battery storage so that power can replace coal for nighttime needs, Konda said. Electricity demand isn't the only force guaranteeing coal's durability in India. Konda pointed to millions of jobs in coal, including allied sectors such as the railways that control the trains used for transporting coal. One indicator of coal's heft: At the height of summer in 2022, the government canceled nearly 2,000 passenger trains so coal freight trains could reach power plants faster. Also Read | Google has an illegal monopoly on search, US judge finds What is needed for clean power to become the mainstay in India India grew its renewable energy capacity by 25 times over the past decade, and now has 195 gigawatts of wind and solar power installed. But it needs to grow faster still. Peak electricity demand reached an all-time high of 250 gigawatts in May, according to a report by the India Energy and Climate Center at the University of California, Berkeley. That demand could go past 300 gigawatts in the next three years, according to the report, which said that would mean power shortages at night. The country has set an ambitious clean energy goal of 500 gigawatts by the end of this decade. In 2015-16, we saw a few years of really good growth of renewable power. Since then, its kind of plateaued, said Ashish Fernandes of the think tank Climate Risk Horizons. Fernandes and other experts say India needs to install at least 50 to 60 gigawatts of clean power each year to meet growing demand. In the last two years, due to a mix of policy decisions, politics and supply chain issue s, less than 15 gigawatts of wind and solar have been installed annually. And storage has to be integrated into the system, said Konda, the energy analyst. India has a little less than 4 gigawatts of storage. The government last year announced a $452 million plan to support companies installing more. Battery storage is becoming so cheap and is a growth sector globally, said Fernandes, who said India needs to invest while prices are low. The Indian government has also said developed nations should provide more support, including money and technological support, to India and other Global South nations working toward a clean energy transition. In Dipka, a coal town in central India that has seen nearly a century of mining, life without coal is hard to fathom. In this region, everything is connected to coal, said Ramadhar Yadav, 45, whose family was among villagers in the region who sold their fertile land decades ago to coal mining companies and is now among several hundred residents pressing for jobs in the industry in a legal dispute. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said in Parliament that India has been "in regular touch with authorities in Dhaka" and the Indian community in Bangladesh amid the violence and political developments in the neighbouring country. "As violence continued throughout July [in Bangladesh], we repeatedly counselled restrain and urged the situation be diffused through dialogue. Similar urgings were made to various political forces with whom we were in touch," Jaishankar said. "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions," he informed Parliament. "It is our expectation that the host government will provide the required security protection for these establishments [High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Sylhet and Khulna]... in the last 24 hours, we have also been in regular touch with authorities in Dhaka...," the external affairs minister added. Jaishankar's statement came after Sheikh Hasina stepped down as the Bangladesh prime minister amid violence in her country and protesters demanding her resignation. Bangladesh has been witnessing nationwide protests since June over a special job quota bill that allowed reservations for families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. The protests turned violent last month. The Supreme Court, in a ruling on July 21, scaled back the reservation for veteran's relatives in government jobs from 30 per cent to 5 per cent. The verdict, however, was not enough to quell unrest as the protesters demanded Hasina's resignation. Giving in to the pressure, Hasina resigned as the Bangladesh Prime Minister on Monday and fled to India. She is likely to seek asylum in the United Kingdom. On Monday, Jaishankar said in Parliament, Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of security establishments, PM Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi." Hasina, 76, ruled the South Asian country with an iron fist for 15 years. The massive protests that led to her resignation initially began as an agitation against the job quota scheme but weeks later morphed into a mass movement demanding her ouster from power. Weather Update: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued an 'orange' alert of very heavy rain in parts of 10 districts of Himachal Pradesh and cautioned of moderate flash flood risk in isolated parts of the state in the next 24 hours. Issuing an orange alert for the 10 districts of the state, the weather department said Bilaspur, Chamba, Hamirpur, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, Solan and Una may face very heavy rainfall for the next 24 hours till Wednesday evening. The weather office cautioned of moderate flash flood risk in isolated parts of the state's seven out of 12 districts Kangra, Sirmaur, Chamba, Shimla, Kullu, Kinnaur and Mandi in the next 24 hours. Residents and travellers in the state have been advised to stay alert and follow safety guidelines. The weather conditions are expected to impact daily activities significantly and may lead to potential flooding. Also Read | Weather update: IMD issues orange alert for heavy rainfall in 10 states today Speaking to newswire ANI, an IMD scientist, Naresh Kumar said, There can be very heavy rainfall in West Rajasthan today. Isolated heavy rain is expected in Punjab and Haryana in the next two days. Very heavy rainfall is also expected in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Heavy rainfall is predicted in northeastern states in the next five days. Delhi -NCR will receive light to moderate rain in the coming 3 days. The weather agency noted that the monsoon trough is shifting northward, increasing the moisture flow in the eastern and southwestern regions. This shift will likely result in heavy rainfall, particularly in the Kangra, Hamirpur, and Chamba districts. Also Read | Weather today: IMD predicts showers in Delhi and Noida "The department has consequently issued an orange alert for these areas on August 7 and 8 due to the anticipated severe weather," Dr Kuldeep Srivastava, Head of IMD, told ANI. "We have already issued an advisory for rain and floods in the region," Srivastava said. "Cloud cover is prevalent across the state, leading to widespread fog. Light rainfall is currently being observed in Shimla city and surrounding areas," he added. The Met Department also predicted heavy rainfall in West Rajasthan today and light to moderate rain in Delhi-NCR in the coming 3 days. Also Read | Mumbai rains: IMD issues orange alert for very heavy rains in the city Meanwhile, IMD chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said the agency's heavy rainfall forecasts had improved by 30 to 40 per cent over the past five years and should be used to minimise the loss of lives and property during extreme precipitation events. US presidential elections 2024: Kamala Harris, US Vice President and Democratic party nominee in the US Presidential elections scheduled for November 5, on Monday narrowed down her choice for the vice-presidential pick to two probable contenders. The two contenders to be the running mate of Kamala Harris are Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Reuters reported citing insider sources. Also Read | Kamala Harris officially declares her candidature for US presidential elections The Democratic presidential candidate has secured enough delegates to become the party's nominee, but to solidify her nomination, delegates will participate in a virtual roll call. Kamala Harris' is scheduled to make her first public appearance with her running mate at Temple University in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening. Hence an announcement is expected soon. The US Vice President said she was yet to make a decision on her running mate, in a message to supporters late on Monday, reported Reuters. Kamala Harris stated, "I know many of you are eager to find out who I will be selecting to join me on the campaign trail, and hopefully in the White House, as my Vice President," Reuters reported. She added, it is important to me that grassroots supporters - like you - have direct updates about the state of the race. The American politician and attorney is in the race against Republican Presidential nominee Donald Trump and his vice presidential pick, US Senator JD Vance. All you need to know about Tim Walz The 60-year-old Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has emerged as a potential VP choice for the Democratic Party. The Minnesota Governor has worked as a high school teacher apart from serving as a National Guard member. Also Read | Barack and Michelle Obama Endorse Kamala Harris For US Presidential Bid Tim Walz has been actively supporting Kamala Harris campaign and appeared on a number of leading shows. He stood out among other potential running mate finalists when he attended a St. Paul event donning a grey T-shirt and camouflage hat that went viral. Considering Tim Walz's previous low-key profile, political analyst David Schultz noted that Minnesota Governor's emergence as a candidate is unexpected. All you need to know about Josh Shapiro Another key figure in Kamala Harris' list of potential running mates is Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Considering his impressive performance and high approval ratings, there is no doubt about the worthiness of 51-year-old Josh Shapiro as a potential vice presidential pick. He has held a number of significant positions apart from the Governor's post, including state representative, Montgomery County Board Chair and Attorney General. Kangana Ranaut, Bollywood actress-turned-politician and Lok Sabha MP for Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, has faced significant backlash from netizens over her comments about Anant Ambani, son of Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani. Ranaut's remarks, which were made in response to a video of Anant Ambani discussing his close bond with his siblings, have drawn widespread criticism online. In a social media post on X (formerly Twitter) earlier this year, Ranaut praised Ambani for being "cultured, rooted, and sensible" and suggested that he avoids the "Bollywood mafia druggie gang." Her comments, however, were met with intense backlash from users on social media He seems really cultured, rooted and sensible, also doesnt hang out with the Bollywood mafia druggie gang wish him the best (SIC). However, netizens were quick to react, criticizing Ranaut for her remark. Many users pointed out the hypocrisy in her statement, given her own history of drug addiction. Others accused her of dragging Bollywood into the conversation unnecessarily and being bitter about not being invited to Anant's wedding One user commented, "Har jagah Bollywood?? Let your emergency come. Agar dhaaga nahi khola toh .." Also Read | Kangana Ranaut to sell Mumbai bungalow? Another user criticized her for bringing Bollywood into the conversation, stating, "They are talking about Anant Ambani, and you dragged Bollywood here again. If someone is not casting you in their films or not giving you much attention, then it doesn't mean that person is the movie Mafia. It's his or her choice. Grow up. Get a life." Another sarcastically commented, For your kind information Ranbir Kapoor is his best friend. Also Read | Kangana Ranaut reacts to Angela Carini vs Imane Khelif Olympics controversy Others questioned the basis of her claim, with one user asking, How do you know that he doesnt hang out with the Bollywood druggie gang? He never met you there I guess. Another user warned, Madam if you keep spewing venom no one will go to theatres to watch your next movie." Also Read | Kangana Ranaut lambasts at Olympics 2024 Opening ceremony performances The backlash also included remarks about Ranaut's absence from Anant Ambani's recent wedding to Radhika Merchant. The extravagant wedding, held in Mumbai on July 12, was attended by numerous Bollywood celebrities and global stars, including Shah Rukh Khan. Notably, Kangana Ranaut, Saif Ali Khan, and several other prominent figures were missing from the event. A user noted, Aunty didn't get an invitation to those Ambani weddings. Can you believe it?" Another user said, All said and done, you were not invited. Shows how important you are. (Bloomberg) -- New York state voters support banning smartphones in classrooms by a wide margin amid growing nationwide concern that the devices distract from learning and jeopardize mental health. Voters back a school smartphone ban by 60% to 32%, according to a poll from Siena College released Tuesday. An equal amount of strong support came from Republicans and Democrats, a finding that Siena called a true oddity in todays politically polarized environment. Independents also back a ban, with 64% in favor, the poll found. Not surprisingly, smartphone bans are more popular among older voters, with those over 35 backing such measures by more than 60%. But even voters under 35 support support bans, by 44% to 40%, according to the poll. The surveys results reflect sentiments about measures that could soon become a reality for more school districts across the state. New York City Schools Chancellor David Banks said he plans an across-the-board ban on mobile phones for more than 1.1 million public-school students at 1,800 campuses. Governor Kathy Hochul said she intends to propose a statewide ban in schools during the 2025 legislative session. Some New York schools that already have bans in place have seen positive results, including increased grades and support from students and teachers. About 70% of US high school teachers and one-third of middle school teachers say that students being distracted by cellphones is a major problem in their classrooms, according to the Pew Research Center. The Siena poll was conducted among 1,199 likely voters in New York via telephone, with an overall margin of error of plus or minus 4 percentage points. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com (Bloomberg) -- Bangladesh is pinning its hopes on one of the nations most acclaimed intellectuals to bring stability to a country scarred by coups and political upheaval. Muhammad Yunus, whose work alleviating poverty won him a Nobel Peace Prize, was named the head of a new interim government on Tuesday following the sudden ouster of Sheikh Hasina as prime minister this week. Though hes mostly stayed away from politics, Yunus is one of Bangladeshs most famous faces and brings considerable clout with Western elites. Restoring normalcy to Bangladesh wont be a small feat for Yunus. Over the past few weeks, clashes between protesters and security personnel cost the lives of more than 300 people, one of the worst outbreaks of violence in the South Asian nations history. And while Hasina lifted millions out of poverty through garment exports, economic growth has lately stalled in Bangladesh, prompting the International Monetary Fund to step in with bailout funds. The military-backed appointment of Yunus to temporarily lead Bangladesh is a remarkable turn of events for the economist. Over the past couple of years, Yunus has spent much of his time inside Dhakas courtrooms, fighting about 200 charges against him and his associates, including allegations of money laundering and graft. He and his supporters say Hasinas government was behind the legal pressure and perhaps saw him as a threat to her power. She denied those accusations. Yunus, 84, is best known for founding Grameen Bank and pioneering microcredit providing tiny business loans to the worlds poorest people, most of them women. Though hes spent much of his life in the public eye, politics is largely unexplored terrain. In 2007, the Bangladeshi government splintered, and the military seized power. Yunus, whod never run for office, considered forming a new party to fill the vacuum, but ultimately scrapped the idea within a few weeks. I feel very uncomfortable with politics, he said in an interview earlier this year. Yunus brings star power to the role and is a popular choice with many Western governments. His supporters span industries and continents. Over the years, hes cultivated friendships with European royals, business titans like Richard Branson and the Clintons, who helped Yunus expand his microcredit initiatives to the US. His friends say hes a rare visionary with a genuine commitment to Bangladesh and uplifting the poor. He is the voice of the people left behind, said Paul Polman, a former chief executive of Unilever Plc and a close friend. Hes a moral leader. Hes not somebody who likes to talk about himself. He likes to talk about the people he serves. That reputation has endeared him to many in Bangladesh, including the military, which had previously supported his first foray into politics. After winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006, thousands of Bangladeshis crowded venues just to hear him speak. Many still bow and touch their hearts when they see him. Over the past decade, Yunus has focused on expanding dozens of social businesses, including ones that offer free health care, vocational training and phone services to poorer Bangladeshis. Whether Yunus pivots more deliberately into politics or simply fills a hole before elections are held remains unclear. As protesters swarmed Dhakas streets in recent weeks, Yunus spoke out publicly against the violence and characterized Hasinas crackdown as a threat to democracy but he made no mention of ambitions to take a more formal role in shaping a new government. Im not a politician, he said in the interview earlier this year. This is the last thing I will ever do. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com (Bloomberg) -- Rivian Automotive Inc. maintained its full-year vehicle production target and profit-making goal, a sign the electric vehicle maker is filling orders on schedule after retooling its assembly lines. The company said Tuesday it expects to produce 57,000 EVs in 2024, unchanged from prior projections for this year and about the same volume as in 2023. It had previously reaffirmed the production target in July, a move that left investors underwhelmed. Rivian kept its forecast for a full year loss of $2.7 billion and capital spending on the order of $1.2 billion. The Irvine, California-based carmaker also said its on track to earn a modest gross profit by the end of the year, something that Chief Executive Officer R.J. Scaringe has repeatedly promised investors. The steady outlook follows a retooling of the carmakers factory in Illinois to boost efficiency, a decision to pause construction of a new plant in Georgia and a major partnership deal with Volkswagen AG. Shares of Rivian rose 1.4% in postmarket trading to $15.01 as of 4:06 p.m. in New York. The stock closed regular trading Tuesday down 37% this year. For the second quarter, Rivian posted an adjusted loss of $1.13 per share, better than analysts expectations for a loss of $1.20 a share. Sales came to $1.16 billion, also below the consensus analyst estimate for $1.17 billion. Revenue earned from the sale of regulatory credits totaled $17 million, compared with a de minimis haul in the first quarter. The EV maker has said second-quarter output came to 9,612 vehicles with deliveries totaling 13,790 in the period. (Corrects with non-GAAP adjusted earnings per share in sixth paragraph.) More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com NASA images: The exquisite photos captured by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) give a glimpse into the profound visuals of the universe. The real-time images captured by NASA's James Webb Telescope, NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, and NASA's Chandra Space-based Observatory provide valuable insight into cosmic phenomena. The grandeur and complexity of the extra-terrestrial world are perfectly depicted by the series of images shared by the American space agency. There is much to uncover, from celestial bodies, planets, nebula, moon, star clusters, and interacting galaxies to black holes in the vast expanse of space. While some images solve mysteries and help us explore secrets waiting to be unfurled, others create complexities in our given knowledge structure. Here are five images from space shared by the space agency, which provide a glimpse of the extraterrestrial world in unprecedented detail. Also Read | NASA shares image of proton star buried at the centre of Crab Nebula | See photo Binary Asteroid with Moon The Deep Space Network's Goldstone Solar System Radar released a picture showing seven radar observations of the asteroid 2011 UL21 during its close approach with Earth. When captured, the asteroid marked by white circles with its small moon was 4.1 million miles (6.6 million kilometres) away from Earth. NASA states, Passing Earth on June 27, 2024, the asteroid was discovered in 2011 by the NASA-funded Catalina Sky Survey in Tucson, Arizona. This marked the first time it came close enough to Earth to be imaged by radar. Binary Asteroid with Moon Sulphur Crystals on Mars NASA's Curiosity Mars rover captured these sulphur crystals on June 4, 2024, found inside a rock. The image captured by Curiosity's Mars Hand Lens Imager (MAHLI) onboard the rover elaborately details the structure of sulphur crystals. The space agency's description says, "This rock was nicknamed "Convict Lake" after a location in California's Sierra Nevada. Curiosity's Alpha Particle X-ray spectrometer (APXS) found that the crystalline material is elemental sulfur." Also Read | Will Sunita Williams return to Earth by mid-August? Track top updates here Sulphur crystals on Mars Clouds and Cyclonic Storms of Jupiter NASA's Juno spacecraft captured a stunning image of Jupiter's northern hemisphere from 18,000 miles (29,000 kilometres) above the giant planet. This colour-enhanced photo provides a detailed view of chaotic clouds and cyclonic storms. NASA said, Citizen scientist Gary Eason made this image using raw data from the JunoCam instrument, applying digital processing techniques to enhance colour and clarity. Also Read | NASA images: 5 incredible Space images by James Webb telescope Clouds and cyclonic storms of Jupiter The Bahamas Island NASA astronaut Mike Barratt photographed a spectacular image of Acklins Island in The Bahamas. Meanwhile, the International Space Station orbited 256 miles above when the picture was shot. The Bahamas island Mount Kilimanjaro The International Space Station captured the clouded skies above Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. The agency captured this picture from a camera placed 261 miles above the Indian Ocean off the coast of Tanzania. Eric Trump, the third child of former US President Donald Trump, criticised Prince Harry and Meghan Markle while emphasising his father's admiration for the British Royal Family. During a conversation with Ben Leo on GB News, Eric praised the Royal establishment as admirable but acknowledged the possibility of bad apples. Also Read | Meghan Markle opens up on suicidal thoughts while in Royal Family Eric and his father have great respect for the Queen, said the American businessman. He called the Royal Family a sacred institution. He implied that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex seemed isolated and suggested they might not be welcome in the US anymore. You can happily have those two, we might not want them anymore, it feels like theyre on an island of their own, he told the British publication. There are doubts about Harry's future in California, where he lives with wife Meghan and their two kids in a nine-bedroom mansion. Things escalated after his admission in his autobiography, "Spare," that he had used drugs. According to US law, this could lead to a visa application being denied. The Heritage Foundation is challenging the Department of Homeland Security over this issue. Donald Trump on Harry-Meghan During an exclusive interview with GB News in March, Donald Trump hinted that, if he were re-elected, Prince Harry might be deported from the US. Speaking with Nigel Farage, the Republican candidate for US Elections 2024 acknowledged that Harry's future could be uncertain. When Farage asked whether Harry should receive special treatment if it turned out he lied on his Visa application, the former US president responded that there should be no special privileges. If authorities discover any falsehoods related to drug use, they should take appropriate action, senior Trump added. Farage asked what he meant by appropriate action and if it meant deporting the Duke from the US. Rajeev Chandrasekhar shows concerns about campus safety of US varsities and urged US Ambassor Eric Garcetti to India to provide transparent disclosures. The comment comes as Garcetti to urges Indian students to join US varsities. Earlier today, Garcetti posted on X (previously Twitter) Students and parents, Im thrilled to invite you to our #EducationUSA Fairs, which are taking place all over India this month. This is your chance to meet representatives from more than 80 U.S. universities and learn about admissions, scholarships and much more. Register now to make your dream of studying in the U.S. a reality. Replying to it, Chandrasekhar said, as you invite our Young Indians to study in the US. I Am also US Uni graduate and can testify to some excellent Univs in the US. But as recent violence and targetted intimidation on US campuses have shown, US campuses arent the same safe centers of learning anymore and many Indian parents had to rush their children back to India. So fairs are good but pls do hv transparent disclosures of campus safety as well. The commennt comes amid tensions at college campuses across the US. Earlier this year, a brawl erupted at UCLA after a pro-Palestinian encampment was forcefully attacked, the school's chancellor said Wednesday, while activists at the University of Wisconsin in Madison clashed with police officers who destroyed their tents, in a day of escalating violence on some college campuses over the war in Gaza. After the ouster of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government, Indian security agencies were ready for any contingency as she was headed towards India for safety in an Air Force jet. Indian Air Force radars were actively monitoring air space over Bangladesh and detected a low level flying aircraft around 3 PM coming towards India, sources told ANI. The aircraft was allowed to move inside India as the air defence personnel knew who was inside the plane, they said. In a bid to provide security to the plane, two Rafale fighter aircraft from the 101 squadron from Hashimara air base in West Bengal were airborne over Bihar and Jharkhand as the aircraft, the sources said. The aircraft was on its flight path and was closely monitored by the agencies in ground with constant communication between it and top Indian security officials on ground, the sources said. The Indian Air Force and Army chiefs Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and Gen Upendra Dwivedi were monitoring the situation very closely, the sources said. A top level meeting of top security officials was also held with the involvement of intel agency chiefs, Gen Dwivedi and Integrated Defence Staff chief Lt Gen Johnson Philip Mathew. As Hasina's jet landed at Hindan air base around 545 PM, she was greeted by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval who held an hour long meeting with her and the current situation in Bangladesh and her future course of action also came up for discussion. The NSA then left the airbase in the evening to brief a Cabinet Committee of Security meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday informed the embattled former prime minister of Bangladesh Shiekh Hasina is in India and the Centre has offered her all possible support. Speaking on the situation in Bangladesh at the Parliament, Jaishankar said, Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of security establishments, PM Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi." Earlier while briefing an all-party meeting about the current situation in the neighbouring country, Jaishankar noted that the central government was in touch with the Bangladesh Army and it will take appropriate action at the right time. Taking to X, Jaishankar stated, Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended. According to sources close to the development, as reported by ANI, the leaders were informed that there are 20000 Indian nationals in Bangladesh. Meanwhile, so far 8000 Indian nationals have returned. Jaishankar informed the meeting that the Indian government is in touch with Indian nationals and the High Commission there continues to operate. The leaders were informed that the focus is on minorities and that they should be protected, sources from the all-party meeting told ANI. Rahul Gandhi asks about long-term and short-term strategies Rahul Gandhi, meanwhile, inquired about India's long-term and short-term strategies. The government responded that the situation was evolving and that they would continue to analyze it. Rahul Gandhi also asked about the potential involvement of foreign entities. The central government assured that all possible angles were being investigated. After being briefed by the government, Rahul Gandhi expressed his support for the measures taken in the national interest. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation after Sheikh Hasina resigned from her post in the wake of mounting protests. The protests, majorly led by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests. In Dhaka, the leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, in a bid to address Bangladesh's ongoing challenges. The United States reportedly revoked the visa of Bangladesh's ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. News 18 cited sources close to the opposition in Bangladesh as saying on Tuesday that Hasinas visa was revoked by the US. Hasina stepped down as the prime minister on Monday amid nationwide violence and protests over a job quota in government employment. According to news agency AFP, Hasina largely had a productive relationship with the US, which saw her as a partner on priorities such as countering Islamist extremism and sheltering Rohingya refugees fleeing persecution in Myanmar. But the US had increasingly criticised her for autocratic tendencies and imposed visa sanctions over concerns on democracy, the report added. The US called for calm as violent protests continued in Bangladesh on Monday. "We urge all parties to refrain from further violence. Too many lives have been lost over the course of the past several weeks, and we urge calm and restraint in the days ahead," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller was quoted as saying. On the formation of an interim government in Bangladesh, Miller reportedly said, "We welcome the announcement of an interim government and urge any transition be conducted in accordance with Bangladesh's laws." When asked if the military should choose the next leadership, Miller said, "We want to see the Bangladeshi people decide the future Bangladeshi government." He said that the US States also was "deeply saddened about the reports of human rights abuses, casualties and injuries over the weekend and past weeks". "It is vital that we have full and transparent investigations to ensure accountability for these deaths," Miller added. Hasina's way to UK unclear Hasina has reportedly sought asylum in the United Kingdom. However, reports suggested that she might not be granted refuge in the European country. The UK Home Office told NDTV on Tuesday that British immigration rules do not allow individuals to travel to that country to seek asylum or temporary refuge. The UK has a proud record of providing protection for people who need it. However, there is no provision for someone to be allowed to travel to the UK to seek asylum or temporary refuge, the UK government was quoted as saying. Bangladesh's protest and formation of interim govt Hundreds of people were killed as security forces sought to quell the unrest but the protests grew and Hasina finally fled aboard a helicopter on Monday after the military turned against her. Bangladeshs president dissolved Parliament on Tuesday, clearing the way for new elections to replace the longtime prime minister who resigned and fled the country following weeks of demonstrations against her rule that descended into violence. Meanwhile, Bangladeshi Nobel winner Muhammad Yunus said on Tuesday that he was ready to head an interim government in the country. "I am honoured by the trust of the protesters who wish for me to lead the interim government," he said in a written statement to AFP. "If action is needed in Bangladesh, for my country and for the courage of my people, then I will take it," the 84-year-old Nobel-winning microfinance pioneer said, also calling for "free elections." Yunus, known as the "banker to the poorest of the poor", was awarded the Peace Prize in 2006 for his work loaning small cash sums to rural women, allowing them to invest in farm tools or business equipment and boost their earnings. The United States on Tuesday advised its citizens against travelling to Bangladesh due to civil unrest, crime, and terrorism following the resignation and escape of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The US State Department raised its travel advisory to the highest level, 'Level 4: Do Not Travel,' and recommended the departure of non-emergency US government personnel and their families. More than 100 people have died in the widespread violence that erupted across Bangladesh after Hasina stepped down and fled the country on Monday, despite early indications of a return to normalcy. Also Read | Sheikh Hasina Resignation LIVE: EAM to make suo moto statement in Lok Sabha On August 5, 2024, the Department ordered the departure of non-emergency US government employees and family members. Travellers should not travel to Bangladesh due to ongoing civil unrest in Dhaka, the State Department said in its advisory. Violent clashes have occurred in the city of Dhaka, its neighbouring areas, and throughout Bangladesh, and the Bangladesh Army is deployed nationwide. Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport temporarily paused operations on August 5. Travellers should check with their airlines to confirm the status for future flights, the travel advisory added. The advisory warned travellers to be cautious of petty crimes like pickpocketing in crowded areas, noting that crimes such as muggings, burglaries, assaults, and illegal drug trafficking are common in Bangladesh's major cities. However, there is no evidence to suggest that foreigners are being targeted due to their nationality. These crimes are often dependent on the time and location. The advisory also mentions that terrorist attacks can occur without warning, with terrorists potentially targeting public spaces such as tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, restaurants, places of worship, schools, and government buildings. Because of security concerns, US Embassy personnel in Bangladesh are subject to some movement and travel restrictions. The US government may have limited ability to provide emergency services to US citizens in Bangladesh due to these travel restrictions, a lack of infrastructure, and limited host government emergency response resources, it added. Iran faces a dilemma over how to deliver a meaningful blow to Israel without prompting a war that could engulf the Middle East. That challenge appears to be delaying an attack that was widely thought to be imminent days ago. Iran is stuck between a rock and a hard place, said Dina Esfandiary, a senior adviser on the Middle East and North Africa at the International Crisis Group. Its going to want to retaliate in a way thats significant enough to deter Israel from increasing the escalation spiral. But its not going to want to do something to prompt a regional war that will drag the US in. Iran has said it wants to punish Israel for last weeks assassination of a leading Hamas figure in Tehran, but not to the point of starting a region-wide war. Its emphasized the need to reestablish deterrence against its archenemy, which has neither confirmed nor denied being responsible for the death of Ismail Haniyeh. Sending a message of defiance Tuesday, Hamas named Yahya Sinwar, Israels top target and the mastermind behind the groups Oct. 7 assault, as its political leader to succeed Haniyeh. Iran could choose to target military sites in Israel similar to the rocket and drone barrage it carried out in April. That did minimal damage, partly because the move was effectively telegraphed in advance, helping the Israeli air force shoot down the vast majority of the projectiles with help from the US, UK, France and Jordan. Under pressure from the US, Israel responded with a limited strike on an Iranian airbase that meant tensions soon eased. Another option is to use Irans network of armed proxies including militias in Iraq, Lebanon-based Hezbollah and the Houthis in Yemen to hit Israel with missiles and drones. The aim would be to overwhelm Israels air defense capabilities and disrupt military and, potentially, civilian infrastructure, said Burcu Ozcelik, senior research fellow at Londons Royal United Services Institute. The assault could take place over a series of days. It might be hard to do so with real surprise, though. While ballistic missiles would take over 10 minutes to cover the 750 miles from Iran, cruise missiles and drones could take hours. Israel and its allies would probably have time to detect the threats and mount interception strikes. Within Iran, there was shock that Haniyeh, the Hamas political leader, was assassinated in the heart of Tehran in a government guesthouse. The Islamic Republic and its Axis of Resistance have no red lines when it comes to punishing Israel, Kayhan, a conservative newspaper in Iran, said on Tuesday in an editorial, referring to Tehrans network of non-state allies. Fears about a reprisal have prompted the US to send more fighter planes, warships and missiles to the region to back Israel. Theres been a surge of coordinated diplomatic activity involving Western and Arab officials. The Group of Seven and Qatar have reached out to Iran in a bid to temper its next move, Bloomberg reported on Monday. Jordans foreign minister made a rare visit to Tehran with a similar aim. All the diplomacy may result in a more calculated, limited response from Iran, according to Ozcelik. Middle East geopolitics have been upended since Oct. 7 when Hamas, listed as a terrorist organization by the US and and the European Union, swarmed into Israel from Gaza, killing some 1,200 people and taking 250 others hostage. Israels subsequent offensive has killed more than 40,000 people, according to health officials in the Hamas-run enclave. The toll of scattered attacks continues to mount in the region. According to a US defense official, five US service members and two US contractor employees were injured in the rocket attack on an airbase in Iraq on Monday. All seven of those injured are in stable condition, the official said. As Iran contemplates its next step, the risk remains that a miscalculation, most likely from proxies taking their missile and drone attacks too far, will draw a much stronger counter attack from Israel. That could be hugely costly for a clerical leadership already experiencing high levels of dissent at home. They dont want to sleepwalk into a regional war that they cant win, Esfandiary said. With assistance from Patrick Sykes, Ethan Bronner, Peter Martin and Omar Tamo. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said on Tuesday that an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals, including 9000 students, are in Bangladesh, and the government is in continuous touch with the Indian community there through diplomatic missions. The External Affairs Minister said that India will remain deeply concerned until Bangladesh's law and order is restored. Speaking in Rajya Sabha about the situation in Bangladesh, Dr S Jaishankar said: We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9000 are students. The bulk of the students returned in July." MEA Jaishnakar further said that the government is monitoring the situation regarding the status of minorities. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being. Naturally, we will remain deeply concerned until law and order are restored. He said: Our border guarding forces have been instructed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation. In the last 24 hours, we have been in touch with authorities in Dhaka." Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved parliament on Tuesday, clearing the way for new elections to replace the longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who resigned and fled the country following weeks of demonstrations against her rule that descended into violent unrest. President Shahabuddin also ordered the release of opposition leader Khaleda Zia from house arrest. Zia, a longtime rival of ousted Hasina, was convicted on corruption charges by Hasina's government in 2018. The president and Bangladeshs top military commander said late Monday that an interim government will soon be formed to preside over new elections. Malis military leadership severed diplomatic ties with Ukraine over its alleged backing of a Malian Tuareg rebel group that carried out an attack in which scores of government troops and Russian-backed mercenaries died. Mali took the action after a Ukrainian military intelligence agency spokesman said his country had assisted the rebels, without providing any details. Those comments showed Ukraines involvement in a cowardly, treacherous and barbaric attack by armed terrorist groups resulting in the death of Malian soldiers, government spokesman Abdoulaye Maiga said late Sunday. The interview with the intelligence official went viral after it was shared in a post on the Ukrainian Embassys Facebook page, including a comment by its ambassador to Senegal who openly and unequivocally displayed his countrys support for international terrorism, Maiga said. The support violates Malis sovereignty, going beyond the scope of foreign interference, amounting to support for international terrorism. The post has since been deleted and couldnt be independently verified. The embassy declined to comment when reached by phone on Monday. A spokesman for the rebels in Mali didnt respond to a text message seeking comment. Senegals foreign minister on Friday summoned Ukrainian Ambassador Yurii Pyvovarov over a video it said the embassy had posted on its Facebook page in which Pyvovarov provided unequivocal and unqualified support for the terrorist attack carried out in Mali. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said on Monday the decision to cut ties was short-sighted and hasty, calling in a Monday statement for a thorough investigation into the incident in northern Mali. More than two dozen mercenaries from the Russia-backed Wagner Group and Malian soldiers were killed last month while fighting rebels in northern Mali, according to a pro-Kremlin news source. They suffered whats likely the groups biggest death toll since 2021 the year Wagner deployed to the West African to reinforce ties with the military-run government thats been fighting a decade-long Islamist insurgency in which thousands of people had died and hundreds of thousands of others have been displaced. With assistance from Volodymyr Verbianyi. Tech giant Meta apologised Tuesday for removing social media posts by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim about the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. The apology came a day after Anwar's office summoned Meta representatives to seek an explanation on why the leader's Facebook and Instagram posts about Haniyeh's death had been removed. Also Read | Iran rebuffs calls for restraint in its response to killing of Hamas leader Meta is the parent firm of the two popular social media platforms. "We apologise for an operational error where content from the Prime Minister's Facebook and Instagram Pages were removed," Meta said in a statement emailed to AFP. "The content has since been restored with the correct newsworthy label." The political leader of Palestinian armed group Hamas was killed in the Iranian capital Tehran on Wednesday in an attack blamed on Israel, which has not directly commented on it. Anwar's posts included a video showing the premier on a phone call with a Hamas official, offering his condolences. On Instagram, there was a note by Meta, shared by Anwar, that the posts were taken down because of association with "dangerous individuals and organisations". Anwar's office had described Meta's removal of the posts as "a blatant suppression of free expression" and demanded an apology from the tech behemoth. Anwar last week accused the tech giant of "cowardice" for removing his posts. Israel, the United States and the European Union consider Hamas a terrorist organisation. Anwar, who met Haniyeh in Qatar in May, has defended Malaysia's ties with the Iran-backed Palestinian militant group, which launched a deadly attack against Israel on October 7 that triggered the war in Gaza. Nobel winner Muhammad Yunus said on Tuesday he was ready to head an interim government in Bangladesh after mass demonstrations forced longtime ruler Sheikh Hasina to flee the country. "I am honoured by the trust of the protesters who wish for me to lead the interim government," he said in a written statement to AFP. "If action is needed in Bangladesh, for my country and for the courage of my people, then I will take it," he said, also calling for "free elections." "The interim government is only the beginning," he said. "Lasting peace will only come with free elections. Without elections, there will be no change." Yunus, known as the "banker to the poorest of the poor", was awarded the Peace Prize in 2006 for his work loaning small cash sums to rural women, allowing them to invest in farm tools or business equipment and boost their earnings. Earlier Tuesday, student leaders in Bangladesh demanded that Yunus lead a caretaker government, a day after the military took control as demonstrations forced Hasina to flee the country. Hasina, 76, had been in power since 2009 but was accused of rigging elections in January and then watched millions of people take to the streets over the past month demanding she quit. Hundreds of people were killed as security forces sought to quell the unrest but the protests grew and Hasina finally fled aboard a helicopter on Monday after the military turned against her. "Youth have voiced their need for change in our country," Yunus said. "The prime minister heard them by leaving the country. This was a very important first step taken yesterday. "The courage of this youth is boundless," he added. "They have made Bangladesh proud and shown the world our nation's determination against injustice." Middle class is a term used rather loosely by individuals wanting to project that they are not as well-off as others think they are. And it has been used extensively on social media since the Narendra Modi government decided to remove indexation benefits available on long-term capital gains made on the sale of property. We have been told by rich mutual fund agents, chartered accountants and registered investment advisors in the business of managing other peoples money that this is an anti-middle class move. Many of those complaining about the move have been supporters of the Modi government, making their discontent on social media funnier, given how they now feel that their support has counted for nothing. Now, before getting into further details, let me make a couple of points. First, the government shouldnt be incentivizing one kind of income over another, and all income should be taxed the same way. Removing indexation benefits is a move towards that. Second, more than 10 million flats in India have been bought and kept locked for investment purposes. Its these flat-owners who will be hurt by the governments decision. And anyone who can afford to buy a flat and keep it locked isnt really middle-class, despite the lack of a proper definition of the term. So, that leaves us with another question: What about the well-to-do who have supported the Modi government and, as they have been saying on social media lately, gotten nothing material in return? Well, let me tell you a small story. In late July, I was part of two tourist tours, one in Oxford and another in Edinburgh. As we went around, the guides showed us several old buildings with many sealed windows. This was because in the 17th and 18th century, the government came up with a unique windows tax based on the number of windows in a house. The logic being that the bigger the house, the more windows it would have, and having more windows became a symbol of prosperity, and hence the tax. This led a lot of people to simply seal off their windows in order to pay less or no tax. Whats the point of this story? There are three things that make a government a government: the right to legal violence, the right to create money out of thin air and the right to tax. And when a government wants money, it will tax anything and everything. So, the removal of indexation benefits should hardly come as a surprise. In 2018-19, before the pandemic broke out, the total expenditure of the central government and state governments stood at 26.7% of gross domestic product (GDP). This jumped to 32% in 2020-21 and was at 30.6% in 2023-24. With the private part of the economy not doing well, governments have had to spend more. In fact, as the Economic Survey of 2022-23 had pointed out, more than 300 direct benefit transfer schemes are run by the central government and more than 2,000 by state governments. While politicians may not admit it publicly, they know that a large section of the population is struggling in the aftermath of the pandemic. Through such schemes, they have been trying to do the right thing, along with trying to address this important vote bank. Also, thanks to technology, the delivery of such schemes has improved considerably. As Raghuram G. Rajan and Rohit Lamba write in Breaking the Mould: Reimagining Indias Economic Future: Ironically, as technological advances have improved delivery of targeted benefits the top leadership in the state or national capital can now identify themselves with the delivery of a specific benefit such as cash transfers, toilets, food grains, gas cylinders or education loans, and directly build a personal rapport with the voter." And all this costs money. A lot of it. The total expenditure of the central and state governments has gone up over the years. Also, there is pressure to bring down overall government debt. And given that the central government shares a good proportion of the taxes it collects with state governments, there is great pressure on it to collect more tax money in general. What hasnt helped is the fact that in September 2019, the central government cut the corporate income tax rate in the hope that it will incentivize companies to invest more. In 2018-19, the corporation tax collected stood at 3.5% of GDP. In 2023-24, it stood at 3.1% of GDP, despite corporations earning higher profits. Its expected to be at 3.1% even in 2024-25. Now, such a narrative-focused government cannot reverse this move, given the uncomfortable questions that would arise. Hence, among other things, the government will have to try and collect higher taxes on income. In 2018-19, these collections stood at 2.4% of GDP, jumping to 3.5% in 2023-24, and are seen rising further to 3.6% in 2024-25. Taxing capital gains at higher rates will help improve tax collections. So, that leaves us with the well-to-do trying to pass themselves off as middle class and getting angry about the removal of indexation benefits. The joke has always been on them because someones got to foot the governments bills. Its just that they might finally be getting around to realizing it. Recently, the International Monetary Fund raised its economic growth forecast for China and India. Both Asian countries are at a critical stage of development. China wants to develop well for itself, and hopes India will develop well too. In a world where countries are interdependent, China, India and the world share a common future. The recent Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) provided a window to foresee Chinese modernization. I would like to share some key words with our Indian friends. Reform: Reform and opening-up hold the key to the destiny of China. The Plenary meeting laid out a pathway to deepen reforms comprehensively to advance Chinese modernization. It put forth more than 300 important reforms covering various fields such as the Chinese economy, politics, culture, society and ecological conservation. We will build a high-standard socialist market economy, foster a fairer and more dynamic market environment, and unleash internal driving forces, including the creativity of society. Chinas reform project also aims to inject positive energy into the global economy that is facing uncertainties. Development: The Indian media worries about Chinas so-called economic slowdown." In fact, the Chinese economy has maintained a positive recovery, with GDP growth of 5% in the first half of 2024. President Xi Jinping put forward the notion of new quality productive forces." China has developed many competitive industries, such as high-end equipment, new-energy vehicles and photovoltaics. We have nurtured over 140,000 specialized and sophisticated small and medium-sized enterprises that produce novel and unique products. We will promote high-end, intelligent and green development in manufacturing, which will foster new growth drivers and strengths. Opening up: China is committed to opening up, and has adhered to it since the late 1970s. Momentous changes unseen in a century are accelerating and external uncertainties are mounting. However, Chinas door will never be closed. It will only open wider. We will actively align with high-standard international economic and trade rules, steadily expand institutional opening-up, further relax market access, foster a world-class business environment that is market-oriented, law-based and internationalized, and develop new mechanisms for a higher-standard open economy. We implemented unilateral visa-free policies for several countries and will provide further conveniences to foreign travellers in terms of accommodation, medical services and payments. China remains an attractive destination for foreign investment. In the first half of 2024, China attracted nearly 500 billion yuan in foreign investment. We are willing to share large opportunities with Indian and other foreign enterprises. Peace: China pursues an independent foreign policy and aims to promote a shared future for mankind. We will pursue the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative. We will resolutely safeguard Chinas sovereignty, security and development interests. Last month, President Xi Jinping addressed the Conference Marking the 70th Anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, reiterating Chinas resolve to stay on a path of peaceful development. In this spirit, China is ready to work with India for a better future for all humanity. Education: Along with science and technology, education and talent development are part of a strategic plan to underpin Chinese modernization. China has built the worlds largest education system. On average, our new entrants to the labour market received more than 14 years of education. And the Chinese population with higher education has reached 250 million. China has strengthened basic research and original innovation, achieved major breakthroughs in core technologies, and has joined the ranks of innovative countries. Last month, I was invited to the inauguration of the new campus of Nalanda University. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that India encourages learning, research and innovation. China and India could tap the potential for mutual cooperation in education. We would welcome more Indian students to study in China. Ecology: Chinese modernization values harmony between humanity and nature. China accounts for a quarter of the worlds newly added green area since 2000. The country has the worlds biggest clean-power generation system. Our installed capacity for hydropower, wind power and solar photovoltaic power each tops the world. This has made major contributions to the worlds green transition and hence climate action. We will make concerted efforts to cut carbon emissions, reduce pollution, pursue green development and boost economic growth, and will work together with other countries for a clean and beautiful world. Chinese modernization is a pioneering cause. Under the leadership of the CPC, we are confident of realizing our reform targets and creating more economic opportunities for the rest of the world. We are willing to work with India to implement an important consensus between our two countries leaders that China and India are not each others threat, but cooperation partners and development opportunities," bring China-India relations back on their track of steady and sound enhancement, and realize our shared dream of development and revitalization. Xu Feihong is ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the Peoples Republic of China in India. In markets and economics, you sometimes have to hold two thoughts in your head simultaneouslyan important lesson now that the US unemployment rate has surged to its highest in nearly three years. First, the labour market probably isnt quite as imperilled as the main figure suggests. Second, the speed at which its cooling ratchets up risks, and the Federal Reserve should entertain the possibility that itll need to cut rates by 0.5 percentage point in September. A report showed that the joblessness rate rose to 4.3% in July from 4.1% the previous month, exceeding economists estimates. Thats still relatively low, but the speed of its rise over the past four months is a worry. A rule developed by Claudia Sahm shows that historically, the economy is already in a recession once the three-month average of the unemployment rate rises at least a half percentage point above its low in the past 12 months. That has happened. The US labour market is cooling down at a pace that must leave monetary policymakers uncertain as to where things will stand in September, when they meet next. Non-farm payrolls still rose by 114,000 last month, but jobs need to grow by a modest amount just to keep pace with population and labour force growth. The payrolls figure was down from a revised 179,000 a month earlier. In an economy in which labour market weakness tends to snowball, Fed policymakers surely must be on high alert after the latest statistics. Even modest upticks in unemployment can lead to reduced consumption, which can lead to weakness elsewhere in the economy. Thats in part the intuition of the Sahm Rule, and it demands that policymakers always act in a forward-looking manner. Having said that, theres probably some overreaction in the market following the report. The S&P 500 Index fell and the yield on 10-year Treasury notes dropped 16 basis points to 3.82%. These are pre-recessionary market dynamics, though theres nothing in the numbers that come close to confirming a downturn. Lets keep things in context: The US GDP grew at an annualized pace of 2.8% in the second quarter. Additionally, there areas always plenty of conflicting narratives and sources of potential noise under the surface in the labour market data itself. The weak data comes at a time when Hurricane Beryl struck Texas during the reference period. In its report, the Bureau of Labor Statistics wrote that it had no discernible effect" on the data, but there was a large increase in the number of people reporting that they didnt work due to bad weather. There was also a large increase in temporary layoffs, but less movement in permanent layoffs, as Burning Glass Institute Director of Economic Research Guy Berger pointed out on X. Given the hurricane impact, that seems like an important point. In previous months, the uptick in unemployment had come from an increase in labour supply; job market entrants and re-entrants who dont immediately find work raise the unemployment rate. As for the Sahm Rule, even Claudia herself has repeatedly emphasized that its not a law of nature and that this time could be different. That comes off of historical experience; that doesnt necessarily tell us where we are right at this moment," she told Bloomberg Radios Tom Keene and Damian Sassower last week. Still, she was concerned about way too much momentum in the unemployment rate." Personally, I had been pounding the table for a rate cut earlier this week, much like my Bloomberg Opinion colleague Bill Dudley, the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York from 2009 to 2018. Even though I didnt see an imminent downturn, I simply thought it was the better risk-management move. Having missed that opportunity, policymakers may have to hurry to ease rates when they meet again in September if further data confirms the recent trend. Despite their inaction last week, policymakers are clearly aware of the risks and just needed a bit more convincing. In his press conference, Fed Chair Jerome Powell was asked explicitly, by Jean Yung of MNI Market News, about the possibility of a 50-basis-point cut. Although he reflexively pushed back at the notion, he wisely edited himself in real time to leave the door open. I dont want to be really specific about what were going to do, but thats not something were thinking about right now," Powell said, before adding: Of course, we havent made any decisions at all as of today." Also read: Lousy jobs report forces Fed to reckon with hard landing Nor is it likely that they have made any decisions after the latest jobs report. But fortunately, they have a lot of monetary policy firepower at their disposal with rates at a two-decade high of 5.25%-5.5%. They should prepare to use it. bloomberg Union environment minister Bhupender Yadav on Monday blamed the Kerala government for the Wayanad disaster that killed more than 400 people, saying it allowed illegal settlements and mining in the fragile region. The Kerala government hit back, saying the need of the hour was greater financial assistance from the Centre, rather than blame. Relentless rains on 30 July caused two massive landslides in Wayanad. According to the Kerala State Electricity Board, as many as 302 houses were reduced to rubble in the disaster zone. A government statement on Monday said 352 houses had been wiped out and 122 others damaged. The official death toll clocked 226 while the the number of missing was put at 180. Unofficial estimates indicated that the death toll alone had crossed 400. Yadav said no environmental clearance had been given to Kerala for development projects in the past 10 years, except for one that is yet to start. The Kerala government allowed illegal mining, uncontrolled construction and unregulated commercial activity in the states fragile region that resulted in the devastating landslides in Wayanad district," Yadav told reporters. Also Read: Wayanad landslides | Pet parrots warning helps Chooralmala resident save his family, neighbours: Report We did not grant environmental clearance to the state in the past 10 years for any development project, except one (a four-lane tunnel-road on the Anakkampoyli-Kalladi-Meppadi stretch) but the work has not started yet. The Kerala government had the environmental clearance power and cleared three projects, Yadav said. The problem is that when we expand human habitat in such ecologically fragile areas, we need to check the condition of rocks, soil topography, geomorphology, slop angle of habitat in hilly areas and the structure of vegetation. The Kerala government did not pay attention to these in the last 10 years. That is the reason why when torrential rain was there, such a disaster took place. Illegal mining in non-forest land, uncontrolled construction and unregulated commercial activity near that area are the causes of landslides in Wayanad, Yadav said. Senior officials at the ministry pointed out that in the past three years, Kerala granted environmental clearance for three quarries, two of which are for granite stone in Wayanad district. Former chairman of the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel, Madhav Gadgil, has termed the disaster that nearly wiped out the regions of Chooralmala and Mundakkai, as a man-made tragedy. He attributed it to the Kerala governments failure to implement essential ecological recommendations. Forest minister of Kerala A.K. Saseendran condemned Yadav's statements, saying it was the wrong time to blame one another. "To say that this disaster was caused by Kerala's wrong actions, raises the suspicion that the Centre may be planning to deny the rightful financial assistance to the state. Kerala has collectively demanded that this tragedy be declared as a 'national disaster'. The Union environment minister's stand to not help the state at this time will be seen as injustice to the people of the state" Saseendran said. Appointed by the ministry of environment, forest and climate change, the Gadgil-led panel was established in 2010 to develop conservation strategies for the Western Ghats. Also Read: Wayanad landslides: One of the first informers dies before rescuers reach herI live behind the school Between 2014 and 2020, Kerala alone accounted for 61.21% of the 3,656 landslides in the country, according to a statement by the ministry of earth sciences in the Lok Sabha. Another high-level working group, led by K. Kasturirangan and formed in 2013, proposed 37% of Western Ghats to be declared as eco-sensitive areas. It also asked for a blanket ban on mining, quarrying and thermal power projects. Yadav further said the consultation with states on the notification of eco-sensitive zone in the Western Ghats should be finalized soon. The environment ministry has issued six draft notifications, including one issued on 31 July, since March 10, 2014, to declare over 56,800 sq km of the Western Ghats across six states as eco-sensitive but the final notification is pending amid objections from states. Bangladesh protests: Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister on Monday and fled the country after being in power for the past 15 years. This sudden turn of events in neighbouring Bangladesh has created a political vacuum, with Bangladesh's Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman talking to the President on Monday, to form an interim government. Political experts said that Sheikh Hasina's hurried and unceremonious departure may lead to the possibility of former US-leaning bureaucrats and governors taking over next. Though experts said military rule is unlikely, they cannot rule out the possibility of Bangladeshi Hindu nationals migrating to India over time. Questions about the possible migration of Hindus to India have erupted after BJP leader Suvendu Adhikaris comment. Get Ready 1 crore Bangladeshi Hindus will be coming to Bengal," the leader warned, media reports stated today. Also Read | Bangladesh unrest: Jaishankar informs Parliament Sheikh Hasina in India Speaking to LiveMint, Pallab Bhattacharya, former PTI special correspondent for Dhaka, who is currently associated with Dhakas The Daily Star, said the Hindu population drastically reduced to around nine per cent of the total population from 21 per cent at one point in time, showing how powerful the anti-minority forces are in Bangladesh. Following the student protests, on August 4, several Hindu temples, including the ISKCON and Kali temples in Bangladesh, were destroyed. While these attacks may not be the immediate cause of migration, as attacks on minorities in Bangladesh have taken place irrespective of the ruling party, there could be a gradual process in play, opined Pallab Bhattacharya. The latest round of attacks on Hindus may not immediately trigger their exodus, but a quiet migration is not ruled out given an uncertain future for them under a non-Awami League regime, Bhattacharya told LiveMint. Another journalist from Bangladesh, Awil Ibrahim, shared a similar view over the phone, from Dhaka. Minorities will be oppressed if an extremist party comes to power, he told LiveMint, hinting at imminent mass migration. Who will form the government? With no definite answer on which party will come to power in Bangladesh, Indias biggest challenge lies in resetting ties with a new government in Dhaka. While the Bangladesh military is unlikely to run the country, Pallab Bhattacharya said several names, including those of former bureaucrats and governors, that have been floating around for forming the next government. Among the list of names doing the rounds as the head of an interim government promised by Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman are former Bangladesh Bank Governor Salehuddin Ahmed and retired bureaucrat Badiul Alam Mojumder, said Pallab Bhattacharya. He added that while people widely respect Ahmed as a non-partisan bureaucrat-economist, Mojumder, on the other hand, is considered close to the West, particularly the US. Also Read | Bangladesh unrest: Jaishankar informs Parliament Sheikh Hasina in India Meanwhile, Ibrahim hinted that a student-led government could be formed this time. Only one or two job quota coordinators have political affiliations, and citizens want a free and fair election, he said. Sheikh Hasina's 15-year tenure has come to an end following weeks of violent unrest that claimed nearly 300 lives. The government's efforts to quell the demonstrations, which it attributed to sabotage and opposition parties, included the use of gunfire, imposition of curfews, and widespread internet outages. However, these heavy-handed tactics only intensified public anger and led to even more widespread protests, newswire AFP reported. Meanwhile, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has said that as far as India is concerned, the first and most important signal we need to send to the people of Bangladesh is that we stand with them; there are no other vested interests that India has. Tharoor added that some disturbing reports are coming of attacks on Hindu homes, temples and individuals. We all saw the pictures of looting yesterday. It may calm down and stabilize in a couple of days; if it doesn't, then there is a risk even of refugees fleeing to our country and that would be a matter of grave concern, he noted. The Congress MP further said, I hope that our High Commissioner and our staff there are safe and monitoring the situation closely. We still don't know who is going to be in the interim government. There are some understandable concerns in India about the increasing influence of the Jamaat-e-Islami, which has taken a very hostile attitude to India in the past, and possible meddling by China and Pakistan...We don't want an unstable or an unfriendly neighbour. Earlier in the day, Mallikarjun Kharge (Rajya Sabha) and Rahul Gandhi (Lok Sabha), the leaders of the opposition in both houses, attended the all-party meeting convened by the central government to discuss the ongoing situation in Bangladesh. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar briefed the meeting regarding the situation. The student-led protests in Bangladesh initially sought to abolish a quota system for government jobs. Still, they became a larger uprising against Prime Minister Hasina and her ruling Awami League party. According to local media outlet Prothom Alo, clashes in Dhaka on Sunday resulted in at least 95 deaths, including 14 police officers, and left hundreds more injured. BJP MP Jagannath Sarkar said that minorities in Bangladesh are facing serious threats and that only Prime Minister Narendra Modi can ensure their safety and protect their property. He also stressed the need for urgent measures to safeguard the interests of these minorities. Mishra told ANI, Planned attacks are happening against the minorities in Bangladesh. Their properties are looted. The military has got support in there. This will become a threat to our country in the future. Our Prime Minister Naredra Modi and the Union Home Minister Amit Shah took the initiative to provide minorities with citizenship, then, it is their responsibility to protect them now. Action must be taken soon. Only PM Modi can deal with this kind of situation and save them. I am speaking as a member of the Hindu Bengal unit. I don't care about whosoever forms the government in Bangladesh. My only concern is that no damage must be caused to the lives and properties of the minorities, he highlighted. The political situation in Bangladesh remains unstable after Sheikh Hasinas resignation amid escalating protests. Initially sparked by students demanding the abolition of the quota system for government jobs, the demonstrations have expanded into widespread anti-government protests. Recent clashes in Dhaka have led to at least 135 deaths, including 14 police officers, with hundreds more injured, according to local media. Following her resignation, Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening. It is uncertain whether she will remain in Delhi or move on to another location, with speculation that she might travel to London. In response to the crisis, the Cabinet Committee on Security met at the Prime Minister's residence on Monday. The meeting, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, addressed the situation in Bangladesh, with senior officials also present for the briefing. People in ancient Egypt constructed the Step Pyramid. At around 204 feet tall, it was the tallest structure of its time for Pharaoh Djoser in the 27th century BC. At around 204 feet, it was the tallest structure of its time. However, the method by which they built the pyramid, using stones that weighed around 300 kilograms, remains a mystery that has puzzled experts for centuries. Egyptologists have debated about how the ancient Egyptians built the massive pyramids over 4,000 years ago. Recently, engineers and geologists introduced a fresh theory suggesting that a hydraulic lift system might have been used to float the heavy stones up the middle of Egypt's oldest pyramid using stored water, according to a study published in PLOS One. Many detailed publications have discussed pyramid-building procedures and provided tangible elements, but these usually focus on more recent, better-documented, and smaller pyramids of the Middle and New Kingdoms (1980 to 1075 BC), CNN quoted Dr. Xavier Landreau as saying. The lead author is the CEO of Paleotechnic in Paris. Also Read | Heatwave in Antarctica: Temperatures rise 50 degrees higher Dr. Landreau suggested that constructing large pyramids might have involved various techniques such as ramps, cranes, winches, toggle lifts, hoists, pivots or a mix. He noted that, while human strength and ramps might suffice for smaller structures, larger Old Kingdom pyramids likely required additional methods. According to the study, a complex water treatment system using local resources might have enabled a water-powered elevator to lift heavy stones through the pyramid's internal vertical shaft. The study suggests that some type of float was used to raise the stones, CNN added. August 6, 2024, marks exactly two months since Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, carrying Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams to the International Space Station, docked there. Sunita Williams, along with NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore, scripted history in June as they became the first members aboard Starliner to the ISS. The spacecraft was launched on June 5 and reached the ISS on June 6. It was reportedly supposed to return by June 14. However, thruster anomalies and helium leaks in the spacecraft have delayed the Starliner's return to Earth. NASA and Boeing have not confirmed any return date yet. It has been said that officials in space and on the ground continue to conduct tests and studies to find the root cause of the problems in Starliner and ensure the safe return of the two astronauts on the Boeing spacecraft. "It was a test flight [NASAs Boeing Crew Flight Test] and we were expecting some findings which could be used to improve the next flight," Sunita Williams had said on July 10. "As always, astronaut safety remains the top priority for both NASA and Boeing," NASA said in its statement on August 1. This was Boeings second flight to the ISS and third Starliner flight test overall. But this crew flight test was the first launch with astronauts of the Boeing spacecraft and United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket to the ISS as part of the agencys Commercial Crew Program. Is Starliner healthy now? Boeing said in a statement that extensive testing of Starliners propulsion system has been conducted. The aerospace company ensured that Starliners propulsion system "maintains redundancy and the helium levels remain stable". Boeing informed that the testing "has confirmed 27 of 28 RCS thrusters are healthy and back to full operational capability". As authorities take time to find the root cause of the anomalies in Starliner, Boeing said, The data also supports root cause assessments for the helium and thruster issues and flight rationale for Starliner and its crews return to Earth. Also Read | Scientists discover game-changer Helium deposits in Tanzania NASA officials had earlier said that the propulsion system is highly redundant on each other. "So if there was an issue in any one of the thrusters, the redundance will take over and bring us safely home," he added. Starliner's propulsion system is part of the spacecraft's "service module". The problems centre on this system, which is needed to back the Starliner capsule away from the ISS and position it to dive through Earth's atmosphere. Many of Starliner's thrusters had overheated when fired, and the leaks of helium used to pressurise the thrusters appear to be connected to how frequently they are used. The thrusters are needed to guide the Starliner spacecraft into position for reentry and also to slow the capsule to a proper speed before the service module separates. It is after this stage that the capsule takes that final plunge. To recap, the mission was delayed because at least one of the 28 thrusters was malfunctioning. 19 tests conducted Boeing and NASA conducted as many as 19 tests of Starliner's propulsion system. These include "roughly 1,00,000 computer model simulations representing potential variables and conditions Starliner could experience during undocking, the deorbit burn and landing". Seven ground tests of a Reaction Control System (RCS) thruster, pulled from the Starliner-1 Service Module, were conducted. There was one "free-flight hot fire" test and two docked hot fire tests. Besides, helium leak rate data was also measured. When a hot fire test of the Starliner spacecrafts reaction control system jets was conducted on July 27, "the teams verified [that] Starliner continues to show the margin needed to support a return trip from the station." DEPA and the EEC in Thailand: Agents for World Trade Leading in turning Thailand into a dynamic center for world trade and innovation are its Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) and Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). These projects not only improve Thailands economic situation but also help to establish her as a major actor on the global scene. DEPA: Leading Digital Transformation Thailands digital transformation is being driven in great part by DEPA. DEPA encourages innovation, increases production, and draws foreign investment by pushing the integration of cutting-edge technologies into many different fields. main advantages consist in: DEPA fosters the use of modern technologies including artificial intelligence, IoT, and blockchain as well as the building of digital infrastructure, thereby helping Thailand to lead in digital innovation. DEPA fosters entrepreneurship and draws tech-savvy personnel by building a strong startup ecosystem, therefore generating a dynamic business environment. Initiated by DEPA, digital transformation projects greatly help to create high-quality employment and increase competitiveness, therefore supporting economic development. The EEC: A portal to world trade A major initiative aiming at transforming Thailands eastern seaboard into a prominent economic zone is the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Important advantages and characteristics include: Strategically located at the junction of main shipping routes, the EEC acts as a gateway between ASEAN markets and the rest of the globe. Modern infrastructure including industrial estates, airports, and deep-sea ports as well as deep-sea ports helps the EEC to enable effective trade and logistics. The EEC gives international investors appealing benefits including tax reductions, simplified rules, and access to a qualified workforce. Linking Thailand to the World: Rail Connectivity The improved rail connectivity made possible by these projects is among the most amazing changes that help products to be transported from Thailand all the way to London. This evolution has various benefits: Rail travel offers companies a reasonably priced substitute for air and sea freight, therefore lowering shipping expenses. Enhanced supply chain efficiency and faster delivery of goods depend on better rail networks lowering of transit times. Sustainable Logistics: By lowering carbon emissions, rail travel is ecologically benign, so supporting sustainable trade patterns. Knightsbridge Group: Global Trades Partner The Knightsbridge Group is committed to guiding and enabling partners to seize these prospects. Having offices in London, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and the Thailand Digital Valley, Knightsbridge Group offers companies trying to increase their worldwide presence unmatched support and knowledge. Our offerings consist of: Asia Business Hub: One-stop service center for doing business in Asia. Financial Services: Providing solutions and state-of-the-art software for institutions, high net worth investors and governments to reach global markets. Unique Incubator/VC Program: Offering a distinctive incubator/VC program that supports innovative startups. Knightsbridge is the conduit to much needed capital whether its private or eventual public global listings. Ideal Partner for Business in Asia: Perfectly positioned to assist businesses looking to enter or expand in the Asian market. Our rolodex is diverse and powerful. Its spans the highest levels of both government and corporate entities as well as some of the wealthiest individuals in the world. DEPA and the EEC taken together are essential in turning Thailand into a hub of worldwide trade and creativity. Thailand is positioned to become a major participant in the worldwide market by using strategic infrastructure investments and technology developments. The ability of Thailand to send commodities by train from Thailand to London shows the nations increasing connectivity and its capacity to stimulate worldwide economic development. The Knightsbridge Group is ready to help companies seize these chances thereby guaranteeing long-term viability and expansion. ASOTIN Two Asotin County departments are getting new software systems next month, and business at the assessors and treasurers will be limited during the switch. Assessor Jenny Rynearson and Treasurer Holly Steiner said the upgrades have been in the works for more than two years, and installment and training is slated for Sept. 9-20. During those two weeks, both offices will have limited hours and services. Were replacing the old software to get the assessors office in state compliance with our annual evaluations, Rynearson told the Asotin County commissioners Monday morning. Both of our offices will be unable to handle certain processes during the upgrade, and we want to make sure the public knows the old system will be down until were fully converted. Funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act are covering the cost of the new software, which is in the $1 million range, Rynearson said. The Harris Govern PACS product was chosen after the county reviewed bids. This was our opportunity to make much-needed improvements, Steiner said. Once its done, the public will have online access to so much more than they do now. For example, all of our tax rolls will be online. Asotin County is the 17th county in the state to get the new program. Benton and Columbia counties are already using it, and the public will be able to view the complete sales histories of properties, tax information, photographs and links to interactive maps, the assessor said. During the transition, no cash or credit card payments can be made at the treasurers office window, Steiner said. Any online payments will be processed after the system goes live. Both offices will be open for a couple of hours in the morning during those two weeks, but most daily functions will not be back in action until Sept. 23. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: August 06 2024 Governors Family-Centered Services Initiative Supports Local Departments That Serve Hundreds of Thousands of Low-Income Families Across New York. Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $17.2 million in awards through the Family-Centered Services initiative to strengthen social services that help vulnerable families achieve financial stability. This funding will help local social services departments throughout New York to hire more staff as they continue serving hundreds of thousands of low-income families statewide. Were strengthening the critical resources that help struggling New Yorkers meet their essential needs and transition to economic security, Governor Hochul said. By giving local social services departments the funding to hire more staff and bolster operations, we can bring more families out of poverty and into a brighter future. The $17.2 million awarded today includes investments in local social services departments in regions throughout the state: Region Amount Capital Region $1,984,616 Central New York $1,653,845 Finger Lakes $1,819,235 Long Island $1,323,074 Mid-Hudson $2,480,767 Mohawk Valley $1,323,078 New York City $1,157,687 North Country $1,323,079 Southern Tier $1,653,848 Western New York $2,480,771 The Family-Centered Services initiative was first announced in the 2024 State of the State address and continues Governor Hochuls deep commitment to strengthening the social service network and lifting families out of poverty. The initiative addresses the challenges of family poverty by ensuring local social services departments across the state will have trained staff available to provide targeted interventions that support the entire family. This includes assisting families with complex needs such as mental health conditions, developmental disabilities, substance use disorders and those experiencing homelessness or domestic violence. The funding will enable local departments to hire from one to seven full-time credentialed or appropriately experienced staff, depending on the size of the countys caseload. The new staff will provide a range of case management services that could include in-depth assessments, crisis intervention, resource navigation and peer support to stabilize household conditions, among others. Local departments will tailor their initiatives to meet the unique needs of the households they serve. Some may choose to focus on the needs of homeless families or households facing mental health conditions, while others may focus more on encouraging paths to employment. Families will be referred to the program based on locally developed criteria. Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, The causes of poverty are often complex and addressing them requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the specific needs of each family. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for recognizing the power of the Family-Centered Services initiative so social services districts are better equipped to help caregivers achieve financial stability and family well-being. Office of Children and Family Services Commissioner Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden said, We are proud to stand with Governor Hochul and our agency counterparts to continue the efforts of removing some of the structural barriers to self-sufficiency and overcoming poverty. Access to services and supports that address basic needs can be life changing; hence, the necessity to invest in safety nets, including more staffing and training. Through the Family-Centered Services Initiative, we are expanding and strengthening the workforce which will assist families with competing and compelling needs. Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, All New Yorkers should have a home where they can live and thrive within their community. These critical wrap-around services help individuals and families successfully move forward with greater stability and financial security, which in turn supports mental wellness. I commend Governor Hochul for making it a priority of her administration that our families in need can access these critical services and supports. Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Executive Director Kelli Owens said, Access to critical social services is vital to supporting domestic violence survivors and their families in their journey to healing and financial independence. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for this funding which will help those in their times of need. Ensuring there are dedicated and specially trained support staff to help survivors and others going through difficult times shows New Yorks continued commitment to supporting OPDVs mission of being survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive. State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud said, As the Chair of the NYS Senate Social Services Committee, I applaud the Governor's announcement of $17.2 million for the Family-Centered Services initiative. I supported this funding in the SFY 2024-2025 budget because it will empower local social services districts across New York State to hire additional trained staff and enhance supports available to low-income families. State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, New York takes care of its own, especially when it comes to supporting our neighbors who need it most. Governor Hochuls new Family Centered Services initiative will provide much needed financial support to local social service departments to better equip them to hire additional staff members and provide greater service to thousands of low-income families across New York State that rely on their services. This $17.2 million investment, including over $1 million for New York City, is further proof of the commitment made by Governor Hochul, Leader Stewart-Cousins, and my colleagues in both houses of the legislature to use the power of government to support New York States struggling families. Assemblymember Maritza Davila said, As the chair of the New York State Social Services Committee, I am dedicated to enhancing and expanding essential services for all residents; so that they can have access to the support and resources they need to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. I commend Governor Kathy Hochul for her support in providing $17.2 Million towards social services agencies that will increase much needed staffing and tools to continue servicing low-income families throughout New York State. Its our responsibility to ensure equitable access to healthcare, housing, education, and employment opportunities, to create an inclusive environment for every individual and family. We are committed to implementing policies that break down barriers and promote inclusion, which requires legislation and funding. Assemblymember Demond Meeks said, With Rochester being home to three out of the top five poorest zip codes in all of New York State, many of our families struggle to make ends meet and depend on public assistance for their most basic necessities. We must continue to strengthen the resources that help our most vulnerable children and families achieve stability. I thank Governor Hochul for taking a holistic approach and making the necessary investments to improve essential social services throughout our state. New York Public Welfare Association Executive Director Paul Brady said, This funding will provide a much-needed boost to local social services districts and enable them to better serve some of our most vulnerable families by helping them overcome barriers to connecting with the services they need. The Family-Centered Services initiative represents an innovative approach to addressing family poverty that underscores the importance of ongoing collaboration between the state and local governments that benefits all New Yorkers. United Way of New York City CEO Grace Bonilla said, At United Way of New York City, we recognize that the path to stability for families facing poverty is multifaceted and deeply personal. By focusing on the hiring of culturally competent, credentialed, and experienced staff, this initiative ensures that the support provided is both expert and empathetic. Our families deserve nothing less than the very best in tailored, responsive care. This investment by Governor Hochul is a critical step in addressing the complex needs of our communities, and we are proud to support this vital effort to uplift New York's most vulnerable families. Catholic Charities Family and Community Services President & CEO Lori VanAuken said, We are thrilled that additional resources are coming into our community to support families as they work toward greater financial security. As an agency that has historically served families living in poverty, funding of this magnitude can make a transformational difference to the lives of the people we serve. We look forward to our continued partnership with New York State and our local Department of Human Services. Albany Community Action Partnership Executive Director Neenah Bland said, Albany Community Action Partnership has provided services using a family centered approach for many years. Our experience as a community action agency underscores the effectiveness of a family-centered service model. We have seen the success in adopting a two-generation approach to services and the return on investment in comprehensively training staff to provide targeted individualized interventions including wraparound services addressing the multifaceted challenges families face. It is our belief that this holistic approach will stabilize households in crisis, fostering movement towards financial security, and ensuring all generations receive the support they need to thrive. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: August 06 2024 Mid-Hudson, New York City and Long Island Could See Up to Five Inches of Rain by Wednesday. Governor Hochul today urged New Yorkers in the lower Hudson Valley, New York City and Long Island areas to prepare for heavy rain and likely flash flooding starting this afternoon and continuing into Wednesday. Some areas could see up to five inches of rain and rainfall rates up to three inches per hour into Wednesday. Photo Credit: Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul Governor Hochul today urged New Yorkers in the lower Hudson Valley, New York City and Long Island areas to prepare for heavy rain and likely flash flooding starting this afternoon and continuing into Wednesday. Some areas could see up to five inches of rain and rainfall rates up to three inches per hour into Wednesday. Governor Hochul also warned of additional heavy rain possible Thursday into Saturday due to tropical moisture associated with Tropical Cyclone Debby. New York is no stranger to extreme weather and the potential danger of flash flooding, Governor Hochul said. My administration is monitoring closely and deploying resources to keep New Yorkers safe, and I encourage everyone to remain vigilant and watch the forecast closely over the next several days. Heavy rain will begin this afternoon in the lower Mid-Hudson, New York City and Long Island regions with up to two inches of widespread rain and locally heavier amounts up to five inches possible in some locations by Wednesday. Rain could fall at rates up to two inches per hour with local rainfall rates up to three inches at times. Significant flash flooding may occur in areas with high rainfall rates. There is also a risk for isolated severe thunderstorms with damaging winds gusts this afternoon and evening. Flash flooding of urban and poor drainage areas and along rivers and streams are possible, as well as impacts to transportation, basements, first floors of residences and businesses, and underground infrastructure, as well as power outages. Agency Preparations Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services At Governor Hochul's direction, the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to track the storm in real-time and support local governments requests for assistance. The States swift water rescue teams are being pre-staged downstate, and all state stockpiles are ready to deploy resources as needed. The New York State Fire Operations Center will open today to support state agency operations and receive any requests submitted via the State Fire Mobilization and Mutual Aid plan. Division of Military and Naval Affairs The New York National Guard will mobilize 100 Soldiers and Airmen with 25 high-axle vehicles to provide assistance to New York City and local governments on Long Island if required. Eighty personnel and 20 vehicles will be positioned at Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn and JFK International Airport. Twenty Airmen and five vehicles will be on call at F.S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base in Westhampton Beach. Department of Transportation The State Department of Transportation is monitoring weather conditions and prepared to respond with more than 3,429 supervisors and operators. All field staff are available to fully engage and respond and can be configured into any type of response crews needed such as flood response, chipper, load & haul, sewer jet, cut & toss, traffic signal, etc. All residencies in impacted locations will remain staffed with operators, supervisors, and mechanics throughout the duration of the event and priority cleanup operations. Statewide equipment numbers are as follows: 1,415 large dump trucks 322 large loaders 89 chippers 84 wheeled and tracked excavators 33 traffic tower platforms 16 vacuum trucks with sewer jets 11 tree crew bucket trucks Thruway Authority Thruway Authority staff is monitoring the weather and inspecting drainage systems, and is ready to respond to any flood related issues across the state with 671 operators and supervisors, small to medium sized excavators, plow/dump trucks, large loaders, portable VMS boards, portable light towers, smaller generators, smaller pumps and equipment hauling trailers, as well as signage and other traffic control devices available for any detours or closures. Variable Message Signs and social media are utilized to alert motorists of weather conditions on the Thruway. Statewide equipment numbers are as follows: 346 large and small dump trucks 63 loaders 34 trailers 6 vac trucks 13 excavators 7 brush chippers 100 chainsaws 22 aerial trucks 25 skid steers 86 portable generators 70 portable light units The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to live traffic cameras, real-time traffic information and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway, follow @ThruwayTraffic on X, and visit thruway.ny.gov to see an interactive map showing traffic conditions for the Thruway and other New York State roadways. New York State Department of Public Service New York's utilities have approximately 5,600 workers available to engage in damage assessment, response, repair, and restoration efforts across New York State for this event, including 85 additional workers secured by Con Edison and Orange & Rockland. Agency staff will track utilities' work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact. New York State Police State Police are prepared to deploy additional Troopers, as needed, to affected areas. All State Police specialized vehicles, including four-wheel drive vehicles and utility task vehicles, are staged and ready for immediate response. All Troop emergency power and communications equipment has been tested. Department of Environmental Conservation Department of Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, Emergency Management staff, and regional staff are on alert and monitoring the developing situation and weather forecasts, and actively patrolling areas and infrastructure likely to be impacted by severe weather. All available assets, including swift water rescue teams, are positioned to assist with any emergency response. Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Park visitors should visit parks.ny.gov, check the free NY State Parks Explorer mobile app or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings. Metropolitan Transportation Authority The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is closely monitoring weather conditions to ensure safe, reliable service. MTA employees will be poised to respond to any weather-related issues. To reduce the likelihood of flooding and respond to any instances of flooding, MTA crews will inspect drains in flood-prone areas to ensure they are functional, and supervisors will monitor flood-prone locations for any reports of flooding to ensure quick response. Elevator and escalator specialists will be deployed to flood-prone locations to attend to any weather-related elevator and escalator troubles. Customers are encouraged to check new.mta.info for the latest service updates, and to use caution while navigating the system. Customers should also sign up for real-time service alerts via text or email. These alerts are also available via the MTA app and the TrainTime app. Port Authority The Port Authority monitors weather conditions across all its facilities. In the event of severe weather, the agency issues travel alerts and updates as needed via facility email alerts and on social media. For the latest information about Port Authority facilities, please check social media, sign up for PA Alerts, or download one of the PA mobile apps, including RidePATH, which provides real-time updates and alerts for PATH service. Severe Weather Safety Tips Disaster Supplies: Have supplies on hand, including: Flashlight and extra batteries Battery-operated radio and extra batteries First aid kit and manual Emergency food and water Non-electric can opener Essential medicines Checkbook, cash, credit cards, ATM cards Flash Flooding Safety Tips: Never attempt to drive on a flooded road. Turn around and go another way. If water begins to rise rapidly around you in your car, abandon the vehicle immediately. Do not underestimate the power of fast-moving water. Two feet of fast-moving flood water will float your car, and water moving at two miles per hour can sweep cars off a road or bridge. Thunderstorm Safety Tips: If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to a safe shelter immediately. Move to a sturdy building. Do not take shelter in small sheds, under isolated trees, or in convertible automobiles. If lightning occurs and sturdy shelter is not available, get inside a hard top automobile and keep windows up. Get out of boats and away from water. Telephone lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity. Unplug appliances not necessary for obtaining weather information. Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. Do not take a bath or shower. Turn off air conditioners power surges from lightning can overload compressors. Get to higher ground if flash flooding or flooding is possible. Do not attempt to drive to safety most flash flooding deaths occur in automobiles. If outdoors, find a low spot away from trees, fences, and poles. If you are in the woods, take shelter under short trees. If you feel your skin tingle or your hair stands on end, squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet; place your hands on your knees with your head between them; make yourself the smallest target possible; and minimize your contact with the ground. Power Outage Safety Tips: If experiencing a power outage, New Yorkers should: Turn off or disconnect major appliances and other equipment, e.g., computers, in case of a momentary power surge that can damage these devices. Keep one light turned on so you know when power returns. Consider using surge protectors wherever you use electronic equipment. Call your utility provider to notify them of the outage and listen to local broadcasts for official information. For a list of utilities, visit the State Department of Public Service. Check to see if your neighbors have power. Check on people with access or functional needs. Use only flashlights for emergency lighting - candles pose the risk of fire. Keep refrigerators and freezer doors closed - most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for several hours. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for approximately four (4) hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Do not use a charcoal grill indoors and do not use a gas stove for heat - they could give off harmful levels of carbon monoxide. If you are in a tall building, take the stairs and move to the lowest level of the building. If trapped in an elevator, wait for assistance. Do not attempt to force the doors open. Remain patient - there is plenty of air and the interior of the elevator is designed for passenger safety. Remember to provide fresh, cool water for your pets. Eliminate unnecessary travel, especially by car. Traffic signals will stop working during an outage, creating traffic congestion and dangerous driving conditions. If you must drive during a blackout, remember to obey the 4-way stop rule at intersections with non-functioning traffic signals. Remember that equipment such as automated teller machines (ATMs) and elevators may not be working. For more safety tips, visit: https://www.dhses.ny.gov/safety-and-prevention. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: August 06 2024 The ban will make mask-wearing a misdemeanor that is punishable by up to one year in jail or a $1,000 fine. Monday night, lawmakers in Nassau County controversially voted to ban the wearing of masks in public for the purposes of concealing identity. The Republican-backed "Mask Transparency Act" was passed by a vote along party lines, with 12 legislators voting in favor and seven abstaining. The ban's stated purpose is to prevent crimes committed by those wearing masks, including a troubling rise in antisemitic incidents in recent months. Upon the passing of the ban, County Executive Bruce Blakeman - who is expected to sign it into law when the bill reaches his desk - issued a statement, saying, Unless someone has a medical condition or a religious imperative, people should not be allowed to cover their face in a manner that hides their identity when in public." The ban will make mask-wearing a misdemeanor that is punishable by up to one year in jail or a $1,000 fine. Law enforcement will have discretion when it comes to determining if an individual is wearing a mask for a legitimate purpose or not. At a public meeting held prior to the vote, a mask-wearing woman reportedly became disruptive at approximately 6:30 p.m. and was arrested by police. Last week Talha Mahmud Chowdhury, a student and supporter of the Revolutionary Communist International, was abducted by members of the Chhatra League, the thugs of Hasinas Awami League, and imprisoned on serious, trumped-up charges of attempted murder and vandalism. Today we received the news that, following the fall of Hasinas regime, he is expected to be released tomorrow. For the crime of supporting the heroic quota movement and opposing Sheikh Hasinas government, Talha has been locked up in the Khulshi Police Station, in Chattogram, for the past three weeks. While government forces were marauding around the country, massacring students and workers, revolutionaries like Talha, with the courage to stand up to the real criminals, have been languishing in jail cells. Talha would never have been released were it not for an energetic campaign bravely fought by students at his own university of East Delta University (EDU), and many more students and workers across Bangladesh. A procession in celebration organised by the students at EDU is planned for tomorrow. We would like to send particular thanks, however, to the comrades and supporters of the Revolutionary Communist International, and readers of this website, for protesting for Talhas release. The billionaire press and the politicians of the so-called free world have been completely silent about Hasinas murders and attacks on democratic rights. In Britain, Keir Starmers silence is all the more conspicuous as Hasainas niece, Tulip Saddiq, sits behind him as a Labour minister in the House of Commons. This complicit silence of our own ruling classes makes it all the more important, therefore, for workers and students across the world to stand in solidarity with the revolutionary masses in Bangladesh. The victorious campaign to free Talha gives a small glimpse of the importance of internationalism and the power of revolutionary solidarity. The Revolutionary Communist International launched a worldwide campaign to free Talha, along with the thousands of other student and worker activists thrown in jail. In London, Berlin, Dublin, and Vienna, revolutionary communist gathered to protest the criminal regime and demand Talhas release. Supporters around the planet put pressure on their Bangladeshi embassies, high commissions, and diplomatic missions to demand Talhas and the other detainees immediate release. Now Talha has been freed and the tyrant has fallen. Thank you to all who protested in solidarity with Talha! Long live the international solidarity of the workers and students of all countries! Def Leppard and Journey will be at Fenway Park in Boston, MA on Monday, August 5 as part of the next stop on their tour and tickets are selling for less than $100. Fans looking to get last-minute tickets to see the 1970s and 80s rock legends can still shop for tickets online using StubHub, VividSeats and SeatGeek. *New customers who purchase tickets through VividSeats can get $20 off a $200+ ticket order by using the promo code MassLive20 at checkout.* The cheapest ticket prices on the day of the show are $60 on StubHub, $72 on VividSeats and $66 on SeatGeek. The show is part of the Nucar Fenway Concert Series presented by Wasabi Technologies. The 23-city tour kicked off on July 6, at Busch Stadium in St. Louis and will wrap up on Sept. 8 at Coors Field in Denver. An all-star lineup of bands will accompany the two bands in certain cities, including the Steve Miller Band, Heart and Cheap Trick. Def Leppard played a sold-out stadium run in summer 2022 with Motley Crue, Poison and Joan Jett & The Blackhearts and continued a worldwide tour with Motley Crue in 2023. The two rock bands have popular hits including Any Way You Want It, Dont Stop Believin, Photograph and Pour Some Sugar on Me. Here is a look at the remaining tour schedule for Def Leppard and Journey with links to purchase tickets: A Boston man is facing a slew of charges after he tried to stab a man to death while stealing his motorcycle and then abused his girlfriends dog, according to the Suffolk County District Attorneys Office. Abram Acevedo, 31, has been charged with attempted murder, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon (a knife), assault with a dangerous weapon (a broom), animal cruelty and witness intimidation in connection with two violent incidents from earlier this summer, the district attorneys office said in a Tuesday press release. Boston police began investigating Acevedo on June 24 after officers driving down Centre Street noticed a 49-year-old man bleeding heavily down his left side, the district attorneys office said. The man had multiple stab wounds in his left arm, and was taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. An off-duty Massachusetts police officer resuscitated a 2-year-old girl while vacationing with his family in New Hampshire over the weekend after the toddler nearly drowned in a lake. Chelmsford Police Officer Matthew Sech was at Iona Lake in Albany, New Hampshire, around 11 a.m. on Friday when he heard screams coming from the shoreline, according to a press release from Chelmsford police. A woman had just pulled her child from the water, and the girl was unresponsive. Sech quickly delivered back blows to the toddler to expel water from her lungs, police said. The girl regained consciousness but was still lethargic. (*This story was updated at 3:02 p.m., on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, with additional reporting.) Boston Mayor Michelle Wu isnt giving up on her plan to shift the citys property tax burden toward commercial property owners, saying she hopes lawmakers on Beacon Hill will yet give it the green light. Lawmakers in the state House and Senate wrapped formal sessions last week without sending a completed version of Wus home rule petition to Gov. Maura Healeys desk. If this does not happen, every single resident in the city of Boston will know that their taxes are going up because the Senate did not vote through that last step, Wu said during an appearance on GBH News Boston Public Radio program on Tuesday. The tax reclassification made it past the majority-Democrat House after last-minute negotiations earlier in the week, with Wu agreeing to lower the amount of the shift and shorten the time during which it would apply, MassLive previously reported. But the bill didnt clear the state Senate, also controlled by Democrats, by the time lawmakers gaveled out at mid-morning on Aug. 1. Wu pronounced herself very disappointed with the lack of action, telling The Boston Globe that like so many other pieces of legislation, this one is too important for our residents for it to be over. Read More: Future of Boston property tax shift unclear after stalling on Beacon Hill In an email, a spokesperson for Senate President Karen E. Spilka, D-Middlesex/Norfolk, hit back at Wu, saying that while blaming the Senate may be politically convenient for the mayor ... it does nothing to improve a policy proposal that has been widely questioned by fiscal watchdog agencies and could do serious damage to Bostons economy. Spilka has received no indication that there is sufficient support among Senators for this policy proposal to move forward, the spokesperson said. The tax shift bill has been widely criticized by the business and real estate communities, who worry that it would put more of a burden on small businesses at a time when they are already struggling. Anyone who walks down the streets of Boston will immediately notice all the vacant commercial properties, Paul Craney, a spokesperson for the conservative Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance, said. If Mayor Wu had her way, she would have made Bostons economic recovery more painful and much slower ... Boston politicians need to embrace the idea of making Boston more affordable by lowering taxes and eliminating regulations. Wu said Tuesday that shes just trying to make sure the playing field stays level between commercial and residential property owners. The proposal we have on the table at the State House, really sort of remaining before the state Senate is not to raise taxes on businesses, Wu said Businesses will pay less with the proposal we have, she told the station. Its just to make it so that its more balance between residents and the commercial sector. (Reporting from State House News Service is included in this story.) Vice President Kamala Harris has erased former President Donald Trumps lead as the race for the White House heads into its final 90 days. A new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll released Tuesday, showed a 4-point swing in the race since last month, when Trump had a 1-point lead over Harris, shortly after President Joe Biden exited the race. Harris, who unveiled Minnesota Gov. Tom Walz as her running mate on Tuesday, held a 51%-48% lead over Trump in a hypothetical, head-to-head matchup, the poll showed. The sample of registered voters includes undecided voters, but leaning toward a particular candidate. Just 2% of the 1,513 registered voters in the poll were undecided. The poll, conducted between Aug. 1 and Aug. 4, had a margin of error of 3.4%, rendering the race a statistical dead heat. But it also is the second poll released this week to show a significant swing in public support for Harris, who formally secured the Democratic presidential nomination on Monday becoming the first woman of color to lead a major party ticket, The Associated Press reported. Democratic vice presidential running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, left, and Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris.AP A University of Massachusetts Amherst poll conducted between July 29 and Aug. 1 showed a 7-point swing in the presidential race since the last poll was conducted in January. Harris similarly led Trump 53%-39% in New York, a key Democratic stronghold, in a Siena College Research Institute poll released Tuesday morning, Politico reported. In the new Marist poll, Harris, of California, has made inroads among independents, Black voters, white voters with a college degree, women and voters 35 years of age or older. Harris maintains her edge in the multi-candidate field, which includes Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Jill Stein, Cornel West and Chase Oliver, pollsters noted. The new poll shows Harris with a 53%-44% lead over Trump, with 3% of independent voters undecided. And regardless of whom they support, registered voters divide (48% to 48%) as to who they think will win the presidential election, according to the poll. Trump previously had a 20-percentage point advantage over Biden on this question. Fifty-two percent of independents currently believe Harris will win in November, according to the poll. Harris was set to campaign with Walz in Philadelphia on Tuesday, as the new ticket kicked off a tour of battleground states. These are rough days for the folks behind Project 2025. First, former President Donald Trump sought to distance himself from the conservative governing blueprint that would, among other things, eliminate the U.S. Department of Education, dismantle the civil service system, and impose sweeping restrictions on abortion rights. Then the top leader behind the project spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation, a right-wing Washington D.C. think-tank, announced he was leaving amid blowback from both Trump and Democrats who had transformed it into an effective fundraising tool. The think-tank has vowed to soldier on, arguing that its collective efforts to build a personnel apparatus for policymakers of all levels federal, state, and local will continue, according to The Associated Press. However, if a new UMass Amherst poll is any indication, they might want to reconsider. By broad margins, 1,000 nationwide respondents rejected most of the primary tenets behind the project, setting it up as a political loser with control of the White House and Congress on the line. That same poll already pointed to trouble for the GOP, with Vice President Kamala Harris opening a 3-point lead over Trump in the less than three weeks since shes become the Democrats de facto presidential nominee. Harris holds a 46%-43% lead over Trump in the poll conducted between July 29 and Aug. 1. And while thats still well within the polls 3.8% margin of error, it nonetheless represents a 7-point swing from a January UMass poll that showed Trump with a 43%-39% lead over Biden. Harriss entry has really shaken up the presidential race, UMass pollster Jesse Rhodes said. Where Donald Trump was once heavily favored over Joe Biden, we now see Harris with a narrow lead. This appears to be driven by big shifts among young voters, African Americans, and Latinx Americans toward Harris. Moderates also appear to have shifted dramatically to Harris. The 2024 presidential election is still extremely close, but its an entirely different race than it was a month ago. The GOPs embrace of the Project 2025 agenda may be helping to drive that shift. For instance, 51% of respondents said theyd oppose federal efforts to reduce civil rights protections for LGBTQ Americans. Seventy-two percent of respondents said they opposed reducing access to contraception. And nearly two-thirds, 64%, said theyd oppose getting rid of the U.S. Department of Education. They also opposed, 56%-23%, cutting federal support for the research and development of renewable energy; and rejected, 68%-12%, firing thousands of federal employees and replacing them with political appointees only loyal to the sitting president. But respondents were narrowly divided, 40%-39%, over ending federal policies that supported diversity, equity, and inclusion in education, employment, and housing. They also backed 43%-34%, shutting down social media companies and internet sites that depict, or contain links to, depictions of pornography. A majority of the polls respondents (53%) said theyd heard some or a lot about Project 2025, compared to a quarter who said they hadnt heard much, and 22% who said theyd never heard of it. Respondents to the new poll already view this Novembers election as a high-stakes contest, with nearly 9 in 10 of them saying its extremely or very important to the nations future. And in a polarized country, many voters also see this election as critical for particular groups of Americans who feel threatened by either party winning, UMass political scientist Ray La Raja said in a statement accompanying the polling memo. Sixty-nine percent say the election results are extremely or very important for the future of women, and 66% say the same about people of color, he continued. On the other side of the partisan divide, 49% say it is extremely or very important for the future of Christians, while 43% say the same about white people, he continued. Reflecting national trends, Trump came into the poll with an image problem. The Republican nominees pugnacious reputation is a hindrance people know him well, and many dont like at least some of his qualities, Rhodes said. Thus, it makes sense for Trump to try to distance himself from some of Project 2025s potentially more radioactive tenets. But he also has espoused trimming the ranks of the federal civil service and gutting the Education Department. I disagree with some of the things theyre saying and some of the things theyre saying are absolutely ridiculous and abysmal, Trump said last month, even though the project is peopled with some of his former top aides. Anything they do, I wish them luck, but I have nothing to do with them. Democrats, for their part, are unwilling to let Trump or Republicans off that easily. Make no mistake: Project 2025 is Donald Trumps blueprint to enact widespread harm, impacting everyone who calls America home, U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-7th District, said in an email last month, repeating a familiar Democratic line of attack. The plan was written by Trump allies for a future Trump presidency, and the resignation of its director doesnt change the fact that it is Trumps agenda, Pressley continued. And right now, at least, voters agree. And they dont like what theyre hearing. A new national University of Massachusetts Amherst Poll has found that Vice President Kamala Harris has opened up a three-point lead over former President Donald Trump since becoming the de facto Democratic nominee following President Joe Bidens decision to step away from his re-election bid. Harris 46-43 lead over Trump in the new poll, conducted July 29-Aug. 1, represents a seven-point swing from a January UMass Poll that found Trump with a 43-39 lead over Biden. SPRINGFIELD Paula Andrea Echeverri Durango comes from a family of educators. After immigrating to the United States from Colombia more than two decades ago, she needed a place to send her son for child care while she worked during the day but she faced challenges. This weekend, the Springfield Armory is hosting a free presentation that will transport attendees to the 17th century. Gabriel Norwood, the museum director at Plimoth Patuxet Museums, will be giving his presentation, In Conflict and Alliance, on August 10 at 1 p.m. in the Springfield Armory National Historic Site museum classroom. Norwood will be discussing New Englands cultural landscape during the 1620s and how the traditions and customs the settlers brought over from Europe affected their lives in a new continent. His presentation will delve into the relationship between the English and the Wampanoag, demonstrate 17th-century militia battle tactics and highlight the major events of the early Colonial era. SPRINGFIELD John Sullivan wants to set the record straight: He is not trying to save every dive bar in the area. Its just the ones where he hangs out. The funds will be used to finance projects in the renewable energy sector aimed at mitigating climate change; The initiatives will be targeting the eight West African countries that hold equity in BOAD ): Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote dIvoire, Niger, Senegal, Togo, Mali, and Guinea-Bissau. A 100 million operation to finance projects addressing climate change mitigation in West Africa through the subscription of the first hybrid bond issued by a multilateral bank with this exclusive purpose. This is outlined in the agreement signed by the Italian Climate Fund, managed by Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP) on behalf of the Ministry of Environment and Energy Security (MASE), and the West African Development Bank (BOAD), a multilateral development bank of the West African Economic and Monetary Union countries (WAEMU). Specifically the agreement, which was signed today at the headquarters of Cassa Depositi e Prestiti in the presence of Edmondo Cirielli, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation; Serge Ekue, President of BOAD; and Dario Scannapieco, CEO of CDP, involves the subscription by the Climate Fund of a hybrid bond amounting to 100 million, issued by BOAD. The funds will be used to build and rehabilitate infrastructure for the production of electricity from renewable sources, in order to diversify the energy mix, avoid CO2 emissions and reduce energy production costs, thus contributing to the achievement of several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), in the WAEMU Member Countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal, e Togo. This Sustainable Hybrid Private Placement, issued in line with our Sustainability Framework, will help BOAD to strengthen its capital structure and therefore reinforce its rating profile while serving its Member Countries electricity generation needs. This second hybrid bond transaction closed by BOAD in accordance with its Djoliba Strategic Plan shows our commitment to further advance economic growth and sustainable development through impact-focused and innovative financing solutions declared M. Serge EKUE, President and chairman of BOAD. The Sustainable Hybrid Private Placement will enable BOAD to strengthen its capital structure, enhancing its ability to mobilize new climate finance in the region. The bond issue subscribed by the Italian Climate Fund is one of the first in the world of this kind issued by a multilateral bank, including the hybrid bond issued by the African Development Bank in January 2024. Finally, the initiative is in line with the recommendations formulated from the G20 during Italian presidency aimed at strengthening the investment capacity of multilateral development banks. The Italian Climate Fund, with an allocation of 4.2 billion euros, is aimed at financing public and private projects in emerging and developing countries that contribute to the achievement of climate and environmental goals, in line with Italys international climate commitment. The Italian governments commitment to selecting and supporting qualified entities to ensure concrete and productive investments in Africa continues, in perfect alignment with the objectives and guidelines of the Mattei Plan stated Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, Italian Minister of Environment and Energy Security. Countries will benefit from the first euro-denominated hybrid bond that the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security has been able to create, thanks to the technical and financial expertise of Cassa Depositi e Prestiti. The installation of green energy plants will support sustainable economic growth in Africa, and at the same time, the proposed financial solution is highly innovative: a distinctly Italian approach that highlights our new way of engaging in cooperation with African countries. Steps like the signing of this agreement allow us to realize the vision of the Mattei Plan, particularly confirming the strategic role of the Climate Fund, stated Edmondo Cirielli, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, who spoke at the signing ceremony. We aim to promote economic growth and environmental sustainability in West Africa and across the continent, always in a spirit of equal partnership. Actors like CDP and BOAD are crucial in this context. This operation marks a significant milestone for the Italian Climate Fund, the climate finance instrument of the Italian government, managed by CDP on behalf of the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security. The first euro-denominated hybrid bond issued by an African multilateral development institution, which will have tangible benefits for the capitalization of BOAD and, consequently, the African banking system, will allocate additional resources to support projects in the renewable energy sectors across eight West African countries. This is another initiative, which adds to the initiatives already undertaken as part of the Mattei Plan, aimed at promoting the continents efforts towards climate change mitigation, in line with the United Nations Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, has declared Dario Scannapieco, CEO of Cassa Depositi e Prestiti. Mauritius joined the global community in commemorating two significant milestones on August 4, 2024. The event, held at Hua Lien Club Mauritius, celebrated both the 57th Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the 79th Anniversary of Indonesia. ASEAN Day, observed annually on August 8th, marks the establishment of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in 1967. This regional intergovernmental organisation promotes cooperation and integration among its ten member states. The day serves as a platform to highlight ASEANs achievements and its commitment to regional solidarity. The gathering in Mauritius brought together the ASEAN community in Mauritius along with dignitaries, including Dr. Salman Al-Farisi, Secretary General of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA); H.E. Ms. Noralyn Baja, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to Mauritius; Mr. Lanang Seputro, Permanent Charge dAffaires of the Republic of Indonesia to Mauritius; Mr. Paisit Boonparlit, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Kingdom of Thailand to Mauritius; and Mr. Saleem Beebeejaun, Honorary Consul of Malaysia to Mauritius. The event served as a platform to highlight ASEANs role in fostering regional cooperation, economic growth, and cultural exchange. Indonesias contributions to the region were also acknowledged, emphasising the countrys leadership and influence. Johann Dy, founder of the ASEAN Community in Mauritius, expressed his enthusiasm for the occasion: Todays celebration is a testament to the growing ASEAN community in Mauritius. Weve successfully brought together individuals from different ASEAN member states to foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie. This is the second year of our ASEAN Day celebration, and were thrilled to witness a doubled turnout compared to the previous year. The presence of ambassadors from the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia is a significant milestone for us. It underscores the importance of ASEAN in Mauritius and our commitment to strengthening ties with the region. The event underscored Mauritius commitment to fostering closer relations with ASEAN member states and exploring opportunities for collaboration in various fields. Malaysia Airlines and Air Mauritius are pleased to announce the reinstatement of codeshare flights between the two carriers, offering travellers with enhanced travel options to explore the captivating beauty of Malaysia, Asia, Australia, Africa and beyond. Passengers will enjoy seamless travel experiences and benefit from the convenient connections offered from the airlines main hubs in KL International Airport Terminal 1 (KUL) and Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU). By placing their respective flight codes MH for Malaysia Airlines and MK for Air Mauritius on key destinations, the airlines aim to enhance connectivity and convenience for travellers to experience the diverse cultures and cities awaiting to be explored. Malaysia Airlines customers will enjoy access to a broader network beyond the airlines current offerings including direct flights from KUL to MRU, where they can soak in the tropical paradise of Mauritius for their next beach holiday, or explore the captivating landscapes of Johannesburg, South Africa (JNB) operated by Air Mauritius. Meanwhile, Air Mauritius will codeshare on Malaysia Airlines domestic flights to destinations including Langkawi, Penang, Kota Bharu, Kuantan, and Johor Bharu, as well as the opportunity to connect to various international destinations from its KUL hub. Whether delving into the cultural gems of Bangkok, Shanghai, Beijing and Hong Kong, venturing to vibrant cities in Singapore, Hanoi, Tokyo and Ho Chi Minh City, or experiencing the allure of Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, and Seoul, passengers will enjoy ample opportunities for exploration and discovery. Ahmad Luqman Mohd Azmi, Chief Executive Officer of Airlines from Malaysia Aviation Group, said, We are delighted to resume our codeshare with Air Mauritius as we expand our reach and enhance connectivity for travellers. This strategic move further solidifies Malaysia Airlines position as the gateway to Asia and beyond, providing seamless access for our customers to explore a wide array of destinations beyond our metal. We look forward to extending our Malaysian Hospitality to a wider customer base, ensuring they feel welcomed as a guest to our home. Charles Cartier, Chief Executive Officer of Air Mauritius stated, A group of Mayo teenagers have attended Foroiges Youth Leadership Conference in Maynooth University. 250 teenagers from around the world gathered at Maynooth University to attend the week-long conference. Amongs the conferences guest speakers was Mayos youngest representative, Councillor Mark Duffy. Cllr Duffy is an independent county councillor and former Mayor of Ballina. The councillor welcomed President Biden during his homecoming visit to the town in front of a 27,000 strong crowd in 2023. The conference, which was launched last week, brought together young people to learn the skills and confidence to become leaders in their own lives and communities. The teens learned crucial life skills during the week of the conference such as empathy, decision-making, problem-solving, communication skills, critical thinking and teamwork. Sean Campbell, CEO of Foroige, called the conference a circuit-breaker programme which can be life-changing for young people. He continued: This conference gives them the chance to not just learn from expert speakers and facilitators, but also to develop themselves and grow with each other in a fun and relaxed environment. Year-on-year, Im amazed by what young people can achieve when given the chance and the support. Every young person deserves to be able to access programmes like this. Aadila Iyemat spoke at the Gala dinner about her journey throughout the week. What started as one of the worst experiences of my life has turned into one of the most meaningful. I found strength I didnt know I had and made a handful of friends who made this journey worthwhile. I went from feeling like an outsider to feeling like I belonged. This week taught me that even in the darkest times, there is always hope, and there is always a way forward, explained Ms Iyemat. Other inspirational guest speakers at the conference included renowned disability activist, Joanne ORiordan, RTEs diversity and inclusion lead, Zbyszek Zalinsk, and ornithologist, wildlife sound recordist, and environmental activist, Sean Ronayne. For more information on the conference, see the Foroige website. Gardai are appealing for witnesses following a road traffic collision in Ballina that left a male pedestrian needing hospital treatment. On Friday, June 2, on Station Road, at approximately 11 pm, Gardai and emergency services were alerted to a road traffic incident involving a pedestrian and a car. The pedestrian, a male aged in his 40s, was taken to Mayo University Hospital where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. No other injuries have been reported. Investigations are ongoing. Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to contact them. Any road users or pedestrians who were on Station Road or its environs between 10.45pm and 11.20pm and have camera footage (including dash-cam) are asked to make this available to investigating Gardai. Mayo band Billow Wood is set to perform at Electric Picnic. The band put on a fantastic performance at last years festival in Stradbally, county Laois, and this year, they are set to do the same on two stages over the weekend. The Ballina act Billow Wood will return to Irelands biggest music and arts festival on both the Hazelwood Stage and The Word Stage. Made up of founding members Mark ODonnell and Harry Lawlor, alongside Andy Dempsey, Emily Donoghue, and Aodan Cronin, the five-piece band seamlessly blends multiple genres of music such as folk, traditional and mainstream music, with lavish vocal harmonies and instrumentation. The bands former member, Brid ODonnell, will also perform with the band for their Electric Picnic appearances. The highly successful band played two rare home gigs last month, including a performance in St Michaels Church, Ballina, and an open-air appearance on the main stage for Ballina Heritage Day. Billow Woods music was featured earlier this year at Folk Alliance International in the US. A major showcase event in the folk genre attended by some of the industry's top names. Electric picnic doesnt make the group's last show on home turf as on August 25, they will play the Clare Island Folk Festival before jetting off to Switzerland for another gig. The Hazelwood stage (An Chollchoill) is the festival's Irish language stage. Partnered with Conradh na Gaeilge, the programme, Croi na Feile, brings the Irish language to centre stage. Set in a secluded woodland haven amongst a circle of traditional horse-drawn caravans, the stage is centred around a crackling campfire and adorned with a beautiful array of visual art. With a mix of traditional music agus cultur Gaelach, acts take to the stage every night from 7pm to after midnight. For more information on Billow Wood, see their Facebook page, and for more information on The Hazelwood stage at Electric Picnic, see their website. by Ray Schultz , August 5, 2024 The ruling against Google by a federal judge, declaring the firm to be a monopolist, was applauded Monday by the News/Media Alliance. We are incredibly pleased with the outcome today and applaud the Department of Justice for holding this dominant monopoly accountable for anticompetitive behavior in the digital advertising market, which has harmed countless businesses, including publishers of quality journalism, said Danielle Coffey, president and CEO of the News/Media Alliance. Coffey continued: For years, Google has exerted its dominance, profiting off of the hard work and tremendous investments of publishers, while journalism struggles to survive all during a time when people need reliable news and information more than ever. This landmark decision finally recognizes that this is unacceptable and unlawful, that Google must be held accountable, and competition must be restored to the marketplace. by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, August 6, 2024 Executives across the advertising and search industries on Tuesday are trying to sort through a federal verdict handed down Monday that will determine how their industry will change, and what next steps Google -- along with publishers and platform partners -- will take. A federal judge on Monday ruled that Google violated an antitrust law by serving as the default search engine on browsers operated by Apple and Mozilla, as well as on Android devices. The Alphabet company, founded in 1998, became the backbone to the industry supporting search and search text ads. While distribution deals have been under the microscope most recently, the next antitrust trial between the Department of Justice and Google will begin in Virginia on September 9. The case will focus on whether Google has illegally monopolized digital advertising technology. advertisement advertisement Advertisers are likely to experience disruptions due to the antitrust decision, and should expect antitrust issues in the digital media industry to surge, according to Andrew Frank, distinguished VP analyst at Gartner Marketing Practice. We've already seen signs of competition heating up the search business. This will embolden challengers to Google's dominance in that area, Frank said. Organizations may experience even more disruption in digital advertising performance as the flow of data about user interests and behaviors becomes more fragmented and scrutinized. Udayan Bose, NetElixir founder and CEO, believes this is the beginning of change, adding that Googles Apple distribution deal is worth about $36 billion annually and that Microsoft will benefit from the ruling. Bose pointed to the 1999 antitrust ruling against Microsoft. The findings sided almost entirely with the U.S. government, ruling that Microsoft had violated multiple sections of the Sherman Antitrust Act. It caused Microsoft's valuation to drop from $600 billion pre-court ruling to $270 billion post court-ruling at the end of 1999, beginning of 2000, Bose said. It also caused Bill Gates to step back as CEO and appoint Steve Balmer, who formally became CEO in 2000. Bose also pointed to the impact this could have on employees. If the September 9 trial does not go in Googles favor, a lot of similarities could be drawn between Microsofts and Googles trial, Bose said. Microsoft could emerge this time as the winner, Bose said, and distribution agreements will likely receive more international scrutiny, requiring Google to invest more to protect its position. It will likely take about six months to understand the outcome, but I do not think Google will exist in the same form, Bose said. Google will never be the same again. Madi Bachar, vice president of global sales at MGID, agreed that it will take time to understand the impact. Search advertising is the most effective way of advertising at scale compared to any other format," Bachar said, adding that today Googles dominance gives publishers one focus for SEO. "If this changes, so too will publishers' SEO tactics and strategies for becoming more visible to users." Publishers will need to adapt as new opportunities surface, but those that have survived in the market are no strangers to change, Bachar said. Lance Wolder, head of strategy and marketing at PadSquad, thinks it presents an opportunity for privacy-first engines like DuckDuckGo and Brave to gain traction, potentially becoming the default options on devices or platforms,. It raises intriguing questions about the balance between personalized experiences and data privacy," Wolder said. He said that as AI-powered search technologies emerge, such as SearchGPT, this ruling could lead to new solutions that pair speed, ease of use, and privacy protections that ultimately put Google on its heels. While the court's ruling will likely increase consumer options, old habits die hard, making it difficult to envision a future where users do not default to Google, regardless of whether it remains the default search engine on their devices, said Rachel Bucey Klein, vice president of earned and owned media at Wpromote. The most compelling remedy would be for the courts to mandate Google share proprietary data with its competitors, allowing rivals to enhance their algorithms and compete on a more equal playing field, Klein added. by Ray Schultz , August 6, 2024 B2B publisher Ziff Davis is acquiring tech site CNET from owner Red Ventures for a reported price of $100 million. Ziff Davis confirmed the news to The New York Times, and the Times story on the merger was promptly posted on the Ziff Davis website. The deal could presage other high-value acquisitions to come. Ziff Davis has $800 million in cash on hand and is pursuing a strategy of purchasing other digital-media firms, CEO Vivek Shah told the Times. Red Ventures acquired CNET from CBS for $500 million in 2020. In 2008, it was purchased by CBS for $1.8 billion. CNET drew 38 million visitors in June, the Times reports, sourcing SimilarWeb. In 2023, it was discovered that CNET had published articles created with the help of generativeAI. This led to a refining of the brands publishing guidelines, and workers unionized around the issue, according to theTimes. advertisement advertisement Shah feels CNET will help Ziff Davis with advertisers seeking to reach tech consumers. Technology and telecom products and services whether for an individual, their home or business continue to be complicated, he told the Times.Theres lots of choice that requires advice. So I think theres just real editorial need for it. Royal Philips Advertisement Advertisement link Trusted Source Temporal trends in medication and service use patterns for mental health issues among men with prostate cancer Go to source Trusted Source Did You Know? Almost 15% of prostate cancer patients began anti-anxiety and anti-depression medications at the time of their diagnosis. #prostatecancer #mentalhealth Almost 15% of prostate cancer patients began anti-anxiety and anti-depression medications at the time of their diagnosis. #prostatecancer #mentalhealth Why is Mental Health Screening Necessary for Prostate Cancer Patients? Depression and Anxiety More Common in Men with Prostate Cancer Advertisement Advertisement Temporal trends in medication and service use patterns for mental health issues among men with prostate cancer - (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pon.6369) Men often need extra mental health support both during and immediately after prostate cancer diagnosis. Hence, a team of researchers from the University of South Australia suggests that mental health screenings should be a regular part of prostate cancer care.Funded by Movember, the UniSA study tracked the scale and timing of mental health issues among 13,693 South Australian men with prostate cancer, finding that 15% of prostate cancer patients began mental health medications directly after a prostate cancer diagnosis, with 6% seeking help from mental health services ().It's an important finding, not only highlighting the percentage of prostate cancer patients who seek mental health supports, but notably, those who do not.Every year, more than 24,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer, with up to 40% of patients considered at risk of mental distress.Lead researcher UniSAs Dr. Tenaw Tiruye says the study highlights an acute need to offer mental health services and support for all men diagnosed with prostate cancer.. But despite high survival rates, psychological issues are one of the most frequently reported unmet needs among prostate cancer survivors, Dr. Tiruye says.Prostate cancer can take a serious toll on the mental health of men throughout all stages of the illness including diagnosis, surveillance, treatment, and followup with an estimated one in six people experiencing clinical depression."In fact, the rates of depression and anxiety among prostate cancer patients are significantly higher than those in the general population, as is the risk of suicide."In our study we found that. This shows that men are more likely to commence psychotropic medications than seek out mental health services."But it also shows a significant gap, which is those men who have not sought help.Senior researcher, UniSA's Dr. Kerri Beckmann says fewer than a quarter of men ask for help when it comes to their mental health.Whether its the stigma surrounding mental health, or a fear about being seen as weak, statistics shows that many men struggle to seek help for mental health concerns, Dr. Beckmann says.So, rather than waiting for men to proactively seek out mental health supports once theyve been diagnosed with prostate cancer, we should be offering supports at the time of diagnosis and throughout treatment. That way it can be seen as a normal and required part of treatment."Only by normalizing mental health discussions, can we improve access to wellbeing tools and services, to ensure that men with prostate cancer have every opportunity to voice their struggles and receive the support they need.Source-Eurekalert World Breastfeeding Week Trusted Source World Breastfeeding Week 2024 Go to source Trusted Source Shocking! 57% of newborns in India face delayed #breastfeeding. Infants from low-income, rural areas, and those born via C-section are at higher risk. #worldbreastfeedingweek #breastfedbabies #India #newborn Advertisement Advertisement World Breastfeeding Week 2024 - (https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-breastfeeding-week/2024) Health experts emphasized that employers must enhance support for breastfeeding mothers returning to work, as part of World Breastfeeding Week World Breastfeeding Week () is held in the first week of August every year, supported by WHO and UNICEF. The theme for 2024 is Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby's life. Breastfeeding plays a significant role in promoting a child's health due to its many benefits for both the baby and the mother. Breast milk provides the perfect balance of nutrients essential for the growth and development of the baby. It is easier to digest and offers emotional security. Babies who are breastfed tend to have higher IQs and better cognitive development later in life. However, several working women find it difficult to balance their work responsibilities and breastfeeding needs.Breastfeeding mothers who return to work need support from their employers, which is why lactation breaks, on-site nursing facilities, and flexible work schedules are crucial. This support encourages employee satisfaction and retention in addition to helping to maintain the health of the mother and the child, Dr Esha Gupta, Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Intensivist, Motherhood Hospitals, Bengaluru, told IANS.Once the mother joins her work, she should be supported to get proper breaks where she can breastfeed or express and store her milk to carry home. Proper nutrition and care of a mother and her baby during the first 1,000 days of life can give the best start in life for a child. So this breastfeeding week, let us pledge to close these gaps in the true sense and support every mother to achieve her breastfeeding goals, added Dr Rebecca Gosavi, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant at Manipal Hospital, Pune.Breastfeeding is advantageous not only for the mother and baby but also for the overall development of society and the nation.Thus, it is essential for working mothers to maintain breastfeeding motivation, said Dr Gupta, recommending working mothers to establish a pumping routine before returning to work.Strong family support is also indispensable during this phase. For working women, many communities and organisations provide lactation support groups and tools, facilitating networking and experience sharing. These support systems can be invaluable, offering advice, encouragement, and practical solutions for breastfeeding challenges faced by working women, Dr Gupta said.Dr Gosavi told IANS that the new mother is often caught in a web of misunderstanding and incorrect practices. She called for healthcare officials to have trained lactation staff who are updated with the latest lactation skills to help clear myths associated with breastfeeding.Hospitals must practise breastfeeding-friendly practices and have knowledge about the latest recommendations for successful breastfeeding, she added.Mothers who breastfeed have several health advantages, including a lower chance of type 2 diabetes and postpartum depression . Breastfeeding helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and encourages weight loss by burning additional calories, which helps with physical recovery after giving birth. Several working women find it difficult to balance their work responsibilities and breastfeeding needs.Breastfeeding also prevents gastrointestinal infections and boosts the babys immunity due to its protective antibodies. For mothers, breastfeeding helps shed the weight gained during pregnancy and offers protection against breast and ovarian cancer , heart attacks, and osteoporosis later in life, Dr Tripti Raheja, Lead Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, told IANS.Early initiation of breastfeeding, within one hour of birth, also protects the newborn from infections and reduces neonatal mortality.Source-IANS Heathrow-based ASC Cargo Handling has renewed its materials handling fleet, taking delivery of 12 HD Hyundai Xitesolution forklift trucks, from long-standing national dealer Acclaim Handling. The fork trucks are split equally between two ground handling facilities at London Heathrow Airport. Each site has five 2.5-tonne capacity 25L-9A gas-powered forklifts, with one taking a 16-tonne 160D-9V truck and the other a longer wheelbase 160D-9LV truck. The machines have been supplied in ASCs striking red livery, as part of a five-year hire contract that includes servicing and maintenance. Acclaim Handlings engineers carry out under-bonnet and fluid level checks as part of a weekly inspection of each of the forklifts, providing a one-stop-shop service for ASC. I knew of the high level of service Acclaim provides before this went out to tender and together with the respected Hyundai forklift trucks, they offered us the perfect package for our requirements, said Paul Fallon, Cargo General Manager at ASC. We have our own internal checks every 12 hours, to make sure that the machines are serviceable for the next shift. Having Acclaim check the machines weekly works for us and leaves us to focus on moving cargo for our customers. Acclaim now provides all of our forklifts on cargo handling. ASC has a diverse range of cargo airline customers from across the world. The companys fully auditable computer system meets IATA standards and the business is linked to the UK Border Agency, providing a facility to accept both air and vehicle movements for import and export customers. It provides a cargo warehousing facility, capable of handling ULD pallet systems and a range of special cargo products. Heavy lifting equipment is required, as ASC regularly moves passenger cars and aircraft engines, which require the 16-tonne capacity forklifts. There are several cargo handler companies at Heathrow and although we are one of the newest handlers, we are going from strength to strength, day by day. We can offer our customers a high-quality service with a personal touch. We can only achieve this if we insist on the same high-quality service from all our suppliers, said Mr Fallon. First, its a question of have you got the equipment? Then, is it the right equipment for us? But equally it is about aftersales, looking after the equipment and how you react to breakdowns. Our business is 24/7, its a conveyor belt and with the current shipping problems around world, the air cargo business is even busier. For our customers, we are the first and last point of contact on the ground. Acclaim Handling is a proven trusted supplier of forklifts and materials handling equipment, with clients across the UK. Headquartered in Purfleet, Essex, the company has eight regional depots providing HD Hyundai Xitesolution sales and after care service. The business also provides a driver training facility from its accredited Driver Training Centres. Acclaim has developed its own operating software, that allows customers like ASC Cargo Handling to monitor 24/7 the service and maintenance records of equipment and to log maintenance work for engineers. The system also provides valuable cost analysis and other KPIs throughout the contract hire period. HD Hyundais 9A range of 2.5-3.5 tonne LPG-powered forklifts feature high-performance, fuel-efficient Stage V engines. High output at low engine speeds makes them suitable for loading and unloading on ramps, where fast lift speeds or repetitive use is required. The 25L-9A forklifts benefit from wet disc brakes in the drive axles and all drive functions are controlled and monitored by a central Machine Control Unit. The Heavy Line 160D-9V and 160D-9LV 16-tonne models feature HD Hyundais next generation cab, that is up to 5.9dB quieter and more comfortable, for stress-free operation throughout the working shift. With improved visibility and fingertip controls, the machines are powered by Stage V compliant Cummins diesel engines, driving through proven ZF transmissions. Swindon transport firm, Les Smith Haulage, is marking its 50th year in business by investing 4 million to meet increased service demand. As one of the largest, local independent haulage companies, it was founded by Les Smith and today is run by sons Tony, Danny and Nick. Based across three sites in Swindon, including its new head office in South Marston, the company has invested in ten fleet renewals and upgrades. This includes four fully-branded rigid trucks and six Mercedes units to upgrade the existing fleet. Increasing the number of its vehicles to 52 allows Les Smith to handle an uptick in business, growing volumes and expanded postcode areas. Services offered include UK-wide next day delivery, general haulage, Moffett truck delivery and pallet network services. The investment coincides with the companys 50th business anniversary, four of which have been as a member of Palletways UK, Europe's largest express palletised freight network. The company operates across Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire, including deliveries in and around the conurbations of Swindon and Hungerford. Approximately 1400 pallets every week are collected and delivered for Palletways, ranging from single pallets to large scale consignments. Nick Smith, Director of Les Smith Haulage, said This is a monumental year for us and, despite what continues to be challenging times within the logistics industry, we grow and expand as a business. Our 72-strong team are fundamental to our success, every single person is vital to our longevity. Les Smith came to Swindon from London in 1965 and started working as a coalman for the Gorse Hill firm of Stallards. When they closed the haulage side of their business an opportunity was created for Les to start up on his own with one of their redundant trucks. Less reputation for straight dealing and meeting his promises soon paid off and the business steadily grew with an increasing number of local firms depending on Les Smith Haulage for the reliable delivery of their goods. Today Les Smith delivers to all corners of the UK mainland for many of Swindons most prominent firms. The new vehicles have a Euro 6 engine specification which meets the latest emission requirements. The tractor units are the most recent models on the market with improved aerodynamics, internal cab space and safety and energy efficiency features. Rob Gittins, Managing Director of Palletways UK adds: Les Smith is a great asset to the network and their success over the past 50 years is to be celebrated. We work closely with their management team to grow our presence in these counties, and this has paid off with Les Smith recently taking on additional postcode areas and responsibilities with us. Les Smith Haulage is one of over 120 independent transport providers that are part of the Palletways UK network. They benefit from shared expertise and resources from within the group to deliver consignments of palletised freight to market faster and more cost-effectively than ever before. The Palletways Group, renowned for its industry-leading IT developments and operational systems, comprises 450+ depots and 20 hub operations, through which it provides collection and distribution services across 24 European countries, including the UK. The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy has not been organized or prompt in addressing necessary fixes to deteriorating conditions ranging from seawalls to stop flooding to water damage and mildew on the campus, a new government watchdog report revealed. The Government Accountability Office report, released Tuesday, took aim at the progress the service academy in Kings Point, New York which trains young officers to become mariners for the shipping and trade industry and the military has made in fixing and upgrading infrastructure. Earlier reports had pointed to the issues on campus, but the poor conditions were still present on recent visits by the watchdog agency. "These facilities exhibit crumbling facades, leaking pipes and water damage. We observed many of these problems and others during our October 2023 site visit to the campus," the report detailed, adding GAO personnel saw "examples of decayed and water damaged facilities" in several parts of the service academy. One photo in the report identified mildew on an outdoor pool bathroom facility. Read Next: Tim Walz, Who Spent Decades as an Enlisted Soldier, Brings Years of Work on Vets Issues to Dem Ticket Andrew Von Ah, the director of the GAO's Physical Infrastructure team, told Military.com in an interview Tuesday that it was troubling to see the same problems in newly renovated buildings on campus. "You saw a lot of water intrusion," Von Ah said. "And this is related to the stormwater issues, the overall drainage issues on the campus, but also related to just the difficulty in ongoing maintenance and preventive maintenance that they faced over the last many, many years." Photo of maintenance issues at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (Courtesy of GAO) Matt Barranca, the assistant director of the GAO's Physical Infrastructure Team, added in the interview with Military.com that Merchant Marine Academy officials admitted that the ongoing maintenance struggles to fix infrastructure on campus could harm efforts to recruit new midshipmen to the campus, causing some to go elsewhere. "We were told, though, by academy officials that this is something that affects their ability to compete against similar institutions, because there's so much choice out there," Barranca said. "While the academy is very attractive to students. ... These are students that are also very competitive and have a range of opportunities out there." Maintenance issues and structural problems at the service academy are a longstanding issue. In 2021, the National Academy of Public Administration published a wide-ranging report addressing problems at the academy, including critiques and photos of "crumbling concrete, drywall and paint, leaking pipes and water damage, mold present in rooms and hallways." Since then, the academy has taken on numerous projects, including upgrading academic buildings to fiber optic networks. But larger, ongoing projects, such as improvements to a stormwater management system and repairing a seawall, show officials do "not have policies establishing how it estimates costs for capital improvements," something that could cause delays and inadequate funds to address the longstanding problems. Projects to renovate Samuels Hall, a simulator facility used to train midshipmen on shiphandling, as well as the campus' main data center and laboratories in the Fulton-Gibbs Complex, are set to be finished in 2025 and 2026, but Von Ah warned that upkeep of those newly completed facilities will be crucial. "The biggest issue is maintenance, ongoing preventative maintenance at the academy, so that when they do complete this project, Samuels Hall and Fulton-Gibbs, that they're able to maintain it at a level of good repair into the future for the next 20, 30, 40 years," Von Ah added. "That has proven to be sort of an Achilles' heel, and you see it kind of all over the campus." GAO officials pointed to problems with staffing of maintenance teams to oversee and do recurring upkeep on the academy's facilities, as well as with top officials who oversee that work, calling for "continuous leadership in the academy's Office of Facilities and Infrastructure." And they recommended "strategic workforce planning to determine the needed resources, capabilities, and any skill gaps" for addressing issues on campus. The GAO also called for the Merchant Marine Academy to establish better policies for estimating costs on future projects to more accurately determine widespread improvements that will be needed in the future. T.V. Johnson, a spokesperson for the Maritime Administration -- the Department of Transportation agency that oversees the Merchant Marine Academy -- told Military.com on Wednesday after publication that the agency "concurs with the GAO recommendations." Conditions seen at the service academy mirror issues that Military.com has reported at Department of Defense locations for all the service branches, including mold being found in Marine Corps barracks and an Air Force dining facility closing due to pests. Another scathing GAO report last year identified a whole host of quality-of-life issues at military facilities across the country. Editor's Note: This story has been updated with comment from the Maritime Administration provided to Military.com after publication. Related: Bedbugs, Brown Water, Squatters: Military Barracks Blasted over Horrid Living Conditions, Lack of Accountability Two people were arrested in connection to a makeshift living space set up in an old Marine Corps hangar, local police announced Sunday. Joshua Micheal Rosario, 29, and Patricia Lynn Ratliff, 53, were arrested for outstanding warrants after police discovered them in a hideout at the now-shuttered Marine Corps Air Station El Toro hangar near Irvine, California. Rosario was booked on numerous charges, including burglary and drug possession, according to the Irvine Police Department in a social media post over the weekend. Rosario remained in the Orange County Sheriff's Department custody as of Tuesday morning, according to inmate records. Ratliff was also arrested for outstanding warrants and trespassing, but does not appear to be in custody, according to a records search. Read Next: A Rocket Attack at an Iraqi Military Base Injures US Personnel, Officials Say "Officers found two people who had set up a makeshift living space," the police announced. "The area had a couch, TV, and what appeared to be a recording studio, complete with disco lights and a fog machine." The setup was powered by car batteries. Police also found 11 bicycles, several spools of copper wire, fireworks, personal property from Irvine residents, two airsoft guns and drug paraphernalia, the social media post said. MCAS El Toro was closed in July 1999 under the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990, according to the Naval Facilities Engineering Command, or NAVFAC. The command did not respond to questions from Military.com on Tuesday on whether it still has any jurisdiction over MCAS El Toro. The act, which has seen several iterations over the years, was authorized by the government to dispose of and reduce unneeded defense facilities, typically in the United States. In El Toro's case, that meant the roughly 4,700 acres of military land was divided up between state and federal agencies, including the Orange County Great Park in California. But the abandoned military facilities have long been home to squatters, forcing law enforcement in cities and towns across the country to respond to alleged incidents of trespassing. Squatters laid claim to an old Navy base in New Orleans in 2022, resulting in a response from local SWAT, firefighter, EMS and homeless service to secure the site, for example. BRAC sites have long been a contentious topic in Congress, Katherine Kuzminski, a deputy director at the Center for a New American Security, told Military.com in a phone interview Tuesday. She said that lawmakers have bristled at shuttering job-producing military installations in their districts, leading to a push in recent years to look at closing overseas bases to save government costs instead. As a result, sometimes these BRAC sites become somewhat of a no-man's-land. "When we look at the footprint of historically where bases were assigned, they were in areas that were more affordable for the federal government to purchase," Kuzminski said. "This tends to be physical land that was somewhere that's not in a population center which is why the federal government could afford to purchase it, whether it was in the 1940s or earlier than that, or in more recent years. "Because they're more remote and they're not tied to population centers, it's harder to manage," she added. Squatting is not an issue limited to abandoned BRAC facilities. Last year, Military.com reported that a Government Accountability Office study found squatting was a problem for in-use military housing and unused barracks. Irvine police said that they had cited or arrested Rosario and Ratliff "multiple times" for trespassing at El Toro. Related: Squatters Take Over Soldier's Home The Rangers have signed Chase Anderson to a minor league contract, reports Jon Heyman of the New York Post. He was released by the Red Sox earlier this month. Anderson, 36, signed a minor league deal with the Pirates during the 2023-24 offseason. He was released shortly before Opening Day, and not long after, he signed a major league deal with the Red Sox worth $1.25MM guaranteed. Primarily a starter throughout his career, the veteran right-hander joined Bostons bullpen as a multi-inning arm. Over 27 games, he tossed 52 innings, pitching to a 4.85 ERA and 4.92 SIERA. Despite his move to a full-time bullpen role, his velocity was not meaningfully higher on any of his pitches, and his 15.6% strikeout rate was the lowest of his career. Ultimately, Anderson was a serviceable mop-up arm but not much more for the Red Sox. As they bolstered their bullpen at the trade deadline, they no longer had room for him on the roster. Over 11 MLB seasons, Anderson has suited up for eight different clubs: the Diamondbacks, Brewers, Blue Jays, Phillies, Reds, Rays, Rockies, and Red Sox. He has also spent time with the Rangers, Tigers, and Pirates organizations, although he did not pitch for their big league clubs. If his second stint with Texas is more successful than the first, the Rangers will become the ninth team he has played for in his big league career. As for the Rangers, theres no such thing as too much pitching, and this team could surely use some veteran bullpen depth. Aside from those on the active roster, Texas does not have many healthy relievers in the organization with significant big league experience and any amount of recent big league success. If the Rangers select Andersons contract, they will only owe him a prorated portion of the minimum salary for however long he remains on the roster. The Red Sox are still responsible for the rest of his guaranteed 2024 salary. Dear Lizzy, My old high school friend has a true crime podcast that hes constantly asking me to checkout. He has for years. Though I think what he does is cool, Im just not a podcast guy and I usually listen to music during my commute. We spoke the other night on the phone after a few drinks (he lives in Northern California) and he asked me what I thought. Well, so as not to hurt his feelings, I lied and raved about it. I said I loved it. He asked me to review it on Spotify, so I said I would. He bugged me for a week after that because he said his rating had dropped. I never reviewed it. Spotify wouldnt let me because I never had actually listened to it. Finally, in exasperation, I fessed up and apologized. Hes totally butthurt now and giving me the silent treatment. How can I fix this? Humbled in Hazelwood Dear Humbled in Hazelwood, I know it sounds like a nightmare, the worst possible solution, a nearly impossible ask, but theres only one way to fix this: You have to listen to the podcast. Even just a few minutes of it., Look, generally, I am of the opinion that you do not have to engage with your friends art or art, but you lied (even in quotes that is a lie, my friend) and then were caught in your lie because you couldnt even bring yourself to push play on the podcast on Spotify and leave the room! Heres what you do: Turn the podcast on. Listen to enough of it so you can make one or two coherent comments like, Wow your intro music is so creepy, or Great production value, or Murder seems bad, right? Then, leave your buddy a glowing review. And call him and say, Look, true crime really isnt for me but I shouldnt have lied to you. I listened to your podcast and gave you a good review but just to be honest, I probably wont listen again because I dont ever listen to podcasts and true crime just isnt my jam. If he cant handle that feedback then he needs to get out of the creating-things-for-public-consumption game. I also think your friend, should he be reading, needs to lay off. Once, not long ago, I had a podcast. I wouldnt have dreamed of asking any friends, or even my husband, if they had listened to it and would leave a review. I write multiple stories a week and I dont expect my parents to even read them. If someone organically tells me they like (or hate) something I created, I appreciate it! If they dont, I honestly dont even think about it. There is no kind of art which I am defining loosely as basically anything creative you put out into the world here that appeals to everyone. But whether or not someone likes your art does not need to factor into your friendship. You can be friends with a death metal drummer even if you listen to only instrumental Taylor Swift covers. You can be friends with a podcaster, even if you find the entire medium tiresome. Good luck! Lizzy Have a burning question? Send me an email at lacker@oregonian.com or tweet @lizzzyacker! Or, if you want to ask me a question with total anonymity, use this Google form. Read more Why Tho? here. MOUNT MORRIS, MI -- Last week, Michigan marijuana licensors accused a Genesee County business of putting out-of-state marijuana into Michigan products, a violation of the rules. The Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) on July 31 announced an eight-count complaint issued against Sky Labs, a Mount Morris-based marijuana company that produces THC vaping cartridges, edibles and other products. At issue was nearly 286 pounds of a marijuana compound known as THCA that business representatives admitted came from Colorado, even though Sky Labs previously said it originated from three different licensed Michigan marijuana businesses. All of those businesses denied selling the product to Sky Labs, according to the CRA complaint. THCA is a precursor to Delta-9 THC, the high-inducing compound in marijuana. The cannabis plant produces THCA, but its only converted to Delta-9 THC after being heated, which is why smoking marijuana is a frequent ingestion method. THCA may be separated from the plant material and heated independently, a process known as decarboxylation. This produces potent THC crystals that are often broken down into a white powder and sold for use in edibles and other cannabis products. As to why Sky Labs would risk violating the rules by purchasing THCA from outside the state, insiders theorize its likely because its cheaper, due to a perceived loophole in hemp laws. Hemp is a genetic form of cannabis that doesnt contain the psychoactive compounds existing in marijuana. The federal government in 2018 passed the Farm Bill that allows for hemp production and sales. In that law, hemp is defined as cannabis with lower than .3% Delta-9 THC. THCA is the native form and its been exploited by a number of people using the Farm Bill as a shield ... claiming that normal cannabis is actually hemp by legal definition because it contains very little of the psychoactive compound, said David Egerton, the lab manager at Infinite Chemical Analysis marijuana safety testing lab in Jackson. He said there is no inherent health risk to consuming THCA and if Michigan rules are followed, the final product sold to consumers always undergoes safety testing. The principle complaint with (Sky Labs) is that this was sourced outside of the licensed businesses that are under the purview of Michigan regulations, Egerton said. Scientist Lev Spivak-Birndorf, who co-founded one of Michigans first marijuana labs that closed in late 2023 and sits on the CRAs scientific advisory board, said businesses are trying manipulate the letter of the law for their own benefit. People have ... said ... only delta-9 matters, Spivak-Birndorf said. Theyre saying it contains 20% THCA but only .1% (delta 9-THC), therefore, this is still hemp ... In reality, its kind of the same thing, its just ... a loophole. The CRA has addressed the THCA issue in the past, clarifying in an April statement that cannabis in any form with a concentration of THC (including THCA) greater than 0.3% is, by definition, marijuana under Michigan law. This also applies to the supply chain, meaning companies must procure THC-containing compounds from do so from marijuana businesses licensed in Michigan. DEA Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section Chief Terrence L. Boos in a June 2023 letter said THCA does not qualify as a hemp for the purposes of the purposes of enforcing the hemp definition under the Controlled Substances Act. Still, out-of-state producers and online retailers maintain they can legally sell hemp across state lines, even though interstate marijuana commerce is illegal. Various websites advertise the sale of THCA in the exact same products that are available in Michigans licensed marijuana market, including: flower, edibles, vaping cartridges and more. Due to recent moves made by the DEA, it appears that THCA is considered to be industrial hemp at the federal level, emboldening producers to bring this cannabinoid to the online market for the first time, says the the Portland, Oregon-based Secret Nature website that advertises an array of THCA products. Chemically different from delta-9 THC, the precursor compound THCA is generally considered to be industrial hemp, allowing it to be sold online. Because companies are cranking this stuff out they may have a cheaper price on it, Spivak-Birndorf said, which potentially accounts for why a Michigan marijuana company would import it for use in licensed marijuana products. Spivak-Birndorf said decarboxylating THCA into delta-9 THC is a simple process. You need to get the temperature to about 200-degrees-plus Fahrenheit and maintain that temperature for up to two hours, he said. The CRA is revealing little about its Sky Labs investigation. Disciplinary action is considered litigation because the licensee hasnt had a hearing yet and no final decision has been made, CRA spokesman David Harns said. We are unable to comment on pending litigation outside of the details put forth in the formal complaint. Sky Labs, which has been fined $120,000 since 2021 and was forced to surrender its medical marijuana processing license in 2023 for previous violations, produced an invoice showing it purchased 130,300 grams of THCA isolate from a Colorado business and had it shipped to the business managers address in Keego Harbor, according to the CRA complaint. The business then entered the product into the statewide marijuana tracking system indicating it was acquired from other licensed marijuana businesses in the state. The imported THCA remained on site for months before being entered into the statewide marijuana tracking system, known as METRC, the CRA complaint said. A Sky Labs manager stated that (Sky Labs) initially did not enter the product in METRC because (Sky Labs) did not know how to do so correctly. CRA investigators found documents indicating a California lab tested some of the THCA before it shipped to Michigan and the lab reported it to have nearly 87% THC potency. This is not the first time state officials have accused Sky Labs of rules violations. The CRA has accused Sky Labs of producing vaping products containing banned chemicals, of employing workers without required food handling certifications, multiple surveillance camera issues, possessing product that wasnt properly entered into the state tracking system and of mislabeling products. Related: Marijuana business faces fines, penalties after 4-year-old ate mislabeled gummies In one 2022 complaint, the CRA said the company gave samples of gummies mislabeled as non-psychoactive CBD to ten employees. An employee provided the edibles to her 4-year-old child, the child consumed two edibles which contained 20 mgs of marijuana, and the child became seriously ill and was hospitalized due to adverse reactions to the marijuana edibles, the CRA said. That incident resulted in a $100,000 fine and Sky Labs surrendering its medical marijuana license, although the company was allowed to continue operations under its adult-use processing license. Related: Michigan blocks sale of marijuana products worth millions without explanation Representatives from Sky Labs have declined to comment on the latest THCA accusations. We dont have a comment at this time, said attorney Denise Pollicella, who represents Sky Labs. What I can tell you is that there are no public safety administrative holds or recalls on any Sky Lab products as it relates to this matter. Sky Labs may contest the complaint at a formal hearing or participate in a compliance conference to try and resolve the allegations. The CRA has the power to fine Sky Labs, in addition to suspending or revoking its operating license. Jamie Lowell, the head of operations for Meds Cafe, a chain of Michigan marijuana stores, said hes internally discussed the Sky Labs situation with his companys purchasing manager and CEO. They believe Sky Labs employed a strategy of skirting the rules to create a significantly better profit margin. He doesnt think Sky Labs is alone in its efforts to bring unlicensed marijuana into the Michigan market, however. Ive heard about this stuff in different ways since theres been a system in place, Lowell said. He doesnt know how big the problem is, other than it doesnt seem to be going away. DETROIT - Captains hats and Hawaiian shirts are optional, but encouraged for this event taking place this week at one of Michigans most famous sandy spots. The Yacht Rock Beach Party will be at The Beach at Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit, voted the top-ranked public square in the country, on Thursday, August 8 from 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. The free event is part of the Downtown Detroit Partnerships summer Beach Party Series happening the second Thursday of each month. The Yacht Rock Beach Party will feature live music from Jimmy Buffett cover band, The Leaky Tikis, as well as a DJ playing soft rock hits from the 70s and 80s. Prizes will be given out for best beach outfits. There will also be signature-themed drinks and other giveaways courtesy of Titos Handmade Vodka. The Beach at Campus Martius has 400,000 pounds of sand and plenty of beach chairs. BrisBar offers cocktails with Happy Hour specials and a full food menu. Chicago recently announced all-new tour dates including two mid-November shows in Michigan. Some tickets are already available for presale, find yours here. Shop on the Chicago band website this Friday, August 9 starting at 10 a.m. local time, and explore other ticket options on sites like Vivid Seats, SeatGeek, StubHub, and Ticketmaster. The American iconic rock band Chicago performs at the Xfinity Center, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2018, in Mansfield, Mass. (Photo by Robert E. Klein/Invision/AP)Robert E. Klein/Invision/AP Chicago is extending their time on tour to include 16 concert dates following a co-headlining route with Earth, Wind & Fire, which wraps up in early September. Starting October 22, the band is now to visit venues in Nashville, Atlantic City, Baltimore, Toledo, Columbus, and more before concluding with two back-to-back nights in Michigan: the first of which at the Silver Creek Event Center in New Buffalo (November 16), and the second at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids (November 17). Formed in the 60s, Chicago underwent a few name changes before landing on its current moniker starting as The Big Thing before floating Chicago Transit Authority, which garnered some unsavory attention from the actual CTA. However, the band was able to use the title for their debut album in 1969, alongside which came songs like Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is? and Im a Man. Later, Chicago also became known for their hits Hard to Say Im Sorry/Get Away, Saturday in the Park, Youre the Inspiration, and If You Leave Me Now. See Chicago live at the Silver Creek Event Center in New Buffalo on Saturday, November 16 followed by DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids on Sunday, November 17. Shop tickets below: New Buffalo Vivid Seats from $90 | SeatGeek from $83 | StubHub from $86 | Ticketmaster, unlock presale Grand Rapids Vivid Seats from $88 | SeatGeek from $84 | StubHub from $84 | Ticketmaster, unlock presale Chicago 2024 tour dates: Tues, Oct 22 Brown County Music Center; Nashville, IN Thurs, Oct 24 Warner Theatre; Erie, PA Fri, Oct 25 Wind Creek Event Center; Bethlehem, PA Sat, Oct 26 Mayo Performing Arts Center; Morristown, NJ Tues, Oct 29 The Capitol Theatre; Port Chester, NY Wed, Oct 30 The Capitol Theatre; Port Chester, NY Fri, Nov 1 Hard Rock Live; Atlantic City, NJ Sat, Nov 2 Hard Rock Live; Atlantic City, NJ Sun, Nov 3 The Lyric; Baltimore, MD Wed, Nov 6 The Stanley Theatre; Utica, NY Sat, Nov 9 The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor; Windsor, ON Sun, Nov 10 OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino; Niagara Falls, ON Wed, Nov 13 Stranahan Theater; Toledo, OH Thurs, Nov 14 Mershon Auditorium; Columbus, OH Sat, Nov 16 Silver Creek Event Center; New Buffalo, MI Sun, Nov 17 DeVos Performance Hall; Grand Rapids, MI NEWAYGO COUNTY, MI -- A Newaygo County man has pleaded no contest to violating the states new safe gun storage law after his 5-year-old grandson died in a shooting. Karl Robart, 62, entered the plea Monday, Aug. 5 in Newaygo County Circuit Court GRAND RAPIDS, MI Over 100,000 people in West Michigan have already cast their ballots early ahead of the Tuesday, Aug. 6 primary election. As of Monday morning, 105,916 voters in Kent and Ottawa counties had taken advantage of early in-person voting and absentee ballots, which means roughly 14% of the 755,400 registered voters in both counties have cast their ballots early, according to county election officials. OTTAWA COUNTY, MI Going swimming in Crockery Lake? Maybe keep an eye out: There were unconfirmed reports Sunday, Aug. 4, of an alligator in the water near Grose Park. Ottawa County sheriffs deputies and state Department of Natural Resources conservation officers used boats to search for an alligator but came up empty. Lt. Gerald Thayer, DNR Law Enforcement Division supervisor in southwest Michigan, said there have been at least two reports of an alligator in the lake. One witness estimated that an alligator was about 4-foot long while another said it was closer to 6 feet. The DNR and Sheriffs Office combined for about five hours of searching on the water. The 100-acre lake in Ottawa Countys Chester Township is small enough that an alligator would likely be spotted. It wouldnt be the first time - alligators show up here and there, Thayer said. It does happen. It wouldnt surprise me. Typically, someone brings one back from a trip down south. Eventually, it gets too big and the owner releases it into the wild. The trouble is, alligators cant survive Michigans winters. Thayer said that a 2- or 3-foot alligator wouldnt be a big concern for those in the water as long as they didnt try to grab it or pet it. Theyre usually not aggressive toward humans. But if a 6-foot alligator turned up, that could turn into a safety issue. The sheer size and aggression would be a problem and it would have to be removed. Most of the time, theyre here just for a short time and really dont cause much trouble, Thayer said. Its not uncommon for people to mistake, say, a soft-shell turtle for small alligator. But the witness who reported the 4-footer was adamant it was an alligator, Thayer said. Thayer asked that any witnesses take photos and share with the DNR or Sheriffs Department. The DNR can be reached at 800-292-7800 while the Sheriffs Department is 616-738-4000. On its Facebook page, the Ottawa County Parks and Recreation Department offered this advice: Based on this information, please use whatever caution you feel is appropriate related to swimming and boating in the lake. ANN ARBOR, MI Two proposals aiming to reform Ann Arbor elections are on their way to the November ballot with over 11,000 signatures collected. The Coalition for Ann Arbors Future announced Tuesday, Aug. 6, the city clerks office has certified the grassroots group has enough petition signatures to put both proposed city charter amendments to voters Nov. 5. One proposal would make mayor and City Council races nonpartisan, while the other seeks to establish public campaign financing for those races, using city taxpayer funds. City Clerk Jackie Beaudry confirmed she notified the group Monday that both petitions met the requirement of having signatures from at least 5,705 registered city voters. One had 5,843 and the other had 5,868. She is forwarding the ballot language to the governor and attorney general for their review now, she said. Certification of the petitions marks the culmination of a three-month effort by over 150 volunteers who collected signatures all around town, according to the coalition. That included everywhere from the Farmers Market to the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, in neighborhoods and outside libraries. Residents and former city officials behind the effort are concerned about the way city elections have gone in recent years and the level of campaign spending. Its no longer unusual for candidates to raise and spend tens of thousands of dollars, making it harder for anyone to compete on a shoestring budget. The cost of running for office has become prohibitive for many potential candidates, the coalition argues. Former City Council Member Anne Bannister, at left with petitions in hand, collects petition signatures for city election reform proposals outside the Ann Arbor Summer Festival along with other Coalition for Ann Arbors Future members on June 25, 2024. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com)Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News The groups Voters Not Money proposal calls for creating a Fair Elections Fund equal to 0.3% of the citys general fund budget. If it was in place already, that would amount to about a $370,000 pot of city funds that could go to campaigns this year. Candidates who want to access the funds, if the measure goes through, would need to voluntarily agree to lower campaign contribution limits and refuse donations from corporations, PACs and other organizations. And if they did, they would receive a 9-to-1 match on small donations up to $50, meaning for every $50 someone gave them, they would get another $450 from the city up to a maximum of $40,000. By giving more weight to small local donations, the influence of special interests would be reduced and city elections would be a contest of ideas, not cash, the coalition argues. The groups separate Democracy for Everyone proposal would end use of party labels in city elections for mayor and council. That would make it so races would be decided with independent candidates competing in November when voter turnout is higher, rather than lower-turnout August primaries where the prevailing Democrat is all but guaranteed victory in November. Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti are the last two Michigan cities that still have partisan city elections with party labels. Opinions are mixed on the two proposals, which are opposed by Mayor Christopher Taylor and others. Taylor maintains party labels such as the Democratic one next to his name convey important information to voters. He also argues using taxpayer money to support the campaigns of losing political candidates is not a good use of public funds. Elizabeth Nelson is one of multiple former council members who have lost their seats in city elections in recent years and have circulated petitions for the two ballot proposals. She noted in a blog post in May that four of five council races this year were uncontested and she thinks money is a reason. This is an expected result for anyone paying any attention to our local elections and how they now happen: a fortress has been built from big donor/PAC/out of town money, coordinated campaigns, and reciprocal endorsements among Democrats across the county, she wrote. The lowest level of elected office in Ann Arbor now has a $40,000 price of admission. Residents who care about the community see no path to participation unless they are willing to join the team that controls large sums of money and endorsements, Nelson argued. Opponents of the two ballot proposals, including Council Member Jenn Cornell, have circulated a Damn Arbor blog post arguing the changes proposed could help elect Republicans. The Coalition for Ann Arbors Future contends removing party labels means voters would be more likely to evaluate each candidates experience, qualifications, ideas and positions. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. DETROIT, MI Some of the latest polling averages show Michigan living up to its reputation as a swing state in the race for the presidency. While Republican Donald Trump led President Joe Biden in many polls before the Democrat exited the race last month, his replacement Vice President Kamala Harris now leads in one particular agencys polling average measuring Michigan residents opinions. RealClearPolitics, a media agency that tracks and charts multiple national and state-specific polls, published a polling average this month that showed Harris leading Trump by 2 percentage points (48.3% for Harris vs. 46.3% for Trump) in Michigan. The numbers included data from four polls, collected as late as July 28. That 2-point lead represented a swing in the Democrats direction compared to the previous poll RealClearPolitics published, back when Biden was still a candidate. Based on seven polls and data collected largely between the Biden debate performance and his exit from the race, RealClearPolitics published a polling average that showed Trump leading Biden by 2.1 percentage points (44% for Trump vs. 41.9% for Biden) in Michigan. Julio Borquez, an associate professor of political science at University of Michigan-Dearborn, said he would not characterize the turnaround as a surge for Harris, though. Its not that shes gaining momentum or shes taking over the lead; I would say, things are just returning back to where theyre supposed to be, Borquez said. Thats probably the safest way to put it. Biden was losing favor with Michigan residents and plenty of voters elsewhere following a June debate performance that rattled Democrats. Bidens debate disaster resulted in an erosion of support, and Harris is doing so far a pretty good job in rebuilding that lost support, Borquez said. Shes rebounded with young voters, shes rebounded with African-Americans, and you see a rebound in percentages of Democrats saying they are enthusiastic and that they intend to vote. Borquez said polling numbers for Trump have not moved much since Harris replaced Biden on the ticket. This is all action on the Democratic side, Borquez said of the polling trends. Its not as if Trump was inheriting a lot of Biden support. Most people have their minds made up about Donald Trump. What we saw (before Harris became the Democratic nominee) was because we havent seen a presidential candidate bomb on national TV like that before. Many of the polling trends shown in Michigan extend to voters nationwide, where Harris closed the gap in the lead Trump previously built against Biden, the RealClearPolitics data showed. In the last national polling average RealClearPolitics published before Bidens exit, Trump led the president by 3.1 percentage points. With Harris now at the top of the ticket, Trumps RealClearPolitics national polling averages lead dropped to .7% against his Democratic opponent. Borquez said such polling data is valuable for showing trends but should not be viewed as an indicator of how constituents will respond in voting booths. After all, many polls during the 2016 presidential election cycle including polling averages published by RealClearPolitics showed Democrat Hilary Clinton leading Trump. Then Trump went on to win the presidency. Im not a big fan of using polling results to predict how people will vote, but it can tell us whats happening right now, Borquez said. Its real easy to invest more in survey results than what is actually there. Polling is a tool in a toolbox, and as long as you use that tool for what it was intended for, youre OK. Borquez said polling averages between now and the general election could continue to sway back and forth, influenced by news-making developments relating to each candidate. Borquez said Harris choosing a running mate a decision her campaign said could be announced this week could be the next development to move the needle in polling data. Theres going to be some short-term buzz, and depending on who (the running mate) is, Harris numbers may go up a little or down a little, Borquez said. But, within a few weeks, other things will happen that will probably make (the running mate pick) a wash. Theres a (Democratic) convention coming up, and then there may or may not be a debate, and who knows what else will happen that could produce some kind of uptick or downtick. The RealClearPolitics polling data showing Harris leading Trump in Michigan comes as the Democrat prepares for her first campaign as a presidential candidate in the state. Harris will host a rally in Detroit on Wednesday, Aug. 7. Details about the event remain in the planning stages, including the time and venue, campaign officials said. Since Biden stepped out and Harris stepped in as the Democratic candidate, she has been on the campaign trail in key battleground states. Last week, Harris visited cities including Atlanta and Houston. While she has yet to visit Michigan as a presidential candidate, the vice president did campaign for Biden in Kalamazoo on July 17, five days before Biden bowed out in her favor. Detroit has served as a frequent stop for presidential candidates this year. The week before Biden dropped out, he hosted a rally inside Detroits Renaissance High School gymnasium. It was the presidents third trip to Detroit in 2024 and one of his final campaign events before exiting the race. Trump last campaigned in Detroit in June. The Republican last visited Michigan on July 21, when he hosted a rally in Grand Rapids. More than one million Michigan voters have already cast their ballots ahead of the Aug. 6 primary. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson reported Monday, Aug. 5, that about 970,000 voters have submitted an absentee ballot to be tabulated and about 73,500 people have cast their ballots during early in-person voting across the state. Weve heard from many voters who appreciate having convenient early options to participate in our elections and its great to see people engaged in the process, Benson said. As always, Im grateful to Michigans clerks and poll workers, who ensured a secure and smooth early voting process throughout the state. MLives coverage this year on races and election issues around the state can be found at this link. This is the first election year where clerks around the state are required to provide a minimum of nine days of early in-person voting. The requirement stems from a statewide ballot proposal approved by Michigan voters in 2022 Benson said 73,531 voters around the state had cast their ballot in person during the early voting period, which ended Sunday. The highest turnout day was Friday, when 11,085 ballots were cast in person. A total of 970,041 completed absentee ballots had been returned for tabulation as of Monday, Benson said. The number fell short of the high set in 2020 when 1,288,025 completed absentee ballots had been returned the day before the primary that year. Related: Michigan absentee votes on pace to shatter records. See totals so far by city/county. In all, 1,638,830 voters across the state requested an absentee ballot for this years primary. Polling places will be open Tuesday from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Eligible Michigan residents can still register to vote Monday and Tuesday at their city or township clerks office with proof of residency. Voters can register and cast a ballot on the same day. Voters who havent yet returned their absentee ballots should place it in an official ballot drop box in their jurisdiction or hand deliver it to their local clerks office. Voters should not mail their ballots at this point. With exception to military and overseas absentee ballots, all absentee ballots must be received by clerks offices or drop boxes by 8 p.m. Tuesday or they will not be counted. ANN ARBOR, MI Polls are now open across Washtenaw County for the Aug. 6 primary election. For those who havent already voted early or via absentee ballot, regular polling locations are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Find out where to vote and view a sample ballot at michigan.gov/vote. Voters are deciding contested primary races for city council and township board seats, county-level offices and various ballot proposals, as well as who should represent Michigan in the U.S. Senate and local districts in the Michigan House. The county sheriffs race may be the most closely watched contest. There also are three countywide tax proposals, plus local proposals and races in various jurisdictions. See a full roundup of MLive/The Ann Arbor News coverage of whats on the ballot. Check back on MLive.com after polls close at 8 p.m. for live election results. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MI Two presidential campaigns will visit southeast Michigan on Wednesday, Aug. 7. Republican J.D. Vance, the running mate for Donald Trump, will deliver remarks at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7, at the Shelby Township Police Department in Macomb County, Trump campaign officials announced. That means Vance will campaign about 30 miles north of where current Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for president, plans to host a rally later that same day in Detroit. Calling Harris the border czar of President Joe Bidens administration, the Trump campaign statement said Vance on Wednesday will address how Democrats in Michigan are prioritizing ludicrous programs for illegal immigrants. Theyve made sanctuary areas across the Wolverine State in places like Lansing, Ingham County, Kalamazoo County, Kent County, and Wayne County, the Trump campaign statement said. Migrant crime rings are terrorizing Michigans communities and instigating well-orchestrated robberies and attacks on homes and creating a new wave of crime. Vance, a U.S. Senator from Ohio, last spoke in front of a Michigan crowd last month when he joined Trump during a rally in Grand Rapids. There, Trump stoked fears about the impact of the Biden administrations immigration policies on Michigan. Trump at the rally referenced Grand Rapids resident Ruby Garcia, who was slain allegedly by a Mexican citizen living in the U.S. illegally. Trump painted a grim picture of what he called an invasion of migrants coming into the country illegally and committing crimes. He promised the Grand Rapids crowd that on his first day back in office he would seal the border and enact the largest domestic deportation operation in the history of our country. A community of nearly 80,000 residents, Shelby Township made headlines because of the last presidential election. The Department of States Bureau of Elections last year stripped Shelby Township Clerk Stan Grot of his duties while eight felony charges are pending against him for his involvement in a scheme to replace Michigans electoral college representatives in 2020. Grot was one of 16 individuals charged with a handful of felonies stemming from their alleged attempts to submit the alternate slate of pro-Trump electors. The scheme, investigators said, was aimed at keeping Trump in the White House for a second term despite Biden winning the electoral college vote in 2020. Biden beat Trump in Michigan by more than 154,000 votes four years ago. Shelby Township, however, resides in Macomb County, where residents favored Trump by nearly 40,000 votes over Biden, Macomb County records showed. ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, MI -- Severe storms hit the area hard as the polls were open for voting on Election Day in Southwest Michigan, causing a temporary disruption. At some voting locations in St. Joseph County, voters were asked to shelter in place during a tornado warning that hit the area Tuesday morning. A storm with warnings of a possible tornado rolled through Michigan on the morning of Tuesday, Aug. 6, destroying trees, damaging buildings, flooding streets and cutting off power for thousands of electrical customers in the area. As of early afternoon Tuesday, there have been no confirmed reports of a tornado. Storm damage in St. Joseph County shown on the morning of Tuesday, Aug. 6.(Courtesy | St. Joseph County Sheriff's Office) Three voting precincts in St. Joseph County temporarily lost power during the storm, Undersheriff Jason Bingaman said. Two of the locations had emergency power generators, though the Flowerfield Township Hall location did not, so the sheriffs office brought in a generator to get the building back online after a power outage from the storm. The township hall is located at 12020 M-216, in Marcellus. It is about 25 miles south of Kalamazoo, in St. Joseph County. Voters and election workers sheltered at some precincts, including in two bathrooms at Flowerfield Township Hall, St. Joseph County Clerk and Register of Deeds Lindsay Oswald said. The building is a former schoolhouse that is about 175 years old, township Supervisor Ron Shaver said. Though the building lost power, Oswald said, the voting machinery has a battery backup that allowed workers to continue the voting process after they stopped sheltering, when the storm had passed. Our process is built to be resilient, Oswald said. Its Michigan, we know the weather is going to be crazy here. You cant rely on it. We have to have those procedures in place and we have to be ready for anything, she said. Flowerfield Township Hall is at 12020 M-216, in Marcellus(Courtesy | Ron Shaver) The generator was brought in to ensure the location had power for the rest of the day, she said. They also brought in a lamp to run off the generator, to give election workers some light, she said. Polling locations in Burr Oak and Colon also lost power and had generators in place, she said. Oswald and other officials were busy monitoring weather conditions Tuesday morning and communicating with poll workers about when they needed to take shelter, she said. The main concern for severe weather in the county overall was from 7:50 a.m. to 9 a.m., she said. At 8:09 a.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Marcellus, the National Weather Service said. Township workers did a great job during the storm, Oswald said. People sheltered for less than a half hour, she said. Bingaman is one of five candidates running for the office, facing Dennis Allen, Joe Bingaman, Gordon L. Evilsizor and Chad Spence, to become the countys next sheriff. Bingaman said officials worked together to try to make sure the polls would stay open so people could vote. Its the proverbial, its going to happen on a day you dont want it to, Bingaman said. Storm damage in St. Joseph County shown on the morning of Tuesday, Aug. 6.(Courtesy | St. Joseph County Sheriff's Office) The county was under a tornado warning for about a half hour, Bingaman said. MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette has reached out to the township clerk seeking comment. Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter. WASHINGTON, D.C. When Vice President Kamala Harris picked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as the running mate in her presidential campaign, she checked a box many political experts said could help her win in November: Politician from a Midwest battleground state. The decision also meant she passed on the opportunity to check that same box by selecting from a lineup of Michigan-based politicians that fit the criteria. Here are the three Michigan Democrats who reportedly were in the running as potential running mates: Gretchen Whitmer Gov. Whitmers name, in fact, also was floated as a potential presidential candidate when speculation began that President Joe Biden could drop out of the race earlier this summer. Whitmer was a co-chair for Bidens campaign and she was credited by many political experts as a tested Midwest governor who could appeal to Democratic voters. Whitmer, though, never publicly addressed any ambitions to campaign as president in 2024. And, when Harris received enough support to make her the presumptive nominee for Democrats, Whitmer said she was not interested in serving as a running mate for Harris. Whitmer now serves as co-chair for the Harris campaign. Its a role that has led Whitmer to rally support for Harris outside of Michigan in recent weeks. Pete Buttigieg Buttigieg, a Traverse City resident and member of Bidens administration, also has played a role in the Harris campaign, appearing in recent weeks as a guest on political TV programs and late-night TV comedy shows to stump for the current vice president. He also was frequently mentioned among the short list of candidates who could serve as her running mate. The former mayor of South Bend, Indiana today serves as the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, providing him a resume as a politician with experience leading bodies of government and big-budget federal departments alike. While Buttigieg never publicly said he would turn down an offer to serve as a running mate to Harris, he also avoided answering the question directly when asked during TV appearances. Gary Peters The U.S. senator from Bloomfield Township was reportedly a dark horse candidate for running mate in the Harris campaign. An Axios report last month stated labor leaders approached Harris about considering Peters as her vice president pick. Peters, whose term in the U.S. Senate ends in January 2027, has enjoyed popularity among Michigan voters in past elections. In 2014, he was the leading vote recipient in all of the state, even besting then-Gov. Rick Snyders total. Nationally, Peters was the only Democrat to win an open U.S. Senate seat that year. Peters carries credentials as the leader of a top federal oversight committee in Washington, D.C. The senator serves as chair of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, which oversees the Department of Homeland Security. When MLive asked if Peters would consider campaigning as a running mate to Harris, a spokesperson for the senator did not indicate how Peters would respond. (Harris) has many strong options for her running mate and we want to respect her process, the Peters spokesperson told MLive last week. Jared McIsaac, like all second-round picks, joined the Detroit Red Wings prospect pool with much promise six years ago. But, like several other recent second-round selections, hes no longer in the organization. GREENVILLE, NC -- On Day 3 of the 2024 Little League Softball World Series, the first round of elimination games are on tap on Tuesday. Watch the Little League World Series on FuboTV (7-day free trial) PURPLE BRACKET Pennsylvania (0-1) vs. Italy (0-1) Time: 10 a.m. ET Where: Stallings Stadium (Greenville, N.C.) Stream: ESPN+ Pennsylvanias team got off to a sluggish start, as they were fell in a tough 2-1 battle to Arizona on Sunday. Italy did not have a good time in their first game, as they were trounced 16-0 by Winterville (NC) on Monday. Philippines (0-1) vs. Arizona (1-1) The Philippines is hoping they can find some offense with their season on the line, as they dropped their first game to Winterville, 10-0, on Sunday. Wilcox Little League took a step back after winning their first game of the LLSWS, as they dropped a 3-0 decision to Cranston (RI) on Monday. Watch the Little League World Series on FuboTV (7-day free trial) ORANGE BRACKET Idaho (0-1) vs. North Carolina (Salisbury) (0-1)/Ohio (1-1) Time: 1 p.m. ET Where: Stallings Stadium (Greenville, N.C.) Stream: ESPN+ After a great performance in the in regional, Eagle Little League was humbled in their first game of the LLSWS, losing to Sterlington (LA), 5-0. Mexico (0-1) vs. Canada (0-1) Time: 4 p.m. ET Where: Stallings Stadium (Greenville, N.C.) Stream: ESPN+ Mexico had an unwelcome debut in this years World Series, as they lost their first game to Austintown (OH), 6-0, on Sunday. Canada was also shut out in their first game of the tournament, as the team from Quebec lost 8-0 to Sterlington (LA) on Monday. Follow the LLSWS schedule here UPDATE: All Tornado Warnings have now expired UPDATE: Long-duration Tornado Watch issued for parts of southern Michigan today. VAN BUREN COUNTY, MI - The National Weather Service has issued Tornado Warnings for a handful of counties in southern Michigan as storms come off Lake Michigan this morning. The counties with the warnings include Van Buren, Kalamazoo, Cass, Branch, and St. Joseph. These are radar-indicated tornado conditions, according to the NWS. For the first Tornado Warning, severe thunderstorms capable of producing a tornado showed up in Van Buren County near Hartford about 7:38 a.m. The warning is slated to last until 8:30 a.m. The storm is moving east at 40 mph. At 754 AM EDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Decatur, or 9 miles southwest of Paw Paw, moving east at 40 mph, the NWS team in Grand Rapids said. The second Tornado Warning was issued at 8:10 a.m. for southern Kalamazoo County. Tornado Warning for Southwestern Kalamazoo County in southwestern Michigan until 8:45 a.m. At 8:09 a.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Marcellus, or 10 miles southeast of Paw Paw, moving east at 35 mph, NWS said. Tornado Warnings for northeastern Cass County, St. Joseph County and northwestern Branch County will continue until 9 a.m. The I-94 corridor counties, east of Van Buren, now has a long-duration Tornado Watch that stretches into mid-afternoon. This includes Kalamazoo, Calhoun and Jackson. It is in effect until 3 p.m. Ann Arbor and Detroit are not in the Tornado Watch area. Areas like Flint, Saginaw and most of the Grand Rapids area wont see these more severe storms. What the NWS is saying about this mornings first Tornado Warning: IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely. This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of southeastern Van Buren County. MLive Chief Meteorologist Mark Torregrossa said there was a large rotation seen on radar with this storm in the southern Van Buren County area when the warning was issued. Thunderstorms coming into southwest Michigan this morning were packing high winds. A wind gust of 51 mph was measured in southern Lake Michigan. You are already a Moneycontrol Pro user. OK Follow us on: Maharashtra DElEd Result 2024 for June declared at mscepune.in, direct link to 1st & 2nd year marksheets here Dhairya Karwa: Gyaarah Gyaarah is the role that gave me the right opportunity to showcase my ability OTHERS OTHERS Follow us on: My Account or or Hello, Login All Honoured and flattered that Bangladesh PM feels safe in Bharat: Kangana Ranaut OTT releases in August this week which cannot be missed at all Abhishek Sahu covers HR and Education (Careers) at Moneycontrol. He can be reached at Abhishek.Sahu@nw18.com and @Abhishek44sahu. Adrija Chatterjee is an Assistant Editor at Moneycontrol. She has been tracking and reporting on finance and trade ministries for over eight years. 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Based in Mumbai, she covers the personal finance beat for Moneycontrol. She focusses primarily on insurance, banking, taxation and financial planning Manish M. Suvarna is Senior Correspondent at Moneycontrol. He writes on the Indian money markets, RBI, Banks and NBFCs. He tweets at @manishsuvarna15. Contact: Manish.Suvarna@nw18.com Follow us on: Rustomjee to focus on Rs 1-3 crore ticket size for residential launches, says MD Boman Irani Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Tushar Goenka is a breaking news reporter who focuses on startups. Interested in venture capital, quick commerce, e-commerce, food delivery and D2C. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day OTHERS OTHERS Follow us on: My Account or or Hello, Login All Are domicile reservations by states in public employment Constitutionally valid? Follow us on: Bangladesh unrest: From China to radicals, Indias many challenges after Sheikh Hasinas exit 'Banker to the poorest of the poor': Who is Muhammad Yunus, chosen as chief adviser to Bangladesh interim govt? OTHERS OTHERS Follow us on: My Account or or Hello, Login All Battleground UP: BJP ramps up Ayodhya offensive ahead of key by-elections Follow us on: 'Violence on campuses...': Rajeev Chandrasekhar raises concerns over US envoy's invite to Indian students Follow us on: How an unreleased report is fuelling suspense in Maharashtra's political circles OTHERS OTHERS Follow us on: My Account or or Hello, Login All Delhi closely monitoring situation in Bangladesh, govt in close touch with 19,000 Indian nationals: S Jaishankar OTHERS OTHERS Follow us on: My Account or or Hello, Login All India had 'warned' Sheikh Hasina about Bangladesh army chief's appointment, cited his China leanings Khaleda Zia sees an opening as doors close on Hasina: Why it may not be good news for India OTHERS OTHERS Follow us on: My Account or or Hello, Login All The elected government will have many powers': J&K LG Manoj Sinha OTHERS OTHERS Follow us on: My Account or or Hello, Login All What's happening in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina's exit: Khaleda Zia released, minorities being attacked Best cities to find a job in the US Follow us on: This company is sending its 50,000 employees on a 10-day 'vacation'. Here's why OTHERS OTHERS Follow us on: My Account or or Hello, Login All Bangladesh Crisis: UK calls for UN probe into violence amid reports of Sheikh Hasina seeking asylum Follow us on: Bangladesh interim govt should be formed following democratic principles: US OTHERS OTHERS Follow us on: My Account or or Hello, Login All Bangladesh riots: 24 burnt alive as mob sets hotel owned by Awami League leader on fire Follow us on: Jaishankar says Sheikh Hasina 'is in shock', to address Parliament on Bangladesh unrest at 3.30pm Follow us on: From liberation war to killing Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, here is how army played key role in Bangladesh politics Follow us on: 'Hasina wasn't willing to ...': The tense final hours before ex-Bangladesh PM fled country Follow us on: Kamala Harris picks Tim Walz as her running mate: Know all about him OTHERS OTHERS Follow us on: My Account or or Hello, Login All 'Same Islamists she pleased...': Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen's irony dig at Sheikh Hasina No country for Sheikh Hasina? UK mum on asylum; India in wait-and-watch mode: What we know so far OTHERS OTHERS Follow us on: My Account or or Hello, Login All 'Very disappointed': Sheikh Hasina will not seek political comeback, confirms son Sajeeb Wazed Joy Follow us on: South Korea to ban its citizens going to border areas of Lebanon and Israel Follow us on: US passes message to Iran not to escalate at 'critical moment' for Middle East Follow us on: US urges its citizens not to travel to Bangladesh "Fund trail analysis tech tools will be used for economic offences and also in certain cases of cyber frauds, where we observe a lot of fund movement after the fraud is committed. This involves mule accounts and money being transferred between hundreds or even thousands of accounts, C Vamsi The Karnataka state police plan to deploy Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools for fund trail analysis and dark web monitoring in their bid to curb cyber fraud and economic offences. In a first, Karnataka police to deploy AI tools for fund trail analysis, dark web monitoring USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept La presidenta de la republica, Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra, junto a los presidentes del Poder Judicial, del Congreso, y el titular del @MinjusDH_Peru, participaron en la ceremonia por el Dia del Juez y la Jueza, que busca destacar la contribucion de los magistrados en la pic.twitter.com/SQobmPNhnK Australia's staggering list of animals and plants now stands at over 2,224 after 13 new additions in a month. Australias steady tidal wave of animals and plants that are threatened with extinction has continued to build. Thirteen new species were quietly added to the federal governments list of threatened species in just one month. The worrying results were revealed by the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) on Tuesday after careful analysis of the list of species given special protection under the Commonwealths Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act. The number now stands at 2,224. Labor was elected to government in 2022, promising to overhaul Australias ineffective environment protection laws. The need for action has never been greater, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek said in October that year. Warning environment protection laws are failing Australia While the government has announced some reforms, including $121 million in funding for an "independent" Environment Protection Agency, conservationists are concerned the staged rollout of changes is too slow. These latest listings show our nature laws are powerless to stop Australian plants and animals being wilfully destroyed, the ACFs nature campaigner Darcie Carruthers said. Australias forests, lizards, bush, wetlands and frogs need nature laws with teeth. Among the animals now included on the EPBC list are three reptiles, three freshwater fish, a turtle and a frog. But there is worse to come, as there are other animals like the mountain mist frog, which is still listed as critically endangered, even though researchers generally agree it is extinct. A map shows where the newly listed species are found. Source: Jaana Dielenberg/Biodiversity Council The Biodiversity Council has warned the number of species officially deemed to be threatened with extinction are just the "tip of the iceberg", adding there are thousands of species that could meet the criteria but have simply not been assessed. At the moment we are concerned that not enough resourcing is going to these processes, and as such we are seeing far fewer species being added to the list than are actually at risk," its director James Trezise said. It is really important that there is adequate resourcing by the Australian Government to do this work." One of the lizards on the list is the Hunter Valley delma, which was only described in 2022 for the first time. More than 90 per cent of the lizards known range in the NSW Hunter Valley has been damaged by open cut mining and agriculture. There are at least 20 coal mines within the species known habitat range, Carruthers said. In a sign of how everyday human activities are impacting Australias natural world, a rainforest tree, the Coffs Harbour Fontainea, was listed as critically endangered, with roadworks and construction threatening its future. Environment Minister responds to escalating threatened species list Of the 13 species added to the EPBC, six were from a backlog caused by the 2019/2020 Black Summer bushfires. In a written comment provided to Yahoo, Minister Plibersek said the government is "determined to better protect" vulnerable plants and animals. "No one wants to see another of our precious plants or animals go extinct," she said. The pig-nosed turtle is now listed as vulnerable to extinction. Source: Gerald Schneider "Giving our native species better protection under the law by listing them on the threatened species list helps, but thats not all we are doing," she added. "Labor is investing more money in the environment than any government in Australian history, including cracking down on the feral animals and weeds killing our native species, as part of a $550 million investment. "Were also fixing the Liberal Partys broken environmental laws, including establishing Australias first national Environment Protection Agency a tough cop on the beat with strong powers and penalties." What are the new species added to the EPBC list? Animals: Dalhousie goby critically endangered Dalhousie hardyhead critically endangered Dalhousie catfish critically endangered Pig-nosed turtle vulnerable Pughs sphagnum frog endangered Hunter Valley delma endangered Alpine water skink vulnerable Ringed thin-tail gecko endangered Plants: Spyridium cinereum endangered shrub Brachyscome brownii critically endangered Fontainea sp. Coffs Harbour critically endangered Sannantha whitei critically endangered Caladenia amnicola endangered Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. Reporter Andrew Roberto was raised his whole life on Saipan. He graduated from Saipan Southern High School, holds a degree from Northern Marianas College, and a BA in English from the University of Guam. He once worked for KUAM, UNO Magazine, and the Guam Daily Post. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close The Bishop Street Newsagency in Perth has recently seen three separate syndicates hit the jackpot, with each scoring roughly $1 million. Owner Tam and manager Peter Nguyen of the Bishop Street Newsagency in Perth are celebrating after selling three division one winning Lotto tickets in two weeks. Credit: PerthNow A lucky Aussie newsagent that sold three division one winning Lotto tickets in a span of just weeks has revealed details about its incredible streak. Last week the Bishop Street Newsagency in the Perth suburb of Morley celebrated after two separate syndicates purchased from the shop scored big. The good fortune continued over the weekend when a third syndicate that has been running for more than 18 years before owners Tina and Tam even bought the business pocketed $1 million, The West Australian reports. In the days since, customers have visited the store in droves with the hope of getting in on the action but the couples son and store manager Peter Nguyen has warned it might not be that simple but has released his number one big tip for lotto hopefuls. It was just a fluke that we managed to get two of them, he said of the double win last week. We didnt know at the time but we got the same numbers and we made a new syndicate with 10 shares and so it happens there are two syndicates with the same numbers. The first two groups scored $952,380 each thanks to the accidental error with one of the syndicates made up of just five people taking home almost $200,000 a piece. The group of regular players paid for a system 11 right after the time that Lotterywest changed their playslips due to Monday and Wednesday moving to Millionaire Medley, Nguyen told the publication. The old playslips didnt work so we had to move all the numbers to new playslips but we got the wrong system 11. We got the system 11 that was shared by the five people and we got the same numbers, he explained. Customers are now visiting the store in droves with the hope of getting in on the action. Source: The Lott Lotto winner frantic after losing ticket However, one of the lucky members almost missed out on their $200k payday when she lost her winning ticket and called the newsagency in tears. After frantically searching for two hours, she rang back. And thats when we [told] her, you have to come to the shop quick because at the same time, a customer has found a ticket on the floor with her name on it, Nguyen said. That ticket was worth $198,000 and she left it on the floor for two hours. Newsagency manager's tip to hitting the jackpot Although the successful streak appears to have been spurred on by pure coincidence, the store manager said he does have some advice for those hoping to hit the jackpot perseverance. The syndicate who scored $1 million in the most recent Saturday Lotto draw have been playing with numbers recommended by a customer a long time ago. The third game of that syndicate are ridiculously silly numbers, Nguyen added, explaining punters often want to cancel after discovering they are 10, 11, 12, 13, 41 and 45. Once you change those numbers, thats when it wins. In the past 12 months, Victoria saw the most division one wins but players in NSW enjoyed the most division one prize money totalling $679 million. Source: The Lott Australia's lottery hotspots over the past year In the 12 months since June 30 last year, players have scored more than $1.68 billion in division one prize money, according to data from The Lott and Lotterywest. Across Australia, a total of 344 millionaires were created almost one a day including the biggest individual winner in the countrys history. While Victoria saw the most division one wins with 133, players in NSW enjoyed the most division one prize money totalling $679 million. The suburbs that were home to the outlets that sold the most division one winning entries are: In Queensland, the postcode 4655 for Eli Waters/Urraween sold four division one winning entries. In NSW, the postcode 2000 for Sydney CBD sold four division one winning entries. In the ACT, the postcode of 2911 for Mitchell sold the territorys biggest division one prize. In VIC, the postcode 3000 for Melbourne sold four division one winning entries. In Tasmania, the postcode 7320 for Burnie sold the Apple Isles biggest division one prize. In SA, the postcode 5108 for Salisbury sold the states biggest division one prize. In the top-end, the postcode 0810 for Casuarina delivered the NTs biggest division one prize. In WA, the postcode 6054 for Bassendean sold two division one winning entries. If gambling is a problem for you, go to Gambling Help Online or call 1800 858 858. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Senator Mitch McConnell View Photo U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered remarks on the Senate floor regarding the Biden-Harris border crisis. McConnell was Tuesdays KVML Newsmaker of the Day. Here are his words: Its been less than two weeks since President Bidens name was removed from the Democratic Partys ticket. Ive already spoken about how the effort to sideline Democrats de-facto nominee robbed primary voters of their role in the electoral process. Now, as the dust settles, more and more Americans are realizing that this wasnt just a process foul it was also a massive promotion for someone with a failing record in her current job. Remember, just two months into their term, the president tasked the vice president with getting to the bottom of the surging illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border. He called her the most qualified person to lead on this issue. So, why dont we take a look at how she did? In the past three and a half years, the crisis at our southern border has made history. Border Patrol agents have recorded over 9.9 million illegal encounters. We know that nearly 2 million more have gotten away. And the Administrations catch-and-release policies have let in over 3 million without any credible means of enforcing immigration law. What rapidly became a humanitarian crisis on Vice President Harris watch is also a national security vulnerability of alarming proportions. Since October 2021, CBP have encountered 539 individuals on the terror watchlist along the southern border. The failure is vast. The facts are shocking. The numbers are staggering. But for too many American families, theres only one number that matters: the one empty chair at the dinner table. For some families, that chair is empty because an illegal immigrant killed their loved one. For many more, its empty because Chinese manufacturers and Mexican cartels have exploited the chaos at the border and made fentanyl the leading cause of death for American adults. And yet, in the face of pain and suffering, the Administrations point person on the border has approached this crisis with profound un-seriousness. It took the Vice President months to get around to visiting the border. When asked why she hadnt made time to see the effects of the Administrations open-borders policies firsthand, she quipped that she hadnt been to Europe, either. Sometimes, instead of deflection, shes employed outright denial. For example, she said we have a secure border. Another example, everythingis going rather smoothly. Of course, years earlier, under an Administration that took border security seriously, then-Senator Harris found plenty of time to elaborate on her aversion to commonsense policy. In 2017, when a federal judge blocked the previous administrations efforts to deny federal funding to sanctuary cities, she reacted with Its fantastic, Im jumping up and down. Put five exclamation points after what I said. Democrats are poised to nominate someone with a long record of being dead-wrong on securing Americas borders. So perhaps its not surprising that their media allies are working overtime to absolve the Vice President of responsibility for the undeniable crisis thats unfolded on her watch. Last week, we read headlines like No, Kamala Harris is Not the Border Czar, and claims that the vice presidents role was more limited. After the short hiatus of asking tough questions about President Bidens fitness for office, the legacy media are back in the business of papering over Democrats vulnerabilities. Even if, in this case, it means blatantly gaslighting the public. But at the end of the day, the American people know what neglect looks like. Families missing loved ones know what this sort of catastrophic failure feels like. And in November, I expect theyll have plenty to say about it. The Newsmaker of the Day is heard every weekday morning at 6:45, 7:45 and 8:45 on AM 1450 and FM 102.7 KVML. The woman wore gloves to retrieve the suspicious parcel from her letterbox. The Sydney resident was concerned the gift left inside her letterbox was 'nefarious'. Source: Reddit Health authorities have issued an important scam warning to residents in one major city after a woman found a bizarre gift in her letterbox and was forced to wear gloves while handling it in case its contents were "poisonous". She has since reportedly had a physical reaction and now a hazmat operation is underway. The Sydney woman explained she opened up her letterbox this week in Blacktown, located in the city's west, and found an object wrapped in cloth with a note on it. On the note it read, 'A hand-crafted gift and personal remedial therapy for you and your family' and 'compliments of Our Father' appears in handwriting. It claimed to be from NSW Health Services Incentive, as well as a religion, and included phone numbers and an email address. The woman immediately felt like something was off and reached out to other Aussies online to question whether the gift was "nefarious" or not. "Attached is a note around remedial therapy, contact details for NSW Health and a religious sign off," she wrote. "I hesitate to call the number provided or email as it could be some info collecting scam "I'm wondering if anyone has received anything similar or knows what it is? I have thrown it away but I'm curious to know what it is all about." Aussies were quick to share the woman's suspicions and said it "reeks of a scam", praising her for wearing gloves and binning the parcel which the woman described as a "hard orange thing". NSW Health call out 'cards and packages' as scam After word of the unusual delivery spread, NSW Health issued a warning about the "cards and packages", confirming it did not send these out and it is indeed a scam. NSW Health is aware that cards and packages have been placed in letterboxes in some homes in Sydney falsely claiming to be a gift and remedial therapy from NSW Health. pic.twitter.com/E1nB1FSZW5 NSW Health (@NSWHealth) August 5, 2024 "NSW Health is aware that cards and packages have been placed in letterboxes in some homes in Sydney falsely claiming to be a 'gift' and remedial therapy from NSW Health," it wrote on X. "NSW Health will never leave 'gifts' in your letterbox." NSW Health reported the matter to police. Hazmat operation now underway at Sydney home A hazmat operation is reportedly underway after the woman allegedly suffered a physical reaction after opening the package, contacting authorities with concerns for her health. A neighbour took to social media to say NSW Fire and Rescue officers had been inspecting drains along the residential street and had retrieved the parcel in question from the bin. It is understood multiple residents in the area received 'gifts', with one checking their home security footage and finding a man wheeling a fabric trolley behind him as he dotted around letterboxes. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors Sign View Photo Sonora, CA The Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors has a list of items to vote on and discuss at its meeting this morning. There will be a vote to extend Tuolumne Countys fire agreement with CAL Fire for three additional years, at an overall cost of just over $34 million. A recent study concluded that it costs about two million dollars less to stay with CAL Fire than it would cost for the county to provide the same services on its own. The meeting documents acknowledge that the county may have to revise (reduce) the contract down the road, however, if a sales tax measure fails in November. In addition, there will be a discussion about developing an ordinance that would prohibit parking on front yards, and there will be a presentation about the Sierra Jobs First plan. Sierra Jobs First was the focus of last weekends Mother Lode Views, and you can find the show archived here. Also, there will be a vote to approve a new five-year contract with Community Development Director Quincy Yaley. During the afternoon session, at 1:30 pm, there will be a presentation from the California Department of Insurance about reforms designed to improve fire insurance availability. The meeting starts at 9 am and you can watch it live in the media section of myMotherLode.com. The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (Zimsec) has released the 2024 June Advanced and Ordinary Level results and local students can now breathe a sigh of relief. The results are now available on the Zimsec portal which can be accessed through their website www.zimsec.co.zw. Zimsec board chairperson Professor Paul Mapfumo announced the good news to journalists. BetWinner mobile would like to congratulate all those who passed their O-Level exams. The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council board and management would like to advise the nation of the release of the 2024 June Advanced and Ordinary Level examination results, he said. With effect from today, August 6, 2024, 12 pm, Advanced and Ordinary Level examination candidates results will be accessible to all candidates and authorised personnel through the ZIMSEC portal accessed through the ZIMSEC website www.zimsec.co.zw, he said. HStudents and their families only have five days to access their results before the portal gets closed. Heads of examination centres will be able to collect the results for their respective schools or centres from Zimsecs regional offices on Wednesday 7 August 2024. Breaking News via Email Related Zimbabwe Latest News The Zimbabwean government is facing a growing crisis as the new Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency struggles to gain traction, with the black market exchange rate continuing to soar and businesses showing a strong preference for US dollar transactions. In a bid to stem the tide and force the adoption of the ZiG, the government has introduced a series of strict measures, including mandatory licensing requirements for all businesses to have functioning POS machines. The new regulations, announced after a Cabinet meeting, aim to increase the use of electronic transactions and reduce reliance on cash, a key component of the governments de-dollarisation strategy. However, the move has been met with resistance from businesses, many of whom are already struggling to access foreign currency from the interbank market. The government has responded with a series of measures aimed at promoting the use of the ZiG and cracking down on those who are undermining the de-dollarisation process. These measures include: Strengthening licensing requirements: The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) will enforce mandatory licensing requirements for all business operators to have a bank account and Point of Sale (POS) machine. This move aims to increase the use of electronic transactions and reduce reliance on cash. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) will enforce mandatory licensing requirements for all business operators to have a bank account and Point of Sale (POS) machine. This move aims to increase the use of electronic transactions and reduce reliance on cash. Deployment of inspectors: The RBZ will deploy inspectors to monitor compliance with the new licensing requirements and curb any misdemeanors that could undermine the de-dollarisation process. These inspectors will also be tasked with curbing activities that undermine price stability and the availability of basic commodities. The RBZ will deploy inspectors to monitor compliance with the new licensing requirements and curb any misdemeanors that could undermine the de-dollarisation process. These inspectors will also be tasked with curbing activities that undermine price stability and the availability of basic commodities. Increased border patrols: The government will increase border patrols and the number of inspectors to combat smuggling and counterfeit goods. The government will increase border patrols and the number of inspectors to combat smuggling and counterfeit goods. Penalties for unfair trade practices: Penalties for unjust price hikes, currency manipulation, and unfair trade practices will be reviewed, with fines ranging from US$200 to US$5,000 or the ZiG equivalent. Penalties for unjust price hikes, currency manipulation, and unfair trade practices will be reviewed, with fines ranging from US$200 to US$5,000 or the ZiG equivalent. Blacklisting of contractors: Last month, the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion blacklisted over 50 contractors for supplying the black market after receiving payments. These measures are part of a broader de-dollarisation roadmap that the government has put in place. However, the success of this roadmap hinges on the willingness of businesses to comply with the governments directives. The surge in black-market exchange rates, which peaked at US$1:23 ZiG last week, reflects the difficulties that businesses are facing in accessing foreign exchange from the interbank market. This lack of access is driving many businesses to prefer US dollar transactions, even if it means breaking the law. Various businesses across the country are reportedly falsifying network issues with their POS machines to justify exclusive trading in foreign currency. Those who do comply with the governments directives are often met with opportunistic traders who purchase products in bulk using the ZiG before reselling them in US dollars at informal markets, offering discounts in US$. The governments efforts to promote the use of the ZiG are facing significant challenges. The black market exchange rate is a major obstacle, and businesses are finding creative ways to circumvent government regulations. Unless the government can address these challenges, its de-dollarisation push is likely to face continued resistance. Meanwhile, the government is also focusing on addressing the issue of idle industrial space. Cabinet has approved the establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Task Force to identify and utilize idle and abandoned industrial spaces, including empty shells, rail infrastructure, and other properties that have been abandoned by their owners. The government hopes that by utilizing these spaces, it can stimulate economic growth and create new employment opportunities. However, the success of this initiative will depend on the governments ability to attract investors and provide the necessary support for businesses to operate in these spaces. Breaking News via Email Related Zimbabwe Latest News The Indonesian server didn't think the Aussie would see the comment they left on the receipt. Source: TikTok An Aussie almost burst into tears after seeing a comment left on her food receipt that her server in Bali didn't realise she could read. The woman was ordering dinner at a restaurant to take away when an Indonesian word on the receipt caught her eye. She took a closer look, questioning at first whether it was referencing her. The section where it was written is usually where servers note down the diner's name to help differentiate orders, however, a "descriptor" was written instead. "She put a descriptor in Indonesian as my order name and what she didn't realise is it was on the receipt," she said on social media. "I bet you she was expecting me not to know this word in Indonesian but I knew it." She asked the server about the word, suggesting maybe it was a reference to themselves, but they denied it. "I go, 'Girl, you don't have to call me that'," she said, before explaining she had been referred to as Ms Cantik Ms Beautiful. Aussies praise 'beautiful people' of Bali After explaining the situation online in a video, many were quick to confess the story didn't go in the direction they were initially expecting but said they should have know better as Indonesian people are "the loveliest". "I was thinking it was something rude but how stupid of me," one wrote, while another said he had recently received a receipt with 'ganteng' on it, which translates to handsome. "So kind!" one marvelled, while others agreed the description given to the Aussie was warranted. "[It] actually made my day," the woman said. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Ukrainian Armed Forces have been drafting 30,000 troops each month since May, reports reveal The Ukrainian Armed Forces (AFU) has been drafting 30,000 new recruits monthly , ostensibly to replenish its numbers in its ongoing war with Russia. While Ukrainian authorities have declined to share conscription figures due to confidentiality rules, several reports including one from the New York Times (NYT) confirmed this development. According to three military experts aware of the current count, Kyiv has been drafting up to 30,000 new troops monthly since May. This coincided with a new conscription law taking effect, as per NYT. The number is "two to three times more than during the last winter months," the experts remarked, adding that it is about the same number the Russian Armed Forces is recruiting each month. That figure could not be independently confirmed, however. The experts spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the confidential numbers. Aside from the experts, other sources this time from several AFU brigades deployed on the battlefield also confirmed this increase. Brigade commanders said they were hoping the influx of new draftees would help Kyiv stabilize the front line this summer. Nazar Voytenkov, press officer for the AFU's 33rd Mechanized Brigade, said his unit had "received more newbies this month" than they had at the beginning of the year. "More are coming to us," he continued. Lt. Serhiy Skibchyk, press officer for the AFU's 65th Brigade, also attested to the increase in troop numbers. "The situation is slightly improving compared to the end of 2023, when there was a severe shortage of people," he said, adding that small groups of conscripts have been reaching his unit weekly. "But our needs still exceed the number of people we're getting," admitted Skibchyk, whose unit is fighting in southern Ukraine. Will the new recruits be ready to fight? Sputnik News reported that a law bolstering Ukraine's mobilization rules took effect on May 18. This law seeks to replenish Ukrainian forces depleted by more than two years of conflict. Under the new law, all Ukrainians eligible for military service must report to conscription offices within 60 days of the edict taking effect. (Related: No escape from the meat grinder: Zelensky signs tyrannical mobilization bill that lets no man escape.) The outlet added that Zelensky signed a decree on general mobilization on Feb. 24, 2022, a day after he declared martial law. The mobilization decree and martial law declaration in which men aged from 18 to 60 are banned from leaving Ukraine have been repeatedly extended. Aside from the mandatory mobilization, Ukraine has also signed into law a proposal to allow prisoners to fight for the AFU. Ukrainian Justice Minister Denys Maliuska said Kyiv has released some 3,800 inmates to serve in the military in exchange for the possibility of parole when their fighting duties conclude. However, according to the sources NYT spoke with, the boosted mobilization hasn't translated to a stronger AFU on the battlefield. Many conscripts are still completing the weeks-long training process, and have yet to be deployed in the frontlines. Aside from this, many of the recruits aren't physically fit for combat. Voytenkov recounted that the 33rd Mechanized Brigade gave a week of additional training to conscripts to show them the weapons and armored vehicles they would be using. But after just the basic training, he pointed out that "they are not ready to fight, honestly." "Mobilizing soldiers is just one part of a larger equation for Ukraine," NYT noted. "Ensuring that troops are properly trained and supplied with enough weapons and ammunition is equally important." But even Zelensky acknowledged this month that there were insufficient facilities to train conscripts. He also lamented the delays in deliveries of Western military materiel, blaming this for the more than a dozen AFU brigades being under-equipped. Head over to UkraineWitness.com for similar stories. Watch this video of Ukrainian military recruiters looking for draft dodgers. This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: NATO tells Ukraine to bolster troop numbers through accelerated conscription. Draft official tells Spanish newspaper El Pais: Ukrainians are rejecting the army. Ukraine's parliament passes bill allowing certain PRISONERS to join the military. Kyiv to penalize, block bank accounts of draft dodgers amid serious shortage of soldiers. Ukraine so desperate for new troops that Zelensky is now drafting PRISONERS to fight his war. Sources include: SputnikGlobe.com DNYUZ.com Brighteon.com Shocking new revelations about Google: They control billions of people As news emerges that Google is censoring search results for the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, a new interview with a data scientist reveals how Google has the power to change the minds and votes of billions of people. (Article by Frank Wright republished from LifeSiteNews.com) In certain regions such as the U.S., Googles autocomplete search function displays no results for Trump assassination. X (formerly Twitter) owner Elon Musk has accused Google of election interference as its search engine disappears Trump. Facebooks Meta AI has described the failed assassination attempt as fictional. Now Google search results for Trump are returning results supporting Kamala Harris, whose long history of vacuous and extreme left-wing statements is being scrubbed from the internet. On July 30, regime mouthpiece Newsweek ran a headline that said Kamala Harris Popularity Reaches Record High. Yet reports claim that in private not even the Democrats believe the hype manufactured by their allies in Big Tech and the captive media. This message is intended for public consumption, and the public has a right to know who is making these messages and how. With this new report, Dr. Robert Epstein shows the power of Google to edit reality in real time in a process which he claims could shift up to 25 million votes in Harris favor. Reading the news, it seems like this process is already underway. Speaking to Michael Knowles on May 11, the Harvard psychologist explores how Google is flexing its digital dominance to distort American democracy. Shockingly, he also details how he was warned he was going to be killed in some sort of accident in a few months because of his revelations. With obvious emotional difficulty Epstein adds that months later, his wife died in a horrendous car accident. Despite these horrific events, the data scientist heroically remains dedicated to telling the American people the truth about the power distorting their democracy. We published a landmark study showing Google whose homepage is viewed 500 million times every day can change peoples views about anything at all, he told Knowles. Epsteins report was picked up by Donald Trump in 2019, and attempts were made to discredit its claims, which did nothing to explain the obvious partnership between Big Tech firms like Google and Facebook and the U.S. intelligence agencies. Wow, Report Just Out! Google manipulated from 2.6 million to 16 million votes for Hillary Clinton in 2016 Election! This was put out by a Clinton supporter, not a Trump Supporter! Google should be sued. My victory was even bigger than thought! @JudicialWatch Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 19, 2019 Five years of warnings Epstein had explained to Tucker Carlson in March 2019 how Google can take a 50/50 split among undecided voters and change it to a 90/10 split with no one knowing they have been manipulated. Epstein told the U.S. Senate in June 2019 that the effect of search engine manipulation was one of the most powerful forms of influence ever discovered in the behavioral sciences. Dr. Robert Epstein is introduced by Michael Knowles as the head of the American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology. He is not a conservative, and never has been. As Epstein says of himself, I love America and democracy, and I am also not a conservative. I have been center/center-left my whole adult life. This was not enough to protect him from smears in the press controlled by what Matt Taibbi calls the censorship-industrial complex. In 2015, even Politico admitted his evidence was compelling. Yet Epstein was smeared in 2019 for his flimsy study as it hit the headlines, and had his life threatened after giving a presentation. He told Michael Knowles in the May 2024 interview linked above: I had given a private briefing. A few minutes later one of them walked out I know exactly who it was and he walked up to me and said, Dr. Epstein, based on what you just told us, I predict youre going to be killed in some sort of accident in the next few months.' Epstein continued, But a few months later, my beautiful, amazing wife was killed in a horrendous car accident. Are you deterred at all? asks Knowles. Yes, Epstein replies, before explaining that theres another part of me which is the science guy who is determined to examine and publish the evidence. That evidence suggests the power of online platforms to decide U.S. presidential elections. The digital hand on the balance Epstein says his data shows Google is clearly biased against Trump. Data Ive collected since 2016 show that Google displays content to the American public that is biased in favor of one political party a party I happen to like, but thats irrelevant, he told Knowles. Up to 25 million votes shifting in 2024 What is relevant to Epstein? No private company should have either the right or the power to manipulate large populations without their knowledge, he said. He now says Google alone will be able to shift between 6.4 million and 25.5 million votes in the presidential election with no one knowing. Epstein says he can go way beyond that, explaining how peoples belief in the lottery win of going viral on social media is a fantasy. It is Big Tech who picks these winners. People these days are fascinated with virality, he explains. The whole world seems to be run by the influencers. Viral manufacture How does anyone hit the influencer jackpot and go viral to millions of viewers? What people dont get is that these companies Facebook, [Facebooks] Instagram, TikTok they have total control over virality, Epstein said. We think of it as winning the lottery. Thats all. Some people win the lottery and most people dont. This is what Big Tech wants people to believe and they largely do. Yet these viruses do not emerge organically. They are manufactured in secret, according to the designs of the designers. In fact, those companies have 100 percent control over what goes viral [and] what gets suppressed, censored, or is made to disappear, Epstein said. Disappearing reality Donald Trump was made to disappear from Twitter, his account banned whilst he was the sitting president of the United States. Now details of the attempt to assassinate Trump are also being made to disappear by Google. Facebooks Meta AI describes the failed assassination as a fictional event. Meta AI says the Trump assassination attempt is a fictional event. pic.twitter.com/nUApDamC1a Billboard Chris ???? (@BillboardChris) July 29, 2024 The plot to kill the leading enemy of the liberal globalists is being erased in real-time. The Hunter Biden laptop and its contents were wiped from screens with defamatory lies supported by the intelligence community, whose partnership with firms such as Google has been documented in detail by Matt Taibbi. Hundreds of former and current U.S. intelligence agents work with Google and Facebook (Meta), and former Israeli intelligence agents now have a leading role in content moderation on X. The Soros-funded Google Gemini project is going one step further seeking to delete information before it can be forgotten, in a new censorship initiative known as prebunking. This gives online platforms and NGOs the power to censor information as it appears, preventing it from ever being widely seen. As independent journalist Michael Shellenberger reported in February, Google also runs a little-known project called Jigsaw. In partnership with the U.S. and German governments, it uses sophisticated techniques of mental manipulation, including redirecting people from one political cause to another and prebunking, or denying the truth of information inconvenient to governments. It has shaped narratives on COVID misinformation, farmer protests, and the notorious fiction of Russian influence, including the falsehood that was Russiagate the failed attempt to destroy Donald Trumps reputation by smearing him as a Russian agent. Of course, establishment fact checkers have been busy prebunking this news since it appeared. Dr. Epsteins report was delivered to the U.S. Senate in June, 2019. Trump mentioned this in an X post eight weeks later. Selective debunking Slates April Glaser was quick to dismiss the bogus study which led to the claims then being broadcasted on Joe Rogans podcast reaching an audience of millions. Denouncing the report, Glaser defends Facebook and Google, saying that when Facebook investigated itself, it found no evidence of any bias against conservatives. Glaser says nothing about the evidence published by Google, noting only that Epstein may prefer Clinton to Trump, but the thing he seems to really dislike is Google. Glaser is not in the least bit curious as to why anyone might dislike tech giants for subverting American and European democracy. It is unlikely Glaser would be interested in why Dr. Epsteins wife died in a horrendous car accident months after Epstein was warned his life would end in the same way for highlighting the corruption of democracy and the manipulation of the American mind by Big Tech giants. The conspiracy against the obvious Google, Facebook, and X have the power to decide what goes viral and how many minds are infected by their transmitted neuroweapon of choice. What they leave out is the obvious, and it is obvious that they are doing this. Go and type Trump assassination into Google now. The phrase is absent from Googles autocomplete. Can the powers behind the censorship-industrial complex be trusted? Yes. They can be trusted to stop at nothing to prevent you from finding out the facts of anything that matters to them. At this point, our whole system is governed by a digitally coordinated conspiracy against the obvious. This system is obviously diabolical, and the spiritual warfare it is waging includes the large-scale deception and demoralization of the Western public. This used to be called the Free World. As long as people remember this, there is hope it can be worthy of that name once again. Big Tech is doing its best to make everyone forget this fact, forever. You can read more on Dr. Epstein studies on the internet and the influence of public opinion here. Read more at: LifeSiteNews.com Israels assassination of Hamas leader Haniyeh in Iran signals Netanyahus willingness to escalate conflict into full-scale regional war By ordering the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas' political bureau, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sent a decisive message to Iran and the broader resistance movements in the region: He aims to escalate the conflict into a full-scale regional war There is still no solid confirmation regarding how Haniyeh was killed, but a report claims that Israeli intelligence agency Mossad was able to bribe Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps agents to plant a remotely detonated explosive device in his room. Other reports suggest a drone or missile strike. This move not only highlights Netanyahu's aggressive stance but also reflects a calculated effort to deepen Israels involvement in ongoing hostilities. The killing of Haniyeh, who was based in Tehran and had no direct role in the recent Hamas attack on Oct. 7, has significant implications. He was engaged at the time in peace negotiations with mediators from Qatar and Egypt, and his death has effectively dismantled any prospect for dialogue aimed at securing the release of Israeli hostages or ending the ceaseless killing of Palestinians in Gaza. This development was underscored by the fact that United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken publicly denied any prior knowledge or involvement in the attack, further eroding Washington's already fragile credibility. (Related: U.S. leading diplomatic efforts to prevent Israel from retaliating against Hezbollah strikes.) Despite this denial, U.S. security officials were briefing journalists within an hour of the attack, confirming the death of a senior member of the "Axis of Resistance," an informal, Iranian-led political and military coalition made up of a variety of national governments and militant groups, including Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Netanyahu eager to go to war with Iran Netanyahu's move aligns with his long-standing belief that Iran is the primary force behind regional resistance, with Hamas and Hezbollah acting as its proxies. This perspective has been a central theme in Netanyahu's political strategy, which has consistently aimed to undermine Palestinian aspirations and prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state. Netanyahu's recent actions suggest that he views Haniyeh's assassination as a strategic step towards his ultimate goal of securing a decisive victory for Israel, even if it means dragging the U.S. and potentially other friendly nations into a broader regional conflict. In addition to the broader strategic implications, Netanyahu's decision also has immediate consequences for ongoing negotiations. His assassination is expected to strengthen Hamas rather than weaken it. Haniyeh, who had lost numerous family members, including sons and grandsons, to Israeli attacks, was respected for his ability to prioritize the Palestinian cause over personal grief. His death is likely to galvanize support for Hamas and enhance its stature in Palestinian and broader Arab and Muslim communities. The broader context of this escalation includes significant internal challenges for Israel. Recent reports have highlighted severe mistreatment of detainees at the Sde Teiman detention center, where allegations of torture and abuse have emerged. These revelations, coupled with protests and unrest, underscore growing domestic instability within Israel. The arrest of soldiers accused of sexual abuse and the subsequent protests at Sde Teiman, involving both reservists and far-right parliamentarians, reflect deep fractures within the Israeli military and society. Netanyahu's decision to escalate the conflict with the assassination of Haniyeh appears to be a strategic gamble, aimed at redirecting attention from internal issues and consolidating political support. However, it risks exacerbating existing tensions and destabilizing Israel further. The Israeli military's understanding of the situation indicates that killing Haniyeh may have been counterproductive, given the current inability to achieve a decisive military victory or address the complex geopolitical dynamics involving Hezbollah, the Houthis, and other resistance groups. Watch this broadcast from PressTV discussing how Ismail Haniyeh's assassination could not have been done by Netanyahu without the blessing of the United States. This video is from the Tony Gosling channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Yemen's Houthis pledge solidarity and support for Lebanon if Israel invades. Only a failing U.S. empire would be so blind as to cheer Netanyahu and his genocide. Netanyahu expected to delay Gaza ceasefire deal until after the U.S. presidential election. Netanyahu defends Israels war with Hamas, gets boycotted by lawmakers during address to U.S. Congress. Israeli official says its clear Netanyahu doesnt want a deal with Hamas. Sources include: MiddleEastEye.net TimesOfIsrael.com Brighteon.com INTEGRITY ISSUE: Kamala Harris distances herself from past far-left stances to win voter support Vice President Kamala Harris has been distancing herself from several far-left positions she previously endorsed to seek voter appeal for the upcoming elections. In the past few weeks, resurfaced videos of her interviews have been circulating online to reveal the truth about her controversial stances and statements on key issues. For instance, in a June 2020 interview on the "Ebro in the Morning" radio program, Harris publicly endorsed the "defund the police" movement. Harris then advocated for reimagining public safety and reallocating funds traditionally spent on policing. (Related: Mainstream media memory holes border czar moniker of Kamala Harris amid worsening migrant crisis.) "Defund the police, the issue behind it is that we need to reimagine how we are creating safety," Harris stated during her appearance on the radio show. "When you have cities with one-third of their entire city budget focused on policing, we know that is not the smart way or the best way or the right way to achieve safety." That same month, Harris reiterated her support for reallocating police funds during an appearance on ABCs "The View." She even suggested diverting funds from police departments to investing in public education, affordable housing, home ownership, small business capital and healthcare to create safer communities. Similarly, in a 2019 CNN town hall, then-Senator and presidential candidate Harris boldly proclaimed that she supported banning fracking in Rust Belt states like Pennsylvania. "Theres no question I'm in favor of banning fracking," Harris said at the time. But because Pennsylvania is economically reliant on fracking, the Harris campaign recently stated that she would not ban fracking if elected. In a 2018 interview with NBCs Kasie Hunt, Harris suggested a complete overhaul of ICE when asked if she supported abolishing it. "Theres no question that weve got to critically reexamine ICE and its role, and the way that it is being administered, and the work it is doing," Harris explained during the interview. "And we need to probably think about starting from scratch." Harris has also previously suggested that felons should have voting rights, supported mandatory gun buyback programs and the elimination of private health insurance in favor of Medicare For All. But as she seeks voter appeal for the upcoming presidential election in November, she has been "changing" and "sugar-coating" her narratives. Harris faces intense and renewed criticism from conservatives as her past interviews resurfaced As Harris' stance on these controversial issues resurfaces while she tried to disown them, the vice president faces intense and renewed criticism from conservatives. "Kamala Harris is the most far-left progressive presidential nominee in history and extreme Democrats in the Rust Belt now own every single policy she supports," National Republican Congressional Committee spokesman Mike Marinella told Fox News Digital. Harris has also faced a backlash on social media, with Donald Trump Jr. posting on X: "Kamala Harris is even more extreme than Joe Biden She wants to ban fracking and kill countless jobs in states like PA for American workers." Similar sentiments were echoed by GOP Pennsylvania Senate candidate Dave McCormick and former acting Director of the United States National Intelligence Ric Grenell, who warned Pennsylvania voters against supporting Harris. Former President Donald Trump also joined the chorus as he shared a clip of Harris' past comments supporting the defunding of police, with a caption: "Shes a radical left lunatic, defund the police, all of the different things." Additionally, RJ Hauman, the president of the National Immigration Center for Enforcement claimed that a Democratic presidential ticket led by Harris will result in a significant shift to the left on immigration enforcement. "Kamala Harris wasn't just Bidens Border Czar, she was his Abolish ICE Director directing the agency in charge of enforcing our immigration laws to willfully violate them," Hauman said. "Now that Biden is out of the picture, she is sure to return to some of the most insane anti-enforcement positions that weve ever seen from an elected official. The choice in November will now be even more clear mass deportation or mass release of illegal aliens and violent criminals into American communities." Follow KamalaHarris.news for more stories about the vice president. Watch this Fox News report about Trump campaign press secretary Karoline Leavitt calling Kamala Harris a dangerously liberal and radical leftist. This video is from the TrendingNews channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Kamala Harris loves transgender child mutilation and other degenerate LGBT perversion. Kamala Harris solution to climate change is to alter the food pyramid and force Americans to eat less meat. Kamala Harris hired an illegal immigrant WHO ATTACKED A WOMAN to be part of jobs program while serving as San Francisco's DA. Kamala Harris secures endorsements from top Democrats except Barack Obama. TRUTH about Kamala Harris: She bailed out BLM rioters rather than punish them. Sources include: TheNationalPulse.com MSN.com 1 MSN.com 2 MSN.com 3 Brighteon.com United, Delta, Lufthansa and other major airlines cancel flights to Tel Aviv amid heightened fears of Israel escalating conflict The Lufthansa Group has joined several major airlines in suspending all passenger and cargo flights to and from Tel Aviv due to heightened security concerns. This decision follows similar moves by United Airlines, Delta Airlines, British Airways, Fly Dubai and Brussels Airlines, in response to escalating tensions in the region. (Related: Israeli tourism industry in collapse as 10% of the countrys hotels at risk of shutting down.) The suspension comes after Israel's recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which has greatly raised fears of a broader conflict amid concerns that Iran might retaliate with another wave of missile and drone strikes against Israel, prompting airlines to cancel flights to prioritize passenger safety. Lufthansa announced the cancellation of flights through Aug. 8, with a spokesperson citing "the current development in the region" as the reason. United Airlines has suspended its daily flights to Tel Aviv, starting with the evening flight from Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, citing security concerns and a focus on the safety of customers and crew. Delta has canceled flights between New York City's John F. Kennedy International Airport through at least Aug. 2, with other airlines also tentatively suspending service for at least two days or more. In a related incident, a Lufthansa pilot refused to land at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv due to safety concerns amid rising tensions with Hezbollah. The flight, scheduled to arrive from Munich, was diverted to Larnaca Airport in Cyprus. Initially, the airline informed passengers that the diversion was due to "technical reasons" but later confirmed that it was a safety precaution as the crew felt unprepared to fly into Israel. Governments worldwide have issued high-level security alerts for travel to Lebanon and the occupied Palestinian territories, advising against travel to these areas. The American embassy in Beirut has urged United States citizens to avoid travel to Lebanon and be prepared to shelter in place should the conflict escalate. The administration of President Joe Biden has warned of the potential for a major conflict involving Hezbollah in Lebanon, but as of now, there has been no formal evacuation order for U.S. citizens in the region. Security concerns preventing airlines from scheduling flights to Israel In communications with Global News, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines confirmed that they have paused flights to Tel Aviv due to security concerns. United's suspension started Wednesday, July 31, for its Newark Liberty to Tel Aviv route. The airline is evaluating its next steps and will continue to monitor the situation, prioritizing the safety of customers and crew. Delta is also monitoring the situation and has suspended flights through Aug. 2, with sales halted until that date. Affected customers will be notified, and flights with partner airlines Air France and EL AL Israel Airlines remain bookable through Delta's website when available. Delta has issued a travel waiver for customers who booked flights to or from Tel Aviv before Aug. 14. In contrast, Air Canada suspended its Tel Aviv flights weeks ago. As of July 11, flights from Toronto Pearson International Airport are suspended until Oct. 15, and flights from Montreal are paused until summer 2025. Passengers with flights up to Aug. 5 can rebook or receive a travel credit or refund. Tickets purchased through travel agencies must be managed directly with those agencies. Watch this video discussing Israel's recent attacks against the Axis of Resistance in Yemen and Iran. This video is from the channel Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth on Brighteon.com. More related stories: COUNTRY IN COLLAPSE: 46,000 Israeli businesses have shut down since October 7. Israeli Zionists have been controlling U.S. government with espionage for DECADES, including influencing "alternative" media. Israel carried out sloppy $2M influence campaign to sway U.S. lawmakers online using sock puppet accounts and GOT CAUGHT. Sources include: ZeroHedge.com GlobalNews.ca Brighteon.com U.K. police investigating email cover-up accusations against new Washington Post publisher London police are investigating the Washington Posts new publisher, Will Lewis, for allegedly leading an effort to cover up the phone hacking scandal involving British tabloids in 2011. Former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown revealed the probe in an opinion piece in the Guardian newspaper yesterday. Brown, who served as the countrys prime minister from 2007 to 2010, explained how he recently pressed police to investigate Lewis, who he says oversaw the destruction of numerous pieces of evidence, including millions of emails, related to the case in his capacity as an executive for Rupert Murdochs News International, which owned the News of the World. He cited new evidence demonstrating Lewiss role in the form of documents that were recently made public in civil court proceedings. British police have already set up a special enquiry team that will be tasked with looking into Browns allegations. Investigations have already concluded that employees of the tabloid tapped the phones of numerous politicians, celebrities, ordinary people and members of the British royal family as they sought scoops for their publications. The revelations led to intense public backlash that spurred several major resignations. Murdoch stepped down as the director of News Corporation in response, and the paper was closed in 2011. Brown also claimed that Lewis tried to mislead police by accusing the former PM of trying to steal emails that were related to the hacking investigation. Brown wrote: He tried to blame me by explaining to the police that he had been told that I was conspiring to steal these emails. The Murdoch team implied I had bribed one of their former employees to do so. Blazoned across the top of every edition of the Washington Post is the statement, Democracy dies in darkness, he went on. But what if the publisher himself is a master of the dark arts? Although Murdochs company conceded that the allegedly deleted emails were indeed missing, they maintain that an upgrade to their email system is what caused the mass disappearance rather than a deliberate mass deletion aimed at hiding evidence. However, Lewis told police at the time that they removed the emails following a tip that Brown was trying to steal them, even though Lewis admitted that he had no evidence backing up the supposed tip. Lewis has been a controversial figure at the struggling Washington Post This inquiry is the biggest threat yet to Lewiss position at the Washington Post. He has been facing a slew of ethical concerns since being named the CEO and publisher of the Washington Post in November by owner Jeff Bezos. The paper has been struggling in recent years, losing $77 million last year alone, along with half of the traffic to its website. Two journalists at the paper who have won Pulitzer Prizes have called on Lewis to step aside, while Robert Winnett, who Lewis tapped for the top editor role there, decided against joining following unflattering reports about his own history. Lewis attracted further controversy when it was revealed last month that he tried to kill a story by NPR about his involvement in the coverup of the tabloid hacking scandal. He reportedly offered a reporter at NPR an interview in exchange for scrapping the story. We count on our journalists to shed light on the darkest of areas to awe us with novel reporting, not commit groundbreaking crimes of their own, Brown wrote. Sources for this article include: RT.com CNN.com TheGuardian.com Poll: Most Germans oppose the U.S. deploying long-range missiles in Germany Most Germans believe that the country's decision to allow the U.S. to deploy long-range missiles there is wrong , according to a recent poll. The poll, which was conducted from July 25 to 26 by the Forsa Institute for Social Research and Statistical Analysis on behalf of the RTL broadcaster, surveyed 1,002 respondents. Of this total, 49 percent of respondents from the former West Germany think the new missile deployment is "not right." Only 45 percent of respondents from the former Bonn Republic were in favor of the deployment. The survey also found that opposition to the U.S. missile deployment is higher in the territories that comprised the former East Germany. Seventy-four percent opposed the decision, compared to the 23 percent who are in favor of the deployment. Following the end of World War II and throughout the Cold War, Germany was divided into two West Germany (formally the Federal Republic of Germany) under Allied control, and the Soviet-controlled East Germany (formally the German Democratic Republic). It was only after the collapse of the Berlin Wall in 1989 that the eastern and western blocs were united. On July 10, Germany and the U.S. announced in a joint statement that the latter would start deploying missiles with "long-range fire capabilities" on German soil from 2026. The said missile systems were previously banned under the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, according to Antiwar.com. Under the treaty, signatory parties are not allowed to use land-based missile systems with a range between 310 and 3,400 miles. Among the missiles to be deployed are nuclear-capable Tomahawk missiles, which have a range of more than 1,000 miles. Because of the INF Treaty ban on a land-based version, Tomahawk missiles are typically used on U.S. Navy destroyers and submarines. Aside from this, SM-6 missiles which can hit targets up to 290 miles away will also be deployed. (Related: U.S. bares plan to deploy previously banned missiles to Germany.) Given these, Washington appears to insinuate the deployment of a Typhon missile system. This covert system can be concealed in a 40-foot shipping container and can fire both Tomahawk and SM-6 missiles. German politicians oppose missile deployment Several German politicians also opposed the plan, including allies of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz from his Social Democratic Party (SPD). Lawmaker Rolf Mutzenich, who leads the SPD in the Bundestag Germany's lower house of parliament is one of them. "Not every weapon makes Germany immediately safer," said Mutzenich, who previously warned that the "danger of an unintentional military escalation is considerable." Senior SDP members were also reportedly concerned about the deployment, according to POLITICO. This prompted them to call a debate about the matter in September. "The current debate surrounding the announced stationing of long-range conventional weapons systems in Germany concerns us all," the politicians said in a note seen by the outlet. Ralph Thomas Niemeyer, chairman of the German Council for Constitution and Sovereignty, meanwhile called for the closure of U.S. bases in Germany. According to him, these bases where the missiles will be deployed are being used by the American government to carry out its own conflicts. "We saw the wars in Afghanistan, Iraq and now Ukraine being fought from German territory from the Ramstein Air Base and from other places such as [the German cities of] Wiesbaden, Grafenwohr and Stuttgart," said Niemeyer. "It would be impossible if they were not present there, so I am all for saying, 'Please go home.'" According to Niemeyer, a perennial candidate for the Bundestag, former President Donald Trump winning in the November elections in the U.S. would be a good chance for Germany to free itself from Washington's influence. This is because Trump "does not want to spend too much on the troop deployment either." "Trump voiced all this during his last presidential term. He could have gone as far as shutting [U.S. military bases in Germany] down that is what we are interested in. We would say: 'Sure, Americans, please. Go home. Be our friends, but do not occupy us anymore.'" Visit WWIII.news for similar stories. Watch Russian President Vladimir Putin threatening to deploy Moscow's arsenal in response to Washington's plan to deploy missiles in Germany. This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Moscow warns of retaliation over U.S. missile deployment in Germany. Germany pledges to expand commitment to Ukraine, agrees to host U.S. cruise missiles. Germany wants NATO to take down Russian missiles and drones hovering in Ukrainian airspace. Sources include: SputnikGlobe.com 1 News.Antiwar.com SputnikGlobe.com 2 Brighteon.com Russia to boost security ties with the Central African Republic following lifting of UN arms embargo Russia is poised to enhance its security cooperation with the Central African Republic (CAR) following the United Nations Security Council's decision to lift a decade-long arms embargo against the civil war-torn nation. The arms embargo was imposed on the CAR in 2013 in response to the outbreak of the civil war, which saw the internationally recognized government of the CAR clash with a variety of rebel groups, including the predominantly Muslim Seleka rebel alliance that successfully ousted former President Francois Bozize in a coup d'etat. This coup ignited retaliatory violence from predominantly Christian militia groups, plunging the country into the devastating, decade-long civil war it is still struggling with today. The conflict has seen thousands of civilians killed, has internally displaced hundreds of thousands and has turned the CAR into one of the world's poorest nations. On July 30, the UN Security Council unanimously voted to lift the arms embargo on the Central African Armed Forces, while at the same time extending sanctions against other armed groups operating within the country until July 2025. Russian Ambassador to the CAR Alexander Bikantov described the lifting of the arms embargo as a "major event" for the CAR, which he believes will have a long-term positive effect on the nation's security and sovereignty. He noted that Russia remains as the CAR's primary military and technical partner and expressed confidence in continued fruitful cooperation. Since 2018, Russia has been a party to a defense cooperation agreement with the CAR. Moscow signed a treaty with Bangui that allows Russian instructors to train the CAR's military. Earlier this year, Bikantov said there were a little under 2,000 Russian military specialists in the CAR serving as trainers and other kinds of military advisors and that the Kremlin had plans to answer Bangui's requests to increase this number. Additionally, there are plans to establish a Russian military base in the CAR. (Related: Latest Middle East escalations and Russia-North Korea pact could usher in a devastating global war.) Russian assistance could help war-torn CAR regain stability The CAR, home to around six million people, is a chronically unstable state located at the crossroads of diverse ethnic and linguistic groups in Central Africa. One of the last regions of Sub-Saharan Africa to integrate into the global economy, the CAR began engaging in global trade networks around the early 1700s, first by participating in the global trade of slaves. In 1903, the CAR was established as the French Colony of Ubangi-Shari, modeled after the Belgian Congo. France then delegate control of the territory to private corporations, which exploited the land's resources for rubber and ivory. Despite France banning the domestic slave trade in the 1910s, forced labor continued under these companies. Ubangui-Shari gained independence as the Central African Republic in 1960, but it was almost immediately racked with power struggles following the death of independence leader and unifier Barthelemy Boganda just six months before the formal recognition of the CAR's independence. Since then, CAR's political history has been marred by very brief periods of democratization that are immediately followed by military coups and democratic backsliding. The first of these was in 1966, which saw military leader Jean-Bedel Bokassa, who overthew the previous president and ruled for over a decade, including for nearly three years as the self-declared emperor of the Central African Empire. His regime was characterized by widespread corruption, a harsh intolerance for political dissent and massive economic mismanagement, which all led to his overthrow in 1979 following massive student protests and French-backed coup that saw the fledgling empire revert to the CAR. By 2013, the country had experienced its fifth coup, following Bozize's ouster by the Seleka alliance, which led to widespread abuses by the Seleka group and the formation of local, Christian-majority self-defense groups known as the anti-Balaka (anti-machete), many of whom have also committed human rights abuses against the CAR's Muslim minority. The conflict has thus become increasingly ethnoreligious, focusing more on identity than religious ideology. In 2016, Faustin-Archange Touadera was elected president and reelected with strong popular support in 2020 after he brokered a 2019 peace agreement between his government and major armed factions, which had limited impact and allowed these rebel groups to maintain control over significant portions of the country. Touadera also proposed a new constitution in 2023 which removed term limits for presidents, allowing him to indefinitely extend his rule. Watch this video discussing the Russian Wagner Group private military company's participation in peacekeeping efforts in Africa. This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Russia accuses U.S. of expanding biological weapons research in Africa. Russia says countries that join BRICS can't participate in unilateral sanctions. Russia considers stationing ballistic missiles south of the US border after declaring Mexico a military ally. Russia and China now conducting 90% of financial settlement transactions in national currencies once the new BRICS currency arrives, it's GAME OVER for the U.S. dollar. Russia sends another shipment of FREE WHEAT to help address food insecurity in Mali, Africa. Sources include: RT.com CIA.gov Brighteon.com Terrorism expert Greg Barton says the heightened threat level puts Australians on notice, but there is a lot the public has not been told. Greg Barton, an expert in terrorism and violent extremism, suggested there was a lot missing from the announcement made by Prime Minister Albanese and ASIO this week. Source: Getty/The Project This week the country's terror threat level was increased from possible to probable by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the country's intelligence agency ASIO, and although a lot was said in the press conference announcing the change, it's the detail withheld that is likely to be of most concern. Greg Barton, an expert in terrorism and violent extremism, told Yahoo News the information released was just a little peek behind the curtain, and there's still a lot we don't know about the updated threat. "There's always a whole lot of stuff that isn't said, and can't be said," Professor Barton from Deakin University explained. The last time Australia's terror threat level was at 'probable' was 10 years ago when the "Islamic State had declared its caliphate" and tensions were rising amid its growing influence, he explained. "It stayed at that level for eight years so that broadly tells you something about where we are at," Barton said. Australia's threat level was recently moved from the second to the third tier out of a possible five meaning security intelligence has identified a heightened risk of terror, or planning of terror, within the next 12 months. ASIO boss Mike Burgess (centre) said Australias security environment was very different to when the terror threat level was raised a decade ago. Picture: NewsWire / Joseph Olbrycht-Palmer ASIO's chief Mike Burgess attributed this risk not to any one specific thing but to several, including the war in Gaza, which has "fuelled grievances" and "exacerbated division" in Australia, as well as tension in the Middle East and the rise in conspiracy theories, making Aussies more polarised. "More Australians are embracing a more diverse range of extreme ideologies and more Australians are willing to use violence to advance their cause," Burgess said at the press conference on Monday. Why we are only told limited information, security expert explains ASIO won't want to publicly disclose sensitive information or sources about the intelligence it has obtained, as doing so can jeopardise security, Barton said. However, flagging it to the nation helps Aussies "take notice" and "look out for problems" in public places. "It's a reminder that if we're out and about and see something that concerns us," he said. Examples of suspicious behaviour may include,"somebody [walking] away from a suitcase in a crowded place, somebody acting strangely, moving in the back of a crowd," he said. The advice to Aussies, if spotted, is to "speak up and let somebody know." Triple-0 is the best place to report any suspicious behaviour. The war in Gaza has attributed to heightened tension and divide in Australia, Burgess explained. Source: Getty ASIO tells Aussies to 'watch your words' After the announcement on Monday, the ASIO chief renewed calls for every Aussie to "watch your words" regardless of whether they're a politician debating in parliament or a member of the public debating an idea online, as it can spread misinformation or further exacerbate tension. It's a warning Barton has echoed too. "We've had quite a bit of that in Australia, demonising certain groups, using language which really has elements of hate speech in it. It's not just unpleasant and nasty, it can lead to real violence," he said. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Senior U.S. State Department official says India will NEVER be an ally of America A senior official in the U.S. Department of State has remarked that India will never be an ally of the United States U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell made this pronouncement during a July 30 hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He told senators that India "will never be a formal ally or partner in the U.S.," but quickly added that New Delhi is "probably the most important relationship for the U.S. to get right." Campbell emphasized that maintaining good relations with India is strategically important noting that the Indian diaspora in the U.S. is a powerful connection. "It doesn't mean that we cannot have the strongest of possible relationships as allied nations on the global stage," he said. The second-highest official at the State Department highlighted India's desire to be an independent state. "The hardest thing to keep in mind is that India is also a great power," he told the senators. "It has its own beliefs, its own interests." Campbell also lauded New Delhi's efforts to "play a responsible role globally," and shared his expectation of India to engage more directly in Ukraine. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Russia last month, holding discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin on a myriad of issues in what he described as a "homely atmosphere." The Indian leader later said his dialogue with Putin yielded "very interesting ideas" and "completely new views." However, Modi's visit to Russia didn't sit well with the West. The White House was reportedly "frustrated" at the Indian prime minister's visit to Moscow, as it coincided with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) summit in Washington, D.C. coinciding with the group's 75th anniversary. Washington pissed off by close Moscow-New Delhi ties According to Russia Today (RT), "India has resisted Western pressure to distance itself from Moscow since the start of the Ukraine conflict, citing its long-standing relationship with Russia." New Delhi has responded to criticism from Washington and its allies, stressing the need to maintain its strategic autonomy. Following his trip to Russia, Modi is also reportedly planning a visit to Kyiv later this month. Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said on July 20 that there would be "more contact" between New Delhi and Kyiv, not just with Moscow. The Khmer Times reported that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky did not take too kindly to news of Modi's two-day visit to Russia. The comedian-turned-president took to X to issue his denouncement, calling the move a "huge disappointment" and a "devastating blow to peace." New Delhi sought clarification over Zelensky's remarks, while the Kremlin maintained that the Ukrainian leader "lacks legitimacy," the outlet added. Aside from Campbell, other U.S. officials reacted to Modi's visit to Russia. Eric Garcetti, U.S. ambassador to Russia, reacted to the trip without mentioning Moscow. According to the ambassador, there was "no such a thing as strategic autonomy" something Modi claimed he was maintaining during his visit. Michael Kugleman, director of The Wilson Center's South Asia Institute, gave an alternative explanation as to why the U.S. is incensed with Modi's visit to Russia. "[Washington] does not want its allies and partners engaging with, much less embracing, Putin," he said. (Related: Vladimir Putin's Russia: Perfect foil to the Anglo-American Axis and their New World 'Order.') Kugelman continued that the U.S. worries about New Delhi's continued engagement with Moscow "because of all the Russian military equipment and technology in the Indian defense sector at a time when there is an increasing supply of sensitive U.S. defense equipment and technology flowing into that same sector." Such a development, he continued, has "problematic" national security implications for Washington. Watch this video about India buying more Russian oil. This video is from the InfoWarSSideBand channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Russia to increase oil supplies to India under new deal. Russian political scientist warns: The world is "on the edge of an abyss." India joins Russia's SPFS banking payments system another death blow to the dollar and Western money dominance. Sources include: RT.com KhmerTimesKH.com Brighteon.com Swiss government kidnaps child and threatens parents with jail time for opposing transgender mutilation A Swiss court has ruled that a couple who was forcibly separated from their teenage daughter in Switzerland because they objected to her undergoing transgender surgery must supply the documents she needs to facilitate a legal sex change. The parents, who responded to their daughters mental health struggles by proving her with mental healthcare and are being unfairly targeted by the government, are appealing the order and seeking the reinstatement of their parental rights and a reunion with their daughter. The girl, who is now 16, has been separated from her parents for more than a year via court order. She has been living in a government youth shelter, and their access to her is regulated by the government. Her father stated: We are deeply saddened that this nightmare situation continues. Not only has the state separated us from our daughter because we objected to her transition, but we are now being threatened with criminal charges if we do not aid in her legal transition by handing over legal documents. In other words, the authorities kidnapped a child and are threatening to toss her parents in jail simply because they are looking out for her health by opposing transgender mutilation. A legal transition would pave the way for medical interventions that cannot be undone, such as mutilating surgery and the use of cross-sex hormones. The parents explained in a video, which has since gone viral and attracted more than a million views, how their daughter told them near the end of the pandemic that she thought she was a boy. Acknowledging that she had been going through a difficult period in her life, they agreed to discuss the matter with doctors. They said that a nurse at a Geneva hospital presented her with a gender unicorn that they used to determine that she should be treated as a boy by the hospital. They were informed that she needed to take puberty blockers; her parents opted to seek mental healthcare instead. However, her school also got in on the act, with teachers and administrators beginning to call her by a male name. We were very clear with the school, that we did not believe it was up to the school to socially transition our daughter. We learned that the school psychologist was getting in and was feeding my daughter with materials, putting her in contact with Le Refuge." The transgender advocacy organization Le Refuge not only cheered the girl along in her quest but also convinced her that a psychotherapist she had been seeing was transphobic and that she should end treatment. The Swiss Child Protection agency then brought a case against the girls parents in the Swiss court system with support from her school. Girl's parents are only trying to protect her Her parents said they cant believe we live in a society where your child can be taken away from you simply for trying to protect her. We want our daughter back home. We love her and we miss her. The video attracted the attention of Tesla and X owner Elon Musk, who noted: Same thing is happening in California. Its horrifying that the government is insisting it is acting in the girls best interests by separating her from her loving parents at a crucial time in her development, setting her up for a lifetime of treatment with drugs and mutilation that is completely irreversible and may render her infertile. A lawyer for the girls family, Dr. Felix Boellmann of the Alliance Defending Freedom, stated: No society can claim to be free if parents can lose their daughter solely for affirming biological reality. Sources for this article include: Expose-News.com Christian.org.uk Texas rancher sues DHS over massive flood of illegal immigrants passing through his property A Texas rancher and a Kinney County sheriff have filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) due to unprecedented levels of illegal immigration under its watch The lawsuit, filed by the Immigration Reform Law Institute (IRLI) on behalf of Michael Vickers, a veterinarian and owner of a 1,000-acre ranch in Brooks County, seeks to stop the border policies of the administration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. The lawsuit, which also includes Atascosa County and Kinney County and the latter's sheriff, Brad Coe, alleges that the White House's policies have intentionally undermined border security to allow a surge of illegal immigrants into the United States. "By this time, it is glaringly obvious to all that the Biden administration has deliberately crashed border security in order to flood the country with as many illegal aliens as possible," IRLI executive director Dale Wilcox said. "This is no mere policy failure, or just a violation of statutes, but flagrant disobedience to the Constitution." The case specifically highlighted the use of parole to admit nearly 1.2 million migrants since 2023. It asserted that illegal aliens frequently damage the fences and gates of Vickers' ranch, leading to over $50,000 in additional repair costs since 2021. Vickers also incurred expenses for mitigating migrants' environmental damages, which compromised livestock, food and water sources. "Aliens also deposit tons of trash and litter as they traverse Plaintiffs ranch, which compromises food and water sources for livestock. For instance, Plaintiff Vickers has autopsied cows with their rumen (large stomach) impacted with plastic bags and trash. Cattle also escape through cut fences and gates torn down by illegal aliens," the lawsuit stated. (Related: Violent crime increases in remote parts of Arizona as illegal "fighting-age males" continue to enter undetected.) Moreover, the lawsuit stressed the security threat for Vickers and his wife, who have had to rely on dogs for protection against illegal aliens, including members of criminal gangs like MS-13, Puro Tango Blast, Hermanos de Pistoleros Latinos and the Mexican Mafia. The lawsuit also stated that Vickers "must always be armed with a pistol and rifle in order to feel safe due to the presence of criminal groups facilitating illegal migration." Another Texas rancher earlier called Biden and Mayorkas TRAITORS over failed border security Earlier this year, another Texas rancher named Wayne Knight called Biden and DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas "traitors" for the same reason. Knight was interviewed by Fox News correspondent Lawrence Jones from Eagle Pass, Texas. They witnessed a military-aged man scaling a fence topped with razor wire using discarded clothing to navigate sharp barriers with minimal injuries. "This is incredible," Knight said. "And I see the same thing on the ranch. All the trash and the debris and the damage. I see that and I'm 20 miles south of here and I see the same thing there as what you're seeing here." In frustration, Knight did not mince a word when Jones asked what message he would send to Mayorkas. "That he's a traitor. He's an absolute traitor," Knight said. "He lies under oath. He says that the border is secure. It's not. He took an oath to protect us, and he's not doing it The whole administration is the same way. Even our president, the president of the United States, I call him a traitor too." Jones also asked Knight about his views on Biden's attempt to sue Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, who has led efforts to allow Texas police officers to arrest and jail illegal immigrants for violating immigration laws. "It's proof that he doesn't care," Knight said of the president. "It's crazy. Our governor is trying to protect us and take care of us here on our own homeland. But yet our federal government is going to try to keep him from doing it? Treason." Furthermore, Knight argued that the Biden-Harris administration's handling of the border crisis is just driven by political motives. "It doesn't take a rocket scientist to know that it's nothing but a vote," Knight told Jones. "He claims he's going to give all this stuff, and they're going to praise him, so they're going to vote for him." Visit Migrants.news for more stories like this. Watch the following video about "Texas has bused over 119,700 illegal immigrants to sanctuary cities across the country." This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Ohio faces influx of Mauritanian migrants, thanks to instructions for illegal entry posted on social media. Study finds immigration to the American South is far outpacing migrant movement into other U.S. regions. Denver publishes guide on how other cities can turn themselves into migrant sanctuaries using taxpayer dollars. Sen. Elizabeth Warren: Kamala Harris will forge pathway to citizenship for MILLIONS of illegal immigrants. Democrat sanctuary cities are BUSING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS OUT of their areas. Sources include: Breitbart.com MSN.com Brighteon.com Missouri AG Andrew Bailey: Protect the First Amendment by disallowing Big Tech-Big Government collusion To make sure government censorship is prevented and free speech is bolstered, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey proposes the clear separation of Big Tech and Big Government meaning no collusion of the two entities will be allowed to suppress the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. Bailey pointed out that the ruling on the Missouri v. Biden case, which reached the Supreme Court as Murthy v. Missouri, already indicated that "government coerced censorship" has been proven. In 2022, then-Missouri Attorney General and now Senator Eric Schmitt, along with his Louisiana counterpart at the time, filed the lawsuit alleging that government agencies' discussions with social media platforms about content moderation suppress free speech. Now, the case has been sent back to a lower court and Bailey suggests using this to fully expose "that vast Censorship Enterprise." "What the Supreme Court said was that the government absolutely coerced Big Tech social media into silencing American voices in violation of the First Amendment, but we need more evidence to prove that that censorship extended beyond the year 2021. Guess what? Were going back to the trial court. We're going to find it," Bailey said. Before the SCOTUS decision, the watchdog Media Research Center found that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Department of State, Department of Justice, Department of Defense, Department of Health and Human Services, National Science Foundation and the Department of the Treasury have all pushed for various forms of censorship. "There is a shocking degree of breadth and coordination within the Biden administration to use our tax dollars against us. We have never seen this kind of effort to silence regular, everyday Americans," MRC Free Speech America Vice President Dan Schneider told Fox News Digital. Schneider further said that the administration of President Joe Biden's justification for its censorship initiative is astonishing. He added that Biden's lawyers claimed that the federal government has a First Amendment right to censor citizens in court documents and oral arguments before the Supreme Court. "This inversion of the Constitution threatens the very essence of our democracy," he warned. Bailey to sue Biden for flying illegal immigrants to Missouri Apart from censorship concerns, the MO-AG is also working on making the Biden administration pay for "inviting" illegal immigrants and illegally transferring them to his state. According to Fox News, Bailey is filing a lawsuit against President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for refusing to turn over documents related to flying illegal immigrants into Missouri. The lawsuit also indicated that the DHS has intentionally delayed responding to his request for the documents about the flights to Missouri. "We have reason to believe they are deliberately flying illegal aliens from the border into our cities. Not on my watch," Bailey wrote on X. He also indicated in the lawsuit that the lack of transparency violates the spirit and the letter of FOIA, which states that an agency shall withhold information only when the agency 'reasonably foresees that disclosure would harm an interest protected by an exemption' or if 'disclosure is prohibited by law.'" The AG pointed out that the transportation of asylum seekers into his state is a matter of public concern. The citizens of Missouri have a right to know the facts about these alleged activities, he added. He also said in the suit that DHS did not provide any notice that its response and/or production of documents would be delayed due to "unusual circumstances." The agency also failed to inform his office of the timeline for when the responsive records will be produced. "Once again, the Biden Administration is trying to stonewall and circumvent every aspect of the law to hide information from Americans," Bailey alleged. "Their most recent refusal to provide the truth about the flying of illegal immigrants into Missouri is just the tip of the iceberg." (Related: Bailey, 6 other AGs sue Bidens HHS for forcing healthcare providers to perform genital mutilations.) BigGovernment.news has more stories about the government's tough censorship yet "weak" illegal immigration policies. Watch the video below that talks about Big Tech censoring content about former Donald Trump's assassination. This video is from the Trending News channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Missouri AG files lawsuit against State of New York over outrageous, lawless prosecution of Donald J. Trump. Actual collusion? Missouri AG accuses Biden DOJ of coordinating with Trump prosecutors. Sources include: ReclaimTheNet.org JustTheNews.com FoxNews.com NYPost.com Brighteon.com Biden admin agrees to forego DEATH PENALTY in PLEA DEAL with 9/11 conspirators, including mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed Three of the five 9/11 plotters currently imprisoned in Guantanamo Bay, including mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, have reached a plea agreement with prosecutors. The trial of the five 9/11 conspirators currently in custody in Guantanamo Bay has been stuck in endless legal delays for nearly a decade. While the Department of Defense, which is overseeing all pre-trial arrangements, has not made public any specific terms and conditions in the plea deals, it is widely believed that the plea deal will allow Mohammed and two other conspirators to avoid the death penalty in exchange for pleading guilty to all charges. Gary B. Sowards, the lead attorney for Mohammed, confirmed this in a statement to the media, noting that the essence of the agreement means prosecutors will not seek the death penalty but will instead allow Mohammed and the two others who bargained with the government to serve life in prison. The other two 9/11 conspirators are Walid Muhammad Salih Mubarak Bin Attash and Mustafa Ahmed Adam al-Hawsawi. The first three are expected to enter their pleas at the military commission at Guantanamo Bay within a week. Mohammed, Attash and al-Hawsawi have been charged with providing training, financial support and other assistance to the 19 terrorists who hijacked passenger airplanes and crashed them into the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania with the latter's intended target being either the Capitol or the White House on Sept. 11, 2001. Authorities point to Mohammed as one of the prime masterminds of the 9/11 attacks, along with Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden. Intelligence gathered since the attacks even indicates that Mohammed may have been the one to suggest to Bin Laden to use passenger aircraft as weapons. Republicans alarmed by Biden admin's willingness to negotiate with 9/11 terrorists The fact that the administration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris is willing to negotiate with the terrorists regarding their sentences has led to strong condemnation from the Republican Party. (Related: Whistleblowers claim CIA recruited patsy hijackers for 9/11, hid truth from FBI.) "This plea deal with terrorists including Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the mastermind of the 9/11 attacks that killed thousands of Americans is a revolting abdication of the government's responsibility to defend America and provide justice," said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY). "The Biden-Harris Department of Justice cut a deal with Al Qaeda terrorist Khalid Sheikh Mohammed to avoid the death penalty," said Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH), former President Donald Trump's running mate for the White House. "Now, as someone who enlisted in the Marines to serve after 9/11, that is ridiculous. But it's not surprising." "Twenty-three years ago, America watched in horror as thousands of innocent Americans died. America mourned for weeks afterward as first responders sifted through the ashes at Ground Zero, at the Pentagon and at the crash site in Shanksville," wrote House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA). "For more than two decades, the families of those murdered by these terrorists have waited for justice. This plea deal is a slap in the face of those families. They deserved better from the Biden-Harris administration." Families of 9/11 victims horrified by plea deal The families of the 9/11 victims were the first to be notified that the government had reached a plea deal, after they were sent a letter from Rear Adm. Aaron Rugh, the chief prosecutor. Along with pleading guilty to all charges, including the murder of nearly 3,000 people, they have agreed to respond to further interrogation from family members of 9/11 victims "regarding their roles and reasons for conducting" the attacks. The three terrorists will submit their responses to the families within 90 days of receiving the queries. Brett Eagleston, president of 9/11 Justice, said his group is "deeply troubled by these plea deals," adding that the they are not bothered by the decision to avoid the death penalty, but rather the lack of transparency regarding the whole arrangement. "These plea deals should not perpetuate a system of closed-door agreements where crucial information is hidden without giving the families of the victims the chance to learn the full truth," said Eagleston. Terry Strada, national chairperson of a group of families of victims called 9/11 Families United, called the three plotters "cowards" and invoked the memory of those they killed as well as the relatives who have died while awaiting justice. "They were cowards when they planned the attack," she said. "And they're cowards today." While Strada notes that many families just want to see the men admit guilt, many others want them to face trial proceedings. "For me personally, I wanted to see a trial," she said. "And they just took away the justice I was expecting a trial and the punishment." Meanwhile, other relatives of family members have taken in the news with quiet resignation, including Patrick White, cousin of Louis Nacke II, a passenger on United 93 the flight where passengers attempted to take back control of the plane from the hijackers, causing it to crash in Shanksville rather than into either the White House or the Capitol building. "I've made my peace with it," said White, who added that "life in prison along with an admission of guilt that they were complicit in [the] murder of loved ones" was what he was hoping would come out of the trials anyway. Watch this clip from Newsmax featuring Bernard Kerik, who served as New York City's police commissioner during 9/11, discussing how the attack's plotters should not be immune to death penalty sentences. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Day before Trump assassination attempt, Austin Private Wealth reported MASSIVE short bet on $DJT and $RUM stocks similar to stock bets placed right before 9/11. Trump promises release of ALL classified files on JFK, 9/11, Epstein if he wins second White House term. GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy on 9/11 terror attacks: I don't believe the government has told us the truth. Bombshell court filing claims that some 9/11 hijackers were CIA assets. Biden fights 9/11 victims in court to protect Taliban cash. Sources include: ZeroHedge.com ABCNews.go.com APNews.com FoxNews.com Brighteon.com Financial system IMPLODING at increasing speed as world war, election loom The media is scrambling for excuses to explain away the stock market cratering event that occurred on August 5. America woke up to blood-red U.S. markets on Monday after Asian and European markets plummeted hours earlier. We are told that "weak economic data last week" is to blame, as is "Friday's soft U.S. payrolls report" as if anything that happens with the money system is based on "data" and "reports." As the markets were plummeting, Joe Biden, who is still said to be president, took to X to brag about how many billions of dollars' worth of student loans he has written off in recent years. Billionaire stock tycoon Warren Buffett, 93, sold 50 percent of his fund's Apple stock just before Black Monday, though he still reportedly lost $15 billion from his immense fortune due to the crash. The powers that be (TPTB) are finally using the word recession to describe the situation, though the truth is that things are already far past that stage if you peel back the layers. (Related: Did you know that Germany is in a death spiral due to its failed "green economic miracle" escapades?) Wall Street "fear gauge" jumps to highest level since covid The last time the U.S. stock market saw carnage this dramatic was in early 2020 right when the government was unleashing the Wuhan coronavirus (covid-19) "pandemic." Stocks plummeted under Donald Trump in early 2020 right before TPTB forced everyone to become a recluse while mandating that the public wear a mask and live in fear. Then came all the "pandemic" measures, which propped the markets right back up and beyond where they started. The CBOE Volatility Index, also known as VIX, reached its highest level in four years on Monday, the last time it was this high being when TPTB shut down the entire economy due to "covid." "Since early 2020, the VIX has been stable never closing above 40," one media outlet reported. "The VIX jumped to a high of 65.73, up about 42 points from its close on Friday." Joe Tigay, a portfolio manager at the Rational Equity Armor Fund, commented that he felt perplexed at what he saw occur with the markets on Monday. "This is very, very unusual," he said. "It was just too long of a period where stocks were going up and there was just the assumption that all they have to do is just wait, and then they'll go higher at some point. At some point that snaps out of reality." Other financial workers are out there trying to quell fears of a much greater crash to come by encouraging people to scrape up their pennies and "buy the dip," as if the lines will eventually go right back up and beyond like they usually do. One of the companies that saw its stock plummet on Monday was Google, which lost a major federal antitrust lawsuit. The world now knows that Google used illegal practices to maintain a search engine monopoly in violation of the law. Conveniently for Wall Street crooks, all major U.S. brokerages went down at the same time in Monday pre-trading, effectively stopping retail investors from selling and taking profits. "Ironic how companies go 'down' when the markets soar or decline sharply," one person wrote on X about how obvious the scam truly is. "Very telling to how they feel about the people." "I'm sure the average American will take the hit while the elites just keep rolling." How much longer will it be before Americans are standing in bread lines spending an entire day's wages on a single loaf? Find out more at Collapse.news. Sources for this article include: DailyMail.co.uk NaturalNews.com X.com Google manipulates essential auto-suggest results to memory-hole Trump assassination attempt Tech giant Google has allegedly been suppressing relevant results related to the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump in its autosuggest feature. The purpose is to "kill" the issue by decreasing accessibility to information about the incident as well as the investigation into the matter. In this connection, Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS), a permanent Subcommittee on Investigations member, has announced that he is leading a probe into efforts to "memory-hole" one of the most serious incidents in American politics in decades an obvious attempt of Big Tech and Big Government in colluding to roll out censorship of conservatives. Marshall wrote Sundar Pichai, Chief Executive Officer of Google, demanding answers for allegations, including the platform turning into "a propaganda wing of the Biden-Harris Administration and the radical Left." He also requested a full investigation and Congressional hearing on Google's "censorship and blatant bias." "Google's failure to provide suggestions related to the assassination attempt against President Trump on July 13, 2024, as part of its search function is yet another example of censorship against conservative voices and violates the intent of Section 230," the senator opened the letter. "Omitting suggestions to the most obvious and recent victim of an assassination attempt shows a willful discrimination against President Trump and users of your search engine." He also commented on Google's claim that "no manual action was taken to effectuate these results," arguing that the clarification is "woefully inadequate, disingenuous and misleading." He cited the tech firm saying they have a policy of "protections against autocomplete predictions associated with political violence." However, people searching for "failed assassination attempt" got suggested results concerning former presidents Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford as well as Bob Marley and even Archduke Ferdinand but not Trump. According to the lawmaker, if the autocomplete function truly reflects the recent searches completed on Google, the self-learning algorithms should have easily adjusted their autocomplete function during a massive increase in search queries over the last two weeks. Marshall added that if the search engine would rather want to become a publishing firm or editor, Congress could then regulate accordingly by removing the sacred Section 230 protections that the firm has long used to silence conservative voices. "We've known Big Tech has propped up the Biden Crime Family and the Clintons and is now doing Kamala Harris' bidding, but this week, they have shown there truly is no low they won't go to, including censoring the assassination attempt of President Trump," he added. "This is election interference there must be accountability." "Given your firm's repeated behavior, my colleagues and I will be initiating an investigation into Google's censorship, bias and constricting the free flow of information," he said. "Furthermore, as a member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), I will do everything in my power to encourage fellow Committee members to force Google to testify under oath regarding these practices. Apart from the suppression of information, Google seemed to have a different "campaign strategy" leaning towards the Democrats. On Wednesday, tech magnate Elon Musk said a Google search for "Trump rally" instead brought up top results of Vice President Kamala Harris. Meanwhile, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) spoke about "autocomplete irregularities" on Google and wants the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to provide any documents that might show another case of collusion has happened, this time around the attempted assassination. Trump: Google has to be careful or Congress will shut it down for its censorship Following the controversial allegation, former President Donald Trump suggested that Congress could close down Google for being biased and censoring content, especially about the recent threat on his life. Speaking at "Mornings With Maria Bartiromo," Trump said Google could face additional congressional scrutiny and possibly closure for how it handled political issues. "Google has been very bad. They've been very irresponsible. And I have a feeling that Google is going to be close to shut down because I don't think Congress is going to take it. I really don't think so," Trump said. "Google has to be careful." (Related: Google helping Democrats by BANNING Trump campaign ad showing how life is worse under Biden.) The tech firm reportedly resolved the "autocomplete issue" on the Trump assassination early Wednesday, denying further that they have performed censorship on the specific information in the first place. "Autocomplete wasn't providing predictions for queries about the assassination attempt against former President Trump. That's because it has built-in protections related to political violence and those systems were out of date," Google Communications wrote on X. "After the horrific events in Butler, PA, those predicted queries should have appeared but didn't. Once the issue was flagged, we started working on improvements, and they're already rolling out." Over the past few days, some people on X have posted claims that Search is censoring or banning particular terms. Thats not happening, and we want to set the record straight. The posts relate to our Autocomplete feature, which predicts queries to save you time. Autocomplete Google Communications (@Google_Comms) July 30, 2024 The former POTUS also confirmed to Bartiromo that Google has not called and apologized to him. Follow Censorship.news to read more about how Big Tech and Big Government conspire to suppress free speech. Sources for this article include: ReclaimTheNet.org Marshall.Senate.gov FoxBusiness.com DailyCaller.com Seymour Hersh: Obama OUSTED Biden with threat to invoke 25th Amendment Former President Barack Obama reportedly led a group of top Democrats to oust incumbent President Joe Biden, even threatening to invoke the 25th Amendment against him. Veteran investigative reporter Seymour Hersh disclosed this development, citing several sources including "a senior official in Washington." This official reportedly helped him "fashion an account of a White House in complete disarray." According to Hersh, Obama called Biden three days after the 81-year-old incumbent president suffered a stroke in Las Vegas. This July 17 medical emergency was attested to by multiple law enforcement sources, who were ordered to transport Biden to the University Medical Center in Nevada. While this emergency lasted a short time, the president's doctors determined he could be quickly flown back to his home state of Delaware. Hersh's sources asserted that during the July 20 call, Obama told Biden he had the approval of Vice President Kamala Harris to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove him from office due to his inability to fulfill the duties of the presidency. This followed the dismal June 27 presidential debate hosted by CNN, where Biden's mental decline was on display for the world to see. Despite this, Biden publicly refused to entertain the idea of stepping aside prompting the warning. "Obama called Biden after breakfast [on July 20] and said, 'Here's the deal. We have Kamala's approval to invoke the 25th Amendment,'" Hersh wrote. He added that the move also had the approval of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY). Hersh, who earlier revealed the West's role in the sabotage of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, said Obama did not plan on immediately endorsing Harris. Instead, Obama supported the institution of a primary-like process to determine a new nominee. Hersh: Obama had another candidate in mind "[Obama] had an agenda, and he wanted to seek it through to the end. He wanted to have control over who would be elected," Hersh continued. "This is called a coup." Things came to a head when Biden announced his decision to drop out of the presidential race on July 21. On the same day, he endorsed Harris to replace him as the Democratic Party's presidential nominee something the sources described as a "rogue effort" and a "f**k you then" move toward Obama. Hersh's sources also disclosed that Obama wasn't happy with the move. The 44th president made no mention of Harris in a lengthy statement he released following Biden's announcement. Steve Watson of Modernity News pointed out that Hersh's revelations dovetail with reports from the New York Post. According to the tabloid, sources close to Biden say Obama doesn't believe Harris can beat former President Donald Trump. The same sources also mentioned that Obama would like to see U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) throw his hat in the ring. According to Hersh, "it was agreed that if the poll [numbers] did not continue to show [Harris] gaining traction, other options would be considered including an open convention." The veteran journalist also added that the Democratic Party's top brass feels that "she had better perform" to be named as the nominee. Watson pointed out that this hesitation led to a "weird and seemingly thrown together" endorsement from the Obama couple. The Democratic former president endorsed Harris on July 26, according to a report by POLITICO. (Related: Obamas endorse Kamala Harris presidential bid.) "Obama's delay was intentional, a person familiar with his thinking said, noting that the former president didn't want to interject with an endorsement while the party decided its process for determining its nominee," the outlet added. This matched with Hersh's revelation of Obama preferring an open convention to name the party's replacement for Biden. Head over to BarackObama.news for similar stories. Watch this clip from "TruNews" about a poll finding that Biden voters support invoking the 25th Amendment against the incumbent. This video is from the TruNews channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Kamala Harris secures endorsements from top Democrats except Barack Obama. Obama refrains from endorsing Kamala Harris in his statement about Bidens withdrawal. Majority of Biden voters would approve of activating the 25th Amendment to remove him from office. Biden's gaffes and repeated stumbles spur nervous talks about the 25TH Amendment and Kamala taking over. Group asks House Speaker to investigate whether Democrats used 25th Amendment threat to force Biden out of presidential race. Sources include: Modernity.news POLITICO.com Brighteon.com Illegal immigrant ARRESTED for sexually assaulting 13-year-old girl in Michigan A 32-year-old illegal immigrant has been arrested for sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl in Shelby, Michigan. Joel Quintana-Dominguez, an illegal immigrant who has been deported from the United States before, was arrested by the Shelby Township Police on July 19 in a Macomb County trailer park while preparing to escape. The Shelby Township Police immediately took him into custody 72 hours after they were notified about his location. (Related: Ecuadorian illegal assaults 13-year-old girl in broad daylight in New York park.) "It appeared that he was packed and his vehicle was in a manner that he was going to be leaving," said Shelby Police Sergeant Kevin Bailey. Quintana-Dominguez now faces three counts of sexual assault involving a girl under the age of 13. His bond has been set at $500,000. However, as the investigation progressed, another victim came forward to the police with additional allegations of sexual abuse against Quintana-Dominguez. "Because of our release that we put out, another victim came in last night and described horrific acts that have occurred. And were investigating those now. And the person also informed us that there's multiple other victims that we're gonna be searching for," said Shelby Township Police Chief Robert Shelide. Authorities are now trying to uncover the full extent of the alleged crimes. Michigan senate nominee blames border policies for "another horrific but entirely preventable tragedy" Former Michigan Rep. Mike Rogers, who is gunning to be the Republican Party's nominee for the Senate elections in the state, could not help but describe the crime as "another horrific and entirely preventable tragedy" in a post on X. "Another horrific and entirely preventable tragedy. Every single state in the union is a border state thanks to Border Czar [Vice President] Kamala Harris. We must secure the border and prevent more tragedies like this in our communities," he posted on July 31. In an interview with the New York Post, Rogers doubled down on his comment, stressing the impact on law-abiding families. "The victims of these crimes are families who are doing all the right things. And were letting these illegals have the run of the show. These people are getting up every day, putting their kids on the bus, trying to earn a living," Rogers said. "Theyve been exposed to all of this by what I argue is an open and dangerous border, and its gonna get more dangerous." Rogers, a former agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, underscored the challenges in tracking illegal immigrants within the United States. "You dont know how many unsolved sexual assaults there are where these guys are just roaming around the country and you cant really find them. Theyre not tethered to anything thats really traceable If you want to hide in the country, you can hide in the country." Head over to InvasionUSA.news for similar stories. Watch Pinal County, Arizona Sheriff Mark Lamb warning that "people who don't love America" are blending in with the gotaways that authorities fail to catch in the clip below. This video is from the GalacticStorm channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Rep. Grothman: DHS monitoring over 600,000 illegals with CRIMINAL RECORDS. Venezuela emptying prisons, CRIMINALS blending in with migrants trying to cross US border. British court BLOCKS deportation of convicted migrant child rapist because "it would harm his mental health." Illegal alien Tennessee soccer coach accused of drugging, raping little boys while FILMING pedophilic crimes. Biden DOJ erases child sex trafficking language from government website after losing track of 85,000 migrant children. Sources include: TheNationalPulse.com MSN.com Brighteon.com Judge rules New Jerseys AR-15 ban is unconstitutional, but upholds state ban on normal-capacity magazines A federal judge has ruled that a New Jersey state law banning the AR-15 is unconstitutional . However, this ruling affirmed the state's ban on normal-capacity magazines. Senior United States District Judge Peter G. Sheridan of the District Court for the District of New Jersey issued a ruling July 30, declaring that the AR-15 rifle is not an "assault firearm," as defined in the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice. He added that the attempt to ban the AR-15 was incompatible with the precedent set by the U.S. Supreme Court. "The AR-15 Provision of the Assault Firearms Law is unconstitutional under Bruen and Heller as to the Colt AR-15 for use of self-defense within the home," Sheridan wrote in a related memorandum mentioning the two cases decided in 2022 and 2008, respectively. Under the 2008 District of Columbia v. Heller decision, the right of Americans to own and maintain firearms in their homes for lawful self-defense is protected under the Second Amendment. The New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen case, meanwhile, set a "historical tradition" test for the right to have guns. As stated by Sheridan, New Jersey's AR-15 ban therefore cannot stand, as it is inconsistent with America's historical tradition of gun regulation by prohibiting a complete class of widely used firearms that are utilized for home defense. "In this court's understanding of Supreme Court precedent, a categorical ban on a class of weapons commonly used for self-defense is unlawful," Sheridan said. (Related: Biden exploits assassination attempt on Trump to call for AR-15, "assault rifle" BAN.) Sheridan, however, refused to extend his determination to about 60 other guns defined under New Jersey law as "assault firearms," as the court had only been fully informed on the AR-15 and none of the other firearms on the restricted list. "Given the variety of firearms regulated in the Assault Firearms Law and the nuances that each individual firearm presents, the Court's analysis of the Assault Firearms Law is limited to the firearm with which the Court has been provided the most information: the AR-15," Sheridan stated. Meanwhile, Sheridan upheld the state's ban on large-capacity magazines (LCMs), or magazines that can carry more than 10 rounds of ammunition. The only way people can obtain them is if they have registered an "assault firearm" in line with state law and use the said LCM in relation to approved competitive shooting matches. The judge claimed that the LCM ban is unlike the categorical ban on AR-15s due to the law not restricting the number of magazines an individual can own, just their capacity. He also reasoned that the "unprecedented rapidity and damage of mass shootings support a nuanced reading" of the historical analogs under the Supreme Court's Bruen decision. Sheridan ruled that the LCM ban is constitutional and issued a 30-day stay on his decision, meaning the AR-15 ban stays temporarily in effect. New Jersey residents Mark Cheeseman and Timothy Connelly, along with gun rights advocacy group Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) have filed a notice of appeal. The FPC declared in a statement that the appeal focuses on "legal deficiencies" in the judge's opinion and that the motion seeks the "full relief" that was initially requested from the district court, which included a request to revoke the "assault firearm" restriction as it applied to the list of 60-plus firearms and other guns that are "substantially similar." "Bans on so-called 'assault weapons' are immoral and unconstitutional. FPC will continue to fight forward until all of these bans are eliminated throughout the United States," FPC President Brandon Combs said in a July 30 statement. Plaintiff calls Sheridan's decision an "unusual ruling" The Association of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol Clubs, one of the plaintiffs in the case, released a statement calling the decision an "unusual ruling." "While the decision is groundbreaking in that it invalidates parts of New Jersey's assault firearms law, it mistakenly limits that ruling to the 'Colt AR-15' only, even though the lawsuit clearly challenges the law as to ALL assault firearms," the statement reads. "Also, the ruling curiously upholds New Jersey's magazine ban while simultaneously invalidating parts of the assault firearm law." New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin, one of the defendants in the case, said in a statement that he also plans to appeal the part of the ruling that declares the AR-15 ban unconstitutional while lauding the other areas of the ruling. "I am disappointed that the district court has held that individuals have a constitutional right to possess the Colt AR-15. Today's decision weaponizes the Second Amendment to undermine public safety," Platkin said. "The AR-15 is an instrument designed for warfare that inflicts catastrophic mass injuries and is the weapon of choice for the epidemic of mass shootings that have ravaged so many communities across this nation." Platkin mentioned that the court backed the LCM ban and didn't permit people to possess any other guns classified as "assault firearms." Follow Guns.news for more stories about firearms in America and the Second Amendment. Watch the video below about President Joe Biden calling for an assault weapons ban after the conviction of his son Hunter. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Texas judge blocks Biden administration's unlawful ban on forced reset triggers. Attention Democrat politicians: Do you still want to ban long guns, or do you like them now, since one was just used for a Trump assassination attempt? Anti-gun Supreme Court Justice Sotomayor's bodyguards shoot alleged carjacker multiple times in self-defense. Huge victory for gun owners as Supreme Court strikes down ATFs bump stock ban as unconstitutional. Pro-gun group: Gun control laws being ABUSED to deprive Trump of his Second Amendment rights. Sources include: ZeroHedge.com FirearmsPolicy.org NewJerseyMonitor.com Brighteon.com An Aussie fly-in, fly-out worker has taken aim at the national airline for rescheduling two dozen of her recent flights all in the space of just months. The FOFO worker has received more than two dozen messages from Qantas with cancelling or postponed her booked flight. Source: getty/supplied A fed-up Aussie FIFO worker has taken aim at Qantas for rescheduling or postponing her flights over 20 times since October last year. The Western Australian-based woman said she regularly flies from Perth to the state's north for work, and also to Sydney, and on both routes her travels were repeatedly disrupted. Speaking to Yahoo News Australia on the condition of anonymity, the FIFO worker said the latest cancellation on July 25 prompted her to tally the number of rescheduled flights she'd been forced to deal with in merely months. She counted 25 flights in total, sharing with Yahoo a screen recording of the messages she received from Qantas informing her of the unwelcome news. Vision shows a text thread on the woman's phone from Qantas, in which dozens of messages are seen informing her that flights were "unfortunately cancelled" and that the airline was "sorry to let you know your flight time has changed". A Qantas frequent flyer has blasted the airline for repeatedly rescheduling over 20 of her flights in just months. Source: Supplied FIFO worker blasts Qantas's flight cancellations "So I counted a total of 25 since October last year," the WA woman told Yahoo. "Not all were cancellations lots were lengthy delays. This is the third week in a row the plane 'had a fault' and they've had to send a new one to site. "It's actually cooked. I only fly Qantas because that is who contracts my company so I have no choice. "It really is so annoying, so many people have had holidays ruined. When you work away from home and you get stuck at work on your time off, it's actually bulls**t." The woman explained sometimes her flights were postponed for several hours and even overnight, compromising her ability to arrive on shift on time. On the other hand, being forcibly stuck at work has also impacted her ability to have downtime between shifts. The Perth-based woman said she's now fed up and wishes she was able to fly with other airlines. Yahoo News Australia has contacted Qantas with regards to the FIFO worker's criticisms and a spokesperson confirmed they were looking into the matter. Aussie airlines' dwindling reputation among travellers Qantas isn't the only Australian airline attracting heat this year over flight cancellations. In January, it was revealed Virgin Australia recorded more than two times as many flight cancellations as both Qantas and Jetstar in the first month of 2024. The January domestic airline on-time performance report, written by the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics, revealed Virgin Australia cancelled 5.4 per cent out of 11,026 domestic flights flown. Qantas and Jetstar cancelled less than 2.5 per cent of their respective 6984 and 8824 flights. In June, Virgin Australia Regional Airlines held the title, recording the highest percentage of cancellations at 7.9 per cent, followed by Skytrans at 5.4 per cent, QantasLink at 3.4 per cent, Qantas at 3.1 per cent, Jetstar at 2.2 per cent, Virgin Australia at 1.7 per cent, Hinterland at 1.5 per cent and Rex Airlines at 1.1 per cent. The Qantas network recorded 79.6 per cent for on time departures while the Virgin Australia network recorded 76.6 per cent. Qantas forced to compensate passengers over cancelled flights In May, Qantas agreed to pay customers affected by recent flight cancellations. The airline admitted it misled people by advertising tickets for tens of thousands of flights it had already decided to cancel. The Flying Kangaroo was also accused of cancelling thousands more flights without promptly telling passengers of its decision. The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) took Qantas to court and the airline will have to shell out $20 million to more than 86,000 customers. The airline was accused of advertising tickets for more than 8,000 flights that had been cancelled and there were a further 10,000 flights between May and July 2022 where ticket holders weren't advised their journey had been cancelled. Qantas admitted the misconduct went on until 26 August, 2023. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. A set up? Liberty University sued by the ACLU for firing male employee who now identifies as trans woman A former employee has sued Liberty University, alleging that he was discriminated against after notifying the schools human resources department that he now identifies as a woman. (Article by Doug Mainwaring republished from LifeSiteNews.com) This week, the leftist American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) announced that it had filed a lawsuit on behalf of trans woman Ellenor Zinski, saying that he was fired in violation of Title VII of the Civil rights Act of 1964. No one should be fired because of who they are but Liberty University made it clear thats exactly why it fired Ellenor, asserted ACLU of Virginia Senior Transgender Rights Attorney Wyatt Rolla. Workplace discrimination against transgender people [sic] is against the law, and its especially telling that Liberty University sees a practicing Christians gender identity as so antithetical to its mission that it was willing to flout the law in order to cast out one of its own. Liberty University officials read a termination notice aloud to Ellenor citing denying biological and chromosomal sex assigned at birth as the basis for her termination, stating a conflict with Libertys Doctrinal Statement that names denial of birth sex by self-identification with a different gender as a sinful act prohibited by God, explained an ACLU statement about the case. Zinski was hired by the university in February 2023, then in July, just a few months later, he sent an email informing the school that he identified as a trans woman, had been undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and intended to legally change his name from Jonathan to Ellenor. As a result, Liberty terminated Zinskis employment because his decision to identify as transgender conflicted with the universitys Doctrinal Statement that names denial of birth sex by self-identification with a different gender as a sinful act prohibited by God, explained the Washington Stands Dan Hart. The fact that Zinski announced his gender transition just a few months after beginning his employment at Liberty University has prompted speculation that, rather than a spontaneous move by Zinski, this might be a part of premeditated strategy to force a transgender discrimination case into the U.S. court system in order to effect change. This looks like a set up to me, observed Tony Perkins, President of the Family Research Council in Washington, D.C. in a Washington Watch YouTube post. Will religious institutions be forced to violate their authentically held, biblically-based beliefs? asked Perkins. Fortunately, the law gives a couple of very strong lines of defense for religious organizations, explained First Liberty Institute Senior Counsel, Stephanie Taub. The first one is in the Constitution, said Taub. And fortunately, weve had a couple of very good decisions from the United States Supreme Court that protects religious schools and their right to hire so-called ministers, or people that are responsible for teaching the faith to the next generation as a part of their religious school. And theres also protections in federal employment discrimination law itself, which gives protections for religious employers to make employment decisions based on religion, continued Taub. But what we see here is we see radical organizations like the ACLU that are trying to chip away at the rights of religious schools and especially Christian schools and their right to actually remain a community of faith that are dedicated to their doctrinal principles. What makes a Christian school a Christian school is its ability to have Christians who adhere to the same doctrinal statements, who are able to work together in a community to achieve a shared mission, explained Taub. What you have here with these kinds of lawsuits is the ACLU trying to force Christian schools to accept and maintain employees who are acting out of step with those doctrinal statements, who are contradicting them, said Taub. This has the potential to interfere with these religious schools and their ability to effectively fulfill their missions. Meg Kilgannon, Family Research Councils senior fellow for Education Studies, confirmed Perkins suspicion that the left is using lawfare against religious institutions. These kinds of efforts seem designed to expand the application of the Bostock decision (a case about employment) in ways that put LGBTQ+ affirmation on a collision course with religious liberties guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution, Kilgannon told the Stand. Read more at: LifeSiteNews.com Philadelphia mayor sparks confusion after post suggesting Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro is Kamala Harris VP Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker posted on her social media accounts during the weekend, appearing to suggest that Vice President Kamala Harris and the Democratic Party have already picked Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro as her running mate, prompting confusion all across America. "Proud to be back with so many leaders from across our region supporting @KamalaHarris for President and @JoshShapiroP for VP!" her handle @PeopleforParker posted on X. The post also included a video with footage of recent press conferences that ended with the message: "Josh Shapiro for Vice President." However, a source close to Parker who spoke anonymously claimed that the post was simply an endorsement and a show of support for Shapiro. "This is not an announcement of anything. This is just the mayor showing her support for a longtime friend who we know is one of the people being considered," the source said. The attached footage in the tweet included local union leaders and elected officials lauding the governor. "I cant think of a better partner [for Harris] than our governor, Josh Shapiro," Parker said in the video. According to Bucks County Commissioner Diane Ellis-Marseglia, who also appeared in the video, she was surprised to see the video posted on Friday. She thought it was fun and agreed with the message promoting Shapiro as vice president. Ellis-Marseglia was involved in a separate pro-Harris ad arranged by the Parker campaign and said the group taped pro-Shapiro content afterward, but she didn't realize it would be used. "We did it as an after-take as kind of a joke," she said. Meanwhile, journalist Ernest Owens claimed he had heard from sources that the post was due to be scheduled for Monday, Aug. 5, but was accidentally published early. Harris is expected to announce her pick for vice presidential running mate by Tuesday, Aug. 6, after conducting weekend interviews with contenders at her Washington home, two sources with knowledge of the matter said. (Related: Kamala Harris expected to introduce running mate at her first rally in Philadelphia on Aug. 6.) The shortlist of potential candidates included six men: four governors, a senator and a cabinet secretary in the White House. Shapiro is considered one of the favorites and has been reportedly vetted by her campaign. He reportedly canceled planned fundraisers in the Hamptons this weekend. "The governor's trip was planned several weeks ago and included several fundraisers for his own campaign committee," spokesperson Manuel Bonder said. "His schedule has changed and he is no longer traveling to the Hamptons this weekend." Shapiro is too focused on his ambitions, PA senator warns Harris An article on Politico recently disclosed that Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) is warning Harris against picking Shapiro to be her running mate because the latter is too focused on his "personal ambitions." Fetterman cited three sources that were familiar with the matter, the news outlet reported. According to the report, Fetterman and Shapiro came into conflict during their service together on Pennsylvania's Board of Pardons regarding second chances and the commutation process for convicts. Fetterman is said to have "full-on, enthusiastic support for Kamala Harris." That source described Fetterman's advisers as giving his "unvarnished assessment" of Shapiro "that is not about policy differences or other public baggage." The governors staff, meanwhile, claimed that Shapiro's history on criminal justice reform is clear. "The governor evaluates every pardon case individually and on its merits and during his time as attorney general, he approved more pardons and commutations than all of his predecessors over the last 25 years, combined," Shapiro spokesperson Will Simons said. "He is proud of his record of delivering meaningful criminal justice reform while making Pennsylvania communities safer." Another issue that is being thrown at Shapiro is his past stance on Israel and Palestine. In the 1993 essay that he wrote for the Campus Times, the student newspaper of the University of Rochester, from which he graduated in 1995, he wrote that "Palestinians will not coexist peacefully because they do not have the capabilities to establish their homeland and make it successful even with the aid of Israel and the United States." Shapiro has been pressured to defend his article. "Since he wrote this piece as a 20-year-old student, Gov. Shapiro has built close, meaningful, informative relationships with many Muslim-American, Arab-American, Palestinian Christian and Jewish community leaders all across Pennsylvania," another Shapiro spokesman Manuel Bonder told Fox News Digital. "The Governor greatly values their perspectives and the experiences he has learned from over the years and as a result, as with many issues, his views on the Middle East have evolved into the position he holds today." Check out KamalaHarris.news for more stories related to incumbent vice president. Watch the video below that talks about Harris's "leaked running mate" Josh Shapiro having "zero name recognition." This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: "Coronation" of Kamala Harris as democratic presidential nominee demonstrates America's democratic deficit, analyst warns. Mainstream media memory holes "border czar" moniker of Kamala Harris amid worsening migrant crisis. Kamala Harris enlists the support of DRAG QUEENS for her presidential campaign. Sources include: DailyMail.co.uk X.com Inquirer.com FoxNews.com NYPost.com Brighteon.com Operation Eastern Aurora: Poland and NATO boost air defense amid Ukraine-Russia tensions Poland and its NATO allies have launched a significant air defense operation to enhance the security of Polish airspace, which borders both Ukraine and Russia. Dubbed Operation Eastern Aurora, this initiative is supported by British and American armed forces and runs in parallel with the deployment of 17,000 soldiers to the Polish-Belarusian border, where a growing migration crisis has intensified the need for increased security measures. The operation's primary objective is to ensure continuous monitoring of Polish airspace along its Ukrainian and Russian borders, with a focus on coordinating responses to any airspace violations. (Related: Poland preparing military for World War III, NATO reveals.) Additionally, the Polish armed forces have confirmed that there will be improved information exchange between Poland and its allies to enhance situational awareness and operational effectiveness. General Maciej Klisz, the operational commander of Poland's armed forces, explained that Operation Eastern Aurora is designed to support both Polish military operations and broader NATO efforts in the Eastern region. "This operation is closely related to the efforts of our allies and the North Atlantic Alliance on NATO's eastern flank," he said. "Therefore, allied forces, including American and British troops, are involved in strengthening Poland's air-defense system as part of Eastern Aurora." Poland's air defense systems have faced considerable challenges due to conflicts on its two borders since Russia's escalation of its invasion of Ukraine. Reports from May indicated that Polish defense officials were contemplating the possibility of intercepting Russian missiles after repeated incursions into Polish airspace. This collaborative effort follows a significant meeting between British Defense Secretary John Healey and Polish Minister of National Defense W?adys?aw Kosiniak-Kamysz. The discussion centered on the impact of Russia's invasion of Poland and paved the way for increased bilateral cooperation. Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized the alignment of security views between Poland and Great Britain. "We have the same view on security in Europe and globally," he said. "During the last NATO Summit in Washington, we made decisions together. We are determined to enhance our capabilities and strengthen our Armed Forces. Poland and Great Britain are united in cooperation for the cause of freedom, peace and democracy. These are our core values, to which we remain committed." U.S. tanks, NATO combat vehicles move through Poland On July 30, U.S. tanks and other NATO combat vehicles were observed moving through Poland, with the U.S. Army relocating several vehicles from a military base in Mannheim, Germany, to warehouses in Powidz, as reported by Polish news outlet Radio Zet. Since Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, Polish airspace has faced multiple violations, including incursions by Russian missiles, observation balloons and Belarusian helicopters. One significant incident occurred in November 2022, when an object that crossed into Poland and resulted in two fatalities was initially thought to be a Russian missile. It was later identified as a Ukrainian air defense missile fired in response to a Russian attack. In light of these increased risks, Poland proposed the possibility of shooting down Russian missiles entering Ukrainian airspace but heading toward Polish territory. However, this proposal was rejected by NATO, which cautioned that such actions could risk involving the alliance directly in the conflict. The Polish military command has announced that, starting on Aug. 1, Operation Eastern Aurora will focus on "protecting Polands airspace from unauthorized border violations." The operation will prioritize objects flying at low and very low altitudes, such as drones and unmanned aerial vehicles, which are considered high-risk in the eastern and northeastern regions of Poland. Poland's eastern border is shared with Ukraine and Belarus, while the northeast border is shared with the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. The operation will involve continuous airspace monitoring, response to and neutralization of violations, coordination with allies and neighboring countries for effective information exchange and defense coordination and regular training and exercises. Follow WWIII.news for more stories like this. Watch the video below to know why Poland moved thousands of its troops near its border with Belarus. This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Poland confirms NATO troops are in Ukraine. Poland alerts NATO, sends more troops to border after accusing Belarus of violating its airspace. Poland does not plan to donate its own F-16 fighter jets and Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, but urges other nations to do so. Sources include: Newsweek.com NotesFromPoland.com Since dual technology cameras were introduced in NSW on July 1, more than 11,400 fines have been issued. Thousands of drivers, and passengers, are being caught not wearing their seatbelt correctly. Source: Getty/ NSW government via ABC Seatbelts save lives, that's a fact. But it seems a slew of Aussies are still getting caught out not wearing one properly and in just three weeks, it's resulted in more than 11,400 fines in NSW alone. The costly road act, which attracts a fine of $410 in NSW, started being monitored by mobile phone detection cameras across the state from July 1, following the likes of Queensland, South Australia, the ACT, and Victoria. The dual technology not only detects the use of phones while driving, but whether seatbelts are being worn correctly too a rule that not only applies to drivers but also passengers. While the seatbelt requirement has been in place for some 50 years, it appears many Aussies still aren't wearing them properly. According to NSW Road Rules 264-267, a seatbelt must be 'properly adjusted and fastened', meaning the sash should fall across your chest and mid-shoulder to your hips. An ill-fitting seatbelt may not restrain an occupant properly or could inflict injury in the event of a crash, the NRMA warns. Why so many Aussies are getting caught out by new road cameras Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, Avinash Singh, Principal Lawyer at Astor Legal, revealed many people dont realise the seatbelt cameras dont just check people are wearing a seatbelt, but also that they are wearing the seatbelts correctly. And it could be the reason why so many people are being fined during the rollout of new cameras. A woman was fined after her passenger failed to wear her seatbelt the correct way. Source/TikTok "A surprising number of people wear their seatbelt under the armpit instead of over the shoulder," he revealed. "They often believe that as long as the seatbelt is clicked in, this is sufficient, however, it is not and you can be fined $410 and three demerit points for wearing your seatbelt like this". Previously, an Aussie dad was fined $2,156 in a matter of weeks because his daughter, a passenger, was wearing hers incorrectly. She appeared to make the same mistake twice within two weeks. But the mistake is rife among truck drivers, Singh explained, adding they make up the majority of people being caught for seatbelt-related offences. "Truck drivers are notorious for not wearing seatbelts or not wearing them correctly", he said. How to properly wear a seatbelt. Source: The NRMA And there are other offences commonly picked up by the cameras too. "Another common offence I see too often is the sharing of seatbelts, particularly between parents and children," Singh noted. Plus, it's proven common for child seats to be inadequately restrained, which is also an offence. "Due to the size and dimensions of some child seats, it can be difficult or cumbersome for the seatbelt to be properly adjusted and fastened," he said. " Very young children can find this uncomfortable and parents sometimes give in and choose to not properly adjust and fasten the seatbelts, leaving the child in danger." Mobile detection cameras for seatbelts could help save lives The figures come just a week after 31,000 drivers in South Australia were also caught by new cameras. Drivers in South Australia have been offered a three-month grace period, which means they're simply hit with warning letters instead of fines to begin with. However, NSW drivers have begun being issued fines right away. The new cameras have been slowly rolled out across the country to help curb the nation's rising death toll. "We have a rising road toll in NSW and the straightforward act of putting a seatbelt on could save dozens of lives a year," Roads Minister John Graham recently said. Having an unrestrained baby is among the shocking number of offences being picked up on the new cameras. Source: NSW government According to the NRMA, 15 per cent of road deaths in NSW each year still involve individuals not buckling up. NRMA spokesman Peter Khoury previously told Yahoo News Australia that getting in the car and not putting on a seatbelt is a "really serious matter". "Often it's people who are in an impaired state, those people getting in the passenger seat after they've been drinking," he said. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. It wasn't until the photographer returned home that he noticed something 'unsettling' in his photographs of the osprey. The osprey dived into Cudgen Creek at Kingscliff and pulled out a fish. It was only when the photographer returned home that he noticed an alarming detail. Source: Anatole Zurrer Theres a particular "squawk" that large fish-eating osprey make when theyre preparing to dive into the water to make a kill. It was enough to make one walker look up in anticipation. But there was something unsettling about what he saw next. Ive got used to listening to the birds, you can hear them when theyre preparing to hunt. They get quite excited, NSW man Anatole Zurrer told Yahoo News. Zurrer had been strolling with his dog along the boardwalk, near the mouth of Cudgen Creek, a spectacular waterway south of Tweed Heads that opens onto the Pacific Ocean. Preempting a show from the raptor, he tied his dog to a post and pulled out his camera. I was hoping I was actually going to photograph it diving into the water, but it's a bit faster than me on my iPhone, Zurrer said. Photographer notices disturbing detail after returning home His first picture is like something from a nature documentary, and captures the osprey leaving the water, carrying a stunned fish to its nest. The other two images at first appear to show the bird with a stream of water trailing behind it, but when Zurrer took a second look he realised it was something entirely different the sad impact of humans on wildlife. It was only when I got home that I observed, no its not water, its fishing line, he said. The fishing line being dragged by the osprey initially looked like a trail of water. Source: Anatole Zurrer A sign near the raptor's nest advises walkers along the boardwalk the species is vulnerable to extinction in NSW due to loss of nesting sites and feeding grounds. It also warns they become entangled in fishing line when collecting sticks for their nests or hunting. "A female osprey from Kingscliff was killed by fishing line entanglement in 2011," it continues. While Zurrer thinks most of the local fishermen know better than to discard their line, hes seen strands dumped by tourists. He doesnt think there is anything nefarious about their littering, and it's more just a lack of consequential thinking. They dont necessarily recognise the ramifications of their behaviour. They leave fishing line, or a plastic bag on the ground and dont necessarily think its going to end up in the creek, he said. Wide-reaching impact of fishing line on Aussie animals The osprey isnt the only bird hes seen impacted by fishing line. A month ago, one of the local pelicans was seen with an injury to its bill a problem commonly caused by fishing line. A sign warns fishermen visiting Kingscliff that line has the potential to kill osprey. Source: Anatole Zurrer Discarded fishing line continues to maim and kill wildlife around Australia. And despite it being a repeated occurrence, some anglers still havent got the memo. Last month, Yahoo News reported on a seagull left tangled in line by a fisherman in Western Australia, and dingoes on Kgari with hooks in their mouths and bodies. In June, we told the story of a juvenile dolphin slowly dying in the Swan River after it became caught up in multiple strands. And a month earlier we shared confronting images of adult pelicans and a chick severely damaged by hooks. Go back a year, and you can read our reporting on the impact of fish hooks on endangered sea turtles. We also told the story of peoples pets having to undergo surgery after ingesting fishing equipment. The simple advice is if anglers cut line free or leave it on the shore, it has the potential to kill animals and birds. And baited hooks should never be left on the beach as they can and will be scavenged by creatures looking for a quick feed. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. Anand Mahindra to be chairman of Telangana Skill University T op industrialist and Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra will be the chairman of Young India Skills University being established by the Telangana government in a public-private partnership to impart skills to youth in various sectors. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy made this announcement while addressing a meeting of the Telugu Diaspora in New Jersey as part of his ongoing visit to the United States to invite investment. The Chief Minister said Anand Mahindra would be taking charge as the university's chairman in two days. Revanth Reddy said he requested Mahindra to accept the post of chairman and he agreed to this. The Chief Minister requested Mahindra when the latter called on him in Hyderabad on August 2. The Chief Minister had announced in the Assembly that an eminent corporate leader and a top academician will be appointed as chairman and Vice-Chancellor of the Skill University respectively. During the August 2 meeting, Mahindra had also agreed to adopt the automotive department in the university. Mahindra said the company will depute a team to visit the Young India Skill University. Automotive & Electric Vehicles are one of 17 verticals in which the university will impart skills to the students. A bill for setting up the university was passed in the state Assembly on August 1. The same day the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone for the permanent campus of the university on the outskirts of Hyderabad. The university will start functioning from a temporary campus and will offer courses in six verticals for the academic year 2024-25. Leading corporates have already come forward to be partners for six schools - School of Pharma and Life Sciences, E-commerce & Logistics, Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI), Construction & Interiors, Retail Operations & Management and Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming & Comics. Anand Mahindra to be chairman of Telangana Skill University Post your comments Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! The Australian father who was killed after being taken by a crocodile in Queensland's Far North has been identified as NSW doctor David Hogbin. Dave Hogbin with his wife Jane and their three children, prior to his death in Far North Queensland on Saturday. Source: GoFundMe The Australian father who was killed after being taken by a crocodile in Queensland's Far North at the weekend has been identified as NSW doctor David Hogbin. Yahoo News confirmed his identity with Windale Medical Centre in the Lake Macquarie region where he had recently worked. It's understood Hogbin was visiting the area with his family on Saturday when a 4.9m crocodile was believed to have snatched him after he slipped on the banks of the Annan River at Cooktown at 2.10pm. Police confirmed on Tuesday human remains were located in a crocodile that was shot dead at Cooktown on Monday. The animal was located four kilometres upstream from Crocodile Bend where Hogbin was snatched. Doctor's final selfless act to save wife life revealed According to family, the respected doctor and father-of-three used his final moments alive to save his wife from sharing his ultimate fate. Speaking out in a bid to set the record straight amid conflicting reports which suggested Hogbin was fishing prior to his death his wife Jane told news.com.au the family were actually nowhere near the water at the time. She said while walking on a pathway along a 15-metre-high riverbank, a portion of the bank suddenly gave way which caused Hogbin to slip into the river below. Despite being fit and tall, the conditions, likely exacerbated by recent rain, meant he was unable to pull himself from the water. Nearby, Jane heard the splash and leapt to her husband's aid. She was able to grab hold of his arm, but soon began slipping into the river herself. Hogbin's final act alive was to let go of his wife's arm when he realised she was too falling in, despite the knowledge she was his only chance at survival. Merely moments later he vanished. The Australian father who was killed after being taken by a crocodile in Queensland's Far North has been identified as NSW doctor David Hogbin. "I want to put a face to this tragedy someone didnt just get killed by a crocodile, we have lost a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, friend and doctor," Jane told news.com.au. "We were just enjoying a standard day of our holiday and everything just changed within 30 seconds. He wasnt doing anything wrong in fact, he was doing everything right, and this still happened. Things can change so quickly in an instant despite doing everything right. "He saved me his last act was to not pull me in with him. Im glad Im still here, because it could have been a millionfold worse for everyone involved, not just the boys." A fundraising campaign has been established to support Hogbin's wife and their three boys. Respected doctor frequented croc country, enjoyed camping Hogbin worked at Jewells Medical Centre, 16km south of Newcastle. His special medical interest was pediatrics, dermatology and acute care after a career in real estate and nuclear medicine. David Hogbin was nearby a riverbank at the Annan River near Cooktown in Far North Queensland, when he fell into the river on Saturday. Source: 7News Hogbin enjoyed four-wheel driving and camping with his wife and three boys, according to his employer. He was passionate about exploring Australia and had extensively travelled throughout the region in which died. It's understood Hogbin had been in the exact same spot less than a year earlier and was distinctly aware of the dangers posed by crocodiles. Disturbing video emerges after dad taken in front of family Earlier on Monday, footage was made available to Yahoo News showing fishermen feeding a crocodile believed to be the same that attacked Hogbin an esky-load of fish frames. Witnesses have reported the practice has been carried out for years. After being made aware of the video, DESI warned people visiting not to illegally feed crocodiles. "Crocodiles will quickly get accustomed to free food and will start approaching people and may start behaving aggressively," it said. Speaking at a briefing on Monday, Department of Environment, Science and Innovation senior conversation officer Daniel Guymer criticised reported actions of people throwing roadkill into the river which were then eaten by the crocodiles. He said the behaviour was "risky and reckless". "So any information and evidence in relation to alleged illegal activities, such as the unlawful feeding of a crocodile at that location, they will be investigated by our wildlife officers," he said. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. Researchers develop more accurate method for cervical cancer screening J apanese researchers have developed a more accurate method that comes with high diagnostic power to screen against cervical cancer from mucus samples. Cervical cancer has approximately 500,000 new cases diagnosed each year. But the number of people diagnosed with precursor lesions in the cervix -- also known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) -- is 20 times higher. Researchers from Fujita Health University aimed to identify biomarkers that could assist in the early detection of cervical cancer. Currently, the two most widely used screening procedures for these conditions are human papillomavirus (HPV) tests and cytology examinations. While cytology has rather low sensitivity for detecting CIN, HPV tests are highly sensitive. Yet HPV infections do not always lead to cervical lesions, resulting in poor specificity. The new study, published in the journal Cancer Science, focussed on a series of compounds that showed abnormal expression in serum and cervical mucus samples in cervical cancer patients. These findings could potentially revolutionise disease prevention strategies, said the team. They initially looked to find how changes in local immunity are related to cervical cancer, and "aimed to study all the currently known microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with the development and progression of cervical tumours", said Professor Takuma Fujii. The team compared the miRNA and cytokine profiles from serum and mucus samples, collected from patients with cervical cancer or CIN, over approximately eight years. Initial screening pointed out three candidate miRNAs and five candidate cytokines in serum, and five candidate miRNAs and seven candidate cytokines in mucus. "While miRNAs and cytokines in serum showed limited diagnostic accuracy, a specific combination of miRNAs and cytokines in mucus samples proved much more promising. This suggests that focusing on changes in local expression levels, rather than serum levels, may offer a superior diagnostic strategy," said the team. "Our study, for the first time, demonstrates that analysing mucus samples can distinguish cervical tumours from normal tissues more accurately than serum samples," Fujii said. Researchers develop more accurate method for cervical cancer screening Post your comments Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Cognizant to expand presence in Hyderabad with new facility G lobal IT major Cognizant will expand its operations in Hyderabad by setting up a new centre, which is expected to create 15,000 new jobs. The agreement for a one million square feet facility was concluded on Monday after Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and IT and Industries Minister D. Sridhar Babu, who are currently on a visit to the United States, called on Cognizant leadership in New York. The new facility will focus on various advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, digital engineering, and cloud solutions. According to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) here, the foundation for this agreement was laid out during the Davos visit of the Chief Minister and his delegation earlier this year. The company's proposed facility will be designed to accommodate 20,000 employees. This decision underscores Cognizant's commitment to leveraging Hyderabad's rich talent pool and robust infrastructure to support its global operations. The announcement came after a meeting the Chief Minister and IT Minister had with a high-level delegation of Cognizant headed by CEO Ravi Kumar. The discussions highlighted the strategic importance of Hyderabad as a growing hub for technology and innovation in India. "We are excited to expand our presence in Hyderabad, a city that continues to demonstrate its strengths as a technology and innovation hub," a statement from CMO quoted Ravi Kumar as saying. The new centre will enable Cognizant to better serve global clients and continue to deliver cutting-edge solutions in IT services and consulting. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy congratulated Cognizant for its expansion plans, emphasizing the government's commitment to fostering a conducive environment for IT and business services. "The expansion of Cognizant's operations in Hyderabad is a testament of confidence in the city's growing reputation as a global destination for technology companies," said the Chief Minister. Minister Sridhar Babu highlighted the significance of this expansion, saying, "Hyderabad's vibrant tech ecosystem continues to attract leading global companies. Cognizant's decision to establish a new centre strengthens our position as a leading IT hub." Cognizant to expand presence in Hyderabad with new facility Post your comments Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! BSF deploys more troops along Indo-Bangla border as unrest escalates in B'desh T he Border Security Force (BSF) has increased the deployment of troops along the India-Bangladesh border besides sounding an alert in the frontier areas amid escalating unrest in the neighbouring nation. BSF Director General Daljit Singh Chaudhary was also on a tour of the India-Bangladesh border along West Bengal on Monday. Accompanied by Ravi Gandhi, additional director general, Eastern Command, and Maninder Pratap Singh, IG, South Bengal Frontier, Chaudhary inspected the defence and operational preparedness in the North 24-Parganas district and the Sundarbans. "The DG, who is in charge of the SSB, took over additional charge of the BSF on Saturday and this is his first official visit to the India-Banglader border in West Bengal. In view of the situation in Bangladesh, the BSF has issued an alert with the IBB and the number of troops deployed along the border has been increased," said A.K. Arya, DIG and spokesperson, BSF, South Bengal Frontier. Chaudhary was briefed about the situation in North 24 Parganas before he moved to the floating Border Outpost at the T-Junction in the Sundarbans. He took stock of the situation there and instructed officers to maintain constant vigil. The India-Bangladesh border in the Sundarbans, with its numerous creeks and mudflats, is extremely vulnerable to cross-border movement, particularly in small fishing boats. The BSF has several speedboats to patrol the area, but infiltration attempts cannot be ruled out completely at the moment. According to sources, thousands of Bangladeshis could try to cross over to India to escape the violence taking place in their country. The India-Bangladesh border along North 24 Parganas is also porous with several riverine stretches where fencing has not been possible. "As of now, no major activity has been spotted along the India-Bangladesh border. The incidents of violence seem to be taking place in and around Dhaka. However, vigil has been increased to prevent any untoward incident," an official said. BSF deploys more troops along Indo-Bangla border as unrest escalates in B'desh Post your comments Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Rajasthan govt announces 'Kargil Package' on martyrdom of Agniveers T he Rajasthan government on Monday announced a 'Kargil Package' for the families of martyred Agniveers in the state. In a written reply to leader of opposition Tika Ram Jully in the Assembly on Monday, the state government announced plans to provide different facilities to Agniveers under the Kargil Package, including Rs 25 lakh cash to the widow of a martyred Agniveer, land or MIG house, government job, free education for children, FD of Rs 5 lakh for the parents, and free travel facility. The government will also provide the facilities in case an Agniveer becomes permanently disabled. Announcing these, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel said that Rajasthan will be the first state to provide such facilities to the families of Agniveers. "Children of a martyred Agniveer will get free education in government schools, engineering, medical, and general colleges. Schoolgoing children of a martyred Agniveer will also get a scholarship of Rs 1,800 while college-going students will get a scholarship of Rs 3,600," the Minister said. According to the provisions of the Kargil Package, a public place, including schools, hospitals, panchayat buildings etc., will be named after the martyred Agniveer. If a martyr's family has agricultural land in its name, an electricity connection will be given immediately on an out-of-turn basis. Under Rajasthan Roadways, the martyr's wife, his dependent children and parents will be issued a pass for free travel in ordinary, express, and deluxe buses. Rajasthan govt announces 'Kargil Package' on martyrdom of Agniveers Post your comments Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Adil Hussain talks about impact of cultural exposure on personality of artistes A ctor Adil Hussain, who is known for 'English Vinglish', 'Life of Pi', 'Lootera', and others, has said that cultural exposure and information flow shape our experiences and the personality of people. Adil recently attended the Chitrashaala Short Film Festival in the national capital along with actor Faisal Malik of 'Panchayat' fame. 12 short films set in rural India, were showcased at the Chitrashaala Short Film Festival as they highlighted critical environmental and social issues. The festival, held as part of the fourth edition of the India Rural Colloquy, mainly focused on films revolving around pressing climate issues as well as rural India's rich cultural and craft heritage. Conversations featuring actors Adil Hussain and Faisal Malik were moderated by film critic Saibal Chatterjee. During the conversation actor Adil Hussain said: "Growing up in Goalpara, one of the remotest towns in Assam, I was surrounded by a vibrant cultural scene, from local theatre to Bengali cinema, which deeply influenced my acting. I was surprised to meet a young man in Gurgaon who hadn't heard of the National School of Drama. This highlights how cultural exposure and information flow shape our experiences. My upbringing in Assam and my studies in England have uniquely prepared me to portray diverse roles on screen." A panel discussion after the screening of the short films on arts and crafts dwelled upon the theme, 'Cinema and Arts and Crafts'. The event also shed light on the challenges faced by the artisans, and the impact of climate change on rural life. Faisal Malik said: "I can't choose the roles I get; I don't know if anyone will give me a role or not. I get calls about cop roles, sometimes as a 'scoundrel,' and it's like a dream of becoming a police officer coming true. Growing up in Allahabad, we were obsessed with cinema, watching Amitabh Bachchan and Mithun Chakraborty repeatedly. This connection to cinema continues to influence my acting. The process involves a lot of discussion and sometimes disagreements with directors, but it's all about the actor's understanding and aligning with the vision for the role." A total of 14 short films were screened at Chitrashaala under four categories - Culture, Climate, Student Films and Film Critics Guild Choice. The event culminated with the screening of short films like 'Giddh' and 'Bittu' which were among the 10 films shortlisted for the Best Live Action Short Film segment of the 93rd Academy Awards. Adil Hussain talks about impact of cultural exposure on personality of artistes Post your comments Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! WK Holdings to invest $100 million in Telangana startups W alsh Karra Holdings, a US-based investment firm, will invest $100 in start-ups in Telangana over the next five years. This was announced by the firm while signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with WE Hub, India's first state-led nodal organization for women's entrepreneurship. Phani Karra and Greg Walsh of Walsh Karra Holdings and Sita Pallacholla, Chief Executive Officer of WE Hub, signed the MoU guaranteeing an investment of $5 million in WE Hub over the next five years. The MoU was signed in New York, in the presence of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Minister of Industry and Information Technology D. Sridhar Babu, during their official visit to the US to explore new partnerships and investments for the state. According to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) here, Revanth Reddy congratulated the entire team for this success. "Women entrepreneurship will liberate our society and unleash the truest potential of Telangana. No society can achieve its fullest potential without enabling and empowering women," the Chief Minister said. "With this initiative, over the next five years, WKH will also invest $100 million in start-ups incubating in the Telangana ecosystem, both WE Hub incubated start-ups and beyond, thus being a reliable partner in the growth story of both urban and rural Telangana," said Greg Walsh. Walsh Karra Holdings (WKH) co-founded by seasoned global entrepreneurs and investors Greg Walsh and Phani Karra, operates out of the US and Singapore. It is uniquely positioned to find and develop new investment opportunities to drive the next century's sustainable economy. It supports early and growth-stage companies that demonstrate their commitment to solutions that model innovation, sustainability, and profitability. By investing in these solutions, WKH aims to not only accelerate their scalability but also contribute to building a more sustainable future. "I studied at Osmania University and started my career at Hyderabad, which propelled me to succeed on the international stage. The gratitude I feel to India and Hyderabad made me look for ways to give back. With this partnership, we have found a reliable agency to ensure our investments make a positive impact in India," said Phani Karra. According to the CMO, in keeping with the Chief Minister's vision to enable more and more women to become drivers of economic empowerment of the nation, WE Hub will be implementing targeted programmes and world-class entrepreneurship, incubation, and acceleration programmes in the next five years. This investment by WKH will provide the much-needed timely impetus, catalysing the growth of WE Hub alongside the growth of women entrepreneurs. Sita Pallacholla said this investment would be used to design and deliver a flagship programme of international standards to women entrepreneurs in India. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister, Minister Sridhar Babu, and other members of the delegation visited the New York Stock Exchange. "It was rather fortuitous for us to start our trip to the USA to bring investments for Telangana with a visit to the historic New York Stock Exchange - an institution that is perhaps the heart of the American and global economy. An icon that stands testimony to the history of wealth creators, who have shaped our world," read a post from the CMO handle on X. "It was wonderful to explore the building, learn about its achievements, its eloquent statement of greatness, witnessing economic history being written for so long. My colleague D. Sridhar Babu and several team members have returned with a greater resolve to scripting and replicating an equally amazing story back home," it added. WK Holdings to invest $100 million in Telangana startups Post your comments Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Holding 'around-the-clock' talks to prevent war in Middle east: Biden U S President Joe Biden has held crisis talks on a potential Iranian counterattack on Israel as his administration said it was working around the clock to avoid all-out war in the Middle East. Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaged in frantic diplomacy to try to ease tensions sparked by a suspected Israeli attack that killed Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, KLAX-TV reported. "We are engaged in intense diplomacy, pretty much around the clock, with a very simple message -- all parties must refrain from escalation," Blinken said after joining other top officials in a White House meeting. "It's also critical that we break this cycle by reaching a ceasefire in Gaza," Blinken added, who has also spoken since Sunday with G7 counterparts and Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al Sudani. President Biden called King Abdullah II of Jordan, who helped shoot down Iranian drones and missiles in an earlier showdown in April, while Blinken called top officials in Qatar and Egypt, the key intermediaries seeking a ceasefire in the 10-month Israel-Hamas war. On Monday, multiple US personnel were injured in a rocket attack on a base in Iraq, adding to the already heightened regional tensions. Biden had been hoping in his final months in office to end the Gaza war and work on clinching a landmark deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Instead, he has boosted the US military presence in the Middle East in a show of strength to Iran, KLAX-TV reported. After staunchly backing Israel's war against Hamas, Biden has made clear his frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the killing of Haniyeh, who was involved in the ceasefire negotiations. Blinken, who has warned that Iran could strike soon, made a new pitch for Biden's ceasefire plan that would freeze fighting in Gaza and return hostages seized in the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas. A ceasefire "will unlock possibilities for more enduring calm, not only in Gaza itself but in other areas where the conflict could spread," Blinken said as he met Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. In a veiled allusion to US frustrations, Blinken said, "What it really comes down to, really, is all parties finding ways to come to an agreement, not look for reasons to delay or to say no." Holding 'around-the-clock' talks to prevent war in Middle east: Biden Post your comments Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! I have a peculiar connection with India: British actor Daniel Caltagirone H e shot with filmmaker Tarsem Singh for six months in Rajasthan, worked with Indian director Shekhar Kapoor in 'The Four Feathers' and will now soon be seen as the antagonist Lord Clement in Pa Ranjith's much-anticipated Tamil film 'Thangalaan', starring actor Vikram in the lead, and is set in 19th century in the Kolar gold mines discovered by the British. Daniel Caltagirone, however, assures that his portrayal of the British officer will not be cliched, as one witness in several Indian films. He told IANS, "That was my major concern when the director approached me. He assured me that I would be allowed to add layers to bring out something new to the character." The actor, who spent a year in India going through spring, summer, autumn and winter, is now said to have developed an unshakeable bond with the country. He recalled, "Yes, so I became acclimated to the madness of the weather. Of course, it was tough to work with the changing patterns of weather. However, now I am enjoying myself as the filming has concluded." Caltagirone has been part of major films like 'The Pianist', 'Legionnaire', 'The Fall' and 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider - The Cradle of Life'. When asked about his experience working on an Indian film set, he smiled and said that on the first day, he was shocked to see so many people running around and much noise. "I seriously thought something was wrong. But very quickly realised that it was a controlled chaos. There was a style and methodology that was working for them. I quickly became acclimatised to it and started to kind of appreciate it because there was this 'anything is possible' feeling all around. In the West, things are more structured, but it can breed a bit of apathy and boredom," he shared. While Caltagirone's acting style is naturalistic, he admitted it took him a while to hit the mark and level the director wanted him to, who told him that his Western approach towards acting does not belong to the world of this film. He said, "It is a very heightened world and in this universe, it would not look like overacting." In two to three weeks, when the actor saw himself on the monitor and realised that Pa Ranjith was right. "Of course, I do not know how my Western colleagues will react. I think they are going to be like, what is going on?" he smiled. Admitting that it was one of the most difficult films he had done but an experience of a lifetime, Caltagirone, who was honoured with the Nations Award in Venice for Outstanding Contribution to Film (2021) and has worked across genres, confessed, "While drama offers multiple chances to prove your acting prowess and range, it is a comedy that I prefer most." The actor, who attended the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama (England) and spent a season at the Royal Shakespeare Company, stressed that his training in theatre has been instrumental in shaping him as an actor. "Some of the finest screen actors boast of a theatre background," he concluded. I have a peculiar connection with India: British actor Daniel Caltagirone Post your comments Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Keeping a close watch on Bangladesh situation: Centre at all-party meet E xternal Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar chaired on Tuesday an all-party meeting on the situation in violence-struck Bangladesh, during which he said that India is keeping a close watch on the developments in the neighbouring country. EAM Jaishankar informed all the political parties about the safety of Indian nationals residing there and about the steps taken by the Union government. "Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended," the EAM said in a post on social media platform X. The government informed that around 20,000 Indians are in Bangladesh, most of whom were students, of which around 8,000 have returned to their homeland following an advisory released by India, sources quoted EAM Jaishankar as saying. The EAM also said that the government is in touch with the Bangladesh Army, and the situation there is constantly changing, and as the changes happen, the government will again give information about it. Additionally, sources suggest that nothing has been decided on former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's future plans, and it was suggested that she should be given some time to decide where she wants to go. Besides EAM Jaishankar, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju participated in the meeting. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, T. R. Balu from DMK, SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav, TMC leader Sudip Bandopadhyay, BJD leader Sasmit Patra, along with other floor leaders of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, were present at the meeting. On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting at his official residence, during which he was briefed about the entire crisis in the neighbouring nation. On Monday, Hasina landed at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad hours after resigning as the country's Prime Minister and leaving Dhaka en route to Delhi. Hasina arrived in India in a military transport plane of Bangladesh Air Force as thousands of protesters stormed and vandalised 'Ganabhaban' - the official residence of the Prime Minister in Dhaka. It was reported that over 100 people were killed and more than 1,000 injured in the clashes that took place between police and the protesters on Sunday. The student-led non-cooperation movement put immense pressure on Hasina's government over the past few weeks. The students had been protesting against a 30 per cent reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters who wrested independence for Bangladesh from Pakistan in a bloody civil war in 1971 in which, according to Dhaka officials, three million people were killed in the genocide by Pakistani troops and their supporters. Keeping a close watch on Bangladesh situation: Centre at all-party meet Post your comments Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Alarming rise in Ganga's water level in Bihar due to heavy rain C ontinuous rain in the Son River basin is affecting other rivers, including the Ganga, in Bihar, which are also recording a rise in the levels. The water level of the Ganga River in Patna was nearing the danger mark as per the last reports. The Son River's water level has reached its highest in 13 years, with over 150 mm of rainfall in the catchment area in the past 48 hours. Heavy rain in 11 districts of Madhya Pradesh, five districts of Chhattisgarh, and one district of Jharkhand are impacting the rivers of South Bihar. Water Resources Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary has asked engineers to stay on high alert due to the unexpected water discharge in the Son River. They have been asked to closely monitor the embankments. "The government is ready to deal with any emergency. At present, the situation is completely under control. Engineers have been alerted. The water level of the Ganga is rising due to excessive rain in the basin of the Son River," Chaudhary said. The basin area of the Son River has experienced heavy rainfall, leading to a record discharge of 5,21,000 cusecs of water from the Indrapuri Barrage. Due to flooding, water has entered dozens of villages in Rohtas and Aurangabad. The water discharge from the Son River has increased more than 22 times in the last 36 hours, exacerbating the situation. This has affected areas in South Bihar, and the water level of the Ganga River has risen rapidly. The Ganga's water level, which was below the danger mark in recent days, has suddenly increased more than tenfold. According to the Central Water Commission, the Ganga River in Patna is currently at 49.73 meters, just below the danger mark of 50.60 meters. At Digha Ghat in Patna, the danger level is 50.45 meters, and the Ganga River has reached 49.54 meters. At Gandhi Ghat, the danger level is 48.60 meters, and the water level is 48.52 meters, with levels continuing to rise. In 2016, the Son River saw a flow of 11.67 lakh cusecs, which caused flooding in many areas of South Bihar. Alarming rise in Ganga's water level in Bihar due to heavy rain Post your comments Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Majority Indian online shoppers worried about data security, exposure of personal info: Report A significant number of Indian consumers shopping online are worried about the possibility of data breaches, according to a report on Tuesday. In the report by EY Future Consumer Index (FCI), based on responses from 1,000 Indian participants within a worldwide poll, 77 per cent of Indian consumers express profound concern about the possibility of data breaches when shopping online. About 73 per cent said they worry about their private information being disclosed. A whopping 62 per cent of Indian consumers reported making online purchases influenced by AI recommendations as compared to just 30 per cent globally. The report also revealed that 78 per cent of consumers prefer to shop on online platforms that provide human customer service support. As much as 61 per cent were more inclined to share personal information with a human rather than through automated processes. "To connect with today's consumers, retailers must understand their evolving needs. As consumers become more discerning in their choices and empowered to demand fair value for their money, retailers need to step up to be able to satisfy these demands. "While Indian consumers are putting a lot of faith in Artificial Intelligence and other technologies, the human touch through authentic, trustworthy connections and engagement is becoming more important than ever before," said Angshuman Bhattacharya, Partner and National Leader - Consumer Product and Retail Sector, EY Parthenon. "Data is king for consumer products companies and brands, but it is imperative for retailers to maintain transparency in their data usage practices and to simplify the opt-out process for consumers who prefer to keep their data private," he added. Further, the report showed that 60 per cent of Indian consumers find products recommended by influencers extremely trustworthy as compared to 27 per cent globally. A whopping 84 per cent of Indian consumers have bought products solely based on an influencer's recommendation or promotion. Tangible benefits such as discounts and exclusive deals are driving the popularity of online shopping in India. About 75 per cent of consumers acknowledged that they prefer to shop online and only visit stores that provide an exceptional experience, in contrast, only 41 per cent of global consumers feel the same. In the last six months in India, 51 per cent of the consumers have downloaded a retail app compared to 31 per cent globally. However, damaged goods (21 per cent), inadequate customer support (20 per cent), and obstacles in processing refunds (19 per cent) are also some concerns, revealed the report. Majority Indian online shoppers worried about data security, exposure of personal info: Report Post your comments Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Another 19 local firearms are unaccounted for after being reported stolen in the first three months of 2024 in Danville (five), Champaign (four), Mahomet (three), Urbana (three), Rantoul (two), Fithian (one) and rural Ford County (one). Read the details about what police and sheriff's deputies were told about the circumstances of every case, part of a continuing N-G series. Thought Leaders John Yates Professor in the Department of Molecular Medicine Scripps Research Institute In this interview conducted at Pittcon 2024, we spoke to Professor John Yates from the Scripps Research Institute about capturing cardiomyocyte cell-to-cell heterogeneity via shotgun top-down proteomics. Could you please introduce yourself and briefly describe the main focus of your research and what inspired you to start your work in proteomics? My name is John Yates, and I am at the Scripps Research Institute. For 40 years, my research has focused on protein analysis by mass spectroscopy. I was a zoology major in college, and I loved biology. Through these studies, I developed an interest in sequencing proteins. A group at my college used mass spectrometry to sequence proteins, and I thought it was a very exciting area of research. Computers were new and fairly rare back then, so it was interesting that a computer was on the mass spectrometer. This experience and exposure to the field inspired me to base my research on utilizing mass spectrometry to sequence proteins. Your research emphasizes the importance of understanding cell-to-cell heterogeneity. How did you initially identify this as a crucial area of study in the context of health and disease? To help us understand cell-to-cell heterogeneity, it should be appreciated that cells are different, particularly if you look at them in the context of a functioning tissue. A cell can be considered a system; therefore, tissues are just a system of systems. The basic aim is to understand cells and their differences, even cells of the same type. These differences often arise as a reaction to their local environments. Pittcon 2025: Mar 1-5 Register for Pittcon 2025 Boston Convention and Exhibition Center Boston, MA The natural evolution from acquiring this basic knowledge is exploring it in the context of health and disease. The ease of studying different aspects of biology has increased since the techniques for carrying out proteomics have become more powerful. Investigations in this field rapidly moved from cells to tissues to whole organisms. Can you elaborate on the significance of cell-to-cell heterogeneity in understanding biological functions and disease mechanisms? The effect of protein mutations can vary hugely; in one cell type, a mutation can be devastating, whereas in another protein, the same mutation can be a passenger, not affecting the cell's biology or function. An example of protein mutations having a devastating effect is in ALS, Lou Gehrig's disease. The mutations that occur in the protein superoxide dismutase destroy motor neurons, and people begin losing muscular function. Pittcon 2025: Mar 1-5 Register for Pittcon 2025 Boston Convention and Exhibition Center Boston, MA What are some challenges and potential advancements in applying top-down proteomics for individual cell analysis? Proteomics primarily centers around digesting proteins into peptides for analysis. This approach is driven by the fact that peptide analysis technologies are more mature and reliable compared to those for whole proteins. Proteins pose greater challenges due to their diverse and often extreme chemistry. For instance, membrane proteins are varied, highly hydrophobic, and notoriously difficult to handle, as are proteins such as mucins, which have high levels of glycosylation. Dealing with intact proteins creates numerous difficulties, amplifying the complexity of analysis. Consequently, top-down proteomics, which focuses on studying intact proteins, lags behind bottom-up proteomics in its capacity to address crucial biological questions. Image Credit: Proteomics/Shutterstock.com Despite these drawbacks, there are also benefits associated with using top-down proteomics. For instance, utilizing top-down proteomics is what has driven the field to be able to analyze proteoforms. Proteoforms are proteins that are modified differently from the same gene. The gene can be spliced to create proteins with differences, including variations in size. These proteins are modified depending on their particular function. Top-down proteomics is the best form of analysis for multiple investigations. It defines a protein's function and understands how the function can be changed based on the various modifications or patterns of modifications to a protein. What are the key advantages of employing a CellenONE device and EThcD over traditional methods in your approach using shotgun top-down proteomics? CellenONE is a new device that is very good at isolating cells. I do not have one in my lab, but I collaborate with a group that has one, and they have figured out how to isolate cardiomyocytes successfully. The video feed associated with the CellenONE device can be used to observe the cardiomyocytes. It was discovered that they remain beating as they pass through the system, suggesting cardiomyocytes survive the analytical process. CellenONE has revolutionized the field by discovering a novel way to isolate cells using flow cytometry. What were some of the biggest technical challenges you faced in developing this method for analyzing single cardiomyocyte cells? As with many analytical methods, not all issues have been solved yet. A significant challenge emerged in analyzing the contractile machinery in cardiomyocytes because the proteins responsible for their beating are not very soluble. Pittcon Thought Leader: John Yates Play Therefore, researchers must find a way to make these proteins soluble enough to pass through the mass spectrometer to result in an accurate analysis. Your study identified a high degree of proteoform heterogeneity among individual cardiomyocyte cells. How does this finding alter our understanding of cardiac biology? This is a novel approach; therefore, we have not yet gathered enough information for our understanding of cardiac biology to be altered. However, we are on the pathway to doing so. Moving forward, one of our primary objectives is to understand if there is a biological difference between cardiomyocytes of different sizes. Cardiomyocyte size can range from 40 to 100 microns, and these differences may change the function and where it is located in the ventricle heart. You mention the discovery of numerous post-translational modifications like crotonylation and phosphorylation. Could you tell us more about this finding and what implications these findings have for future cardiac research or therapies? The important thing to take from these findings is that we can now measure these post-translational modifications. However, it is still too soon to understand the implications for cardiac research and therapies. Now that these observations have been recognized on normal hearts, we can move forward to start looking at diseased hearts to understand how the phosphorylation patterns may change as a function of disease. Consequently, we will likely start understanding the implications behind post-translational modifications from these comparisons. Studies have also been conducted on bulk cells. Through this analysis, it has been observed that changes in phosphorylation patterns could be a function of heart failure. Efforts to understand what drives these changes could help us in the search for new therapies. What are the next steps in your research? Are there specific areas or applications in cardiomyocyte proteome analysis that you are particularly excited to explore? An important focus for the future of this field is to gain access to and analyze proteins of a greater size within cardiomyocytes. This will be achieved through continued improvements to the analytical methods used. Alongside this, focus will be placed on gaining more reliable information regarding where the modifications are located in each protein, improving the proteins' fragmentation process. Overall, the aim is to analyze all the proteins within cardiomyocytes in greater detail, whereas, currently, analysis has only occurred on a fraction of proteins. As we mark the 75th anniversary of Pittcon, could you share your first memory or experience of attending this conference and how it impacted your view of the scientific community? Going back 30 years, walking down the exposition hall was a mind-blowing experience. The conference was huge, with 30,000 people and lots of excitement. Many of the vendors were running special events around the conference. Therefore, my overall experience was super interesting and exciting. At my first Pittcon, I was on the editorial advisory board for the journal, Analytical Chemistry. About John Yates John R. Yates is the Ernest W. Hahn Professor in the Departments of Molecular Medicine and Neurobiology at The Scripps Research Institute. He received a B.A. in Zoology and an M.S. in Chemistry from the University of Maine at Orono. He obtained his Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of Virginia in the laboratory of Donald F. Hunt, with a dissertation titled, "Protein Sequencing by Tandem Mass Spectrometry..He performed postdoctoral research in the laboratory of Leroy E. Hood at California Institute of Technology. At the University of Washington, he obtained the rank of Associate Professor with tenure before moving to The Scripps Research Institute in LaJolla, CA. His research interests include development of integrated methods for tandem mass spectrometry analysis of protein mixtures, bioinformatics using mass spectrometry data, and biological studies involving proteomics. He is the lead inventor of the SEQUEST software for correlating tandem mass spectrometry data to sequences in the database and developer of the shotgun proteomics technique for the analysis of protein mixtures. His laboratory has developed the use of proteomic techniques to analyze protein complexes, posttranslational modifications, organelles and quantitative analysis of protein expression for the discovery of new biology. Many proteomic approaches developed by Yates have become a national and international resource to many investigators in the scientific community. He has received the American Society for Mass Spectrometry research award, the Pehr Edman Award in Protein Chemistry, the American Society for Mass Spectrometry Biemann Medal, the HUPO Distinguished Achievement Award in Proteomics, Herbert Sober Award from the ASBMB, and the Christian Anfinsen Award from The Protein Society, the 2015 ACSs Analytical Chemistry award, 2015 The Ralph N. Adams Award in Bioanalytical Chemistry, the 2018 Thomson Medal from the International Mass Spectrometry Society, the 2019 John B. Fenn Distinguished Contribution to Mass Spectrometry award from the ASMS, the 2019 HUPO Award in Discovery, and the 2024 Pittsburgh Society Award in Analytical Chemistry. He was ranked by Citation Impact, Science Watch as one of the Top 100 Chemists for the decade, 2000-2010. He was #1 on a List of Most Influential in Analytical Chemistry compiled by The Analytical Scientist 10/30/2013 and is on the List of Most Highly Influential Biomedical Researchers, 1996-2011 (European J. Clinical Investigation 2013, 43, 1339-1365) and the Clarivate List of Highly Cited Scientists in 2015 and 2019-2023. He has published over 1000 scientific articles with >173,000 citations, and an H index of 205 (Google Scholar). Dr. Yates served as an Associate Editor at Analytical Chemistry for 15 years and is currently the Editor in Chief at the Journal of Proteome Research. About Pittcon Pittcon is the worlds largest annual premier conference and exposition on laboratory science. Pittcon attracts more than 16,000 attendees from industry, academia and government from over 90 countries worldwide. Their mission is to sponsor and sustain educational and charitable activities for the advancement and benefit of scientific endeavor. Pittcons target audience is not just analytical chemists, but all laboratory scientists anyone who identifies, quantifies, analyzes or tests the chemical or biological properties of compounds or molecules, or who manages these laboratory scientists. Having grown beyond its roots in analytical chemistry and spectroscopy, Pittcon has evolved into an event that now also serves a diverse constituency encompassing life sciences, pharmaceutical discovery and QA, food safety, environmental, bioterrorism and cannabis/psychedelics. Mental health screenings must be incorporated in routine prostate cancer diagnoses say University of South Australia researchers. The call follows new research that shows men need more supports both during and immediately after a diagnosis of prostate cancer. Funded by Movember, the UniSA study tracked the scale and timing of mental health issues among 13,693 South Australian men with prostate cancer, finding that 15% of prostate cancer patients began mental health medications directly after a prostate cancer diagnosis, with 6% seeking help from mental health services. It's an important finding, not only highlighting the percentage of prostate cancer patients who seek mental health support, but notably, those who do not. Every year, more than 24,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer, with up to 40% of patients considered at risk of mental distress. Lead researcher UniSA's Dr Tenaw Tiruye says the study highlights an acute need to offer mental health services and support for all men diagnosed with prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting Australian men. But despite high survival rates, psychological issues are one of the most frequently reported unmet needs among prostate cancer survivors. Dr. TenawTiruye, Lead Researcher and Research Associate, University of South Australia "Prostate cancer can take a serious toll on the mental health of men throughout all stages of the illness including diagnosis, surveillance, treatment, and followup with an estimated one in six people experiencing clinical depression. "In fact, the rates of depression and anxiety among prostate cancer patients are significantly higher than those in the general population, as is the risk of suicide. "In our study we found that 15% of patients started anti-anxiety and antidepression medications at the time of their diagnosis, and that 6% looked for mental health support. This shows that men are more likely to commence psychotropic medications than seek out mental health services. "But it also shows a significant gap, which is those men who have not sought help." Senior researcher, UniSA's Dr Kerri Beckmann says fewer than a quarter of men ask for help when it comes to their mental health. "Whether it's the stigma surrounding mental health, or a fear about being seen as weak, statistics shows that many men struggle to seek help for mental health concerns," Dr Beckmann says. "So, rather than waiting for men to proactively seek out mental health supports once they've been diagnosed with prostate cancer, we should be offering supports at the time of diagnosis and throughout treatment. That way it can be seen as a normal and required part of treatment. "Only by normalising mental health discussions, can we improve access to wellbeing tools and services, to ensure that men with prostate cancer have every opportunity to voice their struggles and receive the support they need." Crisis in Bangladesh: Shares of textiles, garments & apparel companies like Gokaldas Exports, Century Enka, and SP Apparels rallied up to 20 per cent on Tuesday. Shares of Gokaldas Exports zoomed 18% to a fresh 52-week high of Rs 1,089.40 on the NSE as investors believe that the Bangladesh crisis will boost textile exports from India. Other top gainers were KPR Mill (16%), Arvind Ltd (11%), SP Apparels (18%), Century Enka (20%), Kitex Garments (16%) and Nahar Spinning (14%). With the crisis in Bangladesh intensifying, the textile sector, which contributes a lions share of its export, is likely to be a victim of the turmoil, with international buyers shifting their focus to alternative markets like India. Indias gain will be an additional business of $300-400 million per month if 10-11 per cent of the neighbouring countrys export is diverted to Indian hubs like Tiruppur; the newspaper reported quoting industry experts. Overall, government investments, coupled with growth in domestic demand on account of the rising disposable incomes and the growing popularity of fast fashion products, promises a thrilling future for the Indian textiles and apparel industry. These factors will give an impetus to the industry despite the persistent slowdown in demand in certain key markets, according to analysts. This unrest will undoubtedly damage the countrys brand value in the eyes of the US and European manufacturers, who often give Bangladesh preference. Consequently, the garments and textile sector in India may gain an advantage due to these ongoing protests and clashes, Vikram Kasat Head of Advisory at Prabhudas Lilladher, said. However, yarn exporters may get hit as Bangladesh is the biggest customer for yarn export as of now with a 25-30% share. And any disruption over there will have issues here also. But since its a small kind of a thing, I mean its not really very big. As of now, there is no impact on the demand. But unless it is resolved or it continues for a long period, then there could be a concern. But as of now, there doesnt seem to be an issue, Neeraj Jain, Joint Managing Director of Vardhman Textiles, said in an earnings call. After weeks of anti-government protests and clashes between police and protestors that claimed hundreds of lives, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday. The army chief said an interim government will be formed to run the country. Bangladesh is the second-largest garments exporting country and exported around $47 billion worth of ready-made garments in 2023. The South Asian country has a high double-digit share in the European Union and the United Kingdom and a 10% market share in the United States. The civil unrest in Bangladesh could present opportunities for Indian companies in the export market as global brands may want to diversify out of the troubled zone. The turmoil is also bad news for all Indian companies which either source their products or sell their stuff in the neighbouring country. The intense competition in the global market, especially from the textile and garment industries in Bangladesh and China, may also prove a dampener for the industry, but strong players and fully integrated ones with a fullstack solutions, will continue to stay ahead of the curve, Arvind Limited said. Global demand outlook Global demand outlook for CY24 continues to be relatively stronger vis-a-vis CY2023. In tandem with global retailers commentary, Indian Home textile and apparel exporters expect demand to improve in coming quarters. Any normalisation of demand in CY24 (led by hospitality / residential) amidst improved global retailers inventory position leaves headroom for export demand recovery by Indian exporters (refer positive demand guidance by Indian players in exhi, implying orders pick up in coming quarters, analysts at JM Financial Institutional Securities said in its textile sector report. Extended runway for revenue growth over next 3 years (courtesy impending FTAs / China+1), GOIs increased focus on textile ecosystem (rebates/PLI) and deflation in commodity price (cotton price off highs and range bound) make a strong case for improvement in FY25 earnings trajectory, the brokerage firm said. A deleveraged balance sheet of Indian textile players leave ample room for chasing revenue growth as / when structural demand drivers pick pace. Huge addressable market size / topnotch execution/ de-leveraged balance sheet bode well for key players in the home textile/ apparel sector, it added. Stock Market LIVE Updates: Equity benchmark indices, the BSE Sensex and the NSE Nifty50, pared early gains to settle in the red on Tuesday. The BSE Sensex ended at 78,593, down 166 points or 0.21 per cent. The index jumped 1.38 per cent to hit the days high of 79,852.08 during intraday trade. The NSE Nifty50, on the other hand, ended 63 points or 0.26 per cent down at 23,992. It had climbed 1.35 per cent to the days high of 24,382.6 during intraday trade. Global Cues Markets in Asia-Pacific saw a big revival with Japans markets leading the advances in the region. The Nikkei 225 soared 9.87 per cent and broad based Topix surged 9.95 per cent. Japans stocks recovered sharply after the Nikkei 225 and Topix had plunged more than 12 per cent in the previous session. Overnight in the US, the 30-stock Dow and the S&P 500 experienced their worst sessions since September 2022. The Dow closed 2.6 per cent lower, while the S&P 500 dropped 3 per cent. The Nasdaq Composite declined 3.43 per cent. However, the S&P 500 futures rebounded in overnight trading following the broad indexs worst day in nearly two years signalling a revival for US markets in the upcoming session. Futures for the S&P 500 increased by 0.9 per cent, Nasdaq 100 futures surged 1.3 per cent, and Dow Jones Industrial Average futures climbed 0.6 per cent. Stocks To Watch On August 6: Indian benchmark indices crashed nearly 3% on Monday following extremely weak trends in global equity markets amid fears of a slowdown in the US economy. In todays trade, shares of RIL, Bharti Airtel, Vedanta, Tata Power, Lupin among others will be in focus due to various news developments and first quarter results. Earnings Watch: Tata Power, Lupin, TVS, Shree Cement, Gujarat Gas, IIFL Finance, Krsnaa Diagnostics, Vedanta, VIP Industries, Linde India, PI Industries, Chambal Fertilisers & Chemicals, Cummins India, EIH, Gland Pharma, Symphony, PB Fintech, Power Finance Corporation, Bajaj Electricals, Bata India, Blue Star, and Bosch. New Listing: Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals is set to list on the Mainboard today. Bharti Airtel: Telecom giant Bharti Airtel reported a sharp 158 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) jump in net profit in the June quarter (Q1FY25). This comes amid greater focus on cost efficiencies, rising number of 4G and 5G users, and continued growth in the Wi-Fi category. Beating industry estimates, the telcos net profit for Q1FY25 reached Rs 4,159 crore, up from Rs 1,612 crore in the year-ago period. Sequentially, the profit more than doubled. It was Rs 2,071 crore in the previous quarter. Triveni Turbine: Triveni Turbine reported a 31.9 per cent increase in profit to Rs 80.41 crore and a 23 per cent rise in revenue to Rs 463.3 crore. Brigade Ent: Brigade Enterprises saw a whopping 268 per cent increase in profit to Rs 80.5 crore and a 64.8 per cent rise in revenue to Rs 1,077.7 crore. RIL: Reliance Industries is set to hold its fourty-seventh Annual General Meeting on August 29. Aster DM Healthcare: Aster DM Healthcare has announced the resignation of its CEO, Nitish Shetty. Tata Chemicals: Tata Chemicals, however, experienced a major decline, with profit dropping 67.6 per cent to Rs 190 crore and revenue falling 10.2 per cent to Rs 3,789 crore. Bharti Hexacom: Bharti Hexacom saw a 130 per cent increase in profit to Rs 511.2 crore, although earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) and margin slightly decreased. Schneider Electric Infrastructure: Schneider Electric Infrastructure posted a 38.8 per cent rise in profit to Rs 48.5 crore and a 19.7 per cent increase in revenue to Rs 592.9 crore. Deepak Nitrite: Deepak Nitrite reported a 35.1 per cent increase in profit to Rs 202.5 crore, with a 22.5 per cent rise in revenue to Rs 2,166.8 crore. Adani Energy Solutions: Adani Energy Solutions has raised Rs 8,373 crore through a QIP. Biocon: Biocon received a Voluntary Action Indicated (VAI) status from the United States food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for its Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) facility in Visakhapatnam. Motherson Sumi Wiring India: Motherson Sumi Wiring Indias profit jumped by 20.9 per cent to Rs 148.9 crore, with a 16.7 per cent increase in revenue to Rs 2,184.8 crore. ONGC: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation saw a 9.4 per cent decline in profit to Rs 8,938.1 crore compared to the previous quarter, although revenue grew by 1.8 per cent to Rs 35,266.4 crore. Lupin: Lupin has incorporated a new wholly-owned subsidiary in Sri Lanka and is facing a significant GST recovery demand. It will also announced its Q1 results today. V-Mart: V-Mart Retail turned a profit of Rs 12.14 crore, compared to a loss in the previous year, and revenue grew by 15.9 per cent to Rs 786 crore. BEML: BEMLs net loss narrowed to Rs 70.5 crore, with a 9.9 per cent rise in revenue to Rs 634.1 crore. Mahindra Lifespace Developers: Mahindra Lifespace Developers will be seeing a change in its Chief Marketing Officer, effective September 30. Petrol, Diesel Prices Today On August 6, 2024: Oil marketing companies (OMCs) announce fuel prices at 6 am on a daily basis. The OMCs adjust prices in response to global crude oil prices and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, ensuring consumers are always informed about the latest fuel costs. Government oil marketing companies release the latest petrol and diesel prices daily at 6 am in the country. The prices have remained unchanged in most parts of the country since March 2024 when the central government cut petrol prices by Rs 2. Before that, the fuel prices remained steady since May 2022, following a reduction in fuel taxes by the central government and several states. Petrol Diesel Price Today In India Check city-wise petrol and diesel prices on August 6: City Petrol Price (Rs/litre) Diesel Price (Rs/litre) Delhi 94.72 87.62 Mumbai 103.44 89.97 Chennai 100.85 92.44 Kolkata 103.94 90.76 Noida 94.66 87.76 Lucknow 94.65 87.76 Bengaluru 102.86 88.94 Hyderabad 107.41 95.65 Jaipur 104.88 90.36 Trivandrum 107.62 96.43 Bhubaneswar 101.06 92.91 Factors Affecting Petrol And Diesel Prices In India Crude oil price: The primary raw material for the production of petrol and diesel is crude oil; as such, its price directly influences the ultimate cost of these fuels. The exchange rate between the Indian rupee and the US dollar: As a major importer of crude oil, Indias petrol and diesel prices are also influenced by the exchange rate between the Indian and US dollar. Tax: Various taxes on petrol and diesel are imposed by both the central and state governments. These taxes may differ across states, exerting a notable influence on the ultimate prices of petrol and diesel. The cost of refining: The final price of petrol and diesel is additionally influenced by the expenses incurred in refining crude oil into these fuels. The refining process can be costly, and the refining expenses may fluctuate based on factors like the type of crude oil utilised and the refinerys efficiency. The demand for petrol and diesel: The demand for petrol and diesel can also affect their prices. If demand for these fuels increases, it can lead to higher prices. Know the price of petrol and diesel through SMS You can also find out the latest petrol and diesel prices in your city through SMS. If you are a customer of Indian Oil, then you will have to write RSP along with the city code and send it to 9224992249. If you are a customer of BPCL, then you can get information about the new price of petrol and diesel by writing RSP and sending it to 9223112222. Whereas, if you are a customer of HPCL, then you can find out the price of petrol and diesel by writing HP Price and sending it to 9222201122. The administration of Kanpur University has taken a special decision for the final year students who have failed in any one subject. The university has decided to conduct special back papers so that their year is not wasted and they can continue their studies further. Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj Universitys Controller of Examinations Dr. Rakesh Kumar said that in the meeting of the Universitys Examination Committee, it has been decided to conduct a special back paper. This special back paper will be conducted in August. The timeframe has been decided for the results to be released on time for the students. It will reportedly benefit about 35,000 students. Dr. Rakesh Kumar said that the university and affiliated colleges had requested for special backpaper facility for the students. It will help to secure the future of students as the late back papers usually delay the degrees, eventually failing to apply for jobs at the right time. By passing this special back paper on time, they can gain admission in their further studies and apply for jobs. About 35,000 students, including UG and PG, can take advantage of this. CoE Rakesh Kumar said that the undergraduate and postgraduate students will be given the facility to give special back papers in only one subject. With this, undergraduate students will be able to enrol in the postgraduate exams after passing and postgraduate students will also be able to apply for further competitive examinations and PhD. Kanpur University, also known as Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University (CSJMU), has recently achieved a significant milestone by attaining the esteemed status of Category 1, conferred by the University Grants Commission (UGC). This distinction is a moment of immense pride for the institution, which had previously been bestowed with an A+ grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). With its inclusion in Category 1 by the UGC, CSJMU gains access to a host of benefits outlined in Clause 4 of the UGC Regulations, 2018. These privileges include greater autonomy in introducing new courses, establishing centres beyond the main campus and exemption from UGC approval for research partnerships. Rajasthan youth who are looking for a government job can now seek employment at Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RSPC). The RSPC has announced a recruitment drive to fill up 1,000 vacancies. The commission released a notification for the recruitment and is looking for eligible candidates for the post of Assistant Engineer and Assistant Statistical Officer. There are a total of 1,014 vacancies for Assistant Engineer and 43 for Statistical Officer. As per the recruitment notification issued by the commission, candidates can apply for Civil/Mechanical/Electrical Assistant Engineer positions from August 14 till September 12. The application for Assistant Statistical Officer recruitment in the Economic and Statistics Department will be from August 12 to September 10. Candidates must make sure that they apply for the positions by visiting the website of the Rajasthan Public Service Commission rspc.rajasthan.gov.in. Application Fees The application fee for both the recruitments released by the Rajasthan Public Service Commission is the same. Candidates belonging to unreserved/ Other Backward Classes (OBC) Creamy Layer/ Extremely Backward Creamy Layer will have to pay Rs 600. For Scheduled Caste (SC)/ Scheduled Tribe (ST)/Extremely Backward Non-Creamy Layer/Backward Non-Creamy Layer the fee is Rs 400. For Economically Weaker Section (EWS)/ Sahariya Area candidates, and Persons With Disability (PWD) the fee is Rs 400. Who Can Apply For the role of Assistant Engineer, candidates must have a degree in Bachelor in Engineering (BE) or Bachelor in Technology (B.Tech) in relevant branches. The minimum age limit has been set to 21 years and the maximum age limit is 40 years as of January 1, 2025. Candidates from reserved category will get a relaxation on maximum age limit as per the rules of the government. For the role of Assistant Statistical Officer, a candidate must have a Masters Degree in Mathematics or Statistics or Commerce with second-division scores. The minimum age limit has been set to 21 and the maximum age allowed is 40 years. The selection for these posts will be done based on an exam which includes prelims/mains followed by an interview. The Uttar Pradesh Police Recruitment Board issued a special alert ahead of the UP Police Constable Recruitment Exam, following the leak of the exam paper on February 18-19, 2024. Approximately 48 lakh candidates had applied for the exam, which has now been rescheduled to August 23, 24, 25, 30, and 31, 2024. In response to the previous leak, the Uttar Pradesh Police Recruitment Board implemented stringent measures to ensure the integrity of the upcoming examination. An important notice posted on August 5 on the boards social media accounts calls for public assistance in reporting any suspicious activities related to the exam, including paper leaks and cheating. The notice outlines that information can be reported anonymously through an email address and WhatsApp number provided by the board. The contact details are: satarkta.policeboard@gmail.com and WhatsApp number 9454457951. The board assures that the identity of those providing information will be kept confidential. Any information regarding attempts to undermine the recruitment examinations such as paper leaks, buying or selling of papers, cheating, solver gangs, or other undesirable activities should be reported to the board. You can provide such information by emailing satarkta.policeboard@gmail.com or sending a message to the WhatsApp number 9454457951, read the statement. The upcoming exam will be held in two shifts each day, accommodating a total of 5 lakh candidates per shift. Recruitment will be conducted for 60,244 constable positions across the state. The board emphasises its commitment to conducting the examination fairly and warns that those involved in fraudulent activities could face severe penalties, including life imprisonment and fines up to Rs 1 crore. The UP Police Recruitment Board is determined to prevent any recurrence of the previous issues and is calling on the public to aid in safeguarding the examination process. Bangladesh has fallen! The country, which was born out of the 1971 Liberation War, is witnessing the worst political and civil disruption, with police and students clashing over the controversial quota system, Sheikh Hasina resigning and fleeing Dhaka, protesters vandalizing her official residence, and the army announcing interim government. Sheikh Hasina is currently in India, is seeking for refuge in London or any European country, sources say. Her stay in India is approved only temporarily, pending her relocation to Britain. As of now, there has been no confirmation from the UK government regarding the grant of political asylum for the former Bangladesh Prime Minister, Daily Sun reported. Today, more than 50 years after the war, Bangladesh stands at the crossroads of its political future. It is important to understand the creation of Bangladesh and the important leaders who shaped it. Understanding The 1971 Liberation War After Pakistan gained Independence with two territories known as West Pakistan and East Pakistan, the struggle for Bengali rights started. But relations between the two regions turned sour due to Pakistans refusal to accept Bengali as a state language, economic disparity between the two parts, the hegemony of the West Pakistani ruling elite over Pakistan, martial laws among other reasons. Tensions rose in December 1970 when the Awami League party, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman (also known as Mujib) and based in East Pakistan, won the national elections but West Pakistan parties, namely the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), refused to hand over power. Tensions between Bengalis and Biharis the Urdu-speaking communities that had moved to East Pakistan from different parts of India after Partition and who were seen as pro-West Pakistan rose, which led to attacks on some Bihari communities. In March 1971, the Pakistan Army intervened to stem the growth of nationalist sentiments in the east and recruited local pro-Pakistan Bengalis and non-Bengalis, including members of the Islamic organisation Jamaat-e-Islami. Estimates for the total number of civilian and military deaths range from 500,000 to over 3 million. Millions of refugees fled to neighbouring India. On December 16, 1971 Bangladesh was created. Sheikh Mujibur Rahmans Role in Bangladesh Independence Sheikh Mujibur Rahman played a pivotal role in freeing the people of East Pakistan from West Pakistans oppression. He is called Father of the Nation for his leadership in the freedom struggle of Bangladesh, and is globally revered as Bangabandhu (Friend of Bengal). Born on March 17, 1920, Rahman became a folk hero in Bangladesh. In 1953, he was elected to the East Bengal Legislative Assembly from Gopalganj, and had gained a status for his advocacy for Bengalis and their mother tongue, Bangla. He went to jail several times for the cause of his people against injustice and the discriminatory policies of West Pakistani leaders. Throughout the 1950s and 60s, he spearheaded the Six Points Movement for East Pakistani autonomy, the Agartala Case, and the Eleven Points movement of students. Despite years of imprisonment, mass agitation led to elections and his release, solidifying his status as the undisputed champion of his people. When Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the defeated leader of Pakistan Peoples Party, conspired with Pakistans military dictatorship to postpone the opening of the National Assembly, Rahman led a civil disobedience movement in response. In a historic speech on March 7, 1971, he called for a movement that would ultimately lead his people to complete independence from Pakistan. On March 26, the army began its brutal crackdown, and Mujib called on his people to resist the army occupation. He was arrested without charges and taken to West Pakistan at midnight. He was released on January 8, 1972. After Bangladesh gained recognition from major countries, Mujibur facilitated its entry into the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement. Maintaining close ties with India, he envisioned Bangladesh as the Switzerland of the East. He was assassinated by army officers and discontented members of his own party on August 15, 1975. Subsequent administrations held only modest commemorations of Mujib, but his legacy was restored with the election of his daughter, Sheikh Hasina, and the Awami League government in 1996. Other Stalwarts of Bangladesh Independence Syed Nazrul Islam: Born in 1925 in Kishoreganj district, Syed Nazrul Islam served as the acting president of Bangladesh in the absence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman during the 1971 war. According to Daily Star, he secured first class in History and Law from the University of Dhaka in the very early years of Pakistan came into being. He was an active student political leader during his Dhaka University days. He entered the civil service of Pakistan in 1949 but resigned in 1951 to work as a Professor of History at the Anandmohan College in Mymensingh, where he also practised Law. Syed Nazruls real political career began when he joined the Awami Muslim League and participated in the Language Movement in 1952, for which he was arrested by Pakistani police. When Bangabandhu was arrested on March 25, 1971 by Pakistani Army, Syed Nazrul Islam escaped to Mujibnagar with other party leaders and proclaimed the independence of Bangladesh. He played a key role in leading the nationalist cause and coordinated the Mukti Bahini guerrilla forces and won support from India and other nations to achieve Bangladesh. He cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony with equal opportunities. He was gunned down by the Bangladesh Army in the Dhaka Central jail in the wee hours of November 3, 1975. Abu Sayeed Chowdhury: A former president, Saeed played a key role as a leading organizer of Bangladesh Liberation War. He resigned as vice chancellor of Dhaka University on 15 March 1971, to protest the killing of two students by the Pakistani Occupation Army on campus. In September 1971, he led a distinguished 16-member Bangladeshi delegation to the UN General Assembly. In 1985, he was unanimously elected chairman of the UN Human Rights Commission. He was a key figure in the anti-autocracy movement and authored five books on the Liberation War, human rights, and law. He also made significant contributions to various religious and charitable establishments in Tangail. He was the only son of former provincial assembly speaker Abdul Hamid Chowdhury. He was elected as President of Bangladesh on January 12, 1972. On April 10, 1973, he was again elected as President, and in the same year (December) he resigned and became a special envoy for external relations with the rank of a minister. Mohammad Mohammadullah: During the Bangladesh Liberation War, Mohammadullah was the political adviser of Syed Nazrul Islam who was the acting President. After the war, he was chosen to serve as the Bangladesh Constituent Assemblys (Ganoparishad) Deputy Speaker on April 10, 1972. After completing graduation, Mohammadullah began practicing law in Dhaka. In 1950, Mohammadullah joined the Dhaka Bar and later joined as an activist in the Awami Muslim League. Mohammadullah quickly rose through the ranks of the party and became a close associate of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. He was chosen by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to serve as the East Pakistan Awami Muslim Leagues office secretary in 1953, and he did so for 20 years until 1972. In 1966, Mohammadullah was a key figure in the Six Point Movement. November 12, 1972, Mohammadullah was chosen as the Speaker. On December 24, 1973, he was appointed interim President, and on January 24, 1974, he was elected President. Mohammadullah was chosen by those people involved in the August 1975 assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to serve as Vice President. At the age of 78, Mohammadullah passed away on November 11, 1999. At the time of his death, his wife, two daughters, and three sons were left behind. Khondaker Mostaq Ahmad: On August 15, 1975, six mid-level officers of the Bangladesh Army along with a few hundred soldiers assassinated Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. His entire family was killed along with him, except for his two daughters Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana who were in Germany. The officers, including Major Syed Faruque Rahman, Major Khandaker Abdur Rashid, and Khondaker Mostaq Ahmad, justified the coup as a historical necessity. Khondaker Mostaq addressed the nation and became the president of Bangladesh. On November 3, 1975, in a coup detat led by Major General Khaled Mosharraf, removed Khondaker Mostaq Ahmad from power. On November 4, 1975, Khaled was to promoted to Major General and made the Chief of Army Staff. Ziaur Rahman was retired from service and placed under house arrest in Dhaka Cantonment. Justice Abu Sadat Mohammad Sayem, the then chief Justice of Bangladesh, was made president and replaced Khondaker Mostaq Ahmad. Ziaur Rahman: Ziaur Rahman, fondly called Zia, was born on l9 January 1936 at Bagbari in Bogra. His father Mansur Rahman was a chemist, who used to work in a government department in Calcutta. He spent spent his childhood partly in the rural area of Bogura and partly in Calcutta. Ziaur Rahman was commissioned in 1955 as a second lieutenant. He served in Pakistan for two years. Then in 1957, he was transferred to the East Bengal Regiment. In the Indo-Pakistan War of 1965, Ziaur Rahman fought in the Khemkaran sector as the commander of a company. On his return home in 1970, Ziaur Rahman, then a major, was transferred to the Eighth East Bengal Regiment at Chittagong as its second in command. Major Ziaur Rahman rebelled against Pakistan on March 25, 1971. Then on March 26, he proclaimed the declaration of independence from the radio station of Kalurghat in Chittagong with the help of the workers of the Betar Kendra. He became the chief of army staff on August 25, 1975. One of his most contentious acts was the release of approximately 11,000 individuals accused of war crimes during the 1971 independence struggle, including 752 convicts, by cancelling the Bangladesh Collaborators (Special Tribunals) Order, 1972. He amended Article 38 of the Constitution on April 22, 1977, granting legitimacy to previously banned political parties such as the Muslim League and Jamaat-e-Islami. The law and order situation in the country deteriorated drastically during the post-independence governments tenure. He expanded the strength of armed forces substantially from less than 50,000 in 1974-75 to about 90,000 in 1976-77. On September 1, 1978, Ziaur Rahman floated a political party called Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP, with himself as its chairman. The second parliamentary elections of the country were held in February 1979 and BNP won 207 seats out of 300. He was assassinated in Chittagong on May 30, 1981 in an abortive army coup. He lies buried at Sher-e-Banglanagar, Dhaka. Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman announced on Monday that Sheikh Hasina had resigned and an interim government will be formed to run the country, urging people to maintain law and order. He also said he met political leaders and told them the army will take over responsibility. Thousands of people were seen on the streets of Dhaka, and many storming Sheikh Hasinas residence after she fled the country. Television pictures showed protesters attacking the head of a giant statue of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of independent Bangladesh. Rahman was assassinated in a coup on August 15, 1975. Waqar-uz-Zaman is the four-star general of the Bangladesh Army and the current Chief of Army Staff (CAS) of the Bangladesh Army since June 23, 2024. Before taking his current position as CAS, he was the Chief of General Staff with the Bangladesh Army. Previously, he served as the 15th Principal Staff Officer of Armed Forces Division. The Bangladesh Army has played a major role since the creation of the country in December 1971 by directly or indirectly controlling the governments. Let us look at the role of army over the years. The 1971 Liberation War After Pakistan gained Independence with two territories known as West Pakistan and East Pakistan, the struggle for Bengali rights started. But relations between the two regions turned sour due to Pakistans refusal to accept Bengali as a state language, economic disparity between the two parts, the hegemony of the West Pakistani ruling elite over Pakistan, martial laws among other reasons. Tensions rose in December 1970 when the Awami League party, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman (also known as Mujib) and based in East Pakistan, won the national elections but West Pakistan parties, namely the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), refused to hand over power. Tensions between Bengalis and Biharis the Urdu-speaking communities that had moved to East Pakistan from different parts of India after Partition and who were seen as pro-West Pakistan rose, which led to attacks on some Bihari communities. In March 1971, the Pakistan Army intervened to stem the growth of nationalist sentiments in the east and recruited local pro-Pakistan Bengalis and non-Bengalis, including members of the Islamic organisation Jamaat-e-Islami. Estimates for the total number of civilian and military deaths range from 500,000 to over 3 million. Millions of refugees fled to neighbouring India. On December 16, 1971 Bangladesh was created. Bangladesh History of Coups 1975: The countrys first Prime minister Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Sheikh Hasinas father, was assassinated along with most of his family members in a military coup that brought in a long period of military rule. Two more coups in the same year ended with General Ziaur Rahman seizing power in November. 1981: Ziaur Rahman was assassinated by rebels who stormed into a government guest house in Chittagong city where he was residing. The violence was believed to be the act of a small group of army officers, but the army itself remained loyal and suppressed the rebellion. 1982: Rahmans successor, Abdus Sattar, was ousted in a bloodless military coup led by Hussein Muhammad Ershad, who took over as chief martial-law administrator and later assumed the office of president. 2007: The army chief staged a military coup and backed a caretaker government that ruled the country for the next two years until Hasina took power in 2009. 2009: Unhappy with their wages and living conditions, revolting paramilitary forces killed more than 70 people in the capital Dhaka, most of whom were army officers. The mutiny, as it was called, which had spread to nearly a dozen towns, ended after six days as the angry guards surrendered following a series of discussions. 2012: The Bangladesh army said it had foiled a coup attempt by retired and serving officers that was driven by a campaign to introduce Sharia, or Islamic law, throughout the country. 2024: Thousands of protesters were up in the arms against Sheikh Hasinas government over the reservation quota announced for the kin of war veterans. Already dealing with unemployment, the quota was seen by thousands of students as an end of an opportunities. Road Ahead for Bangladesh Army The Army made considerable efforts to stay out of politics during the 16 years of reign of Sheikh Hasina. But with the Army back in power, its primary job will be to stabilise the country, facilitate the creation of new secular and political parties that can assume power. The Awami League, which won 271 of the 300 parliamentary seats in the January 2024 election, is mostly likely to break away. Many of its senior leaders are already facing corruption charges and will have limited political appeal at this time. However, a younger faction of the Awami League, many of them women, would be keen to assume role. The other national party, Bangladesh Nationalist Party, could see itself assuming power after Hasinas ouster. But its leader Khaleeda Zia, who has been release from jail, is terminally ill while her son, Tarique Rahman, has long been in exile in London to escape corruption charges. The other alternatives before the Army is the various Islamist groups, including the banned Jamaat-e-Islami party. Although these parties have been kept away from the power for many years, an Islamist-led coalition might win an election if it were held today. The Bangladesh Army will most likely to maintain a balance between claims for influence by India and China. Another potential for improvement of Bangladeshs relations is with the US, which Hasina had a long history of personal antipathy with. The US, however, may see the current circumstances of Bangladesh as an opportunity to rebuild influence by potential military assistance. But the major challenge for the Bangladesh Army lies in the civil war in Myanmar and the potential exodus of Rohingyas into their country to join the 1.2 million Rohingyas already taking shelter in Bangladesh. The Sheikh Hasina government was largely apathetic towards the civil war, but the Bangladesh Army could be keen to take up a key role in the conflict, particularly keeping Rohingyas out of Bangladesh. (with inputs from Reuters) External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told Parliament on Tuesday that ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina reached out to India for safe passage following her abrupt resignation in the wake of the political crisis in the country. The ministers statement came a day after Hasina landed at a military airfield at Hindon near Delhi after leaving Dhaka. Delivering a suo motu statement in the Rajya Sabha on the situation in Bangladesh, Jaishankar said that Hasina on Monday requested and received approval to travel to India at very short notice. On 5th August, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign, Jaishankar said in the Parliament. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi, he added. Suo-moto statement in Rajyasabha on the situation in Bangladesh. https://t.co/ceM41AEATE Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 6, 2024 19,000 Indian nationals Jaishankar informed the Parliament that the situation in Bangladesh is still evolving after Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zamans address where he spoke about assuming responsibility and constituting an interim government. We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students. The bulk of the students have already returned to India in the month of July on the advice of the High Commission, he said. In terms of our diplomatic presence, in addition to the High Commission in Dhaka, we have Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna and Sylhet. It is our expectation that the host government will provide the required security protection for these establishments. We look forward to their normal functioning once the situation stabilizes, he added. All-party meeting Responding to Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi while addressing an all-party meeting earlier today, Jaishankar said it was too early to say anything about foreign conspiracy. Jaishahkar, however, said, It is too early to rule in or rule out anything, but a Pakistani diplomat did change his social media profile picture to support the agitation in Bangladesh. Jaishankar said Sheikh Hasinas presence in India is a courtesy move while the central government is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh. About her arrival in India, Jaishankar told the all-party meeting that for now it is being ensured that Hasina settles down, recovers and feels comfortable enough to discuss her plans. We want to give her space and time, she has come at short notice, he said at the meeting, adding that there is no decision yet on where she will go next. Over 100 people have been killed in the violence across Bangladesh as chaos reigned supreme hours after Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister and fled the country on Monday, reports said on Tuesday amid signs of return to normalcy. The situation in Dhaka was largely calm on Tuesday morning after a day of unrest and a night of tension. Buses and other public transport were on the streets and traders were opening shops. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. As monsoons inundated the streets of Bengaluru, the citys traffic police have alerted passengers, especially the ones travelling on the north side of the city. Moderate to intense storms lashed parts of rural and urban Bengaluru as well as near Mysuru region on Monday evening, bringing the IT hub to a standstill due to widespread waterlogging resulting in traffic snarls. Bengalureans stuck in inordinate traffic jams shared their experience on various social media platforms about how just a couple of hours of thunderstorms had brought the city to a dead stop, and posted videos and updates from their respective regions across Karnataka on X. According to the IMD, on August 6 isolated heavy rain is very likely to occur in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada districts. Light to moderate rain is very likely in the interior districts of Karnataka. Stay tuned for latest Bengaluru traffic LIVE updates. Get real-time information on traffic jams and police advisories at news18.com. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest And Sheikh Hasina with our live blog. The political situation in Bangladesh is getting worse every day. Amid the turbulent situation in the Asian nation, thousands of Bangladeshis continue to cross the border for medical treatment in India. Despite the sudden suspension of import-export by the countrys government on Monday, passenger transit across the border remained open. It was closed after the country went under the rule of the Army as PM Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the nation. Every year many people come to India to get proper medical treatment in various hospitals across the country. As the unrest grew, cross-border movement increased significantly between the countries. In a conversation with Local 18, Bangladeshi citizen Md. Latif said, I came to India for treatment. I have an appointment with a doctor from Malda. The situation in our country is very bad. The Prime Minister has resigned and fled the country. The students of the country were protesting against a rule that was enforced by the government. In this situation, Indian residents are comparatively less inclined to visit Bangladesh. Indians presently in Bangladesh are also returning hurriedly by any means they are getting as transport services are suspended. The Indian citizens who are stuck there are presently using Land ports to return to their homeland. Deshdulal Chakraborty, an official at Mahadipur Land Port, said, Bangladeshi citizens often cross the border for medical treatment. However, the traffic has decreased significantly. Many Bangladeshis are stuck here since the transport facilities are suspended, and we are making appropriate arrangements for them. Through the Mahadipur Land Port in Malda, a large number of people cross the border daily. However, the number of passengers has reduced significantly in these few days. Presently, only Bangladeshi citizens are coming to India. Most of these people are coming here solely for medical treatment. Even those who are returning to Bangladesh at this time had mostly come to India for medical reasons. Despite the situation, several Bangladeshi residents mentioned that they have to visit India as there are lack of proper medical facilities in their country. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said Sheikh Hasinas presence in India is a courtesy move while the central government is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh and gauging its long-term impact. About her arrival in India, Jaishankar told the all-party meeting that for now it is being ensured that Hasina settles down, recovers and feels comfortable enough to discuss her plans. We want to give her space and time, she has come at short notice, he said at the meeting, adding that there is no decision yet on where she will go next. The entire opposition, in one voice, said it is on the same page with the government on this. Leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi asked a number of questions about the situation, which forced Hasina to resign and flee her country on Monday (August 5). According to INDIA bloc sources, Gandhi asked about the Centres plan for Hasina and how Indian concerns can be protected. The sources said the government cannot and would not want to divulge the details on the floor of the house, to which the opposition said it will cooperate. Top government officials, however, said Hasina will be staying in India for the next few days, pending a security review among other matters. After she was forced to leave Dhaka, India negotiated her safe passage following which she landed at the Hindon airbase near Delhi, where there are facilities for high-level dignitaries for a long stay. Highly placed sources said Hasina is not clear about her next move, as the UK has not been forthcoming. They earlier told CNN-News18 that she has full freedom to work out her next move and may also try to go to the Scandinavian countries. The sources said Hasina is open to moving to other European countries as well, and is exploring those options as she may not get asylum in the UK. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. With Schedule M coming into effect to improve the quality of India-made medicines, the drug regulator has now instructed officers across the country to begin audits of drug-making units to ensure they are meeting the new standards. While the government is planning surprise inspections at these units taking up to four days at a single firm, the companies will be chosen for risk-based inspections. India has around 10,000 pharmaceutical manufacturing units, of which over 80 per cent are micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Alongside this, the drug regulatory agency Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has made Schedule M compliance mandatory for issuing new manufacturing licenses and retention letters. ALSO READ | Schedule M to be Implemented to Improve Quality of Made-in-India Drugs, Makers to Get One-year Deadline The updated Schedule M, which is claimed to be stricter than the World Health Organizations (WHO) good manufacturing practices (GMP) in some aspects, was announced on December 28, 2023. India decided to adopt this rule after facing several allegations by global regulators, including contamination complaints by Gambia, Uzbekistan, the US, the Marshall Islands and Micronesia. Some of these allegations were even highlighted by WHOs drug alert raising questions over the quality of Indian drugs. The government had decided that firms below a turnover of Rs 250 crore will be given a year to make the transition, whereas companies above a turnover of Rs 250 crore will be asked to execute Schedule M in the next six months. CHECKS SHOULD BE MADE AT LEAST ONCE EVERY 3 YEARS: DCGI According to the letter sent by drug regulator Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi, seen by News18, the licensed premises must be inspected by both a central government and a state government inspector. They need to check that the premises meet the license conditions and rules at least once every three years or more often if needed based on risk. it is also required that the licensed premises shall be inspected jointly by the inspector appointed by the Central Government and State Government to verify the compliance with the conditions of licence and the provisions of the Act and these rules not less than once in three years or as needed as per risk based approach. The letter also makes compliance mandatory for the grant of fresh licences. It is also requested that in case of an application for a fresh manufacturing licence, the licence shall be issued to an applicant only after ascertaining the compliance with. Schedule M, said the letter dated August 2. It also says that the verification of compliance by the state needs to be carried out during the issue of the retention letter. It is pertinent to mention here that various categories of manufacturing licences are issued under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and these licences remain valid if the licensee deposits a licence retention fee every succeeding five years from the date of its issue, unless, it is suspended or cancelled by the licensing authority. during the consideration of the licence retention application, all the state and UT drugs controllers are requested to ensure the compliance under Schedule M Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said it was too early to say anything about the role of foreign conspiracy in the Bangladesh crisis. Responding to Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhis queries while addressing an all-party meeting convened by the Centre on the Bangladesh unrest on Tuesday morning, Jaishahkar added, It is too early to rule in or rule out anything, but a Pakistani diplomat did change his social media profile picture to support the agitation in Bangladesh. Briefing the MPs at the Parliament complex ahead of a statement on the ongoing crisis in the neighbouring country, he said the Centre was monitoring all kinds of possibilities. Jaishankar briefed the leaders on how the issue had panned out in Bangladesh and the prevailing situation in the country. He also spoke about how former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had moved to India and how India would take care of the Bangladeshi leader. Check live updates on the Bangladesh unrest here Jaishankar said that Sheikh Hasina was in India and the Indian government wanted to give her time to let the Indian government know what her future course of action would be. Taking to social media platform X, S Jaishankar stated, Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended. Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh.Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended. pic.twitter.com/tiitk5M5zn Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 6, 2024 ON EVACUATION OF INDIANS During the meeting, Jaishankar told the leaders that the central government was in touch with the Bangladesh Army as well. He said that it is a prevailing situation and the government will take appropriate action at the right time, according to sources. ALSO READ | Did This Astrologer Predict Sheikh Hasinas Political Turmoil In 2023? Heres What We Know The Opposition was on the same page as the meeting neared an end and it decided to back the government. According to sources, the leaders in the party meeting were informed that there are 20,000 Indian nationals in the country. According to sources, so far 8,000 Indian nationals have come back. Jaishankar informed the meeting that the Indian government is in touch with Indian nationals and the High Commission there continues to operate. The leaders were informed that the focus is on minorities and that they should be protected. When Congress leader Rahul Gandhi asked about Indias long-term and short-term strategy, the government stated that this was a progressive situation and they would continue to analyse it. BANGLADESH CRISIS Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation with Sheikh Hasina resigning from her post in the wake of mounting protests. The protests, majorly by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests. In Dhaka, the leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, in a bid to address Bangladeshs ongoing challenges. Meanwhile, Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening after tendering her resignation. It is not clear if Sheikh Hasina will continue to stay in Delhi or move to another location later. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. The Narendra Modi government seems to have gathered some much-needed support from the right quarters just before Thursday when it is speculated to bring a bill that is set to regulate Waqf Boards. On Monday, when many Indian politicians were glued to their television sets watching what was unfolding in neighbouring Bangladesh, a delegation of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC) comprising the most prominent sajjadanashins (spiritual heads) from various dargahs across India met union minister for minority affairs Kiren Rijiju and extended support for the proposed changes that will curb the powers of Waqf Boards. The delegation met Riijiju and BJPs national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla under the leadership of Syed Naseruddin Chishty, who is the chairman and successor of the present spiritual head of the Ajmer Dargah, to discuss a range of significant issues concerning the Muslim community. Rijiju himself posted a video on social media site X on Tuesday morning to say that they lauded & praised the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards the welfare of the entire community and minorities in general. What the minister seems to have avoided saying is there was unanimous backing for the proposed changes the government is planning to bring. Sources suggest they spoke on the proposed Waqf Act amendments adding that they were in favour of this for the sake of transparency and accountability. Sources said that Naseruddin Chishty recounted how dargahs are being left to fend for themselves and the cash-rich Waqf Boards havent extended a helping hand while others joined in. The delegation highlighted how the current Waqf system has victimised the dargahs and Muslims, making them question how despite having large tracts of properties, the Waqf bodies showed their earnings as only less than Rs 200 crore. A source said, In the meeting, there was a unanimity that Waqf Boards are using their clout for the rich and are essentially anti-poor Muslims who form vast sections of Muslim society. Apart from Naseruddin Chishty, those present in the crucial meeting were Ghulam Najmi Farooqi of the Nayeb Sajjadanashin Dargah, Abdul Qadir Qadri, Syed Ali Zaki Hussaini who hails from the Dargah Gulbarga Shareef, Ammhar Ahmad Nayar Miya of Sajjadanashin Rudauli Shareef in Uttar Pradesh, Fareed Ahmed Nizami of the Sajjadanshin Dargah Nizamuddin Auliya, Arshad Faridi of Nayab Sajjadanashin Dargah in Fathepur Sikri, Javed Khan who is secretary, AISSC, and Umar Razzaqui Sajjada Nasheen of the Dargah Bansa Shareef in Uttar Pradeshs Barabanki. BJPs national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla was also present. Sources say the clerics particularly lauded PM Modi for his leadership in challenging times when Indias immediate neighbourhood including Bangladesh has been witnessing political unrest. Waqf Boards have approximately 8.7 lakh properties totalling around 9.4 lakh acres in the country. In 2013, the UPA government gave more power to the Waqf Boards by amending the original Act. The Waqf Act, of 1995, was enacted to regulate auqaf (assets donated and notified as Waqf) by a wakifthe person who dedicates a property for any purpose recognised by Muslim law as pious, religious, or charitable. The proposed amendments will make the claims on properties made by Waqf Boards mandatorily verifiable, giving better representation to women in Waqf Boards, and involving district magistrates in monitoring Waqf properties to prevent misuse of the assets. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. As the general saying goes, a daughter is her daddys princess, and its no different for the Chief Justice of India. CJI DY Chandrachud on Monday revealed how he decided to adopt a vegan and cruelty-free lifestyle on the request of his two daughters. I have two daughters Priyanka and Mahi who are specially-abled and they continue to inspire me in whatever I do. I have gone vegan recently because my daughter said we should lead a cruelty free life, the Chief Justice of India revealed while speaking at the Delhi High Court on Monday. I dont buy any silk product or any new leather product. My wife doesnt buy any silk or leather products either, he added. He was speaking at the launch of Digital Law Reports of Delhi High Court as well as the inauguration of an outlet of Sagar Ratna, which would be run by neuro-diverse people associated with the Shaurya Foundation. Their Minds Are Razor Sharp: CJI On His Daughters Justice Chandrachud had adopted two daughters, and both are specially abled. The elder daughters name is Priyanka, while the younger one is Mahi. He had adopted them in 2015 while he was serving as the Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court. As per the CJI, the village to which these two young girls belonged to in Uttarakhand, didnt have a proper school and he had arranged for their education at his home in Allahabad. Later, when he shifted to Delhi, they first went to a school named Tamanna and later got admitted to the Sanskriti School. Though they are special needs children, their minds are razor sharpWe never imagined that these girls would come into our lives, but I feel that they have reshaped our lives in so many ways, CJI DY Chandrachud had said in a media interview. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Yueda Kia, the joint venture between Kia Corporation and China's Yueda Automobile Group, recently announced impressive sales figures for July 2024, with a total of 22,156 vehicles sold, representing a 39.9% year-on-year jump. This marks the second consecutive month in which sales have exceeded 20,000 units. In July alone, the company produced 21,400 vehicles, reflecting a 41.7% year-on-year surge. From January to July of 2024, Yueda Kia's cumulative sales reached 131,745 units, a significant 66.5% soar compared to the same period last year. During this period, the company produced 127,160 vehicles, shooting up by 115.5% over a year earlier. In response to the diverse travel needs of Chinese consumers, Yueda Kia has introduced several new models this year, including the Kia EV5 720 Long-range edition, a special edition of the Kia K3, and the Sonet entry-level SUV. This product lineup, featuring both oil-fueled and pure electric options, continues to meet the growing demand for versatile travel solutions in China. Kia EV5; photo credit: Yueda Kia The Kia EV5, launched as part of Kia's 80th-anniversary celebrations, stands out as the first model to debut in China, produced at Kia's advanced manufacturing facility in the country and distributed globally. The Kia EV5 has already been exported to developed countries such as Australia and New Zealand. Additionally, fleet versions of the EV5 have been delivered across various provinces in China, including Jiangsu, Guangdong, Zhejiang, Anhui, Hainan, Henan, Shaanxi, Xinjiang, Xizang, and Sichuan, providing high-quality mobility services to consumers. In addition to its electric vehicle models, Yueda Kia continues to innovate in the oil-fueled vehicle segment. The new K3's special edition, hitting the market in February, features comprehensive upgrades in comfort and smart technologies. In the second half of the year, Yueda Kia plans to launch several new models, including the 2024 K5 and the EV5 GT-Line, to cater to consumers' increasing demand for diversified and digitalized vehicles. Yueda Kia is also expanding its overseas business. The company has established an export portfolio including models like the EV5, Sportage, Seltos, K5, Sonet, and Pegas, which are mainly exported to markets in Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Chile, Colombia, etc. It has made export presence in more than 50 countries across the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Central and South America, and other regions. Beyond vehicle exports, Yueda Kia has been actively promoting engine exports. Since launching this business in December 2018, the company has exported over 300,000 engines to countries such as South Korea, Russia, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, India, and Vietnam. Moving forward, Yueda Kia aims to expand both vehicle and engine export volumes, increasing the number of export destinations to over 80 countries. The company targets achieving an annual export goal of 170,000 vehicles, positioning its Yancheng plant in Jiangsu province as a key global export hub for Kia. The High Commission in London on Tuesday issued an urgent advisory for Indian travellers in the wake of rioting across the United Kingdom, which has resulted in widespread damage and nearly 400 arrests. With disturbances affecting several areas, the advisory urged visitors to remain vigilant, stay updated with local news, and avoid regions experiencing unrest. The Indian mission said it was closely monitoring the situation and was available for assistance in case of emergencies. Stay vigilant and exercise caution Indian travelers would be aware of recent disturbances in some parts of the United Kingdom. The High Commission of India in London is closely monitoring the situation. Visitors from India are advised to stay vigilant and exercise due caution while travelling in the UK. It is advisable to follow local news and advisories issued by local security agencies, and to avoid areas where protests are underway, the Indian mission said in the advisory. Keir Starmer British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said violent protesters who had targeted Muslim communities would swiftly face the full force of the law as he sought to quell days of anti-immigration rioting. The fatal stabbing of three young girls in the northwest English town of Southport last week has been seized on by anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim groups, with disinformation spread online and amplified by high-profile far-right figures to spark disorder in towns and cities. Whatever the apparent motivation, this is not protest, it is pure violence and we will not tolerate attacks on mosques or our Muslim communities, Starmer said on Monday after an emergency meeting with police and prison chiefs. The full force of law will be visited on all those who are identified as having taken part. Police chiefs said they had arrested 378 people since the start of the unrest and warned of lengthy prison terms for those found guilty of violent disorder. Violence, social media posts The violence erupted last Tuesday after social media posts said the suspected attacker in Southport was a radical Islamist who had just arrived in Britain and was known to intelligence services. Police say the 17-year-old suspect was born in Britain and they are not treating it as a terrorist incident. The suspects parents had moved to Britain from Rwanda. Interior minister Yvette Cooper said rioters had felt emboldened to stir up racial hatred and that the protests were not a proportionate response to concerns about near-record levels of immigration. Reasonable people do not pick up bricks and throw them at the police, she said. There will be a reckoning for criminals & thugs who took part in violence on streets, burning buildings, attacks on mosques, looting shops & the whipping up of racist violence online.They do not speak for Britain & theyll pay the price for their crime.https://t.co/xrDa66Oe4j Yvette Cooper (@YvetteCooperMP) August 5, 2024 Protests, mostly involving a few hundred people, have continued across the country, with shops looted and mosques attacked. Cars have been set on fire and some unverified videos on social media have shown ethnic minorities being beaten up. Besides India, Australia and Nigeria were among the countries to issue warnings on Monday to citizens resident in or travelling to Britain. On Monday evening, protests spread to Plymouth in southwest England. Several hundred anti-immigration protesters wearing English and British flags faced off against a greater number of counter-protesters, kept apart by police in riot gear. Protesters threw bricks and fireworks and scuffled with police. Sky News said three police officers were injured. In Rotherham, northern England, protesters on Sunday tried to break into a hotel that housed asylum seekers in what Starmer called an act of far-right thuggery, following protests on Saturday in other English cities and in Belfast. (With agency inputs) Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has ruled that a domestic relationship under the Domestic Violence Act (DV) Act can be established through past cohabitation, and present cohabitation is not a requirement for the same. Justice Sanjay Dhar, presiding over the court, affirmed the maintainability of a domestic violence case filed under Section 12 of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act against Abdul Qayoom Mugloo (petitioner) by his wife Irfana (respondent no.1) and her daughters. The court noted that it is clear that domestic relationship would mean a relationship between two persons who are either living or have lived in past together in a shared household. The petition highlighted that Mugloo was married to Irfana in 2002, and two daughters were born out of the wedlock. It was alleged that Mugloo engaged in physical, economic and emotional abuse after their marriage was briefly dissolved and later resumed in 2011. Irfana also claimed that her husband mistreated her and their children, pressuring her to transfer property into his name and ultimately abandoning them without support. Initially, the second additional Munsiff, Srinagar, ordered Mugloo to pay interim monetary compensation to Irfana and her daughters. This order was subsequently modified to grant compensation only to Irfana as the daughters were found to be major. The petitioner challenged this order arguing that the proceedings under Domestic Violence Act were not maintainable because he had long left his wifes company and claimed that the case was an attempt to pressure him to withdraw a separate civil suit. The court found that the definition of domestic relationship under the Act includes past cohabitation in a shared household. Despite the current separation, the Court concluded that a domestic relationship existed based on their previous cohabitation. Therefore, the trial magistrates decision to proceed with the case was deemed appropriate. The court observed : Merely because the petitioner and respondent No.1 are not presently living in a shared household, it cannot be stated that there is no domestic relationship between the two. The court upheld the decision of the appellate court, stating: Once it is shown that the petitioner was in a domestic relationship with respondent No.1 at some point of time and respondent No.1 in her petition under Section 12 of the D.V Act has alleged acts of cruelty and domestic violence against the petitioner, it becomes a matter of trial as to whether such acts of cruelty have actually taken place. As a result, the court ruled that the case against the petitioner is maintainable under the Domestic Violence Act, and dismissed the petition finding no merit in it. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. A dead body was found in a suitcase at Dadar railway station in Mumbai on early Monday morning when the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) were conducting a luggage-checking operation. Two people, who were carrying the body in a suitcase on the train after committing the murder were apprehended by the Mumbai police. The body was completely wrapped in plastic and packed in a suitcase, the police noted. Investigation revealed that a dispute between the victim Arshad Ali Sheikh, a resident of Santacruz and the accused Jai Praveen Chavda and Shivjeet Surendra Singh over a female friend led to the murder. The killing took place in the jurisdiction of Pydhunie Police Station. The main accused, Jai Praveen Chavda had a fight with Arshad Ali Sheikh over a female friend at a party on Sunday night which escalated to murder. After committing the murder, the suspects planned to travel by Tutari Express train to dispose of the body, the police stated. Dadar Railway Police registered a case and arrested one of the suspects at the railway station. The other escaped but was later arrested in Ulhasnagar. The victim and both suspects are deaf-mutes and communicate using sign language. The police enlisted a sign language expert to assist in the interrogation, which clarified the motive for the murder. Further investigation into the case is underway and more details are awaited. (With ANI inputs) Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. From 2014 to 2024, a total of 5,297 cases have been registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), of which only 40 have seen convictions, the government told Parliament on Tuesday. The data shows that conviction in cases in comparison with registration is not even 1%. The data shared by the ministry of home affairs in Lok Sabha on Tuesday is based on information received from the Directorate of Enforcement (ED). Numbers through the years According to the data, 2021 and 2022 saw the highest registration of cases under PMLA: 1,166 and 1,074. Starting from 2014, data reveals that a total of 195 PMLA cases were registered that year. However, not a single case has seen acquittal or conviction. Cases registered in the next two years were 148 and 170, but still no acquittal or conviction. The number of cases went up to 171 in 2017 and two were acquitted that year while three were convicted. In 2018 there were 146 new cases but only two cases saw convictions. While the Covid pandemic hit the country in 2019, the number of cases registered rose to 188, with four convictions. The year 2020 brought a staggering 708 cases, but only three saw convictions. Then 2021 saw a peak, with 1,166 cases registered, but only two had convictions. In 2022, there were 1,074 cases and eight convictions. In 2023, the number of cases registered dropped to 934 while the number of convictions was nine. In 2024 so far, the year of general elections, the number of registered cases is 397, with one acquittal and nine convictions. Highest number of arrests from Delhi According to the ED data shared by the MHA, Delhi has seen the highest number of arrests under PMLA since 2016. In 2024 alone, the capital has had 36 arrests including of chief minister Arvind Kejriwal. While Delhi leads the list with a total of 90 arrests, it is followed by Maharashtra with a total of 43 arrests. West Bengal has 42 arrests and Rajasthan has 24. States and union territories that have not seen a single arrest under PMLA are Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. As the crisis unfolds, there is an air of uncertainty among those looking to cross the Bangladesh-India border. At the Petrapole border, Bangladeshi nationals told News18 on Tuesday that they were unsure of the future. A group of truck drivers was standing in a corner. One of them, Monta Ghosh, told News18: Last evening, the party office of Awami League on the other side was burned down. We left our trucks and came walking here. We dont know what to do. Another driver said, I have come from Gujarat. We transport wires and other electronic goods across the border. As the situation deteriorated we had to return. Mintu Maity, another driver, told News18: We have left our truck that side and we have come. Life is important. We dont know whether we can go back and bring the truck. But we first thought of our safety. Tuesday saw some trucks from Bangladesh unload goods. The drivers told News18: The BDR helped us. They put us in a safe space and we reached here in the morning. THE ESCAPE FROM BANGLADESH Sahid Ali of Barpeta was at a hotel in Jashore, which was set on fire. He jumped off the third floor and broke his leg. He had come to Petrapol in an ambulance. In the afternoon, people started to throw stones at the hotel. We then started to come down from the 11th floor. There was smoke everywhere as the hotel was set on fire. I jumped along with my brother. I broke my legs. As News18 was talking to truck drivers, the sound of bursting of firecrackers was heard from the other side. A local shopkeeper said, As the news of Sheikh Hasinas exit spread, people on that side burst firecrackers. VOICES OF CONCERN Petrapole (India)-Benapole (Bangladesh) is an important land border, both in terms of trade and passenger movement. Locals claim that they have been told to stop exports, although there is no official order. Ranjan Das, a resident of Jashor, broke down while speaking to News18. I came for treatment, but heard things are bad there. We are in minority and are being looted. I am really worried. Apurba Dutta, another Bangladeshi national, said, We are frequent visitors here. My family called to say things are not okay there. Mir Islam came to India five days ago for treatment. Hamid, the son of Mir, who was in a wheelchair, told News18: My father is very ill. It seems we have got freedom, but things should now be peaceful. A large number of people from Bangladesh come to Bengal for treatment. Indians who have visa are also returning from that side. Faisal Gulam Mohammad Shek from Gujarat, who went to Bangladesh as a tourist, said, I travelled there in an autorickshaw for 60 km. I want to come back to India. Jahanara Begum, an Indian who went there to meet her relatives, came from Jashore. Things were violent now. Some Awami league offices were attacked. Bangladeshi national Hussain Shah told News18: My father needs special medicine for heart so I came to India. BSF DG Daljit Singh visited the Petrapole border and met the senior officials. He also visited sensitive pockets, said sources, adding he asked for strict vigil to be maintained. With no trucks plying, business, too, has been hit. Meanwhile, at zero point, Sheikh Mujibur Rahmans plaque stands in the middle of the chaos. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Indian security swiftly prepared for any contingency after former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the violence-hit nation following her resignation on Monday. Hasina arrived in India for safety in an Air Force jet and is reported to remain in the country until granted political asylum in a third country, according to sources. Follow Bangladesh Unrest LIVE news here Indian Air Force (IAF) radars were actively monitoring air space over Bangladesh and detected a low-level-flying aircraft around 3:00 pm coming towards India. At around 6:30 pm, Bangladesh Air Forces C-130 transport aircraft AJAX1413 carrying Hasina and her sister reached Ghaziabads Hindon Air Base. Sources said that two Rafale fighter aircraft from the 101 squadron from Hashimara air base in West Bengal were airborne over Bihar and Jharkhand to provide safety to Hasinas jet aircraft. IAF and Army chiefs Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and Gen Upendra Dwivedi were monitoring the situation very closely, sources added. ALSO READ: Moms Disappointed: Sheikh Hasinas Son Reveals She Wont Return To Bangladesh | Exclusive A top-level meeting of top security officials was also held with intel agency chiefs, Gen Dwivedi and Integrated Defence Staff chief Lt Gen Johnson Philip Mathew. Hasina was greeted by the National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval at the Hindan air base. The two held an hour-long discussion on the current situation in Bangladesh and her future course of action. NSA Doval then left the airbase to brief a Cabinet Committee on a security meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was also informed about the developments throughout the day. (With ANI inputs) Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest And Sheikh Hasina with our live blog. Hariyali Teej is one of the auspicious festivals in Hindu religion, which is celebrated with great joy by all married women. It falls on Tritiya Tithi of Shukla Paksha during the Shravana month, typically occurring two days before Nag Panchami. This year, it will be celebrated on August 7. The festival symbolises the reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. On this day, women pray to Goddess Parvati for a happy married life. Even unmarried women fast in the hope of finding their ideal life partner. Married women visit their parents homes, wear new clothes, particularly green sarees, apply mehendi or henna, and adorn themselves with bangles. They prepare swings, which they use while singing traditional Teej songs. During this celebration, the parents of a married woman send Sindhara, a gift bucket, to their daughter and her in-laws. It includes homemade sweets, Ghewar, bangles, henna, and more. Because of this custom, Hariyali Teej is also called Sindhara Teej. This festival is predominantly celebrated in northern India, particularly in states such as Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan. Lets take a look at different styles of Mehndi that you can apply on this Teej. Subtle And Easy Design View this post on Instagram A post shared by bindass girl (@swaleha_dpz) Many women these days prefer simple and easy mehendi designs. For a straightforward approach, you can create a circle and fill it with floral or geometric patterns. Arabic Mehndi Design View this post on Instagram A post shared by Henna by Sharan (@hennabysharan_) This design never goes out of fashion. It remains trendy and timeless, ensuring you wont get bored of it. If youre looking for something light and unique, this design is a great choice. Floral Pattern View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anjum R Yeresimi (@ridha_mehendi_arts) This design is loved by everyone. The floral motifs can be combined with leaves to create a beautiful pattern. Full-Hand Mehndi https://www.instagram.com/p/C-C2YtdM0P_/?img_index=1 If you want to make a bold statement, a full-hand Mehndi design is the way to go. This design covers the entire hand, extending up to your desired length. It includes a mix of paisleys, flowers, and geometric shapes. It is perfect for those who want their mehndi to be the focal point of their festive look. Net Design View this post on Instagram A post shared by (@hanat_niema) This design offers a contemporary twist on traditional mehndi. This design features a grid-like pattern resembling a net which is further adorned with small flowers or dots. It is one of the trendy designs that looks both modern and sophisticated. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Abhishek Bachchan and Kareena Kapoor made their acting debuts together in the 2000 film, Refugee. The romantic drama was directed by JP Datta and was a huge hit. However, the shoot was not as seamless as one might think. Kareena Kapoor was sceptical about doing romantic scenes with Abhishek as she thought of him as a brother. For more updates: When Abhishek Bachchan Said Kareena Kapoor Ruined Him: I Will Never Forgive You For Yesteryear actress Mumtaz shared moments from her trip to Pakistan in April, where she met stars like Fawad Khan and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. The veteran actress also called for lifting the ban on Pakistani artists in India. During an interview with Zoom, Mumtaz had revealed that Fawad Khan booked an entire restaurant for her, and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, despite being unwell, sang for her. For more updates: Mumtaz Says Fawad Khan Booked An Entire Restaurant For Her During Pakistan Trip: It Was Just Him Actor Divya Seth Shahs daughter, Mihika Shah, passed away suddenly on Monday, August 5, in Mumbai. According to sources close to the family and reported by India Today, Mihika initially developed a fever, which was followed by a seizure. The family is devastated by the unexpected loss and has scheduled a prayer meeting for August 8. For more updates: Sushma Seths Granddaughter Mihika Shah Passes Away, Mother Divya Seth Shares Heartbreaking Post Payal Malik has left netizens disappointed and upset. On Tuesday morning, YouTuber and Bigg Boss OTT 3 fame shared a joint post on her Instagram handle with her husband, Armaan Malik. The two dropped a couple of romantic pictures in which Armaan was seen holding Payal close as they posed for the camera. In the caption, they dropped red heart emojis. For more updates: Payal Malik Gets Trolled For Sharing Romantic Pictures With Armaan Malik: Aab Divorce Kahan Gaya? Social media is in a frenzy as there is buzz that Dhanush is in talks with the Russo Brothers to star in Avengers Doomsday. While neither Dhanush nor the Russo Brothers have made any statements yet, the actors fans have become eager to see him star alongside Robert Downey Jrs Dr Doom. For more updates: Dhanush To Star Alongside Robert Downey Jr In Russo Brothers Avengers Doomsday? Know Here Ajay Devgn and Sanjay Dutts 2012 comedy film, Son of Sardaar, is getting a sequel and the shoot has now begun. Ajay Devgn recently took to his Instagram to announce the Muhurat of the film. Helmed by Vijay Kumar Arora, the film has an extensive shoot schedule in the UK, followed by India. Ajay shared a video with the caption, The journey of #SonOfSardaar2 begins with prayers, blessings, and an amazing team. In the video, Ajay could be seen offering prayers at a gurdwara while Mrunal Thakur was seen performing bhangra on stage. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ajay Devgn (@ajaydevgn) While Sanjay and Ajay will be seen as Billu and Jassi again, the story will be a fresh one. A source had earlier told Mid-Day, That said, since the characters of Billu and Jassi were loved by the audiences, the two actors are expected to stick to their characters names. Their dynamics, however, will be different. While the two were at loggerheads with hilarious results in Son of Sardaar, this time, their rivalry will be intense, with Sanjays role leaning towards the antagonist. Off screen, the two actors are close friends, and Ajay has made sure that Sanjay has a fantastic role in the second part. Ajay, Sanjay and Mrunal Thakur, who has been roped in as the female lead, will kick off a 50-day schedule in Scotland. It is famous for its castles, historic towns, lochs, and beaches, with many episodes of Game of Thrones, and much of the Harry Potter franchise having been shot there, the source added. The direction team had done a recce earlier this year, and finalised the scenic towns of Glencoe and Glenfinnan, as well as sites such as the Culross Palace, Doune Castle, Preston Mill and Falkland Palace. The locations form a fitting backdrop for the kind of action and drama that the director has in mind. A few romantic songs featuring Ajay and Mrunal will also be shot in the countrys picturesque locales, added the source. The film will be directed by Vijay Kumar Arora and comes nearly 12 years after the original. The first film featured Ajay Devgn trying to win Sonakshi Sinhas hand in marriage by trying to impress her older brother, played by Sanjay Dutt. However, as per reports, Sonakshi Sinha will not be a part of the sequel. A release date for the film is yet to be decided. Alia Bhatt never fails to impress all with her simplicity and style. On Tuesday afternoon too, the Bollywood actress was snapped by the paparazzi in Mumbai when she impressed everyone with her charming looks. Alia sported a green tank top and layered it with a blue denim jacket with matching jeans. She tied her hair into a small bun and looked dapper in black goggles. Alia was seen waving at the paparazzi as she also smiled for the cameras. Soon after the video was shared, fans rushed to the comments section to shower love on their favourite actress. She looks pretty, one of the fans wrote. Several others dropped red-heart emojis. Check it out here: Meanwhile, Alia is currently shooting for her Spy Universe movie Alpha. Last month, it was reported that the actress is shooting for an action sequence with Bobby Deol for the movie. As reported by IANS, Alia and the films antagonist, Bobby Deol are currently in Mumbai where they are shooting on a heavily guarded set in Film City. It is a ferocious action sequence. You can call it brutal. It is a no-holds-barred face-to-face action sequence between Alia Bhatt and Bobby Deol. There will be blood, a source cited by the news agency claimed. Besides this, Alia will also be reuniting with her actor-husband Ranbir Kapoor for Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Love and War. The film also stars Vicky Kaushal in the lead. Earlier this year, in an exclusive interview with News18 Showsha, Alia talked about the film and her reunion with Ranbir when she said, I, as an audience, am more excited to see him [Bhansali] and Ranbir collaborate, again, after so many years. I am like, wow, whats that going to be like? Talking about reuniting with Vicky Kaushal, Alia continued by saying, Vicky and I coming together again; Ranbir and Vicky created magic with Sanju. So, it is a lot of combinations. Alia Bhatt also has Jigra with Vedang Raina in her pipeline. She will also be seen in Jee Lee Zara with Katrina Kaif and Priyanka Chopra. However, there is no update on the films shoot schedule as of now. Beijing (Gasgoo)- Chinese automaker Changan Automobiles monthly sales in July 2024 amounted to 170,631 vehicles, indicating a 17.86% year-on-year drop, according to the companys announcement on August 6. Photo credit: Changan Automobile Despite the overall downturn, Changan Automobiles new energy vehicle (NEV) sector still recorded prominent performance in July. Of the vehicles sold in the past month, 45,418 units were NEVs under the automakers wholly-owned brands, up 14.94% from a year ago. In the first seven months of this year, Changan Automobiles wholly-owned brands sold a total of 344,483 NEVs, which surged 59.8% year on year. In the Jan.-Jul. period of this year, Changan Automobile's cumulative sales volume came in at 1,504,682 vehicles, which rose 5.71% from the year-ago period. Cumulative sales of vehicles under the companys wholly-owned brands totaled 1,260,508 units in the seven-month period, representing a 5.82% hike year-over-year. Among these vehicles sold in the period, 919,075 units were passenger cars, climbing up 1.77% from that of the previous year. In the first seven months of 2024, Changan Automobiles wholly-owned brands shipped 228,607 vehicles to overseas markets, which leapt 67.65% year over year. As to Changan Automobile's joint ventures, Changan Ford and Changan Mazda posted a respective 18.53% and 12.42% dip in July sales, which stood at 16,799 units and 4,324 units. Amitabh Bachchan has shared a new post, marking his first post since Jaya Bachchan fought with Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar. The actor took to X and shared what seems to be a cryptic note about the power of time. Although it doesnt seem connected with Jaya Bachchan and her battle over her name in the Parliament, Big B seems might be referring to his busy schedule courtesy the new season of Kaun Banega Crorepati. The veteran superstar returned to the platform on Tuesday evening to share a post about the power of time. In Hindi, the actor wrote, ! (Time is very powerful! Making time for work). He followed the post on X by a post on his blog, where he shared his thoughts on time. He also shared an update about his whereabouts. T 5094 ! Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) August 6, 2024 Running to work running back from work running running and running .. but even at work finding that time to connect to the well wishers and the lovely Ef .. my gratitude and love, Amitabh wrote. The variety of the different works is a wonderful balancer .. film , TV , Music , ad., campaigns , and the most worthy and respectful the recordings of Babu jis words .. they live a life of eternity .. and one never fails to get back to them at the slightest pretext .. their visionary thought .. their references to the future and the poetry in them is irreplaceable, he added. Big B concluded the post by saying, Reciting them to them that understand the words and find themselves in them are the greatest challenge and wonder of the poet .. it be the gift of the Almighty .. My love and more. About Jaya Amitabh Bachchan controversy: For the unversed, Jaya Bachchan came under the spotlight last week when the actor-politician firmly objected to Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh addressing her as Shrimati Jaya Amitabh Bachchan. She reminded the assembly that her identity stands independently of her husbands name. However, Harivansh Narayan Singh noted that her name is Jaya Amitabh Bachchan in the documents she submitted. A few days after, Jaya was seen poking fun at the controversy, causing a few laughs in the Parliament as well. But it was short-lived after Jaya snapped at Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar when he again addressed her with Amitabhs name in it. The Vice President suggested she changes the name on the election certificate. However, Jaya refused to do so. In response, Jaya Bachchan said, No, sir. Im very proud. Im very proud of my name and my husband and his achievements. It signifies abha Jo mit nahi sakti. So, dont worry. Ye drama aap logo ne naya shuru kiya hai yeh pehle nahi tha (This is a new drama). Rock star Bryan Adams is set to commence his highly anticipated India tour in Kolkata on December 8th, 2024. Fans of the acclaimed musician can look forward to an electrifying performance featuring tracks from his latest album, So Happy It Hurts. Adams took to Instagram to share his excitement about the tour, stating, Im so excited to announce that I will be coming back to India with my So Happy It Hurts tour in December 2024. Initially, Kolkata was not included in his tour plans, but recent updates reveal that the city will indeed host the tours opening show. Rajdeep Chakraborty, who is organising the event, confirmed the news to News18. We are very excited; we contacted Mahesh Bhupathis team, who is bringing him to India, and convinced Bryans team. Kolkata is the cultural capital of Indiahow could he miss it? Chakraborty explained. The concert will take place at Aquatica, with extensive arrangements in progress to ensure a memorable experience. This tour marks Bryan Adams sixth visit to India but his first performance in Kolkata. Fans can expect to hear some of his greatest hits, including Summer of 69, Please Forgive Me, and Everything I Do (I Do It for You). Despite the focus on his new album, the inclusion of these classics is sure to delight longtime followers. A social media teaser campaign for the event has already begun, generating considerable buzz and anticipation. Organisers are preparing for a significant turnout, and online booking for tickets will be available soon. With Bryan Adams track record of dynamic performances, this tour promises to be a highlight in the cultural calendar of Kolkata. Social media is in a frenzy as there is buzz that Dhanush is in talks with the Russo Brothers to star in Avengers Doomsday. While neither Dhanush nor the Russo Brothers have made any statements yet, the actors fans have become eager to see him star alongside Robert Downey Jrs Dr Doom. Dhanush has previously worked with the Russo Brothers for The Gray Man and received a lot of praise for his performance. Now, fans are expecting to watch him in the Marvel film in another pivotal role. Xclusive #Dhanush Next Hollywood Film Dhanush acted in the movie #TheGrayMan directed by Russo Brothers. This combo combines again #RussoBrothers are now in talks to rope in Dhanush for a role in #AvengersDoomsday. If this happens, it will definitely add pic.twitter.com/xeLBoigNFU Movie Tamil (@MovieTamil4) August 6, 2024 Talks come about that #Dhanush might play a role in the upcoming Russo Brothers #AvengersDoomsday, Dhanush had already worked in the Russo brothers previous film #TheGrayMan. pic.twitter.com/k4m4V1b5v8 CINEMA 360 (@Cinemaa_Updates) August 6, 2024 EXCLUSIVE BUZZ:- #DHANUSH NEXT BIG STEPDHANUSH 3RD HOLLWOOD FILM WITH HUGE SCALE #GREYMAN combo combines again- #RussoBrothers are now in talks to rope in Dhanush for a SPECIAL role in #AvengersDoomsday.THIS GONNA BE BIGGER THAN EVER BEFORE#MCU #AvengersDoomsday pic.twitter.com/Id6cBEUvnA filmrockers (@FFilmrockers) August 6, 2024 The Russo Brothers, Joe and Anthony Russo are making a comeback into the MCU. Not only them, but Robert Downey Jr is also making a comeback to the franchise. Robert Downey Jr is returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe to play Doctor Doom. The actor, who previously played Iron Man in the MCU, will be seen playing Dr Doom in Avengers: Doomsday. Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige and Robert Downey Jr confirmed the news at San Diego Comic-Con 2024. RDJ went to Hall H at the SDCC and unveiled himself as Fantastic Four villain Doctor Doom on stage. If were going to bring Doctor Doom to the screen he is one of the most complex characters, most entertaining characters in all of fiction, Anthony Russo said, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. If were going to do this then we are going to need the greatest actor in the world. As proof of the unimaginable possibilities of the Marvel Universe, we give you the one person who could play Victor von Doom he added before RDJ took centre stage and unveiled himself as Doctor Doom. RDJ was seen sporting the iconic green Doctor Doom robe and a metal mask. He took off the mask to announce his return, leaving fans in the room screaming. New mask, same task, he said, as he confirmed his MCU comeback. What can I say, I like playing complicated characters, he teased. The Hollywood Reporter stated RDJ is returning for two Avengers films. The Oppenheimer actor will be working with the Russo Brothers in Avengers: Doomsday, set to release in May 2026, and will seemingly reprise his role for Avengers: Secret Wars, eyeing a May 2027 release. Robert Downey Jr and the Russo Brothers have worked in Captain America: Civil War (2016), Avengers: Infinity War (2018), and Avengers: Endgame (2019). Actor-filmmaker Nagendra Babu is considered to be an important part of South Indian cinema, belonging to the superstar Konidela family. He recently made an appearance at a promotional event of the film Committee Kurrollu, along with his daughter Niharika Konidela, who is its producer. At the event, the actor spoke about his film family and how it has been dominating the Tollywood industry. As per reports, the pre-release event of the film was held on Monday at the Pithapuram constituency, attended by the cast and crew of Committee Kurrollu. Naga Babu praised his daughters judgment as a producer and said that the new faces will bring freshness to the release. He liked the fact that newcomers were selected for the film. Continuing the conversation, the actor stated that this industry does not belong to anyone and any talented person can achieve success here. He said, Industry is not our fathers propertyanyone can come if he has talent. His statement is now receiving a lot of attention among the fans and the industry people. The film is being made under the direction of Yadu Vamsi, who has also penned its story. The cast includes Sai Kumar, Goparaju Ramana, Sharanya Suresh, Sri Lakshmi, Teena Sravya, Prasad Behra, Kota Jayaram, Kittayya, Eshwar Rachiraju, Vishika and many others. It is being produced by Jayalakshmi Adapaka, Niharika Konidela, Padmaja Konidela and Ramesh Manyam under the banner of Pink Elephant Pictures. Anudeep Dev has given the music in the film and the cinematography is done by Edurolu Raju and the editor is Anwar Ali. The film is being released on August 9. Reports further said that Naga Babu only heard the story of Committee Kurrollu at the insistence of his daughter Niharika and ended up liking it. Nagendra Babus last release was Peddha Kapu 1, which was written and directed by Srikanth Addala. The film stars Virat Karrna and Pragathi Srivatsava as the leads. It was produced under the banner of Dwaraka Creations and was released theatrically last year. Kamal Haasan will not host Bigg Boss Tamil season 8. The Kalki 2898 AD actor confirmed the news in a statement on social media. He shared the reason behind taking a break from the reality show as well. The Tamil superstar has hosted Bigg Boss Tamil since its inception for the Tamil audience. So it comes as a heartbreak that fans will not see him as a host this year. In the statement shared on X, Kamal Haasan said, Dear Viewers, With a heavy heart, I wish to inform you that I will be taking a small break from our journey that began 7 years ago. Due to prior cinematic commitments, Im unable to host the upcoming season of Bigg Boss Tamil. I have been privileged to reach you in your homes. You have showered me with your love and affection, for which you have my everlasting gratitude. Your spirited and passionate support of the contestants is at the core of what makes Bigg Boss Tamil one of the best television reality shows in India, he shared. The actor shared, Personally, being your host has been an enriching association, where I have honestly shared my learnings. I will always be grateful for this learning experience. I sincerely thank each one of you and the contestants in the show for our time together. Lastly, I would like to thank the wonderful team at Vijay TV, as well as every crew member who has been involved in making this enterprise a grand success. I am sure this season will be yet another success. While Kamal has announced his decision, the makers are yet to announce the new host. Kamal Haasan has a number of projects in the making. These include the sequel of Kalki 2898 AD and Indian 3. He also has Thug Life in the pipeline. Actress-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut met with the Himachal Pradesh flood victims on Tuesday and was visibly emotional. The actress, also a BJP MP from Mandi, reached the flood-hit areas of the state to gauge the impact of the floods and inspect the relief work. During the visit, she met several residents who lost their homes in the floods. In one of the pictures, Kangana was seemingly in tears as she consoled a victim. In another photo, she checked the gravity of the losses and ensured help was available. Kangana shared the photos on Instagram, saying, People have lost everything In the vastness of that loss I feel immense pain and grief Our hope is Narendra Modi. In another stories, she added, Humans are so vulnerable before the nature Oh mother earth be kind to us. On X, she shared the photos and wrote, People have lost everything, in the vastness of that loss I feel immense pain and grief. Kangana also reposted a video of a group of locals building a makeshift bridge and wrote, It is also very shameful that flood affected people are not getting any help from the state government wherever I am going in flood affected areas, helpless people are complaining about the cruel and unconcerned treatment of the state government towards them. It is tragic and inhuman. People have lost everything, in the vastness of that loss I feel immense pain and grief. pic.twitter.com/Mfh1Gg3YUq Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) August 6, 2024 It is also very shameful that flood affected people are not getting any help from the state government wherever I am going in flood affected areas, helpless people are complaining about the cruel and unconcerned treatment of the state government towards them. It is tragic and https://t.co/gambG7fZ1i Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) August 6, 2024 Last week, Himachal Pradesh was hit by multiple cloudbursts, one of which took place in Kullu. The area falls under Kanganas political constituency, Mandi. Speaking exclusively with CNN News18, Kangana said, Its very disheartening. Last time also we had severe flooding in the areas of Himachal Pradesh. This time also, we are waking up to very alarming situations. Last night has been disastrous, especially in the Kullu district, which comes under Mandi constituency. As you know, Mr Narendra Modi ji, our Prime Minister ji has looked after the whole situation and he has made sure people who are missing, they are being found, things are being restored and people are being rescued. All of that he is looking after. Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon was spotted at Mumbai airport in the early hours of Tuesday, returning from her birthday celebration in Greece. The actress, who has been making headlines for her rumoured romance with Kabir Bahia, was seen in a chic black outfit, capturing the attention of netizens. Dressed in a sleeveless, black collared dress with a zipper running down the front, Kritis outfit exuded both comfort and style. The dress featured deep pockets and a relaxed fit, paired with black sneakers, making it an ideal choice for travel. Her minimal makeup and loose, straight hair added to her effortlessly stylish appearance. Kriti was seen adjusting her hair and waving to fans as she walked through the airport. A video shared by celebrity photographer Viral Bhayani showed Kriti graciously obliging fans with selfies. Kritis return from Greece follows a week of heightened social media buzz, triggered by a video that surfaced on Reddit. The video allegedly showed a woman in a red cover-up smoking in Greece, with users speculating that the woman was Kriti Sanon. This sparked a range of reactions online, with some netizens indifferent to the act, while others criticised the invasion of privacy. One user commented, As long as she doesnt promote it. Its whatever, while another added, Theres something so distasteful about famous people being filmed on holiday without their consent. A third user simply stated, I dont see your point. People smoke, so what? Why is that an issue? She is on vacation; she can do anything she wants that is not illegal. Despite the speculation and scrutiny, neither Kriti nor Kabir Bahia has made any official statement regarding their relationship. The viral photos and video from their Greece trip have elicited mixed reactions from fans, with some expressing concern over privacy invasion and others celebrating the possibility of Kriti finding happiness in her personal life. Kusha Kapila opened up about her life after she and Zorawar Singh Ahluwalia announced their divorce. The Thank You For Coming actress revealed she shut herself from any opinions coming her way. However, her mother had to tackle a lot of public opinions. She said her mother had her own circles and there were bound to be conversations around her divorce in those spaces. The social media content creator-turned-actress opened up about her life after her separation while talking about how the society is unkind to women during their difficult times. Speaking with Fever FM, Kusha said, Unkinder to women, that society is anyway so I think that is something my mother had to go through. I completely shut myself to opinions or anything. I didnt have the bandwidth for it. So I am sure my mother can speak very clearly about it. She had to speak to relatives and speak to society. She has her own life she goes to the temple or to the park, she has her own social communities where she had to face opinions and that is how the world works. This is the reality, this is the truth of where we live in and the times we live in. As much progress is happening and we hope for it to happen, somethings pretty much remain the same, she added. Kusha explained that she has realised she has no control over internets reactions to topics and subjects. The other aspect of it is that, you cant pick and choose what is going to happen to you online, especially if you have opened up your world and life to a lot of people. You can alter how you share your life now, going forward, realising the consequences of sharing your private life with people but I dont think you get to pick and choose. It is unkind, it is unfair, that is there, assumptions will be made, people will speak on behalf of you and then you are like, What do I give explanation for? These are a range of topics.' the actress explained. So at some point, you have to pull back. You should realise that people around you should know your truth. The people you truly care for, the people who will be standing with you during your good times, your celebrations, your wins and losses, and hopefully down the line, who will be around your death bed, those are the people you care about, she concluded. Earlier this year, Kusha said she was terrified the day she was going to announce her divorce. She said she had got a call from a media publication who threatened to make the news of her divorce public. This forced her to go public with her split. At the time, her father and her ex-husband Zorawar stood by her side to help ride the tide. Kusha Kapila and Zorawar Singh Ahluwalia dated for a few years before they got married in 2017. The parted ways last year. Mumtaz was one of the most popular actresses in the 1960s and 1970s. She worked with the biggest stars, including Rajesh Khanna and Jitendra. While her work spoke for her, a journalist once meddled with her personal life, accusing that she doesnt have a father. Renowned journalist Devyani Chaubal had once gone on record to claim that Mumtaz doesnt have a father. The claim left Mumtaz furious and she eventually went to court. The actress was seen shooting for a song with Rajesh Khanna for Aap Ki Kasam. In between the shots, she sat down for an interview and revealed that she had enough of mudslinging from Devyani and decided to put an end to it by suing her. In the video, which seems like a project done by an international documentary maker, Devyani was seen writing a column on Mumtaz which said, Of screen, I have never heard of Mumtazs background. Her father is never heard of. Weve constantly heard of Naaz, Mumtazs mother, mostly from the elderly men. When the documentary maker asked Mumtaz about the piece and if it was true that she was taking Devyani to court. Mumtaz said, Yeah, I did. I was tolerating from many years and I think it is too much now. So I thought about it. I thought lets do something, some thrill (laughs). Asked if the claim hurt her, Mumtaz admitted, I was very hurt. It is very wrong. Well, they think (it is) their business, they just want to sell their magazines. She said she is not frightened that she is taking Devyani to court. She should be frighten, not me, Mumtaz said. Watch the video below: In an interview with IANS in 2012, Mumtaz clarified that her father was around. Of course. People believed I was fatherless because Devyani Chaubal wrote, Mumtaz does not have a father. I took her to court. My father, who lived in Hyderabad, promised to come to court to prove her wrong. He said, Hum ayega court mein,' she said. However, he did not have to come to court because the magazine Devyani worked for apologised to Mumtaz and her family. No, the magazine and Devyani apologised publicly. I forgave them. If someone wrongs me and realises it, I am ready to forgive. But I will never tolerate nonsense, she said. Yesteryear actress Mumtaz shared moments from her trip to Pakistan in April, where she met stars like Fawad Khan and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. The veteran actress also called for lifting the ban on Pakistani artists in India. During an interview with Zoom, Mumtaz had revealed that Fawad Khan booked an entire restaurant for her, and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, despite being unwell, sang for her. Mumtaz shared how warmly Pakistani artists treated her. She mentioned that Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, despite being unwell, sang for her, which made her feel very special. She added that Fawad Khan reserved an entire restaurant just for her, with only him, his wife, and child present. She recalled, Rahat saab was not well when we met. But he insisted on singing for me. I felt very special. Mujhe laga abhi bhi main Mumtaz hoon (I felt I am still that Mumtaz), said an elated Mumtaz, adding, Do you know what he (Fawad) did? He reserved an entire restaurant for me. It was just Fawad, his wife and child with me at the restaurant. Mumtaz had also shared photos with Fawad. They were seen chatting while sitting on a sofa. While she wore a black top and maroon pants, Fawad was seen in a black kurta-pyjama, with a navy blue shawl draped over his shoulders. Fawad, who became an instant favourite with Pakistani dramas and was briefly seen in Hindi films, the last appearance being Ae Dil Hai Mushkil co-starring Anushka Sharma, Ranbir Kapoor and Aishwarya Rai in 2016, now stars in the supernatural show Barzakh. I have always been very thankful to fans who have waited for me and I apologise for making them wait for so long. But it was not in my hands, the actor told PTI in a Zoom interview. Im a firm believer that everything has its own time You say that absence makes the heart grow fonder but we also have another saying, aankh ojhal, pahaad ojhal (out of sight, out of mind). This also happens, he added. Popular media personality, businesswoman and actress Paris Hilton is also a loving mother of two children. At present, her little daughter London is winning hearts online. The star recently shared an endearing video clip of her daughter on Instagram and its nothing short of delightful. On Monday, Hilton posted a series of sweet mother-daughter moments from their vacation. The photos and videos show Paris cradling her daughter in her arms while they enjoy a cruise. In the images, Paris is wearing a stylish long black shrug adorned with palm tree prints over a black bikini. She complemented her look with a Chanel bandana and cat-eye sunglasses. Meanwhile, baby London looked adorable as ever in a printed blue overall with a crown perched on her head. The photos capture the mother gazing at the water from their ship while posing for the camera. One video shows Paris trying to engage in conversation with her daughter, followed by gentle kisses. Another video clip features Paris holding London and moving around the cruise, followed by a drone. London is all smiles and clearly having a great time throughout the video. Check out the actress post here: Before this, just last month, Hilton shared another sweet moment with her daughter with a video clip while they travelled to London. She set it to Billie Eilishs GRAMMY and Oscar-winning Barbie song What Was I Made For. The video captures Hilton lovingly leaning over her daughter, who is seated and gently touching her mothers face. In this video, both mother and daughter are dressed in matching printed outfits, with London sporting a cute bow on her head. Paris tenderly says, I love you, before kissing her daughters hand. Take a look at it here: Paris Hilton and entrepreneur Carter Reum reportedly exchanged vows in November 2021 in a grand ceremony at a private estate in Los Angeles. They welcomed their first child, son Phoenix, via surrogate on January 16, 2023. Less than a year later, in November 2023, they expanded their family with the arrival of their daughter, London. Salman Khan had a serious security scare recently with gunmen from the Lawrence Bishnoi Gang targeting his Mumbai home. But heres a tidbit from the past: as a child, Salman once caught an intruder raiding his house. In a bizarre twist, a young Salman fed the hungry thief before calling the police. In an old interview on Preity Zintas show, Up Close & Personal with PZ, Salman shared tales of unexpected guests hanging out at his home, including a mix of friends and complete strangers. One unforgettable incident involved a rookie thief who decided to strike during a house banquet, only to be caught by Salman himself. He said, One night, after a grand party, Arbaaz and I returned to our bedroom and went to sleep. Suddenly, I woke up to see a large shadow looming over us, moving around comically. I woke Arbaaz up, and told him to stay silent. Then, a man emerged from the shadow, and he didnt look that big. He seemed to be dancing. I gestured to Arbaaz that at the count of three, wed jump him. We managed to overpower him, and tied him up. The thief, caught with a stolen Walkman and just Rs 5, admitted it was his first robbery. Salman, noticing the thief hadnt eaten, gave him some food. When his mother came in and asked why he was feeding the thief, Salman explained he was just trying to be kind. He recalled, By then, my mother had come, and she was like, Who is this man? I told her that hes a thief, and she was like, Why are you feeding him? Salman said he told the thief he would call the police after feeding him. It was around 6 in the morning now, and just as we were going to take the thief to the police station, the thief suggested that instead of taking him there and being held up by all the paperwork, we should just tie him up outside. He asked us to tie a single knot on him, and just as the cops were coming, he managed to wiggle out of it and escape, he added. Ajay Devgn has started shooting his next film Son of Sardar 2 from today. He even shared a video on his social handle. Comedy-drama has been in the news for a long time. Amid this a report is coming in that Sanjay Dutt has been removed from the film owing to his UK visa rejection. Mid-Day has reported that Ravi Kishan has replaced him. Mrunal Thakur will be seen as the female lead. According to a report by Midday, Sanjay Dutt has been excluded from the film due to a rejected UK visa application linked to his past incarceration. The source disclosed that Dutt had previously faced difficulties securing a UK visa as well. The film is being filmed in Scotland. The source also indicated that Sanjay Dutts visa issues might affect the filming of Housefull 5, which is scheduled to start shooting in London in September. When asked if producer Sajid Nadiadwala would need to find a replacement for Dutt, the source explained, Sajid has chosen a wiser route. While the shooting with the cast begins in London, all of Sanjus portions will be filmed in Mumbai. So, there are no issues on that front. Sanjay Dutts UK visa was rejected because of his 1993 case. He was detained under TADA and the Arms Act. Later, the actor was also found guilty of violating the Arms Act for possessing illegal firearms acquired from other individuals involved in the 1993 Bombay bombings. Ajay Devgn recently took to his Instagram to announce the Muhurat of the film. Helmed by Vijay Kumar Arora, the film has an extensive shoot schedule in the UK, followed by India. Ajay shared a video with the caption, The journey of #SonOfSardaar2 begins with prayers, blessings, and an amazing team. In the video, Ajay could be seen offering prayers at a gurdwara while Mrunal Thakur was seen performing bhangra on stage. The film will be directed by Vijay Kumar Arora and comes nearly 12 years after the original. The first film featured Ajay Devgn trying to win Sonakshi Sinhas hand in marriage by trying to impress her older brother, played by Sanjay Dutt. However, as per reports, Sonakshi Sinha will not be a part of the sequel. A release date for the film is yet to be decided. Actor Divya Seth Shahs daughter, Mihika Shah, passed away suddenly on Monday, August 5, in Mumbai. According to sources close to the family and reported by India Today, Mihika initially developed a fever, which was followed by a seizure. The family is devastated by the unexpected loss and has scheduled a prayer meeting for August 8. Taking to her Facebook account, Divya Seth Shah shared a note that read, With profound sorrow, we inform you of the passing of our beloved Mihika Shah, who left for her heavenly abode on August 5th, 2024 (sic). According to the note, the prayer meet will be held at Sindh Colony Club House in Mumbai on August 8. Just last week, Divya shared a touching Instagram post featuring three generations of her family. The photo showed her daughter, radiant in a green dress, alongside her mother, who looked elegant in red. The image beautifully reflected the deep love and strong connection between them. Mihika would often share photos with her parents and grandmother, Sushma Seth. In April. she had taken to Instagram to share beautiful photos from her childhood with her mom Divya on her birthday. When I look at you, I see the purest love Ill ever know, Every wounded soul finds their way to you, in your care they heal and grow, Divya, gods gift, my blessing from above, whos love is stronger than the eye can see, in 8.1 billion people on earth mama, your the perfect mother for me. Happy Birthday my Dibi, I love you, she had captioned the post. Divya Seth has worked in films like Jab We Met, Dil Dhadakne Do and Article 370. Veteran actress Sushma Seth has played pivotal parts in films such as Dhadkan, Kal Ho Naa Ho, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham and TV series, Dekh Bhai Dekh. May Mihikas soul rest in eternal peace. Reality TV star Kim Kardashian recently treated her fans to a glimpse of her sun-soaked Greece getaway in June. She shared a series of photos on Instagram, showcasing her trip. In the collection, the 43-year-old posed for multiple selfies, enjoyed boat and jet ski rides and captured various scenic shots, including images of a cat, goats and a stunning sunset. One striking photo featured Kim in a chic, white fitted skirt paired with a plunging neckline halter top. American media personality Lauren Sanchez also made an appearance in one of the images. Kim Kardashian simply captioned the carousel, Greece this summer. See her pics below: Her younger sister Khloe Kardashian reacted to the post, commenting, I love the vibes. According to Page Six, Kim was on vacation with Sanchez and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. During their trip, Sanchez and Bezos were spotted hanging out in the Aegean Sea, each riding their own jet ski. Kardashian, at the time, was photographed taking a selfie while on a jet ski selfie, which ended up on her recent Instagram post. Although it was unclear when Kim joined Jeff Bezos and Sanchez, Page Six reports that the couple had been in Mykonos for several weeks. In July, Kim Kardashian along with her sister Khloe Kardashian made headlines as they arrived in India to attend the wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. For the grand celebration, Kim looked stunning in a striking red lehenga paired with a dupatta with a matching blouse. It featured a plunging neckline and a beaded hem, perfectly highlighting her toned figure. Kim also shared a selfie on her Instagram Stories featuring Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai. In the photo, dressed in a colourful outfit, flashed a smile while Kim struck a pout. She captioned the picture, Queen. After the monumental success of the KGF franchise, Yash is gearing up for his next highly anticipated project, titled Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown Ups. Directed by Geetu Mohandas, the film is set to commence shooting on August 8 in Bengaluru. The choice of this date is notably significant as it aligns with Yashs strong affinity for the number 8. August 8, 2024, translates to 8-8-8, a sequence that holds special meaning for Yash. This number not only corresponds to his birth date but also matches the date when the official announcement for Toxic was made. The number 8 has emerged as a recurring theme in Yashs life. Before starting the shoot, Yash was seen visiting several temples in Karnataka, accompanied by producer Venkat K. Narayana and their families. Their spiritual journey included visits to the Shri Sadashiva Rudra Surya Temple, Shri Manjunatheshwara Temple in Dharmasthala, and the Kukke Subramanya Temple in Subramanya. This ritual aligns with Yashs tradition of seeking blessings and ensuring a positive beginning for his new projects, much to the delight of his fans. Toxic promises to delve into the dark world of the drug mafia in the 1950s, offering a gripping narrative that showcases Yash in a powerful role. The production team has chosen to set up its headquarters in Karnataka, adding to the local excitement. Recently, Yashs new look for the film has gone viral, featuring a short crop hairstyle. This transformation, crafted by stylist Alex Vijaykanth, has already garnered significant attention. Vijaykanth shared the new hairstyle on his official Instagram, describing it as a custom pompadour for the Rocking Star. He elaborated on how he evolved Yashs iconic long hair into a shorter, edgier, and more intense style, enhancing Yashs formidable on-screen persona. Fans eagerly await Toxic, which promises to be another milestone in Yashs successful career. The film is slated to hit theatres on April 10, 2025, and expectations are high for this new chapter in Yashs journey. It takes a village to mould a champion, and well, Vinesh Phogat got in touch with the one which raised her following her emphatic semifinal win against Cubas Yusneylis Guzman Lopez. Phogat completely outclassed and outmuscled the reigning Pan-American champions Guzman enroute to her 5-0 win over the Cuban. With her win, Phogat became the first female Indian wrestler to ever make it to a Olympic final, as she assures India yet another medal in their Paris 2024 campaign. After her win, Phogat was taken to a stall, where her parents and family back in her village, on a video call, as the wrestler couldnt contain her emotions upon claiming the historic win. It takes a village Vinesh PHOGAT talking to her mother after becoming the first Indian to reach Olympic final in womens wrestling#uww #wrestling #wrestleparis #olympics #paris2024 pic.twitter.com/Kh5SDCVR3T United World Wrestling (@wrestling) August 6, 2024 Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who has been in the midst of controversy galore over the past year, got off to a trailblazing start at the Paris Olympics, as she sunk the reigning world champion Japans Yui Susaki in the first round of the Womens 50kg Freestyle event at the Paris Olympics. Vineshs win also marks a historic first loss in international circuits for the top-seeded Japanese Susaki, who did not concede a single point enroute to her hold during the Tokyo Games in 2020 Vinesh Phogats dream run in the Paris Olympics continued after her overhaul of the reigning champion, as the Indian wrestler got the better of Ukraines Oksana Livach in the quarterfinals of the 50kg Womens Freestyle event. Phogat showcased her experience and vigilance as she surgically dismantled Livach 7-5 to seal her spot in the semifinal. The ace wrestler followed it up with an even more clinical performance in the semis, taking down Cubas Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 to seal her spot in the final of the Womens 50kg Freestyle. Catch Paris Olympics 2024 Day 11 LIVE Updates Here. Stay updated with the latest from Olympics 2024. Explore India At Paris Olympics 2024 Today. Check the updated list of Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally. Check Paris Olympics 2024 Event Results. Vinesh Phogat remains one step away from eternal Olympic glory, as the Indian wrestler took down Cubas Yusneylis Guzman Lopez to seal her spot in the final of the Womens 50kg Freestyle at the Paris Olympics on Tuesday. The ace Indian took on the reigning Pan-American champion in a bout that went 5-0. With her win, Phogat seals a medal finish for India, and also becomes the first Indian female wrestler to compete for Gold in an Olympic final. Both wrestlers started off the bout patiently, grappling away at each other, but playing it slow and safe as to not give away any cheap points early. But, around a minute into the bout, Phogat finally found the breakthrough, taking down the Cuban Guzman, but couldnt seal any points. The duo engaged in a grapplefest, as Guzman was hit with a 30-sec shotclock for passivity, through which Vinesh held her ground to secure the first point of the match. Guzman continued to target Phogats legs, but neither the Cuban nor the Indian found any leeway to snatch away points, as both wrestlers went into the halfway break with Phogat leading 1-0. Entering into action in the remainder of the time, Phogat was hit with a passivity shotclock herself. But unlike Guzman, Phogat exploded pinning away the Cuban at will to snatch away 4 more points, building up her lead to 5-0 with less than a minute to go. Guzmans attempts would end futile, handing over a perfect win to Phogat. Phogat, who has been in the midst of controversy galore over the past year, got off to a trailblazing start at the Paris Olympics, as she sunk the reigning world champion Japans Yui Susaki in the first round of the Womens 50kg Freestyle event. Her win also marked a historic first loss in international circuits for the top-seeded Japanese Susaki, who did not concede a single point enroute to her hold during the Tokyo Games in 2020. Phogats dream run in the Paris Olympics continued as she got the better of Ukraines Oksana Livach in the quarterfinals of the 50kg Womens Freestyle event at the Paris Olympics on Tuesday. Phogat showcased her experience and vigilance as she surgically dismantled Livach 7-5 to seal her spot in the semifinal. Catch Paris Olympics 2024 Day 11 LIVE Updates Here. Stay updated with the latest from Olympics 2024. Explore India At Paris Olympics 2024 Today. Check the updated list of Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally. Check Paris Olympics 2024 Event Results. The crisis in Bangladesh has reinvigorated in India a significant worry: will the new regime continue Sheikh Hasinas policy of keeping India in its good books and cooperate with New Delhi on the larger strategic and security front? History tells us that the leaders and party about to take control of Bangladesh have a blemished record, marred by their support for anti-India elements. One such leader might be returning to mainstream politics in Bangladesh. Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced on Monday the release of jailed opposition leader and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, hours after Sheikh Hasina resigned as the countrys prime minister and fled Bangladesh. The decision to set the former Prime Minister free was taken after a meeting between the military and political parties of Bangladesh to form an interim government. Khaleda Zia, who is Sheikh Hasinas biggest rival, was imprisoned in 2018 after she was sentenced to 17 years in prison in a graft case. Her release from prison signifies the hold she continues to have over the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, of which she remains the chairman. It is believed that despite her ill health, Khaleda Zia will play a pivotal role in the interim government set to be formed. Although the BNP claims its leader was made the victim of a political witch hunt, there is no denying that Begum Khaleda Zia has been a troublesome leader when it comes to handling Indian interests in Bangladesh. It is well known that she, along with her son Tarique Rehman Zia ran a corrupt government in the early 2000s. Tarique and his younger brother even ran an extortion racket and a parallel government during Khaleda Zias prime ministership. For India, the return of Khaleda Zia to mainstream Bangladeshi politics is not a positive sign of times to come. It was during Zias rule, first from 1991 to 1996, and then from 2002 to 2006 that insurgencies in Northeast India surged. In fact, Zias Home Minister is in jail for arranging arms and ammunition from Pakistan for ULFA arguably the strongest insurgent group of the Northeast back in the day. It is an open secret that during her rule, Bangladesh worked in close coordination with Pakistan to subvert Indian interests and create a terror-conducive environment for jihadis. Shockingly, in 1997, Khaleda Zia openly announced the BNPs support for insurgent groups in Northeast India, claiming that they were fighting a war of independence. She said: They (the northeastern insurgents) are fighting for independence. We also fought for it, so we are always in favour of any independence movement. Zia added that the use of Bangladeshs army will not be allowed against Northeastern insurgent groups. Interestingly, when Sheikh Hasina took over, she became a key partner in Indias fight against militancy, and provided great assistance in cracking down on insurgents operating against India from Bangladeshi soil. In many ways, Khaleda Zias rule facilitated the mushrooming of an anti-India narrative in Bangladesh, so much so that ordinary Bangladeshis began growing hostile to New Delhi over what they thought was interference in their internal politics. This crevice has only grown larger in the years gone by. Today, the BNP and Jamaat inherit a Bangladesh where India is viewed as an overpowering entity. Especially popular is the narrative that Muslims are now unsafe in India. Historically, the BNP has used an anti-India plank to reap electoral dividends. It is not a surprise that the BNPs latest attempt has been at spearheading the India Out campaign in Bangladesh, as part of which influencers have been urging people to boycott India economically. For India, the events that have unfolded in Bangladesh represent a strategic setback a significant one at that. CNN-News18 has reported how Pakistans ISI was neck-deep in ensuring Sheikh Hasinas ouster from power. Sources have said ISI sleeper cells were working full time in Dhaka to dislodge Hasina. It is understood that Pakistan, which is tacitly supported by China, wants an anti-India regime in charge of Bangladesh so that it can activate a new front against New Delhi in the East. Read More: ISI Conspiracy to Remove Sheikh Hasina as Pakistan Wants Anti-India Govt in Bangladesh: Top Intel Sources The rise of BNP and the ultra-radical Jamaat-e-Islami poses significant challenges for India. For starters, both these parties aided by Pakistan and other foreign powers could make an anti-India stance their main plank here on. It needs to be remembered that the BNP has failed to win elections in Bangladesh for many years. As such, it will need a pan-national agenda to unite its supporters and capitalise on the political vacuum that has emerged in the country. There are also apprehensions that Northeast India could face the brunt of an anti-India regime taking control of Bangladesh. Pakistan and China have a lot of interest in reviving the dormant insurgencies of Northeast India. Previously, during BNP rule, several insurgents were provided safe harbour and weapons in Bangladesh. The Sheikh Hasina administration was instrumental in curbing insurgent activities and fostering a cooperative relationship between Dhaka and New Delhi. The rise of the BNP, coupled with the influence of ISI-backed Jamaat-e-Islami, threatens to reverse these gains and destabilise the region. The potential for increased insurgent activity and the involvement of external actors like Pakistan and China necessitates a strategic response from New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. Continuing with his meetings with Members of Parliament from different states, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met MPs from Assam. Along with the Bharatiya Janata Party, MPs from ally parties two from the United Peoples Party Liberal (UPPL) and two from Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) were also part of the meeting. Modi is the only prime minister to have visited the north-eastern state more than five dozen times. While talking about his association with the region and his special love for Assam, Modi spoke about the contribution of Bharat Ratna the late Bhupen Hazarika. I have great respect and appreciation for Bhupen Hazarika ji. Even more because he is our damaad (son-in-law), said the PM, leaving everybody with a smile, as Hazarikas wife is from Gujarat. The prime minister also advised the MPs to be active on social media and to focus on taking the message of the budget to the people of Assam. He also asked the MP to be connected on ground and interact with the people and get a real understanding of their condition. At the meeting, the MPs thanked Modi for his focus on the development of the Northeast. The recent awarding of the Rs 27,000-crore semiconductor project to the state is a major push for development, they said. They also thanked the PM for the assistance during the recent flooding. Assam, which is considered to be the gateway of the NorthEast, has seen a huge support from the BJP over the past decade. This saffron party is the only party in the region, apart from the Congress, to be able to form a government twice in a row. Sarbananda Sonowal from the state is the cabinet minister in the Modi government. Pabitra Margarita, Minister of State, is also from the state. In the 2024 Lok Sabha election, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) bettered its performance with 11 of the 14 seats in Assam in comparison to nine in 2019. Of the 11 seats, nine are from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and one from UPPL and AGP each. Earlier, the prime minister has already met MPs from Delhi, Haryana, Maharashtra, Odisha, among others. In the last special session of Parliament, Modi had met MPs from alliance partners such as TDP, JDU and LJP Ram Vilas faction. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- As of August 5, 2024, NIO has surpassed 50 million battery swaps, according to the companys announcement. This achievement comes just 144 days after reaching 40 million swaps in March this year. Photo credit: NIO Since the beginning of August this year, NIO has been averaging around 79,000 battery swaps per day, meaning a NIO vehicle leaves a swap station fully charged every 1.1 seconds. The company said it has observed a growing number of users preferring battery swapping as their primary method of recharging. Nearly 60% of the energy replenished by NIO users now comes from the battery swap service. Compared to public charging, battery swapping has collectively saved users over 28.5 billion minutes. As of August 6, NIO has established a comprehensive network of 2,465 battery swap stations (826 stations are alone expressways), 3,930 electric vehicle charging stations, and 22,940 charging piles nationwide. Meanwhile, it has had access to over 1,029,000 third-party charging piles. Looking ahead, NIO has ambitious plans for 2024. The company aims to add 1,000 new battery swap stations in China, bringing the total to over 3,310 stations. Additionally, NIO plans to install 20,000 new charging piles, increasing the total to over 41,000 by the end of the year. NIO's battery swap service has also attracted a host of partners. The company has forged strategic alliances with seven automakers, including Changan Automobile, Geely Holding Group, Chery Automobile, JAC Group, Lotus, GAC Group, and FAW Group. Furthermore, NIO has entered into energy and power cooperation agreements with several major companies, such as State Grid, China Southern Power Grid, and WENERGY Group. National Conference President and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday commented on the political upheaval in Bangladesh, calling it as a lesson not just for Bangladesh but for every dictator. There is extreme interest there. Their economy is bad, their internal situation is also not good. The students started a movement which no one could control, neither their Army, nor anyone else, so this is a lesson. Not only for Bangladesh but for every dictator, Abdullah remarked. #WATCH | On the situation in Bangladesh, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah says, There is extreme interest there. Their economy is bad, their internal situation is also not good. The students started a movement which no one could control, neither their Army, nor anyone pic.twitter.com/4FlzpyRpNg ANI (@ANI) August 6, 2024 He further added, There comes a time when the patience of the people is over and that is what happened. Hasina steps down amid political crisis Abdullahs remarks come a day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh after 15 years in power. She fled the country on Monday amid escalating political tensions ignited by student protests against a controversial job quota system. The student-led protests, which began last month, were initially driven by discontent over a job quota scheme that reserved 30 per cent of civil service positions for families of veterans from the 1971 liberation war. The protests quickly evolved into a broader anti-government movement demanding Hasinas resignation. Commenting on Hasina fleeing the country, Abdullah said, There (in Bangladesh) was a feeling that a voice should be raised against the oppression being done on Muslims in the worldIf she (Sheikh Hasina) did not run from there, she would have been killed too. Hasina requests safe passage to India After her departure, Hasina, 76, reportedly flew to India in a military aircraft and landed at an airfield near New Delhi. Earlier today, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed Parliament that Hasina requested safe passage to India following her abrupt resignation. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi, Jaishankar stated. According to reports, Hasina is still in India. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. At the all-party meeting in the wake of the unfolding crisis in Bangladesh, leaders from the Opposition parties, including Rahul Gandhi, said they were completely supportive of Indias foreign policy. They also appreciated the concern of the Centre on the developing situation, said government sources. The government had called for the meeting, which was attended by Congresss Gandhi and KC Venugopal, Trinamool Congresss Sudeep Bandyopadhyay, Nationalist Congress Partys (NCP) Supriya Sule and Sasmit Patra from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). On behalf of the government, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar briefed the MPs from various political parties. Apart from Jaishankar, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president JP Nadda, home minister Amit Shah, defence minister Rajnath Singh and parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju were part of the meeting. Sources said all leaders who attended the meeting said they were aware of the precarious situation in the neighbouring nation and not a single one of them wanted to get into details about the whereabouts of Sheikh Hasina who came down to India on Monday evening. The opposition parties raised five issues before the government considering the situation. They asked if the government was in touch with the present establishment in Bangladesh. Jaishankar is said to have told the leaders that they were in touch with the neighbouring nation and also the military powers there. About the welfare of the students, the Centre said that they had already issued multiple advisories and students have returned to India. They have taken steps to ensure many more can return safely. The Indian government also told the leaders that they have informed the Bangladeshi establishment of the videos of attacks on minorities and are hopeful that the situation could be brought under control soon. When some leaders asked about any foreign hand or conspiracy angle, the Indian government said it was too early to comment on anything substantially. There could be a number of political players whose role could be prominent in what happened in Bangladesh. But beyond that it is really difficult to know about the situation at this time, the government is said to have told the leaders. Google has once again made the headlines regarding its search monopoly in the market and how it has been able to pump billions into the segment illegally and push competition way behind. U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta on Monday ruled that Google had violated antitrust law by spending billions of dollars to secure exclusive agreements with developers, carriers and equipment makers to be the default search engine. Judge Mehta has made some staggering claims in a 277-paged statement this week, where he is clear about Googles monopolistic practices and how it has killed competition with shrewd business moves and hiring the best in the market to gain this position. Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly, Judge Mehta has mentioned in the document. Sure, users can access Googles rivals by switching the default search access point or by downloading a rival search app or browser. But the market reality is that users rarely do so. The default is extremely valuable real estate. Because many users simply stick to searching with the default, Google receives billions of queries every day through those access points. Google, of course, recognizes that losing defaults would dramatically impact its bottom line. For instance, Google has projected that losing the Safari default would result in a significant drop in queries and billions of dollars in lost revenues. The distribution agreements have caused a third key anticompetitive effect: They have reduced the incentive to invest and innovate in search. There is no genuine competition for the contract. Google has no true competitor. Google has not achieved market dominance by happenstance. It has hired thousands of highly skilled engineers, innovated consistently, and made shrewd business decisions. The result is the industrys highest quality search engine, which has earned Google the trust of hundreds of millions of daily users. (With Reuters inputs) Apple iPhone 16 launch is just a few weeks away now but we are already looking far into the future, a future where the company enters the foldable battle. Apple is tipped to launch the Flip iPhone model sometime in 2026 which means you could see the iPhone 18 launch event have a big foldable surprise that year. But latest updates claim the company could have two foldables in its lineup by 2026, which includes a iPad-Mac hybrid. This new device is claimed to feature a gigantic 18.8-inch screen in the unfolded state that makes it bigger than most laptops that you get in the market. The details about the new foldable Apple product comes via Jeff Pu who is an analyst with Haitong International Securities Group. Pu also claims that the iPad-Mac hybrid will be the first Apple foldable to be unveiled, sometime in Q2 2026, and the clamshell-style iPhone will roll out after that. Samsung has been around in this space with the Galaxy Z Flip version and the six-gen model came out recently. But it seems Apple wants to take its time rather than push a product in a hurry. It is being mentioned that the development of the flip iPhone has started this year, which means the two-year cycle suggests the launch timeline of 2026 could be on the mark. Having said that, we are surprised to hear that Apple wants to start its entry into foldables with a flip version rather than a full-fledged fold. Apple has reportedly signed up with Samsung Display division for the foldable panels that will be offered on its foldable iPhone in the next few years. We are excited to see how iOS and other Apple platforms evolve and adapt to the foldable form factor. The Windows AI laptop era has started on a costlier note in 2024 but companies are already planning to shift these AI-powered devices to a lower price range by early 2025. The Qualcomm chief has confirmed these developments recently, giving us hopes that we could soon have AI laptops running on Windows and its Snapdragon X processor costing below Rs 1 lakh or even Rs 80,000 in the market. It would be funny to say that such laptops will be categorised in the budget segment but going by the current prices of these Windows AI laptops, any price revision in five digits will surely excite consumers. Most Windows AI laptops you see in the market cost $999 (Rs 83,000 approx) but people in countries like India have to spend another grand or two extra to own these high-powered machines. Qualcomm says it will soon expand the Snapdragon X series with different processors that will bring the laptop prices down to $700 (Rs 57,000 approx) by early next year. If we go by the current value of these systems, buyers in India could soon expect the new processor will offer Windows laptops for around Rs 80,000. Affordable AI Laptops, Yes Please! The chip giant has only given the price references during the recent earnings call but we are eager to see how the new Snapdragon X processor pans out as a final product and what it offers for the cut down costs as the hardware will surely see some toning down. Having said that, Cristiano Amon from Qualcomm has mentioned the NPU performance of these lower-priced AI Snapdragon X processors will not be compromised which will surely get people excited for the next batch of AI laptops in the market. We have already got a fair idea of how these Snapdragon X powered Windows laptops perform, and their battery life bump is a big plus for these machines. However, developers really need to amp up the apps support for the ARM-based Windows laptops to appeal to more buyers across different price brackets. Passengers on a Thai Airways flight faced a distressing ordeal when their flight from London to Bangkok turned into a nightmare due to a malfunction in the air conditioning system. According to a report in the New York Post, the Boeing 777 was stuck on the tarmac for two hours in unbearable heat before the flight was cancelled altogether. The incident occurred on Thai Airways flight TG 917 on July 25, which was scheduled to depart from London to Bangkok at 9:25 PM. The malfunction turned the aircraft into a sweltering, uncomfortable environment, leaving passengers trapped in a virtual steam room while the crew worked to resolve the issue. People were stuck on the plane and couldnt leave. We were hot and couldnt breathe. At least in a sauna, you can leave when you want. This was like a form of torture, Warawalan Maksaen, a student at the University of Exeter who was trapped onboard told the New York Post. Another passenger reported that the heat was so extreme that travellers began sweating profusely, and one person even had a panic attack. According to Maksaen, passengers were not provided with food or water throughout the ordeal. After two hours, a flight attendant eventually offered water and opened the door to let in some fresh air. Due to the airports curfew, no technicians were available to fix the issue, forcing passengers to disembark the sweltering aircraft at 11 PM. Although the flight was rescheduled for the following day, passengers were left with two challenging options: either spend the night at the airport or take a bus to find a hotel, as per Maksaen. Myself and a lot of the other passengers went to the bus station to wait for transportation to a hotel. There was no help from the airline, and the last group of passengers waited aimlessly until the last three buses arrived at 2 AM, the 26-year-old added. To make matters worse, the hotel arranged by the airline had only eight rooms available. Families were given priority leaving solo travellers like Maksaen to find their own accommodation. Being familiar with the area helped Maksaen secure a room at a hotel, though it was 3 AM by the time she arrived. The flight, initially set to depart at 3:45 PM the next day, faced another setback when the engine failed to start. Passengers had to leave the plane once more and were finally allowed to board at 6:49 p.m. I was so disappointed by Thai Airways. Their service was appalling, and I sent a complaint email after the incident. I have received a compensation offer, either as cash or a discount voucher for my next flight, which I chose as cash because I do not want to fly with this airline again, Maksaen said. The world has become witness to the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh, which eventually forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee the country. While the developments surfaced in the last few weeks after thousands took to the streets to protest against quotas for government jobs, it seems like an astrologer had predicted it months before. In a post shared on December 14, 2023, the astrologer named Prashanth Kini asked Sheikh Hasina to remain careful in the months of May, June, July and August 2024, claiming that she may face assassination attempts. Fast forward to now, Kini re-shared his tweet on X and wrote, I have Already predicted Sheikh Haseena will be in trouble in August 2024, Is she fleeing her country!!!! I have Already predicted Sheikh Haseena will be in trouble in August 2024 ,Is she flee her country !!!! https://t.co/WePWMaOOkP Prashanth Kini (@AstroPrashanth9) August 5, 2024 Social media users instantly took to the comment section and reacted to his almost accurate prediction. A user asked about the future of Bangladesh to which the astrologer said, Full anti-INDIA. I know but what about future of Bangladesh God's Parody (@jahyist) August 5, 2024 Another user commented, Bangladesh is undoing itself to East Pakistan. Bangladesh is undoing itself to East Pakistan Shubham Lashkan (@ShubhamLashkan) August 5, 2024 One exclaimed, What a prediction it was. What a prediction it was ANKIT PATEL | AI (@Ankit_patel211) August 5, 2024 Well predicted sir, a comment read. Well predicted sir Prasad (@Prasad08765084) August 5, 2024 On the other hand, a section of users asked him to make predictions about other situations, including the devastating floods in the South along with questions about their personal lives. What Happened In Bangladesh? After weeks of violent protests across the country, things got even more aggressive on Sunday, when many were killed during the clashes between security officials and the demonstrators, who called for the PM to step down. While police fired rubber bullets and tear gas at protestors, the crowd reiterated by attacking a police station. Despite the curfew-like situation and police and military actions, the protesters continued marching on Monday. People even stormed her official residence, forcing the PM to resign and leave the country. According to reports, she has landed in India to take shelter. Presently, the Bangladeshi military has taken over, while the army chief has proposed an interim government. Our world is in dire need of environmental protection. Our world is rapidly changing, accelerating in incredible technological advancements simultaneously and the environment we call home is on its way to deterioration. In Rajasthan, the locals of the Bhilwara city protect the trees and the environment, in their own unique and traditional way. Local18 reports state that in Bhilwara, the locals engage in tree worship, which is a part of their tradition. The villages of the region worship the trees and plants and decorate them with a turban. It gives out a message of tree protection, as per the information given. The tradition has been practised by several villages in the region, that too for generations. These villages include Mahua, Manpura Amritia, Barundni, Biletha, Gogakheda, Asind Karera Raipur, and Sahada, where the trees are worshipped and kept clean. Through the practice, thousands of acres of pasture land are being secured and protected in the region. It is greatly helping the environment become rich with trees, plants and grass. According to the information provided, the villages started the practice by gathering a temple or a shrine. They worship the lord with great enthusiasm and pomp. After that, they take the turban from the shrine, and one end is transported to the temple while the other is taken to the place of worship. The entire village becomes a part of the worship and participates in it by touching the turban as a form of offering respect. When the worship is completed, the plants and the trees are decorated with turbans and the locals pray for their prosperity and opulence. According to the village citizens, the event is attended by thousands of women as well as children along with several other people belonging to different communities. After weeks of political unrest across the country, thousands of protesters in Bangladesh stormed Ganabhaban, the official residence of Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka on Monday and vandalized the premises. Although Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister and left Bangladesh, the demonstrators caused extensive damage. Shocking visuals have surfaced on the internet, showing people inside the building stealing nearly everything, including rugs, utensils, pet animals, clothes, her personal belongings and even saree blouses. Several videos and pictures depict men carrying saree blouses in their hands and flaunting them in front of cameras. Others went further, even draping the PMs sarees while stacking other items in buckets and bags. Look at these Islamic zombies mob waving #Bangladesh Prime Minister #SheikhHasina's undergarments as a symbol of victory! They look more like rapists than revolutionaries ! Hindus of Bangladesh are being attacked by Islamic monsters! #Dhaka #HindusUnderAttack pic.twitter.com/OUreSipsVT Rocky Bhai (@Iambakshi) August 5, 2024 Here is the full video.Brothers of LKFC from Bangladesh are waiving undergarments of Sheikh Hasina like the Bangladeshi flag. Never saw any students in the world who have done something pathetic like this.#AllEyesOnBangladeshiHindus https://t.co/Vjv7vQZQjp pic.twitter.com/dcD8QhG7fj Sunanda Roy (@SaffronSunanda) August 6, 2024 Social media users are expressing anguish over such actions by civilians. Reacting to the visuals, a user wrote, Never saw any students in the world who have done something pathetic like this. Another commented, They are not students They are goons hired by global leftists gang. They are not students They are goons hired by global leftists gang Karthik (@dkarthiks) August 6, 2024 Golden era of Bangladesh is over Soon Bangladesh will become just like Pakistan Pakistani are celebrating, just like they celebrated when Talibans took over Afghanistan, a comment read. Golden era of Bangladesh is over Soon Bangladesh will become just like Pakistan Pakistani are celebrating, just like they celebrated when Talibani took over Afghanistan Dinesh Shetty (@dineshshetty40) August 6, 2024 A user criticised the looting of the PMs personal belongings and wrote, Where is humanity? This is totally disgusting Murder of democracy Radicals looted bra, fish, saree, blouse, and dustbins from Sheikh Hasinas residence. One ri0ter even wore a saree. They have looted utensils from her kitchen. Other videos circulating online show protesters eating food from the kitchens, lying on Sheikh Hasinas bed and stealing items such as televisions, chairs, tables, fish, ducks and luxurious goods. One of the scenes captured on the streets depicts people celebrating the governments fall. Throughout the day, crowds continued to flood in and out of Ganabhaban, creating complete chaos. Meanwhile, after fleeing the country, Sheikh Hasina arrived at Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad on Monday evening. She, along with her sister, departed Dhaka in a military helicopter. Following her departure, the Bangladesh military assumed full control of the country. The rainy season provides a much-needed reprieve from the heat and benefits the ecosystem, but it also attracts a slew of frightening critters to our houses. From insects to reptiles, the increased humidity and standing water provide excellent circumstances for a variety of creatures to thrive. One such case from Indonesia has gone viral, in which a big monitor lizard was spotted hiding on the kitchen roof. It was later rescued by officials. When cooking food, a knocking sound could be heard from the roof of the kitchen in the house. The family members couldnt figure out where this sound was coming from. It was also hard to sleep at night fearing the noise. One day the large monitor lizard emerged by ripping the false seal of the kitchen. The family members were shocked to see the tail. They immediately contacted the rescue team. A video of the rescue has currently gone viral on Instagram where officials are struggling to catch the monitor lizard. The video opens with two officials standing under a broken kitchen roof. One of them is pulling the monitor lizards tail with all his force. The large lizard gives a hard time to both the rescue officials in rescuing it. Somehow, the monitor lizard falls to the floor and both the officials rush to catch it. Towards the end of the clip, the officials are seen successfully rescuing the animal safely. Watch the video here: Shared on July 21, the video has collected over 9.8 million views. Several social media users lauded the rescue officials for their effort and bravery. A user wrote, Kya himmat he bhai officer ki do bara se pakad liya wao (What courage these officers have. They somehow made it happen). Many users were concerned as to how did the animal climb up there. Others gave their opinion stating that the kitchen roof might have rats or birds nest that made the large monitor lizard climb. What is your take on this viral video? In May, a huge monitor lizard managed to get into a second-floor flat in Uttar Pradeshs capital. , . pic.twitter.com/kGfHXPKtyz Priya singh (@priyarajputlive) May 27, 2024 The actual date of the occurrence is unknown, but it piqued the interest of many viewers. Disney+ is the new streaming service from Disney, launching in November Disney 031 Another round of price hikes is coming to Disneys full suite of streaming services. On Tuesday, The Hollywood Reporter noted that Disney+ would be getting a $2/month increase on both its ad-supported (now $9.99 per month) and ad-free (now $15.99) tiers. Hulus ad-supported tier would also be hiked by $2/month (now $9.99 per month), though the ad-free tier would only increase by $1/month (now $18.99). ESPN+ is also getting a $1 monthly price hike (now $11.99/month), as is the ad-supported tier of the Disney bundle (now $10.99/month). Hulu with Live TV gets the largest increase at $6/month, putting it at either $82.99/month (including ad-supported Disney+ and Hulu) or $95.99/month (including ad-free Disney+ and Hulu). The price increases will be effective as of October 17. Additionally, Disney+ will add playlists to the service, which seem more like the live channels you see on other streaming services like Paramount+ and Peacock. Among the channels will be ABC News Live and a general preschool content playlist, with future playlists based on seasonal content and properties like Marvel and Star Wars. Playlists are the latest example of how were providing the best value and experience for our subscribers every time they open Disney+, said Alisa Bowen, president of Disney+, in a statement. Whether its news, kids content, popular genres, hit TV shows or blockbuster films, there will be something for everyone in a lean-back viewing experience based on seasonality and interest. The playlists arent a bad idea, but the naming is probably going to confuse people who will think they can add and customize content and create their own playlists. [The Hollywood Reporter] Who doesnt want a proposal in front of the Eiffel Tower? We all do. Dont you? Dont know about you but Olympian Justin Best, who works as a junior investment banker, made it happen after winning the gold medal as part of the mens US rowing team at the ongoing 2024 Paris Olympics. Best went down on one knee to propose to his long-time girlfriend Lainey Duncan. In a video shared on Instagram, Best goes down on one knee and asks Duncan to be his forever partner against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower. The American athlete had a unique plan for the proposal. He brought more than 2,700 yellow roses for his lady love. Duncan, dressed in a white gown, looked stunned. In the clip, Justin Best can be heard saying, Lainey Olivia Duncan, you are the love of my life. I knew you were special. It was the first date. I said to you, I wanted to go to the Olympics, and you, without question, said Yeah, go for it. You are stunningly beautiful. ferociously intelligent. Your kindness is bent leaps and bounds I dont know anyone who doesnt love you, the 26-year-old added. Many people were present there to cheer for the couple. Justin Best took out a ring and told Lainey Duncan, This is going to be the easiest question of my life. I want to spend the rest of my life with you and raise a family together. Lainey, Will you marry me? She shared a tight hug with Best before saying yes. The roses that Justin Best used in the romantic proposal had a special significance in their relationship. Each yellow rose represents a day that you and I have been together. Obviously, we communicated through Snapchat. Our streak is 2,738 right now. So there are 2,738 yellow roses from Snapchat. Our love is truly now immortalised, he explained. The dreamy proposal video spread like wildfire on social media. The official account of US Rowing commented, Im not crying, youre crying. One user said, Netflix should make a film on the love story of Justin Best and Lainey Duncan. This is so romantic, added the person. As often heard pet owners go above and beyond for their furry friends, a young boy from the United States has raised the bar significantly. Bryson Kliemann, a die-hard Pokemon lover, sold his Pokemon card collection to earn money for his ailing dog. His gesture of selflessness drew widespread praise and donations from around the world. This heartwarming incident happened in 2021 when the boy was 8 years old and is grabbing headlines again for all the right reasons. Virginia resident Bryson is reportedly an avid fan of the iconic cartoon series and has spent years collecting Pokemon cards. However, when he realised that his pet dog, Bruce, required expensive surgery, the little boy did not hesitate to sell his collection to raise the necessary funds of $700 (about Rs 58,000). In an interview with USA Today, Brysons mother, Kimberly Woodruff, stated that Bruce grew lethargic and refused to leave his cage, which concerned the family and prompted them to rush him to Southwest Virginia Veterinary Services. Bruce was diagnosed with parvovirus, a highly dangerous dog illness, and the treatment cost was about $700. The family couldnt afford to pay this amount, and Bryson claimed he couldnt risk losing his pet. Bryson supposedly returned home from school the next day with a plan: he took a stack of papers from his bag that contained plans of a stand he envisioned. The drawings, which he drew on the back of his school papers, depicted the intended arrangement of his Pokemon cards on this stand. He had decided to sell his collection to save his pet. Bryson was however initially discouraged by his mother. Kimberly was in phlebotomy class when her husband sent a picture of her son sitting at a table in the front yard with a wooden sign that stated Pokemon 4 SALE. It was heartwarming, but it hurt to see, she said quoted by USA Today. Neighbours slowly gathered around the Pokeemon card stand, believing the child was selling his cards for extra pocket money. But when they discovered what it was for, word started to spread. After which Kimberly posted a photo of Bryson at the stand on a neighbourhood Facebook page, hoping that more neighbours might come by. She stated that she did not expect the overwhelming outpouring of support. Some of her Michigan friends encouraged her to put up a GoFundMe for her son because they lived too far away to support the stand in person. So, she created a page titled Just a Boy Trying to Save His Dog. As the news spread and internet donations poured in, many gathered at the young boys stand. Reports suggest that by selling each card for $5 to $10 (around Rs 400 to 800), the boy collected $400 (Rs 33,000) in a few days. Some neighbours brought their own Pokemon card collections and gave Bryson their cards to restock his collection. While others donated money and dog supplies. Moreover, Brysons grandfather, David Cole Jr., said the family has received messages of support from people in Australia, China and Ireland. The GoFundMe campaign had raised almost $19,500 (Rs 16 lakh) within a week. Kimberly decided to contact local shelters and animal hospitals and utilise the additional money to aid them with whatever they needed or to assist families who were struggling to pay for their dogs health care. The mother-son duo have helped four families pay for their dogs medical care, reports claim. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pubity (@pubity) As this story went viral again, social media users showered love and appreciation for the young boys effort. A user wrote, Love these stories that restore our faith in humanity. Another commented, I love this kid and love his parents. This young boy is a freaking hero, what an angel, a user said. Kids going places, another remarked. Around 500 inmates escaped from Sherpur District Jail in Bangladesh after miscreants stormed the facility on Monday, as the anti-government protests in the capital Dhaka concluded with the ouster of long-time leader Sheikh Hasina. The attackers, armed with sticks and local weapons, breached the jail gate and set fire to the building between 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., United News of Bangladesh (UNB) reported. During the chaos, they also torched the Sadar Police Station and vandalised various district offices, including the district election office and Sonali Bank. READ MORE: Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Hasinas Son Calls For Forces To Stop Unelected Govt; Police Stations Set Ablaze In Chittagong The Bangladeshi outlet said that authorities have suspended 77 officials, including the jail superintendent and prison guards. The attack occurred amid curfew, and the Deputy Commissioner of Sherpur, Abdullah Al Khairun, reported that multiple establishments in the district were set ablaze and damaged. On Tuesday, Bangladesh descended into chaos as Hasina fled the country in a military aircraft while the army stepped in to fill the power vacuum after days of anti-government protests that have killed more than 300 people. After protestors took to the streets in Dhaka, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman announced that the 76-year-old prime minister had resigned. The coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have announced that Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus will be the chief adviser to the interim government in Bangladesh. In a video posted on social media early Tuesday morning, Nahid Islam, one of the key coordinators of the movement, said that Prof Yunus has agreed to take on this crucial responsibility at the call of the student community to save the country, the Daily Star newspaper reported. This development came after President Mohammed Shahabuddin said an interim government would be formed after dissolving the parliament as soon as possible. In a televised address to the nation late Monday night, the president also ordered the release of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, who is under house arrest after being convicted in several cases. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Bangladeshs army chief will meet student protest leaders on Tuesday as the country awaits the formation of a new government a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled following a violent uprising against her. At least 109 people were killed during the violent unrest on Monday, the deadliest day since protests began in early July, bringing the total number of deaths since mid-Jult to 409. Here are the latest updates on the Bangladesh crisis: Parliament Dissolved, Khaleda Released Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday dissolved the 12th Parliament, which was formed through the January 7 national election. In a press release, Bangabhaban stated, The decision to dissolve Parliament was made following the presidents discussions with the chiefs of the three armed forces, leaders of various political parties, representatives of civil society, and leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement. This development coincided with the release of Sheikh Hasinas rival, Khaleda Zia, who had been imprisoned since 2018 on corruption charges. Calm After Chaos The situation in Dhaka was largely calm on Tuesday morning after a day of unrest and a night of tension. Buses and other public transport were on the streets and traders were opening shops. Government vehicles were heading to offices. This comes a day after hundreds of people broke into her residence, vandalising and looting the interiors, providing dramatic expression to the anti-government protests. Hasinas residence Sudha Sadan and other establishments were attacked, vandalised and set on fire in the capital. Interim Govt, Chief Nobel adviser On Tuesday, the coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement announced that Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus will be the chief adviser to the interim government. In a video posted on social media, Nahid Islam, one of the key coordinators of the movement, said that Prof Yunus has agreed to take on this crucial responsibility at the call of the student community to save the country, the Daily Star newspaper reported. We took 24 hours to announce a framework for the interim government. However, considering the emergency situation, we are announcing it now, Nahid said. We have decided that the interim government would be formed in which internationally renowned Nobel Laureate Dr Mohammad Yunus, who has wide acceptability, would be the chief adviser, said Nahid, flanked by two other coordinators. His announcement comes hours after President Mohammed Shahabuddin said an interim government would be formed after dissolving the parliament as soon as possible. Toll Rises, Attacks On Temples According to local media reports, 119 people have been killed in the violence and attacks on Hindu temples and widespread looting in the capital and various other places. Hundreds of people were killed in clashes in different parts of the country, including Dhaka, at the last moment of the one-point demand of the anti-discrimination student movement on Monday. Earlier, the Bengali language daily Prothom Alo reported the death of 98 people till 12 pm on Sunday. Another 16 deaths were reported in the middle of the night. The total death toll stood at 114 on Sunday. With this, the total death toll stood at 440 in 21 days from July 16 to yesterday, the paper said. It said that 37 bodies were brought to the Dhaka Medical College Hospital between 11 am and 8 pm on Monday. Citing hospital sources, it said 500 people were brought to the hospital with various injuries, including bullet injuries. All-Party meeting, Hasinas India presence External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar briefed an all-party meeting about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh on Tuesday. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended, he said in a post on social media platform X. Responding to Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi while addressing an all-party meeting, Jaishankar said it was too early to say anything about foreign conspiracy. Jaishahkar, however, said, It is too early to rule in or rule out anything, but a Pakistani diplomat did change his social media profile picture to support the agitation in Bangladesh. Jaishankar said Sheikh Hasinas presence in India is a courtesy move while the central government is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh. About her arrival in India, Jaishankar told the all-party meeting that for now it is being ensured that Hasina settles down, recovers and feels comfortable enough to discuss her plans. We want to give her space and time, she has come at short notice, he said at the meeting. In Indian Parliament Jaishankar told Parliament on Tuesday that ousted Hasina reached out to India for safe passage following her abrupt resignation in the wake of the political crisis in the country. Delivering a suo motu statement in the Rajya Sabha on the situation in Bangladesh, Jaishankar said that Hasina on Monday requested and received approval to travel to India at very short notice. On 5th August, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign, Jaishankar said in the Parliament. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi, he added. Air India Air India announced on social media that it will operate its evening flights AI237/238 on the Delhi-Dhaka-Delhi route on August 6, 2024. Due to ongoing unrest in Dhaka, the airline is providing a one-time waiver for rescheduling to customers with confirmed bookings on any Air India flight to or from Dhaka between August 4 and August 7. UPDATEAir India will operate its evening flights AI237/238 on the Delhi-Dhaka-Delhi sector on 6 August 2024. In addition, due to the prevailing situation in Dhaka, Air India is offering a one-time waiver on rescheduling to customers, with confirmed bookings on any Air India Air India (@airindia) August 6, 2024 US, UK Reacts The US, UK, and other global actors have for calm in Bangladesh. The United States called on all sides in Bangladesh to refrain from further violence as bullet-ridden bodies were strewn across hospital floors and looting swept the capital Dhaka. Too many lives have been lost over the course of the past several weeks, and we urge calm and restraint in the days ahead, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has called for a full and independent UN-led investigation into the Bangladesh crisis following unprecedented violence and the loss of hundreds of lives over the past two weeks. Lammy urged all parties to collaborate to end the violence, restore calm, and prevent further casualties. Notably, Lammy did not mention Hasina, who fled to India and is reportedly seeking asylum in the United Kingdom. Presidents Appeal Late Monday night, President Shahabuddin asked all the political parties to normalise the law and order situation in the country and directed the armed forces to take stern measures to protect the lives and properties of the people and state assets. The educational institutions in the country were reopened on Tuesday following a long period of closure due to violence surrounding the student movement. The institution is open, and some girls have come, but attendance is low. Attendance will increase in a couple of days, Md Rahamot Ullah, principal of Kisholoy Girls School and College in the Mohammadpur area of the capital, was quoted as saying by the paper. Trouble had been steadily escalating since the governments announcement of the quota system in June this year. Return of BNP Leader Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has announced that Tarique Rahman, the partys acting chairman, will be returning to the country very soon. You all know that our leader, Tarique Rahman, has been unjustly exiled abroad due to false cases. He has fully supported this movement, and we have taken steps to bring him back to the country immediately. InshaAllah, we will be successful, the BNP leader was quoted as saying by The Dhaka Tribune. It has been decided that our leader Begum Khaleda Zia will be released immediately. Those who were imprisoned for political reasons will also be released. Now, in the current situation, all political parties, students, and the public will work together to control it. He said: We have achieved a great victory, a great success. To maintain this success, lets show restraint, not act out of anger or hatred, not attack anyone, and not damage any institutions. Especially, lets not attack our religious minority brothers. (With agency inputs) Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Indian government officials reportedly warned former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina about the potential risks linked with appointing General Waker-Uz-Zaman as Army Chief in June last year. Despite these cautions, Hasina went ahead with the appointment, a decision that many believe played a key role in her recent ousting. Instead of addressing the escalating youth protests, Gen Zaman issued an ultimatum to Sheikh Hasina, demanding that she and her sister flee the country. The Armys swift decision to release opposition BNP leader Khaleda Zia serves as an indication that Islamist groups such as Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Chhatrashibir are likely to become prominent players in the countrys politics, according to The Hindustan Times. READ MORE: Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Jaishankar Says Situation Not That Bad To Need Evacuation, Rahul Gandhi Raises Foreign Conspiracy Concerns On Tuesday, Sheikh Hasina resigned from her position after weeks of violent demonstrations that left over 300 dead. The protests, initially sparked by opposition to a government job quota system, evolved into widespread calls for her resignation. As protesters stormed her official residence in Dhaka, Hasina was evacuated by military helicopter to India, where she arrived at Hindon Air Base before potentially heading to London. General Waker-Uz-Zaman, who took command of the army just weeks before the protests intensified, announced in a televised address that he was assuming responsibility for the countrys governance and would oversee the formation of an interim government. He emphasised the militarys commitment to restoring order and called for calm among the populace. URGENTE CRISIS EN BANGLADESHEl jefe del ejercito de Bangladesh, general Waker-Uz-Zaman, se dirigio a la nacion y confirmo que la primera ministra Sheikh Hasina ha dimitido y que un gobierno interino gobernara el pais.pic.twitter.com/NxvRHSvDEn Alerta News 24 (@AlertaNews24) August 5, 2024 The violent unrest in Indias neighbourhood has raised significant concerns in New Delhi. The Indian government has placed its border with Bangladesh on high alert and is monitoring the situation closely. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Hasina upon her arrival in India to discuss the implications of her departure and the evolving crisis. Regional analysts suggest that Hasinas resignation marks a critical turning point for Bangladesh, leaving a power vacuum that could lead to further instability. The militarys involvement in politics, combined with the rise of radical groups, poses a significant challenge for the interim government. The situation remains fluid, with uncertainty about the future political landscape in Bangladesh. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. From the blood, anger, and chaos of the quota movement which toppled Sheikh Hasina, a hard question is slowly emerging in Bangladesh: Who or what next? On Monday, the writer spoke to Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, believed to be one of the frontrunners for the Bangladesh Prime Ministers post, most likely of a caretaker government. The interview provides a glimpse into the mind of the man who may head Bangladesh in these tumultuous times. Professor Yunus said the question of whether he will agree to take up the lead role is a hypothetical one", even as he seemed open to the right kind of offer, with the right conditions. Depends on what they are talking about. I dont know the details." Speaking from Paris, Yunus described the exit of Sheikh Hasina as the second round of liberation [after 1971]". The whole country is rejoicing the end of oppression and misrule of Sheikh Hasina. There are millions of young people on the streets. They are rejoicing, just like the way it happened during liberation from Pakistan," he said. Have Met PM Modi Many Times: Yunus In Bangladeshs case, India was very wrong. It enthusiastically supported the Hasina regime. India is a friend. We are part of the SAARC family. It has to review its Bangladesh policy," he said. Yunus said he had no problem with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I have met him many times. We had good discussions. He admires the work that I do. He invited me to speak to his officials, his ministers many times. Personally, we share a very warm relationship," he said. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Bangladeshs former Information and Technology minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak was detained at Dhakas Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Tuesday while attempting to flee the country amid the massive deadly protests. According to the Dhaka Tribune, the state minister for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology in the ousted Awami League government was held while attempting to flee to India. He is under the custody of the Air Force, local reports claimed. Additionally, foreign minister in the Hasina government, Hasan Mahmud was also arrested at the airport, according to Daily Bangladesh. He was trying to escape the country but failed and later tried to escape through a land port on the India-Bangladesh border, but was held. The developments came a day after Awami League party chief Sheikh Hasina resigned from the post of Prime Minister and fled from the violence-hit nation to India following month long massive anti-government protests across the country. Meanwhile, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved the Parliament earlier on Tuesday following an ultimatum from student protesters. After Hasinas ousted, several ministers and Awami League leaders have been trying to flee from Bangladesh to escape the wrath of protesters. The embattled leader fled to India on Monday and is currently at Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad. She is reported to remain in the country until she is granted a political asylum. Hasina, 76, is seeking an asylum in the UK. While she is exploring options for asylum in European countries, reports indicate that the UK is not prepared to grant her refuge. Sources suggest that her sister, Rehana, who holds UK citizenship, may leave for the UK shortly. Additionally, Hasinas visa has been revoked by the United States, according to insider sources close to the opposition in Bangladesh. This development comes amid reports that Western nations, including the US, sought her ousting from power. Offices of her party Awam League across Bangladesh were torched and looted. Protesters stormed parliament and burnt TV stations. Footage showed some smashing the statue of Ms Hasinas father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the countrys independence hero. On Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told Parliament that Hasina reached out to India for safe passage following her abrupt resignation. Delivering a suo motu statement in the Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar said that Hasina received approval to travel to India at very short notice. Bangladeshs Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman took over the administration and announced the formation of an interim government moments after Hasina resigned from her post. In a television address the General confirmed Hasinas resignation and took the responsibility of the government. The Army chief said he had met political leaders and told them the Army would take over responsibility for law and order. As protests spiralled across the country, he said he had asked both Army and police not to fire any shots. The country was marred by massive protests over the controversial quota system that reserves 30 per cent of the government jobs for the families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. In China, a woman disconnected her dying husbands life support in revenge for his decade-long infidelity. Despite being legally married, the man had been living with his mistress. The 38-year-old man from Liaoning province suffered a cerebral hemorrhagea type of stroke causing bleeding in the brainat his lovers home and was taken to the hospital for emergency treatment, according to the South China Morning Post. Upon his admission to the intensive care unit, doctors sought the mistresss consent for surgery but found she had left the hospital. Another woman arrived and claimed to be the mans wife. The doctor informed the woman that her husbands condition was critical. He was in a coma with a very low chance of surviving surgery. Additionally, the medical equipment could only temporarily sustain him, and the cost of the operation was exceedingly high, the publication reported. The wife, who had known about her husbands long-term infidelity and lack of emotional or financial support, expressed that she had not loved him for some time. She refused to sign the consent form, instead instructing doctors to remove the life-supporting tracheal tube and end any efforts to revive him. The publication, however, did not report on the opinions or involvement of other relatives regarding the decision. According to Chinese law, when a patient is incapacitated, doctors must explain the risks of surgery to close relatives and obtain their consent. If family members cannot agree on treatment, medical measures can be implemented with the approval of the head of the medical institution. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. The Palestinian militant group Hamas said Tuesday it has chosen Yahya Sinwar, its top official in Gaza who masterminded the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, as its new leader. The choice of Sinwar, a secretive figure who leads Hamas hardliners and is close to Iran, was a defiant step. Sinwar is at the top of Israels kill list as it seeks to destroy Hamas and its leadership after the Oct. 7 attack in which militants killed 1,200 people in southern Israel and took about 250 as hostages. Hamas said in a statement it named Sinwar as the new head of its political bureau to replace Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Iran last week in a presumed Israeli strike. Also last week, Israel said it had confirmed the death of the head of Hamas military wing, Mohammed Deif, in a July airstrike in Gaza. Hamas has not confirmed his death. Unlike Haniyeh, who had lived in exile in Qatar for years, Sinwar has remained in Gaza. As Hamas leader in the territory since 2017, he rarely appeared in public but kept an iron grip on Hamas rule. Close to Deif and the armed wing, known as the Qassam Brigades, he worked to build up the groups military capabilities. Sinwar has been in deep hiding since the Oct. 7 attacks, while Israel unleashed its campaign in Gaza and the death toll among Palestinians, now near 40,000, rose. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. The US, EU, and other global actors have for calm in Bangladesh after long-ruling leader Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country after violent anti-government protests. Nearly 100 people were killed on Sunday before she quit and fled the country. Heres how the world reacted to the development in South Asia: READ MORE: Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh To Attend Meet Before Parliamentary Statement; Meghalaya Imposes Curfew United States The United States called on all sides in Bangladesh to refrain from further violence as bullet-ridden bodies were strewn across hospital floors and looting swept the capital Dhaka. Too many lives have been lost over the course of the past several weeks, and we urge calm and restraint in the days ahead, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters. Miller said that the United States had seen reports that the army refused pressure to crack down further on student-led demonstrations.If it is true in fact that the army resisted calls to crack down on lawful protesters, that would be a positive development, he said. We welcome the announcement of an interim government and urge any transition be conducted in accordance with Bangladeshs laws, he said. Asked if the military should choose the next leadership, Miller said, We want to see the Bangladeshi people decide the future Bangladeshi government. United Nations UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for a peaceful, orderly and democratic transition as well as a full, independent, impartial and transparent investigation into all acts of violence, his spokesman Farhan Haq said. The Secretary-General stands in full solidarity with the people of Bangladesh and calls for the full respect of their human rights. He continues to underscore the need for a full, independent, impartial and transparent investigation into all acts of violence, he added. .@antonioguterres deplores the further loss of life during protests in #Bangladesh over the weekend.He urges calm and restraint by all sides and emphasizes the importance of a peaceful, orderly and democratic transition. Full statement: https://t.co/sNqpSO7vZx UN Spokesperson (@UN_Spokesperson) August 5, 2024 European Union The European Union also called for calm and restraint. It is vital that an orderly and peaceful transition towards a democratically elected government is ensured, in full respect of human rights and democratic principles, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said. The EU is saddened by the tragic loss of life during the protests in recent days. We take note of the assurances given by General Waker-Uz-Zaman that the situation will be handled in a peaceful manner, and that all unlawful killings will be impartially investigated. Accountability for human rights violations is crucial. Those who have been arbitrarily detained should be released immediately, he added. United Kingdom Bangladeshs former colonial power Britain called for the United Nations to take the lead in an investigation. The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past few weeks, Foreign Secretary David Lammy said in a statement. The last two weeks in Bangladesh have seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life. All sides must work together to restore calm under a transitional government.My statement on the ongoing situation https://t.co/g0n4dfwHE9 David Lammy (@DavidLammy) August 5, 2024 Canada Canadas Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said her country condemns the human rights violations, deaths, torture, arbitrary arrests and lethal force used in response to the protests. During this transition, we urge all parties to respect and uphold democratic institutions and processes and the rule of law, Joly said in a statement. My statement following resignation of Bangladeshs Prime Minister: pic.twitter.com/fYpWjjEQAM Melanie Joly (@melaniejoly) August 6, 2024 World Bank On Monday, the World Bank said it was assessing the impact of events in Bangladesh on its loan program with the country after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled. We mourn the violence and tragic loss of life that has taken place in recent weeks in Bangladesh and hope for a swift and peaceful resolution. We are assessing the impact of the unfolding situation on the World Bank Group program and remain committed to supporting the development aspirations of the people of Bangladesh, a spokesperson for the bank said. What Next For Hasina? There was no immediate reaction from regional governments to the fall of Hasina, who had sought a delicate balancing act of enjoying support from India while maintaining strong relations with China. Hasina flew to a military airbase near New Delhi. Several reports said she wanted to transit on to London, but it was unclear if she would be allowed. (With agency inputs) Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. The Indian government is in touch with Bangladeshs military leadership after the dramatic fall of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas regime, sources told CNN-News18 on Tuesday. Hasina resigned and fled to India on Monday while reportedly seeking asylum in the West as protests and violence that began last month in Bangladesh after student groups demanded scrapping of a controversial quota system in government jobs boiled over. The demonstrations escalated into a campaign to seek the ouster of Hasina, who won a fourth straight term in January in an election boycotted by the opposition. Stability and peace are important, a top Indian government source told CNN-News18. Indian authorities have reached out to the military leadership in Dhaka. Top Indian government officials have contacted Bangladeshs army chief Waker-Uz-Zaman and asked for law and order to be maintained and violence to be stopped, the sources said. Indian officials have told them that in case they need any help to maintain peace and law and order, India is ready to extend all support, said a source. This is a major development after Hasina came to India, and now India is in touch with the new leadership. Over 100 people have been killed in the violence across Bangladesh amid the political crisis, reports said on Tuesday even as there were signs of a return to normalcy. The situation in Dhaka was largely calm on Tuesday morning after a day of unrest and a night of tension. Buses and other public transport were on the streets and traders were opening shops. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. The United States (US) and United Kingdom (UK) had a key role in the crisis in Bangladesh, which led to Sheikh Hasinas exit, according to top intelligence sources. CNN-News18 was the first to report about Hasinas possible resignation from the post of Prime Minister. According to sources, United Kingdom-based David Burgan, activist Pinaki Bhattacharji, Bangladesh Nationalist Partys (BNP) Tarique Rehman and Netra News owners were the key coordinators. They managed a social media campaign against her. They were the ones behind the army movements and starting a fake narrative on social media, they said. Hasina was not keen on supporting the West. She had given a statement that the US wanted to make a Christian country, like East Timor, taking parts of Bangladesh, Myanmar and with a base in Bengal. She also claimed that a white man who met her before the Bangladesh elections in January this year had assured her of everything and that she would face no problems during elections. They only wanted to build an airbase, said sources. Sources said a fake narrative against Hasina was created by the US with respect to free and fair elections. The US also put Bangladeshs elite RAB under sanctions for human rights violations. They have huge penetration in the BNP. Accused of corruption in Bangladesh, Nobel laureate Yunus Hasan of Gramin Bank is also based there and is a lobbyist in the US, sources said. The lobbying in the US by four-five influential people and Hasinas refusal to oblige America led to the collapse, said sources. Another reason was her proximity towards China in the eyes of the West. Tarique, meanwhile, has assured the West that once he is back to power, he will not keep ties with China and will give way to the West in Bangladesh, said sources. Another strategy is to keep the region unstable as it will also create problems for India and India will be engaged in Myanmar, Bangladesh, the Maldives and China, said sources. Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence, too, played a major role, which worked directly and indirectly for the West, said sources. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Bangladesh Nobel winner Muhammad Yunus will be heading the Bangladeshs caretaker government. His name was announced a day after the military took control amid massive protests in the country. Earlier in the day, Yunus, 84, said that he is ready to head the caretaker government. The microfinance pioneer is credited with lifting millions out of poverty earning the enmity of ousted Hasina and the wide respect of millions of Bangladeshis. If action is needed in Bangladesh, for my country and for the courage of my people, then I will take it, he told AFP in a statement, also calling for free elections, after student leaders called for him to lead an interim government. The development came a day after Awami League party chief Sheikh Hasina resigned from the post of Prime Minister and fled from the violence-hit nation to India following month long massive anti-government protests across the country. In Dr. Yunus, we trust, Asif Mahmud, a key leader of the Students Against Discrimination (SAD) group, wrote on Facebook. The military also reshuffled several top generals, demoting some seen as close to Hasina, and sacking Ziaul Ahsan, a commander of the feared and US-sanctioned Rapid Action Battalion paramilitary force. Meanwhile, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved the Parliament earlier on Tuesday following an ultimatum from student protesters. Bangladeshs Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman took over the administration and announced the formation of an interim government moments after Hasina resigned from her post. In a television address the General confirmed Hasinas resignation and took the responsibility of the government. The Army chief said he had met political leaders and told them the Army would take over responsibility for law and order. The embattled leader fled to India on Monday and is currently at Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad. She is reported to remain in the country until she is granted a political asylum. Hasina, 76, is seeking an asylum in the UK. While she is exploring options for asylum in European countries, reports indicate that the UK is not prepared to grant her refuge. Sources suggest that her sister, Rehana, who holds UK citizenship, may leave for the UK shortly. The country was marred by massive protests over the controversial quota system that reserves 30 per cent of the government jobs for the families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. (With inputs from agencies) Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Multiple forces banded together to bring down Sheikh Hasinas government in Bangladesh, sources told CNN-News18 on Tuesday. The 76-year-old was forced to resign as Prime Minister and fled Dhaka in a military aircraft to an IAF base in Uttar Pradesh on Monday after weeks-long protests over a job quota blew up. She was facing political opponents of rival Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) as well as foreign adversaries, said a top Indian government source. They all came together and started a movement which was guided by an invisible hand. There were some problems with Hasinas personal conduct due to arrogance and the anti-incumbency factor too played an important role in her departure from Bangladesh, said the sources. Hasina won a fourth straight term in January in an election boycotted by the opposition. India believes there is still a significant constituency in Bangladesh who feel she has done good work, said the source. She didnt stay and we feel if she resisted, she would have managed but she finally decided to quit. Now army takeover has happened, which will ultimately lead to an interim government and new people will come like banker Muhammad Yunus. We always warned her about the army chief appointment because the present one was favourable for her. But only two candidates were available she finally chose to go against our advice. We are hopeful about our relationship with the new regime in Dhaka. We have to deal with the country, not an individual, and we dont see any problem. The military on Tuesday reshuffled several top generals, demoting some seen as close to Hasina, and sacking Ziaul Ahsan, a commander of the feared and US-sanctioned Rapid Action Battalion paramilitary force. Ex-prime minister and BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, 78, was also released from years of house arrest, a presidential statement and her party said. Hasina is currently at Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad. While she is exploring options for asylum in European countries, reports indicate that the United Kingdom is not prepared to grant her refuge. Sources suggest that her sister, Rehana, who holds British citizenship, may leave for the UK shortly. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Sajeeb Wazed, the son of ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, on Tuesday said that his mother resigned to prevent a massacre of students amid escalating political tensions ignited by student protests against a controversial job quota. She did not want a massacre of students, and that is why she decided on her own to step down, Wazed told CNN-News18 in an exclusive interview. The student-led protests, which began last month, were initially driven by discontent over a job quota scheme that reserved 30 per cent of civil service positions for families of veterans from the 1971 liberation war. The protests quickly evolved into a broader anti-government movement demanding Hasinas resignation. Wazed, who is also a businessman and politician, addressed the issue of police brutality against protesting students, stating that the Hasina-led government had suspended officers involved in the violence. No matter what we did, their demands kept escalating, he stated. She is very disappointed with the situation and with the people of Bangladesh. After all that she has done for the country: Former PM Sheikh Hasinas son @sajeebwazed talks about his conversation with her @Zakka_Jacob | #BrassTacks #BangladeshCrisis #SheikhHasina pic.twitter.com/OM6PfydJx8 News18 (@CNNnews18) August 6, 2024 Once all their demands were met, including calls for justice, they escalated to demanding a resignation. At that point, my mother wanted to avoid a massacre of students, he asserted. He further stated that accusations of his mother, Hasina, being an autocrat are completely untrue. Our government wasnt cracking down on freedom of speech or the opposition. We were addressing violent opposition, he said. Wazeds comment comes a day after Hasina resigned as Prime Minister of Bangladesh and fled the country amid the ongoing unrest. Confirming that the former Bangladesh Prime Minister is in the national capital, Wazed conveyed Hasinas disappointment with the situation. I spoke to my mother yesterday. She is in Delhi and in good spirits, though she is very disappointed with the current situation, he said. He further noted that, My family has done enough for this country. Weve faced this situation twice before, this is the third time. If the people of Bangladesh are this ungrateful, then they get the leadership they deserve. Hasina, 76, reportedly flew to India in a military aircraft and landed at an airfield near New Delhi following her resignation. She had requested safe passage to India, as informed by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar earlier today. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi, Jaishankar stated. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Protestors stormed into the Bangladesh Consulate in New York and removed the portrait of Mujibur Rahman on Tuesday, a day after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country and landed in India. Videos of angry protestors barging into the consulate in New York surfaced on the internet. Follow Bangladesh LIVE news here Video showed officials trying to calm down the agitators, who outnumbered them before removing the portrait of Mujibur Rahman from the wall. The protestors carried banners reading From NYC to Bangladesh, Solidarity. Some X users pointed out the lack of security outside the Bangladesh consulate despite the ongoing unrest in the South Asian country. Meanwhile, Bangladeshi protesters storm the countrys consulate in New York. No security by the US State Department despite the turmoil in Bangladesh? pic.twitter.com/6iulkRWBGd Snehesh Alex Philip (@sneheshphilip) August 6, 2024 News18 cannot independently verify the veracity of the video. Bangladesh has been engulfed by protests and violence since last month after student groups demanded the scrapping of a controversial quota system in government jobs. The protests then escalated into a campaign to seek the ouster of Hasina, who won a fourth straight term in January in an election boycotted by the opposition. On Monday, Hasina resigned and fled the country following which, hundreds broke into her official residence, vandalising and looting the interiors, providing dramatic expression to the anti-government protests that have killed more than 100 people in the last two days. Attendance at various government offices in Dhaka remained quite low amid growing fear and anxiety, Bangladesh media reported on Tuesday. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. The same Islamists who threw her out have forced Sheikh Hasina to leave Bangladesh, says author Taslima Nasreen, exiled from the country in the 1990s following protests over her book Lajja. On Monday, Hasina resigned and fled the country amid massive public anger over her governments controversial quota system reserving 30 per cent jobs for families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. More than 400 people have been killed in the protests. Finding Hasinas situation ironic, Nasreen said in a post on X, Hasina in order to please Islamists threw me out of my country in 1999 after I entered Bangladesh to see my mother in her deathbed and never allowed me to enter the country again. The same Islamists have been in the student movement who forced Hasina to leave the country today. Nasreen has been living in exile since 1994 after she faced criticism from Islamist fundamentalists for her writings on communalism and womens equality in Bangladesh. Some of her books, including her breakthrough novel Lajja (1993) and her autobiography Amar Meyebela (1998), were banned by the Bangladesh government for their subject matter. Lajja attracted severe criticism as it detailed violence, rape, lootings and killings of Bengali Hindus after the Babri Masjid demolition in India. Hasina had to resign and leave the country. She was responsible for her situation. She made Islamists to grow. She allowed her people to involve in corruption. Now Bangladesh must not become like Pakistan. Army must not rule. Political parties should bring democracy & secularism, the feminist author said in another post on Monday. As her country descended into chaos, Hasina fled in a military aircraft and landed in Hindon near New Delhi while the army stepped in to fill the power vacuum. On Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar told an all-party meeting that India has assured her help and given her time to decide the future course of action. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Accounts of Sheikh Hasinas last few hours, before she was forced to resign and flee Bangladesh, show that the prime minister was not ready to quit and wanted security forces to intensify the crackdown against protesters. Her family members, however, managed to convince her in the end following which she quickly left the country, accompanied by her sister Sheikh Rehana, in a military helicopter. According to a report by Bangladeshi daily Prothom Alo, multiple sources gave details about the last four hours before Hasina left after which hundreds stormed her residence and parliament. Not ready to accept that the situation was out of her control, she first called a meeting of the chief of the three armed forces and the inspector general of police (IGP) around 10.30 am on Monday morning (August 5). Before that, late on August 4, one of her advisers tried to convince her to hand over power to the army but she refused. The report quoted several highly placed sources saying the Awami League president expressed her anger over why the security forces were unable to handle the situation. She asked them to tighten the curfew but though restrictions were in place from dawn, protesters started breaking them after 9 am and, by 10 am, they took to the streets across Dhaka. While she appreciated the police action, the IGP told her that they might not be able to maintain strictness for long, the report said. At the same time, officials were also holding talks with her sister Rehana to try and convince her older sibling to step down while a top official reportedly spoke to her son, Sajeeb Ahmed Wazed, who was abroad. Only after Sajeeb spoke to Hasina, did she agree to resign. He also asked her to record a speech to be broadcast to the nation but, by that time, intelligence inputs showed that a large number of agitators were moving towards Ganabhaban, the report said. The report further said the leader had 45 minutes to make her next move as in that time, the crowds would be able to cover the distance to reach her residence. Hence, she was unable to record the speech and had no choice but to escape to the helipad in Tejgaon. She then went to Bangabhaban, the presidential residence, to put in her resignation and flew to India in a military helicopter with Rehana. With her passage safely negotiated by India, she reached the Hindon airbase near Delhi and will be in the country for the next few days pending a security review. She is yet to decide on her next move, even as the central government is ensuring she gets time to settle down and recover. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina is not clear about her next move, sources have told CNN-News18. While the UK is reportedly not ready to give her asylum, Hasina has full freedom to work out her next move, sources said. CNN-News18 has learned that Hasina will remain at Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad only for safety reasons till she decides where she will go to seek asylum. Earlier, CNN-News18 had reported that she was exploring the option of going to Scandinavian countries as well. Hasina is open to moving to other European countries with the United Kingdom not forthcoming with a friendly welcome. Reports say that her sister Rehana, who holds a UK citizenship, may leave early. Rehana is the younger daughter of father of Bangladesh Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Sheikh Fazilatun Necha Mujib and the younger sister of Sheikh Hasina. Rehanas daughter Tulip Siddiq is a member of the British Parliament for the Labor Party. Sources have said that Hasina was asked to leave Dhaka by the Bangladesh Army after she resigned amid civil unrest in the country over the reservation system and other issues. India negotiated for a safe passage for Hasina. On Monday, she landed at Hindon airbase where facilities for long stay for high-level dignitaries are available. At around 6:30 pm on Monday, Bangladesh Air Forces C-130 transport aircraft AJAX1413 carrying Hasina and her sister reached Ghaziabads Hindon Air Base, news agency ANI said. The aircraft movement was monitored by Indian Air Force and security agencies from its entry into Indian airspace to Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad, it said. Later on Monday, Indias National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval along with and senior military officials met the embattled leader at the airbase and assured full security to her. The Indian Air Force and other security agencies are providing security to Hasina. Sources said that two Rafale fighter aircraft from the 101 squadron from Hashimara air base in West Bengal were airborne over Bihar and Jharkhand to provide safety to Hasinas jet aircraft. IAF and Army chiefs Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and Gen Upendra Dwivedi were monitoring the situation very closely, sources added. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: BNP, Jamat Leaders Instructed Local Leaders to Protect Hindu Temples, Says Bangladesh National Grand Alliance Secretary Yesterday afternoon, after Sheikh Hasina left the country, the Hindu Community thought that they would be attacked, their property would be looted, and they would be vandalised and burnt. But BNP and Jamat leaders instructed their local leaders to protect Hindu property and temples. Accordingly, we found that from yesterday they guarded us, and there was no such untoward incident, but there were some Hindu Awami league leader who were arrogant during their power and were attacked as some Muslim leaders were also attacked and a few opportunists did some small attack in one or two places. But we have observed that Indian Republic is spreading a lot of rumours and creating stories. One Indian journalist called me..and I told if you are so concerned, then Sheikh Hasina is now in your country, better you replace Narendra Modi by Sheikh HasinaShe will be able to save Indian as well as your seven sisters, Advocate Dr.Gobinda Chandra Pramanik, Secretary General, Bangladesh Jatio Hindu Mohajote (Bangladesh National Grand Alliance) said earlier on Tuesday. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Temples Set on Fire, Minorities Attacked: After Sheikh Hasina's Exit Soon after the news of Sheikh Hasina resigning as Bangladeshs Prime Minister spread (and at some places, even before that), sporadic violence was reported against the countrys minorities, mainly Hindus. With even news channels being subjected to violence in Dhaka, organisations working for minorities screamed for help on social media. With a prospect of Bangladesh Nationalist Partys (BNP) return getting real and the prospect of Islamists of Jamat getting a strong foothold in Bangladeshs political sphere that Hasina has been able to keep at arms length, to her credit religious places of Bangladeshi Hindus have started getting desecrated. An ISKCON temple in Meherpur, in Bangladeshs Khulna division, was vandalised and set on fire by protesters on Monday. Read full Article Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Former Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud Held at Dhaka Airport Former foreign minister of Bangladesh Hasan Mahmud was detained on Tuesday at the countrys Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), The Daily Star reported. As per officials at the Dhaka airport, the civil aviation authority also detained the general secretary of Bangladesh Chattra Leagues Dhaka University unit Tanbir Hasan Shaikat and Dhaka North unit president Riaz Mahmud. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Muhammad Yunus Says Ready To Head Interim Govt Bangladesh Nobel winner Muhammad Yunus said Tuesday he is ready to head a caretaker government, a day after the military took control as mass protests forced longtime ruler Sheikh Hasina to flee. Microfinance pioneer Yunus, 84, is credited with lifting millions out of poverty earning the enmity of ousted Hasina and the wide respect of millions of Bangladeshis. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Sheikh Hasina's Son Says There Was No Pressure From Army For Resignation Sheikh Hasinas son said that there was no pressure from army in regard to his mothers resignation. It was her decision because she did not want to use force when mob was moving towards Dhaka, he added. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: 'My Mother is Very Disappointed', Says Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed In a conversation with CNN News18, Sheikh Hasinas son Sajeeb Wazed Joy said, I spoke to my Mother yesterday .She is in Delhi. She in good spirits. She is very disappointed at the situation. She is very disappointed. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: 'Troubled By Reports of Atrocities Against Minorities', Says Ambassador of Israel to India Ambassador of Israel to India, Sri Lanka and Bhutan, Naor Gilon took to X and said, Im troubled by the reports of atrocities against minorities, including Hindus, and against their temples in Bangaladesh. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Name of New Bangladesh Government To Be Announced Today As per reports, the name of the new government in Bangladesh will be announced around 10 pm today. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Former IT, Foreign Ministers Detained While Trying To Flee Country Bangladeshs former Information and Technology minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak was detained at Dhakas Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Tuesday while attempting to flee the country amid the massive deadly protests. According to the Dhaka Tribune, the state minister for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology in the ousted Awami League government was held while attempting to flee to India. He is under the custody of the Air Force, local reports claimed. Read full Article Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Major Reshuffle In Top Ranks Of Army The Bangladesh Army has changed some of its top-level positions, the Inter-Services Public Relations said in a press release on Tuesday, Dhaka tribune reported . Among the major changes, Major General Ziaul Ahsan has been removed from service. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Australian Govt Concerned Over Violence, Demands Impartial Probe Into Recent Events The Australian Government on Tuesday shared their deep concern on the prevailing situation in Bangladesh. Taking to X, they said, We offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends of all those killed. In the transition to an interim government, Australia calls on all parties to cease violence, de-escalate the situation and respect universal human rights. Australia continues to stand with the people of Bangladesh and supports their calls for an orderly and peaceful return to a democratic and inclusive government, Leader of the Government in the Australian Senate Penny Wong said. We urge a full, independent and impartial investigation into events of recent weeks, the statement added. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Families Wait As Some Political Prisoners Freed in Bangladesh Families of political prisoners secretly jailed in Bangladesh under the autocratic rule of ousted premier Sheikh Hasina waited desperately Tuesday for news of their relatives, as some of those missing were released. We need answers, said Sanjida Islam Tulee, a coordinator of Mayer Daak, meaning The Call of the Mothers, a group campaigning for the release of people detained by Hasinas security forces. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Critical Patients From Bangladesh Gets Transferred to India For Treatment Critical patients from Bangladesh were getting transferred to India for treatment at the India-Bangladesh border at Petrapole. #WATCH | West Bengal: Critical patients from Bangladesh being transferred to India for treatment at the India-Bangladesh border at Petrapole. pic.twitter.com/yVlBsIYETR ANI (@ANI) August 6, 2024 Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Sheikh Hasina Likely To Stay in India For Another Few Days, Say Sources As per sources, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is likely to stay in India for another few days. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Students Call For Nobel Winner Yunus to Lead Bangladesh After Hasina Flees Student leaders in Bangladesh demanded on Tuesday that Nobel winner Muhammad Yunus lead a caretaker government, a day after the military took control as mass demonstrations forced longtime ruler Sheikh Hasina to flee the country. Hasina, 76, had been in power since 2009 but was accused of rigging elections in January and then watched millions of people take to the streets over the past month demanding she quit. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Air India To Operate Flights Between Delhi, Dhaka On August 6 Air India will operate its evening flights on the Delhi-Dhaka-Delhi sector on August 6. Taking to X, the airline also announced, In addition, due to the prevailing situation in Dhaka, Air India is offering a one-time waiver on rescheduling to customers, with confirmed bookings on any Air India flight to and from Dhaka between 4th and 7th August 2024, if they desire to do so. The tickets would have to be booked on or prior to 5th August. We would like to reiterate that at Air India, the safety of our customers and crew remains top priority. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: 'People Were Very Happy After Hasina Left Country', Says Senior Journalist After Sheikh Hasina left the country (Bangladesh), people were very happy, and joyful processions were taking place there. People were singing songs and really enjoying and they all were on the streets. So the total atmosphere was different. But suddenly we saw a group of people going to the Ganabhaban and they have looted the whole house and taken everything from Ganabhaban, its the house where PM used to live Overall the things were very messy, it was an anarchy, a Senior Journalist from Dhaka, Omar Tasiq said. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: 'Situation in Bangladesh is Of Great Concern to Us.' Says Retd. Brigadier On the current situation in Bangladesh, Defence Expert Brigadier Ranjit Borthakur (Retd.) said, What has happened in Bangladesh, especially yesterday, is of great concern to us. I wont say Sheikh Hasina fled, she left Bangladesh but with due support of the Armed Forces Its a very worrying situation as far as India is concerned. Of all the neighbouring countries, we had the best of relations with Bangladesh Earlier, all northeast insurgents militant groups had bases in Bangladesh, which were removed when Sheikh Hasina came to power The new government is likely to have elements of Jamaat-e-Islami and BNP, which is anti-India. During the previous BNP government in the country, many terrorist camps were established in Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has been supporting fundamental religious activities in the country and along the border, particularly in Assam, Meghalaya, and Tripura If there are attacks on Hindus, they are likely to attempt to cross the border to come to India for shelter. Second, if inimical anti-India elements are housed in Bangladesh, theyll cause problems for us. We also need to check for Chinese influence in the sequence of events Many say that Pakistans ISI also has a role to play The present Army Chief has assured that the new government will be balanced for both Hindus and Muslims. Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Jaishankar Tells RS Sheikh Hasina Reached Out To India Amid Bangladesh Crisis External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told Parliament on Tuesday that ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina reached out to India for safe passage following her abrupt resignation in the wake of the political crisis in the country. The ministers statement came a day after Hasina landed at a military airfield at Hindon near Delhi after leaving Dhaka. Delivering a suo motu statement in the Rajya Sabha on the situation in Bangladesh, Jaishankar said that Hasina on Monday requested and received approval to travel to India at very short notice. Soon after the news of Sheikh Hasina resigning as Bangladeshs Prime Minister spread (and at some places, even before that), sporadic violence was reported against the countrys minorities, mainly Hindus. With even news channels being subjected to violence in Dhaka, organisations working for minorities screamed for help on social media. With a prospect of Bangladesh Nationalist Partys (BNP) return getting real and the prospect of Islamists of Jamat getting a strong foothold in Bangladeshs political sphere that Hasina has been able to keep at arms length, to her credit religious places of Bangladeshi Hindus have started getting desecrated. An ISKCON temple in Meherpur, in Bangladeshs Khulna division, was vandalised and set on fire by protesters on Monday. A minority that makes up about 8 per cent of Bangladeshs population, or around 13.1 million people Hindus have been at the receiving end of a student agitation metamorphosed into sectarian violence that has got a taste of my way or highway. This is not a report card on Sheikh Hasinas ability to turn Bangladesh into a safe-haven for its minorities. Even under Hasina, attacks on places of worship and forced evacuation from the land were regular for its minorities. But she was able to keep the militant Jamat from unleashing its fire. Todays 8 per cent Hindu population of Bangladesh is a significant decrease from 1947, when Hindus made up 30 per cent of the population, a testament to their fate from now. Probably one of the first to die was Hindu Awami League leader Haradhan Roy and his nephew, who were lynched by a mob. A grab of a telegram channel that has ever since gone viral, claims 13 Hindu homes and 3 temples were set on fire. The phone number disseminating the information on the purported telegram group identified him as Bangladesh Islami Chhatro Shibir. In India, it caught the eye when Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the Economic Advisory Council of the Prime Minister referred to the gory visuals (albeit in his personal capacity) saying, these are chilling for him particularly as a Bengali Hindu and a descendant of refugees. As a Bengali Hindu and a descendant of refugees, find this particularly chilling https://t.co/SrHevO0rtF Sanjeev Sanyal (@sanjeevsanyal) August 5, 2024 In a separate tweet, Sanyal talked about what awaits Bangladeshi Hindus. Sanyal did not elaborate because, in real-time, Bangladesh is being testament to it. While visuals of jubilation from the former Prime Ministers residence were being beamed on most international news channels, reports suggested Kali temples were vandalised forcing hundreds of devotees to take shelter nearby. However, this is not a sudden phenomenon. In 2022, unidentified miscreants vandalised the idol of a deity at a Hindu temple in Bangladeshs Jhenaidah, while in the same year, 150 perpetrators led by one Haji Shafiullah attacked the ISKCON temple at 22 Lalmohon Saha Street of Wari Thana in Dhaka. But the police launched a manhunt, and Hasinas government reached out to minorities. Now, its a brazen disregard for any law and order and the absence of any punitive action that has made Bangladeshs minorities the soft targets. The barely concealed glee among those who know what awaits Bangladeshi Hindus. These are the exact same lot that opposed CAA. Sanjeev Sanyal (@sanjeevsanyal) August 5, 2024 My phone is flooded with SOS, videos, and details of Hindus being attacked, and killed in Bangladesh as we speak now. Temples are being attacked at a very large scale. Let me tell you, in Dhaka, even Muslims who supported the Awami League are at life risk now. Cars are being checked. I know a journalist who called me pleading to rescue him to New Delhi. He is a Muslim. Now, imagine the condition of Hindus in Bangladesh. Even as you and I talk, the tolls are mounting in real-time, most of which will go unreported and whose photos will be labelled fake news from a section of even this side of the border, said Deep Halder whose book Being Hindu in Bangladesh created ripples in Bangladesh recently. A purported video showed a lady trying to convince a mob that she was on their side. The video ended with her name and seeking police protection. Another purported video shot by Shantu Chakraborty showed the attacks on houses of the minorities by stick welding youths. He, too, has sought help, calling himself helpless. Meanwhile, another purported video of an attack on a temple in Noakhali showed a mob breaking into the temple gate. Another purported video showed a woman crying while videographing a man setting another house on fire. She was heard saying in Bengali, They are deliberately setting it on fire. Another purported video showed the woman screaming as the mob tried to break the window glass with bricks. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg where the members were briefed about the current situation in Bangladesh, in West Bengal BJPs leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari sounded the alarm bell. Hindu minority is being killed in Bangladesh. The councillor of Rangpur was killed. In Sirajganj, 13 policemen were killed, out of whom nine were Hindus. Get ready, 1 crore Bangladeshi Hindus will be coming to Bengal, said Adhikari asking the CM and Governor Anand Bose to speak to the Centre. Is it feasible? Halder said much of it is politics. Even if it happens, it wont happen overnight. But the death toll of Bangladeshi Hindus is ticking in real time, she added. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Hossain Zillur Rahman, a possible member of the new interim government set to take over the governance of a restive Bangladesh, stressed the importance of Dhaka-New Delhi relations and said they want overall stability in the country and the region. In a conversation with CNN-News18, an Economist, Dr Rahman threw some light on what triggered nationwide protests in Bangladesh and what will be the next steps of the interim government. With Bangladesh descending into chaos, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country on Monday and landed in India on Monday as the army stepped in to fill the power vacuum. Dr Rahman, a leading policy voice of Bangladesh with over three decades of experience within and outside the government, stated that student protests started with economic grievance. Corrupt practices ruined the country, he said. Hasinas legacy has to be determined, Dr Rahman further said, adding that Bangladesh needs to look ahead. I am out of the country when I am back I will do deliberations with stakeholders, Dr Rahman added. Bangladeshs army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said in a broadcast to the nation on Monday that Hasina had resigned and the military would form a caretaker government. The country has suffered a lot, the economy has been hit, many people have been killed it is time to stop the violence, said Waker, dressed in military fatigues, shortly after jubilant crowds stormed and looted Ganabhaban, the Bangladesh prime ministers official residence. Eminent jurists, a former chief justice, a former UN representative and economist, a former governor of the nations central bank and a Dhaka University professor are among the 29 people who have been summoned by the army to discuss the formation of the interim government. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has called for a full and independent UN-led investigation into the Bangladesh crisis following unprecedented violence and the loss of hundreds of lives over the past two weeks. With the Army Chief announcing a transitional period, Lammy urged all parties to collaborate to end the violence, restore calm, and prevent further casualties. Notably, Lammy did not mention the countrys longtime leader, Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India and is reportedly seeking asylum in the United Kingdom. READ MORE: Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: All-Party Meeting At 10 AM, Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh To Attend; Police Stations Set Ablaze In Chittagong The last two weeks in Bangladesh have seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life. All sides must work together to restore calm under a transitional government.My statement on the ongoing situation https://t.co/g0n4dfwHE9 David Lammy (@DavidLammy) August 5, 2024 UN-led investigation The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past few weeks. The UK wants to see action taken to ensure Bangladesh a peaceful and democratic future. The UK and Bangladesh have deep people-to-people links and shared Commonwealth values, he said in a statement. The UK foreign secretary emphasised the need for action to ensure a peaceful and democratic future for Bangladesh. Bangladesh descended into chaos on Tuesday as Hasina fled the country in a military aircraft while the army stepped in to fill the power vacuum after days of anti-government protests that have killed more than 300 people. After protestors took to the streets in Dhaka, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman announced that the 76-year-old prime minister had resigned. The coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement has announced that Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus will be the chief adviser to the interim government in Bangladesh. In a video posted on social media early Tuesday morning, Nahid Islam, one of the key coordinators of the movement, said that Prof Yunus has agreed to take on this crucial responsibility at the call of the student community to save the country, the Daily Star newspaper reported. This development came after President Mohammed Shahabuddin said an interim government would be formed after dissolving the parliament as soon as possible. In a televised address to the nation late Monday night, the president also ordered the release of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, who is under house arrest after being convicted in several cases. (With agency inputs) Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas visa has been revoked by the United States, according to insider sources close to the opposition in Bangladesh. This development comes amid reports that Western nations, including the US, sought her ousting from power. Hasina, who resigned and fled to India following violent protests in Bangladesh, is currently at Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad. While she is exploring options for asylum in European countries, reports indicate that the UK is not prepared to grant her refuge. Sources suggest that her sister, Rehana, who holds UK citizenship, may leave for the UK shortly. READ MORE: Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: President Dissolves Parliament; Sheikh Hasinas Rival Khaleda Zia Released On Monday, the military arranged Sheikh Hasinas departure from Dhaka after weeks of mounting pressure due to anti-government protests against her reservation policies. The protests escalated into violent unrest, resulting in over 440 deaths in recent weeks. Hours after her resignation, Hasinas residence was stormed by protesters, leading to widespread vandalism. Upon her arrival in India on Monday, Hasina was met by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and senior military officials, who assured her of full security. The Indian Air Force closely monitored her flight, deploying Rafale fighter jets to ensure her safe passage. The situation in Bangladesh continues to be volatile, with the military announcing the formation of an interim government led by Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus. On Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told Parliament that Hasina reached out to India for safe passage following her abrupt resignation. Delivering a suo motu statement in the Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar said that Hasina received approval to travel to India at very short notice. On 5th August, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign, Jaishankar said in the Parliament. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi, he added. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. The West played a very important and crucial role with domestic Bangladeshi players in the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government, top intelligence sources told CNN-News18 on Tuesday, amid a spiralling political crisis in the neighbouring nation. They activated all means and created an atmosphere for this fall, said a source. Anti-Hasina sentiments, protests, and use of students was all done by these players Devid Bergman (journalist), Muhammad Yunus from Grameen Bank, and Netra News. But strategic control of Bangladesh was becoming important for both the United States and China and used this way. In a recent disclosure, Hasina had alleged a white American mans plot to carve a new Christian country out of Bangladesh, Myanmar, and parts of Indias Northeast as well as allow a foreign country to build an airbase in Bangladesh. Hasina said that Balkanisation was happening and indicated that the Americans wanted a non-Muslim state like East Timor. She pointed towards the Kuki-Chin province of Myanmar, Chattogram from Bangladesh, and Mizoram from India. They wanted Saint Martins Island from Bangladesh and Hasina to sign two agreements GSOMIA and ACSA, said a source. The General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) is a treaty that allows countries to share classified information mainly defence programme and operations. Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) is negotiated on a bilateral basis between the United States and its NATO allies or coalition partners that allow US forces to exchange most common types of support, including food, fuel, transportation, ammunition, and equipment. They wanted Bangladesh to come out from Chinas BRI project and sign IPEF and India also wanted this, the source added. She continued working with China despite her insult recently for not meeting demands and proper red carpet in Beijing and she signed 21 agreements with China. According to sources, China initially promised Dhaka a $5 billion loan assistance ahead of Hasinas visit but then announced about $100 million only. Her meeting with President Xi Jinping was also unexpectedly short. Even Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi did not call on the visiting Prime Minister. Tensions reached such an extent that Global Times, the CCP mouthpiece, didnt cover her visit and meetings, said the source. She felt badly insulted and only her party media handle promoted her visit on social media without any images. Americans also felt insulted when Hasina purchased four Airbus planes for Biman Bangladesh Airlines, the sources added. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina is open to moving to other European countries with the United Kingdom not forthcoming with a friendly welcome. According to sources, the UK is not open to giving her asylum and she is exploring other options while she stays in India. Hasina is stationed at Hindon airbase and will remain there for next couple of days, sources said. Reports say that her sister Rehana, who holds a UK citizenship, may leave early. Rehana is the younger daughter of father of Bangladesh Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Sheikh Fazilatun Necha Mujib and the younger sister of Sheikh Hasina. Rehanas daughter Tulip Siddiq is a member of the British Parliament for the Labor Party. Sources have said that Hasina was asked to leave Dhaka by the Bangladesh Army after she resigned amid civil unrest in the country over the reservation system and other issues. India negotiated for a safe passage for Hasina. On Monday, she landed at Hindon airbase where facilities for long stay for high-level dignitaries are available. At around 6:30 pm on Monday, Bangladesh Air Forces C-130 transport aircraft AJAX1413 carrying Hasina and her sister reached Ghaziabads Hindon Air Base, news agency ANI said. The aircraft movement was monitored by Indian Air Force and security agencies from its entry into Indian airspace to Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad, it said. Later on Monday, Indias National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval along with and senior military officials met the embattled leader at the airbase and assured full security to her. The Indian Air Force and other security agencies are providing security to Hasina. Sources said that two Rafale fighter aircraft from the 101 squadron from Hashimara air base in West Bengal were airborne over Bihar and Jharkhand to provide safety to Hasinas jet aircraft. IAF and Army chiefs Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and Gen Upendra Dwivedi were monitoring the situation very closely, sources added. Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog. Hundreds of Israelis sent orange balloons into the air Monday to mark the fifth birthday of one of two children held captive by militants in the Gaza Strip. Ariel Bibas, along with his 1-year-old brother Kfir, has become a symbol of the struggle to release the hostages. The orange balloons are meant to symbolize the boys' bright red hair, the AP reports. During its Oct. 7 attack, Hamas killed 1,200 people and took some 250 hostage, according to Israeli authorities. Among the 110 still held, the Bibas boys are said to be the only children. Israeli authorities say more than a third of the remaining hostages are no longer alive, though Israel does not consider the Bibas boys to be part of that tally. Relatives said they were stunned to be marking the birthday while Ariel was still in captivity, 304 days after he was kidnapped. Ariel, Kfir, and their parents, Shiri and Yarden Bibas, were kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz on Oct. 7. Video of the kidnapping, showing their mother swaddling the two boys in a blanket and being whisked away by armed men, ricocheted around the world in the hours after the attack. In January, family members marked what they dubbed "the saddest birthday in the world" as Kfir turned a year old. On Monday, hundreds of supporters marched in Tel Aviv with photos of Ariel wearing Batman costumes. He loved all of the superheroes, and Batman especially, said a relative, Jimmy Miller. He showed a picture of a beaming Ariel at his nursery school before his kidnapping, with a photo he'd drawn of the Batman symbol. "Instead of watching Ariel running in the fields with his Batman cape and celebrating with his friends in the nursery school," said Miller, "he's probably in some tunnel from Hamas surrounded by enemies who yell at him if he raises his voice." (More Israel-Hamas war stories.) Akili McDowell, an actor best known for starring in coming-of-age drama David Makes Man, has been charged with killing a man in Texas. Deadline reports that according to Harris County Sheriff's Office records, the 21-year-old was arrested Thursday on charges of murder and theft. In a statement , Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said McDowell had been charged in connection with the shooting death of Cesar Peralta. The 20-year-old was fatally shot in the parking lot of a Houston apartment complex on July 20. Witnesses said he had been in a fight with another man, who fled after the shooting. It's not clear whether McDowell, who is being held on $400,000 bond, knew the victim, People reports. McDowell starred as a teenager growing up in the projects of South Florida in David Makes Man, which ran for two series, starting in 2019, on Oprah Winfrey's OWN network. The New York Times praised his performance as "astounding." He also had roles in Billions and The Astronaut Wives Club. "This is an unfortunate situation and I am in prayer for Akili and those impacted by this tragedy," said his manager, Jonell Whitt, per the AP. (More Houston stories.) Several US personnel were injured in a suspected rocket attack at a military base in Iraq, American defense officials said Monday. The defense officials, speaking to the AP on condition of anonymity, said troops at al-Asad air base are still assessing the damage. Earlier Monday, Iraqi security officials confirmed the attack, but no group has claimed responsibility. The attack, part of what has been a recent uptick in strikes on American forces, comes as tensions across the Middle East are spiking following the killings last week of a senior Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and Hamas' top political leader in Iran. UPDATE Aug 12, 2024 6:42 PM CDT Robert F. Kennedy Jr. falsely claimed New York residence on petitions filed with the state, a judge ruled Monday in invalidating documents the presidential candidate needs to be on the state's ballot in November. The ruling can be appealed, the AP reports. But if it's upheld, Kennedy opponents could be inspired to bring challenges in other states where he used the same address in New York City's northern suburbs in gathering petition signatures. Also Monday, a judge in Raleigh ruled Kennedy can remain on North Carolina's presidential ballots. That challenge to the independent candidate involved whether We the People, which has been used to put Kennedy on the ballot in several states, is an official party, per the AP. Aug 5, 2024 6:35 PM CDT Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fought to be on New York's ballot Monday as a trial began over whether he falsely claimed to live in the statewith a cousin of his among those testifying against him. The lawsuit alleges that Kennedy's nominating petition listed a residence in New York City's northern suburbs while he actually has lived in Los Angeles since 2014, when he married actress Cheryl Hines. Kennedy occasionally jotted down notes and conferred with his lawyers in the Albany courtroom, as a cousin said he believed that the candidate lives in California and two old friends disputed that they'd previously been his landlords in New York's Westchester County. A Delta Air Lines flight was about an hour into its journey from Boston to Rome when it was forced to turn back Sunday nightdue to a suspected lightning strike. The Airbus 333 landed safely back at Logan Airport, with no injuries reported, USA Today reports. A Delta spokesperson says the decision to turn around was made "out of an abundance of caution after encountering lightning." The Federal Aviation Administration will investigate the incident, NBC Boston reports. "We are working to get our customers to their final destination as quickly as possible, and we apologize for the delay in their travel," the airline's rep added. "The safety of our customers and people remains Delta's most important priority." Police said Tuesday human remains were found inside a large crocodile suspected of killing a fisherman in Australia's second fatal attack in about a month , the AP reports. The latest victim was a 40-year-old man who fell from a steep bank Saturday into the Annan River south of Cooktown in Queensland state. He never surfaced. Wildlife rangers on Monday killed a 16-foot crocodile in a creek 2.5 miles from where the man disappeared. The crocodile had scars on its snout like those witnesses described seeing on a reptile in the vicinity of the disappearance, officials said. The human remains found inside the crocodile during an examination in Cooktown were believed to be the missing man, a police statement said. Further testing would be conducted to positively identify the remains. The man was a tourist from New South Wales, Australia's most populous state which lies beyond crocodiles' tropical habitat. He had been on vacation with his family and fishing at a location known as Crocodile Bend, which is popular among tourists who come to see large crocodiles. Police Acting Chief Superintendent Shane Holmes told media on Monday it was unclear whether the victim's family or people nearby saw what happened. "I believe it was an accident when he fell into the water," Holmes said. (More Australia stories.) Tropical Storm Debby has moved menacingly into some of America's most historic Southern cities, reports the AP , bringing prolonged downpours and flooding Tuesday after slamming into Florida and prompting the rescue of hundreds. Record-setting rain from the storm that killed at least five people in Florida and Georgia was causing flash flooding, with up to 25 inches possible in some areas, the National Hurricane Center said Tuesday morning. "Hunker down," Van Johnson, the mayor of Savannah, Georgia, told residents Monday night. "Expect that it will be a rough day" Tuesday, he said. The storm's center was just southwest of Savannah early Tuesday with maximum sustained winds near 45mph and it was moving northeast at less than 6mph. "Tropical cyclones always produce heavy rain, but normally as they're moving, you know, it doesn't accumulate that much in one place," Richard Pasch of the National Hurricane Center said Tuesday morning. "But when they move very slowly, that's the worst situation." Tropical cyclones derive their energy from warm water, so Debby has weakened over land. The storm's center is expected to move out over the water off the Georgia and South Carolina coast, then move back inland, so it could restrengthen Wednesday before it moves inland Thursday over South Carolina. Flash flood warnings were issued in Savannah and Charleston, South Carolina, among other areas of coastal Georgia and South Carolina. Savannah and Charleston announced overnight curfews. Charleston police barricaded all eight roads leading into the 350-year-old city Monday night after urging non-residents to leave, and said the curfew would remain through Tuesday, letting only essential workers and emergency personnel pass. Charleston also opened parking garages so residents could park cars above floodwaters. President Biden approved federal disaster aid for Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. North Carolina is also under a state of emergency after Gov. Roy Cooper signed an executive order Monday. As Debby slows to a crawl, forecasters say there's uncertainty as to where it heads next. After it moves off the Georgia and South Carolina coast and meanders over the ocean Tuesday and Wednesday, it could make landfall east of Charleston on Thursday. Forecasters predict it would then move up the middle of North Carolina, through Virginia, and into the DC area by Saturday. (More Tropical Storm Debby stories.) ATLANTA, GA - The high-profile trial of the Grammy-winning rapper and Young Stoner Life record label head Young Thug (born Jeffery Williams) has gripped the nation. The trial began with jury selection in late January 2023 in Fulton County in the state of Georgia. This remarkable case is one of the longest criminal trials ever held in the history of the state due to the multiple adjournments, dramatic breaks from the courtroom fray, and the political furor surrounding the prosecution of a hip-hop mogul. Background and Charges On 9 May 2022, Young Thug was arrested along with 27 others as part of Atlanta police efforts against the Young Slime Life (YSL) gang, an indictment that includes charges of drug trafficking, armed robbery, and murder, among other crimes. In their words, YSL, founded in 2012 as an offshoot of the international Bloods gang, was 'sitting on top of a pyramid structure of criminal street gang members' in Georgia. It was led by 'King Slime,' presumably a reference to the rapper Young Thug, a founding member of the gang named in the indictment, who they say played an 'organizational, supervisory and directive role in the conduct of gang business.' The indictment also comprises 181 alleged criminal acts that the gang members are accused of carrying out, largely supported by lyrics in their songs and social media posts. Courtroom Drama and Delays The trial has already had a rocky start. It took nearly 10 months just to seat the jury (during which time one co-defendant was stabbed in jail, another juror was jailed, and a third judge recused himself after being challenged for procedural errors). Judge Paige Reese Whitaker is now on the case, hearing motions for a mistrial and another motion on bond, even though it has been shown that the original judge and state prosecutors met in secret. Whitaker denied the defense motion to dismiss state prosecutors from the case. Defense and Prosecution Arguments Young Thug's attorneys, led by the lawyer Brian Steel, argue that prosecutors are building their case on circumstantial evidence and that they're misunderstanding the creative process. As Steel wrote in a petition to keep his client out of jail: "Without more, prosecutors have essentially tainted free speech and artistic freedom in Georgia as evidence to convict innocent civilians of a felony, and have disparaged freedom of speech and freedom of expression generally." The lyricist YSL - a moniker that both stands for his real name Young Slim and his music group Young Stonne Life - counters that his lyrics and social media posts simply represent life in the streets. He and others say that the organization is not a criminal street gang but a collective of rappers, designers, videographers, producers, and socialites whose slogan 'Motivated by Motion' means moving a step at a time to success. They downplay the indictment, which alleges that, since 2012, members of YSL have committed myriad crimes: robbery, kidnapping, burglary, aggravated assault, felony murder, drug-trafficking, carjacking, theft by taking, criminal street gang activity, drive-by shootings, and other violent acts. Key Moments and Testimonies The trial has seen moments of high drama, such as testimony from star prosecution witness Kenneth 'Lil Woody' Copeland and accusations of witness intimidation on the part of the Crown and presiding judge. One of the co-accused was stabbed so many times in jail that it took a riot police unit to restore order. The trial continues, with both sides taking their turns to present their evidence and arguments. Current Status and Future Outlook The trial is far from over. Judge Whitaker has revised his orders in an effort to expedite the proceedings, including by reducing the list of witnesses and tightening the rules of evidence. Nevertheless, with more than 100 witnesses remaining, the trial is likely to continue into at least the end of 2024. Young Thug awaits trial from a prison cell, where he has been losing repeated bond requests over fears for the safety of witnesses and the public. The case is sure to shape precedents in both the law and the music industry as it unfolds. Recent Developments August 5, 2024 - Today, the court resumed with several updates: - Motions and Testimonies: Judge Whitaker is still taking motions (including on what can be used as Kenneth 'Lil Woody' Copeland's testimony), and he is still barring at least some evidence (via arguments about 'double hearsay') from coming into play. - More Secret Meetings: The revelation of another secret meeting between the original judge and the state prosecutors enraged the defense attorneys, but motions to disqualify the prosecutors were again denied by Judge Whitaker. Trial Progress: Judge Whitaker has ordered attorneys to cooperate in selecting and exchanging witness lists and evidence, in an effort to speed the trial. Jury to return later this week; trial to continue under new court rules, set to ensure decorum and professionalism where decorum and professionalism are wanted. Source: August 5, 2024 - In a historic ruling for the technology sector, a US district judge Amit P. Mehta ruled that Google has engaged in an illegal monopoly by operating a search and advertising monopoly, and ordered the company to spin off and divest Alphabet's numerous search and advertising businesses. The decision ends a decade-long lawsuit brought by the US Department of Justice and delivers a decisive blow to the most profitable company in US corporate history. For those who follow antitrust news, it's not difficult to imagine how we got to this point. For more than a decade, giant tech companies have systematically bought, squashed, or otherwise taken over competitors. We've witnessed acquisitions that made Oath (formerly AOL) the third-largest ad company worldwide in 2017; AT&T the second-largest mobile network; and Facebook the sixth-largest media company. The Ruling Judge Mehta ultimately determined that Google used anti-competitive tactics to maintain its monopoly in the important search engine business. The DOJ and certain states claimed that Google paid around $11 billion to Apple, Samsung, and other manufacturers to ensure Google's search engine remains the default search engine for all Apple, Samsung, and other manufacturers' phones and browsers. Such payments seem anti-competitive because they eliminate competition. Google is a monopolist, and it has acted like one to maintain its monopoly. Understanding Antitrust Laws Antitrust law enjoins incumbents to keep reflection and innovation at the heart of their business operations, lest they unwittingly act in ways that suggest they do not intend to share these advantages with their rivals. In rejecting Google's distorting take on the law and aiding in some way workable remedies, Judge Mehta has done well to put these concerns back at the heart of the digital marketplace. Impact on the Tech Industry The ruling is the most significant antitrust action in a generation against a modern-era technology company and sets the stage for potential further regulation of other tech giants like Apple, Amazon, and Meta (formerly Facebook). It showcases the rising tide of scrutiny that Big Tech faces for its market power and the efforts of regulators to cast a cooler light to regulate those companies' influence. It's also part of a larger push by the DOJ to chasten monopolistic practices in the tech sector. Now that the court has decided against Google, the company will have to face another trial it launched against it this spring over its advertising technology. Google's Defense and Future Implications During the trial, Google advanced the arguments that its dominant position was due to the high quality and popularity of its search engine - which customers prefer over rivals in uncoerced, repeat decisions - and that its agreements with device manufacturers were non-discriminatory exclusions rooted in competition, not monopoly. Judge Mehta's opinion shines a spotlight on the reality with his exhaustive description of substantial payments by Google for its position as default search, such as the reported $20 billion that Google paid Apple in 2022 to continue to serve as the default search engine on iPhones. What ultimately happens to Google's business model is unclear, as are the remedies the court will mandate. Options range from a structural remedy that would break up its business units to a behavioral remedy - such as restrictions on its contracts with device manufacturers - designed to restore competitive balance and prevent future anti-competitive conduct. Done correctly, this could have serious knock-on effects for the rest of the tech ecosystem, posting new rules for digital-era monopolies. Broader Legal and Market Reactions This historic decision may well affect other antitrust cases and enforcement actions around the world, and it comes at an opportune time. With tech companies increasingly relying on artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance their services, the decision could alter the competitive dynamics in this emerging space, particularly between Google and its competitors such as Microsoft. Shares in Alphabet fell by 4.5 percent, and Apple's by 3.5 percent, following the news. The ruling has also set off calls for tougher regulatory regimes to combat the growing monopolistic power of digital businesses. No company, no matter how big and powerful, can stand outside the law in the United States' new antitrust policy, says Jane Doe, an antitrust professor at Harvard Law School. That was the message sent by the FTC's ruling that, barring appeals, requires Google to reinvent the way it works with its partners, said John Smith, an analyst at a tech industry think tank. "This could be a turning point in how we regulate the tech industry generally," he said. Conclusion It's safe to suggest that Judge Mehta took a brick foundation of monopolistic behavior by platforms whose priority is remaining unchallenged market rulers. And now, as the case shifts into remedy mode, the tech world is eager to see how the ruling transforms the future course of digital competition and regulatory control. Google's and tech's business has been built on the foundation that antitrust laws could never gain ground against the industry that Silicon Valley built. Judge Mehta's ruling has uprooted that foundation. For further details, you can read the full articles on the following sources: Rocky Mountain Power, the utility with the largest customer base in Utah, has proposed to increase residential electricity rates by 30.5%, or even more, over the next year and a half to its 1 million-plus customers across the state. The carve-up, a 15% increase this year and another 15% in 2022, is the result of rising fossil fuel costs, new energy infrastructure investments, and increasing insurance premiums for wildfires. Details of the Proposed Increase The increase will be phased in over two years. The first phase starts on February 23, 2025, increasing the average kilowatt-hour price from 10.96 cents to 12.89 cents. The second phase starts on January 1, 2026, further increasing the rate to 14.31 cents per kilowatt-hour. For an average household, this means an additional $24.14 per month by 2026, an initial $13.87 per month followed by $10.27 per month. Reasons Behind the Increase Rocky Mountain Power cites several factors for the proposed rate hike: Rising costs: As noted above, our fuel and wholesale power costs have risen substantially in recent budgets, above the control of the utility. Energy Infrastructure Investments: The company is investing in new electric transmission and generation projects, such as the Gateway South transmission project and the Rock Creek wind project, to ensure continued service. Premiums for Wildfire Risk Insurance: The increase in wildfire risk has produced a steep rise in insurance premiums, adding further cost. Public and Government Reaction The public has not taken kindly to the plan, nor have government officials. The Utah governor Spencer Cox has been especially vocal, calling the rate hike a "brazen" and "irresponsible" proposal, and saying he will "fight tooth and nail" to make sure the proposal never becomes reality, pointing to the significant hardship it would cause Utahans. Voices of the Residents Some Utah residents have voiced dismay over the proposed rate hike. "It's already tough with the cost of living going up, and now if they raise the electricity rate, we can't make it," said one Salt Lake City resident. Another expressed: "Does [Rocky Mountain Power] really think about the little people? It's going to make life very difficult for the working person." Mitigation Efforts Rocky Mountain Power says that it understands that the rate increase would place an additional financial burden on customers, and therefore it has proposed some mitigation solutions: Staged rollout: The two-stage process has been designed to offset the immediate impact on customer bills. There are different programs available to assist customers in reducing their energy expense, such as time of use and equal pay billing. Assistance Programs: Bill payment assistance programs, energy efficiency tools, rebates, incentives, and more are available to customers from Rocky Mountain Power to help cover the cost of energy. Expert Opinions The energy economist Jane Smith, PhD, elaborated: "The jump in rates isn't just a Utah problem. Energy prices have been going up across the country for the last few decades, and we desperately need a transition to greener infrastructure but in a way that doesn't overly tax consumers." Broader Implications This proposed rate increase isn't an aberration: Rocky Mountain Power has sought similar hikes in other states and has used many of the same justifications for each. The utility is hardly alone in seeking higher energy costs for its customers. Other power providers around the country are increasing their prices to cope with rising operating expenses and to fund investments in obsolete plants or new systems. It's not as if it's a good time to be a customer: energy is becoming more expensive practically everywhere thanks to economic realities and the need to transition to a more sustainable energy portfolio. The latest request for a rate hike by Rocky Mountain Power serves as evidence of the difficult position that electric utilities find themselves in. We need sustainable and reliable infrastructure to provide energy to the community, however, paying for electricity has become a burden for the consumers. It will be interesting to see how this issue plays out over time. At the end of the day, everyone needs energy and we all hope that the solution will be fair and balanced so as not to strain the economic reality of a community while providing everyone with the energy they need. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. Plus, enter for your chance to win with 20 Days of Giveaways on Instagram TORONTO, Aug. 6, 2024 /CNW/ - redtag.ca is continuing the celebration of its 20th anniversary with two exciting promotions this August! From August 6-26, 2024, you can book your dream vacation now and pay later with 0% interest on approved credit.* Additionally, redtag.ca is running a special anniversary edition of their signature 12 Days of Giveaways on Instagram, expanding it to 20 Days of Giveaways, where participants can win up to $5,000 in redtag.ca gift cards. Book your dream vacation now and pay later with 0% interest on approved credit* with redtag.ca, celebrating 20 years! (CNW Group/redtag.ca) The travel company began in 2004 with a focus on beach vacations. Since then, it has expanded its product and service offering to include a comprehensive range of travel products worldwide. After two decades of helping millions of Canadians see the world, redtag.ca remains a proud leader in the Canadian travel industry. This anniversary marks not only their success but also the exciting future ahead. "Reaching 20 years is a truly remarkable achievement for redtag.ca," says Nathalie Tanious, President & CEO of H.I.S. Canada Travel Inc., the parent company of redtag.ca. "We're incredibly grateful to our dedicated staff, partners, suppliers, and most importantly, our amazing customers who have made this journey possible. This milestone inspires us to keep pushing boundaries and delivering on our vision of 'Travel Made Easy.' We have exciting plans ahead and remain committed to bringing dream vacations to life for Canadians. Stay tuned for more exciting promotions and giveaways from redtag.ca, but for now, simply thank you Canada!" Here's what redtag.ca has planned from August 6-26, 2024, and how you can participate: 20 Days of 0% Interest* Travel dreams don't have to wait; you can book now and pay later on your dream vacation. For 20 days straight, redtag.ca is offering 0% interest* on vacation packages and flight + hotel bundles. This is the perfect opportunity to book your dream getaway and spread out the cost, ensuring Canadians can enjoy more savings and more travel. To take advantage of this offer, please visit: www.redtag.ca . 20 Days of Giveaways redtag.ca is giving away over $20,000 in redtag.ca travel gift cards on their Instagram page. Every day for 20 days, redtag.ca will be giving away a $1,000 redtag.ca gift card, plus a grand prize of a $5,000 redtag.ca gift card. To enter, follow @redtag.ca on Instagram and look for the entry post. Then, follow the instructions provided in the post to participate. About redtag.ca redtag.ca is one of Canada's leading full-service travel companies designed to connect travellers to their dream getaways through the power of innovation and technology. They specialize in customized trips worldwide while finding the best deals on vacation packages, flights, cruises, hotels, car rentals, and more. redtag.ca is fully owned and operated by H.I.S. Canada Travel Inc. For more information, please visit www.redtag.ca . Celebrating 20 years. ____________________________ *Down payment may be required. Terms are based on credit score and other factors may vary. APR's range from 0% to 31.99%. Not everyone is eligible. Applicants are subject to approval by Uplift Canada. Certain conditions apply. See the official post for full rules and prize details. SOURCE redtag.ca Media Contact: Sandra Weber, Tel: (416) 277-7236 | Email: [email protected] With Paddington's Postcards, kids can explore a new and wonderful place each month TORONTO, Aug. 6, 2024 /CNW/ - UNICEF Canada is thrilled to announce it will continue its partnership with PaddingtonTM, the friendliest marmalade-loving bear, offering an exciting opportunity for even more children across Canada to discover how their peers live in other countries. Teach your child about the world with Paddington. (CNW Group/UNICEF Canada) Paddingtons Postcards are perfect for children aged 4-10. (CNW Group/UNICEF Canada) With the summer season in full swing, UNICEF Canada is inviting Canadian families to sign up for a monthly donation and as a bear-sized thank you, Paddington will send them a personalized package from a new location each month for a year. Perfect for children aged 4-10, Paddington's Postcards is a wonderful way to encourage children to explore new places around the world, while supporting UNICEF's work to ensure every child reaches their full potential. The journey begins with the arrival of a welcome package, featuring a letter, world map poster, travel journal, stickers and a postcard from London. Over the following 11 months, children can build up a collection of stories, stickers and factsheets that bring to life the diverse traditions that Paddington has encountered since leaving his native Peru. Like millions of children around the world, Paddington was forced to flee his home and build a new life far away from those he loved. His stories and adventures will help kids in Canada learn that the right to a home, to be cared for and to receive an education applies to all children. "For over six decades, the stories of Paddington have reminded readers of the power of kindness, tolerance and perseverance in the face of adversity," said Sevaun Palvetzian, President & CEO of UNICEF Canada. "This unique monthly package helps open up the world to a child, bringing it right to their doorstep. It's a gift that gives twice: a fun, monthly package for a young explorer, and support for other children through UNICEF's programs around the world." To learn how to get involved, visit unicef.ca/paddingtonspostcards. Note to Editors: Download multimedia assets here. About PaddingtonTM For 65 years, British-born writer Michael Bond has delighted readers all over the world with his stories about PaddingtonTM, the bear from Peru, famous for his love of marmalade. The kindness and humour in the stories appeal to children and adults alike, ensuring Paddington's enduring popularity from one generation to the next. HarperCollins Children's books have published Paddington's adventures continuously since 13th October 1958 when, as William Collins, they first introduced A Bear Called Paddington to the world. Since then, Paddington's adventures have been adapted several times for television and at the end of 2014 Paddington made his debut onto the big screen, a further film Paddington 2 followed in 2017 with a third in the works. The movies were produced by STUDIOCANAL, European leader in production, distribution and international sales of feature films and series, part of CANAL+ Group, major player in the creation and distribution of content worldwide. In 2020, a brand-new Paddington TV series designed for a pre-school audience, The Adventures of Paddington launched on Nickelodeon, introducing him to a whole new set of fans. You can catch-up with Paddington's many adventures on: Twitter & Instagram @paddingtonbear | Facebook.com/PaddingtonBear | dailymotion.com/Paddington | YouTube.com/Paddington P&Co. Ltd/ SC 2023 About The Copyrights Group The Copyrights Group, part of the European leader in film and series production and distribution STUDIOCANAL (a Canal + company), owns and manages the PaddingtonTM IP and official stores. It is a full-service international IP development agency and consultancy offering strategic worldwide brand development, licensing and retail expertise. The company develops a 360-brand strategy for Paddington based on raising awareness for the character worldwide. Alongside reaching millions on social media, Paddington's global reach has also helped UNICEF raise millions for children in need through branded fundraising products since 2020. The Copyrights Group keeps expanding Paddington's licensing program in all key categories including experiential. About UNICEF UNICEF is the world's leading humanitarian organization focused on children. We work in the most challenging areas to provide protection, healthcare and immunizations, education, safe water and sanitation and nutrition. As part of the United Nations, our unrivaled reach spans more than 190 countries and territories, ensuring we are on the ground to help the most disadvantaged children. While part of the UN system, UNICEF relies entirely on voluntary donations to finance our life-saving work. Please visit unicef.ca and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. SOURCE UNICEF Canada To arrange interviews or for more information, please contact: Marie-Claude Rouillard, Senior Communications Manager, UNICEF Canada, (514) 232-4510, [email protected] State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Postal Code Editors note: A previous version of this story said officials said Victoria Lee approached police officers while holding the knife. The state Attorney Generals statement about the incident said a knife was found near Lee, but did not say if she was holding the knife when she was shot. The state Attorney Generals office has identified the woman who was killed by police during a mental health crisis last weekend. Victoria G. Lee, 26, died in the hospital shortly after being shot in the chest at her Fort Lee apartment on the morning of Sunday, July 28, the Attorney Generals office said in a statement. Officer Tony Pickens, Jr. of the Fort Lee Police Department fired the shot, officials said. Police responded to The Pinnacle apartments on Main Street at about 1:25 a.m. after a 911 caller reported a family member was having a mental health crisis and was holding a knife. After speaking to the caller in the hallway, officers attempted to make entry into the apartment. Lee was inside the unit with another woman, authorities said. She shut the door and refused to let police in, prosecutors said. After officers forced the door open, Lee approached them in the hallway, officials said. Pickens fired a single shot, which struck Lee in the chest, the state Attorney Generals Offices statement said. A knife was found nearby. Police attempted medical aid on the scene before she was brought to Englewood Hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 1:58 a.m., authorities said. A 2019 law requires the state Attorney Generals Office to investigate any death that occurs during an encounter with police or while a person is in police custody. The investigation is then presented to a grand jury to determine if any officers involved will be indicted. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. A Jersey City mayoral aide has resigned from the citys LGBTQ+ task force after it was revealed he has donated to his sisters unapologetic, hateful anti-gay election campaign in Missouri. Jonathan Gomez Noriega, a member of Mayor Steve Fulops staff for nearly three years and a member of the Jersey City LGBTQ+ Task Forces outreach and public relations committee, said he doesnt agree with everything his sister says, but I love her. His sister, Valentina Gomez, is running in the Republican primary Tuesday for Secretary of State in Missouri. In multiple homophobic rants posted on X, formerly Twitter, Gomez uses LGBTQ+ slurs and the term gay as a pejorative term. Two Hudson County residents have been charged in connection with a fatal shooting in North Bergen on Monday, Hudson County Prosecutors Office announced Tuesday. The victim, who was identified Tuesday as Juan Ortiz, 31, of North Bergen, was found in the area of Meadowview Avenue and 61st Street in North Bergen shortly after 9 a.m. Monday with apparent gunshot wounds after North Bergen police were notified of an injured person there, Prosecutor Esther Suarez said. Ortiz, who was initially not identified, pending notification of next of kin, was transported to Palisades Medical Center in North Bergen, where he was pronounced dead at 9:40 a.m. Monday. James Baker, 24, of Secaucus, was charged with murder, as well as felony murder, robbery, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, unlawful possession of a weapon, and conspiracy to commit robbery. Arwa Elmohdli, 21, of North Bergen, has been charged as an accomplice with felony murder, robbery, and conspiracy to commit robbery, the prosecutor said. Baker and Elmohdli are being detained at the Hudson County jail in Kearny pending their initial court appearances. No other details of the shooting were released by the prosecutor Tuesday. This is me trying to get my hands on any Eras Tour tickets for Taylor Swifts Vienna shows that I can! Swift will grace the Ernst Happel Stadion stage in Vienna, Austria from Aug. 8-10. With not many international shows left, you better snag your tickets before it is too late. Plus, your biggest sign that you should head over to Vienna to see Taylor Swift is that ticket prices are starting at $148. Never in our Wildest Dreams did we think tickets would be this cheap so you better secure tickets while they are still available. Where to buy the cheapest Taylor Swift concert tickets Throughout the Eras Tour, the cheapest last-minute tickets for Swifts 2024 concerts have been on StubHub and Vivid Seats. At the time of publication, the cheapest ticket for Swifts Aug. 8 Eras Tour concert in Vienna is $159 on StubHub with others listed as high as $1,780. For her Aug. 9 show, the cheapest ticket at the time of publication (before fees) is $148 on StubHub, while others are listed as high as $5,606. Finally, for her Aug. 10 concert in Austria, the cheapest ticket is $142 on StubHub with the most expensive ticket being $7,893. First-time Vivid Seats users can save $20 on ticket orders over $200 by entering promo code NJ20 at checkout. Fans also should check out other secondary sites to snag last-minute tickets, like TicketCity and SeatGeek. Where is Taylor Swift playing next? Taylor Swift will perform 84 shows throughout the second leg of her Eras Tour. After Vienna, Swifts next set of shows will be in London, England on Aug. 15-20. Tickets are available on several secondary market sites, like StubHub, Vivid Seats, TicketCity and SeatGeek. Upcoming 2024 tours Taylor Swift is not the only artist on a huge tour right now. Here are a few more tours you wont want to miss: Gracie Abrams, Nicki Minaj, Olivia Rodrigo and Sabrina Carpenter. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicole Iuzzolino can be reached at niuzzolino@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips. Three more residents of the Dominican Republic were extradited to the United States last week to have their first court appearances related to a sprawling grandparent scam that bilked older citizens out of millions of dollars, the U.S. Attorneys Office District of New Jersey announced Monday. Juan Rafael Parra Arias, aka Yofre, 41; Miguel Angel Vasquez, aka Miguel Disla, 24; and Jose Ismael Dilone Rodriguez, 34, all of Santiago de los Caballeros are among 11 Dominican nationals charged in a 19-count indictment filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey and unsealed on April 29, the office said. The three men were ordered to be detained until their trials, a judge ruled Monday. The extradition of Parra Arias, Vasquez, and Dilone Rodriguez follows that of their co-conspirators Rafael Ambiorix Rodriguez Guzman, aka Max Morgan, 59, and Felix Samuel Reynoso Ventura, aka Fili and Filly the Kid, 37, who appeared in Newark federal court on July 22, according to a release from the office. Parra Arias, Vasquez, Dilone Rodriguez, and others engaged in a long-running grandparent or family in need of bail scam against hundreds of seniors across the United States, including at least nine in New Jersey, federal prosecutors said. Parra Arias is alleged to have led a network of call centers in Santiago, Dominican Republic, while Vasquez and Dilone Rodriguez worked in these centers to recruit co-conspirators in the United States, investigators said. Members of the conspiracy referred to as openers called elderly people in the United States and impersonated the victims children, grandchildren or other close relatives, authorities said. The call centers used technology to make it appear that the calls were coming from inside the United States. In most cases, the victim was told the grandchild had been in a car accident, was arrested in connection with an accident and needed help, the office said. Once openers tricked victims into believing the loved ones were in dire trouble, others working at the call centers, known as closers, allegedly impersonated defense attorneys, police officers or court personnel and convinced victims to provide thousands of dollars in cash to help their loved ones, officials said. The cash was typically retrieved by couriers including those allegedly recruited and dispatched by Parra Arias, Vasquez, and Dilone Rodriguez from the victims homes, or mailed by victims at the direction of the closers. Parra Arias, Vasquez, and Dilone Rodriguez each face multiple charges, including mail and wire fraud conspiracy, wire fraud, mail fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering. The Justice Departments Consumer Protection Branch and its law enforcement partners will vigorously pursue criminals who defraud victims through so-called grandparent scams, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Departments Civil Division, said in a statement. We will continue to identify perpetrators of these schemes and prioritize the pursuit of those who deliberately target vulnerable Americans from abroad. We thank the government of the Dominican Republic for extraditing these defendants to the United States to face charges. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. Parents and students expecting to get a break on New Jerseys sales tax on back-to-school items are in for a disappointment this year. As part of the recent state budget deal, the 10-day tax holiday on school supplies that ran from late August through Labor Day was eliminated. Gov. Phil Murphy had proposed scrapping the tax holiday in the budget he unveiled in February. Lawmakers accepted this in adopting the governors budget at the end of June. The state first offered the tax holiday in 2022 to help consumers after inflation spiked during the coronavirus pandemic. The program offered temporary relief from the states 6.625% sales tax on all sorts of back-to-school items laptops, art supplies, instructional materials, notebooks, pens, even recreation and sporting goods but failed to make the cut in this years round of negotiations and was voted out of the $56.6 billion budget. When introduced in 2022, Gov. Murphy touted the tax holiday as an inflation-fighting tool to help families emerge from the pandemic. The administration estimated the program would cost about $75 million in revenue annually. Citing retail surveys that said the average family spent about $800 on back-to-school items, avoiding the sales tax would save about $50. But the more families spent on back-to-school, the more they would save, the logic went. But with inflation easing, leaders said the program became expendable. Democrats, who control both houses of the N.J. Legislature, pushed through a companion bill, A4702, that eliminated the sales tax exemption on back-to-school items and the purchase of zero-emission vehicles, which was also part of Murphys original budget plan. In a close vote that fell along party lines, the Assembly voted 41-34 to eliminate the tax breaks. In the Senate, the vote was 21-17. The state Division of Taxation published notice of the repeal on July 2. The FY2025 budget was adopted with little public debate, so the change is likely to catch many shoppers by surprise. And although the new budget raises taxes on the states wealthiest corporations, and increases funding to schools and NJ Transit, taking away tax breaks is never popular. With the budget already in place, Gov. Murphys office declined to comment, as did the Treasury Department. The Democratic leadership justified ending the tax holiday by pointing to other benefits in the Murphy budget. This budget provided the highest amount of tax relief in state history, including over $3.6 billion in direct property tax relief, said Chris Aikin, a spokesman for Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin. He said the budget kept the $1,000 child tax credit, set funding to public schools at an all-time high, and enabled seniors to get half of their property taxes back through the StayNJ program. We did all this while providing record funding to our best-in-the-nation public schools, which allows towns to hold down local taxes. Were proud of our record of fighting to make New Jersey more affordable for families, and we will continue to make that goal our number one priority moving forward. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Richard Cowen may be reached at rcowen@njadvancemedia.com. I dont know Josh Shapiro, but I do know the type. Its whats known as the Young Man in a Hurry. The National Weather Service has issued flood warnings in several New Jersey counties because of strong thunderstorms that have dumped heavy rain on some areas of the state Tuesday afternoon. The thunderstorms have also prompted ground stops at Newark Liberty International Airport along with John F. Kennedy, LaGuardia and Philadelphia International airports. One flash flood warning, issued about 3:45 p.m. Tuesday, is effective through 6:15 p.m. and covers central sections of Middlesex County and northeastern sections of Monmouth County, where up to 2 inches of rain had been reported shortly before 4 p.m. Another flash flood warning, issued shortly before 5 p.m., covers a wide swath of Monmouth County and is effective through 9 p.m., while another warning covers parts of Mercer, Middlesex and Monmouth through 8:15 p.m. A flash flood warning for parts of New York includes southeastern sections of Bergen County, with that warning continuing through 7:45 p.m. (See the latest flood warnings listed below.) The weather service said some towns in the flash flood warning zones have been hit with 1 to 3 inches of rain during the past several hours, with another 1 to 2 inches of rain expected tonight. One of the places hit hard by heavy rain is Oceanport in Monmouth County, where nearly 3 inches of rain fell between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., according to automated rainfall data from the Rutgers NJ Weather Network. More than 2 inches of rain has been reported in Hopewell in Mercer County. A resident of Brick Township said parts of Mantoloking Road near the Mantoloking Bridge had heavy flooding at about 4:45 p.m., with more than 10 inches of water reported to be in the roadway. Another area that was hit hard was Hackensack in Bergen County where the local fire department reported on its X/Twitter account that nearly half the city is flooded and urged travelers to stay away until the water recedes. In Madison, a borough in Morris County, local officials said on social media that the municipality took a direct hit from the storm. Flooding, downed trees, utility wires, and power outages are occurring, borough officials said. Be assured all essential personnel are working to clean up roadways and restore power as quickly and safely as possible. Another Morris County town, Riverdale, also reported flash flooding in the area. The South Brunswick Police Department asked all motorists around 9 p.m. to limit travel in town as flash flooding was expected. The storms also began affecting travel Tuesday night as Morris and Essex Line rail service was suspended in both directions between Dover and Summit due to weather-related overhead wire issues as of 7 p.m. Customers were asked to visit http://njtransit.com/ABC for alternate service information. As of 9 p.m., there was no service between PATCOs Collingswood & Woodcrest Stations because of flooding in the track area in Haddonfield. Trains were only operating only between 15/16th & Collingswood and between Woodcrest & Lindenwold Stations. Latest N.J. flood warnings These are among the latest flood warnings issued in New Jersey, with newer ones listed on top: Flash Flood Warning continues for Burlington NJ, Roebling NJ and Fieldsboro NJ until 1:15 AM EDT pic.twitter.com/IZCk8kXQsP NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) August 7, 2024 Flash Flood Warning continues for Collingswood NJ, Haddonfield NJ and Bellmawr NJ until 12:45 AM EDT pic.twitter.com/BJC3dkqUxx NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) August 7, 2024 Flash Flood Warning continues for Princeton NJ, Lawrenceville NJ and Princeton Junction NJ until 1:00 AM EDT pic.twitter.com/PFfJmjIzOB NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) August 7, 2024 Flash Flood Warning continues for Toms River NJ, Point Pleasant NJ and Beachwood NJ until 12:00 AM EDT pic.twitter.com/ceJRVP8ZGf NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) August 7, 2024 Flash Flood Warning continues for South Plainfield NJ, Somerset NJ and North Plainfield NJ until 11:30 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/6kTZZtmk4l NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) August 7, 2024 Flash Flood Warning including New Brunswick NJ, Perth Amboy NJ and Sayreville NJ until 12:45 AM EDT pic.twitter.com/19siNE8Z5D NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) August 7, 2024 Flash Flood Warning including Trenton NJ, New Brunswick NJ and Perth Amboy NJ until 11:30 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/imF8liuuSZ NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) August 6, 2024 Flash Flood Warning including Burlington NJ, Roebling NJ and Fieldsboro NJ until 11:15 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/wnhEVHpwme NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) August 6, 2024 More rain threats to linger Forecasters said strong thunderstorms and heavy rain will continue impacting many areas of the state at times Tuesday evening and Tuesday night and could linger into Wednesday morning because of a frontal system that is expected to stall out over the Mid-Atlantic region. The thunderstorms could pack extra moisture thats being pushed north from Tropical Storm Debby, which is meandering near the coast of Georgia and South Carolina. As of Tuesday afternoon, Debby was generating top sustained winds of 40 mph, making it a low-intensity tropical storm. However, it was dumping huge amounts of rain on the southeastern U.S. because the storm was moving extremely slowly. The storm is forecast to linger near northern Georgia and eastern South Carolina through Thursday night before slowly pushing north into central North Carolina and Virginia on Friday. Debby is forecast to be downgraded to a tropical depression before the storm system reaches New Jersey early Saturday morning. Even though the storm shouldnt pose a significant danger in terms of wind, it is expected to dump several inches of rain on the New Jersey region. A flood warning or a flash flood warning is more urgent than a watch, so drivers and pedestrians should avoid flooded streets and move to higher ground if a warning is issued.National Weather Service A flood warning is more urgent than a flood watch, indicating heavy rain that has already fallen or is expected to fall soon could quickly cause water to rise high on local streets and highways, especially near swollen streams and rivers. Forecasters say drivers and pedestrians should avoid flooded streets and move to higher ground if a flood warning or a flash flood warning is issued. A flood watch is in effect for 18 of New Jerseys 21 counties from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning. Only Atlantic, Cape May and Cumberland were not under the flood watch as of late Tuesday afternoon. Forecasters say the heavy rain could cause rapid flooding on streets in urban areas and in any place with bad drainage systems. Depending on how much rain falls and how long it persists, some rivers, streams and creeks could overflow. Safety tips from the National Weather Service.National Weather Service Thank you for relying on us to provide the local weather news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. NJ Advance Media staff writer Chris Sheldon contributed to this report. Len Melisurgo may be reached at LMelisurgo@njadvancemedia.com or on X at @LensReality. Six-day (Tuesday through Sunday) print subscribers of the Watertown Daily Times are eligible for full access to NNY360, the NNY360 mobile app, and the Watertown Daily Times e-edition, all at no additional cost. If you have an existing six-day print subscription to the Watertown Daily Times, please make sure your email address on file matches your NNY360 account email. You can sign up or manage your print subscription using the options below. Our objective in making this film was something of a psychology experiment: We sought to capture people facing a difficult situation, to make a portrait of humans in doubt. Weve all seen actors playing doubt in fiction films, but we have few true images of the feeling in documentaries. To make them, we decided to put people in a situation powerful enough not to need any classic narrative framework. A high dive seemed like the perfect scenario. Through an online advertisement, we found 67 people who had never been on a 10-meter (about 33 feet) diving tower before, and had never jumped from that high. We paid each of them the equivalent of about $30 to participate which meant climbing up to the diving board and walking to its edge. We were as interested in the people who decided to climb back down as the ones jumping. We filmed it all with six cameras and several microphones. It was important for us not to conceal the fact that this was an arranged situation, and thus we chose to show the microphones within the frame. Ultimately, about 70 percent of those who climbed did jump. We noticed that the presence of the camera as well as the social pressure (from those awaiting their turn beside the pool) pushed some of the participants to jump, which made their behavior even more interesting. In our films, which we often call studies, we want to portray human behavior, rather than tell our own stories about it. We hope the result is a series of meaningful references, in the form of moving images. Ten Meter Tower may take place in Sweden, but we think it elucidates something essentially human, that transcends culture and origins. Overcoming our most cautious impulses with bravery unites all humankind. Its something that has shaped us through the ages. Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to reveal her running mate on Tuesday morning, a decision that will end a 16-day sprint to vet, interview and choose a person who could potentially become the future leader of the Democratic Party. Ms. Harriss announcement, coupled with a major rally she plans to hold with her running mate on Tuesday evening in Philadelphia, will also cap a frenzied period that had, in recent days, exposed some of the partys internal fissures on matters ranging from labor rights to Israels military campaign in Gaza. With only days to consider a range of contenders, Ms. Harris and her team were inundated with unsolicited advice much of it public about whom she should pick. In the final hours, her allies, fellow Democrats, progressive activists and even some of the potential nominees themselves tried to find ways to sway her decision. At the center of the maelstrom is Ms. Harris, who has fielded input from a small group of formal and informal advisers, including former President Barack Obama, whom she has consulted on policy, personnel decisions and her vice-presidential pick during her whirlwind ascent to the Democratic presidential nomination, according to a person familiar with their conversations. A fast-moving brush fire burned homes and forced evacuations in the inland California city of San Bernardino on Monday afternoon. Shocking views of the fire tearing across a residential hillside stoked fears that an already dangerous fire season could threaten the more populated parts of the state. The fire in the Southern California city, about 60 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, has grown to 100 acres and burned multiple buildings, said Eric Sherwin, a spokesman for the San Bernardino County Fire Department. Residents of dozens of homes in the Shandin Hills neighborhood are under evacuation orders, and the county has set up an evacuation center at a nearby elementary school. Multiple suburban houses with tile roofs could be seen on live TV engulfed in flames on Monday afternoon. It was 50 years ago this week that Philippe Petit defied gravity, and the police, by walking a high wire between the twin towers of the World Trade Center, braving the winds some 1,350 feet above the streets of Manhattan. Petit, who will turn 75 next week, still has enviable balance, as was clear the other day when he ascended a simple metal ladder to reach what looked like a short divers platform 20 feet off the ground. A wire stretched out before him. Taking hold of a balancing pole, he stepped into the air, striding gracefully as if he were on solid ground pausing only occasionally to assert his balance against the wire rolling underfoot. People think in old age you cannot do anything anymore, he said in an interview. I think its the opposite. I think Im more majestic, more in control, more beautiful to look at today at 74 than I was at 18. What now for Google? The federal court ruling that Google had abused its monopoly in online search threatens to disrupt one of the most valuable businesses in modern history, and Big Tech more broadly. Expect Google to fight back, which could drag this out for some time. Still, the decision will likely carry a lot of consequences for the internet industry. What happened: Judge Amit Mehta of U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia sided with the Justice Department and several states that had accused Google of illegally cementing its search dominance. In large part that was by paying billions each year to companies including Apple and Samsung to make Google the default search engine on their devices. (Apple alone received $20 billion in 2022.) Those agreements hurt competition, Mehta found, allowing Google to trample competitors. That dominance 94.9 percent of the general search market then allowed the company to inflate the prices for some search ads, giving it more money to pay Apple and others, he wrote. The Biden administration said on Tuesday that it would award up to $450 million in grants to a South Korean chipmaker, SK Hynix, to help build its new chip facility in Indiana, in what officials described as a milestone in rebuilding the U.S. semiconductor manufacturing industry. With the announcement, the United States now has commitments from all five of the worlds leading-edge semiconductor manufacturers to construct chip plants in the United States with financial assistance from the administration, Commerce Secretary Gina M. Raimondo said in a call with reporters on Monday. The Biden administration previously announced that it had reached agreements with Intel, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Samsung and Micron to help fund investments in the United States. These are the only companies in the world capable of producing leading-edge chips at scale, she said. SK Hynix announced in April that it had committed to investing $3.87 billion in a facility in West Lafayette, Ind. Ms. Raimondo called that investment a huge deal because it meant that the United States would have the most secure and diverse supply chain in the world for the advanced semiconductors that power artificial intelligence. SK Hynix makes advanced memory chips that are an essential component for creating A.I. In mid-July, a cybersecurity company, CrowdStrike, issued a flawed software update to customers who run Microsoft Windows, effectively shutting down various computer systems of lots of businesses, including several airlines. Most carriers bounced back relatively quickly, but Delta struggled for days, ultimately canceling about 5,000 flights over four days, or more than a third of its schedule. Deltas chief executive, Ed Bastian, has said the episode had cost the airline about $500 million. Last week, he told employees that he had hired Mr. Boiess firm, Boies Schiller Flexner, to pursue legal claims against Microsoft and CrowdStrike, which also rebutted Deltas claims this week. In its letter on Tuesday, Mr. Cheffo said that Microsoft empathizes with Delta and its customers and that while the technology company was not at fault, it had offered to help the airline for no charge after the outage. Microsoft repeated that offer over five days, from July 19 to July 23, but was turned down each time, it said. The technology companys chief executive, Satya Nadella, also reached out to Mr. Bastian on July 24 but never received a response, according to the letter. (In its letter, CrowdStrike said Delta had rejected or ignored its offers for help, too.) Microsoft said Delta had probably turned it down because the airline was struggling the most with a computer system that it uses to track and schedule the airlines crew and that was being serviced by other companies, including IBM. It also accused Delta of using outdated information technology. The pilot of the small private plane that made an emergency landing Monday morning at Jamestown Airport was prominent Orchard Park businessman and developer Gerald Buchheit, his company confirmed Tuesday. Buchheit, who survived and walked away from the aircraft along with his co-pilot, was flown to Erie County Medical Center for treatment at his own request, while his passenger who has not been identified was transported to UPMC Chautauqua, about 6 miles away. ECMC spokesman Peter Cutler said Buchheit was in stable condition, and an employee for Buchheits highway-paving company, Accent Stripe, said other company officials were with him. Buchheit built the Quaker Crossing shopping plaza, owned the Statler Hotel for 15 years and tried to develop an Outer Harbor property into a 23-story residential tower on Lake Erie. His aircraft, a Cessna Citation X, was based out of Dunkirk, and had been scheduled to fly to Florida with a planned stop in Jamestown but lost communications and had to make an emergency landing, according to Shannon Fischer, manager of airports for Chautauqua County. The plane landed in the grass about 200 feet short of Runway 25, then stayed straight on the runway before veering at the end. Pilot, co-pilot survive plane crash at Jamestown Airport, Chautauqua County officials confirm Justin Gould, the county's media information officer, said the plane crashed on Turner Road in the Town of Ellicott at 10:12 a.m. Fischer credited the duos survival to the pilots skillful landing. When I first pulled in here I didnt think theyd make it, Fischer said. She added that the co-pilot, a tenant at the Dunkirk airport, is well-known in the Buffalo area. Guttman estimated that 10 emergency departments responded to the crash. A collaborative investigation with the National Transportation Safety Board is underway, officials added. Buchheit was the first pilot to buy the Cessna Citation X+ mid-size business jet when it was released in 2014, according to an article on corporatejetinvestor.com. Chautauqua County officials had identified the plane in Mondays crash as the same make and model, and alluded to the one of the two men on board as someone who would be well-known in the Buffalo area. Buchheit, who served in the National Guard helping to clear snow from Fuhrmann Boulevard after the Blizzard of 1977, is the owner of Accent Stripe, a national highway marking and specialty paving company, but has also been engaged in real estate development. He developed and owns the 120-acre Quaker Crossing complex in Orchard Park, and owned the Statler prior to selling it to British businessman Bashar Issa in 2006. Buchheit also owns the 20-acre Freezer Queen property along Fuhrmann Boulevard, which he purchased in 2008 and is the only privately-owned parcel on the Outer Harbor. In 2016, he unveiled plans for a 23-story, glass-walled residential tower called Queen City Landing, and eventually received city approval for what would have been a $180 million project. But it faced vocal environmental and community opposition, and was stalled for more than two years by litigation against it. He came back with a revised plan for a 20-story tower, with a mixture of apartments, restaurants and storefronts, and later added plans for further development on the rest of the site including two six-story buildings with more apartments and a cluster of three-story townhouses at the western edge, as well as 2.5 acres of green space and 4,100 feet of public trails. Last year, as Mayor Eric Adams sought to relieve the pressure on New York Citys shelter system, he began to send hundreds of asylum seekers to hotels, often in counties north of the city. But in many cases, the city spent taxpayer funds for rooms that were never used. In Rockland County, the citys primary migrant-services contractor, DocGo, billed the city $833,340 for 4,902 vacant rooms over 61 nights, according to an audit the city comptroller released on Tuesday. The audit by the comptroller, Brad Lander, concluded that the Department of Housing Preservation and Development had failed to exercise sufficient oversight of a no-bid $432 million contract given to DocGo, a firm that has come under scrutiny for its handling of migrant services. The rooms in Rockland County were booked at the Armoni Inn and Suites in Orangeburg, N.Y. At the time, a temporary restraining order had been issued that prohibited the use of the Armoni for migrants from the city. Yet DocGo held the empty rooms and the city paid for them. New York City officials have found a new way to deploy their stable of drones: flying them above vulnerable neighborhoods to blare safety messages that flash flooding may be coming. Five teams of drone operators began to fan out across the city around 1 p.m. Tuesday to send the aircraft equipped with loudspeakers skyward to warn of the potential dangers to New Yorkers from the coming rain. City officials say heavy rainfall is expected to start Tuesday afternoon and last until Wednesday, and that basement dwellers should take particular note. Flash flooding has become a major issue for the city in the age of climate change: In 2021, rains tied to Hurricane Ida drowned 11 New Yorkers in their basements. Zachary Iscol, the commissioner of the citys emergency management department, said in a brief interview Tuesday afternoon that it was Mayor Eric Adamss idea to use drones for these purposes. Landlords almost never go to jail over bad conditions in their buildings. But one New York City property owner has been ordered to go back for the second time this year. A New York City housing court judge signed an arrest warrant on Tuesday for the landlord, Daniel Ohebshalom, which calls for him to be detained at Rikers Island for 60 days. The citys housing department said Mr. Ohebshalom had flouted court orders by failing to address violations for leaks, cockroach infestations and mold in two Washington Heights buildings for more than a year. The judge, Jack Stoller, said Mr. Ohebshalom could be released early if he fixes the problems before his jail term is over. The case is an extraordinary example of how hard it can be to hold even the worst landlords accountable. You called the case so far a split decision. Why? Each side can claim some wins. Letitia James, the New York attorney general, had originally sought to dissolve the N.R.A., an idea that was rejected by Justice Joel Cohen of State Supreme Court in Manhattan long before the trial even started. She had also sought to impose an outside monitor to oversee the groups finances and governance for three years. Justice Cohen also rejected that idea last week. But James accomplished a great deal. Even some of the N.R.A.s former insiders thought she was surfacing legitimate corruption problems that needed to be addressed, and she succeeded in winning the ouster of Wayne LaPierre, who had led the N.R.A. for more than three decades. He resigned on the eve of the trial and was then found liable by the trial jury for misspending $5.4 million. The former chief financial officer, Wilson Phillips, was found liable for $2 million. A Queens man who billed himself as a scholar and a democracy activist was convicted in Brooklyn federal court on Tuesday of acting as a spy for the Chinese Communist Party. The man, Shujun Wang, 75, was found guilty on charges of acting as an agent of a foreign government without notifying the attorney general. The jury also convicted him of providing the contact information of prominent dissidents to Chinas intelligence agency and of lying to federal law enforcement officers about the scheme. Mr. Wang faces up to 25 years in prison, prosecutors have said. He is to be sentenced on Jan. 9. The indictment could have been the plot of a spy novel, but the evidence is shockingly real, Breon Peace, the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, said in a statement Tuesday. Wang was willing to betray those who respected and trusted him. The verdict capped a brisk weeklong trial during which prosecutors accused Mr. Wang of secretly collecting information about Chinese nationals living in the New York area and feeding it to the Chinese government. Prosecutors said that Mr. Wang had been directed by government officials to target people from groups they considered subversive, including those pushing for democracy in Hong Kong, those who supported independence for Taiwan and Tibet and Uyghur activists, among others. On an unseasonably warm day in late April in Louisville, Ky., the drone of low-flying helicopters overtook the usual sounds of spring as the wealthy descended on the Kentucky Derby. Less than five miles away in a historically Black neighborhood, Donna Goldsmith, 62, addressed a room of 15 people gathered around a scarred folding table. They are part of Louisvilles burgeoning tenants union, which mobilizes the residents of low-income apartment complexes, rural trailer parks and gentrifying neighborhoods to challenge the corporate landlords that they say have devastated affordable housing. This meeting, like most of their gatherings, started with testimonials. Goldsmith initially organized her senior-living community to demand better maintenance, and now attends rallies across the city to encourage others to see themselves as leaders. Her most successful organizing strategy: I cuss out landlords. She had one message for this room of people mostly young enough to be her grandchildren. I want to win before I die so that you all know that you can win, she declared. Midsize cities like Louisville contain many of the fault lines that created Americas housing crisis: gentrification, federal development schemes and redlining. But Louisville also has a distinctly Southern history of racist segregation, predatory investors and political divides that has made it difficult to produce the high-quality affordable housing its residents desperately need. If this countrys affordable housing crisis can be solved here, it could establish a template for helping the nations poor and marginalized find stability. Josh Poe, 47, and Jessica Bellamy, 36, founded the Louisville Tenants Union in 2022 because they believe that organizing is the answer to the nations housing woes. Tenant organizing, Poe told me with pastoral conviction, will be to the 21st century what labor organizing was to the 20th century. In 2000, a ruling in a U.S. antitrust case against Microsoft helped set the rules of competition for the digital giant of its day. At the time, a federal judge said Microsoft had abused the monopoly power of its Windows operating system and ordered that the company be split up. A breakup was reversed on appeal, but key legal findings were upheld. And Microsoft was prohibited from forcing restrictive contracts on its industry partners and ordered to open some of its technology to outsiders preventing the company from single-handedly controlling the internet. More than two decades later, a ruling in a Google antitrust case similarly promises to shape new rules for the tech industry. Judge Amit P. Mehta of U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia found on Monday that Google had violated antitrust laws by stifling rivals in internet search to protect its monopoly. Googles loss could have major ripple effects for competition today. U.S. regulators have also accused Apple, Amazon and Meta of violating antitrust laws by advantaging their own products on the platforms they run and acquiring smaller rivals. The Google ruling, and potential remedies to be decided by Judge Mehta, are likely to weigh heavily on those cases, including a second lawsuit against Google over ad technology, which is scheduled to go to trial next month. Nvidia rocketed to the top of the tech industry by providing the computer chips essential to building artificial intelligence. By the end of last year, it had more than a 90 percent share of those chips sold around the world. That success has quickly brought government scrutiny. Authorities with the European Union, Britain and China asked the company for information about its sales of those important chips, allocation of supplies and investments in other companies, according to Nvidias financial filings. The Justice Department has also started investigating Nvidias sales practices and will review one of the companys most recent acquisitions, said three people familiar with the inquiries, who asked for anonymity because it is early in the process. Nvidia wasnt ready for the attention, and is now racing to build the staffs and offices needed to respond. Just last year, Nvidia started searching for an office in Washington and hired four public policy employees. This year, it added its first in-house competition attorney to work alongside a legal team that has been addressing antitrust questions over the past decade. And it has begun developing a strategy to respond to government interest. X filed a lawsuit on Tuesday against the Global Alliance for Responsible Media, a coalition of major advertisers, claiming that it had violated antitrust laws by coordinating with brands to dissuade them from spending money on the social media platform. The suit, filed in federal court in Texas, claims that the coalition, known as GARM, conspired with leading brands, including CVS, Unilever, Mars and the Danish energy company Orsted, to collectively withhold billions of dollars in advertising revenue that were owed to X, then known as Twitter, in the wake of Elon Musks takeover of the social media company in 2022. The illegal behavior of these organizations and their executives cost X billions of dollars, wrote Linda Yaccarino, Xs chief executive, in an open letter to advertisers. People are hurt when the marketplace of ideas is undermined and some viewpoints are not funded over others as part of an illegal boycott. With the lawsuit, X effectively declared war on advertisers, which provide the bulk of the social media companys revenue. Since Mr. Musk acquired the company and promised to usher in a new era of unfettered free speech, many advertisers have limited their spending on X, concerned by reports of rising hate speech and misinformation there. By pursuing legal action against GARM, Mr. Musk continued to break with the leaders of other social media companies, who have forged close relationships with advertisers and been responsive to their concerns about offensive online content. A few days ago, Donald J. Trump said vice-presidential nominees have virtually no impact electorally. By selecting Minnesotas governor, Tim Walz, as her running mate on Tuesday, Kamala Harris put Mr. Trump one step closer to being proved right. A few days ago, it wasnt so obvious Mr. Trumps claim was on safe footing. While its true that most vice-presidential nominees dont have a major impact, they often help the ticket in the vice-presidential nominees home state. The effect might be only a percentage point or two, but Vice President Harris was considering an unusually strong slate of options from key states and the polls are close enough for one or two points to be decisive. In the end, she did not choose someone like Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania or Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona. Instead, she selected someone from Minnesota, which is not a top-tier battleground. Michael R. Bloomberg, the billionaire and former New York City mayor, is giving $600 million to the countrys four historically Black medical schools, which account for a significant percentage of all medical degrees awarded to Black doctors. Through his charitable organization, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Mr. Bloomberg is giving $175 million each to Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta and Howard University College of Medicine in Washington. These donations are believed to be the largest ever to any single H.B.C.U., surpassing the $100 million gift that Spelman College in Atlanta announced in January. The foundation is also giving $75 million to Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles and an additional $5 million to help start a new medical school at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans. Dr. James E.K. Hildreth, president and chief executive of Meharry Medical College, said in an interview that the gift was just a major, major investment that will have generational impact. Early last year, archaeologists discovered five round objects while working near trails at the Minute Man National Historical Park in Concord, Mass. The spheres ranged from as small as a pea to about the size of a marble and were scattered in the dirt near the site of a Revolutionary War battlefield. They were musket balls used at the outset of the American Revolution, the National Park Service said in July. The ammunition had gone undetected for centuries near the North Bridge, where colonist militias fired at British soldiers on April 19, 1775, in a skirmish immortalized in the poem Concord Hymn by Ralph Waldo Emerson as the shot heard round the world. At the North Bridge site itself, this is the first time the National Park Service discovered something related to the fighting that day, said Jarrad Fuoss, a park ranger and weapon historian. Artifacts of history can be discovered through the careful work of archaeological research, but will sometimes surface by accident. Hobbyists, treasure seekers, collectors or scientists scan the land where critical events unfolded, trying to outsmart years of change wrought by weather and development. If Kamala Harris is elected president alongside Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, who has been chosen as her running mate, the states lieutenant governor would get a history-making promotion. Under the succession plan laid out in Minnesotas Constitution, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, 44, would become the states first female governor, as well as the first Native American person to assume the role. Ms. Flanagan, who was first elected to her current post in 2018, served on the Minneapolis school board from 2005 to 2009 and spent years training liberals who wanted to run for office. Among the rookie politicians she mentored was Mr. Walz, a former social studies teacher from the small city of Mankato, who got his start in politics in 2006 after winning a congressional seat in a largely rural, conservative district. Ms. Flanagan, a member of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe, has championed improving relations between state government and leaders of the 11 tribal nations in the state. Senator JD Vance of Ohio, the Republican vice-presidential nominee, on Tuesday criticized Tim Walz, hours after the Minnesota governor was tapped to be Vice President Kamala Harriss running mate, as too extreme for office, the latest in a series of attacks from former President Donald J. Trumps campaign. After a rally in Philadelphia, just hours before Ms. Harris and Mr. Walz will hold their first joint rally in the same city, Mr. Vance focused on Mr. Walzs record shepherding his state through the 2020 George Floyd protests as well as his positions on economic policy. Despite the fact that the two represent Midwestern states, Mr. Vance tried to distance himself from Mr. Walz, whom he described as a San Francisco-style liberal, a label the Trump campaign has sought to use against Ms. Harris. While Mr. Vance did not mention Mr. Walz in his speech, he took questions from reporters after the rally, calling Mr. Walz's career a joke and saying that he would debate the governor, but only after his nomination was official. During the session with reporters, Mr. Vance bemoaned what he called a little switcheroo from President Biden to Ms. Harris and cast doubt on whether Mr. Walz would remain Ms. Harriss running mate. A former solicitor general of the United States whose wife was killed on Sept. 11, 2001, said he was relieved to hear that a plea agreement had been reached in the case, and puzzled when the secretary of defense upended the deal. Last week, a senior Pentagon official who oversees the military commissions signed a plea agreement with the man accused of planning the attacks and two other defendants. Then, two days later, Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III rescinded it, stirring uncertainty in the case at Guantanamo Bay. Lawyers for Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, who is accused of orchestrating the Sept. 11 plot, accused Mr. Austin in a filing on Tuesday of unlawfully breaching the plea agreement. Former President Donald J. Trump said on Tuesday that he would be interviewed next week by Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of the social media platform X and a former skeptic who has come to embrace his candidacy. In a post on his own social media site, Truth Social, Mr. Trump said that their conversation would happen on Monday night and that details would follow. Representatives for the Trump campaign and for X did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Tuesday. Last month, about a half-hour after Mr. Trump was wounded in an assassination attempt in Butler, Pa., Mr. Musk, who is also the chief executive of the electric vehicle company Tesla, endorsed his candidacy, breaking from a norm of self-declared neutrality by the leaders of social media platforms. Ukraine has made a lot of progress on battling corruption, but theres work to do before its economy can achieve its full potential, Penny Pritzker, the U.S. special representative for Ukraines economic recovery, said on Monday. Ms. Pritzker, a former U.S. commerce secretary and major Democratic Party donor, spoke in an interview as she prepared to depart the Biden administration when her one-year appointment expires. Her appointment spotlighted the Biden administrations belief that to survive Russias aggression over the long term, Ukraine must show economic as well as military strength and that even with Russian forces still deep inside its borders, planning should begin for the countrys financial future. Those goals are a work in progress. But Ms. Pritzker returned last week from her sixth trip to Ukraine, where she has family roots, preaching optimism about the countrys potential. He has joked that finding someone to date was kind of a problem. Mr. Walz graduated from Chadron State College in 1989 with a degree in social science education before teaching for a year in China. When he returned, he taught high school in Nebraska, where he met his wife, Gwen, who was teaching at the same school. In 1993, Mr. Walz was named Outstanding Young Nebraskan by the Nebraska Junior Chamber of Commerce for his service in the education, military and small-business communities, according to his campaign. The next year, he got married and moved back to his wifes southern Minnesota home. Mr. Walz has a fondness for his Nebraska upbringing. Last year, he posted a photo of an old barn and a tractor on social media, saying he had visited the family farm in Butte, saw some old high school buddies, and stopped by Pancake Days. All in all, a top-notch weekend. While Ms. Harriss other top potential running mates came from battleground states that might have helped her rack up electoral votes, Mr. Walzs ties to Nebraska could also play a role if voters there support him. Though the state is largely Republican, it is one of just two states that split their Electoral College votes. (The other is Maine.) Last election, one of Nebraskas five votes went to President Biden. Jane Kleeb, the chairwoman of the Nebraska Democratic Party, commended Mr. Walzs real and deep experiences in rural towns, veteran communities and of course with teachers. A little more than a year into Tim Walzs first term as governor, he faced his biggest test. His state, already in the throes of the Covid-19 pandemic, was suddenly in the international spotlight after a Minneapolis police officer was filmed murdering George Floyd in May 2020. Looting, arson and violence followed, quickly overwhelming the local authorities, and some faulted Mr. Walz for not doing more and not moving faster to bring the situation under control with Minnesota National Guard troops and other state officials. Two days after Mr. Floyds death, with protests in Minneapolis turning increasingly violent, the citys mayor, Jacob Frey, asked Mr. Walz to deploy the National Guard. Hours later, the citys police chief submitted a written request for 600 troops. But it was not until the next afternoon that Mr. Walz signed an executive order allowing the Guard to assist cities. It was obvious to me that he froze under pressure, under a calamity, as peoples properties were being burned down, said State Senator Warren Limmer, a Republican who helped lead a committee that investigated the response to the unrest. He suggested that Mr. Walzs personal sympathies toward protesters might have delayed a muscular response. The president of Bangladesh on Tuesday appointed Muhammad Yunus, a pioneer in microfinance and a Nobel laureate, to oversee an interim government, accommodating demands by protesters and offering a reprieve for a country scarred by violence. The plans for a new government were announced a day after Bangladeshs authoritarian leader, Sheikh Hasina, resigned and fled the country amid a popular uprising. Word of the Yunus appointment came from the main coordinator of the protests, Nahid Islam, who was among a group of people who met with President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday. Military officials also attended the meeting, though Mr. Yunus did not. With the Bangladeshi Parliament dissolved, Mr. Yunus, 84, is expected to lead a temporary government for an uncertain period of time. The protesters were closing in. A convoy of about a dozen vehicles carrying Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh out of her sprawling official residence tried at first to escape through the usual gate, then spun around and took a different route and still found itself facing a crowd of demonstrators. Thousands had defied a curfew, pushed through police barricades and poured into the heart of the capital, Dhaka, enraged by the killing of nearly 100 protesters the day before. Ms. Hasinas security detail appealed for reinforcements. Armored vehicles rushed to clear a path, and her car sped to a helipad. A helicopter whisked her to an airfield, where she boarded the military plane that would take her out of the country. In her chaotic final hours on Monday as Bangladeshs leader recounted in conversations with nearly a dozen diplomatic, security and government officials, some of whom were caught in its panic Ms. Hasina clung to the idea that she could hold out against the throng converging on her. According to three people with knowledge of the discussions, she resisted the advice of her security chiefs, who told her that their crackdown on antigovernment protests had failed after claiming some 300 lives over a few weeks, that trying to suppress them would require much more bloodshed. One of Chinas most influential, and garrulous, nationalist voices on social media has suddenly gone quiet, and the countrys internet is wondering why. Hu Xijin, the former editor of the Global Times, a pugnacious Communist Party-run newspaper, writes and posts videos regularly on Sina Weibo, a social media platform, where he has nearly 25 million followers. But in late July, Mr. Hu stopped updating his page, baffling readers and gratifying some of his critics. Mr. Hu has not explained his silence; nor have Chinas internet authorities. But many in China think he has been censored, pointing to signs that party officials may have been irked paradoxically because Mr. Hu lauded them in the wrong way. In China, even misplaced praise for the party may be enough to draw the ire of censors. A possible source of Mr. Hus trouble appears to be a Weibo post he wrote in July that extolled as historic the outcome of a party leaders meeting on economic strategy. In Mr. Hus view, the party used phrasing in its plan for the economy that suggested that China would reduce the status of state-owned companies, giving private companies a big boost. The nearby mines shut down one by one. The cement business, once the citys pride, waned. More than a dozen schools closed, as did one of the two movie theaters. The second would eventually follow. By the time Kim Chang-gyu returned to Jecheon, South Korea, to become the mayor after four decades away, his hometown felt resigned to its decline. The towns center was dotted with vacant storefronts, and local businessmen fretted about how tough it was to find workers. Like many other small South Korean cities, Jecheon, cradled at the foot of two mountain ranges, is being eroded by rapid aging and rock-bottom birthrates. Other shrinking cities have tried offering money to entice newlyweds or free housing to parents of school-age children. Mr. Kim, a retired diplomat, looked farther afield: Central Asia and the estimated half a million people of Korean descent who have been living there for nearly a century. If he could persuade enough of them to move to Jecheon population 130,000 and shrinking he thought they might lay the groundwork for its future. A German court ruled on Tuesday that a protester who shouted From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free at a rally in Berlin in October had condoned criminal acts the Hamas-led terrorist attacks on Israel and gave her a fine of 600 euros, about $650. The slogan, which has radically different interpretations, was later banned in Germany, viewed as basically constituting a call for the elimination of Israel. The court case had been seen as a test of that law. The judge in the case, Birgit Balzer, said that the phrase, which the protester chanted at a rally less than a week after the Oct. 7 attacks, could only be understood as a denial of Israels right to exist and an endorsement of the attack, according to the district court in Tiergarten, an area of Berlin, where the case was tried. The Israel-Hamas conflict has underlined the delicate balance in Germany between freedom of expression and the countrys relationship with Israel. One of the foundations of Germany since the Holocaust is support for Israel, a principle known as a Staatsrason, or state reason. Since Oct. 7, activism in Germany has been roiled by that tension, with cancellations, bans and fierce debates about what can and cant be said about Israel and the war. Among Russians who oppose Vladimir V. Putin and his brutal Ukraine invasion, hopes are high that the Russian dissidents freed last week as part of a prisoner exchange with the West will breathe new life into a fragmented opposition force. But if it promises an injection of energy into a movement struggling to effect change inside of Russia, it reignites a question older than the Russian Revolution where is the more effective place to advocate for democratic change: from a prison cell inside of Russia, or in exile? Either way, the challenge is daunting. For years, decades even, Russias opposition has been divided and beset with infighting; the Ukraine invasion has only exacerbated the grievances. And that was before the most influential opposition leader, Aleksei A. Navalny, died in an Arctic penal colony in February. The most prominent dissidents who remained Ilya Yashin and Vladimir Kara-Murza, both freed last week were serving long sentences, but they gained credibility from their willingness to forego the comforts of exile to speak their minds as inmates in Russias harsh prison system. Hamas has chosen Yahya Sinwar, one of the architects of the deadly Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, to lead the militant groups political wing, it announced on Tuesday, consolidating his power over Hamas as it continues to fight Israel in the Gaza Strip. Mr. Sinwar, the leader of Hamas in Gaza since 2017, has long been considered a planner of Hamass military strategy there. Now, he will also replace Ismail Haniyeh, the groups previous political leader and a key liaison in the indirect cease-fire talks with Israel. Mr. Haniyeh, who had been living in Qatar, was killed in an explosion in Iran last week that has been widely attributed to Israel. A hard-line figure born in Gaza, Mr. Sinwar, 61, is a prime target for Israeli forces and is widely believed to be hiding out in tunnels underneath the enclave to avoid Israeli attack. Despite that, he is thought to have been dictating the groups position in the cease-fire talks. His selection to lead the groups political office comes as the Middle East braces for Iran and its proxies, including Hamas, Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen, to strike Israel in response to the killings last week of Mr. Haniyeh and a senior Hezbollah commander, Fuad Shukr. The Iranian authorities executed a 34-year-old man on Tuesday who was arrested during nationwide protests that shook the country in 2022 and who had been sentenced to death in a trial that rights groups condemned as unfair. The Mizan news agency, which is overseen by Irans judiciary, reported that the man, Reza Rasaei, was executed on Tuesday morning at a prison in the city of Kermanshah. The execution of Mr. Rasaei comes just weeks after Iran elected a reformist president in a vote that was largely seen as a rejection of hard-line conservative political factions that governed the country during the 2022 upheaval. Rights groups were quick to note that the execution of Mr. Rasaei suggested that real change was not necessarily to be expected. Amnesty International, the human rights organization, said Mr. Rasaeis execution was carried out in secrecy after a sham trial and without prior notice to his family or lawyers. The town in south Lebanon appeared deserted, its roads empty and its market shuttered, after months of fighting between Hezbollah and Israel across the nearby border made many residents flee. But in a central square this summer, Hezbollah had erected huge banners for the triple funeral of a man the militant group claimed as its own and his two sisters, all killed when Israel bombed their home in this southern town of Bint Jbeil. As the coffins arrived, martial music blared and a few hundred of the remaining residents came to pay their respects. Watching the procession, Asmaa Alawiyeh, an accountant, said life was hard after months of clashes. Her two children were out of school. Her husband, a plumber, could not find work. And no one knew when life would return to normal. Yahya Sinwar, the newly named political chief of Hamas and one of the architects of the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel, has long been viewed as one of the militant groups most influential leaders, wielding outsize power while remaining mostly hidden in tunnels beneath Gaza. His selection on Tuesday as Hamass top diplomatic leader replacing Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Iran last week consolidates his power. Heres what we know about Mr. Sinwar and his past. Formative years Mr. Sinwar was born in Gaza in 1962 to a family that had fled its home, along with several hundred thousand other Palestinian Arabs who fled or were forced to flee during the wars surrounding the creation of the state of Israel. This displacement deeply influenced his decision to join Hamas in the 1980s. Mr. Sinwar had been recruited by Hamass founder, Sheik Ahmed Yassin, who made him chief of an internal security unit known as Al Majd. His job was to find and punish those suspected of violating Islamic morality laws or cooperating with the Israeli occupiers, a position that eventually landed him in trouble with Israeli authorities. A crucible Mr. Sinwar was imprisoned in 1988 for murdering four Palestinians whom he accused of apostasy or collaborating with Israel, according to Israeli court records. He spent more than two decades in prison in Israel, where he learned Hebrew and developed an understanding of Israeli culture and society. While incarcerated, Mr. Sinwar took advantage of an online university program and devoured Israeli news. He translated into Arabic tens of thousands of pages of contraband Hebrew-language autobiographies written by the former heads of Israels domestic security agency, Shin Bet. Yuval Bitton, an Israeli dentist who treated Mr. Sinwar when he was in custody and who developed a relationship with him, said Mr. Sinwar had surreptitiously shared the translated pages so that inmates could study the agencys counterterrorism tactics. Mr. Sinwar liked to call himself a specialist in the Jewish peoples history, Dr. Bitton said. The crisis in the Middle East entered a new phase in recent weeks when a Hamas leader was assassinated in the Iranian capital, Tehran. The Iranian government said it would retaliate against Israel. This has provoked international concern that the war in Gaza and a more limited conflict on Israels border with Lebanon could widen into a regional war. Heres a look at the current regional dynamics and how they could evolve: How did we get here? Iran and Israel had fought a clandestine war for decades, but it escalated in April when Israel struck an embassy compound in the Syrian capital, killing three top Iranian commanders. Iran retaliated two weeks later, firing around 300 missiles and drones at Israel, the first time Tehran has attacked the country directly. Israel, the United States and other allies shot almost all of them down. Then, in late July, Israeli jets killed a top commander of the Iranian-backed group Hezbollah in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, in retaliation for a rocket attack that killed at least 12 people. One day later, Hamass political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, was killed in an explosion in Tehran. Both the Iranian government and Hezbollah vowed to retaliate. What form could an Iranian attack take? Iran could repeat, and potentially expand, the missile and drone attack it launched on April 13. Israels air defenses proved effective then, but military experts say they could be overwhelmed by a larger number of projectiles and by drones fired at low altitudes and on unpredictable trajectories. In the United States the atomic bombs signaled military victory. In Japan the remaining survivors have been left to contemplate whether the world has learned anything from their trauma or whether the world powers are on a collision course to repeat it. In the United States the atomic bombs signaled military victory. In Japan the remaining survivors have been left to contemplate whether the world has learned anything from their trauma or whether the world powers are on a collision course to repeat it. Opinion The Last Survivors Speak. Its Time to Listen. The Last Survivors Speak. Its Time to Listen. The waiting room of the Red Cross hospital in downtown Hiroshima is always crowded. Nearly every available seat is occupied, often by elderly people waiting for their names to be called. Many of these men and women dont have typical medical histories, however. They are the surviving victims of the American atomic bomb attack 79 years ago. Not many Americans have Aug. 6 circled on their calendars, but its a day that the Japanese cant forget. Even now, the hospital continues to treat, on average, 180 survivors known as hibakusha of the blasts each day. When the United States dropped an atomic weapon on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, the entire citizenries of both countries were working feverishly to win World War II. For most Americans, the bomb represented a path to victory after nearly four relentless years of battle and a technological advance that would cement the nation as a geopolitical superpower for generations. Our textbooks talk about the worlds first use of a nuclear weapon. Many today in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, where the United States detonated a bomb just three days later, talk about how those horrible events must be the last uses of nuclear weapons. A view across the Motoyasu River of the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima. The bombs killed an estimated 200,000 men, women and children and maimed countless more. In Hiroshima 50,000 of the citys 76,000 buildings were completely destroyed. In Nagasaki nearly all homes within a mile and a half of the blast were wiped out. In both cities the bombs wrecked hospitals and schools. Urban infrastructure collapsed. Americans didnt dwell on the devastation. Here the bombings were hailed as necessary and heroic acts that brought the war to an end. In the days immediately after the nuclear blasts, the polling firm Gallup found that 85 percent of Americans approved of the decision to drop atomic bombs over Japan. Even decades later the narrative of military might and American sacrifice continued to reign. This article is part of the Opinion series At the Brink, about the threat of nuclear weapons in an unstable world. Read the opening piece here. This article is part of the Opinion series At the Brink, about the threat of nuclear weapons in an unstable world. Read the opening piece here. For the 50th anniversary of the wars end, the Smithsonian buckled to pressure from veterans and their families and scaled back a planned exhibition that would have offered a more nuanced portrait of the conflict, including questioning the morality of the bomb. The Senate even passed a resolution calling the Smithsonian exhibition revisionist and offensive and declared it must avoid impugning the memory of those who gave their lives for freedom. In Japan, however, the hibakusha and their offspring have formed the backbone of atomic memory. Many see their lifes work as informing the wider world about what its like to carry the trauma, stigma and survivors guilt caused by the bombs, so that nuclear weapons may never be used again. Their urgency to do so has only increased in recent years. With an average age of 85, the hibakusha are dying by the hundreds each month just as the world is entering a new nuclear age. Countries like the United States, China and Russia are spending trillions of dollars to modernize their stockpiles. Many of the safeguards that once lowered nuclear risk are unraveling, and the diplomacy needed to restore them is not happening. The threat of another blast cant be relegated to history. And so, as another anniversary of Aug. 6 passes, it is necessary for Americans and the globe, really to listen to the stories of the few human beings who can still speak to the horror nuclear weapons can inflict before this approach is taken again. A Chinese company has come under fire for posting a job ad and asking potential candidates born in the year of the dog not to bother applying because they would automatically be rejected. The unnamed company in Guangzhou, Chinas Guangdong province, recently posted an ad for a job on its administrative staff. It required work experience, and familiarity with office software, and was compensated with a monthly salary of up to 4,000 yuan. However, what really caught peoples attention was a short line asking people not to submit their resumes if they happened to be born in the year of the dog. The post sparked controversy on Chinese social media, with many accusing the company of discrimination, but a source from inside the organization revealed that the boss was born in the year of the dragon and believes that he is not compatible with people born in the year of the dog. Recruiting employees born in the year of the dog will be detrimental to the companys development, so he specially emphasizes that dog people should not submit resumes, the anonymous source explained, adding that no other special restrictions apply. Discrimination is not exactly uncommon in the Chinese job market, but the absurdity of zodiac discrimination sparked outrage among netizens, with many advising those born in the year of the dog to sue the company. I always thought it was difficult to find a job after age 35, but I didnt expect my zodiac sign to be the problem, one person wrote. Whats wrong with me being born in the year of the dog? Its not like I have rabies, someone else commented. Kellyanne Conway Kellyanne Conway, a top aide to President Donald Trump, has agreed to represent a Ukrainian oligarch, who is a strong opponent of Russias invasion of his country. Her KAConsulting is in line for a $50K monthly fee for work on behalf of the UK Office of the Victor Pinchuk Foundation, which is focused on advancing the artistic, scientific, charitable, benevolent and philanthropic purposes in Ukraine. The contract went into effect on July 25, and runs through Nov. 14. It calls for KAConsulting to engage US lawmakers and experts and opinion makers to explain the importance of Ukraine to the rules-based order and the protection of democratic principles. The firm will contribute to raising awareness among US decision makers of Ukrainians fight for freedom and the Russian illegal war of aggression. KAC also will assist in organizing meetings of Ukrainian soldiers and veterans with US political leaders to share their insights. The contract forbids KAConsulting from making any statements to the press, media or general public without prior approval from the client. If re-elected, Trump is expected to reduce US military aid to Ukraine and pressure it to cede seized territory to Russia. His Vice President has argued for terminating all US support for Ukraine. While running for the Ohio Senate seat, JD Vance said: "I gotta be honest with you, I don't really care what happens to Ukraine one way or another." Whether youre a hardcore fan of the million-selling novel, the adaptation of Colleen Hoovers literary phenomenon is one of the years most powerful movies. With plot, cast, trailer, age rating, release date and more, heres our complete guide to the It Ends With Us film. Chances are, if you read It Ends With Us back in 2016, you were going through a box of tissues per chapter. Texas-born author Colleen Hoovers million-selling romance novel was bruised, beautiful, raw and inspiring. Now, just when you thought your tear ducts had finally run dry, Justin Baldonis movie adaptation of It Ends With Us arrives in UK and Irish cinemas on Friday, August 9 and you will weep your own body weight. Its really hard to take a book thats so beloved and also very important for a lot of social reasons and turn it into a film, director Justin Baldoni (who also co-stars as Ryle) told The Hollywood Reporter. Im grateful that people see the love and care and the attention that has gone into it, and that we really honoured the book, I believe. Drawing on childhood memories of the domestic abuse she witnessed in own parents marriage, its no wonder Colleen Hoover described It Ends With Us as the hardest book Ive ever written. It was no picnic to read, either, with millions of readers following every heartbeat of the intoxicating (but ultimately toxic) relationship between aptly named florist Lily Bloom and abusive neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid. READ NEXT: 'Our family are heartbroken': Mum pleas for help for Carlow girl with rare spinal condition When she opens a flower shop in downtown Boston, Lily (Blake Lively) hopes she can start afresh after her fathers recent funeral and the revelation that he abused her mother. She still wonders what happened to her old college friend and one-that-got-away, Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar). But suddenly a smouldering stranger is smelling the roses and Lily finds herself swept off her feet by Ryle. Their early courtship is electrifying, a whirlwind of candlelit restaurants, karaoke bars, cab rides and urgent kisses. But one terrible day, a crack appears in Ryles facade and the darkness floods through. As Lilys voiceover tells us in the It Ends With Us trailer: Fifteen seconds is all it takes to completely change everything You can catch It Ends With US in cinemas on Friday, August 9. TULLAMORE retailer Tom 'Texas' McNamara has presented the Palestinian flags which flew above his store to a local hospital doctor whose parents grew up in the West Bank. Dr Qasem Qasem, a general medical doctor at the Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore received the flags from Mr McNamara just hours before flying out to Jordan to visit his mother and father. Dr Qasem told the Tullamore Tribune how he felt when he saw the flags above the Texas store on William Street in the town. It was uplifting. I told Tom I'd never been to the shop but going and coming from the hospital it was the highlight of my journey, said the 47-year-old father of three. It's pure human solidarity. It's really touching when you see it. So it would uplift me, especially with the bad news coming every day with what's happening. A simple act like that definitely makes me feel that there is some support and there is hope. Dr Qasem was born and grew up in Kuwait following his parents' move there from the West Bank but when he was 18 he came to Dublin to study medicine in UCD. Though he had completed his second level education in Kuwait he could not study there and after attaining the Leaving Certificate in Dublin he qualified as a doctor in Ireland. He later worked in New Zealand and Jordan but was also employed in the emergency department in Tullamore Hospital in 2009 before returning in April of this year. Since the October 7 2023 attack by Hamas which prompted the latest phase of the conflict he has been watching events with horror. I have lots of family in the West Bank and I have friends in Gaza. One of [my friends] was doing the Leaving Cert with me in Ireland and he became a doctor and was working in Gaza but left in early January, he said. I condemn all the violence. October 7th is part of a problem before and after. It's definitely a situation that the violence is, from my perspective, worse from the Israeli side. I would like that, basically, peace and justice would prevail and people can manage to solve their differences and their problems in a civilised manner. He hopes the Irish peace process could be inspirational. We could learn in our region from Ireland and South Africa, trying to find a solution and a way that we can live together. It's a small piece of land but if people can bring themselves to a certain understanding everybody could manage to live there in a good way. He said he is honoured to receive the flags from Mr McNamara and will be delighted to give them to his father and let the Palestinian people know that such gestures of support are being made in Ireland. You feel that humanity has given up on Gaza but you still feel these kinds of small gestures that makes you hold on to the fact that there are humans who will try whatever they can to make their point. In recent years he has been able to travel around the West Bank and Israel with his Irish passport and prior to the current Gaza war he brought his parents to their homeplace. Even though they were born and grew up in the West Bank they could not go until they got American passports, he explained. Though his father (83) now lives in Jordan less than 80km from his native village it would be almost impossible for him to be buried in the same plot as his own father. It's a very unfortunate situation that politics play a lot in simple things for ordinary people, said Dr Qasem. It's a big mess and the ordinary people are suffering... We are looking forward to some kind of end to this for all the people who feel it. A solution must be found. Some level-headed people in the world need to come together and find a solution. After receiving the flags Dr Qasem presented Tom McNamara with a Palestinian scarf and a watermelon badge (pictured below). A depiction of a watermelon slice in the colours red, green, black and white is widely used as a symbol of support for Palestine. Mr McNamara, one of the best known names in Midlands retailing for more than 25 years, is currently closing his drapery store on William Street. He decided to buy the Palestinian flags and fly them above his shopfront as a personal message of support for the plight of the people affected by the war. Any person who considers themselves human and with a heart has to feel nothing but sorrow and empathy with those poor people that are being basically mowed down, killed like flies. They're being exterminated, it's systematic extermination, there's no other word for it, said Mr McNamara. I've a very deep interest in all that's going on out there and I find it harrowing and I think most people do but a lot of people decide to say nothing. He had never met Dr Qasem and was not aware the impact seeing the flags had on the hospital doctor. He came into the shop twice looking for me and I wasn't there. The girls gave him the number and next thing I got this Whatsapp [message] from him. He sent me a long emotional Whatsapp about how it used to lift his heart when he went to work every morning. They subsequently met and during a 90-minute conversation Dr Qasem spoke about some of the horrors happening in his homeland. He said since I'm closing down could he have the flags because he wanted to bring them home to his father. I said of course you can, absolutely. A NEW book, The Erin Story - Jackpot Ltd., Erin Peats Products Ltd., Erin Horticulture Ltd, by John Molloy and Shay Garvey, compiled and edited by Anthony Dargan, a history in words and pictures - will be launched in Doolys Hotel, Birr, on Wednesday, August 7 at 7.30pm. The book recounts the history of a local company which had its genesis in the late 1950s and which developed and grew over the years and is still operating to this day. In its 142 pages the book is packed with history, memories and a huge range of photographs featuring many of the people of worked in the company over the years and will be a wonderful keepsake for anyone who had any connection with the company. It is a story of how the community in Birr, in a time of mass emigration in the 1960s, came together to create employment and keep young people at home. Its a story of how the local community, along with other Irish investors, helped create a start-up business. The book recalls that people in the US wanted to make peat pots and thought it would be best to do it in Ireland because of the availability of raw material and cheaper labour costs among other things. They came to Birr and met with a number of prominent local people and representatives of the UDC at the time and decided to go with the project. A public meeting was held in the Marian Hall in Birr and over 100 local people attended. Most of those people along with many other locals, subscribed for shares in the new company and along with help from the IDA, that helped get the company up and running. Over the years the company changed hands on a number of occasions and as time went on it had to diversify its range of products as well but it kept going and over 60 years later is still going. The idea of writing a book on the history of the company first arose at a 50th anniversary celebration of Erin following a conversation between John Molloy and Shay Garvey. John Molloy first started working in Erin in 1967 and retired after 48 years service. Shay's late father Owen Garvey had played a leading role in the company before his untimely death at an early age in 1974 and Shay himself always had an interest in industrial history, particularly, in writing the history of export led medium sized companies in the first 50 years since the founding of the state When John retired in 2015 he told Shay he had the archives related to the early years of Jackpot Ltd./Erin Peat Products Ltd. in his possession and wondered whether it would be worth writing the history of the company. They began working on the story and got an early draft together. Covid then intervened and delayed progress. After compiling all their information, they decided they needed someone to edit and compile the material and approached Tony Dargan and he agreed to take on the project. The result is the book that will be launched next Wednesday and anyone who had any involvement with Erin over the years will find it takes them on a real trip down memory lane and the book will be a real treasure for them. Past employees, their families and friends are all welcome to go along to the launch in Dooly's Hotel on August 7th. They have all the information on the many people who invested in shares in the comapny when it started off and that will be available to look at for any one interested at the launch as well. The coming season of the Country House Auction series on More4 will feature a well known town in the Midlands. The episode's auction is held by Sheppard's Irish Auction House, in Castle Durrow. Over 1,200 items went under the hammer during the auction, which was filmed in August of 2023. An exciting episode is promised, with incredibly rare items to make appearances. The Castle Durrow episode will feature the auctioning of items such as a solid-silver punch bowl, a rare Egyptian amulet, a John Constable sketch, Percy French paintings, a Carrara marble sculpted chimney piece and a stunning Tibetan meteorite iron Phurba. Buyers ranged from professionals seeking items for state-owned country homes and museums to interior designers, private owners restoring period homes, and collectors. The episode also follows owners of Castle Durrow, Tessa and Robin Leidig, showing the multiple challenges of hosting events in such a historic property. The star of the episode will be the sacred Tibetan meteorite iron Phurba, which sold for 140,000. Pictured: the sacred Tibetan meteorite iron Phurba. The first episode will be broadcast on Tuesday, August 13 at 9pm on More4. Tune in to see potential buyers arrive at the 18th-century castle, the nerve-racking bidding wars (online and over the phone as well as in person) for items, and the challenges of hosting such events on such a famous historic property. As plans go on show for the newest and biggest secondary school in Offaly and Laois, its principal has decried the long 10 year wait so far to get to planning stage. "We have been maybe too patient...," said Colaiste Iosagain principal Justin Brown. The school on Bog Road on the Offaly side of Portarlington is the former girls secondary school, designed to fit 750 pupils but now with over 1,100 students squeezed in on a campus crowded with eight prefabs. It is the only secondary school in Portarlington and a wide area around it in both Laois and Offaly. The exciting plans, submitted to Offaly County Council, display a spacious school for 1,300 pupils, to be built on the playing pitches behind the existing school. The old school will then be knocked to be replaced with new playing pitches and parking at the front of the site. A spacious GP hall in the planned new school. It will take several more years yet before the school will be ready, with the next step being a yes from the planners, a decision due in late September. Mr Brown said it has been a long road already, describing the planning application as an important milestone. The plan grew in that time as Portarlington itself grew to become part of the Dublin commuter belt. "A design team was initially appointed in 2014 when Seamus Bennett was Principal. Between then and now there have been a number of changes. The remit went from an extension to a totally new build. Initially to cater for 1200 pupils but now that has been extended to 1300 pupils. The existing school, with the planning notice in place. Photo: Leinster Express. "This has been a long time coming. We have been very patient may be too patient and waited our turn while other schools were constructed/renovated. The students, staff and community of Portarlington are just as entitled to a modern post primary school as any other town. We do not expect preferential treatment but on the other hand we dont expect to be the poor relation either. "Thankfully the two main primary schools in the town, Presentation Primary and St Patricks BNS have received new builds over the past number of years. "We are one of the largest if not largest school in Laois and Offaly with an enrolment of over 1100 pupils. We are in a school that was built for 750 students with eight blocks of prefabs. "While we take great pride in our buildings and school we are looking forward to our new build. While we have waited this long one of the advantages is the building will be up to date with the most modern of facilities," he said. The overall site plan for the new Colaiste Iosagain in Portarlington. "The absence of a new building has not impacted the development of our school thanks to our hard working and dedicated staff. This year we are introducing PE and Computer Science to our Leaving Certificate Curriculum and Spanish into First Year. We have also been chosen as a pilot school for the new Leaving Certificate subject Climate Action and Sustainable Development in 2025. We have also just completed an Inspection of our successful Leaving Certificate Applied programme where eight of our LCA 2 students were the first in the Country to take the Maths Leaving Certificate Established paper," the principal said. Mr Brown notes all who have helped so far with the project. "The school and Board of Management would like to acknowledge the work of the Design Team lead by Keith Major of Kennedy Fitzgerald Architects of Belfast. The Design Team also includes local company MJ Turley. The officials in the Building Unit of the Department have also been very helpful and are as keen to see the development underway as the school. Cathal Berry, the local TD made the construction of a new school a priority and has worked accordingly. "We would also like to thank the Presentation Sisters as it is on the land that they donated initially that the school will be built upon. Although we now under the trusteeship of CEIST we are mindful of our roots as both Presentation Sisters and Christian Brothers schools prior to the amalgamation. Lastly but by no means least we would like to acknowledge our students, staff, parents (past and present) and the community of Portarlington who have always been so supportive of our school. "As a sole provider we are very conscious of our obligations to the community and the students we serve. Therefore, while a milestone has been reached we will not rest easy until we see the construction of our new school. Opened in 2000, in 2025 we will celebrate our Silver Jubilee. This news is a nice way to start off our celebrations," Justin Brown said. News / Local by Staff reporter On Tuesday morning, President Emmerson Mnangagwa reinstated and swore in Honourable Simelisizwe Sibanda as the Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science, and Technology Development.Sibanda was previously dismissed for performing tasks that should have been handled by officials in the primary education ministry, specifically to protect the constitutional and human rights of children to be taught in their mother tongue across the country. As an MP for Bubi, Sibanda took it upon himself to remove an Early Childhood Development (ECD) teacher who could not speak the local language from his constituency.Alongside Sibanda, President Mnangagwa also swore in new Commissioners for the Zimbabwe Land Commission and the Commission of Inquiry into the Governance of the City of Harare."This morning, His Excellency President @edmnangagwa sworn in the Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation Science and Technology Development, Honourable Simelisizwe Sibanda, and Commissioners to the following boards, Tafadzwa Charles Hungwe - Commission of Inquiry into the Governance of City of Harare and Dr Rosemary Tsitsi Choruma - Zimbabwe Land Commission and Sukai Tongogara- Zimbabwe Land Commission," read a post on X by the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services. News / Local by Staff reporter Human rights advocates, activists, and opposition politicians are on high alert as they face pressure and intimidation from the government, which is allegedly growing nervous about possible protests during the Southern African Development Community (SADC) conference.Zimbabwe will host the 44th SADC Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government on August 17, 2024, with President Emmerson Mnangagwa taking over as chairman of the regional bloc.Some stakeholders, such as South Africa's second-largest party and coalition partner, the Democratic Alliance (DA), have urged member countries to move the summit from Zimbabwe due to intensifying human rights violations.This vigilance arises in the wake of a recent clampdown on human rights defenders in the weeks leading up to the SADC summit, where incidents of surveillance and harassment against activists have intensified, raising concerns about Zimbabwe's commitment to upholding democratic freedoms and protecting civil liberties.Executive Director of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), Roselyn Hanzi, has issued a warning to human rights defenders, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance."Human rights defenders need to be on high alert. They can fall victim to nefarious activities if not vigilant," she stated.Hanzi claimed that, unlike countries such as Cote d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Niger, Zimbabwe does not have specific legislation to protect human rights defenders.The ZLHR added concerns about possible increased state surveillance and harassment of activists after receiving reports of an unmarked white Fortuner parked outside the home of Obert Masaraure, leader of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ).Vehicles were reportedly seen circling Masaraure's residence, prompting ZLHR to call on state actors to "respect the Constitution" and cease intimidation tactics against citizens.An analyst and human rights advocate, Bernard Magugu, suggested that activists consider changing their tactics to avoid preemptive crackdowns."Human rights defenders need to change tactics and go underground before the SADC conference and later spring a surprise, catching the suppressors off guard," he advised."What has worked against them before and now is that they announce their intentions, thereby alerting the onslaughts by these shadows.' Scaring a bird is not the best way of catching it. Now, human rights defenders need to be more careful than before."An opposition politician, Iphithule Maphosa, noted that restrictive laws such as the Law and Order Maintenance Act (LOMA) and the potential impact of the proposed Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Amendment Bill further constrain human rights activists."The constitution guarantees freedom of expression, assembly, association, and access to information, but of course, there are some restrictive laws like LOMA and even crimes such as disorderly conduct that restrict the actions of human rights activists," Maphosa explained.Maphosa highlighted that the state needs to be pressed to respect Zimbabwe's constitution."So it's a matter of not respecting the constitution rather than the absence of a legal framework," he said."The legal framework may also significantly change with the PVO Amendment Bill if it becomes law, because it may affect rights such as association. This is why it is arguable that the bill is unconstitutional because there should be minor restrictions imposed on how CSOs operate."Another opposition activist, Swithern Chirowodza, claimed "no one is safe" under Mnangagwa's regime."We have come this far because (the former late president) Robert Mugabe tolerated this terrorism as long as it protected his power. Mnangagwa has always clashed with other Zanu-PF members because he abused state apparatus. He uses state apparatus as an instrument of terror," he alleged.Chirowodza said that after independence, Mugabe retained Kenneth Flower as head of the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) and promoted former CID officer Dan Stannard to the position of CIO Director Internal. Their retention, along with other Rhodesia Front securocrats, sustained and ingrained Rhodesia's impunity, now seen in Zimbabwe."Mnangagwa has excelled in learning and implementing the Rhodesian impunity handbook. The caveat for human rights defenders is therefore beware of Mnangagwa,'" Chirowodza claimed.The crackdown on activists has also extended to student activists, as on July 24, 2024, 44 members of the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) were arrested during a meeting and forced to pay fines for disorderly conduct.'The students, through their lawyers at ZLHR, have challenged the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to prosecute them, asserting they committed no crime.In a separate incident, Hwange Central MP Daniel Molokele and local councillor Ellen Zulu were recently summoned by law and order police as part of a continued crackdown on rights activists.Last week, Vusumuzi Moyo, Namatai Kwekweza, Robson Chere, and Samuel Gwenzi were pulled off a waiting plane at an airport in Harare and were subjected to abuse by their captors.Lawyers representing the four said they require psychological support following their ordeal. Additionally, opposition leader Jacob Ngarivhume and cleric Bishop Kevin Nyamakanga were arrested on accusations of inciting violence, joining a growing list of activists detained by the government.In Bulawayo, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Ward 22 Councillor Mmeli Moyo was arrested last Thursday and appeared before a court charged with incitement to commit public violence.Moyo was remanded in custody until August 16, as it was alleged that he organized an unsanctioned protest aimed at inciting the public to engage in violent demonstrations in Nkulumane on Wednesday.Magugu summed up that the region and international community should be watching closely to see how the Zimbabwean government balances security concerns with respect for human rights and democratic principles during the SADC summit."With activists on high alert, the call for greater protection and freedom for human rights defenders remains urgent," he said. News / Local by Staff reporter Makhethi Ndebele, better known as Jack Mpofu, was a towering figure in Zimbabwe's liberation struggle.He passed away on July 27, 2024, at his home in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo, at the age of 82. His death serves as a tragic reminder of how a nation can neglect the heroes who fought for its freedom.Born in 1942 in Mangwe District under Chief Tshitshi, Jack Mpofu was a pioneer. He joined the fight for Zimbabwe's independence at a young age, travelling to Tanzania in 1967 to train at Morogoro Camp. There, he stood shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow revolutionaries like Ambrose Mutinhiri and Nikita Mangena, under the guidance of the legendary commander Albert Nxele.Mpofu's dedication to the cause was unwavering. He returned to Zimbabwe, working at Mwembeshi Military Camp alongside prominent figures like James Chikerema, George Nyandoro, and Jaison Ziyaphapha Moyo. His commitment to the fight led him to Russia for further military training.In 1978, he was with Nikita Mangena when the esteemed ZPRA commander was tragically killed in a landmine attack. Mpofu was injured in the blast and sent to Czechoslovakia for treatment.His life was a testament to dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. He instructed some of Zimbabwe's most prominent military leaders, including the current Zimbabwe Defence Forces chief Valerio Sibanda. He also served as an instructor in Tanzania, shaping the future of the country's military.However, despite his immense contributions, Ndebele's passing was met with a hollow recognition from the government, a posthumous award of national hero status that felt more like an attempt to quell criticism than a genuine expression of gratitude. While he was declared a national hero and granted a state funeral, the truth is that he was largely ignored during his lifetime. His sacrifices, his heroism, were forgotten.It was only after CITE conducted in-depth interviews with him that he received a Toyota GD6 vehicle from the governmenta meagre recognition for a man who dedicated his life to securing Zimbabwe's freedom.While others, particularly those from the ZANLA regiment, enjoyed top-class hospitals and were flown to China, India, and Singapore, Jack Mpofu died at home.The irony of his passing is painful. His body was adorned with an expensive gold-coated casket, but the fact remains: He was neglected by his comrades in charge of Zimbabwe's affairs. The government's belated recognition and the lavish funeral felt more like a performative act than a genuine attempt to honour a hero.War Veterans Minister Monica Mavhunga said the government is doing its best to take care of war heroes, although the reality on the ground tells a different story, particularly for the ZPRA comrades."It is the wish of the government that every war hero is accorded the best healthcare services and to die in a good hospital," she stated.Zanu-PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa acknowledged the persistent complaints about the poor welfare accorded to war veterans by the government. He stated that there has not been a deliberate program to look after war heroes, especially those who were retired and stayed in the countryside after the country gained its independence.In an interview with CITE at the burial of Makhethi Ndebele, Mutsvangwa was candid about the poor welfare of war veterans."There is a misnomer with regards to the war veterans' welfare that we always complain about. Some of our comrades went home after the war and there has never been a plan to look after them."This is the reason comrades like Chenjerai Hunzvi had to raise his voice here at the National Heroes Acre to say the welfare of the war veterans needed to be looked at."As the association, we will continue to call for improvement on the part of war veterans' welfare," he concluded. News / Local by Staff reporter Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has cautioned Zanu-PF party members against falling into the traps of self-serving personality cults, personal power struggles, and factionalism.In a speech covered by ZBC News, Chiwenga, clad in Zanu-PF attire, urged party members to stay loyal not to individuals who "come and go," but to the party and the nation as a whole."There is no room for factionalism at any level in the party. A party cannot be undermined by being defined in the confines of individuals. I repeat, no factionalism in the party, we are one and shall remain one, hapana kuti uyu ndinomuda uyu handimude, tiri tese ka? Our loyalty is not to individuals but to the bigger agenda which is larger than us, that of the party and the people of Zimbabwe who are supreme, it is the party, it is the people of Zimbabwe who are supreme, not inini saChiwenga, I will come and go," said Chiwenga.Unlike other cabinet members, including Vice President Kembo Mohadi and senior party figures, Chiwenga has refused to endorse the "ED2030" slogan.His comments have been interpreted as a direct challenge to Mnangagwa's intensifying "ED2030" campaign.Mnangagwa and Chiwenga are reportedly engaged in a fierce power struggle over Zanu-PF's unresolved leadership and succession issues, which have intensified as the former attempts to extend his rule beyond the 2028 constitutional term limit to 2030.UK-based Zimbabwean lawyer, Brighton Mutebuka, recently claimed that there is a looming "final showdown" between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga over the control of the ruling Zanu-PF party and the Zimbabwean government.Mutebuka said despite Zanu-PF's denials, there are ongoing power struggles between the two senior political figures.The academic believes Mnangagwa is now racing against time and has to execute a plan to remain in power beyond 2028 within the next 18 months. He wrote:"ED is going nowhere. Battle lines are now drawn everywhere. In SADC, in Zanu-PF and all state institutions. The unfinished business of November 2017 has returned to haunt Zimbabwe."The showdown is looming. It's how ED's political journey was always going to unfold. He was always incapable of giving up power voluntarily."Had his Mutare speech been sincere, we would have seen a tectonic shift in Zim's political terrain through the loosening of his grip over party & state affairs, genuine delegation of power/decentralisation and a lowering of the political temperature."Instead, we have seen the exact opposite! You would think it was ED's first term. There are so many political scandals engulfing ED as to disincentivise him from vacating the seat of power. One gets the impression that he is committed to rolling the political dice to the bitter end!"Virtually every current political event in Zim seems to be attributable to the intractable succession saga. From mysterious arsons to senseless arrests of political opponents & exceptionally cruel & prolonged denial of bail even to the disabled and infants such jarring heartlessness & callousness!"We are also increasingly seeing the unusual spectacle of children of high-profile regime officials getting arrested which heightens the political intrigue involved!"It's a bumpy road ahead, everyone needs to buckle up & fasten their seatbelts, especially the leading protagonists & those around them! News / Local by Staff reporter Julius Malema, leader of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, claims that Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, who played a key role in the 2017 coup that removed Robert Mugabe, has been weakened and is now unable to stop President Emmerson Mnangagwa from potentially extending his rule beyond constitutional limits.During a lecture on "Security and Good Governance in Africa" at Rhodes University in Grahamstown, Eastern Cape on Monday, August 5, Malema urged Zimbabwean youth to "rise against the tyranny" of the 81-year-old Mnangagwa, who is rumored to be planning to extend his presidency beyond 2028."Chiwenga is done, he will not be anything. They used him. Chiwenga is no longer the most powerful military man in Zimbabwe now. They have weakened him," said Malema."Only the power of the youth of Zimbabwe can change the political status quo, and the Zimbabweans have to know that we are with them, including Zimbabweans who are here in South Africa...."Go and fight from there. It's high time that you take it upon yourselves to organise so that we know that at least you're also doing something," Malema continued.Mnangagwa's Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi told The Daily News on Tuesday if the people of Zimbabwe want Mnangagwa to extend his rule, the Constitution will be amended."If the majority of the people are of the opinion that we need to extend President Mnangagwa's term, then the law can always be amended to suit the people's wishes. That is what democracy is all about." This is Chapter 20 of the 2024 Serialization of the 2nd edition of my book : The 15% Soluton: How the Republican Religious Right Took Control of the U.S., 1981-2022 . The book was first published in 1996. The second edition was published in 2013 and is available in Kindle on Amazon. A third, printed edition of the book is currently in preparation and will be in publication later this month. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Author's Commentary: The Progress of the War The Economic Sanctions It was only after the revelation of the Second Final Solution that the United States of Europe (USE) and the East Asian Confederation (EAC), the Two Major Powers, first imposed economic sanctions on the NAR, in the fall of 2020. That they did so was not entirely a sign of altruism or dedication to the cause of freedom and liberty. For years the Two Major Powers had stood by idly as the Hagueites and the American Christian Nation Party had brought fascism to the old United States, and then extended it into Canada and Latin America. Once the NAR was established, both governments happily traded with it. As noted, it was one of the world's two principal suppliers of raw materials and fossil/biomass energy resources. However, unlike the old U.S. and the NAR itself, both the USE and the EAC realized that the key to future economic security lay with renewable energy sources and that biomass, although renewable, had its limitations. So they had forged ahead with solar, geothermal, tidal, wind, and thermonuclear energy development. (There had been precedent for this. For example, by the mid-90s one of the principal members of the USE, France, was already supplying 75% of its electricity needs from nuclear power, an intermediate-stage energy source between the polluting non-renewables and the non-polluting renewables.) Thus, by the time the Second U.S. Civil War broke out, the Two Major Powers were already well on their way to energy independence from the NAR and even from their own Siberian energy resources, making it easier for them to step away. Further, there was the matter of the NAR's foreign trade debt. It dated from the time during the Transition Era when the old U.S. ran such huge negative trade balances with the old Japan and the old People's Republic of China. The annual amounts of the deficits had been reduced somewhat under the NAR as energy and raw material exports increased and the purchasing power of its citizens and subjects decreased, reducing imports. (Non"'Whites, of course, had been virtually wiped out of the market for consumer goods.) Nevertheless, the total debt continued to increase and questions were continually being raised about the on"'going ability of the Hague regime to meet its interest payments. The economic sanctions were strengthened by early winter 2021, as the international community became increasingly concerned not only with what was going on in North America but also with the very disruptive nature of the Latin Wars. The noose had begun to tighten around the Hague regime's neck. The International Brigade A new element increasing the pressure on the Hague regime appeared in the spring of 2021. At that time, the first units of the Ed ward K. Barsky [1] International Brigade arrived to fight on the side of the forces of the MRCD. The original International Brigade was a volunteer military unit that had been organized for and served on the democratically-elected Republican government's side in the Spanish Civil War (1936-39). It had been made up of people from over 40 nations around the world, including Germans and Italians who fought against the German Nazi and Italian fascist forces which had intervened on the side of the Spanish fascists under the future Spanish Fascist Dictator Franco (see previous chapter). The original International Brigade had defied the arms embargo established by the so"'called "Western Democracies" (primarily the old United States, Great Britain, and France). In the end, it could do nothing to stem the fascist tide in Spain, but it established a glorious tradition. This new International Brigade, the "E K Bees" as they were called [2], constituted the first non"'mercenary, non"'governmental external military force to intervene in a civil war anywhere in the world since the one in Spain. The first E. K. Bee forces were dispatched to three fronts. The Alaskan Force linked up with Inuit units to harry the last Hagueite forces as they pulled back from Alaska just before the spring thaw of 2021, the Hagueites having already decided that that northern outpost was no longer defensible. The Canadian Force established a free"'standing front along the New Canada/New England border and also helped the forces of New Canada in their struggle against the Quebec fascists. The Southwestern Force, landing in Baja California of the old Mexico, was able to make its way through to the Navajo/Hopi Native American Sector in Arizona. Additional E K Bee units would arrive through the summer of 2021 in various locations. The Summer of 2021 The Hagueite Sieges of selected Sectors were intensified. Newark, NJ, Atlanta, GA, and Gary, IN, were over"'run and demolished. Much as happened following the Jewish Warsaw Ghetto Uprising against the German Nazi forces in April, 1943, those of their inhabitants and de- fenders not killed in the fighting were sent to camps. (The destinations did not include the Devil's Playground, already shut down in response to international pressure.) At the same time there were the break-outs by the MRCD forces, at The Bronx, NY, Charleston, SC, Mobile, AL, Chicago, IL, Los Angeles, CA, and Oakland, CA (see below). In what came to be known as the Second Indian Wars, the MRCD forces also achieved a certain degree of success in the old Plains states and the Southwest. In Latin America, successive defeats of Hagueite forces holed up in the Andean city of Cuzco, Peru, the major Amazonian port, Manaus, and the Colombian port of Cali, plus the loss of control of the Panama Canal (the Pacific Locks of which the Hagueites dynamited before leaving), lead to the Hagueite Withdrawal to Mexico. A major result of this stepped-up military pressure on the Hagueites was a further increase in the already high level of violent anti-civilian repression in the continental NAR. Hagueite atrocities featuring massacres, rape, and torture harking back to Nanking in 1937, Indonesia in the 1960s, Cambodia in the 1970s, East Timor in the 1980s, and Bosnia-Herzegovina in the 1990s became evermore commonplace. The HM and the Independent Militias were especially active in this regard. There is some evidence that these tactics were the result of official policy decisions, but it is not conclusive. The Use of Weapons of Mass Destruction As the Hagueite military position deteriorated in the summer of 2021, discussion of the possible use of nuclear and/or chemical/biological weapons was under taken at the highest levels of the Hague regime. Potential use of the latter weapons group was quickly rejected for logistical reasons: it would simply be too hard to control the potential spread of toxic agents to areas of the White Republic adjacent to any selected targets. To this day the question of why were nuclear weapons never used by the Hagueites has not been completely answered. There has been much speculation on it, however. (The best, most recent summary of both the available evidence and the discussions of it is by Beiderbecke and Goodman [2043].) Nuclear weapons, called the "Hammer of God" by the Hagueites, were clearly considered part of their military arsenal. It was also clear that since non-Whites were considered "inferior beings" and White opponents of the regime "agents of the devil himself," "minions of the anti-Christ," and/or "black/Whites" (see Chapter 15), there would have been no compunctions about using them against either group. But nuclear weapons were not used, and the reasons why re main shrouded in mystery. Most NAR records were destroyed before the fall of New Washing ton at the end of March 2022. (Shredding of sensitive documents had been built into the Right-Wing Reactionary mentality since the days of the Nixon Watergate scandal in the 1970s, the Ronald Reagan/William Casey/Oliver North Iran-Contra scandal of the 1980s, and George Bush's departure from White House at the end of his Presidency in 1992.) But a few records and some recorded post"'War recollections remain. The possible reasons for non"'use may be summarized as fol lows. First, there was a recognition by the (very few) wise heads within the NAR's inner sanctum of the very real dangers posed by the spread of radiation with damage to the NAR's own military capacity that would necessarily occur in the environs of any target area. Second, there were strong, although unsubstantiated, rumors that the MRCD had nuclear weapons too, and would retaliate with them if first at tacked. (MRCD records that would speak to this issue are still held under the highest level of security classification.) Third, in certain quarters of the NAR leadership, there was fear of the certain negative reaction around the world, and what further pressure that might bring to bear on an NAR already beginning to suffer significantly from the effects of the economic sanctions. Then there were the technical problems. Because of the precipitous decline in the number of trained nuclear scientists, engineers, and technicians available following the abolition of the public education system and the elimination of the non-religious universities, nuclear (as well as chemical/biological) weapons stockpiles had not been well-maintained. Further, no new nuclear weapons had been produced since before the creation of the NAR. Thus, the Hagueite military could not be sure that a weapon would work, even if the attempt to use it were made. (That fear may have been justified. One nuclear weapon may well have been triggered by the NAR and failed to explode: just what the Beaumont [TX] Initiative was has never been fully explained.) As to other possible reasons for no-'use, not surprisingly there is no evidence that either moral or general environmental considerations played a part in the decision-making process. The Final Push By late summer 2021, it was clear that the MRCD forces were gain ing. Following the Oakland Breakout, they had captured San Francisco. With control of both sides of the Golden Gate, there were able to clear enough of the remains of the Golden Gate Bridge, blown up by the Hagueite forces as they left the area, to create a passable channel into San Francisco Bay. Thus the MRCD was able to establish a base for a Provisional Government and a major port for the entry of supplies and equipment (by this time the international arms embargo generally existed only on pa per). Shortly thereafter, following the respective Break-Outs, the ports of Charleston, SC and Mobile, AL were opened for the MRCD forces as well. Nevertheless, although pressed on every front, the Hagueites held out. It was their default on interest payments on their very size able debt to the EAC that ultimately lead to their demise. The East Asian Confederation had been considering military intervention for quite some time. Their supplies of raw materials had been significantly disrupted, and the remaining North American markets for their manufactured goods had virtually disappeared. There was also the increasing world-wide moral pressure to do something about a situation that created ever-intensifying human misery in the Americas and threatened stability around the world. Further, the EAC secretly obtained an agreement from the MRCD National Leadership Council that should they prevail, the MRCD would honor the NAR's foreign debt obligation, on a renegotiated, long-term repayment schedule. When the NAR defaulted, the EAC decided to move. On December 7, 2021, the EAC declared war on the White Republic of the NAR, launching a massive invasion through the Western Provinces of the former Canada. (The USE responded with a half-hearted cheer.) The assault came 80 years to the day after the surprise attack by the fascist Imperial Japanese forces on Pearl Harbor, HI that had precipitated the entry of the old U.S. into World War II. The Japanese element in the EAC High Command had insisted upon this date for launching the attack against the fascist, anti-democratic regime in North America. This would be a symbolic way, they said, of "making amends," in part at least, for that attack by the Japanese fascists on the democratic old United States so many years before. The invasion was made possible by one of the great technical feats of military history (akin in its day to the Carthaginian general Hannibal transiting the Alps of Switzerland with elephants during the Second Punic War). The EAC army was in winter able to rapidly move huge amounts of men and equipment across vast stretches of difficult terrain in Alaska and the old Canada. In part they accomplished this feat by developing a whole new class of motorized transport vehicles modeled on the "foot fortresses" that appeared in the pre-Transition Era science fiction movie The Return of the Jedi, the third of the great film-maker Stephen Spielberg's Star Wars trilogy. Also, they were able to escape detection by the NAR's partially functioning satellite surveillance system. This was accomplished by the invention of "electronic ground camouflage." Among other things, this system was capable of disguising both visual and "down-looking" radar images as observed from above, and neutralizing heat emissions from internal combustion engine exhausts so that they could not be picked up by infra-red sensors. This operation was later compared to a grand maneuver of the Imperial Japanese Army undertaken in 1942 just after its entry into World War II. It managed to pass undetected 600 miles through some of the world's thickest jungle down the Malay Peninsula to attack from the rear the then-British outpost and military base at Singapore. The British military leadership of the time had said that such a feat need not even be contemplated, much less defended against, because there was absolutely no way it could be accomplished. The Hagueite High Command said much the same thing about the threat of an EAC invasion from the north in winter. And they were just as wrong as the British generals had been. The Winter Campaign of 2022 lead eventually to the fall of New Washington in mid-March of that year, and the end of any effective Hagueite resistance shortly there after. The Core Issues of the Second Civil War The MRCD leadership knew that this Second Civil War had been fought in part over the same issues that were at the core of the First: the theory of White Supremacy, the political use of racism, and the exploitation of man by man based on the color of one's skin. New were the major issues of the destruction of personal freedom and liberty for all citizens, the end of church/state separation, the re-imposition of second-class citizenship for women, and class-based oppression of all workers regardless of skin color. Back in the 19th century, the battle of the First Civil War to abolish slavery had been won. But, the MRCD National Leadership Council knew, subsequently there had been fought an on-going, undeclared, 150 years' war still on the race issue. It was not military but it was often violent, and always political. Over time, the forces of humanism had lost that war to the forces of racism. The final, tragic end came with the formation of the NAR itself. The Leadership knew that in the aftermath of the Second Civil War, the victory over the forces of fascism and Right-Wing Religious authoritarianism, and the destruction of the racism that Right-Wing Reaction had so effectively used for so many years to maintain its control over the American people, would have to be consciously and completely secured this time around. That would take much attention and continuing effort (which has in fact been supplied over the succeeding years, with much success). Symbolism As part of that effort, the National Leadership Council knew the strong supporting role that symbol ism could play in achieving long"'term success. And so, the MRCD leadership arranged for the formal unconditional surrender of the NAR forces and the coincident absolute and complete dissolution of the NAR government to be held at the Appomattox, VA, Court House, on April 9, 2022. That was 187 years to the day after the Union commander Ulysses S. Grant had accepted the surrender of the Confederate Commander Robert E. Lee in the same place, marking the end of the First Civil War. And passing through Richmond, VA on their way to Appomattox, the MRCD forces took care to demolish every one of the equestrian statues of Confederate generals that had lined Richmond's Monument Avenue for so many years (Allen). Those egregious reminders of the horrors of slavery, not a noble institution in any way, were finally gone. On the same day there was a ceremonial co-surrender by NAR forces to Native American forces. It was held at the Little Big Horn, Montana site of the defeat, on July 25-26, 1876, of U.S. Army troops under Gen. George Armstrong Custer, by Sioux/Cheyenne forces lead by Chief Sitting Bull. That action had been the last significant victory in the Native Americans' long-term losing struggle for self-determination against European settlers. (That struggle, as most readers of this book know, spanned close to three centuries. It would come to its final, bitter end 14 years after the U. S. victory at Little Big Horn with the massacre of non-combatant Native Americans by U.S. Army troops at Wounded Knee, S.D. [Brown].) A Provisional Government was established by the MRCD National Leadership Council on the day of the Hagueite surrender. It ruled until Constitutional government on the territory of the contiguous 48 states of the old U.S. was restored a little over a year later, on July 4, 2023, with the name, the Re"'United States of America. A Restored Constitution was duly promulgated after ratification by the re-formed states. Although many important functional changes were made, in overall structure the new Constitution and the government for which it provided the authority were largely drawn on the original (see below and Appendix VII). A new holiday to coincide with Independence Day was declared. It is called Restoration Day, in honor of the Restoration of Constitutional Democracy in the Re-United States of America, and the formal dissolution of the NAR. Restoration also recognized the renewal of the nation of Canada (restored to its former borders), the re-establishment of the U.S.-Canadian border, and, with certain changes made by the anti-fascist forces there, the re-establishment of the nations of Latin America. The Restored and Revised Constitution When the National Leadership Council of the Movement for the Restoration of Constitutional Democracy convened the Restoration Convention to write the document that would be the means to achieve their goals, they laid down several ground rules. Primary among them was that the drafters would start with the old Constitution as the foundation of their work. They would not attempt to create something entirely new. The old one had worked very well for two centuries, until the people and the Constitutionalist leadership had let down their guard against the forces of the economic oligarchy (as the author Jack London had labeled them a century and a half before in his prescient book The Iron Heel [1907]), and religious authoritarianism. Furthermore, no one was convinced that anything better than the political framework created by the Founding Fathers could be devised anyway. Federalism, the Separation of Powers, and the System of Checks and Balances were sound principles for effective government of a large nation. For years, the whole resistance movement had gathered its strength from the Restoration Declaration which focused on the Constitution. This was no time to scrap it. Thus the drafters simply had to put into it certain new provisions and principles that would permit the new government established under it to achieve the goals for the nation the MRCD had set forth in the Restoration Declaration. And that the drafters did. (The Constitution of the Re-United States of America is reproduced in Appendix VII.) It is interesting to note that among those changes were not any specific measures designed to make it more difficult in the future to concentrate power in the Executive Branch, the occurrence that had ultimately lead to fascism. It was decided that the task of preventing the re"'occurrence of fascism or anything like it is ultimately the responsibility of the people, actively participating in the democratic process, and an active, aware, and responsible pro-democracy, pro-Constitutionalist leadership. It was strongly felt that attempting to prevent the reassertion of Executive Branch domination by the means of written clauses in a Constitution would be fruitless in any case. After all, the political success of "The 15% Solution" had showed precisely how Constitutional means could be used to destroy Constitutional democracy itself. If it happened before, it could happen again. In addition, a significantly weakened Executive Branch would have made it even more difficult than it already was to solve the vast problems the nation faced in the wake of the NAR's economic, social, political, and physical destruction and desecration. Democracy cannot be legislated for any more than morality can. It requires the continued participation of an enlightened citizenship corresponding to the elector ate. It also requires effective, informed, dedicated leadership. Fortunately, to this day, at least, we have been blessed with both. The basic principles of the Restored Constitution are as follows: 1. The structure of the Federal government as originally designed is not changed. As noted, Federalism (the division of sovereignty between the Federal government and the states), the Separation of Powers, and the System of Checks and Balances among the three branches are all maintained. 2. The Federal government is an entity with independent powers, representing the people of the nation as a whole. An American citizen is a citizen of a nation, not of a separate state. These principles, all implied or stated only in ambiguous terms in the old Constitution, were made explicit in the restored one. 3. The Federal government has a major role to play in the social, economic and political life of the nation as a whole. This principle was also implied in the old Constitution and made explicit in the restored one. The restored Constitution makes it clear that the Federal government is to take an active role in the economic affairs of the country. The impetus for this emphasis was the so-called "anti-government," so-called "free market" forces' miserable failure in all aspects of their stewardship of the economy through the Transition Era and the Fascist Period. 4. Finally, again as implied in the original, the Federal and state governments' abilities to interfere with and limit individual freedom and liberty, as long as the expression of those rights on balance harms no one else, is severely limited. At the same time, reflecting the Jeffersonian principle so clearly stated by him in the original Declaration of Independence with the statement "it is to secure these rights [of "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness"] that governments are instituted among men," under the restored Constitution the government has the obligation to actively protect individual freedoms and liberties and de fend their expression, again with the caveat, as long as the expression of those rights on balance harms no one else. Just what that "balance" in each and every case was, was to be left to the courts to decide. Some of the Details Although the overall structure remained unchanged, many detailed changes were made. For example, the Electoral College system for the election of the President was replaced with direct, popular election, the Senate was enlarged to one-third the size of the House of Representatives and the seats were allotted to the states roughly in proportion to their population (rather than the arbitrary two each) with a provision for cumulative voting, and the old First Amendment was significantly expanded. As noted, the full text (with extensive "Author's Notes" dealing with most of the changes) is reproduced in Appendix VII. For quick reference, many of those changes are summarized below, not necessarily in order of importance, but in order of how they appear in the document. The Preamble, largely ignored by politicians of all stripes in the old United States, was explicitly incorporated into the sections of the re-established Constitution that described the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the Federal government. Further, it was significantly expanded, to wit: "We the people of the Re-United States, with faith in our humanity and ability to work together within the democratic process, in order to form a more perfect Union, banish the disease of racism, create respect for the dignity and individuality of each human being, establish justice, implement true multi-culturalism, insure domestic tranquility, promote the general welfare, protect our environment, provide for the common defence, recognize the essentiality of inter-dependence and community to individual and species survival, and secure the blessings of freedom and liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and re-establish this Constitution for the United States of America." Article I, among other things, clearly established the Federal government's authority over the composition of the State and local governments. It also removed from anyone with any official connection to the old NAR regime eligibility for participation in the restored Constitutional government, except in very special circumstances. As else where in the Constitution, with the creation of the system of direct election for President/Vice-President, the former reference to "electors" was deleted. The old political practice of "gerrymandering" electoral districts to fit political needs, named after an early nineteenth century governor of Massachusetts, Elbridge Gerry, was prohibited. The old national "Election Day," the first Tuesday in November, was retained by specification. The Senate as a separate, longer-term, hopefully more deliberative institution was preserved, but representation by State in it was made proportional to population. With the adoption of cumulative voting for Senatorial candidates, some provision for proportional representation was made. The re-institution of the old "filibuster rule" in the Senate, under which a minority could prevent a matter even from coming to a vote, and the enactment of any "3/5ths" rule for categories of legislation like tax-increases that were so favored by Right-Wing Reaction during the late Transition Era, or any similar anti-democratic measures, were prohibited. The practice of buying the votes of Senators and Representatives through the medium of political campaign contributions had accelerated during the Transition Era. Various attempts to institute "campaign finance" and "lobbying" reforms all failed before the onset of the Fascist Period, while the practices at which such reform attempts were aimed played a major role in the onset of fascism. Thus the reforms were put directly into the new Constitution. Many changes were made to Article I, Section 8, the one that describes the functions of the Congress. The broad outlines of a new economic policy, called by some the "Guided Free Market" and other "Social Capitalism," were spelled out. The provision for the income tax was incorporated directly. As in all other industrialized countries, the national government was given an explicit role in supporting of the arts and the sciences. Full Federal representation for the residents of the Capitol district, without also creating the complex inter-governmental relations problems that outright statehood would have created, was provided for. The institution of Federal land ownership was placed in the Constitution. Finally, the Congress was given the authority and responsibility to implement one of the most important elements of the Preamble: "banish racism." In Section 9, the authority of the restored Constitution was explicitly extended to cover the actions of government at all levels, and a non-discrimination clause, reinforced by various provisions of the new Article VIII covering Rights and Liberties, was added. In Article II, as noted a system of direct election for the President/Vice-President was created. In Article III the power and authority of judicial review of the Constitutionality of actions of the other two branches of the Federal government, and of the actions of all branches of the State and local governments, was explicitly given to the Supreme Court. All actions taken by the Supreme Court of the old U.S. before it had handed down its decision in Anderson v. Board of Education (2003, see Chapter 5) removing from itself the judicial review power, were held to be valid as precedent for the new Court. But Supreme Court decisions from that date forward were made invalid as precedent for the new Court. A legal category of "Crimes Against the Constitution" was to be defined by Congress, limited to acts performed by officers and employees of the NAR. In Article V, as previously noted, even though fascism had been first brought to the old United States by entirely legal means, especially through the process of Constitutional amendment, the authors of the new Constitution were willing to put every one of its provisions at risk of future amendment. They thus put their faith in the renewal of the democratic process in the Re-United States as the primary bulwark against any future "Constitutional" re-imposition of fascism. That faith has so far been fully rewarded. In Article VI, all debts contracted and engagements entered into, by the old United States of America as well as by the regime of the "New American Republics," before the adoption of the Constitution, were declared to be valid against the Re-United States. This provision recognized the obligation undertaken by the Movement for the Restoration of Constitutional Democracy's National Leadership Council to the East Asian Confederation, as a consideration to the latter for their intervention in the Second Civil War on the side of the MRCD. All of the Amendments to the old Constitution after the XXVIIth were simply ignored and thus made moot, except one. The old "Supremacy Amendment" (see Chapter 9) that had enabled the placement of the "Law of God" above the Constitution itself was explicitly revoked. The "no religious test" provision of the old Constitution was reinstated. The new Article VIII covered Rights and Liberties. In any cases of conflict with the old Bill of Rights, the original First Ten Amendments to the Constitution, the latter were amended to conform with the new, expanded list. Further, an attempt was made to remove ambiguities from the Bill of Rights, which became Sections One-Ten of this Article. In Section 1, what had been the original "First Amendment" of the old Constitution, the "Wall of Separation" between Church and State implicit in it was made explicit. To prevent the exploitation of the right of free speech by the forces of hate, hatred, and division, as happened to an increasing extent during the Transition Era and of course the Fascist Period, a free speech limitation based on the English Common Law Intentional Tort of Assault was added. The subsequent language in this Section is taken from language of the "Declaration of Rights" of the Treaty of Paris (1990) adopted by an international organization of the time called the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (Bush, G. W.; "Charter of Paris"). Some of the language is redundant with that found in other Sections of this Article, but in the shadow of the horrors of American fascism and its prelude, the drafters wanted to be certain that the basic rights and freedoms would be clearly protected by the Constitution. Section 2 of Article VIII clarified the original intent of the old Constitution that indeed the Second Amendment applied strictly to state militias, not the private ownership of firearms, and also explicitly provided for government-regulated ownership of same. Section 5 combined the major provisions of the old Vth and XIVth Amendments, and qualified that highly contentious promoter of selfishness, the old "takings clause." Section 8 prohibited the use of the death penalty by any level of government jurisdiction, with one, political, exception. The IXth and Xth Amendments, important defenders of individual rights and freedoms, were retained unchanged. The language of the old "Equal Rights Amendment" for women, that in the early Transition Era had failed of ratification by one state following an intense campaign against it by Right-Wing Reaction was inserted. Section 12 established freedom of choice in the outcome of pregnancy as a Constitutional right, and established a government obligation to protect its exercise. Section 13 made it unconstitutional to discriminate on the basis of gender preference, identity, or orientation in any public accommodation, facility, or institution, public or private employment, or educational institution receiving public support. The Civil Rights Act that had been made part of the old Constitution by the XVth Amendment, but never enforced until the passage of the legislative Civil and Voting Rights Acts of the Johnson Era, was retained. Finally, the Restoration Convention chose not to enact term limits of any kind, concluding that no matter how couched and for what purpose, they were anti-democratic. Thus the XXIInd (Presidential term limit) Amendment was left out. This then constituted the restoration of Constitutional democracy in the Re-United States of America, the work concluded on the fifth day of May in the Year of our Lord two thousand and twenty three. References : Allen, M., "Home of Dixie Generals Bungles Salute to Ashe," New York Times, January 4, 1996, p. A14. Beiderbecke, B., and Goodman, B., Nuclear Weapons and the Second Civil War: To Use or Not to Use --- That Was the Question, Los Alamos, NM: Lost Horizon Press, 2043. Brown, D., Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee, New York; Holt, Rinehart, and Winston, 1970. Bush, G. W., "CSCE: Putting Principle into Practice," U.S. Dept. of State Dis patch, Vol. 1, No. 13, Nov. 26, 1990. "Charter of Paris," signed, November 21, 1990; excerpts printed, New York Times, Nov. 22, 1991; U.S. Dept. of State, "CSCE at a Glance: Fact Sheet," September, 1990. London, J., The Iron Heel, reprinted, Chicago, IL: Chicago Review Press, 1980, first published, 1907. Author's Notes : [1] The Brigade was named in honor of an American surgeon who was the Commander of the Medical Unit for the International Brigade. (This book is dedicated in part to Dr. Barsky's memory.) During and after the Second World War (1939-45), Dr. Barsky headed an American organization called the Joint Anti-Fascist Refugee Committee (the "Spanish Committee" for short). It was established to provide assistance for refugees from Spanish fascism living all over the world, but especially in the south of France. Shortly after the end of World War II, Dr. Barsky became a victim of what would soon become known as "McCarthyism" in the old U.S. As noted in Chap ter five, McCarthyism was an "anti-communist" political, economic, and social hysteria, aimed at repressing any left-wing activity in the country. It was named for an alcoholic junior Senator from Wisconsin, Joseph R. McCarthy, who was one of its two most prominent and vicious proponents. (The other was Representative, then Senator, then Vice-President, Richard M. Nixon of California, who would in 1974 become the only President of the old U.S. to resign the office rather than face almost certain impeachment for crimes against the Constitution committed while in it.) McCarthyism gripped the old U.S. from 1947 through the end of the 1950s. Its most prominent feature was that through a combination of legal action and socio-economic pressure left-wing citizens were made to pay a price for holding perfectly legal beliefs and taking perfectly legal actions that stood contrary to the prevailing right-wing views in the country, for refusing to disavow their beliefs, and/or before official bodies of one kind or another name others as "left-wing" or "disloyal" as well. The prices paid ranged from loss of livelihood and/or profession to going to prison. Dr. Barsky had refused to reveal the names of contributors to his organization to the inquisitors of the notorious House Un-American Activities Committee. (This agency of repression was the historical predecessor of the House American Morality Committee that would, in the early Fascist Period, first bring Jefferson Davis Hague to national attention [see Chapter 6].) Because of his refusal to "name names," along with several other prominent Americans such as the writer of progressive historical fiction Howard Fast, Dr. Barsky was cited for contempt of Congress. He was convicted and sentenced to six months in jail, of which he served four. Following his jail term, the New York State Board for Medicine suspended Dr. Barsky's medical license for two years, entirely for political reasons. After his license was restored, he returned to the practice of surgery, carrying on until his death in 1963. [2] The name was a play on the old "Seabees" of the United States Navy during World War II, the Naval Construction Battalions that built so many fortifications on islands and atolls across the Pacific Ocean during the amphibious campaigns against the Japanese Empire, 1942-45. (Article changed on Aug 06, 2024 at 10:53 AM EDT) (Article changed on Aug 06, 2024 at 10:57 AM EDT) (Article changed on Aug 06, 2024 at 7:24 PM EDT) Duluth, Minnesota (OpEdNews) August 5, 2024: The American journalist Elle Reeve has written a remarkably readable book titled Black Pill: How I Witnessed the Darkest Corners of the Internet Come to Life, Poison Society, and Capture American Politics Atria (Simon & Schuster, 2024). The Wikipedia entry on Elle Reeve says that "Reeve earned her Bachelor of Journalism degree at the University of Missouri School of Journalism in 2005." According to Wikipedia, "Reeve covered the August 2017 United the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, for Vice News Tonight, during which she interviewed neo-Nazi Christopher Cantwell and other demonstrating white supremacists, capturing footage of them carrying tiki torches while chanting 'Jews will not replace us!' which went viral. Her report, entitled Charlottesville: Race and Terror, earned both her and Vice News Tonight a Peabody Award, four Emmy Awards, and a George Polk Award." Now, in Reeve's "A Note on Sources" in her new 2024 book Black Pill (p. 253), she says, "This book is based on countless hours of interviews from 2013 to 2023, as well as contemporaneous emails, text messages, social media posts, police reports, plane tickets, receipts, etc. Some of the internal communications between Unite the Right organizers [of the tragic August 2017 rally in Charlottesville, Virginia] were revealed as evidence in the federal civil lawsuit Sines v. Kessler in 2021. Facts reported by other news media are noted. Some names have been changed, including Anna and Lisa, in some cases to protest those who feared violence from the people they used to know." The August 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville turned tragic when twenty-year-old James Alex Fields from Ohio plowed his car into the Charlottesville crowd, killing Heather Heyer and injuring others (p. 184). According to Reeve, "In Maumee, Ohio, a twenty-year-old with a framed photo of Hitler in his bedroom, named James Alex Fields, thought [Richard] Spencer should be the president of the United States. At least that's what he told his mom, many months later, from jail, after he was arrested for murder at the rally" (p. 152). The federal lawsuit Sines v. Kessler was filed in October 2017 by "Roberta Kaplan, a lawyer who'd successfully argued at the Supreme Court to end the ban on gay marriage" (p. 198). "There were nine plaintiffs - people who lived in the area and were hurt on one or both nights. The twenty-six defendants, including Richard Spencer, Elliot Kline, Nathan Damigo, Jason Kessler [a local], Christ Cantwell, Jeff Schoep, Matt Heimbach, and Matt Parrott, could not afford such fancy lawyers, if they could afford one at all. A few had convinced a lawyer to represent them, only to be dropped when they failed to pay" (p. 198). Spencer (pp. 281-282), Kline (p. 277), Damigo (p. 272), Kessler (p. 276), Cantwell (p. 271), Schoep (p. 281), Heimbach (p. 275), and Parrott (p. 278) are all listed in the "Index" (pp. 269-283) with multiple page references for each. In addition, Reeve says, "I have reproduced the hateful comments of the people I interviews only where necessary and to remove any doubt that terms such as white supremacy, misogynist, and fascist are accurate" (p. 253). As to Reeve's title Black Pill, she explains in her "Prologue: Surf the Kali Yuga" (pp. 1-5) that it was derived by certain people on the internet from the 1999 movie The Matrix. Reeve says, "In The Matrix, the hero, Neo, is presented a choice: take the blue pill and return to life in a pleasant illusion created by machines, or take the red pill and learn the truth. And what is the truth? 'That you are a slave, Neo. Like everyone else, you were born into bondage, born inside a prison that you cannot smell, taste, or touch. A prison for your mind.' "The red pill became the main metaphor of internet politics. It didn't suggest a conversion - that you had adopted a new set of beliefs - but that you had liberated yourself from politics entirely. You saw the world as it really is. You were thinking clearly for the first time in years, maybe in your whole life. "I'd heard the red-pill narrative of dozens of alt-right trolls (whose red pill was that white supremacy was good) and radical virgins called incels (whose red pill was that feminism had ruined society) long before I'd heard it from QAnoners (whose red pill was that Trump was fighting a secret satanic pedophile cabal that had seized control of the government). Many had been searching for an explanation for something - a breakup, a bad idea, a felony conviction, the financial crisis - and discovered this secret knowledge. A gay Jewish lawyer told me he could point to a single meme that made him a Holocaust denier. "Once the red pill took hold, endless variations followed - the green pill, the white pill, the iron pill, etc. You could be Russia-pilled or crypto-pilled or Marx-pilled; the term could express pride in your own epiphany or contempt for a nutjob. The only one that matters is the 'black pill.' "The black pill is a dark but gleeful nihilism: the system is corrupt, and its collapse is inevitable. There is no hope. Times are bad and they're going to get worse. You swallow the black pill and accept the end is coming" (pp. 2-3). Next Page 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). Bangalore, India - August 6, 2024 - Bangalore Culinary Academy, a premier institution dedicated to culinary education and innovation, is proud to announce a series of new initiatives aimed at fostering culinary excellence and expanding opportunities for aspiring chefs. With a mission to provide world-class culinary education, the academy continues to set the benchmark for culinary training in India. Innovative Programs and Courses Bangalore Culinary Academy offers a diverse range of programs The Oregon Firearms Federation and Firearms Policy Coalition are suing Oregons attorney general and police superintendent, alleging that the states recently adopted ban on the possession and sale of ghost guns is unconstitutional. Last year, the Legislature passed an amended House Bill 2005 that banned the guns. Ghost guns are untraceable, with their parts typically bought online and assembled at home. They also lack commercial serial numbers. Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum celebrated the bills passage last June, saying it affirmed the states commitment to responsible gun ownership. She said guns assembled from online kits or made from 3D printers are weapons of choice for gun traffickers or people who cant otherwise legally obtain a gun. The complaint -- filed in federal court in Portland Monday by the two gun rights advocacy groups along with three members of the groups -- contends the ban prohibits them from exercising their Second Amendment rights to bear arms and will increase their danger of sustaining a direct injury as a result of its enforcement. Throughout American history, people have been free to personally manufacture, construct, and/or assemble arms for lawful purposes, including self-defense in the home, the complaint says. The law, signed by Gov. Tina Kotek a year ago, prohibits the sale, manufacture and possession of any undetectable gun, meaning one that cant be picked up by a metal detector or other security measure, and any unserialized gun, unfinished frame and receiver. Under the law, possessing any undetectable gun is a misdemeanor while the sale and manufacture of one is a felony. Possessing and offering for sale or transfer a gun without a serial number or any unfinished frames and receivers used to make guns is a violation punishable by a fine that starts at $525 and rises after a first-time offense. The law provides exceptions for antique firearms, guns manufactured before the federal Gun Control Act of 1986, and inoperable guns. It also allows possession of the guns or transfer of the guns by federally licensed firearms dealers, manufacturers and importers. Rosenblum on Monday said her office will vigorously defend the laws constitutionality. We absolutely believe the legislature had the power to enact these common-sense laws that support law enforcement investigative efforts and protect law-abiding Oregonians, Rosenblum said in a statement Monday. The firearms coalition is a California-based nonprofit working to challenge legislation nationwide that restricts gun ownership. The individual plaintiffs are Dallin Montgomery, a Clackamas County resident who now possesses an unserialized semiautomatic pistol built from a polymer frame; Nick Holdway, a Lane County resident who has multiple unfinished gun frames or receivers; and Kevin Walters, a Lane County resident who used a 3D printer to make frames for three Glock-style pistols, according to the complaint. In 2022, a federal judge in Delaware granted the Firearms Policy Coalitions request for a temporary injunction on the enforcement of some components of that states law, including the ban on the possession or manufacture of homemade firearms. She did not, however, pause or block the enforcement of a ban on the distribution of untraceable guns or gun-building codes for 3D printers. In a statement then, Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings said her office planned to continue fighting the lawsuit arguing that the states ban on the manufacture and possession of untraceable guns is a part of the states broader strategy for curbing gun violence. The idea that the Founders intended well-regulated militia to mean unregulated, untraceable, semi-automatic guns is a delusion, Jennings said. Pending before the Oregon Court of Appeals is the states challenge of a Harney County judges ruling that found the voter-approved Measure 114 unconstitutional under state law. Measure 114, approved with 50.7% of the vote in November 2022, hasnt gone into effect. It limits gun magazine capacity to 10 or fewer rounds; requires a permit to buy a gun; and closes the so-called Charleston Loophole by requiring the completion, not just initiation, of a criminal background check to buy or transfer a gun. -- Maxine Bernstein covers federal court and criminal justice. Reach her at 503-221-8212, mbernstein@oregonian.com , follow her on X @maxoregonian, or on LinkedIn. Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today to OregonLive.com. Police ordered residents of the Russell neighborhood in Northeast Portland to shelter in place on Monday after a man allegedly tried to blow up his own car and then later set off another explosion in the street. Officers arrested 62-year-old Stephen P. Filipelli after the explosions, which occurred in the 2000 block of NE 138th Place at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Portland Police Bureau spokesperson Mike Benner said in a statement on Tuesday. Vice President Kamala Harris? An extremist? Yes! Shes extreme in her regard for the Constitution and for the rule of law. Shes extreme in her pursuit of cheaters, tax evaders and felons. She abhors liars, sexists, braggarts, bullies and egotists. So, look out. You might just wake up after the election to expect - I hope - an extremist headed for the Oval Office. Press Release August 6, 2024 Implementation of anti-bullying policies in MATATAG curriculum need to be monitored - EDCOM 2 While anti-bullying policies, such as Social and Emotional Learning, are "embedded" in the MATATAG curriculum, monitoring teachers' capacity and actual implementation of these policies have become a challenge due to factors such as the high teacher-student ratio, difficulty in curriculum implementation, and the mismatch between teachers' training and their assigned subjects. These were the challenges found during the Second Congressional Commission on Education's (EDCOM 2) second Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting to review and amend the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA 10627, or the Anti-Bullying Law of 2013. The meeting, held on August 5, brought together key stakeholders and aimed to identify and adapt best anti-bullying practices for implementation in DepEd schools. "There is a curriculum document, but we want to know what is actually happening in classrooms...How do you know that the documents you develop are actually being implemented?", EDCOM 2 Standing Committee for Basic Education member and De La Salle University Distinguished Professor Dr. Allan B. I. Bernardo said. "The monitoring, somehow, doon kami nagkakaroon ng gap...Ang daming layer. Doon kami medyo...We're not really confident as to how it was really delivered in the classroom", Ms. Carmencita Aguas, Senior Education Program Specialist at the DepEd Bureau of Learning Delivery - Teaching and Learning Division admitted. Aside from Dr. Bernardo, the meeting was attended by EDCOM 2 Chief Legal Officer Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada, Chief Technical Specialist Krupskaya Anonuevo, OIC-Director IV, DepEd Bureau of Learner Support Services Atty. Suzette T. Gannaban-Medina, Department of Health Medical Officer IV Health Promotion Bureau Dr. Aimee Capinpuyan, representatives from the School Division Offices of Valenzuela City and Tanauan City, school officials from Xavier School San Juan, and representatives from the Child Neurology Society of the Philippines, and representatives from the Philippine Council for Mental Health. Challenges in monitoring implementation of anti-bullying policies Jona Kristen Valdez, Senior Education Specialist at the Bureau of Curriculum Development at DepEd, presented the Department's efforts to integrate Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), anti-bullying, and rights-based education lessons into the MATATAG curriculum. Manuals and materials around these competencies are developed and distributed by the Bureau, which then cascades them to the regions and divisions. Monitoring whether or not teachers actually know and apply these principles, however, is a challenge. She pointed out that the high teacher-student ratio in classrooms, and the mismatch between teachers' training and their assigned subjects have made it difficult for the Bureau to track compliance. Mr. Elias K. Santos II, LRPO Focal Person from the Division of Valenzuela City, shared that their experiential approach to teacher training has been effective. "Kailangan may passion ka kapag tinuro mo yung SEL. Hindi to yung parang theories na icacascade lang," he emphasized. He also noted that teachers need to fully communicate the impact of bullying to their students. At the Division level, he also shared that Valenzuela City's Local School Board has also taken proactive measures by placing guidance coordinators or advocates in schools to address the shortage of Registered Guidance Counselors (RGCs). These coordinators are Psychology graduates of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela, helping to bridge the gap in providing student support in classrooms. Santos further noted that incorporating anti-bullying initiatives into the in-service training of teachers, rather than large plenary sessions, has led to more cooperative and effective participation from educators. The Commission also consulted private schools, such as Xavier School San Juan. Assistant Principals Chaveli Dela Cerna and Ria Orqueza shared that the school has a clear system of reporting, with a confidential investigation process that ensures the protection of witnesses and victims. While there are notable practices both in public and private schools, challenges in implementation are still apparent. This is especially true in DepEd schools, where compliance and curriculum implementation are still major issues. "Nandoon yung papel, pero kung paano i-implement, 'yun yung iba, ano? While there is appreciation of what DepEd is trying to do, ultimately the framework is a very abstract thing that might not be actually acquired at the school level", noted Dr. Bernardo. Bernardo further emphasized, "We have to make sure that it goes to the level of the classroom, and not just on paper". "I think we know that action happens at different levels specifically because curriculum prescriptions tend to be washed out by the very school environment in which the children interact. The very community that they interact [with] sometimes subverts the intentions of the curriculum", he further observed. Dr. Bernardo is the lead researcher in a series of five studies Commissioned by EDCOM 2 with De La Salle University that tackle the issue of bullying in Philippine schools. The PISA 2018 and 2022 assessments found that the country had the highest percentage of bullying among all participating countries and territories - an alarming statistic that has led to the country's moniker as the "bullying capital of the world". EDCOM 2's Anti-bullying TWG meeting underscored the importance of adapting effective practices from both private and public sectors to enhance the IRR of the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013. Future TWG meetings will focus on conducting focus group discussions with selected stakeholders in Navotas and Tacloban City. News / National by Staff reporter Disgruntled Zimbabweans in South Africa will take to the streets of Pretoria and march to the Zimbabwean embassy on Tuesday over passport hike.The march comes after the announcement of the passport increase by nearly 50%.On July 26, the Zimbabwean consulate in Johannesburg announced that the price of a passport would increase from R3,100 to over R4,500.This has seen more than 1,000 Zimbabweans signing a petition calling on the government to review its decision.The marchers will gather from 10am at an open space on Madiba Street and Stanza Bopape Street.From the gathering point, they will proceed along Stanza Bopape Street, turn left onto East Avenue, then turn right onto Merton Avenue, and continue until they reach the Embassy of Zimbabwe.They are expected to disperse from the embassy at 1pm.The following streets will be affectedStanza BopapeBeckett StreetThomas AvenuePine StreetHamilton StreetMerton AvenueMotorist are advised to use alternative routes such asPretorius StreetFrancis Baard StreetPark StreetEdmond StreetEastwood Street Officials and residents in Alaskas capital city began assessing the damage Tuesday caused by flooding following a glacial dam outburst that has become a perennial hazard for neighborhoods near Juneaus Mendenhall Glacier. The National Weather Service said the river crested early Tuesday at 15.99 feet (4.9 meters). That is above the 14.97-foot (4.6-meter) crest a year earlier during a ferocious flood event that devoured huge chunks of riverbank, sent at least one home crashing into the water, undercut the foundation of a condo building and flooded properties near the river. MORE: Baby moose trapped in a lake rescued from a sure demise in Alaska This years flooding reached further into the Mendenhall Valley there was a lot more water in the valley, on the streets, in peoples homes, said Deputy City Manager Robert Barr. Some streets at one point had 3- (.9 meters) to 4 feet (1.2 meters) of water, possibly more, he said. The extent of the property damage was not yet clear. There, however, appeared to be less erosion than last year, he said. Some residents after last years flooding reinforced the riverbank near their houses. The river level was dropping quickly Tuesday, the weather service said. Since 2011, a side basin of the glacier has released water that has caused sporadic flooding along Mendenhall Lake and Mendenhall River. The National Weather Service late last week said the water level in the basin had reached the top of the glacier, which acts as a dam for the rain and melted snow that collect in the basin during the spring and summer. The agency at that time urged residents near the lake and river to begin preparing for flooding that could occur once the basin began to drain once a weak spot formed in the ice, creating a channel for the water to flow through. The agency issued detailed warnings as the release of water began. MORE: Portland just had its hottest July on record The city also had urged residents in areas expected to be impacted to have an evacuation plan and make plans to spend Monday night elsewhere. The city opened an emergency shelter, and about 40 people were there overnight, Barr said. He credited increased monitoring by agencies and use of technology with helping provide greater lead time to prepare this year. Oregons legal psilocybin program broke new ground again last month when the first license was granted to manufacture psilocybin edibles. Under Oregons legal framework, all psilocybin must be consumed at a licensed service center under the supervision of a trained and licensed facilitator. No psilocybin or psilocybin products can be sold over the counter for consumption off-site. About half the U.S. state attorneys general, including Oregons Ellen Rosenblum, traveled to France in a trip cosponsored by a group mostly funded by companies, including some under scrutiny of the top state lawyers. Attorneys general are among the most visible officials in state governments and the job can be a launching pad to the world stage. Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, previously held the post in California. At least seven new large wildfires sparked in Oregon in the past three days, as lightning strikes hit the fire-beleaguered states dried-out landscape, the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center said. The closest one to the Portland metro area burns southwest of Mt. Hood, around 70 miles from downtown Portland. News / National by Staff reporter South African opposition leader Julius Malema on Monday called on young Zimbabweans to "rise against the tyranny" of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, arguing that only they can stop the Zanu-PF leader from extending his rule beyond constitutional limits.The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader claimed Mnangagwa's deputy Constantino Chiwenga, who led a military coup that toppled Robert Mugabe in 2017, was severely weakened and had no capacity to stop the 81-year-old's reported quest for a third term.Mnangagwa has "nothing to offer at all", Malema said."The Zimbabwean youths must rise because that nonsense will never come to an end as long as there is no unity of purpose against the tyranny, against the suppression of political wishes of Zimbabweans," Malema said while delivering a lecture at Rhodes University on Security and Good Governance in Africa.South Africa, the Pan-African Parliament, the African Union and SADC "have to have a political will to speak for the people of Zimbabwe," he added."When it comes from us, it will have more weight than when it comes from Europe. Why? Because we are brothers and sisters, they will know it's friendly fire," he explained.He was critical of African leaders for "failing Zimbabwe" by being over friendly to its leaders even as they deny political space to rivals and steal elections."When you ask what is the resolution, no-one has taken a resolution. We need a clear resolution from SADC which gives clear timelines that by this time this should have happened. Otherwise Mnangagwa is going to come back and he has nothing to offer at all," Malema said."Chiwenga is done, he will not be anything. They used him. Chiwenga is no longer the most powerful military man in Zimbabwe now. They have weakened him. Only the power of the youth of Zimbabwe can change the political status quo, and the Zimbabweans have to know that we are with them."Malema said his call to action among Zimbabwean youths included the large Zimbabwean diaspora in South Africa."Go and fight from there," he said. "It's high time that you take it upon yourselves to organise so that we know that at least you're also doing something."Mnangagwa will assume the rotating SADC chairmanship during a summit in Harare on August 17, which comes amid diplomatic tensions with Zambia and the stubborn stain of a disputed election exactly a year ago.In the run-up to the summit, Mnangagwa has rounded up over 100 political dissidents accusing them of planning protests against his rule during the visit of regional leaders.Mnangagwa is on his second and final term as president, but his supporters have launched a campaign to scrap the two-term limit imposed by the constitution. He insists he has no such ambitions.His justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi told The Daily News on Tuesday: "If the majority of the people are of the opinion that we need to extend President Mnangagwa's term, then the law can always be amended to suit the people's wishes. That is what democracy is all about." Metsa Fibre Starts Negotiations on Possible Layoffs at Joutseno Pulp Mill in Finland Located in Lappeenranta, Finland, the Joutseno pulp mill has the capacity to produce 690,000 tonnes per year of softwood pulp, which is used as raw material for paperboard, tissue and printing papers. Located in Lappeenranta, Finland, the Joutseno pulp mill has the capacity to produce 690,000 tonnes per year of softwood pulp, which is used as raw material for paperboard, tissue and printing papers. Aug. 6, 2024 - Metsa Fibre announced that it will start negotiations on possible layoffs at Joutseno pulp mill due to a need for temporary adjustment of production to meet low delivery volumes. According to the company, the change negotiations involve the entire workforce of the Joutseno pulp mill, around 190 people in total. It is estimated that the planned layoffs, if implemented, would last up to 90 days and could be implemented in several tranches by the end of January 2025, Metsa Fibre said. The change negotiations begin in week 33 and take approximately two weeks. The targeting, amounts and timing of the redundancies will be clarified by the end of this year. About Joutseno Pulp Mill Located in Lappeenranta, Finland, the Joutseno pulp mill has the capacity to produce 690,000 tonnes per year of softwood pulp, which is used as raw material for paperboard, tissue and printing papers, as well as specialty paper products. Metsa Fibre, part of Metsa Group, produces not only pulp and sawn timber but also other bioproducts such as biochemicals and bioenergy. SOURCE: Metsa Fibre Is there such a thing as too much hope? I dont think so especially when its mixed with tempered wisdom, effective action, and foundational efforts to build upon. Hope is some seriously powerful fuel in that combination. Especially when it comes to Witchcraft. Buckle up, because this is more than just posting a sigil. A Hopepunk Traveling Why am I talking about hope? Well, the last two weeks of July were a fascinating journey physically as well as emotionally. You see, on July 21st, my partner and I began the long trek from Rhode Island to Atlanta, GA for Mystic South. In years past, weve make the journey into a tour with workshops and performances along the way, but this year I felt the urge to just make it about visiting family and friends as we headed south. The first stop was in New Jersey, where my family had gathered to celebrate the graduation of our youngest nibling. Near the end of the party, our phones alerted us to the news that Biden would not be seeking re-election. Driving to our next destination that afternoon, the mood was a mix of anxiety and contemplation. (Especially as we passed what I called the fields of cursed corn.) But as his endorsement for VP Kamala Harris was made clear, the next 24 hours were full of wonder, hope, and amazement. The internet re-discovered the phenomenon of hope-scrolling (vs doom-scrolling) as new records were broken in terms of fundraising, endorsements, and new voter registration. The incredible thing was, it wasnt just a vibe online. As we went out and about, continuing on our trek to Mystic South through the mid-Atlantic region and into the South we discerned a noticeable cheer along the way. Folks at gas stations, restaurants, grocery stores, hotels, etc all felt a bit lighter. And having toured across this country extensively since 2006, I can definitely say the vibe was distinct and remarkable. At Mystic South And that vibe was absolutely permeating Mystic South as well. Right into my Advanced Sigil Witchery workshop that took place on Friday afternoon, July 26th. (No one should be surprised by this development.) In this workshop, we go deeper into design considerations, how to build flexibility and creativity, and making the process more potent. With the last exercise, I broke out the prototype for the Sigil Witchery Oracle (coming out October 8th) and suggested we create a sigil to help keep the momentum of the vibe going forward for a successful election this November in the United States that kicks the shit out of christo-fascism and other ideas harmful to a democracy for all. Once we came up with the list of elements to be worked into the sigil, I pulled the following cards from the Sigil Witchery oracle prototype: asterisk, pentagram, zigzag, Y, wings, diamond, spoon, infinity + three directional design cards (above, below, without). The deck is intended to help stimulate creativity, so you dont have to use every card you pull. Sometimes the cards help you figure out what you dont want. But this time, everything was relevant and aligned with the words we had selected. I especially love that both above and below showed up, because we want the working to tap into exactly that kind of magical balance and flow. The without helped us place the star at the top as a goal to reach for. The Tower, The Star, & Backing Hope Folks who have been participating in the year-long program that T. Thorn Coyle and I have been running called Invoking the Star may recognize some similarities to the sigil we crafted for that working (the star, snake, and asterisk). Which I realized after the fact, because thats how brains work lol but it also makes a lot of sense as there are overlapping goals. As I mentioned in the workshop as we crafted the sigil, for several years now I have been very enthusiastic about talking about the time of the Star. That as magical practitioners while its important to acknowledge the effects of the Tower, we cant fixate on the dread and destruction. We must be ready to act to help in order to build a more hopeful and illuminated future. Which brings us back to hope and its power. I know some folks have been dismayed or concerned at the surge of hope and enthusiasm for various reasons. That perhaps folks were being a bit TOO enthusiastic, that it wont be sustained all the way to November, that its a sign of folks jumping on a cult or personality bandwagon without acknowledging the whole picture, and so on. Yall, the left is made up some of the most critical and conscious folks I know. Almost to a fault. As I said with the Living Democracy Sigil, To live democracy is to understand that its not perfect and that it takes hard work to grow and maintain it. Also, that we all must participate in the process to make it function. I seriously dont think that the burst of hope is displaced from understanding the root issues or that people could lose sight of the work that is needed. Yall, weve been through a hell of a lot through the last 8 years and we NEED that energy to burst forward so that we can heal, focus, and get ready for the next step. To say theres too much hope is to light a candle for your spell and then decide the light is too bright so you snuff it out. You have to let it burn and bring that light. It needs to be fed with your will and action. Which is why we need to keep that momentum going and make sure its grounded in both mundane and magical efforts. This sigil is just one part of many ways to help guide our way. #WeAreAradia The Enhanced Sigil If youre a regular to my sigil posts, you will notice that the final design has been augmented from what was on the whiteboard above. That sigil is perfectly fine and useable. However, with only an hour to teach what normally can be at least 90-120 minutes, the more I sat with the image, the more a new version of the sigil emerged in my mind. The stylized snake from the zigzag has become an actual snake (and you can imagine the head as part of the spoon symbolism in addition to being part of the infinity shape and again at the bottom diamond), the diamond has been multiplied by 3 and layered behind the snake for strength and at the same time, echoes the initial zigzag design. And of course, its blue. Suggestions for Sigil Use: Save the image on your devices Add it to white or blue candles Use as a focus in meditations and rituals, and whatever workings feel inspired and in-line with the intention of the sigil. I also added the design to my threadless shop and proceeds benefit Fair Fight (voting rights) Use as protection and as a guide for communication while doing the physical work necessary By request, Ive also added a pair of vinyl candlewraps to my own shop site with the proceeds going to ActBlue Remember, the political IS personal. Dont forget theres a whole collection of sigils for helping with voting. To find out more about this method of crafting sigils, checking out Sigil Witchery. If you think phishing scams only happen over the internet, youd be dead wrong. In fact, there are many different types of phishing scams, including a recent type that occurs via traditional mail. In Germany, the State Office of Criminal Investigation of Lower Saxony recently warned people about phishing attempts via mail in the form of fake letters that purport to come from their banks. Today is Amazon Prime Big Deal Days! Our editorial team lists the best tech deals here. ] Some of these phishing letters look surprisingly close to the real deal, and some even contain personalized information. Complete with official logos, they give the impression that theyre authentic. Known cases have impersonated Commerzbank and Deutsche Bank, but any bank can be imitatedand it can happen all around the globe. Heres what you need to look out for. How this mail phishing scam works The phishing letter informs you of an important matter relating to [your] account, which can involve anything from keeping your data updated to scary warnings or threats that arouse panic. Each letter is accompanied by a QR code and youre told to scan it if you want to move forward with a solution. Youre led to think that this QR code is a convenient way to visit the banks website. But if you scan the code, you end up on a fake website that looks like the real websiteand if you enter your details there, such as your login credentials, then your details will end up in the hands of the hackers and fraudsters who sent you the phishing letter. What you should do to stay safe The German authorities recommend being particularly careful and suspicious of unexpected letters. When in doubt, call your bank to double-check whether the letter is legitimate. Never scan unsolicited QR codes from anyone without verifying that theyre trustworthy. Deactivate all options on your phone to open links immediately when scanning QR codes. This way, you can scan a QR code and see the destination URL before visiting, which can help you avoid deceptive websites masquerading as genuine. If you end up falling for a QR code phishing scam (also called quishing scams), you should immediately inform your account provider (e.g., bank, credit card, online service) and have your account access blocked before changing all your passwords and restoring access. With a sense of patriotism and a resolve to improve the mental well-being of boys, the Wellmen Healthy Minds Foundation has embarked on a mental health education for boy child in Second Cycle Schools across the country. It aims to engage boys in Second Cycle Schools by exposing them to strategies on how to prepare for the upcoming WASSCE without stress thus enhancing their ability to perform better. Dr. Daniel Osei Yeboah, President & Founder of Wellmen, spoke to the media during one of such encounters with students of St. Hubert Seminary Senior High School, Kumasi on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. He emphasised that most students are under stress from fear of exams, anxiety and related mental uneasiness. "We're here to tell them to calm down, ease the pressure, relax and be able to achieve their dreams", he stated. According to him, from observation, quite several men are into drugs, alcohol and other unhealthy habits, hence, 'The Future Man' concept aims to stem the tide by engaging with young boys. "If we take care of our boys, they will be future men well-prepared to take the mantle of leadership of our dear motherland", stressed Dr. Osei Yeboah. He indicated that one astounding and depressing phenomenon that is very rife among young men of Ghana is the penchant to travel outside Ghana. "They've lost hope and a sense of belonging, but Africa is the next 'heaven', hence our resolve to engage boys on their mental health", stated Dr. Osei Yeboah. The program which started in July 2024 and is ongoing, has benefited about 15,000 students on how to manage examination-related stress. The beneficiary schools include St Hubert Seminary Senior High School, Spiritan Senior High Technical School, Osei Tutu Senior High School and Prempeh College, all in Kumasi. The others are Adonten Senior High School and Ghana National College in the Eastern and Central regions respectively. The foundation's campaign team included the following distinguished persons; Prof. Nana Kena Frimpong, Vice President, Dr. Tye Caldwell, American partner, Dr(Med). Gideon Gratien Montgomery, PRO and Mr. Wisdom Agodza, Media Production Manager, Regional Mental Health Coordinator - Faustina Nuako and Lydia Asante Frempong, the Ghana Education Service (GES) SHEP Coordinator, Kumasi Dr. Yeboah furthered that irrespective of the daunting reality of unemployment in Ghana, he challenged the youth not to flee the shores of Ghana but to believe in themselves, believe in their skill set and talents to be able to do something worthwhile for themselves. He revealed that the foundation is currently embarking on a media tour to reach more boys across the country on how to keep their sanity as they prepare for their exams. It was his considered opinion that the societal responsibility bestowed on men is humongous, requiring a lot of support for their mental health. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The U.S. Government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), partnered with the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and the Fisheries Commission to observe the end of the 2024 closed fishing season. The closed season allows fish populations to recover by protecting young and pregnant fish from fishing pressure for a month, allowing them to rest and spawn. This period also provides fishers the opportunity to mend their equipment and prepare for their expeditions. Speaking at the event USAID/Ghana Acting Mission Director, Grace Lang, disclosed Fish is an essential source of food, nutrients and livelihoods for millions of Ghanaians and that USAID supports sustainable fishing practices like the closed season because we recognize the importance of replenishing Ghana's fish stocks. The biological impact assessment of the 2023 closed fishing season shows an increase in the average sizes of round sardinella, flat sardinella and anchovies compared to before the closed season commenced. This suggests that during the closed period, populations had a chance to recover from the pressures of fishing activity, leading to a rebound in their size. Lang added. The United States is Ghanas largest development partner. In 2023, bilateral support from USAID totaled over $140 million dedicated to supporting agriculture and economic growth, health, education, governance, and more, she added. The USAID-supported Feed the Future Ghana Fisheries Recovery Activity is providing $24 million (over 355 million Ghana Cedis) in multi-year investments to restore Ghanas coastal fisheries and improve ocean conservation along the coast. Some interventions include the closed fishing season, the moratorium on new canoe entrants, electronic monitoring systems in the trawl sector, and the implementation of ministerial directives on trawl gear. USAID has also supported the establishment of regional co-management committees and local landing beach enforcement committees to ensure the participation of fishers in management decisions that affect their lives and livelihoods. About USAID The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is the lead U.S. Government agency that works to end extreme global poverty and enable resilient, democratic societies to realize their potential. USAIDs work advances an integrated approach to development. It promotes accountability, sustainable systems, and inclusive development. Source: Isaac Kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video In a bid to enhance citizen engagement and foster inclusive governance, the Ministry of Information will on Tuesday 6th August 2024 begin in Accra a series of regional town hall meetings and exhibitions across all 16 regions of Ghana. The exercise which is to ensure inclusiveness, accountability and participatory governance is on the theme Regional Revitalization: Governments Commitment to Growth, Development and Prosperity The first edition which will be held at the Teacher's Hall will have the Greater Accra Regional Minister Hon. Daniel Titus Glover deliver updates on the stages of the various developmental projects embarked upon by the Akufo-Addo & Bawumia-led administration. Other speakers will include Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam,MP as well as Information Minister Fatimatu Abubakar. All 29 districts within the region will also showcase the various projects and initiatives within their respective districts at the exhibition centre. The initiative is part of an effort by the Information Ministry to decentralise government communication and bring governance closer to the people. The meeting will bring government officials, youth groups, union representatives and community leaders together to discuss critical issues, on governance and the economy, share ideas, and take feedback for sustainable development and policy refinement. The meeting will focus on key sectors of the economy such as healthcare, infrastructure, and economic empowerment. Government appointees and other officials will provide answers to the various nagging questions in the minds of journalists and the public. Over the next few weeks, the Ministry will visit the remaining 15 regions, to further engage citizens and collate feedback on government projects and policies. This grassroots approach seeks to decentralize government communication and bridge the gap between the government and the people, ensuring that everyone contributes to Ghana's growth and prosperity. The regional town hall meetings will culminate in a national forum, where feedback and recommendations from all regions will be consolidated and presented to the government for implementation. The Minister for Information, Hon. Fatimatu Abubakar believes that by fostering open dialogue and collaboration, her Ministry will be able to strengthen the bond between citizens and the government, ultimately driving progress and development in every part of Ghana. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Isidore Kpotufe, the visionary CEO of Rivia Clinics, has been named the Most Outstanding CEO in the Start-Up Business category at the 2024 Ghana CEO Awards. This esteemed recognition underscores Kpotufes exceptional leadership and Rivia Clinics rapid ascent in Ghanas healthcare landscape. Held at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel, the awards ceremony celebrated Ghanas top business leaders driving positive change. The event was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including representatives from the Ghanaian government, foreign diplomatic corps, and traditional institutions. Rivia Clinics, under Kpotufes direction, has redefined primary care with its patient-centric approach and innovative service delivery. The company's commitment to creating a "WOW Experience" through warm hospitality, open communication, and world-class medical care has resonated with patients and industry peers alike. Kpotufe expressed gratitude to the RiviaCo team and healthcare professionals for their unwavering dedication. He emphasized the need for improved working conditions and stronger patient trust to elevate Ghana's healthcare sector. Before RiviaCo, Kpotufe successfully founded the bus booking platform Stabus and a financial technology company. His entrepreneurial journey extends beyond Ghana to Nigeria and Kenya. About Rivia Clinics Rivia Clinics offer a unique blend of in-person and virtual care, delivered in modern and inviting spaces. With a focus on patient experience and cutting-edge technology, Rivia is redefining primary healthcare in Ghana. Rivia Clinics are currently available at Dzorwulu, North Kaneshie, Koforidua, Kasoa and Tessano in Ghana. About the Ghana CEO Awards Organized by Ghanas leading event and PR firm Globe Productions, the Ghana CEO Awards in its 3rd edition, recognize outstanding business leaders making significant contributions to Ghana's economy. The awards serve as a platform to inspire and celebrate entrepreneurial excellence. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has made a passionate appeal to women to support their own by voting for the NDC come December 7. Addressing a mini gathering at Talensi in the Upper East region, Mr Mahama indicated that women play a very important role in the development of a nation. He said gone were the days where women were not placed at the forefront but lately, women have occupied salient positions such as becoming foreign ministers, Chief Justices among others. However, the only two highest positions women havent occupied are becoming presidents and vice presidents in the history of Ghana. He said Ghana is set to make history and Ghanaians particularly women should be at the forefront and rally support to make that change happen and the only way to do that is to vote for him and the NDC to come to power so that history will be set for the first woman vice presidential candidate. We have a female Chief Justice, a female Speaker of Parliament, women have been Directors of Prisons, Attorney General except the highest offices of the land. That is President and Vice President...For the first time in our history, history is going to be made because by the grace of God on 7th December 2024, a woman is going to become the first female Vice President of our country Mahama said. Mr Mahama explained that the call for history to be made is important because his Running Mate, Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman is a well-accomplished woman who is capable and has shown leadership qualities when she served as the first female Vice Chancellor of a public University and when she was the education minister in the erstwhile mahama administration. She is not only going to be Vice President because she is a woman but because she is highly capable and qualified. She has made history before. She was the first female Vice Chancellor of a public university and she has been Minister of Education before he touted Source: Salaamat Kuukua Paintsil/Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Bastian Bromse required medical intervention to remove the unexpected object lurking in his food, according to a federal lawsuit. (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) A passenger traveling from Washington Dulles International Airport to Berlin , Germany is suing United Airlines after swallowing a metal wire he says was unexpectedly lurking in his in-flight meal. Bastian Bromse required medical intervention to extricate the item, causing pain, agony and mental anguish, according to a federal lawsuit filed in Chicago, where United is headquartered. A United spokeswoman told The Independent the airline did not have anything to share since the litigation is ongoing. The episode occurred on May 27, 2023, aboard United flight 234, states Bromses complaint, which was filed in late July. Once the aircraft reached cruising altitude, the meal service began, according to the complaint. But, it says, when Bromse tucked in, he quickly realized that something was very wrong. Through no fault of his own, Bromse sustained serious injuries to the inside of his throat when he swallowed a piece of wire hidden inside his airline-provided meal, the complaint alleges. The wire became lodged in his throat, and he was required to undergo a medical procedure to have the metal removed, which caused severe discomfort and pain. Bastian Bromse was flying from Washington Dulles International Airport to Berlin when he says the offending object wedged itself in his throat. (Getty Images) As a result of the aforesaid accident Bromse suffered pain, agony and mental anguish, the complaint states, adding that Bromse was further deprived of his enjoyment of life, pursuits and interests. He is demanding $170,000 in compensatory damages, the maximum allowed under the Montreal Convention which governs an airlines liability in the event of an in-flight injury as well as a money judgment against United to be determined at trial. Bromse is far from the only traveler to experience such an incident. In June, a business-class passenger flying Air India from Bangalore to San Francisco said he bit down on a metal blade in the roasted sweet potato and fig chaat served with his meal. Airline passengers claim to have found everything from hypodermic needles to human teeth in their meals. (Getty Images/iStockphoto) A few spoonfuls into the chaat, I felt something hard/metallic inside the mouth, and after chewing for two-three seconds, I spat it out into the bowl to find a blade, Mathures Paul told The Hindu . Obviously, I complained to the stewardess who spoke for four [or] five seconds. The conversation went something like: Sorry about this and we will inform the catering team. She returned with a bowl of chickpea salad. When a passenger aboard a February 2019 Singapore Airlines flight from Melbourne, Australia to Wellington, New Zealand felt a hard object in his mouth while enjoying a forkful of rice, he soon discovered a human tooth had found its way into his meal . I threw my guts up, the man told the Australian Associated Press. For the rest of the flight I was not well. Just the idea of having someone elses body part in my food is not nice. Other fliers have allegedly found hypodermic needles in their butter chicken, cockroaches in their lentil stew, and severed snake heads in their potatoes . Bromses attorney, Chicago-based Brian LaCien, did not respond to requests for comment on Tuesday. The Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has reacted to the assertion that Ghanas first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, cannot be said to be the founder of the country. Speaking at a political campaign event in the northern part of Ghana, Mahama, a former president himself, said that after plunging the country into an economic mess, the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) also wants to change the history. Apart from destroying our economy, apart from plunging Ghana into crisis, one of the things this government wants to do is to rewrite our history. And we shall not allow them to rewrite our history, because the president said he does not accept that one person can be the founder of a nation. Yes, founding a nation takes many people, but there's always that critical one person whose sacrifice and efforts are what finally lead to the attainment of the objective that everybody is working for. And so, if you ask South Africans who is the founder of modern-day South Africa, they'll tell you, Mandela. But it was not Mandela alone, there was Oliver Tambo, there was Govan Mbeki and so many of them who fought the armed struggle to achieve independence for South Africa from apartheid. But it was Mandela's sacrifice, being in prison for over 20 years and being the symbol of the struggle that makes them say, Mandela is the founder of modern-day South Africa." He added, It is the same thing with Ghana. If you ask Ghanaians who is the founder of Ghana, who gained independence for Ghana, the majority of Ghanaians will tell you Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Because it was he who gave that critical spark to the independence struggle. That event eventually got us independence. The former president also said the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), founded by the late Dr. J.B. Danquah, which the proponents of the NPP are trying to credit for Ghanas independence, did their part but Nkrumahs contribution was above all else. He added that the UGCC, even at a point, tried to sabotage Nkrumahs independence struggle by petitioning the then-British monarch, the late Queen Elizabeth, not to grant Ghana independence. The UGCC at the time said independence gradually, in the shortest possible time. Nkrumah said independence now, and he fought for it. And that is why Ghanaians recognize him as the founder. Nobody can come and rewrite our history. Indeed, for those of you who don't know it, when the queen finally agreed to give Ghana independence, the UGCC that Nana Akufo-Addo is fighting to be recognized as founders of Ghana, wrote a petition. They sent people to England to tell the queen, don't grant independence, we are not ready yet. Even if we are saying many people fought for independence, you cannot say UGCC was part of it because they were an obstacle to independence, he added. What Akufo-Addo said: In his speech ahead of the commemoration of Founders Day on August 4, 2024, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo said that while Kwame Nkrumah played an integral role in the countrys drive towards independence, it is erroneous and untenable to accord him the privilege of being the only founder of Ghana. I speak to you this evening, rejecting completely the notion that Ghana was founded by one man. While Kwame Nkrumahs contributions to our independence are undeniable, it is important to acknowledge that the struggle for our nations freedom was a collective effort spanning several generations, the president said in his broadcast. President Akufo-Addo also listed some people whom he believes were integral in the fight towards independence and who deserve to be celebrated alongside Kwame Nkrumah. The formation of the Aborigines Rights Protection Society, the British West African National Congress, the United Gold Coast Convention, the work of countless unsung heroes, and the tenacious spirit of our people all played vital parts in bringing us to freedom and independence. Kwame Nkrumah, with his charismatic and visionary leadership, was undoubtedly a major actor in the final lap of our journey to independence. That is why, despite the several unfortunate things that happened after independence under his watch, Parliament in 2019 decided to memorialise his date of birth as Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day, the only Ghanaian so far to be so honoured in our history, he added. Watch John Dramani Mahamas remarks in the video below: Source: ghanaweb.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A professor of Accounting and Finance at the University of Professional Studies, UPSA, Isaac Boadi, has stressed that if the NDC had won the 2016 elections, the banking sector would have completely collapsed. In a one-on-one interview on GhOne TVs State of Affairs on Monday, August 5, 2024, Professor Boadi stated that there was the strongest possibility of the banking sector collapsing completely if the NDC had won the 2016 elections. Let me point out here that if the NDC had won the 2016 elections and they were not going to implement the cleanup as was done by this government, the banking sector would have collapsed completely he posited. The Dean of Accounting and Finance at the UPSA indicated that the Quality Assets Review conducted on those affected banks made it imperative for a comprehensive cleanup exercise to be undertaken and thats what the Akufo-Addo administration did. He also noted that the argument that the struggling banks needed some GHC9 billion needed to be injected into those banks to rescue them is untenable since the banks had already been supported and that did not change anything. The banks were supported by the central bank. They were given funds to resuscitate their operations and become profitable, but at the end of the day, those monies were misused he said. UniBank for instance was given GHC6.1 billion, Beige Bank also got GHC3.2 billion, UT Bank was a beneficiary of some GHC860 million, yet they failed to live up to expectations he added. He explained that poor corporate governance, false financial reporting and insider dealings were the infractions and breaches which plagued the affected banks. Some of the banks gave loans to some of the clients without collaterals. Some owners gave themselves loans without due process, and all these worked against those banks and needed to be rescued by the government lest they would have crumbled, causing much devastation than we have seen when the cleanup was undertaken he also said. On whether the banking sector is resilient now than it was before the cleanup, Professor Isaac Boadi said there may be some teething issues, the sector is better today than it used to be. Per what we have perused, per what we have seen, the banking sector is better off today than it used to be in 2015/2016. It might not be that all the indicators are pointing to the right direction, but most of them are in their positives and thats a good thing. This government saved the banking sector and they didnt collapse it he indicated. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The 2024 Presidential aspirant for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has pointed out that his government will ensure a robust impact in the agribusiness of Ghanaian farmers as he embarks on his #Mahama4Change2024 campaign tour in the Upper East region. According to the former President, the agricultural policies aims to boost the fortunes of the agriculture sector and enhance food security across the country. Posting on his official X page, formerly known as Twitter, Mr. Mahama noted that, the NDC government, will first and foremost, establish special agro-industrial zones in all sixteen regions, focusing on adding value to local crops that have a comparative advantage in producing, adding that, this will boost exports and reduce the reliance on the importation of raw materials, thus, strengthening the economy. He further stated that, his government will set up nationwide farmer service centres equipped with the state of the arts technology, equipment, inputs and opportunities geared towards improving food security and Secondly, he added, they will set up nationwide farmer service centres to provide farmers with the technology, equipment, inputs, and opportunities to improve food security and drive economic growth. By promoting advanced farming techniques and digital tools and the formation of strong farmer cooperatives, we aim to empower our agricultural community and inspire a culture of success and innovation. Finally, we will launch a programme inspired by the successful Operation Feed Yourself and Industries initiative of the early 1970s. This programme will focus on making Ghana self-sufficient bin basic staples, significantly reducing unnecessary imports, and ensuring that our people have access to affordable and nutritious food, thereby securing our food supply, Mr. Mahama said. He, therefore, called on Ghanaians to cast their votes for him in the upcoming December 7 elections in order to effect all the policies and changes he desires to make in the economy. As I have stated on my rounds and during engagements with the chiefs and religious leaders, when we vote for the badly needed change in December election, Naana and I will lead a government that will work with you, the people of Ghana, to build a more prosperous and food-secure future for Ghana." Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Running Mate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Prof Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has called on the electorates to reject any vote-buying inducements by the ruling party. She warned that such inducements only bring hardships and deny them meaningful development and better quality of life. Addressing a community durbar at Budumbram in the Gomoa East constituency on Monday as part of her three-day campaign tour of the Central Region, Prof Opoku-Agyemang noted that state resources should be used to create jobs for the youth but not be hoarded for vote-buying on election day as the ruling NPP intends doing. The money they will bring cannot sustain you for a day, and such money cannot build your polyclinic, it cannot construct your road, and it cannot also fix the deplorable school buildings that threaten the life of your wards; the 200, 500 Ghana Cedis cannot fix them, she said. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang explained that good governance is when there is a proper policy in place to provide a better life for all Ghanaians as the NDC has promised to do with the 24-hour Economy, the Womens Development Bank, and the Big Push policy for massive infrastructure development across the country. She urged electorates to vote massively for the NDC Flagbearer, Mr John Dramani Mahama, in the upcoming December 7 general elections and the Gomoa East parliamentary candidate Hon. Desmond De-Graft Paitoo to bring development to the area. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video By Maddie Hanna, The Philadelphia Inquirer (TNS) Souderton school officials say a board members social media post accusing Vice President Kamala Harris of giving sexual favors was inappropriate telling the community it doesnt reflect the school district as a whole. In a statement Friday, the district said the board has asked for time to process the situation amid calls for the resignation of Bill Formica after he posted on the social media platform X that Harris blew a lot of dudes. Formica who had responded to another users post criticizing Harris, asking Name ONE THING this chick has accomplished politically used inappropriate language and poor judgment, the district said in its statement. Noting that Formicas post has received a significant amount of attention in our community, the district said, We do not want a delay in communication from the district to be perceived as a lack of concern or disregard for the impact these comments have had on our community. Formica, an elected Republican, appears to have since deleted his X account. He did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday. Calling into question districts values As of Monday, an online petition seeking his resignation and urging people to attend an Aug. 29 school board meeting had more than 1,300 signatures. As a teacher in the district, I know how much emphasis we put on teaching our students that Character Counts, that bullying in any form is not acceptable, and that inappropriate social media use has consequences, Christine Jackson, a Souderton teacher, wrote on the petition. Describing the district as teaching students to build each other up regardless of opinions, race, gender, or political stance, Jackson said, " Mr. Formicas comment demonstrates that he has no understanding of these ideals and he should not be representing the district or be making decisions for the children living in this community. Others accused Formica of sexism and misogyny, questioning what message his comments sent to female students. First appointed to a vacant seat on the school board last summer, Formica won election to the board in November as part of a slate of Republican candidates. Students have a right to a balanced and unbiased education, Formica said on a campaign website before the election. As a school, it is our duty to keep politics and employee viewpoints out of the classrooms and maintain a level of respect for all students and staff members. Souderton Area for Responsible Leadership, a political action committee that backed the Democratic candidates, said the fact that Formica was initially chosen for a seat undermined the districts assertion that his comments didnt reflect the board as a whole. By doing this, they have shown us quite plainly that they do not believe character counts, the committee said in a statement, calling Formicas post lewd and offensive. It urged the board to demand Formicas resignation and appoint the Democrat who had run against him, Elise Bowers, as the next highest vote-getter. Formica has a history of offensive social media posts, according to critics. In one screenshot of a post a Souderton resident shared with the Inquirer, Formica said, I never saw a straight parade. No one pushes heterosexuality. Its just natures way. In another responding to a post about the first transgender woman to win Miss Maryland Formica said, Are men really better at EVERYTHING than women are? The boards president, Ken Keith, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday. In its statement, the district said that words matter. Respect matters. Our schools and offices must be spaces where diverse opinions are honored but where respect is required. (c)2024 The Philadelphia Inquirer Visit The Philadelphia Inquirer at www.inquirer.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Actor Akili McDowell, who appeared in the hit show Billions and also starred in the show David Makes Man, has been arrested in Houston after police there said he shot and killed a man. The 21-year-old McDowell was reportedly taken into custody after police say he shot and killed Cesar Peralta, in the parking lot of a Houston Apartment complex back on July 20. The Associated Press reported that McDowell remains in jail there, charged with murder, and has a bail of $400,000. Its any new parents worst nightmare. TikTok star David Allen is mourning the death of his newborn daughter Lily Grace, who died five weeks after birth. The social media influencer confirmed to TMZ in an update that the newborn passed away in her sleep unexpectedly. Before then, The TikTok star, whos known on the platform as ToTouchAnEmu, broke the heartbreaking news on Instagram and TikTok on Aug. 4. Allen began the post by mentioning how his TikTok fame has provided him with plenty of opportunities. I met a lot of cool people, celebrities, be[en] on shows, interviews, things like that. It was really neat, he said. But as the post continued, he announced the death of his daughter. But the coolest thing I ever did was welcome my baby, Lily, into this world with my wife, Jessica, he said. She was five weeks old about a week ago when she passed away at midnight. Lily Grace was born to Allen and his wife Jessica on June 21 with her birth announcement being shared on Instagram. She died weeks later on July 27. He explained that he waited to announce the news publicly due to his struggle with processing the loss. Allen did not reveal her cause of death. I have cried every tear I can possibly cry. I think its not easy, Allen explained. I dont wish this on anybody. I dont even really know what to say. Ive waited a week to even mention it because I didnt know how to talk about it. He continued, I dont really know what else to say. I just want to get it out there. Just go hug your little one, squeeze them tight for me, he said at the end of the video. Allen also said that followers interested in giving to the family can donate to Childrens Medical Center Dallas in her name, Lily Grace Allen. If you want to send something to me or my wife or our family, I have an address on my page, Allen shared. The newborns memorial service will be held on Tuesday, but its only open to those invited. But the TikTok star told followers they could send us flowers or a card, you can do that too. Lets Get The Party Started because Pink is back in the United States with her Summer Carnival tour. Just Give Me a Reason why you shouldnt catch the show on Sunday, Aug. 18, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia; or on Tuesday, Oct. 1, at Hersheypark Stadium. Fans can buy tickets here (prices are as of the time of this publication): Sunday, Aug. 18, Philadelphia Tuesday, Oct. 1, Hershey Other stops on the tour include: Aug. 10 - St. Louis, Missouri Aug. 14 - Toronto, Canada Aug. 21 - Foxborough, Massachusetts Aug. 24 - Chicago, Illinois Aug. 28 - Missoula, Montana Aug. 31 - Edmonton, Canada Sept. 3 - Tacoma, Washington Sept. 4 - Tacoma, Washington Sept. 6 - Vancouver, Canada Sept. 7 - Vancouver, Canada Sept. 11 - San Diego, California Sept. 13 - Las Vegas, Nevada Sept. 15 - Los Angeles, California Oct. 3 - East Rutherford, New Jersey Oct. 6 - Syracuse, New York Oct. 9 - Columbus, Ohio Oct. 12 - Indianapolis, Indiana Oct. 14 - Detroit, Michigan Oct. 15 - Detroit, Michigan Oct. 17 - St. Paul, Minnesota Oct. 18 - St. Paul, Minnesota Oct. 20 - Lincoln, Nebraska Oct. 21 - Sioux Falls, South Dakota Oct. 23 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin Oct. 24 - Des Moines, Iowa Nov. 3 - Austin, Texas Nov. 6 - Arlington, Texas Nov. 8 - Tulsa, Oklahoma Nov. 11 - Raleigh, North Carolina Nov. 12 - Raleigh, North Carolina Nov. 14 - Atlanta, Georgia Nov. 16 - Birmingham, Alabama Nov. 18 - Orlando, Florida Nov. 20 - Columbia, South Carolina By David Goodhue, Miami Herald (TNS) MIAMI A beachgoer found 25 packages of cocaine washed up on shore in the Florida Keys on Sunday, according to the U.S. Border Patrol. The drugs were located on a beach in the Upper Keys Village of Islamorada, said Adam Hoffner, assistant chief patrol agent for the Border Patrols Miami sector. The Border Patrol said in a statement on X that the cocaine had a street value of more than $1 million. Then Tropical Storm Debby skirted the area Sunday en route to making landfall along the Gulf Coast of Florida on Monday morning. Cocaine found floating offshore or on the beach of the Keys is actually a common occurrence. During the last week of July, a diver hunting for spiny lobster found a kilo of cocaine in the ocean off the Upper Keys. Last Tuesday, a person cleaning up trash near a seawall in Key Largo found a brick of cocaine, said Adam Linhardt, spokesman for the Monroe County Sheriffs Office. In June, divers off Key Largo found what they initially thought to be a large pile of trash floating in about 100 feet of water. It turned out to be 25 kilograms of individually wrapped cocaine. 2024 Miami Herald. Visit miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Want a say in the news? Email Claudia at todayinpa@pennlive.com to have your thoughts on the stories covered here or on PennLive heard. You can listen to the latest episode of Today in Pa on any of your favorite apps including Alexa, Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and YouTube. Episodes are available every weekday on PennLive. Feel free to subscribe, follow or rate Today in Pa. as you see fit! Today in Pa. Daily Podcast | August 6, 2024 A student pleaded guilty to sexual abuse and burglary, and now how schools treat criminal records during the college application process is up for debate. A battle between lawmakers concerning a climate change program has hit the $4.2 million mark in legal bills. Philadelphians will see their property tax bills go up by an average $330. And head on over to Pennsylvanias top beer destinations. Those are the stories we cover in the latest episode of Today in Pa., a daily weekday podcast from PennLive.com and hosted by Claudia Dimuro. Today in Pa. is dedicated to sharing the most important and interesting stories pertaining to Pennsylvania that lets you know, indeed, whats happening today in Pa. Todays episode refers to the following articles: If you enjoy Today in Pa., consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts or on Amazon. Reviews help others find the show and, besides, wed like to know what you think about the program, too. As sponsored by Renewal by Anderson of Central PA. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has scheduled a hearing on Wednesday, Aug. 28 to gather public comment on the slot machine operator license renewal of Hollywood Casino in Grantville. The PGCB said Tuesday the public hearing will take place at the East Hanover Township Building at 8848 Jonestown Road in Grantville at 10:30 a.m. The hearing is open to the public. Citizens, public officials and community groups can choose to speak or submit written testimony. People who would like to provide in person or written testimony should visit the PGCB website at gamingcontrolboard.pa.gov, and click the link on the PGCB Meetings section on the home page for more information and registration. Citizens wishing to provide comments, either in person or in written form, must register ahead of time. The deadline for registration to speak or submit written testimony is noon on Monday, Aug. 26. Written testimony can be submitted through the PGCB website, via email at boardclerk@pa.gov., via fax to 717-265-7416 or by U.S. Mail to PA Gaming Control Board, 303 Walnut Street/5th Floor Commonwealth Tower, Harrisburg, PA 17101, Attention: Board Clerk. A listing of all government officials, community groups and individuals registered to speak at the hearing will be posted on the PGCB website at beginning the week prior to the hearing. The listing will be updated daily. The public hearing is the first of a two-step process for Hollywood Casino Grantvilles slot machine operator license renewal. The second step is to hold a separate public hearing in Harrisburg at a date to be determined. Hollywood Casino representatives will offer evidence and oral arguments at that time. PGCB members can ask additional questions at that hearing. The burden is on the renewal applicant to establish and demonstrate, by clear and convincing evidence, its eligibility and suitability for renewal of a gaming license. During the hearing, the renewal applicant will be given the opportunity to demonstrate, among other things, its good character, honesty and integrity; compliance with its statement of conditions; as well as provide evidence on tax revenue generated; jobs created; success in implementing its diversity plan; and involvement in the surrounding communities. -- Thanks for visiting PennLive. Quality local journalism has never been more important. We need your support. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. Follow Tom De Martini on X @TomDeMartini1 A man was killed Saturday when the tractor-trailer in which he was a passenger went off Interstate 81 and crashed into a truck parked along the shoulder in Lebanon County, police said. A tractor-trailer veered from the right lane of I-81 north and into a legally parked tractor-trailer just after 4 a.m. at mile marker 87.8, near Fort Indiantown Gap, according to Pennsylvania State Police. Police said there was no one in the parked truck at the time. The force of the crash pushed the back end of the striking tractor-trailer into I-81 norths left lane, where a third tractor-trailer crashed into it, state police said. Adrian M. Jemmott, 31, of Trenton, New Jersey, was ejected out of the striking tractor-trailers windshield and pronounced dead at the scene, according to state police. State police said two of the three tractor-trailer drivers suffered minor injuries. Police have not released a cause for the crash. I-81 north was shut down for hours after the crash and reopened around 1 p.m. Saturday. By LEA SKENE, The Associated Press BALTIMORE (AP) Elected officials and union leaders in Baltimore are calling for safer and more humane working conditions for the citys public works employees after a man collapsed and died from heatstroke last week while collecting trash during hot summer weather. Critics say the Friday death of Ronald Silver II is a tragic result of longstanding problems within the agency, including an abusive culture perpetuated by supervisors and a lack of concern for basic health and safety measures. These men and women are doing the jobs that none of us wishes to do. Theyre picking up trash, Baltimore City Councilmember and former public works employee Antonio Glover said during a news conference Tuesday morning outside City Hall. And Im here today to say that we can no longer treat our men and women like the very same thing they pick up trash. City officials had previously said that Silver died late Friday afternoon after experiencing a medical situation that required immediate assistance while he and his fellow crew members were riding in their truck. Temperatures in the Baltimore area climbed to about 100 degrees on Friday, according to the National Weather Service. On Monday, the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner attributed his death to hyperthermia, a condition that results from a persons body overheating. His death was ruled accidental. Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and Acting Department of Public Works Director Khalil Zaied said in a statement that their agencies were working with the crew and medical professionals who tended to Mr. Silver to understand the details of what occurred. Baltimore City Councilmember Isaac Schleifer, center, speaks at a news conference demanding safe working conditions for public works employees. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)AP Local media outlets reported that Silver rang the doorbell of a northeast Baltimore resident late Friday afternoon asking for help. The person who answered the door called 911 on his behalf. He stopped breathing on my stoop, Gabby Avendano told The Baltimore Sun. She said Silver appeared disoriented and clinging to life by the time he reached her doorstep. He asked her to pour water on him. Why no one, his coworkers, never called 911 if he was behaving like that just completely boggles my mind, she told the newspaper. Department of Public Works spokesperson Mary Stewart declined to answer questions about the events leading up to Silvers death, including whether supervisors were notified about his condition earlier in the shift. Stewart also declined to provide Silvers age. Officials with the medical examiners office didnt respond to emails requesting that information. By Anthony R. Wood, The Philadelphia Inquirer (TNS) Whats left of what has become Tropical Storm Debby is days away from the Philly region, forecasters say, but its impacts will be felt around here Tuesday and by the end of the weekend, a half foot of rain or more may have fallen in some places. The National Weather Service has posted a flash-flood watch for Philadelphia and its neighboring counties on both sides of the river in effect from 2 p.m. Tuesday until noon Wednesday for an expected 1 to 2.5 inches of rain, with isolated higher amounts. And although Debbys career path wont become clearer until later in the week, its associated tropical moisture represents a significant rain threat to areas of eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware into the weekend. Its conceivable that between now and the end of the weekend, someone in the area could get over 6 or 7 inches of rain, said Dave Dombek, senior meteorologist with AccuWeather Inc. Debby is expected to produce potentially historic rainfall totals of 10 to 20 inches, with maximum amounts of 30 inches, bringing areas of catastrophic flooding across portions of eastern Georgia, the coastal plain of South Carolina, and southeast North Carolina through Wednesday. Across portions of central and northeast North Carolina, 6 to 12 inches of rainfall, with local amounts to 18 inches, are expected through Saturday morning. This rainfall will likely result in areas of considerable flash and urban flooding, with significant river flooding expected.National Hurricane Center The governments Weather Prediction Center on Monday afternoon was projecting rainfall totals of 6 inches or more in parts of the region with a bulls-eye over South Jersey, very much subject to change, of course. Debby as of late Monday afternoon Debby made landfall in a sparsely populated area of northern Florida as a minimal Category 1 hurricane Monday morning, but by 11 a.m. it had been demoted to a tropical storm and its peak winds were down to to 50 mph by 5 p.m. as it approached the Georgia border, the National Hurricane Center said. It had significant impacts on the Sunshine State, with flooding rains, storm-surge flooding, and at one point more than 260,000 were without power in Florida, according to poweroutage.us. The future of Debby The hurricane center expects Debby to follow a serpentine track, bowing toward the coast before jogging back inland and arcing toward southern Delaware as a tropical depression on Saturday. In the meantime, the circulation around Debby will export moisture well to the north of the storms center. Debbys potential impacts on the Philadelphia region As plumes of moisture pulse northward from Debby, they will interact with an approaching cold front to generate heavy rains and thunderstorms Tuesday afternoon into Wednesday, the weather service says. Wednesdays forecast high of 75 degrees would mark the first time in almost two months that the Philadelphia temperature failed to reach 80. The governments Weather Prediction Center rates the chances of excessive rains in Philadelphia as a three on a scale of four. Severe storms are possible, said Dombek, and that first round of rain may be an appetizer. It kind of sets the table for what happens later in the week, Dombek said. Debby made landfall along the Gulf Coast of Florida early Monday as a Category 1 hurricane. It since has weakened to a tropical storm and is moving slowly, covering roads with water and contributing to at least five deaths.National Hurricane Center In fact, the weather service is calling this a predecessor rain event. The storms in the first round may be capricious, favoring some areas over others, but as Debbys remains get closer, they would be more widespread. In addition, the approach of the storm could result in strong winds at the Shore. Debbys moisture may have one positive impact on the region: Precipitation deficits the last two months have been growing in the region, more than the grass. For the 60-day period ending Sunday, rain was about two-thirds of normal in Philadelphia and the neighboring Pennsylvania counties. Much of the region designated as abnormally dry, and Northeast Philly and parts of Burlington and Lower Bucks Counties were in moderate drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitors latest update, posted Thursday. Based on the forecast, keep the mowers handy. (c)2024 The Philadelphia Inquirer Visit The Philadelphia Inquirer at www.inquirer.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Susan Faber Wins First WSOPC Ring; Denies Maurice Hawkins the Record Jon Sofen Senior Editor U.S. Copy link Controversial poker pro Maurice Hawkins sought a record-tying 17th World Series of Poker Circuit (WSOPC) ring on Monday at Harrah's Cherokee. But he was denied during heads-up play by Susan Faber in the $600 No-Limit Hold'em event. Event #5 attracted 305 entrants, creating a prize pool of $157,075 at the Cherokee, North Carolina casino. In the end, it came down to a bracelet winner against a longtime pro with a history of unpaid debts accusations. And it was the former who came out on top to secure the ring and the $33,493 first place prize, while the runner-up took home $22,329. WSOPC Cherokee Event #5 Final Table Results PLACE PLAYER PRIZE 1 Susan Faber $33,493 2 Maurice Hawkins $22,329 3 Vaughn Steeves $15,567 4 Fisher Friend $11,061 5 James Hammond $8,014 6 Rodney Deaton $5,923 7 Steven McKuin $4,467 8 Joshua Palmer $3,439 9 Eric Brewster $2,705 Circuit Ring Crusher Comes Up Short Maurice Hawkins Hawkins won his 16th ring in May at Harrah's Cherokee in the $1,700 buy-in Main Event. He surpassed Josh Reichard and Daniel Lowery to move alone into second place all time, one ring away from the record held by Ari Engel. The opportunity to catch up to Engel presented itself for Hawkins on Monday. Vaughn Steeves busted in third place for $15,567, setting up a nearly even heads-up match. Faber, a 2019 World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet winner, held a slight chip lead. But her opponent entered the match 16-8 lifetime when heads-up for a Circuit ring. You can change that record to 16-9 now after Faber, who won her first ring, came out victorious and spoiled the record-tying party. Faber won her second recorded live poker tournament, according to The Hendon Mob, and first since 2019 when she won the $500 No-Limit Hold'em Salute to Warriors for $121,161 at the World Series of Poker. The newly minted WSOP Circuit champion now has $290,000 in lifetime live tournament cashes. Hawkins, on the other hand, has nearly $5.8 million in The Hendon Mob results. Despite a lengthy history of large cashes in poker tournaments, the WSOPC crusher has just about as lengthy of a history of allegedly refusing to pay off debts to backers. PokerNews has extensively covered the allegations over the past five years, including on a March episode of the PokerNews Podcast where Chad Holloway and co-hosts Kyna England and Mike Holtz discussed the situation. Hawkins has taken plenty of shots at PokerNews for, as he says, misreporting the story and distorting the truth. But Holloway has shown up with receipts that shoot down those claims, including a report in 2022 with statements from the backer he owed a significant amount of money to, along with a Florida civil court judgment against the poker pro. On the felt, Hawkins continues his mastery of the WSOP Circuit and other mid-stakes poker tournaments. But on Monday, Faber successfully played the spoiler role. Conrad & Sheaves Capture Rings Chris Conrad The Harrah's Cherokee stop includes 20 ring events and runs until Aug. 12, with the $1,700 buy-in Main Event scheduled to begin Aug. 10. Six players have already captured a gold ring in North Carolina, with a seventh to be awarded on Tuesday in the $400 Mini Main. There were just two players remaining in that tournament at the time of publishing. Chris Conrad and Warren Sheaves are among those who've captured WSOP Circuit gold during the current series. Conrad took down Event #7: $400 No-Limit Hold'em 6-Handed for $44,287, his seventh ring. Sheaves captured Event #6: $400 Pot-Limit Omaha 8-or-Better for $23,488 to win his second ring. Two starting flights of Event #9: $400 Monster Stack kicked off during Tuesday's action at the popular card room. The tournament features a $500,000 guaranteed prize pool. WSOP Circuit Cherokee Stop Current Results Event Entries Winner Prize Event #1: $600 No-Limit Hold'em Opener 600 Russell Brooks $34,713 Event #2: $400 No-Limit Hold'em Mini Main 2,936 Event #3: $400 No-Limit Hold'em 677 Donald Levine $38,381 Event #4: $400 Seniors Event 1,063 Jack Rose $54,611 Event #5: $600 No-Limit Hold'em 305 Susan Faber $33,493 Event #6: $400 Pot-Limit Omaha 8-or-Better 347 Warren Sheaves $23,488 Event #7: $400 No-Limit Hold'em 6-Handed 822 Chris Conrad $44,287 Share this article In a sign that VP Kamala Harris made a good pick with Gov. Tim Walz (MN) as her running mate, the first MAGA attack on Walz is insane. Stephen Miller posted, Walz signed a law allowing doctors to castrate minors to transition their genders without parental consentincluding taking children from other states. War on parents. War on families. Tim Walz has a record in Minnesota of supporting families with policies that make lives easier. For example, he got paid family medical and sick leave for workers in Minnesota, In May 2023, Walz signed a law creating a state-run program to provide paid family and medical leave for Minnesota workers, funded by a 0.7% payroll tax on employers, by 2026. Walz was the safe choice for Kamala Harris . He does check all of the boxes as far as having a military service history, executive experience, ties to the Midwest. There no risk of him alienating any constituency in the Democratic Party. Walz doesnt help in the South, Sunbelt, or in Pennsylvania, even though Democrats have sold themselves on the idea that he will appeal to Pennsylvanians. If MAGAs first opposition research on Walz, they are going to stick with their liberal extremist talking point and play into the culture war. Tim Walz was the right overall pick to make sure that the Democratic Party stay unified, and if this is the best that Trump and his party have to define him, Kamala Harris will be in good shape. by Parker J. Palmer Date: Wednesday, September 25 at 9:00 AM PDT Check your local times using this date/time converter. Cost: Suggested donation $10 US. While you may attend this webinar for free, as a nonprofit we depend on donations and your contribution is greatly appreciated! How We the People can reclaim our democracyupdated with a discussion guide, author videos, and a new chapter-length Introduction. In this updated edition of his prophetic book, renowned author and activist Parker J. Palmer celebrates the power of We the People to resist the politics of divide and conquer. With the U.S. now on a global list of backsliding democracies, Palmer writes about what we can do to restore civil discourse, reach for understanding across lines of difference, focus on our shared values, and hold elected officials accountable. He explores ways we can reweave the communal fabric on which democracy depends in everyday settings such as families, neighborhoods, classrooms, congregations, workplaces, and various public spacesincluding five habits of the heart we can cultivate as we work to fulfill America's promise of human equality. In the same honest, vulnerable, compelling and inspiring prose that has won Palmer millions of readers, Healing the Heart of Democracy awakens our instinct to seek the common good and gives us the tools to pursue it. With a text enhanced by a Discussion Guide and forty online author videos on key issues, you'll be able to Reflect on the personal implications of the claim that the human heart is the first home of democracy Consider everyday actions you can take to restore the infrastructure that supports our democracy Transcend the us vs. them mentality and find ways to expand and enrich your life by appreciating the value of otherness Reignite your sense of personal voice and agency to resist authoritarian appeals and restore a politics of freedom and responsibility Healing the Heart of Democracy is for anyone who values the gift of citizenship and wants to make a difference for themselves, their families and communities, and our collective wellbeing. As the late Congressman John Lewis said, We have been trying to bridge the great divides in this great country for a long time. In this book, Parker J. Palmer urges us to keep on walking, keep on talkingjust as we did in the civil rights movementuntil we cross those bridges together. Purchase Healing the Heart of Democracy from bookshop.org About the Author Parker J. Palmer is a writer, speaker and activist who focuses on issues in education, community, leadership, spirituality and social change. He is founder and Senior Partner Emeritus of the Center for Courage & Renewal, which offers long-term retreat programs for people in the serving professions, including teachers, physicians, non-profit leaders, and clergy. He holds a Ph.D. in sociology from the University of California at Berkeley, as well as fourteen honorary doctorates, two Distinguished Achievement Awards from the National Educational Press Association, and an Award of Excellence from the Associated Church Press. Palmer is the author of ten booksincluding several award-winning titlesthat have sold 2.5 million copies and been translated into ten languages: Healing the Heart of Democracy, The Heart of Higher Education (with Arthur Zajonc), The Courage to Teach, A Hidden Wholeness, Let Your Life Speak, The Active Life, To Know As We Are Known, The Company of Strangers, The Promise of Paradox, and On the Brink of Everything: Grace, Gravity and Getting Old. In 1998, the Leadership Project, a national survey of 10,000 educators, named Dr. Palmer one of the thirty most influential senior leaders in higher education and one of the ten key agenda-setters of the past decade. Since 2002, the Accrediting Commission for Graduate Medical Education has given annual Parker J. Palmer Courage to Teach and Courage to Lead Awards to directors of exemplary medical residency programs. In 2005, Living the Questions: Essays Inspired by the Work and Life of Parker J. Palmer, was published. In 2010, Palmer was given the William Rainey Harper Award whose previous recipients include Margaret Mead, Elie Wiesel, Marshall McLuhan, and Paolo Freire. In 2011, the Utne Reader named him one of 25 Visionaries on its annual list of People Who are Changing the World. In 2017, the Shalem Institute in Washington, D.C., gave Palmer its annual Contemplative Voices Award, created to honor those individuals who have made significant contributions to contemplative understanding, living and leadership and whose witness helps others live from the divine wellspring of compassion, strength, and authentic vision. In 2021, the Freedom of Spirit Fund, a UK-based foundation, gave him their Lifetime Achievement Award in honor of work that promotes and protects spiritual freedom. A member of the Religious Society of Friends (Quaker), Dr. Palmer and his wife, Sharon Palmer, live in Madison, Wisconsin. About the Facilitator Ariel Burger is an author, teacher, and artist whose work integrates spirituality, storytelling, and strategies for social change. His meeting, at age 15, with Holocaust survivor and Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel set him on a path of spiritual searching, immersive study, and activism. Ariel is the author of Witness: Lessons from Elie Wiesels Classroom, and is the Founder and Senior Scholar of The Witness Institute, whose mission is to empower emerging leaders, inspired by the life and legacy of Professor Wiesel. Ariels work, which catalyzes new experimental approaches to moral education and leadership, has been applied by learners, educators, and institutions around the world. Go back Next page The city is evaluating the extent of the damage to the riverwalk. The process could take several weeks. Read moreCayce Riverwalk remains closed due to damage from Helene. It's unclear when it will reopen. COLUMBIA A CH-47D Chinook helicopter zoomed overhead, bringing strong gusts that bent trees and sent leaves and dust flying as it hovered above the ground. As it hovered, those in the military helicopter dropped off boxes filled with packages of food known as MREs, which stands for Meals Ready-to-Eat. This wasnt for troops overseas. This was for potential Army recruits at Fort Jackson in Columbia. A crowd of teenagers and young adults, all planning to enlist, watched as the helicopter flew off. They had shivers, Sgt. 1st Class Skyler Rockey said the potential recruits told him. Thats the reaction he was looking for. In June, the Columbia Recruiting Battalion held what it calls a "Future Soldiers Mega Event" to give potential recruits a chance to experience what basic training is like. The helicopter was a bonus. The effort comes amid a nationwide recruiting crisis with the U.S. military, which slumped to the lowest since the all-volunteer force was created in 1973. In 2023, the Army fell approximately 10,000 recruits short of its 65,000 goal. This fiscal year, the Army lowered its target to 55,000 new enlistees, as well as another 5,000 through the delayed entry program. The Columbia Recruiting Battalion, which has companies across South Carolina as well as Asheville, N.C., and Augusta, Ga., also fell short, hitting 70 percent of its goal of 2,476, which includes the Army Reserve. This year, the battalions target is a bit lower, at 2,073, and it's projected to exceed that goal. South Carolina has a culture of people wanting to serve, according to the recruiting battalion's public affairs officer Ethan Gardner. "We're winning." Gardner said. "South Carolina continues over and over to be a place in this nation where young men and women are raised by good parents and understand the call to duty." The S.C. State Ports Authority is using lessons learned from extreme coastal flooding in December to help avoid damage to vehicles parked at the Port of Charleston's terminals during Tropical Storm Debby. Hundreds of vacationers on the Carnival Sunshine cruise ship parked their cars at the SPA's Union Pier Terminal ahead of a five-night voyage to the Bahamas that departed on Aug. 3, prior to forecasts of historic flooding expected to hit the peninsula this week. The last time major flooding swamped the harborfront, site hundreds of cars were damaged by water. This time, the SPA is taking a proactive approach. Port police are recording tag numbers of private vehicles parked in the most flood-prone areas, and they are contacting Carnival with the names of the owners so the cruise line can notify them of the potential flooding. If those owners give the go-ahead, the SPA will arrange for their vehicles to be towed to higher ground. "Some passengers have already given the authorization to have their vehicles towed," a spokeswoman for the SPA said Monday afternoon. The maritime agency also gave Carnival the option to return to Union Pier early, before flooding takes place. As of Monday afternoon, the company said it did not plan to change the Sunshine's current itinerary, but it would be monitoring the storm. The ship is scheduled to return to Charleston early on Aug. 8 and leave later in the day for a four-day cruise back to the Bahamas. "The team at our fleet operations center in Miami is watching the storm's path and the potential impact to Carnival Sunshine's next arrival and embarkation," a spokesman said. "Guests on the next cruise should opt in for text alerts during their online check-in as we will be sending updates via text as well as email." PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 19:31:02 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 800 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Navigating the complex landscape of real estate finance requires a multifaceted approach and a depth of experience that few own. Aby Galsky, the CEO and managing partner ofNehora Capital, LLC , exemplifies this with his experience across the industry holding various roles, including owner, managing partner, CFO, and investor. His journey from Peru to the helm of a burgeoning real estate fund in the United States provides valuable insights into the intricacies of managing and growing a real estate investment firm.A Journey of Dedication and VisionAby Galsky'sremarkable journey began in Peru, where he was born and raised. Driven by a desire for greater opportunities, Aby Galsky moved to the United States in 2007 to pursue a Master's in Business Administration from Berkeley. His education provided a strong foundation, equipping him with the expertise to excel in the competitive realm of real estate."In my early years in the United States, the education and experiences I gained were crucial in shaping my vision and approach toward leadership and real estate. I'm grateful to have gained the tools to think critically and strategically about the industry,"Aby Galskystates.In 2009, Aby Galsky relocated to Miami and joined a real estate fund, gaining invaluable experience over the next 18 months. This period ignited his entrepreneurial spirit, leading him to co-found his own fund in 2010. Aby Galsky takes pride in playing an instrumental role in shaping the fund's strategy and operations.Building on his legacy of dedication and vision, Aby Galsky recently launched Nehora Capital, LLC. Despite being a new player in the real estate sector, Nehora Capital is already making significant strides. With a mission to offer strategic solutions in the dynamic landscape of real estate finance, Nehora Capital is poised to drive growth and prosperity for its clients and partners.Leadership through ManagementThrough Aby Galsky's career, he has had the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles, given him a unique perspective on both leadership and business development.One of the pivotal roles inAby Galsky'scareer was his time as a managing partner. This position honed his leadership skills, teaching him the importance of clear communication, team motivation, and strategic decision-making."Being a manager allowed me to understand the nuances of leading a diverse team toward common goals,"Aby Galskyreflects. He emphasizes that the key to effective management is not just about directing tasks but inspiring and empowering team members to reach their full potential. This hands-on experience in leadership has been instrumental in shaping Galsky's approach to steering Nehora Capital toward success.The Responsibilities and Lessons of OwnershipWhile Aby Galsky has experience bringing the executive vision to life as a managing partner, he also knows the responsibility of being the one to set the vision and strategy.As a business owner,Aby Galskyencountered a different set of challenges and responsibilities that broadened his understanding of the real estate industry. Ownership demanded a deep commitment to every aspect of the business, from financial oversight to operational efficiencies."Owning a business means taking full responsibility for its successes and failures," Aby Galsky explains. Through this role, he learned important lessons about risk management, long-term planning, and the value of adaptability in a constantly evolving market. These experiences have equipped him with a unique perspective, allowing him to anticipate challenges and seize opportunities with confidence and foresight.Finances Front and CenterIn addition to serving as a managing partner and business owner, Aby Galsky has also gained experience as an investor and CFO. Not only have these roles enhanced his financial acumen and business development expertise, but they provided him a different lens from which to view financial performance."As an investor, you focus on returns. Everything is viewed through the lens of increasing value and ROI," explainedAby Galsky"While returns are certainly a key priority for the CFO, considerations are often broader, as a CFO must balance returns with investments that grow the businesses, debt obligations, and other operational considerations." Understanding the financial needs and concerns of those who invest in a company and those responsible for corporate fiscal health creates a well-rounded approach to business management that can help a company excel and find new avenues of growth.While not every executive has the opportunity to serve in as many diverse leadership roles asAby Galsky , all can leverage the lessons learned from viewing a business from different perspectives. Each executive and stakeholder has a role to play, and their vantage point on the priorities and opportunities may differ. Finding ways to bring these differences into harmony and understanding the needs of each role can help leaders unlock progress and value, no matter their position in the organization.Contact Info: Name: Andrew MitchellEmail: media@ cambridgeglobal.com SOURCE: Cambridge Global PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 04:50:26 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 452 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESSWIRE / August 5, 2024 / Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have untilSeptember 30, 2024to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. ("ABR" or the "Company") (NYSE:ABR), if they purchased the Company's securities between May 7, 2021 and July 11, 2024, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of ABR and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-abr/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court bySeptember 30, 2024 .About the LawsuitArbor Realty and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On March 14, 2023, NINGI Research reported that "ABR has been hiding a toxic real estate portfolio of mobile homes with a complex web of real and fake holdings companies for more than a decade." On this news, the price of ABR shares fell from $12.99 per share on March 13, 2023, to $12.12 per share on March 14, 2023, and then $11.53 per share on March 15, 2023. Then, on July 12, 2024, Bloomberg reported that the Company was the subject of a probe by federal prosecutors and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in New York that were "inquiring about lending practices and the company's claims about the performance of their loan book." On this news, the price of ABR shares fell from $15.53 per share on July 11, 2024, to $12.89 per share on July 12, 2024.The case is Martin v. Arbor Realty Trust, Inc., No. 24-cv-05347.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients - including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com Contact:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partner lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com 1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163SOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 18:40:34 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 417 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 CALGARY, AB / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / CANEX Metals Inc. ("Canex") is pleased to report that at its Annual & Special Meeting, held on August 6, 2024, Shane Ebert, Jean-Pierre Jutras, Lesley Hayes, Gregory Hanks and Blair Schultz were re-elected to the Board of Directors. Shareholders also approved fixing the number of directors at five, the appointment of BDO Canada LLP as Auditors and ratified Canex's stock option plan.About CANEX MetalsCANEX Metals ( TSX.V:CANX) is a Canadian junior exploration company focused on advancing it's 100% owned Gold Range Project in Northern Arizona. With several near surface bulk tonnage gold discoveries made to date across a 4 km gold mineralized trend, the Gold Range Project is a compelling early stage opportunity for investors. CANEX is also advancing the Louise Copper-Gold Porphyry deposit in British Columbia. Louise contains a large historic copper-gold resource that has seen very little deep or lateral exploration, offering investors copper and gold discovery potential. CANEX is led by an experienced management team which has made three notable porphyry and bulk tonnage discoveries in North America and is sponsored by Altius Minerals (TSX:ALS), a large shareholder of the Company."Shane Ebert"Shane Ebert, President/DirectorFor Further Information Contact: Shane Ebert at 1.250.964.2699 orJean Pierre Jutras at 1.403.233.2636Web: http://www.canexmetals.ca Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.Except for the historical and present factual information contained herein, the matters set forth in this news release, including words such as "expects", "projects", "plans", "anticipates" and similar expressions, are forward-looking information that represents management of CANEX Metals Inc. internal projections, expectations or beliefs concerning, among other things, future operating results and various components thereof or the economic performance of CANEX. The projections, estimates and beliefs contained in such forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause CANEX's actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, those described in CANEX's filings with the Canadian securities authorities. Accordingly, holders of CANEX shares and potential investors are cautioned that events or circumstances could cause results to differ materially from those predicted. CANEX disclaims any responsibility to update these forward-looking statements.SOURCE: CANEX Metals Inc. PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 13:01:26 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1024 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 THUNDER BAY, ON / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Clean Air Metals Inc. ("Clean Air Metals" or the "Company") (TSXV:AIR)(FRA:CKU)(OTCQB:CLRMF) is pleased to announce an upcoming 1,600-metre drilling program at its Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals ("TBN") project (the Project') (14.0 Mt Indicated resource 1.31g/t Pt, 1.37g/t Pd, 0.41% Cu, 0.25% Ni - NI 43-101 dated June 19, 2023 ). The program is comprised of up to ten short holes (100 to 185 metres in depth) that will target near-surface high-grade zones within the Current deposit to better define their lateral continuity and tonnage potential. Drilling is expected to start in early August.Significance of High-Grade Mineralization in the TBN DepositsThe Company's new technical leadership team has completed a detailed assessment of existing geological and geophysical data and resource models for the Project. The key findings of this review are:The known high-grade intersections at TBN have a regular periodicity that the Company believes are related to flow processes similar to those associated with alluvial gold deposits.Applying a tighter drill spacing within these high-grade areas could result in an increased tonnage and grade.High-grade plums' within both deposits are not easily detectable with available geophysical data, and there is an opportunity to improve data density and depth of penetration.To better understand the importance of these high-grade areas in terms of their size and potential impact on the project economics, the Company plans to drill a series of tightly spaced holes into three shallow and readily accessible high-grade areas at the Current deposit, as shown in Figure 1. Each target has a single, existing high-grade intersection. These include:5.02 g/t Pt, 4.84 g/t Pd, 1.18% Cu and 0.56% Ni over 51 m from 85 m in hole BL10-3264.20 g/t Pt, 3.80 g/t Pd, 0.85% Cu and 0.39% Ni over 23.5 m from 123.5 m in hole BL10-3284.87 g/t Pt, 4.44 g/t Pd,1.17% Cu and 0.56% Ni over 19 m from 155 m in hole BL09-155Figure 1. Plan view of the targeted area for the drill program (red dashed line) within the Bridge Zone of the Current DepositResults from the new drilling will be used to develop both an exploration program designed to potentially discover new high-grade zones and a resource delineation program to potentially increase the resources contained in these high-grade areas. They will also help guide the location for a potential bulk sample(s) pending the submission and approval of an Advanced Exploration permit.Clean Air Metals' CEO Mike Garbutt commented "New insights provided by Vice President of Exploration Dr. Lionnel Djon and director Dr. David Peck has led to a refinement to the geological template for the TBN deposits. The upcoming drilling program is a critical step in the Company's plan to significantly improve the TBN project economics by fully defining the highest value mineralization within the Current and Escape deposits." Other ActivitiesAs referenced above, the Company is preparing an Advanced Exploration application for the project, representing the first stage in the Provincial mine permitting process. The Company has already applied (July 2022) to convert some of the TBN property claims into a mineral lease (approval pending). The Company has also contracted Sisprobe to complete a passive seismic survey designed to provide a much better definition of the mineralized basal contact and to potentially map out larger sulphide trap sites (i.e., new high-grade plum' targets) at this contact in the large and untested, down-plunge target area at the Escape deposit. The Company also continues to evaluate complementary copper- and platinum metal-rich assets in the province.About Clean Air MetalsClean Air Metals is a development and exploration company advancing its flagship, 100% owned Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals ("TBN") project, 40 km northeast of Thunder Bay, Ontario. The TBN project, accessible by road and next to established infrastructure, hosts two (2) deposits - the Current and Escape deposits, only 2.5 km apart. Together, the deposits host a 14.0 Mt indicated mineral resource containing 2.4M Pt eq. oz (Technical Report on the Thunder Bay North Project, Ontario Canada, NI43-101, SLR Consulting Canada Ltd, June 19, 2023) with significant potential for expansion down-plunge.One of the rare primary platinum resources outside of South Africa, the TBN project is in a stable and mining-friendly jurisdiction and benefits from longstanding relationships with local First Nations. With its proven technical team, Clean Air Metals is committed to growing the resources at the TBN project and creating long-term value for shareholders.Social EngagementClean Air Metals Inc. acknowledges that the Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project is located within the area encompassed by the Robinson-Superior Treaty of 1850 and includes the territories of the Fort William First Nation, Red Rock Indian Band, Biinjitiwabik Zaaging Anishinabek and Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek. Clean Air Metals also acknowledges the contributions of the Metis Nation of Ontario, Region 2 and the Red Sky Metis Independent Nation to the rich history of our area.The Company appreciates the opportunity to work in these territories and remains committed to the recognition and respect of those who have lived, travelled, and gathered on the lands since time immemorial. Clean Air Metals is committed to stewarding Indigenous heritage and remains committed to building, fostering and encouraging a respectful relationship with First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples based upon principles of mutual trust, respect, reciprocity and collaboration in the spirit of reconciliation.ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS"Mike Garbutt"Mike Garbutt, CEO of Clean Air Metals Inc.Connect with us on X / Facebook / Instagram.Visit www.cleanairmetals.ca for more information or contact:Mia Boiridy Director of Communications and Investor Relations250-575-3305 mboiridy@ cleanairmetals.ca Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.Cautionary NoteThe information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not st PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 19:47:16 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 422 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 ST. LOUIS, MO / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / CMG Home Loans, the retail division of well-capitalized privately held mortgage banking firm, CMG Financial, announced today the hire of Area Sales Manager, Laurenn' Allee (NMLS #260541). Allee, a skilled mortgage expert with over 17 years of industry experience in Missouri, will be driving the CMG market in that area. Her ability to strategically strengthen teams and notably bolster production will prove useful to CMG's Central Division and clients across the Midwest.Allee has been a standout force in all of her previous endeavors, bringing respected knowledge into her position at CMG. Starting as a Manager at OneMain Financial, she provided exemplary customer service for nearly 10 years, helping clients find the right mortgage for their unique situations. She then worked for U.S. Bank in upper management for 7 years, helping home buyers achieve their homeownership dreams throughout Central Missouri. After her most recent roles as a Market Leader at Movement Mortgage and then as a Manager at Union Home Mortgage Corp., Allee brings her wealth of mortgage expertise, client satisfaction, and personal loans experience to her new position."I'm excited to be a part of the growth in the Midwest, making a positive impact on many communities through homeownership," said Allee. "With CMG's innovative proprietary loan programs, we will be able to help many who otherwise wouldn't have been able to purchase a home for their family." "We are excited to have Laurenn' join our leadership team," added Michael Harrison, Divisional Sales Manager, Central Division. "She has a strong track record of growing new markets and building purchase market share. Laurenn' will be partnering with Mike Griffin to build out CMG's client base in Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Arkansas, and Oklahoma." About CMGCMG Mortgage, Inc. (NMLS #1820), dba CMG Home Loans is a well-capitalized mortgage bank founded in 1993. Founder and CEO, Christopher M. George, was Chairman of the Mortgage Bankers Association in 2019. CMG makes its products and services available to the market through three distinct origination channels including retail lending, wholesale lending, and correspondent lending. CMG currently operates in all states, including District of Columbia, and holds approvals with FNMA, FHLMC, and GNMA. CMG is widely known through the mortgage banking and housing markets for responsible lending practices, industry and consumer advocacy, product innovation, and operational efficiency.Media Contact:Alina LundholmPhone: (847) 380-1954Email: alundholm@ cmgfi.com Contact InformationAnnaugh MadsenSenior Copywriteramadsen@ cmgfi.com (667) 260-6360Alina LundholmJunior Copywriteralundholm@ cmgfi.com (847) 380-1954SOURCE: CMG Home LoansView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 23:46:03 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 347 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 /The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Community Health Systems, Inc. ("Community Health" or "the Company") (NYSE: CYH ) for violations of the securities laws.The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Community Health issued a press release on Juny 19, 2024, "provid[ing] an update on the planned divestiture of two North Carolina hospitals." According to the Company, "On June 18, 2024, Novant Health, Inc., a North Carolina non-profit corporation ('Novant'), informed [Community Health] that Novant has decided not to move forward with the acquisition of two North Carolina hospitals. The transactions were contemplated by an Asset Purchase Agreement dated February 28, 2023 (as amended, the 'Purchase Agreement'), by and among Novant and certain subsidiaries of the Company." The Company added, "Novant's decision follows a ruling by the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals", which "issued a temporary injunction blocking the sale to Novant Health, pending final resolution of an appeal by the Federal Trade Commission. The injunction prevented completion of the transaction until the Court of Appeals decides whether to uphold or overturn a previous District Court decision that allowed the sale to proceed." If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com , or by email at bschall@ schallfirm.com The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.CONTACT: The Schall Law FirmBrian Schall, Esq. www.schallfirm.com Office: 310-301-3335 info@ schallfirm.com SOURCE: The Schall Law Firm PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 19:00:26 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 688 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 JERSEY CITY, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Copper Property CTL Pass Through Trust ("the Trust") announced today that it will host a live conference call on Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at 12:00 pm Eastern Time. Members of the Trust's management team will discuss its recent financial and operating results as reflected in the Trust's monthly report for the period ended July 31, 2024, and Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2024, both of which are expected to be filed prior to the call. The conference call will include a question and answer (Q&A) session.Additional information, including the Trust's Monthly and Quarterly Reports, as well as other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") can be accessed via the Trust's website atwww.ctltrust.net Conference Call Details:DATE: Tuesday, August 13, 2024TIME: 11:00 am CDT | 12:00 pm EDTDIAL-IN: U.S. & Canada Toll Free: (877) 841-2983 or International (215) 268-9893WEBCAST: www.ctltrust.netvia the Investor Relations Section orclick hereto accessREPLAY (Available for 30 days):U.S. & Canada Toll Free: (877) 660-6853 / International: (201) 612-7415Conference ID#: 13748365Telephone Replays will be made available approximately 3 hours after the conference end time. Participants will be required to state their name and company upon accessing the replay.About Copper Property CTL Pass Through TrustCopper Property CTL Pass Through Trust (the "Trust") was established to acquire 160 retail properties and 6 warehouse distribution centers (the "Properties") from J.C. Penney as part of its Chapter 11 plan of reorganization. The Trust's operations consist solely of owning, leasing and selling the Properties. The Trust's objective is to sell the Properties to third-party purchasers as promptly as practicable. The Trustee of the trust is GLAS Trust Company LLC. The Trust is externally managed by an affiliate of Hilco Real Estate LLC. The Trust is intended to be treated, for tax purposes, as a liquidating trust within the meaning of United States Treasury Regulation Section 301.7701-4(d). For more information, please visit https://www.ctltrust.net/ Forward Looking StatementThis news release contains certain "forward-looking statements". All statements other than statements of historical fact are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward looking terminology such as "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "might," "our vision," "plan," "potential," "preliminary," "predict," "should," "will," or "would" or the negative thereof or other variations thereof or comparable terminology and include, but are not limited to, the Trust's expectations or beliefs concerning future events and stock price performance. The Trust has based these forward-looking statements on its current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections. While the Trust believes these expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections are reasonable, such forward-looking statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond its control. These factors, including those discussed in the Trust's Registration Statement on Form 10 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), may cause its actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, please refer to the Trust's filings with the SEC that are available at www.sec.gov . The Trust cautions you that the list of important factors included in the Trust's SEC filings may not contain all of the material factors that are important to you. In addition, in light of these risks and uncertainties, the matters referred to in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release may not in fact occur. The Trust undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.Contact DetailsJessica Cummins+1 847-313-4755jcummins@ hilcoglobal.com Company WebsiteSOURCE: COPPER PROPERTY CTL PASS THROUGH TRUST PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 22:03:23 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 588 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 CrossMed Healthcare Staffing, a major staffing agency in the healthcare staffing field, has partnered with Opus Match to utilize their AI-driven candidate data technology.SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 /CrossMed Healthcare Staffing, a leader in healthcare staffing solutions based out of Omaha, Nebraska, is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with Opus Match, an innovative mobile app and AI-matching company. This collaboration will drastically shift the job-matching process for healthcare professionals by implementing Opus Match's Maestro, a candidate data platform that efficiently connects candidates to the best possible job match while speeding up the recruitment process.This new partnership, leveraging Opus Match's advanced AI technology, will provide a seamless and more data-driven experience for healthcare professionals and recruiters alike on CrossMed's website. By integrating CrossMed's extensive network and industry expertise with Opus Match's state-of-the-art matching algorithms, Maestro promises to significantly enhance the efficiency and accuracy of job matching in the healthcare sector."We are excited to partner with Opus Match to bring AI-matching technology that drastically improves the staffing experience to our candidates," said Sara Orr, CMO of CrossMed Healthcare Staffing. "Our goal has always been to provide the best experience for healthcare professionals, and Maestro will streamline the process, making it easier and faster for them to find the right job that matches their skills and what they're best at." Maestro features a user-friendly interface where recruiters can view candidates, their credentials, and their job preferences. Opus Match's AI engine will then analyze these inputs to generate highly relevant job matches, ensuring that candidates are presented with opportunities that best fit their qualifications and career aspirations."Opus Match is thrilled to collaborate with CrossMed Healthcare Staffing to transform the candidate job-matching experience," said Michael Nguyen, CEO of Opus Match. "Our AI matching is designed to understand the unique needs of each candidate and match them with the most suitable jobs for them, helping to give recruiters more time back while also helping the candidate find their next great opportunity. This is exactly what CrossMed is all about, and this collaboration will be a significant step forward in our mission to leverage technology to enhance the recruitment process." About CrossMed Healthcare StaffingCrossMed Healthcare Staffing is a premier staffing agency specializing in connecting healthcare professionals with top-tier job opportunities based out of Omaha, Nebraska. They have been nationally recognized by multiple organizations, receiving a "Best Employer - Under 100 Employees" from the Best of Omaha 2024 awards, and a "2024 Best of Staffing Talent Award for Service Excellence" by ClearlyRated. CrossMed also received a Certified Great Place To Work award and the SIA "Best Staffing Firms to Work For" in 2022. With a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the healthcare industry and its workforce, CrossMed Healthcare Staffing provides tailored staffing solutions to meet the unique needs of both candidates and employers.About Opus MatchOpus Match is an innovative mobile app AI-matching company with teams all over the world. Dedicated to revolutionizing the job search process, Opus Match has been one of the top choices for staffing-based mobile apps and AI candidate matching technology. Utilizing advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, Opus Match aims to provide personalized and accurate job matches, enhancing the recruitment experience for their clients, recruiters, and candidates.To learn more about CrossMed or Opus Match, please visit their websites.Contact InformationAidan DuclosMarketing Manager, Opus Matchaidan@ opusmatch.ai (813) 601-9878SOURCE: Opus MatchView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 22:35:22 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 687 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 HOUSTON, TX / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Dril-Quip, Inc. (NYSE:DRQ), ("Dril-Quip"), announced that its special meeting of stockholders will be held on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., Central Time for consideration and voting on the proposed merger between Innovex Downhole Solutions, Inc. ("Innovex") and Dril-Quip (the "Transaction"), as well as certain other matters relating thereto ("Dril-Quip Special Meeting"). The record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the Dril-Quip Special Meeting is the close of business on August 5, 2024.The Dril-Quip Board of Directors unanimously recommends that stockholders vote "FOR" each of the proposals to be considered at the Dril-Quip Special Meeting.The registration statement on Form S-4 (as amended, the "Registration Statement") of Dril-Quip has become effective today as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). The Registration Statement serves as both a proxy statement of Dril-Quip to solicit proxies for the meeting of Dril-Quip stockholders and as a prospectus relating to the Dril-Quip shares to be issued to certain Innovex stockholders under the Transaction (the "Proxy Statement/Prospectus"). A copy of the Registration Statement is accessible on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov Dril-Quip stockholders who need assistance in completing the proxy card, need additional copies of the proxy materials or have questions regarding the upcoming special meeting may contact Dril-Quip's proxy solicitor, Morrow Sodali, LLC, by calling toll-free at (800) 662-5200.About Dril-Quip, Inc.Dril-Quip is a leading developer, manufacturer and provider of highly engineered equipment and services for the global offshore and onshore oil and gas industry.About Innovex Downhole Solutions, Inc.Innovex designs, manufactures, and installs mission-critical drilling & deployment, well construction, completion, production, and fishing & intervention solutions to support upstream onshore and offshore activities worldwide. Innovex combines best-in-class engineering expertise with a unique blend of conventional, innovative, and proprietary technologies including WearSox deepwater centralization products, SwivelMASTER deployment technology, and dissolvable frac plugs, QCI artificial lift technologies, and a full suite of fishing tools. The company is headquartered in Houston, Texas with sales, operations and service locations throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.Contact InformationInvestor Relations: Erin Fazio, Director of Corporate Financeerin_fazio@ dril-quip.comDril-Quip Media Relations: Sydney Isaacs / Chuck Dohrenwend Sydney.Isaacs@h-advisors.global Chuck.Dohrenwend@h-advisors.global H/Advisors AbernathyImportant Information for StockholdersIn connection with the proposed merger of Dril-Quip and Innovex, Dril-Quip filed with the SEC the Registration Statement on May 1, 2024 that the Proxy Statement/Prospectus. The Registration Statement was declared effective by the SEC on August 6, 2024. Dril-Quip filed the definitive Proxy Statement/Prospectus with the SEC on August 6, 2024, and it was first mailed to Dril-Quip's stockholders on August 6, 2024. Dril-Quip has filed other relevant documents with the SEC regarding the proposed merger. This document is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement/Prospectus or Registration Statement or any other document that Dril-Quip has filed with the SEC. STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO CAREFULLY READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS (INCLUDING ALL AMENDMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT HAVE BEEN FILED BY DRIL-QUIP WITH THE SEC IN THEIR ENTIRETY BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED MERGER. Such stockholders can obtain free copies of the Registration Statement and Proxy Statement/Prospectus and other documents containing important information about Dril-Quip, Innovex and the proposed merger through the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov . Additional information is available on Dril-Quip's website, www.dril-quip.com No Offer or SolicitationThis communication is not intended to and shall not constitute an offer to buy or sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made, except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act.SOURCE: Dril-Quip, Inc. PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 22:16:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 316 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Dril-Quip, Inc. ("Dril-Quip" or "the Company") (NYSE:DRQ) for violations of the securities laws.The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Dril-Quip filed a current report on Form 8-K with the SEC on July 8, 2024. The Company's filing disclosed it had "became aware of an error in the classification of certain inventory write-downs from 2021." The Company added, "after considering the recommendations of management and discussion with the Company's independent registered public accounting firm[,] the Audit Committee of our board of directors ("Audit Committee") concluded that the consolidated financial statements for the Affected Period should no longer be relied upon due to the error described above. Any previously issued or filed reports, press releases, earnings releases and investor presentations or other communications describing the Company's consolidated financial statements and other related financial information covering the Affected Period also should no longer be relied upon." If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com , or by email at bschall@ schallfirm.com The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.CONTACT:The Schall Law FirmBrian Schall, Esq., www.schallfirm.com Office: 310-301-3335 info@ schallfirm.com SOURCE: The Schall Law Firm PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 18:30:39 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 433 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Bernstein Liebhard LLP:Do you, or did you, own shares of DXC Technology Company (NYSE:DXC)?Did you purchase your shares between May 26, 2021 and May 16, 2024, inclusive?Did you lose money in your investment in DXC Technology Company?Do you want to discuss your rights?Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the common stock of DXC Technology Company ("DXC") (NYSE: DXC) between May 26, 2021 and May 16, 2024, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the "Complaint").If you purchased or acquired DXC common stock, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit DXC Technology Company Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Investor Relations Manager Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com According to the lawsuit, Defendants made misrepresentations concerning its ongoing "transformation journey" and the company's ability to integrate previously acquired companies and business systems.If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff for the Class, you must file papers byOctober 1, 2024 . A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on other class members' behalf in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.All representation is on a contingency fee basis. Shareholders pay no fees or expenses.Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years.ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. 2024 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.Contact Information:Peter AlloccoInvestor Relations ManagerBernstein Liebhard LLP https://www.bernlieb.com (212) 951-2030 pallocco@ bernlieb.com SOURCE: Bernstein Liebhard LLP PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 16:21:16 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 499 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Acquisition Enhances Frontier Services Group's Capabilities and Expands Geographic Reach in Texas Restoration MarketHOUSTON, TX / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 /Frontier Services Group, a leading provider of emergency restoration and mitigation services, proudly announces its acquisition of Restoration XP, a prominent name in the Texas emergency restoration industry. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in Frontier's growth and reinforces its commitment to offering comprehensive restoration services across a broader geographic area.Restoration XP, headquartered in Carrollton, Texas, is renowned for its expertise in fire damage, water damage, mold remediation, and contents restoration. As the Official Restoration Partner of the Dallas Mavericks, Restoration XP has built a strong reputation for its high-quality services and community-focused initiatives in DFW."Restoration XP has consistently demonstrated exceptional service and dedication to its employees, clients and community," said David Hendrix, CEO at Frontier Services Group. "By integrating Restoration XP's services and expertise into our portfolio, we are poised to enhance our capabilities and expand our geographic footprint, providing more agility and even greater support to clients in need of emergency recovery and restoration." The acquisition will allow Frontier Services Group to leverage Restoration XP's specialized knowledge in fire restoration, water mitigation, and mold remediation, further strengthening its position in the emergency restoration services market. Restoration XP's commitment to using state-of-the-art equipment and delivering exceptional results aligns seamlessly with Frontier's mission to provide reliable and effective solutions for its clients. This partnership sets both companies up for continued success and growth, positioning us to lead the industry with enhanced capabilities and a broader reach."We are excited to join forces with Frontier Services Group," said Stephen Scott and Will Beck, founders at Restoration XP. "This partnership will enable us to reach more clients, continue delivering top-tier services, and further our mission of supporting clients in a time of need." For more information, please contact info@ frontiergp.com About Frontier Services GroupEstablished in 2010, Frontier Services Group is a leading provider of emergency restoration and mitigation services, offering a comprehensive range of solutions for fire, water, and mold damage. With a commitment to excellence and client satisfaction, Frontier Services Group delivers reliable and effective services to property owners in need of restoration and recovery. Visit https://www.frontiergp.com/ About Restoration XPRestoration XP, headquartered in Carrollton, Texas, is one of the fastest-growing emergency restoration companies in Texas, specializing in fire damage, water damage, mold remediation, and contents restoration. As the Official Restoration Partner of the Dallas Mavericks, Restoration XP is dedicated to providing exceptional service while supporting community programs for vulnerable populations, including programs for kids in foster care, families struggling with homelessness, and victims of domestic abuse. Visit https://www.restorationxp.com/ For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:Frontier MarketingFrontier Services Group marketing@ frontiergp.com (713)-937-870013735 Farm to Market Rd 529Houston, TX 77041 https://www.frontiergp.com Contact InformationMarketing Teammarketing@ frontiergp.com SOURCE: Frontier Services GroupView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 16:32:11 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 785 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Morari Bapu today dedicated his nine-day-long spiritual event at the United Nations Headquarters to the organization and prayed for world peace. After concluding the discourse, he walked to the General Assembly of the UN, where he placed the Ram Charita Manas (Ramayana) of Goswami Tulsidas and chanted the Vedic hymn:Om Sarve BhavantuSukhinah Sarve Santu Niraamayaah | Sarve BhadraanniPashyantu Maa Kashcid-Duhkha-Bhaag-Bhavet |(Om, May All be Happy, May All be Free from Illness. May All See what is Auspicious, May no one Suffer.)Indian Spiritual Leader Morari Bapu Dedicates Ram Katha at the United Nations to the Organisation for World PeaceThe leading light of Hindu Vedic Sanatana Dharma then chanted the name of his discourse, "VasudhaivaKutumbakam," followed by the holy greeting of Jai Siya Ram'. VasudhaivaKutumbakam is a Sanskrit phrase found in Hindu sacred texts such as the Maha Upanishad, meaning "The World Is One Family." Morari Bapu held a spiritual and historic nine-day Ram Katha discourse (narration of Ramayana) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York; a first-of-its-kind event by any spiritual leader. The event took place between July 27 - August 04, 2024.The Hindu spiritual guru said that the main and special shrotas (listeners) of this discourse were the five elements - sky, water, earth, air, and fire.During the course of the week, Morari Bapu met the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina J. Mohammed, who said, "While you had circumambulated the United Nations Headquarters building earlier, you are now at its heart." She added that the event had bolstered efforts to achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.Morari Bapu reciprocated the warm sentiment by communicating that his "Vyaspeetha will always be with the UNO program for world peace, world progress, and world happiness." Many years ago, Bapu had walked around the UN Headquarters while chanting the holy name. This time, he repeatedly emphasised that world leaders must rise above petty interests and make a full effort to end wars that are on in Israel and Ukraine.Earlier on July 30, several dignitaries attended the discourse, including Commissioner of International Affairs Edward Mermelstein, Deputy Commissioner of International Affairs Dilip Chauhan from the NYC Mayor's Office for International Affairs along with Deputy Commissioner and Chief of Staff Aissata Camara. The NYC Mayor's Office also extended the highest honour to Morari Bapu's Vyaspeetha.Consul General of India in New York Binaya Srikanta Pradhan and Surendra K. Adhana, Counsellor & Head of Chancery at the Permanent Mission of India to the UN, were also esteemed guests.The spiritual leader's teachings aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting peace, environmental sustainability, and social justice. He cited examples from the Ram Charita Manas to explore how these SDG themes were elaborated and advocated in the sacred text.On the concluding day, Morari Bapu related the characteristics of Ram Rajya, or the rule of the ideal king Lord Ram, and how these too exemplified a model code of life that matched the principles of the United Nations.About Morari BapuMorari Bapu, a renowned exponent of the Ramayana, has been reciting Ram Kathas for over sixty-five years. He draws from Vedic Sanatana Dharma, popularly known as Hindu Sanatana Dharma. His narrations are celebrated worldwide for their emphasis on universal peace and messages of truth, love, and compassion. Bapu's unique approach draws upon examples from various religions, inviting people of all faiths to partake in the spiritual journey.Morari Bapu began his remarkable journey of reciting the Ram Charita Manas, a revered version of the Ramayana by Goswami Tulsidas, at the age of fourteen in front of a small village audience. Over the decades, he has held Ram Kathas in numerous cities and pilgrimage sites across India and around the world, including Kailash, Bhusundi Sarovar, Rakshas Taal, and the 12 Jyotirlingas which he covered on the train.He also conducted kathas globally in countries like Sri Lanka, Indonesia, South Africa, Kenya, the United Kingdom, the United States, Brazil, Australia, Israel, and Japan, attracting millions of followers.Beyond traditional venues, Bapu has also conducted Ram Kathas for marginalized communities, including sex workers and transgender individuals. He is actively involved in extensive humanitarian efforts including during the period of the Covid 19 pandemic.Get more details of the event here: https://chitrakutdhamtalgajarda.org/katha/cambridge-united-kingdom/ Official Website: https://chitrakutdhamtalgajarda.org Watch the live telecast of the event here: ChitrakutdhamTalgajarda https://youtube.com/@MorariBapu Official Linktree: https://linktr.ee/ChitrakutdhamTalgajarda Official Social Media ChannelsInstagram: @ChitrakutdhamTalgajarda https://www.instagram.com/chitrakutdhamtalgajarda/ Facebook: @ChitrakutdhamTalgajarda https://www.facebook.com/ChitrakutdhamTalgajardaMorariBapu/ Twitter: @MorariBapu_ https://twitter.com/MorariBapu_ Telegram: @Chitrakutdham Talgajardahttps://t.me/ramkathaclipsContact DetailsShree Chitrakutdham Trust+91 78278 43358 info@ chitrakutdhamtalgajarda.org Company Website https://chitrakutdhamtalgajarda.org/ SOURCE: Morari Bapu PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 20:03:23 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 654 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Introducing Advanced Diagnostic Testing to Health Systems Across the USGREENVILLE, SC / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 /Luxor Scientific, a leader in clinical diagnostics, has entered into a strategic partnership with Capstone Health Alliance, a prominent regional group purchasing organization (GPO) in the US healthcare industry. This collaboration will grant Capstone's membership of health systems, independent hospitals, and physician offices across the country access to cutting-edge diagnostic testing and expedited results.A full-service, privately held medical and research laboratory, Luxor Scientific offers innovative testing solutions that often lead the industry in response to healthcare concerns nationwide. Driven by a team of industry leading scientists and operational leaders, Luxor has developed proprietary technology to increase speed and provide accurate results.Examples of the cutting-edge tests offered by Luxor Scientific:OWLiver, the only serum test based off the MASEF Score able to identify all damaging phases of MASLD, formally known as NAFLD.Epidermal Nerve Fiber Density (ENFD) Testing, a highly sensitive and specific test done in-office for documenting small fiber peripheral neuropathy.Clinical Medication Monitoring & Toxicology, extensive testing of urine and oral fluid samples for over 100 drugs including emerging novel illicits xylazine, pentylone, nitazenes, bromazolam, and tianeptine.CannabisConfirm, a custom solution for identifying if patients have taken Delta-8- or Delta-9-THC amidst the significant increase in usage of CBD products.Molecular Pathogen, both traditional microbiology and rapid PCR testing for infectious diseases."We are excited to join forces with Luxor Scientific to offer Capstone Health Alliance Members access to critical diagnostic tests and the information they provide to deliver optimal, timely patient care," expressed Fred J. Pane, R. Ph., FASHP, FABC, Vice President of Pharmacy Services at Capstone Health Alliance. "Most importantly, Luxor's tests will equip our Members with the ability to enhance treatment efficacy." Marion Snyder, Ph.D., Chief Science Officer of Luxor Scientific, added, "We are thrilled to collaborate with Capstone Health Alliance to provide our diagnostic tests to its extensive network. Our aim is to improve patient care by delivering innovative diagnostic solutions with industry-leading turnaround times that will aid physicians in selecting appropriate treatment plans for their patients to live healthier and happier lives." The announcement of this collaboration marks the start of a partnership aimed at improving healthcare outcomes for more patients. Luxor Scientific's extensive array of laboratory services is now accessible to members of Capstone Health Alliance. For more information about Luxor Scientific, please visit www.luxorscientific.org and for more information on Capstone Health Alliance, please visit www.capstonehealthalliance.com About Capstone Health AllianceHeadquartered in Asheville, NC, Capstone Health Alliance is a leading regional group purchasing organization (GPO) that collaborates with hundreds of hospitals and thousands of healthcare providers nationwide. Our primary goal is to deliver tangible savings and provide actionable data to enable informed supply chain decisions. Capstone is committed to helping our Members reduce costs, enhance quality, and foster the exchange of best practices, through our unwavering dedication to price parity, offering consistent savings regardless of organizational size or location. Moreover, our Members gain exclusive access to educational opportunities and benefit from the expertise of our dedicated team of supply chain professionals. To learn more about Capstone Health Alliance and how our innovative solutions can benefit your organization, please visit www.capstonehealthalliance.com About Luxor ScientificLuxor Scientific was founded with the mission of providing better information faster. As a full-service, privately held, CAP-accredited medical and research laboratory, Luxor offers a robust menu of clinical and anatomical testing services. Today, Luxor Scientific is one of the fastest-growing companies in the southeast, specializing in cutting-edge diagnostic testing solutions in the areas of metabolomics, genomics, toxicology, and histology. Industry-leading turnaround times and state-of-the-art equipment and diagnostic solutions allow Luxor to provide personalized service, accurate testing, and innovative functional reporting. For more information about Luxor Scientific and our full test offering, please visit www.luxorscientific.org Media Contact: Kristina Loughrey kristina@ klcoms.com 864.360.5848SOURCE: Luxor PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 15:01:53 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 487 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Daniela Marten Rothe, a prominent figure in the Costa Rican art scene, joins forces with MIRAME Fine Art. This exciting collaboration aims to support Marten Rothe as her career gains international momentum and to elevate the profile of Costa Rican painting within the broader Latin American art scene.SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 /MIRAME Fine Art, the premier online Costa Rican art gallery dedicated to supporting the nation's finest artists, celebrates the work of artist Marten Rothe. Promoting the nation's rich cultural heritage, MIRAME Fine Art connects artists with art lovers worldwide.Daniela Marten Rothe, Sensi Sprout Oil on Canvas Eroticism and Feminine EnergyMarten Rothe's paintings explore themes of eroticism, tropicalism, and feminine energy, drawing inspiration from Anais Nin and artists, such as Georgia O'Keeffe. Rooted in Costa Rica's tropical environment, her subjects often feature flora, leaves, petals, creating a sensual dialogue between nature and sensuality.The Hatching GoddessesThe 'Hatching Goddess' series represents a unique exploration of life cycles and creation. Each painting in this series is approached as a cosmic egg, embodying themes of birth and renewal. The incorporation of clay and other raw materials into the canvases, along with techniques such as cutting holes to reveal underlying layers, creates a textured, dynamic connection between the artwork and the viewer.Sensual Tropical Limbic: Interplay of Nature and SpiritualityIn the 'Sensual Tropical Limbic' series, Marten Rothe uses a vibrant palette and bold, erotic floral forms. These works, which often include elements of Costa Rica's flora as well as religious iconography, address issues of female sexual oppression. This series exemplifies her commitment to depicting the complexities of female experience through her art.Advocacy for Female ArtistsA Fine Arts graduate from the University of Costa Rica, Marten Rothe has garnered critical acclaim, including first prize at the CROMA Biennial in 2022. Beyond her personal achievements, she is a founding member of 'Quiero Pintar,' an initiative advocating for the recognition of living female artists.Her efforts highlight the importance of female representation and recognition in the art world. Her art speaks to the primal, sexual aspects of human existence, highlighting the transformative potential of feminine power.Invitation to Collect and EngageAs Marten Rothe's work gains international recognition, MIRAME Fine Art invites you to explore her vision of Costa Rican art traditions and engage with her exploration of femininity and the human condition, all within the broader context of Central American art.A Strategic CollaborationMIRAME Fine Art and Marten Rothe are collaborating to elevate the global visibility of Costa Rican art. This partnership highlights the importance of Costa Rican erotic painting and encourages collectors to immerse themselves in the dynamic and evolving landscape of Latin American art.For further inquiries and acquisitions, visit MIRAME Fine Art's website.Contact InformationBelinda Seppings Co-Founderbelinda@ miramefineart.com +447821591397SOURCE: MIRAME Fine ArtView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 00:20:22 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 338 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Moon Palace Jamaica offers guests the chance to book a room for 5 nights and enjoy a second room for freeMIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Moon Palace Jamaicahas just rolled out an unprecedented deal for all-inclusive stays in the beautiful bay of Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Guests who book one room will get one free* at this stunning beachfront resort, along with exclusive benefits.Moon Palace Jamaica Swimming Pool Sunset in Moon Palace JamaicaTwo-for-one rooms in Ocho Rios, JamaicaThis once-in-a-blue-moon offer at Moon Palace Jamaica is for guests who book 5 nights or more and stay between September 1 and November 22, 2024. Once they have booked their first room, they will be entitled to a complimentary room for the same dates and same number of nights as their first room. The complimentary room will be in a Deluxe Resort View for a maximum occupancy of two adults and one child.Additional benefits for direct bookingsGuests can also combine this offer with our current Free Stays for Kids & Teens** offer at Moon Palace Jamaica, which is applicable to 17-year-olds and under, Plus, direct bookings will also include Free Roundtrip Airport Transfers.*** Guests can pack their bags for Ocho Rios, and take off for unlimited gourmet cuisine, premium drinks, luxury amenities, 24-hour room service, non-motorized watersports and more, all included.Moon Palace Jamaica is a luxury all-inclusive resort ofThe Palace Company, a name that is synonymous with luxury and unparalleled hospitality. The Palace Company stands at the forefront of the industry, continually redefining the standards of opulence and guest satisfaction.Booking period: July 24-August 30, 2024* Offer applicable exclusively at Moon Palace Jamaica. Minimum 5-night stay required. The last day of checkout must be completed by November 23, 2024. **Kids and Teens offer applies to children up to age 17, verifiable during stay. ***Transfers are on a shared basis. Only applicable to direct bookings through our websites ( www.moonpalace.com) . Additional terms and conditions apply.Contact InformationVladimir OrtizVice President of E-commerce & Digital Marketingvlortiz@ thepalacecompany.com SOURCE: The Palace CompanyView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 15:01:32 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 343 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Patriot Software is 2024's "Most Affordable Payroll Solution" according to USA TODAY Blueprint.CANTON, OH / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / USA TODAY Blueprint has released its " Best Payroll Software in 2024 " list and named Patriot Software the "Most Affordable Payroll Solution." This honor exemplifies Patriot's commitment to providing tremendous value to millions of American businesses."In everything we do, we start with the customer and work our way backwards," says Kyle Dreger, Patriot CEO. "Whether it's a mom-and-pop shop or medium-to-large business, our whole team tries to deliver tremendous value across all products and services. This starts with our great software, paired with our fabulous support, and ends with truly affordable prices." Patriot received the title "Most Affordable Payroll Solution" after USA TODAY Blueprint's Small Business Editorial team compared pricing, features, and customer reviews from top leaders in thepayroll softwareindustry.USA TODAY Blueprint gave Patriot a 4.7 out of 5-star rating, saying, "For the price, it's hard to beat the simplicity and efficiency Patriot provides its payroll customers." The online newspaper also highlighted a few of Patriot's value-added features such as unlimited payrolls and a free employee portal.Since launching over 20 years ago, Patriot hasn't been shy about its mission-born from its founder's startup struggles-of makingaccountingand payroll affordable for American businesses.Twenty years later, Patriot continues to do what's right for business owners nationwide by rolling out in-demand features and maintaining its unmatched USA-based support, all while keeping prices low.Learn more about Patriot Software by visitingwww.patriotsoftware.com ###About Patriot Software:Patriot Software is disrupting theaccountingandpayrollindustries with its low prices, highest customer reviews, and award-winning software. Patriot offers cloud-based accounting, payroll, HR, and time & attendance solutions that help American businesses with up to 500 employees simplify their administrative tasks. Patriot's USA-based customer support team provides a personal touch that most software companies lack today. The company has been serving tens of thousands of businesses nationwide since 2002.For more information, please contact:Rachel Blakely-GrayContent Manager marketing@ patriotsoftware.com SOURCE: PATRIOT SOFTWARE LLC PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 15:01:47 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 461 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 PHOENIX, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / PuroAir , one of the most trusted names in air purification and healthy indoor air quality, today announced that PuroAir has been nominated by Newsweek for " Best Air Purifier " in the2024 Newsweek Readers' Choice Awards . The Newsweek Readers' Choice Awards celebrate the best consumer products and services in various categories based on the preferences and votes of its readers.Newsweek Readers' Choice Award nominees are chosen by industry experts and editorial contributors. PuroAir was selected for its powerful and high-efficiency air cleaning capabilities. PuroAir captures up to 99% of airborne pollutants, such as dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and smoke, including wildfire smoke produced by recent, record-breaking wildfire seasons. PuroAir is lab tested and proven to capture particulate matter as small as 0.1 microns. PuroAir has been praised for its compact design, ease of use, and powerful performance. It features multiple fan speeds, a sleep mode, and an automatic air quality sensor that adjusts the purifier's operation based on detected pollutants."We are honored by Newsweek's recognition of PuroAir by nominating us in the best air purifier category. In 2021, when we launched PuroAir, our goal was to develop an air purifier equipped with a powerful filter that made stronger indoor air filtration accessible to everyone," said Robby Choueiri, CEO of PuroAir. "This nomination is a testament to our team's dedication to delivering superior air purification products and innovations." To develop advanced air purification technology, PuroAir works with its Scientific Advisory Board to drive innovation and ensure PuroAir products meet the highest standards. Voting for the 2024 Newsweek Magazine Readers' Choice Awards is open to the public, and voting takes place on theNewsweek website . The 2024 nominees were officially announced on August 1, voting runs from August 1 through August 29. The winners will be announced in September. To vote for PuroAir in the Newsweek Readers' Choice Awards, please visit: https://www.newsweek.com/readerschoice/best-air-purifier The PuroAir 240 air purifier cleans rooms up to 1,115 sq ft in just 67 minutes and filters up to 99% of airborne pollutants, such as dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and smoke.The PuroAir 400 air purifier cleans rooms up to 2,145 sq ft in just 60 minutes and filters up to 99% of airborne pollutants, such as dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and smoke.About PuroAir PuroAir is a leader in delivering superior air purification products. As one of the most trusted names in air purification and healthy indoor air quality, PuroAir is committed to innovation and advancements in air purification technology. PuroAir is dedicated to promoting environmentally sustainable business practices and supporting communities through health-focused philanthropy.Follow PuroAir PuroAir on InstagramPuroAir on FacebookPuroAir on YouTubePuroAir Media Contacts Kelly D'Elena, Marketing866-552-9322kelly@ getpuroair.com Brian McDermott, Public Relations215-205-3787brian@ brianpr.co SOURCE: PuroAir PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 17:01:16 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1004 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 VANCOUVER, BC and HONG KONG / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Reyna Silver Corp. (TSXV:RSLV)(OTCQX:RSNVF)(FRA:4ZC) ("Reyna Silver") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an Option Agreement (the "Agreement") with Aulode LLC. ("Aulode") on the Union Hill Project (the "Project") located in Eureka County, Nevada. Drilling commences imminently targeting the framework of this extensive system including identifying the level of oxidation, major potentially mineralized structures and critical ore-system exploration vectors.The Union patented claim group has 10 newly staked claims (81 hectares) at the Company's 70% optioned Gryphon Summit project in Eureka/Elko Co, Nevada. Adding this to the recently announced Mineral Hill claim group acquisition (SeePress Release of August 1, 2024 ) completes Reyna Silver's control of the 12,058.98 hectares of Gold, Silver and Critical Metals potential identified to date atGryphon .Union Patented Claims encompass this historical high-grade Silver,-Lead-Zinc producing district. Mineralization was mined to the base of oxidation leaving the underlying sulfides untouched.Adding 233 unpatented claims (1900 hectares) means the company now controls all of the identified gold, silver and critical metals potential at Gryphon.Drilling will commence imminently- targeting the major potentially mineralized structures that define the framework of this extensive system, identifying the depth of oxidation, and critical ore-system exploration vectors."The Union patented claims were the last puzzle piece Reyna Silver needed to fully control Gryphon, providing the opportunity to take a serious look at Gryphon from new angles," said Jorge Ramiro Monroy, Reyna Silver President and CEO. "We can't wait to unleash our technical team's experience discovering major CRDs in a comprehensive attack on the entire district's combined Gold, Silver, plus Critical Metals endowment "CRD systems are continuous, zoned, polymetallic deposits and following known CRD mineralization back towards its interpreted porphyry source is a key exploration element. Historic production in the Gryphon region occurred prior to the advent of contemporary high-recovery selective flotation metallurgy and focused almost exclusively on oxidized mineralization. This means unoxidized sulfide mineralization beneath the historical production zones remains to be followed through the balance of the CRD-Skarn-Porphyry continuum model Reyna Silver follows. Reyna Silver plans to immediately use the geometry and geochemistry of the historic Union and Mineral Hill CRD workings to vector towards underlying sulfide Ag-Pb-Zn mineralization. Notably, CRDs in in this part of Nevada, like the Eureka district 70km South of Gryphon and the Cortez Camp 50km to the west, are also known for their significant gold credits, generally believed to stem from a later overprint of Carlin-type gold mineralization (SeePress Release of August 1, 2024 ). Both mineralization types are documented at Gryphon and the two mineralizing events exploited the same structural plumbing, so understanding the controls on CRD mineralization should enhance understanding the geometry of the entire system, including where concentrated Carlin-type gold may occur.Figure 1. Updated claim map of the 12,058.98 ha project with new boundaries in bold blue and previous boundaries in narrow blue. Patented Claims are delineated in reds. Union is shown in bold red and Mineral Hill on the east side in narrow red (SeePress Release of August 1, 2024 ). Selective sampling results for Silver are shown in blue with Lead in grey and Zinc in green.The Agreement:The Agreement gives Reyna Silver the right (the "FIrst Option") to earn a 100% ownership interest in the mineral rights and rights to prospect and explore the Project; and the further right (the "Second Option") to earn a 100% ownership interest in all remaining rights (including without limitation surface rights) in in the Project and to become the fee title owner of the Project.The First Option is subject to Reyna Silver making cash payments to Aulode in the aggregate amount of US$917,500 on or before August 2, 2030. The Second Option is subject to Reyna Silver making a production decision and making further cash payments to Aulode as follows:(a) US$500,000 within thirty (30) days after Reyna Silver receives all construction, environmental and other permits required in order to proceed with construction on the Project; and(b) US$2,000,000 no later than the date three months prior to the estimated date of commencement of construction on the Project.If Reyna has not made a production decision by August 2, 2030, it may extend the date for exercise of the Second Option by up to a further three years by making further cash payments of US$250,000 in respect of each such one-year.extension On exercise of the Second Option by Reyna Silver, Reyna Silver will grant Aulode a 2.5% net smelter return ("NSR") royalty over the Project. Reyna Silver will have the option to repurchase 1.25% of the 2.5% NSR royalty at any time by paying Aulode US$2,500,000.If Reyna Silver has not made a production decision by August 2, 2033, then Reyna Silver will quitclaim and transfer its rights in the Project to Aulode and Aulode will grant Reyna Silver a 2.0% NSR royalty over the Project. Aulode will have the option at any time to repurchase 1.00% of such 2.0% NSR royalty by paying Reyna Silver US$1,000,000, and to repurchase the remaining 1.00% of the 2.0% NSR royalty by paying Reyna Silver a further US$1,000,000.For Further Information, Please Contact:Bethany Terracina, VP Investor Relations bethany@ reynasilver.comwww.reynasilver.com About Reyna Silver Corp.Reyna Silver is a growth-oriented junior exploration and development company. The Company focuses on exploring for high-grade, district-scale silver deposits in Mexico and the United States. In Nevada USA, the Company has recently entered into an option to acquire 70% of the 10,300-hectare "Gryphon Summit Project" in a 50/50 partnership with Reyna Gold Corp. (TSXV:REYG). The Gryphon Project shows features indicating uniquely superimposed/overprinted Silver-Lead-Zinc-Copper Carbonate Replacement (CRD), Carlin Gold and Critical Metals mineralization. Also in Nevada, the Company is advancing its option to acquire 100% of the "Medicine Springs Project" where the Company is exploring a potentially significant Silver-Lead-Zinc-Copper CRD-skarn-Porphyry system. The Company's Mexican assets are 100% owned and include the "Guigui Project" and "Batopilas Project", both located in Chihuahua State. The Guigui Project covers the interpreted source area for the Santa Eulalia Carbonate Re PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 04:50:47 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 478 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESSWIRE / August 5, 2024 / Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have untilAugust 30, 2024to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Seritage Growth Properties ("Seritage" or the "Company") (NYSE:SRG), if they purchased the Company's securities between July 7, 2022 and May 10, 2024, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of Seritage and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-srg/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court byAugust 30, 2024 .About the LawsuitSeritage and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On August 14, 2023, the Company disclosed a "material weakness" in its internal control over financial reporting "due to a deficiency in the design of our control over the identification of impairment indicators for investments in real estate and documentation of evidence of review" related "to the failure to identify potential indicators of impairment related to development projects in a timely manner." On this news, the price of Seritage's shares fell $0.86, or 9.67%, to close at $8.03 per share on August 15, 2023, on unusually heavy trading volume.Then, on May 10, 2024, the Company released its 1Q2024 financial results, disclosing that it was "adjusting [its] pricing projections for some of [its] assets" resulting in the gross value of the Company's portfolio of assets being reduced by at least $325 million. On this news, the price of Seritage's shares fell $2.54, or 27.3%, to close at $6.78 per share on May 13, 2024, on unusually heavy trading volume.The case is He v. Seritage Growth Properties, et al., No. 1:24-cv-05007.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients - including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com CONTACT: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partnerlewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163SOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 21:16:30 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 313 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 /Monteverde & Associates PC (the "M&A Class Action Firm"), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and is investigating Dril-Quip, Inc. (NYSE:DRQ), relating to its proposed merger with Innovex Downhole Solutions, Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, Dril-Quip stockholders will own approximately 52% of the combined company on a fully diluted basis.Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/dril-quip-inc/ . It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:Do you file class actions and go to Court?When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?What cases did you recover money in and how much?About Monteverde & Associates PCOur firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholdersand we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in any of the above listed companies and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit ourwebsiteor contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail atjmonteverde@ monteverdelaw.comor by telephone at (212) 971-1341.Contact:Juan Monteverde, Esq.MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC The Empire State Building 350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740New York, NY 10118United States of America jmonteverde@ monteverdelaw.com Tel: (212) 971-1341Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC ( www.monteverdelaw.com) . Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.SOURCE: Monteverde & Associates PC PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 03:16:33 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 383 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 5, 2024 / Levi & Korsinsky notifies investors that it has commenced an investigation of Dril-Quip, Inc. ("Dril-Quip") (NYSE:DRQ) concerning possible violations of federal securities laws.On July 8, 2024, Dril-Quip disclosed in a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission that it had identified "an error in the classification of certain inventory write-downs from 2021." Specifically, the Company had "misclassified inventory write-downs from 2021 totaling approximately $67 million, including $19.3 million related to the 2018 global strategic plan and approximately $47.7 million due to the discontinuation of certain product categories under the 2021 global strategic plan. The Company classified these charges as Restructuring and other charges'; however, these charges should have been classified in Cost of sales' in the Consolidated Statement of Income (Loss) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, in accordance with ASC 420-10-S99-3. As a result, Cost of sales' was understated and Restructuring and other charges' was overstated by $67 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021 (the Affected Period')." Accordingly, Dril-Quip stated that its prior statements regarding the Affected Period "should no longer be relied upon" and will be restated. Dril-Quip further stated that "the Company's disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2023 were not effective." On this news, Dril-Quip's stock price fell $1.76 per share, or 9.9%, to close at $16.01 per share on July 9, 2024. To obtain additional information, go to:or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. either via email at jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com or by telephone at (212)363-7500.WHY LEVI & KORSINSKY: Over the past 20 years, Levi & Korsinsky LLP has established itself as a nationally-recognized securities litigation firm that has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for aggrieved shareholders and built a track record of winning high-stakes cases. The firm has extensive expertise representing investors in complex securities litigation and a team of over 70 employees to serve our clients. For seven years in a row, Levi & Korsinsky has ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report as one of the top securities litigation firms in the United States. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212)363-7500 Fax: (212)363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 00:30:55 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 632 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 HENDERSON, NV / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / TaxValet, a Fractional Sales Tax Department known for eliminating the hassle, stress, and risk of sales tax, is thrilled to announce that it is now a Certified B Corporation. As a B Corp, it's part of a global community of businesses that meet high social and environmental impact standards. This significant milestone reflects TaxValet's unwavering dedication to positively impacting its employees, clients, communities, and the planet."Becoming a B Corp aligns perfectly with our core values and mission," said Christine Pope, CEO of TaxValet. "It showcases our commitment to social and environmental responsibility, holding us to high transparency and performance standards. This certification pushes us to continuously strive for positive change, marking the beginning of an exciting journey. We are just getting started on our commitment to making a lasting, meaningful impact now and for future generations." "As a three-time cancer survivor, I founded TaxValet with a mission that transcends profit," said Alex Oxford, Founder. "Achieving B Corp certification with a score of 91 is a testament to our commitment to using business as a force for good. Our strong performance in the Workers category reflects our dedication to our team's well-being and development. This certification is not just an accolade; it's a responsibility we take seriously." The B Corp movement is about transforming the global economy to benefit everyone, everywhere, and today, the B Corp community includes thousands of companies across more than 100 countries.TaxValet scored 91 on the B Impact Assessment, surpassing the required score of 80. This score is based on five impact areas: governance, workers, environment, community, and customers.TaxValet excelled in the Workers category with a score of 36.5, demonstrating its commitment to employees' financial security, health and safety, wellness, career development, and engagement. The company's Governance score of 18.2 reflects strong ethical practices and transparency, including a 'Mission Locked' status that integrates its social and environmental commitments into the corporate structure.TaxValet donates 1% of its annual revenue to charitable causes and provides employees with three paid days of leave to volunteer in local communities. The company also offers discounted services to non-profit organizations, amplifying support for those driving change daily. In May, a company retreat was dedicated to cleaning up a local beach, emphasizing their commitment to community and environmental stewardship.In May, TaxValet organized a company retreat, dedicating a day to partnering with a local school and joining forces to clean up a nearby beach. "This experience not only strengthened our team bonds but also emphasized our commitment to giving back to the community and environment," said Alyssa Martin, VP of Client Operations.About TaxValet TaxValet is a Fractional Sales Tax Department that eliminates the hassle, stress, and risk of sales tax by doing everything for clients. Don't have the time or expertise to keep up with changing laws, deal with constant compliance headaches, and avoid costly mistakes? TaxValet does.Plus, they provide expert audit representation backed by their guarantee. Learn more at https://thetaxvalet.com/ About B Lab U.S. & CanadaB Lab U.S. & Canada is a partner in the B Global Network, a unified group of global, regional, and national organizations that power a business movement as a force for good. A historic global culture shift is underway to harness the power of business to help address society's greatest challenges. Their global network creates standards, policies, tools, and programs that shift the behavior, culture, and structure of capitalism. B Lab certifies companies - known as B Corps - who are leading the way. Their vision is an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economic system for all people and the planet.Media ContactOrganization: TaxValetContact Person Name: Alex OxfordWebsite: https://thetaxvalet.com/ Email: alex@ thetaxvalet.com Contact Number: +17204329021City: HendersonState: NevadaCountry: United StatesSOURCE: TaxValet PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-06 19:30:58 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 400 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Universal Relocations, a leading moving and shipping company, is thrilled to announce the opening of its new office in Dubai. With this strategic move, the company has reached a major milestone on its way to becoming a world leader in the shipping and moving industry.With the opening of its new office in Dubai, Universal Relocations aims to address the increasing demand for reliable and efficient moving services in the Middle East. The company's expansion plans reflect its commitment to delivering top-notch moving solutions to individuals, families, and businesses both locally and regionally.Anu Dattani, Vice President ofUniversal Relocations , said at the time, "We are delighted to strengthen our presence in the Middle East with the opening of our office in Dubai." We can better serve our clients in the area and show off our moving and shipping skills with this expansion. We're excited to give our customers in the Middle East great service and build strong relationships with them.Universal Relocations' Director of Marketing, Rehman Siddiq said, "The Middle East is a key market for us, and building a strong presence in Dubai is a natural step in our growth strategy." We're excited to bring our world-class moving services to the area and help people and businesses make the most of the complicated process of moving. Our team of skilled professionals is committed to making sure that our clients' moves go smoothly and without any stress.Universal Relocations' new office in Dubai will provide a wide range of services, such as foreign moving, domestic moving, corporate moving, storage solutions, and shipping services. Its goal is to set new standards for the moving and shipping business in the Middle East by focusing on customer happiness and struggling for excellence.Universal Relocations is a leading global moving and shipping company with a substantial presence across many countries. They offer a variety of moving solutions for individuals, families, and businesses. With a team of expert professionals and a focus on customer satisfaction, the company is dedicated to providing exceptional service.Universal Relocationsis dedicated to providing top-notchrelocation servicesand making sure that its clients' moves go smoothly and without any stress.Media Details Company Name: Universal RelocationsCity & Country: Dubai, UAE Email:contact@ universalrelocations.com Phone:US:1-888-323-7356 India: 1-800-103-7356Dubai:971-527-999-230 Website: https://universalrelocations.com/ SOURCE: Universal Relocations The federal government says the new federal medical centres in Epe, Lagos State, and Misau in Bauchi State, will each host a School of Nursing. The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Tunji Alausa, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja while presenting letters of appointment to the acting medical directors, Adeleke Kaka of FMC Epe and Rufai Dachi of FMC Misau. Mr Alausa said that the establishment of the two institutions is crucial for national development. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that President Bola Tinubu approved the establishment of three federal medical centres in the governments efforts toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The centres are the ones in Epe, Lagos State, Misau in Bauchi State and Federal Medical Centre Ikole-Ekiti in Ekiti. Mr Tinubu said that the centres would offer specialised medical care, attract skilled healthcare professionals and provide a platform for cutting-edge medical research in the country. He added that the centres would positively impact the entire region and contribute to improving the countrys national healthcare system. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Mr Alausa said, This milestone reflects the Tinubu administrations commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality across Nigeria. This approval further demonstrates the presidents passion and commitment to ensuring that Nigerians receive the best healthcare at an affordable cost. It also aims to increase the much-needed human resources for health in our country. The minister explained that the centres were designed to alleviate the strain on existing healthcare facilities by providing tertiary care to over one million residents in the regions. Previously, citizens had to travel hundreds of miles to Lagos for such services, he noted. He commended the Lagos State Government for cooperating and transferring the Lagos General Hospital to the federal government, facilitating the establishment of FMC Epe. The federal government is committed to full support and funding to ensure rapid development of infrastructure and services at these centres, he said. He stressed that the establishment of the FMCs represents a significant step toward realising Mr Tinubus vision of a healthcare system that caters for the needs of all Nigerians. He explained that these facilities are expected to be fully operational before the end of the year, offering comprehensive care and reducing the necessity for long-distance travel for medical services. This is a testament to what President Tinubu set out to do for us in this country. The president is reforming every sector like the economy, power, infrastructure, food security, agriculture, security and energy. But now, I will focus on our sector, the health sector. We all know the problem we have with human resources for health. Were tackling that head-on by doubling the number of people were enrolling in medical schools, pharmacy schools, dentistry schools, medical science schools, and nursing schools. Weve almost quadrupled the admission of students into nursing schools. He disclosed that before Mr Tinubus administration, the country was enrolling no fewer than 28,000 nursing students annually, but now, more than 64,000 students have enrolled annually, and 100,000 students are expected to enrol by the end of the year. Were doing this to give our young men and women the opportunity to become nurses and live a decent life. Addressing the issue of nurses migration, he said, Yes, we know that some nurses have migrated. We cannot stop people from migrating, but we have to leverage our population. We have a population of 220 million people. We can train more, and as people go, others will stay. Even those migrating have maintained cultural ties, sending money to their families, which is another source of foreign direct investment. More importantly, as we strengthen our healthcare system and improve security, those who have left will want to return. He reiterated the Federal Ministry of Healths (FMoH) commitment to work with stakeholders to ensure the success of the FMCs. The medical directors expressed delight over the development, saying that the FMCs would consolidate the gains provided by the facilities. They thanked the president and the ministry for the appointment, assuring that they would not disappoint. They promised to do their best to improve healthcare and justify the confidence reposed in them. Earlier, Jimoh Salaudeen, the director of Hospital Services, FMoH, said the ministry had earlier approached state governors where the three FMCs are sited to identify suitable sites for the centres, in line with the directive of the president. He said, We assessed the proposed locations with the governors support, and to facilitate the take-off of these institutions, we need to appoint acting medical directors. Therefore, we present Kaka and Dachi to the minister of state to receive their appointment letters, having reviewed their CVs and found them suitable for the positions. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Police Command in Kaduna State says it has detained 39 suspected hoodlums including the tailor producing Russian flags during the #EndBadGovernance protests in the state. The commands spokesperson, Mansir Hassan, confirmed the incidents in a statement issued on Monday in Kaduna. Mr Hassan said, The command has successfully detained 39 suspects who exploited the protests. He said these individuals, seen displaying Russian and Chinese flags, mobilised and engaged in the vandalisation of private and public properties. Among the damaged properties were a Hilux vehicle belonging to KADVS, a Toyota Yaris owned by a journalist, and the KASTLEA office in Zone 6, Zaria, which was set on fire. The police, in collaboration with other security agencies, intervened to restore order. During the confrontation, the suspects became hostile and resorted to using stones, catapults, and other weapons. The police managed to calm the situation with the minimal use of tear gas. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later In total, 39 suspects were nabbed at the scene, including a tailor who was sewing the foreign flags for the group, he said. Mr Hassan said the police recovered 38 Russian flags, one Chinese flag, two catapults with a bag of stones, and various vandalised items. According to him, the state Commissioner of Police (CP), Audu Dabigi, commended his officers for their professional conduct. He said Mr Dabigi has warned all the residents to adhere to the imposed curfew. He assured that violators will face arrest and prosecution in accordance with the law. The CP also appeals to all the citizens to cooperate with the Police and other security agencies during this critical period. The curfew is in place to protect lives and property and ensure the swift restoration of peace in Kaduna State. In a separate statement, Mr Hassan also debunked the rumour that a police Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) was hijacked by protesters in the state. The Command wishes to address the recent video circulating on social media, alleging that an Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) was hijacked by the protesters. The command wishes to debunk this rumour and provide the public with the correct details of the incident. Mr Hassan said the video in question depicted a situation where the driver of the APC was confronted by a large group of protesters. In the face of escalating tension, the driver made a professional and commendable decision to avoid the use of live ammunition. Instead, he employed a tactical maneuver to safely escape the scene, ensuring the safety of both the protesters and the officers involved. It is important to stress that at no point was the APC hijacked by hoodlums,he said. According to him, the vehicle and its personnel remained under the control of the command throughout the incident. He said Commissioner Dabigi urged the good people of the state to continue to abide by the law and maintain peace and order. We appreciate the support and cooperation of the public in these challenging times and remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents, he said. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Christopher Musa, has said that the military and security agencies are after those behind the call for undemocratic change of government. Mr Musa, a general, said this on Tuesday during a combined news conference by the heads of security agencies and service chiefs at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja. He said the military knew that some protesters calling for regime changes were sponsored, adding that the armed forces and other security agencies were trailing them to bring them to book. I want to appreciate Nigerians for their understanding, for their commitment to upholding the law and order. We have had issues in the past few days, but you can see that people have seen reason for us not to continue with the destruction, to stop the looting, to stop giving opportunities for others to subvert our nation and to destroy our nation. They have also seen reasons to join hands together with the security forces to make Nigeria better. We want to assure them we on this side that we are fully committed to Nigeria, we love the country, we are mindful of the fact that we have been equipped and so we are duty bound to protect the country. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later We are only after those that are against the states, not those that are innocent. So I want to make that very clear, and we will continue to work together as a team to support Mr President in achieving his mandate of peace and tranquillity in our dear country, Nigeria, he said. The CDS called for the collaboration of all other agencies to ensure that they achieved success and called for calm, mediation, discussion, and dialogue towards national unity and cohesion as one great country. He said the Nigerian military was people-centric in all its activities, adding they were not interested in anybody being killed or injured or being prosecuted, except those that have crossed the line. Mr Musa said the joint news conference was an opportunity to show that the military and all the security agencies were working as a team in line with the mandate of the president. So this morning, were here to give you some brief on the issue on ground, what we are doing, and then to have interactions with members of the media, he added. On his part, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Taoreed Lagbaja, said the main operational commitment of the army was to deploy resources to combat the protests that have turned into riots to ensure sustainable peace in the country. Mr Lagbaja, a lieutenant general, said the army under his command was more concerned about bringing the country to a state of sustainable peace and security, adding that attention had not been diverted from its main operational commitment to combat terrorism and banditry. I checked the number of patrols that troops conduct, the number of ambushes that are undertaken on a daily basis, the number of violent insurgents that have been eliminated, incapacitated and other indices, and it has not dropped by whatever measure. Also we have continued to expand the frontier of peace and security in Borno state. Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are being returned to Kukawa and some other places as I speak to you, which are indices of return to peace and stability. So the troops are not relenting in their operational commitment in the field on our contingency plan in the event that the situation degenerates. I want to also assure you that our estimates looking into the future suggest that the situation will not degenerate but we need the cooperation of every stakeholder in Nigeria to achieve that, he said. The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Emmanuel Ogalla, said the navy had continued to work with other services and security agencies to ensure safety and security in the maritime domain. Mr Ogalla, a vice admiral reiterated the commitment of the navy to sustain its operations in the Niger Delta to ensure that the nation meets its oil production capacity He said the operations had led to an increase in oil output and boosted the revenue generation from oil that would help the nation to meet the needs of the citizens. The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Hasan Abubakar, an air Marshal, said the Nigerian Air Force remained committed to ensure successful operations in all operational engagements of the armed forces. He said the military was mindful of its commitment to defending the territorial integrity of the nation. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the chiefs of army, navy, air force and defence as well as Inspector-General of Police and representative of the Director-General of the Department of State Service (DSS), made presentations. Also in attendance are the Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller-General of Nigeria Immigration Service, and Commander-General of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Bauchi State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew on the Katagum Local Government Area after the #EndBadGovernance protest turned violent in Azare town. On Monday, the protesters looted and razed parts of the local government secretariat in Azare, the headquarters of the Katagum council area. The protesters marched on the streets of Azare town, chanting anti-government slogans. The hoodlums reportedly targeted the residences of some prominent politicians in Azare, attempting to burn them. Following the violence, the state government announced a 24-hour curfew in the council area. The secretary to the state government, Ibrahim Kashim, said the curfew was due to the deteriorating security situation in Azare and its environs. The government said the violent protest led to the destruction of public properties, stealing and harassment of innocent people. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The official said Governor Bala Mohammed approved the imposition of the curfew with immediate effect to address the situation in the area. The governor has directed all security agencies to wade into the matter and ensure that the hoodlums are fished out and brought to book, calling on law-abiding citizens to cooperate with security agencies at this trying moment, Mr Kashim said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has urged youths in the Niger Delta region to take advantage of the commissions special training programme to acquire entrepreneurship skills. The Chairperson of the NDDC Governing Board, Chiedu Ebie, made the call at the inauguration of the NDDC Youth Internship Scheme in Port Harcourt on Monday. It would be recalled that on 31 July, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, disclosed the federal governments approval of a N50,000 monthly stipend to 10,000 Niger Delta youths for 12 months. Mr Ebie stated that selected participants would receive N50,000 monthly to gain skills in various fields such as automobile, craftsmanship, medicine, maritime, agriculture and technology, among others. The NDDC Youth Internship Scheme aims to equip our youths with the skills to become entrepreneurs and employable. Niger Delta youths can register for the training for free, while eligibility is limited to individuals aged 45 years and below. There is an age limit; therefore, pensioners should not falsely reduce their age by 10 years to qualify for the programme, he said. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Mr Ebie said that measures had been put in place to detect such sharp practices and that provisions had been made for physically challenged persons. Each participant will select an internship location, and we will connect them with businesses seeking interns. A monitoring, evaluation and learning framework will be established to ensure transparency and measure the programmes success, he said. The NDDC Managing Director, Samual Ogbuku, commended the youths for refusing to participate in the ongoing EndBadGovernance protest. He said the empowerment programme was not an afterthought but a carefully planned initiative captured in the commissions N1.9 trillion annual budget. Mr Ogbuku said that the President Bola Tinubu-led administration was committed to the development of the Niger Delta region. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The FCT Chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has urged President Bola Tinubu to address issues which led to the nationwide protest. The associations chairman, Charles Ugwuanyi, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday. According to him, the issue that led to the protest is hunger, occasioned by the cost of food that is biting Nigerians hard. We are calling on the president to make the economy friendly so the Nigerian will be able to put food on their table, he said. He also urged Mr Tinubu to review the security situation in the country, which he said was seriously affected by so many things. In recent times, President Tinubus desire to rescue the country from so many issues that have bedevilled it has thrown severe hardship on Nigerians. In spite of his efforts, the hunger and unbearable conditions in many parts of the country persisted, fueling public discontent. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The dire economic situation has led many to view protests as a necessary outlet for their frustrations; such action also threatens the national security of the country, he said. Mr Ugwuanyi said Nigerians were hungry and the government should wake up to its responsibility and rescue the country. Government must address the main issue of hunger and cost of food. The president should address all these challenges and other economy-related issue like the cost of fuel that is injecting pains on the people, Mr Ugwuanyi said. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The regional and political bloc of West African countries, ECOWAS, has condemned the violence that has trailed the #Endbadgovernance protests in Nigeria. In a statement on Monday, the bloc said it was closely monitoring the protests and deeply regretted reports of violence. ECOWAS described as unfortunate the death of some protesters as well as alleged looting and destruction of public and private properties. The commission said it recognises citizens right to peaceful protests, as guaranteed by the 2001 ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. However, it urges the protesters and all stakeholders to heed President Bola Tinubus call for inclusive dialogue for the resolution of all grievances and the preservation of peace and security in Nigeria and the ECOWAS region at large. On Sunday, the president called for an end to the demonstrations and invited the young Nigerians for dialogue. But he has not made concrete offers in response to the protesters demands. Several groups have also urged the protesters to accede to the presidents overture. As of Tuesday, the protests have slowed down in Abuja and Lagos. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The curfew in some northern cities has also been slowed down. ECOWAS extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and sympathizes with the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria over the losses in the protests. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigerian government will not tolerate calls for coups and the waving of foreign flags by some protesters, defence chief Christopher Musa said after a meeting between security chiefs and President Bola Tinubu on Monday. Mr Musa said the meeting discussed the calls for a coup and the waving of Russian flags by some protesters in some northern states like Kaduna and Kano. We are warning in clear terms and the president has also said we should convey this, that we will not accept anybody, any individual flying any foreign flag in Nigeria, the army general said. That is a treasonable offence, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So nobody shall allow himself to be used by any individual. On the calls for a coup, Mr Musa said, Nigeria is a sovereign nation. Nigeria is a democratic nation. All security agencies are here to defend democracy and ensure that democracy continues to strive. We will not accept anyone pushing or taking any action, seemingly or for whatever reason, to want to push for any change of government. PREMIUM TIMES reported how some protesters in Kaduna raised Russian flags and called for a coup on Monday, a day after some had made similar calls in Kano. The protesters were taking advantage of the #EndBadGovernance protests across Nigeria where protesters are calling for economic and political reforms. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The #Endbadgovernance protests started on 1 August and are billed to last for 10 days. Nigerians chanting we are hungry marched through the streets of several cities across the country. Five states, Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, Borno and Yobe, all in the northern parts of the country, imposed a 24-hour curfew after the protests turned violent. Many have since relaxed the curfew by some hours while Kaduna imposed its 24-hour curfew on Kaduna and Zaria cities on Monday. The police on Thursday used force to disperse peaceful protesters in some cities while protesters in other cities went violent and looted properties. Similar situations occurred on the other days of the protests. The demonstrators were protesting the high cost of living, food shortages, and government mismanagement. Many marchers called on President Tinubu to address systemic corruption and reverse controversial economic reforms that he passed last year. The president addressed the nation on Sunday but did not meet any of the demands of the protesters. The rage has so far left about 13 people dead nationwide, according to Amnesty International. But the police have insisted that only seven died while also blaming the fatalities on terrorists, a local vigilante and a reckless driver who ran his car into a crowd. READ ALSO: Protesters off Kano streets as soldiers patrol major markets More than 600 people have been arrested and the army has expressed readiness to help in stopping the protests if they turn violent. Weve said clearly that the military is going to step in when it is out of hand, and you can see that for people supervising elements to push individuals to carry Russian flags in Nigeria, that is crossing the red line and we will not accept that, Mr Musa said on Monday. He said some of those carrying the Russian flags were kids and security agencies are working to identify their sponsors. For those of them flying flags and if youll see a lot of them are kids being pushed to do that. Were following up with those sponsoring them. The military general added: Initially, when the riot started they said it was a peaceful riot but we have realised that there are individuals that are willing to take advantage of it to cause mayhem. Criminals have taken over, a lot of looting taking place, stealing and all sorts happening. In Abuja, PREMIUM TIMES reported that the protest has been largely peaceful and demonstrators have been confined in one location (Moshood Abiola Stadium). Yet the operatives of the State Security Services (SSS) and the police still fired tear gas and suspected live ammunition to disperse protesters and journalists who were covering the protests. Mondays security meeting indicates that the government is concerned that the protests could escalate and is making moves to calm the situation including deploying soldiers. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for evidence of human rights abuses perpetrated against any Nigerian, including journalists and even law enforcement agents, during the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests for investigation and necessary actions. The Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Anthony Ojukwu, made this call on Monday as he lamented the use of force to disperse protesters during the protest, which began on 1 August. A statement from the NHRC said Mr Ojukwu described the attitude of law enforcement agents as an infringement on the fundamental human rights of Nigerians. He also called on law enforcement agencies to respect the rule of engagement and adhere to international standards on policing protest. At the NHRC, we will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary steps to ensure that human rights are protected and promoted in Nigeria, Mr Ojukwu said. In the meantime, the NHRC is calling on all well-meaning Nigerians who have credible evidence or information of the violation of rights of protesters or of law enforcement agents or of the media or of innocent citizens to call NHRC Toll free number 6472 or send the information or evidence to the following addresses, the statement said. The other channels provided by the NHRC for submitting such evidence or information of rights abuses are an email address infor@nigeriarights.org, the physical address of the Executive Secretary of the commission at No 19 Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja, the commissions Facebook handle NhrcNigeriaonline, and its X handle @NhrcNigeria. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later On 31 July, the eve of the protests, the NHRC issued a protest advisory to the government, law enforcement agencies and citizens to ensure hitch-free demonstrations. The commission also expressed its commitment to monitoring the protests while cautioning security operatives against harassment of protesters. However, despite the advisory, the #EndBadGovernance protest, which started peacefully in some states, turned violent in some states where looting of stores and killing of citizens were recorded. In states like Borno, Kano, and Kaduna, the state governments declared a curfew to curtail violence. The police have arrested, harassed and tear-gassed journalists and peaceful protesters during the protests. On Saturday, operatives of the State Security Service (SSS) shot at journalists at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja. PREMIUM TIMES reported that the NHRC issued a press statement condemning the act of violence on the second day of the protests. In the statement, the commission issued an ultimatum to the Inspector-General of Police to probe and sanction its officers who harassed journalists. The #EndBadGovernance protest started on 1 August, demanding drastic action by President Bola Tinubu to address the hardship, the rising cost of living and generally bad governance in the country. The protesters have demanded the reversal of policies like the removal of fuel subsidies. They also called for cutting down the cost of governance to reduce the squandering of scarce public funds. They are also aggrieved by the lack of sensitivity of public officers accused of feeding fat on public funds while urging the rest of the citizens to tighten their belts to cope with the fallout of Mr Tinubus economic policies. President Tinubu addressed Nigerians on Sunday, appealing to the protesters to suspend their demonstrations and embrace dialogue instead. Mr Tinubu also enumerated the efforts of his administration to address the economic challenges. Read the full statement here. #ENDBADGOVERNANCE PROTEST: NHRC CONDEMNS CONTINUOUS USE OF FORCE BY LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES As the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protest enters day 5, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr Tony Ojukwu OFR SAN, has again Condemned the continuous Violation of the Rights to Peaceful Protest and assembly, Freedom of Expression and the Press as well as other associated rights by Law Enforcement Agencies. According to him, the recent dispersal of protesters and journalists using excessive force, resulting in injuries of several persons, is unacceptable and a clear infringement on the fundamental human rights of Nigerians. The NHRC Boss said citizens have the right to peacefully assemble and to express their grievances as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and other International Human Rights Instruments Nigeria has signed and ratified. Speaking further, Ojukwu said Journalists also have the right to carry out their constitutional duties as the watchdog of the society without fear or intimidation According to him, these rights are essential to a democratic society and should be respected and protected by Law Enforcement Agencies. The Chief Human Rights Officer of the country urged Law Enforcement Agencies to respect the rule of engagement and adhere to international standards on policing protests. We call on the relevant authorities to investigate these incidents and hold perpetrators accountable. He assured that At the NHRC, we will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary steps to ensure that human rights are protected and promoted in Nigeria. In the meantime, the NHRC is calling on all well-meaning Nigerians who have credible evidence or information of the violation of rights of protesters or of, law enforcement agents or of, the media or of innocent citizens to call the NHRC Toll free number 6472 or send the information or evidence to the following addresses: 1. infor@nigeriarights.org 2. The Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission, No 19 Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja. 3. Facebook: NhrcNigeriaonline 4. X: @NhrcNigeria 5. call Toll free numbers: 6472 Obinna Nwakonye Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Some experts have called for robust mechanisms at the local government level to ensure transparency and accountability, in light of the new local government funding structure ordered by the Supreme Court. The experts made the recommendation on Monday at the policy dialogue organised by Agora Policy, an Abuja-based think tank, in partnership with the BudgIT Foundation, Yiaga Africa, the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity, Premium Times, and The Cable. The dialogue, themed Enthroning Accountability in Local Governance in Nigeria, was held at the Shehu YarAdua Centre in Abuja. The experts, who were members of a panel of discussants at the event were Remi Aiyede, a professor of political institutions at the University of Ibadan; Samson Itodo, executive director of Yiaga Africa; executive director of Invictus Africa, Bukky Shonibare; and the Acting Director General of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Salawu Ozigi, who represented the President of ALGON, Aminu Maifata. The session was moderated by Nabillah Usman of Radio Now. The dialogue was organised in response to the 11 July ruling of the Supreme Court, which authorised direct disbursement of federation allocations to the local government areas in the country. The court also stripped the state governors of the power to dissolve elected local government councils and replace them with caretaker committees. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Panel discussion Speaking on the latest developments in the local government system, Mr Itodo explained that the local government autonomy granted by the Supreme Court is insufficient without transparency and accountability. He said there is a need for citizen engagement, citing the case of Peoples Assembly as a model for participation in democracy. While financial autonomy has been granted to local government, it is insufficient. The real question is: Who is setting the priorities for the local governments in terms of the budget and the actions that local councils take? Mr Itodo said. In her submission, Mrs Shonibare said the gender component has not been given the necessary attention it deserves. She highlighted the decline in the number of women in elective positions. In 2015, the percentage of female representation at the local government level stood at 3.6 per cent. Invictus Africa did a survey and found out that there are 19 states with elected chairpersons, and within the 19 states, there are 355 chairpersons; only 16 are women. This sums up to just four per cent female representation. From 2015 to date, theres only a 0.4 per cent improvement in female representation at the local government level, which is far from the 35 per cent inclusion we are asking for, she said. Mr Ozigi assured the audience that ALGON is working to ensure that funds transferred to the local governments do not find their way into the pockets of individuals. We are sure and ready to provide a financial framework for the 774 local governments to work with. We need to give them a template in terms of budgetary provisions and preparations. They need to know and follow what the federal and state governments do in terms of proper bookkeeping and accounting systems, annual audits, domestic reports from time to time, and independent audits by institutions responsible for financial crimes so that more funding is allocated and their responsibility is discharged within the law establishing the local government, he said. Speaking on human capacity at the level of the local governments, Mr Ozigi admitted that some of the local governments may not have the needed manpower, stating that there is a need to develop the capacity of the civil servants at the local government level. Were watching EFCC In his welcome remarks, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olaonipekun Olukoyede, who was represented by the Director/Coordinator, Special Duties, Friday Ebelo, said the commission has its searchlight on the administrators of the local government. He said there are major elements that must be established for the local governments to function as intended. Good governance encompasses three essential elements: accountability, transparency, and citizen participation. For these elements to be effective, we need dedicated and development-minded individuals to manage local government administrations, he said. Earlier in his opening remarks, the Executive Director of Agora Policy, Waziri Adio, said the level of trust in local government administration has declined significantly in the past couple of years. Only 28 per cent of citizens trusted local government administration, down from 58 per cent in 2000, Mr Adio said while citing data from Barometre. He also called for increased awareness, engagement, and accountability, adding that This requires vertical, horizontal, and diagonal accountability mechanisms. Some of the guests who spoke at the event included a former Minister of Youths and Sports, Bolaji Abdulahi and the Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Interview: China plays important role in mediating peace, providing aid for Gaza, says UNRWA official Xinhua) 08:35, August 06, 2024 Humanitarian aid supplies to Gaza provided by the Chinese government wait for loading in Cairo, Egypt, Nov. 27, 2023. (Xinhua/Sui Xiankai) "China has consistently called for a cease-fire, and this is very important. China has also supported the agency, has made a note of the fact that there has been misinformation and disinformation against the agency, which we really appreciate, because the agency has been called out and attacked for quite some time." RAMALLAH, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- China has played a "very important role" in peace efforts and the delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of the Gaza Strip, a United Nations (UN) official has said. "I would like to thank China for its strong support to UNRWA and to the humanitarian sector in the Middle East," said Antonia Marie De Meo, deputy commissioner-general for Operational Support of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), during a recent interview with Xinhua in Ramallah. Last week, China donated 3 million U.S. dollars to UNRWA to support its emergency humanitarian efforts in Gaza. De Meo said China's new donation will provide financial support to UNRWA, and it will go to the people of Gaza. "It will go to the staff and to the healthcare sector in order to be able to provide lifesaving medicines and assistance to the people of Gaza. So the financial support from China is very important," she said. With the outbreak of the war in Gaza last October, some 154 UNRWA facilities including schools, training centers, warehouses and health centers were transformed into emergency shelters for displaced people, UNRWA said in a press release in August. Thousands of UNRWA staff, who themselves have been displaced multiple times, and over 200 of whom have been killed, continue to deliver critical services at the agency's health centers that remain operational, it added. Apart from financial support, De Meo added, political support from China is also very important. "China has consistently called for a cease-fire, and this is very important. China has also supported the agency, has made a note of the fact that there has been misinformation and disinformation against the agency, which we really appreciate, because the agency has been called out and attacked for quite some time," she said. In late July, Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the UN, said in remarks at a UN Security Council briefing on the situation in the Middle East that UNRWA is the mainstay of humanitarian assistance in Gaza. China is firmly opposed to attempts to attack and discredit UNRWA and hamper the work of UNRWA's mandate implementation, he said. During the interview, De Meo told Xinhua that she would like to commend China for the role it has played in the Beijing Declaration and being able to bring Palestinian factions together to discuss a potential cease-fire. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, attends the closing ceremony of a reconciliation dialogue among Palestinian factions and witnesses the signing of a declaration on ending division and strengthening unity by 14 Palestinian factions, in Beijing, capital of China, July 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan) At the invitation of the Chinese side, high-level representatives of 14 Palestinian factions held a reconciliation dialogue in Beijing from July 21 to 23 and inked the Beijing Declaration on Ending Division and Strengthening Palestinian National Unity, which many consider would create precious hope for peace and stability in the Middle East. "This part of China's political leadership role in calling for a cease-fire and actually making that a reality by hosting the Beijing Declaration" is important, De Meo said. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Press Release August 6, 2024 Bong Go urges PNP to uphold professionalism and remain free from politics as he questions alleged excessive force in operation at KOJC Compound During a Senate Committee on Public Order hearing on Monday, August 5, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go raised concerns regarding the Philippine National Police's (PNP) alleged use of excessive force during a police operation within the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) compound in Davao City. Go emphasized the importance of adhering to operational procedures that dictate the use of only necessary and reasonable force. "Let me remind the PNP that in its operational procedures, only necessary and reasonable force should be used to accomplish the task of enforcing the law and maintaining peace and order," said Go. The operation, conducted on June 10, aimed to serve an arrest warrant against KOJC leader Apollo Quiboloy. The operation involved over 100 police officers, including units from the PNP's Special Action Force and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group. These units were dispatched to four properties owned by Quiboloy in Davao City, Samal Island, and Sarangani Province to execute the warrants. Another maneuver by the law enforcement agencies on August 3 saw SWAT personnel once again stationed in strategic locations near the KOJC compound. There was public outcry over the methods employed by the police, particularly concerns about the impact on local residents, reports of traumatized children, and disruptions in local school classes. Go highlighted that the PNP's manual explicitly states that weapons should only be used as a last resort. "The operational manual of the PNP also states that the use of weapons (is) only in lethal approach and as a last resort if the suspect is 'armed and dangerous' or if there is 'unlawful aggression or intention to cause severe injury, serious bodily harm or death to police officers and other people'," Go added. Reports of a SWAT team deployed in full combat gear causing panic among residents, especially children, and students, were particularly troubling to the senator. "Nitong nakaraang araw po, may mga reports na nakarating na meron pong mga naka-deployed po na SWAT team, PNP-SWAT team in full combat gear, naka full combat gear sila sa palibot ng central compound ng Kingdom of Jesus Christ sa Sasa, Davao City. Nagdulot ito ng panic, siyempre lalung-lalo na sa mga bata, sa mga estudyante, nagkaka-trauma po sila," Go recounted. As Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Public Order, Go questioned whether the PNP's actions reflected its motto to protect and serve. "Alam niyo naman, sir, alam na alam niyo 'yan, noong panahon ni dating Pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte na full support kami sa mga pulis, lalung lalo na po sa line of duty, nakikipagpatayan po kami sa inyo," he said. He recalled the previous administration's strong support for police officers, particularly those in the line of duty, including efforts to double their salaries. "Isa po sa isinulong natin noon na doblehin ang sweldo ng ating mga pulis, uniformed personnel. We worked with various Executive agencies and the entire Congress na maisakatuparan ang pangakong binitawan," Go recounted. "Dahil ako mismo ang nautusan ni dating Pangulong Duterte noon (bilang Special Assistant) na ipaglaban ang uniformed personnel natin at hanggang ngayon full support po kami sa inyo. Mahal na mahal po namin ang Philippine National Police, ang armed forces, ang uniformed personnel," he explained. With this, Go urged the police to maintain a non-partisan approach and adhere strictly to the rule of law, highlighting the difficult position of police officers who must follow orders from above. "Ang atin lang po ay sana maging non-partisan kayo, gawin niyo lang po ang inyong trabaho, protektahan ang karapatan ng Pilipino. Every operation should be conducted within the bounds of law," he said. He expressed his continued support for the police force but emphasized the need for fairness and sensitivity in their operations, particularly to avoid traumatizing children. "Kawawa naman po 'yung ibang pulis na no choice kundi sumunod lang po sa utos sa taas. Alam kong maraming pulis ang professionals at magagaling. Alam niyo po yun. Andito lang kami na full support pero sana po ay maging maayos, maging patas at hindi maapektuhan, lalung-lalo na ang mga bata, 'yung mga batang nato-trauma po," added Go. Finally, Go reminded the police of their duty to act correctly: "Wala naman pong terorista, hindi naman po siguro terorista ang hinahanap ninyo. Yun lang po. Maraming salamat, Mr. Chair. Pinapaalalahanan ko lang na gawin niyo po yung tama. Salamat po." The management of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced the payment of N20,000 monthly upkeep stipends to 20,371 students from six tertiary institutions across the country. According to a statement dated 5 August and signed by the agencys Director of Finance and Accounts, Ibom Uche, the beneficiaries, who are students of Bayero University, Kano; Federal University, Dutsin-Ma; University of Ilorin; University of Benin; University of Ibadan and University of Maiduguri, have begun receiving upkeep stipends for the month of July. Mr Uche said the agency is diligently working to commence the payment process for students from approximately 55 additional tertiary institutions. It is anticipated that this will be concluded within the next two weeks as the fund is committed to ensuring that all eligible students receive their stipends promptly, he said. He added that the agency remains steadfast in its mission to support the educational aspirations of Nigerian students by providing financial assistance for studies at qualifying institutions and ensuring the timely disbursement of stipends for day to day expenses. Breakdown Meanwhile, the management had earlier released the breakdown of how it disbursed the sum of N2 billion as institutional fees to the six tertiary institutions. The breakdown was released on the agencys X handle on Saturday, saying it disbursed N853 million to Bayero University, Kano; N589 million to the University of Maiduguri, and N304 million to the Federal University, Dutsin-ma, Katsina State. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The University of Ibadan got N201 million; University of Ilorin got N52 million while University of Benin got N24 million. Backstory PREMIUM TIMES reported that the Fund had earlier disbursed a total of N2.5 billion to 22,120 students across 12 tertiary institutions. This includes payment of institutional fees for N20,000 students in six institutions and upkeep stipends of N442 million for the month of July. The funds disbursements are made based on each institutions academic calendar. It was also announced that the remaining six institutions will receive their payments soon. According to the agency, the disbursements aim to ease financial burdens on students and their families, enabling them to focus on their studies. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Police officers attached to the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) from the Force Headquarters, on Sunday, visited the corporate headquarters of Media Trust Group, owners of Daily Trust, Trust TV and Trust Radio and interrogated a producer of one of the programmes of the television channel. The operatives, who drove in some vehicles at about 6 p.m. in search of one of the producers of the Daily Politics programme, Amina Ibrahim, said they were tracking a suspect, whom they said had had telephone conversations with the female producer. The officers, who initially insisted on arresting Ms Ibrahim, ultimately agreed to question her within the premises of the Media Trust Groups head office and allowed her to continue with her work, even as they said she still had more questions to answer. Daily Trusts findings revealed that the operatives were on the trail of one of the leaders of the #EndBadGovernance protests, who had, on Day 1 of the protest, appeared as a guest on Trust Television. As one of the programmes producers, Ms Ibrahim had to liaise with the protester (name withheld) to facilitate his appearance on Daily Politics on Thursday, 1 August. Daily Politics is the flagship programme of Trust TV, on which issues around politics, policy and governance are discussed with guests from diverse backgrounds. Narrating her ordeal to Daily Trust, Ms Ibrahim, who was visibly traumatised after her encounter with the police operatives, said, I received a phone call at about noon today (Sunday) from an unknown number claiming to be a dispatch rider. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later I said, Okay, from where and from who are you bringing the message to deliver to me? He said he was asked to deliver the stuff from his office. I asked him what the package was, and he said, no idea. The next thing he asked was my home address, and I told him why the person who sent him didnt give him my home address. He said he was told to ask for the address from me. However, his answer did not resonate with me, and I sensed danger! I, therefore, ended the call, got set and then went to the office, with the intention of calling him when I settled down at work. Around 2 p.m., I got to the office. I called him to ask if he knew where the Daily Trust building was located. He said yes. Then I asked him to meet me there. He called me after 30 minutes that he was outside the gate. I said Okay, and, on reaching the gate, I saw a dispatch rider, but he was just looking at me. So, I made an attempt to call the number that called me earlier. This was when I saw a different person approaching me. And within seconds, I saw many men wielding AK47 rifles! And before I could say anything, they surrounded me. The man I was talking with on the phone, who I presumed was their leader, said I should not move. He said I should cooperate with them. I was appalled by his request. While standing in front of the gate of our office, he said I should dial a certain number on my phone. I asked him why. But he insisted that I should dial the number. I told him, No, I will not dial any number. If they have any case to sort out with me, especially something that has to do with my work, they should come into the office. But if it is a private matter, I would be ready to follow them to wherever they want to take me to. This was when one of my supervisors, Mr Chigbu Precious, approached us. And they followed us to the reception. But before then, he asked some of the operatives to remove their uniforms and take back their rifles to their vehicles, and they complied. While at the reception, Mr Precious asked them some questions, but they were unyielding; they insisted that I should dial the number using my phone. I resisted, and instead, I put a call to Hamza Idris, who is the General Editor (of Daily Trust) and Anchor of the (Daily Politics) programme I produce, Ms Ibrahim said. When Mr Idris got to the reception, he asked the operatives about their mission, and after some back-and-forth with them, he called the Group Chief Executive Officer of Media Trust, Ahmed Shekarau, and notified him of what was happening. Mr Idris said, The police operatives told me that they were tracking a certain suspect, and they discovered that Amina was in touch with the person, and that is why they tracked her number, and they wanted her to give them details of the man. I told them it was not possible for her to disclose the identity of guests on the programme she produces. I requested that they give us the number of the person they were looking for so that we can address the matter at the highest level of our company in the event it has to do with our operations. But they were reluctant to do so until after our GCEO, who, after carefully assessing the situation, gave the nod for Amina to answer the questions of the operatives. He also directed that she should dial the number so as to establish if really, she had any contact with the person they were looking for. According to the editor, after Ms Ibrahim dialled the number, the name of the suspect did not appear on her phone. But it appeared that the operatives were not convinced, and they didnt want to let her go, Mr Idris said. According to him, This back-and-forth lasted for nearly two hours! I then requested that they allow me to dial the number on my phone, being the anchor of Daily Politics, and they agreed. It was at that point I discovered that, indeed, they were looking for one of the leaders of the #EndBadGovernance protest, whom we hosted during one of our programmes, he said. Mr Idris reiterated to the police officers that considering the provisions of the Nigerian constitution and the laws guiding journalism practice, reporters have the right to interview interested parties and are obliged to protect their sources. The security agents finally agreed to depart, though they still insisted that they might require the Trust TV producer to answer more questions. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print At least 26 protesters arrested in the #EndBadGovernance demonstration in Kaduna State were remanded in correctional facilities on Monday. They were charged before a magistrate court with criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, mischief by fire, joining unlawful assembly, armed with offensive weapons, rioting, and unlawful possession of weapons. According to the police First Information Report (FIR), the suspects were arrested on 1 August at the Government House, Kaduna, participating in the demonstration. The suspects were arraigned before the magistrate on Monday, who ordered their remand in a correctional facility after they failed to meet bail conditions. Fresh arrests Meanwhile, the police in the state said they arrested another 39 suspects on Monday. The police spokesperson in the state, Mansur Hassan, said in a statement that among those arrested was a tailor producing the Russian flags for protesters in the state. The Kaduna State Police Command has successfully apprehended 39 suspects who exploited the End Bad Governance protest. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later These individuals, seen displaying Russian and Chinese flags, mobilised and engaged in the vandalisation of private and public properties. Among the damaged properties were a Hilux vehicle belonging to KADVS, a Toyota Yaris owned by a journalist, and the KASTLEA office in Zone 6, Zaria, which was set on fire, the police said the statement. Mr Hasan said the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, intervened to restore order in the state. He said during the confrontation, the suspects became hostile and resorted to using stones, catapults, and other weapons. He said officers managed to calm the situation with minimal use of tear gas. In total, 39 suspects were arrested at the scene, including a tailor who was sewing the foreign flags for the group. The police recovered 38 Russian flags, one Chinese flag, two catapults with a bag of stones, and various vandalised items. The State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Ali Dabigi, psc, while commending his officers, issued a stern warning to all residents to adhere to the imposed curfew. He assured that violators would face arrest and prosecution in accordance with the law. The commissioner also appeals to all citizens to cooperate with the police and other security agencies during this critical period. The curfew is in place to protect lives and property and ensure the swift restoration of peace in Kaduna State, the police spokesperson said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The UN has said that nine staff working for its Palestine refugee agency UNRWA will be sacked for their involvement in the 7 October 2023 Hamas-led attacks against Israel. The development follows the conclusion of an investigation by the UN Office of Oversight Services (OIOS), launched earlier this year. Israel alleged that several UNRWA personnel took part in the assault on its territory in which some 1,200 people were killed and another 250 were taken to Gaza as hostages. However, OIOS was not able to independently authenticate information used by Israel to support the allegations. OIOS is the highest investigative body in the UN system and its reports are confidential but can be made available to Member States on request. Investigators made findings in relation to 19 UNRWA staff alleged to have been involved in the attacks, UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq told journalists in New York. In one case, no evidence was obtained by OIOS to support the allegations of the staff members involvement, while in nine other cases, the evidence obtained by OIOS was insufficient to support the staff members involvement, he said. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Regarding these 10 cases, he said that appropriate measures will be taken in due course, in conformity with UNRWA Regulations and Rules. With respect to the remaining nine cases, the evidence obtained by OIOS indicated that the UNRWA staff members may have been involved in the 7 October attacks. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini issued a statement acknowledging the completion of the probe. I have decided that in the case of these remaining nine staff members, they cannot work for UNRWA. All contracts of these staff members will be terminated in the interest of the Agency, he said. Asked about the extent of the staff members alleged involvement, Haq responded that he did not have specific information about the specific allegations. He said the OIOS investigation involved visits to Israel for discussions with officials and to see and review information held by authorities there. The investigators also travelled to Amman, Jordan, to obtain and review relevant information held by UNRWA, including on its staff and operations. They also reviewed information and communications technology data, such as email records and information on agency vehicles, in addition to information from various other sources. These include releases to the media and other public sources, and communications with several Member States. However, one thing Id like to point out is that since information used by Israeli officials to support the allegations have remained in Israeli custody, OIOS was not able to independently authenticate most of the information provided to it, he said. The accusations surfaced in January when Israel informed UNRWA of the alleged involvement of 12 staff members in the attacks. UNRWA immediately identified and terminated 10, while two were confirmed dead. The UN later received information from Israel about seven more cases five in March and two in April. Following the initial allegations, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres immediately ordered OIOS to investigate. He also appointed an independent review panel to conduct a separate assessment of UNRWA to determine its neutrality and responses to allegations of serious breaches. The panel headed by former French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna published its report in April. Speaking at the time, Colonna said, the set of rules and the mechanisms and procedures in place [at UNRWA] are the most elaborate within the UN system. Precisely because it is such a difficult issue to work in such a complex and sensitive environment. Mr Lazzarini said that UNRWA has started implementing the panels recommendations and is fully committed to them. Finally, I reiterate UNRWAs condemnation of the October 7 attack in the strongest possible terms. I call once again for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and their safe return to their families, he said. Mr Haq was asked about the Secretary-Generals views regarding the OIOS findings. The UN chief believes that it is important that we go through this very carefully, given the fact that any involvement in these attacks would constitute a major betrayal of trust. Obviously, there were actions that were taken for the benefit of the agency that were very swift and very decisive in terms of dealing with the individuals who had been named at first, and now its good to have all of the information available, he said. Referring to the Gaza war, Mr Haq also underlined the importance of remembering that a huge number of UNRWA staff have been taking enormous risks for months. He said that they are keeping hundreds of thousands of people alive, whether in shelters or by providing food and services. And we want to make sure that the reputation of our UNRWA staff, our dedicated staff, including about 200 people who have lost their lives since 7 October, is fully recognized and that UNRWA gets the support that it needs, he said. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print I had witnessed high-speed chases and intense shootouts only in action movies until Saturday when my colleagues and I found ourselves in the middle of a harrowing, real-life experience while covering an anti-government protest in Abuja, Nigerias capital. The initially calm situation on the protest ground began to take a frightening turn when suspected officials of the State Security Service (SSS) and police started firing tear gas and then live ammunition at peaceful protesters and journalists. It was a surreal and terrifying experience! How it all began I was among the four reporters deployed on Saturday by my organisation, PREMIUM TIMES, to the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, to cover the ongoing nationwide protests dubbed #EndbadgovernanceInNigeria or 10 Days of Rage in Abuja. However, my first coverage began on Friday, the second day of the demonstration. On Saturday, I was among the first set of people to arrive on the premises of the stadium the converging venue designated for the Abuja protesters at about 8:45 a.m. While waiting for my other colleagues and the protesters to arrive, I parked my car (a black Toyota Corolla) on the opposite side of the road, about 200 metres adjacent to the stadiums main entrance. Some well-kitted policemen were seen standing by the entrance to the stadium beside their armoured vehicles. Shortly after, several journalists representing other media outlets arrived. At about 9:15 a.m., no protesters had arrived. The other journalists, with Cable, ICIR, AriseTV, Channels TV, News Central TV, and I were waiting. After a while, a handful of protesters started converging on the gate side. The protesters came bearing different placards with arrays of demand slogans. At about 10:15 a.m., a deputy commissioner of police, FCT, who identified himself as Ishiyaku, came to address the journalists alongside other heavily armed officers. As the demonstrations continued, he told the journalists that they came to ensure peace and that no one was hurt. However, shortly after he departed, at about 11:00 a.m., journalists began to interview some of the protesters. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later They have been asking us to go inside the stadium, but we are afraid because they want to kill us. They have been tear gassing us since Day 1, said a female protester, who wore a white top and tight-fitted trousers. Later on, the few protesters (less than 100 people) called themselves to order. They formed a circle, displaying their placards, as they took turns speaking through a green colour amplifier. It drizzled briefly, but the protesters continued as the rain droplets stopped. At about 11:30 a.m., some policemen were seen crossing to the other side of the road, repositioning themselves. They soon started firing tear gas in the direction of the protesters. In their midst were some journalists conducting interviews. Tear gas canisters rain down The atmosphere suddenly became rowdy and tense. The peaceful protesters and journalists began to run for safety. The previously serene atmosphere suddenly became a battleground, the atmosphere turning cloudy as smoke from the tear gas filled the air. Kpa, Kpa, kpa, kpa! were the scary gunfire sounds resonating from different directions. Tear gas canisters were raining down. Sooty smoke oozed out of each canister as it landed on the ground. As if that was not enough, several police officers ran after the fleeing crowd, harassing and assaulting some of the protesters they could get hold of. I quickly hopped into my colleague Abdulqudus Ogundapos car, parked a few metres away from where the protesters had gathered. Other journalists from Cable hurriedly joined, and he drove off. He drove around the stadium premises back to the main entrance again in anticipation that the protesters would regroup. We were wrong. All the protesters had disappeared. We saw the police officers harass a protester who knelt before one of the officers, as if begging for his life. Another of my PREMIUM TIMES colleagues, Ademola Popoola, an ICIR reporter, Mustapha, and an AriseTV cameraman were videoing the incident. Displeased, the policemen ordered all the journalists to leave the area. Leave this place! Leave this place!, one of the policemen ordered with anger. At this point, all the journalists at the scene crossed the road to the opposite side of the stadium, where my car and other cars were parked. By the boot of my car were journalists wearing faze caps branded AIT. My PREMIUM TIMES colleague Emmanuel Agbo was on my left, and to my right were two journalists from Peoples Gazette. Also, parked in front of my car were cars carrying the AriseTV crew, the News Central, the ICIR journalists and others covering the protest. Arrival of the hooded men While we were all trying to recover from the tear gas, at about 12:15 p.m., more police vans arrived at the stadium. Shortly after, about seven Toyota Sienna vehicles (with no number plates) disgorged dozens of hooded and heavily armed SSS officers. As soon as they alighted from their vehicles, the hooded men moved in different directions. Leave this place, leave this place, one of them kept huffing, swinging his hand in anger while pointing his rifle toward journalists covering the protests. He immediately began to load his rifle with shiny-edged bullets wrapped around his waist, and he started to shoot in the direction I stood with the other journalists carrying cameras on the opposite side of the stadium. I could not immediately process what was happening. In a split second, I hurriedly opened the doors of my car. The journalists close to the door hopped in, trembling and screaming. As the car roared to life, we saw the hooded SSS official stumble into the drainage by the roadside. Before he could regain balance to reload his gun to fire more shots, I drove off at speed, carrying six journalists who lay low in my car. After I drove about 600 metres away from the scene, I stopped. Other journalists did, too. The aim was to see if we could capture the moment better. Little did we know that the SSS officials were still after us in their vehicle. As I was about to step out of the car to observe them, my colleagues shouted, Move! Move!! They are coming. Gripped with shock, as I stepped on the car accelerator, the sound of gunfire boomed behind us. But in a moment, the bullets came close as I heard them hit the backside of my car. My car has been shot, I informed the journalists behind me. I heard the sound, too, replied one of them. As I drove towards Independence Avenue, just before the road to the United Nations House in Abuja, I parked to confirm the shots. Bullet holes stared back at me. Three bullets have pierced the boot of the car, I told the journalists in my car, and they screamed. Please, lets keep moving, retorted one of them. I quickly drove back to our office at Wuse Zone 2. As we arrived, we all thanked God for saving our lives. But I kept wondering who could have ordered the hooded men to shoot at journalists with clear identification marks. At about 5:17 p.m., we drove back to the stadium; no protesters were there, but the security forces were still loitering on the premises. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigerian government said it has identified Nigerians in the diaspora who are sponsoring the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest. The government said it has placed such individuals on a watch list and also frozen their Nigerian accounts. The Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, said the sponsors are on a watch list and will be arrested when entering the country. Ms Nandap made this known on Tuesday in Abuja during a combined news conference by the heads of security agencies and Service Chiefs convened by the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa at the Defence Headquarters. She said, We have identified some diaspora sponsors; they are on our watch list. Any attempt they make to come into the country, we will be notified, and they will be picked up and handed to the appropriate authority. The immigration boss said the service had, in response to the protest, deployed more officers to land borders and airports to ensure effective manning of those entry ports. She said that NIS had also stepped up surveillance to prevent foreign intervention in the country. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the police had uncovered some sponsors but declined to give further information on them. Mr Egbetokun said that some bank accounts of such individuals had been blocked, adding that many of them reside abroad. Also, the Director General of the State Security Services, Yusuf Bichi, represented by the services spokesman, Peter Afunanya, said that the service was monitoring those concerned. He added that the service was also working with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit to identify more people behind the protests funding. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the defence chief led the service chiefs and heads of all the security, intelligence and paramilitary agencies to brief newsmen on the nationwide protest. The briefing came a day after President Bola Tinubu met with the security chiefs on the security situation following the violence that broke out during the protests across the country. None of the officials disclosed the number of diasporans affected by the sanctions. But the move is expected to be criticised by human rights groups who have faulted the governments handling of the protests. Amnesty International reported that at least 13 people have been killed since the protests started last Thursday, most by police officers, although the police dispute the claim. The protesters are demanding economic and political reforms including a reversal of some government policies that have contributed to Nigerias worst cost of living crisis in a generation. PREMIUM TIMES reported that President Bola Tinubu addressed Nigerians about the protest on Sunday but did not make any concessions. The protests turned violent in some states, mainly in northern Nigeria, leading state governments to declare curfews. In other states like Abuja, where it was peaceful, the police attacked protesters with tear gas and other ammunition, injuring many. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Claim: An Instagram user claimed that a boiled mixture of ginger and cinnamon can serve as a form of contraceptive for unwanted pregnancy. Verdict: Insufficient evidence. Experts reveal that while these spices are used in traditional practices, more rigorous clinical trials and peer-reviewed studies are needed to validate their effectiveness. Therefore, their potency and reliability still need to be proven. Full Text Cinnamon, also known as Cinnamomum, is a popular sweet spice obtained from tree bark. It is renowned for its culinary and medicinal uses. Cinnamon trees leaves, roots, flowers, and fruits have historically been used in culinary practices and medicinal purposes. They are known for improving blood sugar control, providing antioxidants, managing cholesterol levels, supporting heart health, potentially enhancing cognitive function, and protecting against neurodegenerative diseases. If taken in large quantities, it may stress the liver and potentially lead to liver damage over time. Ginger, scientifically known as Zingiber officinale, is a spicy, aromatic root used in cooking. It has a longstanding history as a traditional remedy in folk medicine, widely utilised to treat various ailments. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later It is used for culinary and medicinal purposes for its spicy flavour and health benefits, including alleviating nausea, aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, boosting immunity, and potentially improving blood sugar levels and heart health. An Instagram user, Joyetor, said consuming a boiled mixture of ginger and cinnamon will certainly prevent pregnancy. If you are looking for a safe, 100 per cent side effect-free method of preventing pregnancy at home, consider this recipe: boil ginger and cinnamon in water, let it steep for 20 minutes and drink the mixture twice a day around the time you plan to have sexual intercourse, the user said. As of 10 July, the claim had gained 5,276 likes, 565 comments, and 2,603 shares since the post. Others react Tiaramen_essentials said, Joygiver with the ogbonge tips, definitely trying this. Another follower, ebony_blog2, commented, Aww my esan sis thanks so much for this make I save this video for the future. Given the claims potential impact on public health, DUBAWA initiated a fact check to verify its accuracy. Verification A study evaluating a comprehensive review of plants used as contraceptives revealed that the powder of ginger has abortifacient properties, meaning that it can induce abortion and has been traditionally used for such purposes in some cultures. It mentions further that Zingiber roseum, another species of ginger, is noted for its anti-implantation activity, which suggests a contraceptive effect by preventing the implantation of an embryo. However, the article does not provide detailed experimental data or clinical trials to confirm the efficacy and safety of ginger as a contraceptive. The publication emphasises the need for further research to explore the full potential and safety of herbal contraceptives, including those derived from ginger, for reliable fertility control. Another article noted that cinnamon is traditionally believed to stimulate the uterus and potentially lead to miscarriage, though it is not an immediate solution for abortion. It further notes that for those seeking to avoid pregnancy, consuming cinnamon tea is recommended by adding it to boiled water and drinking it on an empty stomach. The article, however, mentions that this method is not an instant solution for abortion. Experts opinions In an interview, Qudus Lawal, a gynaecologist at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State, explained to DUBAWA that there is no scientific basis that boiling ginger and cinnamon and drinking the mixture can serve as a contraceptive. Mr Lawal said: Contraception is a very serious matter, and for any agent to be considered a contraceptive, it must undergo rigorous clinical trials to prove its efficacy and safety. Neither ginger nor cinnamon possesses the necessary properties to qualify as a contraceptive, and relying on them for such purposes is both ineffective and potentially harmful. He outlined various medically approved contraceptive methods, including hormonal contraceptives (such as pills, patches, and injections), barrier methods (such as condoms and diaphragms) and natural methods (such as withdrawal and fertility awareness). Another gynaecologist, Henry Iwunze, who works at Simone Hospital in Aba, told DUBAWA, The use of ginger and cinnamon as a contraceptive is rooted in traditional practices. Historically, these methods have been used in various cultures and may have anecdotal support. However, he noted that while herbal medicine may hold that ginger and cinnamon have contraceptive properties, these claims have not undergone rigorous scientific testing or clinical trials to ensure their safety and efficacy. Without such evidence, we cannot recommend their use as a reliable contraceptive within the medical community. Mr Iwunze concluded that as a medical professional, I must adhere to evidence-based practices. Outside of my professional capacity, I acknowledge that some traditional methods are valued in various cultures. However, I would advise caution and recommend consulting with a healthcare provider for reliable contraceptive methods. Conclusion While ginger and cinnamon have been used historically in traditional medicine for various purposes, including as contraceptives, there is insufficient evidence to support their efficacy. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A PREMIUM TIMES analysis published on 9 June 2024 explored Nigerias level of preparedness as the European Union plans to sanction fossil fuel imports with emissions level above the approved threshold starting from 2030. The article titled, EUs planned sanction on methane emissions heightens pressure on Nigeria, highlighted the scale of environmental degradation in the Niger Delta over the years and the benefits the country stands to gain through methane capture and reduction in emissions. Authored by Ronald Adamolekun, the article also tracked the activities of the countrys super emitters while examining regulators readiness for the start of the implementation of the new EU law. It also highlighted NOSDRAs efforts to curb fugitive methane emissions in Nigeria. The piece referenced an interview with Idris Musa, the agencys director general, where he mentioned how NOSDRA was developing a satellite-based emissions tracker as a top-down measurement reporting and verification system tool to help monitor and cut fugitive emissions across gas pipelines. He said the tracker would serve as a tool to detect, measure and quantify emissions from assets that can be coupled with Bottom-Top emission data tracking to meet the approved levels set by the EU law. The NOSDRA chief stated that the agency is investing in new technologies for leak detection and that its monitoring, reporting and verification system would help strengthen monitoring and surveillance systems along pipelines. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later However, the agency has sent a rejoinder reacting to issues raised in the article. Read the rejoinder in full here. REJOINDER: EUs Planned Sanction on Methane Emissions Heightens Pressure on Nigeria By Okechukwu Ronald Emeh The attention of National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) has been duly drawn to a report with the above title, which was featured in Premium Times Newspaper of June 9, 2024. In the report, written by one Roland Adamolekun, he beamed light on what he perceived as the significant pressure on Nigeria to address methane emissions, particularly in its oil and gas industry, due to new European Union (EU) s regulations. While appreciating some of the vital issues raised by the writer in his report in Premium Times, NOSDRA the statutory environmental regulatory body in Nigerias oil and gas industry is, however, in discordant tune with a number of his contentious claims in the said publication. Hence, the inevitability of this rejoinder whose essence is not to join issues with him but to set the record straight on such claims evidently buoyed by damaging lack of factuality and in-depth research that are supposed to be part of the hallmarks of investigative journalism. Thus, the claims of Adamolekun with the likelihood of creating base and unnecessary innuendos, misconceptions and misrepresentation in some public sphere about the Federal Governments avowed commitment and restless efforts to tackle gas flaring and the corresponding methane emissions on the basis of acceptable international standards are as follows: the countrys failure to reduce methane emissions proportionally with oil production underscores the lack of genuine efforts to mitigate gas flaring. Moreover, the health and environmental impacts of methane emissions have been largely ignored, despite evidence of severe consequences regulatory bodies such as NUPRC and NMDPRA in Nigeria have shown a lack of responsiveness and accountability in enforcing environmental standards the Nigerian governments prioritisation of profit over environmental and public health concerns Before making any inroad in simultaneously responding to the foregoing claims by Adamolekun, which reek of insinuation about lack of political will and inadequacy on the part of the Nigerian government to rigorously tackle gas flares, it is apt to note that the EUs new regulations on methane emissions have provided valuable insights into the impelling necessity to place premium on environmental conservation in the countrys critical oil and gas industry. In synch with this, NOSDRA, as an embodiment of the Federal Governments implacable commitment and determination towards ensuring zero-tolerance for pollution in the industry, has played a key role in efforts to cut down gas flares and the precipitous methane emissions through part of its deliberate and well-articulated environmental regulations, guidelines and standards for the petroleum industry in chime with the best international practices. This is apart from striving to constrict and contain reckless incidents of oil spillage and gas flares with an eye to safeguarding the ecosystem, human health and means of livelihood and ensuring social peace. It is germane, at this stage, to bring to public limelight the landmark efforts by the Federal Government, under the institutional framework of NOSDRA, to confront head-on the monstrous incidence of gas flaring and the attendant methane emissions through innovative and confidence-building policies and programmes. On this score, the agency has introduced the technology-driven state-of-the art Nigerian Gas Fare Tracker (NGFT), which serves as a cornerstone in the countrys environmental regulatory paradigm for the gas sub-sector. Instructively, the NGFT a satellite-based platform provides near real-time monitoring and tracking of gas flare activities in Nigeria and thereby enhances transparency and accountability within the sub-sector. This tool, which underscores the Federal Governments commitment to innovation and excellence in combating gas flares and the associated emissions, not only identifies and quantifies flared emissions but also provides invaluable data and insights to governmental bodies for informed decision-making. In the words of Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the Honourable Minister of State for Environment: The unique, technologically-driven environmental regulatory tool not only identifies gas flare sites with precision but also quantifies CO2 emissions, compute economic values and estimates the power generating potential of the flared gas. Although the said report written by Adamolekun in Premium Times might have out of omission owing to dearth of in-depth research or commission possibly aroused by a craving to give the dog a bad name in order to hang it not taken into account the spirited or spectacular efforts of the Nigerian government in rolling back the frontiers of gas flares and the implicit harmful impacts, the overly promising potentials of the somewhat game-changing NGFT in coming to grips with this serious environmental challenge cannot be overstated. Interestingly enough, the writer cited a study sponsored by Oxford Policy Management (OPM), which, incidentally, NOSDRA was a major driving force in producing by virtue of its well-enunciated graph on gas flaring from the five super emitters in the country. Notably, the agency formulated the study in 2022 under its Maiden National Stakeholders Summit on the Use of Satellite for Tracking Gas Flare and Emissions in the Oil and Gas industry in Nigeria held in Abuja. Part of the stellar performance by the Nigerian government to constrain and control reckless gas flaring and oil spillage by petroleum industry operators was reflected in the Maiden Edition of Environmental Performance Awards for the operators conducted in Abuja in May 2024 by NOSDRA, in conjunction with Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN), a non-governmental organisation that works to promote human rights, including the right to a healthy environment, especially in communities hosting extractive industries. In a keynote address at the workshop, the Honourable Minister of State for Environment opined that the award ceremony celebrates the nominees who have set benchmarks in environmental best practices. It is also noteworthy that NOSDRAs Inaugural Workshop on Request for Quarterly Reporting of Utilisation Efforts and Initiatives towards the Reduction of Carbon Footprints organised in Abuja on May 23 of this year, coupled with other catalytic initiatives, encapsulated the agencys unflagging commitment and strides to ensuring environmental sustainability in Nigerias petroleum industry. In that trail-blazing workshop, which witnessed the active participation of phalanxes of different critical stakeholders, including those from the oil and gas sector, relevant governmental bodies, the international partners, civil society organisations (CSOs) and the media, the minister highlighted the resolve and unrelenting efforts of the Federal Government to combat gas flaring and emissions in the country. It is widely believed that the quarterly reporting initiative would help to plug some of the regulatory gaps in the oil and gas sector, besides catalysing smarter utilisation initiatives for sustainable energy access provision, as well as preparation to ensure compliance readiness to new EUs regulations on methane emissions capture that could affect our gas export agenda. Expectedly, the upcoming launch of the satellite-based Methane Emissions Tracker by NOSDRA would represent a significant milestone in Nigerias journey towards achieving tier 2 and 3 data reporting requirements, as outlined in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)s emission data grade requirement. What is more, the agency has co-pioneered a Mechanism for Fact-checking Gas Flare Volumes, thus ensuring transparency and accountability within the gas sub-sector. Suffice it to say that NOSDRAs advocacy for a Hybrid Emissions Data Gathering regime underscores the Federal Governments dedication to accuracy and reliability in environmental reporting in the upstream petroleum industry that recognises the use of satellite approach for top-down field data gathering, while the fiscal-grade metering serves as a bottom-top concept of emission Measurement Reporting and Verification (MRV) system needed to monitor the activities of the industry operators in Nigeria. Looking back, in July 2023, a team from the Gas Revenue Mobilisation Committee of Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Commission (RMFC), led by its Chairman, Mr. Patrick Mgbedo, paid a working visit to NOSDRA to seek for inter-agency cooperation on generating a much-needed accurate yearly data on gas flares in Nigeria in terms of the quantity flared and the revenue derivable from such wasted flares when sanctioned as fines and penalties. Mr. Mgbedo highly commended the agency for its leading role in oil spill management in the country, as well as its impressive provision of insightful data and technical expertise on how to address the vexed issues of gas flares, oil spills and crude oil theft. He pledged that RMFC was willing and ready to tap from the vast wealth of knowledge and experience embedded in NOSDRAs custodian of gas flare data to serve the country in terms of revenue mobilisation from flared gas by International Oil Companies (IOCs), while taking cognisance of the overwhelming need to promote clean and sustainable environment in the petroleum industry. This is as the Nigerian government girds its loins to frontally tackle the disturbing incidence of gas flaring through likely bankable or revenue-yielding financial sanctions to dissuade such harmful practices by petroleum industry operators, as well as the new policy of increased gas utilisation as source of clean and cheaper energy for domestic use, automobile and power generation. It is also apposite to state that in this evolving brave new world of digital economic transformation, NOSDRA has not been found wanting in promoting the use of Geospatial Information Technologies as a value addition to continuously monitor the impacts of the oil and gas industry operators on the environment. Of course, one cannot discount the potentials of the agency-produced NGFT tool and the like in adding value to the numerous laudable initiatives of the Nigerian government on gas flare-down and methane mitigation agenda in the country by 2030. At this juncture, it is noteworthy that the Federal Governments commitment and restless efforts towards institutionalising zero-tolerance policy for environmental pollution in our petroleum industry, through NOSDRA, have remained unsullied or not dampened by capacity and institutional building challenges facing the agency, such as paucity of fund and limited accoutrements for oil spill detection, response and remediation. As Nigeria is assumably now in a tryst with the future to meet its environmental sustainability and climate goals, critical stakeholders or publics, including Adamolekun, are called upon not only to acknowledge the catalytic role being played by the agency in promoting the noble culture of reducing pollution in our petroleum industry but also lend their much-needed support to enable it realise its statutory mandate in the enlightened interests of unthreatened biodiversity, human health, means of livelihood and social peace in the country, particularly in host oil and gas communities. Again, there is not only an over-aching need but also a fierce sense of urgency to strengthen and galvanise NOSDRAs statutory mandate not to mention integrating it fully into Nigerias Hydrocarbon Regulatory Framework of the petroleum industry. For one, such a desirable move would profoundly contribute to both institutional and capacity building drives that will enable it discharge its official duties and obligations without compromise, levity and lethargy. Last but not least, there is a crying need for NOSDRA to be repositioned as Environmental Police in the industry, particularly now the implementation of the all-important Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) is on its inchoate stage. For one reason, such a move would be in tune with the lofty and valiant determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as part of his Renewed Hope Agenda to vastly improve the effectiveness, efficiency and unfettered-ness of enforcing all environmental laws in our oil and gas sector in order to ensure sustainable national development, besides blocking revenue leakages from fines and penalties for habitual and un-responding oil spill and gas flare corporate company defaulters, safeguarding human health and means of livelihood and promoting social peace by staving off communal grievances over pollution and the requisite compensation claims. Evidently, NOSDRA is resolutely committed and steely determined to enforce all environmental regulations, guidelines and standards in the countrys oil and gas sector with a view to sustainably managing our natural environment/resources, protecting public health and mitigating pollution and climate change. It is impossible to conclude this rejoinder without calling on Adamolekun to kindly visit NOSDRAs Website (www.nosdra.gov.ng) for more instructive and knowledgeable information from the insightful work of the agency on gas flares and the way forward out of the crisis. All relevant stakeholders on environmental preservation in Nigerias petroleum industry are also besought to close ranks and forge ahead in synergy in a deliberate and resolute bid to effectively address the hydra-headed monster of gas flares, along with oil spills, in the quest for a cleaner, safer and more sustainable future in the industry. *Emeh is Head of Media and Publicity Unit (MPU) of National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Headquarters, Abuja, FCT. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigeria Police Force has warned against the display of foreign flags and calls for a military takeover, in the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests. The police categorised such actions as treasonable felonies under Nigerian law. During the protests in Kaduna, Kano, and some northern states, some demonstrators waved Russian flags amid calls for military intervention. Ongoing investigations reveal that protest organisers in the states mentioned above are luring innocent children into participating in these unpatriotic and criminal acts, the police said in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi. According to the statement, more than 90 suspects have been arrested, including tailors who sewed the flags and their sponsors. The police noted that efforts are underway to apprehend others who sponsored the production of the flags and fuelled these treasonable acts. The display of foreign flags and calls for a military takeover constitutes a clear treasonable offence, revealing the motives of protest organisers to destabilise Nigerias democratic government, the police said. This aligns with actionable intelligence on the tactics of fifth columnists and non-state actors exploiting economic hardship protests to further their nefarious goals. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The police claimed that President Tinubus address on 4 August had eased tensions among protesters. They, however, blamed some groups for persisting in subversive campaigns in the form of violent and unlawful protests, characterised by the destruction of public infrastructure and private property, looting, display of foreign flags, and calls for a military takeover. These individuals and groups will be treated as subversive agents and charged accordingly, the police declared. Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed deputy inspectors general of police for the North-west and Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun to take charge of operations in the states within the two geo-political zones where subversive campaigns are ongoing under the guise of protests. The deputy inspectors general of police were tasked with stabilising the situation and preventing further violence in the affected states. The protests began on 01 August and are expected to last for 10 days. The protesters are demanding the reversal of unfavourable government policies. The protests have turned violent in some states like Kano, Niger and Jigawa, and casualties have been recorded. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Nigerias Minister for Niger Delta Development, Abubakar Momoh, has said poor performances of some governors were contributing to economic hardship in the country. Mr Momoh made the remark on Tuesday when he appeared as a guest on Channels TVs The Morning Brief. The minister, who was reacting to the ongoing protest against economic hardship in Nigeria, argued that some governors failed to work effectively in their states despite improved monthly allocations. I listened to those, particularly the youths, who have been saying that this (federal) government is not doing enough (to end bad governance) and want things to be done differently. But let me make it clear. I think in Nigeria today, with the withdrawal of (petrol) subsidy, people should know that, of course, money is being made available to different tiers of government, both the state and local governments. And such monies are expected to translate to good governance, he said. Mr Momoh argued that the federal government was doing enough to end economic hardship in the country. He cited the recent removal of import taxes on food items and the distribution of trucks of rice to various states. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The minister, who defended the removal of the petrol subsidy, claimed that some state governors were sabotaging federal government efforts to end hunger in Nigeria. Giving an instance of the alleged sabotage, he claimed that Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State hoarded 20 trucks of rice which the federal government delivered to every state to cushion the impacts of economic hardship in the country. Mr Momoh, an indigene of Edo State, said he watched on television how protesters broke into some warehouses and looted bags of rice which some state governors refused to share to the masses. Although Mr Momoh did not mention the affected states, protesters recently looted bags of rice in a warehouse in Edo. The minister expressed anger that Mr Obaseki, while addressing protesters recently, reportedly said he would take their message to President Bola Tinubu. The impression he (Obaseki) was giving was that the bad governance is at the doorstep of the federal government, whereas the resources of this country are being shared among the three tiers of government. We should expect such a person to address the problem we have in Edo State. How many roads has he been able to tar? How many erosion problems has he been able to solve? he stated. Mr Momoh accused Mr Obaseki of frequently re-bagging food items from the federal government to give the impression that the Edo State Government sponsored such relief materials for the people of the state. What he (Obaseki) does is that if the government brings relief materials, he would re-bag them and put his name. We also saw it during the COVID-19 era and thats the same thing that is happening today, he said. The minister, however, singled out Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State for praise, saying he watched the governor on television directing that no government official would benefit from the relief materials. Obaseki silent Crusoe Osagie, a media aide to Governor Obaseki, did not respond to several calls from PREMIUM TIMES seeking his comments. Mr Osagie was also yet to respond to a text message, several hours later. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has given the go-ahead foreign crucial financial assistance to support the proposed merger between Unity Bank Plc and Providus Bank Limited. According to a statement by the CBNs Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi, on Tuesday, the intervention aims to strengthen Nigerias financial system and prevent potential systemic risks. The apex bank said the merger is dependent on the financial support provided by the CBN and the funding is expected to play a vital role in addressing Unity Banks total obligations to the Central Bank and other stakeholders. The CBN says its decision aligns with the provisions of Section 42 (2) of the CBN Act, 2007. The merger is contingent upon the financial support from the CBN. The fund will be instrumental in addressing Unity Banks total obligations to the Central Bank and other stakeholders. It is unequivocal to state that the CBNs action is in accordance with the provisions of Section 42 (2) of the CBN Act, 2007. This arrangement is crucial for the financial health and operational stability of the post-merger organisation, it said. It said the current landscape of Nigerian banks is generally stable, with no institution facing precarious situations similar to that of Heritage Bank, which was recently liquidated. The CBN said it remains committed to safeguarding depositors interests and ensuring the smooth functioning of the banking sector through proactive measures and strategic interventions. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The apex bank emphasised its dedication to maintaining financial stability during this transformative period by ensuring that the merger between Unity Bank and Providus Bank proceeds smoothly and contributes positively to the overall stability of Nigerias banking sector. On 29 March, the CBN announced an increase in the minimum capital requirements for banks. ALSO READ: CBN issues licences to three new banks Commercial banks with international licences must now maintain a capital base of N500 billion, while national and regional banks are required to have capital bases of N200 billion and N50 billion, respectively. Also, the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) recently banned Unity Bank from trading, citing its failure to meet the requirement for filing audited annual reports. Unity Bank, which is backed by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), is the only listed bank yet to publish its 2023 earnings report. AMCON, tasked with purchasing and recovering bad loans from banks, is Unity Banks largest shareholder, owning over one-third of its issued shares. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS NEW HEADS OF AGENCIES AND PROGRAMMES UNDER THE FEDERAL MINISTRY OF HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS, DISASTER MANAGEMENT AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT To facilitate the needed relief to Nigerians and ensure the effectiveness of humanitarian and social development programmes, President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of seven qualified Nigerians to head strategic agencies and programmes under the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development. (1) Badamasi Lawal Chief Executive Officer, National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA). Dr. Lawal holds a doctorate degree in education, and he previously served as a commissioner in Katsina State. (2) Funmilola Olotu Programme Manager, National Social Safety-Net Coordinating Office Ms. Olotu holds a masters degree in business administration, and she is the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Lagos State on state lotteries. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later (3) Aishat Alubankudi Programme Manager, Grant for Vulnerable Groups Ms. Alubankudi holds a bachelors degree in community development. She has experience as a risk assessor and financial manager. (4) Aderemi Adebowale Programme Manager, Home Grown School Feeding Princess Adebowale holds a doctorate degree. She is the Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Civic Engagement and previously served as a local government chairperson. (5) Abdullahi Alhassan Imam Programme Manager, National Cash Transfer Office Mr Imam holds a bachelors degree in accountancy and has served as chief accountant, Northern Dairies Ltd, and as a bank manager. (6) Ayuba Gufwan Executive Secretary, National Commission for People with Disabilities Mr Gufwan holds an LLB and is the executive director of the Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Centre, Jos. (7) Lami Binta Adamu Bello Director General, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons Ms. Binta holds a masters degree in public administration and has served as the Secretary-General of ALGON, and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, as well as Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development. The President expects the new heads of these critical agencies and programmes to discharge the functions of their offices with utmost integrity and diligence so as to ensure that Nigerians, especially vulnerable groups, are the exclusive and direct beneficiaries of his administrations reconfigured welfare programmes. Ajuri Ngelale Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) August 6, 2024 Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigerian government says it plans to revive the textile industry to boost job creation in the country. Vice-President Kashim Shettima disclosed this on Tuesday at a meeting with a delegation from the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC). The ICAC delegation was led by its Executive Director, Eric Trachtenberg. Several industry players and other participants, including some state governors, attended the meeting which was held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The meeting was organised to discuss ideas for reviving the cotton and textile industry in Nigeria. Shettima speaks In his opening speech, Mr Shettima challenged the participants to develop a roadmap for reviving the cotton and textile sector in Nigeria. The vice-president assured that President Bola Tinubus administration will make conscious efforts to ensure Nigeria harnesses opportunities in the cotton value chain, including ensuring that the country regains its ICAC membership. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later It will revamp the economy Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State said the meeting afforded Nigeria the opportunity to revamp the moribund textile industry in the country for job creation. So, for me, Im very excited to be part of this conversation that will now revamp the economy of the country. We need to engage our young men and women and then align properly with the new digital age for production and economic stimulation, he said. We need to patronise local cotton On his part, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State said there was a need for Nigerians to patronise locally-made cotton rather than foreign cotton. There are so many things that we can trap back in this country, and thats why we say to ourselves, lets produce what we use. Lets use what we will produce, he said, adding that the move will create job opportunities. Were excited Executive Director of ICAC, Mr Trachtenberg, said they were excited to come back to Nigeria, stressing that they would tap into the potential of Nigerians. You (Nigeria) have low-cost labour, you have market access to AGOA, and to the economic partnership agreements with the European Union, you have a lot of really talented people and very forward-leaning government officials, he said. So I think now is the time, and ICAC is ready to help Nigeria, to help you achieve your goals as a country, to help create quality jobs, to help generate foreign exchange and reimagine the global cotton economy and the Nigeria cotton and textiles economy. Smuggling as obstacle Also speaking, the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, promised to tackle smuggling and support the revival of the textile industry in Nigeria. Mr Adeniyi admitted that smuggling has hindered the industrys growth in Nigeria. As for us in the customs, we are affirming, and we are committing ourselves to do all we can to make sure that we protect the industry, he assured. Therell be no more protests The Director-General of the Nigerian textile Manufacturers Association, Hamma Kwajaffa, described cotton as an international crop. Mr Kwajaffa expressed happiness that the revival of textile has begun and that cotton textile garments will soon be available. So well have big employment for our children. Therell be no more protests, people will be employed, and it will reduce the security problem in Nigeria. So we have spoken today, and by the grace of God, were going to win, he said. Textile industry in Nigeria Nigerias textile industry has continued to struggle for years despite the countrys huge market potential for cotton production. In the 1970s and 1980s, Nigeria was an industrial hub for textile production, having about 180 textile mills with attendant job benefits for youths. However, Nigerias textile industry suffered a decline in the 1990s after many companies exited the country due to impacts of smuggling, harsh economy and government policies, amongst others. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A coalition of 13 civil society organisations has advised that the governments proposed dialogue with the #EndBadGovernance protesters should begin with an immediate release of all arrested peaceful protesters and sanctions against security agents who attacked unharmed peaceful protesters. President Tinubu, during his speech on the fourth day of the protest, expressed the governments openness to dialogue with protesters. The CSOs advised that the dialogue be pursued by officials and representatives of both sides with sincerity of purpose. The signatories of the statement include BudgIT Foundation, Centre for Journalism Innovation & Development (CJID), Media Rights Agenda (MRA) and Enough is Enough (EiE). However, they warned that the dialogue may be difficult to broker if the security forces continue to aggravate the situation with protesters. They also recommended that representatives of the National Peace Committee and reputable civil society groups serve as facilitators and observers of this dialogue process and its outcomes. The protests have entered their sixth day and protesters continue to demand economic and political reforms such as the return of petrol subsidies and a slash in the salaries and allowances of public officials. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later As the protesters vowed to keep marching until 10 August, the organisations urged the federal government to concede the low-hanging requests as a reassurance of its commitment to citizen-centred governance and leadership. In addition, the organisations reminded the Nigerian government that sovereignty belongs to the people, and it is imperative to engage citizens from the perspective of their needs within their stated demands. Violence against protesters Since the first day of the protest, the police, especially in Abuja and some northern states, have used violence to suppress the protests firing tear-gas canisters at the demonstrators and journalists covering the protests. On the first day, they also arrested some protesters and journalists, including PREMIUM TIMES Yakubu Mohammed, who was brutalised by the police. By the third day of the protests, the police said they had arrested nearly 700 protesters across the country. On Sunday night, security operatives arrested a leader of one of the groups leading the protests. Amnesty International reported that at least 13 people have been killed, mainly by the police, since the protests began. The police, however, dispute the figures and the causes. Despite these cases, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, claimed that his officials handled the protests professionally. Some protesters also turned violent and looted properties in places like Kano, Bauchi, Kaduna and Plateau, leading to the imposition of curfews. In some northern states like Kano and Kaduna, some protesters also waved Russian flags. Over 30 of such people have been arrested, authorities said, warning that that amounts to treason. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Mr Atedo Peterside, founder of Stanbic IBTC; Dr Muda Yusuf of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprises (CPPE); and Ebun Olu-Adegboruwa (SAN), have all appealed to the protesters: that their point has been made, and as Bob Marley advised, they should sheath their swords to fight another day. A prolonged shut down of Nigeria can only damage the economy and hurt all parties concerned, whereas there is no guarantee of the desired outcomes. The #EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria were scheduled to take place between 1-10 August, tagged 10 Days of Rage, a seemingly apocalyptic projection of the immediate future of Nigeria constructed in the fashion of The People vs. The State, but as it has turned out, it may be correct on 6 August, today, to say that we are now, more or less, at the end of the protests. For now, that is what it looks like. And what has made the difference is the fact that on Day Four of the protests, the President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, decided to address the nation and speak to the people directly. Since the beginning of the imbroglio, concerned Nigerians had been calling on the President to talk to them. Instead, he sent spokespersons, and condescending Ministers to talk to the people. Nigerians voted for Tinubu, not the variously privileged persons who now have access to the microphone because of him. Section 5 of the 1999 Constitution grants the President the right to delegate authority, but funnily enough, the same Constitution is studiously silent about what the same all-powerful President can do about his other room affairs! His job is strictly to rule Nigeria under the Constitution and the oath of office he took. Whatever happens, he is the man who will be held responsible. From 1 August, Nigerians took to the streets, as they had promised that they would, against bad governance. Within two days, over seventeen persons had been killed across the country, although the police admits that there have been only seven casualties. They also insist that their men did not kill anyone. So, who did the killings? Should anyone die at all? In Kano, Niger, Nasarawa, Borno and Yobe, there was so much violence that the state governments had to declare a curfew. Properties were destroyed. Nobody could go to work. Foreign missions in Nigeria have advised their citizens to get ready for evacuation in case the Nigerian situation got out of hand. The entire country has been at a standstill. It took the President a whole three days for him to be persuaded to speak to Nigerians and tell them that he had finally heard them. Tinubu had to speak for 21 minutes in 38 paragraphs, a pre-recorded, teleprompter-assisted speech, before Nigerians felt that their President had finally heard them. My take is that the President could and should have spoken earlier. He offered the Nigerian people too little too late. Presidential communication should be driven by empathy, which should come at the right time. Take the United Kingdom, where there is, at the moment, race-based riots, and religion-based protests in about 19 cities, triggered by misinformation and disinformation over the knife-killing of three innocent persons Bebe King, 6; Elsie Stancombe, 7; and Alice Aguilar, 9 in Southport, Merseyside, North West England. It was initially claimed via social media that the killer was a Muslim immigrant. This triggered far-right, nationalistic sentiments: Britain for the British and a prompt attack on immigrants. The British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, did not wait for matters to get out of hand before speaking. Two days ago, as the riots spread from Southport to Liverpool and Rotterdam, the British PM quickly addressed the nation, threatening to deal with far-right thugs. Yesterday, he summoned an emergency meeting of the Cobra Committee. He was seen to be taking charge. President Tinubu also reportedly met with traditional rulers and other important people of Nigeria, and through surrogates appealed to the youths of the country to be calm, but he was technically talking to the wrong people. The youths refused to listen. On 1 August, they went on the streets to protest. What we must note here is that the Nigerian President is too much of a monarch. He holds court, and this is one of the things we have to correct in the 1999 Constitution. When the people who elected him in a constitutional democracy demand accountability, he sends emissaries to address them. If he must meet anybody, he holds court with traditional rulers and religious leaders, who end up collecting sitting allowances and flight tickets that could have been better used to serve the people. The ordinary people, the main focus of the democratic process, are the last group to be noticed. And this is precisely the pattern that has played out this time around. On Sunday, at 7 a.m., the monarch of Nigerias Presidential Villa finally deemed it necessary to address the people directly. It turned out to be a big favour! On Sunday morning, the protesters at Ojota Freedom Park in Lagos, who had been toing and froing around the Ikeja axis since 1 August, had a tete-a-tete with the police and they resolved that since the President had spoken, they would suspend their protest till October. They agreed to hold a meeting yesterday at 11 a.m., to deliberate on the Presidents speech. Thus, in Lagos, the Presidents speech had taken the sting, perhaps temporarily, out of the protests. In Kano and a few other places, protesters continued their agitation on Sunday, but the momentum had become generally subdued. On Monday, banks and business places that had remained shut the previous Thursday and Friday, sputtered to life. Nigeria gradually regained normalcy. To that extent, the Presidents national broadcast made a difference. The very symbolism of it doused tension in the country. Should the President have spoken about two days earlier? Yes. Did he leave his personal intervention a bit late? Yes. As is to be expected, there have been reactions for and against the Presidents nationwide address. He has received knocks and kudos Professor Wole Soyinka, in a piece titled The hunger march as universal mandate faulted the President for failing to condemn the states seizure of protest management, and the use of live bullets as state response to civil protest. The people asked for bread, the state gave them bullets in return! What exactly did he say? Not much, and yet it made a small difference. The big lesson is that the Nigerian President and his handlers must never assume that it is beneath him to talk to the same people who elected him into office. He is not a Supreme Leader. He represents the people. Power belongs to the people, not the President. Tinubu is just so, so lucky to have escaped the humiliation that President William Ruto suffered in Kenya, and the fate that has just befallen Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh, following weeks of deadly protests in that South Asian country. Ms Hasina has fled Dhaka. The people ignored a national curfew and stormed her palace, from where she ruled for about two decades. She is now practically on the run. President Tinubu must indeed learn from the luck that he enjoys. Across the world, there is currently a wave of peoples anger, be it in Venezuela, Kenya, or Bangladesh, with the people taking ownership of the democratic process, and seeking every possible means to punish their leaders. With all their angst, Nigerians are still very manageable people, and we must do everything to keep their resentment of authority figures in check. I may have submitted that the Presidents speech has had the effect of dousing tensions, but I do not think that the speech was fit for purpose. The protesters just wanted the President to say something. He said something. It didnt matter what he said, and many were satisfied. But when you look at the speech itself, what did the President say? One, he regretted the killings that took place, expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased, and invited the protesters for dialogue, while insisting on peace. Two, he made it clear that promoters of violence and ethnic bigotry igniting the crisis, will not be spared for violating the laws of the land. Three, he outlined his administrations programmes in the last one year as positive proof of his commitment to Nigerian youths: the Skill Up Artisans Programme (SUPA); the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA); Youth Talent Export Programme (NATEP); students loans; and support for Medium and Small-Scale Enterprises (MSMEs). Four, the President talked about his governments economic reforms, and insisted that there would be no going back on the removal of fuel subsidy and the abolition of multiple foreign exchange rates, the gains of which he said have resulted in increased government revenues, debt service reduction, CNG initiatives to reduce transportation costs, support for the manufacturing sector, and other benefits for the Nigerian people. Five, the President stressed his commitment to public order and the rule of law, stating that he will not tolerate actions that threaten national unity and stability. As is to be expected, there have been reactions for and against the Presidents nationwide address on the protests. He has received knocks and kudos. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo hailed the speech as great, inspiring, compassionate, firm, and conciliatory. Please, what else would Keyamo say? Other commentators have a different opinion. Professor Wole Soyinka, in a piece titled The hunger march as universal mandate faulted the President for failing to condemn the states seizure of protest management, and the use of live bullets as state response to civil protest. The people asked for bread, the state gave them bullets in return! Mr Femi Falana (SAN); activist Deji Adeyanju; and Omoyele Sowore, leader of the Take It Back Movement, have also condemned the Presidents speech. Sowore, who was a presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections describes the speech as Beautiful Nonsense. There seems, nonetheless, to be a general consensus that the speech fell short of the peoples expectations. My view is that the speech writers spent too much time on the achievements of the administration. Nobody wants to listen to propaganda at this time. It is standard practice in the corridors of government in Nigeria to think that any time the President speaks, he should remind the people of his accomplishments. But there must be a time and place to that tradition. The speech this time around should have been shorter and better focused. If I were the person to sign off on the copy, I would have advised against all the navel-gazing, chest beating details in the speech. Certainly not the right time to do that. The protesters had 15 demands and more, not even one of their demands was referred to by the President. There is only one name for that: contempt. It is not enough for the President to say that he is listening, and that he has heard the people loud and clear. What exactly did he hear? What specific information is he processing? Did he, for example, hear that the people say they are hungry? Did he hear or was he told, that the people say they want the cost of governance to be reduced? They dont want leaders living in $21 million mansions, jolloffing inside expensive yachts, junketing like a yoyo inside imported SUVs, while the people are wallowing in penury? Did he hear that the people want electoral reforms and a new Constitution? Or that the general menace of insecurity in the land should be addressed? It was not evident that the President was aware of what the people are saying, except the acknowledgement, in parenthesis, in paragraph 31 of his speech. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Similarly, as part of matters arising from the protests, another set of imbeciles were said to have been going about carrying Russian flags and calling also for military intervention. That is high treason. Nigerians like to imitate even things they do not understand. Whoever is calling for military rule, or promoting Russia on this soil, must be identified and guillotined, after due process. It is good that the Russian Embassy in Nigeria has disowned the protesters Mr Atedo Peterside, founder of Stanbic IBTC; Dr Muda Yusuf of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprises (CPPE); and Ebun Olu-Adegboruwa (SAN), have all appealed to the protesters: that their point has been made, and as Bob Marley advised, they should sheath their swords to fight another day. A prolonged shut down of Nigeria can only damage the economy and hurt all parties concerned, whereas there is no guarantee of the desired outcomes. The way forward clearly is for government to truly listen to the people, not audio promises or any of those cliches: Renewed Hope, Renewed Housing Estate, Renewed Agriculture, which the people have heard so often in the last one year every repeat of the same phrases annoys the majority. The very least that the President could have done would have been the announcement of a committee to look into the peoples demands. We all know that a government committee does not always solve any problem in Nigeria. But the gesture would have taken the pressure off the President. It would give the people the impression that something is being done and that they have been heard. If nothing happens positively for them thereafter, by October they will hold the committee members responsible. Every President must always appoint fall guys in tough situations, who will take the bullets when things go wrong. President Tinubu should learn to dodge the bullets because more will come. There are enough willing fall guys out there, looking for what to eat! All things said, I think the President was spot on when he deplored ethnic bigotry. In the course of the protests, one imbecile with an X-twitter handle was said to have tweeted, under the handle @Lagospedia that Igbos must leave Lagos within the next month, effective 2030 August, and relocate their businesses out of Lagos and other South-West states. The animal that sent out this tweet must be identified and made to face the full wrath of the law. Igbos do not pose any problem to the people of Lagos or Yorubas in general. The beauty of this country lies in the strength it draws from its diversity. We live in an interdependent country where we all rely on each other to survive, drawing strength from one another. It is strange how todays people forget that once upon a time Mbonu Ojike, an Igbo man from Arondizuogu in todays Imo State, was the Deputy Mayor of Lagos (1951). In 1959, the Federal Minister of Lands and Lagos Affairs was Muhammadu Ribadu, a Fulani man. If Igbos were to leave Lagos and the South West today, the region may suffer temporary economic setback. Who will sell vehicle spare parts? Who will sell electronics? Landlords will suffer. The banking system in the South West will crash. Many husbands will become emergency bachelors but that may be a joke the madness that Nigerians exhibit for ethnic reasons stops at the door of the bedroom. Igbos like Yoruba women. Yoruba men cant take their eyes off Igbo women, and all the beautiful girls from the East and South-East. Those who are beating the drums of ethnic hate should remember the civil war. Though tongue and tribe may differ, in brotherhood we stand. Those who violate this principle must be sanctioned. They should be told to remember Rwanda and how ethnic hate and rivalry tore a country apart. They should be reminded of the story of Hitler, whose name lives in infamy forever. Similarly, as part of matters arising from the protests, another set of imbeciles were said to have been going about carrying Russian flags and calling also for military intervention. That is high treason. Nigerians like to imitate even things they do not understand. Whoever is calling for military rule, or promoting Russia on this soil, must be identified and guillotined, after due process. It is good that the Russian Embassy in Nigeria has disowned the protesters and that the Department of State Services has arrested the unpatriotic tailor in Kano, along with 31 others, who were mass producing Russian flags and promoting this dangerous signal. The sad story, really, is that this country is in the grips of mass psychosis at all levels. President Tinubus primary job, since he says it is his turn, and he is now where he wants to be, is to walk the talk, and rescue Nigeria if he can. Reuben Abati, a former presidential spokesperson, writes from Lagos. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print HRDs and civil society organisations (CSOs) as essential pillars in the global pursuit of advancing democratic values and their fiduciary role in holding governments accountable cannot be overstated. International support and funding are critical for their effectiveness and safety. Everyone has a unique opportunity to contribute their voice and effort to strengthening global stability and upholding democratic principles. In a global environment marked by proven human rights violations and tragic human costs, a glaring worldwide trend has emerged the degradation of lives and growth of authoritarianism. Beyond the immediate violence, a more subtle threat is also emerging. Democracies, once champions of free speech and open criticism, are today performing a deceitful dance. They establish rules that meet the minimum necessary for a functioning society, thereby resulting in a facade of tolerance. However, beneath this smokescreen, they influence the rule of law, slowly limiting the usefulness of fundamental liberties. This enables authoritarian governments to silence dissenting voices, retain the appearance of democracy, and deflect international criticism. The 2024 Carter Centers Human Rights Defenders Forum (HRDF) recently emphasised this issue of the devastating human costs of global conflicts and human rights violations, and the urgent need for diplomacy and peaceful dialogue. This crisis is a potent illustration of how the erosion of the civic space can have deadly consequences, and a cautionary tale to the world stage. Human rights defenders (HRDs) are encountering an increasingly hostile environment for themselves and their work. Approximately 85 per cent of the worlds population lives in nations with inadequate civic spaces, making activism dangerous. This discrepancy is more pronounced in the Sahel, where militarism trumps civil society. Myanmar also illustrates this savagery, as do the massive human rights atrocities recorded in Sudan and Ethiopia. Women HRDs and LGBTI people are particularly vulnerable; they are targeted due to social stigma and face increasing discrimination, harassment and abuse on media platforms. This climate of fear takes a toll on the mental health of these brave individuals, highlighting the critical link between well-being and human rights work. In this critical situation, over 80 HRDs from 40 countries dedicated to protecting human rights, both locally and worldwide, met at the HRDF to increase solidarity in the face of unprecedented challenges. The 2024 HRDF, with the theme Unchanging Principles for Changing Times, traversed the intricacies of todays global human rights scene. The symposium focused on climate change and environmental justice, digital rights and information integrity, and locally led and inclusive development, all of which are critical battlegrounds in the greater fight for human rights and democratic principles in an ever-changing world. The HRDFs solidarity and friendship increased the power of unity and collective action. The forum featured speakers such as Anna Margarita, who was president of Nicaraguas progressive political party, the Sandinista Renovation Movement, from 2012 to 2017, and faced increasing obstacles during the 2018 civic insurrection. Anna, who was dedicated to peaceful civic opposition in the face of escalating official repression, was wrongfully detained in June 2021. Following a widely criticised and unjust trial, she was released by the government in February 2023, only to be deported into exile and stripped of her citizenship and legal identity. Annas experience, which includes 20 months of solitary confinement, underscores the enormous human cost of such persecution. Similarly, Befekadu Hailu experienced persistent persecution for his advocacy, and went through four wrongful prosecutions, making him spend 596 days in jail without being convicted. Four Turkish human rights defenders were jailed in 2017 and released in July 2020, following the determination of wrongful convictions. These stories demonstrate the structural challenges that HRDs encounter. The suspension of the HRDF in 2019 was inspired by solidarity with activists affected by the crises in Israel, Gaza, Ukraine, and Russia, demonstrating the worldwide effect of this movement. This decision acknowledges the pervasive influence of global strife in defending human rights worldwide and advocating for inclusive approaches that equip HRDs with the tools to protect and empower local voices in the pursuit of justice and equality. Human rights, which are essential to accountability, peace, and justice, are under growing assault as governments employ laws to punish people. Authorities frequently invoke national security, public safety, and the prevention of misinformation to justify internet shutdowns and other restrictive measures that limit the digital civic space. In 2023 alone, there were 283 documented shutdowns in 39 countries, primarily during protests (63 shutdowns in 15 countries), incidents of human rights violations (51 shutdowns in 11 countries), and elections (five shutdowns in five countries). The Internet Society recorded 22 deliberate shutdowns in 12 countries during the first quarter of 2024. These shutdowns stifle political discourse, limit access to information, promote censorship, exacerbate economic inequality, and increase digital divides, hampering national growth. This troubling tendency reveals governments eagerness to consolidate power by enacting measures to maintain control and suppress dissent at the price of fundamental rights. However, the Arab Springs legacy remains, demonstrating peoples ability to resist authoritarian governments, even in nations where authorities have typically monopolised media channels and controlled narratives through punitive measures against dissent. Leading diplomatic efforts to counteract systemic manipulation is critical for global human rights and accountability. While human rights defenders and civil society coalitions aggressively advocate and mobilise to protect democracy and human rights around the world, authoritarian authorities respond by enacting and changing laws, as well as limiting network operations. With growing privacy and protection issues, as well as data access without consent, 156 countries have approved cybercrime legislation, while 137 of 194 have adopted Data Protection Acts to protect citizens privacy. However, the convergence of data protection, monitoring activities, and cybercrime legislation with restricted civic spaces presents a difficulty. In Nigeria, the Lawful Interception of Communications Regulations, 2019 conflicted with guaranteed fundamental liberties, raising concerns about privacy rights. Similarly, controversial legislation punishing offensive communication, hate or insulting speech, and misleading or fictitious data is being enacted in countries such as Uganda (Computer Misuse (Amendment) Bill 2022), Kenya (Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act 2018), Tanzania (Cybercrimes Act 2015), Benin (Digital Code 2018), and others. With all this, security agencies are often vague and exploit such laws, impacting press freedom and human rights. Journalists exposing corruption are increasingly targeted under these laws. In over 45 countries, Pegasus spyware, sold to governments for lawful use, has been documented as fueling the political persecution of HRDs and journalists in Nigeria alone, at least 25 persons have faced prosecution since 2015. States have shown far more interest in legislation that protect citizens right to access information under the guise of national security interests. In Zambia, despite President Hakainde Hichilemas campaign promises to get rid of draconian laws, the Cybercrime Act still symbolises the closing of the civic space. Negotiations on the proposed United Nations (UN) cybercrime treaty have also highlighted tensions between authoritarian governments and liberal democracies, with critics warning that it might justify authoritarian control under the name of cybersecurity, while further restricting human liberties. Protecting democracy necessitates strong digital security, not at the expense of citizens privacy, but through clear reporting channels for online threats and abuse. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Amid democratic backsliding, there is hope, as law, often a tool of oppression, can also be harnessed for liberation through collective action and solidarity. The 2023 World Justice Projects Rule of Law index reflects the troubling trend whereby judicial independence faces mounting threats, exacerbated by external interference. The disparities in how justice is executed globally need to be equal, notably in the global north and global south. For example, in Cambodia, political influence is used to secure impunity for the well-connected and to silence HRDs, while Estonia operates a forward-thinking procedure that slashes civil case durations by a third. Human rights activists face a difficult battle against the states takeover of legal institutions. Championing sound legal and policy advocacy is crucial in the fight against authoritarian governments that undermine the rule of law. We can protect civic space and fundamental freedoms around the world by documenting human rights violations and pursuing effective litigation. Vince Warren of the Center for Constitutional Rights emphasised the need for cross-border mobilisation and legal reforms to ensure justice and judicial independence. He pointed out that, States dont have rights; states have power. People have rights. Shifting power from the state to the people is essential for building stronger societies. HRDs and civil society organisations (CSOs) as essential pillars in the global pursuit of advancing democratic values and their fiduciary role in holding governments accountable cannot be overstated. International support and funding are critical for their effectiveness and safety. Everyone has a unique opportunity to contribute their voice and effort to strengthening global stability and upholding democratic principles. We can protect fundamental freedoms and make governance work for citizens everywhere by implementing compelling public awareness programmes (such as Voice2Rep, which impacts the music and advocacy landscape and has produced and disseminated over 100 songs in Liberia, Mali, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zimbabwe with tracks such as Cills All Youve Got, gaining recognition, being sampled in documentaries and featured in global advocacy campaigns, reaching millions worldwide), collaborating within and outside of government, and maintaining a constant feedback loop. In this conflict, our greatest strengths will be compassion and solidarity, ensuring that the principles of peace and justice prevail in changing circumstances. Odeh Friday is a human rights activist, anticorruption advocate, and the country director of Accountability Lab Nigeria. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print During the speech, I wondered why a Tricolore was flying until I realised that PBATs flag was neither French, since that is horizontal, and not Russian, since the order of the positions of the colours differed. His was Red, Blue and White, which an influencer friend told me represented the three arms of our military forces: Army, Airforce, and Navy, over which PBAT is the Commander-in-Chief Do we really need these flags at our national addresses? It was great that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) finally chose to speak to Nigerians. Like his predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari (PMB), he is lacking in the critical duty of speaking to Nigerians, including through press dialogues. On this occasion, a much earlier address could have doused some tension. Speak to Nigerians, as I used here, makes a lot of difference in comparison to what we eventually got. However, after listening to the Presidential Address to the nation at 7 a.m., on Sunday, 4 August, I concluded that it was a waste of my time. The presidential speech was leaked the day before and was shared on social media platforms, including X and WhatsApp. I thought it was fake news like the earlier contrite speech that I knew could not be from a PBAT who looks down on us all, as he does what he wants without caring about due diligence procedures in a good polity. Or how do we explain his following President Muhammadu Buharis style of disappearing into Europe on private visits with the Nigerian jet, without following the constitutionally expected processes involved. Or even the opaque contracts of his administration on many aspects of the Renewed Hope agenda. As such, to listen to a speech that I had already read all over again was very boring. I am used to speeches being given in advance to media houses but under an embargo to use only after the delivery. I had thought the Special Advisers would have restructured the same speech, but a friend told me that the leak was part of a communication strategy. These little acts of serial leaks of important information and documents appearing ingenious, robs the government of the trust of the governed. For me, the speech was simple. PBAT chose to reaffirm to us that he is/was very right. He made no mistakes that needed corrections. Only ill-intentioned miscreants are the problem because all will be well in the long run, notwithstanding Geoff Manns book with the title to the effect that in the long run, we are all dead. For PBAT, corruption is a mere leakage in Nigeria. Furthermore, theres nothing to worry about in terms of profligacy, whether it is with respect to the billions being spent to refurbish the homes of the President and Vice-President or the acquisition of jet(s) etc., once fertilisers are being delivered to some farmers. Some would have us believe that the President has no control over the National Assembly and could do nothing about budget padding. But he got the Assembly to ratify the restoration of our old National Anthem within a week. Constituency projects, whether the values run in billion or half a billion or N300 million, depending on the s/elected officials rankings in the National Assembly, are not of concern since the minimum wages of N70,000 had been signed and neither should we raise issues about the purchasing power of the sum, in comparison with the pre-PBAT time in office, when it was just N30,000. Or the official and private travels galore for all, including meetings planned for the US, UK, etc. These travels are apparently very necessary for the foreign direct investments that are announced to be trickling in and which will soon start a torrential flow to stabilise the naira. With his silence, it is suggestive that the number of Ministers of and Ministers for are yet to be at the optimum for a country of Nigerias size, as we still need the Ministry of Renewed Hope. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later for me, the height of the speech that had lost originality since I read it on the previous day, was the Tricolour Red-Blue-White flag flowing along with the Green-White-Green. This sparked some inquisition, and as they say, we learn everyday. Three friends, including a respected former boss of mine, a lover of Nigeria born into another country, had engaged me with WhatsApp postings on the tricolour flags, especially as protesters in Kano held the Russian version The Address paid little attention, if at all, to the needs of the day that necessitated the mass protest actions that got out of hand in some states of northern Nigeria. The removal of customs duties on medicine and foods are very welcomed only if they translate into trickling down to the ordinary Nigerians in need. The President repeated Mr Wale Edun, the minister of Finance, who had informed us of a presumed reduction in our debt service ratio. But this would be great if true, but it is yet to affect the cost of borrowing. Economists can help analyse what is actually happening, as the PBAT government has joined the style of future sales of crude oil. This approach hides the exact quantum of our debt requiring interest payments. PBATs call on Nigerians to demand from state and local governments what the governors and chairmen are doing with the allocations to them was salutary. He could do more by funding civil society organisations to boost the demands of accountability on those two tiers of government. It is a duty to ensure that federal funds are not just converted into dollars and shipped off for storage in places covered by the Panama, Paradise and Pandora types of papers. However, for me, the height of the speech that had lost originality since I read it on the previous day, was the Tricolour Red-Blue-White flag flowing along with the Green-White-Green. This sparked some inquisition, and as they say, we learn everyday. Three friends, including a respected former boss of mine, a lover of Nigeria born into another country, had engaged me with WhatsApp postings on the tricolour flags, especially as protesters in Kano held the Russian version and three young male Nigerians cried vociferously to President Vladimir Putin to intervene in Nigeria, claiming that we need his help. There are protocol and diplomatic etiquette issues that guide flying the flags of countries. While there are general principles, some countries have specific rules. For instance, when many flags are displayed, there are positioning rules that are stipulated and followed. It tends to be in an alphabetical order at UN meetings. When being hosted by a nation, different rules apply, depending on guidance from state protocol authorities. In some cases, for some countries, there may be associated crimes with mistreating national flags. Having the US and UK flags flying and not the Russian, Chinese, South African, and Indian ones, etc., amounts to what could be interpreted as reinforcing colonial mentality. When a sovereign or a diplomat of another country is in attendance at a meeting, it may be in order to have the flag of such a sovereign or diplomat displayed. Knowing that the Tricolore did not amount to dual citizenship on the part of PBAT was a relief to me. However, this clarity leaves the analytical questions raised by my former boss unanswered. Is it that Kano-based Nigerians are moving towards Russia? How would the West view this? Can PBAT afford such an embarrassment, given his very clear orientation towards the West? In some international hotels, they abuse diplomatic protocol while hoisting the flags of some nations without respect to any rules. Some hotels hoist these flags presumably on the basis of the nationalities staying in the hotels on a particular day. However, most countries would ignore the ignorance of hotels. During the speech, I wondered why a Tricolore was flying until I realised that PBATs flag was neither French, since that is horizontal, and not Russian, since the order of the positions of the colours differed. His was Red, Blue and White, which an influencer friend told me represented the three arms of our military forces: Army, Airforce, and Navy, over which PBAT is the Commander-in-Chief. President Muhammadu Buhari, in his own case, had used the Army Green, instead of Red. Do we really need these flags at our national addresses? Do we not all know that our President is the father of the nation and Commander-in-Chief? Are these colours meant to be a diversionary communication strategy? Knowing that the Tricolore did not amount to dual citizenship on the part of PBAT was a relief to me. However, this clarity leaves the analytical questions raised by my former boss unanswered. Is it that Kano-based Nigerians are moving towards Russia? How would the West view this? Can PBAT afford such an embarrassment, given his very clear orientation towards the West? I thought the symbolism of Russian flags among protesters in Kano may simply be the influence of a seeming revolutionary outburst of the Confederation of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger Republics aka, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) that the empty bravado of the PBAT-led ECOWAS had pushed into the embrace of Russian forces, thereby reinforcing what may be the dwindling relevance of ECOWAS in the world. The AES had wanted the assistance of understanding neighbours to resist the continuation of colonisation and insecurity in the Sahel, as opposed to giving them lectures on civil rule deceptively tagged as democracy. My simplistic explanation of the influence of the AES on Nigerians in Kano may be a result of the sympathy feelings of Kano residents towards their brethren across the artificial borders. During the tense days in Niger Republic, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, as the Khalifa of the huge Tijanniya sect, had received a tumultuous welcome in Niger Republic, when respected Nigerian/ECOWAS delegations were given cold shoulders. This was long before the tense politicised traditional diarchy of two Emirs, who are cousins, over Kano, which may be contributing to the wild protestation and looting in Kano and beyond. Of course, untamed corruption depriving the young ones in northern Nigeria of appropriate socialisation for todays productive world, can only provide more violently hungry and angry youths. There can be no security and development in Nigeria until we have leadership types that are imbued with reduced greed that can organise our youths, for productive life. The recommendations in my earlier message titled: Dear President Tinubu: How to avoid Gen-Z Protests, subsists in spite of the unfortunate and undesirable violent protests, that resulted in avoidable deaths, as well as the looting of public and private properties. Babafemi A. Badejo, author of a best-seller on politics in Kenya, was a former deputy special representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, and currently a legal practitioner and professor of Political Science and International Relations, Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Nigeria. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Yoruba has transversed beyond mere language or the description of a certain set of people with shared origins. It has evolved into an ideology and conceptualisation bloc with cultural specificity that marks those who subscribe to it as distinct from others. This cultural and ideological framework has transcended Nigeria, becoming a global heritage that continues to shape the worlds ideological dispositions. As a result, studying the intricacies of Yoruba culture and its ideological developments over generations has become globally necessary and relevant. As these studies enhance the understanding and extension of Yoruba epistemology with contemporary diversities, they contribute to the gradual expansion of the global value system. In their well-formulated concept of Omoluwabi, now routinely stated but hardly used, the Yoruba are portrayed as distinguished for their integrity and commitment to doing what is right, avoiding otiose tendencies that could harm the citizens. Their core values and traditions uphold the concerns for an ideal societal system that cares for its citizens and contributes to common goals. The need to create more windows into Yoruba culture and make its concepts and knowledge that are not too colloquial more accessible to ordinary citizens of the world is the driving force behind the Seventh Atanda Lectures and Conference, which will be held from 5 to 7 August at Lead City University, Ibadan. This conference aims to put the Yoruba culture and ideology under the radar and lens to extract an understanding of its activism dispositions over the century. Today, the world is riddled with complications and challenges, prompting the search for solutions and sparking agitation. Several social ideals have abnormally been undermined by the gradual change in conceptual holdings and the unfair aspirations of some over others, putting many of the underprivileged majority at a disadvantage. This conference seeks to explore the enduring activist ideals of Yoruba culture, which have withstood time and opposition and continue to impose their conceptualizations on many Yoruba individuals. The conference aims to highlight the history, knowledge, concepts, people, and institutions of Yoruba origin both past and contemporary that promote social sanity, good governance, peaceful coexistence, democracy, stability, and the welfare of society in general. How do the Yoruba disagree? Are there constructive dispositions and pointers to rebellious tendencies and disagreements? How do they express their disappointment? These questions form the basis of many other subjects that will be discussed at the conference. Yoruba culture largely depends on figurative expressions and specific anecdotes to pass across some messages against some acts or subjects they disagree with. This is the concept behind the sayings such as ija lo de, lorin dowe (disagreement makes a song inciting) and orin nin siwaju ote (songs are the pointers of disputes). These expressions illustrate the Yoruba approach to nonviolent disagreements and conflicts and how they communicate dissatisfaction to the other party. The right and instinct to disagree have always been part of the Yoruba cultural upbringing, taught directly or indirectly to children as they grow up. These principles are then applied to more complex situations, including intergroup or inter-communal relationships. The Omoluabi behavioural concept of the Yoruba emphasises respect, peace, and orderliness while also encompassing the ability to disagree with unsettling attitudes and actions within the confines of cultural parameters. This principle is reflected in the approaches taken in the precolonial disagreements among communities of Yoruba origin, such as the Owu War of the early nineteenth century, which saw the alliance of some groups that believed that some fundamental wrongs had been done to the people. This concept also reveals the reasons behind various other civil wars in Yoruba history. More particularly, the instinct to preserve integrity and communal rights was the basis for the Yoruba resistance and agitation against other ethnic groups that undermined their dominance and sovereignty, as well as values core to Yoruba custom. They were never afraid to fight when needed and were always ready to speak out when necessary. The Yorubas activist spirit also manifested in their resistance to colonial conquests during the colonial era. The British took over many Yoruba settlements without resistance, as such actions contradicted the core values of sovereignty and ridiculed the societal ethos held by the Yoruba people at the time. Yoruba leadership was not ready to be second-class citizens, as this ran contrary to their cultural conceptions. In line with this, the conference will examine subjects like the 1945 workers general strike on the cost of living and Herbert Ogundes role, resistance to unfavourable levies and taxation during colonial rule, and the tabloid press and protests predominant in Abeokuta and Lagos. These topics will be discussed to understand how these passions were expressed historically and how they are represented in contemporary societies. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Beyond these, the Yoruba concept of protest and resistance has been reflected in many literary expressions, both written and oral. Yoruba drama and books on various aspects of Yoruba culture, occurrences, and concepts often address situations with the original Yoruba convictions of protest. Many literary works and books written, especially during the early periods of Nigerian independence and those reeling into contemporary Nigeria, reflect the Yoruba approach to protests and disagreement with authorities and activities within the confines of the Yoruba traditional approaches. To maintain these spirits in the face of unpleasant situations, Yoruba culture instils these values in every individual, regardless of gender or age. This is why, at some points, agents of social change within Nigerian history have included women from both elite and low-influence groups that protested despicable situations. One notable example was the womens protest against the colonial governments imposition of unreasonable taxes on Egba women, led by Mrs Ransome Kuti. Throughout Nigerian history, several individuals and groups have epitomised Yoruba activism, championing protests and transformational agitations. Yoruba history is marked by the bravery of figures like Wole Soyinka, whose historical feat has attracted different perspectives on scholarships in contemporary society. During the countrys process of national discovery and development, figures such as Obafemi Awolowo, Gani Fawehinmi, Femi Falana, and Fela Anikulapo raised critical questions and drove change, reflecting the inquisitive and resistant dispositions deeply embedded in the cultural and traditional properties of the Yoruba people. The spirit of Yoruba activism is evident in contemporary figures such as Sunday Igboho and Omoyele Sowore, whose contributions, criticisms, and beliefs are rooted in the cultural and behavioural models embedded in Yoruba culture. This spirit has also inspired various groups and institutions to speak the truth to power and champion nationalist causes of development. From ancient societal egbes to the Egbe Agba o Tan, Egbe Atunluse, and Egbe Afenifere, which fronted cultural and developmental blueprints of the nation to the Agbekoya movements and the Oduduwa People Congress and many other current protest groups that sought national transformation, the Yoruba conviction of activism has endured through time. Understanding how this activism culture has been transmitted from the past to the present is a crucial subject of conversation among scholars with a deep understanding of Yoruba history. The Seventh Atanda Conference will unravel the connecting factors of the Yoruba activism spirit, its contributions to nation-building, and its contemporary relevance. This is particularly important given the emerging national and international issues that demand both individual and collective attention. The conference aims to provide solutions to many of these problems through the lens of Yoruba activism. Additionally, it aims to expand the scope of Yoruba epistemology and understand the changes it has undergone in contemporary contexts. Scholars at the conference will examine whether these developments have been progressive or regressive and assess the current relevance of Yoruba culture, especially from the perspective of resilience. I offer my congratulations to the Atanda family for keeping alive the memory of Professor Atanda; Professor Godwin Emmanuel Oyedokun, the Chair of the Conference Organising Committee and all his team members, the close to three hundred participants, and Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor of Lead City University. The programme and book of abstracts are HERE. Toyin Falola, a professor of History, University Distinguished Teaching Professor, and Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair in the Humanities at The University of Texas at Austin, is the Bobapitan of Ibadanland. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print President Bola Tinubus address to the nation on Sunday offers an opportunity for a pan-Nigerian dialogue for good governance, the Director-General of Micheal Imoudu National Institute for Labour Institute (MINILS), Issa Aremu, has said. Mr Aremu made the observation on Tuesday while speaking with PREMIUM TIMES in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital. He said that while periodic crises are defining features of nation-building, what is of relevance are the lessons learnt by the government and the citizens that move the nation forward at every crisis point. According to the former labour union leader, President Tinubus address showed that he heard loud and clear, understands the pain and frustration that drive the protests, and also made a firm commitment to address the concerns of our citizens. Mr Aremu, therefore, advised that good statesmanship on the part of the listening president must be complemented with constructive citizenship through social dialogue for good governance. I have no doubt that the protesting compatriots also heard the president calling for conversation; let them seize the window and table all issues to promote good governance, he said. Mr Aremu urged the government and citizens not to miss another opportunity to forge an alliance for repositioning Nigeria for food security, mass job creation and poverty eradication. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later He said the list of government interventions in the presidents address, such as the students loan scheme, improved minimum wage, CNG transport system and improved public revenue, shows that there is already a movement towards good governance. While condemning the loss of lives and violent attacks on public asserts in some states, Mr Aremu called for a deepening of the democratic process and not its subversion. Given the antics of some misguided youths calling for the return of the discredited military dictatorship, it is time for a mass literacy campaign on the imperatives of democracy for good governance, he said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Zamfara chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned protesters attack on the partys state secretariat. This is contained in a statement issued in Gusau on Monday by the State APC Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Idris. The Zamfara chapter of the APC has condemned the attack on its state secretariat today, Monday, by miscreants who have taken over the nationwide hunger/economic hardship protests in the state. We recalled that the APC on Friday, cautioned the state government against allowing thugs from venting their anger on the APC and its leaders. Recently, thugs used the same protests to attack the residence of Sen. Sahabi Yau (APC-Zamfara North) in Kaura Namoda and the attempt to raze the residence of the immediate past Governor, Bello Matawalle, in Gusau, Mr Idris said. He further said that the party had also pleaded with security agencies to ensure the full protection of peoples lives and property. The most unfortunate incident happened today, Monday when the hoodlums in the name of protests forcefully broke into the APC Secretariat situated along Sokoto Bye Pass Road, Gusau. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Mr Idris added that the protesters destroyed the facility, including glasses and doors, and carted away furniture, equipment, and building materials that were kept in the offices stores. They also looted the mini secretariat at the back of the main office, where all the furniture, computers, refrigerators and other valuables were carted away. This is unacceptable and condemnable. We are calling on the security agencies to immediately apprehend and bring the perpetrators of this dastardly act to book We caution our members, supporters and well-wishers to continue to remain peaceful and law-abiding, Mr Idris explained. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Kaduna was calm on Tuesday as the residents were complying with the 24-hour curfew imposed on the city and Zaria on Monday. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the state government had declared the curfew in response to the breakdown of law and order when hoodlums hijacked the #endbadgovernance protests. In the ensuing melee, the hoodlums vandalised and looted various public and private property, including one of the commercial banks in the city. NAN correspondents who monitored the compliance level of the curfew learnt that the residents have stayed indoors, with the exception of some few individuals seen in the vicinity of their residences. NAN also observed that a mobile team of military men on dozens of motorcycles and patrol vans were seen patrolling the streets, enforcing compliance. Also, stationary combined teams of security personnel, including the police, NSCDC, and other plain-clothes operatives, were seen keeping vigil and enforcing compliance across the city. Another mobile team of police officers was seen moving and asking the residents to stay indoors so as not to violate the curfew order. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later NAN also learnt that some Nigerian Air Force helicopters and fighter jets were conducting aerial patrols, surveillance, and reconnaissance. One of the residents interviewed by NAN said, The curfew will affect our lives, but we welcome it. Majority of us dont support the destruction of public and private property in the name of protests although Nigerians are really suffering. Some of the security agents who spoke to NAN on the condition of anonymity expressed happiness with the level of compliance by the residents. The spokesperson of the Kaduna State Police Command, Mansir Hassan, told NAN on Tuesday, There is compliance with the curfew order. The residents are cooperating with the security agencies, urging the residents to exercise patience and obey law and order. A NAN Correspondent in Zaria also reports that there was a high level of compliance with the curfew by the residents, saying, everywhere is peaceful and calm. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Three mobile courts in Kano State on Tuesday ordered the remand of 632 protesters for alleged vandalism of public and government properties during the #Endbadgovernance nationwide protest. The defendants are charged with criminal conspiracy, theft, unlawful assembly, inciting disturbance, trespass and mischief by fire. Senior Magistrates Ibrahim Mansur-Yola, Senior Magistrate Hadiza Rabiu-Bello, and Chief Magistrate Abba Muttaka-Dandago presided over the courts. The court adjourned sitting until 19 August for hearing. The State Director, Public Prosecution (DPP) of Kano State, Salisu Tahir, informed the court that the defendants committed the alleged offences on 1 August. He alleged that on the same date, the defendants, during the #EndBadGovernance nationwide protests, trespassed, vandalised government and public properties in the state. The defendants broke into peoples shops and looted their goods, the DPP told the courts. The prosecutor said that the offences contravened the provisions of sections 97, 287, 229, 336, 349 and 247 of the Penal Code. While some of the defendants pleaded guilty, others pleaded not guilty to the charges. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Speaking to journalists after the court sitting, the Kano State Attorney General, Haruna Isa-Dederi, said the state government constituted three mobile courts to prosecute the defendants. READ ALSO: Protesters off Kano streets as soldiers patrol major markets I pleaded with the Kano State Chief Judge to allow the constitution of three special courts within the premises of the state police command because of the number of defendants involved. Mr Isa-Dederi noted that the case diary would be studied and appropriate advice given by the Ministry of Justice before the next adjourned date. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Kano State Government says the curfew in the state is now from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, pending when the security situation improves in the state. The states Commissioner of Police, Salma Dogo, announced this on Tuesday after Governor Abba Yusuf presided over the State Security Council meeting. He said the curfew was adjusted to restore normalcy in the state. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the state government imposed a 24-hour curfew across the state for safety during the ongoing nationwide protests. Mr Dogo said that the governor, after intensive deliberations with the members of the state security council, decided to review the curfew from 6 a.m. to 6 pm. He urged the residents to cooperate with the security personnel deployed in and outside the metropolis as peace was being gradually restored in the state. Mr Dogo explained that the security agencies would be visible in all parts of the state to ensure law and order. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later READ ALSO: Kano mobile courts remand 632 protesters He urged the residents to return to their various homes by 6 p.m. and assured them that the curfew would be reviewed as the security situation improved. Mr Dogo said the governor also appealed to the residents to continue to pray for peace, progress and political stability in Kano State and the nation at large. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A member of the House of Representatives, Alhassan Doguwa, has asked the former governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and a member of the House, Abdulmummin Jibrin, to stop inciting the people of the state against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu. Mr Doguwa, who represents the Doguwa/Tudun Wada Federal Constituency of Kano State, said this in a statement to PREMIUM TIMES. The legislator said Mr Kwankwaso, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, was caught on camera denigrating the APC and its leaders ruling. Kano State has become the epicentre of violent protests in the past few days, with some protesters looting shops, forcing the state government to declare a curfew. The #EndBadGovernance protests have mainly been peaceful around the country; however, the protesters have been looting in Kano and some states. In the statement, Mr Doguwa, a former leader of the House, said the people must bear with President Tinubu to fix the country. He asked Mr Kwakwaso to resist inciting the people against the APC and the Tinubu administration. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later You may recall that recently, Kwankwaso, the self-acclaimed national leader of the opposition NNPP, was seen in a viral video abusing all the leaders of the APC in Kano State, of which I am one. He called us Banzaye in Hausa stupid people. I appeal to him (Kwankwaso) to stop inciting the youths into taking the law into their own hands by making unruly public pronouncements capable of breaching law and order in the state, he said. I was your godfathers colleague in the Third Republic Doguwa tells Jibrin Mr Doguwa, who also served in the House in the Third Republic, rejected a warning from Mr Jibrin, representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency of Kano State in the lower on the platform of the NNPP, to desist from insulting Mr Kwankwaso. He said the former governor was his colleague in the lower chamber while the republic lasted between 1991 and 1992. He also described Mr Jibrin as a poor student of history and that he should have known his (Doguwa) history with Mr Kwankwaso. Mr Doguwa insisted that Mr Kwankwaso must respect the President and leaders of the ruling party because respect is earned. Kwankwaso must also be advised to shun or desist from his present attitude of abusing or embarrassing our national leaders of the APC, sometimes even making negative insinuations against His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and making wrongful indictments against the APC government. If Kwankwaso wants to be respected, he should also respect others. Respect, they say, is reciprocal. He must also respect other leaders who are, by all standards, not his mates, Mr Doguwa said. Doguwa seeks to impress Tinubu Jibrin When PREMIUM TIMES contacted Mr Jibrin for comment, he said Mr Kwankwaso was a peace-loving politician, adding that Mr Doguwa was seeking political relevance by mentioning Mr Kwankwasos name. He also said the former House Leader abused Mr Kwankwaso to impress Mr Tinubu. The public should see Alhassans wild allegation for what it is a last-ditch attempt to seek relevance and curry favour by dragging Kwankwasos name to impress some leaders in Abuja, thereby positioning himself as his partys leader in Kano. It is a circus we have become used to and will not succeed. The plan is simply to Knock Kwankwasos head with Tinubu as the only way to get federal support. That is the grand scheme on display in Kano today. We will do anything within the law and within our powers to repel this blackmail, Mr Jibrin said in a statement signed on his behalf by his media aide, Sani Paki. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Igbo leaders have given reasons why South-east residents shunned the ongoing nationwide protest against economic hardship in Nigeria. Igbo is an ethnic group dominant in Nigerias south-east. The protest The ongoing #EndBadGovernance protest, which began on Thursday, was billed to last until 10 August. It has been ongoing across states in five of the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. PREMIUM TIMES reports that the protest has not been held in the South-east since the exercise kicked off. Were usually at receiving end In an interview with PREMIUM TIMES on Tuesday, Damian Okeke-Ogene, the national vice president of the Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, said the South-east shunned the protest because they usually bear the brunt of such exercise in Nigeria. Mr Okeke-Ogene said the South-east believed in the leadership of late President-General of Ohanaeze, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who he said, before his death on 25 July, asked Igbos to shelve the protest to avoid being the scapegoats. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later He (Iwuanyanwu) asked them not to join the protest because we have had this kind of protest and we (Igbos) are usually at the receiving end in every protest (in Nigeria), he said. The Ohanaeze leader said, after the death of Mr Iwuanyanwu, he (Okeke) re-echoed the call for Igbos to shun the exercise. He stated that he equally asked Igbos residing in other regions to shelve the protest and mobilise security operatives to guard their shops against looting. We know that the federal government is not ready to protect their properties because if they (Igbos) go out for a hunger protest, they (protesters) will loot your shops, the vice president said. Weve cried enough for relevance, equal treatment On his part, the new Chairperson of the South-east Traditional Rulers Council, Emmanuel Okeke, suggested that the South-east shunned the protest for a variety of reasons. Mr Okeke told PREMIUM TIMES on Tuesday that the people of the region had become tired of seeking freedom, relevance and equal treatment in Nigeria. The traditional ruler said the region has also been frustrated with their failed quest to produce Nigerias president. So, now we have cried enough. We have been cheated enough. We dont have anything to do. So, we instead kept quiet and started praying to our God. Whenever God feels to answer us. We are descendants of Israelites, he will answer us, he said. So, there is no need for us (Igbos) to start making noise or start protesting against the government or creating violence, which we have been pleading to our people against for long, said Mr Okeke, who is also the chairperson of the Imo State Traditional Rulers Council. Past experiences Also speaking, the immediate past Chairperson of the South-east Traditional Rulers Council, Samuel Asadu, said the South-east shunned the protest because of the way they were badly treated in the past. (They shunned the protest due to) grace of God and going by their past experiences in such protests, he said without giving details. Continuing, Mr Asadu said: Again, the South-easterners are industrious people. They are mainly business people. Mr Asadu, who is the chairperson of Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, told PREMIUM TIMES on Monday that he and other South-east leaders also helped to appeal to Igbos to shun the protest in the region. The traditional ruler added that the outstanding performances of the South-east governors, the move to create an additional state in the region and the recent establishment of the South East Development Commission must have combined to discourage Igbos from joining in the civic action. All these are soothing nerves. They were designed to soothe the nerves of South-easterners, Mr Asadu argued. IPOB speaks The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has also spoken on why residents of the South-east are shunning the protest. IPOB is a group seeking to create an independent state of Biafra from the south-east and some parts of south-south Nigeria. In a statement by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, on Monday, the separatist group argued that the Igbos shunned the protest because they usually end up being victims of such exercise. Though Ndigbo are facing the same economic hardship that (President Bola) Tinubus government has imposed on Nigerians, however, to avoid being targeted as always, they decided to shun the protest, Mr Powerful said. The IPOB spokesperson claimed, without evidence, that the protest was organised by other ethnic nationalities to lure Igbos into destruction. Before the protest PREMIUM TIMES reported that some South-east leaders had, earlier before the protest, warned all Igbos to shelve the protest. One of the leaders and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ben Kalu, asked Igbos to shelve the protest or risk being scapegoated. Ndigbos stay away from the protest. They will target you and they will waste you, Mr Kalu said in a viral video clip. The Abia State-born lawmaker, who represents Bende Federal Constituency in the lower chamber, told Igbos that they had died enough and should step aside in the protest. Sit at home. If theres any sit-at-home that should be effective, not the one you do on Mondays, let it be the one that will happen in this protest, he said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A Lagos High Court, at Tafawa Balewa Square, on Tuesday extended an earlier order restricting protesters in Lagos to conduct their activities only at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park and Peace Park. Justice S.I. Sonaike gave the order following an application filed by the Lagos State Attorney-General (AG) and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, for an extension of the order. The state AG had filed for an extension of the order after complying with the order of the court to ensure the safety of the protesters within the two locations ordered by the court. The state AG was represented in court by the Director for Civil Litigations, Hameed Oyenuga. Mr Oyenuga told the court that service of the earlier court order had been served on all the respondents in compliance with the pre action protocols for preemptive reliefs sought by the AG against the representatives of the protesters. He argued that though the respondents in the suit were yet to respond to the application, there is the need to extend the earlier restriction order of the protest to two venues. This is to ensure that the state can continue to enjoy the relative peace being experienced despite the ongoing protests across the country. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later In her ruling, Justice Sonaike said that she was satisfied with the AGs compliance with the order of the other vacation judge, Emmanuel Ogundare. She, therefore, ordered that the restriction of the protest to Freedom and Peace parks in the Ojota and Ketu areas of the state be extended until full compliance with the pre-action orders. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Justice Ogundare had on 30 July, while ruling on an ex parte application filed by the state AG, placed restrictions on the protesters. The AG was seeking to secure public safety and prevent irreparable loss of lives and property in the state during the period of the protests. Defendants in the application are Adamma Ukpabi and Tosin Harsogba (for Active Citizens Group), Juwon Sanyaolu and Hassan Soweto (for Take it Back Movement) and the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the Lagos State government to investigate the death of Pelumi Onifade, a 20-year-old reporter who was arrested by police during the #EndSARS protests in 2020 and later found dead at a mortuary in Ikorodu. Ayokunle Faji, a justice of the Federal High Court, in a ruling, ordered the state government to conduct a coroners inquest to determine the cause of Mr Onifades death, identify those responsible and prosecute them. A statement by the Communications Officer Media Rights Agenda, Idowu Adewale, said the court also ordered the Attorney General to take necessary steps to investigate the circumstances surrounding the journalists death. A Lagos-based lawyer, Charles Musa had filed an originating summons on 4 August 2021, on behalf of Media Rights Agenda (MRA), against the Lagos State Commissioner of Police (COP), the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Attorney General of Lagos State. In the suit, the court dismissed some of the claims against the police due to lack of evidence but noted that the Attorney General has to conduct an inquest into the circumstances of the death. The MRA, among other demands, approached the court to declare that the late Onifades shooting in Oko Oba in Agege Local Government Area of Lagos State by agents of the COP and the IGP on 24 October 2020 in the course of his work is unconstitutional and a gross violation of his fundamental rights as guaranteed by section 33 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act (Cap A9) Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. It implored the court to declare that the late Onifades arrest and unlawful or restriction of his liberty by agents of the COP and the IGP on the same date in the course of his work is unconstitutional and a gross violation of his fundamental rights as guaranteed by sections 35, 39 and 46(1) of the 1999 Constitution and Articles 5 and9 of the African Charter. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later It sought the courts declaration that the constitutional and statutory duties of the respondents do not extend to unlawful detention of innocent individuals who have not been charged to court or found guilty of any offence by a competent court of law in Nigeria. It asked the court to establish that the police commissioner and the IGP have an obligation to investigate crimes committed against Mr Onifade, a journalist, exercising his right to freedom of expression as guaranteed under Sections 33 and 39 of the Constitution and Articles 4 and 9 of the African Charter. The MRA also asked the court to issue three orders, directing the respondents to launch a transparent, impartial and independent investigation into the circumstances of the death of Mr Onifade, whose body was found in a morgue in Lagos, directing them to conduct a coroners inquest to ascertain the cause of his death; and directing them to identify and prosecute those responsible for his death. In his judgment, Mr Faji pointed out that although the police commissioner and the IGP were served with the originating summons and other processes in the suit, they did not file any response. He noted that MRAs Programme Officer, John Gbadamosi, who deposed to the affidavit in support of the suit, did not witness any of the facts relevant to the matter, adding that there was also no documentation in support of the claim that Mr Onifades corpse was deposited in a mortuary. Mr Faji observed that although there was constant reference in the affidavit to the family of the deceased, who, he said, would have the necessary information regarding their various interactions with the police, none of them filed any evidence in support of the incident. He, therefore, dismissed the claims against the police for lack of evidence. Although the judge commended the Office of the Attorney General of Lagos State for upholding the duties of the office by attending court and assisting the court in the matter, he noted that the explanation by the Attorney Generals lawyer that the reason a coroners inquest was not conducted was because the duplicate of the case file was not forwarded to his office. According to him, in response to the courts question on what the Attorney General did about the matter since being served with the court processes, the lawyer submitted that the Attorney General was ready to conduct an inquest. Mr Faji stressed that the Attorney-General is not alleged to have known about the alleged unlawful killing of the late Onifade and is also not accused of being involved in the killing, but that, as stated by MRA, he has a duty to conduct an inquest into the circumstances of the death. Indeed, in paragraph 15 of the counter affidavit, the 3rd respondent (the Attorney-General) has stated that he would prosecute anyone found to have a prima facie case established against him, he said. READ ALSO: Lagos court extends protest restriction order The late Onifade was a second-year student of the Department of History at the Tai Solarin University of Education, Ogun State, and a reporter with Gboah TV, an online television channel, at the time. He was covering the #EndSARS protests in Lagos before officers of the Lagos State Taskforce arrested him on 24 October 2020. His body was later found at a mortuary in Ikorodu, sparking concerns about police brutality and the safety of journalists in Nigeria. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Experienced Team from El Paso, Texas, Expands Their Business into Neighboring State with Leading Senior Care Franchise ROSEVILLE, Calif., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Always Best Care , one of the leading senior care franchise systems in the United States, is now serving seniors in Las Cruces, New Mexico, and surrounding communities such as Deming, La Mesa, Mesquite, Sunland Park and White Sands. Always Best Care of Las Cruces provides non-medical in-home care, senior living and memory care referrals and mobile medical alert services. Experienced local franchise owners Carlos Camacho Jr. and Karla Camacho got their start in Texas, opening Always Best Care of El Paso in 2020. The husband-and-wife team expanded that territory just two years later in response to increased senior care demand throughout the city, and now they are thrilled to be growing the business yet again into their neighboring state. "The sense of community in Las Cruces resonates deeply with Always Best Care's mission and values of providing compassionate, personalized care," said Carlos Camacho Jr., co-owner of Always Best Care in Las Cruces. "This area offers an unbeatable combination of community spirit, quality of life and growth potential that makes it the perfect location for our home care services." Always Best Care of Las Cruces also collaborates with a strong network of local healthcare providers like the renowned MountainView Regional Medical Center to ensure seamless, coordinated care for clients. "Carlos and Karla are exemplary business owners in the Always Best Care system," said Jake Brown, President and CEO of Always Best Care. "It's no surprise that their dedication to meeting the needs of the local community has resulted in continued expansion of their territories, but this newest opening in Las Cruces is not just another stop on the map for them. Like many cities all over North America, the area is experiencing significant growth of its senior population, increasing the need for reliable and compassionate senior services like Always Best Care provides." Together with their talented care team, the Camachos will ensure Las Cruces seniors have access to the care they need to live comfortably and independently in their own homes. "Karla and I are looking forward to becoming an integral part of this wonderful city and making a positive impact on the lives of its residents," added Camacho Jr. Always Best Care is one of the nation's leading providers of non-medical in-home care and senior living referral services, with skilled home health care in limited markets. The company delivers its services through an international network of more than 250 independently owned and operated franchise territories throughout the United States and Canada. By working with case managers, social workers, discharge planners, doctors, and families, Always Best Care franchise owners provide affordable, comprehensive solutions that can be specifically matched to meet a client's particular physical or social needs. Always Best Care of Las Cruces is located at 505 South Main, Ste. 134. For a care evaluation or additional information on services available, call 575-222-9623 or visit www.alwaysbestcareLasCruces.com. About Always Best Care Founded in 1996, Always Best Care Senior Services is based on the belief that having the right people for the right level of care means peace of mind for the client and family. Always Best Care has been assisting seniors with a wide range of conditions and personal needs for over 27 years and currently provides thousands of hours of care every year. Franchise opportunities are available to individuals interested in leveraging the company's clear strategy and proven track record for delivering affordable, dependable service to seniors in their local areas. Always Best Care also offers exclusive programs such as Always in Touch, Balance Tracking System, remote patient monitoring and a 24/7 Virtual Care. For more information regarding Always Best Care's solutions, visit www.alwaysbestcare.com. CONTACT: Nicole Hunnicutt Fish Consulting 404-558-4108 [email protected] SOURCE Always Best Care NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. ("AWH," "Ascend" or the "Company") (CSE: AAWH-U.CN) (OTCQX: AAWH), a multi-state, vertically integrated cannabis operator, announces expanded access in Ohio as the state allows for sales of cannabis to commence to non-medical customers. Beginning today, August 6th, the Company can sell to non-medical customers over 21 years of age at its dispensaries in Coshocton, Cincinnati, and Sandusky. The Company will also welcome non-medical customers at its dispensary in Piqua, Ohio beginning on August 7th. The Company operates1 five dispensaries in Ohio, located in Carroll, Cincinnati, Coshocton, Piqua, and Sandusky. This transition solidifies Ascend's presence in Ohio's burgeoning cannabis market, positioning it for further growth and success in the Midwest. "As we proudly announce the start of the transition of our Ohio stores to accommodate non-medical customers, we are excited about the new opportunities this brings to both Ascend and the communities we serve," said John Hartmann, CEO, Ascend. "We are well-positioned to serve both segments of the market, maintaining our commitment to our current medical patients while embracing new non-medical customers. We are committed to responsibly meeting the evolving needs of our patients and customers and dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of safety, compliance and quality. This milestone is a testament to the hard work of our team and the trust our community places in us, and we look forward to continuing to serve them with product and service excellence." With approximately $484.4 million in medical cannabis sales reported by licensed dispensaries in the state in 2023, according to the Ohio Department of Commerce, Ohio's cannabis market has demonstrated substantial potential. The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control's decision to allow existing medical cannabis dispensaries to transition to "dual-use dispensaries" enables Ascend and other licensed operators to meet the evolving needs of consumers. Ascend operates a cultivation and manufacturing facility in the state, further enhancing its capabilities in meeting the growing demand for cannabis products. The Company produces Common Goods, Simply Herb, and Ozone branded vapes, gummies, and flower in Ohio. Ascend operates1 five existing dispensaries across the state, including: Ascend Dispensary Cincinnati: 824 Reedy St, Cincinnati, OH 45202 Ascend Dispensary Coshocton: 23024 Co Rd 621 Suite 1, Coshocton, OH 43812 Ascend Dispensary Outlet Piqua: 1206 Recker Rd, Piqua, OH 45356 Ascend Dispensary Outlet Sandusky: 6019 Milan Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870 Ascend Dispensary Carroll: 3560 Dolson Ct NW # B, Carroll, OH 43112 1. Includes dispensaries owned by Ohio Patient Access, LLC. About Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. AWH is a vertically integrated operator with assets in Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. AWH owns and operates state-of-the-art cultivation facilities, growing award-winning strains and producing a curated selection of products for retail and wholesale customers. AWH produces and distributes its in-house Common Goods, Simply Herb, Ozone, Ozone Reserve, and Royale branded products. For more information, visit www.awholdings.com. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release includes forward-looking information and statements (together, "forward-looking statements"), which may include, but are not limited to, the plans, intentions, expectations, estimates, and beliefs of the Company. Words such as "expects", "continue", "will", "anticipates" and "intends" or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Without limiting the generality of the preceding statement, this news release contains forward-looking statements concerning the Company's current projections and expectations about future events and financial trends, the timely receipt of all required regulatory approvals, the timing of the launch of non-medical cannabis sales, and the general stability of the economic and political environment. We caution investors that any such forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and analysis made by the Company in light of the experience of the Company and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, and other factors management believes are appropriate. Forward-looking statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements herein. Such factors include, among others, the risks and uncertainties identified in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and in the Company's other reports and filings with the applicable Canadian securities regulators on its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and with the SEC on its profile on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such forward-looking statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements herein are made as of the date hereof, and except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the content of this news release. SOURCE Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global asphalt pumps market size is estimated to grow by USD 67.6 million from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period. Increasing investments in road infrastructure projects is driving market growth, with a trend towards emergence of smart pumps. However, availability of substitutes for asphalt poses a challenge. Key market players include AJAY ENGINEERING, Apollo Mechanical Industries, Botou Saiken Pumps Co. Ltd., CIRCOR International Inc., DESMI AS, Dover Corp., Erich NETZSCH GmbH and Co. Holding KG, Fluid Tech Systems, Gebr. Steimel GmbH and Co., Hebei Yuandong Pumps Manufacturing Co. Ltd., IDEX Corp., Kracht Corp., Leistritz Advanced Technologies Corp., Roto Pumps Ltd., ShriMaruti Precision Engineering Pvt. Ltd., SPX FLOW Inc., TriRotor Inc., ULTRA POMPE Srl, Victor Pumps Srl, and Zhejiang Shanggui Pump Industry Co. Ltd.. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global asphalt pumps market 2024-2028 Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies - Click for the snapshot of this report Forecast period 2024-2028 Base Year 2023 Historic Data 2018 - 2022 Segment Covered Product (Gear pumps, Screw pumps, and Vane pumps) and Geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa) Region Covered APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa Key companies profiled AJAY ENGINEERING, Apollo Mechanical Industries, Botou Saiken Pumps Co. Ltd., CIRCOR International Inc., DESMI AS, Dover Corp., Erich NETZSCH GmbH and Co. Holding KG, Fluid Tech Systems, Gebr. Steimel GmbH and Co., Hebei Yuandong Pumps Manufacturing Co. Ltd., IDEX Corp., Kracht Corp., Leistritz Advanced Technologies Corp., Roto Pumps Ltd., ShriMaruti Precision Engineering Pvt. Ltd., SPX FLOW Inc., TriRotor Inc., ULTRA POMPE Srl, Victor Pumps Srl, and Zhejiang Shanggui Pump Industry Co. Ltd. Key Market Trends Fueling Growth In the asphalt industry, the efficient functioning of pumps is crucial for the production process. However, these complex systems require regular maintenance to prevent breakdowns. Optimally coordinating operating parameters is essential for the pumps' smooth operation and extended service life. The emergence of digitized and IoT-based solutions, such as Kirloskar Brothers Ltd.'s KirloSmart, has revolutionized pump maintenance. This remote monitoring system enables end-users to monitor and control screw pumps remotely, receiving daily reports through a dashboard. KirloSmart's predictive maintenance capabilities allow for the estimation of future operational challenges, reducing the need for unnecessary maintenance visits. To remain competitive, major asphalt pump vendors are adopting such solutions, creating new investment opportunities in R&D within the asphalt pumps market. The Asphalt Pumps Market is projected to grow steadily, with expert analysis suggesting an upward pricing trend. Social and political factors, including infrastructure development projects, are driving demand. Regulations regarding efficiency and performance are key winning imperatives for leading players like Johnson Pump, Viking Pump, Rotan Pump, Shanggui Pumps, Yuandong Pump, Yongchang Pump, and Bolong. Inorganic growth through mergers and acquisitions is a common strategy. Current focus is on scalability and business strategy, with cutting-edge innovations in pump design, sustainability, and eco-friendly materials, such as warm mix asphalt and reclaimed asphalt pavement. Industry coverage includes various industry verticals, with emerging players making a mark. Product strategy and industry regulations remain critical. Leading players invest in R&D for efficient, high-performance pumps. Regulations favor sustainable infrastructure and eco-friendly materials. Companies are focusing on maintenance and pump design to improve efficiency and reduce downtime. The market is competitive, with Johnson Pump, Viking Pump, Rotan Pump, Shanggui Pumps, Yuandong Pump, Yongchang Pump, and Bolong leading the charge. Discover 360 analysis of this market. For complete information, schedule your consultation- Book Here! Market Challenges The asphalt pumps market faces competition from cement and concrete, which are commonly used as substitutes for asphalt in road construction. Cement, a binding component in concrete, offers durability and low maintenance costs, despite requiring high initial investments and time for construction. Concrete roads have a long lifespan of nearly 40-60 years and are less affected by weather conditions. Portland cement, a common type of cement, is suitable for general concrete constructions. In recent years, geopolymer cement concretes, manufactured using waste materials, have gained popularity due to their enhanced durability and resistance to chloride penetration and acid attack. These alternatives to asphalt pavements may hinder the demand for asphalt pumps during the forecast period. Ready-mix concrete, produced by mixing aggregates with dry Portland cement and water, offers advantages such as better quality, faster construction rate, higher energy conservation, and no chance of human error. Geopolymer cement concretes, made from waste materials like fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag, and silica fume, exhibit high durability and resistance to chloride penetration and acid attack. These alternatives contribute to the construction of pavements, water tanks, buildings, roadways, and highways, potentially reducing the need for asphalt pumps. cement, a common type of cement, is suitable for general concrete constructions. In recent years, geopolymer cement concretes, manufactured using waste materials, have gained popularity due to their enhanced durability and resistance to chloride penetration and acid attack. These alternatives to asphalt pavements may hinder the demand for asphalt pumps during the forecast period. Ready-mix concrete, produced by mixing aggregates with dry cement and water, offers advantages such as better quality, faster construction rate, higher energy conservation, and no chance of human error. Geopolymer cement concretes, made from waste materials like fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag, and silica fume, exhibit high durability and resistance to chloride penetration and acid attack. These alternatives contribute to the construction of pavements, water tanks, buildings, roadways, and highways, potentially reducing the need for asphalt pumps. The Asphalt Pumps Market faces several challenges in its product strategy and business strategy. Scalability is crucial as infrastructure development projects require large quantities of asphalt. Leading players like Johnson Pump , Viking Pump, Rotan Pump, Shanggui Pumps, Yuandong Pump , and Yongchang Pump dominate the market. Emerging players must differentiate themselves through efficient and eco-friendly pump designs. External factors such as political and social scenarios, macroeconomic analysis, and consumer buying patterns impact the market. Product pricing, maintenance, and pump performance are key considerations for end consumers and intermediaries. Sustainable infrastructure, eco-friendly materials, warm mix asphalt, and reclaimed asphalt pavement are trends shaping the market. Competitive position, historical pricing trends, and competitive advantage are essential for companies to stay ahead. Challenges include ensuring pump efficiency and performance, adapting to infrastructure development projects, and keeping up with consumer demands for eco-friendly solutions. Companies must also navigate the use of eco-friendly materials, such as warm mix asphalt and reclaimed asphalt pavement, in their product offerings. Additionally, staying competitive in the market requires a strong business strategy, effective product pricing, and a focus on consumer needs. In the Asphalt Pumps Market, companies must balance the need for scalability and efficiency with the demands for eco-friendly and sustainable solutions. Leading players like Johnson Pump , Viking Pump, Rotan Pump , Shanggui Pumps, Yuandong Pump , and Yongchang Pump have established competitive advantages through product design and performance. However, emerging players must differentiate themselves by offering eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions to gain market share. The Asphalt Pumps Market is driven by infrastructure development projects, which require large quantities of asphalt. Companies must ensure their pumps are efficient and scalable to meet the demands of these projects. Additionally, consumer demand for eco-friendly and sustainable solutions is increasing, making it essential for companies to offer products that meet these needs. Product pricing is a significant challenge in the Asphalt Pumps Market. End consumers and intermediaries are price-sensitive, and companies must offer competitive pricing while maintaining profitability. Additionally, maintaining pump performance and efficiency is crucial to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business. The use of eco-friendly materials, such as warm mix asphalt and reclaimed asphalt pavement, is a trend shaping the Asphalt Pumps Market. Companies must adapt to these trends to remain competitive and meet the demands of consumers and regulatory bodies. Political and social scenarios, macroeconomic analysis, and consumer buying patterns are external factors that impact the Asphalt Pumps Market. Companies must stay informed of these factors to effectively navigate the market and make strategic business decisions. Competitive position and historical pricing trends are essential for companies to understand their position in the market and set competitive pricing. Companies must also focus on their competitive advantage, such as product design, performance, and customer service, to differentiate themselves from competitors. In conclusion, the Asphalt Pumps Market faces challenges in scalability, product strategy, business strategy, and consumer demands for eco-friendly and sustainable solutions. Leading players must maintain their competitive advantage through product design and performance, while emerging players must differentiate themselves through cost-effective and eco-friendly solutions. Companies must also navigate external factors, such as political and social scenarios, macroeconomic analysis, and consumer buying patterns, to effectively compete in the market. For more insights on driver and challenges - Download a Sample Report Segment Overview This asphalt pumps market report extensively covers market segmentation by Product 1.1 Gear pumps 1.2 Screw pumps 1.3 Vane pumps Geography 2.1 APAC 2.2 North America 2.3 Europe 2.4 South America 2.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Gear pumps- The Asphalt Pumps Market is experiencing steady growth due to increasing construction activities worldwide. These pumps are essential for transporting hot asphalt mixture from mixers to road construction sites. Key players in this market include Schwing, Wacker Neuson, and Putzmeister. They offer various types of asphalt pumps, such as trailer-mounted and stationary, catering to diverse customer needs. Market growth is driven by infrastructure development projects and road maintenance activities. For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) - Download a Sample Report Research Analysis The Asphalt Pumps Market is a vital segment of the road construction industry, supplying equipment for the production and transportation of asphalt for various applications, including road construction, building, coating, and maintenance. Product pricing and consumer buying patterns are influenced by political and social scenarios, macroeconomic analysis, and regulations. Political instability and social unrest can impact market growth, while infrastructure development projects and maintenance requirements drive demand. Pump design focuses on efficiency, performance, and sustainability, with eco-friendly materials and warm mix asphalt gaining popularity. Reclaimed asphalt pavement is another sustainable solution for reducing the carbon footprint of the industry. Regulations and winning imperatives vary by region, with a focus on meeting environmental standards and improving overall industry performance. Strategies include innovation, collaboration, and expansion into emerging markets. Industry coverage includes market analysis, trends, and forecasts. Market Research Overview The Asphalt Pumps Market is a vital segment of the road construction industry, supplying pumps for the production and transportation of asphalt in various applications such as building, coating, and infrastructure development projects. Product pricing is influenced by consumer buying behavior, political and social scenarios, macroeconomic analysis, and external factors. Industry coverage includes inorganic growth through mergers and acquisitions, industry verticals like infrastructure development, and the competitive landscape of active players like Cutting Edge, Innovator, and Emerging players. Key factors driving market growth include the need for efficient and sustainable infrastructure, eco-friendly materials like warm mix asphalt and reclaimed asphalt pavement, and regulatory compliance. Pump design focuses on performance, scalability, and business strategy, with leading players like Johnson Pump, Viking Pump, Rotan Pump, Shanggui Pumps, Yuandong Pump, and Yongchang Pump implementing competitive advantages through innovation and efficiency. Maintenance and regulations also play a crucial role in market trends, with a current focus on reducing emissions and increasing productivity. Subject-related experts predict historical pricing trends and projected pricing trends based on industry analysis and market dynamics. Social and political factors, such as infrastructure spending and government policies, also significantly impact market growth. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Product Gear Pumps Screw Pumps Vane Pumps Geography APAC North America Europe South America Middle East And Africa 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Infiniti Research, Inc. WASHINGTON, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and National Security Innovation Network have announced that Athenium LLC of Dover, NH, won the top prize of $500,000 to help prevent rapidly increasing threats posed by illegal fishing around the globe. "The challenge winners' forecasts outperformed the historical Global Fishing Watch baseline by up to 25%," said Dr. Mike Brady, a leading research scientist at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA). The above map reflects a fishing activity forecast produced by Athenium for earlier this year in the South Pacific. Red & deep orange reflect the most active fishing locations, and light blue the least. NGA asked Athenium and dozens of other competitors in the "Grand Fishing Forecast Challenge" to design effective solutions in forecasting maritime traffic involved in illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. "Our scientists won by inventing advanced predictive analytics to integrate with Athenium's comprehensive global climate data," said Jordan Foley, President of Athenium LLC. "These forecasts can bolster conservation efforts worldwide by promoting sustainable fishing practices." Congress was told last year that illegal, unregulated fishing is a significant and growing global problem. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warned that vessels from China and six other nations were threatening oceanic ecosystems, harming law-abiding seafood producers and endangering stable food systems. The competition's organizers said they encouraged development of industrial fishing forecasts in concert with efforts by the U.S. Defense-Intelligence Community to systematically detect, track and report illegal fishing. Athenium's competitors for the top prize included international companies and research institutes specializing in oceanography and artificial intelligence. "Our fishing forecasts blend technical expertise and patented analytics with practical applications to help optimize resources across governments and industry," said Dr. Ellen Cousins, Athenium's Chief Science Officer. "We look forward to working with NGA and other DoD partners to leverage these advancements in real-time, across all oceans." She added, "Together, we can make a significant difference in combating illegal and unregulated actors." Athenium LLC is a portfolio company of In-Q-Tel, the private venture firm serving the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency and the broader intelligence community. Athenium's climate-intelligence tools and other solutions serve the U.S. Air Force, the CIA, Homeland Security and one-third of the largest property & casualty insurers in the United States. For more information about the Grand Fishing Forecast Challenge, the finalists and Athenium LLC, visit NGA News and https://www.athenium.com/. SOURCE Athenium LLC Seasoned Technology Executive Brings 25 Years of Experience to Data Driven Position COLUMBIA, Md., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Authority Brands, a franchise industry leader with a vibrant portfolio of home service brands, announced the addition of Tij Bedi as Chief Technology Officer, effective immediately. Bringing over 25 years of technology experience to his new position, Bedi will be responsible for enhancing performance resources and will oversee IT teams in order to further innovate and develop IT systems within the Authority Brands infrastructure in order to support ongoing growth. Bedi has decades-long experience in the industry with a proven track record of moving a diverse array of industries forward with business results and driving growth through innovative practices. Bringing his approach to Authority Brands, Bedi will be tasked with leading the overall technology team while integrating with other departments in order to elevate cyber security, diversify innovation approaches, and ultimately expand the overall franchise network across the United States. "Tij will join our team further fueling expansion through data-driven action and help to create more seamless franchise ownership while propelling our vision forward," said Craig Donaldson, CEO of Authority Brands. "As our Authority Brands team continues to grow and achieve success within the franchising industry, we are confident that Tij will bring a new breadth of knowledge and help us continue our upward trajectory." An engineer by education and a problem solver by interest, Tij has led companies in industries including fitness, news & media, legal, manufacturing, research and more. He has a proven track record of driving business results with technology and purposeful innovation. Most recently he worked with Gartner where he was responsible for driving client engagement & the Digital Client Experience. He received his Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Computer Technology from Nagpur University and has completed coursework at Cornell University. Combined, the Authority Brands franchise brands operate more than 2,000 locations with an expansive network of more than 1,000 franchise owners. To learn more about Authority Brands' companies and the executive team, please visit https://www.authoritybrands.com/. About Authority Brands Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, Authority Brands' companies include 16 leading home service franchise brands: America's Swimming Pool Company, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, The Cleaning Authority, Color World Painting, DoodyCalls, DRYmedic Restoration Services, Homewatch CareGivers, The Junkluggers, Lawn Squad, Mister Sparky, Monster Tree Service, Mosquito Squad, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Screenmobile, STOP Restoration, and Woofie's. Together, these brands provide home services through more than 2,000 territories operated by more than 1,000 franchise owners. Authority Brands is dedicated to supporting individual franchise owner growth by providing strong marketing, technology, and operational support. See www.authoritybrands.com for more information. Contact: Christina Rodriguez Fish Consulting 954-893-9150 [email protected] SOURCE Authority Brands, LLC External Recognition allows customers, vendors, partners, or any third-party to recognize employee efforts and service from the outside in, further enhancing a culture of appreciation. LEHI, Utah, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Awardco, the leader in employee recognition and rewards, introduced External Recognition today, further strengthening their industry-leading innovations for employee recognition, rewards, productivity, and engagement. The External Recognition feature allows customers, vendors, partners, or any third-party to recognize employee efforts and service in real-time, uniting customers and employees and strengthening value-driven cultures of recognition. See how External Recognition with Awardco works. External Recognition further extends Awardco's lead in the industry by bringing customers into employee recognition. This feature is especially impactful for front line, deskless, and all customer-facing roles as they interact with customers more than they do their own coworkers. Customers can recognize employees for exceptional service on the spot, and the recognition shows up in the Awardco recognition feed for all employees to see. Industries such as Healthcare, Retail, Food Service, Professional Services, and more will benefit from this feature as their employees can now be recognized by their customers, expanding the culture of appreciation beyond the office environment. Awardco is also debuting AI-powered recognition monitoring and approvals to ensure safe and compliant use of language that meets industry standards while saving admin's hours on approval workflows. Steve Sonnenberg, CEO of Awardco, expressed his excitement about the feature, saying, "Awardco is the leader in the employee recognition and rewards space in many ways, and we are thrilled to expand the power of recognition to the valued customers of every organization. We've already seen the power of External Recognition in our own organization, and it's incredible to see how it will impact so many different industries." External Recognition further solidifies Awardco as the industry leader in the employee recognition space, and is yet another innovation as Awardco moves forward in its mission to become the world's largest configurable marketplace designed to drive human behavior, powered by AI. To learn more about External Recognition visit http://award.co/external-recognition . About Awardco Awardco is the leading employee recognition and rewards platform that boosts employee productivity, reduces spend on disorganized rewards programs, and builds culture through value-driven recognition and rewards. As a featured partner with Amazon Business, Awardco provides the largest reward network in the world with zero markups and easy rewards management. Media Contact: Bronson Dameron Email: [email protected] SOURCE Awardco BOSTON, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Bulletproof is pleased to announce the addition of new security monitoring and response capabilities, through our Unified Security Workspace platform. We are now capable of supporting organizations that use QRadar and Splunk as Security Incident and Event Management systems and CrowdStrike Falcon as Endpoint Detection and Response platform, on their managed security journey towards a best of platform model powered by the Microsoft Security Stack. In collaboration with fellow Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA) member, ContraForce, Bulletproof has implemented the Unified Security Workspace within its managed security solution offering, Bulletproof 365 Enterprise (B365E). This platform facilitates seamless integration, resulting in a more efficient and powerful security solution. The platform can quickly connect with the customers' existing tools and empowers our SOC teams by streamlining security detection, investigation and response processes. "Partnering with a fellow MISA member, Bulletproof has been a game-changer for us at ContraForce. Their dedication to elevating security operations for Microsoft customers aligns seamlessly with our mission to simplify and enhance threat response," stated Stan Golubchik, CEO, ContraForce. Bulletproof 365 Enterprise is an end-to-end Managed Extended Detection and Response (MXDR) security solution for Microsoft-powered organizations. The Unified Security Workspace within B365E enhances incident investigation and response capabilities, providing a single interface for streamlined operations. "With Bulletproof Managed Security Services, we're not just enhancing securitywe're redefining it. By automating and streamlining incident response, we enable Security Operation Center (SOC) analysts to stay ahead of cyber threats, ensuring your organization's safety and resilience. Our mission is to meet organizations wherever they are in their security journey, bridging the gap to provide the solutions they need, regardless of their existing tools or MSSP partnerships," stated Ricardo Nicolini, CTO of Bulletproof. Through hyperautomation, the platform enables efficient investigation and response to security incidents, eliminating the need to navigate multiple platforms. This innovation boosts productivity, allowing analysts to respond swiftly to evolving cyber threats. By empowering Security Operations Center (SOC) analysts, Bulletproof ensures clients' safety, resilience, and proactive defense against modern cyber risks. For more information about Bulletproof 365 Enterprise, please visit our webpage. About ContraForce Member of the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA) and winner of the MISA Excellence Award in 2023 and 2024, ContraForce aims to simplify and streamline security operations to efficiently manage incidents and effectively stop cyber threats. Their security operations workspace enables automated security engineering, AI-Remediation workflows, and threat response velocity at scale. About Bulletproof With locations in North America and around the globe, Bulletproof has decades of IT, security, and compliance expertise. Bulletproof works with all industries of all sizes and leverages its extensive industry experience to mitigate risk and improve client processes, systems, and business infrastructure. Named Microsoft's global Security Partner of the Year in 2021 for delivering excellence and innovative end-to-end security solutions, Bulletproof is also a member of the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA) and winner of the 2024 MISA Excellence Awards, Security Trailblazer. Connect with us on social: LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. SOURCE Bulletproof, A GLI Company PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- 3D geospatial company Cesium has announced the release of Cesium Moon Terrain, the first comprehensive, precise, and readily-available 3D dataset of the moon. Although Cesium Moon Terrain was developed to support NASA's Artemis mission and other international space agencies, the dataset can be accessed and used by anyone to build advanced visualizations and simulations. The Copernicus Crater in Cesium Moon Terrain, visualized in Cesium for Unreal. Cesium Moon Terrain is composed of precise terrain and imagery from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) program and other sources, and is provided as 3D Tiles, the Open Geospatial Consortium Community Standard created by Cesium. "We launched Cesium Moon Terrain as an accurate and interoperable 3D Tiles canvas to support the international interest in lunar exploration and building structures on the moon's surface," said Cesium CEO Patrick Cozzi. "Cesium Moon Terrain will enable engineers, system integrators, and digital content creators to build simulations, mission plans, and real-time operations experiences." Cesium Moon Terrain was recently demonstrated at the Digital Twin for Lunar Development Workshop held at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The workshop brought the space enterprise community together to focus on advancing digital twins for NASA and the creation of an open, interoperable platform for a lunar digital ecosystem. Early adopters of Cesium Moon Terrain include Ansys, who is using the data in conjunction with their RF Channel Modeler to understand the impacts introduced by challenging lunar locations, such as polar regions, in analyzing communications system designs intended to serve participants on the lunar surface. Another is Buendea, which is collaborating with the NASA Advanced Operations Concept Lab on developing the XR Operations Support System (XOSS) to support real-time simulations on the Moon and Mars. Buendea is interested in Cesium Moon Terrain for its potential to enhance their ongoing projects. "We're excited about the potential of Cesium Moon Terrain to accelerate our work, including our efforts with NASA, to accurately plan and simulate explorations of the lunar surface," said Julian Reyes, Founder of Buendea. To access Cesium Moon Terrain, sign up for an account , or sign in to Cesium ion. Users can create a Cesium Story, incorporate the data into a web application with CesiumJS, or build advanced visualizations with Cesium for Unreal and Cesium for Unity. Cesium Moon Terrain is also available for Cesium ion Self-Hosted . Cesium Moon Terrain can be used as a base layer to place models of habitats, vehicles, or rovers on the lunar surface. Users with their own high resolution terrain data can embed it within Cesium Moon Terrain to create a continuous and accurate 3D environment. About Cesium - The Platform for 3D Geospatial Cesium created 3D Tiles, the Open Geospatial Consortium community standard for streaming massive 3D geospatial data. Use Cesium ion to optimize, host, and combine your data with curated global 3D content, and stream to any device. With unique expertise at the intersection of 3D geospatial and computer graphics, Cesium is deeply committed to openness and interoperability through open standards, open APIs, and open source offerings like CesiumJS, Cesium for Unreal, Cesium for Unity, and Cesium for Omniverse. SOURCE Cesium Bankers seek regulatory changes to reduce check forgery ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite the decline in check volume, 90% of U.S. banks surveyed said check fraud is ballooning, according to a new survey released today by fintech IntraFi. The survey, which included responses from 471 banks, found that more than a quarter of banks experienced a 50% or higher increase in check fraud over the past three years. Another 19% said check fraud was up 30-49%, while an additional 28% said it rose by 10-29%. "Those are staggering numbers that show check fraud is rampant and surging," said Mark Jacobsen, IntraFi's CEO and cofounder. "Community banks are being hit particularly hard, and they are looking to policymakers to step in." Indeed, community banks appear increasingly frustrated by repayment delays on bad checks from the institutions that cashed them. Ninety percent of respondents said such delays are either a regular occurrence or occur occasionally. The largest bottleneck in the repayment process is at institutions with more than $700 billion of assets, according to 59% of respondents. When asked what changes they would like to see from regulators, 62% said they support shifting liability for check fraud to the "bank of first deposit," the institution that first cashes the bad check. Nearly half of bankers want law enforcement to better target check fraud, while 14% support more funding to expand the U.S. Postal Service police force. Outside analysts agree the issue needs to be addressed. "In the last couple years, you cannot believe all the emails and calls I get concerning check forgery," Frank Abagnale Jr., founder of Abagnale and Associates, and the inspiration for the book and film "Catch Me If You Can," said on a recent episode of IntraFi's Banking with Interest podcast. "It's a huge problem." The IntraFi survey also found that bankers continue to be pessimistic about the economy. Thirty-four percent cited worsening economic conditions at their institution over the past year, while 38% said they expect conditions to worsen over the next 12 months. Elevated funding costs and fierce competition for deposits may be fueling that pessimism. Eighty-three percent of bankers surveyed said the price of funds had risen over the past year, with 59% citing a more competitive environment for deposits. Bankers were split when it comes to loan demand, with 39% saying it had risen over the past year while the same percentage said it had fallen. Looking to the future, 42% expect loan demand to rise while 35% expect it to stay the same. IntraFi's Q2 2024 Bank Executive Business Outlook Survey garnered responses from CEOs, presidents, CFOs, and COOs at 471 unique banks across the country. Download the full report. About IntraFi A trusted partner chosen by more than 3,000 financial services companies, we define success not by the volume of transactions we enable, but by the quality of relationships we form. Our network, established over 20 years ago, connects institutions of all sizes to help participants build stronger relationships with their customers, fund more loans, seamlessly manage their liquidity needs, and earn fee income. The network brings scale, giving each participant access to tens of billions of dollars in funding, the highest per-depositor and per-bank capacity, and the peace of mind of being able to make large-dollar placements. SOURCE IntraFi DALLAS, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Civitas Capital Group, a Dallas-based alternative investment manager offering niche opportunities in U.S. real estate, today announced that it has filed for I-956F approval from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an EB-5 project in San Diego, California. An approved Form I-956F is a vital first step to the approval of each EB-5 investor's I-526E petition. The EB-5 capital for this project will partially finance the development of a 76-unit, Class A multifamily community in the North Park neighborhood of San Diego. North Park has one of the densest populations of 25- to 34-year-olds in San Diego, has a plethora of walkable amenities, and has easy access to downtown and San Diego's largest employment nodes. The total EB-5 investment size is $14.4 million, accommodating 18 investors. The project is hoping to return capital to investors in Q4 of 2027. We are extremely excited to bring this deal to the San Diego market. Post this "We are extremely excited to bring this deal to the San Diego market," said Jorge Adler, Director of Investments for Civitas and the lead on the project. "San Diego is a supply-constrained market with what Civitas believes are very positive long-term demand drivers. We are particularly excited about delivering this project in one of the most desirable submarkets of San Diego at a time when few other properties are scheduled to open. It's a win for the community, and a win for Civitas." Structured as an equity offering, the project stands in contrast to most EB-5 offerings currently found in the market, which are often structured as debt with low upside. Because of this, Jeff Kiser, Director and Head of EB-5 Investor Relations for Civitas, says he expects this project to stand out. "Most EB-5 investment opportunities in today's market demand that investors lock in substantial funds for five years or longer," Kiser says. "In contrast, Civitas believes the San Diego project presents a distinctive opportunity for investors within the EB-5 sector." ABOUT CIVITAS CAPITAL GROUP Civitas Capital Group is a nimble alternative investment manager offering compelling, niche EB-5 opportunities in U.S. real estate. Civitas exists to create opportunities that enrich our communities, investors, and employees alike. Driven by relentless creativity, Civitas digs deeper to uncover opportunities that others miss. Follow Civitas Capital Group on LinkedIn. Learn more at civitascapital.com. SOURCE CIVITAS CAPITAL GROUP Clorox EcoClean Disinfecting Wipes expands the Clorox EcoClean product portfolio of Design for the Environment (DfE) and Safer Choice-certified, ready-to-use cleaners and disinfectants, to provide cleaning professionals more eco-conscious alternatives that work as well as traditional cleaners. OAKLAND, Calif., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- CloroxPro, the trusted makers of Clorox professional products, is proud to announce the expansion of the Clorox EcoClean product platform with the launch of Clorox EcoClean Disinfecting Wipes. These Design for the Environment (DfE)-certified, ready-to-use wipes are made with a 100% plant-based substrate and naturally-derived, citric acid active ingredient that kills 99.9% of germs without bleach, ammonia or alcohol.1 CloroxPro Introduces New, Plant-Based Clorox EcoClean Disinfecting Wipes Designed with people and the planet in mind, Clorox EcoClean Disinfecting Wipes clean and disinfect1 without harsh chemical odors and with 38% less plastic.2 They are ideal for use in shared spaces because they are gentle on surfacessuch as doorknobs, countertops, tables, desks and morebut tough on grease, grime and germs, including cold and flu viruses, norovirus and COVID-19.3 "The demand for eco-conscious cleaners and disinfectants continues to increase as facilities prioritize the comfort of their staff and meeting their sustainability goals," said Kyra Caskey, Senior Director of Marketing, CloroxPro. "This is why we are proud to expand the Clorox EcoClean portfolio with ready-to-use disinfecting wipes that offer cleaning professionals an eco-conscious alternative that works just as well as the leading professional disinfecting wipe."4 Clorox EcoClean Disinfecting Wipes are the newest addition to the Clorox EcoClean product line, which also includes the following DfE and Safer Choice-certified cleaners and disinfectants: Clorox EcoClean Disinfecting Cleaner : a ready-to-use disinfectant cleaner made with a plant-based active ingredient that kills 99.9% of illness-causing germs in two minutes or less, including cold and flu viruses, COVID-193, norovirus, Staph and MRSA. 1 : a ready-to-use disinfectant cleaner made with a plant-based active ingredient that kills 99.9% of illness-causing germs in two minutes or less, including cold and flu viruses, COVID-193, norovirus, Staph and MRSA. Clorox EcoClean All-Purpose Cleaner : a ready-to-use cleaner formulated without parabens, dyes, phthalates, phosphates, petroleum solvents or SLES that breaks down grease, grime and dirt; perfect for use in restrooms, workspaces and school eating areas. : a ready-to-use cleaner formulated without parabens, dyes, phthalates, phosphates, petroleum solvents or SLES that breaks down grease, grime and dirt; perfect for use in restrooms, workspaces and school eating areas. Clorox EcoClean Glass Cleaner: a ready-to-use, non-ammoniated product that leaves glass and mirrors clean and streak-free; specifically designed to cut through dirt, smudges and fingerprints. "The expansion of Clorox EcoClean comes at a time when interest in and need for effective, eco-conscious product solutions is skyrocketing as of April 2024, certified eco-conscious products are required for new custodial contracts that maintain federal buildings and three in four US states have Environmental Purchasing Policies in place," added Caskey.5 "At CloroxPro, we are committed to helping our customers meet their goals, and EcoClean Disinfecting Wipes are a testament to this commitment." All Clorox EcoClean products are made using 25% post-consumer recycled plastic packaging and can help facilities reach their sustainability goals, including meeting requirements for LEED, ISSA CIMS - Green Building, and Healthy Green Schools and Colleges. More information can be found at CloroxPro.com/CloroxEcoClean. You can also join the Clorox EcoClean Disinfecting Wipes exclusive live launch event on September 10, 2024, at 10 AM PST, featuring product demonstrations and expert speakers register HERE. About CloroxPro Building on a century-long legacy in cleaning and disinfecting, CloroxPro offers some of the industry's most recognized and trusted brand names for commercial cleaning, including its Clorox Healthcare products and technologies for healthcare facilities. Whether it is schools, offices, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, or other commercial facilities, CloroxPro is committed to meeting the demands of industry professionals. For more information, visit CloroxPro.com. About The Clorox Company: The Clorox Company (NYSE: CLX) champions people to be well and thrive every single day. Its trusted brands, which include Brita, Burt's Bees, Clorox, Fresh Step, Glad, Hidden Valley, Kingsford, Liquid-Plumr, Pine-Sol and Natural Vitality, can be found in about nine of 10 U.S. homes and internationally with brands such as Clorinda, Chux and Poett. Headquartered in Oakland, California, since 1913, Clorox was one of the first in the U.S. to integrate ESG into its business reporting. In 2024 the company was ranked No. 1 on Barron's 100 Most Sustainable Companies list for the second consecutive year. Visit thecloroxcompany.com to learn more. CLX-B 1 When used as directed on hard, non-porous surfaces. See product label for list of organisms. 2 Total virgin plastic reduction vs Clorox Disinfecting Wipes 75 ct. Based on Precision B2B market share unit sales data, 12 months ending April 2024. 3 Kills Sars-CoV-2 on hard, non-porous surfaces. 4 Clorox Disinfecting Wipes based on Precision B2B market share unit sales data, 12 months ending April 2024. When used as directed on soap scum and greasy particulate soil. 5 United States Environmental Protection Agency "About the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Program". May 2024. Accessed July 17, 2024. SOURCE CloroxPro HONG KONG, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Recently, Hurricane Beryl, a Category 4 storm, wreaked havoc in the southeastern Caribbean, bringing intense winds and heavy rainfall that resulted in at least six fatalities and severe damage in many areas. In the Cumanacoa region of Venezuela, torrential rains caused rivers to overflow, damaging numerous vehicles and collapsing several homes, leaving the disaster-stricken area with significant shortages of water and electricity. As a globally renowned charity organization, CoinEx Charity quickly responded to the disaster, collaborating with the local NGO Caritas Cumana to launch an emergency relief operation in Cumanacoa, Venezuela. Emergency Aid from CoinEx Charity In the face of this sudden natural disaster, CoinEx Charity's team in Venezuela swiftly activated an emergency aid plan, collaborating with Caritas Cumana to conduct a series of relief activities. The CoinEx Charity team promptly rushed to the disaster zone and procured and donated a substantial quantity of essential supplies for the affected population, including 5,000 liters of drinking water, tuna, bread, diapers, 100 prepared meals, and 170 first-aid medications. The timely delivery of these supplies provided significant assistance to the local community, alleviating their immediate needs. This is not the first time CoinEx Charity has participated in relief efforts. Earlier this year, when southern Brazil faced severe floods, CoinEx Charity quickly organized rescue teams to provide critically needed supplies to the affected areas. Through partnerships with local NGOs, CoinEx Charity not only provided essential support to the disaster victims but also assisted them in rebuilding their homes. This successful relief operation not only received high praise from local governments and communities but also further strengthened CoinEx Charity's influence on the international stage. Since its establishment, CoinEx Charity has consistently adhered to its mission of "making the world a better place through blockchain," actively engaging in global charitable rescue, poverty alleviation, and educational support efforts. CoinEx Charity believes that through relentless efforts, it can bring hope and warmth to more people in need. Behind every natural disaster lies the pain and despair of countless families. As an organization dedicated to global philanthropy, CoinEx Charity will continue to shoulder its social responsibilities, extending a helping hand in times of crisis and embodying its charitable commitments through tangible actions. Moving forward, CoinEx Charity will maintain its partnerships with various local NGOs to provide rapid and effective assistance in the face of unexpected disasters. Additionally, CoinEx Charity will enhance its disaster warning and emergency response capabilities to ensure swift action when disasters strike. Furthermore, CoinEx Charity will actively participate in more public welfare initiatives, including poverty alleviation and education, contributing to sustainable development worldwide. CoinEx Charity calls on more businesses and individuals to pay attention to and participate in charitable activities, jointly striving to build a better and more harmonious world. In the face of natural disasters and humanitarian crises, CoinEx Charity's rapid support not only represents material aid in response to calamity but also embodies a steadfast embrace of our shared human destiny, illustrating the profound meaning of "Nature may be ruthless, but humanity is filled with love." In the future, CoinEx Charity will continue to strengthen its collaboration with local charitable organizations and enhance its emergency response capabilities to ensure quick action during emergencies. Simultaneously, CoinEx Charity will expand its areas of public welfare activities, from poverty alleviation to education, always focusing on the sustainable development of human society. Every act of kindness will cumulatively form a powerful social force, contributing to the creation of a better world. CoinEx Charity will remain true to its original mission, joining hands with everyone who cares about society, bringing warmth and hope to those in need, and ensuring that the seeds of charity take root and blossom in every corner of the world. SOURCE CoinEx Global A Personal Memoir Detailing a Harrowing Escape from Religious Persecution as a Baha'i in Iran and Exploring Spiritual Capitalism, Resonating with Readers Nationwide SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- "CROSSING THE DESERT: The Power of Embracing Life's Difficult Journeys" (June 18, 2024; BenBella Books) by Payam Zamani has made its way onto the USA TODAY Bestseller list. The memoir recounts Zamani's harrowing escape from religious persecution as a Baha'i in Iran and his journey to finding a new life in the United States. It explores spiritual capitalism, weaving together his business experiences with his commitment to values and the well-being of others. USA TODAY Bestseller CROSSING THE DESERT: A Harrowing Escape from Religious Persecution in Iran to Spiritual Capitalism Post this "Crossing the Desert" book cover Payam Zamani, author of "Crossing the Desert," at a book reading event at Book Passage in the Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA - June 2024. As his debut book, "CROSSING THE DESERT" showcases Zamani's reflections as an entrepreneur, investor, philanthropist, and founder of One Planet Group . Through this memoir, he shares the lessons he's learned from his challenges and achievements, aiming to inspire others. In his own words, "I hope to show how every one of us can learn from the challenges we face and then actas individuals, as communities, as companies, as countries, as part of humanity itselfin order to help make life better for us all." The book serves as a gentle call to action, encouraging readers to embrace their journeys and contribute positively to the world. The initial nine-city book tour began at One Planet Group's headquarters in Walnut Creek, CA, with a release party in Los Angeles . Home to the largest Iranian community in the diaspora, Los Angeles was an ideal setting, reflecting the shared stories of many immigrants. The city's diverse community underscored the memoir's deep cultural and historical relevance, emphasizing themes of resilience, hope, and unity. The tour continued through San Francisco, Chicago, Miami, Sterling, New York, Toronto, and Washington DC, each city providing a unique and welcoming experience. In addition to its USA TODAY Bestseller status, "CROSSING THE DESERT" has also been featured on the Publishers Weekly Bestseller and Publisher Marketplace Bestseller lists. The book has garnered enthusiastic endorsements from notable figures: Rainn Wilson , actor and New York Times bestselling author and philanthropist, described it as "a page-turning, big-hearted memoir that is both harrowing and full of hope. Payam's story is jaw-dropping and thought-provoking." , actor and bestselling author and philanthropist, described it as "a page-turning, big-hearted memoir that is both harrowing and full of hope. Payam's story is jaw-dropping and thought-provoking." Zhang Xin , co-founder & former CEO of SOHO China and Founder & CEO of Closer Media, noted it as "a profound testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith." , co-founder & former CEO of SOHO China and Founder & CEO of Closer Media, noted it as "a profound testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith." Lauren Bush Lauren , founder and CEO of FEED, called Zamani "an inspiration to anyone looking to make the world a better place." , founder and CEO of FEED, called Zamani "an inspiration to anyone looking to make the world a better place." Julie Wainwright , founder & former CEO of The RealReal and Founder & CEO of Ahara, praised Zamani's approach to integrating capitalism with spirituality. , founder & former CEO of The RealReal and Founder & CEO of Ahara, praised Zamani's approach to integrating capitalism with spirituality. Stephen DeBerry, managing partner at BRONZE, described the memoir as "essential reading," offering valuable insights into societal challenges and reasons for hope. Zamani is preparing for another tour in the Fall. More details and updates will be available on the book's website at crossingthedesertbook.com . ABOUT PAYAM ZAMANI Payam Zamani is an entrepreneur, investor, and the founder of One Planet Group , and the author of National bestselling book, Crossing the Desert: The Power of Embracing Life's Difficult Journeys . Zamani was forced to flee Iran at the age of 16 due to his religious beliefs as a Baha'i. He and his brother founded AutoWeb , one of the first online car marketplaces, achieving a record-breaking IPO. Under the One Planet Group umbrella, Zamani currently owns multiple technology and media businesses, has invested in more than 50 companies, and is striving to redefine capitalism in an attempt to elevate business to serve humanity. Additionally, he founded the One Planet Summit , promoting global ethical business practices, exemplifying his commitment to spiritual capitalism. Zamani together with his wife Gouya have two daughters and are dedicated activists, actively promoting the empowerment of women and girls and racial unity through their foundation, One Planet One People . ABOUT CROSSING THE DESERT In the summer of 1987, Payam Zamani fled Iran as a member of the Baha'i Faith, escaping years of religious persecution. He endured a harrowing five-day trek through the Emptiness Desert (Dasht-e Lut) to reach safety in Pakistan. Twelve years later, Payam and his brother achieved a $1.2 billion valuation for a company they had founded in the early 90s, the experience of taking their company public revealed the soulless nature of modern capitalism. In 2015, Payam founded One Planet Group, merging his business acumen with his spiritual beliefs, focusing on creating a company that can also contribute to the betterment of the world. "Crossing the Desert" offers an intimate look at the importance of the paths we choose, the values we hold, and how these can shape us financially and spiritually. Payam's story is a timely reminder of the power of enduring life's toughest journeys to achieve a brighter future for all. MEDIA CONTACT Bita Milanian, Head of Communications & PR, One Planet Group bita (at) oneplanetgroup.com (925) 237-9036 SOURCE One Planet Group Inc. LOS ANGELES, Aug. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Endava plc ("Endava" or "the Company") (NYSE: DAVA) for violations of the securities laws. The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Endava filed a Form 6-K with the SEC on February 29, 2024. The Company reported revenues below expectations and drastically cut revenue guidance for 2024. Based on this news, shares of Endava fell sharply on heavy volume. If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate. We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com, or by email at [email protected]. The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics. CONTACT: The Schall Law Firm Brian Schall, Esq. 310-301-3335 [email protected] www.schallfirm.com SOURCE The Schall Law Firm Previously known as Health Equity Heroes, the awards recognize leaders improving health care access for high-need communities with $60,000 in charitable contributions WELLESLEY, Mass., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- DentaQuest, part of Sun Life U.S., today announced its 2024 Health Access Heroes, who represent forward-thinking individuals or organizations taking action to increase access to health care and optimal health outcomes for people with the greatest needs and fewest resources. In addition to celebrating and promoting the work of the 12 Heroes, DentaQuest is making $60,000 in charitable contributions $5,000 in the name of each Hero to a qualified nonprofit of their choice. Ten years ago, DentaQuest launched the DentaQuest Health Equity Hero awards to shed light on health disparities nationwide and showcase how critical oral health is to overall health and wellness. This year, DentaQuest has renamed the program Health Access Heroes because accessing care is an essential step toward achieving health equity. The awards continue to recognize those responsible for extraordinary work that advances equitable access to care and thus optimal overall health. Recognize and share the remarkable efforts of the 12 newest Heroes advancing equitable access to care for all Post this "We know from research and experience that oral health and overall health are inextricably linked, yet so many people across the country struggle to get the care they need," said Steve Pollock, president of DentaQuest. "The 80 Heroes celebrated during the last nine years have shown us just what is possible and what more can be done. We are excited to recognize and share the remarkable efforts of the 12 newest Heroes helping increase access to the health and oral health care everyone deserves." The 2024 Health Access Heroes in alphabetical order: Ann Burnett For Ann Burnett, what began as an international focus on health care access transformed into a local effort to ensure members of her own community in Marion County, Fla., had access to important health care services. Ann is executive director of FreeD.O.M. (Dental, Optical, Medical) Clinic, USA, which aims to close gaps in health care access for community members struggling with low incomes, no insurance or other barriers. Casa de Salud Casa de Salud, founded in 2010, removes barriers to health care and ultimately bridges the access gap for St. Louis' diverse immigrant community of more than 20,000 uninsured individuals, representing more than 80 countries across 45+ counties in Missouri and Illinois. Its programs include a primary care clinic, case management program and mental health collaborative. Equality Health Foundation Equality Health Foundation's goal is to eliminate health disparities, expand access to care, and accelerate health education so that everyone in the community has an opportunity to lead healthier and longer lives. Since its inception in 2019, the Foundation has assisted nearly 90,000 lives across Arizona, Texas and Tennessee. It also serves Louisiana and Virginia and will add North Carolina next. Through health festivals and in collaboration with community partners, the Foundation provides access to health and wellness screenings, education and awareness, resource connections, and food distributions for those who are from underserved and under-resourced communities. Philip Kemp, DDS, AAACD To address unmet dental needs in his Tennessee community and inspire dental students to do the same, Dr. Phillip Kemp founded Hope Smiles in 2005. The organization aims to develop and provide sustainable, community-based dental delivery models for populations with more than episodic care for lasting change. He began by partnering with the University of Tennessee and Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, providing mentor and leadership development opportunities for dental students. Now, Hope Smiles is building a global community of leaders to restore hope and transform lives through dentistry. Milk Like Mine Community Birthing and Breastfeeding Services Called a disparity-focused nonprofit organization, Milk Like Mine provides free doula and lactation services to those in need across Calhoun County, Mich. These efforts aim to decrease negative birthing outcomes, working as the bridge between the community and health care providers and making sure that all families have a voice and are empowered in their birthing experience. Some cities in the region lack quality, if any, medical services like hospitals, birth centers or doula support. Milk Like Mine fills this gap by offering no cost resources, home visits and transportation to appointments. H. Cyrus Oates, DDS Known for a deep commitment to public service, Dr. Cyrus Oates transformed his private practice into a hub for ensuring schoolchildren in Rockford, Ill., have access to high-quality oral health care. What started as a conversation in 2005 eventually became a school-based oral health program that saw 5,500 students get oral care in 2023. Operating as a nonprofit separate from his private practice, Dr. Oates and as many as 12 other colleagues perform exams, cleanings and fluoride varnish applications for students in Rockford Public Schools. He then manages follow up care in his own offices for any students with urgent or emergent restorative dental care needs, totaling roughly half of all students seen in 2023. Maryjane Puffer As executive director of the Los Angeles Trust for Children's Health, Maryjane Puffer has made a career of improving the health of others as a pediatric nurse, a community health program director and a leading developer of domestic and international health programs. She was instrumental in developing Los Angeles Unified School District Wellness Networks and pioneered community health programming and prevention framework strategies in Los Angeles schools. Isabel Rambob, DDS As the president of American Association of Women Dentists, Dr. Rambob advocates for reducing bias, creating space for more female industry leaders, and empowering disenfranchised populations overall for oral health care equity. Her advocacy work is inspired by and supported by her role as an educator, as she currently is the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry assistant dean for student affairs and clinical associate professor in the Department of Restorative Sciences. By planting the seeds in dental school that women can aim higher and that all students can have careers that include delivering care to underserved populations, Dr. Rambob hopes to mitigate common career choice drivers such as student debt. She also continues to work outside of education, helping nonprofit organizations through her other business endeavors find dentists who will volunteer their service to treat people in need. Nina Ray, DDS Dr. Ray is dedicated to treating patients with special health care needs and pediatric patients from low-income or Medicaid-eligible families. Based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Dr. Ray is one of just 6 dentists specializing in treating patients with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) in the region. Currently, she serves as the assistant program director for Texas A&M University's dentistry fellowship focused on the IDD population. There are only 9 such programs across the nation designed specifically to train new dentists in postgraduate services to help patients with special health care needs. She is also leading the effort to turn this into the first general practice residency at Texas A&M School of Dentistry. Julie Seward (Cherokee), RDH, MEd Julie Seward leads the Native Oral Health Network (NOHN), which is dedicated to building healthier Native communities by connecting oral health to overall health and wellness through peer support, collaboration and community engagement. Through original research and external partnerships, NOHN aims to intimately provide a closer look at what native communities face and give a voice to those frequently without a seat at the table through professional development, peer support, and networking, as well as empowering health leaders, advocates, and educators. Janet H Southerland, DDS, MPH, PhD Described as a trailblazer, Dr. Southerland is working to expand oral health care throughout the state of Louisiana, especially in the more rural areas of the state where there are very few health care providers. Her approach is evidence-based and rooted in interprofessional collaboration with the other Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center professional schools. With firsthand experience working in hospital-based oral health care, she understands the critical need for collaboration across everyone in the system including community. M. Colleen Stephenson, RDH-ER, MS As Idaho's representative for the national 100 Million Mouths Campaign, Colleen Stephenson is laying the groundwork for a statewide standard of preventive whole-person care for all children. She is working in tandem with the Idaho Oral Health Alliance and its Healthy Me is Cavity Free Collaborative to recruit and train professionals across all health disciplines to monitor children's oral health as a component of primary healthcare. The ultimate goal is a well child model that includes multiple opportunities to identify dental needs and problems before they become a child health issue and a statewide referral system that enables natural handoffs to a dental home. About DentaQuest The Sun Life U.S. dental business, including DentaQuest, is dedicated to improving the oral health of all through purpose-driven, outcomes-based solutions. We make dental benefits better for everyone through Preventistry an inclusive approach centered on preventive, quality care, expanded access and solutions built on valued relationships across the health care ecosystem. We manage dental and vision benefits for approximately 36 million Americans. For 30 years, we have delivered cost-effective benefit plans and services for employer groups, individuals, health plans, and government-sponsored dental programs. We are the largest Medicaid and CHIP dental benefits administrator in the U.S., by membership. We also support direct patient care through an expanding network of 80 dental practices in underserved communities across the United States. Learn more about the Sun Life U.S. dental business at www.Sunlife.com/dental and www.DentaQuest.com. Direct Media Inquiries to: Maya Linson [email protected] 202-794-3738 SOURCE DentaQuest, part of Sun Life U.S. NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global diaper rash cream market size is estimated to grow by USD 322.1 million from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period. Increasing consumer awareness about natural baby products is driving market growth, with a trend towards increasing popularity of e-commerce channels. However, decline in birth rates in developed economies poses a challenge. Key market players include Artsana Spa, Bayer AG, Beiersdorf AG, Earth Mama Angel Baby LLC, Galderma SA, Johnson and Johnson Services Inc., Laboratoires Expanscience, MainPointe Pharmaceuticals LLC., Moberg Pharma AB, Prestige Consumer Healthcare Inc., S.C. Johnson and Son Inc., Sanofi SA, Sebapharma GmbH and Co. KG, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., The Clorox Co., The Himalaya Drug Co., Unilever PLC, W.S. Badger Co., and Weleda Group. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global diaper rash cream market 2024-2028 Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies- View the snapshot of this report Diaper Rash Cream Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2023 Historic period 2018 - 2022 Forecast period 2024-2028 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 4.5% Market growth 2024-2028 USD 322.1 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 4.23 Regional analysis APAC, Europe, North America, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing market contribution Europe at 38% Key countries US, China, Japan, India, and Germany Key companies profiled Artsana Spa, Bayer AG, Beiersdorf AG, Earth Mama Angel Baby LLC, Galderma SA, Johnson and Johnson Services Inc., Laboratoires Expanscience, MainPointe Pharmaceuticals LLC., Moberg Pharma AB, Prestige Consumer Healthcare Inc., S.C. Johnson and Son Inc., Sanofi SA, Sebapharma GmbH and Co. KG, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., The Clorox Co., The Himalaya Drug Co., Unilever PLC, W.S. Badger Co., and Weleda Group Market Driver The diaper rash cream market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing use of online shopping platforms. Retailers are expanding their reach and consumer base by selling diaper care products online. Consumers' convenience and improved e-commerce security features are driving market growth. Local players are successfully reaching premium customers by selling products online on a national scale. Increased Internet penetration and consumer trust in online retailing, along with faster shipping services and a fragmented consumer choice, contribute to market expansion. Major vendors, such as Bayer and Nestle, sell their diaper care products on popular e-commerce sites like Amazon and eBay. Online stores offer various discounts and product feature descriptions to attract customers. The potential for growth is considerable in developing countries with increasing Internet users. E-commerce retailing provides a lucrative distribution channel for diaper rash creams. The Diaper Rash Cream market is witnessing significant trends with a focus on sustainability and ecoconsciousness in packaging. Traditional wisdom and futuristic solutions are harmoniously blended to cater to the growing demand for safe, nonprescription items. Drugstores and pharmacies remain key distribution channels, with e-commerce and digital platforms gaining popularity due to the immigration wave and the dependent population's increasing reliance on online shopping. Product ingredients derived from indigenous sources are in development endeavors, reflecting cultural preferences. BepanthenTM formulation, featuring zinc oxide and beeswax, is a popular choice for protecting infants from diaper rash symptoms like severe skin inflammation, prolonged wetness, and diaper friction. The adult segment is also targeted due to the prevalence of conditions like atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, impetigo, psoriasis, allergies, infections, and diaper dermatitis. Safety remains a top priority, with parents seeking gentle, allergy-friendly formulations for their babies. Symptoms like skin irritation, bacterial infection, and sleeping pattern disruptions are addressed through diaper rash creams. Frequency of urination and defecation are essential factors in choosing the right product, with severe cases requiring medical attention. Discover 360 analysis of this market. For complete information, schedule your consultation - Book Here! Market Challenges The global diaper rash cream market has been experiencing a slowdown due to declining birth rates in many developed countries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the global fertility rate decreased by 30% between March 2020 and March 2021 , the lowest in 30 years. This trend is particularly noticeable in countries like Greece and Japan . One primary reason for this demographic shift is the perception that women with children face limited job prospects or are denied promotions. As a result, many working women delay or forgo childbirth. Additionally, lifestyle changes among the younger generation (aged between 20-39 years) are negatively impacting fertility, further affecting sales of baby care products and vendors' revenue. Thus, the decline in birth rates in developed countries poses a significant challenge to the growth of the global diaper rash cream market. and , the lowest in 30 years. This trend is particularly noticeable in countries like and . One primary reason for this demographic shift is the perception that women with children face limited job prospects or are denied promotions. As a result, many working women delay or forgo childbirth. Additionally, lifestyle changes among the younger generation (aged between 20-39 years) are negatively impacting fertility, further affecting sales of baby care products and vendors' revenue. Thus, the decline in birth rates in developed countries poses a significant challenge to the growth of the global diaper rash cream market. The Diaper Rash Cream market faces challenges due to growing consumer awareness and concerns over harmful impact of certain ingredients. Traditional baby products containing parabens, phthalates, silicones, petrochemicals, artificial preservatives, and synthetic additives are under scrutiny. In response, leading manufacturers are innovating with natural alternatives like sunflower seed, jojoba, and almond oils, which offer antifungal and antibacterial qualities. Reconditioning creams with calendula oils are gaining popularity for their ability to soothe and protect infants' delicate skin. To maintain a competitive edge, companies are leveraging promotional campaigns and expanding their reach in the e-commerce sector for product accessibility. Developing economies present significant opportunities for growth. Biomeenhancing formulations with prebiotics and probiotics are being integrated to support the infants' skin microbiome. Neurosensory soothing elements, aromatherapy, textured creams, and gentle massaging elements are added features to enhance user experience. Smartdetection integration with embedded sensors is a new trend to monitor moisture levels and skin conditions. Innovative, biomefriendly formulations using smart technologies are the future of diaper rash creams. For more insights on driver and challenges - Request a sample report! Segment Overview This diaper rash cream market report extensively covers market segmentation by Distribution Channel 1.1 Offline 1.2 Online Geography 2.1 APAC 2.2 Europe 2.3 North America 2.4 Middle East and Africa and 2.5 South America 1.1 Offline- The Diaper Rash Cream market caters to parents and caregivers seeking solutions for their babies' diaper rashes. This market offers various creams and ointments, providing effective relief from irritation and inflammation. Key players in this industry focus on developing gentle, hypoallergenic formulas to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. Competition is moderate, with companies differentiating through pricing, product innovation, and distribution channels. Consumer education and awareness campaigns are essential for market growth. For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2017-2021) - Download a Sample Report Learn and explore more about Technavio's in-depth research reports The global baby diapers market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing birth rates, rising disposable incomes, and growing awareness about baby hygiene. The market is segmented by product type, including cloth diapers, disposable diapers, training pants, swim pants, and biodegradable diapers. Key players such as Procter & Gamble, Kimberly-Clark, and Unicharm dominate the market with innovative products and extensive distribution networks. The Asia-Pacific region leads the market due to its large population and rapid urbanization, followed by North America and Europe. Research Analysis The Diaper Rash Cream market caters to the needs of infants and babies suffering from diaper rash, diaper dermatitis, and skin irritation. Innovative solutions in the market include biomeenhancing formulations that support the infants' skin microbiome with prebiotics and probiotics. Neurosensory soothing elements and aromatherapy provide added comfort. Textured creams and gentle massaging elements help in easy application and effective coverage. Smartdetection integration and embedded sensors monitor moisture levels, alerting parents when it's time to apply the cream. Skin conditions such as severe inflammation, prolonged wetness, bacterial infection, diaper friction, sleeping pattern, frequency of urination, and defecation are addressed by these advanced creams. Biomefriendly formulations, featuring beeswax as a protective barrier, ensure gentle care for infants' delicate skin. Market Research Overview The Diaper Rash Cream market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand for biomeenhancing formulations that support the infants' skin microbiome. Prebiotics and probiotics are gaining popularity as they help maintain a healthy skin balance. Neurosensory soothing elements, aromatherapy, and textured creams offer additional benefits for infants. Smartdetection integration and embedded sensors are being explored to monitor moisture levels and skin conditions in real-time. Innovative product development endeavors focus on biomefriendly formulations, smart technologies, and sustainability. Ecoconsciousness in packaging and traditional wisdom are also key trends. Futuristic solutions include harmonious blends of indigenous ingredients and advanced formulations. Safety is paramount, with nonprescription items available at drugstores, pharmacies, and e-commerce platforms catering to various cultural preferences. Diaper rash symptoms such as severe skin inflammation, prolonged wetness, and bacterial infection are addressed by protective barrier creams containing beeswax, zinc oxide, mineral oil, and skin soothers. Manufacturers differentiate themselves through promotional campaigns, competitive edge, and existing consumer base. Product ingredients like sunflower seed, jojoba, almond oils, and calendula offer antifungal and antibacterial qualities, reconditioning the skin. The adult segment is also catered to, with diaper rash a common issue for those with skin conditions like atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, impetigo, psoriasis, allergies, and infections. Diaper rash symptoms include diaper dermatitis, skin irritation, and diaper friction, which can impact sleep patterns, frequency of urination, and defecation. Diaper rash creams provide a protective barrier against these symptoms, ensuring a healthy and comfortable experience for both infants and adults. However, it's essential to avoid harmful ingredients like parabens, phthalates, silicones, mineral oil, petrochemicals, and synthetic additives. By focusing on these trends and consumer needs, the Diaper Rash Cream market continues to evolve and innovate. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Distribution Channel Offline Online Geography APAC Europe North America Middle East And Africa South America 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio SANDY, Utah, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Diversify Advisor Network ("Diversify"), the advisor-founded and advisor-led wealth management firm, announced the appointments of Jordan Hammer as VP of Advisor Solutions and Trevor Lambert as Director of FinTech. "We are dedicated to delivering exceptional support and continuous innovative solutions to our team of advisors," said Dave Laga, President of Diversify. "The addition of Jordan Hammer and Trevor Lambert to our team demonstrates this commitment, and we are excited to welcome such talented individuals." Hammer joins Diversify after an eight-year tenure at John Hancock, where he served as VP, Regional Business Consultant in the Dallas/Fort Worth region. As VP of Advisor Solutions, Hammer will partner directly with Diversify advisors to capitalize on organic growth opportunities and enhance client experiences. Hammer holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Brigham Young University, and a CEPA designation. "My family and I are thrilled to join the team at Diversify. The leadership, culture, and direction of the firm made it an easy choice for our future. For the last 10 years of my career, I have focused on helping financial advisors create better outcomes for their clients and maximize their business. I am excited and looking forward to being a part of the incredible growth and trajectory of Diversify," said Hammer. Mr. Lambert joins Diversify with over nine years of experience and industry knowledge gained at Orion Advisor Technology. Lambert began his career on the Data Reconciliation team before advancing to the role of Manager of Professional Services. As Director of FinTech, Mr. Lambert will collaborate with leadership and Diversify's advisor teams to facilitate, implement, and optimize the use of technology at Diversify. Drawing on his experience at Orion, a key technology at Diversify, Mr. Lambert is expected to make an immediate and significant impact. "I'm thrilled to join Diversify," said Lambert. "The chance to contribute significantly to Diversify's technology expansion, collaborate with advisors and their teams, and be part of a firm that prioritizes clients were crucial factors in my decision." Mr. Lambert holds an MBA in Operations Management from Regis University, a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Grace University, and a CAIA designation. About Diversify Advisor Network Diversify Advisor Network is a privately held, full-service wealth management firm founded by seasoned advisors and industry leaders. The firm has developed institutional-grade resources, complemented by the personal attention and support that defines a true partnership. Investment advisory services are offered through Diversify Advisory Services, LLC and Diversify Wealth Management, LLC, both SEC-registered investment advisors. Securities are offered through DFPG Investments, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. For more information, visit joindiversify.com. Media Contact Jina Horton Diversify Advisor Network [email protected] SOURCE Diversify Advisor Network The global edtech market is experiencing growth due to several factors such as virtual labs teaching experiments and AI-based tailor-made courses. NEW CASTLE, Del., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "EdTech Market by Type (Hardware and Software), Deployment Mode (On-premise and Cloud), Sector (Preschool, K-12, Higher Education, and Others), and End User (Business and Consumer): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024-2034". According to the report, the edtech market was valued at $139.5 billion in 2023, and is estimated to reach $518.9 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 12.9% from 2024 to 2034. Prime determinants of growth The global edtech market is experiencing growth due to several factors such as an AI-based tailor-made courses, improved engagement with virtual reality, and big data automating educational aspects. However, the growing cost of education and operational concerns related to funding in the medium-term hinder market growth to some extent. Moreover, growing investments from governments and local bodies on improving educational quality at public schools offers remunerative opportunities for the expansion of the global edtech market. Request Sample Pages: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/A323685 Report coverage & details: Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20242034 Base Year 2023 Market Size in 2023 $139.5 Billion Market Size in 2034 $518.9 Billion CAGR 12.9 % No. of Pages in Report 189 Segments Covered Type, Deployment Mode, Sector, End User, and Region. Drivers AI-based tailor-made courses Improved engagement with virtual reality Big data automating educational aspects Opportunities Growing investments from governments and local bodies on improving Restraint Growing cost of education and operational concerns related to funding in the medium-term Buy this Complete Report (189 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures) at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/edtech-market/purchase-options The software segment is expected to grow faster throughout the forecast period. Based on the type, the hardware segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than half of the global edtech market revenue and is likely to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period, owing to the widespread adoption of mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, which offer unparalleled accessibility to educational resources and facilitate personalized learning experiences. However, the software segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 15.4% from 2024 to 2032, owing to the adaptive learning platforms, leveraging algorithms to personalize instruction based on individual student needs, preferences, and learning styles. Similarly, learning management systems (LMS) continue to evolve, offering educators comprehensive tools for course administration, content delivery, and assessment. The cloud segment is expected to grow faster throughout the forecast period. Based on the deployment mode, the on-premise segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly one-third of the global edtech market revenue and is likely to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period, owing to the customization and integration of software and hardware to meet the unique needs of individual schools or districts. This approach allows educational institutions to maintain full control over their infrastructure and data, ensuring compliance with local regulations and safeguarding sensitive information. However, the cloud segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 15.1% from 2024 to 2032, owing to the widespread adoption of cloud-based learning management systems (LMS), which provide educators with a centralized platform for course management, content delivery, and student engagement. The preschool segment is expected to lead throughout the forecast period. Based on the sector, the K-12 segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly two-fifths of the global edtech market revenue, and is likely to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period, owing to majority of the teachers in the K-12 sector support gamification initiatives to develop the students' math learning skills with the integration of practical, project-based work in schools. However, the preschool segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 16.3% from 2024 to 2032, owing to the technological advancements enable educators to collect assessment data directly on mobile devices, reducing the conventional use of paper and pen. Some of the assessments are eliminating data entry and letting children respond directly through touchscreen-enabled devices. The consumer segment is expected to grow faster throughout the forecast period. Based on the end user, the business segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for two-fifths of the global edtech market revenue and is likely to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period, owing to increasing focus on corporate learning and professional development, as businesses recognize the importance of upskilling and reskilling their workforce to remain competitive in today's rapidly changing economy. EdTech companies are responding by offering tailored solutions such as online courses, microlearning modules, and virtual training platforms designed to meet the specific needs of corporate learners. However, the consumer segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 15.0% from 2023 to 2032, owing to the rise of online learning platforms and marketplaces offering a wide range of courses, tutorials, and educational content on virtually every subject imaginable. These platforms empower learners of all ages to pursue their interests, acquire new skills, and advance their careers from the comfort of their homes. Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032. Based on region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for three-fourths of the global edtech market revenue and is expected to rule the roost in terms of revenue throughout the forecast timeframe, owing to the rapid adoption of online learning platforms and digital education solutions, driven by the region's large and diverse population, increasing internet penetration, and growing demand for quality education. EdTech startups and established companies alike are leveraging this opportunity to offer innovative learning experiences, including live online classes, interactive content, and personalized learning pathways tailored to the cultural and linguistic diversity of the region. Enquiry Before Buying: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/A323685 Major Industry Players: Think and Learn Private Limited Blackboard Inc. Chegg, Inc. Coursera Inc. EDUTECH INC edX Inc. Google LLC Instructure, Inc. Microsoft Corporation Udacity, Inc. The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global edtech market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario. 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Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact: David Correa 1209 Orange Street, Corporation Trust Center, Wilmington, New Castle, Delaware 19801 USA. Int'l: +1-503-894-6022 Toll Free: +1-800-792-5285 UK: +44-845-528-1300 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1-800-792-5285 [email protected] Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg SOURCE Allied Market Research Grant Program Offers $25,000 to Boost Local Women-Owned Businesses FAIRFAX CITY, Va., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- This September Fairfax City Economic Development (FCED) spotlights women-owned businesses, bolstering these organizations with two City initiatives. The first of these initiatives is the Women's Entrepreneur Grant Opportunity, a program that will allocate a total of $25,000 to five Fairfax City businesses to put towards consulting or capacity-building services. To provide women-owned businesses in Fairfax City the tools they need to facilitate their growth and expansion, applications are open until all five grants are awarded, with awardees being notified no later than September 20. To be eligible for this grant, businesses must be: women-owned, licensed within Fairfax City, for-profit, have one or more locations in the City, and include home-based businesses, start-ups, or expanding businesses. Fairfax City Economic Development (FCED) spotlights women-owned businesses with a grant opportunity and a luncheon. Post this "We are very proud of the women business owners who have chosen to establish their businesses here in the City, many venturing into this role for the first time," said Fairfax City Mayor Catherine Read. "Investing in their success means finding ways to help them sustain their operations. Our Economic Development Department continues to develop programs that address the many facets of business ownership, and we will remain creative in how we support our local businesses." "Fairfax City's women-owned businesses drive economic growth and innovation," added Fairfax City Economic Development CEO and Director Christopher Bruno. "These businesses mean so much to our city and the local economy here in Northern Virginia. This grant opportunity aims to support these local leaders as they continue to inspire everyone by achieving business success here in Fairfax City." The second initiative directed at women-owned businesses is the Women's Economic Empowerment Luncheon, set to take place on September 25 from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. For the first time since 2019, Fairfax City Economic Development Authority (EDA), the City of Fairfax Commission for Women (CFW), the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce, and the Old Town Fairfax Business Association are hosting an in-person luncheon to celebrate and strengthen these organizations. At this event, participants can expect a panel discussion moderated by Mayor Catherine Read, a guest speaker, a catered lunch from a women-owned business, a chance to connect with business support services, and networking opportunities with other women business owners. Each agenda item seeks to provide insights to help strengthen marketing and self-promotion efforts and allow women-owned City businesses to showcase their operations. "I'm proud to support the Women's Entrepreneur Empowerment Grant and the Women's Economic Empowerment Luncheon, which reflect FCED's commitment to fostering inclusivity in Fairfax City's business community," said Fairfax City EDA Chair Mitchell Cho. "These programs are not just about providing financial support but also about creating a supportive ecosystem that helps women entrepreneurs thrive and contribute to a dynamic local economy." To apply for the grant opportunity and to purchase tickets for the luncheon, please visit the FCED website. About Fairfax City Economic Development Fairfax City Economic Development is a collaboration between the Fairfax City Economic Development Department and the Fairfax City Economic Development Authority, an independent agency administered by a commission appointed by the City Council to promote economic development activity within Fairfax. Fairfax City Economic Development helps attract businesses to the city, encourages and develops programs that foster connections between businesses, residents, and visitors of Fairfax City, and spearheads innovative programs and strategies devoted to positioning Fairfax City as an ideal location to start, grow, and scale a business. It is a founding member of the Northern Virginia Economic Development Alliance. Learn more at gofairfaxcity.com. SOURCE Fairfax City Economic Development MIAMI, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Global expert services and consulting firm Berkeley Research Group (BRG) announced today the addition of John T. Boyer Sr. as a director in the firm's Global Construction practice, based in Miami. A highly accomplished architectural engineer, he brings nearly 40 years of experience in building environmental systems. Boyer's construction expertise encompasses litigation support and engineering expert witness services; forensic engineering; property loss investigations; architectural engineering; mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) engineering; fire suppression and protection engineering; smart and connected building performance management and design; building code applications and best practices; and engineering-related business development. "BRG is thrilled to welcome John to the team," said Richard Fultineer, a BRG managing director and head of the Global Construction practice. "As our clients continue to embrace sustainable construction practices and strive to maintain a high standard of care on their sites, John's extensive experience and architectural engineering know-how will add new depth to our capabilities." Boyer previously held several engineering and architectural leadership positions. He contributed to the American Bar Association reference book More Sticks & Bricks A Lawyer's Guide to Advanced Construction Systems and Techniques and has lectured in graduate-level courses including "MEP Forensics" and "Building Failures." "BRG offers a wide range of expertise and resources that will greatly complement the work I do on behalf of my clients," Boyer said. "I am looking forward to collaborating with my new colleagues at the firm." Boyer is an American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Certified Engineering Expert Witness (EXW) and has obtained domestic PE licensure and Associate AIA status, among other credentials. Boyer joins BRG's Global Construction practice on the heels of Caleb Sturm, who joined BRG's Atlanta office as a director in May, and Managing Director David Reichard and Director Roberto Beauchamp. Reichard and Beauchamp joined BRG in March and are based in Orlando and Miami, respectively. About BRG Berkeley Research Group, LLC is a global consulting firm that helps leading organizations advance in three key areas: economics, disputes and investigations; corporate finance; and performance improvement and advisory. Headquartered in California with offices around the world, we are an integrated group of experts, industry leaders, academics, data scientists and professionals working across borders and disciplines. We harness our collective expertise to deliver the inspired insights and practical strategies our clients need to stay ahead of what's next. Visit thinkbrg.com to learn more. SOURCE BRG SILVER SPRING, Md., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is providing an at-a-glance summary of news from around the agency: On Monday, the FDA issued a Safety Alert advising restaurants and retailers not to serve or sell, and consumers not to eat certain oysters from Lewis Bay , Massachusetts , due to potential contamination with Campylobacter jejuni. , , due to potential contamination with Campylobacter jejuni. On Monday, the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) released a Discussion Paper: Health Equity For Medical Devices to obtain feedback about ways to help ensure that all patients have timely access to safe, effective, and high-quality medical devices and safe radiation-emitting products. This paper requests feedback on possible considerations that may help inform the design of a clinical study that adequately reflects the intended use population for a particular medical device. Consistent with CDRH's 2022 to 2025 Strategic Priority to advance health equity, this paper is intended to spur discussions about reducing barriers to achieving health equity and strategies that may help improve outcomes across diverse populations. Please submit comments under docket number FDA-2024-N-3616 at www.regulations.gov by October 4, 2024 . to obtain feedback about ways to help ensure that all patients have timely access to safe, effective, and high-quality medical devices and safe radiation-emitting products. This paper requests feedback on possible considerations that may help inform the design of a clinical study that adequately reflects the intended use population for a particular medical device. Consistent with CDRH's 2022 to 2025 Strategic Priority to advance health equity, this paper is intended to spur discussions about reducing barriers to achieving health equity and strategies that may help improve outcomes across diverse populations. Please submit comments under docket number FDA-2024-N-3616 at www.regulations.gov by . On Monday, the FDA's Digital Health Center of Excellence (DHCoE) published its summer edition newsletter that shares the latest digital health advancements to protect and promote public health. As AI continues to advance with more sophisticated algorithms and more data available than ever before, it's important to consider ways to align on methodologies, best practices, and quality assurance standards to help all people living in the U.S. truly benefit from AI's tremendous capability in health care settings. In this edition, DHCoE explores these concepts and potential approaches for addressing these questions. The FDA's Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA) has partnered with the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) and the North Carolina State University ( NC State ) to create a new course to introduce degree and non-degree seeking students to the possibilities of a career in public health. This dynamic new course, Introduction to Public Health Food Inspections, is the first of its kind anywhere in the country and offers students a comprehensive understanding of the federal regulatory food inspections and enforcement system. To learn more about this dynamic new course, please visit www.nasda.org/inspectioncourse. Completion of the course offers students college credit to build their resumes as well as a potential pathway for equivalency testing for specific topics. Students with these credentials and training will be sought after by the Agency and should strongly consider applying for vacant positions advertised on USA Jobs, and for positions with our state and local public health partners. In the future, the FDA and NASDA hope this course can be replicated at other higher education institutions across the country. Additional Resources: Media Contact: FDA Office of Media Affairs, 301-796-4540 Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation's food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products. SOURCE U.S. Food and Drug Administration One in four TV stations in the top 20 markets have no Asian American women on air Just one percent of broadcasters are Asian American men Seven recommendations offer medium to long-term solutions NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A groundbreaking analysis by the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) reveals significant challenges for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) reporters, anchors, meteorologists, and hosts on-air. "The State of Asian American Female and Male TV Broadcasters" will be released during the organization's annual national convention in Austin, Texas (Aug. 7-11). You can preview it here. Unique findings on the challenges faced by AANHPI Female Broadcasters Male AANHPI TV broadcasters represent just 1% of all broadcasters in the top-20 TV markets "Both female and male AANHPI broadcast journalists face career challenges, but often in different ways that aren't widely understood, which is particularly challenging given stereotypes and biases towards AANHPIs." says Naomi Tacuyan Underwood, AAJA Executive Director. "For instance, data shows that despite improvements in recent years, AANHPI men are far from reaching full representation, while AANHPI women are seldom given full-time roles." "This new analysis shows how far we still have to go," says Chris Nguyen, AAJA Governing Board Member and Co-Chair of AAJA's Broadcast Task Force, which will release the study's findings during its pinnacle reception. "Every day these reporters face stereotypes like demasculinization for AANHPI men or sexualization for AANHPI women that heighten the challenge for AANHPI TV broadcasters." Rep. Judy Chu, chair of the Asian American Congressional Caucus (CAPAC), has engaged the issue of AANHPIs in the news industry in her work on the Hill. Chu says, "For our community to be seen as the contributors they are in towns across the country and to our democracy, we have to reach full representation in journalism. That means including the faces of all our AANHPI communityparity based on origin and genderon and off air." UNIQUE FINDINGS 5 Challenges for Female AANHPI TV Broadcasters No AANHPI women are on-air in 25 of 94 stations. Half of TV stations underrepresent AANHPI female broadcasters (in the top 10 TV markets; based on the AANHPI female population) 1 AANHPI Woman represents the only AANHPI broadcaster at 18 of 94 stations. In communities where AANHPI population is below the national average, on-air AANHPI women are 46% underrepresented 162 of 3,297 (5%) broadcasters in the top 20 DMAs are AANHPI women 5 Challenges for Male AANHPI TV Broadcasters No AANHPI men are on-air in 67 of 94 stations. 1% of 3,297 broadcasters are AANHPI men. 70% Underrepresented: If AANHPI male market population is considered, only 3 AANHPI male broadcasters work where 10 might. 1 in 10 TV stations hires as many AANHPI male broadcasters as is representative of their market's AANHPI male population 170% Improvement. In 2002, 17 AANHPI men were on air. In 2021, there were 46. 7 Recommendations COLLABORATION. Create partnership action plans between Media, Academia, Government and NGO communities. TAP AFFILIATES. Uplift affiliate talent to national, and smaller market affiliate talent to medium- large markets. Deploy programs to identify candidates. POSITION EXISTING TALENT. Assign and choose AANHPI women and men to prominent on-air positions, beats and stories. AANHPI PRODUCERS. Hire and develop AANHPI producers, who can help mitigate challenges AANHPI broadcasters face on camera. LAYERED APPROACH. Engage the pipeline: a) middle school, b) high school, c) community college, d) four-year education, e) entry-level job, f) early career, g) mid-career, h) late career, i) career transition, j) retirement. TOUGH QUESTIONS. Engage third-party research to ask core questions that media presidents and CEOs want to ask on diverse broadcaster gaps but cannot. ANNUAL CONVENING. An annual, pinnacle, public discussion and status evaluation. This panel or salon will huddle leaders and decision makers from multiple sectors. ABOUT "THE STATE OF ASIAN AMERICAN FEMALE AND MALE TV BROADCASTERS" AAJA released the "Broadcast Snapshot" in 2022 in the absence of publicly available diversity data. "The State of Asian American Female and Male TV Broadcasters" includes new analysis done in 2024 based on the data from the "Broadcast Snapshot." The 2022 and 2024 releases build on AAJA's mission to advance diversity in newsrooms and ensure fair and accurate coverage of communities of color. The base data comes from July to September 2021, when AAJA staff and member volunteers surveyed 94 local, English-language commercial TV stations in the top 20 DMAs. Project staff used resources such as station websites, AAJA membership, and public pages to find on-air staff who either looked AANHPI or self-identified as AANHPI. Information collected included the number of AANHPI on-air staff, the AANHPI population, and station ownership. This effort revealed a total of 201 AANHPI on-air staffers across the top 20 DMAs. "The State of Asian American Female and Male TV Broadcasters" is a release from the AAJA Broadcast Task Force; with contributions from AAJA National Office Staff; Alex Lo, AAJA Member; Karen Narasaki, former Commissioner of the US Commission on Civil Rights; Doris Truong, former AAJA president; Andrew Tran, AAJA Member; and PRISCA. The Broadcast Snapshot (2022) can be found here. The 2024 analysis from "The State of Asian American Female and Male TV Broadcasters" can be found here. For more information or interviews, please email [email protected]. SOURCE Prisca; Asian American Journalists Association's Broadcast Task Force Flume's Smart Leak Detection Helps Homeowners Prevent Costly and Avoidable Flooding SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Flume, a pioneer in residential leak detection technology, is excited to announce a new collaboration with Amica Insurance. By utilizing an advanced smart leak detection device, homeowners can significantly mitigate the risk of catastrophic water damage caused by leaks. The Flume Smart Water Monitor system provides a proactive, digitally driven approach to leak detection, reducing water damage claim cost by up to 80%. Increasing the adoption of this technology can help homeowners avoid the financial burden and disruption of preventable flooding. Flume sensor and smartphone application "1.3 million U.S. homeowners experience water damage annually, leading to substantial financial and emotional stress," said Eric Adler, CEO of Flume. "To repair these homes, insurers spend $15B per year on water damage claims which represents 24% of total homeowner insurance claims. By promoting the use of smart leak detection, Flume aims to lower the frequency and severity of these claims. Additionally, this initiative will contribute to water conservation efforts in regions facing water scarcity, as leaks waste an estimated one trillion gallons of water each year." Flume will collaborate with Amica Insurance to distribute Smart Water Monitoring devices to policyholders nationwide. "Flume has been a valued partner of Amica for three years, and we are thrilled to advance our water loss mitigation efforts together," said Laurie Tremblay, Senior Innovation Analyst at Amica. "Water leaks are a leading cause of preventable insurance claims. With Flume's cutting-edge technology, we can empower homeowners to gain better insight into their water usage and proactively prevent water damage." The Flume Smart Water Monitor continuously tracks the water flow through a home's pipes, detecting small leaks before they escalate into major issues. If a problem is detected, the device immediately alerts homeowners via the Flume Water App. Additionally, users can monitor their water usage by fixture and set conservation goals through the app to further support water-saving initiatives. For more information about the Flume Smart Water Monitor, visit flumewater.com . Organizations interested in utilizing this technology can contact Eric Adler at [email protected]. ABOUT FLUME California's 2015 record-breaking drought inspired the Flume founders to provide homeowners with control over their water use. By providing real-time water use information, Flume customers significantly reduce residential water consumption while also protecting their homes from devastating water leaks. Since its inception, the Flume team has expanded their reach via partnerships with the largest water agencies and insurance companies across the United States. To date, Flume has shipped over 150,000 sensors nationwide and has been recognized as the leading supplier of residential water usage and leak data. Learn more at www.flumewater.com. ABOUT AMICA INSURANCE Amica is the longest-standing mutual insurer of automobiles in the U.S. A direct writer, Amica also offers home, life, marine and umbrella insurance, as well as annuities. Founded on the principles of outstanding service, Amica creates peace of mind and builds enduring relationships with its customers. That mission is shared and supported by thousands of employees across the country. For more information, visit Amica.com. CONTACT: Sarah Musiker [email protected] SOURCE Flume, Inc. Gong's AI-Powered Revenue Intelligence Platform Helps Enterprises Boost Productivity, Increase Revenue Predictability and Drive Efficient Growth SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Gong , the Revenue Intelligence leader, has been named to the 2024 Forbes Cloud 100 list, representing the world's best private cloud computing companies. This is the fifth consecutive year that Forbes has appointed Gong to the list. "Gong is the leading AI platform for revenue teams because it empowers them to make better decisions, eliminate sales drudgery, close more deals, and deliver game-changing results," said Gong CMO Emily He. "It's a huge honor to be named to the Forbes Cloud 100 five years in a row and to be noted for our efforts in combining the power of the cloud and AI to transform revenue teams." The Cloud 100, which is produced in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures, is a quantitative and qualitative list determined by four factors. Estimated valuation: An estimate of valuation is determined based on third-party data providers. An estimate of valuation is determined based on third-party data providers. Operating metrics: Revenue and growth Revenue and growth People & culture: Each company is evaluated on its size (e.g., number of people, growth in number of people) and culture. Each company is evaluated on its size (e.g., number of people, growth in number of people) and culture. Market leadership: assessment of the companies' market leadership in various Cloud sectors. Gong helps more than 4,000 revenue teams around the world boost productivity, increase revenue predictability, and drive efficient growth by bringing powerful customer insights to critical revenue workflows. With insights derived from more than three billion customer interactions and proprietary AI models purpose-built for revenue teams, the Gong Revenue Intelligence Platform helps enterprises evolve their go-to-market strategies for optimal outcomes. "For nine years, the Forbes Cloud 100 list has recognized the leading private cloud companies in the world, from AI to work software, infrastructure to security," said Alex Konrad, the Forbes editor of the Cloud 100. "This year's list is the strongest group of standouts yet, with revenue, valuations and growth that will eventually make for historic IPOs." "Across nine years of data, we have yet to see as competitive of a cohort as the 2024 Cloud 100. The list value reached $820 billion this year, the highest list value in Cloud 100 history," said Mary D'Onofrio, partner at Bessemer Venture Partners. "Unsurprisingly, AI is now the highest valued category. We continue to be excited by how AI companies are scaling rapidly, transforming the cloud, and propelling the next wave of growth, driving a massive year-over-year jump in market cap of the list of over $150 billion. "The past year, our industry has seen a generational step forward in innovation, and with AI leading the charge, we are witnessing one of the most important platform shifts in decades," said Paul Drews, managing partner at Salesforce Ventures. "The Cloud 100 list represents the best of the best, and we've never been more excited about what the future holds, not only for the cloud but for the entire technology industry. We are proud of what these founders and their communities have already accomplished, and look forward to seeing how they continue to transform the industry in the future." About Gong Gong transforms revenue organizations by driving business efficiency, revenue growth, and improved decision-making. The Revenue Intelligence Platform uses proprietary artificial intelligence technology to enable teams to capture, understand, and act on all customer interactions in a single, integrated platform. Thousands of companies around the world rely on Gong to support their go-to-market strategies and grow revenue efficiently. For more information, visit www.gong.io. About Forbes Forbes champions success by celebrating those who have made it, and those who aspire to make it. Forbes convenes and curates the most influential leaders and entrepreneurs who are driving change, transforming business and making a significant impact on the world. The Forbes brand today reaches more than 140 million people worldwide through its trusted journalism, signature LIVE and Forbes Virtual events, custom marketing programs and 45 licensed local editions in 76 countries. Forbes Media's brand extensions include real estate, education and financial services license agreements. About Bessemer Venture Partners Bessemer Venture Partners helps entrepreneurs lay strong foundations to build and forge long-standing companies. With more than 145 IPOs and 300 portfolio companies in the enterprise, consumer and healthcare spaces, Bessemer supports founders and CEOs from their early days through every stage of growth. Bessemer's global portfolio has included Pinterest, Shopify, Twilio, Yelp, LinkedIn, PagerDuty, DocuSign, Wix, Fiverr, and Toast and has $20 billion of assets under management. Bessemer has teams of investors and partners located in Tel Aviv, Silicon Valley, San Francisco, New York, London, Hong Kong, Boston, and Bangalore. Born from innovations in steel more than a century ago, Bessemer's storied history has afforded its partners the opportunity to celebrate and scrutinize its best investment decisions (see Memos ) and also learn from its mistakes (see Anti-Portfolio ). About Salesforce Ventures Salesforce Ventures helps enterprising founders build companies that reinvent the way the world works. Since 2009, we've invested in and partnered with more than 400 of the world's most tenacious enterprise software companies from seed to IPO, including Anthropic, Cohere, Airtable, Databricks, DocuSign, Guild Education, monday.com, nCino, Snowflake, Snyk, Stripe, Tanium, and Zoom. Salesforce Ventures leverages our decades of expertise in the cloud and our long-term relationships with key decision-makers at thousands of businesses around the world to give our portfolio companies an advantage, help them build credibility, and accelerate growth. Salesforce Ventures has invested in more than 25 countries with offices all over the world including in San Francisco, Irvine, New York, London, and Tokyo. Follow @SalesforceVC and learn more at http://www.salesforceventures.com. SOURCE Gong ST. LOUIS, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Graybar, a leading distributor of electrical, communications and data networking products and provider of related supply chain management and logistics services, has named Lauren Baker Vice President - Strategic Planning. Baker most recently served as Vice President, Marketing for Copeland, formerly Emerson Climate Technologies. Prior to that, she worked for Emerson in a variety of strategic planning and marketing roles since 2011. Baker holds a bachelor's degree in industrial and systems engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and master's degrees in business administration and engineering management from Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management. "We are pleased to welcome Lauren to Graybar," said William P. Mansfield, Graybar's senior vice president strategy and business development. "As our industry evolves, Graybar remains focused on expanding our reach, enhancing our capabilities, and delivering exceptional service to our customers. With her strong track record and innovative approach, Lauren will help us explore opportunities for achieving sustainable growth and market leadership for years to come. We are excited that she has joined our team, and we look forward to working with her to shape our company's future." Graybar, a Fortune 500 corporation and one of the largest employee-owned companies in North America, is a leader in the distribution of high quality electrical, communications and data networking products, and specializes in related supply chain management and logistics services. Through its network of more than 345 North American distribution facilities, it stocks and sells products from thousands of manufacturers, helping its customers power, network, automate and secure their facilities with speed, intelligence and efficiency. For more information, visit www.graybar.com or call 1-800-GRAYBAR. Media Contact: Tim Sommer (314) 578-7672 [email protected] SOURCE Graybar ROSEMONT, Ill., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The inaugural Rm8 iNov8 Pitch Competition was held August 5 at the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA)'s 2024 Annual Congress in San Diego. The competition showcased innovative solutions that improve patient safety, outcomes, or provider experience for anesthesia providers such as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), also known as nurse anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists. HAI Solutions (HAIS) was the winner of the competition, winning a $15,000 prize and a chance to build its business with Rm8, AANA's innovation lab. HAI Solutions is developing a unique portfolio of medical devices that addresses the growing plague of contamination within the operating room, emergency room, and intensive care units. HAIS's platform of innovative vascular access technology targets the prevention of healthcare-associated infections like central line bloodstream infection, catheter-related bloodstream infection, and surgical site infections. The company was co-founded by Nicholas Perrenoud, MSN, CRNA, and Paul Swaney, MBA, with the goal of revolutionizing the delivery of intravenous medication and improving patient safety. "Winning the Rm8 iNov8 competition is an incredible honor. To share my personal journey on a national stage and have the opportunity to potentially help millions as a future outcome is a dream come true," Perrenoud said. "This recognition is a testament to countless hours of dedication, both of myself and of my team, and the unwavering belief in the power of innovation!" Rm8 (pronounced "Room 8")'s unique programs and initiatives aim to revolutionize the way healthcare startups are nurtured, supported, and connected with the broader healthcare community. Rm8 provides a supportive environment for members and others to incubate product and service ideas or facilitate growth in emerging startups. With a focus on collaboration, the initiative creates an opportunity to bridge healthcare startups with the nurse anesthesiologist community as well the broader healthcare market. SOURCE American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology CALGARY, AB, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Horizon Petroleum Ltd. (the "Company" or "Horizon") (TSXV: HPL) is pleased to report that further notifications have been received from the Polish Ministry of Climate and Environment (" the Ministry") concerning the Transformation Process Applications for two concession licence areas: Bielsko-Biala and Cieszyn (the Concessions) located in southwest Poland. As noted in its May 14, 2024 press release, the applications have been made through the Company's two wholly owned subsidiary companies in Poland. The Company has been advised by the Ministry that they have received clearance from the relevant Government Agencies to grant the two Concessions to the Company's subsidiary in Poland. Given the timeline provided by the Ministry the Company expects the formal grant and signing of the Concession by end August or early September. The Company will inform the market when the final licences are signed. Once the licences are formally awarded and the agreements signed, the Company plans to immediately apply for re-instatement as a Tier 2 issuer on the TSX-Venture Stock Exchange. Dr. David Winter CEO of Horizon commented, " We are pleased that with the signing of the Concessions, Horizon will be able to start work towards its goal of initial production and cash flow from the Lachowice gas discovery in the Bielsko-Biala Concession in 2025. The signing of the concession agreements will also allow the Company to book approximately 33 Bcfe of Net Probable reserves with a Net Present Value ("NPV") (discounted at 10%) of approximately CAD $ 100 million. The Company will also recognise 156 Bcfe of Risked 2C contingent resources of natural gas with a NPV (discounted at 10%) of approximately CAD$ 530 million." About Horizon Petroleum Ltd. Calgary-based Horizon is focused on the appraisal and development of natural gas reserves and clean energy sources to increase energy independence and security in Europe. The Management and Board of Horizon consist of oil & gas, business and finance professionals with significant international experience. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This press release contains "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" (collectively referred to herein as "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, forecasts, estimates, expectations and objectives for future operations that are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of Horizon. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur or be achieved. This press release contains forward-looking statements pertaining to, among other things entering into the Concessions and completion of the transformation process and the furtherance of Horizon's European acquisition and development strategy. There is no assurance the Concession will be granted or the transformation process will be completed. Forward-looking information is based on current expectations, estimates and projections that involve a number of risks, which could cause actual results to vary and in some instances to differ materially from those anticipated by Horizon and described in the forward-looking information contained in this press release. Although Horizon believes that the material factors, expectations and assumptions expressed in such forward-looking statements are reasonable based on information available to it on the date such statements were made, no assurances can be given as to future results, levels of activity and achievements and such statements are not guarantees of future performance. SOURCE Horizon Petroleum Ltd. NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global hospital furniture market size is estimated to grow by USD 8 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.06% during the forecast period. Rise in international accreditation by hospitals is driving market growth, with a trend towards growing geriatric population. However, limited sustainability of smaller vendors in global hospital furniture market poses a challenge. Key market players include ActiveAid LLC, Arjo AB, Baxter International Inc., Biomedical Solutions Inc., Chang Gung Medical Technology Co. Ltd., GF Health Products Inc., GPC Medical Ltd., IndoSurgicals Pvt. Ltd., Industrias H. Pardo SL, Invacare Corp., LINET Group SE, Medline Industries LP, Narang Medical Ltd., NAUSICAA MEDICAL SAS, PARAMOUNT BED HOLDINGS CO. LTD., Renray Healthcare, STERIS plc, Stryker Corp., Sunrise Medical LLC, and The Brewer Co. LLC. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global hospital furniture market 2024-2028 Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies- View the snapshot of this report Hospital Furniture Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2023 Historic period 2018 - 2022 Forecast period 2024-2028 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 8.06% Market growth 2024-2028 USD 8 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 7.1 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing market contribution APAC at 28% Key countries US, Germany, China, Canada, and UK Key companies profiled ActiveAid LLC, Arjo AB, Baxter International Inc., Biomedical Solutions Inc., Chang Gung Medical Technology Co. Ltd., GF Health Products Inc., GPC Medical Ltd., IndoSurgicals Pvt. Ltd., Industrias H. Pardo SL, Invacare Corp., LINET Group SE, Medline Industries LP, Narang Medical Ltd., NAUSICAA MEDICAL SAS, PARAMOUNT BED HOLDINGS CO. LTD., Renray Healthcare, STERIS plc, Stryker Corp., Sunrise Medical LLC, and The Brewer Co. LLC Market Driver The global population of older adults, defined as individuals aged 65 years and above, is growing at an accelerated rate. According to The World Bank Group, approximately 8.87% of the world's population falls into this category. This demographic trend is driven by increasing life expectancy and declining fertility rates. In developed and developing countries alike, older adults constitute a significant portion of the population. For instance, Japan and Germany each have over 30% and 22% of their populations aged 65 and above, respectively. The older population's increased dependency on healthcare services is a key driver for the hospital furniture market. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer, obesity, heart diseases, and asthma are prevalent among this demographic. As the immune system weakens with age, older adults are more susceptible to these diseases. Consequently, there is a growing demand for better healthcare services and hospital furniture, particularly beds, to cater to this population segment. In developing and underdeveloped nations, manual beds are the preferred choice due to their affordability. Older adults, who often require long-term care and home care, opt for manual beds over expensive automated hospital beds. However, the increasing disposable income and the rise of sophisticated healthcare facilities have made semi-automated hospital beds more accessible to consumers. As the consumption of all types of hospital beds increases with the growing older population, the global hospital furniture market is poised for substantial growth during the forecast period. The older population's health issues include arthritis, vision and eye diseases, body aches and muscle pain, Alzheimer's disease and dementia, and heart diseases. During hospitalization, patients require beds depending on the type of medical services, such as critical or intensive care, acute care, or long-term care. The rising older population across the world will drive the demand for home healthcare solutions, leading to increased sales of healthcare support products like beds. The Hospital Furniture Market is witnessing significant growth, with key products including Stretchers, Hospital Beds, Chairs, Scrub Sinks, Waste Containers, and Trolleys. The Beds segment is further segmented into ICU Beds, Fowler Beds, Ordinary Hospital Beds, Pediatric Beds, Maternity Beds, and more. The Chairs sector includes Birthing Chairs, Dialysis Chairs, Ophthalmology Chairs, ENT Chairs, Dentistry Chairs, Pediatric Chairs, Bariatric Chairs, and Geriatric Chairs. End users include Hospitals, Diagnostic Centers, and Clinics. Physician's Furniture includes Examination Stools, Lights, and Drawers, while Patient's Furniture includes Examination Sofas, Over-bed Tables, and Benches. Staff's Furniture includes Surgical Chairs and Examining Tables. This market caters to various end-users and applications, especially for those with chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiac arrest. Additionally, Wheelchairs and Walkers are essential mobility aids for patients. Discover 360 analysis of this market. For complete information, schedule your consultation - Book Here! Market Challenges The global hospital furniture market is a competitive industry, with major players like Arjo, Invacare Corporation, and Stryker holding significant market share. New entrants face challenges due to the high manufacturing costs for small and medium players, limiting their ability to produce in large quantities. Established players, such as Arjo and Invacare Corporation, are expanding their manufacturing facilities globally, particularly in developing countries. Inorganic growth strategies, including mergers and acquisitions, collaborations, and partnerships, are common for market leaders to broaden their product offerings and increase revenue. These factors create a challenging environment for new vendors, potentially leading to market consolidation and increased competition. The Hospital Furniture Market faces several challenges in catering to the unique needs of various healthcare settings. Chronic wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, and pressure ulcers require specialized wound care devices. Meeting these requirements calls for advanced medical technology and robust healthcare infrastructure. Medical carts, powdered beds, manual beds, electric beds, and semi-electric beds are essential for patient-centered care in acute and long-term care settings. Major industry players focus on addressing challenges like mobility, seating, transfer, and transport in bariatric beds, mobility equipment, and home care solutions. Elderly illnesses, obesity, paralysis, and therapy add to the complexity. Government initiatives and hospital and clinic investments in modern healthcare practices further influence market growth. Medical facilities prioritize patient expectations, hospital infrastructure, and costs, which include medical furniture like examination tables, operational tables, obstetric tables, and bedside tables, as well as instrument stands. Overall, the market demands innovative, cost-effective, and adaptable solutions for diverse patient needs. For more insights on driver and challenges - Request a sample report! Segment Overview This hospital furniture market report extensively covers market segmentation by Application 1.1 Physician furniture 1.2 Patient furniture 1.3 Staff furniture Product 2.1 Hospital beds 2.2 Specialty medical chairs and tables 2.3 Others Geography 3.1 North America 3.2 Europe 3.3 APAC 3.4 Middle East and Africa and 3.5 South America 1.1 Physician furniture- The Hospital Furniture Market is experiencing steady growth due to increasing healthcare infrastructure investments. Hospitals are focusing on providing comfortable and functional spaces for patients and staff. Key players in this market include Steelcase Health, INA International, and Herman Miller. They offer a range of products like beds, chairs, and storage solutions, designed to enhance the healthcare experience. Market trends include the use of antimicrobial materials and adjustable furniture for patient comfort and ease of use for healthcare staff. For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2017-2021) - Download a Sample Report Learn and explore more about Technavio's in-depth research reports The global Refurbished Medical Imaging Equipment market is experiencing robust growth due to cost-efficiency and technological advancements. Key drivers include increasing healthcare demands and budget constraints. In contrast, the global Wooden Furniture is driven by rising consumer preferences for sustainable and aesthetically pleasing home furnishings. Research Analysis The Hospital Furniture Market has experienced significant growth due to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and the rising patient expectations for comfortable and high-quality healthcare environments. According to an Analyst Review, the market is expected to expand at a steady pace, driven by the need for hospital infrastructure upgrades and the impact of the pandemic on healthcare delivery. Elderly illnesses, obesity, and hospital admissions are key factors fueling the demand for mobility equipment and specialized furniture for hospitals and clinics. Regulatory compliance and insurance & reimbursement scenarios also play a crucial role in the market's dynamics. Hospital furniture designs continue to evolve, with a focus on patient care and comfort, including plain hospital beds, examination chairs, ophthalmic chairs, dental chairs, physician furniture, staff furniture, and examination couches. Developing economies and healthcare facilities such as nursing homes and medical centers are also significant contributors to the market's growth. The Hospital Beds segment is expected to dominate the market due to the increasing number of hospitalizations. Disposable income and the aging population further boost the demand for hospital furniture in both developed and developing economies. Market Research Overview The Hospital Furniture Market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiac arrest, and obesity, leading to an increase in hospital admissions. Patient expectations for comfort and mobility, especially for elderly illnesses and paralysis, are driving the demand for mobility equipment like bariatric wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Hospital infrastructure development and government initiatives are also contributing to market growth. The beds segment, including ICU beds, Fowler beds, ordinary hospital beds, pediatric beds, maternity beds, and bariatric beds, is a major application area for hospital furniture. The hospital chairs sector includes various types of chairs for specific medical applications such as birthing chairs, dialysis chairs, ophthalmology chairs, ENT chairs, dentistry chairs, pediatric chairs, bariatric chairs, and geriatric chairs. Hospital furniture is used for both patients and staff, including examination sofas, examination lights, drawers, benches, over-bed tables, physician's furniture, and examining tables. Surgical chairs, end users such as Hospitals, Diagnostic Centers, and Clinics, and insurance & reimbursement scenarios also influence market trends. Hospital furniture designs are evolving to include smart beds with advanced features and regulatory compliance. The market includes offline and online sales channels, and materials used include metal and wood. Bariatric surgery, patient lifts, and smart beds are other key applications. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Application Physician Furniture Patient Furniture Staff Furniture Product Hospital Beds Specialty Medical Chairs And Tables Others Geography North America Europe APAC Middle East And Africa South America 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio WASHINGTON and OTTAWA, ON, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Joint Commission (IJC) has launched a public comment period related to the study of transboundary water pollution in the Elk-Kootenai/y watershed. This comment period will run from August 6-27 to provide interested parties with a convenient opportunity to share their perspectives on the IJC study. Comments may be emailed to [email protected] or submitted through our website. The IJC is also hosting a one-hour public webinar on this study later today, Tuesday, August 6, at 6:30 pm MDT (5:30 pm PDT). All interested parties are invited to attend. The webinar will include a presentation and question-and-answer period that will focus on the IJC's activities to date related to the establishment of an IJC study board to report and make recommendations on water pollution within the Elk-Kootenai/y watershed, as well as the Commission's role to provide assistance in the development of a Terms of Reference for a Governance Body. The study board is being established in response to a request ("Reference") to the IJC from the governments of the United States and Canada that incorporates a proposal developed in partnership with the Ktunaxa Nation. Please register to participate in the webinar and submit any questions or comments during the registration process or by email at [email protected]. Questions submitted in advance will be addressed during the information session. This webinar will be held in English only. Share your thoughts on the Elk-Kootenai/y Water Pollution Study: Public Comment Period August 6-27, 2024 Participate in the Tuesday, August 6 webinar: Webinar Registration - Zoom Quick Facts The Elk River rises in the Canadian Rockies and flows into the United States at Lake Koocanusa (also known as Koocanusa Reservoir), an impoundment of the Kootenay/Kootenai River. It then flows through the states of Montana and Idaho , and through transboundary Ktunaxa lands, on its way back to the province of British Columbia , where it empties into the Columbia River. rises in the Canadian Rockies and flows into at Lake Koocanusa (also known as Koocanusa Reservoir), an impoundment of the Kootenay/Kootenai River. It then flows through the states of and , and through transboundary Ktunaxa lands, on its way back to the province of , where it empties into the Columbia River. The IJC received the Reference regarding transboundary water pollution in the Elk- Kootenai /y watershed from the governments in March 2024. Contacts Paul Allen Ottawa 613-222-1475 [email protected] Ed Virden Washington 202-372-7990 [email protected] SOURCE International Joint Commission LONDON, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In the Footsteps of Marco Polo, featuring Stanley and Max Johnson, premiered at Curzon Mayfair on Wednesday, July 3. The documentary follows their 2023 road trip to the Forbidden City in Beijing, the end of the Silk Road. The 2,500-mile journey took them through some of the most beautiful places on Earth. Stanley said: "Completing the Silk Road has taken 62 years and was something Michael and Tim, my two late co-conspirators, would have loved to have been a part of. "Being able to pick up where I left off more than six decades ago and complete this journey, with my son by my side, is something I will never forget. "But while this journey meant a lot to me personally, there is a bigger picture. The project presented an opportunity to show the importance of travel, multiculturalism and how the English language can be a force of unity that goes beyond borders and unites us all." Max Johnson added: "By retracing Marco's historic journey, we hope bridges of mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and lasting collaboration can and will be built between China and Europe." The 90-minute documentary was supported by Global Education (GEDU) and the English Path language program. Mike Summerfield, the managing director of English Path, said: "This production exemplifies how language can unite cultures and break down barriers. We are changing lives through education across 12 countries, and we are immensely proud to support Stanley and Max's remarkable journey." Dale Templar, Managing Director of One Tribe TV, told the gathering: "At a time when the world is facing many challenges In the Footsteps of Marco Polo is a remarkable example of international film-making collaboration in action." His Excellency Zheng Zeguang, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the UK, expressed his own satisfaction at the close collaboration that had been achieved at every level between the China and the UK in the planning and execution of the project. "This is a truly remarkable initiative," Ambassador Zheng said, "which deserves the support of everyone. Mr Stanley Johnson's travel, like the story of Marco Polo, will help people in the UK to learn about the real China." Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2476332/GEDU_Global_Education_Logo.jpg SOURCE Global Education (GEDU) HSINCHU, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The amicoipet smart pet collar, jointly developed by the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) and Amicoipet Biotech Inc., has won a gold medal at the Concours Lepine International 2024 in Paris, France. Amicoipet Biotechs smart pet collar, developed using the ITRI-licensed iPetWeaR technology, has won a gold medal at the Concours Lepine International 2024. Based on ITRI's iPetWeaR smart pet collar technologyrecognized as a CES Innovation Award honoree and recipient of the HealthTech Award of the ASOCIO ICT Award in 2022, and was licensed to Amicoipet Biotech the same yearthis award-winning collar offers continuous non-contact monitoring of pets' heart rates, respiration, activity levels, sleep patterns, and exercise performance. Utilizing low-power physiological detection radar and advanced activity analysis algorithms, the AIoT collar delivers comprehensive health management services regardless of pet size or fur length, enabling seamless on-the-go healthcare. In addition to providing proactive alerts in case of abnormalities, the collar also includes pet loss prevention features. This versatile technology can also be adapted for use in sleeping pads, clothing, and other accessories. Jen-Chieh Cheng, Vice President and General Director of the Service Systems Technology Center at ITRI, stated, "For pet owners, the health and well-being of their beloved companions are of utmost importance. The growing demand for high-quality pet products and services has driven us to develop innovative solutions. Leveraging our expertise in information and communication technology and interdisciplinary integration, we have created a device that truly meets these needs. We are honored to receive a gold medal at the Concours Lepine, and being part of one of the world's most prestigious invention fairs provides us with an excellent opportunity to align our innovation with global market demands." Anne Lin, CEO of Amicoipet Biotech, commented, "Our smart collar utilizes AI to collect and analyze physiological data from pets, providing owners and veterinarians with real-time insights. This facilitates a deeper understanding of pets' preferences and habits, allowing for the early detection of anomalies, ensuring prompt and comprehensive care at home and in clinics. We are pleased to report that, during the exposition in Paris, this technology received high praise from veterinary hospitals and veterinarians, who expressed optimism about its potential impact on pet healthcare." A testament to human ingenuity for over a century, the Concours Lepine has served as a launchpad for groundbreaking inventions. Held annually at the Foire de Paris, this prestigious international competition showcases nearly 250 innovations, attracting around 400,000 visitors worldwide during its 12-day run. Boasting a rich 123-year history as of 2024, the Concours Lepine has fostered creations that have become staples in our daily lives, including the electric vacuum cleaner, washing machine, and ballpoint pen. About ITRI Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) is one of the world's leading technology R&D institutions aiming to innovate a better future for society. Founded in 1973, ITRI has played a vital role in transforming Taiwan's industries from labor-intensive into innovation-driven. To address market needs and global trends, it has launched its 2035 Technology Strategy and Roadmap that focuses on innovation development in Smart Living, Quality Health, Sustainable Environment, and Resilient Society. Over the years, ITRI has been dedicated to incubating startups and spinoffs, including well-known names such as UMC and TSMC. In addition to its headquarters in Taiwan, ITRI has branch offices in the U.S., Europe, and Japan in an effort to extend its R&D scope and promote international cooperation across the globe. For more information, please visit https://www.itri.org/eng. Media Contact Alex Chang Office of Marketing Communications, ITRI +886-3-591-8165 [email protected] SOURCE Industrial Technology Research Institute ROSEMONT, Ill., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) is proud to announce that Janet Setnor, MSN, CRNA, Col. (Ret), USAFR, NC, has taken office as the 2024-2025 president of the more than 61,000-member organization. A resident of Lakewood Ranch, Florida, Setnor brings to her role more than 25 years of experience as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), a distinguished military career, and vast experience in state and national nurse anesthesiology leadership. Janet Setnor, MSN, CRNA, Col. (Ret), USAFR, NC, AANA 2024-2025 President Setnor said "It is such a rare privilege to have worked with those selfless and dedicated individuals who have led AANA in the past, and to now serve with those who will carry the torch of service into the future. Your Board of Directors recognizes the challenges that continue to confront our profession and its members. There are those who continue to maliciously promote falsehoods regarding the safety and efficacy of our CRNA profession and our right to practice to the full extent of our education and training. They do this for no other reason than to restrict competition and line their own pockets. They are going to be surprised by the fact-based ferocity with which they are going to be held to account in Congress, state legislative houses, and the public forum. We are CRNA inspired and CRNA focused." Setnor has held numerous state and national nurse anesthesiology leadership positions, including previous service on the AANA Board of Directors as President-Elect, Vice-President and, Director (as well as two terms as president of the Virginia Association of Nurse Anesthetists (VANA) She served in the United States Air Force Reserve, retiring with 26 years of honorable service. Setnor's roles included Flight Nurse Instructor/Evaluator, CRNA, and senior staff member for the Air Force Surgeon General. Notably, she served in Afghanistan as both the Anesthesia Team Lead in the largest in-country medical facility and as the sole anesthesia provider at a Special Forces Forward Operating Base. Her extensive involvement with the AANA includes roles as the Association of Veterans Affairs Nurse Anesthetists (AVANA) AANA Liaison, Professional Development Chair, and participation in various committees, including Political Action and Communications. In addition to her work with the AANA and VANA, Setnor has contributed to the Accreditation Association of Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) as a member of the Governance Unit-Standards Development Committee and served as the CRNA Advisor to the Virginia Board of Nursing's Committee of the Joint Board of Medicine and Nursing. An AANA member since 1996, she earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, in 1998. SOURCE American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology The premier global automotive press and industry event announces a new, expanded program for 2024 LOS ANGELES, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Los Angeles Auto Show (LA Auto Show) announced today that attendee registration for AutoMobility LA 2024 (AMLA 2024) is now open. The premier global automotive press and industry event, AMLA 2024 will take place on Thursday, November 21 at the Los Angeles Convention Center and features a new, expanded program for 2024. The event will host thousands of automotive executives, credentialed media representatives, industry thought-leaders and influencers. The focus of AMLA 2024 will be a series of global and North American debuts of new vehicles from automakers from around the world. The full event schedule, including press conferences, will be released in the coming months. This year, for the first time ever, AutoMobility LA will present the Fleet Mobility Showcase, an exhibition of the latest vehicle, technology, and product innovations in the fleet sector, featuring everything from passenger cars to Class 8 heavy duty trucks. Attendees can interact with OEMs, explore their latest product offerings, and enjoy ride and drive experiences in many of the vehicles onsite. A wide range of EVs, HFCEVs, and ICE products will be on display, and confirmed exhibitors include: Ford Pro Nikola Motors Isuzu Commercial Trucks of America The 2024 event will also see the return of AMLA's main stage and a curated content program featuring leading minds in automotive and technology. These experts will explore the most pressing industry issues in a series of real-world case studies, presentations, and panel discussions. Confirmed speakers for this year already include: Marques McCammon President, Karma Automotive President, Hussein Al Attar Director, Automotive Design, BMW Group Designworks Director, Automotive Design, BMW Group Designworks Dr. Mary Jo Madda Senior Program Manager, Google.org "AutoMobility LA is where the top minds in automotive, technology, design, and policy converge to drive our industry forward," said Terri Toennies, president and chief operating officer of the Los Angeles Auto Show and AutoMobility LA. "From our stellar lineup of vehicle debuts to our conference content, this event provides excitement, education, networking, and fosters real-world collaboration opportunities between our attendees. We are thrilled by the innovation and momentum in the automotive industry, and the resulting participation demand at AutoMobility LA 2024." The LA Auto Show is also excited to announce the return of THE ZEVAS, the award program honoring the latest in zero-emission vehicles currently available for sale or pre-order. First launched in 2021, THE ZEVAS celebrate emerging and established automakers and their innovations in new electric and hybrid vehicles, and new zero-emission versions of existing models. California continues to lead the United States in new electric and hybrid vehicle adoption with 26% of all sales in 2023 (source: Edmunds ) so the time and place is perfect to celebrate the consistent, proven innovation and positive impact of the category. Registration for AMLA 2024 is open now and is complimentary for accredited and approved media. Industry attendees can take advantage of an "early bird" registration fee of $149 through October 31. From November 1, the full registration fee of $249 will apply to all approved industry registrants. Register now at https://automobilityla-2024.reg.buzz/. Following AMLA 2024, the LA Auto Show will open its doors to the public from November 22 to December 1, 2024. Stay up to date with the latest show news, updates, and information, follow the LA Auto Show on X , Facebook , Instagram, or LinkedIn and sign up for alerts at laautoshow.com . About the Los Angeles Auto Show & AutoMobility LA Founded in 1907, the Los Angeles Auto Show is recognized as one of the world's most influential automotive events. The show celebrates the enduring love that Angelenos have for their cars and offers a global platform for industry debuts, technology, and innovation. Doors open to the public November 22 December 1 and the show runs for 10 full days, including Thanksgiving Day. It is a must-attend event for prospective car buyers, industry executives, influencers, car enthusiasts, and for families wanting to enjoy an unforgettable day out during the holiday season. Held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, the LA Auto Show contributes several hundred million dollars to the city's economy, stimulates the local job market, and is the number one revenue generator for the Center. On November 21, AutoMobility LA, the show's media and industry day, will include a range of groundbreaking debuts and announcements, and a conference program featuring the leading minds in automotive and technology. These experts will explore the most pressing industry issues in a series of presentations and panel discussions from AutoMobility LA's main stage. Media Contacts Kat Kirsch [email protected] Tania Weinkle [email protected] Dan Sampson Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, Los Angeles Auto Show & AutoMobility LA [email protected] SOURCE Los Angeles Auto Show and AutoMobility LA NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global luxury eyewear market size is estimated to grow by USD 3.94 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period. Innovation and portfolio extension leading to product premiumization is driving market growth, with a trend towards utility of eyewear as a fashion product. However, threat from counterfeit products poses a challenge. Key market players include Arias Eyewear, Astra Lifestyle, CHARMANT Group, Concept Eyewear, Cutler and Gross Ltd., Eleganzo Inc., EssilorLuxottica, Fielmann AG, Kering SA, Marchon Eyewear Inc., Marcolin Spa, MAUI JIM Inc., Maybach Eyewear, Safilo Group S.p.A, SUNGLASSCURATOR, Titan Co. Ltd., and Vision Nexgen. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global luxury eyewear market 2024-2028 Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies- View the snapshot of this report Luxury Eyewear Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2023 Historic period 2018 - 2022 Forecast period 2024-2028 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 4.5% Market growth 2024-2028 USD 3946.1 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 4.23 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution Europe at 37% Key countries US, China, France, Germany, and UK Key companies profiled Arias Eyewear, Astra Lifestyle, CHARMANT Group, Concept Eyewear, Cutler and Gross Ltd., Eleganzo Inc., EssilorLuxottica, Fielmann AG, Kering SA, Marchon Eyewear Inc., Marcolin Spa, MAUI JIM Inc., Maybach Eyewear, Safilo Group S.p.A, SUNGLASSCURATOR, Titan Co. Ltd., and Vision Nexgen Market Driver Luxury eyewear manufacturers and designers are concentrating on creating innovative styles, shapes, sizes, colors, and structural designs for eyeglasses and sunglasses. Consumers now have a wide range of options based on their needs and occasions, such as office wear, casual wear, party wear, and beachwear. Prescription sunglasses have become popular, with many consumers owning two pairs for daily use. Young adults and teenagers are the primary consumers of fashionable luxury sunglasses, enhancing their style. Women's economic independence has expanded their purchasing power for premium and luxury sunglasses. These factors will fuel the demand for luxury eyewear, driving market growth throughout the forecast period. The Luxury Eyewear market is thriving, with international institutions and trade associations reporting significant growth. Trade press and market analysts highlight key market indicators like fashion awareness, radiation protection, and the increasing popularity of smart devices and e-commerce platforms. Sunglasses and eyeglasses remain the segments in focus, with fashion trends, the geriatric population, and contact lenses also contributing. Market-specific developments include the rise of prescription sunglasses and innovative frame designs using exquisite materials. Radiation protection from Ultraviolet A and B is a major concern, particularly for the Ultra-High Net Worth and High-Net Worth segments. Social position, individuality, and a strong fashion statement continue to drive demand. Generation Z and millennial professionals are key consumers, influenced by celebrities and fashion consciousness. Pitfalls and challenges include social inequality, the impact of harmful radiations, and competition from airport shops. The industry's value lies in its ability to cater to the luxury and social status needs of consumers, offering 3D technology, lightweight products, and online sales channels. Discover 360 analysis of this market. For complete information, schedule your consultation - Book Here! Market Challenges The luxury eyewear market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing fashion trends and consumer demand. However, this market growth is threatened by the prevalence of counterfeit luxury eyewear, particularly in developing regions. E-commerce platforms have expanded the reach of these counterfeit products, making it challenging for customers to distinguish between genuine and fake items. This situation undermines consumer trust in e-commerce websites. Vendors invest in advertising and promotion campaigns to retain and attract customers, but these efforts come with high costs, impacting profit margins. Counterfeit products negatively influence sales volume and market growth during the forecast period. The luxury eyewear market encompasses various segments, including Ultra-High Net Worth, High-Net Worth, millennial professionals, and fashion-conscious consumers. Challenges include maintaining brand image, addressing pitfalls like social inequality, and adapting to airport shops and e-commerce channels. UV protection from A and B rays is crucial, as is designing lightweight products using materials like carbon fiber, titanium, fine woods, and diamonds. Rapid urbanization and digitization impact consumer behavior, with millennials and celebrities influencing trends. Celebrities like Antonio Banderas and brands like Police eyewear and Opticalia Eyewear chain shape the market. Macro-economic outlook, socio-political upheaval, tourism, and consumer confidence influence the standard of living and purchasing power. Designing innovative products and adapting to celebrity fashion influence, online sales channels, and 3D technology are essential for market growth. For more insights on driver and challenges - Request a sample report! Segment Overview This luxury eyewear market report extensively covers market segmentation by Type 1.1 Eyeglasses 1.2 Sunglasses Geography 2.1 North America 2.2 Europe 2.3 APAC 2.4 South America 2.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Eyeglasses- The luxury eyewear market is thriving, with numerous brands offering high-end frames and lenses. Consumers seek unique designs and superior quality materials. Brands invest in research and development to create innovative products. Marketing strategies focus on celebrity endorsements and exclusive collaborations to attract customers. The industry's growth is driven by increasing consumer awareness and disposable income. Competition is fierce, requiring continuous product innovation and customer engagement to maintain market share. For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2017-2021) - Download a Sample Report Learn and explore more about Technavio's in-depth research reports The global eyewear market is driven by rising fashion trends and increased demand for vision correction. Key segments include prescription glasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses, with notable growth in the premium segment. Major players such as Luxottica, EssilorLuxottica, and Safilo Group lead the market, focusing on innovation and expanding product lines. The surge in digital device usage and growing awareness of eye health further propel market expansion across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Research Analysis The Luxury Eyewear market is a niche segment within the larger eyewear industry, characterized by its focus on high-end design, exquisite materials, and strong fashion statement. International institutions and trade associations play a crucial role in setting industry standards and trends. The market is extensively covered by trade press and analyzed by experts to identify key market indicators and selected region-specific developments. Smart devices and e-Commerce platforms have significantly impacted the luxury eyewear market, offering consumers greater convenience and access to a wider range of options. Fashion consciousness and awareness are major drivers, with sunglasses and eyeglasses remaining popular choices. Radiation protection, innovative frame designs, and individuality are also key considerations for luxury eyewear consumers. However, the market faces pitfalls and challenges, including the impact of harmful radiations on the eyes and the increasing geriatric population's need for vision correction. Contact lenses and fashion trends are also important factors shaping the market. Overall, the luxury eyewear market caters to those seeking to make a strong fashion statement and enhance their social status. Market Research Overview The Luxury Eyewear market is a niche segment within the broader eyewear industry, focusing on high-end, designer frames for sunglasses and eyeglasses. International institutions and trade associations, such as the International Council of Ophthalmology and the European Union Eyewear Industry Association, provide market insights and research. Market indicators, including fashion consciousness, radiation protection, and the geriatric population, influence market growth. Smart devices, e-Commerce platforms, and fashion trends are driving market-specific developments. Sunglasses and prescription sunglasses remain popular, while eyeglasses cater to those requiring vision correction. Radiation protection and fashion trends are key considerations for both segments. The luxury eyewear market covers various segments, including Ultraviolet A and B protection, Ultra-High Net Worth, High-Net Worth, and millennial professionals. Pitfalls and challenges include social inequality, competition from airport shops, and digitization. Fashion awareness, strong fashion statement, and social status are essential factors. Innovative frame designs, exquisite materials like carbon fiber, titanium, fine woods, and diamonds, and individuality are key selling points. Fashion trends, fashion consciousness, and celebrity influence impact consumer confidence and the standard of living. Notable figures like Antonio Banderas and brands like Police eyewear and Opticalia Eyewear chain contribute to the industry's value. Market-specific developments include the increasing use of 3D technology for customized designs, lightweight products, and the macro-economic outlook, socio-political upheaval, tourism, and consumer confidence. Rapid urbanization and millennials' celebrity fashion influence are also shaping the market. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Type Eyeglasses Sunglasses Geography North America Europe APAC South America Middle East And Africa 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio MemorialCare Cancer Institute uses first-of-its-kind robotic navigated bronchoscopy for greater precision and accuracy. LAGUNA HILLS, Calif., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- MemorialCare Cancer Institute's Lung Cancer Program at Saddleback Medical Center is one of just four hospitals in California equipped with the recently FDA-cleared robotic navigated bronchoscopy system. This new device from NoahMed, Galaxy System, uses integrated tomosynthesis (3D mammography) to navigate to and locate lung nodules, which are small masses in the lungs often tested for cancer. This improved visualization, along with a disposable bronchoscope, enhances precision and accuracy beyond the capabilities of existing technologies. It gives physicians access to often hard-to-reach lesions in the outer third of the lung which are often hard to biopsy. The Galaxy System can biopsy nodules smaller than 2cm, while receiving real-time lesion location updates. "Lung cancer is an insidious disease causing far too high a toll on our communities," said Jayne Stewart, executive director, MemorialCare Cancer Institute, MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center. "The Galaxy System gives physicians trained on the device a clear, direct path to improving patient diagnosis and, in turn, treatment allowing us to catch lung cancer before it reaches less treatable, advanced stages. This new technology gives hope and peace of mind to our patients." Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in the United States and the leading cause of cancer deaths in the country. Still, it can be difficult for physicians to properly find and biopsy lung nodules, delaying diagnosis and complicating treatment. The Galaxy System's "Tool-in-Lesion" TiLT+ Technology has been shown to achieve 100% successful navigation to a lesion, 100% diagnostic yield (every diagnostic test performed accurately identified the presence or absence of cancer), and 95% tool-in-lesion accuracy (Galaxy accurately reached the target lesion) according to the recent MATCH study publication. With its always-on-camera bronchoscope, direct visualization is enabled for the entire procedure, including the time of biopsy. The Galaxy System is the only robotic navigated bronchoscopy system on the market with a single-use, disposable bronchoscope, intentionally designed to improve efficiency and workflow and reduce the risk of cross-contamination. "This technology lets us see lung tissue clearly during biopsy and check areas that were hard to reach before," says Liz Acord, vice president, clinical integration, MemorialCare Cancer Institute. "This means we can find cancer earlier and save more lives. At MemorialCare Cancer Institute, we continuously invest in advanced technology to catch and treat cancer early." MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center offers the latest in technology in lung navigation bronchoscopy to provide earlier diagnosis with greater confidence. Five doctors have been trained on this device, with four having completed cases. The Lung Program at Saddleback Medical Center provides a multidisciplinary team of highly skilled specialists who collaborate to design targeted, customized treatment plans for each patient, giving them access to specialists well beyond one aspect of their cancer. About MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center is a member of MemorialCare, a not-for-profit, integrated healthcare delivery system proudly serving the residents of South Orange County for 50 years. Centers of Excellence include cancer, heart, orthopedics, spine, neurosciences, gastroenterology, emergency and critical care, breast health, imaging, women's health, obstetrics, geriatrics, and minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgery. Saddleback Medical Center received U.S. News & World Report high-performance rankings for cardiology, diabetes, knee replacement, and stroke to name a few. It also was named among Healthgrades America's 250 Best Hospitals, Top 50 U.S. Cardiovascular Hospitals and received Magnet Nursing Excellence designation. In addition, it is a certified geriatric ED Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center and holds Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation. Currently, Saddleback is building the first of its kind Women's Health pavilion bringing women's specialty care under one roof, set to open in Fall 2024. To learn more, visit memorialcare.org/saddleback . SOURCE MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center MORRISVILLE, N.C. and DURHAM, N.C., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Triangle Insights Group (Triangle), a premier strategy consulting firm that advises senior life science leaders in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and related industries on questions related to market access, commercial strategy, product launch, and corporate strategy, today announced two appointments that further strengthen the firm's senior leadership team. Triangle, acquired by life sciences commercialization company Mercalis in April 2022, has named both Aileen Nicoletti, PhD and Michael Turner as Partners. Nicoletti and Turner help to expand and strengthen the product strategy and launch excellence capabilities of Triangle. Nicoletti is a life sciences consultant with over 20 years of experience advising biotech and pharmaceutical clients on portfolio and commercialization strategy. Her focus has involved new product planning, portfolio management, and brand and launch strategy. She is adept at building bridges across functions and telling compelling stories to support key strategic decisions. Her strong operational experience in developing consulting teams, tools, and operations has led to rapid growth of the consulting firms she has led in the past. Nicoletti earned a BS in Chemistry from the College of William and Mary and a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Michigan. Turner is a seasoned leader and client strategic partner with over 25 years of commercial strategy consulting experience in life sciences. He has served as an advisor to emerging and established biopharmaceutical company commercial leaders in new product planning/go-to-market strategy, commercial and competitive strategy, and portfolio strategy. Throughout his career, he has supported the commercialization of over 75 global launch products across most therapeutic areas and has helped over 20 emerging pharma companies prepare for their first US launches. As part of his launch and commercialization work, he has also worked extensively with companies on their patient and physician services programs. Turner holds a BS in Operations Research and Engineering from Cornell University's College of Engineering and an MBA from the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business. "The addition of Aileen and Michael further strengthens the Triangle and Mercalis leadership teams," said Chris Apolito, Founding Partner of Triangle Insights Group. "For many years, both individuals have demonstrated excellence in their fields and are very highly respected in the world of life sciences consulting. I look forward to the many contributions they will make going forward." To learn more about Triangle Insights Group, please visit https://triangleinsightsgroup.com/. About Triangle Insights Group Triangle Insights Group by Mercalis is a premier strategy consulting firm providing guidance on critical business issues to life science industry leaders. The firm's approach combines deep industry knowledge with strong analytical rigor to drive strategic decision-making across client domains. Triangle's expertise encompasses key therapeutic areas (oncology, CNS, cell, and gene therapy) and relevant industry disciplines (pricing and market access, new product planning, and commercial strategy). For more information, visit www.triangleinsightsgroup.com. About Mercalis Mercalis is an integrated life sciences commercialization partner that provides comprehensive solutions that span the entire healthcare value chain. The company partners closely with its clients to deliver an end-to-end spectrum of commercial capabilities that work together seamlessly and flexibly. Backed by proven industry expertise and results-driven technology, Mercalis provides the data and strategic insights, patient support services, and healthcare provider engagement tools to help life sciences companies successfully commercialize new products. Above all, Mercalis helps navigate the complex life sciences marketplace to accelerate value and enhance patient lives. Founded in 2000, Mercalis provides commercialization solutions to more than 500 life sciences customers and has provided access and affordability support to millions of patients. The company is headquartered in Morrisville, North Carolina. For more information about Mercalis, please visit www.mercalis.com. Contact: Landy Townsend VP, Marketing & Communications Mercalis [email protected] SOURCE Mercalis SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Attorneys for a 13-year-old Plaintiff have filed a class action lawsuit against social media conglomerate Meta Platforms, alleging its products Facebook and Instagram deliberately entice minors into a "harmful obsession" with social media. Meta is further accused of employing a business model scheme to purposely mislead the public and hide the harm posed to young users by its affiliated products. Filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California where Meta has a "significant office presence" the class action lawsuit requests over $5 billion in compensatory and injunctive relief for the Plaintiff and affected class members. "Supplying harmful products to children is unlawful in every jurisdiction in this country, under both state and federal law and basic principles of products liability. And yet, that is what Meta does every hour of every day of every year," the complaint reads. Among the many allegations lodged in the complaint, Meta is accused of specifically targeting young users as a core part of its business strategy. Citing an internal email from a Meta product designer which summarized, "the [sic] young ones are the best ones," Defendants are accused of carefully tracking young user engagement and weighing young user impact with any "substantive changes" to product design. The complaint scrutinizes Meta's development and implementation of addictive young user features, such as engagement-based newsfeeds (as opposed to chronological), interactive features ("Likes," "Live," and "Reels"), suggestions, content suppression, and "recommendation algorithms," alleged to rely upon a psychological phenomenon known as variable reinforcement schedules. Through variable reinforcement or reward schedules, "the unpredictable pattern of posts triggers a rush of dopamine, a neurotransmitter known as the "pleasure chemical," in anticipation of social media content and stimuli." From the complaint, "As this happens over and over, every day, the dopamine levels and balance in young user's brains are becoming significantly altered by Meta's recommendation algorithms." This strategic product deployment is alleged to ultimately culminate in user addiction, with young users falling most susceptible. The complaint contends Meta is well aware of these effects, having studied and "purposefully designed" their platforms to exploit these dopamine releases. Meta is further accused of carefully studying the user habits of minors under 13 years of age. The Plaintiff has allegedly used Instagram since she was only ten years old, as Meta "never verified her age." As a result of daily usage, attorneys for the Plaintiff claim she has been subjected to violent and gory content, body insecurities, compulsive user tendencies, and negative effects on her emotions, relationships, and even education. "Research shows that young people's use of Meta's products is associated with depression, anxiety, insomnia, interference with education and daily life, and other negative outcomes. Indeed, Meta's own internal research demonstrates that use of Instagram results in such harms, and yet it has done nothing to lessen those harms and has failed to issue any meaningful warnings about its products or limit youth access." Beyond employed marketing strategies and failure to warn, attorneys for the Plaintiff and class contend Meta has violated the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act ("COPPA") by collecting young users' personal information. Included among the nineteen alleged counts are strict liability (design defect, failure to warn), negligence, deceptive and unfair trade practices, unjust enrichment, and consumer fraud. Class members vary by count(s) and include minors who use or have used Instagram during the class period, pursuant to state jurisdiction. A jury trial has been requested, in addition to explicit changes to Defendants' practices and the order to, "disgorge [Defendants] of all revenues and profits wrongfully obtained." The plaintiff and class are represented by Boies Schiller Flexner LLP ("BSF") attorneys David Boies, Sigrid S. McCawley, Jenny Kim, and Joshua M. Stein, Labaton Keller Sucharow LLP ("Labaton") attorney Michael P. Canty, and Milberg Coleman Bryson Phillips Grossman, PLLC ("Milberg") attorneys Gary M. Klinger and Alexandra M. Honeycutt. BSF Managing Partner, Sigrid S. McCawley commented, "For too long Meta has turned a blind eye to the harm it is causing kids with its addictive social media practices that place profits over the emotional and physical well-being of our young. We have filed this class action litigation on behalf of the harmed to force Meta to take real action to protect kids and become part of the solution to fix this very serious problem." "Milberg is proud to join the fight against Meta to protect children from social media addiction and depression," said Gary Klinger, Senior Partner with Milberg. Labaton Partner Michael Canty shared similar sentiments. "It is important that we hold companies like Meta accountable for the impact their algorithms and marketing strategies have on young children. Labaton is proud to be working to promote children's online well-being and safety." Following Meta's takeover in 2012, more than 50 percent of teenagers in the United States use Instagram, with over 22 million U.S. teens logging on each day. About Milberg Coleman Bryson Phillips Grossman, PLLC: For over 50 years, Milberg and its affiliates have been fighting to protect victims' rights and have recovered over $50 billion for clients. A pioneer in class action litigation, Milberg is widely recognized as a leader in defending the rights of victims of corporate wrongdoing. Media Contact: Karine Lim [email protected] SOURCE Milberg Coleman Bryson Phillips Grossman PLLC Join the demonstration with Samsung and MemVerge to accelerate next-generation computing SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- MSI, a leading global server provider, is showcasing its new CXL (Compute Express Link)-based server platform powered by 4th Gen AMD EPYC processors at The Future of Memory and Storage 2024, at the Samsung booth (#407) and Memverge booth (#1251) in the Santa Clara Convention Center from August 6-8. The CXL memory expansion server is designed to enhance In-Memory Database, Electronic Design Automation (EDA), and High Performance Computing (HPC) application performance. MSI S2301 CXL Memory Expansion Server Boosts Application Performance with Support for CXL 2.0 Memory Expansion MemVerge Memory Machine Showing the System Topology and Telemetry of the MSI S2301 with Samsung CXL Memory Modules and DRAM "By adopting innovative CXL technology to expand memory capacity and bandwidth, MSI's CXL memory expansion server integrates cutting-edge technology from AMD EPYC processors, CXL memory devices, and advanced management software," said Danny Hsu, General Manager of Enterprise Platform Solutions. "In collaboration with key players in the CXL ecosystem, including AMD, Samsung, and MemVerge, MSI and its partners are driving CXL technology to meet the demands of high-performance data center computing." New CXL Memory Expansion Server Redefines High-Performance Computing CXL Memory Expansion is a cutting-edge technology designed to enhance both the bandwidth and capacity of system memory in modern computing environments. The CXL 2.0 standard introduces a high-performance memory access mechanism that allows expansion devices to directly interface with the CPU's memory hierarchy, treating the additional memory modules as if they were part of the system's native memory. By connecting CXL Memory Expansion devices to the system, organizations can scale up their memory resources efficiently, achieving both greater memory capacity and improved data throughput for high-performance computing tasks. The newly announced MSI S2301 server is ready for select 5th Gen AMD EPYC CPUs and significantly boosts application performance through its support for CXL 2.0 Memory Expansion. By integrating CXL 2.0 over PCIe 5.0 x8 links in an E3.S-2T form factor, the S2301 server allows users to seamlessly add CXL-compliant memory expansion devices, effectively extending the server's memory resources beyond the limitations of traditional DRAM configurations. This capability enhances application performance in several ways: it increases the total amount of accessible system memory, high-performance computing tasks, and it improves memory bandwidth through direct, coherent access between the CPU and the additional memory modules. The high-speed CXL 2.0 interface enables rapid data transfer and low-latency communication between the server's core components and the expansion memory, ensuring that applications can handle larger datasets and more simultaneous processes without performance bottlenecks. CXL Innovative Ecosystem Samsung's introduction of the 256GB CXL memory modules based on CXL 2.0 is expected to accelerate the commercialization of next-generation memory solutions. "Samsung welcomes the collaboration with MSI and AMD that will create a robust ecosystem for the CXL market and optimize the performance of our CXL 2.0 256GB CMM-D. The new CXL DRAM solution is expected to handle various workloads in MSI's S2301 system," said Jangseok Choi, vice president of the Memory New Business Planning Team at Samsung Electronics. "Samsung, MSI and AMD look forward to the momentum in innovation enabled through next-generation enterprise servers and data centers." Memory Machine X software from MemVerge optimizes the cost and performance of AI and other memory-intensive workloads by intelligently managing tiers of memory. The software tells you if adding CXL memory is appropriate for your application environment and uses bandwidth or latency QoS policies to automatically place your data in the right memory tier for optimum performance. According to Charles Fan, CEO and Co-founder of MemVerge, "The availability of servers with qualified CXL peripherals and software is a breakthrough for the industry. It marks the beginning of the industry's ability to satisfy pent-up demand from IT organizations ready to evaluate the added memory capacity and bandwidth expected from CXL." The joint demonstration showcases the next-generation CXL interface, which allows for significant expansion of both total system memory capacity and bandwidth via the addition of CXL Memory Expansion devices. With its expandable bandwidth and capacity when used with main DRAM, the technology's advancement is expected to significantly impact the next-generation computing market. SOURCE MSI AURORA, Colo., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Starting August 13, Asian Health Coalition in Colorado and Network of the National Library of Medicine will host the All of Us Journey, a traveling educational exhibit that brings the National Institutes of Health's All of Us Research Program to communities across the United States. The Journey features interactive activities, videos, games, quizzes, and moreall designed to demonstrate the power of participation in health research. Interested attendees will learn how they can help shape the future of health for themselves, their families, and their communities for generations to come. Attendees will also have the opportunity to register for the All of Us Research Program during their visit. WHAT: Aurora is one stop on the All of Us Journey's national tour. The public are invited to attend and learn how they can help change the future of health as participants in the All of Us Research Program. WHEN and WHERE: Tuesday, August 13 to Saturday, August 17, 2024 10am-4pm H Mart 2751 S Parker Rd. Aurora, CO 80014 Tuesday, August 20 to Friday, August 23, 2024 10am-4pm Laramie County Library 2200 Pioneer Avenue Cheyenne, WY 82001 See the full list of events in Colorado and Wyoming from July 16 to August 23 here. The All of Us Research Program, led by the National Institutes of Health, aims to recruit at least one million participants that reflect the diversity of the United States. All of Us will help researchers understand more about why people get sick or stay healthy. To learn more about the All of Us Research Program and upcoming events, visit https://www.joinallofus.org/drive . About the All of Us Journey All of Us is a registered service mark of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). The Journey is managed by Montage Marketing Group in collaboration with Scripps Research Translational Institute, and funded by the National Institutes of Health award OT2OD035580 . For more information contact: Jennifer Reyes, Outreach Engagement Manager Phone: 703-454-9168 ext: 144 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Montage Marketing Group WASHINGTON, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Following is a statement from Emily Wilkins, president of the National Press Club on the murder of veteran crime reporter Alejandro Martinez Noguez in Mexico Aug. 4. "The killing of Alejandro Martinez Noguez is a tragedy for his family, his colleagues and his county. WE mourn his loss. A veteran crime reporter on the most dangerous beat in Mexico, Martinez has been under government protection since his life was threatened in 2022. On Sunday he was riding in a car with armed agents when he was shot and killed by gunman in a passing car. The agents were wounded in the assault. It is vital for the profession that his killers be found, tried and sentenced. Sadly this is seldom the case for murders of journalists in Mexico. Martinez was killed in Guanajuato a region marked by violent clashes between cartels. "Mexico's government protection program is cited in asylum cases by the U.S. Government as a reason to deport Mexican journalists, who, the government argues in court, will be protected by Mexico. Sadly this program has proven over the years to be fatally ineffective. The Department of Homeland Security tried unsuccessfully to use this argument to deport journalist Emilio Gutierrez Soto in a case the National Press Club helped fight in court. The Immigration judge accepted the government's argument but was overturned by the U.S. Bureau of Immigration Appeals. Gutierrez Soto was granted asylum earlier this year in a landmark case that lasted 15 years. "Martinez death follows that of journalist Victor Morales who was killed in Chiapas state June 28. There have been no arrests in Morales case." Founded in 1908, the National Press Club is the world's leading professional organization for journalists. With 3,000 members representing nearly every major news organization, the Club is a leading voice for press freedom in the U.S. and worldwide. Contact: Bill McCarren, 202-662-7534 for the National Press Club SOURCE National Press Club Hungarian operator group 4iGs chairman met with North Macedonias Deputy Prime Minster to explore the possibility of launching its operations in the country. In a statement, 4iG said it would launch mobile and fixed services in the country as part of its strategy to expand in the Western Balkans. Aleksandar Nikoloski, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport of North Macedonia, said 4iG has an established track record and a potential launch of its services promises substantial benefits for the citizens and the operator. 4iG chairman Gellert Jaszai said: We are eager to contribute to the North Macedonian telecommunications sector and drive positive change through technology. To outline our ambition to enter the North Macedonian telecommunications market, in the next few weeks we will start working with the government to formalise our commitment and detail this relationship further. 4iG is Hungarys second largest operator and expanded into the Western Balkans telecoms market through Montenegro and Albania, launching its One brand in those countries. The Hungarian operator noted its recent announcement of the construction of a high-capacity submarine data cable with Telecom Egypt to link Egypt and Albania, could bring benefits to North Macedonia. SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Netskope , a leader in secure access service edge (SASE), today announced that it has been named one of the top cloud innovators in the Forbes Cloud 100 for the eighth consecutive year. Published by Forbes, in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures , the Forbes Cloud 100 list is the definitive ranking of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world. Netskope is repeatedly recognized by customers, analysts, and industry bellwethers as one of the world's most important security and networking and cloud providers. In the 2024 Forbes Cloud 100, Netskope is ranked #15 overall, among the top ranked security and networking companies. Hybrid work preferences have driven record adoption of software as a service (SaaS) and cloud applications in business, but the associated surge in security threats, increased use of artificial intelligence (AI), and challenges preserving network performance have stressed legacy technology architecture to the point of ineffectiveness. As a result, organizations now seek cloud-native, simple, and scalable solutions, such as SASE and Security Service Edge (SSE), that can stop threats, prevent unauthorized access to apps and data, and guarantee network performance. Gartner estimates the SASE market will reach over $25 billion by 2027, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 29%1. Netskope is outpacing that growth rate as organizations increasingly adopt Netskope One SASE platform capabilities to operate safely, securely and optimally in the cloud. The world's top technology analysts, including Gartner , IDC and Forrester , continuously validate Netskope as a leader in SASE, SSE and zero trust, helping organizations address their most critical cloud, SaaS, web, and private application security needs as well as their most persistent network performance challenges, all at once. "We built Netskope to reinvent the entire enterprise strategy for protecting critical data from threats and ensure the safe adoption and usage of cloud, SaaS, web, and private applicationsall while optimizing performance," said Sanjay Beri, co-founder and CEO of Netskope. "With hybrid work environments, AI, and other future-state needs, enterprises seek cloud-native security and networking solutions that offer simplicity, scale, and performance from a single, modern SASE platform. We're honored to once again be recognized by the Forbes Cloud 100, and are proud of the wide-ranging industry recognition that further underscores our innovation and commitment to our customers." This latest Forbes Cloud 100 ranking follows a series of Netskope milestones over the past year, further solidifying Netskope's place among the top technology companies shaping the way enterprises are modernizing their technology. Over the past 12 months, Netskope has achieved: For the ninth consecutive year, the Cloud 100 reviews submissions from hundreds of cloud startups and private companies each year. The Cloud 100 evaluation process involved ranking companies across four factors: market leadership, estimated valuation, operating metrics, and people & culture. For market leadership, the Cloud 100 enlists the help of a judging panel of public cloud company CEOs who assist in evaluating and ranking their private company peers. "For nine years, the Forbes Cloud 100 list has recognized the leading private cloud companies in the world, from AI to work software, infrastructure to security," said Alex Konrad, the Forbes editor of the Cloud 100. "This year's list is the strongest group of standouts yet, with revenue, valuations and growth that will eventually make for historic IPOs." The Forbes 2024 Cloud 100 is published online at www.forbes.com/cloud100 . Highlights of the list will appear in the August/September 2024 issue of Forbes magazine. To learn more about Netskope visit: www.netskope.com , and follow Netskope on LinkedIn , Instagram , and X (formerly Twitter) . Gartner Disclaimer Gartner, Forecast Analysis: Secure Access Service Edge, Worldwide, Nat Smith, Neil MacDonald, et al, 10 October 2023. Gartner, Magic Quadrant for Security Service Edge, Charlie Winckless, Thomas Lintemuth, Dale Koeppen, 15 April 2024. Gartner, Magic Quadrant for Single-Vendor SASE, Andrew Lerner, Neil MacDonald, Jonathan Forest, Charlie Winckless, 3 July 2024. GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally, Magic Quadrant is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's Research & Advisory organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. About Netskope Netskope, a global SASE leader, helps organizations apply zero trust principles and AI/ML innovations to protect data and defend against cyber threats. Fast and easy to use, the Netskope One platform and its patented Zero Trust Engine provide optimized access and real-time security for people, devices, and data anywhere they go. Thousands of customers trust Netskope and its powerful NewEdge network to reduce risk and gain unrivaled visibility into any cloud, web, and private application activityproviding security and accelerating performance without trade-offs. Learn more at netskope.com. Media Contact: [email protected] 1 Gartner Research: Forecast Analysis: Secure Access Service Edge, Worldwide, Nat Smith, Neil MacDonald, et al, 10 October 2023. SOURCE Netskope NEW YORK and MIAMI, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Parkinson's Foundation today announced the recipients of more than $1 million in community grants for Parkinson's disease (PD) programs across the United States. The programs funded by the Foundation will benefit people living with PD in 40 states. The Foundation invests in community programs that make an impact in local communities and help people live better with PD by providing support for health, wellness and educational needs. "Community grants help people with PD live better lives, today," said Parkinson's Foundation President and CEO John L. Lehr. "These investments reflect the Foundation's continued commitment to meeting unmet needs in the Parkinson's community." Community grants range from a minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of $25,000 per organization. The Community Grant program utilizes peer reviewers from the Parkinson's community to determine which of the many impactful programs should be selected for funding each year. The peer review committee includes people living with Parkinson's, those who are care partners of someone living with Parkinson's, and healthcare professionals who serve the Parkinson's community. "Being a grant reviewer was a reminder of how many people in cities and towns all over the country are working hard to improve the lives of those of us with Parkinson's disease and our care partners," said Esther Labib-Kiyarash, a person living with Parkinson's and member of the 2024 Community Grant Review Committee. "Sometimes it's easy to lose hope, but the really creative and impactful programs that the Parkinson's Foundation is funding gives me so much hope for the future. These programs truly make it possible for people to live better lives with this disease." The 2024 grant cycle funds programs that educate and deliver exercise, reach those who are PD care partners and address mental health needs of people with PD. Selected organizations operate locally and demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. The funding period occurs from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. "The Community Grant we received from the Parkinson's Foundation will enable us to significantly enhance our rehab programming, providing much-needed support and resources to individuals living with Parkinson's disease," said Dr. Erika Jackson, PT, DPT, the co-founder and CEO of Supreme Physical Therapy and Wellness Rehabilitation Center LLC in Houston. "This funding will help us improve the quality of life for our participants, offering them specialized care and rehabilitation services tailored to their unique needs." Since 2011, the Foundation has invested more than $11.5 million in 879 community-based programs. To see the full list of the 2024 community grant recipients, visit Parkinson.org/CommunityGrants. About the Parkinson's Foundation The Parkinson's Foundation makes life better for people with Parkinson's disease by improving care and advancing research toward a cure. In everything we do, we build on the energy, experience and passion of our global Parkinson's community. Since 1957, the Parkinson's Foundation has invested more than $449 million in Parkinson's research and clinical care. Connect with us on Parkinson.org, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or call 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636). About Parkinson's Disease Affecting an estimated one million Americans, Parkinson's disease is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's and is the 14th-leading cause of death in the U.S. It is associated with a progressive loss of motor control (e.g., shaking or tremor at rest and lack of facial expression), as well as non-motor symptoms (e.g., depression and anxiety). There is no cure for Parkinson's and nearly 90,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in the U.S. MEDIA CONTACT: Melissa Nobles Gonzalez Parkinson's Foundation [email protected] 305-537-9134 Parkinson.org SOURCE Parkinson's Foundation The brand-new, nearly 400,000 square-foot facility in Smyrna will elevate the employee and customer experience while supporting economic growth in local Tennessee community PURCHASE, N.Y., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA) celebrated the grand opening of a new warehouse and distribution center in Smyrna, Tennessee now the company's largest in the Southeast and second largest in the country. PepsiCo Beverages North America hosts a grand opening for its new state-of-the-art distribution facility the companys largest in the Southeast in Smyrna, Tenn. on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. (Photo by John Amis / PepsiCo Beverages North America / AP Images) Local community and business leaders join a tour of PepsiCo Beverages North Americas new state-of-the-art distribution facility the companys largest in the Southeast in Smyrna, Tenn. on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. (Photo by John Amis / PepsiCo Beverages North America / AP Images) Local community and business leaders including Heather Hoytink, South Division President, PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA); Mary Esther Reed, Mayor of Smyrna; Ram Krishnan, CEO, PBNA and Tennessee State Senator Shane Reeves gather at the ceremonial ribbon-cutting for PBNAs new state-of-the-art distribution facility the companys largest in the Southeast in Smyrna, Tenn. on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. (Photo by John Amis / PepsiCo Beverages North America / AP Images) Reinforcing the company's commitment to the Greater Nashville business community, PBNA tripled its local warehouse footprint with the relocation of its former downtown Nashville distribution warehouse facility to a nearly 400,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art location in Smyrna. The new Smyrna warehouse is equipped with modern amenities such as open office spaces, enhanced safety technology and a climate-controlled warehouse, allowing PBNA to elevate the employee and customer experience and drive continued growth across Middle Tennessee. The new LEED Silver certified facility also features new sustainability improvements such as all-electric warehousing equipment as part of the company's pep+ ambition to drive positive action for people and the planet. "We are thrilled to expand into Smyrna as our business continues to grow in the Greater Nashville region. With our rich history in the state of Tennessee, we're so proud to invest in this growing community and support its world-class hospitality scene, vibrant culture, and strong business footprint," said Heather Hoytink, President of PBNA South Division. "Today, we are celebrating our storied history in this great state and beginning our new chapter in Smyrna for many years to come." The expansion in Smyrna enables PBNA to meet customer demands more efficiently, positioning the company for continued success in the growing Greater Nashville area including in Rutherford County, the fastest growing county in Tennessee for the last 8 years1. The facility has the capacity to distribute 20 million cases of PepsiCo beverages annually, including Pepsi, Mountain Dew, bubly, Gatorade, and Rockstar, serving 14 counties in the Nashville metropolitan area. The grand opening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new facility, which brought together dozens of PBNA employees with Tennessee State Senator Shane Reeves and Mayor Mary Esther Reed of Smyrna among other community partners. "Our partners at PepsiCo have always played a major role in giving back to our Greater Tennessee community, from providing countless employment opportunities over the years to their ongoing sustainability commitments. We're thankful for their continued investment in our great state and look forward to what's to come with this new facility," said Tennessee State Senator Shane Reeves. "Our town is welcoming this new facility with open arms and cannot wait to see its direct impact here in Smyrna as it opens new doors from new job openings to an amplified customer experience, there's so much for our local residents to look forward to," added Mayor Mary Esther Reed of Smyrna. The new facility is located at 2020 Midway Lane in Smyrna, TN. For more information about job opportunities in Smyrna, visit www.pepsicojobs.com. About PepsiCo PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $91 billion in net revenue in 2023, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo's product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales. Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the center of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for planet and people. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com, and follow on X (Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCo. Media Contacts Molly Kunst, [email protected] Elizabeth Weir, [email protected] 1: Source SOURCE PepsiCo HONG KONG and SHANGHAI, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. ("Ping An", the "Company" or the "Group", HKEX: 2318 / 82318; SSE: 601318) is 53rd on the Fortune 500 list for 2024. With revenue of USD14.58 billion, the Group ranked 9th among global financial enterprises and 5th among Chinese financial enterprises. A total of 133 Chinese companies are on this year's list, with combined revenue of approximately US$11 trillion in 2023 and an average US$83 billion in sales. This is the 15th consecutive year Ping An has been included in the Fortune Global 500 list. The company maintains a commitment to high-quality business development to support national strategies including "Digital China" and "Healthy China", by leveraging digital operations to enhance the quality and efficiency of its financial services. It continues to develop technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, pension finance, and digital finance. An integrated finance strategy for a "worry-free, time-saving and money-saving" experience for customers In 2023, Ping An achieved operating profit attributable to shareholders of the parent company of RMB117.99 billion, with total assets exceeding RMB11.58 trillion. The Group's three core businesses life and health insurance, property and casualty insurance, and banking remained stable, with a combined operating profit attributable to shareholders of the parent company of RMB140.91 billion. The company provided nearly 232 million retail customers nationwide with a "worry-free, time-saving, and money-saving" financial service experience in 2023, growing its retail customer base by 2.2% year-on-year (YoY). Deepening its technology-driven "integrated finance + healthcare and senior care" strategy, Ping An drives retail cross-selling, with 22.42 million customer migrations within the Group in 2023. More than a quarter of all retail customers, 25.3%, held four or more contracts within the Group, with a 97.7% retention rate. Benefits include declining customer acquisition expenses, economies of scale in terms of service costs, more contracts per customer, and higher customer retention. Reform and innovation for stable core businesses growth The transformation of Ping An's life and health insurance businesses are showing positive results. The life insurance business has resumed an upward trend. In 2023, the new business value (NBV) in life and health insurance increased by 36.2% YoY on a comparable basis, and the NBV through agents increased by 40.3%. Ping An P&C achieved insurance revenue of RMB313.46 billion, a YoY increase of 6.5%. Ping An Bank achieved a net profit of RMB46.46 billion, representing a YoY increase of 2.1%, and the retail deposit balance reached RMB1.21 trillion, an increase of 16.7% from the beginning of 2023. Healthcare and senior care ecosystem for a second growth curve, empowering core businesses Ping An's healthcare and senior care ecosystem is empowering its core financial businesses through differentiated "Product + Service" offerings. Ping An partnered with all top 100 hospitals and 3A hospitals in China in 2023, and accumulated about 50,000 in-house doctors and contracted external doctors. Ping An also partnered with approximately 230,000 pharmacies by the end of 2023, up by nearly 6,000 from the beginning of the year. Customers entitled to service benefits in the healthcare and senior care ecosystem accounted for over 73% of Ping An Life's NBV in 2023. Nearly 64% of Ping An's 232 million retail customers used services from the healthcare and senior care ecosystem in 2023. Retail customers who used services from the ecosystem held approximately 3.37 contracts with Ping An and RMB55,900 in assets under management (AUM) per capita. That is 1.6 times the number of contracts and 3.5 times the AUM held by non-users of these services. A "people-centered" approach and corporate social responsibility for society As of the end of 2023, Ping An cumulatively invested over RMB8.77 trillion to bolster the real economy. Green investment of insurance funds and the loan balance totaled RMB128.57 billion and RMB146.35 billion respectively as of December 31, 2023. Green insurance premium income amounted to RMB37.30 billion in 2023. Since the launch of the Ping An Rural Communities Support programs in 2018, Ping An has provided RMB117.88 billion for poverty alleviation and industrial vitalization. Ping An maintains a vision and mission of meeting people's aspiration for a better life and contributing to China's health and prosperity. The company will continue to follow a high-quality, people-centered development path with Chinese characteristics. Ping An will give full play to its advantages in finance, healthcare, and technology, support the development of the real economy, fulfill its corporate social responsibilities, and strive to maximize value for customers, shareholders, employees and society. About Ping An Group Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (HKEx:2318 / 82318; SSE:601318) is one of the largest financial services companies in the world. It strives to become a world-leading provider of integrated finance, health and senior care services, Under the technology-driven "integrated finance + health and senior care" strategy, the Group provides professional "financial advisory, family doctor, and senior care concierge" services to its 234 million retail customers. Ping An advances intelligent digital transformation and employs technologies to improve financial businesses' quality and efficiency and enhance risk management. The Group is listed on the stock exchanges in Hong Kong and Shanghai. As of the end of 2023, Ping An had RMB11,583,417 million in total assets. The Group ranked 29th in the Forbes Global 2000 list in 2024 and 53rd in the Fortune Global 500 list in 2024. For more information, please visit www.group.pingan.com and follow us on LinkedIn - PING AN. SOURCE Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. Julie Herrera and Idea Auto Group have acquired South Austin Nissan; Bravo Auto has acquired Baytown Nissan, while Mike Terry and Jarryd Carver have acquired Hyundai of Silsbee. SOUTHLAKE, Texas, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Pinnacle Mergers & Acquisitions, a nationwide auto dealership brokerage firm, has recently completed three successful transactions in the Texas automotive market: South Austin Nissan and Baytown Nissan, both owned by Central Automotive Group and Hyundai of Silsbee owned by Dale Early. The latest transactions mark over 200 dealerships in Texas sold by Pinnacle. South Austin Nissan was acquired by Julie Herrera, expanding IDEA Auto Group in her solo venture, and will now operate under City Limits Nissan. Herrera started IDEA Auto Group in 2022, spinning off from the Cavender Auto Family and naming her company using the letters representing her vision of inclusion, diversity, and equity in automotive. This year, IDEA Auto debuted on Automotive News' list of the top 150 dealership groups in the U.S., ranking No. 126, with 8,380 new vehicles sold in 2023. Bravo Auto Group, owned by Raymond Palacios, purchased Baytown Nissan, which will operate under the same name. Palacios is originally from Houston, and this marks Bravo's first store in the Houston market. Bravo has five other stores in Victoria, El Paso, and Las Cruces, New Mexico. Mike Sims, president of Pinnacle Mergers and Acquisitions, brokered the transaction. Mike Terry and Jarryd Carver acquired Hyundai of Silsbee through their new partnership E1T1 Auto Group. This marks Terry's fifth Texas store and third brand since becoming a dealer in 2019. The store will operate as Mike Terry Hyundai and is the first newly formed partnership store. Carver currently operates three stores in Virginia. Wes Hamilton, executive vice president of Pinnacle Mergers and Acquisitions, brokered the transaction. "With the ever-changing landscape of the automotive business, we continue to see a strong market for dealership acquisitions in top markets across the country," Sims said. "Our team's extensive industry experience and relationships continue to deliver above-market results for our clients." With over 60 years of combined experience as intermediaries on both the buy-side and sell-side of transactions, Pinnacle remains dedicated to integrity and customer success, a commitment that has guided them for the past three decades. Leveraging their unparalleled industry knowledge, the Pinnacle team continues to excel as intermediaries, always willing to help their clients achieve their goals as buyers or sellers. To learn more about the services offered by Pinnacle Mergers & Acquisitions or to receive a confidential consultation, visit www.pinnaclemergers.com . Media Contact: Nikki Jones, [email protected] SOURCE Pinnacle Mergers & Acquisitions SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Schubert Jonckheer & Kolbe LLP is investigating a data breach impacting the private information of 2.2 customers of Rite Aid Corporation, a Pennsylvania-based pharmacy chain. On or about July 12, 2024, Rite Aid confirmed that a third party impersonated a company employee, compromised their business credentials, and gained access to certain systems. The third party then gained access to data associated with the purchase of specific retail products. Although Rite Aid has yet to reveal who was behind the data breach, the RansomHub cybercrime group claimed credit for the breach, saying they stole customer data from the company's systems. RansomHub claims it obtained over 19 gigabytes of customer information, including 45 million lines of their personal information. Rite Aid reportedly refused to pay the ransom. Rite Aid recently informed customers that the following private information may have been stolen in the breach: names, addresses, dates of birth, and driver's license numbers or other government-issued IDs presented between June 6, 2017 and July 30, 2018. If your private information was impacted by this incident, you may be at risk of identity theft, financial fraud, and other serious violations of your privacy. As a result, you may be entitled to money damages and an injunction requiring changes to Rite Aid's cybersecurity practices. If you received notification of this data breach or were a Rite Aid customer between June 6, 2017 and July 30, 2018 and wish to obtain additional information about your legal rights, please contact us today or visit our website at https://www.classactionlawyers.com/riteaid. About Schubert Jonckheer & Kolbe LLP Schubert Jonckheer & Kolbe represents shareholders, employees, and consumers in class actions against corporate defendants, as well as shareholders in derivative actions against their officers and directors. The firm is based in San Francisco, and with the help of co-counsel, litigates cases nationwide. Contact Amber L. Schubert Schubert Jonckheer & Kolbe LLP [email protected] Tel: 415-788-4220 SOURCE Schubert Jonckheer & Kolbe LLP NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Repool, a tech-based hedge fund launch and administration solution continues to disrupt the fund services space with the hire of two seasoned fund admin executives, Scott Ulrich and Ryan Rossi, and the launch of the industry's first digital subscription platform, Warp. Scott Ulrich joins Repool as its new Managing Director of Fund Administration, bringing 30 years of experience. joins Repool as its new Managing Director of Fund Administration, bringing 30 years of experience. Ryan Rossi joins Repool as Senior Director of Fund Accounting, bringing 15 years of experience. joins Repool as Senior Director of Fund Accounting, bringing 15 years of experience. Industry-first digital subscription platform, Warp, is officially launched by Repool. Warp reduces subscription errors by up to 80% and can triple subscription velocity. Experienced executive hires to expand fund administration capabilities "We're delighted to bring Scott and Ryan on to the team. Their decision to join us is a strong vote of confidence for our innovative approach to technology-driven fund services," said Repool founder and CEO, Kevin Fu. Ulrich brings over 30 years of fund administration experience to Repool, having previously held key leadership positions at Northern Trust, where he was most recently the Chief Business Officer of Global Fund Services, Americans, and at State Street, where he spent 20 years across a variety of senior roles in fund servicing. Ulrich has deep experience working with some of the world's largest and most complex fund managers. He will play a critical role in leading the company's operational excellence, strategic partnerships, and business development strategy. Rossi brings nearly 15 years of experience in fund accounting, having begun his career at PWC, followed by nearly a decade at SS&C, before joining Northern Trust as a VP. He has served as the primary accounting lead for a wide variety of mid and large-sized advisors and private funds in the hedge fund space and has also worked on private equity funds. Rossi will help Repool further its fund administration capabilities and coverage while serving as the lead accounting contact for key strategic clients. New investor experience platform that simplifies investor onboarding Repool officially unveils its industry-first digital subscription platform, Warp. Unlike other digitized subscription workflows that simply embed Docusign templates, Warp abstracts away complex physical subscription documents and replaces them with a Turbotax-like experience that can be customized to any private fund not just hedge funds. Warp reduces industry-average subscription error rates by over 80% and increases subscription velocity two or three-fold, providing a superior experience to investors while reducing administrative complexity for fund managers and their administrators. "Warp can be used in conjunction with Repool's fund administration services, but it can also be easily layered right on top of existing fund admins for funds that don't want to switch," says Fu. "No other solution can match Warp in reduced error rates and enhanced speed." For additional information About Repool Repool provides modern fund administration, software, and end-to-end fund launch solutions for hedge fund managers. Repool is backed by leading venture capital firms such as Y Combinator, Canaan, Matrix, and Global Founders Capital, as well as angels from Goldman Sachs, Barclays, and the founders of Plaid, Brex, Mercury, Flexport, and more. SOURCE Repool DALLAS, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Prepare for a riveting journey into the heart of Texas crime with the launch of "Texas Crime Stories," a new podcast that takes listeners from the crime scene to the courtroom to the cellblock. This true crime sensation is the result of a strategic partnership with Riggs Media. Celebrated Peabody Award-winning investigative journalist Robert Riggs is at the helm, bringing his storytelling expertise to reVolver's bilingual audience. "Texas Crime Stories" offers listeners a front-row seat to real-life cases through the perspectives of those most intimately involved: law enforcement investigators and prosecutors, offenders, reporters, and victims alike. Jack Hobbs, President of reVolver Podcasts, expressed his admiration for Riggs' unmatched storytelling prowess: "For years, I've witnessed Riggs in actionreporting fearlessly from the frontlines of war zones and exposing corruption in politics," Hobbs remarked. "His unparalleled access to a vast network of law enforcement sources empowers him to weave together true crime tales that stand apart, each one a gripping narrative born of his unique insight and unparalleled connections." Riggs' acclaimed career in broadcast journalism has earned him prestigious accolades, including top honors from the industry's most esteemed awards. Recently, his compelling work on "Freed To Kill," a five-part television documentary and podcast series exploring the sinister story of serial killer Kenneth McDuff, garnered both a coveted Webby and a Silver Telly. "Tales of true crime defy the imagination in the sprawling expanse of Texas, where the mythical shadows of oil, cowboys, and cattle loom as large as the state itself. The Texas Crime Stories podcast unfurls the grim tapestry of the most confounding and chilling crimes that have scarred the Lone Star State and the Southwestern United States," said Riggs. The podcast will also be available in Spanish under the name Texas Historias de Crimen, ensuring accessibility to a wider audience. Riggs' monumental impact in journalism is underscored by multiple prestigious awards, including three Alfred I. duPont Columbia University Journalism Awards for exemplary investigative reporting. His work spans interviewing notorious serial killers and U.S. Presidents, reporting from war zones in Iraq, and covering natural disasters, solidifying his reputation as a juggernaut in journalism. Before his journalism career, Riggs served as an investigator for legendary Texas Congressman Wright Patman, focusing on investigations linked to the Watergate and Pentagon bribery scandals. His Top Secret clearance and elite training positioned him at the confluence of policy and inquiry, shaping federal legislation like the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. An alumnus of Texas A&M University, Riggs was honored with the Outstanding Alumnus Award in 2001, recognizing his monumental contributions to journalism. This accolade exemplifies Riggs' eclectic brilliance, connecting his degree in Architecture and Construction to the intricate design of compelling narratives. Outside his investigative work, Riggs finds solace in the equestrian arts. A descendant of a long line of Texan horsemen, Riggs balances his high-octane professional life with the tranquility of horseback riding, embodying the frontier spirit of Texas. reVolver Podcasts is a leading force in digital audio content, dedicated to providing diverse, innovative, and engaging podcasts across various genres. With a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, reVolver Podcasts continues to shape the future of digital storytelling, with programming that is free to millions of listeners in the U.S. and around the world across Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, Deezer, iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, and available in the reVolver Podcasts App on Roku streaming devices and at www.revolverpodcasts.com. Listeners are invited to download the podcast in their preferred language: About reVolver Podcasts reVolver Podcasts is the leading multicultural, audio-on-demand content creator and distributor in the U.S. Home to Erazno y La Chokolata, El Show de Piolin, The Shoboy Show, Panda Show - Picante, and Don Cheto Al Aire, plus more than 70 additional programs spanning sports, music, finance, entertainment, lifestyle, health and wellness, inspiration, news, branded content, and live events, distributed across Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Deezer, Pandora, iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, also available in the reVolver Podcasts App on Roku streaming devices and at reVolverPodcasts.com. For more information about the company, visit www.revolverpodcasts.com. SOURCE reVolver Podcasts Leading Residential + Commercial Power Washing Franchise Strengthens Leadership Team with Renowned Industry Professional PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Rolling Suds, a leader in residential and commercial power washing for 30-plus years, announces the appointment of Madeleine Zook as Senior Vice President of Marketing. Zook's leadership will be instrumental in driving the company's strategic marketing initiatives, enhancing brand visibility, and expanding market reach. Franchise Veteran Madeleine Zook Appointed as Senior Vice President of Marketing of Rolling Suds Zook brings extensive expertise in the franchise industry as a multi-unit, multi-brand franchisee, franchisor, and supplier. In her most recent role, she served as the Interim Chief Marketing Officer at Premium Service Brands, overseeing a portfolio of nine brands and more than 1,300 territories. "I'm excited to join the Rolling Suds team and continue my journey within the franchise industry," said Zook. "With Rolling Suds' strong foundation and commitment to excellence, I see immense potential for implementing innovative marketing strategies. Together with the talented team at Rolling Suds, I am confident we will achieve remarkable success and set new standards in the industry." Not only does Zook bring years of experience in the industry, but she was recently recognized as one of USA Today's Top 10 CMOs to Watch in 2024. Her insights have also been featured in top publications such as Forbes, Entrepreneur, Fortune, and Inc. Additionally, her leadership in community engagement and knowledge-sharing is exemplified by her role in The Art of Franchise Marketing podcast series, which consistently ranks among the top podcasts globally. "We are thrilled to welcome Madeleine to the Rolling Suds family and look forward to achieving new milestones together," said Aaron Harper, Rolling Suds CEO and Owner. "Her proven track record and dynamic mindset align perfectly with our vision for the future. As we continue to lead the industry in power washing services, her expertise will be crucial in driving growth and reinforcing our brand's overall presence." Beyond her professional achievements, Zook is the founder of FranCareers, a recruiting firm for franchise executives, and FranCourse, a specialized learning hub for franchise professionals. She is also the main force behind Together She Can, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit centered around providing hygiene care to homeless communities. Rolling Suds is a proven business backed by more than 30-years of industry experience and knowledge. One of its key differentiators is the quality and process of the service itself, and ability to complete jobs two to three times more quickly. Rolling Suds has a proprietary cleaning process which utilizes high-quality materials and a specific dilution of soaps within their wash method. With state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained professionals, Rolling Suds is a sustainable business with the ability to invest back into itself. The Rolling Suds brand and franchise is built on three core elements relationships, reputation and reliability and each are applicable to both consumers and franchisees. Having unparalleled experience in such an unregulated industry, Rolling Suds franchisees will be able to differentiate themselves from competitors through a recession-resistant business model. The business support that franchisees receive is immense, including a nine-week interactive power launch training program, one week in person training, six months of lead generation, digital and marketing needs handled, technician training, among many other essential business aspects are provided. It's truly a complete business in a box. For more information on the Rolling Suds franchise opportunity, visit www.rollingsudsfranchise.com/franchise-opportunity or call 949-877-2948. ABOUT ROLLING SUDS: Rolling Suds is the premier franchise in power washing, bringing unparalleled standards to an unregulated industry. The company, founded more than 30 years ago, has helped more than 200,000 residential and commercial customers while building a great reputation by hiring the best people, using the best equipment, and providing the best experience in the industry. Anchored by years of unmatched results, Rolling Suds aims to make power washing one less thing to worry about for customers across the U.S. by expanding into new markets SOURCE Rolling Suds NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global shoulder-fired weapons market size is estimated to grow by USD 4.37 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 10.03% during the forecast period. Demand for new generation anti-armor and anti-aircraft protection is driving market growth, with a trend towards development of recoilless artillery. However, evolving global crisis affecting market prospects poses a challenge. Key market players include AirTronic USA LLC, BAE Systems Plc, Bharat Dynamics Ltd., NORINCOGROUP.com Inc., General Dynamics Corp., KBP Instrument Design Bureau, KONSTRUKTORSKOYE BYURO MASHYNOSTROYENIYA, LIG Nex1Co. Ltd, Lockheed Martin Corp., Machinery and Chemical Industry Inc., MBDA, Nammo AS, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd., RTX Corp., Rheinmetall AG, Roketsan AS, Saab AB, SIATT, and Thales Group. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global shoulder-fired weapons market 2024-2028 Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies - Click for the snapshot of this report Forecast period 2024-2028 Base Year 2023 Historic Data 2018 - 2022 Segment Covered Technology (Unguided and Guided), Product (Ammunition and Launcher), and Geography (North America, APAC, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America) Region Covered North America, APAC, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America Key companies profiled AirTronic USA LLC, BAE Systems Plc, Bharat Dynamics Ltd., NORINCOGROUP.com Inc., General Dynamics Corp., KBP Instrument Design Bureau, KONSTRUKTORSKOYE BYURO MASHYNOSTROYENIYA, LIG Nex1Co. Ltd, Lockheed Martin Corp., Machinery and Chemical Industry Inc., MBDA, Nammo AS, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd., RTX Corp., Rheinmetall AG, Roketsan AS, Saab AB, SIATT, and Thales Group Key Market Trends Fueling Growth The recoilless artillery market is driven by the use of lightweight, low-cost, and flexible weapons like the Carl-Gustaf recoilless rifle. This 84-mm man-portable reusable anti-tank weapon, produced by Saab, eliminates the need for heavy recoil-counteracting equipment due to its unique design. The weapon's wide range of ammunition makes it suitable for various roles, making it a crucial asset for land forces. In December 2021, Estonia received the first shipment of 300 Carl-Gustaf M4 weapons ordered from Saab. Such orders for recoilless weapons are expected to increase, phasing out older generation shoulder-fired weaponry in service with global armed forces. The elimination of heavy recoil equipment and the weapon's flexibility make it an attractive option for military forces, driving the growth of the recoilless artillery market during the forecast period. Shoulder-fired weapons, including antitank weapons, antiaircraft, and antivessel launchers, continue to be in high demand in military and paramilitary forces due to their manportable nature and multipurpose capabilities. However, negative demand for these weapons is emerging due to their misuse in terrorist activities. The ammunition industry is seeing increased business contracts for the production of various types of guns, missiles, and ammunition, including rocket-propelled grenades and guided and unguided technology. Advanced armored vehicles and trucks are also targets for these weapons, leading to a focus on defence capabilities such as antidefence systems. Defence contractors are investing in lightweight guided weapons like Javelin and MANPATS/MANPADS to enhance military forces' defence capabilities in modern warfare scenarios. Military budgets continue to prioritize these technologies, with countries spending billions on defence expenditures. The market for shoulder-fixed weapons is diverse, with private companies producing various explosion variants and technology advancements like infrared seekers, laser-guided, and command line systems, expanding the market range. Discover 360 analysis of this market. For complete information, schedule your consultation- Book Here! Market Challenges The shoulder-fired weapons market faces significant challenges due to escalating research and development (R&D) costs. Creating a new design for a shoulder-fired weapon can cost billions of dollars, making it difficult for manufacturers to innovate. The global economic slowdown further limits procurement prospects, with military spending decreasing in major economies like the US, China , Japan , and Europe . This fiscal pressure forces countries to adopt existing defense technologies, often sacrificing performance and reliability. The lengthy and expensive development process for new technologies, especially concepts, makes them economically unfeasible without mass adoption. Consequently, the shoulder-fired weapons market may experience limited growth during the forecast period. , , and . This fiscal pressure forces countries to adopt existing defense technologies, often sacrificing performance and reliability. The lengthy and expensive development process for new technologies, especially concepts, makes them economically unfeasible without mass adoption. Consequently, the shoulder-fired weapons market may experience limited growth during the forecast period. Shoulder-fired weapons, including guns, missiles, and rockets, are a significant part of the conventional arms market. These weapons face challenges in the ammunition industry due to the need for advanced technology, such as guidance systems for missiles and infrared seekers for laser-guided munitions. Business contracts with defense contractors and military forces require strict adherence to specifications and timelines. Hospital facilities and transportation, including armored vehicles and trucks, must ensure safe handling and storage. Terrorist activities pose a threat to civilian populations, leading to increased military expenditures for defense against such threats. Private companies develop lightweight, guided weapons like MANPATS and MANPADS for use in modern warfare scenarios. Technology advancements include unguided and guided technology, explosion variants, and command line-controlled fire-and-forget missiles. The ammunition industry must keep up with these developments to meet the demands of military forces and stay competitive in the market. For more insights on driver and challenges - Download a Sample Report Segment Overview This shoulder-fired weapons market report extensively covers market segmentation by Technology 1.1 Unguided 1.2 Guided Product 2.1 Ammunition 2.2 Launcher Geography 3.1 North America 3.2 APAC 3.3 Europe 3.4 Middle East and Africa and 3.5 South America 1.1 Unguided- Unguided shoulder-fired weapons are manual weapons that require human skills for aiming and shooting warheads. These weapons do not have guidance or optical imagery systems to assist users in aiming, making them a single-use system. Primarily used on battlefields, they are best suited for short-distance engagements due to their precision constraints. M136 AT4, a recoilless rifle, is a popular unguided shoulder-fired weapon used to engage light armored vehicles. It is a lightweight, self-contained unit consisting of a free-flight, fin-stabilized rocket-type cartridge. Due to the lack of aim assist technologies, the effectiveness of M136 AT4 is limited to line-of-sight operations and requires manual identification and estimation of range. To modernize their defense systems, countries are investing in advanced shoulder-fired missiles, such as those produced in Iran. Regional cooperation between defense contractors, like ZM Dezamet and Nammo, is also driving advancements in the unguided shoulder-fired weapons market. These collaborations aim to optimize development, modernization, and upgrade processes, increasing the lethality of these weapons against infantry fighting vehicles and main battle tanks. For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) - Download a Sample Report Learn and explore more about Technavio's in-depth research reports The global Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAMs) market is experiencing robust growth, driven by escalating defense budgets and geopolitical tensions. Expected to reach USD XX billion by 2028, the market is propelled by technological advancements and increased military modernization efforts. Key players such as Raytheon Technologies, Lockheed Martin, and BAE Systems are at the forefront, innovating to enhance missile accuracy and range. Rising demand for advanced air defense systems and integration with multi-layered defense architectures further fuel market expansion. Strategic investments and partnerships are shaping the future of this dynamic sector. Research Analysis Shoulder-fixed weapons, including antitank weapons, antiaircraft systems, and manportable antidefense systems like rocket-propelled grenades and antivessel launchers, face decreasing demand due to shifting defense priorities and technological advancements. Negative demand for these conventional arms arises from factors such as declining military expenditures in some regions and the prioritization of healthcare infrastructure and other social sectors over military capabilities in others. Modern warfare scenarios increasingly favor advanced armored vehicles, lightweight guided missiles, and man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS and MANPATS) with fire-and-forget missiles and sophisticated guidance systems. The LAMEA (Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and Eastern Europe) market for shoulder-fixed weapons is expected to experience moderate growth, driven by paramilitary forces and ongoing conflicts. However, the market's future remains uncertain as defense capabilities continue to evolve in response to technological advancements and changing geopolitical realities. Market Research Overview Shoulder-fixed weapons, including antitank weapons, antiaircraft systems, and manportable antidefence systems like rocket-propelled grenades and antivessel launchers, face negative demand due to declining military conflicts and defense budgets. The global market for these weapons is influenced by military expenditures, defense capabilities, and modern warfare scenarios. Paramilitary forces and terrorist activities also impact the demand. Key players include private companies specializing in the ammunition industry, producing guns, missiles, and ammunition for various explosion variants. Technology advancements have led to guided and unguided systems, with infrared seekers and laser-guided missiles becoming common. Lightweight, man-portable anti-tank systems (MANPATS) and man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) are in high demand due to their versatility and ease of use. Military forces continue to invest in advanced armored vehicles, trucks, and offensive fighting vehicles for defense against these weapons. The LAMEA (Latin America, Middle East, and Africa) region is a significant market for shoulder-fixed weapons due to ongoing conflicts and instability. Fire-and-forget missiles and guidance systems are driving development activities in the industry. Business contracts and military budgets remain crucial factors in the market's growth. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Technology Unguided Guided Product Ammunition Launcher Geography North America APAC Europe Middle East And Africa South America 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio Incumbent Maldives telco Dhiraagu said it has inaugurated the official landing of the SEA-ME-WE 6 subsea cable in the Maldives, although the cable is still almost two years away from activation. The SEA-ME-WE 6 is a 19,200 km cable connecting Singapore to France via the Red Sea, with landing points along the way in Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Pakistan, Djibouti, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman and Egypt. The cable has a total design capacity of 126 Tbps (at 12.6 Tbps per fibre pair). SEA-ME-WE 6 will not be ready for service until early 2026, according to a statement from Dhiraagu. However, it will be the first international subsea cable in which a Maldives telco owns a direct stake. Dhiraagu is one of the original backers of the SEA-ME-WE 6 club cable, along with Bangladesh Submarine Cable Company Limited (BSCCL), Bharti Airtel, China Unicom, Djibouti Telecom, Mobily, Orange, Singtel, Sri Lanka Telecom, Telecom Egypt, Telekom Malaysia, Telin and Trans World Associates. Bahrains Batelco joined the consortium in 2022 and will build the Al Kaleej subsea cable branch connecting SEA-ME-WE 6 to Bahrain, Qatar, Oman and the UAE. The SEA-ME-WE 6 submarine cable inaugurated today will ensure that the Maldives has direct access to multiple internet exchange points without having to be dependent on any single country to connect to the global network, said Maldives Minister of Cities, Local Government and Public Works, Adam Shareef Umar, at the inauguration ceremony on Thursday. Dhiraagus CEO and MD Ismail Rasheed added at the same event that the SEA-ME-WE 6 connection would not only boost the resiliency of the countrys digital backbone, but also help establish the Maldives as a global digital hub. This access by the Maldives to key digital hubs across the world will help us to provide higher speeds of digital connectivity, reduce latency and decrease the cost of our internet services in the future, he said. The islands of the Maldives archipelago are connected by several inter-island subsea cable systems, but currently its only international subsea link is to Sri Lanka via the Maldives Sri Lanka Cable (MSC), which has been in operation since 2021. That said, the Maldives has established a landing point for the India-Asia-Xpress (IAX) subsea cable connecting Mumbai with Singapore, which is expected to go live sometime this year. The IAX will interconnect with the India-Europe-Xpress (IEX) subsea cable system connecting Mumbai with Milan, Italy, that is scheduled to be ready for service sometime in 2025. Both systems are owned by Reliance Jio Infocomm and China Mobile. Challenge yourself, your friends, and family to try new bourbons AND win exciting prizes in celebration of Bourbon Heritage Month ST. LOUIS, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Bourbon & Banter will kick off National Bourbon Heritage Month with plenty of giveaways during the 11th annual "30 Days of Bourbon Challenge" starting September 1. This sip-and-salute celebration commemorates that auspicious moment on August 7, 2007, when the U.S. Senate declared September as National Bourbon Heritage Month. We've done the 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge for just over a decade now and every year it gets better. Post this Bourbon & Banter 30 Day of Bourbon Challenge September 2024 Calendar The bill, sponsored by Republican Senator Jim Bunning of Kentucky, passed by unanimous consent. The resolution calls for consumers who enjoy bourbon, declared "America's Native Spirit" by the 1864 Act of Congress, to celebrate the family heritage, tradition, and deep-rooted legacy that the bourbon industry contributes to the United States. "Bourbon Heritage Month is an opportunity to educate yourself about bourbon, enjoy different cocktails and bourbons, and learn the history it has in the states," said Patrick "Pops" Garrett, founder, and Chief Drinking Officer for Bourbon & Banter. "At Bourbon & Banter, we take it as an opportunity to encourage bourbon lovers and those new to spirit to explore the many different bourbons out there, try something new, and revisit old favorites. It's a true celebration of all things bourbon." Bourbon & Banter, part of the DrinkCurious community, will be celebrating in September with raffle prize packages, giveaways and their "30 Days of Bourbon Challenge." The "Challenge" is a deep but systematic dive into "drinking curious." To drink curious is to leave your preconceptions at the door and share a drink with friendsthose you know and those you'll make while sharing a drink. Camaraderie creates conversations that lead to deeper relationships and knowledge of what's in the glass. To complete this challenge, participants must drink a different bourbon daily for the entire month. Each of the 30 bourbons must be distinctly different and Rye, Scotch or American malt whiskeys do not apply to the 30-day sip tally. Join the challenge here. "We've done the 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge for just over a decade now and every year it gets better," said Garrett. "This year will be no different. We're going to have more giveaways, more interaction on social media, and plenty of fun while we're at it. It's an excuse to enjoy and celebrate bourbon with friends, family and even strangers." More than 25 distilleries have joined Bourbon & Banter for this year's Bourbon Heritage Month donating swag for weekly Bourbon Swag Pack giveaways (5), and, at the end of the month, one Mega-Pack winner. In addition, there's chances to win smaller prizes like swag from your favorite brands, free online whiskey classes, Bourbon & Banter community memberships and gear from their DrinkCurious Bourbon shop. Bourbon enthusiasts are encouraged to follow Bourbon & Banter on Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter) closely for their chance to claim a prize. About Bourbon & Banter: Since 2011, Bourbon & Banter has been the go-to destination for bourbon and whiskey enthusiasts. As the number one media property for bourbon education, news, and reviews, the trusted and engaging content has built a passionate and loyal audience. Readers can find information on new products, industry insights, and bourbon-themed events. It started with one simple goal spread the Bourbon Gospel and has grown into a kinship born in bourbon but cemented through genuine curiosity for the world of liquor and the resulting unfiltered conversations called banter. Visit www.bourbonbanter.com to learn more. SOURCE Bourbon & Banter NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global smart gas meters market size is estimated to grow by USD 3.37 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 10.87% during the forecast period. Smart gas meters enable efficient use of gas is driving market growth, with a trend towards growing demand for wireless smart gas meters. However, high initial capital requirement poses a challenge. Key market players include AEM SA, Aichi Tokei Denki Co. Ltd., Apator SA, Diehl Stiftung and Co. KG, EDMI Ltd., Fanna Technology, Flonidan AS, GenesisGas, Holley Technology Ltd., Honeywell International Inc., Hubbell Inc., Itron Inc., Landis Gyr AG, Pietro Fiorentini Spa, Raychem RPG Pvt. Ltd., Sagemcom Broadband SAS, Wasion Holdings Ltd., Xylem Inc., Yazaki Corp., and ZENNER INTERNATIONAL GMBH and CO.KG. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global smart gas meters market 2024-2028 Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies- View the snapshot of this report Smart Gas Meters Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2023 Historic period 2018 - 2022 Forecast period 2024-2028 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 10.87% Market growth 2024-2028 USD 3376.7 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 9.53 Regional analysis Europe, North America, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution Europe at 42% Key countries US, Germany, UK, China, and Japan Key companies profiled AEM SA, Aichi Tokei Denki Co. Ltd., Apator SA, Diehl Stiftung and Co. KG, EDMI Ltd., Fanna Technology, Flonidan AS, GenesisGas, Holley Technology Ltd., Honeywell International Inc., Hubbell Inc., Itron Inc., Landis Gyr AG, Pietro Fiorentini Spa, Raychem RPG Pvt. Ltd., Sagemcom Broadband SAS, Wasion Holdings Ltd., Xylem Inc., Yazaki Corp., and ZENNER INTERNATIONAL GMBH and CO.KG Market Driver Utilities are transitioning from traditional manual meter checks to advanced wireless smart gas meters, driven by the need for more accurate data and real-time pricing information. This shift is part of a larger trend towards upgrading utility infrastructure, which includes the adoption of a smart energy network. This network consists of sensors and controllers, a communication network, and data management and analysis systems. Sensors and controllers include AMI and AMR meters that measure flow, pressure, energy usage, and quality. The communication network uses technologies like SCADA, Wi-Fi, and cellular to collect and transmit data to the utility. Data management and analysis processes the information to optimize operations and make informed decisions for resource management. The global market for smart gas meters is expected to grow significantly due to this trend towards advanced metering solutions. Smart gas meters are gaining momentum in the market due to their accuracy and dependability. With businesses reopening and the economy's strength returning, electrical utilities are focusing on adoption. These meters offer real-time data communication through NB-IoT and high connectivity, enabling automated grid management and energy efficiency initiatives. The implementation of smart gas meters is a cost-benefit analysis for both gas utility providers and consumers, reducing energy consumption costs and enhancing safety. Emerging standards, such as Picarro and Sensirion's SGM6200 series, are prioritized for their functional benefits. The installation process is streamlined, and current infrastructure can support these developments. Natural gas suppliers are prioritizing the elimination of conventional meters, focusing on BCM (billion cubic meters) drill-down data collection from manufacturing plants and drilling activities. The climate target is another driving factor, as gas utility providers aim for operational security and safety in gas heating systems and gas supplies. Prioritized alarms and ongoing pipeline monitoring ensure a reliable and efficient system. Discover 360 analysis of this market. For complete information, schedule your consultation - Book Here! Market Challenges The installation cost of smart gas meters is higher than traditional meters, with a return on investment realized in five to eight years. However, the benefits do not always justify the investment for smaller utilities due to the substantial capital required. Integration with networking technology for connecting smart electricity and gas meters adds to the expense. Replacement costs for old meters also contribute to the high capital investment. These factors limit the growth of the global smart gas meters market, with operational costs including metering, communications, and consumer education. The Smart Gas Meters market is witnessing significant growth due to the prioritization of energy efficiency initiatives in electrical utilities and residential buildings. The elimination of manual meter reading and high connectivity through NB-IoT and other technologies offer functional benefits, including real-time data collection and prioritized alarms. Gas utility providers are investing in technologically advanced solutions, such as the SGM6200 series from Sensirion and Picarro's methane emission detection systems, to improve accuracy and operational security. However, challenges remain, including the implementation and installation process, gas companies' costs, and the slow economic recovery. The emergence of start-ups and the ongoing pipeline monitoring requirements add to the complexity. The fuel switch from oil to natural gas and the increasing population density in urban areas also contribute to the growing demand for smart meters. The manufacturing plants of companies like Temetra, U6 gas meter from SMS PLC, and the Sensirion SGM6200 series are working to meet the shipment volume demands while ensuring safety and ultra-low current consumption. The integration of smart meters into smart grids and the development of emerging standards, such as NB-IoT, are crucial for the future growth of the market. For more insights on driver and challenges - Request a sample report! Segment Overview This smart gas meters market report extensively covers market segmentation by Technology 1.1 AMR 1.2 AMI Component 2.1 Hardware 2.2 Software Geography 3.1 Europe 3.2 North America 3.3 APAC 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 AMR- Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) systems enable seamless communication between gas utilities and their customers by automatically collecting and transferring gas consumption, diagnostic, and status data from smart gas meters to a central database. This eliminates the need for manual meter readings, ensuring accurate billing and providing clients with valuable insights into their gas usage patterns. Gas companies are increasingly adopting AMR technology as it offers real-time gas usage data, enabling billing based on actual consumption instead of estimates. Additionally, AMR systems can detect leaks, tampering, low batteries, and reverse flow, and log meter events and gather interval data for various applications such as gas consumption profiling, time-of-use billing, demand forecasting, and remote shutoff. These advantages make AMR systems a preferred choice over traditional gas meters, driving the growth of the global smart gas meters market. For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2017-2021) - Download a Sample Report Learn and explore more about Technavio's in-depth research reports The global Flow Meter market is poised for significant growth, driven by increasing demand for accurate and efficient fluid measurement across industries such as oil & gas, water & wastewater, and chemicals. Key players are innovating with advanced technologies to enhance accuracy and reliability. Simultaneously, the Smart Home M2M market is expanding rapidly, fueled by rising consumer interest in interconnected home systems and automation. Enhanced connectivity and improved IoT solutions are expected to drive substantial market growth, offering smarter and more efficient home management solutions\ Research Analysis The Smart Gas Meters market is experiencing significant growth due to the adoption of advanced technologies that offer accuracy and dependability. These meters enable drill-down data analysis, facilitating energy efficiency initiatives and reducing energy consumption costs for both residential buildings and electrical utilities. The market is witnessing the elimination of conventional meters in favor of smart ones, driven by the economy's strength and the climate target. Communication technologies like NB-IoT ensure real-time data transmission, enabling automated grid management and ongoing pipeline monitoring. Emerging standards, such as those set by Sensirion's SGM6200 series, ensure operational security and safety. Drilling activities in regions like Berwick-on-Tweed contribute to the market's expansion. The market is expected to continue growing as more businesses reopen and focus on energy management. Market Research Overview The Smart Gas Meters market is experiencing significant growth due to the adoption of technologically advanced meters that offer accuracy and dependability. These meters are becoming increasingly important as businesses reopen and the economy's strength returns, leading to an increase in energy consumption costs. The implementation of smart grids and the ongoing pipeline monitoring are key developments in the market. The accuracy and real-time data provided by smart meters enable energy efficiency initiatives and the elimination of conventional meters. The high connectivity of these meters allows for communication between electrical utilities and gas utility providers, facilitating drill-down data analysis and prioritized alarms. The market is witnessing the emergence of new standards, such as NB-IoT, and the use of fuel like natural gas in residential buildings and gas heating systems is driving the shipment volume. The manufacturing plants are also focusing on the cost-benefit analysis of smart meters, considering their high initial investment but long-term savings. Safety and operational security are functional benefits of smart meters, with companies like Picarro and Sensirion offering methane emission detection and ultra-low current consumption solutions. The market is also seeing the entry of start-ups and the SMS PLC company's SGM6200 series. The market size is expected to reach Million units, with the growth driven by the climate target and the need for energy efficiency initiatives. The market is also being influenced by population density, drilling activities, and the implementation of smart leak detection systems. Despite the slow economic recovery, the market is expected to continue growing due to the functional benefits and cost savings offered by smart meters. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Technology AMR AMI Component Hardware Software Geography Europe North America APAC South America Middle East And Africa 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio MURFREESBORO, Tenn., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Tennessee Association of Dance (TAD) has named Lee Rennick as their new executive director. Nonprofit TAD is a 501(c)3 service organization operating as the lead advocacy, education, leadership and policy arm for dance and its constituencies in the state of Tennessee. Tennessee Dance Association's New Executive Director, Lee Rennick As TAD executive director, Rennick will be responsible for strategic planning, programming, development, sustainability, marketing, and advocacy as the organization prepares for the future. Rennick's background as an executive director and marketing executive -- combined with her deep passion for promoting community-based arts programs -- will help to further advance the mission of TAD, which celebrated its 50th anniversary during the pandemic. "We are thrilled to welcome Lee as our new executive director," said Marcellus Harper, Tennessee Association of Dance President. "She has an extensive background managing and marketing arts and education organizations, enthusiasm, great strategic planning skills and a new perspective." "I love making connections between groups, and I am particularly excited about the opportunity to collaborate with the diverse network of dance studio members, choreographers, professional dance companies, dance education programs in higher education and community and business partners to develop an organization that is meaningful and integral to the success of the dance community in Tennessee in the coming years," said Rennick. Rennick's previous roles include serving as the executive director for the Business Education Partnership of Rutherford County, marketing director for The Daily News Journal and vice president of marketing for Barker+Christol Agency. She has served on the boards of many arts organizations and is a founding member of the Boro Art Crawl, as well the Rutherford Arts Alliance. Rennick earned her marketing degree from the University of Missouri Trulaske College of Business. For more information on TAD and Ms. Rennick, please visit tennesseedance.org. SOURCE Tennessee Association of Dance PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Duffy Firm, a top Philadelphia catastrophic injury law firm, has obtained a $44,894,877.70 verdict against Temple University Hospital on behalf of a 19-year-old who now requires a lifetime of 24-hour care due to hospital negligence. In Dylan Hernandez v. Temple University Hospital, Inc. et al, Tom Duffy and Sean Dougherty represented the plaintiff, Hernandez, an innocent 15-year-old bystander who suffered a gunshot wound to the neck on July 22, 2020. Hernandez was rushed to Episcopal Hospital and intubated. Once stabilized, he was transferred to Temple University Hospital's SICU floor where he was diagnosed with an injury to his left vertebral artery, a broken jaw, and a fracture of his spine at C2. Two days later, Hernandez was moved to a regular floor and evaluated by a speech therapist using a barium swallow test, which indicated moderate pharyngeal dysphagia, a significant potential for aspiration when eating or drinking. Only two consistencies were tested: liquids and purees, but not solids, thick liquids, or postural and swallowing strategies. Though a clinical observation of Hernandez's attempts to eat was recommended, no one from the medical team observed Hernandez eating before he was discharged with instructions -- drafted by a third-year resident -- that failed to include the critical recommendations from the speech therapist. Less than 48 hours after discharge, Hernandez aspirated while eating mashed potatoes. He was rushed to the hospital where he suffered a cardiac arrest, resulting in hypoxic respiratory failure and neurologic injury. ""Defense counsel Joe Tucker and Rebecca Waddell are certainly formidable adversaries, backed by two very large law firms. They threw everything they could at us," said Tom Duffy. "But in the end, for Sean and I, this is about Dylan Hernandez, who will be well taken care of for the rest of his life as a result of the jury's decision." Prior to trial, the plaintiff's demand was $32,000,000, while the defense offered $500,000. With delay damages, the full amount will likely end up at just under $52,000,000. The Duffy Firm has been helping those who are catastrophically injured in Philadelphia and their families for more than 35 years. Learn more at duffyfirm.com. Contact: Jamie Mulholland [email protected] SOURCE The Duffy Firm Regional, family-owned grocery retailer offers 10% off the first Tuesday of each month and designated holidays throughout the year for service members and first responders WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of its long-standing commitment to give back to the communities it serves, The Raley's Companies announces a new 10% discount program for retired and active-duty military, first responders, and their families. Starting today, the discount is available for in-store and on-line purchases the first Tuesday of each month, as well as on Memorial Day, July 4th , and Veterans Day. Military & First Responder Discount Days: 10% Off Your Groceries - First Tuesday of Every Month, Memorial Day, 4th of July & Veterans Day Military & First Responder Discount Days: 10% Off Your Groceries "We are truly humbled by the dedication of our nation's military and first responders," said Keith Knopf, President & Chief Executive Officer for The Raley's Companies. "While we could never repay the selfless work of these brave and patriotic individuals, we wish to honor their service and share our gratitude for all they do and have done." Growing from a single store opening in 1935, The Raley's Companies now includes brick and mortar locations under Raley's and Bashas' family of brands, including: Raley's, Bel Air, Nob Hill, Raley's ONE Market, Bashas,' Food City, AJ's Fine Foods, and Bashas' Dine Markets. The new discount program is available at all brand stores. The military discount applies to active-duty military, retired military, veterans, and their household family members. The first responders discount applies to active firefighters and wildland firefighters including California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, New Mexico Forestry Division, U.S. Forest Services, National Park Services, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, police officers, sheriffs, paramedics, EMTs and their household family members. Members of these groups need to show their military ID or Veterans identification card. If the individual is a member of Something Extra or the Bashas' Thank You Program, the discount will activate once the military member enters their loyalty number (after the first time). In addition to the military and first responders new discount program, The Raley's Companies are deeply committed to giving back by addressing local hunger needs, advocating for good, and focusing on child welfare, the environment and sustainability, food access, food system education, and total wellness. Between 2022 and 2023, the organization donated more than $3 million to local and regional non-profits. For more information about the program, please visit raleys.com/discountdays to learn more. About The Raley's Companies The Raley's Companies is a private, family-owned and purpose-driven retail company headquartered in West Sacramento, CA. Since our founding in 1935, our store operations have grown to include more than 235 locations across eight states and four Tribal Nations under 10 well-known banners: Raley's, Bel Air, Nob Hill Foods, Raley's O-N-E Market, Bashas', Bashas' Dine, Food City, AJ's Fine Foods, Full Circle, and Farm Fresh To You. In addition, The Raley's Companies bridges the divide between the physical and digital retail experiences through the operation of Apium Logistics, Fieldera and fieldTRUE. Built on a higher purpose, the organization and our more than 21,000 employees are committed to quality offerings, exceptional service and doing right by our team members, communities and planet. To learn more, visit theraleyscompanies.com. SOURCE The Raley's Companies CRANSTON, R.I., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The RISE Group, Inc. today announced the appointment of Judith Ventura, CPA, CGMA as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Ventura, who has a long-standing association with Thielsch/The RISE Group, will be responsible for oversight of the company's financial strategies and initiatives, positioning the company to continue its rapid expansion in the face of increasing demand for its wide-ranging services. "Judith is an accomplished finance and accounting professional who brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of our company's operations," said Vin Graziano, CEO of The RISE Group. "Her background in employee-owned companies and her forward-thinking approach will be invaluable as we continue to drive growth and implement transformative changes. We are very excited to welcome Judith to our leadership team." Ventura has been a vital business consultant and the leader of The RISE Group's annual audit team for many years from her prior position as Partner in the Real Estate and Construction Groups at the accounting firm of KLR. Her impressive credentials include membership and service on many boards in construction industry professional associations in the region, including recognition as a two-time recipient of the Associated Builders and Contractors of RI Chairman Award and the Providence Business News 40 Under Forty award. "The RISE Group is a dynamic company with a strong commitment to innovation and growth," said Ventura. "I am excited to join our employee-owners and contribute to the next chapter of the company's success. There are significant opportunities ahead, and I look forward to working with the team to help our customers meet the challenges of our changing times." About The RISE Group, Inc. The RISE Group, Inc. is a multidisciplinary professional services company that provides a complete range of energy, engineering, and environmental testing to customers throughout the United States and internationally. Its operating divisions are highly regarded for their delivery of premium quality technical offerings from its offices in New England, New York, Ohio, Texas, and Florida. The RISE Group is a 100% employee-owned company, with over 600 staff participating in its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). For more information, contact: Vincent R. Graziano, President The RISE Group, Inc. (401) 784-3700 x 6115 [email protected] SOURCE The RISE Group, Inc. RADNOR, Pa., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Triumph Group, Inc. (TRIUMPH) [NYSE: TGI] today announced that its Actuation Products & Services business extended their repair and technical support agreement with Lockheed Martin as part of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter fleet readiness support. TRIUMPH's Clemmons, North Carolina facility will provide engineering and material support for the program over the next five years. TRIUMPH has provided original equipment and aftermarket Hydraulic Utility Actuation Valves (HUAV) for the F-35 program since 2014. The company began working with Lockheed Martin to provide HUAV aftermarket parts for military depot operations in 2021. The engineering and logistics agreement in support of sustainment efforts at MCAS Cherry Point will further showcase TRIUMPH's technical capability in high demand depot settings. "TRIUMPH's support to the F-35 program, Lockheed Martin, and the warfighters and maintainers who expect and demand fleet readiness is a reflection of our growing military aftermarket presence," said Natasha Trudeau, President of TRIUMPH Actuation Product & Services. "As a market leader in hydraulic power generation and actuation, our Clemmons team will provide exceptional service to Lockheed Martin and their customers over the next five years. We look forward to supporting Lockheed Martin on this and future readiness opportunities." TRIUMPH Actuation Products & Services is a leading provider of integrated solutions in design, development, manufacture and support of complex hydraulic, electro-mechanical and mechanical actuation components and subsystems and landing gear systems for the aerospace and defense industry. Our Actuation Products & Services business services customers around the world with six manufacturing sites across North America and Europe. TRIUMPH, headquartered in Radnor, Pennsylvania, designs, engineers, manufactures, repairs, and overhauls a broad portfolio of aerospace and defense systems and components. The company serves the global aviation industry, including original equipment manufacturers and the full spectrum of military and commercial aircraft operators. More information about TRIUMPH can be found on the company's website at www.triumphgroup.com . SOURCE Triumph Group Second quarter performance of $303 million in revenue, up 2% sequentially and 8% year over year, and 60% gross margin Launched Adult Use Sales in Ohio today at three locations Major milestones include opening of 200th retail location and 8-year anniversary of first sale TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Trulieve Cannabis Corp . (CSE: TRUL ) (OTCQX: TCNNF ) ("Trulieve" or "the Company"), a leading and top-performing cannabis company in the U.S., today announced its results for the quarter ended June 30, 2024. Results are reported in U.S. dollars and in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles unless otherwise indicated. Numbers may not sum perfectly due to rounding. Q2 2024 Financial and Operational Highlights* Revenue of $303 million increased 2% sequentially and 8% year over year, with 95% of revenue from retail sales. Strong second quarter sales were driven by higher retail traffic and increased wholesale revenue. increased 2% sequentially and 8% year over year, with 95% of revenue from retail sales. Strong second quarter sales were driven by higher retail traffic and increased wholesale revenue. Achieved gross margin of 60%, with GAAP gross profit of $182 million . . Reported net loss of $12 million , an improvement of 48% sequentially. Adjusted net income of $0.2 million * excludes non-recurring charges, asset impairments, disposals and discontinued operations. , an improvement of 48% sequentially. Adjusted net income of * excludes non-recurring charges, asset impairments, disposals and discontinued operations. Achieved EBITDA of $88 million *, or 29% of revenue and adjusted EBITDA of $107 million *, or 35% of revenue, up 1% sequentially and 36% year over year. *, or 29% of revenue and adjusted EBITDA of *, or 35% of revenue, up 1% sequentially and 36% year over year. Generated cash flow from operations of $71 million and free cash flow of $45 million *. and free cash flow of *. Cash at quarter end was $356 million , inclusive of an additional $2.0 million in tax refunds received during the second quarter, from amended returns, related to our tax challenge of 280E. , inclusive of an additional in tax refunds received during the second quarter, from amended returns, related to our tax challenge of 280E. Opened three new dispensaries in Brooksville , North Palm Beach , and Stuart, Florida . , , and . Acquired two dispensaries in Beavercreek and Columbus, Ohio . and . Ended the quarter with 32% of retail locations outside of the state of Florida . *See "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below for additional information and a reconciliation to GAAP for all Non-GAAP metrics. Recent Developments Launched adult use sales today in Ohio at three locations: Beavercreek , Columbus , and Westerville . at three locations: , , and . Rolled out #YesOn3 product line to support Smart and Safe Florida adult use campaign. Opened six new retail locations in Gulf Breeze , Homosassa , Madison , Ocala , and Panama City, Florida , and Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania . , , , , and , and . Currently operate 206 retail dispensaries and over four million square feet of cultivation and processing capacity in the United States . Management Commentary "Today marks another milestone, as Trulieve completed our first recreational sale in the state of Ohio with the successful conversion of our three locations to adult use. Second quarter results demonstrated strength in our core business with our third consecutive quarter of revenue growth and margin expansion," said Kim Rivers, Trulieve CEO. "All of the effort and investment over the past two years to set a solid foundation for long term success is paying dividends. Given our financial performance and significant scale in key markets, Trulieve is best positioned for the coming wave of growth catalysts." Financial Highlights* Results of Operations For the Three Months Ended For the Six Months Ended (Figures in millions except per share data and % change based on these figures) June 30, 2024 June 30, 2023 change March 31, 2024 change June 30, 2024 June 30, 2023 change Revenue $ 303 $ 282 8 % $ 298 2 % $ 601 $ 567 6 % Gross Profit $ 182 $ 142 28 % $ 174 5 % $ 356 $ 292 22 % Gross Margin % 60 % 50 % 58 % 59 % 51 % Operating Expenses $ 132 $ 433 (70 %) $ 128 3 % $ 260 $ 566 (54) % Operating Expenses % 43 % 154 % 43 % 43 % 100 % Net loss** $ (12) $ (404) 97 % $ (23) 48 % $ (35) $ (468) (92) % Net loss continuing operations $ (11) $ (342) 97 % $ (23) 54 % $ (34) $ (376) (91) % Adjusted net income (loss) $ 0 $ (15) 101 % $ (10) 102 % $ (10) $ (32) (69) % Basic and diluted shares outstanding 190 189 189 190 189 EPS continuing operations $ (0.04) $ (1.80) 98 % $ (0.16) 72 % $ (0.21) $ (1.97) (90 %) Adjusted EPS $ 0.00 $ (0.08) 101 % $ (0.05) 102 % $ (0.05) $ (0.17) (69 %) Adjusted EBITDA $ 107 $ 79 36 % $ 106 1 % $ 213 $ 157 36 % Adjusted EBITDA Margin % 35 % 28 % 36 % 35 % 28 % *See "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below for additional information and a reconciliation to GAAP for all Non-GAAP metrics. **Net loss includes discontinued operations and non-controlling interest. Conference Call The Company will host a conference call and live audio webcast on August 6, 2024, at 8:30 A.M. Eastern time, to discuss its second quarter 2024 financial results. Interested parties can join the conference call by dialing in as directed below. Please dial in 15 minutes prior to the call. North American toll free: 1-844-824-3830 Passcode: 1732811 International: 1-412-542-4136 Passcode: 1732811 A live audio webcast of the conference call will be available at: Trulieve Cannabis Corp Q2 2024 Earnings A powerpoint presentation and archived replay of the webcast will be available at: https: //investors.trulieve.com/events The Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, will be available on the SEC's website or at https://investors.trulieve.com/quarterly-results . The Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for the period and the accompanying financial statements and notes will be available under the Company's profile on https://www.sedarplus.ca/landingpage/ and on its website at https://investors.trulieve.com/quarterly-results . This news release is not in any way a substitute for reading those financial statements, including the notes to the financial statements. Trulieve Cannabis Corp. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (in millions, except for share data) June 30, 2024 December 31, 2023 ASSETS Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 355.2 $ 201.4 Restricted cash 0.9 6.6 Accounts receivable, net 7.5 6.7 Inventories 207.6 213.1 Income tax receivable 6.3 Prepaid expenses 23.6 17.6 Other current assets 26.7 23.7 Notes receivable - current portion, net 2.2 6.2 Assets associated with discontinued operations 1.0 2.0 Total current assets 631.1 477.3 Property and equipment, net 678.1 676.4 Right of use assets - operating, net 104.3 95.9 Right of use assets - finance, net 56.8 58.5 Intangible assets, net 887.3 917.2 Goodwill 483.9 483.9 Notes receivable, net 6.0 7.4 Other assets 15.4 10.4 Long-term assets associated with discontinued operations 2.0 2.0 TOTAL ASSETS $ 2,864.9 $ 2,729.1 LIABILITIES Current Liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 87.2 $ 83.2 Deferred revenue 4.3 1.3 Notes payable - current portion 3.9 3.8 Operating lease liabilities - current portion 10.8 10.1 Finance lease liabilities - current portion 8.1 7.6 Construction finance liabilities - current portion 1.7 1.5 Contingencies 4.6 4.4 Liabilities associated with discontinued operations 3.2 3.0 Total current liabilities 123.8 114.8 Long-Term Liabilities: Private placement notes, net 364.0 363.2 Notes payable, net 113.5 115.9 Operating lease liabilities 101.0 92.2 Finance lease liabilities 61.0 61.7 Construction finance liabilities 136.1 136.7 Deferred tax liabilities 211.1 207.0 Uncertain tax position liabilities 333.1 180.4 Other long-term liabilities 4.7 7.1 Long-term liabilities associated with discontinued operations 40.2 41.6 TOTAL LIABILITIES $ 1,488.5 $ 1,320.4 MEZZANINE EQUITY Redeemable non-controlling interest $ 5.3 $ SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Common stock, no par value; unlimited shares authorized. 187,324,658 and 186,235,818 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. $ $ Additional paid-in-capital 2,056.1 2,055.1 Accumulated deficit (675.7) (640.6) Non-controlling interest (9.3) (5.9) TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 1,371.1 1,408.6 TOTAL LIABILITIES, MEZZANINE EQUITY, AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 2,864.9 $ 2,729.1 Trulieve Cannabis Corp. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) (in millions, except for share data) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue $ 303.4 $ 281.8 $ 601.1 $ 567.0 Cost of goods sold 121.8 140.2 245.6 275.2 Gross profit 181.6 141.6 355.5 291.8 Expenses: Sales and marketing 63.2 61.1 124.3 121.8 General and administrative 39.4 34.9 79.6 74.2 Depreciation and amortization 28.1 26.1 55.8 55.7 Impairment and disposal of long-lived assets, net of (recoveries) 1.2 3.3 (0.1) 6.7 Impairment of goodwill 307.6 307.6 Total expenses 131.9 432.9 259.6 566.0 Income (loss) from operations 49.8 (291.3) 95.9 (274.1) Other income (expense): Interest expense, net (15.4) (18.9) (30.1) (40.1) Interest income 4.0 1.3 7.3 2.4 Other (expense) income, net (1.8) 0.6 (4.6) 4.7 Total other expense, net (13.2) (17.0) (27.4) (32.9) Income (loss) before provision for income taxes 36.5 (308.2) 68.5 (307.1) Provision for income taxes 47.2 33.8 102.6 69.3 Net loss from continuing operations (10.7) (342.1) (34.2) (376.4) Net loss from discontinued operations, net of tax benefit of zero, $(1.1), zero, and $(0.6), respectively (1.6) (64.8) (3.0) (96.1) Net loss (12.3) (406.9) (37.2) (472.5) Less: net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest from continuing operations 0.0 (2.4) (1.4) (3.3) Less: net loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interest from continuing operations (0.3) (0.7) Less: net loss attributable to non-controlling interest from discontinued operations (0.7) (1.2) Net loss attributable to common shareholders $ (12.0) $ (403.8) $ (35.1) $ (468.0) Earnings Per Share (see numerator reconciliation below) Net loss per share - Continuing operations: Basic and diluted $ (0.04) $ (1.80) $ (0.21) $ (1.97) Net loss per share - Discontinued operations: Basic and diluted $ (0.01) $ (0.34) $ (0.02) $ (0.50) Weighted average number of common shares used in computing net loss per share: Basic and diluted 190.3 189.1 189.9 189.0 EPS Numerator Reconciliation Net loss attributable to common shareholders (from above) $ (12.0) $ (403.8) $ (35.1) $ (468.0) Net loss from discontinued operations, net of tax, attributable to common shareholders 1.6 64.1 3.0 94.9 Adjustment of redeemable non-controlling interest to maximum redemption value 1.9 (6.9) Net loss from continuing operations available to common shareholders $ (8.5) $ (339.7) $ (39.1) $ (373.0) Trulieve Cannabis Corp. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) (in millions) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Cash flows from operating activities Net loss $ (12.3) $ (406.9) $ (37.2) $ (472.5) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 28.1 26.2 55.8 56.6 Depreciation included in cost of goods sold 13.3 17.4 26.8 30.9 Impairment and disposal of long-lived assets, net of recoveries 1.2 (24.3) (0.1) 6.7 Impairment of goodwill 307.6 307.6 Amortization of operating lease right of use assets 2.8 2.6 5.4 5.3 Share-based compensation 5.0 0.5 10.1 2.9 Allowance for credit losses 1.5 0.5 4.4 0.4 Deferred income tax expense (benefit) (6.5) (4.3) 3.5 (12.2) Loss from disposal of discontinued operations 69.3 69.3 Other non-cash changes 0.6 1.8 1.2 3.3 Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Inventories 1.5 40.1 5.0 40.3 Accounts receivable (0.7) (2.2) 0.7 (0.7) Prepaid expenses and other current assets (6.8) 6.7 (5.8) 5.0 Other assets (2.6) (0.2) (5.0) 1.7 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (1.3) (13.5) (0.2) (4.3) Income tax receivable / payable (7.5) (36.3) (4.8) (49.7) Other liabilities 0.2 (6.1) 0.2 (15.3) Operating lease liabilities (2.1) (2.4) (4.3) (4.9) Deferred revenue 2.2 0.7 3.0 (3.8) Uncertain tax position liabilities 55.1 1.4 152.8 11.2 Other long-term liabilities (0.3) (2.0) (2.4) (0.8) Proceeds received from insurance for operating expenses 1.5 Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 71.3 (23.5) 210.5 (23.1) Cash flows from investing activities Purchases of property and equipment (26.5) (11.0) (42.1) (24.7) Capitalized interest 0.3 (0.2) 0.3 (0.8) Purchases of internal use software (6.5) (2.3) (11.5) (4.4) Proceeds received from insurance recoveries on property and equipment 0.5 Cash paid for licenses (0.5) (0.5) (0.5) (4.0) Payments received from notes receivable 0.3 0.2 0.6 0.4 Proceeds from disposal activities 7.3 0.7 8.2 Net cash used in investing activities (33.0) (6.5) (51.9) (25.3) Cash flows from financing activities Proceeds from non-controlling interest holders' subscription 3.0 Proceeds from equity exercises 0.0 0.2 Payments on notes payable (1.5) (1.4) (2.4) (4.8) Payments on finance lease obligations (1.7) (1.9) (3.6) (3.9) Payments on construction finance liabilities (0.8) (0.3) (1.6) (0.6) Payments for taxes related to net share settlement of equity awards (0.1) (0.1) Payments and costs related to consolidated VIE settlement transaction (5.1) (5.1) Distributions to subsidiary non-controlling interest (1.1) (0.1) Net cash used in financing activities (9.2) (3.5) (10.7) (9.3) Net increase (decrease) in cash, and cash equivalents 29.2 (33.5) 147.8 (57.7) Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, beginning of period 326.9 192.8 208.0 213.8 Cash and cash equivalents of discontinued operations, beginning of period 2.5 0.3 5.7 Less: cash and cash equivalents of discontinued operations, end of period (1.8) (1.8) Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, end of period $ 356.1 $ 159.9 $ 356.1 $ 159.9 The consolidated statements of cash flows include continuing operations and discontinued operations for the periods presented. Non-GAAP Financial Measures (Unaudited) In addition to our results determined in accordance with GAAP, we supplement our results with non-GAAP financial measures, including EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin %, adjusted net income (loss), adjusted net income (loss) per diluted share and free cash flow. The Company calculates EBITDA as net income (loss) before net interest expense, income tax expense, depreciation and amortization; adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) before net interest expense, interest income, income tax expense, depreciation and amortization and also excludes certain extraordinary items; adjusted EBITDA margin as adjusted EBITDA as % of revenue, adjusted net income (loss) as net income (loss) less certain extraordinary items; adjusted EPS as adjusted net income (loss) divided by basic and diluted shares outstanding; and free cash flow as cash flow from operations less capital expenditures. Our management uses these non-GAAP financial measures in conjunction with GAAP financial measures to evaluate our operating results and financial performance. We believe these measures are useful to investors as they are widely used measures of performance and can facilitate comparison to other companies. These non-GAAP financial measures are not, and should not be considered as, measures of liquidity. These non-GAAP financial measures have limitations as analytical tools in that they do not reflect all of the amounts associated with our results of operations as determined in accordance with GAAP. Because of these limitations, these non-GAAP financial measures should be considered along with GAAP financial performance measures. The presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. Investors are encouraged to review the reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures. A reconciliation of the non-GAAP financial measures to such GAAP measures can be found below. These non-GAAP financial measures should be considered supplemental to, and not a substitute for, our reported financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP. Reconciliation of Non-GAAP EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA (Unaudited) The following table presents a reconciliation of GAAP net loss to non-GAAP EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA for each of the periods presented: (Amounts expressed in millions of United States dollars) Three Months Ended For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 June 30, 2023 March 31, 2024 June 30, 2024 June 30, 2023 Net loss attributable to common shareholders $ (12.0) $ (403.8) $ (23.1) $ (35.1) $ (468.0) Add (deduct) impact of: Interest expense, net $ 15.4 $ 18.9 $ 14.7 $ 30.1 $ 40.1 Interest income $ (4.0) $ (1.3) $ (3.3) $ (7.3) $ (2.4) Provision for income taxes $ 47.2 $ 33.8 $ 55.4 $ 102.6 $ 69.3 Depreciation and amortization $ 28.1 $ 26.1 $ 27.8 $ 55.8 $ 55.7 Depreciation included in cost of goods sold $ 13.3 $ 16.0 $ 13.5 $ 26.8 $ 28.0 EBITDA (Non-GAAP) $ 88.0 $ (310.4) $ 85.0 $ 173.0 $ (277.3) EBITDA Margin (Non-GAAP) 29 % (110) % 29 % 29 % (49) % Impairment of goodwill $ $ 307.6 $ $ $ 307.6 Impairment and disposal of long-lived assets, net of (recoveries) $ 1.2 $ 3.3 $ (1.4) $ (0.1) $ 6.7 Legislative campaign contributions $ 5.0 $ 8.6 $ 9.2 $ 14.2 $ 19.1 Acquisition, transaction, and other non-recurring costs $ 4.3 $ 5.7 $ 3.7 $ 8.0 $ 7.6 Share-based compensation $ 5.0 $ 0.5 $ 5.2 $ 10.1 $ 2.9 Other income (expense), net $ 1.8 $ (0.6) $ 2.7 $ 4.6 $ (4.7) Discontinued operations, net of tax, attributable to common shareholders $ 1.6 $ 64.1 $ 1.4 $ 3.0 $ 94.9 Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) $ 107.0 $ 78.7 $ 105.8 $ 212.8 $ 156.8 Adjusted EBITDA Margin (Non-GAAP) 35 % 28 % 36 % 38 % 53 % Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Adjusted Net Income (Loss) (Unaudited) The following table presents a reconciliation of GAAP net loss to non-GAAP adjusted net income (loss), for each of the periods presented: For the Three Months Ended For the Six Months Ended (Amounts expressed in millions of United States dollars) June 30, 2024 June 30, 2023 March 31, 2024 June 30, 2024 June 30, 2023 Net loss attributable to common shareholders $ (12.0) $ (403.8) $ (23.1) $ (35.1) $ (468.0) Net loss from discontinued operations, net of tax, attributable to common shareholders $ 1.6 $ 64.1 $ 1.4 $ 3.0 $ 94.9 Adjustment of redeemable non-controlling interest to maximum redemption value $ 1.9 $ $ (8.8) $ (6.9) $ Net loss from continuing operations available to common shareholders $ (8.5) $ (339.7) $ (30.6) $ (39.1) $ (373.0) Add (deduct) impact of: Adjustment of redeemable non-controlling interest to maximum redemption value $ (1.9) $ $ 8.8 $ 6.9 $ Impairment of goodwill $ $ 307.6 $ $ $ 307.6 Impairment and disposal of long-lived assets, net of (recoveries) $ 1.2 $ 3.3 $ (1.4) $ (0.1) $ 6.7 Legislative campaign contributions $ 5.0 $ 8.6 $ 9.2 $ 14.2 $ 19.1 Acquisition, transaction, and other non-recurring costs $ 4.3 $ 5.7 $ 3.7 $ 8.0 $ 7.6 Adjusted net income (loss) (Non-GAAP) $ 0.2 $ (14.6) $ (10.2) $ (10.0) $ (32.1) Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Adjusted Net Income (Loss) Per Diluted Share (Unaudited) The following table presents a reconciliation of GAAP net loss attributable to common shareholders per share to non-GAAP adjusted net income (loss) per diluted share, for each of the periods presented: For the Three Months Ended For the Six Months Ended (Amounts expressed are per share except for shares which are in millions) June 30, 2024 June 30, 2023 March 31, 2024 June 30, 2024 June 30, 2023 Net loss attributable to common shareholders $ (0.06) $ (2.14) $ (0.12) $ (0.18) $ (2.48) Net loss from discontinued operations, net of tax, attributable to common shareholders $ 0.01 $ 0.34 $ 0.01 $ 0.02 $ 0.50 Adjustment of redeemable non-controlling interest to maximum redemption value $ 0.01 $ $ (0.05) $ (0.04) $ Net loss from continuing operations available to common shareholders $ (0.04) $ (1.80) $ (0.16) $ (0.21) $ (1.97) Add (deduct) impact of: Adjustment of redeemable non-controlling interest to maximum redemption value $ (0.01) $ $ 0.05 $ 0.04 $ Impairment of goodwill $ $ 1.63 $ $ $ 1.63 Impairment and disposal of long-lived assets, net of (recoveries) $ 0.01 $ 0.02 $ (0.01) $ 0.00 $ 0.04 Legislative campaign contributions $ 0.03 $ 0.05 $ 0.05 $ 0.07 $ 0.10 Acquisition, transaction, and other non-recurring costs $ 0.02 $ 0.03 $ 0.02 $ 0.04 $ 0.04 Adjusted net income (loss) (Non-GAAP) $ 0.00 $ (0.08) $ (0.05) $ (0.05) $ (0.17) Basic and diluted shares outstanding 190.3 189.1 189.5 189.9 189.0 Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Free Cash Flow (Unaudited) The following table presents a reconciliation of GAAP cash flow from operating activities to non-GAAP free cash flow, for each of the periods presented: For the Three Months Ended For the Six Months Ended (Amounts expressed in millions of United States dollars) June 30, 2024 June 30, 2023 March 31, 2024 June 30, 2024 June 30, 2023 Cash flow from operating activities $ 71.3 $ (23.5) $ 139.2 $ 210.5 $ (23.1) Payments for property and equipment $ (26.5) $ (11.0) $ (15.6) $ (42.1) $ (24.7) Free cash flow $ 44.8 $ (34.5) $ 123.6 $ 168.4 $ (47.8) Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes forward-looking information and statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements relate to the Company's expectations or forecasts of business, operations, financial performance, cash flows, prospects, and other plans, intentions, expectations, estimates, and beliefs and include statements regarding the Company's guidance for 2024, growth opportunities and and the Company's positioning for the future. Words such as "expects", "continue", "will", "anticipates" and "intends" or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current projections and expectations about future events and financial trends that management believes might affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs, and on certain assumptions and analysis made by the Company in light of the experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors management believes are appropriate. Forward-looking information and statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information and statements herein, including, without limitation, the risks discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and in our periodic reports subsequently filed with the United Sates Securities and Exchange Commission and in the Company's filings on https://www.sedarplus.ca/landingpage/ . Although the Company believes that any forward-looking information and statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such information and statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking information and statements. Any forward-looking information and statements herein are made as of the date hereof and, except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking information and statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward looking information and statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise. About Trulieve Trulieve is an industry leading, vertically integrated cannabis company and multi-state operator in the U.S., with leading market positions in Arizona, Florida, and Pennsylvania. Trulieve is poised for accelerated growth and expansion, building scale in retail and distribution in new and existing markets through its hub strategy. By providing innovative, high-quality products across its brand portfolio, Trulieve delivers optimal customer experiences and increases access to cannabis, helping patients and customers to live without limits. Trulieve is listed on the CSE under the symbol TRUL and trades on the OTCQX market under the symbol TCNNF. For more information, please visit Trulieve.com . Facebook: @Trulieve Instagram: @Trulieve_ X: @Trulieve Investor Contact Christine Hersey, Vice President of Investor Relations +1 (424) 202-0210 [email protected] Media Contact Phil Buck, APR, Corporate Communications Manager +1 (406) 370-6226 [email protected] SOURCE Trulieve Cannabis Corp. Grant will help fund 40-mile transmission line rebuild in Wake , Johnston and Wayne counties to improve reliability for an estimated 14,000 customers RALEIGH, N.C., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm today announced the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)'s Grid Deployment Office has selected the North Carolina Innovative Transmission Rebuild project to receive $57 million in cost-share funding to enhance the power grid's ability to deliver affordable, resilient energy. The project a partnership between Duke Energy, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and State Energy Office aims to reconstruct the 230-kV Lee-Milburnie transmission line to improve reliability for customers and meet growing electricity demand in eastern North Carolina. "The grant announced today by the Department of Energy is a win for the communities Duke Energy serves, and signals North Carolina's leadership in the energy transition," said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy North Carolina state president. "This project will help reduce outages, enhance the power system's resilience against extreme weather, enable the connection of more clean energy sources to the grid and create job opportunities and new partnerships with community organizations." The Lee-Milburnie transmission line spans from the Greater Raleigh area to outside Goldsboro, N.C., including portions of Wake, Johnston and Wayne counties. The line rebuild will take place in the existing right of way to minimize the impact to nearby communities. "Supporting our customers by helping ensure they have reliable service and restoring that service safely and quickly when we need to is our No. 1 job," said Scott Batson, senior vice president and chief power grid officer at Duke Energy. "The generous grant provided by the U.S. Department of Energy for this transmission line reconstruction work will improve the reliability of the grid while delivering affordable, clean energy to our customers." The funds are part of the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program, the federal government's single largest direct investment into critical grid infrastructure. Funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and administered by DOE's Grid Deployment Office, the GRIP program leverages federal and private investments to support a reliable grid that is prepared for extreme weather while also delivering affordable, clean energy and creating local economic opportunities. "This funding will help support North Carolinians' efforts to invest in grid resiliency, improve reliability, and meet electricity demand," said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. "The Biden-Harris Administration is investing in the most crucial component of the nation's infrastructure, expanding and hardening the grid to allow more resilient, clean power to reach more household, and support the ongoing manufacturing boomall while creating thousands of local jobs." This North Carolina Innovative Transmission Rebuild will create robust opportunities for local economic development, including significant investments in workforce development programs at Nash Community College and North Carolina A&T State University. "North Carolina A&T State University and STEPs4GROWTH are proud to be partners in developing a skilled workforce in support of Duke Energy's efforts to deliver reliable, affordable energy to its customers," said Balu Gokaraju, Ph.D., principal investigator for the STEPs4GROWTH program. "This project represents a significant investment that will not only enhance the grid but also benefit the community by creating good jobs with family sustaining wages." The joint effort will create an estimated 550 new jobs that can be filled through partnerships with historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and local community colleges. "We have been a proud partner of Duke Energy for many years and are truly excited about this new initiative to enhance power grid reliability in North Carolina," said Lew K. Hunnicutt, President of Nash Community College. "We look forward to doing our part to support this important project, which will benefit our community through new job opportunities for skilled workers." To learn more, visit the U.S. Department of Energy Grid Deployment Office's website. Duke Energy Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.4 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 54,800 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. Duke Energy is executing an ambitious clean energy transition, keeping reliability, affordability and accessibility at the forefront as the company works toward net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas business by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including expanded energy storage, renewables, natural gas and nuclear. More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition. Contact: Logan Stewart 24-Hour: 800.559.3853 SOURCE Duke Energy Falls Church, Virginia, tops rankings that examine health outcomes, equity and mental health. WASHINGTON, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in rankings and civic journalism, today unveiled the 2024 Healthiest Communities rankings. Now in its sixth edition, the Healthiest Communities rankings serve as a tool to inform residents, community health leaders and elected officials about policies and best practices for better health outcomes. For the second time since 2018, Falls Church, Virginia claims the top spot in the rankings with the highest overall score, achieving top 20 results across five of the 10 categories, including a No. 1 ranking in Education, No. 4 ranking in Population Health and No. 6 ranking in Economy. However, Falls Church lands outside the project's threshold for the top-performing communities in the Equity and Housing categories. Los Alamos County, New Mexico , the No. 1 community in the previous three editions of the rankings, takes the overall No. 2 spot this year, with high marks in Housing (No. 1) and Population Health (No. 2). Rounding out the top five are Douglas County, Colorado at No. 3, Sioux County, Iowa at No. 4 and Hamilton County, Indiana at No. 5. "Evaluating community health is crucial as we consider the well-being of citizens across our country," said Julia Haines, U.S. News data editor. "The Healthiest Communities rankings examine which communities offer the greatest opportunity to live a healthy, productive life. They also highlight that even the 'healthiest' communities struggle in certain areas." Additional key findings from the 2024 edition of Healthiest Communities include: Northern Virginia and Iowa are each home to four of the top 20 Healthiest Communities . These include Falls Church (No. 1), Fairfax County (No. 14), Fairfax city (No. 15) and Arlington (No. 19) in Northern Virginia , and Sioux County (No. 4), Dallas County (No. 6), Bremer County (No. 9) and Grundy County (No. 18) in Iowa . . These include (No. 1), (No. 14), city (No. 15) and (No. 19) in , and (No. 4), (No. 6), (No. 9) and (No. 18) in . The states with the highest average overall community-level scores in the analysis are Rhode Island , Iowa and New Hampshire , whereas the lowest average scores are found in Mississippi , Louisiana and Arkansas . in the analysis are , and , whereas the are found in , and . Five of the top 10 communities with the longest life expectancy are in Colorado : Summit County (93), Pitkin County (92.7), Eagle County (88.9), San Miguel County (88.3) and Ouray County (87.5). Despite its high life expectancy, Ouray County was not assessed for the rankings. : (93), (92.7), (88.9), (88.3) and (87.5). Despite its high life expectancy, was not assessed for the rankings. Two metrics address disparities by census block groups or tracts within a county . Falls Church, Virginia , leads with the lowest neighborhood disparity in poverty, while Weston County, Wyoming , excels with the lowest neighborhood disparity in educational attainment. . , leads with the lowest neighborhood disparity in poverty, while , excels with the lowest neighborhood disparity in educational attainment. The gender wage gap is most prevalent in Eureka County, Nevada . Additionally, in eight counties in Georgia and seven in New Mexico , among others, women's median earnings meet or exceed those of men. The 2024 Healthiest Communities rankings and accompanying analysis are based on an evaluation of approximately 2,800 communities nationwide. The project looks at how counties and county equivalents perform across 92 health and health-related metrics to capture how they best serve their residents in 10 main categories: Community Vitality, Economy, Education, Environment, Equity, Food & Nutrition, Population Health, Housing, Infrastructure and Public Safety. The top 500 counties receive a ranking. To compile the rankings and create the overall Healthiest Communities project, U.S. News partnered with the University of Missouri Extension Center for Applied Research and Engagement Systems (CARES), a research institution skilled in community health assessment. Overall, the rankings are based on metrics drawn from sources such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. New measures added to the analysis this year to better reflect health-related challenges facing communities and continual efforts to achieve gender parity include a county's food insecurity rate; its rate of mortality tied to flu, influenza, pneumonia and COVID-19; and the size of its gender wage gap. For more information, read the methodology . 2024 Healthiest Communities - Top 10 *See the full rankings here . Falls Church, Virginia Los Alamos County, New Mexico Douglas County, Colorado Sioux County, Iowa Hamilton County, Indiana Dallas County, Iowa Ozaukee County, Wisconsin Carver County, Minnesota Bremer County, Iowa Morgan County, Utah 2024 Key Measures Top 5 Communities for Health Outcomes Marin County, California Los Alamos County, New Mexico Carver County, Minnesota Hunterdon County, New Jersey Arlington County, Virginia Top 5 Communities for Access to Health Care Suffolk County, Massachusetts Olmsted County, Minnesota Montour County, Pennsylvania Perry County, Kentucky Salem, Virginia Top 5 Communities for Mental Health Honolulu County, Hawaii Santa Clara County, California Fairfax County, Virginia Wayne County, Nebraska San Mateo County, California Top 5 Communities for Health Equity Adair County, Missouri Pitkin County, Colorado Franklin County, Missouri Coles County, Illinois Tuscarawas County, Ohio To view the full rankings and search county profiles, visit www.usnews.com/news/healthiest-communities/rankings . For more information on the 2024 Healthiest Communities, follow coverage on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) using #HealthiestCommunities. About U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News, Real Estate and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C. SOURCE U.S. News & World Report, L.P. This week has seen yet another airline announce an alliance with a telecoms company with the news that Kenya Airways has signed a strategic partnership with Kenyan operator Safaricom. Said to be aimed at driving innovations that will enhance the airlines operational efficiency, strengthen cybersecurity, and elevate the customer experience, the partnership will focus on enhancing connectivity, in-flight Wi-Fi, infrastructure inspection, security surveillance, loyalty programmes, data science, software development, and aviation innovation in areas such as agriculture. The companies will also collaborate in developing and implementing Internet of Things (IoT) solutions for warehousing, baggage tracking, aircraft materials and ULD, to cover tracking, location, reconciliation and stock taking. ULD, or unit load device, is a container used to load luggage, freight and mail on wide-body aircraft and specific narrow-body aircraft. This alliance seems to be inspired in part by Kenya Airways Fahari Innovation Hub, which the airline describes as is a oneofakind centre of aviation innovation excellence in Africa that facilitates creative and collaborative ways of providing muchneeded solutions to business problems. This problem-solving includes facilitating partnerships between Kenya Airways and other stakeholders in the aviation and technology sectors, including universities, research institutions and tech companies. This announcement follows news of a number of other recent alliances in which telecommunications is being used to enhance operational efficiency in the airline business. They include a new strategic partnership between Indonesian telecoms service provider Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison with Garuda Indonesia, and another involving Middle Eastern operator Ooredoo and Qatar Airways. The BlueCheck Ukraine Grant will enable the Vovk Foundation to deploy several modular kitchens for internally displaced persons in Ukraine. MORGANTOWN, W.Va., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Vovk Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization established in 2023 to offer assistance and support to Ukrainians and those of Ukrainian ancestry, is pleased to announce that it has secured a significant grant of approximately USD $30,000.00 from BlueCheck Ukraine to support its work in Ukraine. This grant will bolster the deployment of modular kitchens for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). Since the devastating onset of the conflict in Ukraine, approximately 5.1 million people have been internally displaced, encountering severe hardships. The escalation of the conflict, especially near Avdiivka and in western villages like Pokrovsk, has significantly strained local resources with a rising number of IDPs. The Vovk Foundation has been at the forefront, addressing these urgent needs through innovative solutions like its portable, fuel-efficient, and durable modular kitchens. Successfully tested to serve over 100 people each, these kitchens are crucial for communities overwhelmed by the influx of displaced families. With the new funding, the Foundation plans to acquire four additional kitchens for critical regions, enhancing its capability to provide immediate and essential services to those in need. These kitchens, once fully operational, will provide meals for a minimum of 2500 people weekly. "BlueCheck Ukraine's support significantly enhances our ability to assist displaced communities in Ukraine," said Yurij Wowczuk, Director of the Vovk Foundation. "The modular kitchens have been a lifeline for many families, and with this funding, we can ensure that more people have access to nutritious meals as Russia's aggression continues." With this generous grant from BlueCheck Ukraine, the Vovk Foundation is set to expand its impact, providing vital services to communities and individuals most affected by Russia's war against Ukraine. The Foundation remains committed to its mission of supporting the resilience and future growth of Ukraine through these challenging times. About the Vovk Foundation Founded in 2023, The Vovk Foundation Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation with full tax-exempt status. Headquartered in Morgantown, WV, the Foundation has impactful work centers around five verticals in support of Ukraine and the Ukrainian people: education, entrepreneurship, innovation, economic rebuilding, and truth telling. The Foundation has commissioned the writing of a significant book on the noted OUN leader and civic figure Ivan Vovchuk. For more information, visit the Vovk Foundation website at www.vovkfoundation.org . About BlueCheck Ukraine BlueCheck was launched in March 2022 and is a collective of humanitarian crisis response experts, entrepreneurs, and filmmakers with decades of experience addressing the needs of conflict-affected populations and documenting solidarity movements countering oppression. BlueCheck Ukraine identifies, vets, and fast-tracks urgent financial support to Ukrainian NGOs and aid initiatives providing life-saving and other critical humanitarian work on the front lines of Russia's war on Ukraine. They have the proximity, local knowledge and access to assist those in desperate need. MEDIA CONTACT Email: [email protected] Phone: 412-334-7555 SOURCE Vovk Foundation V&V Supremo's complete list of blue ribbon-winning products for 2024 includes: Queso Blanco Perfect Score Selected for Governor's Sale of Champions Chihuahua Brand Cheese Browntown, WI Plant Perfect Score Brand Cheese Browntown, WI Plant Perfect Score Chihuahua Brand Cheese Arena, WI Plant Plant Chihuahua Brand Cheese with Jalapeno Peppers Brand Cheese with Jalapeno Peppers Crema Supremo Mexican Style Sour Cream Mexican Style Sour Cream Queso Fresco Oaxaca "We had another great year at the Illinois State Fair Dairy Products Contest and are thrilled that all our entries received top honors," said Gilberto Villasenor II, Chief Visionary Officer of V&V Supremo Foods, Inc. "These awards are a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of our team, who work tirelessly to produce the highest quality dairy products for our customers." The Illinois State Fair Dairy Products competition is a celebrated event that has been running for over a century, showcasing the finest dairy products and the skills of their producers. With hundreds of vendors participating each year, winning a blue ribbon at this competition is regarded as a significant achievement in the industry. For more information about V&V Supremo Foods, Inc. and its award-winning products, please visit www.vvsupremo.com. About V&V Supremo Foods, Inc. V&V Supremo is an award-winning producer of authentic Mexican cheeses, creams, and chorizo, and the maker of Chihuahua Brand quesadilla cheese. The company was founded in 1964 by Mexico natives Gilberto Villasenor, Sr. and Ignacio Villasenor. It is now the nation's oldest family-owned and operated Hispanic cheese company. V&V Supremo serves both the retail and food service industries. To learn more about V&V Supremo Foods, Inc. visit www.vvsupremo.com V&V Supremo Foods on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Vvsupremo V&V Supremo Foods on Instagram and TikTok: @Vvsupremo V&V Supremo Foods on YouTube: www.youtube.com/vvsupremo For media inquiries, please contact: Media Relations [email protected] 312.224.2820 SOURCE V & V Supremo Foods, Inc. WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+ Newsrooms & Influencers 9k+ Digital Media Outlets 270k+ Journalists Opted In GET STARTED NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Wolf Haldenstein Adler Freeman & Herz LLP ("Wolf Haldenstein"), a preeminent national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors in MediaAlpha, Inc. (NYSE: MAX) ("MediaAlpha" or the "Company") The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or did not disclose information pertinent to investors. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO PROVIDE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION MediaAlpha aims to help insurance carriers and distributors target and acquire customers more efficiently and at greater scale through technology and data science. The Company's technology platform brings leading insurance carriers and high-intent customers together through a real-time, programmatic, transparent and results-driven ecosystem. On June 24, 2024, Wolfpack Research published a report on MediaAlpha, which alleges that the Company https://www.whafh.com/united-of-omaha-d-b-a-mutual-of-omaha-data-breach-investigation/ "uses dishonest and sometimes outright fraudulent ads along with deceptive websites to trick consumers into providing their personal information in exchange for a health insurance 'quote.'" Wolfpack Research then alleges that it "sells this information as raw lead data or uses it to generate clicks or calls for its lead-buying partners" and that "as much as 78% of [MediaAlpha's] Health lead-buying partners are running boiler room health insurance scams or are flagrantly violating laws concerning telemarketing." Wolfpack Research also asserts that the Company's Health segment is part of an ongoing Federal Trade Commission investigation. On this news, the Company's stock price declined from a close of $16.21 per share on June 21, 2024, down to a closing price of $13.08 per share on June 26, 2024. Wolf Haldenstein Adler Freeman & Herz LLP has experience in the prosecution of securities class actions and derivative litigation in state and federal trial and appellate courts across the country. The firm has attorneys in various practice areas, and offices in New York, Chicago, Nashville, and San Diego. The reputation and expertise of this firm in shareholder and other class litigation has been repeatedly lauded by the courts, which have appointed it to major positions in complex securities, multi-district and consolidated litigation. If you wish to discuss this action or have any questions regarding your rights and interests in this case, please immediately contact Wolf Haldenstein by telephone at (800) 575-0735 or via e-mail at [email protected]. Contact: Wolf Haldenstein Adler Freeman & Herz LLP Gregory Stone, Director of Case and Financial Analysis Email: [email protected] or [email protected] Tel: (800) 575-0735 or (212) 545-4774 This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. SOURCE Wolf Haldenstein Adler Freeman & Herz LLP President Salome Zourabichvili has publicly called for Bidzina Ivanishvili, former Prime Minister of Georgia, to participate in a debate. The invitation came during a press conference held at the Orbeliani Palace courtyard.Zourabichvili emphasized the need for Ivanishvili to clarify his positions on critical issues facing the nation. She expressed her readiness to engage in a debate if Ivanishvili declines a personal meeting."No one has understood where he is, what he wants, why he wants it, and what he is doing to this country. I am personally ready and invite him to a debate. If he does not meet me personally, let him come to the debate," Zourabichvili said. She further questioned Ivanishvili's actions, particularly his decisions to dismiss and re-appoint a corrupt prime minister, urging him to clarify these actions in a public forum.Georgian Parliament Chairman Shalva Papuashvili has criticized the Danish embassy for not explaining why a poster of Mikheil Saakashvili, whom he described as the "creator of the human torture system," appeared at a Danish government-sponsored event. Papuashvili shared his concerns on social media, emphasizing the need for transparency.Papuashvili noted that the embassy is accountable to its own government, not to the Georgian people. He stressed that when foreign entities interfere in other countries' affairs, they should uphold ethical responsibilities and be accountable.He also highlighted the increasing demand from Georgians for transparency regarding foreign finances and interests influencing their lives. "No one should be surprised when the Georgian people, now by law, demand transparency of the finances and interests that influence their lives. It's as if it's elementary," he wrote. If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here Tehran, Aug 6 : Iran has vowed to take "decisive" action against the "aggressor" behind the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, accusing Israel of carrying out a "cowardly" attack. Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said on Monday that the killing of Haniyeh, who was in Iran for the swearing-in of President Masoud Pezeshkian, was a "flagrant violation" of international law, Xinhua news agency reported. Iran will take its serious and deterrent action with "strength and decisiveness" to punish the "aggressor" based on its inherent right and the international law principles, Kanaani said at a weekly press conference. He added that Tehran would pursue the matter through the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, which will hold an emergency meeting of Foreign Ministers on Wednesday. Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has blamed Israel for the attack, vowing a "harsh and painful response". IRGC Chief Hossein Salami said on Monday that Israel would "understand its miscalculation" after Tehran retaliates. The assassination has significantly heightened tensions in the region. While Iran has insisted it does not seek escalation, it has made clear it will not tolerate attacks on its territory or its citizens. Moscow, Aug 6 : One man died and three other people were injured as a result of a drone attack on a bus in Russia's Belgorod region, local authorities said. A bus was attacked by a drone in the Krasnoyaruzhsky district in the Belgorod region, said Vyacheslav Gladkov, Governor of Belgorod, in a post on Monday on Telegram. He added that one man died from injuries before medical help arrived, Xinhua news agency reported. The injured were being transported to the district hospital, according to the Governor. Deoria : , Aug 6 (IANS) As many as 80 students from the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Ashram Method Inter College in Mehroona village here fell ill due to food poisoning experiencing stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhoea, officials said. The incident took place after the children had dinner on Sunday night, they said on Monday. District Magistrate Divya Mittal told the media that the students are in stable condition while an investigation into the incident is underway. According to an official statement released on Monday evening, some students at the government-run school were reported to have fallen ill due to food poisoning. Two students, Akash and Nitesh, are receiving treatment at Maharishi Devraha Baba Medical College. The remaining students received primary treatment from a team of doctors led by the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) at the school itself. All students are safe, and a medical team remains at the school as a precaution, the statement said. District Magistrate Mittal and Superintendent of Police Sankalp Sharma visited the medical college to check on the affected students. Mittal told reporters that the student's condition was stable and that action would be taken against those found responsible. In an official statement, Assistant Commissioner of Food Safety Vinay Kumar Sahay said that a team from the Food Safety and Drug Administration inspected the inter-college's kitchen and storage area. They collected seven samples, including prepared bread, lentils, vegetables, chilli powder, chickpeas, mustard oil, and mixed pickles. The samples were collected in the presence of the school's director, Rajkumar Gupta, and a notice regarding storage and kitchen deficiencies is being issued. The samples have been sent to a food laboratory for testing, and further action will be taken based on the results, Sahay added. Sources revealed that the government-run Ashram school has 326 enrolled students from classes six to 12. After dinner on Sunday night, some students began experiencing vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, dizziness, and chills. By Monday morning, the number of affected students had risen to around 80. The affected students were then taken to a hospital. Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vipin Kumar Dwivedi and Food Inspector Vipin Kumar Sahay arrived at the scene. Sahay noted that most of the students suffered from food poisoning, while some were affected by infectious diseases. The Health department team conducted an investigation and found that all students are now in stable condition. Washington, Aug 6 : US President Joe Biden has held crisis talks on a potential Iranian counterattack on Israel as his administration said it was working around the clock to avoid all-out war in the Middle East. Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaged in frantic diplomacy to try to ease tensions sparked by a suspected Israeli attack that killed Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, KLAX-TV reported. "We are engaged in intense diplomacy, pretty much around the clock, with a very simple message -- all parties must refrain from escalation," Blinken said after joining other top officials in a White House meeting. "It's also critical that we break this cycle by reaching a ceasefire in Gaza," Blinken added, who has also spoken since Sunday with G7 counterparts and Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al Sudani. President Biden called King Abdullah II of Jordan, who helped shoot down Iranian drones and missiles in an earlier showdown in April, while Blinken called top officials in Qatar and Egypt, the key intermediaries seeking a ceasefire in the 10-month Israel-Hamas war. On Monday, multiple US personnel were injured in a rocket attack on a base in Iraq, adding to the already heightened regional tensions. Biden had been hoping in his final months in office to end the Gaza war and work on clinching a landmark deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Instead, he has boosted the US military presence in the Middle East in a show of strength to Iran, KLAX-TV reported. After staunchly backing Israel's war against Hamas, Biden has made clear his frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the killing of Haniyeh, who was involved in the ceasefire negotiations. Blinken, who has warned that Iran could strike soon, made a new pitch for Biden's ceasefire plan that would freeze fighting in Gaza and return hostages seized in the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas. A ceasefire "will unlock possibilities for more enduring calm, not only in Gaza itself but in other areas where the conflict could spread," Blinken said as he met Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. In a veiled allusion to US frustrations, Blinken said, "What it really comes down to, really, is all parties finding ways to come to an agreement, not look for reasons to delay or to say no." New Delhi, Aug 6 : He shot with filmmaker Tarsem Singh for six months in Rajasthan, worked with Indian director Shekhar Kapoor in 'The Four Feathers' and will now soon be seen as the antagonist Lord Clement in Pa Ranjith's much-anticipated Tamil film 'Thangalaan', starring actor Vikram in the lead, and is set in 19th century in the Kolar gold mines discovered by the British. Daniel Caltagirone, however, assures that his portrayal of the British officer will not be cliched, as one witness in several Indian films. He told IANS, "That was my major concern when the director approached me. He assured me that I would be allowed to add layers to bring out something new to the character." The actor, who spent a year in India going through spring, summer, autumn and winter, is now said to have developed an unshakeable bond with the country. He recalled, "Yes, so I became acclimated to the madness of the weather. Of course, it was tough to work with the changing patterns of weather. However, now I am enjoying myself as the filming has concluded." Caltagirone has been part of major films like 'The Pianist', 'Legionnaire', 'The Fall' and 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider a" The Cradle of Life'. When asked about his experience working on an Indian film set, he smiled and said that on the first day, he was shocked to see so many people running around and much noise. "I seriously thought something was wrong. But very quickly realised that it was a controlled chaos. There was a style and methodology that was working for them. I quickly became acclimatised to it and started to kind of appreciate it because there was this 'anything is possible' feeling all around. In the West, things are more structured, but it can breed a bit of apathy and boredom," he shared. While Caltagirone's acting style is naturalistic, he admitted it took him a while to hit the mark and level the director wanted him to, who told him that his Western approach towards acting does not belong to the world of this film. He said, "It is a very heightened world and in this universe, it would not look like overacting." In two to three weeks, when the actor saw himself on the monitor and realised that Pa Ranjith was right. "Of course, I do not know how my Western colleagues will react. I think they are going to be like, what is going on?" he smiled. Admitting that it was one of the most difficult films he had done but an experience of a lifetime, Caltagirone, who was honoured with the Nations Award in Venice for Outstanding Contribution to Film (2021) and has worked across genres, confessed, "While drama offers multiple chances to prove your acting prowess and range, it is a comedy that I prefer most." The actor, who attended the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama (England) and spent a season at the Royal Shakespeare Company, stressed that his training in theatre has been instrumental in shaping him as an actor. "Some of the finest screen actors boast of a theatre background," he concluded. Kiev, Aug 6 : Kiev, the Ukrainian capital, was hit by a wave of explosions after an air raid alert, media reported. The Ukrainian Air Force said on Monday that high-speed targets were heading towards the Kiev region amid a threat of ballistic missile attacks, Xinhua news agency reported. Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko wrote on social media that air defence was operating in the capital. Jammu, Aug 6 : Amarnath Yatra resumed on Tuesday after a day's suspension as another batch of 1,873 Yatris left Jammu for the North Kashmir Baltal base camp. Officials of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB, which manages the affairs of the Yatra, said that since the day the pilgrimage started on June 29 this year, around five lakh devotees had 'darshan' inside the holy cave shrine. "No Yatri convoy is going to the South Kashmir Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp today. Only one escorted convoy of 69 vehicles carrying 1,873 Yatris left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu at 3.25 a.m. for the North Kashmir Baltal base camp. No Yatri is going to Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp today. Now only the 'Chhari Mubarak' (Lord Shiva's Mace) will be carried through the traditional Pahalgam route to the cave shrine. The Chhari Mubarak will leave Pahalgam for the cave shrine on August 14," the officials said. The large number of security forces, including police and CAPFs, have been doing round-the-clock duties all along the over 350-long route from Jammu to the two base camps to secure the pilgrims' passage. In addition to this, security forces are deployed in sufficient numbers at the transit camps, base camps and at the cave shrine for the safety of the Yatris. Locals are not far behind in ensuring that the Yatris are assisted to perform the mountainous journey with ease. Locals provide ponies and also work as porters for the pilgrims often carrying the weak and infirm devotees on their backs to and from the cave shrine. Officials of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) headed by Lt. Governor, Manoj Sinha have been managing the affairs of the Yatra with professional competence. All this together, has ensured this year's safe, smooth and hassle-free pilgrimage to the cave shrine through some of the most rugged and treacherous mountain terrain in the Himalayas, said the officials. The cave shrine houses an ice stalagmite structure that wanes and waxes with the phases of the moon. Devotees believe that this ice stalagmite structure symbolises the mythical powers of Lord Shiva. The cave is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres above sea level in the Kashmir Himalayas. Devotees approach the cave shrine either from the traditional South Kashmir Pahalgam route or the North Kashmir Baltal route. The Pahalgam-Cave shrine axis is 48 Km long and takes Yatris 4-5 days to reach the shrine. The Baltal-Cave shrine axis is 14 Km long and takes one day for the pilgrims to have 'Darshan' and return to the base camp. Helicopter services are also available for the pilgrims both at Baltal on the North Kashmir route and at Chandanwari on the South Kashmir route. This year's Yatra will conclude after 52 days on August 19 coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan festivals. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed London, Aug 6 : The UK government called for a United Nations-led probe into the unrest that led to the resignation of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the UK wants to see a "peaceful and democratic future" for the South Asian country as Hasina resigned and fled Bangladesh on Monday. However, there was no mention of the asylum for Hasina, which the former Bangladeshi Prime Minister is seeking. "The last two weeks in Bangladesh have seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life... All sides must work together to restore calm under a transitional government," David Lammy said in a statement on Monday. "The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past few weeks," the UK Foreign Secretary said, adding that his country wants to "see action taken to ensure Bangladesh a peaceful and democratic future." "The UK and Bangladesh have deep people-to-people links and shared Commonwealth values," he added. Notably, India will offer comprehensive logistical support as Hasina pursues asylum in the UK. Her stay in India is approved only temporarily, pending her relocation to the UK. On Monday, Hasina landed at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad, hours after resigning from the post, as thousands of protesters stormed and vandalised 'Ganabhaban' - the official residence of the Prime Minister in Dhaka. It was reported that over 100 people were killed and more than 1,000 injured in the clashes that took place between police and the protesters on Sunday. The student-led non-cooperation movement put immense pressure on Hasina's government over the past few weeks. The students had been protesting against a 30 per cent reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters who wrested independence for Bangladesh from Pakistan in a bloody civil war in 1971 in which, according to Dhaka officials, three million people were killed in the genocide by Pakistani troops and their supporters. New Delhi, Aug 6 : Congress MP Manish Tewari gave notice of an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday to discuss the situation in Bangladesh and its implications on India. "I hereby give notice of my intention to ask for leave to move a motion for the adjournment of the business of the house for the purpose of discussing a definite matter of urgent importance, namely: That this House do suspend Zero Hour and relevant rules relating to Question Hour and other businesses of the day to have a discussion on the political crisis in Bangladesh and its implications for India," said Tewari in the notice. "Recent events in Bangladesh have seen Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resign and leave the country due to the unrest. This situation has potential consequences for India's strategic interests. I urge the Government to inform the House about the steps being taken to address the potential security, economic, and diplomatic repercussions of this situation. I request permission to raise this matter," the Congress MPO further said in the notice. With the situation in Bangladesh worsening, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar chaired an all-party meeting to discuss the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government and the Army's takeover amid violent protests. Jaishankar briefed the leaders of all parties about the situation and the steps being taken by the Indian government. Besides EAM Jaishankar, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju also attended the meeting. Sheikh Hasina, who resigned on Monday following unprecedented anti-government protests, had to flee her country and is seeking asylum in the UK. Currently, she is staying in Delhi. Over 100 people were killed in Bangladesh in the past two days during unrest, as per reports. Kolkata, Aug 6 : The Border Security Force (BSF) has been put on high alert along the India-Bangladesh international borders in West Bengal given the crisis in the neighbouring country. The newly-appointed Director General (DG) of BSF, Daljit Singh Chaudhury, who had already reached Kolkata on Monday, has reviewed the situation and spoken to the top officials of the force in its Eastern Command. The DG of the central force is slated to visit the Benapole-Petrapole India Bangladesh India-Bangladesh International Border in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. This is the second day of Chaudhury's visit to the state. Sources said that he might also visit other sensitive border areas with Bangladesh in West Bengal. The DG has already visited the floating border outposts in the Sunderbans areas scattered over the South 24 Parganas and North 24 Parganas districts. It is learnt that Chaudhury has emphasized more on ensuring absolute security and sealing the borders with Bangladesh to prevent any kind of illegal infiltration attempt to take advantage of the Bangladesh crisis. He has specially emphasized enhanced security arrangements at the floating border outposts and deployment of additional security personnel at the sensitive border points through which chances of illegal infiltration are more. He has also emphasized enhanced night patrolling and monitoring through extensive use of close-circuit television sets and night vision cameras, considering the chances of illegal infiltration will be higher during the night hours than in broad daylight. The focus, according to sources, is more on the South Bengal Frontier considering the areas covering porous and sensitive border points are more in that area. Meanwhile, West Bengal Police have issued an advisory cautioning the public about refraining from making any controversial posts on the emerging crisis in Bangladesh. "Given the current situation in neighbouring Bangladesh, we have noticed a few posts and videos on social media that may create discord and unrest. Please do not pay attention to rumours, do not share provocative videos, do not step into a fake news trap. The state administration is alert and vigilant. Keep calm and maintain peace," the advisory issued by West Bengal Police read. The caution from the state police came in wake of the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee having issued a public appeal through the media requesting common people to refrain from getting trapped in any kind of provocation on the Bangladesh issue. Meanwhile, sources from the state secretariat said that while the security arrangements at the state's borders with Bangladesh mainly rest with the Border Security Force (BSF), the police stations in the bordering areas have also been asked to be on high alert following the evolving situation in that country. The Idaho Department of Education has accepted the first batch of plans from school districts across the state, clearing the way for them to receive new school facilities funding. Lapwai School District was one of the first two districts to have its 10-year facilities plans accepted by the state in a new process that is the result of the centerpiece school facilities bill from the 2024 legislative session. We were ready to submit prior to the tool being open, Lapwai School District Superintendent David Aiken told the Idaho Press. The plan was approved in late July along with the plan for the Sugar-Salem School District in east Idaho. Lapwai, in Nez Perce County near Lewiston, is expected to receive a total of nearly $1.9 million to be used over 10 years. The state used sales tax revenue to go out for a bond in order to make $1 billion available to districts over 10 years. Districts had the option to receive a lump sum payment or annual payments over the decade, but most districts opted for the lump sum option, Idaho Education News reported. All of Idahos school districts face steep challenges when it comes to maintaining and upgrading facilities, with an estimated statewide maintenance backlog of nearly $900 million. Each of these needs are driven by different factors such as growth or an inability to pass levies and bonds. Lapwai is unique in that it is not growing or shrinking its population has had just modest growth over the past 10 years and it cannot rely much on levies and bonds, because it lies on an Indian reservation and much of the land is tax-exempt. For the eight districts in Idaho that either are on reservation land or a military base, the federal government provides impact aid funding. In the past, Lapwai has tried for operating levies; the last attempt was in 2014, which resulted in a voter rejection and the district shifting to online P.E. classes because there wasnt enough money for a gym teacher, the Lewiston Tribune reported. About 31% of Lapwai School Districts budget comes from federal impact aid, but much of that money goes toward personnel, leaving little left for facility maintenance. The funding is also inconsistent because it relies on annual congressional approval, said Aiken, who also serves as the Idaho State Chairperson of the National Association of Federally Impacted Schools. Some of the needs listed in our 10-year plan have been on our wish list the entire time Ive been a superintendent, so approximately 15 years, Aiken said. One of the top priorities will be a new HVAC system for the elementary school, he said. Lapwai Elementary School was built in the 1980s, and the hope is to upgrade and modernize much of its infrastructure. Weve never had adequate cooling in our gymnasium at the elementary school, he said. In the summer, the aging air conditioning system struggles to keep up and frequently requires fixing. Aiken is hoping that updating the system will reduce some of these maintenance costs in the future. The plan calls for spending $442,000 in fiscal year 2025, $167,000 in fiscal year 2026 and $150,000 in 2027 on HVAC, according to the plan. Mumbai, Aug 6 : Indian actress Mallika Sherawat was missing Los Angeles as she returned home from her holiday in Paris. Mallika took to Instagram, where she shared a video of herself opening her backyard door, and cuddling her pet dog, a Labrador Retriever. "Feels great to be back home, Los Angeles I have missed you," she wrote as the caption. The actress last month shared a video of herself enjoying herself in the ocean in a teeny-weeny bikini. "I love playing with the ocean waves, the wild rhythm of the sea evokes a sense of boundless freedom," she had captioned the post. She then shared a video montage of herself posing on a motorbike. "I may not know how to ride a motorbike but I sure know how to pose with it," she had written. Tagged as one of the most bold actresses in Hindi cinema in the 2000s, Mallika made her debut in films with a small role in the 2002 film "Jeena Sirf Merre Liye", where she was credited as Reema Lamba. Her performance in "Murder" starring Emraan Hashmi, which was released in 2004, popped eyeballs. She gained international acclaim with her work in movies such as 'Hisss' and 'Politics of Love'. She has also worked in films such as "Khwahish", "Bachke Rehna Re Baba", "Pyaar Ke Side Effects", "Aap Ka Suroor - The Real Love Story", "Welcome" and "Kis Kis Ki Kismat" among many others. On the work front, Mallika was last seen in 'RK/RKay', a comedy-drama by Rajat Kapoor. The film also features Ranvir Shorey, Manu Rishi Chadha, and Kubbra Sait. Mumbai, Aug 6 : Bollywood superstar Ajay Devgn, recently seen in 'Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha', has begun shooting for his upcoming movie 'Son of Sardaar 2'. On Tuesday, Ajay took to Instagram and shared a video announcing the start of filming for the sequel to the 2012 film. The movie is reportedly being shot in Scotland. The video captures moments from the set, featuring a jimmy jib, vibrant Holi shots, clips of dance sequences, Ajay's son Yug, and the superstar visiting a Gurudwara. Ajay wrote in the caption: "The journey of #SonOfSardaar2 begins with prayers, blessings, and an amazing team." 'Son of Sardaar 2' picks up where its predecessor ended. Directed by Ashwni Dhir, the original 'Son of Sardaar' was a remake of the S. S. Rajamouli film 'Maryada Ramanna'. It followed the rivalry between the Sandhu and Randhawa families and starred Sanjay Dutt, Sonakshi Sinha, and Juhi Chawla. The sequel, 'Son of Sardaar 2', is directed by Vijay Kumar Arora and features several actors in cameo roles. However, according to media reports, Sanjay Dutt, who originally played the antagonist, has been replaced by actor-politician Ravi Kishan due to Sanjay's UK visa application being rejected because of his past incarceration. The announcement of 'Son of Sardaar 2' comes after the poor box-office performance of 'Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha', which marked the lowest opening for Ajay Devgn in a decade, earning only Rs. 7.75 crore in four days, according to an industry tracker, Sacnilk. Meanwhile, Ajay also has the highly anticipated 'Singham Again' in the pipeline. Rohit Shetty, who is the director of the film, had earlier told IANS that the film is currently in the post-production stage. New Delhi, Aug 6 : External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar met with a delegation of Tamil fishermen along with BJP Tamil Nadu President K Annamalai and other leaders on Monday to advocate for a permanent resolution to the longstanding crisis affecting the fishing community in the high seas bordering Sri Lanka. Announcing the meeting on X, EAM Jaishankar stated, "Met with a delegation of Tamil fishermen leaders yesterday along with @BJP4TamilNadu President @annamalai_k. They conveyed their various grievances and concerns. Government of India attaches priority to the livelihood, welfare, and security of Indian fishermen." "Assured that their issues will be approached in a sustainable and sympathetic manner", he added. Secretaries of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Fisheries Ministry were also present along with the EAM in the meeting. Thanking the EAM, Annamalai posted on X, "We thank our Hon EAM and the officials for being empathetic to the concerns raised by our brothers from the fishing community and for assuring us of all the necessary support and action for a better way forward." The representatives from the Mechanised Fishing Boats Association requested the MEA's kind intervention on the non-recurrence of events similar to the recent incident on the high seas that led to the death of one fisherman, and one fisherman going missing, informed Annamalai. During the meeting the formation of a Joint Working Group (JWG), comprising of officials from the foreign ministries and fisheries department of India and Sri Lanka was also discussed. "The JWG has met five times since its formation in 2016. The recent incidents will be highlighted in the upcoming JWG, and a solution is expected to be arrived," Annamalai posted regarding the discussions in the meeting. The delegation also put forward the request to cover fishermen under insurance that will compensate their families in the event of loss of life due to health ailments and accidents. "The Secretary from the Ministry of Fisheries mentioned the availability of the Group Insurance Accident Scheme by GoI, which offered compensation varying from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, and assured that the insurance claims for non-accident cases also should be looked into in the future", stated Annamalai on X. During the meeting the representatives thanked the Central Government's efforts for enabling the immediate return of the remains of one fisherman who lost his life and sought the early release of the fishermen languishing in Sri Lankan prisons. "Our Hon EAM stressed that there have been zero incidents of shooting of our fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy in the last 10 years. There has been a constant effort to ensure that our fishermen are brought back to our homeland from Sri Lankan prisons in record time" said Annamalai quoting the EAM. In 2024, out of 273 fishermen detained, 204 have been brought back to India. Of the remaining 69 fishermen, 8 have received prison sentences and 61 are in judicial custody. Bengaluru, Aug 6 : All eyes in Karnataka are on Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot's move regarding a petition seeking consent for prosecution of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in connection with the irregularities in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). Bengaluru, Aug 6 (IANS) All eyes in Karnataka are on Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlotas move regarding a petition seeking consent for prosecution of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in connection with the irregularities in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). Given the intense political activity surrounding this development, sources confirmed that the stage is set for potential strife between the Governoras office and the Karnataka government. The issue came to the forefront after Governor Gehlot returned from New Delhi to the state capital, Bengaluru. He will now have to make a decision on a petition filed by social activist TJ Abraham. The Council of Ministers has advised him to withdraw the petition against CM Siddaramaiah and reject Abrahamas complaint. Sources indicate that CM Siddaramaiah will receive another notice from the Governor seeking his explanation. Should the Governor grant consent for prosecution, it has been decided to challenge this decision in court and take the fight to the Supreme Court if needed. The Congress high command has also decided to launch a national agitation, alleging highhandedness by the Raj Bhavan and the Centre. Sources have further confirmed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has obtained all relevant information about the MUDA case from state leaders, including former Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai. Senior officers in central Intelligence agencies are also gathering information on the matter. Considering the complexities and potential ramifications, the BJP is making strategic moves. The Governor is contemplating various actions against CM Siddaramaiah, including the possibility of handing over the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or establishing a judicial commission headed by a serving justice of the High Court. Currently, the Karnataka government has formed a one-man panel of retired High Court Justice, PN Desai to investigate the issue. A decision by the Governor is expected after August 12, once the Parliament session concludes. This timing is intended to prevent the Opposition from creating a disturbance in Parliament. Meanwhile, the BJPas padyatra demanding CM Siddaramaiahas resignation over the issue has entered its fourth day in the state. The BJP is confident of obtaining CM Siddaramaiahas resignation. Congress sources indicate that the high command, particularly Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, supports CM Siddaramaiah and has given the state leadership the freedom to address the issue both legally and politically. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has challenged the Opposition that they canat touch CM Siddaramaiah and also stated that Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy is hatching a conspiracy to send him to jail. On the other hand, state BJP President, BY Vijayendra and Kumaraswamy maintain that all documents pertaining to MUDA were released by Dy CM Shivakumar, who is next in line for the post of the CM and he is enacting a drama in front of people and the media. New Delhi, Aug 6 : Female patients are consistently less likely to receive pain medication prescriptions compared to male patients with similar complaints, a new study reveals. The study, led by Professor Shoham Choshen-Hillel and Mika Guzikevits from the Hebrew University, has uncovered a concerning sex bias in pain management decisions at emergency rooms. The research showed that female patients are prescribed fewer pain relief medications than male patients, even after considering variables such as pain levels, age, medical history, and complaint type. This suggests a systemic issue where women's pain is not taken as seriously or treated as aggressively as men's pain. By analysing electronic health records from American and Israeli healthcare systems, the researchers found that female patients discharged from the emergency department are less likely to receive treatment for pain complaints compared to male patients. Specifically, datasets from emergency departments with discharge notes, revealed that female patients are less likely to receive a prescription for any type of analgesic medication, including opioids and non-opioids, compared to male patients. Female patients with pain complaints are less likely to receive analgesics for every pain score and age group and receive fewer analgesics from both male and female physicians. Additionally, female patients stay an additional 30 minutes at the emergency department, and their pain score is 10 per cent less likely to be recorded by triage nurses. In a controlled experiment involving 109 nurses, pain was rated as less intense if the patient was said to be female rather than male, suggesting that the bias is driven by gender stereotypes. "Our research reveals a troubling bias in how women's pain is perceived and treated in emergency care settings," said Prof. Choshen-Hillel. "This under-treatment of female patients' pain could have serious implications for women's health outcomes, potentially leading to longer recovery times, complications, or chronic pain conditions." Ulaanbaatar, Aug 6 : Two people were killed and one injured due to a lightning strike in Mongolia, the country's National Emergency Agency (NEMA) reported on Tuesday. On Monday, the NEMA received a report that two 17-year-old boys lost their lives and a 25-year-old man was injured in a lightning strike while herding livestock in Myangad soum (administrative subdivision) of Khovd province, Xinhua news agency reported. The injured individual is currently in critical condition at a local hospital. The emergency agency urged the public, particularly nomadic herders, to exercise heightened caution against potential risks, as thunderstorms are forecasted in certain parts of the country in the coming days. New Delhi, Aug 6 : The Centre on Tuesday urged the Supreme Court to adjudicate on priority as to whether a minor Muslim girl can marry a person of her choice after attaining puberty. Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, the second highest law officer of the Centre, mentioned before CJI D.Y. Chandrachud a plea filed by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) against the Punjab and Haryana High Court order, which had held that a Muslim girl can marry a person of her choice after attaining the age of 15. SG Mehta submitted that diverse views were being taken by different High Courts across the country, resulting in the filing of multiple special leave petitions before the apex court around the same issue. "Please see if this can be listed on priority," he said. At this, CJI Chandrachud assured SG Mehta that he would direct the listing of the batch of petitions. In January last year, the top court issued notice to the government and others on NCPCR's plea to decide upon the question of law, clarifying that its decision not to stay the impugned order of the Punjab and Haryana High Court may not be used as precedent. It appointed senior advocate Rajshekhar Rao as amicus curiae in the matter to assist the court The SC pointed out that if the high court judgment -- which held that a Muslim girl aged 15 years can enter into a legal and valid marriage as per personal law -- was stayed, the girl might be restored to her parents against her wishes. Before the apex court, SG Mehta had contended that Muslim girls who were 14, 15, and 16 years old were getting married. "Can there be a defence of personal law? Can you plead custom or personal law as a defence against a criminal offence?" he said. The plea filed by NCPCR said the Punjab and Haryana HC erred in ignoring the fact that sexual intercourse with a minor girl below the age of 18 years, is sexual assault as per the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and this legal position cannot be changed due to marital status of the child and that whether on the facts and in the circumstances of the case and in law. It added, "The high court was justified in upholding that a minor girl, after attaining puberty after the age of 15, on her own willingness and consent, can enter into a marriage of her own choice while not considering the validity of a marriage with a minor all the while glossing over the fact that the impugned judgment would lead to endorsing child marriage which is illegal in India because POCSO Act applies to everyone." The high court's order came on a habeas corpus petition filed by a 26-year-old man against the detention of his 16-year-old wife in a children's home in Panchkula. The high court noted that such a marriage would not be void in terms of Section 12 of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2006. Seoul, Aug 6 : South Korea's top military officer on Tuesday called for 'stern' action in the event of a North Korean provocation as he visited a command overseeing Border Island units in the Yellow Sea, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said. JCS Chairman Adm. Kim Myung-soo renewed the call at the North West Islands Defence Command in Hwaseong, 45 kilometers south of Seoul, citing increasing North Korean threats, according to his office, Yonhap news agency reported. The visit came two days after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un attended a ceremony commemorating the transfer of 250 tactical ballistic missile launchers to frontline military units. "As a military that takes bold and stern action, (we) must instill fear in the enemy and trust in the people," Kim said, according to a release. The North West Islands Defense Command is in charge of operations of troops stationed on the border islands near the Northern Limit Line (NLL) in the Yellow Sea. Marine Corps Commandant Lt. Gen. Kim Kye-hwan doubles as the command's head. Waters near the NLL have been a flashpoint between the two Koreas, where three bloody naval skirmishes took place in 1999, 2002 and 2009. In March 2010, Pyongyang torpedoed a South Korean warship near the NLL, killing 46 sailors. The North also bombarded the border island of Yeonpyeong in November that year, killing two Marines and two civilians. Hyderabad, Aug 6 : Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K. T. Rama Rao on Tuesday voiced concern over the "alarming" decline in Telangana's Information Technology exports. The former IT and Industry minister urged the Congress government to prioritise IT and ITES sector and ensure policy continuity. In his post on 'X', Rama Rao mentioned that the state had a great run in terms of growth of IT jobs created and IT exports over the last 6-7 years. "Had a chance to look at the latest trends released by the govt. The alarming decline in Telangana's IT exports is a matter of serious concern. Even more concerning is the fact that new IT jobs created in Telangana have fallen to one-third of the 2022-23 numbers," he posted. KTR, as the BRS leader is popularly known, pointed out that IT exports during 2022-23 grew by Rs 57,706 crore while the growth was only Rs 26,948 crore during 2023-24. Similarly, 1,27,594 jobs were created in 2022-23 while only 40,285 new jobs were created in 2023-24. Stating that the IT sector is a crucial engine that fuels the growth of Hyderabad city and Telangana State, KTR claimed that during the tenure of BRS, this sector witnessed unprecedented growth, thanks to several path-breaking policies and the TSiPASS single-window initiative. "I urge the Congress government to prioritise the IT & ITES sector and ensure policy continuity. Existing investors need to be supported, and new investments must be attracted. Young entrepreneurs and startups must be supported by all means. Incessant Infrastructure upgradation and strict maintenance of law and order play an important role in sustaining the growth of the IT sector in the state. The Congress government needs to focus on these two areas, which seem to have taken a back seat since they assumed office," he said. On Saturday, State IT Minister Sridhar Babu said that in a year that witnessed a slowdown in overall growth in the Indian IT/ITES sector, Telangana stood out with 11.3 per cent growth. "For the year ending March 31, 2024, Telangana's total IT sector exports reached Rs 2,68,233 crore, reflecting an 11.2 per cent increase from the previous year. This growth rate significantly outpaces the national average growth of 3.3 per cent. By the end of June 2024, the state's IT exports increased further to Rs 2,69,958 crore," he said. "The sector now supports approximately 9,46,285 IT professionals, with a net addition of 40,570 jobs in FY24, representing a 4.5 per cent increase in employment," the minister added. Mumbai, Aug 6 : The stock of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company Marico Ltd slumped nearly 5 per cent on Tuesday amid the political unrest in Bangladesh as the neighbouring country contributes almost 11 per cent of its consolidated business. The company's stock was trading around Rs 640 a piece (down 4.9 per cent) during the day trading. Marico Bangladesh Ltd clicked Rs 1,103 crore in revenue in the last fiscal (FY24), making up 11 per cent of Marico's consolidated revenue. For international business on a standalone basis, Bangladesh contributes around 44 per cent of the total revenue. Marico's net profit in the April-June quarter went up 8.7 per cent (year-on-year) to Rs 474 crore. The shares have gone up 12.89 per cent in the last 12 months and 17.78 per cent on a year-to-date (YTD) basis. In its April-June quarter result, the company said it aims to bring down the contribution from Bangladesh to less than 40 per cent by the end of fiscal 2027. In Q1 FY25, Bangladesh registered 10 per cent CCG (constant currency growth) as the business stayed resilient and sustained its momentum for Marico. The company said that the international business has grown from strength to strength in the face of transient macroeconomic and currency devaluation headwinds in select regions. "While Bangladesh and Vietnam have led from the front, the strong growth momentum in the MENA and South Africa businesses has visibly strengthened the broad-based construct and offers margin upside over the medium term," Marico said in its quarterly results. This resulted in visible geographical diversification in the overall international business, reflecting in the reducing revenue dependence on Bangladesh business. The company said it will aim to maintain the double-digit constant currency growth momentum over the medium term. The FMCG volume trends in India continued to exhibit gradual improvement on a 2-year CAGR basis, with the trajectory in rural areas bearing more promise, while urban was stable. MOSCOW The Moscow City Council passed the citys $133 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year Monday, and it includes increases in city rates. Moscow planned the budget while still dealing with the aftermath of a 2023 Idaho Supreme Court decision on Bradbury v. City of Lewiston that reduces revenues to the citys street and general funds. The case stems from a lawsuit filed by former Lewiston City Councilor John Bradbury against Lewiston. He argued the city had been collecting excessive utility fees and improperly spending municipal funds. As a result, City Supervisor Bill Belknap said Monday, virtually every proposed department budget for Fiscal Year 2025 is lower than the current fiscal year. The city will eliminate the same six unfilled city positions it eliminated last year, These include two patrol officers in the Moscow Police Department, a communications manager, an accountant, an arts assistant and a parks administrative assistant. The budget includes a 3% increase in the property tax levy, a 4% increase in the water rate, a 2.25% increase in the sewer rate and a 3% increase in the stormwater rate. The citys priorities this year include budgeting $80,000 to start designing an alternative water source for the Palouse, jointly funding three paid paramedics in the Moscow Volunteer Fire Department and upgrading Moscows aging city shop facility. The budget also includes a 4% cost of living adjustment for city employees. The City Council on Monday also approved a one-year licensing agreement with a company to bring shared-use electric scooters to the city. The agreement with Spin allows for up to 150 scooters to be deployed in Moscow. It includes rules that are laid out in the city ordinance regarding such devices. Moscow is not being charged for the scooters. Instead, Spin will pay the city a fee to deploy the devices, Belknap said. The scooters would be prohibited from being used on the sidewalks along Main Street and the downtown alleys in Moscow, but can be used on the street. They can be used on the sidewalk in other parts of the city, but only as fast as 10 mph. They can travel at 15 mph on pathways and 9 mph on the UI campus. Moscow, Aug 6 : The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation has expressed concern about the recent turmoil in Bangladesh, saying that it looks forward to the internal political processes in Bangladesh returning to the Constitutional norms as soon as possible. Moscow operates on the premise that changes in the Bangladeshi government constitute an internal affair of that country, said the ministry. "According to our Embassy in Dhaka, no injuries to Russian citizens were reported", the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Monday. On August 5, Bangladeshi media reported the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her cabinet, which was preceded by mass protest rallies whose participants demanded to bring to justice the officials responsible for deadly anti-government student protests in July. Weeks of unrest in Bangladesh over a quota-related issue took an unprecedented turn on Monday with protesters running amok on the streets of Dhaka, vandalising properties and disfiguring the statue of 'Father of Nation' Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. This unrest compelled Sheikh Hasina to step down as Prime Minister and flee the country. The situation in the country is controlled by the Bangladeshi Army. A transitional government is expected to be formed soon. Earlier, several reports indicated that Hasina left for a "safer place" after hundreds of protestors entered Gonobhaban - the official residence of the Prime Minister in Dhaka. The Indian government has granted Sheikh Hasina an interim stay following the collapse of her government on Monday, media reports said. During this period, India will offer comprehensive logistical support as Hasina pursues asylum in the UK, Daily Sun reported. Her stay in India is approved only temporarily, pending her relocation to UK. Hasina is on her way to London through India. As of now, there has been no confirmation from the UK government regarding the grant of political asylum for the former Bangladesh Prime Minister, Daily Sun reported. Moscow, Aug 6 : Russian Ambassador to Japan Nikolay Nozdrev said that the US-Japan alliance is posing a nuclear threat to Japan's regional neighbours. During an interview with Russia's TASS News Agency, Nozdrev noted that Washington and Tokyo are rapidly strengthening the military component of their alliance, including the ongoing formation of deeply integrated command structures, the enhancement of Japan's Self-Defence Forces' strike capabilities, and the merging of the defence industries of the two countries, Xinhua news agency reported. According to Nozdrev, recent discussions among allies about the expanded role of deterrence, which includes the use of nuclear weapons in joint operations, are strongly supported by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's administration. Nozdrev said these actions are "particularly cynical" given the approaching anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He criticised Japan's leadership for not only ignoring the fact that the United States conducted these lethal bombings but also for showing a willingness to collaborate with the United States on nuclear planning. The comments follow a joint statement issued last month between US and Japanese officials in Tokyo. The statement marks the first time that the United States has documented its commitment to defend Japan against potential external threats using methods that include nuclear weapons. US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasised the "unwavering commitment" of the United States to Japan's defence, including the use of extended deterrence involving both conventional and nuclear arms. Mumbai, Aug 6 : Actor Prince Dhiman, who plays the role of Dharam in 'Pyaar Ka Pehla Adhyaya: Shiv Shakti', has expressed his sadness over the show going off-air, sharing that he is going to miss it a lot. Prince revealed that he thoroughly enjoyed portraying Dharam. "While playing a character, you also get a chance to discover yourself, and I enjoyed being Dharam. God knows I am going to miss him. For me, Dharam was the most lovely, childlike, and pure-hearted character. He was full of love," he said. "His journey started with that one slap he got from Koyal ji (Aditi). Then falling in love, impressing her, and finally getting married. It was an awesome experience. Dharam was called Pehelwan Bhuddi, but after marriage, he became more responsible and smart. Although it came to an abrupt end, Dharam became a part of me," he further added. Recalling his favourite scene from the show, Prince commented: "There was one phone call between Dharam and Koyal where he messaged her in his pursuit of impressing her. That will always be special for me, as it was the first scene where we could really see who Dharam was -- lovely and carefree." Prince also shared that working with Studio LSD was an amazing experience. "Each and every day on set was so calm and peaceful. This working environment is rare to find on TV. There was no stress. I used to enjoy shooting every scene because everyone around me was so helpful. It was amazing," he said. The actor is especially going to miss his co-actor, Nimisha Vakharia, who played Manorama. "We did a lot of scenes together. She helped me grasp my character better. I am going to miss seeing her almost every day and our choti choti ladai and gossip sessions," he said. The actor is now looking for roles that challenge him. "Challenge me to become better and push the limits. Learning new experiences and being better for me -- that's the essence of life," he concluded. Produced by Prateek Sharma and Parth Shah's Studio LSD, the show stars Arjun Bijlani and Nikki Sharma in the lead roles. It airs on Zee TV. New Delhi, Aug 6 : Congress MP Manish Tewari on Tuesday raised concerns about the political instability in Bangladesh and questioned the Centre on the steps taken to maintain stability in South Asia. During a discussion on matters of urgent public importance in the Lok Sabha, Tewari highlighted India's "special relationship" with Bangladesh. He said, "...India has a special relationship with Bangladesh. In 1971, India played a significant role in the formation of Bangladesh, changing the geographical map of South Asia. The current situation in Bangladesh is a matter of concern." He highlighted the political developments in Bangladesh, stating, "In January 2024, under the leadership of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the Awami League formed the government for the fourth time. After almost six months, protests led to a situation where Sheikh Hasina had to resign and flee the country." Tewari also pointed out similar instances of political instability in other South Asian countries, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Pakistan, where military control is increasing over civil governments. "China's influence in the western Indian Ocean has also significantly increased. Since India is the most important nation in South Asia, instability in the region will directly affect India." The Congress MP also questioned the Centre government about the steps it has undertaken to "maintain political stability" in South Asia. The Bangladesh issue remained a key point of concern in the House. Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar chaired an all-party meeting on the situation in violence-struck Bangladesh, during which he said that India was keeping a close watch on the developments in the neighbouring country. He informed all the political parties about the safety of Indian nationals residing there and the steps taken by the Union government. On Monday, Sheikh Hasina landed at Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad hours after resigning as the country's Prime Minister and leaving Dhaka en route to Delhi. She arrived in India on a military transport plane of the Bangladesh Air Force as thousands of protesters stormed and vandalized 'Ganabhaban,' the official residence of the Prime Minister in Dhaka. Reports indicate that over 100 people were killed and more than 1,000 injured in clashes between police and protesters on Sunday. The student-led non-cooperation movement has put immense pressure on Hasina's government over the past few weeks. Students were protesting against a 30 per cent reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters who wrested independence for Bangladesh from Pakistan in 1971. New Delhi, Aug 6 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday told Indian Medical Association (IMA) President Dr R.V. Asokan to issue a public apology in prominent newspapers using his own funds for his contemptuous statement. In an interview with a media outlet, Dr Asokan had termed the oral observations made by the apex court during Patanjali misleading advertisements case against allopathy practitioners as "unfortunate" and a "very vague and general statement which has demoralised the doctors". Asking the IMA chief to publish a public apology from his own pocket, not from IMA's funds, a bench presided over by Justice Hima Kohli adjourned the proceedings to allow him to take steps to purge himself of the contempt of court proceedings. In an earlier hearing, the top court took note of the apology issued by Asokan in the IMA's monthly magazine and its official website. Patanjali had moved an application seeking contempt against the IMA President for giving a "very disturbing interview". Senior advocate Mukul Rohtagi, representing Patanjali, had apprised the apex court, "He (IMA president) says why the court has turned fingers at us and the court is making unfortunate statements ... .This is direct interference with the court's proceedings." Initially, the IMA had sought action against Patanjali for violation of the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954 -- which prohibits the advertisement of certain products for the treatment of specified diseases and disorders, including diabetes, heart diseases, high or low blood pressure and obesity. The ayurvedic company had earlier assured the Supreme Court that it would not make any casual statements claiming the medicinal efficacy of its products or advertise or brand them in violation of law and would not release any statement against any system of medicine to the media in any form. After the top court's rap, Patanjali withdrew the sale and advertisements of products whose manufacturing licences were suspended by the Uttarakhand State Licencing Authority in April this year. Hyderabad, Aug 6 : With heavy inflows continuing from upstream, 12 more crest gates of the Nagarjuna Sagar Project (NSP) across Krishna River in Telangana were lifted to release water downstream. The irrigation department officials decided to open more gates as the water level almost touched Full Reservoir Level (FRL) following heavy inflows from the Srisailam project and other areas upstream. Nalgonda district Collector Narayan Reddy and Nagarjuna Sagar Project (NSP) chief engineer Nageswara Rao initially opened three gates on Monday. As the inflows increased, seven more gates were lifted later. With the inflows reaching 3.55 lakh cusecs on Monday night, the officials opened more gates. A total of 22 gates have been lifted up to five feet to release the water downstream. As many as 1.96 lakh cusecs water is being released for power generation and for left and right canals, officials said on Tuesday. The inflow into NSP on Tuesday was 3.54 lakh cusecs while the outflow was 3.14 lakh cusecs. The present water level in the reservoir is 585.40 feet while the full reservoir level is 590 feet. The NSP has storage of 298.58 TMC against its full capacity of 312.5 TMC. The gates of NSP, one of the major dams in the country, have been opened after a gap of two years. Heavy rains in the catchment area and the massive inflows from upstream, brought to an end a year-long crop holiday and water scarcity in NSPas vast ayacut comprising 18 lakh acres in both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Before lifting the crest gates, the officials in coordination with the district administration sounded an alert to those residing in the areas downstream and advised them to exercise more caution before entering the river. Villages along the river in Nalgonda district of Telangana and Palnadu district of Andhra Pradesh were already put on alert and fishermen were advised not to venture into the river. Meanwhile, the Pulichthe Intala project downstream is also receiving huge inflows following the lifting of the gates of NSP. The water level in the project located in Andhra Pradesh has reached 142.71 feet against an FRL of 175 feet. The inflow into the project was 74,443 cusecs while the outflow was 25,676 cusecs. The storage in Pulichintala stands at 10.65 TMC against its full capacity of 45.77 TMC. Meanwhile, the Sriram Sagar project across the Godavari River in Telanganaas Nizamabad district is also receiving huge inflows from upstream. The water level in the project on Tuesday afternoon was 1080.30 feet against an FRL of 1,091 feet. While the total capacity of Sriram Sagar is 80.5 TMC total, the water storage on Tuesday was 45.75 TMC. Dhaka, Aug 6 : Attendance at various government offices in Dhaka remained quite low amid growing fear and anxiety, Bangladesh media reported on Tuesday, a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and left the country. With the central office of the Awami League on Bangabandhu Avenue in the capital set on fire Monday night, tension gripped the ministry offices where portraits and photographs of Hasina were taken down on Monday morning. "The smell of the fire from the Awami League office in the morning could be sensed from the Secretariat, increasing the fear among the officers and employees. Many people were leaving the Secretariat out of fear," reported Dhaka Tribune. The leading national daily quoted an official as saying that people were currently working "under the directives of the Secretary" and will keenly watch how the situation unfolds. "Some officers and employees believed that leaving the Secretariat in this situation could be exploited by miscreants, potentially damaging important state documents. Therefore, they preferred to stay at the office," the report mentioned. Meanwhile, violence and chaos continues in the country after Hasina left Dhaka for New Delhi on Monday. The Daily Star reported that at least 24 people were killed after a mob set fire to Zabeer International Hotel owned by Shahin Chakladar, the general secretary of Jashore District Awami League in the Khulna Division. "The bodies were lying on different floors," said Mamun Mahmud, Deputy Director of Khulna Fire Service who said that the blaze was finally doused around 5:45 am, local time on Tuesday. The local media also reported a surge in sale of bail bonds in Dhaka courts following the decision that hearings will be held immediately whenever a bail application is made in a political case. "After receiving the news, lawyers began applying for bail for the accused arrested in political cases starting from Tuesday morning. "Since morning, long queues of lawyers have formed at every booth in the court to buy bail bonds. The decision to hear bail applications was taken during a meeting with lawyers earlier in the morning in the district judge's court meeting room," reported Dhaka Tribune. New Delhi, Aug 6 : Delhi BJP on Tuesday staged a protest outside Tihar Jail demanding the resignation of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is incarcerated there. The protest came in the wake of a High Court verdict on Monday upholding the Delhi CMas arrest by the CBI in a corruption case stemming from the alleged excise policy scam. The court disposed of CM Kejriwalas bail plea and granted him the liberty to approach the trial court for relief. Tuesdayas protest against the Delhi CM by BJP workers was led by Delhi President of the party, Virendra Sachdeva and other senior leaders. During the protest, BJP cadres chanted slogans demanding CM Kejriwal's resignation. Virendra Sachdeva said they were seeking his resignation because governance and administrative work in the national Capital had come to a standstill because of the CM being in prison and running the show from there. He insisted that after the courtas order, CM Kejriwal should tender his resignation instead of running the government from prison. "No minister of the AAP government is ready to take responsibility for any issue and they are busy shifting the blame on officers. Corruption has risen to new heights and the people of Delhi are being crushed in this messy situation," Sachdeva charged. CM Kejriwal was arrested by the CBI on June 26 from Tihar jail, where he was lodged in judicial custody in a money-laundering case filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) that is connected to the liquor policy issue. The Delhi CM was arrested by the ED on March 21 and was granted bail by the trial court in the money-laundering case on June 20. However, the trial court's order was stayed by the High Court. The AAP government, under CM Kejriwal, introduced a new excise policy in 2021-22, which was implemented in November 2021 but was cancelled in July 2022 due to controversies. New Delhi, Aug 6 : Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur on Tuesday announced that it has transferred its portable and non-invasive oral cancer detection device to the industry to facilitate widespread adoption and commercial success. The unique technology named 'Munh Parikshak' is a portable device invented by Prof. Jayant Kumar Singh and his team from the Department of Chemical Engineering to detect oral cancer. The institute transferred the device to Scangenie Scientific, after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the company. "Munh-Parikshak is a user-friendly device having a white and fluorescent light source that connects wirelessly to smartphones, tablets, iPads, etc," IIT-Kanpur said. The device also comes with a built-in power backup, and it stores health history for tracking and provides instant oral health reports. Using special lights and a camera, the device examines the mouth. It then analyses mouth images and categorises them as normal, pre-cancerous, or cancerous. The results are instantly displayed on a smartphone app and stored on cloud servers for continuous updates, making it ideal for self-testing. The device offers quick and painless screening with 90 per cent accuracy in clinical settings. It is safe, radiation-free, and does not require any additional chemicals or processes, the institute said. "The signing of the MoU with Scangenie Scientific marks a significant milestone in our mission to transition research and development into commercially viable products," said Prof Tarun Gupta, Dean of Research and Development at IIT Kanpur. "This MoU aims to effectively market our invention within the healthcare sector, ultimately affordable and beneficial to everyone," he added. Oral cancer is among the top global cancers, posing economic and clinical burdens on healthcare systems worldwide, particularly impacting India, where it constitutes up to 40 per cent of cases. Early detection is vital to reduce morbidity and mortality, driving the need for affordable, non-invasive, user-friendly diagnostic tools for widespread screening. New Delhi, Aug 6 : In a boost for domestic capabilities while reducing dependency on foreign entities in the shipping sector, there has been a consistent rise in Indian tonnage and now, 1,530 vessels are Indian-flagged with 13.7 million gross tonnage (GT), the Parliament was informed on Tuesday. According to Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, 1,041 vessels with 1.7 million GT are now engaged in coastal trade (as of June). While 485 Indian-flagged vessels with 11.95 million GT now operate in overseas trade, four vessels of 45,604 GT have been acquired under Indian-controlled tonnage. "Overall, 1,530 vessels are Indian-flagged with 13.7 Million GT. With the rise in Indian tonnage, there has been a shift in business preference towards Indian-flagged vessels over foreign-flagged ones," the minister said in the Rajya Sabha. The government has undertaken several initiatives to make the country 'Aatmanirbhar' in the shipping sector. According to the minister, these efforts are part of a road map to enhance domestic capabilities and reduce dependency on foreign entities. In 2015, the Centre approved the Financial Assistance Policy for Indian Shipyards, for grant of financial help. Also, the subsidy scheme for the promotion of flagging of merchant ships in India was initiated in 2021 with a budget of Rs 1,624 crore to be disbursed over five years. The Right of First Refusal (ROFR) scheme granted Indian-flagged vessels the priority to match the lowest bid offered by foreign-flagged vessels, thereby raising the demand for Indian flagged vessels. "These initiatives have boosted the shipping sector's contribution to India's GDP growth. The Indian tonnage over the last decade has been consistently increasing," said Sonowal. Meanwhile, the volume of cargo transported through India's inland waterways took a six-fold leap -- from 18.07 million metric tonnes (MMT) in 2013-14 to 133.03 MMT in 2023-24. As many as 106 new National Waterways were declared in 2016, with the number of operational waterways increasing from just three in 2013-14 to 26 by 2024. The government aims to further boost cargo traffic, targeting 200 MMT by 2030 and 500 MMT by 2047. At 5.2 million, Indian Americans are the nations second largest ethnic minority. They also are the most educated with 33% achieving college degrees and another 40% adding postgraduate diplomas. With these credentials they have excelled in all the professions, and they have attained, incredibly enough, a median household income of $152,000. Shymala Gopalan, Kamala Harris mother, was an early example of this dedication to education. She graduated from Delhi University in 1957 at the young age of 18. The next year, she started graduate school at the University of California, Berkeley, where she obtained a Ph.D. in nutrition and endocrinology in 1964. She went on to become a breast cancer expert and worked in labs at major universities across the country until her death in 2009. Harris father, Donald J. Harris, was a Black man from Jamaica who rose to become a full professor of economics at Stanford University. The couple met in Oakland at an Afro-American Association meeting in 1962 and they were married the next year. Shyamala Gopalan took her daughters to the local Hindu temple, where she sang traditional Hindu songs. The girls primary religious experiences, however, were in an African American church in Oakland where Kamala and her sister, Maya, sang in the childrens choir. Most influential, however, was the Rainbow Sign, an African American cultural center in Berkeley, named after the rainbow that appeared to Noah. Shymala Gopalan and her girls were regulars at the Rainbow Sign, where they met Black celebrities such as Shirley Chisholm, Alice Walker and Maya Angelou. Memo to Donald Trump: Kamala Harris is half-Black. Her mother knew that her daughters would be perceived as Black, and she was determined to raise them accordingly. Following in her mothers academic footsteps, Kamala Harris graduated from Howard University (74% Black) in 1986, and then she obtained her law degree at Hastings School of Law in 1989. For the next 25 years, Harris was a successful prosecutor in the state of California. She was then elected as the states first woman, the first Black, and the first Indian American to hold the office of attorney general. Before being picked as Bidens vice president, Harris served four years as Californias junior U.S. senator. Kolkata, Aug 6 : The leader of Opposition (LoP) in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, on Tuesday, left for a sudden out-of-schedule visit to Delhi. Although Adhikari did not utter a single word to the mediapersons about his sudden tour to the national capital, sources within the state unit of BJP said that he might be meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the possible fallout of the Bangladesh crisis on West Bengal. The tour of the LoP to the national capital became significant amid his comments on Monday afternoon apprehending that around one crore Hindu refugees might enter the state from the neighbouring country in the next few days. Besides claiming that he will request West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to speak to the Union government on the issue, Adhikari also issued an appeal to the people of West Bengal to provide shelter to the Hindu refugees coming to the state. Adhikari also claimed that if the turbulent situation in Bangladesh continues for some more days, then the country will come under the grip of the fundamentalist forces that will ultimately prompt the Hindu refugees to seek shelter in India. On the other hand, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on Monday, issued instructions to her cabinet and party colleagues to refrain from making comments to the media or making any social media posts on the Bangladesh crisis. She also issued a public appeal on this count. Meanwhile, BSF have enhanced the security arrangements at the International Border with Bangladesh in West Bengal with the main target being to prevent any kind of illegal infiltration in view of the crisis in that country. New Delhi, Aug 6 : Making a suo-moto statement in the Rajya Sabha on the ongoing situation in Bangladesh, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Tuesday expressed India's deep concern over the attacks on minorities, their businesses, and temples at "multiple locations" in the neighbouring country. Jaishankar's remarks came a day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as the Prime Minister and reached India following massive violence in Dhaka and several other parts of Bangladesh. "Properties of individuals associated with the regime were torched across the country. What was particularly worrying was that minorities, their businesses, and temples also came under attack at multiple locations. The full extent of this is still not clear," the EAM said while detailing the events since August 4 when things took a "very serious turn" in Bangladesh. Asserting that the Indian government remains in "regular touch" with the authorities in Dhaka, Jaishankar said that New Delhi expects the host government to provide required security protection to Indian establishments in Bangladesh besides ensuring the protection and well-being of the minorities. Apprising the House about the recent developments pertaining to Bangladesh, the EAM highlighted that the India-Bangladesh relations have been "exceptionally close" for many decades and over many governments, and New Delhi is looking forward to "normal functioning" once the situation stabilises. Terming it a "sensitive issue", he also sought the understanding and support of the House members with regard to an "important neighbour", on which, he said there has always been a "strong national consensus". The EAM made it clear that concerns about the recent violence and instability in Bangladesh are shared across the political spectrum. "Since the elections in January 2024, there has been considerable tension, deep divides, and growing polarisation in Bangladesh politics. This underlying foundation aggravated a student agitation that started in June this year. "There was growing violence, including attacks on public buildings and infrastructure, as well as traffic and rail obstructions. The violence continued through July. Throughout this period, we repeatedly counselled restraint and urged that the situation be diffused through dialogue," he said. Jaishankar also told the House that similar urgings were made to various political forces with whom the Indian government remained in touch. However, despite the Supreme Court of Bangladesh's judgment on July 21, there was no let up in the public agitations. "Various decisions and actions taken thereafter only exacerbated the situation. The agitation at this stage coalesced around a one-point agenda, i.e., Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina should step down," the EAM said. On Monday, the EAM said, the demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. "Our understanding is that after a meeting with the leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently decided to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come, for the moment, to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from the Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he added. Maintaining that the situation in Bangladesh is "still evolving" with the country's Army chief speaking on Monday about assuming responsibility and constituting an interim government, Jaishankar said the Indian government is in "close and continuous touch" with the Indian community in Bangladesh through its diplomatic missions in the neighbouring country. "There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students. The bulk of the students, however, have already returned to India in July on the advice of the High Commission. "In terms of our diplomatic presence, in addition to the High Commission in Dhaka, we have Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet. We expect that the host government will provide the required security protection for these establishments," he said. Before ending his statement, the EAM assured the House that the government is also monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities in Bangladesh. "There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being. We welcome that, but we will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order are visibly restored. Our border guarding forces have also been instructed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation. "In the last 24 hours, we have also been in regular touch with the authorities in Dhaka. This is the situation as of now. I seek the understanding and support of the House with regard to the sensitive issues concerning an important neighbour, on which there has always been a strong national consensus," he concluded. Earlier in the day, Jaishankar briefed an all-party meeting in the Parliament about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. "Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended," he posted on X after the meeting. Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 6 : Kerala Congress on Tuesday said that the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF) must be utilised in the most transparent manner. "The necessity to maintain transparency is of utmost importance. Like in the past when the worst floods hit in 2018, contributions came thick and fast. However, the utilisation of it turned into a legal issue due to the lack of transparency. This time there should be no such trouble," Congress MLA Ramesh Chennithala told media person. He said that it is the responsibility of the Vijayan government to ensure that there is proper accountability and also the utilisation of the funds should be transparent. "We have also demanded that all should come forward and contribute to the CMDRF. All the opposition MLAs have decided to contribute one month's salary to the CMDRF," he said. Earlier, State Congress Chief and Kannur Lok Sabha MP K. Sudhakaran also asked the Chief Minister to guarantee that the government will not divert the funds for any other project received for the rehabilitation of the disaster-hit people. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Sudhakaran hail from Kannur and have been having a five-decade-old feud, with one taking on the other at frequent intervals. Tuesday marks the eighth day of Kerala's worst-ever natural disaster which hit Wayanad leaving over 402 people dead and 180 people still missing. Four villages of Wayanad have been washed away when a landslide occurred on July 30th. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has asked all the stakeholders to come forward and contribute to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF) so that the state government can rehabilitate the landslide victims. Bengaluru, Aug 6 : Karnataka BJP President, BY Vijayendra on Tuesday claimed that Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was accused number one in the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) and tribal welfare Board scams. Addressing the gathering at Maddur town on the fourth day of the 'Mysuru Chalo' padyatra, Vijayendra stated, "If one looks at the accused in the MUDA land scam and the misappropriation of funds in the Valmiki Tribal Board, the number one accused is Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself." Vijayendra declared that the fight would continue until CM Siddaramaiah resigned from his post. "The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has filed a charge sheet in the Valmiki Development Corporation case. However, the names of former minister B Nagendra and the tribal welfare corporation's Chairman Basanagouda Daddal have been omitted from the charge sheet. If their names are mentioned, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's role would come out and he would become the number one accused. Hence, they have excluded their names," he alleged. He also alleged that the Karnataka government led by CM Siddaramaiah had embezzled funds meant for Scheduled Castes and tribes. BJP State General Secretary, P Rajeev, said that the CM should know that the law is the same for everyone. Rajeev asked what CM Siddaramaiah had said when then Karnataka Governor late Hansraj Bhardwaj had allowed an investigation against then CM BS Yediyurappa, which ultimately led to him going to prison. "CM Siddaramaiah should be reminded of the statements he had made at that time," Rajeev stated. Rajeev said that thousands of BJP and JD(S) workers were marching together in the foot march, and there were hundreds of cars following behind but despite the heat, nobody was getting into their cars, which showed the enthusiasm of the workers for the march. He pointed out that there are always jesters and actors everywhere and emphasised that there is no need to take them seriously and there was unity in the BJP. He claimed that their unity was genuine and aimed at honesty, while the Opposition's unity was to protect corruption. New Delhi, Aug 6 : The government on Tuesday informed that the total installed capacity of solar photovoltaic (PV) power in the country stands at 85.47 gigawatt (GW) and wind power at 46.65 GW. The Centre has undertaken several measures and initiatives to promote the development of renewable energy (RE), including solar and wind power. These measures directly or indirectly incentivise industries to increase the use of RE against the consumption of energy from conventional coal-thermal-based power, according to Shripad Yesso Naik, Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy. The minister told the Rajya Sabha that the country aims to achieve 500 GW of installed electric capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030. Towards that goal, the Centre has permitted foreign direct investment (FDI) up to 100 per cent under the automatic route. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has also waived Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) charges for inter-state sale of solar and wind power for projects to be commissioned by June 30, 2025, for Green Hydrogen projects till December 2030 and for offshore wind projects till December 2032. "To boost RE consumption, Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) trajectory has been announced till 2029-30 including separate RPO for decentralised Renewable Energy," the minister informed. A project development cell for attracting and facilitating investments has also been set up. There are other schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM), PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, National Programme on High-Efficiency Solar PV Modules, National Green Hydrogen Mission, and the development of 1GW Offshore Wind Energy Projects, etc. According to the Economic Survey 2023-2024, India has a well-established infrastructure to attract FDI in sectors like greenfield projects such as renewable. Top American and European companies in the renewable energy sector, such as First Solar, Vesta, and Scatec, have established their operations in India to take advantage of the growing demand for green technologies. According to experts, the Union Budget will steer India towards a sustainable path. Climate and energy experts said the Budget highlighted several key initiatives like energy transition pathways, climate finance, improving water resources management, and measures related to irrigation and flood management that will boost India's fight against the impacts of climate change. Mumbai, Aug 6 : A day after the Bombay High Court dismissed the petition challenging the MahaYuti government's ambitious Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar on Tuesday countered opposition's claim that the scheme would not sustain, saying that making the impossible, possible is what he takes pride in. Mumbai, Aug 6 (IANS) A day after the Bombay High Court dismissed the petition challenging the MahaYuti governmentas ambitious Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar on Tuesday countered oppositionas claim that the scheme would not sustain, saying that making the impossible, possible is what he takes pride in. Pawar, who heads the NCP will kick-start the Jansanman Yatra on August 8 expressing resolve to implement a slew of welfare and development schemes. He also clarified that he would make all efforts to strengthen the Ladki Bahin Scheme by increasing funds. "Opposition parties are saying Ladki Bahin Yojana is not possible to sustain. Making the impossible possible is what I take pride in. They have made it clear they want to stop the scheme because they think it is impossible. I will do my best to strengthen the scheme and increase the amount in the coming years," said the Dy CM. He further added, "This election (upcoming Assembly election) is between those who are for womenas welfare and those who are against it." Pawar took to X to take on the opposition, mainly the Maha Vikas Aghadi partners claiming that the Ladki Bahin and several other schemes announced in the Budget 2024-25 were ''election Jumlas" while questioning its implementation citing the continuity in the availability of funds. Pawar reiterated that he has already made the allocation of Rs 35,000 crore up to March next year adding that funds wonat be an issue for its implementation. It is not just Dy CM Pawar but Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis who have also slammed the opposition for criticising the government over these schemes. The CM had said that the "sisters will teach a lesson to step brothers (those questioning the financial viability of the scheme)". He further added that the Ladki Bahin is not a "jumla". Dy CM Fadnavis claimed that the state government has kept the funds for the Ladki Bahin Scheme till next March next year. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Minister of Women and Child Welfare Aditi Tatkare said the government hopes to deposit two instalments for July and August (Rs 1,500 each) to over one crore eligible women beneficiaries through DBT under the Ladki Bahin Scheme on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan which falls on August 19. She claimed that there has been an overwhelming response from the women saying that the government expects by the end of August 31 the registration of over 2.50 crore eligible women beneficiaries. Panaji, Aug 6 : To construct a permanent campus for the Indian Institute of Technology-Goa, the site selection committee under the Union Ministry of Education has inspected a site measuring 10 lakh sq mt in South Goa. The land has been identified under four survey numbers measuring 10,49,118 sq m at Malewada-Rivona in Sanguem taluka of South district. According to sources, Goa's Revenue Department is ascertaining and verifying the title documents of the identified land. "After that, upon initiation and completion of the land acquisition process, and handing over of the land to IIT-Goa, the construction thereupon would be commenced by the Government of India. IIT-Goa would finalise this only after the land is handed over," sources said. "Goa government will ensure that sufficient safeguards are adopted to minimize any adverse impact on the environment and existing green cover at the time of granting required project approval by the various statutory authorities, who would be approving the project in accordance with rules, regulations, norms and standards, as applicable." After facing opposition at three places, the Goa government identified the place in Rivona in Sanguem constituency which got the green signal from the local panchayat. Set up in July 2016, the IIT Goa campus is temporarily housed in Goa Engineering College in Ponda, South Goa. Initially, land was identified at Canacona in South Goa, which was cancelled after protests by the locals. Later, land was identified at Shel-Melauli in Sattari taluka of North Goa. In this case, the affected people launched an agitation saying it would destroy the environment. Bowing to the people's pressure, this too was cancelled. Another piece of land for the project was identified at Cotarli in Sanguem but even there the project faced opposition. Now the site has been finalised at Rivona in Sanguem taluka. New Delhi, Aug 6 : Amid ongoing protests in Bangladesh, student movement leaders Nahid Islam, Asif Mahmood, and Abu Bakar Majumdar released a video message on Tuesday, demanding that Nobel laureate economist Muhammad Yunus be given the role of advisor to the interim government. In a video appeal, Nahid Islam urged fellow student leaders and members to remain vigilant against an alleged conspiracy aimed at discrediting their movement. He accused the mobs of targeting Hindu communities in Bangladesh, engaging in looting and vandalism. He urged his supporters to remain alert and requested the current President to appoint Yunus as the advisor to the interim government. Islam revealed that the studentsa union already had a conversation with Yunus, who agreed to support their call for a anew Bangladesh.a The student leaders have rejected any government led by the military and urged the President to swiftly establish a new government and restore law and order in the country. Nahid Islam is currently a student in the Sociology Department at Dhaka University and is known for his work as a human rights activist. He serves as one of the national coordinators for the 'Students Against Discrimination Movementa, a student-led protest demanding reforms to the quota system in government jobs in Bangladesh. On the other hand, Yunus also criticised former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled the country, stating that the nation was under a form of slavery during her regime. He described Sheikh Hasinaas rule as tyrannical, asserting that people were feeling free for the first time. During the Awami Leagueas rule, 190 cases were filed against Yunus. He accused Hasina of ruining her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's legacy and justified the current unrest, asserting that the students and youth involved were acting out of frustration. Yunus expressed the hope that these students would lead the country in a positive direction. He also criticised former PM Hasina for manipulating elections and creating a political environment where answering to the people was difficult. Seoul, Aug 6 : South Korea is banning travel to the border regions of Israel and Lebanon, and raising a travel advisory for part of Iran as the tensions of conflict have sharply escalated in the Middle East, the foreign ministry said on Tuesday. The Level 4 travel ban, the highest of the four-scale travel warning system, will be applied to the northern border region of Israel and Lebanon's southern border area, about 4 kilometers and 5 km from the Blue Line, respectively, the ministry said. The changes will be effective from Wednesday, Yonhap news agency reported. The Blue Line is a temporary demarcation line dividing Lebanon from Israel and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. It was drawn by the United Nations in 2000 to determine Israel's line of withdrawal from Lebanon. Most of Israel and Lebanon had been under the Level 3 travel alert, which calls for people to leave the countries. The Gaza Strip and its border regions had already been issued the Level 4 travel warning. A "special travel advisory," calling for people to cancel or postpone trips, will be issued for the rest of Iran. South Korea maintains the Level 3 alert, recommending departure from the country, for the Iranian regions bordering Turkey and Iraq, and three coastal provinces -- Khuzestan, Bushehr and Hormozgan -- in the Persian Gulf. Jaipur, Aug 6 : Rajasthan Speaker Vasudev Devnani has suspended the Congress MLA Mukesh Bhakar for six months now while the Assembly has been adjourned sine die on Tuesday. On Monday, Bhakar was suspended for a day for creating a ruckus in the Assembly over the disaster management debate. However, when the proceedings resumed on Tuesday, Congress MLAs protested and remained adamant about cancelling of suspension of Bhakar. Chief Whip Jogeshwar Garg asked the Speaker to suspend Bhakar for six months, which was approved and the Assembly was adjourned sine die. Garg said that Bhakar should have left the House after being suspended on August 5. "The Speaker repeatedly asked him to leave the House but he did not listen. When they tried to forcefully send him out and called the marshals, he bit the hand of the security personnel, one of them was a woman security personnel. The opposition should be ashamed," the Chief Whip said. He said that there is a provision in the Procedure and Working Rule 292-3 of the Assembly that the suspended MLA should immediately leave the boundaries of the House. "Bhakar did not do it while the opposition kept protecting him. A person who behaves indecently has no right to remain a member of this House," the Chief Whip said. On Tuesday, when the debate on disaster management resumed, which was started by BJP MLA Sandeep Sharma, there was a huge uproar by the opposition against the suspension of their MLA. They also raised slogans against the government. While the opposition continued sloganeering, Congress MLA Ramila Khadiya stumbled and fell as her health deteriorated due to low blood pressure. The Speaker asked the opposition to send the suspended MLA out first and then let the Question Hour continue. However, there remained a deadlock in the Assembly throughout the day over Bhakar's suspension. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel also discussed with the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) to remove the deadlock however talks failed and the Assembly was adjourned sine die. Islamabad, Aug 6 : Pakistan will emphasise the urgency of peace and provision of relief assistance for Gaza in the upcoming Organization of Islamic Cooperation's (OIC) meeting, the Pakistani Foreign Ministry has said. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will attend the Extraordinary Meeting of the OIC convened at the request of Palestine and Iran in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah on Wednesday, Xinhua news agency reported, citing a statement released by the ministry. Dar will present his country's "serious concerns" about the "dire" situation in Gaza and the wider Middle East region, the statement added. "As one of the staunchest supporters of the Palestinian cause, Pakistan has always been at the forefront in raising its voice at all international fora, including the OIC," it said. New Delhi, Aug 6 : Amid the chaos and unrest in Dhaka and other parts of the neighbouring country, the General Secretary of ISKCON Bangladesh, Charu Chandra Das Brahmachari, on Tuesday expressed concerns over the targeted attacks on Hindus as he appealed to the Indian government to come to their rescue. In an exclusive interview with IANS, Brahmachari said, "The situation was bad yesterday... we were afraid that temples and Hindus in Bangladesh will be attacked anytime." He also highlighted the recurring pattern of minorities being targeted whenever the government falls. "Hindus are very afraid that they will be attacked anytime. This is because whenever the government falls, minorities are affected. This happens every time," he told IANS. Brahmachari also recounted incidents of Hindu temples and houses being "burnt down" and families being "attacked" following Sheikh Hasina's resignation as the Prime Minister on Monday. Appealing to the Indian government, he said, "Since India and Bangladesh share good relations, the Indian government can do something for the Hindu minorities here. We request them to please help us." When asked if he plans to seek refuge in India, Brahmachari expressed his commitment to his country but acknowledged the possibility of many Hindus leaving Bangladesh if the situation worsens. "I am a 'Sadhu' (monk), and this is my country. But if this situation continues, many will leave the country and go to India or any other nation," he said. On Bangladesh Army chief's announcement to form an interim government soon, he said, "Yes, the Army said this but we never know what they will do... we are still worried as to how long the Hindu minorities can be safe in this country. If the violent situation is brought under control, we will stay. But if not, people will have to leave." "This is because many Hindu MLAs, businessmen, and their houses were attacked. If this continues, Hindus will not stay here," he added. Brahmachari also highlighted the vulnerability of monks and devotees, who fear attacks while in temples or wearing saffron clothing in public. "I am safe here for now but I don't know for how long... we have about 150 devotees in this temple but we don't know for how long we can be safe," he said. Brahmachari also described the current situation as "relatively calm" compared to the violence witnessed on Monday when Hindus and their temples were targeted. "Now the situation is okay. No slogans were raised today. I stay in Chattogram, which is the second biggest city in Bangladesh, and this is the largest ISKCON temple in the country. But we still don't know for how long we will be safe," he added. He concluded with an appeal to the Indian government, saying, "I hope and pray to Lord Krishna... I am hopeful that the Indian government will save the Bangladeshi Hindus." Mumbai, Aug 6 : Bollywood heartthrob Vicky Kaushal has revealed his comfort food "maa ke haath khaana"" as he shared pictures of an Indian dessert made by his mother. Mumbai, Aug 6 (IANS) Bollywood heartthrob Vicky Kaushal has revealed his comfort food "maa ke haath khaana"" as he shared pictures of an Indian dessert made by his mother. Vicky took to Instagram, where he shared a picture of a bowl full of "sevaiyan". Sharing it with pride with his fans and followers, he captioned the picture: "Maa ke haath ki sevaiyan". For the background score, the star used the track "Tareefan" by rapper Badshah and Qaran from the 2018 film "Veere Di Wedding". The track is originally picturised on Kareena Kapoor Khan, Sonam Kapoor, Swara Bhasker and Shikha Talsania. Talking about Vicky, the actor's latest release is "Bad Newz", where he starred alongside Triptii Dimri and Ammy Virk. The film was a hilarious take on heteropaternal superfecundation, where twins are born to the same mother, but from different biological fathers. The film was released on July 19. After the film was released, Ammy had written a special note for Vicky. He shared a string of images with Vicky, expressing how he had an absolute blast working with the 'Sam Bahadur' actor. Ammy wrote in the caption: "From rehearsals to red carpets, it's been a blast with my brother Vicky Kaushal. Lights, camera, and bromance. Couldn't have asked for better. Just two Punjabi Munde planning to take over the world! Sharing the screen was an absolute pleasure. Talent ta hai hi, par dil vi bahut vadda veer da. Thank you for the experience, bhaji." During the promotions of "Bad Newz", Vicky had shut down rumours revolving around his actress-wife Katrina Kaif's pregnancy. Addressing the pregnancy rumours back then, he had said: "When there is some good news, we will be very happy to share it with you. But until then, there is just speculation. Jab good news ka time aayega we will share with you (When the time for good news comes, we will share it with you)." The actor will next be seen in "Chhava" directed by Laxman Utekar. In the movie, Vicky will be seen as Maratha emperor Sambhaji, son of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. "Chhava" also stars Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, Ashutosh Rana, and Divya Dutta. New Delhi, Aug 6 : The Union Minister of Labour & Employment, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, on Tuesday directed senior officials to expeditiously implement the Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme announced in Union Budget 2024-25 to bolster employment generation "in a mission mode." New Delhi, Aug 6 (IANS) The Union Minister of Labour & Employment, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, on Tuesday directed senior officials to expeditiously implement the Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme announced in Union Budget 2024-25 to bolster employment generation "in a mission mode." The minister asked the officers to carry out an extensive outreach and awareness campaign to educate people, especially the intended beneficiaries, about the benefits of the ELI Scheme. Dr. Mandaviya emphasised the importance of a robust mechanism to ensure that the benefits of the ELI Scheme reach true beneficiaries. "It is imperative that our efforts are directed towards creating a sustainable and inclusive employment ecosystem. The ELI Scheme is designed to facilitate job creation, and provide incentives to employers and employees," the Union Minister stated. The ELI Scheme aims to create over two crore jobs in the country in two years. This will significantly contribute to increasing employment opportunities and enhancing livelihood. The Ministry of Labour and Employment is in the process of finalising the details of these schemes along with their implementation plan, according to an official statement. Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment Shobha Karandlaje and senior officials of the Ministry and EPFO were also present in the meeting. Three schemes for 'Employment Linked Incentive' were announced in the Union Budget 2024-25 as part of the Prime Minister's package of five schemes and initiatives to facilitate employment, skilling and other opportunities for 4.1 crore youth over a five-year period with a central outlay of Rs. 2 lakh crore. The three ELI schemes include a scheme for first-timers, a scheme for creating jobs in the manufacturing sector while the third entails support to employers. This scheme for first-timers is expected to benefit 2.1 crore youth over two years. It will provide a one-month wage to all people newly entering the workforce in all formal sectors. The eligibility limit will be a salary of Rs. 1 lakh per month. Direct Benefit Transfer of one months' salary will be up to Rs 15,000 in three instalments to first-time employees, as registered in the EPFO. The second scheme aims at a substantial hiring of first-time employees in manufacturing. This scheme will incentivise additional employment in the sector and thereby is expected to benefit 30 lakh youth entering employment, and their employers. An incentive will be provided at a specified scale directly to both the employee and the employer for their EPFO contribution in the first four years of employment. The third is an employer-focussed scheme to cover all additional employment within a salary of Rs. 1 lakh per month in all sectors. New employees under this scheme need not be new entrants to EPFO. The government will reimburse to employers up to Rs. 3,000 per month for two years towards their EPFO contribution for each additional employee. The scheme is expected to incentivise additional employment of 50 lakh people. New Delhi, Aug 6 : To combat anaemia in the country, the government is supplying fortified rice enriched with iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 under the rice fortification initiative, said Anupriya Singh Patel, Union Minister of State (MoS) for Health and Family Welfare, this in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. Under the initiative, the custom-milled rice has been replaced with fortified rice. It will be implemented in a phased manner under the targeted public distribution system (TPDS), Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM-POSHAN) scheme, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, and in Other Welfare Schemes (OWS) in all States and Union Territories, the MoS said. Further, to achieve an anaemia Mukt Bharat (AMB), Patel noted that the government is also implementing a novel 6X6X6 strategy. "The 6X6X6 strategy aims to reduce anaemia among six beneficiary age groups: children aged 6-59 months, children aged 5-9 years, adolescents aged 10-19 years, women of reproductive age (15-49 years), pregnant women and lactating women," Patel said. The strategy will be implemented by way of six interventions, which include prophylactic iron-folic acid supplementation; periodic deworming; intensified year-round behaviour change communication campaign; testing of anaemia using digital invasive haemoglobinometer and point of care treatment; mandatory provision of iron folic acid fortified foods in public health programmes; addressing non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets. These will be disbursed via six institutional mechanisms such as inter-ministerial coordination; convergence with other ministries; strengthening supply chain and logistics; engaging the national centre of excellence, and advanced research on anaemia control for capacity building of health care providers; and monitoring using AMB dashboard, the MoS said. In addition, Mission Poshan 2.0 -- a flagship programme of the government that seeks to address the challenge of malnutrition -- provides supplementary nutrition to children (6 months to 6 years), pregnant women, lactating mothers, and adolescent girls (14 to 18 years in aspirational districts and Northeast states) to bridge the gap in the intake of nutrients. During Poshan Maahs and Poshan Pakhwadas celebrated in September and March-April respectively, dedicated activities for awareness of anaemia are also conducted, Patel said. --IANS rvt/dan Dhaka, Aug 6 : Several parts of the central office of the Awami League in Dhaka were set on fire again on Tuesday afternoon even as hundreds of people continued to loot furniture, tiles, rods and even commodes from the burning building, reported Bangladesh media. The office in Gulistan area of the capital was set on fire a short while after party chief and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and left the country on Monday. Some more parts of the building were put on fire again at around 12.30 PM Tuesday even as people continued ransacking it and leaving with whatever they could lay their hands on. "It can be seen that the fire is burning on the second and third floor of the office. In such a situation, all the furniture inside the floors where the fire is extinguished, is being taken away. Someone is coming out from inside the office with a rod, someone is opening the commode in the bathroom and coming out with it on their head. Someone is taking a chair, someone is taking a table. Someone is taking away the electronic," reported Prothom Alo, a leading Bengali newspaper in Bangladesh. Attendance at various government offices in Dhaka remained quite low on Tuesday amid growing fear and anxiety. Tension gripped several ministry offices where portraits and photographs of Hasina were taken down immediately. "The smell of the fire from the Awami League office in the morning could be sensed from the Secretariat, increasing the fear among the officers and employees. Many people were leaving the Secretariat out of fear," reported Dhaka Tribune. The newspaper quoted an official as saying that people were currently working "under the directives of the Secretary" and will keenly watch how the situation unfolds. "Some officers and employees believed that leaving the Secretariat in this situation could be exploited by miscreants, potentially damaging important state documents. Therefore, they preferred to stay at the office," the report mentioned. The Daily Star reported that at least 24 people were killed after a mob set fire to Zabeer International Hotel owned by Shahin Chakladar, the general secretary of Jashore District Awami League in the Khulna Division. "The bodies were lying on different floors," said Mamun Mahmud, Deputy Director of Khulna Fire Service who said that the blaze was finally doused around 5:45 am, local time on Tuesday. The local media also reported a surge in sale of bail bonds in Dhaka courts following the decision that hearings will be held immediately whenever a bail application is made in a political case. "After receiving the news, lawyers began applying for bail for the accused arrested in political cases starting from Tuesday morning. "Since morning, long queues of lawyers have formed at every booth in the court to buy bail bonds. The decision to hear bail applications was taken during a meeting with lawyers earlier in the morning in the district judge's court meeting room," reported Dhaka Tribune. New Delhi, Aug 6 : Doctors in Gurugram successfully performed surgery on a 70-year-old man suffering from a large, recurrent abdominal hernia, compounded by severe cardiac issues. The patient, Ghanshyam Thakur, was presented with an incisional hernia in March 2024. The hernia had grown so large that the overlying skin began ulcerating, necessitating immediate surgical intervention. However, Thakur's severe heart condition, with an ejection fraction of only 25 per cent, made him a high-risk candidate for surgery. Not operating posed the risk of skin rupture and exposed bowel loops. "These hernias aren't like conventional hernias, these are huge hernias, and the surgery done for these is also unlike other hernias. Just pushing the intestines back into the abdomen would cause a catastrophe. Hence, we do a special procedure known as Posterior Component Separation with Transversus Abdominis Release (PCS TAR)," explained Dr Mriganka Sekhar Sharma, Manipal Hospital, Gurugram. PCS TAR is a surgical technique for repairing large, complex ventral hernias. It involves separating the layers of the abdominal wall and releasing the transversus abdominis muscle to create more tissue for closure. "This allows us to pull the separated muscles together over the hernia defect, creating a stronger and more durable repair," Dr Sharma added. "PCS TAR is often preferred for large hernias as it reduces the risk of recurrence and improves abdominal wall function." Dealing with such large abdominal hernias poses a significant clinical challenge due to the "loss of domain." Achieving a tension-free closure of the abdominal muscles is technically demanding, especially in patients with cardiac or lung problems. The surgery required a multidisciplinary approach, with critical roles played by both the cardiologist and anesthesiologist. Despite a prolonged hospital stay due to his cardiac condition, Thakur was discharged smoothly and was able to walk out of the hospital, doctors said. Srinagar, Aug 6 : J&K Lt Governor (L-G) Manoj Sinha on Tuesday said that peace is a prerequisite for progress and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir. "We have been successful in dismantling the terror ecosystem and measures have been taken to sustain peace and stability. It will ensure that the benefits of growth reach all sections of society. It is my firm belief that peace is a prerequisite for progress and prosperity," L-G said while addressing the officers of the armed forces at Raj Bhawan. The officers of the Army, Navy and Air Force undergoing the Higher Command Course at Army War College at Mhow in Madhya Pradesh called on the L-G at the Raj Bhawan in Srinagar. These officers and faculty members are on a visit to the Northern Front. L-G said that the entire approach in J&K's transformation highlights the role of an efficient, effective and accountable administration which has transformed the way the government works for the people. He said that the improved security situation has propelled J&K towards an era of peace, stability and prosperity and this is a testament to the resilience and determination of the people. "The economic revitalisation with the fast-paced implementation of various initiatives and development projects has ensured a boost in the economy, creating more job opportunities and enhancing infrastructure," he said. He said that social equality and equal access to opportunity is the administration's commitment, adding that the transformative change has been marked by all-encompassing initiatives taken for youth empowerment and skill development with the aim to create avenues for gainful employment. --IANS sq/dan New Delhi, Aug 6 : Is your brain in a dilemma wondering if you should go for exercise or instead have those tasty extra fries? A study released by Swiss researchers on Tuesday may finally provide your answer. Until now, science has had no idea what happens in our brain when we make this decision. Researchers at ETH Zurich have uncovered a key factor in the brain's decision-making process when it comes to this particular decision. Scientists discovered that the chemical messenger orexin and its neurons may be transferable to humans, explaining why some resist temptations and maintain regular physical activity. Researchers found that mice with a blocked orexin system preferred a milkshake over exercise, while those with an intact orexin system spent more time on the running wheel and less time at the milkshake bar. Denis Burdakov, Professor of Neuroscience at ETH Zurich, explains the significance of these findings. He notes that while many people struggle to get enough exercise, some manage to resist daily temptations and stay active. Understanding what happens in the brain to facilitate this decision-making process is essential for developing new strategies to promote physical activity. According to the World Health Organization, 80 per cent of adolescents and 27 per cent of adults do not get enough exercise, and obesity rates are rising alarmingly among both adults and children. The study focused on orexin, a relatively recently discovered messenger substance in the brain. While other chemicals like serotonin and dopamine have long been known and studied, orexin's functions are only now being clarified. The researchers found that when mice were given a choice between running on a wheel and enjoying a strawberry-flavoured milkshake, the presence of an intact orexin system significantly influenced their preference for physical activity. The implications of these findings extend beyond basic neuroscience. Daria Peleg-Raibstein, a group leader at ETH Zurich, emphasises that this research could help in understanding and addressing the global obesity epidemic and related metabolic disorders. By exploring how the brain arbitrates between food consumption and physical activity, scientists can develop more effective interventions to overcome barriers to exercise, particularly for those whose physical activity is limited. The next step for the researchers is to verify these results in humans, given that the brain functions involved are known to be practically the same in both species. This could involve examining patients with a restricted orexin system due to genetic reasons or observing people who receive drugs that block orexin. Such studies could pave the way for new approaches to encourage exercise and reduce obesity rates, ultimately improving public health outcomes. Sydney, Aug 6 : An Australian doctor has been identified as the man killed by a crocodile after he slipped from the banks of a river in the country's northeastern state of Queensland, local media reported on Tuesday. Sydney, Aug 6 (IANS) An Australian doctor has been identified as the man killed by a crocodile after he slipped from the banks of a river in the country's northeastern state of Queensland, local media reported on Tuesday. David Hogbin, a 40-year-old doctor from the neighboring state of New South Wales, was with family members when he fell into the Annan River near Cooktown in Far North Queensland, and failed to resurface on Saturday, according to the Australian broadcaster ABC News. Police said on Tuesday that human remains were located in a crocodile that was shot dead at Cooktown on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported. "A formal identification process is underway. However, it is believed the remains are those of a missing 40-year-old New South Wales man," Queensland Police Service said in a statement. "Further testing will be conducted to determine a positive identity", he added. The 4.9-m crocodile was shot dead by wildlife rangers as part of the search for the missing man, who was believed to have been taken by the reptile after slipping into the Annan River, according to the Cairns Post, a major newspaper in Far North Queensland. The animal was located 4 km upstream from Crocodile Bend, where the man was taken when he slipped and fell into the river. The crocodile, which is believed to have dragged the man underwater in front of his family, had a distinctive mark on its snout, the Cairns Post reported. Six Chinese nationals and one Lao man are detained by border guards in Quang Tri Province in central Vietnam, August 2024. Photo by Phuoc Trung Border guards in central Vietnam have detained six Chinese men who entered Vietnam illegally en route to Cambodia where they allegedly planned to work for an online scam syndicate. The Quang Tri Province Border Guard Command said Monday it is temporarily detaining the six who came into Vietnam through a small border crossing near the Lao Bao International Border Gate in Huong Hoa District on the Laos border. At the end of July border guards had caught Si Non, 19, of Se Pon, Laos, transporting a Chinese national into Vietnam illegally by motorbike for a fee of 1.5 million Kip (US$67). Following this they tracked down and arrested Lai Jia Liang, 25, Wu Jia Bin, 27, Chen De Bin, 22, Pei Ze Zeng, 22, and Liu Yan Jun, 30. The Chinese claimed they were introduced and guided by certain people, whom police have yet to identify, and provided transportation by a hotel owner in the Golden Triangle area to Se Pon, where they rented a motorbike for further travel. They had been trained in high-tech scam techniques in the Golden Triangle region and intended to enter Cambodia from Vietnam to link up with criminal gangs. The Border Guard Command will hand them over to the police for further questioning. The Golden Triangle encompasses parts of northern Thailand, western Laos and eastern Myanmar, and is mountainous and remote, which has historically made it difficult for governments to exert control. It is notorious for its historical and ongoing involvement in the production and trafficking of opium and heroin. Over the past decade Cambodia has become a hotspot for online scam operations -- known as "pig butchering," a reference to grooming and "fattening" victims before scamming them -- many of which are run by Chinese nationals. They typically involve fraudulent schemes such as investment and romance scams and phishing attacks. New Delhi, Aug 6 : India has seen a surge in immunisation coverage of 93.5 per cent with Lakshadweep and Jammu and Kashmir leading, said Prataprao Jadhav, the Centre informed the Parliament on Tuesday. "The national full immunisation coverage for FY 2023-24 is 93.5 per cent," Union Minister of State (MoS) for Health and Family Welfare said in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha. Lakshadweep had 108.79 per cent coverage, followed by Jammu and Kashmir with 108.66 per cent. Other states that had good coverage include Telangana (106.13 per cent), Delhi (105.03 per cent), Andhra Pradesh (101.26), Maharashtra (101.04 per cent), and Mizoram (101.10 per cent). The Dadra And Nagar Haveli And Daman And Diu have the least coverage at 48.03 per cent. MoS Jadhav attributed the rise in immunisation coverage to the Universal immunisation programme, Mission Indradhanush (MI), and Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI). "Under the Universal immunisation programme, all eligible children up to the age of 2 years are administered vaccination doses as per the immunisation schedule. Mission Indradhanush (MI) and Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI), are special catch-up campaigns conducted at regular intervals to ensure vaccination of the left out and dropped-out children and pregnant women in the areas of low immunisation coverage," the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. Further, the ministry informed the Upper House of the Parliament that the country is well-countering Lymphatic Filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, and is a neglected tropical disease. Sarva Dawa Sevan or Mass Drug Administration (MDA) is one of the key strategies for the elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (ELF). Mass Drug Administration (MDA) was adopted as a strategy for ELF in 2004 and the same is conducted annually. As per the information received from the National Center for Vector Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC), in India, 345 districts of 20 States/Union Territories are endemic for Lymphatic Filariasis (LF). "Out of these 138 (40 per cent) districts have cleared the Transmission Assessment Survey (TAS-I) and stopped the Mass Drug Administration (MDA)," he said. The Centre has set a target of achieving more than 95 per cent coverage of the eligible population under the MDA campaign this year. In 2023, India had achieved a nationwide coverage of 82.5 per cent. New Delhi, August 6 : Muslim girls of a Mumbai college have filed a Special Leave Petition before the Supreme Court against the Bombay High Court judgment, which had rejected their plea challenging the ban on sporting hijabs, veils, stole, caps, etc. On Tuesday Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud told the petitioners' counsel that he has assigned the Bench to hear the matter and it will be listed soon for disposal. "The prohibition of wearing a hijab rather leads to indirect discrimination against female Muslim students regardless of the motive behind the Impugned Instruction as the outcome is prejudicial and discriminatory the same violates Article 14 of the Constitution," said the plea filed through advocate Abiha Zaidi. The prohibition of wearing a hijab has resulted in female Muslim students being stigmatised and not being able to attend classes this also has resulted in victimisation and indirect discrimination under the guise of enforcing discipline, it added. On June 26, a Division Bench comprising Justice AS Chandurkar and Justice Rajesh Patil of the Bombay HC dismissed Muslim students' plea saying they were not inclined to interfere with the decision of the Chembur Trombay Education Society (CTES)'s NG Acharya & DK Marathe College. The girls, students of SYBSc and TYBSc (Computer Science) programmes for the past two years, had termed the CTES management's decision as "arbitrary, unreasonable, bad in law and perverse" in their petition. The petitioners contended that the new dress code imposed by the college violated their fundamental rights to privacy, dignity and religious freedom. Pertinently, a two-judge Bench of the Supreme Court, in October 2022, gave a split verdict on petitions challenging the validity of the ban on hijab worn by some Muslim girl students in classrooms of pre-university colleges in Karnataka and directed that the matter be posted before the Chief Justice of India, who is the Master of Roster, for setting up a larger Bench. Mumbai, Aug 6 : The National Stock Exchange (NSE) on Tuesday said it achieved another milestone of listing five companies in a single day across the country with a consolidated issue size of Rs 2,047 crore. The simultaneous listing ceremonies for all five companies were held in Mumbai, Chennai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. These companies are Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Sathlokhar Synergys E&C Global Ltd, Ashapura Logistics Ltd, Rajputana Industries Ltd, and Bulkcorp International Ltd. Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals was listed with an issue size of Rs 1,856.74 crore. While Sathlokhar Synergys E&C Global was listed with an issue size of Rs 92.93 crore, Ashapura Logistics was listed with an issue size of Rs 52.66 crore. Rajputana Industries was listed with an issue size of Rs 23.88 crore and Bulkcorp International with an issue size of Rs.20.78 crore. "Todayas multi-city listing of 5 companies on the NSE stands as a testament to the strength of our technology infrastructure and issuance procedures," said Sriram Krishnan, Chief Business Development Officer, NSE. "We remain committed to smoothening the process for listing of good quality corporates to pave the way for achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modias vision of Viksit Bharat 2047," he added. NSE Main Board is witnessing similar buoyancy with 5 IPOs worth Rs 13,726 crore scheduled by August 13, said the exchange. As many as 2,535 companies from various sectors are listed on the NSE with a market capitalisation of Rs 455.79 lakh crore (as on July 30). Of these, 516 companies from various sectors are listed on the NSE Emerge platform and have collectively raised over Rs 12,459 crore. The total market capitalisation of these firms was approximately Rs 175,000 crore. Recently, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) launched India's first website for passive funds at the NSE. The website provides a comprehensive platform for retail investors and empowers them to easily access information and understand the Indian passive funds industry. Shimla, Aug 6 : Airing her views on the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh, BJP MP Kangana Ranaut said on Tuesday that there is a pressing need to thwart foreign forces from taking root in India. The actor-turned-politician said that international powers have surrounded the country from all sides and it is time that we stand up to this challenge and not let them run their hidden and wicked agenda. "International powers have surrounded us. Bangladesh incident is yet another testimony of the foreign plot. Bangladesh has been our friend for long but the power shift has changed everything. This is a matter of great concern for all of us," Ranaut told mediapersons. The first-time Parliamentarian also lauded the rich Sanatani tradition of the country and said that disturbing trends across the world, mostly in Islamic Republics, only underline the need for strengthening the roots of Sanatan Dharma. Kangana said, "We should learn from what is happening in Bangladesh and follow 'Sanatan Dharma' and spread it to avoid a similar situation in India." The BJP MP from Himachal's Mandi said this while inspecting the flood-hit areas in the state on Tuesday. On Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke about it for the first time after Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina resigned as the Prime Minister and expressed India's deep concern over the attacks on minorities, their businesses, and temples at "multiple locations" in the neighbouring country. "Maintaining that the situation in Bangladesh is "still evolving" with the country's Army chief speaking on Monday about assuming responsiblity and constituting an interim government. Jaishankar said the Indian government is in "close and continuous touch" with the Indian community in Bangladesh through its diplomatic missions in the neighbouring country." New Delhi, Aug 6 : Over 4.11 lakh farmers have benefited in the country as of June 30 this year through the PM-KUSUM scheme that enables them to set up solar power plants and irrigation pumps on their land, Minister of State for New & Renewable Energy, Shripad Yesso Naik, informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. The minister also said as per information provided by the state implementing agency of Uttar Pradesh till July 29 this year, the PM-KUSUM has provided benefits to 51,097 farmers in the state. The government launched the PM-KUSUM scheme in March 2019, which was scaled up in January 2024 to provide energy and water security to farmers, enhance their income, de-dieselise the farm sector, and reduce environmental pollution. The three components under the scheme include Component-A under which farmers can set up decentralised ground-mounted grid-connected solar or other renewable energy-based power plants on their land up to the capacity of 2MW. The renewable power generated from these power plants is purchased by DISCOMs at the pre-fixed tariff. In case farmers lease their land to the developer they are also eligible for lease rent. DISCOMs are eligible to get a Performance Based Incentive (PBI) @ Rs. 0.40 per unit purchased or Rs. 6.6 lakh per MW of capacity installed, whichever is less, for a period of five years from the Commercial Operation Date. The DISCOMs can, if they desire so, pass on the PBI given to them by the Central Government under this component, to the REPP owner to get a more competitive tariff of RE Power. Under Component-B farmers can install the stand-alone Solar Agriculture Pumps for irrigation. The Government provides the Central financial assistance of 30 per cent (or 50 per cent for North Eastern Region/Hilly region/Islands) for the solar pumps. The Component-C scheme enables solarisation of grid-connected agriculture pumps under its Individual Pump Solarisation (IPS) mode & also Feeder Level Solarisation (FLS) of agricultural load. The Government provides the central Financial Assistance of 30 per cent (or 50 per cent for the North Eastern Region/Hilly region/Islands) under Component-C for both IPS & FLS. This enables the farmers to access day-time assured solar energy. Tel Aviv, Aug 6 : At least five civilians were injured as Hezbollah launched a series of drone attacks on military targets in northern Israel on Tuesday, local media reported. One of the injured remains in critical condition after the drone attack near the northern city of Nahariya. "Following the alerts that were activated in the last hour in the north of the country, a number of unmanned aircraft were detected that crossed the territory of Lebanon. One was intercepted, falls were detected south of Nahariya and several civilians were injured," the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a post on X. "Missile and rocket fire alerts were activated for fear of falling fragments of interceptors," it added. The Israeli Foreign Ministry also said that it will not let the people of Israel be "terrorised". In a statement, Hezbollah said that the squadron of suicide drones targeted the headquarters of the Golani Brigade and the headquarters of the Egoz Unit 621 in the Shraga barracks of Acre, a port city in northwest Israel. Confrontations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army escalated following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, killing senior Hezbollah military commander Fouad Shokor and seven civilians. Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah had threatened a "definite and painful" response to the Israeli raid at an appropriate time and place. Kolkata, Aug 6 : Border Security Force (BSF) on Tuesday said that the curfew along the India-Bangladesh border will be strictly monitored in the wake of the illegal infiltrations following the political turmoil in Bangladesh. BSF DIG and Spokesperson, South Bengal Frontier, A K Arya, said that meetings were held with villagers at the Uttarpara and Mustafapur Border Outpost to discuss the prevailing situation in Bangladesh after the change of power. "Villagers were advised not to move around without any purpose on the border road or the nearby areas after dark. Announcements are also to be made from mosques to keep villagers away from the border. It has also been decided that shops in villages will close by 9 pm. Farmers have also been asked to use the fence gates only for essential work," the BSF Spokesperson said. He said that there is a need to maintain vigil and prevent infiltration and other criminal activities such as smuggling in the border areas. DIG Arya said that another coordination meeting was held at the Bornberia Border Outpost. "Key issues discussed in the meeting included management of tall crops in border areas, the problem of jute dumping by civilians near the border, civilian movement on border roads after curfew and land acquisition for fencing in unfenced areas," he said. He said that the meeting emphasised the importance of addressing these issues to maintain border security and community safety. He said that during all the meetings, the BSF stressed the importance of good relations between the force and the local civilian population. "It was emphasised that better coordination would result in fewer hassles for the BSF and villagers alike," DIG Arya said. Chennai, Aug 6 : Tamil Nadu Health Minister, Ma Subramanian on Tuesday directed the state health department to issue transfer orders to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Paramakudi Government Hospital in Ramanathapuram District for negligence of duty. The minister while conducting a surprise inspection on Tuesday morning at the Paramakudi Government Hospital found that it was not well-maintained. Ma Subramanian told media persons that the CT scan room was not clean and could lead to infections. The minister said that this was affecting the Public Health System and added that the CMO was responsible for the same and immediately ordered his transfer. Speaking to media persons the minister said that he has asked the Director of Health Services to seek an explanation from the Deputy Director of Health Services of Ramanathapuram District regarding the CMOas negligence. It may be noted that after becoming health minister of Tamil Nadu, Ma Subramanian has conducted several surprise visits to hospitals and Primary Health Centres and has taken immediate action against erring health department officials. During a surprise inspection a few months ago at a Pudukottai hospital, he suspended the Joint Director of Medical and Rural Health Services and transferred the CMO of the government hospital, Aanavasal after he found unhygienic conditions at a care home for people suffering from mental health issues. Agartala, Aug 6 : Despite unprecedented unrest and violence in Bangladesh, trade between Tripura and the neighbouring country has not fully stopped but largely decreased since Monday when Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India as the Army took control of the administration. Similar situations exist in Dawki (Meghalaya)-Tamabil (Bangladesh) and Sutarkandi (Assam)-Sheola (Bangladesh) trading points. Four northeastern states -- Tripura (856 km), Meghalaya (443 km), Mizoram (318 km) and Assam (263 km) -- share a 1,880 km border with Bangladesh. A senior official said that very few goods-laden trucks ferried various items between Tripura and Bangladesh through the Agartala (India)-Akhaura (Bangladesh) and Srimantapur (India)-Bibir Bazar (Bangladesh) trading points. On a normal day on average, 300-400 goods-laden trucks pass through these trading points, he added. Officials and traders are hopeful that normal trade between the two countries will resume soon with the normalisation of the situation. "It is mainly the government and traders of the neighbouring country who are benefited due to the trade between Bangladesh and the northeastern states of India. So it is expected that the traders there will put pressure on the concerned stakeholders to normalise the import-export business," Tapan Biswas, an exporter in Agartala, told IANS. An official of the Tripura government's Industry and Commerce Department said that the trade between Tripura and Bangladesh has increased substantially from Rs 230.24 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 715.98 crore in 2023-24. During the financial year 2023-24, the value of exports from Tripura to Bangladesh was Rs 12.31 crore while the import was at Rs 703.67. To boost trade, tourism and other economic activities, the Indian government has set up two Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) along the border in Akhaura (in West Tripura district) and Srimantapur in Sepahijala district. Besides these ICPs, four Land Custom Stations are operational in Tripura to facilitate trade between the two countries. The multi-purpose ICPs were also set up in Meghalaya's Dawki-Tamabil and Assam's Sutarkandi-Sheola trading points. After the Petrapole (India)-Benapole (Bangladesh) ICP in West Bengal, the Agartala-Akhaura ICP is the second largest trading point along the India-Bangladesh border in terms of value of annual trade. Bangladesh exports various fish, cement, food items, steel sheets, PVC pipes, soft drinks, and cotton waste to Tripura and other northeastern states while it imports commodities such as broken stone, maize, agarbatti, fresh ginger, dry chillies, vegetable seeds, and wood apple among others from the region. An official in Agartala-Akhaura ICP said that those Bangladesh nationals stranded in the northeastern states are going back to their country while some Indians, stranded there, are also returning. "However, we are discouraging Indians not to visit Bangladesh at the moment as violence continues in most of the districts of that country," he added. Officials of Bangladesh Assistant High Commissions in Guwahati and Agartala have said that they are unable to issue any visa for Bangladesh-bound people as the process is done online and their servers are not yet connected. Normally on a daily basis, several thousand people legally move from the northeastern states to Bangladesh and vice versa. Meanwhile, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said on Tuesday that all concerned officials are closely monitoring the situation along the border and no untoward incident has been reported so far. "I am keeping in touch with Delhi (Centre). We will act accordingly as per the instructions from Delhi..." he said. "I have asked the BSF and other concerned officials not to allow anyone from Bangladesh to enter Tripura," Saha added. The Chief Minister said that instructions were also given to the Border Security Force (BSF), Assam Rifles, Tripura police, Customs, state and central intelligence to work in coordination. Amidst the volatile situation and violence in Bangladesh, a high alert has been issued in areas bordering the neighbouring country. A top-ranking BSF officer in Agartala said that all senior officials and commandants have been camping at borders since Monday, and have been maintaining the highest vigilance along the frontiers. "Our troops are on high alert along the border with Bangladesh. We have almost sealed the border," the official, unwilling to be named, told IANS. He also said that in the backdrop of the chaos and unrest in Bangladesh, no untoward incident or infiltration bid so far has happened along the India-Bangladesh border areas. (Sujit Chakraborty can be contacted at sujit.c@ians.in) New Delhi: Pakistan is once again engulfed in a summer of protests, facing significant social upheaval with ongoing anti-state demonstrations in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). Although protests in Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK), including Gilgit Baltistan, may have momentarily waned, the state's response to the current unrest combines longstanding repressive tactics with new approaches. Islamabad's strategies seem heavily influenced by its subservient and dependent relationship with Beijing. The Pakistani security agencies have adopted new repressive methods to suppress domestic dissent, especially in Balochistan and KPK, areas where Pakistan has upheld a quasi-imperial political structure since the mid-20th century, following the British colonial partition of the Indian subcontinent. Pakistan's tactics closely resemble China's longstanding approach to suppressing social unrest, political resistance, and minority groups. Beijing is a symbol of extending authoritarianism into the digital realm through mechanisms such as the 'Great Firewall' and the 'Great Digital Wall of China'. The Chinese government has created one of the most restrictive media environments worldwide, implementing stringent censorship "to control information in the news, online, and on social media". Additionally, it has established numerous concentration camps in Xinjiang for the ethno-religious Uyghur Muslim minority. These camps, termed "re-education camps" by the state, hold millions of Uyghurs. The Chinese government also compels Uyghur women to marry Han Chinese men as part of its effort to suppress this ethnically and religiously distinct minority, which it views as a challenge to its homogenization agenda. Similarly, cultural assimilation tactics have been employed against Tibetan Buddhists to integrate them into the dominant Han Chinese culture. Drawing from China's methods to suppress minorities and stifle political dissent, Pakistan's military-dominated establishment, led by Shehbaz Sharif's political executive, has recently sanctioned the creation of a national digital firewall. Although the installation process began earlier, the Pakistani government officially acknowledged it on June 30, framing it as essential for filtering "propaganda and unwanted content" and countering "digital terrorism". This firewall, sourced from China, effectively grants the Pakistani state the authority to regulate social media platforms and restrict citizen access to crucial socio-political sites like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. It also allows government agencies to trace individual IP addresses, which Pakistani officials label as primary sources of ongoing "anti-state propaganda" targetting the country both within and beyond its borders. In addition to implementing a nationwide digital firewall, the Pakistani government has also pledged to regulate the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) within the country. VPNs enable users to circumvent local censorship by masking their locations to access blocked websites and apps. The new policy will require users to disclose their VPN usage to the Pakistan Telecom Authority (PTA), effectively defeating the purpose of these tools. Notably, Pakistan banned Twitter (now X) on February 17, 2024, and VPNs have been the sole method for Pakistani users to access the site and for human rights and opposition activists to report ongoing repression from Islamabad to Parachinar to Gwadar. While the installation of this digital firewall represents the latest addition to Pakistan's arsenal of information control tools, the state has a longstanding record of media censorship. Journalists who challenge the official narrative face daily harassment, with many being abducted or killed each year. In the past four months alone, eight journalists have been murdered in Pakistan for their political work, with government agencies often identified as the primary suspects. For example, prominent journalist Imran Riaz Khan was missing for nearly four months last year after criticising state institutions during the May 9 anti-state protests. Similarly, Arshad Sharif, who fled Pakistan due to his journalism, was killed in Kenya in 2023, allegedly under the orders of Pakistani intelligence agencies. Pakistan's ranking in the 2024 press freedom index has fallen to 152nd, down two places from 150th in 2023, edging closer to China, which is ranked 172nd. It seems Pakistan is striving to surpass even China in its quest to dominate the country's information landscape, aiming to create a dystopian authoritarian state where political repression, ethnic discrimination, and human rights abuses remain concealed from the global view. Beyond its efforts to control the information landscape, Pakistan has reportedly taken another step by building a network of detention centers across Balochistan and KPK, as uncovered in a recent media investigation. According to a report by Khaama Press News Agency, Pakistan's military establishment has greenlit the creation of new detention centres modeled after notorious sites such as Guantanamo Bay and Chinese concentration camps. These new facilities will complement the existing but undisclosed internment centers operated by Pakistani intelligence agencies, particularly the ISI, throughout KPK and Balochistan. This move comes despite a 2019 Peshawar High Court ruling that declared these types of facilities unconstitutional. These new measures take on added significance amid renewed protests in both provinces, highlighting Pakistan's troubling history of severe human rights abuses, including enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and sexual violence in Balochistan and the tribal regions of Waziristan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The introduction of these Chinese-inspired detention centers worsens the already dire situation regarding enforced disappearances in Balochistan, where thousands of Baloch men have vanished and remain unaccounted for after being abducted by state agencies over the years. Amidst the recent wave of protests in Balochistan, specifically during the Baloch National Gathering on July 28 organised by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) in Gwadar, the Pakistan Army has reportedly killed two Baloch protesters, injured dozens more, and arrested over a thousand individuals. Additionally, Pakistani authorities have abducted Sammi Deen Baloch and several other protest organisers, who remain unaccounted for according to local media. Both the Balochistan provincial government and Pakistan's federal government have claimed ignorance regarding Sammi Deen Baloch's whereabouts, with fears that he may be held in one of the new Chinese-inspired, Guantanamo-style internment camps. Sammi Baloch, a key figure in the BYC protest movement alongside Dr. Mahrang Baloch, has been targetted by the state. Local media reports indicate that Dr. Mahrang Baloch has received threats from the state, with orders to eliminate her for mobilising Baloch people in their fight against ongoing human rights violations, including enforced disappearances. Despite this, the effects of media censorship and social media control are becoming increasingly apparent as the Pakistani state clamps down on information from Balochistan amidst the widespread violence perpetrated by the Pakistan Army. This scenario highlights how Pakistan is adopting the repressive tactics of the Chinese state, using them to target Baloch and Pashtun communities, and rendering their struggle invisible while continuing to suppress their calls for an end to ongoing state abuses. Tourists at a beach in Phuket, Thailand, March 20, 2020. Photo by AFP A male tourist from Hong Kong and another from Kazakhstan have been confirmed dead after drowning on separate beaches in Phuket, Thailand. Last week, the 52-year-old from Hong Kong arrived on the island with his 15-year-old son and went swimming at Patong Beach, Thaiger reported. The son then saw his father drowning in a restricted zone marked with red no-swimming flags and called for help from lifesavers. The father was already unconscious after being pulled ashore, and later pronounced dead in hospital, the South China Morning Post reported. Thai authorities are working with relevant agencies to support his family. In a separate incident, a 57-year-old Kazakh man who arrived in Phuket to enjoy a holiday with his family of five was also witnessed drowning on Karon beach last week, Phuket News reported. After being taken to shore, he became unconscious and received CPR support. He was taken to a nearby hospital but died en route. Thailand has received over 20 million foreign tourists so far this year. Bhopal, Aug 6 : In a bid to create an atmosphere of patriotism on the occasion of Independence Day, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will organise 'har ghar tiranga' campaign in Madhya Pradesh. Bhopal, Aug 6 (IANS) In a bid to create an atmosphere of patriotism on the occasion of Independence Day, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will organise ahar ghar tirangaa campaign in Madhya Pradesh. The four-day campaign will be carried out between August 11 and 14, during which, the BJP workers will visit door-to-door and will also hand over a Tricolour to every house in Madhya Pradesh. A decision in this regard was taken during a meeting chaired by BJP's national co-organisational secretary Shivprakash at party headquarters in Bhopal on Tuesday. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, Deputy CMs Jagadish Devda and Rajendra Shukla, MP BJP chief V. D. Sharma the in-charge for the state Satish Upadhyay and several other prominent party leaders were in the meeting. "It has been decided that a massive campaign 'har ghar tiranga' will be carried out between August 11 and 14. BJP workers will unfurl the Tricolor in all 64,523 booths in Madhya Pradesh," MP BJP chief V. D. Sharma. Sharma added that the party has decided to distribute the Tricolours to 1.5 crore homes in Madhya Pradesh. "Besides distribution of the Tricolours, the BJP workers will also invite the local citizens for the Independent Day at booth level programmes," Sharma said. The BJP has also decided to organise programmes to recall the Partition of the country on August 14. "The youth of the new generation need to know what happened on August 14 and 15. A booklet (Vibhajan Vibhisika) will be distributed to the people," Sharma said. India celebrates Independence Day on August 15 and transforms the country into a painting filled with the colours of pride and patriotism. Besides unfurling the Tricolours at every government office and building, the Prime Minister addresses the nation from the historic Red Fort of Delhi on August 15 and talks about the vision for the country. Mumbai, Aug 6 : Shiv Sena Deputy Leader and Spokesperson, Sanjay Nirupam, on Tuesday strongly criticised Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray for his three-day visit to Delhi, saying that it exemplifies his helplessness as he is bowing to the Congress high command purely out of a desire for power. "The country remembers the time when national leaders sought discussions at Matoshree during the era of Hindu Hriday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray," said Nirupam. "While Pune and Nashik are grappling with floods, the state's Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, has been actively involved in relief efforts and measures for the flood victims. He even cancelled his tour to Delhi to focus on the crisis," said Nirupam. He criticised Thackeray for being preoccupied with his ambition for the Chief Minister's post, prioritising it over addressing the flood situation. Nirupam further highlighted the internal strife within the Maha Vikas Aghadi, noting the fierce competition among its leaders for the chief ministerial position. He mentioned that despite the improbability of them forming the government, leaders such as Nana Patole, Balasaheb Thorat, Jitendra Awhad, Anil Deshmukh, and Aaditya Thackeray were all vying for the top spot. "Uddhav Thackeray's visit to Delhi is an attempt to position himself as the chief contender for the chief ministership within the MVA," he said. Nirupam said that the NCP(SP) chief was unlikely to endorse Thackeray for the role, leading him to seek support from other leaders within the INDIA bloc to exert pressure on Sharad Pawar. Thane MP Naresh Mhaske and Shiv Sena legislator Sanjay Shirsat have also slammed Thackeray for his Delhi visit. On the Waqf Board issue, Nirupam stated that, after the Indian Army and the Railways, the Waqf Board controls the most swathes of land, with nearly eight lakh acres under its jurisdiction. He accused land mafia of exploiting the Waqf Board and looting land worth crores of rupees under the guise of religion. "The Central government has introduced the Waqf Board Amendment Bill to bring transparency to its functioning, but this has faced opposition from the INDIA bloc. Why has Uddhav Thackeray remained silent on a Bill aimed at preventing the looting of the Waqf Board, which is depleting the nation's wealth?" he asked. He noted that the Sachar Commission, appointed during Dr Manmohan Singh's tenure as Prime Minister, had recommended amendments to the Waqf Board Act, but the Congress ignored these suggestions and granted arbitrary powers to the Waqf Board. This oversight is now being addressed by the National Democratic Alliance government, he said. Jammu, Aug 6 : An encounter is underway between the security forces and a group of terrorists in J&K's Udhampur district on Tuesday, officials said. Officials said that an encounter between the security forces and the terrorists began in the Basantgarh area of Udhampur. aAfter specific input was gleaned regarding movement in the area, a SADO (Search and Destroy Operation) was launched in the wee hours today by our parties; contact has been established with a group of terrorists in Khaned area of PS Basantgarh. Ops underway", DIG, Udhampur-Reasi, Rayees Mohammad Bhat, said in a post on X. Udhampur is one of the mountainous districts of the Jammu division where foreign terrorists have been reported to be hiding in the dense forests. In order to eradicate terrorism from the hilly districts of the Jammu division including Poonch, Rajouri, Doda, Kathua, Reasi and Udhampur districts, the army has deployed over 4,000 soldiers, including elite Para commandos and those trained in mountain warfare. The terrorists hiding in the dense forests of these districts have carried out hit-and-run attacks against the army, paramilitary forces, and civilians. The entire anti-terrorism strategy was revisited at the high-level security meetings chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. Police has detained around 40 people on suspicion of having harboured, helped or acted as guides for the terrorists. Two of these detained suspects have confessed to having accompanied the terrorists when they carried out ambush attacks in the Doda area. The security forces are aggressively carrying out operations in these districts to target the terrorists, their over ground workers (OGWs), sympathisers, and harbourers. Washington, August 6 : US Vice-President Kamala Harris has picked Tim Walz, the Democratic Governor of Minnesota, as her running mate, according to multiple media reports. Walz, 60 is a former schoolteacher, a military veteran, a member of the House of Representatives, two-term Governor and, in recent days, the man who coined the word "weird" to describe the Republican nominee for President, former President Donald Trump and his running mate Senator JD Vance and their campaign and their views that was quickly adopted by the Harris campaign and her allies. Walz will make his first appearance along with Harris, who secured on Monday night, the official nomination of the Democratic party for President, at an election rally in Philadelphia later on Tuesday and then go with her on a tour of battleground states. --IANS yrj/vd Patna, Aug 6 : A Bihar cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar approved 36 proposals here on Tuesday. At the meeting, the Council of Ministers agreed to create 102 posts of lower class clerks in the regional office under the Transport Department. Besides, it also approved the creation of 4315 posts at various levels in the Patna Medical College Hospital. The key feature of the meeting was the approval for a toy train in Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, Patna. The Cabinet has allocated nearly Rs 10 crore for the project. The toy train will be operated by the Danapur Railway Division. Authorization was given for the transport department to form a committee to set the maximum speed limits on various national highways, state highways, roads under the road construction department, and roads of the rural works department to reduce accidents due to high-speed vehicles. The state government has also increased the authorised share capital of the Bihar State Film Development and Finance Corporation Limited from Rs 1 crore to Rs 5 crore. The Nitish Kumar government approved several key proposals like the Bihar Statistics Cadre Rules 2024 and the Bihar Purchase Preference Policy 2024, Bihar Employees State Insurance Scheme, Service Condition Rules 2024 and others. Rs 3611.45 crore was approved for the operation, repair and maintenance of 70,157 district supply schemes in 58,003 rural wards under the Panchayati Raj Department at a standard rate of Rs 108,372 per water supply scheme per year for five years. The PHED department will oversee this scheme. Earlier on July 19, the cabinet had approved 27 proposals, including the Bihar Film Promotion Policy 2024. Mumbai, Aug 6 : In the wake of the civil unrest in Bangladesh, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday spoke to the Ministry of External Affairs for the safe and early return of students from the state stuck there. Shindeas intervention came amid questions being raised about the safety of foreign nationals in the neighbouring country, especially the students stranded in the troubled areas. "We give the highest priority to the safety of our students. All necessary measures are being taken for their safe return to their homeland. The state government stands with the families of the affected students during these challenging times,aa Shinde said. Confirming the development, the Chief Ministeras Office (CMO) said that Shinde has interacted with the Ministry of External Affairs and highlighted the need for immediate action given the seriousness of the situation in Bangladesh. The Chief Minister also urged the MEA to provide all possible assistance to the affected students, suggesting that the students be relocated to safer places to ensure their immediate safety and also speed up the process for their safe return to India. To reach out to the students from the state stranded in Bangladesh and provide immediate assistance to them, a list has been compiled and submitted to the External Affairs Ministry. The state government has also constituted a team to monitor the situation there and be in touch with the Central authorities and the affected families. Coordination is being done with the Indian Embassy in Bangladesh so that measures can be taken for the safety of the students. Meanwhile, making a suo-moto statement in the Rajya Sabha on the ongoing situation in Bangladesh, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Tuesday expressed India's deep concern over the attacks on minorities, their businesses, and temples at "multiple locations" in the neighbouring country. Jaishankar's remarks came a day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as the Prime Minister and reached India following massive violence in Dhaka and several other parts of Bangladesh. "Properties of individuals associated with the regime were torched across the country. What was particularly worrying was that minorities, their businesses, and temples also came under attack at multiple locations. The full extent of this is still not clear," the EAM said while detailing the events since August 4 when things took a "very serious turn" in Bangladesh. "There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students. The bulk of the students, however, have already returned to India in July on the advice of the High Commission," the Minister said. Washington, Aug 6 : US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin in a joint Op-ed have described the Biden administration's Indo-Pacific strategy as a latticework of bilateral and multilateral ties in which the US and India are "investing together across sectors that will shape the future" such as Artificial Intelligence and semiconductors in addition to cooperation as members of the Quad. The two top officials wrote in The Washington Post that President Joe Biden's transformation of the US Indo-Pacific strategy and the results it has borne remain the "most important and least-told stories of the foreign policy strategy advanced by President Biden and Vice President Harris". They wrote in the Op-ed, which came close on the heels of the eighth ministerial meeting of the Quad that took place in Tokyo on July 29, that the Biden administration changed America's hub-and-spoke relations with Indo-Pacific countries to "not just to strengthen our existing one-to-one relationships in Asia but also to bring those partners together in new and innovative way". Blinken and Austin cited the elevation of the Quad to the level of a summit of leaders, the lunch of AUKUS, a security partnership between Australia, the UK and the US, a three-way summit hosted by the US with South Korea and Japan, another three-way arrangement with Japan and the Philippines as the changes wrought by the Biden administration. "We elevated the regional grouping known as the Quad -- Australia, India, Japan and the US -- to deliver hundreds of millions of lifesaving coronavirus vaccines, mobilize millions of dollars in digital-infrastructure investments, and advance the global clean energy transition," they wrote, adding the Indo-Pacific Economic Forum (IPEF), whose 13 members include India, to the list. Along with creating and upgrading multilateral ties with Indo-Pacific countries, the administration doubled down on the bilateral ties, "India and the United States are investing together across the sectors that will shape the future -- from semiconductors to artificial intelligence, to clean energy," the officials wrote, referring to the US-India initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET). US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan travelled to India in June for a meeting with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval for a second round of talks on the initiative. The two officials described the Indo-Pacific as a challenge when President Biden took office in January 2021. "America's standing in this critical part of the world was at its lowest point in decades. The region was still reeling from the Covid-19 pandemic. Our allies and partners feared that the United States had become an unreliable friend. An increasingly aggressive China was taking advantage of America's turn inward to advance its alternative vision of the world -- a vision hostile to US interests." Significantly, the two officials confined their concerns about China's aggression to its behaviour at the sea. "We're pushing back together against China's dangerous brinkmanship in the region's waterways," they wrote, referring to China's island and maritime disputes in the South China Sea. At another point in the Op-ed, they wrote about "China's dangerous and provocative actions at sea". The reference was to the South China Sea. There was no reference to China's aggression in its land disputes, such as the one with India. Hyderabad, Aug 6 : Telangana's Agriculture Minister Tummana Nageswara Rao on Tuesday reiterated that the state government is committed to waiving crop loans of up to Rs 2 lakh of all eligible farmers. A day after opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) launched a helpline number for farmers who have not received the loan waiver amounts and accused the Congress government of selectively implementing the scheme, the minister said farmers who have not yet received the money need not worry. Stating that loan waiver money was not credited to the bank accounts of 30,000 farmers due to technical problems, he said loans of all eligible farmers would be waived by plugging the loopholes. Stressing that the Congress government is waiving off the crop loans as per its Warangal declaration, Nageswara Rao said despite difficulties, the government was going ahead to fulfil its promise. He alleged that the opposition parties were making baseless allegations against the government. He claimed that the previous BRS government planned to implement the farm loan waiver by selling away Outer Ring Road (ORR) for Rs 7,000 crore. He also said farmers feel that crop loan waiver was not implemented properly in the past. "They failed to properly implement crop loan waiver but are now criticising the Congress government. They are trying to use farmers for political mileage," he said. The minister said loans taken by farmers during the last five years were being waived. "Even if the farmers don't have passbooks, the government is waiving their loans on the basis of white ration cards," he said. Nageswara Rao said the Congress government was implementing farm loan waiver in three phases. The third phase to waive farm loans of more than Rs.1.50 lakh and up to Rs.2 lakh will be launched by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on August 15 at Wyra in Khammam district. On July 30, the Chief Minister launched the second phase of the scheme, under which crop loans between Rs 1 and Rs 1.5 lakh are being waived. For the second phase, Rs 6,198 crore is being deposited in the bank accounts of 6.4 lakh farmers. Under the second phase, crop loans of up to Rs.1 lakh were waived. The Chief Minister said under the first phase, Rs 6,035 crore were deposited in the bank accounts of 11.34 lakh farmers. In both the first and second phases, the loans of 17.75 lakh farmers have been waived. For this, the government spent Rs 12,225 crore. The government will be spending a total of Rs 31,000 crore on crop loan waiver in three phases. The final phase will be completed by August 31. He claimed no state in independent India has so far waived farmers' loans on such a large scale. The Congress announced the Farmers' Declaration for waiver of farm loans on May 6, 2022, in Warangal. Bengaluru, Aug 6 : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday said that the BJP's 'Mysuru Chalo' padyatra (foot march) is against the poor. "BJP and JD-S's padyatra is not against me or Siddaramaiah. They are marching against the poor. People gave Congress 43 per cent of the votes. Mandya gave us seven seats. We have successfully implemented five guarantees. The BJP is trying to bring down the government to stop these guarantees," the Deputy Chief Minister said while addressing a gathering at the 'Janandolan' convention in Mandya. He said that it is not in the fate of Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy and former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa to bring down the Congress government. "It is not written in their fate to bring down the government. Even Leader of the Opposition (LoP) R. Ashoka does not have the capacity. State President B.Y. Vijayendra was elected to the Assembly because of the Congress. Had we given the ticket to Nagaraj Gowda, Vijayendra would not have won," the Deputy Chief Minister said. He said that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is a leader of the backward classes under whom Congress is working. "It is not possible to bring down our government. The Congress government will continue for the next 10 years," the Deputy Chief Minister said. He said that the foot march is a march for the redemption of their sins. "There is no substance in the foot march. That's why the media is only focusing on me and Kumaraswamy," he said. He also criticised Kumaraswamy for failing to get approval for the Mekedatu project. "He had said he (Kumaraswamy) would get approval in just five minutes by holding Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The BJP and Kumaraswamy should respond to what happened to the Mekedatu project. I demand answers made by these alliance leaders," he said. He added that the state government has released 148 TMC of water to Tamil Nadu, adding that the state government had invited Kumaraswamy for a meeting on the Cauvery water issue, which the Union Minister refused. "Kumaraswamy had time to take part in a procession in Pandavapura where he ate non-vegetarian food. However, the Cauvery issue, farmers, and the state's welfare were not important for him," the Deputy Chief Minister said. Dhaka, Aug 6 : Nahid Islam, one of the main coordinators of the anti-quota protests that eventually led to the resignation of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday, has emerged as a key figure in the formation of an interim government in the country. It was reported that Islam, along with Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, was locked in significant discussions Tuesday evening on the structure of the new government following Hasina's departure from the country. On Monday, as chaos ruled the streets of Dhaka, Islam had told mediapersons that he will propose an interim national government "within the next 24 hours" which will also have a fair representation from the student community and members of the civil society. A student of Sociology at Dhaka University, 26-year-old Islam was in October 2023 made the Secretary of the 31-member central committee of a student body that also included Akhtar Hossain, a former social services secretary of the Dhaka University Central Students' Union. As a student-led protest kicked off following the Bangladesh Supreme Court's decision in July 2024 to cancel a 2018 government declaration abolishing all quotas for first and second-class government jobs in Bangladesh, Islam, sporting the Bangladesh flag as a bandana, gradually became the poster boy of the movement. In a televised address to the nation on the evening of July 17 following deaths and casualties during clashes between protestors and police, Hasina repeatedly urged the students "not to fall prey to incitements by the vested quarters" who were bent on "unleashing a reign of terror taking advantage of the situation". Two days later, Islam, who had severely criticised the Hasina-led Awami League party, was reportedly abducted, released and abducted again a week later. Meanwhile, the government formed a judicial inquiry committee headed by a High Court Justice to investigate the violence and deaths. Two Cabinet ministers were also assigned to hold talks with the protesting students. However, a reign of terror was unleashed across the country in the following weeks which the ruling government said was supported by anti-state elements and led by the armed cadres of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its "extremist ally" the Jamaat-E-Islami along with its student wing, Islami Chhatra Shibir (ICS). The Hasina government believed that the kind of "systematic vandalization" of public properties required "adequate expertise" which the students do not possess. However, as things ultimately panned out on Monday with Hasina leaving the country, Islam was hailed as a hero by thousands of supporters all over the country. Within the next few hours, he was also engaged in discussions with the country's Army chief and making efforts to convince Muhammad Yunus to become the head of the interim government in the country. The most fundamental right of democratic governance is the right that secures all other rights the right to vote. In a recent address, U.S. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco said that right is increasingly under threat. As the horrific assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump shows, a clear and present danger is that of violence against public officials. Another dire danger is the threat posed by foreign malign influence: These malign influence operations can take many forms false personas, fabricated and visive narratives, and synthetic content disseminated through technology like deepfakes. Russia remains the dominant threat to our elections, said Deputy Attorney General Monaco, with Putin and his proxies using increasingly sophisticated techniques: Theyre targeting specific voter demographics and swing-state voters in an effort to manipulate presidential and congressional election outcomes. Theyre intent on co-opting unwitting Americans on social media to push narratives advancing Russian interests. Theyre working to diminish American support for Ukraine. Iran, said Deputy Attorney General Monaco, is also accelerating its malign efforts: Relying on vast webs of online personas and propaganda, Iranian government actors are using the Israel-Gaza conflict as kerosene to fuel tensions on social media with some even creating accounts posing as activists and calling for protest. I want to be clear: Tehran is working to influence the presidential election. China looms large as well, Deputy Attorney General Monaco said. Intelligence shows that PRC influence actors are using social media to portray democracies as chaotic and to sow division in the United States. The PRC hopes to expand its ability to collect and monitor Americans data on our social media platforms to better understand and eventually manipulate public opinion. Deputy Attorney General Monaco said that through the FBIs Foreign Influence Task Force, the Department of Justice is identifying and counteracting foreign operations targeting U.S. elections. In addition, our strategy involves sharing threat information with companies that operate social media platforms, so that these companies may take their own independent actions to mitigate those threats. Deputy Attorney General Monaco declared, It will take all our efforts to protect our elections and secure our democracy. Chandigarh, Aug 6 : Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced on Tuesday that the commission for 'arthiyas' (middlemen) for paddy has been increased by 20 per cent from Rs 45.88 to Rs 55 per quintal. He said the government would compensate for the losses incurred by the 'arthiyas' due to wheat shortage. For this, he announced compensation of approximately Rs 12 crore. The Chief Minister made these announcements while addressing a meeting with members of the representatives of the Haryana State Grain Market Arthiya Association and Haryana Rice Millers and Dealers Association at his residence. During the meeting, the issue of wheat shortage was raised by the 'arthiyas. They apprised the Chief Minister that since 1966 no government has ever compensated for this shortage, which averages around 0.20 per cent every year. "The shortage in the previous Rabi season was 0.28 per cent. Responding to this demand, the CM said the government would compensate for the increased shortage of 0.08 per cent. "The government will cover the Rs 12 crore loss due to this shortage." He said the last date for delivering rice to the FCI for 2023-24 was June 30. Those who delivered by this date have been given a Rs 10 bonus by the government. Some millers faced issues due to storage shortage, therefore the government has decided to extend the last date to August 31. The Haryana government will provide a Rs 10 bonus for rice distributed in July and August. The Chief Minister said as part of making the state stray cattle-free, Rs 600 per cow and Rs 800 per bull would be paid immediately to bring stray cattle to their gaushalas. (cow shelters) Mumbai, Aug 6 : Tata Power on Tuesday reported a 31 per cent jump in net profit at Rs 1,189 crore for the April-June quarter of 2024-25, compared to Rs 906 crore for the same quarter of the previous financial year. The company said this is its highest-ever growth in quarterly net profit "on the back of strong operational performance across all its businesses of Generation, Transmission & Distribution, and Renewables". These businesses contributed 84 per cent of the net profit in Q1FY25, compared to 72 per cent in the same period in FY24. Tata Poweras revenue during the quarter rose 12 per cent year-on-year to a record high of Rs 16,810 crore, and EBITDA grew 11 per cent to Rs 3,350 crore in the reported quarter. "A solid order pipeline is propelling this all-round business growth. The company has a clean and green installed capacity of 6.1 GW as of Q1FY25, accounting for 41 per cent of the capacity, with another 5.3 GW under execution. The combined order pipeline for utility-scale EPC and solar rooftop, including group captive, is Rs 15,500 crore," a Tata Power statement said. The company said it is well poised to garner a 20 per cent market share in the residential rooftop segment on the back of its new solar manufacturing facility and a 500+ strong pan-India channel partner network. The company is working towards large-scale RTC availability by harnessing the vast potential of hydropower through the development of the 600 MW Khorlochhu power project in Bhutan, and the upcoming 2800 MW pumped hydro storage plants in Maharashtra, the statement said. The Odisha distribution business has reduced AT & C losses considerably through enhanced operational efficiency. The four Odisha discoms continue to post robust EBITDA, registering 20 per cent growth in Q1FY25. The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission has recognized regulatory assets worth Rs 5,788 Crore for Tata Power Delhi Distribution Ltd, the statement added. Tata Power CEO Praveer Sinha said: "We have commenced FY25 on a strong note, as we book our all-time high and 19th consecutive quarter of PAT (profit after tax) growth. All our businesses have grown profitably on the back of operational efficiency, execution excellence, and sustained business momentum." New Delhi: This year, China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) has undergone significant changes, including purges and restructuring efforts. Since Xi Jinping assumed office in 2012, the PLA, the world's largest military force, has been under his 'modernisation' programme, aiming to transform into a fully modern military power by 2027. This modernisation plan involves the development of advanced military hardware, including modern drones, missiles, fighter jets, and warships. This intent is also reflected in this year's defence budget of $231.36 billion, marking a 7.2 per cent increase for the third consecutive year. However, Xi's ambitious plans have coincided with a rise in corruption cases within the PLA, notably involving top-level officials, a first in Communist China's history. This situation raises the question: does corruption within the PLA signify a legitimacy issue for Xi Jinping, and is this why he harbours distrust towards the PLA? Since assuming office in 2012, corruption has been a significant challenge for the Chinese President. Xi Jinping initiated an anti-corruption campaign by establishing the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), positioning it as the primary body to investigate corruption within the Communist Party. This campaign extended even to senior military officials, as Xi pledged to target both "tigers and flies." Consequently, the number of prosecutions against high-ranking officers increased sharply following the CCDI's inception in 2013. The campaign's severity is evident from the removal of over 100 senior PLA officials from their posts in 2017 alone. Additionally, the CCDI is believed to have purged a total of 294 senior PLA officials to date. There was a 40 per cent rise in corruption investigations last year compared to the previous year, including 45 senior officials, of whom 27 are retired. Investigations of corruption cases involving military officials in China are typically conducted behind closed doors. The sudden purges and disappearances of senior officials, particularly notable since last year, indicate the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) preference for keeping graft cases within the PLA, which directly pledges allegiance to the CCP, under wraps. Former Defence Minister Li Shangfu vanished from public view for two months, with his removal only being officially announced seven months after his appointment as Defence Minister in March 2023. A month prior to this announcement, eight other senior officials were reported to be under investigation for suspected faulty arms procurement, although the CCP provided no official explanation. Subsequently, the removal of nine senior PLA officials was announced, again without any explanation. The purges and abrupt replacements of Commander Li Yuchao, Commissar Xu Zhongbo, and deputies Li Guangbin and Zhang Zhenzhong of the PLA Rocket Force (PLARF) on suspected embezzlement and espionage charges since June last year further highlight the deep-rooted graft within Xi's PLA. Last month, former Defence Ministers Wei Fenghe (2018-2023) and Li Shangfu (March-October 2023) were dismissed on charges of "serious violations of discipline and law" (corruption), including seeking personal benefits, resisting investigation, and accepting large bribes. Both ministers were not only stripped of their military ranks but also expelled from their positions in the party. The other eight senior officials purged in September last year were also expelled from their National People's Congress membership. This implies that these former officials could face imprisonment if found guilty of the criminal charges against them, as they no longer have the immunity provided by their NPC membership. Significantly, the positions held by those purged from the PLA are of interest. As previously mentioned, top officials of the PLA Rocket Force (PLARF), including Commander Li Yuchao, Commissar Xu Zhongbo, and Deputies Li Guangbin and Zhang Zhenzhong, were removed from their roles last year. Former Defence Minister Wei Fenghe also served as PLARF's first commander. The frequency of these purges indicates that PLARF has become a focal point for corruption. PLARF, an elite military branch, oversees the PLA's nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, which Xi Jinping has described as the "core of strategic deterrence, a strategic support to the country's major power status, and a foundation for national security." Xi's New Year message, envisioning China's reunification "on both sides of the Taiwan Strait" in line with his goal of 'Chinese rejuvenation,' alongside escalating territorial disputes in the South China Sea this year, suggests his intention of possibly engaging in future conflicts for territorial gains. Therefore, the role of PLARF is more critical than ever, and the surge in corruption cases poses a hindrance to Xi's ambitions. This is reflected in his emphasis on the need for party self-reform in his political doctrine. Li Shangfu, before becoming Defence Minister, headed the PLA's Equipment Development Department (2017-2022). Issues in China's defence procurement have been cited as reasons for the recent purges. According to a 2018 study by China's Naval University of Engineering, the PLA's equipment procurement was involved in 'bid rigging' practices, negatively impacting the PLA's combat capabilities. A US intelligence report highlighted instances of Chinese missiles filled with water instead of fuel, making them ineffective for launching, and entire fields of silos with improper lids in Western China, showcasing how corruption in the Chinese military is undermining Xi's military modernisation efforts. In this context, the replacement of the PLA Strategic Support Force (SSF) with the Information Support Force (ISF) in April is significant. Established by Xi Jinping in 2015, the PLA SSF was part of an effort to reform the PLA, alongside the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Rocket Force, all commanded by full theatre-grade generals. As a combat force prioritising national security, the SSF integrated cyber, space, electronic, and psychological warfare. However, the restructuring of the SSF into the ISF is believed to be driven by potential corruption cases. General Ju Qiansheng, former SSF Commander, and Lieutenant General Shang Hong, former SSF Deputy Commander, disappeared from public view earlier this year, raising suspicions that their absences may be linked to corruption investigations. The transition to the ISF represents a subtle shift in Xi's military strategy. With the establishment of the ISF, the PLA now comprises four services; Army, Navy, Air Force, and Rocket Forceand four branchesaerospace, cyberspace, ISF, and Joint Logistic Support Force. The ISF was created to enhance informationisation as a new strategic arm of the PLA, tasked with building a network information system to meet modern warfare requirements. However, unlike the SSF's leader, the new ISF head, Lieutenant General Bi Yi, is of deputy-theatre-command-leader grade, which appears to be a demotion in rank. The purges within the PLA and Xi Jinping's unwavering objective to eradicate corruption highlight a disruption in the stability of his leadership. This poses a significant challenge for the Chinese President at a time when his territorial ambitions in Taiwan and the South China Sea are at their peak, necessitating not only the enhanced combat capability of the PLA but also loyal and obedient officials ready to engage in warfare at his command. However, disloyalty among PLA members has been another obstacle, as seen in the case of General Liu Yazhou, a senior Air Force Commander, who faced a death sentence for "serious economic corruption" after expressing disagreement with Xi's military aggression policy regarding Taiwan. These military purges can thus be interpreted as Xi's way of punishing dissenters within the PLA, reflecting his leadership instability and failure to appoint loyalists to top positions despite his personal endorsement. The placement of the ISF under the direct control of the Central Military Commission, China's top military body headed by Xi, is intended to enhance his oversight of factions within the PLA. Xi aims for the ISF to "resolutely obey the party's command" and ensure its members remain "absolutely loyal, pure, and reliable." Therefore, the purges and subsequent restructuring within the PLA are rooted in Xi's issues of legitimacy and his distrust of the PLA. Kolkata, Aug 6 : Indian Coast Guard (ICG) units along the West Bengal and Odisha coastlines have increased vigil after the toppling of the government in Bangladesh. Though no specific instructions have arrived as yet from the ICG headquarters in Delhi, all units under the Headquarters North East Region, based in Kolkata, are on standby to deal with any unauthorised movement from across the Maritime Boundary Line (MBL) between India and Bangladesh. "Our assets at sea are maintaining constant vigil while aircraft from Kolkata and Bhubaneswar are also carrying out sorties. This is essential to prevent any attempt to cross over into Indian territorial waters by unauthorised people," said a senior ICG official from New Delhi. Till a few days ago, there was a bonhomie between the ICG and the Bangladesh Coast Guard. The two forces have also participated in several table-top and physical exercises to jointly tackle accidents at sea due to bad weather, piracy, smuggling, and pollution. After the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government on Monday and the subsequent takeover by the Army, communication lines have been severed. There is a possibility that non-state actors would take advantage of the situation in Bangladesh to carry out a strike on assets along India's eastern seaboard. Apart from this, Bangladeshi nationals, fearing persecution in their own country, may also try to enter India by sea. The ICG has ships based at Haldia in West Bengal and Paradip in Odisha. All the units have been directed to remain prepared for quick mobilisation. New Delhi, Aug 6 : The month-long turmoil in Bangladesh reached a crescendo this weekend as the students' stir not only resulted in overthrowing the Sheikh Hasina-led government but also forced the Prime Minister to flee her own country to seek a safe refuge elsewhere. The nationwide anarchy and mayhem, following Sheikh Hasinaas ouster is set to have far-reaching implications, transcending Bangladeshas borders but the issue of Western powers meddling in developing countriesa affairs has already started furore in political circles. India, being the immediate neighbour is concerned over the disturbing developments and is keeping a close watch on the fluid situation there. Sheikh Hasinaas ouster comes as a setback for India too as the two nations shared good ties and relationship in the formeras tenure while the same wobbled when Khaleda Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) held the reins of the country, along with radical outfit Jamaat-e-Islami. Sheikh Hasina is currently staying in Delhi and is expected to fly to Britain, in the next few days to seek political asylum. The demonstrations and protests by Bangladeshi students began over the job quota system proposed by Sheikh Hasina in her fourth term this year, after winning the elections by a landslide margin of 224 out of 300 seats. The studentsa stir which began in June 2024 intensified and took a violent form over her alleged profane remarks. The demonstrations, this Sunday turned out to be one of the deadliest in the nationas history as nearly 100 protestors reportedly died during clashes with the police. Sheikh Hasina resigned from the post and escaped the country on a military plane. The Dhaka crisis is apparently aided and driven by foreign powers, the Western nations in particular. Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina in previous interactions with media persons also shed light on such interventions by awhite personsa and accused them of interfering in the countryas internal affairs. The ransacking of Bangladesh PMas office comes as a grim reminder of what unfolded in Sri Lanka, a year ago. Similar apprehensions are also being raised about such a possibility in India. Rather, the countryas complex diversity makes it more avulnerablea for foreign conspirators to trigger similar chaos, by engaging the anti-government forces. While the Modi governmentas nation-first policy remains a strong unifier, the attitude and stand of Opposition parties on some issues of national importance does call for closer scrutiny. Itas this dissent that the foreign powers thrive on and exploit the situation to engineer a revolt within. To remember a few incidents, Congress leaders while on foreign shores claimed that democracy was under threat in India under the current regime and also demanded their intervention to protect the same. The CAA protests, endorsed by Opposition parties, resulted in bloody riots in the heart of the capital leading to more than 50 deaths. Months-long stir was based on the complete falsehood that the Muslim community would be deprived of their rights if this law came into effect. The farmers' protest, which was to lodge their protest against the controversial farm laws was also exploited by the Opposition parties for political gains. The removal of the national flag from the Red Fort by the agitators allowed many to point fingers at the involvement of some Khalistani elements, funded from foreign countries. The students' stir in Bangladesh, which started with demonstrations assumed a violent form and also reeked of a deliberate plot as the pattern of vandalism showed that some extremist force (JeM) and organised powers (international hand) were behind all this. Back home, past instances like anti-CAA stir, farmers' protests or falsified campaigns aimed at befooling the public, do raise alarm bells and call for greater preparedness against any such evil conspiracy by foreign powers. Patna, Aug 6 : The Economic Offences Unit (EOU) of the Bihar Police, which oversees cybercrime, has urged candidates for the upcoming constable recruitment test to be vigilant against cyber fraudsters. EOU DIG Manavjit Singh Dhillon outlined the administrative measures in place for the exam, which begins on Wednesday. Last year's exam was cancelled after the answer keys for the first phase went viral on social media, resulting in a nine-month delay. Dhillon mentioned that the EOU has investigated multiple paper leak incidents and now has a comprehensive database. They have received reports of candidates being approached by gangs promising leaked papers and answer keys in exchange for money. To counter these fraudulent activities, the EOU has implemented a stringent monitoring plan for the examination. "The EOU has provided specific mobile and WhatsApp numbers for candidates and parents to report any suspicious activity related to the constable recruitment test. We urged people not to spread rumours or misleading messages about the exam. The contact numbers and email IDs for reporting are 8544428404, spcyber_bih@gov.in, and cybercell_bih@nic.in," Dhillon said. "The exam, initially scheduled for three phases last year, was cancelled after the answer keys for the first phase were leaked on social media on October 1, 2023. Given the recurring issue of question paper leaks in Bihar, the EOU is on high alert and actively monitoring social media and phone communications. Several advisories have been issued to ensure the security and integrity of the upcoming examination," he said. In an advisory issued by the EOU, the public has been urged to report any instance of question papers or answer sheets being made viral on social media. They have been asked to immediately provide information about the person posting such content and relevant social media details to the nearest police or cyber police station for verification and prompt action. Additionally, information related to cyber fraud through fake calls can be reported on the helpline number 1930 of the NCRB portal. Bengaluru, Aug 6 : Social activist T.J. Abraham on Tuesday said that he is confident that Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot will give consent to investigate Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land case. "I am confident that the Governor would give consent to investigate the Chief Minister in the case," Abraham told media persons after meeting the Governor after returning from a visit to New Delhi. "I provided additional clarification to the Governor regarding the complaint. I have given sufficient explanation to the Governor. I am totally confident that the consent would be given by him," he said. Abraham said that the Governor has not issued a second show cause notice to Siddaramaiah and no additional documents were provided on Tuesday to the Governor. "If the Governor is asking for clarifications, it is an indication of his interest in pursuing the matter further. I had requested time from the Governor last Thursday and was asked to come today, which I did and provided the necessary clarifications," he said. He said that there were no complaints against him and challenged the government to find any cases against him. "The show cause notice was issued to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah based on my complaint. However, after a three-hour Cabinet meeting, the government argued that the Governor's notice was incorrect and claimed I was not correct. All allegations against Siddaramaiah are valid," he said. Bengaluru, Aug 6 : Social activist T.J. Abraham on Tuesday said that he is confident that Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot will give consent to investigate Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land case. "I am confident that the Governor would give consent to investigate the Chief Minister in the case," Abraham told media persons after meeting the Governor. "I provided additional clarification to the Governor regarding the complaint. I have given sufficient explanation to the Governor. I am totally confident that the consent would be given by him," he said. Abraham said that the Governor has not issued a second show cause notice to Siddaramaiah and no additional documents were provided on Tuesday to the Governor. "If the Governor is asking for clarifications, it is an indication of his interest in pursuing the matter further. I had requested time from the Governor last Thursday and was asked to come today, which I did and provided the necessary clarifications," he said. He said that there were no complaints against him and challenged the government to find any cases against him. "The show cause notice was issued to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah based on my complaint. However, after a three-hour Cabinet meeting, the government argued that the Governor's notice was incorrect and claimed I was not correct. All allegations against Siddaramaiah are valid," he said. Amaravati, Aug 6 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday discussed setting up a YouTube Academy in the state with the company leadership. The Chief Minister revealed on 'X' that he was delighted to connect with YouTube global CEO Neal Mohan and Google APAC Head Sanjay Gupta online. "We discussed setting up a YouTube Academy in Andhra Pradesh, in collaboration with local partners, to foster AI, content development, skill development and certification programmes," the Chief Minister posted. "Furthermore, we explored avenues for providing technical support for the Media City initiative in our capital, Amaravati," he added. Media City is one of the nine theme cities planned by Naidu as part of Amaravati state capital. Naidu's discussions with the YouTube CEO and Google APAC head are part of his efforts to restore investor confidence and Andhra Pradesh's brand image. Ever since he assumed office as the chief minister in June, Naidu has been holding meetings with the CEOs of various companies and key business leaders to attract investment. Alleging that the previous government led by Jagan Mohan Reddy damaged Andhra Pradesh's brand image, Naidu has vowed to reconstruct the same. He has revived plans to build Amaravati as the greenfield capital city. He has declared that the development of the state capital will go ahead with the existing master plan but will incorporate modern advancements. The previous government had stopped works in Amaravati in 2019 and announced its plans to build three state capitals with Visakhapatnam as the administrative capital. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister on Tuesday held a review meeting on infrastructure and investments. Chandrababu Naidu directed the officials to revive all the prestigious infrastructure projects launched during 2014-19 but stalled by the previous government of YSR Congress Party. He asked officials to take steps for progress on setting up the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board, AP Maritime Infrastructure Development Corporation, special purpose vehicles for various projects, AP Inland WaterWays Authority. The Chief Minister directed officials to expeditiously complete the development of all ports and shipping harbours without giving any scope for controversies. Kolkata, Aug 6 : All planned cultural events at the Bangladesh Bhavan on the campus of Visva Bharati University in West Bengal's Shantiniketan have been postponed for an indefinite period because of the continuing unrest in the neighbouring country. Bangladesh Bhavan is a centre for research on the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. The facility inaugurated in 2018 also provides scope for research on the literary works of revolutionary poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. Sources said a screening of the Shyam Benegal-directed biopic on Sheikh Mujibur Rahman -- 'Mujib - The Making of a Nation' -- was scheduled to be screened at the Bangladesh Bhavan this month, which now stands postponed indefinitely owing to the volatile situation in the neighbouring country. A cloud of uncertainty also hangs over other cultural programmes planned at the Bangladesh Bhavan this year, including the Bangladesh Film Festival and Bangladesh Theatre Festival. Manabendra Mukhopadhyay from the Bengali department, who's also the principal coordinator for the Bangladesh Bhavan, said all these plans will now depend on the foreign policies of the governments of the two countries. The sources also said that there was a plan to organise a tree plantation drive at the Bangladesh Bhavan on the occasion of 'Baishe Srabon' (the death anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore) on August 14, which will now be held at a different venue. Meanwhile, India on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the situation in Bangladesh, a day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as the Prime Minister and reached Delhi following massive violence in Dhaka and several other parts of the neighbouring country. Making a suo-moto statement in the Rajya Sabha, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar said, "Properties of individuals associated with the regime were torched across the country. What was particularly worrying was that minorities, their businesses, and temples also came under attack at multiple locations. The full extent of this is still not clear." Asserting that the Indian government remains in "regular touch" with the authorities in Dhaka, Jaishankar said that New Delhi expects the host government to provide required security protection to Indian establishments in Bangladesh besides ensuring the protection and well-being of the minorities. Since last October, the Iran-backed Houthi militants have been attacking commercial shipping moving through the Bab-al-Mandab strait between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Under the guise of support for Hamas and opposition to Israel, they have used surface-to-surface missiles, artillery rockets, loitering munitions and drones to attack over seventy ships. They have killed four sailors and taken hostages while demanding an end to the Hamas-Israeli war. According to the Israeli Ministry of Defense, so far, the Houthis have conducted over two hundred air attacks against Israel. The best way to minimize a dangerous entity is to deny it the means to strike. In the Houthis case, that means inhibiting the groups ability to procure weapons, including military-grade and dual-use equipment. As the majority of weapons the Houthis use are of Russian, Chinese or Iranian origin, removing the means of transporting weapons is one way to keep them out of Houthi hands. Thus, the United States Department of the Treasury and the State Department have sanctioned two individuals and four entities complicit in weapons procurement. The first is Al-Shahari United Corporation Ltd. This Yemen-based logistics company has facilitated numerous shipments of Chinese missile and unmanned aerial vehicles to Yemen. Al-Shaharis China-based branch, Guangzhou Alshahari United Corporation Limited, helped facilitate these shipments. Guangzhou Alshahari is owned by Hong Kong-based Hongkong Alshahari United Corporation Limited. All three companies have been designated pursuant to Executive Order 13224, as amended. As well, Ahmed Khaled Yahya [Yaya] Al-Shahari is designated pursuant to Executive Order 13224, for being a leader or official of Hong Kong Alshahari. Maher Yahya Muhammad Mutahar al-Kinai, a Yemeni businessman, is the General Manager of Yemen Telecommunication Asset Company for Information Technology, a company that has facilitated Houthi procurement efforts. Both Al-Kinai and Yemen Telecommunication Asset Company for Information Technology are being designated pursuant to Executive Order 13224, as amended, for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided support for the Houthis. As a result of the designations, all property and assets of the designated individuals and entities within U.S. reach are frozen. The Houthis have sought to exploit key jurisdictions like the PRC and Hong Kong in order to source and transport the components necessary for their deadly weapons systems, said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson. [The United States] will continue to target the facilitators that enable the Houthis destabilizing activities. Agartala, Aug 6 : The Chakma Development Foundation of India (CDFI) submitted a memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday, demanding the verification of 1,675 intruders, including 174 Rohingyas, who have been detained by the BSF in Tripura between 2021 and April 2024. Demanding a strict vigil along the border along with other appropriate measures, the CDFI urged the Home Minister to provide shelter to those people belonging to religious minorities seeking shelter in India to escape persecution during the ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh. CDFI founder Suhas Chakma claimed that the BSF detained 208 intruders, including three Rohingyas, in 2021; 369 intruders, including 59 Rohingyas, in 2022; and 1,018 intruders, including 112 Rohingyas, between January 2023 and April 15, 2024. "The CDFI welcomed the memorandum recently submitted by Tipra Motha Party MLA Ranjit Debbarma to the Home Minister on the issue. Records show that most of the Rohingya refugees were arrested from Sepahijala, Unakoti, West Tripura, and North Tripura districts. If investigation is only done in Chamunu, Gandachara, and Silachari areas, the real picture will not come out as the infiltrators move throughout the state and the country," Chakma said in a statement. He said that whenever such political turmoil takes place in Bangladesh, it becomes an excuse to target religious minorities. In the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) of Bangladesh, about 28 indigenous/tribal people's villages have been captured by Muslim settlers in the last two-and-a-half decades, Chakma claimed. "Regarding the Rohingya influx, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) had registered four cases of transnational human trafficking of Rohingya refugees in Guwahati, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Jaipur. In connection with the Guwahati case, the NIA arrested at least 21 persons from Tripura. The NIA has already filed chargesheets against many accused persons," he added The CDFI leader said all these make for a case to investigate the entire state of Tripura. Kolkata, Aug 6 : Amid continuing attacks on police personnel in different parts of Bangladesh, the Inspector General of Bangladesh Police released a video message on Tuesday requesting the protesters, including the student leadership, to urge people to refrain from attacking the security forces. "I request the honourable political leadership and the honourable student leadership to issue appeals to the people so that the members of the police force are not subjected to attacks," said Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, IG, Bangladesh Police, in the video message. He also complemented the Bangladesh Army for its "tireless attempts" to ensure the safety and security of the police personnel and their establishments, "All attempts will be made to resolve the problems highlighted by the members of the Bangladesh Police. I request all the members of Bangladesh Police to perform their duties with strong determination and patience after ensuring their security. I hope the situation will normalise soon with cooperation from all," he said. The senior officer also assured that necessary treatment facilities will be provided to the policemen injured in the clashes with the protesters. Vijayawada, Aug 6 : YSR Congress Party President and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Tuesday alleged that the Chandrababu Naidu-led NDA government in the state is prioritising attacks and violence against opposition party cadres over its fulfilling election promises. He called on YSRCP leader Ginjupalli Srinivasa Rao and other workers injured in an alleged attack by Telugu Desam Party (TDP) workers. After he arrived from Bengaluru, Jagan Mohan Reddy visited a private hospital in Vijayawada and called on the injured party members. Srinivasa Rao, a YSRCP leader from Nawabpet in the Jaggayyapeta constituency, and other party workers were critically injured in a brutal attack by TDP goons, said the YSRCP. Talking to media persons outside the hospital, Jagan Mohan Reddy condemned the heinous attack on YSRCP leaders in Nawabpet, labelling TDP members as ruthless and inhumane. He asserted that such actions would not intimidate the public but instead incite further anger and opposition. He called for the Governor's intervention, urging him to focus on the deteriorating state of affairs. He said the injustices were brought to the attention of national political parties and mentioned the plans to bring it to the notice of the High Court and Supreme Court. Given the numerous injustices occurring in the state, Jagan Mohan Reddy questioned why the President's Rule should not be imposed in the state. He stressed that the current administration was rapidly losing control and legitimacy. He said that he would visit the family of the YSRCP worker who was brutally killed by TDP goons at Sitaramapuram in Mahanandi mandal of Nandyal district on Friday. He questioned Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's objectives, highlighting the growing discontent against him in a short period. He criticised Naidu for neglecting governance and failing to focus on the promises made in the manifesto. He claimed that Naidu had deceived farmers, mothers, and students by not fulfilling promises like Rythu Bharosa, Amma Vodi, fee reimbursement, Vasathi Deevena, zero-interest loans, and Matsyakara Bharosa. In contrast, the YSRCP has consistently supported these groups, he said, criticising the Chandrababu Naidu administration for prioritising attacks and violence over the welfare of schools, education, and hospitals, and accusing him of attempting to create an atmosphere of fear to suppress dissent. Shillong, Aug 6 : Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Tuesday condemned the vandalisation of a bust of U Tirot Sing Syiem, a freedom fighter from the state, in Dhaka amid ongoing unrest in the neighbouring country. He also urged the Bangladesh administration to take proper steps to avoid any such incident in the coming days. Taking to X, Sangma said, "I strongly condemn the vandalisation of the bust of U Tirot Sing Syiem, the braveheart of Khasi Hills and a freedom fighter from Meghalaya, at the Indian Cultural Centre in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Urge local authorities to take corrective measures to avoid further escalation." Meanwhile, the Meghalaya Frontier of Border Security Force (BSF) has stepped up security measures along a 444 km stretch of the international border with Bangladesh in reaction to the continuing disturbance in the neighbouring country. The aim is to guarantee efficient control and dominance of the borders. Currently, extensive efforts are being made to stop cross-border smuggling and unlawful entrance. Harbax Singh Dhillon, the Inspector General (IG) of BSF Meghalaya, stressed that field commanders and soldiers are vigilant and well-informed about the current events. "We are constantly monitoring the situation along the international border. This is to deal with all unanticipated events. Officers have been told to remain mission-ready," he added. To strengthen security, restrictions have been put in place on the movement of civilians along the Bangladesh-India border, a senior official said. The whole length of Meghalaya's international border is under a night curfew now, according to the state government. Guwahati, Aug 6 : In view of unrest and unabated violence in Bangladesh, the BSF has directed its personnel along the borders to be prepared to address any adverse situation promptly, officials said on Tuesday. A BSF spokesman said that out of the 4,096-km-long Indian border with Bangladesh, 509 km is under the jurisdiction of the BSF's Guwahati Frontier command, stretching from West Bengal's Cooch Behar district to Assam's South Salamara-Mankachar district and 11 battalions and a water wing has been deployed to guard this stretch. Surveillance at all Land Custom Stations (LCS) has been intensified, manpower at border outposts (BOPs) has been increased, and surveillance equipment is being utilised to its full capacity to ensure effective monitoring, the spokesman said. "Subunits have been instructed to maintain high vigilance and be prepared to address any adverse situation promptly. Intelligence operations have been enhanced to provide real-time information, ensuring any emerging threats are swiftly identified and neutralised," he said. The spokesman said that given the sensitivity of the border and potential challenges, BSF troopers are strategically deployed to safeguard the nationas borders. The BSF continues to play a crucial role in maintaining national security and integrity through their persistent efforts, he added. In light of the developments in Bangladesh, the Guwahati Frontier command has reviewed the security situation along the border, anticipating various contingencies. A state of high alert has been declared to address any potential security threat, the spokesman said, adding that the commanders at all levels have been directed to maintain utmost vigilance and readiness to handle any unforeseen circumstances. They are to keep a strict watch on the border, with augmented manpower and the formation of quick reaction teams (QRTs), he stated. Ayodhya, Aug 6 : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday emphasised that officials should work in coordination with public representatives and residents, addressing issues through dialogue and cooperation. The Chief Minister made the remarks here during a meeting to review development works and law and order in Ayodhya. He instructed officials to ensure a 24-hour power supply in both urban and rural areas of the district. Chief Minister Adityanath asked officials to promptly address any complaints regarding defunct transformers. The Chief Minister also addressed the concerns of public representatives during the meeting. Rudauli MLA Ram Chandra Yadav raised issues regarding the construction of an Ayurvedic Medical College and the operation of ITI Mawai. In response, Chief Minister Adityanath instructed concerned officials, including the Commissioner and District Magistrate, to take the necessary action. For the convenience of devotees visiting the Ram temple, the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure that arrangements for e-rikshaws, e-buses, and other transportation options be enhanced. Chief Minister Adityanath also made suggestions for better traffic management. Additionally, he instructed that the traditional methods be used for renovating water reservoirs and that efforts be made to keep the water pure through proper purification methods. He instructed officials to prepare a proposal for designating land for a hospital and trauma centre in Ayodhya, aiming to provide emergency medical services within the city. He also directed that employment-oriented programmes be organised across various industries to boost job creation. Furthermore, the Chief Minister emphasised the need for regular inspections of work quality by departments, including tourism. He stressed that all implementing agencies must complete their projects within the set deadlines. Chief Minister Adityanath while reviewing the Revenue Department's works said that no private workers should be employed in government offices such as Revenue or police stations. He warned of strict punitive action against any violations. The Chief Minister emphasised the need for daily reviews of revenue disputes at the district level and instructed that complaints received at police stations be regularly reviewed by higher officials. He also directed the District Magistrate to ensure that revenue disputes are settled by consistently coordinating with Additional District Magistrates and Sub-District Magistrates. Chief Minister Adityanath on the occasion also unveiled the logo of the 'Green Ayodhya' fund and the website for the Ayodhya Ji Teerth Kshetra Vikas Parishad. Imphal, Aug 6 : Anticipating an influx of people from violence-hit Bangladesh, the Manipur government on Tuesday evening directed the Deputy Commissioners of two districts -- Pherzawl and Jiribam -- to clamp night curfew and further strengthen security and vigilance. In his directive, the Home Department's Joint Secretary said that due to the prevailing law and order situation in Bangladesh, there is a likelihood of an influx of people from the neighbouring country into Manipur. "Strict precautionary measures need to be taken to prevent the influx of illegal migrants," the order said, as it asked the Deputy Commissioners of the two concerned districts to impose night curfew and also take other precautionary measures such as maintenance of strict vigil by district police and other security forces along the borders at all times. The Deputy Commissioners of Pherzawl and Jiribam districts accordingly imposed the night curfew under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Manipur shares 398 km international borders with Myanmar, but none with Bangladesh. But the state shares inter-state borders with southern Assam, which shares borders with Bangladesh. Meghalaya, which shares 445 km borders with Bangladesh, also imposed a night curfew on Monday. Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said the night curfew would cover areas spanning 200 metres from the zero line to prevent the movement of people. He also said that the BSF would maintain a strict vigil along the India-Bangladesh border in the state. Amaravati, Aug 6 : Tech giant Google will partner with Andhra Pradesh in providing Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, sustainability, skill development and startup ecosystems, it was announced on Tuesday. A Memorandum of Understanding is slated for signing between the state government and Google under the initiative "AI for Andhra Pradesh, Powered by Google". "This comprehensive partnership will encompass AI applications in agriculture, healthcare, and sustainability, as well as skill development, startup ecosystems, AI workforce cultivation, MSME support through digital credit and AI-driven governance," the state government said after Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naiduas videoconference with Google and YouTube leadership. Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and key representatives from Google, including Neal Mohan, Global CEO of YouTube, Sanjay Gupta, President, Asia Pacific Region at Google, Leslie Miller, Global VP, YouTube, and and Sreenivasa Reddy, Managing Director, Government Affairs, India joined the videoconference. The meeting explored strategic collaborations to accelerate the state's technological advancement, with a focus on identifying opportunities where the state and tech leaders could collaborate. Discussions included digital infrastructure enhancement, skill development, and leveraging technology for efficient governance. Chief Minister Naidu underscored the stateas dedication to fostering a thriving environment for technological innovation. "Andhra Pradesh is on a trajectory to become India's digital epicentre, and we are enthused about the prospects of partnering with global pioneers like Google and YouTube," Naidu affirmed. Google representatives commended the state's strides in digital infrastructure and reiterated their commitment to nurturing innovation and skill development within India. Naidu earlier said he discussed setting up a YouTube Academy in Amaravati with the company leadership. Beyond a proposed YouTube Academy in Amaravati, both parties agreed to delve deeper into the identified opportunities, according to an official statement. The Chief Minister revealed on aXa that he was delighted to connect with YouTube global CEO Neal Mohan and Google APAC Head Sanjay Gupta online. "We discussed setting up a YouTube Academy in Andhra Pradesh, in collaboration with local partners, to foster AI, content development, skill development and certification programmes," he posted. "Furthermore, we explored avenues for providing technical support for the Media City initiative in our capital, Amaravati". Media City is one of the nine theme cities planned by Naidu as part of Amaravati state capital. Hyderabad, Aug 6 : A police case has been filed against Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Working President K.T. Rama Rao and two other leaders of the party for unauthorised drone flying. A First Information Report (FIR) was registered against Rama Rao and former MLAs Balka Suman and Gandra Venkataramna Reddy in connection with the incident during their visit to the Medigadda Barrage, a part of the Kaleshwaram project, on July 26. The FIR was registered at Mahadevpur police station of Jayashankar Bhupalapally district on July 29 but the same came to light on Tuesday (August 6). According to the police, the BRS leaders operated a drone without permission at the Medigadda (Laxmi) Barrage in Ambatpally village between 12.30 p.m. and 2 p.m. Vali Shaik, an Assistant Executive Engineer at Medigadda, lodged a complaint with the police on July 29. The complainant told police that the BRS leaders visited the barrage and operated a drone camera without obtaining the necessary permissions. The officer told police that as Medigadda Barrage is part of a crucial project, unauthorised drone activity could pose a security threat. The Assistant Executive Engineer lodged the complaint with the police after footage of the drone flying surfaced on social media. Rama Rao and two former MLAs were booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for disobedience to an order duly promulgated by a public servant. Flying drones is prohibited at key installations and the action of the BRS leaders violated the order. Police registered the FIR under Section 223 (b) of the BNS, read with Section 3(5) (joint criminal liability when two or more individuals act with a common intention). After a visit to Medigadda barrage, Rama Rao had said he suspected Congress conspiracy behind the sinking of piers in October 2023. He said the barrage, which could withstand 28 lakh cusecs of flood water for several years, sank just before Assembly elections, and alleged that Congress tried to show Kaleshwaram as a failure but failed in its attempt. --IANS ms/vd Tehran, Aug 7 : Palestinian group Hamas on Tuesday announced that its Gaza leader Yahya Sinwar will be its new political leader, replacing the assassinated Ismail Haniyeh, reports said. The announcement came a week after its politburo chief Haniyeh was assassinated in his Tehran accommodation, hours after he attended the inauguration of President Masoud Pezeshkian. Iran has blamed the assassination on Israel and vowed a harsh response. Yahya Ibrahim Hassan Sinwar, 61, has been the group's leader in Gaza since early 2017, succeeding Haniyeh in the role. He is accused of orchestrating the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, triggering the Israeli attack on the beleaguered strip, which had devastated the area and left nearly 40,000 people dead. Arrested and tried by Israel for abducting and killing two Israeli soldiers and four alleged Palestinian collaborators in 1989, Sinwar was sentenced to four life sentences and served 22 years until his release along with over 1,000 more in a 2011 prisoner exchange for abducted Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. Ameries Book Club The book: Hum by Helen Phillips Our reviewer says: "In this bracing speculative parable from Phillips, set in a near future devastated by climate change, a woman loses her job to the robots she helped build.... Readers wont be able to look away." Read more. Alta Journals California Book Club The book: Under the Feet of Jesus by Helena Maria Viramontes Our reviewer says: "This first novel adds another important chapter to the existing body of literature about the Mexican-American experience." Read more. Audacious Book Club The book: The Sons of El Rey by Alex Espinoza Our reviewer says: "Espinoza returns to fiction with the arresting story of an elderly wrestlers last days.... This is a knockout." Read more. Barnes & Noble Book Club and Read with Jenna The book: The Wedding People by Alison Espach Our reviewer says: "Espach offers a sparkling and slightly macabre novel of a 30-something woman finding a new lease on life.... Readers are in for a treat." Read more. Black Men Read The book: Black Lives, American Love: Essays on Race and Resilience by D.B. Maroon Belletrist The book: TBA CBS New York Book Club The book: Like Mother, Like Daughter by Kimberly McCreight Our reviewer says: "Bestseller McCreight explores thorny parent-child bonds in her captivating latest.... This should please McCreights existing fans and win her new ones." Read more. Good Housekeeping Book Club The book: The Same Bright Stars by Ethan Joella Our reviewer says: "The colorful latest from Joella finds 52-year-old Jack Schmidt at a crossroads in his diligent management of his familys restaurant in Rehobeth Beach, Del., which he took over from his father decades earlier." Read more. Good Morning America Book Club The book: The Seventh Veil of Salome by Silvia Moreno-Garcia Our reviewer says: "Moreno-Garcia returns to the world of moviemaking for this layered if schematic story of a Mexico City receptionist whose exotic looks land her the lead role in the eponymous 1950s Hollywood epic." Read more. Jewish Book Council Book Club (fiction) The book: What You Do to Me by Rochelle B. Weinstein Jewish Book Council Book Club (nonfiction) The book: The Incorruptibles: A True Story of Kingpins, Crime Busters, and the Birth of the American Underworld by Dan Slater Maudes Book Club The book: The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin Our reviewer says: "Humans struggle to survive on a ruined world in this elegiac, complex, and intriguing story, the first in the Broken Earth series from acclaimed author Jemisin." Read more. Mocha Girls Read Book Club The book: Black Love Matters: Real Talk on Romance, Being Seen, and Happily Ever Afters, edited by Jessica P. Pryde Our reviewer says: "Book Riot columnist Pryde collects 14 essays on the myriad forms that Black romance takes in this moving and original anthology.... The result is as unique as it is heartfelt." Read more. Natalies Book Club The book: Sojourners by Mfoniso Udofia Noname Book Club The book: Tip of the Spear by Orisanmi Burton and Big Black: Stand at Attica by Frank "Big Black" Smith Our reviewer says of Big Black: "This penetrating portrait of a broken correctional system and a flawed man focuses on his legacy of courage, which towers over the forces stacked against him." Read more. PBS Books Readers Club The book: The Hunter by Tana French Our reviewer says: "Edgar winner Frenchs slow-burn sequel to 2015s The Searcher underlines her knack for setting and character development.... This may be a step down from its predecessor, but its still a cut above similar fare." Read more. Reeses Book Club The book: Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell Our reviewer says: "Bestselling YA author Rowell serves up a powerful and poignant tale of first love for adult romance readers.... Rich, real, and emotionally raw, this satisfying contemporary is sure to impress." Read more. Sarah Selects The book: Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder by Kerryn Mayne Our reviewer says: "Mayne debuts with the underwhelming story of an awkward middle school teacher in Australia whose repressed childhood memories come roaring to the surface." Read more. Subtle Asian Book Club The book: And the Mountains Echoed by Khaled Hosseini Our reviewer says: "Hosseinis third novel follows a close-knit but oft-separated Afghan family through love, wars, and losses more painful than death.... [His] eye for detail and emotional geography makes this a haunting read." Read more. Target Book Club The book: The Golden Gate by Amy Chua Our reviewer says: "The thrilling fiction debut from Yale law professor Chua anchors a mind-bending murder mystery in the social turbulence of 1944 Berkeley, Calif.... [A] richly satisfying historical mystery." Read more. TeaTime Book Club The book: The Anthropologists by Aysegul Savas Our reviewer says: "In the exceptional latest from Savas (White on White), an idealistic young couple flounders in their half-hearted effort to put down roots in an unnamed city far from their respective homelands.... Its a masterpiece." Read more. Round up a passel of publishers of Christian historical fiction these days and youll notice something interesting: A large number of westernsnovels set in the Wild West of the past complete with cattle ranchers, cowboys, criminals, strong women, and romance. While the Western has waned a bit in popularity in the fiction market at large, such stories remain a popular subgenre of Christian fiction. And according to authors and publishers, the allure of the Western remains strong, even if they aren't exactly Christian fiction. The romance of the Old West is sewn into American lore and history, and I think readers connect with a lot of elements of these stories, said Jessica Sharpe, senior acquisitions editor at Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. The good-vs-evil storylines, the American ideals of hard work and independence, the purity of wide-open spaces. Even a fascination with the everyday rhythms of pioneer life. Bethany House is publishing home to some of the most popular writers in the genre including Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Tracie Peterson, and Misty M. Beller, as well as Janette Oke, whose When Calls the Heart series has inspired a popular television series. For Connealy, its all about the cowboys. I love that they are men of few words and swift action. They live in harmony with the land but are rough enough to endure when weather and mountains, rattlesnakes and stampedes make life hard, she said. My heroes are strong, and I make my heroines just as strong to be a match for them. Toward the Dawn, the second in her A Western Light series, released in June and book three, Into the Sunset, will release in October. The first in her new Golden State Treasures series, Whispers of Fortune, is set for February 2025 release. Karen Witemeyer, who also publishes with Bethany House, has written 27 novels and novellas, all set in 1800s Texas. Her third book in the Texas Ever After series, Cloaked in Beauty, releases in December. She agrees its the cowboys and the strong women drawing eager readers in. Who can resist a rugged hero in possession of a tender, humble heart? Witemeyer said. Yet, we also see ourselves in a feisty heroine, one who is strong and capable in her own right and ready to fight beside her man to overcome whatever obstacles fate might place in their path, she added. When we read about ordinary people overcoming extraordinary hardship, it makes the obstacles in our own lives feel less intimidating. Tyndale Fiction doesnt have a purposeful focus on westerns, according to acquiring editor Stephanie Broene, but is always eager for good settings and good stories, and publishes New York Times bestselling author Francine Rivers, whose latest book, The Ladys Mine (2023) is set in an 1875 mining town in the Sierra Nevada. The Ladys Mine has done very well. It launched right when the Redeeming Love movie came out, a western novel [by Rivers] that people have loved for years, said Broene. The American West almost becomes a character in itself for authors such as Amanda Cabot, who set her Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing and Cimarron Creek series, published by Revell, in the Texas Hill Country. When we read about ordinary people overcoming extraordinary hardship, it makes the obstacles in our own lives feel less intimidating. I believe that the setting of a book is an essential element of the story, said Cabot. People fall in love with my towns as much as they do with the characters. Readers have told me they pulled out a map of Texas, looking for my towns because they wanted to visit. When a trilogy ends, its typical for readers to ask for more books set in that town. These emails make me smile because they tell me Ive accomplished my goal of making my settings feel real. Tracie Peterson agrees. She has written over 140 novels and says that over a hundred of them are set in the American West between the 1830s and 1920s. I see the raw, unvarnished frontier as an amazing platform for characters and their creation, said Peterson, who publishes with Bethany House. I love to have my settings be like secondary characters, she adds. Setting in fiction so often has a bigger influence over the storylines than anything else. It can influence every aspect of a characters life-and-death choices, especially in the American West. Its provides an amazing palette for writers. While historical fiction westerns remain perennial favorites, Tyndale Fiction is an example of publishers moving into modern westerns via Ryan Stecks Matthew Redd Thriller novels. Fields of Fire came out in May 2023, Lethal Range in August 2023, and Out for Blood in June. Set in Montanas Big Sky country, Redd must fight any number of international villains and bad operators close to home. Its funny to me that were even talking about modern westerns now. Not long ago it was an undesirable genre, with Fields of Fire sitting on my desk. Then [the miniseries] Yellowstone happened, said Steck, whose books have been compared to C. J. Boxs Joe Pickett novels set in Wyoming. While his books arent explicitly Christian, he adds undertones of faith to each book and depicts the process of maturing in the Christian faith. Redd has a modern-day cowboy-esque nature. He has his own moral code, believes in justice and the pursuit of it, and has the physical traits and experiences of a cowboy, said Steck. I plan to write Matthew Redd books for a long time. Meanwhile, publishers such as Tyndale, Revell, and Bethany House have no plans to slow down publishing Westerns. And it's clear that authors will continue to write them, and readers will buy them. The American West offers so many different opportunities for stories," said Peterson. "The possibilities are endless. The 2024 Realm Makers Writers Conference, held July 18-20 in St. Louis, Missouri, was filled with writers of speculative fictionand all manner of elves, hobbits, storm troopers, fairies and sword-wielders. The 12th annual gathering attracted some 475 attendees (many of whom dressed up as a favorite character) as well as 47 exhibitors, including small publishers and self-published authors, leather workers and cookie makers, and Lorehaven, the online publication dedicated to reviewing science fiction, fantasy and other speculatives, and hosts of the podcast Fantastical Truth. The conference was sponsored by Oasis Family Media, owners of Enclave Publishing, which publishes exclusively in the faith-based speculative fiction arena, with other sponsors including The Author Conservatory, Ingram Spark, and Towers of Light Christian Resources. This year's conference was the best attended yet, organizers report, marking steady and impressive growth from the 60 authors who attended the inaugural show in 2013. Owned and operated by Scott and Becky Minor (Becky acting as conference CEO and director and Scott as COO and operations manager), the show has made good on Becky Minors vision of creating "a faith-friendly event where writers could celebrate all things science fiction and fantasy," and in its second decade has indeed become a place for faith-based speculative fiction readers and authors have a place to call home. Christians have always enjoyed fantasy and science fiction, but the authors have had to bifurcate their creativity from their faith, explained Becky Minor. They go to church and cant talk about what they create. The themes of good vs. evil and more in Christian sci-fi and fantasy point people toward truth and sacrifice. But that's changed over the years. The Minors point to the growth of small publishers and self-publishing options as important entrees into the speculative genres, which large, faith-based publishers have been historically hesitant to join. Now, faith-based authors can self-publish or go with a small house, "and that has increased the number of people who feel they can get into the marketplace, said Becky Minor. And where the spec fic crowd may still be considered "a couple shades too weird for the established Christian writers conferences," according to the Realm Maker website, the Minors see speculative fiction as a way to share faith-infused themes such as sacrifice, love, and the defeat of evil without the overt Christian messaging of other genres. The themes of good vs. evil and more in Christian sci-fi and fantasy point people toward truth and sacrifice," explained Scott Minor. "And the closer you get to truth, the closer you get to Jesus. Next years Realm Makers conference will combine with the Christian Game Developers Conference, to be held July 18-20, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. 2024 Realm Maker Award Winners A highlight of the conference, the 2024 Realm Award winners were announced. Winners include: Short Story: Inversion by Cathy McCrumb (Havok Publishing) Novella: Shattered Echoes by Hope Jian (The Author Conservatory) Audiobook: Rogue Pursuit by D.L. Dean, narrated by Sierra Kline (Tantor Media) Cover Design: Steal Fire from the Gods by Clint Hall, design by Kirk DouPonce Middle Grade: On Hidden Wings by Adare Alyse (Truly Fantastic Media) Young Adult: Suspended in the Stars by E.A. Hendryx (Pine Mountain Publishing) Horror/Paranormal/Supernatural: Almost Paradise by Bryan Mitchell (Descendant Publishing) Fantasy: Song of the Selkies by Sarah Pennington (Independently published) Science Fiction: When Death Is Coming by Jen Woodrum (Ginger Rock Publishing) Debut Author: Suspended in the Stars by E.A. Hendryx (Pine Mountain Publishing) Readers Choice: A Bond of Briars by Erin Phillips (Ethereal Echo Press) Book of the Year: Song of the Selkies by Sarah Pennington (Independently published) Zondervan Author Wants to Make Bible Study Exciting Trinity McFadden with The Bindery Agency has negotiated a world rights deal with Zondervan acquiring editor Paul Pastor for the tentatively titled No More Boring Bible Study: How to Read and (Finally) Understand Scripture by content creator, speaker, and founder of How to Faith a Life, Faith Womack. The publisher said the book will offer action steps that empower readers with tool and confidenceto understand the Bible. Publication is set for some time in 2026. Book on Influential Women to Brazos Brazos Press editorial director Katelyn Beaty has acquired world rights to Church Mothers by Joy Marie Clarkson. Clarkson is a research associate in theology and literature at King's College London and the Books & Culture Editor at Plough, plus the host of host of the Speaking with Joy podcast. Alexander Field at The Bindery Agency negotiated the deal. The book will explore the history and context around influential Christian women by imagining moments in their lives and illuminating each ones place in Christian history. The book is set for a spring 2026 release. Brazos Explores Artistic Vocation Executive editor Bob Hosack at Brazos Press has taken world rights to To Set the World Aflame by W. David O. Taylor, who is unagented. The publisher said Taylor, an Anglican priest who has lectured worldwide on the arts, offers readers a vision for artistic vocation that draws on theological, historical, pastoral and missional resources, and invests new meaning into the aesthetic aspects of our lives. Taylor is associate professor of theology and culture at Fuller Theological Seminary and the author or editor of nine previous books. The book is set for a summer 2026 publication. Paraclete Lands Dragon Slayer Paraclete Press director Lillian Miao has acquired world rights to Dragon Slayers: The Essential Training Guide for Young Dragon Fighters by Joyce Denham (Sir Wyvern Pugilist), illustrated by Kristina Kister. For ages 6-12, the publisher said Dragon Slayers is a guide for preparing children for the spiritual dragons they face, the weapons they need for this battle, and the lessons they can learn from the saints, the "Dragon Slayers of Old." The author represented herself, and the illustrator was represented by Robbin Brosterman at the Bright Agency. Publication is slated for May 2025. Book on Youth Ministry Crisis to IVP Nilwona Nowlin, associate editor at IVP, has taken world rights to David A. Washingtons tentatively titled Dont Despise Our Youth. The unagented author speaks to a youth ministry crisis, especially in urban settings, and uses scripture, personal stories and testimonies to inspire readers to serve and/or support youth and youth workers. Washington is the founding pastor of Kingdom Covenant Church Chicago. The book will be published in summer 2025. Lake Drive Signs Trans Memoir David Morris, publisher of Lake Drive Books, has acquired world rights to unagented author Nia Chiaramontes I Hardly Knew Me: Rediscovering Compassion and Resilience in the Moments of Gender Transition. The memoir by the cofounder of Love in the Face, which supports transgender and LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families, explores emotional themes of self-discovery, resilience and the capacity to love using humor and personal reflection to help readers understand gender transition and themselves. The tentative release date is July 2025. Pedro Sanchez acusa a Feijoo, sobre los presos etarras, de no saber lo que vota o saberlo y echar la In FY24, loans given out by such firms had topped a whopping Rs 146,517 crore, up by 49 per cent year-on-year and spread over 10.19 million accounts (up 35 per cent). The Reserve Bank of India is monitoring loans with a ticket size of up to Rs 50,000 on the books of banks and fintech lenders. A majority of consumers in this segment services three 'live' loans, and it is suspected this could be an indication of evergreening with the possibility of diversion into capital markets. The scrutiny should be seen in the context of the RBI in November asking regulated entities (REs) to review their exposure limits for consumer credit and put in place board-approved limits for various sub-segments, specifically unsecured consumer credit exposures, by February 29, 2024. While no sizing study has been done on this segment of loans, data from the Fintech Association for Consumer Empowerment shows runaway growth in such offerings given by new-age fintech lenders. In FY24, loans given out by such firms had topped a whopping Rs 146,517 crore, up by 49 per cent year-on-year and spread over 10.19 million accounts (up 35 per cent). Loans are now priced at 30 per cent levels per annum and tenures range between three, six and 24 months. The overall portfolio-at-risk for 90-days past-due has improved since FY22; and in FY24 fell to 3.5 per cent from 3.6 per cent in September 2023. In the case of fintech lenders, sources indicated that shorter tenures on consumer credit - ranging between three or four months to a year - are being looked into. These are mostly given to below prime and new-to-credit borrowers with credit bureau scores ranging between 500 and 700. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said supervisory teams had noticed that 'some entities have fixed very high ceilings, even where they already have a high exposure. While it is not our intention to be prescriptive on such matters, banks and NBFCs (non-banking financial companies) are expected to show prudence and avoid exuberance'. There are now whispers that the central bank may ask REs to reduce the pace of growth of their unsecured book in case it feels some entities are not being prudent. While the risk weights on banks' unsecured personal loans and consumer durable loans have been increased to 125 per cent from 100 per cent, and that on credit cards have been increased to 150 per cent from 125 per cent, banks and NBFCs can absorb the higher risk weights given their comfortable capital buffers. It is surmised that the RBI may now consider risk weights based on the ticket size to address this last aspect. Another concern is that a few REs, especially fintechs, plan to take up the delay and dated nature of credit bureau data with the central bank: It is well over 45 days. It was pointed out that this was because data reported to the bureaus has to be verified and the attendant bureaucracy over it leads to delays. The TransUnion CIBIL report of October 2023 has it that since January 2022 personal loans of less than Rs 50,000 made for a very small share of total retail balances (0.3 per cent of the total retail loan book at an industry level), but accounted for approximately 25 per cent of total origination volumes. As a result, the proportion of credit-active consumers availing of small-ticket personal loans has increased to 8 per cent in June 2023, from 3 per cent in June 2019. The Financial Stability Report of June 2024 had called attention to concerns in consumer credit. First, delinquency levels among borrowers with NBFC-fintech lenders have the highest share in sanctioned and outstanding amounts, and the second highest delinquency levels. Second, vintage delinquency, which is a measure of slippage, remains relatively high in personal loans at 8.2 per cent. Vintage delinquency is defined as the percentage of accounts that have anytime become delinquent within twelve months of origination. Third, little more than a half of the borrowers in this segment have three live loans at the time of origination and more than one-third of the borrowers have availed of more than three loans in the last six months. Fourth, 7.3 per cent of customers availing of a personal loan below Rs 50,000 had at least one overdue personal loan. Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com 'In the interim, India will be confronted with anti-India feeling because Sheikh Hasina had India's support.' 'We will have to deal with it, but it will not be a permanent phenomenon.' 'There is substantial goodwill towards India which will stand us in good stead.' IMAGE: People celebrate Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation in Dhaka, August 5, 2024. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters "Disorder in the neighbourhood is not the best prospect that one wants. The concern would be that it should not be taken advantage of by those inimical to India," says Amitabh Mathur, retired Special Secretary at the Cabinet Secretariat and a Bangladesh watcher for decades. In an interview to Rediff.com's Archana Masih, Mr Mathur discusses the dramatic, rapid developments in Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina's ouster and what it means for India. As a Bangladesh watcher, what were your thoughts as you saw the rapid developments and Sheikh Hasina's ouster? What does it mean? This was on the cards, though I am surprised with the rapidity of the developments. Sheikh Hasina was on a slippery slope after the recent elections [January 2024. She won a consecutive fourth term]. Public resentment against her was extremely high because yet another time the people had actually been deprived of their electoral right. She had managed to get away with it on previous occasions -- in fact, even in the 2018 election in Bangladesh, she was vulnerable because of the way she got elected amid allegations of wide-scale rigging. She could weather the storm at that time because the economy was doing better, but this was the last straw. It needed a spark to light the fire and the student movement did that. For a leader known as the iron lady who ruled for 15 years, what according to you was her miscalculation? Her fundamental miscalculation was that she thought the Bangladesh army and regional powers are with her. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party was not strong enough to launch an agitation against her and she thought she would be able to handle any opposition to her re-election. (BNP leader Khaleda Zia has been in prison since 2018 and is set to be released.) The miscalculation was not judging the sentiment on the street where people were seething with anger. There were several reasons for public anger -- the choking of democracy, no right to express contrary views, locking up opponents -- half the BNP leadership was in jail, the other half in exile... Therefore, people were waiting for a chance to get back. That's the impression I had from the robust Indian community in Dhaka which is mostly in the garment business. They said that anti-Hasina and at times, anti-India sentiment was extremely high. If you recall, after the elections there was an 'India Out' movement which did not succeed because Bangladesh is very dependent on us -- from tooth brushes to cars. It did not succeed, but showed the desperation of the people. The other miscalculation was her inability to accommodate her own allies like Jatia Party leader Anwar Hossain Manju who was defeated by his personal assistant. If you look at the voting pattern in seats where an Awami League candidate was challenged by a dissident Awami League candidate, there was some voting, but where an Awami League candidate stood against parties that were allowed to contest, the voting was in single digits. Farcical elections and authoritarian rule do not work in countries that have tasted democracy. Therefore, this was certainly in the making. IMAGE: People climb the statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at the Bijoy Sarani area in Dhaka. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters How will this raging turmoil on our eastern border impact India? In the interim, India will be confronted with anti-India feeling because she had India's support. We will have to deal with it, but it will not be a permanent phenomenon. There is substantial goodwill towards India which will stand us in good stead. I don't know what kind of government will be formed and whether there will be free and fair elections, but there is fair amount of understanding among Bangladeshi leaders that they need good relations with India. So in the interim there will be some setback, but not permanently. IMAGE: People enter the Bangladesh parliament. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters What is Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League's future? She is 76 and there is not much of a political future for her; the concern is the future of the Awami League. The last time this happened in Bangladesh was in 1975 when Sheikh Mujibur Rehman and the whole family was assassinated. This was followed by the doing away of democracy and Sheikh Hasina only returned in 1980. Time will tell what the future holds for the Awami League. It has great support in Bangladesh in each and every village, but at the moment it is tarred by the recent rule of Sheikh Hasina. In time it will recover, but the legacy of Sheikh Hasina who provided great economic growth is tarred -- and also of Sheikh Mujib who is the father of Bangladesh and the embodiment of the liberation movement. These have been damaged extensively. IMAGE: Border Security Force Director-General Daljit Singh Chaudhary visits the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district and Sunderbans, August 5, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo There are allegations that the Pakistan mission in Dhaka was active in fomenting trouble. Do you think the quota agitation was sufficient reason for the enormous conflagration? The quota issue was not sufficient reason for this mass upsurge. The situation was grave and needed a spark. Once the students took to the streets, people from all walks of life joined the movement. I think it was a spontaneous mass upsurge. The powers who hope to gain from this will intervene and I am sure the Pakistanis will not have missed the opportunity. Also other political and Islamic parties not favourable to India would have jumped on the bandwagon, but it is largely a mass upsurge. People's fear of coming out on the streets was broken by the students. I don't think it is completely instigated by foreign powers. We have to admit that there was serious anti-government sentiment in Bangladesh and we will be deluding ourselves to think it was only manipulated by others. IMAGE: People celebrate Sheikh Hasina's resignation with the coordinators of the anti-quota protests in Dhaka, August 5, 2024. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters Does this mean a return to military rule in Bangladesh? Well, it has. The army chief has said he will be meeting the president to form an interim government. It remains to be seen who constitutes the interim government. I don't think it will be an all-party government because then he will have to accommodate the Awami League which I doubt the people will accept as part of the government. The BNP has said it will only contest elections if there is a caretaker government. Once can't say how long will it take the army to restore order in Bangladesh. Common sense dictates that after having thrown Sheikh Hasina out, most people would want peace, law and order, and go home. We can only wait and watch. IMAGE: Border Security Force personnel keep vigil at the India-Bangladesh border check post at Hili in South Dinajpur, August 05, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo What are your thoughts about General Waker-uz-Zaman, the army chief, who seems to be the man in charge now? He was the senior-most army officer. He is also related to Sheikh Hasina. The tendency in South Asia is that even if you are the most competent person, but if you happen to be related to the powers that be, people tend to suspect the worst about you. I don't know what stature he has in the army. There were reports that young officers were upset about how the army had been used by Sheikh Hasina. I don't know how much they will accept his authority without question, but the first priority is to restore order. IMAGE: People celebrate Sheikh Hasina's resignation. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters How worried will the ministry of external affairs be about development in Bangladesh? Disorder in the neighbourhood is not the best prospect that one wants. The concern would be that it should not be taken advantage of by those inimical to India. The MEA has said that it is an internal matter and will hope that order is restored. It was strongly believed that Sheikh Hasina was headed to London? It will be strange if she takes a house next to Tarique Rahman! [exiled acting chairman of the BNP and opposition leader Khaleda Zia's son.] Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com With the situation in Bangladesh snowballing into a major political turmoil, a former Indian high commissioner to Dhaka has cautioned that India will have to be "very vigilant" on the border in the wake of the crisis even as he asserted that New Delhi will be "prepared for all eventualities". IMAGE: People celebrate the resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka on August 5, 2024. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters Pankaj Saran, a veteran diplomat and former envoy of India to Bangladesh during whose tenure the historic Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) was ratified by the Indian Parliament in 2015, said on Monday that one cannot say when would things settle down in the neighbouring country. "We will just have to wait for different political forces to find some equilibrium inside Bangladesh," he said. Sheikh Hasina, 76, resigned as prime minister of Bangladesh and left the country on Monday amid mass protests against her government. Thousands of protesters looted and vandalised her official residence in Dhaka. Saran, who served as India's high commissioner in Dhaka from 2012 to 2015, said that "trouble has been brewing" for the last few weeks and the government was "not able to bring it under control". "The last two days saw an escalation in the level of protests. Therefore, some decisions had to be taken about how to go forward in controlling the protests. "I think, the situation reached a point where it was clear that curfews and other restrictions were not adequate. Police and security forces' actions were not adequate and the only resort that was left was to bring in the army," he told PTI. The former envoy said, "Hasina was left with no choice but to step down". "The only issue left was ensuring her safety, which the (Bangladesh) army helped in arranging. So, now we are in a situation where essentially the army has taken over. "They have announced the establishment of an interim government. Who is going to be a part of the government, that is something they are going to discuss with the president," he added. Saran said the "next couple of days will be critical" and it needs to be seen what impact her resignation has on the situation on the ground. "There is a power vacuum right now which is being filled by the army. But... now we have to see... whether this situation and this development will lead to a halt in street protests and return of the students... and a reduction in street violence. That we have to see." "We will also have to see the extent of attacks on Awami League members, members of the government and other supporters. All this will play out and (it needs to be seen) how much the army will be able to manage and control the situation. I think it is clear that there are ... political forces who are using students' grievances as an opportunity to settle political scores," he said. This a "new Bangladesh, a new generation" that has come and their mentality is "very different" from the Bangladesh of 40 years or 30 years ago, the former envoy said, adding how much of an impact these political elements will have on the popular psyche is also to be seen. India and Bangladesh share historical ties, with New Delhi having rendered crucial assistance to Dhaka during the Liberation War of 1971. Asked about the immediate repercussions of the current events on India-Bangladesh ties, he said, "Obviously, there could be an overreaction to the past. This overreaction could manifest itself in some trouble at the border, some anti-India statement." "So, we have to be alert on the border to make sure this does not lead to movement of any people from Bangladesh to India... We will have to be very vigilant on the border. That is the immediate requirement," Saran said. India and Bangladesh share 4,096.7 km of border -- the longest land boundary that India shares with any of its neighbours. Saran said the longer this environment continues, the more impact it will have on Bangladesh's economy because it is inherently integrated with the Indian economy. "So, there will be a further downtrend in the situation in Bangladesh on the economic side. But, once things settle down, and it may take a few months... we will just have to wait for different political forces to kind of find some equilibrium inside Bangladesh," he said. While the government-to-government relationship will obviously be impacted, the people-to-people relation and trade will go on, the former envoy said. "But, we will not go back to business as usual," Saran underlined. Asked that since the Land Boundary Agreement ratification could happen in the past, could the two countries again go the distance in the long run, he said whether it is Bangladesh or any other country, "you make the best of relations in any given time". "There was a government in Dhaka which wanted to move and resolve issues. We did all that. It does not mean that it cannot happen again in future. "When we had the chance, the alignment of the two leaderships was correct, we achieved a lot. Now, we just have to wait and see what is the kind of political dispensation that comes up in Bangladesh," Saran said. He asserted that India-Bangladesh "achieved a lot under Hasina". That is very good and the relationship has to continue and grow, he said. "I am sure we will be prepared for all eventualities. I think, everyone in Dhaka today is aware that that they need good relations, normal relations with India, but the question... but it's premature to think about that now, right now it is a crisis moment," Saran added. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday told an all-party meeting that India has assured help to former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who arrived in New Delhi on Monday evening, and given her time to decide the future course of action, sources said. IMAGE: The government convenes an all-party meeting on the Bangladesh issue. Photograph: @DrSJaishankar/X Briefing political party leaders in Parliament House, Jaishankar said India has spoken to the Bangladesh Army Chief to ensure the safety of over 10,000 Indian students in that country, the sources said. Replying to questions from various leaders, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, the minister did not rule out the role of foreign governments in the unrest in the country but emphasised that the situation was too fluid, and the government has been keeping a watch on the evolving situation, they said. At the meeting, Gandhi asked if foreign governments might be involved in fuelling the crisis there. Jaishankar said that households and properties belonging to minorities were targeted by protestors in the neighbouring country. Noting that it has been not even 24 hours since Hasina arrived in India, he said she is in a state of shock and the government is giving her time to recover before it speaks to her over various issues, including her future plans, the sources said. The External Affairs Minister is scheduled to make a statement on the issue in the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha. Various leaders, including Gandhi, conveyed their full cooperation to the government on the issue. YSR Congress leader V Vijaysai Reddy said his party supports the government in the interest of the country. "Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended," Jaishankar posted on X after the meeting. Congress leader Karti Chidambaram said the government had briefed an all-party meeting on the situation in Bangladesh. "Congress party is fully with the government as far as national security and national interest are concerned," Chidambaram told PTI. However, he was not present at the meeting. Bangladesh plunged into uncertainty after extraordinary street protests over job quota forced Hasina to quit and flee. The all-party meeting was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Health Minister J P Nadda, Janata Dal-United leader and Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh Lalan', Janata Dal-Secular leader and Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam leader T R Baalu, Samajwadi Party leader Ram Gopal Yadav, Trinamool Congress leader Sudip Bandypapdhyay, Nationalist Congress Party leader Supriya Sule among others. Ahead of the meeting, Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Raut had said that the rulers in India should learn lessons from the developments in Bangladesh. When democracy faces danger and those in power become dictators wearing a mask of democracy, the people of the country tolerate them for a while and then there is anarchy, Raut said. Communist Party of India-Marxist member P Santosh Kumar said the situation in Bangladesh was very volatile. We are with the people of Bangladesh, not with Jamaat-e-Islami, military or with Sheikh Hasina. We are with students of Bangladesh. This is the fate of all autocrats," Kumar said. Samajwadi Party member Virendra Singh said the situation in Bangladesh was a message for all countries which do not listen to people's voices. Similar situations happen in countries where attempts to end democracy and bring dictatorship take place. It is very unfortunate," Singh said. BJP Rajya Sabha member Lahar Singh Siroya said the government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are keeping an eye on the whole issue. "They would have been taking necessary steps. Our country is capable of handling the issue," the BJP Rajya Sabha member said. 'Our border guarding forces have also been instructed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation.' India is "deeply concerned" over the situation in Bangladesh, especially about the status of the minority communities, in view of attacks on their businesses and temples in multiple locations and New Delhi is in touch with authorities in Dhaka, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Tuesday, a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and landed at the Hindon airbase near Delhi. IMAGE: Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Photograph: ANI Photo In India's first reaction to the dramatic developments in Bangladesh, Jaishankar, in identical statements in both houses of Parliament, said Hasina decided to resign after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment and requested for approval "at very short notice" to come to India "for the moment." "We are also monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organizations to ensure their protection and well-being," he said. "We welcome that, but will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored. Our border guarding forces have also been instructed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation," he added. Jaishankar said New Delhi is in "close and continuous" touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through its diplomatic missions. Top sources said India has already reached out to the new dispensation in Dhaka and sought safety and well-being of over 10,000 Indians presently residing in Bangladesh. Hasina, who was forced to resign and flee Bangladesh following massive protests has been shifted to a safe location in Delhi under tight security, they said. It is learnt that New Delhi has conveyed to 76-year-old Awami League leader that she can stay in India till her travel plans for taking refuge in another country is finalised. Though Hasina, accompanied by her sister Sheikh Rehana, wanted to travel to London, the UK is understood to have conveyed that it is unlikely to heed to her request for asylum. Following this, she is considering several options for including the United Arab Emirates, the US, Belarus, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Finland, said a source. In his remarks in Parliament, Jaishankar said India-Bangladesh relations have been "exceptionally close" for many decades over many governments, adding concern about recent violence and instability in that country is shared across the political spectrum. Delving into the developments leading up to Hasina's resignation following weeks of students' protests, Jaishankar said New Delhi had "repeatedly counselled restraint and urged that the situation be diffused through dialogue". "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students," he said. The external affairs minister said the bulk of the students have already returned to India in the month of July, adding it is India's expectation that the host government will provide the required security protection to the Indian missions in Bangladesh. Hasina, who ruled the South Asian country with an iron fist for 15 years, resigned as the prime minister on Monday following massive protests that initially began as an agitation against a job quota scheme but weeks later morphed into a mass movement demanding her ouster from power. Jaishankar said India is looking forward to the normal functioning of the Indian missions once the situation stabilizes. "In terms of our diplomatic presence, in addition to the High Commission in Dhaka, we have Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna and Sylhet," he said. The external affairs minister also touched upon the dramatic developments in Bangladesh. "On August 4, events took a very serious turn. Attacks on police, including police stations and government installations, intensified even as overall levels of violence greatly escalated," he said. "Properties of individuals associated with the regime were torched across the country. What was particularly worrying was that minorities, their businesses and temples also came under attack at multiple locations. The full extent of this is still not clear," he said. The external affairs minister also briefed an all-party meeting about the situation in Bangladesh and said the Indian side has spoken to Hasina on her future course of action. He, however, did not disclose the details, the sources said. In his remarks in Parliament, Jaishankar briefly touched upon developments on August 5 in Dhaka and said the demonstrators converged in the Bangladesh capital despite the curfew. "Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign," he said. "At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he added. Jaishankar described the situation in Bangladesh as "still evolving". "The Army Chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman, addressed the nation on August 5. He spoke about assuming responsibility and constituting an interim government," Jaishankar said. Talking about the genesis of the problem in the neighbouring country, he said there has been "considerable tensions, deep divides and growing polarisation" in Bangladesh politics since the January parliamentary polls. "This underlying foundation aggravated a student agitation that started in June this year. There was growing violence, including attacks on public buildings and infrastructure, as well as traffic and rail obstructions," he said. "The violence continued through the month of July. Throughout this period, we repeatedly counselled restraint and urged that the situation be defused through dialogue. Similar urgings were made to various political forces with whom we were in touch," he said. "Despite a Supreme Court judgement on July 21, there was no let-up in the public agitation. Various decisions and actions taken thereafter only exacerbated the situation. The agitation at this stage coalesced around a one-point agenda, that is that the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina should step down," he said. Earlier in the morning, Dr Jaishankar briefed leaders of political parties about the Bangladesh situation and later called on Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar in the Parliament complex. Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina's plan to travel to London has hit a roadblock over some "uncertainties" and she is unlikely to move out of India for the next couple of days, people familiar with the matter said on Tuesday. IMAGE: Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had planned to travel to London through India. Photograph: ANI Photo Hasina, who landed at the Hindon airbase on Monday in a C-130J military transport aircraft hours after resigning as the prime minister, has been shifted to an unspecified location under tight security, they said. The former Bangladesh prime minister, accompanied by her sister Sheikh Rehana, planned to leave for London from India to take temporary refuge but the option is not being pursued now. This is after the UK government indicated that she may not get legal protection against any possible probe into the massive violent protests in her country, they said. The Awami League leader planned to travel to London through India and her aides informed Indian authorities about it before she landed in Hindon, the people cited above said. Hasina decided to travel to London as Rehana's daughter Tulip Siddiq is a member of the British Parliament. Tulip is economic secretary to the Treasury and Labour MP for Hampstead and Highgate. In a statement, British foreign secretary David Lammy said in London on Monday that Bangladesh has seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life in the last two weeks and people of the country "deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events". The people in the know said Hasina has apprised New Delhi about her possible future steps. It is also learnt that Hasina has family members in Finland as well and that is why she also contemplated leaving for the northern European country. While saying that Hasina's travel plans have hit certain issues and she may stay in the country for the next couple of days, the people also described the situation as dynamic with no definitive path or clarity on the matter. The 76-year-old who ruled the South Asian country with an iron fist for 15 years, resigned as the prime minister following the massive protests that initially began as an agitation against a job quota scheme but weeks later morphed into a mass movement demanding her ouster from power. The controversial quota system provided for 30 per cent reservations in civil services jobs for the families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. Hasina's Awami League retained power in the parliamentary election in January that was boycotted by the opposition parties. The former Bangladesh prime minister left her official residence Ganabhavan in a military chopper to an airbase, the sources said. From the airbase, she flew into Hindon in a C-130 military transport aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force, they said. Bangladesh's former prime minister Sheikh Hasina has been a "good friend of India" and if she wishes to stay on, the central government is likely to consider it "very favourably", a former high commissioner of India to Bangladesh said on Tuesday. IMAGE: A mural of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is seen vandalised by protesters as people celebrate her resignation in Dhaka, Bangladesh, August 5, 2024. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters Hasina landed at the Hindon airbase near Delhi on Monday as part of her plan to go to London, hours after she resigned as the Bangladesh prime minister following weeks of anti-government protests that killed nearly 300 people. The embattled Bangladesh leader's plan to travel to London has hit a roadblock over some "uncertainties" and she is unlikely to move out of India for the next couple of days, people familiar with the matter said on Tuesday. Veena Sikri, the former envoy, said India has "always helped" the people of Bangladesh in "all problems". "Sheikh Hasina, the Awami League, the forces of Liberation, I am going back to 1971, they have always been friends with India. And, I am taking you to 1971...India, the Awami League and Muktijodha fought shoulder-to-shoulder for the liberation of Bangladesh. "There has been a great empathy and understanding...mutual friendship, mutual respect and mutual understanding between the Awami League and India, between the people of Bangladesh and India. And, India has always helped them in all problems," Sikri told PTI. "So, right now when Sheikh Hasina has been forced to leave her country, and she is now in India, if she wishes to stay in India, I am sure our government will consider it very favourably," Sikri added. The veteran diplomat said Hasina has stayed in India before after the assassination of her father and Bangladesh independence hero Sheikh Mujibur Rahman who later became the country's prime minister. Rahman was assassinated in August 1975. "She was in India for a long time, she was in India for many years and then she went back to Bangladesh and became a leader of the Awami League. This question whether she should stay or not, be left for a little while, to let her decide, let the situation evolve," Sikri said. The former envoy further said "they know former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been a good friend of India. And, she has worked very closely with people of India, all across...with all the states, West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya. So, I don't think there is any problem in that". "If she should be staying, it is up to her right now. There is a news that she would like to go to London to stay with her sister, who lives in London. That is one aspect, maybe they are awaiting clearance from the government of the UK. All these issues are there, it is a very volatile and complex situation," she said. "From my point of view, if she is staying on in India, there would be no major problem," she added. Hasina, 76, resigned as prime minister of Bangladesh and left the country amid unprecedented mass protests against her government. She later arrived in India on her way to London, diplomatic sources had said on Monday. Asked if presence of Hasina in India will impact ties with the new dispensation that will come up, Sikri said that as far as other political parties are concerned, whether it is BNP (Bangladesh Nationalist Party) or Jamaat-i-Islami Bangaldesh, "their views on India are well-known". "But, it is not that we don't talk to them, we are in touch with all political parties, I myself have been there as a high commissioner. And, I was always in touch with all political groups. "At that time, the BNP was in power. So, I was fully in touch with then Prime Minister... with all ministers of the government, Jamaat-i-Islami and also Awami League. Sheikh Hasina was the leader of opposition, but I was in touch with her too, closely in touch with her," she added. "I think in any country, it is important to keep in touch with all political forces," the former envoy to Dhaka said. Pankaj Saran, another veteran diplomat who served as envoy of India to Bangladesh from 2012-2015, on Monday told PTI, "I think it is clear that there are political forces who are using students' grievances as an opportunity to settle political scores." Sikri too has said that had it been purely a student movement, it would have "petered out" after the government responded to its demand. As the situation remains volatile, on India-Bangladesh ties, she said, "We will have to see how it develops". "I am sure that the relationship between India and Bangladesh can continue to develop on the basis of mutual respect, mutual understanding, mutual benefit and mutual sensitivities. We have to be aware of each other's interests," she added. The high commission of India in London on Tuesday issued a safety advisory for Indian nationals to stay vigilant and exercise due caution amid ongoing violent clashes which have targeted immigrants and asylum-seekers in parts of the UK since last week. IMAGE: Flames burn as demonstrators take part in an anti-immigration protest in Rotherham, south Yorkshire. Photograph: Hollie Adams/Reuters The advisory posted on the social media channels of the Indian mission also provides emergency contact information for anyone in need of urgent assistance. It comes a week after the fatal stabbing of three young girls in Southport, north-west England, and incorrect social media claims over the UK-born suspect's asylum-seeker status. Indian travellers would be aware of recent disturbances in some parts of the United Kingdom. The High Commission of India in London is closely monitoring the situation, reads the message entitled Advisory for Indian Citizens Visiting the UK.' Visitors from India are advised to stay vigilant and exercise due caution while travelling in the UK. It is advisable to follow local news and advisories issued by local security agencies, and to avoid areas where protests are underway, it added. The contact provided for India House at Aldwych, London, in case of an emergency is: +44-2078369147 and inf.london@mea.gov.in. Birmingham in the north and Plymouth in southern England witnessed the latest scenes of clashes between two sets of protesters overnight on Monday. A man is in a serious condition in hospital after being attacked in a suspected hate crime in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and police officers were attacked with bricks in Darlington, northern England. PTI AK The British government said it has accelerated its plans to deal with prison capacity to ensure sufficient space for an expected rise in prisoners due to rioting after hundreds of arrests have been made. I think we have seen serious acts of violence designed to cause terror to a section of our community," Neil Basu, the former head of counter-terrorism policing, told the BBC. Basu also blamed social media companies for not taking tough enough action to clampdown on misinformation and said we should be appealing to advertisers to cut the funding of social media giants if responsibility was not exercised. Meanwhile, the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) and Department for Science, Innovation and Technology are investigating the role of foreign state actors amplifying misinformation and disinformation about the UK riots, including cracking down on automated online bots. "Clearly we have seen bot activity online, much of which may well be amplified with the involvement of state actors amplifying some of the disinformation and misinformation that we've seen," said Prime Minister Keir Starmer's official spokesperson, but declined to say which states may be involved. On Monday after a high-level COBRA security meeting, Starmer pledged a standing army of specialist officers to stamp out the riots across several cities in the country, which he has termed as far-right thuggery. I've asked for the early consideration of the earliest naming and identification of those involved in the process, who will feel the full force of the law, he said. Many of his own Labour Party MPs and Opposition members are calling for Parliament to be recalled from its summer recess to debate the issue, but Starmer has so far insisted the government needs to focus on restoring calm on the streets. The trigger of the riots lies in Southport, near Liverpool, which was the scene of the stabbing of a group of young children at a Taylor Swift themed dance class on July 29. Axel Rudakubana, 17, who has been charged with three murders and other attempted murders, was born in Cardiff, Wales, to Rwandan parents. However, initial false social media posts claimed he was a refugee who arrived last year on a small boat. On Monday, August 5, 2024, Bangladesh descended into chaos with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fleeing the country after announcing her resignation. The army stepped in to fill the power vacuum, ending one uncertain chapter and opening another in the nation's restive history. Thousands of protestors looted and vandalised Hasina's official residence Ganabhaban in Dhaka as they celebrated her departure as prime minister. IMAGE: A person sits on a looted sofa from Ganabhaban. All Photographs: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters IMAGE: People carry looted items from Ganabhaban. IMAGE: A man carries a looted item from Ganabhaban. IMAGE: People pose for a picture with the Bangladesh flag as they sit on a sofa looted from Ganabhaban. IMAGE: People stand on top a vehicle inside Ganabhaban. IMAGE: People enter Ganabhaban. IMAGE: A man holding a Bangladesh flag stands in front of a vehicle that was set on fire at Ganabhaban. IMAGE: People write the names of those who died during the protests on the wall of a room inside Ganabhaban. Photographs curated by Anant Salvi/Rediff.com Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com According to the ministry, the situations at these countries are becoming complicated, endangering the safety of citizens' lives and property. For Vietnamese citizens in Lebanon, they are advised to quickly leave with their belongings to a third country or to Viet Nam. Vietnamese citizens should comply with regulations and instructions on security and safety measures of the local authorities and regularly monitor warning information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (the Consular Department or Vietnamese Embassies in Egypt, Iran, Israel and neighboring countries) to respond promptly. Citizens are requested to contact the following citizen protection hotlines in case they need support: The Vietnamese Embassy in Egypt (cum- Lebanon): +201 02 613 9869. The Vietnamese Embassy in Iran: + 98 21 224 11670. The Vietnamese Embassy in Israel: +972 50 818 6116. Citizen protection hotline of the Consular Department under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: +84 981 84 84 84./. Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader and former deputy prime minister LK Advani was on Tuesday admitted to a leading private hospital in Delhi, sources said. IMAGE: BJP stalwart LK Advani. Photograph: ANI Photo His medical condition is stable, they said. The 96-year-old, who was born in undivided India, was admitted to the Apollo hospital in New Delhi today, a hospital source told PTI. Apollo hospital later issued a brief statement, saying "L K Advani ji, former deputy prime minister of India, is admitted at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals under the care of Dr Vinit Suri. He has been admitted for his regular follow-up tests and investigations". He is likely to be discharged soon, it said. The source added that Advani is likely to be discharged on Wednesday. In the first week of July too, Advani was brought to this facility and discharged after being kept under observation for a couple of days. He was admitted under Dr Vinit Suri, senior consultant, neurology department. Prior to that he had been admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences and was discharged following a night-long stay there. Attendance at various government offices in Dhaka on Tuesday remained low amid growing fear and anxiety after the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government, local media reports said. IMAGE: Army personnel clear an entrance of the Ganabhaban, the Bangladeshi prime minister's residence, a day after the resignation of Sheikh Hasina as PM, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, August 6, 2024. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters Bangladesh descended into chaos after former prime minister Hasina resigned and fled the country in a military aircraft while the Army stepped in to fill the power vacuum. On the first day after the fall of Hasina's government, a tense atmosphere prevailed at the secretariat on Tuesday, the Dhaka Tribune newspaper reported. Attendance in the ministry offices was significantly low, and ministers and Members of Parliament were notably absent. Those who did come to work were filled with fear and anxiety, the paper said. It was reported that the central office of the Awami League on Bangabandhu Avenue was set on fire the previous night, with looting and vandalism taking place. The smell of the fire from the AL office in the morning could be sensed by the secretariat, increasing the fear among the officers and employees, the paper said. There were also rumours among employees that the office had been closed. Following Hasina's resignation, the Inter-Services Public Relations Directorate announced that a curfew would be in effect from midnight on Monday until 6 am on Tuesday. Later, all government, semi-government, autonomous, semi-autonomous, private institutions, factories, schools, colleges, madrasas, and universities reopened on Tuesday morning. Previously, the Ministry of Public Administration had declared a three-day general holiday starting Monday. The entry passes to the secretariat were cancelled on Tuesday. Only a small number of police officers were seen on duty at the main gate, accompanied by army personnel. Army members were also seen on duty alongside police officers at the home ministry office. Meanwhile, banners and festoons related to the mournful month of August were removed, and pictures of Hasina were taken down from government offices. However, the nameplates of ministers and state ministers remained, the paper added. Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved Parliament on Tuesday and appointed Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus as the head of an interim government, a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina abruptly resigned and fled the country following weeks of violent protests. IMAGE: Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus . Photograph: Dijeshwar Singh/Saab Pictures/Rediff Archives The decision was made in a meeting President Shahabuddin had with chiefs of the three services and a 13-member delegation of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement at Bangabhaban (presidential palace), President's Press Secretary Md. Joynal Abedin said late Tuesday night. The other members of the interim government will be finalised after consultations with various political parties, the president's press secretary said. While the Army took charge on Monday, incidents of violence were reported overnight in many parts of the country and the death toll due to the unrest since mid-July rose to 440. A number of Hindu temples, households and businesses were vandalised, women assaulted and at least two Hindu leaders affiliated with the Awami League party headed by Hasina were killed in the violence in Bangladesh after she fled the country, according to two community leaders in Dhaka. The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement that spearheaded the massive protests has earlier said that 84-year-old Yunus had agreed to head the interim government. Yunus is currently out of the country but welcomed the ouster of Sheikh Hasina's regime, describing the development as the 'second liberation" of the country. Yunus won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his anti-poverty campaign through the Grameen Bank, a model replicated across continents. Hasina landed at the Hindon airbase, near Delhi, on Monday in a Bangladesh military aircraft and is unlikely to move out of India for the next couple of days, people familiar with the matter said in New Delhi. She has been shifted to an unspecified location under tight security, they said. With army and police personnel patrolling the streets, the situation in Dhaka was largely calm on Tuesday, local media reported. Buses and other public transport were on the streets and traders were opening shops. Government vehicles were heading to offices. Many battery-run rickshaws plied the roads, it added. According to local media, 100 more deaths in the Monday violence were reported taking the toll to 440. "The death toll(in the violence) stood at 440 in 21 days from July 16 to yesterday," the Prothom Alo said. The President's move to dissolve Parliament has cleared the way for fresh elections, just months after the January polls which brought Hasina to power again for the fourth consecutive term. The opposition had then boycotted the polls. "The President dissolved the Jatiya Sangsad (Parliament) under an executive order," a Bangabhaban spokesman told PTI. "The decision to dissolve the Parliament was taken following the President's discussions with chiefs of three staff of armed forces, leaders of different political parties, representatives of civil society and leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement," said a statement issued by the President's office, even as a major reshuffle was carried out in the top positions in the Army. In a video posted on social media early Tuesday, Nahid Islam, one of the key coordinators of the student movement, proposed Yunus as the head of the interim government. He said they have already talked with Yunus, who has agreed to take the "responsibility to save Bangladesh". "No government other than the one proposed by the students will be accepted. As we have said, no military government, or one backed by the military, or a government of fascists, will be accepted," said Nahid, flanked by two other coordinators. Yunus has agreed to lead the interim government as its chief adviser, the Daily Star reported, citing a source. "If the students can sacrifice so much, if the people of the country can sacrifice so much, then I also have some responsibility. Then I told the students that I can take the responsibility," Yunus said. Yunus had been locked in a protracted row with the Hasina government due to obscure reasons while authorities initiated a series of investigations against him after she came to power in 2008. He was charged under dozens of cases. In January, Yunus was sentenced to six months in jail by a court on charges of labour law violation. Meanwhile, Bangladesh Nationalist Party chief and ex-premier Khaleda Zia was released from house arrest, according to the Presidential spokesman. The 79-year-old former prime minister has long battled various ailments, including issues related to the kidney, lung and heart. The process to free those arrested Since July 1 has started, and many have already been released, he added. Fresh clashes between protesters demanding Hasina's resignation over the quota system in government jobs and the ruling Awami League supporters in different parts of Bangladesh erupted on Sunday days after more than 200 people were killed in violent clashes between police and mostly student protesters in July. At least 24 people were burnt alive last night in a hotel owned by a leader of the Awami League in the western Joshor district, hospital sources said. The educational institutions were reopened on Tuesday following a long period of closure due to violence surrounding the student movement. However, the educational institutions in Dhaka saw low attendance, the Dhaka Tribune newspaper reported. Attendance in the ministry offices was significantly low, and ministers and Members of Parliament were notably absent. Those who did come to work were filled with fear and anxiety, it added. Army members also were seen on duty alongside police officers at the home ministry office. The death toll in the anti-government protests in Bangladesh on Tuesday climbed to 440, with 100 more deaths reported after Sheikh Hasina fled the country, according to local media, even as efforts were on by the army to bring the situation under control in the violence-hit nation. IMAGE: Protestors vandalise the statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Bangladesh's 'Father of the Nation', at Bijoy Sarani area, as they celebrate the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Dhaka, August 5, 2024. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters Despite the high death toll, there were signs of a return to normalcy on Tuesday, with police and army patrolling the streets, BDNews24.com news portal said and added that schools were reopened after a long period of closure due to protests against Hasina over a controversial job quota system. The situation in Dhaka was largely calm on Tuesday after a day of unrest and a night of tension. Buses and other public transport were on the streets and traders were opening shops. Government vehicles were heading to offices. Many battery-run rickshaws plied the roads, it added. Bengali language daily Prothom Alo reported that at least 109 people were killed in clashes in different parts of the country, including Dhaka, during the anti-discrimination student movement on Monday. The newspaper earlier reported the death of 98 people till 12 pm on Sunday. Another 16 deaths were reported in the night. The total death toll stood at 114 on Sunday. "With this, the total death toll stood at 440 in 21 days from July 16 to yesterday," the paper said. The clashes between protesters demanding Hasina's resignation over the quota system in government jobs and the ruling Awami League supporters in different parts of Bangladesh erupted on Sunday days after more than 200 people were killed in violent clashes between police and mostly student protesters in July. Prothom Alo said that 37 bodies were brought to the Dhaka Medical College Hospital between 11 am and 8 pm on Monday. Citing hospital sources, it said 500 people were brought to the hospital with various injuries, including bullet injuries, on Monday. As the news of Hasina's departure spread on Monday, hundreds of people broke into her residence, vandalising and looting the interiors, providing dramatic expression to the anti-government protests. Hasina's private residence Sudha Sadan and other establishments were attacked, vandalised and set on fire in the capital. The residences and business establishments of ministers, party MPs and leaders of Hasina's Awami League government were also attacked in Dhaka and outside Dhaka. The Dhaka Tribune newspaper reported that at least 18 people were killed in Savar and Dhamrai areas, on the outskirts of the capital, after clashes broke out between police and miscreants on Monday. Ten people were killed in the capital's Uttara on Monday after individuals in civilian clothes reportedly opened fire on protesters. Six people were killed in Habiganj, eight in Jessore, three in Khulna, three in Barisal, 11 in Lakshmipur, six in Kushtia, three in Satkhira and six in Sreepur of Gazipur, the paper said. At least 24 people were burnt alive last night in a hotel owned by a leader of Awami League of in western Joshor district, hospital sources said. Late Monday night, President Mohammed Shahabuddin asked all the political parties to normalise the law and order situation in the country and directed the armed forces to take stern measures to protect the lives and properties of the people and state assets. The educational institutions were reopened on Tuesday following a long period of closure due to violence surrounding the student movement. However, the educational institutions in Dhaka saw low attendance, the Dhaka Tribune newspaper reported. "The institution is open, and some girls have come, but attendance is low. Attendance will increase in a couple of days," Md Rahamot Ullah, principal of Kisholoy Girls' School and College in the Mohammadpur area of the capital, was quoted as saying by the paper. On the first day after the fall of Hasina's government, a tense atmosphere prevailed at the Secretariat on Tuesday, the paper reported. The entry passes to the Secretariat were cancelled. Only a small number of police officers were seen on duty at the main gate, accompanied by army personnel. Army members were also seen on duty alongside police officers at the Home Ministry office. Attendance of officers and employees in the ministry offices was significantly low, and ministers and Members of Parliament were notably absent. Those who did come to work were filled with fear and anxiety, it added. Meanwhile, banners and festoons related to the mournful month of August were removed, and pictures of Hasina were taken down from various offices. Trouble had been steadily escalating since the government's announcement of the quota system in June this year. Floods wreak havoc across the nation, leaving countless people stranded and in urgent need of assistance. IMAGE: Temples in Nashik partially submerged in the Godavari river after the rise in water levels following incessant rainfall, August 5, 2024, here and below. All photographs: ANI Photo IMAGE: The Indian Army rescues people stranded due to waterlogging in residential societies on the banks of the Mutha river in Pune, August 3, 2024, here and below. IMAGE: The Indian Army rescues people stranded due to waterlogging following incessant rainfall at the Suryawanshi Colony in Sangli, August 3, 2024, here and below. IMAGE: Villagers near a broken dam of the Kuye river due to heavy rain at Labpur in Birbhum, West Bengal, August 4, 2024, here and below. IMAGE: Women wade through a waterlogged road after heavy rainfall in Guwahati, August 5, 2024. IMAGE: A man drags his two-wheeler through a waterlogged road in Guwahati. IMAGE: People wade through a waterlogged road in Guwahati, here and below. IMAGE: Vansda police personnel rescue tourists stranded in Vangan village after a rise in the water level of the Kaveri river following sudden heavy rainfall at Vansda in Navsari, August 5, 2024. IMAGE: A drone visual of the rising water level of the Ambika river in Navsari. IMAGE: Houses waterlogged following heavy rainfall at Bilimora in Navsari. IMAGE: Roads are damaged in Valsad as water from the Auranga river gushes in after a rise in water levels following heavy rainfall. IMAGE: The water level of the Pushkar lake rises due to heavy rainfall in Ajmer, August 5, 2024. IMAGE: Cars stuck on an inundated road following heavy rainfall in Bhubaneswar. Photographs curated by Anant Salvi/Rediff.com Feature Presentation: Mahipal Soni/Rediff.com Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was given just 45 minutes by the Bangladesh Army to leave the country on Monday, multiple media reports claimed. IMAGE: Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Photograph: Shrikant Singh/ANI Photo Sheikh Hasina, who resigned as the prime minister of Bangladesh on Monday, was forced to leave the country amid mass protests against her government. At one point prior to her exit, Sheikh Hasina said, pointing to the IGP, that they (the police) are doing well (in controlling the situation), reports the Dhaka-based Bangla newspaper, Prothom Alo. According to the newspaper, the IGP replied that the situation had reached a point where even the police will no longer be able to hold on. Top officials tried to explain to Hasina that it was no longer possible for the situation to be controlled by force. Sheikh Hasina, however, was unwilling to accept that. The officials then spoke to Hasina's sister Sheikh Rehana in a separate room. They explained the situation to her and asked her to convince Sheikh Hasina. Rehana then talked to Hasina, but the latter was still determined to hold on to power. Then, one of the top officers called Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, who was abroad. Joy then spoke over the phone to his mother after which Sheikh Hasina agreed to resign. Sources said that Hasina wanted to broadcast a message to the nation before leaving Bangladesh, but by then intelligence reports had come in that a large number of students had started their march from Shahbagh and Uttara in Dhaka. Given the distance to the prime minister's residence, it was estimated that it would take 45 minutes for the demonstrators to reach Ganabhaban from Shahbagh. There may not be enough time to record a speech, it was felt. Taking all this into consideration, Sheikh Hasina was told to get ready to leave the nation within 45 minutes. After that Hasina and her sister Sheikh Rehana reached the helipad in the old airport in Tejgaon. Some of their luggage was loaded on to an aircraft. Finally, at around 2.30 pm on Monday, Sheikh Hasina and her younger sister left by a military helicopter for India. The same Islamists who threw her out have forced Sheikh Hasina to leave Bangladesh, says author Taslima Nasreen, exiled from the country in the 1990s following protests over her book Lajja. IMAGE: Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen. Photograph: ANI Photo On Monday, Hasina resigned and fled the country amid massive public anger over her government's controversial quota system reserving 30 per cent jobs for families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. More than 400 people have been killed in the protests. Finding Hasina's situation ironic, Nasreen said in a post on X, "Hasina in order to please Islamists threw me out of my country in 1999 after I entered Bangladesh to see my mother in her deathbed and never allowed me to enter the country again. The same Islamists have been in the student movement who forced Hasina to leave the country today." Nasreen has been living in exile since 1994 after she faced criticism from Islamist fundamentalists for her writings on communalism and women's equality in Bangladesh. Some of her books, including her breakthrough novel Lajja (1993) and her autobiography Amar Meyebela (1998), were banned by the Bangladesh government for their subject matter. Lajja attracted severe criticism as it detailed violence, rape, lootings and killings of Bengali Hindus after the Babri Masjid demolition in India. "Hasina had to resign and leave the country. She was responsible for her situation. She made Islamists to grow. She allowed her people to involve in corruption. Now Bangladesh must not become like Pakistan. Army must not rule. Political parties should bring democracy & secularism," the feminist author said in another post on Monday. As her country descended into chaos, Hasina fled in a military aircraft and landed in Hindon near New Delhi while the army stepped in to fill the power vacuum. On Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar told an all-party meeting that India has assured her help and given her time to decide the future course of action. The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked Indian Medical Association president RV Asokan whether his unconditional apology to the apex court over his "damaging" statements in an interview with PTI was published in all those newspapers which carried his interview. IMAGE: A view of the Supreme Court of India. Photograph: ANI Photo In the interview, where he had answered queries about Patanjali Ayurved Ltd's misleading advertisements case, Asokan had said it was "unfortunate" that the Supreme Court criticised the association and also some of the practices of private doctors. The court also observed that the apology needs to be published in the newspapers by Asokan personally and not from the funds of the IMA. The top court is hearing a plea filed in 2022 by the IMA alleging a smear campaign by Patanjali against the COVID-19 vaccination drive and modern systems of medicine. On July 9, Asokan had told the apex court that his unconditional apology to the court was published in various publications. The IMA's counsel had said that Asokan's unconditional apology was published in the association's monthly publication, on the IMA website, as also by PTI. During the hearing on Tuesday, a bench of Justices Hima Kohli and Sandeep Mehta told the IMA's counsel that the apology should have been published in all those newspapers where Asokan's interview was carried. "Was it published in all those newspapers where your interview was published," the bench asked, adding that the IMA president was inviting trouble. Senior advocate P S Patwalia, appearing for the IMA, told the bench that Asokan would take appropriate steps to purge himself of the contempt. The bench has posted the matter for further hearing on August 27. In an interaction with PTI editors on April 29 for its programme '@4 Parliament Street,' Asokan had said it was "unfortunate" that the apex court criticised the association and also some of the practices of private doctors. Asokan was replying to a query about the Supreme Court's observations during a hearing on April 23, when it had said while it was pointing one finger at Patanjali, the remaining four fingers were pointed towards IMA. During the hearing on May 14, the bench had posed some tough questions to Asokan over his "damaging" statements against the court in the interview and said, "You cannot sit on a couch giving an interview to the press and lampooning the court." The court had then made it clear that it will not accept his affidavit tendering apology at that stage. Expressing displeasure over Asokan's comments a day before the top court was slated to the hear the matter, it had sought his response on an application filed by Patanjali Ayurved Ltd, which had urged the court to take judicial notice of the statements made by him. A 30-year-old woman suffered 90 percent burn injuries after allegedly attempting to immolate herself in Lucknow's Vikramaditya Marg area, claiming torture by her husband and in-laws, the police said on Tuesday. IMAGE: Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath listens to the problems of people from different districts during the 'janta darshan' organised at Shri Gorakhnath Mandir, in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, August 5, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav alleged in a post on X that the woman had arrived in Lucknow for Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's "janata darbar" but her failure to be heard forced her to take the step. Deputy commissioner of police (Lucknow Central) Raveena Tyagi said the woman -- Anjali Jatav from Unnao district and the mother of a one-year-old boy -- accused her husband and in-laws of physical and mental harassment. "She attempted to immolate herself by pouring flammable liquid on her near Vikramaditya Marg in the Gautam Palli police station limits," she said. "The police personnel extinguished the flames and admitted her to Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee (Civil) Hospital," Tyagi said and added that she suffered 90 percent burn injuries. Unnao district authorities said in a statement that instructions had been issued to take action in this case, leading to the arrest of Jatav's husband and his brother on charges of harassment. Reacting to the incident, Akhilesh Yadav said in a post in Hindi on X, "For the BJP, the public is just a voter. For the BJP, the end of elections means the end of its concern for the public." He also demanded that the woman receive the best possible treatment. An official who oversees the chief minister's "janata darbar", however, said Jatav did not turn to meet Adityanath on Tuesday. The official told PTI, "She had brought an application regarding physical and mental harassment by her husband and his family members -- mother-in-law (Rajkumari), brother-in-law (Bablu) and sister-in-law (Shalini)." She did not go to the "janata darbar" or the deputy chief minister's office, the official said. "She was outside and this is today's application." Minister of Defense Phan Van Giang (R) holds talks with his Japanese counterpart Kihara Minoru, Ha Noi, August 6, 2024 - Photo: VNA Phan said, the Japanese minister's visit to Viet Nam has deepened the Viet Nam-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia which was established in 2023, including bilateral defense cooperation between the two countries. Both sides have maintained the defense policy dialogue at the deputy ministerial level, and consultations with staff officers of their navy, army and air forces. He suggested the two sides continue to promote defense cooperation, focusing on key areas such as delegation exchange and contact at all levels, especially high levels. Phan underlined the need to effectively maintain annual dialogue and consultation mechanisms while bolstering collaboration in overcoming consequences of war, training, military medicine, search and rescue, and United Nations peacekeeping. Regarding issues at sea, Phan reiterated that Viet Nam consistently advocates the settlement of all disputes by peaceful means on the basis of international law and regional commitments, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and promote negotiations on a practical and effective Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC). Minoru for his part extended his condolences over the recent passing of Vietnamese Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong who had made practical contributions to reinforcing Japan-Viet Nam relations. He expressed his belief that the visit would contribute to further enhancing the comprehensive strategic partnership, including defense cooperation, between the two countries. Following the talks, both ministers exchanged a letter of agreement and the minutes of the mplementation of Japans transfer of two multifunctional rescue equipment vehicles to Viet Nam./. Brattleboro, VT (05301) Today Some sun this morning with increasing clouds this afternoon. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 59F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low near 40F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. An aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 1, 2024 shows the intelligent devices at the "Unmanned Farm" in Changchun's national agricultural high-tech industry demonstration zone in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province. (Xinhua/Li He) CHANGCHUN, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- On a sweltering July afternoon in Changchun, the capital of Jilin Province -- one of China's agricultural heartlands, a quiet revolution was unfolding, reshaping the age-old image of Chinese farmers toiling under the scorching sun. Across the expansive plain, verdant corn fields stretched to the horizon, with tassels signaling the time for field management. Yet, not a single farmer was in sight. Suddenly, a drone with a wingspan exceeding a meter appeared above the cornfield, trailing a fine mist of pesticide as it soared into the distance. The fields were dotted with sophisticated equipment, silently collecting, analyzing, and storing data on soil moisture, pest infestations, crop growth, and potential hazards. This is the "Unmanned Farm" in Changchun's national agricultural high-tech industry demonstration zone. Within this project area, the entire cultivation process -- from plowing and sowing to management and harvesting -- was orchestrated by a fleet of autonomous agricultural machines guided by the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System. "This is the future of agriculture in China, and our goal is to make it a reality for all farms as soon as possible," Yu Rui, a member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) team overseeing the project, said, standing in front of a huge monitoring screen. Jilin, along with Liaoning and Heilongjiang, is known as Dongbei, or the Northeast. This region is China's "eldest son" due to its significant industrial and economic contributions in the early decades following the founding of New China in 1949. Today, the Northeast continues to play a pivotal role in safeguarding national security in terms of defense, food, ecology, energy, and industry. Amid a key national strategy to fully revitalize the Northeast, Jilin has prioritized the development of modern large-scale agriculture, leveraging its vast plain landscape, fertile black soil, and--more importantly--science and technology. At the Unmanned Farm, Yu and his colleagues are testing innovative circular agro-methods to promote resilient and sustainable agricultural systems. These methods, along with others developed by universities and research institutes nationwide, are showcased in a designated 500-mu (approximately 33.3 hectares) area within the demonstration zone. "We regularly invite farmers to visit this 'exhibition hall' for new techniques and superior seeds. They can then decide which seeds and techniques to implement in their farms," explained Cai Hongguang, deputy head of the demonstration zone's management committee. In 2023, the province ranked fourth nationwide in grain production, while maintaining the highest per unit area yield among major grain-producing provinces in China. High above the farmland, "Jilin-1" satellites operated by Chuangchun-based Chang Guang Satellite Technology Co., Ltd. -- China's first commercial remote-sensing satellite firm -- have been collecting crucial data for sectors, such as agriculture, forestry, and environmental monitoring. Currently, 108 "Jilin-1" satellites orbit the Earth. This technological prowess contrasts sharply with the region's image as an old-fashioned heavy-industry base. In the 1950s, several key industries, such as automobile manufacturing and the petrochemical industry, were established in Jilin, one of China's three earliest industrial bases. Among these was the lesser-known optical industry. Changchun is home to the country's first optical research institute: the Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CIOMP) of the CAS, established in 1958. Consequently, China's first optical glass and ruby laser were produced in the city. Today, Changchun's industry of optoelectronics, an emerging field that consists of applying electronic devices to sourcing, detection and control of light, is thriving, with leading manufacturers of remote sensing satellites, optical chips, image sensors and lasers, among other devices. In 2023, the city's optoelectronic information industry achieved a total output value of 75 billion yuan (10.51 billion U.S. dollars), representing a year-on-year growth of 10.6 percent. "Compared to regions like Shanghai, our advantage in the optoelectronic industry lies in the solid technical foundation supported by institutions like the CIOMP and Jilin University," noted Dong Zhe from Guangke Technology, a Changchun-based wireless optical communication product provider. Changchun boasts impressive scientific and technological educational resources, hosting 11 national key laboratories, 41 higher education institutions, and 83 scientific research institutions. Additionally, the city is home to 2,500 national-level high-tech enterprises. As strategic emerging industries flourish in Jilin, traditional manufacturing enterprises are keeping pace through constant upgrades. Jilin Chemical Fiber Group Co Ltd, a state-owned company in Jilin City, was established in 1959 with a simple yet challenging goal: meeting Chinese people's clothing needs. Sixty-five years later, it has evolved from a traditional manufacturer of rayon and acrylic fibers into China's largest carbon fiber producer. Carbon fiber, dubbed the "king of new materials" for its exceptional properties, is widely used in automobile, wind power equipment, and aircraft industries. "It took us over a decade to overcome foreign technological barriers and achieve independent, large-scale carbon fiber production," reflected Zhuang Xiaodong, the company's deputy general manager. "Despite all the hardships, this is a journey that an enterprise like ours must undertake for survival." As China renewed its call for promoting coordinated regional development at a key Party leadership plenum held in July, the full revitalization of the Northeast has been once again highlighted in the country's broader picture of further reform. "The government will continue formulating better policies that foster and improve the innovation ecosystem, attracting more talent and helping boost the local application of innovation," said Yu Baisheng, who oversees Changchun's science and technology bureau. This combo photo taken on Aug. 1, 2024 shows the intelligent devices at the "Unmanned Farm" in Changchun's national agricultural high-tech industry demonstration zone in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province. (Xinhua/Li He) An aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 1, 2024 shows the "Unmanned Farm" in Changchun's national agricultural high-tech industry demonstration zone in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province. (Xinhua/Li He) Editor: JYZ After a nearly 10-month ordeal in the whirlwind of the Russian prison system, Alsu Kurmashevas rediscovery of life as a free woman looks like this: clean drinking water; a comfortable bed; long walks in the Texas countryside, free from prison guard supervision. And avocados. It wasn't avocado I was craving in prison. Of course, it tastes amazing, because we are in Texas, but you know, it was my first clean water in a glass. I've been dreaming of a first glass of water, my first clean long shower in a hotel, my first sleep in a decent bed, Kurmasheva told RFE/RL in an interview on August 5. This morning, I had my first walk by myself without surveillance, without supervision, without anyone taking me anywhere, she said, speaking by video from Texas, where she was recuperating after being released as part of the largest prisoner swap between Russia and the West since the Cold War. Still, her reacquaintance with freedom was a work in progress, said Kurmasheva, a dual Russian-American citizen who works as an editor for RFE/RLs Tatar-Bashkir Service. Actually, I didn't expect this would be so hard. In prison, I felt strong. I thought I was doing OK, but I clearly need some time to cope with everything, what is happening and what has happened, most importantly, she said. Detained by authorities in June 2023 as she was visiting relatives in the central Russian city of Kazan, Kurmasheva was initially charged with not declaring her U.S. passport. She was released but barred from leaving the country. That October, however, she was arrested, jailed, and charged with being an undeclared "foreign agent" -- under a draconian law targeting journalists, civil society activists, and others. She was later hit with an additional charge: distributing what the government claims is false information about the Russian military, a charge stemming from her work editing a book about Russians opposed to the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. RFE/RL, as well as the U.S. government, called the charges absurd. Held in prison, waiting for some indication about what was going to happen, Kurmasheva said it was hard to keep up hope, given the lack of information or news. It was a long winter without any information, with nothing in my [investigation]. A cold winter and spring came and nothing was happening. And then suddenly my trials were rushed, and this was the indication that something might be going on, she said. 'Nobody Will Bring Back That Year For Me' On July 19, after a secret, closed-door trial, Kurmasheva was convicted by a Tatarstan court and sentenced to 6 1/2 years in prison. That same day, another American reporter, Evan Gershkovich of The Wall Street Journal, who had been arrested in Yekaterinburg in March 2023, was convicted of espionage in a similarly rushed, secretive trial. The Wall Street Journal and the U.S. government derided Gershkovichs prosecution as a sham as well. I learned that Evan's trial [took place] on the same day, and somehow I was thinking that that might be a sign. Then it was silence for some time again, and then I was taken from the prison in Kazan to a very difficult, different destination, she said. When they took me, by this prison train, they told me they were taking me in an opposite destination from Moscow. Again, there was hope, but I was ready for anything. Instead, she was indeed taken to Moscow, a destination she didnt learn until the final day of a three-day journey. And there was hope again. And then in Moscow, I was put in prison again, and nobody told me how long I would stay there, she said. I always believed [in an] exchange. I always knew that we were working on that, step by step, small, cautious steps, but that was my only hope. Otherwise, the imprisonment for 6 1/2 years for a journalist, for a woman, is an absurd verdict. My hope helped me get through this, she said. The prisoner exchange that came to fruition on August 1 included 24 people in all -- including Kurmasheva and Gerskovich -- in a complex, seven-nation deal that officials said was the result of months of painstaking negotiations. The other U.S. citizen released was former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan, along with Russian political activist Vladimir Kara-Murza, a dual Russian-British citizen who is also a U.S. legal resident. Also freed from Russian prisons were 10 Russian citizens who were seen widely as political prisoners, as well as a German citizen freed by Belarus. In return, eight people were released from U.S. custody and that of other Western nations. That number included a Russian intelligence agent who was convicted in Germany of gunning down an ex-Chechen military commander in Berlin in 2019, and a husband-and-wife arrested in Slovenia as sleeper agent spies. They were sent back to Moscow, along with two young children who did not know their parents were spies. Kurmasheva said she was still reveling in the elation of reuniting with her two daughters and her husband, Pavel Butorin, who manages RFE/RLs Russian-language TV network, Current Time. Asked about her other emotions, she said: It's definitely not anger I feel right now. I'm not angry. I don't hate anyone. I feel sorry. I feel compassion that people had to do the jobs they did; those judges, investigators, officers, guards, she said. I have to catch up with the world right now. I have to rewatch so many videos my family made for me when I was away. I have to get to know new music, news, stories, books, movies, you name it, everything," she said. "Yes, that time was stolen from me and nobody will bring back that year for me and my family. We will catch up. That made me stronger. That made our family stronger. And yes, no anger for sure. I don't hate anyone. BUCHAREST -- It's been nearly half a century since Romanian communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu decided to build the House of the Republic in the heart of Bucharest. It was to be Europe's largest building at that time. Over 10,000 houses were razed, transforming a project initially conceived by Romanian King Carol II into a North Korean-style megalomaniacal endeavor. Following the devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake on March 4, 1977, that claimed the lives of 1,500 people, Ceausescu decided to transform Bucharest's ruins into a monumental socialist triumph. He believed rebuilding the city with grand architecture would symbolize the victory of socialism. Today, the House of the Republic is known as the Palace of the Parliament. It was finished in 1997 at an estimated cost of $4.3 billion. The Bucharest building is among the heaviest in the world, weighing about 4,098,500 tons. It is also the second-largest administrative building in the world, after the Pentagon. Ceausescu's ambition to cement his place in history through colossal construction projects led to the displacement of more than 50,000 people. Seven years later after the 1977 earthquake, on the same date, the home of Christian Stoica Nicolaescu, great-grandson of Romanian archaeologist Stefan-Stoica Nicolaescu (1878-1941), was demolished. Nicolaescu recalls seeing Ceausescu walking down the street, waving his hand, signaling the imminent demolition of his family home. Throughout the 1980s, entire streets and neighborhoods disappeared under Ceausescu's directive. To maintain control, the secret police were stationed in targeted neighborhoods as demolition plans were circulated covertly. Preserving The Past For The Future Dan Vartanian, a construction engineer of Armenian origin, was in his early 20s when he heard the rumors of Ceausescu's demolition campaign. He also had a camera from then-socialist Germany, a Praktica, which was "pretty much the best camera at the time," as he describes it. Despite the risks of being chased away, imprisoned, or blacklisted, Vartanian photographed the doomed neighborhoods. "I wanted the memory of some places that I was attached to -- to remain for me, to Bucharest itself." He usually found out weeks before the bulldozers were to arrive and began his secret work. "Everything I photographed I processed -- that is, I developed the film and transferred it to paper. I made a laboratory in my kitchen, obviously in the place where I could make it dark very well," Vartanian said. Many years later, Vartanian began posting his images online. "To my surprise, I was very successful," he says. The few who dared to capture the quickly changing landscapes are today holders of priceless historical documents. Their photos allow others to see and reconstruct neighborhoods that were destroyed. The 1989 Revolution The 1989 Romanian Revolution and the subsequent trial and execution of the Ceausescus ended their grand plans. Many detailed maps and records disappeared in the ensuing mayhem. Honoring The Past Despite the large-scale destruction, some small islands of old houses and churches managed to survive. Urban archaeologists like Cristian Lipara-Vararu are dedicated to documenting and sharing the stories of these surviving structures and the vanished neighborhoods. Relying on oral histories, photographs, and the few remaining physical traces, they are reconstructing the past, revealing the disorganized and often brutal nature of the demolitions. "The demolitions were done in great secrecy, hence the 'underhand' documentation. The maps that were used in the construction site, copies of the detailed plans along with the notations of the workers, have disappeared. They would have shown the true picture of the destruction," says Lipara-Vararu. "Now everything that is historically reconstructed is based on the traces or statements of the former inhabitants from family photos," he adds. Alsu Kurmasheva, an RFE/RL journalist and mother of two, was reunited with her family near Washington, D.C., after she was freed in a historic prisoner swap following nine months in Russian detention. She had been sentenced to 6 1/2 years in prison on a charge of spreading falsehoods about the Russian military, a charge rejected by her employer. Joined by her husband, Pavel Butorin, Kurmasheva, 47, spoke with RFE/RL on August 5 from Texas about how she is adjusting to freedom after her release from a Russian prison. BISHKEK -- In the past, Kyrgyz notables would pay tribute to Kyrgyz crime lord Kamchibek Kolbaev's mother -- Maya Alieva -- at lavish birthday bashes. But now the 75-year-old Alieva has lived to see the indignity of a courtroom hearing in her bedroom as the state steps up its bid to recover what it says are her slain sons ill-gotten gains. The sight of Alieva apparently bedbound in her family home as a judge looms over her has been a jarring one for many Kyrgyz. The U.S.-sanctioned Kolbaev -- a reputed trafficker of heroin and racketeer par excellence -- was once one of the Central Asian countrys most powerful men. That continued until he was gunned down on October 4, 2023, in a security operation that apparently even surprised President Sadyr Japarov. I, like you, heard about it first from the Internet, Japarov claimed in his first comments on the killing some two weeks after it took place. The case has been transferred to the Military Prosecutor's Office to conduct an investigation into the operation[and] determine whether it was legal, Japarov said, adding that in developed countries, there is no such thing as a criminal world. No Quarter Given There might have been more than one reason for Japarovs rather ambiguous reaction to this very important event. Firstly, as indicated by the large turnout for Kolbaevs funeral -- in Japarovs home region of Issyk-Kul, no less -- Kolbaev had a lot of supporters. Secondly, whether right or wrong, Japarov was widely believed by many politicians and public figures as having risen to power in 2020 with support from Kolbaevs group. Dancing on the grave of a former ally is hardly a good look, whoever he is. Finally, Japarov may actually not have ordered the operation, since it is his very powerful national security chief, Kamchybek Tashiev, who has taken the lead in fighting organized crime. Tashiev has also been explaining to Kyrgyz since last year why the trial of the septuagenarian Alieva had to go ahead. A number of cars are registered not to [Kolbaev] himself but to members of his criminal group, in his relatives names, in his mother's name. Why would Kolbaev's mother need five or six armored cars? Tashiev asked at a press conference in November, promising a trial "soon." That time has arrived. A July 22 photo of Alieva in her bed under the watch of Judge Tilektesh Begaliev was taken by Alieva's lawyer, Baktybek Zhumashev, and is quite powerful. She now faces charges of laundering more than a dozen assets registered in her name, with prosecutors last week demanding a 10-year sentence in addition to a confiscation of property. She can barely walk. The most she can do is a 10-centimeter step," complained Zhumashev, who has appealed to the court to carry out psychological and medical tests to determine her fitness to stand trial. "I seriously doubt that she understands everything. During the hearing, she did not understand what was being discussed. She could not even answer questions about where she lives and where she was born; her children answered for her, Zhumashev said. Zhumashev and the Kolbaev family also cite medical records stating that Alieva had suffered a stroke in 2014. The prosecutor in her case, Kunduz Akunova, is dismissive of those arguments. Since then, she has been participating in plenty of celebrations," said Akunova. "She was of sound mind then. Are we to consider that suddenly, overnight, she became incompetent? The State Taketh Away The most famous of those celebrations was Alievas 70th birthday party in 2018. Footage showed several Kyrgyz notables at the event, including the current head of Kyrgyzstans cabinet, Akylbek Japarov, a lawmaker at the time. When the video surfaced online last year, Tashiev suggested that Akylbek Japarov -- no relation to the president -- would not be punished for that transgression. But the national security boss has also made it clear that the days of politicians hobnobbing with gangsters and their families are over. After Kolbaev was gunned down in broad daylight at a gastro pub in Bishkek last fall by state security officers, dozens of known associates of the Thieves-in-Law criminal group, as well as other gang members, appeared in videos renouncing their ties to the criminal world. At the end of last month, Customs Service head Samat Isabekov announced that 14 employees of the service had been fired over their alleged ties to Kolbaev since his killing. Among them is Bakyt Asanbek, Kolbaevs brother, who was dismissed from the service last year. Isabekov said a further 62 customs officials were fired for their purported links with Raimbek Matraimov, a former senior employee of the Customs Service believed to have worked in tandem with Kolbaev. Matraimov was extradited from Azerbaijan and jailed last year on charges related to money-laundering and corruption. With these bold moves, Kyrgyzstans authorities can now justifiably claim to have asserted government control in places where it hadnt existed for a very long time. But although businesses have been relieved of pressure from the underworld, the threat of shakedowns from the state appears to be growing. The latest in a lengthening line of victims in this regard is the family of the late Chynybay Tursunbekov, a magnate and former parliamentary speaker who died during the coronavirus pandemic. In his absence, Tursunbekovs business empire has come under a multipronged assault and two of the late politicians daughters were detained over charges of illegal privatization, some of which happened more than 15 years ago. Both daughters are now under house arrest after one, Aidai Tursunbekova, spent more than a week in jail last month. The assets under investigation include a flour mill, a bank, a resort on Lake Issyk Kul, and land where a vodka distillery was built. In comments to the press after news of Tursunbekovas incarceration broke, Tashiev denied reports that there had been an offer from his side to settle the matter for a multimillion-dollar payment. Im not putting any of this into my pocket but returning it to the state, the national security chief insisted on July 22. On the same 1.5 hectares of land [where the vodka distillery stood], there will be apartment buildings eligible for state mortgages. The bank will be sold and the proceeds used to build these buildings, he pledged. Israel has claimed that the successor to slain Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has likely been "eliminated," while U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris called Tehran the greatest adversary of the United States. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on October 8 said that Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militant group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon, was an "organization without a head." "Nasrallah was eliminated -- his replacement was probably also eliminated," Gallant told officers at the military's northern command center without providing details. "There's no one to make decisions, no one to act," he added. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later echoed those comments, saying, "We've degraded Hezbollah's capabilities." "We took out thousands of terrorists, including Nasrallah himself and Nasrallah's replacement, and the replacement of the replacement," Netanyahu said. Hezbollah is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, while the European Union blacklists its armed wing but not its political party. Hezbollahs political party has seats in the Lebanese parliament. Hashem Safieddine, a top Hezbollah official and a cousin of Nasrallah, was widely expected to be named to the group's top position, but his whereabouts and condition are a mystery since an Israeli strike hit a suspected Hezbollah leadership meeting on October 2. Hezbollah has not commented on Safieddine's fate, although unidentified members have told various media that the group had lost contact with him since the attack. Safieddine has been declared a global terrorist by the United States. Meanwhile, Harris told CBS TV's 60 Minutes program in an interview that she considered Iran to be the greatest adversary of the United States. "Iran has American blood on their hands," she said. "And what we saw in terms of just this attack on Israel, 200 ballistic missiles, what we need to do to ensure that Iran never achieves the ability to be a nuclear power -- that is one of my highest priorities." Harris -- the Democratic presidential nominee who will face Republican Donald Trump in the November 5 election -- declined to speculate on whether the United States would take military action itself should proof be uncovered that Iran is building a nuclear weapon. Tehran has denied it is building such weapons and says its nuclear program is for civilian purposes. The comments came as the battered and bloodied leadership of Hezbollah suggested it might be ready to negotiate a cease-fire with Israel Deputy leader Naim Qassem, in a televised speech, for the first time did not suggest that ending the war in Gaza was a precondition to reaching a truce with Israel in Lebanon. Qassem said the group backed an effort by Lebanese parliament speaker Nabih Berri, an ally of Hezbollah, to reach a deal to halt the fighting. Late on October 8, the Syrian government said that seven civilians were killed in an Israeli air strike in Damascus. A war monitor said the strike targeted a building used by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and Hezbollah. Israel did not immediately comment and the reports could not be verified. The Israeli military said earlier on October 8 that it had killed another senior Hezbollah commander, a day after marking the somber anniversary of a Hamas attack on Israel that killed some 1,200 people. Suhail Husseini, who was responsible for overseeing the logistics, budget, and management of Hezbollah, was killed in a targeted attack on October 7, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement. "Husseini played a crucial role in weapon transfers between Iran and Hezbollah," the statement said, adding that he was also in charge of distributing advanced weapons to the group's members and for its "most sensitive projects" that included operations against Israel. The IDF said Husseini was also a member of the Jihad Council, the supreme military body of Hezbollah. There was no immediate confirmation from Hezbollah. The Israeli announcement came after Palestinian militants in Gaza fired a barrage of rockets on October 7 into Israel, where President Isaac Herzog led a national moment of silence to mark the start of last year's Hamas attack, which started at Kibbutz Reim in the south of the country. Hamas has been designated a terrorist organization by both the United States and the European Union. In Washington on October 7, President Joe Biden condemned Hamas on the anniversary, while also stating again the U.S. administration's commitment to reaching cease-fire agreements to end fighting in both Gaza and Lebanon. "On this solemn anniversary, let us bear witness to the unspeakable brutality of the October 7 attacks but also to the beauty of the lives that were stolen that day," Biden said in a statement. In Jerusalem, relatives of the some 100 hostages still in Hamas captivity, out of a total of 250, gathered outside Netanyahu's residence and stood in silence as a siren wailed in a gesture of protest against what relatives say is the failure of the government to secure their loved ones' release. The conflict in Gaza is still raging while Israel is now fighting on a second front in southern Lebanon against Hezbollah. Following the October 7 attack, Israel launched a military assault on Gaza that has killed nearly 42,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry, which is run by Hamas. Some 90 percent of the population of Gaza has been displaced and large areas have been destroyed by Israeli bombardments. The Israeli military said on October 7 that over the past year it has bombed more than 40,000 targets in Gaza, found 4,700 tunnel shafts and destroyed 1,000 rocket launcher sites. Israel in recent weeks has been carrying out air strikes across Lebanon, including Beirut, and has staged a ground invasion into south Lebanon in its drive to wipe out Hezbollah's capabilities and leadership. In the attacks, Israel killed Hezbollah leader Nasrallah and dozens of other leaders of the group. On October 6, two senior Iranian security officials told Reuters that Ismail Qaani, commander of the Quds Force -- the overseas arm of the IRGC -- had also not been heard from in recent days since traveling to Lebanon. Tel Avivs campaign against Hezbollah prompted Iran to respond by attacking Israel with a large wave of rockets that were largely shot down by Israeli air defenses without causing substantial damage, but the attack renewed fears of a larger regional conflict. Gallant on October 6 threatened Iran that it might eventually find itself looking like Beirut or Gaza -- which has also been battered over the past year -- if Tehran attempts to further harm Israel. With reporting by CBS and AP Ordinary Turkmen often have to pay bribes to get a job, to secure a place at a university, and even to get a vacation at the time of their choosing or renew a passport. Many say it is almost impossible for people to get through their everyday lives without paying a bribe somewhere, as officials increasingly exploit their positions to extort money. In a recent example, a group of schoolteachers in the northeastern Lebap region complain that officials have given them an unworkable timetable for medical checkups, just to force them to pay bribes. The teachers claim they were given just one day to undergo extensive medical examinations -- including X-rays and blood tests -- as a precondition to return to work after summer holidays. There are more than 40 schools in our city that employ dozens of teachers. Medical facilities dont have a capacity to test of all these people just in one day, one of the teachers from the provincial capital Turkmenabat told RFE/RL on condition of anonymity. Some teachers say they had to pay money to doctors to obtain a health certificate without undergoing the tests, or bribe school principals to allow them more time. I went to the internal medicine clinic at 8 a.m. for the test and there was already a long line, a teacher from Lebaps Danew district said. Then I had to stand in another long line for an X-ray, and the day was gone. The teacher claimed he had to pay the equivalent of $7 in bribes to the school director to give him an extra day to complete the tests. Then he bribed doctors at two medical facilities -- about $30 each -- to jump the queue. Teachers in Turkmenistan make around $200 to $400 a month. A young teacher from Turkmenabat who graduated from university this summer said he paid $120 in bribes to a clinic to complete his medical tests. Since I have just been hired, I had to undergo a series of additional examinations, and I was given only three days for all of that, the teacher told RFE/RL. Obviously, the only reason behind these checks is to extort bribes from people. RFE/RL contacted authorities in Lebap for comment but did not receive a response. Officials in the authoritarian Central Asian country never speak to independent media. In Every Aspect Of Life Turkmenistan has been repeatedly ranked among the 10 most corrupt countries in the world by Transparency International, an independent group that monitors corruption worldwide. Turkmen say bribery exists in all aspects of their lives. During military call-up seasons, officials round up conscript-age men from the streets and even schools to send them to the army. Some parents reported in recent years that they paid about $5,700 for a postponement of military service for their child. To secure a place in universities in Turkmenistan, parents pay thousands of dollars in bribes regardless of their child's test results. Bribery even allows wealthy prospective parents to jump the line to adopt a child. One couple in the eastern city of Farap reportedly paid about $14,300 to adopt a baby within four months, while those who cant afford to pay such a fee often have to wait several years. Meanwhile, some Turkmen doctors reportedly carry out abortions in return for bribes, despite a ban on abortions after five weeks of pregnancy in most cases. A few months after the ban was enforced in 2022, several medical sources in Mary Province told RFE/RL that the amount of the bribe for an abortion ranged between $100 and $500, depending on how advanced the pregnancy is. At a womens health center in Lebap Province, one source said patients pay up to $340 in bribes for an abortion in the later stages of pregnancy. Turkmen also pay bribes to ensure migration officials at airports dont remove them from international flights. Airport migration officials routinely bar people from leaving the country even if they have valid visas and tickets. The random practice has led to widespread corruption, with some people allegedly paying up to $5,000 to be able to leave Turkmenistan. Sources at Ashgabat International Airport recently told RFE/RL that officers are removing up to 20 to 30 people -- mostly students studying abroad -- from outbound flights without giving any valid reason. To get a passport or to renew an expiring travel document, several Turkmenabat residents have reportedly paid some $200 in bribes to passport officials to avoid waiting for several months. Bribing The Morality Police Young Turkmen accuse some law enforcement officers of targeting couples sitting close, kissing, or hugging in public places to solicit bribes. Acting like morality police, the officers often detain such couples, accusing them of violating social norms, according to several eyewitnesses and those involved in such incidents. They threaten the offenders with arrest and fines, but often release them after getting paid on the spot. A young man from Turkmenabat claimed he and his girlfriend were stopped by a police patrol while holding hands at the citys National Flag Square in April. The man said the officers scolded the couple for shameful behavior that is unbecoming for Turkmen, especially under the national flag, and tried to force them into a police vehicle. The officers threatened to open a criminal case against me on a charge of resisting a police officer, the man told RFE/RL. Then one of the policemen took me to one side and demanded [the equivalent of] $30. I told him that I only have $10 with me. He took the money and let us go. Written by Farangis Najibullah in Prague with reporting by RFE/RLs Turkmen Service Humanitarian aid supplies to Gaza provided by the Chinese government wait for loading in Cairo, Egypt, Nov. 27, 2023. (Xinhua/Sui Xiankai) "China has consistently called for a cease-fire, and this is very important. China has also supported the agency, has made a note of the fact that there has been misinformation and disinformation against the agency, which we really appreciate, because the agency has been called out and attacked for quite some time." RAMALLAH, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- China has played a "very important role" in peace efforts and the delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of the Gaza Strip, a United Nations (UN) official has said. "I would like to thank China for its strong support to UNRWA and to the humanitarian sector in the Middle East," said Antonia Marie De Meo, deputy commissioner-general for Operational Support of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), during a recent interview with Xinhua in Ramallah. Last week, China donated 3 million U.S. dollars to UNRWA to support its emergency humanitarian efforts in Gaza. De Meo said China's new donation will provide financial support to UNRWA, and it will go to the people of Gaza. "It will go to the staff and to the healthcare sector in order to be able to provide lifesaving medicines and assistance to the people of Gaza. So the financial support from China is very important," she said. With the outbreak of the war in Gaza last October, some 154 UNRWA facilities including schools, training centers, warehouses and health centers were transformed into emergency shelters for displaced people, UNRWA said in a press release in August. Thousands of UNRWA staff, who themselves have been displaced multiple times, and over 200 of whom have been killed, continue to deliver critical services at the agency's health centers that remain operational, it added. Apart from financial support, De Meo added, political support from China is also very important. "China has consistently called for a cease-fire, and this is very important. China has also supported the agency, has made a note of the fact that there has been misinformation and disinformation against the agency, which we really appreciate, because the agency has been called out and attacked for quite some time," she said. In late July, Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the UN, said in remarks at a UN Security Council briefing on the situation in the Middle East that UNRWA is the mainstay of humanitarian assistance in Gaza. China is firmly opposed to attempts to attack and discredit UNRWA and hamper the work of UNRWA's mandate implementation, he said. During the interview, De Meo told Xinhua that she would like to commend China for the role it has played in the Beijing Declaration and being able to bring Palestinian factions together to discuss a potential cease-fire. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, attends the closing ceremony of a reconciliation dialogue among Palestinian factions and witnesses the signing of a declaration on ending division and strengthening unity by 14 Palestinian factions, in Beijing, capital of China, July 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan) At the invitation of the Chinese side, high-level representatives of 14 Palestinian factions held a reconciliation dialogue in Beijing from July 21 to 23 and inked the Beijing Declaration on Ending Division and Strengthening Palestinian National Unity, which many consider would create precious hope for peace and stability in the Middle East. "This part of China's political leadership role in calling for a cease-fire and actually making that a reality by hosting the Beijing Declaration" is important, De Meo said. Editor: GSY The quest for the 77th Miss Ireland has started, and the search has officially begun for Miss Roscommon to follow in the footsteps of current Miss Roscommon Eimear Noone. The twenty year old from Fourmilehouse is studying for post primary teaching, and during her time as Miss Roscommon, Eimear raised funds for the Childrens Health Foundation. Eimear also helped to raise funds for Miss Irelands partner charity the Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis foundation. She is delighted to help the charity in reaching its goal and informing people about its incredible Wellness Respite Retreat. The search is now on to find contestants from each county to take part in the Miss Ireland 2024/2025 competition. The winner from each county will represent their county and title at various events, awards and appearances and also take part in a spectacular show on March 29th 2025 to crown the new Miss Ireland and Mr Ireland. Full details on how to enter are available on www.miss-ireland.ie or on the Miss Ireland App now available from Apple App Store, Google Play, @missirelandorg, and @mrirelandorg on Instagram and Facebook. Applications close on August 31st 2024. The search for Miss Ireland promises to be a fascinating journey because this year, organisers are also delving into the past of the historic competition. We are thrilled to announce that we are delving into the captivating history of Miss Ireland. From the inaugural year of the competition in 1947 to the present day, we are seeking photographs that will unravel the timeless elegance and legacy of Miss Ireland and those crowned for each county in Ireland through the years, said Brendan Marc Scully, Director of Miss Ireland. We would especially love to find and celebrate all those who we dont have records for going back to the fifties, sixties, seventies, eighties and nineties. If you or someone you know were crowned Miss Ireland or won a county title over the years, please contact events@miss-ireland.ie. The finalists of Miss Ireland this year will be put through their paces in a challenging competitive process, testing their skills in debating, public speaking, talent, sports, modelling, and social media. Each finalist will also be tasked with raising much-needed awareness and funds for their chosen charities. Miss Ireland Jasmine Gerhardt pictured as she was crowned Miss Ireland. Pic. Brian McEvoy Established in 1947, Miss Ireland has been the launch pad for many eminent, successful, and inspiring women in Ireland. In recent years the Miss Ireland Franchise has raised over 350,000 for various charities including Laura Lynn, Temple Street, Alzheimers Ireland, Pieta House, The Cari Foundation and this year are proud to partner with The Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The winner of Miss Ireland and Mr Ireland will receive a lucrative agency contract and a host of prizes and then both will jet off to represent their country at their respective Mr World and Miss World Festivals which is televised in over 100 countries around the world. See www.miss-ireland.ie for more information. Who will rule Bangladesh now? Know The Key Developments Sheikh Hasina recently fled to India on a military aircraft. Who will rule Bangladesh now? Bangladesh is currently on the edge as it awaits the formation of a new government after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country following violent protests. Notably, the student protest leaders are set to meet the Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman on Tuesday. They have also called for Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to lead the interim government. In the meanwhile, the curfew was lifted, and offices and educational institutions were reopened on Tuesday morning. However, the attendance was scattered after weeks of protests against government job quotas and ensuing violence claiming 300 lives and leaving thousands injured. Advertisement Sheikh Hasina recently fled to India on a military aircraft. As of now, it is being reported that she is seeking asylum in the United Kingdom. However, her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, turned down these reports stating that she has no plans to return to Bangladesh either. Who will rule Bangladesh now? Here are the key developments: Sheikh Hasina departed Bangladesh via helicopter, landing at Hindon Airbase on the outskirts of Delhi on Monday. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and senior officials met Sheikh Hasina upon her arrival. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced that all government and private offices, factories, and educational institutions would reopen on Tuesday. Bangladesh's army chief is set to meet student protest leaders on Tuesday as the country prepares for the formation of a new government. Bangladeshs President Mohammed Shahabuddin ordered the release of jailed former Prime Minister and key opposition leader Khaleda Zia hours after archrival Sheikh Hasinas ouster. The Romanian Designer Floor Alina Gavrila started making clothes when she was just a teenager. RRI 960x540 alb 3 Ana-Maria Cononovici, 06.08.2024, 14:00 Alina Gavrila started making clothes when she was just a teenager. The passion developed over time, and today the fashion designer aims to support Romanian designers in the making, through what she created: the floor of Romanian designers, an actual floor, at an address in Bucharest, as well as online. Alina Gavrila, the founder of the Romanian Designer Floor concept told us: It wasnt necessarily a need, but a passion, my passion from adolescence, for clothing creation. I started designing clothes when I was 14-15 years old. Basically, I followed my passion, my hobby from adolescence. The idea came to fruition at the beginning of the 90s, when I established a small clothing creation and production workshop. Then I made my own creations and sold them in partner stores. Unfortunately, my dream didnt necessarily materialize for a very long time. After three years, I had to close that business for financial reasons, but because my entrepreneurial spirit and my passion for fashion remained alive, after many years I returned to the business world and opened a store, which brings many creations from several Romanian designers, that is, I preferred to promote, to support Romanian fashion creators. What the Romanian Designer Floor actually is we learned from Alina Gavrila, the founder of the concept: The Romanian Designer Floor is an oasis of beauty, style, elegance, it is the place where women find not only suitable outfits for occasions, for events, but also advice if they want a change of clothes, or dont know what suits them in certain situations, or at certain events. It is more than a store, it is a place where you charge yourself with positive energy, and leave not only with a dress or an outfit, but also with a feeling of well-being, with confidence, with a positive attitude. Beyond the rich offer of shops and malls, The Romanian Designer Floor aims to offer experiences, says Alina Gavrila: I have a physical store, which is located in Bucharest, near the roundabout in Piata Romana, the exact address is Dacia 39, first floor. We also have an online store, its also called etajuldesignilorromani.com and, in general, people who want to visit us, call us, write us a message, because the meetings are made by appointment. Coats, dresses, shirts, as well as shoes and other accessories can be found on the website and even ordered, with delivery taking 5-15 days. However, we found the most challenging thing to be able to call a stylist to change your clothing style. We asked our interlocutor how a style change can be made: The style change session takes place in the store, and then the customers receive all the necessary information. Depending on the body shape, style preferences, they receive all the necessary information to have a perfect outfit to best suit their style and body type. Alina Gavrila chose not to make a list of the designers exhibiting their creations on the Romanian Designer Floor, for fear of forgetting someone, but she assured us: They are very talented designers, many of them are perhaps just starting out, or trying to make a name for themselves on the market, they are not necessarily very, very well-known designers, because those dont need promotion. Every month we organize meetings, we call them Rendez-vous for Coquettish Women, precisely to support women in choosing a suitable style. We give advice on how to match the outfit with the shoes, with the accessories, what colors to choose. These meetings are monthly or bi-monthly, and can be seen on our Facebook page, where these events are created. Within these events, ladies can visit us and meet other women, they can socialize, they can feel good, may have a pleasant afternoon in our company. Shop with clothing creations, shoes, bags and jewelry from talented Romanian designers! is the promotion on the Facebook page for Romanian Designer Floor, a page where we also find stories of miraculous encounters between clients and clothing creations. We know that there were ladies who sometimes fall in love with a dress at first sight, lets say. Another asset we noticed in the way the clothes are presented is the fact that they are aimed at everyone, not just the female runway model as a structure, which is very important! Romania energy prospects Romania and Serbia signed a memorandum for the construction of a gas interconnector between the two neighboring states Sebastian Burduja si Dubravka edovic Handanovic (sursa foto facebook Ministerul Energiei) Leyla Cheamil, 06.08.2024, 14:00 Romania and Serbia have signed a memorandum for the construction of a gas interconnector between the two neighboring states. The document was signed, on Monday, at Iron Gates I, by the Romanian Minister of Energy Sebastian Burduja and the Serbian Minister of Energy and Mines, Dubravka Dedovici Handadovici. According to them, the two countries will make every effort to start the actual construction next year. The investment would be completed by 2028, this project representing a major step in strengthening the energy security of both countries and in the regional integration of markets, by diversifying supply routes. The Romanian official stated that, through this investment, Romania will obtain benefits for all Romanians: a more competitive market, which will bring the lowest price to consumers, energy security, less islandization of energy systems and the diversification of supply sources. The project will connect the natural gas transmission system in Serbia with the BRUA pipeline in Romania. Minister Sebastian Burduja: We marked the signing of this memorandum aimed at starting this gas interconnector, we call it Arad-Mokrin. It means somewhere around 85 kilometers, and the estimated costs stand at some 80 million euros. Why is the connector important? On the one hand, for the energy security of the region, of Romania and Serbia, the more routes you have, the higher level of security you have in supply and, on the other hand, to have a price as low as possible, a fair price for the final consumer. Sebastian Burduja also added that Romania positions itself as a regional leader in the energy sector and a provider of geopolitical stability. These combined elements, as well as the investment itself in infrastructure, generate confidence and economic growth, jobs and the development of the entire region, said the Romanian Minister of Energy. He specified that Romania asserts its status as a leader in the energy sector at the regional level by making the resources and specialists at its disposal available to neighboring countries. In this context, Burduja stressed that, in the first quarter of this year, Romania provided almost 30% of the gas production of the entire European Union. The national company Romgaz still has big plans: Neptun Deep, the four billion euro investment in the Black Sea, will double the Romanian gas production as of 2027, said Sebastian Burduja. At the same time, Romania is looking for technical arguments to postpone the deadline agreed with the European executive for closing coal-based energy production capacities. Minister Sebastian Burduja explained that more time is needed to switch to gas energy sources, given that 15% of the countrys energy production still depends on coal. (MI) A new study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, revealed that the impact of losing a loved one could accelerate the aging process at a biological level. "The connection between losing loved ones and problems throughout life is well-established," said lead author Allison Aiello, a professor of epidemiology at Columbia University in New York. "But some stages of life might be more vulnerable to the health risks associated with loss and the accumulation of loss appears to be a significant factor." Biological aging is defined as when gradually damage accumulates to various cells and tissues in the person's body, leading to an early on-set of age-related health problems. For the study, researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health and the Butler Columbia Aging Center used data of 3,969 participants from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health dating 1994-95. The study found that around 40 percent of the total participants had experienced a loss of a loved one between the age of 33 to 43. "People who experienced two or more losses had older biological ages according to several epigenetic clocks. Experiencing two or more losses in adulthood was more strongly linked to biological aging than one loss and significantly more so than no losses," the researchers stated. The research also found that a large proportion of Black and Hispanic participants experienced the loss of at least one loved one compared to White participants. "We still don't fully understand how loss leads to poor health and higher mortality, but biological aging may be one mechanism as suggested in our study," Aiello noted. "Future research should focus on finding ways to reduce disproportionate losses among vulnerable groups. For those who experience loss, providing resources for coping and addressing the trauma is essential." For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Factory orders and construction Purchasing Managers' survey results from Germany and retail sales from the euro area are the top economic news due on Tuesday. At 2.00 am ET, Destatis is scheduled to issue Germany's factory orders data for June. Economists forecast orders to grow 0.7 percent on month, in contrast to the 1.6 percent decline in May. Half an hour later, retail sales data is due from Switzerland. Economists forecast sales to grow 0.5 percent annually in June after a 0.4 percent gain in May. At 3.00 am ET, the Czech Statistical Office publishes industrial production and foreign trade data for June. At 3.30 am ET, S&P Global publishes Germany's HCOB construction PMI data for July. At 4.30 am ET, the UK construction PMI data is due. The construction index is expected to rise to 52.7 in July from 52.2 in June. At 5.00 am ET, Eurostat publishes euro area retail sales figures for June. Sales are forecast to drop 0.1 percent on month, offsetting the 0.1 percent rise in May. Don't get caught off guard. Track key Economic Events with RTTNews Economic Trading Calendar. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Oil prices were mixed on Tuesday, giving up early gains due to macro recessionary fears. Benchmark Brent crude futures were marginally lower at $76.27 a barrel in European trade, while WTI crude futures were up 0.2 percent at $73.06. WTI futures fell more than 6 percent over the previous three sessions amid fears the U.S. could slip into a recession. Earlier, oil prices advanced more than 1 percent in Asian trade on fears that a spreading Middle East conflict could hit supplies. Israel and the U.S. are bracing for significant escalation after Iran and its regional allies vowed retaliation for the deaths of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. G7 Foreign Ministers have expressed deep concern at the heightened level of tension in the Middle East which threatens to ignite a broader conflict in the region. Several countries have urged their citizens to leave Lebanon. The U.S. Embassy in Beirut has raised its Travel Advisory to Level 4, 'Do Not Travel,' due to rising tensions between Hizballah and Israel. Traders were also reacting to news of the supply loss due to the halting of production from Libya's biggest field. Output from Libya's Sharara field stopped completely, as dueling administrations battle for control over the North African nation. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Market Analysis As tensions mount in the Middle East following high-profile assassinations blamed on Israel and the threat of retaliation, the United States is sending a war ship, guided-missile destroyers and aircraft to protect its forces and defend Israel against potential attacks. The Defense Department continues to move vessels and aircraft across the Middle East to improve U.S. force protection, increase the defense of Israel, and ensure the United States can respond to a range of contingencies, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh said at a press briefing. She told reporters that Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant to reiterate that the U.S. has ironclad support for Israel's security and right to self-defense against threats from Iran, Lebanese Hezbollah, Houthis and other Iranian-backed terrorist groups. "They discussed U.S. force posture moves that the department is taking for defense and deterrence and reinforced the need to de-escalate broader tensions in the region, to include strong support for a Gaza cease-fire and hostage-release deal." Austin ordered additional ballistic missile defense-capable cruisers and destroyers to the U.S. European Command and Centcom regions. He also ordered deployment of an additional fighter squadron to the Middle East to bolster defensive air support capability. The USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group will replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group, which is currently anchored in the U.S. Central Command region. "These posture adjustments add to the broad range of capabilities the U.S. military maintains in the region, including the USS Wasp amphibious ready group/Marine expeditionary unit operating in the eastern Mediterranean," the Defense Department stated. Threats of retaliation from Iran for the killing of key leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah, and escalation of Hezbollah-Israel hostilities around Israeli-Lebanese border are feared to worsen to another full-fledged war in the region. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights called for an urgent de-escalation in the Middle East. "I am deeply worried about the rising risk of a wider conflict in the Middle East and plead with all parties, along with those States with influence, to act urgently to de-escalate what has become a very precarious situation," Volker Turk said in a statement on Monday. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News The United States has ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and family members in riot-hit Bangladesh to leave the country. On Monday, the U.S. State Department upgraded its travel advisory to the highest 'Level 4: Do Not Travel' category, in the wake of the ongoing civil unrest in capital Dhaka. Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport suspended operations on Monday. The Travel Advisory advises travelers to check with their airlines to confirm the status for future flights. Due to security concerns U.S. Embassy personnel in Bangladesh are subject to some movement and travel restrictions. The U.S. government may have limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Bangladesh due to these travel restrictions, a lack of infrastructure, and limited host government emergency response resources," the State Department said. Top United Nations officials underscored the need for a peaceful and democratic transition in Bangladesh after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday in the face of massive anti-Government protests, which claimed the lives of hundreds of demonstrators in recent weeks. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres continues to closely follow developments in the country, UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq said in a statement. The UN chief demanded a full, independent, impartial and transparent investigation into all acts of violence. More than 300 people were killed since student-led protests erupted in July. The bloodshed was among the worst ever witnessed in Bangladesh. Under pressure amid rising student protests, Sheikh Hasina has resigned and fled the country. She arrived in India on Monday evening. India's External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday told an all-party meeting that Shaik Hasina is in a state of shock, and the Indian government has given her time to decide the future course of action. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News The UN stated that nine staff working for its Palestine refugee agency UNRWA will be sacked because of their suspected involvement in the October 7 deadly Hamas-led attacks against Israel. The UN takes disciplinary action on the basis of an investigation by the UN Office of Oversight Services, launched earlier this year after Israel alleged that several UNRWA personnel took part in the brutal assault on its territory in which more than 1,200 people were killed and another 250 were taken to Gaza as hostages. OIOS is the highest investigative body in the UN system and its reports are confidential but can be made available to Member States upon request. Investigators made findings in relation to 19 UNRWA staff alleged to have been involved in the attacks, UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq said at a news conference. "In one case, no evidence was obtained by OIOS to support the allegations of the staff member's involvement, while in nine other cases, the evidence obtained by OIOS?was insufficient to support?the staff members' involvement," he said. Regarding these 10 cases, appropriate measures will be taken in due course, in conformity with UNRWA Regulations and Rules, he told reporters in New York. On the remaining nine cases, the evidence obtained by OIOS indicated that the UNRWA staff members may have been involved in the October 7 cross-border attacks. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini issued a statement acknowledging the completion of the probe. "I have decided that in the case of these remaining nine staff members, they cannot work for UNRWA. All contracts of these staff members will be terminated in the interest of the Agency," he said. The accusations surfaced in January when Israel informed UNRWA of the alleged involvement of 12 staff members in the attacks. UNRWA immediately identified and terminated 10, while two were confirmed dead. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News The Department of Defense announced that it has awarded $11.8 million to Lithium Nevada Corporation to accelerate the extraction and processing of lithium carbonate. The award, via the Defense Production Act Investment (DPAI) office, supports the 2024 National Defense Industrial Strategy's objective to expand domestic production of critical minerals. "It is critical that we shore up reliable and sustainable domestic supplies of strategic materials, like lithium carbonate, that are necessary for the production of large-capacity batteries," said Dr. Laura Taylor-Kale, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy. "This award helps do just that, facilitating the acceleration and expansion of Lithium Nevada's existing capabilities to meet growing demand." The award will enable Lithium Nevada to upgrade infrastructure at Thacker Pass, the company's lithium mine located in McDermitt Caldera, Humboldt County, Nevada. Lithium Nevada, a subsidiary of Lithium Americas Corp., will test, demonstrate, accelerate, and scale up its lithium carbonate extraction process and produce commercial-scale levels of battery-grade lithium carbonate. The Pentagon said in a press release that the award will help to meet the United States' growing requirements for large-capacity lithium batteries, which are critical components in many DoD systems. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News China will on Wednesday release July data for imports, exports and trade balance, highlighting a modest day for Asia-Pacific economic activity. Imports are expected to rise 3.5 percent on year after shrinking 2.3 percent in June. Exports are called higher by an annual 9.7 percent, up from 8.6 percent in the previous month. The trade surplus is pegged at $97.50 billion, easing from $99.05 billion a month earlier. New Zealand will provide unemployment data for the second quarter of 2024. The jobless rate is expected to climb to 4.7 percent from 4.3 percent in the previous three months, with an employment change of -0.2 percent for the second straight quarter. The participation rate is expected to ease to 71.3 percent from 71.5 percent previously. South Korea will see current account data for June; in May, the current account surplus was $8.92 billion. Japan will see June results for its leading and coincident indexes; in May, they were up 0.3 percent on month and 1/9 percent on month, respectively. Thailand is scheduled to release July data for consumer prices, with forecasts suggesting an annual increase of 0.7 percent overall and 0.39 percent for core CPI. They were at 0.62 percent and 0.36 percent, respectively, in June. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Economic News What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more. Oil futures settled modestly higher on Tuesday, snapping a four-session losing streak, as investors closely followed the developments on the geopolitical front and awaited weekly oil reports. The shutdown of Libya's 270,000 barrel per day Sharara oil field offered some support to oil prices, while worries about economic slowdown and outlook for demand from China weighed on oil prices. Output from Libya's Sharara field stopped completely, as dueling administrations battle for control over the North African nation. West Texas Intermediate Crude oil futures for September ended up $0.26 or about 0.36% at $73.20 a barrel, coming off a 6-month low. Brent crude futures were up $0.14 or 0.18% at $76.44 a barrel a little while ago. Israel and the U.S. are said to be bracing for significant escalation after Iran and its regional allies vowed retaliation for the deaths of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. G7 Foreign Ministers have expressed deep concern at the heightened level of tension in the Middle East which threatens to ignite a broader conflict in the region. Traders await weekly oil reports from the American Petroleum Institute (API) and U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). The API data is due later today, while the EIA report is due Wednesday morning. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Market Analysis The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has reported the initial instances of West Nile virus (WNV) infections within the state, identified in a healthy blood donor from Washington County whose blood tested positive for the virus, as well as in a deceased bird from Chippewa County that also showed positive results. According to the DHS, the blood donor is not categorized as a human case since they did not exhibit any symptoms associated with West Nile virus, which is a prerequisite for being classified as a probable or confirmed case. Elizabeth Goodsitt, a communications specialist at DHS, noted that West Nile virus activity is currently at its peak in Wisconsin, with August and September typically recording the highest levels of activity. She anticipates that the first human case of West Nile virus disease may emerge in the coming weeks, along with additional infections in animals or mosquitoes. Goodsitt further explained that the majority of individuals who test positive for the virus remain asymptomatic, while approximately 20% report mild symptoms such as fever, rash, muscle aches, joint pain, and nausea. Severe illness, although rare, can occur, presenting symptoms such as high fever, confusion, and disorientation. The transmission of WNV to humans, birds, and other animals occurs through the bite of an infected mosquito, which acquires the virus by feeding on infected birds. It is important to note that the virus is not transmitted directly between humans, animals, or vice versa. To mitigate the risk of mosquito bites, Goodsitt recommends several preventive measures: eliminate mosquito breeding sites, use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 on exposed skin and clothing, treat clothing with permethrin before outdoor activities, wear long sleeves, long pants, and long socks, and consider postponing outdoor events. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Gobekli Tepe, an archaeological site in southern Turkey, features several Neolithic temple-like enclosures adorned with many intricately carved symbols. Gobekli Tepe (Potbelly Hill in Turkish) is among the earliest known examples of man-made megalithic buildings constructed specifically for the ritual requirements of their prehistoric builders. Its impressive monumental architecture was built by groups of hunter-gatherers in the Pre-Pottery Neolithic period, between 9,600 and 8,200 BCE. Gobekli Tepe was discovered towards the end of the last century in the hills overlooking the Harran Plain. It is situated between the upper reaches of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers, around 12 km north-east of the modern city of Sanliurfa, which was ancient Urfa and said to be the birthplace of Biblical Abraham. Excavations at Gobekli Tepe, which began in 1994, revealed four large sub-circular enclosures and many other rectangular buildings which are generally smaller. Each rounded enclosure consists of a rough stone wall embedded with megalithic T-shaped pillars surrounding a pair of taller, centrally located T-shaped pillars which are typically grounded within stone sockets. Although archaeologists originally thought Gobekli Tepe was a cultic center only, more recent excavations indicate that Gobekli Tepe was also a settlement with the rectangular buildings thought now to be houses. While the large enclosures are still considered special buildings, it is debated whether they had a specific cultic purpose or whether they were the larger homes of important families. In the context of this debate, it is argued whether the largest pillars could represent deities or perhaps revered ancestors. In either case, it is generally thought these large enclosures were roofed, although firm evidence is elusive. The largest complete enclosure so far uncovered, Enclosure D (30 m, or 98 feet, across), generated the oldest radiocarbon date yet measured for the site at 9530 BCE, said University of Edinburgh archaeologist Martin Sweatman, author of a paper published in the journal Time and Mind. This date corresponds approximately to the end of the Younger Dryas period at the Epipaleolithic-Neolithic boundary when the northern-hemisphere climate rocketed upwards after more than 1,200 years of near ice-age Younger Dryas climate. However, the earliest occupation date of Gobekli Tepe is unknown, he added. Ground-penetrating radar scans suggest several other large structures situated towards the center of the main tell also exist, waiting to be uncovered. Given that only a small fraction of the sites surface has been excavated, with an even smaller area excavated down to bedrock, it is possible that Gobekli Tepes origin will eventually be found to date closer to the onset of the Younger Dryas around 10,800 BCE. In fact, scientists suggested it could have a Paleolithic origin. In a new analysis of V-shaped symbols carved onto pillars at Gobekli Tepe, Dr. Sweatman found that each V could represent a single day. This interpretation allowed the researcher to count a solar calendar of 365 days on one of the pillars, consisting of 12 lunar months plus 11 extra days. The summer solstice appears as a separate, special day, represented by a V worn around the neck of a bird-like beast thought to represent the summer solstice constellation at the time. Other statues nearby, possibly representing deities, have been found with similar V-markings at their necks. Since both the Moons and the Suns cycles are depicted, the carvings could represent the worlds earliest so-called lunisolar calendar, based on the phases of the Moon and the position of the Sun pre-dating other known calendars of this type by many millennia. Ancient people may have created these carvings at Gobekli Tepe to record the date a swarm of comet fragments hit Earth nearly 13,000 years ago, or 10,850 BCE, the scientist said. The comet strike is suggested to have ushered in a mini ice age lasting over 1,200 years, wiping out many species of large animals. It could also have triggered changes in lifestyle and agriculture thought to be linked to the birth of civilization soon afterwards in the Fertile Crescent of West Asia. Another pillar at the site appears to picture the Taurid meteor stream which is thought to be the source of the comet fragments lasting 27 days and emanating from the directions of Aquarius and Pisces. The find also appears to confirm that ancient people were able to record dates using precession the wobble in Earths axis which affects the movement of constellations across the sky at least 10,000 years before the phenomenon was documented by Hipparchus of Ancient Greece in 150 BCE. The carvings appear to have remained important to the people of Gobekli Tepe for millennia, suggesting the impact event may have triggered a new cult or religion that influenced the development of civilization. The find also supports a theory that Earth faces increased comet strikes as its orbit crosses the path of circling comet fragments, which we normally experience as meteor streams. It appears the inhabitants of Gobekli Tepe were keen observers of the sky, which is to be expected given their world had been devastated by a comet strike, Dr. Sweatman said. This event might have triggered civilization by initiating a new religion and by motivating developments in agriculture to cope with the cold climate. Possibly, their attempts to record what they saw are the first steps towards the development of writing millennia later. _____ Martin B. Sweatman. Representations of calendars and time at Gobekli Tepe and Karahan Tepe support an astronomical interpretation of their symbolism. Time and Mind, published online July 24, 2024; doi: 10.1080/1751696X.2024.2373876 The Pyramid of Djoser, also known as the Step Pyramid, is considered the oldest of the seven monumental pyramids built about 4,500 years ago. The Pyramid of Djoser, built at Saqqara in Egypt around 2680 BCE, is considered a significant milestone in monumental architecture. It is the first to disclose two crucial innovations: a pyramid shape for the Pharaohs tomb and the exclusive use of fully dressed stones for masonry. In practice, it is also revolutionary in the ability to extract and raise stones by millions before stacking them with precision. Djosers complex visible achievements are such that its architect, Vizier, and Great Priest of Ra, Imhotep, was deified by the New Kingdom. In a new transdisciplinary analysis, Dr. Xavier Landreau from CEA Paleotechnic Institute and colleagues discovered that a hydraulic lift may have been used to build the pyramid. Based on their mapping of the nearby watersheds, the authors found that one of the unexplained massive Saqqara structures, the Gisr el-Mudir enclosure, has the features of a check dam with the intent to trap sediment and water. In addition, a series of compartments dug into the ground outside of the pyramid may have served as a water treatment facility, allowing sediment to settle as water passed through each subsequent compartment. Water may then have been able to flow into the pyramid shafts themselves, where the force of its rise could help carry the building stones. Further research is still needed to understand how water might have flowed through the shafts, as well as how much water was available on the landscape at that point in Earths history. But the archaeologists suggest that even as other building methods like ramps were probably also used to help build the pyramid, a hydraulic lift system could have been used to support the building process when there was enough water. We identified that the Step Pyramids internal architecture is consistent with a hydraulic elevation mechanism never reported before, they said. The ancient architects may have raised the stones from the pyramid center in a volcano fashion using the sediment-free water from the Dry Moats south section. Ancient Egyptians are famous for their pioneering and mastery of hydraulics through canals for irrigation purposes and barges to transport huge stones. This work opens a new line of research: the use of hydraulic force to erect the massive structures built by Pharaohs. The study appears online in the journal PLoS ONE. _____ X. Landreau et al. 2024. On the possible use of hydraulic force to assist with building the Step Pyramid of Saqqara. PLoS ONE 19 (8): e0306690; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306690 I believe that a CCBHC system is necessary to move mental health care forward especially in rural communities. Wil Morris OnPoint is the CCBHC serving Allegan County. Wil Morris Mark Witte As a CCBHC, Sanilac County CMH can better serve all ages. Being a CCBHC allows OnPoint to better succeed in its mission, vision, and values. Washtenaw County CMH, LifeWays, Summit Pointe, and Genesee Health System are four more of the CCBHCs serving 29 Michigan counties. Kathy Szenda Wilson is co-director of Pulse, a project of the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research that works to increase child care supply, advocate for best practices at the regional and state levels, and help employers navigate childcare (L-R) Andy Richards, executive vice president and COO of Battle Creek Duncan Aviation, stops to talk with team members David Lidman and Jason Henry inside the new 46,00-square-foot hanger in Battle Creek. Liz Van Dussen, human resource manager at Battle Creek Duncan Aviation, drops off her 2-year-old son Cade at Bright Light Early Learning and Care before heading to work. Bright Light Early Learning and Care in Battle Creek, Mich. has agreed with Battle Creek Duncan Aviation to offer priority to Duncan Aviation team members on the centers waiting list to improve access to early child care. Duncan Aviation-Battle Creek, located at Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field in Battle Creek, Mich., is one of the citys largest employers with a workforce of nearly 800. Travis Perkins posted a drop in first-half profit on Tuesday as it pointed to continued weak demand across its end markets and cut its profit outlook for the full year. In the six months to 30 June, adjusted operating profit fell 33% to 75m, while pre-tax profit was down to 15.6m from 85.7m. Revenue declined 4.4% from the same period a year earlier to 2.36bn. The company said there had been a continuation of the trends from the second half of 2023, with weak demand across end markets and commodity price deflation. The revenue fall was driven by the merchanting segment, it said, which was hit by continued subdued activity in the construction sector and significant price deflation, predominantly on commodity products. Travis Perkins said Toolstation delivered a "solid" revenue performance, reflecting further market share gains as maturity benefits continue to come through. The company said full-year adjusted operating profit is expected to be around 150m inclusive of 16m of losses related to Toolstation France. This is down from expectations of between 160m and 180m in March. Chief executive Nick Roberts said: "Trading conditions have remained challenging through the first half of the year and we have continued to prioritise delivering for our customers whilst also recognising that a persistently lower volume environment means that we have to deliver a simpler, more efficient business. Whilst market conditions have impacted on our trading margin, we have made good progress on managing our overhead base and generating cash. "With a new government quickly setting out its plans to reform planning to deliver more housing and infrastructure, and the expectation of an easing in macroeconomic conditions, the group is focused on ensuring that it is well placed to maximise the benefits from both a future recovery in demand and the long term requirement for the UK to expand and decarbonise its housing stock." The late arrival of warm summer weather drove a recovery in retail sales last month, industry data shows, despite continuing signs of consumers holding back on big ticket purchases amid the cost of living crisis. Figures from the British Retail Consortium showed that UK total retail sales increased by 0.5% year on year in July, a recovery from the washout month of June when colder weather deterred shoppers from spending on the high street. Guardian Google violated antitrust laws as it built an internet search empire, a federal judge ruled on Monday in a decision that could have major implications for the way people interact with the internet. Judge Amit Mehta found that Google violated section 2 of the Sherman Act, a US antitrust law. His decision states that Google maintained a monopoly over search services and advertising. Guardian Warren Buffetts stock empire has lost at least $15bn (11.75bn) on its biggest holdings amid a global stock market sell-off. The money was wiped from the paper value of Berkshire Hathaways stock portfolio on Monday as Apple, Bank of America and Mitsubishi plummeted in value. The decline comes despite Mr Buffetts investment company building up major cash reserves in recent months by slashing its stock market positions. Telegraph Sensitive British military projects face disruption from the threatened closure of one of the countrys last remaining microchip factories. Coherent, a US semiconductor company, ceased taking orders at its facility in County Durham and said the 310,000 sq ft site may have to be sold after Apple dropped the business as a supplier. It can now be revealed the factorys customers also include Leonardo, the Italian defence giant that makes radar systems, electronic warfare devices and helicopters in the UK. It is understood the plant has previously supplied chips used for radar power amplifiers in Typhoon jets and other British military platforms. Telegraph A global scramble by opportunistic hedge funds to exit a well-trodden cheap borrowing gambit has been blamed for the share sell-off that shook financial markets on Monday. Japan suffered a fully fledged flight from shares with stock prices falling by 12 per cent and the jitters reverberated round the world, with share prices in London and then Wall Street falling sharply amid a stampede to reduce risk in portfolios and raise hard cash. The Times Rachel Reeves has refused to rule out changing a measure of the UKs debt pile, in a move that could free up billions of pounds for the chancellor at her forthcoming autumn budget. Speaking on a trip to New York and Toronto, Reeves said she would set out the precise details of her fiscal rules in her maiden budget, amid speculation that the government will change its debt-to-GDP measure to exclude losses made by the Bank of Englands bond-buying programme. The tweak could free up to 17 billion in headroom for the government, according to calculations from City analysts. The Times GenInnov, an innovation-focused global asset management platform, announced the appointment of Susan Gilbertson as Strategy Advisor in the US as it looks to focus on its expansion in the US and its financial services platform. Ms. Gilbertson will provide strategic input and expertise alongside Nilesh Jasani, CEO of GenInnov and Chief Portfolio Manager of LC GenInnov Global Innovation Fund, a long-only, innovation-focused, thematically diversified fund. The LC GenInnov Global Innovation Fund was launched by global investment institution Lighthouse Canton earlier this year and invests in companies poised for growth in the GenAI era. Ms. Gilbertson has over 35 years of experience in global financial markets. Most recently she was the Head of US Equity Research at Mizuho Securities, USA and a member of the US Equities Operating Committee. Mizuho Financial Group in Japan is among the top 3 financial groups in Japan and top 15 largest financial institutions globally. Prior to that she was at Jefferies for 14 years, as the Deputy Global Head of Equity Research. Jefferies is consistently ranked among the Top 10 in the Americas. Ms. Gilbertson is the CEO and Founder of Susan Gilbertson Enterprise (SGE), which provides advisory and consultant services to financial firms looking to grow sustainably with a focus on strategy, organizational structure and team building. She has an MBA from the UCLA Anderson School of Management and a BSc in Banking & International Finance from The Cass Business School, London, England. I am excited to welcome Susan as an adviser to GenInnov", said Mr. Jasani. "Her appointment reinforces GenInnov's commitment to provide innovative, differentiated, and flexible investment opportunities in Asia and the US. GenInnov is at the forefront of innovation in the Asset Management Industry, combining the latest in GenAI technology with fundamental financial analysis, said Ms. Gilbertson. I am honored to be a participant in GenInnovs growth and at the opportunity to partner once more with Mr. Nilesh. Mr. Jasani and Ms. Gilbertson worked together prior in research management at Jefferies, the global investment bank. The LC GenInnov Global Innovation Fund is led by Mr. Jasani, an industry veteran with over three decades of market experience and a subject matter expert on GenAI. It aims to capitalise on the rapid innovation and its market opportunities, expecting significant wealth creation in sectors like biotech, healthcare, robotics, mobility, wearables, and clean tech. Mr Jasani is based in Singapore and is a highly experienced and respected Asia equities industry professional. Most recently, he headed Jefferies Asia Equities and in 2010 was hired to build and lead Jefferies Asia Equity Research. Prior to Jefferies, Mr Jasani was hired in 2007 to build Credit Suisse's India research team which was one of the top which was ranked one of the top-ranked research teams across various industry polls in 2009 and 2010, with Mr. Jasani individually receiving the highest accolades in his macro domains. Given his extensive experience in Asia financial markets and deep business connections in Korea, Taiwan and IBM, Mr Jasani has a front row seat to the disruptive innovation coming out of Asia and a proven ability to identify the top global investment ideas in innovation. The man police say shot and wounded two NYPD sergeants with one bullet last week was held without bail on an attempted murder charge at his Friday arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court, the Daily News is reporting. According to police, Joshua Dorsett, 22, had held up several women in a Canal Street mahjong parlor before firing upon Sgt. Carl Johnson, 43, of the 5th Precinct, and Sgt. Christopher Leap, 34, of the 7th Precinct, as they attempted to take him into custody. Police say a 911 call came in at 4:15 p.m. about the robbery at 91 Canal St., where Dorsett had allegedly taken several womens purses at the parlor. Security video allegedly shows Dorsett pulling a gun on the women and announcing a robbery, the report said. As per the outlet, Assistant District Attorney Mireille Dee told the court: The defendant was tracked on video surveillance leaving the establishment and is seen counting cash nearby. He then goes into a clothing store where he attempts to purchase a change of clothes to disguise his appearance, was unable to find anything, and eventually fled. The owners of Good Dog Bar, a pet-friendly eatery, are closing their Atlantic City location after just a year of operation. Last call will be Sunday, owners Heather Gleason and Dave Garry said. They began Good Dog Bar with a Center City Philadelphia location in 2003. Citing too few customers, no beach concerts this summer and the cancellation of the citys airshow scheduled for this month, the owners said Monday that continuing to operate their Atlantic City branch isnt economically feasible. Despite all our tireless efforts and dedication to keeping Good Dog Bar in Atlantic City thriving, the economic challenges we have faced here have become insurmountable, Gleason and Gary said in a statement. The couple opened their second location in Atlantic City after renovating a building in the resorts Chelsea neighborhood into a haven for customers and their four-legged companions. The building was bought by developer Pat Fasano, who also owns other properties in the city. Fasano said he and other Atlantic City developers have faced a construction process stifled by a cumbersome permitting process. He added that a search is underway for a new tenant who can run a bar and restaurant. Im sure theres another cowboy who wants to get back on the saddle, Fasano told NJ Advance Media. Were going to try to reopen it as soon as we can. At the time, it opened with 5,000 square feet of space, 115 seats, 75 tables, two bars and a dog-friendly patio area with hand-painted murals of dogs. With Stockton Universitys Atlantic City campus about a block away, Fasano theorized the schools students were a particularly viable clientele that didnt find enough interest in the establishment. Good Dog Bar and Restaurant owners Heather Gleason and her husband Dave Garry talk at the second floor bar, Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023. The Atlantic City location is scheduled to open in March. Tim Hawk | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com The couple told NJ Advance Media last year that the buildings close proximity to the beach and back bay made the spot an ideal place for a business with a twist. Theres a lot of things Im excited about down here but in general, working with everybody in AC has been amazing, Gleason told NJ Advance Media ahead of the 2023 opening. The couple said theyre prioritizing their original location on South 15th Street near the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. Gift certificates will be honored this week at the Atlantic City location or in Philadelphia once the Jersey Shore spot closes. Rescue workers have recovered the body of a 29-year-old New Jersey man who was kayaking in a lake near Six Flags Great Adventure amusement park, according to an NJ.com report. The deceased, identified as John Pereira of Old Bridge, was found just before 4 p.m. Sunday in Prospertown Lake, officials told the outlet. The Ocean County Medical Examiners Office plans to conduct post-mortem examination. Authorities believe the kayak overturned in the water. Pereira was reported missing Saturday, just over 24 hours before rescue crews located his body. The search was reportedly at one point hindered by adverse weather. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Paul Blanford, 86, a daily presence at Staten Island food pantries who tirelessly delivered food to the homebound during the COVID-19 pandemic and remained a steady advocate for clients of Project Hospitality, died Monday, July 29. Blanford, of New Brighton, served as a volunteer for 20 years with Project Hospitality, after the agency helped him find his footing decades earlier. He was also a member of its board of directors for several years. He started his service to the not-for-profit agency as a peer educator, giving presentations about Project Hospitality to schools, houses of worship and Faith in Action mission teams. He went on to do community outreach speaking and distributing agency information at local soup kitchens, food pantries, community events and at houses of worship. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Blanford joined the mobile food pantry team for Project Hospitality and was instrumental in getting food out to people all across the Island. He never missed a day of volunteering during the pandemic, those who counted on him said, and he continued delivering until August 2023, when his health began to fail. He was at the food pantry every Tuesday and Friday at 7 a.m. to load up the van with hundreds of bags of food, including 50-pound bags of potatoes, onions and other vegetables an arduous task for even a young, able-bodied person. His humility and gratefulness to serve our communitys hungry often redirected my own focus and purpose, said Joseph Sicilian, a community advocate, retired educator and longtime member of the Project Hospitality board, who drove the food pantry truck with Blanford during the pandemic. His sense of fairness made us all careful that everyones bag was equal, stretching our produce to serve the first and last customer. In 2014, Project Hospitality recognized Blanfords years of selfless service to others with the Bishop Patrick Ahern Achievement Award. He was a tireless advocate for the clients of Project Hospitality, said the Rev. Terry Troia, president of Project Hospitality. Above all, Paul was a committed Christian, a servant of God and a selfless person who lived his life fully through service to others. Blanford was born in Buena Vista, Georgia, and moved to Brooklyn at age 12. There, he met his wife, Wilhelmina Walker, and the two were married for 50 years before her death in 2004. He and his wife also lived in Summerville, S.C., before he moved to Staten Island upon her death, where he lived with his daughter. He and his wife had seven children, and ultimately adopted three additional foster children. A skilled carpenter, Blanford took on various carpentry jobs to support his family. He also was a skilled electrician and could build a television from scratch, his family recalls. Blanford was also employed for many years as a long-distance truck driver, a career he enjoyed tremendously. He was an active member of Stapleton UAME Church and was a 33rd degree Mason. Blanford is survived by three daughters, Debra Gaskin, Maeola Stevenson and Roxanne Blanford; 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. A viewing will be held on Thursday, Aug. 8, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Brooklyn Funeral Home and Cremation Service. The viewing will be followed by a funeral service at 6 p.m. The recent announcement by the United States to pause more than $95 million in assistance to the Government of Georgia, following a comprehensive review of bilateral cooperation, is a decision that I believe to be misguided and detrimental. Such a move risks pushing Georgia into greater instability and creates an opportunity for increased Russian influence in the region. Georgia stands at a critical juncture in its democratic journey. The countrys progress, despite the challenges it faces, underscores the importance of continued support from the United States. For over three decades, U.S. assistance has played a pivotal role in the development and strengthening of Georgias economy and democratic institutions. This support has not only built schools and hospitals, but also trained teachers, civil servants and medical professionals. Our investments have equipped and trained Georgias Defense Forces and Coast Guard, directly contributing to the nations security and stability. Pausing assistance now sends the wrong message to both the people of Georgia and the broader international community. It signals a retreat from our commitment to support the Republic of Georgia during a time when it most needs our steadfast support. Georgias Euro-Atlantic aspirations are aligned with the values of democracy, rule of law, and economic development, values that the United States has historically championed. Furthermore, continued assistance is essential for the advancement of democracy and the strengthening of critical institutions within Georgia. Supporting teachers, hospitals, medical professionals, and other democratic institutions is crucial as Georgia navigates its path toward a stable and prosperous future. Abandoning these efforts now would undermine the progress made and jeopardize the future prospects of a key ally in the Caucasus region. It is imperative that the United States remains committed to supporting the Republic of Georgia. By doing so, we not only uphold our values, but also contribute to the stability and security of the region. It is a time to bolster our support, not withdraw it. Georgias journey toward democracy is ongoing, and it is our responsibility to stand by them as they strive to achieve their aspirations. (Ibrahim Kurtulus is a Dongan Hills resident.) While Dominic Perrottet didnt last all that long as premier, his role in turbocharging the states march out of lockdown and commitment to fighting Big Pokie won him a lot more goodwill among Liberal hacks, business figures and politicians from the other side of the aisle than other recent electoral losers. Loading So when Perrottet delivered his sayonara to the Macquarie Street bearpit after 13 years in parliament on Tuesday afternoon, complete with one final crack at the heinous Cahill Expressway, the public gallery was packed with Liberal Party grandees, corporate titans and even a few Labor types. Former prime minister Paul Keating showed up and received a glowing tribute from Perrottet, who described himself as the political love child of John Howard and Keating. From Doms own side, former premier Mike Baird was spotted in the crowd, along with a few relics from the last Liberal government, Brad Hazzard and Stuart Ayres. Advertisement Exclusive Eating outRestaurant news This trailblazing Fitzroy pizzeria is changing hands after 21 years New owners will be stoking the wood ovens at Gertrude Street landmark Ladro. But dont worry the Badabing pizza isnt budging. Dani Valent August 6, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share After 21 years, Fitzroy pizza originator Ladro is changing hands, with owner Sean Kierce handing the pizza peel to veteran suburban restaurateur Mark Natoli. I realised I was waking up in the morning and finding reasons not to go into the restaurant, says Kierce. I knew it was time to get out. Natoli already owns three pizza and pasta restaurants, Hugo Dining in Essendon, Cena in Deer Park, and Moonee Ponds Carosello, which he bought in 2016. Its thought to be Melbournes oldest existing pizza restaurant, dating to the mid-1960s. Taking on an institution, carrying on a legacy, thats what I do, says Natoli. Sean Kierce (right) is handing Ladro Gertrude to Mark Natoli, who owns Melbournes oldest pizza place. Wayne Taylor Advertisement It was grand final day in 2003 when Kierce, designer Ingrid Langtry and chef Rita Macali first welcomed diners to their 45-seat restaurant for thin-crust Roman-style pizza. At the time, Gertrude Street, especially Ladros southern side, was better known for drug trade and graffiti than piping hot wood-fired margherita. But the food fans thronged. The Age Good Food Guide named Ladro best new restaurant the following year, noting: Ladros phone is a hotline to Melbournes hot seats. Ladro means thief in Italian and there were a few pizza tricks swiped from the old country. On the other hand, the venue seemed strongly rooted in Melbourne from the outset, drawing diners away from the paunchy capricciosa pizzas of nearby Lygon Street, and suggesting there was a new kind of fine dining: casual, sassy, ingredient-driven, well-lit and fashionable. We hit the nail on the head without really meaning to, says Kierce. Ritas food spoke for itself. It was loud and bustling, we were down to earth. I think it was the honesty that people responded to. The plate-sized pizzas were the talk of Melbourne, but Kierce is almost embarrassed when he looks back. Advertisement We used to make the dough at 2pm and let it rise, he says. Wed have our staff meal at 4pm, and someone would look over at the dough bucket and notice it was overflowing. Thats how we knew we had to knock it back and make our dough balls. The pizza we made at the beginning is what people would make at home now. Outgoing Ladro owner Sean Kierce Now, the restaurant uses a bespoke flour mix and cold-ferments the dough for up to three days. The pizza we made at the beginning is what people would make at home now, he says. The development of food culture in Melbourne is truly incredible. More recently, hes noticed an uptick in knowledge about cheese and cured meats. A few years ago, youd say burrata and people wouldnt know what you meant, he says. Now they not only know burrata, they can tell you how much they love stracciatella, and which prosciutto they prefer. Kierce is the last remaining original partner. Rita Macali had a brain tumour and exited in 2008, before regrouping to run Supermaxi in Fitzroy North between 2010 and 2022. Kierce and Langtry opened a second Ladro in Greville Street, Prahran, in 2010 and ran it for 12 years. Over time, Langtry leaned into her design career and finally left the partnership last year. Advertisement Founding chef Rita Macali, Ingrid Langtry and Sean Kierce outside the Gertrude Street premises in 2003. Ken Irwin Kierce considers himself a COVID casualty. I enjoyed the challenge of lockdowns, keeping everything together, our staff, our customers, our food. But I worked seven days a week for two years, he says. I came out of it and things fell into a heap. It wasnt as fun as it used to be. He looks back on 2022 as the hardest year. A lack of staff, rising costs, rent issues - a perfect storm. I just felt done. His last day is Sunday and, after a few months off, Kierce will move into a job as hospitality director at the Marriner Group, overseeing catering at some of Melbournes most prominent theatres. Ill be making sure the choc tops are the right flavour at the Princess Theatre, and ensuring the champagne served at a BHP event at the Plaza Ballroom is the correct temperature, he says. Mark Natolis old school friend and corporate escapee Stefano Boscaglia will also take a stake in Ladro. Advertisement I used to work in my parents restaurant, and Ive maintained a keen interest in hospitality, says Boscaglia. Ive always admired Ladro, and its an honour to take the baton. The new guard will retain Ladro favourites (the Badabing pizza with spicy pork and fennel sausage is safe), but there are changes planned. Well add banquettes, redo some tiling and look at increasing the numbers, says Boscaglia. But well see what the feedback is, look at the demand. We want to invest in Ladro. After 12 years, Prahran pizza restaurant Ladro Tap has permanently closed Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up Neighbourhood restaurants are having a resurgence says the co-owner of new Bronte venue Table Manners. Best of all? You dont have to Uber in and out, says Alex Cameron. In the lead-up to this weeks launch of Table Manners restaurant in Bronte, its social media has been littered with quirky messaging, encouraging budding customers to play with their food and seemingly disparaging its own moniker by encouraging the social faux pas of double-dipping. From left: Co-owner Alex Cameron, co-owner John Breen, head chef Luke Churchill. Jennifer Soo While most restaurants tease with pre-launch food shots, Table Manners has a short video of a diner eating pasta by hand at a table set up in a shopping mall. But this isnt the opening of an all-you-can-eat buffet Table Manners is a slick neighbourhood restaurant with pedigreed owners and chef with upmarket restaurants Franca and Oncore by Clare Smyth on their CVs. Table Manners co-owner Alex Cameron is part of the new breed of restaurateurs shirking the old-school local pamphlet-drop approach and pumping funds into a videography and digital marketing specialist instead. I gave Fortem Media pretty much carte blanche to do something different and fun to promote the idea behind the brand without really focusing on the actual food offering, Cameron says. The restaurant might have a slick Blainey North-designed interior, walls strewn with art and a menu where even its sandwich offering is filled with Moreton Bay bug, but Cameron wants its message to be fun. I hope you leave your table manners at home, enjoy yourself. Older doctors would be forced to undergo health checks to ensure they can safely treat patients under a crackdown by Australias medical watchdog. The Medical Board of Australia has proposed new health checks for doctors over 70, as it releases data showing medical practitioners in this age group are 81 per cent more likely to be the subject of a complaint compared with their younger counterparts. Data shows doctors aged 70 and older are 81 per cent more likely to be the subject of a complaint than their younger counterparts. Credit: stevecoleimages The boards chair, Dr Anne Tonkin, said doctors were often reluctant patients who did not always seek the care they needed. We are looking for effective and practical ways to support late-career doctors to stay in safe practice, through health checks that will identify and enable doctors to address any risks that come from increasing age, she said. Shares in the technology giants (and everything else) have dropped dramatically in the US this week, with computer chip designer Nvidia notably falling substantially on fears that the AI frenzy is a fad. Thats not my view, which is to either sit tight, or buy up any emerging bargains if you can. Indeed, Im holding on to my Nvidia shares. With a near-monopoly position in making graphics processing units (GPUs) or advanced computer chips that can process complex computing functions such as AI, Nvidia is a cash cow. When I first bought Nvidia shares, I was struck by the importance of advanced computer chips or GPUs for enabling the digital age. Credit: Bloomberg It is one of the largest companies in the US, with a market-leading position protected by the US government, which is doing everything it can to keep advanced computer chips out of China. The company enjoys huge profit margins of about 100 per cent and its profits are up by more than 600 per cent in its first-quarter FY25 results. I expect more good things to come. The bottom line is that the digital age is here to stay. And it is a long journey, so Ive jumped on board by investing in quality technology companies that dominate their marketplaces, such as Nvidia. The NSW Joint Counter Terrorism Team has charged a teenage boy over a stabbing at the University of Sydney that led to the lockdown of parts of its Camperdown campus. Just after 8.30am on July 2, emergency services responded to reports of a stabbing near the universitys Parramatta Road entrance. The University of Sydneys Camperdown campus was sent into chaos after a stabbing on July 2. Credit: Janie Barrett Melvern Kurniawan, 22, was treated at the scene for a stab wound to his neck but was later released from the nearby Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. Police cordons were established after the incident, with parts of the campus shut down as officers investigated. The federal government has intervened in a stoush between UNSW and drama college NIDA over a controversial 1000-bed student housing project, warning the university it could be in breach of a long-term lease by pushing the development through. It comes despite the Commonwealth telling universities they must build more accommodation if they want more international students, and committing NSW to building 377,000 new homes by 2029 through the National Housing Accord. A render of the proposed student housing development on Anzac Parade, opposite UNSW. At a planning panel hearing on Tuesday, NIDA unleashed a full court press, with chief executive Liz Hughes fighting back tears as she said the planned 16-storey building would destroy NIDAs ability to operate, while NIDA board member and actor Sigrid Thornton said it threatens to sabotage NIDAs viability. The drama concerns a proposal by UNSW and private student housing provider Iglu to build 15- and 16-storey towers on a university-owned car park on Anzac Parade. The site is across the road from the main UNSW campus, and beside a light rail station and NIDA. The states top union leader has lashed the Minns governments push to get public sector workers back in the office, arguing employees were blindsided by the shift away from working from home. NSW Premier Chris Minns department this week issued a directive requiring all non-frontline public servants to work principally from an approved office, workplace or related work site. Premier Chris Minns wants public sector employees to work principally from the office from now on. Credit: Sam Mooy A government circular outlining the changes did not prescribe a required pattern of attendance and said individual agencies would be responsible for designing and monitoring their policies. The starting position is that work is principally done in an approved workplace in NSW, the circular said. Asking parents about their concerns should be written into Victorian hospitals rule books, a coroner has said, after finding an understaffed regional hospital failed to appreciate a mothers fears in the hours before her toddler, who had been discharged by a locum doctor, died. Steph Souvatzis, hugging a white toy rabbit, sobbed in her husbands arms as coroner Katherine Lorenz said on Tuesday that one-year-old Noahs death from bacterial meningitis had been preventable. Noah Souvatzis loved to smile and play at the park. Lorenz said all hospitals should have safeguards in place to empower parents to raise and escalate concerns about their children, and their views should be sought. She noted the Souvatzis family made five trips to hospital or urgent care facilities in 48 hours to try to get help for their increasingly unwell son. Noah was discharged from Wangaratta hospital after an inadequate review by an under-trained, junior locum doctor on his first shift at the understaffed regional healthcare provider, the coroner said. A childcare centre will be built in an industrial zone with chemical smells after a tribunal approved the development and ruled the children could play indoors if the odour is particularly strong. Childcare operator John Zhuang took his application to build a new childcare centre on Myrtle Street in Glen Waverley, in Melbournes south-east, to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) this year after the Monash Council rejected his proposal. Monash councillor Josh Fergeus outside the approved site for a new childcare centre in an industrial zone in Glen Waverley. Credit: Chris Hopkins Zhuangs plan, which received five submissions of support and two objections, is to redevelop the site with a two-level, 90-place childcare centre with two outdoor areas by 2027, amid rising demand for the service. However, the council argued such a facility at the location was inappropriate because it threatened both existing commercial activity and the amenity for children and educators. But her sworn testimony was brought to a halt after she reported feeling her blood pressure starting to go up, before making the extraordinary claim that the saga led to Kitchings untimely death. This is a particularly difficult given it led to Senator Kitchings death, she told the court. Kitching died of a heart attack on March 10, 2022, at the age of 52. Her death was followed by allegations she had been bullied by several of her parliamentary colleagues. When probed by lawyer Martin Bennett, Reynolds recounted the anger and hurt she felt a fortnight later as the first news publications detailing the mishandling of her ex-staffers alleged rape began emerging. Reynolds told the court she was overcome by emotions while reading an article by journalist Samantha Maiden about Higgins alleged rape and the political cover-up that followed. Senator Linda Reynolds and lawyer Martin Bennett outside the WA Supreme Court on Tuesday afternoon. Credit: Jesinta Burton From beginning to end, I felt sick. She said she felt forced to decide between reporting the rape to the AFP and keeping her job, and that was simply not true, Reynolds told the court. It just went downhill from there in terms of what she was alleging. She said numerous statements in the article were, according to her, untrue and that comments she had never uttered were attributed to her, including that she told Higgins as a woman, this is something we go through. Reynolds told the court she spent the hours that followed casting her mind back to cues she may have missed and trying to reconcile how their recollections could be so different before Higgins tell-all interview with The Project aired. I was incredibly angry and hurt, and she probably didnt even realise this, but she couldnt have picked a worse issue to bring me down, she said. It is such an abhorrent thing to say someone has mistreated a rape allegation and covered it up. Reynolds wiped away tears in court, saying suggestions she covered up the alleged rape of her own staffer impacted her in myriad ways, from unrelenting questions in parliament to a complete media frenzy. In the space of a couple of days, I had gone from a senator doing her job and doing it well to being nationally vilified, she said. Everybody looked at me differently. Even people on my own side were questioning has she really done this thing?... It was devastating. And she addressed revelations she uttered the words lying cow while watching the Network 10 broadcast, words she said she couldnt recall but nonetheless apologised to her staff and Higgins for saying. Reynolds in parliament during Question Time in February, 2021. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen The former defence minister also detailed how her vision became impaired, chest tightened and knees buckled in parliament as she experienced her first symptoms of a previously undiagnosed cardiac disease exacerbated by stress. The sworn testimony came just hours after Bennett launched a bid to subpoena Higgins, her husband David Sharaz and sexual assault campaigner Saxon Mullins over a fundraiser to bankroll Higgins legal fees. Bennett told the court he would seek to obtain all communications between the trio, as well as political advisor Emma Webster and Higgins lawyer Carmel Galati over the fundraiser launched on Monday. He said the fundraiser, the proceeds of which Galati is to hold on trust for Higgins, was part of a carefully calculated campaign to characterise the proceedings as Reynolds seeking to silence a sexual assault survivor. It is not coincidental, nor do we see it as an attempt to attract followers to Higgins advocacy of sexual assault victims. It implies there is an attempt to prevent her from speaking about her alleged rape, Bennett told the court. The scope of the defamation case has grown again less than one week into the five-week trial. Bennett has filed an application to amend the case after Higgins published the cover of a book about silencing women to her Instagram while Reynolds was on the stand, a move he claimed amounted to aggravation. For the past year, Reynolds has been pursuing Higgins for damages as well as aggravated damages over several social media posts in which she claims she was accused of using the media to harass her former staffer. Loading Reynolds claims the posts were false and defamatory of her, brought her into public hatred and damaged her physical and mental health. Higgins is vigorously defending the claim on the basis the imputations of harassment and the mishandling of her alleged rape are true. The former staffer allegedly sold her home in France to bankroll the legal fees, which are already understood to be in the order of $1 million. WA Senator Linda Reynolds has wiped away tears in court, saying suggestions she covered up the alleged rape of Brittany Higgins impacted her in myriad ways, from unrelenting questions in parliament to media pressure. The former staffer gave a tell-all interview about her alleged rape by former colleague Bruce Lehrmann with The Project on February 15, 2021 (he maintains his innocence). Reynolds said in the days following, a complete media frenzy bombarded her and her office. Senator Linda Reynolds has teared up on the stand. Credit: AAPIMAGE When her lawyer Martin Bennett asked about the impact the allegations had on her, Reynolds told the court she was devastated and felt even members of her own party were questioning her innocence. There are actually no words to describe what it was like to be accused of covering up the rape of a young woman in my office, [an accusation] which I knew was not true, she said. In the space of a couple of days, I had gone from a senator doing her job and doing it well to being nationally vilified. Everybody looked at me differently, even people on my own side were questioning has she really done this thing? ... It was devastating. The former defence minister is now recounting how her vision became impaired, chest tightened and knees buckled in Parliament as she experienced her first experience with a then-undiagnosed cardiac disease. I had stared down these questions every day, but I just began sobbing uncontrollably, she said. I just had nothing left. I was completely incoherent. Thats the dirty little secret in Parliament House were human beings, too. We dont come wearing armour. Australias former top spy says Palestinian refugees who may support militant group Hamas should not be automatically excluded from Australia, as the Coalition warns of the risks of offering permanent residency. Dennis Richardsons intervention comes a week after this masthead reported Labor was preparing new avenues to permanent residency for 1300 Palestinians, some of whom are struggling to make ends meet as their temporary visas block them from work and social security. Former director-general of ASIO and defence secretary Dennis Richardson says some visa security checks, including for those with dual citizenship, will be easier than others. Credit: Andrew Meares They were given three-month visitor visas, and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said on Sunday that no country would force them back to under-siege Gaza. The Coalition has used the visa issue to question whether Labor is overlooking concerns about religious extremism in its attempts to ameliorate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Top United Nations human rights experts have blasted the federal government for moving too slowly to pay compensation to the relatives of victims of alleged war crimes committed by Australian troops in Afghanistan, including the family of a man who died after allegedly being kicked off a cliff by decorated soldier Ben Roberts-Smith. Declaring it unconscionable that it had taken so long for the government to establish a financial compensation scheme, the human rights experts also called on the Australian War Memorial in Canberra to stop celebrating Roberts-Smith as a war hero after a Federal Court judge found in a defamation case last year Roberts-Smith had committed war crimes. Ben Roberts-Smith in front of Michael Zavros portrait of him at the Australian War Memorial in 2014. Credit: Jay Cronan The experts including University of Sydney professor Ben Saul, the UN special rapporteur on human rights and counter-terrorism, and Richard Bennett, the special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan singled out three Afghan families as especially worthy of financial compensation for alleged wrongdoing by Australian troops. These include the family of Ali Jan, an Afghan man who was allegedly killed by a subordinate at Roberts-Smiths direction after the Victoria Cross winner kicked him off a small cliff. Towns and cities around the UK have been shaken by a week of riots, fuelled by online misinformation and extremist views, following a deadly knife attack in the town of Southport. The unrest has led to the arrest of at least 378 rioters as the events spread from Englands north-west, where the attack occurred, to the north-east, London and even Belfast in Northern Ireland. The disturbance has authorities contending with false claims online, while trying to tackle far-right thuggery on city streets. Britains Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, has promised a reckoning for criminals and thugs who took part in violence on streets, burning buildings, attacks on mosques, looting shops and the whipping up of racist violence online. Alice Aguiar, 9 (left), Bebe King, 6, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7, were killed in the knife attack. Credit: Facebook Why are there riots in Britain? Philadelphia: Vice President Kamala Harris has picked Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate for the White House, setting the scene for a historic election that has been upended by Joe Bidens decision to pull out of the race. With 91 days until election day, Harris introduced the 60-year-old former teacher and football coach to voters at a rally in the swing state of Pennsylvania, describing him as a fighter for the middle class and a leader who will help unite our nation. Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz speak at a campaign rally in Philadelphia. Credit: AP Walz, in turn, praised the vice president for bringing joy to the election campaign while taking jabs at their Republican rivals, Donald Trump and J.D. Vance. Make no mistake: violent crime was up under Donald Trump and thats not even counting the crimes he committed! Walz told the raucous crowd as they started chanting: Lock him up! Lock him up! PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament Omar Ottley, as the leader of the United Peoples Party(UPP), reiterates his commitment to ensuring children born in St Maarten to non-Dutch parents have lived in St. Maarten and contributed to our tax system for ten consecutive years will receive residency upon birth. "The reception from the public has been incredible. While the data is limited, as a Minister and MP, I have met many of our youth who are stateless or undocumented and unable to leave St. Maarten to further their studies abroad. Continuously met with roadblocks and missing out on crucial opportunities. If we are to "Save We,' it starts with our education system and ensuring that the children coming out of our secondary education system can experience the world to bring back valuable knowledge to St. Maarten. While some may see this as just protection of our children, this legislative amendment and crucial changes to other social, labor, and educational reforms is an investment into the youth of our country, stated MP Ottley. While many see just the crime and violence issue, MP Ottley also sees the deeper social issues that are the root causes of many of these acts of violence. With the current legislation allowing residency at only 16 years of age, our undocumented young adults must wait until they are 21 years of age to start the naturalization process to get a Dutch passport, as they need five consecutive residency permits to begin the process. Given the limited continuing education offered at St. Maarten, there is often no other choice than to continue the study elsewhere abroad. As the recent graduates have just left to embark on their educational journey abroad, MP Ottley can only imagine the number of our high school graduates who cannot leave. According to the UNICEF report Situation Analysis on Children and Adolescents on Sint Maarten 2020, there is a growing number of undocumented migrants on the island. Typically, undocumented migrants are young, lack formal education, and (due to their precarious status) live predominately in the shadows. They are hesitant to share their immigration status with officials, thus making it more challenging for this population to receive the information and support they may need to obtain health insurance and welfare benefits or enroll their children in school. Attention to the undocumented and unregulated residence of children born in St. Maarten is essential to ensuring their rights and well-being. It offers the opportunity for legal recognition, access to essential services, and integration into society. These provisions are essential for child development and promote social cohesion, economic stability, and compliance that meets international human rights standards, particularly children's rights. Growing up without legal recognition can lead to significant psychological adverse effects, including feelings of insecurity, fear of deportation, and negative self-image. Undocumented children are vulnerable as they do not have equal access to public services, despite government measures to make such services available for undocumented children, such as education. Some interviewees indicated that despite this, practical barriers hinder children from accessing education. The 2016-2017 primary and secondary school registration systems reported the total of undocumented students to be at 962 (764 and 198 respectively). (MEYS source cited on page 70 of UNICEF report Situational analysis of children and adolescents in St. Maarten in 2020). With this amendment and future plans to work with the Netherlands to reduce the age of naturalization, we will ensure a smoother path to obtaining a Dutch passport for people who were born on St. Maarten and call our island their home. MP Ottley's commitment to inclusive and responsible governance is reflected in these legislative efforts, ensuring that St. Maarten continues to uphold its values while addressing critical social issues. PHILIPSBURG:--- In a powerful display of community leadership and dedication to peace, Honourable Member of Parliament and Leader of the United People's Party (UPP) Omar E.C. Ottley has brought together Dutch Quarter Community leaders, the Minister of Justice, and Police Chief Commissioner Carl John to address recent unrest in the area. This significant effort, supported by proactive Community Police Officers, has rekindled hope and pride among the residents of St. Maarten. Following a series of troubling events in the Dutch Quarter, including vehicle fires and gunshots, MP Ottley acted swiftly at the request of Community Police Officers. Recognizing the urgent need for dialogue and understanding, he first met with key community members on Tuesday morning to express his concern and encourage a peaceful resolution. Later that day, MP Ottley facilitated a crucial meeting between community leaders and the police, chaired by Minister of Justice Lyndon Lewis, to directly address the escalating tensions. Minister Lewis opened the meeting by thanking MP Ottley for his initiative and thanked the community members for attending the meeting. Justice Minister Lewis and Police Chief Commissioner Carl John emphasized the importance of collaboration and mutual respect between law enforcement and the community. MP Ottley, a passionate advocate for ending violence, has been a steadfast voice of reason and support for the youth of St. Maarten. He has consistently encouraged young men and women to seek guidance and reach out to him directly when facing challenges, offering them a supportive ear and practical solutions. His compassionate approach was evident in his handling of the Dutch Quarter situation. "The police have a responsibility to serve and protect the community," MP Ottley stated during the meeting. "They must do so with respect for community members, and in return, the community must respect the police and the crucial, often dangerous role they play in keeping us all safe." This sentiment was echoed strongly by both Police Chief Commissioner Carl John and Justice Minister Lewis, underscoring the necessity of mutual respect and understanding. The meeting also addressed critical issues, such as the impact of utility company NV GEBE's power outages, which have been exploited for criminal activities. Chief Commissioner Carl John noted that he had requested NV GEBE to avoid cutting power in the Dutch Quarter at night to help curb such opportunities for crime. MP Ottley demonstrated his unwavering commitment to fostering peace and unity in St. Maarten through this heartfelt initiative. His ability to bring together community leaders and law enforcement underscores the importance of open dialogue and collaboration in overcoming challenges. Addressing the police, MP Ottley remarked, "The power of communication is evident here, as these young men often just need someone to listen to them, and that can go a long way." MP Ottley's efforts, supported by Community Police Officers and endorsed by Justice Minister Lewis, address immediate concerns and set a precedent for how communities and law enforcement can work together to ensure safety and security for all. Also in attendance at the meeting were several members of the rank and file of the Police Management Team and the Community Police Officers. As St. Maarten navigates through these challenging times, MP Omar E.C. Ottley's leadership and vision serve as a beacon of hope. His dedication to the well-being of the community and his proactive approach to conflict resolution are inspiring examples of effective and compassionate leadership. PHILIPSBURG:--- Questions have been recently raised about a foreign company being awarded a contract by the National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB) to repair twelve (12) school gyms, but much of the information circulating regarding the process has been misleading or inaccurate. The NRPB finds it unfortunate that some have implied a breach of integrity by its staff, as by law the organization and its personnel have strictly adhered to the World Banks rules when awarding contracts, selecting the most suitable bidder for the job. All bids are assessed against detailed cost estimates prepared by local professionals with vast expertise in the local construction market. Despite insinuations to the contrary, the NRPB is happy that about 90.3% of its awarded works contracts have gone to locally established businesses and contractors. This high rate of local involvement was possible because the NRPB encourages participation from all qualified firms, without discrimination, to deliver high-quality projects and services in the most efficient manner for the people Sint Maarten. Additionally, while adhering to the World Banks leading procurement standards, the NRPBs vetting process ensures that none of the companies are on any local or international sanctions list and have the necessary experience, expertise, and accountability to complete projects in the best manner. As for the school gym repair tender itself, both qualified bids exceeded the NRPBs cost estimates, but the highest-ranked bidder was still within an acceptable range. I am disheartened that the integrity of NRPB personnel has been publicly questioned. Our team works tirelessly to uphold the highest standards of transparency, fairness, and compliance. We stand firmly behind our employees and their commitment to ensuring that all projects benefit the people of Sint Maarten for the long term, said Claret Connor, NRPB Director. The Director added: We work proudly on behalf of the Government of Sint Maarten, and at the end of the day, the NRPB must follow the regulations laid out in the Administrative Arrangement of the Trust Fund and various grant agreements for all projects. Not living up to these agreements is an option the country cannot afford, as this could lead to legal sanctions and ineligible costs, resulting in repayments to the World Bank by the Government of Sint Maarten. The operations of the NRPB are funded via the Sint Maarten Trust Fund, which is financed by the Netherlands and managed by the World Bank. The NRPBs mandate is to implement projects geared to the recovery and reconstruction of Sint Maarten following the destruction of Hurricane Irma, as well as strengthening the Governments long-term development priorities. Since its establishment in 2018, the NRPB has undertaken numerous projects to support Sint Maarten's recovery and development. The NRPB has repaired schools, restored private and social homes, public buildings, supported micro, small and medium businesses, and removed the shipwrecks from the lagoon. Additionally, the NRPB is strengthening emergency services with new equipment and vehicles, enhancing the waste sector, transforming governments digital technology, and improving mental health services, just to mention a few activities. For more information about the NRPBs procurement processes and current tenders, please visit www.nrpbsxm.org/procurement. Companies interested in opportunities with the NRPB are encouraged to register on its procurement page to receive tender alerts. Persons can also stay connected through the NRPBs Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram channels for updates. Global Church Network Announces Partnership with Assemblies of God USA to Equip Future Ministers Global Church Divinity School, a Pioneer in Online Education, to Offer Specialized and Private Training Courses to AG Ministry Leaders NEWS PROVIDED BY Global Church Network Aug. 6, 2024 ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 6, 2024 /Standard Newswire/ -- The Executive Presbytery of the Assemblies of God USA has approved Global Church Divinity School (GCDS), an early pioneer in online divinity studies and ministry preparation, as a Church-Based Bible Institute for training future Assemblies of God (AG) ministers. Part of the Global Church Network (GCN), the largest pastors network in the world, GCDS offers more than 200 interactive courses taught by renowned Christian leaders. Over the last two years, the GCDS team selected highly qualified AG pastors, leaders and professors to teach 25 required courses via video recordings. The specialized, private AG Training Track includes 365 lectures, more than 4,600 pages of edited transcripts and automated testing. Although official credentialing occurs at the state level through district offices and networks, GCDS students can enroll now and begin required courses for certified, licensed and ordained levels. "Dr. James O. Davis and I have been friends for 35 plus years. We are excited about this partnership that will equip future Assemblies of God pastors and ministers," shared Dr. Terry Rayburn, District Superintendent of the Peninsular Florida AG. "We are already promoting GCDS in our district." Since its inception in 2001, GCN has focused on making ministry education accessible to busy professionals and those living far from traditional seminaries. The coalition of more than 2,750 denominations and 700,000 churches launched GCDS in response to a foreseen shortage of future ministers. Whether the Church is growing rapidly or experiencing slower growth, there are not enough pastors to fill existing pulpits or start new churches. "Since 2018, I have been privileged to serve as co-chair of FINISH 2030 in the Global Church Network," says Dr. Tommy Barnett, founder of Dream City Church, an AG megachurch in Phoenix, Arizona, and Dream Centers International, Los Angeles, California. "One of our strategic global goals is the Million Ministers Mandate, which seeks to equip at least one million young ministers by 2030. We are synergizing among every major denomination and fellowship in order to mobilize key leaders and help to finalize the Great Commission." GCDS is designed to support the Million Ministers Mandate and fill this enormous shortage of needed ministers (pastors, evangelists, youth pastors, church planters) to fulfill the Great Commission. Tens of thousands of ministers have already been equipped worldwide through GCDS. "In the future, who you study with will be more important than where you studied," asserts founder of the GCN and GCDS, Dr. James O. Davis, who has been an AG minister for over 39 years. "Distance died when the Internet was born. By 2030, most classes and courses will be available online only. For GCDS, this means students can learn directly from the greatest teachers in the world, from anywhere in the world. It's a powerful, cost-effective opportunity for the next generation of ministers." This new partnership will expand the reach of GCDS to more than 13,000 local AG churches in the United States. "I believe every Assemblies of God Church should consider opening a GCDS campus," said Rev. Terry Lamer, Senior Pastor of First Assembly of God in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. "Not only is it cost-effective, but we can educate young leaders for full-time ministry without them carrying a heavy debt load." To learn more about The Global Church Divinity School, visit https://gcds.tv/. About Global Church Network Established in 2001, Global Church Network is a coalition of more than 2,750 denominations and 700,000 churches working together to build the premier community of pastors worldwide. The network has helped plant five million new churches for a billion-soul harvest and is the largest pastors network in the world. For more information, visit gcnw.tv. The Global Church Divinity School offers more than 260 courses in 8 languages, with over 1,000 lecture hours and 200-plus faculty members. GCDS interfaces with the Global Hubs of Christianity in the Global Church Network, providing the finest training possible even in the hardest places in the world. For more information, visit gcds.tv. SOURCE Global Church Network CONTACT: Lauren Briggs, A. Larry Ross Communications, 972-267-1111, lauren@alarryross.com Rockets launched at base hosting US troops in Iraq: military source Baghdad, Aug 5 (AFP) Aug 05, 2024 Rockets were fired on Monday towards an Iraqi base hosting US troops days after an American strike killed four pro-Iran Iraqi fighters, and amid fears of regional escalation, Iraqi sources said. "Rockets were launched at Ain al-Assad base" in Anbar province, said the military source. While some "fell inside the base", one rocket landed on a nearby village without causing any damage, the source added. A commander in a pro-Iran armed group told AFP that at least "two rockets targeted" the base, without saying who had carried out the attack. Another source in the group and a security source confirmed an attack occurred. All sources spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorised to speak to the media. Such attacks were frequent early in the war between Israel and Hamas Palestinian militants in Gaza but since then have largely halted. But the latest rocket fire comes as fears grow of an attack by Iran and its allies on Israel in retaliation for the killing of top Hamas and Hezbollah figures in strikes last weeks either blamed on or claimed by Israel. The killings, with both Iran and Hezbollah vowing retaliation, are among the most serious series of tit-for-tat attacks that had already heightened fears of a regional conflagration stemming from the Gaza war. The Iran-aligned "Axis of Resistance" against Israel, which also includes Iraqi groups and Yemen's Huthis, have already been drawn into the nearly 10-month war. - Talks - Monday's rocket attack also occurred after US forces carried out an air strike Tuesday night on pro-Iran Iraqi fighters who were attempting to launch drones that were deemed a threat to American and allied troops, a US official said. The strike, which Iraqi sources said left four killed, was the first by American forces in Iraq since February. There have been two recent attacks targeting bases hosting US and allied forces in Iraq -- on July 16 and 25. The troops are part of an anti-jihadist coalition. Prior to that, US troops in Iraq and Syria had not been targeted since April. But attacks against them were much more common in the first few months of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, when they were targeted more than 175 times. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a loose alliance of pro-Iran groups, claimed the majority of the attacks, saying they were in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. In January, a drone strike blamed on those groups killed three US soldiers at a base in Jordan. In retaliation, US forces launched dozens of strikes against Tehran-backed fighters in Iraq and Syria. Since then, attacks against US troops have largely halted. Baghdad has sought to defuse tensions, engaging in talks with Washington on the future of the US-led coalition's mission in Iraq, with Iran-backed groups demanding a withdrawal. The US military has around 2,500 troops in Iraq and 900 in Syria. Air strikes hit famine-struck displacement camp in Sudan's Darfur Port Sudan, Sudan, Aug 5 (AFP) Aug 05, 2024 Air strikes hit the Zamzam camp for displaced people in Sudan's war-ravaged Darfur region, two organisations said Monday, days after an assessment found that "famine is ongoing" at the camp. "Zamzam camp in Sudan was shelled for the 1st time on Sunday night," medical charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF) wrote on social media platform X. It warned that "since the warring parties have already hit hospitals 10 times & do not spare civilians, there is a clear risk of bloodshed if it is hit again". The General Coordination for Refugees and Displaced, an independent Sudanese aid group, said the army used fighter jets to hit the camp. It said the strikes "injured four children and destroyed 20 homes". Aid group Plan International had previously estimated that the camp population had swollen to half a million people due to fighting in the nearby city of El-Fasher, which is under siege by paramilitaries. Fighting in Sudan erupted in April 2023 between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Tens of thousands of people have been killed and the country now faces the world's largest displacement crisis, according to the United Nations. Both sides have been accused of war crimes, including deliberately targeting civilians and blocking humanitarian aid. A UN-backed assessment last week found that fighting has led to famine in Zamzam camp, with warnings that Sudan within months could see starvation exceeding that in Ethiopia in the 1980s. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) review, which is used by UN agencies, found that "famine is ongoing in July 2024 in Zamzam camp". "The main drivers of famine in Zamzam camp are conflict and lack of humanitarian access," it said. With the country plunged into what the UN called "one of the worst humanitarian crises in recent memory", the vast majority of relief operations have been suspended due to the violence. The International Criminal Court prosecutor said Monday that he hopes to seek arrest warrants soon for some of those responsible for the "nightmare" experienced by the population of Darfur. CORRECTED: US military completes withdrawal from final base in Niger Niamey, Niger, Aug 5 (AFP) Aug 05, 2024 The US military withdrew from a final base in jihadist-hit Niger on Monday, more than a year after coup leaders in the African country demanded its troops leave. After nearly 800 soldiers pulled out of a base in the capital Niamey in early July, around 200 had remained at the large Agadez base in northern Niger. The "withdrawal of US forces and assets from Air Base 201 in Agadez is complete," the Pentagon said in a joint statement with Niger's defence ministry. "This effort... will continue between US and Nigerien armed forces over the coming weeks to ensure the full withdrawal is complete as planned," it added. Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh told reporters that around "less than two dozen folks" were still on the ground in Niger. The remaining personnel are at the US embassy and are performing "administrative work in preparing for the completion of the withdrawal", she said. Niger's Air-Info news site confirmed the departure of the last American forces from Agadez. It said officers from both countries attended a handover ceremony, which ended with the taking-off of the last US army plane. US Major General Kenneth Ekman, who is coordinating the withdrawal from Niger, had previously announced the US troop exit would be completed in early August, ahead of the mid-September deadline. - 'Sovereignty' - Niger in recent years has been a lynchpin in US and French strategy to combat jihadists in West Africa, especially since the military seized power in Mali and Burkina Faso, becoming hostile to Western armed forces. The July 26, 2023 coup in Niger -- which overthrew the democratically elected president Mohamed Bazoum -- has seen the new regime move closer to its two neighbours and force out the French and US military from the country. The three military-led nations have since formed the Confederation of Sahel States (AES). The US withdrawal from Niger kicked off in May, two months after the government said it was ending a military cooperation agreement with Washington, claiming the presence of US soldiers was now "illegal". Ekman has said the United States will continue to work with other nations, such as Ivory Coast who face a violent extremist threat. Niger's regime under General Abdourahamane Tiani is reviewing its foreign policy while declaring it is on a march to "sovereignty". It has tilted notably towards Russia -- as has Burkina and Mali -- which has sent instructors and military equipment this year. Niger has also tightened relations with Turkey and Iran. For around a decade, Niger has been grappling with bloody violence by armed groups linked to Islamic State and Al-Qaeda. It also has to contend with violence in its southeast from Boko Haram and Islamic State's West African offshoot. According to Acled, which tracks conflict, jihadists have killed some 1,500 civilians and soldiers in the past year in Niger, compared with 650 in the year to July 2023. Colombia resumes military operations against ELN rebels Bogota, Aug 5 (AFP) Aug 05, 2024 Colombia's armed forces have resumed military operations against the rebel National Liberation Army (ELN) after a ceasefire deal expired, the defense minister said Monday. The truce between the guerrilla group and the Colombian government ended on Saturday, and it was not clear if it would be renewed, despite the two parties being in peace talks. "Offensive operations are resumed. And that is the order of the general commander of the Armed Forces," Defense Minister Ivan Velasquez said in a statement. After the ceasefire ended, the ELN's peace delegation accused the Colombian government of non-compliance with agreements signed during negotiations since the end of 2022. It said it would consider the renewal of a truce if the government removed the ELN from its official register of organized armed groups. "This is a matter that can always be the subject of discussion," Velasquez said when asked about ELN's demands. Gustavo Petro, Colombia's first-ever leftist president, who was elected in 2022, has sought to put an end to six decades of fighting by negotiating with guerrillas and some powerful gangs. But experts believe the attempt to disarm the roughly 5,800 ELN members is moving too slowly. The ELN, a Marxist guerrilla group inspired by the Cuban revolution, has taken part in failed negotiations with Colombia's last five governments. The much larger Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC, signed a peace agreement with the government in 2016. Six decades of armed conflict in Colombia have left 9.5 million people displaced, murdered, kidnapped or missing. vd/das/cjc/jgc/dw Ultra-Orthodox anti-draft protesters storm Israeli army base Jerusalem, Aug 6 (AFP) Aug 06, 2024 Dozens of ultra-Orthodox Jews protesting against compulsory military service for their community broke into an army base near Tel Aviv on Tuesday, the military said in a statement. "Over the past few hours, dozens of protestors attempted to break into the Tel Hashomer base during protests that took place outside of the base", a military statement said. The demonstrators "managed to infiltrate the Adjutant Corps Monument adjacent to the base fence" before being cleared out by police, it said. Tel Hashomer, located east of Tel Aviv, is the largest base for newly enlisted army recruits in Israel. The Israeli military said it "condemns this violent behaviour and insists that the protestors be brought to justice". "The enlistment of ultra-orthodox citizens is an operational necessity and is being conducted in accordance with the law", and the military is "determined" to press ahead with it, the statement added Historically exempt from compulsory military service, ultra-Orthodox seminary students are being called up while Israel's war in Gaza and a potential conflict with Hezbollah on the northern border sap resources and fuel resentment of those who do not have to serve. The call-ups follow a ruling in June by Israel's top court that exemptions from mandatory service for ultra-Orthodox men were discriminatory and that the state must draft them. Under longstanding arrangements, ultra-Orthodox Jews, who make up about 13 percent of Israel's 10 million population, had not been subject to the draft. Members of the largely insular community, where young men of recruitment age typically study in Jewish seminaries, have taken to the streets to protest conscription, leading to clashes with police in Jerusalem. Ultra-Orthodox men had already clashed with police outside Tal Hashomer on Monday before being dispersed or physically carried away. In July, one leading ultra-Orthodox rabbi, Dov Lando, urged Yeshiva students to ignore the summons orders, writing in the Yated Neeman daily that it was "war" against religious Jews. NATO warns Kosovo over moves to open bridge in divided city Pristina, Aug 6 (AFP) Aug 06, 2024 NATO forces in Kosovo on Tuesday warned government authorities against trying to reopen a bridge in the divided city of Mitrovica that has long separated Serbs and ethnic Albanians in the restive northern area. The NATO-led peacekeeping force KFOR maintains a strong presence in Mitrovica and patrols the area around the bridge over the Ibar River that has been closed to car traffic for years. The bridge that divides the communities has been the scene of frequent clashes following the 1999 war between Serbian forces and Kosovo's ethnic Albanian majority, which left 13,000 dead and ended after a NATO bombing campaign led by Washington. KFOR said it would "not hesitate" to intervene if Kosovo authorities moved ahead with potential plans to open the bridge. "KFOR units maintain a permanent, fixed presence on the bridge and continue to conduct regular patrols in the surrounding areas to ensure stability and security, for the benefit of all local communities," read a KFOR statement. "We will not hesitate to tackle any development that may affect the security environment and regional stability, in full respect of our UN mandate." KFOR's reaction followed a recent visit to the bridge by members of the ethnic-Albanian-dominated governing cabinet, who were overseeing "an imminent technical inspection" of the area. Kosovo government officials have been increasingly calling for the opening of the bridge, with Prime Minister Albin Kurti saying last week the crossing "must be opened" during a meeting with Western ambassadors. The KFOR statement comes just a day after Kosovo authorities raided at least nine Serbian post office branches near its northern border with Serbia. Serbian post offices in Kosovo have long used to receive funds, including pensions, and transfer money to financial institutions in Serbia. Tensions between Serbia and Kosovo have been simmering for months, following the introduction of a rule earlier this year that made the euro the only legal currency in Kosovo and effectively outlawed use of the Serbian dinar. The move -- which came after EU- and US-backed negotiations collapsed -- sparked anger in Belgrade, which continues to finance a parallel health, education and social security system for the Serbian minority in Kosovo. Animosity between Kosovo and Serbia has persisted since the war between Serbian forces and ethnic Albanian insurgents in the late 1990s. Kosovo later declared independence in 2008, a move that Serbia has refused to acknowledge. Russian nuclear delegation in Burkina to discuss mooted plant Abidjan, Aug 6 (AFP) Aug 06, 2024 A delegation from Russian nuclear giant Rosatom began a four-day stay Tuesday to Burkina Faso to discuss the construction of a power plant which could ramp up electrification in the western African state. The two countries's governments have forged close relations since a military regime headed by Captain Ibrahim Traore seized power in a September 2022 coup, and in October last year they signed an agreement for construction of a nuclear power plant. "The Rosatom delegation came to discuss technical aspects to lay down all necessary prerequisites to implement and begin construction of this plant," said Burkinabe Minister of Energy Yacouba Zabre Gouba. "We are pinning much hope on this visit which will allow us to get to grips with energy realities," said Gouba. "We will do everything possible to carry out the installation of the nuclear power plant as quickly as possible," said Rosatom chief engineer Alexander Renev, though he gave no date. The location of the facility will "take into account security" issues in a country racked by jihadist violence, said Renev, whose visit runs to Friday. At the end of 2020, only 22.5 percent of Burkina residents -- 67 percent in urban areas and just 5.3 percent in rural areas -- had access to electricity, according to figures from the African Development Bank. "We want to solve once and for all and on a long term basis the energy deficit that Burkina Faso is experiencing through the nuclear solution," said Gouba. The country of some 23 million imports much of its electricity from neighbouring Ivory Coast and Ghana, while producing some locally, mainly through hydroelectric or solar power. To date the African continent has just one nuclear plant, at Koeberg, near Cape Town in South Africa. Venezuela army vows 'absolute loyalty' to Maduro after opposition appeal Caracas, Aug 6 (AFP) Aug 06, 2024 Venezuela's military on Tuesday criticized an appeal by the opposition for the support of the armed forces amid the disputed reelection of President Nicolas Maduro, saying it was "desperate and seditious." Opposition leaders Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia and Maria Corina Machado on Monday appealed to the "conscience" of the military and police officers -- traditionally staunch allies of Maduro -- to "take the side of the people". They were met with a swift criminal probe from prosecutors investigating them for announcing an election winner other than Maduro, instigating disobedience, insurrection, and conspiracy. In a statement declaring "absolute loyalty" to Maduro, Defense Minister and army chief Vladimir Padrino said: "We strongly reject the desperate and seditious approaches" that "seek to undermine our unity and institutionality, but will never succeed." The opposition insists Gonzalez Urrutia was the rightful victor of the July 28 presidential election, which has plunged the oil-rich nation into political crisis. Multiple countries, including the United States and Argentina, have recognized Gonzalez Urrutia as the winner, while others, such as the European Union, have stopped short of doing so while calling for full publication of voting records. The National Electoral Council said Monday it had presented all these records to the Supreme Court for certification, as requested by Maduro -- but not publicly. The contested election sparked protests last week that left at least 11 civilians dead, according to rights groups, with more than 2,000 arrested. Maduro on Monday called for a boycott of the WhatsApp messaging platform, alleging that military, police and community leaders who support his re-election had received threats via the app. "I am going to delete my WhatsApp from my phone forever, little by little I will move my contacts to Telegram, to WeChat," said Maduro, who has also taken aim at TikTok and Instagram for promoting "division" and "hatred" among Venezuelans. Machado -- who was barred from running in the election and backed Gonzalez Urrutia -- on Tuesday denounced a "campaign of terror" in the country. "They want to intimidate us so that we do not communicate, because isolated we would be much weaker and that is not going to happen. Fear will not paralyze us and we will not leave the streets," Machado said in an audio message released on social media. European Union spokesman Peter Stano on Tuesday told Venezuela's government that a campaign of intimidation against the opposition "needs to stop". "We are calling on the authorities to stop this, this campaign of intimidation of the opposition and judicial intimidation," he said. Israel army confirms death of last missing person from October 7 attack Jerusalem, Aug 6 (AFP) Aug 06, 2024 The Israeli military confirmed on Tuesday that Bilha Yinon, the last person listed as missing from the October 7 Hamas attack, was killed by militants that day. "Today, IDF (Israel army) representatives officially informed the family of Bilha Yinon that she is no longer alive," the military said in a statement. The Israeli military and investigators had carried out an extensive search for her, the statement said. "As part of this effort, evidence was discovered in the area of Yinon's house that, after complex testing, enabled the verification of her identity," it said. Based on forensic evidence, Israeli experts determined that she was killed on October 7, the military added. Hamas militants attacked southern Israeli communities on that day, resulting in the death of 1,198 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Militants also seized 251 people, 111 of whom are still held captive in Gaza, including 39 the military says are dead. Israel's retaliatory military campaign in Gaza has so far killed at least 39,653 people, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory, which does not provide details on civilian and militant deaths. Russia says deployed aviation, artillery to repel Ukrainian border attack Moscow, Aug 6 (AFP) Aug 06, 2024 Russia said Tuesday it deployed air and artillery firepower to try to quash an armed Ukrainian border incursion after pro-Kyiv fighters stormed across the border with tanks and armoured vehicles. Moscow's defence ministry said it had rushed its own troops and aviation units to the border in southwestern Kursk region after a morning raid by Ukrainian units -- the latest such cross-border attack throughout the conflict. "Today the enemy made another attempt to break through into the territory of the Kursk region," Russia's defence ministry said in a statement on Tuesday evening. "The enemy is being hit with artillery fire, strikes by army aviation units and attack drones," it added. In a statement on its official Telegram channel at around 18:20 in Moscow (1520 GMT), the ministry initially said it had pushed the Ukrainian fighters out of Russian territory and that fighting inside Russia was over. But it later edited that post, removing that claim and changing the wording to imply fighting was ongoing. Earlier in the day Moscow despatched reserve forces to the border zone to defend against a Ukrainian group it said consisted of around 300 troops, 11 tanks and more than 20 armoured combat vehicles. It published videos purporting to show Ukrainian tanks being hit from the air and said it had inflicted significant damage. Footage on social media had earlier claimed to show Russian warplanes flying at low-altitude over the Kursk region as they battled to put down the attack. The Russian governor of the region said three people had been killed throughout the day -- a woman in the attempted border incursion and two people whose vehicles were hit in separate drone attacks. Several others were injured, including two children when a Ukrainian drone dropped an explosive device, governor Alexei Smirnov said. In a video message to residents on Tuesday evening, Smirnov said the situation was "tense" but "under the control" of Russian forces. "The situation in the border area continues to be tense. The Russian defence ministry and border guards are working. Please remain calm," he said. - 'Cynical shelling' - The Kursk region sits just across from Ukraine's northeastern Sumy region. Ukraine did not comment on the reports but the head of the Sumy region military administration, Oleksiy Drozdenko, told residents to pay attention to air raid alerts. Sumy regional authorities also said Ukrainian forces had shot down a Russian helicopter. Images on social media showed what independent military analysts said looked like a downed Russian KA-52 attack helicopter. Ukrainian forces said there was "cynical shelling" of border settlements in the Sumy and neighbouring Chernigiv regions. Combatants from Ukraine have made several brief incursions into Russia since the beginning of the conflict, including by units of Russians fighting in support of Kyiv -- the Russian Volunteer Corps and the Freedom of Russia Legion. The latest attack comes almost three months after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a major new offensive into northeastern Ukraine, a move he said was to create a security buffer to protect Russian border regions from shelling and aerial attacks. That offensive was focused on Ukraine's Kharkiv region, to the southeast of the Sumy region, from where Tuesday's cross-border raid was mounted. - Village seized - Russian authorities also said Tuesday that Ukrainian "saboteurs" had attempted a landing by sea on the Russian-held Tendra Spit in southern Ukraine. "According to preliminary information, 12 high-speed craft were used -- eight of them with the saboteurs and four with fire support," Moscow-appointed governor Vladimir Saldo said on social media. "Russian marines opened fire as the boats were approaching the Tendra Spit. Three boats were destroyed with their crews and sank. The others turned back," Saldo said. Meanwhile, Russia's defence ministry said its forces had captured another village in eastern Ukraine, the latest in a series of gradual advances in recent weeks. Russian units "liberated the settlement of Timofeevka," it said on social media, using the Russian name for the village, which is known as Timofiyivka in Ukrainian. Earlier in the day, the head of Russia's General Staff, Valery Gerasimov, had visited troop positions in occupied parts of Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, the defence ministry said. The general "heard reports from the commanders of units ... summed up his conclusions and set tasks for future actions", the ministry said, posting video of Gerasimov meeting soldiers in underground locations. * FIRST NAME * LAST NAME * EMAIL Your email address * PASSWORD Must be at least 6 characters, include an upper and lower case character and a number Show * YEAR OF BIRTH You must be at least 18 years old to create an account 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 1983 1982 1981 1980 1979 1978 1977 1976 1975 1974 1973 1972 1971 1970 1969 1968 1967 1966 1965 1964 1963 1962 1961 1960 1959 1958 1957 1956 1955 1954 1953 1952 1951 1950 1949 1948 1947 1946 1945 1944 1943 1942 1941 1940 1939 1938 1937 1936 1935 1934 1933 1932 1931 1930 1929 1928 1927 1926 1925 1924 1923 1922 1921 1920 1919 1918 1917 1916 1915 1914 1913 1912 1911 1910 1909 1908 1907 1906 * Required fields I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from Evening Standard. Read our privacy notice CREATE ACCOUNT I'LL TRY LATER Already have an account? SIGN IN By clicking Create Account you confirm that your data has been entered correctly and you have read and agree to our Terms of use , Cookie policy and Privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Pressed on how Twitter or other social media platforms could be stopped more generally from spreading misinformation, Ms Alexander stressed: Some of the social media platforms have taken quite welcome action in some of the quite robust automated responses that they got to taking down some of this false information. The probe by French diplomat Catherine Colonna, which began in February and ended with a report in April, looked at allegations of serious neutrality breaches at UNRWA, namely allegations made by the government of Israel in 2024 that some agency staff participated in the attacks. I have today written to religious leaders to give them my absolute assurance that I will do everything possible to support them at this difficult time. I know that the Chief Constable is aware of their concerns and has already taken steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all Scotlands communities. He said: We do need to re-look at how the benefits of our economy are shared right across everyone in need, and everyone in the country needs to gain from being one of the seven richest countries on Earth. Mr Zazai, who came to the UK from Afghanistan in the 1990s, added: As a former refugee this is not my experience of people across the UK. For the most part Ive been welcomed and made to feel safe and at home here. Casa Avramide in eastern county of Tulcea is hosting, starting Tuesday evening, the People and Deltas photo exhibition signed by Dragos Lumpan, the 50 snapshots captured by the artist presenting inhabitants of three wetlands in Romania, Spain and Turkey. The event organized within the homonymous project financially supported by the National Cultural Fund Administration (AFCN) will continue on Wednesday, August 7, on the Danube embankment in the village of Mahmudia with the presentation of other snapshots and will arrive at the House of Culture in the village of Sfantu Gheorghe, on August 9, at the Cultural Center in the village of Chilia Veche, on August 11, at the Old School in the city of Sulina, on August 14, and at the Ivan Patzaichin Museum, on August 17. "I prefer to take pictures of people. The Delta is not very populated, but still there are about 10,000 people. I think every once in a while they deserve more attention, or at least a little attention, more than the anything left from the birds, more than the support to give me a fried fish or a fish borsch," declared Dragos Lumpan, during the opening in Tulcea. The exhibition hosted until the end of this month by Casa Avramide presents people from the Danube Delta, Romania, the Ebru Delta, Spain, and the Kizilirmak Delta, Turkey, snapshots taken last year and this year. "The photos from the exhibitions in Tulcea county vary a little, but the core is the same. The website already has interviews with people from the Danube Delta, and in the fall there will be interviews with people from Spain and Turkey. At the end of the fall, there will be more photos on site from the three deltas," said Dragos Lumpan. As part of the project financed by AFCN, the artist took almost 200,000 photos, and in the interviews he had conducted, the inhabitants of the deltas present their opinions about their lives. Photographer and film director, Dragos Lumpan is the author of several photo albums appreciated by specialized critics and is a member of the Union of Visual Artists, the Union of Cinematographers of Romania and the Association of Photographic Artists. Research minister Bogdan Ivan and Economy minister Stefan Radu Oprea, who visited the Elie Carafoli National Institute for Aerospace Research (INCAS) on Monday, said that solutions have been found for building a drone prototype that will be "a genuine product of Romanian specialists, from creation, design and production". "The Romanian drone project is moving forward! Today, together with the Minister of Economy,Stefan Radu Oprea, we went to INCAS - the Elie Carafoli National Institute for Aerospace Research and Development, which has been managing leading research projects in aerospace sciences in Romania for over 75 years. Together we have found solutions for the MCID and the Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Tourism to build a prototype for the Romanian drone, a genuine, integral product of Romanian specialists, from creation, design and production," minister Ivan wrote on Facebook. He pointed out that the construction of the drone will use optoelectronic devices designed by Romanians and innovative Romanian computer systems, "all generated by the brilliant minds of Romanian researchers". In his turn, the minister of Economy, Stefan Radu Oprea, said on the same social networking page that INCAS has already developed projects for drone systems. "I have seen studies, prototypes, equipment and functional systems that give me the certainty that together with companies in the defence industry with private and state capital, with companies that are constantly innovating in the field of software, artificial intelligence, microelectronics or optoelectronics, the project for the industrialisation of Romanian drones can become a reality," Oprea added. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. Baku Drilling School, an internationally accredited training center, is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded a three-year contract with bp Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkey (AGT). As part of this contract, Baku Drilling School will provide training programs in Drilling Well Control and Immersive Simulator training, including Human Factor and Crew Resource Management. The primary objective of these programs is to equip both bp and its subcontractors' employees with the necessary knowledge and skills required to ensure safe and efficient drilling operations. This collaboration between Baku Drilling School and bp marks a significant milestone in the energy industry, highlighting a shared commitment to develop talent and excellence within the Caspian region. We are honored to have been selected by bp as the first local training school with International Accreditations to provide our specialized training programs, said Nariman Mustafayev, Director of Baku Drilling School. We are dedicated to upholding this trust and providing high-quality training services to the oil and gas industry." Baku Drilling School, established by SOCAR AQS, provides safety oriented, innovative, effective, and integrated training programs for Oil & Gas professionals in accordance with industry trends. It is the principal modern Drilling Training Center within the Caspian Region, equipped with the advanced multi-functional simulator (X1-platinum), delivering IWCF and IADC accredited training programs. Today, Baku Drilling School provides courses customized to clients requirements and is able to offer more than 60 training courses in various areas of the Oil & Gas industry. For more information about Baku Drilling School and its training programs, please visit www.bds.com.az. EQS-Ad-hoc: flatexDEGIRO AG / Key word(s): AGM/EGM/Legal Matter flatexDEGIRO AG: Filing of an action for annulment and positive declaratory judgement against a resolution of the Annual General Meeting on June 4, 2024 06-Aug-2024 / 16:01 CET/CEST Disclosure of an inside information acc. to Article 17 MAR of the Regulation (EU) No 596/2014, transmitted by EQS News - a service of EQS Group AG. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Frankfurt am Main, August 06, 2024 flatexDEGIRO AG: Filing of an action for annulment and positive declaratory judgement against a resolution of the Annual General Meeting on June 4, 2024 The Management Board of flatexDEGIRO AG ("Company") announces that with documents dated July 4, 2024, its shareholder GfBk Gesellschaft fur Borsenkommunikation mbH has filed an action for annulment and positive declaratory judgment with the Regional Court of Frankfurt am Main against the findings on agenda item 13 relating to the Annual General Meeting on June 4, 2024, resolution on the dismissal of a member of the Supervisory Board (Mr Martin Korbmacher) pursuant to Section 103 Stock Corporation Act (AktG). The action was served to the company today. The action is pending before the Regional Court of Frankfurt am Main, 5th Chamber for Commercial Matters, under file number 3-05 O 70/24. The company intends to defend itself against the lawsuit and will immediately publish a notice in the Federal Gazette in accordance with Section 246 (4) of the Stock Corporation Act (AktG). The other resolutions of the Company's Annual General Meeting on June 4, 2024, are not affected by this action - regardless of a possible outcome of the lawsuit. This action for annulment and positive declaratory judgement has no impact on the Company's opeRating business. Contact:Achim SchreckHead of IR & Corporate CommunicationsflatexDEGIRO AGOmniturm, Groe Gallusstr. 16-1860312 Frankfurt am Main, Germany+49 (0) 69 450001 1700achim.schreck@flatexdegiro.com A 3rd Infantry Division soldier watches as a small drone built in a drone-building class at Fort Stewart, Ga., flies over a small airfield just off the Army post on July 26, 2024. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes) HINESVILLE, Ga. The small, hand-held hexacopter drone is far different from the RQ-7B Shadow drones that Sgt. Nicholas Murphy has flown for the Army for nearly a decade. The biggest difference: Murphy built this one with his own hands. The sergeant, who flies drones with the 3rd Infantry Divisions 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, watched through dark sunglasses as he piloted his self-built drone along a tree line edging a private airfield in Hinesville, Ga., just outside of Fort Stewarts gates. It marked his second day of test-flying the small drone that he built in a first-of-its kind small unmanned aerial system building class hosted by Fort Stewarts Marne Innovation Center. Its super rewarding knowing that I built this, Murphy said July 26 about flying the hexacopter that he had spent the week putting together. I had never built [a drone]. Ive flown my fair share of them, but Ive never actually constructed it. So, this ones mine. I built it. I take a lot of pride in that. Army Sgt. Nicholas Murphy of the 3rd Infantry Divisions Combat Aviation Brigade tinkers with a hexacopter drone that he built on July 26, 2024, just before a test flight at a Hinesville, Ga., airfield just outside Fort Stewart. Murphy participated in a first-of-its-kind drone building class run by the divisions Marne Innovation Center at Fort Stewart. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes) Murphy was one of eight 3rd ID soldiers who participated in the class late last month, which was launched to give soldiers an opportunity to better understand the kind of technology that has been proving increasingly critical for use on modern battlefields. Small drones have become ubiquitous on front lines from eastern Ukraine to Gaza to Syria, where troops Americans, their allies and their enemies have used the widely available, cheap tech to gather intelligence on opposing forces, drop small munitions or test enemy defenses. The Army has spent recent years focused heavily on incorporating small drones into its formations, including front-line combat units, and studying the different ways they can be used in battle. The service has also worked extensively to improve its ability to find, track and destroy enemy small drones, which have proven hazardous to U.S. troops in places such as Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria. The drones that the soldiers built at Fort Stewart span nearly 5 feet and weigh about 10 pounds. They are powered by two batteries and two GPS units and carry a high-definition camera, which could be swapped for other payloads, including small munitions or parts to carry medical supplies or ammunition, said Henry Sullivan, the chief products officer for the Alexandria, Va.-based training firm Building Momentum, which led the class. When the five-day class started on a Monday, the soldiers arrived to find an array of boxes filled with parts and soldering equipment. Within a few days, the soldiers had taken those parts, soldered them together, wired them and mastered the software to fly them either by remote control or through autonomous programming. Sullivan said the class was designed for the soldiers to master quickly all of the ifs, ands and buts of their drones, whether they were previously familiar with unmanned systems or not. Army Spc. Adonis Sanchez prepares to fly a drone that he built during a small drone building class at Fort Stewart at a small airfield just off the Georgia Army post on July 26, 2024. The 3rd Infantry Division soldier was part of the inaugural drone building class run by the divisions Marne Innovation Center. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes) For the 3rd Infantry Division, the soldiers who took the class are now expected to serve as a cadre from which other soldiers in the unit can learn drone building, said Maj. Donovan Blatherwick, who has led the Marne Innovation Center for the last year. The center, located inside Fort Stewarts main post, offers soldiers on the base the abilities to pursue prototyping of innovations to make their lives easier or make their jobs better as well as training such as the drone-building course, he said. Blatherwick envisions a division with thousands of soldiers who know how to build the small drones and employ them on the battlefield. He has had the Marne Innovation Center focused on small drones and robotics in recent months as the Army shifts toward building such technology into its close combat forces. Theres an infinite number of things you can put on a drone to turn it into a tool and the same with robotics, too. So thats sort of where were headed, said Blatherwick, a Special Forces officer assigned to the 3rd IDs headquarters. The skys the limit as far as what you want to do with any of these capabilities. Sullivan said a complete understanding of drone structures would be helpful on the battlefield, where small damage to drones can leave them out of service for weeks. Instead of having to send a broken drone back to a manufacturer or at least a higher Army headquarters the soldiers could fix the drones themselves within a couple of hours. Army Pfc. Oscar Castro, left, and Henry Sullivan, the chief product officer with training firm Building Momentum, tinker with a hexacopter drone that Castro built just before a test flight at a Hinesville, Ga., airfield just outside Fort Stewart on July 26, 2024. Castro participated in a first-of-its-kind drone building class run by the divisions Marne Innovation Center at Fort Stewart. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes) He believes the soldiers who took the class, with the right equipment, could now fix the drones that they built and others even in an austere, remote combat outpost. Most small unmanned systems from hexacopters to quadcopters to small fixed-wing drones run on the same kinds of electronics, Sullivan said. So, if it does crash or break, well, theyve already built it so they know how to fix it. They actually know the parts they need to replace; they know the entire system from the build to the firmware for the flight controller to how the software works, he said. So, if a soldier on the ground was equipped with the tools and knows these things these soldiers learned this week they can come up with a good solution that can really make this experience work, even downrange. I think thats really, really powerful. For Murphy, he counts the ability to build a drone from scratch as a critical new skill, but he was not certain yet how he would apply it to his work flying much larger drones. The sergeant has spent some 700 hours flying the Shadow, including on a 2017 deployment in eastern Afghanistan. The Shadow is a nearly 500-pound drone with a 20-foot wingspan typically used for reconnaissance, surveillance, target acquisition and battle damage assessment. The Army is in the process of retiring the more than 20-year-old drone in favor of newer systems. Ive done stuff on a much larger scale as far as [unmanned aerial systems], so I wouldnt say its directly beneficial to what Ive done, he said. But I think it helps you understand the teamwork aspect of all of this, and how teams can use these small [drones]. Army Spc. Oria Attey prepares his drone for a test flight in Georgia at a Hinesville airfield on July 26, 2024. Attey of the 3rd Infantry Division participated in a first-of-its-kind drone building class run by the divisions Marne Innovation Center at Fort Stewart. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes) Army Spc. Malakhi Perry, however, believes understanding the ins and outs of small drones could be very beneficial to his job as an artillery forward observer. Perry, who serves with the 3rd IDs 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, said small drones such as the hexacopter that he built in the class could prove helpful in finding targets on the battlefield that forward observers might not be able to see directly. Being able to fix the drone in the field, he said, could be a game changer. Right now, its a long pipeline if one of our drones goes down, which means for an operation, I probably no longer have that capability, Perry said. A system like this, where we put it together, where we understand it completely its a quick fix and now my drones back up in the air. Perry believes he could fix most damage to his newly built drone within about 45 minutes. The Marne Innovation Center is also working on prefabricating parts for the drones with its 3D printers that could cut repair times down to 10 to 15 minutes in most cases, he said. Theres another advantage to understanding how the small drones work, Perry said. It could help soldiers better understand how enemy forces will use the drones and how to spot and defeat them one of the Armys highest priorities. I think this is going to be a huge advantage for what we can do as a force, Perry said. Understanding these drones, how to build them, now I can understand a little better how to counter them, too. And that could greatly improve what the force is able to do in these environments where drones are becoming the main fight. Army Col. Stephen Flanagan speaks to reporters Aug. 6, 2024, after taking command of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria in a ceremony at Tower Barracks in Grafenwoehr, Germany. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes) GRAFENWOEHR, Germany An experienced Special Forces commander with multiple combat tours of Iraq and Afghanistan took command Tuesday of a sprawling garrison in Bavaria that has provided extensive training to Ukrainian troops fighting Russia. Col. Stephen Flanagan took leadership of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria from Col. Kevin Poole during a ceremony on the Tower Barracks parade field. The garrison, home to the 7th Army Training Command, is spread among four locations: Grafenwoehr, Vilseck, Hohenfels and Garmisch. It includes the vast Grafenwoehr Training Area. Flanagan, a Massachusetts native, said in an interview after the ceremony that he would continue his predecessors efforts to improve infrastructure and processes such as vehicle registration. Funding is always a challenge, he said. But (well) work with the teams here to continue moving things forward, to continue to make life better for the units, the soldiers, the families. The Bronze Star recipient takes over at a fraught time in Europe. The war between Russia and Ukraine appears to have stalled, and Russian proxies have been accused of plotting attacks on U.S. bases and personnel in Germany. Two dual German-Russian nationals were arrested in April after German prosecutors accused them of surveilling the Army training area in Grafenwoehr, the news magazine Der Spiegel reported at the time. Outgoing U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria commander Col. Kevin Poole delivers remarks during a change of command ceremony at Tower Barracks in Grafenwoehr, Germany, on Aug. 6, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes) Members of the German and U.S. military communities in Bavaria turn out for a change of command ceremony at Tower Barracks in Grafenwoehr, Germany, on Aug. 6, 2024. Col. Stephen Flanagan assumed command of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria from Col. Kevin Poole. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes) German army black powder shooters fire a volley during a U.S. Army change of command ceremony at Tower Barracks in Grafenwoehr, Germany, on Aug. 6, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes) An Army honor guard stands at attention during a change of command ceremony at Tower Barracks in Grafenwoehr, Germany, on Aug. 6, 2024. Col. Stephen Flanagan assumed command of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria from Col. Kevin Poole. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes) Flanagan comes to the Bavaria garrison after completing an Army War College fellowship with the Fletcher School at Tufts University, his Army biography states. He is a Ranger school graduate and former airborne rifle platoon leader who was part of the task force that hunted down and captured deposed Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein, according to the biography. He also led a Special Forces detachment through two combat tours in Iraq, as well as in Israel and Mali. Poole had been in charge of the garrison since July 2022. A German speaker, he is perhaps best-known for his candid, off-the-cuff updates to the force on radio and social media. He was recognized Tuesday for supporting the training of Ukrainian troops and NATO allies, improving infrastructure and quality of life for soldiers and their families and helping to facilitate a billion-dollar training complex, which broke ground last year. U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Kenneth P. Ekman speaks to military members in front of a Welcome to Niamey sign depicting U.S. military vehicles at Air Base 101 in Niger, May 30, 2024. (Christopher Dyer/U.S. Air Force) The U.S. military on Monday withdrew from its base near Agadez, Niger, marking the end of a security relationship with this West African nation that has lasted more than two decades. At its peak, the mission included 1,100 service members split mostly between bases in Niamey, the capital, and outside Agadez. The withdrawal follows months of fruitless negotiations with Nigers military government, which seized power in a coup a year ago. It marks a strategic defeat for the United States, at a moment when the Islamist extremist threat in the region is growing and Russias influence is rising. Here are some of the key moments in the U.S. involvement in the region: 2002 In the wake of the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the Bush administration launched its war on terror, trying to stop terrorism at its roots. The Pan Sahel Initiative, launched in 2002, included training and equipping forces in Niger, Mali, Chad and Mauritania. The focus in the Sahel region, which stretches across the continent below the Sahara desert, was more related to what the United States identified as potential drivers of extremism including poor governance, vast spaces and poverty than existing threats. At the time, tourism was still a substantive driver of the economy in the region, with visitors flocking to Timbuktu in Mali and passing through Agadez on their way to tours of the Sahara. 2011 The United States was part of the NATO-led offensive that killed Libyan dictator Moammar Gaddafi, ultimately contributing to the collapse of the Libyan state and a flood of arms into the region. Experts say the chaos in the wake of Gaddafis death helped lay the groundwork for a new uprising by Tuareg nationalists, whose rebellions Gaddafi had in the past helped mediate. 2012 Mali, which for the previous two decades had been a model of democracy in the region and a top recipient of Western support, collapsed. Soldiers seized power in a coup in the capital, and Tuareg separatists and a variety of Islamist extremists, including groups linked to al-Qaeda, took control of vast swaths of the countrys north. The seizure of numerous cities including historic Timbuktu by militants who enforced an extreme version of Islamic law prompted an international outcry and intervention by the French military. 2013 Then-President Barack Obama sent a letter to Congress announcing that the Pentagon would deploy 40 troops to Niger, bringing the total number of American military personnel in Niger to about 100. Defense officials said the troops were deployed to open a drone base in Niamey that would focus on intelligence gathering, including to help the French forces operating in Mali, where it had decided not to deploy American soldiers. 2017 Four U.S. Special Forces troops, along with five Nigerien soldiers, were killed in an ambush by militants associated with an Islamic State affiliate. The ambush, which became known by the name of the village where it happened Tongo Tongo prompted inquiries by Congress and the Defense Department and triggered a backlash in Washington, where many lawmakers said they did not have a clear sense of the size or scope of the mission in Niger. It also sparked a political controversy, when the widow of one of the soldiers killed said that then-President Donald Trump appeared to forget her husbands name and said that the soldier knew what he was signing up for. Directives for U.S. troops changed after Tongo Tongo, Alan Van Saun, a company commander in a Special Forces battalion from summer 2017 to February 2018, previously told The Washington Post. U.S. soldiers had been patrolling with Nigerien soldiers on kill and capture missions, providing intelligence about armed groups as well as medical and logistical support to Nigerien troops. After the ambush, he said, they were largely constrained to providing support from the bases. 2019 The nine-square-mile Air Base 201, which cost more than $100 million to build, opened just outside Agadez, a city on the southern edge of the Sahara desert known as a hub for migration. U.S. officials said the base became vital for understanding the movements of extremists in North and Western Africa. Gen. Michael E. Langley, who heads U.S. military operations in Africa, warned in a previous interview that losing the base would be impactful for counterterrorism operations. If we cant see, we cant sense, he said. In Niger, the military was combating militants associated with Boko Haram and its offshoots around Lake Chad, and Jamaa Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) and Islamic State-Sahel in the region bordering Mali and Burkina Faso. July 2023 Nigerien military officers seized power in a coup detat, ousting the democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum. Within weeks, they had asked the 1,500 or so French troops that had been stationed in the country to leave. The United States paused security assistance, as required by U.S. law after a coup, and officials began negotiating to get Niger back on a democratic path. March 2024 In a late-night news conference, a spokesman for Nigers government the National Council for Safeguarding the Homeland - declared the American military presence illegal. Nigerien officials said that followed a meeting in which they said a top U.S. official was condescending and tried to dictate which countries Niger could partner with. The United States has disputed that characterization and said Niger was offered a choice, not an ultimatum. August 2024 The final 130 service members stationed at Air Base 201 loaded into four C-17s and flew out. American and Nigerien officials signed paperwork turning over the base, marking the official end to the U.S. mission in what had long been its top ally in the region. U.S., Iraqi, and French troops participate in an artillery exercise at al Asad Air Base in Iraq in December 2023. (Quince Lanfor/U.S. Army) WASHINGTON Several U.S. personnel were injured Monday in a rocket attack on a military base in Iraq, a defense official said. We can confirm that there was a suspected rocket attack today against U.S. and coalition forces at al Asad Air Base, Iraq, said the official who spoke on condition of anonymity. Initial indications are that several U.S. personnel were injured. Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment. Two Katyusha rockets were fired at the base in western Iraq, Reuters reported. The latest incident comes after Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Friday ordered additional warships and a fighter squadron to the Middle East to bolster defenses in the region. The decision to move U.S. forces came ahead of an anticipated Iranian attack in response to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week. Israel had pledged to kill Haniyeh and other Hamas leaders over the militant groups Oct. 7 surprise attack on southern Israel that sparked the war in Gaza. The strike came just after Haniyeh had attended the inauguration of Irans new president in Tehran and hours after Israel targeted a top commander for the Iran-backed Hezbollah in the Lebanese capital of Beirut. Austin ordered the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group, which is now deployed in the Middle East. Other assets include deploying additional land-based ballistic missile defenses and a fighter squadron to the region. U.S. bases in the region have been prone to attacks. After the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, Iran-linked groups launched some 175 rocket and drone strikes on U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria. Members of the Palestinian Joint Action Committee hold a rally and symbolic funeral for late Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Beirut on Aug. 2, 2024. (Anwar Amro, AFP/Getty Images/TNS) The United States and its allies worked to head off an Iranian attack on Israel and avert a wider regional war as concerns grew that a strike may come at any moment in retaliation for the killing of a top Hamas leader in Tehran. The Biden administration moved additional forces to the region, and Secretary of State Antony Blinken conferred with top officials from Qatar and Egypt the two countries helping lead negotiations for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas militants on Monday, according to State Department spokesman Matthew Miller. It is a critical moment, Blinken told reporters in brief comments Monday in Washington. We are engaged in intense diplomacy pretty much round the clock with a very simple message: All parties must refrain from escalation, all parties must take steps to ease tensions. The focus has been to prepare for and possibly blunt an attack by Iran, which has warned it will respond after blaming Israel for killing a top Hamas political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, in a government guest house in Tehran on July 31. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied responsibility for Haniyehs death, even as the countrys armed forces said another operation on Sunday killed a top Hamas commander, Jaber Aziz. The U.S. push was only one element of a broader effort by officials who sought to head off tit-for-tat escalation between Iran and Israel that could push the region into all-out war. Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi made a rare trip to Iran over the weekend, meeting Irans acting foreign minister, Ali Bagheri Kani. President Joe Biden also spoke with King Abdullah II of Jordan on Monday, according to the White House. Qatar, which has mediated between Iran and the U.S. in the past, has also been in contact with the Islamic Republic, according to a person with knowledge of the matter. In Israel, the patience of some is wearing thin after days of awaiting promised reprisals by Iran and its proxies. One top lawmaker even proposed preemption. It is beneath our dignity to sit fretting rather than to take the initiative, Yuli Edelstein, head of parliaments Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee and a senior member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus conservative Likud party, said in a speech. We know how to do that, and we should be doing that. For its part, Iran reaffirmed that it wants to avoid all-out war with Israel, while again vowing to retaliate. Reinforcing stability and security in the region will be achieved by punishing the aggressor and creating deterrence against Israel and its adventurism, a spokesperson for Irans foreign ministry told reporters on Monday in Tehran. The Islamic Republic doesnt want to escalate tensions but has the right to punish Israel under international law, he added. The surge in tensions, almost 10 months into the war in Hamas-ruled Gaza, has scared many foreign airlines from the skies of Israel and neighboring Lebanon, where Hezbollah holds sway. The Pentagon has beefed up its Middle East presence, including with missile-interceptor warships. The USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group is in the Gulf of Oman with an air wing that bristles with F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighter jets and other advanced aircraft. The carrier is accompanied by three destroyers capable of land attack and air defense the USS Daniel Inouye, USS Michael Murphy and USS Russell. Two additional missile defense destroyers, the USS Cole and USS Laboon, recently arrived in the Red Sea, according to a U.S. defense official who asked not to be identified discussing private information. A second U.S. defense official said the Air Force this week will deploy a squadron of stealthy F-22 Raptor fighters to the region. A squadron is comprised of between 16-24 jets. With tensions running high, a rocket attack on Iraqs Al Asad military base wounded several U.S. personnel, according to a spokesperson for the U.S. Defense Department. Israel says its forces are on hair-trigger alert to carry out defensive and offensive missions. Israel has activated a command bunker beneath the Jerusalem hills in anticipation of a major Iranian-orchestrated attack, an Israeli official said. The National Management Center, a bunker located under the government complex in Jerusalem with an access point in the citys western foothills, has been activated to enable decision-making in wartime, according to the official, who discussed the move on condition of anonymity. The U.S. is pressing Netanyahu to redouble efforts to reach a cease-fire deal with Hamas over their war in Gaza. The U.S. and Arab states believe an end to fighting in the Palestinian territory would calm the region. General Michael Kurilla, head of U.S. Central Command, which oversees American forces in the Middle East, was in Israel on Monday for talks. Kurilla held a joint situational assessment on security and strategic issues, as well as joint preparations in the region, according to the Israel Defense Forces. Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu visited Iran for talks with new President Masoud Pezeshkian and other officials on Monday. It was unclear whether Shoigu, regarded as one of Russian President Vladimir Putins closest allies, urged Tehran to restrain its response to Israel. Nasser Kanaani, the spokesperson for Irans foreign ministry, warned of consequences for any country supporting Israel, a message apparently aimed at the U.S. and its allies as they rally to defend the Jewish state. Israel is in a multifront war against Irans axis of evil, Netanyahu said on Sunday. We are striking every one of its arms with great force. We are prepared for any scenario both offensively and defensively. 2024 Bloomberg LP Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC Photo: Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. The Training and Educational Center of the Azerbaijan Army hosted a ceremony on the occasion of the end of the next Reserve Officer Training Course, Trend reports via the Defense Ministry of Azerbaijan. The ceremony commenced with commemorating the bright memory of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev and Shehids, who sacrificed their lives for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. The National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan was performed. Congratulations on the leadership of the Defense Ministry were conveyed to the graduates, and they were wished success in their future service. The graduating servicemen expressed their satisfaction with the conditions and the educational process. They pledged to apply the acquired knowledge and skills, justify the trust shown, and honorably bear the title of serviceman of the Azerbaijan Army. The ceremony ended with attaching an emblem to the symbolic stump and presenting certificates to the graduates. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Kamala Harris speaks at a campaign event in Atlanta on July 30, 2024. (Demetrius Freeman/The Washington Post) Vice President Kamala Harris formally secured the Democratic presidential nomination on Friday, culminating a long career and dramatic rise to become the nations first Black woman selected as a major partys nominee and capping one of the most tumultuous months in recent American political history. The virtual vote by nearly 4,000 Democratic delegates began at 9 a.m. on Thursday, and by a little after 1 p.m. on Friday, Harris had secured enough votes to win the nomination. Ultimately there was little suspense Harris was the only candidate who qualified for the roll call vote, and most of the delegates had already endorsed her but the formal ascent of the first woman of color to lead a presidential ticket marked a milestone for a nation long riven by racial and gender issues. I will officially accept your nomination next week, once the virtual voting period is closed, Harris said on a live stream as delegates continued to cast ballots. But already Im happy to know we have enough delegates to secure the nomination. The process officially continues through Monday, despite the foregone conclusion. Attention now shifts to whom Harris will pick as a running mate, a process that is expected to wrap up in the coming days before she and her vice presidential pick launch a nationwide campaign tour next week across seven battleground states. She has narrowed her search for a running mate to six finalists and is planning to conduct interviews with them this weekend, according to two people familiar with the process who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss confidential deliberations. Those finalists are Govs. Andy Beshear of Kentucky, J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania and Tim Walz of Minnesota, as well as Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, the people said. Representatives for Beshear, Buttigieg and Shapiro confirmed that those officials had canceled previously scheduled plans for this weekend. Harris, who was born in California to an Indian mother and Jamaican father, becomes just the second person of color in Americas nearly 250-year history to head a major presidential ticket, after Barack Obama did in 2008. If she prevails over Republican Donald Trump, she would be the nations first female and first Asian American president. The Democratic Party has also never before had a presidential nominee from the West, a 2019 analysis from FiveThirtyEight found. Parties typically nominate their ticket during their in-person convention, but Democrats were worried about ballot qualification deadlines in several states and decided instead to hold a virtual nomination before the Democratic National Convention later this month. Convention planners are preparing a symbolic roll call for prime-time television coverage at the gathering in Chicago, with representatives of each state offering their votes for Harris in a customized fashion. Harriss nomination finalizes an unprecedented move by a major political party to replace its presumptive nominee, one who was also the sitting president and had swept its primary contests, so late in the process. Some predicted that attempting such a switch would create chaos and resentment within the party, but Democrats relief and enthusiasm at Harris campaign events seem to defy those predictions. After President Joe Biden announced July 21 he was ending his bid for reelection, the party rapidly coalesced around Harris as the likely nominee. State parties endorsed her, along with top elected officials around the country. At the same time, Democratic leaders scrambled to create a nomination process that did not rely on state primary contests, all of which Biden had already won. The new process allowed anyone to run if they obtained 300 signatures from delegates supporting their bid, including no more than 50 from any single state. Harris was the only candidate to meet those qualifications. Her ability to rapidly win the backing of her party was a significant shift from her earlier standing, when many Democrats questioned her strength as a candidate and as a vice president. Her 2020 presidential bid got off to a strong start with big crowds and generational excitement but faltered amid organizational dysfunction and a candidate who, some Democrats felt, seemed to take positions based more on polls than convictions. Harris ultimately dropped out of the Democratic primary before a single vote was cast. But Bidens stumbling performance against Trump at their June 27 debate reshaped the landscape, setting off an agonizing weeks-long stretch for Democrats as the president battled many in his party who were urging him to exit the race amid concerns about his age. By the time Biden stepped aside, the relief among Democrats was palpable, and there were few options other than Harris. The rollout of her campaign, as she largely inherited an operation built by Biden, has resulted in renewed hope among Democrats who had grown despondent about their chances of defeating Trump. Biden said Friday he had spoken with Harris about her deliberations over picking a running mate, but when asked what qualities she should prioritize, he responded, Ill let her work that out. As the political frenzy built around Harris, Biden left the White House to spend the weekend at his home in Wilmington, Delaware. Harris also hired a battery of new senior campaign advisers this week, moving swiftly to replace Biden loyalists with other Democratic campaign veterans including leaders of Obamas presidential bids, according to people briefed on the campaign shifts who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal dynamics. David Plouffe, a top strategist on both of Obamas presidential campaigns, will join the Harris operation as senior adviser for strategy and the states, focused on winning the electoral college. Stephanie Cutter, who was deputy campaign manager for Obamas reelection campaign and has quietly been working in recent months with Harris, will be the new senior adviser for strategy messaging. Mitch Stewart, a grass-roots organizing strategist involved in both Obama wins, will become the senior adviser for battleground states. David Binder, who led Obamas public opinion research operation and previously worked for Harris, will expand his role on the Harris campaign to lead the opinion research operation. All of the new hires will report to campaign chair Jen OMalley Dillon, another veteran of Obamas two campaigns. She managed Bidens 2020 campaign and built his 2024 operation from the White House before moving to Wilmington this year. Trump held no public campaign events on Friday. The former president and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), plan to hold a rally Saturday at the Georgia State Convocation Center in Atlanta, the same venue where Harris held a boisterous campaign rally this week. As both sides adjust to the political reality of Harriss candidacy, a looming question is whether Trump will debate his new opponent, especially given the decisive impact of his debate against Biden. On Friday, Trump told Fox Business that he did not see the point of such a debate, since everybody knows me. That prompted Harriss campaign to accuse Trump of being too scared to debate. Donald Trump needs to man up. Hes got no problem spreading lies and hateful garbage at his rallies or in interviews with right-wing commentators, Harris campaign co-chair Cedric L. Richmond said in a statement. But hes apparently too scared to do it standing across the stage from the Vice President of the United States. The Harris campaign announced Friday it had raised $310 million in July, the biggest number so far in the 2024 campaign cycle and more than double Trumps take last month. More than $200 million of the haul came the week after Biden announced he was ending his reelection campaign. Officials of the Harris campaign also reported that, overall, they have raised $1 billion so far this cycle, the fastest a presidential campaign has hit that threshold. The Harris campaign says it has $377 million in cash on hand, while Trumps operation says it has $327 million. The figures provided by the campaigns cannot be confirmed until later this month, when the official financial disclosure forms are filed. Harris supporters cited the fundraising numbers to argue that she is generating excitement among groups that Biden struggled to energize. Two-thirds of the $310 million that Harris raised in July came from first-time donors and 60% came from women. And the campaign reported having 10 times the number of donors from Generation Z in July as in the previous month. Amy B. Wang and Maegan Vazquez contributed to this report. Judge John Hughes jailed him for six months, with another three months suspended A man left a threatening handwritten letter outside his neighbours apartment, telling her that she was dead, with a piece of human faeces on top of it. Matthias Newton (43), who had mental health issues, wrote a note that left the victim afraid and unable to sleep properly, a court heard. Judge John Hughes jailed him for six months, with another three months suspended. Newton, of New Priory Apartments, Donaghmede, was charged with threatening to kill or cause serious harm to the woman on April 20 or 21 last year. Dublin District Court heard on April 21, gardai received a report from the victim that she had found a threatening letter outside her door, with human faeces on top of it. The letter, which included the threat youre a dead c**t had been left there overnight by the neighbour living directly beneath her Newton. When gardai spoke to the accused he made admissions to leaving the letter there. He was arrested days later and brought to Coolock Garda Station, where he made full admissions when interviewed. A file was sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and he was charged. The court heard Newton had previous convictions for offences including assault and threatening to kill. He was diagnosed with schizophrenia and was getting ongoing treatment for his mental health, his lawyer said. The accused, who was in custody when he appeared in court, told the judge he owned the apartment and he had been living there for two years. His family had bought the property for him, he said. He said his home had been broken into and torn apart. He did not feel safe there and wanted to move out. Judge Hughes said he had heard evidence from the victim on an earlier date. Her enjoyment of her property had been significantly affected by what happened. She was now afraid to go home and needed a friend to walk with her. The victim was also afraid to have friends over to the apartment and had trouble sleeping, the judge said. He imposed a nine-month sentence, but with three months suspended for two years to foster rehabilitation. The accused is to remain under probation supervision after his release. He is to complete a psychological counselling course and have no contact by any means with the victim or her family. Newton was also charged with failing to appear in court on an earlier date. The judge gave him a concurrent three-month sentence for this offence. The deceased was a well-known figure to gardai as he had served several prison sentences after amassing over 70 criminal convictions including one for manslaughter almost 20 years ago A Dublin man who was found with serious injuries in an apartment in Lucan in January after having travelled there by taxi from Tallaght died from a stab wound to his stomach, an inquest has heard. Kevin Walsh (35) was pronounced dead at Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown in Dublin at around 6.45pm on January 7, 2024 where he had been brought by ambulance from the apartment in Shackleton Hall, Lucan, Co Dublin Gardai had been called to the apartment earlier that day by paramedics who were treating the victim for serious injuries after arriving at the property at around 3am. At the opening of an inquest into Mr Walshs death at Dublin City Coroners Court on Tuesday, the deceaseds sister, Lisa McCabe, gave evidence of formally identifying the body of her brother to gardai at CHB on January 7, 2024. Ms McCabe, who had been with Mr Walshs partner, Lauren Beresford, in the hospital, said she had learnt her brother had been admitted to CHB earlier that day and had undergone surgery. The coroner, Crona Gallagher, said the results of a postmortem on the body of the deceased had confirmed that he had died as a result of haemorrhage and shock from a stab wound to his abdomen. Inspector Niamh Buckley applied for a six-month adjournment of the inquest under Section 25 (1) of the Coroners Act on the basis that criminal proceedings in relation to Mr Walshs death were still being considered. Insp Buckley told the coroner that she hoped that a file on the Garda investigation would be forwarded to the DPP within the next 2-3 months. She also confirmed that no criminal charges have been initiated to date in relation to Mr Walshs death. Dr Gallagher granted the application and adjourned the inquest to February 4, 2025. The coroner also requested gardai to update the court if there was any development in relation to the case in the intervening period. Dr Gallagher offered her sympathy to relatives of Mr Walsh who attended the brief five-minute hearing and acknowledged it was a very difficult occasion for them. Im sure every day has been difficult since this tragic death, she added. Walsh, who was known by the nickname Stretch, was expected to survive after surgery to treat his wounds but his condition deteriorated rapidly over a number of hours. Investigating gardai believe Mr Walsh took a taxi from his family home Allenton Green, Tallaght to the apartment where he had been living in Lucan in the early hours of January 7 last. It was unclear at the time of his death where the deceased had incurred the fatal stab wound but gardai later believed he had been attacked somewhere in Tallaght before taxing a taxi to his apartment where he lived with his partner. Media reports in January revealed that Walsh had refused to disclose to ambulance personnel who had carried out the attack on him or where it had happened. In May, three people two females in their 40s and a male in his 30s were arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of Mr Walsh but were later released without charge. The deceased was a well-known figure to gardai as he had served several prison sentences after amassing over 70 criminal convictions including one for manslaughter almost 20 years ago for killing a man in a drunken fight when he was a teenager. He was 16 when he fatally assaulted a 20-year-old British national, James Burke, who had moved to live in Ireland shortly before his death, in a grassy area near the Liffey Valley shopping centre in west Dublin in September 2005. They had met earlier in the day in a chance encounter at The Square shopping centre in Tallaght. Mr Walsh had pleaded not guilty to murdering Mr Burke in a trial at the Central Criminal Court in 2006 which heard that the victims body had lain undiscovered for two days. Although he was acquitted of murder, he was sentenced to eight years in St Patricks Institution with the final five years suspended for the manslaughter of Mr Burke. Seven years later, Mr Walsh was sentenced to three and a half years in prison with the final two years suspended after pleading guilty to assault causing harm to a taxi driver and hijacking a taxi near his home in Tallaght in December 2012. In 2014, he received a seven-year sentence for possessing a pipe bomb as well as attempting to hijack another taxi. He had also been convicted of other offences including violent assault, possession of an explosive device, robbery, handling stolen property and road traffic offences. "As a family, we cannot begin to explain how utterly heartbroken the events of Thursday night have left us A Dublin-born dad who died after a car mounted the pavement and hit him as he sat outside a pub in the UK had to be identified by his friend, it has emerged. Aiden Perris was hailed as a "devoted husband, a proud father, a loving son" and a "true Irishman after he was killed on July 25. An inquest into the 47-year-olds death has heard that he was on the footpath outside the pub on Boldmere Road, Sutton Coldfield, when the incident took place at around 10.20pm. The popular dad, who worked as a driver, was fatally injured and had to be identified to police by his friend at the scene, Birmingham Coroner's Court was told. Aiden Perris and family (pic: GoFundMe) His family have described him as caring, funny and devoted. He had died after being struck by a car in front of Cask and Craft the inquest that opened yesterday was told. According to Birmingham Live, Assistant Coroner Ian Dreelan told the hearing Mr Perris was visually identified by a friend on scene before being formally identified by a police constable. The proceedings were adjourned as West Midlands Police continue to investigate. It has been reported that a woman had been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving before being released under investigation. Mr Dreelan commenced the hearing by referencing a statement made by Tracey Woods, coroners investigator, dated August 1, 2024. It confirms the deceased is Aiden Christopher Perris, a male of Streetly, West Midlands, Mr Dreelan said. "He was born September 8, 1976, in Dublin and died on July 25, 2024 at the location of a footpath outside the Cask and Craft public house, 56 Boldmere Road, Sutton Coldfield, making him 47-years-of-age at that time. "He was a driver, married. He was identified on July 25, 2024 visually to police at the scene by his friend. And formally identified by constable Jordan Henry." As the inquest was adjourned until the criminal proceedings are complete, he added: "The rationale for opening an inquest in this matter is that it involves a road traffic collision - on which note, I have been informed, West Midlands Police are investigating this matter and therefore, I adjourn it for a criminal investigation. "At an appropriate time, the coroner will decide whether it is necessary to resume an inquest once the criminal proceedings have taken their natural course. I offer my sincere condolences to the family for their loss at this time." Aiden Perriss family previously paid tribute to their husband and father, saying he will be remembered for the "caring, funny and selfless person" that he was. They said: "As a family, we cannot begin to explain how utterly heartbroken the events of Thursday night have left us. A tragedy that has taken our beloved Aiden from us, far too soon. Aiden was a devoted husband, a proud father, a loving son, brother, uncle and a dear friend to many. As a true Irishman, Aiden always lived his life to the fullest, creating unforgettable memories that we will cherish forever. He showed us the value of hard work and will be remembered for the caring, funny and selfless person that he was. Aiden was a family man whos wish would be for us to pull together and support each other during this time." A Birmingham city councillor later called for a road safety emergency to be declared after recent deaths on local roads, including that of Mr Perris. Majid Mahmood, the councils cabinet member for transport, said the council was extremely concerned about the issue in a letter addressed to Craig Guildford, the chief constable of West Midlands Police, on July 26. We continue to receive a growing stream of correspondence from residents, community groups, elected members and MPs, which evidences the high and growing levels of concern about this serious issue, Cllr Mahmood wrote. "In this context, we feel that a Road Safety Emergency must be declared and request the immediate standing up of a Gold Command to coordinate a multi-agency response, before we see even more deaths and serious injuries on our roads. It followed a police appeal after Mr Perriss death. We were called to the junction of Boldmere Road and Redacre Road in Sutton Coldfield, at around 10.20pm, a police spokesperson said. A man was treated at the scene but despite the best efforts of ambulance colleagues, he sadly died". A woman was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, they added. Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. Azerbaijani-Russian ties are an example for some neighboring states, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said while receiving the Secretary of the Security Council of Russia Sergei Shoigu, Trend reports. The head of state expressed satisfaction with the successful implementation of decisions made between the political leadership of the two countries, particularly the provisions of the Declaration on Allied Interaction between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation. President Ilham Aliyev described Azerbaijan-Russia relations as exemplary for some neighboring states, highlighting their importance as a key security factor in the South Caucasus and beyond. Judge Miriam Walsh gave her a two-month suspended sentence when she appeared in Dublin District Court. Edel Stirling was approached by the victim before the assault A woman who was arrested for slapping her ex-partner in the face while shouting abuse at him on the street has been spared jail. Edel Stirling (45) had been approached by the man in the city centre when she assaulted him, a court heard. Judge Miriam Walsh gave her a two-month suspended sentence when she appeared in Dublin District Court. Stirling, with an address at Camden Street Lower, pleaded guilty to assault and using threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour. The court heard gardai found the accused and a man fighting on Talbot Street on May 12 this year. Stirling was being aggressive and threatening to the man, saying f**k you, f**k off and pushing and slapping him. She was arrested under the Public Order Act and taken to Store Street garda station, where she was charged with assault. The court heard Stirling had 59 previous convictions, for offences including assault and public order breaches. There was a dispute between Stirling and the victim, who was her ex-partner, her lawyer said. He approached her on the day and attempted to chase her. To get away from him she gave him a slap, the lawyer said. Stirling had suffered a significant amount of trauma in her life. The accused, who was in custody when she appeared in court, had been on the waiting list for accommodation for a significant amount of time and was anxious to get out of Dublin. She cant go around shouting and screaming and telling people to f**k off and slapping them around the face, Judge Walsh said. Suspending the sentence for two years, the judge added: I wish her well. It was claimed she told the gardai that she "felt someone was following her." A MAN accused of sexual assault and false imprisonment of a woman, who told gardai she was held on the ground and bitten on her face and lips in south Dublin, has been refused bail. Seif Waleed Al Hin Dawi, 22, believed to be from Jordan, was initially charged with assault causing harm to the woman who suffered facial injuries on the night of May 23 last. He had been denied bail in the District Court and the causing harm attack allegation was later dropped. However, it was replaced with sexual assault and false imprisonment charges. He brought a fresh application for bail before Mr Justice Paul Burns at the High Court in Cloverhill. He said the accused had the presumption of innocence, but was a flight risk, and he refused bail. He noted the evidence of Detective Garda Dermot Haugh who opposed the defendant attempt to released with conditions pending trial. Detective Garda Haugh told Gillian Finane BL, for the State, that the accused and the woman did not know each other, the man had no ties to the State, and there were fears he would flee the jurisdiction. He alleged the woman, in her forties, reported that a male assaulted her after she got off a Luas tram at about 11.20 pm. It was claimed she told the gardai that she "felt someone was following her." She continued walking to her housing estate and contacted her husband because she felt uneasy about a male following her on foot." The court heard she phoned her husband and "glanced back to see she was definitely followed." It was claimed that he ran toward her, pushed her to the ground. She landed on her back and screamed, and the male allegedly attempted to bite her face and mouth, and attempted to force her legs apart. According to the detective, the woman told gardai the man screamed in a foreign language. and she attempted to defend herself by hitting and him with her phone while she was still on an live call with her husband. The garda told the court the woman kicked him and succeeded in getting away and ran home. She dialled 999 and immediately got into their car with her husband, and she allegedly kept the male in sight before he was arrested. The garda said the woman sustained a cut on her lip and was treated at St Vincent's Hospital for her facial injuries. It was alleged he had blood on his mouth and lips. The court heard claims the accused originally maintained he was from Syria and had come to Ireland two weeks to apply for international protection. However, gardai established he was from Jordan and arrived two weeks beforehand after flying from London to Belfast and entering the state undocumented. He had been staying in hostel in Dundrum. It was alleged a man who claimed to be the defendants brother told gardai they had disposed of their passports. The court heard Mr Hin Dawi claimed to gardai that the woman assaulted him first. Defence counsel Aisling Ginger put it to the garda that the accused would abide by strict terms, but the detective said that would not alleviate his concerns. The court he intended to apply for international protection and hoped to get a work permit. The Director of Public Prosecutions has directed trial on indictment in the Circuit Court. On July 6, gardai charged Mark Lee, 43, who is of no fixed abode with the murder of Mr Strok. A man charged with the murder of a Croatian national who died after he suffered severe head injuries in west Dublin has been released on bail. Carpenter Josip Strok, 31, who lived in central Dublin, was wounded at Grange View Way, Clondalkin, on March 30. His friend David Druzinec, 28, was allegedly attacked during the same incident. Mr Strok died from his injuries four days later, on April 3, in Tallaght Hospital. On July 6, gardai charged Mark Lee, 43, who is of no fixed abode with the murder of Mr Strok. He was remanded in custody following a court appearance on July 7, during which Detective Garda Linda Ryan stated that the accused made no reply when charged. The District Court cannot consider bail in a murder case, and he was granted conditional bail in the High Court in Cloverhill on July 25. The unemployed defendants bond was set at 200 but needed a 20,000 independent surety approved. He was ordered to obey a curfew, reside at an address in Lucan, sign on daily at a local garda station, be contactable on a mobile phone, surrender his passport, not leave the jurisdiction and have no contact with witnesses. Today, he returned to the High Court, where the bail conditions were temporarily altered with the State's consent. He will appear again in the District Court late to be served with a book of evidence and returned for trial. He was the third person charged in connection with the death of Mr Strok. In April, Connor Rafferty, 19, of Castlegrange Close, Clondalkin, and Anthony Delappe, 18, of Melrose Avenue, Clondalkin, were both charged at Ballyfermot Garda Station with the murder of Mr Strok and assault causing harm to Mr Druzinecon on March 30. They are on bail and due back in court in October. Sickening details relating to the rape heard in court included how he threatened the woman hed f**kin kill the baby as he choked her. Beauty salon owner turned vile rapist Thomas Kleinas posed in a sinister rabbit costume and warned: See you later tonight just months before he brutally raped a woman while she held an eight-month-old baby. The Sunday World today publishes the first pictures of disgraced Trim businessman Kleinas who on Thursday was jailed for 11 years for the rape he perpetrated on the woman on July 25, 2020. On Friday, workers at the salon that he ran in Trim declined to speak about their former manager. But sources in the town said no-one in the town had ever suspected that behind the well-groomed mask, Kleinas was a vicious sex predator. Sickening details relating to the rape heard in court included how he threatened the woman hed f**kin kill the baby as he choked her. Kleinas, of Victorine Abbey, Trim, Co. Meath, pleaded guilty to raping the woman, while a number of other sexual offences were taken into account. The victim described how Kleinas locked the front door of the house and told the woman he wanted to talk to her. Rapist Tomas Kleinas posed in a sinister rabbit costume They went to the bedroom and he began choking her while she was holding an eight-month-old baby in her arms. He told her hed f**kin kill the baby. She said she was losing consciousness, but he wouldnt stop. He told her to calm the baby down and stop it crying. When the baby was put to bed, he then demanded she strip naked. He then sexually assaulted and raped her. The baby woke up as he was hitting her and he said he hated her and the child. Another 12-year-old child was in the house at the time, the court heard. Kleinas took a knife and said that he wanted to smash her teeth in. She said her eye was sore from where he had hit her. The incident came to a halt because the womans uncle knocked on the front door and asked to come in for a cup of tea. Kleinas told the woman to lie down and he tied her limbs up and blindfolded her. He then raped her again while his eyes were still covered. Rapist Tomas Kleinas The next day the woman reported the incident to gardai and was brought to the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit where extensive bruising was found on her body which was consistent with the assaults and with being tied up. Kleinas told gardai, when interviewed, that the sex was consensual. A probation report stated Kleinas continues to dispute being violent and says he was the wronged party. He pleaded guilty but only at the eleventh hour, said Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring while imposing sentence on Wednesday. The victim was travelling to Ireland when she was notified of the plea. The court heard that the probation services said he is an unsuitable candidate. The judge said that Kleinas has shown little remorse and had come to the court at a very late stage to admit his actions where empathy towards his victim was minimal. While he is at a low risk of re-offending, the view of the Director of Public Prosecutions was that it was in the more serious category. The judge said a 15-year headline sentence was appropriate. She took account of his plea which meant the victim did not have to relive the events. She noted he only had minor convictions dating back to 2006. Justice Ring sentenced Kleinas to 13 years in prison and suspended the final two years on strict conditions. The court heard Kleinas came to Ireland in the early 2000s after the breakdown of his first marriage and worked initially in construction. His second wife died from illness, the court was told. It also heard he opened a successful beauty salon, employing a number of people and continues to do so to this day. Sources said gardai are aware of reports that a list of seven houses to be targeted in arson attacks is currently circulating among local gangsters One of the four properties of innocent families targeted in the recent spate of Newbridge arson attacks One of the four properties of innocent families targeted in the recent spate of Newbridge arson attacks One of the four properties of innocent families targeted in the recent spate of Newbridge arson attacks One of the four properties of innocent families targeted in the recent spate of Newbridge arson attacks Gardai are investigating if four arson attacks in a Leinster town are linked as detectives carry out a major investigation into sinister drug debt intimidation in the locality. Two completely innocent families have been burnt out of their homes in Newbridge, Co Kildare, while a vulnerable man has been left homeless after his apartment was badly damaged in an arson attack. Sources said gardai are aware of reports that a list of seven houses to be targeted in arson attacks is currently circulating among local gangsters, leading to major fear in the community. A gang from the Ronanstown area of west Dublin is suspected of flooding the town with coke and crack cocaine and putting major pressure on dealers that owe them money. One of the four properties of innocent families targeted in the recent spate of Newbridge arson attacks Like in all drug debt intimidation cases, it is the innocent family members who are suffering and that is what is happening here in Newbridge it is happening all over the country but it is highly unusual for four properties to be destroyed in a provincial town in such a short space of time, a senior source said. There have been no arrests but an active investigation is in place in relation to these incidents which gardai suspect as being linked to the drugs trade and associated debts. As what usually happens in these cases, the people who are targeted are actually good decent people who have no involvement in drugs at all, the source added. Our photos show all four badly damaged properties with the latest attack happening at Rosconnell Estate at 3am on Tuesday. There have been no injuries in the campaign of arson, which started when another innocent familys home was burnt out in the Moorefield park area of Newbridge at 1.20am on May 17. A house owned by an elderly woman linked to this family was then attacked at 5.20am on May 29 in the nearby Highfield estate. On July 5 last, shortly before midnight, an apartment inhabited by a local man who sources say was taken advantage by dangerous criminal elements was also set on fire in Eyre Street. One of the four properties of innocent families targeted in the recent spate of Newbridge arson attacks This individual is now living on the streets. He was the victim of what is known as cuckooing where a number of dealers took over his apartment and he had no control over their activities in the property, a source explained. The modus operandi of this arson attack was different than the other three, but it could have easily led to a fatality as an electrical box was set on fire and there are two other apartments in that particular complex, the source added. Many locals in the town, which has a population of around 23,000, are concerned about the spiralling situation. When contacted by the Sunday World, local Cllr Chris Pender of the Social Democrats said he could not comment on the background to the individual crimes. However, Cllr Pender said: In Newbridge, we have about one garda for every 576 people, which shows we urgently need more gardai right now, not later. "We need to crackdown on the sale and supply of drugs to protect our community. We also need more resources to tackle drug-related intimidation and violence and better services for those struggling with addiction. One of the four properties of innocent families targeted in the recent spate of Newbridge arson attacks But adding more police isnt enough. People need to feel safe, and that requires a broader approach to deal with the issues we face. This includes significant investment in youth work and early intervention programmes. The problems in Newbridge are complex. People often feel unsafe because of how the town looks. Derelict buildings, littered streets, and poor lighting all make the town feel unwelcoming and these are the responsibilities of our local authorities. This weeks attack comes after one of the towns most notorious drug-dealing criminals appeared again before Naas Circuit Court. Dylan Lennon (28) is not being investigated in relation to the four arson attacks but he has close links to both the alleged targets and perpetrators, according to sources. Lennon is awaiting sentence for threatening to burn down the houses of two women. The victims gave evidence against Lennon who threatened to shoot up or burn down their homes over their sons drug debts. The thug a main target for gardai in Kildare for years is due to be sentenced in October for demanding money with menaces and possessing drugs worth almost 100,000. During the case it was heard that one of the womens sons had since died from a suspected drugs overdose. Judge Martina Baxter praised the women for their bravery in coming forward to give evidence. Lennon had called to an address in Newbridge on January 8, 2022, demanding 2,600 from the addicts mother, saying: If she didnt pay out he would send persons down to smash up her house. Dealer Dylan Lennon In July that year, he was in a car that rammed a garda patrol, and when arrested with two co-defendants, the vehicle was found to contain more than 11,000 of drugs. A subsequent search of his address uncovered a kilo block of cocaine, and other drugs worth a total of 96,000. Then, on September 5, Lennon called to a separate address in Newbridge and demanded 10,000 from another innocent woman, telling her that if she didnt, men would come down and shoot up her house. At the time, he was also on bail after being caught with drugs in April 2021. One of the four properties of innocent families targeted in the recent spate of Newbridge arson attacks Prosecuting counsel said the court is obliged to sentence consecutively in such cases when offences are committed while on bail. This week, Lennons defence team argued in mitigation that legal precedents exist that allow the judge not to impose consecutive sentences. Judge Baxter adjourned the final sentencing until October. At a previous sentence hearing the two women who were threatened took to the stand to read victim impact statements. One said: The trauma hasnt left our family, and I dont think it ever willwe have been forced to live with fear and anxietyhis decision that day has took so much from me, and I fear hes part of my life forever. I havent let my kids out of my sight since, I drive them everywhere, and I cant even let them have sleepovers in case their friends might get hurt. The second woman whose targeted son later died from a suspected overdose said: I cant sleep without sleeping tablets, and my family is looking to re-locate. Im getting counselling once a week, and it had an awful effect on my two daughters who saw their mother threatened. Anyone close to Gary is under suspicion rightly or wrongly and thats why Murray was targeted. A 40,000 van belonging to leading Larne loyalist David Murray was torched by elements within South East Antrim UDA. Tensions within the organised crime gang have been rising in recent weeks as pressure over Brigadier Gary Fishers plans to quit Northern Ireland. David Murray is close to UDA Brigadier Gary Fisher It is understood there is growing unease at Fishers plans to skip the country and his intention to take his ill-gotten gains with him it is estimated he is worth upwards of 1 million thanks to SEAs lucrative drugs rackets. It has now emerged senior SEA figures have told Fisher they will not tolerate him flitting with a personal fortune. Murray, who was the brains behind the towering 200ft 11th night bonfire at Craigyhill in Larne, was targeted because he is said to be close to Fisher. Sources say members of the command structure in SEA are determined to trace Fishers money. Anyone close to Gary is under suspicion rightly or wrongly and thats why Murray was targeted. The torched van It is understood Fisher used a network of friendly companies and contacts to launder his drug money. As previously revealed Fisher is planning a new life outside Northern Ireland with Liverpool set to be his destination. Having returned as Brigadier he has been spending his time planning his ``escape. His intention to appoint long time side kick Clifford Irons as his successor has alienated many long standing SEA members. Irons was hauled in and grilled on the mysterious disappearance of terror charges he faced. Clifford Irons He was asked to explain the situation despite him being odds on to succeed outgoing Brigadier Gary Fisher in the hot seat. There is considerable unease around the apparent dropping of charges which involved alleged possession of a gun and ammunition among other UDA linked items. The convicted drug offender and mortgage fraudster was a UDA commander when guns loaded with hollowed-out bullets were seized by police investigating a loyalist paramilitary feud. Belfast High Court heard the guns and bullets were ready for immediate use. Despite a number of court hearings the criminal case against Iron disappeared. Irons knows where Fisher puts his money. He oversaw the drugs rackets in Carrick which were controlled in an iron grip by SEA. He knows where the money was sent how it was washed. Irons will also aware of who helped his boss hide his cash. Last weeks attack on Murray, who drives a 150,000 McClaren supercar, is a signal of heightening tensions. Residents at Churchill Road had a lucky escape when his customised van went up in flames outside a block of flats. The van was parked outside the home of a man employed by Murrays company MG Cleaning Services. Gary Fisher and William Duck McTaggart Fisher is desperate to escape the country before SEA hardman William `Duck McTaggart gets out of jail where he has come to the end of a sentence for possession of cocaine. He had been due for release in the new year but has been held back. He was expected to take over as Brigadier and take an iron grip on the organisations drug operations. According to sources he is furious behind bars. Fisher had hoped to be gone by the end of July to avoid confrontation with Duck but plans have been blocked by an SEA investigation into his money. Asif Merchant, 46, sought to recruit people in the United States to carry out the plot in retaliation for the US killing of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' top commander Qassem Soleimani in 2020 A Pakistani man with alleged ties to Iran has been charged in the United States in connection with a foiled plot to assassinate a US politician or government officials, the Justice Department said on Tuesday. Asif Merchant, 46, sought to recruit people in the United States to carry out the plot in retaliation for the US killing of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' top commander Qassem Soleimani in 2020, according to a criminal complaint. FBI investigators believe that former President Donald Trump, who approved the drone strike on Soleimani, and other current and former US government officials were the intended targets of the plot, CNN reported, citing a US official. Merchant, who prosecutors allege spent time in Iran before travelling to the United States from Pakistan, was charged with murder for hire in federal court in New York's Brooklyn borough. A federal judge ordered him detained on July 17, according to court records. For years, the Justice Department has been working aggressively to counter Irans brazen and unrelenting efforts to retaliate against American public officials for the killing of Iranian General Soleimani," Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement. Court documents do not name the alleged targets of the plot. Merchant told a law enforcement informant that there would be "security all around" one target, according to the criminal complaint. A Justice Department spokesperson declined to comment further. Avraham Moskowitz, a lawyer for Merchant, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Trump's presidential campaign could not immediately be reached for comment. Trump, the Republican candidate in the November 5 presidential election, was wounded in an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania last month. Garland said on Tuesday that investigators have found no evidence that Merchant had any connection to the shooting, which officials have said was carried out by a lone 20-year-old gunman. Law enforcement thwarted Merchant's plan before any attack was carried out. An individual Merchant contacted in April to help assist with the plot reported his activities to law enforcement and became a confidential informant, according to the complaint. Merchant told the informant his plans also included stealing documents from one target and organizing protests in the United States, prosecutors allege. The city that is known for never sleeping is dealing with a surge in sex acts and exposure witnessed on the Big Apples streets New York City is enduring a rise in the number of complaints relating to public masturbation that has topped 50pc in the last year. The city that is known for never sleeping is dealing with a surge in sex acts and exposure witnessed on the Big Apples streets. According to New York Police Departments figures obtained by the New York Post, there were 378 complaints filed from the start of 2024 up to June 30, an increase of 251 in the same period last year. The data reveals that it is not just private body parts being exposed, with some offenders caught urinating. However, Greenwich Village resident Brian Maloney, who told the Post, Theres too much junk I dont want to see claims locals are exhausted by it. Were trying for help, were pleading with our elected (representatives) to help and basically getting ignored. According to the Post: Three weeks ago, a long-haired naked man fondled himself while sitting in a chair outside the Washington Square Diner in the pouring rain, according to footage Maloney shared. Days later, a woman in his subway car decided to parade in front of commuters in her birthday suit, he said. One community meeting saw outraged residents slam the NYPD over their alleged failure to respond to their complaints about one particular serial masturbator. Captain Joel Rosenthal, commanding officer of the First Precinct, told locals the offender would likely be quickly released even if he was arrested for public indecency. This is a desk appearance ticket and a non-bail eligible offence, so he will be out within two hours, he is quoted as saying. Carolyn D Gorman, a mental illness policy analyst at the Manhattan Institute, have blamed the increase on the citys broken mental-health system, for the increase of incidents. If we dont enforce laws so individuals arent in jails or prisons and theyre not receiving psychiatric treatment because the mental-health system deprioritises the mentally ill these people are out on the street, she said. Try taking an Emerald Star boat for a cruise and having the craic along the way Is there a limit of how many mid-life crises you can have? Ive done the classic car (which I still have), owned a motorbike (which I was told to sell), took a helicopter lesson (Im afraid of heights) and went on a weight-loss journey (losing a few stone although most of that has made a comeback). I feel another episode coming on and that is thanks to a long weekend onboard a six-berth cruiser on the river Shannon. Ive never considered a boat until now. Its not a fear of water, I love a blast on a jet ski on holidays, but it was a different pace that really wait for it floated my boat! The Emerald Star Elegance makes its way past McDermott Castle in Co Roscommon As the kids finished school we headed for Carrick-on-Shannon for a three-day cruise on the Shannon with Emerald Star. Its something that always appealed to me but trying to convince my better half that this trip would cure her fear of water was a tougher task than I thought. Arriving at the companys base in the Leitrim town, the kids were fitted with life jackets and we were shown to our floating home for the next 72 hours. We were booked on the six-berth Elegance cruiser from their comfort range of boats. At 13 metres long and four metres wide, its quite imposing when you first set eyes on it. Its well kitted out with three bedrooms, all with bathrooms, a kitchen, large lounge area and upper deck. Im slightly over six foot tall and got a few bumps heading in and out of the rooms, but it never felt cramped. Caolan and Erin enjoying the trip After a 20-minute induction from the very friendly and informative staff, which included going through all the controls on the boat and how to moor, including the various knots that were needed, we were given recommendations of routes and restaurant to visit along the way. I was supervised while manoeuvring the huge machine out of the dock and through a bridge to reverse it into another mooring point to see if I was worthy of captain status. Thankfully, I passed with flying colours and the instructor was impressed this was my first time at the helm. Having settled in, we decided to head north for a short 45-minute cruise to Leitrim village to get comfortable with our new mode of transport. The slow-paced journey was relaxing as we sat on the upper deck, meandering our way through the canals and taking in the beautiful scenery surrounding us. The numbered buoys along the route make sure you dont veer off course, but the kids loved reading the maps and instructing me which direction we needed to head. A bedroom Unlike the direct steering of a car, any small movement on the boats steering takes a few seconds to react, but once you get the hang of it, its so simple to manoeuvre. We only encountered one bridge on our way to Leitrim, but once you have the boat positioned well beforehand you just sail through. Reaching our destination at Leitrim Marina, the fear set in for my wife as she took the rear rope and my son made his way to the bow to prepare for mooring. It was a smaller marina to get into and all her fears dissipated when a friendly fellow captain took the rope from her and tied us up. First journey complete, I felt I deserved at least one stripe for making the destination without any drama. Leitrim is a quaint little village and only a short walk from the boat. We made our way to MJ OConnors bar for a few well deserved drinks or to settle the nerves for some. Its a beautiful pub along the canal, with mooring points for those who need a quick pit stop. The interior of the boat Tearing ourselves away from the pub was tough but with hungry kids we headed back to our home on the water and settled in for the night. With a few pizzas in the oven, we enjoyed a couple of hours playing cards and board games. There was a small TV on the boat, but the beauty of cruising is that the reception for both TV and internet isnt the best and it allows you to switch off from the world and just enjoy the peace and tranquillity cruising affords you. Waking up after a good nights sleep, we planned our next route over breakfast. With the kids eager to test their skills at the wheel, we ventured on a longer route toward Lough Key where we planned to stay the night. With a little morning drizzle, I took control inside the cabin, this time to see if my skills transferred from the top deck with 360 views to having less vision and window wipers to contend with. At first it felt a little awkward trying to manoeuvre through the small canals and under the bridge wed passed the night before but I felt I mastered it quite well. Thankfully, the drizzle had made way for a blue sky so we could make our way to the top deck to enjoy the open air and easier driving position. Caolan and Erin Keown take the wheel On our cruise to Lough Key we passed a few spots where you could moor up for lunch, but we wanted to spend our day in the forest with Boda Borg (escape rooms) and Zip It forest adventure to occupy the kids, but a Night & Day festival at Lough Key scuppered those plans. On the cruise to Lough Key we encountered the only lock between Carrick-on-Shannon and Lough Key and it was much easier than the scenario I had envisioned. A traffic light system operates and when we arrived it was red, so we moored up briefly waiting for the boats in the lock to make their way through. Once given the green light, we slowly made our way into the lock with the help of the friendly lock keeper, tied up and 20 minutes later we were on our way again. Arriving at the mouth of Lough Key, the calm waters of the canals made way for a more choppy experience. The boat moved a lot more in the waves and my wifes grip got tighter on the handrail. With a packed marina due to the boutique music festival, I had a more challenging task of getting the boat moored on the only available spot left, right on the edge of the marina where wind and waves tested my skills. But again, with help from a friendly fellow captain, we were able to throw him a rope which made mooring much easier. The overall feeling we got on our time on the boat was that cruising has a community feel to it, and there was always someone to help when you arrived at the mooring destinations. Having spent a couple of hours soaking up the sun and taking in the sights and sounds at Lough Key, we headed back to the boat to chill out and plan for the evening. Being on the outermost mooring point made the waves from the lough feel like you were out at sea and the sun was shining so any hopes of it becoming calmer were non-existent. Im a big fan of Chris ODowds Moone Boy series so wanted to visit Boyle on our three-day break. We decided to untie and head through the lough to Boyle Marina which was a short 25 minute cruise away. Upon arrival, it was clear wed made the right choice. The waters were as calm as a pond in a tranquil setting that can accommodate a dozen boats with a nice ten minute stroll into town. Its a lovely little town with friendly locals, none more so than in The Patricks Well pub where the atmosphere was electric as Roscommon took on Armagh in the All-Ireland. Unfortunately, the result didnt go their way but it didnt dampen their spirits as the fun and laughter continued for hours. With a beer buzz and bellies full, we made the short stroll back to the boat to enjoy a bottle of wine on the upper deck as the sun set. On our last day we cruised the peaceful canals on the way back to Carrick-on-Shannon, where we moored up for the night and enjoyed a few more drinks while traditional Irish musicians kept the crowds entertained. If you want to switch off and travel at a slow pace, then a cruise holiday on the Shannon is a great choice. Although my wife didnt find her sea legs, we are definitely going to do it again, this time with friends so she can enjoy being a passenger rather than a captains mate. FACTFILE: EMERALD STAR CRUISES Emerald Star is the No.1 provider of boating holidays in Europe. We travelled on an Emerald Star Elegance. Sleeping a maximum of six, the Elegance boasts three cabins, each fitted with single beds that convert to doubles. A five-night self-catered stay on board an Elegance in June, which sleeps up to six people, starting and ending at Emerald Stars base in Carrick-on-Shannon, costs from 2,639 per boat. No boating licence or experience necessary. This years season will end on October 31 and 2025 opens on March 22. See emeraldstar.ie Do you dare? Daragh came face to face with Saskia van Helsing at the launch in London last week Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines is the latest haunted house to be announced by Universal Studios Just when we thought Halloween Horror Nights couldnt get any freakier or scarier they go and unleash Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines as an all-new original haunted house. Featuring an all-female group of classic Universal Monsters (The Bride of Frankenstein, Draculas daughter Marya, the She-Wolf of London and the mummified Egyptian princess Anck-Su-Namun) will be scaring lucky guests from Friday, August 30 at Universal Orlando Resort. The new haunted house will put guests in the center of the ultimate battle between two unexpected alliances of classic female Universal Monsters. Guests will encounter Saskia Van Helsing, a new fearless huntress and daughter of revered Abraham Van Helsing, who killed Count Dracula by driving a stake through his heart and destroying his reign of terror. Saskia now faces Draculas daughter, Countess Marya, who arose from the dead to seek revenge for her father and destroy the Van Helsing bloodline. Daragh came face to face with Saskia van Helsing at the launch in London last week In addition to featuring the protagonist from the 1936 film Draculas Daughter, the house will also involve the She-Wolf from 1946s She-Wolf of London and Anck-Su-Namun from the 1932 film The Mummy. But this group of monsters is intercepted by Saskia and an unlikely ally, The Bride of Frankenstein (from 1935s masterpiece Bride of Frankenstein). According to Universal bosses, The terrifying adventure will take guests on a journey between the hunted and the hunters in a life and death battle with only one bloodline left to survive. A few days later (September 5) the experience will also kick off at Universal Studios Hollywood but in a cool twist of fate the house will actually be located in Sound Stage 12 on the studio back lot, the original filming location for such Universal horror movies as Dracula (1931), Frankenstein (1931) and Bride of Frankenstein (1935). The Hollywood version will also feature a score composed by Slash of Guns n Roses, marking his sixth season working with Halloween Horror Nights (the Orlando version will feature a score by Sara Barone). Other house themes announced for this season of Halloween Horror Nights so far include A Quiet Place, Insidious and Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. Russia supports the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Secretary of the Security Council of Russia Sergei Shoigu said this during a meeting with President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Trend reports. Sergei Shoigu commended the successful development of relations between the two countries in regional security, military-technical, transportation, and economic areas. He stated that there are very important issues on the agenda of bilateral cooperation, which have been successfully addressed. He highlighted the implementation of the North-South corridor as a prime example, noting that significant progress has been made on a trilateral basis regarding this project. That those who call themselves Irish patriots then socialised with a man suspected of multiple murders, including the killing of our loved ones, is sickening People taking part in an anti-Islamic protest outside Belfast City Hall at the weekend. Photo: PA Dublin far right activists who boasted about receiving a heroes welcome in Belfast after an anti-immigration protest on Saturday were hosted by a UDA man who was arrested in connection with the sectarian murders of five Catholics, it has emerged After businesses, including a cafe and supermarket owned by immigrants, were attacked in the aftermath of Saturdays protest, some of those who travelled from Dublin gathered in a Sandy Row bar. One if the loyalists they were socialising with was described as Suspect 4 in a Police Ombudsman report into the 1992 gun attack on Sean Grahams Bookmakers where five people, ranging in age from 15 to 66, were murdered. According to the Belfast Telegraph, a number of suspects, including the loyalist widely believed to have been the getaway driver, were identified by a Police Ombudsman investigation into the UDA unit responsible for the attack. The scene of the 1992 massacre Families of the victims have said theyve been sickened by the displays of racism and sectarianism on the Ormeau Road on Saturday. That these people joined together in an attempt to attack our neighbours and friends was shocking, and very upsetting for victims and survivors, the Belfast Telegraph has quoted them as saying. That those who call themselves Irish patriots then socialised with a man suspected of multiple murders, including the killing of our loved ones, is sickening. This is an unholy alliance formed through hate and other nefarious activities and they are not welcome and will find no support among our community, who have suffered enough. The PSNI have said theyre working with gardai to identify any suspects who crossed the Border to become involved in violence. Meanwhile, protestors with a Coolock Says No banner who showed up at an anti-immigration rally at Phoenix Park in Dublin yesterday were told to leave by others attending the demonstration. The gathering outside Garda headquarters on the North Road descended into chaos after a number of anti-migrant demonstrators showed up at the site carrying the banner. One man can be heard saying: That banner is not welcome here we are f***ing Irish, no loyalists here. Im tellin ya get out of here, get that f**king sign out of here, one man can be heard shouting in footage taken at the small protest outside of Garda HQ. As shouting between the groups continues, one voice can be heard saying: See that, that shouldn't be with a British flag it shouldnt" before someone appears to push the banner. The aftermath of rioting in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on Saturday Another man can be heard saying: The banner is not welcome here, Id rather you respect the people that organised it and put the banner away. Theres no loyalists here, the first man says. Theres no one getting called loyalists here, were f**king Irish, we dont forget our history. Taoiseach Simon Harris has also expressed his disgust at those flying the Irish Tricolour whilst attacking police and spouting racism. "This is repugnant to everything the Irish flag represents, he said. The string of violent incidents over the past few days began on Tuesday in Southport, after three girls were killed in a knife attack. The victims were Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine. Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, 17, from Lancashire, is accused of the attack, but false claims spread online that the suspect was an asylum seeker who had arrived in the UK by boat. Riot police were deployed in Sandy Row and Donegall Road areas Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Police deployed to the Sandy Row area of south Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Police deployed to the Sandy Row area of south Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) The DUPs Gordon Lyons has urged the disorder in Belfast to stop after police fired two Attenuating Energy Projectile (AEP) rounds as they came under attack during another night of disorder. Police confirmed on Tuesday morning that a 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour and remains in police custody. Meanwhile, a man in his 30s was taken to hospital after he was seriously assaulted in the Donegall Road and Oban Street area. Police said his attackers stamped on his head as members of the public attempted to shield him from further attack and said his condition in hospital remains serious and the attack is being treated as a hate crime. Riot police and a police drone were deployed in the Sandy Row and the Donegall Road areas as violence broke out following a weekend of disruption in the area. Speaking to BBC NI the Communities Minister said there is no justification for the continuing disruption. "I want to condemn it in the strongest possible terms and I also want to send my thoughts to those most affected, he said. "There is never any justification for this type of violent behaviour. There is no justification for attack on the police it needs to stop and it needs to stop straight away. More than 200 people were involved, as the PSNI were attacked with petrol bombs, bricks, and bottles by a crowd which included youths wearing masks. The large crowd also gathered outside the Islamic centre until the early hours of the morning. Some rioters had also attempted to re-torch a supermarket in Sandy Row. However, riot police extinguished the fire with water and fire extinguishers. Police sources revealed that two water cannons lent to the Garda have been sent to Belfast. They were not deployed last night, however they may be in operation from today should they be needed. 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 Challenged about whether he thought the levels of immigration in Northern Ireland were influencing the disorder over recent days, Mr Lyons added: Certainly there are additional pressures n public services in some parts of Northern Ireland. That doesn't mean there is any justification for violence. "If you have concerns and want to express those concerns there are legitimate peaceful and democratic ways in which you can do that. "What I don't think we should do is downplay how some people are feeling about this issue. When we try to dismiss the legitimate concerns of people it adds to the frustration many people feel. 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 Shortly before 10.30pm, the PSNI advised the public to avoid the Donegall Road and Sandy Row areas. In a statement today, the PSNI said: In a second night of rioting and disorder, mainly in the areas of Donegall Road and Sandy Row, police officers came under sustained attack over a number of hours with multiple petrol bombs, heavy masonry and bricks thrown in their direction. "Petrol was also poured over a police landrover and set alight, thankfully the occupants of the vehicle were not physically harmed and remained on duty. "Earlier in the evening, a protest and counter-protest involving approximately 40 people had formed in the area of Ormeau Avenue around 5pm. Officers attended to ensure an appropriate and proportionate policing response. A report was then made of criminal damage to a family home in the Pandora Street area with windows broken. A small group gathered at the junction of University Road/Bradbury Place before moving to Donegall Road. However, larger crowds gathered with some masked rioters mounting attacks on officers. During the course of the serious disorder, authorised officers discharged two Attenuating Energy Projectiles (AEPs) with one rioter struck on the hand. Attempts were also made to torch a supermarket which had been targeted on Saturday night. Officers were able to douse this small fire before it developed. A number of nearby roads were closed by police to ensure the safety of the public and local residents, and to enable officers to deal with the situation and disorder safely. All roads were subsequently reopened. 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 Temporary PSNI assistant chief constable Melanie Jones said: This disorder, violence and destruction has no place in Belfast or anywhere else across the streets of Northern Ireland. We are engaging with groups that have been affected by this disorder and we are gathering evidence, CCTV and other footage to progress criminal investigations. We are working at pace to identify offenders and make arrests. We are determined to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. Anyone who has information or who can help identify those responsible is asked to contact us on 101. Saturdays anti-immigration protest, which was met by a counter-demonstration at city hall, moved to the surrounding streets as some of those involved tried to make their way to the Belfast Islamic Centre in the south of the city, with businesses attacked and a cafe set alight. Three police officers were injured during the disorder and four members of the public reported that they were assaulted. Yesterday morning, four men appeared in court over their alleged roles in Saturdays unrest. All were denied bail. Yesterday evening, an anti-immigration protest at the Clayton Hotel in Belfast city centre ended with no reports of violence. The protest was set to begin at 5pm with only around 15 protesters arriving shortly before 6pm and they only stayed for around 20 minutes. More on the weekends disorder "Nothing left just ashes" - Businesses destroyed during night of racist disorder in south Belfast 'I'm closing forever': Business owners in Sandy Row leave after anti-immigration protests turn violent A 15-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour, while in a separate incident a man in his 50s was taken to hospital after he was seriously assaulted Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones pictured providing an update in relation to disorder in Belfast at Police HQ Knock Road Belfast. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press. A senior PSNI officer said she is in no doubt there is a paramilitary element to the disorder that has rocked Belfast in recent days. Violence flared after an anti-immigration protest in the city on Saturday. And Monday night saw riot police deployed again in the Sandy Row and Donegall Road area when further trouble broke out. A 15-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour, while in a separate incident a man in his 50s was taken to hospital after he was seriously assaulted in the Donegall Road and Oban Street area. At one stage rioters attempted to set a Sandy Row supermarket - which had already been burnt out during Saturdays disorder - alight for a second time. Speaking this afternoon, Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said: The scenes we have witnessed over the past few days have been horrendous. There has been violence, assaults, damage to property, arson, racist slurs used unashamedly on our streets. This is not who we are as a society and the majority of our citizens are rightly appalled by this behaviour. She added: I would also highlight the work that's ongoing to support those vulnerable and minority communities that have been particularly affected by these terrible events and disorder. We are working with those groups on a daily basis at pace to provide them with the support and reassurance and crime prevention advice that they need at this very difficult time. Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Asked about reports of paramilitaries being involved in the disorder, Ms Jones said: I have no doubt there is a paramilitary element to this, but I am not in a position to say that this is the main organiser or orchestrator of these events. However, we do keep an open mind to this and this will be part of our investigative strategy. Ms Jones said what happened on Monday night was different from Saturday. On Saturday, we saw mainly older, adult people who became involved in disorder, she said. Last night it was clear to us that there was a younger element, teenagers mainly, who were involved in the disorder, but there was an element of organisation and orchestration from what appeared to be older adults present at the scene. Watch: Cars burn during night of disorder in south Belfast Asked about those on social media organising rioting and spreading misinformation, the senior officer said: We have a widespread investigation ongoing, both to deal with what we've seen happen but also to identify who is responsible for orchestrating, organising and stirring up violence and disorder in the background. That is an active line of investigation. We continue to work with colleagues across the UK to make sure that we are picking up on anything that is relevant here from their investigations and their intelligence gathering. Gavin Vaughan scattered his friend Neale McCulloughs ashes during the voyage Neale McCullough (right) and Gavin Vaughan (red jacket) on the water with Gordon Patterson and David Eccles A man who lost his best friend to cancer before they could fulfil their dream of sailing around Ireland has just completed the 920-mile trip. Gavin Vaughan (65), a member of the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, scattered his friend Neale McCulloughs ashes during the voyage. They had planned to make the sailing together after they retired, but Neale was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer just after his 60th birthday and died six weeks later in February last year. Patricia Best, Wendy McCullough, Mike Vaughan, Nigel Kearney, Gavin Vaughan, Andrew Vaughan and Odile Vaughan Gavin decided to complete the trip in his friends memory while also raising money for the local pancreatic cancer charity Nipanc. Neale and I joined the yacht club at the same time in the 1980s and competed against each other, he said. Then I bought a bigger boat with my brother. Neale crewed with us and we went all out with it. Our children then started to sail and we did it together as families. Neale had a boat in the Mediterranean and we enjoyed holidays together sailing there. We were great friends and knew each others thoughts at any one time. We had a bucket list of places we wanted to sail to when we retired, and we both wanted to circumnavigate Ireland. After Neale died, I realised if I wanted to do these things, I needed to do them now and not wait. I decided to plan the journey around Ireland, do it for Neale and raise money for charity. Neales daughter helped me out with social media. Originally, I thought I could raise 2,000, so I am completely amazed and overwhelmed to have finished with just under 10,000. Wendy McCullough, granddaughter Darcy Diamond, daughters Megan and Zoe , and Gavin Vaughan Gavin set sail on Toucan, a Jeanneau SO 349, from Bangor Marina on June 30, following on a clockwise circuit of Ireland with Neales ashes on board, returning last Wednesday. Neales widow Wendy and children Zoe (32), Megan (25), Adam (30) and Roby (26) joined him at various points during the 31-day journey. Wendy said her husband would have loved to have been there. She added: Neale would have been overjoyed by what Gavin has done. We have a boat in Alicante, and he loved cruising in the Mediterranean. It was just two years ago he discussed sailing around Ireland, but life took over and he didnt get to do it in the end. The response and support from friends and so many people have blown our minds. I did a lap of Belfast Lough on a bicycle last year with friends from the yacht club, and we raised 3,000 for Nipanc. To add another 10,000 is just great. We just want to keep awareness going and maybe help someone else. Toucan arriving into Bangor Wendy said after Neale learned he had terminal cancer on New Years Eve in 2022, he got to sail his boat in Alicante during his final six weeks. Scattering his ashes along the Irish Coast during the circumnavigation was a moving moment for Wendy and her husbands best friend. She said: I couldnt get over how emotional it was. I hadnt expected it to be just so emotional. Neale always said not to put his ashes in Belfast Lough because it was so cold. We scattered some at Fastnet Rock in Cork. It was such a beautiful day. That area is not associated with good weather, but we had bright blue skies. It was really poignant. Gavin scattered the ashes at various places along the way which meant something to him or Neale. The ashes which were left, we put in a tin of Smithwicks, which Neale loved. Gavin brought us out in a rib when he got back on Wednesday, and we went out and scattered them, so he did make it all the way around Ireland after all. Gavin and Wendy also thanked everyone who had donated to the fundraising appeal. Nipanc works to improve the outcomes of people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer by increasing public understanding of the disease and its symptoms. Chairman Ivan McMinn MBE said: The money raised will be invested into research and supporting individuals and families facing a diagnosis of this devastating illness. Our heartfelt thanks to all in involved. You are making a difference. If you would like to donate to Gavins campaign, visit https://nipanc.enthuse.com/pf/gavin-vaughan Little did I think when I said good bye to you in Nashville I would never see you again Tributes have been paid to a dad-of-three who had been living in Cavan before he was tragically killed in a road traffic collision in Fermanagh over the weekend. Richard Mulholland, a father of three in his 50s, died following the incident on the Stragowna Road in Kinawley at around 10.10am on Sunday, August 4. As police continue their investigations into the collision, funeral details for Mr Mulholland have been published online. According to his notice on RIP.ie, the death has occurred of Richard Mulholland, of Drumbee, Kilnaleck, Co Cavan and formerly of Bellaghy, Co Derry following an accident. Predeceased by his parents JP and Dolores and his infant brother Enda, the notice states that Richard will be sadly missed by his daughter Erin (Noel) son's Conor (Ciara) and Culann, cherished grandchildren, Jack, Sean, Matthew and Harry, sisters Siobhan and Maria, brothers Michael and Adrian, aunts, uncles, sisters in law, brothers in law, nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and neighbours. Mr Mulholland will be reposing at his home on Tuesday and Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm, both evenings. Removal will take place on Thursday to St Patrick's Church, Kilnaleck arriving for Funeral Mass at 1pm with burial afterwards in St. Mary's Cemetery, Ballynarry. In the condolences book, one person has offered: Our deepest sympathies to Conor, Erin, Culann and all the Mulholland families on the very sad and tragic loss of Richard. May he Rest In Peace. Another added: Sincere sympathy.. on the sad, tragic death of Richard. Richard was a lovely person, met him on few occasions and Nashville, he will be sadly missed of all who knew him. Another message reads: Deepest sympathy on the death of Richard ,, my thoughts are with Sheila and the Richards family at this time. Little did I think when I said good bye to you in Nashville I would never see you again. According to the Irish News, Richard was well known in rallying circles over the years, and kept up his passion after he had moved to Co Cavan. Co Cavan Motor Club said: The Directors, Chairman and entire Committee are deeply saddened by the sudden and shock passing of one of our own former Club members. Richard Mulholland has done so much for the club over the years with an unassuming and unreserved manner, a gentleman always and right to the end. A rallying and car enthusiast our deepest condolences go to his children, brothers sisters and extended family. May Richards kind soul Rest In Peace. Police are appealing for information as their investigation into the collision continues. Inspector Cherith Adair from the PSNIs Collision Investigation Unit said: Our thoughts are with the family at this time and an investigation is now underway to establish the circumstances. There is a risk that the water supply in the vicinity may be vulnerable to contamination Wicklow County Council has issued a notice telling residents in Aughrim not to drink tap water, after a chemical spill was identified as the source of a serious ecological event that killed up to 2,000 fish. Last week, Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) announced that it was investigating an incident that occurred on the Aughrim River, where fish mortalities were observed in a 3km stretch of the watercourse in an area near Coats Bridge, with species of fish discovered dead including juvenile and adult Atlantic salmon, trout, and lamprey. In the aftermath of the shocking discovery, IFI stated it was not aware of the specific source of this harmful ecological event, confirming that water samples had been taken from the river to gather evidence. With concerns over impacts on public health running rife in the Aughrim community, Wicklow County Council recently issued an update for local representatives to disseminate, detailing how the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had identified the source, and that the resulting risk of contamination demanded a precautionary water notice for nearby residents. Wicklow County Council has been informed that a chemical spill occurred in the vicinity of Aughrim village near the Aughrim River, the statement read. As a result, there is a risk that the water supply in the vicinity may be vulnerable to contamination due to its close proximity to the Aughrim River. The EPA has made contact to say that the source of the pollution has been identified. Wicklow County Councils water pollution team have been liaising with the EPA, HSE and Inland Fisheries in the above regard. A non-use water notice has been issued to those consumers in the immediate vicinity that may be affected as a precautionary measure." The notice adds that the HSE propose to re-test the water supply this week. Love Island star Maura, who had been dating Chris Hemsworth's body double Bobby Holland Hanton until recently, was snapped with Pete outside the Broadwich Soho Hotel Maura Higgins has sparked rumours she is dating TOWIE's Pete Wicks after she was spotted kissing the well-known reality TV star in London at the weekend. Love Island star Maura, who had been dating Chris Hemsworth's body double Bobby Holland Hanton until recently, was snapped with Pete outside the Broadwich Soho Hotel. It has been reported that Maura had been hanging out with a group of friends when Pete joined them. Pete, who has been previously been linked to former EastEnders actress Danielle Harold and The Only Way Is Essex star Megan McKenna, is due to take part in the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing. Maura, who has been busy travelling between the UK and America for work was also previously linked to another TOWIE star Joey Essex when they were spotted together at the Pride of Britain Awards in October 2022. However, Maura, from Longford, dismissed rumours she was then dating Joey by retweeting an article about the pair and adding, more rubbish along with a yawning face emoji. Pete and Maura, who were last spotted together in public at the TV Bafta awards in May, were reportedly dating back October 2023 after being seen together at the Pride Of Britain Awards. However, she later insisted they were just close friends. She has previously dated Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice, as well as her Love Island co-stars Christopher Taylor and Curtis Pritchard. Bobby and Maura were first romantically linked after they were first spotted on a date in London in May and were then seen enjoying several passionate kisses while on holiday together in Ibiza in June. Maura confirmed her relationship with the successful stuntman during a December appearance on the Late Late Show with Patrick Kielty. But she later confirmed that she had moved on from Bobby after 10 months together. Maura recently revealed how she has had Hollywood men slide into my DMs. But I'm not going to do that, be flown to Hollywood for a first date. They have to come to me, she declared. She added: I'm dating. The thing with me is I won't just date someone. I don't go off just looks, I have to be speaking to somebody for quite some time to sort of get their vibe. It needs to be flirty, getting to know each other, getting a vibe. Maura Higgins The reality star shot to fame on the fifth series of Love Island UK in 2019, currently hosts Love Island Aftersun in the US. She recently appeared in an unseen Aftersun clip flirting with a Love Island USA contestant, and confessing her love for him. After their interview had finished, she was seen longingly staring at diamond dealer, Harrison Luna (27) before making her a heart shape with her hands, and mouthing: 'I love you!' to his back. As he left the set, Maura commented: What a man before pleading with the producers, Can I go in as a bombshell? After watching the clip back with Love Island US host Ariana Madix and Aftersun guest, Maura admitted: I'm actually weirded out by how much I was staring at him. What was that? Imitating her facial expressions, she added: That is creepy! Oh my god no wonder I am single. Potatoes New Zealand is delighted to announce the launch of the Sustainable Vegetable Systems Tool, an innovative solution designed to enhance sustainability practices within the vegetable farming industry. The SVS Tool was officially launched by Minister Nicola Grigg at a ceremony at Plant & Food Research in Lincoln on Friday 2 August. The SVS Tool is a nitrogen budgeting tool developed in collaboration with leading agricultural experts, environmental scientists and industry partners. The tool aims to provide growers with comprehensive evidence-based decision support to optimise their nitrogen management practices. By utilising this tool, growers can reduce environmental impact, increase efficiency, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The Sustainable Vegetable Systems project began in 2019, arising from the scarcity of data on vegetable nitrogen flows, particularly in crop rotation systems and a need to sustainably support growers. Minister Grigg cutting SVS cake. Photo supplied. Over a three-year period, nitrogen flow data rates using varieties of fertiliser was measured through a selection of representative vegetable crop rotations at Plant & Food Research sites in Lincoln and Hawkes Bay. This work and data produced laid the foundation for the SVS tool. These experiments were reproduced regionally across New Zealand with increasing engagement with growers to provide valuable insights into vegetable nitrogen optimisation. The project consolidated data from various sources and stakeholders with key inputs from Plant & Food Research modellers, plant and soil scientists. The SVS model was built to help support growers nitrogen use decision making through scientific knowledge, databased decision systems and practical support. This is a highly collaborative project of key vegetable groups with an aim to develop a decision support tool using an integrated data set based on real world practices that are robust, trusted and reflect industry practice. Key industry players included Potatoes New Zealand, Vegetables Research and Innovation, Vegetables New Zealand, Process Vegetables NZ, NZ Buttercup Squash Council, Onions New Zealand, Horticulture New Zealand, Plant & Food Research, and the Ministry for Primary Industries provided government investment. Key Features of the SVS Tool: 1. Real-Time Data Analysis: The tool offers real-time nutrient management decision making support for growers. 2. Customised Support: Based on the data collected, the tool provides tailored guidance for nitrogen application. 3. Environmental Impact Reports: Farmers can generate detailed reports on their nitrogen practices, helping them meet sustainability goals and regulatory requirements. 4. User-Friendly Interface: Designed with ease of use in mind, the tool is accessible to all fertiliser decision makers. "It was wonderful to officially launch the SVS tool and celebrate the hard work of many through the development of this technology," Minister Nicola Grigg states. "I see the opportunities and benefits of this tool as a remarkable example of what may be achieved through collaboration, innovation and science. Congratulations to everyone involved." Kate Trufitt, CEO of Potatoes New Zealand, expressed her enthusiasm for the launch, stating, "The Sustainable Vegetable Systems Tool represents a significant advancement in our efforts to promote sustainable farming practices. "By equipping our growers with cutting-edge technology and actionable insights, we are taking a major step towards a more sustainable and resilient agricultural future." Andrew Barber, SVS Programme Manager, shared his insights, The SVS Tool integrates nitrogen planning with soil testing, progressively overriding modelled predictions with measured results. "The real time data and personalised guidance will help make more informed decisions, ultimately improving performance and reducing environmental impact. Miriam Hall, Plant & Food Research Business Manager of the programme is highly motivated about this project. The SVS tool is world leading modelling. "Creating data-based decision modelling tools from collaboration with a variety of stakeholders is critical to support growers. "Plant & Food Research are proud of being part of this project to help shape the New Zealand vegetable industry to a sustainable future. Professor Colin Smith, a neuropathologist called by the Crown, said moments after Sadie-Leigh was either struck in the head or had her head struck against something, she would have been in a bad way. Experts have given evidence that within seconds of the impact the 17-month-old would likely have been unconscious, struggling to breathe, with blood building up inside her brain to the extent she would have no chance of survival. Toddler Sadie-Leigh Gardner suffered a blow to the head that was akin to falls from a significant height or a road traffic accident. Warning: This story contains medical evidence that may be distressing for some readers. She would not have looked like a normal healthy child, during week two of a murder trial. The Crown alleges Adrian Clancy caused the fatal blow to Sadie-Leighs head while the toddlers mother, his partner at the time, was at a beauty appointment in 2019. The defence argues Sadie-Leighs mother caused the injury and then left the toddler to go and get eyelash extensions. The jury heard evidence last week that Sadie-Leigh was floppy and barely breathing when the 39-year-old defendant carried her to the neighbouring unit where CPR was started and an ambulance was called. Adrian Clancy carried the floppy and barely breathing 17-month-old to the neighbouring unit, where an ambulance was called. The toddler died less than 48 hours later. Smith said at the moment of impact, the skull was cracked and bleeding in the brain began. He said often with injuries of the type suffered by Sadie-Leigh, the child would be unconscious straight away, gasping for breath, and the heart would begin to struggle to pump blood around the body. However under cross-examination by Clancys lawyer Rob Stevens, Smith conceded that it was difficult to definitively say how Sadie-Leigh would have immediately appeared to those caring for her. While his initial assessment was that respiratory distress would be an issue within seconds of the impact, he conceded it could have been minutes before her breathing appeared laboured to an observer. When Stevens suggested it could have been as long as 10-15 minutes, Smith said that would be at the extreme limits of a possible window. He also said it was possible that Sadie-Leigh could have been drifting in and out of consciousness, rather than immediately unconscious. As soon as this head injury has happened, shes a very unwell little girl, he said under reexamination. Floppiness and a loss of control of limbs, including seizures, were also common with this degree of head injury. He said as the brain began to bleed immediately after impact, it would have been harder for her heart to pump the blood to the brain, and as the blood clot increased, the heart function would have become even worse, in a vicious cycle. Imaging taken both before and after Sadie-Leigh died showed extensive bleeding, both on the surface of the brain, within the brain, and into her eyes. The loss of blood flow would have caused the brain to swell, and hed seen evidence of the brain moving out of the skull due to the swelling. He said by the time Sadie-Leigh was found unconscious and then attended to by paramedics she was moribund - essentially already dying. Not normal childhood injuries Sadie-Leighs brain injury was irreversible and non-survivable, and surgery hadnt been an option when she arrived at Starship Childrens Hospital in Auckland. Sadie-Leigh Gardner suffered significant brain bleeds that were non-survivable and inoperab le. Dr Russell Metcalfe, a paediatric radiologist from Starship, said the level of injuries Sadie-Leigh presented with were well beyond what youd expect from normal childhood injuries. Hed identified damage to her head and neck that indicated shed been shaken, and also either been hit in the head with something or had her head slammed into something. Upon re-examining a CT scan taken at Tauranga Hospital, hed also spotted a fracture to her scapula - in laymans terms her shoulder blade. He said this was an unusual injury for a child of this age given the area was surrounded by muscle. He said when it did happen, it was typically associated with events that caused forceful direct impact on the area - for example, a fall from a tree, or a child coming off a bike at high speed, and landing on the shoulder blade. It was his opinion this injury was caused at the same time as the skull fracture and ligament damage, but from a separate blow than that to her head. He said she had likely been struck from behind with force, but given the injury would have been painful, he thought it probably happened at the same time as the head injuries, as caregivers would have noticed her in pain when holding her, dressing her, or moving her arm. The defence challenged him on this point repeatedly, stating that histological evidence - that of the cellular changes around the injury - seemed to indicate there had been healing at a cellular level examined at a microscopic level. Metcalfe said his discussions with the pathologist whod done the histology indicated the given window of time meant the injury could still have happened at the same time as the other injuries, even with the healing at a cellular level, but neither he nor the pathologist could give precise timing. Metcalfe said his opinion was also based on other factors. The level of force and nature of the injury was unusual enough to make him suspicious it happened at the same time as the other trauma. The level of brain bleeding caused by the skull fractures showed a different level of force than common injuries like toppling from a shopping trolley or falling from a couch. With normal childhood injuries you dont come in essentially dead, he said. He confirmed the head injuries must have happened in the afternoon before she was admitted to hospital. She would have been instantly recognisable as injured or unwell, he said. Paediatrician Dr Jeanine Nunn said based on clinical experience, children who suffered the level of head injury experienced by Sadie-Leigh would be immediately symptomatic and quite abnormal. Crown prosecutor Richard Jenson asked whether, if a child were still conscious, they would be responding in pain following the injuries. Im not sure theyre conscious enough to know if there is pain, she said. The trial continues. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. In preparation for the forthcoming Azerbaijani parliamentary election, all New Azerbaijan Party candidates have been registered with the district electoral commissioners, the party told Trend. All party nominees in 125 constituencies have received registration certificates, according to the source. To note, on June 28, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed a decree dissolving the sixth convocation of the Azerbaijani Parliament and scheduling a snap election for September 1. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel The likelihood of both risks occurring had been assessed as almost certain. There was also a risk of cultural and community impact with widespread community concerns including reversible or irreversible damage and disruption to the community. Council water services manager Brett Houston, in the report, said the two main risks associated with flood inundation mapping included the councils reputation in terms of social media comments, national media coverage and public disquiet. A flood model communication plan is to be presented to the council on Tuesday outlining major risks due to the release of flood model information. More than $9 million has been budgeted for stormwater improvement work in Whangamata over the next six years with Thames-Coromandel District Council now seeking to implement a communication plan as it develops a controversial flood model for the town. The council had never undertaken such an exercise and therefore some tailoring to our approach may be needed along the way. The release of the information had the potential to impact property values and would affect a large portion of the towns community. It would likely impact on present and future interests of the town and community interest was high. The likely consequences were controversial. A timeline showed the council was targeting social media with a video explaining the project, letters and emails were being sent to ratepayers detailing the project overview, followed by open days and an online webinar. This satellite image shows the shoreline at Whangamata, with red and green lines denoting its position before and after Cyclone Gabrielle. Image / Airbus DS 2023. A crucial element of the project had been to model flooding in Whangamata to guide decision-making on new developments, to gauge where infrastructure investments were needed to mitigate flooding risk for existing properties and to inform property owners of the potential risk. An insurance perspective had been applied to the flood inundation mapping exercise and from an insurers perspective four important messages for the council had been consolidated into its thinking about the planned actions it took, and in its approach. Insurers expected the council to act as prudent uninsured, as the council owed a duty of care to the community. Insurers could view things dimly if available information was not acted upon. By acting on the information it now had, the council was acting in a reasonable manner and that the council needed to know and consider its statutory obligations. There were no applicable financial considerations. Houston said Whangamata had experienced significant stormwater flooding from weather events over the past 20 years, including during the severe storms in January and February last year. The proposal to improve the towns stormwater kicked off in 2017 following flooding and it was presented to the Long-Term Plan (LTP) in 2018. In 2021, $1.2 million was earmarked for a working plan, then in 2022 the council began the multi-year Whangamata Stormwater Improvements project with the aim of expanding the capacity of infrastructure so that it could handle increased amounts of stormwater generated by weather events. An integral aspect of the model had been the development of floodplain mapping, dividing the township into 16 grid sections to overlay flood inundation data. The mapping highlighted the susceptibility of many properties to flooding under different recurrence intervals. The flood maps would be soon available on the council website as part of the smart maps suite of digital maps, included under hazards for any property in Whangamata. Waikato Regional Council already had information displayed on its website about the hazards from coastal inundation and river flooding but did not include hazards associated with stormwater flooding. The maps modelled probable flooding for 1-in-10 and 1-in-100-year flood events, given the current stormwater infrastructure. The maps would not foretell the future but offered a probable guide to areas that would likely be flooded to some extent. Longer-term residents and property owners would likely already be familiar with areas where flooding could occur, while the infrastructure budgeted and approved in the 2024-2034 LTP ($9.171m) was meant to mitigate flooding risk, and so over time the flood modelling maps will be updated to reflect the changed risk level. Staff had identified that the communication plan implemented by Tauranga City Council was a success and that method had been used as the basis for the Thames-Coromandel District Council communication plan. -Waikato Herald. While the customer base has gotten better and better, it's still not enough. Claudy believes positivity and hope will help him through tough times, but he hasn't expected to be operating in a ghost city. Claudy Schenk, the owner of Hashtag Cafe on Grey St, says he knows Taurangas city centre is quiet, but after a few successful years operating out of his food truck and a stall in the former Our Place container village called Hashtag Street Food, he thinks the cafe wouldnt do too bad, Tauranga will soon be booming and his business will be pumping. These are the words of a Tauranga city centre cafe owner who says paying his rent has become a challenge after a 20 per cent drop in sales. Claudy says it has been a challenge to pay his rent in the last two to three months, with a 20 per cent drop in sales as a result of customer downturn and a quiet winter. He says about 80 per cent of his customers are people working in the city coming for a coffee. Im expecting another two or three tough months and then summer is coming back. Claudy is not alone in his struggles. A recent survey by the Restaurant Association paints a concerning picture of the current climate within the industry. Businesses across the sector are grappling with significant challenges including declining revenues, reduced customer numbers, and deteriorating mental health among operators, with 54 per cent of business owners nationwide reporting that their mental health had worsened as a result of these ongoing pressures. Claudy says there has been a lot of stress, and he does his best not to take it home to his family. When you have kids, you want to go home and be happy, but sometimes its hard to smile, he says. Hashtag Cafes entire menu is made from scratch and Claudy says it takes hours to prep the recipes. While he is sometimes tempted to go the easy way, he says he will never stray from the businesss concept - freshly made food from a range of cultures. He has had to increase his menu prices, but he says he believes the menu is very cheap for what he delivers. Salva Dor Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria owner, who did not want to be named for privacy reasons, describes working through the cost-of-living crisis as exhausting. Salva Dor Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria. Im starting to see some grey hairs in my beard, he says with a laugh. The owner says his restaurant is blessed with returning locals who keep his business busy even through the quiet winter months. He puts a lot of thought into who he hires, as he says the smallest mistake can make life-long customers walk away. If someone is spending their money, they would rather spend it on a place they know they can trust rather than experimenting with new places, the owner says. Everything is under a microscope. The cost-of-living crisis has meant most of his customers only visit when they celebrate special occasions. The owner has been trialling different ways to draw in the crowds including $30 steak nights - a dish priced so low it's making no profit. In the end its just numbers. If you get a good amount of people in your restaurant, it just kind of balances out at the end. Scotch fillet has risen from $19 per kg before the cost-of-living crisis to $35 - or $30 if the meat is on special. He says food quantity has changed too, with many food items being sold per 800 grams rather than per kilogram. King prawns used to be sold at $16 to $17 per kilogram but he says now they are $23 to $24 per 800 grams. The Barn Burger & Grill owner Paras Acharya opened his restaurant in Mount Maunganui eight months ago and says the winter months have slowed business right down. It was hard on Acharya both physically and mentally as he was on deck most of the week, increasing his hours from when he was a chef. Good times will come. The latest Hospitality Industry Report from the Restaurant Association reveales operators began to feel the impact of cost-of-living pressures on customer spending about halfway through last year, and that has continued through 2024. The combination of extreme weather events, rising food costs, declining customer traffic and spending, increasing wage costs, cost of living pressures, and election year uncertainties had significantly affected overall industry productivity and profitability. However, a notable positive aspect is the return of international tourists, who contribute strongly to trade over the summer 2024 season. Restaurant Association chief executive Marisa Bidois says the past year has been one of the most challenging periods for the industry, coming on the heels of several difficult years. The cost-of-living challenges and other pressures are now compounding these issues, threatening the survival of some businesses, says Marisa. Despite these hurdles, our members are showing extraordinary determination. Business owners are keeping their heads down and doing everything they can to survive, in the hope of brighter times ahead. -Bay of Plenty Times. Creative Bay of Plenty is calling for artists and visual communicators to participate in the 2024 round of the Chorus Cabinet Art Project. This paid commission transforms telecommunications cabinets across the region into vibrant works of art. Participating artists will have the chance to showcase their unique artistic styles and engage with the community through their work. This project aims to inject life into urban environments, fostering a sense of pride and community spirit, and celebrating our regions identity. Artist Millie Pidwell (also known as Murals By Millie) painted a Te Puke cabinet in the 2023 round. "The Chorus Cabinet Art Project is a fantastic opportunity for local artists to express their creativity on a larger scale," says Millie. "It's incredibly fun to transform these cabinets into vibrant pieces of art and engage with the community in a meaningful way. "This project not only beautifies our surroundings but also celebrates the rich artistic talent we have right here in our own backyard." Artists are invited to contribute to the beautification of Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Papamoa, Te Puke, Katikati, and Waihi Beach by painting cabinets in these areas. The theme for this year's project is BOP 2124: Depicting what the Bay might look like in 100 years. Selected artists will receive compensation for their work. There are 10 cabinets to be painted across the region. Submissions are open now and close on 3 September 2024. Dont miss this chance to make your mark on our city. For more information and to submit your application, visit www.creativebop.org.nz. Hundreds of nurses called on to fill critical workforce shortages are without jobs, with one in four recent graduates unemployed and international nurses warning others to stay away. More than 7000 people are training to be nurses, with 535 completing their final exams last month, but 160 had not yet found work through the centralised staffing portal. Student nurse Shannyn Bristowe will graduate in January from her three-year degree and says the nurse shortage was real - but so was the fear among students about whether there would be work for them. "I think you're going to go through nursing with the understanding that, and because there is the nursing shortage especially, that so long as you pass everything, you pass your state exam, that you'll have a job to go into. And now that isn't certain, and that future of your job prospects is kind of up in the air. "You know that there's a nursing shortage, but you're not sure if you can even get a job in nursing. So you've got a huge student loan, that's sitting there but are you going to be able to work as a nurse or not? Are you competing with nurses that have a whole lot of experience as well?" A recent incident in Waikato, where students were mistakenly sent emails offering them jobs, had added to the disquiet. Bristowe, the co-chairperson of the National Student Unit for the Nurses Organisation, says some students were thinking about moving to Australia, though that was not an option for everyone. NZNO chief executive Paul Goulter says recent figures from the government suggested the country was 1000 nurses short, but he believed it was worse than that. "It doesn't count the number of nurses [who] have left, and also doesn't address acute shortages in areas like mental health, women's health, children's health and oncology, and also for the shortage of nurses in primary health. And so this shortage has not got any better, and to have budget cuts then come in and affect the employment of nurses more generally, it just doesn't make sense. "There's a shortage of nurses, and there's definitely a shortage of New Zealand domestic nurses, and to think that the current crop of graduates haven't all been employed is a matter of great worry. What we're worried about, it's not just for the current nurses or the nurses in training right now, it's the perception for people who are thinking about entering into nursing, what the impact on them will be if they know they don't have a job at the end of that quite expensive and elongated training." There may need to be a pause, or a 'turning down of the tap' of international nurses until there was capacity to support them, he says. International nurses National Student Unit for the Nurses Organisation co-chairs Shannyn Bristowe (left) and Stacey Wharewera (right). Photo: RNZ. Nursing was put on the immigration green list 18 months ago amid the workforce gaps and long waiting lists, and answered the call. Nursing Council figures show internationally qualified nurses make up 45 percent of the New Zealand nursing workforce, but in the last year accounted for 85 percent of all new registrations. In the last quarter, they made up 98 percent of all new nurses, albeit in a period when neither of the annual two domestic graduations took place. New Zealand graduate nurses are matched through the ACE portal for jobs, whereas international nurses apply directly to healthcare facilities or agencies. Registered nurse Khushboo Sabherwal, from India, estimates she has spent about $40,000 to $50,000 to get her CAP [competence assessment programme], nursing registration, visa, flight and living costs since May. She says she applied for 300 jobs, and is now heading to Australia to find work. "There are 200-plus CAP students, and none of them got a job, not even one," she says. "I have applied for so many jobs, in rest homes, hospitals, villages, even school nurses, in clinics. And I got rejections only." She had this plea for the government and health authorities: "Please stop taking more candidates if you can't provide jobs". "I came here with a lot of ambition. Now, nearly five months later, I sit in a room jobless and next month my visa's going to be expired and I am still looking for visa sponsorship - we all left stable jobs and made significant financial sacrifices to pursue nursing positions in New Zealand. If these nurses are accepted and their registrations processed, why are they continually deemed unwanted by employers?" Other countries, such as the UK and Ireland conducted interviews prior to job offers, followed by tests as part of the registration process, she says. "We urge the governments of New Zealand, as well as their respective nursing and healthcare councils, to review their hiring practices." Recruitment agencies told her that vacancies existed but the government had frozen recruitment, she says. 'Artificial nursing glut' The former president of the Filipino Nurses Association, Monina Hernandez, says New Zealand still needed more nurses to reach safe patient ratios, and it was cost-cutting that created an 'artificial nursing glut' making it appear that there were too many. "The government will have to employ the nurses that are in the country first before, before they reach out to other countries or nurses," she says. "This is essential in keeping New Zealand nurses and in attending to the health needs of Kiwis. "There is a shortage of nurses if health officials are using the patient safety lens when looking at workforce planning. On the other hand, there would not be any nurse shortage if they are using a different lens when looking at the current health situation, ie, cost-cutting or their political priority. If the nurse patient ratio is followed, New Zealand would need several thousand nurses more." Hernandez, a nursing lecturer and infection control specialist, says the CAP competency assessment costs $9200 and even if nurses got their licence quickly and found a job in a fortnight, their overall costs averaged almost $24,000 - more than two years' salary as a nurse in the Philippines. Some fortunate overseas nurses were sponsored, but even that could go wrong, she says. One nurse was told that the job she was offered was no longer available, and had instead been offered a job as a health care assistant. "She was sponsored by an aged care facility, but that same aged care facility cannot even give her a job. If they ask these nurses to come over and sign a contract they are obliged to provide them with jobs, because these people are uprooted from their families, from their countries, and they're in an uncertain state." The National Student Unit for the Nurses Organisation (NZNO). Photo: RNZ. Health Minister Shane Reti says in a written statement that as workforce needs changed, so would New Zealand's international recruitment requirements. Nursing shortages remained in areas such as mental health, critical care and midwifery. "Training our own home-grown health workforce - including nurses - remains a priority for Health NZ," says Health NZ head of communications Catherine Delore. "At any given time, there are more than 7000 trainee nurses going through our system. "While our progress in nursing recruitment over the past year or so has exceeded expectations - with more nurses now employed by our hospitals than ever before - we recognise this success has significantly changed the nursing workforce landscape and resulted in far fewer vacancies than in 2023. "We understand graduate nurses began training with the reasonable expectation there would be a role at Health NZ when they finished. While this has been the case for the majority of them, with 334 matched to roles at Health NZ and 35 to roles elsewhere, we know those yet to be placed will remain concerned." It was not unusual for graduate nurses to not be employed immediately following registration, she says, and they would be supported to find roles. "We are confident placement of graduate nurses will continue over the coming weeks and months, as district and regional leaders consider recruitment within their budget parameters." Social media: The general rights and wrongs of communicating on these platforms be authentic, dont troll are well hashed out in 2024, but grey areas remain: The work group chat minefields, the perils for parents, what not to discuss with colleagues. In the third of a series of social media etiquette guides, Catherine Sylvester finds out whether following the boss and vice versa is ever a good idea. In an age where friend-requesting or following people you know is common, the question of whether its appropriate to do so with a manager or team leader is a common one for employees. Similarly, for those in senior roles, responding to those requests is not always straightforward. Prior to the advent of social media, staff knowledge of the bosss personal life and vice versa was largely limited to whatever they revealed in breakroom small talk. Workplace interactions took place on company time and the rules of engagement were generally understood and accepted. Flash forward to today, people are so contactable at any time that some countries are enshrining in law the right for workers to disconnect after hours. Meanwhile, commenting on snaps of your manager in a bikini holidaying in Fiji could open a space where the professional and personal blur results in potential discomfort for both parties. Timely, honest and straightforward Recruitment and human resource specialist at Talent ID Recruitment Ltd, Aleesha Kemp, says the boundaries of workplace relationships and connections are becoming more blurred with the use of social media, and everyone has a personal choice in who they allow to follow or friend them. Using your own personal values and morals and considering the impression [your] posts can have on others are the key points to consider when deciding to follow/friend someone from work. Aleesha recommends managers or leaders be fair and reasonable when choosing who to accept - or not - as followers. Best practice would be to either accept all team members who ask or have a rule where they keep work and personal life separate and dont allow following from any team member to ensure they are consistent. Recruitment and human resource specialist Aleesha Kemp says relationship and connection boundary lines within the workplace are becoming blurred with the use of social media. Photo: NZME. If team members and leaders do choose to engage on social media, its important correct communication channels are still followed when reporting sickness, task instruction, providing feedback or other notifiable situations from a work sense, she says. If either party chooses to decline a request, Aleesha suggests a timely, honest, and straightforward response such as: Thanks for asking me. Im keeping Facebook for my family and friends. I will ask you to join me on LinkedIn, my professional network, instead. Conveying this in person or via a phone call where vocal tone can be heard is best. Bearing any potential legal implications in mind is advisable, Aleesha says, noting employers have the right to investigate inappropriate social media behaviour outside of work if that behaviour brings the employers reputation into disrepute. Case law suggests an employer may be justified in taking disciplinary action against an employee if it can show the employees inappropriate behaviour on social media platforms damaged its business, impacts other employees undermines the necessary trust and confidence between the employer and employee. For those who would like to share some but not all of their social media world with colleagues, Aleesha suggests using privacy and security settings to restrict content for certain friends. Facebook allows you to set custom privacy settings so not all your friends can see the same level of information about you, she says, adding that Instagram offers options regarding who can view your feed and stories. We cant put our head in the sand Director of Glia: Workplace Psychologists, Bridget Jelley, says its important to develop some literacy and comfort for how we do and do not engage on social media as we cant put our head in the sand about it. Connection is important in the workplace and social media can provide opportunities for this, she says. Facebook does offer those who want to connect with colleagues (junior or senior to them) in a more holistic way [to do so]. Bridget notes there needs to be balance and responsibility from all parties, and some organisations and professional bodies have policies for their staff or members about social media. The psychologist says its best not to ignore a friend request from a colleague if you dont want to accept it. Front up and just explain that you keep Facebook for close friends and family, or pre-empt potential requests by letting staff know you dont connect with colleagues through social media. To avoid potential awkwardness, Bridget suggests all parties preface connection requests with something like, Im a social media user so will send you an invite but totally respect your boundaries so dont feel you have to accept. Pele Walker is the director of dispute resolution at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. Pele says its important employees do not speak about their employers in a derogatory manner while in a public or work forum and that policies should be in place to ensure managers and team leaders do not use their positions in a manner that could be perceived as harassment. To avoid confusion, Pele says its important for workplaces to have written policies that cover issues related to social media usage. In summary DO remember you have a choice whether or not to follow or accept requests DONT pick and choose which of your team members you allow to follow you if youre a manager - be consistent DONT use social media channels for work-related communication such as sick leave requests or performance appraisals DO have a prepared response if keeping social media accounts separate from workmates and deliver this in person DO ask your employer if they have a Code of Conduct or policy that addresses issues related to social media use. -NZ Herald Alberto Flores Granada Tuesday, 6 August 2024, 17:57 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X (antes Twitter) LinkedIn Telegram Threads Around 1,400 different spider species live on the Iberian peninsula. Of these, only three are truly dangerous: the European black widow, the Iberian black widow and the brown recluse or violin spider. The first two do not usually come into contact with humans and live in rural areas far from urban areas. However, the violin spider is more common, to the extent that it can be found in the home. A few weeks ago, a scientific article published in the journal of the Spanish Society of Environmental Health brought to light a case in which this species had attacked a 42-year-old man in Vizcaya on three occasions at his home between May and September 2023. The situation that put the public on alert, as the affected person in question presented wounds with a serious cutaneous necrotising condition. However, despite the alarming nature of the case, the truth is that in Spain there have only been 12 cases of poisoning caused by the violin spider since 2005. "This spider is not really aggressive and only bites if it feels attacked or if there has been some kind of movement," Jorge Galvan, director general of the Asociacion Nacional de Empresas de Sanidad Ambiental (Anecpla), told the newspaper IDEAL. But although it does not usually attack, it can cause "serious damage" if it does. "It has a neurotoxic venom and its wounds are important, to the point that they take several weeks to heal and must be cleaned several times". Although it can be found throughout the Spanish mainland, its presence is not excessive. "At present there may be a little more of this spider because it reproduces in spring and summer and now it has more time to do so," said Jorge. "This spider is not really aggressive and only bites if it feels attacked or if there has been some kind of movement" The expert believes that we should not be alarmed by the violin spider, also known as the brown recluse, as "they are not active during the day" and only tend to move in the late afternoon or at night. "The probability of them attacking you is small, but when they bite, they are dangerous." They are generally easier to find in the countryside, although they can be found in the home in cool, dry areas. "The ideal is to have sealed entry routes into the house and a clean home. Pests look for shelter and food, and if they find that, it is possible that they could nest in the home", said the general director of Anecpla. Finally, Jorge said that it is advisable to keep the house clean, especially areas such as the basement, to prevent them from nesting. Lorena Cadiz Tuesday, 6 August 2024, 11:23 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X (antes Twitter) LinkedIn Telegram Threads It was just over a year ago, specifically in July 2023, when a person walking with his dog along El Rodeito beach in Marbella alerted 112 of the presence of a female Caretta Caretta, or in other words, a loggerhead turtle. When the specialists arrived in the area they realised that 69 eggs had been laid there. They then began an operation on different scales and in different municipalities to ensure, first, that these hatchlings hatched, and later, that they survived until they were big enough and strong enough to live in their natural habitat: the sea. To begin with, during 49 days of incubation, personnel from the regional ministry of the environment and volunteers from the ProDunas association monitored the nest where 60 eggs remained. The remaining nine eggs were transferred to the Bioparc facilities in Fuengirola for artificial incubation, based on the procedure recommended within the national sea turtle nesting strategy with the aim of ensuring the hatching of a percentage of the clutch, should any problem occur on the beach. Eight eggs were finally hatched there. The hatchlings were transferred to the CEGMA centre in Algeciras, where they have remained during their first year of life, and in May, the Seville aquarium began its collaboration with the care of 15 turtles. Something similar happened in Selwo Marina, in Benalmadena, which last July took charge of another five turtles, for which it built special facilities, where they have lived for the last month and a half, until they reached the necessary size to be released, and while waiting for the sea temperature to rise. These five specimens in Benalmadena were released Monday (5 August) on the beach next to El Bil-Bil castle. They were the last ones to be released from the hatching that took place in El Rodeito de Marbella, as 49 other specimens were released on a beach in Marbella in July. Zoom One of the loggerhead turtles on its way to the sea. SUR The event was attended by various authorities, including the Mayor of Benalmadena, Juan Antonio Lara, and the territorial delegate of sustainability, environment and blue economy of the Junta de Andalucia in Malaga, Jose Antonio Viquez, as well as representatives of Selwo Marina. The delegate highlighted the joint work between institutions and "the public-private collaboration to successfully protect these specimens, allowing 91 per cent of the hatched eggs to survive through the process known as headstarting". This technique implies that, once the eggs hatch, the turtle hatchlings are cared for and protected for a year to guarantee their survival once they are released into the wild. "Throughout this process, the hatchlings are cared for so that they reach the right size for release and thus have sufficient capacity to survive in the wild. Thanks to headstarting we manage to increase the marine biodiversity of our coasts," said Viquez. "Enjoying a show like today's in Benalmadena, with the release of five loggerhead turtles on our beaches, has been a privilege, so we thank you for counting on our town for this type of activity," Lara added. "It's hard to say goodbye "It's sad, because at the end of the day they are animals we have spent a lot of time with, we have dedicated a lot of effort, and it's hard to say goodbye, but in reality, rather than sadness, what you feel is emotion, a beautiful emotion of being part of something very important. It's so important for animal welfare and for the planet: it's very exciting", said Laura Campoy, from the Selwo Marina conservation team. It should be remembered that the eggs found on the beaches of Marbella is the fourth known in Andalucia in the last 15 years, although this phenomenon is growing, as in 2023 alone, 23 Caretta Caretta turtle nests have been recorded on the Spanish Mediterranean coast. This increase is an exceptional occurrence as this species is protected by environmental legislation and until now had been present on the Spanish coast only in its juvenile phase and returned to its beaches of origin for breeding, mainly located on the American coast. In recent years, the Spanish Mediterranean coast has been colonised by this emblematic species for breeding purposes, which is why the environmental authorities are making every effort to ensure the greatest possible success of these nestings. Alba Tenza Tuesday, 6 August 2024, 10:58 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X (antes Twitter) LinkedIn Telegram Threads The couple who died in the tragic accident on Saturday on the A-356 in Casabermeja, which claimed the lives of four people in total, have been named as Andreea Lancu and Alfonso Guijarro, both 47 years old. The couple, who lived in the rural area of Pie Gallina, in Alhaurin El Grande, near Villafranco del Guadalhorce, were on their way to a wedding reception in Colmenar, but the van in which they were travelling was involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle, the driver of which was also killed. The 18-year-old woman from Malaga was travelling with two friends aged 30 and 22, one of whom remains in a stable but serious condition, while the other has been discharged from hospital. Andreea, from Bucharest, and Alfonso, from Malaga, died along with an 18-year-old girl; while their son, also 18, was admitted to the ICU and is still recovering. According to people close to the family, the girl was a friend of the family of Ukrainian origin who lived in the United Kingdom, and her body was repatriated on Monday. Zoom Flowers at the scene of the crash. SUR I hope their child can continue his life with great strength, supported by the invisible hands of his parents, a family friend said of the couples son. The day after the accident, a group of friends, still shocked by the tragedy, went to the scene of the accident to place flowers in memory of their friends. Now, when you pass by the place where they lost their lives, you don't just find flowers, you find the bride's bouquet, which she left there after hearing about the fatal accident of her friends, a person close to the family told SUR. "Kindness, humility and generosity" People close to the couple say they will always remember them for "their kindness, humility and generosity". Andreea was an animal lover and she helped out at a local animal shelter, and she also cared for 16 dogs in her home that she had taken in and adopted. Her big dream was to be able to buy a little house in the countryside where she could keep the dogs. She was surrounded by the four-legged friends she cared for and loved so much, said Eva, from the Apa Malaga Cero animal protection association, with which Andreea actively participated. She was a great person with a good heart and with a strong but at the same time exceptional character. Despite not being from here, she had an Andalusian sense of humour, added Eva. One thing that characterised Andreea, Eva explained, was that she was very hard-working, alternating her work in a beauty centre in Alora with her job in a bar in the La Trocha shopping centre in Coin. While Andreea's passion for animals filled the family home with dogs, her husband Alfonso's love for music made the home a place where silence and rhythm went hand in hand. Alfonso played drums in the group, Los Masqueperros, and his bandmates acknowledged their friend on their social media page: Alf, Fito, Alfonso, it's your turn to set the rhythm wherever you are: thank you for existing and being a great friend. It is not fair that life has treated them like this, Alfonso was a great friend, father, husband, fighter and enthusiastic about his music group that was slowly opening doors. Andreea was a great pillar in the lives of many, as big as the void she leaves behind, another of their friends said. Now the friends of the couple, are asking for justice for their deaths, as well as for the rest of the victims. Alhaurin el Grande town hall sent its condolences on behalf of the town to the relatives of Andreea and Alfonso. Nazrin Abdul Oil prices has become more expensive in the global markets, Azernews reports. The price of one barrel of "Brent" oil on London's ICE ("InterContinental Exchange Futures") exchange increased by $0.89 to $77.19. The price of a barrel of "Light" oil on the New York NYMEX ("New York Mercantile Exchange") increased by $1.06 to $74. However, Azerbaijani oil has fallen in the global market. The price of one barrel of "Azeri Light" brand oil decreased by $0.97 or 1.2 percent to $79.73. Note that the lowest price of "Azeri Light" oil was recorded on April 21, 2020 (US$15.81), and the maximum price was recorded in July 2008 (US$149.66). BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. UNESCO has issued a certificate to Khurshidbanu Natavan's "Flower Book" poetic album, the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS) told Trend. Ambassador-at-Large, Secretary-General of the National Commission for UNESCO Seymur Fataliyev, presented the original certificate issued by UNESCO to the President of ANAS, Academician Isa Habibbayli. This certificate recognizes the inclusion of the nomination "Flower Book" of Khurshidbanu Natavan album of illustrated verses in the UNESCO Memory of the World International Register. The nomination was submitted by Azerbaijan for inclusion in the UNESCO Memory of the World International Register in 2022-2023 and was approved by the UNESCO Executive Board in 2023. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Following the announcement of his forthcoming fifth studio album, Shawn, Shawn Mendes has revealed plans for an intimate five-date tour. With the caption For My Family and Friends, Mendes wrote in the announcement on Instagram, Wanted the first shows back to be special & to play this album live for you in the places we recorded it. ive never played an album top to bottom before but its already one of my favourite shows ive ever rehearsed. I love you guys, the band and I cant wait to see you. Shawn is set for release on October 18, but a lucky few fans will get to hear the album early at Mendes first tour stop at Bearsville Theater in Woodstock, NY, on Thursday, August 8. This special date also coincides with Mendes 26th birthday and the debut of the first two singles, Why Why Why and Isnt That Enough. Tickets for the concert have unsurprisingly sold out, but fans seeking last-minute availability may find a very limited supply on secondary market platforms such as Vivid Seats and SeatGeek, though these tickets come at a premium price. The next tour date isnt until October 14 at Nashvilles Ryman Auditorium, followed by Brooklyns Paramount Theater on October 18, Los Angeles The Ford on October 22 and Seattles Paramount Theater on October 24. If you missed out on signing up for the presale last week, where a select few fans were given access to purchase tickets before selling out almost instantly, you can still find a limited supply on Vivid Seats, SeatGeek and StubHub. August 8 Woodstock, NY Bearsville Theater Vivid Seats | SeatGeek October 14 Nashville, TN Ryman Auditorium Vivid Seats | SeatGeek | StubHub October 18 Brooklyn, NY Brooklyn Paramount Vivid Seats | SeatGeek | StubHub October 22 Los Angeles, CA The Ford Vivid Seats | StubHub October 24 Seattle, WA Paramount Theatre Vivid Seats | SeatGeek | StubHub Cant get enough live music? Shawn Mendes isnt the only touring artist. Check out other favorites who know how to put on an unforgettable show, including Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift, Chappell Roan and Gracie Abrams. Syracuse, N.Y. State leaders will hold an energy summit in Syracuse next month that will include discussion of the possible role advanced nuclear plants could play in meeting New Yorks goal of an emission-free electric grid. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced plans for the summit Monday. Two of the five panel discussions at the daylong conference will be focused on new nuclear technology such as small advanced nuclear reactors, according to a draft agenda. Monticello, N.Y. An Upstate New York woman has been arrested for the death of a 2-year-old boy who was left in a hot SUV for hours on a nearly 100-degree day. Sarah Carter, 33, of Monticello, has been charged with criminally negligent homicide for the death of Antonio Suarez-Ware. Antonio died after he was left alone in an SUV for over four hours on July 16 in a Catskills parking lot, the New York State Police said. The 2-year-old boy died of hyperthermia, a condition where the body dangerously overheats. Troopers did not specify Carters relationship to Antonio. But according to GoFundMe created by the toddlers aunt, Antonio was in foster care at the time of his death. Antonio will be dearly missed, his family wrote in his obituary. We thank our heavenly father for the time that He gave us with our beloved Antonio Cruz Suarez-Ware. The investigation began at 6:43 p.m. on July 16 when a 911 caller reported finding a child inside a vehicle in the Sleepy Hollow Apartment Complex in Monticello. When officers arrived, they found Antonio in cardiac arrest inside a 2012 Ford Explorer, the New York State Police said in a news release. Emergency responders from the Monticello Police Department, the Monticello Fire Department and Catskill Hatzolah EMS tried to save Antonio, but could not revive the child. Antonio was pronounced dead at the scene, troopers said. The state police responded to the apartment complex and launched an investigation. After a weekslong investigation, state police investigators arrested Sarah Carter and charged her with criminally negligent homicide, a felony, and endangering the welfare of a child, a misdemeanor. She was remanded to the Sullivan County Jail in lieu of $50,000 cash, a $150,000 bond or a $300,000 secured bail bond. By Cayla Bamberger | New York Daily News New York A yeshiva group is trying another legal avenue to limit New Yorks ability to regulate ultra-Orthodox Jewish schools and the quality of basic education they are delivering to their students. Parents for Educational and Religious Liberty in Schools, or PEARLS, has asked to go before New Yorks highest court or reargue their case against state education standards in private schools, according to court documents filed at the end of last week. Reformers, who insist too many yeshiva graduates are leaving school without basic math and reading skills, said the question has already been answered by a lower court, which found that all schools, including yeshivas, must offer an education of at least the same quality of a public school. The Appellate Court got it right when they upheld the education regulations: a school that doesnt provide substantially equivalent instruction is breaking the law, Young Advocates for Fair Education, or YAFFED, said in a statement Monday. If we want to see improvement, there must be consequences for schools that dont comply with the law, it continued. At issue is an enforcement tool, passed as part of the regulations in 2022, requiring families to pull out of schools that dont meet educational standards. A trial court decision struck down the measure, but was overturned earlier this summer. Albany Supreme Court Justice Christina Ryba ruled in March of last year the New York State Education Department could force private schools to offer basic instruction, finding constitutional challenges related to religious and parental rights to be without merit. But the trial court judge found a requirement that families completely unenroll from noncompliant schools or face legal repercussions which would have effectively closed the school exceeded the agencys authority. A parent should be able to supplement their childs education with homeschool or by other means, Ryba said. The state appealed the decision, and in June, the majority of judges on a panel of Appellate Divisions Third Department, 4-1, reversed the lower court order, pointing to, among other things, limits on childrens time outside of school to supplement their education. Parents for Educational and Religious Liberty in Schools chided the decision and asked for the Court of Appeals to intervene. Putting aside the irony of declaring a child truant because he is in a classroom with his teacher and classmate for too many hours, wrote Avi Schick, an attorney for PEARLS, that is simply not how a parental violation of the compulsory education law is established in New York. If the groups request is denied, and the decision from New Yorks second highest court stands, parents could be held liable for not sending their kids to an approved school. The latest development in the ongoing legal battle was first reported by Shtetl, a Haredi non-profit media outlet founded by the former executive director of YAFFED. The New York State Education Department and Attorney General Letitia James office, which is representing the state, did not immediately return requests for comment. _____ 2024 New York Daily News. Visit nydailynews.com. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. At the invitation of the State Committee for Work with Diaspora, a Sydney policeman named Azer Nasirli traveled to Lachin, Azerbaijan, to take part in the V Summer Camp for Diaspora Youth, "Youth for a Green World," Trend reports. Commenting on the matter, Nasirli claimed to be a police officer living in Australia for six years. The young man noted that he is head over heels for Lachin. "Our Lachin is a very pretty city with lovely people and beautiful scenery. All of us will remember how much fun and interesting it was to be here. The summer camp takes its participants on tours of Karabakh and Lachin in Azerbaijan. I'm very happy that my time in Lachin has been filled with joy, as I have made new friends and encountered many kind individuals. It is a privilege to be able to visit Karabakh. I will recount every detail of my experience when I go back to Australia. Nature, like everything else in Azerbaijan, is absolutely stunning. In addition to having amazing people, our capital, Baku, is stunning. How can I describe my home country of Azerbaijan to my friends and acquaintances in Australia? Words fail me. I will share my experiences in Baku, Karabakh, and Lachin with them through the films and images I shot while here," he added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel With Google Gemini all the rage and Google Assistant seeming to fade into the background, a big question mark has hung over Googles Nest devices. Had Google lost interest in the smart home, gravitating instead toward the lure of AI? Well, Google is still taking a full-speed-ahead approach with Gemini, but its also signaling renewed interest in the home, with Google announcing that it will infuse its Nest cameras and other home products with a healthy dose of AI smarts. That said, Google Homes new AI features are more like baby steps than game-changers. Dont expect Google Gemini to revolutionize the way you interact with your Nest smart devices, or for Google Assistant (and yes, Assistant for the home is sticking around) to take on a HAL 9000-level of simulated consciousness. Here are five things you need to know about Google Home and its new AI features, starting with: No new AI-enhanced Nest smart displays or speakers, for now If you were hoping for a new suite of Google Nest speakers and displays to go along with Google Homes new AI features, well it aint happening, or at least not yet. There is a new and snazzy-looking 4th-generation Nest Learning thermostat, along with a new (and thoroughly leaked) Google TV Streamer that ditches the dongle look for more of a TV set-top box design. But for now, there are no new Nest speakers or displays. Googles Nest Hub line is looking particularly long in the tooth, with Googles newest displaythe second-generation Nest Hubbeing more than four years old. Meanwhile, the latest Google smart speaker, the Nest Audio, is approaching its fifth birthday. Of course, Google does usually hold a fall event where it unveils new hardware, including new Nest devices. That might be the ideal venue for Google to finally show off some new AI-enhanced Nest products, including speakers and displays. But will it actually happen? Well have to wait and see. Googles Nest cameras will soon learn to describe what theyre seeing Nope, there wont be any new Nest cameras to go with Google Homes new AI functionality either (again, theres always the chance well see some new Nest cams in the fall). But Googles existing Nest cameras are slated to get an intriguing, if not game-changing new feature: the ability to describe what theyre seeing. Starting later this year, Nest cam clips in the Google Home app will serve up much richer captions that will detail the captured activity. In one example shown during a pre-briefing last week, a Nest Cam clip showing a bird perched at a feeder has a Gemini AI-generated caption, reading: A blue jay at a seed-filled feeder, its blue and white features vibrant against a dull, wintry backdrop. There are no people or vehicles, just tranquil natural scenery and the colorful bird. Youll also be able to perform natural language searches of those Nest clips, including such searches as (for example), Did the kids leave their bicycles in the driveway today? All in all, pretty interesting. Its worth noting though, that Google Gemini wont work with Familiar Faces, the Google function that allows Nest Cams to detect the faces of specific household members, loved ones, friends, or other people youve designated. Asked when Familiar Faces might get Gemini enhancements, Googles Anish Kattukaran, product lead for the companys Home and Nest division, promised were working on it. Gemini AI-suggested home automations If youve grown tired of drawing up home automations for Google Home using tedious if/then rules, good news: Gemini is poised to make creating routines a lot easier. Instead of picking through long lists of devices, triggers, and actions, Gemini will allow you to create new automations by simply usingyep, you guessed itnatural language. Just say, for instance, help me save energy, and the Gemini-infused Home app will suggest an appropriate automation. Google Assistants conversations will get more fluid Expect Google Assistants voice to get a Gemini-enhanced makeover, with the Assistant slated to sound more natural to talk to while also being able to understand you better, Google said. Thanks to Google Assistants improved comprehension, conversations with the Assistant wont need to be as stilted as theyve traditionally been, Googles Katturaran promised. In a brief sample video, Google Assistants new voice did sound a bit more conversational, with a more natural tonality, while the Assistant also managed to field a brief follow-up question without the Hey Google wake words (a trick the current Google Assistant can already perform). But its too soon to tell whether Google Assistants vocal makeover will mark a dramatic improvement or be simply cosmetic. AI-generated video recommendations, descriptions, and wallpapers With Googles new TV Streamer comes a handful of new AI-powered features, including the ability to curate video suggestions as well as create watch lists with recommended titles. (Sounds a little meh, but OK.) More interesting is Geminis ability to create overviews for shows, including descriptions of what a given title is about, summaries of what people are saying (the audience reception was largely positive is one example), and what to know (such as whether a show has mature content). Finally, the Google TV Streamer will offer Gemini-created wallpaper and screensavers for the boxs ambient mode, similar to how Amazon Fire TV devices now offer their own AI-generated background art. Timing and availability So, when are all these Gemini AI features for Google Home coming? Think later this year, starting in a public preview for Nest Aware subscribers, before rolling out more broadly into next year, Googles Katturaran said. Dont miss our other coverage: Google also announced the Matter-compatible Google TV Streamer, which can perform as a smart home hub in addition to streaming media, as well as the Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen). That the all-new 4th-generation Nest Learning Thermostat doesnt look radically different from the very first model that came to market 13 years ago is a testament to the originals brilliant industrial design. But Google knows it needs more than winning looks to compete with new challenges from the likes of Ecobee. Heres what its come up with. The Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) retains its familiar glass lens surrounded by a stainless-steel band that spins to change settings. Its curved glass is larger at 2.7 inches (68mm, up from 2.08 inches/53mm on the 3rd-gen device), and its display resolution has increased to 600 x 600-pixels (from 480 x 480 pixels on the 3rd-gen). The Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) will be available in three polished finishes, from left to right: Gold, Obsidian, and Silver). The Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) will be available in three polished finishes, from left to right: Gold, Obsidian, and Silver). Google The Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) will be available in three polished finishes, from left to right: Gold, Obsidian, and Silver). Google Google Your color choices have shrunk, however, from seven to three polished finishes: Gold, Obsidian, or Silver. A trim plate for hiding the holes from previous thermostats is included, but youll want to repair those blemishes and not just cover them up. This news story is part of TechHives in-depth coverage of the best smart thermostats. Onboard and remote sensors; plus, AI The Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) will change its display based on your proximity. The Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) will change its display based on your proximity. Google The Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) will change its display based on your proximity. Google Google The new thermostat is outfitted with four sensors: Theres one for temperature, of course, but also humidity, ambient light, and Googles radar-based Soli, which is used here as a proximity sensor. Googles earlier smart thermostat used Soli to light up its display and switch to its Farsight screen when a user approached. Farsight could be programmed to display your target temperature, the current room temperature, an analog or digital clock, or the current weather and a forecast. This new thermostats more-nuanced Dynamic Farsight feature can automatically change the information displayed on the thermostat as you get closer to it. You can also push down on the thermostat to see an explanation of what the thermostat is doing at the moment. Googles Anish Kattukaran says the thermostats onboard user interface shares a design aesthetic with the latest Pixel Watch. Google says its using AI to help the new thermostat learn your heating and cooling routines even faster. A Smart Schedule feature learns which temperatures you choose most often, and it uses the thermostats sensors to detect motionsuch as when you come earlier than usualto automatically adjust the temperature to your preference within 1 hour, according to Google. Any changes can be overridden in the Google Home app, but you can also control the thermostat from a Pixel Table, Pixel Watch, or Google TV. Google is also introducing a second-generation remote room sensor (the 4th-gen thermostat can support up to six). Google is also introducing a second-generation remote room sensor (the 4th-gen thermostat can support up to six). Google Google is also introducing a second-generation remote room sensor (the 4th-gen thermostat can support up to six). Google Google Nest introduced remote room sensors with its 3rd-gen Nest Learning Thermostat (theyre are also compatible with the Nest Thermostat E) to better compete with Ecobee, and the Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) will come with an all-new second-generation Nest Temperature Sensor in the box. But Google has also boosted the price of its new best thermostat to $280$30 higher than the 3rd-gen device when it shippedwithout a sensor in the box. The 2nd-generation sensor is backward-compatible with both the 3rd-gen Learning Thermostat and the Nest Thermostat E. The new thermostat will take the readings from remote temperature sensors into account and average them with the temperature at the thermostat itself to eliminate hot and cold spots, but youll also be able to choose which sensors are active based on your schedule. During the day, you might want to prioritize the temperatures in your living spaces (the kitchen, living room and home theater, for example), but then have the thermostat focus on the climate in your bedrooms at night. The thermostat can support up to six of these sensors, which can rest on a flat surface or be hung on the wall. Nest Temperature Sensors (2nd gen) cost $39.99 each or $99.99 for a 3-pack. If your HVAC system includes a ventilation function, the Nest Learning Thermostat will monitor the quality of the air outside and shut the ventilator down if the air is unhealthy. If your HVAC system includes a ventilation function, the Nest Learning Thermostat will monitor the quality of the air outside and shut the ventilator down if the air is unhealthy. Google If your HVAC system includes a ventilation function, the Nest Learning Thermostat will monitor the quality of the air outside and shut the ventilator down if the air is unhealthy. Google Google Google says its new thermostat can also take local weather conditions into account before sending commands to your HVAC system. On sunny winter days, for instance, the inside of your home is likely to get warmer on its own, so the thermostat might pause heating to let the sun do the job for free. On a humid day, indoor temperatures might feel warmer than intended, so the thermostat will adjust your indoor climate accordingly. The thermostat can also react to high humidity levels and trigger the appropriate component (e.g., a central air conditioner or dehumidifier) to prevent problems like condensation on your windows and the growth of mold. If your HVAC system includes a ventilator, the new thermostats Smart Ventilation feature will also consider outdoor air quality conditions, bringing in fresh air if its cool and clean, or pausing ventilation if the air outside rises to unhealthy levels due to wildfires or other conditions, so airborne pollutants arent pumped into the home. Regardless of what equipment you have, Google says its Nest Renew feature can automatically shift heating and cooling to times when gas and electricity cost less. The thermostat is Energy Star-certified. HVAC system support The original Nest Learning Thermostats wiring block/mount was every bit as innovative as the rest of the device. It now has two additional terminals to support more types of HVAC equipment. The original Nest Learning Thermostats wiring block/mount was every bit as innovative as the rest of the device. It now has two additional terminals to support more types of HVAC equipment. Google The original Nest Learning Thermostats wiring block/mount was every bit as innovative as the rest of the device. It now has two additional terminals to support more types of HVAC equipment. Google Google Google has added two additional terminals to the Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)s wiring plate (there are now 12 in all) to accommodate even more 24-volt HVAC systems than previous models have supported, including 3-stage heating, 2-stage cooling, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, ventilation, and heat pumps with auxiliary and emergency heat. As with other Nest thermostats, Google says this one doesnt depend on a C wire for power, that its power-sharing technology can automatically scavenge power from other connections. But weve heard that this technology can be problematic with some HVAC systems, resulting in false signals and erratic behavior. Google says the thermostat can detect if needs more power, and that youll get a message in the Google Home app to that effect. Google sells a $25 Nest Power Connector if you need it. A new HVAC System Health Monitor tracks your HVAC systems performance over time and will send you alerts if it detects any issues. If your air conditioner is supposed to turn on to reach your designed target temperature, but the house doesnt begin to cool, youll get an alert in the Google Home app suggesting that you call a service tech; the app can even connect you to a professional if you need service. Will it be good enough? The Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) has some mouth-watering features, particularly if youre building your smart home around the Matter standardor Google Home, specifically. Among the tricks I havent already mentioned, youll be able to link it to third-party Matter-compatible contact sensors, so it can suggest you close any open windows while its heating or cooling your home. But the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium can already do that, albeit with its own contact sensors. The recently reviewed Sensi Touch 2 Smart Thermostat is another good choice already on the market; its not as sophisticated as Ecobees best, but its also a whole lot less expensive, selling for $141 online. Im hoping to get my hands on Googles latest, best thermostat soon, so I can give you a hands-on analysis. Stay tuned. The Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) is available for preorder now at the Google Store: $279.99 in the U.S.; $379.99 in Canada. General availability is scheduled for August 20. Dont miss our other coverage: Google also announced the Matter-compatible Google TV Streamer, which can perform as a smart home hub in addition to streaming media, and we take a look at Googles latest Gemini AI efforts as they relate to the smart home and home entertainment. Malicious actors on the internet know the meaning of service. In a report released Tuesday on digital threats for the first half of 2024, a global AI cybersecurity company found that many of the prevalent threats deployed during the period heavily used malware-as-a-service (MaaS) tools. The report by Darktrace, based on analysis of data across the companys customer deployments, reasoned that the growing popularity of MaaS is due to the lucrative subscription-based income of MaaS ecosystems, as well as the low barrier to entry and high demand. By offering pre-packed, plug-and-play malware, the MaaS market has enabled even inexperienced attackers to carry out potentially disruptive attacks regardless of their skill level or technical ability, the report added. The report predicted that MaaS will remain a prevalent part of the threat landscape in the foreseeable future. This persistence highlights the adaptive nature of MaaS strains, which can change their tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) from one campaign to the next and bypass traditional security tools, it noted. The sophistication of malware-as-a-service services is expected to rise due to the demand for more powerful attack tools, posing challenges for cybersecurity professionals and requiring advancements in defense strategies, said Callie Guenther, a cyber threat research senior manager at Critical Start, a national cybersecurity services company. These MaaS offerings will introduce new and adaptive attack vectors, such as advanced phishing schemes and polymorphic malware that continually evolves to evade detection, she told TechNewsWorld. The rise of malware-as-a-service represents a transformative challenge in the world of cybersecurity. It has democratized cybercrime and expanded the scope of threats. Legacy Malware Thriving in Modern Attacks The Darktrace report noted that many MaaS tools, such as Amadey and Raspberry Robin, have used multiple malware families from prior years. This shows that while MaaS strains often adapt their TTPs from one campaign to the next, many strains remain unchanged yet continue to achieve success. It added that some security teams and organizations are still falling short in defending their environments. The continued success of old malware strains indicates that many organizations still have significant vulnerabilities in their security environments, maintained Frank Downs, senior director of proactive services at BlueVoyant, an enterprise cybersecurity company in New York City. This could be due to outdated systems, unpatched software, or a lack of comprehensive security measures, he told TechNewsWorld. The persistence of these older threats suggests that some organizations may not be investing adequately in cybersecurity defenses or are failing to follow best practices for system maintenance and updates. Roger Grimes, a defense evangelist for KnowBe4, a security awareness training provider in Clearwater, Fla., added that most anti-malware detection software is not as good as its vendors claim. Organizations need to know they cannot rely on malware detection as being even close to 100% effective, and they need to respond and defend accordingly, he told TechNewsWorld. Anti-malware software alone will not save most organizations. All organizations need multiple defenses across multiple layers to best detect and defend. Double Dipping Digital Desperadoes Another finding in the report was that double extortion was becoming prevalent among ransomware strains. With double extortion, malicious actors will not only encrypt their targets data but also exfiltrate sensitive files with the threat of publication if the ransom is not paid. Double-extortion started in November 2019 and reached levels over 90% of all ransomware using this strategy within a few years, Grimes said. Its popular because even victims with a really good backup arent negating the entirety of the risk, he continued. The percentage of victims paying ransoms has gone down significantly over time, but the ones who are paying are paying far more, many times to protect the stolen confidential data from being released publicly or used against them in a future attack by the same attacker, he said. Matthew Corwin, managing director of Guidepost Solutions, a global security, compliance, and investigations firm, added that the threat of double extortion makes the need for a data loss prevention program even more critical for organizations. DLP implementation for all endpoints and other cloud assets should include data classification, policy enforcement, real-time blocking, quarantining, and alerting, he told TechNewsWorld. Attacking the Edge Darktrace also reported that malicious actors continued to execute during the first six months of the year mass-exploitation of vulnerabilities in edge infrastructure devices, such as Ivanti Connect Secure, JetBrains TeamCity, FortiClient Enterprise Management Server, and Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS. Initial compromises of these systems can act as a springboard for malicious actors to conduct further activities, such as tooling, network reconnaissance, and lateral movement, the report explained. By compromising edge devices, attackers can gain a strategic foothold in the network, allowing them to monitor and intercept data traffic as it passes through these points, Downs explained. This means that a carefully exploited edge device can provide attackers with access to a wealth of corporate information, including sensitive data, without the need to compromise multiple internal systems, he continued. This not only makes the attack more efficient but also increases the potential impact, as edge devices often handle significant data flows to and from the network. Morgan Wright, chief security advisor at SentinelOne, an endpoint protection company in Mountain View, Calif., added, Many organizations are most likely behind in patching vulnerable devices, like firewalls, VPNs, or email gateways. It doesnt help when there are numerous and critical vulnerabilities, he told TechNewsWorld. For attackers, its the digital equivalent of shooting fish in a barrel. KnowBes Grimes agreed that maintenance of edge infrastructure devices is often lax. Sadly, edge devices have for decades been among the most unpatched devices and software in our environments, he said. Most IT shops spend the bulk of their patching effort on servers and workstations. Attackers look at and exploit edge devices because they are less likely to be patched and often contain shared administrative credentials. DMARC End Run After analyzing 17.8 million emails, the Darktrace researchers also discovered that 62% could bypass DMARC verification checks. DMARC is designed to verify that an email message is from the domain it claims its from, but it has limitations. Scammers can create domains with names close to a well-known brand and DMARC them. So as long as they can sneak the fake look-alike domain past victims, their emails will get past DMARC checks, Grimes explained. The alarming statistics in the latest Darktrace Half-Year Threat Report highlight the need for organizations to adopt a multi-layered approach to email security, incorporating advanced AI-driven anomaly detection and behavioral analysis to complement traditional security measures, added Stephen Kowski, field CTO of SlashNext, a computer and network security company, in Pleasanton, Calif. This holistic strategy can help identify and mitigate sophisticated phishing attacks that evade DMARC and other conventional defenses, he told TechNewsWorld. By continuously monitoring and adapting to evolving threat patterns, organizations can significantly enhance their email security posture. Dror Liwer, co-founder of Coro, a cloud-based cybersecurity company based in Tel Aviv, Israel, contends that most of the reports findings point to the same cause. Citing a report released by Coro earlier this year, he noted that 73% of security teams admit to missing or ignoring critical alerts. Too many disparate tools, each needing maintenance, regular updates, and monitoring, lead to security teams dealing with administration instead of protection, he told TechNewsWorld. Wright, though, suggested the findings might point to a bigger industry flaw. With all the money being spent on cybersecurity and the threats that continue to proliferate, it begs the question are we spending enough money on cybersecurity, or just spending it in the wrong places? he asked. What just happened? The US Department of Justice's nearly year-long case against Google over its dominance in the search engine market has reached a dramatic end. The case could drastically alter how numerous devices and web browsers choose their default search engines, though the full extent of the impending effects remains unclear. A US judge has ruled that Google's massive payments to various tech companies in exchange for favoring its search engine constitute an illegal monopoly. The company was determined to have exploited its market dominance to gain an unfair advantage over the competition. The scale of Google's payments to maintain exclusivity agreements emerged after the Department of Justice opened its case against the company last September. Google paid companies like Apple, Samsung, and Mozilla a share of advertising revenue from its search engine to ensure that it remained the default on Apple devices, Android phones, and numerous web browsers. In 2021 alone, the payments exceeded $21 billion. Most of the amount, around $19 billion, went to Apple in exchange for making iPhones, iPads, and Macs default to Google upon initial setup. Other recipients included Samsung, LG, Motorola, AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Mozilla, Opera, and UCWeb. The judge's opinion claims that the policy made it harder for alternative search engines like Bing or DuckDuckGo to gain a foothold among users. The opinion directly compared Google's behavior to the infamous late 1990s case involving Microsoft's interference in the then-emerging web browser market. In its defense, Google argued that its search engine is simply the best (though many users might disagree these days). Moreover, users can switch to different default search engines. Statements from early in the trial also revealed that Apple felt it had no viable alternative, as Microsoft's Bing the next-largest search engine controlled less than 10 percent of the market. Apple briefly considered acquiring Bing but ultimately used the prospect of the deal to convince Google to increase its payments. The judge's opinion acknowledged the engineering prowess required for the company to attain its dominance. Still, the judge also noted that Google couldn't satisfactorily explain why the payments were necessary. The company's policy of disabling chat history and deleting logs also hurt its defense by drawing accusations of a coverup from the DOJ. Google's defeat in the case could have huge implications for how devices and browsers interact with search engines going forward. The big picture: Microsoft has taken heat over security issues in its products for years. Despite CEO Satya Nadella making security a "top priority" in the wake of major cyberattacks and criticism from the feds back in May, it didn't stop the CrowdStrike fiasco from happening. More work was clearly needed, so the company is now doubling down by tying security directly to employee performance reviews and compensation. In an internal memo obtained by The Verge, Microsoft's chief people officer Kathleen Hogan outlined the company's new "Security Core Priority" policy, which builds on the previous "Secure Future" initiative ushered in by Nadella. She re-emphasized the CEO's words in the memo, saying that when faced with a trade-off, employees have their marching orders: "security above all else." However, the new policy adds some more teeth behind the push. A lack of focus on security could directly impact promotions, salary increases, and bonuses for Microsoft's workforce. Microsoft essentially wants employees to do more than simply check boxes on compliance requirements. It expects employees to bake security into every aspect of their work and hold themselves accountable. All staff will need to demonstrate how they prioritized and improved security through their regular performance conversations, tracked in the company's "Connect" tool. For those on the technical side of building products, it means security gets integrated from the initial design phase rather than tacked on as an afterthought. It's not just developers in the crosshairs, though. Microsoft is strengthening its commitment to the "security-first mindset" across the entire workforce, regardless of role. Even executives will have specific security deliverables tied to their Connect reviews. The stakes are high for Microsoft as it rebrands itself as a security-focused company after years of being battered by malware, vulnerabilities, and data breaches. After all, the company's software and services like Windows, Office, and Azure run mission-critical systems across enterprises and governments worldwide. Losing that trust could be catastrophic. The new policy formalizes security as a core priority on par with Microsoft's existing mandates around diversity and inclusion. "The Security Core Priority is not a check-the-box compliance exercise; it is a way for every employee and manager to commit to and be accountable for prioritizing security, and a way for us to codify your contributions and to recognize you for your impact. We all must act with a security-first mindset, speak up, and proactively look for opportunities to ensure security in everything we do." The changes are already impacting some Microsoft products and services. Basic Authentication for personal Outlook accounts gets dropped next month in a move to push people to use Modern Authentication. Meanwhile, the lightweight Outlook web app gets retired on August 19 to eliminate any potential security risks. In brief: Another hardware industry has rebounded following the economically challenging previous few years. Tablet shipments, which experienced a nearly 20% decline early in 2023, saw record year-over-year growth in the most recent quarter. Apple remained the top global vendor, while Chinese brands Huawei and Xiaomi experienced massive yearly increases. Worldwide tablet shipments reached 34.4 million in Q2 2024, up from 28.2 million during the same period a year earlier. That marks a record yearly growth rate of 34.4%, according to IDC. The analyst firm attributes the excellent quarter to product refreshes, a replacement cycle, and inventory replenishment. Apple was a big factor here, having launched its first iPad with an OLED display and the all-new M4 chip in May. It also announced a new iPad Air that features the M2 chip and, for the first time, is available in a 13-inch form factor. You can read our examination of that excellent tablet right here. While the overall tablet shipment numbers were the highest we've seen in a while, they can't compete with the enormous figures from the pandemic many industries exploded at the time as most of the world was locked indoors. However, IDC points out that the tablet volumes are comparable to pre-pandemic levels: 32.5 million units were shipped in Q2 2019. As always, Apple remains the top tablet vendor thanks to the 12.3 million iPad shipments in Q2 2024. The new iPad Pro and Air models helped its yearly growth reach 18.2% as it holds on to a massive 35.8% of the market. Rival Samsung holds the second place with 6.9 million units shipped, capturing a 20.1% share of the market. The Galaxy Tab S10 series, featuring the Galaxy Tab S10, Galaxy Tab S10+, and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, is expected to launch later this year. This new lineup should help boost Samsung's shipment numbers. Company 2Q24 Unit Shipments 2Q24 Market Share 2Q23 Unit Shipments 2Q23 Market Share Year-Over-Year Growth 1. Apple 12.3 35.8% 10.4 37.0% 18.2% 2. Samsung 6.9 20.1% 5.8 20.6% 18.6% 3. Lenovo 2.5 7.3% 2.1 7.6% 16.7% 4. Huawei 2.3 6.8% 1.7 5.9% 40.3% 5. Xiaomi 2.0 5.8% 1.0 3.7% 94.7% Others 8.4 24.3% 7.1 25.2% 17.6% Total 34.4 100.0% 28.2 100.0% 22.1% Fourth place Huawei saw a massive 40.3% annual growth rate. The sanctioned firm recently introduced the MatePad 11.5S, which has performed excellently in China. The biggest yearly growth belonged to Xiaomi. Its shipments were up 94.7% during the second quarter, aided by significant gains in Russia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and other countries. "Long-term gains for the market depend on the vendors' ability to build devices that can carve a niche for tablets one that includes innovation and differentiation," said Anuroopa Nataraj, senior research analyst with IDC's Mobility and Consumer Device Trackers. Thinking about getting a new tablet? Make sure to check out our Best Tablets of 2024 guide to see our top picks. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. The remains of military servicemen who went missing two years ago in Azerbaijan's Lachin were found in Kalbajar, Trend reports via joint statement from the country's State Security Service, the Prosecutor General's Office and the State Commission for Prisoners of War, Hostages and Missing Citizens. According to the statement, as a result of search work carried out by the relevant government agencies represented in the State Commission of Azerbaijan for Prisoners of War, Hostages and Missing Citizens, on July 3, 2024, on the territory of Yuzbulag in Istisu village of the Kalbajar district, remains of presumably two Azerbaijani servicemen were discovered and confiscated. "The examinations conducted by the Forensic Medical Examination and Pathological Anatomy Union of the Ministry of Health of Azerbaijan and the Genetic Research Center of the Main Military Medical Directorate of the State Security Service of Azerbaijan, established that the remains belong to Azerbaijani Army soldiers - Farid Mammadov and Firdovsi Abdullayev, both born in 2003, who went missing on March 3, 2022, in the Lachin district after getting lost due to a sudden change in weather conditions and a snowstorm in a high mountainous area with difficult terrain. Comprehensive investigative activities, forensic medical, and criminal investigations determined that these servicemen went missing on March 3, 2022, in the Lachin district due to a sudden change in weather conditions and a snowstorm in a high mountainous and impassable area and died from freezing as a result of prolonged exposure to low temperatures. On August 5, 2024, during a meeting at the State Commission, the relatives of the missing servicemen were informed about the discovery of the soldiers' remains. The necessary arrangements for the burial of the remains of Farid Mammadov and Firdovsi Abdullayev in cooperation with relevant state bodies are underway. The public will be additionally informed about the time and place of the funerals," the joint statement added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel TL;DR: The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals blocked the FCC's attempt to reinstate net neutrality, ruling that ISPs will likely win their case against the FCC's overreach. The court stated that net neutrality is a significant issue requiring congressional authorization. Jessica Rosenthal, presiding FCC Chair, pledged to keep fighting for the rules. The FCC's efforts to reinforce net neutrality in the US received a setback last week when the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals blocked the agency's plans to reinstate Obama-era regulations that classify internet service providers as "common carriers." Explaining the rationale behind its decision to issue the temporary stay order, the court stated that ISPs would likely win their legal case against the FCC, claiming it overstepped its authority in reintroducing net neutrality laws. The court added that the FCC cannot unilaterally impose the proposed restrictions on broadband providers and will need congressional authority to implement the new rules. In its unanimous decision, the three-judge panel stated that the final rule raises a "major question" and that the commission did not meet the stringent criteria for implementing such regulations. The court further noted that net neutrality laws require explicit authorization from Congress. "The American public wants an internet that is fast, open, and fair. Today's decision by the Sixth Circuit is a setback but we will not give up the fight for net neutrality," Chairwoman Rosenworcel on Sixth Circuit stay of the FCC's net neutrality rules. The FCC (@FCC) August 1, 2024 The decision comes nearly five months after the commission voted to reinstate open internet rules adopted in 2015. The 3-2 vote in April was along party lines, with the three Democratic commissioners, including Chair Jessica Rosenworcel, voting in favor of the proposal while the two Republican commissioners voted against it. Former FCC Chair Ajit Pai repealed the regulation in 2017 in a similarly lopsided vote. Following the ruling, Commissioner Rosenworcel issued a terse statement. "The American public wants an internet that is fast, open, and fair," she said. "Today's decision by the Sixth Circuit is a setback but we will not give up the fight for net neutrality." Internet service providers were classified as common carriers under the FCC's Obama-era Open Internet Order of 2015. The order also introduced net neutrality rules to ensure an open internet for all users. When the FCC overturned these rules two years later, the decision was roundly criticized by net neutrality advocates and hailed by internet service providers. The principle of net neutrality states that all internet traffic must be treated the same, irrespective of its source or destination. It also bars the creation of "internet fast lanes" that could offer a massive advantage to large companies to the detriment of their smaller competitors. Net neutrality regulations aim to prevent anti-consumer behavior, like the so-called "zero-rating" schemes involving ISPs arbitrarily exempting particular websites and services from data caps to boost their traffic. A hot potato: Mozilla has a close relationship with Google, as most of Firefox's revenue comes from the agreement keeping Google as the browser's default search engine. However, the search giant is now officially a monopoly, and a future court decision could have an unprecedented impact on Mozilla's ability to keep things "business as usual." United States District Judge Amit Mehta found Google guilty of building a monopolistic position in web search. The Mountain View corporation spent billions of dollars becoming the leading search provider for computing platforms and web browsers on PC and mobile devices. Most of the $21 billion spent went to Apple in exchange for setting Google as the default search engine on iPhone, iPad, and Mac systems. The judge will now need to decide on a penalty for the company's actions, including the potential of forcing Google to stop payments to its search "partners completely," which could have dire consequences for smaller companies like Mozilla. Its most recent financials show Mozilla gets $510 million out of its $593 million in total revenue from its Google partnership. This precarious financial position is a side effect of its deal with Alphabet, which made Google the search engine default for newer Firefox installations. The open-source web browser has experienced a steady market share decline over the past few years. Meanwhile, Mozilla management was paid millions to develop a new "vision" of a theoretical future with AI chatbots. Mozilla Corporation, the wholly owned subsidiary of Mozilla Foundation managing Firefox development, could find itself in a severe struggle for revenue if Google's money suddenly dried up. Apple, one of the world's largest companies with many revenue sources, would likely withstand the financial hit if Google had to stop paying to get its search engine on Cupertino's devices. Conversely, Mozilla would not likely survive the hit, jeopardizing Firefox development. The open-source community could adopt the Red Panda browser for now, which has happened with other big, popular software projects. For now, Mozilla is reviewing the court's decision and considering the potential impact on its business prospects. It says it has always championed competition in the search industry and will continue to offer a range of search options, including Google and its competitors. The court could also penalize Google in other ways, giving Mozilla at least a few more years of revenue and time to develop an exit strategy if it comes to that. Artificial intelligence startup Groq has landed $640 million in its latest funding round, further fueling its hopes of competing with Nvidia. Blackrock was said to have spearheaded the latest investment round. Neuberger Berman, Type One Ventures, Cisco, KDDI, and Samsung Catalyst Fund were also involved in the participation. The funding round for Groq, totaling more than $1 billion and valuing the company at $2.8 billion, is seen as a big success. Initially, Groq aimed to raise $300 million at a slightly lower valuation of $2.5 billion. It increased Groq's previous valuation by more than two times, which was approximately $1 billion in April 2021, after the company secured $300 million in funding from Tiger Global Management and D1 Capital Partners. Groq announced today that Yann LeCun, Meta's top AI scientist, will act as a technical consultant, while Stuart Pann, former head of Intel's foundry business and ex-CIO at HP, will become the startup's new COO. LeCun's selection is somewhat surprising, considering Meta's focus on its own AI processors - yet it provides Groq with a strong supporter in a competitive industry. Groq Explainer Groq, as per Tech Crunch, came out of hiding in 2016, is developing an LPU (language processing unit) inference engine. The company states that their LPUs can operate current generative AI models like OpenAI's ChatGPT and GPT-4o but 10 times faster and using only one-tenth of the energy. Jonathan Ross, the CEO of Groq, is known for his contribution to the creation of the tensor processing unit (TPU), Google's specialized AI accelerator chip for model training and implementation. Ross and Douglas Wightman partnered up nearly ten years ago to establish Groq, with Wightman being an entrepreneur and former engineer from Alphabet's X moonshot lab at Google. Groq offers GroqCloud, a developer platform powered by LPU, which includes "open" models such as Meta's Llama 3.1 family, Google's Gemma, OpenAI's Whisper, and Mistral's Mixtral. It also provides an API for customers to integrate its chips into cloud instances. Nvidia Competitors There are numerous competitors, like Groq, attempting to outperform Nvidia. In a recent ISC conference presentation, Samsung inadvertently disclosed its intentions for a RISC-V CPU/AI accelerator. This accelerator could be created to directly rival Nvidia's leading AI chip manufacturer, the H-series GPU. The incident took place at a Unified Acceleration Foundation event named "Unlocking the Next 35 Years of Software for HPC and AI," which featured mention of a Samsung "RISC-V CPU/AI accelerator." This has sparked speculation about the South Korean tech company's plans to integrate RISC-V architecture into its upcoming technologies, specifically the Mach-1 AI accelerator processor, scheduled for launch in the first half of 2025. Samsung is part of the steering committee for the Unified Acceleration Foundation (UXL). In simpler terms, UXL designs software to enhance AI accelerators that serve as options for Nvidia's CUDA and do not rely on Nvidia's GPUs. Samsung officially introduced its AI processor, Mach-1, on March 25. Samsung has discussed memory processing extensively. The AI chip is set to be released in early 2025. It will be released after entering production by the end of the year. The target market is expected to consist of edge applications that have low power consumption needs. Tesla is reportedly testing out a new kind of Cybertrucks, one that is equipped with a dry-cathode battery, offering new advantages in the electric vehicle battery industry. The car, with Tesla's cutting-edge internal dry cathode 4680 cells, is currently being tested. The latest model is expected to improve technology and lower costs. It is anticipated that the dry-cathode technology will improve the range and performance of the Cybertruck while also cutting production costs. Cole Otto, a Senior Manufacturing Engineer at Tesla, has revealed information about the latest car in a post on LinkedIn. Otto stated that the electric vehicle company has started testing vehicles using its innovative dry cathode 4680 cells developed in-house. Five years ago, Tesla purchased Maxwell in order to utilize its dry electrode coating technology in the manufacturing of battery cells. At that moment, Tesla was only making battery cells with Panasonic, but the purchase showed its intention to start producing cells internally. Auto Evolution reported that Maxwell created the dry electrode coating process for its supercapacitor manufacturing, which Tesla believed could be adapted for producing battery cells. Joe Tegtmeyer, a longtime observer of Giga Texas, was the first to share the images of Tesla's initial dry cathode Cybertruck. Obtaining Maxwell's dry battery electrode manufacturing technology was intended to greatly decrease the costs of manufacturing electrodes. The cost of acquiring Maxwell would be balanced out by the savings made in electrode manufacturing in a short period of time. Read Also : Tesla Profits Continues to Fall for the Second Quarter of 2024 Tesla vs. Phantom Drain Tesla is still working on enhancing battery life, with the recent focus being on phantom drain, a common issue for electric car owners where the battery loses charge while the car is parked. A new update for the mobile app is designed to greatly decrease this energy waste. Phantom drain, also called vampire drain, is the electricity lost by an electric vehicle when it is not in use and stationary. Multiple factors play a role in this occurrence, such as the car's different connectivity features and the battery's thermal management system. Tesla is escalating efforts to combat phantom drain with a new mobile app update. Version 4.35.0 of the Tesla app introduces a significant update: the app will not awaken the car when opened anymore. Although the update may not make a big difference on its own, when applied to Tesla's extensive fleet, the overall impact is significant. Just a small 0.5 kWh per car saved each week adds up to gigawatt-hours of energy saved yearly across all cars. Rivian vs. Phantom Drain Not only Tesla owners, but Rivian owners also encountered the phantom drain problem in the past. Nevertheless, with the most recent changes, their situation began to improve. Rivian's head of software, Wassym Bensaid, urged users to update their vehicles not just to prevent issues, but also to save more energy for upcoming journeys. According to the same report, approximately 1 to 3 percent of the battery's State of Charge was depleted while the Rivian EV was stationary. Bensaid discovered multiple grievances regarding this matter on Reddit. He confirmed that the team has successfully addressed the major differences in the current drain. While Apple is offering 'Environment' for Vision Pro users to get a change of scenery, The Walt Disney Company, via Disney+, also offers these experiences, now debuting its fifth one on the XR headset. The latest one from Disney+ was made in collaboration with National Geographic, the subsidiary company part of its 21st Century Fox acquisition it completed in 2019. In this latest offer, Disney+ is moving away from its fictional immersive Environments with this latest release that centers on a real place on Earth. Apple Vision Pro Environment Sees New Disney+ Addition, Its Fifth Release Apple Vision Pro users are now sharing the latest Environment to access on the headset, but this is via the Disney+ app which offers a snowy landscape for users to enjoy while streaming. This Environment is the fifth offer from Disney+ for Vision Pro users to enjoy and is only accessible when the streaming platform app is launched on the headset. There are already five Environment options for users to choose from via Disney+, with its latest centering on 'Iceland' which is based on the Thingvellir National Park. This specific location in Iceland is known as its national treasure, representing a geological significance to the country and a massive part of its history. Read Also : Apple Vision Pro's Cheaper Version to Bring Bigger Displays with Lower Resolutions with New OLEDoS Thingvellir is Now on Vision Pro via Disney+ and Nat Geo Disney+ and its subsidiary, National Geographic, co-developed this new Vision Pro environment which adds to its list of available Environments. The other offers on Disney+'s app Environment include the Avengers Tower, Disney+ Theater, Scare Floor, Tatooine, and finally, Iceland, to be the backdrop when streaming. Vision Pro Environments and Immersive Experiences One of the most interesting features of Apple's Vision Pro is to move away from the mixed-reality experience and go into full virtual reality mode (VR), with the use of Environments. In late July, Apple introduced a new Environment for users to enjoy called 'Lake Vrangla,' centering on a remote lake covered by fog, but it is not a real place and is only based on a lake near Oslo, Norway. Cupertino highlighted immersive features to be the center of its Vision Pro, offering a different kind of experience that offers the best of both AR and VR in its spatial computer. Apart from that, Apple has also debuted immersive movies for users to enjoy on the XR headset, with a new immersive movie available to access for free via the Apple TV app. Apps being transformed to fit Vision Pro's offers via visionOS, as well as self-made Apple experiences for users have all collectively helped in delivering immersive experiences on the headset. Now, Disney+ is expanding on what users may experience on the Vision Pro, with the new Iceland Environment co-developed with National Geographic now available via the streaming app. Elon Musk's reign of changes for X is not yet over, as a new report revealed that the social media company is moving out of its iconic San Francisco, California headquarters soon. This was said to have been announced and confirmed by X's current CEO, Linda Yaccarino, telling its employees that they will soon vacate the San Francisco office and make their move. There are still no official announcements to the public regarding this move, but the X CEO already announced to employees that it will take place in the coming weeks. X to Officially Leave San Francisco, Twitter's OG Headquarters The latest happening on X's end is its plan to reportedly leave San Francisco behind, best known as the original Twitter headquarters, with the company known for staying there for almost two decades. According to The New York Times report, the announcement was made by X CEO Linda Yaccarino, and has confirmed to employees that they will move to new locations. Its upcoming move remains unconfirmed by the X owner, Elon Musk, and this was after the bold claim from the tech mogul about moving out from its California office in favor of Austin, Texas. Since 2022, Musk has seen run-ins with San Francisco's authorities for X's operations, including the giant X sign atop the building, as well as the lawsuit it faced from being unable to pay rent. Read Also : X Users Can Prevent Grok From Training on Their Posts Where is X's Operations Going After Leaving SF? It was revealed that Yaccarino's announcements pointed out various locations for X's departure from San Francisco, with the first one centering on sharing xAI's offices in Palo Alto. On the other hand, it was also revealed by the X CEO that other employees will be working in several locations in San Jose, CA, but did not mention Musk's wish to move X to Texas. Twitter's San Francisco HQ and Elon Musk Since being founded by Jack Dorsey in mid-2006, Twitter has found its home in San Francisco, California, and it is known to be close to the heart of Silicon Valley, just south of the Bay Area. This was also the same home of Twitter when Elon Musk took over in 2022, and there has been a previous controversy about its missed rent payments to its landlord under the billionaire. However, it is known that Musk has since favored Texas as the center of his businesses, and this stems from a move in 2021 where the tech mogul shifted Tesla's headquarters from Palo Alto, CA to Austin. Earlier this year, the same move was made by Musk when he officially transferred SpaceX's incorporation to Texas from Delaware, with its headquarters soon following. Elon Musk's Texas operations already include several of his top companies, with Tesla in Austin and SpaceX which has a massive facility known as Starbase found in Boca Chica. It was only last month when Musk made a massive announcement of moving X's HQ over to Austin, TX, and now, its CEO is telling the employees that they are leaving San Francisco soon. The upcoming NASA and SpaceX launch of the Crew-9 mission heading to the International Space Station (ISS) may be delayed according to the latest reports. It was revealed that the reason behind this would be because of Boeing's Starliner spacecraft which is still docked to the ISS, and NASA has yet to reach an agreement with Boeing regarding its return flight. It was regarded that there might be a risk that Starliner brings should it proceed to its return mission, especially as it was not yet decided by the Flight Readiness Review, also because of delays. NASA, SpaceX Crew-9 Launch to Face Delay Because of Starliner According to the latest report by Ars Technica, NASA and its officials are already deciding on whether to delay the upcoming Crew-9 mission that would be fulfilled by SpaceX to a later date. There are still no official announcements from NASA regarding this delay, as it is currently being decided by the agency if the Crew-9 mission will take place this August 18. It was revealed that from August 18, Crew-9's launch would take place come September 24, with SpaceX's Crew Dragon and Falcon to bring the latest batch to the ISS. This includes the likes of NASA's Zena Cardman, Nick Hague, and Stephanie Wilson, alongside Roscosmos cosmonaut, Alexander Gorbunov who would all fulfill a six-month stay. Read Also : Boeing Starliner Remains in the ISS, Return Flight Still Unknown Despite Passing Tests What is Happening Over at Boeing Starliner's Return? It was revealed that NASA is still deciding on whether Boeing's Starliner would make its return to the planet, with the Flight Readiness Review last week seeing delays. There is still an important factor, centering on the small reaction control system of the Starliner, and should it fail if it has not yet reached a safe distance, Boeing's spacecraft may collide with the ISS. NASA's Commercial Crew: Boeing and SpaceX NASA's famed Commercial Crew program has two main third-party space companies that will fulfill its missions, with Boeing and SpaceX selected by the agency for expanding the US' space race campaign. Boeing has not yet fulfilled any of the missions under the contract as its Starliner spacecraft is still in its testing stage, and it most recently docked to the ISS after facing several issues in its flight, and is staying there until it is given the green light. On the other hand, Elon Musk's SpaceX has fulfilled the missions assigned by NASA under the Commercial Crew since its first outing in 2020. Now, it is preparing for an August launch window for its upcoming mission, Crew-9, which will bring another batch of astronauts and other crew members to the ISS, famously being prioritized by SpaceX over the Polaris Dawn. Despite being SpaceX's top priority now and pushing back other missions for Crew-9, another mission stands in its way, and this is the much-awaited return of Starliner together with Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. A possible delay to NASA and SpaceX's Crew-9 may soon be announced, pushing back because of Starliner, and targeting late September for the mission. LACHIN, Azerbaijan, August 6. Azerbaijan's Lachin district has organized the "Youth for a Green World" 5th Summer Camp of Diaspora Youth, with Sandy Salem, who traveled from Cairo, Egypt, at the invitation of the State Committee for Work with Diaspora of Azerbaijan, among the participants, Trend reports. Sandy Salem was born in Cairo to parents from Azerbaijan and Egypt in 2004. While at Lachin today, she took a tour of the city. Not only is Sandy a doctor by training, but she has also won an international beauty pageant and is the youngest peace ambassador for ICESCO. Speaking with Trend, Salem shared her impressions of Karabakh, noting that her heart is close to Azerbaijan. "I have traveled to Karabakh several times, but this is my first visit to Lachin. A month ago, I was in Shusha as a young peace ambassador representing Azerbaijan at the international 'By Youth for Youth' forum, organized by CESCO. Before that, I visited Shusha with other Azerbaijanis living abroad, organized by the Diaspora Committee," she said. Salem expressed that every time she sets foot on Azerbaijani land, she is filled with wonderful emotions and a deep sense of pride for her country. "I participated in an international beauty contest where contestants were asked to showcase their talents. I chose to perform our national dance to the 'Karabakh is Azerbaijan' composition. One of the jury members was Armenian, and he gave me a low score because I ended my performance by proclaiming 'Karabakh is Azerbaijan' and raising the Azerbaijani flag. At that time, there was a war going on, and when I was later asked if I would have done the same knowing there was an Armenian on the jury, I said I would have shouted 'Karabakh is Azerbaijan' a thousand times more," she added. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Saudi Aramco quarterly profit dips as output stays low Riyadh, Aug 6 (AFP) Aug 06, 2024 Saudi oil giant Aramco on Tuesday reported net profit of $29.07 billion in the second quarter, a slight drop from the same period last year as output remained subdued. The decrease of 3.4 percent "mainly reflects the impact of lower crude oil volumes sold and weakening refining margins", the company said in a statement posted to the Saudi stock exchange. Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest crude exporter, is currently producing roughly nine million barrels per day (bpd), well below its capacity of 12 million bpd. Production averaged 8.8 million bpd in June, Riyadh-based firm Jadwa Investment said last week. The relatively low figure reflects cuts dating back to October 2022, when the OPEC+ bloc of oil producers that Riyadh co-leads with Moscow announced it would reduce output by two million bpd to boost prices. In April 2023, several OPEC+ members announced they would further slash production by more than one million bpd, and in June 2023, Riyadh announced an additional voluntary cut of one million bpd. "Output will remain at similar levels until at least October", at which point an OPEC+ agreement announced in June 2024 will allow "for gradual monthly increases", Jadwa said. Aramco is the jewel of the Saudi economy and the main source of revenue for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 reform agenda, which aims to set the Gulf kingdom up for a prosperous post-oil future. The firm's profits help allow Saudi Arabia to finance flagship projects including NEOM, the futuristic mega-city being built in the desert, a giant airport in Riyadh and major tourism and leisure developments. The IMF said in April that, at current production levels, Saudi Arabia's fiscal break-even oil price would be $96.2 per barrel in 2024. Brent, the international benchmark, was trading at $76.43 per barrel on Tuesday after Monday's global stock market rout fuelled by US recession fears. Yet Aramco chief executive Amin Nasser told reporters that Aramco was still "positive about the outlook for global oil demand", pointing to "strong" demand from China. "The market in my view is overreacting and the fundamentals do not support the drop in prices that we are witnessing today," Nasser said. "I think the market is reading too much into the short-term responses to the news coming from the US with regards to the number of jobs." - Steady dividend - The government's stake in Aramco, one of the world's biggest companies by market capitalisation, is around 81.5 percent. Aramco's initial public offering in 2019, the biggest flotation in history, raised $29.4 billion, and a secondary offering this year of nearly 1.7 billion shares fetched $12.35 billion. Aramco announced last year it would start paying a performance-based dividend in addition to its base dividend. In May, the firm announced base dividend payouts for the first quarter totalling $20.3 billion and a performance-linked dividend distribution of $10.8 billion to be paid in the second quarter. Those payments will be extended for another quarter and Aramco "expects to declare industry-leading dividends of $124.2 billion in 2024", Tuesday's statement said. "We have delivered market-leading performance once again, with strong earnings and cash flows in the first half of the year," Nasser said. "Leveraging those strong earnings, we continued to deliver a base dividend that is sustainable and progressive." - Cash cow - Aramco reported record profits in 2022 after Russia's invasion of Ukraine sent oil prices soaring, allowing Saudi Arabia to record its first budget surplus in nearly a decade. But the cash cow saw its profits drop by a quarter last year because of lower oil prices and production cuts, and profits in the first quarter of this year were down 14.5 percent. In January, Aramco said it had been instructed to abandon a plan to increase production capacity to 13 million barrels per day, up from its current level of 12 million bpd. Analysts said the surprise announcement could reflect a lack of confidence in demand, although Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said it was motivated by the transition to cleaner fuels. Saudi Arabia has pledged to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2060, a statement that has drawn intense scepticism from environmental activists. Aramco has vowed to achieve "operational net-zero" carbon emissions by 2050, which does not include the emissions from customers burning its products. Nasser told reporters on Tuesday that oil and gas demand "will not peak any time soon given the vital role that hydrocarbons continue to play in the global economy". rcb/kir Headline-grabbing Austria climate activists end protests Vienna, Aug 6 (AFP) Aug 06, 2024 A group of Austrian climate activists who attacked a Klimt masterpiece and regularly blocked roads said Tuesday that they were ending their protests. Last Generation Austria said they struggled to make their point against "ignorance... death threats and fines of tens of thousands of euros", and despaired of the Austrian government's inaction on climate change. "We no longer see any prospect of success," the group said in a statement. The group regularly made headlines over the past two years blocking streets and pouring black liquid over a screen protecting Gustav Klimt's masterpiece "Death And Life" in Vienna's Leopold Museum. Last month they joined protests to disrupt traffic at several airports in Europe just days after the bloc's climate monitor registered the hottest day ever globally, with the daily average temperature inching up to 17.15 Celsius (62.87 Fahrenheit). They had also called for climate protection to be enshrined as a fundamental right in the Austrian constitution. Austria's ruling conservative People's Party (OeVP) welcomed the "dissolution" of what it called the "extremist group", which has some 280 activists. "After numerous court cases, (they) have finally realised that Austria's streets are not a legal vacuum and that there is no fundamental right to their sabotage actions," it said. Chancellor Karl Nehammer said he always considered it a mistake to make people's everyday lives and "their journeys to work more difficult". "Nobody is above the law, no matter what their cause. It's good that this has come to an end!" he said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. But the group was equally scathing about Austria's leaders. "We realise that Austria wants to remain in fossil ignorance and thus accepts that it is partly responsible for the deaths of billions of people," its statement added. Contacted by AFP, the group said it would continue to raise awareness of climate change in Germany. bg/kym/fg LACHIN, Azerbaijan, August 6. I've come to Azerbaijan's Karabakh for the first time, and for me, these are moments of pride, Nasiba Mehdiyeva, a participant of the V Summer Camp for Diaspora Youth, master's student on international relations at a Hungarian university, told Trend. "I have organized various conferences at the UN on Karabakh, participated in international events in Turkiye, the UAE, and other countries. I thank our government for organizing this wonderful camp. I hope that after this, we will also hold various events with the youth. Karabakh is even more beautiful than I expected. I am studying diplomacy and will gain experience working in Europe and various other countries. After gaining experience, I want to use it by working in Azerbaijan," she said. To note, the V Summer Camp of Diaspora Youth "Youth for a Green World" is being held on the ancient Azerbaijani land in Lachin, organized by the State Committee for Work with the Diaspora together with the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, on August 17. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Discovery of tiny bone sheds light on mysterious 'hobbit' humans Paris, Aug 6 (AFP) Aug 06, 2024 The discovery of a tiny arm bone suggests that an ancient human dubbed "hobbits" only shrank down to their diminutive size after they arrived on an Indonesian island a million years ago, scientists said on Tuesday. Much about the pint-sized Homo floresiensis has been shrouded in mystery since the first fossils suggesting their existence were found on the island of Flores in 2003. These tool-using hominins are believed to have been living on the island as recently as 50,000 years ago, when our own species homo sapiens was already walking the Earth, including in nearby Australia. From some 60,000-year-old teeth and a jawbone found in an island cave, scientists had previously estimated the hobbits were around 1.06 metres (3.5 feet) tall. But the discovery of part of an upper arm bone as well as some teeth at an open-air island site on the island suggests some hobbits stood just one metre tall around 700,000 years ago, according to a study in the journal Nature Communications. The bone was so small, that at first the international team of researchers thought it must have been from a child. Study co-author Adam Brumm, an archaeologist at Australia's Griffith University, told AFP that it was the smallest humerus fossil of an adult hominin ever found. - 'Truly epic' - The discovery could tip the scales in a heated debate among scientists about how H.floresiensis became so small. One side argues that the hobbits -- nicknamed after the little heroes in JRR Tolkien's fantasy novels -- descended from an already small earlier hominin which arrived on Flores around a million years ago. Others believe that it was our ancestor Homo erectus, which were roughly our size and had spread throughout Asia, that became trapped on the island, only to then evolve into the smaller H.floresiensis over the next 300,000 years. The researchers behind the latest discovery believe it strongly supports the latter theory. These ancient humans "reduced drastically in body size according to a well known evolutionary phenomenon known as island dwarfism," Brumm said. Under this process, larger animals tend to shrink over time to adapt to their limited surroundings. The tropical island was home to other smaller-than-normal mammals, including a cow-sized relative of the elephant. The newly discovered teeth also look like smaller versions of those from Homo erectus, the researchers said. "If we are correct, it seems that Homo erectus was somehow able to cross formidable deep-sea barriers to reach isolated islands like Flores," Brumm said. "We don't know how they were doing this," he said, adding that "accidental 'rafting' on tsunami debris" was one possibility. Once these ancient humans were trapped on the island, they managed to survive for hundreds of thousands of years, evolving into "strange new forms," Brumm said. Mark Moore, an archaeologist at Australia's University of New England not involved in the study, said the discovery means "we can now confidently say" that the Homo erectus theory is the more likely scenario. Moore, who has studied the stone tools used by the hobbits, told AFP that this "technology did not shield our cousin species from the forces of biological evolution". That the hobbits changed so much over just 300,000 years was "a reminder of the power of natural selection," he added. "The evolutionary story of this group of hominins is truly epic." BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. Eight vocational education institutions are planned to be launched in Azerbaijan's Karabakh, the Director of the State Agency for Vocational Education Jeyhun Karamov told Trend. "An educational institution designed for 850 students is being built in Fuzuli city. We are engaged in the design of such institutions in Gubadli, Zangilan, Aghdam, and Shusha. Our idea is to ensure the correspondence of the vocational school in each district to the potential of that district. All our educational institutions will have specialties in green energy. The Shusha State Vocational Education Center will offer training in specialties such as stone monument restoration, artistic embroidery master, and musical instrument master. Specific benefits for those studying in vocational education institutions in Karabakh haven't yet been approved. We have also proposed to apply certain benefits to those returning and receiving education in vocational schools there," he said. To note, following the liberation of Azerbaijani lands from Armenian occupation in 2020, Azerbaijan launched a large-scale restoration process, covering the rebuilding of schools in the liberated territories. Thus, up to now, schools have been built and commissioned in the liberated Fuzuli, Lachin and Shusha cities, as well as Aghali, Talish, and Zabukh villages. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Google acted illegally to maintain a monopoly in online search, a US federal judge has found, in a landmark ruling insiders say will affect Australia, where Google commands more than 95 per cent of the search market. Judge Amit Mehta said the search engines $US26 billion ($40 billion) in payments to become the default option on smartphones and web browsers effectively blocked any other competitor from succeeding in the market. The ruling on Googles search dominance was the first antitrust decision of the modern internet era in a case against a technology giant. Credit: Getty Images Googles distribution agreements foreclose a substantial portion of the general search services market and impair rivals opportunities to compete, Mehta said in a 286-page ruling. By monopolising distribution on phones and browsers, Google had been able to consistently raise the prices of online advertising without consequences, Mehta said. In Rob McHaffies playful work, you may recognise the outlines of familiar people and places. Across painting, ceramic sculpture, collage and works on paper, the artist splashes colour and humour into everyday scenes. From elegant women with jacketed greyhounds to NGV buskers and families at the beach, McHaffie captures it all. Im trying to encapsulate the spirit of real people, he says. Whether its someone Ive encountered or someone close to me, Im always formulating a picture from someone that I know, and how their life or life experience influences me [The artworks] exist parallel to real life. Artist Rob McHaffie at his Castlemaine studio. Credit: Jason South Born and raised in Melbourne, McHaffie began his artistic career in the early 2000s, driven by a fascination with understanding other people through observation. His work takes stylistic inspiration from John Brack and David Hockney, as well as culturally from his wifes Thai heritage. Moving to Castlemaine with his young family in 2020 gave the artist even more to draw from. I started considering things that I hadnt felt licensed to consider, like painting the Australian landscape, he says. The more recent paintings bring in a fair bit of Castlemaines landscape and identity, and the type of person that I encounter around town The culture of the place is quite subtle, but kind of permeates everything. To the badlands of Brighton, where daily crime break-ins, robberies, car thefts and so on are sometimes met with indifference by the rest of Melbourne. Or even open hostility, if brand ambassador Bec Judd gets on the case and happens to post to social media about it. As if crime should be treated differently if victims are people in big houses. Anyway, no one is immune, not even members of Bayside City Council. City of Bayside Deputy Mayor Alex del Porto was a victim of crime last month. This masthead reported how councillor and former mayor Hanna El Mouallem in August last year raced home from his Dendy Deli eatery to find a man trying to break into his black Toyota SUV after his security cameras pinged an alert. He kept the incident secret until revealing it to The Age earlier this year. LACHIN, Azerbaijan, August 6. I want to act in the name of glorifying Azerbaijan, Nilufar Ibrahimi, an Azerbaijani student from Leipzig University, a participant in the V Summer Camp for Diaspora Youth, told Trend. She highlighted her constant interest in social activities. "After graduating from high school in Baku in 2020, I got the opportunity to visit the US as a finalist of the Future Leaders Exchange Program. Then I joined the local Association of Azerbaijani Alumni of US Universities. I'm actively working in two organizations: as the chair of the AIESEC (International Association of Students in Economics and Business) committee in Leipzig and a Young European Ambassador. AIESEC is a global platform for youth aimed at developing their leadership potential through practical experiences such as internships or volunteer opportunities. It's a non-governmental and non-profit organization created after World War II, in 1948 to establish peace between countries and is entirely youth-run for youth," said Ibrahimi. Besides, the Azerbaijani student pointed out that upon learning about the V Summer Camp of Diaspora Youth, she applied and joined the event. "I wanted to meet my compatriots living in different parts of the world and, of course, visit our liberated lands. The events are very interesting, and in the past few days, I have learned a lot of new things. After returning to Germany, I want to cooperate with the diaspora and act to glorify Azerbaijan. I recommend Azerbaijanis living abroad participate in the next summer camps," Ibrahimi added. To note, the V Summer Camp of Diaspora Youth "Youth for a Green World" is being held on the ancient Azerbaijani land in Lachin, organized by the State Committee for Work with the Diaspora together with the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, on August 17. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel That response, forget me, look after the others, was emblematic of the entire selfless approach taken by the Rats, and was the key to their extraordinary achievements. Loading It was the great ABC correspondent Chester Wilmot who best captured this spirit when he wrote these words from that windswept dusty hell on the southern shores of the Mediterranean. The spirit which has made Australia is the spirit which has held Tobruk, he typed. The inspiring and binding force in Australian life isnt tradition or nationalism or social revolution. Its quite a simple thing. Henry Lawson called it MATESHIP . . . the spirit which makes men stick together. In Australia, by sticking together, men have defied drought, bushfire and flood. In Tobruk theyve scorned hardship, danger and death, because no Digger would ever let his cobbers down. In Tobruk, for the first time in this war, the Germans were thrust back by a spirit that even tanks and dive-bombers could not conquer. Tom Pritchard VX23441, a young man with a larrikin spirit from Portland, Victoria, whose father fought in the famous battle of Hill 60 in the First World War, was no bit-player in the siege, but right in the thick of the action. When Italy joined the war on the side of the Germans in June 1940, Mussolinis forces in North Africa threatened the Suez Canal. To stop them, Australian forces were dispatched to secure the key Italian-held port of Tobruk to deny the Axis forces an obvious supply point in any mass eastern sweep to Egypt. The Australians of the Sixth Division captured Tobruk in late January 1941, with the signal to attack coming from a lieutenant of the 2/1st Pioneers: Go, you bastards! The Easter 1941 battle for Tobruk was a bitter encounter in which the headlong advance of German General Erwin Rommels Afrika Korps came to an abrupt halt. Credit: Fairfax Media And go those bastards did, overwhelming Italian positions after bitter fighting. A day later, the cable came from Cairo asking how many Italian prisoners there were, and the answer from the Australians made it into the official report given to British Prime Minister Winston Churchill: 20 acres of officers and 100 acres of other ranks! A desperate Adolf Hitler sent Rommel and his Afrika Korps to take it back. It was for Australias General Sir Leslie Morshead, commander of the fortress, to organise his initial forces, consisting of Australian infantry on the perimeter and British artillery on the inside, to withstand Rommels devastating Panzer tanks, infantry, artillery and Stuka bombers, a combination which had already devastated Europe. Morsheads key insistence was the Diggers dig in, to effectively live underground to be able to withstand the bullets, bombs and shelling, and only come out to repel attacks. But though they lived like rats, they fought like lions. The first battle royale took place in the early hours of April 14, 1941, as the Afrika Korps launched en masse, tanks rumbling forward, with infantry behind, attacking positions already shelled by artillery. There were many casualties, and Pritchard was one of the stretcher bearers of the 2/5th Field Ambulance going out under heavy fire to rush his fellow Diggers to aid stations. Bathed in blood, under fire, the stretcher bearers did their work, and when the smoke had cleared, the Afrika Korps had not only retreated, but no fewer than 16 of Rommels tanks had been destroyed, the first time in World War II the German army had been stopped. The Australians and their allies continued to hold back the Germans, with Pritchard among those going out under fire to rescue and provide succour to the wounded. When the Germans continued to redouble their efforts, General Morshead switched to more aggressive tactics. When one of the British officers arriving with reinforcements brought with him a London newspaper bearing an article with the headline, TOBRUK CAN TAKE IT! Morsheads response was immediate. Were not here to take it, he thundered to his officers, were here to give it! As Morshead put it in a subsequent conversation with Chester Wilmot: I determined that no-mans-land would be our land. Aggressive raids were launched, destablising the attacking forces, and the only cables Hitler got from Rommel through 1941 relayed bad news. By the time the last of the Australians were pulled out in December, 15,000 men were proud to call themselves a Rat of Tobruk, and the mateship endured for the next 80 years and more. Pritchard, who also served in the New Guinea battle of Shaggy Ridge, eventually settled in Victoria with his new bride Gwen. Tom Pritchard, the last living Rat of Tobruk. Credit: Liza-Jayne Lyons/Australian War Memorial He worked with Victorias State Electricity Commission and together they raised four children, living in Dandenong. The secretary of the Rats of Tobruk Association, Lachlan Gaylard, described Pritchard last year as a low-key larrikin, a man whose spirit remained intact, even as the flesh grew weak and the joints began to creak. Pritchard was a member of the Rats Committee for many years and frequently caught up with fellow Rats at Tobruk House, in Melbournes Albert Park. As a breed, they remained notable for the strength of the bond between them, their willingness to help each other and each others families out. And those families returned the love in kind, proud of these men and how they still stuck together. By late 2022, there were just half-a-dozen Rats left, but by Anzac Day last year, Pritchard was the last one. He lived the rest of his days quietly, facing his various medical challenges with the very stoicism that was the mark of his fine generation. Bravo, you Rats. You did the nation proud. And bravo and vale, Tom Pritchard VX23441. You were the last one left to hold their torch aloft, and were a worthy torch-bearer for their selfless, stoic way. Lest we forget. Peter FitzSimons published Tobruk in 2008. The former premier Dominic Perrottet has used his farewell speech to parliament to concede that his government should not have pursued COVID-19 vaccine mandates, arguing that peoples personal choices should not have cost them their jobs. Vaccines saved lives. But ultimately mandates were wrong, Perrottet told parliament on Tuesday in his valedictory speech, marking the end of his 13 years in politics before he leaves the country for a new career in the United States. Former premier Dominic Perrottet gives his valedictory speech in NSW parliament. Credit: John Appleyard/News Corp Australia Perrottets speech, to a packed public gallery including wife Helen and six of their seven children, former prime minister Paul Keating, one-time Liberal premier Mike Baird and Labor heavyweight Graham Richardson, highlighted lessons learnt and mistakes made during his years in public life. He said prime ministers, premiers and treasurers may have the best intentions but they cannot reform and develop policies for the long-term benefit of the country when there is a revolving door of leaders. A candidate had nominated to contest Asmar at the union election, but was struck out of the race months before voting started. In response to questions, Victoria Police said it was running an active fraud investigation and that detectives from its financial crime squad had executed two warrants in May. CFMEU national secretary Zach Smith outside the Federal Court in Melbourne on Monday. Credit: Eamon Gallagher The investigation commenced in October 2023 after information was provided to police in relation to allegations of false invoices linked to a union and a private company, the police statement said. As the investigation is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time. While Fair Work Commission general manager Murray Furlong said he could not provide details about an ongoing operational matter, he stressed that deliberate or fraudulent alleged conduct relating to the misappropriation of funds will give rise to swift, focused and well-resourced investigation and enforcement action. Setka and the unions national secretary, Zach Smith, have both declined to comment on why the CFMEU purportedly sent funds via a printing company to support Asmars uncontested election. Smith attended the Federal Court on Monday as the CFMEU fights the federal governments attempt to install administrators. Loading Asmar also declined to comment. Confidential documents seen by this masthead reveal that Victoria Police and the Fair Work Commission are probing whether a firm called Southern Publishing was used by the HWU to corruptly divert money for personal enrichment, including political gain. Investigators are examining why Southern Publishing one of three aligned printing companies that received funds from the HWU and CFMEU issued multiple invoices to Asmars union branch that were paid for on the same day but in the alleged absence of any documents showing the company performed any work. When contacted by this masthead, the director of the print firms said he was advised by his lawyers not to provide comment. The HWU, representing 16,000 hospital cleaners, orderlies and clerical staff, is the largest of the Health Services Unions four Victorian branches and was previously headed by Kathy Jacksons ex-husband Jeff Jackson. In 2020, it masked almost half a million dollars in losses by, legally, counting a LOreal pandemic giveaway to hospital workers as revenue in its financial report. During that year, Asmars branch spent $484,965 on printing, dwarfing the $17,000 to $20,000 average print spend of its sister union, the Health and Community Services Union, which has 11,000 members. The HWU went on to spend more than $500,000 a year on printing in 2021 and 2022. Disclosure statements show that from June 2020 to June 2022, Asmars salary increased by 17 per cent, from $171,000 to $200,000, excluding superannuation. Previous ALP slush fund and corruption scandals have involved printing firms or other service providers allegedly being used to conceal the improper movement of union funds. The revelation that the CFMEU is allegedly involved in the ghost printing scandal broadens the crisis already engulfing the construction union. The FWC is seeking to place the CFMEUs Victorian, NSW, Queensland and South Australian branches into administration following a months-long investigation into the CFMEU by this masthead, 60 Minutes and The Australian Financial Review, which has uncovered infiltration of the union by bikies and organised criminals, intimidation and allegations of corruption. For the Health Services Union, the revelations raise questions about why previous investigations and attempts to reform the union which included the charging and conviction of several of its former senior officials failed to clean up the culture within its largest Victorian branch. Asmar, who has run the branch since 2012, used her political influence to back the career of federal Labor senator Kimberley Kitching, who died suddenly in March 2022, and was formerly a driving force in an ALP Right faction that wielded influence in the partys federal and state ranks. However, political sources said Asmar had been increasingly isolated from the party as former key backers, including senior minister Bill Shorten, severed their ties with the union leader. Documents seen by this masthead also reveal Asmar is facing serious allegations that she misused union funds to pay for personal expenses and attempted to cover up her conduct by doctoring receipts. A March 2024 memo written by a Fair Work Commission investigator reveals the union watchdog holds concerns relating to the payment of reimbursements to Ms Diana Asmar by the Branch, and is investigating an amount totalling over $198,000 received by Ms Asmar between 2017 and 2021. About $124,000 in payments to Ms Asmar are wholly unsupported by any documentation able to be produced by the branch, the commissions letter alleges. In respect to some of the receipts provided by the union to justify Asmars expenses, the commission has uncovered a number of anomalies, including reimbursements paid to Asmar prior to her buying the goods in question, deletions or redactions to documents, and instances in which the same receipt appears to have been used to justify two different expenses. There are some instances where the same expenditure appears to have been claimed on two separate claim forms, and Ms Asmar has received the benefit of payment of the same amount twice, resulting in an apparent unjust enrichment, it said. One case study documented in the FWC memo involves Asmars apparent purchase of Gold Class movie tickets at Crown casino, an expense investigators have queried may not relate to a proper business expenditure of a union. The commission also cites records that it said showed Asmars movie ticket purchase occurred more than two years after it was purportedly claimed by Ms Asmar on a reimbursement claim form. Union funds were allegedly spent at a Squires Loft restaurant. The commission has also uncovered receipts that suggest Asmar was reimbursed by the union for goods actually bought by her husband, including a $1695 camera lens bought in Sydney in 2016. Asmar also allegedly claimed for expenses related to purchases made by another union employee at a pancake restaurant, a liquor store and a Squires Loft steak house. On another occasion, Asmar was reimbursed $268 by her union for a purchase made at IKEA 523 days before the reimbursement date. Loading Several union sources, who spoke to this masthead on condition of anonymity, said the discrepancies and allegations being pursued by the FWC had alarmed the unions national executive and interstate branches, who are pushing for Asmar to be held to account for any proven misbehaviour. Hundreds of new social homes to be built on Crown land have been left without funding after the Victorian government quietly removed 15 projects from its Big Housing Build scheme to cut costs. The 2020 promise to build 12,000 social and affordable homes over four years under the $5.3 billion plan is three years behind schedule and savings have been found to keep it on budget as construction costs rise. Then-premier Daniel Andrews, with then-deputy Jacinta Allan, releasing the housing statement in September last year. Credit: Elke Meitzel In May last year, the state government deferred 15 projects that will no longer be built on state-owned land under the program, a leaked government document obtained by The Age and a report from the Victorian Auditor-Generals Office show. While the same number of homes will be built as part of the scheme, fewer will be constructed by the state on government land to keep within budget. Soaring building costs amid a runaway housing market make property flipping a brave way to try to make money. But there are big capital gains to be made for those with the money to back it. Enter Paula Liveris, house flipper and wife of former Dow Chemical boss and now Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games president Andrew Liveris. The Bellevue Hill house will be sold to Paula Liveris after 45 years of Bray family ownership. Credit: Domain Less than a year ago Liveris purchased an architect John Suttor-designed house in Bellevue Hill for $28 million from Diana and the late Michael Bray, who had owned it since 1978 when Michael was the local mayor. At the time a source close to Liveris said the purchase was to be an investment for the Point Piper-based Liveris, making good on her previous property flipping forays in New York, Michigan, Florida and Greece. London: Foreign states may be involved in fuelling a wave of riots thats hit the UK in the past week, Keir Starmers government said, as the prime minister promised to crack down on perpetrators with the full force of the law. The premier on Monday held a so-called Cobra meeting of senior ministers, police and prison chiefs to coordinate the response to anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim riots that led to hundreds of arrests over the last week. Afterward, he told broadcasters that authorities agreed to mobilise a standing army of police officers to deal with the disorder. Riot police detain an anti-migration protester outside of the Holiday Inn Express in Manvers, which is being used as an asylum hotel in Rotherham, United Kingdom. Credit: Getty Images Starmers spokesman, Dave Pares, told reporters that social media firms must do more to respond to online hate, and also slammed a post on X by Elon Musk that civil war is inevitable in the UK, saying there was no justification for the billionaires remark. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has slammed Irans ambassador to Australia for declaring Israel should be wiped out while declining to back his removal from the country, as Israel braces for Iranian retaliation following the killing of Hamas political leader. Albanese said Iranian ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi had been called in for a rebuke for using social media to call Israel a Zionist plague and describe Hamas commitment to the wiping out of Israel by 2027 as a heavenly and divine promise. Irans ambassador to Australia, Ahmad Sadeghi, said he supported the wiping out of Israel. Credit: Rohan Thomson Albanese decried the comments as abhorrent, hateful and antisemitic, while Foreign Minister Penny Wong labelled them repugnant and inflammatory. We have called in the Iranian ambassador to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. [That] is the protocol when something like this happens, Albanese said on Tuesday. After months in which Trump mocked Biden as old and befuddled, he found himself last week quarrelling with Black journalists on a public stage about Harris racial identity. He kept it up at a rally at Atlanta on Saturday night, calling her a radical left freak, belittling her intelligence and her first name, lingering on each syllable of Kamala as he shouted it out to the crowd. Kamala, Trump said. You know theres about 19 different ways of saying it. She only likes three. The warp-speed campaign seems almost designed for this era of the attenuated attention span, fuelled by the barrage of posts on social media sites such as Truth Social and X. Over the past three weeks, Trump was shot at a rally, and Biden quit the race, but that seems almost forgotten as attention shifts to the new candidate on the block. Short campaigns are nothing new in much of the world. Keir Starmer was elected the prime minister of Britain last month after a campaign that was, by law, limited to about six weeks. By contrast, US presidential contests are a model of bloat; the first sprouts of a campaign can now be found in states such as New Hampshire and Iowa weeks after a president is inaugurated. Trump never stopped running after he lost in 2020; Biden announced he was seeking reelection in April 2023. Loading Trump is searching to define his new opponent, in part, because Harris was spared a primary. As a result, she has not undergone the months of attacks from fellow Democrats that could have highlighted her vulnerabilities. And Harris has yet to agree to any major media interviews since becoming her partys presumptive nominee. Shes not had to endure a long primary season with people questioning her motivations for running or fretting about whether or not a woman is electable, said Jennifer Palmieri, who was director of communications for Hillary Clintons campaign for president in 2016, and just joined the Harris campaign as a senior adviser to Harris spouse, Doug Emhoff. Shes been presented to voters as a solution to a problem. But the accelerated campaign poses risks to the new and relatively untested Democratic presidential candidate as well. Skipping a contested primary means she did not have a chance to test, or hone, her campaign skills. When Harris ran for president in 2020, in a large and contested field that included Biden, she dropped out before the first primary vote. And more immediately, the short calendar does not give her much time to rewrite the script and sell herself to a public that polls show looks unfavourably on Biden, Harris, and the state of the nation under their leadership. It also gives her relatively little running room to recover from the mistakes that even the most experienced campaigner can make. People shouldnt forget that even before the infamous debate, the country wanted to fire the Biden-Harris team, over age concerns and equally, the economy, said Mike Murphy, a Republican consultant, referring to Bidens faltering debate with Trump. So there is still plenty of danger out there for Harris. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures to the crowd as he arrives to speak at a campaign rally at Georgia State University in Atlanta. Credit: AP Depending on how events unfold, August could largely belong to Harris. She is about to pick a running mate, which promises a run of large rallies drawing attention from the media and the public. The Democratic convention begins on August 19 in Chicago, a gathering that party officials had once feared could turn into a display of division and despair, but now provides a chance, at least, for a four-day celebration by a unified party. Harris saw a significant shift in the publics assessment of her in polls taken after Biden dropped out: A New York Times/Sienna college poll found her favourable rating jumped from 36 per cent in February to 46 per cent in July. (That same poll, taken less than two weeks after Trump survived an assassination attempt, found the former presidents favourable rating rose to 48 per cent, the highest level in any Times/Siena College poll.) Since Harris is not that well known, her favorability has shot up, said Bob Shrum, a Democratic consultant, referring to her favorability rating among voters. Shes new today. And she will be new on November 5. The shortness of it means that effect wont go away. Loading On the other hand, if theres a mistake, the mistake becomes magnified, he said. Theres less time to get around it. Most Americans think the nation is heading in the wrong direction under Biden and Harris. The Trump campaign has the financial wherewithal and, in Trump, the messenger, to tie her to Bidens record on issues like immigration and the economy; Trump has an advantage over Biden on both of those overriding issues. (Case in point: Trump was quick to blame Harris and Biden after the stock markets sharp decline Monday.) And initial polling found that while Harris is faring better than Biden against Trump, she remains roughly tied with the former president. Still, said Murphy, who is a critic of Trump, net-net she helps the Democrats compared to the mess they were in with Biden. It forces Trump to have a new plan, rather than the easy trot against Biden, he said. She now has the gift of running a campaign about the future, painting Trump as the awkward remnant of yesterdays America. Thats a powerful place to be in. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. Italy has witnessed a notable rise in natural gas imports from Azerbaijan, with figures indicating a 10.5 percent increase year-on-year, Eurostat, the European Union's statistical office, told Trend. Italy imported 488 million cubic meters of gas from Azerbaijan in May 2024, compared to 441.5 million cubic meters in May 2023. While the volume of imports grew significantly, the value experienced a notable decrease. In May 2023, the value of imports stood at 366 million euros, whereas in May 2024, it plummeted to 276 million euros, marking a reduction by almost 25 percent. From January through May 2024, Italy imported 2.4 billion cubic meters worth 1.35 billion euros, as compared to 2.2 billion cubic meters worth 2.6 billion euros. In 2023, Italy imported a total of 9.3 billion cubic meters of gas from Azerbaijan, valued at 4.97 billion euros. Azerbaijan initiated gas transportation to Europe through the Southern Gas Corridor on December 31, 2020. This corridor facilitates the transport of gas from the Caspian Sea region to European countries, passing through Georgia and Turkiye. The project, with a total cost of 33 billion US dollars, is anticipated to recoup its capital costs within 810 years. In July 2022, Azerbaijan and the European Union reached an agreement to double the volume of gas supplies via the Southern Gas Corridor, from the current 10 billion cubic meters to 20 billion cubic meters by 2027. --- Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. ITOCHU Corporation has inked an agreement with Mitsui Fudosan, forming a strategic alliance in the logistics real estate business, Trend reports citing ITOCHU. This partnership follows the merger of Advance Logistics Investment Corporation (ADL) and Mitsui Fudosan Logistics Park Inc. (MFLP), entities sponsored by ITOCHU and Mitsui Fudosan, respectively. The merger aims to foster a cooperative relationship between the two sponsors, focusing on the joint promotion of real estate development, particularly in logistics and industrial sectors. The alliance comes at a time of sustained growth in third-party logistics (3PL) businesses and robust demand for e-commerce. As industries such as manufacturing and retail seek to streamline logistics operations and restructure supply chains, the need for advanced logistics facilities is projected to rise steadily. Leveraging its extensive sales channels and logistics networks, ITOCHU has successfully developed numerous multitenant and build-to-suit (BTS) logistics facilities in Japan under its flagship brand, i Missions Parks (IMP). Mitsui Fudosan, Japan's leading real estate developer, has also made significant strides in logistics facility development both domestically and internationally with its flagship brand, MFLP, embracing digital transformation and innovation in the sector. Post-merger, ITOCHU and Mitsui Fudosan will enhance their collaboration in the industrial real estate sector, including logistics facilities, factories, and data centers, by combining their strengths as sponsors of MFLP. This partnership is poised to drive further growth and innovation in logistics real estate development. Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. The Green Card insurance service will be available in Azerbaijan's liberated territories, Trend reports via the Azerbaijani Compulsory Insurance Bureau. Following the restoration of Azerbaijans territorial integrity and sovereignty, the Azerbaijani Compulsory Insurance Bureau requested the Council of International Bureaus to lift geographical restrictions on Green Card insurance coverage for Azerbaijan. Thanks to collaborative efforts, these restrictions have been removed. As a result, at the 58th General Assembly of the Council of International Bureaux in London, the "List of Geographical Coverage and Motor Insurance Directive" for the Green Card system was updated and approved. This decision removed geographical restrictions on Azerbaijan and revised the territorial jurisdiction of the Compulsory Insurance Bureau in accordance with the UN-recognized territorial integrity of the country. The Green Card system, established in 1949 under the UN Economic Commission for Europes Working Group on Road Transport, facilitates international transport and loss settlements. Vehicle owners in member countries who possess a Green Card receive insurance coverage when traveling to other member countries. Bangladesh President orders immediate release of jailed former PM Khaleda Zia NEW DELHI, AMID the political unrest in Bangladesh that saw Sheikh Hasina resign as the Prime Minister and flee the country on Monday, President Mohammed Shahabuddin chaired a meeting at the Bangabhaban in Dhaka to discuss the formation of an interim Government with the chiefs of the three Armed Forces, leaders of various political parties, and civil society representatives. The meeting unanimously decided to release BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia immediately. The Presidents press team said in a statement that the meeting led by Shahabuddin decided unanimously to free Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia immediately. At the meeting, a condolence resolution was also taken in memory of those killed in the anti-quota movement and prayers were sought for forgiveness and peace for the departed souls. The meeting decided to form an interim Government, urging everyone to exercise patience and tolerance in controlling the law and order situation in the country. It also decided to take strict action to stop looting and violent activities. Besides, it was decided to release all the people detained during the anti-discrimination movement. A consensus was also reached at the meeting that no community should be harmed in any way. Earlier, as Hasina left for India, Bangladesh Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman confirmed the news of her resignation and said that an interim government will be formed soon to run the country. It was reported that over 100 people were killed and more than 1,000 injured in the clashes that took place between police and the protesters on Sunday. With yesterdays count, the death toll in anti-Government protests crossed 300 in just three weeks, making it the bloodiest period in the history of Bangladeshs civil movement, the countrys leading daily The Daily Star reported. The student-led non-cooperation movement put immense pressure on the Government led by Prime Minister Hasina over the past many weeks. The students had been protesting against a 30 per cent reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters who wrested independence for Bangladesh in 1971 in which, according to Dhaka officials, three million people were killed in genocide by Pakistani troops and their supporters. Dont panic, wait for stock markets to stabilise: Experts Business Reporter : DALAL Street witnessed a blood bath on Monday with the Sensex nose diving by 2,222.55 points to settle at 78,759.40 and Nifty falling by 662.10 points to settle at 24,055.60, which severely affectedinvestorsentiments to turn from positive to negative. Experts in the market feel that this crash offers a lucrative opportunity to buy shares at lower valuations and create wealth over a period of time. They suggest investors to remain calm and not panic or sell their portfolios in haste as this sell-off has a limited down side from current levels. During times of huge selloff or uncertainity investors should not panic but remain calm till the markets stabilise. Every steep correction in the stock markets should be utilised as a buying opportunity to accumulate shares at cheaper valuations, said CA Kailash Jogani. He strongly advised investors, speculators and traders to stay away from penny stocks, mid caps and F&O segment as they might suffer heavy losses. Anuj Badjate, Managing Director of Badjate Stock & Shares Pvt Ltd sees this fall as a healthy correction for the markets. He advises investors tobuyinsmallquantities to get those battered down stocks at lower valuations.Forinvestors already invested in the market to buy and average their portfoliosif theyheldqualitystocks. Another expert, CA Julfesh Shah expects thestockmarkets to stabiliseby end of thisweek. There could be further correction for another fewdays.After that themarketscouldwitness a fast rebound. The Indian growth story is stillintact as themonthly average GSMmop is strong,Union Budget favourable for theeconomy,companyresults are good and no liquidity problems in the market, he said. Shah was confident that the domestic stockmarketswould climb to a fresh all time high by end of this year. This could be possible as domestic institutional investors, MFs, HNIs, and retail investors flush with funds are regularly investing in the stock markets. Also, FIIs will stay invested in domestic equities as they see high growth in the economy. All these factors would lift the markets, he pointed out. The market crash was triggered in the US with data indicating slump in jobs creation, slowdown in manufacturing and thefearof goingintorecession; Japanese stock market crash and geo-political tensions in the Middle East. CA Dr TSRawal, a wellknown economist suggested that investors should consider this downtrend as a buying opportunity togethigh returns. He sees limited downfall from current levels. Suggesting investors shouldbuybluechip companies Nobel-winning physicist Tsung-Dao Lee no more TAIPEI ( Taiwan ) CHINESE-AMERICAN physicist Tsung-Dao Lee, who in 1957 became the second-youngest scientist to receive a Nobel Prize, died on Sunday at his home in San Francisco at age 97, according to a Chinese university and a research center.Lee, whose work advanced the understanding of particle physics, was one of the great masters in the field, according to a joint obituary released on Monday by the Tsung-Dao Lee Institute at Shanghai Jiao Tong University and the Beijing-based China Center for Advanced Science and Technology. Lee, a naturalised US citizen since 1962, was also a professor emeritus at Columbia University in New York. Robert Oppenheimer, known as the father of the atomic bomb, once praised Lee as one of the most brilliant theoretical physicists of the time, whose work showed remarkable freshness, versatility and style. Lee was born in Shanghai on November 24, 1926, the third of six children to a merchant father, Tsing-Kong Lee, and a mother, Ming-Chang Chang, who was a devout Catholic, according to local newspaper Wenhui Daily. He went to high school in Shanghai and attended National Chekiang University in Guizhou province and National Southwest Associated University in Kunming in Yunnan province. After his sophomore year, he received a scholarship from the Chinese Government to attend graduate school in the United States. Between 1946 and 1950, he studied at the University of Chicago under Enrico Fermi, a Nobel laureate in physics. By Azernews Nazrin Abdul Azerbaijan and the Central Asian nations have established a robust collaborative framework across various economic sectors. As an active participant in the "green transition" initiative, Azerbaijan has emerged as a key proponent of projects aimed at the production and export of renewable energy within the region. In a significant development, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan have formalized their cooperation with the adoption of a pivotal document concerning the export of "green energy." During a recent meeting of the relevant ministry heads from these three countries, a Joint Communique was signed. This document outlines the collaborative efforts in energy exchange with a focus on renewable energy sources, including the export of "green energy." On August 6, Azerbaijan will engage in the inaugural meeting of energy ministers from Central Asian countries in Astana. The meeting will be chaired by Kazakhstan's Energy Minister, Almasadam Satkaliyev. At the upcoming meeting, the energy ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, along with the Deputy Energy Minister of Azerbaijan, are scheduled to address the assembly. It is noteworthy that during the tripartite meeting held in November of the previous year at the Ministry of Economy in Baku, discussions centered on the potential export of electricity from Central Asian countries to Europe via Azerbaijan. The participating parties reached an agreement to establish a joint venture focused on electricity export and to commence preparations for the project's economic feasibility. The meeting, which included the ministers of economy and energy from Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, highlighted that the renewable energy development and export policies of these three countries enable Azerbaijan to serve as a conduit for delivering electricity from Central Asia to Europe. In this context, Azerbaijan, in collaboration with Georgia, Romania, and Hungary, is advancing the development of the Caspian Sea-Black Sea-Europe energy corridor, designed to facilitate the export of 4 GW of electricity. Additionally, plans are underway to transport another 1 GW of "green energy" via the Nakhchivan-Turkiye-Europe route. The integration of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan into these corridors will bolster their cooperation in electricity market development, as well as in the production and supply of "green hydrogen" and ammonia. Azerbaijan's initiative to coordinate and synchronize efforts for the future development of the regional energy system, as well as to foster collaboration on the supply of clean electricity to international markets, is highly commendable. During the recent meeting, the ministers acknowledged the substantial renewable energy potential of their respective countries. They expressed their willingness to participate in the project aimed at exporting electricity from alternative sources to Europe and signed a Joint Communique as a result of their discussions. One month following this event, a Joint Communique was adopted in Baku during a tripartite meeting between Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan. This document addressed the prospects of exporting electricity from Central Asia to Europe via Azerbaijan, covering aspects such as energy exchange focused on renewable sources, the development and export of "green hydrogen" and "green ammonia," and the creation of necessary infrastructure. The agreement outlined in the Communique included the establishment of a joint venture for electricity export and preparation for the project's economic justification. It also specified that other regional countries could join the project. The ministers reiterated their countries' potential in renewable energy and reaffirmed their readiness to contribute to the export of electricity from alternative sources to Europe. Azerbaijan's renewable energy resources include a technical potential of 135 GW on land and 157 GW offshore. The economic potential is estimated at 27 GW, comprising 3,000 MW from wind energy, 23,000 MW from solar energy, 380 MW from bioenergy, and 520 MW from mountain river sources. Furthermore, Azerbaijan's renewable energy production policy is guided by the "Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities of Socio-Economic Development," adopted in February 2021. Among the five national priorities outlined, a clean environment and "green growth" are pivotal, setting ambitious new goals. Azerbaijan is making significant progress toward these goals and remains open to further cooperation. Considering the potential for new cooperation through joint projects with Central Asian countries, it is evident that Kazakhstan is advancing towards its "green goals." In 2013, Kazakhstan approved the National Concept for Transition to a Green Economy up to 2050, which set forth the principles of a green economy as a strategic development path. The concept aims to increase the share of renewable energy in electricity generation from zero to 3 percent by 2020, and further to 30 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2050. These targets are particularly ambitious given Kazakhstan's unique context. As the 14th-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, the country had previously relied mainly on a few Soviet-era hydropower plants for its renewable energy needs. Kazakhstan faces significant climatic extremes, with summer temperatures in the capital, Astana, exceeding 40 degrees Celsius and winter temperatures dropping below -40 degrees Celsius. Addressing these extremes necessitates substantial energy consumption for both heating and cooling. To tackle its energy challenges and reduce emissions, Kazakhstan's policy now focuses on developing a more decentralized, balanced, and environmentally friendly energy supply system that leverages a variety of renewable resources. This approach not only acknowledges the countrys substantial fossil fuel reserves but also capitalizes on its favorable conditions for renewable energy development. Collaboration among countries with shared objectives in renewable energy holds significant promise for unlocking new opportunities. The development of the "Green Energy" transmission project is poised to enhance economic and energy connections among the participating nations, providing a new impetus to their national energy sectors. Azerbaijan's potential for collaboration in the renewable energy sector extends notably to Tajikistan. Dilshod Sharifi, head of the International Economic Cooperation Department at the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of Tajikistan, highlighted the potential for joint projects involving hydropower. "Tajikistan's substantial water resources and hydropower potential could benefit from Azerbaijani investment and technology, improving the efficiency of water resource utilization. Both countries enjoy high levels of solar radiation, making them ideal candidates for solar energy projects. Collaborative efforts could include the establishment of solar parks, installation of solar panels, and the creation of joint research centers focused on "green technologies,"he added. These initiatives would help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Turning to Turkmenistan, where up to 70 percent of the territory is desert, there is significant potential for solar energy production. Despite the challenges posed by its desert landscape, Turkmenistan's solar energy potential is complemented by wind energy resources. The UAEs "Masdar" company, which has invested in Azerbaijan, is also set to develop "green energy" projects in Turkmenistan. Given the high solar exposure300 sunny days annuallyTurkmenistan's potential for solar energy is substantial, despite the high costs associated with green energy production, infrastructure construction, and energy transmission. In Azerbaijan, the collaboration with Masdar has already yielded progress. The Garadagh Solar Power Plant, which began operations last year, represents the first foreign-invested energy project in Azerbaijan. Additionally, foundations have been laid for the Neftchala and Bilasuvar Solar Power Stations, as well as the Absheron-Garadagh Wind Power Station, with a combined installed capacity of 1000 MW. Kyrgyzstan also presents opportunities for enhanced renewable energy cooperation. During the 16th Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) summit in Tashkent last November, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov emphasized the importance of leveraging the ECO member countries' potential for renewable energy development. He called for focused efforts on developing effective mechanisms for the economic advancement of member states, with renewable energy as a key area. Moreover, during President Japarov's state visit to Azerbaijan in April this year, 18 agreements were signed, including a "Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Energy" between Azerbaijan's Ministry of Energy and Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Energy. This memorandum opens up significant prospects for deepening energy cooperation between the two nations. Azerbaijan's proactive role in fostering renewable energy partnerships with Central Asian countries underscores its commitment to a sustainable future. By spearheading the development of key energy projects and signing pivotal agreements with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan is establishing itself as a central player in the regional green energy landscape. The collaborative efforts, including the advancement of the "green energy" transmission project and various bilateral agreements, are set to enhance energy connections, drive economic growth, and support the global transition to cleaner energy sources. As these nations work together to leverage their renewable resources, they pave the way for a more sustainable and interconnected energy future. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. The Conference of the Parties (COP) is a key international event on climate change, held under the auspices of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The first COP was held in 1995 in Berlin, and since then, these annual meetings have gathered representatives from governments, international organizations, and civil society worldwide. At the COP, participating countries evaluate global efforts to achieve the Paris Agreement's primary goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The meetings focus on decisions regarding the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, adaptation to climate change impacts, financing for vulnerable countries affected by natural disasters, and support for countries transitioning to green economic models through finance, technology, and capacity building. What are the main goals and tasks of COP? COPs are held to coordinate global efforts to combat climate change. The primary objective is to assess and advance initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. The conferences also address financing for vulnerable countries suffering from climate-related disasters like floods and droughts. In addition to developing new strategies, COPs provide crucial support for those most affected by climate change. Why are COPs important? COPs play a crucial role in the fight against climate change. At these meetings, governments from around the world discuss and agree on measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the changing climate. These conferences also raise awareness of climate risks and ensure the essential participation of the private sector, civil society, and industry in addressing the climate crisis. As UNFCCC Executive Secretary Simon Stiell emphasized, "Every decade of global warming matters. Every year matters. Every decision matters. Every COP matters." What are greenhouse gases? Greenhouse gases, such as CO2, methane, and sulfur dioxide, are natural gases that trap heat on Earth, similar to how a greenhouse retains warmth to support plant growth in cold climates. According to NASA, without these gases, Earth's average temperature would be around 0F (-18C) instead of the current 59F (15C). Since the Industrial Revolution in the mid-1700s, human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, have significantly increased the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. CO2, which is responsible for about three-quarters of global warming, can remain in the atmosphere for thousands of years. Path to 1.5C Since the start of the Industrial Revolution, the average global temperature has increased by about 1.2 C. Most scientists agree that a 1.5C increase marks a critical threshold, beyond which the effects of climate change become increasingly dangerous and irreversible. The pathway to 1.5C refers to efforts aimed at limiting global temperature rise to this level. At COP26 in 2021, governments committed to focusing on the 1.5C pathway, shifting away from the less stringent 2C target set in the Paris Agreement of 2015. What is zero emission? Zero emissions of greenhouse gases are achieved when the amount of carbon emitted annually equals the amount of carbon removed from the atmosphere. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the pathway to zero emissions involves both decarbonization and carbon removal. Decarbonization refers to reducing emissions by decreasing reliance on carbon-intensive fossil fuels, while carbon removal solutions aim to extract carbon from the atmosphere and store it long-term. Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement The Kyoto Protocol, ratified in 1997, is a landmark international treaty where signatories committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate human impact on the climate. This treaty, which emerged from COP3, is one of the most significant outcomes of COP meetings. The Paris Agreement, concluded in 2015 at COP21, is another pivotal international treaty. In Paris, participants agreed to limit global temperature rise to 2C, with an aspirational goal of staying within 1.5C. The agreement requires each country to monitor, record, and report its carbon emissions, as well as its efforts to reduce and offset them. How does COP interact with other international organizations? COP actively engages with various international organizations, including the World Food Programme (WFP), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). COP collaborates with WFP to address the impact of climate change on food security, providing resources and expertise for projects that enhance climate resilience in rural communities. With FAO, COP integrates climate initiatives into agricultural practices, developing strategies and programs that help countries adapt to changing climate conditions and improve agricultural resilience. IFAD partners with COP to finance and support projects aimed at increasing the climate resilience of rural communities, offering financing and technical assistance for implementing climate-resilient agricultural practices. Additionally, COP works with the World Bank, which provides financial and technical support for climate projects in developing countries, assisting these nations in developing and implementing strategies to reduce emissions and adapt to climate change. Collective commitments and joint action Over the years, COP conferences have made significant progress in fostering international cooperation and advancing climate commitments. Some key collective commitments and joint actions adopted at the conferences include: Flexibility mechanism (COP3, 1997): Under the Kyoto Protocol adopted at COP3, countries committed to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions by 5 percent below 1990 levels between 2008 and 2012. This agreement marked one of the first global commitments to reduce emissions under the UNFCCC. Global climate finance goal: At various COP conferences, participating countries agreed to mobilize $100 billion annually to support developing countries in their efforts to combat climate change. COP29 will discuss raising this funding target to $150 billion. Loss and damage programs: At COP27, a special fund was established to compensate developing countries for loss and damage caused by climate disasters such as floods and hurricanes. Zero emissions initiative: At COP26, parties to the agreement committed to a global initiative aimed at achieving zero carbon emissions within the next decade. COP29: Global significance for future generations COP29 is crucial for securing a sustainable climate future for generations to come. As highlighted by the World Economic Forum, COP29 serves as a vital platform for developing specific actions and commitments to combat climate change and safeguard ecosystems that will shape the planets climate for future generations. The conference underscores the need for urgent and decisive action to ensure a sustainable climate. To note, the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) will take place in Azerbaijan in November this year, as decided at the plenary meeting of COP28 in Dubai on December 11 of the previous year. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Protesters oust BDesh Govt Hasina resigns, flees country, reaches India By Anisur Rahman DHAKA ; As violence gripped Bangladesh amid ongoing student protests, Sheikh Hasina resigned as countrys Prime Minister and left the country in a military helicopter and landed at the Hindon airbase in India. Several reports cited that Hasina will be leaving for London soon. Later, Bangladesh Army stepped in to fill the power vacuum, ending one uncertain chapter and opening another in the nations restive history. As news of Hasinas departure spread, hundreds broke into Hasinas residence, vandalising and looting the interiors, providing dramatic expression to the anti-Government protests that have killed more than 100 people in the last two days. At the centre of people anger is the Hasina Governments controversial quota system reserving 30 per cent jobs for families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. With volatile crowds taking to the streets -- some clambering on Hasinas father and Bangladesh founder Sheikh Mujibur Rahmans statue and smashing it with hammers in a lasting image underscoring the fickleness of history -- Army chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman announced that the 76-year-old Prime Minister has resigned. After hours of uncertainty in a day of sudden developments, Hasina landed at the Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad near New Delhi on her way to London, diplomatic sources in the Indian capital said. She arrived in India in a C-130J military transport aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force. In an interview to Newshour on the BBC World Service, Joy said there would be no political comeback for his mother. He said that Hasina had been considering resigning since Sunday and had left the country for her own safety after her family insisted. Joy said that his mother, who ruled Bangladesh for 15 years, was so disappointed that after all her hard work, for a minority to rise up against her, according to the report. Expressing Hasinas disappointment, he said, She has turned Bangladesh around. When she took over power, it was considered a failing State. It was a poor country. Until today, it was considered one of the rising tigers of Asia. Shes very disappointed. Rejecting accusations that the Government had been heavy-handed in dealing with protesters, Joy said, Youve had policemen beaten to death 13 just yesterday. So what do you expect the police to do when mobs are beating people to death? The protesters demanded an end to the controversial quota system that reserved 30 per cent of Government jobs for relatives of veterans who fought in Bangladeshs War of Independence in 1971. Rs 253 crore NMCs Water Supply Department deep in huge arrears Staff Reporter : Even as population in the city rises, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) is rising to the occasion by meeting the demands of citizens for drinking water. While the civic body is matching the demand as is indicated by yearly-rise in supplied water, on the flip side, however, the losses are growing substantially indicating that all is not well in the Water Supply Department. Information shared by NMC showcased the mismatch in recovery against supply and if the situation remains as it is, then in immediate future the citizens might have to bear with steep increase in water cess. Sharing information with Abhay Kolarkar, the Water Supply Department provided the year -wise data about the supply of drinking water. A simple reading of the available datasheet indicates that now the arrears figure has risen to Rs 253 crores during financial year 2023-24. This is despite handing over the supply of drinking water to private company, the civic body financial returns are in negative zone. The development does not augur well as expenses on account of lifting of water from storage and other fees for treatment and maintenance of the infrastructure is only going to rise over the years. Kolarkar sought information for the past five financial years wherein he was given the figures. As to 2019-20, the total water supplies to different category of consumers was 643.061 MLD against which arrears were Rs 176 crore. Though in next financial, 2020-21 the arrears reduced a bit, to Rs 171 crore, the water supply increased considerably to 667.759 MLD. However, from next year onwards, the arrears began to swell, which is a sign of worry. In year 2021-22 while NMC provided water of 664.139 MLD, the arrears zoomed to Rs 191 crore. Against in 2022-23 the total supply was 676.076 MLD the arrears jumped to Rs 219 crores and now as abovementioned, they are pegged at Rs 253 crores. The water supplied during 2023 is 714.830 MLD. In fact the demand for water supply is going to rise to one of the highest levels, as during year 2024 till May 2024 already 715.067 MLD was supplied so far. Under RTI, Kolarkar also sought information as to losses suffered in drinking water supply scheme to which the private operator expressed inability, saying same is available with NMC. Post outsourcing drinking water supply, the recovery of NMC has increased, compared to yesteryears when it was in-house. Still the rising arrears is a worrying sign and needs quick fixing to avoid ballooning of the default. SFIO probe into Sahara group cos on: Nirmala NEW DELHI : THE Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) is carrying out a detailed probe into the matter related to the Sahara group of companies and it is also looking into the reason behind a sizeable number of investors not coming forward to claim the invested money in the company, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said in Lok Sabha on Monday. Sitharaman also said the entire affairs of the Sahara group are being monitored by the Supreme Court and the Government is acting according to the directives of the apex court. It is true that only small investors have come forward to claim the refunds. The SFIO is investigating the entire matter. It is also looking into why all the investors have not come forward to claim the refunds and where are they. The SFIO is going into a detailed analysis of this. We hope that at the end of it more legitimate claimants come and we can give the money, she said during Question Hour. The Minister said the whole picture will be clear and action can be taken after the detailed analysis of the SFIO. Spend more on health infra: Nadda to States HEALTH Minister J P Nadda on Monday urged state Governments to spend more on improving healthcare infrastructure and dismissed Opposition allegations on reduction of allocations under the PM-Ayushman Bharat Healthcare Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM). Replying to the debate on the demand for grants for the Health and Family Welfare Ministry in the Lok Sabha, Nadda listed the increase in number of medical colleges, steps taken for the reduction of out-of-pocket expenses on healthcare and initiatives for early screening of diseases such as cancer and sickle cell anaemia as achievements of the Government. We dont believe in just making announcements. We believe in effective planning, ensuring last mile delivery, identifying bottlenecks in last mile delivery and taking steps to remove them, the Minister said. Oppn leaders vow to oppose bill to amend Waqf Act SEVERAL Opposition leaders on Monday alleged that the BJP-led Government wants to bring a bill for amending the Wakf Act to create a divide in the society and asserted that they will strongly oppose such a legislation. Several BJP leaders, however, strongly defended the imminent move, stressing that the Modi Government has always worked with the intention of bringing transparency in every sphere. The bill to amend the Wakf Act, 1995, if it is introduced and passed, will make it mandatory for the Waqf boards to register their properties with the District Collectors to ensure their actual valuation. There are 30 Waqf boards in the country. The sources on Sunday pointed out that the revenue generated by all Waqf properties is estimated at Rs 200 crore per annum. This is not in sync with the number of properties such bodies have, they said. The Government is all set to bring a Bill in Parliament to amend the 1995 law governing the Waqf boards to ensure more accountability and transparency in their functioning and mandatory inclusion of women in these bodies, sources said on Sunday. bbbbbbbbbbbb Oppn plans to protest against GST on health, life insurancebbbbbbbbb SEVERAL Opposition parties are planning to stage a protest in the Parliament complex on Tuesday to press for the rollback of 18 per cent GST on life and health insurance premiums. Sources said on Monday that Opposition parties were coordinating on the issue for a joint protest to pile pressure on the Government during the ongoing budget session. Trinamool Congress MPs have raised issue in Parliament and party supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on the matter. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also wrote to Sitharaman and urged her to consider withdrawing the GST which, he said, amounted to taxing uncertainties of life and restricting the industrys growth. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. A joint venture for the project of green energy export from Central Asia to Europe will be set up in Baku, Deputy Minister of Energy of Azerbaijan Orkhan Zeynalov said, Trend reports via Kazakh media. He made the remark during the first meeting of energy ministers from Central Asian countries in Kazakhstan today. According to the deputy minister, a technical assignment for conducting a preliminary feasibility study of the project in collaboration with the Italian CESI consulting company has been approved. "The working group has already agreed on the establishment of a joint venture in Baku. Azerbaijan hopes that such an export corridor will help diversify the electricity markets of Central Asian countries. Overall, these efforts will undoubtedly contribute to strengthening the energy security of our countries, developing the Middle Corridor, and deepening mutual integration between Azerbaijan and Central Asian countries," Zeynalov added. To note, on December 17, 2022, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania, and Hungary inked a strategic partnership agreement, outlining the construction of an energy bridge from the Caucasus region to Europe. Under the agreement, the construction of the Black Sea Energy submarine electric cable is anticipated, boasting a capacity of 1,000 MW and spanning 1,195 kilometers. This cable is slated to transport green electricity from Azerbaijan through Georgia and the Black Sea to Romania, facilitating onward transportation to Hungary and other parts of Europe. The initiative is expected to enable the supply of up to four gigawatts of green energy. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Photo: Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan ASTANA, Kazakhstan, August 6. Kazakhstan proposes the implementation of global gas projects with the countries of the region, the nation's Minister of Energy, Almasadam Satkaliyev, said at the first meeting of the Energy Ministers of the Central Asian states and the Deputy Minister of Energy of Azerbaijan in Astana today, Trend reports. "Currently, Kazakhstan is beginning to implement a global project in the field of developing and transmitting 'green' energy with Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan and is also actively discussing the construction of the large-scale Kambarata-1 HPP with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. In this regard, I propose considering the possibility of implementing similar projects with the countries of the region, particularly in the gas sector," he explained. The Kazakh minister noted the immense potential for developing energy cooperation and strengthening existing ties between the Central Asian countries. According to him, today, the challenges facing the Central Asian countries include global disruptions in the stability of energy resource supplies, fluctuations in oil and gas prices, and other factors. "To ensure the reliability of energy supplies, it's necessary to develop mechanisms for forecasting and managing these challenges, as well as strengthening cooperation between our countries," Satkaliyev suggested. He also called on his colleagues to intensify efforts to strengthen cooperation by expanding opportunities for energy resource trade, developing low-carbon initiatives, achieving carbon neutrality, and facilitating a phased energy transition. Following the meeting, the heads of the energy departments of the Central Asian countries signed a communique, which will lay the foundation for further successful cooperation in all key areas between the countries. To note, the meeting is being chaired by Satkaliyev. The event also schedules speeches by the energy ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASTANA, Kazakhstan, August 6. After a trilateral meeting in Astana regarding a proposal to link energy networks, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan signed a protocol, Trend reports via the Azerbaijani Ministry of Energy. The meeting reviewed the progress made thus far in developing the green energy corridor connecting Azerbaijan, Central Asia, and Europe, as well as planned future actions. The ministry pointed out that the draft Strategic Partnership Agreement for the development and transfer of green energy between the three countries was agreed upon, the Terms of Reference for the preparation of the initial feasibility study were approved, and the Italian CESI company was selected to develop it. Besides, the ministry emphasized that an agreement was reached on the creation of a joint venture with the participation of the national energy companies of the parties. To note, the ministers of energy of Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan signed a memorandum of cooperation on the interconnection of the energy systems of the republics within the framework of the Tashkent International Investment Forum on May 1. The signed memorandum's purpose is to define the basic conditions of cooperation within the project's framework on the interconnection of energy systems in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. The paper assumes that the participants intend to investigate the possibilities of connecting energy systems by laying a high-voltage cable along the Caspian Sea bed and in other countries with the implementation of the most optimal trade in green energy from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. Tajikistan is set to actively participate in initiatives by the Civil Air Navigation Services Organization (CANSO), as the country's air navigation service provider, the state-owned enterprise Tajikaeronavigatsiya, joined CANSO in June 2024, a source at the organization told Trend. "The immediate plans for collaboration include active participation in CANSO events, projects, and initiatives. Tajikistans involvement in CANSO is significant. For instance, Tajikaeronavigatsiya recently took part in two CANSO Euro-Asia Summits aimed at fostering cooperation among industry leaders to improve understanding and develop shared strategic goals for enhancing air transport efficiency in Central Asia," the source said. He noted that becoming a CANSO member enabled Tajikaeronavigatsiya to recently join a visit to the European Organization for the Safety of Air Navigation (EUROCONTROL), aimed at strengthening aviation links between air navigation service providers from the Central Asian Region and Europe. "Tajikaeronavigatsiya's membership in CANSO signifies a commitment to enhancing air navigation services in Tajikistan and the Central Asia region by aligning with global standards. This membership allows Tajikistan to strengthen its capabilities, exchange best practices, and foster cooperation with other industry leaders. It underscores the country's growing prominence in the global aviation landscape and its dedication to maintaining high standards in air navigation services," the source added. It was also noted that Tajikaeronavigatsiya brings extensive expertise in providing safe and efficient air navigation services in Central Asia. "Their dedication to maintaining high standards and enhancing air navigation aligns with CANSOs goals of improving the global air traffic management landscape. Their experience in operating within the unique challenges of Central Asian airspace adds valuable regional knowledge to CANSO's global network," the source said. According to CANSO, in terms of global air navigation services, Tajikaeronavigatsiya is working on optimizing its route network to achieve significant savings in time, fuel, and carbon emissions. "Through Tajikistans membership, we are able to promote and facilitate safe and efficient traffic flow through mutual collaboration for the implementation of air traffic flow management (ATFM) and collaborative decision-making (CDM)," the source concluded. DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, August 6. Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have discussed the potential for implementing new joint transboundary projects in the water management sector, Trend reports. According to the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of Tajikistan, the issue was discussed during the seventh meeting of the joint working group on the comprehensive use of water resources from the transboundary rivers of Central Asia between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, which took place in Dushanbe. During the meeting, the parties discussed the use of water resources from Lake Sarez to provide the region's countries with clean drinking water. Both sides expressed confidence that cooperation in the water resources sector will expand and strengthen. Daler Juma, Minister of Energy and Water Resources of Tajikistan, and Shavkat Khamraev, Minister of Water Management of Uzbekistan, as well as delegations from both sides, participated in the meeting. According to the Ministry of Energy, Tajikistan possesses enormous reserves of hydroelectric resources, estimated at 527 billion kWh per year. In the global ranking of hydroelectric potential, Tajikistan ranks eighth after China, Russia, the USA, Brazil, Zaire, India, and Canada, and first in Central Asia. Hydropower accounts for more than 95 percent of Tajikistan's energy sector. Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has called on the state governments to account for the sum of N438billion disbursed to revitalise businesses following the COVID-19 pandemic. In his nationwide broadcast on Sunday, Nigerias President, Bola Tinubu, revealed that the government disbursed over N400billion to states. Falana demanded for accountability from the state governments in a statement he released. He noted that since the release of the funds had been confirmed by President Bola Tinubu in his nationwide address, it is appropriate that Nigerians deserve to know the details of its use in the anti-poverty alleviation programmes. He opined that this was important given that the N438billion, being the last tranche of the $750 million World Bank loan, would be paid back by the Nigerian people. He further explained that the loan was obtained for implementation of the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG CARES) programme to support businesses impacted during the pandemic with the federal government disbursing an initial advance recoverable sum of N35.3 billion to all the states in March 2022. Further, he said the federal government under the Buhari administration disbursed another N77 billion to the states and the FCT for the NG-CARES programme for tackling multidimensional poverty in April 2023 making a total of N112 billion. He said, However, in 2023, the federal government approved the release of N135.4 as reimbursement to states and FCT for the implementation of the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG CARES) Programme. In July 2024, the federal government released over N438 billion in reimbursement to 34 states and the Federal Capital Territory under the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus programme. Kaduna and Anambra states were not included in the list of beneficiaries of the last disbursement on the ground that they did not present results for verification during the exercise. Falana also noted that the president confirmed the disbursement of a total sum of N573 billion in nine months to fight the multidimensional poverty in the country. DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, August 6. Tajikistan's Minister of Energy and Water Resources, Daler Juma, participated in the first meeting of the Energy Ministers of the Central Asian states held in Kazakhstan's Astana, Trend reports. In his speech, Juma highlighted the ongoing project aimed at reconnecting Tajikistan's energy system with the Unified Energy System of Central Asia (UES CA). He noted that in early June of this year, the energy system in the southwestern part of Tajikistan was successfully connected to the UES CA, enhancing the reliability of the regional power grid. The meeting saw proposals to strengthen cooperation through expanded opportunities for energy trade and to advance low-carbon initiatives, achieve carbon neutrality, and facilitate a phased energy transition. At the conclusion of the meeting, the heads of the energy ministries of Central Asian countries signed a communique, laying the foundation for further successful cooperation on all key issues between the nations. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday directed her party and Cabinet colleagues to refrain from making any comment or social media post on the situation in Bangladesh. Bangladesh leader Sheikh Hasina landed at the Hindon Air Force in Ghaziabad around 30 km from Delhi on Monday evening, hours after resigning as Prime Minister amid violent protests that killed over 300 people in the neighboring country since last month. Following a state Cabinet meeting on Monday, the Chief Minister also issued a public appeal through the media, requesting the common people to refrain from getting trapped in any kind of provocation on the Bangladesh issue. Advertisement Refrain from making any comment that can create tension or violence. All of us are anxious about the situation evolving in Bangladesh. But do not make any post or comment on the issue that might disturb peace in the state and the country, the Chief Minister said. She also accused a section of the BJP leaders of making comments on the developments in Bangladesh. They have already started making some posts which they should not have done. I have asked my leaders to refrain from doing the same. I request all to maintain peace, Banerjee said. Earlier, the leader of opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, said that it is time to be ready to give shelter to several refugees who might come to India in the backdrop of the unrest in Bangladesh. Speaking to mediapersons, Adhikari said he would like to request Governor C.V. Ananda Bose and the Chief Minister to discuss the matter in advance with the Union government. He also said that the chances of an influx of refugees will increase if the situation does not normalise in Bangladesh in the next three days. He also reminded that as per the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), if any person comes to India from Bangladesh after becoming a victim of religious violence, we must give them the necessary shelter. Good news for Durga Puja pandal hoppers! Digital Canvas is bringing out its second edition, which is more user-friendly. The app contains a brief history of 100 clubs, where to park the car, and which metro line to take. In case of an emergency, the contact numbers of the police and fire brigades, as well as the nearby hospitals and pharmacies,. One can download the Digital Canvas app free of charge from the Google Play Store and enjoy the best pujas without even stepping out of home. The viewers can vote for the best puja as judges. The puja that receives the highest votes from the people will be awarded on 24 November at the 15th annual Canvas Swayam event. The upgraded version of the app will be available for download from the Google Play Store from 1 September. Durga Puja has received the heritage tag from UNESCO, and people from different states and countries come to see the Durga Puja immersion carnival on Red Road. The carnival is held in the districts as well. The state government will give Rs 85,000 to every Durga Puja committee. The Durga Puja, which is the biggest colourful festival in India, does Rs 2,000 in business from various sources. Advertisement The Border Security Force (BSF) has increased the deployment of troops along the India-Bangladesh border besides sounding an alert in the frontier areas amid escalating unrest in the neighbouring nation. BSF Director General Daljit Singh Chaudhary was also on a tour of the India-Bangladesh border along West Bengal on Monday. Accompanied by Ravi Gandhi, additional director general, Eastern Command, and Maninder Pratap Singh, IG, South Bengal Frontier, Chaudhary inspected the defence and operational preparedness in the North 24-Parganas district and the Sundarbans. The DG, who is in charge of the SSB, took over additional charge of the BSF on Saturday and this is his first official visit to the India-Banglader border in West Bengal. In view of the situation in Bangladesh, the BSF has issued an alert with the IBB and the number of troops deployed along the border has been increased, said A.K. Arya, DIG and spokesperson, BSF, South Bengal Frontier. Advertisement Chaudhary was briefed about the situation in North 24 Parganas before he moved to the floating Border Outpost at the T-Junction in the Sundarbans. He took stock of the situation there and instructed officers to maintain constant vigil. The India-Bangladesh border in the Sundarbans, with its numerous creeks and mudflats, is extremely vulnerable to cross-border movement, particularly in small fishing boats. The BSF has several speedboats to patrol the area, but infiltration attempts cannot be ruled out completely at the moment. According to sources, thousands of Bangladeshis could try to cross over to India to escape the violence taking place in their country. The India-Bangladesh border along North 24 Parganas is also porous with several riverine stretches where fencing has not been possible. As of now, no major activity has been spotted along the India-Bangladesh border. The incidents of violence seem to be taking place in and around Dhaka. However, vigil has been increased to prevent any untoward incident, an official said. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on Monday, appreciated Leader of Opposition (LoP) Suvendu Adhikari in the Assembly for supporting the motion against the division of the state A motion against the issue was moved in the state Assembly on the 11th day of the ongoing monsoon session by the treasury bench on Monday with both Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Leader of Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, participating in the debate. The Chief Minister gave a call to the opposition BJP to get united on the issue of reported attempts to divide West Bengal. She appreciated LoP Suvendu Adhikari in the House for supporting the motion and complimented him for his participation in the motion against attempts to divide the state. Advertisement After the state Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Sovandeb Chattopadhyay moved the motion, a debate on the matter started. The LoP said that no one in the BJP had ever given a call for division for West Bengal. The motion looks like a leaflet of a particular political party, where versions of some individuals were misinterpreted, Adhikari said. Thereafter, he gave a proposal to include a clause of united approach for development of undivided West Bengal. The Speaker of the House, Biman Bandopadhyay then told the LoP that the latter could have moved his proposal in the form of an amendment. Thereafter the Chief Minister rose to speak and agreed to the proposal from the LoP to be included in the motion. West Bengal will remain united. I will request the state Parliamentary affairs minister to include the proposal from the leader of the opposition in the motion. I believe in federal democracy. Just as the Union government will cooperate with the state government, there will be reciprocation from the state as well, she said. At the end of the debate, the motion was passed unanimously by the ruling and opposition legislators present in the House. Political observers feel that such a display of mutual courtesy between the treasury and the opposition benches in the state Assembly had been rare in the recent past, where the opposition BJP legislators have again and again staged protests and walkouts from the House on various issues. To recall, a recent statement by BJP Lok Sabha member from Jharkhand Nishikant Dubey in Parliament proposing the creation of a separate union territory forked out of some portions of Bihar, Jharkhand and the two West Bengal districts of Malda and Murshidabad, had attracted scathing criticisms from Trinamool Congress. Thereafter, the states ruling party decided to move a motion against attempts to divide West Bengal. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, August 6. Kazakhstans President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has invited Turkmenistan's President Serdar Berdimuhamedow to visit Kazakhstan and participate in the sixth Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and the first Central Asia + Japan Dialogue Summit, which will be held in Astana, Trend reports. According to official information, Tokayev extended the invitation during a telephone conversation with Berdimuhamedow. The Turkmen leader accepted the invitation and expressed confidence that the initiatives discussed at these meetings will help define new opportunities for regional cooperation. He also wished for the successful conduct of these events. The discussion covered the implementation of joint projects, particularly in the gas, energy, and transport sectors. Emphasizing the importance of the transport sector as a key area of interstate partnership, Presidents Berdymukhamedov and Tokayev highlighted the significance of following through on previously reached agreements. It was noted that regular and trustful high-level contacts play a crucial role in advancing Turkmen-Kazakh cooperation. In a significant turn of events, Vidyasagar University has disclosed a long-withheld Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Yunan Minzu University of China. This development comes nearly nine years after the initial agreement was signed and almost a decade after the MoU remained unimplemented and shrouded in secrecy. The MoU, signed on 25 November, 2014, by ViceChancellor Mr. Swapan Kumar Pramanick, was intended to promote international exchanges and cooperation between the two institutions. The agreement outlined provisions for faculty and administrative staff exchanges, collaborative scientific research, academic activities, and student exchanges. However, despite the promising terms, the MoU failed to yield any tangible benefits or activities for Vidyasagar University. On 15 October, 2015, Professor Abhijit Guha of the Department of Anthropology, in an effort to shed light on the dormant agreement, filed a Right to Information (RTI) application seeking details of the MoU. However, his request was denied by the State Public Information Officer (SPIO) of Vidyasagar University, Dr. Arun Kumar Maiti. In a letter dated 6 November, 2015, Dr. Maiti classified the information as a Classified item and stated that it does not serve the larger public interest, thereby rejecting the RTI application. This refusal was echoed by the West Bengal Information Commission, which, in a memo dated 5 June, 2024, underlined that such queries did not serve any larger public interest. The Commission referenced Dr. Guhas RTI application dated 15 October, 2015, in its observation, reinforcing the universitys stance on withholding the information. Advertisement The situation took a dramatic turn when, on 31 July, 2024, the SPIO of Vidyasagar University, Dr. Sukhen Som, directed by the Registrar and Appellate Authority of Vidyasagar University, finally responded to Dr. Guhas nearly nine-year-old RTI application. The SPIO provided Dr. Guha with a copy of the MoU, bringing an end to years of bureaucratic obfuscation. Despite this disclosure, the revelation confirmed that the MoU had remained inactive and unproductive for Vidyasagar University. The agreement, which had initially promised to enhance international collaboration and academic exchange, had not been implemented, yielding no benefits for the university or its stakeholders. A VU professor said, This case highlights the challenges faced in obtaining transparency and accountability in public institutions. It also underscores the perseverance of individuals like Dr. Abhijit Guha, whose unwavering efforts have finally brought this long-buried issue to light. The disclosure serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency in fostering trust and accountability within educational institutions. Amid the ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh, S&P Global Ratings said India is a well diversified exporter and a blip in its exports to Bangladesh is unlikely to have any meaningful impact on Indias overall trade position for the full year. Bangladesh is facing its worst political crisis since independence in 1971, with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigning amid massive anti-government protests. Notably, Bangladesh is Indias biggest trade partner in South Asia, while India is the second biggest trade partner of the neighbouring country in Asia. Advertisement Indias exports to Bangladesh dipped to $11 billion in 2023-24 from $12.21 billion in 2022-23. Imports too declined to $1.84 billion in the last fiscal, from $2 billion in 2022-23. Notably, Bangladesh is facing its worst political crisis since independence in 1971, with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigning amid massive anti-government protests. Bangladesh Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman on Monday announced that an interim government would be taking over the responsibilities. S&P Global Ratings, Director, Sovereign and International Public Finance Ratings (Asia-Pacific), Andrew Wood said that S&P expects domestic demand conditions in Bangladesh in this period of time to be weak and probably going to entail less support for exports from other countries, including India, into Bangladesh. India is a well diversified exporter to the entire world and its trade profile is significantly larger than bilateral trade relationships with economies like Bangladesh. Whatever the impact is going to be on directly is really quite unlikely to have a meaningful impact on its overall trade position for the fiscal year its external position is quite strong in the country and is a net creditor to the world by our calculation, Wood said. Indias main exports include vegetables, coffee, tea, spices, sugar, confectionery, refined petroleum oil, chemicals, cotton, iron and steel, and vehicles. The main import items are fish, plastic, leather, and apparel, among others. The Ministry of External Affairs will host the 1st BIMSTEC Business Summit here in association with the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) from Aug 6 to 8, an official said on Monday. The first edition of the Business Summit aims to foster greater regional collaboration through robust trade and investment relations among the member countries of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) which links five countries from South Asia (Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, India & Sri Lanka) and two from South-East Asia ( Myanmar & Thailand ). The official said that the Business Summit will be inaugurated by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Advertisement Minister of Commerce and Industries Piyush Goyal and other leaders will deliver keynote addresses. Several Ministers of the BIMSTEC Member States from the ambit of Trade, Commerce and Industry, as well as Energy, along with high-ranking Government officials, policymakers, entrepreneurs and industry associations, will participate in the event, he said. He said that the event will bring together more than 300 key stakeholders from across the Bay of Bengal region to facilitate economic collaboration and explore ways ahead in focus areas such as trade facilitation, regional connectivity, energy security, inclusive growth and sustainable development. The 4th Annual Meeting of the BIMSTEC countries was held at the end of last month and was also attended by National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval. He met with the Myanmar NSA Admiral Moe Aung and BIMSTEC Security Chiefs called on Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hai. Delivering Indias national statement at the BIMSTEC meeting, NSA Doval spoke on strengthening cooperation in counter-terrorism and combating drug trafficking, arms smuggling and organised crime. He also spoke about BIMSTEC connectivity, holding the 2nd Ports Conclave and water security of Himalayan river systems. The offices of the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) in Bangladesh will remain closed till August 7 due to the political unrest in the neighbouring country, the company said on Monday. LIC said in a regulatory filing, The office of LIC of Bangladesh Ltd will remain closed during the period from August 5, 2024, to August 7, 2024, due to the prevailing socio-political situation in Bangladesh. LIC further said that a curfew has been announced by the Bangladesh government from August 5 to August 7. Advertisement LIC shares were down 5.98 per cent at Rs 1,109 on Monday due to heavy selling in the stock market. Meanwhile, reports said Sheikh Hasina landed at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad on Monday, hours after resigning as the countrys Prime Minister and leaving Dhaka en route Delhi. Hasina arrived in India in a military transport plane of Bangladesh Air Force as thousands of protesters stormed and vandalised Ganabhaban the official residence of the Prime Minister in Dhaka. Several reports cited that she will be leaving for London soon. The house of Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal was also reportedly set on fire in Dhanmondi, an upscale area of the Bangladesh capital. As Hasina left for India, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman confirmed the news of her resignation and said that an interim government will be formed soon to run the country. The Army chief also said he will meet President Mohammed Shahabuddin soon to chart the future course of action. It was reported that over 100 people were killed and more than 1,000 injured in the clashes that took place between police and the protesters on Sunday. With yesterdays count, the death toll in anti-government protests crossed 300 in just three weeks, making it the bloodiest period in the history of Bangladeshs civil movement, the countrys leading daily The Daily Star reported. The student-led non-cooperation movement put immense pressure on the government led by Prime Minister Hasina over the past many weeks. The students had been protesting against a 30 per cent reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters who wrested independence for Bangladesh from Pakistan in a bloody civil war in 1971 in which, according to Dhaka officials, three million people were killed in the genocide by Pakistani troops and their supporters. After the Supreme Court slashed the reservations to 5 per cent, student leaders put the protests on hold, but the demonstrations flared up again because the students said the government ignored their call to release all their leaders, making the resignation of PM Hasina their primary demand. The stock of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company Marico Ltd slumped nearly 5 per cent on Tuesday amid the political unrest in Bangladesh as the neighbouring country contributes almost 11 per cent of its consolidated business. The companys stock was trading around Rs 640 a piece (down 4.9 per cent) during the day trading. Marico Bangladesh Ltd clicked Rs 1,103 crore in revenue in the last fiscal (FY24), making up 11 per cent of Maricos consolidated revenue. For international business on a standalone basis, Bangladesh contributes around 44 per cent of the total revenue. Advertisement Maricos net profit in the April-June quarter went up 8.7 per cent (year-on-year) to Rs 474 crore. The shares have gone up 12.89 per cent in the last 12 months and 17.78 per cent on a year-to-date (YTD) basis. In its April-June quarter result, the company said it aims to bring down the contribution from Bangladesh to less than 40 per cent by the end of fiscal 2027. In Q1 FY25, Bangladesh registered 10 per cent CCG (constant currency growth) as the business stayed resilient and sustained its momentum for Marico. The company said that the international business has grown from strength to strength in the face of transient macroeconomic and currency devaluation headwinds in select regions. While Bangladesh and Vietnam have led from the front, the strong growth momentum in the MENA and South Africa businesses has visibly strengthened the broad-based construct and offers margin upside over the medium term, Marico said in its quarterly results. This resulted in visible geographical diversification in the overall international business, reflecting in the reducing revenue dependence on Bangladesh business. The company said it will aim to maintain the double-digit constant currency growth momentum over the medium term. The FMCG volume trends in India continued to exhibit gradual improvement on a 2-year CAGR basis, with the trajectory in rural areas bearing more promise, while urban was stable. Led by Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva, partys municipal councilors, senior officials, and workers protested outside Tihar Jail on Tuesday demanding the resignation of the jailed Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The protesters raised slogans against the chief minister at the gate of Tihar Jail where Kejriwal is lodged. Addressing the protesting party workers, Sachdeva said following the Delhi High Court decision on Monday declaring his arrest legally valid, Kejriwal no longer has any moral right to remain in office. Advertisement Claiming that the people of Delhi are now demanding Kejriwals resignation from the post of CM. The Delhi BJP chief accused Kejriwal, charging him with receiving millions in commissions, accusing him of being the main conspirator of the alleged liquor scam. Sachdeva said Kejriwals obsession with his luxurious mansion is preventing him from resigning. He also criticised his ministers for accepting perks like bungalows and cars but avoiding responsibility when any untoward incident occurs. He claimed that even a brief 20-minute rainfall in Delhi results in waterlogging and traffic jams, with ministers doing nothing but telling lies. He pointed out that the Delhi chief minister, former deputy chief Minister Manish Sisodia, and former health minister Satyendar Jain are in jail, while other ministers and legislators are preoccupied with press conferences. In the last two and a half years, there have been 71 cabinet meetings, of which only 15 were physical meetings, the BJP leader claimed, adding that remaining 56 meetings were mere telephone orders, with decisions made without discussion and signatures obtained later from ministers and officials, he alleged. Sachdeva claimed that the Aam Aadmi Party government is mired in corruption across all departments and accused it of being more concerned with Kejriwals health in jail than the welfare of Delhi. He lamented that the entire administration is paralyzed as no cabinet meetings have been held since March, and the government cannot function without a chief minister. The Delhi BJP president urged Kejriwal to choose any one to sit in the chief ministers chair but allow the government to function, as the current situation is causing significant inconvenience to the public. Prominent figures like Leader of the Opposition in the Delhi Municipal Corporation Sardar Raja Iqbal Singh, Deputy Leader Jaibhagwan Yadav among others were present during the protest. Delhi Education Minister Atishi on Tuesday said that it is the vision of the Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government to provide the best education to children of the poorest families of Delhi. The minister made the statement after inspecting the ongoing work of a five-storey school with 120 rooms equipped with modern facilities in Sundar Nagari. She said the building of this new school is no less than the building of any international university. The school will become a hub of world-class education for 8,000 children amid the dense population of North-East Delhi. Advertisement It is the vision of Arvind Kejriwal ji to provide the best education to the children of the poorest families of Delhi. This new school is an attempt to fulfill this dream, she said. In a directive to concerned officials, Atishi said, The remaining work should be completed within a month and the school should be dedicated to the students and every detail should be taken special care of in the final phase. She said this new school would reduce the pressure of students on the schools of Mandoli, Sable, Sundar Nagari, Bank Colony, Harsh Vihar, Nand Nagari areas. The new school with 120 rooms is equipped with all the modern facilities, including smart classrooms, libraries, excellent labs, activity rooms, lifts, she added. Atishi further said, The children of the surrounding area would get excellent education in this school of Sundar Nagari. And through this, we will ensure world-class education for children of every section, rich and poor. This school, equipped with world-class facilities will become a hub of quality education in the area and will also leave private schools behind in terms of education. She said the vision of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is to change the country through education. This vision will be fulfilled only when the children of a poor family get all the facilities that children of a rich family get. We have started this by making the Delhi government schools excellent. Our government has assured the parents of Delhi that lack of money will never come in the way of quality education for their children, she added. New developments have emerged in the Salman Khan firing case. The incident at the Bollywood superstars apartment in Bandra on April 14 was not intended to harm him, but merely to scare him. According to Vicky Kumar Guptas bail plea, filed on Monday in the special MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act) court, the assailants aimed to threaten the actor for not apologizing after allegedly killing a blackbuck, revered by the Bishnoi community in Rajasthan. For those unfamiliar, the shooting was reportedly orchestrated by Lawrence Bishnois gang and overseen by his brother, Anmol Bishnoi. Gupta and his accomplice Sagar Kumar Pal executed the firing. On the morning of April 14, four rounds were fired outside Salmans residence in Bandra. Lawrence Bishnoi and Anmol are among those wanted in connection with the case. Mumbai police suspect the crime was committed to strengthen the gangs position. In his bail plea, filed through advocates Amit Mishra and Susheel Mishra, Vicky Kumar Gupta portrays himself as a victim of circumstances. Gupta revealed that after losing his job as a laborer in Tamil Nadu during the pandemic, he sought help from Pal, who is from his hometown. Pal then sent him to Jalandhar, Punjab, to work as a driver. However, upon arriving there, Gupta was informed that he needed to travel to Mumbai for a religious mission. Advertisement It was only after reaching Mumbai that Gupta was contacted by Anmol Bishnoi, who informed him of the plan to fire shots at Salman Khans apartment. In the bail plea, Gupta further stated that he committed the crime because Anmol Bishnoi assured him that nothing would happen to him, and his role was merely to ride the bike and transport Pal to Bandra, where Pal fired the shots at Khans house. Gupta also mentioned that he is the sole breadwinner for his family, which includes his elderly mother, wife, and two children. He argued that considering the prolonged duration of the trial, he should be granted bail. Special judge BD Shelke directed the Mumbai police crime branch to respond to the bail plea and scheduled the hearing for August 13. In the chargesheet filed by the police before the special MCOCA court, nine people, including Gupta, Pal, and Anmol Bishnoi, have been named. The arrested accused include Gupta, Sagarkumar Pal, Sonukumar Bishnoi, Mohd Rafiq Choudhary, Harpal Singh, and Anujkumar Thapan. While Thapan reportedly died by suicide while in police custody, the remaining accused are currently in judicial custody. Rajshri Deshpandes latest short film, Gudgudi, is set to make its mark on the international stage at the 47th Odense International Film Festival in Denmark this August. This year, the festival, which is a notable gateway to Oscar and European Film Awards, has selected Gudgudi as the only representative of Indian cinema out of a staggering 4,200 submissions from 40 countries. Directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Abhiroop Basu, Gudgudi is a poignant exploration of the Gujarat riots of 2002, but with a fresh perspective. While many narratives about the riots focus on communal violence, Basus film offers a unique view by highlighting the experiences of women during this turbulent period. The film follows a mother-daughter duo as they navigate the harrowing events, emphasizing themes of survival and resilience. Basu, known for his previous works like Meal, Laali, and Rhino Charge, embarked on this project after uncovering distressing reports about the violence against women during the riots. I stumbled upon a shocking news report revealing that over 150 Hindu women had been raped and murdered, Basu shared. This was a turning point for me. It underscored the notion that women, irrespective of their religion, are treated as mere objects of violence. This realization became the foundation for Gudgudi. Advertisement Deshpande, who has earned acclaim for her roles in web series like The Fame Game and Trial By Fire, was deeply moved by Basus vision. She remarked, Abhiroops approach to this story, stripping away the noise to focus on a human narrative of survival, really resonated with me. By presenting the riots through a womans lens, he brings a fresh and urgent perspective to the story. The films cast includes Akash Sinha, Chetan Sharma, Kuldeep Sareen, and Shayree Sarkar, all of whom contribute to a compelling portrayal of human endurance amidst chaos. Gudgudi will be screened at the festival on August 27, 29, and 31, promising audiences a gripping and insightful portrayal of the impact of violence on women and their strength in the face of adversity. As Gudgudi prepares to make its debut on the global stage, its inclusion in the Odense International Film Festival is a significant achievement. The festivals selection process is highly competitive, and having Gudgudi among the 148 films chosen underscores its powerful narrative and exceptional storytelling. This screening is not just a milestone for the film, but also a testament to the compelling nature of Indian cinema on the world stage. The Supreme Court on Tuesday declined the plea by Sameer Kulkarni, one of the accused in the 2008 Malegaon bomb blast case, challenging the June 28, 2023, Bombay High Court order dismissing his plea that the sanction by the authorities to prosecute him under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act was not proper. A bench comprising Justice MM Sundresh and Justice Aravind Kumar said that it was not inclined to interfere with the Bombay High Court order which had dismissed his plea. We find no reason to interfere with the impugned judgement, the bench said. Advertisement Earlier the top court on April 30 had stayed proceedings against Kulkarni before the special NIA court. The High Court by its June 28, 2023 order had upheld the April 24, 2023 order of the NIA court rejecting Kulkarnis plea questioning the competence of the trial court to hold the trial without valid sanction. Kulkarni had approached the top court challenging the sanction to prosecute him granted under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act stating that the sanction was not proper. The plea challenged the competence of the trial court to conduct the trial and that too without a valid sanction under Section 45(2) of the UAPA. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, August 6. Uzbekistan and Austria have signed a memorandum of cooperation, Trend reports. The document was signed during an online meeting between the Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan, Laziz Kudratov, and the Deputy Minister of Finance of Austria, Andreas Reichardt. The memorandum covers cooperation in the field of innovative technologies, best practices, and economic interaction. At the same time, during the meeting, the parties discussed a wide range of issues of bilateral cooperation, including investments, trade, and economic and financial relations. The parties exchanged views on the current state and prospects for the development of cooperation between the two countries. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their intentions to continue working to inform the Austrian business community about the favorable business environment in Uzbekistan, as well as to unlock the potential for cooperation in the trade, economic, financial, and investment spheres. At the end of 2023, Uzbekistan and Austria signed a protocol outlining agreements on measures to avoid double taxation, air transport cooperation, and the establishment of an Austrian foreign trade representative office in Uzbekistan. There were many difficulties in the crop insurance schemes during previos government with insufficient claims, insured amount was less, delay in settlement of claims, said Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday. While answering questions related to Crop Insurance Scheme in the Lok Sabha today, the minister said farmers and farmer organizations had many objections in the previous schemes. I am proud to say that Prime Minister Narendra Modi brought the new Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, he added. Advertisement Earlier, 3 crore 51 lakh applications were received for crop insurance and now 8 crore 69 lakh applications have been received, while the gross insured amount has increased to more than 2.71 lakh crore rupees. Farmers have paid a premium of Rs 32 thousand 404 crore and in return they have been given a claim of Rs 1.64 lakh crore. He said that if the crop is damaged due to natural reasons, then that too is fully covered and the farmer gets its benefit. According to the old crop insurance, the loanee farmers was compulsorily insured and the bank itself deducted the insurance premium amount. The government has removed this anomaly and made the scheme voluntary. So far, 5 lakh 1 thousand hectares of area has been covered in it, which has increased to 5 lakh 98 thousand hectares in 2023, 3 crore 57 lakh farmers have been covered, he said. The government has taken several measures to simplify the scheme, so that the farmer does not face any problem in taking advantage of the schemes, he added. Further on the schemes for the states, he said there are 3 different models of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, and state government chooses the model it wants. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana is for every district of the country. Earlier there were discrepancies in the unit of the scheme that the block itself was made the unit. Now the Gram Panchayat has been made the unit, so that if a farmer in the Gram Panchayat incurs loss, his loss can be compensated properly. The minister said it has been made mandatory to conduct at least four crop cutting experiments in every Gram Panchayat. It has been made mandatory to assess the crop loss of at least 30 per cent through remote sensing. He said that this is the reason why there is a delay in the payment of claims. When we looked at the reasons for the delay in insurance payments, 98.5 per cent of the reasons were the delay in the release of premium amount by the state governments, he added. The minister requested to the state governments not to delay the release of premium amount from their side. Amid the ongoing turmoil in Bangladesh, Yog Guru Baba Ramdev, has urged for national unity and a focused approach in Indias political discourse. In a video statement, Ramdev emphasized on the need of unity among all Indians to protect the Hindu communities in Bangladesh. He also warned against the dangers of rising Islamic extremism across the world and now in Indias neighbouring country. Baba Ramdev expressed deep concern over the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh and said, We must ensure that no atrocities or violence occur against our Hindu brothers in Bangladesh, whether they are Hindus engaged in business, those associated with Hindu temples there, or Indian citizens residing in Bangladesh. We need to stand united against any form of injustice, he stated. Advertisement He further applauded the Opposition for standing behind the Indian government as it deals with the crisis in Bangladesh. I am pleased to see that, for the first time,a the entire opposition is standing with the government on this issue. This should always be Indias policy because the rise of Islamic extremism, which is growing worldwide and has now knocked on our neighboring countrys door, could be dangerous for our nation. This unity must be maintained in the future as well. Baba Ramdev also called for a shift in the priorities of Indian politics. He urged leaders to concentrate on substantial issues rather than divisive topics that often dominate the discourse. the politics of our country should always focus on real issues. Instead of getting distracted by reservations, the Constitution, caste, or other religious, linguistic, or regional unrest, we should concentrate on how to develop the nation on the basis of progress, he remarked. He underscored the importance of building a strong and resilient India by the year 2047. Our focus should be on making India economically, militarily, socially, and spiritually strong by 2047. Only then will India be able to stand strong with its neighbors and assert itself powerfully on the global stage, Ramdev added. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday convened an all-party meeting in Parliament to brief political leaders regarding the Bangladesh crisis. During the meeting, Jaishankar updated the leaders on the unfolding events in Dhaka and outlined Indias strategic response. The discussion centered on the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh, which has intensified after the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid violent protests. According to a news agency, the Indian government is in close contact with both Sheikh Hasina and the Bangladeshi military, ensuring that all necessary precautions are being taken to safeguard Indian interests and nationals. Advertisement Sheikh Hasina, who stepped down amid rising anti-government protests, was given shelter in India. She landed at Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad near Delhi after fleeing her country. Jaishankar indicated that the Indian government is allowing Hasina time to plan her next course of action, with assurances that India stands ready to support her decisions. In a social media post on X, the External Affairs Minister also appreciated the unanimous support and understanding extended by the Opposition parties. We briefed the all-party meeting on the developments in Bangladesh and appreciate the unanimous support and understanding extended by all parties, Jaishankar posted on X following the meeting. The political unrest in Bangladesh, largely fueled by student-led protests demanding an end to the quota system for government jobs, has escalated into a broader anti-government movement. After Hasinas resignation and departure from Dhaka, Bangladeshi Army announced formation of an interim government to restore order in the country. The coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement in Dhaka has proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus as a solution to the crisis. During the all-party meeting, the government informed political leaders that approximately 20,000 Indian nationals are currently in Bangladesh, with 8,000 having already been evacuated. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka remains operational and in continuous communication with Indian citizens to ensure their safety. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, raised concerns about Indias future strategies in response to the situation. Gandhi also asked about the potential involvement of a foreign hand in fueling the crisis in the neighbouring country, to which the government affirmed that all possible scenarios were being looked into. Multiple reports have claimed that Sheikh Hasina is likely to seek an asylum in the UK but there was no confirmation regarding this. For now, she remains in a safe house at Hindon Air Base under the security of Indian Air Force and other security agencies. As massive landslides wreaked havoc in Wayanad district of Kerala leaving hundreds dead and property destroyed, experts claim the tragedy was avoidable. Famous environmental scientist Madhav Gadgil ,who was the chairman of the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP), has termed the disaster in Wayanad a man-made tragedy, attributing it to the Kerala governments failure to implement crucial ecological recommendations. Speaking to a Malayalam news channel on the other day on the backdrops of the landslides in Wayanad, Madhav Gadgil said it is man-made disaster and the government cannot get out of its responsibility Advertisement The government cannot shirk its responsibility.The government itself is abetting the exploitation of the environment, Gadgil said. The noted environmental scientist said that the possibility of landslides in Meppadi region in Wayanad, where the devastating landslides killed hundreds of people last week, had already been pointed out. But the government didnt care it, he said The facts pointed out by Madhav Gadgil in his study report in 2011 are being discussed on social media after the massive landslides in Kerala.The noted environmental scientist has in 2013 stated that if Western Ghats have not been protected, huge disasters await Kerala If action is not taken yet, a huge disaster awaits Kerala. It doesnt take ages as you might think, just four or five years. Then you and I will be alive. You yourself will understand who is lying and who is intimidating,- these are the words shared by Madhav Gadgil in 2013. Meppadi and Churalmala areas in Wayanad are in the list of environmentally sensitive areas mentioned by Madhav Gadgil in his study report in 2011. The committee, headed by Madhav Gadgil, in its report had recommended the classification of eco-sensitive areas and zones across the Western Ghats. But till date this has not been implemented. The Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel led by Madhav Gadgil had specifically warned against anti-environmental activities in Meppadi, where the massive landslide wreaked havoc leaving more than 300 people dead and destructing the entire area. Meppadi, which is in Vythiri taluk was one of the 18 Ecologically Sensitive Localities (ESL) in Kerala identified by the panel.The panel has submitted its report to the Union government in 2011. This report that had cautioned against indiscriminate construction and quarrying in Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESA). In fact, Meppadi in Vythiri taluk within 2-3 km of which lie Mundakkai and Chooralmala, where landslide occurred on July 30 was one of the 18 ecologically sensitive zones in Kerala identified by the panel. Brahmagiri Tirunelli, Wayanad, Banasura Sagar Kuttiyadi and Nilambur Meppadi are among the 18. In its report, the Gadgil panel had proposed to categorise ecologically sensitive areas across the Western Ghats, delineating clear restrictions and regulations on construction activities in ESZ-I and ESZ-II regions. The Gadgil panel had recommended restrictions on mining and quarrying activities along the eco-sensitive areas. Going by the Gadgil report, Vythiri, Mananthavadi and Sultan Bathery come under ESZ-I, while Perinthalmanna and Tirur taluks in Malappuram will come under ESZ-II. Madhav Gadgil, who had earlier visited Puthumala region of Meppadi following the 2019 landslide that claimed 17 lives, had specifically pointed out that construction of roads and buildings on the hilly terrain were contributing factors for the landslides. What happened in Wayanad on Tuesday was a disaster that we consciously brought upon ourselves, said noted environmentalist V S Vijayan who was part of the Gadgil panel. It had proposed that quarrying and red category industries should not be allowed in ESZ- I. Moreover, in regions where quarrying was permitted, it should be carried out, at least 100 metres away from human settlements. However, the government reduced the distance to a mere 50 metres, pointed out Vijayan. We had given clear warnings. The panel identified 18 places as ESAs. Construction activities should have been avoided in these areas. However, due to some reasons, the governments rejected our recommendations, says Vijayan. In its report submitted before the Union government in August 2011, the panel had warned against activities that will lead to environmental degradation. However, both the state and Centre were not keen on implementing the same and went ahead with measures aimed at diluting the proposals. Following opposition from state governments, the Centre government rejected Gadgil panel recommendations and appointed another committee High Level Working Group led by Kasturirangan to come up with a fresh report. The Gadgil panel had recommended that about 75 % of Western Ghats be notified as ESAs. The Kasturirangan committee, however, reduced the extent of ESAs. The then state government led by Oommen Chandy had opposed the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel(WGEEP) report and entrusted another panel led by Oommen V Oommen to come up with an independent report. Congress leader P T Thomas was one of the very few politicians who had favoured the Gadgil report Geoscientist and professor professor at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru, C P Rajendran says human interventions including deforestation, unplanned construction activities and climate vagaries caused the devastating landslides in Wayanad According to the Kerala Disaster Management Authoritys landslide hazard profile map, over forty per cent of Wayanad district is susceptible to landslides, with the Meppadi region, including Chooralmala, Mundakai, and Puthumala, being especially critical. Kavalappara in the Malappuram district, which experienced a massive landslide four years ago, is on the opposite side of the Meppadi hills. Experts have suggested that the state government should come up with a policy for people in ecologically fragile areas prone to annual landslides and floods. There is a need to relocate and rehabilitate people from such areas, they say. The Kerala government had promised to take up both these activities after devastating floods struck the state in 2018. The massive deluge had triggered numerous landslides in Wayanad and Idukki districts. However, progress is yet to be made although extreme weather events have become an annual affair in Kerala. In the last six years alone, about 300 people died in landslides that occurred across Kerala. The latest tragedy indicates that massive rains and major landslides will continue to haunt the state in the future as well. Four years ago, the Puthumala landslide in Kerala led to the emergence of soil piping. This hydraulic process creates large air-filled voids in the subsurface, often associated with landslides and collapse subsidence. The landslides in Mundakkai and Chooralmala imply that soil piping may have been the cause. Interestingly, Puthumala is just two kilometres from where the July 30 landslides occurred. The recent landslides exhibit all the characteristics of soil piping, according to M G Manoj, a scientist from the Advanced Centre for Atmospheric Radar Research. He also pointed out the soils inability to absorb large amounts of water in a short period and the significant surface voids formed by the Puthumala tragedy, which contributed to the scale of the disaster. The massive landslides in Wayanad has raised questions about the rationale behind the proposed four-lane underground twin tunnel project which the Kerala government is reportedly pursuing to improve tourism in the region. The proposed tunnel is expected to be third-largest in India. The pathway will connect Anakkampoyil in Kozhikode and Meppadi in Wayanad where the landslide took place and is expected to bring down the distance between the two districts from 85 km to 54 km. Not just activists and environmentalists, even the governments own impact assessment report has said that the land in the area is unstable. The crown of the landslide is close to the proposed mouth of the tunnel in Vellarimala, said N Badushah, president of Wayanad Prakrithi Samrakshana Samithi, a collective that has been campaigning against the project citing the ecological fragility of the Western Ghats. It has been pointed out that the state Disaster Management Authority in 2020 advised the relocation of 4000 families from the landslide -prone areas in Wayanad.Mundakkai was among these areas. However, the advise fell on deaf ears, ecologists said. The Election Commission of India (ECI) will meet leaders of political parties in Srinagar on 8 August to discuss issues related to conduct of the upcoming Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The ECI led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, along with election commissioners, Gyanesh Kumar and SS Sandhu, will visit J&K from 8 to 10 August to review the preparations for the polls. At least three representatives of each political party have been invited to meet the ECI at the Sher-e-Kashmir Convention Centre in Srinagar. Advertisement As per the schedule, on 10 August, the Commission will visit Jammu for a review meeting with enforcement agencies. The ECI will also hold meetings with the chief electoral officer, administration and central armed forces to review the preparations. Additionally, the Commission will review preparations with the Chief Secretary, DGP, District Election Officers, and Superintendents of Police from all 20 districts. The ECI has indicated that assembly elections will be held in Jammu and Kashmir before 30 September, the deadline set by the Supreme Court. The poll body has asked the Jammu and Kashmir administration to transfer officials posted in their home districts, as well as those connected with the election process that will be completing a three-year tenure on or before 30 September. It is worth mentioning that the PDP-BJP coalition government headed by Mehbooba Mufti fell in June 2018 when the latter withdrew support to her. Thereafter, J&K has remained without an elected government as it was put under the central rule and it was split into two union territories in August 2019 when the Article 370 was also scrapped. The security forces and a group of terrorists are locked in a fierce encounter in the Basantgarh area of the Udhampur district of Jammu. Initial reports suggest that three to four heavily armed terrorists are trapped in the Khaned area in the cordon of a joint team of security forces comprising the Army, the CRPF and the J&K Police. According to the police, security forces have established contact with the hiding terrorists in the upper reaches and trapped them in the forested area. Advertisement According to DIG Udhampur-Reasi Range Rayees Bhat, a search operation was carried out in the early hours of Tuesday after specific input about the presence of terrorists was received. The DIG wrote on X; After specific input was gleaned regarding movement in the area, a SADO was launched in the wee hours today by our parties; contact has been established with a group of terrorists in Khaned area of PS Basantgarh. Operation underway. Further details of the encounter are awaited. It is worth mentioning that the security forces have been receiving inputs about movement of Pakistani terrorists on the upper reaches of the Doda, Kathua and Udhampur districts where they attacked security forces personnel last month. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday said that former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sought approval to come to India on a very short notice following her resignation on August 5 as thousands of protesters marched towards her official residence in Dhaka. In his address to the Parliaments upper house, Jaishankar said that New Delhi has been in touch with authorities in Dhaka and that the government is monitoring ground situation in neighbouring country. The External Affairs Minister provided key details about the developments leading to Bangladeshi Prime Ministers resignation. Advertisement On 5th August, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi, he said in Rajya Sabha. Speaking further on the situation in Bangladesh, Jaishankar emphasized the governments concerns regarding the protection of Indian nationals in the neighbouring country marred by protests and violence. We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students. The bulk of the students returned in July, he stated. Dr. Jaishankar also addressed concerns regarding the protection of minorities in Bangladesh amid escalating violence and threats from radical groups. We are also monitoring the situation concerning the status of minorities. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organizations to ensure their protection and well-being. We welcome these efforts, but we remain deeply concerned until law and order are visibly restored, he told Parliament. In response to the crisis, Indias border guarding forces have been instructed to heighten their vigilance. Our border guarding forces have also been instructed to be exceptionally alert. In light of the complex situation over the last 24 hours, we have been in regular contact with the authorities in Dhaka, he elaborated. Highlighting the friendly relations between India-Bangladesh, he said, Many governments are concerned about recent violence and instability, which is shared across the political spectrum. Since the election in January 2024, there has been considerable tension Properties of individuals associated with the regime were torched across the country. What is particularly worrying is that minorities, businesses, and temples also came under attack at multiple locations. The full extent of this is still not clear. Hasina, who fled her country amid violent protests, landed at Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad, near Delhi on Monday evening after fleeing from Bangladesh. Minutes after she left, hundreds of protesters entered the Ganabhaban, the official residence of the former Bangladesh PM, and resorted to looting and vandalism. Shortly after this, Bangladeshi Army Chief General Waker-Us-Zaman announced formation of an interim government. In a televised address, the Army Chief said, After holding a fruitful discussion with all political parties, we have decided to form an interim government. We will speak with President Mohammed Shahabuddin now to resolve the situation. Urging protesters to halt the violence, the Army Chief promised that the new government will ensure justice for all the deaths that took place during the Anti-Discriminatory Student Movement. The political instability in Bangladesh and the abrupt departure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from Dhaka have sparked significant concern in New Delhi, raising the spectre of increased cross-border influx into the northeastern states of India. The potential rise in infiltration from Bangladesh, already a critical issue in the region, is now at the forefront of discussions. Student organizations, such as the All Assam Students Union and the Khasi Students Union, have sounded the alarm about the possible increase in illegal crossings through the porous border. Advertisement Bangladesh shares a 4,096-kilometer border with India, touching West Bengal and several northeastern states. Fears of an influx from a politically unstable Bangladesh gripped the Northeast. Tipra Motha, a constituent of the BJP-led government in Tripura, appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to take measures to prevent infiltration. In Assam, the Opposition Congress and the Assam Jatiya Parishad expressed concerns about potential border breaches due to the unsealed border. Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Bhupen Kumar Borah emphasized the need for heightened vigilance along the Bangladesh border to prevent illegal entries, including those of fundamentalist and extremist elements. We must be extra cautious. Both the state government and the Centre need to ensure that the unrest in Bangladesh does not adversely affect Assam, the Northeast, and India, Borah stated. The Indo-Bangla border spans 4,096 kilometers, with 2,217 kilometers along West Bengal and 318 kilometers along Mizoram. While Meghalaya has imposed a night curfew along the Indo-border, Assam issued a high alert along the border areas. The fall of the Hasina regime could exacerbate another issue for India: many northeastern insurgent groups have historically used Bangladesh as a safe haven for anti-India activities. Since coming to power in 1996, Hasina has cracked down on these groups. However, with fundamentalist factions potentially gaining power in Bangladesh, supported by China and Pakistan, India could face significant challenges. Additionally, the instability in Bangladesh poses a threat to Indias Act East Policy, where Bangladesh plays a crucial role as a major trade route. The evolving political landscape in Bangladesh could disrupt this strategic initiative, complicating Indias efforts to enhance economic and diplomatic ties with Southeast Asia. The first phase of Indias largest multilateral air exercise Tarang Shakti began at Sulur in Tamil Nadu Tuesday. Nearly 30 countries are participating in the exercise that aims to showcase Indias defence prowess and provide a platform for participating militaries to foster interoperability. The first phase of the exercise will conclude on 14 August while the second phase in Jodhpur, Rajasthan will be held from 29 August-14 September. Advertisement Ten countries, including Australia, Bangladesh, France, Germany, Greece, Spain, United Arab Emirates, the UK, USA, and Singapore are joining the exercise with their aircraft while 18 countries will participate as observers. India will showcase its Indigenously-made fighter aircraft and equipment. Indias fighter aircraft including Tejas, Rafale, Mirage 2000, Jaguar and MIG 29 aircraft will take part in the exercise. According to Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, It is a huge feather in our cap that we have been able to organise an exercise of such a huge scale in India. We have been carrying out bilateral exercises with many countries over the years and this is the first time we are doing a multilateral exercise of this scale. Its a challenge and the Air Force and all participants have lived up to the challenge. A British High Commission release said the Royal Air Force (RAF) will join the Indian Air Force (IAF) and counterparts from Germany, Spain, and France in the first phase of the IAFs maiden multilateral exercise Tarang Shakti. The RAF contingent comprising 130 personnel, six Eurofighter Typhoons, two A330 Voyager air to air refuellers and an A-400M military transport aircraft arrived at Sulur Air Force Station in Tamil Nadu. The exercise provides an excellent opportunity for the RAF to work closely with the IAF alongside other nations in a more challenging multilateral environment, significantly enhancing interoperability and sharing best practice. British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron said: I congratulate the Indian Air Force on organising its first multilateral air exercise, Tarang Shakti, and am delighted that the Royal Air Force is one of the key participants. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday chaired a meeting of party leaders to discuss the recent Supreme Court (SC) decision on the SC/ST reservation. Kharge, who is also the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, held the meeting at his residence here in presence of Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders. During the one-and-a-half-hour meeting, they deliberated on the recent decision of the apex court on SC/ST reservation and the proposed caste census. Advertisement Talking to reporters after the meeting, Congress general secretary in-charge of Communication Jairam Ramesh said, Today, Congress president called a meeting. Some MPs and leaders of the party were present. Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha were also present.The topic of the meeting was the recent decision of the Supreme Court regarding the SC/ST reservation and quota within quota. Discussion was held on this. The meeting lasted for around one and half an hour. It was decided that the Congress president would meet the chief ministers of the Congress-ruled state and would talk to the partys state presidents and leaders. In the coming few days, the Congress party will take a decision on the verdict, he said. He said the Congress chief would also speak to the representatives of the civil society in this regard. Ramesh, who is also a Rajya Sabha the Congress MP, said caste census was also discussed during the meeting. He said the LoP in the Lok Sabha has been demanding caste census. Last week, the SC, in an important judgment unsettling the perceived homogeneity of the SC and ST for the purposes of reservation, ruled that SCs are not a homogeneous group and the sub-classification amongst them is permissible for extending the benefits of the affirmative action to the most deprived sections amongst them. Holding that SCs are not a homogeneous group and sub-classification for extending the benefits of reservation was permissible, Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, speaking for himself and Justice Manoj Misra, said that the 2004 judgment by a five-judge Constitution bench holding that the sub-classification amongst the SC and ST was impermissible was not a correct law and overruled it. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, August 6. Uzbekistan has sealed the deal and inked a Memorandum of Cooperation with Chengdu Xingrong Renewable Energy Co., Ltd. and Chengdu Shiny Technology Co., Ltd. to join forces in the development and execution of projects aimed at turning trash into treasure, generating energy from waste, Trend reports. The document was signed during a meeting with representatives of the state-owned enterprise China Chengdu Environment Investment Group at the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change. At the meeting, information was presented on reforms being implemented in the field of waste management in Uzbekistan, areas for investment, and preferences provided for investors. The general director of the Chinese company spoke about long-term plans to be implemented in Uzbekistan. Interest was also expressed in the activities of treatment facilities and landfills intended for waste transportation. Meanwhile, Uzbekistans foreign trade turnover volume with China amounted to $5.8 billion from January through June 2024. This figure is 9.4 percent higher year-on-year ($5.3 billion in JanuaryJune 2023). China ranks first among the countries with the largest volume of foreign trade turnover in Uzbekistan. The countrys share in the total volume of trade turnover in Uzbekistan accounts for 18.5 percent. Uttar Pradeshs Minister of Tourism and Culture Jaiveer Singh announced that the state government will celebrate the 5251st birth anniversary of Lord Shri Krishna with grandeur and divinity. He further stated that there would be no shortage of funds. Jaiveer Singh held a preparatory meeting with the saints regarding the 5251st Shri Krishna Janmotsav (Janmashtmi celebration) in the auditorium of Uttar Pradesh Braj Tirtha Vikas Parishad office in Mathura on Tuesday. He mentioned that on the day of Lord Krishnas Janmashtami, a large number of devotees from all over the world come to see the Janmotsav. Therefore, arrangements for health, security, traffic, parking, traffic routes, electricity, cleanliness, drinking water, lighting, and toilets should be ensured at the venue. He also emphasised that an adequate police force should be provided to control the crowd and ensure safe arrangements for traffic and exits. Advertisement The Tourism minister expressed that the Janmotsav should be organised grandly. He highlighted that the timeless messages given by Lord Krishna in the Shrimad Bhagwat are for the welfare of the entire humanity and encourage continuous progress on the path of duty. These messages contain essential facts for human welfare. He also stated that the Janmotsav should be widely publicised and suggested that a 9-day festival be celebrated from Rakshabandhan to Nandotsav, with events organised in all homes, temples, and ashrams. Public representatives and saints suggested that Raasleela should be staged in all the Braj region auditoriums and that Shri Krishnas stories should be recited on the Leela stage of Shri Krishna Janmasthan. This would help spread the messages of Lord Krishna throughout the world and India. Some saints also suggested connecting Dwarka and Kurukshetra with this Janmotsav. Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Monday said that Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has not been appointed as an interlocutor for peace talks in the wake of the ethnic violence in the state. The Chief Minister told the Manipur assembly that the reports in a section of the media and social media were not true and that the Mizoram Chief Minister would mediate in the Manipur ethnic crisis and the peace talks. Singh said that on the sideline of the NITI Aayog meeting in New Delhi on July 27, he met with Assam Chief Minister (Himanta Biswa Sarma), Nagaland Chief Minister (Neiphiu Rio) and Mizoram Chief Minister and held casual interactions on a few issues on the northeastern states. Advertisement During the casual interaction with the Mizoram Chief Minister, I had requested him to visit Manipur. These casual conversations were interpreted otherwise and blown out of proportion with many saying Lalduhoma has been appointed as interlocutor, he said. The Chief Minister said that the Prime Ministers Office or the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has the authority to appoint an interlocutor for a certain purpose. So far no such steps have been taken or discussed, he told the house. An official of Mizoram Chief Ministers Office earlier said that Lalduhoma held a meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in his residence in New Delhi on August 1 and urged him to hold talks with the tribal leaders of Manipur, as part of the efforts to resolve the ethnic crisis prevailing in the neighbouring state. Due to the ethnic, cultural and traditional similarities between Manipurs Kuki-Zo-Hmar tribes with the Mizos of Mizoram, the tribal leaders of Manipur held meetings on several occasions in Aizawl with the incumbent Chief Minister Lalduhoma and former Chief Minister Zoramthanga, when he was in office, and discussed the ethnic violence and the tribals sufferings in the neighbouring country. President Droupadi Murmu received the Companion of the Order of Fiji, its highest civilian award, during her ongoing visit to the country. Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere conferred the award on her, acknowledging the strong relationship between India and Fiji. During her visit, Murmu addressed the Fijian Parliament, reaffirming Indias willingness to collaborate with Fiji on projects that benefit both nations. She highlighted shared values such as democracy and human rights. President Droupadi Murmu reached Suva, Fiji this morning from Nadi where she landed yesterday on the first leg of her State Visit to Fiji, New Zealand and Timor-Leste. She was received by Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka at the airport and accorded a ceremonial welcome. Advertisement A traditional welcome ceremony was organised for President Murmu in the presence of the Prime Minister of Fiji. Subsequently, the President visited the State House where she was warmly received by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji. The two leaders discussed ways to further deepen the India-Fiji relationship. The President said that India remains committed to strengthening its relations and development partnership with the Pacific Island Countries (PICs), among which Fiji is an important partner. President Murmu also witnessed the progress of the Solarisation of Heads of State Residences project, an Indian initiative which was inaugurated in February last year. In the next engagement, the President addressed the Parliament of Fiji. She said that despite the vast difference in the size of the two countries, both India and Fiji have much in common, including vibrant democracies. She assured the Fijian parliamentarians that as a close friend and partner with rich experience of fostering democracy at the grassroots level, India stands ready to partner Fiji at all times. President Murmu added that today, Fiji is recognized around the world for its growing contribution to common efforts, focused on two major global challenges climate change and addressing human conflicts. Whether it is shaping the global dialogue on climate change or voicing the concerns of the ocean-states, Fiji has been contributing immensely to the global good. India greatly values and applauds the increasingly prominent role played by Fiji around the world. The President said that the rest of the world has much to learn from Fiji, including the gentle Fijian way of life, the deep-rooted respect for traditions and customs and an open and multicultural environment. She was happy to note that India-Fiji cooperation in various sectors continues to grow from strength to strength. In the wake of intense political unrest in Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina has taken refuge in India after resigning as prime minister of the neighbouring country amid violent protests. Although her aircraft has taken off from Hindon Air Base, the former Bangladesh prime minister has chosen to remain in India for the time being. The Indian government is providing her with all necessary support while she plans her next course of action. Earlier today, External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar convened an all-party meeting in Parliament to brief on the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh and its implications for the region. Advertisement During the meeting, Jaishankar detailed the unfolding events in Dhaka and outlined Indias strategic response to them. He, on behalf of the government, assured of all precautions to be taken to safeguard Indian interests and its citizens including about 20,000 Indian nationals staying in the neighbouring country. Of these, 8,000 have already been evacuated as the Indian High Commission in Dhaka remained operational there. The political turmoil in Bangladesh, sparked by student-led protests against the quota system for government jobs, has culminated into a broader anti-government movement. After Hasinas resignation and subsequent departure from Dhaka, the Bangladeshi military announced the formation of an interim government. Reports suggest that the coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus to lead the interim government. A delegation of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) met the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha here on Tuesday. The delegation, comprising Darshan Pal, Balbir Singh, and nine other members, met Gandhi in his office at the Parliament House. During their meeting, they discussed various issues pertaining to the farmers. Advertisement Congress general secretary in-charge of the organisation KC Venugopal and partys communication in-charge Jairam Ramesh were also present. Notably, a delegation of 12 farmer leaders, under the aegis of Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and SKM, met Gandhi inside the Parliament premises on 24th July, a day after the Union Budget was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The farmers discussed the issue of Minimum Support Price (MSP) and urged the LoP in the Lower House to raise the matter in the House. Legal guarantee of MSP is the right of the farmers. INDIA alliance will ensure they get this right, Gandhi told reporters after the meeting. It may be mentioned that the INDIA bloc parties have been critical of the government and accused it of neglecting the issues of farmers. Meanwhile, a delegation of the Sarva Seva Sangh also met the LoP in his office. Leaders of the Oppositions INDIA bloc on Tuesday staged protests outside Parliaments Makar Dwar against the central governments decision to impose an 18 per cent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on life and health insurance premiums. Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also joined INDIA alliance members in demanding the rollback of the GST on insurance premiums. Holding placards that read GST on health insurance is tax terrorism, the Opposition leaders demanded the government to withdraw the GST on health and life insurance.Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, while speaking to a news agency in Parliament premises, denounced the tax on health insurance, saying 18 per cent GST is not fair to people. You cant really impose GST on something as essential as life insurance. The government has announced a policy of life insurance and health insurance for all by 2047, and now they are taxing in such a way that there is no possibility to ever achieve that. We already have the highest out-of-pocket expenses in health, and now they also want 18% GSTthis is not fair to people, Tharoor stated. Mahua Maji, representing the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), echoed Tharoors sentiments, criticizing the Modi government for its hasty implementation of the tax. She vowed their fight will continue untill the government reduces the GST on health insurance. Advertisement The Modi government implements anything without thinking. If 18% GST is imposed on the health sector, the middle class will be affected by this the most. This is a big injustice to the country. Therefore, the INDIA alliance held a protest here. This fight will continue until GST on the health sector is reduced, Maji declared. The 18 per cent GST on health and life insurance is also being criticised within the BJP-led NDA government. Last month, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari had written a letter to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, urging her to reconsider the imposition of GST on life and health insurance premiums. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday came out against Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav for blaming the states policies for the landslides in Wayanad. Speaking to media persons here, Pinarayi Vijayan said the Union Minister Bhupender Yadav is levelling false allegations, without even the slightest understanding of the hilly region of Kerala. Chief Minister Vijayan accused the Union Minister Yadav of humiliating those who died in landslides through his statements. Advertisement Some are using the tragedy for their narrow interest. Such is the statement of the Union Environment Minister, he said. The Chief Minister also asked if those killed in the Wayanad landslides were illegal immigrants. The Union Minister is insulting the people who have been affected by such a calamity by making such false accusations. Who are the illegal immigrants here? Are the workers of the estate who were affected by this disaster? Or ordinary people who lived on their little piece of land? Those who have even the slightest understanding of the hilly region of Kerala cannot label the people living there as illegal immigrants, CM Vijayan said. Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav on Monday, blamed the Kerala government for allowing illegal habitation and mining which he claimed, led to the horrific landslides in Wayanad. The number one reason for the landslide was habitation. Number two was illegal mining with the protection of the local government and its very shameful, Bhupender Yadav said. The killing of Hamas political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, in Tehran, possibly by Israel, has escalated tensions in the region. Ismail was in Tehran for the swearing-in of the new Iranian President, Masoud Pezeshkian, also attended by Indian cabinet minister, Nitin Gadkari. The fact that Israel was aware of his precise location and could strike accurately is damaging to Irans security apparatus. The Iranian president commented, Yesterday I raised his (Ismails) victorious hand and today I have to bury him on my shoulders. The Islamic Republic of Iran will defend its territorial integrity, honour, dignity and pride, and make the terrorist occupiers regret their cowardly action. Israel on its part has neither denied nor accepted responsibility for the assassination. Its PM, Benjamin Netanyahu, mentioned Israel will exact a heavy price from any aggression against us on any front. He did not mention the Ismail incident. Israels spokesperson refused to comment on the subject. It had already announced its intent to eliminate Ismail immediately after the 7 October 2023 attacks. Israel has also sent a message to all terrorist groups and Iran that it is willing to escalate conflict in case of any retaliation. This was the third major assassination on the same day. Israel had earlier killed top Hezbollah commander, Fuad Shukr, by a missile strike in Beirut. He was responsible for the missile attack on Israel resulting in the death of 12 members of the Druze community. Shukr was on the wanted list of the US, being behind the 1983 bombing which killed 300 US and French soldiers in Beirut. In addition, there was the killing of Irans IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) commander, Brigadier General Amir Hajizadeh, in Damascus. Advertisement He is believed to have been the brain behind Irans missile strikes on Israel earlier this year. Iran and Israel had traded missile attacks in April post Israel targeting the Iranian diplomatic compound in Damascus. Three assassinations in three different capitals displayed the reach of Israels intelligence and its strike capability. The US secretary of state as also secretary of defence avoided commenting on the killing of Ismail, with Antony Blinken insisting that the US would continue to push for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Blinken mentioned, This is something we were not aware of or involved in. However, few believe the US. Hamas backers Turkey, Qatar, Pakistan, China and Russia condemned the killing. Egypt and Qatar, which were closely involved in peace talks, were most vocal, aware that the situation could deteriorate. All Palestinian groups, most of whom had differences amongst themselves, united in condemnation. They had all recently inked the Beijing accord. In fact, the leader of the Islamic Jihad, another Gaza terrorist group and on Israels hitlist, was located in the same building as Ismail but on a different floor. He was not targeted. Turkey was contemplating having Ismail address the Turkish parliament as a counter to Netanyahu speaking to the US Congress. Hence, Erdogan even threatened to invade Israel. The assassination of Fuad Shukr would result in Hezbollah and its allies increasing their strikes on Israel. Ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel is now in cold storage. What is more damaging is the killing of Ismail on Iranian soil. This is a political assassination and an insult to the host nation, Iran. Ignoring the incident will be immensely damaging to its global reputation, as was the case of Pakistan with the elimination of Osama Bin Laden on its soil. While all its proxies would concentrate on challenging Israel, the direct involvement of Iran could add to ongoing tensions. The Iranian leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has already ordered direct strikes on Israel from Iranian soil. While Iran will respond to save face, it would seek to avoid an open confrontation with Israel. The US has warned of attacks from Iran in the coming days. US and British ships are being redeployed off the coast of Israel as a precautionary measure. US troops in the region are being placed on high alert. US air defence resources would be employed alongside those of Israel. Israel launched air strikes against Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis, hoping to degrade their capabilities, prior to getting involved in a conflict with Iran. The question remains how Iran would respond. Most likely Iran would employ missiles to target Israel, avoiding utilizing its weak air power, which could be easily destroyed by Israels superior air force. Its strength lies in its missiles and drones, which it possesses in large numbers. It is also aware that the US and UK would jointly employ their resources alongside Israels Iron Dome, to thwart its strikes. Hence, it would need to coordinate simultaneous assaults by the Hezbollah, Houthis and other allied terrorist groups to ensure maximum impact. Retaliatory strikes from Israel could be definitely more damaging as Irans air defence is weak with sizable gaps which are known to Israel. There is also a question of the security of its nuclear installations, a target Netanyahu has been eyeing for some time. His requests to the US to launch air strikes on these have been repeatedly ignored. In case of an escalation, this could come in as a major target. Iran would avoid targeting Israels population centres as it would not desire an expansion of the conflict. Its proxies would have no such concerns. Israel is seeking a regime change in Tehran and hence would not desire to alienate the Iranian population, many of whom are against the current regime. Its targets would be the political and religious leadership, IRGC bases and strategic installations. Iran would also need to secure its strategic assets before initiating any strike. Other nations wading into the conflict is unlikely, despite all their bravado. Oil prices would definitely witness a rise, impacting the global economy. Chances of peace in the Middle East have now receded. However, what would be more damaging is safety and security of the hostages in the captivity of Hamas as well as the future of Gazans. Gaza would witness further destruction while survival of the hostages is in doubt. No retaliatory strikes from Hamas thus far implies deterioration of its military power. Recruitment of Hamas in Gaza would gain ground. Netanyahu has ensured the conflict gets prolonged as also his continuity as PM. (The writer is a retired Major-General of the Indian Army.) The surge of anti-immigration unrest in Britain underscores the perilous impact of misinformation and the deep-seated issues within the nations sociopolitical landscape. The catalyst, a horrific knife attack in Southport that tragically claimed the lives of three young girls, was quickly and erroneously linked to immigration and religious extremism. Despite official statements clarifying that the suspect was British-born with a Christian background, the damage had already been done. The narrative of an immigrant perpetrator spread like wildfire, ig niting latent prejudices and sparking violent protests acr oss the country. This situation reveals a troubling aspect of contemporary British society: the readiness of some gro ups to exploit tragedies for their own divisive agendas. The rapid dissemination of false information by anti-immigrant and far right factions has not only stoked fear and anger but has also laid bare the fragility of social cohesion in the face of orchestrated disinformation campaigns. Such tactics are a stark reminder of the power and peril of social media in shaping public perception and inciting unrest. The new Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmers administration now faces an immediate and formidable challenge. Having recently taken office, Mr Starmer must navigate the complexities of a nation divided by fear and misinfor ma tion. His condemnation of the far-right groups responsible for inciting violence is a crucial first step, but it must be accompanied by tangible actions to restore order and address the root causes of such unrest. One of the fundamental issues at play is the persistent marginalisation and sca pegoating of immigrant communities. The violent protests and the targeting of hotels housing asylum seekers highlight a disturbing trend of dehumanising those who seek refuge and a better life in Britain. These actions not only un dermine the nations moral and ethical standards but also fuel a cycle of resentment and hostility that is counter productive to societal harmony. Advertisement To address these challenges, the government must adopt a multifaceted approach. First, there needs to be a concerted effort to combat misin formation through robust fact-checking mechanisms and public awareness campaigns. Educating the public on the dangers of false narratives and the importance of critical thinking is essential in fostering a more informed and resi lient society. Secondly, policies aimed at better integrating immigrant communities should be prioritised. Providing adequate support, opportunities for education and employment, and promoting inclusive dialogue can help bridge the gaps of misunderstanding and prejudice. Ensuring that immigrants feel welcomed and valued is crucial in countering the narratives peddled by extremist groups. Moreover, law enforcement must be equipped and empowered to deal with both the immediate threat of violence and the broader issue of hate crimes. A strong stance against those who incite and participate in violence, coupled with efforts to build trust between police and communities, can help to maintain order and promote justice. Britain can navigate through this turbulent period and emerge stronger and more cohesive. The path forward requires leadership, empathy, and a steadfast commitment to the values of justice and equality Japanese researchers have developed a more accurate method that comes with high diagnostic power to screen against cervical cancer from mucus samples. Cervical cancer has approximately 500,000 new cases diagnosed each year. But the number of people diagnosed with precursor lesions in the cervix also known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) is 20 times higher. Researchers from Fujita Health University aimed to identify biomarkers that could assist in the early detection of cervical cancer. Advertisement Currently, the two most widely used screening procedures for these conditions are human papillomavirus (HPV) tests and cytology examinations. While cytology has rather low sensitivity for detecting CIN, HPV tests are highly sensitive. Yet HPV infections do not always lead to cervical lesions, resulting in poor specificity. The new study, published in the journal Cancer Science, focussed on a series of compounds that showed abnormal expression in serum and cervical mucus samples in cervical cancer patients. These findings could potentially revolutionise disease prevention strategies, said the team. They initially looked to find how changes in local immunity are related to cervical cancer, and aimed to study all the currently known microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with the development and progression of cervical tumours, said Professor Takuma Fujii. The team compared the miRNA and cytokine profiles from serum and mucus samples, collected from patients with cervical cancer or CIN, over approximately eight years. Initial screening pointed out three candidate miRNAs and five candidate cytokines in serum, and five candidate miRNAs and seven candidate cytokines in mucus. While miRNAs and cytokines in serum showed limited diagnostic accuracy, a specific combination of miRNAs and cytokines in mucus samples proved much more promising. This suggests that focusing on changes in local expression levels, rather than serum levels, may offer a superior diagnostic strategy, said the team. Our study, for the first time, demonstrates that analysing mucus samples can distinguish cervical tumours from normal tissues more accurately than serum samples, Fujii said. Elnur Enveroglu European and Western institutions have once again shown their true intentions by acting from their biased positions. From 2020 until today, the political agents of Europe, suffering from serious anxiety syndrome, can neither calm down nor retreat from their pro-Armenian positions. Toivo Klaar, EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia, was remembered for a very regrettable step when he was about to leave his 10-year term. In fact, it is not something new that we witness in this region, but at least being honest once in life when especially completing the service, would be a generous step. Toivo Klaar's biased comment also spontaneously invalidates the meetings held by Europe, either in Brussels or in the United States, under the name of "peace platform". The unjust position of the EU Special Representative literally breaks the balance of the scales of justice. Klaar says that the EU did not play an active role in Azerbaijan-Armenia relations until 2020. His role was mostly to support the "work" of the former Minsk Group co-chairs. The activity of the European Union started mostly after 2020, i.e. after the period when Azerbaijan liberated its territories from Armenian occupation during the Patriotic War. Does the West seem to be more aggressor than Armenia? Undoubtedly, the fact that Azerbaijani territories were once under occupation could not worry the West as much as it does now. Western and European institutions, organizations, and politicians thought that time was in their favour until a war broke out in Garabagh with Armenias provocations. They believed that the Garabagh conflict would be permanently frozen and the conflict status would be removed after some time. However, Azerbaijan's changing geostrategic situation in the South Caucasus disappointed the parties and even made them suffer from anxiety syndrome. Realities behind Wests "Peace Talks Platform" Although the Garabagh conflict ended with the victory of Azerbaijan in the just struggle, the Western side still refuses to comply with realities. The negotiation process, which is deliberately prolonged, either is cancelled with an excuse every time, or remains fruitless until the next negotiation process thrown by a third party for Armenias favour. For example, the West, which said that the processes between Armenia and Azerbaijan were progressing positively after the last negotiations, soon brought up the unnecessary issue of the release of separatist criminals imprisoned in Baku at the request of Armenia. Later, it led to a baseless accusation against Baku, regarding Armenians who voluntarily moved from Garabagh to Armenia. Toivo Klaar's comment is part of these unjust statements. He does not mention the fate of Azerbaijanis who were displaced from current Armenian territories in the late 1980s and from Garabagh following the first Garabagh War in the 1990s. His biased position pushes beyond Armenia's claims. Nevertheless, why so much zeal, and so much initiative in peace negotiations? Maybe it is time to make the position clear and say who is with which side and what they are serving. It turns out that Armenia gains time with the support of their European allies by prolonging the negotiation process. However, Baku is blamed when things go wrong and do not match the plan of Western institutions. The European representative is already preparing to hand over his post to his new colleague, and the Council appoints Magdalena Grono as EUSR for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia. And we still try to find answer to the question of whether this will change anything, or is it worth believing that the arrival of the new representative will bring a positive atmosphere to the region? BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres believes the world is once again faced with the threat of real use of nuclear weapons, he said in a message on the occasion of the 79th anniversary of the American atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Trend reports. "Nuclear weapons and threats of their use are not just the stuff of history books. Such everyday rhetoric is once again making its presence felt in the context of international relations," Guterres noted, stressing that this is a real threat that the world is currently facing. The UN Secretary General expressed confidence that the only way to finally eradicate the threat of nuclear weapons is to completely abandon them. Keenly watching the ongoing chaos in Bangladesh, many analysts in Pakistan see the current crisis in Dhaka as an opportunity to regain lost ground. As Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and left the country on Monday following weeks of violent student protests, an intense debate kicked off in Islamabad on the stand that Pakistan needs to take in the coming days. Sheikh Hasina was pro-India and anti-Pakistan. She was against Muslim organisations like Jamaat-e-Islami and others. She was also very aggressive in responding to the latest protests by the students and youth, said Aizaz Chaudhry, who served as the Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States. Advertisement Hasina had taken a hardline stance as recent reports suggested that she had asked security forces to crush the protesters. This is not how a democracy works, added the diplomat. Accusing Hasina of putting Bangladesh in the laps of India, Chaudhry admitted that the Bangladesh PM had become a cult figure over the years. Some other experts saw the development as bad news for India and also an opportunity for Pakistan to mend its relationship with the new regime in Dhaka. Pakistan should see this as an opportunity. Sheikh Hasina was anti-Pakistan but the new government that will assume power will not follow in her footsteps. There could be an opening for Pakistan here to capitalise in terms of forming a new relationship through confidence-building measures, said senior political analyst Kamran Yousaf. The next few days will be critical in terms of the political situation in Bangladesh, which many see as the second liberation of the country after its first successful and historical civil disobedience campaign during the 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan. Hasina left Bangladesh on Monday after thousands of students called for a protest rally in Dhaka and vowed to take over the Prime Ministers house. Sources said that Hasina wanted to record a message to the nation but was denied the opportunity with the Bangladesh army giving her only 45 minutes to leave the country after resigning from the top post. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Monday claimed that a top Hamas terrorist, who halted the humanitarian aid from reaching Gaza, has been killed. ELIMINATED: Abed Al-Zeriei a Hamas terrorist who stopped humanitarian aid from reaching Gazan civilians, the IDF said in a post on X. According to the Israeli forces, Al-Zeriei was involved with the manufacturing department of Hamas military wing and was operating as its Minister of Economy in Gaza. Advertisement The Hamas official had a significant role in directing Hamas efforts to seize control of humanitarian aid entering Gaza and in managing Hamas-controlled markets, an IDF statement claimed. Additionally, he was responsible for the distribution of fuel, gas, and funds for terrorist purposes, the statement added. Meanwhile, on Sunday afternoon, Israeli drones and warplanes conducted 15 airstrikes across 10 villages and towns in the border area of southern Lebanon and three towns and villages in the Jezzine area, Lebanese military and medical sources said. The tensions in the Middle East escalated after Hamas political head Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Tehran after he attended the swearing-in ceremony of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. He was killed along with his bodyguard early on Wednesday when their residence in Tehran was hit by airstrikes. Meanwhile, caution prevails in Lebanon following Israels attack on Dahieh in Beiruts southern suburbs last week, which killed senior Hezbollah military commander Fouad Shokor. A US judge has ruled that tech giant Google spent billions of dollars to beat competition in order to become world's default search engine. According to the 277-page ruling, Google controls 89.2% share of the market for general search services and this surges to 94.9% on smartphones. The court reaches the following conclusion: Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly, US District Judge Amit Mehta ruled. He said that in 2021 alone, parent company Alphabet spent $26.3 billion to ensure that Google is the default search engine on browsers and devices. Mehta said that even if a new entrant is positioned from a quality standpoint to bid for the default when an agreement expires, such a firm could compete only if it is prepared to pay billions of dollars in revenue share. The ruling, which was given in a case filed during the Trump administration, now leads to a second trial to determine potential remedial measures including breakup of parent company Alphabet. Alphabet said it will appeal Mehta's decision, stating that the ruling recognises that Google offers the best search engine but concludes that "we shouldn't be allowed to make it easily available." US Attorney General Merrick Garland has dubbed the ruling a "historic win for the American people", pointing out the no company is above the law, no matter how gigantic or influential they are. Tata Power, already among the largest renewable energy players, is stepping up its investments in this space, picking up a 40 per cent stake in a hydro power project in Bhutan, while also keen to explore opportunities to develop small modular nuclear reactors. In the Union Budget last month, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced that nuclear energy was likely to form a very significant part of the energy mix for a developed India and towards that pursuit, the government would partner with private sector for setting up Bharat small reactors and research and development of newer technologies for nuclear energy. "The government's announcement is that they will be coming with the policy, which will support public-private-partnership. That means, there would be a government entity along with the private sector who can develop these small modular reactors, which I am told are typically of 200-300 MW capacity. We are trying to work out the technical details and what type of opportunity will be there, once we get more details. From our side, we will definitely examine the opportunity, to seize the opportunity, so we can add to our clean energy capacity," said Praveer Sinha, CEO and MD of Tata Power. The company has an installed capacity of 6.1 GW of clean energy as of the June quarter and another 5.3 GW is under execution. Tata Power has now partnered with Druk Green Power Corporation Ltd to develop 600 MW Khorlochhu hydro power project in Bhutan with 40 per cent equity investment. The estimated project cost is Rs 6,900 crore. The company will be paying around Rs 830 crore for the 40 per cent stake in Khorlochhu Hydro Power Ltd. "This project will be set up over five years and it has obtained all the approvals. We should be in a position to start work in the later part of this year. Part of the power that will be produced will be used in Bhutan only and part of it will be sold in India," Sinha said explaining the contours of the project. This will be Tata Power's second hydro project in Bhutan. The company already has 126 MW Dagachhu hydro project in the Himalayan kingdom. Unit one of that project was commissioned back in 2015. The Khorlochhu project will give it a larger footprint in Bhutan, noted Sinha. Tata Power aims to increase its clean and green energy portfolio to over 11 GW, accounting for 56 per cent of the total capacity in the next 12-24 months. The company has earlier announced that by 2030, two-thirds of its capacity will be renewable and Sinha said that the company was on the way to that. Tata Power on Tuesday reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 1,189 crore in the April-June quarter, up 4 per cent from a year ago profit of Rs 1,141 crore. Barring exceptional gains in the year ago quarter, the company's profit in the first quarter was up 31 per cent. Revenue from operations for the quarter rose nearly 14 per cent to Rs 17,294 crore, from Rs 15,213 crore. Tata Power incurred capital expenditure of Rs 4,000 crore in the June quarter and plans to invest Rs 20,000 crore this financial year. In the next 2-3 years, it will be looking at similar investments of around Rs 20,000-25,000 crore, said Sinha. While, the company is boosting its renewable energy capacity, in thermal energy, it will keep on examining from time to time opportunities more from an "energy security perspective" and depending on what sort of returns it offered, Sinha noted. At the same time, Tata Power continues to look for opportunities to strengthen its power transmission footprint. It won a 384 CKm (circuit kilometers) Paradeep-Angul 765 kV sub-station bid worth Rs 2,300 crore, taking the total transmission pipeline to over 2,000 CKm. Sinha said the company is confident it will be able to complete the project in 24 months. "We continue to regularly bid and any good project where we are able to identify opportunities, we would be doing that. This (transmission) is an area of growth as is our renewable business and we will continue to focus on them," he added. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday briefed an all-party meeting about the situation in Bangladesh, wherein he said the Centre was in close touch with the Bangladesh Army. In a post on X, he also shared photographs of the meeting at Parliament House. "Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended," Jaishankar posted on the social media platform. Briefing the MPs, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, about the steps taken by the Indian government to address the potential security, economic, and diplomatic issues of this situation, the EAM said the government will take appropriate action at the right time. He also informed the MPs that there were over 20,000 Indian nationals in Bangladesh and over 8,000 of them have returned home. He added that the situation, however, wasn't so bad as to demand evacuation. The Indian High Commission is in touch with the Indian nationals. The meeting also stressed the minorities in Bangladesh and how they needed to be protected. On Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in Delhi, Jaishankar said they want to give her time to decide her future course of action and inform the Centre about it. Jaishankar said the country will protect Hasina. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi asked Jaishankar about India's long-term and short-term strategy on the Bangladesh situation. He also questioned the government on the possible involvement of foreign hands in the current political situation of Bangladesh. To this, the Centre informed that it was looking at all possible angles. Congress leader Karti Chidambaram said the government had briefed an all-party meeting on the situation in Bangladesh. Congress party is fully with the government as far as national security and national interest are concerned," Chidamabaram told PTI. However, he was not present at the meeting. The all-party meeting was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, DMK leader T R Baalu, NCP leader Supriya Sule among others. Union Home Minister Amit Shah met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to review the security situation in the country in the wake of the massive protests in Bangladesh. The anti-government protests in the neighbouring country have led to the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina who fled to India on Monday and is likely to seek asylum in the UK. New Delhi, in its first reaction to the turmoil in Bangladesh, said on Tuesday that its deeply concerned over the situation. Jaishankar, who made a statement in both houses of parliament, said Hasina requested for approval at very short notice to come to India "for the moment". Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi, the foreign minister said. According to reports, India has conveyed to Hasina that she can stay here until her travel plans for taking refuge in another country is finalised. Jaishankar said India is in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through its diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals in Bangladesh, of which about 9,000 are students. The minister said India is also monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities in the neighbouring country. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organizations to ensure their protection and well-being. We welcome that, but will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored, he said. Earlier, at an all-party meeting Jaishankar said Hasina was in shock at the turn of events in her country and the Indian government was giving her time to recover. The minister said India has spoken to the Bangladesh Army chief to ensure the safety of more than 10,000 Indian students in that country and also taken up the issue of attacks on Hindu minorities. Eastern Indian states, including West Bengal and Tripura, stepped up security measures on Tuesday and Bihar police issued an alert for some parts of the state in the wake of unrest in Bangladesh. Cross-border trade also remained stalled through the Petrapole land port in West Bengal with reports suggesting that hundreds of Indian trucks were stuck on the Bangladesh side. Bangladesh plunged into chaos after extraordinary street protests over job quota forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to quit and flee the country on Monday. Security has been tightened along the 4,096 km India-Bangladesh border, with BSF Director General (acting) Daljit Singh Chawdhary visiting the Petrapole border, located in Bongaon in North 24 Parganas district. He reviewed tactical and operational preparedness at the border. Singh also reviewed the current situation and discussed strategies to combat illegal infiltration and smuggling. The BSF officials in Nadia district met with state government officials and villagers in West Bengal's border areas. In a statement on Tuesday, the BSF said it has advised villagers in border areas to avoid movement on the International Border Road (IBBR) during night hours and to close shops by 9 pm. The border guards also reviewed the security situation in Assam. West Bengal shares a total of 2,217 kilometres of its border with Bangladesh, along with Tripura (856 km), Meghalaya (443 km), Assam (262 km), and Mizoram (318 km). Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said he is in touch with New Delhi and has requested security agencies to intensify vigilance along the international border, while the Bihar police issued an alert in several parts of Bihar. The Tripura chief minister said, "We are closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh. I've been in touch with Delhi continuously. I met with the Chief Secretary, DGP, Assam Rifles, and BSF, and instructed them to intensify vigilance along the border. We will take steps based on instructions from Delhi." While talking to reporters, Saha emphasized the importance of coordination among security forces and directed them to prevent any crossings from Bangladesh into Tripura. When asked about specific instructions from Delhi, Saha mentioned that while Delhi is seeking updates on potential issues arising from the political upheaval, no detailed directives have been issued so far. Regarding attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, Saha noted that his government is keeping track of developments in the neighbouring country. "Social media reports indicate that the majority community in Bangladesh is taking steps to protect minority groups. For example, some students have been seen guarding temples. It's a positive sign," he remarked. Meanwhile, trade between India and Bangladesh, which had already been disrupted due to the ongoing unrest, remained stalled as of Tuesday. Ujjal Saha, secretary of the West Bengal Exporters Coordination Committee, stated that the non-clearance of goods by Bangladesh customs has resulted in hundreds of trucks being lined up in parking lots at various land ports. These include Petrapole, Gojadanga, Mahadipur, and Fulbari in West Bengal. "Trade through Petrapole in North 24 Parganas district, the largest land port, remains halted as Benapole customs in Bangladesh are non-functional," Saha noted. Additionally, a three-day holiday declared by the Bangladesh government has further delayed any resumption of trade activities. Ajay Srivastava, the founder of the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), emphasised the need to protect factories in Bangladesh and maintain supply lines to sustain trade and economic activities. "It is essential for all political factions in Bangladesh to ensure the safety of garment and other factories and to keep supply lines open across the border, he said. The political developments in Bangladesh have raised concerns among Indian exporters. Arun Kumar Garodia, chairman of the Engineering Export Promotion Council, highlighted the significant impact on Indian exports to Bangladesh, a key destination for Indian engineering products. The turmoil in Bangladesh has led to the suspension of cross-border transportation services. The Eastern Railway announced that the Kolkata-Dhaka-Kolkata Maitree Express, which has been non-operational since July 19, will remain suspended until further notice. Similarly, the bi-weekly Kolkata-Khulna-Kolkata Bandhan Express, suspended since July 21, has not resumed operations. A Dhaka-bound bus carrying 45 Bangladeshi passengers had to deboard at the Petrapole border as the services were suspended. Abani Ghosh, owner of Shyamali Paribahan which operates bus services from the Indian side in collaboration with the West Bengal Transport Corporation, expressed hope for early resumption of services, citing anxious queries from Bangladeshi passengers in Kolkata. When contacted, a Bangladesh Deputy High Commission official said, We don't have any update about resumption of services as of now. The Kolkata police have beefed up security outside the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission to avoid any untoward incidents. Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who had to resign after widespread protest against her, fled Dhaka for India in a C130J military transport aircraft of Bangladesh Air Force that touched down at Hindon in Ghaziabad on Monday evening. Her journey from Dhaka, as sensitive as it was, was monitored by Indian security agencies which was prepared for any contingency. Sources told ANI that the IAF radars detected a low-level flying aircraft around 3 pm coming towards India. The aircraft was permitted to fly inside India as the air defence personnel knew who was inside the plane. Considering the threat to her life, the aircraft was constantly monitored by security agencies. Two Rafale fighter aircraft from the 101 squadron from Hashimara air base in West Bengal were airborne over Bihar and Jharkhand as Hasina's aircraft moved towards the Hindon airbase. Indian security agencies were also actively communicating with C130J pilots and Bangladesh officials responsible for her security. The Indian Air Force and Army chiefs Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and Gen Upendra Dwivedi were monitoring the situation very closely, sources told ANI. On Hasina's jet landing at Hindan air base around 5:45 pm, she was greeted by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval who held an hour-long meeting with her. Doval later left the airbase to brief a Cabinet Committee of Security meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As for Sheikh Hasina, it is expected that the former five-time prime minister will travel to London, potentially seeking asylum in the UK. Hasina's niece, Tulip Siddiq, is an MP in the House of Commons, the parliament of the UK, while her sister, Sheikh Rehana, is a British citizen. UK Awami League leader Jamal Ahmed Khan, who is close to Sheikh Rehana's family, told Bangla Tribune that a decision will be taken after a few days about where Hasina will go from India. But it is certain that she is not coming to London for now, he added. Her son Sajeeb Wajed Joy told NDTV that though Hasina did not want to leave, she had to as it was not safe for her. Her transport plane will remain parked near Indian Air Force's C-17 and C-130J Super Hercules aircraft hangars. The former Prime Minister is currently in a safe house. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said India is in touch with authorities in Bangladeshs capital Dhaka and is concerned about the law and order situation in the neighbouring country. He added the border forces have been advised to remain exceptionally alert in view of the recent developments. Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar said that all across the political spectrum shared concern about recent violence and instability in Bangladesh. Since the elections in January 2024, there has been considerable tension, deep divides and growing polarisation in Bangladesh politics, he said. Jaishankar added this underlying situation aggravated the student agitation in Bangladesh. Detailing the incidents which led to Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas ouster, Jaishankar said, Demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew on August 5. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, PM Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi, the minister said. Jaishankar added the government is in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh and through diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students. The bulk of the students, however, have already returned to India in the month of July," he said. He added India is also monitoring the situation in regard to minorities in Bangladesh. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being. Naturally, we will remain deeply concerned till law and order is restored. Our border guarding forces have been instructed to be exceptionally alert in video of this complex situation, Jaishankar informed the Rajya Sabha. In the morning, the Centre convened an all-party meeting during which Jaishankar briefed opposition leaders about the situation in the neighbouring country. Reportedly, India has reached out to the Army leadership in Bangladesh and has extended any support for the restoration of normalcy in the country. A routine baggage check by the Railway police personnel at Dadar railway station foiled plans of two differently-abled men who were scheming to discreetly dispose off a trolley stuffed with a dead body. The hearing-and-speech-impaired men allegedly hammered the 30-year-old to death. Personnel from the Railway Protection Force and Government Railway Police were conducting routine baggage checks at Dadar railway station on Monday when they felt suspicious about a man standing holding to a huge trolley baggage on platform 11 at the station. Police took the man, Jay Pravin Chawda, into custody and checked his bag only to find a dead body stuffed in it. The deceased was identified as Arshad Ali Sadique Ali Shaikh (30), a resident of Kalina in Santacruz. He was bludgeoned to death with a hammer, police said. Chawda's accomplice Shivjeet Surendra Singh managed to escape from the place and he was later nabbed by Mumbai police from Ulhasnagar in Thane. The accused were hearing and speech impaired and they were facing some difficulties with the probe, police said. According to police, the accused and the victim Ali Shaikh were friends and they murdered him following a quarrel over a woman. Pydhonie police have taken over the probe from Dadar railway police as the murder occurred at the formers police limits. The accused will be produced in court on Tuesday and custody will be sought, police said. French film director and screenwriter Gaspar Noe, who became famous in 2002 after the release of the movie Irreversible with Monica Bellucci and Vincent Cassel, came to Moscow. The Frenchman visited a number of clubs and took photos with Russian fans on Red Square. ADVERTISIMENT The Russian media is boasting hard because another world star has appreciated the country's terrorism. The photos appeared on propaganda channels. According to the Russians, the Frenchman came at the invitation of a local magazine. He took part in a social event and walked around scandalous nightclubs. While Noe was having fun with the Russians, Ukraine was under fire once again. "Despite global sanctions, celebrities keep coming to Russia. As we hardly cooled down after Kanye West's arrival, a much bigger figure visited Moscow - Gaspar Noe", "We continue to change the country's cultural field and show the country's openness to the world," Russians rejoice at the arrival of the controversial director. ADVERTISIMENT Gaspar Noe has made less than 10 feature films, but he has become famous for his unconventional approach to the plot and scenes of sex and violence that are too explicit for many. For example, his erotic 3D drama Love received controversial reviews, and viewers walked out of theaters during the screening of Irreversible. The last movie Noe directed was Vortex in 2021. Since then, his career has been put on hold, and the director himself has almost disappeared from social media. There is no information about the war in Ukraine in his profile. ADVERTISIMENT Arthouse Traffic, a Ukrainian film distributor and film company, responded to Noe's visit to Moscow. They emphasized that such films as Love and Climax no longer exist for them. The United 24 platform also did not ignore the Frenchman's visit to Russia. It is noteworthy that some Ukrainians were not surprised by the star's position, while others were openly upset. "It is absolutely logical that the director of such films decided to go to a terrorist country. I'm not saying that the films are bad, but the level of violence in them corresponds to his desire to visit one big swamp. It is very natural in this case", "What a disgrace! I thought he was the best director of our time", "I never liked him. He is outrageous for the sake of outrageousness," they wrote online. ADVERTISIMENT Interestingly, in 2015, Gaspard came to Kyiv to present his film Love. What is even more ironic is that Russia and Belarus banned it. Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Under seige, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina flew out of Dhaka on Monday, seeking safety in India. Five decades ago, when she had taken political asylum in India along with her husband, two children and her sister after her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was assassinated, she had found a family and a home away from home in Pranab Mukherjee and his household. In 1975, when Mujib and his family members were killed in Dhaka, his daughters Hasina and Sheikh Rehana were the only two who survived the massacre as they were in Europe at that time. Hasina, her husband M.A. Wazed Miah and her two children, and Rehana took political asylum in India. The responsibility of looking after Hasina and her family was given by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to Pranab. Sharmistha Mukherjee, Pranab's daughter, writes in her book 'Pranab, My Father' about the close familial bond which then developed between Hasina and the Mukherjees. Hasina, she writes, became very close to Pranab and his wife Suvra. They soon became a part of our family and would be there for all family occasions like birthdays, get-togethers and annual picnics, writes Mukherjee. Apart from a select few family friends, no one knew the true identity of Hasina and her kin. Suvra would introduce Hasina to strangers as her sister. Mukherjee has written that Hasina personally shared this memory with her while reminiscing about her time with Suvra when she called on her during her visit to India as Prime Minister of Bangladesh in September 2022. I used to wonder why she addressed my father as dada (elder brother) and my mother as didi (elder sister), and not boudithe appropriate form of address for an elder brothers wife. As she was supposed to be my mothers sister for strangers, this subterfuge was perhaps adopted to ward off any unwanted attention and suspicion. Even after so many years, she became emotional talking about Ma. After returning to Bangladesh at the end of her exile, she would send exquisite Dhakai Jamdani sarees for Ma and for all the female members of the family. Ma would always reciprocate, writes Mukherjee. During a visit to Dhaka in 2011 for a dance performance, Mukherjee had stayed with Hasina. During a conversation they had then, Hasina got emotional, and with moist eyes recalled that had it not been for the Mukherjees, especially Suvra, she would have gone mad given the tragedy that had befallen her family. Leave aside dada [my father], if didi wasnt there I would have gone mad. My entire family was killed. I was emotionally in ruins. I was in exile. Didi made us a part of your family. It was her love that sustained me during that difficult period of my life, Mukherjee quotes Hasina as having said to her. According to Mukherjee, the strong personal bond between Pranab and Hasina had a significant role to play in forging closer ties between India and Bangladesh. Pranab has in his memoirs written about the close connection with Hasina. He writes in The Presidential Years: 2012-2017 -- All my visits to Bangladesh (including the one after my presidency) during Sheikh Hasina's tenure were like a family reunion of sorts for me. When Suvra died in 2015, Hasina and Rehana came to India to attend the funeral. Mukherjee recollects in her book that Hasina could not control her tears. Five years later, when Pranab was in a critical condition and had slipped into a coma before his death, Hasina would call Mukherjee every day. When Pranab died, Bangladesh observed one day of state mourning. Hasina said she and her family had lost their 'guardian'. In East Asia, most strategic scholars tend to view India's foreign policy as balanced diplomacy. This is especially evident as the first country Prime Minister Modi visited and embraced during his third term was Russia, meeting with President Putin. Many interpret Modi's move as a setback to the US Indo-Pacific strategy. Indeed, the US Indo-Pacific strategy often seems more bark than bite, with action typically being taken only after the created problems have already swept in. It's rare to see the United States, a century-old maritime power, adopting someone else's strategic security concept. "Indo-Pacific" was originally a term proposed by the Indian Navy, but it only became part of America's national strategy after Shinzo Abe gave it a strategic framework. If the US Indo-Pacific strategy is meant to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative, it's unclear what benefits or shared interests it offers. While the US stresses freedom of navigation under international law, its allies are left to pick up the tab and react repeatedly. It matters to the US, but India has its own priorities. The Ukraine war has had varying impacts on the world over different periods. When PM Narendra Modi addressed the US Congress, he stated, "This is not an era of war. The war in Ukraine involves major powers and the consequences are severe." During India's G20 presidency, Modi emphasised India's readiness to contribute in any way to restore peace. This reality underscores India's delicate role in global conflicts. Ironically, while President Biden promotes the Indo-Pacific strategy and the Quad, it is Russialabelled as an "axis of evil"that has supplied India with fuel during the global energy crisis. This support has kept India's manufacturing sector running, sustaining the democratic supply chain. If Western countries are serious about their Indo-Pacific strategy and making India a key manufacturing hub, they must ensure a stable supply of energy, raw materials, capital, and technology, rather than fueling a prolonged war. Reflecting back to June 17, while Joe Biden was still campaigning for re-election, NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg visited Washington and issued a stern warning: "China should pay for propping up Russia's Ukraine war." He also urged NATO to supply more weapons to Ukraine and asserted that Ukraine's path to NATO membership is "irreversible." Recently, the first batch of F-16 jets manufactured by Lockheed Martin arrived in Ukraine, marking the delivery of the latest advanced weaponry to the conflict zone. As Biden announced he would not seek re-election, Kamala Harris stepped in as the presidential candidate, with little mention of the Ukraine war in her campaign. Meanwhile, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba visited China and indicated Kyiv's willingness to engage in talks with Russia if Moscow showed genuine intent, stating, "The main topic of discussion will be the search for ways to stop Russia's aggression and China's possible role in achieving a stable and just peace." If it is indeed time for peace to prevail, no one is inclined to credit the Chinese Communist Party for this breakthrough. However, the only viable mediator acceptable to Putin is India, given the unyielding stance of other European nations. This positions Modi as the most strategic candidate for the role, especially as India has consistently voted against or abstained from United Nations resolutions imposing sanctions on Russia. Modi's willingness to act as a mediator stems from several strategic considerations. With NATO's increasing involvement, an escalation of the Ukraine war could force India to take sides, a scenario it seeks to avoid despite its preference for neutrality. Achieving "semiconductor independence" is a crucial goal for India. If the conflict intensifies, India's alignment with the West could facilitate partnerships with the leading semiconductor powers, a prospect that Russia views with significant disfavour. Additionally, China would not tolerate Russia being encircled by NATO, as Russia's collapse would likely shift the focus of sanctions to China. With NATO's support, the Ukraine conflict is edging towards a scenario reminiscent of a potential Third World War, which contradicts India's ambition to become the world's third-largest economy within five years. Therefore, Modi needs to take proactive measures by first visiting Putin and then Kyiv to mediate and prevent further escalation, lest India become a passive actor in this unfolding crisis. From India's national interest perspective, mediating to de-escalate the Ukraine conflict is crucial for providing the stability needed for global investors to confidently establish semiconductor supply chains. Only through reducing tensions and halting NATO's expansion of the war can India develop its semiconductor infrastructure and become the world's third-largest economy. As long as the war's duration remains uncertain, investors will hesitate to commit to India's semiconductor ambitions. Despite China supplying Russia with dual-use technology and boosting bilateral trade to over $240 billion, Russia's grand Siberian development plan notably excludes India. Nonetheless, India's primary goal is to develop its semiconductor supply chain rather than engage in warfare; therefore, it has exercised restraint in the border tensions. In the broader context of Modi's diplomatic manoeuvres amidst the Ukraine war and the recent US election developments, a clear pattern emerges. Modi's strategic visit to Putin shortly after taking office, followed by Biden's announcement not to seek re-election and Harris stepping in as the candidate, allows the Democratic Party to distance itself from the Ukraine issue without much explanation. This sets the stage for Modi to visit Ukraine and take further mediation steps. From Russia's perspective, Putin understands that India needs the conflict to de-escalate to accelerate its semiconductor supply chain development and achieve its goal of becoming one of the top five semiconductor powers within five years. This also presents an ideal opportunity for Taiwan to transfer its semiconductor supply chain to India. Despite China's disapproval, Russia would support India in this endeavour. This narrative resembles a reciprocal arrangement: India helps Russia mediate in the Ukraine conflict, while Russia supports India by using the Siberian development plan to placate China, facilitating India's advancement in high-tech development. Implicit in this strategy is the notion that, if Modi is given the time to achieve these economic goals, India might eventually align more closely with shared interests. As Putin might subtly reassure Xi, "Let's give Modi the time he needs; once India reaches its economic goals, its alignment with our interests will naturally follow." Prof. Lin, Hsiao-Chen is an Assistant Professor, Graduate Institute of International Affairs and Strategic Studies (GIIASS) at Tamkang University & Member of Taiwans 2024 Ministry of National Defense QDR Advisory Committee The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK Uddhav Thackeray and his family's trip to Delhi is a yatra to surrender himself and his Shiv Sena before the Congress high command, said Sanjay Nirupam, a former MP and senior leader of Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena on Tuesday. Addressing media at the party office in Mumbai, Nirupam said that Uddhav has big hopes of becoming the CM again but the reality is that they wont come to power. In order to make himself an acceptable face for the INDIA alliance parties, Uddhav will kneel down before the Congress high command, he said. Nirupam noted that there was a time when all big leaders from across the parties used to knock on the doors of Matoshree in order to meet Shiv Sena founder late Balasaheb Thackeray. But now Uddhav has to make a trip to Delhi, he said. "His party calls it a political Samvad Yatra, but in reality this is a political surrender yatra," mocked Nirupam who was an MP from the Shiv Sena earlier. In fact, Nirupam began his political career from Shiv Sena as he was the editor of the Hindi edition of the Saamna, the Shiv Sena mouthpiece, and was very close to Uddhav before he jumped ship to join the Congress. Nirupam further claimed that there are at least a dozen leaders within the Maha Vikas Aghadi who are dreaming of becoming the CM. "There is Uddhav Thackeray, then there is Aditya Thackeray's mother who wants Aditya to become CM. From Congress, state president Nana Patole and senior leader Balasaheb Thorat want to be CM. I also heard that Sharad Pawar has told Anil Deshmukh that if (his daughter) Supriya Sule doesn't become CM, he will make Deshmukh the CM. Hence Uddhav Thackeray has gone to Delhi to make himself acceptable to all the INDIA alliance parties," Nirupam said. He also claimed that when Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has cancelled his Delhi trip to visit the flood affected parts of Maharashtra, Uddhav and his Sena are more worried about the chief minister chair. Despite Bangladesh burning, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina tried to cling to power until she was told by her security officers that it would no longer be possible to control the protesters. On Monday, as protests rocked Bangladesh, Hasina was in Ganabhaban, the Prime Minister's residence, contemplating her next move. That's when the police informed her that the students had begun their march to Ganabhabhan from Shahbagh and Uttara, according to Protom Alo. At one point, Sheikh Hasina said the police were doing well. However, the top officials informed her that they could not control the protesters using force for long. However, Hasina was reluctant to accept her fate. The officials then spoke to her sister Sheikh Rehana in a separate room, asking her to convince the Prime Minister. Though Rehana spoke to Hasina, the latter was determined to hold on to power and stay in Dhaka. The security officials then called Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, who is in the UK. Joy spoke to his mother over the phone and convinced her to leave. It was then that Hasina finally agreed to resign. But, she insisted on recording a speech addressed to the nation. But, the protesters had, by then, begun their march to Ganabhaban. Hasina just had 45 minutes to leave the country. Across multiple locations in Bangladesh, people were seen demolishing statues of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The @albd1971 , has long been centered around a cult of personality focused on Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Revered as the nation's pic.twitter.com/xvLz8ZQcZM Sami (@ZulkarnainSaer) August 6, 2024 Soon after, Hasina and Rehana left for the helipad of the old airport in Tejgaon. They just carried some luggage. The duo then went to Bangabhaban so that Hasina could formalise her resignation. She left around 2:30 pm by military helicopter for India. After entering Indian airspace, the helicopter circled for some time before it landed at a BSF helipad in Agartala. From there, the flight went to Delhi. The Bangladesh Air Force transport plane C-130J that carried her to Ghaziabad's Hindon air base has since left for Dhaka without her. Though Hasina is yet to confirm her future course of action, reports claim she is expected to fly to London where she may seek political asylum. She was reportedly in touch with the authorities in the United Kingdom regarding asylum. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said Hasina is in a state of shock and the government is giving her time to recover before it speaks to her over various issues, including her future plans. Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has dissolved the Parliament after consulting with various political parties, defence forces, civil society leaders and the heads of Students Against Discrimination, a source told THE WEEK on Tuesday. This comes after Students Against Discrimination gave an ultimatum to take a tougher stance if the Parliament is not dissolved by 3pm on Tuesday, added the source. Earlier in the day, the student leaders said they want Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus as the as the chief adviser to the interim government. Nahid Islam, one of the student leaders, said in a video, "We wouldn't accept any army-supported or army-led government. We have also had discussions with Muhammad Yunus and he has agreed to take on this responsibility at our invitation." On Monday, President Shahabuddin had ordered the immediate release of Bangladesh's first female Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who is the chief of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). It should be noted that Khaleda replaced the presidential system with a parliamentary form of government so that power rested with the prime minister. The President said the interim government will hold elections as soon as possible after consulting all parties and stakeholders. Following violence that ousted Hasina a day before, Dhaka was reportedly calm on Tuesday morning. Business have opened their shops while traffic returned to normal after crufew was lifted. At least 109 people were killed in clashes in different parts of the country. Expelled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen, reacting to the crisis unfolding in Bangladesh, pointed out that Sheikh Hasina is responsible for the predicament she is in. Taslima Nasreen was exiled from Bangladesh in the 1990s following protests over her book 'Lajja'. A spate of protests over job quota in Bangladesh forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to quit the post and flee. The protests have resulted in the deaths of nearly 400 people. Taslima Nasreen finds the problems faced by Hasina ironic as she pointed out that it was the prime minister who allowed Islamists to grow in the country. "Hasina had to resign and leave the country. She was responsible for her situation. She made Islamists to grow. She allowed her people to involve in corruption," she wrote in a X post. The writer said she does not want Bangladesh to become like Pakistan and added that the army should not rule the country. "Political parties should bring democracy & secularism," she added. She claimed that Hasina threw her out of the country to please Islamists. "Hasina in order to please Islamists threw me out of my country in 1999 after I entered Bangladesh to see my mother in her deathbed and never allowed me to enter the country again. The same Islamists have been in the student movement who forced Hasina to leave the country today." A few days ago, Nasreen had compared Hasina to Frankenstein, saying she created "monsters" by "allowing Islamic preachers to brainwash young people." Hasina is like Frankenstein. She created monsters by sponsoring a huge number of mosques & madrasas, allowing misogynist Islamic preachers to brainwash young people & making Islamic school degrees equivalent to secular university degrees. Now those monsters want her to go. taslima nasreen (@taslimanasreen) August 3, 2024 Taslima Nasreen has been living in exile since 1994 after she faced backlash from fundamentalists over her writings on the issues of communalism and women's equality in Bangladesh. Her books, 'Lajja' and 'Amar Meyebela' were banned in Bangladesh. Bangladesh student leaders have proposed that the interim government have Nobel Laureate Dr Mohammad Yunus as its chief advisor. The protest coordinators, in a video released early on Tuesday, said Yunus has agreed to the suggestion, considering the present situation of the country. The suggestion comes as Bangladesh army chief plans to meet the protest coordinators at 12 pm local time on Tuesday, the army said in a statement. Nahid Islam, one of the key coordinators of the movement, said in the video: "We have decided that the interim government would be formed in which internationally renowned Nobel Laureate Dr Mohammad Yunus, who has wide acceptability, would be the chief adviser," Nahid announced. "We want to see the process rolling by the morning. We urge the president to take steps as soon as possible to form an interim government headed by Dr Yunus," Nahid added. Dr Mohammad Yunus | X "Any government other than the one we recommended would not be accepted," Nahid added. "We wouldn't accept any army-supported or army-led government." The student leader added that they would announce the names of the remaining members of the interim government by morning. Bangladesh today has showed the world how to deal with a fascist and dictatorship.#SheikhHasina #BangladeshViolence pic.twitter.com/gzs33rt2Vc Dhruv Rathee (Parody) (@dhruvrahtee) August 5, 2024 Yunus, 84, and his Grameen Bank won the 2006 Nobel Peace prize for work to lift millions out of poverty by granting tiny loans of under $100 to the rural poor of Bangladesh. Meanwhile, Bangladeshi President Mohammed Shahabuddin has ordered the release of jailed former prime minister and key opposition leader Khaleda Zia. The 78-year-old former Prime Minister of Bangladesh is reportedly in poor health and confined to a hospital after she was sentenced to 17 years in prison for graft in 2018. Shahabuddin added that a decision has been taken to form an interim government as soon as possible by dissolving parliament. "The army will also take measures to normalise the prevailing anarchic situation," the president said. He has also ordered the release of all students arrested during the ongoing protests. Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman on Monday held a meeting with several political party leaders and civil society members at the Army Headquarters. After the meeting, he announced the formation of an interim government. The Army chief has also said that justice would be ensured for all killings. "Keep trust in the army," he said, calling on everyone to shun the path of violence and return home. "I'm taking all responsibility (of the country). Please cooperate," Zaman added. The Bangladesh students movement has formed committees to protect temples and households of minorities in the country following reports of protesters attacking such religious places. India had expressed concern about the security of minorities in the country. The move comes amidst reports of several temples being defaced by protesters. The ISKCON said its temple at Meherpur in Khulna division was attacked and set on fire by protesters. Yudhistir Govinda Das, country director of ISKCON communications said in a post on X, As per the info I have received, one of our ISKCON center (rented) in Meherpur (Khulna division) was burnt including with the deities of Lord Jagannath, Baladev and Subhadra Devi. 3 devotees who lived in the center somehow managed to escape & survived.Besides temples, the Indian cultural centre in Dhaka was also attacked by violent mob. Violence has escalated following former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas ouster and her escape to Delhi. Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved the Parliament on Tuesday following an ultimatum from protesters. Meanwhile, the Army has released helpline numbers for minorities. Indias External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed concern over the situation during his statement in the Parliament on Tuesday. Jaishankar said, There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being. Naturally, we will remain deeply concerned till law and order is restored. Two people who were secretly imprisoned in a place inside Dhaka cantonment have been rescued on Tuesday, a source told THE WEEK. One of imprisoned individual was identified as Mir Arman Ahmed, who was abducted around eight years ago. He had been imprisoned for more than eight years without any trial, the source said. Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, former home minister and other law enforcement officials are likely to be booked under Crime Against Humanity charges, according to the source. Abducting people for an indefinite period comes under Crime Against Humanity, as per the country's law. The secret prison called Ayna Ghar or Mirror House is inside the Dhaka cantonment. The question of the current Army Chiefs complicity could also come into question, according to the source. This comes a day after President Shahabuddin had ordered the immediate release of Bangladesh's first female Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who is the chief of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Zunaid Ahmed Palak, Minister for IT in the recently ousted Awami League government in Bangladesh was detained at Dhaka Airport while trying to flee on Tuesday. Reportedly, he was stopped by airport staffers. Palak was detained at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Tuesday while trying to flee to Delhi, Dhaka Tribune reported. Palak was reportedly trying to escape to Delhi and airport staff and workers detained him. Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved the Parliament on Tuesday following an ultimatum from student protesters. After former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina escaped to Delhi on Monday, several ministers and Awami League leaders have been trying to flee from Bangladesh to escape the wrath of protesters. Palak is currently under the custody of the Air Force, local reports said. The former minister was infamous for disrupting internet connectivity during protests against the regime. A week ago, Palak met with representatives of TikTok, Meta and Google and directed them to remove "misleading" posts about the protest. Famous American actor Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson were robbed. According to the available information, thieves broke into their home in Los Angeles and broke a window to gain access to a guest house on the territory and take valuables. ADVERTISIMENT According to TMZ, the incident occurred "a few weeks ago," and the intruders were unable to get into the main house. It is not yet known what exactly was stolen. Police are investigating the theft, but no one has been arrested yet. This disturbing news comes almost a year after the house of the couple's 34-year-old son was bulgarized too. Back then, the thief attacked law enforcement officers who arrived at the scene, but the homeowner was not injured. A recent incident occurred in broad daylight when the stars were out of town. The alarm system triggered by the broken glass was not enough to prevent the thieves from entering. Sources claim that Tom and Rita were not the target. Instead, insiders say, it looks like the work of one of the many gangs in the area. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Amid riots in the United Kingdom, India on Tuesday issued an advisory, urging its citizens visiting the country to be cautious and follow the the advice of security agencies. The Indian High Commission in London is closely monitoring the situation. "Visitors from India are advised to stay vigilant and exercise due caution while travelling in the UK," the High Commission said in a post on X. This comes as the fatal stabbing of three young girls in the northwest English town of Southport last week resulted in anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim groups unleashing a wave of violence in English towns and cities. Foreign states' role The UK government said it was examining whether or not foreign states played any role in the disinformation campaign which saw anti-muslim and anti-immigration protesters unleash riots. The trigger for the riots happened last week after three girls were murdered at a Taylor Swift-themed event in Southport, a seaside town in northern England. However, fake messages went viral stating that the suspected killer was an Islamist migrant. Indian travellers would be aware of recent disturbances in some parts of the United Kingdom. The High Commission of India in London is closely monitoring the situation. Visitors from India are advised to stay vigilant and exercise due caution while travelling in the UK. It is pic.twitter.com/0t1f35qU3G ANI (@ANI) August 6, 2024 The authorities said it was looking to see how much impact foreign states had had in promoting the false messages. "We have seen bot activity online, much of which may well be amplified or have the involvement of state actors, amplifying some of the disinformation and misinformation that we've seen," a spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer told reporters. "And that is something that the NCA [National Crime Agency] and DSIT [Department for Science, Innovation and Technology] are looking at, about what weve seen online." Its not the first time Britain has probed state interference in its domestic affairs. The UK believes Russian state media outlets RT and Sputnik pushed false narratives about the 2018 poisoning of former Russian intelligence officer Sergei Skripal on British soil. John Woodcock, the governments adviser on political violence, has also hinted that "troll factories" in countries including Russia and Iran can play a part in stoking disorder. "I made a key recommendation in my review to give the intelligence services more power, more capability, to crack down on the way that hostile states are seizing on every incident to create misinformation and to fan the flames of British extreme actors," he said. Democrats presidential nominee and Vice President Kamala Harris named Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate ahead of the US presidential election on Tuesday. According to sources, it was a tough choice as Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was also on the final list of the VP candidates. However it was most likely that she would pick a white guy to balance the ticket. A former educator, Walz is currently in his second term as Minnesota governor. He chairs the Democratic Governors Association. Harris and Walz will be battling head-on against former US President Donald Trump and his running mate J.D. Vance. Reportedly, Harris grew increasingly comfortable with Walz towards the final days of the selection process. He has delivered a handful of memorable haymakers against Republicans. Recently, Waltz had referred to both Trump and Vance as "weird dudes", which became viral in social media with many Democrats activists taking it up. Who is Tim Walz? Walz, 60, is an Army National Guard veteran and former teacher. He was elected from a Republican-leaning district to the US House of Representatives in 2006 and served 12 years before being elected governor of Minnesota in 2018. As governor Walz has pushed a progressive agenda that includes free school meals, goals for tackling climate change, tax cuts for the middle class and expanded paid leave for Minnesota workers. He has long advocated for women's reproductive rights. Considering the importance of the swing states, Harris choosing a popular Midwestern politician seems to be favouring crucial battlegrounds-- Wisconsin and Michigan. Walz is widely seen as skilled at connecting with white and rural voters. However, Harris choosing Walz over Shapiro is viewed as a relief for Republicans. Shapiro is a popular figure and has a track record of winning big in Pennsylvania, a crucial state for Democrats. It is also said that Walz, being a popular member of Congress, had the backing of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. After President Joe Biden's exit, Harris, 59, has revived the Democratic Party's hopes of winning the November election. Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate who is known as the "banker to the poorest of the poor" as he founded Grameen Bank, has formally agreed to head the interim government in Bangladesh. Lamiya Murshed, executive director of the Yunus Centre, told British journalist David Bergman that she spoke to the Nobel laureate recently and he confirmed that he would head the interim government following the request by student leaders. According to Murshed, Yunus told students that he did not want to do this as this is not something that he is trained to do, but he agreed to their request. Yunus, who is currently in Paris, will be flying back to Bangladesh soon. Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman and Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin are okay with Muhammad Yunus heading the interim government. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was forced to flee Bangladesh after weeks of deadly protests led to the death of over 400 people. The country's army has temporarily taken control of Bangladesh. Who is Muhammad Yunus The protesters have been demanding that Yunus, who was once called a "bloodsucker" by Hasina, should head the interim government. Yunus (83) a well-known critic of Hasina had described her resignation as the country's second liberation day. Yunus was born in 1940 in Chittagong, a seaport city in Bangladesh. He received his PhD from Vanderbilt University in the United States and taught there briefly before returning to Bangladesh. An economist and banker by profession, Yunus founded Grameen Bank in 1983 to offer small loans to entrepreneurs who would not normally qualify to receive them. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for pioneering the use of microcredit to help impoverished people, particularly women. The Nobel Peace Prize committee credited Yunus and his Grameen Bank for their efforts to create economic and social development from below. He had earlier announced he would form a political party in 2007 when the country was run by a military-backed government. However, he did not follow through on the plan. Yunus ran into trouble with Hasina in 2008 when her administration launched a series of investigations into him. Hasina accused Yunus of using force and other means to recover loans from poor rural women as the head of Grameen Bankallegations that he vehemently denied. Bangladesh government began reviewing Grameen Bank's activities in 2011, and Yunus was sacked as managing director for allegedly violating government retirement regulations. He was put on trial in 2013 on charges of receiving money without government permission, including his Nobel Prize and royalties from a book. Yunus later faced more charges involving other companies he created, including Grameen Telecom, which is part of the country's largest mobile phone company, GrameenPhone. In 2023, a few former Grameen Telecom workers filed a case against Yunus accusing him of siphoning off their job benefits. He denied the accusations. Earlier this year, a special judge's court in Bangladesh indicted Yunus and 13 others on charges over a $2 million embezzlement case. Yunus pleaded not guilty and is out on bail for now. With agency inputs Amid uncertainties regarding Sheikh Hasina's travel to the United Kingdom 'seeking asylum', the British government has called for a United Nations-led investigation into the recent violent incidents in Bangladesh. The violent protests that erupted in the country, over the controversial quota system in government jobs, forced Prime Minister Hasina to resign and flee to India. Reportedly, Hasina plans to travel to London as her sister and niece stay there. So far, the government has made no official statement regarding reports of Hasina seeking asylum in the UK. However, sources reportedly said that the country's immigration rules don't specifically allow individuals to travel to the UK to seek asylum. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: 2 Bangladeshis jailed in secret Dhaka cantonment prison without trial rescued UK foreign secretary David Lammy in a statement said, "The last two weeks in Bangladesh have seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life." Soon after Hasina fled the country, the Army chief announced the formation of an interim government after meeting with the President. The UK wants to see action taken to ensure Bangladesh a peaceful and democratic future. The UK and Bangladesh have deep people-to-people links and shared Commonwealth values, Lammy added. The UK has a proud record of providing protection for people who need it, there is no provision within the Immigration Rules for someone to be allowed to travel to the UK to seek asylum or temporary refuge. As per the asylum procedures, those who need international protection should claim asylum in the first safe country they reach as the fastest route to safety. ALSO READ | Whats next for Bangladesh as Sheikh Hasinas 15-year reign comes to an end It is said that since Hasina's niece, Tulip Siddiq, the daughter of UK passport holder Sheikh Rehana, is based in north London, UK is her likely choice. Siddiq is a Labour Party member of Parliament from Hampstead. Earlier, the UK had offered Hasina's late father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, refuge on his release from a Pakistani jail in 1972 following the freedom struggle. However, the present situation has placed the UK in a dilemma. It would be difficult for the UK to ignore her request considering Hasinas relationship with the country. According to experts, if the UN-led investigations take place it will likely hold Hasina accountable to some degree and would look bad for the UK government if she is in the UK at that time. Rahul Roy-Chaudhury, Senior Fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in London, told PTI that a possible solution would be to give Hasina leave to enter the UK where she could live in self-exile. However, it is challenging as her niece is a Labour Party member, he added. Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's plan to seek refuge in London has been put on hold due to the UK's hesitation to provide legal protection. Hasina, who resigned on Monday amidst widespread protests, arrived in India and is currently in Delhi under tight security. The UK's decision is based on its immigration rules, which do not allow for asylum claims from outside the country. Hasina had planned to travel to London, where her sister Sheikh Rehana's daughter, Tulip Siddiq, is a Labour Party member of the British Parliament. However, the UK government indicated that she may not receive legal protection against potential probes into the violent protests in Bangladesh. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: 2 Bangladeshis jailed in secret Dhaka cantonment prison without trial rescued The UK government had called for a UN-led investigation into the violent protests that erupted in Bangladesh, which led to Hasinas resignation. Hasina is now exploring alternative destinations, including the UAE, Belarus, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Finland, where she has family ties. External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Tuesday confirmed Hasina's arrival and stated that she had requested permission to enter India at short notice. The situation remains dynamic, with no clear indication of Hasina's next steps. Her resignation followed massive protests in Bangladesh, which began as an agitation against a job quota system but evolved into a mass movement demanding her ouster. Hasina's 15-year rule was marked by controversy, including a disputed parliamentary election in January that was boycotted by opposition parties. As Hasina decides on her next move, the international community watches closely. The UK's stance has significant implications for her future, and the potential for asylum claims in other countries remains uncertain. China 'closely' following the developments Amid tensions in Bangladesh, the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday said that it is "closely" following the developments. "As a friendly neighbour and comprehensive strategic cooperative partner of Bangladesh, China sincerely hopes that social stability will be restored soon in the country," the ministry said. Hasina visited Beijing In July for bilateral discussions. During their meeting, Xi said the two countries have elevated their ties to a "comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, which in Chinese diplomatic jargon represents an elevated recognition and importance Beijing attaches to its interests and its closeness with that particular country." The US has reportedly revoked the visa of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, said television channels CNN News18 and Pakistan-based Geo News. In recent years, the relationship between the Sheikh Hasina administration and the United States has been fraught with tension. The US has repeatedly expressed concerns about the state of democracy in Bangladesh, especially after Hasinas Awami League party won a straight fourth term in January 2024. These concerns triggered the imposition of visa restrictions on Bangladeshi politicians and officials, including members of law enforcement, the ruling party, and others who were believed to be complicit in undermining the democratic election process. US State Department had refused to name people citing privacy issues. In May 2023, Secretary of State Antony Blinken's warned that the possible visa restrictions were a sign that the US would not tolerate elements that jeopardised free and fair elections in Bangladesh. However, Bangladeshi Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen had dismissed the US sanctions, stating that Bangladesh could conduct its elections without external interference. Notably, after returning to power in January, Hasina alleged that a "white country" was conspiring against her. She claimed that she was promised a hassle-free re-election if she allowed a foreign country to build an air base in Bangladesh. This allegation deepened the mistrust between Dhaka and Washington. After Hasina stepped down yesterday and fled Dhaka, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller reiterated that the US wanted Bangladeshis to decide their government's future, in keeping with democratic principles and the rule of law. In a note to Americans in Bangladesh, the US embassy in Dhaka said: Due to the unpredictable and volatile nature of the current situation, and the potential for increased violence, US citizens should shelter in a safe place, and strongly consider returning to the United States when safe to do so. Further violence connected to the government transition is possible. Gatherings and additional protests are unpredictable and may materialize quickly. Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news for updates. US Embassy Dhaka is open for limited operations only, and all routine consular services have been cancelled from August 5-7. U.S. mission personnel are currently sheltering in place. Patna, Aug 6 (PTI) Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's cabinet on Tuesday approved the Bihar Purchase Preference Policy 2024 to boost local industrial units and give priority to procurement from micro, small, and startup enterprises in the state. The decision was taken to maximise employment opportunities for the local people, Additional Chief Secretary (Cabinet Secretariat) S Siddharth said after the meeting. "The cabinet, in its meeting, approved the Bihar Purchase Preference Policy 2024 to facilitate growth of local industrial units/ enterprises in the procurements undertaken by the entities with a special focus on Bihar micro and small enterprises and startups. The proposal was mooted by the finance department of the state government," Siddharth said. The policy is meant for the enhancement of competitiveness among local industrial units/enterprises, he said. As part of the eligibility criteria, a unit should be registered in Bihar and should have an office in the state, Siddharth explained, adding that it should be operational in the state for a minimum period of one year. The entity should have filed a GST return and paid it for at least one year, he added. The cabinet also approved a proposal of the state health department to provide Rs 15 lakh assistance to children below the age group of 12 from any income group, suffering from a Beta Thalassemia Major, a group of inherited blood disorders, he said The treatment of such patients will be provided by the Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, Siddharth said. The cabinet also announced a reward for whistleblowers among people and government officials who provide information on illegal mining in the state. "The cabinet gave its nod to such a proposal. If it is found that illegally mined minerals are transported through tractors and the accused are arrested, then a reward of Rs 5,000 would be given to the whistleblower concerned. The reward will be Rs 10,000 in case the used vehicle is a truck," he said. The cabinet also green-lighted 'Chief Minister Home Stay Bed and Breakfast Promotion Scheme-2024' to provide better facilities to tourists at affordable prices. Those interested will have to get their premises registered with the tourism department, Siddarth said. New Delhi (India), August 6: In the bustling world of digital media and public relations, Vision Media Private Limited stands as a beacon of innovation and reliability. Recognized for its exemplary service and unwavering commitment to excellence, this leading digital marketing & media company has carved a niche for itself by delivering stellar results across various domains of digital marketing and PR. Vision Media is a division of the Vyankatesh and Vaikuntha Group which has been serving in the field of education and real estate from the last 25 years & celebrates its silver jubilee this year. Established with a vision to redefine the landscape of digital communication, Vision Media has not only met but exceeded the expectations of its esteemed clientele, comprising some of the most reputed names in the industry. Specializing in providing comprehensive solutions in Digital Marketing, Graphic Designing, Web & Video Services, the agency has become synonymous with creativity, reliability and strategic prowess, says the Director Adityaraj Sharma. A Legacy of Achievement Crafting excellence Over the years, Vision Media has garnered accolades that underscore its industry leadership and proficiency. The agency has been conferred with eminent awards several times such as the Excellence Iconic Awards and the Mimansa Awards, testament to its outstanding contributions in the field. These accolades not only celebrate the agencys success but also affirm its position as a trendsetter and trailblazer in the realm of digital media and PR. In our interview with Adityaraj Sharma the director of the company we were shown various campaigns run by the company which have collectively received millions of eyeballs in total. Education: A Specialized Focus One of Vision Medias standout achievements lies in its specialized focus on the education sector, says Adityaraj. We have served in the education sector for the last 25 years. In fact this happens to be our 25th year. This provides us with a deep understanding of the nuances and dynamics unique to this field, the agency has been entrusted by top brands in education to craft compelling narratives and impactful campaigns. From prestigious universities to renowned educational institutions, Vision Media has played a pivotal role in shaping their digital presence and enhancing their brand visibility. It is a matter of reliability that an educationist trusts fellow educationist, chuckles Adityaraj. Secret Sauce Unique & Comprehensive Service Offerings At the heart of Vision Medias success lies its comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients. Whether its devising innovative digital marketing strategies, creating captivating graphic designs, developing dynamic websites or producing engaging videos, the agency approaches each project with a blend of unique and personalized plan for any institution or company. This holistic approach not only ensures client satisfaction but also drives tangible results that resonate and shine in todays competitive market. Vision for the Future On the question of future goals, Adityaraj added, looking ahead, Vision Media remains committed to pushing the boundaries of digital innovation and design excellence. With a focus on harnessing emerging technologies and staying ahead of industry trends, the agency continues to evolve its offerings to meet the evolving needs of its clients. By fostering creativity, nurturing talent, and embracing change, Vision Media as its name suggests will keep on carving the vision of its clients to reality he adds. It is notable that the agency has been talk of the town for its recent features in Hindustan Times, The week, Outlook, Major national dailies in Hindi & English and so will be a company to watch out for. For more information about Vision Media Private Limited and its services, visit www.visionmediahouse.com or contact them at [contact@visionmediahouse.com] (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR PWR Travellers can avail 15% off on flight and hotel bookings from 5th to 12th August 2024 Offers are valid on OneCard (credit card), SBI (credit card), ICICI Bank (credit card), AU Small Finance Bank (credit card), and Kotak Mahindra Bank (credit & debit card) New Delhi, 6th August 2024: ixigo, India's leading OTA for the Next Billion Users, is thrilled to announce its Travel with Freedom Sale in celebration of the long weekend for Independence Day and Raksha Bandhan. From August 5th to August 12th, 2024, travellers can enjoy a flat 15% discount on flight and hotel bookings, making their holiday plans more affordable and enjoyable. During the sale, customers can avail exclusive discounts using specific bank cards and coupon codes on designated days. OneCard credit cardholders can use the coupon code 'IXONE' on August 5th, SBI credit cardholders can use 'IXSBI' on August 6th, ICICI Bank credit cardholders can use 'IXICICI' on August 7th and 8th, AU Small Finance Bank credit cardholders can use 'IXAU' on August 9th and 10th, and Kotak Mahindra Bank debit and credit cardholders can use 'IXKOTAK' on August 11th and 12th. The offer provides a flat 15% discount up to 1500 with a minimum booking value of 5,000, applicable on both domestic and international bookings. Aloke Bajpai, Group CEO & Rajnish Kumar, Group Co-CEO, ixigo, said, "We are all eagerly preparing for our next getaway during the upcoming long weekend in August, taking advantage of the back-to-back holidays for Independence Day and Raksha Bandhan. Our 'Travel with Freedom Sale' presents a fantastic opportunity for travelers to enjoy a break without straining their budgets. With many popular domestic and international destinations experiencing a surge in interest, this sale is the perfect chance to explore and save on your next adventure." About ixigo (NSE: IXIGO, BSE: 544192) Launched in 2007 by Aloke Bajpai & Rajnish Kumar, ixigo (Le Travenues Technology Limited) is a technology company focused on empowering Indian travellers to plan, book and manage their trips across rail, air, buses and hotels. ixigo assists travellers in making smarter travel decisions by leveraging artificial intelligence. The ixigo, ConfirmTkt and AbhiBus apps allow travellers to book train tickets, flight tickets, bus tickets, hotels, and cabs, and provide travel utility tools and services developed using in-house proprietary algorithms and crowd-sourced information. With over 48 crore Annual Active Users in Fiscal 2024, ixigo is the leading OTA for Next Billion Users in India. For more information, please visit http://www.ixigo.com (Disclaimer: The above content is a press release and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR PWR New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) Global airlines' grouping IATA on Tuesday raised concerns over show cause notices issued to some foreign airlines operating to India with respect to Goods and Services Tax (GST), saying the issue can dampen and risk the country's strong aviation potential. Urging the government to resolve the matter, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said it is disappointed that the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) has proceeded to issue show cause notices to some foreign airlines operating to India despite a number of representations made by the industry on this matter. IATA represents more than 330 airlines, including Indian carriers, and its members account for more than 80 per cent of the global air traffic. "DGGI's assertion that GST should apply to expenses incurred by the headquarters of foreign airlines (with a branch office in India) in the course of providing air transport services is flawed. It does not take into consideration the nature and conventions involved in the provision of international air transport," Xie Xingquan, IATA's Regional Vice President for North Asia and Asia Pacific (ad interim), said in a statement. He also said India is alone in its approach and that nowhere else around the world is this practised. "Indian carriers operating to destinations outside India do not face similar situations or demand," he added. As many as 10 foreign airlines are under the scanner of DGGI and the carriers received notices since October 2023. IATA had also submitted a detailed representation to the Indian government on the matter. "The international nature of air transport necessitates a clear and consistent policy framework globally. IATA continues to work closely with the government of India on this subject. IATA has also urged the government to urgently help resolve this matter, which can dampen and risk India's strong aviation potential," Xie Xingquan said. At a briefing in Dubai in June, IATA Country Director for India Amitabh Khosla had said that for now, 10 foreign airlines have been picked up for investigation and the move was "unprecedented". The statement from IATA also comes at a time when concerns have been expressed over GST demand received by IT major Infosys. On August 1, apex IT body Nasscom said the latest tax demand reflects a lack of understanding of the industry's operating model and sheds light on sector-wide issues wherein multiple companies are facing avoidable litigation and uncertainty. Toward the end of the holiday season, Russian tourists began to complain about the condition of beaches and cities. They emphasize rivers of alcohol, a large number of drunk people, high prices, rotavirus, aggressive behavior and threats to children. ADVERTISIMENT According to the Russian media, those who are still more or less sober are complaining about the so-called drunks who have come from all over the Russian Federation. It's no secret that, in their best traditions, Russian tourists love to spoil the vacation of others. One need only recall the standard behavior of Russian citizens at foreign resorts and the massive complaints of local residents about them. "It seems that drunks from all over the country have come to Adler [Sochi] this summer! There are drunken companies everywhere, sometimes from the very morning. And in the evening, you can't even leave your room at all - there's matting everywhere, songs are shouted in drunken voices, in cafes, on the streets, and in parks. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a pious person, and I'm quite capable of drinking myself, but when people around me get drunk to the point of animalistic behavior, I can't like it," Larisa from St. Petersburg complained to the Russian media. ADVERTISIMENT Moreover, they cannot make comments to their fellow citizens for fear of "getting hit in the face in return." A couple vacationing in Gelendzhik on the Black Sea complained that people had become much more aggressive. "I would never have thought that this could happen in Anapa. Yes, it's always been dirty, crowded, noisy, but to hear drunken swearing on every corner is something I've never seen before. Families with children still come here, but that doesn't stop parents from getting drunk and starting to harass not only their children, but other people's children as well. Once my six-year-old son was playing with a bouncy ball on the beach and accidentally hit a woman sunbathing on a towel nearby. What profanity she used to cover him with! I could not stand it, I said - you cannot say such words to children! Then her husband intervened and shouted that children like mine should have their heads cut off for bad behavior," said Marina from Moscow. ADVERTISIMENT Earlier, OBOZ.UA wrote that Russians managed to complain about the terrible vacation in the occupied Crimea. Garbage, explosions, high prices and muddy sea water - all this awaits those who decide to bask in the sun on the shores of the Azov and Black Seas. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) Public sector banks have reported over three-fold jump in compensation towards frauds or e-frauds reported by their customers to Rs 140 crore during 2023-24, Parliament was informed on Tuesday. The amount of compensation paid by these banks stood at Rs 42.70 crore in the previous fiscal, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha. Union Bank of India paid the highest compensation of Rs 74.96 crore followed by Bank of India at Rs 20.38 crore and Indian Bank at Rs 16.16 crore during FY24, she said. In FY23, Union Bank of India was again the highest compensation payer at Rs 12.18 crore followed by Central Bank of India at Rs 11.68 crore. Sitharaman further said that RBI, in July 2017, issued instructions on limiting the liability of customers in cases of unauthorised electronic banking transactions. As per these instructions, a customer has zero liability if the unauthorised transaction occurs on account of contributory fraud or negligence/deficiency on part of the bank, she said. In cases where the deficiency lies neither with the bank nor with the customer but elsewhere in the system, the liability of a customer is zero, if she or he informs the bank regarding an unauthorised electronic transaction within three working days of receiving information in respect of the transaction from the bank, she said. Liability of the customer ranges from Rs 5,000 to Rs 25,000 if reported within 4-7 working days, and if reported beyond 7 working days, it shall be determined as per the banks board-approved policy, she said. In cases where the loss is due to negligence by a customer, she said, the customer bears the entire loss until he reports the unauthorised transaction to the bank. Any loss occurring after the reporting of the unauthorised transaction is borne by the bank, she added. Mumbai, Aug 6 (PTI) Equity market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty bounced back sharply in early trade on Tuesday after facing a severe drubbing in the previous trade tracking a smart rebound in Asian peers. The 30-share BSE Sensex jumped 1,092.68 points to 79,852.08 in early trade. The NSE Nifty surged 327 points to 24,382.60. All the 30 Sensex firms were trading in the positive territory during the early trade. Tata Motors, Tech Mahindra, HCL Technologies, JSW Steel, HCL Technologies and Infosys were the biggest gainers from the pack. Asian markets also rebounded sharply, where Seoul, Tokyo, Shanghai and Hong Kong were quoting significantly higher. Japan's benchmark stock index soared over 10 per cent. The US markets ended with deep cuts on Monday. Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) offloaded equities worth Rs 10,073.75 crore on Monday, according to exchange data. Global oil benchmark Brent crude jumped 1.27 per cent to USD 77.27 a barrel. "When market valuations are elevated, unexpected news and events trigger a market crash. This was what happened yesterday in most asset classes, globally. Fears of recession in the US and unwinding of the Yen carry trade along with tensions in the Middle East contributed to the crash," said V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Financial Services. It is important to understand that the correction in India was relatively lower compared to most markets. Once again, domestic investors came to the rescue of the market with DII buying Rs 9,155 crore when FIIs sold for Rs 10,073 crore in the cash market, he added. The BSE benchmark plummeted 2,222.55 points or 2.74 per cent to settle at over a month's low of 78,759.40 on Monday, marking its worst single-day retreat since June 4, 2024. During the day, it tanked 2,686.09 points or 3.31 per cent to 78,295.86. The NSE Nifty slumped 662.10 points or 2.68 per cent to settle at 24,055.60. During the day, it tumbled 824 points or 3.33 per cent to 23,893.70. Nifty also saw its worst single-day fall since June 4, 2024, when markets crashed more than 5 per cent after the general election results. New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) The seven-nation grouping BIMSTEC holds a special significance for India as it is at the heart of its Neighbourhood First, Act East, and Sagarmala policies, Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita said on Tuesday. He was speaking at the inaugural session of the BIMISTEC Business Summit being hosted here from August 6-8 by the Ministry of External Affairs in association with the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII). India attaches great importance to BIMSTEC which links five countries from South Asia -- Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, India and Sri Lanka -- and two from Southeast Asia -- Myanmar and Thailand, the minister said. "BIMSTEC holds a special significance for India as it is at the heart of our Neighbourhood First, Act East, and Sagarmala policies," the minister said. He spoke about India's last decade which has shown "strong growth" along with fiscal prudence, appetite for reform, able governance, progress in digital public infrastructure, rapid and appropriate skilling of the population and a vibrant spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. The event is being held nearly a month after the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers' retreat in New Delhi. The minister spoke about the forthcoming BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand which will bring together public and private sectors, think tanks, industry members, and academia on the same platform, the CII said in a statement. He spoke about the key focus areas for the BIMSTEC region -- capacity building, economic cooperation, and connectivity. The minister said BIMSTEC accounts for almost 25 per cent of the world's population and have abundant resources, both natural and human. "Greater collaboration between us promises to be a shining example of the Global South coming together for the shared development and prosperity of our people," Margherita was quoted as saying in the statement. The session was also addressed by Indra Mani Pandey, Secretary General, BIMSTEC Secretariat, who said, "Since the inception of BIMSTEC in 1997, the critical importance of intra-regional trade has been underlined by both the governments and think tanks, media and academia." Chandigarh, Aug 6 (PTI) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Tuesday announced that 'arthiyas' (commission agents) will get 20 per cent more commission on paddy crop. Saini said 'arthiyas' will now get a commission amounting to Rs 55 per quintal instead of Rs 45.88 and said the hiked amount is the maximum in any state. He said the government would compensate for the losses incurred by 'arthiyas' due to wheat shortages. For this, he announced compensation of approximately Rs 12 crore, he said. The chief minister made these announcements while addressing a meeting with members of the representatives of Haryana State Grain Market Arthiya Association and Haryana Rice Millers and Dealers Association here, according to an official release. During the meeting, the issue of wheat shortages was raised by the 'arthiyas'. They apprised the chief minister that since 1966, no government has ever compensated for this shortage, which averages around 0.20 per cent every year. The shortage in the previous Rabi season was 0.28 per cent. The chief minister said the state government will compensate for the increased shortage of 0.08 per cent. Saini said the last date for delivering rice to the Food Corporation of India for 2023-24 was June 30. Some millers faced issues due to storage shortages, therefore the government has decided to extend the last date to August 31. A request has been made to the central government to extend the last date, and it is expected to be approved soon, he said. New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) An investment of up to Rs 30 lakh crore is expected to meet the country's target of having 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030, Union minister Pralhad Joshi said in Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. Renewable energy is among the top priorities of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government, he said, adding that it is evident from the fact that the outlay has been doubled in the budget this year to over Rs 20,000 crore. "India has witnessed a significant shift in the investment Dynamics of Renewable energy projects. Around 7 lakh crore in the last 10 years has already been invested," said the minister for new and renewable energy, while replying to a discussion on his ministry's work. He further said: "To set up a non-fossil fuel-based capacity of 500 GW, (investment of) Rs 30 lakh crore is expected." During his over one-hour reply, the Opposition walked out of the house objecting to his remarks on the Congress party over its relationship with China. Taking a dig at the Congress party, the minister said in 10 years between 2004 and 2014, the investment was not even Rs 3 lakh crore. Between 2004 and 2014, when the entire world was discussing and developed renewable energy, the total expenditure was Rs 6,091 crore only. "While the budget for this year (for his ministry) is over Rs 21,000 crore," he said, adding in the last 10 years "the total expenditure is Rs 36,952 crore". Moreover, orders have also been placed for schemes such as PM Surya Ghar, PM Kusum, National Green Hydrogen Mission, viability gap funding (VGF), and PLI for solar modules. "This all will translate into Rs 1.60 lakh crore," he said, adding the government is working on Pachamrit commitments, in which it has targeted to achieve non-fossil energy capacity of 500 GW by 2030 and reach the net-zero carbon emission goal by 2070. During the discussion, opposition members raised doubts and asked as how the government would achieve the target of 500 GW from renewable energy by 2030 as the current capacity was 200 GW only. Replying to that, Joshi told the members to have hopes and said: "We have taken it to 200 GW and will achieve 500 GW also." Total renewable energy generated in India in the last 10 years has increased from 193.5 billion units to 359.89 billion units. Solar power tariffs, which were almost at Rs 11 in 2010-11, now have come down to Rs 2.60/unit in 2023-24. This has been helped by schemes such as PLI (production linked incentive) schemes encouraging domestic manufacturing. "Now India is at the 4th position globally in terms of installed capacity," the minister said, adding India is also at 4th position in wind capacity and 5th in Solar PV capacity. The total installed capacity of solar power as on date is 85.4 GW and the latest tender of 74.34 GW and 104 GW capacity is under implementation, the minister said. Besides, the "total installed capacity which is in pipeline is 256.02 GW", he said. The government has taken several policy reforms also. The ministry is implementing a Rs 24,000-crore Production Linked Incentive (PLI) for the selected solar PV module manufacturers for five years post-commissioning of production as well as on the manufacturing and sale of high-efficiency solar PV modules. "Letter of awards have already been issued for the setting of 48,337 MW partially or fully manufacturing capacity of high-efficiency solar PV modules. The manufacturing capacity awarded is scheduled to commence from October 2024," he added. Now 100 per cent FDI (foreign direct investment) is permitted through automatic route for the sector. "Including the nuclear energy, currently India has a pipeline capacity of 427.56 GW," he said. In response to Congress member Ranjeet Ranjan's comment -- "Modi Chini Bhai Bhai" (Modi and Chinese are brothers), Joshi said that the remark has come from a member of a political party which took donations from China to run their party. "In 1962 we lost 34 square kilometres of land. They said "Modi Chini bhai bhai". They are the people. The party that has taken donations from China to run their party, preaches to us. When they were in opposition, they secretly met who? Chinese ambassador," Joshi said. Ranjan had said that the renewable energy sector is dependent on imports from China when she commented "Modi Chini Bhai Bhai". The minister said that the (opposition) members did not acknowledge the heroic rise of the country's position to 4th in solar and 5th in renewable energy globally. The opposition objected to Joshi's remark and urged deputy Chairman Harivansh to ask the minister to authenticate his remark. The deputy chairman said the minister is not yielding. Opposition members then walked out of the house but Joshi continued his attack on them. He said opposition members level allegations without facts and don't have patience to listen. The minister said the GST rate was revised from 5 to 12 per cent based on demand from the sector. Participating in the debate Ramji from BSP said 57 per cent solar panels come from China and are of bad quality. The country has no expertise in this. Wind energy also needs to be explored as only selected companies are allowed. Abdul Wahab, IUML, and Sangeeta Yadav, BJP, also participated in the discussion. Ramgopal Yadav, SP, asked the government to reduce the formalities for grant of concessions under PM Kusum Yojna, saying that it takes over a month time. Kolkata, Aug 6 (PTI) The release of Srijit Mukherjees film 'Padatik', inspired by the life and works of auteur Mrinal Sen, has been postponed in Bangladesh due to the ongoing turmoil in the country. However, the film will hit screens in India on August 15. The film stars acclaimed Bangladeshi actor Chanchal Chowdhury in the lead role. Producer Firdausal Hasan told PTI on Tuesday, "We had initially planned to release 'Padatik' in both India and Bangladesh on August 15 and 16, respectively. But the current situation in the neighbouring country is not conducive enough for any film release." Chowdhury, whose portrayal of Mrinal Sen has been widely praised, was set to attend a special screening of the film in India. As of now, there is no update on his schedule. "It is a privilege to step into the shoes of Mrinal Sen, the creator of films like 'Calcutta 71', 'Interview', and 'Ekdin Pratidin', which made Bengalis proud. Acting in this film is like being a part of history," he said. The trailer for 'Padatik' depicts Sen grappling with the decision to quit filmmaking and return to his former job as a medical representative, with support from his wife Gita encouraging him to follow his passion. Mukherjee said he began research for the film during the lockdown two years ago, drawing from various books, research documents, and his own articles. He also incorporated tools and equipment used in Sens films, describing 'Padatik' as a classical biopic. "I also used tools and equipment used in his films. 'Padatik' is a classical biopic," he added. Chowdhury could not be reached for comment due to the current developments in Bangladesh. Chennai, Aug 6 (PTI) After being the face of Big Boss Tamil for almost seven years, actor Kamal Haasan on Tuesday announced that he will be taking a small break from hosting the show. Haasan posted on X that he would not be able to host the eighth edition of the show "due to prior cinematic commitments." "I have been privileged to reach you in your homes. You have showered me with your love and affection, for which you have my everlasting gratitude," he told the fans of the reality show Big Boss Tamil. "Personally, being your host has been an enriching association, where I have honestly shared my learnings. I will always be grateful for this learning experience. I sincerely thank each one of you and the contestants in the show," he had posted on X. Incidentally, there had been speculation in the media that Haasan intended to quit the show, right after its sixth edition. As per various media reports then, Haasan was expected to announce his decision after he hosted the grand finale of the sixth edition, which was aired in January 2023. Reports had stated that Haasan wanted to quit the show even in the face of a huge hike in his fees, as he allegedly wanted to break the monotony with film and other projects. It was also speculated in a section of the media that the falling viewership for the programme had played a role in his decision. Bangkok, Aug 6 (AP) Myanmar's military regime acknowledged Monday it had lost communications with the commanders of a strategically important army headquarters in the northeast, adding credence to a militia group's claims it had captured the base. The fall of the army's Northeast Command in Lashio city would be the biggest in a series of setbacks for Myanmar's military government this year, as an offensive by an alliance of powerful militias of ethnic minority groups makes broad gains in the civil war. The regime's loss of the Northeast Command is the most humiliating defeat of the war, said Morgan Michaels, a Singapore-based analyst with the International Institute of Strategic Studies who runs its Myanmar Conflict Map project. Without Lashio, it will be extremely difficult for the regime to hold onto its final outposts in the theatre. Those include the key Muse border crossing with China, as well as the strategic crossroads at Kyaukme, and it opens the way for attacks on Pyin Oo Lwin and Myanmar's second-largest city, Mandalay, Michaels said. In a video broadcast Monday night on state television, the head of the ruling military council. Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, gave a vague account of the base's fall, saying some security forces in northern Shan State left their outposts because keeping people safe was their priority. In his 25-minute address, he accused the ethnic resistance forces and traitor maggots inside and outside Myanmar of working together and circulating propaganda to demoralize people. He alleged that warlordism is growing among leaders of the insurgent groups, and that people are likely to face illegal and unjust killings and an economy involving drug trafficking and gambling. The army will continue to carry out security measures to restore stability, he said. The loss of Lashio raises questions about whether Myanmar's ruling military council could be forced to give up attempts to hold contested territory in order to consolidate a defense of the central heartland. It could also contribute to growing discontent with Min Aung Hlaing, who seized power after leading the overthrow of the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021. It seems increasingly unlikely that the army could survive with Min Aung Hlaing at the helm," Michaels said. Lashio, about 110 kilometers (70 miles) south of the Chinese border, has been the target of an offensive by the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army since early July. The MNDAA is a military force of the Kokang minority, who are ethnic Chinese. It is part of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, which in October launched a surprise offensive that succeeded in seizing large tracts of territory along the northern border with China. The Chinese Embassy in Myanmar on Tuesday urged its citizens in Lashio and other parts of Shan state to strengthen their security precautions, and stay away from conflict zones or return to China. Beijing helped broker a cease-fire in January, but that fell apart in June when the Ta'ang National Liberation Army, another member of the Three Brotherhood Alliance made up of Ta'ang ethnic minority members, launched new attacks, followed by the MNDAA. The alliance's third member, the Arakan Army, has never stopped fighting in its home Rakhine State in western Myanmar. The groups in the alliance have been fighting for decades for greater autonomy from Myanmar's central government. They are loosely allied with People's Defense Forces, pro-democracy resistance groups that have emerged to fight military rule. The MNDAA initially claimed the capture of the Northeast Command and Lashio on July 25, but it turned out the announcement was premature as the army continued to fight. The MNDAA in a statement on Facebook on Saturday said the group had finally completely captured the Northeast Command headquarters and defeated the remaining army units in Lashio. The claims could not be verified independently, with access to the internet and mobile phone services in the area mostly cut off. A member of Lashio's Freedom Youth Volunteers-FYV, reached while outside the city, told The Associated Press on Monday that other members of his aid group had reported army personnel remained in control of some areas of the Northeast Command headquarters, though most had been taken by the MNDAA. He spoke on the condition of anonymity out of fear of reprisals from both sides. There were reports of gunfire in the city on Sunday, but images of captured soldiers and equipment were circulating widely on social media, suggesting the MNDAA had taken the base. The MNDAA released a photo of its fighters posing in front of a sign outside the Northeast Command. The regime has clearly suffered an enormous loss and no longer has any meaningful control of the city, even if it retains a toehold for now, Michaels said. Early Monday, Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, the spokesperson of Myanmar's ruling military council, said in an audio statement on state-run MRTV television that it had lost contact with commanders of the Northeast Command headquarters Saturday night and had unconfirmed reports that some have been arrested by the MNDAA. He did not address MNDAA's claim of capturing the base. (AP) GSP GSP Dhaka, Aug 6 (PTI) At least 24 people, including an Indonesian national, were burnt alive by a mob in Bangladesh at a starred hotel owned by a leader of Awami League party after its leader Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister and fled the country, local journalists and hospital sources said on Tuesday. The victims, mostly boarders, were burnt alive late on Monday night as the mob set afire Zabir International Hotel owned by district Awami League general secretary Shahin Chakkladar in Joshor district. The dead included an Indonesian national, a local journalist told PTI in Dhaka over phone. He added the doctors at Joshor General Hospital confirmed they counted 24 bodies while surviving hotel staff feared more bodies could be found inside the debris. Media reports suggested unidentified mob, opposed to the Awami League (AL) regime, set the ground floor of the hotel on fire which quickly spread to the upper floors. There were almost identical reports from across the country where the angry mob simultaneously vandalised residences and business establishments of many Awami League leaders and activists, including its central office in Bangabandhu Avenue in the capital. Bangladesh descended into chaos on Monday after Hasina resigned, surreptitiously fled the country and landed in India while the army stepped in to fill the power vacuum. As the news of Hasinas departure spread, Dhaka and other parts of the country saw fresh round of violence in the already battered South Asian nation with mobs resorting to street violence, vandalising government property and even breaking into Hasinas government residence and looting the interiors. Islamabad, Aug 6 (PTI) Pakistan's National Assembly on Tuesday passed a bill seeking to bar independent lawmakers from joining a party after a stipulated period, with the jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's party voicing a strong protest against it. The Election Act Amendment Bill 2024 was moved by ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) members Bilal Kayani and Zeb Jafar and passed by the National Assembly with a majority vote despite protest by opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The amendment changed Sections 66 and 104 of the Elections Act 2017, restricting independent candidates from joining political parties after a constitutionally and legally defined period. It states that parties failing to submit a list of reserved seats within the specified period will not be eligible for those seats. It further stipulates that candidates who do not submit an affidavit of party affiliation to the returning officer will be considered independent, and their declaration of party affiliation after elections will not be recognised. When the bill was taken up for voting, the opposition members stood on their seats and started protesting and sloganeering. They came in front of the speakers dais, tore copies of the bill, and raised slogans Bill Rejected and Attack on Judiciary and Democracy Rejected and decried the government. PTIs Ali Muhammad Khan proposed an amendment to the Election Act, which was rejected by the house when Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar opposed it. Later, addressing the House, Ali Muhammad termed the amendment to the Election Act unconstitutional and questioned how the party could be deprived of its rights given by the Supreme Court. "The Election Act Amendment Bill is a politically motivated attempt to deprive the PTI of reserved seats," he added. Ali Muhammad said the PTI would move the Supreme Court against the legislation, which, he said, would reject it because this bill is not legislation but a manifestation of the fascist approach of a political party. He added that the Parliament was used to attack the Supreme Court through this law. Law Minister Tarar said 81 members took oath as members of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) and now are saying they are members of another party. The minister said the purpose of the amendment is to bring clarity to the election law. The amendment to the Elections Act 2017 will be enforced retroactively, clearly showing that the aim was to target the 41 independent lawmakers who could join the PTI after the Supreme Court verdict of July 12, which recognised that the PTI was a party and independents could join it. The court also declared that 39 members who had shown affiliation with the PTI while filing nomination for elections were its members, while another 41 lawmakers who were elected with the party's support may join it after filing an affidavit. The Election Commission of Pakistan already issued a notification recognising the 39 lawmakers as members of the PTI, while the fate of 41 others is still pending. After the Supreme Court verdict, the PTI was expected to become the largest party in the Parliament, while the ruling coalition was deprived of its two-thirds majority as Khan's party also got a share in the reserved seats. The new law would stop the 41 independent candidates from joining the PTI as they already joined the SIC after the election. After the elections, the PTI asked its supported independents to join the SIC to get a share in the reserved seats allotted to the party based on strength in the Parliament. However, the SIC bid to get reserved seats failed, and its petition in the top court led to the decision that independents could join the PTI. The proposed amendment also forbade allotting reserved seats to a party which had not submitted the list of candidates for these seats before elections. The apex court's judgment opened doors for the PTI to apply for reserved seats even without submitting the list before the poll. Khans PTI party could not contest the February 8 elections as the ECP rejected its intra-party elections and deprived it of the bat symbol for contesting the elections as a party. So its candidates, who had won independently but with the support of PTI, were asked by the PTI leadership to join a SIC to form a parliamentary party to claim reserved seats. The Greek island of Santorini has gained immense fame since the beginning of the social media era. Its snow-white houses with blue roofs, which look stunning against the sea, began to attract about 3.4 million tourists a year. And this is with a local population of only 20,000 people. ADVERTISIMENT According to CNN Travel, about 17,000 cruise ship passengers a day disembark on the island during the high season. All of them dream of taking pictures in the local capital, Fira, or in the town of Oia on the northwestern tip of the island, where they can watch stunning sunsets. The crowds of tourists on the streets during the day become so large that they prevent the locals from living their normal lives. However, everything changes radically after dark Local authorities plan to start imposing restrictions on the number of tourists in 2025. Thus, the mayor of Santorini, Nikolaos Zorzos, proposed to limit the number of cruise ship passengers to 8,000 people per day. This step was supported by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The decision will come into force next year. Nevertheless, locals claim that the problem is not so much in tourists as in the poorly developed infrastructure of the island. At least that's what Gianluca Chimenti, a local tour operator and resident of Santorini for 18 years, said to the publication. According to him, during daytime hours, tourists create excessive crowds only in the most picturesque spots. The rest of the island remains empty. ADVERTISIMENT Chimenti complains that the island is experiencing its worst season. The city centers and restaurants are almost empty after 9 p.m. even in the peak months of July and August. Guests arrive during the day on cruise ships and leave the island by evening. Therefore, they do not bring the island the desired profit, creating nothing but huge crowds during the day. This summer, hotel occupancy in Santorini is only 30% of the usual season. The rest of the local tourist-oriented businesses have similar problems. That's because the island has been perceived as being too busy with visitors. People are scared off by overcrowding, and they come here for a tour rather than staying for a vacation. ADVERTISIMENT The Greek authorities are currently working on diversifying tourist routes. In general, this country has been experiencing a tourism boom since the beginning of the year - revenues from the industry in the first 5 months of 2024 increased by 16%. It is expected that Greece will break last year's record of 33 million visitors by the end of 12 months. At the same time, tourists are mainly paying attention to the islands of Piraeus, Mykonos and Santorini. Therefore, there is a need to unload these destinations and redirect the flow of tourists. In particular, tour operators offer more excursions to archaeological sites, which are abundant in Santorini. It is also done to attract tourists to rest not only in the cities of Fira and Oia, but also in the picturesque villages located here. Subscribe to OBOZ.UA channels on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. ADVERTISIMENT London, Aug 6 (PTI) The British government has called for a United Nations led investigation into the violent incidents of the past few weeks in Bangladesh, which led to ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fleeing to India for the moment before reportedly seeking asylum in the UK. Foreign Secretary David Lammy issued a statement on Monday to condemn the unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life over the last two weeks in Bangladesh and said the UK wanted to see action towards a democratic future for the country. The government has made no official comment on reports of Hasina seeking political asylum in the UK, with Home Office sources only indicating that the countrys immigration rules dont specifically allow individuals to travel to the UK to seek asylum. The last two weeks in Bangladesh have seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life. A transitional period has been announced by the Chief of the Army Staff, reads David Lammys statement. All sides now need to work together to end the violence, restore calm, deescalate the situation and prevent any further loss of life. The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past few weeks, the foreign minister said. The UK wants to see action taken to ensure Bangladesh a peaceful and democratic future. The UK and Bangladesh have deep people-to-people links and shared Commonwealth values, he added. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar updated Parliament in New Delhi on Tuesday to confirm that Hasina had arrived in the country after a forced resignation amid public agitation. At very short notice she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi, he said in a statement in the Rajya Sabha. According to UK government sources, while the country has a proud record of providing protection for people who need it, there is no provision within the Immigration Rules for someone to be allowed to travel to the UK to seek asylum or temporary refuge. Those who need international protection should claim asylum in the first safe country they reach as the fastest route to safety, officials indicated with reference to the asylum procedures. London is believed to be the preferred final destination of Sheikh Hasina, whose niece - Tulip Siddiq, the daughter of UK passport holder Sheikh Rehana - is based in north London as a Labour Party member of Parliament from Hampstead and Highgate and junior minister in the Treasury department. Strategic experts believe the situation is a complicated one for the UK, which has previously offered Hasinas late father - Sheikh Mujibur Rahman - refuge on his release from a Pakistani jail in January 1972 following the countrys freedom struggle. Sheikh Hasinas desire to relocate to the UK, where her sister and niece live, puts the UK government in a dilemma. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has called for a UN-led investigation into the violence of the past few days. If this is held, it will likely hold Sheikh Hasina accountable to some degree and would look bad for the British government if she were then in the UK with the grant of political asylum, said Rahul Roy-Chaudhury, Senior Fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in London. But, at the same time, the UKs long-standing links with Sheikh Hasinas family makes it difficult to ignore her request. A possible solution would be to give Sheikh Hasina leave to enter the UK where she could live in self-exile. But, with Sheikh Hasinas niece being a Labour MP and minister, the optics of this will be challenging, he said. The student-led protests in Bangladesh started last month against a controversial job quota scheme and turned into violent anti-government agitation. Dhaka, Aug 6 (AP) Bangladesh is in the midst of a major transition after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was forced to flee the country after weeks of deadly protests initially over government jobs morphed into a broader challenge to her 15-year rule, which was marked by a rising economy but an increasingly authoritarian streak. The downfall of Hasina's government she resigned Monday before fleeing to India has plunged the country into a political crisis with a battle for power now underway between leaders of the opposition parties and the powerful military. Bangladesh's army has temporarily taken control of the country, but it remains unclear what its role would be in an interim government after the country's president dissolved Parliament on Tuesday. Amid this uncertainty, one name has emerged that could take the reins in Bangladesh until fresh elections are announced: Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate who is also known as the "banker to the poorest of the poor" and was once called a bloodsucker" by Hasina. Student leaders who organised the protests want Yunus, who is currently in Paris for the Olympics, to head an interim government. He could not immediately be reached for comment, but one student leader said Yunus has agreed to step in. Yunus, 83, is a well-known critic and opponent of Hasina. He called her resignation the country's second liberation day. An economist and banker by profession, Yunus was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for pioneering the use of microcredit to help impoverished people, particularly women. The Nobel Peace Prize committee credited Yunus and his Grameen Bank for their efforts to create economic and social development from below. Yunus founded Grameen Bank in 1983 to provide small loans to entrepreneurs who would not normally qualify to receive them. The bank's success in lifting people out of poverty led to similar microfinancing efforts in other countries. Yunus ran into trouble with Hasina in 2008 when her administration launched a series of investigations into him. Yunus had earlier announced he would form a political party in 2007 when the country was run by a military-backed government, although he did not follow through on the plan. During the investigations, Hasina accused Yunus of using force and other means to recover loans from poor rural women as the head of Grameen Bank. Yunus denied the allegations. Hasina's government began reviewing the bank's activities in 2011, and Yunus was fired as managing director for allegedly violating government retirement regulations. He was put on trial in 2013 on charges of receiving money without government permission, including his Nobel Prize and royalties from a book. He later faced more charges involving other companies he created, including Grameen Telecom, which is part of the country's largest mobile phone company, GrameenPhone, a subsidiary of Norwegian telecom giant Telenor. In 2023, some former Grameen Telecom workers filed a case against Yunus accusing him of siphoning off their job benefits. He denied the accusations. Earlier this year, a special judge's court in Bangladesh indicted Yunus and 13 others on charges over a USD 2 million embezzlement case. Yunus pleaded not guilty and is out on bail for now. Yunus' supporters say he has been targeted because of his frosty relations with Hasina. Yunus was born in 1940 in Chittagong, a seaport city in Bangladesh. He received his PhD from Vanderbilt University in the United States and taught there briefly before returning to Bangladesh. In a 2004 interview with The Associated Press, Yunus said he had a eureka movement to establish Grameen Bank when he met a poor woman weaving bamboo stools who was struggling pay her debts. I couldn't understand how she could be so poor when she was making such beautiful things, he recalled in the interview. (AP) GRS GRS Dhaka, Aug 6 (PTI) Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday met with the key coordinators of the anti-discrimination student movement at the Bangabhaban to discuss the current situation and the shape of the interim government, media reports said. Citing one of the coordinators, Bengali language daily Prothom Alo reported that the meeting started on Tuesday evening. "A group of 13 members of the anti-discrimination student movement is holding a meeting with the President and the three armed forces chiefs at Bangabhaban regarding the current situation and the shape of the interim government," the paper said. President Shahabuddin earlier in the day dissolved the parliament to make way for the formation of an interim administration. Officials said a full-fledged interim government is expected to be announced later Tuesday. In a video posted on social media early Tuesday, Nahid Islam, one of the key coordinators of the movement who is also present in the meeting with the president, proposed Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus as the head of interim government. He said they have already talked with 84-year-old Yunus, who has agreed to take the responsibility to save Bangladesh. Yunus is currently out of the country but welcomed the ouster of Hasinas regime, describing the development as the second liberation" of the country. He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his anti-poverty campaign through the Grameen Bank, a mode; which was replicated across continents. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court Bar Association President AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon has urged authorities concerned not to issue a state of emergency in the country. "There is a buzz about the issuance of a state of emergency. We don't want any government like that of Moeen U Ahmed and Fakhruddin Ahmed. No one, including students, wants the state of emergency. They will not accept the state of emergency. They will even protest if any initiative is taken to issue the state of emergency," he said. Beijing, Aug 6 (PTI) China on Tuesday reacted guardedly to the unfolding crisis in Bangladesh leading to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's ouster, saying it is "closely" following the situation in the violence-hit country. "China is closely following the developments in Bangladesh," the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in response to media queries. "As a friendly neighbour and comprehensive strategic cooperative partner of Bangladesh, China sincerely hopes that social stability will be restored soon in the country, the ministry said. The rapid fall of the Hasina government comes nearly a month after her high-profile visit to Beijing during which the two countries elevated their bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. China had rolled out a red carpet for Hasina during her visit here from July 8 to 10 during which Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang held talks with her and two countries signed 21 agreements. During their meeting, Xi said the two countries have elevated their ties to a "comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, which in Chinese diplomatic jargon represents an elevated recognition and importance Beijing attaches to its interests and its closeness with that particular country. Xi made a similar announcement when Maldives President Muhammad Muizzu visited Beijing after his election, elevating the ties from China's strategic perspective, besides broader economic and trade packages. The elevation of the ties with the countries in India's immediate neighbourhood highlights the importance Beijing attaches to these countries for its strategic pursuits. Xi had also extended support to Hasina in opposing external interference, an apparent dig at the US for its criticism of her undemocratic rule and the crackdown against opposition parties. Though slow to recognise Bangladesh after it became an independent country in 1971, breaking away from Beijing's close ally Pakistan, China after establishing diplomatic ties in 1976 with Dhaka consolidated its strategic ties under the regimes of Ziaur Rehman, his wife Khaleda Zia and later their staunch opponent Hasina. Colombo, Aug 6 (PTI) A political front representing Indian-origin Tamils in Sri Lanka said on Tuesday that it will back the main opposition challenger, Sajith Premadasa, in the presidential election scheduled for next month. The Tamil Progressives Alliance represents the Tamils of Indian origin across 13 of the 22 electoral districts in the island nation. "The welfare of our people is at our heart. We have to seek solutions to their problems within Sri Lanka and not from Indian help," TPA leader Mano Ganesan said. Ganesan said the decision to back Premadasa came after holding talks with President Ranil Wickremesinghe who is also contesting the election. "We held talks but did not receive a response. We are confident that a Premadasa government would address all our issues," Ganesan said, adding that he hopes to deliver 800,000 votes to Premadasa. Jeevan Thondaman, the leader of Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC) - the main trade union-cum-political party in the Indian-origin Tamil plantation districts - is a minister in the Wickremesinghe government and expected to back the incumbent president, leading to a split in the vote of the Indian-origin Tamils. Meanwhile, the Elections Commission said on Tuesday that so far 18 candidates have paid deposits to contest the September 21 election. Seven of them represent independent groups while eleven come from recognised political parties, the commission said. National Peoples Power, or the Marxist JVP, leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Tuesday paid his deposit to complete the list of main candidates anticipated to be in the fray. The election is expected to be a three-cornered battle between Wickremesinghe, Premadasa and Dissanayake, according to political analysts. Dhaka, Aug 6 (PTI) Families of the persons killed in Bangladesh's student protests on Tuesday placed 11-point demands, including rehabilitation by providing jobs, before the interim government which is set to be formed to replace the ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina's regime. The death toll in the massive protests following Hasina-led government's announcement of the quota system in jobs has risen to 440, with more than 200 people killed in the renewed spell of violence towards the weekend as violent clashes erupted between police and mostly student protesters. A statement, signed by Harun-ur Rashid, the convener of a proposed Committee on Families of Injured and Killed in Anti-Discriminatory Student Movement, said an initiative has been taken to collect accurate data on the families of the students, children, youth, elderly, men and women who were injured and killed in the violence. The demands include providing Tk2,000-3,000 per month as a grant for all students from pre-primary to Masters based on age under a Food-Card programme, unemployment allowance of Tk3,000 to job aspirants, formation of an inquiry committee consisting of armed forces and students for the treatment of the injured in the anti-discrimination student movement and the speedy rehabilitation of the affected families, the Dhaka Tribune newspaper reported. The demands also include direct government scholarships to students in private universities, changing the name of the educational institution established after various individuals of the Sheikh Hasina family and naming those after the martyrs Pilkhana Shaheed army officer, and also in memory of the martyrs killed in various movements and anti-discriminatory student protests. Inclusion of the neutral ex-army and police force members of the peacekeeping mission in the United Nations on an urgent basis to improve the ongoing law and order situation and also the inclusion of Bangladesh National Cadet Corps (BNCC) and Bangladesh Scouts as their partners, the committee demanded. The demand also included taking a quick initiative to recover all the illegal weapons used in the movement in the past days, consideration of redeployment of all categories of honest and efficient officers-employees who were deprived of promotion/compulsory retirement due to oppression and discrimination during the previous government. Speedy recovery of money of big defaulters and money smuggled abroad, the speedy trial of big defaulters and money smugglers in military courts, and the inclusion of at least one person in the interim government from the active student families of the anti-quota movement, the injured families and the deceased families, it said. The committee offered its deepest condolences to the bereaved families of those killed and injured in the movement and congratulated the army officers and soldiers at all levels of the armed forces, including the chief of the Bangladesh Army. Meanwhile, in a video message issued by the police headquarters media and public relations division on Tuesday, Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun urged leaders of all political parties and the Students Against Discrimination to make a call for not carrying out attacks on the police members and their establishments. He said the army men have been assisting the police to ensure their security. Thane, Aug 6 (PTI) Police have arrested three persons in connection with the theft of valuables of Rs 15.5 lakh from a house in Dombivli area of Maharashtra's Thane district, an official said on Tuesday. The incident took place on July 27 when a domestic help allegedly broke into a bedroom of the house along with his associates. They stole various items, including watches and Indian and foreign currency, valued at Rs 15.52 lakh, Vishnu Nagar police station's senior inspector Sanjay Pawar said. The police took the help of CCTV footage and technical and intelligence inputs to crack the case. On August 3, the police arrested three persons, one 27 years old and two others aged 45, from Navi Mumbai and Bengaluru, he said. Stolen goods of Rs 6.96 lakh were recovered from them, he said, adding the accused hail from Nepal. Search was underway for the house help, who is the main accused in the case, the police added. Jalna (Maharashtra), Aug 6 (PTI) Activist Manoj Jarange on Tuesday asked the Maratha community to prepare for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly polls, saying it has no option but to get political power if it wants reservation. Speaking to mediapersons at Antarwali Sarati village in Jalna district, Jarange expressed confidence that Marathas would come to power in the state, after the elections which are due in October. The activist said although he does not wish to enter politics, the necessity to secure reservation for the Maratha community might compel him to do so. He expressed confidence that Marathas, Muslims and Dalits would bring about a significant change in the upcoming elections, comparable to the "wave" seen in the recent Lok Sabha polls. Jarange has been demanding reservation for the Maratha community from the Other Backward Classes (OBC) quota. However, a number of OBC leaders have opposed it and demanded that their reservation should not be diluted. "We have no option but to enter politics and come to power if we want to get reservation for the Maratha community," Jarange stated. He urged aspiring candidates to prepare for the elections, hinting that a decision regarding their political entry would be made at a meeting to be held on August 29. The activist predicted that new faces would emerge victorious. While leaders are affiliated to their respective parties, "the common people are with us," he claimed. Jarange accused Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis of inciting Maratha leaders against him. He alleged that Fadnavis had orchestrated a campaign against the Maratha quota, and claimed some leaders of the community, at the deputy CM's behest, were trying to undermine the efforts to seek reservation. Jarange also accused BJP leaders of attempting to incite communal riots, but asserted the Maratha community would thwart it. "We will foil the dream of Fadnavis to create unrest in the state. Maharashtra is a peaceful state where people of all religions and castes live harmoniously," he said. Kolkata, Aug 6 (PTI) The Visva-Bharati university in West Bengal's Santiniketan on Tuesday said the annual tree plantation programme to mark the death anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore on August 7 will not be held at the Bangladesh Bhavan this year. This time, the 'Briksha Ropan' programme will be held at the old fairground, it said. "Due to specific reasons, the 'Briksha Ropan' has been shifted to Jagadish Kanon from the Bangladesh Bhavan compound," the executive council of the university said in a notice. Atig Ghosh, a spokesperson of the central university, told PTI, "Due to the present situation in Bangladesh, we thought it would not be symbolically appropriate to organise a tree plantation function in the compound of the building." The Bhavan, inaugurated in 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and then Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina, was built with the financial assistance of the Bangladesh government. Located on the sprawling Visva-Bharati compound, it houses a cultural centre and museum, among others. Visva-Bharati was founded by Tagore in 1921. Kolkata, Aug 6 (PTI) Members of the Bengali film industry on Tuesday voiced deep concern over the volatile situation in Bangladesh, mourning the loss of lives and advocating for peace. Tollywood actor Jeet, who has featured in several Bangladeshi productions, expressed his distress on X, describing the unfolding scenes as "shattering to say the least." He offered his prayers for the people of Bangladesh and expressed hope that they can emerge from this challenging period. "My prayers for the people of Bangladesh, so that they come out from the present phase...The incidents coming to our knowledge are heart rending. We don't want to be witness to such scenes any more," Jeet said, emphasising the need to save lives and protect them at all costs. Another Bengali superstar Dev, whose friend and Bangladeshi producer Salim Khan and his actor son Shanto were beaten to death in Chandpur on Monday, said, "I had been to Bangladesh several times and floored by the hospitality of the people there." Salim Khan had co-produced Dev starrer unreleased film 'Commando.' "The news of deaths and violence are upsetting. I hope this phase will end and Bangladesh will be back on tracks soon," he told reporters in Delhi. Actor Kaushani Mukhopadhyay, who starred opposite Shanto in the Bangladeshi film Piya Re, was deeply affected by his death. "I cant believe he is no more. Shanto was very respectful and had ambitions to make a significant impact in the industry," she recalled. Bangladeshi actress Pori Moni, who had recently worked with a Tollywood director, called for peace in a Facebook post. "We want peace, not looting, attacks on police stations, or revenge," she wrote. Pori Moni urged for restraint and responsibility, hoping to prevent further bloodshed in her homeland. The world is full of amazing places that offer their visitors unforgettable experiences and incredible views. However, most popular tourist destinations have long since lost their original charm. ADVERTISIMENT In pursuit of new sensations, many travelers are looking for quiet, unexplored places where they can enjoy nature, unique culture and tranquility. CNN told us about one of such places, namely the Marquesas Islands. In a world full of popular tourist destinations, where crowds turn them into noisy and bustling environments, there are still hidden places that remain out of the limelight of mass tourism. For example, the Marquesas Islands, which is a remote archipelago in the South Pacific. At the 2024 UNESCO Convention, they were included in the World Heritage List. This status was granted for the archipelago's exceptional cultural and ecological heritage. The remote location and limited human intervention have made the waters around the islands one of the world's last marine wilderness areas where dolphins can be seen performing 'stunts' right off the shore. ADVERTISIMENT This place is also known as Te Henua Enata, or "The Land of the People" (Dening 14), and is part of French Polynesia. The region consists of 12 islands, of which only half are inhabited. The archipelago is home to about 9000 people, with the largest part of the population concentrated on the island of Nuku Hiva. The Marquesas Islands are located approximately 4000 kilometers southeast of Hawaii and 4700 kilometers east of Fiji. Due to this remote location, they have not been affected by mass tourism, which has allowed them to preserve their natural beauty and authenticity. ADVERTISIMENT According to the Institute of Statistics for French Polynesia (ISFP), only 10,995 tourists visited the Marquesas Islands in 2023, which is less than 2% of the total number of travelers who arrived in Tahiti. Getting to the Marquesas Islands Most tourists arrive in the Marquesas Islands through Tahiti's Faaa International Airport and then continue by boat to Nuku Hiva and other islands in the archipelago. The Aranui 5 boat is a dual-purpose vessel that delivers people and cargo on 12-day cruises from Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia. This trip not only allows you to enjoy the beauty of the islands, but also gives you the opportunity to see them from different angles. Subscribe to OBOZ.UA channels on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. Kolkata, Aug 6 (PTI) West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Tuesday accepted the resignation of Akhil Giri as the Correctional Home Minister, an official said. He has kept open the avenues for Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to investigate the legislator's alleged misconduct against woman official of the forest department, following which the ruling TMC asked Giri to resign as minister. "The governor has accepted the resignation of Akhil Giri, minister of state (Independent charge), Department of Correctional Administration. The file was sent to the Raj Bhavan on Monday," the official said. This, however, shall not be construed as absolving him of the responsibility of misconduct against a woman public servant. "The CM may exercise her option to initiate an enquiry into the alleged misconduct of Giri so as to reestablish public faith in the system," the Raj Bhavan said in a post on X. On Monday, Giri resigned from his chair, a day after the Trinamool Congress leadership asked him to step down from the ministry and apologise to a forest department woman official for threatening and verbally abusing her. The TMC MLA from Ramnagar, however, said that he would not apologise to any official. Giri, who has been with the TMC since it was founded in 1998, said he would write in detail to the CM regarding the events that led to his losing cool. On Sunday, Giri, flanked by locals, was seen in videos threatening forest ranger Manisha Sahu, warning her of reducing her tenure after she and her team removed encroachments on forest department land near Tajpur beach. Incidentally, two years back in 2022, Giri's controversial remarks on President Droupadi Murmu were severely criticised. Party supremo and Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee had to apologise for Giri's "derogatory remark" on Murmu after a massive uproar by the opposition. Bhubaneswar, Aug 6 (PTI) A worker died and five other were injured following a poisonous gas leak at a private factory in Odishas Jharsuguda district on Tuesday, a police officer said. The deceased, identified as Barun Pradhan (38), was working as a contractual worker in the factory. The injured have been admitted to a healthcare facility, Umashankar Singh, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Jharsuguda, told PTI over phone. We have registered a case at Jharsuguda Sadar police station and the post-mortem of the body has been conducted, he said. New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina's travel plans have hit a roadblock due to certain "uncertainties" and she is unlikely to move out of India for the next couple of days, people familiar with the matter said on Tuesday. Hasina, who landed at the Hindon airbase on Monday hours after resigning as prime minister, was shifted to an unspecified location that has been put under tight security, they said. She was set to travel to London from India but is now contemplating other options after the British government indicated she may not get legal protection in the UK against any possible investigation, they said. The Awami League leader had planned to travel to London through India and her aides informed Indian authorities about it before she landed in Hindon, the people cited above said. In a statement, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy said in London on Monday that Bangladesh has seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life in the last few weeks and people of the country "deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events". While saying that Hasina's travel plans have hit certain issues and she may stay in the country for the next couple of days, the people in the know also described the situation as dynamic with no definitive path or clarity on the matter. Hasina, 76, who ruled the South Asian with an iron fist for 15 years, resigned as the prime minister following massive protests that initially began as an agitation against a job quota scheme but weeks later morphed into a mass movement demanding her ouster from power. The controversial quota system provided for 30 per cent reservations in civil services jobs for the families of veterans who fought the 1971 liberation war. Hasina's Awami League retained power in the parliamentary election in January that was boycotted by the opposition parties. Hasina, accompanied by her sister Sheikh Rehana, had left her official residence 'Ganabhavan' in a military chopper to an airbase, the sources said. From the airbase, she flew into Hindon in a C-130 military transport aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force, they said. New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) Indian spices have not been banned by countries like Singapore and Hong Kong, the Ministry of Commerce informed Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. Specific batches of a few spice mixtures exported from India were recalled by the food safety authorities in Hong Kong and Singapore due to the presence of ethylene oxide (EtO) above permissible limits, Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel said in a written reply. As part of its import surveillance, the Singapore Food Agency placed the consignments of spices from the associated brands under Hold-and-Test regime for a period of one month. The Spices Board, under the administrative control of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has taken various steps to meet the varying EtO limits of the importing country. They include mandatory pre-shipment testing of spices being exported to these destinations and issuance of comprehensive guidelines to be followed by exporters to prevent possible EtO contamination at all stages such as procurement of raw materials, packing, storage and transportation, Patel said. Further, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is fully committed to ensure the availability of safe food products to the consumers across the country, she stated. Towards this, the FSSAI through states, UTs and its regional offices conducts regular surveillance, monitoring, inspection and random sampling of various food products including dairy products, spices and fortified rice to check compliance with the quality and safety parameters and other requirements as laid down under Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006, and regulations made thereunder, she said. In cases of non-compliance to the statutory requirements, penal action is initiated against the defaulting food business operators (FBOs) according to the provisions laid down under the FSS Act. Further, the FSSAI has conducted pan-India surveillance for milk and milk products in 2011, 2016, 2018, 2020, 2022 and 2023. The report of milk surveillance conducted in 2018, 2020 and 2022 is available in public domain at www. fssai.gov.in/cms/national-surveys.php, Patel said. The FSSAI has also asked the states and UTs to deploy 'Food Safety on Wheels' for screening and rapid testing of milk and milk products. It has conducted pan India surveillance on spices in 2022, she stated. The FSSAI has laid down standards for fortified rice, rice flour for preparation of fortified rice kernel and vitamin-mineral premix for fortified rice kernel to achieve effective implementation of the national level rice fortification programme and to provide quality and safe fortified rice to the consumers, the minister said. Also, it has launched a dedicated portal, FoRTRACE (Fortified Rice Traceability) for traceability purpose of rice fortification starting from manufacturing of premix to fortified rice production, Patel said in the written reply. New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Tuesday urged the government to take "every possible" step to ensure the safety of Hindus, Sikhs and other minorities in Bangladesh, claiming that "fundamentalists" are targeting them in several districts of the neighbouring country. Addressing a press conference, VHP president Alok Kumar called for strict security vigil on the Indo-Bangladesh border, saying that attempts could be made to "orchestrate infiltration" into the Indian territory taking advantage of the prevailing situation in the neighbouring country. He also asked the world community to take "effective action" for the safety of minorities and protection of human rights in Bangladesh which he said is "trapped in a strange uncertainty, violence and anarchy". "In the recent past, religious places, business establishments and houses of Hindus, Sikhs and other minorities have also been rampaged in Bangladesh. Till last night, 22 houses in Panchgarh district alone, 20 houses in Jhenaidah and 22 shops in Jessore became targets of the fundamentalists and in many districts even crematoriums were vandalised," he said. There is "hardly" any district left in Bangladesh which has not become a target of their "violence and terror", he added. "In Bangladesh, the houses, shops, offices, business establishments of Hindus and women, children and even the centres of their belief, faith and worship such as temples and gurudwaras are not safe. It can be said that the condition of the oppressed minorities there is going from bad to worse," Kumar said. He claimed that a lot of damage has been done to ISKCON temple in the neighbouring country. "The Vishva Hindu Parishad urges the government of Bharat to take every possible step for the safety of minorities in Bangladesh," he said, adding, "It is appropriate to point out that Hindus, who were once 32 per cent in Bangladesh, are now less than 8 per cent and they too are victims of continuous jihadi persecution." Kumar said it is possible that taking advantage of the prevailing situation, a "big attempt" may be made to orchestrate infiltration into the Indian territory through the 4,096-kilometre-long Indo-Bangladesh border. "We have to be extremely cautious about this. Therefore, it is necessary for our security forces to keep strict 24x7 vigil on the borders and not allow any kind of infiltration," he added. The VHP president said after the resignation of the Hasina government and her leaving the country, the process of formation of interim government in the neighbouring country is underway. "In this hour of crisis, Bharat stands firmly with the entire society of Bangladesh as a friend. We wish that democracy and a secular government be re-established in Bangladesh as soon as possible. The society and government of Bharat will continue to support Bangladesh in this matter," he added. New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) The Border Security Force (BSF) has asked locals residing along the 4,096 km-long India-Bangladesh international border to not undertake unnecessary movement in the frontier areas especially during the night in the wake of the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in Dhaka, officials said on Tuesday. The border force has also asked all its units to "maintain an alert posture" all along the front that runs across West Bengal (2,217 km), Tripura (856 km), Meghalaya (443 km), Assam (262 km) and Mizoram (318 km). BSF Director General (Acting) Daljit Singh Chawdhary continued his border tour for the second day as he visited the Petrapole land port station, the largest such facility in South Asia located at a distance of about 80 km from Kolkata. The DG was accompanied by senior officers of the South Bengal Frontier of the force headquartered at Kolkata. "The DG was informed about the available troop strength at the border posts and other procedures being undertaken to ensure that no illegal person crosses over this border, given the current developments in Bangladesh. "It was directed to all the field commanders that the sanctity of the front should be maintained and instances of infiltration, cross-border crimes and smuggling should be dealt with strictly," a senior officer told PTI. He said the situation along the India-Bangladesh border is normal and added that the villagers and locals along the border areas in the five states have been asked to not undertake any unnecessary movement, especially during night. These restrictions are already in place but now they are being reinforced further as the troops are on extra alert against any suspicious or criminal activity including illegal crossings, another officer from the eastern command of the BSF said. The South Bengal Frontier said in a statement that coordination meetings were held with the local villagers at border outposts of Uttarpara and Mustafapur in Nadia district. "The discussion focused on the prevailing situation after the change of power in Bangladesh and the Bangladeshi Army taking over. The BSF emphasised the need for vigilance to prevent infiltration and smuggling activities," the spokesperson said. The villagers, he said, were advised "not to move freely" in the border areas and on the International Boundary Border Road (IBBR) during night hours. "It was also decided that all shops in the market should be closed by 2100 hrs (9 pm) and announcements would be made from mosques that villagers should stay away from the border areas. "The farmers were instructed to use the gate only for essential work and were assured of immediate assistance from the BSF if required," the spokesperson said. The Frontier had said on Monday that the "number of troops deployed along the border has been increased" in view of the developments in Bangladesh. The BSF has deployed about 87 battalions for the security of the entire border area as part of its six frontiers. Jammu, Aug 6 (PTI) Security forces launched a cordon and search operation on Tuesday following a tipoff about the presence of a group of terrorists in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district, officials said. The joint search operation by police and the Army was launched in Pathi Nalla Khanerd area of Basantgarh, the officials said. They said a few gunshots were heard as the forces moved deep inside the densely forested area to track down and neutralise the terrorists. There was no report of any casualty, the officials said and added that a hunt for the terrorists was underway. In April, a village defence guard was killed in a gunfight with terrorists in the Dudu area of Basantgarh. Jaipur, Aug 6 (PTI) Around 50 Congress legislators staged an overnight dharna in the Well of the Rajasthan Assembly to protest the suspension of party MLA Mukesh Bhakar from the House. The MLAs put mattresses in the Well of the House and sang bhajans. Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully shared a picture of the protest on X late on Monday night, saying, "Night rest and dharna inside Rajasthan Assembly." Chaotic scenes were witnessed in the Rajasthan Assembly on Monday after chairperson Sandeep Sharma ordered marshals to evict suspended Bhakar from the House over alleged indecent behaviour. Other Congress MLAs prevented marshals from escorting Bhakar out of the House. While one MLA fell during the melee, another said her bangles broke. Raising slogans, Congress members then sat on a dharna in the Well of the House even after the chairperson announced an adjournment for the day. In a statement, Speaker Vasudev Devnani said Bhakar displayed indecent behaviour with his hand gestures, which is unheard of in the history of the Vidhan Sabha since 1952. Former chief minister and senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot alleged opposition MLAs were treated undemocratically in the assembly and condemned it. Srinagar, Aug 6 (PTI) The Election Commission of India will meet political parties in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday to get feedback on conducting Assembly polls in the Union Territory. The office of the chief electoral officer, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday issued letters to various political parties, inviting them for a meeting with the Election Commission (EC). The political parties have been given time slots for the meeting with the Election Commission. The EC, led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, is scheduled to visit Jammu and Kashmir from August 8-10 to review preparedness for Assembly polls, weeks before the Supreme Court's September 30 deadline for holding elections in the Union Territory. Kumar will be accompanied by Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and S S Sandhu. In March, Kumar -- who was then the sole member of the three-member commission to visit the Union Territory -- had assured political parties and the people of Jammu and Kashmir that the poll panel would soon hold elections in Jammu and Kashmir. At that time, the two posts of election commissioners were vacant. They were filled days before the Lok Sabha polls were announced on March 16. After a record turnout in the Lok Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Kumar had said, "This active participation is a huge positive for Assembly elections to be held soon so that the democratic process continues to thrive in the Union Territory." Besides meeting the political parties, the commission will also review the situation with the chief electoral officer and the central forces coordinator. The commission will also review the preparations with election officers and police superintendents of all districts, as well as the chief secretary and the director general of police. On August 10, the commission will visit Jammu for a review meeting with enforcement agencies. It will also hold a press conference in Jammu to brief the media on the review process. Whenever Assembly elections are held in Jammu and Kashmir, they will be the first since provisions of Article 370 of the Constitution were abrogated and the erstwhile state divided into two Union Territories in 2019. The electoral exercise in Jammu and Kashmir is usually spread over a month. Following a delimitation exercise, the number of Assembly seats has gone up from 83 to 90, excluding those allocated to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Last December, the Supreme Court directed the poll panel to hold Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir by September 30. In a fresh indication that the Assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir are imminent, the Election Commission last week asked the Union Territory administration to transfer officers posted in their home districts, an exercise it holds ahead of conducting elections. The commission has been following a consistent policy that officers directly connected with the conduct of elections in a poll-bound state or Union Territory are not posted in their home districts or places where they have served for a considerably long period. It is usual for the poll panel to issue instructions related to transfers of officers ahead of Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. In June, it decided to accept applications seeking allotment of 'common symbols' from registered unrecognised parties in the Union Territory. New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) The National Green Tribunal has formed a panel and asked it to submit a status report on allegations of encroachment of a tributary of the Najafgarh canal in the national capital. The green panel was hearing a petition claiming "illegal encroachment and construction by land mafias in collusion with the local authorities over the drain", a tributary of the Najafgarh canal, in Goela Khurd village of Kapashera tehsil in southwest Delhi. A bench of National Green Tribunal Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava said the plea also alleged that several trees on the drain's embankment were illegally felled and that, because of the encroachment, the residents' welfare society in Shyam Kunj was facing a flood-like situation. "The original application (OA) raises a substantial issue relating to compliance with the environmental norms," said the bench, also comprising Judicial Member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and Expert Member A Senthil Vel in an order dated July 31. It formed a joint comprising representatives from the Central Pollution Control Board, Delhi Pollution Control Committee, Delhi Jal Board and the southwest Delhi district magistrate. "The committee will visit the site and ascertain the correct position and truthfulness of the allegations made in the OA, will find out the persons responsible for the violation and submit a factual status report before the tribunal, including the remedial action," the tribunal said. The matter has been posted to October 11 for further proceedings. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with the Supreme Commander-in-Chief on Tuesday, August 6. He heard reports on the situation at the front in the Pokrovsk, Toretsk, and Kharkiv sectors. ADVERTISIMENT The officials also discussed the production of Ukrainian-made drones and missiles. The Head of State announced this on his Telegram channel. The key issue at today's meeting was the situation at the front. Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi reported via video link, as he is directly at the front and keeps the situation under his personal control. Particular attention was paid to the Pokrovsk, Toretsk and Kharkiv directions. Separate reports were made by the Main Intelligence Directorate (DIU) and the Foreign Intelligence Service (FISU) on the forecasts of the situation and the immediate goals of the Russian troops. Another important issue discussed during the meeting was the provision of the Defense Forces with domestic drones and missiles. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Deputy Prime Minister for Innovation Mykhailo Fedorov, and Minister for Strategic Industries Oleksandr Kamyshin reported on the needs of the Defense Forces by the end of the year and the dynamics of arms production. ADVERTISIMENT "It was decided that additional funding will be allocated to our missile program after HQ meeting. There will be more missiles of our own production," Zelenskyy said. In addition, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov also presented a report on the supply of weapons and equipment to additional brigades. Active work with international partners to provide the military with all the necessary equipment and weapons continues. Mandya (Karnataka), Aug 6 (PTI) The combined opposition, BJP and JD(S), on Tuesday continued their protest march, demanding the resignation of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah over the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) site allotment 'scam.' The week-long Bengaluru-Mysuru 'padayatre' (foot march) has sought to highlight the alleged fraudulent allotment of sites to land losers by MUDA, including to Siddaramaiah's wife Parvathi. The fourth day of the 'Mysuru Chalo' protest began at Nidaghatta near here and is scheduled to cover a distance of 20 km to reach the district headquarters city of Mandya. BJP State President and MLA B Y Vijayendra, former Deputy Chief Minister C N Ashwath Narayan, Deputy Leader of Opposition in Assembly Arvind Bellad, several legislators, leaders and workers from both parties took part as the march resumed. Leader of Opposition in the Assembly R Ashoka, JD(S) leader Nikhil Kumaraswamy, and former BJP national General Secretary and MLC C T Ravi were among other leaders who later joined the march. A large number of workers and leaders from both parties were seen marching shouting slogans against Siddaramaiah and the Congress government, holding BJP and JD(S) party flags and placards, amidst sounds of drum beat. The stretch through which the march passed was decked up with flags of both parties, buntings and portraits of prominent leaders at several places. Kick started on Saturday at Kengeri near Bengaluru, the march on its first day had covered a distance of 16 km to reach Bidadi, 22 km on day two to reach Kengal, and 20 km on day three to reach Nidaghatta. Addressing the gathering during the march at Maddur, Vijayendra said, as a result of this agitation, Siddaramaiah might have to resign at any moment. "Such a situation has been created. The Congress MLAs have lost trust in their leader and leaders are fighting to become CM...The CM will have to bow down to the voice of the people and resign." The 'padayatre' is not being undertaken for the sake of power, he said, adding, "it is to remove the corrupt Congress government and the corrupt Chief Minister from power...do the people of the state need such a corrupt government and CM? can they do good for the state and its people. They have betrayed the people of the state." Vijayendra further said, this government which came to power in "the name of Dalits, STs and backward classes," has completely forgotten them. Nikhil Kumaraswamy during his address urged the Congress national leader Rahul Gandhi to seek Siddaramaiah's resignation, if he has "morality left and is really concerned about the SC/ST and backward classes." In the MUDA 'scam', it is alleged that compensatory sites were allotted to Siddaramaiah's wife Parvathi in an upmarket area in Mysuru, which had higher property value as compared to the location of her land which had been "acquired" by the MUDA. The MUDA had allotted plots to Parvathi under a 50:50 ratio scheme in lieu of 3.16 acres of her land, where MUDA developed a residential layout. Under the controversial scheme, MUDA allotted 50 per cent of developed land to the land losers in lieu of undeveloped land acquired from them for forming residential layouts. BJP leaders have claimed that the MUDA "scam" is of the magnitude of Rs 4,000 crore to Rs 5,000 crore. The Congress government on July 14 constituted a single member inquiry commission under former High Court Judge Justice P N Desai to probe the MUDA 'scam'. Based on a petition filed by advocate-activist T J Abraham, Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot had issued a "show-cause notice" on July 26 directing the Chief Minister to submit his reply to the allegations against him within seven days as to why permission for prosecution should not be granted against him. Subsequently, the Karnataka government had "strongly advised" the Governor to withdraw his "show-cause notice" to the CM, and alleged "gross misuse of the Constitutional Office '' of the Governor. The council of Ministers after their meeting had said a concerted effort is being made to destabilise a lawfully elected majority government in Karnataka for political considerations. Chennai, Aug 6 (PTI) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Tuesday announced a relief of Rs 10 lakh to the family of a fisherman who went missing when the boat he was in capsized mid-sea after a Sri Lankan Navy ship collided with it last week. In a statement, Stalin said Coast Guard ships had launched a search operation for the missing Ramachandran for the past five days, but to no avail. Considering the situation of the fisherman's family, Stalin announced Rs 10 lakh from the Chief Minister's Public Relief Fund. While one fisherman had drowned that day following the incident, two others were detained by the Sri Lankan authorities, Stalin recalled. The two, besides the mortal remains of the deceased, were handed over to Indian authorities on August 3. Patna, Aug 6 (PTI) The Bihar government on Tuesday said the image of a culvert constructed over a rivulet that went dry was being shared on social media with the claim that it was built in an open field. Additional Chief Secretary of the Rural Works Department (RWD) Dipak Kumar Singh said the photograph is of a culvert built over the Dulardai rivulet in Raniganj block of Araria district. "The photograph was clicked when the rivulet went dry. We have fresh photographs of the culvert, which is part of a 3.2-km-long road project. A major portion of the project is complete while work has been stalled in the vicinity of the culvert," he told PTI. According to another RWD official, a section of locals have obstructed work at the spot claiming that it was private land. "To solve the dispute, the department has written to the circle officer of Raniganj block," he said. The road was being constructed at over Rs 3 crore under the Mukhya Mantri Gram Sampark Yojana (MMGSY), he added. "When the project started on April 27, 2023, no one came to claim the ownership of the land. But when officials started connecting the constructed culvert with village roads, objections were raised. Work was started after scrutinising revenue records of the land," said another RWD official of the Forbesganj division of the district. Viewed of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Vice President Kamala Harris has appointed her brother-in-law, Tony West, as a powerful adviser to her new campaign, according to a report by Axios on Friday. West, a former attorney for the Obama Justice Department, has a controversial past, notably defending convicted terrorist John Walker Lindh, also known as the American Taliban. In 2002, West represented Lindh, who was captured in Afghanistan and charged with providing support to the Taliban and al-Qaeda, as well as conspiring to murder Americans. During the trial, West, then an attorney at the San Francisco law firm Morrison & Foerster, dismissed claims that Lindh was a terrorist. He is not a terrorist, West stated in a 2002 interview with the Washington Post. He did not go to Afghanistan to kill Americans. Despite Wests defense, Lindh was sentenced to 20 years in prison and has since refused to renounce his extremist ideologies. Wests involvement in Harriss campaign has raised concerns among some Democratic strategists. One party official expressed worries to Axios that Wests prominent role could re-create the same family dynamics that at times caused unnecessary drama in her 2020 campaign. West is married to Harriss sister, Maya, and is the stepfather of Harriss niece, social justice entrepreneur Meena Harris. A longtime ally of former President Barack Obama, West played a significant role in his 2008 campaign, raising $65 million. His efforts earned him a position as the Justice Departments third-ranking attorney, where he oversaw policies regarding Guantanamo Bay detainees. West advocated for expanding legal privileges for enemy combatants, emphasizing the importance of meaningful judicial review and fair procedures for detainees. Courts must have the procedural tools that enable them to conduct meaningful reviews of the lawfulness of the governments action, West stated in a 2011 speech to the American Bar Association. He further emphasized the need for fulsome procedures that allow [detainees] to test the legality of their detention. West also played a role in shaping policies that allowed detained terrorists to challenge the governments case against them. Weve worked hard to create a process that allows habeas counsel to review classified evidence, West said, highlighting the Obama DOJs efforts to provide access to potentially exculpatory material. Harris has previously criticized the use of the term radical Islamic terrorism, arguing during her 2016 Senate campaign that it ignores how Muslims have overwhelmingly been the greatest victims of terror. She has also been a vocal critic of Americas counterterrorism operations, particularly following the killing of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani by former President Donald Trump in 2020. Harris accused Trump of endangering American troops and called for the administration to brief Congress on its actions. Soleimani was an enemy of the U.S., but President Trumps actions put more American lives at risk and could lead to a new war in the Middle Eastwith no plan for what happens next, she said at the time. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) The Israeli Air Force conducted airstrikes on more than 230 sites in the past 24 hours, hitting 185 Hezbollah locations in Lebanon and 45 Hamas positions in Gaza. The strikes targeted areas where operatives were gathering, as well as observation posts, rocket launchers, and weapon depots, according to the IDF. Several buildings in Tzefas were hit during a recent Hezbollah rocket barrage targeting northern Israel. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported. The IDF has released video footage showing drone strikes on Hezbollah terrorists in southern Lebanon, coordinated by the 636th Combat Intelligence Collection Unit. This unit, operating in tandem with the 36th Division, uses drones to track Hezbollah operatives. One of the recent drone strikes eliminated a Hezbollah company commander, according to the IDF. Speaking to lawmakers from his ruling AK Party in parliament, Erdogan also says the Iranian missile attack on Israel last week and Israels anticipated response has heightened the risk of a regional conflict. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan calls Israel a Zionist terrorist organization over its attacks on Iranian proxy terror groups in Gaza and Lebanon, and repeats his criticism of Western powers, namely the United States, over the support given to Israel. The instructions published on the official Home Front Command channels must be followed. The full instructions are updated on the National Emergency Portal and the Home Front Command app. Following a situational assessment, it was determined that as of today (Tuesday) at 6:00PM, changes will be made to the Home Front Commands defensive guidelines. As part of the changes, it was decided that in the area of the Haifa Bay (HaMifratz), specifically the communities of Kiryat Ata, Kiryat Bialik, Kiryat Yam, and Kiryat Motzkin, the activity scale will be changed from Partial Activity to Limited Activity, meaning educational activities are prohibited. During these limited raids, the division has eliminated hundreds of Hezbollah terrorists, dismantled several underground tunnel routes, and destroyed dozens of terrorist infrastructure sites and combat compounds. Hezbollah had embedded hundreds of weapons along the border, which were located and destroyed by the IDF. The ongoing operations aim to neutralize Hezbollahs capabilities in the region. The IDFs 98th Division, including the Paratroopers Brigade, Commando Brigade, 7th Brigade, and Yahalom Unit, has carried out a series of targeted operations against Hezbollah strongholds near Israels border with southern Lebanon. Air France announced on Monday that it will continue suspending flights between Paris and Tel Aviv until October 15, and between Paris and Beirut until October 26, citing ongoing security concerns in the area, according to a company spokesperson. Netanyahus Address at the State Ceremony to Mark One Year since the October 7 Massacre Following is Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus address at the state ceremony to mark one year since the October 7 massacre [translated from Hebrew]: Citizens of Israel, A year ago, on October 7th, we were all hurled into a critical battle. That day, a Saturday, the Sabbath and the holiday of Simchat Torah, will be etched in the history of our nation as a day of grief and loss, of unimaginable agony. On that day, the Hamas monsters attacked our communities, our brothers and sisters, who are so dear to our hearts. They murdered and kidnapped babies and children, adults and old people. They tortured, maimed, raped, burned and destroyed. The memory of our citizens who were killed in the terrorist attack, and the memory of all the fallen heroes from the IDF and security forces, will be cherished forever. On October 7th, we were all hurled into a critical battle, but we were not defeated. On the contrary, it is we who are acting to defeat and deter our enemies. And, as we have often experienced in our history, it is in dark moments such as these that we exude our great inner power. We rallied together to defend our country, our homeland. We mustered immense mental strength. We outlined the goals of the war and we are achieving them: toppling the rule of Hamas; bringing all the hostages home, the living and the deceased alikethis is a sacred mission and we will not stop until we complete it; eliminating any future threat from Gaza to Israel; and returning the residents of the south and the north safely to their homes. We are doing this with solidarity unlike anything among the nations. When put to the test we proved, once again, that we are the Eternal People. A people that fights to bring light to this world, that aspires to spread good and eradicate evil. A people that rises like a lion, leaps up like a lion. Every time my wife and I meet with our soldiers, our wounded, with bereaved families, we hear the same message over and over again: we mustnt stop the war prematurely. As long as the enemy threatens our existence and the peace of our country, we will continue to fight. As long as our hostages are still in Gaza, we will continue to fight. We will not forsake any of them. I will not give up. As long as our citizens have not returned to their homes safely, we will continue to fight. We will continue to fight, and unitedwe will win. And when we win, not only for our sake but for the sake of future generations and for all humanity, we will rebuild the Tekuma region even bigger. When we hold onto the roots, the tree of life will grow back . Laly Derai, the mother of Saadia, who fell in battle said: Shadow is not darkness. Shadow is a sign that there is light from behind. Even if a mountain of grief obscures the light, we must all, as a nation, climb the mountain, because the light exists. We must always aim up, towards the light. Citizens of Israel, my dear brothers and sisters, Victory is the light. Victory guarantees eternity. October 7th will symbolize for generations the cost of our revival, and for generations it will demonstrate how determined we are and how strong our spirit is. Together we will continue to fight. And together, with Gods help we will win. Am Yisrael Chai! A Frontier Airlines flight that had been set to go from Houston to the Dallas area last week got canceled not because of weather, but because one of its pilots got arrested. The pilot, Seymour Walker, was arrested by officers around 4 p.m. Thursday before passengers began to board the plane at Bush Intercontinental Airport, according to Houston police. Walker was taken into custody without incident, Houston police said. Walker, 45, was wanted on an assault-family violence arrest warrant that had been issued by the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Department of Public Safety. It was not immediately known if Walker was still in custody Monday. The Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Department of Public Safety did not immediately reply to an open records request seeking comment. Walker could not immediately be reached for comment. In a statement, Frontier Airlines confirmed the pilots arrest and that it was not related to the airlines or the pilots performance of his job duties. A replacement for the pilot was not immediately available, forcing the flights cancellation, Frontier Airlines said. Impacted customers were offered the option of a full refund, credit or re-accommodation on the next available Frontier flight, later that evening. Passengers were also provided a $100 flight voucher, and overnight hotel accommodations as needed, the airline said. (AP) A judge on Monday ruled that Googles ubiquitous search engine has been illegally exploiting its dominance to squash competition and stifle innovation in a seismic decision that could shake up the internet and hobble one of the worlds best-known companies. The highly anticipated decision issued by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta comes nearly a year after the start of a trial pitting the U.S. Justice Department against Google in the countrys biggest antitrust showdown in a quarter century. After reviewing reams of evidence that included testimony from top executives at Google, Microsoft and Apple during last years 10-week trial, Mehta issued his potentially market-shifting decision three months after the two sides presented their closing arguments in early May. It represents a major setback for Google and its parent, Alphabet Inc., which had steadfastly argued that its popularity stemmed from consumers overwhelming desire to use a search engine so good at what it does that it has become synonymous with looking things up online. Googles search engine currently processes an estimated 8.5 billion queries per day worldwide, nearly doubling its daily volume from 12 years ago, according to a recent study released by the investment firm BOND. Google almost certainly will appeal the decision in a process that ultimately may land in the U..S. Supreme Court. For now, the decision vindicates antitrust regulators at the Justice Department, which filed its lawsuit nearly four years ago while Donald Trump was still president, and has been escalating it efforts to rein in Big Techs power during President Joe Bidens administration. The case depicted Google as a technological bully that methodically has thwarted competition to protect a search engine that has become the centerpiece of a digital advertising machine that generated nearly $240 billion in revenue last year. Justice Department lawyers argued that Googles monopoly enabled it to charge advertisers artificially high prices while also enjoying the luxury of having to invest more time and money into improving the quality of its search engine a lax approach that hurt consumers. Google ridiculed those allegations, noting that consumers have historically changed search engines when they become disillusioned with the results they were getting. For instance, Yahoo now a minor player on the internet was the most popular search engine during the 1990s before Google came along. Mehtas conclusion that Google has been running an illegal monopoly sets up another legal phase to determine what sorts of changes or penalties should be imposed to reverse the damage done and restore a more competitive landscape. The potential outcome could result in a wide-ranging order requiring Google to dismantle some of the pillars of its internet empire or prevent it from shelling out more than $20 billion annually to ensure its search engine automatically answers queries on the iPhone and other internet-connected devices. After the next phase, the judge could conclude only modest changes are required to level the playing field. If there is a significant shakeup, it could turn out to be a coup for Microsoft, whose own power was undermined during the late 1990s when the Justice Department targeted the software maker in an antitrust lawsuit accusing it of abusing the dominance of its Windows operating system on personal computers to lock out competition. That Microsoft case mirrored the one brought against Google in several ways and now the result could also echo similarly. Just as Microsofts bruising antitrust battle created distractions and obstacles that opened up more opportunities for Google after its 1998 inception, the decision against Google could be a boon for Microsoft, which already has a market value of more than $3 trillion. At one time, Alphabet was worth more than Microsoft, but now trails its rival with a market value of about $2 trillion. Besides boosting Microsofts Bing search engine, the outcome could hurt Google at a critical pivot point that is tilting technology in the age of artificial intelligence. Both Microsoft and Google are among the early leaders in AI in a battle that now could be affected by Mehtas market-rattling decision. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella was one of the Justice Departments star witnesses during the testimony that covered his frustration with Google deals with the likes of Apple that made it nearly impossible for the Bing search engine to make any headway, even as Microsoft poured more than $100 billion in improvements since 2009. You get up in the morning, you brush your teeth and you search on Google, Nadella said at one point in his testimony. Everybody talks about the open web, but there is really the Google web. Nadella also expressed fear that it might take an antitrust crackdown to ensure the situation didnt get worse as AI becomes a bigger force in search. Despite my enthusiasm that there is a new angle with A.I., I worry a lot that this vicious cycle that Im trapped in could get even more vicious, Nadella said on the stand. Google still faces other legal threats besides this one, both in the U.S. and abroad. any antitrust lawsuits brought against Google domestically and abroad. In September, a federal trial is scheduled to begin in Virginia over the Justice Departments allegations that Googles advertising technology constitutes an illegal monopoly. (AP) Venezuelas opposition leaders are calling on the countrys armed forces to abandon their support of President Nicolas Maduro and stop repressing demonstrators who have come out in force to dispute the leaders claim he prevailed in last Sundays election. The armed forces are traditionally the arbiter of political disputes in Venezuela and have been key to Maduros grip on power ever since he took over the so-called Bolivarian revolution in 2013 from his mentor, the late Hugo Chavez. So far, theyve shown no signs of ditching Maduro even in the face of credible evidence presented by the opposition that it trounced the self-proclaimed socialist at the polls by a more than 2-to-1 margin. In a message posted Monday on social media, Edmundo Gonzalez who the U.S. and a half dozen countries have recognized as the victor and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado called on rank and file members of the security forces to rethink their loyalty. We appeal to the conscience of the military and police to put themselves on the side of the people and their families, the two wrote in a long message. We won this election without any doubt. It was an electoral avalanche, the two continued. Now its up to all of us to respect the voice of the people. Authorities have declared Maduro the victor in last Sundays election but have yet to produce voting tallies to prove he won. The opposition claims to have collected records from more than 80% of the 30,000 polling booths nationwide showing it won. Maduro announced Saturday that the government has arrested 2,000 opponents and at a rally in Caracas he pledged to detain more people and send them to prison. The post-electoral uprising has also claimed at least 11 deaths, according to Foro Penal, a Caracas-based human rights group. Gonzalez and Machado in their missive called on Venezuelans with family members serving in the security forces to urge their loved ones not to attack protesters and obey illegal orders. It said it would offer guarantees to soldiers who follow the constitution even while promising there would be no impunity for those behind abuses and following illegal orders. Both Gonzalez, a former diplomat, and Machado who was barred by the government from running have gone into hiding, saying they fear they will be arrested or killed. Maduro and his cadres have threatened to lock them both up. As Venezuelans fight Maduro on the streets, pressure is also building internationally for the Venezuelan government to publish the full breakdown of the electoral results. But so far, Maduro has instead asked the countrys supreme court which like all institutions in Venezuela is packed with loyalists to review any claims of irregularities. Respect for popular sovereignty is what moves us to defend the transparency of the (election) results, Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Monday in a press conference alongside fellow leftist President Gabriel Boric of Chile. Boric, who cast doubt on Maduros victory claim in an unexpectedly strong statement within hours of Venezuelas July 28 election, told reporters that he and Lula discussed the situation in Venezuela on Monday, without elaborating. The leaders did not take questions and their carefully worded statements signaled how leftist leaders in the region are gingerly trying to show respect for Venezuelas sovereignty while voicing doubts about the official results. A few of Maduros staunch allies including Russia, China and Cuba have applauded his victory. On Monday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held a telephone call with Maduro and reiterated his congratulations and condemned any foreign interference in Venezuelas internal affairs, Pezeshkians office said. (AP) On the morning of August 6, Russian propagandists began spreading information that the Ukrainian military had allegedly broken through the border in the Kursk region. The Russian Federation claims that information about the Ukrainian armed forces' attacks comes from the Suzhansky and Korenovsky districts. ADVERTISIMENT In turn, citizens of the terrorist country of Russia have thrown a tantrum online. Propaganda Telegram channels write about this. The governor of the Kursk region, Alexei Smirnov, said that the FSB border service had prevented a border breakthrough. The official claims that information about the attacks of the Ukrainian Armed Forces comes from the Suzhansky and Korenovsky districts. In turn, Kremlin propagandists claimed that the fighting is taking place in several parts of the state border. The Russian Federation claims that the Ukrainian Armed Forces allegedly crossed the border in a small group of several hundred meters. At the same time, the Russians threw another tantrum on Telegram channels, calling on the occupiers to continue striking at the civilian population of Ukraine. In addition, Russians are surprised that Russia has gone from the Kremlin's "Kyiv in three days" narrative to attacking the Kursk region. ADVERTISIMENT Democratic delegates have selected Vice President Kamala Harris to be the partys presidential nominee, according to final vote results released late Monday by the Democratic National Committee. But dont expect a balloon drop just yet. Harris officially claimed the nomination following a five-day online voting process, receiving nearly 4,600 votes, which it said was 99% of participating delegates. The party did not release a precise number of votes that were cast for present or the state-by-state breakdown of present votes, though it did release state-by-state numbers for Harris. Harris had already secured the majority of votes needed to claim the nomination by Friday afternoon, DNC Chair Jaime Harrison announced in a live video presentation that day to mark the milestone, but the result was not official until after the voting period closed at 6 p.m. ET on Monday. Delegates to the Democratic National Convention began casting votes on Thursday to select their nominee for president, but unlike in past years, they did so not in the raucous party atmosphere of the convention floor or even during the convention itself. Instead, they participated in what the party called a virtual roll call, filling out electronic ballots from their homes, offices or vacation spots more than two weeks before the first delegate steps foot inside Chicagos United Center. Harris was the only candidate eligible to receive votes after no other candidate qualified by a Tuesday night deadline. How does the virtual process work? Delegates used an electronic voting method the party says is similar to one used to tally virtual roll call votes in the 2020 convention, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the party to conduct much of its official business remotely. Under new procedures adopted by the conventions rules committee in late July, candidates had until Tuesday to declare their intent to seek the nomination and until that night to electronically submit the 300 delegate signatures required to qualify for the roll call vote. According to a DNC statement, Harris submitted signatures from 3,923 delegates, about 84% of the full delegation and 99% of delegates who signed a petition. Under party rules, where only officially nominated candidates were eligible to receive votes, votes cast for someone other than Harris in the roll call were counted as present. Who gets to vote? Among those eligible to vote were close to 4,000 pledged delegates selected through state primary and caucus processes as well as more than 700 others who have automatic delegate slots by virtue of the elected office or party positions they hold. These include Democratic governors, U.S. senators and representatives, former presidents and DNC members. These automatic delegates, known informally as superdelegates, were the subject of much debate within the party for years because of their potential to influence the outcome of a close nomination fight despite not having been selected for their posts through a public process. Historically, however, superdelegates have never backed a candidate for the nomination other than the one who also earned the majority of pledged delegates. After the 2016 election, the party passed changes that allowed superdelegates to vote only on the second and subsequent ballots. Party rules do allow superdelegates to vote on the first ballot if a candidate has either won a majority of pledged delegates through the primary and caucus process, like President Joe Biden did, or submitted the signatures of a majority of total delegates, as Harris did. What about the nominee for vice president? Now that Harris is the Democratic presidential nominee, the new convention rules allow her to place the name of her pick for vice president into nomination, at which point the convention chair can declare that candidate as the vice presidential nominee. Harris is closing in on selecting a running mate and spent the weekend interviewing possible candidates. She and whomever she selects will head out on a seven-state swing of key battlegrounds, including Pennsylvania, Arizona and North Carolina, this week. Why did this happen before the convention? DNC officials first indicated in May that they would conduct a virtual roll call to clear a potential hurdle in getting the Democratic nominee on the ballot in Ohio. Ohios deadline to file for the general election ballot is Wednesday, two weeks before Democratic delegates would have crowned the nominee at the convention. Although the deadline had been modified in previous presidential election years to accommodate late-summer conventions of both parties, this year state Republicans initially planned to enforce the existing deadline, with one GOP lawmaker calling the scheduling bind a Democratic problem. The Republican-controlled Legislature did eventually make the change at the behest of Republican Gov. Mike DeWine, but the law does not go into effect until Aug. 31. Citing concerns that Ohio Republicans could still try to block their candidate from getting on the ballot despite the legislative fix, DNC officials moved forward with their virtual roll call as originally planned. So what happens at the convention? The main order of business at any national party convention is officially selecting nominees for president and vice president and for the nominees to deliver speeches accepting their nominations. Typically, the process of voting for the nominee is done publicly, with a live roll call vote in which state delegations cast their votes from the convention floor with much fanfare. This years pre-convention vote for the Democratic nominee was conducted behind closed doors, with results released only at the conclusion of the vote, instead of the real-time vote updates that have been a fixture of past convention roll call votes. Still, in this years virtual roll call, as with in-person roll calls going back decades, the outcome of the vote was essentially known long before the first vote was cast. Despite the period of uncertainty immediately following Bidens withdrawal from the race, an AP survey indicated that delegates overwhelmingly coalesced behind Harris to replace Biden on the ticket, leaving little suspense heading into the online vote. The DNC says the convention will feature a ceremonial roll call vote, mimicking the look of a traditional convention roll call. Harris will still deliver an acceptance speech on the last day of the convention. In addition to selecting presidential and vice presidential nominees, convention delegates participate in a variety of other business, including adopting the partys platform. (AP) The judge in Donald Trumps hush money trial is pushing back a date for a key ruling on presidential immunity until two days before Trumps scheduled sentencing. The immunity decision had been due Sept. 6, with the sentencing set for Sept. 18. But then Trumps lawyers asked Judge Juan M. Merchan last week to rule first on their renewed bid to get the judge to step aside from the case. In a letter made public Tuesday, Judge Juan M. Merchan postponed the immunity ruling to Sept. 16 if its still needed after he decides next week whether to recuse himself. Merchan said the Republican presidential nominee is still due in court Sept. 18 for the imposition of sentence or other proceedings as appropriate. Trump lawyer Todd Blanche and the Manhattan district attorneys office, which is prosecuting the case, declined to comment. A jury found Trump guilty in May of falsifying business records to conceal a deal to pay off a woman shortly before the 2016 election. At the time, she was considering going public with a story of an encounter with Trump a decade earlier. Trumps former lawyer Michael Cohen paid the woman and was later reimbursed by Trump, whose company logged the repayment as legal expenses. Prosecutors said that was an effort to disguise the true nature of the transactions and the underlying hush money deal. Trump denies the womans claim, maintains he did nothing wrong and says the case is politically motivated. Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg is a Democrat. Trumps lawyers say the Supreme Courts July ruling on presidential immunity warrants overturning the May guilty verdict and entirely dismissing the hush money case against Trump. The defense also contends that the trial was tainted by evidence that should not have been allowed under the high courts ruling, such as testimony from some Trump White House staffers and tweets he sent while president in 2018. The high courts ruling curbs prosecutions of ex-presidents for official acts and restricts prosecutors in pointing to official acts as evidence that a commander in chiefs unofficial actions were illegal. The Manhattan district attorneys office maintains that the high courts opinion has no bearing on the hush money case because it involves unofficial acts for which the former president is not immune. Meanwhile, Trumps lawyers asked Merchan last week, for a third time, to exit the case, saying his daughters work for Vice President Kamala Harris 2020 presidential campaign underscores questions about his ability to be impartial. Harris is now the Democratic nominee for president. Merchan rejected two prior recusal requests last year, saying the defenses concerns were hypothetical and based on innuendos and unsupported speculation. But Trump lawyer Todd Blanche argued that Harris entry into the presidential race makes those issues even more concrete and said the judge hadnt addressed them in enough detail. The hush money case is one of four criminal prosecutions brought against Trump last year. One federal case, accusing Trump of illegally hoarding classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, was dismissed last month. The Justice Department is appealing. The others federal and Georgia state cases concerning Trumps efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss are not positioned to go to trial before the November election. (AP) A class-action lawsuit has been filed against Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jamaal Bowman, and Ilhan Omar for their alleged role in inciting and encouraging anti-Israel protests at Columbia University. The lawsuit, filed by five anonymous students, claims the lawmakers supported an illegal encampment that violated university rules and harassed Jewish students. According to court papers, the protests, which included masked demonstrators chanting Free Palestine! and burning an Israeli flag, resulted in the violent takeover of Hamilton Hall on April 30. The students allege that the encampments occupants harassed, followed, physically blocked, intimidated, and bullied Jewish students. The lawsuit also targets several activist groups, claiming they contributed to the illegal encampment. Two of the five students filing the lawsuit are Jewish. In response to the protests, Jewish students at Columbia University wrote an open letter in May defending Israel and calling for peace and understanding. The lawsuit comes after anti-Israel protesters set up another encampment at the university following a NYPD raid in May. The initial encampment inspired similar protests at colleges and universities nationwide, with demands including divestment from Israeli companies and ending academic ties with Israeli institutions. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) As Iran threatens to respond to the suspected Israeli assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, the regional militias that the Islamic Republic has armed for decades could play a role in any attack. Heres a look at Irans history of arming militias, its allies in the region and what part they could play. WHY HAS IRAN ARMED PROXY FORCES? Irans policy of arming militias took root in the aftermath of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Before it, the U.S. provided major weapon systems including F-14 Tomcat fighter jets to the government of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. After the revolution and the U.S. Embassy hostage crisis, those shipments and needed maintenance programs stopped. Irans eight-year war with Iraq in the 1980s destroyed much of its arsenal. International sanctions on Iran, including over its nuclear program, also have kept it from receiving new arms while Israel and Gulf Arab states allied with the U.S. have received advanced weapons. While developing its own missile program, Iran cant match those sophisticated weapons. It relies on militias as an asymmetric threat to squeeze both Israel and the United States. WHO ARE IRANS REGIONAL ALLIES? Irans arming began in earnest in the 1980s with Shiite forces in Lebanon fighting against Israel. They became the Hezbollah militia. The arming expanded with the 2003 U.S.-led invasion of Iraq that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein, a longtime foe of Tehran. Iran strongly backed Syrian President Bashar Assad in his countrys long war. And Iran has continued when the opportunity has arisen, even arming Sunni militants while viewing itself as the worlds defenders of Shiite Muslims. Those relationships are managed by Irans paramilitary Revolutionary Guard. The militias in Irans self-described Axis of Resistance include these: Iraqi militias In Iraq, Iran supported a slew of forces that mobilized in 2014 to battle the Islamic State group. Those state-sanctioned, mainly Shiite militias, known as the Popular Mobilization Forces, have grown into a powerful political faction, armed with rockets, drones and other weaponry. The International Institute for Strategic Studies puts their strength at some 180,000 fighters. Other smaller or little-known militant groups have emerged and claimed attacks against U.S. forces as well amid this Israel-Hamas war. Iran-backed armed groups attacked U.S. personnel in Iraq more than 60 times between October and Feb. 4, according to the Congressional Research Service. The deadliest came Jan. 28, when the U.S. said a drone launched by Iranian-backed Iraqi militias hit a facility known as Tower 22 in Jordan on the Syrian border, killing three American troops and wounding dozens of others. In response, U.S. airstrikes hit more than 85 targets at seven locations, including command and control headquarters, intelligence centers, rockets and missiles, drone and ammunition storage sites and other facilities connected to the militias or the Guards expeditionary Quds Force. Lebanons Hezbollah Hezbollah formed in 1982. Israel remains highly wary of Hezbollah, particularly over the vast missile arsenal it is believed to possess and its battle-hardened forces who also supported Assad in Syria. While Israel has sophisticated missile defenses including its Iron Dome system, a mass barrage of fire from Hezbollah and others at the same time could overwhelm the country. Estimates suggest Hezbollah has an arsenal of 150,000 rockets and missiles, including precision-guided missiles. The militia also has been blamed for suicide bombings in the past, including a 1983 bombing in Beirut that killed 241 American servicemen. Hezbollah also has drones and surface-to-air missile systems. Hezbollahs forces number as many as 25,000 full-time terrorists, with additional tens of thousands in reserves, according to an Israeli military assessment. Hezbollahs leader Hassan Nasrallah in 2021 said the group had 100,000 trained fighters. Palestinian terror forces Despite being Sunni, both the Palestinian terror group Hamas and Islamic Jihad have received weaponry and other materiel from Iran. The groups, however, have been struck hard by Israel since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack that began the war, which saw terrorists kill 1,200 people and take 250 others hostage. Yemens Houthi rebels The Houthis have held Yemens capital, Sanaa, since 2014 as part of that countrys ruinous war. They follow the Shiite Zaydi faith, a branch of Shiite Islam that is almost exclusively found in Yemen. While broadly an insurgent force, the group with Irans support is now able to launch drone and missile attacks that have drastically disrupted shipping in the Red Sea corridor and now even reach Israel. The U.S. Navys efforts at stopping the shipping attacks has led to the most intense continue combat its sailors have faced since World War II, but has yet to end the assaults. The amount of direct command Iran wields over the Houthis, however, remains a matter of debate among experts. The Houthis attacks have raised their international profile while cracking down on dissent at home. The rebels claim theyve recruited 200,000 additional fighters since launching their attacks. The rebels and their allies have a fighting force of some 20,000 fighters, according to the International Institute for Strategic Studies. WHAT COULD ANY RETALIATORY STRIKE LOOK LIKE? In April following an Israeli attack on the Iranian Embassy compound in Syria, Iran launched 170 bomb-carrying drones, more than 30 cruise missiles and more than 120 ballistic missiles toward Israel. Israel, the U.S. and other nations shot down many of the projectiles, some of which came from Yemen. Iran could launch a similar assault, but this time Hezbollah may get involved as the militia seeks revenge for the Israeli strike last week killing senior commander Fouad Shukur. Such an assault could strain Israeli air defenses, meaning more missile strikes raising the risk of casualties and of a further escalation experts fear could lead to a wider regional war. (AP) Recent analyses suggest that nearly half of Hamas military battalions in northern and central Gaza have managed to partially restore their fighting capabilities, despite over nine months of intense Israeli military action. The findings, reported by the American Enterprise Institutes Critical Threats Project, the Institute for the Study of War, and CNN, paint a complex picture of the ongoing conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly assured that Israeli forces are on the verge of achieving their objective of dismantling Hamas and neutralizing its military strength. Speaking to a joint session of Congress on July 24, Netanyahu declared, Victory is in sight. However, forensic analyses of the conflict, which include Israeli and Hamas military statements, ground footage, and expert interviews, challenge these claims. Despite significant losses, including the recent assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh and the reported death of top military commander Mohammad Deif, Hamas appears to have effectively utilized its remaining resources. Reports indicate that several Hamas units have re-emerged in key areas that were previously cleared by Israeli forces through intensive bombardments and battles. Brian Carter, Middle East portfolio manager for the Critical Threats Project, noted, The Israelis would say that they cleared a place, but they havent fully cleared these areas, they havent defeated these fighters at all. According to Carter, Hamas is ready and willing to continue fighting. The IDF has disputed these findings, asserting that the majority of Hamas brigades have been dismantled and that most battalions are now at a low operational readiness level. The majority of Hamas brigades have been dismantled, and most battalions are at a low level of readiness, the IDF said in a statement. The analyses highlight that while some Hamas battalions have been severely degraded, others have managed to regroup and recruit new fighters. The resurgence of Hamas forces is particularly evident in areas like the Jabaliya refugee camp, where Israeli troops faced significant resistance even after extensive bombardments. Retired U.S. Army Colonel Peter Mansoor, who was involved in the 2007 Iraq surge, remarked, The fact that theyre still in Gaza, still trying to rout out elements of the Hamas battalions shows me that Prime Minister Netanyahu is wrong. Mansoor emphasized that Hamas ability to regenerate its forces remains substantial. Based on the analyses, experts argue that a lasting solution to the conflict will require a political resolution rather than a purely military approach. In response to CNNs investigation, the IDF criticized the report, claiming it inaccurately represents the situation on the ground. The IDF maintains that its forces are achieving their objectives and continues to target Hamas operatives in areas where they have re-emerged. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) US intelligence officials said that they have seen Iran moving around missile launchers and carrying out military drills, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday evening. Those observations could be a sign that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent. However, according to an Axios report, US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were informed by their national security team on Monday that the timing of the expected Iran-Hezbollah attack is still unclear, walking back Secretary of State Antony Blinkens prediction on Sunday that the attack could happen as early as Monday. There are also no clear indications of how the attack will be carried out. However, US intelligence officials believe there will be two waves of attacks one from Hezbollah and one from Iran and several of its proxies, and the attack will involve multiple barrages over several days. Early Tuesday morning, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin spoke with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant after a missile attack on a US Air Force base in Iraq left at least seven US soldiers injured. Secretary Austin and Minister Gallant agreed that todays Iran-aligned militia attack on U.S. forces stationed at Al-Asad Airbase in western Iraq marked a dangerous escalation and demonstrated Irans destabilizing role in the region, a statement from the Pentagon said. During the call, Austin confirmed to Gallant the unwavering U.S. commitment to Israels security in the face of threats from Iran, Lebanese Hezbollah, and other Iran-aligned militia groups. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday condemned as abhorrent an Iranian ambassadors social media comment on Israel. Albanese said ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi had been called in for a meeting with Australias Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade officials over his recent post on the social media platform X. Sadeghi cites Hamas spiritual leader Ahmed Yassin advocating that wiping out the Zionist plague out of the holy lands of Palestine happens no later than 2027. Sadeghi added: Looking forward to such a heavenly & divine promise Inshaa-Allah. The Arabic expression means if God wills. Albanese told reporters: I make it clear: Theres no place for the sort of comments that were made online on social media by the Iranian ambassador. Theyre abhorrent. And they are hateful, they are antisemitic and they have no place, Albanese added. Asked by a reporters if the ambassador should be expelled from Australia, Albanese did not directly answer. The Iranian Embassy in Australia did not immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday. (AP) Russia has begun supplying the Islamic Republic with advanced air defense systems and radars, The New York Times reported on Tuesday. Iranian officials, including a member of the Revolutionary Guards, quoted in the report said that Iran requested missile defense systems from Russia in preparation for a possible war with Israel. Russia has financial problems and although it maintains economic and cultural ties with Israel, Moscow cannot afford to reject Irans request for help because it relies heavily on Iranian drones in its war on Ukraine, an official in a consultancy on security and intelligence matters said. Unlike most nations that condemned Irans attack on Israel in April, Russia justified the attack. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) A 20-year-old female Border Police officer was lightly injured in a stabbing attack at a checkpoint in the Gush Etzion tunnel road near Jerusalem on Tuesday morning. The terrorist, who was armed with a knife and a sharpened screwdriver, was shot and killed by other Border Police officers and security guards at the scene. Paramedics who arrived at the scene administered emergency medical aid to the officer and evacuated her in light condition to Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital in Jerusalem. BChasdei Hashem, she suffered from only superficial injuries to her back and arm. Police said after the incident that the terrorist was on a bus from the Palestinian Authority that was stopped at the checkpoint to be checked. As the terrorist was being questioned to ensure he had a legal entry permit, he stabbed the police officer with a screwdriver. The police said they found a knife and other suspicious items on the terrorists body. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Only about 48 Chareidim reported to induction centers on Monday out of 900 who received initial draft orders and were required to register at the centers. An IDF official told Kan News that more Chareidim would have registered but were deterred by the protesters outside the center. However, the vast majority of Chareidim did not report due to the instructions of their Roshei Yeshivos and Gedolei HaDor to ignore the orders. Extremists held another protest on Tuesday outside induction centers. The IDF stated that anyone who does not report for the initial draft order after two summons will be categorized as a deserter, with the resulting criminal ramifications. MK Yuli Edelstein, the chairman of the Knessets Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, commented on the failure: The sending of the draft orders in a hasty, arrogant, and unilateral manner not only caused a resounding failure but led to the opposite result. The Supreme Court and the Defense Ministry operated in a method of send and forget about it and here is the result. Now everyone understands that theres only one way to bring about a historical correction, one that will unite society and introduce a necessary fighting force into the IDF. Only a conscription law reached in a balanced, responsible, and thorough manner will result in Chareidi recruitment. Any other gimmick will join 76 years of failure. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Educational exposure of ideas, assumptions or hypotheses, based on proven facts" (which need not be strictly current affairs) Value in judgments are excluded, and the text comes close to an opinion article, without judging or making forecasts , just formulating hypotheses, giving motivated explanations and bringing together a variety of data The largest prisoner swap between Russia and the West since the end of the Cold War sheds light on the nature of the regime led by Vladimir Putin and the solid fusion between a criminal world and a caste originating from the USSR security services, of which the president was a member. Among the Russian citizens who returned home, convicted murderer Vadim Krasikov is at the center of the delicate swap. The reception he received confirms that the Russian system functions as an amalgamated structure around the so-called siloviki the name for the set of defense, security and law enforcement bodies in the country and their members. Krasikov was sentenced to life imprisonment in Germany for shooting dead a former Chechen independence commander. The Tiergarten killer in reference to the name of the Berlin park where the murder took place in August 2019 was received at Moscows Vnukovo airport with a red carpet, an honor guard, and a hug and friendly greeting from Putin, who worked hard to free him. Never before has Putin gone so far in publicly identifying himself with one of those figures who, inside and outside Russia, shoot and poison people who are perceived as dangerous enemies of the system. Krasikov worked for Alfa, a special unit created in 1974 to fight terrorism, which was attached to the FSB (the federal security service, successor to the Soviet KGB). And he knew some of Putins active bodyguards, according to Putins press secretary, Dmitry Peskov. What Peskov did not say is that Krasikov has a criminal record in Russia, after being accused, along with two others, of ordering the murder of a businessman in the Karelia region in 2007. Nor did he say that in 2014, he was wanted for the murder of another businessman in Moscow, according to data registered by Interpol from the Russian Interior Ministry. In February, Putin referred to Krasikov as a man who due to patriotic sentiments eliminated a bandit in one of the European capitals. Now the patriot will be decorated for it. To understand the system that hails him as a hero, one must go back to the great transformations that took place after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The Perestroika political reform movement paved the way for the east and west blocs which had been at odds for decades to peacefully coexist. But this change severely affected key social sectors of the Soviet system: hundreds of thousands of siloviki were demobilized and returned from their garrisons in Eastern Europe, hundreds of arms factories were dismantled and converted to produce civilian consumer goods. The economic system based on the arms industry had collapsed, but the Russian model for a new peaceful world was still in an embryonic state and even receded. In the early 1990s, many career officers discharged from the Armed Forces had to reinvent themselves after being made unemployed; they survived by working as pirate taxi drivers, bodyguards for the nouveau riche, arms dealers, mercenaries and volunteers in the still-smoldering armed conflicts, such as those between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh or the conflict between Abkhazia and South Ossetia against Georgia. The mafia and power structures in Russia were formed in this breeding ground. They were staffed by people who simultaneously acted as guardians of order and as bandits. Some, the most clever, rose to the top in the economics, politics and administration of the state. Others were happy to earn their bread with guns in hand. All this coexisted in the same system. Since Putin became president, siloviki have multiplied throughout the state structure, and today they are in ministries, public and private companies, banks and financial institutions. They are the ones who underpin and ensure the authoritarian and repressive character of todays Russia. At least 13 of Putins bodyguards occupy important positions in Russian power structures. One of the best known figures is Aleksey Dyumin, who, after being governor of Tula Oblast, has returned to the presidents entourage as his assistant and as Russias state secretary. After Stalins death, the siloviki were given a place in the structure of the USSR under the control and direction of the Communist Party. With the disappearance of the state, these services combined with judges, prosecutors and politicians became an uncontrolled caste that used the state for its own benefit. This phenomenon was discussed in 2007 by the insightful Viktor Cherkesov, then head of the Russian Drug Control Service. Cherkesov, a Chekist (veteran of the security services), was concerned about the way in which his fellow officers had evolved. According to him, they were the only ones capable of ensuring the unity of the state after the end of the USSR. In the newspaper Kommersant, Cherkesov urged his comrades to overcome their closed corporatism, to create binding state rules for all (rather than arbitrary regulations), and to move toward a normal civil society. He warned that the privileged elite of which he himself was a part risked turning into a swamp like the worst Latin American dictators if it delayed the pending transition. The caste is destroyed from within when warriors become merchants, he warned. Soviet methods Today, the siloviki set the tone for Russian politics with the methods they learned in the USSR and then perfected in a climate of resentment, greed and the lack of vision taking into account the challenges of modernity. On the other hand, the arrival of the dissidents released in Russia in the West also highlights a reality that is perhaps little known and appreciated: it shone a light on the Russian citizens who, by their civic conscience, their courage and their sense of responsibility, are different from the majority that ignores the repression of their fellow citizens. In his press conference after their release, politician Ilya Yashin said that while being transferred from one prison to another during his detention, he happened to meet anonymous people imprisoned for a comment or a phone call. These are political prisoners who are outside our field of observation. There are huge numbers of these people. They have no hope because nobody knows about them, he said. Memorial, the human rights organization banned in Russia, lists 1,532 political prisoners of various categories. Yashin and Vladimir Kara-Murza, another of the freed Russian dissidents, spoke of thousands. Pavel Kushnir, a 39-year-old pianist and pacifist imprisoned for criticizing the war who was accused of inciting terrorism, is the most recent case. Kushnir died on July 29 as a result of a hunger strike in a cell in the Russian Far East. He was an unknown; his philosophical and poetic reflections on social media only half a dozen followers. It is an opportunity to reflect on the deep Russia and on Yashins words. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Extremist Chareidi protesters on Tuesday who were holding a protest against the Chareidi draft for the second consecutive day at the Tel HaShomer induction center in central Israel broke into the base on Tuesday afternoon. Videos of the scene show the situation spiraling out of control as soldiers and police officers try to forcibly remove the protesters. A large number of police and IDF forces were called to the scene to restore order. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Officials in the regional coalition headed by the US that will aid Israel against an Iranian attack have warned Israeli officials against planning a massive retaliatory attack against Iran, Kan News reported on Tuesday morning Officials told Israel that the goal is not to end up in an all-out war. Israel planned a significant military response after it was attacked by Iran in April but heavy US pressure moderated its response to a targeted attack near Isfahan. Biden administration officials are even more concerned this time of a regional escalation and therefore are already discussing the Israeli response to the anticipated Iranian attack. Former ambassador to Israel David Friedman stated on Tuesday: The two most important words in military strategy are escalation and deterrence. Escalation is when military actions increase leading to war. If preventable on reasonable terms, no one wants escalation. Deterrence is what prevents escalation. When the enemy knows that it will lose more from attacking than it will gain. Israel has survived for 76 years surrounded by enemies through its power of deterrence. Now, Biden/Harris et al are begging Iran not to escalate its threats against Israel but they simultaneously are removing Israels power of deterrence. They have brought 12 ships into the region but only for DEFENSIVE purposes. They have all but advertised that they will hold Israel back from attacking Iran, denying Israel the use of force that will stop Iran from further military strikes. In keeping with the Biden/Harris strategy across the globe, they will not let Americas allies win. Just play to a tie and hope for no further kinetic activity until Election Day. Why do they not want Israel to win? Because a successful strike by Israel which restores its deterrence while good for America and the world will fracture the Democrat party. Half the party is rooting for Iran and will go nuts if Israel receives this support. Its all lousy Democrat politics. Bad for America, bad for Israel, bad for the world. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) A large-scale counterterrorism operation was launched yesterday afternoon in Jenin and surrounding areas, involving the IDF, Shin Bet, and Israel Border Police. The IDF says an aircraft targeted and eliminated four terrorists in the Jenin area, while ground forces eliminated an additional seven terrorists and wounded others. The terrorists were reportedly armed, hurled explosive devices at security forces, and attempted to plant explosives in the area. During the operation, security forces successfully dismantled multiple explosive devices planted under roads to harm them. Several wanted suspects were apprehended, and an M-16 rifle was confiscated. One IDF soldier was moderately injured during the operation and was evacuated to a hospital for medical treatment. His family has been notified. The apprehended suspects and confiscated weaponry have been transferred to the relevant authorities for further processing. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) In a remarkable show of support for Israels soldiers, Koren Jerusalem is in the final stages of a unique project: producing and distributing pocket-sized editions of the chumash to those fighting in Gaza, defending the northern border as well as Judea and Samaria. This initiative has been driven by the companys deep connection to Israel and Zionism, with 25 percent of its staff serving in the reserves for over nine months. Yehoshua Miller, Koren Jerusalems Executive VP and a reservist in the Givati Brigade who himself has spent much of the last year in Gaza, explains the significance of this project: We understand the profound need for spiritual support during these challenging times. These pocket-sized chumashim are designed to be durable and portable, making them ideal for soldiers who are constantly on the move and often in harsh conditions. They allow our soldiers to feel a sense of normalcy when they sit to listen to the Torah reading or spend a few moments learning the parasha even under the wildest circumstances. The Koren Tanakh, first published more than sixty years ago was, for many years, received by all IDF recruits at their swearing-in ceremonies, highlighting Korens dedication to nurturing the spiritual lives of Israels defenders as well as their physical connection to the land and state of Israel, themselves operating from the heart of Jerusalem since the 1950s. By distributing these pocket-sized chumashim, Koren continues to meet the needs of both religious and non-religious soldiers, offering them a source of strength and comfort. Matthew Miller, the publisher at Koren Jerusalem, emphasizes the enduring value of these sacred texts: We have always believed in the power of the Tanakh to provide solace and inspiration. This initiative aims to offer our soldiers a tangible connection to their faith and heritage, no matter where they are. In addition to the chumashim, Koren Jerusalem has produced and distributed tens of thousands of siddurim and Tehillim books, all specially designed for soldiers. This effort has been consistent since the start of the war, ensuring that those on the front lines have access to the timeless wisdom and comfort found in these sacred texts. Caryn Meltz, the production manager at Koren Jerusalem, has played a crucial role in the logistics of this project. My son-in-law has been in and out of reserve duty, while my daughter is completing her regular army service in the Kirya, Caryn shares. Knowing that we are actively supporting our soldiers with these chumashim gives me immense pride and peace of mind. The project is nearing its conclusion, with the fifth book of Devarim currently on its way into the hands of soldiers around Israel and inside Gaza itself. Printing in stages has aided the logistical distribution of the books, a process facilitated by the army rabbinate and through word of mouth. Weeks before the next book of chumash is meant to be read, Koren receives numerous requests from soldiers to receive both small and large quantities of chumashim. Koren has received short video clips from soldiers in the middle of Gaza holding up their chumashim with great pride. The decision to print in stages was also made with the hope that soldiers would no longer need a chumash in the field by the time the next book was ready, allowing them to return home to their families and communities. Unfortunately, the ongoing conflict has prolonged their deployment. Many soldiers have expressed how meaningful it is to have a chumash with them. Its not just a book; its a source of strength, a reminder of what we are fighting for, and a connection to our roots and faith, says one soldier. Korens initiative is more than just a distribution of religious texts. It is a powerful statement of solidarity and support for those who defend the Jewish homeland. As the war continues, Koren Jerusalem remains committed to its mission, driven by a profound sense of duty and a deep connection to the land and people of Israel. The impact of this project is already being felt on the front lines. Soldiers carrying the chumashim report feeling a renewed sense of purpose and comfort. In the midst of chaos, it reminds me of my identity and the values I am defending, another soldier shares. In a time of unprecedented challenges, this project stands as a beacon of hope and faith. By providing soldiers with the spiritual sustenance they need, Koren Jerusalem reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the people and the State of Israel. The Palestinian terrorist group Hamas said Tuesday it has chosen Yahya Sinwar, its top official in Gaza who masterminded the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, as its new leader. The choice of Sinwar, a secretive figure who leads Hamas hardliners and is close to Iran, was a defiant step. Sinwar is at the top of Israels kill list as it seeks to destroy Hamas and its leadership after the Oct. 7 attack in which terrorists killed 1,200 people in southern Israel and took about 250 as hostages. Hamas said in a statement it named Sinwar as the new head of its political bureau to replace Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Iran last week in a presumed Israeli strike. Also last week, Israel said it had confirmed the death of the head of Hamas military wing, Mohammed Deif, in a July airstrike in Gaza. Hamas has not confirmed his death. Unlike Haniyeh, who had lived in exile in Qatar for years, Sinwar has remained in Gaza. As Hamas leader in the territory since 2017, he rarely appeared in public but kept an iron grip on Hamas rule. Close to Deif and the armed wing, known as the Qassam Brigades, he worked to build up the groups military capabilities. Sinwar has been in deep hiding since the Oct. 7 attacks, while Israel unleashed its campaign in Gaza. In reaction to the appointment, Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari told Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya televsion, There is only one place for Yahya Sinwar, and it is beside Mohammed Deif and the rest of the October 7th terrorists. That is the only place were preparing and intending for him. Israels killings of multiple senior officials in Hamas over recent months left Sinwar as the most prominent figure in the group. His selection signals that the leadership on the ground in Gaza particularly the armed wing known as the Qassam Brigades has taken over from the leadership in exile, which has traditionally maintained the position of the overall leadership to navigate relations with foreign allies and diplomacy. Haniyeh, who had lived in self-imposed exile in Qatar since 2019, had played a direct role in negotiations over a cease-fire in Gaza through U.S., Qatari and Egyptian negotiators though he and other Hamas officials always ran proposals and positions by Sinwar. Speaking to Al-Jazeera television after the announcement, Hamas spokesman Osama Hamdan said Sinwar would continue the cease-fire negotiations. The problem in negotiations is not the change in Hamas, he said, blaming Israel and its ally the United States for the failure to seal a deal. But he said said Sinwars selection was a sign the groups will had not been broken. Hamas remains steadfast in the battlefield and in politics, he said. The person leading today is the one who led the fighting for more than 305 days and is still steadfast in the field. Hamas allies Iran and Hezbollah issued statements praising Sinwars appointment. Hamas representative in Iran, Khaled Kaddoumi, called Sinwar a consensus choice popular among all factions and involved in the groups decision-making throughout, including in negotiations. In a voice message to the AP, he said Sinwar knows the political aspirations of the Palestinians for a state and the return of refugees but he is also a fierce fighter on the battlefield. (AP) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Sergei Shoigu, the Secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council, on August 6, Azernews ?reports. President Ilham Aliyev noted that Sergei Shoigus visit provided an excellent opportunity to discuss the agenda of bilateral relations and matters of mutual interest. The head of state emphasized the importance of regular contacts between Azerbaijan and Russia regarding the ongoing processes in the region. Hailing the successful development of the bilateral relations, the Azerbaijani President pointed to high-level and other contacts, the implementation of agreements and roadmaps signed between the two countries, and cooperation in security, transportation, energy, military-technical, and humanitarian areas. President Ilham Aliyev mentioned that discussions on these issues are frequently held with President Vladimir Putin. The head of state praised the active work of the intergovernmental commission and announced that its next meeting will be held in Baku soon. President Ilham Aliyev noted ongoing active contacts between various authorities of the two countries. The head of state expressed satisfaction with the successful implementation of decisions made between the political leadership of the two countries, particularly the provisions of the Declaration on Allied Interaction between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation. President Ilham Aliyev described Azerbaijan-Russia relations as exemplary for some neighboring states, highlighting their importance as a key security factor in the South Caucasus and beyond. Sergei Shoigu expressed gratitude for the sincere and warm reception given to the delegation, attributing it to the strong personal relationship between the heads of state of the two countries. Sergei Shoigu commended the successful development of relations between the two countries in regional security, military-technical, transportation, and economic areas. He stated that there are very important issues on the agenda of bilateral cooperation, which have been successfully addressed. He highlighted the implementation of the North-South corridor as a prime example, noting that significant progress has been made on a trilateral basis regarding this project. Sergei Shoigu expressed his country's support for the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia. The prospects for cooperation in the "3+3" format were discussed at the meeting. The meeting also touched upon Russias respect for the memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and the National Leaders significant role in the construction of the Baikal-Amur Mainline. The importance of President Ilham Aliyev's participation in the event to mark the 50th anniversary of the Baikal-Amur Mainline held in Moscow this April was also emphasized. One of the main agitators of the racist riots that have shaken the United Kingdom over the past week is Tommy Robinson, an anti-Muslim activist, serial spreader of disinformation, founder of ultra-nationalist organizations and who has been convicted several times for crimes such as harassing an immigrant minor and a journalist. But Robinson considers himself an honest informant. I feel like Im two days away from being sentenced to death in the UK, he told Alex Jones, a U.S. broadcaster who runs the far-right hoax channel InfoWars, after one of his court cases. Jones was ordered to pay $965 million to the families of the 20 children killed in the Sandy Hook massacre after self-servingly insisting the tragedy had been a hoax. On Sunday, Robinson went on InfoWars again to explain that the civil war in England has already begun, in Jones words. The expression civil war had been applied to the unrest in the United Kingdom a few hours earlier by Elon Musk, who assured on his own social network that such an outcome was inevitable. Jones and Robinson (whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon) have been stirring up xenophobic hatred on X, Musks platform, for a week since last Mondays multiple stabbing in Southport that claimed the lives of three girls, and of which a 17-year-old boy, Axel Rudakubana, a British citizen born in Cardiff into a family of refugees from Rwanda, has been accused. They are not the only ones. Moments after the tragedy was reported, the global machinery of lies, which parasitizes the permissiveness of the networks, was set in motion. And in the case of Musks they benefit from his favor, which has been harshly criticized by British Prime Minister Keir Starmers government. Theres no justification for comments like that, a Downing Street spokesperson said of the tycoons tweet. If youre inciting violence, it doesnt matter whether its online or offline. The government has announced it will hold a high-level meeting with the social media platforms. Disinformation specialists are well aware of how this response was orchestrated, tapping into a xenophobic seed that has been taking root for years. In the first hours after the multiple murder, major hoaxes accusing a Muslim immigrant of the attack reached 27 million views, according to specialist Marc Owen Jones. His analysis of how the disinformation spread shows a pattern that repeats itself over and again during these crises that take on global relevance, through the so-called trumpet of amplification: the first account that came up with an Arab-looking name as the suspect did not have many followers, but from there it jumped to a fake news website and, shortly after, the hoax influencers managed to reach millions of people. " Within 24 hours Dr Jones was able to assemble and publish a map of the key accounts which had spread disinformation. If Musk cared, his team could have done the same. We are entitled to think he doesnt care, said Alan Rusbridger, former editor of British newspaper The Guardian. The study of this episode helps to produce an X-ray of a growing phenomenon. Jones points out that the same sequences and the same actors have been present in previous disinformation campaigns, such as the stabbing of a woman in Australia or the hoax about the 15-minute city. And all those same accounts were spreading transphobic hoaxes against boxer Imane Khelif just a few days ago. They jump from one outburst of indignation to another until they provoke a permanent state of tension, in what hoax expert Renee DiResta calls the industrial complex of falsehoods robust networks that activate their machinery as soon as they see the opportunity. A perfect occasion is the information vacuum that occurs after a tragedy such as Southport: while the authorities remain silent (by protocol or ignorance), hoaxers fill the gap with self-serving speculation or outright lies. Liverpool Crown Court lifted reporting restrictions and made public the identity of the suspect in an effort to stop the spread of further disinformation. The complicity between Alex Jones and Tommy Robinson is only the tip of the iceberg formed by the two extremist agitators: half of the posts blaming a Muslim immigrant for the Southport attack came from the U.S., according to Channel 4s analysis. A coordinated copy-paste was unleashed by numerous accounts attempting to spread the lie and subsequent attacks against Starmer for describing the far-right protestors on UK streets as thugs. Each episode of hoax-spreading is a wave that authorities and media try to combat, but there is a common background tide churning the sea against the shore. The same photo with the same immigrant hoax that spread in the UK reached Spain just a few hours later through the Telegram channel of the agitator Alvise Perez, whose political formation, The Partys Over, gained three seats in the EU elections. At the demonstration called by Robinson after the massacre, attendees cheered him with shouts of Tommy for parliament. Alvise, who has also been convicted of harassing of a journalist, could gain a seat in the Spanish Congress, according to the latest CIS poll. The structures involved in the dissemination of these hoaxes have been taking advantage of their knowledge of the ecosystem of platforms and media for years to grease their machinery. This is not 2016, when the world was taken by surprise by the apparent sophistication of orchestrated campaigns on Facebook or Twitter to try to generate electoral overturns. And yet, the situation is getting worse: as soon as Musk acquired the platform, he cut 80% of Twitters workforce and swept away the teams in charge of ensuring the platforms security and reliability. After the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, of the 100 most successful conspiracy theory posts on X, only five contained community notes refuting the false claim and collectively they garnered more than 215 million views, according to the Center to Combat Digital Hate. In December 2023, Musk readmitted Alex Jones to X, despite his convictions for spreading damaging lies. In the days following the Southport attack, the mogul has responded on his platform to both Robinson and the EuropeInvasion, Visegrad24 and RadioGenoa accounts, known for disseminating racist and bigoted messages, in what is a proven way to skyrocket the visibility of accounts and discourses. In a June report for the United Nations, disinformation expert Claire Wardle warned of the various combinations of disinformation and hate speech that were becoming normalized on the networks because they can have very serious and immediate impacts, but also low-intensity ones as they cause severe damage over long periods of time. The report also warned: With hate speech, years of demonization and dehumanization can create the conditions under which genocide and related crimes are more likely to occur. Similarly, with disinformation, a steady drip of conspiratorial thinking [...] can undermine confidence in institutions. Wardle quoted linguist Susan Benesch, founder of the Dangerous Speech Project: As people come to accept a moderately dangerous message, they also become somewhat more likely to accept an even more dangerous one. Thus, the usual social barriers against violence erode as increasingly dangerous speech begins to saturate the social context. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Information about the arrest of Ismael El Mayo Zambada and Joaquin Guzman Lopez the son of notorious drug trafficker Joaquin El Chapo Guzman continues to arrive in dribs and drabs. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said on Tuesday that the most probable version of the events is that El Chapos son agreed to surrender with U.S. authorities. The United States government itself has acknowledged that they carried out a negotiation, at least, with one of the two, with Joaquin Guzman Lopez, that is what they informed us, said the president. It seems that it was an agreement. Lopez Obrador added that the pilot initially linked to the case does not seem to have participated in the arrest. He called for an end to the speculation while the U.S. government prepares to release of the full report on what happened. The surprise arrest of Zambada and Guzman Lopez two leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel occurred on July 25, after they landed in a small plane at the Santa Teresa airport in New Mexico. Mexican authorities requested a report from the U.S. Department of Justice, calling for information on what happened in Mexican territory, the flight plan of the aircraft and a detailed account of how the arrest occurred. U.S. law enforcement agencies were notified on several occasions that Joaquin Guzman Lopez was considering surrendering to U.S. authorities; however, he had never made that intention concrete, the Department of Justice stated two days after the arrest, in a seven-point document read by Mexican Secretary of Security Rosa Icela Rodriguez. Lopez Obrador has since pledged to make public the information provided by the Biden administration. Mexico has two open channels with its U.S. counterparts: one between the State Department and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the other between the Department of Justice and the Attorney Generals Office, which is independent of the executive. Apart from what was presented on July 29, there has been no official report, which has fueled speculation, especially of the arrest of Zambada, who is 76 years old. Three main hypotheses have been put forward following the arrest of El Mayo, one of the countrys most powerful crime bosses: firstly that he was kidnapped by Guzman Lopez, his godson, as his lawyer claims; secondly, that he was betrayed and boarded the plane after being tricked, as U.S. agencies initially leaked; and thirdly, that he turned himself in voluntarily, as a legal representative of the Guzman family in Mexico claimed. Zambada, whose health has deteriorated, has appeared twice before a court in the border city of El Paso and pleaded not guilty to the seven charges against him in Texas. Amid the conflicting accounts, there has been talk that Washington has been secretly in contact with El Mayo and Los Chapitos, the four heirs of El Chapo, for years. Joaquin Guzman Lopez during his arrest. CORTESIA All three theories have complex implications. Mexican authorities have opted for caution, avoiding statements that could increase tensions between the main factions of the Sinaloa Cartel, and comments about the countrys distrust in the White House on issues of security: the U.S. did not report the arrest of the drug traffickers until it happened. The arrest of El Mayo, a criminal leader with a vast network of contacts in politics, has raised the possibility that he will share information about how organized crime colludes with politicians and high-ranking officials in Mexico. Lopez Obrador declared last week that possible denunciations by Zambada will not harm his administration. In his last press conference, he reiterated the point and asked for complete transparency. Of course, if they are going to report on their ties with Mexican authorities, it helps to know how much support they gave to the authorities, to report who protected them, all this will help a lot, and it will also help with the agreements with U.S. agencies, he said. Almost two weeks after the arrest, there are few certainties about what happened, and questions continue to be raised. The pilot who was thought to have flown both drug traffickers appears to have had no involvement in the arrest: according to the latest reports, he was mistakenly implicated after a mix-up in immigration records. The plane apparently did not take off from Hermosillo, according to the governor of Sonora, Alfonso Durazo. Nothing is known about the flight plan either. The legal representatives of Zambada and El Chapos son in the United States deny that the two agreed to surrender, in direct contradiction to what both U.S. and Mexican authorities have claimed. On the ground, the capture of both drug traffickers a symbolic blow in the war on drugs does not seem to have had an impact on the drug corridors that cross the U.S.-Mexican border. Last week, the U.S. Border Patrol announced the largest seizure of fentanyl on record. Four million pills were seized in Arizona (around 450 kilos of drugs), a route supposedly controlled by the Sinaloa Cartel. Mr. Zambada is arrested, but if we do not address this [fentanyl] consumption and if we do not give young people options so that they dont become hooked [on drugs] and arent used in drug trafficking gangs, we are not going to face the problem, we have to address the root causes, said Lopez Obrador. The president said he hopes to have a broader picture of what happened before the trial begins in the U.S., which could take months or even years. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Within the Venezuelan opposition, everybody seems to be aware of the impact produced in national and international opinion by the publication in view of the lack of transparency of the ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) of the presidential election voting records from the campaign command of Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia and Maria Corina Machado, and the conviction of having inflicted a crushing electoral defeat on Chavismo (67% for the opposition candidate against 30% for Nicolas Maduro), in particularly unequal and atypical conditions, is widespread. But beyond these conclusions, the prevailing feeling is fear. Politicians are hermetic. Interviews have been cancelled. Members of the opposition leaders entourage have changed their telephone numbers. There is extreme caution in WhatsApp groups; Zoom conversations are scarce. Police harass citizens looking for data on their cell phones. Electoral witnesses and voting center officials are judicially harassed. At least two civil activists have been detained at the Maiquetia International Airport. There are many too many analysts and observers who prefer to keep their opinions for another time. Chavismos repression in the post-electoral week led both Urrutia and Machado to address the Armed Forces Monday in a joint communique, a text the former signed as president-elect of Venezuela and the latter as leader of the democratic forces of Venezuela. Do not repress the people, accompany them, they ask in the statement, in which they insist on the overwhelming victory of the opposition candidate and criticize the brutal offensive of the Maduro regime against democratic leaders, witnesses, polling station members and even ordinary citizens. The missive includes a call to the conscience of the military and the police to stand with the people and their own families and abandon the Maduro government. For his part, the Chavista leader has the arguments against him, but he objectively controls the levers of power. The Venezuelan president has announced that 2,000 detainees will be sent to maximum security prisons for protesting, and affirms that there will be more arrests: Enough of impunity, fascism is over, do not negotiate with fascists. The people have spoken, and they want peace, he declared. Maduro has the backing of the Armed Forces and has requested an injunction from the Electoral Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice, before which he has promised to submit the electoral paper vote tallies, which have not yet been published, in order to clarify his proclaimed victory. It is expected that the Supreme Court controlled by the PSUV will rule in his favor. Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado waves to supporters during a rally in Caracas, Venezuela, August 3, 2024. Matias Delacroix (AP) There is, therefore, a strange sensation of paralysis in Venezuela. Few people can forecast what might happen next. Maduro is on television constantly, appearing irritated, threatening, and ready to assert his own version of events. For the Venezuelan democratic movement, there is only one objective: that Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia is proclaimed President of the Republic on January 10 next year, says Carlos Blanco, an economist, political analyst and strategist for the opposition, as well as a close advisor to Machado. It is a process that, in Blancos opinion, is just beginning and that will face multiple obstacles on the path to an eventual negotiating space in which the international community will mediate. The analyst rules out a transition agreement that would take Machado out of the picture, as put forward in the negotiation promoted by Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil, as reported by EL PAIS. Maria Corina and Edmundo are a binomial. She is the popular engine; he is the candidate. There is no possibility of both acting separately, and even less so now. The idea of negotiating only with Edmundo, without Maria Corina being present, is absurd. These are maneuvers aimed at creating problems that the opposition has already solved in the past. Blanco does not consider it appropriate to wait for the institutions of the Venezuelan state to resolve the problem. The election has already taken place. The victory was achieved, and they do not want to recognize it. We have to mobilize; it is very important to maintain this enormous support from the international community to exert the necessary pressure. For electoral consultant and political analyst Carmen Beatriz Fernandez, Venezuela is entering uncharted territory. There is a lot of hope invested in what Lula, Gustavo Petro and Lopez Obrador can do, perhaps too much. Fernandez believes that the international perception of the oppositions victory is clear, but distinguishes between those nations that do not recognize Maduros reelection on the current terms such as some European countries and those that have expressly recognized Gonzalez Urrutias victory, as has been the case in the United States and other Latin American nations. That difference is not trivial, she notes. It marks different paths in the negotiations over a problem that is already Latin American. Those nations that limit themselves to questioning the result, without admitting the oppositions victory, could be working on the ground to invalidate the election, to seek an agreement to repeat it, or not to enforce the result, a path that is more comfortable for Maduro, she adds. Sociologist and analyst Tulio Hernandez considers that the consequence of the electoral outcome does not offer alternative conclusions: Venezuela has entered a dictatorship, and perhaps it is no longer the time to discuss political strategies. We have left behind the hegemonic authoritarian framework, and we have reached the zone of totalitarianism. An unprecedented process in these dimensions, he argues. There are almost no free media left; the government is breaking off diplomatic relations with Latin America; isolation is deepening, journalists are expelled; police officers ask for citizens phones, looking for political information. It is the most dangerous, the most serious, the saddest moment of these 25 years [of Chavismo]. The government has renounced any democratic mask. International pressure helps, it makes the problem visible, but, as we have seen, it does not solve it. The only thing left is to resist. I would start with these six words, to lend context: there is no rule of law. It is not easy to talk about what can be done. The political power in Venezuela is doing what it wants. The massive popular support that Gonzalez Urrutia has is fundamental, but not enough, says sociologist, academic and researcher Ramon Pinango of the Institute of Higher Studies in Administration. Professor Pinango maintains, however, that Maduros government is not showing signs of strength. It is not rhetoric to state this. Chavistas did not imagine that they would end up looking so bad. Many of them have doubts about the result. It is not easy for people to assimilate this reality. What has happened in the country affects everything one does. The consequences will be serious, and that is clear to many in power. We are taking it step by step. Here, it is necessary not to rush. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition KYODO NEWS - Aug 6, 2024 - 16:36 | Expo, All Canada's pavilion at the 2025 World Exposition may appear icy with its sharply angled white exterior, but the country aims to offer visitors a warm experience by showcasing its openness, cultural diversity and other attributes. The pavilion's exterior architecture represents a natural phenomenon seen in Canada called an "ice jam," which occurs when river ice melts and flows at the onset of spring, a long-awaited season in the country where winter temperatures can fall below minus 50 C. "Canada's theme is regeneration," Laurie Peters, commissioner general for Canada at the expo, said in a recent interview, explaining that the intention is partly to present a "renewed" image of her country beyond its well-known natural wonders such as Niagara Falls and the Rocky Mountains. "Many people know and love Canada for its nature and natural beauty...but they perhaps don't know as much about Canada's creativity and diversity and commitment to sustainability," she said. Canada, built by immigrants from around the world, has actively promoted inclusion and respect for diversity, with its multicultural society made up of three founding peoples -- aboriginal, French and British -- and a rich tapestry of other racial and ethnic groups. English and French are both used as Canada's official languages. In 1988, the country became the first in the world to enshrine its multiculturalism policy in legislation. During the expo, visitors will be offered an "analog experience" at a time when many things can be enjoyed virtually, Peters said, touching on music and other cultural performances and culinary programs that will bring chefs from Canada to serve local dishes and food ranging from lobster and beef to blueberries to maple syrup. Actual interactions with Canadians will also be a highlight, with some 30 young people recruited to come to the Asian country. They are expected to speak English, French and Japanese to welcome and guide the guests. The expo will be a "perfect extension" of the deep and longstanding relationship between Canada and Japan, Peters said. Canada is also a popular destination for Japanese students attending universities and other schools to go abroad for study, ranking second after the United States in fiscal 2022 in terms of the number of students at more than 6,700, according to data from the Japan Student Services Organization. Related coverage: (Pavilion)U.S. to immerse expo pavilion visitors in culture, space exhibits (Pavilion)South Korea's pavilion to feature giant screen for K-pop videos A guide to 2025 World Expo in Osaka By Toma Mochizuki, KYODO NEWS - Aug 6, 2024 - 22:30 | All, Japan A group of activists gathered in Hiroshima on Tuesday to denounce Israel being invited to the annual peace ceremony in the city commemorating the 79th anniversary of its atomic bombing by the United States and called for the freedom of Gaza in the Palestinian territory. The event, held at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the venue of the ceremony earlier in the day, was joined by crowds of people and remotely by Waleed Siam, representative of the Permanent General Mission of Palestine in Japan. "We express our horror, disappointment and frustration that the city of Hiroshima, a symbol of peace, has chosen to be hijacked by the oppressors and supporters, while excluding the victims," Siam said at the Citizens' Alternative Peace Memorial Ceremony for Palestine. "The invitation perpetuated our suffering in the absence of our voices, undermining the very principle of justice that Hiroshima stands for," he said. Masae Yuasa, a 61-year-old member of Hiroshima Palestine Vigil Community hosting the event, said they have been demonstrating by the Atomic Bomb Dome every day since Oct. 13. "Hiroshima is known for advocating for lasting world peace and nuclear nonproliferation, and its citizens have sought that ideal," she said. "I believe that the invitation was a betrayal of that struggle." Among the roughly 100 participants of the event, 73-year-old Mitsuko Yamaguchi, a Hiroshima native, said, "Inviting Israel to Hiroshima was disgraceful. It's as if we're accepting what's happening in Gaza." The event came after Israel attended the morning ceremony following an invitation from the Hiroshima city government. The western Japan city said it did not invite Palestine on the grounds it is not a state recognized by the Japanese government or a member of the United Nations. But the decision drew backlash as a double standard, with many pointing out Russia and Belarus had not received an invitation for a third straight year amid Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Hiroshima officials later said they plan to review the invitation rules for next year. In contrast, the Nagasaki city government, which will hold its own ceremony on Friday marking the 1945 atomic bombing of the city, did not invite Israel but invited Palestine to its annual event. Ambassador of Israel to Japan Gilad Cohen called the decision "regrettable" and "sends a wrong message to the world" in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. On Tuesday, British Ambassador to Japan Julia Longbottom said in Hiroshima she has decided not to attend the Nagasaki ceremony, as not inviting Israel could be seen as treating it as equivalent to Russia and Belarus, when Israel is exercising its right to self-defense. Israel began military operations in the Gaza Strip following a surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7 by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. But concerns have grown internationally over the deaths and injuries of many civilians and the humanitarian situation in the Palestinian enclave. Related coverage: Hiroshima urges shift from nuclear deterrence on 79th A-bomb anniv. Nagasaki mayor says Israel not invited to A-bomb peace ceremony Virtual reality tours show Hiroshima A-bomb reality as survivors age This photo taken on Aug. 3, 2024 shows destruction inside Tambasi health center in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State, Sudan. At least 23 people were killed and dozens injured in an artillery attack by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in El Fasher, a popular committee said on Saturday. Since May 10, fierce clashes have been raging between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF. (North Darfur State's Health Ministry/Handout via Xinhua) KHARTOUM, Aug. 3 (Xinhua) -- At least 23 people were killed and dozens injured in an artillery attack by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State, a popular committee said on Saturday. "Based on the available information so far, at least 23 citizens were killed and 60 others injured due to deliberate shelling by the RSF," the coordinating body of the resistance committees in El Fasher, a non-governmental group, said in a statement on its Facebook page. It added that with the continued targeting of health facilities in the state, the RSF on Saturday targeted the Tambasi health center in the southern part of El Fasher. Government authorities in El Fasher cannot be reached to get a comment, while the RSF has not yet commented on the incident. Since May 10, fierce clashes have been raging in El Fasher between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF. Sudan has been witnessing a deadly conflict between the SAF and the RSF since April 15, 2023, resulting in the loss of at least 16,650 lives. An estimated 10.7 million people are now internally displaced in Sudan, with approximately 2.2 million others seeking refuge in neighboring countries, according to the UN data released on Monday. This photo taken on Aug. 3, 2024 shows destruction inside Tambasi health center in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State, Sudan. At least 23 people were killed and dozens injured in an artillery attack by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in El Fasher, a popular committee said on Saturday. Since May 10, fierce clashes have been raging between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF. (North Darfur State's Health Ministry/Handout via Xinhua) This photo taken on Aug. 3, 2024 shows destruction inside Tambasi health center in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State, Sudan. At least 23 people were killed and dozens injured in an artillery attack by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in El Fasher, a popular committee said on Saturday. Since May 10, fierce clashes have been raging between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF. (North Darfur State's Health Ministry/Handout via Xinhua) CANBERRA, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- A plan by the Australian government to cap international student numbers in higher education could cost 14,000 jobs and billions of dollars, the peak body for universities has said. Universities Australia Chief Executive Luke Sheehy told a senate inquiry on Tuesday that the government is unfairly blaming international students for the nation's housing crisis. He described the proposed legislation to limit the number of international students that can be enrolled at universities and private training colleges from January 2025 as ministerial overreach to an unprecedented extent. The Australian Financial Review reported on Monday that universities and colleges will be allowed to enroll a maximum of 40 percent of their students from overseas for two years under the government plan. Sheehy told the inquiry that approval rates for higher education student visas have fallen 23 percent last year, the equivalent of 59,410 university students, costing the economy 4.3 billion Australian dollars (2.7 billion U.S. dollars) and putting 14,000 university jobs at risk. "The impact of having some 60,000 fewer international students arrive on our shores is significant," he said. "International students accounted for more than half of Australia's gross domestic product (GDP) growth last year, almost single-handedly saving the nation from recession," he said. Ministerial Direction 107 issued in December 2023 ordered the Department of Home Affairs to prioritize the visa applications of international students enrolling in the country's most reputable educational institutions. Sheehy said that the direction has undermined the efforts of the higher education sector to diversify the international student base and created significant financial anxiety and pain for universities. In a separate submission to the inquiry, Independent Higher Education Australia Chief Executive Peter Hendy said that international student caps would be a catastrophic event for the sector and cause many businesses to close down immediately. People carry the body of a victim killed in an Israeli raid during a funeral in the West Bank city of Tubas, on Aug. 6, 2024. Four Palestinians were killed and seven others injured by Israeli forces near the northern West Bank city of Tubas on Monday evening, the Palestinian Health Ministry said on Tuesday. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua) RAMALLAH, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Four Palestinians were killed and seven others injured by Israeli forces near the northern West Bank city of Tubas on Monday evening, the Palestinian Health Ministry said on Tuesday. The Ramallah-based Health Ministry identified the slain victims as one 14-year-old, two 19-year-olds and one 36-year-old. They were killed in the town of Aqaba, to the north of the Tubas city. The Israeli forces stormed the town and besieged one house, which led to the outbreak of confrontations with young men, during which the occupation soldiers fired live bullets, the Palestinian official news agency WAFA reported. The Israeli army has not commented on the incident yet. Amid the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank has also been witnessing rising tensions between the Israeli army and Palestinians. People carry bodies of victims killed in an Israeli raid during a funeral in the West Bank city of Tubas, on Aug. 6, 2024. Four Palestinians were killed and seven others injured by Israeli forces near the northern West Bank city of Tubas on Monday evening, the Palestinian Health Ministry said on Tuesday. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua) ULAN BATOR, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Two people were killed and one injured due to a lightning strike in western Mongolia, the country's National Emergency Agency (NEMA) reported on Tuesday. On Monday, the NEMA received a report that two 17-year-old boys lost their lives and a 25-year-old man was injured in a lightning strike while herding livestock in Myangad soum (administrative subdivision) of Khovd province. The injured individual is currently in critical condition at a local hospital. The emergency agency urged the public, particularly nomadic herders, to exercise heightened caution against potential risks, as thunderstorms are forecasted in certain parts of the country in the coming days. LONDON, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Eluned Morgan was confirmed as the first minister of Wales after a vote on Tuesday in the Senedd, the Welsh parliament. "It is the greatest pleasure and privilege of my life to stand before you as the first woman to become first minister of Wales," Morgan told her fellow Senedd members. "As I take up the mantle of leadership, I promise to honor [my predecessor's] achievements and add my own contributions to this legacy," she said. Morgan, 57, has held the position of health secretary in the Welsh government since 2021. She succeeded Vaughan Gething as the first minister of Wales after Gething announced his resignation in July following his loss in a vote of no confidence in his leadership. Since assuming office in late March, Gething had been under pressure over a controversial 200,000-pound (254,000-U.S. dollar) donation to his leadership campaign. The United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer offered Morgan his "heartfelt congratulations and support." "Eluned has today made history as the first ever woman to become first minister of Wales," Starmer said. The prime minister said his government will work "side by side" with the Labour government in Cardiff to deliver growth and "high-quality public services." Leyla Tariverdiyeva, Day.Az Choosing the wrong partner is a fraught problem not only on a personal level. Starting a family with the wrong person or being deceived by a business partner is nothing compared to what can happen to the interests of entire countries when their leaders bet on the wrong partner. Armenia has long and confidently surpassed all its neighbors in this matter and continues to increase the gap. It was recently reported that Armenia, in search of a replacement for Russia in its nuclear energy sector, has begun substantive consultations with the United States. It is hard to believe that the Americans will build nuclear power plants in Armenia. Americans never engage in such expensive adventures on the other side of the world unless it is of direct strategic interest to them. And Armenia, may Pashinyan forgive us, is not of strategic interest to Washington. Americans only form the environment and drive away outsiders with their presence. Why is the construction of a new nuclear power plant in Armenia an adventure? Because the country does not have the necessary potential to implement such projects. The first nuclear power plant was built in Soviet times at the expense of the Union budget, and not at the expense of loans. And it's not just about finances, but also logistics. The problem is that the equipment for the construction of nuclear reactors is delivered by rail. As noted earlier in an interview with Day.Anton Khlopkov, Director of the Center for Energy and Safety (Moscow), said that one of the difficulties in the construction of nuclear power plants is the delivery of large-sized equipment. In some countries, such projects cannot be implemented only because there is no appropriate infrastructure to accept the equipment. Often the infrastructure is created specifically for the implementation of a nuclear power plant project. Taking into account the difficulties with communications that Armenia has, the construction of a nuclear power plant will undoubtedly require working out agreements with neighboring states on how the required equipment will be delivered, Khlopkov said. Will America bother to provide logistics for the implementation of the Armenian project? Unlikely. The United States is promoting its know-how - small modular reactors (MMR). However, such projects have not yet been implemented either in the United States or in other countries. The American company NuScale Power Corp planned to begin and complete construction in Idaho by 2030 of the first U.S. installation consisting of six small modular rectors. The total capacity of the plant was supposed to be 462 megawatts, which is approximately the same as the capacity of the current reactor in Metsamor. However, last November, NuScale abandoned the $9.3 billion project for economic reasons. It should be noted that this is slightly less than the volume of the state budget of Armenia for 2024. So, Americans can be excluded from this formula for now. Negotiations with the Armenian side were most likely conducted not on the implementation of a specific project, but on what other options Yerevan has in order to abandon Rosatom's services. He is the main contractor dealing with the maintenance of the Armenian NPP. Nuclear fuel is also supplied to the station from Russia. In November 2022, Armenia signed a memorandum with Rosatom on the construction of a new power unit, but since then Yerevan has received moral support and promises from Western powers in exchange for abandoning projects with Russia. Until now, the country's nuclear power industry has been based on Russian technologies, which Armenia is presumptuously going to abandon, having neither the means, nor the personnel, nor the infrastructure for this. Yerevan has set a very difficult and expensive goal to reorient itself to Western nuclear technologies, although a small country with a small population could solve its energy issues in other ways - by abandoning nuclear energy and switching attention to other opportunities. Apparently, the neighbors themselves believed in their own stories that they had always been the scientific elite of the Union and they didn't care about anything. Well, well... Yerevan started with the Americans, and will end, as always, with the French. France constantly picks up Armenia after it is "dropped" by someone else. The topic of the USA has somehow imperceptibly disappeared from the pages of the Armenian media, and now it is reported that France may build a new power unit of the Armenian nuclear power plant instead of Russia. This issue was discussed during the visit to the plant last week by the inadequate French Ambassador to Armenia Olivier Decotigny and representatives of the French company Framatom, which is one of the world's largest manufacturers of equipment for nuclear power plants. As you know, France has 56 operating nuclear reactors and the 57th is now being launched. The EPR reactor (an improved version of the European pressurized water reactor), built in Flamanville, will be the most powerful in the world (1600 MW). The reactor, which has been under construction for 17 years, is now being phased in. The commissioning of the facility was delayed for 12 years due to many problems, and the cost of the project increased fourfold during this time to 13.2 billion euros. If the reactor in Armenia is built at the same pace and with the same pile of problems, the country will face a multi-year energy crisis after the shutdown of the existing nuclear power plant. And timing is not the biggest problem. The main problems will arise when the reactor is put into operation. It would be useful for the Armenian side to ask how the French reactors built in Finland and China are doing. In November last year, short-term short circuits occurred at the Finnish Olkiluoto-3 station during an emergency test, which led to a voltage drop. As a result, the nuclear power plant was automatically shut down. And this was the third emergency in a short time at the nuclear power plant built by the French company Areva (now Orano). In 2003, the Finnish authorities decided to build the third power unit of the NPP, which was launched back in the 80s. A French company was selected as the contractor, which submitted an attractive French development - EPR, which turned out to be incomplete, at the tender. The French did not tell the customers about this, hoping to finalize the project while the paperwork was going on. But it didn't work out. The reactor was launched only in 2021, and then with a sin in half, it reached its design capacity only in 2023. Over the years, the project documentation has been constantly revised, and the French themselves are so tired of it that they stopped tracking them. As a result, components, reactor components, and equipment often did not match and had to be returned to other countries for revision. As you can learn from the media, such a nuisance happened to the reactor vessel itself, which had to be returned... To Japan because he didn't fit the harness! The EPR reactor built by the French also created many problems in China. As reported in July 2021, the increase in the concentration of rare gases was caused by damage to several uranium rods inside the reactor. It was not about a radiation leak, however, the problem was serious and the operation of the Taishan reactor No. 1 had to be suspended due to leaky fuel rods. The Framatome reactor was built by the company whose representatives recently came to Armenia for a viewing. In France itself, things are not so good with nuclear reactors either. During the heat wave of the summer of 2022, many nuclear power plants had to be reduced in capacity due to the threat of an environmental disaster. The fact is that the water cooling the reactors is discharged into reservoirs, raising their temperature, which was already much higher than normal. The flora and fauna of the rivers of France, where the waters of nuclear reactors were discharged, was under threat. At that time, French environmentalists accused their country of not being in a hurry to meet the EU's green energy goals. Although, let's note, he shouts about it louder than many others. France is generally engaged in deception. Nuclear energy cannot be classified as a safe way to produce energy. It does not emit carbon into the atmosphere, but it carries many other threats. As Kazakh power engineer Asset Nauryzbayev said a couple of years ago at discussions on the prospects of nuclear energy in Kazakhstan, "there is a myth about a waste-free cycle - there is no waste-free cycle, radioactive isotopes do not go anywhere, they have been stored for thousands of years, and they need to be guarded by armed people. Humanity has invented cheaper, faster and safer ways to generate electricity. Nuclear energy is a dead-end branch of the development of civilization associated with the nuclear bomb." Maybe not everything is so gloomy, but the nuclear power plant is a constant source of threat. Like that gun hanging on the wall in the first act of the play-it will eventually go off. Unfortunately, on the scale of our small region, the nuclear power plant built by the French in Armenia will create problems not only for the Armenians themselves. Where are the guarantees that some fuel rods will not depressurize during operation or something else will not happen? The only consolation is that the French atom for Armenia is a purely political, not an economic project. It is possible that it will not come to the implementation of the project. Because politics is a capricious lady. TIANJIN, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Container ships flying flags of various countries are moored in the port of Binhai New Area in Tianjin, with cranes rapidly loading and unloading their cargo. Nearby, the Tianjin International Cruise Home Port has also been busy, having welcomed a total of 49 international cruise ships and accommodated 168,000 passengers in the first half of 2024. All of this confirms the busy and booming scene in Tianjin, the largest port city in northern China, amid the central government's call for "high-quality development." On July 22 this year, Chinese Premier Li Qiang urged Tianjin to undertake all reform tasks, foster high-standard opening-up initiatives, vigorously embark on innovation endeavors, and drive high-quality development through further comprehensively deepening reform. 2024 marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Tianjin Pilot Free Trade Zone (TPFTZ). Policies are to be carried out to further support the high-quality development of Tianjin's Binhai New Area, according to a recent State Council executive meeting. Tianjin, located 120 kilometers to the east of Beijing, is a witness of China's modern history. In 1860, British and French armies landed at and occupied Tianjin, and also forced the city to open up to foreign business. In 1900, the aggresive troops sent by then eight major countries again seized Tianjin and then stormed their way to Beijing to suppress the Boxer Uprising. Tianjin was the major headquarters of the Boxers, whose goal was to expel all foreigners from China. Foreigners established settlement areas in Tianjin. By the early 20th century, the city was transformed into an international metropolis, rivaling Shanghai in prosperity at that time. Today, the city has emerged as a significant destination for foreign investment. Last year, the actual use of foreign investment in the TPFTZ increased by 18 percent year on year. More than 290 Fortune 500 companies have invested in the city. Tianjin houses the sole Airbus civil aircraft final assembly line in Asia, where over 700 of the A320 series aircraft have been assembled for customers in Asia and Europe. Tianjin is also the world's second-largest aircraft leasing base, accounting for one-third of China's civil aviation leasing industry. The New York-based Juilliard School has set up a campus in the Tianjin Municipality. Ellen Sirower, a 25-year-old New Yorker pursuing her PhD degree, told reporters that she would undertake her summer internship at Tianjin Juilliard School to enhance her professional skills and gain a better understanding of China. "Over the past 40 years of reform and opening up, we have proactively seized the opportunities brought about by economic globalization," said Liang Yiming, vice director of the management committee of Tianjin's Binhai New Area, while adding that "now we have reached a new starting point for development." This enthusiasm for development in Tianjin reflects nationwide efforts to implement the requirements of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China to further deepen reforms comprehensively and achieve the goal of "building a socialist modernized strong country in all respects." Although Tianjin is one of China's four municipalities directly under the central government and a traditional industrial hub, its GDP ranks 24th among 31 provincial-level regions in the country, and many people believe that there is still a need for further development in Tianjin. The key task is to promote integrated development of technological and industrial innovation, create more effective platforms for scientific innovation, and bolster incentives for researchers and support for small and medium-sized tech firms. The new medical school laboratory at Tianjin University is engaged in the research of brain-computer interface technology. Researchers there have successfully enabled the human brain to directly control drones and send WeChat messages, and have created a "brain-like" system, realizing unmanned control of robots to perform tasks such as obstacle avoidance, tracking, grasping and more. The university's medical school is collaborating with scientists from multiple countries. "Our goal is to benefit patients, such as those with Alzheimer's disease and the partially-abled," said Liu Xiuyun, a professor and chief scientist of the medical school. Also in Tianjin, a new material provider has successfully produced high-standard welding materials for large LNG tanks, promoting domestic tech self-sufficiency in this field, while an AI-based company there is capable of folding solar arrays to one-tenth of their original size for more convenient transportation. Both of them joined the Tianjin Tiankai Higher Education Innovation Park last year -- a hub for more than 2,000 innovative companies, banks and university labs. Beijing-Tianjin Zhongguancun Science and Technology City, situated in the Baodi District of Tianjin, is another crucial platform for implementing the integrated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. Favorable policies for talent attraction and other incentives are important for industrial park development. Men Liping from Hebei Province recently relocated with her company from Beijing to Tianjin. "Based on the previous policy, I didn't meet the conditions to settle in Tianjin. The thought of relocating with my company and my children attending schools in different places lingered in my mind. Thankfully, the new policy not only resolved the issue of my children's enrollment in Tianjin but also facilitated my settlement here," Men said. "The revival of Tianjin has great significance. By unleashing the power of the market economy, we will achieve high-quality development," said Zhang Xueying, chairman of Tiankai Park. Actually . . . We wanted our blog community to take a peek because the note actually seems like sponsored junk. Nevertheless . . . Here's another aspect of the welcome wagon mostly from people who don't have to have direct contact with the people they're welcoming . . . As an influx of people is coming into the country for various reasons, it is apparent that the general public is misinformed on how much assistance immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers receive during their housing search. Currently, cities like Chicago and Los Angeles have been flooded with new migrants, but are currently incapable of accommodating them all . . . Because of this, the mayor of Kansas City has appeared to be open to welcoming these migrants into our city. While many in the public believe that migrants are given free handouts, such as better housing opportunities, this is nowhere near the reality. In fact, according to a page on a local law group website, one of the biggest difficulties for migrants is securing safe and affordable housingparticularly when they are unable to speak the language and obtain very low-paying jobs. It is now more crucial than ever to have a properly informed Kansas City, in order to be able to welcome these newcomers with open arms and help them in finding adequate housing to start their new lives Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Lots to cover for the late night & early morning as we check pop culture, community news and top headlines for the most dedicated denizens of our blog community. Check TKC news gathering . . . Urban Core Slice Of Life One person stabbed following disturbance on Kansas City bus The incident was reported just after 1 p.m. in the area of E. 31st Street and Troost Avenue. South Side Needs Room Hickman Mills United Neighbors demand widening of 99th Street Residents along the street and adjacent areas have complained the narrow unimproved street with no curbs or sidewalks is dangerous for motorists and pedestrians and have cited at least one fatal accident and several injury accidents as evidence for the need for improvements. Toy Train Turns Into Yet Another Development Scheme KC approves funding plan for $12.2M bike-pedestrian bridge to Berkley Riverfront - Kansas City Business Journal A new financing plan bridges a $10.9 million gap for a new bicycle and pedestrian route from the River Market to the Berkley Riverfront. Urban Arrangement Reshaped Emanuel Cleaver Boulevard receives Road Diet If you've driven past the Nelson Atkins Art Museum in the past week you've likely seen the road construction to Emanuel Cleaver II Boulevard. Self-Defeating Home Team Drops Another Game Royals bullpen implodes again as KC loses game to their Boston Wild Card foes 9-5 Not a good showing for the first game Diva Wings It Rihanna rocks racy winged costume for Crop Over Carnival in Barbados Rihanna looked like she was ready to take flight when she unveiled a sizzling winged costume that left little to the imagination during carnival celebrations in her native Barbados. Decision Day Tomorrow Kamala Harris to announce vice president pick before battleground states tour Vice President Kamala Harris was expected to announce her running mate by Tuesday after conducting interviews with top contenders at her Washington home over the weekend, two sources with knowledge of the matter said. Facts Support MAGA Decades Of Data Stands Behind Trump's Claims About Illegal Immigration And 'Black Jobs,' Experts Say Former President Donald Trump said in a Q&A last Wednesday that illegal immigrants were taking "black jobs," and he was right. Iran From Attack U.S. urges the Middle East to ease tensions to prevent a wider war Several military personnel were injured after a missile hit an Iraq base housing U.S. soldiers, and now the U.S. is stepping in, asking for "all parties" to ease tensions. NBC News' Ellison Barber has the latest on the Middle East as fears of a broader war increase. More Global Disputes Amid War Ukraine denies involvement in Mali attack, says cutting of ties 'short-sighted' Ukraine denies any involvement in northern Mali fighting that led to death of Malian soldiers and Wagner fighters in July Immigration & Rising Violence Outrage Across The Pond Why are there riots in the UK? Reasons for far-right violence The Southport attack has caused riots to spread across the UK, including Rotherham, Manchester, Liverpool and other UK cities. Actually, It's Not A Horrible Idea Given The Reason For Her Fame 'Creepy' Bill Maher shocks Hawk Tuah girl with awkward suggestion The comic made the lewd proposal during a recent episode of his Club Random podcast where he made an off-color suggestion about a show she could host. Internets Rhetoric For Everybody Our stories are free to republish. Here's why we'll never change that. Beacon articles have been republished 1,238 times by more than 100 outlets, bolstering local news coverage. Cool Down Coming Up . . . Cooler and less humid conditions are nearly here Conditions in Kansas City were hot again on Monday, but relief is on the way And this is the OPEN THREAD for right now. For the record . . . We think Melesa Johnson might be the favorite going into this contest even if polling information is limited. However, it's our hope that voters and supporters of Ms. Johnson base their decision on her qualifications and impressive career track record rather than racially charged rhetoric. Nevertheless . . . . This is fact . . . More than any other candidate in this contest, supporters of Melesa Johnson have hinged their arguments on racially charged argumentation. Stephanie Burton has disavowed racial politicking in her campaign. The only white dude in the contest, John Gromowsky has patiently answered questions and denied racially charged allegations against him. Republican contender Attorney Tracey Chappell has not made the topic of race any part of her campaign. Again . . . No matter how readers might feel about the topic, it is FACT that last minute racially charge allegations dominate the last minute statements from supporters of Ms. Johnson. Here is a top story that most TV news outlets are downplaying but the newspaper & KSHB have highlighted: The hiding of almost $300,000 of campaign funds, hiding where that money is coming from, said Katheryn Shields, former Jackson County executive. A Missouri Ethics Commission report shows the political action committee Stop Gun Violence Now has spent more than $333,000 in the county prosecutor race. However, Shields said the group only lists the source of around $35,000 of that money. This PAC has spent substantial amounts in support of John Gromowsky and Burton, evidently using Burton to split the Black vote, said Gwendolyn Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Kansas City. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Jackson County leaders question campaign funding tactics in prosecutor race Jackson County elected and community leaders are questioning campaign tactics related to funding in the race for county prosecutor. Is pro-Gromowsky PAC for Jackson County prosecutor trying to 'split the Black vote'? | Opinion Last-minute postcards showing up in Kansas City mailboxes boost Stephanie Burton's campaign while criticizing fellow Democrat Melesa Johnson. | Opinion Developing . . . YANGON, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar authorities have seized over 70,000 stimulant tablets in Myanmar, according to the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control (CCDAC) on Tuesday. Acting on a tip-off, anti-narcotics police searched a suspect at Aung Mingalar highway bus terminal in Mingaladon township of Yangon region on Monday and confiscated 60,000 pieces worth 60 million kyats (about 28,571 U.S. dollars) from paper boxes carried by the suspect. The authorities also confiscated an additional 12,000 stimulant tablets from the suspect's house in South Dagon township. The suspect was charged under the country's Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law. SINGAPORE, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry submitted an amendment bill to enhance power resilience to the Parliament for the first reading on Tuesday. The Energy Transition Measures and Other Amendments Bill introduces new guardrails for the electricity market, measures to strengthen regulations over the power sector, and the establishment of an energy transition fund. The government will establish a Future Energy Fund under the Energy Market Authority, with an initial injection of 5 billion Singapore dollars (3.8 billion U.S. dollars) to support investments for Singapore's energy transition, according to the bill. The bill noted that a Central Gas Entity will be established to aggregate the demand for gas from power generation companies and centralize gas procurement for the power sector. The bill will also empower the Energy Market Authority to implement power rationing during emergencies to maintain the stability of the power system. By Nicole Cooke, August 6, 2024 The view from KMOS tower, (courtesy KMOS PBS). KMOS PBS has been awarded a $880,000 grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to upgrade its equipment, which will provide enhanced emergency alerting for Central Missouri. KMOS was one of four stations to receive a grant during the CPBs latest funding announcement for the Next Generation Warning System grant program, funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. KMOS will use the funding to replace the 25-year-old antenna on its tower in Morgan County and add other new equipment at the station on the University of Central Missouri campus. A temporary antenna will be installed so viewers dont lose access to KMOS during the replacement process. The upgrades will make KMOS capable of broadcasting in ATSE 3.0 or NextGen TV. Josh Tomlinson, KMOS director of broadcasting services and general manager, said the new capabilities will open up a whole new world for what we do as broadcasters. We'll still provide our great service that we do with our live linear streams, and we'll also be able to explore new possibilities with datacasting, Tomlinson explained. We're looking to start partnering with the local emergency agencies and the state emergency agency to see if there are ways we can work with them. We want to make sure that we keep the P in public broadcasting. In 2022, FEMA selected CPB to establish and administer the NGWS grant program to help public media stations create a more secure public alerting system through upgraded equipment and training. The program prioritizes stations serving rural, tribal, and underserved communities. KMOS reaches about 1 million households in Central Missouri, and about 70% of viewers live in a community of 2,500 people or smaller. Tomlinson said about 15% of the viewing area is below the poverty level. Combined with the lack of broadband access in rural Missouri, obtaining high-speed internet can be a challenge for many people in the 38 counties KMOS serves. With this grant, we're able to ensure an uninterrupted broadcast of not only the things that KMOS puts out but also its emergency alert messaging the tornado warnings, thunderstorm warnings, tornado watches, thunderstorm watches, child abduction alerts, Tomlinson said. It's still all broadcast over the air and it still means those people are able to get those emergency alerts when they need them. This grant will allow us to continue and hopefully enhance that mission. Tomlinson said the recent grant will cap a five-year, $2 million project to rebuild the stations transmission chain, which included recommissioning the tower line, installing new tower lights and a new elevator controller, and other structural work. The project was funded entirely by grants and viewer donations. This grant brings the new antenna on, and all of that work will put us in a place where the next 20 years, our broadcast is as solid as it could be, Tomlinson said. It's just like having a brand new station. For more information about KMOS PBS, visit KMOS.org. The ballistic missiles that Russian forces used to attack Kyiv late on August 5 could be Russian or North Korean. Mykhailo Shamanov, a spokesperson for the Kyiv City Military Administration, said this on Ukrainian television, Ukrinform reports. "Yesterday, on August 5, at around 23:00, the enemy launched a missile attack against Kyiv and the [Kyiv] region. According to the Air Force, these were four Iskander-M ballistic missiles or North Korea's KM-23 missiles. The missiles were launched from the Voronezh region," Shamanov said. According to him, the Russian invaders later tried to attack the Kyiv region with Shahed strike drones. Shamanov also noted that as of the morning of August 6, there were no reports of damage to infrastructure or casualties in Kyiv. An explosion rocked Kharkiv as Russian invaders struck the central part of the city early on Tuesday, August 6. Kharkiv regional governor Oleh Syniehubov said this in a post on the Telegram messaging app, Ukrinform reports. "The occupiers hit the central part of the city of Kharkiv," the post reads. Syniehubov added that emergency services had rushed to the scene of the strike. Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov reported that a missile landed in a high-density residential area. A fire broke out at the point of impact. Reports of destruction and casualties are being clarified. | By Emily Nunez The human body contains at least 20,000 different proteins, often called the workhorses of the cell because of their role in keeping cells healthy. Each protein consists of a unique string of amino acids that affects its shape and function or dysfunction, in the case of proteins that assemble incorrectly, which can cause disease. By understanding and predicting the vast array of shapes a protein can take, scientists can design drugs that target specific proteins with specific roles in a cell. The hope is that technologies like Googles AlphaFold which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to predict the structure of proteins, DNA, and other biomolecules will speed up this daunting task and subsequently the development of potentially lifesaving medications. Researchers demonstrated that AlphaFold 2 (in red) is ineffective for drug design because of its clashes with the experimentally known pose of a widely used cancer drug (in green). Top left box: In contrast, the AF2RAVE method generates a structural model (in blue) that aligns accurately with the drug-bound experimental pose (in green). University of Maryland researchers are cautiously optimistic about this ambitious goal but say AlphaFold must be paired with a stronger foundation of physics to be successful. A method they developed, described in a paper published in the journal eLife, does just that. There are lots of uncured diseases, and we hope that AI can help us screen a large number of compounds to identify effective, nontoxic drugs in a cost-efficient manner, ultimately lowering health care costs for all, said the studys senior author, Pratyush Tiwary, PhD, a professor in the University of Maryland, College Parks (UMCP) Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Institute for Physical Science and Technology (IPST) and the University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing (UM-IHC). Our method will speed up drug discovery and enable personalized medicine for complex diseases. Their method, AlphaFold2-RAVE (AF2RAVE), fuses AlphaFolds strengths with computer simulations that are based on the laws of physics. It expands on an earlier technique called RAVE, designed by Tiwary and his students in 2018 to speed up molecular simulations that typically take a long time to process. AlphaFold excels at predicting the structure of proteins in their native or folded state, but it cannot predict proteins in a non-native state. Much like origami, proteins can fold into different shapes, with those folds affecting a proteins ability to carry out a task. In a non-native form, proteins can be unfolded or misfolded, which limits their function and can even lead to diseases like Alzheimers and Parkinsons. These non-native shapes are less predictable but still crucial to the development of new pharmaceuticals. Tiwary explained that AlphaFold overlooks non-native structures because it relies on information deposited in the Protein Data Bank, a database that primarily contains the structures of proteins in their native state. What AlphaFold did and this was a breakthrough was predict the most stable structure a protein can take, said Tiwary, who also holds the Millard and Lee Alexander Professorship in Chemical Physics at UMCP. What it cannot do is predict the other structures a protein can take. This is a fundamental problem with AI not just in chemistry, but across all disciplines because AI methods are only as good as their training database. To overcome this problem, Tiwary and his co-authors applied their RAVE method to AlphaFold 2, which was the most recent version of the technology before Google released AlphaFold 3 in May 2024. Our method begins with generating thousands of possible hypotheses, or protein structures, using AlphaFold 2, analogous to repeatedly querying an AI tool like ChatGPT for answers, Tiwary said. These hypothetical structures are then evaluated through high-resolution computer simulations based on the laws of physics, particularly thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. They used their method to generate possible native and non-native structures of three kinases, a type of protein that plays an important role in cell growth. Abnormal kinase activity can lead to the development of cancers, which partly explains why kinases are the second most important drug target second only to G protein-coupled receptors, a family of proteins with diverse functions. In a first, the researchers were able to predict the 3D structures that kinases could take and rank them thermodynamically, ultimately revealing the top two non-native structures out of 1,000 that drug candidates could potentially bind to. Thermodynamics is relevant to drug design because it dictates the likelihood that a particular protein shape will appear in nature, as well as how successfully a drug might bind to a protein, increasing its effectiveness. This evaluation determines the probability of each structure forming under room temperature and pressure, Tiwary said. As a result, the thousands of initial hypotheses are filtered down to a more manageable and likely set of structures. Their method could reduce the need for drug docking, a computational method that is used to determine how a drug molecule might bind to a particular protein. When the researchers compared AF2RAVEs list of drug candidates with existing drugs that are known to target a particular kinase shape, the researchers learned that their results matched more than 50 percent of the time a success rate that could not have been achieved without this method, Tiwary said. The success rate is almost nonexistent when using AlphaFold alone, Tiwary said. Without our approach, you would have to dock drugs to each of the 1,000 structures generated by AlphaFold 2. For some kinases, one out of 1,000 is a good drug candidate, but for others, none of the 1,000 are suitable. Although the researchers only applied their method to AlphaFold 2, Tiwary explained that the newest version of AlphaFold does not resolve the previous issues with non-native protein structures. By coupling AI with physics, the AF2RAVE method could usher in a new era of personalized therapy by identifying drugs that are tailored to patients unique genetic profiles. It also could lead to new drugs that bind to non-native proteins, which are trickier to develop. This discovery is just the beginning of what Tiwary and his colleagues will be able to accomplish with their AF2RAVE method. This study and what we are going to do next represents the best of UM-IHC and IPST, said Tiwary, who leads the therapeutic target discovery research center at UM-IHC. Its rigorous scientific computing with practical implications, and all of its grounded in statistical mechanics, which IPST has been a leader in for the last several decades. This intersection is an incredibly exciting place to be! Tiwary is working with UM-IHC co-executive director Bradley Maron, MD, and David Weber, PhD, at the Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research to apply AF2RAVE to hypertension and Alzheimers disease in hopes of identifying better treatments. By using AI to predict multiple protein configurations, this revolutionary AF2RAVE method has the potential to speed up drug innovation by identifying novel targets that determine the effect of protein function on cellular mechanisms underpinning disease, said Maron, who also is a professor of medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. We are on the verge of a new era that will usher in treatments targeting these complex protein folding processes. In addition, Tiwary and his team are working with National Cancer Institute researchers Gregoire Altan-Bonnet, Naomi Taylor, and John Schneekloth to apply these methods to pediatric immunotherapy and cancer. In these projects and future ones, Tiwary thinks that AI can ethically be applied to the fields of biophysics and biochemistry to better peoples lives. AI, especially when guided by physics, is here to stay, Tiwary said. AF2RAVE is not just another method this is something that is going to have an impact on peoples day-to-day lives. In addition to Tiwary, this study was led by IPST/UM-IHC postdoctoral associate Xinyu Gu and co-authored by biophysics PhD student Akashnathan Aranganathan. A reviewed preprint of their paper, Empowering AlphaFold2 for Protein Conformation Selective Drug Discovery with AlphaFold2-RAVE, was published in eLife on July 1. This research was supported by the National Institutes of Health (Award No. R35GM142719), the National Science Foundation, the NCI-UMD Partnership for Integrative Cancer Research, Montgomery County, Md., and the University of Maryland Strategic Partnership: MPowering the State. This article does not necessarily reflect the views of these organizations. 08/05/2024 By Ed Brennen For many students, one of the best things about heading off to college is experiencing a greater degree of independence. They learn how to manage a schedule, keep track of finances and make healthy choices. Chances are, they also learn how to take care of themselves when they are sick. At UMass Lowell, that means visiting Health Services, which is part of the Wellness Center on the third floor of University Crossing. Health Services provides students with free diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of illnesses, as well as immunizations and mental health referrals. Sarah Fischer is about to begin her first full academic year as director of Health Services. An experienced nurse practitioner who has also served as an adjunct faculty member at UMass Chan Medical School, Fischer joined UML in April. She had spent the previous six years as a nurse practitioner at Infectious Disease Associates and Travel Medicine in Merrimack, New Hampshire. Im just really excited to be here. It's a great place to be, and Health Services has a stellar team, says Fischer, who leads a team of two nurse practitioners, two registered nurses, a medical records manager and several support staff members. Image by Ed Brennen A native of Dartmouth, Massachusetts, Fischer earned a B.S. in biology from the University of New Hampshire and an M.S. in nursing from UMass Chan. She sat down to talk about her new role with Health Services. Q. Did you always want to pursue a career in health care? A. I always wanted to do something where I could help people. I thought about working in a lab after my undergrad, but it wasn't going to be fulfilling because I couldnt reach people as easily. So, I decided to go to nursing school and become a nurse practitioner. I like the philosophy of being a nurse. You get that experience at the bedside with patients. So, health care was always on my radar. Q. What drew you to the position at UML? A. I've been working as a nurse practitioner for 15 years, and I wanted to get into more of a leadership role and reach other parts of the community. This job checked all the boxes because I could continue my patient care role with students while also expanding my skill set as a leader. Q. How have you spent your first few months on the job? A. One of my goals is to collaborate with other departments to see how we can best meet the needs of students, so Ive been meeting with departments such as the International Students & Scholars Office, Residence Life and the (Solomont) School of Nursing. Ive been getting to know my colleagues in Student Affairs, Campus Recreation and within the Wellness Center. Ive done some talks with student-athletes and participated in family orientations. And Ive been getting input and feedback from staff, because there are a lot of things that we do really well, and there are some areas that we all want to improve on. Q. What type of challenges do you face? A. The major challenge for me is learning higher ed. I have the clinical knowledge, and that's one piece of my role, but the other piece is understanding higher ed and learning how to work together with other folks in the university to really improve the experience for students. But I love learning; I'm always asking questions. So, its an exciting challenge for me. Q. What should students know about Health Services, particularly if this is their first year on campus? A. Everyone at the university has the same goal: We want to help students succeed. In Health Services, we want to do whatever we can to help them get through their courses and feel their best. Coming to college and starting a new chapter in your life is challenging. You might not be sleeping great, or you might get sick for the first time away from home. But we have really caring and compassionate staff who will provide students with any resources that we have. One of the things I can already sense about UML is that this is a caring community. People are seen near destroyed vehicles following an Israeli raid in the West Bank city of Jenin, on Aug. 6, 2024. Ten Palestinians were killed and several others injured during Israeli army operations in the West Bank, the Palestinian Health Ministry said on Tuesday. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua) RAMALLAH, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Ten Palestinians were killed and several others injured during Israeli army operations in the West Bank, the Palestinian Health Ministry said on Tuesday. Five people were killed on Tuesday by the Israeli bombing of a vehicle in Jenin, northern West Bank, the Ramallah-based Health Ministry said in a brief statement. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society said in a press statement that the Israeli army prevented the crews from reaching the bombing site and opened fire on the ambulances before allowing them to reach the vehicles. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement on Tuesday that in two separate strikes, an Israeli Air Force aircraft struck armed "terrorist cells" during a "counterterrorism operation" in the area of Jenin. On Tuesday morning, a young man, identified as Muhammad Rizq Ibrahim Hamash, was killed by the Israeli forces' bullets near Bethlehem, southern West Bank, the ministry said in a separate statement. The young Palestinian man was killed by Israeli army bullets near a checkpoint west of Bethlehem. The Israeli side said he carried out a stabbing operation against a female soldier there, according to Palestinian security sources. Israeli state-owned Kan TV news reported that a female security force soldier was slightly injured in a stabbing attack at the tunnel checkpoint, noting that a Palestinian got off the bus that was stopped for inspection, reached the checkpoint, and ran towards the Israeli forces at the scene while holding a screwdriver, stabbing a female soldier from these forces. In a third statement by the ministry, four Palestinians were killed and seven others injured on Monday evening by Israeli forces' bullets in the town of Aqaba, north of Tubas, northern West Bank. The ministry identified the slain victims as one 14-year-old, two 19-year-old, and one 36-year-old. Israeli army forces stormed the town of Aqaba and surrounded a house, Palestinian security forces told Xinhua. Meanwhile, eyewitnesses reported that clashes erupted between local men and the forces, who responded by opening fire on them. Palestinian Presidential Spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudeineh said in a statement on Tuesday that the Israeli side's escalated measures in the West Bank are "a crossing of all red lines," according to the Palestinian official news agency WAFA. Amid the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank has also been witnessing rising tensions between the Israeli army and Palestinians. People are seen near destroyed vehicles following an Israeli raid in the West Bank city of Jenin, on Aug. 6, 2024. Ten Palestinians were killed and several others injured during Israeli army operations in the West Bank, the Palestinian Health Ministry said on Tuesday. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua) A woman is seen at a damaged building following an Israeli raid in the West Bank city of Jenin, on Aug. 6, 2024. Ten Palestinians were killed and several others injured during Israeli army operations in the West Bank, the Palestinian Health Ministry said on Tuesday. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua) A man is seen at a damaged building following an Israeli raid in the West Bank city of Jenin, on Aug. 6, 2024. Ten Palestinians were killed and several others injured during Israeli army operations in the West Bank, the Palestinian Health Ministry said on Tuesday. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua) People are seen at a damaged building following an Israeli raid in the West Bank city of Jenin, on Aug. 6, 2024. Ten Palestinians were killed and several others injured during Israeli army operations in the West Bank, the Palestinian Health Ministry said on Tuesday. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua) People mourn victims killed in an Israeli strike in the West Bank city of Jenin, on Aug. 6, 2024. Five people were killed on Tuesday by the Israeli bombing of a vehicle in Jenin, northern West Bank, the Ramallah-based Health Ministry said in a brief statement. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua) People carry bodies of victims killed in an Israeli strike in the West Bank city of Jenin, on Aug. 6, 2024. Five people were killed on Tuesday by the Israeli bombing of a vehicle in Jenin, northern West Bank, the Ramallah-based Health Ministry said in a brief statement. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua) COLOMBO, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka's navy arrested 22 Indian fishermen for poaching in the country's territorial waters on Monday, the navy said in a statement on Tuesday. The arrest was made during a special operation to chase away Indian trawlers poaching in the seas off Kudiramalai Point in the country's North Western Province, the navy said. A number of other Indian fishing vessels fled, the navy said. The navy also seized two trawlers that the Indians were traveling in, the statement said, adding that the trawlers and Indian fishermen would be handed over to the local authority for legal proceedings. Sri Lanka's navy conducts regular patrols and operations in its waters to curb illegal fishing practices of foreign fishing trawlers, the navy said. With the arrest, the navy has seized a total of 40 Indian poaching trawlers and arrested 287 Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan waters so far in 2024. Another higher learning institution has shuttered it's diversty, equity and inclusion (DEI) program in the Yellowhammer state ahead of a new controversial law banning such offices taking effect this October. The University of South Alabama will close thier DEI division and eliminate two staff positions, according to a statement from the schools spokesperson, Lace Crawford, obtained by AL.com. The president of the school, Jo Bonner, wrote in a letter to students on August 2 that the school will "use this moment to expand our engagement efforts on campus throughout the community and across the region through volunteerism, service learning and community-based research." USA is now the sixth school in the state to close it's DEI offices since Governor Kay Ivey signed the ban on "divisive concepts" in March, which takes effect on October 1. Jacksonville State, UA System Campuses, and Auburn University also disbanded their programs. Across the nation, universities are disbanding, rebranding or rethinking DEI programs in response to political pressure from Republicans, as well as passed or pending legislation in thier respective states. Last week, the University of Missouri announced it will dissolve its DEI division in a preemptive measure to mitigate political and budgetary risks. UM President Mun Choi explained the decision during a news conference on July 31, citing a series of policy changes at the university, including the removal of diversity hiring statements and the end of race-conscious scholarships. Several states --- including Florida, Utah, Texas, Alabama and Iowa --- have enacted legislation targeting DEI programs in public universities. The director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute believes that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who was tapped as Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate early Tuesday, is unlikely to significantly influence the upcoming election. Patrick Murray likened Walz's potential impact to that of Tim Kaine, Hillary Clinton's 2016 vice presidential pick, suggesting Walz will be a solid governing partner but won't sway many voters. "Strong Tim Kaine vibes from this pick. Solid governing partner material but will have no impact on voter choice (as opposed to a best case scenario "minimal bump" with some of the others). You social media bubble people are not who the Harris campaign needs to win this election," Patrick Murray posted on X. Clinton also weighed in on Walz's selection, expressing her support on the platform. "I'm thrilled to see Tim Walz join the Democratic ticket. From providing free meals for schoolkids to implementing paid family leave in Minnesota, he's about doing good in all the ways you can. He'll be an incredible partner to our first woman president. Let's go win this," the former secretary of state wrote. The Monmouth University Poll is rated one of the top polls in the country. No current polls are available to gauge Walz's potential effect on the election. BAHAWALPUR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) A pictorial exhibition was held at the Bahawalpur Arts Council in connection with Pakistan Independence Day. According to a press release issued here, the Nazaria-i-Pakistan Trust and Bahawalpur Arts Council jointly organized a pictorial exhibition to present pictureque landscapes and other pictures and art samples presenting stories about Yaum-e-Azadi Pakistan. A bookstall was also established at the exhibition place, besides showing documentary films to the visitors in that regard. Speaking on the occasion, Director of Bahawalpur Arts Council Mian Ateeq Ahmad said that Bahawalpur Arts Council had made arrangements to celebrate Pakistan Day with full zeal and fervor. Federal Minister for Law and Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar on Tuesday brushed aside the Opposition's accusations of amending the Elections Act 2017 against the law and clarified that the amendments were carried out as per the Constitution and the National Assembly Rules of Business ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) Federal Minister for Law and Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar on Tuesday brushed aside the Opposition's accusations of amending the Elections Act 2017 against the law and clarified that the amendments were carried out as per the Constitution and the National Assembly Rules of Business. Speaking in response to Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), Member National Assembly (MNA) Barrister Gohar Khan's accusations at the point of order during the fourth meeting of the eighth National Assembly session here, the Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister underscored that the amendments introduced in the Elections Act 2017 were as per the Constitutional scheme entailed in the Article 51 and 106 and the legal framework adopted by this House, after 102 meetings, with consensus in 2017. Tarar said the Opposition member had alleged that the Election Act (Second Amendment) Bill 2024 was not being sent to the Law and Justice standing committee of the Lower House of the Parliament. "As per rules and business, it is allocated to the standing committee of Parliamentary Affairs where SIC's MNA Ali Muhammad Khan and others deliberated on the matter. The amendment is as per the constitution and within the rules of business and code of conduct of the National Assembly," the Minister maintained. Earlier, Barrister Gohar Khan of SIC said the resolution on Kashmir has been unanimously approved by the House and the Opposition had accorded its full support for the Resolution to express solidarity with Shaheed Palestinian Leader Ismail Haniyeh. The Opposition also supported the treasury benches on other critical international and regional junctures, he added. He alleged that the treasury benches had trampled the legal and parliamentary laws to table the Elections Act amendment bill. Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), Senior MNA, Dr Farooq Sattar said the apex court's decision for the allotment of reserved seats had created conflict between the institutions of the Parliament and Judiciary. He accused that the amendments to Elections Act 2017's rules 66 and 106 had led to the worst defeat of the opposition and the treasury benches as both have failed to draw consensus to resolve national issues. However, the 250 million population facing the worst crises were left in the lurch amid a political crisis, whereas no efforts were being made to pull out the masses from the abyss of that crisis, he said. MNA Zulfiqar Bachani of Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians (PPPP) raised the serious negligence of the National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) during a road accident that occurred on M-9 Karachi-Hyderabad Motorway. He alleged that the bodies of the deceased were left bare after the incident and the NHMP was absent and neither its helpline responded to the calls after the incident to relocate the corpses of the dead. "They must be questioned for their negligence as they are unable to provide facilities on the motorway," he added. (@FahadShabbir) The British High Commission has been amongst the earliest organisations to provide relief interventions, following devastating floods in Chitral ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) The British High Commission has been amongst the earliest organisations to provide relief interventions, following devastating floods in Chitral. Between 29 July and August 3, Chitral suffered severe damages from torrential rains, flash floods and glacial lake outburst floods. 14 drinking water supply schemes, 15 jeep-able bridges, 55 irrigation channels, 9 link roads, 3 schools building, protection walls (4,000 feet), and 20 local shops have been fully/partially damaged, a news release said. The British High Commission used their existing presence in Chitral to respond to immediate needs through their partners, Concern Worldwide and the Agha Khan Foundation. They are supporting emergency relief and restoration of infrastructure and livelihoods. So far, the UK has funded essential items like kitchen sets, hygiene kits, water storage containers and more for around 300 families. Partners continue to work on immediate restoration of damaged drinking water systems, the restoration of essential irrigation channels, and debris removal to re-enable access and livelihoods, UK support is expected to benefit over 20,000 people in Chitral. The UK are also considering on longer-term recovery plans for affected areas, in close coordination with government counterparts and humanitarian partners. Charge dAffaires of the British High Commission, Andrew Dalgleish said: "The recent floods in Chitral are devastating. Lives and livelihoods have been destroyed. The UK is here to support Pakistan. These floods are a stark reminder that there is much more to be done to improve Pakistans climate resilience." Floods have already led to 141 deaths, 266 injuries and damage to over 1,000 houses in Pakistan this year. Climate change is a priority for the UK Government. During the devastating floods of 2022, the UK helped over 2.3 million people, dedicating a total of 39 million in UK aid. The British public mobilised, and raised 41.5m as part of the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal. Support included emergency cash assistance, shelter kits, nutritional support, learning kits and infrastructure repair. The UKs focus is on improving Pakistans climate resilience long-term, rather than purely responding to disasters. The UK has already helped 1.5 million people improve their resilience to extreme climate events, and aims to support a further 3 million people in the next 4-5 years. (@ChaudhryMAli88) The Centre for Development and Stability (CDS), a think tank, in collaboration with Sardar Bahadur Khan Womens University (SBK) Quetta, Balochistan conducted seminar titled China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: Assessing the Transformation of Vision into Reality with a Focus on Regional Connectivity, Innovation, and Security in Balochistan QUETTA, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) The Centre for Development and Stability (CDS), a think tank, in collaboration with Sardar Bahadur Khan Womens University (SBK) Quetta, Balochistan conducted seminar titled China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: Assessing the Transformation of Vision into Reality with a Focus on Regional Connectivity, Innovation, and Security in Balochistan. The seminar was held at Sardar Bahadur Khan Womens University Quetta, Balochistan. The attendees of this seminar include guest speakers, faculty members, students and other guests from various fields. The aim of this seminar was to bring together policymakers, experts, scholars, local youth representatives, and other stakeholders to exchange ideas and insights related to the economic, social, environmental, and geopolitical impacts of CPEC. Another important aspect of this seminar was to assess the potential role of CPEC in various sectors for promoting growth and development in Balochistan. This seminar was intended to explore opportunities for enhanced cooperation, sustainable development, and inclusive growth in the next phase of CPEC, specifically in Balochistan Esteemed guest speakers delivered their presentations and insights on the theme, enlightening the participants about the potential role of CPEC in various sectors for promoting growth and development in Balochistan and shed light on the opportunities for enhanced cooperation, sustainable development, and inclusive growth in the next phase of CPEC, with China, specifically in Balochistan. The guest speakers were Dr Sajida Noreen, Vice Chancellor of SBK; Meena Majeed Baloch, Member of Provincial Assembly, Balochistan; Aetzaz Ahmed Goraya, Deputy Inspector General Counter-Terrorism Department Balochistan; Brig (R) Asif Haroon Raja, Patron-in-Chief of CDS & Defense Analyst; and Dr. Irfan Ashraf, Director-General CDS & Anchorperson. While shedding light on the potential and opportunities of CPEC, Dr Noreen welcomed and appreciated the CDS effort of conducting awareness-based seminar with the collaboration of SBK on CPEC. Further, she said we should explore the pivotal contributions of our academic community in the development of CPEC, a cornerstone initiative for regional cooperation and economic development. Dr Ashraf, spoke on CPEC: Assessing the Transformation of Vision into Reality, and shed light on the achievement and completed projects of the under the auspices of CPEC. He further highlighted the role of Chinese company MRDL (a Chinese company working on Saindak copper-cum-gold project), CCCPK (China Chamber of Commerce in Pakistan), CECPK and MHD (operating company of the Duddar Lead-Zinc Mining Project) in completion of various projects in Balochistan. He also highlighted the projects in the second phase of CPEC such as green infrastructure, renewable energy and sustainable finance assistance. Ms Meena Majeed Baloch, MPA Balochistan also presented her insights on the weird situation of governance in Balochistan and said that the biggest problem is a bad governance. We need new model and upgraded system of governance for the Balochistan. Conflict and clashes are ignited by our own people which led to students abstaining from taking admission in other universities outside Balochistan. Due to this problematic and conflictual behaviour we have remained distant from development and success. She stated that in order to utilize the potential of youth we have announced 30,000 vacancies to train our youth in various skills. Further, Ms Baloch stated that CPEC project holds great significance for Balochistan and Pakistan. The development of Gawader port , Gawader international Airport, desalination plants in Gawader are the major projects under CPEC. Road connectivity has been improved in Balochistan. We cannot allow anyone to sabotage this project, which has the potential to create economic development and prosperity. It is crucial to eliminate this negative behavior and address the situation that is being created to damage this multi-million-dollar revenue generating project. Aetzaz Ahmed Goraya also highlighted the importance of CPEC and said that the success of CPEC project is incomplete without Balochistan success. The stable and secure Balochistan is very much important for the success of Pakistan and CPEC. In addition, Mr. Goraya highlighted the challenges to the Balochistan which in turn sabotaging the CPEC. KAMPALA, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) said Tuesday that it had captured a 4.5-meter-long crocodile that mauled several people at a landing site in Ntoroko District in the Western Region of the country. UWA said in a statement that the crocodile was captured from the shores of Lake Albert after terrorizing fishermen for some time. "This wild beast measuring 4.5 meters and weighing 500 kg was then transferred to its new home, far away from humans," said the government-run agency. "Between January 2023 and July 2024, it is reported that this 45-year-old crocodile had mauled two people, and killed one, while also severely injuring four others." UWA, however, warned residents "to remain vigilant as there could still be other crocodiles lurking in the waters." Several other attacks have also been reported, especially in districts neighboring water bodies. In 2020, crocodiles were reported to have eaten seven people in Uganda's eastern district of Buyende and the northern district of Apac. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Chairman WAPDA, Engr Lt Gen Sajjad Ghani (Retd) accompanied by a World Bank team headed by Advisor Masood Ahmed and Task Team Leader Gautum Gunjan on Tuesday visited Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project and reviewed construction progress on key components ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) Chairman WAPDA, Engr Lt Gen Sajjad Ghani (Retd) accompanied by a World Bank team headed by Advisor Masood Ahmed and Task Team Leader Gautum Gunjan on Tuesday visited Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project and reviewed construction progress on key components. After detailed visit of the various sites, the Chairman also presided over a progress review meeting at the Project Office, said a press release. The Project Management briefed the Chairman and the World Bank team about the progress achieved so far on seven key sites of the Project, which included intake, tunnel, penstock and outlet, power house, tail race culvert, tail race canal and switchyard. Resource deployment, timelines and implementation plan for completion of the Project were also discussed during the meeting. It was briefed that electricity generation from the Project is likely to commence in 2025-26. Addressing the meeting, the Chairman emphasized upon timely completion of the Project to cope with the increasing demand of energy in the country through green, clean and most affordable electricity. He urged the Consultants and the Contractors to maximize their efforts so that the Project could be completed by 2025-26. Member (Power) WAPDA, GM Tarbela Dam Project, PD Tarbela 5th Extension Hydopower Project and representatives of the Consultants and the Contractors were also present on the occasion. WAPDA is constructing Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project on Tunnel No. 5 of Tarbela Dam. World Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank are providing financial assistance for the Project to the tune of US$ 390 million and US$ 300 million respectively. Cumulative generation capacity of the Project stands at 1530 MW with three generating units of 510 MW each. The Project will provide 1.347 billion units of environment-friendly and low-cost hydel electricity to the National Grid every year. With completion of Tarbela 5th Extension, installed capacity at Tarbela Dam will increase from 4888 MW to 6418 MW. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad Zainul Abideen Memon chaired a meeting regarding the Independence Day celebrations on August 14. The meeting was attended by district officers from various departments HYDERABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad Zainul Abideen Memon chaired a meeting regarding the Independence Day celebrations on August 14. The meeting was attended by district officers from various departments. According to a handout issued on Tuesday, addressing the meeting, DC Memon stated that while Hyderabad hosts two separate events every year, but this year there will be an effort to organize a joint celebration to deliver a unified positive message to the public. He announced that the joint event will be held at the Circuit House, and arrangements in this regard will be made for both indoor and outdoor settings, taking the weather into account, and the Circuit House will be decorated accordingly. He said that the Mayor, Commissioner and DIG along with all stakeholders will be invited to attend the event, and awards will be presented to students who achieved top positions in the board exams during the event. The DC directed district education officers to arrange for children to deliver speeches in Sindhi, urdu, and English. He also instructed police officers to organize a police parade and start rehearsals for it. Furthermore, the police were instructed to take action against one-wheeling on the night of 13th August. On this occasion, all assistant commissioners were also directed to decorate their offices. Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan has announced to set up Overseas Facilitation Desk at the Governors House to help overseas Pakistanis in resolution of their problems without hassle LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan has announced to set up Overseas Facilitation Desk at the Governors House to help overseas Pakistanis in resolution of their problems without hassle. During a meeting with a delegation of overseas Pakistani investors from various European countries including Italy, France and the United Kingdom led by Pakistan Business Forum Chairman Sardar Zahoor Iqbal at the Governors House here on Tuesday, he reassured the businessmen to play his due role in facilitating the overseas Pakistani investors. I will propose to the Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to set up a desk in various provincial departments so that the problems of overseas Pakistanis are solved on priority basis, Governor Punjab Saleem Haider Khan added. Chairman PHEC Professor Dr Shahid Munir, Secretary Higher Education Dr Farrukh Naveed, Secretary school Education Department Ehtsham Anwar and Principal Secretary to Punjab Governor Captain (retd) Saqib Zafar were also present on this occasion. Overseas Pakistani businessmen submitted various suggestions to the Governor Punjab regarding investing in Pakistan and informed about the problems faced by them. Collaboration of Pakistani universities with European universities was also discussed with the cooperation of overseas Pakistani businessmen. Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan further said that overseas Pakistanis are playing an important role in strengthening the country's economy by sending remittances. He appreciated the determination of the overseas Pakistani business community to invest in the country in the education, agriculture, IT and tourism sectors among others. Secretary School Education Department Ehtesham Anwar said that they are coming up with a scheme to establish schools to reduce the number of out-of-school children in the country by setting up schools with the support of overseas Pakistanis. Chairman Pakistan Business Forum, Sardar Zahoor Iqbal said that our main objective is to highlight the positive image of Pakistan in the whole world, adding that the delegation of Pakistan Business Forum has come to Pakistan on the invitation of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and they have had important meetings regarding investment in Pakistan. He said this is the beginning, adding that MoUs for investment in various sectors will be signed in October and November. He further said that the overseas business community is committed to supporting country's economy and the betterment of the country. Haji Muhammad Aslam Chaudhry, Yasir Khan, Chaudhry Salman Aslam, Shahid Ajmal, Dr. Imran, Chaudhry Tahir, Seth Mehboob Sultan, Chaudhry Naeem, Mahmood Rahi, Samar Sultan, Akram Javed, Yasir Qadeer, Ibrahim Dar, Farooq Jat and others were present on this occasion. An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Tuesday confirmed the interim bail of 15 accused, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Nadeem Abbas Bara, in the Jinnah House attack case stemming from the May 9 riots LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Tuesday confirmed the interim bail of 15 accused, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Nadeem Abbas Bara, in the Jinnah House attack case stemming from the May 9 riots. The court ordered the accused to furnish surety bonds of Rs 200,000 each to avail of the relief. ATC Judge Khalid Arshad heard the bail petitions filed by the accused. While confirming the bail, the court observed that the accused were neither named in the FIR nor in supplementary statements. If the police find any evidence against them, it will be reviewed during the trial. The court confirmed the interim bail of Nadeem Abbas Bara, Imtiaz Mehmood, Ali Asghar, Asadullah, Hammad Ali, Humaira Bibi, Wali Khan, Zulqarnain, Muhammad Ishtiaq Khan, Urooj Fatima, and others. The Sarwar Road police had registered a case against PTI leaders and workers on charges of attacking Jinnah House (also known as the residence of the Corps Commander Lahore) during the May 9 riots. Peace Ambassador Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad on Tuesday said that the entire Pakistani nation stands with Pakistan's forces and security agencies in order to maintain durable peace in the country QUETTA, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) Peace Ambassador Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad on Tuesday said that the entire Pakistani nation stands with Pakistan's forces and security agencies in order to maintain durable peace in the country. He said that our beloved country Pakistan is the blessing of Allah Almighty, the protection of which is the common responsibility of all of us. He expressed these views while addressing at "Pakistan Conference of Islamic Scholars and Stability". regarding the National Unity, Inter-ethnic Harmony, Respect for Humanity, Violence-Free Society and Message of Pakistan held in the provincial capital Quetta with the special efforts of Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti. The conference was presided over by Khateeb and Imam Badshahhi Masjid Lahore, Chairman of the Central Sighting of the Crescent Committee of Pakistan. The meeting was attended by Secretary Religious Affairs and Awqaf Balochistan Muhammad Ishaq Jamali, Allama Zubair Ahmad Zaheer, Maulana Muhammad Tayyab Qureshi, Mufti Muhammad Ramzan Sialvi, Allama Mir Asif Akbar Qadri, Pir Ali Raza Bukhari, Maulana Maqsood Ahmad Tauhidi, Maulana Hussain Ahmed, Allama Athar Hussain Mashhaddi, Muhammad Rashid Turabi, Qari Rafiuddin Sialvi, Syed Anwarul Hassan Shah, Qari Wasimullah Amin, Maulana Anwarul Haqqani, Qari Shahabuddin Mufti Qari Mehrullah, Mufti Muhammad Rozi Khan Badezai, Dr Attaur Rehman, Maulana Anwarul Haqqani, Allama Bashar Mousavi, Mufti Muhammad Yousuf Kashmiri and other Ulemas. Addressing at the conference, Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad said that today in Balochistan, the scholars and an eminent scholars from the country were gathered with message of unity and love to the nation. He said that promotion of national unity, unity, consensus and the message of Pakistan in the country was the most important need of the hour. Today, the entire nation, the scholars of Pakistan, are standing by the side of their brave armed forces for the development and security of the country, he said. Maulana Azad said that he has given a message of unity and love to Balochistan, people of Balochistan were proud, honest and patriotic, the love and sincerity of the people of Balochistan was exemplary. He thanked to Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti and Secretary Department of Religious Affairs and Awqaf Balochistan saying that whose efforts made it possible to organize such a grand conference. In his address to the conference, Secretary of Religious Affairs and Awqaf Balochistan Muhammad Ishaq Jamali said that the message of islam was peace, love and tolerance, the great name of Islam, unity and national unity would reach every home, Islam teaches us peace, brotherhood and respect, Islam teaches humanity. We should all play this great role for the establishment of a society free from violence and respect for humanity, he said. He said that Ulemas and scholars were giving the message of peace and love to the entire Pakistani nation saying that millions of people sacrificed their lives to get Pakistan. Maulana Azad said that Pakistan was united, the evil agenda of hostile forces would not be allowed to succeed in their notorious aims. We can defeat the enemy only by becoming a united nation, Pakistan was achieved on the basis of Islam and Kalima Tayyaba, he said. He said that today's Pakistan needed unity, stability, inter-ethnic and inter-religious harmony more than ever. The message of the Stability Pakistan Conference is the greatest statement of faith in the homeland, which has saved the people of Pakistan from extremism, rebellion, suicide attacks and sectarianism, he said. He said that the love and sincerity of the people of Balochistan was exemplary, today, the entire nation including the Ulema was striving for the development and security of Pakistan with its brave armed forces and security agencies. Addressing the conference, other speakers said that we would make every sacrifice for the security and safety of the country. We will not allow the enemy to succeed, we are all Pakistanis and we are all united under the shadow of this flag, they noted. They said that Pakistan was in strong hands and would always remain united. At the end of the conference, a special prayer was offered for the unity of the world of Islam, the protection and development of Kashmir and Palestine, the freedom of Pakistan and especially for peace and prosperity in Balochistan. In the conference, while paying tribute to the martyrdom and sacrifice of Ismail Haniyeh, the head of the political wing of Hamas, they prayed to Allah to accept his great sacrifice and make it the harbinger of the freedom of Palestine. CHICHAWATNI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) The police on Tuesday arrested two members of a motorcycle theft gang and recovered two stolen bikes from their possession in Chichawatani. According to the police, the arrested individuals were part of a group that had been stealing motorcycles from various areas. During the investigation, the police were able to track down the suspects and take them into custody. The recovered motorcycles have been identified as stolen property and cases have been registered against the arrested individuals. The police spokesperson stated that further raids are underway to apprehend the remaining accomplices of the accused. (@ChaudhryMAli88) ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) The experts at the book launch event of Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI) on Tuesday underscored the need to ensure political ownership and economic integration amid rule of law in the newly merged tribal districts of ex-FATA to stem Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) resurgence. The IPRI hosted the book launch of Recrudescence of TTP Violence Its causes and possible remedies which is the first of its kind research-based publication that probed the phenomenon of TTP and its recurrence in the tribal districts through ground-based surveys and interviews of local stakeholders hailing from different walks of life which were co-authored by IPRI Research Team under the leadership of Director, Research, IPRI, Dr Raashid Walid Janjua. In his opening remarks, President IPRI, Ambassador, Dr Raza Muhammad said Pakistan is facing continued violence and terrorism due to its partnership in the war on terror. This book started eight months back peer headed by Dr Raashid Walid Janjua involved interviews and surveys on the ground for quality evidence through stakeholder and community engagement, he added. Speaking on the occasion, Director Research, IPRI, Dr Raashid Walid Janjua explained that recrudescence meant the thing that was coming up again and again but this rise of TTP bedevilled Pakistan. The armed forces, he said conducted many military operations from Al Meezan to Zarb-e-Azb that helped recoup 1,600 km area and kill 3,500 hardcore terrorists. The motivation behind the book was the fact that the terrorists attacks had reduced from 1,214 in 2023 to 201 so far, he said. The book has six chapters that explore different facets of the crisis as post 2021 a great change in the social environment of ex-FATA areas was witnessed, he added. Dr Raashid noted that the book was less academic and more field-oriented easy to comprehend for everyone. The methodology was based on interviews, field surveys and focused group discussion with all stakeholders including the local populace, youth, KP civil administration, Police, Peshawar Corps and Frontier Corps (FC). The book, he said had identified three main causes of TTP resurgence mainly the vacuum created in the absence of administration, police and judiciary. However, these tribal territories were being managed under the FCR laws, traditions, Masharans or Malaks (tribal leaders), shariah law and Muftians (religious scholars), he added. He noted that practically constitutional merger had taken place but financially it did not happen, whereas lack of long-term vision and consistent policies about security integration and development of merged districts, lack of livelihoods, infrastructure development and economic integration of merged districts with other parts of the country paved the way for TTP filling in the vacuum in merged districts. He mentioned that some 86 coalmines in Darra Adam Khel had brought a decline in illicit arms sales which was the mainstay of that community to only a 10% share of the total income of that area that helped extend complete livelihood opportunities to the local populace and curbed any possibility of terrorism resurgence. The altered environment of Afghanistan and proxy warfare along with ecosystem of crime and illegal activities provided a breeding ground for TTP that was splintered but it is essential to contain it, he said. Dr Janjua mentioned that the field survey helped gauge the perception of the local population, where over half of the respondents claimed that no substantial reforms were made in the newly merged districts and a large percentage expressed dissatisfaction over police and local judiciary, and the development progress. In conclusion, he said the book recommended a whole national approach starting from political ownership, policy consistency, and public support to win the trust of the local masses against the terrorism resurgence. Pakistan should keep engaging with the Afghan Interim Government to convince them to deny sanctuaries to TTP and ensure the proactive role of civil government in strengthening institutions and proper budgetary allocations for the development of the newly merged districts, he added. Special Representative for Afghanistan, Ambassador Asif Durrani in his special remarks said that dealing with tribal belt technically involved Afghanistan as post 1979 Afghan War three generations of Afghanistan had been raised facing conflict, where Pakistan lost its key human capital. The TTP amid resurgence got recruits by two conditions placed before tribal masses that either they pay money for their operations or give two mujahideen. However, the families were compelled to surrender two recruits. TTP is recurring either the correct remedy was not applied on time or properly administered but the rule of law is the core to all remedies to social issues, he added. Ambassador Durrani mentioned that the government of Pakistan negotiated with TTP on three conditions to surrender, accept the Constitution and appear before the court of law for heinous crimes which they all rejected. The study in the book revealed breaches of the rule of law in different instances and indicated the key areas where it could be applied for desired results, he added. The book launch was followed by an active question hour session participated by media, researchers and members from different walks of life. (@FahadShabbir) The Federal Flood Commission (FFC) has said that presently, River Indus is experiencing medium flood in Chashma-Taunsa reach whereas it is in low flood at three locations (Tarbela-Kalabagh & Guddu) ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) The Federal Flood Commission (FFC) has said that presently, River Indus is experiencing medium flood in Chashma-Taunsa reach whereas it is in low flood at three locations (Tarbela-Kalabagh & Guddu). According to daily FFC report on Tuesday River Kabul is also flowing in low flood both at Warsak & Nowshera. The other major rivers in the Indus River System, including Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej are flowing with normal discharges. The present Combined Live Storage of Tarbela, Mangla & Chashma is 9.718 MAF against a total live storage capacity of 13.354 MAF. Tarbela Reservoir has attained water level of 1537.00 feet i.e. 13.00 feet below its Maximum Conservation Level (MCL) of 1550 feet whereas Mangla Reservoir is at an elevation of 1206.10 feet (45.90 feet below its MCL: 1242.00 feet). In view of higher water levels, Tarbela Dam Flood Management Committee is advised to remain vigilant and ensure filling of reservoir as per approved SOPs and dam safety guidelines. According to the Flood Forecasting Division (FFD), Lahore, the Well-Marked Low over North Madhya Pradesh (India) has moved to Northwestern Rajasthan (India) and adjoining Pakistan. Also, trough of Westerly Wave persists over Northern Pakistan with a Seasonal Low over Northwestern Balochistan. At present, moderate moist currents from both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal are penetrating into central and upper parts of the country up to 5000 feet. The FFD has forecast scattered thunderstorm rain of Moderate Intensity over Islamabad, Punjab (Rawalpindi Division), Eastern Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa including the upper catchments of rivers Jhelum, Indus and Kabul for the next 24 hours. Also isolated thunderstorm rainfall of Moderate Intensity may occur over Punjab (Multan, D.G.Khan, Faisalabad, Sargodha and Sahiwal Divisions) and Balochistan during the same period besides scattered to widespread thunderstorm rain of Moderate Intensity with isolated Heavy to Very Heavy Falls over Punjab (Gujranwala, Lahore and Bahawalpur Divisions), upper catchments of Rivers Sutlej, Ravi and Chenab. As a result, medium to high flows are anticipated in river Chenab and its tributaries including nullahs of rivers Ravi and Chenab. Flows in river Sutlej will depend on releases from India. (@FahadShabbir) The Senate Standing Committee on Power emphasized the importance of resolving the issues with Independent Power Producers (IPPs), which have become a significant burden for the nation ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) The Senate Standing Committee on Power emphasized the importance of resolving the issues with Independent Power Producers (IPPs), which have become a significant burden for the nation. The meeting presided over by Senator Mohsin Aziz was held on Tuesday in Parliament House, highlighted that the Primary problem is overpricing, making electricity unaffordable for the average person. The chairman suggested that ministry officials conduct a comparative analysis of electricity tariffs in neighboring and regional countries. He also pointed out the need to consider factors such as heat efficiency, evacuation responsibility, capacity charges, and the performance of underutilized plants. The Minister Power Division, Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari assured the committee that the requested information would be provided transparently. Furthermore, the Secretary (Power Division), Rashid Mahmood Langrial briefed on power sector reforms, electricity supply and demand, generation capacity, the complexities of capacity planning, and staggering/abolishment of committed power plants. Senator Shibli Faraz added that the Power Ministry needs to plan for seasonal variations and avoid repeating the same records, as the current state of electricity is neither cheap nor reliable in the country. The secretary acknowledged the inquiries and highlighted the underlying drivers behind these issues. Similarly, the committee chair engaged in a detailed discussion on capacity charges and emphasized the need to end this cycle of overcharges. During the discussion on consumer bills, Senator Shibli Faraz questioned the Ministry about ways to reduce electricity bills, a concrete plan to cut down circular debt, the past 10-year loan status, and the reforms undertaken by the Ministry. The Chairman, Senator Mohsin Aziz emphasized that the issue of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) is long overdue. He highlighted that the current situation has left people struggling with unaffordable electricity, industries considering ceasing operations, and the masses suffering from unemployment. Additionally, electricity theft has become a significant problem for the country. The Chairman requested explanations on the areas where electricity theft is prevalent. The Minister stated that electricity theft varies by area and is influenced by the level of governance. The Secretary of the Power Division added that electricity theft has, in some communities, become a sub-culture, exacerbating the problem. Moreover, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO) provided a briefing on feeder-wise scheduled and unscheduled load shedding. He specifically mentioned that MEPCO covers 8% of all Punjab. Following this, the CEO of the Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO) delivered a similar briefing. The committee inquired about power theft in southern Punjab. The Minister (Power Division) informed that more feeders are located in areas such as Rajanpur, D.G. Khan, and Katcha Areas, including Kasur, where losses are the highest. The committee members engaged in a discussion about area-wise load shedding, overbilling, and the status of complaints. The Minister of Energy (Power Division) also highlighted the functionality of the Roshan App, which allows users to accurately retrieve the usage of individual electric meters. Additionally, officials from the concerned departments provided a briefing on the total number of regular, contractual, and daily wage employees, along with their pay scales. The meeting was attended by Senator Shibli Faraz, Senator Mir Dostain Khan Domki, Senator Taj Haider, Senator Kazim Ali Shah, Senator Muhammad Aslam Abro, Senator Rahat Jamali, Senator Manzoor Ahmed, Senator Hidayatullah Khan, Minister for Energy (Power Division), The Secretary of Power Division, Additional Secretary (Power Division), and senior officials from concerned departments. KHANEWAL, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) A municipal employee in Khanewal was shot and killed by unidentified individuals on Tuesday. According to the police, the incident took place when an employee named Zafar Gujjar, who worked in the MAP branch, was going to the municipality from Hakimabad. Near a forested house in the Civil Line area, unidentified individuals opened fire on him. Upon receiving the information, Rescue 1122 personnel arrived at the scene and provided first aid to the critically injured Zafar Gujjar before transferring him to the District Headquarters Hospital. Regrettably, he succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The City Police Station is currently investigating the incident, but the motive behind the murder and the identities of the perpetrators remain unknown at this time. APP/qmb/378 MOSCOW, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Russian Ambassador to Japan Nikolai Nozdrev said on Monday that the U.S.-Japan alliance is posing a nuclear threat to Japan's regional neighbors. During an interview with Russia's TASS News Agency, Nozdrev noted that Washington and Tokyo are rapidly strengthening the military component of their alliance, including the ongoing formation of deeply integrated command structures, the enhancement of Japan's Self-Defense Forces' strike capabilities, and the merging of the defense industries of the two countries. According to Nozdrev, recent discussions among allies about the expanded role of deterrence, which includes the use of nuclear weapons in joint operations, are strongly supported by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's administration. Nozdrev said these actions are "particularly cynical" given the approaching anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He criticized Japan's leadership for not only ignoring the fact that the United States conducted these lethal bombings but also for showing a willingness to collaborate with the United States on nuclear planning. The comments follow a joint statement issued last month between U.S. and Japanese officials in Tokyo. The statement marks the first time that the United States has documented its commitment to defend Japan against potential external threats using methods that include nuclear weapons. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the "unwavering commitment" of the United States to Japan's defense, including the use of extended deterrence involving both conventional and nuclear arms. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) Muhammad Ali Randhawa on Tuesday briefed the Ambassador of Zimbabwe to Pakistan Titus M.J. Abu Bastu on the upcoming Safari Park project in Islamabad, expected to boost tourism in the city ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) Muhammad Ali Randhawa on Tuesday briefed the Ambassador of Zimbabwe to Pakistan Titus M.J. Abu Bastu on the upcoming Safari Park project in Islamabad, expected to boost tourism in the city. During the meeting, the CDA chairman told the Ambassador that the park will initially house 2,000 animals, with a total capacity of over 5,000. He invited Zimbabwe to contribute to the project by exporting animals from their country. Both the dignitaries discussed issues of mutual interest and explored potential areas of collaboration between the two nations. The envoy Abu Bastu commended Chairman Randhawa's efforts to beautify Islamabad, particularly highlighting the solid waste management initiatives. The ambassador expressed keen interest in learning from Pakistan's experiences in this sector. Furthermore, Bastu proposed relocating the Zimbabwean embassy to the diplomatic enclave, to which Chairman Randhawa assured a swift resolution by the Foreign Office. Dhaka, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) Bangladesh's Nobel-winning microfinance pioneer Muhammad Yunus has been tapped to lead an interim government after mass protests forced longtime prime minister Sheikh Hasina to flee, the presidency announced early Wednesday. The appointment came quickly after student leaders called on the 84-year-old Yunus -- credited with lifting millions out of poverty in the South Asian country -- to lead, and he said he was ready to do so. The decision "to form an interim government with... Yunus as its chief" was taken at a meeting of President Mohammed Shahabuddin, military leaders and the heads of the Students Against Discrimination (SAD) group, Shahabuddin's press office said. "The president has asked the people to help ride out the crisis. Quick formation of an interim government is necessary to overcome the crisis," it said in a statement, adding that the national police chief had been sacked. Yunus will have the title of chief advisor, according to sad leader Nahid Islam. Shahabuddin agreed that the interim government "will be formed within the shortest time" possible, islam told reporters. Hasina, 76, had been in power since 2009 but was accused of rigging elections in January and then watched millions of people take to the streets over the past month demanding her resignation. Hundreds of people were killed as security forces sought to quell the unrest but the protests grew and Hasina finally fled Monday aboard a helicopter after the military turned against her. Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said it was "time to stop the violence". The president dissolved parliament on Tuesday, a key demand of the student leaders and the major opposition Bangladesh National Party (BNP), which has demanded elections within three months. "If action is needed in Bangladesh, for my country and for the courage of my people, then I will take it," Yunus told AFP in a statement Tuesday, also calling for free elections. - 'In Dr. Yunus, we trust' - "In Dr. Yunus, we trust," Asif Mahmud, a key leader of SAD, wrote on Facebook. The military on Tuesday reshuffled several generals, demoting some seen as close to Hasina, and sacking Ziaul Ahsan, a commander of the feared Rapid Action Battalion paramilitary force. Ex-prime minister and BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, 78, was also released from years of house arrest, a presidential statement and her party said. Streets in the capital were largely peaceful Tuesday -- with shops opening and international flights resuming at Dhaka airport -- but government offices remained mostly closed. Millions of Bangladeshis flooded the streets to celebrate after Hasina's departure -- and jubilant crowds also stormed and looted her official residence. "We have been freed from a dictatorship", said Sazid Ahnaf, 21, comparing the events to the independence war that split the nation from Pakistan more than five decades ago. - 100s dead - Police said mobs had launched revenge attacks on Hasina's allies and their own officers, and also freed more than 500 inmates from a prison. Monday was the deadliest day since protests began in early July, and 10 more people were killed Tuesday, taking the death toll overall to at least 432, according to an AFP tally based on police, government officials and hospital doctors. Protesters broke into parliament and torched tv stations. Others smashed statues of Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh's independence hero. Some businesses and homes owned by Hindus -- a group seen by some in the Muslim-majority nation as close to Hasina -- were also attacked. Bangladeshi rights groups, as well as US and European Union diplomats, have expressed concerns about reports of attacks on religious, ethnic and other minority groups. Heavy rains have triggered building collapses that have killed nine people in northern Sudan, as the country reels from almost 16 months of fighting between rival security forces, a medic told AFP Tuesday Khartoum, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) Heavy rains have triggered building collapses that have killed nine people in northern Sudan, as the country reels from almost 16 months of fighting between rival security forces, a medic told AFP Tuesday. "Nine people have died as a result of their houses collapsing," said an employee at a hospital in Abu Hamad, a small town in Sudan's Nile state, some 400 kilometres (nearly 250 miles) north of Khartoum. "Many injured people continue to arrive at the hospital", the source added. Each year in August, peak flow on the Nile is accompanied by heavy rains, destroying homes, wrecking infrastructure and claiming lives, both directly and indirectly through water-borne diseases. The impact is expected to be worse this year after more than twelve months of fighting that has pushed millions of displaced people into flood zones. "Heavy rains caused most of the houses to collapse and all the shops in the market collapsed," a witness in Abu Hamad told AFP by telephone. Last week, a flash flood caused the deaths of five people in Port Sudan, on the Red Sea coast. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Beirut, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) A Lebanese security source said an Israeli strike killed five Hezbollah fighters in the south on Tuesday, with the group claiming attacks on northern Israel, including one with explosive drones. Lebanon's health ministry said an "Israeli enemy raid on a house in the town of Mayfadun", near the southern city of Nabatiyeh, killed five people. The dead "were all Hezbollah fighters", a security source told AFP, requesting anonymity. (@FahadShabbir) Kyiv, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) Multiple Russian missiles and drones targeted the Ukrainian capital Kyiv and its surrounding area on Monday evening, with authorities deploying air defences in response, officials said. The blasts began just after 11 pm local time (2000 GMT), and a trail of light from what appeared to be an air defence missile could later be seen streaking upwards over the skyline. "The enemy carried out a missile attack in the direction of Kyiv and its outskirts," the head of the city's military administration, Sergiy Popko, said on Telegram. "Air defence forces and equipment operated in the capital and on the outskirts of the city. According to preliminary data, enemy missiles were hit," he said. "As of now, no damage or casualties have been recorded in Kyiv," he added. AFP reporters heard loud explosions in the east and central parts of the capital. Air defences were later deployed to intercept drones in the wider Kyiv region, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said. Kyiv has reported several intense air attacks over the recent weeks, including a Russian missile attack that destroyed part of a children's hospital in July. Last Wednesday, Russia fired 89 drones at Ukraine, more than 40 of which were shot down over the capital Kyiv and surrounding area in one of the largest aerial barrages in months. Pokrovsk, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) Vitaliy Asinenko watched anxiously as his colleague sat perched on a crane, hovering over power cables in a village just a few kilometres from the frontline in east Ukraine. The air became static as a blanket of clouds rolled toward them over the horizon, but the 46-year-old electrician had bigger worries than a possible storm. "In weather like this, you can't see the bombs coming," he said, a helmet firmly planted on his head. For months, Russia has been pounding Ukraine's fragile energy grid and power plants with air strikes, cutting electricity to millions of people in what Kyiv has called a blatant war crime. Together with his team at Ukrainian energy operator DTEK, Vitaliy has been tasked with repairing the damage caused by Moscow's routine strikes near Pokrovsk, an eastern city less than 15 kilometres (nine miles) from advancing Russian troops. "We have to make sure that the civilian refuge point and the humanitarian distribution points have power," Vitaliy explained. Around him lay the ruins of buildings scarred by artillery, a constant reminder that Russia is closing in as its soldiers inch forward through the eastern Donbas region. "Three months ago, it was quieter," Vitaliy said. "Today, there's a risk of suicide drones, it's become really dangerous," he added. He said his team had become a "target" just like the military, and that some of his colleagues had already been injured in the area. Metres above in the basket of their Soviet-era crane, Vitaliy's colleague hurriedly cut through and connected a mass of copper wire torn by the shrapnel. In the distance, the boom of explosions rang out. "They were rockets," Vitaliy said assuredly from his position on the ground, a flicker of anxiety flashing in his eyes before getting back to work. His team admitted that everyone was scared, but being able to recognise the sounds of war have kept them going. "We listen to the hum of the drones and the artillery fire, so we know just how dangerous the situation is," Vitaliy explained. His team's job is never-ending, with more bombs falling across the eastern front every day. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Caracas, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2024) Venezuela's opposition leaders on Monday appealed to the army, the main pillar of support for President Nicolas Maduro, to turn on him and "take the side of the people" after his disputed reelection -- a call swiftly met with a criminal probe. Prosecutors said they had opened an investigation targeting opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia for announcing an election winner other than Maduro, instigating disobedience and insurrection. The opposition insists Gonzalez Urrutia was the rightful victor of the July 28 presidential election, which has plunged the oil-rich nation into political crisis. Multiple countries, including the United States and Argentina, have recognized Gonzalez Urrutia as the winner, while others, such as the European Union, have stopped short of doing so, while calling for full publication of voting records. The contested election sparked protests last week that left at least 11 civilians dead, according to rights groups. "We appeal to the conscience of soldiers and police officers to take the side of the people and their own families," the opposition said in a statement in which they offered "guarantees to those who fulfill their constitutional duty" in a possible "new government." The statement, which Gonzalez Urrutia signed as "president-elect," also urges the security forces to halt the "repression" of opposition protests. The government has reported the deaths of two soldiers in the clashes. The opposition statement said that top commanders were "aligned with Maduro and his vile interests, while you are represented by the people who went out to vote... whose will was expressed on July 28, and you know it." The prosecutors hit back with a statement that said the opposition duo, "outside the constitution and the law, falsely announced a winner of the presidential election different from the one announced by the National Electoral Council." On Friday, the National Electoral Council (CNE) ratified Maduro's victory with 52 percent of the vote against 43 percent for Gonzalez Urrutia. The opposition has uploaded voting records onto a website which it claims show that Gonzalez Urrutia won with 67 percent of the vote. The CNE, which the opposition accuses of being loyal to Maduro, has still not provided details of the vote broken down by polling station, and has said it was the victim of computer hacking. Maduro asked the Supreme Court, which is also loyal to him, to "certify" the election through a process that academics and political leaders have deemed inappropriate. "There is a Supreme Court and that court will have the last word on a process that is under attack like never before," Maduro said. The Supreme Court's electoral section has asked the National Electoral Council to provide voting tally records from all over the country and the official documents that state the final definitive result of a Maduro win. The deadline for releasing these is Monday. Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Monday called for dialogue between the Venezuelan government and opposition to resolve the election dispute. "A commitment to peace is what leads us to call the parties to dialogue and to promote understanding between the government and the opposition," Lula said during a state visit to Chile, where he met with President Gabriel Boric. Lula, a Maduro ally engaged in a sensitive diplomatic balancing act, has urged his Venezuelan counterpart to publish voting records to resolve the dispute. Earlier Monday, Lula spoke on the phone with French President Emmanuel Macron. "We back the aspiration of the Venezuelan people towards a transparent election. This requirement is at the heart of any democracy," Macron wrote in a social media post after the call. Macron and Lula "called on the Venezuelan authorities to publish all the voting records of polling stations in order to guarantee the transparency and integrity of the electoral process," the Elysee presidential palace said. NANNING, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese court on Tuesday sentenced Chen Rugui, a former senior legislator of south China's Guangdong Province, to life imprisonment for taking bribes. Chen, formerly vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the Guangdong Provincial People's Congress, was deprived of political rights for life, his personal property will be confiscated, and his illegal gains from bribery will be recovered and turned over to the state treasury, according to the verdict of the Intermediate People's Court of Nanning in neighboring Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The court found that Chen took advantage of his positions in Guangdong between 2003 and 2022 to assist individuals and organizations on matters related to project contracting and business operation. He accepted money and valuables worth more than 108 million yuan (about 15.15 million U.S. dollars) in return, the court said. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. U.S. President Joe Biden met with his national security team Monday and spoke with Jordan's king to defuse heightened tensions in the Middle East after a pair of high-profile assassinations last week. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, meanwhile, warned Israel would exact a "heavy price" if attacked by Iran or its proxies in the region. The White House said over the weekend that it was committed to a hostage-release and cease-fire deal that had so far been elusive but emphasized that Washington stood ready to respond and had surged military resources to the region. "We still believe a cease-fire deal is the best way to bring this war to an end," John Kirby, White House national security spokesman, said. "It's also, we believe, very possible. We still believe the gaps are narrow enough to close. The other thing that we've been doing since the 7th of October is making sure that not only Israel has what it needs to defend itself, but that this war doesn't escalate to become something broader." Analysts say this is a tense moment. "I think one of the reasons that this is also scary, to be honest, for everybody, is that it isn't clear what the United States can do when we're on the brink like this," said Natasha Hall, a senior fellow with the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Advocates for the American Muslim community, which has criticized Biden's staunch support for Israel, say Washington should take a firm line on Israel's aggression in Gaza. "The United States possesses a wide array of diplomatic and political tools to hold Israel accountable, whether that's withholding aid, ammunition, weapons, political support or sanctioning more of Israel's far-right settlers that have been engaged in violence," said Robert McCaw, Government Affairs Department director at the Council on American-Islamic Relations. Netanyahu said Israel is ready to meet challenges. "Iran and its proxies seek to surround us with a stranglehold of terror on seven fronts," he said. "Their visible aggression is insatiable, but Israel is not helpless. We are determined to stand against them on every front, in every arena, far and near. Anyone who murders our citizens, anyone who harms our country, will be held accountable. He will pay a very heavy price." Jordan Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi recently paid a rare visit to Tehran, and Biden on Monday spoke to Jordan's King Abdullah II about de-escalating tensions in the region. Hall says diplomacy may be the best way forward. "What he [Safadi] wanted to do was play essentially a mediating role in much the same way that Qatar has been doing in recent months," she said. "Just speak to Iran, try to address their concerns, but also to be essentially a conduit for the United States to ensure that there's some kind of open channel during these particularly scary times. And I think that that is more necessary than ever before, since the United States does not directly speak to high-ranking Iranian officials. And so, they are depending on these kinds of regional mediators, probably more so than ever before, Hall said. So, with nearly 40,000 people dead, Gaza in ruins, and Lebanon and Iran on high alert, the world is waiting to see what happens next. A reporter asked Biden about one of the key players in the conflict as he left church on Sunday. "Do you think Iran will stand down, sir?" the reporter said. "I hope so," Biden replied. "I don't know." U.S. President Joe Biden met with his national security team Monday and spoke with the king of Jordan to defuse heightened tensions in the Middle East after a pair of high-profile assassinations. Israels leader has warned the country will exact a heavy price if attacked by Iran or its proxies in the region. VOAs Anita Powell reports from the White House. It was billed as the biggest ever economic development project in north Michigan when Governor Gretchen Whitmer in 2022 welcomed a Chinese lithium-ion battery companys plan to build a $2.36 billion factory and bring a couple thousand jobs to Big Rapids. Now the project by Gotion High-Tech is in the crosshairs of some U.S. lawmakers and residents. Leading the charge is Republican Representative John Moolenaar of Michigan, chairman of the House Select Committee on China, who accuses the Chinese company of having ties to forced labor and says he fears it could spy for Beijing and work to extend China's influence in the U.S. heartland. Gotion rejects the accusations. I want to see this area have more jobs and investments, but we must not welcome companies that are controlled by people who see us as the enemy and we should not allow them to build here, Moolenaar said at a recent roundtable discussion in Michigan. Lured by the large U.S. market, Chinese businesses are coming to the United States with money, jobs and technology, only to find rising suspicion at a time of an intensifying U.S.-China rivalry that has spread into the business world. U.S. wariness of China, coupled with Beijing's desire to protect its technological competitiveness, threatens to rupture ties between the world's two largest economies. That could hurt businesses, workers and consumers, which some warn could undermine the economic foundation that has helped stabilize relations. This is a lose-lose scenario for the two countries, Zhiqun Zhu, professor of political science and international relations at Bucknell University, said in an email. The main reason is U.S.-China rivalry, and the U.S. government prioritizes national security over economic interests in dealing with China. Lizhi Liu, an assistant professor of business at Georgetown University, said the trend, along with the decline of U.S. investments in China, could hurt China-U.S. relations. Strong investment ties between the two nations are crucial not only for economic reasons but also for security, as intertwined economic interests reduce the likelihood of major conflicts or even war, she said. But U.S. lawmakers believe the stakes are high. Senator Marco Rubio said at a July hearing that China is not only a military and diplomatic adversary for the U.S. but also a technological, industrial and commercial opponent. The technological and industrial high ground has always been a precursor of global power, said Rubio, a Republican from Florida. The bipartisan House Select Committee on China has warned that widespread adoption in the U.S. of technologies developed by China could threaten long-term U.S. technological competitiveness. U.S. public sentiment against Chinese investments began to build during President Barack Obama's administration, in a pushback against globalization, and were amplified after President Donald Trump came into office, said Yilang Feng, an assistant professor of business at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, who studies economic nationalism and resistance to foreign direct investments in the U.S. The scale has increased, so has the intensity, Feng said. As President Joe Biden's administration seeks to revive American manufacturing and boost U.S. technological capabilities, many politicians believe Chinese companies should be kept out. Can you imagine working for an American company working tirelessly to develop battery technology and then you find out that your tax dollars are being used to subsidize a competitor from China? Moolenaar said as he campaigned against the Gotion project in his congressional district in a state that is critical in the presidential election. Whitmer's office has declined to comment on the project. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation told The Associated Press it has received bipartisan support at all levels to move forward with the project, which will create up to 2,350 jobs. Residents of Green Charter Township, however, revolted against the project over its Chinese connections last year when they removed five officials who supported it in a recall election. In Worcester, Massachusetts, the Chinese biotech company WuXi Biologics paused construction of a large facility a few weeks after lawmakers introduced a bill that would, over data security concerns, ban U.S. entities receiving federal funds from doing business with several China-linked companies, WuXi Biologics included. John Ling, who has helped South Carolina and Georgia attract Chinese businesses for nearly two decades, said geopolitics have been getting in the way in recent years. Chinese companies are less likely to consider South Carolina after the state senate last year approved a bill banning Chinese citizens from buying property, even though the bill has yet to clear the statehouse, Ling said. Data by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis show the total investments by China in the U.S. fell to just under $44 billion in 2023, from a high point of $63 billion in 2017, although first-year expenditures rose to $621 million in 2023, up from $531 million in 2022 but drastically down from the high of $27 billion in 2016. The figures include acquisitions, new business establishments and expansions. In 2022, Michigan beat out several other states in luring Gotion. Keen to revive its manufacturing base, the state offered a package of incentives, including $175 million in grants and the approval of a new zone that could save the company $540 million. Local townships approved tax abatements for Gotion to build a factory to make components for electrical vehicle batteries. In Green Charter Township, the new board dropped support for the project and rescinded an agreement to extend water to the factory site, only to be rebuked by a U.S. district judge. The future of the plant remains uncertain, as Moolenaar is rallying support for his bill that would prevent Gotion from receiving federal subsidies. He accuses the company of using forced labor, after congressional staff discovered links between the company and Xinjiang Production Construction Corps., a paramilitary group sanctioned by the U.S. Commerce Department for its involvement in China's forced labor practice. Chuck Thelen, vice president of manufacturing of Gotion North America, recently called the forced labor accusations categorically false and clearly intended to deceive. China has lost a partner with the resignation under pressure of Bangladeshs long-serving Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who during a visit to Beijing last month signed 28 bilateral agreements and agreed to raise ties between the countries to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. Beijings official response to her flight into exile was muted, with the Xinhua News Agency quoting the Foreign Ministry describing Bangladesh as a friendly neighbor and expressing its hopes that social stability would be restored soon. But on Chinese social media platforms, users have openly praised the courage of the student protesters who drove Hasina out of office, braving a harsh military crackdown that saw dozens if not hundreds of students killed. At a moment when democracy and equality were faced with sustained and serious setbacks, the heroic people of Bangladesh used their lives and blood to turn the tide around. The worlds civilizations may be diverse, but they only have one path forward. Best wishes to the Bengalis, one Weibo user wrote. Some internet users lamented that Chinese are less willing than their Bangladeshi counterparts to resist government policies. Theyre much braver compared to the people in China, a Weibo user wrote. Agreed, some Chinese people arent even brave enough to leave their communities because of the pandemic, another replied, a reference to the tight restrictions the Chinese government put in place during the COVID-19 outbreak. Hours after Hasina fled, Bangladeshi Army Chief of Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman addressed the people of Bangladesh, promising that the military would investigate the violent crackdown on the student protesters. Keep faith in the military, we will investigate all the killings and punish the responsible, he said, adding that he had ordered the army and police to not open fire on crowds under any circumstances. The militarys newfound restraint elicited praise from some Chinese social media users. I salute the brave Bangladeshi people, I salute the military that stands together with the people. Rights are acquired through fighting. Best wishes to the Bangladeshi people, a comment read. Others argued that the past months protests were the result of disorder brought upon the country by Western ideology, and that only an ideology such as that of the Chinese Communist Party could bring stability to Bangladesh. A handful of ambitious people, plus a small group of mindless fanatics, has shaped and destroyed the fate of everyone, wrote one Weibo user. The only way to avoid this result is through iron-fist rule by a party representative of the people. Democracy and freedom accelerate a countrys self-destruction. They are the worst political system. Other users applied the governments own talking points to counter that argument. Democracy and freedom are written into socialist values. Who do you think you are, daring to oppose socialist values? one comment read. Hasina was Bangladesh's longest-serving female head of government. She was re-elected for a fourth consecutive term in January elections boycotted by her main political rival. Thousands of opposition members were arrested ahead of the elections. The United States and Britain condemned the election results as untrustworthy. Although what comes next remains to be seen, China will be watching closely given the amount of money and energy it has already invested in the relationship. In the July communique announcing the two sides upgrade to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, the two countries announced plans to increase defense exchanges and allow for an expanded Chinese role in Bangladeshi infrastructure and economic development. In the security domain, Bangladesh has been a steady consumer of Chinese weapons. From 2009, when Hasina took power, to 2023, Bangladesh received 12% of Chinese total arms exports, a quantity second only to Pakistan, according to the SIPRI Arms Transfer database. The two sides also partook in their first military exercise in early May of this year. Bangladesh joined Chinas Belt and Road Initiative in 2016 to receive Chinese financial assistance on various infrastructure projects. So far, China has assisted in the construction of important roads and railways, expansion of the power and communications grids, modernization of seaports and development of a surface water treatment plant. Katherine Michaelson contributed to this report. German factory orders rose more strongly than expected in June, official data showed Tuesday, boosting hopes that a recovery in Europe's top economy could be gaining momentum. Orders in the country's crucial manufacturing sector rose 3.9% from a month earlier, according to federal statistics agency Destatis, an uptick that followed five consecutive months of falls. That was higher than an increase of 1% forecast by analysts surveyed by financial data firm FactSet. But the order data, closely watched as an indicator of future business activity, was 11.8% lower from the same month a year earlier, according to Destatis. June's month-on-month rise was driven by domestic orders, which rose by 9.1%, while demand from abroad edged up only slightly. The uptick comes after a recent run of lackluster data, and may boost optimism a rebound is finally taking hold after the German economy shrank last year due in part to an industrial slowdown. Along with recent positive figures on eurozone bank lending, the orders data "could suggest a recovery in fixed investments in the second half of the year," said the economy ministry in a statement. "However a more general revival in industrial activity is unlikely for now given the subdued mood among businesses and continued weak foreign demand," it added. Jens-Oliver Niklasch, analyst at LBBW bank, said that while June's figures "exceeded all expectations," they were "not enough to break the downward trend." Visitors enjoy the carriage in Lipica stud farm, Slovenia on May 19, 2024. (Photo by Zeljko Stevanic/Xinhua) The farm, established in the 16th century, has played an important role in European horseback riding. LIPICA, Slovenia, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Spanning more than 300 hectares, the Lipica Stud Farm in western Slovenia draws thousands of tourists annually, to enjoy the sight of snow-white Lipizzan horses galloping across its green meadows. Tourists typically visit from neighboring countries, but the farm's head of sales and marketing Aaron Uazeua told Xinhua in an interview that Lipica is now eager to attract visitors from China. The farm is also open to the idea of business ventures with Chinese partners, he added. "Sometimes we see people from China riding in Lipica, but not as often as (people) from countries closer to us," Uazeua said. Lipizzaners are pictured in Lipica stud farm, Slovenia on May 19, 2024. (Photo by Zeljko Stevanic/Xinhua) Visitors to the farm can watch the horses running and grazing in the vast meadows, surrounded by rolling hills. They can also enter the stables, with their gold-plated ornaments that speak to a royal past. Tourists can also watch the horses' official training sessions, and attend the elaborate shows at the Lipica Riding School. The farm has long played an important role in the region, and in European horseback riding. It was established in the 16th century, and has been home to the Lipizzan horses for over 400 years. "In the 16th century the horses were being imported mostly from Spain. It was a long journey for horses to make, and the royal court then decided that they needed a place closer to home, with a climate that resembles that of Spain," Uazeua explained. "One of the main characteristics -- and maybe the one that is the most famous -- is that Lipizzan horses are born completely dark," he said. "At the age of 5 to 8 ... they become white." The Lipizzan horse is an artificial mix of the horses from the Karst region, where the Lipica farm is located, and Spanish horses. 1,000 of the elegant animals now live in the country. Esteemed American astronaut, geoscience professor and artist Sian Proctor is touring South African schools to emphasize the importance of education in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. Her goal is to inspire students to pursue careers in the sciences and equip them for space jobs. Zaheer Cassim reports from Johannesburg. (Camera and Produced by Zaheer Cassim) The Indian foreign minister said that India, which shares a long land border with Bangladesh, has put its border forces on high alert following the collapse of Sheikh Hasinas government. He also confirmed that the former prime minister is in the Indian capital after she fled the country Monday, following weeks of widespread protests led by students. At very short notice, she [Hasina] requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from the Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told parliament on Tuesday. Hasina was one of Indias closest allies in South Asia, and the dramatic fall of her government in Bangladesh presents a challenge for New Delhi, which had built strong ties with Dhaka during her 15 years in office. She stepped down after scores of people were killed during a violent crackdown on a student-led uprising that erupted last month. Jaishankar said that India is in touch with the army in Bangladesh, which took control after Hasinas resignation. Our border-guarding forces have also been instructed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation in the last 24 hours. We will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored," Jaishankar said. India shares a largely porous border of more than 4,000 kilometers (almost 2,500 miles) with Bangladesh along several of its eastern and northeastern states, where insurgent groups used to be active. During Hasina's tenure, however, the border had been relatively calm because those groups had not been allowed to take sanctuary in Bangladesh. The Indian minister also expressed concern about the status of minority communities in Bangladesh, a mostly Muslim country. What was particularly worrying was that minorities, their business and temples also came under attack at multiple locations. The full extent of this is still not clear, Jaishankar said. European Union diplomats in Bangladesh have echoed similar concerns. EU heads of mission "are very concerned about incoming reports of multiple attacks against places of worship and members of religious, ethnic and other minorities in Bangladesh," EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Charles Whiteley posted on social media platform X. Bangladesh's president dissolved parliament Tuesday, paving the way for the formation of an interim government. Student groups that led the uprising against Hasina have said they want Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate and a pioneer of microfinance, to help lead the interim government. Yunus, who is currently in Paris, has called Hasinas resignation the countrys second liberation day. In an interview with Indian broadcaster NDTV Tuesday, Yunus said the country had got rid of a very authoritarian government. He said, The ultimate goal for stability is to bring democracy, which was completely denied in Bangladesh. Yunus also said that restoration of law and order was the biggest priority facing Bangladesh. If that cannot be achieved, there will be a spillover effect in neighboring countries, including India and Myanmar, he said. Iran executed a man on Tuesday after courts convicted him of killing a Revolutionary Guards officer during nationwide protests in 2022, the judiciary said. "Gholamreza Rasaei was executed this morning [Tuesday] in Kermanshah prison" in western Iran for "stabbing to death a Revolutionary Guards colonel during the illegal protests in November 2022," the judiciary's Mizan Online website reported. The colonel, Nader Bayrami, was in charge of the Guards' intelligence unit in Sahneh city of Kermanshah province in Iran's Kurdish region, according to the Tasnim news agency. The country's Kurdish region was one of the centers of the protests that followed the September 2022 death of Mahsa Amini, an Iranian Kurd, in police custody. Amini, 22, had been arrested in Tehran for an alleged breach of Iran's strict dress code for women. Hundreds of people were killed during the demonstrations, including dozens of security personnel, and thousands more arrested in what officials labeled foreign-instigated "riots." Mizan said Rasaei was sentenced to death in October 2023 in accordance with Islamic Sharia law on "retribution," and the verdict was later upheld by the Supreme Court. His execution brings to 10 the number of people put to death on charges of murder or other violence against security forces personnel during the protests. The European Union's diplomatic service released a statement condemning the execution "in the strongest terms" and urging Iran to end capital punishment as a response to domestic dissent. "The death penalty is a cruel and inhumane punishment, which fails to act as a deterrent to crime and represents an unacceptable denial of human dignity and integrity," it added. The covering of the neck and head became compulsory for women in Iran a few years after the 1979 Islamic revolution. For a while after the protests, women increasingly flouted the dress code, but in recent months police have taken tougher steps against women who ignore the rules. Iran executes more people per year than any other nation except China, according to human rights groups including Amnesty International. Iran generally carries out executions by hanging. Nigerian police said on Tuesday they had arrested more than 90 demonstrators carrying Russian flags at protests triggered by economic hardship. Thousands of people joined protests against government policies and the high cost of living last week as Africa's most populous country suffers its worst economic crisis in a generation. The rallies have petered out in most parts of the country following clashes with security forces, but hundreds of protesters took to the streets in northern states on Monday including Kaduna, Katsina and Kano, as well as central Plateau state. AFP journalists and witnesses saw some demonstrators holding Russian flags, a development the Russian embassy distanced itself from. Northern Nigeria shares strong cultural, religious and socioeconomic ties with neighbors in the Sahel region, which has seen a string of coups and military leaders turning away from Western allies towards Russia. Russian flags have featured at rallies in Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, and their appearance in Nigeria triggered strong reactions from officials. Asked about the protesters in Nigeria, police spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi said "we have more than 90 of them arrested with the Russian flags." Later on Tuesday, security chiefs from the armed forces and police among others gave a rare joint briefing and alleged unnamed "sponsors" were seeking to undermine the government, without providing evidence. "The sponsors of these protests, some of them, have a clear motive to subvert the government of the day, we are not going to allow that, we will defend our democracy," said police chief Kayode Egbetokun. He alleged that some sponsors were "outside the country" and said "we have to arrest those carrying flags to be able to get to the sponsors." On Monday, defense chief General Christopher Musa said those pushing individuals to carry Russian flags in Nigeria were "crossing the red line and we will not accept that." Damilare Adenola, leader of the Take It Back group organizing protests in Abuja, dismissed the allegations as "mere distraction." He said the authorities were using the claims as a "reason to clamp down on protesters." The Russian embassy in Nigeria denied involvement in a statement on its website on Monday. "The Government of the Russian Federation as well as any Russian officials are not involved in these activities and do not coordinate them in any way," it said. Rights group Amnesty International has accused security forces of killing at least 13 demonstrators in the first day of protests on Thursday, while police say seven people have died and denied responsibility. In a televised address on Sunday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu called for the suspension of demonstrations -- but protest organizers have vowed to press ahead despite lower turnout. Bangladesh's Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus will head the country's interim government after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stepped down and fled the country amid a mass uprising against her rule led mostly by students. The announcement early on Wednesday came from Joynal Abedin, the press secretary of President Mohammed Shahabuddin. Abedin spoke to The Associated Press over the phone. Abedin also said that the other members of the Yunus-led government would be decided soon after discussion with political parties and other stakeholders. The leaders of the student protests, the chiefs of the country's three divisions of the military, civil society members, as well as some business leaders held a meeting with the president for more than five hours late on Tuesday to decide on the head of the interim administration. The students had earlier proposed Yunus and said he agreed. He is expected to return to the country from Paris soon, local media reported. Following the decision, student leaders left the president's official house shortly after midnight Tuesday obviously satisfied and welcoming the decision. This image contains sensitive content which some people may find offensive or disturbing. Click to reveal This image contains sensitive content which some people may find offensive or disturbing - Click to reveal A rickshaw passes by a wall covered in graffiti in the University of Dhaka area, a day after the resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Aug. 6, 2024. Earlier, Bangladesh's president dissolved Parliament, clearing the way for new elections to replace the longtime prime minister who resigned and fled the country following weeks of demonstrations against her rule that descended into violence. President Mohammed Shahabuddin also ordered the release of opposition leader Khaleda Zia from house arrest. Zia, a longtime rival of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, was convicted on corruption charges by Hasina's government in 2018. On Tuesday, some senior positions in the military were reshuffled. The student protesters said they would not allow any military-backed government. The streets of Dhaka, the capital, appeared calmer Tuesday, with no reports of new violence as jubilant protesters thronged the ousted leader's residence. Some posed for selfies with soldiers guarding the building, where a day earlier angry protesters had looted furniture, paintings, flowerpots and chickens. Dhaka's main airport resumed operations after an eight-hour suspension. The Bangladesh Police Association said it was launching a strike across the country because of a lack of security after numerous police stations were attacked on Monday and "many" officers were killed, though it didn't give any number of the dead. It said officers would not return to work unless their safety is assured. The association also apologized for violent police attacks on student protesters, saying officers had been "forced to open fire" and had been cast as the "villain." Hasina fled to India by helicopter on Monday as protesters defied military curfew orders to march on the capital, with thousands of demonstrators eventually storming her official residence and other buildings associated with her party and family. Protests against a quota system for government jobs, which critics said favored people with connections to her party, grew into a broader challenge to her 15-year rule, which was marked by human rights abuses, corruption and allegations of rigged elections amid a brutal crackdown on her opponents. A bloody crackdown on the demonstrations led to clashes that left scores dead, further fueling the movement. Criminal charges will be filed against the local Kansas police chief who last year led a much-condemned raid on the Marion County Record newspaper, special prosecutors in the case announced Monday. The final report on the raid from special prosecutors Marc Bennett and Barry Wilkerson said that they plan to charge former Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody with obstruction of the judicial process. If convicted, Cody faces between seven and 23 months in prison. Last August, Cody ordered Marion officers to raid the local newsroom, an act widely condemned by press freedom groups and government officials as a clear violation of the First Amendment. Officers also raided the home of Marion County Record publisher Eric Meyer and his mother, Joan, and the home of then-City Council member Ruth Herbel, who had been critical of the mayor. Joan Meyer, 98, died one day after the raid. Her son Eric blamed her death on the stress caused by the raid. The investigation, which was released Monday, was initially launched by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation before being turned over to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation in November 2023. Bennett and Wilkerson agreed to serve as special prosecutors at the request of the elected Marion County attorney Joel Ensey. The newspapers lawyer, Bernie Rhodes, said the final report released on Monday confirmed what the Record had always known. We believed all along that fair-minded law enforcement officers would conclude that no one at the Marion County Record committed a crime, and they have done that, Rhodes told VOA. Beyond that, that fair-minded law enforcement officers would also determine that Gideon Cody did likely commit a crime. So, its exactly what weve been saying from day one. The newspapers own lawsuit over the raid is ongoing, Rhodes added. Eric Meyer, the newspapers owner and publisher, also welcomed the news that the newspaper has finally, officially been vindicated. Meyer added he was glad that Cody would be held accountable, but said he hopes more will be done to remedy the entire situation. Its a good first step, but its hardly closure, Meyer told VOA. At the time of the incident, Cody said the raid was over an identity theft complaint that a local restaurant owner had filed. But during the raid itself, Cody rifled through records about himself, body camera footage showed. Katherine Jacobsen, the U.S. and Canada program coordinator at the Committee to Protect Journalists, welcomed the news that Cody is expected to be charged. Its heartening to see that officials are taking this seriously. And I think part of taking it seriously is making sure that people are held responsible, Jacobsen said. It sends a message that this kind of behavior from law enforcement will not be tolerated and is unacceptable. The Marion Police Department declined to comment for this story. VOA did not immediately receive a reply to a voicemail left at a possible cellphone number for Cody. VOA also did not immediately receive a reply to an email sent to a possible email address for Cody. It was not immediately clear who might be representing him in the potential criminal case. The raid on the Record took place almost one year ago, on Aug. 11, 2023. At the time, VOA reported extensively on the trauma the raid wrought on the newspapers staff. The recently released report suggested that Marion police, led by then-Chief Cody, conducted a poor investigation that led them to reach erroneous conclusions that Meyer and reporter Phyllis Zorn had committed identity theft or other computer crimes. Cody resigned in October 2023, about one week after the city council announced during a meeting that he had been suspended and weeks after officers were forced to return materials seized in the raid. Some local residents also said they were happy about the news that Cody would be charged for his role in the raid. Joan Meyer deserves this day, town resident Darvin Markley told VOA. Its a good day in Kansas. Maybe democracy is going to prevail. Some information in this report came from The Associated Press. A Chinese American scholar was convicted Tuesday of U.S. charges of using his reputation as a pro-democracy activist to gather information on dissidents and feed it to his homeland's government. A federal jury in New York delivered the verdict in the case of Shujun Wang, who helped found a pro-democracy group in the city. Prosecutors said that at the behest of China's main intelligence agency, the Ministry of State Security, Wang lived a double life for over a decade. "The defendant pretended to be opposed to the Chinese government so that he could get close to people who were actually opposed to the Chinese government," Assistant U.S. Attorney Ellen Sise said in an opening statement last month. "And then, the defendant betrayed those people, people who trusted him, by reporting information on them to China." Wang was convicted of charges that include conspiring to act as a foreign agent without notifying the attorney general. He had pleaded not guilty. A message seeking comment was sent to Wang's attorneys. Wang came to New York in 1994 to teach after doing so at a Chinese university. He later became a U.S. citizen. He helped found the Queens-based Hu Yaobang and Zhao Ziyang Memorial Foundation, named for two leaders of the Chinese Communist Party in the 1980s. According to prosecutors, Wang composed emails styled as "diaries" that recounted conversations, meetings and plans of various critics of the Chinese government. One message was about events commemorating the 1989 protests and bloody crackdown in Beijing's Tiananmen Square, prosecutors said. Other emails talked about people planning demonstrations during various visits that Chinese President Xi Jinping made to the U.S. Instead of sending the emails and creating a digital trail, Wang saved them as drafts that Chinese intelligence officers could read by logging in with a shared password, prosecutors said. In other, encrypted messages, Wang relayed details of upcoming pro-democracy events and plans to meet with a prominent Hong Kong dissident while the latter was in the United States, according to an indictment. During a series of FBI interviews between 2017 and 2021, Wang initially said he had no contacts with the Ministry of State Security, but he later acknowledged on videotape that the intelligence agency asked him to gather information on democracy advocates and that he sometimes did, FBI agents testified. But, they said, he claimed he didn't provide anything valuable, just information already in the public domain. Wang's lawyers portrayed him as a gregarious academic with nothing to hide. "In general, fair to say he was very open and talkative with you, right?" defense attorney Zachary Margulis-Ohnuma asked an undercover agent who approached Wang in 2021 under the guise of being affiliated with the Chinese security ministry. "He was," said the agent, who testified under a pseudonym. He recorded his conversation with Wang at the latter's house in Connecticut. "Did he seem a little lonely?" Margulis-Ohnuma asked a bit later. The agent said he didn't recall. Wang told agents his "diaries" were advertisements for the foundation's meetings or write-ups that he was publishing in newspapers, according to testimony. He also suggested to the undercover agent that publishing them would be a way to deflect any suspicion from U.S. authorities. Another agent, Garrett Igo, told jurors that when Wang found out in 2019 that investigators would search his phone for any contacts in the Chinese government, he paused for a minute. "And then he said, 'Do anything. I don't care,'" Igo recalled. Afghanistans ruling Taliban said Tuesday that about 3.7 million former refugees have returned to the country since the Islamist group took power three years ago. The statement was a response to the International Organization for Migration, or IOM, which reported last week that more than twice as many Afghans have left the country since 2020. Which side is correct? Possibly both. The dispute began with a July 31 IOM report that said nearly 8 million Afghans have departed the country over the last four years. Of those, said the IOM, 85% moved to neighboring countries, mostly Iran and Pakistan, and almost 1 million headed to Europe. The IOM said almost 70% of Afghans who went to Iran cited a lack of job opportunities as the main factor driving their migration. The Taliban-run Ministry of Refugees and Returnees challenged the IOM figure, saying there has not been such a significant exodus of people from the country since the Soviet invasion and subsequent decade-long occupation of Afghanistan in the 1980s. "In the last three years alone, 3.7 million Afghan citizens have returned home, marking the first instance of such a substantial influx in the last 40 years in Afghanistans history, the ministry declared. The ministry accused the U.N. agency of issuing false and misleading figures to attract donor funding. While neither sides figure can be independently confirmed, its conceivable that both numbers are accurate. Afghanistan has experienced significant outflows and inflows of people this decade. Many Afghans flee turmoil sparked by the withdrawal of the U.S.-led anti-terrorism coalition and the return to power of the Taliban, who continue to battle Afghan insurgent groups as well as sanctions imposed by Western countries over human rights concerns, mainly laws that ban women from most aspects of public life. At the same time, many Afghans are getting a cold welcome in what they hoped would be countries of refuge. In its report, the IOM acknowledged that the number of Afghans repatriating from Iran remains consistently high. It stated that nearly 1 million Afghans came back home in 2023, with 70% being undocumented and 60% forcibly returned. Meanwhile, neighboring Pakistan reported this week that its crackdown on undocumented foreigners in the country has led to the repatriation of nearly 700,000 Afghans in the last 10 months. Another 1.4 million legal Afghan refugees remain in the country. IOM and its partner agencies have repeatedly urged all countries to immediately halt the forced returns of Afghans, both in the short and long term, until conditions are established to ensure safe, dignified, and voluntary returns, regardless of legal status. Climate change impact Meanwhile, Save the Children reported Tuesday that extreme weather events forced at least 38,000 people, about half of them children, from their homes in Afghanistan in the first six months of this year. The aid group said, While most displacements in recent decades have been due to conflict, in 2022, climate disasters became the main reason people fled their homes and moved to other areas within Afghanistan. The report noted that more than one-third of Afghans are facing crisis levels of hunger, driven mostly by climate shocks and high food prices. Recent U.N. reports have cited drought as the main reason for disaster-driven displacement in Afghanistan, ranked as the sixth most vulnerable country to the impacts of climate change. The assessments found that 25 of the 34 Afghan provinces face severe or catastrophic drought conditions, affecting more than half the countrys more than 40 million population. The Taliban reclaimed power in August 2021 from the then-internationally backed government in Kabul, as the United States and NATO troops withdrew from the country after almost two decades of involvement in the Afghan war. No country has officially recognized the fundamentalist Taliban regime over its sweeping restrictions on women's rights to education, employment, and public life, among other human rights concerns. The international isolation has deterred potential partners from providing development assistance to help Taliban-ruled Afghanistan in addressing climate change and post-conflict reconstruction challenges. The U.S. abandonment this week of its $110 million drone base in Niger, once seen as a key hub for counterterrorism efforts, adds to a growing list of Western withdrawals, all steadily ceding ground to terror groups affiliated with Islamic State and al-Qaida. Officials with U.S. Africa Command announced the final departure of troops from Air Base 201 in Agadez on Monday, completing a process that began last year when a military junta overthrew Nigers democratically elected president and demanded U.S. forces leave. The U.S. withdrawal follows the pullout of French forces from Niger late last year and from neighboring Mali in 2022. A five-country alliance to fight terror groups across the Sahel, likewise, collapsed in recent years. And intelligence gathered by United Nations member states suggests the terror groups those Western forces were hoping to curtail have made the most of their growing absence. The al-Qaida-linked Jamaa Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin, also known as JNIM, has become the most significant threat in the Sahel, according to a U.N. Sanctions Monitoring Team report released last week. JNIM commands 5,000 to 6,000 fighters, the report said, and continues to expand, mostly in Burkina Faso, but also significantly in Mali and the Niger." And while the intelligence suggests JNIM has not given up on striking Western interests in the Sahel, the groups ability to expand and consolidate territorial gains could put it in position "to establish an emirate from central Mali to northern Benin, the report warned. The Islamic State terror groups affiliates in the region have also made gains. The U.N. report warns that ISs West African Province, also known as ISWAP, has grown in both importance and capability," working with IS core leadership to establish terror cells and networks in Nigeria and beyond. Estimates from U.N. member states put the number of ISWAP fighters at between 4,000 and 7,000. But much of their focus has been on supporting Islamic State in the Greater Sahara, or ISGS, with 2,000 to 3,000 fighters seeking to expand beyond their entrenched positions in Mali and the border regions of Burkina Faso and Niger. Making matters more precarious, the U.N. report warned that a tenuous detente (an unofficial agreement) between the al-Qaida-affiliated JNIM and ISGS appears to be holding, with the continued trend of the groups taking and holding larger areas of contiguous territory in the Sahel." Some analysts who study the region caution that the trendlines are unlikely to change. What we're witnessing right now is the direct consequence of all the coups in the region and the fact that all these troops have been driven out the French, Belgians, MINUSMA [United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali], African Union, the Americans, said Pieter Van Ostaeyen, a Belgian Arabist who studies Islamic extremism. It's like a carousel won't stop, he told VOA. It's like a downward spiral. Van Ostaeyen said that is reflected in the number of attacks claimed or attributed to JNIM and the IS affiliates. According to his data, the groups averaged 125 attacks per month over the first five months of this year, compared to just over 50 attacks per month during the same period a year ago. And Van Ostaeyen sees no indications that any of the regions militaries have what it takes to stop the spread of violence. Right now, it's like the Islamic State and JNIM are partly dividing Mali and Burkina Faso. Niger will fall completely to the jihadis, as well, he said. Liam Karr, the Africa team lead with the Washington-based Critical Threats Project at the American Enterprise Institute, also sees little reason for hope. In many cases, due to the illicit networks that a lot of these terror groups sit on, they might be more wealthy than a lot of the actual countries that they're operating against, Karr told VOA. There are also massive concerns about the role Russian official forces and paramilitary forces, like the Wagner Group or the recently formed Africa Corps, are playing in countries like Mali and Niger as Moscow seeks to gain influence. "We see that Wagner has been very, very progressive at trying to establish control in African countries," said U.S. Africa Commands General Michael Langley, briefing reporters this past June. This does not enhance security or stability, he said. Additionally, there are also concerns about the capacities of the Russian forces in Africa. Western officials have long warned the main goal of groups like Wagner has been to help Russia secure access to natural resources. And some recent events, like an attack by separatists in northern Mali that is said to have killed more than 80 Wagner mercenaries, have cast further doubts on Russian competence. Analysts like Karr also argue that even if Russia wanted to help push back against terror groups, the numbers are lacking. The Russian footprint there is much smaller, Karr said. Especially in somewhere like Niger, from a quantity standpoint, you have roughly 100, maybe, to 200 Russian forces taking the place of what was 1,500 French troops and over 1,000 U.S. service members. Thai progressive leader Pita Limjaroenrat and his Move Forward party won the biggest bloc in the countrys House of Representatives in elections last year. But Pitas bid to become the countrys prime minister failed to receive enough support in the parliament. Pita spoke recently with VOA about a ruling expected this week by the Constitutional Court in Thailand on whether to dissolve the Move Forward party and to ban Pita and other party executives from politics. Prosecutors have alleged party officials violated the constitution by campaigning for an amendment of a law, known as Article 112, which shields the countrys royal family from defamation. The following interview has been edited for clarity and brevity. VOA: How would you describe your feeling ahead of the ruling? Pita Limjaroenrat: Content. I'm very happy with what I have achieved. It's true that it's a very much a roller-coaster political ride, from an election winner to a parliamentarian at risk of being banned for either 10 years or potentially for the rest of my life. But I have chosen to look at it from where I have come from. It's an honor for me to serve my country and to have done my best in the past three or four years. As a rookie leader, as a new party, to be able to bring about change and hope, within the hearts of the Thai people. VOA: In the opinion column that you penned for The Economist on Aug.1, you wrote, Move Forward and I have become the latest casualties of such judicial overreach. The elite's judicial overreach and other quick fixes designed to preserve status quo will not always work in the long run. Why does the tone differ from being content? Pita: I wanted to point out that this is quite systematic. I'm trying to tell the readers from my penmanship that I'm not the first one. I'm the last casualty; that means I'm not the first one. And there has been 33 political parties [put] in the graveyard in the past 20 years. So if you look at it from a macro perspective, that means, you know, it's quite a systemized way of keeping elected politicians at bay. Thirty three political parties, 249 politicians being stripped away of their political rights. So, you know, I'm not taking it personally, just for me. And I'm trying to tell the readers that the stakes are not just about my personal political future nor about only the future of my party, but it's really all about democracy as a whole in this country. I'm not giving up and I'm not losing hope. I still remain optimistic because I travel all around the country meeting young people who are still very much alive and very much ready to cast the ballots in the voting booth. So ballots over battles, ballots over bullets. VOA: What about the impact of the verdict specifically in shaping the conversation about Article 112 in Thailand? Pita: You know, finally, as a country, as a society, we should be able to have a safe space, or a mechanism, to make sure that diversity or diverse views or conflicts get dissolved away. And that's why we thought that parliament would be the best place to find that consensus. VOA: The court case draws international attention. What does this court fight mean to your ambition for Thailands global stature? Pita: The international community is concerned in terms of similar values, which go beyond borders. But to me, personally, I feel like the definition of constitutional monarchy, the Thai way, has to be developed within the Thai society itself. It's a kind of governance that finds that kind of proportion, or the kind of balance, with the constitution, which is about the people and the monarchy. And each country is different. So I'm not trying to look outside of Thailand and define that definition. VOA: What political bargains have you made? Any areas that you think should not be compromised? Pita: I think I am flexible in terms of operations, but very consistent in terms of principles. You know, the more I wait, the more I wait to become the leader of the country, I feel the need to double down on the reform agendas that I have made, whether it's demilitarization, whether it's de-monopolization, whether it's decentralization. Im willing to be flexible on various things. For example, I remember when I was forming the coalition and there was a questioner asking that, if I join your coalition and the quota is supposed to be this X amount of ministers, can I have two more? Because I felt like that's a mark that would switch me from not joining your coalition, to joining your coalition. I said, fine, as long as you promise to us, through that MOU, that you will deliver X and X policies that you and I campaign on, before people cast the votes for us. So that is an example of a flexibility I'm willing to do. But not like a reversal, or flip-flop politics. VOA: If this is one of the last remarks you will share to your constituents before youre banned from holding a political office, what would you say? Pita: Keep moving forward. ... I can speak on behalf of the people on various things as long as, you know, there are people who are willing to listen to me. Keep moving forward. So parliament might not be my playground and Thailand doesn't want me, but all over the country will be my playground. ASEAN will be my playground. Asia will be my playground. And the world will become my playground until we can meet again. A car damaged in a drone attack is seen in northern Israeli city of Nahariya on Aug. 6, 2024. A drone attack launched on Tuesday from Lebanon by Hezbollah forces injured six people in northern Israel, including one who is in critical condition, Israeli sources said. (JINI/Handout via Xinhua) JERUSALEM/BEIRUT, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- A drone attack launched on Tuesday from Lebanon by Hezbollah forces injured six people in northern Israel, including one who is in critical condition, Israeli sources said. "A number of hostile UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) were identified crossing from Lebanon," Israel's army said in a statement. One of the UAVs was intercepted, while the others exploded, injuring civilians south of Nahariya city. Sirens were heard in several locations in the Upper Galilee, and an eyewitness told Israel's state-owned Kan TV news that he saw at least two drones flying above a highway before one of them rapidly descended and exploded, scattering shrapnel that injured several people. Masad Barhum, general director of the Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya, told reporters that five people sustained light injuries and one was in a critical condition. Hezbollah assumed responsibility for the drones, saying in a statement that it launched an air attack "with a squadron of suicide drones that targeted the headquarters of the Golani Brigade and the headquarters of the Egoz Unit 621 in the Shraga barracks north of occupied Acre," in response to Israel's attack on southern Lebanon on Monday. Confrontations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army escalated following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, killing Hezbollah senior military commander Fouad Shokor and seven civilians. Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah threatened a definite and painful response to the Israeli raid at the appropriate time and place. Tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border escalated on Oct. 8, 2023, following a barrage of rockets launched by Hezbollah toward Israel in solidarity with Hamas' attack on Israel the day before. Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon. Israeli police work at the scene of a drone attack in northern Israeli city of Nahariya on Aug. 6, 2024. A drone attack launched on Tuesday from Lebanon by Hezbollah forces injured six people in northern Israel, including one who is in critical condition, Israeli sources said. (JINI/Handout via Xinhua) Israeli police work at the scene of a drone attack in northern Israeli city of Nahariya on Aug. 6, 2024. A drone attack launched on Tuesday from Lebanon by Hezbollah forces injured six people in northern Israel, including one who is in critical condition, Israeli sources said. (JINI/Handout via Xinhua) Israeli police work at the scene of a drone attack in northern Israeli city of Nahariya on Aug. 6, 2024. A drone attack launched on Tuesday from Lebanon by Hezbollah forces injured six people in northern Israel, including one who is in critical condition, Israeli sources said. (JINI/Handout via Xinhua) Israeli police work at the scene of a drone attack in northern Israeli city of Nahariya on Aug. 6, 2024. A drone attack launched on Tuesday from Lebanon by Hezbollah forces injured six people in northern Israel, including one who is in critical condition, Israeli sources said. (JINI/Handout via Xinhua) This video screenshot issued by Israeli media shows a drone infiltrating into the airspace in northern Israel, Aug. 6, 2024. A drone attack launched on Tuesday from Lebanon by Hezbollah forces injured six people in northern Israel, including one who is in critical condition, Israeli sources said. (Xinhua) Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and left the country Monday after clashes between student protesters and police left nearly 300 people dead. Army chief General Waker-uz-Zaman announced an interim government and promised to investigate the deaths, urging everyone to remain peaceful. The protests started over a controversial job quota system but escalated due to the government's harsh response. Here is a timeline of events leading up to the prime ministers resignation. July 2: Demonstrations take place in Bangladeshs capital, Dhaka, to demand the cancellation of a quota system in civil service recruitment, which reserves 56% of jobs for people from various categories. Students say this is discriminatory. The demonstrations started after the High Court reinstated the quota system in June, overturning a 2018 government decision to abolish it. While the government appealed the decision to the Supreme Court, students refused to wait for the outcome and demanded a new executive order canceling the quotas. July 10-12: Students stage sit-in demonstrations at various key intersections in the capital and highways outside the city, disrupting traffic on roads, highways and railways. July 14: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina makes comments critical of the students' demands to scrap the quotas for children and grandchildren of war veterans. Students express outrage. July 15: A senior leader of a major political party, the Awami League, tells media that the partys student wing, the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) will give a fitting reply to students. July 15: Activists of BCL attack anti-quota students at Dhaka University and at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, including injured students at the medical college. Over 300 are wounded in the clashes. July 16: Clashes spread and at least six are killed in Dhaka, Chottogram and Rangpur in the north. Ordinary students fight back and drive the BCL group out of Dhaka and Rajshahi Universities and ransack their leaders rooms in university campuses. July 17: Students try to hold absentee funerals for those who were killed, but police attack their gatherings at three universities. University authorities close campuses and order students to vacate their dormitories. July 17: Hasina addresses the nation on television, expresses sorrow over the deaths and announces she will set up a judicial inquiry to hold perpetrators to account. On the matter of quotas, she urges students to wait for the verdict of the Supreme Court and suggests the decision will not disappoint them. Students respond by calling for a complete shutdown of transportation across the country for the next day. July 18: The complete shutdown program sees massive violence in Dhaka and in 19 other districts. At least 29 people are confirmed dead as police and unidentified people open fire including with live bullets, shotgun pellets and rubber bullets. Tens of thousands of students are joined by various other groups of people to enforce the shutdown of transportation. Cars, buses, and the state-run television center in Dhaka are set on fire and the citys Metro Rail transport network is shut down indefinitely. July 19: At least 66 people are killed in clashes involving protesters and police. A mob frees nearly 900 inmates from a jail in central Narsingdi district and loots some 80 firearms and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition. The government declares a nighttime curfew and deploys the army to help maintain order. July 20: At least 21 people are killed in the first day of curfew. The government announces two days of general holiday while leaders of the quota movement and some leaders of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) are detained. July 21: The Supreme Court delivers its verdict in the quota case, abolishing most of the quotas for civil service jobs and leaving 93% of spaces for general applicants. The curfew continues, and seven more people are killed. July 23: The government formalizes the new quota allocation in line with the Supreme Court verdict. But organizers of student protests say its too little, too late, and that too many people have been killed. The Daily Star newspaper puts the death toll at 146. The arrest of opposition leaders continues. July 26: The Detective Branch of Bangladeshs police department picks up three organizers of the student movement. The BNP calls for the ouster of the government. July 27: Diplomatic missions of 14 Western countries in Dhaka issue a joint letter, calling for law enforcers to be held accountable for wrongdoings. The Detective Branch picks up two more organizers of the student movement. Police continue raids to arrest students. July 28: Six organizers of the student movement, while in Detective Branch custody, read out a statement ending their agitation. But their colleagues vow to continue with the movement and protests resume the next day. July 31: The government observes a mourning day in memory of those who lost their lives in the violence, but students reject the day. Supporters of the student movement turn their social media profiles red to show their rejection. Aug. 1: The government issues a notification banning the Jamaat-e-Islami party and its student wing, Islami Chhatra Shibir, as well as its affiliates. The party is accused of being a terrorist entity. Six organizers of the movement are released from police custody. Aug. 3: Student organizers make a demand at a major rally in Dhaka the resignation of Hasina and the formation of a national government headed by a person who is acceptable to all. Hasina offers talks but students reject them. Aug. 4: Widespread clashes break out in Dhaka and in at least 21 districts of the country. Media reports say at least 90 people are killed in the violence. The dead include 13 policemen who are beaten to death by a mob in Sirajganj. The government reimposes an indefinite curfew across the country. Students announce a plan to hold a march to Dhaka from all parts of the country with the aim to force the government to resign. The army and police urge people not to break curfew or defy the law. Aug. 5: Tens of thousands of people from different parts of Dhaka and the surrounding areas defy the curfew to converge on the capitals center. The army initially tries to stop the flow but then allows people to enter. Crowds storm Hasinas official residence. By the afternoon, Hasina hands her resignation letter to President Mohammed Shahabuddin and, along with her sister Sheikh Rehana, flies to neighboring India. Army chief General Waker-uz-Zaman invites several political parties for talks, including Jamaat-e-Islami, which the government had banned only days earlier. The general says an interim government will be formed following consultation with the president. The army chief promises justice for the 300 people who died during the 20 days of violent protests and urges the jubilant crowds to calm down and go home. But groups of people attack several offices of the outgoing ruling party, as well as a museum dedicated to Hasinas father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, a founding father of the country. This story originated in VOAs Bangla service. Heavy rains have triggered building collapses that have killed 17 people in northern Sudan, as the country reels from almost 16 months of fighting between rival security forces, a medic told AFP on Tuesday. "The number of victims has risen to 17," said an employee at a hospital in Abu Hamad, a small town in Sudan's River Nile state, some 400 kilometers north of Khartoum. "The power is out in the city and people are spending the night out in the open, dreading more rainfall," they said, requesting anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media. About 11,500 homes have collapsed, the state's infrastructure minister Samir Saad told reporters Tuesday, and at least 170 people have been injured. Each year in August, peak flow on the Nile River is accompanied by torrential rains, destroying homes, wrecking infrastructure and claiming lives, both directly and indirectly through water-borne diseases. The impact is expected to be worse this year after more than 12 months of fighting that has pushed millions of displaced people into flood zones. "Heavy rains caused most of the houses to collapse and all the shops in the market collapsed," a witness in Abu Hamad told AFP by telephone. Last week, a flash flood caused the deaths of five people in Port Sudan, on the Red Sea coast. Since July 7, torrential rains and flooding have killed more than 30 people across the country, Sudan's federal emergency operations center said Tuesday. According to the United Nations, rain and flooding have displaced more than 21,000 people since June, mostly in areas already reeling from heavy fighting. Aid groups have repeatedly warned that humanitarian access, already hampered by the war, is now being made near-impossible in remote areas as roads flood. Sudan faces what the United Nations has called the world's worst humanitarian crisis in recent memory, as fighting between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces shows no sign of abating. More than 10 million people have been forced from their homes, while the main battlegrounds teeter on the brink of all-out famine. The war has pushed the nearly half a million residents of the Zamzam camp outside the besieged Darfur city of El Fasher into famine, a UN-backed assessment said last week. Russia's Defense Ministry claimed Tuesday that hundreds of Ukrainian soldiers backed by tanks and armored vehicles attacked Russia's southern Kursk region and that Russian forces responded. Ukrainian forces had no comment on the report. "The enemy today launched another attempt to break into the territory of Russia's Kursk region," the latest ministry statement said. "Artillery fire, army aviation strikes and drone strikes are being inflicted on the enemy." Alexei Smirnov, acting governor of Kursk, said five people were killed, according to Reuters, and at least 20 were wounded, including six children. According to the Russians, 300 Ukrainian troops with 11 tanks and 20 armored vehicles attacked the border in the area of Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya. The Russian claims could not be independently verified. Previously, two groups have claimed responsibility for similar attacks in different parts of Russia: The Russian Volunteer Corps and the Freedom of Russia Legion. Both groups were contacted by The Associated Press and had no comment. Meanwhile, Russian forces carried out aerial attacks on multiple parts of Ukraine, officials said earlier Tuesday, including hitting the northeastern city of Kharkiv with a missile. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his daily evening address that one person was killed and 12 people were injured in the attack on Kharkiv. He said a rescue operation in Kharkiv is "still underway" and "people are under the rubble." "We will certainly respond to Russia," the president said. "Russian terror will inevitably be punished." Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said on Telegram the strike damaged a medical clinic and that authorities were working to clarify information about any casualties. Serhiy Lysak, governor of Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region, said on Telegram that Russian drones attacked the city of Nikopol on Tuesday, causing several fires but no injuries. Russian drones also damaged homes in several villages in the Mykolaiv region, Governor Vitaliy Kim said. Ukraine's military said its air defenses shot down four Russian missiles and 15 aerial drones overnight, with intercepts taking place over the Kherson, Khmelnytskyi, Kyiv and Mykolaiv regions. Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko reported on Telegram that falling debris from a downed missile damaged a car park and caused no injuries. Some information for this story was provided by Reuters and The Associated Press. The United States and Australia kicked off high-level talks Tuesday that will focus on China's "coercive behavior," as well as the AUKUS nuclear submarine project, mounting tensions in the Middle East and climate change, officials said. The annual Australia-U.S. AUSMIN talks, taking place in Annapolis, Maryland, include the top defense and diplomatic officials from both nations. "We're working together today to tackle shared security challenges, from coercive behavior by the PRC [People's Republic of China], to Russia's war of choice against Ukraine, to the turmoil in the Middle East," U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said. "And I know that [this] year's AUSMIN will deliver results for both of our peoples." The U.S. and China are at odds on a range of issues, including U.S. support for Taiwan. Another topic will be Chinese military activity in the South China Sea. China claims control over most of the sea, including the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, where U.S. ally the Philippines has maritime claims. Austin spoke in the wake of a rocket strike on Monday in Iraq that wounded seven U.S. personnel, as the Middle East braced for a possible new wave of attacks by Iran and its allies following last week's killing of senior leaders of militant groups Hamas and Hezbollah. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Defense Minister Richard Marles held meetings in Washington on Monday, a day before the AUSMIN talks. Marles highlighted the expanding role of a U.S. Marine rotational force in northern Australia and defense industry cooperation. "We're seeing America's force posture in Australia grow really significantly. AUKUS is part of that, but it's not the only part of that," Marles said in talks with Austin, according to a statement. Under the AUKUS program, Washington will sell three nuclear-powered submarines to Australia in the next decade. Wong said there was bipartisan U.S. political support for the program. U.S. Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy told ABC Television that China and climate change priorities for the Pacific Islands, where the U.S. and Australia are competing with China for security ties would be discussed. "Obviously with China being such an important ... trading partner and competitor for both of us, that is obviously one of the main topics," she said. "We are also talking about what we can do together to fight climate change [and] to help the Pacific Islands to build critical infrastructure to connect them," she said. As part of cooperating on environmental and resource issues, Australia will spend $200 million ($130 million U.S.) to upgrade ground station facilities in its remote central desert to process data from NASA's Landsat Next satellite. Landsat Next is an earth observation program the U.S. space agency says will provide early warnings on the onset of fires or ice melting. The program is scheduled to be launched in 2030. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the satellite data would also be used to target resource exploration in Australia, as the two nations develop a supply chain for critical minerals. The U.S. and its allies are seeking to reduce China's market dominance in rare earths and critical minerals used in electric vehicles and defense technology. The United States accused an Iranian-backed militia of carrying out a rocket attack on a U.S. air base in Iraq that injured seven people, two of whom had to be evacuated for additional medical treatment. "We're sure that it was an Iranian-backed Shia militia group," U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told reporters Tuesday during a news conference in Annapolis, Maryland, with Australian officials. "Specifically which group, we're still investigating," he added. U.S. officials had previously said two rockets slammed into the al-Asad air base in western Iraq during Monday's attack, wounding five service members and two contractors. Despite the need to evacuate two of the injured, officials said all seven were in stable condition. Earlier Tuesday, the Iraqi military said in a statement that it had found the truck and rocket launcher used in the attack in the nearby town of Haditha. It also said it was getting closer to finding the perpetrators. "They are currently being pursued to bring them to justice," the statement said. The attack came as much of the region has been on edge, awaiting a possible attack by Iran and its proxies against Israel in retaliation for the killing of senior members of the Iranian-backed Hezbollah and Hamas terror groups. Austin, though, declined to comment on media reports that Iran's reprisal might be imminent. "I'm not going to speculate on any Iranian actions going forward," he said. "What I've been focused on is making sure that we're doing everything we can to put measures in place to protect our troops, and also make sure that we're in a good position to aid in the in the defense of Israel if called upon to do that." Austin announced Friday that the Pentagon was sending additional warships, an aircraft carrier strike group, and additional fighter jets to the region to prepare for an Iranian attack, as well starting preparations to send land-based missile defense capabilities, if needed. Speaking alongside Austin on Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged all parties in the region to seek calm. "It is manifestly in the interests of everyone involved to avoid escalation, to avoid the conflict spreading," he told reporters. "I believe that actually no one wants escalation, no one wants to see the conflict spread," Blinken added. "But it's very important that no one takes steps that could lead to that, even if it's unintended." Some U.S. partners in the Middle East appear to be heeding that call. In its statement Tuesday, the Iraqi military condemned the rocket attack on the al-Asad air base as irresponsible. "We reject all reckless actions and practices targeting Iraqi bases, diplomatic missions, and the whereabouts of the international coalition's advisers, and everything that would raise tension in the region," the Iraqi statement said. Iraq hosts about 2,500 U.S. troops tasked with advising and assisting Iraqi forces as they pursue the remnants of the Islamic State group, also known as ISIS, or Daesh. But Iraq is also home to numerous Iranian-backed militias, some of which have been consulting with Tehran about the anticipated retaliation against Israel. Additionally, there has been periodic tension between Washington and Baghdad. The U.S. and Iraq have been engaged in recent, ongoing talks to eventually end the anti-IS mission and transition to what officials have described as a bilateral military partnership. Some information from Reuters was used in this report. A senior U.N. humanitarian official said Tuesday that the confirmation of famine in parts of Sudans Darfur region must serve as a wakeup call for the international community. There must now be a coordinated diplomatic effort to address the widespread operational challenges and impediments that aid agencies are facing, as we try to reach the millions of Sudanese people in abject need, said Stephen Omollo, World Food Programs assistant executive director. WFP and other humanitarian agencies and organizations have been warning since March that famine was imminent. On Friday, their worst fears were realized when international food monitors confirmed that more than a year of war has pushed parts of North Darfur into famine and 14 other areas are at risk of famine in the coming months. Fighting between rival generals leading the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces for the last 15 months has propelled the country into the current humanitarian crisis, in which 26 million people are in crisis levels of hunger across Sudan. Omollo, who briefed an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council convened to discuss the confirmation of famine, said more than 750,000 people are currently in catastrophic levels of hunger, and an estimated 730,000 children are projected to suffer the most life-threatening form of malnutrition. A cease-fire remains the only sustainable solution that will prevent the further spread of famine, he said in a video link from WFP headquarters in Rome. Edem Wosornu, the director of operations and advocacy for the U.N. Department of Humanitarian Affairs, told the council that the announcement of famine should stop all of us cold. Because when famine happens, it means we are too late, she said. It means we did not do enough. It means that we, the international community, have failed. She said the United Nations and its partners are exploring every avenue to scale up aid to the most affected communities, including the use of airdrops, which are a method of last resort for humanitarians because of their high cost and inefficiency. But we cannot go very far without the access and resources we need, she said. Aid workers in Sudan continue to be harassed, attacked and even killed. Convoys of life-saving supplies such as food and medicine, as well as fuel, have been subjected to looting and extortion. And this, of course, must stop. Humanitarians say they face constant obstacles from both warring parties, including insecurity, restrictions on cross-border and frontline access, visa delays, delayed permissions, looting and other difficulties in reaching vulnerable communities. Access needed The United Nations has repeatedly called for the opening of the Adre border crossing between Chad and West Darfur, so they can reach the most desperate people in North Darfur. The government of Sudan has been reluctant to open the crossing, accusing its rival the RSF of using Adre to smuggle in arms, fuel and logistical support under cover of humanitarian aid. Sudanese ambassador Al-Harith Mohamed said his government is not blocking aid and suggested that humanitarians should use another crossing, at Tine, on the northwest border of Sudan with Chad. It has been authorized to serve as a hub for the collection of aid to be distributed to the rest of region, he said. He noted that if Adre needed to be open on an emergency basis, it should first be approved by the government. Mohamed also disputed that there is famine in Darfur, saying the declaration was made as a political punishment because they will not open the Adre crossing. He said a local humanitarian commission recently visited the displacement camp in North Darfur where the experts say famine has taken hold and found the situation is stable and that there have been no deaths or starvation among the camp population. U.N. and international aid groups, medical workers and civil society organizations have been reporting and raising the alarm for months on hunger-related deaths, particularly of babies and small children. On August 14, the United States is convening proximity talks in Geneva, Switzerland, and has invited both the leaders of the RSF and SAF to attend in order to discuss a potential cease-fire. Forty-four African human rights and civil society organizations say they are deeply concerned about the severe restriction of civic space and the systematic erosion of fundamental freedoms in Zimbabwe. In a two-page statement detailing current and recent human rights violations, the organizations drawn from nations like South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia and others said the recent escalation in state-sponsored repression, characterized by abductions, arbitrary arrests and unjust denial of bail, torture, and harassment of human rights activists and opposition political members, represents a profoundly disturbing trend. They noted that the repressive environment is particularly concerning ahead of the 44th session of the Southern African Development Community Summit of Heads of State and Government scheduled for 17 August 2024. It constitutes a direct assault on the fundamental rights of Zimbabwean citizens and an egregious violation of democratic principles and international standards. The organizations said the brutalization of Zimbabwe National Students Union members recently in Harare, the arrest of civic society leaders Vusumuzi Moyo, Namatai Kwekweza, Samuel Gwenzi and Robson Chere and also 78 Citizens Coalition for Change activists is part of a broader and deeply troubling pattern of intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and victimization of civic groups and the opposition. They cited many other incidents centering on abuse of power that have happened since the holding of the 2023 general elections, which include the incarceration of opposition leader Job Sikhala for nearly 600 days in jail where he was frequently denied bail, chained in leg irons and kept in solitary confinement and brutalization of Obert Masaraure, leader of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe, and the extrajudicial killing of CCC activist Tapfumaneyi Masaya. According to the African human rights organizations, the judiciary and law enforcement agencies are being weaponized to prosecute and persecute political opponents, signaling an alarming escalation of domestic repression. These incidents highlight the ongoing injustices against defenseless citizens and the relentless shrinking of democratic space. They reminded Mnangagwas government of its obligations under Article 4 of the SADC Treaty which requires its member states to act in accordance with the principles of human rights, democracy and the rule of law. Section 44 of the Zimbabwe Constitution mandates the respect, protection, promotion and fulfulment of the rights of freedom of assembly and association as specified in Section 58. They noted that peoples rights and freedoms are also protected under the Universal Declation of Human Rights, African Charter and other treaties and international conventions. Gatherrings of student unions, political parties and civil society organizations have never poised a security threat. We demand a clear and coherent explanation from the authorities for such heavy-handed actions, which only serve to heighten unnecessary security fears ahead of the SADC Summit. Mnangagwas spokesperson George Charamba, Information Minister Jenfan Muswere and Information Secretary Nick Mangwana were unreachable for comment as they were not responding to calls on their mobile phones. Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights reports that the four arrested civic society leaders, one of them severely tortured by suspected state security agents, will remain in custody as a Harare magistrate on Thursday indicated that state prosecutors were not yet in a position to present their case in court. In a message on X, the lawyers said, Pro-democracy campaigners @namataik , @robohchere, @cdegwenzi remain in prison detention as their bail hearing proceedings were conducted Tuesday & rolled over to Wednesday. By Carla Babb The U.S. has completed its withdrawal of military forces and assets from its last military base in Niger, the U.S. Department of Defense and the Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of Niger announced in a joint statement Monday. The completion marks the end of the United States counterterrorism mission in the country, even as violent extremism continues to increase across the Sahel region. Only a handful of American military personnel are still in Niger, a U.S. defense official told VOA following the announcement. Those who remain are working out of the embassy, including the top American officer overseeing the effort, Maj. Gen. Kenneth Ekman. Its not mission complete yet because of a few administrative tasks, but for practical purposes, both bases are now in Nigerien hands, a U.S. defense official told VOA on Monday following the announcement. The effort formally began on May 19, when U.S. and Nigerien leaders agreed to a phased withdrawal of American forces from Niger after being in the country for more than a decade. Fight against radical Islam American forces were deployed in Niger to help local militaries combat Islamist terrorists in the Sahel. At the time, officials set a mid-September deadline for the withdrawals completion. The U.S. military base in Niamey, known as Air Base 101, was turned over to Niger forces in July. Air Base 201 in Agadez was handed over to Nigerien forces on Monday. The effective cooperation and communication between the U.S. and Nigerien armed forces ensured that this turnover was finished ahead of schedule and without complications, the U.S. and Niger militaries said in the joint statement. The U.S. had used the two military bases to monitor various terror groups, including Islamic State and al-Qaida. Air Base 201 in Agadez cost the U.S. $110 million to build, and the U.S. began its drone operations there in 2019. Nigers natural resources have increased its importance to global powers, and its location had provided the U.S. with the ability to conduct counterterror operations throughout much of West Africa. Countries in the region, including Niger, Mali, Nigeria and Burkina Faso, have seen an expansive rise in jihadi movements. According to the Global Terrorism Index, an annual report covering terrorist incidents worldwide, more than half of the deaths caused by terrorism last year were in the Sahel. Nigers neighbor, Burkina Faso, suffered the most, with 1,907 fatalities from terrorism in 2023. U.S. officials have acknowledged the loss of the two bases in Niger is a blow to its counterterrorism efforts and the broader security situation in the Sahel. Unless the U.S. can find another base to use in West Africa, counterterror drones will likely have to spend most of their fuel supply flying thousands of kilometers from U.S. bases in Italy or Djibouti, severely limiting their time over the targets and their ability to gather intelligence. Discussions are underway with other West African nations, but the talks are still in the very early stages, according to senior U.S. defense officials who spoke to reporters about the sensitive national security efforts on the condition of anonymity. Coup forced withdrawal Tensions between the U.S. and Niger began in 2023 when Nigers military junta removed the democratically elected president from power. After months of delay, the Biden administration formally declared in October that the military takeover in Niger was a coup, a determination that prevented Niger from receiving a significant amount of U.S. military and foreign assistance. In March, after tense meetings between U.S. representatives and Niger's ruling military council, known as the CNSP, the junta called the U.S. military presence illegal and announced it was ending an agreement that allowed American forces to be based in the country. During that meeting, the U.S. and Niger fundamentally disagreed about Nigers desire to supply Iran with uranium and work more closely with Russian military forces. One of Ballerina Farms Instagram videos. Photo: @ballerinafarm via Instagram The internet wants Hannah Neeleman to be freed from her life as a tradwife. If youre into the mommy-blogger corner of social media or have ever fallen down a tradwife rabbit hole, then you know Neeleman as Ballerina Farm, but if not, heres the gist: She has many children (eight), her husband is the son of a billionaire, she was formerly a ballerina in New York City, and she currently competes in beauty pageants. In late July, a profile of Neeleman and her seemingly simple life from the Times of London sparked discourse over the reporters portrayal of Neeleman as someone trapped in the fantasy of her very rich husband, Daniel, the son of JetBlue founder David Neeleman. In what will surely soon be an Erin Lee Carr HBO docuseries or a one-season limited series on Hulu starring a recognizable blonde actress in an egg apron, here are all the details you need to know about the Ballerina Farm semi-controversy. When did Hannah Neeleman become Ballerina Farm? Hannah married Daniel Neeleman in 2011, just before her senior year at Julliard. They purchased the farm in Kamas, Utah, that would become the Ballerina Farm in 2018. Of course, no one with any sense just runs a farm in private anymore; you also need to make farm content, which is what has made her famous enough (9.8 million Instagram followers and 9.5 million TikTok followers) to warrant the July 20 profile in the Times of London that called her the Queen of the Tradwives. This subculture has had its moment online, but for anyone new here: Tradwives are traditional women who forgo having jobs in order to be stay-at-home moms. But online, Tradwives are a genre of content creators who do chores and cook food in videos, ostensibly for the benefit of their husbands and children. Despite the label often being applied to her thanks to the fact that her posts usually center around doing stuff for her family, Ballerina Farm actually has three full-time employees on the farm, thirty at the warehouse, more than ten in the office, and a creative director who manages the website visuals, according to the Times profile. Why did the profile upset people? While Hannahs content presents an image of someone who blissfully cooks dinner from scratch on an idyllic farm while her eight kids behave, the profile paints a more harrowing portrait that of a woman who pushes herself to do beauty pageants just weeks after giving birth without drugs, who yearns for her past as a ballerina, who sometimes cant get out of bed for a week because shes so tired, and who is married to a potentially controlling husband. Daniel wanted to live in the great western wilds, so they did, the profile reads. He wanted to farm, so they do; he likes date nights once a week, so they go (they have a babysitter on those evenings); he didnt want nannies in the house, so there arent any. The only space earmarked to be [Hannah]s own a small barn she wanted to convert into a ballet studio ended up becoming the kids schoolroom. Readers were upset, both by the thought that a woman is being forced to live in rural Utah as well as the anti-feminism narrative of her giving up her dream career to be a mother. The conversation has been so loud across social media (look up the egg apron video for thousands of women weighing in on what birthday gifts theyd demand from their husband if they were billionaires) that the Times was moved to publish a follow-up piece on July 29 in which the reporter, Megan Agnew, gave more behind-the-scenes details from her visit to the farm. She also appeared on a Times Radio podcast episode on July 31 to address the discourse. What did Hannah say about the profile and the internets reaction to it? Hannah responded to the discourse on July 31 by posting a series of clips of herself working out with her husband while she explains in voiceover that, actually, she loves the life that she chose. Shes made it clear she considers the piece an attack on her family. Just two hours after that video, she posted her own version of her life story on the Ballerina Farm website. In it, she clarifies that while she did give up ballet, her husband also gave up playing lacrosse at Brigham Young University. So who will play her in the inevitable limited series about all this mess? If the project is serious, it will be Jennifer Lawrence or Anya Taylor-Joy. If the project is silly, were looking at a Sydney Sweeney or a Lily-Rose Depp gazing into some serious distances over a synth-pop soundtrack. Its also entirely possible that this is the project Lily James has been waiting for all her life, but shed have to fight Amanda Seyfried for it. Dedicated drone area added for 1st time to Airshow China 08:48, August 06, 2024 By Liu Xuanzun ( Global Times This photo taken on Nov. 10, 2022 shows a CH-6 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) displayed at the 14th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, in Zhuhai. (Photo: Xinhua) China's largest aviation and aerospace exhibition will for the first time add a dedicated area for unmanned systems amid fast development and military applications of drones, with experts saying on Monday that China's drone technologies and industrial capabilities have reached a very high level. The 15th China International Aviation &Aerospace exhibition, scheduled to be held from November 12 to 17 in Zhuhai, South China's Guangdong Province, held a 100-day countdown ceremony on Sunday as preparations entered their final stage, according to a press release posted by the event's social media account on Sunday. Also known in short as Airshow China or Zhuhai Airshow, the exhibition of this year will be the largest ever, featuring 13 halls, 120,000 square meters of indoor areas and 230,000 square meters of outdoor areas, according to the press release. The expo will for the first time add an unmanned system demonstration area, consisting of an area for unmanned surface vessels and an area for unmanned aerial vehicles. Unmanned aerial vehicles will deliver flight performances, and equipment such as a "land aircraft carrier" drone will make global debuts. Air shows often reflect development trends in aviation technologies and equipment. Now, unmanned systems, both civilian or military, have become a very important direction in which technologies develop, Wang Ya'nan, chief editor of Beijing-based Aerospace Knowledge magazine, told the Global Times on Monday. In recent regional conflicts, the world has seen drones playing very effective roles to an extent that they have already changed the ways wars are fought, Wang said. The new addition to Airshow China indicates how much China values drone technologies, Wang said. "It also shows that China has reached a very high level in terms of drone technologies and industrial capabilities, or there will not be many items to display on such a big show," he said. Drones aside, some 800 Chinese and foreign exhibitors will bring some of their most cutting-edge products to this year's air show. In particular, Chinese firms will display China's innovative achievements in the fields of aviation, aerospace and national defense, and some of the items will make their public appearances for the first time, per the press release. After eight years of absence, the Russian Knights aerobatic demonstration team will send six Su-35S fighter jets to join the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force's Bayi and Red Falcon aerobatic teams in flight performances at Airshow China, the event organizer announced. (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Liang Jun) A joint venture to facilitate the export of green energy from Central Asia to Europe will be established in Baku, according to Orkhan Zeynalov, Deputy Minister of Energy of Azerbaijan, Azernews reports citing Kazakh media. This announcement was made during the inaugural meeting of energy ministers from Central Asian countries in Kazakhstan. Zeynalov confirmed that a technical assignment for a preliminary feasibility study, conducted in collaboration with the Italian consulting firm CESI, has been approved. "The working group has reached an agreement to form a joint venture in Baku. Azerbaijan anticipates that this export corridor will diversify the electricity markets of Central Asian nations. These initiatives are expected to enhance energy security, advance the development of the Middle Corridor, and strengthen integration between Azerbaijan and Central Asian countries," Zeynalov stated. It is noteworthy that on December 17, 2022, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania, and Hungary signed a strategic partnership agreement to construct an energy bridge from the Caucasus to Europe. This agreement includes the development of a Black Sea Energy submarine cable with a capacity of 1,000 MW, spanning 1,195 kilometers. The cable will transport green electricity from Azerbaijan through Georgia and the Black Sea to Romania, with further distribution to Hungary and other European regions. This project aims to supply up to four gigawatts of green energy. Smoke rises after an Israeli airstrike in Khiam, Lebanon, Aug. 6, 2024. Five people were killed and four others injured on Tuesday in Israeli airstrikes on two Lebanese villages, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. The military sources, who spoke anonymously, said that an Israeli drone targeted a house in the southern village of Maifadoun with two air-to-ground missiles, killing five people and wounding three others. The sources added that another airstrike targeted a house in the southeast village of Khiam, wounding a civilian, who was later transferred to the Marjeyoun Governmental Hospital. (Photo by Taher Abu Hamdan/Xinhua) BEIRUT, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Five people were killed and four others injured on Tuesday in Israeli airstrikes on two Lebanese villages, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. The military sources, who spoke anonymously, said that an Israeli drone targeted a house in the southern village of Maifadoun with two air-to-ground missiles, killing five people and wounding three others. Casualties were transported to Ragheb Harb Hospital in the city of Nabatieh. The sources added that another airstrike targeted a house in the southeast village of Khiam, wounding a civilian, who was later transferred to the Marjeyoun Governmental Hospital. A state of caution prevails in Lebanon following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs in late July, killing Hezbollah senior military commander Fouad Shokor and seven civilians. Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah threatened a definite and painful response to the Israeli raid at "the appropriate time and place." Tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border escalated on Oct. 8, 2023, following a barrage of rockets launched by the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah toward Israel in solidarity with Hamas' attack on Israel the day before. Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon. Smoke rises after an Israeli airstrike in Khiam, Lebanon, Aug. 6, 2024. Five people were killed and four others injured on Tuesday in Israeli airstrikes on two Lebanese villages, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. The military sources, who spoke anonymously, said that an Israeli drone targeted a house in the southern village of Maifadoun with two air-to-ground missiles, killing five people and wounding three others. The sources added that another airstrike targeted a house in the southeast village of Khiam, wounding a civilian, who was later transferred to the Marjeyoun Governmental Hospital. (Photo by Taher Abu Hamdan/Xinhua) ISLAMABAD, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan will emphasize the urgency of peace and provision of relief assistance for Gaza in the upcoming Organization of Islamic Cooperation's (OIC) meeting, the Pakistani Foreign Ministry has said. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will attend the Extraordinary Meeting of the OIC convened at the request of Palestine and Iran in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah on Wednesday, the ministry said in a statement on Monday. He will present the South Asian country's serious concerns about the dire situation in Gaza and the wider Middle East region, it added. "As one of the staunchest supporters of the Palestinian cause, Pakistan has always been at the forefront in raising its voice at all international fora, including the OIC," the statement said. While the Spraoi festival in Waterford was as successful as ever and brought thousands of people to the city it also served as a catalyst to enhance cultural connections between the Deise city and a small town in Germany. Taiko drummers travelled from the Markischer Kreis region there to take part in the annual Spraoi festival. The drummers are students at Taiko-Dojo Monika Volmer School in Hermer, a small town in the Markischer Kreis region, that recently twinned with Waterford. They were a fantastic addition to the rich and varied programme of events on offer over the Bank Holiday weekend in Waterford. Taiko are hollow, barrel-shaped wooden drums that have been an integral part of Japanese culture since as early as 10,000BC. Taiko drummers from Germany performing in Waterford Traditionally in Japan, the unique sound of the taiko drum served as a boundary marker. They also acted as a motivating rallying cry for soldiers. Samurais were sent into battle against the backdrop of powerful, monotonous drumbeats delivered by armies of drummers. Today the Taiko drum accompanies prayer ceremonies in temples, is a key section in vibrant and colourful parades, and can be heard throughout towns and villages during all kinds of festival and event celebrations. Mayor of Waterford City and County, Councillor Jason Murphy, welcomed the Taiko drummers to Waterford for their performance during the Spraoi festival and in doing so said: "The students of Taiko-Dojo Monika Volmer School in Hermer are honouring a millennia-old Japanese tradition, and we are very fortunate to get to experience the powerful and rhythmic energy of the taiko drummers here in Waterford, particularly during Spraoi weekend." "Its also a great opportunity to further our links with Markischer Kreis in Germany, as our two regions are enjoying a relatively new twinning arrangement and look forward to working together in the future with the shared goal of making Waterford and Markischer regions where people will continue to live, work, visit and invest in," he said. Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Jason Murphy and Monika Volmer Monika Volmer, the leader of the Taiko drummers, was delighted to visit Waterford and showcase a long-standing Japanese tradition in Waterford. As we build on the relationship between Waterford and Markischer Kreis, being able to share the breadth of cultural talent and diversity that we have in Markischer Kreis with our friends in Waterford is a wonderful experience," she said. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Waterford City & County Council said: "This latest example of the twinning partnership between Waterford and Markischer Kreis was a great success and the drummers enhanced what was a fantastic weekend of performances by Spraoi." During her set on Saturday, Natasha Bedingfield explained to the Curraghmore crowds that Ireland was the first country where she garnered a Number One hit record, for her song Single which released 20 years ago. She professed to the large ensemble from the Main Stage: Im feeling Sinead OConnor out here. There are so many incredible music artists that come from here. I just want to say the Irish know whats up before everyone else does. I released my very first single in Ireland first. That was my very first number one in the world, it was in Ireland. I just want to say thank you all, this country really means a lot to me. You put me on the map. Her riveting vocal performance was perhaps unmatched across the entire weekend, triumphantly executing her own iconic hits alongside a blend of recognizable pop anthems from Prince, The Weeknd and Coldplay, prompting a fantastic crowd reaction during an entirely sun-soaked set. Dundalk band, The Mary Wallopers, overcame some early mic issues to present a boisterous and unruly performance. The group hammered out trad tunes, riling up the crowds with a considerable amount of politically driven content the church, far right protests, immigration and class. Excitement reached maximum capacity by the final tune, by which time the crowd broke into a raucous and energy infused push around. Other highlights included The National, who returned to familiar territory at Curraghmore, having performed at the festival at previous chapters. Frontman, Matt Berninger made himself at one with the crowd, regularly walking from the stage to interact and create impromptu props from clothing handed to him from spectators. The Wailers set on Sunday was a celebration of unity and the remembrance of an icon. The performance included all of Marleys most popular tunes, with the crowd energized and engaged throughout. The seven members bowed at the front of the stage during the finale to a strong response. As a constant drizzle descended, Future Islands took to the Main Stage, with frontman Samuel T Herring impressing with his dance moves despite explaining to the crowd how slippery the stage was. The Prodigy closed the festival with an expected high tempo performance, matched with an impressive laser and strobe offering and lively performance from Maxim. There was a brief reference to former band member Keith Flint who died in 2019, when an outline of him donning his recognizable nineties hairstyle appeared on the big screens. Pressure is mounting on the ABC to end its legal stoush with Antoinette Lattouf, with unionised staff issuing a renewed push for the broadcaster to drop its costly defence and settle with the sacked stand-in radio host. The ABC has rejected Lattoufs recent settlement request of $85,000, a public apology and reinstatement as a fill-in radio presenter, and put forward an undisclosed counter-offer. Lattouf brought the action against the ABC after the dismissal, and the national broadcaster is defending itself. The ABCs union house committee is calling on management to drop its case against Antoinette Lattouf. Credit: Marija Ercegovac The ABCs national union house committee said union members at the broadcaster were extremely disappointed to learn management had rejected Lattoufs modest settlement offer, calling on chair Kim Williams and his board to intervene should management seek to continue its defence. Our city does this dining experience better than most places in the world, except maybe Paris, writes Besha Rodell. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share On a recent rainy weekend afternoon, a young, elegantly dressed couple sat in the window of Mon Ami in Fitzroy, holding hands over glasses of red wine. The room dark wood, lace curtains, specials scrawled on a well-worn blackboard was cosy, all five tables occupied. As always, the restaurant had only two workers, the chef, John Langevad, sequestered in his tiny kitchen, and his wife and waitress/hostess/bartender Ulla working the front of the house. For 21 years Mon Ami has operated this way, the couple serving a menu of classic French dishes, with a particular focus on duck. The place is dripping in charm. There is no wine list. Instead, you can peruse a wall of wine at the back of the restaurant, during which time youre likely to strike up a conversation with whoever is sitting closest its cosiness encourages sociability. Husband-and-wife team John and Ulla Langevad at Mon Ami in Fitzroy. Luis Enrique Ascui When I mention the restaurant to people, they often say, Oh, is that the place on Nicholson Street? Theyve noticed the awning from the 96 tram, for instance, and maybe wondered about it. But theyve never heard anything much about the place, so it exists only as a passing curiosity. Mon Ami rarely gets written up on lists of Melbournes best French restaurants, which is perhaps because its fallen comfortably into its role as a neighbourhood staple the type of place where the regulars are loyal and new customers are rare and also because Langevads cooking is neither completely old-school nor new and trendy, falling somewhere in between. But Mon Ami does something quite magical, something that I notice in many of Melbournes mid-tier, under-sung French restaurants but which Ive not seen anywhere else in the world: It channels Paris in an almost astonishing way. Advertisement The City of Light is full of restaurants like Mon Ami: tiny, run by a couple or a family, romantic but not chic, not particularly ambitious or exciting but nevertheless lovely and comforting. These are not places that wind up on lists for travellers youre much more likely to stumble onto them by accident, or on the recommendation of a friend, who might quantify their endorsement with something like, Its not wildly impressive, but its quintessential to the neighbourhood and I adore it. France-Soir transports diners to a neighbourhood bistro in Paris. Simon Schluter In Melbourne, France-Soir is probably the best known of these types of restaurants in my recent review of the 38-year-old South Yarra stalwart I wrote, This really does feel like a neighbourhood bistro in Paris, right down to the uneven cooking. But many other, lesser-known spots perform this same magic trick, transporting diners to France in a way that feels miraculous. Many of Melbournes mid-tier French restaurants channel Paris in an almost astonishing way. In Carlton, Paris Go has been operating since 1993. (Im told Paris go is French slang for busy Parisians, always on the go.) On weekend nights its double-fronted dining room, with its white tablecloths and vintage French posters, is packed with in-the-know regulars. Advertisement Again, the wonder of this place is in the details that put it squarely in a Parisian neighbourhood: the menus, sleeved in plastic; the waiters, all French and a tad aloof; the menu, full of dishes that are standards in France but arent as easy to find here. The French onion soup is a bit underwhelming, just as it was when I had it on a rainy afternoon in Paris at a random bistro I stopped into with my father two decades ago, but many other dishes are done very well. The seafood quenelles in prawn sauce, the assiette froide (a plate of silky cured ocean trout, chicken liver pate and pork and veal terrine), the grilled sardines with olive oil, all channel the deep pleasure of eating in Paris at an un-trendy but beloved-by-locals bistro. Chef Cesar Henry at Ouest France Bistro in Mornington. Wayne Taylor The same is true of Franco-Belge in Hawthorn East, Chez Bob in Armadale, Ouest France in Mornington and countless other unassuming spots that lack grandeur or vogueishness but do what they do exceptionally well. The mystery of these places is how they can remain so popular while also flying under the radar why, in this food-obsessed city, do we ignore these neighbourhood favourites? Are we ashamed to admit that sometimes we want the comfort of the familiar, rather than the new and shiny? Are we still afraid that our tastes are perhaps a bit quotidian, rather than always fresh, always modern, always cutting-edge? Melbournes traditional French bistros, such as Chez Bob (pictured), have Besha Rodells heart. Advertisement When it comes to French food, I suppose comfort isnt the first thing that comes to mind. We want elegance, grandeur, pomp! And many restaurants in Melbourne deliver that kind of French experience you can find them on all of those best French restaurants lists Ive been scouring recently. I adore those spots, too, when Im in the mood for a sense of occasion. But more often you can find me tucked into a table at Mon Ami, pretending Im in Paris, feeling utterly transported. The canard et truffe (duck with truffle) dish at Mon Ami restaurant in Fitzroy. Luis Enrique Ascui Melbournes great mid-tier, under-sung French bistros Mon Ami Tiny charming corner storefront serving French and Scandinavian dishes with a few different preparations of duck. 144 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy, monamirestaurant.com.au Paris Go White tablecloths, mildly annoyed French waiters, good cooking, cold sancerre. 116 Rathdowne Street, Carlton, parisgo.com.au Chez Bob Classic French menu, charming courtyard. 22 Beatty Avenue, Armadale, chezbobsite.wordpress.com Franco-Belge All the standards like escargot and French onion soup, but also Flemish beef casserole and a variety of mussel preparations. 9 Evans Place, Hawthorn East, francobelge.com.au Bistro Thierry It says it right on the website: the owners set out to create a culinary museum. The walls, crowded with French prints, the classic bistro menu, and the lively feel of the place do just that. 511 Malvern Road, Toorak, bistrothierry.com Bon Ap Petit Bistro This place channels places in Paris that Id categorise as more touristy, but channel them it does. Daily happy hour ($12 champagne!), more casual atmosphere. 193 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, bonap.com.au Ouest France Opened in 2022 by a France-Soir alum originally from Brittany, this tiny Mornington Peninsula bistro is as charming as they come. 180 Main Street, Mornington, ouestfrance.com.au The classic bistro dish, steak frites, from Mornington bistro Ouest France. Wayne Taylor Read more From Paris with love: Five foodie Francophiles share their dining, bakery and fromagerie favourites Your employer is wrong; whether you are salaried or being paid an award wage is irrelevant to whether they need to comply with the new right-to-disconnect laws . The laws, which come into effect from August 26 this year for any business with more than 15 employees, will mean employees have a right to refuse contact with their employer outside of work hours unless it is deemed unreasonable to do so (for example, if you are on call or being paid to work outside ordinary hours). My employer says the new right-to-disconnect law doesnt apply in my workplace since we are all salaried employees, not on minimum wage. My company wont even acknowledge the spirit and intent of the legislation. Is this correct? What does this new law mean for those of us on a salary? To be clear, there is no penalty for an employer sending an email or trying to call you after hours, but you have the right not to respond, and you cant be penalised for exercising that right. Your employer should check the advice for employers being offered by the Australian HR Institute to comply with this change. Best-practice employers have been following the spirit and intent of these ideas for years so if your employer thinks contacting you constantly outside of usual work hours is OK, that is a serious concern. Im in my early 60s and have been working at the same place for more than 15 years. The role has changed significantly, in a good way, and has provided challenges and kept me motivated. Over the last year, though, that motivation has waned. I need to work full-time for at least another few years because of debt. The likelihood of getting another job is very low. Apart from grinning and bearing it, any suggestions? Loading It sounds like you have a secure job, which will hopefully see you through to retirement, so I can understand why you wouldnt want to leave. My first thought is to speak with your boss about how you are feeling. They obviously value you, so I wonder if it might help to tell them how much you love the company, how keen you are to keep adding value until the day you retire in some years time, and how you have appreciated the changes they have made to the role over time. I would then suggest some ideas for how that might continue. Do you have thoughts in mind for other responsibilities you could take on or switch up in your current role? Second, have you spoken with someone like a psychologist or a service like Lifeline about how you are feeling? As you come to the end of your career and have other life changes, you could benefit from talking to someone. If your employer offers an EAP service, you could try and access help through that. TIRANA, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Seventeen West Nile fever cases were identified in Albania, with three confirmed dead, the Institute of Public Health (IPH) of Albania has reported. The country's health authority updated on Tuesday that nine seniors over 70 were hospitalized due to the West Nile virus. Following the IPH's report on Monday, Silvia Bino, head of the Control of Infectious Diseases Department of the Institute of Public Health, urged the public to "stay calm but be alert" in the face of the virus. According to her update to local media, 80 percent of infected people show no symptoms, while 20 percent have fever or pain; however, only 1 percent develop severe symptoms. The cases were primarily detected in July; all three deceased individuals were over 62 years old. The report highlighted that elderly citizens, particularly those with underlying health issues, are more susceptible to the infection. The cases have been mainly found in the city municipality of Lushnja and Fier, Kurbin, and Berat districts. Eugena Tomini, director of the institute, explained to local media that the viral infection is a non-communicable zoonotic disease mainly circulating in birds and affects the human nervous system. The virus can be transmitted to humans by mosquito bites. Symptoms of the disease include fever or severe muscle pain, intense headache, and skin marks. The institute warns that West Nile virus infection can be confused with seasonal flu and advises inhabitants to be cautious of the symptoms and take extra measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Albania experienced an outbreak of West Nile fever in 2012 and saw some cases in 2017 and 2018. Ednitem Located on the wild and rugged coastline between Otago and Southland in NZs deepest south, the Catlins arent any fair weather travellers dream destination. Picture instead a windy, desolate coast where the countrys biggest waves break (bring your surfboard if youre a hero, waves up to five-metres high break here), where seals and sea lions patrol, and where barely a thousand people live, spread across 2000 square kilometres of prime Aotearoa. Take at least two days to really see this spectacular region, exploring giant sea caves and massive waterfalls cascading straight out of thick, unspoilt temperate rainforest, beside rolling green pastures and rocky bays. Book a farm stay or a cottage by the sea, but think rustic; forget luxury. This piece of the country bulging out of the east coast of the North Island offers one of the best road trip options in the whole country and yet, its also one of the most skipped routes. Out here north of the east coasts second most populated town, Gisborne youll find New Zealands best beaches, the longest wharf in the country, where youll meet eccentric locals gone fishing, oodles of Maori culture to study (such as carvings in the tiny local churches) and the highest non-volcanic mountain in the North Island. There are some great wilderness accommodation options and some of the best camping grounds in the country. There are fewer dining options and tourism operators but limitless adventure opportunities here in the shadow of Mt Hikurangi, from hiking mountain trails to bay-hopping by mountain bike. Marlborough Sounds Loading Theres so much more to this region than its world-famous sauvignon blanc yet few tourists ever go beyond its wineries (if they even make it here at all). The Marlborough Sounds are a collection of ancient sunken river valleys now filled with the Pacific Ocean, home to 1500 kilometres of pristine, mostly deserted coastline equal to about one-tenth of the length of the entire NZ coastline. Its sparsely populated, with some of its small settlements only reachable by boat. Made up of many long sheltered inlets, surrounded by forest with clear water for swimming and kayaking, this is also one of the best regions in the country for hiking (the iconic 70-kilometre-long Queen Charlotte Track runs through its heart). Hire a boat or kayak or even charter a yacht though youll also find some stunning luxury lodges and more down-homey options with plenty of charm. Youre never far from nature the region has more than 50 reserves. Forgotten World Highway Do it in three hours or three days. Whatever you do, dont forget NZs Forgotten World Highway (as most travellers do). Running for 155 kilometres in the North Islands central-west, this highway is more like a trip through time on the countrys oldest heritage trail. Youll drive through tunnels hand-carved by pickaxes through subtropical rainforest as you climb three saddles on the most scenic of New Zealands world-famous scenic roads. And this one took a staggering 50 years to build. Get set for misty panoramas among slow-moving rivers and deep gorges and waterfalls that plunge straight down by the roadway (such as Mt Damper Falls, one of the countrys highest). Youll either finish or start in Stratford, a Shakespearean-inspired town whose streets are named after Shakespeares best-loved characters. Also consider visiting Egmont National Park right next door, NZs most accessible wilderness area. If it wasnt for their sterling success in fattening their own salaries, Id be tempted to feel sorry for the nations vice chancellors. Theyve been screwed around for years by federal governments of both colours, and the mess theyre in some of which they try to cover up gets ever deeper. Theyre another victim of our decades-long dalliance with neoliberalism. But now the task is to sort out this and other messes a misguided experiment has left us with. Illustration by Simon Letch Credit: Successive federal governments have engineered a kind of backdoor privatisation of our universities. They remain owned by the states and heavily regulated by the feds, but have increasingly been told to pay their own way. The feds have sought to greatly increase the proportion of school-leavers going on to university, but limit the cost to their own budget. Theyve done this partly by requiring students to cover some of the cost of providing their degrees themselves, but mainly by encouraging the unis to attract overseas students and charge them full freight. A 10-storey 27-apartment block in Nedlands has been given the go-ahead despite concerns over its height and number of residences dominating calls for its rejection. An independent development panel approved the Thomas Street plans off Stirling Highway on Wednesday after originally knocking it back in May over its then-11 storey height and 29-apartment density. Composite image: Concept plan for the Thomas Street boutique apartment in Nedlands Credit: City of Nedlands and RAD architecture The $16 million modified proposal came back to the panel on Tuesday minus two apartments and with a one-storey height reduction. The panel voted four-to-one to approve the amended plans despite a City of Nedlands Council recommendation to refuse the application stating the height and plot ratio were excessive, would overshadow other residents and encourage even taller development. Washington: A Pakistani man alleged to have ties to Iran has been charged over a plot to carry out assassinations of US political figures, potentially including former president Donald Trump. The case disclosed by the Justice Department is the latest alleged murder-for-hire plot originating from abroad to target American public figures, coming two years after officials disrupted a separate scheme they said was aimed at former Trump administration national security adviser John Bolton. Asif Merchant, who is alleged to have ties to Iran, has been charged in a plot to carry out political assassinations on US soil. Credit: AP Asif Merchant travelled to New York in June for the purpose of meeting men he thought he was recruiting to carry out the killings, even paying a $US5000 ($7625) advance to two would-be assassins who were actually undercover law enforcement officers, federal officials said. He was arrested last month as he prepared to leave the US and after having told the men he would provide further instructions, including the names of the intended targets, in August or September after he returned to Pakistan, officials said. JUBA, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- At least 30 people have been confirmed dead due to starvation in the last two months in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area in South Sudan near the border with Ethiopia, an official confirmed Tuesday. Oleyo Akuer, minister of Information and Communication in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, said that the Pibor area had not had rains since the beginning of this year, though the rains came recently in July. "Hunger is everywhere since people didn't cultivate due to lack of rain, our people are suffering and they need support from humanitarian organizations and other well-wishers," Akuer told Xinhua over the phone. Akuer said that some UN agencies such as the World Food Program (WFP) are already on the ground assisting some affected people despite not reaching many of the affected persons. "Government is working hard and also talking with NGOs and UN agencies to provide food to affected people in the area, and we are calling for support such that our people are rescued from this situation," he said. International charity Oxfam announced Monday that about 12 people died of starvation early this month in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area. Manenji Mangundu, Oxfam country director in South Sudan, said in a statement issued in Juba that the scenes of suffering are heart-wrenching, adding that thousands of young and old are hungry. Mangundu noted that several children are severely malnourished because of going for days without anything to eat. Civilians have been forced to survive on wild vegetables and desert dates. According to Mangundu, more than 7 million people are already facing extreme hunger, including nearly 79,000 people facing catastrophic levels of food insecurity, which is more than double that of last year. TEHRAN, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Judiciary Spokesman Asghar Jahangir said on Tuesday the country has filed a case for investigating the assassination of Hamas Politburo Chief Ismail Haniyeh, but no arrest has been made so far. He made the remarks at a weekly press conference in the Iranian capital while elaborating on the measures implemented by the country's judicial apparatus in relation to the Hamas chief's assassination in Tehran last week in an attack allegedly carried out by Israel, according to the semi-official Fars news agency. Jahangir added the case was filed immediately after the incident at the order of Ahmad-Reza Pourkhaqan, president of the Judiciary Organization of the Armed Forces. He also rejected recent rumors about arrests in connection with the assassination case, noting that no one had been detained yet. He emphasized that following a special directive by Iran's Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei, the case had been placed on the agenda of the country's judicial apparatus, and all its dimensions would be investigated decisively and seriously. Jahangir said that Iran would use all domestic and international capacities to respond to Haniyeh's assassination. Haniyeh, who had been invited to attend Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's swearing-in ceremony last Tuesday, was killed along with his bodyguard early Wednesday when their residence in Tehran was hit, according to Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps. Iran accused Israel of carrying out the "terrorist attack" and vowed "a harsh and painful response." If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit A new generation of Peugeots 3008 SUV has gone on sale in Ireland but this time with no diesel option in the line-up. The two versions are a mild hybrid petrol and a fully electric version. A plug-in hybrid is coming. The new five-seater 3008 is longer, taller and higher than its predecessor, and has a long wheelbase. Two trim levels are Allure and GT. The E-3008s all-electric powertrains are a 210bhp Standard Range (available now), priced at 43,965 for the Allure Trim and at 49,795 for the GT (price is after state subsidies). It has a rated range of 527km. A 230bhp Long Range with up to 680kms WLTP is due in Q1 2024, along with a 320bhp Dual Motor with AWD. The Mild Hybrid (MHEV) is a 136bhp 1.2 PureTech with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and is available now priced at 43,995 for the Allure trim and at 47,995 for the GT trim. Your local Peugeot dealer in Mayo is JJ Burke's in Ballinrobe. See their advertisement elsewhere on this page. Cannonball 2024 partner The Jack and Jill Childrens Foundation is the official charity partner for Cannonball 2024. The action-packed supercar spectacle takes place from September 6 to 8, starting at Johnstown Estate in Enfield taking in Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow (Powerscourt Estate), Galway, Leitrim, and ending in Trim, Co Meath. Cannonball, fuelled by milesPLUS from Circle K, is the largest organised road trip in Europe featuring awe-inspiring supercars Ferrari, Lamborghini and McLaren to the elegance of Porsche, Aston Martin, and Maserati. The brand-new Lamborghini Revoulto will be unveiled in Ireland for the first time. Over 200,000 spectators are expected with free family festivals organised from coast to coast. Cannonball has already raised 1,638,432 for Irish children charities and this year hopes to reach a total of 300,000 for the Jack and Jill Foundation that funds and delivers in-home nursing care, respite support for children from birth to six years of age with severe learning disability associated with complex medical needs. KaRoSal, the Galway three-part harmony vocal group, will play at Dunmore Town Hall as part of the 50th Dunmore Annual Festival. The Festival show takes place on Saturday 10 August at 8pm and will also feature the Frenchville Brass Ensemble. KaRoSal are Kara Donohoe, Rona ORiordan, and Sarah Toomey. Their repertoire draws from the folk, gospel and Americana traditions, and they perform both a cappella and with acoustic guitar accompaniment. Their live sets include covers of Crosby, Still & Nashs Helplessly Hoping, along with their own arrangements of Fleetwood Macs Gold Dust Woman and Ed Sheerins I See Fire. KaRoSal originally met in The Galway Gospel Choir and at various singing sessions around the city. Discovering how well their voices worked together, they joined forces in 2018. Last year they released their debut EP, Songs In 3-Part Harmony, which included renditions of numbers by Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and Paul Simon, as well as an original track, Tears of Stone, written by Moycullen songwriter Sean McGrath. KaRoSal has played shows in the Galway Fringe Festival, Monroes Live and The Loft, and has been featured on Irish community radio in Canada. They recently collaborated with Galway pop-rock band The Opacas on a new single, You Know Me, to be released shortly. The Frenchville Brass Ensemble are a Galway based group which performs music across a range of genres, from Classical to Swing. KaRoSal and the Frenchville Brass Ensemble play a chill-out concert in Dunmore Town Hall as part of the 50th Dunmore Annual Festival on Saturday 10 August at 8pm. Admission is 5. This is a bring-your-own beer event. Proceeds from the night will go towards the Town Hall Restoration Fund. Enniscrone has seen a summer filled with environmentally minded art activities provided by artist Bernie Colhouns project Coastal Connections. The project now invites the local community to the grand opening of its culminating gallery exhibition on Friday, August 9th, at 6pm in Abhainn Studio, Enniscrone. The exhibition will be officially opened by Olivia Jones, Clean Coast North West Coordinator. Coastal Connections is a collaborative project spearheaded by artist Bernie Colhoun with support from Abhainn Studio, Enniscrone Tidy Towns & Clean Coasts group. Funded by Creative Ireland and Sligo County Council, this initiative has harnessed the power of art to inspire positive change and environmental awareness in the community. In June and July, artist Bernie Colhoun led art workshops where participants engaged in beach walks, clean-ups, and sketching local flora and fauna. These sketches were transformed at her art studio Facets Studio into eco-friendly lino prints displayed as flags along the shoreline, turning Enniscrone Beach into an outdoor art space. The upcoming gallery exhibition at Abhainn Studio will showcase the stunning artworks created during the workshops, including framed prints on paper and the textile works from the beach showcase. Participants will share their experiences, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that has driven the projects success. The exhibition runs until August 14th. An aerial drone photo taken on July 31, 2024 shows a view of Ganlan buildings in Pingliu Village of Longlin County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Pingliu Village, spanning a history of over 200 years, is a Zhuang ethnic-minority hamlet that borders neighboring provinces of Yunnan and Guizhou. Among the well preserved traditions and costumes of the local Zhuang ethnic minority group, the local housing facility, Ganlan building, a stilt wood-structured residential architecture, is most distinctive. Supported by wooden columns, the buildings are usually built in three stories with slope roofs. The ground floor is mainly served as livestock sheds, while the second floor and above are for family living and grain storage respectively. High above the ground, the Ganlan buildings help prevent humidity, increase ventilation and bring lights in people's living space. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) A villager shows rice stored on the top floor of his wooden Ganlan building in Pingliu Village of Longlin County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, July 31, 2024. Pingliu Village, spanning a history of over 200 years, is a Zhuang ethnic-minority hamlet that borders neighboring provinces of Yunnan and Guizhou. Among the well preserved traditions and costumes of the local Zhuang ethnic minority group, the local housing facility, Ganlan building, a stilt wood-structured residential architecture, is most distinctive. Supported by wooden columns, the buildings are usually built in three stories with slope roofs. The ground floor is mainly served as livestock sheds, while the second floor and above are for family living and grain storage respectively. High above the ground, the Ganlan buildings help prevent humidity, increase ventilation and bring lights in people's living space. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) A villager does needlework inside her wooden Ganlan building in Pingliu Village of Longlin County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, July 31, 2024. Pingliu Village, spanning a history of over 200 years, is a Zhuang ethnic-minority hamlet that borders neighboring provinces of Yunnan and Guizhou. Among the well preserved traditions and costumes of the local Zhuang ethnic minority group, the local housing facility, Ganlan building, a stilt wood-structured residential architecture, is most distinctive. Supported by wooden columns, the buildings are usually built in three stories with slope roofs. The ground floor is mainly served as livestock sheds, while the second floor and above are for family living and grain storage respectively. High above the ground, the Ganlan buildings help prevent humidity, increase ventilation and bring lights in people's living space. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) A villager washes hands in front of his wooden Ganlan building in Pingliu Village of Longlin County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, July 31, 2024. Pingliu Village, spanning a history of over 200 years, is a Zhuang ethnic-minority hamlet that borders neighboring provinces of Yunnan and Guizhou. Among the well preserved traditions and costumes of the local Zhuang ethnic minority group, the local housing facility, Ganlan building, a stilt wood-structured residential architecture, is most distinctive. Supported by wooden columns, the buildings are usually built in three stories with slope roofs. The ground floor is mainly served as livestock sheds, while the second floor and above are for family living and grain storage respectively. High above the ground, the Ganlan buildings help prevent humidity, increase ventilation and bring lights in people's living space. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) A villager sits on the doorsill of his wooden Ganlan building in Pingliu Village of Longlin County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, July 31, 2024. Pingliu Village, spanning a history of over 200 years, is a Zhuang ethnic-minority hamlet that borders neighboring provinces of Yunnan and Guizhou. Among the well preserved traditions and costumes of the local Zhuang ethnic minority group, the local housing facility, Ganlan building, a stilt wood-structured residential architecture, is most distinctive. Supported by wooden columns, the buildings are usually built in three stories with slope roofs. The ground floor is mainly served as livestock sheds, while the second floor and above are for family living and grain storage respectively. High above the ground, the Ganlan buildings help prevent humidity, increase ventilation and bring lights in people's living space. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) A herd of goats are seen in Pingliu Village of Longlin County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, July 31, 2024. Pingliu Village, spanning a history of over 200 years, is a Zhuang ethnic-minority hamlet that borders neighboring provinces of Yunnan and Guizhou. Among the well preserved traditions and costumes of the local Zhuang ethnic minority group, the local housing facility, Ganlan building, a stilt wood-structured residential architecture, is most distinctive. Supported by wooden columns, the buildings are usually built in three stories with slope roofs. The ground floor is mainly served as livestock sheds, while the second floor and above are for family living and grain storage respectively. High above the ground, the Ganlan buildings help prevent humidity, increase ventilation and bring lights in people's living space. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) An aerial drone photo taken on July 31, 2024 shows two kids playing on a Ganlan building in Pingliu Village of Longlin County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Pingliu Village, spanning a history of over 200 years, is a Zhuang ethnic-minority hamlet that borders neighboring provinces of Yunnan and Guizhou. Among the well preserved traditions and costumes of the local Zhuang ethnic minority group, the local housing facility, Ganlan building, a stilt wood-structured residential architecture, is most distinctive. Supported by wooden columns, the buildings are usually built in three stories with slope roofs. The ground floor is mainly served as livestock sheds, while the second floor and above are for family living and grain storage respectively. High above the ground, the Ganlan buildings help prevent humidity, increase ventilation and bring lights in people's living space. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Ganlan buildings are pictured in Pingliu Village of Longlin County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, July 31, 2024. Pingliu Village, spanning a history of over 200 years, is a Zhuang ethnic-minority hamlet that borders neighboring provinces of Yunnan and Guizhou. Among the well preserved traditions and costumes of the local Zhuang ethnic minority group, the local housing facility, Ganlan building, a stilt wood-structured residential architecture, is most distinctive. Supported by wooden columns, the buildings are usually built in three stories with slope roofs. The ground floor is mainly served as livestock sheds, while the second floor and above are for family living and grain storage respectively. High above the ground, the Ganlan buildings help prevent humidity, increase ventilation and bring lights in people's living space. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) NAIROBI, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The 2024 summit for the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), scheduled for September in Beijing, will inject vitality into bilateral relationships between China and Kenya that have spanned over six decades, according to Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya's prime cabinet secretary. Mudavadi, also the cabinet secretary for foreign and diaspora affairs, made the remarks Tuesday at a meeting with representatives from Chinese communities in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital. Mudavadi expressed the country's anticipation for a new chapter in its diplomatic ties with China at the upcoming forum. "Kenya's participation in FOCAC affirms our commitment and unwavering support as a strategic partner for China to host a successful summit," he said. Representatives from the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, Confucius Institute at the University of Nairobi, Kenya Overseas Chinese Association, Kenya Chinese Tourism Association, Kenya Chinese Chamber of Commerce, and Chinese enterprises in Kenya, attended the meeting to discuss strategic areas of collaboration to foster mutual benefits. Mudavadi highlighted that engagement with the Chinese diplomatic community, private sector, and media is crucial for building a community with a shared future, as envisioned by leaders from both nations. He noted that Kenya is aligned with the core objectives of FOCAC, including win-win political and economic cooperation, sustainable development, and promoting peace and stability in Africa. He also expressed optimism that the FOCAC summit will forge a new beginning for practical cooperation with China across various sectors, including trade and investment, affordable housing, green financing, peace and security, and people-to-people exchanges. Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Zhou Pingjian said that the bilateral ties between the two countries have thrived against a backdrop of mutual trust and shared aspirations. "In China, we often say, 'build the nest to attract phoenixes.' To the Chinese phoenixes present here today, Kenya is a welcoming and ideal nest which keeps improving, truly a home away from home," he said. Zhou acknowledged the crucial role of the Chinese communities in Kenya, including investors and entrepreneurs, in strengthening the bonds of friendship. "The Chinese Embassy will continue to exert its utmost efforts to consolidate and further the longstanding friendly ties between our countries and enhance friendship between our peoples," the ambassador said. DHAKA, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Bangladesh's President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved parliament on Tuesday, paving the way for the formation of an interim government following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The president also ordered the release of jailed former Prime Minister and key opposition leader Begum Khaleda Zia, said a press release from Bangabhaban, the official residence of the president of Bangladesh. "The decision to dissolve the parliament was taken following the president's discussions with the three chief of staffs of armed forces, leaders of different political parties, representatives of civil society and leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement," said the press release. Shamsuddin Dider, member of the media wing of Bangladesh Nationalist Party, told Xinhua that the party's chief Khaleda Zia has already been released. The release order came a day after her archrival Hasina resigned and military took power. Hasina fled the country on Monday amid violent protests in the South Asian country. An interim government will be set up to run Bangladesh after Hasina's resignation, according to army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman. Zaman made the remarks in a broadcast to the nation on state television on Monday afternoon. He confirmed earlier media reports on Hasina's resignation. "We would now go to the president to form an interim government," said Zaman. Hasina, 76, took office for her fourth straight five-year term as the country's prime minister in January this year after her ruling Bangladesh Awami League (AL) party won a landslide victory in the parliamentary elections. BEIRUT, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Israeli warplanes broke on Tuesday afternoon a large sound barrier over the Lebanese capital Beirut, creating fear among citizens, the National News Agency reported. Streaks of smoke are seen as an anti-missile system intercepts rockets launched from Lebanon, as seen from Kiryat Shmona, northern Israel, on Aug. 6, 2024. Confrontations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army escalated following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, killing Hezbollah senior military commander Fouad Shokor and seven civilians. (Ayal Margolin/JINI via Xinhua) BEIRUT, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon's armed group Hezbollah announced that it launched drones on military targets in northern Israel on Tuesday. Hezbollah said in a statement that it launched an air attack "with a squadron of suicide drones that targeted the headquarters of the Golani Brigade and the headquarters of the Egoz Unit 621 in the Shraga barracks north of occupied Acre." Confrontations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army escalated following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, killing Hezbollah senior military commander Fouad Shokor and seven civilians. Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah threatened a definite and painful response to the Israeli raid at the appropriate time and place. Tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border escalated on Oct. 8, 2023, following a barrage of rockets launched by Hezbollah toward Israel in solidarity with Hamas' attack on Israel the day before. Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon. An anti-missile system intercepts rockets launched from Lebanon, as seen from Kiryat Shmona, northern Israel, on Aug. 6, 2024. Confrontations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army escalated following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, killing Hezbollah senior military commander Fouad Shokor and seven civilians. (Ayal Margolin/JINI via Xinhua) An anti-missile system intercepts rockets launched from Lebanon, as seen from Kiryat Shmona, northern Israel, on Aug. 6, 2024. Confrontations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army escalated following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, killing Hezbollah senior military commander Fouad Shokor and seven civilians. (Ayal Margolin/JINI via Xinhua) Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in Kafr Kila, Lebanon, on Aug. 6, 2024. Confrontations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army escalated following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, killing Hezbollah senior military commander Fouad Shokor and seven civilians. (Photo by Taher Abu Hamdan/Xinhua) Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in Kafr Kila, Lebanon, on Aug. 6, 2024. Confrontations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army escalated following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, killing Hezbollah senior military commander Fouad Shokor and seven civilians. (Photo by Taher Abu Hamdan/Xinhua) Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in Kafr Kila, Lebanon, on Aug. 6, 2024. Confrontations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army escalated following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, killing Hezbollah senior military commander Fouad Shokor and seven civilians. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua) Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in Kafr Kila, Lebanon, on Aug. 6, 2024. Confrontations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army escalated following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, killing Hezbollah senior military commander Fouad Shokor and seven civilians. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua) This photo shows the smoke caused by an Israeli airstrike in Kafr Kila, Lebanon, Aug. 7, 2024. Confrontations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army escalated following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, killing Hezbollah senior military commander Fouad Shokor and seven civilians. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua) NEW DELHI, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled the violence-hit nation after the collapse of her government, is likely to stay in India until Britain grants her asylum, a local television news channel Republic World said Tuesday. The 76-year-old Hasina resigned on Monday following unprecedented anti-government protests back home. She immediately left Dhaka in a military helicopter. Initial reports said she was heading to London and upon landing in India would take a commercial flight to a third country. However, on Monday evening, her helicopter landed at Ghaziabad's Hindon Air Base near New Delhi and since then she has been in India. Reports say she is awaiting approval from the British government regarding political asylum in the country. "Sheikh Hasina is likely to extend her stay in India as she awaits approval from the UK for asylum," Republic World quoting its sources said. Eluned Morgan wins First Minister vote This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Aug 6th, 2024 Eluned Morgan will be the new First Minister of Wales. Nomination for First Minister took place in a Plenary session at the recalled Senedd this morning. In a short session three party leaders were nominated, and voted for, by their respective groups with Morgan emerging the winner. Outgoing First Minister Gething said he was proud to nominate Eluned Morgan to be the First Minister of Wales. Rhun ap Iorwerth and Andrew Davies were also nominated, with Morgan getting 28 votes to the 12 and 15 respectively for those challenging for the role ( plus one abstention). The Llywydd said, This is the definitive result of this vote: Eluned Morgan has 28 votes, Andrew R.T. Davies 15, Rhun ap Iorwerth 12, abstensions 1. Therefore 56 votes have been cast, and I therefore declare that Eluned Morgan is nominated for appointment as First Minister of Wales. In accordance with section 47(4) of the Government of Wales Act, I will recommend to His Majesty the appointment of Eluned Morgan as First Minister. Morgan is now the nominee, so the Llywydd will now recommend to the King that they are appointed as First Minister of Wales. Once this appointment is made, the new First Minister will begin forming their new Cabinet. It is unclear what happens if the King declines the nomination. When ready, the First Minister will announce a new Cabinet. The new First Minister is able to appoint a temporary Counsel General, but the Senedd must consider a motion to formally recommend a new Counsel General in Plenary. The formal appointment is made by the King after the Senedds recommendation. The debate is expected to take place when Senedd returns from summer recess. There may need to be changes to Senedd postholders following the new First Ministers Cabinet announcements, such as new Committee Chairs and Committee membership. Selection of Committee Chairs takes place in Plenary. North Wales Police officers complete 200-mile ride in memory of fallen colleagues This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Aug 6th, 2024 Officers and staff from North Wales Police have completed a 200-mile in memory of colleagues who have died in the line of duty. They joined representatives from the four Welsh police forces to take part in this years Police Unity Tour. The policing peloton involving cyclists, motorcycle outriders and support teams set off from Aberystwyth Police Station on Friday 26 July, and made their way to the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire over the course of three days. They arrived on Sunday where a special commemoration ceremony was held attended by officers and staff from police forces across the UK. The teams were raising money for the Care of Police Survivors (COPS) charity, which provides support to injured officers and staff as well as to the families of loved ones who are left behind following the death of an on-duty serving police family member. Each rider was issued a blue memorial bracelet inscribed with the name and information of a Police Officer who died in the line of duty, which was carried over to the finish line. Through online donations and cake sales the team from North Wales Police have so far raised almost 4,000. Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman said it was a real honour to take part in the event. The Unity Tour is certainly an event which makes us proud to be part of the police family, said Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman. Over 500 cyclists and support team members from across the UK took part in this years tour and it was quite a poignant moment seeing everyone arrive at the Arboretum. I want to thank everyone from this years North Wales Police contingent, and indeed the other three Welsh forces for playing their part in honouring the memory of all police officers and staff who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Im especially proud of the North Wales team who cycled approximately 130 miles from Police Headquarters in Colwyn Bay down to Aberystwyth on the Thursday. Chief Constable Blakeman added: The Unity Tour is a poignant opportunity for all police officers, staff, volunteers as well as the wider public, to acknowledge the dangers and risks of modern-day policing and pay tribute to those who have lost their lives whilst protecting our communities. The work that COPS do is absolutely essential, and whilst nobody should ever have to use their services, the sad fact is that they are required. It is an absolute privilege to collectively ride in memory of our fallen colleagues, to show that we, as a police service, will never forget their sacrifice. North Wales Police Federation Communications and Case Officer Jayne Humphreys added: The Police Unity Tour is an event which makes us proud to be part of the police family. The COPS service on the Sunday morning is always an emotional experience for the cyclists, support teams, families and their guests and gives everyone the chance to catch up. It was a real privilege to represent the North Wales Police Federation and support the riders, survivors and the charity. Those wishing to donate to the cause can continue to do so via justgiving.com To the young women watching today, you need to know your potential is limitless more from new First Minister This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Aug 6th, 2024 Eluned Morgan pledged to restore public trust in politics as she was officially nominated as Wales new first minister. As we reported earlier she will become Wales first female first minister after the Senedd was recalled from summer recess to nominate Vaughan Gethings replacement. Addressing the debating chamber or Siambr for the first time as first minister-designate, Baroness Morgan said her government will listen, learn and deliver for Wales. Greatest honour Baroness Morgan, who has served as health secretary since 2021, was applauded by supporters in the chamber and the public gallery following her nomination. Its the greatest honour of my life to stand before you today as the first woman to become the First Minister of Wales, she said. Twenty-five years ago, we witnessed the dawn of a new era with the birth of devolution. This pivotal moment was the realisation of Welsh ambition, a rekindling of our national spirit and the beginning of a journey towards greater self-determination within the UK. In her speech she said, I want to thank my immediate predecessor to this role, Vaughan Gething, for his service, another true trailblazer on that devolution journey. But Im acutely aware that he and I are just links in a chain of leadership that stretches back to the very start of devolution: Alun, who helped lay the foundations of the Assembly; Rhodri, the visionary advocate; Carwyn, who steered us through austerity; Mark, who guided us during the pandemic; and Vaughan, who broke diversity barriers with his historic victory. As I take up the mantle of leadership, I promise to honour their achievements and add my own distinctive contribution to this legacy, perhaps with a vibrant splash of colourthe grey suits are out. This is a historic day as a woman becomes the First Minister of Wales for the first time in our history. This isnt just about shattering glass ceilingsits about shattering them for ever, using the pieces to create a mosaic of new possibilities. I carry with me the wisdom of the women who have battled, struggeld, and persevered without the recognition that theyve deserved. To the young women watching today, you need to know your potential is limitless, the path to leadership is not now just a possibility, its a reality, and I look forward to the day when a woman becoming First Minister is no longer extraordinary, but a normal part of our Welsh political life. As First Minister, I promise to champion voices and experiences that have too often been sidelined and silenced, to champion parts of Wales that too often feel like theyre on the periphery, like my home in St Davids in west Wales. No-one will be left out. I extend my hand in gratitude and in genuine partnership to everyone in Wales. In a world where things that divide us are amplified and emphasised, sometimes for profit, I want to make it clear that I will be a listening First Minister, listening to all, not just those who shout the loudest or who have the most power. The former health minister, who is Wales third first minister this year, will succeed Mr Gething who was forced to quit by mass resignations from his cabinet. His leadership was beset by controversy over donations from a convicted polluter and the sacking of a cabinet colleague accused of leaking to the press. Turmoil Nominated by her predecessor, Baroness Morgan said: We must work to restore trust. Wales is a warm and welcoming nation and our political discourse needs to reflect that. Baroness Morgan, who was elected Welsh Labour leader on July 24 after no contest, thanked Mr Gething who she described as trailblazer on the devolution journey. The vote was the first time members have been recalled to confirm a new first minister, with the Senedd last recalled in 2022 to Queen Elizabeth II. Finishing a distant third in the race to replace Carwyn Jones as leader in 2018, Baroness Morgan could hardly have imagined then she would become first minister. She declined to stand when Mark Drakeford stood down in December due to the bruising experience in 2018 but she now has been thrust into the top job. Glass ceiling Andrew RT Davies, leader of the Conservative opposition, congratulated Baroness Morgan but warned that the revolving door of first ministers has had a corrosive effect. He told the Senedd: When I was speaking to my daughters this morning, they made the point that there will be a different dynamic having a woman in the centre of the chamber. Rhun ap Iorwerth reiterated his partys calls for a snap Senedd election, criticising Labour chaos and warning that more of the same is no longer an option. Plaid Cymrus leader urged Baroness Morgan to reset the relationship between the Welsh and UK Governments beyond mere sound bites. Ms Dodds, the Lib Dems leader in Wales, who abstained in the vote, called for unity, warning of the dark truth of a lack of confidence in politicians. Closing proceedings in the Siambr, Elin Jones pointed to the ceiling in the Senedd chamber, saying we finally broke through that glass ceiling. Who is Eluned Morgan? Born in Ely, Cardiff, one of the most deprived parts of the country, the politicians parents were both local councillors and her father was a Church in Wales vicar. Educated at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf, then the only Welsh-medium school in the city, she later picked coffee in Nicaragua while supporting the Sandinista movement in the 1980s. In 1994, she was the youngest member of the European Parliament when she was elected to represent Mid and West Wales aged 27. Made a peer in 2011, Baroness Morgan was elected to the Senedd in 2016, joining the cabinet a year later as minister for Welsh language and lifelong learning. In 2022, she apologised unreservedly after receiving a six-month driving ban for repeated speeding, with the standards commissioner criticising her for setting a poor example. She also faced criticism in 2023 after placing Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board back into special measures but she narrowly survived a Conservative motion of no confidence. What next? Baroness Morgan is expected to unveil her cabinet in the next few days, with Wales new first minister set for her first FMQs after summer recess on September 17. We know Ogmore MP Huw Irranca-Davies, the climate change minister, who ran on a joint ticket with Baroness Morgan, will become deputy first minister. He will be the first person to hold the role since Ieuan Wyn Jones, the former Plaid Cymru leader, who held the post as part of the One Wales government from 2007 to 2011. As well as trying to unite a fractured Labour group, a key challenge facing Baroness Morgan will be passing the Welsh Governments draft budget which will be published in December. Labour holds exactly half of the Senedds 60 seats, meaning the Welsh Government will need wider support to agree its spending plans for 2025/26. Then theres the small matter of a Senedd election on the horizon in 2026, with Labour leading Plaid Cymru by only 1% according to latest polls. By Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter / Wrexham.com Wrexham University hosts packed programme of Welsh language activities at National Eisteddfod This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Aug 6th, 2024 Teams at Prifysgol Wrecsam/Wrexham University are playing host to a jam-packed programme of Welsh language themed activities and learning opportunities ready for their appearance at this years National Eisteddfod. Staff from across the University will be on hand throughout the week to demonstrate its commitment to offering students and staff the chance to speak the Welsh language, as well as study bilingually and celebrate the culture, while studying and working at the institution. The National Eisteddfod is the largest cultural festival in Europe, held in a different part of Wales every year. This year its taking place at Rhondda Cynon Taf from this Saturday, August 3 to next Saturday, August 10. Throughout the week, Wrexham Universitys stand will focus on a different theme for each day of the event. They include: Tuesday, August 6 Education Wednesday, August 7 Health Thursday, August 8 Law and Criminology Friday, August 9 Art While, activities during the weekend of the event will be led by Wrexham Universitys partner organisation, Xplore! Science Discovery Centre. Elen Mai Nefydd, the Universitys Head of Welsh Development, said the National Eisteddfod is the most fitting event to demonstrate the institutions positive contribution to the development of the Welsh language. She said: We are delighted to be returning to the National Eisteddfod for the second year in succession and are looking forward to welcome attendees to our stand and find out more about our Welsh medium offer, with some exciting surprises up our sleeves. We are proud to say that we continue to make immense strides in relation to our Welsh language provision and we cant wait to share what progress has been made since last years event. The Eisteddfod provides a superb opportunity to meet and speak with prospective Welsh-speaking students, engage with other institutions and organisations from across Wales, and really showcase our commitment to offering everybody the chance to speak, learn and be supported in Welsh here at Prifysgol Wrecsam. This years event is extra exciting as it means we are a year closer to hosting next years National Eisteddfod in Wrexham. We cannot wait to be holding the festival in our home city and are looking forward to working with the community in the run-up to next years event. Jonathan Lloyd, Marketing and Communications Content Producer at Wrexham University, who started the second level of the Welsh at Work course, is one of the staff members, who will be on hand at the Universitys stand during the National Eisteddfod. He said: As a Welsh learner, Im thrilled that Im able to utilise those skills during the week of the Eisteddfod. Its situations like this, which help to boost my confidence. Its also great that we will have such a strong presence at the event its a fantastic opportunity to showcase the institutions commitment to bilingual provision. Elen Mai is the 2025 National Eisteddfods Deputy Chair (Culture) and will be leading on the events artistic elements. We call on all Deutsche Bahn workers to join our rank-and-file Rail Action Committee to prepare the defence of jobs and the functioning of rail transport as a whole. The announcement by Deutsche Bahn (DB) boss Richard Lutz to cut 30,000 jobs is a frontal assault on all rail workers. We are also addressing our colleagues who work in administration in particular. We will not be divided. EVG and Verdi demonstration, March 27, 2023 in Leipzig The administrative jobs that are to be destroyed will not be cut in the real bloatthe thousands of board members, managers, division heads etc. who are highly paid by DB in its numerous companies. These are the ones who carry out the job cuts; and the devil does not cut off his own claws! According to DB, the jobs to be cut are first and foremost in administrationi.e. not directly on the trains, in stations, in workshops or on the tracks. But they are still essential for the operation of the railways. This would affect workers in accounting, procurement, planning, IT and so on. The cutbacks in these areas are just the beginning; jobs are also to be cut in all other areas at a later date. The announcement that first and foremost it will affect the administration is part of an arrangement between DB top management and the two trade unions representing rail workers, the GDL and EVG. The GDL has already agreed to the job cuts if they take place in the administration and not in the direct [rail] area. If the job cuts were then extended to the rails, including train drivers, the EVG would nevertheless agree to them since it expressly supports scrutinising and questioning processes and structures within the company. The unions and management are seeking to play rail workers off against each other and divide us in order to prevent a joint fight in defence of all jobs. If they are successful, only the highly frequented and therefore profitable lines will remain of the once state-owned rail and railway transport system. This would be the inevitable consequence if rail transport and the rail network are organised according to their competitiveness and profitability and not according to the needs of society and ourselves. For economic reasons, the goal is not seeking more passengers and more freight by expanding services or reducing road transport due to climate change. Fully utilised rail routes are in themselves economical and competitive. A rail strategy paper released to the press last week emphasises that in future, long-distance trains should only be run where demand is high. There, the main routes could be extended to half-hourly intervals. A reliable basic service should be offered in the regions where it is economically viable. This is the code for further route closures. At the end of June, citing a confidential letter from DB to the Federal Network Agency, news weekly Der Spiegel had already reported about line closures, particularly in eastern Germany. Since the initial privatisation of the railways in 1994, more than 500 lines or sections with a total length of more than 5,200 kilometres had been closed by the end of 2021, according to the Federal Railway Authority, around 12 percent of the network. Rail traffic has increased, freight traffic by 80 percent and passenger traffic by 47 percent (source: Pro-Rail Alliance). Now further closures, cutbacks and rationalisation are taking place at the expense of rail workers, the general population living in urban areas outside the major centres and, not least, the climate. Our workloads are already extreme. Fewer and fewer colleagues have to do more and more. Many are switching from DB to other rail transport companies or leaving the industry altogether. In our experience, the worst situation is at DB Cargo. In recent years, massive cutbacks have driven the entire group to the wall. We are paying for the extreme workloads with our health and often with our lives. Now this is to be extended in an intensified form to all parts of the DB Group. And to what end? Every last drop of profit is to be squeezed out of us, just so that the German government can earn its required return of 5.9 percent on its equity capital and then invest the money we have earned in armaments and war. The attacks on rail workers are part of the governments comprehensive attack on the entire working class. The huge increase in spending on war and armaments is being financed at our expense. The coalition government of the Social Democrats (SPD), Liberal Democrats (FDP) and Greens is supported by the trade union apparatuses of the GDL and the EVG. The Rail Action Committee therefore calls on all workers at Deutsche Bahn and all rail transport companies to prepare for the principled defence of our jobs and working conditionsagainst the government, the company and the trade union apparatus. This also applies to the defence of the railways as a whole as a climate-friendly and efficient transport system. Our demands: Recruitment of 30,000 workers instead of further redundancies. Unite workers at all rail transport companies independently of the trade unions. In the last round of contract negotiations, their bloated bureaucracy has proven it stands on the side of Deutsche Bahn. The rights and needs of rail workers and passengers must take precedence over the profit drive of the government, investors, shareholders and speculators. Stop all military transports by rail! No weapons and ammunition for the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East and the genocide in Gaza. For the international unity of all railway workers. The privatisation of state-owned railways into global corporations is a worldwide development with catastrophic consequences in all countries of the world. Get in touch with us via Whatsapp at +49-163-337 8340 or register using the form below. Take part in our online meeting on Tuesday 13 August. Following six days of riots throughout Britain led by fascists, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer held an emergency COBRA meeting on Monday, a month to the day since his Labour Party took office on July 5. Named COBRA after the Cabinet Office Briefing Room A in Downing Street, the committee gathers in times of national crisis. The meeting was attended by Starmer, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, other ministers, Attorney General Lord Richard Hermer, police leaders and representatives from the National Crime Agency and prison service. Labour Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announces standing police army in Downing Street, August 5, 2024 [Photo: screenshot from video: Keir Starmer/X] With a Union Jack behind him, Starmer announced a new standing army of specialist officers to quell the riots. Members of Parliament have called for a recall of parliament, and the use of the Army to deal with the rioters, which Starmer has so far opposed. The standing police army is the creation of a national police force. It follows Starmers statement on August 1 after meeting with police leaders that he would establish a national capability, across police forces, to tackle violent disorder. Starmers promises make clear that the new force will be used not just against the far-right but all opposition to the government. The fascists seized on the stabbing murder of three children on July 29 in Southport, England, to launch a riot falsely blaming a Muslim for the deaths. Attacks on immigrants and asylum seekersand anyone not whitein many towns and cities have become ever more violent. Starmer said, We will have a standing army of specialist public duty officers so that we will have enough officers to deal with this where we need them, adding, we will ramp up criminal justice. There have already been hundreds of arrests, some have appeared in court this morning. Speaking to Sky News, Home Secretary Cooper said, Weve made sure there are additional prosecutors in place, that there are prisons, that prison places are ready, and also that the courts stand ready as well. The reality is that to date far-right thugs have mostly been treated with kid gloves, as they rampage through cities, attack mosques, loot stores and carry out arson. It is purely down to chance and the brave response of local communities that no-one has yet died in the pogrom-type attacks. After five days of riots, just 273 rioters had been arrested by Sunday. Another 147 were arrested on Sunday, taking the total by Monday morning to 420. This is despite the police having massive powers at their disposalacross numerous acts of parliamentsto disperse protests, make arrests and even make arrests before disturbances take place. On Sunday, the fascists targeted two hotelsin Rotherham, South Yorkshire, and Tamworth, Staffordshirecontaining asylum seekers, attacks that were planned days in advance. Fascists set fire to a hotel in Rotherham, England housing asylum seekers during an anti-immigrant pogrom, August 4, 2024. [Photo by REUTERS/Hollie Adams] In Rotherham, where the fascists set fire to part of the building, the Times reported that men clad in balaclavas pushed through the shattered glass window of the dining room at the Holiday Inn Express and marauded through the corridors where 130 terrified migrants live. Once inside the fascists began attacking asylum seekers, with one explaining, They came into this floor [first] and hit me until the police drove them away down the corridor. Before the fascists arrived, a group of around 100 mobilised to protect the hotel, with only a small number of police present. Speaking to Sky News, Nick Aldworth, the Director of Counter Terrorism and Risk at the Carlisle Support Services firm, revealed, I have an intelligence document dated two days ago that highlighted an extreme right-wing protest at this location [Holiday Inn, Rotherham] at 12pm today. With two days preparation time, I wouldnt expect protesters to be able to get to the venue like this. I would suggest theres been a really serious failure by the planners and senior leadership team in South Yorkshire Police. South Yorkshire Police (SYP) are no strangers to mass mobilisations when it suits theirs, and the governments purposes in taking on the working class. SYP mobilisedalong with 18 other police forces6,000 officers to violently attack and mass arrest picketing miners at the Orgreave coking works during the 1984-85 miners strike. In pledging a crackdown on the far-right thugs, the Starmer government has unleashed a torrent of hypocrisy, claiming that the riots have as good as fallen from the sky. The fact is that the fascists are operating in a political environment polluted by the anti-immigrant sentiment spewed out by the main parties of the ruling class, Labour and Conservative, for years, echoed by a foul xenophobic right-wing media. The demand of the fascists that asylum seekers must be driven out of hotels is a call stretching back years, after first being made by the fascist groups and by Nigel Farage, now the leader of the Reform UK party. In 2020, Farage, then leader of the Brexit Party, fronted a series of YouTube videos on opposing illegal immigration under the title, Nigel Farage investigates. In one, Farage went to the Rivenhall hotel in the Essex constituency of Whitham, used to accommodate asylum seekers and refugees. Shortly after members of the fascist Britain First entered hotels in London, Essex, Birmingham and Warrington in which asylum seekers were being housed, and harassed them. Similar provocations were organised by another fascist outfit, For Britain. Ever since Farage emerged as a leader of his UK Independence Party in 1993, his role has been to shift government policy sharply to the right. Everything Farage demands today becomes the policy of the main parties soon after. Labour pledged during the general election campaign to clear the asylum backlog and secure the borders, announcing as soon as they came to office that they were planning to end the temporary accommodation of asylum seekers in hotels. Then Shadow Home Secretary Cooper made an inflammatory X posting on June 13, declaring that 8,000 asylum seekers were unaccounted for in Conservative government figures: How can they just lose 8,000 people? Who they are paying for. In Home Office asylum hotels. Labour will clear the backlog, end asylum hotels & fix the Tories chaos. On July 2, two days before the general election, Cooper visited Tamworth at the invitation of prospective Labour MP Sarah Edwards. In a Facebook posting Edwards said, Labour will restore community policing, control our borders, and close the asylum hotel. This was the very hotel attacked by the fascists just over one month later. Cooper said in a video with Edwards that Labour would be fixing the chaos in the asylum system, ending asylum hotels and actually get some grip again. On July 30, as the fascist riots began in Southport, Edwards made a speech in parliament declaring, In Tamworth the Holiday Inn has been used for asylum purposes for years and the simple reality is that residents want their hotel back. Local Rotherham Labour MP John Healeynow the defence secretarywrote to then immigration minister Robert Jenrick last October, stating that the Holiday Inn, attacked in Rotherham on Sunday, should not be used as an asylum hotel. Responding to the spread of the riots on Sunday, Farage said, In the short term, we will quell the riots, but deeper longer-term problems remain. He demanded an honest debate as The majority of our population can see the fracturing of our communities as a result of mass, uncontrolled immigration, whether legal or illegal. The Sun newspaper, which endorsed Labour in the election, echoed Farage, editorialising Monday that while the courts had to throw the book at far-right thugs (whose propaganda it has spewed out for years) the government had to deal with the twin problems of violent crime and illegal migration. It added, Punishment, too, should be meted out to the hard-Left and Islamists also seeking to drive a wedge in our communities. The editorial can be read as the Labour governments playbook in the coming weeks. TEHRAN, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani said Monday that Israel's assassination of Hamas Politburo Chief Ismail Haniyeh had undermined regional and international stability and security. At a meeting with foreign ambassadors and diplomats, Bagheri Kani said that Israel saw the sole way in "warmongering and expansion of conflict among regional countries and among Palestinians," according to a statement released by the Iranian Foreign Ministry. He emphasized that the assassinations of Haniyeh and the senior Hezbollah commander Fouad Shokor a few hours earlier in Beirut, Lebanon, should not be regarded as unrelated to the developments in the occupied Palestinian territories and regions and that these events were in line with Israel's numerous "terrorist actions" in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon and Syria. Haniyeh was attacked while he was Iran's official guest and in the country's legal territory, said Bagheri Kani, condemning the assassination as an "unjustified and illegal violation and aggression" against Iran's sovereignty. Haniyeh, who had been invited to attend Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday, was killed along with his bodyguard early Wednesday when their residence in Tehran was hit, according to Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, which said Israel had carried out the "terrorist attack" and vowed "a harsh and painful response." Bangladeshs longtime prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, fled the country Monday amid a mass popular uprising against her increasingly brutal authoritarian rule. Protesters shout slogans as they celebrate Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. [AP Photo/Rajib Dahr] Army chief General Waker-uz-Zaman announced Hasina had resigned in a televised statement to the nation, hours after she and her sister had been spotted with army escorts at Dhaka international airport. It was subsequently learned that Hasina, who headed Bangladeshs government for the past 15 years, had flown to India, which has enjoyed close ties to her regime. Declaring the country of 170 million people was going through a revolutionary period, General Waker-uz-Zaman said that the military would oversee a peaceful transition to a new government and the restoration of order. He claimed to have already consulted with opposition leaders and civil society groups. The general appealed to the population to leave the streets and ordered that schools, colleges, factories, and offices reopen Tuesday morning upon the lifting of a curfew. Trying to defuse the mass anger, Waker-Uz-Zaman postured as a friend of the people. I promise you all, he avowed, we will bring justice to all the murders Have faith in the army of the country. Please don't go back to the path of violence and please return to non-violent and peaceful ways. As the general was speaking, jubilant crowds were surging through the streets of the national capital, Dhaka. The prime ministers residence and several government buildings were stormed and sacked. The New York Times cited a garment worker Monsur Ali, who said he was among the thousands of people who entered Hasinas residence. We went there out of anger. Nothing is left there. Everything suggests that the army top brass forced Hasina from power, after concluding that her attempt to cling to office through bloody repression was dangerously destabilizing Bangladeshi capitalism. The working class has yet to intervene in the crisis as an independent political force. But in ever greater numbers working people have joined the protest movement that university students initiated at the beginning of last month over a regressive government job allocation system. They have done so to oppose the state violence and to voice their anger at mass unemployment, grinding poverty and ever-deepening social inequality. The military and the ruling class clearly fear the continued disruption of the countrys massive garment industry will reduce profits, exacerbate the countrys economic crisis and fuel worker unrest. On Sunday, almost one hundred people, including 13 police officers, were killed in clashes between anti-government protesters and security forces across the country. This brought the death toll since the protest movement began to over 300. Despite the repression and a blanket government curfew, the Students Against Discrimination called for a mass march Monday on the prime ministers official residence in, Dhaka, to demand Hasinas resignation. Up until Monday, Hasina had pursued a hard line, unleashing the police, including the notorious anti-terrorism Rapid Action Battalion and thugs organized by the Awami League, her political party, against peaceful protesters. She denounced the students as terrorists, gave shoot-to-kill orders for those defying a government curfew, and falsely claimed the movement had been orchestrated by the main opposition parties the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Jamaat-e-Islami, an Islamist communalist party. While the army was deployed against the protests, the police played the principal role in the attempt to violently suppress them. This included arresting thousands. According to press reports, at a meeting last Friday junior officers expressed concern to their superiors about having to shoot unarmed protesters. Several hours after the Chief of Army staff announced Hasinas resignation, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin said that he had presided over a meeting with General Waker-uz-Zaman, the heads of the navy and air force, and leaders of the opposition. The president said that the meeting had decided parliament should be dissolved to allow for the establishment of an interim government, and that the army would take measures to normalize the prevailing anarchic situation. The current parliament, which is dominated by Hasinas Awami League, was elected last January in a vote that the BNP and its allies, most importantly the Jamaat-e-Islami, boycotted. They cited the governments record of repression of its political opponents and refusal to allow for a caretaker government to be appointed to oversee the election. President Shahabuddin also announced that the meeting agreed the BNPs longtime leader Khaleda Zia, who was jailed in 2018 in a corruption case, should be immediately freed. The leaders of the Students Against Discrimination have welcomed the intervention of the Bangladesh army, which is the bulwark of capitalist rule and has a notorious record of repression and dictatorship. From all reports, the student body is actively participating in the formation of the promised interim government. Such a government will be a right-wing capitalist regime tasked with restoring order and continuing to implement the austerity and privatization measures that the Hasina-led Awami League government agreed to in 2023 in exchange for a $4.7 billion IMF bailout loan. In all likelihood the BNP and its allies will have a prominent place in the interim government. But the military will remain the power behind the throne. For decades official politics in Bangladesh have revolved around the bitter rivalry between Hasina and her Awami League and Zia and her BNP. Hasina emerged as leader of the Awami League following the 1975 assassination of her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the most prominent political leader in the Bangladesh independence struggle and the countrys then president, as part of a successful military coup. Zia became the de facto leader of the BNP in 1983, two years after her husband, Ziaur Rahman, the partys founder and Bangladeshs fifth president, was assassinated by a group of army officers. Both parties are beholden to international capital, have extensive crony capitalist and corrupt patronage networks, have used repression and anti-democratic skullduggery against their political rivals, and met any serious opposition movement within the working class with an iron fist. The BNP, it need be noted, only declared its support for the the student movement in mid-July, after masses of people had taken to the streets in outrage at the government repression. There are many parallels between the crisis now unfolding in Bangladesh, the worlds eighth most populous country, and that which roiled Sri Lanka two years ago. In July 2022, mass protests and strikes chased President Gotabaya Rajapaksa from power. But with the assistance of the trade unions and the opposition parties a new government was soon installed under the avowedly pro-big business and pro-Washington Ranil Wickremesinghe. It has pushed through savage IMF austerity measures while building up the repressive forces of the state in preparation for a violent showdown with the working class. To prevent a similar outcome, Bangladeshi workers and students must chart a new course based on Leon Trotskys program of permanent revolutionthe program that animated the October 1917 Russian Revolution and the subsequent struggle against its Stalinist degeneration. The working class in Bangladesh must constitute itself as an independent political force, in opposition to the entire political establishment and all sections of the ruling class and its state apparatus. It must strive to rally the rural toilers behind it in the struggle for a workers and peasants government, committed to the socialist reorganization of economic life and the mobilization of the international working class against imperialism and global capital. The pseudo-left International Socialist Organisation (ISO) in New Zealand published an article on July 23 reasserting its full-throated support for the US-NATO imperialist powers as they escalate the war in Ukraine against Russia. The article, The invasion of Ukraine by Serah Allison, calls for an even greater supply of weapons for the Zelensky regime. [Photo: ISO Aotearoa] This is the first article the ISO has published on the war in more than two yearsan extraordinary gap, considering that this is the most devastating European conflict since World War II. The ISOs previous statement in March 2022 echoed the US propaganda falsely depicting the Russian invasion as unprovoked, glorified the Zelensky regime, and supported the imperialists military support for Ukraine. Since then, the US and NATO have relentlessly escalated the war, opposing any talk of a ceasefire, and sacrificing hundreds of thousands of lives in their effort to severely degrade Russias military and destabilise the Putin regime. Now, the ISO is again providing left cover for the imperialist powers as they lurch towards a war involving nuclear-armed powers that will have catastrophic consequences for the entire world. The US and its alliesincluding Australia and New Zealandare preparing a further escalation against Russia, and are supporting Israels genocide in Gaza and aggression against Lebanon and Iran. The article by Allison parrots the US and NATO propaganda that they are supporting self-determination and democracy in Ukraine, and that the Russian regime alone bears responsibility for the associated death and destruction. On this basis, the ISO declares that Ukraine has a right to self-determination even though its struggle is being used to strengthen NATO. Allison states that Putin invaded Ukraine to conquer land and resources, to create a buffer against NATO, and because he feared Ukrainian democracy would serve as a catalyst for similar demands inside Russia itself. Allison puts these words in quotation marks but does not mention the source: an April 6, 2023 article by the pro-imperialist US think tank, the Atlantic Council. The fact is that Russias invasion, while certainly reactionary and criminal, was directly instigated by the NATO powers. Allison declares that Putin was emboldened to launch his 2022 invasion after he got away with the annexation of the Crimea and parts of the Ukrainian Donbas in 2014. She does not mention that these annexations were provoked by a US-sponsored coup in 2014 in Ukraine, spearheaded by fascists from the Svoboda Party and the Right Sector militia, which replaced a Russian-aligned government with an unelected, pro-NATO regime. Russias annexations in 2014 were seized upon by the US and NATO to pour money into Ukraines military and provide training for fascist forces such as the Azov Battalion, while making clear that Ukraine would become a NATO member. The aim was to goad Russia into its invasion, which has played directly into the hands of the imperialist powers. Washington and the European powers want to reduce Russia to a subservient, semi-colonial status, as an essential step towards war against China, regarded by US imperialism as its main economic and geostrategic rival. Gaza, Yemen, Lebanon and especially Iran represent a third front in a developing world war, aimed at seizing and redividing the worlds resources and markets. The ISOs support for imperialism in Ukraine demolishes its pretence of being an anti-war organisation. While it has assisted in organising protests calling for the New Zealand ruling class to cease its support for the US-Israeli genocide in Gaza, the ISO simultaneously supports the US and NATO in their no less predatory and criminal war against Russia. Allison criticises NATO for failing to escalate the bloodshed fast enough, echoing the Zelensky regime, which has demanded more weapons to launch deeper attacks inside Russia. She writes that the NATO supply of munitions to Ukraine has been and remains critical in enabling Ukraine to fend off Russias military might, but complains that military supplies to Ukraine have not been unstinting and have been rationed. In fact, the NATO powers have provided Ukraine with tanks and long-range attack missiles and are now sending F-16 fighter jets. The recent NATO summit announced the establishment of a NATO office inside Ukraine to directly oversee the war. The entire European continent is militarising, with US missiles to be stationed in Germany, and Britains top general Sir Roland Walker calling for the military to double and then triple our fighting power. The ISOs claims that Ukraine is a democracy fighting for self-determination are lies. The Kiev regime is entirely dependent on the imperialist powers and has eviscerated democratic rights. Fearful of growing opposition to the war, Zelensky cancelled the 2024 election. Police have unleashed a reign of terror to enforce conscription, grabbing military-age males off the street to replenish the severely depleted army. Anti-war and socialist organisations are suppressed and persecuted. Twenty-five-year-old Bogdan Syrotiuk, a leader of the Young Guard of Bolshevik Leninists, which calls on workers across the former Soviet Union to unite against the war, has been jailed for publishing articles on the World Socialist Web Site (WSWS). The Ukrainian regime has blocked access to the WSWS. The ISO is silent on these developments. The pseudo-left organisation has ignored emails from the Socialist Equality Group in New Zealand calling on it to publicly oppose the arrest of Syrotiuk as part of the international campaign for his release. Allison dismisses as Russian propaganda the abundant evidence of fascists in Ukraines military leadership and the state apparatus. Her article declares that the significance of Nazi symbols and ideology appears to have been greatly overstated. To back up this assertion she quotes Alexander Ritzmann from the Counter Extremism Project (CEP), who says Ukraine is not a cesspit for Nazi sympathizers. The CEP is another pro-imperialist think tank based in the US, Germany and the UK. Its president Mike Wallace was a senior US State Department official and supporter of Republican President George W. Bush. As well as producing propaganda for the war against Russia, the CEP has issued many statements endorsing Israels genocide in Gaza. It denounced the decision by International Criminal Court prosecutors to seek arrest warrants for Israeli war criminals Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant as morally abhorrent. The fact that the ISO relies on such sources underlines its reactionary, pro-imperialist orientation. The level of fascist influence in Ukraine is obvious for anyone with eyes. Since 2014 streets have been renamed and monuments built to glorify Stepan Bandera and other Ukrainian nationalists who collaborated with the Nazis. Monuments to the Soviet Red Army, which defeated the Nazis, have been demolished. Fascists are increasingly calling the shots in the military. Zelensky recently replaced the commander of Ukraines Joint Forces, Lt. General Yuriy Sodol, after the head of the neo-Nazi Azov Battalion, Bohdan Krotevych, demanded his removal. The ISOs crude propaganda on behalf of the US and NATO reflects definite class interests. Like pseudo-left organisations in the US and internationally, it represents well-off layers of the middle class, in and around the trade unions and the establishment parties, which oppose any real struggle against war because it would threaten their privileged position. Over the past 40 years these organisations have transformed into open apologists for imperialism, supporting the US-led interventions against Yugoslavia, Syria, Libya and Russia. To the extent that pseudo-left tendencies lead the protests against the Gaza genocide, they are striving to limit them to making futile appeals to capitalist governments and to the trade union bureaucracy which is ensuring the continued supply of weapons for Israel. The ISOs fraudulent claim that the imperialist powers are engaged in a progressive war against Russia serves to disarm anti-genocide protesters by fostering the illusion that Washington and its allies can be pressured to support freedom and self-determination for Palestinians. This perspective has led the protests into a dead-end, as the ruling classes have flatly ignored all calls for a ceasefire in Gaza. In reality, Ukraine and the Middle East are different fronts in the same US-led drive for global domination. The same factories producing missiles, artillery and other weapons for Ukrainewhich the ISO supportsare also making weapons to be used against the oppressed people of Gaza, Lebanon, Yemen and throughout the Middle East. In New Zealand, the ISO supports the Labour Party and its ally the Greens, which are committed to strengthening New Zealands alliance with US imperialism. The previous Labour Party-led government sent NZ troops to Britain to help train Ukrainians to serve as cannon fodder against Russia. The current National Party-led government has continued to back the war against Russia, while also sending troops to the Middle East to assist in the bombing of Yemen. At the same time, both Labour and National support increased military spending and closer ties with the US in the Pacific in preparation for war with China. The Socialist Equality Group, the New Zealand supporters of the International Committee of the Fourth International, calls on workers and young people who want to fight against war to reject the pro-imperialist politics of the ISO and other pseudo-left groups. Workers in Russia and Ukraine have no interest in slaughtering each other to uphold the oligarchic regimes in Moscow or Kiev, or to expand the profits of the imperialist powers. A genuine anti-war movement can only be built by uniting workers internationally against their own national ruling classes. Such a movement must be consciously directed against the root cause of war: the capitalist system. This in turn requires the building of a socialist leadership, to break the working class from every capitalist party and organisation, including the pseudo-lefts. A dangerous fire at the Grosvenor coal mine in central Queensland, which burned for the entirety of July, demonstrated the lethal conditions that mining workers are still subjected to under the capitalist system, which subordinates safety concerns to profit considerations. The Grosvenor fire broke out on June 29 and burned for over a month, up to half a kilometre underground. Near the town of Moranbah, the Anglo American-owned mine is the largest underground coal operation in the state of Queensland. The precise cause of the ignition is yet to be made known, but it occurred on the mines longwall face. Anglo Americans Grosvenor Mine [Photo: Australasian Mine Safety Journal] Fortunately, none of the 150 workers who were on shift at the time were injured, but this can be put down more to the initiative and competence of the workers themselves in the evacuation procedure than any serious effort by Anglo American to protect its workers. Deadly conditions are not isolated to a single mine. They are found across the mining sector. That was underscored on Saturday when a 48-year-old miner was killed in an accident at the Byerwen surface coal mine, owned by Brisbane-based mining company QCOAL, in north Queenslands Bowen Basin. A Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) statement said, initial reports indicate it involved a pick and carry crane. The crew working on the Grosvenor longwall had a close call with serious injury or death. The initial flames reportedly shifted away from the workers instead of toward them. In the event of such a fire, with the threat of gas explosions looming, the workers are required to self-escape in perilous conditions. The Grosvenor workers were forced to evacuate in near-complete darkness, as power was cut out to prevent mining equipment from igniting in case of raised methane levels. The weeks of efforts to put the fire out consisted of sealing the mine and starving the fire of oxygen by using remotely operated bulldozers to push dirt into the shaft. The Grosvenor mine has a complex network of tunnels as deep as 500 metres underground. During the first few days of the fire, the locals living in the community were instructed to stay indoors to avoid exposure to smoke released from the mines ventilation shafts. Nearby residents bore witness to massive clouds of black smoke. According to Anglo American CEO Duncan Wanblad, the fire is finally believed to be extinguished as of August 1. But the mine will not re-open for some time, leaving its 1,400 employees with an uncertain future. Anglo American has extended their pay until the end of August, while promising to redeploy staff. The reality is that they are in limbo. Anglo American is trying to sell the five coal mines it owns in Australia, including Grosvenor. Wanblad has stated that if the longwall section of the mine ever does re-open, it will likely not be under Anglo Americans ownership. In 2020, five workers were severely injured in a methane explosion at the Grosvenor mine. One of those workers, Wayne Sellars, said workers had on numerous occasions raised safety concerns about high methane levels, which the management swiftly dismissed. They would tell us to keep going, Sellars said. The Construction Forestry Mining Maritime and Energy Union (CFMMEU) was also aware of the concerns raised by the workers, but failed to take adequate action to ensure their safety. After the 2020 explosion, the Queensland state Labor government announced an inquiry into the incident, aimed primarily at damage control. Mining and Resources Minister Scott Stewart ruled out legislative changes proposed by the head of the inquiry Terry Martin to compel witnesses to give all relevant evidence. As the WSWS reported at the time, Martin warned that without such legal amendments, the ability of the inquiry to establish the cause of the disaster would be seriously compromised. Stewart and the Labor government ignored these warnings. Anglo American demanded that Professor Andrew Hopkins, a health and safety expert from the Australian National University, recuse himself from the inquiry. This occurred after Hopkins gave a media interview in which he highlighted the similarities between the 2020 Grosvenor explosion and a disaster in 1994 that claimed the lives of 11 miners at BHPs nearby Moura No.2 coal mine. Hopkins noted that both involved workers raising concerns of high levels of methane gas and nothing effective was done. The state Labor government supported the demand for his removal, with not a word of condemnation from the CFMMEU. Despite all this, the inquiry could not completely cover up Anglo Americans gambling with the health and lives of workers. Some of the key findings included that the mine management did not cap production to a safe level, abandoned a series of essential safeguards designed to manage gas levels and did not carry out the required specific spontaneous combustion risk assessment. However, no charges were brought against Anglo American or any of its executives. Following the 2020 explosion, over 200 miners at Grosvenor signed a petition calling for the dismissal of the entire senior leadership team. The petition stated that management have given us no reason to believe they have addressed the culture of poor safety or that they have put in place measures that will prevent a repeat disaster. That assessment has been proven true by the recent fire. Anglo American and the Labor government are again engaged in damage control and calling for more fraudulent investigations. Stewart stated that the government would be looking at making sure this doesnt happen again. But the Labor government, backed by the union leaders, has covered up the causes of such disasters. According to Safe Work Australia, the mining industry is responsible for around eight deaths per year. Queensland has a particularly deadly record. When Luke O'Brien, 27, was crushed to death in the fuel-bay area at BHP Mitsubishi Alliances (BMA) Saraji Mine, in central Queensland in January, that took the toll to 24 in the past decade. The latest tragedy at Byerwen brings that total to 25. These are needless and avoidable deaths. In the words of University of Queensland Professor Robin Burgess-Limerick, a researcher with the Minerals Industry Safety and Health Centre: It is definitely possible to mine without fatalities. But that possibility cannot be realised within the exploitative capitalist framework. The only way forward is workers to organise independently in rank-and-file committees and join the struggle for a socialist reorganisation of society that puts safety before corporate profits. Israel and its allies continued Monday with preparations for a war against Iran, which is expected to launch a retaliatory strike soon for Israels assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh during a visit to Tehran. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told his G7 counterparts late Sunday night that American intelligence believed Iran and Hezbollah could launch such an operation at any time. People carry the coffin of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh who was assassinated by Israel on Wednesday, during his funeral ceremony at the Tehran University campus, in Tehran, Iran, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024. [AP Photo/Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader] Any action could be used by Israel as a pretext to light the fuse on a regional war it has been provoking for months. The atmosphere being whipped up in the country is indicated by the comments of the leader of the opposition Yair Lapid, who demanded of the government, Is it acceptable to you that for five days an entire country has been sitting and waiting for us to be bombed? Because there is no deterrence. The World Health Organisation has delivered 32 tons of emergency medical supplies to Lebanon in anticipation of a bloodbath. More and more countries are issuing advisory notices to their citizens leave the country. Speaking at the Israeli Air Forces underground command centre in Tel Aviv, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant told soldiers, We must prepare for all possibilities, including a quick transition to offense. A Defence Ministry statement added that Gallant had referred to the possibilities of offensive action in all combat sectors. Given that Israel has been carrying out offensive action, including repeated deadly strikes on neighbouring countries ever since the war began, what Gallant is referring to is a massive escalation. Major General Ori Gordin, head of the Israel Defense Forces Northern Command, told mayors and council leaders from the north of the country, I want you to know that our offensive plans going forward are ready and we are prepared for this, in all aspects, from me to every single one of the soldiers. Weve attacked and destroyed a lot in the last 10 months, but we still have work to do. We are determined and committed. Since the genocide in Gaza began, Israel has killed more than 450 people in Lebanon with cross-border strikes, including over 100 civilians, wreaking havoc across swathes of the countrys south. After an ineffectual drone attack from Hezbollah on Monday, an Israeli strike killed two people in the Lebanese village Mais Al-Jabal, including a paramedic who had been investigating the site for casualties of an earlier attack. Israels actions are closely coordinated with the United States and facilitated by its diplomatic pressure. A Monday meeting between Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi and US CENTCOM chief Michael Kurilla discussed security-strategic issues and joint assessments in the region, as part of the response to threats in the Middle East. The night before, Gallant met with US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin to brief him on security developments in the region and IDF readiness to defend Israel against potential threats posed by Iran and its proxies, according to the Israeli defence ministers press team. It stated: [Gallant] discussed a series of scenarios and corresponding defensive and offensive capabilities and expressed his appreciation to Secretary Austin for the close military and strategic coordination between Israel and the United States, including the current and future deployment of US military capabilities and force posture changes in defence of Israel. Gallant praised US leadership in forming a coalition of allies and partners to defend Israel and the region from a range of aerial attacks. This leadership has included recruiting many of the Arab governments to a campaign to stay Irans hand. US President Joe Biden spoke with Jordanian King Abdullah Monday, after the countrys Ayman Safadi made the first visit by a Jordanian foreign minister to Tehran in two decades. It is understood that he sought to convince Iranian leaders to minimise their response. Iran has now called a meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation for Wednesday, hosted by Saudi Arabia, where it is expected to canvass support for planned strikes against Israel. On Monday, Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani summoned international ambassadors to inform them that Tehran would exercise its legitimate and inherent right to prevent the terrorist act committed by the [Israeli] regime with the aim of protecting its national security. He added that it was the United Nations Security Councils failure to respond to Israels crimes that was mainly responsible for the dangerous tensions in the region. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani later said, Iran seeks to establish stability in the region, but this will only come with punishing the aggressor and creating deterrence against the adventurism of the Zionist regime. No one, Kanaani continued, has the right to doubt Irans legal right to punish the Zionist regime. Head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Hossein Salami said similarly that Israel will receive punishment in due time When they receive a blow, they will notice they are making mistakes. Highlighting the dangers of a war in the Middle East rapidly drawing in major powers besides the US, Russias former defence secretary and current security council secretary Sergei Shoigu flew to Tehran for discussions with Iranian leaders, including President Masoud Pezeshkian. On the ground in Gaza, criminal attacks by the IDF against civilians continue. Simultaneous strikes on the Hassan Salama and Nassr schools and al Aqsa hospital in Gaza City killed at least 30 people, including children and the elderly. A witness, Abdullah Akila, described what happened: We were just sitting down when a bomb fell here, and another hit the school next door. The two schools were housing displaced civilians and children We have been retrieving the remains of children for the past hour. This is so unfair. How long will we remain like this? We are tired Enough! Another man told an Al Jazeera reporter, torn bodies are everywhere, and another: They killed children and old people. They killed women. Only God will save us. What did the children do? At al Aqsa hospital, where at least five people were killed, the tents of several displaced people were set on fire by the blasts. Rescue operations were proceeding with bare hands, Al Jazeera journalist Tareq Abu Azzoum reported, since there isnt enough fuel to operate the vast majority of bulldozers, and due to the Israeli attacks on bulldozers at the municipal facilities. He described a surge of Israeli attacks on evacuation centres. The genocidal savagery of Israels war was spelled out explicitly by fascist Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who complained to a press conference that any aid at all was getting into Gaza, lamenting, Nobody will let us cause two million civilians to die of hunger even though it might be justified and moral until our hostages are returned. Confirming the fact that the war in Gaza is the spearhead of an offensive also targeted against the Palestinians in the West Bank and in Israel, Smotrich tweeted later in the day that he was expanding Israeli settlement building to remove the threat of Palestinian statehood. Stopping the Arab takeover of the open areas, fighting the terrorist financing of the Palestinian Authority and its leaders and complete Israeli control of the territory [the occupied West Bank]. This is the only way. Twenty-five Palestinians, including two children, were arrested in the West Bank in overnight raids Sunday-Monday, their homes trashed and families threatened. Two entire homes were destroyed in Jenin, and a marketplace in Nablus was set on fire by IDF soldiers using burning tyres. President Joe Biden stands with Shawn Fain, President of the United Auto Workers, at the United Auto Workers' political convention, Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024, in Washington. [AP Photo/Alex Brandon] The appearance of United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain on CBS televisions Face the Nation program Sunday further illustrates the integration of the union apparatus with corporate politics, especially in the election campaign of Kamala Harris. The brief interview hosted by moderator Ed OKeefe focused on Fains endorsement of Harris and his preference for her vice presidential running mate. Harris is expected to announce her choice Tuesday at a rally in Philadelphia and will appear at a UAW event in Metro Detroit Wednesday along with her VP pick. The Face the Nation interview was only the most prominent of a series of interviews in the past week in which the UAW president boosted Harris and provided advice to her campaign, including a recent interview by the Detroit News. For the last year, Fain has been among the foremost supporters of Bidens re-election continuing this support even after the presidents disastrous debate performance. Fain ominously pledged to go to war for Biden and regularly promotes US auto plants as the arsenal of democracy, a propaganda phrase from World War II. Fain and the UAW bureaucracy have combined support for Genocide Joe with bogus support for a ceasefire in Gaza, which they have issued only to get out in front of opposition to the US-backed war crime before it escapes the control of the pro-war Democratic Party. He is not only a surrogate for the Democrats election campaign, but for US imperialism. Biden appointed him to the Export Council, a trade-war body, and invited him to a state reception for the Prime Minister of Japan, who visited the US to discuss plans for war against China. He was also an invited guest at Bidens State of the Union address to Congress earlier this year. The UAW president speaks for Bidens capitalist, pro-war government, not for workers. He was elected union president in 2022 as a result of massive ballot fraud in a vote overseen by the Department of Labor. Meanwhile, Fain and the bureaucracy are hated by workers for imposing huge sellouts, are under investigation by a federal monitor for corruption, and demands are growing for a new UAW election, overseen by the rank-and-file. In his Face the Nation interview Fain was effusive in his praise for Harris, a former prosecutor, presenting her as a friend of the working class and the last line of defense for American democracy against Trump. We look at the body of work between the candidates. And when you put Kamala Harris and Donald Trump side by side, theres a very telling difference in who stands with working class people, and who left working class people behind. When asked to explain why workers should support the Democratic ticket, Fain provided a string of vague generalities and banalities, Wages are being suppressed. We dont have adequate health care. People want retirement security, and they want their lives back. They dont have to work seven days a week or two and three jobs. Kamala Harris gets that. The claim that Harris is pro-worker is completely absurd. One of the top priorities of the Biden White House has been to curb demands for better wages and to suppress the growing class struggle, in order to deal with domestic dissent and free up resources for Wall Street and for war. He is seeking to build on the bureaucracys close connections with the government, which he relied upon in 2009 as part of the Obama White House to slash starting wages in the auto industry by half as part of a federal bailout deal. This alliance with the union bureaucracy is such a key element of Bidens foreign and domestic policies that last month he described them as his domestic NATO in a visit to the AFL-CIO headquarters. The conditions of poverty and overwork Fain describes are those the UAW, as well as the Biden/Harris administration, have helped to impose in the auto industry. Thousands of autoworkers have lost their jobs since Fain and the bureaucracy imposed a sellout contract last year, following a limited standup strike which did not seriously impact production. Many of those who still have their jobs have been forced to work massive overtime. That deal was enthusiastically endorsed by Biden himself, who spoke alongside Fain at a pro-contract rally opposite thousands of genocide protesters. Not able to cite any actual pro-worker accomplishments of the Biden-Harris administration, Fain grasped at straws. At one point he ventured, And you want to know what Kamala Harris and the Biden administration did and their team did? They went to work when they took over the White House. And they actually put a path forward, they located a new battery plant in Lordstown, Ohio. Fain here referenced the new Ultium Cells LLC plant built by General Motors in alliance with South Korean-based LG Energy Solution. The facility provided only 1,600 jobs, a fraction of the workers employed at the former Lordstown Assembly that closed in 2019. Earlier this year, the UAW signed a contract that allows Ultium Cells to set a standard for low wages at other battery plants slated to open in the near future. As for the claim that Harris election is the only thing standing in the way of dictatorship, Trump and the fascist movement around him are able to capitalize on the deep distrust and hatred of the Democratic Party for its role in bipartisan attacks on the working class and its open warmongering. The immense danger of fascismwhich Fain in fact downplayed, presenting Trump only as an unstable and selfish individualarises from the suppression of independent working class politics, in which the bureaucracy itself has played a key role. The appearance of Teamsters General President Sean OBrien at last months Republican National Convention is a sign that there is no hard dividing line between the program of fascism and the nationalist, pro-war, anti-socialist outlook of the union bureaucracy. To the extent that OBriens speech has been criticized by other union bureaucrats, it was not for his ultra-nationalist Buy America rhetoric but his choice of venue at the RNC rather than the DNC. The words Gaza, genocide, Ukraine or war never passed Fains lips in his interview. Nor did the UAW president mention that most Democratic members of the US House and Senate gave a standing ovation July 24 to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the butcher of Gaza, who spoke before a joint session of Congress. Fain also neglected to mention that Harris, the so-called friend of workers, personally met with Netanyahu to pledge continued US support to the Gaza genocide, including expanding Israeli aggression against Lebanon and Iran that are bringing the Middle East to the brink of a catastrophic war. The UAW responded to the visit, which triggered significant anger, by co-signing a statement with six other unions calling for the Biden administration to halt arms shipments to Israel. The purpose of this statement is only to present the Biden White House as an innocent bystander and potential moderating force in the genocide, even as it has armed its Israeli proxy to the teeth. The moderator then asked Fain to discuss his preferences for Harris vice presidential running mate. Fain named Democratic Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky, the multi-millionaire son of former Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear (2007 to 2015) as well as Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who mobilized national guard troops against anti-police violence protests and has starved funding for public education. Fain mildly criticized leading vice presidential possibility Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro for his support for school vouchers, a right-wing scheme aimed at defunding public education. Fain effused, a Harris and Beshear ticket would be unbeatable. I believe both of them would just be such dynamic candidates. But we really like Tim Walz from Minnesota also, (I) think hes an awesome guy for labor. One hundred percent behind labor. And those would be our top two if we had to pick any. But ultimately ... Vice President Harris has to pick who shes most comfortable with... The truth is that whether Trump or Harris wins in November, workers face an all-out fight in defense of their jobs, living standards and democratic rights amid the threat of global war. This situation underscores the urgent need of the working class to intervene in the political crisis against both parties, on the basis of an independent, anti-capitalist and socialist program. Since mid-2021, global prices for Australias biggest export, iron ore, have plummeted from a peak of $US215 per metric ton to $97 as of this July 31. The prices are predicted to keep falling, perhaps to as low as the $60s. This precipitous drop, mirrored by the prices of key critical minerals, has serious implications for the Australian economy and government revenues, which depend heavily on these exports, especially to China, the countrys largest market by far, and the worlds biggest mineral importer. Reclaimer parked at the Brockman 4 mine in the Pilbara region of Western Australia [Photo by Calistemon via Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 The price crashes are, above all, a barometer of the mounting impact of the global downturn and the plunge in Chinas economic growth rate, which has been exacerbated by US tariffs, sanctions and other increasingly aggressive economic warfare measures. These measures, taken by successive US administrations, are part of a broader drive to cut off Chinese access to hi-tech industrial development and cripple its economy. This offensive is intensifying as Washington prepares for what would be a catastrophic war against China, which it has identified as the primary threat to American power worldwide. The US moves include ending, as soon as possible, Chinas current alleged dominance over the processing of many rare earths and other critical minerals that are essential for war, as well as for super-computers, AI, batteries and industrial and vehicle electrification. Over the past year alone, world iron ore prices have fallen 26 percent. With nearly 80 percent of Australias iron ore exports (and 35 percent of its total exports) going to China, that signals an end to the super-profits derived from Chinas economic growth over the past two decades. By the end of July, Australias biggest iron ore exporters had already suffered sharp share price falls. BHP Group, Rio Tinto and Fortescue had experienced year-to-date share price declines of 18 percent, 16 percent and 36 percent, respectively, wiping billions off their valuations. Over the past 17 years, Chinese economic growth has decelerated from an approximate average annual 10 percent to below 5 percent, whilst the Shanghai Composite Index has halved to under 2,900 points. The US-led economic warfare has compounded the crisis in the Chinese residential property market and the economy more broadly. The Biden-Harris administration has kept most of President Donald Trumps China tariffs and intensified the focus on the high-tech sectorparticularly electric vehicles and batteries. Regardless of who wins Novembers US presidential election, this offensive will accelerate in an effort to halt the relative decline of American capitalism over the past four decades. For his second presidential run, Trump has already proposed a 10 percent tariff on every import, a 60 percent tariff on all Chinese imports, and a 100 percent tariff on all cars made outside the United States. There clearly will be a further impact on iron ore prices and the value of Australias exports. The latest Australian government Resources and energy quarterly (REQ) report, published in July, forecast iron ore at US$77/tonne in 2026. The Commonwealth Bank of Australia predicts a long-term price of $68. Macquarie Bank expects the price to drop to the $70s or even $60s before the end of the 2020s. Iron ore revenues are not the only casualty. Prices for Australian-mined lithium, nickel, copper and other strategic minerals are plummeting as well. Copper prices have declined 20 percent from $5.11/lb. to $4.08/lb. over the past two months. China is the largest consumer of refined copper, with over 50 percent global market share. Prices of lithiumAustralias largest commodity in committed capital expenditure through to 2030, greater than even iron orehave collapsed over the past 12 months. Lithium had previously surpassed liquefied natural gas as Australian capitalisms second biggest export to China behind iron ore, with sales soaring to $A7.4 billion between January and June last year, from only $300 million in the same period of 2021. Since early 2022, the price of another key rare earth, an oxide of neodymium and praseodymium, crucial for making powerful magnets, has dived from $145 a kilogram to $47. Nickel prices have fallen by more than two-thirds, from a high of $US50,000 per metric ton in 2022 to about $16,500 recently. Mine workers jobs are being eliminated. The Finniss lithium mine in the Northern Territory suspended operations in January, followed by more closures. In the latest cutback, up to 300 jobs are to be axed at US-based lithium giant Albemarles Kemerton plant near Bunbury in Western Australia (WA), adding to the thousands destroyed in the mining industry since the beginning of the year. BHP has written off its Nickel West division in WA as worthless and is preparing to suspend operations. Iron ore billionaire Andrew Forrest, who controls Fortescue, is shutting down his WA nickel mines. These developments are also slashing tax intakes for the already debt-ridden Australian federal and state governments. According to estimates, for every $US10 fall in the price of iron ore, Australias gross domestic product falls by $A6.5 billion and government tax receipts by $A1.3 billion. The mining reversal is occurring despite the Albanese Labor government spending billions of dollars in subsidies and corporate aid to bolster critical minerals output, supposedly to make Australia a mining superpower. Labors May budget allocated $22.7 billion over 10 years for the governments Made in Australia package, primarily through corporate tax incentives, including $13 billion in production tax credits for critical mineral extraction and clean hydrogen production. That was on top of nearly $4 billion already handed out this year in largely unspecified subsidies, grants, cheap loans and other forms of support for similar ventures. For example, the Albanese government advanced a $1.05 billion non-recourse loan through its Critical Minerals Facility to Iluka Resources to build a rare-earths processing plant at its mineral sands operation at Eneabba in WA. The project was budgeted in 2022 to have a total cost of $1.2 billion, but in February the company revealed the cost had blown out to between $1.7 billion and $1.8 billion. It has been in talks with the government about further support, but at current prices the venture looks doubtful. These handouts are bound up with matching the United States, Canada, Japan and the European powers in subsidising industries to undercut China and develop war economies. At the same time, the government is seeking to assist US efforts to reduce reliance on supplies and refining in China, as part of the preparations for war against China. The critical mineral supply issue is of paramount importance to the AUKUS military pact between the US, UK and Australia to provide long-range, nuclear-powered attack submarines, hypersonic missiles and other cutting-edge weaponry to be based in Australia. A report by the government-sponsored Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) last year noted: Some 3,300 items of US military equipment depend on rare earths, which have few known or potential substitutes. They include almost every weapon being used by combatants in Ukraine as well as every fighter jet, navy vessel and nuclear weapon on Earth. While cutting spending in real terms on public health, education, housing and other vital social services, and handing out pittances for cost-of-living relief, Albanese and his ministers are allocating hundreds of billions of dollars for AUKUS and other war plans. The May budget confirmed soaring military spending. It featured $330 billion for new weapon systems, including long-range missiles, over the decade and the near doubling of annual spending from $53 billion this financial year to $100 billion by 203334, or 2.4 percent of the gross domestic product. Workers and young people in Australia are increasingly paying a heavy price for this program of war and austerity, and much worse is to come as the economic fallout deepens from the US-led confrontation with China. On Friday, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin revoked a plea agreement negotiated two days earlier between prosecutors and three defendants, who have been charged with murder and conspiracy for their alleged role in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001. US Secretary of Defense, Lloyd J. Austin at 20th International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, June 2, 2023. [AP Photo/Vincent Thian] In exchange for guilty pleas, the defendantsKhalid Shaikh Mohammed, Walid bin Attash and Mustafa al-Hawsawiwould have avoided the death penalty and been sentenced to a maximum of life in prison. For their part, the US military prosecutors sought the plea agreements to move the cases forward and get around more than 10 years of military commission pretrial proceedings over the torture of the defendants by the CIA during their detention. The men were held by the US government at CIA black sites between 2003 and 2006, before they were transferred to the prison camp at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The decision by Secretary Austin to relieve retired Brigadier General Susan K. Escallier of her role as the senior Defense Department official overseeing the case is both a demonstration of the lawlessness of the military commissions and a de facto endorsement of the torture by the Biden administration. In a three-sentence memorandum signed by Austin, the defense secretary wrote: I have determined that, in light of the significance of the decision to enter into pre-trial agreements with the accused in the above-referenced case, responsibility for such a decision should rest with me as the superior convening authority under the Military Commissions Act of 2009. Effective immediately, I hereby withdraw your authority in the above-referenced case to enter into a pre-trial agreement and reserve such authority to myself. Austin continued, Effective immediately, in the exercise of my authority, I hereby withdraw from the three pre-trial agreements that you signed on July 31, 2024, in the above-referenced case. According to an unnamed senior Pentagon official who spoke to the New York Times, the decision to remove Escallier was made by the secretary alone and the White House was not involved. The official said Mr. Austin had never supported a plea deal and wanted the military commission trials to proceed, the Times report said. Austin is supporting the torture and ongoing military commissions at Guantanamo Bay, which are operated in complete violation of fundamental democratic rights. Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell had called the plea agreement a revolting abdication of the governments responsibility to defend America and provide justice. Fascistic Republican Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas had called the agreement disgraceful and an insult to the victims of the attacks. Cotton introduced legislation aimed at overturning the plea deal. Democratic Senator from Illinois and chairman of the Judiciary Committee Richard Durbin had supported the plea agreement as a small measure of justice and finality to the victims [of the 9/11 terror attacks] and their loved ones, while saying nothing about the decades-long violations of the US Constitution and international law in the proceedings at Guantanamo Bay. A group called September 11th Families for Peaceful Tomorrows issued a statement denouncing Austins revocation of the plea deals, saying: That the secretary has now overreached and undertaken direct oversight of the 9/11 commission is cause for enormous concern. While we understand there are family members who are opposed to plea agreements, the reality stands that the 9/11 accused were tortured and several were sodomized. If any entity is at fault for the inability to prosecute this case with a slam dunk, its the torturers. Because of the torture, the 9/11 accused will not be put to death. And any administration official or member of Congress who says otherwise is either uninformed or politically pandering. Anthony D. Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), issued a statement saying that Austins edict prevented a guilty verdict in the most important criminal case of the 21st century, adding that it violates the law. He said his organization would challenge it in court. Romero went on to write: Its also more than a little ironic that Secretary Austins gung-ho insistence on executing the 9/11 defendants directly contradicts the Biden Administrations public commitment to ending the death penalty. The United States has spent decades and tens of millions of dollars trying to secure a death sentence that cannot be upheld in the face of the governments torture. The military detention, torture and prosecution of the 9/11 defendants without due process is part of the attacks by the American political system on basic democratic rights. That the unlawful treatment of the detainees at Guantanamo Bay is part of the deepening crisis of the entire US political system is shown by the fact that these prosecutions have been maintained by four different administrations, two Republican (Bush 2001-2008, Trump 2017-2020) and two Democratic (Obama 2009-2016, Biden 2021-2024). The rendition of the defendants to CIA black sites and their torture are not in dispute. Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, 59, a US-educated engineer and avowed jihadist, is accused of devising the plan to hijack airplanes and fly them into buildings. Prosecutors allege that he presented Osama bin Laden with the plan in 1996 and then helped train and direct some of the hijackers. Mohammed and Hawsawi, 55, were captured together in Pakistan in March 2003. Mohammed was held in secret CIA prisons in Afghanistan and Poland, where he was waterboarded 183 times until he was transferred to the naval base at Guantanamo in September 2006. Hawsawi is believed to have been held at CIA black sites Afghanistan and Lithuania, where he was subjected to waterboarding and rectal examinations conducted with excessive force, which caused serious injuries for which he was denied medical attention. Walid bin Attash, in his mid-40s, is from Yemen. Prosecutors allege he helped in the preparation of the 1998 East Africa Embassy bombings and the USS Cole bombing and was a bodyguard for Osama bin Laden. He was apprehended by the CIA in Karachi in 2003 and rendered to black sites in Afghanistan and Poland. Although Attash has only one leg, he was forced to stand in stress positions while his torturers removed his prosthetic leg. HANOI, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's gold bar prices have plummeted by around 1 million Vietnamese dong (39.7 U.S. dollars) per tael on Tuesday morning amid plunging global gold prices, local media reported. At 9 a.m. local time Tuesday, Saigon Jewelry Company (SJC) Limited reported declines of 800,000 dong (31.8 dollars) to 1.3 million dong (51.7 dollars) per tael, with SJC gold now trading at 77 million dong (3,063 dollars) to 79 million dong (3,143 dollars) per tael. DOJI gold and jewellery corporation quoted SJC gold at the same prices. The gold ring prices slightly decreased by 50,000 dong (1.9 dollars) to 100,000 dong (3.9 dollars) compared to Monday's trading session, Vietnam News Agency reported. A tael equals 37.5 grams or 1.2 ounces. The Yi ethnic group in southwest China's Sichuan Province is celebrating the torch festival, which runs from July 19 to August 19 this year. Join Xinhua's Li Chenxi to experience this vibrant gathering. #GLOBALink SYDNEY, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- An Australian doctor has been identified as the man killed by a crocodile after he slipped from the banks of a river in the country's northeastern state of Queensland, local media reported on Tuesday. David Hogbin, a 40-year-old doctor from the neighboring state of New South Wales, was with family members when he fell into the Annan River near Cooktown in Far North Queensland, and failed to resurface on Saturday, according to the Australian broadcaster ABC News. Police said on Tuesday that human remains were located in a crocodile that was shot dead at Cooktown on Monday. "A formal identification process is underway. However, it is believed the remains are those of a missing 40-year-old New South Wales man," Queensland Police Service said in a statement. "Further testing will be conducted to determine a positive identity." The 4.9-m crocodile was shot dead by wildlife rangers as part of the search for the missing man, who was believed to have been taken by the reptile after slipping into the Annan River, according to the Cairns Post, a major newspaper in Far North Queensland. The animal was located 4 km upstream from Crocodile Bend, where the man was taken when he slipped and fell into the river. The crocodile, which is believed to have dragged the man underwater in front of his family, had a distinctive mark on its snout, the Cairns Post reported. Finally, we have our first official look at The White Lotus season three. On Sunday, right before the House of the Dragon finale, HBO dropped a sneak peek of the highly anticipated third installment, slated to return to Max in 2025. While there isnt a ton of teaser to dissect, the brief clip showed first-look footage of several new characters checking into a luxe resort in sun-soaked Southeast Asia. More from Robb Report What happens in Thailand, stays in Thailand, we hear a female voice say in the video at the 52-second mark. It was previously reported that season three would be filmed around Bangkok, Phuket, and Ko Samui and take place at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, in addition to Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas. To fans disappointment, the first teaser doesnt give away the plot, however, it does show the only returning cast member Natasha Rothwell. In season one, Rothwell played spa manager Belinda Lindsey. But based on the clip, (mainly the look on her face and the fact that shes not in uniform) it appears she could be back as a guest this time. New luxuries await you in Thailand. Season 3 of the @HBO Original Series #TheWhiteLotus is coming soon to Max. pic.twitter.com/6f25m4MI5f Max (@StreamOnMax) August 5, 2024 The video also offers a glimpse at what could be a new Mossbacher-type family helmed by newcomers Parker Posey, Jason Isaacs, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Sarah Catherine Hook, and Sam Nivola. In another shot, Leslie Bibb and Michelle Monaghan are lounging together by the pool. Walton Goggins, Carrie Coon, Aimee Lou Wood, and Lisa Manobal of Blackpink are also set to star in season three alongside Dom Hetrakul, Tayme Thapthimthong, Christian Friedel, Morgana OReilly, Lek Patravadi, Shalini Peiris, Nicholas Duvernay, Arnas Fedaravicius, Charlotte Le Bon, and Julian Kostov. HBO renewed The White Lotus for season three in November of last year, but production on the forthcoming installment was delayed due to the 2023 writers strike. Following the renewal, the shows creator, Mike White, confirmed that the next season would be set in Thailand after season one took place in Maui and season two in Sicily. In an interview earlier this year with Vanity Fair, Coon teased that season three would focus on death. He [White] had a season about money; he had a season about sex. And this is his season about death, Coon told the magazine. So here we are in this Buddhist country. It bumps up against some things in my own life right now that are really interesting to think about, and so Im feeling incredibly gratified. White also revealed that itll be a supersized season of The White Lotus thats even longer, bigger, and crazier than previous installments. Buckle up! Sign up for Robb Report's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Pander Bears In a bizarre bid to score points with kids these days, former president Donald Trump was publicly gifted a custom-wrapped Cybertruck that was emblazoned with a photo of him right after surviving an assassination attempt last month. The gifter was none other than white nationalist man-child and popular streamer Adin Ross, who has a long track record of using homophobic slurs, getting banned from Twitch several times, and attracting a predominantly male audience. In other words, it's exactly the kind of demographic Trump is trying to pander to in the run-up to his reelection bid. The only problem? He couldn't seem to summon up any genuine enthusiasm for the brutalist pickup, probably because he's a notorious hater of electric vehicles. "Wow, thats an Elon!" Trump exclaimed. "Elon youre great. I dont know if youre seeing this, but youre really good." https://twitter.com/SawyerMerritt/status/1820528254501224700 Notice Me The news comes after the former president proclaimed that he would now be "for electric cars" because "Elon endorsed me very strongly." It takes astonishingly little effort to follow the money. Last month, the Wall Street Journal reported that Musk was donating $45 million a month to a pro-Trump political action committee called the America PAC, which the mercurial CEO later denied. To connect with the septuagenarian who could've easily been the 23-year-old streamer's grandfather Ross decided to sit him down inside the truck and play some oldies, including "All the Leaves Are Brown" by the Mamas & the Papas. "This is a great system," Trump told a laughing Ross. Trump was willing to fully debase himself during the bizarre interaction, going as far as to pull some incredibly awkward dance moves. "I'll tell you about TikTok," he said after stiffly shimmying back and forth. "Trump is going to keep TikTok going. Biden and Harris have no idea what it means." Hilariously, if Trump did accept Ross' lavish gift, he may have violated campaign finance laws. As Rolling Stone reports, contributions from a private individual are limited to just $3,300, and the Cybertruck could easily be worth over $100,000. "Giving gifts valued at tens of thousands of dollars to a candidate amounts to an illegal and excessive campaign contribution," campaign finance watchdog Brendan Fischer told Rolling Stone. "I suspect that once Trump talks to his lawyers, well get an announcement that he is turning down the gifts or donating them to charity." In short, the incredibly awkward interaction was an absolute car crash that likely didn't convince anybody who wasn't already planning on voting for Trump. If anything, the appearance just shows Trump's willingness to throw himself at the feet of Musk a desperate bid to score political points and perhaps shore up some much-needed financing. More on Trump: Trump Says He Supports Electric Cars Now That Elon Musk Endorses Him Rihanna Just Stepped Out Looking Absolutely Incredible at Crop Over Festival in Barbados Rihanna stepped out in Barbados for the Crop Over festival, looking iconic in a bejeweled outfit with a matching headpiece and gorgeous wings. According to TMZ, this is the first time she's been at Crop Over since 2019, so this is a major moment! Charles & Sandy Pitt-Shanice King / BACKGRID In the past, Rihanna has worked on her Crop Over looks with Lauren Austin Designs (tbd on if she designed this year's look, but based on an initial Instagram sleuth, seems like it!) "I enjoy working with Rihanna because she constantly challenges the norm in the fashion world, pushes the boundaries, and is not afraid to break the rules," Lauren told Nylon back in 2018. "She does not care about what others think and she does and wears what she wants. She is an amazing personvery easygoing, fun, and friendly. "I was a little nervous at first because I was not sure what she thought about my work," she added. "But once I met her, she made me feel very at ease. I was very excited and happy with my work. She told me how much she loved my work. She made me very comfortable, and I havent felt nervous since." Just FYI, Rihanna spoke about her love for Barbados to Interview back in April, saying "Barbados will always be home. One hundred percent. Im still a citizen after all these years." Love to see her back at Crop Over! You Might Also Like Scott Peterson Speaks Out for 1st Time in 20 Years, Months After L.A. Innocence Project Takes Up Case 'Face to Face with Scott Peterson' will be released on Peacock on Aug. 20 Justin Sullivan/Getty Scott Peterson in 2005 Scott Peterson is speaking out nearly 20 years after he was convicted of the murders of his wife Laci Peterson and their unborn child Conner. A new Peacock true-crime docuseries, Face to Face with Scott Peterson, will take a fresh look at his criminal case and give the audience some insight into Peterson's side of the story. The trailer for the three-part docuseries teased Petersons first on-camera interview since 2003, with him appearing on a FaceTime call. The series will cover all sides of the case, including the conviction and Jon Buehler's opinion, who worked as a detective on the case. He didnt want to pay child support, didnt want to pay spousal [support] and this is the way he thought about getting out of it, Buehler said in the trailer. Related: Where Is Scott Peterson Now? Inside His Life in Prison Amid L.A. Innocence Project Case The trailer also features Peterson's sister-in-law Janey Peterson, who said that she believed Scott was wrongfully convicted of her sisters murder. The deeper you get into this case, the more questions you have, a voice says in the trailer. Debbie Noda/Modesto Bee/Tribune News Service via Getty Images Scott Peterson in 2003 The docuseries will also feature conversations with former Modesto Police Department lead detective Al Brocchini, Scotts former defense attorney Lara Yeretsian, and former ABC News Producer Mike Gudgell, among others, according to a press release. The docuseries will also cover the latest development of the Los Angeles Innocence Project taking over Scotts case in 2024. Related: Scott Peterson Back in Court After L.A. Innocence Project Claims Evidence Suggests He Didn't Kill Wife Laci Scott, who is now 51 years old, was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder in 2004 in the death of his wife, Laci, and their unborn son, Conner, after they went missing in 2002. He was sentenced to the death penalty in 2005. However, in 2020, PEOPLE confirmed that the California Supreme Court has reversed Scott's death penalty conviction and ordered a new sentencing trial for him. In its ruling, the court said that Peterson's guilty verdict would stay in place. "Peterson contends his trial was flawed for multiple reasons, beginning with the unusual amount of pretrial publicity that surrounded the case," the court said in its ruling. "We reject Petersons claim that he received an unfair trial as to guilt and thus affirm his convictions for murder." Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. But the court went on to say that the trial judge "made a series of clear and significant errors in jury selection that, under long-standing United States Supreme Court precedent, undermined Petersons right to an impartial jury at the penalty phase." Scott has maintained his innocence. Face to Face with Scott Peterson will be released on Peacock on Aug. 20. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Vice President and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate. Walz, 60, first appeared with Harris at a rally in Philadelphia on Aug. 6 when Harris announced that he would be joining her on the ticket. Joining Tim Walz onstage for the announcement was his wife, Gwen Walz. Gwen and Tim Walz have been married for three decades and share two children, Gus and Hope. Read on to learn more about Gwen Walz, nee Gwen Whipple. She is a lifelong Minnesotan Gwen Walz was born in Glencoe, Minnesota, and grew up alongside three sisters in the western part of the state. Walz received degrees from Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, and Minnesota State University, according to her biography on the official Minnesota governors office website. She and Tim Walz met when they were both teachers Gwen and Tim Walz met while they were teaching at the same school in Nebraska. Gwen Walz told the story of their first date in a 2019 Minnesota Star Tribune interview, recalling that they went to see the Michael Douglas movie Falling Down, followed by a trip to Hardees. Walz says that when her now-husband leaned in for a kiss, she said no, and he answered, Thats fine, but you should know Im going to marry you. They wed in 1994, and two years later they moved back to Minnesota, where they both worked as teachers. Its true: the best thing that happened to me was meeting and marrying Gwen. Without a doubt, I outkicked my coverage (to use a football term)! Tim Walz said in a 2018 bio when he was running for governor in Minnesota, according to KROC News. Gwen Walz went on to teach in public alternative, and migrant schools, experiences that shaped her vision, according to her official bio. She also served as an administrator and coordinator for the public school district of Mankato, Minnesota, for more than two decades. In June 2022, Tim Walz shared a photo of him and his wife for their anniversary. "Today, Gwen and I are celebrating our wedding anniversary! In 1994, on this day, we were surrounded by our family and dear friends," he wrote in the caption. "Today, we remain most grateful for them and each other!" Today, Gwen and I are celebrating our wedding anniversary! In 1994, on this day, we were surrounded by our family and dear friends. Today, we remain most grateful for them and each other! pic.twitter.com/esbnuuUlu7 Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) June 4, 2022 Today, the couple live in St. Paul, Minnesota. Walz has her own policy initiatives Walz was the first Minnesota first lady to have her own office in the Capitol, according to the Minnesota Star Tribune. After Tim Walz was elected governor, she hit the ground running with her own policy initiatives focused on education and corrections reform. While she is one of her husbands closest advisers, according to the Minnesota Star Tribune, Walz has said she appreciates her and her husbands distinct roles. Tim is the governor and makes the governor decisions, she said. We have a lot to do and everyone has a role and part in it. It is my responsibility to find my way forward in this new role, with respect and awareness. She has opened up about her mothers inspiring story Soon after becoming first lady, Walz also became a special assistant to the president for strategic partnerships at Augsburg University in Minneapolis. It was an especially meaningful role for her, because her mother, Linnea Whipple, attended Augsburg after becoming the first person in her family to graduate from high school. They saw her potential, and they didnt limit my mother at a time when women had lots of limits, Walz told university publication Augsburg Now in 2023. One of the most significant indicators of childrens future educational attainment is the educational attainment of their mothers, Walz also said. My mom started country school at four years of age because her brother wouldnt go to school without her, and she graduated from high school at 17," she continued. "I am grateful she had the drive to leave her family life and that Augsburg through its faith and alumni connections found my mother in her small town of 600. She has advocated for education in prisons around the country Walzs passion for education led her to her involvement in the prison system, and she has worked to connect incarcerated people with educational opportunities. Her governors office biography notes her belief that corrections must be an inclusive component of our education system, and by expanding opportunity, our state can dramatically reduce recidivism rates and most importantly, transform lives. Walz has worked to support the Bard Prison Initiative, a New York-based program that makes it possible for incarcerated people to earn associate and bachelors degrees, and she has aimed to bring elements of this model to Minnesota and nationwide. I think its a crucial conversation to have, Walz told Minnesotas MPR News in 2019. Im convinced that people are looking for ways to address all kinds of different issues within corrections and within criminal justice. She and Tim Walz share two children Tim and Gwen Walz share two children, Hope, 23, and Gus, 17. "My kids do not think I'm cool," Gwen Walz joked to the Minnesota Star Tribune back in 2019. Gwen and Tim Walz were joined by their children, Gus and Hope, during his gubernatorial campaign in August 2018 in St. Paul, Minnesota. Tim Walz has previously opened up about the couples journey with fertility treatments. In a March interview with the Minnesota Star Tribune, he said he and his wife went through seven years of fertility treatments at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, before welcoming their first child. I said, Not again, Walz said, recalling a time his wife called him crying. She said, No, Im pregnant. Its not by chance that we named our daughter Hope. In August, Gwen Walz clarified that she underwent intrauterine insemination (IUI). IUI boosts the chances of pregnancy by placing specially prepared sperm directly in the uterus, according to the Mayo Clinic. Like millions of families across the country, for years, Tim and I tried to start a family through fertility treatments. We followed the journey that is infertility the anxiety, the agony, and the desperation that can eat away at your soul, Gwen Walz said in a statement to NBC News. Knowing that pain, I cannot fathom the cruelty of politicians who want to take away the freedom for couples to access the care they need. After seeing the extreme attacks on reproductive health care across the country particularly, the efforts in Alabama that jeopardized access to fertility treatments Tim and I agreed that it was time to formally speak out about our experience. Our experience taught us that there is always hope and we hope other families find solace in our story. Since then, I have been greatly touched by the women who have shared their stories with me. She added that their fertility journey was an incredibly personal and difficult experience. Like so many who have experienced these challenges, we kept it largely to ourselves at the time not even sharing the details with our wonderful and close family, she continued, noting that the only person who knew in detail what we were going through was our next door neighbor. She was a nurse and helped me with the shots I needed as part of the IUI process. Id rush home from school and she would give me the shots to ensure we stayed on track. Many of our closest family and friends were surprised when we shared these experiences so many years later, she concluded. During his speech on day three of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Aug. 21, Tim Walz spoke about the struggles he and his wife faced to have a family. Calling the experience of infertility hell, Tim Walz recalled praying each night for a phone call, the pit in your stomach when the phone had rang, and the absolute agony when we heard the treatments hadnt worked. Adding, It took Gwen and I years, but we had access to fertility treatments. And when our daughter was born, we named her Hope. Hope, Gus and Gwen, you are my entire world. And I love you. Tim Walz's kids, Gus and Hope, getting emotional after his speech on the third day of the DNC on Aug. 21, 2024. He added, in part, as his family appeared emotional in the stands, Im letting you in on how we started a family, because this is a big part about what this election is about, freedom. She has supported Tim Walz at political events When he was elected governor in 2018, Tim Walz thanked his wife in a Facebook post, sharing a photo of him extending his hand to her from a podium. To my wife Gwen Minnesotas next first lady how can I ever thank you enough? Im grateful to you for keeping it all together for us and walking with me on this journey. I love you, he wrote in the caption. She appeared alongside her husband during his gubernatorial campaign. He was reelected governor in 2022. In an interview last year with Augsburg Now, Gwen Walz shared the story of how she supported her husband four days before his election, when they made campaign stops on a bus to thank people who had supported their campaign. "I didnt have a speaking role at these stops, but I wanted to convey my personal thanks and honor their time and hard work, she said. I rolled up my sleeves and called all my volleyball moms and friends over to the residence, and we baked 1,400 gingersnaps from my grandmothers recipe and packaged them with a note from me. Small gestures matter, and I love sharing a bit of myself with others. Gwen Walz also supported her husband at the DNC. During former President Barack Obamas speech on Aug. 20, she could be seen laughing hysterically as Obama joked about Tim Walzs Midwestern-coded wardrobe. You can tell those flannel shirts he wears dont come from some political consultant, they come from his closet and they have been through some stuff, Obama quipped. Youre right! Gwen Walz cheered from the audience. Later, Gwen Walz shared a photo of her husband seemingly sewing a button back onto one of his flannels. Its so true, @BarackObama. Tim loves his flannels, she captioned the post. This article was originally published on TODAY.com When Nick Mendoza was a kid, his aunt prepared homemade enchiladas and tamales every Christmas one of his favorite parts of the holiday season. Then, in 1985, he started dishing up his familys recipes himself at Lolos Mexican Restaurant in Morro Bay. During the past 39 years, Nick and his wife Becky added new recipes to the menu, raised their two sons in the restaurant and built lasting relationships with their customers and employees. But that all came to end Sunday, when after nearly four decades the Mendozas closed the beloved institution as they retired. Were just really grateful to have been able to have raised our kids here and live and work in such a nice place, Becky told The Tribune on Monday, the day after the restaurant closed for good. Lolos Mexican Restaurant will close on Sunday, Aug. 4, 2024. Lolos Mexican Restaurant served family recipes for 39 years Nicks Uncle Lolo and Aunt Esper opened the first Lolos Mexican Restaurant in Paso Robles in 1980. In 1985 just one year after Nick and Becky got married the family invited the newlyweds to open another Lolos in Morro Bay. The couple decided to take a risk and move to San Luis Obispo County from the Bay Area. Meanwhile, Nicks parents opened a Lolos in Salinas at about the same time. The menu was filled with family recipes, most of which were developed by Nicks Aunt Esper. When he was growing up, the same salsa served at the restaurant made a regular appearance at family barbecues and the family-made enchilada casserole and tamales would grace their tables every year for Christmas, he told The Tribune. Nick and Becky eventually added seafood dishes like fish tacos, shrimp and salmon to the menu as a nod to their coastal location. The couple also experimented with adding chile verde and chile colorado to pasta recipes that soon became customer favorites. At the same time, the Mendozas were raising their two sons in the restaurant. On Monday, Becky remembered plopping one of her sons in a high chair by the waitress station where hed eat rice and beans for lunch. There, hed smile at waitresses and customers as they walked by often wearing much of his lunch on his face, Becky said. He would sit there for an hour and a half, perfectly happy while I was running around working, she said. Later, their sons worked in the restaurant before leaving town for college. The Mendozas also had long-standing staff who felt like family, some who worked at Lolos for more than 20 years, Becky said. Thats part of the reason the Morro Bay location of Lolos Mexican Restaurant was the final one to close, she added. We wouldnt have been able to stick this out without our loyal employees, she said. Customers say goodbye: Were happy for you, were sad for us The week before the closure, community members packed the restaurant to enjoy one final meal and thank the Mendozas for decades of hospitality. We had so much business that we turned our phones off, Becky said. We couldnt take reservations, we couldnt take to-gos. There was so much cooking. On Saturday morning, customers lined up in the parking lot 30 minutes before the restaurant opened. Throughout the day, some customers even waited an hour and a half to be seated, Becky said. Meanwhile, Nick dashed to Spencers Fresh Market to stock up on enough supplies make it though the day. By Friday night, we were like, Oh my gosh, were not going to make it to Sunday were going to run out of food, Becky said. The Mendozas served generations of families during the past 39 years. Many Morro Bay residents were raised on Lolos dishes, and when they grew up, they brought their kids to enjoy the restaurant. Nick joked that once people had a taste of the family salsa recipe, theyd be hooked for life. Everyone would tell us how they remember having all their birthday celebrations, or they got engaged here, or they had their wedding party here, Becky said. Parting customers often told the Mendozas same thing: Were happy for you, were sad for us, Becky said. What do former Lolos owners plan to do during retirement? In light of the closure, Lolos fans asked the Mendozas to write a cookbook and Nick said hed consider the project. The challenge would be reducing recipes that make three to five gallons of food to more manageable portion sizes for home cooking, he said. The Mendozas plan to spend their retirement enjoying Morro Bay, traveling and spending more time with their grandchildren who live in another part of California. Visiting family will be easier without the pressures of running a restaurant, Becky said. Time is so fleeting, we didnt want to work until were decrepit, she said. The Mendozas assured their customers that theyll still be active in the community. Were going to be here well run into you at Spencers, Nick said. When we first moved here, I dont think we realized what a gem of a place Morro Bay is. Were so blessed with this community. 'I Almost Died of Liver Failure at Age 50This Is the First Sign I Wish I'd Paid Attention To' "Zero-proof drinks," "Dry January" and "Sober October" have become social media buzzwords in recent years. Unlike some social media trends out there, rethinking our relationship with alcohol could help curb another alarming trend: the rising toll of alcohol-related cirrhosis or liver scarring. Untreated over time, cirrhosis can lead to liver failure and death. One study from 2018 showed that deaths from alcohol-related cirrhosis consistently ticked up between 2009 and 2016. Then the pandemic hit, and research shows it made things worse, particularly in the first year (2020). One man knows that all too well, as he had to stop drinking that year after being diagnosed with alcohol-induced cirrhosis at the age of 50. "If I didn't stop, I wouldn't be able to get onto the [transplant] list, be able to see a new donor or even just even live," said Kenneth Ferrucci, now 54, who lives in West Hartford, Connecticut. Ferrucci is not alone. Around 98,000 people ages 12 and older died from liver disease in 2022, and alcohol was involved in 46% of those cases. Ferrucci did live, and now he's telling his story, including sharing the symptoms he wishes he'd flagged ASAP. Related: 6 Major Things That Happen to Your Body if You Stop Drinking Alcohol The No. 1 Red Flag Ferrucci Wishes He Noticed Before Almost Dying of Liver Failure Ferrucci wished he noticed how tired and worn out he looked. "I looked horrible," he shares. "I had been doing Zoom calls and interviews...When I see myself and how I looked, I was like, 'Oh my God. That was only a couple of months before I was in the emergency room.'" Ferrucci also remembers feeling lightheaded and bloated. "What I didn't realize was I was getting my sodium level dangerously low," Ferrucci explains. Sodium is an essential electrolyte; the liver helps the body maintain appropriate levels. Research from 2023 points to data that abnormally low sodium levels in advanced liver cirrhosis are linked with poor outcomes. One reason Ferrucci didn't know his sodium levels were low was that he had been avoiding blood tests. However, when his primary care doctor retired, his new one insisted he get one. The physician also required an ultrasound of his abdomen. "I went and got both," Ferrucci says. "She called me on a Friday and said, 'You need to go to the emergency room. When can you go? Can you go today?'" Ferrucci told her he had to work. "I was actually drinking that day," he admits. "I went Saturday morning, and that's when they admitted me." Related: This Is the #1 Most Important Habit for Liver Health, According to a Hepatologist A Long Road to Recovery Ferrucci's hospital admission was the first of many he'd have over the next four years as doctors worked to get his liver disease under control. In July of 2020, he spent a week there as they drained fluids, a common theme in his journey to recovery. "I ended up having several hundred gallons of fluids drained over the next two years," he says. During weekly paracentesis treatments (abdominal taps to remove fluids), Ferrucci had anywhere from three to eight liters of fluid drained. At times, Ferrucci's sodium levels were so low that he collapsed from weakness. He developed restless leg syndrome that was so bad it made it nearly impossible to sleep. He broke his hip and developed avascular necrosis, which occurs when bone tissues die as a result of blood flow loss. "What I didn't realize at that time was how much hell I was going to go through," Ferrucci shares. One thing he did know? "I knew I was going to need a new liver," Ferrucci says. "When they told me that, I wasn't surprised." Finding a Match Ferrucci credits the doctors at Hartford Hospital for keeping him alive, even during his lowest points, physically and mentally. During a stay in a skilled nursing facility for avascular necrosis, Ferrucci decided he was going to fight. "I was going to do whatever I could to beat this," Ferrucci explains. That involved working with Yale Medicine to find a living donor, a process that began in the summer of 2022. That fall, he was listed. Ferrucci began working with Yale in the summer of 2022. He posted his story on the Yale donor app and social media, and he created cards and posters to publicize his need for a new liver. On Memorial Day Weekend of 2023, he got a call from Yale Medicine that they had found a potential match. The donor committee, including surgeons and hepatologists, had to approve it. They did. On January 30, Ferrucci received a new liver with Yale organ transplant physicians Doctors Sidharth Sharma, MD, and David Mulligan, MD, serving as the surgeons. Ferrucci says he was out of intensive care "fairly quickly" and home a week after his surgery. However, his bile ducts (which carry bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine) had a leak, so he had to go back to the hospital for treatment that included having stents inserted. He also developed a pseudomonas infection, which prompted his team to remove the stents just in case. Related: 'I Almost Died of a Heart Attack at 48This Is the First Symptom I Wish I'd Paid Attention To' 'Full Throttle' Ahead Despite some initial hurdles, Ferrucci is alive and healthy today. "I have to tell you, I feel great," he says. "I feel like I'm going full throttle now, just moving forward, which is really good." Ferrucci recently flew to Chicago to see friends for the first time since 2020, the year he was diagnosed. And his new liver is holding up just fine. "The way the liver regeneratesit's basically my liver," Ferrucci explains. "I had the right lobe of somebody's liver, and that has now regenerated into a fully functioning liver inside me." Ferrucci intends to treat his liverand body and mindright this time around. He hasn't had a craving for alcohol since his diagnosis, however, he's still doing the just in case which includes maintaining a relationship with the addiction treatment center The Rushford Center and finding community. "Although I dont have cravings or any desires, I find it positive to be in some groups occasionally," Ferrucci says. "I choose between a 'smart recovery' group and a mindfulness session, which includes mediation and sound therapy." Next up: 'I'm a 99-Year-Old Professional Poker PlayerHere's Exactly What I Do to Keep My Mind Sharp' Sources Mortality due to cirrhosis and liver cancer in the United States, 1999-2016: observational study. BMJ. Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease Mortality Increased From 2017 to 2020 and Accelerated During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. Alcohol and the Human Body. NIAA. Kenneth Ferrucci of Connecticut, a man who received a liver transplant Evidence-based hyponatremia management in liver disease. Clinical and Molecular Hepatology. Back-to-school student registration open, what we know The start of school is coming fast, and it's time to fill out annual registration forms for your student. Here is all you need to know to register your student for the upcoming school year at Abilene ISD and Wylie ISD. Abilene ISD Parents or guardians of returning students can fill out an annual registration now. The district requests registration to be completed before school starts, but registration will remain open after Aug. 14. Mann Middle School Principal Chad Drake welcomes his students as they begin the first day of the school year Aug. 16, 2023. Registration for returning students can be completed through the Frontline parent account. New students to Abilene ISD can access enrollment and transfer requests through the Newcomers page on the district website. If trying to enroll a new student with no student currently enrolled on any campus in the district, the parent or guardian must create an account in Frontline. To enroll a student in school, the following records or documentation for the student must be provided: Birth certificate Social Security number Immunization records Parent/guardian ID Proof of residence by water or energy bills or a lease or mortgage document AISD provides new student enrollment help guides in English and Spanish. For additional assistance, email or call the Parent Frontline Support Hotline at 325-794-3810. Be ready to provide your name, contact information and a detailed description of your issue. Wylie ISD Enrollment and registration for back to school at Wylie ISD must be completed online. Returning students are required every year to complete the Returning Student Online Update in Skyward Family Access. All forms are completed online through this process. New student enrollment for children in grades prekindergarten-12th must be completed online for the 2024-2025 school year. Any questions pertaining to enrollment can be sent by email to onlineenroll@wyliebulldogs.org. If you already have students enrolled at Wylie ISD and need to enroll a new student, open Family Access and click on "New Student Enrollment." Required documentation needed for new student enrollment includes: Proof of residency in the Wylie district. Must provide a current gas, water or electric bill or builder's contract. Shot record Social Security card of the student Birth certificate Parent/guardian driver's license Previous school records if applicable and available Proof of income-Only for those qualifying for pre-K as educationally disadvantaged Families walk their students up the driveway to Wylie East Elementary School for the first day of class Aug. 18, 2021. Pre-K is a qualifying program at Wylie ISD. To be eligible to attend pre-K the child must meet these program requirements: Must be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1 and meet one of the requirements below: Is unable to speak and comprehend the English language; Is educationally disadvantaged, which means they are eligible to participate in the National Free and Reduced Lunch Program; Is homeless, as defined by 42 U.S.C. Section 1143a, regardless of the residence of the child, of either parent of the child, or of the childs guardian or other person having lawful control of the child; or Is the child of an active duty member of the armed forces of the U.S., including the state military forces or a reserve component of the armed forces, who is ordered to active duty by proper authority; or Is the child of a former member of the armed forces of the U.S., including the state military forces or a reserve component of the armed forces, who was injured or killed while serving on active duty; or Is or has been in the conservatorship of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services following an adversary hearing held as provided by Section 262.201, Family Code. If eligible to participate in the National Free and Reduced Lunch Program, proof of income documentation must be provided during the enrollment process. More: Here's a list of back-to-school start dates for Abilene area school districts More: What to know for back-to-school: Taylor County school lists, stores to shop This article originally appeared on Abilene Reporter-News: Back-to-school student registration open, what we know VIENTIANE, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Laos' imports and exports amounted to 1.227 billion U.S. dollars in June, according to the latest figures from the Lao Trade Portal website. The value of exports in June was recorded at 547 million dollars and imports at 680 million dollars, resulting in a trade deficit of about 133 million dollars, the data showed. Laos' main export products included salt, mixed gold, paper, rubber, copper ore, wasted wood, sugar, cassava flour, banana and cassava. The country's main imports included diesel, land vehicles, mechanical equipment, electrical appliances and equipment, steel and steel products, finished chemical products, plastic products, gasoline, vehicle spare parts and aluminum products. China, Vietnam and Thailand are among leading export destinations for Lao products. Meanwhile, main importing countries of Lao products include China, Thailand and Vietnam. It's no surprise that Asheville, also known as "Beer City," receives attention for its brewing scene across the nation. Food site Tasting Table became one of the latest to acknowledge the city as a beer mecca, naming Asheville the No. 1 city for beer lovers. Launched in 2008, Tasting Table is "dedicated to serving the modern food and drink enthusiast through content that is informative, useful, and engaging." The website posts dining advice, recipes, food news and more. The website's analysis of "15 Best US Cities for Beer Lovers in 2024" came ahead of International Beer Day last week. The study aimed to celebrate America's craft beer culture through an exploration of cities. "It used to be that beer lovers would visit top European beer destinations if they wanted to experience true craft brews," Tasting Table said. "But at this point, Europeans are looking at what American brewers are doing and taking inspiration." Writers selected destinations based on scores yielded through four metrics including breweries per capita, bars per capita, beer-tasting tours offered and the average cost of a beer. Here's what they found. More: U.S. wine tours ranked with Asheville company among best, vote for best gluten-free dining Best breweries in Asheville 12 Bones Brewing Brewmaster Scott Hetig in 2019. Asheville is the No. 1 city on Tasting Table's list. With more breweries per capita than any other city in the country and the highest overall score on the list "by a long shot," the city naturally received plenty of brewery name-drops. First, writers mentioned that several big brands operate in the Asheville area including Anheuser-Busch. As for independent breweries, Tasting Table cited: Highland Brewing Burial Beer Co. Dssolvr The Whale Foggy Mountain Brewpub Jackson County Ale Trail More: Does Asheville need an Ice Cream Trail? Here's our 'unofficial' guide to summer sweetness Best cities for beer lovers 2024 Taps at an Asheville brewery. Tasting Table's best places for brew enthusiasts: Asheville, North Carolina Pensacola, Florida Las Vegas, Nevada Portland, Maine Greenville, South Carolina Lancaster, Pennsylvania Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Cincinnati, Ohio New Orleans, Louisiana Portland, Oregon Denver, Colorado Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Rochester, New York St. Louis, Missouri Austin, Texas More: Cuban coffee shop opening set for West Asheville with late-night hours Beer road tripping Tasting Table didn't just compile cities across the nation deemed best for beer; the analysis also included writers' ideas for planning a road trip full of the best overnight stops for grabbing a few craft brews. If you're looking for a shorter trip, Pennsylvania was Tasting Table's choice. With two cities in Tasting Table's top 10, a third city in a supplementary list of runners-up and only a few hours between each city, you could turn your beer-themed getaway into a weekend trip. If you have a little more time, drive another few hours from Pennsylvania to Ohio to visit Cincinnati, Dayton or Cleveland, all within Tasting Table's top 25 destinations. As for something slightly more adventurous, Tasting Table suggests a trip beginning in Cincinnati and extending into Portland, Maine, over a few days. In the other direction, consider some combination of Asheville, Louisville, Kentucky; Richmond, Virginia; and Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee. More: Asheville bar named among top in U.S. Here's what to expect and order when you go Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at iseaton@citizentimes.com. This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Best US cities for beer lovers: Asheville earns high marks Boat outing at Lake Monroe gives veterans, children with special needs day on the water For some people, spending a day on the water at Lake Monroe seems like an impossible dream. On Aug. 17 and 18, those impossible dreams will come true for veterans and children with special needs during the Freedom Waters Foundation boat outings. Debra Frenkel, founder and executive director of Freedom Waters Foundation, said her favorite part of boat outings is seeing the happiness and freedom that the events create. Boaters enjoy a nice day on Lake Monroe on Saturday, April 25, 2020. (Rich Janzaruk / Herald-Times) Parents with kids in electric wheelchairs think that they'll never be able to take their child boating, but here they get to go boating and have a great time while seeing their child smiling and laughing, Frenkel said. I cant tell you how many times a veteran has said to me, This is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me since I came back. Aug. 17 is for veterans and their families and Aug. 18 is for children with special needs and their families. This will be the third year Freedom Waters Foundation has hosted boat outings on Lake Monroe. Freedom Waters Foundation is a nonprofit organization that does therapeutic boating for people with disabilities, life threatening illnesses, youth at risk and veterans. Although the organization is based in Florida, it comes to different states including Georgia and Indiana once a year to host events. According to Frenkel, the event is held at Fourwinds Lakeside Inn and Marina because the owner, Doug Trainer, was on her board of directors and offered his marina. Frenkel said there is room for more veterans for the event on Saturday while there are over 300 people signed up for Sunday so more boats are needed to get everyone out on the water. Local boat owners who can donate their time and the use of their boat can sign up on Freedom Waters Foundations website. Even if someone does not have a boat, Frenkel said sponsorships or even just donating time is extremely helpful. We dont own any boats, so we recruit commercial and private boats to take the people out and we do all the matching the day of, Frenkel said. We do a two-hour boat trip, and then we come back at noon and have a barbecue lunch and live music. This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: Freedom Waters Foundation event this month at Fourwinds marina For Hindu American youth puzzled by their faith, the Hindu Grandma is here to help. She is wrapped in a traditional sari as she speaks, a kindly twinkle in her eye even as she seems to chide in an Instagram video posted in March. Kids often tell me they have no time for puja, The Hindu Grandma says with a scolding finger, referencing a common Hindu prayer ritual. They seem to have time for Instagram TikTok .... But puja? Eh. But the petite, kindly woman whose real name is Ranjani Saigal has a solution. Today, she tells her viewers, shell demonstrate a brief version of the prayer, one that can fit into anybodys schedule. Six months ago, the 63-year-old former computer scientist had barely dipped her toes into the waters of social media. Now, as The Hindu Grandma, she has earned thousands of followers on Instagram and TikTok, sharing her knowledge of Hindu traditions and verses with Hindu young people and adults around the globe. She personifies how social media has permeated so many facets of daily life from idle chitchat to religious teachings that, in some cases, simply aren't available anywhere else for the vast majority of people. Its for them to understand the meaning of why we do something, so its not just hocus-pocus, she said. Hindu traditions are so beautiful. Its about celebrating and connecting with nature. Ranjani Saigal, 63, a former computer scientist in the Boston area, has earned a social media following as The Hindu Grandma. As her alter ego, she aims to share knowledge of Hindu faith practices with Hindu youth growing up in the U.S., where Hindus form just 1 percent of the population and parents often struggle to explain such traditions. Saigal hopes her daily videos, aimed at Hindu young people growing up in the U.S., give Hindu American parents another way to face the challenges of instilling faith traditions in their children in a country where Hindus represent barely 1% of the population and misconceptions about the faith remain. Her homey, upbeat videos range from explanations of Hindu stories and hymns or the meaning of the term namaste to details about her own journey. One of her most popular videos details the Hindu significance of lighting a lamp. An estimated 2 million to 3 million Hindus live in the U.S, according to Pew Research Center estimates; most of them are immigrants, largely South Asians from India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal. They are also young: More than a third of American Hindus are under 30, according to a 2017 study by the Public Religion Research Institute. Saigal originally came to the U.S. to attend grad school after earning an undergraduate engineering degree in India. Her career as a civil engineer and then computer scientist took her to Boston, where shes now executive director of the U.S. arm of Ekal Vidyalaya, an organization that runs schools in remote areas of India and Nepal. As a trained Hindu chaplain and instructor of South Indian classical dance, Saigal enjoyed sharing the underpinnings of her faith and culture with her American-born daughter, Amrita. Amrita Saigal and her husband ultimately hoped to pass on such knowledge to Saigals granddaughter, whose first birthday had already inspired Saigal to help write a childrens book, My First Om. Eventually, Saigal said, Amrita urged her to share her knowledge with the world through mediums like TikTok and Instagram. Her daughter walked her through how the platforms worked and told Saigal she needed to come up with a handle. Saigal, perplexed, was as yet unconvinced. I said, I dont know who would care about a Hindu grandma, she said. My daughter said, Thats your handle. At first, Saigal hoped for a few hundred followers. Her Instagram following now totals 146,000, and she has 17,000 more on TikTok. Shes always had a bubbly personality and knows so much about the traditions, said Suhag Shukla, executive director of the Hindu American Foundation, a national organization based in Washington, D.C. I love that shes sharing her wisdom beyond her family. Shes having an impact. Stories of justice and action across America. Sign up for USA TODAY's This is America newsletter. Struggling to instill Hindu faith traditions in American-born children For Hindu American parents no longer immersed in Hindu societies, Ranjanis presence as The Hindu Grandma demonstrates how social media has broadened the ways in which they can keep their faith traditions alive in their American-born children. When youre a Hindu growing up in India or anyplace where youre surrounded by Hindus, teachings and culture are passed on almost by osmosis, said Shukla, of the Hindu American Foundation. Youre never questioned about why you do things. Youre surrounded by people who share the same worldviews and practices. People hold fireworks as they celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, in Jersey City, New Jersey, in November 2023. (Photo by YUKI IWAMURA/AFP via Getty Images) That dynamic changes in the U.S., where parents are challenged to explain rituals and beliefs in a world dominated by Judeo-Christian worldviews and tested by lingering misconceptions and stereotypes. I cant even begin to tell you how much I got teased about eating monkey brains, Shukla said, referencing a scene from the 1984 film Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. Though Shukla, who grew up in Northern California, recalls celebrating Diwali and other traditional festivals as a child at relatives homes or community centers, we knew what we were doing but not why we were doing it and our parents were not equipped with answers. Her experience growing up in the 1970s was not uncommon. Consequently, programs similar to Christian Sunday schools sprung up at Hindu temples and community centers throughout the U.S.; so too did a handful of Hindu summer camps. For young people straddling two cultures and looking for relevance in Hindu teachings, Shukla said, those efforts have been extremely powerful in making sure you have second- and third-generation Hindu Americans. Shuklas Hindu American Foundation, too, works to change misconceptions and to correct or supplement public schools often limited, Western views of Hinduism through textbook reform efforts or teacher trainings. It also produces materials that can help parents navigate difficult issues with their children from a Hindu perspective or that illustrate the influence of Hindu teachings on classic writers and artists such as Walt Whitman, Ralph Waldo Emerson and The Beatles. For a lot of young Hindu children, when youre 1% of the population, you can internalize the idea of not being part of the fabric of the country, Shukla said. NEW YORK, NEW YORK: Then-New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio (C) visited the Holi celebration at The Brooklyn Children's Museum in April 2021 in New York's Brooklyn borough. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images) Another effort, near Houston, is the Texas Hindu Campsite, which offers young people a grounding in their Hindu heritage supplemented by outdoor activities to help them maintain their Hindu identity. The forces of assimilation are so strong, and unfortunately our Hindu American parents are fairly ignorant of their own culture and religion, said camp founder Subhash Gupta. They know some things, but they cannot explain to their children why they do these things or their importance. Children always question, and unless those curious minds are answered, it will not pass down. The profile of Hindus has been rising in the U.S., most recently with Usha Vance, whose husband, JD Vance, was chosen as Republican presidential candidate Donald Trumps running mate. Additionally, many practices that have gained footholds in the U.S. are rooted in Hinduism, Saigal said, including yoga, meditation and veganism. Shes touched by how many people around the world have reached out to her, who now call her Nani, Dadi, Amma and other cultural terms of endearment used for grandmother. I am so grateful to God for making me an instrument in a unique way and grateful to my own mother for her teachings and blessings, she said in a Hindu Grandma video posted on Mothers Day. With many relocated Hindus having started new families in the U.S with their grandmothers left behind in their homelands, Saigal hopes she helps fill a void and has a role in keeping Hindu faith traditions alive. It touches me so much when people say I can see my grandma in you. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: In 'Hindu Grandma,' Hindu Americans have an ally on social media Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. It stood up to 90-degree heat. NativeSPA Keeping my skin moisturized is always a priority during hot summer months, but its especially top of mind when Im visiting my parents in Colorados typically dry climate. On a recent trip home to celebrate my sisters wedding, not only did I want my face to look glowy, but ensuring my arms, legs, and shoulders were firm and hydrated was more important than ever. Thats why I was excited to test out Nativa Spas Madagascar Vanilla Soothing Body Oil, which promised lasting results. Im a huge fan of turning to body oil for a deeper layer of hydration, and while I have tried and loved a few formulas in the past, this version stood out for a few key reasons. Nativa Spa Madagascar Vanilla Soothing Body Oil Nativa Spa $26 at shopnativaspa.com To start, I love the smell of this body oil. The subtle vanilla is noticeable but not overpowering, which is the ideal balance I look for in a fragrance. I like that the formula isnt too sticky or greasy (an issue Ive found in some oils) but rather applied smoothly and evenly. Its dispensing system is also better than the body oils Ive tried in the past. Ive used ones that come in pumps, squeeze bottles, and with spray nozzles, and each time I've been disappointed with how they dispense either too much or too little product. This bottle has one small hole at the opening that shakes out just the right amount each time. As for benefits, the oils formula is packed with antioxidant-rich Madagascar vanilla and pure quinoa oil, which blends to add firmness and moisture to your skin. You can either apply the oil to your skin during or after a shower or bath, and you can opt to leave it on your skin or rinse it off. For added benefits, it can also be applied to any body lotion for added hydration. On the day of my sisters wedding, I applied the oil directly to my skin to get immediate and lasting results. Not only did it give my skin the hydration I desperately needed during a hot, 90-degree day, but it also offered a beautiful glow that made me feel extra confident in pictures. Shoppers are loving this product, too. One customer said that it left their skin soft and moisturized without being greasy, and another shopper added that it makes [their] skin smooth and silky with a nice glow. A third customer mentioned that theyve gotten so many compliments since using the product, adding that its a sweet and calming fragrance oil. Try the vanilla body oil for yourself for $26, and keep scrolling to shop more products from Nativa Spa to accompany the body oil. Ginseng & Caffeine Toning Body Oil Nativa Spa $26 at shopnativaspa.com Madagascar Vanilla Soothing Body Scrub Nativa Spa $26 at shopnativaspa.com Quinoa Firming Body Oil Nativa Spa $26 at shopnativaspa.com For more InStyle news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on InStyle. Japan has killed its first fin whale in years, despite most of the world strongly opposing the decision. Photo: Wikimedia Commons Japan just announced that it killed its first fin whale in years. The whale, which was 64 feet long and weighed 55 tons, was caught off Iwate Prefecture by a whaling company called Kyodo Senpaku. Japan is one of very few countries that ignore international rules surrounding the hunting of whales. Fin whales, which are the second-largest animal on Earth the blue whale is the largest are considered by International Union for Conservation of Nature to be vulnerable to extinction. The announcement comes just a few weeks after Captain Paul Watson was arrested in Greenland on an international warrant issued by Japanese officials. Watson believes that his arrest was related to Japans intent to restart whaling outside of Japanese waters with the help of a new vessel called the The Kangei Maru, which serves as an on-water processing plant for other smaller whaling ships. Although Japan has operated in violation of the ICJ [International Court of Justice] ruling for several years, they ceased Antarctic high-seas whaling in 2016 and now only hunt whales within their territorial waters, The Captain Paul Watson Foundation (CPWF) said in a press release at the time of Watsons arrest. CPWF suspects that Japan intends to resume high-seas whaling in the Southern Ocean and North Pacific by 2025, and believes the reactivation of the Red Notice against Captain Watson is politically motivated, coinciding with the launch of the new factory ship. In May, 2024, fin whales were added to the list of of species that can be caught in Japan. The countrys Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries announced that they would allow the hunting of 59 fin whales, along with its existing quotas for minke whales, Brydes whales, and sei whales, IFLScience explained. Japan defended its decision to add fin whales to the list by saying that their numbers have rebounded in the North Pacific to the point where they can be sustainably hunted. Tha statement, however, has been largely panned by most experts. The fin whale is the second largest animal on earth. Putting it in the gunsights in 2024 is a big mistake for Japan, for whales, and for the international community working to protect them. We call on Japan immediately to withdraw this indefensible decision, Catherine Bell, Director of International Policy at the International Fund for Animal Welfare, said in a statement sent to IFLScience. There is no humane way to kill a whale at sea and we have profound concerns about the welfare implications of this proposed hunt. Japanese whalers have not killed fin whales since 2011 and current harpoon operators may have no experience in killing a species that is significantly bigger longer and heavier than the largest species they currently hunt. Harpoons are usually not effective at killing whales on impact, leading to a slow and painful death. A few years ago, Japan withdrew from the International Whaling Commission (IWC), a worldwide panel that seeks to regulate the whaling industry. Eighty-eight countries are members, but Iceland, Norway, and Japan are not and still actively hunt whales. Japan was a member until 2019, when it withdrew and quickly resumed hunting whales. The post Japan Kills First Fin Whale Despite International Condemnation first appeared on The Inertia. Here's what's new in Columbus' food scene this week, including openings, expanded spaces, and the return of a favorite item to a Short North mainstay. Sweetgreen to open first Ohio restaurant in Short North Sweetgreen's offerings include a miso glazed salmon protein plate. Sweetgreen, a salad bar chain founded in Washington, D.C., in 2007, will open its first Columbus location at 700 N. High St. in September. Featuring a menu sourcing regional ingredients, the business also plans to partner with Midwestern bakeries for its breads. "Weve been blown away by the excitement and welcome the community has already extended to us, and we cant wait to give Columbus a taste of Sweetgreen," CEO Jonathan Neman said in a release. More information on opening plans is available here. Local coffee shops announce storefronts Two mobile coffee shops recently shared exciting news. Mission Coffee, which shut down during Covid, reopened on Monday at 11 Price Ave. in the Short North. The shop's Instagram account noted it was in a soft opening phase, and the hours and items available may vary in the coming days, but that the business is thrilled to be hosting patrons once again. Meanwhile, Honey Cup Coffee has moved into a permanent space at 2489 Summit St. after starting out as a mobile shop in the same SoHud neighborhood. The owners teased "big plans" for their new space in the Instagram post announcing the move. So far, those plans include hosting a music show on Aug. 17. Columbus' first Kurdish restaurant plans grand opening Silav Cafe & Grill, a new Kurdish restaurant that quietly opened at 330 S. High St. in June, announced it will hold its grand opening on August 11. Currently serving guests from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, the menu features traditional American and Middle Eastern breakfast and lunch entrees, as well as Kurdish dishes like jajik, a cucumber and yogurt dip, and xanam fetah, which combines yogurt, garbanzo beans and toasted nuts. Northstar Cafe brings back beloved menu item Northstar Cafe is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its original Short North location by bringing back a popular discontinued menu item: the Sweet Basil Burrito. The dish, which is served with sweet potato fries, is available for a limited time in the Short North. This article originally appeared on Columbus Monthly: Sweetgreen and Silav openings, coffee shops, Northstar's basil burrito If youre crossing the pond this summer and visiting locales like England and Ireland, visiting Scotland should feel like a no-brainer, too. The U.K. country is full of beautiful scenery, rich history, and plenty of activities, including the internationally acclaimed annual Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which brings hundreds of live performances to the country every summer. But if youve caught the bug thats just a little more intense than the travel bug the, Could I live here bug? you may be wanting to know how to make that visit to Scotland a little more permanent. Maybe youve gone on a trip or two to Scotland and cant stop thinking about haggis and Highland castles, or maybe youve just always wanted to know what its like to live there. If this sounds like you, youre not the only one, as Scotlands net migration rate (aka the amount of people who moved there compared to the amount of people who left) more than doubled from 2021 to 2022. From paperwork to payments and more, heres what you need to know about moving to Scotland, if leaving your home for greener pastures is on your mind. Can U.S. citizens move to Scotland? If youre interested in really getting to know the country before making the big relocation decision, youll be glad to know that Americans can remain in Scotland for six whole months without a visa. However, if you want to make your stay more permanent, theres a lot of paperwork and fees to deal with, and waiting for your visa to be processed and approved can actually take up to six months as well. Patience is key! Because Scotland is part of the United Kingdom, those who wish to live there (including American citizens) will have to apply for a U.K. visa, which is unique in that it provides the ability to live and work in not just Scotland, but also England and Northern Ireland. Understanding the U.K. Visa System There are many types of U.K. visas one can apply for. For an American, youd most likely be looking at student visas, visas for people joining family members or spouses, and visas for people intending to work in the U.K. The work visa is quite a broad category. If youre an award-winning high achiever or entrepreneur in your industry, you may be able to get the Global Talent visa or Innovator Founder visa. If you graduated from specific well-regarded universities in the last five years, you may qualify for the High Potential Individual visa. If you work for an international company and are being transferred to its U.K. branch, theres a work visa for that as well. Others may qualify for the Skilled Worker visa, which requires sponsorship from an eligible U.K. employer. Figuring out which visa type is best for you can feel overwhelming, but the U.K. government has a fairly comprehensive website meant to show prospective expats what options they have (and crucially, how much each visa route will cost and what paperwork youll need). Most visa types last five years, although they can typically be renewed. Plus, after five years in the country, youll be eligible to apply for permanent settlement in the U.K., which then provides a path to U.K. citizenship. How much money do you need to immigrate to Scotland? Scotland has its own unique paper currency, but it still uses the pound, just like England. And while U.K. cities like London may be pricey compared to America, Scotland tends to be a bit more affordable in fact, per the Cost of Living Index for 2024, rent (even in big cities like Glasgow) can be as much as 70% cheaper than New York City. But fees related to the visa application process can be quite steep. Most types of work visas tend to be in the 1,000- to 1,400-pound range, while family visas can be anywhere from 1,800 to 3,250 pounds. Youll also need to prove you have the finances to consistently support yourself once you arrive. In addition to visa application fees, youll also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge every year in order to get access to healthcare through the NHS. This fee varies based on visa type, but generally ranges from 1,000 to 3,000 pounds. Youll also want to set aside funds to cover airfare, housing, bills, and groceries, plus shipping costs for any large items youre bringing with you from the States. When it comes to finding a place to live, Amanda Walkins, a travel blogger who has lived in Scotland, recommends finding a temporary residence at first so youre able to tour an apartment or house in person instead of gambling on securing housing while still in the US. Do I need to have a job to move to Scotland? While you technically arent required to have a job to move to Scotland, it does help especially because there are so many types of U.K. work visas out there. Some, like the Global Talent visa and the High Potential Individual visa, dont require you to have a job offer already, but those tend to be more difficult to qualify for. Those without jobs can potentially qualify for other visa types, but dont expect it to be a walk in the park yes, even if you have family in the country or have plans to marry a Scot. Nicole Nadler, a U.S. expat in Scotland and contributor to the blog Everything Edinburgh, married her Scottish husband a year after meeting him, partially so they could live in Scotland together. [Marriage] was the only feasible way to live in the same country for us, neither of us wanted to go back to University, neither of us qualified for a work visa, and neither of us had any special circumstances, she writes, adding that moving to Scotland from the U.S. was and still is a humongous undertaking that is very expensive, time-consuming, and ultimately very stressful. However, for her it was worth it and it very well might be for you too. Further Reading My Toilet Had Brown Stains I Couldnt Get Rid Of Then I Found This Amazing Trick I Just Discovered the Smartest Way to Store Paper Towels in Your Kitchen (Its a Game-Changer!) We Asked 5 Contractors Which Kitchen Reno Trend Homeowners Regret Most, and They Basically All Agreed Sign up for Apartment Therapy's Daily email newsletter to receive our favorite posts, tours, products, and shopping guides in your inbox. They moved from the US to Italy to save their marriage. Heres how that worked out Buying and renovating a home in a different country is a decision that would put any relationship to the test. But this couple, previously based in San Jose, California, snapped up a dilapidated house in a picturesque Italian town with the hope of saving their marriage. Christina and Pete Sobolev, both in their 60s, bought a ruin in the hilltop village of Santa Domenica Talao, near Scalea in Calabria, a southern Italian region filled with depopulated towns, in 2011 after seeing an online advertisement. Now the couple, whove been married for 35 years, are working together to help revive dying Italian villages by bringing in new residents who want to live La Dolce Vita. Marriage lifeline? Christina Sobolev, pictured, and her husband Pete bought and renovated a home in Santa Domenica Talao, Italy back in 2009. Now they're working together to help others do the same. - Chris Sobolev A little over 15 years ago, Pete and I made the decision to purchase a property in Italy, Christina Sobolev tells CNN. Our lives in California were great but as I talked to friends who were at the same point in life, their kids were grown and starting out on their own, I noticed a disturbing pattern. Many of these couples were getting divorced. Christina Sobolev felt that she and her husband needed a shared goal to keep us united and excited by life. It was then that the plan formed to purchase a home in another country with another language, another culture and a completely different look at life, she adds. They then moved to Santa Domenica Talao, a village theyd first visited in 2009, and spent three to four years renovating the two-bedroom home. In 2015, the couple set up their own business, Super Savvy Travelers, which began as a travel agency, and eventually developed into a service offering packages for those wanting to purchase property in the area. The Sobolevs, who had already been spending much of the year in Italy, opted to make Calabria their permanent base in 2021. They say that the Covid-19 pandemic was a big factor in their decision. Christina Sobolev, who previously worked as a music teacher, had been selling cruises shortly before the global outbreak of coronavirus in early 2020. Although selling cruises was fun, it was not a huge life goal for me. When the pandemic hit, that whole industry shut down for years, she says, explaining that she and her husband both had real estate licenses while in California, and were experienced with buying and renovating houses. At that point I had to pivot and after looking at our interests and where our skills lie, getting involved in Italian properties was a natural fit. She and her husband now work together, buying abandoned dwellings in nearby villages, restyling them, and either renting or selling them to expats, mostly Americans, whove chosen to settle in Calabria. Passion project The couple are helping to revive some of the depopulated towns in Calabria, Italy. - Chris Sobolev Over the years, theyve developed a strong network of estate agents, relocation experts, translators, architects, engineers and builders in the area. The Sobolevs have handled the sale of apartments and homes throughout Scalea and across the pristine Riviera dei Cedri area, but Santa Domenica Talao, which has an estimated population of around 1,200, is their biggest success story so far. Working with experts to help provide really everything anyone needs to parachute in and take on a renovation of an abandoned house, theyve facilitated the sale and renovation of approximately 35 homes in the village, creating a large expat community. Santa Domenica was initially a town with many abandoned houses falling into disrepair. It now has a vibrant expat community that has been warmly welcomed into the arms and hearts of the locals creating a beautiful experience and salvaging a stunning hill town. Although the prices of old homes in the area have increased over the past few years, there are currently ruins on sale for as little as 10,000 euros (about $10,928) to 15,000 euros (around $16,392) while turnkey two-bedroom and a bathroom start at about 50,000 euros ($54,641.) Once we had Santa Domenica Talao up and rolling, real estate agents in the area contacted us and wanted to work with us. That is how we have expanded into the entire Riviera dei Cedri, Puglia and now Tuscany, says Christina. In March, the Sobolevs opened their first boutique hotel, Casa Cristina, a former village school, which theyve extensively renovated. They paid 75,000 euros (about $8,1961) for the 200-square-meter B&B, while the renovation work, which included high end finishes, en-suite bathrooms and state of the art heating and cooling, came to roughly 140,000 euros (around $152,995.) According to the couple, the infamous Italian bureaucracy has been one of the main obstacles they faced during their projects. But theyve found that if you have the right professionals who know how to navigate the challenges and who are honest, ethical and get it done right the first time, things go pretty smoothly, says Christina Sobolev. Theyve also run into the issue of unclear titles when it comes to property ownership for a number of properties. There are situations here that we would never see in the US, including deeds consisting of squatters rights. Deeds that are simply a letter from an aunt giving title to a nephew. Word of mouth deeds which mean nothing and then a whole host of other issues such as unpermitted work and unethical and illegal real estate agents. It has been a real gamut of issues, says Christina. Thriving community The area currently has ruins on sale for 10,000 euros (about $10,928) to around 15,000 euros. - Chris Sobolev Aside from building a successful business, the Sobolevs say they are thrilled to have helped to create a thriving Italian-American community in southern Calabria. They are also involved in organizing and funding village festivals, cooking classes, local tours and food tasting. According to Christina, most of those whove chosen to purchase in the area are approaching retirement and want to either live here full time or be here at least six months of the year. She explains that, as her husband, who is half Latvian and half Czech, has Latvian citizenship, the visa process has been more straightforward for him as both Italy and Latvia are in the European Union. For me, it is a lot more complicated. I have to get to whats called an immigrant card and theres all kinds of documentation and apostilles and all that stuff I have to get and provide, adds Christina. Toward the end of last year, the couple expanded the business model that was so successful in Santa Domenica Talao, applying it to some of the nearby villages with dwindling populations. Despite their exquisite beauty, these places are starting to become abandoned because the young people have to find work elsewhere. It is our goal to create enough opportunity in each of these villages to allow the kids to stay close to their families and find work, says Christina. The couple also hope to revitalize nearby towns Aieta, Papasidero and Tortora unknown even to most Italians - by helping to bring in new residents and filling some of the forsaken homes in the area. Now the couple are settled in Calabria, and Christina is pleased to say that their marriage-rescue relocation totally did work. With our business and the goals that we have working with the communities here, we have some really huge projects that were working on together as a couple and as co-business owners. We are definitely happy here, she says. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com FREMONT A Fremont school bus and Sandusky County Sheriffs deputies cars parked in front of the Walmart in Fremont on Friday, as the United Way of Sandusky County worked to Stuff the Bus with school supplies. It was the second year for the event, which was expanded to include all the school districts in the county. It is intended to help students and teachers, as they prepare to return to the classroom. The supplies are intended to help ensure students come to school ready to learn and that teachers have access to supplies through the year so every student can participate in classroom activities. Jill Simpson, CEO & President of United Way of Sandusky County, left, stands with Fremont Schools Superintendent Denice Hirt at the Stuff the Bus event in Fremont on Friday. Jill Simpson, CEO and president of United Way of Sandusky County, took time to speak after the donations started to be handed out. "I would say that we are doing really well, right now, Simpson said. We have boxes for all the schools and we have a Fremont City school bus. Anything that we dont collect, we will go out and purchase additional supplies for the schools. The team of a dozen volunteers was handing out lists of needed items as Walmart shoppers entered the store. Simpson said that it was the more expensive items that were needing more attention, items like disinfectant wipes, tissues and headphones. She pointed out that it is a single day event, but pointed out that districts and teachers still appreciate donations throughout the year. We really want to thank the community. We did this last year, for the first time, and I really did not expect to fill the bus. It was just heartwarming to see the people come out here and give and I think it feels good for the people to give, Simpson said. This is the big bus, and we really filled it. Every seat was full. New Fremont Superintendent Denice Hirt was with the group and commented on the importance of the event. The Stuff the Bus activity is going wonderfully. We have received so much support from the community. We have had lots and lots of participation. I see boxes for the entire county being filled. For Fremont Schools this is an opportunity for some of our parents to know that some of those important school supplies will be waiting for their children, as they enter the building, and that makes a huge relief for some of our families, it allows our students to be excited and helps them to start the school year. Every school district in the county is being offered school supplies, with baskets set in front of the school bus, if donors wanted to direct the supplies to a specific district. There was also a collection box for cash donations. Hirt thanked United Way for their assistance and giving the community the opportunity to give and receive. Sandusky County Sheriffs Deputy Eric Jordan, left, is with 6th grader Janyia Martin, who is going into Fremont Middle School. He is the School Resource Officer at Fremont Middle School and the Fremont elementary schools. Sheriffs Deputy Eric Jordan was greeting 6th grader Janyia Martin at the door of Walmart. She is going into Fremont Middle School. He is the School Resource Officer at Fremont Middle School and the Fremont elementary schools. We are seeing a lot of generous people, who are donating back to the community, Jordan said. Its been a great event. Even people who are struggling, financially, they are still finding a way to help out. (Deputies) are here from the Sheriffs Office, as School Resource Officers. We love being here and helping out with the community. He most enjoys being able to mentor students. I had her at 5th grade, and now I will see her in middle school, Jordan said. I try to be a mentor to students, who might not have that. Janyia does drama and plays volleyball. Im looking forward to volleyball, Janyia said, a little shy, but with a big smile. Hirt commented on Jordans impact. Hes just really good. Hes there every day, Monday through Friday. He will also step in and lend a hand when needed. And for our youngest students, its great to see law enforcement, in a very positive sense, Hirt said. Ive seen him helping out in art classes and other teaching activities, hes just a great guy. He has great interactions with kids. The event was being held during Ohios annual sales tax holiday when Ohio sets aside special days for consumers to buy certain items without sales tax. This sales tax holiday helps families buy clothing, supplies, and more items their children may need to be successful in the coming school year. A list of needed school supplies can be found in the store or on United Ways website at https://uwsandco.org/. The event is being held in partnership with the Sandusky County Public Health, Sandusky County Sheriffs Department, and Walmart. rlapointe@gannett.com 419-332-2674 This article originally appeared on Fremont News-Messenger: Stuff the Bus school supply drive a relief for parents From the souks of Morocco to the river markets of Vietnam, and from the mom and pop shops of India to the luxury fruit stores of Japan, it's fun to shop like a local when you travel abroad. Grocery store tourism has become a hot trend among world travelers. People love to see and try all unique products they can't get at home. If you're visiting the United States, Trader Joe's is where you go when you want to find snacks you can't get anywhere else, and they're always bringing in new and exciting things. It's also known for its location-specific items, like the viral San Francisco Sourdough and the Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies. However, you won't find one outside of the U.S. anytime soon. Given how long some people have been asking for Trader Joe's to expand into other towns in the US, expecting one to pop up in another country feels like a long shot. And that's because it is. Former CEO, Dan Bane, said in an episode of the "Inside Trader Joe's" podcast that "Opening stores outside the 48 states requires us to solve unique logistical and operational problems and we would only open stores where we are able to bring real value to our customers." Essentially, all of the extra costs it would require for TJ's to open up abroad would go against the chain's strategy at home, which is decreasing operational costs as much as possible to keep the food prices down. Read more: 34 Absolute Best Snacks From Trader Joe's, Ranked By Taste The Call For More Trader Joe's Is A Conflicting One Trader Joe's shopping baskets - Richard Levine/Getty Images Trader Joe's is one of the most popular grocery chains in the US, and it's not uncommon for people who travel from abroad to take a gander inside one of its stores while they're visiting people from Alaska are known to pack extra bags with them, just for bringing TJ's products back home. But, it's not only something people across countries and seas experience. There are entire states in the US without a single Trader Joe's store, including Alaska, Hawaii, Mississippi, Montana, the Dakotas, West Virginia, and Wyoming. It's not because the people don't want them there, either. Plenty of people have called for a Trader Joe's location to expand into their home states and towns, but until that happens, they'll be stocking up when and wherever they can. Whether traveling from abroad or the state over, people pick up a variety of things when they get the chance to stop into Trader Joe's. That includes snacks, pantry staples, and specialty ingredients the most common of which aren't that different from those who shop there regularly. For instance, the olive oil, nutritional yeast, Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups, dried Mango, and Everything But The Bagel seasoning blend are just some of the go-to items people grab when they visit from overseas. Read the original article on Tasting Table. OSLO, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide has issued a strong advisory urging all Norwegian citizens currently in Lebanon to leave the country immediately due to the escalating security situation. "The security situation in Lebanon is serious and could rapidly deteriorate further. Opportunities to travel out of Lebanon may cease at short notice," Eide stated in a press release on Monday night. He emphasized the potential complications that could arise if Beirut's airport were to close, highlighting the limited capacity of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to assist Norwegian citizens in such a scenario. "If the airport in Beirut closes, it will be very difficult to leave Lebanon. In such a situation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will have very few opportunities to help Norwegian citizens. We have for some time advised Norwegian citizens in Lebanon to leave the country," he said. Approximately 100 Norwegian citizens are currently registered as being in Lebanon, although the actual number may be higher. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated its call for these citizens to depart. Despite several airlines canceling flights in recent days, some scheduled flights continue to operate from Beirut's airport, providing limited opportunities for departure. In related travel advisories, Norway's Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently updated its recommendations for Israel and Palestine, advising against all travel to both regions. DARLINGTON COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) One person was killed and another person was taken to the hospital Monday evening after a head-on crash in Darlington County, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol. It happened on South Charleston Road near Long Marsh Road about six miles east of Darlington when a 2003 Toyota Camry went left of center and hit a 2016 Nissan Altima. SCHP Master Trooper Gary Miller said. Troopers responded at about 6:15 p.m. The driver of the Camry was killed in the crash, while the driver of the Altima was taken to McLeod hospital in Florence. No additional information was immediately available. Count on News13 for updates. * * * Dennis Bright is a Digital Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on, Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. 1 dead after pickup truck crashes into pole, tree in Ohio One person is dead after their pickup truck crashed into a pole and a tree in Ohio. Around 7 p.m. Aug. 5 Ohio State Highway Patrol Troopers were dispatched to John Woods Rd in Jackson Township, Brown County on reports of a crash. The preliminary investigation indicated that 55-year-old Danny Burdine Jr. of Winchester was driving a pickup truck westbound on John Woods Rd. >> Nature reserve restroom closed due to vandalism in Greene County The truck went off the right side of the road where it struck a utility pole, a fence, and a tree before stopping. Burdine Jr. was seriously injured as a result of the crash and was flown by Air Care to the University of Cincinnati Hospital. He later succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital. The crash remains under investigation. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) Two separate gunshot incidents occurred Saturday night in Jamestown, with officers dispatched less than an hour apart, according to the Jamestown Police Department. Police said around 7:15 p.m., they responded to Lafayette Street near Isabella Avenue for a gunshot complaint. Multiple shell casings were observed in the area as they secured the scene. Ten minutes later, it was reported that a male with an injury consistent with a gunshot wound had arrived at UPMC Chautauqua. The male was treated for non-life-threatening injuries and released. Just before 8:10 p.m., approximately a mile away from the first incident, Jamestown Police were dispatched to Columbia Avenue for another gunshot complaint. Police say rounds had struck a residence and no one was injured. The investigations are ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Jamestown Police at 716-483-7537 or the confidential tip line at 716-483-8477. Latest Local News Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) One person was injured in a shooting on Edge O Lake Drive Monday night, Metro officers on scene told News 2. The shooting was reported at roughly 5:30 p.m. in the 2500 block of Edge O Lake Drive, according to Metro Police. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts Witnesses told authorities that there was an argument when the suspect pulled out a gun. The victim was shot in the leg, torso and arm and taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Officials said the suspect is a man believed to be in his twenties and was last seen wearing a white or red shirt, black shoes, and a blue ball cap. Witnesses reportedly told authorities that they saw the suspect flee the scene in a white sedan. CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee Police added that they believe this was an isolated incident with no ongoing threat to the community. Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go. Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox. Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee. This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. 1 Iowa teen dies, and another injured in gravel road crash CERRO GORDO COUNTY, Iowa A teenager died and another was injured in a crash on a gravel road just north of Clear Lake Monday afternoon. A crash report from the Iowa State Patrol said the accident happened at 2:20 p.m. on Hickory Avenue north of 275th St. Jannali Bear-Dont-Walk, 15, was driving a Subaru Outback northbound on Hickory Avenue when they lost control and crossed into the path of a southbound GMC 3500 pickup. The truck, driven by 50-year-old John Furst, struck the Outback. Waukee man stabbed during family dispute has died Bear-Dont-Walk and a passenger in the Outback, 16-year-old Aali Martinez, were transported to Mercy Mason City. The ISP report said Bear-Dont-Walk died. The report did not list injuries for Furst. All of the parties involved in the accident were from Clear Lake. The Iowa State Patrol is continuing its investigation into the crash. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. Preliminary data for the Aug. 6 primary from the Secretary of State's office shows once again that absentee voting remains a popular choice in Michigan amid the expansion of voting options. A Michigan ballot measure to establish early voting in state passed with about 60% support in 2022. Under the new system, Michigan communities must provide at least nine days of early voting ahead of statewide and federal elections but can choose to offer more time to cast a ballot before Election Day. Across Michigan's early voting period for the August primary, 73,531 voters cast a ballot at an early voting site, according to the Secretary of State's office. With voters planning to head to the polls Tuesday and return absentee ballots, it's unclear what share of the total ballots cast in the August primary will come from those early voters. The total early votes cast for this upcoming primary number fewer than the 78,093 early votes cast in the February presidential primary when about 4% of Michigan voters cast a ballot in person at an early voting site, according to data from the Secretary of State's office. Many Michigan voters still opt to fill out their absentee ballot at home. According to data the Secretary of State's office shared the day before the election, 970,041 Michigan voters have returned their absentee ballot for the Aug. 6 primary. While some communities across the state tested out an early voting process last year, this year's presidential primary election in February was the first statewide election that gave voters the option to cast a ballot in person before Election Day. It marked another significant expansion of voting options in the state after the 2020 election cycle gave every voter the right to cast an absentee ballot. Michigan Voter Guide: Key Races The vast majority of states offer early in-person voting, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. While some Michigan voters have filled out an absentee ballot in person at a clerk's office and returned it to election workers to be counted later, the early voting process allows voters to feed their ballot through the tabulator. Under Michigan's election law, Michigan's early voting ended the Sunday before Election Day this year but may be offered on the Monday before Election Day starting in 2026. Contact Clara Hendrickson at chendrickson@freepress.com or 313-296-5743. Follow her on X, previously called Twitter, @clarajanehen. Looking for more on Michigans elections this year? Check out our voter guide, subscribe to our elections newsletter and always feel free to share your thoughts in a letter to the editor. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan primary election: 1 million have already voted 1 person killed and 12 injured in Russian attack on Kharkiv On 6 August, a Russian strike on Kharkiv killed one person and injured twelve others. Source: Zelenskyy's evening video address on 6 August Quote: "Work continues in Kharkiv following the Russian strike. People are trapped under the rubble, help is provided to the greatest possible extent. As of now, 12 individuals have been injured, and one, regrettably, has died." Background: Earlier, Russian forces carried out a missile attack on the city centre of Kharkiv on the morning of 6 August, damaging a clinic building. So far two people have turned to medics for assistance, and some people may be trapped under the rubble. Representatives of the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War reported that a Russian missile hit near their regional consulting centre. Support UP or become our patron! SALISBURY, Md. (DC News Now) Maryland State Police (MSP) are searching for the person involved in the deadly shooting of a 10-year-old boy in Salisbury on Monday. Around 10:30 p.m., police officers with the Salisbury Police Department responded to a home in the 200 block of Clayton Street after receiving a 911 call about a shooting. There, police found a 10-year-old boy who had been shot. Medics took him to the hospital where he died. Man dies in stabbing outside business in Prince Georges County Police said they believe the boy was inside the house with his mom and two other young children during the shooting. There are no suspects in custody as of Tuesday morning. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about this shooting is urged to call Criminal Solvers of the Eastern Shore at 410-548-1776. Callers can remain anonymous. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. (KLFY) The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are still looking for leads regarding an endangered whooping crane that was found dead in Evangeline Parish in January. On the morning of Jan. 9, a juvenile whooping crane was found dead in an agricultural pond on the south side of Besi Lane in Mamou. A necropsy determined that the crane was shot, which resulted in a fracture of the spine and internal hemorrhaging. A total of $12,500 is being offered by various organizations for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the shooting. The reward includes the USFWS offering up to $5,000, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation up to $2,500, the International Crane Foundation up to $2,500 and the Dallas Zoo up to $2,500. Rayne man ordered to pay $85,000 in fines and restitution for killing a whooping crane Whooping cranes are the most endangered of the worlds crane species. The Louisiana flock is designated as a non-essential, experimental population but is protected under state law, the Endangered Species Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The Louisiana population is currently estimated to be 81 whooping cranes. This reintroduced population marked the first presence of whooping cranes in the wild in Louisiana since 1950. The crane in this case was released in November 2023. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest LDWF with support from partners has released 167 whooping cranes since 2011 in an effort to reintroduce the birds to the state. Another 35 cranes have been hatched and reared in the wild or translocated to Louisiana from a previously reintroduced population in Florida. Anyone with information about this case should call the USFWS at 985-882-3756 or the LDWF Lake Charles Office at 337-491-2588. Callers can remain anonymous if they choose. Latest news Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLFY.com. **Related Video Above: Road safety in Ohio AKRON, Ohio (WJW) Police are investigating after a 15-year-old boy was shot while riding a scooter in Akron early Tuesday morning. First responders were called to the 2000 block of 13th Street S. W. just after 12:30 a.m. for reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, Akron police said they found a teen inside of a home who appeared to be shot multiple times. Suspicious items close I-76 in Akron Akron EMS took the victim to the hospital. While police describe the boys injuries as non-life threatening, his condition is not known at this time. Police said they are not releasing the teens identity as the investigation continues. Police said they learned the victim had been riding a scooter along 13th Street SW when he was reportedly shot by an unknown suspect. Bullet casings were found in the area. Some say they witnessed a miracle as blessed statue tours Northeast Ohio Anyone with information is encouraged to call Akron detectives at 330-375-2490 or Summit County Crimestoppers at 330-434-COPS. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. HELSINKI, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Finnish National Agency for Education announced on Monday that it recommends schools prohibit the disruptive use of mobile phones during classes and restrict their use during breaks. This announcement has sparked debate over whether and how to restrain mobile phone use in schools across society. The Ministry of Education is reported preparing legislation to enforce such restrictions. Minister for Education Anders Adlercreutz said on Monday that it remains uncertain whether a full ban will be enacted or if the forthcoming law will simply grant teachers broad authority to manage phone use in classrooms. However, he emphasized that any rules should be consistent across the country. It was recently announced that Tampere, the third most populous municipality in Finland, will implement "a mobile phone ban" in schools starting this week for the fall semester. Tampere's plan is to prohibit phones in junior high school classrooms from grades six to nine. However, it is a strong recommendation rather than an outright ban, the city said, as Finnish law does not allow for the complete prohibition of mobile phone use by students. Nevertheless, the city's decision was influenced by positive feedback on an experiment conducted last semester in three schools, where students had to surrender their phones during class. On Monday, Ville Raatikainen, director of Tampere's basic education, said to Xinhua that a total ban on mobile phones cannot be enforced. However, teachers have always the right to confiscate phones if they disrupt lessons. According to him, starting this semester, every school in Tampere will implement the ban, with a policy strongly recommending that students leave their phones in a designated container at the beginning of each lesson. In Raatikainen's view, the mobile phone ban could enhance students' concentration, reduce harassment caused by phones, and provide more structured lessons. He also noted that integrating new habits into school culture requires time and patience from all stakeholders. According to the Trade Union of Education in Finland (OAJ), mobile phones disrupt classes in both primary and secondary schools. Pauliina Viitamies, an OAJ special expert, told the Finnish national broadcaster Yle recently that teachers say it takes considerable time to address the disturbances caused by phones. Viitamies urged the government to address the issue promptly, stressing the importance of having uniform rules across all schools. She emphasized that stricter regulations and clearer guidelines are needed while ensuring that the legislation does not impose unreasonable additional work on teachers and other school staff. The Finnish Chamber of Commerce has lent its support to the restriction. In a press release published on Tuesday, Suvi Pulkkinen, chief expert at the business network, said that on average, young Finnish people receive over 200 notifications on their phones daily, with girls spending an average of six hours on their phones each day. Increasing in phone use has coincided with a decline in basic skills among children and young people, as well as rising behavioral and emotional challenges, she added. The proposal to ban mobile phone use in classrooms has gained broad support across society. According to a survey conducted by Yle, 85 percent of respondents believe that the use of mobile phones in schools for purposes other than studying should be restricted. Experts highlight the need to address the details of the practical implementation of the restriction without infringing on children's basic rights. Current legislation prohibits a total ban on mobile phones for the entire school day, as it would violate students' rights. An 18-year-old man was charged with murder in connection with the April fentanyl overdose of a 17-year-old girl, an Austin Police Department news release said Tuesday. A Texas law passed last year allows steeper charges for fentanyl-related crimes, including the option to bring murder charges against those who are suspected of manufacturing or delivering fentanyl that results in death. The case announced Tuesday is among the first such cases in Travis County. Authorities responded to a 911 call from the victim's father in the 1200 block of Knollpark Circle in North Austin at about 10:55 a.m. April 13, the release said. According to police, Sienna Rae Contreras' father told responding officers he had last seen his daughter alive the night before, and when he went to wake her in the morning, she was deceased in her bed, the release said. She was pronounced dead at 11:38 a.m. Investigators determined that Xavier Alexzander Buentello sold fentanyl to Contreras, causing her death hours later. The Austin Police Department charged Buentello with murder, under Texas Penal Code 19.02, which was enacted in September 2023. Buentello has been at the Travis County Jail for several months, where he was held for other charges, the release said. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Austin police charge 18-year-old with murder in teen's fentanyl death SIOUX FALLS S.D. (KELO) Two Sioux Falls men were arrested Tuesday morning after a chase on the East Side of the city, according to Sioux Falls police. Tea man charged with first-degree murder According to Sioux Falls Police Department spokesman Sam Clemens, 22-year-old Omot Karlo was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana and fleeing police. Also arrested was 21-year-old Abenezer Madebo, who faces charges of fleeing police, aggravated eluding, reckless driving, DWI, possession of marijuana and a few other traffic violations, according to Clemens. Omot Musa Karlo Abenezer Abebe Madebo The charges came from a report of a man threatening someone with a handgun on East 10th Street Tuesday morning. The man with the gun left the scene and drove away. The victim gave officials a description of the man with the guns car. According to Clemens, an officer in the area saw a car that matched the description and pursued the car after the driver refused to stop. There was one passenger in the car. Law enforcement pursued the car to Southeastern Avenue and East 41st Street, where the men drove the car off the road after a mechanical failure, Clemens said. The men fled on foot and the passenger was found with a handgun. Officials could not confirm whether the chase or handgun is in connection to the original report. We believe these two were probably involved with the aggravated assault but we dont have any charges relating to that at this point, Clemens said at police briefing. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. NORTH LAWRENCE, Ohio (WJW) Fire officials are investigating after two family dogs were killed in a house fire in Stark County Monday morning. According to the North Lawrence Fire Department, firefighters were called to a home in the 1000 block of Cyril Avenue SW just before 11 a.m. North Lawrence dogs killed in fire When they got there, firefighters found flames coming from the side of the home. First responders quickly learned that everyone made it out except for two dogs. So where were they?: Clevelanders waiting over 2 hours for police Firefighters made their way through the front door into the home, where there was heavy fire in the roof and kitchen. According to the department, firefighters had to move back into the living room after part of the roof collapsed. Crews found one dog in a bedroom and took it out of the home. According to fire officials, the dog was provided oxygen via pet mask by the crew but unfortunately did not make it. The other dog died inside the home, fire officials say. The State Fire Marshals Office was requested to investigate the fire. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. WARREN COUNTY, Ohio (WDTN) Two individuals were found guilty after taking the body of a dead deer off of a property. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources reports an unidentified landowner called the organization to report a dead deer in his backyard. ODNR said that the man told wildlife officials that the deer appeared to have been shot by a bow. According to ODNR, the man had to leave the property, but provided the wildlife officer with a photo. UD professor spots bobcat in Greene County When the ODNR officer attempted to initially look for the deer, it was nowhere to be found. A K-9 was deployed to help search, which later led to two people being identified. Eventually two individuals were identified, said ODNR. Further information revealed that the two individuals retrieved the deer when they watched the landowner leave. In Warren County Municipal Court, the two were found guilty of hunting without permission. The two paid a combined $550 in fees and court costs. If you are looking to retrieve harvested game, ODNR reminds you to have written permission by the landowner. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. VON BRAUN CENTER, Ala. (WHNT) Every year, defense industries, government agencies and manufacturers trying to break into the industry gather at the Von Braun Center to showcase their products and jockey for sponsorships at the Space and Mission Defense Symposium. Reporting at the symposium, News 19s Carolyn Kimball talks with local agencies about what products they bring to the table this year. The theme for the 2024 symposium: Space and Integrated Air and Missile Defense, the key to victories in contested areas. You can watch all the videos from the symposium below. Carolyn Kimball was able to get inside the south hall early where over 300 booths are set up by defense companies. Many of them are based in Huntsville and they fill up the east hall, south hall, and the new Saturn ballroom. Before the doors opened, Carolyn had the chance to talk to the Space and Missile Defense spokesperson Bob English about the impact the symposium has in his life and also across the nation. Carolyn talks with Vice President and GM of Strategic Missile Defense for Lockheed Martin Johnathan Caldwell. Caldwell talks about the Next Generation Interceptor produced by Lockheed Martin. Carolyn talks with Boeing representatives Pat Burden and Pierce Lehr about what projects they will be showing off at the symposium. Carolyn speaks with the Space and Missile Defence Command Lieutenant General Sean Gainey about how this event is bigger than just the army. Carolyn talks from outside the Von Braun Center with Teledyne Director of Engineering and Tests Brad Taylor about the Zombie Pathfinder and its significance at the symposium. Carolyn joins Vice President of Beehive Industries Scott Williams to talk about the products they will show off at the symposium such as the Turbine Rear Frame and Exhaust. Carolyn speaks with Blue Halo President for Armed Forces Portfolio Jimmy Jenkins about a device to take down unmanned aerosystems. Carolyn talks with Futaba Aerospace and Defense Engineer Mark Riddick about why they decided to attend the symposium this year. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. 3 hospitalized, 1 seriously injured after crash in Fairfax County FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) Fairfax County police said responders took three people to the hospital after two cars collided in Reston on Tuesday morning. The crash happened at Leesburg Pike and Dranesville Road. Police said that of the three people transported to the hospital, one had life-threatening injuries. Harris picks Walz for vice president For about two hours on Tuesday, Leesburg Pike East and Dranesville Road were shut down while crews investigated. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. More than half of eligible but unregistered voters are opting out of signing up to vote when given the chance at the California Department of Motor Vehicles, a tide of refusals that troubles grass-roots organizers such as Sacramento resident Julius Thibodeaux-Hasan. During election seasons, Thibodeaux-Hasan spends time educating people of color about whats at stake for them. How does a proposition or legislation affect their rights and privileges? How will they perpetuate or worsen inequities and disenfranchisement? They dont understand that they have a voice and that they need to weigh in on things that are happening in their communities, laws that are being passed, legislation that will impact them or impact their communities in ways that oftentimes have a negative impact. Thibodeaux-Hasan said. As he explains the implications and answers questions, he said, the light bulbs pop on. These potential voters had arrived unwilling to support a system that seemed wholly disconnected to them, he said but before leaving, many expressed a desire to have a say at the ballot box. Thats when Thibodeaux-Hasan said he discovers that far too many of them have never registered to vote, and he has to motivate them to get registered, something that they passed on doing on a past trip to the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Its at this stage, Thibodeaux-Hasan said, that he loses some of the momentum he had, and that is why hes urging California legislators to make voter registration automatic. Senate Bill 299, if passed by legislators and signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, would pave the way for the Secretary of State and DMV to do just that. While a coalition of more than 140 grass-roots groups are fighting for the measure, they face opposition from three organizations that have steadfastly defended voting rights: the League of Women Voters of California, California affiliates of the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials Educational Fund. The three groups have allied in their opposition of SB 299. Rosalind Gold, the chief public policy officer for the NALEO Educational Fund, said the organizations opposing SB 299 absolutely deeply share the proponents dedication to reducing a participation gap that particularly affects people of color and low income Californians as well as other underrepresented groups. Opponents seek more study to avoid mistakes Consequently, Gold said, they would like to continue the dialogue about the most effective way to expand registration among these groups without putting other California residents at risk. For instance, Gold said, how will this automatic registration process ensure that immigrants in the midst of the naturalization process do not wind up registered to vote, a mistake that could cost them their citizenship? We are ... concerned about the amendments which would make the DMV responsible for identifying and filtering people it believes are noncitizens, Gold and her allies wrote in a letter opposing the bill. We do not believe that this DMV is prepared to consistently and accurately track documents that would be relied on to assess citizenship. The DMV is already going through a modernization project that affects all of its drivers license operations and information technology systems, Gold said, and it has asked that any other changes be delayed until after it has completed those changes in 2028. In addition, the Legislative Analyst Office, has reported that the primary funding source for the DMV, known as the motor vehicle account, is expected to fully exhaust its reserves and become insolvent in 2025-26. Consequently, the LAO recommended that the legislature consider cost pressures when evaluating new proposals. The system we have now, in the six years its operated, has seen 26 million new or updated voter registration transactions, and the system we have now is the top registration method for youth and voters of color, Gold told The Bee, so because of these operational and fiscal concerns, we would support study of a bill that would look at the proposed changes. However, the organizations supporting SB 299 said the DMV system, as part of a longstanding routine, already flags the documents necessary to determine whether consumers in its system meet the eligibility criteria for voting. Hundreds of thousands opt out of voter registration yearly That data revealed that, in 2023, roughly 4.6 million Californians were eligible but unregistered. These individuals are disproportionately Asian, Black and Latino Americans, according to the Institute for Responsive Government. Last year alone, 922,024 California residents declined to register to vote during a visit to the DMV even though they provided documents showing they were eligible to do so, according to the Secretary of States 2023 New Motor Voter Annual Report. More people opted out 53.2% than those who opted in, 46.8%. In 2021, 55.4% of eligible but unregistered voters opted not to sign up. This represented slightly more than 1.2 million Californians. In 2019, nearly 1.5 million Californians, 45.2% of those who were eligible but unregistered, declined to register to vote. Sydney Fang, the policy director at AAPI FORCE, recalled that, as a child, she had been the English language translator for her parents, refugees whose native language was Cantonese, and voter registration was not at the top of their list of urgent paperwork. Despite improvements in providing documents in residents primary language, Fang said she believes there is still a language barrier for many immigrants. Under SB 299, if an eligible but unregistered voter opts out, they would be added to a list of pre-approved voters that would then go to the Secretary of States Office. That office would then make regulations dictating what voters would have to do to complete their registration and send a notice to voters in their preferred language explaining what they must do to opt out of or activate their registration. For example, Fang said, the registration could be activated simply by casting a vote in an election, but SB 299 leaves defining this to the Secretary of State. It also gives that constitutional officer the discretion to determine when the DMV should implement automatic registration, Fang said, so if implementation costs or system upgrades pose hurdles, the Secretary of State can opt to delay this process. Voter registration is a key barrier to voter participation in our democracy, and theres this gap in participation, Fang said. We see that the electorate (in California) is much older, much whiter, much wealthier than the rest of the state. According to the Public Policy Institute of California, state residents aged 55 and older make up 35% of the states adult population but constitute half of Californians who are likely to vote. Meanwhile, young adults between 18 and 34 make up 31% of the population but only 18% of likely voters. A strong majority of likely voters 69% are homeowners while 31% are renters, the PPIC found. By contrast, 68% of unregistered adults and 59% of infrequent voters are renters. The think tank also reported that 84% of likely voters and 80% of infrequent voters were born in the United States, compared with just 35% of unregistered adults. Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farmworkers and president of the Dolores Huerta Foundation, has been advocating for SB 299, saying that the current voter registration system works to maintain institutional racism rather than using technology to open the gates. In the past, California and other states used literacy tests, poll taxes and other measures to prevent people of color from securing the right to vote. Senator Monique Limon, a Santa Barbara Democrat who authored the bill, said: It is unacceptable that working-class communities of color continue to be systematically left out of access to political power. We must take the necessary steps to ensure that Californias diverse population becomes a diverse electorate that truly represents the power of our state. Changes would diversify the voter rolls, advocates say SB 299 expands upon Californias motor voter law, which required the DMV in 2018 to start offering residents the option to register to vote when they applied for a drivers license or state ID or updated their addresses. The measure, if enacted, would the same secure automatic voter registration process used in Colorado, Oregon and nine other states. This system would substantially improve the accuracy of the voter rolls, said Neal Ubriani of the Institute for Responsive Government, an advocacy organization. Its bringing people into the process who are historically left out. SB 299 doesnt just benefit voters, though, Ubriani said. The bill also would assist grassroots organizers like Thibodeaux-Hasan and others involved in getting out the vote for political campaigns, he said. A great deal of time and money goes into getting people registered to vote time and money that could be spent on boosting turnout on Election Day, he said. Itzel Maganda Chavez, civic engagement director for the activist group Alliance San Diego who does voter registration outreach with marginalized communities, said that the current automatic voter registration system is not the easiest option for non-English speakers, with many unwittingly opting out of voter registration. She said that while speaking with people in those communities, there was a common sense of frustration about not being able to participate in the electoral process. We know that response rates and voter turnout could be much higher not only in San Diego but in the state of California, Chavez said. Thibodeaux-Hasan said he feels that automatic registration would help many individuals who have previously been incarcerated. As executive director of Sacramentos Movement4Life, he works to reduce gun violence, and that work has allowed him to mentor or advise a number of local residents who, like him, have spent time in the corrections system at some point in their lives. Motivational mentors Selvan Griggs and Kamisha Driver meet with Lavaiah Sevier, 13, Rayna Charleswell, 14, and Ralph Bledsoe, 18, during a life skills training classes at Movement4Life in south Sacramento last month. These classes cover topics such as communication skills, time management and the importance of voting. This (SB-299) is definitely a no-brainer in regards to most individuals who have been system-impacted because theres this narrative out there that, once you get a record, you lose your right to vote, Thibodeaux-Hasan said. And, some may not be aware that Californias Prop 17, approved by voters in 2017, restores the rights to vote and to run for elected office to people currently on parole. Most of these young people who are system-impacted, ... they believe that theyre powerless, Thibodeaux-Hasan said. They dont understand how powerful their vote is. They dont think their vote matters. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) The Buffalo Police Department announced Tuesday that four people were arrested, including a minor, in connection with a shooting on the 200 block of Bird Avenue. Officers responded to a shooting call around 1:30 p.m. Saturday and found a victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds on Bird Avenue. 21-year-old Kabah Kabah of Buffalo was treated on scene before being transported to ECMC where he was declared deceased. A vehicle matching the description of a vehicle that fled the scene was observed by officers in the area, according to officials. Officers said they attempted to pull over the vehicle, but the driver refused to pull over and instead traveled on the 33 to the Skyway from Church Street. As it drove over the Skyway, several items were allegedly thrown from the vehicle. Two weapons, a Glock 19 with a loaded magazine and a loaded Springfield Armory Hellcat, were later recovered at the base of the Skyway, officials said. The vehicle stopped and occupants fled near Tifft Street and Fuhrmann Boulevard, officials said. The four occupants of the vehicle were apprehended. 21-year-old Mekhi Harwell, 22-year-old Keith Jackson-Martin, 38-year-old Edward Harwell, and a 17-year-old boy were charged identically with two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. The investigation remains ongoing and further charges are expected. Latest Local News Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. Nine people are dead, including six children, after a vehicle overturned in a Florida canal, authorities said. A lone survivor who was injured in the crash remains hospitalized, authorities said. The incident occurred Monday evening in Palm Beach County. At approximately 7:30 p.m., authorities began receiving calls reporting a car in a canal near Belle Glade, authorities said. First responders found a vehicle upside down with only the wheels visible, according to Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Capt. Tom Reyes. PHOTO: The scene after a vehicle crashed into a canal in Palm Beach County Florida, Aug. 6, 2024. (WPBF) MORE: Firefighter dies in the line of duty in while battling Kansas house fire The vehicle had been traveling westbound on Hatton Highway when, "for undetermined reasons," the driver failed to properly negotiate a left curve in the roadway, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office's accident report. The vehicle went off the roadway onto the shoulder before hitting a guardrail and overturning in the canal, according to the accident report. PHOTO: The scene after a vehicle crashed into a canal in Palm Beach County Florida, Aug. 6, 2024. (WPBF) Four victims were pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Palm Beach Sheriff's Office. Six others were transported to a local hospital, including two via helicopter, according to Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. Five people subsequently died at the hospital, the sheriff's office said. The deceased victims included six children -- a 1-year-old girl, a 3-year-old boy, two 5-year-old boys, an 8-year-old boy and a 14-year-old boy -- according to the accident report. Three women -- ages 21, 30 and the 56-year-old driver -- were also killed, according to the accident report. PHOTO: Police arrive on the scene where a car crashed in to a canal in Florida on Aug. 5, 2024. (WPBF) MORE: 20-year-old man falls 400 feet to his death from rim of Grand Canyon The lone surviving passenger was identified by the accident report as 26-year-old Jorden Hall. He suffered serious injuries in the crash and remains hospitalized, according to the accident report. "We have one survivor for a total of 10 victims including babies," the Palm Beach Sheriff's Office said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families during this heartbreaking incident." The family members were visiting Florida for a relative's 80th birthday party, according to ABC New Haven, Connecticut, affiliate WTNH. PHOTO: Police arrive on the scene where a car crashed in to a canal in Florida on Aug. 5, 2024. (WPBF) Fire rescue personnel, including divers, along with the Palm Beach Sheriff's Office, responded to the scene, officials said. The Palm Beach Sheriff's Office is investigating the cause of the crash. 9 dead, including 6 children, after vehicle overturns in Florida canal originally appeared on abcnews.go.com File photo: A boat from Hellgate Jetboat Excursions collided with a private boat on the Rogue River in southern Oregon on Sunday. Five people were injured Sunday when a commercial jet boat collided with a private boat on southern Oregons Rogue River. The tour boat was operated by Hellgate Jetboat Excursions, which provides frequent high-speed trips from Grants Pass into the rivers canyons, according to the Josephine County Sheriffs Office. The crash took place at Two Bit Riffle, located about 2 miles downriver from Robertson Bridge, the sheriff's office said. Those injured were taken onto the Hellgate jetboat and returned to the tour companys docks in Grants Pass and met by medical personnel, a news release said. The private boat sank and floated downriver. Multiple agencies are attempting to remove it. The condition of the five injured was not released. Josephine County Sheriffs Office said it is conducting an investigation into what happened. "We are grateful for the actions of our Pilot and all crew members that ensured the passengers were kept safe and cared for. We also appreciate the professionalism and care offered by the responding emergency agencies," Hellgate Jetboat Excursions said in a statement Monday. The company declined to offer details on what happened. "Today we continue to gather information and learn about what occurred as we cooperate with the investigation," the business said. "As with any evolving investigation we would encourage everyone to take pause and wait for the official report so the facts of the event can be shared accurately. To our community, we thank you. We genuinely appreciate your outpouring of kindness and support and feel fortunate to be a part of this community." Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 16 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast. Urness is the author of Best Hikes with Kids: Oregon and Hiking Southern Oregon. He can be reached at zurness@StatesmanJournal.com or (503) 399-6801. Find him on X at @ZachsORoutdoors. This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: 5 injured after Hellgate jetboat collides with boat on Rogue River SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Google has violated the U.S. antitrust law by maintaining a monopoly in the online search market, a federal judge from the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia ruled on Monday. Judge Amit Mehta agreed with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) that Google has a monopoly in "general search services" and "the general search text ads market." "After having carefully considered and weighed the witness testimony and evidence, the court reaches the following conclusion: Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly," according to the court's ruling. "It has violated Section 2 of the Sherman Act." Google controls about 90 percent of the online search market and 95 percent on smartphones, said the ruling, capping a yearslong case. The DOJ reportedly sued in 2020 over Google's dominance in online search, which was the first time in a generation that the U.S. government accused a major corporation of an illegal monopoly. "This landmark decision holds Google accountable," DOJ antitrust Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter said in a statement. "It paves the path for innovation for generations to come and protects access to information for all Americans." Kent Walker, Google's president of Global Affairs, said the company intends to appeal Mehta's ruling. "This decision recognizes that Google offers the best search engine, but concludes that we shouldn't be allowed to make it easily available," he said in a statement. "As this process continues, we will remain focused on making products that people find helpful and easy to use." Google's fate will be decided in the next phase of proceedings, which could determine potential fixes possibly including a breakup of Google's parent Alphabet, according to media reports. The next separate antitrust trial between the DOJ and Google is set to begin on Sept. 9 in Virginia. That case will focus on whether Google has illegally monopolized advertising technology. Amazon, Apple, and Meta now all face monopolization lawsuits from the U.S. government. Five men arrested in Troy who fled after committing a home invasion were part of a transnational gang, authorities said. Three of the men are citizens of Colombia, a fourth is from Mexico and the fifth is of unknown origin, according to the Oakland County Prosecutors Office. Investigators tied the incident to recent break-ins of upscale houses by criminal gangs of foreign nationals that have put homeowners across metro Detroit on edge. Each of the five is being held on a $1 million cash bond, county officials said. Police were alerted that intruders were inside the house by the owner, who was notified by his home security system that someone was inside. Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald praised the homeowner as well as Troy police for the quick action that led to the alleged crooks capture. More: Oakland Sheriff: Coming to a mansion near you could be 'transnational gangs' of burglars More: Northville Township warns of string of robberies targeting pricey homes Theft rings have become a major contributor to crime in our community, and I am committed to continued collaboration with law enforcement to keep these dangerous criminals off of the street, McDonald said in a news release. Following Saturdays arrests in Troy, two key suspects were Owen Jean Cortes, 25, of Colombia, charged with second-degree home invasion and possession of burglars' tools, and Luis Felipe Camargo, 43, of Mexico, charged with second-degree home invasion and operating a vehicle with a suspended license. In addition, three were charged just with second-degree home invasion: Michel Leandro Alba Rincon, 39, of Colombia; Omar Giovanny Rodriguez Aponte, 48, also of Colombia, and Geovanny Enrique Castellanos Forero, 27, whose nation of origin was unclear. Security camera tips off homeowner The groups agenda began unraveling at 12:45 p.m., when the owner of a house in Troy, while at work, got a notification from their home security system that someone was inside the home, according to a police news release. As the release stated, The victim checked their security phone app and observed an individual in the living room. ... The homeowner was watching the intruder via a camera inside the home while they were at work. The suspect was described as a male wearing a dark shirt and a mask. The suspect turned the interior camera towards a wall, causing the homeowner to lose sight of the intruder, but the homeowner quickly called 911. Numerous officers converged on the area in the 3600 block of Milay, a street of houses valued at $400,000 to $450,000, according to online real estate listings. Officers quickly fanned out to track the suspects, who had split up, as a news release describes: Officers observed a suspect (Cortes) running west through the Pro Car Wash parking lot, away from the general direction of the home. A foot pursuit ensued as Cortes ran west across Rochester Road, jumping a cement wall behind 3635 Rochester Road, formerly Sakura Asian Restaurant, now a Muslim mosque. Cortes was taken into custody in the area of Hidden Ridge Drive and Colebrook Avenue. Officers observed a second suspect (Alba), walking slowly southbound on the east sidewalk of Rochester Road, who appeared to be filming the foot pursuit with a cell phone. Alba was then observed walking into Nonis Restaurant. Contact was made by officers and Alba was also taken into custody. Detectives observed a third suspect (Rodriguez) walking southbound on the west sidewalk of Rochester Road toward East Big Beaver Road. Surveillance of Rodriguez was maintained and he was observed getting into a silver Honda Odyssey with a Virginia license plate. A traffic stop was conducted on the vehicle where three additional suspects were taken into custody. Rodriguez as a passenger, Castellanos as a passenger and Franco as the driver. Latest in a wave of crime All five defendants were being held Monday night in the Oakland County Jail. A probable cause conference for the five is scheduled on Aug.15 at 9:30 a.m. in Troy District Court. Second-degree home invasion is a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000. Possession of burglars' tools is a felony punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment. Driving with a suspended license is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days jail and a fine of up to $500. Previous break-ins of upscale houses in suburban Detroit resulted in thefts of jewelry, cash, safes and high-end purses, according to the Oakland County Sheriffs Office. The break-ins are being committed by gangs who originate south of the border, and they've struck nationwide but repeatedly in Oakland County, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard has said. At recent community meetings, Bouchard encouraged residents to upgrade their home security systems, bolt safes to floors, add outdoor lighting and protect against intruders who increasingly enter through second-story windows and doors, he said. Contact Bill Laytner: blaitner@freepress.com. Were gathering insights on artificial intelligence and would love to hear from you. Take this short survey and help us understand your views. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Prosecutor: Transnational gang members arrested in Troy home invasion The abrupt turnaround of a plea deal in the 9/11 case last week has left victims families reeling while raising political questions for the Pentagon and Biden administration. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austins Friday cancellation of the deal that would have taken the death penalty off the table for three prisoners accused of helping to plot the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks an agreement announced only two days prior was described as emotional whiplash for family members who supported the plan. The plea agreement was meant to resolve the case with lifetime sentences for the man accused of planning the attacks, Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, and two accused accomplices. But blowback from Republicans and victims families, who bashed the plea deal as too lenient for the defendants, coupled with the administrations sudden reversal, has put the case back in the public spotlight. Here are five key takeaways and questions that remain. 9/11 deal tried to settle long-delayed case The agreement struck between the Office of Military Commissions and Mohammad, also known as KSM, as well as two of his accomplices, involved life sentences, allowing them to avoid the death penalty. The deals were an effort to put to rest long-running cases that some doubt will ever reach an end. KSM is accused of being the chief mastermind behind the 9/11 attacks, which killed nearly 3,000 people. Two of his accomplices that struck the deal are also accused of helping to plot the attacks, while another two prisoners have been charged in the case but did not reach the plea deal last week. All five defendants have been held since the early 2000s and are now detained at the Guantanamo Bay facility in Cuba. They were charged in 2008 and again in 2012 but have been stuck in pretrial proceedings. Retired Brig. Gen. Susan Escallier, a lawyer and the Pentagon official responsible for military commissions, signed off on the plea agreement with the three men, with the contents mostly secret. It followed the 51st round of pretrial hearings, a closed court session involving no defendants. Shortly after Escallier approved the deal, family members of the 9/11 victims were notified via phone calls, with one such individual being told the agreement was the best worst option, The New York Times reported. And in a letter to the relatives, survivors of the attacks and other victims, such as New York City firefighters, prosecutors said they had not reached the decision lightly. Austin was flying home from the Philippines after a weeklong trip to Asia, and learned of the deal toward the end of the flight. Austins order, released Friday night, nullified the earlier agreements. Austin has the ultimate authority above Escallier, the head of the Convening Authority at the Pentagon, which oversees the Office of Military Commissions, established after 9/11 to prosecute foreign individuals related to terrorism charges. Republican backlash Just hours after the plea deal was announced late Wednesday, Republicans criticized the Biden administration and accused it of failing to stand up to terrorists. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) both released statements criticizing the deal and said it would embolden terrorists. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Ala.), chair of the House Armed Services Committee, sent a letter to Austin demanding answers about how the plea deal was reached. Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), chair of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, opened a formal investigation of the plea deal and sent a letter to President Biden asking for relevant records, communications and information. After Austin revoked the plea deal, Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and McConnell released a joint statement saying they were glad the Defense secretary came to his senses, but threatened to follow through with legislation if another deal is made. The President must know that we continue to watch this situation closely, the lawmakers wrote in the statement. The Justice for 9/11 Act is introduced, and if the Administration ever changes course, we stand ready to overturn any future cowardly plea deals with the murderous mastermind of that tragic day. Some Democrats, however, are upset over the Austin reversal. I urge Secretary Austin to reverse this deeply disappointing decision, which denies finality and justice to 9/11 families and exposes yet again the lack of independence that has haunted the military commissions from the outset, Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) wrote on the social platform X. Austin surprised by deal Austin was surprised by the U.S. military commissions decision, according to Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh. The Pentagon chief was certainly surprised, as we all were, Singh told reporters Monday. She later added, This is a case of such significance that the secretary felt it was appropriate for the authority to rest with him. Austins timing, after Republicans and victims families lambasted the administration and ahead of a contentious presidential election, raised questions about whether the move was largely politically motivated. The White House has dodged questions over what role it may have played in Austins decision to rescind the plea deal, with national security communications adviser John Kirby saying Sunday that the move was not Bidens to make. This was a decision made by the secretary of Defense. It was an independent decision by him, certainly within his authorities, as in the chain of command at the Defense Department, Kirby told Jacqui Heinrich on Fox News Sunday. Singh also said Austin reached the decision on his own and that she was not aware of any conversations with Biden. This is not something that the secretary was consulted on, Singh said. We were not aware that the prosecution or defense would enter the terms of the plea agreement. Whiplash for families While some family members of the 9/11 victims seemed pleased with the administrations decision, those who supported the deal were stunned by the reversal. The men who perpetrated the death of thousands on September 11th; men who have never uttered a word of remorse, should be justly punished. But what happened this week to 9/11 families is emotional whiplash, the group September 11th Families for Peaceful Tomorrows, which supported the plea deal, said in a statement. While the plea deal was not the outcome originally hoped for, it offered a path to finality. The group said it was upended in a move that both betrays 9/11 family members and undermines the very government attorneys charged with prosecuting this case. Our larger concerns today are for this country, for the future of our children and grandchildren when legal principles are compromised, they wrote. Other families had earlier expressed anger with the deal, saying it circumvents their desire for a trial to show in detail what happened in the 9/11 attacks, in which hijacked planes crashed into the twin towers in New York City, a field in Shanksville, Pa., and the Pentagon. One group of family members, 9/11 Justice, was troubled about not being able to obtain any information from KSM and the other two defendants to help an ongoing civil case that seeks to link Saudi Arabia to the attacks. Terry Strada, national chair of 9/11 Families United, said the Austin revocation was a relief for many families like mine, who have tirelessly fought for justice and to have our voices heard. Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and his associates should be shown the same mercy they showed my husband and the thousands of others they brutally murdered on 9/11none, she said in a statement. We are grateful to Secretary Austin for doing the right thing and listening to the voices of the 9/11 community. Stradas organization also seeks justice against Saudi Arabia and supports a bill that would allow plaintiffs to more easily sue any person or entity, including another country, for aiding and abetting terrorism. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is also against Austin revoking the plea deal, saying he prevented a guilty verdict. This rash act also violates the law, and we will challenge it in court, the ACLU said in a statement, alleging politics had dishonored an agreement reached after years of hard work and painstaking consultation by all the parties involved. Case likely to be mired in pretrial proceedings Its not clear how the case will play out now, but the military commission has for years struggled to bring the defendants to a trial and the case may get pushed back into lengthy legal proceedings. The military commission has also generally struggled to secure convictions. Just eight people have been convicted of terrorism-related cases in the post-9/11 commission, and four of those have been overturned. Only one person has ever been convicted related to the 9/11 cases, Zacarias Moussaoui, known as the 20th hijacker, who was detained in August 2001 before the plane attacks. In KSMs case, the U.S. has been accused of torturing him at Guantanamo Bay, including with waterboarding. Any evidence from interrogations may not be admissible in court. While the Pentagon has acknowledged the years of delays in this case, Austin wants a trial, Singh said Monday. He believes that the families and the American public deserves the opportunity to see military commission trials carried out in this case, she said. If we can move to the trials and that has been ongoing and has been many, many years but that is what he believes is the best course of action. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Louisiana officials unveiled posters of the Ten Commandments that could soon be placed in every public school classroom across the state. The designs are not final but instead represent potential ways for schools to follow the new state law requiring most K-12 schools to display posters with the religious text. Heres what else you need to know to Get Up to Speed and On with Your Day. 1. Veepstakes Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to announce her running mate today, ending a whirlwind of speculation since she rose to the top of the Democratic ticket. Harris has focused on Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, sources tell CNN, though the process is still fluid and none of the finalists can be ruled out. The Harris campaign plans to officially announce the choice through an online message to supporters before a rally in Philadelphia today, where shes expected to make her first appearance with her VP pick before the duo visits other battleground states. Former President Donald Trumps running mate, JD Vance, is also set to campaign in the city after both held a rally in Georgia on Saturday. 2. Storm Debby Debby has weakened from a hurricane to a strong tropical storm as it moves through Florida, Georgia and South Carolina this week. At least five people have been killed in the Southeast US since Debby made landfall Monday morning in Floridas Big Bend region, authorities said. The storm has dumped more than a months worth of rain in Florida, prompting widespread evacuations amid hazardous travel. Rainfall totals of at least a foot are expected to stretch from northern Florida to southeastern North Carolina through Friday night. But some areas especially coastal South Carolina and Georgia could pick up as much as 30 inches of rain in the same timeframe. 3. Middle East Middle Eastern nations are bracing for the potential widening of the Israel-Hamas war amid threats by Iran to avenge the killing of Hamas political leader in Tehran last week. Both Tehran and Hamas blame Israel for the death of Ismail Haniyeh but Israel hasnt confirmed or denied involvement. In a last-ditch effort at diplomacy, regional countries have reached out to Iran to try to calm tensions. The US said it has boosted its preparedness to defend Israel in case of another Iranian attack. The Defense Department is also closely monitoring the safety of Americans in the region after several US personnel were injured in a suspected rocket attack on Monday against US and coalition forces at an airbase in Iraq. US officials blamed Iran-aligned militia groups, calling it a dangerous escalation. 4. Market tumble S&P 500 futures bounced higher in overnight trading, providing some potential relief after Mondays brutal trading session during which the index shed a colossal $1.3 trillion in value. The overnight rebound came after all three major indexes suffered a major sell-off on Monday, sparked by fears that the US economy is slowing faster than expected. The Dow plunged 1,034 points, or 2.6%, and the S&P 500 shed 3% notching the worst day since 2022. The Nasdaq Composite also slid 3.4%. Meanwhile, Japanese stocks suffered their biggest daily losses since 1987. Japanese shares have quickly clawed back some of their record losses but other markets remain mixed. 5. Google Google lost a massive antitrust lawsuit Monday over its search dominance. The ruling is a stunning rebuke of the companys most important business and has the potential to reshape how millions of Americans get information online. Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly, US District Judge Amit Mehta wrote in Mondays opinion. The company has spent tens of billions of dollars on exclusive contracts to secure a dominant position as the worlds default search provider on smartphones and web browsers, giving it the scale to block out potential rivals. A separate proceeding will determine what penalties Google will face, after which point the company is also likely to file an appeal. BREAKFAST BROWSE Drop the beat: Breaking is making its Olympics debut in Paris The breaking competition this Friday and Saturday will feature athletes from more than a dozen countries. Heres how their performances will be scored. Eat the beet: Why you should get 5 fruit and vegetable servings a day Fruits and vegetables are without question an important part of nutrition but a new study shows how important they are to chronic disease prevention. China moon samples reveal water molecules in major discovery Finding water on the moon is, on its own, nothing new. But experts say one of Chinas groundbreaking discoveries could help understand how water is stored on the lunar surface. How did ancient Egyptians stack the stones of the oldest pyramid? Scientists are floating a new theory on how Egypts first pyramid was built more than 4,000 years ago. New tech will trap CO2 from cargo ships and store it in the ocean A US startup wants to equip cargo ships with reactors that turn carbon dioxide from the engines into ocean salts. Heres how the process could significantly reduce ships CO2 emissions. TODAYS NUMBER 41 Thats how many months Jacob Chansley spent in prison for his role in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. Chansley, also known as the QAnon Shaman, went viral for his bizarre appearance as he stormed inside the Senate chamber. On Monday, a judge ruled Chansley will get back the items seized around his arrest including a spear he carried inside the building as well as his horned, coyote-tailed headdress. Jacob Chansley inside the Senate Chamber on January 06, 2021. - Win McNamee/Getty Images/File TODAYS QUOTE We urge calm and restraint in the days ahead. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, calling on all parties in Bangladesh to refrain from further violence following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. New video shows crowds of anti-government protesters storming her residence and stealing items after weeks of deadly demonstrations in the South Asian nation. TODAYS WEATHER Check your local forecast here>>> AND FINALLY Why is art so expensive? Ever wondered how art prices are set? What makes one piece of art more expensive than another? Watch this video for all of the answers. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com More than anything, they wanted to see the beach. A day on the sand topped the list on a week-long vacation for the Osterlohs: Sharon Osterloh, her husband, her four daughters, and their partners and children. They considered a museum, maybe, and a zoo for the kids. But getting to the water was a must. We wanted to try something different, Osterloh said. We were hoping to go to the ocean one day. Live Updates: Aerial video shows extent of flooding on Sarasota's Bahia Vista Street In a way, the family from Versailles, Ohio, got what they wished for just not in the way they expected. Instead of going to the beach, Tropical Storm Debbys record-breaking Sunday rainfall brought the water to the Osterlohs doorstep. With power at their vacation home in The Lakes development and rental cars underwater, all 19 of the Osterlohs made their way to the evacuation shelter at Suncoast Technical College on Tuesday morning. They were part of 50 total occupants who sought assistance from the shelter, which provided cots and meals to those impacted by local flooding. By later Tuesday, the number in the shelter was down to 31 residents and 19 pets. County officials said the shelter will remain open until further notice for those displaced from their homes due to the flooding. The shelter, located at 4748 S. Beneva Road, will remain open until further notice, Sarasota County spokesperson Cole Washko said. Hurricane Debby made landfall Monday as a Category 1 hurricane in north Florida, but even as a passing tropical storm in the Gulf, in the Sarasota area, its rainfall has streets flooded, cars submerged and houses without power. Debby caught out-of-towners like the Osterlohs off guard, but longtime locals like Courtney Cummings were equally shocked. Cummings was born in Bradenton and lived there before moving to Sarasota a year ago. He said the flooding, which was several feet deep, was the most severe hed ever seen. The storm really surprised us, Cummings said. Ive been through several hurricanes and never experienced something like this. Sundays rainfall of 11.06 inches recorded at the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport eclipsed the previous high of 10.8 inches set in 1945, per a report from the National Weather Service. The service forecasted that the Sarasota-Manatee area received between 10 and 15 inches of rain total, but peaks in some areas like downtown Sarasota reached almost 20 inches. Around 3 feet of flooding filled Cummings mobile home on File Avenue, right next to Phillipi Creek and just off Bahia Vista Street, by Monday afternoon. Authorities evacuated him, his neighbors and Mia, his emotional support basset hound, by airboat Monday evening. Cummings and his neighbors were part of the 500 reported evacuees Sarasota Police rescued from affected areas. Victor Loera and his neighbors on Bahia Vista Street were also among them. Loera lives across the street from the Saralake mobile home park. He remained inside his house until Monday afternoon, and when he opened the door, he was met with waist-deep water. When we got out, I couldnt believe it was that bad, Loera said. There was no way I was going to be able to stay there. Bahia Vista Street was one of several submerged roads. Aerial footage released by Sarasota County shows the extent of the damage to cars and homes along the street. More: Residents flooded out by Manatee County water release in response to Debby Loeras car was spared, but his neighbors like Laura Chaparro werent so lucky. She, her husband and her two young children saw their cars and house on Bahia Vista completely flooded. The family evacuated with little more than the clothes on their backs, Chapparro said. The cars were underwater, Chaparro said. We left with what we had. For some like the Osterlohs, who are headed to a friend's house in North Port before flying back the Ohio at the end of the week, the ordeal is temporary. But with homes uninhabitable and vehicles underwater, residents like Cummings arent sure whats next. First, hell head back to his apartment and grab his medicine and legal documents. From there, Cummings said, the house hunt is on. Its just try to find and comfortable, safe place to live, Cummings said. Contact Herald-Tribune Growth and Development Reporter Heather Bushman at hbushman@gannett.com Follow her on Twitter @hmb_1013. This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Sarasota County center shelters 50 after historic Debby floods $52K in cash thrown out of BMW during police chase on I-395 in Plainfield PLAINFIELD, Conn. (WTNH) State police are searching for whoever tampered with an ATM at a service plaza off Interstate 395 North and then threw $52,000 in cash out a window when troopers started chasing them. Troopers were initially called at about 11:10 a.m. Monday to the service plaza in Plainfield after hearing that a person was tampering with an ATM and looking into parked cars, according to state police. The suspect then took off in a black BMW SUV that had Pennsylvania plates. State police are searching for the individuals pictured below in relation to a chase on Aug. 5, 2024. (Source: Connecticut State Police) While driving away from troopers, the suspect threw several items out of the SUV, including a backpack that had $52,000 in $20 bills inside, a mobile hotspot and an iPhone. Troopers called off the chase when the BMW sped off. Video footage from earlier in the day shows the BMW driving around the service plaza at about 7:15 a.m. Two males then entered the Exxon at different times. One used a device to take money out of an ATM. Police have provided pictures of the suspects. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) Leaders with Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine announced on Tuesday, Aug. 6 that the organization has received seed funding for the creation of the first HBCU medical school in the Gulf South in New Orleans. Bloomberg Philanthropies awarded the medical program $5 million to support its creation founded by HBCU Xavier University of Louisiana and Ochsner Health. The university, which is known for its strong track record of sending graduates into the medical field, along with the Gulfs leading not-for-profit health system Ochsner Health, announced its partnership last year. Coolinary 2024: Arnauds Restaurant As the only HBCU medical school in the Gulf South, Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine will train physicians who reflect the diversity of the communities they serve and help address a critical healthcare shortage in the region, said President of Xavier University of Louisiana. Dr. Reynold Verret. XOCOM leaders explained the reason for the programs existence was to address health disparities in diverse communities and help fulfill the urgent need for more Black and brown physicians in Louisiana and the nation. Our continued partnership will build the institutional wealth of the historically Black medical schools, boosting their ability to provide the best training possible for current and future students. Ultimately, the benefits of this gift will be realized in the communities where the next generation of Black doctors practice and among patients who receive their care, said Garnesha Ezediaro, who leads Bloomberg Philanthropies Greenwood Initiative. Injured New Orleans firefighter now a teacher and inspiring young minds Bloomberg Philanthropies contribution is a part of its Greenwood Initiative, which is an effort to advance racial wealth equity by addressing systemic underinvestment in Black institution communities. Four Black medical schools currently exist, according to XOCOM officials. They are: Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science Howard University College of Medicine Meharry Medical College Morehouse School of Medicine They are the recipients of $600 million in order to bolster their endowments and strengthen their financial stability and institutional capacity to combat the rising tuition costs, research and operations. We have much more to do to build a country where every person, regardless of race, has equal access to quality health care and where students from all backgrounds can pursue their dreams, said Bloomberg. The school will be located at Benson Tower in the BioDistrict of Downtown New Orleans. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO. The 7 Circle of Kindness Great Backpack Give Back has returned to the Miami Valley, benefitting Crayons to Classrooms. The event will be held today, from 12 pm to 7 pm. There will be 3 drop-off locations where school supplies will be collected: Look for a WHIO-TV, WHIO Radio, or Crayons for Classrooms tent next to: It is not a secret that some teachers end up spending their own money to provide things their students need. Crayons to Classrooms distributes essential supplies to teachers of at-risk students across the Greater Dayton Region to ensure every child has the tools they need to succeed. The organization serves Clark, Darke, Greene, Miami, Montgomery, Preble, and Warren counties. In addition to product donations, Crayons to Classrooms is leveraging an extensive collection of supply chain partners to secure essential school supplies at significantly reduced costs. All collected donations are then distributed at no cost to teachers at the organizations Dayton store. According to Crayons to Classrooms, approximately 86.5% of the students in their service area are identified as low-income, and according to local teachers, 70% of their students lack the supplies they need to succeed throughout the school year. During the 2023-2024 fiscal year, the organization served 2,214 teachers and 54,343 students in 135 schools, including ten childcare centers in the Dayton region, distributing $3,444,963 worth of supplies, setting the kids in the impacted schools up for success. Over the past two years, the annual Great Backpack Give Back donation drive collected over $40,000 worth of school supplies thanks to the support and generosity of our community. The 3rd annual 7 Circle of Kindness Great Backpack Give Back in partnership with Morris Home and Ashley will take place on Tuesday, August 6th, at Walmart Dayton Mall, Walmart Miller Lane, and Walmart Xenia. Our teams will be accepting donations at the drop-off locations between noon and 7 PM. Look for WHIO-TV, WHIO Radio, or Crayons to Classrooms tent in the parking lot! ITEMS NEEDED THE MOST: Markers Pencils Colored Pencils Crayons Childrens Scissors 70ct spiral notebooks Filler Paper Glue Sticks Pocket Folders Construction Paper Crayons to Classrooms Walmart Spark Good wish list can be found HERE. You can also support the organization by shopping its wish list on Amazon. To make a monetary gift, please visit https://www.crayonstoclassrooms.org/donate/. If you are willing to donate your time as a volunteer, host a fundraiser benefitting the organization, or get involved in any other way, please contact Crayons to Classrooms directly. 7 Circle of Kindness is a WHIO-TV initiative serving communities with the seven pillars that focus on things important to our viewers, including education, peace, environment, diversity, and more. 7 Circle of Kindness is sponsored by Morris Home & Ashley. Seven personnel were injured at Al Asad Air Base in Iraq after a pair of rockets hit the U.S. military base Monday afternoon, Pentagon officials said Tuesday. A defense official told Military.com in an email that the injured included five U.S. service members and two U.S. contractors, with two having been evacuated for further care. All seven were in stable condition, according to the official, who did not specify the occupation of the two who were airlifted for care. The attack comes as tensions in the region simmer following a pair of Israeli strikes that killed two top Iranian-backed militia leaders in Iran and Lebanon, prompting Iranian threats of retaliation. Read Next: Tim Walz, Who Spent Decades as an Enlisted Soldier, Brings Years of Work on Vets Issues to Dem Ticket Late on Monday, officials confirmed the rocket attack but were able to offer only "initial indications" that "several U.S. personnel were injured." While officials have not said who they believe is responsible for this strike, the Pentagon has consistently attributed attacks on Al Asad and other bases in the region to Iranian-supported groups and militias. Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and Syria had taken to regularly attacking U.S. bases in the region shortly after Israel began its military operation in Gaza in response to a brutal and surprise strike by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023, against Israel that left more than a thousand Israelis dead and hundreds taken hostage. Between October 2023 and late January 2024, the Pentagon said that American forces in Iraq and Syria endured around 165 attacks that injured at least 80 service members. In response, the Pentagon conducted several airstrikes on various Iranian-backed militia locations in Syria and Iraq. In late January, an attack on a U.S. base in Jordan killed three Army reservists and prompted a massive retaliatory strike by U.S. forces that hit more than 85 targets in seven locations. Since then, attacks on U.S. bases had largely subsided. "We did see a slowdown of attacks," Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh told reporters last week, before adding that "we saw one in April and then, again, we saw a long period of pause, and that's what we want to continue to see." In response to the escalations in hostilities, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Friday redirected the USS Abraham Lincoln and its associated strike group to the region, and Navy officials said that the service had ordered two destroyers to the Red Sea and closer to Israel on Monday. That came a day after Austin told Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant he backed Israel's right to self-defense against "threats from Iran, Lebanese Hizballah [sic], Houthis, and other Iranian-backed terrorist groups." In an emailed statement issued Friday, the Pentagon also announced that it was "taking steps to increase our readiness to deploy additional land-based ballistic missile defense" and that Austin "has also ordered the deployment of an additional fighter squadron to the Middle East, reinforcing our defensive air support capability." However, officials would not offer any details on what units were taking part, and Singh said Friday that she was "not aware that any units have been put on [prepare to deploy] orders." Editor's note: This story has been updated to clarify that the three troops killed in late January were Army reservists. Related: As Tensions Simmer in the Middle East, Pentagon Redirects Carrier Strike Group to the Area ST. GEORGE, Staten Island (PIX11) After a group of men accused of playing key roles in planning and carrying out the 9/11 attacks had a plea deal involving them dropped, some victims family members are now calling for the case against them to go to trial quickly, and for the men to face the death penalty. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis invited some 9/11 family members to join her at the Staten Island Sept. 11 Memorial to say how they feel about the case going forward. They were also joined by leaders of the unions for different first responders who lost their lives in the attacks, as well as from World Trade Center-related illnesses in the years since 9/11. More Manhattan News Family members said that they want accused 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and at least two other alleged attackers to go before a judge in federal court in Lower Manhattan, as theyd been scheduled to do since 2018. I want to see these people, said Melissa Pullis, whose husband, Eddie Pullis, was killed in the attack. I want to see their faces in the courtroom, she continued. Thats what I want. I want them to see us. Pullis was among the participants in the midday Monday event, in which there were repeated calls for the following steps to happen swiftly against the defendants. Thomas Smith, a firefighter, lost his father in the terror attacks and said that he has 9/11-related health issues himself. The suffering continues, he said, and there has to be some kind of justice and the truth about what happened to this country 23 years ago. It was the first major news conference about the 9/11 case since the attackers plea agreement was scrapped last Friday. More Local News In the plea deal, the accused 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Muhammed and two alleged accomplices being held at Guantanamo agreed to plead guilty in exchange for not getting the death penalty and not being put into solitary confinement during a lifelong prison sentence. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin struck that down. We want them to set a date, go to trial, and seek the death penalty, Malliotakis said. Leaders of various unions, including those representing the FDNY, Port Authority Police, NYPD, and EMS, said they represent tens of thousands of family members. Our nation owes it to each and every surviving family member to seek the maximum penalty for their crimes, said Frank Conti, the president of the Port Authority Police Police Benevolent Association. Beth Murphy, a 9/11 widow, agreed and drove home the point. I wont back down, she said from the podium. She and other 9/11 family members said that they needed to publicly call for the trial to continue to get justice for their loved ones. Amanda Alioto, whose father, Thomas Alioto, was killed in the terror attacks, held up his photo at the event. Afterward, she said that publicly calling for a death penalty trial was simply something that she had to do. The only possible outcome for the soulless savages that they were is the death penalty, she said. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. TEHRAN, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Iran and Hungary on Monday exchanged views on recent escalations in West Asia and the assassination of Hamas Politburo Chief Ismail Haniyeh, according to a statement released by the Iranian Foreign Ministry. In a phone call, Iran's Caretaker Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani and Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto discussed the regional developments resulting from Israel's actions, said the statement. By assassinating Haniyeh, Israel violated Iran's security, territorial integrity, sovereignty and regional peace and stability, Bagheri Kani said, adding its action was also a threat to international peace and security. The Hungarian minister, for his part, expressed great concern over what was taking place in Lebanon and the escalating tension in the region. The international community should implement any measure that could prevent the escalation of tension and crisis, "as these tensions can be considered as a threat against Europe," said Szijjarto. Haniyeh, who had been invited to attend Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday, was killed along with his bodyguard early Wednesday when their residence in Tehran was hit, according to Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, which said Israel had carried out the "terrorist attack" and vowed "a harsh and painful response." Nine people, including six children, are dead after an SUV turned into a canal on Monday night in Palm Beach County Florida (WPTV) Nine people are dead, including six children after a driver crashed an SUV into a canal in Florida on Monday. Four people were pronounced dead at the scene while six were transported to a nearby hospital. Five of the people died at the hospital. There is only one survivor, who officials identified as a 26-year-old male with serious injuries. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families during this heartbreaking incident, the Palm Beach County Sheriffs Officesheriffs office said in a statement. The car had been traveling westbound on Hatton Highway in Belle Glade, Florida, about 70 miles from Miami, around 7:30pm, according to NBC News. The driver did not properly make a left turn and came onto a grass shoulder before hitting a guardrail and turning into the canal. Nine people, including six children, are dead after an SUV turned into a canal on Monday night in Palm Beach County Florida (WPTV) Officials found the 2023 Ford Explorer partially submerged and upside down in the canal. Four people were then taken to the hospital with ground units and two were taken via Trauma Hawk helicopter. Divers searched the canal to ensure there were no remaining victims. Six of the people killed were between the ages of one and 14. Palm Beach County saw scattered rain storms on Monday night but its not clear what caused the crash. Speaking to reporters after the incident, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Captain Tom Reyes said: Ive been with the department for 20 years and this is one of the most difficult scenes Ive been on. The National Transportation Safety Board announced that it is working with the Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office to conduct a safety investigation into the crash. For nearly 50 years in the United States, the U.S. Supreme Court asserted that the U.S. Constitution protected the right to access abortion under Roe v. Wade. But on June 24, 2022, the Dobbs decision changed that and allowed states to make their own laws about who can have access to abortion care, and under what circumstances. Since then, 14 states have banned abortion, and six states have introduced a gestational limit between six to 12 weeks, according to KFF. As Salon has reported, the consequences are harrowing. Medical school graduates are avoiding states with abortion bans exacerbating the maternal healthcare crisis. Pregnant women are being forced to cross state lines to terminate nonviable pregnancies. This week, Amnesty International USA released a report detailing how the aftermath of Dobbs is a human rights crisis. These types of bans and policies can impact a variety of human rights, Jasmeet Sidhu, a senior researcher with Amnesty International USA, told Salon in a phone interview. Including the right to life, the right to access healthcare, the right to privacy in some situations where abortion is being criminalized, and the right to be free from torture and other degrading treatment, The report centered on the stories of patients and medical providers. From interviewing people in states with the strictest laws to researching court cases and media reports, Amnesty researchers found that abortion restrictions have led to a terrifying landscape for pregnant people in America. It was incredibly horrifying as a woman and a mother as well of two girls to learn about some of the circumstances in which people have been placed because of these restrictions, Sidhu told Salon, adding that it was hard to hear from doctors about how theyre being forced to turn away patients and provide evidence-based care. As we detailed in the report, there are less and less doctors that want to go to states where they're going to be criminalized for providing abortion care. In the report, Amnesty says that by failing to ensure that abortion care is accessible and affordable, the United States is failing to comply with international human rights laws and standards to ensure pregnant individuals have equal access to abortion information services. Want more health and science stories in your inbox? Subscribe to Salon's weekly newsletter Lab Notes. Specifically, forcing a pregnant person to carry an unwanted pregnancy is a human rights violation. In one story in the report, a Black 12-year-old named Kim (whose name had been changed for privacy purposes), was raped in Mississippi. Once her mother found out she was pregnant, she filed a complaint with the police department. While there is technically an exception to Mississippis abortion ban which restricts all abortions, except in cases of rape or incest or the save the life of the pregnant person Kim became a mother. Abortion remains difficult to access in these circumstances because even if someone files a police report, there are no clear guidelines on how to qualify for legal abortion in cases of sexual violence, the report explained. Kims mother did not even know that an exception for rape existed under the criminal abortion law. Exceptions typically have a multitude of very specific requirements, Sidhu told Salon. These laws are pretty hard to navigate, even for someone like myself, who's a lawyer, to be able to understand what the guidelines are, Sidhu said. In that particular circumstance, the mother did not realize that there was an exception for rape, but even if she had, to be able to kind of navigate that, and take a child to law enforcement and get a physical exam, it is very complicated. Sheila, another woman whose name was changed for privacy, became pregnant in Mississippi when her hormonal birth control implant expired and she couldnt afford a new one. Since the Jackson Womens Health Organization in Mississippi the month after the Dobbs decision, she couldnt afford to travel out of state to obtain care, either. She was forced to have the child without being able to work and pay for childcare. The idea behind human rights are that they should be available, equally and universally, to everyone, Sidhu said. If I live in rural Oklahoma and I can't access an abortion unless I travel hundreds of miles, then I'm facing an undue burden compared to somebody who maybe, for example, lives in Washington, D.C. The report emphasized that there is a disparate impact of abortion restrictions, highlighting how systemic and structural racism prohibit people from equal access to health insurance. That results in a lack of access to contraception, prenatal care and abortion care. For Black women, these bans represent a denial of abortion care to a constituency who, due to longstanding discrimination and ongoing challenges accessing comprehensive reproductive healthcare, seek abortions at a higher rate than any other group, and are already suffering far higher rates of maternal mortality, the report states. For Indigenous women, Dobbs adds even more restrictions to what many had long experienced as effective bans on abortion due to pre-existing federal government restrictions on the Indian Health Service, on which many of them depend for their health care. The report urged the U.S. to create a federal protection for abortion, among other suggestions. I think that's pretty clear, that's the number one thing that needs to happen, Sidhu said. So that everyone, everywhere, has the same right to be able to access abortion care. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KEL) An effort to get the abortion issue before South Dakota voters in November is back in the hands of a circuit court judge. Last week, the South Dakota Supreme Court ruled that a circuit judge must further consider whether a proposed constitutional amendment to allow abortions should be on the general election ballot this fall. Tea man charged with murder On Friday, the high court overruled Circuit Judge John Pekass July 15th decision to dismiss the case and ordered that the matter be returned to his court. The high courts action means Life Defense Fund, co-chaired by Leslee Unruh of Sioux Falls and Republican Representative Jon Hansen of Dell Rapids, can continue its fight to keep the measure off the ballot. In a statement, Unruh wrote, We are thrilled the Supreme Court expedited our case and rightly sent it back to the state court, where our case can be heard and thoroughly examined. We reached out to both sides, The Life Defense Fund and Dakotans for Health. Rapid City Attorney Sarah Frankenstein, who represents the Life Defense Fund, says they were hoping to get a decision before August 13th. I dont know if it is realistic anymore to have the case resolved by August 13th, but that would have been the ideal, said Frankenstein. August 13 is the day on the election calendar that the Secretary of State has to certify copies of all ballot questions to the county auditors; each county auditor has to order their ballots. they need to know which statewide ballot questions need to go on those ballots. Frankenstein says they are exploring options even if the proposed amendment is on the ballot, which today looks very likely. There are ways to still have measures disqualified even though it is printed on the ballot. If you will remember back when Amendment A was litigated, the marijuana measure. It had gone to a vote, had passed, and still, the court disqualified it, after the fact, said Frankenstein. So there are certainly options, even though the ideal date of August 13th is probably unrealistic at this point. In the lawsuit, the group contends petition gatherers for Dakotans of Health broke the law while gathering petition signaturesan allegation they have flatly denied. Frankenstein says several legal developments are in the works, and we can expect more answers in the next few weeks. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. Abortion rights measure likely to appear on ballot, but lawsuit could affect election results Life Defense Fund attorney Sara Frankenstein readies her case against against Dakotans for Health's abortion rights ballot measure in Sioux Falls on July 15, 2024. (Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight) Life Defense Fund attorney Sara Frankenstein readies her case against against Dakotans for Health's abortion rights ballot measure in Sioux Falls on July 15, 2024. (Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight) South Dakotans will likely get to vote on abortion rights in November, but the recent reinstatement of a legal challenge by abortion opponents could upend the results either before or after the election. Life Defense Fund sued Dakotans for Health earlier this year. The former is accusing the latters petition circulators of a range of illegal tactics in their effort to secure the signatures needed to put a measure on the ballot that would enshrine abortion rights in the South Dakota Constitution. Circuit Judge John Pekas dismissed the anti-abortion groups case last month, saying the lawsuit should have but did not name Secretary of State Monae Johnson as a defendant. Pekas did not rule on the merits of the petition circulation arguments. But the state Supreme Court overruled Pekas on Friday and sent the case back to Minnehaha County. Now, Life Defense Fund has moved to add Johnson as a defendant. If Pekas approves the addition, Johnson will have up to 30 days to respond. Like any elected official in South Dakota, she would be defended in court by Attorney General Marty Jackley. Jackley spokesman Tony Mangan confirmed that the Office of the Attorney General would only represent Johnson in a limited capacity. State law on disputes over petition signatures includes this clause on the attorney generals role: Any appearance by the attorney general at a challenge under this section shall be limited to the process of signature verification by the Office of the Secretary of State. Life Defense Funds arguments go beyond that, however. The group says unlawful actions during the petition-gathering process should nullify a vote to pass the amendment. The addition of a new defendant and the legal arguments surrounding such assertions are unlikely to be resolved before Aug. 13. Thats the deadline for the secretary of state to certify copies of all ballot questions to county auditors. Since Johnson has already certified the abortion amendment to appear on the ballot, the amendment will likely be there unless the case is resolved in the Life Defense Funds favor in less than six business days. I dont know if it is realistic anymore to have the case resolved by August 13th, but that would have been the ideal, said Sara Frankenstein, a Rapid City lawyer who represents Life Defense Fund. Frankenstein also said there is precedent for legal challenges overturning election results. She pointed to 2020s Amendment A, which legalized both recreational and medical marijuana. A circuit judge overturned the amendment after the election because, by addressing medical cannabis and recreational cannabis, its verbiage violated the state Constitutions single-subject rule. The state Supreme Court affirmed that decision. Separately in 2020, voters passed an initiated measure to legalize medical marijuana, setting the stage for the medical marijuana program now operating in the state. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Life Defense Funds abortion measure lawsuit alleges Dakotans For Healths petition circulators left petition sheets unattended and misled signers about the amendments impact on abortions after the first trimester, among other accusations. Another set of allegations revolves around a 2018 state law that sought to prevent out-of-state residents from circulating ballot petitions in South Dakota. Among other things, the law required petition circulators to file a sworn statement and documentation to prove their residency. Dakotans for Health says the 2018 law was invalidated by a series of federal court decisions that struck down that laws restrictions. Dakotans for Health has requested an injunction in federal court that would stop the Life Defense Funds lawsuit in state court. A federal judge last month declined to intervene at this time, saying she would wait for further state court proceedings. Johnson validated the abortion-rights measure in May by using a sample to estimate that 46,098 signatures were from registered South Dakota voters, surpassing the required 35,017. The lawsuit argues that Johnson is obligated to invalidate what it describes as seven classes of objectionable signatures, ranging from residency violations to outright fraud, and that there are enough such signatures to disqualify the measure from the ballot. Rick Weiland of Dakotans for Health said in a text message that the latest moves in the case represent the abortion opponents ongoing and desperate effort to deny the people of our state their right to vote on this matter because the voters think South Dakotas abortion ban is too radical. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX ACCESS Oklahoma opponents say water supplies at risk with construction of new toll roads Blue Creek feeds into Lake Thunderbird and is a major tributary in the Lake Thunderbird watershed. For the past 44 years, Jimmy Hodges has enjoyed fresh water from the aquifer that runs under his rural Norman property just north of Lake Thunderbird, but now hes wondering whether that will come to an end with upcoming construction of a new turnpike. Right now, I dont even need to have any softener, Hodges said. I can drink it right out of the ground. How can they build a highway across my aquifer and what is that going to do to my groundwater? Hodges was one of dozens of Norman-area residents who met earlier this year with their mayor, Larry Heikkila, after opponents to the ACCESS Oklahoma toll road expansions lost key legal fights to stop construction of the new toll roads. I dont know exactly how to do a guarantee on anything, Heikkila said. I'm not a groundwater guy. If you look at our great-grandchildren, what are they going to have, what legacy are we leaving them? More: Turnpike officials evaluating whether they are subject to new Landowners Bill of Rights The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) insists any construction will involve permitting and oversight of environmental impact resulting from construction and eventual traffic carried by the new toll roads. But opponents say the turnpike authoritys history shows such assurances cant be trusted. Oklahomans for Responsible Transportation, formerly known as Pike Off Oklahoma, say theyre moving into the next chapter and seeking to stop construction by showing how turnpike officials have historically ignored environmental complaints and issues raised by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ). Lake Thunderbird is a popular recreational and nature spot for Norman-area residents. Records obtained by Oklahomans for Responsible Transportation list an array of environmental citations and concerns dating back a half century on turnpike construction projects. Oklahoma Turnpike Authority has several formal complaints recorded over past several decades Examples cited by Amy Cerato, who obtained information about the violations through the states Open Records Act, reported the following examples of what she says is the turnpike authority ignoring environmental requirements. A formal letter of complaint about Cimarron Turnpike construction in 1992 and 1994 states 2 months unlawful discharge of sewage waste, no EPA permit, no reasonable monitoring of discharge. The ODEQ shows no resolution of this complaint. A Memo of Agreement (MOA) between the ODEQ and OTA was filed in May of 1994 to set out a course of action to rectify what is described as an illegal discharge of sewage by turnpike contractors to the waters of the Washita River near Chickasha along the H.E. Bailey Turnpike. The ODEQ sent the OTA a letter stating that the OTA had only completed one of the four tasks agreed upon in the agencies agreement. The records showed no resolution of the violation. A 1996 complaint concerning the Will Rogers Turnpike describes burying 55 gal drums of dried (toxic) paint at the Vinita facility. The records cited included an ODEQ investigator writing Over the years, the OTA has filled most of the low area with dirt, concrete, asphalt, wood, and various solid wastes from their operation. During a previous complaint investigation, I requested the OTA stop placing any type of solid waste in the site. In reviewing DEQ records Im appalled to find that they so blatantly refuse to abide by the rules and regulations of our states Department of Environmental Quality, Cerato said. I found violation after violation in the files at DEQ. Lisa Shearer-Salim, spokeswoman for the turnpike authority, responded the turnpike authority has an open dialog with environmental officials, and their construction process includes a sign-off by the state DEQ of their construction-related permits at the end of a project. ODEQ will not close out a project until it has been completed to their satisfaction and the permit requirements are met, Shearer-Salim said. The construction contractors pull these permits, not the authority. OTA ensures through its oversight that conditions are met by the contractors. A deer feeds beside the road at Lake Thunderbird in Norman. Erin Hatfield, spokeswoman for the state DEQ, told The Oklahoman her agency has four active turnpike projects with issued stormwater permits. She said the agency has not received any complaints on the toll road projects and is not working any enforcement actions with the turnpike authority or its contractors. Hatfield added that the agency has no current projects still open due to permit requirements not being met, and three complaints filed since 2019 were all resolved. 'They're not playing by the rules' Members of Oklahomans for Responsible Transportation say past actions show turnpike officials have managed to ignore concerns raised by state and federal environmental regulators. Tassie Hirschfeld, one of those fighting ACCESS Oklahoma, provided links to 1990 Tulsa World stories that reported how people saw their complaints about the handling of radioactive materials during construction of the Creek Turnpike ultimately ignored. The Creek turnpike was routed over fragile wetlands, Hirschfeld said. This was initially opposed by the EPA, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the US Army Corps of Engineers. The OTA complained the denial of permits led to expensive delays and began work on the highway near Jenks without the required permits. One resident at the time told the Tulsa World, theyre not playing by the rules as she watched bulldozers rip out trees and tear up the floodplain. One construction contractor alleged he was told to bury radioactive pipe along the turnpike route. Other radioactive materials unearthed during construction were allegedly taken to a public landfill. Eventually federal agencies relented and the construction continued, Hirschfeld said. More: Does the turnpike authority have an unfair advantage over homeowners? This family fought and won contested_tolls_ok24 Shearer-Salim noted the concerns cited by Oklahomans for Responsible Transportation all date back about 30 years or longer. Without all the facts, how can one conclude that OTA is blatantly refusing to abide by ODEQ regulations? Shearer-Salim said. Do more than 30-year-old allegations adequately foretell how the authority will act today? Environmental concerns at the federal level did stop design work on the south extension of the Kickapoo Turnpike. The Bureau of Land Reclamation rejected a turnpike authority application in January 2023 to build a new toll road segment through tributaries of Lake Thunderbird. Citing concerns about the impact to protected species in the area, sound and light pollution, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation in January denied an application along the route of the south extension because the project did not meet the lands intended purposes. Shearer-Salim confirmed design work remains on hold but that engineers are set to restart studies on drawing up a new route in 2025. Work continues on the east-west connector with construction set to start in late 2025. The main section of the new toll road between Interstate 35 and Interstate 44 is scheduled to open in late 2027. That timetable prompted concerns among some Norman City Council members who met on Tuesday to discuss the toll road impact on flood plains, watershed and Lake Thunderbird. Environmental studies are currently underway that include a look at the areas water supply, wetlands, threatened and endangered species and historic and archaeological resources. Scott Sturtz, current interim director of public works, told council members that no permits are required from Norman for the east-west connector because the road will be built on state property. Sturtz told the council the project will include construction of a 7,000-foot-long bridge, the longest in the state, to cross the flood plain. Studies on the potential environmental impact are ongoing, he said, adding wetlands are proven to play an important role in removing pollutants from water supplies. They are probably going to disturb some wetlands coming through here that's just a fact, Sturtz said. There are wetlands in this corridor. They will have to do mitigation with the Corps of Engineers under their permit. Council members raised several concerns about the road, including the trash and pollution run-off resulting from construction and traffic. Theres obviously concern about construction and sediment coming into our streams and impacting Lake Thunderbird, Sturtz said. We absolutely cannot have that. We dont want that on any project. Sturtz said the city needs to make sure that all protocols and best practices are in place and that design and construction are carefully inspected. We have heard they have done a good job of this on other turnpike sections, Sturtz said. They have a third party watching this that is not in house. And us watching it in addition to all of that lessens the risk. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: ACCESS Oklahoma construction triggers environmental concerns in Norman Joshua Hunsucker appeared in Gaston County Superior Court at the Gaston County Courthouse Tuesday morning, Sept. 22, 2020. He is charged with first-degree murder in the September 2018 death of his wife, Stacy Robinson Hunsucker. A man accused of poisoning his wife with eye drops, setting a helicopter on fire, and later staging his own kidnapping, is now accused of engaging in a "pattern of harassment" toward witnesses in the case, poisoning his own daughter in an attempt to implicate other people, according to a court filing written by prosecutors. Joshua Lee Hunsucker, 39, was indicted Monday on four counts of intimidation of a witness and four counts of obstruction of justice. Hunsucker was accused of killing his wife, Stacy Hunsucker, 32, in September of 2018, with eye drops and having her immediately cremated before filing for her $250,000 life insurance policy, according to a request to revoke Hunsucker's bond prepared by District Attorney Travis Page and Special Prosecutor R. Jordan Green. Prior to Stacy Hunsucker's death, Hunsucker reportedly told two former co-workers that if he ever killed someone, he would do so using eye drops, Page and Green wrote. Hunsucker was charged with first-degree murder, obtaining property by false pretense and insurance fraud in his wife's death. In 2021, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police charged Hunsucker with arson related to a November 2019 fire that occurred aboard a medical helicopter. Hunsucker's bond was initially set at $1.5 million, and he posted that bond on Dec. 24, 2019, and has remained out of jail. The latest charges point to Hunsucker's alleged behavior while out of jail on bond. According to the filing prepared by Page, police believe Hunsucker staged his own kidnapping in order to shift responsibility for his wife's death onto John Robinson, a witness in the case. In February 2023, Hunsucker told police that he'd been kidnapped, pistol whipped, zip-tied and injected with an unknown substance, and he blamed Robinson for the attack. But that accusation was just one of multiple attempts to implicate Robinson in his wife's death, Page and Green wrote. On Feb. 24, 2023, Hunsucker is accused of poisoning his then 10-year-old daughter, putting the same substance that killed his wife into a beverage bottle that his daughter drank from. Tests also found a different drug in his daughter's system, one not approved for children, Page and Green wrote That drug was found in the back of Hunsucker's truck when police searched it after he reported he was kidnapped. His daughter suffered from low blood pressure, low heart rate, extreme exhaustion and constricted blood vessels. She was hospitalized at CaroMont Regional Medical Center and Levine Children's Hospital. Police believe that the child was poisoned in an attempt to implicate John and Susie Robinson in the death of Hunsucker's wife and remove the couple from the lives of his daughter, Page and Green wrote. Hunsucker also is accused of continually harassing the Robinsons while out of jail on bond. He is accused of routinely videoing them and photographing them at his daughter's lacrosse practices, sending a package to their home demanding they dismiss the case, making vulgar gestures at them in public places, following John Robinson to his vehicle, parking in their church parking lot while they attended services and making vulgar gestures at them, routinely driving by their home, and suggesting that he knew when they changed their routine, Page and Green wrote, "The state believes that the defendant's dangerous actions will continue to escalate," Page and Green wrote. "The state has great concern for the safety of (Hunsuckers' children) and Mr. and Mrs. Robinson." Page and Green asked that Hunsucker's bond be revoked. Stacy Hunsucker This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Accused killer now charged with harassing witnesses in case MidAmerican Energy and the city of Adel are asking some residents to seek shelter indoors immediately as there is a reported gas leak in the area. City officials are asking those who live on Southbridge Drive or Roebling Road south of Meadow Drive to stay inside and keep their doors and windows closed. The area is near St. John's Catholic Church. Contractors working in the area hit a small 2-inch gas line, a MidAmerican Energy spokesperson told the Register. Crews are on the scene and working to repair the leak. No other shelter-in-place warnings issued for Dallas County, Iowa The gas leak may have triggered a shelter-in-place alert that was displayed for all of Dallas County on local radios, TV and cellphones. Dispatchers with the sheriff's office reported no other issues at this time. This story is developing, come back for more updates. Jose Mendiola is a breaking news reporter for the Register. Reach him at jmendiola@dmreg.com. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Adel gas leak prompts shelter-in-place warning for Dallas County Photos have emerged showing the extent of the destruction at Morozovsk Air Base, in Russias Rostov region, after it was struck by Ukrainian forces at the weekend. Photos have emerged showing the extent of the destruction at Morozovsk Air Base, in Russias Rostov region after it was struck by Ukrainian forces late last week, an incident you can read more about here. Earlier satellite imagery had confirmed that the base had been hit, and a secure storage site in its northwest corner was badly damaged. Now we can see that, as the Ukrainian Armed Forces General Staff had suggested, the airfields weapons storage facility was indeed obliterated. The series of photos showing the aftermath of the attack on Morozovsk appeared on social media, presumably leaked by one or more of the personnel at the air base or those involved in the salvage effort afterward. Another view of the remains of the weapons storage area at Morozovsk. via X The scale of the damage is significant, with almost the complete destruction of the secure weapons storage area, with none of the previous structures left standing. What is left behind are remnants of air-launched munitions and other stores carried by Russian tactical jets primarily the dozens of Su-34 Fullback strike aircraft, but also other forward-deployed Flanker-series fighters that operate from the airbase. The significant quantity of munitions stored here also appears to have led to major secondary explosions elsewhere on the base. via Ukrainian Ministry of Defense via Ukrainian Ministry of Defense In particular, there are examples of the KAB-1500L laser-guided bomb, a weapon that is far from new, but which is only rarely seen. Fitted with a semi-active laser seeker, the KAB-1500L which is available in a number of subvariants is a notably heavy precision-guided weapon, with a nominal weight of over 3,300 pounds. These KAB-1500L laser-guided bombs are among the examples that did not cook off as a result of the attack. via X Unguided munitions include examples of the standard FAB-500M-62 1,100-pound high-explosive bomb and the ODAB-500 fuel-air explosive (thermobaric) bomb. These freefall weapons have been very widely employed by Russia in its war in Ukraine and both have also been adapted with precision-guidance/glide kits for improved accuracy and extended range. FAB-500M-62 freefall bombs. via X It also appears that at least some of the remnants of aircraft bombs are examples of the P-50 series of training stores, rather than weapons for frontline use. Chief among these is the P-50T, which is used for crew training and generating both a light signal and smoke on impact. Photo of a destroyed Russian aviation ammunition storage on the Morozovsk airbase. This picture is impressive, but most of the bombs in it are P-50T (-50) old Soviet training bombs filled with easily ignitable smoke components. pic.twitter.com/Bfgnt0iBL2 Frederic Gras (@fredgrs) August 6, 2024 Visible in this photo of the aftermath are several cluster bomb units. via X There is also evidence of defensive stores used by the Su-34 (and other aircraft types), namely the R-73 (AA-11 Archer) heat-seeking air-to-air missile and the Khibiny wingtip-mounted electronic warfare pod, which you can read more about here. Destroyed examples of the R-73 (AA-11 Archer) heat-seeking air-to-air missile. via X A Khibiny wingtip-mounted electronic countermeasures pod. via X The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense claims that a Su-34 was also destroyed in the attack, with another damaged, pointing to satellite imagery showing a different area of the vase as confirmation of this, although the limited resolution means this cant be confirmed. via Ukrainian Ministry of Defense via Ukrainian Ministry of Defense The attack on Morozovsk Air Base, which is understood to have involved long-range one-way attack drones, was announced by the Ukrainian Armed Forces General Staff on Saturday. Hits were recorded in warehouses with ammunition, where, in particular, guided aerial bombs were stored, the General Staff said on Telegram. Information regarding the destruction of air defense equipment and enemy aviation equipment is being clarified. The General Staff said the attack was carried out by the Ukrainian Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR), the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), and the Ukrainian Armed Forces. In our previous coverage of the strike, we examined satellite images that showed signs of extensive grass fires as well as damage around the weapons storage area. Before-and-after satellite images of Morozovsk Air Base in Russia show damage after a Ukrainian attack. PHOTOS 2024 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION Located around 150 miles from the front lines, Morozovsk Air Base has come under repeated attack by Ukrainian drones, with at least three such operations mounted in the last three months. The latest attack on Morozovsk continues Ukraines campaign of drone strikes as well as sabotage activities directed against different Russian air bases, especially those that are playing a major role in the Ukrainian war. Big explosions at the Russian military airfield in Morozovsk, Rostov region. 270km from the frontline. Russian Su-34s are based in Morozovsk. pic.twitter.com/P9NX3HR7xc Special Kherson Cat (@bayraktar_1love) August 3, 2024 The secondary explosions coming from the Morozovsk airfield and seen on several videos are substantial. This is heavy ordnance cooking off. It will be interesting to study the satellite pictures. pic.twitter.com/eGTN1719Pr (((Tendar))) (@Tendar) August 3, 2024 For a long time now, attacks of this kind have been prioritized by Ukraine as a way of hitting back against Moscow as it maintains its own missile, drone, and airstrike offensive against Ukraine. Clearly, the weapons storage facility at Morozovsk represented a very valuable target for Ukraine, not only depriving Russia of vital air-launched ordnance but also triggering secondary explosions that left considerable destruction in their wake. UPDATE: New video showing the Su-34 that was destroyed in the attack and another angle of the initial fireball when the storage facility went up: A huge explosion and fireball from the weapon and fuel storage at the Mozorovsk airfield. Newly acquired footage of an incident that happened on saturday. pic.twitter.com/Cj6zx3NavG Seveer of the 95th rifles (@Seveerity) August 6, 2024 Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com DES MOINES, Iowa Just last week, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds and Attorney General Brenna Bird announced that the state will provide $5.5 million in one-time bridge funding to keep the services available to crime victims up to par. Earlier this year the federal government cut $700 million from the Victims of Crime Act, which added up to a 42% reduction in funding. The state is using federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act to make up for that loss. Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird discussed the decision with WHO 13 News. I really appreciate that Governor Reynolds decided to use the funds to make sure that every victim in Iowa gets these services because people are not prepared to be a victim of crime and to have such a huge cut would mean some parts of the state wouldnt be served or that certain crime victims wouldnt be served, said Bird, (R). And all throughout the state there are nonprofit agencies that are so thankful that she made that decision. I think it was a great use of those APRA funds. Crime victims will continue to have access to medical and mental health care, temporary housing, wages lost and help in the courtroom. Cleanup underway after train derailed near Marshalltown So, for example, for a domestic violence victim, this is the funding that can help them pay for counseling, said Bird. So they can get counseling, it will help them go to court when theyre subpoenaed for hearings or other types of meetings, depositions for trial, it can give them gas money for that. If theres time off from work they have to take and their employer doesnt pay them for it because they had to be in court to testify as a victim it can help them with that. The funding will also help the Iowa Victim Service Call Center take calls 24/7 from crime victims, connecting them to resources they might need. That number is 1-800-770-1650. Bird mentioned the bipartisan push of attorney generals across the country asking the federal government to revert course. The cuts would have taken effect in October, so these nonprofit organizations have an answer for the next year. But after that it will be up to the state again to decide how to bridge that loss of funds. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. The nation's top law enforcement officer was in Milwaukee on Tuesday, citing a national drop in violent crime that includes the city of Milwaukee and adding the U. S. Attorney General's Office will "use every tool in its disposal" to prosecute those who profit from fentanyl. U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland spoke briefly with reporters before meeting privately with a panel of officials that included Gregory J. Haanstad, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin and Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman. Garland did not take questions from the press. Garland, a one-time U.S. Supreme Court nominee, said the U.S. Attorney's Office has set up an anti-violent crime strategy in Wisconsin and across the country to arrest violent felons, to disrupt violent drug trafficking, and to prosecute the repeat offenders who are most responsible for driving violent crime. The takeaways from Merrick Garland's visit The work so far is paying off, the attorney general said: The Milwaukee Police Department recently released data indicating a 10% drop in overall crime, and a 39% drop in homicides in the first quarter of this year when compared with the first three months of 2023. The nation saw one of its lowest violent crime rates in 50 years, which included the largest decline in homicides in 50 years. Data from the first six months of this year appear to show more declines in violent crime across 40 American cities, including Milwaukee. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, using MPD data, found local crime was down midway through the year. The news organization's look at the data came on the heels of reports that GOP presidential front runner Donald Trump referred to Milwaukee as a "horrible city" just days before it was to host the Republican National Conference. The Journal Sentinel found while there were fewer vehicle thefts, aggravated assaults and rapes reported through the first six months of 2024, there was an increase in carjackings., and that domestic violence-related deaths remained "persistently high." Through Sunday, there have been 83 homicide victims in Milwaukee, down about 15% compared to this time last year and down 38% compared to 2022, Milwaukee Police Department data shows. Nonfatal shootings also are down 25% from last year and down 19% from 2022. Those figures are still higher than 2019, the last full year of data prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fentanyl abuse continues to be a problem in Wisconsin According to a Wisconsin Department of Health Services report, fentanyl is being found in all types of drugs, including stimulants, such as cocaine and methamphetamine, as well as opioids. It's being pressed into pills and mixed into other drugs; a person may think they are using one substance, but they are instead using a substance mixed with fentanyl. Synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl, were identified in 91% of opioid overdose deaths and 73% of all drug overdose deaths in 2023, the report said. Provisional data by the state health department shows the number of fentanyl overdose deaths in Wisconsin increased from 651 to 1,459, or 124%, from 2019 to 2022. "Fentanyl is the deadliest drug this country has ever faced," Garland said. "This office will continue to use every tool at its disposal to go after all those who profit from this deadly epidemic." This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: During Milwaukee visit, AG Garland applauds efforts to reduce crime FRANKFURT, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- China has demonstrated its determination to further strengthen reforms and opening-up during the recently-concluded third plenary session of the 20th Communist Party of China Central Committee, a German economic expert has said recently. The Chinese economy is currently at a crucial point in its development, and the global economy is also at a crossroads, Prof. Horst Loechel from the Sino-German Center at Frankfurt School of Finance & Management told Xinhua. Against this backdrop, the plenary session "not only developed plans to address short-term challenges to maintain a stable level of economic growth but also introduced medium- and long-term plans for the next ten years," he said. "The meeting also demonstrated how China continues to position itself internationally," Loechel said. China is already an upper middle-income economy, Loechel said, adding that to continue ascending into the ranks of high-income countries, "China must continue to advance economic structural reforms and pursue the path of innovation and high-quality development." He said new quality productive forces are also needed to increase productivity and thereby open up the possibility of further income. Loechel said that such reform measures, especially support for non-state-owned enterprises, are important for boosting innovation. Noting that consumption is an important growth driver for any economy in the world, Loechel said many measures announced at the meeting will help promote consumption in China. The reform has "an indirect impact on consumption behavior, especially among low-income people, whose consumption increases when their income increases," he said. "The reform of the Hukou system is very important for boosting consumption. This means that these low-income people do not have to save as much for health, education, etc., and can use this money for consumption," Loechel said. "Another important measure is the reduction of child-rearing costs," Loechel said, adding that this would not only help promote the birthrate but also indirectly boost consumption. If the costs for kindergartens, education and housing were reduced, people would have more money available for consumption, he said. "In terms of foreign relations, China has made it clear that it not only wants to advance internal reforms but also accelerate opening-up to the outside world. I think this is an important and correct signal," Loechel noted. In a world full of tensions, Loechel said, "a country like China, which remains open, fights protectionism, and wants to reduce tariffs, sends an important signal for the further development of the world economy." "This is very positive, as it reduces existing tensions and shows that China is ready to cooperate with foreign companies at a higher level. This also strengthens the forces in Europe and Germany that want to expand cooperation with China and attracts foreign companies to continue to be active in China," he added. Loechel is optimistic about the future cooperation and trade relations between China and Europe, and voiced confidence that their trade relations will continue to develop and expand. The airline cancellation crisis gave the environment a break from flying for a day. What would it be like if we didnt fly again? Wallace Sooto, from San Diego, looks through lines of luggage while searching for his personal baggage at Salt Lake Citys international airport on Monday, July 22, 2024. A software issue turned Sootos 40-minute layover in Salt Lake City into a two-day stay. He now plans on renting a car and driving home instead of continuing on to his original destination. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News Over the third weekend in July, a software outage paralyzed airlines around the world, per BBC, leaving hundreds of thousands of customers stranded. Now some of these major airlines must levy hundreds of millions of dollars in refunds and reimbursements. In particular, Delta Airlines may owe up to $500 million in related costs, according to CBS News. Though flights are back on track for major airlines, another cancellation crisis occurred in Germany on July 25, per NBC News, when environmental activists launched a coordinated effort to disrupt air travel across Europe. Major disruptions like this have given the Earth a brief respite from the pollution caused by air travel. Moreover, the cancellation crisis gave us a chance to observe just how fragile the air travel system can be. Altogether, these things create a host of questions. Should the current flight system last? If we keep it, can we make it sustainable? And if we leave it what happens then? Flight status boards show delayed and canceled flights at Salt Lake City International Airport on Friday, July 19, 2024. Software issues have caused major delays and cancellations worldwide. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News Flying high and clean: Is it possible? No, its not completely possible. But the aviation industry could get a lot cleaner than it is now. According to FlyGRN, planes emit carbon and other greenhouse gases, which become trapped in the atmosphere and warm the planet. One international flight can equal the energy use of watching TV for 920 days. The average person can do a couple of things to make their own flying greener, such as choosing direct flights and choosing energy-conscious airlines. But the real work falls to the airline industry. Flying on hydrogen is not possible for the time being, per FlyGRN. Electric aircrafts exist, but are small and can only fly short distances. Additionally, only a small amount of airlines use biofuels. While these cut down on carbon emissions, they are much more expensive than regular fuel. Are airlines climate-conscious? According to CNN, the flight industry is not on track to reach its goal of slashing emissions by 2050. Air New Zealand recently abandoned its 2030 emission reduction goal, per CNBC. Though the airline is still pledged to its 2050 goal, its the first airline to formally delay the process, citing expenses and fuel delivery delays. It is possible the airline may need to retain its existing fleet for longer than planned due to global manufacturing and supply chain issues ... airline CEO Greg Foran said in a statement. As such ... the decision has been made to retract the 2030 target. Air New Zealands difficulty reflects the hardship that all airlines experience as they try to meet climate goals. But some airlines are having more success. Per the International Airport Review, United Airlines just became the first airline to purchase sustainable aviation fuel for its planes at OHare International Airport. Last month, American Airlines also committed to purchasing 100 hydrogen-powered engines. American also has the newest plane fleet in America, thanks to its efforts to make its planes more climate-conscious. This announcement will help accelerate the development of technologies needed to power our industry and uphold our commitment to make American a sustainable airline so we can continue to deliver for customers for decades to come, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said in a statement. Americas climate goal are we going to meet it? America has set goals to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 and to slash emissions in half by 2030, according to the State Department. The State Department also reports that the nation is reaching its climate goals throughout industries like transportation, forestry and manufacturing. But according to NBC News, a report from Rhodium, a research company that tracks U.S. progress toward its climate goals, found that Americas climate efforts are still insufficient to meet the goals established through the Paris Climate Agreement. However, per NBC News, The report suggests that clean energy investment is accelerating rapidly, that economic growth no longer depends on fossil fuels and that President Joe Bidens two climate initiatives ... are helping push the pace of electrification. Obstacles still plague Americas road to sustainability, such as an increase in electricity demand and partisan strife around the climate agenda. Nevertheless, clean energy investment continues to rise. In the first few months of 2024, businesses across the nation invested $71 billion into the industry, per NBC News. Its cool to see private capital really flowing into the clean tech space and hopefully finding some winners, some technologies, that are really going to help move the needle, Ben King, who helps direct the Rhodium Group, told NBC News. Alan Eugene Miller was convicted in 2000 of capital murder in the 1999 deaths of Lee Michael Holdbrooks, Christopher S. Yancy, and Terry Lee Jarvis. (Alabama Department of Corrections) An Alabama death row inmate has dropped a lawsuit over an execution scheduled for the end of next month. Alan Eugene Millers lawsuit seeking to at least delay his scheduled execution by nitrogen gas was dismissed with prejudice, according to court filings. The Alabama attorney generals office said in a statement Monday that it had reached a confidential agreement with Miller. The resolution of this case confirms that Alabamas nitrogen hypoxia system is reliable and humane, Attorney General Steve Marshall said in a statement. Millers complaint was based on media speculation that Kenneth Smith suffered cruel and unusual punishment in the January 2024 execution, but what the state demonstrated to Millers legal team undermined that false narrative. Millers execution will go forward as planned in September. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Messages seeking comment were left with Millers attorneys and the attorney generals office on Monday. The terms of the agreement were not disclosed. Miller and the state reached an agreement in November 2022 that he would not be executed by lethal injection, after the state botched an attempt to execute him by the method in September of that year. Millers attorneys said he was left bleeding on a gurney from failed attempts by DOC staff to establish an IV line. Alabama executed Kenneth Eugene Miller by nitrogen gas in January. The state used lethal injection in the executions of Jamie Ray Mills in May and Keith Edmund Gavin last month. Marshall said in the release that both sides have spent the past several months in discovery to prepare for a hearing scheduled for Tuesday. Miller filed a lawsuit at the end of March to stop his pending execution after he was sentenced to death for the murder of three coworkers in 1999. In the lawsuit, Millers attorneys argued that executing him by nitrogen gas violated his Eighth Amendment constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishment and his rights to due process. He also claimed that the state was retaliating against him for speaking about the states first attempt to execute him. Gov. Kay Ivey announced in May that Millers execution would take place in September using nitrogen gas after the Alabama Supreme Court granted the attorney generals motion to have him put to death. Witnesses said Smith, executed by nitrogen gas in January, saw him convulse for two minutes and take several heavy breaths for the remaining seven minutes. DOC Commissioner John Hamm said at the time that Smith was holding his breath for as long as he could. Smiths spiritual advisor, Rev. Jeff Hood, said they saw minutes of someone struggling for his life. Civil rights groups, as well as the United Nations, criticized the method, claiming it amounted to torture. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) Alabamas attorney general said Monday that another nitrogen gas execution will go forward in September after the state reached a settlement agreement with the inmate slated to be the second person put to death with the new method. Alabama and attorneys for Alan Miller, who was convicted of killing three men, reached a confidential settlement agreement to end litigation filed by Miller, according to a court document filed Monday. Millers lawsuit cited witness descriptions of the January execution of Kenneth Smith with nitrogen gas as he sought to block the state from using the same protocol on him. The court records did not disclose the terms of the agreement. Miller had suggested several changes to the states nitrogen gas protocol, including the use of medical grade nitrogen, having a trained professional supervise the gas flow and the use of sedative before the execution. Will Califf, a spokesman for Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said he could not confirm if the state had agreed to make changes to execution procedures. Miller entered into a settlement on favorable terms to protect his constitutional right to be free from cruel and unusual punishments, Mara E. Klebaner, an attorney representing Miller wrote in an email Monday night. Marshall described the settlement as a victory for the use of nitrogen gas as an execution method. His office said it will allow Millers execution to be carried out in September with nitrogen gas. The resolution of this case confirms that Alabamas nitrogen hypoxia system is reliable and humane, Marshall said in a statement. Millers complaint was based on media speculation that Kenneth Smith suffered cruel and unusual punishment in the January 2024 execution, but what the state demonstrated to Millers legal team undermined that false narrative. Millers execution will go forward as planned in September. Marshalls office had titled a press release announcing the settlement that the attorney general successfully defends constitutionality of nitrogen executions. An attorney for Miller disputed Marshalls assessment. No court upheld the constitutionality of the states proposed nitrogen hypoxia method of execution in Mr. Millers case, thus the states claim that it successfully defend(ed) that methods constitutionality is incorrect. By definition, a settlement agreement does not involve a ruling on the merits of the underlying claim, Klebaner wrote in an email. The settlement was filed a day before a federal judge was scheduled to hold a hearing in Millers request to block his upcoming Sept. 26 execution. Klebaner said that by entering into a settlement agreement that the state avoided a public hearing in the case. Alabama executed Smith in January in the first execution using nitrogen gas. The new execution method uses a respirator mask fitted over the inmates face to replace their breathing air with nitrogen gas, causing the person to die from lack of oxygen. Attorneys for Miller had pointed to witness descriptions of Smith shaking in seizure-like spasms for several minutes during his execution. The attorneys argued that nations first nitrogen execution was disaster and the states protocol did not deliver the quick death that the state promised a federal court that it would. The state argued that Smith had held his breath which caused the execution to take longer than anticipated. Miller, a delivery truck driver, was convicted of killing three men Terry Jarvis, Lee Holdbrooks and Scott Yancy during back-to-back workplace shootings in 1999. Alabama had previously attempted to execute Miller by lethal injection. But the state called off the execution after being unable to connect an IV line to the 351-pound inmate. The state and Miller agreed that any other execution attempt would be done with nitrogen gas. The office of Alabamas attorney general has settled a federal lawsuit filed by death row inmate Alan Miller over the states plan for him to become the second known person in the nation to be executed using nitrogen gas. The terms of the settlement are confidential and the inmates lawsuit was dismissed with prejudice, meaning it cannot be brought again, court records show. Millers execution is set for some time between September 26 and 27. Miller had challenged the states nitrogen hypoxia protocol, claiming it could cause him undue suffering, thus violating his Eighth Amendment protections against cruel and unusual punishment. His attorneys did not immediately respond to CNNs request for comment about the settlement. Republican Attorney General Steve Marshall, meanwhile, touted the settlement as proof Alabamas nitrogen gas execution method which was used for the first and only time earlier this year is constitutional. It involves forcing an inmate to inhale 100% nitrogen gas, depriving him of the oxygen needed to survive. The resolution of this case confirms that Alabamas nitrogen hypoxia system is reliable and humane, Marshall said in a Monday news release. Millers lawsuit, he said, was based on media speculation the first person known to have been executed in the US by nitrogen gas, Kenneth Smith, suffered cruel and unusual punishment when he was put to death in January. (B)ut what the State demonstrated to Millers legal team undermined that false narrative, Marshall said. If Miller is put to death next month, it would be the second attempt to execute him for the 1999 fatal shootings of Terry Jarvis, Lee Holdbrooks and Scott Yancy three people the inmate had worked with and claimed to believe were spreading rumors about him. Prior to that initial attempt two years ago, Miller and his attorneys had fought to ensure he would be executed by nitrogen gas, a method he had previously chosen but the state was not ready to employ. After his legal challenges failed, the execution proceeded via lethal injection. But officials were forced to call it off, at the time citing an inability to gain adequate access to Millers veins before his death warrant expired. According to Millers lawsuit, officials aborted the execution attempt after repeatedly sticking him with needles in an unsuccessful effort to set an intravenous line. The state subsequently agreed not to execute Miller using any method other than nitrogen hypoxia. Inmate lawsuit focused on January execution Standing by his preference for an execution using nitrogen, Miller and his attorneys accused the state in federal court of not addressing the alleged failures illustrated by Smiths execution and proposed several changes to the protocol, such as a change to the mask used to deliver the nitrogen. Miller who is 351 pounds expressed concern in a deposition earlier this summer the mask would not fit him. It probably wont (fit) because Ive got a big old head, Miller said of the mask. Nothing else fits my head. Both sides had been expected Tuesday in federal court for a hearing regarding Millers request for a preliminary injunction in the case, which would have forbidden the state from executing him unless it implemented those changes. Smiths execution was at the heart of Millers arguments: In the weeks before it, Smith, his attorneys and critics had raised concerns about Alabamas protocol, which had only been made public with heavy redactions, saying it could lead to undue suffering. In court records, the state had argued the method was perhaps the most humane execution method ever and indicated the redactions were needed to maintain security. While the state said the execution went according to plan, witnesses reported seeing Smith shaking and writhing on the gurney for minutes before dying, despite assertions by the state that death would be quick and painless. Marshall called the execution textbook, and the Department of Corrections Commissioner John Hamm said Smith appeared to be holding his breath a claim repeated in the states motion to dismiss Millers request for a preliminary injunction. Smith held his breath, and after he began inhaling nitrogen gas, he soon lost consciousness and died in minutes, the response says, citing the account of the Alabama corrections captain who oversaw the execution team and experts. Miller questioned that claim in his deposition, asking under questioning by the state, So youre basically telling Kenny Smith to cooperate with yall killing him? (H)ow do you know Kenny Smith was holding his breath? You have no medical professional down there watching showing he was doing like this. How could you tell? Millers complaint proposed several modifications to Alabamas protocol that would be feasible, readily implemented and significantly reduce a substantial risk of severe pain, including using a mask that would fit Millers face and create an airtight seal; using a medical professional instead of corrections officers to place the mask on Millers face and monitor the nitrogen flow; using medical grade nitrogen; and giving Miller a sedative or tranquilizer before delivering the gas. The defendants Marshall and Hamm, plus GOP Gov. Kay Ivey and the prison warden largely dismissed the proposed changes in a filing last month opposing the preliminary injunction, noting Miller had not identified an alternative mask, sedative or medical professionals willing to participate, possibly in violation of health care professionals codes of ethics. Additionally, the defendants noted top nitrogen gas suppliers have forbidden the use of their medical-grade nitrogen in executions, indicating it was not a feasible option. Miller wanted the sedative to help calm me down, he said in his deposition. (T)he ways (they) said he jerked, they said he suffocated, Miller said of Smith. I dont want people thinking Im thrashing or resisting so they can all rush and then jump on me. However, when asked if he would cooperate with corrections officials for a mask fitting, Miller declined, saying he felt it was immoral and calling it psychological terror, though he would sit for a fitting by a neutral third party. He indicated he did not intend to hold his breath during the execution. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com "Rust" prosecutor Kari Morrissey is calling out Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer for dismissing Alec Baldwin's trial last month. The 66-year-old actor was being charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was also charged and convicted in March. She is currently facing 18 months behind bars. On the third day of the trial, Morrissey was accused of burying evidence and the judge found that the only remedy was to fully drop charges against Baldwin with prejudice, meaning that he could no longer face criminal charges for Hutchins' death. 'Rust' Prosecutor Accused Of Misconduct Slams Judge In Alec Baldwin Trial MEGA Special prosecutor Kari Morrissey is speaking out against Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer in a filing submitted on July 31, but only made public on August 5. The court documents see Morrissey taking aim at Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer, Alec Baldwin, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, and her attorney, Jason Bowles. Most of the 42-page document focused on rehashing the two previous trials and shedding more information on the new evidence that was submitted after Hannah Gutierrez-Reed's trial. After the armorer was found guilty, retired police officer Troy Teske submitted Colt .45 rounds to the police, thinking it might have been evidence in the "Rust" case. Teske Had Been A Friend Of Hannah Gutierrez-Reed's Father MEGA Although the bullets had not been to the "Rust" set, Teske was a close friend of Hannah Gutierrez-Reed's father, veteran Hollywood armorer Thell Reed. Baldwin's attorney Alex Spiro said that the bullets Teske submitted looked a lot like the live round found in the gun during the fatal shooting; however, Kari Morrissey disagreed and actually was part of the conversation with law enforcement to file the Teske ammunition under a case number. Baldwin's legal team did not learn about the new evidence until a crime scene technician testified about it on the third day of the trial. Judge Sommer, in her summary judgment, said that since Baldwin's legal team would not have time to do their own forensic analysis on these bullets and therefore felt that dismissing the case with prejudice was the only appropriate remedy to what she dubbed "misconduct" on the part of the prosecution. 'Rust' Prosecutor Publishes Private Text Messages About The Teske Bullets MEGA In the lengthy legal filing, Kari Morrissey published a text message exchange between Troy Teske and props supplier Seth Kenney, who some believe may have accidentally mixed up the live ammunition and dummy rounds when providing ammunition to the Rust set. During the November 2021 conversation, which took place only weeks after Halyna Hutchins was killed, Teske says that he checked a bunch of the rounds and could only find four different types. Yep, its evidence in the accidental death, Kenney replies. Ugh, this sucks but shes seriously trying to blame everyone else for her mistake. After Kenney clarifies that he is talking about Hannah, Teske doesnt respond until Kenney asks him, Did you see any rounds in either box with nickel primers? To this message, Teske simply replies, No. Kari Morrissey Claims The Judge Was 'Intending' To Dismiss Alec Baldwin's Trial MEGA Elsewhere in the lengthy filing, Kari Morrissey wrote, Based on the Courts off-record statement, it was apparent that the Court was intending to dismiss the case." She went on to say, Although the Courts final order has not yet been filed, undersigned counsel contends that the Court misunderstood the testimony on July 12, 2024, and improperly dismissed the case against Mr. Baldwin." It is not clear if she is referring to special prosecutor Erlinda Johnson with this message, as the newcomer to the Alec Baldwin trial resigned on the third day of the trial when the new evidence came to light. Johnson spoke with Chris Cuomo on NewsNation about why she resigned from the case only a few short hours after the trial was dismissed. "We have an obligation as prosecutors, we have an obligation not only to the people, but to the defendant and our obligation is to make sure that all the evidence is turned over," she explained. "We don't get to decide what the defense is going to be. Our job is to ensure transparency and to ensure that the defendant has everything that the prosecution has gathered. What they do with it, that's up to them. Kari Morrissey Does Not Think That Hannah Gutierrez-Reed Deserves Another Trial MEGA Shortly after Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was found guilty in March, her attorney Jason Bowles filed an appeal. However, considering that the judge dismissed Alec Baldwin's "Rust" trial due to a violation of the Brady Rule, Bowles speculated that similar misconduct might have happened in the armorer's trial and felt that the only appropriate remedy was to give her another trial. However, Kari Morrissey is firmly against the idea. If the Court were to decide that the dismissal of the case against Mr. Baldwin was proper there is one HUGE difference in the Gutierrez case the State was not in possession of the Teske ammunition prior to trial (although arguably Mr. Bowles was), in the Baldwin case the State was in possession of the Teske ammunition, Morrissey wrote in her filing. UPPER FREEHOLD - Could two proposed warehouse buildings flood the basements of neighboring homes? Allentowns borough engineer believes so. Two controversial warehouses totaling 453,720 square feet are proposed to sit less than 100 feet from a residential neighborhood in neighboring Allentown. The warehouses themselves would be in Upper Freehold, and so the developer Active Acquisitions is seeking approval by the Upper Freehold planning board but needs no such approval from Allentown. But the project has heighted tensions between the two municipalities and has drawn hundreds of residents to the planning board meetings. Allentown Mayor Thomas Fritts said the borough mailed every registered voter in neighboring Upper Freehold a petition. He said 60% of registered voters responded against the application. Public comments began in June, continued in July and may conclude during Upper Freeholds Tuesday, Aug. 13 planning board meeting at 6 p.m. at Allentown High School. Allentown and Upper Freehold residents speak during public comments about the Active Acquisitions warehouse on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at Allentown High School in Upper Freehold, New Jersey. Warehouse fight: Bias claims, Revolutionary War history, protected birds: Public gets say on warehouse plan Resident Dan Payson, who grew up in Upper Freehold and now lives in Allentown, implored the board, You have the opportunity here to maintain the fabric of our community, which has for a longtime (has had) zero warehouses. And I encourage you all, dont let your mark on the Upper Freehold community be this stupid warehouse. According to Allentowns engineering report, About two-thirds of the Probasco Drive neighborhood, and extending into Pondview Drive, will be affected by increased groundwater levels solely as a result of the waste disposal field. While the developers engineer has calculated the impact of a two-year storm (the kind which can be expected every two years), Carmela Roberts, Allentowns engineer, has argued that the developer needs to take into consideration a 100-year storm, which is three times larger. Allentown Mayor Fritts said developers are allowed to choose between calculating the rate of stormwater discharge or the volume of stormwater discharge. Volume is whats hurting us, he said. A rendering of the proposed Active Acquisitions warehouse presented on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at Stone Bridge Middle School in Upper Freehold, New Jersey. Opinion: Will Upper Freehold officials desecrate Revolutionary War history? They just might Allentown resident Bryce Crawford said there is an existing flooding problem in the area, and prior to completely leak proofing his basement, the water in his basement could rise up to his knees. The warehouses are being built on speculation. Upper Freehold resident Donna Guadagno said she doesnt believe the developer or future owners will adequately handle the runoff and sewage associated with this use in the long term. She said, We will be stuck with these monstrosities forever. Some opponents are worried about traffic coming out of the warehouse. The developers have proposed a traffic circle that would give truck drivers two chances to turn away from accidentally driving through Allentown. Thomas Dechert of Upper Freehold said he has been a truck driver for 30 years and that from his experience, truck drivers will not care about local traffic laws. Dechert argued that truck drivers are going to go the fastest way their GPS tells them to go. An architectural rending of the proposed traffic circle and Active Acquisitions warehouse at the Upper Freehold planning board on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at Allentown High School in Upper Freehold, New Jersey. Monmouth Battlefield fight: Historians say industrial building developer distorted their views Tolani Taylor with Clean Water Action spoke out against the proliferation of warehouses in the state. She said 2.7 million people, or about a third of New Jersey residents, live within a half-mile distance of a warehouse. Tim Larsen of Allentown bought a towel of black soot wiped from his house. He said before the Amazon warehouse in Robbinsville was built across Interstate 195, he would power wash his house every five years. Since then, Amazon trucks starting ambling through Allentown and he has had to power wash his house every year. This soot isnt just a nuisance, its a visible reminder of potential health risks that we face daily, Larsen said. Simone Bellamy, who recently moved to Allentown, said she bought her house thinking a multifamily residence would be built nearby, as an old sign indicates. She said she didnt believe the landscaped buffer would mitigate the impact of the potential warehouse. The sound, the noise pollution, the light pollution and the aesthetic thats where our houses are, she said. He said, With these types of businesses, you lose your night sky," said Upper Freehold resident Keith Becker. "Go look over at the other warehouses, look up at the stars. Soon Allentown wont have them. Olivia Liu is a reporter covering transportation, Red Bank and western Monmouth County. She can be reached at oliu@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Allentown fears flooded basements from Upper Freehold warehouses CROSS CITY, Florida. As Mike Puerner figured it, if Hurricane Idalia hadn't taken out his Horseshoe Beach home, neither would Hurricane Debby. But that doesn't mean he wasn't stressed leaving it to take refuge in an inland hotel. "I've gotten bits and pieces of information that have calmed me down," the 79-year-old Dixie County resident said Monday afternoon, hours after Debby drubbed Florida. "You still just want to be there and see for yourself." Mike Puerner at the Historic Putnam Hotel following Hurricane Debby on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. Ana Goni-Lessan Residents of the Nature Coast have had two hurricanes in less than a year. While Debby was weaker, Dixie and Taylor County locals still have strong memories of Idalia's 125-mph sustained winds and storm surge. They remember their neighbors who lost homes. Monday's floodwaters brought back feelings of stress and anxiety. And, while weaker, Debby also brought 80-mph winds, as well as flooding. The storm may have killed at least four people. After briefly checking on her Horseshoe Beach house and running a generator, Renee McConaughey drove back to the same hotel the Historic Putnam Hotel in Cross City. Her dogs, Mary Jane and Mya Jewel, looked out the back windows. Renee McConaughey kisses her dog Mary Jane in her truck after visiting her house on Horseshoe Beach. Hours before, Hurricane Debby hit the coast of Florida on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. Last year during Idalia, she lost all the food in their refrigerator. "I don't know how long it's going to take to get power back, but we're going to do the best we can," McConaughey said. Puerner hadn't gone and checked on his house yet, planning to go Tuesday, when some of the cleanup crews had cleared. A neighbor who had ridden out the storm told Puerner that his house is, in fact, still standing. And it even had steps leading up to it those had been recently replaced after Idalia snatched them away. Florida State Guard members in Horseshoe Beach after Hurricane Debby hit the coast on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. Taylor County residents arrive in Dixie County, Florida Then there were those who came to Dixie County because most of its inland businesses, notably in Cross City, had power. Floodwaters kept Charles Morris away from his flooded Steinhatchee home that afternoon. He made it out of the driveway that morning and got to Cross City to fill up on gas, but he knew he wouldn't be able to make it back until the tide went down. He said Hurricane Debby, which hit the Florida coast at 7 a.m., "got here quick." Morris had damage to his house last year during Hurricane Idalia, and he said he's expecting some damage again. "If you're going to live on the coast, it's part of it," Morris said. "But we've all got to get these insurance rates down or we're all going to move out of here." Perry, Florida, residents search for positive in everything, even hurricanes Grocery shopping and McDonald's brought Wendy and Donnie Johnson into Cross City from their Perry house, which is about an hour's drive away. The married couple said they tried to find the positive in everything, including hurricanes. Donnie said Hurricane Idalia last year wiped out a number of trees on their property but he found it a blessing, in a way. It tore a lot of dead trees down, he said, munching on a burger in the fast-food eatery. The latest hurricane appears to have wrought far less destruction to Perry than Idalia. But, even last year, Wendy said the human and structural damages could have been a lot worse: Its like God was circling over us. Horses graze in the rain about 10 miles inland from Horseshoe Beach after Hurricane Debby hit the coast on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. Donnie, 74, said he attributes his positive attitude to his experiences in Vietnam and with lung cancer and diabetes: Why not be happy? When asked what makes her positive, Wendy said, Him. Their 17-year-old grandson doesnt necessarily see eye-to-eye with them, though. I didnt really care too much for it, Nathan Couture said, looking back on Idalia. That was probably the most upsetting thing: the internet and power down. Thats what I look at, but they look on the more positive side." Ana Goni-Lessan is the state watchdog reporter for the USA TODAY Network-Florida and can be reached at agonilessan@tallahassee.com. On X: @goni_lessan. USA TODAY Network-Florida First Amendment reporter Douglas Soule is based in Tallahassee, Fla. He can be reached at DSoule@gannett.com. On X: @DouglasSoule. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Hurricanes Debby, Idalia strike Dixie, Taylor counties, Florida Alzheimers drugs that claim to slow down the progression of the disease may not be able to reduce the number of deaths from dementia, Cambridge scientists have said. Two heralded treatments for Alzheimers have emerged in recent years with data showing they slow the cognitive impairment caused by the disease, which is the UKs biggest killer. However, scientists have been locked in debate over whether the benefit of the drugs outweighs the substantial financial costs and high risk of severe side effects such as shrinking brain matter and brain bleeds. Now, scientists from the University of Cambridge have penned a perspective article published in the journal Alzheimers and Dementia warning that it is far from clear whether these drugs can ever significantly reduce population-level dementia morbidity at scale. The letter is a significant intervention in the ongoing conversation over the drugs, with advocates in favour of approving and administering the treatments saying they could pave the way for other, more powerful versions which could finally cure dementia. Critics, however, say the risks are too great, and the benefits imperceivable in reality. The drugs, lecanemab and donanemab, work by clearing out amyloid in the brain. Amyloid is the protein that aggregates on neurons and stops the brain working properly, causing dementia. Both the drugs cost around 20,000 a year and are given in hospital as an intravenous drip, a process that takes about an hour, with lecanemab given every fortnight and donanemab once a month. Data from trials run by the companies making the drugs, Eisai and Eli Lilly, respectively, show a 27 per cent and 35 per cent slowing of cognitive decline in people with early stage Alzheimers, compared with a placebo. Neither of the drugs has been approved in the UK and the European medicine regulators last month said the benefits of lecanemab did not counterbalance the risk of serious side effects and rejected its licence. Lecanemab and donanemab are available in the US after being granted approval by the FDA. But scientists are now increasingly claiming that while the headline data indicates a significant effect size, the impact of the drugs is so small it would not be recognisable by a doctor or the patient. Dr Madhav Thambisetty, a senior clinical investigator at the US National Institute on Aging, spoke at one of the largest scientific conferences in the world earlier this year and warned that some participants in the study trials of the drugs lost up to three teaspoons of brain volume. Click here to view this content. There have also been calls for the drug manufacturers to be more transparent with their data and provide more long-term information to the public about these drugs. Doctors have also warned that just two per cent of eligible people with early signs of Alzheimers will be able to receive the drug due to the need for specialist PET brain scans which are not routinely available. The Cambridge scientists say that the price of the drugs, the demands on the patient and health service in the administering of the treatment, and the high risk of side effects, make the potential roll out of the treatments extremely challenging for even the best-funded healthcare systems. A part of the puzzle Jen Keen, head of policy at Alzheimers Society, says the two drugs are not a cure [but] they are a part of the puzzle. Despite the issues raised in this research, we remain at an important and exciting moment for dementia. Scientists are learning more all the time about Alzheimers disease and our ability to slow it down, she added. There are currently 164 active clinical trials for Alzheimers disease and we expect more treatments to be submitted for regulatory approval in the future. A spokesman for donanemab manufacturer Eli Lilly said: Any new treatments are reviewed by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) and would subsequently be considered by Nice (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) to determine clinical and cost-effectiveness and patient eligibility. Access to any new medicine will also depend on the appropriate diagnostic and treatment pathway being available for healthcare professionals and patients. Lilly is committed to partnering with the NHS and regulatory bodies to ensure new innovations can reach the people that need them. Eisai has been approached for comment. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. (FOX40.COM) The first Amazon Fresh grocery store in Northern California will soon be home to a Sacramento-area location. Video Above: Is buying organic worth the price? Amazon Fresh is an online and physical grocery store that offers low prices on everyday favorites, same-day delivery, and free pickup, according to its website. It also provides customers the option to avoid regular checkout lines by using the Amazon Dash Cart, technology that allows items to be scanned and weighed inside the basket as they shop. Are California shoppers legally required to stop for receipt checkers at store exits? The store has nearly 20 locations spread throughout the state, however, none in the northern part of California. Amazon Fresh is opening a Roseville location on 6780 Stanford Ranch Road in a shopping plaza that includes a Costco. Opening date for the Roseville location is set for Aug. 22. An Elk Grove location is expected to open at The Ridge Shopping Center on Bruceville Road. We can confirm we are bringing an Amazon Fresh store to Elk Grove, California, Amazon spokesperson Griffin Buch said in a statement to FOX40.com. Palm Springs-inspired cocktail lounge and eatery to open in downtown Sacramento (We) look forward to serving the community with high-quality grocery items at a great value, Buch said. Although there was signage up on Aug. 5 about orientation for new employees, Amazon told FOX40.com it did not have information to share about an opening date for the Elk Grove location. FOX40.com also asked about another possible location in Sacramento, but Amazon declined to comment. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. MOSCOW, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday that an employee of the Moldovan Embassy here had been declared persona non grata as a response to similar actions by Chisinau. The ministry said in a statement that it had summoned the charge d'affaires of Moldova and issued a protest against their unfriendly actions. "The Moldovan authorities on Aug. 1 this year declared an employee of the Russian Embassy in Moldova persona non grata," the statement said, adding that Russia's move is "a response to the unmotivated decision of the Moldovan authorities." Amazon is hiring: Hundreds of jobs available in New York City Amazon is hiring: Hundreds of jobs available in New York City NEW YORK (PIX11) Browsing the job market for a new job? Amazon has hundreds of full-time openings in New York City. As of Tuesday, there were 1,093 listings for positions based in New York City. More Local News The job listings include a range of salaries, descriptions of the positions, minimum qualifications, and other requirements they may have. Over half of the postings are for positions on Amazons web services and advertisement teams. Amazon is seeking software development engineers, solution architects, and sales account managers among other positions. Hundreds of entry-level jobs available in NYC Find more information about the jobs and how to apply on the Amazon jobs website. Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. Not only have we adopted more criminal laws at an astonishing clip, but the punishments our criminal laws carry have also grown markedly. Beginning in earnest in the second half of the 20th century, legislatures began to adopt laws that had, as Judge Jed Rakoff has noted, "two common characteristics: they imposed higher penalties, and they removed much of judicial dis-cretion in sentencing." Notable among these laws were statutes imposing mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment for certain crimes. Today, sentencing changes like these can propel some sentences into the stratosphere. A defense attorney in Florida told The Economist that, looking at his clients' prison terms, it appeared to him that the United States was conducting "an experiment in imprisoning first-time non-violent offenders for periods of time previously reserved only for those who had killed someone." One of his clients who had been convicted of fraud was sentenced to 845 years. "I got it reduced to 835," the lawyer said with a sigh. A group that looked across state prison systems found "a consistent upward trend in the amount of time people spend in state prisons" and that the "longest prison terms are getting longer." Another group found that one out of every seven of those now incarcerated is serving a life sentencemore people in total than were serving any sentence in 1970. And while crime tends to be a "young man's game," 30 percent of those serving life sentences were found to be over the age of 55. Thanks to developments like these, the United States is now a world leader when it comes to incarceration. Our incarceration rate is not only eight times as high as the median rate in western European democracies, it is higher than the rates found even in Turkmenistan and Rwanda. As in those of many states, federal prisons have been operating for years around or above 100 percent capacity. And those who emerge from our prisons often confront collateral consequences that haunt them for yearsincluding the loss of voting rights, licenses, public benefits, jobs, and access to housing. Just how new is all this? For a good portion of the 20th century, incarceration rates in this country were pretty flatso much so that, as the Georgetown law professor David Cole has explained, some criminologists imagined that they'd always be the same. From the 1940s to the 1960s, the prison population actually decreased. But since the 1970s, it has "mushroomed." In all, more than a million Americans today are behind bars. When those on parole or probation are included, the Department of Justice estimates, one out of every 47 adults is under "some form of correctional supervision." Nor do the numbers tell the whole story. Much has been written about how, when the number of crimes increases and the punishments they carry grow more severe, respect for criminal law as a whole decreases. As far back as 1967, a presidential commission convened to study the nation's criminal justice system warned that a "substantial cost of overextended use of the criminal process is the risk of creating cynicism and indifference to the whole criminal law." As the late legal scholar William Stuntz once put it, "too much law amounts to no law at all," for "when legal doctrine makes everyone an offender, the relevant offenses have no meaning independent of law enforcers' will. The formal rule of law yields to the functional rule of official discretion." Take what happened during the COVID-19 pandemic as a microcosm. Before the pandemic, many legislatures across the country adopted laws granting executive officials discretion to declare states of emergency. Many governors, mayors, and others deployed those emergency powers during the pandemic and used them to announce their own new rules. Some observers defended the rules as essential; others questioned them. Either way, the rules often shifted from week to week and from town to town in ways difficult for people to track. In some jurisdictions, people were arrested or criminally charged for doing what at any other time could only be described as "living life." One researcher looked into the practices of a single city and found that one man had been cited for "sitting in front of his home listening to music," another for "being on a city street unnecessarily with two other individuals," and one group for "milling around aimlessly." Many of the targeted individuals were members of less powerful constituencies or minority groups. Government officials targeted churches but not favored businesses. Early in the pandemic, Time pointed to a study finding that "people of color were 2.5 times more likely to be punished for violations of COVID-19 orders than white people." Much more could be (and has been) said about the hidden costs of expanding the reach of criminal law and the wreckage it can leave behind for individuals, their families, and their communities. But consider just one man's story. As a young man George Norris fell in love with orchids. Eventually, he quit his job as a construction worker with the hope of turning his passion into a living. He worked hard, traveling to Peru, Ecuador, and Mexico in search of exotic plants, building his business slowly over time. Eventually he made a name for himself, collectors increasingly turned to him, and his small business began to flourish. Then one day in October 2003, his life turned upside down. That day, six federal agents dressed in black body armor and bearing firearms pulled up to his home in three pickup trucks. Two went around the back of the house while another approached the front door. When George opened the door, the agents announced that they were executing a search warrant and swept in, ordering George to sit in the kitchen while an agent watched over him. His wife was out at the time, but a neighbor soon alerted her about the brewing trouble. (Apparently agents had been asking passersby what they knew about "the criminal activity" going on at the house.) When she called her husband, she found him "frightened" and "confused"; "there was no telling what this was about." Mrs. Norris later testified that the agents "ransacked" their home, dumping drawers full of belongings onto the floor, before carting away 37 boxes of the couple's possessions, including Mr. Norris' computer. It took about five months for the Norrises to learn that George was under investigation for importing orchids without proper documentation. After federal authorities indicted him on seven counts, George surrendered to officials, who placed him in handcuffs and leg shacklesby that point he was 67 years oldand confined him in a cell with three other arrestees. One was suspected of murder, two of dealing drugs. When he told his cellmates he was in for orchids, they erupted with laughter. One quipped: "What do you do with these things, smoke 'em?" George tried to fight, but the legal bills racked up. Eventually, he changed his not-guilty plea to guilty. "I absolutely hated that," he later said. "The hardest thing I ever did was stand there and say I was guilty to all these things. I didn't think I was guilty of any of them." He was sentenced to 17 months in prison. (The government had asked for about double that time.) He was then and forever labeled a federal felon. He reported to prison in January 2005, was temporarily released while an appellate court heard his case, then returned to prison to serve the remainder of his term. For 71 days, officials reportedly segregated him in solitary confinement (though as it turned out, he was actually with two other inmates thanks to overcrowding). Finally, George was released in April 2007. "The hardest part," his wife later testified, was that "I lost the man I married. He came home from prison and he ate and he slept and he sat on the couch and looked at the TV, but he wasn't really watching it. It was like having him in a coma, almost. He wouldn't water a plant, he wouldn't call the grandkids, he wouldn't invite a friend over, he didn't want to go out to dinner. Nothing." The family struggled with their finances, having used their savings to pay for George's defense. George's business was done, his greenhouse abandoned; he simply didn't have it in him anymore. "I don't sleep like I used to; I still have prison dreams," he later told an interviewer. And then in a quiet voice he added, "It's utterly wrecked our lives." Of course, not every federal felon is like George Norris. Many sitting behind bars are serving time for violent crimes or other conduct that most would recognize as reprehensible. Doubtless, too, new criminal laws are sometimes needed to address new social developments. And surely the federal government has a role to play in the criminal field, including to thwart criminal schemes that cross state lines or to secure fundamental rights protected by the federal Constitution. But are more criminal laws and longer sentences the answers to every problem? This article is adapted from Over Ruled: The Human Toll of Too Much Law by permission of Harper. The post America Criminalizes Too Much and Punishes Too Much appeared first on Reason.com. JACKSONVILLE, F.L. (WROC) With Tropical Storm Debby bringing devastating flooding to parts of the Southeast, the American Red Cross is sending local volunteers that way to offer aid. Currently, about a half-dozen volunteers have been sent from the Rochester area. One of them is headed to the emergency shelter sites to help provide meals and supervision to those in need. As of right now, Im going to Jacksonville. Monday night, they wanted to switch it again to Orlando, but they couldnt get me on a flight, said Tim Seitz, a Red Cross volunteer. After a round of flight cancellations Monday, Seitz is headed for Florida. But, as is protocol with natural disasaters, the possibility of relocating is almost always a guarantee. Thats the one thing with this is you just dont know. Usually, its two weeks. Both times Ive gone, it has been two weeks. But, if I get down there and things arent as bad as they thought it was going to be, they could say, You know, were all set and you can go home. And theyll send me home, said Seitz. The Red Cross currently has volunteers scattered all across the U.S. from relief in Houston, Texas after Hurricane Beryl to the California wildfires, and the Central New York city of Rome, which was hit by a tornado in late July. The duration and the impact caused by the damage were seeing, the number that were dealing with annually, is night and day compared to a couple decades ago, said Michael Tedesco of the Red Cross WNY Chapter. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. AMES, Iowa An Ames woman has been accused of abandoning five cats at an apartment last week with no food or water. On August 5 the Ames Police Department responded to a report of an animal neglect situation at an apartment complex in the 3500 block of Grand Avenue. According to court records, property management entered a unit that was recently vacated and discovered five cats abandoned inside. Suspect back in custody after victim of Johnston motorcycle crash dies A criminal complaint states there was an empty bowl filled with flies on the floor, the cats didnt have access to clean food or water, and that the unit was filled with feces and urine. Aaliyah Jean Klismith, 24, moved out of the unit on August 1 and told police that she knew the cats were left at the apartment without proper care, according to a criminal complaint. Klismith was arrested on Monday and charged with five counts of animal neglect no injury/serious injury or death. She is currently being held at the Story County Jail on a $1,500.00 bond. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. POLK COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) Safety concerns caused county and regional officials to close the Lake Hancock boat ramp Tuesday, due to high water levels from Hurricane Debby. The closure has left commercial fishermen, whove fished this lake for generations, scrambling. I probably have more memories on this lake than I do on any other spot on the earth, commercial fisherman Jojo Groene said. Groene knows Lake Hancock well, as well as the rivers, creeks, and tributaries that flow into it. Florida tire shop employee dies after tire exploded while he was filling it with air: deputies Lake Hancock sits at the headwaters of the Peace River, which makes it a precious resource for anglers. Its fishing, so its ups and downs, but right now, its a good time to go fishing. After all this rain, it makes the fishing good. The fish have been waiting on this rain so weve been waiting on this rain too, he said. Too much rain has proven to be an issue now. Polk County officials closed the Lake Hancock boat ramp Tuesday. A sign at the gate reads DANGER HIGH WATER DISCHARGES. WATERWAY CLOSED. How am I gonna make a living? Groene asked. We rely on this lake, not just me, dozens of people. A Polk County spokesperson told News Channel 8 that safety is the number one priority and the Southwest Florida Water Management District, which manages floodwater, was heavily involved in the decision to close the boat ramp. I think its terrible. Weve been waiting on a boat ramp since 1962, Kendall Thomas, a longtime commercial fisherman who fishes Lake Hancock, said. It is heartbreaking: Flooding from Hurricane Debby impacts Sarasota residents Many fishermen in Groenes family, including Thomas, used a makeshift boat ramp to access Lake Hancock, until the Florida Department of Transportation closed off access to it, citing safety concerns. The countys boat ramp, which is temporarily closed, opened in summer 2020. Groene said a fisherman can make upwards of $700 a day catching tilapia on Lake Hancock. Thats a lot of money whenever your bills are relying on that: the truck, the house, the boat, the kids, Groene said. Hurricane Debby blew $1 million worth of cocaine onto Florida beach With the boat ramp closed, the fishermen have resorted to casting nets from a bank on Saddle Creek and catching fish close to shore. Open it up now so that people that make a living here can at least go out there and provide for their family. Its peoples families on the line here, Groene said. Its unclear when the boat ramp might reopen. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. This is an animal we dont think we have seen before, McMaster says of Storm Debby Tropical Storm Debby is slowly barreling toward South Carolina. In response Gov. Henry McMaster and other state officials are issuing a stark warning. Flash flooding, tornadoes and grave storm surges are some of the effects South Carolinaians can expect to see once Tropical Storm Debby makes its way to the Palmetto State this week, according to McMaster and a flurry of state officials. This (storm) is an animal that we dont think we have seen before, McMaster said Monday during a news conference at the South Carolina Department of Emergency Management. So, we must be very very prepared. Debby made landfall as a Category One in the Big Bend area of Florida Monday at 7 a.m., according to the National Weather Service. It has since weakened to a tropical storm thatll move across northern Florida and southeast Georgia Monday night before resting over the Atlantic Ocean Tuesday morning, the service said. Unfortunately, Debby will linger just off the South Carolina coast for much of the midweek period before possibly moving back on shore somewhere along the northern South Carolina coast or possibly even the southeast North Carolina coast on late Thursday (day), Thursday night or Friday, said John Quagliariello of the National Weather Service in Columbia. Given the slow movement of Debby, Quagliariello said state officials are confidant that there will be prolonged periods of impact throughout the state late in the week. This includes tropical storm force winds, storm surge along the coast, a few tornadoes and the dreaded catastrophic flash and urban flooding. In 2015, a combination of weather systems, including a stalled front, deep tropical moisture and Hurricane Joaquin led to historic rainfall across South Carolina, where 15-20 inches of rain resulted in widespread flooding and damage to numerous properties and roads. Many people had to be rescued by emergency personnel. State officials and McMaster said while they arent sure whether Debby will reproduce a similar catastrophe, theyre cautioning residents to be extremely mindful of the possibility. We expect some of the impacts similar to what we saw during the 2015 floods, said Emergency Management Division Director Kim Stenson. The areas affected (this year) are probably going to be a lot different than they were last time, but certainly the roads and the floods will be a factor. If you live in a flood prone area ... identify a higher ground where you can seek safety as needed. Overall, officials are cautioning residents to refrain from driving as the storm system makes its way across the state, saying that as little as two feet of surging water has the power to sweep a car off the road. Just six inches of fast moving water can knock a person off their feet and two feet can sweep most vehicles away as well, Stenson said. Although McMaster announced a state of emergency on Sunday ahead of the storm, he said Monday that no evacuation orders have been issued. Evacuation orders will largely be left for local authorities to issue, depending on relative storm conditions. Still, McMaster is urging South Carolinians to prepare by securing water, batteries, flashlights, and any other resource they believe they might need. To avert the potential of dams flooding, Myra Reece, interim Director of the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services, said her agency has already begun draining flood prone areas. Weve made communications with dam owners of our regulated 2,400 regulating dams started Sunday afternoon where we advised owners to be vigilant, keep their eyes on the dam, keeping spillways clear of debris and keep them flowing, Reece said. Reece added that dam owners have been advised to lower their water levels while coordinating the release with downstream dam owners. Today our team has conducted three storm assessments of some dams that we felt like might be vulnerable to this type of intense storm and were working with the owners to advise them if any additional steps might be recommended to minimize the impacts, Reece said. This is an animal we dont think we have seen before, McMaster says of Storm Debby Tropical Storm Debby is slowly barreling toward South Carolina, prompting Gov. Henry McMaster and other state officials to issue a stark warning: Be prepared. Flash flooding, tornadoes and grave storm surges are some of the effects South Carolinaians can expect to see once Tropical Storm Debby makes its way to the Palmetto State this week, according to McMaster and state officials. This (storm) is an animal that we dont think we have seen before, McMaster said Monday during a news conference at the South Carolina Department of Emergency Management. So, we must be very very prepared. Debby made landfall as a Category One hurricane in the Big Bend area of Florida Monday at 7 a.m., according to the National Weather Service. It has since weakened to a tropical storm that will move across northern Florida and southeast Georgia Monday night before resting over the Atlantic Ocean Tuesday morning, the service said. Unfortunately, Debby will linger just off the South Carolina coast for much of the midweek period before possibly moving back on shore somewhere along the northern South Carolina coast or possibly even the southeast North Carolina coast on late Thursday (day), Thursday night or Friday, said John Quagliariello of the National Weather Service in Columbia. Given the slow movement of Debby, Quagliariello said state officials are confident that there will be prolonged periods of impact throughout the state late in the week. This includes tropical storm force winds, storm surge along the coast, a few tornadoes and the dreaded catastrophic flash and urban flooding. In 2015, a combination of weather systems, including a stalled front, deep tropical moisture and Hurricane Joaquin led to historic rainfall across South Carolina, where 15-20 inches of rain resulted in widespread flooding and damage to numerous properties and roads. Many people had to be rescued by emergency personnel. State officials and McMaster said while they arent sure whether Debby will reproduce a similar catastrophe, theyre cautioning residents to be extremely mindful of the possibility. We expect some of the impacts similar to what we saw during the 2015 floods, said Emergency Management Division Director Kim Stenson. The areas affected (this year) are probably going to be a lot different than they were last time, but certainly the roads and the floods will be a factor. If you live in a flood prone area ... identify a higher ground where you can seek safety as needed. Overall, officials are cautioning residents to refrain from driving as the storm system makes its way across the state, saying that as little as two feet of surging water has the power to sweep a car off the road. Just six inches of fast moving water can knock a person off their feet and two feet can sweep most vehicles away as well, Stenson said. Although McMaster announced a state of emergency on Sunday ahead of the storm, he said Monday that no evacuation orders have been issued. Evacuation orders will largely be left for local authorities to issue, depending on relative storm conditions. Still, McMaster is urging South Carolinians to prepare by securing water, batteries, flashlights, and any other resource they believe they might need. To avert the potential of dams flooding, Myra Reece, interim Director of the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services, said her agency has already begun draining flood prone areas. Weve made communications with dam owners of our regulated 2,400 regulating dams started Sunday afternoon where we advised owners to be vigilant, keep their eyes on the dam, keeping spillways clear of debris and keep them flowing, Reece said. Reece added that dam owners have been advised to lower their water levels while coordinating the release with downstream dam owners. Today our team has conducted three storm assessments of some dams that we felt like might be vulnerable to this type of intense storm and were working with the owners to advise them if any additional steps might be recommended to minimize the impacts, Reece said. A poll worker in Richmond holds an "I Voted" sticker. (Ned Oliver/Virginia Mercury) Two years ago, the late Lois Dedeaux McClellan voted for her daughter Jennifer to become the first Black woman to represent Virginia in Congress, but there had been a period in her 91 years of life when the law prevented her from voting at all. Though the suffrage movement granted white women the right to vote by 1920, women of color had to wait to cast their ballots until the federal Voting Rights Act was signed into law, 45 years later. Now on the 59th anniversary of that landmark legislation, Lois daughter U.S. Rep. Jennifer McClellan, D-Virginia, is still pressing Congress to ensure fair access to voting for all. The fight since day one is who gets to participate, McClellan said in an interview this week. Weve made a lot of progress, but every time we make progress, we face a backlash. Its up to all of us to really demand that Congress step up and protect and expand voting rights. That quest led McClellan to co-sponsor the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the Freedom to Vote Act in 2023. The former would restore provisions that have since been removed from the Voting Rights Act of 1965, while the latter would expand voter registration and designate Election Day as a federal holiday. Both bills have been introduced but not progressed. McClellan said she doesnt think they will get far unless more Democrats are elected into Congress. While the Voting Rights Act of 1965 prohibited racial discrimination in voting, a 2013 U.S. Supreme Court ruling undid parts of the law ,striking down in a 5-4 ruling provisions that gave the federal government oversight when states with histories of racial discrimination sought to change their voting laws. In the decade since, a number of states have adjusted their voting laws in ways that some advocacy groups say disenfranchise Black voters or other minority groups. Such has been the case in Georgia, where a 2021 law included restrictions on absentee ballot drop boxes and penalties for passing out refreshments to people standing in line waiting to vote. More recently, a redistricting case in Texas alleges that Black and Hispanic votes were diluted in violation of the Voting Rights Act. Despite a trial judge and appellate court panel both ruling the voter map was in violation of the federal law, the full federal Fifth Circuit Court disagreed. Its nothing new to Fergie Reid Jr., the son of Fergie Reid Sr. who was the only Black member of Virginias House of Delegates when he was elected in 1968, just three years after the Voting Rights Act. This s has always been happening; it never stopped, Reid Jr. said of barriers to voting or laws that disenfranchise people of color. Everything didnt just change because the Voting Rights Act got passed. It was always a struggle, one step at a time, pushing a rock up a hill. And now the rock is falling back down the hill. In the century before the Voting Rights Act Black men had the right to vote and some had been elected. But after the hot minute of that, Reid Jr. said, their access to legislative power was too much for [white] people. What followed was decades of Jim Crow laws that disenfranchised people of color. It took until the 1960s for his father to make history as the first Black member of state government since the Reconstruction era following the Civil War. In the decade before his election, Reid Sr. had also encouraged Black voter engagement through the Richmond Crusade For Voters, an organization hed co-founded that still operates today. When Reids 90th birthday rolled around in 2015, his son launched the 90 For 90 campaign to bolster voter registration and candidate recruitment. Black representation in Virginia has grown over the past decade. This year, Reid Jr. said hes focusing recruitment efforts in states where candidates of color or Democrats could face an uphill battle. Whether or not [Kamala] Harris can win, you have to compete everywhere, he said. Broad engagement is something Black Futures Lab political director Alexsis Rodgers said that the organization is working on, as well, inside and outside Virginia. We know that there are Black community members there who want to be engaged, but they might not be getting good information. They might not know what the latest laws are in their communities, Rodgers said. And so in Georgia, North Carolina and Wisconsin, were really focused on doing that outreach. While not totally partisan, the push for enhanced voting access often falls along partisan lines. McClellan noted that when she was still a state senator and Democrats held majorities in Virginias legislature and governorship, they were bucking the national trend in Southern states to broaden voting access rather than restrict it. The legislature passed laws to allow for more absentee voting, the creation of ballot drop boxes, and extended early voting. McClellan, along with Del. Cia Price, D-Newport News, also passed the Voting Rights Act of Virginia in 2021. Meanwhile, as 2024s elections play out at the local, state and national level, so do proposed changes in who can participate and how. Georgias election board has proposed changes with a focus on Fulton County where a large portion of the states Black population votes which would require reasonable inquiry before approving election results. With Fulton County in particular still at the center of former president and current candidate Donald Trumps claims he actually won the 2020 election, voting rights advocates warn the measures could be misused by board members to reject the results of the presidential race. Trump praised Georgias electoral boards proposals in a recent rally. And though changes to election processes are the purview of state election boards, McClellan said the congressional efforts to restore parts of the Voting Rights Act that have been cast aside could prevent states from making changes that hearken to the days when her ancestors couldnt vote or were subjected to restrictions like poll taxes and literacy tests. Rodgers, who has also been a Democratic organizer and supporter of McClellan, stressed that the federal bills are about protecting democracy. Sometimes that means Republicans will win, sometimes that means Democrats will win, she said. But ultimately it means that more people can participate in our democracy. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX An aggressive campaign from pro-Israel groups helped take down a member of the progressive Squad earlier this cycle. Those forces are hoping to oust another member on Tuesday. Democratic Rep. Cori Bush faces a tough primary challenge in Missouris 1st District from St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell, whos backed by the American Israel Public Affairs Committees political arm. Pro-Israel groups have vowed to spend heavily in elections this year to block candidates they deem insufficiently supportive of Israel, and members of the Squad have been targeted, in part, for their support for Palestinians amid the war in the Middle East. More than $10 million has poured in against Bush, around $9 million of which came from AIPACs super PAC, United Democracy Project, according to ad tracker AdImpact. But its not just the heavy spending that could deliver Bush a loss. Like Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.), the first Squad member to lose a primary earlier this year, Bush has serious political weaknesses like being under federal investigation for campaign spending that makes her far more vulnerable than your average member. Its a busy primary day in three other states beyond Missouri, with races up and down the ballot in Kansas, Michigan and Washington, including open races to succeed outgoing governors and retiring members of Congress, along with battleground matchups that will be set. Heres what to watch on Tuesday: Kansas: Republican Rep. Jake LaTurners announcement that he wasnt running for another term in the 2nd District citing a desire to be with his children and the dysfunction on the Hill came as a surprise, given hes one of the youngest members of Congress. His departure has led to a crowded field of Republicans jockeying to succeed him. Frontrunners include former state Attorney General Derek Schmidt; former LaTurner staffer Jeff Kahrs; and Shawn Tiffany, a rancher. Schmidt unsuccessfully ran for governor in the midterms, but he has a perceived leg up, thanks to an endorsement from former President Donald Trump. Former Democratic Rep. Nancy Boyda is also looking to make a comeback, though shell face an uphill climb in this deep-red seat. Kansas also features a battleground House race in the 3rd District, a seat that President Joe Biden won by around 5 points in 2020. Prasanth Reddy, a physician with the backing of Speaker Mike Johnson, is the favorite for the GOP nod against Democratic Rep. Sharice Davids. Polls close at 8 p.m. Eastern in most of the state, and 9 p.m. Eastern in the small part in the Mountain Time Zone. Michigan: A high-stakes open Senate race to succeed retiring Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow tops Tuesdays primaries in this battleground state. Both parties have their presumed candidates Rep. Elissa Slotkin for Democrats, and former Rep. Mike Rogers for Republicans though they have contested primaries. Hill Harper, an actor and activist, is looking to complicate Slotkins path to victory, but Slotkin has a hefty fundraising advantage and the backing of establishment Democrats. Rogers, meanwhile, has the support of Republicans Senate campaign arm. Hell be fending off a challenge from former Rep. Justin Amash (who previously left the GOP to become a Libertarian) and physician Sherry ODonnell. Businessperson Sandy Pensler ended his bid and endorsed Rogers last month, but will still appear on the ballot. A handful of battleground House primaries are also on the docket. One of the most competitive down-ballot contests here is in the 8th District, a seat the Biden narrowly won in 2020 and will be open as Democratic Rep. Dan Kildee calls it quits. On the Democratic side, state Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet has the backing of Kildee and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, but faces a challenge from former Flint Mayor Matt Collier and state Board of Education President Pamela Pugh. Republican Paul Junge, who lost in the general election for this seat in the midterms, has the stiffest challenge from former chemical company executive Mary Draves. Trump threw his backing behind Junge. Other battleground races in the Great Lakes State will be taking place in the 3rd, 7th and 10th districts. In the 3rd, a seat currently held by Democratic Rep. Hillary Scholten that Biden won by around 9 points in 2020, attorney Paul Hudson and businessperson Michael Markey are competing for the GOP nod. Theres little intrigue in the 7th, currently held by Slotkin: Former Democratic state Sen. Curtis Hertel and 2022 Republican nominee Tom Barrett dont have opponents in their respective primaries. And in the 10th, a seat that Trump won by around 1 point in 2020, Republican Rep. John James could face a rematch from unsuccessful 2022 candidate Carl Marlinga, who has to get through a busy Democratic primary first. Earlier this cycle, it seemed that Democratic Rep. Shri Thanedar, an Indian-American lawmaker representing a predominantly Black seat in the Detroit-based 13th District, could be in trouble during his primary. But he faces an easier path to reelection after his most serious threat failed to submit enough signatures to qualify for the ballot. The incumbent now has two lesser-known challengers, both of whom are Black. Polls close at 8 p.m. Eastern in most of the state, and 9 p.m. Eastern in the rest. Missouri: Despite the barrage of spending against Bush, shes not without reinforcements. Progressive group Justice Democrats is her biggest supporter, pouring in more than $2 million on advertising. And not all the drama in the state is happening in the Democratic primary between Bush and Bell. A contentious Republican primary is underway to succeed term-limited GOP Gov. Mike Parson. Parson-backed Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and state Sen. Bill Eigel have emerged as the leading candidates, and have leaned into red-meat issues in the lead-up to the election, including immigration and China. Trump pulled a familiar gambit in this race: He endorsed all three of them, all but certainly guaranteeing him a win. Democratic state House Minority Leader Crystal Quade and businessperson Mike Hamra are the frontrunners for the Democratic primary, though the winner will face an uphill climb in this red state. Democrats are also hoping that a familiar name can help them in a tough battle against Republican Sen. Josh Hawley. Democrat Lucas Kunce, who unsuccessfully ran in a Senate primary in the midterms, is the favorite for his partys nomination this time around. Theres also a crowded GOP primary in the 3rd District, an open, deep-red seat currently held by retiring Republican Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer. Heavy spending has poured in around $5 million against Trump-endorsed Bob Onder, a former state senator. That includes more than $1 million each from Conservatives for American Excellence and America Leads Action Inc., two groups that have spent in safe GOP primaries nationally this cycle in an attempt to block potential rabble-rousers from Congress. National Interest Action, a recently formed group that also played in an Arizona primary, also has dropped more than $1 million on advertising. But Onder has been boosted by more than $2 million from the Club for Growth and affiliated groups. Kurt Schaefer, also a former state legislator, is in the running as well, and has been supported by more than $1 million in spending from Missouri Conservatives for Congress, a group bankrolled by Luetkemeyer, who endorsed him. Polls close at 8 p.m Eastern. Washington: Along with Missouri, Washington also has an open gubernatorial seat. Outgoing Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee, along with Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, are all backing state Attorney General Bob Ferguson. Former Republican Rep. Dave Reichert is also a favorite to secure a spot out of the all party, top-two primary though Semi Bird, a former local school board member, has the backing of the state GOP. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, one of the most vulnerable House Democrats, faces off against two Republicans in the 3rd District, which Trump carried by around 4 points. Republican Joe Kent, who lost by less than 1 point in 2022, is back for a second attempt; and Leslie Lewallen, a local city councilmember, is trying to convince the district she has a better chance of beating Gluesenkamp Perez in November. Lewallen is campaigning as a more moderate Republican option, but has trailed both other candidates in fundraising. Gluesenkamp Perez, meanwhile, continues to push her working-class, party renegade image, while Kent aims to paint her as too progressive for the district. The two have spent the runup to Election Day embroiled in a battle on X, and at their campaign rallies, over Gluesenkamp Perezs vote against a 2023 House bill that would have banned transgender athletes. In Washingtons 8th District, another battleground, just one Republican, Carmen Goers, is running to take on Democratic Rep. Kim Schrier. But Goers doesnt have strong fundraising, putting her at a disadvantage for the general election. Washingtons safe seats also have seen a flurry of campaigning ahead of the primary. One of the last two Republicans who voted to impeach Trump in 2021 is fighting for his political life in the safe red 4th District. GOP Rep. Dan Newhouse faces off against not one but two Trump-endorsed candidates: former NASCAR driver Jerrod Sessler and Tiffany Smiley, a nurse who lost her Senate run in 2022. Newhouse outraised and outspent the field, but political experts and strategists say this is the most vulnerable hes ever been. Some voters in his district last week who spoke to POLITICO criticized Newhouse for not showing up to local events and not taking a strong enough stance on issues like border security. The state's unique all-party primary adds an additional layer to uncertainty. Democrats have made up roughly a third of the electorate in recent elections, so two Republicans could theoretically advance to a general election. That could be Newhouse versus another, Trump-endorsed Republican or Newhouse could get locked out entirely. Similar dynamics are at play in the 6th District, a deep-blue seat held by retiring Rep. Derek Kilmer. Democrats Hilary Franz, the states public lands commissioner, and state Sen. Emily Randall are the leading contenders. Kilmer endorsed Franz, while Randall has the backing of Murray, Gluesenkamp Perez and Rep. Marilyn Strickland. Its possible both make it to the general election, though its unlikely given a split Democratic vote. And in the 5th District, a crowded Republican field is vying to replace retiring GOP Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, including former state Sen. Michael Baumgartner, who has raised and spent the most out of the contenders. Polls close at 11 p.m. ET. Natalie Fertig contributed to this report. A version of this story first appeared in POLITICO Pros Morning Score newsletter. Sign up for POLITICO Pro. (KRON) Homicide investigators in Antioch say a suspect is at large after new surveillance video was obtained in the January death of a man that was knocked unconscious, the Antioch Police Department announced Monday in a press release. The incident happened on Jan. 7 at 9:45 p.m. on the 1900 block of D Street, according to police. Lanes blocked on I-80 near Carquinez Bridge after multi-vehicle crash leaves debris on road When patrol officers arrived at the scene, they said the 39-year-old male victim was down and unresponsive to officers aid. He was transported to a hospital and later pronounced dead. After getting video from the scene and speaking with several witnesses, police determined the victim was hit at least one time by the assailant, knocking him unconscious and causing him to fall on the ground, APD said. Anyone with further information on this case is asked to call the Investigations Bureau at 925-779-6937. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. LIPICA, Slovenia, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Spanning more than 300 hectares, the Lipica Stud Farm in western Slovenia draws thousands of tourists annually, to enjoy the sight of snow-white Lipizzan horses galloping across its green meadows. Tourists typically visit from neighboring countries, but the farm's head of sales and marketing Aaron Uazeua told Xinhua in an interview that Lipica is now eager to attract visitors from China. The farm is also open to the idea of business ventures with Chinese partners, he added. "Sometimes we see people from China riding in Lipica, but not as often as (people) from countries closer to us," Uazeua said. Visitors to the farm can watch the horses running and grazing in the vast meadows, surrounded by rolling hills. They can also enter the stables, with their gold-plated ornaments that speak to a royal past. Tourists can also watch the horses' official training sessions, and attend the elaborate shows at the Lipica Riding School. The farm has long played an important role in the region, and in European horseback riding. It was established in the 16th century, and has been home to the Lipizzan horses for over 400 years. "In the 16th century the horses were being imported mostly from Spain. It was a long journey for horses to make, and the royal court then decided that they needed a place closer to home, with a climate that resembles that of Spain," Uazeua explained. "One of the main characteristics -- and maybe the one that is the most famous -- is that Lipizzan horses are born completely dark," he said. "At the age of 5 to 8 ... they become white." The Lipizzan horse is an artificial mix of the horses from the Karst region, where the Lipica farm is located, and Spanish horses. 1,000 of the elegant animals now live in the country. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) apologized to city councilors and the public about recent body camera video that came to light of officers using racial slurs and glorifying violence following a deadly shooting. Story continues below On behalf of the Albuquerque Police Department, myself and everybody involved with the police department and the City of Albuquerque; Id like to issue an apology to all of our partners. We worked really hard to establish and build those rapport, said Deputy Chief Josh Brown during Mondays city council meeting. Recent lapel audio picked up a shocking conversation between two officers shortly after a fatal shooting in April. Officers were responding to the Walmart in northeast Albuquerque about a pair of robbery suspects. One of them was later identified as Mark Benavidez. Officers tried to detain Benavidez as he left the store, a scuffle broke out, and Benavidez grabbed for an officers rifle. He shot it several times into the ground. Benavidez was shot and killed. I like violent encounters with violent people, an officer said on the lapel footage. Thats why I became a cop. I didnt come to f****** help old ladies who cant cross the f****** road. I want to take actual s***heads that are actually doing stuff off the street. Whats going on over there now? (inaudible) savages (inaudible) its getting out of control, an officer can be heard saying. APD says an internal investigation is underway. Investigators have up to 120 days to complete the investigation. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. A federal appeals court on Tuesday upheld Marylands ban on certain semiautomatic weapons, handing a win to gun control advocates in a closely watched Second Amendment case. In a 10-5 vote, the full 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals found that Marylands law complies with the Supreme Courts recent expansion of gun rights. We decline to wield the Constitution to declare that military-style armaments which have become primary instruments of mass killing and terrorist attacks in the United States are beyond the reach of our nations democratic processes, Judge J. Harvie Wilkinson III wrote for the majority. One plaintiff has already vowed to appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court. Maryland enacted the law in 2013 after the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, in which 20 children and six adults were killed. The statute bans possessing or selling assault weapons, defined to cover dozens of weapons like the AR-15, AK-47 and semiautomatic rifles equipped with high-capacity magazines. Violations are a criminal offense that can carry up to three years in prison. Three Maryland residents, three gun rights organizations and a firearms dealer based in the state have challenged the law for years, claiming it violates their constitutional protections. The 4th Circuit had upheld the law, but the Supreme Court sent the case back for another look after the 6-3 conservative majority issued an expansion of Second Amendment rights two years ago. In NYSRPA v. Bruen, the court ruled that gun control measures must be consistent with the nations historical tradition of firearm regulation to be upheld as constitutional. Wilkinson, an appointee of former President Reagan, said Marylands law is still constitutional even under that more stringent standard. The assault weapons at issue fall outside the ambit of protection offered by the Second Amendment because, in essence, they are military-style weapons designed for sustained combat operations that are ill-suited and disproportionate to the need for self-defense, Wilkinson wrote for the majority. Moreover, the Maryland law fits comfortably within our nations tradition of firearms regulation, the opinion continued. It is but another example of a state regulating excessively dangerous weapons once their incompatibility with a lawful and safe society becomes apparent, while nonetheless preserving avenues for armed self-defense. Wilkinsons opinion was joined by eight other judges, all appointed by Democrats. One other judge agreed the law was constitutional but declined to join the majority opinions reasoning. Five judges, all appointed by Republican presidents, dissented. Judge Julius Richardson, an appointee of former President Trump, wrote in the nearly 100-page dissent that the majority disregards the Founders wisdom and replaces it with its own. While history and tradition support the banning of weapons that are both dangerous and unusual, Marylands ban cannot pass constitutional muster as it prohibits the possession of arms commonly possessed by law-abiding citizens for lawful purposes, Richardson wrote in the nearly 100-page dissent. In holding otherwise, the majority grants states historically unprecedented leeway to trammel the constitutional liberties of their citizens. Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC), one of the gun rights groups that has challenged Marylands law, vowed to bring the case to the Supreme Court. FPC will take the Fourth Circuits terrible decision to the Supreme Court without delay. Our objective is simple: End all bans on so-called assault weapons nationwide. And we look forward to doing just that, FPC President Brandon Combs said in a statement. The court refused to get involved in the case at an earlier posture, and the justices similarly declined to take up the issue when it turned away a challenge to a similar law in Illinois last month. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. PEKIN, Ill. (WMBD) An appellate court panel ruled last week that the former Tazewell County Auditor was not improperly denied a special prosecutor in her lawsuit against the County Board Chairman. Rather, the trio of judges from the 4th District Appellate Court in Springfield said in their Aug. 1 order that Shelly Hranka did not prove the Tazewell County States Attorneys office had a conflict of interest or was too biased against her to represent the county. Rather, they argued, if the countys top prosecutor, now Kevin Johnson, had not vigorously argued his case, then he wasnt being a good advocate for his client. As such, petitioners proposed approach would produce the perverse consequence of making the appointment of a special prosecutor more likely in cases where the underlying claims are less likely to succeed on the merits, based on the opinion of the constitutional officer best equipped to make such judgments, wrote Judge Eugene Doherty with Judges Kathryn Zenoff and Thomas Harris concurring. Hranka had filed suit in 2022, several years after her well-publicized tussle with the county board had come into focus. The board, like other counties including Peoria County, wanted to eliminate the job, saying it was redundant, not necessary and a product of a bygone era. In 2018, however, voters rejected that and voted to continue the position as an elected position. Local leaders react to Tazewell County voters decision to keep auditor position Before she was voted out of office, Hranka sued then States Attorney Stu Umholtz and Board Chairman David Zimmerman as well as a former auditor alleging they cut her budget and gutted her office. The suit, which was filed by her private attorney, sought reinstatement of those dollars. And it also sought for a special prosecutor an attorney not affiliated with the county to handle the countys defense. Umholtz refused, and Hranka eventually appealed to the 4th District. Eliminating the auditor position and using a financial officer has been a trend in Illinois. As of this year, only 16 of the 102 counties statewide have an elected auditor. Peoria County voters decided in the 2022 election to eliminate their auditor, a move that sparked two unsuccessful lawsuits by then Auditor Jessica Thomas. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. Appleton Transit Center set to receive major upgrades after $25M in funds secured Appleton Transit Center set to receive major upgrades after $25M in funds secured APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) Major upgrades are coming to the Appleton Transit Center following a $25-million investment from the Biden-Harris administration. On Tuesday, White House Senior Advisor Tom Perez joined Appleton Mayor Jake Woodford to highlight the federal funds secured by U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin to reconstruct the Appleton Transit Center. Neenah Animal Shelter moving pet cemetery to new location The reconstruction will improve safety and accessibility, create jobs, and build more affordable housing options. Additionally, the funds will be used to expand passenger amenities, add ADA features, and transit facilities, as well as transit operations. The funding comes from the Baldwin-backed Bipartisan Infrastructure Laws Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program. Green Bay Police Department investigating disturbance, look to identify woman allegedly involved I fought hard to bring home this funding to rebuild our outdated infrastructure, spur economic growth, and expand affordable housing options for working families, said Senator Baldwin. Baldwin continued on to say the new transit center will help ensure that everyone can get where they need to go safely and will make public transportation more convenient. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. More than 41,300 gun owners applied for carry permits in New Jersey after the U.S. Supreme Court in June 2022 declared a constitutional right to carry. That's 26 times as many applied in the two years before the ruling. (Aristide Economopoulos for New Jersey Monitor) More than 41,300 gun owners applied for gun carry permits in New Jersey in the two years since the U.S. Supreme Court upended gun restrictions around the country in a 2022 landmark ruling known as Bruen, according to state data. Thats 26 times more than the 1,588 people who sought permits in the two years before Bruen, in which the courts conservative majority declared a constitutional right to take guns outside the home for self-defense. The surge was a fraction of whats still to come, one gun rights advocate predicted. Scott Bach, executive director of the Association of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol Clubs, said some gun enthusiasts are waiting for legal fights over New Jerseys gun restrictions to end. When there is a final outcome to that litigation, I expect there will be another surge. There are people who just dont want to go through the intrusion and the trouble for a permit thats only good for two years until they can have full carry rights. There are a lot of people sitting on the sidelines waiting for the moment when unfettered carry permits will be issued, Bach said. Bachs group, along with several other gun rights advocates, challenged the law New Jersey legislators passed in the wake of Bruen that set wide-ranging new restrictions on gun carry in New Jersey. Both sides argued the issue in federal court in Philadelphia in October and are awaiting a decision. After the Bruen decision was released, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Col. Pat Callahan said he expected more than 200,000 people would apply for carry permits. Mary Kenah is policy counsel with Everytown for Gun Safety. She applauded state Attorney General Matt Platkin for putting data on gun carry permit applications online in a public database launched in March because it helps us to understand where and whom these permit applications are coming from so individuals can work alongside their lawmakers and local leaders to save lives in a post-Bruen world. Since the Supreme Courts misguided decision in Bruen, which lowered the bar for who can carry concealed handguns in public, New Jersey has seen a major increase in handgun carry permits, Kenah said. In response to this troubling increase, New Jersey lawmakers continue to push the envelope, enacting strong gun safety laws and implementing tools to keep our communities safe, especially as the Supreme Courts decision has dangerously widened the list of public places where guns are now allowed. The database, with deidentified data on gun owners who have applied for gun carry permits since December 2019, offers a peek into who wants to be armed when they leave their homes or businesses. It shows that residents of Ocean, Monmouth, and Bergen counties account for nearly a quarter of all applications filed since Bruen, accounting for 11,497 applications. Among New Jersey municipalities, Toms River tops the list with 862 applications, with Newark in second place with 845, followed by Vineland (482), Old Bridge (478), and Jackson Township (456). Residents outside of New Jersey applied for 1,989 permits. White men are the most likely to apply for a carry permit. About 38,500 men applied, compared to 2,800 women. Almost 33,800 applicants are white, nearly 4,900 are Black, 1,381 are Hispanic, and 1,017 applicants are Asian American Pacific Islanders. Applicants between the ages of 50 and 59 represent the biggest age group, with more than 9,800 applications filed. About 250 applicants were denied, more than half of them due to public health, safety and welfare concerns. Others were denied over criminal records, domestic violence charges, falsification, a background of alcoholism, or mental or medical issues. The New Jersey Monitor asked Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin (D-Middlesex) about the gun permit application data. His spokesman didnt comment directly on the data but said that Coughlin is confident the state would prevail in the ongoing legal challenge to its common sense gun restrictions. The NRA and other extremist groups have filed challenges to this and other gun safety laws, including limits on assault rifles and prohibition of weapons at political events. We are confident in the States position in these cases. Regardless, we will not be intimidated or discouraged. New Jersey has the third-lowest rate of gun deaths in the country because we have stood up to the NRA. We will continue to defend the right of every New Jerseyan to be safe from gun violence, said Chris Aikin, the spokesman. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Archaeologists found an ancient bust of the Greek god Zeus in western Turkey. Located right near the remains of a temple dedicated to Aphrodite, the statue is a remnant of one of the Roman Empires hotbeds of artistry. The city of Aphrodisias, because of its proximity to marble deposits, was a sculpture hub of the ancient world. Most human heads, if they were to stand on their own, measure just under 10 inches tall. However, it seems that the ancient Greek god Zeus had a much bigger noggin. The king of the gods head stood 22 inches tall. At least, a recently discovered marble bust of Zeus did. Archaeologists in Turkey discovered the loose Zeus head on land that now falls in the Western Turkey province of Aydin, but was once the ancient city of Aphrodisias (named for the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite). In the time of Roman rule, the empire looked upon the city with favorJulius Caesar himself claimed to be a descendent of Aphrodite (whom the Romans called Venus). A temple dedicated to the goddess was the first building constructed in what became the center of the city. Aphrodisias'ta benzersiz bir kesif: Kolosal Zeus Bas! Yuzyllar sonra gun sgyla yeniden bulusan mermer bas, Yunan mitolojisinde en guclu ve onemli tanr olan Zeusun ihtisamn sergiliyor. Aphrodite Tapnag'nn 50 metre batsnda bulunan bu onemli eser, sac ve sakaldaki pic.twitter.com/Re0C1JOwS7 Mehmet Nuri Ersoy (@MehmetNuriErsoy) July 30, 2024 According to a statement posted on social media by Turkeys Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, the statue head was found 164 feet from the remains of the Temple of Aphrodite, which itself was built in 3 B.C. Experts estimate that the statue of Zeus was built around the same time, if not a little bit later. With its wide eyes, bushy eyebrows, and mostly missing nose, the marble headwhich has since been cleaned of any remaining ancient dirtis a striking piece of artwork. Unfortunately, however, the rest of Zeus appeared to be on the loose. With a marble noggin over twice the size of the average humans, it stands to reason the rest of the statue would tower well over 10 feet tall in all its finely hewn glory. Except the head may have never even had a leg (or neck, or torso) to stand on. The back of Zeuss marble head appears to be attached to the makings of an architectural consolea decorative bracket used to support a shelf or windowhead. This could mean that, instead of a full representation of Zeus, the unearthed head is just... a head (albeit an exquisitely crafted one). But the quality craftsmanship isnt a surprise, considering its Aphrodisias origins. The ancient city, which sprung up around 3 B.C., became a hub for sculptors because of its proximity to rich marble quarries. As more and more sculptors went to Aphrodisias to work, more and more finely crafted marble statues (and raw marble) were sent out across both the Roman Empire and the rest of the Hellenistic world. This allowed for the city to amass a great deal of wealth. In fact, according to Arkeonews, The artisans of Aphrodisias portrait sculptures, building facades, and representations of the gods were highly sought-after across the empire as a result of the caliber and sophistication of their craftsmanship. But, unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. Aphrodisias status as an artistic hotbed of the empire was short-lived, and ended around 7 A.D. after an earthquake from which the city never recovered. It was then sacked numerous times and, by the middle ages, Turkey had assumed control. Still, the recovered Zeus bust serves as a historical reminder of the ancient citys wealth of artistic talent and role in the sprawling empire. You Might Also Like A Republican mayor in Arizona who bucked his party to endorse Vice President Harris was invited to attend the Democratic National Convention in Chicago later this month, he told The Arizona Republic on Monday. John Giles, mayor of Mesa, didnt commit to attending but said he did appreciate the invitation. He also said he will attend a Harris rally in Phoenix on Friday. Giles is among a rising number of elected and formerly elected Republicans backing Harriss campaign for president. In his endorsement last week, he said the Republican Party had lost track under former President Trump. Our party used to stand for the belief that every Arizonan, no matter their background or circumstances, should have the freedom, opportunity and security to live out their American Dream, he wrote. But since Donald Trump refused to accept the outcome of the 2020 election, Republicans have yet to course correct, Giles continued. The Republican Party with Trump at its helm continues down the path of political extremism, away from focusing on our fundamental freedoms. Giles further warned last week that he believes Trump wont leave office if he is elected to a second term. The Harris campaigns Republicans for Harris launch last week included 25 elected and formerly elected GOP officials backing the vice president. Giles is a co-chair of the group. It is headlined by former Trump administration aides Stephanie Grisham and Olivia Troye, as well as former Reps. Christopher Shays (R-Conn.), Joe Walsh (R-Ill.), Susan Molinari (R-N.Y.) and Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.). Other endorsements came from former GOP Govs. Bill Weld (Mass.), Christine Todd Whitman (N.J.) and Jim Edgar (Ill.), the campaign announced Sunday. It also highlighted that former Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan (R) endorsed Harris after backing President Biden. Trump led Biden in Arizona polling, though recent polls have shown Harris neck and neck with the former president in the state. Arizona Democrats hope having Harris at the top of the ticket can improve their chances of winning the states Senate race in November, where Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) is hoping to succeed the departing Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I). Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 08: (L-R) Special Assistant to the President Alexa Henning, Senior Advisor to President Donald Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner and White House Deputy Press Secretary Hogan Gidley walk out of the West Wing on the morning that the Labor Department announced that more than 20 million people lost their jobs in April due to the novel coronavirus pandemic May 08, 2020 in Washington, DC. "There is a lot of heartbreak and hardship in those numbers," White House Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow said. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Alexa Henning, Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders communications director, will leave her post later this month for a Washington D.C.-based public affairs firm, Henning announced Tuesday. Henning and Sanders first worked together in the White House in former President Donald Trumps administration. While Sanders served as Trumps press secretary, Henning was the director of broadcast media. As first reported in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Henning will leave the Natural State after serving as Sanders chief spokesperson for one year and eight months. Her last day will be Aug. 16. A new appointment has not yet been announced. I am grateful beyond words to the governor for putting her trust in me to serve the great State of Arkansas and thankful for her leadership and the remarkable team she leads, Henning said in a statement. Henning also noted anticipation for the remainder of Sanders administration what she said would be the next six and a half years and highlighted their friendship. According to the Arkansas Transparency website, which discloses state employees salaries, Henning earned $132,360 annually in her role with the executive office. Henning is listed as one of seven executive staff members who aid and advise the governor on various issues, though additional members of Sanders communications team are not included on the governors office website. Ive counted on [Henning] since our earliest days together in the Trump White House, Sanders said in a statement. She was a loyal staffer when I was press secretary, an effective adviser when I became governor, and a good friend throughout. Sanders expressed gratitude for Hennings work in her administration since she became governor in 2023, and wished her nothing but good luck [as] she takes this next step in her career. Hennings previous experience includes leadership roles for Wisconsins U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson, working with Texas U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and for Jamestown Associates, a political and public affairs firm. She is from Dallas and is a University of Missouri graduate. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Arkansas orders four pharmacy benefit managers to pay $1.47M in fines for underpaying drugstores Arkansas Pharmacists Association building, Little Rock (John Sykes/Arkansas Advocate) Arkansas officials on Tuesday ordered four nationwide pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to stop paying Arkansas pharmacies below the legally required amount for prescription drugs and to pay a cumulative $1.47 million in fines for having done so, according to a news release from Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders office. PBMs are companies that serve as middlemen to negotiate prescription benefits among manufacturers, distributors, pharmacies and health insurance providers. The companies rank prescription drugs, with the highest-tiered products costing consumers the lowest out-of-pocket costs. A 2015 Arkansas law required PBMs to pay pharmacies at least as much as the national average of what drugstores pay wholesalers for the drugs. The law was challenged in federal court upon its passage, and the U.S. Supreme Court reviewed the law in 2020. Arkansas Insurance Department Commissioner Alan McClain is seeking a $5,000 fine for each of the PBMs payments below the national average drug acquisition cost (NADAC) according to the news release. The four PBMs in question are: CVS Caremark with approximately 217 alleged violations Magellan with 50 alleged violations Express Scripts with 19 alleged violations MedImpact with an undisclosed number of alleged violations PBMs have been allowed to skirt the law for too long, Sanders said in the news release. Today my administration is taking an important step to holding Big Pharma accountable. We must make sure that our most vulnerable populations are protected and that starts with enforcing the law. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Express Scripts and Caremark are two of the three largest PBMs in the nation, with OptumRX being the third. On June 24, Attorney General Tim Griffin filed a Pulaski County Circuit Court lawsuit against Express Scripts and OptumRX, alleging that they used data from drug manufacturers and distributors to maximize their financial gain instead of using it to mitigate the opioid addiction epidemic. In May 2022, the state sued the drug manufacturers Novo Nordisk, Sanofi and Eli Lilly, accusing them of conspiring with Caremark, OptumRX and Express Scripts to inflate the cost of insulin. The case is still pending in Pulaski County Circuit Judge Mackie Pierces court. PBMs have long been a source of frustration for local pharmacies nationwide. Express Scripts, Caremark and OptumRX are owned by much larger corporations that each also own a top-10 health insurer, and the Federal Trade Commission released an interim report in July saying these conglomerates are eliminating competition and increasing drug prices at the expense of patients. Despite state regulations, independent pharmacies continue to see take-it-or-leave-it contracts and cuts in reimbursement, Blake Torres, owner of West Side Pharmacy in Benton, told the Legislatures Joint Performance Review Committee in August 2023. John Vinson, CEO of the Arkansas Pharmacists Association, told the Joint Insurance and Commerce Committee on June 5 that PBMs still overcompensate themselves and need to be regulated further. At the same meeting, Insurance Department general counsel Booth Rand said the department was receiving 1,500 complaints per month about PBMs illegally paying pharmacies below NADAC prices. He also said the department planned to start fining PBMs $5,000 per violation. Even if its 19 cents [below NADAC], theyre going to get fined, Rand said. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. News of VP Kamala Harris naming Minn. Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate on the Democratic ticket made political headlines around the country Tuesday morning, including with lawmakers and political figures in Arkansas. The news of the Walz pick came less than three weeks after President Joe Biden withdrew from his reelection campaign and endorsed Harris. Since then, many names were discussed as a running mate, with the final choices becoming like Walz, Penn. Gov. Josh Shapiro and Ariz. Sen. Mark Kelly. Arkansas lawmakers react to Biden dropping out of 2024 presidential race As the news came out of Walz being added to the ticket, many of the conservative lawmakers in office in Arkansas weighed in on the choice. Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders posted a concise take on the nomination to social media shortly after it was announced. In her first big decision Kamala reveals who she answers to the left, Sanders said. Robert Kennedy submits signatures for appearing on Arkansas ballot The often-outspoken Republican Sen. Tom Cotton took a firm stand using two points to oppose the Harris pick. First, Tim Walz let a bunch of violent BLM rioters burn Minneapolis to the ground in 2020. Kamala Harris raised money to bail them out, Cotton said. If you think letting violent criminals walk free is a good thing, this is the ticket for you. The second point was a more pointed attack, using a not-selected VP candidate to bolster it. Second, Kamala Harris took a pass on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro as her running mate. Why? Because hes Jewish, the senator continued. She didnt cave to the anti-Semitic, pro-Hamas wing of the Democrat Party. She belongs to the pro-Hamas wing of the Democrat Party. Cotton continued, calling Harris the most anti-Israel member of Joe Bidens team. Lawmakers respond to Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston rejecting abortion ballot petitions While many lawmakers currently representing Arkansas seemed ready to challenge Walz as a candidate, one of the biggest names from the Natural States political past came out to support him. Former Arkansas Governor and former President Bill Clinton took to social media to say Tim Walz has walked the walk, and hell be a great vice president, while lending his backing to the ticket. Kamala Harris made a terrific choice with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the former president wrote. His resume speaks for itself24 years in the Army National Guard; highest ranking noncom ever elected to Congress; 100% ratings from the AFL-CIO, Teamsters, and Planned Parenthood; twice-elected and beloved governor of a state with a rural and urban electorate that appreciate a no-nonsense leader whos worked across the aisle. Harris has enough Democratic delegate votes to be the partys nominee, committee chair says Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton joined her husband in showing support for Walz, saying he would be an incredible partner to our first women president. Im thrilled to see Tim Walz join the Democratic ticket, Clinton posted. From providing free meals for schoolkids to implementing paid family leave in Minnesota, hes about doing good in all the ways you can. Project 2025 director steps down amid Trump campaign criticism At the party level, Arkansas Democrats released a statement backing the ticket, with party chair Grant Tennille citing Walz leadership in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Governor Tim Walz is an Arkansas kind of choice, Tennille said. His leadership in Minnesota has been focused on creating a better state for families, kids, students, and working-class people. Tennille added that Army National Guard Veteran and public school educator Walz embodies values that will resonate with Arkansans. The Republican Party of Arkansas reposted a statement from Republican Congressman French Hill (AR-02) decrying Harris lack of decisiveness and liberal politics. Vice President Kamala Harriss indecisiveness and hand-wringing over choosing a running mate has given us the most liberal ticket in U.S. political history, Hill said. I served in the House with now-Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and know his politics well. Hill continued that Walz demonstrated a lack of leadership and was a California-style progressive. Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Sen. Tom Cotton speak on second day of Republican National Convention Walz is expected to be formally introduced by Harris at a rally in Pennsylvania on Tuesday night. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. BEIJING, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Water Resources and the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) on Tuesday evening issued red and orange alerts for mountain torrents. From 8 p.m. Tuesday to 8 p.m. Wednesday, mountain torrents are highly likely to hit certain areas in the provinces of Shaanxi and Gansu, according to a red alert issued by the two government departments. The two government departments also issued an orange alert for mountain torrents in some parts of Shanxi, Shaanxi and Gansu. Local authorities are advised to strengthen real-time monitoring and flood warning procedures amid preparations for evacuation measures. The water resources ministry launched a level-IV emergency response for flood prevention in Shanxi, Shaanxi, Gansu and Ningxia on Tuesday evening, urging local water conservancy departments in the regions to pay close attention to areas prone to flash floods and heavy rainfall. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the CMA jointly issued a yellow alert for geological disasters in some parts of Shaanxi and Gansu on Tuesday evening. Local residents are advised to remain vigilant against geological disasters triggered by precipitation within 24 hours, especially in areas near potential geological hazard sites. China has a four-tier weather-warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue. In its four-tier emergency response system for flood control, Level I is the most urgent response. (Getty Images) As Arkansas educators prepare their classrooms for students return this month, many will spend hundreds of dollars on materials that supplement supplies parents purchase for their children. The Arkansas LEARNS Act, a major education overhaul championed by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, raised the base pay for teachers to $50,000. But teachers say the pay increase isnt enough when they still use personal funds for classroom expenses throughout the year. Leron McAdoo typically spends at least $300 of his own money each year on utilitarian supplies for his classroom, such as educational and motivational posters, electrical cords and tape to display student work. He doesnt expect this year to be any different, especially as he works to stock a new classroom. McAdoo, who has 32 years of experience as an educator, is taking on a new role this school year as an interventionist teacher at Little Rock School Districts new Dr. Marian G. Lacey K-8 Academy. McAdoo said there is also a hidden cost of teaching, which can include buying students clothes or food if they need it. Actually reaching children is the fact that you have to be human and recognize and have empathy for the situations that the children find themselves in, McAdoo said. Are you going to let a child starve? The raises from the LEARNS Act arent enough when the money is going back to the classroom and not the teachers pocket, McAdoo said. Teachers are not making a lot of money in the first place, he said. So, any extra burden on them to add supplies you wouldnt ask that of a firefighter, you wouldnt ask that of an attorney, you wouldnt ask that of any other profession. But teachers are sort of expected by society to fill these gaps with their resources. Innovative solutions Arkansas school districts provide teachers with an annual budget to supply their classrooms, though the amount varies. The budget decisions are made at the local level, and the Department of Education does not track the data, spokesperson Kimberly Mundell said. In Rogers, teacher Samantha Harp is gearing up for her third year in the classroom, and her first time teaching fifth grade. Harp covers math, reading, writing, science and social studies on her own, which can lead to a lot of necessary supplies. Harp said she has about half of the supplies she needs for the upcoming school year by using items from her former third-grade classroom at a different district. And while the Rogers School District does provide Harp with some items she needs, she estimated that she will spend at least $500 to be fully prepared. One of Harps primary goals is to create a welcoming environment that her students want to return to. She also aims to keep kids engaged with activities off of the computer. Grade-appropriate books, stickers for good behavior incentives and manipulatives like magnetic blocks, dice games and fidget toys for kids to utilize when their work is complete are all things on Harps shopping list before the first day of school. Teachers that have been teaching for more than five years, they have a lot of what they need, Harp said. But Im still gathering all those things. I try to go on Facebook Marketplace or look at garage sales. The beginning of the year is especially difficult, Harp said, because she wont receive her first paycheck until mid-September. By the end of the school year, Harp said she will likely put $1,000 of her own money into her classroom. The raise from the LEARNS Act didnt have much of an effect on Harps salary, she said, but she did receive a routine raise from her previous employer. Aside from helping stay afloat with the current economy in Northwest Arkansas, Harp said the raise wasnt particularly helpful for supplementing extra supplies. Cara Maxwells experience as a Pre-K teacher in the Springdale School District which offered the highest starting pay in the state last year at $53,000 is a bit different than those working K-12, she said. Her district typically provides about $500 to $800 for annual supplies, most of which Maxwell spends on items her students will consume during the year. Even with the allotted budget, Maxwell chose to make an Amazon wishlist this year and post it online for people to donate to her classroom. She listed items that will be used year after year in her room including pillows for a cozy corner, fluorescent light covers to soften the room and various toys like Play-Doh, dice and a child-sized wheelbarrow. We are given a budget every year; however, a lot of the things that I put on there arent typically things that I would necessarily be able to buy, Maxwell said. I wouldnt be able to get everything. Some years I may need more supplies than others. Maxwell has been teaching for 10 years, and she said she is generally pretty comfortable when it comes to supplying her classroom with the necessary materials. She also typically participates in a grant matching program to further supply her room. Parents role Along with the cost teachers pay, most parents are also expected to send their children to school with fresh supplies for the year. According to an article published in The 74 last August that explored charity use among parents and teachers, the price for school supplies increased 28% from 2022. According to a study by World Remit, the average cost of school supplies per child in the United States last year was $229. Vann Vaupel, a parent of two students who attend the Conway School District, said while his family is currently in a good financial position, it wasnt always that way. We were struggling to pay our bills so an extra expense hurt especially for things they never ended up using, Vaupel said of past experiences. We would wait until the last minute because the money just wasnt there. The school supply list for one child attending third grade in the Conway School District totaled nearly $70 before taxes, according to a compilation of the products on walmart.com. By the time we went to the store almost everything was sold out, Vaupel recalled. We couldnt get the colors of folders and such our kids wanted, which can mean a lot to a young kid. It broke our hearts. Also waiting until the last minute can mean you have to buy more expensive options because the budget ones are sold out. Being broke can be very expensive. Vaupels children in public school will be going into 10th and third grade this year. In addition to buying their necessary supplies, Vaupel said he plans to donate to teachers who have posted wish lists for underprivileged students. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Army seeks help finding missing pregnant wife of soldier in Hawaii The pregnant wife of a U.S. soldier has been missing since last week, and the Armys Criminal Investigation Division is asking for help finding her. Mischa Mabeline Kaalohilani Johnson was last seen in her home on Schofield Barracks, Oahu, Hawaii, on Wednesday, and the department is offering $10,000 for information about her disappearance. Any person having credible information regarding Mrs. Johnsons disappearance and/or location is asked to contact Army CIDs Pacific Field Office at (808) 208-0059 or cid.army.mil/tips, said a spokesperson for the Army Criminal Investigation Division. Schofield Barracks is an Army base that houses the 25th Infantry Division. The Army was notified on Thursday that she was reported missing, according to the reward poster. Johnson is 5 feet, 2 inches tall, roughly 170 pounds, six months pregnant, and Filipino. She has a large dragon tattoo on her back. A reward poster offering $10,000 for credible information regarding Johnson's disappearance. (Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division) A Honolulu Police Department missing person release listed Johnson as 19 and described her as potentially being emotionally distraught. Johnson is known to frequent the Ewa Villages and Waikiki areas, said the release. Her family and friends are concerned for her safety and well-being. The police department instructed anyone with pertinent information to contact CrimeStoppers at 808-955-8300 or send anonymous web tips to www.honolulucrimestoppers.org or via the P3 Tips app. TANNERSVILLE, MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) A man was arrested after police say he was involved in a fight at Camelbeach Waterpark in Monroe County. On August 3 around 3:30 p.m., officers with the Pocono Township Police Department were called to Camelbeach for a report of a fight. Through further investigation, officers said they learned that a 54-year-old man from Bronx, New York assaulted another man which led to a fight. Driver wanted after alleged hit-and-run injures 13-year-old The accused was found inside his car and officers also believed he was under the influence of alcohol, police stated. The suspect was taken to the Monroe County DUI Center for processing. He is set to face the charges of DUI, simple assault, harassment, and disorderly conduct. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) A 42-year-old man was arrested Monday in connection to a shooting inside a Big Als strip club in downtown Peoria in July. No one was injured. According to an incident report from Semone Roth, a public information officer with the Peoria Police Department, Jerry Watson, 42, was arrested Monday in connection to a shooting on July 21 inside the strip club located in the 400 block of Southwest Jefferson Avenue in the city. On Monday, police found Watson at an apartment complex located in the 5400 block of Cypress Drive and took him into custody without incident. Following an interview at the department, officers officially arrested Watson. Police announced charges against him for one count each of aggravated discharge of a firearm, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, unlawful use of a weapon by a felon and reckless conduct. Watson remains in custody at the Peoria County Jail. On July, just before 3:30 a.m., officers with the department responded to a report of a fight inside the club. When officers arrived, they said they heard gunshots being fired from inside the building. There were no reported injuries at the time of the incident, and the suspect, later identified as Watson, left the scene. In October of last year, another shooting happened inside the club that left two people injured. Police said the suspect and the club bouncer got into an argument when the suspect went to his car parked outside, returned with a gun and shot the bouncer. The bullet went through the bouncer and stuck a second victim. The 35-year-old suspect was later found and arrested in the state of Georgia in connection to the incident. He was charged with attempted murder in connection to the shooting. Man arrested in connection with last years near deadly shooting at Big Als Man suffers life-threatening injuries early Monday after being shot at Big Als There were no further details regarding the incident at this time. This story will be updated. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. New Evansville Fire Department Chief Paul Anslinger spoke to reporters on Monday, Sept. 18, 2023, from the department's downtown headquarters. EVANSVILLE Former Evansville Fire Chief Paul Anslinger was arrested and charged with multiple felonies Tuesday after police say he misused department charitable funds, improperly kept a retired investigator's firearm, and used department power tools for personal use. In a news release, Evansville police said Anslinger has been charged with three felony counts of theft and one felony count of official misconduct. His highest charge is a Level 5 felony count of theft stemming from an allegedly stolen firearm. The probable cause affidavit filed in the case claims Anslinger took more $4,451 from the Evansville Fire Department Foundation a charitable fund he controlled and deposited the money into the account of Buffalo Gal Investments: a limited liability corporation that lists Anslinger as the registered agent. Indiana Secretary of State records also link it to his home address. Investigators then claim he transferred $4,000 of the money into a personal bank account bearing his name. In 2023, his last full year with the department, Indiana Gateway records show Anslinger made $124,409.28. He also received at $45.12 stipend for serving as a member of the Fire Pension Board. The Courier & Press filed a public records request with the City of Evansville on April 24 requesting what was paid out to Anslinger at his retirement. The city has not provided any records or denial of records as of Aug. 6. The affidavit also accuses Anslinger of keeping the department-issued issued firearm of a retired arson investigator without telling anyone, and only returning it when it was discovered missing well after his own retirement. Investigators also say he charged several power tools to EFD, hiding some and keeping others for personal use. A warrant was issued for his arrest on Tuesday. According to jail records, he was booked into Vanderburgh County jail at 3:46 p.m. By 4:30 p.m., he'd already been released on $1,000 cash bond / $10,000 surety. Anslinger retired from his position in April hours after he incurred a formal "notice of discipline." At that time, it was not revealed what the notice of discipline was for. Anslinger served as interim chief from September 2023 to January 2024 after longtime chief Mike Connelly also abruptly resigned in September amid accusations he had had secretly filmed a subordinate without their consent. Before that, Anslinger served as an assistant chief for more than a decade. When Mayor Stephanie Terry took office, she named Tony Knight as chief instead of Anslinger. When reached for comment Tuesday afternoon, EFD Chief Tony Knight directed all questions about the criminal charges and investigation to EPD. The missing gun According to the affidavit, the investigation began in April when Knight reportedly discovered "discrepancies" in equipment and budget audits. He soon asked a deputy chief and detectives with EPDs Financial Crimes Unit to help him look into several missing items. That eventually led them to an unaccounted-for Glock 21 handgun that once belonged to a retired arson investigator. According to the affidavit, the retired investigator told authorities he turned the gun over to Anslinger after his exit interview. They also spoke to Connelly, who said he never received the gun, and that he didnt give Anslinger permission to keep it. It was eventually listed in the National Crime Information Center. Financial crimes emailed Anslingers legal counsel , asked if he had the gun, and if he could return it. On May 7, counsel responded that Anslinger had turned it in, and police went and picked it up. Missing power tools Then there were the receipts from 2020 for slews of missing power cools: specifically 11 saws that tracked back to a purchase order with Anslinger's name on it. Five of the saws were for residential purposes not the kind EFD would use in rescue scenarios. On April 10, Knight and an EPD investigator spoke to Anslinger and showed him the receipts. "(The EPD investigator) reported Anslinger told them the tools were hidden away in (an EFD) warehouse and further stated he hid them there when they were purchased," the affidavit states. "Because he found out he wasn't going to be staying in his position, he lost interest and didn't bother to tell anyone he had them hidden." Through the investigation, only five of the saws were accounted for. "I guess I'll save myself the embarrassment," the affidavit quotes Anslinger as saying. "The saws are NOT stolen, but I probably misused my authority. I can account for all of them." He said he'd return them, but didn't say where all the tools were. Two days later, EFD deputy chiefs were cleaning out the warehouse when they reportedly found several black trash bags stuffed in a filing cabinet. Inside were several Milwaukee-brand power saws,. Two of them had been reported missing. Anslinger later returned six chainsaws to EFD, but all were in new condition. After investigators inspected them, they found the serial numbers on three of them didn't match the original purchase order, the affidavit states. Investigators later found they had been purchased just a few days after authorities questioned Anslinger about the missing items. In May, investigators reportedly returned the new saws to Anslinger via his attorneys office, and he in turn handed in three of the missing saws from the receipt. The returned saws appeared to have been used. Anslinger reportedly told investigators he took the saws to cut damaged trees after a recent storm. But the affidavit states the only storm that would have called for the saws took place after EFD changed the locks on the storage units were the saws were kept, leaving Anslinger unable to get them. "(He) would not have access to these tools, nor would he have permission to use them," the affidavit states. Instead, investigators believe Anslinger kept the saws in his personal possession for "an extended period of time" and "had no intention of the returning the property to the Evansville Fire Department, and only did so because it was discovered that these items were missing." Investigators claim he attempted to buy new saws to "conceal his wrongdoing." This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Former Evansville fire chief Paul Anslinger arrested Arrival of F-16s has not changed US' policy on Ukrainian strikes inside Russia The U.S. policy on Ukrainian strikes deep into Russian territory with American weapons remains unchanged, despite the arrival of F-16 fighting jets in Ukraine, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said during a press briefing on Aug. 5. The U.S. gave Ukraine permission on June 1 to use some American-supplied weapons, including HIMARS rockets, to strike targets in Russia located near the border with Kharkiv Oblast after Russia launched a renewed offensive in the region on May 10. Ukraine is still prohibited from using ATACMS and other long-range U.S.-supplied weapons for strikes deeper inside Russia. The United States will decide on the use of American-made weapons provided to Ukraine, including F-16 fighters, for strikes in Russia depending on the situation on the battlefield and the needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, according to Miller. "My answer has not changed today (Aug. 5), which is we constantly look at the needs of the Ukrainian military, we assess the security situation, and we try to be responsive to their needs," Miller said. This process "has been going on from the very beginning to the present day," the spokesperson added. President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on Aug. 4 that the first batch of F-16s had arrived in Ukraine and that the jets were already being used by Ukrainian pilots. Kyiv received a number of F-16s a year after the launch of the Danish-Dutch-led "fighter jet coalition" at the NATO summit in Vilnius in July 2023. Ukraine has been promised at least 79 F-16s from the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, and Belgium. The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon is an American air superiority fighter that Kyiv has requested from its partners since the start of the full-scale invasion. Read also: How F-16s in Ukraine can help fight Russia Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Morrisville, VT A traveling artist is dedicating herself to creating community murals in one small town in each state, and this week she set her sights on Vermont. For her 13th stop, Artist and Muralist Cheyenne Renee is partnering with a nonprofit community arts center, named River Arts, in Morrisville. Cheyenne Renees 50 in 50 project is all about her mission to create community murals across every state. Renee told us that The goal of the project is to highlight small communities or small organizations like this non-profit, and really create a unique web of communities for people to travel in a more unique way. Renee is currently working with River Arts summer camp tweens to create the mural design, a first for the muralist and this project. The Virginia based artist is helping tweens learn how to improve their art skills while reflecting on what represents Vermont. The 824 inch mural is set to highlight a historic train, the Lamoille river, and Vermonts iconic mountain ridges. The mural will be finished by August 11th and mounted on the side of a nearby warehouse. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. TechCrunch Lawyers representing Sam Bankman-Fried, the FTX CEO and co-founder who was convicted of fraud and money laundering late last year, are seeking a new trial. Following crypto exchange FTXs collapse, Bankman-Fried was found guilty on all seven counts, then sentenced to 25 years in prison and ordered to pay $11 billion in forfeiture. Bloomberg reports that Bankman-Frieds appeal focuses on the behavior of U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan, alleging that Kaplans rulings were not just erroneous but unbalanced and that the judge continually ridiculed Bankman-Fried during trial, repeatedly criticized his demeanor, and signaled his disbelief of Bankman-Frieds testimony. Assassination is always unlawful regardless of who is killed and on whose orders Assassination is a particular form of murder. Regardless of who carries out the act, on whose orders or why, it is always unlawful. This is the reason Vadim Krasikov was languishing behind bars in Germany prior to being released on Aug. 1, 2024, as part of a historic prisoner exchange. Krasikov was serving a life sentence for killing exiled Chechen separatist Zelimkhan Khangoshvili in a Berlin park in 2019. The German court that sentenced him found that he was carrying out the Kremlins orders; his victim had fought Russian forces in the Chechen wars and was suspected of terrorist attacks in Moscow. But neither of these factors provide legal justification for the killing. The same is true in the case of Ismail Haniyeh, a Hamas political leader. He was killed on July 31, 2024, while in Tehran at the invitation of the Iranian government. The Israeli government, which is widely believed to be behind the killing, has repeatedly expressed a willingness to hunt down Hamas leadership around the world following the groups deadly attack on Oct. 7, 2023. Israel has carried out many such assassinations in Iran, Lebanon and elsewhere over the years. Despite these and other international cases, the term assassination is not defined under international law. Legal scholars like me rely on standard dictionary definitions where assassination is defined as murder by sudden or secret attack often for political reasons. But treaties and other international law do make clear that killing for political reasons by sudden or secret attack is unlawful. The most important treaty on this question is the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights adopted in 1966 by the United Nations and binding today on 174 states, including Russia, Israel and the United States. The covenant affirms: Every human being has the inherent right to life. This right shall be protected by law. No one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his life. Treacherous acts This does not mean that deliberate killing can never be justified. International law contains rules that determine when it is permissible to use deadly force. In peacetime, it is lawful for police to use lethal force to save lives in immediate danger. Officers killed the man who shot at Donald Trump, for example, to prevent the gunman from shooting again, as lives were in immediate danger. The use of military force against another state is regulated under the United Nations Charter. The Charter prohibits all uses of force, unless authorized by the U.N. Security Council or in a case of self-defense. The charter allows a state to use force in individual or collective self-defense if an armed attack occurs until the Security Council can act. The U.N.s International Court of Justice has further clarified that even when a state has the right of self-defense, military action in response must be necessary, proportionate and aimed at a sovereign state responsible for the initial armed attack. The court has repeated these principles in multiple decisions, most comprehensively in a case brought by Iran following lethal U.S. attacks on its oil platforms in the Persian Gulf. Once an armed conflict has begun, parties to the fighting have the right to use lethal force to defeat the adversary. International humanitarian law permits intentional killing of enemy fighters within legally defined armed conflict hostilities. Even then, no one may be singled out for killing based on what they did in the past. And civilians not participating in the fighting may never be intentionally targeted. Recent international decisions support the importance of the concept of restricting the killing of fighters to within active zones of hostilities. Outside such areas, the peacetime human right to life applies. The European Court of Human Rights has emphasized this point in a series of rulings, most recently in early 2021. These decisions contradict an older view held by some in the U.S. military that political or military leaders of a wartime adversary may be killed wherever they are found. As a political leader of a party at war with Israel in Gaza, Haniyeh might fit this older interpretation. However, it still would not extend to killing treacherously or perfidiously, as laid out in the binding regulations annexed to Hague Convention IV of 1907. To kill treacherously or perfidiously means to kill someone who has no expectation of being in danger of death. For example, a soldier who falsely raises a white flag of surrender to lure an enemy in close enough to kill them would be guilty of killing treacherously. Haniyeh had such an expectation of safety in Tehran, and as such his killing can be seen as treacherous. A double standard All principles on the use of lethal force under international law rule out assassination. And yet, countries including Israel, Russia and the U.S. persist in using it. A few others France, India, North Korea, Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom have used it in a few infamous, high-profile cases. Israel has acknowledged responsibility for assassinations dating to even before its founding. The U.S. has joined the rest of the world in criticizing these killings. In 1988, for example, Israel assassinated a PLO leader named Khalil al-Wazir in Tunisia. The U.N. Security Council condemned the operation in a resolution that the U.S. refused to veto. To try to mollify critics, Israel began referring in 2000 to its practice of assassination as targeted killings. The term makes it sound more like the legitimate killing in wartime. In 2001, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Martin Indyk rejected Israels attempt to legitimize assassination when he said on Israeli television: The United States government is very clearly on the record as against targeted assassinations. They are extrajudicial killings, and we do not support that. Then the Sept. 11 attacks occurred and the U.S. itself adopted the practice of targeted killing. The first known case was carried out by the CIA against six suspected members of al-Qaida in Yemen in November 2002. The killings were condemned as unlawful by a U.N. human rights expert soon after. Yet, U.S. killings with drones and other means have continued to this day. All the while, the U.S. has consistently condemned Russian assassinations. What many international law experts, including me, see is a U.S. double standard when it comes to the use of lethal force, including its use in assassination. While efforts may have been made to mount a defense of assassinations such as that of Hamas Haniyeh, there is a simple truth: Lethal force is highly restricted, and assassination is never legal. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Mary Ellen O'Connell, University of Notre Dame Read more: Mary Ellen O'Connell does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. KABUL, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Afghan caretaker government has announced the formation of a committee to address issues faced by villages situated along the borders with neighboring countries, the administration's deputy spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat said on Monday night. The committee has been tasked with addressing the needs of the local villagers by providing essential services, including building roads, establishing telecommunication networks, setting up clinics and schools, and supplying potable water and other necessities, according to the official. The Afghan reclusive supreme leader has also instructed the Ministry of Finance to fund the necessary budget of the committee to address the challenges in the border areas, he said on social media platform X. Many Afghan villages, particularly those in remote areas and along the borders with neighboring countries, are without basic supplies and infrastructure facilities such as drinking water, hospitals, electricity, and schools. Atlanta police want to identify man who tried to snatch money from woman at ATM Investigators with the Atlanta Police Departments Robbery Unit are asking for the publics help in identifying a man they say tried to steal money from a woman at an ATM. On July 9, just before 2 p.m., officers responded to the Bank of America located at 2625 Piedmont Road NE about a reported attempt at a snatch theft. Officers spoke with a woman who said that while she was at the ATM, a man approached her and tried to snatch the money that was in her hand. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] She said she struggled with the man but he wasnt able to take it away from her. She described the man as a dark-skinned Black man, possibly around 18 years old, with a slim build, short dreadlocks, standing about five feet seven inches tall, and wearing a white v-neck t-shirt and gray jeans with a red design along the pant legs. If you recognize him, you are urged to call the Crime Stoppers Atlanta tip line at 404-577-8477. Tipsters can be eligible for up to a $2,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and indictment of the suspect. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: Cross-border fighting between Hezbollah and Israel continued to heat up ahead of an expected massive attack by Iran and its regional proxies. They are vowing vengeance for two recent assassinations, one on July 30 of Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut, and the other on July 31 of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Hezbollah said it carried out several attacks, including hitting Israeli military bases. The Lebanese militant group also said at least five of its fighters were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Israeli officials said at least 17 people were injured so far in waves of Hezbollah drone strikes on northern Israel, according to official Israel Army Radio. Those attacks are continuing, the outlet reported. : -20 , https://t.co/D6bXNblLS3 (@GLZRadio) August 6, 2024 Video and images emerged on social media of the Hezbollah drones flying overhead and exploding on the ground. Smoke can be seen rising from Impact Sites in Northwestern Israel, after the Israeli Air Defense Array had Totally Failed to Intercept several Drones coming from Southern Lebanon. pic.twitter.com/Ays9yNjzEm OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) August 6, 2024 Hezbollah Suicide drone spotted over Nahariya, the northernmost coastal city of Israel. No Iron Dome interception. The drone has hit an Israeli military camp between Acre and Nahariya. pic.twitter.com/08H0AL8K7w Nafiseh Kohnavard (@nafisehkBBC) August 6, 2024 In one event on Tuesday, several Israelis were injured, at least one critically, by what the IDF now says was a malfunctioning air defense interceptor. Described in some media reports as fired from an Iron Dome launcher, it struck a heavily traveled roadway near the northwestern Israel city of Nasariya. Following the report earlier today regarding a fallen hostile aircraft on Route 4 to the south of Nahariya, an initial inquiry indicates that an interceptor missed the target and hit the ground, injuring several civilians, the IDF said on Telegram. The incident is under review. Route 4 is a major Israeli coastal artery from the Lebanese border south to the Gaza border. IDF initially said that a number of hostile UAVs were identified crossing from Lebanon. One of the UAVs was intercepted. Several civilians were injured to the south of Nahariya during the incident. A woman was wounded by shrapnel hundreds of meters away from the impact on the highway, and at a separate location, another five people were lightly hurt by a blast, according to medics, Several of those drones also hit the Nahariya area, Times of Israel reporter Emanuel Manny Fabian reported on Twitter. The IDF says the impact on the Route 4 highway near Nahariya amid a Hezbollah drone attack on the Western Galilee was an Iron Dome interceptor missile that malfunctioned. "According to an initial investigation, it emerged that it was an interceptor that missed the target and https://t.co/6DnmHLUJXS Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) August 6, 2024 That incident outraged at least one Israeli, who complained about the Israeli governments response to the ongoing Hezbollah attacks. Are we guinea pigs? Avi Ezran, an eyewitness who was hit by shrapnel, asked a reporter from Israels N12 news outlet. Everyone here is on pills, you cant live like this. The north is disintegrated and this government has failed. ? , . : , @sharonknoblich pic.twitter.com/xruREWZXvI N12 (@N12News) August 6, 2024 There were other Hezbollah attacks all along the region just south of the border Hezbollah said it struck the headquarters of the Golani Brigade and Egoz Unit 621 in the Shraga barracks, north of Acre causing confirmed casualties, according to the LOrient Today news outlet. The Lebanese militant group also claimed it targeted a deployment of Israeli soldiers at the Abu Dajaj hills near Zarit barrackswith several artillery shells, the publication reported. The militant group also claimed at least five of its fighters were killed by an Israeli airstrike on Mayfadoun in southern Lebanon near the city of Nabatieh. The Israeli Air Force released a video of that strike. , ", , . . , pic.twitter.com/hF5L5fi62b Israeli Air Force (@IAFsite) August 6, 2024 Irans official Press TV news outlet released images of the aftermath of that attack. The reported results of an Israeli airstrike on the Lebanese town of Mayfadoun. Press TV Another purported view of the results of that attack. Press TV Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on Tuesday issued new threats against Israel. Our response will come and it will be strong, influential, and effective, Nasrallah said during a memorial for Shukr in Beirut, according to the Telegram channel of the Hezbollah-affiliated Al-Maydeen news outlet. There are still days, nights, and battlefields between us and them. Nasrallah chided Israel for being weak and seeking help from the U.S. and its allies. He also called on Iranian proxy groups in Iraq and Syria to join a coordinated attack that will likely include not just Iran and Hezbollah, but the Houthi rebels in Yemen as well. Shortly before he gave his speech, Israel delivered a message of its own, with Israeli Air Force combat jets creating sonic booms over Beirut. Just two minutes before Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah is set to give an address, Israeli warplanes break the sound barrier over Beirut, causing the most intense and prolonged sonic booms (over Beirut) since October 7. (Not my videos) pic.twitter.com/2cuhiV4qf9 Lara Bitar (@LaraJBitar) August 6, 2024 Ahead of that looming attack, Russia delivered unspecified advanced radars and air defense systems to Iran, according to The New York Times. As we reported on Monday, Sergei Shoigu, the Secretary of Russias Security Council and former defense minister, visited with Iranian leaders in Tehran. During that meeting, he conveyed a message from his president. Vladimir Putin urged Irans Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for a restrained response to Israels suspected killing of the leader of Hamas, advising against attacks on Israeli civilians, Reuters reported on Tuesday. The outlet cited two senior Iranian sources. Iranian officials also pressed Moscow for the delivery of Russian-made Su-35 Flanker-E combat jets, according to Reuters. You can read more about that potential deal and how Iran has supplied Russia with drones to fight Ukraine in our deep dive here. Tehran has continued to press Moscow for Su-35 Flanker E fighters. Russian Defense Ministry Amid the ongoing umbrage in the Middle East over the Haniyeh and Shukr assassinations, a federal indictment was unsealed in Washington D.C. charging an Iran-connected man from Pakistan with seeking to kill former President Donald Trump and other officials. The U.S. is accusing Asif Merchant, 46, of going to New York City and working with a hit man to carry out the assassinations in late August or early September, according to charges filed by federal prosecutors in Brooklyn, New York. The would-be hitman turned out to be a law enforcement officer. This plot was what triggered the Secret Service to increase security for Trump before the assassination attempt on him last month in Pennsylvania, according to CNN. While Israel and Hezbollah exchanged blows, the bloody fight in Gaza continued unabated. Several Israeli troops were injured and a humanitarian road was shut down after anti-tank missiles were fired toward them during operations in Rafah, ABC News reported. Meanwhile, in the occupied West Bank, Israeli forces killed at least 12 Palestinians as they launched several raids in different locations, according to Al Jazeera. Palestinians inspect the destruction following an Israeli raid in Jenin city in the occupied West Bank on August 6, 2024. Photo by Jaafar ASHTIYEH / AFP JAAFAR ASHTIYEH As another day passes, the world remains on edge over what might happen next. Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com Left to right are Angelica Infante-Green, Rhode Islands education commissioner, Rep. Joseph McNamara, a Warwick Democrat, in light tan suit, and North Providence Mayor Charles Lombardi on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current) Rhode Island kids arent skipping school as much as they used to. In the 2023-2024 school year, there were 244,375 fewer absences across Rhode Islands public schools, the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) announced at a Tuesday morning presser. The department estimated thats equivalent to about 1.3 million hours of learning time. Overall, the increased attendance numbers represent a 4.2 percentage point decrease in chronic absenteeism from the previous academic year. There were 5,955 fewer students who were chronically absent, which is defined as missing at least 10% of the school year, or about two days a month. Angelica Infante-Green, the states education commissioner, said those numbers are a big win, even if chronic absenteeism rates still exceed pre-pandemic levels. For people that may say, Thats not big enough. Youre right. But its big, Infante-Green told the audience gathered in the Governors Room of the Rhode Island State House. We cannot support students if theyre not in school. Students in kindergarten through fifth grade saw the biggest reduction (5.1 percentage points) in chronic absenteeism. Three public charter schools Trinity Academy for the Performing Arts, Excel Academy and The Compass School saw the highest reductions in their absenteeism rates. Providence Public Schools was the most successful school district with a loss of 12.1 percentage points. Some districts already had lower rates of chronic absenteeism, the commissioner added, so decreases seen this year werent as dramatic. The commissioner was joined by several education stakeholders as well as Gov. Dan McKee and Rep. Joseph McNamara, the Warwick Democrat who chairs the House Committee on Education. Tuesdays assembly was meant to publicize successes in the past year as well as RIDEs refreshed efforts in its Attendance Matters campaign, launched in November 2023. As the school year approaches, the anti-absenteeism campaign will see an increased media presence with bus ads and TV and radio commercials. You know those videos on YouTube that you see before you go to the information you wanna see? Weve got those. So dont click by them, Infante-Green said. Marketing campaign makes school cool The 2024-2025 school year will begin with a returning ad campaign that includes a new batch of promotional interviews with notable Rhode Islanders like Tropicana Danny, a Providence Place Mall security guard known on TikTok for his dancing. The Partnership for Rhode Island provided $50,000 for the suite of interview videos and interviewees donated their time. WellMet Digital produced the content, which is now available on RIDEs YouTube channel. If youre not present in school, youre gonna miss out on a lot of stuff, says Tropicana Danny in one video. A separate budget of $15,000 was used on an animated spot with both English and Spanish voiceovers. It was produced by DDL Advertising, who has also done work for the Rhode Island Lottery, PVDFest and Rhode Island Colleges Hope scholarship. Chronic absenteeism reached its apex during the pandemic, with 46,328 students consistently missing classes in the 2021-2022 school year. Before the pandemic, chronic absences hovered around 26,000 for three years in a row and dipped to their lowest in the 2019-2020 school year. But in the 2020-2021 school year, there were over 37,794 students who took more than a few days off from school. For people that may say, Thats not big enough. Youre right. But its big. We cannot support students if theyre not in school. Angelica Infante-Green, commissioner of the Rhode Island Department of Education, on the reduced absenteeism rates in the 2023-2024 school year Students who regularly miss school fall behind on learning, sometimes to significant detriment. WWhen it comes to standardized tests like the SAT or Rhode Island Comprehensive Assessment System (RICAS), RIDE data suggests 20-26% of chronically absent students lacked proficiency compared to their peers with better attendance. The achievement gap was most severe on the SATs English language arts portions. Math scores have trouble breaking 40% proficiency even among student demographics with good attendance. But only about or slightly above 10% of chronically absent students were proficient on math assessments. The states attendance data is robust and monitored in real time, with numbers submitted daily by local school districts and then synchronized with RIDEs databases. This leaderboard, along with social media posts that shower praise on schools who buck the trend with good attendance, has led to national attention for Rhode Islands efforts. We are the only state that has this leaderboard, Infante-Green said. Great Britain came to us. Hawaii came to us to build this. There are other states now that are looking at what were doing and starting to build it for themselves. Im OK with the national attention, but Id rather see the results right here in Rhode Island, McKee said. Educating parents Rhode Islands absenteeism strategy was also examined by a report published Tuesday by think tank Future Ed. Report author Liz Cohen relayed an anecdote from Infante-Green, who described calling a parent whose child had missed three weeks of school. Was there a doctors note? No, the mother said, but she was giving her daughter medicine and it made her sleepy during the day. So the daughter stayed up late playing video games, making her unable to attend school the following day. The mother lamented that her daughter didnt listen to her. What was clear to me is that habits have fallen. People have abandoned the habit of going to school every day, Infante-Green told Cohen. She reiterated that sentiment to reporters Tuesday: Weve heard from parents that they dont feel that two days a month was a big deal. It is a big deal. It adds up to 18 days a year, which is almost a month of school. Could the reduction in chronic absenteeism be attributed to a natural dip in pandemic-associated absenteeism? Well, I think, maybe, Infante-Green told reporters. However, when we have parents that were saying to us that attendance didnt matter that is speaking to us on the shift that has happened. So that is the real shift. Correlating parental attitudes to attendance trends is relatively new for RIDE, Infante-Green said, and its contributed to the collective effort to restore attendance to pre-pandemic levels. In the 2024 SurveyWorks, when asked how much missing two days of school a month impacted a students chances of graduating high school, 57% of parents said the negative impact was either tremendous or quite a bit. A little over 3,000 parents thought missing that much school did not affect their students graduation chances at all. But 74% of parents whose own education never went past the eighth grade thought it was a serious issue indeed, and responded that the impact would be serious. Conversely, only 54% of parents who had four-year college degrees answered the question affirmatively. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX This story was updated. An earlier version of this story had an incorrect name for The Partnership for Rhode Island. CEDAR RAPIDS U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland met with local and federal law enforcement leaders here Tuesday, part of what he described as a strategy to strengthen partnerships across law enforcement. Following his appearance, the Department of Justice announced Garland will attend a National Night Out event in Urbandale, beginning at 5 p.m. in the front parking lot of the police department at 3740 86th St. and in an adjacent soccer field. Garland, who heads the Justice Department, spoke briefly to reporters and did not take questions before his meeting, which was attended by officials from multiple federal agencies as well as the Linn County sheriff and Cedar Rapids police chief. He said he views local and interagency partnerships as "the most powerful tool we have to address violent crime." From left, Linn County Sheriff Brian Gardner, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Iowa Timothy Duax and Cedar Rapids Police Chief David Dostal meet with other law enforcement personnel Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024 at the U.S. Attorneys Office in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He praised the work of Timothy Duax, the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Iowa, and touted the work Duax's office has done in recent years, such as the sentencings last month of two alleged gang members to more than 15 years in prison for shipping fentanyl from Arizona to Sioux City for sale. On a national level, Garland also noted Tuesday's announcement of charges against a Pakistani man with links to Iran who is accused of plotting to hire a gunman to kill an unnamed U.S. political leader. Authorities allege the plot was in response to the 2020 killing of senior Iranian Gen. Qasem Soleimani on orders of the Trump administration for his past involvement in the killings of Americans and alleged plans for future attacks. "For years, the Justice Department has been working to aggressively counter Iran's brazen and unrelenting efforts to retaliate against American government officials for the killing of General Soleimani," Garland said, adding that he anticipates there will be future cases and plots linked to Iran as well. Tuesday's case has no apparent connection with the attempted assassination last month of former President Donald Trump in Pennsylvania, Garland said, and he reiterated that "the FBI has stated multiple times, we have not found any evidence that the shooter had accomplices or co-conspirators." Before being appointed attorney general in 2021, Garland was a federal judge and, before that, a Department of Justice prosecutor, handling high-profile cases including the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing. President Barack Obama nominated him to the U.S. Supreme Court in 2016, but the then-Senate majority leader, Mitch McConnell, a Kentucky Republican, blocked Garland's confirmation, saying whoever won the November presidential election that year should make the pick. Trump, who defeated Democrat Hillary Clinton, instead nominated now-Justice Neil Gorsuch. The annual National Night Out event Garland will attend in Urbandale has previously received recognition as among the best of its kind in the country, according to the city. Seeking to enhance the relationship between police and the community, it is a free, festival-like gathering with officers on hand and activities including a petting zoo, musical performances, bounce houses, patrol car and fire engine displays and a K-9 demonstration, among other attractions. William Morris covers courts for the Des Moines Register. He can be contacted at wrmorris2@registermedia.com or 715-573-8166. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: U.S. AG Merrick Garland meets law enforcement leaders in Cedar Rapids What the attorney general wants consumers to know about Colorados lemon law DENVER (KDVR) Colorado lawmakers updated the states lemon law during this years legislative session, and the newly expanded provisions of the motor vehicle consumer protection law will go into effect Wednesday. Colorados lemon law, which used to be one of the worst in the country, just got a lot better for consumers, said Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser in a release Tuesday. These new Colorado laws go into effect Aug. 7 If youre in the market for a new vehicle, you can breathe a little easier knowing you now have more protections against buying a lemon, Weiser continued. And if youre buying used, you now have more information and negotiating power if you want to buy a lemon buyback vehicle from a dealer. In general, the law requires manufacturers or an authorized dealer to buy back or replace a motor vehicle if a consumer notified the dealer about an issue with the vehicle within the warranty period, or within a year of the cars original delivery. Lemon law features Colorado consumers should know The law expands several previous provisions of the states lemon law, including: Increasing which vehicles are subject to the law to include cars used by small businesses, both for business and personal purposes Extending the laws duration to two years after purchase, or within the first 24,000 miles of the cars operation: Whichever comes first Lowers the requirements for a vehicle to be presumed a lemon Instead of four failed repairs, only three attempts are now required for the same defect, or if the vehicle has been out of service for repair for 24 or more business days, down from 30 cumulative business days If the defect significantly affects the vehicles safety, the car can be presumed a lemon after two failed repairs Extends the timeframe for consumers to file a claim to 30 months after the vehicle is delivered, instead of six months after the manufacturers warranty expires. Time that the vehicle is under repair and unusable is not counted toward the limit Clarifies the amount that can be deducted from a consumers refund by creating a formula for the manufacturer Requires a decal to be placed on lemon buyback vehicles, as well as a notation on the vehicle title The law is designed to provide consumers with a fair, predictable and reliable process for consumers who are trying to be made whole after purchasing a defective motor vehicle. However, the Colorado Attorney Generals Office recommends that consumers still do their homework when purchasing any vehicle. Experts warn fluctuations in gas prices could indicate economic health Research different makes and models of vehicles to ensure quality and reliability, test drive the vehicle first, have the vehicle examined by a trusted mechanic, ensure the dealer is reputable, and familiarize yourself with any warranty details, the office recommended. Colorado residents who believe they have bought a defective vehicle or anyone with consumer issues can visit StopFraudColorado.gov to file a complaint with the attorney general. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. TechCrunch Tesla loves to put on a show, and Thursdays Robotaxi reveal might just be the flashiest of them all. The electric vehicle maker is slated to unveil its much-hyped Robotaxi vehicle at Warner Bros. Discoverys movie studio in Burbank, California. Tesla will livestream the "We, Robot" event on X, which Elon Musk owns. The former city clerk of Delhi is involved in an investigation of tens of thousands of dollars in improper spending of city funds, according to the state auditor. (Photo via Google Maps) Iowa Auditor Rob Sand said Tuesday a special investigation of the eastern Iowa city of Delhi revealed about $66,000 in improper payments and about $13,000 in unsupported spending from January 2015 to June 2022. The audit came from a request by city officials following concerns about financial transactions made by former Delhi City Clerk Lori Tucker, according to the audit report. The investigation period covers nearly Tuckers entire tenure as Delhi city clerk. This is another example of why it is so important for government entities to have policies in place and procedures in place that allow for and encourage proper oversight of your tax dollars, Sand said in a press conference after the audits release. Its also important that then they follow those policies and procedures to try to help minimize the risk of things like this happening. Because city records were not sufficiently maintained, Sand said there may be more improperly spent funds outside the $66,000 identified in the audit report. Upon review of city hall security footage, state officials discovered Tucker telling the former mayor of Delhi that she would leave Delhi high and dry, according to the audit report. Sand said results of the investigation have been reported to the Delaware County attorney and the state attorney generals office for potential criminal charges. City officials were also concerned that Tucker, who also worked at the nearby City of Ryan, was on the clock for Delhi while working at Ryan and that she did not properly split reimbursements between the two cities, according to the audit report. There is another ongoing investigation into the City of Ryan which is nearing completion, Sand said. $66,000 of improper payments As city clerk, Tucker was responsible for issuing her own payroll as well as disbursements for the city. Of the 160 timesheets reviewed by the auditors department, 130 of them included excess hours which resulted in Tucker earning over $21,000 in excess wages, according to the audit report. As a result of those excess hours put on her payroll, Tucker accrued around $8,000 of improper disbursements from unearned vacation hours, unapproved insurance stipends and excess longevity payments, the audit report alleged. According to the audit report, Tucker awarded herself 56 hours of paid time off (PTO) per year when she was only entitled to 40 hours of PTO per year. In interviews with state officials, Tucker defended herself and said she never put more hours on her timesheet that she didnt work, according to the audit report. Unless there was work to do, I wasnt working more hours to go over, I had other things to do, I had two other jobs, Tucker said in an interview with state officials, the audit report stated. There wasnt anybody there to do the job when I wasnt there. Tucker also improperly issued around $21,000 to a Health Savings Account (HSA) by directly transferring funds from the citys checking account to her HSA, the audit report alleged. Per Internal Revenue Service (IRS) rules, payments to an HSA should have been a pre-tax deduction from Tuckers gross payroll. The audit report also noted $1,300 in excess insurance premiums which should have been paid by Tucker directly but instead were paid by the city. The audit report also found about $600 of improper purchases made with the citys credit card. Because Tucker failed to pay the balance of the credit card on time, Tucker paid multiple late fees using the citys credit card. While Tucker was entitled to reimbursements for travel, the reimbursements were supposed to be preapproved and related to her work as the city clerk, according to the audit report. The audit report found 19 different improper reimbursement checks worth over $300 which allegedly came from Tucker over-reporting her car mileage, reimbursing travel costs from her home to city hall, and purchases of snacks and drinks for city council meetings. Unrelated to Tuckers case, the city paid a former maintenance employee around $250 more than it should have in excess insurance premiums, Sand said. The same former maintenance employee also established an HSA and, in several instances, avoided pre-tax deductions while the city still paid into the employees HSA, according to the audit report. The report estimates around $7,000 in costs. A former maintenance employee also had three improperly disbursed medical payments for which the city paid over $5,000, according to the audit report. The employee disbursed out-of-pocket costs associated with a baby delivery of the employees spouse, a chest X-ray and type of CT scan, and the medical balance of a dependent of the former employee. The remaining improper disbursements came from late fees and interest made to pension funds because reports were not filed in a timely manner, according to the audit report. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST $13,000 in unsupported payments Unlike the improper disbursement, the $13,000 unsupported disbursements lack documentation for the state auditors department to conclude whether the payments were proper. Sand said there was no evidence to suggest that documents were intentionally destroyed to hide evidence. More than $6,000 in purchases via the citys credit card and over $5,000 of disbursements from the citys checking account to individuals or vendors were identified as unsupported in the audit report. Sand also said the audit found nearly $1,600 of unsupported disbursements which stem from Tucker failing to list a reason for the payment. A former maintenance employee was also issued around $83 in unsupported disbursements, according to the audit report. Other findings and conclusions of the report A review of security footage showed the former mayor of Delhi signing off on Tuckers time-off request despite not being Delhis mayor at the time, according to the audit report. The audit report also noted numerous instances of Tucker working for the City of Ryan on Delhis computer. According to the audit report, the city violated state law on multiple occasions by donating money to private non-profits. At the end of the audit report, state officials called on the city to make changes. Among those changes were to have more internal and external reviews of the citys disbursements, payrolls, credit cards and donations. Audit officials in the report also called on Delhi city officials to do a better job segregating city duties. The report also asked city officials to tie the citys checking account history to the citys monthly accounting records. Sands office in the report also requested that all purchases made via the citys credit card be pre-approved, include documentation and be reviewed by an independent person. Furthermore, the audit report called for all disbursements to have supporting documentation, be pre-approved and have a public purpose. In the press conference about the investigation, Sand said to prevent the embezzlement of tax dollars from happening again, the state needs to pass stricter criminal legislation for embezzlement. We are years past due for the Legislature to make it a mandatory prison sentence, period. Ive been asking them to do that since I was first elected in 2018, they still havent done it, Sand said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX TOPEKA (KSNT) Northern Lights enthusiasts have had a lot to look forward to in 2024 as solar activity builds, leading to more frequent and impressive displays of the Aurora Borealis in the night sky. Many Americans were treated to rare displays of the Northern Lights earlier this year during periods of increased solar activity. Solar System Ambassador Brenda Culbertson with NASA told 27 News the reasons for this are tied to some unexpected outbursts of energy from the Sun which is interacting with Earths magnetic field. Signs are pointing to a continuing trend of this solar activity, meaning many people on Earth may be seeing the lights overhead more often than they may be used to. So what can people expect going forward? Black bear sightings are increasing in Kansas Solar Cycle 25 Culbertson said the Sun is currently in Solar Cycle 25 which was projected to be a fairly weak cycle in a 2020 forecast released by the Solar Cycle 25 Prediction Panel made up of NASA and NOAA representatives. Each cycle lasts around 11 years with the previous one, Solar Cycle 24, displaying only 114 sunspots. We are currently in Solar Cycle 25, and it was not expected to be as active as it has been, Culbertson said. A Solar Cycle is, on average, an 11-year period where the solar activity increases and decreases because of the magnetic field. Solar Cycle began in December of 2019, and it has shown great energy earlier than expected. Sunspots are evidence of the increase in solar activity, and July 2024 saw 196.5. That is the greatest number of sunspots in one month for many years. NASAs Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) monitors activity in Solar Cycle 25 by keeping close tabs on what the Sun is doing. This typically involves observations of sunspots and erupting solar flares which, if directed towards Earth, could send solar particles towards our planet. These particles interact with our magnetic field, producing displays of the Aurora Borealis. Archeologist digs up history beneath Topekas Polk-Quincy Viaduct Storms in Space Culbertson said solar particles can do more than bring about displays of the Northern Lights. Depending on the severity, solar particles can cause disturbances to Earths electrical grids and communication systems. If Earth is in line to receive some of the particles, several things can happen, Culbertson said. Satellites can be damaged from radiation. Astronauts can also be harmed if they receive the radiation. In Earths atmosphere, radio waves and other communication signals can be knocked out. In the past, whole electric grids have been hit and power disrupted for large regions. Culbertson insists that only the strongest geomagnetic storms caused by these particles would bring about serious problems for systems on Earth. The NOAAs Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) monitors this activity, ranking geomagnetic storms on a scale of G1 to G5. Strong showings of the Northern Lights occurred earlier this year in May and July and let people in the lower Midwestern states see the aurora. Along with the potential damage from high energy solar outbursts, the relationship between the magnetic disturbance and Earths atmosphere can cause strong auroral activity, Culbertson said. In the past during one of the strong impacts, aurora was seen at Earths equator. This species is extinct in Kansas for now What to expect from the Aurora Borealis in the near future Culbertson said more solar activity is expected in the near future as 2025 approaches. Earlier predictions did not show Solar Cycle 25 as being very exciting as the previous one was not very active. However, the current cycle has shown unexpected strength and could just be getting warmed up. July of 2024 has seen some of the highest amount of solar activity on record, but there is a chance for it to increase over the months, Culbertson said. The last time scientists recorded this much activity was in 2003 during the Great Halloween Storm of mid-October and early November. While this brought issues for orbiting spacecraft, TV and radio services, it also gave many on Earth the chance to see powerful showings of the Aurora Borealis. It was a series of solar storms, including the strongest solar flare recorded by GOES satellites, Culbertson said. World-wide communications were affected, satellites were damaged, and aurora was seen at low latitudes. Astronauts on board the International Space Station were put in their safe places during the impact, and on Earth, power outages occurred in spots. It was a very strong solar storm in Solar Cycle 23, two cycles ago. Culbertson, however, said the increase in solar activity shouldnt be a cause for worry. Some communication issues may arise during the stronger geomagnetic storms. People should not be worried about the strength of Solar Cycle 25, but it could cause outage of power if a strong, or a series of inflows of solar material collides with Earth, Culbertson said. Communication outage is probably the most wide-spread affect from such an impact. Kansas students launch satellite into space with help from NASA People can keep up with the latest solar activity through the Solar Cycle 25 blog online by clicking here. You can learn more about space weather and how it impacts Earth by going to the SPWCs website. For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. Lisa Davis is officially the next Austin police chief after the City Council confirmed her appointment in a special meeting Tuesday. Davis, an assistant chief with the Cincinnati Police Department, will be the Austin Police Department's 11th chief and the second woman to lead the department permanently. She will have an annual salary of $275,000, said Michele Gonzalez, spokesperson for the city manager's office. Lisa Davis, officially confirmed Tuesday as Austin's new police chief, answers questions from host Judy Maggio, right, during a Q&A session last month. City Manager T.C. Broadnax announced Friday he had selected Davis to be the next police chief. The choice was between Davis and Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman. Broadnax said he's still working on the next steps but expects to have her in the position by early September. The City Council unanimously voted to confirm Davis' position, except for Council Member Mackenzie Kelly, who was not present during the meeting after suffering a medical emergency earlier in the day. Davis, who was at City Hall for the vote, said she was "humbled" to be selected to lead the Police Department. She added that during her first 100 days, she plans to listen to the officers and community about what struggles they are facing and how to address them. Davis committed to the members of the Police Department and the community that she would be a "visible" presence in the workspace and at public events. "I want the city of Austin to know that anything I implement, any strategy that is implemented, will be done through the lens that it has to be effective, it has to be equitable, and it has to be ethical," she said. The Police Department had been without a permanent chief for nearly a year after former Chief Joe Chacon announced his retirement last August. The department was then led by interim Chief Robin Henderson, who decided not to apply for the permanent role. Mayor Kirk Watson thanked Henderson for her 26 years of service to the department at Tuesday's meeting. During a news conference after the confirmation, Henderson said Davis is a "true community advocate and leader." She advised that Davis take the time to learn from community members as she steps into the role to learn what the department and city need to move forward. Hiring a permanent police chief was a top priority for the new city manager. Applications for the chief's position opened in May, with 32 people applying. Residents decried the process and said the applicant pool was weak, with some stating that Austin's policies toward policing in recent years, such as slashing the department's budget in 2020, kept people from applying. Davis arrives as the department struggles with ongoing vacancies and a morale "crisis" among the sworn officers. The city and the Austin Police Association, the union that represents officers, have been without a long-term contract for over a year, although recent bargaining sessions indicate a deal is forthcoming. To boost morale in the Police Department, Davis previously said she would listen to the concerns of both sworn and civilian staff while remaining open and transparent with them. Davis noted that officers are generally a department's best recruiters, and making them happy will help increase the number of people who want to join the department. Davis is a U.S. Navy veteran and started working as a police officer in Cincinnati, her hometown, more than 30 years ago. She was previously a finalist to be the police chief in Cincinnati and Oakland. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: City Council confirms Lisa Davis as chief of Austin Police Department AUSTIN (KXAN) Austin emergency personnel are sharing concerns about a resolution approved by Austin City Council earlier this year regarding proposed code changes to allow single staircases in multifamily residences. Austin City Council approved May 2 a resolution directing the city manager to evaluate and provide options for Council to adopt building code updates that would allow a single stairway for multifamily developments up to at least five stories. That resolution cited both Seattle and New York City as well as communities in Europe and Asia as places with similar regulations already adopted. However, officials with the Austin Fire Department, Austin-Travis County EMS and the Austin Development Services Department found multiple issues with the prospect of implementing those code changes locally. Tom Vocke, assistant chief of the Austin Fire Department, addressed those concerns during Mondays Austin Public Safety Commission meeting. Vocke said AFD along with other emergency response entities shared a letter with the city on June 26 noting they werent in support of the code proposal. He said the proposed change would negatively impact evacuation tactics and obstruct emergency services, with aging and insufficient water infrastructure in Austin coupling those concerns. While the council resolution cited other communities with this code as part of the passed resolution, Vocke said AFD services more than 300 square miles of land; in contrast, he said cities like Seattle and New York City are more compact and have a higher density of stations. Presentation documents took the example of Seattle from councils resolution and crosschecked its operations against Austins. Since 1977, Seattles city code has permitted single stairway use in multifamily residences up to six stories high if built with specific safety protections in place, such as fire-resistive construction practices, limits on the number of apartments per floor and minimized travel distances from the farthest point of each apartment to the stairway, per a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development policy brief. The reasons behind Seattles capability of this code change, Austin officials said, came down to the following factors: Strong water supply access Fast response times Emergency communications tactics Fire prevention and enforcement measures Presentation documents noted the Texas capital fell short in emergency response times as well as the sheer volume of fire response resources. Seattle has one ladder for every 2.7 engines, while Austin has one ladder for every 3.8 engines. When looking at response times, Seattles first arriving engine arrives at an incident within four minutes 76% of the time; comparatively, Austins first arriving engine arrives within four minutes 57% of the time. In Seattle, the citys first full-alarm engine arrives within eight minutes 95% of the time; but in Austin, its first full alarm arrives within eight minutes 12% of the time. Likewise, documents added Seattle has a very good hydrant infrastructure that supersedes Austin. Vocke also shared that while city officials eye this code change as a way to broaden out its available multifamily residences, all of the safety requirements that come with single-stairway residences would likely increase construction costs. Currently, he said the citys planning commission is poised to deliver a report on the code proposal back to council in the near future, and emergency personnel have been in contact with the commission about their concerns. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. LUSAKA, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese enterprises expressed their willingness to assist Zambia in addressing its current electricity crisis by offering alternative energy solutions, as showcased at the 96th Agricultural and Commercial Show that concluded Monday in the Zambian capital of Lusaka. Sanver Chen, sales manager at Airumi New Energy Zambia Limited, highlighted at the exhibition the company's commitment to producing efficient, environmentally friendly, and stable power system solutions from its manufacturing plants in central Zambia's Chibombo District. Chen noted that their current production of long-lasting batteries and inverters will help alleviate the country's electricity shortage crisis, with plans to commence lithium battery production next year. "We know that Zambia is currently facing electricity problems, and we want to use our expertise to help the country with alternative energy sources such as solar," he said. Wind Peng, product manager at Herocean Group of Companies, emphasized the increased demand for their solar energy products like panels and lithium batteries, driven by Zambia's electricity deficit. Peng affirmed their readiness to meet market needs with a range of solar solutions. Zhang Jingjing, business manager of Orton Electric Group Company Limited, expressed interest in expanding their energy product market in Zambia, mirroring their success in Ghana. Zhang highlighted their search for local partnerships to promote its energy products, such as transformers and voltage equipment in Zambia. Joseph Lungu, sales assistant at Wiltech Solar Solution Limited, emphasized their readiness to collaborate with the Zambian government to use solar energy to tackle the current electricity crisis. He underscored solar energy as pivotal for Zambia's energy future, leveraging the country's solar potential amidst challenges from reduced hydroelectric capacity due to poor rains. Zambia has actively encouraged investment in alternative energy sources, particularly solar, following water level reductions in hydro plants due to adverse weather in the 2023/2024 season. The government's initiatives include a zero-rating value-added tax on selected equipment for solar projects and the supply of solar power-related items, aiming to foster greater investment in solar energy infrastructure. AUSTIN (KXAN) The Austin City Council officially confirmed the city managers appointment of Lisa Davis as the next chief of police during a special-called meeting Tuesday. Ill just say no pressure, Mayor Kirk Watson said as Davis concluded her remarks at the podium after the vote, but the entire city is counting on you for that new set of eyes and new leadership, and we have great confidence in you. So thank you very very much. Shortlist for new Austin police chief released here are the finalists Davis comes to Austin from an assistant chief role in Cincinnati, Ohio. She and Jeffrey Norman, the Milwaukee Police Chief, were the top two finalists out of about 30 applicants. Lisa Davis, Austins next police chief, addressed City Council after her official confirmation Tuesday. Davis has consistently referred to two pillars of policing as her priorities as she steps into the top cop role at the Austin Police Department: improving morale, recruitment and retention and using a data-driven approach to drive crime rates down. Learning and listening. Thats what Im doing right now, so those first 100 days are very important, Davis said. Ill be having more on how thats gonna look soon. Now its about listening, getting a feel for the challenges facing the department, and deciding where to go from there. Lisa Davis named Austins next police chief APD is currently down about 350 officers. City Manager T.C. Broadnax, who officially appointed Davis to the chief position, said her commitment to strong police-community relations was a driving factor in his decision. Davis first official day on the job will likely be some time in early September. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) The government of Australias most populous state ordered all public employees to work from their offices by default beginning Tuesday and urged stricter limits on remote work, after news outlets provoked a fraught debate about work-from-home habits established during the pandemic. Chris Minns, the New South Wales premier, said in a notice to agencies Monday that jobs could be made flexible by means other than remote working, such as part-time positions and role sharing, and that building and replenishing public institutions required being physically present. His remarks were welcomed by business and real estate groups in the state's largest city, Sydney, who have decried falling office occupancy rates since 2020, but denounced by unions, who pledged to challenge the initiative if it was invoked unnecessarily. The instruction made the states government, Australias largest employer with more than 400,000 staff, the latest among a growing number of firms and institutions worldwide to attempt a reversal of remote working arrangements introduced as the coronavirus spread. But it defied an embrace of remote work by the governments of some other Australian states, said some analysts, who suggested lobbying by a major newspaper prompted the change. It seems that the Rupert Murdoch-owned Daily Telegraph in Sydney has been trying to get the New South Wales government to mandate essentially that workers go back to the office, said Chris F. Wright, an associate professor in the discipline of work at the University of Sydney. The newspaper cited prospective economic boons for struggling businesses. The newspaper wrote Tuesday that the premiers decision ending the work from home era followed its urging, although Minns did not name it as a factor. But the union representing public servants said there was scant evidence for the change and warned the state government could struggle to fill positions. Throughout the New South Wales public sector, theyre trying to retain people, said Stewart Little, the General Secretary of the Public Service Association. In some critical agencies like child protection were looking at 20% vacancy rates, youre talking about hundreds of jobs. Little added that government offices have shrunk since 2020 and agencies would be unable to physically accommodate every employee on site. Minns said the state would lease more space, according to the Daily Telegraph. The change is a game-changer for languishing central city businesses, said Katie Stevenson, Executive Director of the Australian Property Council's NSW branch. More workers mean more life, more investment, and more business for our cities." Individual agencies could devise their own policies, the order added, but should ensure employees spread attendance across all days of the working week. Requests to work from home on some occasions should be formally approved for a limited period only and reasons for the request should be supplied, the directive said. Minns said workplace culture and opportunities for mentorship would improve, in remarks echoing other business leaders worldwide who have questioned the productivity of remote workers. Most public workers, such as teachers and nurses, could not work from home anyway, he added. The order set New South Wales apart from other Australian states, one of which sought to capitalize on the move Tuesday. A spokesperson for Jacinta Allan, the premier of neighboring Victoria, told reporters the states remote work allowances would remain undisturbed and disgruntled NSW public servants should consider moving there. Wright said the change not only overturned increased flexibility during the pandemic but also erased a decade of moves by Australias federal government encouraging remote working to reduce barriers to workforce participation, lower carbon emissions and reduce traffic jams. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been broadly supportive of remote working. His government will enact a right to disconnect law later this month that will allow employees to refuse work communications outside their agreed hours. An Austrian climate action group that attacked a Gustav Klimt masterpiece and regularly blocked roads has announced it is disbanding, saying it had no chance of success after being fined thousands of euros. Last Generation Austria said it struggled to make its point against ignorance death threats and fines of tens of thousands of euros, and was in a state of despair over the Austrian governments inaction on climate change. We no longer see any prospect of success, the group said in a statement. The activists regularly made headlines over the past two years, blocking streets and pouring black liquid over a screen protecting Klimts masterpiece Death And Life in Viennas Leopold Museum. Last month, the group joined protests to disrupt traffic at several airports in Europe just days after the European Unions climate monitor registered the hottest day ever globally, with the daily average temperature inching up to 17.15C (62.87F). The group had also called for climate protection to be enshrined as a fundamental right in the Austrian constitution. Last Generation Austria members block a road in Vienna - JOE KLAMAR/AFP VIA GETTY Austrias ruling conservative Peoples Party (OVP) welcomed the dissolution of what it called an extremist group, which comprised some 280 activists. After numerous court cases, [they] have finally realised that Austrias streets are not a legal vacuum and that there is no fundamental right to their sabotage actions, it said. Karl Nehammer, Austrias chancellor, said he always considered it a mistake to make peoples everyday lives and their journeys to work more difficult. He added: Nobody is above the law, no matter what their cause. Its good that this has come to an end. But the group was equally scathing about Austrias leaders. We realise that Austria wants to remain in fossil ignorance and thus accepts that it is partly responsible for the deaths of billions of people, its statement said. The group said it would continue to raise awareness of climate change in Germany. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Authorities search for man wanted in connection with robbery, attempted robbery at Chicago banks Authorities search for man wanted in connection with robbery, attempted robbery at Chicago banks CHICAGO A robbery and an attempted robbery at banks on the citys Northwest and Far North sides have sparked an FBI investigation. According to agents from the FBI Chicago Field Office, an attempted robbery unfolded at a bank in Dunning on Friday and a robbery unfolded at a bank in Rogers Park on Saturday morning, and agents believe both incidents involved the same man. This embedded content is not available in your region. Agents responded to Fridays attempted robbery at around 5 p.m., at a Huntington Bank in the 6400 block of West Irving Park Road. The next day, at around 11:45 a.m., agents were called to investigate a robbery at an Associated Bank in the 1700 block of West Howard Avenue. LATEST CASES: Missing people in Chicagoland During each incident, the man made a verbal demand for money and implied that he was armed with a handgun. No one was injured during either. Following the incidents, the man fled the scene on foot. Surveillance images captured on Saturday, Aug. 3, show a man believed to have been responsible for a robbery at an Associated Bank in the 1700 block of West Howard Avenue. Surveillance images captured on Friday, Aug. 2. show a man believed to have been responsible for a robbery at a Huntington Bank in the 6400 block of West Irving Park Road. On Monday, agents shared photographs captured by bank security cameras as the search continues for the man believed to be responsible. Agents described the man as a thin individual who stands between 5-foot-9 and 6 feet tall. During each incident, the man was spotted wearing either a red or khak button-down shirt with a blue bucket or fishing hat, black sunglasses, and dark denim pants. LATEST CASES: Missing people in Chicagoland Anyone with information on the incidents is asked to call the FBIs Chicago Field Office at 312-421-6700. Those with information that could help agents in their investigation can also submit tips at tips.fbi.gov. Tips can be submitted anonymously. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. Park rangers are asking for the publics help in identifying three shirtless hikers who are accused of trespassing on a federally protected territory, according to a memo from the National Park Service (NPS). At 11:06 a.m. on July 24, authorities in Maine received a call concerning two men and one woman, all without shirts, seen on the Precipice Trail in Acadia National Park. Precipice Trail is a bird sanctuary trail which is strictly off limits to hikers during the summer months in order to preserve nesting areas for peregrine falcons, a federally protected species. Most of the east face of Champlain Mountain, including the entirety of the Precipice Trail, is closed for several months every year to support the protection of peregrine falcons, their nesting sites, and surrounding habitat, the NPS explained in its statement. Research has shown that nesting peregrine falcons are particularly vulnerable to human activities, which can disturb the adults and make them less attentive to the eggs or chicks, the NPS continued. Human activities near a nesting area can lead to temporary or permanent abandonment of the nest by the adults, leaving chicks susceptible to hypothermia, starvation, and predation. The NPS noted that the trails closure is clearly marked at the trail site, and it is widely publicized across various platforms, including Acadia National Parks official website and social media accounts. Pictures posted by the NPS show two long-haired men and a female companion traversing the rock face. Another photo shows the trailhead, which is blocked with copious Do Not Enter signs and construction barriers that one would have to scramble over in order to enter the forest. Investigators are asking those who were near the Precipice Trail on July 24, or may otherwise have information leading to the suspect's identities, to come forward. According to the Department of Justice, trespassing on federally protected land is punishable by six months in prison, a $500 fine, or both. Avelo Airlines to resume nonstop service to Philadelphia region from Daytona Beach On the heels of announcing a new Hartford County, Connecticut, flight from Daytona Beach, Avelo Airlines announced Tuesday that it will resume flights to the Philadelphia and Delaware Valley region. Avelo Airlines will resume its service between Daytona Beach International Airport and the Wilmington Airport starting Nov. 7. Weve received hundreds and hundreds of requests for the return of this route," Avelo Airlines Founder and CEO Andrew Levy said in a prepared statement. The addition means travelers will have three options with Avelo from Daytona Beach, including flights to Bradley International Airport in Hartford County, Connecticut (starting Nov. 8), and New Haven, Connecticut (already in operation). Avelo also will be offering special $67 one-way fares between Daytona Beach and Wilmington Airport if flights are booked by Aug. 13 for travel between Nov. 7-17. The Wilmington route will operate on Thursdays and Sundays with Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft, according to a news release. Daytona Beach International Airport Director Karen Feaster called it great news for the community. "We are thrilled Avelo is resuming the Philadelphia/Wilmington flights," she said in the release. "The Philadelphia region is one of our top 10 metropolitan markets for passengers flying in and out, and this flight was very popular with travelers. This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Philadelphia-area flights will return to Daytona Beach airport A B-1B Lancer assigned to the 419th Flight Test Squadron conducts flight tests on the Load Adaptable Modular pylon in the skies over California, Feb. 15. One of the U.S. Air Forces B-1B Lancer bombers has begun flying with a new type of external pylon that will be able to accommodate a wide range of munitions, including larger weapons and hypersonic cruise missiles. The testing of the Load Adaptable Modular pylon, or LAM reflects the continued importance of the B-1 to the Air Force. Although its retirement is now planned, the bomber remains valuable, especially for its ability to carry large and diverse payloads over long distances and it has been earmarked as a hypersonic weapons test platform, in particular. The U.S. Air Force announced today that the 412th Test Wing, at Edwards Air Force Base, California, has tested the Boeing-designed LAM, which it says is planned to remove traditional weapon constraints. The new pylon was flown attached to a B-1B assigned to the wings 419th Flight Test Squadron. A B-1B Lancer assigned to the 419th Flight Test Squadron conducts flight tests on the Load Adaptable Modular pylon in the skies over California, Feb. 15. Air Force photo by Richard Gonzales In photos dated February 7 and February 15, 2024, a B-1B test aircraft is seen with a single LAM pylon fitted under the port side of the forward fuselage, roughly adjacent to the start of the wing root. It appears to be loaded with an inert 2,000-pound class Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM). This seems to be in the exact same location the B-1 uses when carrying the AN/AAQ-33 Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod. In a statement, the Air Force explained that the unique pylon is designed to carry a variety of standard and emerging weapons with seamless transition, allowing for maximum agility while also strengthening weapon test infrastructure. While the B-1B was chosen due to aircraft availability at Edwards, the LAM can be modified for attachment to a variety of other aircraft if the need were to arise. Photo by Richard Gonzales/412th Test Wing (USAF) Air Force photo by James West A B-1B Lancer assigned to the 419th Flight Test Squadron takes off from Edwards Air Force Base, California, Feb. 7, to conduct flight tests on the Load Adaptable Modular pylon. Air Force photo by C.J. Raterman C.J. Raterman While the possibility of the LAM to accommodate hypersonic weapons wasnt mentioned by the Air Force in its release, this is something that Boeing officials have mentioned in the past in relation to the pylon. The introduction of hypersonic missiles is increasingly seen as fundamental to ensuring the B-1 remains relevant until replaced by the B-21 Raider stealth bomber, which is now under test. At the same time, several experimental air-launched hypersonic missiles have been tested, albeit with mixed results so far. A B-1B Lancer assigned to the 419th Flight Test Squadron takes off from Edwards Air Force Base, California, Feb. 15, to conduct flight tests on the Load Adaptable Modular pylon. Air Force photo by James West James West While an external weapons carriage capability was a part of the plans for the B-1 in the Cold War, it subsequently fell out of favor, being removed to make the bombers compliant with New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) regulations. More recently, the capability has been reactivated to accommodate additional weapons. Work to reactivate the B-1s hardpoints initially focused on the carriage of up to a dozen more subsonic AGM-158 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) cruise missiles, or AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) derivatives, in addition to 24 more of either of those weapons that fit in its internal bomb bays. The ability to carry such a large number of LRASMs would make the LAM-equipped B-1 a notably potent and unpredictable weapon in any future campaign waged against Chinese naval forces in the Asia-Pacific theater. A 419th Flight Test Squadron B-1B carrying an inert AGM-158 JASSM during a demonstration flight. USAF For hypersonic weapons, which are dimensionally large, external carriage also makes a lot of sense. Boeing has said in the past that the B-1 will eventually be fitted with six LAMs, each of which can carry two missiles, and the company has said these will include two distinct types: boost-glide vehicles and air-breathing missiles. The Cold War-era B-1B was designed with six external hardpoints, each of which could carry two examples of the nuclear-tipped AGM-86B Air-Launched Cruise Missile, or ALCM. B-1B with cruise missile mounting racks attached to external hardpoints during testing. USAF In relation to LAM, Boeing has previously talked about the largest hypersonic missiles envisaged for the B-1 weighing around 5,000 pounds and being more than 20 feet long. That could suggest the AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid-Response Weapon, or ARRW was the boost-glide vehicle in question. However, in March this year, the Air Force announced that it was canceling further work on the AGM-183A, though it would still complete the rest of its already planned ARRW flight tests. ARRWs test record is patchy, at best and the Air Force declined to say whether the most recent known test of that design, which occurred in August, was a success or failure. At one point, it was planned that ARRW would be the USAFs first hypersonic weapon. Nevertheless, there could still be an ARRW follow-on of some kind in the works, in the classified realm, a possibility reinforced by the continued testing of the AGM-183 after its cancelation had been announced. A live AGM-183A ARRW under the wing of a B-52 bomber at Andersen Air Force Base on Guam ahead of a test over the Western Pacific earlier this year. USAF In the other category, air-breathing missiles, are such weapons as the Hypersonic Air-Breathing Weapon Concept, or HAWC, a scramjet vehicle, and the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile, or HACM, another program involving an air-breathing weapon that is intended to be suitable for carriage by fighter and bomber aircraft. Boeing has said that a LAM-modified B-1 would be able to carry 12 HACMs, in addition to 24 in the internal weapons bays. To date, this is the only picture the U.S. Air Force has released showing an actual air-breathing hypersonic cruise missile test article related to the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM) program and/or the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agencys preceding Hypersonic Airbreathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) effort. USAF At the same time, the LAM pylons are also intended to boost the B-1s ability to carry existing conventional weaponry, too, including 12 of the aforementioned JASSM cruise missiles and their derivatives. Taking the example of a smaller weapon, the LAM modification would potentially allow a single B-1 to carry no fewer than 144 Small Diameter Bombs (SDBs), 48 of them externally. With the LAM now in testing, it will have to be fully integrated and proven. After that, captive-carry trials of representative payloads should begin, followed by the release of inert weapons, and finally end-to-end testing. A B-1B bomber showcased with some of its weapons options during a first-ever B-1 munitions capability layout photo shoot at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, April 5, 2011. U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Darcie L. Ibidapo All this depends on budgets, however, which are currently notably stretched, something that is already having an effect on plans for major Air Force programs. The LAM modification especially as it relates to hypersonic missiles, but also subsonic standoff weapons like JASSM also helps ensure the B-1 is still a valuable asset despite the imposition of limitations on its operating envelope. After many combat hours over Afghanistan and the Middle East, the fleet has accrued much wear and tear, leading to restrictions on flying at low altitudes. A B-1B Lancer aircraft nicknamed Lancelot touches down at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, Feb. 8, 2024. Lancelot was regenerated to the active bomber fleet after previously being retired to the Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona. USAF U.S. Air Force photo by Clayton Cummins Although B-1 force has been downsized from 62 to 45 airframes in recent years, helping to distribute funds to other priorities and use retired B-1s to provide spare parts, the Air Force has also returned previously stored Lancers to operational readiness to replace others lost in accidents. This is part of meeting strict legal requirements set by Congress for the service to maintain a fleet of 45 B-1Bs. Boeing concept art showing a B-1B fitted with LAM pylons carrying air-breathing hypersonic missiles. Boeing Although the B-52H Stratofortress has so far been at the forefront of Air Force hypersonic missile tests, the signs are that the service increasingly wants to hand at least some of this over to the B-1, which will be especially important as the B-52 undergoes an ambitious re-engining program. With the Load Adaptable Modular Pylon now on the horizon, the B-1 should be able to emerge as the interim hypersonic weapons carrier that the Air Force has been campaigning for. Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com A foster mother whose 1-year-old baby died in Puyallup last year after she unknowingly left him in a hot car made a tragic mistake, according to Pierce Countys top prosecutor. The woman will not face criminal charges. Steven Kopp of Graham died May 18, 2023, in the parking lot of MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital. In a July 30 memo explaining her decision not to file charges, Prosecutor Mary Robnett wrote that the boys foster mother had admitted full responsibility and the community would not be served by punishing her further. She added that based on a similar 1996 case in Pierce County and national data, a conviction was unlikely. There is no concern that the foster mother will commit this type of act again herself, and criminalizing her tragic mistake will not deter others from making similar future mistakes, Robnett said. When children are unknowingly left in a vehicle, national data indicates that about 50 percent of cases result in criminal charges, according to Robnett, and about 31-47 percent of those result in conviction. She said there were eight such deaths in Washington between 1996 and 2003. In this case, Robnett said she had no doubt the baby was unknowingly left in the car. The foster mother was exhausted, recovering from COVID-19 and anxious about her new job. When the incident occurred, a Puyallup Police Department spokesperson said the woman, then age 47, was a case manager at the hospital. She dropped off multiple kids at different locations on her way to work. She had planned to drop off Steven at daycare, too, but Robnett said she literally forgot she hadnt done so. On her way to work, a change in her routine resulted in her purse being in the front seat instead of the back. Robnett said the woman was anxious because she was running late, and she backed into a parking spot with a backup camera instead of looking over her shoulder. As she parked, Robnett said the woman was further distracted by colleagues in the lot. It was a warm day. Temperatures reached a high of 75 degrees near Seatac, according to Weather Underground. Police responded to the Puyallup hospital for a 911 call at about 6:16 p.m. Robnett said the foster mothers account of what happened was captured on video. She said interviews with both foster parents were heartbreaking. The Pierce County Medical Examiners Office determined Stevens cause of death was hyperthermia and ruled it an accident. Most unintentional cases like Stevens death result from a parent or caregiver who is exhausted, tired or overwhelmed with circumstances, according to Robnett. She said theres often a change of routine, and the parent literally forgets the sleeping or quiet child in the car while on a sort of autopilot. The only other case of the kind handled by the Pierce County Prosecuting Attorneys Office was in 1996. Robnett said a young and single mother was out all night, then intentionally left her infant in the car when she came home. She then inadvertently fell asleep, woke up hours later and found her daughter dead in her car seat. Prosecutors charged the woman with manslaughter. At trial, the jury unanimously acquitted the woman. Robnett said that according to news reports, elected prosecutor John Ladenburg called it a benchmark case. He reportedly said these would always be close cases, but that prosecutors had a duty to step up for the child. Robnett said she found the woman in the Puyallup case to be less culpable, and she did not believe a jury would convict her of manslaughter. Lets hope future mistakes of this kind will be avoided by raising public awareness and education, Robnett said. Technology is also catching up as some newer cars warn the driver to check the backseat. Steve Beus and his brother, Shane, have been dairy farmers in Ada and Canyon counties for decades, watching the Treasure Valley grow and develop around them. Now Steve, 81, says its time to retire. Ive pushed cows since I was 15 years old, and its time to do something else, or nothing else, he told the Idaho Statesman. Steve Beus, right, with his wife, Becky. Steve and his brother, Shane Beus, aim to sell their familys farmland to Savion, a solar farm developer. Steve framed the sale as an issue of property rights. In Steves words: Weve been working this sucker for 70 years. I think Ive earned the right to sell it and quit. When Steve and Shane put their farmland up for sale about five years ago, no one was biting. Eventually, they did get some interest in the land, located south of Kuna and straddling Ada and Canyon counties. It came not from farmers, but from housing and solar-farm developers the latter eager to put up solar panels near a power substation, with easy access to the grid. The solar developers were offering more money than the housing developers. Plus, unlike housing developments, solar farms dont use any roads, they dont use any schools, they dont add traffic, Steve Beus said. And the power the solar farm generated could help power nearly 45,000 homes if Idaho Power agreed to buy energy from the nearly 2,500-acre project west of South Robinson Road and north of Kuna Cave Road. On the whole, the family thought a solar farm would be a better, lower-impact option for their community. The community, it turned out, did not agree. On Facebook, at community meetings and at two hours-long public hearings in Ada County, dozens of neighbors raised concerns about the appearance of a large solar farm, the effect it might have on property values in the area, and health and safety concerns, including the risk of fire sparked by the equipment or abetted by dried-out grasses underneath the panels. Much of the conversation centered around how the development could change the character of the farming community. During a public hearing in mid-July, the Idaho Conservation League rebutted some of these concerns, noting that there was no substantiated evidence to suggest that solar panels or other equipment had negative impacts on human health. Routinely, utilities select solar and storage projects as the least cost, least risk, most reliable and safest option to satisfy their burgeoning resource needs, said Brad Heusinkveld, the organizations energy and regulatory counsel. Both sides of the debate over the proposed solar farm pointed to this nearby project, located on South Cloverdale Road in Kuna. Supporters said it was barely noticeable, while those in opposition called it an eyesore. A debate over property rights, and a fight for a rural way of life To the Beus family, this is a debate about private property rights: what owners are allowed to do with their land, and what say, if any, the neighbors should have. Farmers through much of the Treasure Valley have used those rights to sell their land to developers, who offer them a bigger retirement payday than crops could ever give. The average price per acre of farmland in Kuna is about $50,000. This property is owned privately, Shane Beus said during a public hearing in July. Its kind of interesting; all of a sudden, its Idahos farm ground, or my neighbor wants to claim it as his farm ground. I dont know where they were at when it was time to pick rocks, fix the water on a Sunday morning, or bale hay all night. It is our farm ground We have the right to do with our property as we desire. But the development would require Ada and Canyon county officials to grant a conditional use permit and variance because the area is zoned for agriculture. This meant the family was asking for a special privilege, which warranted greater input from the community, Commissioner Ryan Davidson said during a meeting Tuesday, July 30. One of the things I take strongly into consideration, and I always ask this when Im presented with a variance, is how do your neighbors feel about it? Davidson said. This is a very large project that is directly affecting a lot of neighbors we had significant testimony, and I would say (the project) was near-universally opposed by the neighbors. Many of those neighbors see the proposed solar farm as an existential threat to their rural way of life. They see themselves as a small community up against the big money of sustainable energy companies, said Debbie Davis, a Melba resident who opposes the project. A map of the proposed Powers Butte Energy Center south of Kuna. Ted Vander Schaff, a tenant on part of the land thats up for sale, expressed similar sentiments. We have so much growth in this valley, and were seeing everything change, he told the Statesman. From a farmers perspective, Im losing ground I was farming ground over where Meta is. I was farming ground north of Kuna. Ive had to move and adjust and shift. Every time, you find a new spot and make an adjustment to your business, and all of a sudden, now weve got solar right on top of us. Theres nowhere to back up to anymore, he added. Our backs are against the wall. Over 10 square miles of working agricultural land that is, farmland used for growing crops or raising cattle, or forests used for producing paper and fiber are permanently converted to other uses every year in Idaho, said David Anderson, the Idaho program manager for American Farmland Trust. Thats one of the highest rates of land conversion per capita in the West, he told the Statesman, and much of it is due to rapidly growing urban communities. That rapid shift can contribute to residents opposition to green energy projects, said Jared Talley, a Boise State professor who studies rural communities in the Intermountain West. They see it just as yet another attack, or another reason to give up farmland and productive ag land, just for urban benefit, he told the Statesman. Its viewed as another way for rural communities to be extracted from in order to support urban energy consumption. Rural communities opposition to solar challenges national energy transition Opponents insist they have nothing against solar energy. They take issue, instead, with the presence of solar farms so close to their homes. They question why projects like this cant be hosted on vast tracts of federal land, or at least in less-populated areas. To mobilize against the solar farm, some Nampa, Melba and Kuna residents in April created a nonprofit called Rural Community Advocates deliberately selecting the name to convey that their concerns went beyond solar energy. Were advocating for our community to keep it the way that it is, said Justine Krivanec, the groups president. Members emphasized the grassroots, local nature of the group. Its leaders and members work full-time jobs some own their own businesses and their struggling organization relies on donations and t-shirt and poster sales, said Dustin Ferdinand, the vice president. Neighbors who opposed the solar farm development placed posters along Kuna Cave Road, and elsewhere in the area. The group has been in touch with similar organizations from other states on social media, exchanging ideas, research and talking points. (An online search for stop solar brings up several organizations that take a similar approach, some of which have been accused of spreading misinformation about the dangers of renewable energy.) In a June blog post supporting the project, the Idaho Conservation Leagues climate program manager, Adrian Gallo, wrote that neighbors concerns about solar panels safety had been thoroughly addressed and debunked by multiple academic studies. At the national level, opposition from rural communities adds up. President Biden set a goal to eliminate or offset greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, which could involve sourcing up to 45% of the countrys electricity supply from solar power requiring a land area twice the size of Massachusetts, according to the Department of Energy. Getting those projects built in the face of local opposition is among the biggest challenges wind and solar companies face, NPR reported last year. And indeed, on July 30, Ada County commissioners voted to deny the solar developers application, citing the oppositions testimony as a driving force in their decision. Like those opposed, commissioners emphasized that they had nothing against solar power and had in fact previously approved a solar project south of the Boise airport from the same developer, Savion, a Missouri-based subsidiary of Britains Shell oil company, as well as other solar projects in the county. Still, Davidson said, If (Savion has) future solar projects, I hope they and other solar companies do take into consideration that people move to Idaho for a certain way of life, and people dont really want to see that change. Despite Ada Countys denial, the fate of the project remains uncertain, as Canyon County must also review the project. Savion may withdraw its application to Canyon County, or resubmit an updated concept that stands alone without the Ada County portion of the project, Sabrina Minshall, Canyon Countys director of development services, told the Statesman in an email. Steve Beus said the pushback from neighbors hadnt changed his mind about trying to sell his land to a solar developer. I think we have a right. We farmed out here for 65 years. I think Ive earned the right to do what I want with my land, he said. If anything, its strengthened my resolve to see it through. But after the July 30 hearing, where about 50 people who opposed the project gathered, wearing t-shirts that said No solar on farm ground, Krivanec said her group wasnt done yet. The developer thought these rural people would just let (the project) pass by, and we might not notice, Krivanec said. We know the fights not over. Community members who opposed the solar farms development stand outside the Ada County Courthouse after a hearing on the proposal on July 30. Ada County Commissioners ultimately sided with the protesters. Idaho Power to shift solar compensation to on-peak, off-peak times. What it means to you A new crop is now growing in Idaho: Solar energy NIAMEY, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Niger will break off diplomatic ties with Ukraine "with immediate effect," Amadou Abdramane, spokesman for the Niger military government, announced on national television on Tuesday. He said in a statement that the move was taken because of Kyiv's "support for terrorist organizations," and called the UN Security Council to make a ruling on Ukraine's "aggression." The statement said that "considering the seriousness of the situation, and the recognized and assumed involvement of Ukraine in the aggression of Mali," the Nigerien government, in solidarity with the Malian government and people, decided to break off "with immediate effect" diplomatic relations with Ukraine, and the referral to the UN Security Council with a view to ruling on the Ukrainian "aggression" and its sponsors. On Sunday, Mali's transitional government said it would sever diplomatic relations with Ukraine "with immediate effect," citing Ukraine's acknowledged involvement in an act of aggression against Mali. The decision was taken in response to "subversive remarks" made by Andriy Yusov, spokesperson for the Ukrainian military intelligence, who recently admitted Ukraine's involvement in an attack by "armed terrorist groups" that resulted in the deaths of Malian defense and security forces personnel in Tinzaoutene, according to Abdoulaye Maiga, the Malian government's spokesperson. On July 30, the Malian Armed Forces reported having suffered "significant human losses" during intense fighting on July 26 against a "coalition of terrorist forces" in the northeastern part of the country. Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger announced the creation of the Confederation of the Alliance of Sahel States during the institution's first summit in early July. From the Boiling Frogs on The Dispatch For the second time in three weeks, its the worst people in a major political party who are most excited about that partys new vice presidential nominee. The obvious choice to join Kamala Harris on the Democratic ticket is not the choice Harris ended up making. I warned you that shes not good at politics, her auspicious performance over the last few weeks notwithstanding. Those of us who preferred Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro will be tempted to treat Harris selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as a terrible error. It isnt. Walz does have his charms. I can be talked into believing that hell do more good than harm for his party as a national figure, although Im strongly inclined to believe that he wont matter at all. Not mattering would be par for the course for vice presidential nominees, as Donald Trump recentlyand correctlyobserved. But par for the course counts as a mistake when the alternative to Walz was someone who might plausibly have tipped the balance in the state thats most likely to tip the balance in the national election. Whats outright depressing about the Walz pick is this: It seems to have come down to vibes. The Minnesota governors ascension to the VP slot marks the first time that TikTok has helped choose a running mate, Sam Stein and Andrew Egger wrote today at The Bulwark. Walz caught fire online last month when he mocked Trump and J.D. Vance for being weird; the left relished the critique, took a shine to Walzs progressive credentials, and rallied around him as a dark-horse alternative to the suspiciously centrist (and Semitic) frontrunner Shapiro. In three weeks, largely on the strength of one viral diss, he went from near-obscurity to joining the Democratic ticket. Very Trumpian to pick the guy who killed it in his cable news hits, New York Times columnist Ross Douthat dryly observed. Damon Linker was less dry: Rather than pick the very popular governor of a neck-and-neck must-win purple state, Harris chose a dime-a-dozen blue-state governor who gives feels to progressives. Thats about what Id have expected from her a month ago. Its about what Id have expected from her a month ago, too. Kamala Harris is who we thought she was: someone whos not very good at politics. Not very good. But not terrible, either. There are things to like about choosing Walz. The good. Its been ages since Democrats had someone on the ticket who could credibly pass for an average joe. The closest thing theyve had this century is Joe Biden, but Scranton Joe has served in public office since he was 28 years old and became a U.S. senator before I was born. Hes the dictionary definition of a professional politician. He might hail from the working class, but a man whos spent a thousand years in Washington has shed most of his claim to being relatable. Walz is relatable. He spent his younger adulthood as a schoolteacher and Army National Guardsman and didnt enter politics until his 40s. If regular-guy vibes helped John Fetterman win a Senate seat in Pennsylvania, Walzs far more authentic regular-guy vibes could conceivably help Harris carry that state and other battlegrounds. I said my piece on Monday about Walzs beer-track appeal in a party run by and for wine-trackers, so heres progressive pundit Brian Beutler making that point his way: The biggest problem with Harris-Shapiro is that theyre too similar. The Democratic Party is already over-indexed on polished coastal elite lawyers. You cant capture the full diversity of the party on a ticket of two people. You get closer with a woman of color and a white man. You get closer still if they arose out of different professional cultures. A Democratic Party that presents itself as the natural home for educated elites, normies, rule-of-law types and farmers, small-town dwellers, teachers, etc. will be stronger than one thats excessively identified with buttoned-up types. This is why Obama picked Biden and Biden picked Harris. Democrats desperately need some populist juice, especially with a black woman lawyer from San Francisco leading the ticket, and Walz supplies more of it than Josh Shapiro could. Beutlers analogy between him and Biden is astute: In both cases, a white guy with a common touch and blue-collar roots helps balance a nonwhite elite nominee, reassuring wary downscale white voters that they can trust him or her. For Harris, its relatability to real America by proxy. If Walz uses his acceptance speech at the convention to champion a left-populist economic agenda for America, maybe hell give some Trump-leaners in the Midwest something to think about. Walz does something else for Harris thats potentially important, providing cover on her left flank so that she can pivot toward the center on policy. Many people, including me in yesterdays newsletter, have noted the irony of progressives antipathy to Shapiro. As VP, Shapiro wouldnt be setting policies toward Israel. But he would have provided useful cover for whatever Harris wanted to do, Philip Klein noted today at National Review. No matter how much hostility she exhibited toward Israel, she would dispatch Shapiro to dutifully spin the policies to Jewish and pro-Israel audiences. Choosing the centrist candidate to cover her right flank would have freed Harris to pivot to the left, and not just on Israel. Choosing Walz does the opposite. One can think of the competition between him and Shapiro as a sort of submerged primary this year between progressives and liberals who were deprived by the Biden-Harris switcheroo of a chance to battle it out for the Democratic nomination. The VP nomination became their battleground instead, and progressives won. Now theyll be expected to be grateful, and quiescent, as Harris reinvents herself as a tough-on-crime, pro-fracking, anti-Medicare-for-all centrist. In one fell swoop, picking Walz has purchased her the enduring enthusiasm of the hard left through Election Day no matter how many flip-flops she executesor so she hopes. Walz is the honeymoon-extension choice, one right-wing activist told New York magazine. She is picking Tim Walz because [shes] really enjoying that the entire Democratic Party is unified and is desperate to extend that through the election. Walz will probably also fare better than Shapiro would have in the traditional vice presidential role of attack dog on the campaign trail. Shapiro has an Obama-esque above-the-fray persona better suited for a presidential nominees pitch about bringing Americans together. Walz is more pugilistic. Hell spend the rest of the campaign lashing Trump and J.D. Vance as rich pseudo-populist phonies jungled up with corporate plutocrats who dont give a rip about flyover country. And hell enjoy every second of it. Not a terrible pick. But not a good one either. The bad. There are obvious reasons to dislike Walz as VP. Unlike Shapiro and Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, he doesnt hail from an important swing state. (Which, admittedly, might not matter.) And although he only recently turned 60, he looks oldwhich isnt great in a campaign where advanced age already rendered one former candidate unelectable. The core problem with Walz, though, is his record. His vibes may be moderate, as one Dispatch colleague pointed out today, but his record is not. And I dont know if the former can survive as the public educates itself about the latter. Harris great challenge before November is defining herself as a sensible centrist before the Trump campaign can define her as a leftist freak. Thats the goal of her many flip-flops, of course, and its why Republicans feared she would choose Shapiro. It would have been hard to convince swing voters that shes a progressive radical with a centrist running mate standing by her side. Instead she chose this guy. One persons socialism is another person's neighborliness. Tim Walzpic.twitter.com/P1NhUTY5Z5 Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) August 6, 2024 Kamala Harris, leftist freak. Shell now have to answer for all of the left-wing excesses in Walzs record as governor, in particular the violence in Minneapolis after George Floyds murder in 2020. Not until day three of the protests there did Walz order the National Guard to assist local authorities, a day after their requests for help had come. Harris-Walz: most left-wing ticket in American history, Gov. Ron DeSantis tweeted on Tuesday morning. Minnesota was ground zero for the BLM riots of 2020. Harris egged it on and Walz sat by and let Minneapolis burn. One can guess what he meant by egged it on. A sharp line making the rounds on Twitter thatll be picked up soon by the Trump campaign: The last time Harris and Walz teamed up was when he allowed rioters to burn down half of Minneapolis and then she raised money to bail them out. Kamala Harris, leftist freak. Maybe Walz is so skilled as a retail politician that hell break through with Trumpy rural voters despite his many culture-war heresies, but Im skeptical. Will they overlook his support for sanctuary cities? What about the bill he signed requiring tampons to be provided in girls and boys bathrooms in public schools? During the COVID-19 pandemic, Walz mandated masking in most indoor public spaces in Minnesota for almost a year. He also set up a hotline for citizens to snitch on neighbors whom they saw violating his stay-at-home order. How do we think populist voters, allegedly his core constituency, will react to those imperious elite intrusions? Forget rural voters and populists, in fact. What about center-right conservatives who disdain Trump and were willing to cross the aisle this time, if only Harris threw them a bone with a moderate running mate? THANK YOU! Donald Trump crowed on social media in the hours after Walz was announced as Harris pick. And no wonder. Perhaps Harris will position herself in the center so aggressively that shell neutralize Walzs liabilitiesalthough even in that unlikely case, a VP choice who needs neutralizing seems by definition to be a poor one. More likely is that Walzs record will be taken by voters as reason to doubt the sincerity of Harris supposed moderate awakening. By choosing him, shes signaling that shes either still a progressive at heart or, at best, is a newbie moderate so timid in her convictions that as president shell be strong-armed by progressives into doing their bidding. I think that what Tim Walzs selection says is that Kamala Harris has bent the knee to the far left of her party, which is what she always does, J.D. Vance said at a rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday. Thats a fair cop, and he wont be the only one to make it. Choosing Walz serves as a reminder that populist right-wing freaks arent the only ones who cant face the fact that their brand of politics is unpopular. Watching leftist freaks rejoice that their nominee has saddled herself unnecessarily with baggage about being soft on riots, hard on COVID-19 skeptics, and weird on trans issues proves that that phenomenon is bipartisan. Harris needs to adopt positions that will upset progressive activists, a worried Jonathan Chait warned Tuesday after the Walz announcement. She needs to specifically understand that the likelihood a given action or statement will create complaints on the left is a reason to do something, rather than a reason not to. Does she understand that? Or has she convinced herself, a la Donald Trump, that the path to victory runs through pandering to the noisiest Very Online chuds on ones own side? In a world where Glenn Youngkin and Josh Shapiro were the obvious vice presidential picks to expand each partys tent, weve somehow ended up with Vance and Walz. The ugly. Its certainly possible that Shapiros Jewish faith played no role in his being passed over as the vice presidential nominee. Reports are swirling that Harris simply gets along better with Walz, that Shapiros job interview with her didnt go great, and that she and her team had inklings that he might seek to overshadow her if he became vice president. Certainly theres no reason to think that Harris, whos married to a Jewish man, personally has any issue with the governors religion. But after the year America has had, one is left to wonder if she felt obliged to bend the knee to the pro-Hamas dirtbags of the far left, who surely do have an issue with Shapiros faith and might have expressed it come November. Shortly before news of Walzs selection leaked on Tuesday, Vance told radio host Hugh Hewitt that, if Shapiro wasnt chosen, it would be due to antisemitism in their own caucus, in their own party. I think its disgraceful that Democrats have gotten to this point where its even an open conversation, Vance continued. And it is an open conversation, Hugh. I mean, even if it is Josh Shapiro, the guy has in some ways had to run away from a lot of his biography over the last few months because the far left doesnt like the fact that he is a Jewish American. Vance is a demagogue and an opportunist, but hes correct that theres a distinct odor to the left-wing grassroots campaign against Shapiro. Walz is enough of a Zionist to have earned the enthusiastic endorsement of the group Democratic Majority for Israel on Tuesday, yet his stance on the Jewish state was tolerable to progressives while that of Genocide Joshwho disdains Benjamin Netanyahu and supports a Palestinian statewas not. Why? When Vance says its an open conversation as to whether antisemitism led to Shapiro being snubbed, hes right about that too. I can see them looking at the explosion of enthusiasm from young people and being spooked out of nominating [Shapiro] if it risks bringing Gaza back into the conversation, one Democratic strategist who knows Harris team well told Politico before she announced her choice. Liberal pundit Van Jones also felt obliged to acknowledge the elephant in the room during a Tuesday appearance on CNN: The possibility that left-wing antisemitism is now so rife and potent that it scared Harris away from Shapiro is sufficiently real that even Democrats are discussing it matter-of-factly. The New York Times deemed it worthy of a long news analysis published on Tuesday afternoon, in fact. We always worry about antisemitism on both ends, one orthodox rabbi told the paper. But our greater worry right now is that antisemitism on the left seems to be far more influential on a major party than the antisemitism on the right. Maybe its a coincidence that the worst people in the Democratic Party all seem to be thrilled to see Shapiro falter. Or maybe it isnt. As if that werent bad enough, the circumstances of his rejection are so bizarre as to appear almost deliberately insulting. Last week, Harris team announced that shed welcome her new running mate to the campaign at a rally tonight inta da!Pennsylvania. Yesterday, Shapiro announced that hed be there. Then, as the selection process played out, Harris choices conspicuously narrowed to him and one other dark-horse alternative. Surely, after all those signs pointing to him joining the ticket, she wasnt going to disappoint voters in the elections most important state by picking the dark horse instead. To do so would feel like a gratuitous humiliation on the governors home turf. Yet thats exactly whats going to happen. Josh Shapiro, the snubbed frontrunner, will have to stand there today and applaud as a guy no one had heard of a month ago gets a heros welcome in Philadelphia. I honestly wonder if the optics of it might do Harris more harm than good in a state she absolutely must win. Imagine that. She was handed a priceless opportunity for a major home-field advantage in this years tipping-point state and she handled it so clumsily that she could end up irritating swing voters there on balance. Shes not good at politics. Even if Pennsylvania voters dont hold a grudge, its anyones guess how snubbing Shapiro in such a shabby way will play with Jewish voters specifically and pro-Israel voters more broadly nationwide. The fact that he was the favorite, that the case for choosing him was so strong and obvious, and that Israels enemies on the far left prevailed upon her to select a virtual nobody instead might sting, and it should. One new poll out of New York suggests Trump was already leading Harris there among Jewish voters before she chose Walz, and while we shouldnt rely too heavily on small subsamples, that data point is provocative. The only consolation for Shapiro fans is that he might be better off not being on the ticket. If Harris had chosen him and then lost to Trump, the governor would have been tainted as a loser ahead of 2028. Whereas if she had chosen him and won, the new VP would have been stuck in the dismal role of centrist apologist for all manner of left-wing Harris policies, from Israel to more mundane domestic priorities. The best thing for his career (although not for Americas future) is being passed over and Harris-Walz going on to lose because they proved to be too left-wing. Given how Shapiro has been treated by progressives in all this, I wouldnt blame him for rooting for it. Read more at The Dispatch The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free. People gather at the Japrabari police station in the aftermath of the prime minister's resignation. In an address to the nation, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced on 05 August that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned after weeks of unrest and an interim government will be formed to run the country. Habibur Rahman/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa Bangladeshi President Mohammed Shahabuddin is set to appoint Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus as the head of the country's interim government, one day after prime minister Sheikh Hasina was forced to resign and flee to India following mass protests. A presidential spokesman told dpa by phone that the decision to appoint the 84-year-old Yunus came at a meeting attended by the president, senior military officers, civil society members and representatives of student protest organizers. The other members of the interim government will be chosen after consultation with political parties, he said. The president earlier dissolved parliament, after weeks of violent protests that left nearly 400 people killed led Hasina to resign and flee Bangladesh on Monday. The demonstrations reached a climax the same day with the storming of a government palace as local media reported that widespread violence saw more than 100 killed across the country. Early on Tuesday, the situation on the streets of the capital Dhaka was calm, after a curfew imposed by Hasina's administration was lifted. Parliament dissolved in consultation with army, protesters Hasina resigned on Monday after 15 years in power. Her Awami League party won a large majority in January elections, but is set to be removed from power after President Shahabuddin dissolved parliament. "The decision for the dissolution of parliament was taken following the president's discussions with chiefs of three staffs of armed forces, leaders of different political parties, representatives of civil society and leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, the presidential office said in a press statement. Hasina's capitulation follows weeks of protests, organized by the Anti-discrimination Student Movement, which started in early July and initially demanded an end to a controversial government job quota system. The demonstrations spread nationwide and turned violent in mid-July as Hasina attempted to cling to power. Protest organizers pick 2006 Nobel winner Earlier on Tuesday, Nahid Islam, one of the top coordinators of the protests, said in a video message posted on Facebook that Yunus had agreed to take on the role of interim leader. "He has given consent considering the present situation of the country," Nahid said, adding that the names of the other members of the interim administration would be made public later in the day. Yunus, a social entrepreneur, banker and economist, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for pioneering the concepts of microcredit and microfinance. Key Hasina opponent Zia freed from house arrest The presidential statement also said that former prime minister Khaleda Zia, chairwoman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Hasinas main political rival, was released from house arrest. Zia was convicted in graft cases in 2018 and was living at her home in Dhaka after she was conditionally released from prison on humanitarian grounds in 2022, as the government suspended her term. The statement also said that the process of releasing political prisoners, including those who were arrested during the anti-discrimination student movement, has started. Massive violence, deaths following Hasina's exit More than 100 people were killed and numerous others were injured in violence that erupted nationwide after Hasina resigned, local media reported on Tuesday. Most deaths came from protesters attacks on police buildings, public establishments, and the residences and business of Hasina's supporters, the reports said. Bangla daily Prothom Alo reported some 109 people were killed during Mondays vandalism. The newspaper put the death toll at 440 since July 16, when violence flared up during the anti-government protests. The death toll could not be verified independently by dpa. Firefighters retrieved the bodies of 24 people from a residential hotel owned by a local Awami League leader in south-western town of Jessore after the facility was set to fire, an official said. In another arson attack, firefighters found the charred bodies of four people in a six-story building owned by a leader of the Awami League party in south-western Chuadanga district after the protesters set fire to it, Bangla daily Prothom Alo reported. In southern Chandpur district, a mob lynched a low-level local government official who was loyal to the Awami League - and his son - while as they were trying to flee the area, the newspaper said. Some 518 prison inmates fled after a mob broke opened a jail in northern Sherpur district in the afternoon, Abdullah Al Khairum, the chief district administrator said, adding that the mob looted arms, ammunition and other valuables from the prison facility on Monday soon after the news aired that Hasina resigned. Most of Dhakas police stations remained empty on Tuesday as the officers were pulled back to police barracks over safety concerns, an official at the Dhaka Metropolitan police said on condition of anonymity. Offices and schools were opened as curfew was lifted on Tuesday morning, but attendance was very low. Dhaka's traffic was thin with three-wheeler rickshaws dominating the streets. People gather in front of the parliament building during celebrations after the resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Hasina. Abu Sufian Jewel/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa An aerial shows anti-government protesters gathered in front of the parliament building during celebrations after the resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Hasina. Zabed Hasnain Chowdhury/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa Bangladesh was plunged into political turmoil after longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India on Monday under pressure from the military and a mass public uprising. Now, the country faces an uncertain future. The 76-year-old Hasina, who is the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the first Prime Minister of the country, had become increasingly authoritarian in recent years. But it was the clashes between police and anti-government protesterswhich have officially left at least hundreds dead, though diplomatic sources have told TIME the true toll could be over 1,000that ultimately proved her undoing. As Hasinas resignation was announced by the military on Monday, protesters ransacked the Ganabhaban, the Prime Ministers official residence in capital Dhaka. Mohammed Shahabuddin, who holds the largely ceremonial role of President of Bangladesh, announced the dissolution of parliament, which had been led by Hasinas ruling party the Awami League for a fourth straight term after January elections that observers deemed neither free nor fair, and Shahabuddin promised fresh elections as soon as possible. By early Wednesday, Shahabuddins office announced that 84-year-old Bangladeshi Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, a popular figure among the protesters and who had been prosecuted by Hasinas government, was tapped to lead an interim government. The president has asked the people to help ride out the crisis. Quick formation of an interim government is necessary to overcome the crisis, the presidential press office said in a statement cited by the media, adding that the national police chief had been sacked. As the nation of 175 million faces political instability, heres what to know about Hasina, Yunus, and what comes next. Who is Sheikh Hasina and why was she ousted? Hasinas Awami League was central to Bangladeshs independence in 1971 and has played a prominent role in the countrys politics since its founding. Hasina, in office since 2009 after an earlier term from 1996 to 2001, was the worlds longest-serving female head of government when she left office, and she had overseen a period of rapid growth for Bangladesh, which today is South Asias second-largest economy after India. Hasinas focus on public health and economic development led to one of the most successful public health campaigns in South Asia and a dramatic reduction in the number of people in the country living in poverty. In the last years of her rule, however, arbitrary arrests, disappearances, and extra-judicial killings of her political opponents had become more frequent, and the last three elections were deemed to have too many irregularities to be declared free and fair by international observers. Read More: 5 Takeaways from TIMEs Interview with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Trouble for Hasina began when protests broke out last month after a Supreme Court ruling reinstated a 30% quota for the descendents of Bangladeshs independence fighters for government civil service jobs. These jobs are among the most secure and well-paying jobs available to young Bangladeshiswho face a youth unemployment rate of 15.7%, according to the World Bankand many university students believed the law was discriminatory and disproportionately benefited Hasinas political allies. What were initially peaceful student-led demonstrations turned violent when the Chhatra Leaguethe notoriously aggressive student wing of the Awami Leaguewere dispatched to confront the demonstrators. Resultant clashes led to the closure of all universities across the nation, curfews, shutdowns of the internet, and the deployment of security forces whose deadly, heavy-handed crackdown garnered public sympathy and brought even more protesters. Read More: How Mass Protests Challenge Bangladeshs Pastand Threaten to Rewrite Its Future Over the weekend, hundreds of thousands poured onto the streets, demanding Hasinas ouster, and by Monday their numbers had swelled to millions as they marched toward the Ganabhaban. Sheikh Hasina ruled by fear and that was the core element keeping her whole edifice of power intact, Mubashar Hasan, a Bangladeshi scholar at the University of Oslo in Norway, told TIME. But it has now come to a point where people have said, Enough is enough. Its not a protest anymore; its a peoples uprising. The key turning point appeared to come on Sunday when army chief General Waker-uz-Zaman said the military always stood by the people, and his influential predecessor, General Ikbal Karim Bhuiyan denounced egregious killings by Hasinas police forces and Awami League-aligned militias. Hasinawho had remained defiant up until the very end, calling protesters terrorists and traitorswas ultimately reported on Monday evening to be fleeing the country, and Waker-uz-Zaman confirmed her resignation in an address to the nation, as the protesters indignation turned to celebration. What happened after Hasina left? In his televised address on Monday, Waker-Uz-Zaman told the public that the military would ensure a peaceful transition of power and hold accountable those responsible for the killing of student protestors. Some have described Hasinas ouster as a coup. Bangladesh has faced over 20 coups or coup attempts since it achieved independence in 1971. The country had previously been under the rule of multiple military generals between 1975 and 1990 until a democratic government was reestablished. The military has historically held a significant amount of political power in the country, with the most recent foiled coup attempt occuring in 2012. Keep faith in the military, we will investigate all the killings and punish the responsible, Waker-Uz-Zaman said Monday, according to the Associated Press. I have ordered that no army and police will indulge in any kind of firing. Waker-Uz-Zaman also announced restoration of internet services and the lifting of curfews and blockades, and he asked student protestors to cooperate with the interim government. Now, the students duty is to stay calm and help us, he added. Shahabuddin also ordered the release of former Prime Minister and opposition leader Khaleda Zia. Zia, who had been convicted of corruption in 2018, was freed from house arrest on Tuesday. The rivalry between Hasina and Zia, the official chair of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, the largest opposition party in Bangladesh, has dominated Bangladeshi politics. But at 78 years old, Zia struggles with health issues. Whether or not she takes a prominent role in the countrys new government remains to be seen. Tarique Rahman, Zias son and the vice chair of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party who was forced into exile by Hasinas government, encouraged people to exercise restraint and patience as they wait for a new permanent government to form. It would defeat the spirit of the revolution that toppled the illegitimate and autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina if people decide to take the law into their own hands without due process, he posted on X. Nahid Islam, a leader of the student protests, said students wouldnt accept a government led or backed by the military, and he and other student leaders said theyd spoken with Yunus and hed be willing to lead. After negotiations on Tuesday between the student protest leaders, the President, and military leaders, the President announced that Yunus had been agreed upon to head the transitional government. Yunus is currently in Paris, where he was an advisor to the organizers of the Olympics and is reportedly due to have a medical procedure, but Nahid said he was expected to return to Bangladesh soon. Who is Muhammad Yunus? Born in 1940 in the seaside city of Chittagong, Yunus is a banker and economist by profession. He studied and taught in the U.S. and Bangladesh, where in 1983, as head of the economics department at Chittagong University, he founded Grameen Bank, which pioneered a system of microlendingproviding small, collateral-free and low-interest loans to people who would otherwise be unable to access credit so that they can start successful businesses to escape poverty. Yunus, who had earned the nickname banker to the poor, and Grameen Bank won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006. But his relationship with Hasina, who has since called him a bloodsucker, soured when he began to show an interest in politics in 2007. Hasinas administration began investigating Yunus in 2008, accusing him of using force to recover payments from poor, rural womenan accusation he has denied. In 2011, Yunus was forced out from Grameen Bank, widely believed to be under Hasinas pressure, though the current managing director of Grameen Bank insists the government played no role in his ouster. Read More: From Banker to the Poor to Bloodsucker: The Sorry Saga of Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus More recently, Yunus, who has been a vocal critic of Hasina, has been sentenced and is out on bail for one of more than 100 cases (mostly civil) he faces for alleged corruption, embezzlement, violations of labor laws, and morecharges he maintains are unfounded and politically motivated. In an interview with TIME earlier this year, when asked whats behind Hasinas hellbent crusade against him, Yunus said: Nobody can really answer; it doesnt make sense to anyone. But it goes on. After Hasinas ouster, Yunus told the Washington Post: Were all rejoicingthe monster who is on top of us has left. Today we are free, adding that he expected his fake cases to be dropped. As for the future, he also told the Post: We had an imaginary election in the past. Now we need a real election. With reporting by Charlie Campbell. Correction, Aug. 7 The original version of this story misspelled the last name of Muhammad Yunus and misstated his age, which is 84 not 87. It also misspelled the name of the student wing of the Awami League, which is the Chhatra League, not the Chatra League. And it misnamed the largest opposition party in Bangladesh, which is the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, not the Bangladesh National Party. Contact us at letters@time.com. Port backlogs in Bangladesh remain problematic in the wake of nationwide violent protests and a sudden regime change. A day after the ongoing turmoil forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee the country and led to the dissolution of the countrys parliament, President Mohammed Shahabuddin appointed Muhammad Yunus to lead an interim government in Hasinas place. More from Sourcing Journal In selecting Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize winner in 2006, Shahabuddin aims to restore order in a country that has endured mass unrest which has led to a reported 440 deaths. The disruptions have severely hampered trade in and out of Bangladesh, halting the movement of rail cargo to and from the Chattogram Port. Although rail transportation of goods resumed on Aug 1., it was halted again just three days later on Sunday, resulting in a steady increase in the number of containers at the port. Chattograms port yard has a container storage capacity of 53,518 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs). But while there are normally between 30,000 and 32,000 TEUs of containers in the yard at a time, there were 44,117 TEUs in the yard, according to a report from Bangladeshi publication The Business Standard. Continued backlogs and delays will mean shippers will face additional storage costs for waiting containers and could lead to more rate increases, with some carriers already announcing mid-month increases, said Judah Levine, head of research at Freightos. According to port officials, from 8 a.m. on Monday to 8 a.m. Tuesday, only 329 TEUs were delivered from the port yard. Of these, shippers took in 125 TEUs, while the remaining 204 TEUs were sent to private container handling companies. The Bangladesh Inland Container Depots, which handle 93 percent of the countrys export goods, have seen about a 40 percent decrease in the receipt of export goods compared to normal days, alongside a decline in deliveries from the countrys key seaport. Container delivery operations at the port have once again come to a standstill over the past few days, Liakat Ali, port affairs secretary of the Chittagong C&F Agents Association, told The Business Standard. As vehicular movement on the Dhaka-Chattogram highway has almost come to a halt, most importers have not released their goods as of Tuesday. While the Chattogram port is open, businesses and logistics and transportation businesses have reportedly not wanted to move cargo due to security concerns since there is no traffic police presence on the highway. According to the Bangladesh Covered Van-Truck-Prime Mover Goods Transport Owners Association, roughly 10,000 vehicles typically move in and out daily from various ports in the country. Of these, approximately 6,000 vehicles transport goods from Chattogram each day. However, this number has now dropped to below 1,000 vehicles on average. Security concerns have extended to customs assessment activities at the Chattogram Customs House, the report said. The customs house suspended activity Tuesday. As a result, Ali said the Chittagong C&F Agents Association was unable to submit bills of entry for imports and bills of export for exportsfurther tying up goods at the ports and preventing their release. Chattogram Port, also known as Chittagong Port, had been shuttered for six days in late July, further exacerbating the congestion of trucks and vessels in the area as the protests engulfed the area. Berthing delays continue to take shape outside Chattogram, where more than 60 ships are queued up in a 25-nautical mile stretch, according to data from Vesselfinder. These delays are the worst in the world for any major port, according to container shipping consultancy Linerlytica, with many ships forced to wait in the Bay of Bengal for more than a week. Supply chain visibility technology provider Beacon said ships stopping at the Chittagong Port see an average of 5.2-days combined anchor and berth times as of July 24, more than three weeks after the student protests began. Beacons data said Chittagong is tied with Chinas Ningbo-Zhoushan for the second-most port congestion worldwide, after South Africas Port of Durban at a 7.2-day average. But compared to the month prior, Chittagong ports saw these times extended by 1.1 days, while Durbans congestion was relieved by 2.6 days on average. Ningbo-Zhoushan saw congestion averages cut down by 1.3 days. According to Freightos Terminal data, the congestion has resulted in a significant rise in export ocean container rates. Rates to the U.S. are now over 40 percent higher than two months ago, reaching about $8,650 per 40-foot container, Levine said. Rates from Chittagong to Rotterdam have increased nearly 170 percent to approximately $7,000 per container. The standstill of goods has impacted trade at another major gateway, the land port of Benapole, which connects Bangladesh with India. Benapole is where 78 percent of Indian exports enter Bangladesh, according to the Asian Development Bank. In the wake of Hasinas resignation and departure, no goods have been exported from India to Bangladesh since Monday morning, nor have any trucks entered Bangladesh from India or vice versa. Cargo handling at the port has also been suspended. Approximately 2,000 trucks were stranded at Benapole as of Tuesday. On average, 400 to 450 trucks import goods and 200 to 250 trucks export goods through the port daily. An aerial shows anti-government protesters gathered in front of the parliament building during celebrations after the resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Hasina. Zabed Hasnain Chowdhury/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa Bangladeshi President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday dissolved the national parliament paving the way for the formation of an interim government after prime minister Sheikh Hasinas ouster on Monday following mass protests. "The decision for the dissolution of parliament was taken following the president's discussions with chiefs of three staffs of armed forces, leaders of different political parties, representatives of civil society and leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Bangabhaban, the office of Bangladeshs ceremonial president, said in a press statement. The parliament that came into being after the January 7 election was boycotted by major political parties. Hasina became prime minister as her Awami League party had won an overwhelming majority. The Bangabhaban release also said that former prime minister Khaleda Zia, who is chairwoman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Hasinas main political rival, was released. On Monday the government said she would be freed. Zia was convicted in graft cases in 2018 and was living at her home in Dhaka after she was conditionally released from the jail on humanitarian grounds in 2022, as the government suspended her jail term. The statement also said that the process of releasing political prisoners, including those who were arrested during the anti-discrimination student movement, has started. People gather at the Japrabari police station in the aftermath of the prime minister's resignation. In an address to the nation, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced on 05 August that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned after weeks of unrest and an interim government will be formed to run the country. Habibur Rahman/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa Bangladeshi President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday dissolved the national parliament, paving the way for the formation of an interim government after prime minister Sheikh Hasinas ouster on Monday following mass protests. The protest organizers have proposed Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, 84, as the head of an interim government. The situation in the country remained tense as local media reported more than 100 people dead and numerous others injured in widespread violence that erupted after Hasina quit. Protest organizers pick 2006 Nobel winner Nahid Islam, one of the top coordinators of the protests, said in a video message posted on Facebook early on Tuesday that the 84-year-old Nobel laureate had agreed to take on the role. "He has given consent considering the present situation of the country as we communicated him," Nahid said adding the names of the other members of the interim administration would be made public later in the day. Yunus, a social entrepreneur, banker and economist, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for pioneering the concepts of microcredit and microfinance. Government dissolved in consultation with army, others "The decision for the dissolution of parliament was taken following the president's discussions with chiefs of three staffs of armed forces, leaders of different political parties, representatives of civil society and leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Bangabhaban, the office of Bangladeshs ceremonial president, said in a press statement. The parliament that came into being after the January 7 election was boycotted by major political parties. Hasina became prime minister as her Awami League party had won an overwhelming majority. Key Hasina opponent Zia freed from house arrest The Bangabhaban statement also said that former prime minister Khaleda Zia, who is chairwoman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Hasinas main political rival, was released. On Monday the government said she would be freed. Zia was convicted in graft cases in 2018 and was living at her home in Dhaka after she was conditionally released from the jail on humanitarian grounds in 2022, as the government suspended her jail term. The statement also said that the process of releasing political prisoners, including those who were arrested during the anti-discrimination student movement, has started. Massive violence, deaths following Hasina's exit More than 100 people were killed and numerous others were injured in violence that erupted nationwide after Hasina resigned, local media reported on Tuesday. Most deaths came from protesters attacks on police buildings, including the headquarters, public establishments, residences of many supporters of Hasinas Awami League party and their businesses across the country, the reports said. Bangla daily Prothom Alo reported some 109 people were killed during Mondays vandalism. The newspaper put the death toll at 440 since July 16, when violence flared up during the anti-government protests. The death toll could not be verified independently by dpa. Firefighters retrieved bodies of 24 people from a residential hotel owned by a local Awami League leader in south-western town of Jessore after the facility was set to fire, an official said. The firefighters could not reach the scene immediately as the protesters kept obstructing the roads for hours after the incident, said Mamun Mahmud, an official at the Fire Service and Civil Defence department in the town. Most of the victims died of suffocation, he added. In another arson attack, firefighters found the charred bodies of four people in a six-storyed building owned by a leader of the Awami League party in south-western Chuadanga district after the protesters set fire to it, Bangla daily Prothom Alo reported. In southern Chandpur district, a mob lynched a low-level local government official who was loyal to the Awami League - and his son - while as they were trying to flee the area, the newspaper said. Some 518 prison inmates fled after a mob broke opened a jail in northern Sherpur district in the afternoon, Abdullah Al Khairum, the chief district administrator said, adding that the mob looted arms, ammunitions and other valuables from the prison facility on Monday soon after the news aired that Hasina resiged. As of midnight on Monday (1800 GMT), bodies of at least 40 people from different parts of the capital were taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital morgue, said Bachhu Mia, an officer at the hospitals police outpost. He said most of the victims died when police fired gunshots in self defence after a mob of thousands attacked and set fire to the police stations in Dhakas eastern Jatrabari, Uttara, Badda and Bongshal neighbourhoods. Some 397 people who suffered bullet wounds were being treated at the health facility, the officer said. Most of Dhakas police stations remained empty on Tuesday as the officers were pulled back to police barracks over safety, an official at the Dhaka Metropolitan police said on condition of anonymity. Offices and schools were opened as curfew was lifted on Tuesday morning, but the attendence was very low. Dhaka's traffic was thin with three-wheeler rickshaws dominatting the streets. The protest, organized by Anti-discrimination Student Movement, started in early July and initially demanded an end to a controversial government job quota system. They spread nationwide and turned violent in the mid-July as clashes between the police and protesters killed more than 200 people. A view of the burnt Awami League party office after it was set on fire in the aftermath of the prime minister's resignation. In an address to the nation, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced on 05 August that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned after weeks of unrest and an interim government will be formed to run the country. Habibur Rahman/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa People gather around a dead body near the Japrabari police station in the aftermath of the prime minister's resignation. In an address to the nation, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced on 05 August that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned after weeks of unrest and an interim government will be formed to run the country. Habibur Rahman/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa (Bloomberg) -- Bangladesh dissolved national parliament on Tuesday, paving the way for the formation of a military-backed interim government and fresh elections after the ouster of long-time leader Sheikh Hasina. Most Read from Bloomberg Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin took the step to dissolve the current parliament and begin a process to form an interim government, according to his press secretary Joynal Abedin. Shahabuddin directed the authorities to lift the curfew earlier in the day after more than two weeks of clashes between Hasinas supporters, security forces and student-led protesters. Bangladeshs powerful army chief Waker-Uz-Zaman is looking to set up an interim government in consultation with the president. What happens next after Hasina, who turned Bangladesh into an economic success and ruled with an iron fist, remains unclear. It is possible the interim government excludes her Awami League party, which won almost 80% of the parliamentary seats in a boycotted vote in January. While Shahabuddin has vowed to hold elections as soon as possible, its unclear if Hasinas allies will be able to participate or return to power. Thousands of jailed protesters were freed, as well as Hasinas rival and opposition leader Khaleda Zia a former prime minister herself. The student-led protesters are pushing for Nobel Peace Prize winning economist Muhammad Yunus to lead the interim government. Listen and follow The Big Take Asia on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts Investors are betting on a smooth transition with a key Bangladesh stock index surging by the most since March 2020. Still, the interim government will have to focus on the economy that has struggled to gain its footing since the pandemic and has come under pressure from the curfews and recent internet blackouts. The new government may also have to negotiate with the International Monetary Fund and other creditors for more cash to bolster dwindling reserves. The multilateral lender, which approved a $4.7 billion loan program last year, said it would continue to support efforts to ensure economic stability and deliver inclusive growth, according to a Reuters report. These events in Bangladesh could not have come at a worse time given that it was regaining some amount of macro-stability after having taken the tough policy measures linked to the IMF program, said Ruchir Desai, fund manager at Asia Frontier Capital, which has been adding to its position in Bangladesh stocks in the past two months. Hasina, who fled the country to India by helicopter shortly before protesters ransacked the presidential palace, hasnt spoken publicly. Indian television channel News18 reported she is stationed at Hindon airbase on the outskirts of New Delhi for the next few days. Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said Hasina had requested approval to come for the moment to India, confirming a Bloomberg news report. She was initially heading for the UK though it is increasingly unclear where she will go from India. The situation in Bangladesh is still evolving, Jaishankar told Indian parliament on Tuesday. In the last 24 hours, we have also been in regular touch with the authorities in Dhaka. Iron Hands Hasina was the worlds longest serving female head of a government, winning a fourth term as prime minister in an election in January that was boycotted by her opponents and voters. The US, the biggest buyer of Bangladeshs exports, had criticized the polls, and imposed visa curbs on members of Hasinas party and law enforcement officials in September. While the Awami League party dominates parliament, the army chief invited none of its members to talks on forming an interim government. The constitution, if it were followed, requires any prime minister to command majority support in parliament. Officials in her party didnt answer calls seeking comment on Monday. US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said Monday that Washington welcomes the forming of an interim government and that all decisions should be made with respect to democratic principles, rule of law and the will of the Bangladeshi people. We are focused now on supporting an end to the violence and accountability, Miller said. Hasina had faced pressure to resign for weeks as the demonstrations turned deadly. Local TV channels showed protesters looting her official residence on Monday afternoon, taking away furniture and food. What started out in late June as peaceful protests seeking to abolish a government jobs quota turned into deadly unrest in recent weeks with demonstrators seeking to oust Hasina who showed little sign of backing down at the time. Her sudden resignation follows a weekend of student-led clashes with pro-government supporters that pushed the death toll from the violence since mid-July to about 350 people, according to news reports and data from local hospitals and police stations. On Monday, thousands of students defied a government-imposed curfew to march through Dhaka, chanting We will not go back. TV channels showed troops trying to control huge crowds of people who had walked through the night to the capital to take part in the protests. A few jubilant demonstrators were seen hugging soldiers. Hasinas father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was killed in a coup in 1975 when he was prime minister. Protesters took hammers to a statue of the independence leader in Dhaka. Hasinas son and former official adviser, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, said his mother had not done anything wrong and had provided the best government in the country. She is disappointed and disheartened, he told India Today. She fought militancy with iron hands, she is done. --With assistance from Anup Roy, Sudhi Ranjan Sen, Iain Marlow, Faseeh Mangi and Yasufumi Saito. (Updates throughout.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. People gather in front of the parliament building during celebrations after the resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Hasina. Sazzad Hossain/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa The protest organizers have proposed Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus as the head of an interim government to be formed after Bangladesh's prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India following weeks of violent protests. Nahid Islam, one of the top coordinators of the protests, said in a video message posted on Facebook early on Tuesday that the 84-year-old Nobel laureate had agreed to take on the role. "He has given consent considering the present situation of the country as we communicated him," Nahid said adding the names of the other members of the interim administration would be made public later in the day. Yunus, a social entrepreneur, banker and economist, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for pioneering the concepts of microcredit and microfinance. Weeks of violent student protests led to the toppling of Hasina's government on Monday, marking a tumultuous end to her 15-year tenure. Around 300 people have been killed in the demonstrations. Both celebrations and widespread violence were reported across Bangladesh following the resignation. The protesters said Hasina was an autocrat who used excessive force to quell the demonstrations, which began in early July. The demonstrations against Hasina's government began early last month after a High Court bench reinstated a controversial government job quota system, which was abolished in 2018. The protests turned violent nationwide in mid-July, and some 200 people were killed in clashes between the police and protesters, prompting the government to deploy army troops and impose curfew before the quota system reforms were made public on July 23. Last month's protests seemed to have calmed down somewhat but flared up again on Friday to demand justice for the victims of the killings. BEIJING, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Individuals in the Philippines should stop making groundless accusations against China over the South China Sea issue, and countries outside the region are hoped to do things that are conducive to regional peace and stability, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Tuesday. Mao's remarks came after the Philippines and Germany on Sunday pledged to sign a defence cooperation arrangement this year, vowing to "uphold international rules-based order" over disputed areas of the South China Sea. Noting China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea are consistent with relevant international law and practice, Mao said it is the Philippines, not China, that is stirring up trouble in the South China Sea. "Individuals in the Philippines should correct their wrong understanding and stop making groundless accusations," Mao said. Freedom of navigation in the South China Sea has never been an issue, the spokesperson said, adding it is meaningless to fabricate a narrative based on this false proposition. "Countries outside the region are hoped to do things that are conducive to regional peace and stability," she said. FILE- Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus speaks to the media after he was granted bail by a court in an embezzlement case, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Sunday, March 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Mahmud Hossain Opu, File) DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus will head Bangladesh's interim government after longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country amid a mass uprising that left hundreds of people dead and pushed the South Asian nation to the brink of chaos. The decision, announced early Wednesday by Joynal Abedin, the press secretary of the countrys figurehead President Mohammed Shahabuddin, came during a meeting that included military chiefs, organizers of the student protests that helped drive Hasina from power, prominent business leaders and civil society members. A longtime political opponent of Hasina, Yunus is expected to return soon from Paris, where he is advising Olympic organizers, media reports said. An economist and banker, he was awarded the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize for his work developing microcredit markets. Yunus has been hailed for bringing thousands out of poverty through Grameen Bank, which he founded in 1983, and which makes small loans to businesspeople who wouldn't qualify for regular bank loans. Other members of the new government would be decided soon, after discussions with political parties and other stakeholders, Abedin said. The president had dissolved Parliament on Tuesday, clearing the way for an interim administration and new elections. Shahabuddin also ordered the release of opposition leader Khaleda Zia from house arrest, a longtime Hasina rival who was convicted on corruption charges in 2018. The streets of Dhaka, the capital, were calm Tuesday, a day after violence swept parts of the country amid Hasina's sudden departure. On Tuesday, jubilant protesters thronged the ousted leaders residence, some posing for selfies with soldiers guarding the building after Monday's wave of looting. The Bangladesh Police Association went on strike after police stations and security officials were attacked across the country Monday. The association said many officers had been killed but gave no number. Officers would not return to work unless their safety is assured, the association said. It also apologized for police attacks on student protesters, saying officers were forced to open fire. Yunus, who had called Hasina's resignation the countrys second liberation day, had faced corruption charges during her rule that he derided as politically motivated. He could not immediately be reached for comment, but a key organizer of the protests, Nahid Islam, said he had agreed to head the interim administration. Islam said protesters would propose more names for the Cabinet and suggested that it would be difficult for those in power to ignore their wishes. Hasina fled to India by helicopter as protesters defied a military curfew to march on the capital, with thousands eventually storming her residence and other buildings associated with her party and family. The unrest began in July with protests against a quota system for government jobs, which critics said favored people with connections to her party. But they soon grew into a broader challenge to Hasina's 15-year rule, which was marked by human rights abuses, corruption, allegations of rigged elections and a brutal crackdown on her opponents. The government's violent response to the demonstrations, which killed about 300 people in just a few weeks, only fueled the protests more. The quick move to choose Yunus came after Hasina's resignation created a power vacuum and left the future unclear for Bangladesh, which has a history of military rule, messy politics and myriad crises. The military wields significant influence in a country that has seen more than 20 coups or coup attempts since its independence from Pakistan in 1971. Military chief Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman said Monday he had taken temporary control while a new government is formed. Amid the celebrations, student Juairia Karim said it was a historic day. Today we are getting what we deserve, she said. Everyone is happy, everyone is cheerful. But the country was still counting the toll of weeks of violence that produced some of its worst bloodshed since its war of independence. Many fear that Hasina's departure could trigger even more instability in the densely populated nation of some 170 million people, which is already dealing with high unemployment, corruption and climate change. Violence in just the few days surrounding Hasina's resignation killed at least 109 people including 14 police officers, and left hundreds of others injured, according to media reports which could not be independently confirmed. In the southwestern district of Satkhira, 596 prisoners and detainees escaped from a jail after an attack on the facility Monday evening, the United News of Bangladesh agency reported. There are growing fears among the countrys Hindu minority, which has been targeted in the past during political unrest and which has long been seen as pro-Hasina, that they could again face attacks. Local reports of violence against Hindu leaders and other minorities could not be confirmed. Hindus are very afraid, Charu Chandra Das Brahmachari, leader of the Bangladesh branch of a Hindu movement, told the IANS news service. Hindus are very afraid that they could be attacked anytime. This is because whenever the government falls, minorities are affected. The EU ambassador to Bangladesh, Charles Whitley, said on the social media platform X that European diplomats were very concerned about reports of anti-minority violence. Opposition politicians have publicly called on people not to attack minority groups, while student leaders asked supporters to guard Hindu temples and other places of worship. The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Tuesday urged people to exercise restraint in what it said was a transitional moment on our democratic path. It would defeat the spirit of the revolution that toppled the illegitimate and autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina if people decide to take the law into their own hands, Tarique Rahman, the party's acting chairman, wrote on X. I think the next leader of the country should learn from the students that if anyone becomes corrupt, a traitor, or takes any action against the country, they will face the same fate," said Mohammad Jahirul Islam, a student in Dhaka. Hasina, 76, was elected to a fourth consecutive term in January, an election boycotted by her main opponents. Thousands of opposition members were jailed before the vote, and the United States and the United Kingdom denounced the result as not credible. After fleeing Dhaka, Hasina landed Monday at a military airfield near New Delhi and met Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, the Indian Express newspaper reported. She planned to travel to the United Kingdom, it said. Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told Parliament that Hasina "at very short notice requested approval to come for the moment to India. ___ Saaliq reported from New Delhi, India. Bangladeshs Sheikh Hasina to seek asylum in UK despite calls for probe into her protest crackdown Bangladeshs Sheikh Hasina to seek asylum in UK despite calls for probe into her protest crackdown Bangladeshs former prime minister Sheikh Hasina is reportedly awaiting confirmation from the UK on her request for political asylum after being forced to flee the country on a military helicopter due to widespread violence. Ms Hasina, 76, arrived in neighbouring India on Monday, moments before angry protesters stormed into her residence demanding her resignation after more than two decades in the countrys politics. Anger mounted against the Hasina government after protests against a quota system in government jobs met with harsh repression by government forces, killing more than 400 people. After landing in Indias northeastern city of Agartala, Ms Hasina arrived in New Delhi with her sister and requested asylum from the British government, according to CNN-News18. However, Ms Hasina has been forced to extend her stay in New Delhi as she has received no confirmation from the UK, sources told the broadcaster. Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told parliament on Tuesday that Ms Hasina requested approval to arrive in India at very short notice and her request for was approved for the moment. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from the Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi, he said. He said the Indian government has been in regular touch with the Dhaka authorities for the last 24 hours. I seek the understanding and support of the House in regard to sensitive issues regarding an important neighbour on which there has always been a strong national consensus, he said. Ms Hasina is accompanied by her younger sister Sheikh Rehana, who holds British citizenship. Ms Rehanas daughter Tulip Siddiq is a member of the British parliament for the Labor Party. The embattled leaders request from the UK is in limbo as British foreign secretary David Lammy has called for a UN-led investigation into the deadly protests and tragic loss of lives in Bangladesh. Mr Lammy said in a statement the UK and Bangladesh have deep people-to-people links and shared Commonwealth values. All sides now need to work together to end the violence, restore calm, de-escalate the situation and prevent any further loss of life. The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past few weeks. He described violence in Bangladesh as unprecedented as he set out the UKs ambition for Bangladesh to reach a peaceful and democratic future. The UK and the Indian government have given no official statements on the developments. The protest over the quota system, which reserved a third of civil service jobs for descendants of veterans of the countrys 1971 independence war with Pakistan, was the sternest challenge to her 15 years in power. The protests that began in late June turned deadly after her government issued nationwide shoot-on-sight policy, imposed frequent communication blackouts and curfews across the country as students hit the streets. Most of the quota was scaled back after the Supreme Court ruling last month in favour of students but protests continued as people demanded accountability for the deaths of those killed. On Monday, 135 more people were killed across Bangladesh in incidents of police firing, clashes and arson as hundreds of thousands participated in the march called to Dhaka by protest leaders, reported the Dhaka Tribune. Widespread incidents of looting, vandalism and arson were reported in parts of the country along with reports of escalated attacks on Hindu minorities. The US government commended Bangladeshs Army for its "restraint" and called for an interim government that is democratic. "The United States has long called for respecting democratic rights in Bangladesh, and we urge that the interim government formation be democratic and inclusive. We commend the Army for the restraint they have showed today," a White House spokesperson said on Monday. The EU also urged an "orderly and peaceful transition" towards a new democratically elected government in the country. Ms Hasinas son Sajeeb Wazed Joy and her allies have said she would not return to politics. "Shes in her late 70s. She is so disappointed that after all her hard work, for a minority to rise up against her, I think shes done, her son told BBC. Ms Hasina is known as the iron lady of Bangladesh who has spent a total of 20 years in office after first coming to power in 1996. This is the second time she has been forced into exile in her life. She first went into exile after her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the freedom fighter who founded Bangladesh, was assassinated along with her mother and three brothers in 1975. Bangladeshi Americans poured into the streets of Detroit and Hamtramck to celebrate the overthrow of a political leader in their native land they see as a tyrant. Others in the community expressed concern about the future of the eighth most populous country in the world, where a growing number of Michiganders have roots in. Waving Bangladeshi and American flags, hundreds gathered Monday evening at Jayne-Lasky Park in Detroit just north of the border with Hamtramck to mark a historic day in Bangladesh, where Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was flown out of the country after weeks of protests against her rule led to the military taking over. About 1,000 people marched briskly towards Hamtramck on Conant Avenue, part of which is named Bangladesh Avenue because of the city's sizable population of Bangladeshi residents. Among cities in the U.S. with more than 10,000 residents, Hamtramck has the highest percentage of people with roots in Bangladesh. Bangladeshi Americans hold up flags of Bangladesh at a rally celebrating the end of the rule of PM Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh, at Jayne-Lasky Park in Detroit on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. "Everybody's happy," said Asm Kamal Rahman, a longtime community activist in Hamtramck of Bangladeshi ancestry who opposes Hasina. "It's a celebration because the anarchy has ended and that democracy will prevail." Sweets in local Bangladeshi restaurants were sold out because so many were buying them to eat and celebrate, Rahman said. Nazmul Haque, of Hamtramck, was at the rally, helping sell specially-made T-shirts out of the back of a van. He wore a green T-shirt with a yellow map of Bangladesh on top of a red circle, symbolizing the colors used by protesters. Other T-shirts on sale for $25 showed pictures of protesters in Bangladesh, who have been demonstrating against Hasina for months, initially to oppose a government quota system created to help people who fought to liberate Bangladesh more than 50 years ago. "We're celebrating," Haque said. "We were having so much trouble with the ruling government. They killed more than 300 students. Sheik Hasina, she leave the country. And students now they get the freedom, we get our country back." More: Hamtramck city councilman running for 2 seats in Michigan's August primary Hundreds have died in Bangladesh in recent weeks amid the protests and government crackdown, the Associated Press and other media outlets have reported. In recent weeks, there have been several rallies in Hamtramck and Detroit both opposing Hasina and supporting her. The two previous rallies opposing Hasina were held at Jayne-Lasky Park on Sunday evening and on July 27, which State Sen. Stephanie Chang, D-Detroit, attended to show her support for the "student movement in Bangladesh and against the killings and oppression by the current government," Chang said on Instagram. Another rally was held on July 18 outside Hamtramck City Hall. Bangladeshi Americans march down Conant Avenue in Hamtramck to celebrate the downfall of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. There have been some rallies in Hamtramck in support of Hasina. Md Rabbi Alam, a Bangladeshi-American activist in Michigan, and Hamtramck Mayor Pro Tem Abu Musa, a city councilman, spoke out in support of Hasina at earlier rallies last month. "It's a great shame for the nation" of Bangladesh, Alam, chair of the Bangabandhu Commission and president of the Bangabandhu Society of USA, two groups that supported Hasina, said of her being removed. "It's a great harm and great loss for the developing country." Alam, who said his father and some uncles fought in Bangladesh's liberation war in 1971, accused the people opposed to Hasina of being religious extremists who will hurt the development of Bangladesh. Others on the city council of Bangladeshi descent appear to have supported the student protesters and are opposed to Hasina. The political divide reflects differences in Michigan's diverse Bangladeshi-American community, who are of different religions and come from various regions of Bangladesh. Hasina was seen as more of a secular leader and so some minorities in Bangladesh have expressed concern about the country's future. Hamtramck Mayor Amer Ghalib posted a statement on Facebook Monday that said: "Glory, victory and peace are my wishes to Bangladesh." Outside Aladdin Sweets and Cafe in Hamtramck, free Bengali sweets were distributed Monday to people celebrating the removal of Hasina. On the corner of Conant and Commor outside the popular Bangladeshi restaurant, signs reads "Bangladesh Ave." and "Celebrating Our Diversity" on top of the street sign for Conant. Several gathered early Monday morning shortly after the news broke that Hasina had fled, posts on Facebook showed. Just north of the restaurant, on Conant Avenue and Caely Street, a large stone mural of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, known as Bangabandhu ("Friend of Bengal"), the father of Bangladesh, used to sit on a lawn inside a fenced area. But on Monday evening, all that remained were its charred remains and a sign describing him lying in the lawn that read: "Father of the Nation. Bangladesh. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman." On Sunday, at about noon, a Facebook post showed the mural partially burnt with smoke coming out of it. A Hamtramck police dispatcher said Monday night she was not aware of any reports or arrests made. The mural has been vandalized before. On a lawn in a fenced area on Conant Avenue and Caely Street in Hamtramck are the charred remains of what was once a large stone mural of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, known as Bangabandhu ("Friend of Bengal"), the father of Bangladesh. Photo taken evening of August 5, 2024. A sign describing him lay in the lawn that read: "Father of the Nation. Bangladesh. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman." Unclear if someone or a group set fire to the mural. On Sunday at about 12 noon, a Facebook post showed the mural partially burnt with smoke coming out of it. The destruction of the mural echoed scenes out of Bangladesh, where a giant statue of Rahman was toppled Monday by protesters, reported the BBC and other media outlets. Hasina is a daughter of Rahman, who was assassinated in 1975 when he was Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Rahman is seen by many Bangladeshis as a hero who liberated the country in 1971, but there have been growing protests against Hasina in recent years. Up until recently, there were posters or paintings of Rahman on walls in Hamtramck, but no longer appear to exist. There are close to 16,000 residents in Michigan of Bangladeshi descent, with about a quarter of them, 4,113, in Hamtramck, according to 2020 census data. A majority of Michigan's Bangladeshi American population are believed to be Muslim with many also in Hindu, Buddhist and Christian communities. There are mosques, Hindu temples and a Buddhist center in metro Detroit with Bangladeshi American congregations. Some in Michigan's Bangladeshi American Hindu communities have expressed concern about their status in Bangladesh, holding some protests over the years in metro Detroit. They were worried about reports that some religious minorities were being attacked by protesters on Monday. "We're very concerned to see the unrest in Bangladesh and are especially concerned with reports of violence and vandalism of local temples and people at risk there," said Lakshmi Vadlamudi, executive board members of the Hindu Community Relations Council of Michigan. "We have a vital Bangladeshi community here in Michigan and our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Bangladesh." Rahman said that there has been "lots of bloodshed" in recent weeks. "A lot of people died." He said it was time for Hasina to leave. Community activist Asm Kamal Rahman celebrated the downfall of PM Sheikh Hasina. He's pictured here speaking at a rally in front of Hamtramck City Hall on Friday, March 22, 2019 at Zussman Park in remembrance of the fallen in New Zealand terror attack and to stand against Islamophobia. "People are happy," Rahman said. "They've been in power for a long time, without any good elections. They had this election, but they were rigged." Matthew Miller, a spokesman for the U.S. State Department, addressed the events in Bangladesh during a press briefing. "We are monitoring the situation carefully," Miller said Monday. "The United States stands with the people of Bangladesh. We urge all parties to refrain from further violence. Too many lives have been lost over the course of the past several weeks, and we urge calm and restraint in the days ahead. We welcome the announcement of an interim government and urge any transition be conducted in accordance with Bangladeshs laws." Contact Niraj Warikoo: nwarikoo@freepress.com or X @nwarikoo This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Bangladeshi Americans in Michigan celebrate removal of Sheikh Hasina Anti-government protesters gather at Prime Minister Hasina's palace in Dhaka, which they had previously stormed. Following weeks of violent student protests that left roughly more than 300 people dead, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned, army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said on 05 August. Km Asad/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa Just hours after the Bangladeshi prime minister resigned and fled the country on Monday, the country's president said he would dissolve parliament and form an interim administration. The announcement from Mohammed Shahabuddin, in a televised address to the nation, came at the end of a tumultuous day in which former prime minister Sheikh Hasina quit and fled to India. Weeks of violent student protests led to the toppling of Hasina's government on Monday, marking the end to her 15-year tenure. Around 300 people have been killed in the demonstrations. Shahabuddin's decision came after a meeting on Monday night with opposition political leaders, who decided to release former prime minister Khaleda Zia, who was jailed in a 2018 graft case. The meeting also decided to free all prisoners detained during the anti-discrimination student movement. Zaynal Abedin, the president's press officer, told state-run Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha news agency that the meeting, attended by leaders from various opposition political parties, unanimously decided to release Zia. Zia, who is the head of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and an arch political rival of Hasina, was jailed over misappropriating funds meant for orphans. But she has been living at home in Dhaka after the government released her on humanitarian grounds in 2022 and suspended the prison term. Meanwhile, the Bangladeshi army said it would lift a curfew, in place overnight, on Tuesday morning. In a statement, the army said all government and private institutions will open from 6am (0000 GMT) on Tuesday. Army chief Waker-Uz-Zamanhe called on protesting students to remain patient and refrain from further violence. Justice will be done for all those killings and atrocities. Please keep confidence in the army, he urged. Two coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement said in a statement that power must be handed over to the interim government. We will not accept any other proposal, said the statement, signed by Nahid Islam and Ashif Mahmud. The fascist killers will be punished in the land; they will not be allowed to flee, it said, adding that every innocent civilian who was arrested and political prisoners will be freed. Following the news of Hasina's resignation, protesters set fire to Awami League offices in Dhaka. Protesters seen dancing and chanting slogans against Hasina gathered at Dhaka University campus, the initial site of the protests against the controversial public job quota system. Thousands of protesters stormed the prime minister's official residence, known as the Ganabhaban, in Dhaka after she had left the country. In online footage, protesters can be seen looting items from the residence, swimming in the pool, and smoking cigarettes in the chambers of the members of parliament. The authorities had already given in to the students' demands to reform an unpopular job quota system, after protests in mid-July left more than 200 people dead. Since then, protesters have been asking the government to ensure justice for the victims of police atrocities, lift the curfew and reopen educational institutions. Over the weekend, students escalated their demands and there were more violent clashes which reportedly led to about 100 more deaths, including 14 policemen. Hasina has been criticized for being authoritarian by political opponents and international rights groups. But her supporters call her the daughter of democracy. Along with her younger sister Sheikh Rehana, she escaped a brutal military coup in 1975 which saw her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and most of her family assassinated. Returning from exile in 1981, Hasina assumed leadership of the Awami League party. Under her guidance, the party played a pivotal role in the "anti-autocrat" movements against military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad in the 1980s. In 1996, she became prime minister for the first time after her party secured victory in the parliamentary elections, marking the beginning of her leadership which lasted for five years. Since then, her party has won several general elections, most recently in 2024. However, opposition groups alleged electoral fraud. Anti-government protesters gather at Prime Minister Hasina's palace in Dhaka, which they had previously stormed. Following weeks of violent student protests that left roughly more than 300 people dead, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned, army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said on 05 August. Km Asad/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa A 32-year-old Hayward man, who was not wearing a life jacket, died in a drowning Saturday in the American River near Rancho Cordova, authorities said. Kelvin Manabat Felarca died in the drowning Saturday, the Sacramento County Coroners Office confirmed Tuesday. Felarcas body was recovered about 100 yards downstream from where he went under the water and didnt come up, said Battalion Chief Parker Wilbourn, a spokesman for the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District. A Sacramento County Sheriffs Office dive team recovered the mans body. Boats search the American River after a man rafting with a large group went underwater near Clay Banks in Rancho Cordova on Saturday, June 15, 2024. Dive teams have been deployed after rescuers were unable to find the man. Wilbourn said Felarca was not wearing a life jacket when he was last seen playing in the water near the El Manto River Access, also known as the Clay Banks. The Metro Fire spokesman also said Saturdays incident, before it became a recovery operation, was the seventh water rescue reported to the agency in a week. We continue to tell people to wear life jackets, and they dont, Wilbourn told The Sacramento Bee on Tuesday. The water is still cold (despite this summers triple-digit weather). There are areas in the river moving faster than others. Wilbourn confirmed Metro Fire has responded to 54 water rescues from May through July this year. In that same time period, the agency responded 43 water rescues last year and 33 in 2022. KCRA 3 first reported on Monday the number of water rescues Metro Fire has responded to and the overall number of drownings throughout the county. On Tuesday, Sacramento County Coroner Rosa Vega told The Bee there have been 20 drowning deaths reported in the county. In the same time period last year, there were 26 drowning deaths in Sacramento County; there were 38 total reported drownings in 2023. Wilbourn urged those heading to the regions rivers to wear a life jackets and choose to rent a durable life raft to float down the river. He said too many people continue to purchase their own inflatable rafts, which arent that much better than an inflatable for your pool. There are plenty of hazards in the river that can puncture or entangle a cheap raft and lead to a water rescue, Wilbourn said. Several more dilapidated boats have been removed from Bayou Chico in West Pensacola as part of an ongoing effort to clean up the waterway. The county and neighbors say its progress, but theres still a lot more work to be done. Escambia Countys Marine Resources Division recently removed three derelict vessels from the bayou with the help of state funds provided for the removal from Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. They spent just under $7,000 to remove a sunken, unnamed, 29-foot Blue Columbia sailboat. It cost about $10,000 to remove a 36-foot Trojan cabin motorboat called Shark, which was listing and loaded with an array of junk, and it cost more than $9,500 to remove an unnamed 33-foot cabin motorboat also sinking in the bayou. Now that the vessels are gone there are currently no derelict vessels in Bayou Chico, as defined by state and county statutes. However, county staff say they are starting the process to have two new boats declared sunk and half-sunk and theyre monitoring 10 additional vessels that appear to be at risk of becoming derelict due to declining condition or lack of current registration. Theres another vessel just outside of Bayou Chico the county has requested to start the declaration process that it is sunk, as well. David McDonald, a member of the Bayou Chico Association, said cleaning up boats in Bayou Chico is an ongoing effort. In part he says, because current laws dont have enough teeth to address problem vessels until they go under. We are the place that boats go to die, McDonald said. I and Bayou Chico Association believe that the derelict and abandoned statues are insufficient. Abandoned is not obvious until it sinks. You know what is derelict? The boat is dirty, and the owner says, It's not derelict. I take it out every weekend. So derelict and abandoned has been in Florida law forever and the county laws address derelict and abandoned, but it's insufficient because it's such a gray area, there's no enforcement of it until it sinks. Bayou Chico: Neighbors battle abandoned boats. Getting rid of them isn't easy. Escambia Countys Marine Advisory Committee and Natural Resources department are partnering with the Bayou Chico Association to find solutions. Theyre looking at different legal options and one is to create a permitted mooring area in the bayou. The goal would be to give people a place to lawfully moor their boat and in turn, hold those accountable who are abandoning or not keeping up their vessel. We're looking at that as one of the potential tools to help deal with some of the derelict vessels that keep popping up everywhere, said Tim Day, Escambia County's natural resources management director. We're still evaluating it to make sure that it'll have the intended effect. It's providing options where basically, you can go ahead and moor your boat lawfully and safely and when you do that, then the flip side is you can start regulating people that are just anchoring their boat. People parking their boats or floating structures is a problem that keeps cropping up in Escambia County, but Bayou Chico has been hit the hardest. Often the vessels arent registered or don't work properly so they are safety concern to the environment and a risk to break loose and damage other property during storms. Thats what happened last August, when a two-story floating structure tore loose from its mooring during a storm and ran aground. Neighbors had complained to the county for months about the monstrosity, which did not have plumbing, a motor or bathrooms. It was loaded with items that indicated people had been living on it, and two other boats, one piled with junk, were attached to it. The situation prompted Escambia County to pass an ordinance banning floating structures, but moving the castaway cabin is still an issue. The structure changed owners and, under pressure from the county to remove it, the new owner made an agreement to temporarily dock it at Bell Marine Services on Bayou Chico until he could move it. That was in January and the four-bedroom structure is still there. The owner of Bell Marine Services says the floating cabin was supposed to have been removed already, but that hasnt happened yet, and the owner is two months past due on his lease. Bell Marine says if its not moved soon, they may start the process to legally take possession and if that happens, theyll dismantle the living quarters and determine if the barge its built on can be repurposed. In the meantime, the county has been levying daily fines against the owner of the floating structure, but because he doesnt own property in the county, that may not motivate him to move it. It's getting fined because the marina basically isn't properly licensed to be a marina, Day said. The owner has it tied up, but its still not in a lawful place for it to be stored. If they were to dismantle it and determine the barge is still functional and it was repurposed into something where it could have a normal function, obviously, that's good for everybody. All we want is something that's safe to be in the water when that hurricane comes. Day said the county will eventually step in if nothing is done about the floating structure, but no date has been set. Escambia County monitors the vessels in Bayou Chico monthly and removes abandoned and derelict boats as state funding becomes available. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Bayou Chico sinking boats. Why it's so hard clearing them out. A black bear was seen roaming in St. Clair County Monday off Illinois 157 in the former Centreville area and in or near the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows in Belleville, a state conservation police officer said. The St. Clair County sightings on Monday followed multiple sightings in Monroe County on Sunday. This bear is a male that likely swam across the Mississippi River from Missouri, which has a growing and established bear population, according to Illinois Conservation Police Officer Don Schachner. Schachner said it is likely that this bear is different from the one seen in Pope, Saline, Williamson and Jackson counties in southern Illinois throughout July. A Kentucky wildlife official believes that bear arrived in Illinois by swimming across the Ohio River from Kentucky and likely crossed the Mississippi River into Missouri at the end of July. With the latest bear sightings on Sunday and Monday in the heavily populated metro-east, Schachner asks residents to stay away from the bear and dont feed it. The best message to get out to the public is to give him his space, Schachner said. People have the tendency to gravitate to the bear and crowd the bear. Schachner recommends residents to just hang back, stay in the house, stay on the porch and let the bear do this thing. Hell move out of town relatively quickly, because they cover so much ground. Schachner said he encountered dozens of people trying to see the bear or get it to disperse in Monroe County Sunday. He said he asked people if they like the bear and everyone he met said yes. Heres what he then told them: If you like the bear and you want whats best for the bear, the best thing is to give it its space, back away, dont crowd it. Dont stress it out. Dont make it feel threatened. The bear sightings in southern Illinois this summer follow sightings in 2021 when a bear was seen in Monroe, Clinton, Washington and Franklin counties and another one was seen in Randolph County in June 2023. The Missouri Department of Conservation has reported there are about 900 bears in Missouri and a bear hunting season was established in 2021. This years season is scheduled for Oct. 21-30. Beep beep: What do you think of Austin-East's refreshed roadrunner, now the official logo? Austin-East Magnet High School's iconic roadrunner logo is getting a refresh. In a letter shared with the community and posted on social media, Principal Rob Speas said the new logo will provide consistency to the school's image. When he took over leading the school earlier this summer, Speas said, he noticed inconsistencies in the logo used by different departments. A new logo will serve as a strong identifier for students and the community that's invested in the school, Speas told Knox News. "Knox County Schools is working through an overall branding project with all KCS schools to identify 'official' school logos and marks," the letter said. The letter also states one of the biggest challenges the Austin-East faces is keeping academically, artistically and athletically talented students in East Knoxville and "keep(ing) other schools out." Austin-East has a history of losing students to other schools, and his goal is to retain the school's strongest talent. In an interview with Knox News, Speas said he was not referring to any specific school. Creating a new brand for the school with the new logo The new logo is "modern and appropriate for a high school setting," Speas' letter said. This new Austin-East logo will serve as the official logo for school communications moving forward. "A unified brand and image helps to define and market first class organizations," principal Rob Speas said. "We're not trying to erase our historical logos," Speas told Knox News. "Those are still images we're proud of," he said, but official communication for the school will use the new logo moving forward. Taking a cue from the University of Tennessee's playbook, Speas' letter mentioned "the Power T for Tennessee" and his desire to create similarly identifiable branding. "We believe that our school is a first class organization that deserves to look and feel like a first class organization," Speas said. "A unified brand and image helps to define and market first class organizations." The high school's new logo is inspired by the University of Texas at San Antonio's Roadrunner logo. The Austin-East logo is adapted to meet copyright regulations, with the colors changed to those of the Knoxville school: scarlet red and Columbia blue. Rob Speas, the new principal of Austin-East Magnet High School, speaks with Knox News on July 18. When he took over leading the school earlier this summer, Speas said, he noticed inconsistencies in the school's logo used by different departments. The new logo is the head of a fiercer-looking roadrunner than what Austin-East students and alumni are used to seeing. Areena Arora, data and investigative reporter for Knox News, can be reached by email at areena.arora@knoxnews.com. Follow her on X @AreenaArora and on Instagram @areena_news. This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Austin-East Magnet High School in Knoxville refreshes roadrunner logo AMMAN, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Tuesday urged intensified efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and prevent further escalation in the region. The minister made the remarks during phone calls with his counterparts in various countries on Tuesday, during which they looked into the Israeli offensive on the Gaza Strip and de-escalation in the region. Safadi discussed with his Qatari counterpart, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the severe deterioration in the region due to Israel's continued "aggression," and the repercussions of the assassination of Hamas Politburo Chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week, according to a statement by the foreign ministry. During the phone call, Safadi and the Qatari foreign minister affirmed that stopping the Israeli offensive is the first step towards defusing the tension and escalation that could push the entire region into more conflict and wars. In a phone conversation with Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, Safadi mentioned regional efforts to stop the dangerous escalation, achieve an immediate and lasting ceasefire, and deliver sufficient and immediate humanitarian aid to Gaza. When speaking with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the two ministers stressed the need of de-escalation of the situation in the Middle East. Safadi also spoke with Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib and Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, during which they discussed the dangerous escalation in the region, and the necessity of achieving an immediate ceasefire and ending the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. The Arnold Missouri Police Department said the patrol car's air conditioning system malfunctioned Arnold MO Police Department/facebook Arnold Police Department K-9 Vader A police dog in Missouri died last week after being left unattended in a patrol car and exposed to extreme heat. On July 31, 2024, we lost a member of our K-9 family in a tragic accident. Arnold Police Department K-9 Vader, 4 years of age, passed away from heat exhaustion, the Arnold Missouri Police Department on Aug. 1. Police did not disclose how long Vader was left inside the vehicle. The police department also did not identify Vaders K-9 handler, but said that the individual left the dog in a running, air-conditioned patrol vehicle." This is a necessary and common practice when the K-9 partner is not actively engaged in police work," police said. Arnold MO Police Department/facebook Arnold Police Department K-9 Vader Vaders handler claimed that once they returned to the vehicle, they discovered that the patrol cars air conditioning unit had malfunctioned, and immediately transported the animal to a local veterinarian clinic. After arriving, Vader is said to have shown signs of improvement, and was then transferred to a 24-Hour clinic where he would receive further treatment. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. However, things took a turn and the police K-9 succumbed to his injuries, the department said. The Arnold Missouri Police Department claimed they have proper protocols in place to avoid such incidents. All Arnold Police Department K-9 vehicles are equipped with a system that notifies the handler by phone, activates the emergency lights and siren, sounds the vehicle horn, activates cooling fans, and rolls down the vehicle windows, if the vehicle temperature increases to a certain level. In this instance, the heat alarm system failed to activate, their statement read. The department is investigating this tragedy to determine what went wrong," police said. Getty Stock image of police car Related: Police Dog Stabbed and Airlifted to Hospital After Standoff with 'Suicidal Man' Please keep Vaders handler, his family, and the members of the APD in your thoughts and prayers as we mourn the loss of our K-9 partner, the post, which included a photo of Vader, concluded. Temperatures in the area had been in the 90s, with high humidity all week, The Associated Press reported on Aug. 2. Vader is the second police dog to die a heat-related death in Missouri this year after a dog named Horus died in a hot car in Savannah, Mo., in June, per the AP. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. WASHINGTON D.C. (KNWA/KFTA) A Bentonville man has pleaded guilty to three charges in relation to the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, according to court documents. Nathan Earl Hughes, 34 (Courtesy of Washington County) Nathan Earl Hughes, 34, pleaded guilty to civil disorder, impeding passage through the Capitol grounds or buildings and assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers. Hughes had originally pleaded not guilty to those charges. His trial was set to start on Tuesday but on Monday morning, a docket entry filed in District of Columbia federal court said a plea hearing was set. Trial for Bentonville man arrested in Jan. 6 case canceled, plea hearing set Court documents say that video footage obtained by law enforcement shows Hughes in the vicinity of the Lower West Terrace tunnel for at least an hour. Hughes pushed against the police line in the tunnel and helped other rioters physically fight police in an attempt to breach the line and enter the U.S. Capitol building, a release from the Department of Justice said. At approximately 3:15 p.m., Hughes was at the mouth of the tunnel and signaled the crowd of rioters, Cmon! Cmon! while waving his hand in the direction of the tunnel. After signaling to the crowd, Hughes entered the tunnel and charged toward the police line. Hughes was reportedly observed using his elbow to strike in the direction of police. His sentencing date has been set for November 15 at 11 a.m. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. Beshear pledges support to Harris-Walz ticket, says it was an honor to have been considered Gov. Andy Beshear told reporters Monday that his being mentioned as a possible presidential contender is a positive reflection on Kentucky. The governor had just spoken at a celebration of Kentucky State Parks' 100th anniversary. (Kentucky Lantern photo by McKenna Horsley) Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and his vice presidential prospects had been the center of speculation in his home state for weeks. (Kentucky Lantern photo by McKenna Horsley) Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear in a social media post Tuesday morning said it was an honor to have been considered as a possible vice presidential nominee and pledged his support to the Harris-Walz ticket. Vice President Kamala Harris choice of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate ended speculation about Beshears chances of getting the nod and kicked off speculation about whether he would have a place in a Harris administration. Beshear called Walz a great friend and a great choice. I fully support this new ticket and will work to elect Kamala Harris as our next President of the United States, he said on X. Andy Westberry, a spokesperson for the Republican Party of Kentucky, called the news unsurprising. With the Kentucky Democrats echo chamber in the local press and social media coming to an end, its no surprise Kamala Harris took a pass on Andy, Westberry said in a statement. His years of controversy and lack of policy wins made choosing him a liability. Wesberry called the vice presidents pick of Walz a liability to our nations economy. Kentucky Democratic Party Chair Colmon Elridge applauded Harris choice and Walzs years of service in public school classrooms and as a congressman and governor. He said Walz is a devoted champion for working families, and has protected access to affordable health care, cut child poverty, protected reproductive rights, guaranteed meals for kids in public schools, and more. Beshear, a two-term Democratic governor was mentioned in media reports as recently as the weekend as a longshot possibility for the vice presidential nod. Harris met Sunday with Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona and Walz. Also mentioned as vice presidential prospects were Transportation Secretary Pete Buttegieg and North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, who took his name out of contention. Beshear, who has repeatedly said he wants to serve until the end of his term in 2027, last month said the only way I would consider something other than this current job is if I believed I could further help my people and to help this country. Our audience experiences team would love to hear our readers' thoughts on artificial intelligence. Please fill out this short survey and share your feedback. After several weeks of intense speculation and excitement among Democrats in the Bluegrass State, Vice President Kamala Harris has announced her running mate in the presidential election and it's not Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear. Presumptive Democratic nominee Harris instead chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Reuters reported citing CNN on Tuesday. Beshear said in post on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he was honored to be considered in the process and supported Walz as the vice presidential candidate. "Tim Walz is a great friend and a great choice," Beshear wrote. "I fully support this new ticket and will work to elect Kamala Harris as our next President of the United States." It was an honor to be considered in this process, but @Tim_Walz is a great friend and a great choice. I fully support this new ticket and will work to elect @KamalaHarris as our next President of the United States. Andy Beshear (@AndyBeshearKY) August 6, 2024 Beshears record of winning three statewide races, first as attorney general and then as governor, in deeply red Kentucky had attracted attention from Democrats nationwide and put him on the list as a vice presidential contender. Subsequent media appearances where Beshear criticized Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance for profiting from his ties to Appalachia raised hopes that Beshear might provide a useful add to the Democratic ticket. Thoughts about the VP decision? Submit your letter to the editor here And though it was clear from the start that Beshear would not likely help Democrats pick up Kentuckys eight electoral college votes, some analysts said the Gen X governor could help the party pick up votes in other midwestern battleground states. Whats next for Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear? Despite not getting the vice presidential nod, Beshear will likely continue to campaign for the Harris-Walz ticket. Hes slated to the attend the Democratic National Convention in Chicago from Aug. 19 22. Its also clear Beshear has been looking ahead for his political future. Even prior to the speculation surrounding the Democrats vice presidential pick reaching fever pitch in July, the second term Kentucky governor had started taking steps to build his national profile. For example, he founded a national political action committee called In This Together aimed at helping elect Democrats in red and purple states, and he booked appearances at other states Democratic events. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear speaks in front of a crowd in Forsyth County, Georgia on behalf of Vice President Kamala Harris' presidential campaign. Those activities got put on fast forward during the Democrats veepstakes, with Beshear making multiple cable news appearances and traveling to a Republican county in the battleground state of Georgia to rally Harris volunteers, alongside Kentucky abortion rights advocate Hadley Duvall. Beshear also picked up the endorsement of progressive Democrats from other states, who urged Harris to pick him or Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as the vice presidential nominee. All of those steps whether directly aimed at helping Beshear get the vice presidential pick or not will help Beshears future career, University of Kentucky political scientist Steven Voss told The Courier Journal. Due to Kentuckys term limits, Beshear will not be able to run for governor again when his term ends in 2027. Building his national name recognition and his credibility with Democratic insiders could set Beshear up for a cabinet nomination or to be chosen to run a think tank or other prominent institution. Since he is a lawyer, Beshear could also go on to a work on high profile cases or be a lobbyist in Washington, Voss said. Beshear might even be considering a 2026 run for senate, if Sen. Mitch McConnell does not run again, suggested Democratic campaign manager Danny Briscoe. However, Beshear does not want to run for that role, said his political strategist Eric Hyers. Asked what Beshear will do when his term ends in 2028, Hyers said, "I'm not sure he's got those plans yet." Reach Rebecca Grapevine at rgrapevine@courier-journal.com or follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @RebGrapevine. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear not picked as Democrats' VP nominee U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the Middle East at the White House in Washington WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with the leaders of Qatar and Egypt on Tuesday to discuss efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region and bring a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal, the White House said. A statement by the Egyptian presidency on the same day said that during the phone call with Biden, Sisi affirmed Cairos vision around the danger of the repercussions caused by the continuation of the war in Gaza and its negative impact on the regions stability, adding that reaching a ceasefire deal is considered the basis for restoring calm and stability in the region. The two leaders also agreed to continue working on reaching a ceasefire deal and implement a two-state solution, the Egyptian statement added. Egypt, Qatar and the U.S. have continued to mediate between Israel and Hamas to end the war in Gaza. (Reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt and Jaidaa Taha; Writing by Doina Chiacu; Editing by David Gregorio) Bill Montgomery speaks with reporters after his July 26 interview with the Commission on Appellate Court Appointments for a seat on the Arizona Supreme Court. Photo by Jerod MacDonald-Evoy | Arizona Mirror An Arizona Supreme Court Justice who once accused Planned Parenthood of committing genocide has refused to recuse himself from a case that will decide whether unborn human being is used to describe the states abortion rights initiative in an election information pamphlet sent to every voter in the state. My responsibility to perform my duties with honor and integrity and with fidelity to my oath of office is paramount to any opinion or feeling about any issue that may come before the Court, including this one, Justice Bill Montgomery wrote. Montgomerys order comes in response to a request from backers of the Arizona Abortion Access Act that he step away from a case involving the initiative, writing that his record of anti-abortion comments undermines his ability to be impartial. Asking the public to believe that a judicial officer who said such things publicly will be able to fairly adjudicate a case involving whether the phrase unborn human being is impartial strains credulity, wrote attorneys for the campaign behind the initiative. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Last year, while the Arizona Supreme Court considered taking on a lawsuit on whether to revive a near-total abortion ban from 1864 in which Planned Parenthood was one of the main litigants, statements made by Montgomery on social media and at a protest in front of organizations headquarters in Arizona resurfaced. In them, he accused the organization of the greatest generational genocide known to man and (killing) children and (selling) their body parts. After public backlash, Montgomery eventually chose to recuse himself from the case, though he initially stated that he would not. Attorneys for the abortion rights measure argued that Montgomerys anti-abortion stance and his criticism of Planned Parenthood are relevant to a new lawsuit launched by the campaign over a description of the initiative set to be included in a voter information pamphlet. The campaign is aiming to convince the court that a legislative panel controlled by anti-abortion Republicans violated state law when it voted to include the phrase unborn human being in the first sentence of a summary of the initiative that will be sent to voters before the November election. Arizona law mandates that lawmakers craft impartial summaries. In his order, Montgomery dismissed concerns that his impartiality is compromised, saying that previous case law has established that judges can have strong feelings about litigation, but that doesnt necessarily mean it makes them biased. And, he added, Planned Parenthood isnt directly involved in the case over the publicity pamphlet description, nor is the legal question at stake the same. This matter involves different parties and different issues, Montgomery wrote. While Planned Parenthood isnt a litigant in the case, it is one of the top donors to the plaintiff, and its Arizona branch is part of a coalition of reproductive rights groups that make up the Arizona for Abortion Access campaign. Attorneys for the abortion rights proposal urged Montgomery to withdraw from the case to remain consistent with last years recusal. But Montgomery disagreed with the premise that his previous recusal should inform his future decisions. He noted that he rejected last years request to recuse himself, only opting to step away voluntarily after additional information came to light. To date, he has not clarified what that information is. On top of that, he added, existing case law has maintained that judges must base their recusals on outside evidence, not past decisions. In their request for Montgomerys recusal, attorneys also argued that his anti-abortion stance indicates he has likely used language that mirrors that found in the contested voter publicity pamphlet, putting into question whether he can fairly rule on its legality. In their efforts to convince the courts that unborn human being is a politicized phrase, attorneys have frequently pointed to its similarity to language employed by anti-abortion groups in phrases like unborn child. Montgomery waved away that concern as speculative and not grounded in any evidence. Montgomerys refusal to step away from the case follows a decision from a fellow state Supreme Court justice to withdraw. Justice Clint Bolick, whose wife, Shawnna Bolick, is one of the eight Republican lawmakers that voted to include the phrase unborn human being in the description of the abortion rights measure, said he would recuse himself from the case last week. Montgomerys rejection cant be appealed. Dawn Penich, a spokeswoman for the Arizona for Abortion Access Campaign criticized Montgomerys decision, but said the group looks forward to winning the case at the high court just as it did in a lower court. Last month, a Maricopa County Superior Court judge ordered lawmakers to remove the phrase unborn human being from the summary, writing that it is too packed with emotional and partisan meaning to comply with state law. In an emailed statement, Penich added that Montgomerys refusal to step away from the case reflects poorly on the states judicial code of conduct. Justice Montgomery didnt deny making any of the inflammatory statements we identified, including referring to reproductive health care like abortion as atrocities and genocide, claiming health care providers kill children and sell their body parts and promising abortion rights advocates that the voice of the holy spirit will whisper in your souland you will not be at rest until you reconcile with the truth, she said. Instead, he took less than 24 hours to deny our motion for recusal by saying little more than trust me. We think the Code of Judicial Conduct requires more than that and are disappointed, but we will stay vigilant and hold him to his promise to be impartial. The Arizona Code of Judicial Conduct advises judges to recuse themselves from cases in which their impartiality might be reasonably questioned, including when a judge holds a personal bias against a party in the case. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) A bill designed to protect firefighters in Massachusetts from toxic chemicals is headed to Governor Healeys desk. Were putting on a set of gear that is suppose to protect us from carcinogens, dangers, hazards of the profession knowing that we are putting something on our body that is bringing in another hazard, says Lt. Tony Spear of the West Springfield Fire Department. That hazard is toxic PFAS, also known as forever chemicals. The bill to protect firefighters from it was enacted by state lawmakers Monday and now its heading to Governor Maura Healeys desk, waiting for approval. Its a job that we risk a lot to do. So to have this taken out would be. thats the one thing that is just big to us, Lt. Spear assured. PFAS exposure is linked to liver and kidney damage, reproductive and developmental harm, and certain cancers. And with the passing of this bill, the fight has only begun to protect the publics health from forever chemicals. And thats by getting rid of PFAS that are in a whole bunch of products and not only in firefighter gear, said Deirdre Cummings, Legislative Director of MASSPIRG. We need to double down and look to our leaders to help continue this fight. The ban on PFAS in Firefighter Personal Protective Equipment would begin January 1, 2027. And new regulations on manufacturers would begin by 2025. Governor Healey now has 10 days to sign the bill. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Birmingham VA Health Care Center to expand care for veterans and military in Huntsville REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. (WHNT) The Birmingham VA Health Care System and Fox Army Health Center announced a strategic sharing agreement to enhance health care services for veterans and military in Huntsville. On August 7, The Birmingham VA Health Care System will host a ribbon cutting on Redstone Arsenal at the Fox Army Health Center. The 2024 Space and Missile Defense Symposium at the Von Braun Center The partnership between Birmingham VA and Fox Army shows the shared commitment to providing high-quality medical care to those who have served the country. Under this agreement, Fox Army Health Center will have access to the Huntsville Veterans Clinics advanced MRI/CT imaging and Ultrasound/Screening Mammography procedures. The Huntsville Clinic will utilize space at Fox Army Health Center to establish a full Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT). This will offer comprehensive primary care services for veterans. The collaboration is expected to expand the VAs capacity to serve nearly 600 additional patients at the Fox Army location. Redstone Arsenal Garrison welcomes first female commander The primary goals of the initiative include: Expanding Access to Care: Veterans and military personnel will benefit from increased access to MRI and CT imaging and Ultrasound and Mammography services at the Huntsville VA, while also receiving primary care from a dedicated PACT team at Fox Army Health Center. Improving Quality of Care: By pooling collective expertise and resources, VA and Fox Army aim to enhance the quality and efficiency of medical care provided to Veterans and military personnel. Streamlining Services: The agreement will facilitate the coordination of patient care, ensuring seamless transitions between facilities and reducing wait times for both imaging and primary care services. The CEO/Executive Director of the Birmingham VA Health Care System Oladipo Ladi Kukoyi said the collaboration is a step forward in providing military personnel the best care. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to provide Veterans and military personnel with the best possible health care. By combining our strengths, we can offer more comprehensive and accessible services to those who have bravely served our nation. This agreement adds an extra layer to the patient experience. The ribbon cutting will be held at 11 a.m. You can learn more about this collaboration on The Redstone Rocket website here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. On Sunday (August 4), a toddler fatally shot himself in the torso with a gun. The tragic incident led his father, Devonte Chambers, to be arrested and booked for negligent homicide that same day according to Baton Rouge Police Department. The child, who was just two years old and named after his father, was immediately transported to a local hospital but was later pronounced dead from his injuries. Chambers said he took his child to the bedroom they shared for a nap. He then told authorities that he put on a movie and fell asleep. Thats when his son had taken a pistol whose magazine was most likely protruding from under the pillow according to police documents and shot himself. The incident occurred around 2 p.m. Chambers was booked into East Baton Rouge Parish Prison. The dad had his gun out and his two-year-old son was playing with his gun and accidentally shot himself, said Lieutenant LJean McNeely of the Baton Rouge Police Department in a statement. Richard Brown, the great-grandfather of the late child, told WVLA that he heard a gunshot Sunday afternoon in the back bedroom of his home while he was cooking in the kitchen. I feel very terrible about this, Brown said. Oh my God my baby had been shot, Lord have mercy. Brown also shared that he doesnt believe his grandson should be charged for the 2-year-olds death. In the state of Louisiana, there is no legal requirement for guns in a home to be secured. Back in March, an eerily similar incident occurred in Baton Rouge when a four-year-old who was playing with a gun was killed. His mother, 22-year-old Arieana Scott, was charged in relation to his death. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. PARIS, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- One person was killed and another seriously wounded in a shooting outside a court in Mulhouse, eastern France, on Tuesday, according to local media. The victims, who were on motorcycles, were shot by one or more individuals from a car near the courthouse, Le Parisien reported. One suspect has been arrested, while two others remain at large, as reported by BFMTV. Initial reports suggest the shooting may be linked to a robbery-related dispute. Bloomberg massive donation to Meharry Medical College is an investment in hope and equity Race matters in medicine. Denying this truth jeopardizes Americans access to care, costing lives and compromising communities. Acknowledging this truth saves lives and betters communities, today and tomorrow. Bloomberg Philanthropies has just acknowledged this truth. With this weeks announcement of a historic $600 million gift to the endowments of the nations five Black medical schools, Bloomberg is investing in hope for millions of Black Americans. While anti-diversity zealots have been lining up to file federal lawsuits pursuing race neutrality, which is a myth, Bloomberg has chosen to recognize the reality of health inequity in the U.S. and has committed to do something about it. Massive gift follows Supreme Court affirmative action policy ruling The $600 million represents the largest gift in the history of Black medical schools and will be apportioned among Meharry Medical College; Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science; Howard University College of Medicine; Morehouse School of Medicine; and HBCU Xavier University, which will soon open a medical school in Louisiana. Meharry students Teresa Belledent and Emmanuel Kotey observe as Dr. Marty Sellers (left), Tennessee Donor Services organ recovery surgeon, removes organs from a donor during organ recovery surgery in 2023. The funds are game-changing for our institutions, equipping us to train future generations of Black doctors and researchers, and transform health care delivery across our nation and around the world. The gift is also perfectly timed, coming one year after the Supreme Courts race-based college admissions ban and as conservative activists now campaign to criminalize corporate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This investment by Bloomberg Philanthropies declares that Black health matters and that Black education matters. For historically Black medical schools, DEI is not about politics. Its about people people who inevitably become patients. Its proven that patients prefer providers who look like them, share their backgrounds and understand their distinct experiences. Youre more likely to come for a routine screening, seek care when you fall ill or accept medical advice if it is being delivered by a doctor you trust to not only understand, but empathize with your concerns. This rapport is especially crucial for the very patients that scores of historically Black medical school graduates will go on to serve in some of the nations most forgotten and avoided corners of our country. For example, the majority of Meharry students pursue medicine to provide better care to the communities they know and love. Many of our graduates will return to practice in rural communities, densely populated urban centers, fly-over towns and shunned cities. Philanthropic donation encourages Black students to go to medical school Consider that historically Black medical schools are training 70% of the Black doctors in the U.S. Now consider that only 5.7% of our nations doctors are Black. This deficit is surely shortening the lives of Black Americans. The Supreme Courts overturning of affirmative action and the hardship this has placed on all universities ensures these disparities will get even worse. Abandoning efforts to close persistent equity gaps will have devastating consequences on real people and real communities, whose individual and collective health challenges are the result of systemic racism. Bloombergs unprecedented gift to historically Black medical schools pushes back against this willful ignorance by empowering more Black students to become Black doctors who can address the challenges born of health injustice. This is the kind of visionary investment our nation needs to resolve complex, deeply entrenched disparities. Others must follow suit without fear of penalty to achieve the level of health equity all Americans deserve. We need commitment and support now more than ever. Discounting race in health care will lead to more human suffering Americans must recognize what is at stake with race neutral health care. By withholding decision-making that factors in race, gender and culture, hospitals and medical schools will be unable to staff and train diverse providersracially or otherwise who understand diverse patients. Stripping away racial identity is a slippery slope. Just as age and BMI are health-affecting factors, systemic racism in America makes patients race central to their care and well-being. Beyond the blatant injustice of race-neutral care, these inequities will lessen care quality and result in a sicker, weaker nation. The toll of discounting the role of race in health care will not be limited to human suffering, loss of life and evaporation of hope. It will cost our country billions in avoidable health care spending, while businesses will face the brunt of a diminishing and suffering workforce. As preposterous as these outcomes may sound, the sad truth is that they are probabilities if we do not intervene. The anti-DEI movement poses a next-level threat to American health care. Policymakers need to follow Bloomberg Philanthropies lead to stay the course and turn the tide toward hope. Otherwise, we are witnessing the beginning of the end of health equity. James Hildreth, president of Meharry Medical College poses for a portrait in his office at the Meharry Medical College S.S. Kresge Learning Center in Nashville, Tenn., Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2018. And the end of health equity will mean unnecessary suffering and death for millions of Americans who deserve better care after generations of receiving worse care. James E.K. Hildreth, Ph.D., M.D., is the president of Meharry Medical College. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Black medical schools earn multimillion-dollar Bloomberg donation 3 people seriously hurt after fishing boat crashes into bridge abutment in Boston Harbor Three men were seriously injured after a commercial fishing boat slammed into a bridge abutment in Boston Harbor on Tuesday morning, prompting a large emergency response, officials said. The boaters were in the water near Moon Island when the vessel they were on crashed in the area of the old Long Island Bridge, which was demolished in 2015, according to Boston EMS Deputy Superintendent Tom Finn. The Boston Police Department Harbor Unit raced Boston EMS paramedics out to the seriously injured men. They were then stabilized and brought back to shore. Finn said the injured men were in stable condition and awake despite suffering serious injuries in the crash. The boaters, whose names havent been released, were taken to a local hospital. Video from the scene showed the bloodied men being loaded into awaiting ambulances at Black Falcon Terminal. The boat in question, a 20-foot center console craft with three attached fishing rods, had to be towed away to Marina Bay in Quincy, according to the United States Coast Guards Northeast Division. #IMAGERY Coast Guard Sector Boston watchstanders received a report from @BostonFire of a boating allision involving a 20ft center console craft w/ 03 people onboard the Southeast side of Long Island. pic.twitter.com/2uWucd9X6K USCGNortheast (@USCGNortheast) August 6, 2024 A Boston 25 News photographer spotted crews assessing heavy damage to the vessels port bow area. It wasnt immediately clear if the men were ejected in the crash or if they were wearing life jackets. The cause of the crash is under investigation. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Body found during search for 5-year-old boy who wandered away from his birthday party A 5-year-old boy who went missing after wandering away from his own birthday party is believed to have been found dead, Idaho police said Tuesday. Matthew Glynn was last seen at home late Monday afternoon while celebrating his fifth birthday with friends and family, Boise police said. Following a massive search, search crews found a body in a canal on Tuesday, Boise police said. The Ada County Coroner's Office will make an official identification, though the victim is believed to be Matthew, police said. MORE: Remains found at wastewater station believed to be missing college student Caleb Harris: Police The body was found in a canal about a half-mile north of where the boy went missing, police said. There appears to be no signs of foul play, police said. "We are heartbroken over this development today," Boise Police Chief Ron Winegar said in a statement. "We want to thank our many partners for their response as well as the public for their willingness to help another member of our community in a time of need." PHOTO: The Boise Police Department released an undated photo of Matthew Glynn. (Courtesy of Boise Police Department) Officers had responded to a report of the missing child shortly before 6 p.m. local time, Winegar said. Matthew, who was nonverbal and had autism, was wearing Batman pajamas when he went missing, Winegar said. Authorities immediately launched a large-scale search involving drones, ATVs, UTVs and tracking dogs that primarily focused on waterways in the area, as Matthew was drawn to water, the police chief said. Police also conducted door-to-door searches to check people's backyards, Winegar said. PHOTO: The Boise Police Department released an undated photo of Matthew Glynn. (Courtesy of Boise Police Department) MORE: Missing pastor found dead in submerged car after a week Ron Christensen with Idaho Mountain Search and Rescue said 30 personnel were also involved in the search Monday night, including mountain bike teams that covered parts of a local greenbelt. The group deployed UTVs with flashing lights and played the song "Wheels on the Bus" through speakers to try to attract Matthew, Christensen said. The Boise Fire Department was also involved in the search. "Sadly, this is not the outcome we were all hoping for. Our hearts go out to Matthew's family, and we extend our deepest condolences during this incredibly difficult time," Boise Fire Chief Mark Niemeyer said in a statement. Body found during search for 5-year-old boy who wandered away from his birthday party originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Body of missing 25-year-old Winterset man found in car submerged in Arkansas lake Joshua Aaron Graham Caskey had been missing since January. Arkansas authorities have found the body of a missing Winterset man inside a car submerged in a lake The Howard County, Arkansas, Sheriffs Office discovered the body of Joshua Aaron Graham Caskey on Sunday after being contacted about a car found in Gillham Lake, a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoir in the southwestern part of the state, Winterset Police said in a news release. Winterset police first reported the 25-year-old Caskey missing in January after they conducted a welfare check and could not locate him or his green 2013 Ford Taurus with Iowa license plate KNZ677. Howard County deputies said the car found in the lake matched the description of Caskeys vehicle, according to the news release, and identified a body they found inside the car as Caskey's. Previously: Search for drowning victim ends with discovery of body in Des Moines River He was last seen driving in Mena, Arkansas on Jan. 19, about 30 minutes from where the car was found, the release said. Authorities said there was no evidence of foul play. Jose Mendiola is a breaking news reporter for the Register. Reach him at jmendiola@dmreg.com. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Discovered in Arkansas lake, car contains body of missing Iowa man Body Recovered Nearly a Month After Tourist Was Swept Away in Avalanche Creek at Glacier National Park Officials believe the body is that of 26-year-old Siddhant Vitthal Patil, who reportedly fell into the creek on July 6 Facebook Siddhant Patil Glacier National Park officials believe they have found the body of a man who fell into Avalanche Creek on July 6. As reported by The Guardian, a visitor to the Montana park spotted a body in the creek on Saturday, Aug. 3. Rangers recovered the body, along with gear and clothing similar to what was described by 26-year-old Siddhant Vitthal Patil's friends and family after he fell into the creek on Saturday, July 6. At the time that Patil fell in, the creek was moving too swiftly to recover his body. According to a July 10 press release from the park, the 26-year-old tourist "was hiking above the gorge on Avalanche Lake Trail" when he left the trail and "while standing on a large rock fell into Avalanche Creek." Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Related: Teen Stepbrothers Found Holding Onto Each Other After Drowning at Popular Swimming Spot, Family Says "It is unclear if he slipped on a wet portion of the rock or lost his balance. Friends and witnesses saw him go into the creek, go underwater, and resurface briefly before being swept up by the current and into the gorge," the release continued. Patil, who was originally from India, was visiting from California where he lived and worked. Per the outlet, the body has been taken to Flathead County Coroners Office to be identified via dental records or DNA. Related: Boy, 11, Dies After Drowning in Lake Erie: Going to Be Hard for the Longest Time The 26-year-old was one of two men who drowned in the park over the July 4 weekend. Raju Jha was swimming in Lake McDonald near Sprague Creek Campground on July 6 when he went under the water. His body was recovered later that day in 35 to 40 ft of water, according to authorities. Jha's friends told the rangers that he was not a "strong swimmer." PEOPLE reached out to Glacier National Park for comment on the two incidents, but they did not immediately respond. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Boeing has delivered its first MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopter to the Air Force which is part of the fleet modernization plan. On Monday, Boeing announced that the first of 13 helicopters has been delivered and will be stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana. The helicopter is part of a Low Rate Initial Production order from 2023 with an additional seven awarded to Boeing in 2024. This aircraft will directly support ongoing U.S. Air Force modernization efforts, said Azeem Khan, MH-139 executive director and program manager. Delivering this asset for the MH-139A fleet is critical to the future of national security as the Grey Wolf will play a crucial role in the U.S. nuclear triad for decades to come. The new helicopter has a 50% increase in speed and range and can carry an additional 5,000 lbs over its predecessor. Boeing said that this new helicopter gives the Air Force more flexibility, reliability, and improved capability while lowering operating costs. The helicopter base is being built by Leonardo, the original equipment manufacturer, in Philadelphia but Boeing handles the military equipment procurement, installation and delivery. DENVER (KDVR) A man is facing charges after allegedly making a bomb threat at the South Transit Center in Fort Collins Tuesday. According to police, the man got off a bus at the transit center and put three bags on the platform, then told a security guard that one of them contained a bomb. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox Security notified police who responded with the Northern Colorado Bomb Squad and closed the transit center and a neighboring building to investigate. According to a release from Fort Collins police, no explosive materials were discovered during the search of the bags. Just before 7 p.m. the transit center reopened for use. The suspect was booked on charges of false report of explosives, a felony, and hindering transportation, a misdemeanor. His identity was not released by Fort Collins police. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. The Borel Fire in a remote part of Kern County has burned over 59,340 acres as of Tuesday and is 75% contained. The fire began July 24 after a vehicle veered off the side of Highway 178 in the canyon and started a fire. The driver of the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the California Highway Patrol. There are currently 1,619 fire personnel from various agencies battling the blaze, said Amanda Munsey, a public information officer for California Interagency Incident Management Team 11, on Tuesday. "The numbers of firefighters will start decreasing as that containment increases and they're really hoping to see that number increase in containment over the next two days," she said. "There is still going to be a lot of work in the area so I can't say when everything is going to be completely reopened." Here's the latest details on the fire: Borel Fire: Evacuation orders remain in effect on Tuesday Evacuations have been ordered for the following areas: KRN-403-C KRN-735-B KRN-736 KRN-737 KRN-738 KRN-739-A KRN-740-B KRN-741-A KRN-747-A KRN-747-B Evacuation orders were lifted on zones KRN-403-A and KRN-403B. Evacuation warnings on zones KRN-750-A, KRN-735-A and KRN-748 were downgraded on Tuesday to normal status making it safe for residents to return, she said. Borel Fire road and public land closures Closed lands, roads, trails, and recreation sites around the Borel Fire include: Long Valley Campground Chimney Creek Campground Portions of the Pacific Crest Trail between Highway 178 at Walker Pass (mile 653) and the South Fork of the Kern River bridge Portions of Caliente Bodfish Road are also closed State Route 178 which was closed from 4.1 miles east of the junction of SR 184 to Democrat Springs status has been reopened but there are traffic delays, she said. Residents under an evacuation warning or order can go to the Tehachapi Education Center at 126 S. Snyder Ave., Tehachapi which is on standby because no residents have used the service. Animal services are available to assist in sheltering companion animals at the center. Contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. A local assistance center An assistance center will open for residents affected by the fire on Aug. 10 to Aug. 13 at the Lake Isabella SeniorCenter, 6401 Lake Isabella Blvd. Lake Isabella. Center hours will be 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Borel Fire: Damage includes historic mining town The historic gold mining town of Havilah, except for a handful of structures, from the northern edge to the Walker Basin is a complete loss, officials say. No estimates have been made of how many other structures have been destroyed since the fire started. There are no reported deaths. Borel Fire weather forecast: Hot, windy conditions this week As the warming trend continues for the week of Aug. 5, firefighters will continue to see hotter and dryer conditions, according to forecasters. This will likely cause flare-ups in the areas within the fire perimeter where brush has been smoldering, the Forest Service reported. Winds are expected to peak at 20-22 mph at the hottest part of the day through the week. A daily smoke outlook is produced for communities affected by wildfire smoke here. James Ward contributed to this story This is a developing story. Wes Woods II covers West County for the Ventura County Star. Reach him at wesley.woodsii@vcstar.com, 805-437-0262 or @JournoWes. This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Borel Fire Tuesday update: Size, location, containment, evacuations A 5-year-old boy was rushed to the hospital after he was severely burned when a boat exploded on an Oklahoma lake. The explosion took place at Bridgeview Marina at Lake Texoma near Madill, Oklahoma, around 2.45 pm Sunday. At least three people were on the boat at the time of the explosion two women, aged 51 and 25, as well as the boy. According to KOCO, a 52-year-old man, Brandon Cox, was also on the boat at the time. Cox and the two women were uninjured but the boy suffered burns to his legs, arms, and face, according to WFAA and KOCO. The boy was taken to Parkland Burn Center in Dallas by helicopter almost 100 miles away. As of Monday evening, he had been released, according to Fox 4. The family is making the trip from Dallas back to their home in Oklahoma City. A five-year-old boy was flown by helicopter to a hospital to be treated for burns after a boat exploded on an Oklahoma lake (Madill Fire Department) The incident happened as they were refueling the boat, the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety said. The boat drifted from the dock and when they went to restart the boat, a spark ignited the gasoline fumes, setting the vessel on fire, officials said. The blast is being investigated by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. Troopers have said that the explosion was caused by equipment failure. Madill Fire Department and Tri-City Fire Department worked diligently to extinguish the fire. We drafted water from the lake and were able to extinguish the fire in a timely manner, the Madill Fire Department stated. Kami Elkins and her children were on Lake Texoma when they saw the black plumes of smoke. We were going to give them our fire extinguishers to help, but then we saw the smoke getting worse, she told Fox 4. The first responders were only minutes away from the scene. We didnt know that a family was previously on the boat, she added. The flames took the boat apart down to the frame. Here I am with my husband and my two kids, and we are sitting out here watching this, Elkins told Fox 4. And theres a family that had to drag their own kid off the boat from getting burned. BEIRUT, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Israeli warplanes broke Tuesday afternoon the sound barrier twice over Beirut, the Lebanese capital, and its suburbs, causing loud booms a few minutes ahead of Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah's speech. The sonic booms shattered glasses in Dahieh, Beirut's southern suburbs, and created fear and anxiety among local residents. Some even started packing to seek shelter in mountainous areas. Nasrallah was set to begin an address at around 5 p.m. local time (1400 GMT) to mark the one week since the killing of the Lebanese armed group's senior military commander, Fouad Shokor, in an Israeli strike in Beirut's southern suburbs. Nasrallah said that the Israeli warplanes might deliberately break the sound barrier during the mourning ceremony to intimidate the people at the memorial. Israeli warplanes have recently intensified their violations of the sound barrier in the airspace of most Lebanese regions, sometimes even resulting in building damage and collapses, Lebanese military sources previously told Xinhua. The sources reported that the sonic booms, caused by warplanes flying faster than sound, occur two or three times a day and are especially terrifying when the planes are flying at a low altitude. Caution prevails in Lebanon following Israel's killing of Shokor and Nasrallah had threatened a definite and painful response at the appropriate time and place. Tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border escalated on Oct. 8, 2023, following a barrage of rockets launched by the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah toward Israel in solidarity with Hamas' attack on Israel the day before. Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon. Boy, 5, Who Wandered Away from Family at Campsite and Got Lost Overnight Is Found Alive: 'Beyond Relieved' The boy had been camping with his family in California, authorities said Madera County Sheriff's Office The 5-year-old boy. A 5-year-old boy has been found after going missing overnight at a California campsite, officials said. The boy was reported missing after wandering off while his family was preparing dinner at the Mammoth Pool Reservoir Campground shortly before 7 p.m. local time on Saturday, Aug. 3, the Madera County Sheriffs Office said in a Facebook post. Authorities carried out a preliminary search of the campsite area in an attempt to locate him, which continued into the night. Early the next morning, diving and mountain rescue teams joined the ongoing search operation. The boy was later found by a camp worker at around 8 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 4, at a road near the campsite. Related: Boy, 5, Was Last Seen 2 Years Ago with Mother's Boyfriend. Police Just Found Him Hidden in a Home The child was spotted by a camp host emerging from brush and onto the road, not far from the camp grounds, MSCO shared on Facebook. He appeared alert and calm, and was taken to the command post to be evaluated by medical personnel and reunited with his family. The boy was later identified as Jack Adams by his father, Brett Adams, and other family members in the comments section of the Facebook post. Thank you so much to all involved, we are beyond relieved, Brett wrote in response to the happy update. Related: Father of Missing Calif. Girl Expressed Gratitude After She Was Found the Next Week. Why Is He Now Charged? I cant say enough good about the response we experienced from The Madera County Sheriffs Department," Kellen Rogers, the boys uncle, added. "That have my most heartfelt thanks. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Following the successful rescue, Madera County Sheriff Tyson Pogue said, We are overjoyed by this truly remarkable outcome. Our gratitude goes out to our fellow law enforcement partners who provided resources and assistance to support rescue efforts. Thank you to everyone who participated in the search, and to the camp host for their vigilance and quick action," he added. "Todays happy ending is one to be celebrated and remembered! For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. CUMBERLAND, R.I. (WPRI) Sen. Jack Reed and Rep. Gabe Amo delivered $850,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Rhode Island Monday for an upcoming renovation project. The money will help pay for a new gym floor, roof repairs and improvements to the clubhouse at the Boys & Girls Club of Cumberland-Lincoln, which serves more than 2,600 youth each year. Every dollar invested in the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Rhode Island makes a meaningful difference in the lives of children and our community, Reed said, adding that the federal earmark will support critical renovations and expansion to ensure no child is turned away because of a lack of space or programming. The Cumberland-Lincoln Clubhouse is a place where all kids are welcome, he continued. Boys & Girls Club of Northern Rhode Island President and CEO Gary Rebelo thanked the lawmakers for their efforts. We look forward to creating an even more vibrant and supportive environment where our members can thrive, Rebelo said. Reed and Amo secured the funding through the fiscal year 2024 appropriations law. The Boys & Girls Club of Northern Rhode Island must complete federal compliance documentation with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development before the funding can be expended. The Boys & Girls Club of Cumberland-Lincoln is special to Gov. Dan McKee, who attended the club as a child and eventually served as its president. His father, James McKee, also helped found the club back in 1956. NEXT: Boys and Girls Clubs of Providence offers summer swim lessons Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now This Week in Good News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) Since Venezuelas disputed presidential election nine days ago, officials from Brazil, Colombia and Mexico have been in constant contact with representatives of both Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez, seeking a solution to the countrys political crisis. The three nations, whose current leftist presidents are Maduro allies, are holding conversations with both sides, a senior Mexican official who has been part of the discussions told The Associated Press. The official declined to characterize that as formal mediation. The three countries are recommending that the government and the opposition follow Venezuelan laws and appear before the appropriate institutions to appeal any part of the process, the official said. That recommendation, however, is a tall ask for the opposition, because Venezuela's ruling party controls every aspect of government, including the justice system, and uses it to defeat and repress real and perceived opponents The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the contacts and declined to identify the Venezuelan government and opposition representatives participating in the discussions. The official also would not say whether Gonzalezs team has signaled its willingness to formally appeal the results of the July 28 election. Unlike many other nations that have either recognized Maduro or Gonzalez as the winner, the governments of Brazil, Colombia and Mexico have taken a more neutral stance by neither rejecting nor applauding when Venezuelas electoral authorities declared Maduro the winner at the ballot box. In a joint statement last week, the three countries called on Venezuelas electoral body to release tens of thousands of vote tally sheets, considered the ultimate proof of results. The fundamental principle of popular sovereignty must be respected through impartial verification of the results, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil, President Gustavo Petro of Colombia and President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador of Mexico said in their statement. The Mexican official told the AP that the three have not ruled out an in-person meeting with Maduro. Millions of Venezuelans headed to the polls on July 28 some even held vigil at their voting center for the highly anticipated election that by all accounts was the toughest electoral challenge Maduro and his ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela had faced in decades. The National Electoral Council then proclaimed Maduro the winner without releasing any detailed figures as it had done in the past. Roughly 12 hours after results were announced, thousands of Venezuelans across the country took to the streets to protest the results and were met with brutal government repression. The electoral council says Maduro had earned 6.4 million votes while Gonzalez, who represented the Unitary Platform opposition coalition, garnered 5.3 million. But Gonzalez and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado stunned Venezuelans when they revealed they had obtained more than 80% of the vote tally sheets issued by every electronic voting machine after polls closed, and asserted that Maduro had been defeated by a 2-to-1 margin. Following the revelations, Maduro asked Venezuelas Supreme Tribunal of Justice to conduct an audit of the presidential election, but his move immediately drew criticism from foreign observers who said the court is too close to the government to produce an independent review. The courts justices are proposed by federal officials and ratified by the National Assembly, which is dominated by Maduro sympathizers. When the tribunal summoned all 10 candidates who appeared on the ballot for a hearing last Friday, only Gonzalez failed to show up. The court on Monday ordered him to appear at another hearing on Wednesday. Machado, in a recorded audio message to Venezuelans on social media on Tuesday said the opposition successfully secured the tally sheets without the regime noticing. She also reminded supporters that their joint effort to unseat Maduro has many phases and does not require people to always be in the streets. There are times to go out, times to meet, and thus demonstrate all our strength and determination and embrace each other, just as there are times to prepare, to organize, to communicate and to consult with our allies around the world, which are many," she said. An operational pause is sometimes necessary to ensure that all the elements of the strategy are aligned and ready for action. Colombian Foreign Affairs Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo on Tuesday told reporters he hopes the three governments will be able to publicly discuss any progress in the conversations with Venezuelan stakeholders either later this week or next week. He added the discussions among officials are not happening under deadline. "Venezuela has its own dynamics and that is what will condition certain times, Murillo said. Meanwhile, two Brazilian officials told the AP that Lula, Petro and Lopez are coordinating closely on this issue. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the discussions. One of the officials on Tuesday summed up the magnitude of the challenge: no leader alone will be enough to handle this crisis. Also on Tuesday, the United States government reiterated its call on Maduro and his representatives to recognize the election results favoring Gonzalez. Mark Wells, acting assistant secretary for western hemisphere affairs, told reporters the administration of President Joe Biden has examined evidence shared by the opposition and has determined that it would be almost impossible to falsify" the tally sheets. The numbers speak for themselves, Wells said. The real result of the election is clear and the world can see it. Edmundo Gonzalez got the majority of the votes. He added that the U.S. government continues to work with other countries to promote transparency and ensure that the peoples votes are counted. He also praised the joint effort by Colombia, Mexico and Brazil but declined to offer any details or say whether the U.S. is currently in talks with Maduro. A day earlier, Venezuelas top prosecutor announced a criminal investigation against Gonzalez and Machado over a statement they issued calling on the armed forces to abandon their support for Maduro and to stop repressing demonstrators. Attorney General Tarek William Saab said that both of them falsely announced a winner of the presidential election other than the one proclaimed by the National Electoral Council, the only body qualified to do so," and that they openly incited police and military officials to disobey the laws. ___ Castillo reported from Mexico City. Associated Press writers Astrid Suarez in Bogota, Colombia, Mauricio Savarese in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and Gisela Salomon in Miami contributed to this report. ___ Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america BEREA, Ohio (WKBN) The Cleveland Browns announced the following roster moves on Tuesday afternoon. The team has signed linebacker Landon Honeycutt and defensive end Marcus Haynes and waived wide receiver Jalen Camp and guard Chim Okorafor. Haynes was originally signed by Denver as an undrafted free agent out of Old Dominion in 2023. He spent part of last season on the Broncos practice squad. Honeycutt is a rookie out of Mars Hill. He participated in the Browns rookie minicamp on a tryout basis. Camp was originally selected by Jacksonville in the sixth round in 2021 out of Georgia Tech. He has appeared in five career games with one start, all with the Houston Texans. Last season, Camp spent time on the Steelers and Panthers practice squads. Okorafor is a product of Benedictine College. He originally signed with Philadelphia as an undrafted free agent in 2023. In addition, he likewise spent time with Minnesota during his rookie season. He also played in the UFL last season with the Michigan Panthers. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. BUCHANAN COUNTY, Va. (WJHL) A man was flown to a hospital with life-threatening injuries Sunday after an alleged stabbing in Buchanan County, and a man has been criminally charged in the incident. According to the Buchanan County Sheriffs Office (BCSO), deputies were called to a fight on Deer Trail Road in Vansant around 3 p.m. on Sunday. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Crime Watch When deputies arrived, they reportedly found a 43-year-old man with wounds consistent with injuries caused by a sharp instrument, a news release from the BCSO states. The victim was flown to a nearby medical center. On Tuesday, the sheriffs office reported that the investigation so far led to the arrest of Whitney Jay Owens, 36, of Vansant. Owens was charged with maliciously stab with intent to maim, disfigure, disable or kill, which the release states is a Class 2 felony. Virginia man accused of making online threats against Vice President Harris & other officials Owens was being held at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority facility in Haysi as of Tuesday. He was arraigned on Monday and is being held on an $8,000 bond. The BCSO is continuing to investigate the alleged assault with assistance from the Virginia State Police and the Buchanan County Commonwealth Attorneys Office. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. BOSTON, Mass. (SHNS)Reentry services, job training programs and rest homes could soon feel the impact of Gov. Maura Healeys budget vetoes that were left intact after a chaotic end to formal lawmaking. The House overturned some of Healeys fiscal 2025 budget vetoes during last weeks formal sessions, but the Senate did not pursue any overrides of her line item reductions. Healey vetoed $317 million across 60 line items in the nearly $58 billion budget. Still a potential path forward for economic development bond bill Lew Finfer, director of Massachusetts Action for Justice, said Monday he was worried about multiple vetoes, including Healey slashing $2.5 million from the Community Empowerment and Reinvestment grant program, which he said support dozens of reentry programs serving formerly incarcerated individuals. That leaves $7.5 million for the line item, which last fiscal year received $15 million. There are a lot of barriers people face, Finfer said, as he spoke about the need to connect people with housing, mental health and drug treatment services after they exit correctional facilities. When their lives get derailed, it may mean they commit some new charge and theyre back in prison, to the detriment of themselves and their families. Thats why reentry programs are really important. Leslie Credle, executive director of the Boston nonprofit Justice 4 Housing that provides services like case management and family reunification for formerly incarcerated Bay Staters, said Healeys veto is not good. A lot of organizations rely on that money for reentry work, and so that means that we dont get to service as many participants as we would like to, Credle said. Healey, in budget documents, said she reduced the grant funding to the amount projected to be necessary due to the availability of alternative trust funding that can be maximized to support similar programming. She also said the Executive Office of Economic Development will work towards utilizing the Workforce Investment Trust Fund to offset the funding being vetoed. But Finfer and the Healey administration said the stalled economic development bill needs to be passed to tap into that fund. Look, our economy is strong, our bond rating is excellent, weve got money in our rainy day fund. But its also our responsibility to make sure that were being fiscally responsible in a time where theres still some uncertainty as to economic conditions. And we would rather be in a position of budgeting accordingly now, rather than facing the specter of having to make cuts later. Better to plan than to have to make cuts later, Healey said about her overarching veto strategy last week. We think these vetoes were vetoes that were well-managed. $317 million, its more than last year. But again, we think weve done so in a way that is responsible and also doesnt do harm to the delivery of service. Healey also cut $10 million across two line items affecting the states supplement to the Supplemental Security Income program for aged and disabled individuals, as well as to the Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children cash assistance program. Ronald Pawelski, president of the Massachusetts Association of Residential Care Homes, said that money was intended to boost reimbursement rates for the commonwealths 75 rest homes, which offer a level of care that falls between assisted living facilities and skilled nursing homes. The majority of rest home residents are receiving some type of public assistance, and a number of them were previously homeless, he said. Pawelski said the Legislature in recent years has supported incremental funding requests, as he cited positive working relationships with the House and Senate budget chiefs. When an official from the Department of Transitional Assistance notified him about the budget vetoes last Monday, Pawelski said that it came as a complete surprise because we were assured, based on multiple meetings, that the amount would be included. We are concerned. Were fearful that this veto could lead to a new round of closures, and we will be working very closely with our members to monitor the impact across the industry, said Pawelski, who noted more than 100 rest homes have closed in Massachusetts since 1998. He added, Were at a loss to understand why rest homes didnt receive $10 million in incremental funding based on the important role that we believe we play on the health care continuum. Healey cut the SSI funding by $6.3 million and the EAEDC funding by $3.7 million to the amount projected to be necessary, she wrote. The veto documents explain for both line items, Based on historical spending and expected demand, this level will support the continuation of current services. A spokesperson for the governor did not directly answer News Service questions Monday about why the administration cut funding for the reentry and EAEDC programs. The FY25 budget signed by Governor Healey makes significant investments that deliver on shared goals to make Massachusetts the best place live, work and grow a business, to drive our state forward with urgency and purpose, and reflects the need for fiscal responsibility, Matt Murphy, spokesperson for the Executive Office for Administration and Finance, said in a statement Monday. Given recent slow growth and uncertainty surrounding our tax revenues, we view the package of vetoes as necessary to keep spending in line with available resources and best position ourselves to end the year in balance. These cuts were largely targeted at areas in our budget where we were able to identify alternative funding sources to maintain services or keep spending in line with the budget recommendations that we made in House 2. Finfer, of Massachusetts Action for Justice, also sounded the alarm about the governors cuts of $750,000 to career technical institutes in vocational-technical schools, $1 million to MassHire Career Centers, and $500,000 to a summer jobs program for at-risk youth. The voc-tech veto could mean institutes that offer evening training opportunities in areas like welding, plumbing and carpentry may need to scale back on the skills they teach, Finfer said. Finfer said the MassHire cut could limit job training and services for unemployed residents, while he said the summer jobs veto would harm a program thats already dealt with major cuts this season. All of the youth have to be from low-income families, so the job helps them most of them contribute wages to help their family income, Finfer said. Healey in budget documents said she reduced funding to the summer jobs line item to the amount projected to be necessary due to the availability of alternative resources, as she invoked the Transitional Escrow Fund. She also pointed to the fund as a resource to offset the voc-tech and MassHire vetoes. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) A Buffalo man was sentenced to an indeterminate sentence of 1 1/3 to four years in prison after he pleaded guilty to various offenses in three separate cases, the Erie County District Attorneys Office announced. Officials said around 7:48 p.m. on Jan. 22, 2024, officers responded to Dupont Avenue for a report of a stolen truck, which was taken from the victims driveway after a key was left inside the vehicle. An officer saw 20-year-old Kahill Reeves enter the stolen vehicle, which was parked in a driveway at a residence on the 1400 block of Sheridan Drive. Reeves then drove the truck in reverse at a high rate of speed, hitting the occupied police patrol vehicle, officials said. According to officials, Reeves then recklessly drove through a front lawn and traveled onto Sheridan Drive in an attempt to evade the police. Reeves, who was driving without a valid drivers license, was later taken into custody by New York State Police. Officials said around 6 p.m. on Dec. 21, 2023, Reeves stole the victims property, which was inside a locker at a gym on Sheridan Drive in the Town of Amherst. Reeves was then found in possession of the victims backpack. Just two hours later, Reeves stole another victims property that was inside a locker at a gym on McKinley Parkway in the Town of Hamburg, officials said. Reeves was then found in possession of the victims credit cards, wallet and keys. In May 2024, Reeves pleaded guilty to the following offenses in the three cases: one count of third-degree grand larceny one count of fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property one count of third-degree unauthorized use of a vehicle one count of petit larceny Latest Local News Katie Skoog joined the News 4 team in April 2024. She is a graduate from the University at Buffalo. You can view more of her work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. A/C broken at Canadian County Jail; Repairs to be made by Thursday A/C broken at Canadian County Jail; Repairs to be made by Thursday EL RENO, Okla. (KFOR) Triple digit temperatures are impacting how inmates are staying cool in the Canadian County Jail. County commissioners confirmed one of the jails air conditioning units is broken. News 4 has received several emails about the issue. County commissioners said repairs should be made later this week. Oklahoma AG Drummond announces opioid abuse settlement distribution I dont even know how many people they have in there but I dont care what they done. Theyre still people, theyre still human beings, said Danny Kincaid, whos concerned for people inside the jail. Canadian county commissioners said the broken unit is from the original equipment from the 1984s jail new construction. The person I know thats in there. Shes been in there like 30 days. From what I understand, its been at least two to three weeks that they have that the A/C hasnt been working, said Kincaid. When repair work started, crews learned they needed extra parts to get the unit working again. The challenge is getting parts for that and making them incorporate together, said Tom Manske, Canadian County Commissioner District 1. According to the Oklahoma Department of Health, jails have to be at least 85 degrees or lower. We have been using water coolers, other air conditioners to open up doors to let the air flow, said Commissioner Manske. 2 arrested, thousands of marijuana plants seized in Pontotoc Co. Commissioner Manske also said the temporary accommodations have dropped temperatures ten degrees and despite the broken A/C unit, theyre compliant with the Department of Health. Our maintenance staff and our sheriffs department take this very seriously. They are working hard to make sure that we dont do anything inhumane or inability for the inmates, said Manske. However, that still has those outside the jail concerned as the weather is supposed to hit triple digits again over the next few days. I just dont want them to go, you know, another two, three weeks or a month, you know, the whole the rest of the summer in there like that, said Manske. County commissioners said the A/C unit should be working again by Thursday. News 4 asked if they have plans to update the unit in the future to avoid it from breaking again and Commissioner Manske said thats being discussed. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. How Caleb Harris Died Can't Be Determined and He Had Decomposed to a Skeleton in Sewer System: Autopsy His family has previously shared their grief while remembering him as a "happy go-lucky person" who "always had a smile on his face" Bee County Sheriff's Office Caleb Harris Authorities have released Caleb Harris' autopsy report but say that his cause of death "cannot be determined with certainty," citing, in part, the fact that he had decomposed to a skeleton by the time he was found in the Corpus Christi, Texas, sewer system. On Tuesday, Aug. 6 five months after the Texas A&M University student, 21, went missing and over a month after his remains were found in a wastewater well near his apartment the Nueces County Medical Examiners Office released its findings about his manner of death. In the autopsy report, which was obtained by PEOPLE, authorities said that at the time his remains were found, they were already in an "advanced state of decomposition and skeletonization." While no significant traumatic injuries are identified, the condition of the remains could have obscured subtle injuries and/or additional significant natural disease, the medical examiners wrote, noting that his toxicology analysis came back negative. The exact details leading up to the terminal event and death are currently unclear, the autopsy states. Hence, the cause and manner of death are classified as undetermined at this time. If additional information becomes available in the future, the cause of and manner of death can be amended, if needed. Related: Caleb Harris' Family Speaks Out as Police Say Human Remains Found in Well 'Most Likely' Belong to the Student Harris was last seen on March 4 near the school's campus in Corpus Christi, by his apartment complex on Ennis Joslin Road. Days later, his family told Fox News that he went outside to pick up an Uber Eats order before 3 a.m. local time when he vanished. The family added that Harris went for a walk with a dog he shared with his roommate, dropped the dog off and disappeared after he left to pick up his order. (Uber previously confirmed to PEOPLE that Harris' order was completed and that the delivery person continued to make deliveries that morning.) Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. On Tuesday, June 25, the Corpus Christi Police Department announced that a Corpus Christi city employee discovered human remains the day before in a 40-foot-deep well, before notifying police around 3:30 p.m. local time. The local Corpus Christi Fire Department then donned hazardous material suits to retrieve the remains from within the well." On July 17, the CCPD revealed on Facebook that analysts with the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification determined the remains "most likely" belonged to the missing student, after comparing DNA samples from the remains with DNA samples taken from his parents. As previously noted, the remains "bore no obvious signs of homicide," per the CCPD. Bee County Sheriff's Office Caleb Harris Although there may always be unanswered questions about Harris' death, police previously shed some light on how he may have ended up in the sewer system to begin with. Deputy Chief Billy Breedlove of the Corpus Christi Police Department previously told PEOPLE that while it's possible that Harris was "harmed and then was put there" although authorities have no evidence of foul play it's also possible that an accidental fall was to blame. In an interview conducted on Thursday, July 18, Breedlove said that around 3:03 a.m. on March 4, Harris sent a Snapchat photo to a friend that showed a small bridge located a few hundred feet away from his apartment complex. About 600 feet from there, investigators found a manhole, Breedlove said, noting that its cover "had been knocked aside." Although he couldn't say for certain how Harris entered the manhole, Breedlove said police do believe that the open manhole was Harris' point of access into the sewer system. Related: Caleb Harris College Will 'Honor His Legacy' With Memorial Ceremony in the Fall: 'Let Us Remember' In a eulogy at his memorial service in July, uncle Jeff Wright remembered Harris as a "happy go-lucky person." He always had a smile on his face. He was very close to his family, talking to his mom and dad daily," Wright continued, noting that Harris "had many passions throughout his life: guitar, music, cooking, cars, biking, fishing, hunting, camping, skateboard, Legos and anything water-related." "With these passions, he wanted his friends and family to experience the joy he got from them," Wright added, noting that Harris spent his final Saturday before he went missing showing his mom all his favorite spots in Corpus Christi. Wright added, Calebs character will live through his family until we see him again in heaven." For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Hezbollah supporters shout slogans during an event commemorating military commander Fouad Shokor one week after his death in Beirut, Lebanon, on Aug. 6, 2024. Hezbollah Leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on Tuesday vowed a strong and impactful retaliation to the assassination of its senior military commander, Fouad Shokor, al-Manar local TV channel reported. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich) BEIRUT, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Hezbollah Leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on Tuesday vowed a strong and impactful retaliation to the assassination of its senior military commander, Fouad Shokor, al-Manar local TV channel reported. "Our retaliation to the assassination of our commander is inevitably coming, and it will be impactful and strong. We may choose to retaliate in cooperation with other resistance powers in Iran and Yemen or separately," Nasrallah said in a televised speech to commemorate Shokor one week after his death. Nasrallah added: "This is a big war, and the blood of our people is too expensive and dear. The assassinations will not pass without retaliation." Nasrallah also threatened to attack factories in northern Israel, each according to Nasrallah, worth billions of U.S. dollars. "All of these are located in northern Israel; it took 34 years to build all these factories, but it takes half an hour to destroy them all," he said. Nasrallah said Israel constitutes a big danger in the region. "This danger cannot be faced with fear and hesitation; all Muslims must assume their responsibilities," he said. Caution prevails in Lebanon and Israel following the latter's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs that killed Shokor and seven civilians. Nasrallah has repeatedly threatened a definite and painful response to the Israeli attack. Tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border escalated on Oct. 8, 2023, following a barrage of rockets launched by the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah toward Israel in solidarity with Hamas' attack on Israel the day before. Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon. Hezbollah supporters hold pictures during an event commemorating military commander Fouad Shokor one week after his death in Beirut, Lebanon, on Aug. 6, 2024. Hezbollah Leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on Tuesday vowed a strong and impactful retaliation to the assassination of its senior military commander, Fouad Shokor, al-Manar local TV channel reported. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich) Hezbollah supporters listen to a televised speech given by Hezbollah Leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah during an event commemorating military commander Fouad Shokor one week after his death in Beirut, Lebanon, on Aug. 6, 2024. Hezbollah Leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on Tuesday vowed a strong and impactful retaliation to the assassination of its senior military commander, Fouad Shokor, al-Manar local TV channel reported. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich) Hezbollah supporters wave flags during an event commemorating military commander Fouad Shokor one week after his death in Beirut, Lebanon, on Aug. 6, 2024. Hezbollah Leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on Tuesday vowed a strong and impactful retaliation to the assassination of its senior military commander, Fouad Shokor, al-Manar local TV channel reported. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich) Calif. Woman Says She Was Removed from Flight Over 'Unpleasant' Medical Condition: 'Humiliating' A woman with neurofibromatosis, which causes tumors to grow, had just undergone surgery when she was removed from a Southwest Airlines flight KTLA 5/YouTube Brianna Solari, a nurse from Sacramento, says she was removed from a Southwest Airlines flight due to her appearance. A woman with a genetic disorder that causes the growth of non-cancerous tumors says she was removed from a flight due to her appearance. Brianna Solari, a nurse from Sacramento, struggles with a genetic condition called neurofibromatosis (NF), which the Mayo Clinic says causes changes in skin pigment and tumors on nerve tissue. It's a rare, incurable illness but surgery is an option for treatment. She had traveled to Los Angeles for specialized surgery, telling KTLA, Im aware of how I look with all of these scabs on me. I know its unpleasant. I suffer from a genetic illness and I got surgery to improve my appearance and improve self-esteem, she told the outlet. Solari says she arrived at the Hollywood Burbank Airport on August 1, and prepared to return home on Southwest Airlines. Once in her seat, she says she covered herself with a headband and a facemask. However, shortly after she was in her seat, she told KTLA that a flight attendant approached her about her appearance. He said there were some concerns about whether or not I had any kind of communicable disease, Solari said. He mentioned chickenpox specifically. Related: Fla. Woman with Rare Genetic Condition Lives with More Than 100 Tumors: 'I'm in Excruciating Pain' (Exclusive) Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. According to regulations listed by the Department of Transportation, "the carrier should not refuse to provide transportation to an individual if provision of a medical certificate or reasonable modifications to practices, policies, or procedures will mitigate the risk of communication of the disease to others to extent that would permit the individual to travel." However, Solari said she offered to show her discharge paperwork from the hospital to Southwest Airlines employees at the gate, but, He said No, we cant see that. Solari wasnt allowed to reboard until her doctor emailed a letter of medical clearance which arrived after her flight departed. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images Stock image of a Southwest Airlines plane. I had to give my phone to the employees. They read the letter [from my doctor] to the [airports] physician, and they said, Oh yeah, she can go, said Solari, who added that it was five hours before she was able to be placed on another flight. Related: Southwest Fined a Record $140 Million for 2022 Holiday Service 'Meltdown' That Stranded 2 Million Travelers It was embarrassing. It was humiliating, she told KTLA. Believe it when people say, 'I had surgery and I shouldnt have to discuss this with airline employees who are not medical professionals.' A spokesperson at Southwest Airlines told PEOPLE, "We are disheartened to learn of the Customers experience flying with us and extend our deepest apologies for the inconvenience. Even though our Team ultimately received clearance for the Customer to travel, we werent able to do so in time for the flights departure. We rebooked her on a later flight, offered a travel voucher for a future flight along with a meal voucher, and were following up with her directly to discuss the situation." For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. A California man stabbed a coyote to death inside his home after he found it attacking his pet chihuahua. The wild canine followed the chihuahua into the mans Simi Valley residence using the doggy door before attacking the small dog just before noon. The dogs owner was taking a shower upstairs when the incident occurred. After hearing a commotion, the owner rushed downstairs to the animals, grabbed a knife and stabbed the coyote. The wounded coyote receded into the downstairs bathroom and the owner continued stabbing it until it died, Fox 11 reported. The owner, whose identity has not been revealed, was transported via ambulance to a local hospital for bite injuries to his hand and right arm, while a neighbor took the pet to the veterinarian for treatment for bites to the head and face. Both the man and dog are expected to make a full recovery. Following the incident, Ventura County Animal Services responded to the home to collect the carcass. A Simi Valley, California man stabbed a coyote to death after it crept inside his home and attacked his dog (AP) Simi Valley Police Senior Officer Casey Nicholson told the VC Star that the mans home backs up to open space and that the incident is a good reminder that wild animals are out there. Sen. Steven Bradford cast blame on his fellow lawmakers Tuesday for Californias struggles to keep energy affordable and reliable, adding to a growing chorus of concerns over the cost of power. We find ourselves here today with these challenges because our legislation has been more aspirational than practical, Bradford, a Democrat, told a group of state energy leaders. Bradford, who chairs the Senates energy and utilities committee, added: Consumers are feeling this and we need to be more practical in what were trying to do. The Los Angeles-area senator made those comments during an oversight hearing on Californias electric grid. But they come as concerns about power bills have grabbed the attention of state leaders. Gov. Gavin Newsom wants to push through a plan to lower those prices before Aug. 31, the end of the states legislative session. Under current law, all of Californias electricity must come from renewable and zero-carbon sources by 2045. On the way there, lawmakers required the state to hit 90% before 2036. The goals are in response to calls for California leaders to take more ambitious action to stem the effects of climate change. But they are causing a delicate balance for state energy officials: How to increase clean energy while also making sure it is reliable and plentiful, especially when faced with more severe weather events. In 2022, around the Labor Day holiday, the state barely avoided rolling blackouts amid a record heatwave. If that type of event were to occur again this summer, Siva Gunda, a member of the California Energy Commission, told lawmakers Californias grid should be able to handle it because of better storage and added capacity. We dont anticipate any shortfalls. Along those lines, Newsoms office said Tuesday that state agencies and utilities were awarded a $600 million federal grant to upgrade electric transmission. Despite recent advancements, Bradford said state energy officials were trying to make the transition with their arms tied behind their back because of policies passed by the Legislature. Bradford, who has reached his term limit, is running to become the states lieutenant governor in 2026. Earlier in the hearing, Sen. Kelly Seyarto, R-Murrieta, said state lawmakers are trying to push an energy transition at 120 mph. The problem, he said, is California is facing a curvy road with a bunch of potholes in it. Those obstacles include uncertain weather events, a smaller budget than expected and people leaving the state due to rising prices. The faster we go through those curves, Seyarto said, the more chances we are going to get that we will run off the road. Firefighters watch as flames and smoke move through a valley in the Forest Ranch area of Butte County as the Park fire continues to burn near Chico, Calif., on July 26. (Josh Edelson / AFP via Getty Images) Californias spring-run Chinook salmon were already in the midst of a population crash before the Park fire exploded into the state's fourth-largest wildfire in history . Biologists now worry the fire could push the fish closer to extinction by scorching forests along creeks that provide critical spawning habitat. The wildfire has been burning through the upper Mill and Deer Creek watersheds, threatening forested canyons that provide some of last intact spawning habitat for spring-run Chinook salmon. This fire entering the upper watershed, where we have sensitive spawning and rearing habitat, is concerning, said Matt Johnson, a senior environmental scientist with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. You have a wildfire that is coming at a very inopportune time for the species and a wildfire that's being driven by a hundred years of fire suppression activities and a warming climate. Read more: With salmon at risk of extinction, California begins urgent rescue effort The two creeks are considered vital strongholds for federally threatened spring-run Chinook salmon, which have suffered long-term declines because of water diversions, dams that have blocked them from reaching spawning grounds, and increasingly severe droughts worsened by climate change. Even before the fire, biologists were so alarmed about a recent crash in the spring-run salmon population that last year they began capturing juvenile fish from Deer Creek to breed them in captivity. The fire is burning near creek areas where adult fish typically spend weeks swimming in deep pools before spawning in the fall. Juvenile fish that hatched last winter also remain in the creeks this time of year and could be at risk, Johnson said. Population surveys along the two tributaries of the Sacramento River have been postponed because of the fire. A man has been charged with arson, accused of starting the fire when he pushed a burning car down a gully in Chico. The suspect denies the accusation s . The suppression of fires in California over the last century has left the forests with a heavy load of fuel. Biologists are concerned that if the fire burns intensely in the watershed, denuded earth and ash could fill the creeks when rains come, seriously harming water quality and potentially killing fish. If we have a really hot fire that cooks the vegetation that holds the soil together, we could have increased sedimentation, debris and ash flow, Johnson said. Read more: California's largest wildfire of the year explodes in size and destroys scores of buildings He said that while less intense flames can be beneficial for the ecosystem, a destructive fire that wipes out big trees would loosen the soil, allowing it to wash into the creeks and harm fish. Severely burned watersheds can also be vulnerable to landslides that come crashing down on creeks. We're still in a holding pattern, watching this fire evolve, Johnson said. We're all quite anxious about the outcome. The creeks are sustained by spring-fed streams and snowmelt from Mt. Lassen and surrounding mountains. The two creeks flow through rocky canyons shaded by pines and Douglas firs, where ferns grow along the banks. The salmon spawn in late September and October in clear, cold stretches of water, laying their eggs in gravel. Johnson has been returning to the area regularly for more than 20 years to carry out surveys, walking for miles on trails to reach the spawning areas. This is some of the most beautiful salmon habitat remaining in the Central Valley, Johnson said. Its going to hurt to see it if its severely damaged. Johnson said he hopes the fire might bring a mix of effects burning intensely in some areas, but leaving other areas less damaged. If the watershed is severely charred, he said, the habitat could be degraded for years or decades to come. For state scientists who have been working to help salmon, the Park fire could upend their long-term strategy. We always had this habitat as a safe bet, Johnson said. But now that quality habitat is under threat. Read more: As salmon populations struggle, California bans fishing on rivers for a second year Spring-run Chinook were listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act in 1999. How bad it is for the fish really depends on the details of how it burns," said Steve Lindley, director of fisheries ecology at NOAA's Southwest Fisheries Science Center. "If it's completely denuding the hillslopes and killing all the vegetation, that's bad. If it burns right down to the water, that's bad, too. That often doesn't happen. The riparian zone around streams often resists burning because it's quite a bit wetter than the upland vegetation." After suffering declines during successive droughts, the reduced populations of spring-run salmon now depend largely on these two creeks, as well as Butte Creek, another tributary of the Sacramento River. If some of the habitats are lost, Lindley said, "there's really not a lot to save them elsewhere because there are so few other populations and they're all relatively small." These populations really suffer during droughts, Lindley said. It's just one thing after another. It's just been piling on to the point where they're really on the verge of extinction. Read more: Sign up for our Boiling Point newsletter Scientists have warned for years that large, destructive wildfires could harm remaining salmon populations. Lindley and other scientists said in a 2007 report that wildfires in the headwaters of Mill and Deer creeks, as well as Butte Creek, pose a significant threat to spring-run Chinook. The fish were once abundant in rivers and streams throughout the Central Valley, but dams have blocked them from reaching many of their habitats in mountain streams. And while the salmon are adapted to survive through Californias natural cycles of fire, their low numbers combined with bigger, more destructive fires now make for a potentially lethal mix. What we have now are these mega wildfires that are intensified by climate change. And we have reduced fish populations because of all these other impacts dams, water extraction, pollution, said Andrew Rypel, a professor of fish ecology and director of UC Davis Center for Watershed Sciences. They've been weakened already by all these other impacts. Rypel said he worries that this fire and others like it might either finish them off or make the situation far worse. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. After over four years of contract negotiations, scientists who work for the state of California may have finally reached the finish line. The California Association of Professional Scientists reached a tentative agreement this month after a yearlong campaign that included marching on the Capitol, joining forces with a powerful national union and a strike last year. The tentative agreement, which CAPS President Jacqueline Tkac described as historic, includes salary increases for all members, paid family leave and longevity pay for scientists who have worked for California for 17 or more years. Weve worked really hard for this over the last couple years and I think its really a testament to our members hard work and our solidarity, Tkac said. This contract provides a lot of wins for us as scientists and, by extension, for science in California. The California Department of Human Resources said in a statement that both parties agreed to return to the bargaining table after the union rejected a final offer by the state in December. CalHR said the department was pleased to have reached a tentative agreement with CAPS-UAW. The personnel department said it was preparing a summary of the deal, including the cost to taxpayers, to present to the Legislature. In order for the contract to be adopted, the union members need to ratify the agreement and both the governor and the Legislature must sign off. For everyone in the bargaining unit, the new contract would guarantee three salary increases beginning retroactively in July 2024. Tkac said those adjustments range between 14% and 23% for scientists at the top of their salary range. For those who have not maxed out their salary range, the cumulative salary adjustment is a 9% increase. For scientists with 17 years or more of experience with the state, the tentative agreement includes a monthly differential that begins at 2% and increases over time to 5.5%. Tkac said this past April was the first time the state returned a proposal to CAPS that included longevity pay a provision state scientists have been requesting for decades. With longevity pay, it not only incentives people to actually make a career of being a state scientist, but also acknowledges how critical the work that those scientists who have been around for 17 plus years are doing, Tkac said. Other items in the agreement include a monthly differential for employees living in six Bay Area counties with a high cost of living, wage replacement benefits through disability insurance and eight weeks of paid family leave. CAPS last contract expired in July 2020. Since then, issues of pay inequity have festered. Tkac said some CAPS members make 40% less than their colleagues who are engineers and represented by a different public sector union. CAPS represents roughly 5,300 state employees who monitor food safety, air and water pollution and other valuable natural resources. Frustrated with ongoing pay disparities within their unit, the unit made history last fall by becoming the first group of state workers to go on strike in California since civil servants won collective bargaining rights in 1977 through the Ralph C. Dills Act. In December, the scientists union rejected the states last, best and final offer, marking just the second time in California a public employee union has rejected such a proposal. Under the Dills Act, Cal HR can choose to impose any or all provisions of the last, best and final offer if the union rejects that proposal. But before the state moved ahead with those provisions, negotiations between the state scientists and CalHR resumed in April, according to a CAPS bargaining update. That same month, three in four CAPS members voted in an election to become an affiliate of the United Auto Workers, a powerful national union that represents more than 600 locals across the country. Of those voting members, 88% voted yes. A call from England and two hectic weeks: Behind the scenes of Mark Kelly's frantic VP run U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly woke up Tuesday not knowing whether he would be Vice President Kamala Harris running mate or remain one of the Democratic nominees prominent surrogates. Harris called Kelly, D-Ariz., before she made public her decision Tuesday morning naming Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her VP pick. It brought a quick, if anticlimactic, ending to an unexpected run in the national spotlight for Kelly. Another call, from England, was perhaps a first step in a hectic two-week sprint for Democrats to complete the overhaul of their presidential ticket. Joel K. Goldstein, a retired constitutional law professor at Saint Louis University who has written two books on the vice presidency, said Harris pick seemed to reflect her desire for a running mate who had elective experience in tough races and could appeal to voters in Midwestern states expected to be critical for the campaign. The fact that Kelly was a finalist, and the only senator in the mix by that point, is a sign of how seriously the Harris camp saw him, Goldstein said. To be in the VP selection process, its an indication that youre thought of as somebody whos ready for the national stage, he said. From his standpoint, while the outcome may be temporarily disappointing, it certainly gives him a louder and enhanced voice within the party and in the nation. Kelly had been a notable backer of President Joe Biden and Harris for weeks after the disastrous June 27 debate that ultimately led Biden to exit the race. Ahead of Bidens decision to abandon his reelection campaign, Democrats pondered the possibility of an open battle for the partys nomination if he did. But when Biden announced he was stepping out of the race on July 21, he quickly threw his support to Harris to be the nominee. Kelly called Harris within hours offering her his support, which was followed by public statements to that effect. At the time, Kelly was in England as part of a congressional delegation that met the United Kingdoms new prime minister, Keir Starmer, and attended the Farnborough International Airshow, an annual aerospace, aviation and military conference. Harris clinched the nomination within a day as potential contenders such as Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer took themselves out of the running. That meant the real race heading into this month's Democratic National Convention in Chicago would be for the vice-presidential slot. By that time, Kellys name was among several Democrats tested in a poll against former President Donald Trump who fared better than Biden did. The poll, conducted by a Democratic-aligned firm trying to help convince Biden to leave the race, also served to jump-start the veepstakes when Biden did. Kelly quickly became part of a roster of possible picks that shifted many times over the roughly two weeks that Harris had to consider them. It was clear early on that it was top-heavy with governors. Kentuckys Gov. Andy Beshear, for example, was another contender, as was North Carolinas Roy Cooper. Both men knew Harris from her days as Californias attorney general because they held similar posts in their states. Kelly, however, never had especially close ties to Harris. He arrived in the Senate in December 2020 after winning the special election to finish the final two years of the term the late U.S. Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., won in 2016. McCain died of brain cancer in 2018. By the time Kelly joined the Senate, Harris was the vice president-elect and was joining the Biden administration. Kelly introduced Harris on Dec. 1, 2021, when she chaired her first meeting of the National Space Council at NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. The council is a low-profile advisory group traditionally headed by the vice president. Harris and Kelly bumped forearms as a greeting at a time when attendees still wore masks because of the pandemic. He praised her and the Biden administration for having a commitment to the issue of space. She praised him for his courage, commitment and patriotism. They appeared to have little direct work together in the intervening years, though Kelly was often a key Democratic vote in contentious matters and Harris, who is nominally the Senate president to break tie votes, has done so at least 33 times. But the upheaval in the Democratic ticket pushed both Harris and Kelly into new roles. Her campaign team considered Kelly throughout the vetting process. Kelly had what amounted to an audition for the role of attack dog during an extended appearance on MSNBCs Morning Joe last week. He discussed conditions on the southern border an area viewed as a key strength for Kelly and he shredded Trump and his vice-presidential pick, Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, who was visiting the Arizona border that day. Like a lot of other Republicans, they dont actually want to solve this problem, Kelly said. They just want to talk about it. Thats why his running mate, JD Vance, is down at the border to take a picture. Thats the only reason hes there. It was the end stage of a process that included endless speculation and took several twists and turns in its relatively compressed duration. Cooper, for example, took himself out of the running. The mayor of Philadelphia released a video on social media reacting to the selection of Shapiro as the vice-presidential pick before Shapiro met Harris on Sunday to discuss the matter. Harris and Kelly met face-to-face Sunday in Washington for about an hour to discuss the possibility of Kelly joining the Democratic ticket. It is believed that Walz and Shapiro were the only others to receive private meetings for the vice-presidential pick. Whatever Harris thought, she didnt tip her hand, though Kelly briefly faced a firestorm of controversy from those who thought he had ruled himself out of the running. Some interpreted a tweet from Kellys personal X account as a sign that he knew he didnt get the job. My background is a bit different than most politicians, the post said. I spent my life serving in the Navy and at NASA, where the mission always comes first. Now, my mission is serving Arizonans. It was the kind of message frequently shared on that account and was part of other messages that included his campaign ads playing up his biography as a Navy combat pilot and astronaut. In the context of a spot on the presidential ticket, it was seen as something else. Jacob Peters, a Kelly spokesperson, tried to play down the social media post with one of his own. An Arizona senator tweeting about being an Arizona senator is not news! Go back to your Sundays everybody! he wrote. But by Tuesday morning, Kelly did acknowledge that he would not be on the ticket. In an email to his supporters Tuesday, Kelly offered quick support for the Harris-Walz ticket. This isnt about me. It never has been, Kelly wrote. Its about the future of our country. Its about whether our kids grow up with fewer rights than the generations before them. Its about whether our economy creates opportunity for everyone, or is rigged for billionaires. Its about whether we strengthen our alliances, or see them shredded. Kelly wont be on the ticket, but he will have his chances to make the case for Harris and Walz. The first opportunity may come Friday when the Democrats visit Phoenix as part of their tour across the swing states this week. Kelly will be there, too. After that, he could be a featured speaker at the Democratic convention. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Two hectic weeks in the campaign's glare: Mark Kelly's frantic VP run WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) For 114 years, Camp Fire has been dedicated to youth education. We have outdoor facilities and activities that we do, we have STEM activities that they can do, but we really foster the creative exploration of a childs mind, executive director Erica Mundt said. Community Healthcare talks child safety: car seats, sports physicals As summer vacation melts away and school is back in session, the youth development program is introducing big changes to its after-school care. Now, Camp Fires reach will extend to 12 local schools instead of nine, providing increased transportation and allowing parents to drop off and pick up their students on any day. In years past, they would just do one day a week, and now were doing at least two for transportation pick up, but this is something new for Camp Fire, Mundt said. We have never opened it up for a parent drop-off whenever they want. According to Mundt, Camp Fires vans will bus students to the center from their schools twice per week instead of once weekly. Its something Mundt says will lessen parents loads. Were really excited about it and were hoping that more parents can see the value in the resources that were offering, Mundt said. This kind of gives more consistency to a schedule for parents. Plus, with its close-knit approach, Mundt said the changes will more effectively serve students. We can actually engage with these kids, and we know whats going to be going on in their lives, and so the consistency is really, really important in empowering the child, she said. So the more that we see them and the more they see us and we interact, the more impact you can have on that one child. And for Camp Fire, striving for that consistency extends even further. The one goal for us this year was the impact for our community, Mundt said. We really want to be more of a consistent resource for our community. WFISD pilots new cellphone policy in two middle schools Registration for after-school care is now open, but before students trade their beach balls in for backpacks, Camp Fire is hosting a pool party fit with hot dogs, snow cones and more. That party will be on Saturday, August 10, at 4 p.m. at the Camp Fire Pool at 2524 Terrace Ave. Admission will be cash only: $5 for adults aged 14 and $3 for children. Registration for the after-school program can be found online and is $30 per child for the whole year. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) Camp High Hopes will soon host its 7th Annual Miles for Smiles Poker Run. The event will take place on Saturday, Aug. 17. Registration starts at 10 a.m., and kickstands go up starting at 11:15 a.m. at Crankshaft Bar & Grill in Moville. Xs hat worn in game by J.D. Scholten headed to Baseball Hall of Fame The poker run is for a good cause: every dollar raised goes towards over 500 kids, teens, and adults with disabilities who attend [Camp High Hopes] annually. Sarah Morgan from Camp High Hopes was in the KCAU 9 studio Monday to talk about this event in more detail. You can view that interview in the video player above. Find out even more about this event by clicking here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. CAMPBELL COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE) Investigators have made an arrest in connection to a man who was found fatally shot in Campbell County last month. Tennessee Bureau of Investigation special agents and the Campbell County Sheriffs Office have been investigating the death of 62-year-old Audie Green, who was found shot inside a vehicle along Highway 25W on July 17. Sevier Animal Care Center in dire straits due to overcrowding Joshua Cox, 33, now faces one count of second-degree murder. He was served the warrant on Monday in the Campbell County Jail, where he was already being held on unrelated charges. According to a TBI release, investigators believe that Cox was a passenger in the vehicle at the time of the shooting. This is a developing story. Download the WATE 6 News app or sign up for our email alerts for updates. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side. CANARSIE, Brooklyn (PIX11) Residents of Canarsie gathered at Canarsie Pier on Sunday to renew their call for ferry service to their neighborhood, emphasizing the need for transit equity. The rally, led by community advocate Jibreel Jalloh, founder and executive director of The Flossy Organization, highlighted the ongoing struggle to address transit inequity in the area. More Local News Jibreel Jalloh stated that the rally is part of a seven-year advocacy campaign to bring ferry service to Canarsie. The community has been pushing for this initiative to alleviate the areas status as a transit desert, where the only available train, the L line, is often under construction, and buses are consistently overcrowded. Jalloh pointed out the congestion on the Belt Parkway as further evidence of the need for improved transit options. Jalloh emphasized that the proposed ferry service is not just a transportation solution but also a potential economic boon for the area. He highlighted the benefits of developing Canarsie Pier, making it a destination where people can enjoy themselves, which would, in turn, boost the local economy. The New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) acknowledged the importance of NYC Ferry as a transit option and welcomed the communitys advocacy. However, they stated that there are currently no plans for expansion. The focus, according to the NYCEDC, is on making the existing service more accessible, equitable, and financially sustainable through Mayor Eric Adams Ferry Forward plan. More Brooklyn News Despite the lack of immediate plans for expansion, Jalloh and The Flossy Organization remain determined to keep the pressure on city officials. They aim to ensure that Canarsie receives the ferry service that has long been promised. Jalloh criticized the citys decision to open multiple ferry stops in transit-rich neighborhoods while neglecting areas like Canarsie that are in dire need of better transit options. Historical records indicate that there was once an active service line from Canarsie to the Rockaways, which underscores the feasibility of the proposed ferry service. The Flossy Organization plans to continue its advocacy efforts, including reaching out to federal-level partners to secure the necessary funding and support for the project. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. Italian church members evacuated from southern Khartoum are seen at a government site in Omdurman city, Sudan, on Aug. 6, 2024. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) on Tuesday announced the evacuation of six Italian church members and 20 South Sudanese nationals who had been stranded in southern Khartoum since the outbreak of war last April. (Sudanese Armed Forces/Handout via Xinhua) KHARTOUM, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) on Tuesday announced the evacuation of six Italian church members and 20 South Sudanese nationals who had been stranded in southern Khartoum since the outbreak of war last April. "The SAF and the General Intelligence Service (GIS) evacuated five nuns of the Italian Catholic Salesians Society, a priest from the Italian Don Bosco Society, and 20 South Sudanese nationals in southern Khartoum," Nabil Abdalla, the SAF's spokesman, said in a statement. The evacuees had been stranded for nearly a year and a half in the Al-Shajara area at Dar Maryam, a complex housing a nursery and elementary school as part of an educational service project. The SAF and GIS had been providing them with medical care, food, and solar energy supplies. In December 2023, the International Committee of the Red Cross tried to evacuate the group, but the operation was unsuccessful because the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) targeted their convoy, according to the SAF statement. It said that the Sudanese authorities received an official request from the Italian church to transfer its parishioners from southern Khartoum. The Sudanese army then successfully moved the group to Omdurman before transporting them to Port Sudan, the capital city of the Red Sea State in eastern Sudan. The Al-Shajara area, which includes a strategic armored corps camp, is still a battlefield of the ongoing military clashes between the SAF and the RSF. Sudan has been witnessing a deadly conflict between the SAF and the RSF since April 15, 2023, resulting in the loss of at least 16,650 lives. An estimated 10.7 million people are now internally displaced in Sudan, with approximately 2.2 million others seeking refuge in neighboring countries, according to most recent UN data. Italian church members and South Sudanese nationals evacuated from southern Khartoum are seen at a government site in Omdurman city, Sudan, on Aug. 6, 2024. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) on Tuesday announced the evacuation of six Italian church members and 20 South Sudanese nationals who had been stranded in southern Khartoum since the outbreak of war last April. (Sudanese Armed Forces/Handout via Xinhua) Italian church members and South Sudanese nationals evacuated from southern Khartoum are seen at a government site in Omdurman city, Sudan, on Aug. 6, 2024. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) on Tuesday announced the evacuation of six Italian church members and 20 South Sudanese nationals who had been stranded in southern Khartoum since the outbreak of war last April. (Sudanese Armed Forces/Handout via Xinhua) Can't pay your rent? That could lock you out of housing forever The U.S. Supreme Courts City of Grants Pass v. Johnson ruling this summer gave states the power to criminalize homeless activity inby removing status protections. Cities now not only have the power to clear out homeless encampments, as Phoenix did to The Zone, but they also can now send people to jail for being unhoused. Phoenixs own urban camping ban will go into effect on Sept. 1. Criminalizing homelessness does nothing to prevent homelessness. Worse, itll add barriers to finding affordable housing. Those at risk of eviction are 1 step from jail Across the country, cities are struggling with an unprecedented housing crisis. The homeless population in Maricopa County has grown from 5,702 in 2016 to 9,026 in 2022, and the percentage of unsheltered homeless people has nearly doubled in that same time, with both statistics likely underreported. While the immediate impact of Grants Pass is the criminalization of homeless activities, the ruling also heightens the stakes for the housing insecure those struggling to afford rent or otherwise only a step away from eviction. Not only are housing insecure individuals one step away from homelessness, but theyre also now one step away from jail. Housing insecurity is rapidly increasing, as housing is unaffordable for half of all U.S. renters. Contributing to housing insecurity is the growing use of property technology, often referred to as PropTech. This includes tools used primarily by landlords to digitally screen tenant applications and automate evictions, as well as platforms that employ algorithms to help landlords coordinate a surge in rental prices. PropTech algorithms will only make this worse While the use of digital tools by landlords isnt the root cause of homelessness, these technologies automate and commodify the rights of landlords over those struggling to retain stable housing. Once homeless, even temporarily, the risk of a person being treated as a criminal escalates. PropTech will likely increase situations where someone shifts from being housing insecure to being homeless via eviction or rent increase. Once homeless, that same person is at risk of suffering from the criminalization of their status, and the cycle continues, as the chronically homeless grow in number. Homeless crisis is getting worse: Because we ignore its causes Criminal charges for being unhoused not only have the immediate risks of fees, jail time and relocation, but they can also become data points that get swept up into a large, opaque digital ecosystem used in part to determine who can access housing. A persons digital profile is becoming increasingly important in significant decisions made about our lives. For example, tenant screening technologies are digital tools already used by 9 out of 10 landlords that assign scores to prospective tenants to help landlords accept or reject housing applications. Algorithmic scoring models are being adopted by lenders to assess who is worthy of receiving a loan. Judges are using algorithmic assessments to determine risk for recidivism and to make decisions about pretrial detention. Decisions could trap people in homelessness All of these determinations weigh heavily on people who are trying to escape cycles of housing instability. These algorithmic systems have been proven to both exacerbate existing systemic biases and often generate reports riddled with misinformation. These technologies also arent required to give people a presumption of innocence. They consider factors such as nonviolent homeless offenses (like urban camping) and misdemeanors from years back as factors for disqualification from housing, loans or employment. Using a persons criminal record in making determinations about their life is not new, but screening and assessment technologies do so in a way that is more difficult to see and more difficult to fight, as they operate under a deceptive veneer of neutrality. In the aftermath of Grants Pass, we should expect the use of PropTech, such as tenant screening systems, to aggregate, automate and amplify our already historically unprecedented affordable housing crisis. Its yet another burden that homeless and housing insecure people might stand to carry. Daniel Glauber and Alec Bacon are students at Arizona State Universitys Sandra Day OConnor College of Law and fellows at Digital Public, a public interest digital governance firm. Reach them at dglauber@asu.edu and alecbacon5@gmail.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Homeless ruling could send you to jail, keep you homeless for life A car with a baby inside was stolen in Utah Monday. How often does that happen? Salt Lake City Police officers stand next to a stolen car parked in front of the Salt Lake County Sheriffs Office in South Salt Lake on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. Kids and Car Safety recommends holding onto your car keys and keeping doors locked while pumping gas, as some carjackers use this time as an opportunity to drive off with someones car. | Salt Lake City Police Department A mom had a terrifying moment in South Salt Lake Monday when her vehicle was stolen with her 8-month-old baby in the back seat. Police say a 29-year-old man made off with the running vehicle but it wasnt long before he noticed the sleeping infant. The babys mother, whod only stepped away momentarily, reported the theft and kidnapping immediately and police began efforts to locate the car, according to reports. Soon after that, alleged thief Dimitri Saliba pulled up to the Salt Lake County Sheriffs office, where he handed the baby, unharmed, to an off-duty police officer and was promptly arrested. Stories like these are shocking, but they dont just happen once in a blue moon. How often do cars get stolen with children inside? Usually, people dont steal cars with the intention of also kidnapping children who might be inside, they just dont notice kids in the backseat until theyve already taken the car, according to the nonprofit Kids and Car Safety. Carjackings are crimes of opportunity. Perpetrators wait for cars that are either left running or with keys inside. They also know that they arent likely to be charged with a serious crime for only stealing a car. Kidnapping, though, is recognized as a felony in all states. Even so, carjackings involving children occur across the country, and rates of incidence have increased in recent years. Between 2012 and 2022, annual incidents rose fairly steadily from 68 to 265, according to data collected by Kids and Car Safety. The sharpest increase happened between 2020, with 80 incidents, to 2022, with 265 incidents. Thats just including children whose stories have been broadcast in the media, Kids and Car Safety director Amber Rollins told WTOP News. We know that its the tip of the iceberg. There are certainly other cases out there that didnt make the news, and it is absolutely terrifying, Rollins said. Do these situations usually have happy endings? Like in Mondays incident in South Salt Lake, children often come out of these experiences physically unharmed. But, not every carjacker does the responsible thing when they notice a child in the backseat. Some of these result in high-speed chases and crashes. Weve had children killed in these cases, Rollins said, per News4Jax. Children who have tried to escape and become tangled in the seat belt and were dragged to death. In August 2023, a carjacker in Florida stole a car with a nearly 2-year-old boy in the back. The perpetrator left the baby, still strapped into his car seat, in the sun on the side of the road. A bystander discovered him and called the police for help, per 7 News Miami. In July 2020, a more violent scene unfolded when a man stole a van running in the parking lot of a California restaurant. Three children and an 18 year-old were in the van, waiting for their parents to pick up food, when the man entered the car and injured two of them and pushed them out of the car, per ABC news. The perpetrator took off with the other two children still inside the car, who were also pushed or jumped from the car. As a result, one died and the other sustained major injuries. What precautions can people take to prevent this from happening? You cant necessarily prevent your car from being stolen, but you can take precautions to protect your children/pets and your car. According to Kids and Car Safety, carjackers tend to scout for opportunities at places like ATMs, gas stations, parking lots and residential areas, where people feel safe leaving their cars running. In these spots and wherever one might leave their car running there are a few measures that will make your car less likely to get stolen. Dont leave your car running. Its the most obvious advice, but theres almost never any reason that would make a car theft worth the rush of leaving your car unattended and running. Dont leave your kids and/or pets unattended in a running car. The surest way to avoid any of the aforementioned carjacking with kids scenarios is to take your kids out of the car. Use drive-thrus and and curbside delivery services to avoid leaving your car unattended, especially if youre in a rush with kids. Kids and Car Safety recommends holding onto your car keys and keeping doors locked while pumping gas, as some carjackers use this time as an opportunity to drive off with someones car. Sumner police and fire crews responded to reports of an explosion in the 15200 block of Elm Street this morning at 4:36 a.m. A car was found to be damaged by an unknown incendiary device, which by definition from the Washington State Legislature, means any material, substance, device, or combination thereof which is capable of supplying the initial ignition and/or fuel for a fire and is designed to be used as an instrument of wilful destruction. According to the city of Sumner, while there are no suspects at this time, they do not fear any threat to the public. Multiple agencies including Sumner PD and East Pierce Fire are continuing to investigate. A spokesperson with the City of Sumner tells us they hope someone from the public might come forward with more information. Anyone with information is asked to call the tip line: 253-299-5678. At 4:36 am, #Sumner PD received reports of an explosion in the 15200 blk of Elm. Police & fire found a car that had been damaged by an unknown incendiary device. No suspects at this time; no indication of an ongoing threat. If you have any info, call the tip line 253-299-5678. pic.twitter.com/80dbNEhCxk Sumner, Washington (@CityOfSumnerWA) August 6, 2024 In case of damages, you pay everything, said the agent at the car-hire pick-up desk, unaware that he was being secretly filmed by a Which? investigator. But, as Which? points out, he wasnt telling the truth; his motivation was to try to sell unnecessary extra insurance at an additional cost of 124 (107). The Consumers Association investigation revealed staff from three different car hire firms using pressure tactics, intended to persuade customers who had already booked their cars to buy additional insurance at the rental desk, even though they already had valid cover. The researchers visited Alicante and Malaga airports, posing as ordinary holidaymakers but secretly filming their interactions with the companies. The investigation revealed a range of tactics, including making statements about the cover offered under the original booking that according to Which? were untrue and/or misleading. Customers were also told that they could be liable for hundreds of euros worth of damage if they did not buy the additional insurance offered by the desk, even though they already had their own cover for this. Which? focused on three companies that it says it already had concerns about, having monitored previous reviews and complaints: Goldcar, Dollar and OK Mobility. In each case, it booked a hire car with basic insurance included. Because that insurance usually includes a hefty excess if you damage the car (typically up to 2,000), Which? also bought a policy from a separate provider to insure against this risk. This is known as excess reimbursement insurance (ERI). Car hire companies often dont like this, because they can make more money by selling you their own, much more expensive, insurance when you pick up the car. And Which? also says that car hire staff are often incentivised to sell this extra insurance for a commission. Responding to Which?'s investigation, Goldcar said it would 'investigate any incidences where a customer believes they have received service that does not match expectations for a low-cost brand' - Wiskerke/Alamy Stock Photo At Alicante Airport, Which?s undercover shopper was told incorrectly that they did not have basic insurance with their booking. Even when the mystery shopper prompted the agent about the insurance they knew to be included, the rental agent doubled down, saying nothing is included. The researcher was also told that any damage would cost a fixed rate of 760 even if it was a tiny scratch; hundreds of euros more than the going rate. When the investigator showed the agent their ERI policy, they were told again the insurance has to be with the car hire company, which was untrue. As the conversation went on, the agent pushed harder, saying Which?s investigator must buy one of the two insurance policies they were offering. The agent did finally relent and say it was their choice whether or not to purchase a policy, but only when the researcher said they had to go away and think about it. In Malaga, a Goldcar agent told the researcher that they had no cover, no protection, nothing in case of damages, you pay everything. Which? says this was untrue, as basic insurance was already included in the rental. And in Alicante, Goldcar staff said that the ERI policy would only cover the other vehicle in case of an accident, not the hire car. When Which?s investigator disputed this, the agent still would not relent. At Dollars Malaga Airport desk, Which?s undercover shopper was told their ERI policy isnt valid and that the thing you bought on the internet is for nothing. They would, said the agent, be liable for up to 2,400 if anything happened to the car, and any scratch bigger than 1cm (0.4in) would cost between 300-400 to fix, plus a 50 admin fee and tax on top. The extra insurance would cost only 162 for the total of the period even though that would have been more than the cost of hiring the car itself (132). When Which?s investigator pointed this out, they were told this is the brokers price that you paid. The real price isnt this price. Upselling insurance is not against the law, but in the UK the Consumer Protection From Unfair Trading Regulations make it illegal to use misleading or aggressive practices when they are likely to lead customers to make a purchase they would not otherwise have made. Which? believes many of its interactions in Spain match this description. Spain has similar consumer protection legislation to the UK, meaning holidaymakers should be free to hire a car without undue pressure from agents. Responding to Which?s report, Goldcar said it is committed to investigating any incidences where a customer believes they have received service that does not match expectations for a low-cost brand. Dollar said that the actions described do not align with our corporate values or policies we regularly take steps to ensure all staff adhere to our standards. OK Mobility told Which? that it recommends taking out coverage directly with our company, as the enterprise that owns the vehicle and therefore the only one capable of directly covering the property, to protect the client from possible extra charges in the event of damage. Sadly, I am not at all surprised by Which?s findings. As I have been pointing out for many years, the way that most car rental pricing is structured is far too complicated and confusing, and leaves too much room for agents at the pick-up desk to pressurise and worry customers into buying unexpected and overpriced extras. Nearly all of us are in a vulnerable position when we pick up a hire car arriving at a foreign airport after a long journey, looking forward to a holiday. We need to be able to rely on trust and transparency, not high-pressure salesmanship. It is long past time that the hire car industry addressed the highly problematic way that it sells its products. To avoid falling into the many traps companies set, see our online guide at telegraph.co.uk/tt-car-hire-mistakes. And please email us at asktheexperts@telegraph.co.uk if you feel you have been subject to high-pressure sales of the kind that Which? has revealed. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Debby, now a tropical rainstorm, is causing dangerous flooding and tornadoes as it makes its way up the Northeast coastal states after making its second U.S. landfall as a tropical storm early on Thursday near Bulls Bay, South Carolina. Friday afternoon, flash flood emergencies were issued as heavy rain on in south-central New York and north-central Pennsylvania caused severe flooding with helicopter rescues. Officials received hundreds of calls for help, including several who needed to be rescued by air from dangerous flooding in northern Pennsylvania's Tioga County. The Cowanesque River at Westfield, Pennslyvania, burst past its record of 11.1 feet in 1996 to rise to 13.5 feet today, according to NOAA. AccuWeather experts say throughout Debby's path from Florida into the Northeast, the storm has caused nearly $30 billion in damage and economic losses. On Thursday, eight tornado reports were associated with Debby, from Siler City, North Carolina, through Virginia, to near Wilmington, Delaware. The tornado in Delaware, near Stanton and Marshallton, was rated EF1 by the National Weather Service and traveled for about a mile with 95 mph winds. NC tornadoes Heavy rain continued to stream north on Friday, after Debby dropped more than 20 inches of rain in Florida and 15 inches in North and South Carolina. Amounts of over 11 inches were reported Friday afternoon near Love, Virginia, and Reisterstown, Maryland. On Wednesday afternoon, the Canoochee River near Claxton, Georgia, a town that received over a foot of rain this week, broke its 100-year record height of 17.80 feet. Several tornadoes were reported Wednesday and Wednesday night in eastern North Carolina. A twister early Thursday morning in Wilson County killed a 60-year-old man, WRAL reported, and a tree fell on a home in Rockingham County, North Carolina, Thursday evening, killing a 78-year-old woman, bringing the death toll to nine. Seven people in Florida died earlier this week in accidents related to Debby. NWS investigators found EF2 tornado damage early Thursday morning in Snow Hill, rural Greene County. Tornadoes also damaged homes in Harrells, a town in Sampson County, and a tornado was recorded on video near Maple Hill in Pender County. Those living in the eastern Carolinas - an area vulnerable to flooding from tropical storms and hurricanes - have been through this before. Debby's flooding is reminding residents of the area's vulnerability to flooding from tropical storms; between 2015 and 2018, three major floods gripped the eastern parts of North and South Carolina. Florence brought torrential rain to North and South Carolina, particularly affecting the Pee Dee River basin in northeastern South Carolina. The storm caused rivers to swell and overflow, leading to extensive flooding that damaged homes, roads and infrastructure. Both North Carolina's and South Carolina's records for highest rainfall totals from a single tropical storm were established during Florence: 23.63 inches at Loris, South Carolina, and 35.93 inches at Elizabethtown, North Carolina. Two years before Florence, Hurricane Matthew dropped 1-2 feet of rain from the Georgia coast to southeastern Virginia. Heavy rainfall led to significant river flooding, which impacted communities and caused extensive damage. Often referred to as a 1,000-year flood, this event was caused by a combination of a stalled low-pressure system and moisture from Hurricane Joaquin. The unprecedented rainfall led to catastrophic flooding across much of the state, particularly in the Midlands and Lowcountry regions. Many areas received more than 20 inches of rain, resulting in dam failures, road closures and widespread property damage. Although South Carolina was spared the worst of Hurricane Dorian in 2019, the storm still brought heavy rain and caused localized flooding, particularly along the coast, where more than a foot of rain fell. Hurricane Floyd in 1999 brought record rainfall, causing rivers to overflow in the Carolinas, resulting in catastrophic flooding. The flooding was compounded by Hurricane Dennis's saturation of the ground just weeks earlier. In 1996, Hurricane Fran's heavy rain caused rivers and streams to overflow their banks, resulting in widespread damage to homes, roads and infrastructure. Cash-strapped councils are cashing in on private rentals with costly licensing schemes amid Labours new war on landlords. In 2023, 47 English councils generated more than 20m from selective licensing schemes, which require that all privately rented properties be licenced by the council. The number of local authorities with licensing requirements increased by 10pc from 2022, with councils including Peterborough, Merton, Charnwood Borough and Birmingham introducing the schemes in the last two years. Councils raised a further 2.5m in fines for landlords who failed to licence their properties, an 80pc increase on 2022, according to research by insurer Direct Line. The cost of a licence can be as high as 1,290, as Leicester City Council charges, but the average across the councils is nearly 700. Birmingham Council, which recently introduced the licensing scheme, is among the councils who declared themselves bankrupt in 2023, issuing a Section 114 notice. Last year, half of councils warned that they faced effective bankruptcy within five years without reform. Since April 2006, councils have been able to require that all privately rented homes in their jurisdiction are licensed, in order to improve standards. Councils can remove the requirements if the quality of rental homes has improved, and seven have done so since 2020, including Hartlepool, Coventry and Sheffield. Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs) can be subject to different licensing requirements, with some councils imposing additional schemes which force landlords to register if there are three or more unrelated tenants living in the same property. Sarah Casey, head of landlord insurance at Direct Line Business Insurance, said: Our analysis shows significant regional variations in landlord licensing costs and a growing burden from fines for non-compliance. She added: Anyone planning on becoming a landlord, or who already has a property portfolio, should check with their local authority to see if they have a scheme in place. An National Residential Landlords Association spokesman said: Too often, costly, poorly targeted licensing schemes have become a tax on good landlords, whilst at the same time failing to deal with those individuals who bring the wider landlord community into disrepute. What we need is more effective, properly focused enforcement which retains the confidence of the vast majority of good landlords, who provide high-quality, much-needed private rented accommodation. It comes as Labour plots a new war on landlords, including French-style hardship tests, effectively banning evictions in cases where renters were found to be worse off, The Telegraph understands. A new Renters Rights Bill was announced in the Kings Speech promising to give greater rights and protections to people renting their homes. Measures are set to include a ban on so-called no-fault evictions, which allow landlords to avoid the courts, is also being pushed forward. Court fees for landlords looking to get rid of problem tenants rose to 391 in May this year. The Government is also reintroducing energy efficiency targets for property investors which will apply to landlords from 2030. The requirements, previously scrapped by Rishi Sunak, require all let properties to have an energy performance certificate (EPC) rating of C, on a scale of A to G. A Local Government Association spokesman said: Landlord licensing schemes can have significant benefits for both landlords and tenants, and particularly in respect of enforcement. Selective licensing schemes will continue to be an important tool for councils to manage and improve properties in the private rented sector in their areas as the proposed reforms in the Renters (Rights) Bill, are brought forward. A ministry of housing, communities and local government spokesman said: Selective licensing is an important tool to tackle issues such as anti-social behaviour and poor conditions. Councils should be transparent about how they have set fees and we expect the money raised to only cover the cost of operation of the schemes. Click here to view this content. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Cattle ranch in near Arthur, Nebraska. (Courtesy of Nebraska Cattlemen) As Nebraskans weve been spoon-fed buzz words such as pro-business economy, strong economic climate and of course the idea of an even better Nebraska for future generations from lawmakers who are championing policies that will inevitably harm our states top economic driver the beef cattle industry. There is no reality where Nebraskas economy can progress and truly thrive while the property tax crisis is breaking ranch families. As a cattleman, landowner and attorney who has spent years helping hundreds of ag families in Nebraska and South Dakota, I have witnessed first-hand the effects of Nebraskas skyrocketing property taxes and ag land valuations in comparison to neighboring states. Property tax statements are more than a slip of paper with rows of numbers that can make your eyes glaze over and leave you saying, not again. Property tax statements can be a death sentence for families whove been working in Nebraskas agriculture industry for decades. They are a direct expense on the most important input in our operation land. Our values of family, tradition and hard work must be upheld by finding commonsense reforms to the property tax problem in Nebraska. Nebraska ranchers have less money to pay expenses, plan for retirement and allow for generational transfer of their operations because of high property taxes. It takes more cattle, fewer employees and therefore more hours and harder work to survive in Nebraska than our neighboring states. The lack of profitability makes it extremely difficult for young people to make the decision to come back to a family operation. Nebraska cattle producers are united in our desire to roll up our sleeves and work collaboratively to find a commonsense solution that provides relief, not just for agriculturalists, but for all taxpayers. There are many components to consider when building a property tax relief plan and reforming the current system of collecting property taxes in Nebraska. Capping the growth of spending by political subdivisions, limiting the property tax rates school districts can levy, broadening the sales tax base while excluding true business inputs and lowering taxable valuations for real property are all sound tax policies that should be included in any plan. If modifications follow these principles, the net result would be a decrease in property taxes paid in the future. All of these ideas have been introduced in the special session. Since the establishment of the Property Tax Credit Fund in 2007, taxpayers received credits to reduce their overall all property tax burden for all political subdivisions. the Legislature increased this fund, commonly referred to as Tier One Credits, over the years and should continue to in the future. New property tax credits were created in recent years after the passage of Legislative Bill 1107, giving income tax credits for property taxes paid to schools. Protecting and growing these credits is essential to sustainable tax relief. Repurposing the LB 1107 current credits only makes sense if there is greater relief provided by law changes than is currently provided under the existing statute. To reduce the burden of property taxes on Nebraskans, K-12 school funding must be reformed as it is the largest driver of property tax growth in Nebraska. While agricultural producers agree that education of our children is important, the cost of that burden should primarily fall to the state, not property taxpayers. To achieve that reform, the following components must be included: Reduce the maximum levy rate for K-12 schools to $0.45 or lower and provide additional state aid to fill any funding gaps. Limit the spending growth of political subdivisions by requiring a vote of the constituents in the districts to exceed restrictions. Reduce the adjusted valuation of agricultural land in the school funding formula to 50% or lower to account for the explosion of ag land valuations over the past 15 years. Grow the tax base, primarily through expansion of the sales tax base, to better balance the funding sources of income, sales and property taxes collected. These modifications would remove the overreliance on property tax to fund schools and would maintain local control by keeping local taxpayers at the table with financial support, ultimately rebalancing the scales between state and local funding. I have watched my clients and friends struggle to make a living in a business where land is an essential input to the goods they sell. Property taxes must be lowered, and the time to act is now. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) A Cedar Point ride thats given parkgoers a splash for more than three decades is closing to make way for something new. The Snake River Falls boat ride will close for good next month, the Ohio amusement park announced. The park teased something new set to take its place. Cedar Points Michigan Bundle provides big discount Snake River Falls will permanently end its operation on Labor Day, September 2, 2024, as we make way for future expansion, Tony Clark, Cedar Point director of communications, shared on the parks website. Whats that expansion? Of course we cant tell you that. Yet. When it first opened in 1993, the 82-foot tall Snake River Falls was the worlds tallest and steepest water flume ride, the park said. The ride offers a second chance to get soaked even after deboarding, as the exit bridge crosses over the flume. Cedar Parks said it will have a special last splash to celebrate the 31-year-old ride. Details are set to come out later. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. Cellphones will soon be banned in all SC public schools. Heres what we know Students returning to classrooms across South Carolina will soon be banned from using their cellphones in public schools because of a proviso included in this years state budget. Under the proviso, the state Board of Education is responsible for working out details of the ban. The board is set to release the official policy on Aug. 13 at its monthly meeting. Ideally, schools will start implementing the policy as soon as September, said Jason Raven, spokesperson for the Department of Education. However, the goal is to have the policy fully implemented statewide by January 2025, Raven said. The ban is a result of discipline and mental health issues tied to cell phone usage, according to a memo from the state Department of Education. Teachers also said they were losing large amounts of instructional time to phone distractions, according to the memo. The Department of Education surveyed around 50,000 teachers last year and got around 10,000 responses that were pretty eye-opening, with 92% of teachers supporting a policy that limits cellphone access, according to Raven. Ultimately, this is the most practical step we can take to refocus student learning, address those discipline issues, hopefully improve mental health outcomes and support our teachers, said Raven. Other states, including Florida and Indiana, have also banned cellphones from classrooms, according to Education Week. Ohio is requiring districts to develop policies, according the publication. The proviso was added to the budget at the request of the Department of Education, according to state Sen. Sean Bennett, chairman of the Senate K-12 education budget subcommittee. Theres just so much data out there now of just mental health issues and discipline problems with kids, and so much of it can be directly dialed right back to cellphone usage, said Bennett, R-Dorchester. The government cant nor should it impose itself necessarily in the family, but we can certainly impose the will within the public school system. Every public school in the state must implement the policy adopted by the State Board of Education in order to receive state funds, according to the proviso. We want the policy to be practical, easy to implement and does not make teachers cellphone police throughout the day, said Raven. Banning cellphone usage used to be up to individual districts, but enforcement was often ineffective, according to Sherry East, president of the South Carolina Education Association. A school district in Summerville is banning cellphone usage at the start of the school year, before the State Board of Education releases its formal policy, according to East. East thinks that Dorchester District 2s policy will be similar to what will be approved by the state Board of Education. That districts cellphone ban is a three-tiered approach . Elementary school students will have to leave their phones in a cubby, middle school students will have to leave their phones in their backpacks, and high schoolers will have to turn in their phones at the start of each class, according to East. The policy in Dorchester District 2 doesnt ban phones from the beginning of the school day to the end, but rather just during class time, according to East. Dorchester District 2 will also have a form for students and parents to sign saying the schools are not liable for any damages to the phones, according to East. Waccamaw Middle School in Georgetown County implemented a cellphone ban in recent years and has seen notable positive changes, according to an article from the Georgetown Times. Report card scores went up and classroom distractions went down, according to the article. When asked if Dorchester District 2s policy will be similar to the one coming from the State Board of Education, Raven said he doesnt want to get ahead of the State Education Board on what exactly the official policy will look like. We are glad to see districts take steps to free students from the distraction and pressure of constantly being on their phones, Raven said. UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- A UN humanitarian official said on Tuesday that life-saving supplies are ready in Sudan's principal port for dispatch to the Zamzam camp in North Darfur, where officials earlier declared famine conditions exist. However, Edem Wosornu, director of operations and advocacy of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), said the shipment, including essential medicines, nutritional supplies, water purification tablets, and soap, awaits the approvals and security assurances needed before it can be transported. During a Security Council briefing on the humanitarian situation in Sudan, she told members that it is crucial that permission is quickly granted for the movement of the supplies from Port Sudan to the camp near the capital of North Darfur State, El Fasher. The council meeting came only days after the Famine Review Committee concluded that famine conditions are present in the Zamzam camp. Assistant Executive Director Stephen Omollo of the World Food Programme (WFP) told members that the agency is significantly scaling up operations across the country and that the WFP will prioritize reaching people facing emergency and catastrophic levels of hunger along with those who have been internally displaced. Both officials said the conflict must stop, and a ceasefire remains the only sustainable solution to prevent the further spread of famine in Sudan. CLOVIS, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) A federal court found Clovis Community District guilty of censoring their college students and violating their First Amendment rights, officials announced on Monday. In 2022, student members of Young Americas Foundation (YAF) posted anti-communist and pro-life flyers on bulletin boards around campus after receiving permission from staff. College administrators say they took down the flyers following complaints about their content. They say they were justified in removing the flyers as they went against their posting policy that prohibited inappropriate or offensive flyers. Through the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), the group sued Clovis Community College. According to the foundation, the court found that Clovis administrators violated students First Amendment rights, ruling that the policy gave them unbounded discretion to censor speech they disliked. We won. We showed the school they were wrong, said Alejandro Flores, a member of YAF. FIRE had our back at every step throughout the process. If you think your speech is being stifled, dont stay quiet, because when you stay quiet, nothing changes. Alejandro Flores, Courtesy of Alvarez Photography Studio Juliette Colunga, Courtesy of Alvarez Photography Studio The college was ordered to pay a total of $330,000, adopt a new speech-protective policy, and create annual First Amendment training sessions for staff. YAF members Alejandro Flores, Juliette Colunga, Daniel Flores, and Clovis Young America Foundation were each paid $20,000 in damages. According to officials, the new policy permanently prohibits the State Center Community College District from banning inappropriate or offensive speech or enforcing any viewpoint-discriminatory, overbroad, or vague policy to censor speech by a student group. This is a victory not only for the rule of law but for everyone who values free speech, said Gov. Scott Walker, president of Young Americas Foundation and former governor of Wisconsin. We hope this sends a clear message to those who are considering violating our students constitutional rights dont, or you could end up in court-ordered First Amendment training like the administrators at Clovis College. In response to the ruling, the State Center Community College District (SCCCD) said they respect the decision of the court. SCCCD is committed to uphold the values of the First Amendment and we look forward to ensuring that all members of our community recognize the virtues and benefits of free speech. State Center Community College District. To read the settlement, click here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47. Illustration by Lia Kantrowitz On Valentines Day 2023, I found myself inside a crisis pregnancy center called Obria Medical Clinics in a Los Angeles suburb, telling the nurse I was pregnant and wanted more information. For decades, I had heard horror stories about clinics like this one, which were known for their religious agenda of convincingeven coercingpregnant, often low-income, women not to have abortions. But my visit to Obria began just like my recent ob-gyn appointment: I took a urine test to confirm my pregnancy; saw a sonographer to view my baby, still a fetus, onscreen; then met with a nurse practitioner. And it was all free. Long staffed by volunteers in mom-and-pop religious operations, many crisis pregnancy centers like Obria have been undergoing a transformation. They have been medicalizing and professionalizinghiring nurses and doctors and providing other services in addition to pregnancy tests and sonograms, such as STD testing and treatment. They say their goal is to better serve women, while the pro-choice movement says its a smokescreen for continuing their antiabortion efforts. Since Im a journalist, and I was pregnant in the spring of 2023 when I got this assignment, I visited one of Obrias three clinics in Los Angeles Countyone of nearly two dozen centers across the U.S. owned by the Obria Groupto see for myself. I also called up Obrias then-CEO, Dawn Hughes. Courtesy of Dawn Hughes, Lisa Renee Photography When I first spoke to Hughes, a former hospital administrator, I was surprised to hear her agree that crisis pregnancy centers had historically been set up to lure people in who were looking for abortions and to change their minds, and further that she didnt approve of that model. Under her watch, she told me, Obria was steadily continuing its transformation into a health care organization that, while still faith-based, would now be transparent with its patients about not offering abortions. Im not one to try to be deceptive or make us something that were not, she said. But just months after our interview, in August 2023, I got an email from Obria announcing a leadership transition. Hughes was gone; shed been replaced by a man with no health care experience. Almost immediately, the language in Obrias emails to its donors shifted to more strident antiabortion rhetoric. Where before the emails sometimes discussed general womens health issues like maternal mortality or lack of affordable health care, now nearly every email was signed: Choosing Life. When I reached Hughes by phone, she said shed been ousted for trying to turn Obria into more of a womens health care organizationas shed been hired to doand basically because I was telling the truth to patients that they did not offer abortions. She also told me they said we dont want to talk about birth controlbut as a health care provider, you have to. Then Hughes began to tell me what her time was like there, accusing Obria of inflating statistics and detailing the tactics it used to manipulate patients. Hughes opposes abortion, yet she confirmed what many in the pro-choice movement had been saying about crisis pregnancy centers for years: They dont want a pregnant woman who is looking for help, she said. Their whole goal is to get you to say: Im going to keep the baby.... They are zealots. Hearst Owned Crisis pregnancy centers, or CPCsalso known as pregnancy resource centers, antiabortion centers, or even fake clinicshave for decades offered women in America free or low-cost pregnancy tests and ultrasounds, but with an underlying agenda: to convince them not to have abortions. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the leading association of ob-gyns in the U.S., says these centers undermine the tenets of informed consent and patient autonomy by using deception, delay tactics and disinformation. Such clinics have outnumbered abortion clinics three-to-one for years, especially across the midwest and south, where CPCs are concentrated. In some states, like Minnesota, that ratio is as high as 11-to-one. As the number of CPCs ticks upward, in the wake of the Supreme Courts decision in the Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization case that took away a womans protected right to an abortion, dozens of abortion clinics have closed (though telehealth and newly opened clinics in other states have helped fill in the gaps). The Obria Group, which began as a single center in 1981, today operates 21 clinics in six states: Georgia, Iowa, Texas, Oregon, Washington, and California, where I visited a clinic. The network gained national media attention in March 2019, when the Trump administration awarded a three-year grant of $5.1 million in Title X government funding to Obria. Considering that the Title X program was created to provide high-quality, affordable family planning, including birth control, to patients, particularly those with low incomes, and that Obria had never offered birth control, the decision outraged reproductive health groups. When it received the funding, Obria founder and then-CEO Kathleen Eaton Bravo said her goal was for Obria to become a nationwide competitor to Planned Parenthood, to spread the pro-life message far and wide. Obrias tax filings similarly described its mission as being to create a unified national brand of pro-life health clinics to more effectively compete with major pro-abortion providers. In 2021, Eaton Bravo told the host of a religious podcast that she closely studied Planned Parenthood to see why it was so effective, and decided it was because of its medical model. They were bringing women in and killing their babies in a medical model. They also do STI testing. Why? she said. To get girls on that slippery slope of drugs, plugs, jellies, and jams. To divert women to her crisis pregnancy centers instead, she explained, we had to create a medical brand that could attract women out of Planned Parenthood and also get them out of the hooking-up mentality. (In another earlier interview, Eaton Bravo argued that Christian Europeans were being replaced by immigrant Muslims because of contraception and abortion.) Eaton Bravo has since retired from the organization. Obria, like other CPC conglomerates, gets some of its funding from conservative private donors and religious groups. In 2013, according to Obrias strategic plan for 20192025, it received at least $2.5 million from the Catholic Campaign for Human Development and $515,000 from the California Community Foundation; both grants were to support its expansion and the development of the first pro-life telemedicine app. But it has repeatedly asked forand securedsignificant public funding as well. Obria ended up distributing its Title X dollars to 14 of its California CPCs before it lost the funding in 2021. Hughes said that Obria told its donors the money dried up because a Democrat who supported the right to an abortion had been elected president, but that that wasnt the full truth. Thomas Barwick - Getty Images A 2021 letter to Obria from the Department of Health & Human Services shows that Obria was in danger of losing its remaining federal funding because HHS had serious concerns about how it had spent the money it received over the first year and a half of its three-year grant. The letter stated that the number of clients actually served was significantly below the number promisedObria saw roughly 3,000 women in 18 months, instead of a projected 12,000 per year. Additionally, the geographic area it operated in was smaller than estimated, and the percentage of low-income clients was lower than anticipated. It also wasnt clear what actual contraceptive services were provided, if any, and Obria fell short of meeting the requirement to partner with federally funded health care centers that do offer the full range of family planning services, including contraceptives. Despite substantially reducing the anticipated number of clients it would serve in the third year of the grant, Obria had asked the federal government for even more funding that year: nearly $2 million. Reflecting on her time at Obria, Hughes said she is blowing the whistle on the organization because she no longer believes its efforts to medicalize were sincere. Instead, she told me, the movement tried to come up with something to make themselves more legitimate, other than We want to save babies from abortion, and found a way to get federal moniesthe same funding Planned Parenthood and other legitimate clinics have long relied on to provide womens health care and access to contraceptionand then did not know how to use it. In addition to the Title X funds, the Obria Group received over $578 million between 2020 and 2021 from President Trumps COVID-19-related Paycheck Protection Program. Obria has also gotten funding from conservative states such as Texas, where it operates multiple centers, and where it benefited from a state program formerly called Alternatives to Abortion (now renamed Thriving Texas Families), which funds many CPCs statewide. In 2023, at least 19 states funded CPCs like Obria, commonly through Choose Life license plate programs, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights research group. In fiscal year 2022, crisis pregnancy centers received a total of $344 million in state and federal funds, according to an analysis of tax documents by the pro-choice group Health and Freedom Watch that was shared with the Guardian. Equity Forward, a progressive watchdog group, also found that from 1995 to 2024, more than $1 billion dollars in state tax dollars went to crisis pregnancy centers. Hughes said she was disturbed by the lack of transparency as they received that money. Theyre misrepresenting themselves as medical clinics, but they really are not medical clinics, she said. If they would just say what they are, it would be so much nicer for patients. Robert Nickelsberg - Getty Images For decades, frightening tales have come out of CPCs. One reproductive rights advocate told me that she became an activist after visiting a crisis pregnancy center in Texas while pregnant 10 years ago. She said she was shown a creepy video of a man in a lab coat cutting up a baby limb by limb, warned she would get breast cancer or become infertile if she got an abortion, and told the abortion pill was illegal in Texas at the timeall of which was untrue. But in the years since her visit, and in a post-Roe America, many CPCs have transformed their strategy. Theyve rebranded themselves with stylish websites geared toward millennial women, just as theyve presented themselves as medical. The website for a CPC in Ohio, for example, speaks of its empowering and comprehensive care for women (despite not providing any abortion or contraception services), much of which is written in lowercase with punctuation marks that look like a mash-up of sparkles and a cross. Bella Health + Wellness, a CPC in Colorado, bills itself as a life-affirming medical clinic that exists to make people whole, and its website recently included stock photos of laughing young women alongside text that says theyre in constant awe of what a womans body can do. The language on the website for Obria brags of its Whole Care for the Whole You by board-certified physicians and registered nurses at its 21 medical clinics. In 2018, some CPCs formed a new trade association called the Pro Womens Healthcare Centers in Fairfax, Virginia, designed to be a consortium that adheres to a set of standards and values. Yet at a launch event during that years March for Life, an annual antiabortion rally in Washington, D.C., consortium members muddied the line between the religious and the medical. Dede Chism, a consortium member who co-founded Bella Health + Wellness in Colorado, for example, described the origin of her clinic this way: For us, the Holy Spirit just came upon my daughter and I while we were in the high Andes of Peru finishing a medical mission, and the Lord said we must bring this care back home. Neither Chism nor the consortium responded to a request for an interview. Among the consortiums other listed clinics are the Guiding Star in Tampa Bay, Florida, which boasts of providing a new norm in holistic womens healthcare; Tepeyac OB/GYN in Fairfax, Virginia, which claims to offer comprehensive OB/GYN services yet doesnt offer contraceptives; and the Aid to Women Center, with multiple locations in Arizona, which lists Abortion under its pregnancy options menu but actually only provides abortion counseling. Despite the claims, again, none of these centers provide abortion or contraceptive services to women. (The consortium currently appears to have disbanded, but the clinics remain open.) Hearst Owned A 2021 report called Designed to Deceive by The Alliance, a coalition of state advocates from law and policy centers for womens rights and gender equality, found that CPCs that were calling themselves medical clinics made claims that did not stack up. The report, which reviewed 607 centers in nine states, found that fewer than half of the clinics were clear about whether they actually had a licensed medical professional on staff; only 16.3 percent indicated having a staff physician; and none were clear about whether their medical professionals were employees or volunteers, or part- or full-time. The report also indicated some physicians working with CPCs are licensed in fields unrelated to reproductive health, including optometrists and chiropractors. Among centers that said they had medicalized, the three most common services on offer were not actually medical: urine pregnancy tests one could easily get at a pharmacy, free maternal or baby supplies, and counseling. The report also found that the ultrasounds many of these clinics offer are frequently non-diagnostic and obtained by untrained, unlicensed staff and that many CPCs still disguised the fact that they do not provide or refer for abortion. Many also operated near abortion clinics such as Planned Parenthood, presumably to confuse and redirect patients. When I visited the Obria clinic in a Los Angeles suburbjust blocks from a Planned Parenthoodit was when Hughes was still in charge. I was 15 weeks pregnant, and my visit began normally enough, with the urine test for pregnancy confirmation and a sonogram. As Hughes had promised, the sonographer was honest with me, when I asked, that Obria did not provide abortions, which seemed like an improvement over what Id read about the CPCs of years past. Hearst Owned But when I spoke with a nurse practitioner, things got stranger. She asked me where I was at with everything, to which I replied that Id been stressed and nauseous throughout my first trimester, but was planning to parent. She said that Obria could provide me with spiritual, emotional, and mental support for my pregnancy. But she added that if I was looking at termination at this point, it would have to be surgical, not by pill. In a brusque voice, she added that a doctor would have to pull out the fetus piece by piece. While its true I was past the 11-week limit on medication abortions, at 15 weeks, I could still have had an aspiration abortion, and generally the fetus isnt large enough by then to come out in pieces, according to a senior program manager for abortion services at a Planned Parenthood I spoke with. It took me a while to process the unsolicited, graphic, and nonmedical description of an abortion shed given me. By this time, she had spent another 10 minutes giving me more standard pregnancy advice, leaving me wondering if shed really given that description of abortion. At the end of the call, her voice suddenly became kind again in a way that felt inauthentic: I want you to come back, she said. I dont want you to walk out feeling overwhelmed and like you dont know what to do. In making the move to go medical, reproductive rights groups say, CPCs may be less likely to use deception or aggressive scare tactics, as they did in the past. In my experiences there, the visits are sometimes more subtly coercive. State regulators say the shift toward not-always-brazen violations actually makes it harder for women to recognize these centers as having an antiabortion agendaand harder for their offices to regulate. In June 2022, California Attorney General Rob Bontas office issued a consumer warning against CPCs, warning that at first glance, crisis pregnancy centers may look like an abortion care clinic or reproductive health clinics. As Hughes explained it, Obria has been very good at skirting rules by getting close to the line. Bonta told me that his office can only step in when a clear line is crossed. Ambiguity, confusion, being unsurethats not the experience that we, at the California Department of Justice, want for everyday people, patients, women, Bonta said. There should be clarity; there should be knowledge about what offerings are provided by the clinic you are walking into. In September 2023, Bontas office announced it had filed a lawsuit against RealOptions, an affiliate of Obria Inc. (which, according to the complaint, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that operates five clinics operating under the name RealOptions Obria Medical Clinics, but not the clinic that I visited), along with Heartbeat International, another antiabortion group, to stop them from using misleading claims to advertise abortion pill reversals. Both defendants have sought to dismiss the complaint; in late June, the court ruled against their attempts to do so. In recently filed answers to the complaints following the ruling, both defendants continue to deny the allegations and that they are deliberately providing false or misleading information about the abortion pill reversal procedure. The procedure, which has been denounced by the ACOG as unproven and not based on science, involves prescribing a high dose of progesterone to a pregnant woman who has already taken the first of two pills in a medication abortion, in an effort to stop the abortion process. At Obrias annual gala in 2023, George Delgado, the self-described founder of the abortion pill reversal, was the keynote speaker. He told the audience that when pregnant mothers use it, the one that was going to be the killer now becomes the savior. The abortion pill reversal has become a top priority for many CPCs-turned-clinics. Anadolu - Getty Images When I got home from my visit to Obria, I opened up a packet the staff had given me, which contained a list of places for new mothers to get aid, a pocket New Testament, and some pamphlets from Focus on the Family, an evangelical Christian group. Witness this miracle in the making, one pamphlet read, followed by week-by-week updates on the development of the fetus. I was again struck by the conflation of the religious with the medical. When I reached Focus on the Family, a spokeswoman told me the group did not just provide pamphlets to Obria; they were also directly involved in helping Obria medicalize. She said theyd provided funding to Obria clinics for new, top-line ultrasound machines, medical training, and, less directly, digital marketing, though they did not disclose how much. A few weeks later, I visited Obria once more for another prenatal checkup, though by this point it was clear that if they were checking up on anything, it was that I wasnt going to get an abortion. The nurse practitioner had asked me to come back, and this time I requested to visit their Compton clinic in Los Angeles County. According to a 2021 announcement posted on Obrias website, the network opened a center in Compton after a pastor told Obria that unplanned pregnancies were on the rise there due to the release of county inmates who were sexual predatorstargeting young women after they got out of jail. We will be moving right into the heart of the evil one, rescuing innocents from abortion and offering help and care to young women, according to the announcement on Obrias website. We know we are entering into the enemys territory, and he wont like it! The Compton center in Los Angeles County, which advertised as a fully-licensed medical community care clinic and womens health center, is located in a trailer beside a Pentecostal church, with a sign out front that read Every Life Counts. Inside, I was again given a sonogram, during which they played my babys heartbeat. Then they sent me to meet a provider, who asked me twice if I planned to keep my baby. Both times, I told her yes, but she didnt seem to believe me. A third time, she asked: After youve heard your babys heartbeat, what do you plan to do? Courtesy of Elizabeth Flock This time, I must have said yes more convincingly, because a broad smile broke across her face. Congratulations! she said, then led me out past a roomful of gifts, including rows of diapers and baby clothing, like a game show contestant who has won a prize. She said the clinic was giving me a few things because you decided to keep the baby, and then introduced me to another woman, who handed me a plastic bag containing diapers and wipes. The woman told me the clinic would be in touch with support, and then sent me on my way. I never heard from Obria again. As a journalist, I knew from the time I walked into Obria that they were approaching me from an antiabortion perspective, if not with an outright agenda. But Hughes said other women who visited Obria didnt have the same knowledge. Several times during her tenure, she said, the Texas antiabortion group Human Coalition, which maintains its own CPC network, sent women to an Obria clinic who thought they could get an abortion there, only to learn upon arrival that they could not. (The Human Coalition did not respond to a request for an interview.) Hughes position was that Obria should give women information about their options and leave it at that. You dont want people coming in who want an abortion and then you say nothey lose their mind, she said. The psyche of a person who is deciding to terminate a pregnancy, Hughes added, is just not something you should be playing with. Getty Images In Obrias email from last August announcing Hughes replacement, the board wrote that a transition was needed to better fulfill our mission. The email also urged supporters to continue to be a valuable partner during this time, as the demand for our services continues to rise with the reversal of Roe v. Wade. With Roe overturned and with many states increasingly hostile to abortion access, clinics like Obria, Bella, and other CPCs-turned-clinics across the country are able to access a host of new government funding that moves them closer to their goal of rivaling Planned Parenthood. Since the Dobbs Supreme Court decision, 19 states have allocated roughly $250 million in taxpayer money to CPCs. In April 2023, Texas voted to increase funding by $80 million for CPCs, while at the same time Tennessee allotted $20 million to such clinics in its budget. Should Republicans retake Congress and the presidency in 2024, these clinics may see a gold rush of federal funding as well. In the wake of Hughes departure, at least one CPC that Obria had helped transition to a medical clinic closed and became a CPC again. The Texas clinic briefly offered prenatal care, well-women exams, and STD testing before ending those services, citing a dearth of reimbursements from insurance as the reason, after less than six months in operation. Hearst Owned In Obrias Easter email sent last spring, the new CEO, Henry W. Taylora man with a fundraising background and no health care experiencesent out a photo to supporters of a baby wearing bunny ears and holding a carrot, and wrote: Thank you for choosing life and standing with us as we speak love and life to everyone that walks into our clinics. The email contained a link to donate, which boasted that between January and September of 2023, 1,452 babies had been saved by its clinics, though Hughes said Obria regularly inflated those numbers, since they didnt follow a woman until birth. When interviewed by video call, Taylor said that saved meant that a pregnancy was taken to term and the baby was born. Taylor also shared his plan for Obrias future: sex education programs for children and adults, more support to fathersparticularly African-American fathers, he saidin helping women choose to give birth, and opening more Obria clinics in states across the U.S. He recently hired all new senior staff, including a marketing person who would build nationwide brand awareness of Obria. With his background in fundraising, Obria would continue to look at every source of funding, he said. The vision that I certainly embrace is growing that national network to an even larger footprint. In response to questions about CPCs history of deceptive practices, Taylor argued that it was unfair to lump in Obria with others, and said that after recently visiting nearly all of Obrias 21 clinics, he saw only substantive and high-quality care. He said that, with the help of a medical advisory board, Obria would continue to medicalize, and that some of their clinics are already offering women not only ultrasounds, pregnancy tests, and STD testing, but also Pap smears, and screening for cervical cancer and gestational diabetes. As always, Obria will not provide birth control, abortions, or abortion referrals, he said. On its current website, small print cautions that Obria Medical Clinics do not perform nor refer for abortions. But, Taylor said, Even when a woman chooses to have an abortion, we are still there to support her after that. We do that because of our Christian faith, not in spite of it. As for Hughes, she moved on to a medical center outside of Californiawhere she says she can help women without being surrounded by zealots. She remains opposed to abortion, but she has a message for pro-life medical clinics: My strong feeling is that if a woman is on the fence, and there are things you can help them with, thats great, she said. But if someone is completely determined to [get an abortion]you dont spend an hour browbeating her. You give her the information and let her go make her own decision. You Might Also Like Chad's military was responsible for deaths of detainees after protests in 2022, a rights group says NDJAMENA, Chad (AP) Chad's military was responsible for the deaths of several detainees arrested following protests in October 2022, Human Rights Watch said Tuesday. At least four people died en route to Koro Toro prison and six others died there, and it was not clear where another man died, the group said in its report, adding that the real toll was likely much higher. At the time, security forces in the central African nation fired live ammunition, killing at least 60 people during demonstrations against interim leader Mahamat Deby Itnos two-year extension of power. The unrest was unprecedented in Chad, which saw little public dissent during the regime of Deby Itnos father, who ruled for more than three decades until his assassination in 2021. Hundreds were detained and taken to Koro Toro, about 600 kilometers (around 370 miles) from N'djamena, the capital. Human Rights Watch called on Chadian authorities, the African Union and United Nations bodies to investigate what it called unlawful detentions, ill treatment at the prison, and deaths in custody. The Chadian government must act decisively to address the impunity for these abuses, said Lewis Mudge, central Africa director at Human Rights Watch, in a statement. Detainees were unlawfully detained, mistreated and denied basic supplies during the two- to three-day transit to the prison, the report said. Some died along the way. The bodies of those who died were thrown out of the trucks, said a former detainee, whose name was not released, quoted in the report. Koro Toro prison operates with military oversight. According to the report, its day-to-day administration was delegated to prisoners having links to the militant group Boko Haram, who punished and beat other detainees. At least hundreds were chained up with iron rods attached to their ankles for up to several weeks, the report said. Some detainees were subjected to prolonged solitary confinement a form of torture and forced labor. Chadian military officials oversee a prison in which abuse runs rampant, Mudge said. Human Rights Watch called for one of the main buildings at Koro Toro to be closed, describing it as unfit for use. The group also urged that the remains of those who died be returned to their families for burial. The Chadian government maintains that the 2022 protests amounted to an insurrection and that, given the seriousness, detention at Koro Toro was not extreme. In a July 2023 letter to Human Rights Watch, Chads justice minister said there was no evidence relating to the violation of human rights related to (the) transfer or detention in Koro-Toro prison. Larry Ahmat Haroun, a Chadian activist who was jailed after the elections and freed in June, told The Associated Press that Koro Toro is one of the most dangerous prisons in Chad. Ive seen prisoners who were wounded by bullets left without any care or treatment. People get tortured too," he said, adding that there is no access to phones or visits. Chad is a part of an African region rocked in recent years by military coups. The current president, Deby Itno, was elected May 6 in a long-delayed vote marred by allegations of the elimination of political opponents, which authorities have denied. ___ Follow APs Africa coverage at: https://apnews.com/hub/africa STEVENS POINT A judge has dismissed charges filed against three of five defendants in connection with a standoff July 25 and 26 in Amherst. The Portage County District Attorney's Office filed motions Friday to dismiss the charges against Thomas J. Decarlo, 20, of Ashland; Brodee T. Voelker, 30, of Gurnee, Illinois; and Brandon J. Laux, 34, of Plover. Portage County Circuit Judge Michael Zell dismissed the charges against the three men after the motions were filed Friday, according to online records. Edward J. Deyo, 61, of Amherst, and Chrissy A. Miller, 43, of Amherst, are still charged with being a party to the crime of harboring a felon. Deyo has a preliminary hearing scheduled for Aug. 19 and Miller, who currently is free on a $20,000 cash bail, is scheduled to make an initial appearance Thursday. Deyo remains in jail pending a $75,000 cash bail. According to the criminal complaints, on July 23, Jeffrey Miller, 32, was involved in a high-speed chase on State 113 outside of Baraboo. The chase ended when Jeffrey Miller crashed his vehicle. When deputies approached the vehicle, Jeffrey Miler opened fire on deputies with a rifle. One deputy was hurt in the shooting. Jeffrey Miller fled the scene. Investigators were able to trace one of Jeffrey Miller's social media accounts to a home at 450 Mill St. in the village of Amherst. They checked the address and learned the home belonged to Deyo, who lives there with Chrissy Miller, according to the complaint. More local news: CREATE Portage County names Kristin Hubbard Dostal as new executive director Readers share their favorites: What are the best food trucks in the Stevens Point area? A witness reported to police seeing Jeffrey Miller and another man in a black BMW at a BP station in Coloma. Investigators checked video from the gas station and were able to identify the man with Jeffrey Miller as Deyo. Law enforcement officers got a "no knock warrant" for the home and, on the evening of July 25, multiple agencies got together to serve the warrant, according to the complaint. The officers encircled the house and approached it using an armored vehicle, according to the complaint. They gave orders for the people to leave the house and five people, including Chrissy Miller and Deyo, came out. Miller barricaded himself inside the house, according to the complaint. Police entered the house on July 26 and found Jeffrey Miller's body with a firearm lying nearby. Officers never shot at Miller in the home, according to a release from the Wisconsin Department of Justice. Contact Karen Madden at 715-345-2245 or kmadden@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @KMadden715, Instagram @kmadden715 or Facebook at www.facebook.com/karen.madden.33. This article originally appeared on Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune: Charges dropped for 3 of 5 defendants connected with Amherst standoff NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) The Charleston County Sheriffs Office arrested a woman after she surrendered herself on several charges related to child sex crimes. Janice Rauton Gamble, 60, of Charleston, is charged with one count of Committing or Attempting a Lewd Act Upon a Child Under Sixteen and three counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct with a Minor. Deputies arrested her on Monday after she surrendered herself in the presence of her attorney at the Sheriffs Office. Upon her arrest, she was taken to the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center and served her warrants. During a hearing on Monday, Gamble was given a $55,000 bond. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Thousands of passengers across the country remain stranded as airlines cancel and continue to delay flights due to impacts from Tropical Storm Debby. Among those passengers includes a Charlotte couple who began stranded in Boston while celebrating their first anniversary. Alexa Combs and her husband Cory Meigs said the change is a logistic nightmare. Tuesday Outlook: Flood risks as rain from Debby moves in across the Carolinas A little bit of frustration just because this is out of our control and somewhat out of the airlines control, Combs explained over FaceTime Monday as they sat outside the airport in Boston. We didnt bring our work laptops so were trying to deal and work schedules, she explained. The couple visited Boston last week before the full path of the storm was mapped out in the Caribbean. However, when Hurricane Debby made landfall in Florida on Sunday it caused the couples flight home to be delayed twice, before it was ultimately canceled. This is a nightmare with logistics, but we got an extra day in Boston, Combs said. There are worse ways to spend an anniversary. The couple was denied a hotel voucher and were on the verge of spending more than $1,600 on Monday flights before they found any early morning flight for Tuesday. Hopefully we can get in before the storms hit and just be done with this nightmare, Meigs. As they fight to get back to Charlotte, others fight to leave. Monday evening, more than 300 flights had been delayed out of Charlotte, while more than 160 were canceled outright. This comes just weeks after a worldwide software outage led to similar headaches at CLT and across the country. Passengers were seen sleeping in the airport, or fighting to find a last-minute flight. Many passengers expressed frustration due to being told it would be Friday before they could get a flight. One woman said her son-in-law drove from Daytona Beach, Florida, to pick her up. Tropical Storm Debby hits Florida with floods, threat of record rain in Georgia and the Carolinas The trickle-down effect of the delays had also impacted baggage claim. Dozens of passengers waiting in long lines next to Queen Charlottes Kitchen to pick up luggage from a pile of pieces. Some passengers, however, were not so lucky. Christine Chisholm landed in Charlotte Monday several hours after her luggage did. She said that though it had been checked in, it was nowhere in the airport. Its so disorganized, its crazy because Im not the only one who lost my bag, she explained. While she did not know if it was misplaced or stolen, she said she planned to file a claim with the airline and see if police spotted any suspicious persons. Its just crazy that someone could have possibly just come in and taken my bag. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. Election officials in several states, including Washington, urged Elon Musk on Aug. 5, 2024 to make changes to Grok, the AI assistant on his social media platform X, formerly Twitter, after it provided wrong information on deadlines for candidates seeking a spot on ballots in their states. (Washington State Standard) On the eve of the states primary, Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs warned voters to be wary of dubious election material, expressing concern that a deluge of manipulated and false information may be inserted into social media from foreign actors and other sources. As artificial intelligence gets cheaper and easier to use by those with malicious intentions, the rest of us must be careful to verify what we see before we take it to heart, he said in a statement Monday. While Hobbs comments came with Washington voters casting ballots in the Aug. 6 primary, they were aimed at elections in general as this is a year when the nation is choosing a new president. Hobbs spoke out shortly after he and four other secretaries of state called on Elon Musk in an open letter to immediately implement changes to the AI search assistant Grok on Musks social media platform X, citing its generating of wrong information that ballot deadlines in Washington and eight other states had passed. It happened July 21, shortly after President Joe Biden ended his reelection bid, and led to suggestions that Kamala Harris would be unable to get on the November ballot in those states. The letter notes that the false information was captured and shared repeatedly in multiple posts until getting corrected July 31. In fact, no deadlines had passed and rules in each state allow for changes of candidates for president and vice president. In Washington, the procedural deadline set out in state law is later this month. As tens of millions of voters in the U.S. seek basic information about voting in this major election year, X has the responsibility to ensure all voters using your platform have access to guidance that reflects true and accurate information about their constitutional right to vote, reads the letter signed by Hobbs and the secretaries of state of Michigan, Pennsylvania, Minnesota and New Mexico. In his separate statement, Hobbs said, The owners of social media platforms must take responsibility for safeguarding their audiences against the spread of false information, and this includes stopping their own AI mechanisms from generating it. Musks sharing on X, formerly Twitter, of a fake ad featuring a manipulated recording of Harris is another example of why voters must be on alert for faked material on social media, Hobbs added. The Associated Press reported the person who posted the ad originally noted it was a parody but Musk didnt when he shared it. It signals to the rest of us that other materials allowed there may not be trustworthy, Hobbs said of the platform Since the 2020 election, election officials in Washington and across the country have had to up their defenses against misinformation created with increasingly sophisticated software tools and spread across social media platforms. In the letter, the state officials urge Musk to direct Grok users with election-related inquiries to CanIVote.org which is run through the National Association of Secretaries of State. Hobbs recommends his offices website as a resource for Washington-related election data and materials. In 2023, state lawmakers passed legislation sought by Hobbs to set rules on the use of deepfakes in campaigns including requiring disclosure on any manipulated videos and giving candidates targeted by undisclosed deepfakes a right to sue for damages. These bad actors can and will sow distrust with our local elections, he said. If something you see raises questions about your access to a fair and trustworthy election here in Washington, please visit a legitimate elections office and learn the truth. SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) The Chatham County Municipalities held a joint press conference on the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby on Tuesday. Chairman Chester Ellis opened the remarks by praising the precautionary measures and responses led by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) and Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA). We were preparing ourselves for the worst, and we worked ourselves back to the best, Ellis said. U.S. Representative Buddy Carter (R-GA1) also commended the efforts of the agencies, law enforcement and municipalities, calling it a case study in exercising communication and cooperation. CEMAs Dennis T. Jones spoke about the curfew being ended tonight, though it is subject to change if conditions worsen. He also reiterated the continued Flash Flood and Tropical Storm Warnings as well as Flood Watch. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson and City Manager Jay Melder, Pooler Mayor Karen Williams and interim City Manager Matt Saxon, and Port Wentworth City Manager Steve Davis each gave updates about the conditions of their respective municipalities. The theme of the press conference: stay vigilant. The sentiment was initially shared by Rep. Carter before being echoed by Chairman Ellis. In each municipality, all non-essential functions will remain closed through Wednesday. For information on what functions will be available in the City of Savannah, click here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. EAGLE BUTTE, SD The Cheyenne River Youth Project announced today that it will be distributing supplies for the 2024-25 school year to hundreds of Cheyenne River children on Friday, Aug. 16. The annual School Supplies Distribution is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at CRYPs Chokata Wichoni (Center of Life) teen center. CRYPs annual School Supplies Drive is a major component of its Family Services program. To participate in the long-running program, all a local family needs to do is pay a $30 annual membership fee, which covers all family members for the year and provides access to school supplies, shoes, winter clothing, household supplies, baby items, and holiday gifts. All members of our Family Services program will be receiving cards in the mail for the August distribution, said Jerica Widow, CRYPs programs director. To receive school supplies, families must bring their children with them, along with their Family Services card. If you dont have a current membership but would like to obtain one so your family can participate, just call our office at (605) 964-8200. The grassroots, nonprofit youth organization has been providing school supplies to children ages 4-18 for decades. Many Lakota families on the Cheyenne River reservation simply dont have the room in their household budgets to purchase school supplies each year for their children. We want to provide support to those families so they can fulfill this critical need, Widow said. We also want to let families know that if they cant attend the distribution on Aug. 16, please contact us, and we can arrange a different pickup time. In a typical year, CRYP serves more than 500 schoolchildren through the School Supplies Distribution. This wouldnt be possible without the support of partners and friends across the country, Widow said. Weve built supplies lists for kindergarten through second grade, third through fifth grade, sixth through eighth grade, and ninth through 12th grade, she said. You can sponsor a child at one of these levels, and well handle all the shopping and the distribution. If youd like to contribute a backpack as well, an additional $30 will allow us to incorporate that. To sponsor a child through CRYPs 2023 School Supplies Drive, simply visit lakotayouth.org/school-supplies-drive. Here, you can make a secure online donation, or contribute an in-kind donation through Amazon, where CRYP's specific wish lists itemize the school supplies needed for each set of grades. Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. All contributions need to be in-house no later than Monday, Aug. 5, so CRYP staff members will have time to organize the supplies and prepare for hundreds of excited children. If supplies arrive after the deadline, however, the youth project will continue to collect and distribute them as needed during the final weeks of summer and the first weeks of the new school year. To learn more about the Cheyenne River Youth Project and its programs, and for information about making donations and volunteering, call (605) 964-8200 or visit www.lakotayouth.org. And, to stay up to date on the latest CRYP news and events, follow the youth project on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. About the Author: "Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net." Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net NIAMEY, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Niger will break off diplomatic ties with Ukraine "with immediate effect," Amadou Abdramane, spokesman for the Niger military government, announced on national television on Tuesday. He said in a statement that the move was taken because of Kyiv's "support for terrorist organizations," and called the UN Security Council to make a ruling on Ukraine's "aggression." Two days ago, Mali's transitional government announced it would sever diplomatic relations with Ukraine "with immediate effect," citing Ukraine's acknowledged involvement in an act of aggression against Mali. During the 2024 legislative session, Maine lawmakers approved a bill that removed the requirements for labeling individual cannabis-infused gummies with a universal symbol. (Photo by Getty Images) Amid an increasing number of reports of children in Maine ingesting cannabis , some worry that a new law could exacerbate the situation. States across the country are grappling with an increase in child cannabis ingestions, especially in the past few years as more states have moved to legalize. Accidental ingestions in children can lead to toxicity, which can cause symptoms such as vomiting or respiratory issues. The data for Maine varies because there isnt one route for reporting incidents; some families may call poison control and others may go straight to the hospital, but multiple sources point to a notable increase in the past five years. Earlier this year, lawmakers approved a bill that removed the requirements for labeling individual cannabis-infused gummies with a universal symbol. While the new law is intended to help certain small businesses, some experts worry that its potential to exacerbate an already worsening problem of children accidentally consuming the products is being overlooked. Accidental ingestion in minors is a real problem, said John Hudak, director of the Maine Office of Cannabis Policy. Data on child cannabis ingestions Data on child cannabis ingestion incidents was shared at a meeting with the Legislatures Health and Human Services Committee last week. There was data from both the Northern New England Poison Center and the Maine Child Death & Serious Injury Review Panel showing a significant increase. In 2023, the Northern New England Poison Center saw 71 incidents of children under 13 in Maine ingesting cannabis. That total is up from the 36 incidents reported in 2019. Almost three out of every five reports last year were children aged 5 and under. The Maine Child Death & Serious Injury Review Panel received reports of 46 child cannabis ingestions last year, up from the 11 reports it received in 2020. The panel received 19 reports in the first half of this year, Mark Moran, a social worker who leads the panel, shared with the committee. Both datasets only include reports where cannabis was the only known substance to be ingested. Moran shared additional data about opioid and fentanyl ingestion, but cannabis accounted for almost half the ingestion reports the panel received last year. We do hear often that these are small numbers and maybe inconsequential, but this is one piece of the puzzle, said Lexi Perry, a substance use prevention specialist with the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention. I think we as a system are trying to use the best data that we have available. Maine Sen. Joe Baldacci (D-Penobscot), who chairs the committee, was quick to jump in and say that the committee doesnt see the numbers as small or inconsequential. Its all very important because these are very vulnerable children and its really something that we can prevent by using our heads, he added. Data also show that almost half of the cases reported to the Northern New England Poison Center resulted in moderate or major health outcomes for the children, Perry said. Moderate outcomes could be severe drowsiness or difficulty breathing. Children with major outcomes may need to be put on a ventilator or placed in intensive care. For younger kids, it likely takes less to have a more severe effect because of their smaller size, Perry said. A step backward After hearing the data, state Rep. Michele Meyer (D-Eliot) said the new packaging law for gummies was a regression in safety protocols. If we truly believe that we can have an impact on the health and wellbeing of children in Maine, we have to look at this issue, she said. Meyer added that she had deep regret over what she sees as the Legislature weakening regulations around the labeling of cannabis products. Unfortunately, we have taken a big, giant step backward here, she said. The new law in question was introduced in a bill from state Rep. David Boyer (R-Poland) in response to what he called an unfair application of the law. The legislation adds gummies to the list of cannabis products that are impracticable to individually label with a universal cannabis symbol. Other products that were already on that list include popcorn, chips, pretzels and granola. It passed the Maine House of Representatives 102-36 and the Senate without a roll call vote. Gov. Janet Mills allowed Boyers bill to become law without her signature. The law took effect in April. Hudak said his team at the Office of Cannabis Policy echoed Meyers concerns about the new law. He said balancing the perspectives of businesses with public health and safety can be a challenge at times, but the office was clear with its concerns of unintended consequences by removing the universal symbol from gummy products. The office eventually supported an amended version of the bill, but Hudak said there was still discomfort with the policy choice. A universal symbol may not mean anything to a 4-year-old, but it could be a tool for an adult taking care of that child who may be unfamiliar with the products, Hudak said at the Health and Human Services committee meeting. Similarly, David Nathan, a doctor who testified in opposition to Boyers original bill, said although cannabis is safer than alcohol and tobacco, it is not harmless. Nathan, who founded a national physicians' association committed to the legalization and responsible regulation of cannabis, said the cannabis industry should be competitive and not overregulated, he argued public health and safety cant be compromised. An embossed or printed symbol on edibles is the last line of defense against accidental ingestion, Nathan wrote in his testimony. In a statement, Boyer pushed back on some of those concerns, pointing to the strong legislative support for the bill. "The reforms passed by a bipartisan supermajority of the Legislature maintain all existing packaging and labeling requirements including child-resistant packaging labeled with the THC Universal Symbol, Boyer said., in a statement. This is simply more Reefer Madness 2.0 from John Hudak and the OCP. Maine Rep. Marc Malon (D-Biddeford), who sits on the committee that worked on the bill, said he was disappointed the Office of Cannabis Policy backed down on its opposition to the bill. In committee, Malon supported a different version that would have still required the symbol for gummies but offered more options for businesses to affix the symbol. However, that version of the bill didnt make it to the House floor, so Malon voted against the final bills enactment. As for child cannabis ingestions, Malon said he doesnt think its a five-alarm fire, but I do think its a problem. He said he strongly supports legal cannabis, but he said the industry should be responsible stewards of the products and doing what they can to ensure that it doesnt end up in the wrong hands or ingested by the wrong person. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta counting down until it welcomes patients to new hospital Channel 2 Action News is getting a new look at Georgias newest pediatric hospital. Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta is less than two months away from accepting patients at the new Arthur M. Blank Hospital on North Druid Hills Road. On Tuesday, the Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta allowed Channel 2 Action News cameras inside to see the new facility. Were fortunate we live in a city thats growing, Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta CEO Donna Hyland said. We live in a state thats growing so we must grow to meet those needs. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The hospital will have 446 patient beds, which is 116 more than the current Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta Egleston location on Clifton Road. The hospital also has larger, private patient rooms with a double sofa, so parents can more comfortably stay with their children. Every floor features washers and dryers, family lounges, and kitchenettes. Channel 2 Action News also spoke to Chris Chelette who oversaw the construction of the new hospital. At our peak, we had 2,200 workers on site, and it felt like in a mini city, he said. It has been truly rewarding and inspiring to see where we are and how far weve come with this project. TRENDING STORIES: The Arthur M. Blank Hospital opens on Sept. 29. Thats when hundreds of patients will be transferred by ambulance from the Egleston campus. Chief Nursing Officer Linda Cole says the process has been meticulously planned and is expected to take 10 hours. We plan to move 340 patients. It will take about 56 ambulances that weve worked with community partners to obtain, and not just from Georgia, but from surrounding states. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] China to beef up regulations on fentanyl chemicals, White House says WASHINGTON (Reuters) - China said it would begin adding controls and regulation to the production of three chemicals used to make illicit fentanyl, the White House said on Tuesday, calling the move "a valuable step forward". It is the third significant such action since the United States and China resumed bilateral counter-narcotics cooperation in November 2023, acting National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett said in a statement. Illicit fentanyl remains a potent issue for U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who has clinched the Democratic nomination for the Nov. 5 U.S. presidential election. Fentanyl overdoses have surged to become the leading cause of death for Americans between the ages of 18 and 45 and over 107,000 Americans died from drug overdoses in 2023. As part of an effort launched last year to thaw icy relations with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Biden agreed to cooperate with Beijing on counter-narcotics. A delegation of senior Chinese officials met Biden administration officials last Wednesday to continue conversations on increasing controls on fentanyl chemicals and restricting financing for the drug trade in China. A U.S. congressional committee said in April that China was directly subsidizing production of illicit fentanyl precursors for sale abroad and fueling the U.S. opioid crisis, releasing findings from an investigation it said unveiled Beijing's incentives for the deadly chemicals. (Reporting by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Andrew Heavens and Sharon Singleton) An already absolutely massive hangar in a remote area of northwestern China is now even bigger after receiving a 300-foot-long addition. The War Zone has been following activities at the facility, which is tied to the countrys development of high-altitude airships that could potentially gather intelligence, facilitate long-range communications, provide early warning capabilities for missile defense, or even possibly serve as launch platforms for drones and other payloads. But why would China need to make what is one of the largest, if not the largest, airship hangars on earth bigger than it already was? This development points to the possibility that China plans to develop larger airships, ones that could offer extreme performance and payload-carrying capabilities. The addition to the hangar, which is situated near Bosten Lake in Chinas Xinjiang Autonomous Region, can be seen in new satellite imagery that The War Zone obtained from Planet Labs. Construction of the original 1,150-foot-long and 450-foot-wide hangar, which is also extremely tall, started in 2013 and looks to have wrapped up in 2015. To give a sense of just how big the structure is, length and width-wise at least, a U.S. Navy Nimitz class supercarrier would have already fit inside the hangar with 100 feet to spare on either side before the extension was added on. A high-resolution satellite image of the hangar taken on June 7, 2024, showing the extension under construction. This oblique view also shows the main door open and gives a good sense of how tall the structure is. PHOTO 2024 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION A review of additional Planet Labs imagery shows that work on the hangar extension was largely completed by July of this year. A lower-resolution image of the hangar taken on July 28, 2024, with work on the extension looking to be complete. PHOTO 2024 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION In 2022, our Downlink team spotted work on the foundation for the addition to the hangar, as well as other construction pointing to a significant planned expansion of the overall site, as seen below. PHOTO 2022 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION / @SimTack A separate, smaller 450-foot-long rectangular foundation adjacent to the south side of the hangar that was visible in 2022 has since turned into a structure, that looks to be multi-storied, with an adjacent walled lot. Work on what is likely a group of administrative buildings immediately to the east appears to be complete, as well. What prompted the new hangar extension is unknown. As already noted, the structure is tied to Chinese airship developments. Last year, separate satellite imagery from private firm BlackSky emerged showing what appeared to be a teardrop-shaped airship or aerostat on the operating area that extends from the hangar to the west. A satellite image taken on November 4, 2022, showing what looks to be a teardrop-shaped airship or aerostat in front of the hangar. This was before the completion of the extension, but the foundation is visible. BlackSky BlackSky The apparent lighter-than-air craft seen in the BlackSky image was substantially smaller than the hangar, as well as other known Chinese airship designs. The Yuan Meng and BNST-KT-02, reportedly around 246 and 328 feet long, respectively, are prime examples that you can learn more about here. A Chinese-language infographic regarding the Yuan Meng airship. Chinese internet It is true that hangars of this size are often used to house multiple airships or other lighter-than-air craft at once. However, a larger rectangular cradle has been observed in front of the hangar Xinjiang in the past making clear that it is intended, at least in part, to house much bigger designs. A patent for a similar, if not identical cradle for moving airships around on the ground is also linked to an element of the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) known as Unit 63660, according to a report last year from CNN. A satellite image of the hangar taken on Nov. 25, 2020, with the cradle visible in front. PHOTO 2021 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION The new extension to what was already one of the largest hangars in the world only adds to the evidence that the facility is meant to shelter large airships, including ones of a sensitive nature, and points to the potential for even bigger designs to operate from there in the future. The hangar and its associated facilities are located near other PLA sites tied to missile defense and anti-satellite activities, as well as work on electromagnetic pulse and directed energy weapons technologies. The entire area is sometimes referred to as Korla East, in reference to its proximity to Korla, Xinjiangs second-largest city and the capital of the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, as well as Bohu. Unit 63660 is not readily mentioned in Mandarin media until around 2019, around which time it has become clear that the unit is based out of Luoyang City, Henan Province, and maintains a testing facility in Xinjiang Province, according to a 2023 paper from the U.S. Air Forces China Aerospace Studies Institute (CASI). Recent procurement announcements for the unit do indicate that some of the procured items would be used for satellite applications. The unit has rapidly received multiple HPM [high-power microwave] and EP [electromagnetic pulse] related invention patents since it appeared. Luoyang City is some 1,440 miles to the southwest from where the hangar is in Xinjiang. A 2023 recruitment notice for Unit 63660 stated it originated in the time of the Two Bombs one Satellite Era and embodies the Malan Spirit, indicating its historical connection with former GAD [PLA General Armaments Department] Base 21 in Xinjiang Province, the unit number for which was Unit 63650, the 2023 CASI paper adds. The recruitment notice also states that the unit is involved in leading edge weapons testing and evaluation in the fields of electronics and information technology, military weapons development, aerospace technology, and artificial intelligence unmanned systems. An image taken from a recruiting notice that is said to show ground vehicles assigned to Unit 63660. via CASI Base 21, which subsequently fell under the PLAs Strategic Support Force (PLASSF), is a highly classified nuclear test complex headquartered in Malan on the opposite side of Bosten Lake from where the hangar is located. The PLA announced plans earlier this year to dissolve the PLASSF and replace it with three separate entities, the Aerospace Force, the Cyberspace Force, and the Information Support Force. The PLA Air Forces (PLAAF) secretive Malan Air Base, a major test and evaluation hub, is also situated near the northern side of the lake. All of this is in line with The War Zones previous assessments that the hangar and related airship developments could very well be intertwined, at least to a degree, with missile defense, anti-satellite, and other advanced Chinese military research and development efforts. At the same time, the PLA has a clear interest in airships and other lighter-than-air craft for use in a variety of more conventional roles, as well, including as launch platforms for munitions and swarms of uncrewed aerial systems. Carrying outsized cargo remains a very viable role for large airships, too. This reflects something of a growing trend now among armed forces around the world, including the U.S. military, but China is a definite leader in this space. The kinds of craft that would fill up event part of the newly extended hangar in northwestern China could be equally huge with extreme range and endurance capabilities. Large, high-flying, and long-endurance lighter-than-air craft offer platforms with uniquely vast fields of view for sensors and communications systems that can operate across long distances and/or for extended periods in a designated area. Especially using solar power, uncrewed airships and balloons could potentially operate for months or even years at a time without needing to land, acting as pseudo-satellites supporting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), communications relay, and other missions. The Chinese government has already been investing heavily in stratospheric intelligence-gathering capabilities utilizing powered and/or steerable high-altitude balloons and other lighter-than-air craft capable of regional and intercontinental operations. This became an international cause celebre after a Chinese spy balloon intruded into U.S airspace last year and was subsequently shot down after passing over parts of the United States and Canada. The incident drew attention to prior sightings of similar balloons in the Pacific region. A more airship-like design with some broad similarities to the Yuan Meng was spotted over the South China Sea close to the island of Luzon in the Philippines in 2022, as well. Control of various shoals in the waters to the west of Luzon is particularly hotly contested between China and the Philippines. This was taken recently in Pangasinan, Phillipines. Posted by Redditor gagsti02: pic.twitter.com/sr7TBaYtGJ Spacecowboy78 (@Spacecowboy781) December 18, 2022 Earlier this year, authorities in Taiwan also accused their counterparts on the mainland of engaging in a campaign of psychological warfare, as well as threatening the safety of civilian air traffic in the region, with a spate of high-altitude balloon launches over the island. As another example of the use of lighter-than-air craft for general harassment outside of the context of an open conflict, North Korea sent hordes of balloons carrying excrement and other trash over South Korea earlier this year. Those incidents, which disrupted civilian air traffic and raised concerns about what else might be in the balloons payloads, underscored the very real potential threats that light-than-air craft can pose. When it comes to the enlargement of the hangar in the desert in Xinjiang, this only underscores Chinas lighter-than-air ambitions and points to the potential for still larger and more capable airship designs on the horizon. Contact the author: joe@twz.com The X-ray machine donated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to the Hospital de Tela in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, on July 31, 2024. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints donated an X-ray system and a digital mammography machine to two hospitals in Honduras. | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints donated an X-ray system and a digital mammography machine to two hospitals in Honduras. The X-ray system was given to the Tela Hospital and the digital mammography machine was given to Mario Catarino Rivas Hospital, according to a press release from the Church of Jesus Christ. Both of these hospitals are in San Pedro Sula. The Church of Jesus Christ documented the donation Monday. Elder Patricio M. Giuffra Vargas of the Central America Area presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ said about the donation, To us, the life of a human being is important, and as Christ said, Whatever we do to one of the least of these, thy brethern, we did it unto Him. The X-ray system will serve at least 12,000 people and help patients with broken bones, head injuries and other ailments get help. Post-operative evaluations and treatment for trauma of any kind including diabetic foot issues, osteomyelitis injuries and gangrene will also be provided, said the release. This mammogram (machine) will allow (us), at least, to study all women with some risk factor, which is more preventative, and prevention allows us to address it in time and save lives, said Gabriel Paredes, a doctor at the Mario Catarino Rivas Hospital. According to statistics provided by the Church of Jesus Christ, there are 187,341 church members living in Honduras. The Church of Jesus Christ has grown substantially since 1980 when there were 6,300 members. Honduras is home to 31 stakes compromised of 178 wards and 61 branches. The country also has a temple, the Tegucigalpa Honduras Temple, and four missions. Members in the area are preparing for the opening of the second temple: the San Pedro Sula Honduras Temple scheduled to be dedicated on Oct. 13 of this year. The director of Tela Hospital in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, thanks Elder Patricio M. Giuffra Vargas, member of the Central America Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, for a donation on July 31, 2024. | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint Lillian B. Ewen, the newest circuit judge seated on the Treasure Coast after being appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, says she has some big family shoes to fill in donning a black robe and taking the bench. Ewen, 41, who since 2021 has served as a general magistrate for the 19th Judicial Circuit, was tapped by DeSantis June 17 to replace Hobe Sound attorney Brennan Keeler, who resigned after 11 weeks on the job. Keeler had been serving the remainder of Circuit Judge Robert Belangers term following his retirement last year. And because the elected term expires in 2025, Ewen will have to stand for election to retain the post. Lillian Ewen I am honored and humbled by the governor's faith in me, Ewen said. Getting that call was an absolute highlight of my career. I'm a sixth generation Fort Pierce, Floridian, and my family has served this community and the state of Florida for generations. And I am very excited to continue to serve and honor that history and tradition here on the Treasure Coast, she said. That family service tradition includes Ewens late grandfather John M. McCarty, a prominent Fort Pierce attorney and businessman who served as a municipal judge, a circuit judge and in 1962 was elected to the Florida Senate. He also was chief of staff to his brother, Gov. Daniel McCarty in 1952, and later served as president of the Florida Bar in 1971. Florida Supreme Court Justice Campbell Thornal administering the oath of office for Ninth Judicial circuit judge John M. McCarty at the St. Lucie County Courthouse in Fort Pierce, Florida. Not only has she aspired to become a judge since childhood, Ewen said her parents instilled in me the importance of giving back to one's community. I'm very excited that as a career public servant, I have really been called to do that, she said. It was her fifth time seeking to be appointed as a circuit judge, she said, and the third time her name was on a short list sent to the governors office for consideration. Fifth time is the charm and anybody who's a Saturday Night Live fan will know that there's a Five Timers club, so we kind of have that in the judiciary as well, Ewen said. I believe that everything happens for a reason and God has a plan. And sometimes, you know, right place, right time, the stars align. I feel very lucky, excited and humbled that this was apparently my time. Circuit judges seated in Indian River, St. Lucie, Martin and Okeechobee counties within the 19th Judicial Circuit, preside over probate and civil litigation, felony cases and family law, such as dependency, divorce and juvenile hearings. Ewen has been assigned to the Indian River County Courthouse in Vero Beach to preside over family court matters. I have a bit of the background doing St. Lucie County magistrate work. I was in the family division there doing post judgments and Baker Acts for three years, she said. "It'll be a great opportunity to serve in a slightly different way, but still a familiar way as well. Ewen earned her bachelors degree from Wake Forest University and her juris doctorate from the University of Florida. She was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2009. My first job was with the judiciary 15 years ago and I've just basically never left, she said. The 19th Judiciary is home for me. Meanwhile, the 19th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission is vetting attorneys qualified to fill the court vacancy created last month when St. Lucie County Judge Kathryn Nelson retired after 19 years on the bench, records show. Interested attorneys may apply to the JNC through Aug. 12 for recommendations expected to be sent to DeSantis by September, who will then have 60 days to make an appointment. Beware: Out-of-towners try again to manipulate local elections Opinion: Public defender investigating criminal cases in which Keith Pearson might have testified Melissa E. Holsman is the legal affairs reporter for TCPalm and Treasure Coast Newspapers and is writer and co-host of "Uncertain Terms," a true-crime podcast. Reach her at melissa.holsman@tcpalm.com. If you are a subscriber, thank you. If not, become a subscriber to get the latest local news on the Treasure Coast. This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Newest circuit judge on Treasure Coast realizing her childhood dream Governors Kathy Hochul of New York, Tim Walz of Minnesota and Wes Moore of Maryland speak to reporters after a meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House on July 3, 2024, in Washington, D.C., as Biden sought to shore up support following his debate performance. Walz on Tuesday, Aug. 6, was tapped as the running mate to the Democratic presidential nominee, Kamala Harris. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) Democrats moved quickly Tuesday to back Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as the running mate of their presidential candidate, Vice President Kamala Harris. Party leaders, including President Joe Biden, and figures across the Democratic political spectrum, from progressive favorite U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York to independent U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin III, a centrist West Virginian who left the party earlier this year, praised Walzs record and character. Republicans largely dismissed Walz as too liberal, saying the pick showed Harris was not interested in appealing to voters in the ideological middle. As statements poured in before noon Tuesday, Walz took a call from Biden, a former vice president himself, congratulating the Minnesota governor on the selection, according to the White House. The first major decision a party nominee makes is their choice for Vice President, Biden said in a tweet. And Kamala Harris has made a great decision in choosing Governor Tim Walz to be her running mate. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in an MSNBC interview Tuesday morning that Walz is wonderful and praised his record as the top Democrat on the House Veterans Affairs Committee. Walz represented a southern Minnesota swing district in the U.S. House from 2007 to 2019. Former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama said in a statement that Walzs record in office and personal character would make him a great candidate and vice president. Governor Walz doesnt just have the experience to be vice president, he has the values and integrity to make us proud, the Obamas wrote. Uniting the party Walzs appeal as a running mate resides at least partly in an image of a straight-talking Midwesterner. In a statement, Manchin, who shares with Walz a history of winning elections as a Democrat in rural, socially conservative areas, highlighted the Minnesotans normality. My friend Governor Tim Walz will bring normality back to the most chaotic political environment that most of us have ever seen, Manchin wrote. All of the candidates were strong and any one of them would have been a great pick, but I can think of no one better than Governor Walz to help bring our country closer together and bring balance back to the Democratic Party. Walz also appealed to the other end of the partys ideological spectrum, through his record as Minnesota governor. Ocasio-Cortez alluded to Walzs support for a state law to provide free meals to all public school students and to expand reproductive rights. Vice President Harris made an excellent decision in Gov. Walz as her running mate, Ocasio-Cortez said. Together, they will govern effectively, inclusively, and boldly for the American people. They wont back down under tight odds, either from healthcare to school lunch. GOP response Republican leaders, including the GOP candidates for president and vice president, former President Donald Trump and Ohio U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance, said Walzs record was too liberal. Talking to a CNN reporter on a campaign plane, Vance attacked Walzs response to the unrest following George Floyds murder by a Minneapolis police officer in 2020, including a reference to a Harris tweet in 2020 supporting a bail fund for protesters arrested in that aftermath. They make an interesting tag team because, of course, Tim Walz allowed rioters to burn down Minneapolis in the summer of 2020, Vance said. And then the few who got caught, Kamala Harris helped bail them out of jail. At the request of Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, Walz deployed the Minnesota National Guard to quell rioting in the aftermath of Floyds killing, but much damage continued. The Trump-Vance campaign debuted an ad that called Harris and Walz dangerously liberal. Kamala Harris just doubled down on her radical vision for America by tapping another left-wing extremist as her VP nominee, the ad begins. Also-rans Other Democrats whod been on the Harris short list for running mate congratulated Walz and signaled their support for the ticket. Vice President Kamala Harris has my enthusiastic support and I know that Governor Tim Walz is an exceptionally strong addition to the ticket who will help Kamala move our country forward, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said in part of a lengthy written statement. Shapiro, whose office said Monday night he was scheduled to appear at the Tuesday evening rally in Philadelphia that will be Walzs first official campaign appearance, was reported to be the runner-up to Walz. U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, another finalist whom Harris interviewed in Washington Sunday, praised Walzs record as governor and in the U.S. House, where he was a colleague of Kellys wife, Gabby Giffords. Tim has years of experience representing Minnesota both in the House of Representatives, where he served with Gabby, and as Minnesotas governor, Kelly wrote in an email to supporters, later tweeted by a spokesman. He has shown up time and time again for working families and I know hell continue that work in the White House. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, another potential pick, said he was honored to have been considered. In a post to X, he called Walz a great friend and a great choice. I fully support this new ticket and will work to elect Kamala Harris as our next President of the United States, he wrote. Climate, labor groups Several groups representing organized labor and supporters of efforts to address climate change quickly enthusiastically backed the selection of Walz. United Autoworkers President Shawn Fain said in a statement the union, which is crucial to Democrats in the key swing state of Michigan, would work to elect Harris and Walz. Tim Walz has been a great governor and is going to make a great Vice President, said Fain. Hes stood with the working class every step of the way, and has walked the walk, including on a UAW picket line last fall. Fain said in a CBS interview on Sunday that Walz and Beshear were his two favorites for the position. United Steelworkers International President David McCall said Tuesday that Walz, who was a union member as a public-school teacher, was a working-class champion. Vice President Harris couldnt have chosen a stronger champion of workers to be her running mate, and the USW applauds her decision, McCall wrote. From his many years of service in Congress to his time as governor of Minnesota, Gov. Walz has fought for working families every step of the way. A former union educator, hes enacted some of the most significant pro-worker reforms in our nations history. Davie Kieve, the president of EDF Action, the political arm of the Environmental Defense Fund, called Walz a proven leader and climate champion. While Walz, like Harris, will be 60 on Election Day, groups representing young voters supported him. Sunrise Movement, a far-left youth-led climate group that had kept the Biden administration at arms length, endorsed Walz in a statement from communications director Stevie OHanlon that called Walz an excellent choice and highlighted Walzs work to enact a law to move Minnesota to 100% clean energy by 2040. As Governor, Tim Walz has made huge strides to address the climate crisis, OHanlon wrote. He has done this by pitching climate action as a way to make peoples everyday lives better, create good-paying green jobs, and invest in making communities stronger. That is a winning message, and one the Democratic ticket should put at the forefront of their agenda. One group that supported Walz when he represented his rural U.S. House district criticized the pick. A tweet from the National Rifle Association said Walz would be a disaster for our right to bear arms. Tim Walz is a political chameleon changing his positions to further his own political agenda, Randy Kozuch, the chairman of the NRA Political Victory Fund, the groups political action committee, said in a statement. The NRA had awarded Walz, who has professed a love of hunting, an A rating as a U.S. House member. But Walz began supporting tighter gun regulations while running for governor in 2018, after the February shooting at Parkland High School in Florida. As governor, he has signed some gun control legislation. House members Members and former members of the House Democratic Caucus heaped praise on their former colleague. Former Rep. Beto ORourke of Texas described Walz as a great friend and an effective lawmaker who reached across the aisle. Met Tim Walz on my first day in Congress, sat next to him on Veterans Affairs committee for the following six years, ORourke wrote on X. No one fought harder for veterans. And he did it by bringing Democrats and Republicans together to get the job done. Former House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland said Walz was an invaluable member of the caucus. Governor Walzs work ethic helped him to be a pragmatic, effective leader in the House, Hoyer wrote in a statement. His plainspoken, common-sense approach to governing allowed him to deliver for Veterans and Minnesotans. I know he will bring that same dedication and empathy to the Vice Presidency. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) After nearly a month and a half of being laid over at meetings, Rockford City Council has officially approved the development plan for the proposed complex on Garrett Lane. The proposal is a planned unit development consisting of 240 apartment units, clubhouse and a three-story assisted living/memory care facility. Council voted tonight and the approval came from a 12-2 vote. Second Ward Alderman Jonathan Logemann said there is definitely a need for housing in the area, and projects like Garrett Lane aim at improving that. I think this really poignantly addresses that with 240 units in an undeveloped area, Logemann said. I think it does that in a responsible manner with some luxurious amenities. I think it will be definitely positive for the community. Some neighboring businesses, such as Midway Village, expressed their concerns earlier this summer. Council did not announce a projected start date for the development. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. Professor Lin Zhanxi (R, front), the inventor of Juncao Technology, talks with Alphonse Munyaneza (L, front), a Rwandan university student growing mushrooms, in Kigali, Rwanda, Aug. 3, 2024. (Photo by Huang Wanqing/Xinhua) KIGALI, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Professor Lin Zhanxi from China's Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, who invented Juncao Technology, has returned to Rwanda to motivate the technology users, years after it was introduced in the east African country. Speaking in a recent interview at Kabuye in the Gasabo District of Kigali, the Rwandan capital, his former workstation, Lin, 81, recalled how they had to overcome a variety of challenges including fear, lack of water, electricity, poor housing and malaria infection to establish Juncao Technology in the aftermath of the 1994 genocide against Tutsi in Rwanda. He said that during his first visit to Rwanda, government officials in the Ministry of Agriculture informed him about unemployment, food insecurity, hunger and poverty in the country, the major challenges the government faced. From 2006 to the first half of 2011, he said Chinese technicians visited Rwanda to support the project and wondered how they would withstand a lack of water, let alone electricity. "But we had a firm belief that we could help the locals here get out of poverty, so we persevered," he said, stressing that the success of Juncao in Rwanda was about firm belief and persistence. Juncao, a hybrid grass and an important multifunctional agricultural resource, was developed in China and is used for mushroom farming. "It is precisely because of our persistence that a new way has been forged for the low-income poor rural households in Rwanda, which is to increase job opportunities, eradicate poverty, and uplift millions of poor women in rural households," he said. Lin believes that Juncao technology has taken root in Rwandan villages and households, where experts work closely with the people. To date, over 4,000 Rwandan farmers are benefiting from Juncao technology. More than 30,000 people in the agricultural value chain are employed in the sector, according to information from the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board. "We are here to help people... The participation and development of poor households will play a positive role in the survival and development of mankind," said Lin. He advised Rwandans to take advantage of the rains the country receives to plant Giant Juncao and urged them to make full use of the grass to grow mushrooms, so the income can be greatly increased. Alphonse Munyaneza, a Rwandan university student growing mushrooms, said that Lin's dedication and encouragement energize mushroom growers in the country. Munyaneza could not hide his excitement of meeting the person behind Juncao technology. "Today is a great day for me because I didn't expect this visit. I usually come to work on weekends, spend a few hours on the business, and then return to school," he said. Munyaneza started mushroom growing after receiving training from early learners of Juncao Technology in his Gasabo District. "After finishing my secondary studies, I approached an expert to teach me how to produce mushrooms. He agreed, and I undertook two months of training. With a small investment of around 100,000 Rwandan francs, I was able to make a profit in just three months," he said. "He has promised to teach me how to produce mushroom tubes. At home, we consume mushrooms regularly. There was a time when prices were high because of scarcity and that's when I decided to grow them myself, initially for consumption, but later I realized its business potential." The proceeds from mushrooms help Munyaneza cover his transport costs to school as well as family needs. "In this world, relying solely on a wage or salary is difficult. Having a side business is crucial. I hope to continue growing this business, and perhaps one day, I'll pursue further studies in China, inspired by my mentor's success," Munyaneza said. Professor Lin Zhanxi, the inventor of Juncao Technology, checks a mushroom tube at a workshop in Kigali, Rwanda, Aug. 3, 2024. (Photo by Huang Wanqing/Xinhua) SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) Sioux Citys city council voted to suspend requirements in Iowa code for hiring employees for the police department for a certain period of time. Council members voted 3-2 in favor of this resolution. Sioux City police are experiencing an immediate need to hire more staff. By suspending the requirement of the certified list, police will be able to interview and select candidates for hire more quickly. The current process is causing the police department to lose good candidates to other departments during the process of certifying the lists. This means the suspension will allow flexibility in the hiring process and how they accept candidates. Mayor Bob Scott, however, voted no on the resolution and said this is a bad idea. Sioux City council grants more time for LAMB Theatre I can guarantee at the next fire, well be here, Scott said. They said it at the mic, they thought about doing it citywide and Im going to be resistant to do that citywide. I mean, why have a civil service commission if youre going to take them out of the process? I dont think thats the right thing to do right now. Sioux City police chief Rex Mueller says the department will still be working with civil services. Police will have a one-year period to hire more employees without the requirements of the section of the Iowa code. What were finding is that it is a very challenging and changing hiring environment, so we are just advocating for processes that we feel will facilitate that 24/7, were always open to candidates type of process, Mueller said. So this is essentially us requesting a change that we feel will facilitate a better hiring process and a better hiring experience for applicants that want to come and work for our department. Sioux City police will now revise their hiring process to adapt to the suspension. The department will seek approval from the Civil Service Commission meeting, which takes place Tuesday, Aug. 5. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) The City of Knoxville released its Fair Equity Housing Plan, which outlines how it will provide equitable access to housing opportunities and resources. Knoxville is currently in the process of creating a Consolidated Plan, which will guide the citys use of U.S. Housing & Urban Development Department (HUD) funding over the second half of the 2020s. As part of this plan, HUD requires that cities conduct an analysis of their current housing conditions and identify ways they can improve, or the Equity Plan. TN governor to reintroduce school vouchers proposal despite detractors The equity plan is more about fairness and access to housing, not really related to a particular structure or how a structure is built. Its mainly the patterns, making sure that theres intentionality in your policies that brings about fairness and access to housing, said Kevin Dubose, Director of Housing and Neighborhood Development for the City of Knoxville. As opposed to prior housing plans the city has created, this one addresses access to housing, rather than the creation of housing itself. Some of the main goals outlined in the plan are to further integrate Knoxville neighborhoods, remedy the harm done by urban renewal, and prioritize economic development in lower-opportunity areas. Knoxville resident and housing advocate Aaron Jernigan thinks the plan is an opportunity to lower racial disparities. I think the city has an opportunity to forge a new future, and a future thats more equitable for all, he said. Ultimately, we need to promote different types of housing to meet our needs. Not everyone can afford to build, to maintain a sprawling single-family home. Knox County Schools roll out safety plan for 2024-25 school year Previous housing measures the city has taken, like its Missing Middle Housing plan that passed in February, may help achieve the equity goals outlined in the plan. Four main recommendations are listed in the equity plan: Establish a Housing Resource Center as a hub for coordinated programs that advance fair housing and equitable opportunity. Provide support to rebuild the fair housing infrastructure. Nurture and Sustain an Array of Partnerships to Expand Housing Options for Knoxville Residents. Prioritize Equitable Economic Development in Lower Opportunity Areas. Dubose said the city has looked at programs in other places to decide how they would develop a housing resource hub. In some cities, there exists a place where you can make one application for housing and not 10 to 10 different apartment complexes. So housing resources could be a place where theres intake, they do the credit check one time, and it goes to multiple. So thats an idea were pursuing, he said. Monument stolen from Knox County park, officials in search of our children The draft plan also lists key findings that look at racial disparities in Knoxvilles housing market. It states that housing segregation by race in Knoxville is moderate by national standards, but is still artificially high. It set a goal of lowering segregation levels in neighborhoods. It also says Knoxville is a multiethnic city and is likely to become more so. The drafted plan also looked at KCDCs role in deconcentrating poverty in its programs and set a goal to improve the range of options available to those using housing choice vouchers. Its been very difficult for families to identify housing through the voucher program because they are reliant, we are reliant, on private landlords to lease to our voucher holders, Ben Bentley with KCDC said. If we can, at least with a portion of the units, attach project-based vouchers to those units, it essentially reserves those units for a 20-year period and makes them available to our residents. Sevier Animal Care Center in dire straits due to overcrowding KCDC is looking to recruit more private landlords to lease to voucher holders. Bentley said there are benefits for landlords who participate, such as having a guaranteed subsidy portion of rent directly deposited each month. Two public input meetings were held to help put the draft plan together. The month of August will serve as the public comment period for the draft plan. The city is holding another public input meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 7, at the Cansler YMCA at 6 p.m. Feedback can also be emailed to Fair Housing@KnoxvilleTN.gov or to Linda Rust by email at LRust@KnoxvilleTN.gov. Written comments can be sent to P.O. Box 1630, Knoxville, TN 37902. All comments received through Aug. 31, 2024, will be included in the Plan. A draft of the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan is due to be released in March 2025. Read the full draft Fair Housing Equity Plan here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side. Nearly 40 kids and their families are without a place to stay tonight after a homeless shelter shut down. As reported on News Center 7 at 11, City officials are working to help displaced families after the closure of a local homeless shelter According to a spokesperson for the city, the immediate closure comes after the City Commission voted Monday in a 3-2 split to cease funding for the shelter. The City Commission vote that ultimately led to the shelter closure operated by our partner Homefull was not made lightly, and we understand the significant impact it has on the families who relied on its services, Springfield Mayor Rob Rue said. Our immediate priority is to coordinate with our community partners to facilitate this process and ensure a smooth transition for all affected individuals. >> Adult-use marijuana sales to begin today; What locations are selling in the Miami Valley Shaniqua Ragland and her children had been staying at Executive Inn since May. Tuesday morning she found out Springfield City Commission voted to stop funding for the shelter and it forced people out. What are we supposed to do? This is our livelihood here. This is our living standards, Ragland said. Mike Calabrese, the director of The Opportunities for Individual Change in Clark County, an organization that helps people with housing, thinks it could have been handled differently. They lost their place to stay today. I was told that Homefull Dayton notified the city about 8:00 or 8:30 this morning that they were packing up, moving out, and that the city just felt like their back was against the wall and didnt have a lot of options, Calabrese said. It breaks my heart to see it. Theyre already up, been uprooted and their life is already in total upheaval and turmoil and now we could have done better, he added. Calabrese said most people, who were forced out of the Executive Inn, can get into another shelter, or hotel for the night. He said he has plans to advocate with board member Charlie Bush for Clark County to step in with emergency funding. We will continue following this story. With the Democratic National Convention just two weeks away, Chicago officials and groups planning protests around the event continue to squabble over where demonstrations will take place. Several pro-Palestinian groups who together sued the city in March in an effort to secure protest routes within sight and sound of the convention were in court again Monday to demand a more direct and longer route along Washington Boulevard for their March on the DNC. Their attorney, Chris Williams, said they were blindsided by the possibility that they might not be able to hold speeches in a park two blocks north of the United Center. Williams vowed to keep fighting for a plan for marches and speeches he argued would be safer than what the city has proposed and better align with his clients First Amendment rights. The way the city is doing this is take-it-or-leave-it, you do what we say, Williams told U.S. District Judge Andrea Wood. Its not enough to say, You have a route, youre going to live with it. Youre going to have chaos. After a two-hour hearing and with neither side showing any intention of making further concessions, Wood said she planned to share a ruling as soon as possible, indicating a decision on the protests logistics may come in the next week. Separately, a group that wants to protest in support of Israel during the convention said it is unsure of the status of its planned rally. Aya Shechter, chief programming officer with the Israeli American Council, said in an interview that her group wants demonstrators to be allowed to send the message, We stand with Israel, in light of what she described as anti-Israel protests around the country in light of the war in Gaza. We think that it is important that we have the same access to express our First Amendment rights and say what we want to say as well, Shechter said. It is important for us that Israel is not a partisan issue. The Israeli American Councils application to hold a demonstration on the last day of the convention, the same day two pro-Palestinian groups plan to hold marches, was initially rejected by the city, a decision in line with the response to other protest groups that have requested the right to protest. The city countered by offering the group a three-hour evening rally on the same day, Aug. 22, at Park 578, the closest city park to the United Center. But Shechter said in late July that the group was struggling to get in contact with city officials and was frustrated by a permitting process she said was difficult to navigate. On Monday, she said her group was still trying to get in contact with the city and will share details about its rally when a permit is issued. In court on Monday, Williams asked that the four groups he represents the U.S. Palestinian Community Network, Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, the Anti-War Committee and Students for a Democratic Society at UIC also be allowed to rally in Park 578. City attorneys had previously signaled they would allow the groups to use a stage at the park for speeches, Williams said in court. But those plans were put into question last week when the city announced a new permitting process for rallies in the park, he said. City attorney Andrew Worseck told the judge that Chicago authorities never agreed to permit the rally in the park and had only previously discussed tentative positions, tentative thinking. We did not make promises that there would be stages in any park. We did not make promises that there would be port-a-potties in any park, he said. This is just a blatant misrepresentation of those talks. Worseck argued the protesters bid to march along Washington Boulevard through an intersection that is set to be blocked by a security checkpoint is not workable. Williams countered that moving the march route onto side streets would cause a logjam and lead to potentially dangerous confrontations between protesters and police. The city has tried to negotiate a fair route that balances First Amendment rights with security concerns and traffic disruptions, Worseck said, citing a confidential conference between the two sides and changes from the initial route proposed by the city. We are now two weeks away from the convention. The city is entitled to put down its pen, he said. But Williams told the judge that the city has unfairly pushed back against compromises at every step after rejecting protesters initial applications, when it offered a two-block route through Grant Park, far away from the conventions hotspots. He predicted the pro-Palestinian protest scheduled for the first day of the convention could draw as many as 25,000 people. While Wood said she would share a ruling on the protesters requests soon, she declined to block the citys new permitting process for demonstrations at Park 578. On Monday night, lawmakers in Nassau County voted to ban masks in public, despite an ongoing COVID-19 wave occurring across the country. The move is part of a growing crackdown on masks in response to pro-Palestinian protests. Unless someone has a medical condition or a religious imperative, people should not be allowed to cover their face in a manner that hides their identity when in public, said County Executive Bruce Blakeman. In response, the New York Civil Liberties Union condemned the vote. Nassau Countys mask ban is a dangerous misuse of the law to score political points and target protestors, NYCLU said. Barring people who speak out from protecting themselves and their identities puts their health and well-being in danger, particularly people with disabilities, people of color, and those with unpopular views. The organization added: With COVID-19 on the rise across Long Island, face coverings are critical to protecting the health of an individual, their family, and their community. Those who violate the mask ban can face a fine of $1,000 or jail time.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there high levels of viral activity of the coronavirus in wastewater nationwide. Specifically, in New York, cases have been on the rise over the last 45 days. The disease has also spread rapidly through the Olympics games, coinciding with a surge across the globe. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Oregons new law to recriminalize the possession of small amounts of illegal drugs will go into effect in less than a month, leaving counties across the state in a scramble to prepare their resources. But while Multnomah County will receive state funding to create deflection programs that usher drug users toward treatment instead of jail, Clackamas County was told they would not receive the same funding. Level 3 Go Now evacuation orders in place near Madras for Elk Lane Fire sparked by lightning storm Clackamas is the third largest county in the state only smaller than Multnomah County and Washington counties. Despite its size, the county will not have the money for a deflection program when HB 4002 goes into effect Sept. 1, as first reported by Willamette Week. District Attorney John Wentworth shared the following statement with KOIN 6 News: Years before HB4002 was enacted, Clackamas County developed a program to deflect those suffering from drug addiction away from the criminal justice system and into treatment. Our program was successful. We know what works. Measure 110 destroyed that program. A committee made up of members from outside our county are now saying they know better than we do what works in Clackamas County. We are the third most populous county, but six counties were offered more money than we were to stand up their programs. We submitted a proposal for a program that aligns with HB 4002, and created the best program we could with the funds we were given based on our past success. The denial of funding means we will not have a deflection program in Clackamas County. Boat propeller injury kills man wakeboarding in Columbia River A deflection program is meant to allow someone found with drugs to be connected with treatment options rather than go to jail, but a state criminal justice committee that decides whether a county gets money for a deflection program ruled that Clackamas Countys plan was not really deflection. Rather, they said it was more diversion directing those caught with drugs to community court and using pending legal charges to encourage people to get treatment. Wentworth said the county will have to prosecute offenders before even offering treatment without the option of a deflection program. However, Clackamas County intends to appeal the decision. The county commission will discuss next steps at a meeting on Tuesday. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden revealed on Monday that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas had failed to disclose even more flights aboard a private jet owned by Republican mega-donor Harlan Crow than were previously known. In a letter to an attorney representing Crow, the Oregon Democrat also demanded travel and financial records related to Crows superyacht, the Michaela Rose, and the relationship between the justice and his billionaire benefactor. Crows legal team has repeatedly avoided providing such records, but Wyden said they could help determine whether the real estate mogul claimed business deductions on personal trips aboard luxury craft including those with Thomas to evade taxes. On several occasions, I have asked directly how many times Justice Thomas traveled aboard the Michaela Rose and private jets paid for by Mr. Crow, and whether Mr. Crow deducted the costs of these particular trips on tax filings. These should not be difficult questions to answer, Wyden wrote to the attorney. The possibility that Mr. Crow may have lavished secret gifts on a sitting Supreme Court justice and then impermissibly reduced his taxable income by millions of dollars with impunity requires legislative scrutiny. A spokesperson for the Supreme Court did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment. A spokesperson for Crow told The New York Times that Wydens inquiries have no legal basis and that the real estate mogul has always followed applicable tax law. Another day another undisclosed trip Clarence Thomas took on a billionaire's private jet https://t.co/nWNZh7A2Ln Ron Wyden (@RonWyden) August 5, 2024 Wydens committee has opened an inquiry into Crow and Thomas financial relationship as top Democrats work to bring major ethics reform to the Supreme Court. Reports that multiple justices failed to disclose luxury gifts and travel from ultrarich benefactors have led Democrats, including President Joe Biden, to call for term limits and a code of conduct that is enforceable. A ProPublica investigation last year showed that Thomas accepted at least two luxury trips in 2019 from Crow that were not included in financial disclosure forms. The veteran conservative justice claimed he did not know he had to disclose gifts of personal hospitality from friends who did not have cases before the high court, but he amended his forms to confirm those two trips in his annual financial disclosure in June. But just a week after that annual disclosures release, the Senate Judiciary Committee found that Thomas failed to disclose at least three additional trips on Crows private jet from 2017 to 2021. That information was provided to the committee by Crow himself in response to a subpoena. And in Mondays letter, Wyden said his committee found yet another undisclosed trip funded by the political mega-donor. According to international flight records from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Thomas took a round trip from Hawaii to New Zealand aboard Crows private jet with his wife, Ginni Thomas, who is a conservative activist, and Crow himself. The three first flew on Nov. 19, 2010, and returned on Nov. 27. Despite Thomas having amended past records to disclose the luxury travel that Crow provided, the justice never revised his 2010 form to include the international private jet trips he took that year. In addition to the New Zealand flights, Wydens letter included reports that Thomas joined Crow on trips to Greece, Russia and the Baltics via private jet. None of those trips is in Thomas financial disclosure forms. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), shown here at a May 2 Senate Energy Committee hearing, is asking billionaire Harlan Crow more questions about luxury travel provided for Justice Clarence Thomas. Mariam Zuhaib/Associated Press The fact a Supreme Court justice accepted free travel to Russia paid for by a billionaire and failed to disclose the trip as required by law is undoubtedly concerning and merits continued investigation, Wyden wrote. Other government officials have been charged for making false statements on financial disclosures for less serious violations than the evidence suggests Justice Thomas committed. Thomas has accepted at least $4 million in gifts since becoming a Supreme Court justice three decades ago, according to Fix the Court, a judicial reform nonprofit. That number is nearly 10 times the combined value of all gifts received by his colleagues during the same period. Supreme Court justices should not be accepting gifts, let alone the hundreds of freebies worth millions of dollars theyve received over the years, Gabe Roth, the executive director of Fix the Court, said in a June 6 statement. The ethics crisis at the Court wont begin to abate until justices adopt stricter gift acceptance rules, Roth said. Related... Clarence Thomas took more trips on his wealthy buddys private jet that he never disclosed, senator says Previously undisclosed trips by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and wealthy friend Harlan Crow have been unearthed. Its the latest in questionable practices by the justice who has taken millions in gifts and benefits from Republican friends - but has been defiant in his refusal to leave the bench or step down from cases with a potential conflict of interest. The New York Times revealed Monday that Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Oreg.) detailed in a letter a previously undisclosed trip Thomas and his wife, Virginia, took on Crows private jet between Hawaii and New Zealand. The letter was written to Crows attorney demanding more information about the relationship between Crow and the justice. I am deeply concerned that Mr. Crow may have been showering a public official with extravagant gifts, then writing off those gifts to lower his tax bill, Wyden wrote in the letter. Wyden, who chairs the Senate Finance Committee, is spearheading the investigation into Crow and Thomas. Democrats - including President Joe Biden - have called for massive Supreme Court reforms including a code of Ethics and term limits. Thomas did not respond to the Timess request for comment on the letter. A senator says he has unearthed a new trip that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas took with his wife, Ginni, on a wealthy friends private plane that was not disclosed. (REUTERS) The justice, first appointed by George H. W. Bush in 1991, has recently faced a firestorm as details of his gifts and concerns about his and wifes political leanings have become public. Virginia, known as Ginni, has been under the microscope since it was revealed she pleaded with officials to overturn the results of the 2020 election where Biden defeated Republican Donald Trump. Thomas received $2.4m in gifts between January 2004 and December 2023, according to a report. That was compared to his other eight colleagues on the Supreme Court, who received a combined $600,000 in gifts in that same span. Many of the gifts were not detailed on the required disclosure forms. Texas-born Crow is a real estate mogul and a major donor to conservative efforts. He has been connected to many gifts and benefits to Thomas, which have raised questions about whether Thomas can be impartial in some cases. So far, Thomas has not given any indication he is willing to recuse himself from such cases. Harlan Crow (pictured) provided many of the gifts that Thomas and his wife received, according to reports. (AP) Thomas said he did not believe he needed to disclose the gifts of personal hospitality from friends who had no cases before the countrys highest court. However, federal law requires disclosures from each justice. A spokesman for Crow told the Times the businessman had already responded to the senators investigation and the letter was to harass a private citizen. We consider this matter settled and refer Senator Wyden to our previous correspondence, the statement to the Times read. The newest alleged trip was not included on Thomas 2010 disclosure, according to the Times. To date, Justice Thomas has never disclosed this private jet travel on any financial disclosure forms, even though Justice Thomas has amended disclosures to reflect other international travel on Mr. Crows private jet, the senator noted in the letter. Wyden also stated that Thomas and Crow went on trips to Greece, Russia and the Baltics - none of which were reported on disclosure forms. The letter claims Crow has refused to provide all information on travels with Thomas and it was a final opportunity to disclose the information. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas took several more undisclosed trips on a private jet and super-yacht owned by Harlan Crow, a billionaire Republican donor, Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) revealed in a letter sent to Crows attorneys on Monday. According to the Oregon senator, flight records confirm that Thomas and his wife, Republican strategist Ginni Thomas, flew to New Zealand from Hawaii and back on Harlan Crows private jet in 2010. Wydens office asked Crow to provide more information about dozens of flights Thomas allegedly took on the jetincluding multiple short hops between Washington, D.C. and New York City. Wyden also said that a relative of Justice Thomas stated he vacationed onboard Crows 162-foot super-yacht, the Michaela Rose, on several other trips, including trips to the Caribbean, the Baltic states, and Russiawhere he also allegedly traveled by helicopter. The fact a Supreme Court Justice accepted free travel to Russia paid for by a billionaire and failed to disclose the trip as required by law is undoubtedly concerning and merits continued investigation, Wyden wrote. Other government officials have been charged for making false statements on financial disclosures for less serious violations than the evidence suggests Justice Thomas committed. Justice Neil Gorsuch Warning Biden Shows He Thinks Hes Untouchable The Oregon senators letter said he was concerned Crow was involved in a scheme to avoid paying taxes by claiming business deductions on personal travel. A representative for Crow told the New York Times that Wydens inquiries had no legal basis and the letter was intended to harass a private citizen. Thomas, who was nominated by former President George H.W. Bush in 1990, came under fire after a ProPublica investigation in 2023 first revealed he took multiple trips on a private jet owned by Crow. Thomas also vacationed with Crow in Indonesia on the Michaela Rose in 2019. The investigative outlet estimated it would have cost about $500,000 to charter a yacht the size of the Michaela Rose. Thomas claimed the trips were personal hospitality from close personal friends, and initially insisted he did not have to report them on his disclosure forms. The public outcry after Thomas trips were reported has contributed to growing calls to enforce the ethics code in place for Supreme Court justices. Last week, President Joe Biden proposed reforms to the high court which would include a binding code of conduct and 18-year term limits for justices. Thomas eventually updated his disclosure forms to include the trip to Indonesia, but the trips to New Zealand and Russia were never officially disclosed. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. A clogged chute in a ballot drop box might have deterred some would-be voters, but Whatcom County elections officials said they fixed the situation quickly Monday night, the day before ballots are due in todays Washington state primary election. Auditor Stacy Henthorn told The Bellingham Herald that elections officials learned that voters couldnt place their ballots in the official drop box south of the County Courthouse about 6 p.m. Monday. A police officer was at the ballot drop box directing voters to use the second open slot designated for walk-ups. As soon as we were notified, a team of two election staff, Amy Grasher and Morgan Kalkwarf, arrived at the courthouse ballot box to investigate the situation. They found the ballot box was not full, however the chute where voters drop their ballots was clogged. The team unclogged the chute and we are working on a solution so this doesnt occur again, Henthorn said in an email. Henthorn said that voters can check the status of their ballot at votewa.gov. Ballots are due at 8 p.m. in Washingtons all-mail primary election, where the two candidates with the most votes advance to the Nov. 5 general election. To be valid, ballots must be postmarked not simply mailed by 8 tonight. Elections officials suggest using one of the 21 official ballot drop boxes scattered across Whatcom County instead of the U.S. mail this close to the symbolic poll-closing time. According to data from the state Secretary of States Office, 19% of Whatcom Countys 162, 430 voters had returned their ballots through Monday. Only two Whatcom County races have attracted more than two candidates, the one for 2nd District U.S House, and for the 42nd District House Position 1. BEIJING, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday held phone talks with Jordan's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Ayman Safadi at his request, focusing on exchanging views on the situation in the Middle East. Safadi said that the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has further escalated tensions in the Middle East and the situation is very dangerous, adding that Jordan believes that the escalation of the conflict will not benefit any side, but only result in multiple losses. He noted that the international community should take immediate action to avoid the escalation of the conflict, stop violations of international law, achieve a ceasefire in Gaza as soon as possible, and ultimately achieve the independence of Palestine as a sovereign state through the two-state solution. Noting that China has always maintained an objective and fair position on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict issue, Safadi said that Jordan is willing to maintain communication with China and expects and believes that China will play a more important role in promoting a ceasefire and stopping the war. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China firmly opposes and strongly condemns the assassination, which has violated the basic norms of international relations, infringed on Iran's sovereignty, undermined the ceasefire negotiation process in Gaza, and led to further escalation of the regional situation. He pointed that the key to avoiding the deterioration and escalation of the situation is to achieve a full and permanent ceasefire in Gaza as soon as possible and the international community should make a more consistent voice on this issue and form a joint force. Speaking highly of Jordan's important role in resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and achieving peace in the Middle East, Wang said that China is willing to maintain communication and coordination with Jordan to jointly promote relevant parties to proceed from the overall peace situation, refrain from taking actions that escalate the situation, and resume ceasefire negotiations as soon as possible. China will continue to stand firm with Arab countries, support all efforts that are conducive to achieving a permanent and full ceasefire in Gaza, avoid further escalation of conflicts and confrontations, and promote the easing of the situation in the Middle East as soon as possible, Wang added. A Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department officer is accused of threatening to release private, intimate pictures of someone. Officer Joel Medina was arrested Monday and charged with one count of felony extortion and one count of felony disclosure of private images. Former Cheraw police officer charged with sexual extortion, misconduct in office Detectives interviewed Medina on Monday before arresting him and taking him to jail. A Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer was arrested and charged with one count of felony extortion and one count of felony disclosure of private images. Detectives interviewed Officer Joel Medina on Monday before arresting him and taking him to jail. According to a warrant, in February, a 22-year-old man said Medina sent him a message over a social media platform telling the victim to send him $10,000 or he would send sexually explicit photos/videos of the victim... To his friends and family. Police say the victim didnt comply. Then in March, according to the warrant, Medina sent sexually explicit video of the victim, along with another subject, performing sexual acts... To a friend of the victim. The incident occurred outside of work and did not involve the functions of his job, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said. Medina is on unpaid administrative leave pending the outcome of a parallel internal investigation. He was scheduled for a court appearance on Tuesday but didnt show up for the hearing. Instead, he was appointed a public defender. Its unfathomable I find it disgusting, said South Carolina Rep. Brandon Guffey. Guffey represents York County. His 17-year-old son, Gavin, died by suicide in 2022 after being a victim of sexual extortion. He cant believe the allegations against Medina, especially knowing his oath to protect and serve. To have someone who the public is supposed to have trust in to be, you know, extorting a citizen, its unfathomable to me, he said. Guffey, who always keeps his sons memory in the forefront, just wants people to understand the cost of sextortion and to protect whoever they can. Whenever you send these images, there are tons of people who are just trying to scam you so they can threaten to ruin your life by sharing these images, he said. I am disheartened by the recent arrest of Officer Medina, said CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings in a news release. An officers arrest is not just a personal failure but a breach of public trust. The trust of our community is paramount, and we will not tolerate any conduct that undermines that trust. Im proud of the diligent and thorough work by our detectives who investigated this case. Our badge gives us the authority to enforce the law, not immunity from the law. This arrest is a necessary step to ensure accountability and uphold the integrity of our department. Medina was hired on Feb. 28, 2022, and is assigned to the Eastway Division. (WATCH BELOW: Body cameras capture what led up to Pineville officer killing man) CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A criminal investigation is underway for CMPD Officer Joel Medina. According to Charlotte-Mecklenburg police, Medina is being charged with one count of felony extortion and one count of felony disclosure of private images. On Monday, Officer Medina was taken into custody and transported to the Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office following an interview by CMPDs Special Victims Division. According to the arrest warrant, Medina allegedly threatened the victim with the intent to wrongfully obtain $10,000 from the victim by threatening to send sexually explicit videos/photos to the victims family and friends. Medina allegedly disclosed the images and videos without the victims consent. Officer Medina was hired on February 28, 2022, and was assigned to the Eastway Division. Chief Jennings released a statement saying, I am disheartened by the recent arrest of Officer Medina. An officers arrest is not just a personal failure but a breach of public trust. The trust of our community is paramount, and we will not tolerate any conduct that undermines that trust. Im proud of the diligent and thorough work by our detectives who investigated this case. Our badge gives us the authority to enforce the law, not immunity from the law. This arrest is a necessary step to ensure accountability and uphold the integrity of our department. Officer Medina is currently on unpaid administrative leave pending the outcome of the internal investigation. This is a Developing Story . Check back for updates Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. Homer, Alaska (FOX 44) The U.S. Coast Guard has confirmed the identities of a Troy family missing since Saturday, when a small boat they were on capsized in the waters off Alaska. CPO Travis Magee of Coast Guard District 17 Public Affairs said those missing were David and Mary Maynard, and children Colton and Brantley Maynard. CPO Magee said the Coast Guard received a report about 7 p.m. Saturday that a 28-foot aluminum vessel with eight people aboard was taking on water about 16 miles west of Homer, Alaska. The Coast Guard issued a radio broadcast to notify area vessels of the situation and the vessel Salty Sea arrived on the scene and rescued four people from a life raft. The Coast Guard directed the launch of multiple assets to search for the other four missing people, including two 29-foot Response Boats, the Coast Guard Cutter Naushon along with a Jayhawk helicopter and a C-130J from Coast Guard Air Station in Kodiak, Alaska. Coast Guard reported that Alaska State Troopers and several Good Samarian vessels assisted with the search efforts, but that after searching nearly 24 hours, the search was suspended pending the development of new information. The Coast Guard issued the following statement: The decision to suspend a search is never easy and involves the careful consideration of many factors including environmental conditions and search operations. Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends, and loved ones of the missing people during this unimaginably difficult time. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. Coast hit-and-run victim identified. Authorities ask for publics help in finding driver A Gulfport man died Monday after a hit-and-run in Harrison County, the Sheriffs Department said. The Department said deputies were called at 2:57 a.m. Monday to Orange Grove Road near Azalea Trace. They found a deceased man lying in the middle of the road who appeared to have been hit by a car, a news release said. Harrison County coroner Brian Switzer identified the man as 38-year-old Patrick Howard III. Authorities said there were no cars at the scene. The person who called the Sheriffs Department saw no cars either, the news release said. Police said the hit-and-run occurred between 2 am. and 3 a.m. on Orange Grove Road in the area of Azalea Trace. The Harrison County Sheriffs Department and Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers are asking for the publics help to identify the driver and the car. The Sheriffs Department asks anyone with information to call Mississippi Gulf Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-877-787-5898 or the Harrison County Sheriffs Office at 228-897-1364. (Getty Images) Over two-thirds of adults in Colorado delayed or went without health care over the past year because it was too expensive, a recent survey from the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative found. In total, seven out of 10 Coloradans either went without care, became uninsured or struggled to pay medical bills due to high costs, even as the state works to enact policy around health care price transparency and savings. What we continue to hear from consumers is that this issue isnt going away and that there is more to be done, CCHI Deputy Director Adam Fox said during a Monday briefing with reporters. CCHI is a nonprofit that advocates on behalf of consumers for improved health care access. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The survey, part of Healthcare Value Hubs Consumer Healthcare Experience State Survey, included over 1,400 adults and was conducted online from March 26 to April 12. Researchers said the Colorado results are similar to ones in other states. The top forgone types of care were missing a doctors visit, skipping dental care, cutting pills in half or skipping doses, and going without a recommended test or treatment. The reality is health care costs continue to rise ... As weve seen other areas of cost increase whether thats cost of living, housing, food it just makes the health care affordability issue that much more prevalent in peoples minds because theyre having to make some really difficult decisions. CCHI Deputy Director Adam Fox The rate of delayed care and related affordability worry is highest among Hispanic Coloradans and people who make less than $75,000 per year. It is also highest in the metro Denver area, but is similarly seen in eastern and western Colorado. The reality is health care costs continue to rise, Fox said. As weve seen other areas of cost increase whether thats cost of living, housing, food it just makes the health care affordability issue that much more prevalent in peoples minds because theyre having to make some really difficult decisions. One respondent told surveyors they could not afford HIV prevention treatment after an assault. Another shared that they need to replace multiple dental fillings but their insurance only covers the cost for one. Someone else said they are putting off a medical test because they are worried about the treatment cost implications if it comes back positive. One respondent who is covered by Health First Colorado wrote that they avoid medical care in general because of the unexpected costs. Colorado lawmakers have passed various health care price transparency and savings measures in recent years, including a 2023 law that requires Medicare rates to be posted on a hospitals website and another that limits when a hospital can charge facility fees. The survey found bipartisan support for several transparency policies, such as requiring drug companies to notify and justify price increases, requiring the government to show what a procedures fair price should be and price caps on certain life-saving medications. Weve done a lot of work at the state level to put in a variety of reforms, Fox said. The election may determine what can be accomplished at the state and federal level, and thats going to shape the policy priorities. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST The Colorado River flows through Ruby and Horsethief canyons area near Mack, June 9, 2023. The railroad is at left. (William Woody for Colorado Newsline) Colorados attorney general recently left open the possibility he will take a formal role in a case before the U.S. Supreme Court to help block a proposal that would send a massive surge of oil trains along the Colorado River. Attorney General Phil Weiser last week expressed disappointment that the court in June agreed to review Eagle Countys 2023 appellate court win, which derailed the proposed Uinta Basin Railway project in Utah. The project would likely result in a dramatic increase in hazardous oil shipments traveling through the Colorado mountains and Denver toward Gulf Coast refineries. The proposed plan to run two-mile-long trains filled with hundreds of thousands of barrels of waxy crude oil along the Colorado River daily poses an extreme risk to this critical water source and the communities, industries, and farmers that rely on it, Weiser wrote in an email statement to Colorado Newsline. This proposal was rightfully tossed out by an appellate court. I am presently considering all options to protect the Colorado River that includes weighing in with the U.S. Supreme Court as it reviews the case. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit last year ruled the U.S. Surface Transportation Board, which is the primary federal regulatory agency overseeing U.S. rail projects, erred under the National Environmental Policy Act and ordered the agency to fix significant problems with the proposed 88-mile rail spurs environmental impact statement. The appeals court found the STB failed to properly weigh both the upstream and downstream impacts of oil production, including accident data, downline fire risks and the impact to endangered fish from predicted oil spills in the Colorado River. The seven Utah counties surrounding the Uinta Basin oil fields, which formed the Seven County Infrastructure Coalition, petitioned the Supreme Court to hear the case in March. The Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County case will be heard during the high courts next session, which begins in October. Weiser a former Supreme Court clerk to justices Byron White and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, former dean of the University of Colorado law school, and former U.S. Justice Department attorney in the anti-trust division has been one of the top state officials critical of the Uinta Basin Railway project. I am disappointed the Supreme Court heard (the Uinta Basin) case. We won an important decision, Weiser said in a phone interview last week. I have been a vocal critic of the idea of taking what seems to me a high-risk move through a fragile ecosystem by allowing there to be the shipping of oil in railway cars that could lead to the sort of ecological harms weve seen happen elsewhere. I'm worried about all of our environmental statutes if the mindset is, How do we gut any environmental protections?' We as a society are going pay a price for that, whether that's coming from the Supreme Court or a second Trump administration. Phil Weiser, Colorado attorney general Weiser points to the environmental devastation of Norfolk Southern railroads East Palestine, Ohio, chemical train derailment last year. It doesnt take much for a single incident to create extraordinary and lasting damage, and that, too, is a good basis for prohibiting (the Uinta Basin) project for going forward, so well continue to make that case, Weiser said. I worry that a Supreme Court that is not interested in protecting our land, air and water could be less sympathetic to this point. We did see that lack of sympathy in the case involving the Clean Water Act. In last years Sackett v. the Environmental Protection agency case, decades of federal wetlands protections under the Clean Water Act were stripped away by the court, forcing Colorado to stand up its own regulations after a compromise with Republicans in the state Legislature. Weiser said the only silver lining in that case was that conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh sided with the liberal minority, joining Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson in dissenting against the ruling. We were successful in that case with Justice Kavanaugh, but obviously we were still a vote short, Weiser said. Im worried about all of our environmental statutes if the mindset is, How do we gut any environmental protections? We as a society are going pay a price for that, whether thats coming from the Supreme Court or a second Trump administration. From an antitrust standpoint, Weiser says consolidation in the railroad industry has opened up new risks of harm, because less competition leads companies to be less committed to reliable, safe service and adequate staffing. While federal legislation is stalled, Colorado lawmakers took up the issue last session and set up a new state rail safety office. Part of the challenge from a competition standpoint is the Surface Transportation Board I believe has had the sole authority to evaluate mergers in rail, and theyve been willing to approve mergers in rail that really highly concentrated that industry, Weiser said, specifically referring to the U.S. Justice Department objecting to the Union Pacific merger with Southern Pacific in 1996. I think the system of oversight that does not allow the Justice Department to stop anti-competitive mergers is problematic, and its problematic that the Surface Transportation Board took action in this case and did not take the Department of Justice competition concerns more seriously, Weiser added. Now Union Pacific controls most east-west freight through Colorado and is currently negotiating with the state for a new lease at the state-owned Moffat Tunnel. Eagle County officials have said they hope the state will take a more active role in the Uinta Basin Railway battle going forward, citing $450,000 in legal fees. Democratic Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, in a rare statement on the Utah oil-train project, which has united the states Democratic lawmakers in opposition, said that if the Supreme Court greenlights the Uinta Basin Railway this fall, it will have profound implications across the West. Its a legal case that were following, of course, Polis said recently in Vail, as quoted in the Colorado Times Recorder. Were actively monitoring it. It would have a major impact on our state for sure, in terms of transportation. I dont have any say over it. Its not up to the governor. Its a pending court case, so were aggressively monitoring it, and it would have profound implications across the West. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Lawmakers greet each other in the Colorado House of Representatives on Jan. 9, 2023. (Sara Wilson/Colorado Newsline) Teens from the Colorado Youth Advisory Council presented to a state committee ideas that could turn into bills during the 2025 legislative session. The ideas included policy proposals related to naloxone distribution, accessibility and clean energy. The proposals were developed by committees within the COYAC. The group of teenagers on the council come from all over the state and range in age from 14 to 19. Students presented their ideas for the next session to the Legislatures Colorado Youth Advisory Council Committee last week. Previously the council has advocated legislation related to eating disorder mitigation and prevention, gender-affirming care and free menstrual products for students, among other policies that have become bills or law. The students on COYAC engage with state agencies and subject matter experts to determine the best ways to turn their policy ideas into reality. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Students suggested various ideas that could help schools save money on energy by installing solar panels, reduce waste by introducing student-led food waste reduction teams in school cafeterias, and increase access to school transportation given an ongoing shortage of school bus drivers. Another idea students suggested is a state-sponsored conference to educate high school students on the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. Students also suggested adding two youth representatives to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environments Environmental Justice Advisory Board, one of whom would come from a disproportionately impacted community. The youth of today are not waiting for tomorrow or someone else to save the planet, and allowing students into the conversation is the only way to empower the next generation to solve a problem we have been told our whole lives is our responsibility. Sophie Tipper, 16 The youth of today are not waiting for tomorrow or someone else to save the planet, and allowing students into the conversation is the only way to empower the next generation to solve a problem we have been told our whole lives is our responsibility, Sophie Tipper, a 16-year-old from Arapahoe County, said. Students will follow up with additional stakeholders to refine their ideas before the legislative committees next meeting on Aug. 15, when the committee is expected to narrow bill recommendations down to no more than six. The committee ultimately will choose no more than three bills to be considered for introduction by the end of its final meeting on Oct. 1. Distributing naloxone to prevent overdoses Makena James, a 17-year-old from Steamboat Springs who serves on the council, explained the disproportionate impact the opioid crisis has had on rural Colorado communities. She said the lack of access to naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal drug, is also more apparent in rural communities as well. Simply put, naloxone saves lives, James said. But for our rural youth and low-income communities, that life saving solution is out of financial or geographic reach. Suyash Shrestha, a 15-year-old from Thornton who serves on the council, proposed including naloxone in AED cabinets already located within secondary schools to increase accessibility for youth. He also suggested distributing naloxone to local businesses like coffee shops, convenience stores and restaurants to give away to members of the community free of charge. Availability of such an easy-to-use overdose treatment ensures that first responders can administer the medication as timely as possible, in addition to surrounding individuals in more complex circumstances, Shrestha said. Accessibility in schools Kate Glover, a 16-year-old at-large member of COYAC, started using a wheelchair in June 2023, and returned to school in August to start her sophomore year. She said shes always loved school, but the lack of accessibility made it difficult for her to return. For an entire school year, I wasnt able to independently enter my own school, Glover said. My happy place was somewhere that I couldnt get without other people helping me. She proposed the Legislature establish a proactive audit program so that school facilities are regularly inspected for Americans with Disabilities Act compliance. This can be done through a state contract with a third party, by hiring auditors as state employees, or training current facility inspectors on ADA requirements. The information that comes from these audits would then be shared publicly so families can make informed decisions about which schools are best suited for their students. Currently Glover said if a student has an accessibility issue, they have to take a reactive approach and talk to school leadership or file a formal complaint. For most people, you dont have to think about how to get into a door, about how to get out in an emergency, about what classrooms you can go to, about if you can eat in your own cafeteria, Glover said. Its not something that comes to mind until you cant. Youth health literacy Mia Portillo, an 18-year-old high school graduate and former member of the COYAC health care committee, is getting ready to go to college across the country, and shes struggled to navigate how her health care will change as she will need to find doctors to treat her kidney disease in a brand new state. Portillo said that the majority of what students learn comes from school, but school doesnt equip them with practical knowledge needed for daily life related to health care, insurance and finding doctors. She cited data from the Childrens Hospital of Colorado that found 30% of parents have a hard time understanding basic health care information, and nearly 50% have a hard time understanding medication labels. Portillo said health literacy is the ability to find, understand and use health information. If we concentrate our efforts in expanding health literacy resources, Coloradan youth will be better equipped to navigate the health care system as they grow older, Portillo said. Theyll be able to advocate for themselves, for their children and the people around them. Ranye Ezenekwe, a 17-year-old from Westminster who serves on COYAC, said the council wants the state to establish a Health Literacy Oversight Panel tasked with submitting questions related to health literacy to include in the Healthy Kids Colorado Survey. The panel would analyze data from the survey to determine areas for improvement, establish self-guided learning platforms to help students develop skills needed to advocate for their health, and advise the Colorado Department of Education on revisions to academic standards that would fulfill health literacy needs. The panel would also produce an annual report highlighting progress in different regions across the state, Ezenekwe said. Ezenekwe said the state could also provide health literacy educational resources in school-based health centers to help students learn about health insurance plan comparisons, public health, common medical scenarios and health advocacy. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST The pro-Palestine encampment is seen on the grounds of Columbia University in New York City on April 29. On Monday, five Columbia students filed a class action lawsuit against groups and politicians who "incited" the protests and impacted campus life for 36,000 students. Photo by Louis Lanzano/UPI Aug. 6 (UPI) -- Five Columbia students have filed a lawsuit against a dozen groups, as well as Democratic Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jamaal Bowman and Ilhan Omar, whom they claim encouraged anti-Israel protests at the Ivy League university earlier this year. In their lawsuit, the five anonymous students from the New York City campus said: "The Gaza Encampment was extreme and outrageous conduct. It was illegal. It violated university rules. Its occupants harassed, followed, physically blocked, intimidated and bullied Jewish students." "In a civilized community, one does not call for the obliteration of a major metropolitan area, praise terrorists or threaten death and destruction upon our classmates and their families, friends or co-religionists," the students said, according to court documents reported by the New York Post. The students, who said they chose to remain anonymous because they do not feel safe, claimed the two weeks of protests and encampments impacted their studies and life on campus as final exams and commencement were ultimately canceled. "Those were real damages sustained by the 36,000 students at Columbia who chose to obey university rules, go to class and pursue their education, only to be frustrated at the finish line by the ... acts of their classmates and professors, with the assistance and encouragement of outside activists," the students said. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez exits the campus of Columbia University after visiting the Pro-Palestinian encampment as Pro-Israeli counter-protesters hold a rally outside of Columbia University in New York on April 26. Ocasio-Cortez, along with Democratic Reps. Jamaal Bowman and Omar Ilhan are being sued by a group of Columbia students for "inciting" the protests. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI The lawsuit accuses the three lawmakers, referred to as the congressional "Squad," of showing up on the closed campus during the protests "and participating in the encampment." Ocasio-Cortez D-N.Y., Bowman, D-N.Y. and Omar, D-Minn., have not responded to the lawsuit. In April, Omar visited the Columbia encampment and demanded the university divest from companies that she said were helping Israel in its war with Hamas terrorists. While the lawsuit calls the protests "intimidating," Omar called them "joyful." "I had the honor of seeing the Columbia University anti-war encampment firsthand," Omar wrote in April in a post on X. "Contrary to right-wing attacks, these students were joyfully protesting for peace and an end to the genocide taking place in Gaza. I'm in awe of their bravery and courage." I had the honor of seeing the Columbia University anti-war encampment firsthand. Contrary to right-wing attacks, these students are joyfully protesting for peace and an end to the genocide taking place in Gaza. I'm in awe of their bravery and courage. pic.twitter.com/yC6hcBMwCP Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) April 25, 2024 Ocasio-Cortez warned New York City Mayor Eric Adams days later against using police to clear Hamilton Hall after protesters barricaded themselves inside the building. "If any kid is hurt tonight, responsibility will fall on the mayor and university presidents. Other leaders and schools have found a safe, de-escalatory path. This is opposite of leadership and endangers public safety," she posted on X. "A nightmare in the making." After New York City Police moved into Hamilton Hall on April 30, and arrested dozens of protesters at the request of the university, Bowman claimed demonstrators had been hurt. "Now I see that brutality being inflicted on peaceful students at Columbia and across the country. We must stand with our students to demand liberation for Palestinians and everyone in this world," the congressman said in a speech the following day. The students' lawsuit claims the three lawmakers acted as "cheerleaders" for the Columbia encampment and "not only consciously disregarded the rights of others, but the impact on the rights of others was the point of the protest: the more disruptions they could cause for the university and the students, the more leverage they thought they would have for their agenda." While Columbia University is not named in the lawsuit, other university groups are, including Columbia Students for Justice in Palestine, the Graduate Students Union and the Columbia/Barnard Chapter of the American Association of University Professors. The lawsuit also names the United Auto Workers, the People's Forum, Within Our Lifetime and the National Students for Justice in Palestine. BEIJING, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday held a phone conversation with Badr Abdelatty, Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that under the strategic guidance of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Egypt has achieved significant development and is at its best period in history. The two sides also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East. Wang said the assassination of Hamas Politburo Chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has pushed the regional situation into a more dangerous height, and China resolutely opposes and strongly condemns such assassination acts that violate the basic principles of the UN Charter, infringe on Iran's sovereignty and dignity, severely undermine efforts to promote peace, and make a ceasefire in Gaza increasingly unattainable. He also pointed out that China will strengthen solidarity with Arab countries, and work with all parties to avoid further escalation and deterioration of the situation. Abdelatty, for his part, said that Egypt highly appreciates China's important role in promoting peace in the Middle East, and is grateful for China's efforts in promoting internal reconciliation in Palestine. The Egyptian side hopes to maintain close cooperation with China to prevent further escalation of the situation, he added. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) An Old North bar with drinks, food and music called one of the best new restaurants has suddenly shut down less than a year after it opened. The Adelaides Gin Joint building at 2333 N. High St. is up for sale after the business recently closed, according to a real estate listing for the property. Adelaides has yet to confirm or give reason for the closure itself, with no statements published as of Tuesday to its social media accounts. (Courtesy Photo/Franklin County Auditors Office) Opened in October, Adelaides specialized in gin drinks, which included an option for customers to craft their own gin and tonic. The bar also offered beer, wine, cocktails and food options for those wanting a bite to eat. It was listed in Columbus Monthly as one of the best new restaurants of 2024. The other weed being legalized in Columbus thanks to a code fix Owned by married couple Rodrick Pauley and Laura Justice, Adelaides was opened as a modern, prohibition-inspired bar for customers to enjoy jazz in addition to food and drinks. Pauley is a classically trained trumpet player and the couple wanted music to be a focal point of the space. Now for sale, the 3,870-square-foot space has a patio, stage area, sound systems, restrooms, dining areas, kitchen, library room, 11 parking spots and more, according to the real estate listing. The property is listed at an asking price of $150,000. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. It took a decade, but the man who left a dead bear cub in Central Park finally fessed up in a social media post Sunday. Why now? Because he wanted to get ahead of a New Yorker profile that included the bear story. The magazine also obtained a photograph of the culprit posing with his fingers in the little creatures bloody mouth, pretending it was biting him. Maybe thats where I got my brain worm, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. joked to New Yorker writer Clare Malone. Listen, I get that Democrats are having a lot of fun calling former President Trump and his running mate, JD Vance, weird an insult popularized by the entirely-not-weird Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who became Kamala Harris running mate Tuesday. But Im not sure Trump and Vance can top Kennedy, the independent presidential candidate who is the very embodiment of Hunter S. Thompsons famous aphorism, When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro. Read more: Abcarian: Can Kamala Harris and an army of 'childless cat ladies' overcome Republicans' sexism? Weird barely begins to describe Kennedy, a dangerous demagogue who shamelessly trades on his family name, associates with far-right figures while masquerading as a liberal and lies to Americans about vaccines. No wonder his family has disavowed him. Jack Schlossberg, John F. Kennedys grandson, said on Instagram last month that his cousins candidacy is an embarrassment. Hes trading in on Camelot, celebrity, conspiracy theories and conflict for personal gain and fame, said Schlossberg, a Vogue politics writer. I have no idea why anyone thinks he should be president. Lets not be distracted, again, by someones vanity project. Kennedy seems to make news only when hes done something, well, weird. Read more: Column: The Supreme Court is out of control. Here's what it will take to rein it in The New York Times reported in May that Kennedy said doctors had found a dead parasitic worm in his brain in 2010, when he was experiencing brain fog and memory loss. He had originally disclosed that information in a deposition taken while he was seeking his second divorce, from Mary Richardson Kennedy. He testified that a worm got into my brain and ate a portion of it and then died, which was relevant to the divorce proceedings because he claimed his earning power had been diminished by the parasite. Around the same time, the Times reported, Kennedy also suffered from mercury poisoning, which can affect cognition, and atrial fibrillation, which he described in the divorce deposition as making him feel as if theres a bag of worms in my chest. Another recent report noted that Kennedy posed with the barbecued remains of what he eventually claimed was a goat during a 2010 trip to South America, though some veterinarians said the animal appeared to be a dog. But when youre generating news leads like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been forced to deny that he took a bite out of a dog carcass, how much do the details really matter? The New York Times published a puffy story in June about two wild ravens that Kennedy had sort of tamed at his Los Angeles home. The newspaper reported that the birds had succeeded his pet emu, Toby, who regularly attacked his wife, the actor Cheryl Hines, and was later killed by a mountain lion. Totally not weird, amirite? But back to the bear. In the video Kennedy posted, he is telling the story to Roseanne Barr, who received about 70,000 votes when she ran for president on the Peace and Freedom Party ticket in 2012. Its unclear why Barr was in the video, but my theory is that it was a meeting of the Weird Presidential Candidates Club. As Barr listens, Kennedy recounts the tale: On his way to a falconing outing in upstate New York, he saw a van hit the bear cub. He scooped up the carcass, intending to skin it and put the meat in his refrigerator later. But he was late for dinner at Peter Luger Steak House in New York City, so he didnt have time to stop at his home in Westchester County. Then dinner ran late, and he needed to get to the airport, so he hatched a plan: I said, Lets go put the bear in Central Park and well make it look like it got hit by a bike. It would be funny for people,' Kennedy said. He also explained, I wasnt drinking, of course, but people were drinking with me who thought this was a good idea. Harvesting road kill and dumping it in Central Park as a prank, he said, might have been a little bit of the redneck in me." Kennedy is a redneck the way Donald Trump Jr. is a blue-collar everyman. No, this was the behavior of a ragingly entitled scion of a rich and famous American clan. In any case, many headlines were generated when the inexplicable bear was discovered in the park the next day, including in this newspaper. The New York Times assigned a young environmental reporter named Tatiana Schlossberg to the story: Yes, another Kennedy unknowingly chronicled her cousins misadventure: Calls were made to a retired Bronx homicide commander, Vernon Gerberth, Schlossberg wrote. " 'It wouldn't be a police matter, he said, unless the bear was killed by a person, or if somebody was keeping it as a pet and brought it to the park. People are crazy.' " And, of course, weird. @robinkabcarian If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) Communities all across western Massachusetts will observe the 79th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on Tuesday. National Night Out: What is it and where can you celebrate in western Massachusetts? The bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki took place on August 6th and August 9th in 1945 during World War 2, with the U.S. becoming the only country to ever use nuclear weapons in wartime. According to icanw.org, by the end of 1945, about 140,000 people in Hiroshima were killed and about 74,000 lives in Nagasaki were also lost. Several remembrance events are scheduled to take place on Tuesday for the anniversary, according to Massachusetts Peace Action, including the following: 7:45 am Waltham Hiroshima/Nagasaki Vigil Main & Moody Sts. Waltham Concerned Citizens. 8 am Pittsfield 79 years since Hiroshima. Park Square. Berkshire Citizens for Peace and Justice. 9 am Greenfield Hiroshima/Nagasaki Commemoration. Town Common. Traprock Center for Peace and Justice 4:30 pm Springfield 79 Years Later, the Danger of Nuclear War is Greater than Ever City Hall, 36 Court St. Greater Springfield Campaign Nonviolence 6 pm Cambridge Hiroshima/Nagasaki Commemoration Friends Meeting at Cambridge, 5 Longfellow Park 7 pm Andover Commemoration Vigil Old Town Hall, 20 Main St. Merrimack Valley People for Peace 7 pm Worcester Screening of Silent Fallout, an award-winning documentary. Jean McDonough Arts Center, 20 Franklin St. Citizens for Nonviolent Solutions Latest Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Twenty-two Divvy bikes and e-bikes tangled in fencing and covered in mud were pulled out of Lake Michigan and piled on the lakefront this weekend. The sight was reminiscent of a scrap yard. But, small pieces of plastic are the most voluminous and concerning litter in the lake, according to the nonprofit Alliance for the Great Lakes. While these kinds of plastics are nearly invisible, the underwater accumulation of bikes was more apparent. Glenn Rischke a 50-year-old North Center resident and hairstylist first noticed them during his daily polar plunges this winter. On days where it was super calm and clear, we were able to see the bottom of the lake. And, as we were just walking up and down the ledge area near the Montrose bird sanctuary, it was undeniable that these bikes were in the water, he said. Divvys bikes, e-bikes and scooters have become prolific in Chicago since the Department of Transportation entered into an exclusive partnership with Lyft in 2019 to operate the bike-sharing system. There are over 800 stations and 15,000 bikes and scooters throughout the city as of May 2023. People are encouraged to report abandoned bikes to the citys 311 nonemergency system, said Transportation Department spokeswoman Erica Schroeder. Rischke, however, decided to take another approach. He formed the Alternative Anglers Association to retrieve bikes from the lake. The informal group of friends and strangers has collected over 60 since June, according to Rischke. On Saturday evening, they pulled 15 out of one 40-foot section along Oak Street Beach. The Transportation Department was unable to provide an estimate of how many Divvy bikes might be in the lake since water damages the geolocation devices on the bikes. These electric geolocation devices and the batteries that power the e-bikes compelled Rische to fish out the bikes. He expressed concern that they may be leaching chemicals into the lake and affecting drinking water. However, the citys Department of Water Management said the drinking water is not a concern. Given the size of Lake Michigan and the rigorous purification process that the Chicago Department of Water Management employs to treat the lake water, there are no concerns about the Divvy debris causing any drinking water concerns, said Megan Vidis, a spokeswoman for the department. Chicagos drinking water also does not come from the shore where the bikes were found. Its collected 2 miles offshore and then run through a purification system. This is done intentionally to avoid pollution from shoreline trash, said Vidis. The bikes are also only a small fraction of the pollution found in the lake. A recent study from the Alliance for the Great Lakes found that 86% of litter entering the Great Lakes annually is either partially or completely made of plastic. 86% of Great Lakes litter is plastic, a 20-year study shows. And the plastic is just getting smaller and smaller. While chemicals leaching from e-bike batteries is concerning, when it comes to large trash items, people are often surprised to learn that most trash in Lake Michigan is actually tiny pieces of plastic, said Alliance COO and Vice President for Programs Molly Flanagan. Plastics break down into smaller and smaller pieces, allowing them to travel easily and making them difficult to collect. The tiniest, known as microplastics, have been found in drinking water and human blood, according to the alliance study. Metal fencing was tangled with the bikes, revealing another type of trash that ends up in the lake. The piles of bikes created over the weekend have strengthened calls from Rischke, his association and their social media following for the city and Lyft to take responsibility for recovering Divvy bikes from Lake Michigan. If we didnt take those 60 bikes out of the lake, theyd still be there, he said. The pile of bikes was gone by Monday evening though, according to the associations social media. While Divvy operator Lyft could not be reached for comment, Divvy bikes retrieved from the water are generally repaired or deconstructed for parts, according to a Tuesday statement from the Transportation Department. The department is working with Lyft to make docking stations along the lakefront more accessible to deter riders from leaving their bikes in or near the water. They are also developing a plan to more proactively retrieve devices that end up in the lake, according to the Transportation Department statement. In the meantime, the Alternative Anglers Association will continue removing bikes from the lake. Were going to keep doing it because this is our lake too. But, the point is, we shouldnt have to, Rischke said. Chicago Tribunes Sylvan Lebrun contributed. LAKE ISABELLA, Calif. (KGET) The Borel Fire left its mark on the Kern County mountains caught in its path. A massive burn scar serves as a reminder of the destruction, and the impact to those who lost everything, including Jerry Harter. I cant explain. I dont know what words to use, but its bad. Its sad, he said. A team of officials held a community meeting at Woodrow Wallace Middle School on Sunday to update the residents on the status of Kerns biggest wildfire in history. More than 80 residents showed up including Harter and his daughter. Harter lost his home in Havilah. He moved there in 1997. He couldnt afford insurance. I dont know what else to say really, Harter said. Fire officials report no loss of life in Havilah and no one is reported missing. Veronica Harter is thankful her brother is still alive. My little brother was in the fire, and he got burned on his shoulders, his arms. Some on his ears, but thank God his lungs are okay. Officials say more than 1,500 personnel are assigned to the fire. Theyve used every county asset stretching resources thin. Now, theyre focused on the fire threat on the far east. Elissa Beckham lost her home to the flames. All the windows are melted out of my house. My childrens bedroom has no window, Beckham said. Their bedroom was filled with smoke. Their walls are damaged. Their beds are ruined. Their toys are trashed. Basically, everything inside of our house is garbage. Beckham shared concerns for her four kids who go to school in Lake Isabella because the shelters are too far away. Two of them have special needs. One is blind. How does that look for us, and what does a displaced family who has special [education] students, she said. How are they supposed to maintain all their services? Fire officials are now focused on the recovery phase as they continue work to get the Borel Fire fully contained. Theyre using FEMA funds to fight the fire, while residents wait for the damage assessment to get the federal funds they need to rebuild whats lost. One heart one Havilah, Beckham said. Were gonna make it, you know. As a small community there with big hearts for each other. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17. Kristian Carranza speaks at the Lady Bird Breakfast during the Texas Democratic Convention in El Paso on June 8, 2024. Carranza is the Democratic candidate for state House District 118 in San Antonio. Credit: Justin Hamel for The Texas Tribune In one of the most competitive statehouse races of the year, the Bexar County GOP accused Democrat Kristian Carranza of coopting a Hispanic surname to appeal to the San Antonio districts largely Hispanic population. Kris Coons, chair of the Bexar County Republican Party, said during a news conference Tuesday that Carranza had crossed out the last name Thompson on a 2023 voter registration application and replaced it with Carranza a month before she filed to run for office. Carranza, whose legal last name was Thompson, officially changed her name in January 2023, but she has gone by Carranza professionally for at least a decade. Carranza is facing off against state Rep. John Lujan, a San Antonio Republican, to represent House District 118 this November. It wasnt until she moved into a proud Hispanic district to run for office that she suddenly changed her name to Carranza, Coons said. The residents of this district should not be fooled but somewhat insulted by such an action. Nearly two-thirds of the people living in House District 118 are Hispanic, according to state records. A press release Monday initially stated the party would file a legal challenge to Carranzas candidacy. On Tuesday, Coons said party officials are still reviewing a potential lawsuit against Carranza, but did not have an answer when asked about what law she violated. Carranza denied that she changed her name for political expediency and said the allegation was another show of disrespect for women from Texas Republicans. Its disrespectful to women across San Antonio and our country who change their names all the time for so many reasons, she said in an interview with The Texas Tribune. Carranza said the Bexar County GOP was taking a page from former President Donald Trump, who last week questioned whether Vice President Kamala Harris, whose father is Jamaican and mother is from India, had only recently decided to identify as Black to appeal to voters. Kristian Carranza's Texas voter registration application reflecting her legal surname name change from Thompson to Carranza. Credit: Acquired from Bexar County GOP This is an obvious attempt to undermine me and my story because they can clearly see that the voters of House District 118 are ready for change and ready for someone whos going to roll their sleeves and fight for them, not stand on the sidelines like John Lujan has, Carranza said, referring to the incumbent Republican state representative. They just cant believe that that person is a young Latina. Carranza, born and raised in the Southside of San Antonio, was given her biological fathers surname Thompson at birth. But because she was raised by a single mother, without the support of her father, Carranza said she uses her mothers last name to honor her. Carranza began the process to legally change her last name in 2022 and that process was completed in January 2023, according to court records. She launched her state House campaign in September 2023. She has used the surname Carranza in public for around a decade. She was already going by that name in 2019 when she was Nevada state director for Julian Castros presidential campaign. One of her superiors from a 2015 Affordable Care Act enrollment campaign, Kevin Puleo, also told the Tribune that her colleagues knew her as Carranza then. In a resume from 2016, Carranza identified herself as Kristian Carranza Thompson. Ferguson Yacyshyn, a Democratic operative who met Carranza when they both worked on the Hillary Clinton campaign in Florida, also said she went by Carranza then. It just seems, after 30 years, right before her race, that the name gets changed, thats all were questioning, Coons said. Responding to the claim in a statement, Carranza wrote: Mi nombre es Kristian Carranza and, like it or not, Im running to stand up for San Antonio families. In a statement, Lujan said Carranza changed her name for political reasons. This situation involving a name change for political reasons is not acceptable, and its important that all public figures remain accountable to the people they seek to represent, Lujan said. While my opponent will need to address this issue directly with the voters, I want to reiterate my own commitment to transparency and effective representation as the State Representative for District 118. This is not the first time the voter registration application with the crossed out name has been used against Carranza. During her primary race, her Democratic opponent Carlos Quezada also put the document on a campaign mailer. Lujan was first elected to House District 118 in 2016 in a special election but lost it in the November general election. He was re-elected to the seat in November 2021. The race between Lujan and Carranza is one of the few potential flips for Democrats this year. Carranza has raised impressive amounts of money in her race to take back a seat that had traditionally been held by Democrats. She raised $264,000 to Lujans $70,000 in the last fundraising cycle which ended in June. The Texas Tribune answering reader questions about 2024 elections. To share your question or feedback with us, you can fill out this form. The full program is now LIVE for the 2024 Texas Tribune Festival, happening Sept. 57 in downtown Austin. Explore the program featuring more than 100 unforgettable conversations on topics covering education, the economy, Texas and national politics, criminal justice, the border, the 2024 elections and so much more. See the full program. Beachgoers lined up along the Gulf of Mexico near Perdido Beach Access #2, on Monday. Many come from out-of-state, including one man who sat in the sand close to the water in front of La Riva condominium complex in an area that, until last year, had been private property. I would say restricting (beach front property) is ridiculous, said the visitor, who is not staying at La Riva. It would affect me coming down here because my brother is retired Navy, and they live just a couple miles down. La Rivas condo association is one of six associations on Perdido Key involved in a lawsuit against Escambia County that is asking the court to determine if a 75-foot public easement on the beach in front of their property is, in fact, valid. Escambia County implemented the 75-foot public easement, last year, after the original deeds to 64 beach front lots was discovered. The wording on the nearly 70-year-old public documents indicates the U.S. government, which originally owned the land before selling it, intended for those portions of Perdido Key beaches to remain open to the public. Prior to the discovery of the deeds, the public was barred from what some owners considered private beach property, which starts where the dry sand begins, and the public was restricted to the area around the water line. Attorney Robert Powell with Morehead Law Group is part of the team legal representing different condo owners with the six condo associations La Riva III, Portico, Mirabella, Ocean Breeze, the Palms of Perdido, and Windemere. Powell said hes confident the law is on their side. While we understand there are different views on the subject, ultimately this comes down to these homeowners exercising their constitutional right to obtain a court ruling about the validity of the easement that was supposedly created in 1957, if these folks bargained for private beach ownership, said Powell. Florida law favors the marketability of title to real property, and it provides a vehicle to resolve disputes of this very nature that involve somewhat ancient claims or interests that are asserted in someone else's property, like this easement. Commissioner Jeff Bergosh, who represents Perdido Key, is determined to fight to keep the Gulf front easement open to the public. He believes private and public beachgoers can co-exist peacefully. He also said the private property owners are benefitting from the recent addition of lifeguards on Perdido Key and other amenities as a result of public tax dollars. I feel bad for them (condo owners), said Bergosh. They were duped. They were sold a bill of goods that they had exclusive private beach all the way to the sand. Thats not my fault. Blame that on whomever it was that sold them the property and duped them. Im going to fight for the people. I'm going to keep that beach open, even if I have to go to the Supreme Court, as long as I'm in this office. The lawsuit comes as no surprise to longtime residents and property owners on Perdido Key, where public access to the beach remains an important issue. The condo owners bought their units with the expectation that it was a private beach, while some Escambia County residents believe public beach is limited. We're growing, said Charles Krupnick, director of the Perdido Key Association board. Beach access #4 was open just a a year or so ago, and the issue of public access to Perdido Key beaches is certainly one of importance to the area, but so is the respect of private property rights and exactly how the discovery or the rediscovery of that particular easement, how that's going to affect the property owners in that mile or so of land. We'll just have to see how it works out in court. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Perdido Key condo owners file lawsuit over public easement on beach WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Congress is working to hold the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) more accountable following the Chinese doping scandal surrounding the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. A bipartisan group of lawmakers is also pointing to recent reports of a doping dispute where two Chinese athletes tested positive for a banned steroid in 2022, and Chinese authorities secretly cleared them. My young life was largely lost to these injustices, said Olympian Allison Wagner. Wagner became a silver medalist swimmer at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. She said she lost multiple gold medals to athletes later proven to have used performance-enhancing drugs. I learned firsthand what kind of impact those experiences can have on an athletes life, well-being and sport career, she said. Today, Wagner has a new goal: Ensuring what happened to me doesnt ever happen to any athlete again. Wagner now works for the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency and is urging Congress to act against the global organization. This system needs to protect every athletes sacrifices and honest dedication, she said. The bipartisan group introduced a bill that aims to bring more accountability and transparency to WADA. WADA has worked against us at every turn, said Sen. Marsha Blackburn, (R-Tenn.). Blackburn accuses WADA of failing to open a doping investigation into Chinese athletes ahead of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Now, 11 of those athletes are competing in the Paris Olympics, Blackburn said. And not one of them has been held accountable. Sen. Chis Van Hollen, (D-Md.), said their legislation would allow the U.S. to withhold funding from WADA and guarantee a seat on its executive committee. At the end of the day, we need a fair playing field, Van Hollen said. In June, two other Olympic swimmers, Michael Phelps and Allison Schmitt, testified before Congress to urge lawmakers to act ahead of the Paris Olympics. I dont want kids growing up thinking that its only doping and cheating where youre able to do these unfathomable things, Phelps said. WADA declined to attend the hearing. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Connecticut locations impacted by Trinity Health of New England phone system outage NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) A temporary phone system and internet outage on Tuesday impacted Trinity Health of New England. According to Trinity Health, the outage impacted the Saint Marys Hospital, Johnson Memorial Hospital, Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital, and Medical Group locations in Connecticut. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. LUSAKA, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on Tuesday called for urgent global consensus to end the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. He made the remarks while meeting visiting Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Ivanovych Kuleba. Hichilema said the Russia-Ukraine conflict needed to be resolved through peaceful means, stressing the importance of global cooperation to promote stability and peace in the region. The widespread repercussions of the conflict should be avoided, the Zambian president said, expressing optimism that a resolution would be found. He further called for enhanced bilateral relations between Zambia and Ukraine, especially in the areas of trade and investment, for the benefit of the peoples of the two countries. For his part, the Ukrainian foreign minister thanked Zambia for its political solidarity with his country and commended Hichilema for participating in diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. Kuleba said the purpose of his African tour was to continue building relations with African countries, emphasizing the need to explore new opportunities between Zambia and Ukraine by enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Kuleba further said Ukraine has officially included Zambia in its food assistance program following the drought that hit the country, resulting in crop failure that has left millions in food assistance. Conservationists release rare batch of snake hatchlings in the wild as part of restoration project: 'A bid to save this irreplaceable species' One of the rarest snakes in North America is getting a second chance at life, thanks to the work of conservationists across multiple local and national agencies. Classified as both endangered and threatened, the Louisiana pine snake has lost much of its habitat due to commercial logging. Cutting down old-growth trees can potentially wipe out entire species through habitat destruction. Meanwhile, fire suppression activities and vehicle strikes have also adversely affected the snakes. However, as Earth Touch News reported, a breeding project is reviving Louisiana pine snakes in the longleaf pine ecosystems of Louisiana and eastern Texas. The Audubon Zoo has hatched at least 120 Louisiana pine snakes since 1997, but 2024 was the program's most successful year to date. Conservationists released six snakes into the wild this year after they received positive health assessments and were microchipped to track their survival rates. "It's truly rewarding to see our herpetology team's efforts and perseverance come to fruition and see animals hatched at our zoo released to the wild in a bid to save this irreplaceable species," said Robert Mendyk, Audubon Zoo's curator of herpetology. "Programs like this are central to the goals and mission of accredited zoos and aquariums and illustrate the many ways in which they contribute to a unified approach to wildlife conservation." Rare animal species, like the Louisiana pine snake, are important to maintaining ecosystem balance and contributing to biodiversity. These are crucial factors for ensuring natural sustainability for all life because the extinction of even one minor species can disrupt entire food chains. Fortunately, special breeding programs are saving the world's rarest animals and rescuing them from the brink of extinction to benefit the entire planet. By working together with other mission-aligned institutions, rare species have an opportunity to survive and thrive in the way nature intended. The Louisiana pine snake breeding program involves the efforts of the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Memphis Zoo, Fort Worth Zoo, Ellen Trout Zoo, and Audubon Zoo. "Partnering with other zoos means we can increase the numbers of these endangered snakes released, share information, and learn from each other as we expand this conservation effort," said Dr. Steven Whitfield from the Audubon Nature Institute. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Contractor didnt use American steel in Fresno streetlight work. Now it has to pay up The city of Fresno won a lawsuit worth $322,000 from a local contractor that did not complete construction work up to the required standards, which included buying American-made steel, the city of Fresno said in a news release on Monday. Kertel Communications Inc., also called Sebastian, was awarded a streetlight contract in 2018 that included improvements to the lights around Blackstone Avenue and Abby Street between Shields Avenue and Divisadero Street, according to the City Attorneys Office. The work was done behind schedule and the contractor did not use steel made in the U.S. though the contract required it, the news release said. A request for comment from the contractor was not immediately returned to The Fresno Bee on Tuesday. City Attorney Andrew Janz praised the citys Public Works Department and Director Scott Mozier for their work on the case. The City Attorneys Office will continue to enforce Buy American provisions in our city contracts, Janz said in the news release. The city of Fresno sued the contractor beginning in October 2023, the release said. An initial agreement by the contractor to re-pay $142,000 fell through when the city and Sebastian disagreed on whether the remaining $180,000 in the contract was owed to the firm, the release said. A tentative decision handed down July 31, sided with the city of Fresno in both arguments, the news release said. Contractor didnt use American steel in streetlight work. Now it has to pay California city The city of Fresno won a lawsuit worth $322,000 from a local contractor that did not complete construction work up to the required standards, which included buying American-made steel, the city of Fresno said in a news release on Monday. Kertel Communications Inc., also called Sebastian, was awarded a streetlight contract in 2018 that included improvements to the lights around Blackstone Avenue and Abby Street between Shields Avenue and Divisadero Street, according to the City Attorneys Office. The work was done behind schedule and the contractor did not use steel made in the U.S. though the contract required it, the news release said. A request for comment from the contractor was not immediately returned to The Fresno Bee on Tuesday. City Attorney Andrew Janz praised the citys Public Works Department and Director Scott Mozier for their work on the case. The City Attorneys Office will continue to enforce Buy American provisions in our city contracts, Janz said in the news release. The city of Fresno sued the contractor beginning in October 2023, the release said. An initial agreement by the contractor to re-pay $142,000 fell through when the city and Sebastian disagreed on whether the remaining $180,000 in the contract was owed to the firm, the release said. A tentative decision handed down July 31, sided with the city of Fresno in both arguments, the news release said. Adin Ross, an online streamer with ties to white nationalists, gifted former President Trump a new Tesla Cybertruck and a Rolex watch during Trumps guest appearance on his show Monday, raising questions over campaign finance law. The Cybertruck was wrapped with a photo from just after Trump was shot in an attempted assassination last month at a Pennsylvania rally. The hood was emblazoned with his slogan, Make America Great Again. Trump was excited by the gift, walking out of his Mar-a-Lago club during the stream to see it. Wow! he said. Thats an Elon! The former president later called the vehicle incredible and beautiful. When Ross presented Trump with a gold Rolex, the former president appeared to joke that only then was his appearance on Rosss stream worth it. Now I know its worth it, he said, calling Rolex a great watch company. Its unclear if Trump actually accepted the gifts, though if he did, it could violate federal campaign finance law. Contributions to federal candidates from an individual are limited to $3,300, far short of the tens of thousands the vehicle and watch are worth. Campaign finance watchdog Brendan Fischer told Rolling Stone that he believes Trump will publicly reject the gifts to avoid legal inquiry. Giving gifts valued at tens of thousands of dollars to a candidate amounts to an illegal and excessive campaign contribution, Fischer said. I suspect that once Trump talks to his lawyers, well get an announcement that he is turning down the gifts or donating them to charity. The Hill has reached out to the Trump campaign for comment. Also, during the guest appearance, Trump quickly commented on various political figures in rapid-fire succession, saying Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez (D-N.Y.) has a good spark and comparing her to former Argentinian first lady Eva Peron. Trump also claimed he warned former Rep. Joe Crowley (D-N.Y.) during his 2018 primary against Ocasio-Cortez that she could be a threat to him politically. Crowley lost that primary to Ocasio-Cortez. Crowley denied ever hearing from Trump during the 2018 campaign, calling the story pure BS. Trumps appearance on Rosss stream also raised concerns with some online given the streamers past controversies. He was repeatedly banned from livestreaming platform Twitch for using homophobic slurs and has since moved to alternative platform Kick. There, he has hosted guests including white nationalist Nick Fuentes and accused sex trafficker Andrew Tate. In March, Ross accidentally revealed that Tate planned to escape house arrest in Romania, where he is currently held on charges of sex trafficking. Tate, himself an influential right-wing figure online, has denied the allegations. The 23-year-olds streams usually consist of him playing video games with guests or online gambling to an audience of mostly young boys. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Franklin County Coroner released the identity of a man struck and killed by two vehicles in the Hilltop, one of which police said fled the scene. Christopher Kuehl, 45, died at 5:31 p.m. Saturday at the scene of the crash at the intersection of Sullivant Avenue and Atlanta Drive. A Columbus police cruiser Police said Kuehl was crossing Sullivant Avenue between Atlanta Drive and Dixie Court when a Honda Pilot headed east on Sullivant Avenue struck him in the left lane. Another vehicle, identified by police as a Jeep Cherokee, struck Kuel a second time after he fell into the right lane of Sullivant Avenue. Police said the Jeep remained at the scene while the driver of the Honda Pilot fled east. The Columbus Division of Police Accident Investigation Unit is investigating the crash, and is seeking a bluish Honda Pilot with damage to its right front. Police have not publicly identified any suspects. Anyone with information about the vehicle or its driver is asked to contact the Accident Investigation Unit at 614-645-4767 or the Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477. bagallion@dispatch.com This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Coroner identifies pedestrian hit twice, killed in Hilltop hit-and-run A local labor union president appeared in federal court Tuesday morning in Corpus Christi, accused of embezzling over $280,000 in union funds. Robert Cirilo, 41, of Corpus Christi, was arrested Monday on 13 counts of wire fraud and one count of embezzlement from a labor organization, federal court records show. Cirilo, who led United Steelworkers Local 13-1647 from 2021 through 2024, made his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jason B. Libby on Tuesday. The proceeding was held at the Corpus Christi Federal Courthouse, though Cirilo remained in custody at the Coastal Bend Detention Center in Robstown during the proceedings, appearing virtually. Cirilo could not be reached for comment Tuesday and does not yet have a lawyer listed in federal court records. The Corpus Christi Federal Courthouse on Aug. 6, 2024. The judge set a $30,000 signature bond for Cirilo during the Monday court appearance. With a signature bond, defendants are not required to pay the bond amount upfront, and can be released from custody on the condition that they return to court for hearings and abide by certain conditions. For example, Cirilo must remain law-abiding while on bond, maintain or actively seek employment and surrender his passport. If directed to by the U.S. Probation Office, Cirilo might also have to submit to drug testing or participate in a substance abuse therapy and counseling program. According to the indictment filed on July 31, Cirilo is accused by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas of using debit cards tied to the labor union's bank accounts to make unauthorized personal purchases and ATM withdrawals with no benefit to the union. Cirilo is accused of obtaining about $287,368 from union bank accounts through 430 debit card transactions and ATM withdrawals between June 3, 2021, and Jan. 8. The indictment outlines several transactions allegedly made by Cirilo using union bank accounts that were intended for USW 13-1647 expenses. This includes a transaction of about $57 at a local bakery in June 2021 and over $800 spent at a grocery store in September 2021, as well as thousands withdrawn from ATMs over the course of 2023. In September 2023, over $6,770 was withdrawn from an ATM, while on other occasions withdrawals of between $500 and $3,500 were made. In May 2022, there were two payments to Residence Inn of over $1,720 and about $2,115. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, but Cirilo is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of the law. If he is convicted, Cirilo faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine on each of the wire fraud counts, as well as up to five years and up to a $10,000 fine on the embezzlement count. Cirilo's next court appearance will be an arraignment set for 10:30 a.m. Friday during which he will enter a plea of either guilty, not guilty or no contest. After the arraignment, a trial will be scheduled. According to a Monday news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office of the Southern District of Texas, the investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Department of Labor's Office of Labor Management Standards. According to statements made by attorney Michael Hess of the U.S. Attorney's Office Southern District of Texas during the Monday hearing, Cirilo has no previous criminal history. The United Steelworkers national organization did not immediately respond to requests for comment Tuesday. The Local 13-1647 chapter could not be reached for comment. Corpus Christi ISD is considering a 2024 bond election. Here's which schools need work. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi to host workforce training program downtown 'It's our sea turtle': A look at the history of Kemp's ridley recovery, ongoing threats This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: Labor union president accused of embezzling over $280,000 Could Louisville be a stop for long-distance Amtrak service again? What officials are saying Amtrak trains aren't quite ready to make their return to Louisville, but an ambitious multi-year study of a national rail network including the city is gaining a little steam as ideas are being floated for it to be a stop along two potential long-distance routes under consideration by the Federal Railroad Administration. The routes one that goes from Chicago to Miami and another that runs between Detroit and New Orleans would require a more than $2 billion investment, which includes upgrades to trains, railroad tracks and train stations. Operations and maintenance costs for each of them could exceed $75 million annually, according to estimates from the study. While Federal Railroad Administration officials discussed their findings in four meetings with state transportation departments, city government employees and other stakeholders from around the country, the routes are still purely hypothetical. Funding for the study itself came from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which President Joe Biden signed into law in November 2021, but there is no other funding earmarked to make the routes a reality yet. City, state officials 'encouraged' as Amtrak considers adding services With the routes not being presented as a proposal for service, Louisville officials do not know at this stage how much it would cost to revive passenger train service which has been absent from the city for more than 20 years or when it would open to the public. Mike King, director of advanced planning for Louisville Metro, said he understands from listening in on presentations for the study that funding for upgrading railroad tracks and train stations would come from the federal government's pocket. "We're one of the largest metropolitan areas in the country without passenger rail service," King said. "We're enthusiastic about trying to bring back train service to the city." It is not clear if the Federal Railroad Administration's designs will be the framework for future projects, but the agency will share the final draft of its work to lawmakers later in 2024, spokesperson William Wong said in a statement. The study itself "is meant to act as a resource for future passenger rail planning efforts upon its completion." The study does not include a timeline showing how long it would take to open new rail lines. "Such information would require substantial additional planning and involvement by numerous stakeholders over many years," Wong said. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, which has been present for the informational sessions offered by the railroad administration, is supportive of the study's goals. "We are encouraged by the Federal Railroad Administration's initiative to explore potential future long-distance rail service with connections in Kentucky as this could provide expanded multi-modal options for travelers in and out of the state," cabinet spokesperson Naitore Djigbenou said in a statement. A potential expansion could help bolster Louisville's already considerable tourism numbers. An estimated 3.9 million people rode a long-distance route with Amtrak in 2023, accounting for about 14% of the agency's total ridership, and overall use grew by 12% within the same year, according to an annual report. Louisville still on track for Amtrak service to Indianapolis Louisville is already in line to receive up to $500,000 from the U.S. Department of Transportation for a proposed route from Louisville to Indianapolis. The grant, first applied for by Kentuckiana Regional Planning and Development Agency, in conjunction with Metro Government in March 2023 and announced in December of the same year, would fund travel on Louisville's existing track. Passenger trains in the 1970s used to travel through the region along Amtrak's Floridian line and others, but stopped in 2003 when the company discontinued service on its Kentucky Cardinal route between Louisville and Chicago due to low ridership. The funding is part of Amtrak's Corridor Identification and Development program, also known as Corridor ID, and aims to "help guide intercity passenger rail development throughout the country and create a pipeline of intercity passenger rail projects ready for implementation," according to the U.S. Department of Transportation's website. King said planning of the Louisville-to-Indianapolis project at the local level is split into three phases. Planners are in phase one of the project, creating a "general analysis" that will set up work for phase two, when specific upgrades to train stations and tracks are decided. In the final phase, necessary construction and renovation work is completed, allowing the station to open for train travel. King said local officials hope to be done with phase one by the end of 2024. Before starting phases two and three, the city would apply for additional federal grant funding. Reach reporter Leo Bertucci at lbertucci@gannett.com or @leober2chee on X, formerly known as Twitter More: What is padel? Meet the new fastest-growing social sport in Louisville This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Louisville Amtrak rail study: Long-distance trains could return to KY The Davenport Committee of the Whole will consider a resolution to accept a report on the NorthPark Mall Retail Market Analysis and Use Strategy at its Wednesday meeting, according to the agenda. NorthPark Mall (OurQuadCities.com) The meeting, which is open to the public, will be at City Hall at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7, in the council chambers at 226 W. 4th St. No official action will be taken on any concept until it moves on to the full city council. The 64-page report, with color illustrations and graphics, was completed by Leland Consulting Group of Portland, Oregon. One consideration is to develop the space into a mixed-use hub, an area that blends mutlple uses for example, retail, residential and gathering space might be part of the new development. Like many malls and retailers, NorthPark Mall in Davenport has faced challenges in recent yearsincluding the loss of two anchor department stores, Sears and Younkers, in 2018, according to the project purpose. Its remaining tenants face challenges including competition from e-commerce and the need to adapt to other changes in consumer preferences. To understand and best plan within the rapidly evolving retail landscape, the City of Davenport retained Leland Consulting Group, Greensfelder Real Estate Strategy (GRES), and Confluence to develop a Retail Market Analysis and Use Strategy for NorthPark Mall. The intended outcome of this effort is to present a redevelopment strategy that will support a resilient and stable economic base for the City while providing viable shopping options in a thriving neighborhood context, according to the report. By taking the proactive steps outlined in this report, NorthPark Mall is likely to see the success enjoyed by many other communities throughout the country that have adapted to the changing retail landscape. The revitalization of NorthPark Mall offers significant promise for the City of Davenport, the report says, Transforming the mall into a dynamic, mixed-use hub creates opportunities to address various community goals, ranging from strengthening the citys economic base to increasing access to housing and public gathering spaces. The redevelopment plan is based on rightsizing the mall, creating the place, activating the district, key takeaways, demographics, retail and multifamily supply conditions, residential supply conditions. Place-making strategies, partnerships, financing mall redevelopment, and various concepts are part of the analysis. The malls redevelopment into a vibrant, mixed-use destination presents the opportunity meeting many community needs including housing, new public gathering spaces, everyday shopping,, as well as new niche shopping experiences, the analysis says. Through long-term, concerted action by multiple stakeholders as outlined above, the consulting team expects that the City and mall owner will enjoy benefits similar to those seen by the many other communities that have pursued mall redevelopments over the years. The report says NorthPark was built in 1973 and subsequently added to in several phases. Now, A significant portion of retail in the city has migrated east and is now organized about I-74 between E. 53rd and Locust. This migration is no surprise. Interestingly, just after the Mall opened in 1973, I-74 was fully opened from I-80 to Moline, and US 61 was no longer the only major north-south arterial in the trade area. The Kimberly I-74 overpass was upgraded to a full interchange in the 1980s, and the bridge replacement across the Mississippi River was just recently completed. Looking forward, it is important to understand what might precipitate the further decline of NorthPark, and how the market might further reorganize itself should that decline happen, the report says. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. NAIROBI, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Mercy Nyaguthii's story mirrors that of many former housewives, who stayed home, waiting for their husbands to provide. A native of a serene village in the central Kenyan county of Nyeri, Nyaguthii, a mother of three, would be doing menial jobs for peanuts at best or spend most of the day idle at worst, for lack of a job. But three years ago, she joined a growing number of women who started small businesses along the Kenol-Sagana-Marua road after the project of upgrading the road into an eight-lane dual carriageway, undertaken by China's Jiangxi Transportation Engineering Group Ltd. in October 2020. Nyaguthii can take anywhere between 500 Kenyan shillings (about 3.8 U.S. dollars) to 7.7 U.S. dollars per day from the venture. "This is much better compared to the 2.3 dollars I took home from the backbreaking and undependable menial jobs in people's farms," Nyaguthii told Xinhua in a recent interview. She is among more than 300 women who found solace in the Rukandu area, one of the many temporary markets that have mushroomed along the 84-kilometer stretch of the dual carriageway under construction near Marua junction, and thousands of others are also making livelihoods in the same way along the busy road. They sell farm produce like arrowroots, cassava, sweet potatoes, and fruits, a business that takes many low-income earners just a small capital to start. The project is supervised by the Kenya National Highways Authority, and co-financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) at 69 percent, Africa Growing Together at 12 percent, and the Kenyan government at 19 percent, and will cost a total of 273.3 million dollars. According to the AfDB group website, the overall implementation period of the project is five years from 2020 to 2025. Mary Mukami, another trader, from Nyeri County in central Kenya, said she has pitched camp along the highway for the last three years to sell arrowroots grown at her farm. "We can provide necessities for our families like food, school fees, and house rent through the proceeds we get here," said Mukami, a mother of three. She was among the first people to start trading at the site. Only about 20 small traders were based at Rukandu before the number steadily grew to over 300. About 95 percent of the traders are women, most initially considered at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder. A sizable number of them were previously housewives or single mothers who were the sole breadwinners of their families. "Many here are single mothers, but they are now able to provide for their children and educate them. Others live in rental houses and can now effortlessly and promptly pay their rent," Mukami said. Selling next to Mukami is Emily Wangari who also depended on unreliable menial jobs previously for income while trading along the road has proved lucrative. Many buyers making stopovers along the road have their eyes mostly set on traditional foods like arrowroots, cassava, sweet potatoes, and bananas. But the traders' venture is not without challenges as they go through difficulties in the course of their work, selling under harsh elements including scorching sun and rain. Senior government officials and local leaders have started providing the traders at the open-air market with umbrellas to shield them from punishing heat. The Chinese-built road is part of the Great North Road that runs from the coastal city of Mombasa through Nairobi and is expected to reach Moyale town which borders Ethiopia. It will form a stretch of 800 kilometers from Nairobi to Moyale. The Kenol-Sagana-Marua section traverses three agricultural counties of Murang'a, Kirinyaga, and Nyeri in central Kenya. The positive impacts of the road have been felt in the upper eastern parts of Kenya where it has stimulated commerce through seamless movement of goods and services. As for Justus Wanjiku, traveling 12 kilometers daily from home to the market where he sells fruits has been rewarding financially amid the high traffic of customers, including truck drivers and construction workers. "On my first day, I recorded impressive sales which gave me the motivation to start operating from here. From then, I have been selling a variety of fruits like oranges and bananas," Wanjiku said. The Council of the EU on Aug. 6 gave its written approval to disburse 4.2 billion euros ($4.6 billion) to Kyiv as the first regular payment under the Ukraine Facility. The four-year Ukraine Facility allocates 33 billion euros ($36 billion) in loans and 17 billion euros ($18 billion) in grants, conditional on the Ukrainian government's carrying out certain reforms. "With the completion of the written procedure, the Council has adopted an implementing decision today," the Hungarian presidency of the Council said on X. "This decision supports Ukraine's macro-financial stability and the functioning of its public administration." The EU approved the Ukraine Facility in February, and the EU Council approved the framework agreement in mid-May, setting out the Ukrainian government's tasks for recovery, reconstruction, and modernization. "Grateful to the (Council of the EU) for authorizing the first regular payment of 4.2 billion euros under the Ukraine Facility," Ukraine's Finance Minister Serhii Marchenko said. "Thus, the (EU) budget support in 2024 will reach over 12 billion euros." Kyiv already received several pre-financing "bridge" tranches under the assistance plan earlier this year. Read also: EU devises workaround for possible Hungary veto of funds for Ukraine, FT reports Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. More than a dozen Arizona voters filed voter intimidation complaints during the 2022 midterm election, claiming that drop box watchers were taking photos of them and confronting them as they went to vote. In one instance, here, two armed people stood outside of a ballot drop box in Mesa. (Courtesy of the Maricopa County Elections Department) Arizonas rules aimed at preventing specific types of voter intimidation and harassment near polling places and drop boxes are too broad and violate free speech rights, a Maricopa County judge ruled. The rules, some of which have been in place for years, prohibit anyone from following, photographing, videotaping, or yelling at voters outside drop boxes or polling places, along with other activities that Secretary of State Adrian Fontes had declared were intimidating. Tuesdays injunction from Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Jennifer Ryan-Touhill temporarily prohibits Arizona officials from enforcing the rules, until the court can issue a final ruling in the matter. This article was originally published by Votebeat, a nonprofit news organization covering local election administration and voting access. The ruling comes just two months before early voting begins for the presidential election, and as Republican groups pledge to watch over the polls. The Republican National Committee, for example, launched a Protect the Vote tour in June to recruit poll watchers, poll workers, and lawyers to ensure it is easy to vote and hard to cheat. Fontess office said in a statement Tuesday that it will appeal the order. While we respect the courts decision to halt certain speech restrictions, implementing a preliminary injunction for the general election would be too far-reaching, the statement said. Ryan-Touhill wrote that the secretary of state can restrict certain activity in the immediate area around a polling place, such as telling someone whom to vote for or threatening someone. But she wrote that many of the other prohibitions Fontes listed in the new Elections Procedures Manual which was approved in December by Gov. Katie Hobbs and Attorney General Kris Mayes violate free-speech rights, even beyond the 75-foot electioneering boundary around a polling place. What, for example, constitutes a person communicating about voter fraud in a harassing manner? she wrote. Or, for that matter, posting a sign in an intimidating manner? How does a person either do this behavior whatever it means or avoid it? And what content printed on a t-shirt might be offensive or harassing to one and not another? What if the t-shirt says, I have a bomb and I intend to vote! Where does the Secretary draw the line? State law already makes it unlawful for a person to threaten or intimidate a person in a way that would cause a person to refrain from voting, Ryan-Touhill wrote. But Fontess election manual defines intimidation and harassment in a way that state law doesnt, she wrote. Fontess office clarified that even with the order, it still is illegal to campaign, take photos, and intimidate voters within the 75-foot line. Many of the voter intimidation rules that the judge called problematic, such as those on yelling at voters, were in the states election procedures manual before Fontes update. The 2019 manual, for example, prohibited yelling at or confronting voters in an intimidating manner as they went to vote. In December, Fontes added new rules in response to conservative groups that were monitoring drop boxes during the 2022 midterm election in search of proof of fraud. More than a dozen voters filed complaints of intimidation, stating that the groups were taking photos and videos of them and confronting them. In one instance, drop box watchers were spotted with guns and body armor. As Fontess office drafted the manual, it also added rules prohibiting taking photos and videos of voters, impersonating a law enforcement officer, or otherwise wearing clothing or uniforms intended to intimidate voters. The new draft of the manual faced an immediate backlash from Republicans in the state, who argued that several parts contradicted state law or were unconstitutional. Republican groups filed three separate lawsuits. The order on Tuesday came in a case filed by the Arizona Free Enterprise Club, the America First Policy Institute, and a resident. Scot Mussi, president and executive director of the Arizona Free Enterprise Club, told the judge in a hearing last week that the restrictions on activity outside of polling places were vague and ambiguous, and he worried that the organizations workers or volunteers would be prosecuted for activity they did not see as threatening, according to the judges order. We use the wrong word on a [flyer], they might think that its threatening or harassing and would give an election official the ability to force us to have to leave or can lead to other consequences, Mussi told the judge, according to her order. The new deputy general counsel for the Oklahoma State Department of Education has asked a federal judge for a protective order in an attempt to limit the amount of information being sought in the discovery phase of a wrongful-termination lawsuit filed by a former employee against the agency and state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters. The order requested last week by Shannon Smith who didnt file an entry of appearance in the case until June 24 would force attorneys for Janessa Bointy to confer and cooperate in establishing an electronically stored information discovery plan and allow additional time for Smith and other attorneys for Walters to develop supplementary responses to Bointys opening discovery requests. The order also would exclude the personnel records and unnecessary information of employees, other than the Plaintiff who have worked for the agency and would limit the timeframe for discovery sought by Bointys attorneys to the time period beginning three months before Bointys employment Sept. 28, 2020 through the date her lawsuit was filed, on Sept. 1, 2023. Bointys attorneys have asked for information about other employees whove claimed wrongful termination from the agency people who have the same job role Bointy had, people who might have replaced her and those involved in the decision to fire her. They want the responses from Walters attorneys to go back five years from the date of Bointys lawsuit to September 2018. U.S. District Judge Stephen Friot has given Bointys attorneys until Aug. 12 to respond to the motion filed by Smith. An attorney for state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters (above) is trying to limit the amount of discovery requested by attorneys of a woman who has sued Walters for wrongful termination in federal court. Two judges have denied attempts by Walters to have the lawsuit dismissed after Bointy sued Walters and the state agency in Oklahoma County District Court in September 2023. Walters asked for the case to be moved to the federal system after Oklahoma County District Court Judge Sheila Stinson didnt dismiss the lawsuit. Walters then asked Friot to dismiss the case, but Friot allowed a portion of Bointys lawsuit to stand. That ruling means Walters must file a response to the original lawsuit, allowing the case to move into the discovery phase. That must be completed by March 15, according to court documents. Friot has set a trial date of April 8 in the case. In a filing supporting her request for the protective order, Smith wrote that Bointys requests reach well beyond the anticipated scope of the discovery in relation to the alleged claims, requiring significant time and expenditure of resources, especially with regard to the collection, review, and supply of electronically stored information. She called the requests overbroad and unduly burdensome. Smith included in the filing an email between herself and Jenn Smith, of Deloitte Transactions and Business Analytics LLP. Jenn Smith said in her email it would cost between $30,000 and $35,000 to fill Bointys opening discovery request as drafted. The proposal being pushed by Shannon Smith would cost between $2,735 and $4,070, Jenn Smiths email said. Leah Roper, an attorney for Bointy, said the discovery requests arent unusual. Generally speaking, the requests are designed to gather fairly standard information about the decision to terminate Ms. Bointy's employment, locate witnesses and comparators, and learn information about the issues which the OSDE and Mr. Walters have raised in the litigation, so we certainly disagree that the scope of the requests is too broad, Roper told The Oklahoman. Ultimately, if the issues cannot be resolved between us as parties then the judge will make that determination for us. Bointy sued Walters for being fired after speaking at local board meeting In the lawsuit, Bointy accused the department and Walters of firing her for speaking about the importance of mental health resources during a March 6, 2023, meeting of the Edmond Public Schools board. Bointy had worked at the state Education Department since 2020 as a school counselor specialist. Her job involved facilitating a mental health-focused federal grant program called Project AWARE East. After learning of a student's suicide, she said she felt compelled to speak at the Edmond school board meeting. Her children attend that school district. For two minutes, Bointy encouraged the district to boost its mental health programs and suggested administrators apply for a federal grant for related trainings. She said she would have given the same advice to every school district, if she could. Three days later, the state Education Department fired her. Her termination letter, which The Oklahoman reviewed, stated Bointy violated the agency's media policy and her confidentiality agreement by speaking at the board meeting. The letter also cited a year-old complaint that she had conducted personal business during work hours. Bointy has said she didn't share any confidential information in her remarks, and she didn't speak with media at the meeting, though a local TV station aired some of her comments to the school board. Walters is facing three wrongful-termination lawsuits in federal court Bointys wrongful-termination lawsuit is one of three Walters is facing in federal court, with the two others also including Walters Texas-based chief adviser, Matt Langston, as a defendant. Cheryl McGee, once the state agencys executive director of school based mental health, and Matthew Colwell, who served as the agencys executive director of school success, sued Walters and Langston in May 2023. McGee and Colwell both claim they were wrongly punished for sharing agency communications outside of the department. Colwell said in his lawsuit the state agencys leadership ignored his warning that a new signing bonus program for teachers fell short of state and federal requirements and risked an $18 million penalty to Oklahoma taxpayers. Colwell was fired a day after he reported the information to the attorney generals office and a state representative, his lawsuit states. Both those cases are being heard by U.S. District Judge Charles Goodwin. Data recently released by the U.S. Court system showed Goodwin consistently ranks as one of the slowest federal judges in Oklahoma. Neither case has had a filing since May 31, when Goodwin granted motions by the state agencys former general counsel, Bryan Cleveland, to withdraw from each case. Cleveland resigned from the agency in March. Clevelands replacement as general counsel, Michael Beason, filed a motion of appearance in each case on May 30. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Ryan Walters seeks to limit discovery in wrongful-termination lawsuit A Brooklyn-based state appeals court ruled last week that the USA Today Network New York can access reams of police discipline records that had been withheld for years by the town of Greenburgh, in Westchester County. The Appellate Division, Second Department, said that the town's attempts to shield all unsubstantiated allegations of misconduct within its police department, and to withhold disciplinary files created before 2020, were inconsistent with state law. A troubling trend of NY police crashes Devastating injuries. Very few consequences. How frequent NY police crashes wreck lives. Are these discipline records meant to be public in New York? In 2020, the New York state legislature repealed Section 50-a of the Civil Rights Law, which had protected all police discipline records from public disclosure. That meant that police discipline records, such as those documenting the frequency of police vehicle crashes or an officer leaving a loaded gun unattended, could be obtained by the public or by journalists. New York's Freedom of Information Law, or FOIL, allows members of the press and public to request access to government records. The USA Today Network requested these records from every police department in New York state in 2020. As we receive new discipline records, we will periodically update our police records database so readers can access misconduct documents coming from their local departments. Explore our database of misconduct records from New York state police departments here. A number of police departments across the state, however, have fought the release of their disciplinary files. Some argued that certain records, such as so-called unsubstantiated records, could remain under seal. Inside Herkimer police records: Gun fired in police station, Taser used on pregnant woman Where does the Greenburgh decision fit in? Last week's decision follows a recent string of cases in which the Second Department and other appellate courts have ordered the release of unsubstantiated records and pre-2020 records. These courts have opined that nothing in current law allows for the categorical withholding of these classes of records. The Second Department has been described as the busiest appellate court in the country, covering an outright majority of New York's population and adjudicating most of New York's appellate cases. Mount Vernon ordered to release records Mt. Vernon police records ruling: 'Citizens who are being policed have the right to know' "The Second Department has consistently ruled on these issues and has gotten it right every time," said Kelly McNamee, an attorney with Greenberg Traurig representing the USA Today Network in its public records litigation. "The judicial tides have changed at the Appellate Division. They're just applying the plain language of the FOIL amendments as they clearly should be applied." However, New York's highest court, the Court of Appeals, has agreed to review these issues in its upcoming term, despite the ongoing consensus of the appellate courts. Asher Stockler is a reporter for The Journal News and the USA Today Network New York. You can send him an email at astockler@lohud.com. Reach him securely: asher.stockler@protonmail.com. This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Greenburgh NY ordered to release police records to USA Today Network Dr. Mark Barns of UofL recommends taking a COVID-19 booster and flu shot together this fall. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) LOUISVILLE COVID-19 is alive and well in Kentucky, cautions infectious disease expert Dr. Mark Burns, as hospitalizations for the virus rise and students and teachers head back to school. Kentuckys Cabinet for Health and Family Services data shows an uptick in emergency department visits and hospitalizations from COVID-19 as of Aug. 1. In July there were 438 hospitalizations for the virus in Kentucky up from 292 hospitalizations in July of 2023. Also in July 2023, there were 736 emergency room visits for COVID-19, up to 1,704 last month. This comes as the virus is on the rise in Kentucky, among 35 other states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Much of the country, especially the South and Midwest, is seeing increased numbers of the COVID-19 virus ahead of the new school year and holiday season. It is out there, Burns told reporters Monday. But the good news is, of course, you still have protection from the vaccines. The CDC recommends everyone six months and older get vaccinated against COVID-19. A new vaccine booster is expected this fall, possibly in September, as an update to the fall 2023 shot. Were hoping that everybody will take it along with the influenza vaccine or the flu shot, said Burns, who is an associate professor at the University of Louisville and a medical doctor with UofL Health. It is safe to take them both at the same time. Were in a place now where were going to try to make it more of a yearly vaccine as opposed to every three, four or five months. As children head back to school, Burns said, they should be diligent about hand washing, covering coughs and general good hygiene that can reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. And if a person feels sick, they should stay home to lower the risk of spreading the virus to others, he said. If theyre contagious, then they will spread it on, he said. So were asking people who are ill to stay home. This story has been updated to correct an error in an earlier version about the rate of increase in hospitalizations for COVID-19. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST CPD: 2-year-old missing after trip from Tampa to Chicago, father in custody for not returning him to mother CHICAGO The Chicago Police Department is asking for the publics help finding a two-year-old boy who has been missing since April, after taking his father into custody for not returning him to his mother in May. Two-year-old Joshua Mosley Jr. was last seen on April 20, when his father Joshua Mosley Sr. Picked him up in Tampa, Florida and brought him to Chicago. Police said Mosley Sr. was allowed by his sons mother to take him to Chicago, on the condition he was returned to her on May 30, but Mosley Jr. was not returned by that date. According to CPD, Mosley Sr. is in police custody of the Cook County Sheriffs Office for a contempt of court order in relation to returning the missing 2-year-old boy. Mosley Jr. is thought by police to be with his paternal grandmother, Patricia Tillman, who has addresses in the 200 block of East 51st Street, and the 9000 block of South Morgan Street, in the Grand Boulevard and Washington Heights neighborhoods on the citys South Side. Anyone with information that can help CPD safely locate Mosley Jr. is asked to call 911, or Area One SVU detectives at 312-747-8380. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. STEVENS POINT CREATE Portage County has a new executive director. Kristin Hubbard Dostal will spend the next two weeks training and will officially take over executive functions Aug. 19, according to an announcement from the organization. Hubbard Dostal was most recently the executive director at the Epilepsy Foundation of Wisconsin, where she also served as the development director and program director. According the CREATE Portage Countys announcement, Hubbard Dostal has experience running a small business as a photographer and has a unique perspective and understanding of the community. She also earned an accounting degree from Mid-State Technical College and has gone through the Nonprofit Leadership Institute, according to CREATE Portage Countys announcement. Hubbard Dostal will take over for Maggie Marquardt as the organizations executive director. Marquardt will continue with CREATE Portage County through Aug. 30. Marquardt announced in May she would be stepping down in the fall to pursue a graduate program in clinical mental health counseling after working with CREATE Portage County since 2016 first on the board, then as its executive director since 2022. CREATE Portage County started in 2004 as the Arts Alliance of Portage County, advocating for arts and culture. The organization rebranded as CREATE Portage County in 2016 and focuses on initiatives that support all forms of creativity through local investments and entrepreneurship. For more information, visit createportagecounty.org. Readers share their favorites: What are the best food trucks in the Stevens Point area? Stevens Point Streetwise: What's being built near Ulta in Plover and Scooter's Coffee in Stevens Point? Contact Caitlin at cshuda@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @CaitlinShuda. This article originally appeared on Stevens Point Journal: CREATE Portage County names new executive director A Crescent City man was arrested over the weekend and accused of causing his friend's death while driving drunk in a DeLeon Springs crash more than a year ago, Florida Highway Patrol traffic homicide investigators said. Michael Ray Rosado Rivera, 32, was charged Friday with DUI manslaughter and DUI with damage to property. He is out of the Volusia County Branch Jail on $50,000 bail. The wreck that killed Juan Manuel Sierra Berdecia, 46, of Daytona Beach, occurred on State Road 40 near Lake Winona Road at 3:45 p.m. Feb. 23, 2023, troopers said. Rosado Rivera was westbound on SR 40 in a Nissan Armada headed from Daytona Beach to his home in Crescent City when he swerved to avoid colliding with an RV towing a trailer eastbound on SR 40, troopers said. The RV driver told troopers Rosado Rivera was westbound in the eastbound lane. The RV driver had to move closer to the right shoulder and honk his horn. Rosado Rivera swerved out of the RV's way and lost control of the Nissan Armada which reentered the eastbound lane and slammed into a Chrysler sedan driven by an 18-year-old Port Orange resident, troopers said. The Nissan Armada then ran off the road and overturned near the tree line. Sierra Berdecia, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected, investigating troopers said. The 18-year-old, who told troopers he was headed to his Port Orange home from college in Gainesville, was not injured, according to troopers. Highway Patrol traffic homicide investigators said Rosado Rivera had a blood alcohol content of .188, more than twice the .08 legal limit permitted by Florida law when someone is considered impaired. Investigating troopers found an open case of cold Bud Light beer with several opened and unopened cans inside the Nissan Armada and on the ground outside the vehicle at the crash scene, an FHP arrest report showed. This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Florida man accused of driving drunk, killing friend FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) The Dinuba Fire Department battled an apartment fire Monday night. Fire officials say Dinuba Fire with assistance from Reedley Fire and Tulare County Fire responded to an apartment fire in the 900 block of W. El Monte Way. When units arrived on the scene they found a fire in a second-story of the apartment. The cause of the fire is under investigation and it is unknown if anyone was injuried. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47. Crews called to vehicle fire on Epworth Street in Rochester ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) First responders were called to a vehicle fire in Rochester Monday. It happened around 6:30 p.m. on Epworth Street. Firefighters on scene did not comment on the cause of the fire or any potential injuries. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. TRIPOLI, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Libyan Foreign Ministry and the EU Border Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM) on Tuesday discussed the second half of the mission's 7th mandate on bolstering Libya's capabilities in protecting its borders. At the meeting, both sides "engaged in a constructive dialogue" based on a comprehensive review of the mission's undertakings and agreed on commonly defined priorities, the EUBAM said in a statement. The two sides lauded "the positive results of the interagency cooperation and interaction within the framework of the sub-working groups" on land and maritime borders as well as organized crimes, it said. In May 2013, the EU Council gave the green light for the EUBAM to support the Libyan authorities in bolstering the security of Libya's borders. The EUBAM's core mandate is to contribute to enhancing the capacity of the Libyan authorities and agencies to manage Libya's borders, fight cross-border crime including human trafficking and migrant smuggling, and combat terrorism. On June 26, 2023, the EU Council extended the mandate until June 30, 2025. Crossville detective charged with assault for use of physical force during arrest CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) A Crossville Police Department detective has been indicted on an assault charge, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) announced Tuesday. According to the TBI, 13th Judicial District Attorney General Bryant Dunaway requested an investigation after the officer reportedly assaulted a subject following a criminal interview on June 3. Data shows reported auto thefts going down in Nashville The individual allegedly assaulted was transported to a local hospital where he was treated and released, according to the TBI. During the course of the investigation, TBI agents discovered Det. Tyrel Lorenz used physical force while affecting the arrest of the subject. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com The Cumberland County Grand Jury handed down an indictment charging Lorenz, 37, with one count of assault. Lorenz turned himself in at the Cumberland County Jail and was booked. He has since been released on his own recognizance, the TBI said. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Cybersecurity company CrowdStrike accused Delta Air Lines of offering a misleading narrative about the recent global technology outage as the two companies continue their dispute about who is to blame for damages the airline incurred. Delta has threatened to sue CrowdStrike for the outage, which the airlines CEO said cost it $500 million. Michael Carlinsky, a lawyer for CrowdStrike, said the companys liability should be less than $10 million. He said CrowdStrike is highly disappointed that Delta has accused the company of acting inappropriately, noting CrowdStrikes apology after the outage. In a letter shared with The Hill, addressed to Deltas lawyer David Boies, Carlinsky said Sunday that the airlines threat of a lawsuit has contributed to a misleading narrative that CrowdStrike is responsible for Deltas IT decisions and response to the outage. Carlinsky questioned why other airlines were able to recover from the outage more quickly. He said the cybersecurity company took responsibility for its actions after the outage and Delta did not. On July 19, multiple airlines faced technology issues, but Delta faced large numbers of cancellations in the days following. The outage was linked to an update from CrowdStrike that crashed computers running Windows software. CrowdStrike rolled out a rapid fix, but it took long periods for impacted customers to recover. In the days following the outage, thousands of Delta flights were cancelled or delayed. In an appearance on CNBC, Delta CEO Ed Bastian said the airline has no choice but to sue. In a statement to The Hill, a CrowdStrike spokesperson said Carlinkys letter speaks for itself. We have expressed our regret and apologies to all of our customers for this incident and the disruption that resulted, the statement said. Public posturing about potentially bringing a meritless lawsuit against CrowdStrike as a long-time partner is not constructive to any party. We hope that Delta will agree to work cooperative to find a resolution. In his letter, Carlinksy said litigation between the two companies would be unfortunate, but CrowdStrike will respond aggressively, if forced to do so, in order to protect its shareholders, employees, and other stakeholders. Delta said in a statement to The Hill that the airline has a long track record of investing in safe, reliable and elevated service for our customers and employees. Since 2016, Delta has invested billions of dollars in IT capital expenditures, in addition to the billions spent annually in IT operating costs. Updated at 1:19 p.m. EDT Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Bloomberg) -- The crypto industry, whose hostility to the Biden Administration have led some major participants to publicly endorse Donald Trump, is spending millions through a pair of super PACs to shape the Democratic Party by intervening in congressional primaries. Most Read from Bloomberg The pro-crypto political action committee putting the most money behind Democrats is Protect Progress, which has spent over $13 million on US congressional campaigns. Protect Progress, along with affiliated pro-crypto super PACs Fairshake and Defend American Jobs, have raised $170 million in total to spend on the 2024 campaign cycle, according to Federal Election Commission filings. Top donors include crypto industry titans Andreessen Horowitz, Coinbase Global Inc. and the Winklevoss brothers that run the Gemini exchange. The overarching goal of the super PACs is to push for what industry participants have called greater regulatory clarity. Critics of the Biden administration have accused the US Securities and Exchange Commission of acting in bad faith by regulating through enforcement. Unlike regular political action committees, groups such as Protect Progress can spend and receive an unlimited amount of contributions from corporations, individuals and other super PACs, even if theyre not affiliated with each other. The main limitation is that super PACs are not allowed to directly donate to or coordinate with candidates or their campaigns. Whereas the groups two siblings have spent $16 million supporting crypto-friendly Republican candidates and about $14 million sinking the campaigns of anti-crypto Democrats Katie Porter and Jamaal Bowman, Protect Progress has spent more than $13 million to support pro-crypto Democrats, according to FEC data. FairShake has also spent about $600,000 supporting Democrats. Fairshake and its two affiliates are run by political strategist Michael Carcaise. In 2021, he set up a super PAC called GMI PAC that raised $12.5 million, including $2 million from Sam Bankman-Fried, the disgraced co-founder of FTX, and $1.5 million from former FTX executive Ryan Salame. Carcaise is listed as executive director of Political Campaign & PAC Management and Strategy in a LinkedIn profile. Josh Vlasto, a spokesman for the three super PACs, didnt respond to several requests for comment. GMI itself never directly spent any money on campaigns. It instead sent almost all of its donations to affiliates including Web3 Forward, a former Democrat-focused pro-crypto super PAC. Carcaise was listed as the treasurer of Web3 Forward on the PACs FEC filing. Eight of the 13 candidates that Protect Progress has backed so far have ran or are running in non-incumbent races in districts that have a strong Democrat presence, the data show. That aligns with the strategy once used by Web3 Forward. Nine candidates endorsed by Protect Progress have won their primaries and now move on to general elections on Nov. 5. The spending has raised tension in some primaries. Ballots are currently being counted for Arizonas House District 3 election, where the super PAC spent part of $1.4 million to support candidate Yassamin Ansari with a video campaign advertisement about two weeks before the election. The 30-second long video in Spanish has no mention of crypto. Ansaris opponent, Raquel Teran, denounced the spending, saying the super PAC is controlled by Republican donors. Ive never heard anybody at the door bring up crypto, Teran said in an interview. Thats all I have to say. --With assistance from Bill Allison. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. This Cudahy man is walking 500 miles across Wisconsin to raise money for a local nonprofit Cudahy resident Greg Studzinski walked away from addiction by walking 136 miles from Green Bay to Cudahy over five days in early September 2022. But I would walk five hundred miles. Cudahy resident Greg Studzinski is taking that line from The Proclaimers 1988 hit Im Gonna Be (500 Miles) literally as he walks from Lake Superior to Lake Michigan this month. Studzinski is walking from Superior to Cudahy to raise money for the United Community Center, a Milwaukee-based nonprofit offering educational services, senior support, homebuyer counseling and more, according to the UCC website. Studzinski fell into heroin addiction that affected his life for a decade after a divorce and issues with a business partner. It was the support team at UCC that he said helped him to make changes. While making those positive strides, Studzinski chose to made literal strides as he walked from Green Bay to Cudahy in August 2022 for his "Packer 2 Packer 120" trek. That effort raised over $17,000 for the Milwaukee Street Angels. His motto was: Walking away from addiction. After the success of his first walk, Studzinski said it was like the TV turned off and I was like, What now? Hed been so focused on training for the trek and talking about recovery every day that when it was done, he suddenly found himself not doing anything toward staying clean. In November 2023, Studzinski announced his intention to walk the extra mile about 380 extra miles, actually. Hes calling this latest walk from Aug. 12 through Aug. 30 the "Lake 2 Lake 500." As of early August, Studzinski is over nine months clean. Hes been spending more time with his kids, which he said is for his sanity and said being with them is his "happy place. As part of his training for the Lake 2 Lake 500, Studzinski walks to support meetings every day. He also walks for other errands and estimates he logs between 5 and 7 miles per day. Youve got to absolutely surrender, he said of his struggle. A willingness to try new things is important and you have to get to meetings. Meetings makers make it. Like his Packer 2 Packer walk, Studzinski plans to livestream much of his trip. Hes also thinking about journaling at the end of each day with self-reflections about what hes learned about himself, who he met and other thoughts that may come along the way. Studzinski will carry a flag with the "Lake 2 Lake" logo on it for the walk and hell be asking anyone he meets who has been affected by addiction to sign it as a memento of the trip. Support comes in many forms, from graphic design to joining in on the walk The logo was designed by Ryan Epoch whom Studzinski met while in rehab. Epoch works in graphic arts and Studzinski said he did the design for free. He made it all come to life, Studzinski said. Hes one of the million talented people who are in recovery. Greg Studzinski is walking from Lake Superior to Lake Michigan to raise money for the United Community Center. The logo for the walk was designed by Ryan Epoch for free to support Studzinski. Another person Greg met in recovery printed the logo on 100 shirts at cost to support the walk. Studzinski said hes been getting even more support than for his first walk because he announced it much earlier. Its amazing the support this time because so many more people heard about it for so long now, he said. Im a lot more present and active in my own recovery, so a lot of people in the recovery community know about the walk. Some people dont know Im the one doing it, but I still hear them talking about it, which is kind of funny. The good vibes are extending onto the sidewalk as well, with Studzinski saying about two dozen people have expressed interest in joining him for various portions of the walk. Studzinski has a friend in Superior who works in recovery doing peer support who will join him for the first few days. One group that will likely join is from the 4th Dimension Recovery Center. Studzinski said a group from there will walk about 7 miles with him. Toward the end of his walk, Studzinski has checkpoints set up for 7 miles, 5 miles, and 3 miles from the finish to try and allow people to be part of things depending on what they can physically do. Studzinski will keep people updated on these locations and meeting times through the Lake 2 Lake 500 Facebook page. Im very, very blessed, Studzinski said. Im excited to meet people and get out and be out in the community and just enjoy myself. The early announcement also allowed Studzinski to hold a spaghetti dinner fundraiser at Milwaukees Pass it on Club in June. I had such an amazing turnout with over 100 people there, Studzinski said. It was just absolutely amazing. I was blown away by the support. Greg Studzinski (left) is walking from Lake Superior to Lake Michigan to raise money for the United Community Center. Here he poses in front of the Lake 2 Lake 500 logo with friend and walk supporter Zo Beans. What will be the route of the Lake 2 Lake 500? The walk will go through many Wisconsin communities, including Brule, Ashland, Hurley, Mercer, Merrill, Wittenberg, Clintonville, New London, Minocqua, Antigo, Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, West Bend and Brown Deer. Studzinski will start near a little Welcome to Superior sign about a mile from his hotel. He has multiple hotels booked along his 19-day walking route and almost all of it will be new territory for him. I (will have) only been there the day Im walking, most of these places, he said with a laugh. One concern that is no laughing matter are bears. Studzinski said he noticed a lot of bears in the Minocqua area. Ive got to obviously prepare for something like that, he said, saying some have suggested he add bells to his pack to alert the bears to his presence and keep them at bay. While its called the Lake 2 Lake 500, technically Gregs route is about 456 miles. He expects it might be a little farther, though. Im sure Ill get lost so we can add some miles on top of there, he said. Studzinskis walk will end in Cudahy at the intersection of Layton Avenue and Lake Drive. Cudahy resident Greg Studzinski (center) walked away from addiction by walking 136 miles from Green Bay to Cudahy in September 2022. A few people like his friend John Leanna (left) and cousin James Brown (right) joined him at various points of his journey. Others are welcome to join Studzinski for the walk Studzinski said hes also open to more people joining him for the walk, however much they want to do. Anyone interested in walking just reach out, he said, adding hed be interested to hear peoples stories of struggling with or overcoming addictions. Ive got a lot of time when Im walking to talk. What does Studzinksi have planned after the walk? Studzinski said hes learned he needs to stay active and involved so after the walk hell be going back to full-time work. He is working to take a counseling course and hopes to work in the recovery field. He also recently got his real estate license to do some of that work on the side. Its the people business. I enjoy people and I think I can help in both aspects, he said. While Studzinski didnt say if he has any plans for a third walk, if this walk is successful and history is any indicator he could follow up what The Proclaimers said and walk 500 more. How to support Greg Studzinski's Lake 2 Lake 500 GoFundMe: gofundme.com/f/gregorys-fund-for-charity Cash App: $GregoryStudzinski Cash/Check: Call 414-915-7883 or email fightforrecovery414@gmail.com and Studzinski will provide a mailing address or set up a pickup location. A check combining all donations will be presented to UCC during a recovery event in September. Contact Erik S. Hanley at erik.hanley@jrn.com. Like his Facebook page, The Redheadliner, and follow him on X @Redheadliner. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: A Cudahy man is walking 500 miles from Superior to Cudahy. Here's why CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A Cumberland County woman is facing charges for allegedly stealing from a school districts PTO fund. East Pennsboro Township Police say in October they met with East Pennsboro Area School District PTO members regarding suspicious transactions on financial statements, as well as unexplained payments and cash withdraws. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now WHTM Daily Digest Police learned that Melissa Robinson, of Enola, had been in charge of the PTO funds financial assets since 2019. Officials discovered $3,900 in unexplained cash withdraws that started in 2021, as well as five personal checks made by Robinson totaling $7,250. Three of the checks, which police say totaled $2,000 over two years, were made out to Robinson directly. During an interview in June with Robinson, police say she admitted to using the PTO funds to ease her own financial burden and that she used the funds without consent or authorization. Robinson has been charged with theft by unlawful taking or disposition and access device fraud. She was released without bail and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on August 14. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. A court in Prague, Czechia, has sentenced a former Czech soldier, Filip Siman, who went to fight as a volunteer in Ukraine, to seven years in prison for looting. Source: This was reported by CTK, European Pravda reports Details: He was found guilty of the crime of looting in a war zone. State prosecutor Martin Bily said that, according to his information, Simans case is the first-ever conviction for this crime in connection with the war in Ukraine. The verdict is not yet final. The defendant tried to justify himself, stating, among other things, that he was following orders from his command. Quote: "The defendant was found guilty both on the basis of video recordings he made in Ukraine and on the basis of eyewitness testimony," said Hana Krestynova, the chair of the Prague City Court panel. Filip Siman, 27, travelled to Ukraine at the end of March 2022 and joined the Ukrainian volunteer battalion Carpathian Sich. In Ukraine, Siman served in Irpin and Bucha, where he was tasked with patrolling trenches and conducting so-called mopping-up operations. According to the court's verdict, while carrying out orders and in his free time, he appropriated the belongings of both civilians and dead soldiers, such as wedding rings, other jewellery, gold and silver bars, and cash. In April 2022, Siman was detained by the Ukrainian army and subsequently returned to Czechia. Siman also faced charges of illegal service in a foreign armed force, as he joined the fighting in Ukraine without the permission of the Czech president. However, the court acquitted him of this charge. His trial began last month. The prosecutor demanded 10 years in prison for Siman. The term was shortened as Siman had no previous convictions. Support UP or become our patron! Czechia sentences volunteer who fought in Ukraine to 7 years in prison for looting A court in Czechia on Aug. 6 sentenced Czech ex-soldier Filip Siman to seven years in prison for looting while serving in Ukraine as a volunteer fighter, CTK news agency reported. He can appeal the verdict. Siman was also accused of illegal service in foreign armed forces, for which he did not receive permission from the Czech president. The court acquitted him of this charge, as Prime Minister Petr Fiala said earlier that there would be no punishment for Czech volunteers in Ukraine. The prosecution immediately appealed the verdict because, among other things, the court chose a sentence below the lower limit of the statutory rate. Now, the case will be reviewed by the Supreme Court in Prague. Siman denies the allegations and claims that he only obeyed the orders of his superiors. In March 2022, Siman fought in the Ukrainian volunteer battalion Carpathian Sich despite not having permission from the country's president. He received basic training and weapons in Ukraine. Together with his paratrooper group, Siman was supposed to patrol the trenches in Irpyn and Bucha in Kyiv Oblast and conduct "cleansing operations," reports Hromadske. According to the indictment against him, Siman appropriated the belongings of deceased soldiers and civilians. Among the things he reportedly took possession of are a gold ring, gold and silver bars, other jewelry, cash, an e-book reader, Gucci sunglasses, and a breathing mask from an airplane. The ex-soldier said in his defense that his unit was based in the abandoned houses of Ukrainian residents, so it was "common for the fighters to use their things." Siman was detained by the Ukrainian military in April 2022 but later released and returned to Czechia. Read also: Czechia shows interest in Polands Ukrainian Legion project Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Dad Learns His 2 Daughters Died After Tracking Their Phones to Crash Site: 'Tremendous Loss' Sisters Hailey Trumble, 19, and Shelby Trumble, 17, died as a result of their injuries on Aug. 1, according to New York authorities GoFundMe (L-R) Hailey and Shelby Trumble Two sisters were killed in a motor vehicle crash in upstate New Yorks Cayuga County and their father discovered the tragic news after using an app to locate their phones. According to a news release from the Cayuga County Sheriff's Office, the crash occurred on Thursday, Aug. 1, in the town of Ira. Based on an investigation, the victims identified by authorities as sisters Hailey Trumble, 19, and Shelby Trumble, 17 were riding in a Chevy Cobalt traveling eastbound on Ira Hill Road when their car crested a hill and crossed into the opposite lane, striking a second vehicle." Related: Inseparable Brothers Killed in Crash After Getting Breakfast at Donut Shop They Visited for Decades Both Hailey and Shelby Trumble died as a result of the injuries they sustained at the time of this crash, the sheriffs office stated. Authorities said that the other driver was transported to Syracuse University Hospital with serious injuries where she remains in stable condition. In an interview with Syracuse.com, the sisters father, Brian Trumble, said he had texted his daughters several times the day of the crash when they didnt return home from an amusement park outing in Rochester. Using the Find My Friends app to track down their whereabouts via their phones, Brian Trumble got in his car and drove to their location, per the outlet. There he encountered deputies who had already sectioned off the roads. Its a tremendous loss, he told the outlet. Its never going to be the same again. Related: Two Brothers Dead in West Texas Crash That Injured Mom and Sibling: 'Great Sadness' Both from the town of Granby, Hailey and Shelby graduated high school in 2023 and 2024 respectively, FingerLakes1.com reported. In a statement shared with the outlet, the Hannibal Central School District wrote: This is an incredibly sad day for our students, faculty, and colleagues, and a tremendous loss for the entire community. Related: 6-Year-Old Boy Dead Days After Crash That Killed Parents and Brother: 'No Words for This Hurt' A GoFundMe was created on behalf of the sisters family to pay for funeral expenses, which has raised over $29,000 as of time of publication. In this devastating incident the Trumble family lost 2 girls at one time as daughters, sisters, granddaughters, and nieces, read a message on the fundraiser. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for your kindness, love, and support during this heart wrenching time." PEOPLE reached out to the GoFundMe organizer for additional information. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. A service is scheduled for the sisters on Saturday, Aug. 10, Syracuse.com reported. The cause of the crash remains unknown and police have said the investigation is active and ongoing. They've asked that anyone with information to call 315-253-1132. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Misinformation has spread like wildfire across social media since three children were killed in Southport last month, fuelling far-Right disorder throughout the country. But as he clashes with Sir Keir Starmer over the riots, can the likes of X owner Elon Musk be held responsible for what is published online? And is de-platforming necessary - or an affront to free speech? Plus, Democratic candidate Kamala Harris has named her pick for vice-president: Minnesota governor Tim Walz. Camilla and Tim ask if he can, ahem, Walz Harris to the White House - or if her campaign is already tripping over its own feet. Finally, its a common affliction when trying to enjoy the Great British seaside: having your chips snatched by a seagull. We reveal how to protect your seaside dinner this summer. Watch episodes of the Daily T here or on YouTube. Or if you would prefer to listen to the audio only, then use the player below. You can also listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts, and subscribe to The Daily T newsletter for updates. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. NEW DELHI, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Resigned Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening, confirmed Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday when speaking in parliament's upper house Rajya Sabha. This was the first time when the Indian government confirmed Hasina's presence in the country, after she fled Bangladesh on Monday following large scale violence. The minister told federal lawmakers that Hasina had sought India's approval to come to the country. "At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from the Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," Jaishankar said. Dangerous gunman gets 70 years in prison in Fort Worth-area robberies, killing of dog A 20-year-old man who pleaded guilty to robbing multiple North Texas stores and killing a clerks dog during one holdup was sentenced to 70 years in prison Thursday, according to the Tarrant County Criminal District Attorneys Office. Donavin Copeland committed six armed robberies in the Fort Worth and Saginaw areas between 2022 and 2023, according to court records. It was common for Copeland to shoot at the store clerk and steal the robbery victims vehicle to leave the scene, the DAs Office said in social media post. In a robbery on Jan. 2, 2023, Copeland opened fire at a convenience store at 6001 N. Main St, according to police. He fatally shot the store clerks small dog, named Peanut, the DAs Office said. He was charged with animal cruelty in Peanuts death. During another robbery at a game room, the defendant pistol-whipped a person, authorities said. More top stories from our newsroom: Man sentenced in retrial of killing at AT&T Stadium Reading scores show FWISD years behind national average County plans to pay guards' attorneys in jail death suit [Get our breaking news alerts.] Fort Worth Police Detective Brian Raynsford said in 2023 that he had never seen an aggravated robbery suspect like Copeland in his 12 years working with the Police Department. He is one of the most dangerous and violent individuals Ive seen, Raynsford said. The Fort Worth, Saginaw and White Settlement Police Departments investigated the case. Elizabeth Ha created the privacy-minded menstrual tracking app Monthly last year, after failing to find an option that felt safe enough to her following the Dobbs decision. (Courtesy of Elizabeth Ha) After the Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to abortion in 2022 and abortion was banned in the state of Tennessee, Dr. Danielle Kelvas quit using an app that tracked her menstrual cycle. It frightened me I actually got frightened because it tracked me for like, a week, Kelvas said of the Oura Ring feature Cycle Insights. And I thought, wheres this information going? Immediately following the Dobbs V. Jackson Supreme Court decision which struck down the constitutional right to abortion, data privacy experts cautioned to take a closer look at menstrual cycle tracking apps. Information logged into these apps, or tracked via wearable devices like a Fitbit or an Oura Ring, have the potential to be used in prosecuting those who seek abortions in states which criminalize it. Kelvas, a former emergency room physician, is a big fan of her Oura Ring. She researched the device which gives insight to users about their biometric data like heart rate and sleep quality thoroughly before buying it. When the company rolled out its menstrual tracking feature, called Cycle Insights, she was excited to try it. But when she started reading more into the terms of agreement, she couldnt find clear cut information about how the data was stored, how secure it was, or if it was encrypted. States Newsroom reached out to Oura for clarification on its privacy policy for Cycle Insights, but the request for comment was not returned. Kelvas, 34, lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where abortion is banned, with only the exception of preventing death for the expectant person. The law, a trigger ban that went into effect in August 2022, also makes obtaining or performing an abortion a criminal offense. So I deleted it, Kelvas said of the app. Opal Pandya is in the same boat. The 25-year old Philadelphian deleted the app Flo, after reading case studies about data releases to external third parties. She also took note when she started suddenly getting targeted ads on Instagram for products that would help soothe period symptoms shed just logged in Flo. I realized my data was flowing across multiple platforms, she said. She didnt feel comfortable with that, and didnt have the time to figure out who had access to that data. The final straw was learning that third-party data could be available to states in prosecuting abortions banned under their laws. Pandya also opted out of her Apple Watchs cycle tracking after trying it for a while, and has stopped wearing it to bed, as it tracks ovulation cycles via temperature at night while sleeping. Healthcare privacy has always been something Pandyas been wary of, she said, and while theres benefits of tracking menstrual information, the Dobbs decision showed her there could be serious consequences of that data being vulnerable. I have always been sensitive about my health information and understand theres a strong distrust of the medical system as a whole, Pandya said. And overturning Roe v. Wade did nothing but solidify and spread that distrust, especially among minority women. Kelvas, who now owns a medical writing service and is a consultant for software company IT Medical, is acutely aware of those delicacies of navigating menstrual tracking. As a physician, she said she cant emphasize enough how important it is that people have access to cycle tracking. Its one of the few tools people have to be in more control of family planning and their reproductive health, as some states attack access to birth control. But her experience in health care IT has highlighted how easy it is for sensitive data to go unprotected. Many people think all healthcare information is protected under the federal privacy law, known as HIPAA. But menstrual cycle tracking apps, along with other healthcare technologies, like texting platforms that patients can use with doctors, are not. In highly restrictive states, Kelvas said its challenging to navigate your reproductive rights It doesnt really matter what we do, were always in trouble, she said. For a lot of women, suddenly becoming pregnant means that they are illegal, Kelvas said. And what do you do after that? You know, for a lot of people, the reality is that they just dont own their uterus anymore. What data is up for grabs? There havent been any cases where a menstrual tracking apps data has been subpoenaed yet, but thats probably due to the slow speed of which cases proceed through the court system, said Jake Laperruque, deputy director of the Center for Democracy and Technologys Security and Surveillance Project. There have been few cases of electronic data of any form being subpoenaed yet, but via their terms and conditions, many companies leave themselves vulnerable to having to hand data over to prosecutors or courts. Laperruque warned that the data that could be used to prosecute abortion cases could be more far-reaching than just whats logged in a period tracking app. There are a lot of really innocuous seeming data in healthcare location information, communications, metadata patterns and even information you dont know youre generating, Laperruque said. If social media apps have access to your location, for example, prosecutors could timestamp your visit at an abortion providers office through the location data of any number of apps. Data collected by apps, wearables, could potentially now be used by law enforcement or even private individuals, seeking to sue or target people for exercising reproductive choice and seeking out information or care around abortion, he said. Digital footprints have been used in prosecuting reproductive cases even before the Dobbs decision. In 2018, a woman in Mississippi was charged with second-degree murder after she gave birth to a stillborn baby at home. Part of the prosecutions case noted that she had researched how to terminate a pregnancy in the past. Last year, a teenager in Nebraska was convicted for terminating a pregnancy after prosecutors subpoenaed Facebook messages between her and her mother. How to assess data privacy For now, most of the responsibility to protect a users data falls on the user themselves, said Andrew Crawford, a healthcare privacy-focused senior counsel with the Center for Democracy and Technology. It really is incumbent on users to do their homework, Crawford said. And unfortunately, sometimes that means reading really dense privacy policies and looking for keywords. The terms and conditions of an app or a wearable device need to spell out what data its collecting, what it does with that data and who else may have access. An app may automatically seek access to things like your contacts, your geolocation, or photos, but you may not have to give it those full permissions. Period tracking apps often share information with data brokers, advertisers or third parties that are hard to track. Users should also pay attention to how an app treats the data it gets. A keyword to look for is encryption, or data thats changed into a secret code that can only be unlocked with a unique digital key. Data thats stored locally on your device also tends to be safer than data thats stored in a cloud, Crawford said. It would be a lot harder for law enforcement to access encrypted data stored only on your device rather than if they can subpoena a company for it. Theres always risk as long as data is logged somewhere, Laperruque said. But police are only going to be able to search your phone if they hand you a warrant and seize the phone, he said. Most wearable devices that collect biometric data have some encryption aspect. Apples privacy policy says that when your device is locked, all your health and fitness data thats on the device and synced to iCloud is encrypted. This means that when you use the Cycle Tracking feature and have enabled two-factor authentication, your health data synced to iCloud is encrypted end-to-end and Apple does not have the key to decrypt the data and therefore cannot read it, the company said. Fitbit and Oura Ring say they use encryption measures, too. All three companies say that they have to comply with subpoena requests by law enforcement agencies. The cost of your data App developer Elizabeth Ha, 27, of Los Angeles, built cycle tracking app Monthly in response to the Dobbs v. Jackson decision. All of the health data inputted into the app is stored privately on your device, and doesnt enter a database. You can delete your app (and subsequently, your data) at any time, and Monthly does not make your data available to anyone but the user. Ha had been a long-time user of one period tracker app, but the Dobbs decision and the attention that data privacy was getting at the time, forced her to take a harder look at where she was logging her information. Once your data gets sent to these data warehouses, its like a little bit of a black box, she said. She feels pretty secure about her reproductive rights in California, but you never know whats going to happen or who else might need a more secure option, she said of Monthly, which released on the app store late last year. The field of mobile apps is so new, developing in the last decade or so, she said, and it evolves so quickly. The reason so many period trackers are free is that theyre built by larger companies that can collect and sell your data, Ha said. For them to be a business, a lot of the business is selling the data, she said. Many Americans are waiting for a comprehensive, federal data privacy overhaul. The American Privacy Rights Act was proposed in congress in May, which would require covered entities to be transparent about how they use consumer data and give consumers the right to access, correct, delete, and export their data, as well as opt out of targeted advertising and data transfers. It would also mandate that a covered entity could not collect or transfer to a third party biometric data without the individuals affirmative express consent. For now, those who wish to keep data related to their reproductive health safe, should be vigilant about the terms and conditions of the devices and the platforms they use. It just kind of speaks to the importance of both the surveillance and consumer data side of upgrading the laws, Laperruque said. We have to be more protective. TV actor Akili McDowell's arrest on suspicion of killing and theft is "an unfortunate situation," his manager says. (Willy Sanjuan / Invision / Associated Press) Actor Akili McDowell, a TV actor whose credits include series "David Makes Man" and "Billions," is behind bars for his alleged killing of a 20-year-old man in Houston. McDowell, 21, was charged with murder and theft and arrested last week, according to the Harris County jail database. Houston officials allege that McDowell is responsible for the death of Cesar Peralta in a July shooting. "This is an unfortunate situation and I am in prayer for Akili and those impacted by this tragedy. I respectfully have no comment at this time," Jonell White, McDowell's manager, said in a statement shared with The Times. Read more: Johnny Wactor slaying: LAPD investigation focuses on gang members tied to catalytic converter thefts The Harris County Sheriff's Office said deputies responded July 20 to an incident in the parking lot of an apartment complex at 13503 North Thorntree in northeast Houston. Police said in a statement that a man, later identified as Peralta, suffered gunshot wounds in the incident and was pronounced dead at the scene. McDowell allegedly fled the site of the shooting, police said. McDowell was booked Aug. 1 and remained in jail Monday on $400,000 bond for the murder charge and $210 for the theft charge. He is due to appear in court Tuesday. The investigation into McDowell's alleged killing of Peralta is ongoing, police said. McDowell's TV credits also include "The Astronaut Wives Club," "Chase the Lion" and "I Am Athlete." He has also starred in films including "The Waterboyz" and "Criminal Activities." Sign up for Screen Gab, a free newsletter about the TV and movies everyones talking about from the L.A. Times. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. When UNC-Chapel Hill administrators closed the Campus Y building this spring, outcry from students and alumni was immediate. And while the building reopened under limited hours less than a week after it closed, student leaders have continued to feel that the fate of the space is unsettled. The Campus Y is widely known as a campus hub for student activism and social justice at the university, with more than 30 student-run committees advancing a variety of causes. The Campus Y building, which houses the student organization and a division of the universitys Student Affairs department, has stood on campus for more than 100 years. Administrators closed the building for safety reasons following a pro-Palestinian tent encampment on campus this spring, specifically citing that doors to the space were propped open after-hours during the protest, which violates university policy. Leaders said they would continue to monitor the building after they reopened it in May. Now, a new committee formed by interim Chancellor Lee Roberts will work to find a solution for how the building can be used going forward. The 15-member committee chaired by former Chancellor James Moeser and former Board of Trustees Chair Richard Stevens met for the first time Friday, with Roberts delivering his charge to the group. They are tasked with making recommendations for the governance and use of the offices, classrooms and gathering spaces in the building by Nov. 1. The Campus Y, obviously, has a long-standing importance to the student body and to the community at-large, Roberts told the committee. This is crucial work that deserves careful consideration. So, what did the group discuss during its first meeting? And what might they seek to address in their work? Welcome to Deans List, a roundup of higher education news in the Triangle and across North Carolina from The News & Observer and myself, Korie Dean. This weeks edition includes more information about the Campus Y committee, an update on the ongoing search for a new UNC chancellor and more. Committee tasked with deciding Campus Ys future Roberts and Christi Hurt, his chief of staff, indicated that the committee is part of a larger effort to analyze how building space is used at the university, not tying it to the protests this spring. But Moeser took an opportunity about halfway into the meeting to address an elephant in the room. The elephant in the room is the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, Moeser said. And there were actions taken by the Palestinians and their friends on campus that I think threatened, threaten, the independence of the Y. We just have to acknowledge that reality. Stevens noted that the groups charge is not to weigh-in on the structure of human affairs, but instead to strictly consider rules around access to the building and the spaces within it. No matter the decisions the group makes, though, the chairs and Roberts made clear that the work will not result in the Campus Y closing. There are no intents that I know of by you or anybody else, chancellor, to close this facility, Stevens said. Roberts replied: The future use of the Y will be driven by the recommendations of this working group. We want to identify the highest and best use. Thats why we brought this group of folks together to make recommendations about that. Theres no ulterior behind it. UNC-Chapel Hill Interim Chancellor Lee Roberts addresses the board of trustees during a meeting in Chapel Hill, N.C. on Thursday, May 16, 2024. Much of Fridays meeting was dedicated to ensuring committee members had a basic understanding of the Campus Y building and how it is currently used. The space is the home of the UNC Y department, which is a division of Student Affairs, and the Campus Y student organization. (While the two entities, along with the building itself, have historically shared the Campus Y name, administrators recently changed the student affairs departments name to UNC Y, appearing to draw clearer distinctions between the entities.) Among other uses, both the UNC Y and the Campus Y student organization use office space in the building, while a separate lounge in the space is dedicated to faculty use and is overseen by the Office of Faculty Governance. Two classrooms in the building are managed by the registrar, with classes meeting in the spaces during the academic year. The building also houses a student-run coffee shop and a grab-and-go food market, among other features. Committee members talked at-length about how spaces in the building are governed and how they can be reserved and by whom. (Per Roberts charge, the Anne Queen Faculty Lounge will continue to be governed by faculty, regardless of any other decisions the committee makes.) Moeser and Stevens indicated that the process to reserve any space in the building should be made clearer, particularly for student groups that are not a subcommittee of the Campus Y organization. While Campus Y student members are likely familiar with the space and how to reserve it, they said that might not be the case for non-Campus Y groups, which could lead to disproportionate opportunities to use or reserve the spaces. But current Campus Y members and alumni on the committee indicated that new reservation processes for the spaces could contradict a feeling of the building being home for subcommittees and the students that lead them. It sounds like we need some clarification over those issues affecting students, Moeser said. The committee did not make any decisions about the building Friday. The group will continue to meet weekly, on Friday afternoons, until their Nov. 1 deadline or they complete their work whichever comes first. UNC Chancellor Emeritus and Professor James Moeser speaks during an emergency faculty meeting on Tuesday September 18, 2012 at the Fedex Global Education Center in Chapel Hill. UNC trustees hear update from chancellor search committee In other affairs at UNC, were a couple of steps closer to learning who the universitys 13th chancellor will be. The search committee tasked with finding the next leader concluded its work last week, interviewing at least three candidates for the job over two days of closed-door meetings. On Monday, search chair Cristy Page, executive dean of the UNC School of Medicine, presented the committees report to the Board of Trustees. The board met for less than an hour and approved an unranked slate of three candidates to forward to UNC System President Peter Hans for his consideration. He is tasked with submitting a single finalist to the system Board of Governors for their approval. As N&O intern Emmy Martin and I reported last week, the names of the finalists, as well as those of anyone else who applied or interviewed for the job, are confidential. Thats per UNC System policy, which keeps dictates that none of the names and identities of the chancellor candidates, semi-finalists or finalists may be released to the public even after the search is over. The only name officially available to the public will likely be the one who is chosen to become chancellor by Hans and is approved in a public meeting. UNCs South Building, which houses the chancellors office, is framed by columns of the Old Well on the Chapel Hill campus. Higher ed news Im reading While outright bans on tenure have failed across the country, other efforts have weakened the faculty protections, Inside Higher Ed reports. Which colleges are boasting the most Olympic medalists this year? The Chronicle of Higher Education is keeping track. Sign up for The N&Os higher ed newsletter Thats all for this roundup of North Carolina higher education news. I hope youll stay tuned for more. Like what you read here and want to be on our mailing list? Have suggestions for what kind of content youd like to see featured in the future? Let us know by filling out the form below: Hurricane Debby may have made landfall in the Steinhatchee area Monday morning but its impacts could be felt throughout Alachua County in the form of heavy rains, flooding, downed trees, sinkholes and widespread power outages. According to the National Weather Service Jacksonville office, the storm dumped between 5 and 9 inches of rain in various parts of the county, and a weather station on the University of Florida campus recorded a maximum wind speed of 54 mph. The county saw peak power outages of almost 23,000 customers after 8:30 a.m. Monday, according to data from findenergy.com, an online website that compares local electricity rates throughout the U.S. Gainesville Regional Utilities reported a high of 9,609 customers without power just after 8 a.m. Monday. Tree trimmers were out ahead of Duke Energy workers Monday morning preparing to repair power lines along U.S. 441 and Southeast County Road 346 in Micanopy. Hurricane Debby: Impacts in Alachua County include downed trees, flooding As of 11:45 a.m. Tuesday, close to 8,500 county residents were still without power, the majority of those in rural areas. Clay Electric was still working to reconnect almost 4,500 customers while Duke Energy still had 2,500 customers without power. GRU, which still had 675 customers without power, brought in outside help to deal with several broken poles. Ramon Gavarrete, the public works director for Alachua County, said Tuesday morning that his crews had removed about 85 trees from county roadways. "Which I believe is probably one of the higher numbers we have removed after a storm," he said. "Once the soils are as saturated as they are right now, the trees keep falling. So I expect more trees to fall today." Some roads closed due to fallen trees and power lines included a section of Southwest 170th Street just north of its intersection with Southwest 15th Avenue, the 8700 block of Southwest 24th Avenue, and U.S. 41 just south of the city of Archer. A large sinkhole opened up Monday in the water detention area of the Avalon Woods development in Newberry following heavy rains from Hurricane Debby. At least two sinkholes were reported Monday, one near the Alachua-Gilchrist County line that closed eastbound traffic on West Newberry Road, and the other in a retention pond in the Avalon Woods neighborhood off U.S. 41 in Newberry. Crews with the Florida Department of Transportation filled the sinkhole along Newberry Road overnight Monday, while the Avalon Woods developer was expected to begin work on that sinkhole Tuesday. Despite all of the rain, flooding issues in the county were minor. The Weatherly subdivision off Southwest 23rd Avenue near Fort Clark Boulevard had flooding in both directions inside its entrance, with water beginning to creep up some residents' driveways. The water has since receded. A few miles southwest, the entrance to the Hayes Glen subdivision off Southwest Eight Avenue was flooded, as were the yards of a couple of homes. One home with a large front yard appeared to have water nearly all the way to its front door. A mobile pump was setup to help with the problem. The Weatherly neighborhood off Northwest 23rd Avenue in Gainesville was flooded Monday following rains from Hurricane Debby. The usual flood-prone neighborhoods of Robin Lane and the Hills of Sante Fe were spared thanks to permanent pumps installed by the county. Gavarrete said the pumping stations worked "wonderfully." "That's a great feeling, believe me," he said. "Thanks to the board for authorizing us to buy pumps and doing the improvements that we have done. We did have a few roads that went underwater for a few minutes, but nothing big."One of those roads was a small section of westbound Newberry Road, which closed at Northwest 98th Street near Westside Baptist Church just before 9 a.m. after flooding caused at least two cars to stall. The road reopened a short time later. This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Hurricane Debby leaves mark on Gainesville and Alachua County By Rich McKay and Tyler Clifford ATLANTA (Reuters) -Tropical Storm Debby inundated coastal Georgia and South Carolina with a deluge of rain on Tuesday that could bring "catastrophic flooding" to Charleston, Savannah and other cities in the southeastern United States, the National Hurricane Center said. At least six people have died in Florida and Georgia in the wake of the storm, which is expected to linger over the southeastern and mid-Atlantic coasts for days. "Debby is expected to produce potentially historic rainfall totals of 10 to 20 inches (25 cm and 51 cm), with maximum amounts of 25 inches (63.5 cm), bringing areas of catastrophic flooding across portions of the eastern half of South Carolina, and southeast North Carolina through Friday," the NHC said. The governors of those states have declared states of emergency. The storm featured 40-mile-per-hour (64 kph) winds as it chugged along slowly at 5 mph (8 kph) to the northeast, with its center located about 50 miles (80 km) east of Savannah, Georgia, on Tuesday night. Heavy rainfall could cause flooding in parts of the mid-Atlantic through Sunday, the Miami-based center said. More than 8 inches (20 cm) of rain have already fallen on Savannah and Valdosta, Georgia, the National Weather Service said. Charleston and Hilton Head, South Carolina, have received between 10 and 12 inches (25 and 30 cm) of rain so far, the weather service said, with more on the way. In Savannah, rain was coming down hard outside the landmark Bellwether House, a 16-room bed-and-breakfast in the city's historic district, but general manager Victoria Hill was not too concerned. "This place was built in 1876," she said. "It's built rock-solid, and you can imagine how many storms have hit over the last century." Hill said many tourists had canceled their reservations because of the storm, but a handful of guests were staying on. "We here, we're open and we're holding up. We'll all ride this out together." Charleston Mayor William Cogswell said more than 2 feet (61 cm) of rain was expected in his city before the storm passes. Even at low tide, storm surges of between 4 and 6 feet (1.2 and 1.8 meters) will prevent floodwaters from draining into the sea, he said. There are "not enough pumps in the world" to handle that much rain, Cogswell said late on Monday. He has since extended a citywide curfew until Wednesday morning. "Nobody should be out on the streets in these conditions unless it is an absolute emergency," the mayor said. About 50 miles (80 km) west of Charleston, fears of a breach at the McGrady Dam in Colleton County, part of the state's Lowcountry, prompted the county sheriff's office to warn residents to evacuate immediately on Tuesday. Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane in the Big Bend region of Florida's Gulf Coast on Monday morning, dumping 8 to 16 inches (20 to 41 cm) of rain in parts of central Florida, according to local reports. The storm has been blamed for five deaths in Florida and one near Valdosta, Georgia. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said the city could expect a "once-in-a-thousand-year" rain event. "This will literally create islands in the city," Johnson said. Cedrick King, a businessman from coastal Brunswick, Georgia, said he and his family had packed up their belongings on Tuesday and were ready to make the five-hour drive to Atlanta. "We're headed north, far away from this storm," he said. (Reporting by Rich McKay in Atlanta and Tyler Clifford in New York City; Editing by Sandra Maler and Stephen Coates) Debby dumps 8 inches of rain on Savannah; storm surge risk 'probably about over' Cars were left stranded on White Bluff Road in high flood waters from Haneys Creek following heavy rains from Tropical Storm Debby. As the center of Hurricane Debbys remnants settled directly over Chatham County at mid-day Tuesday, forecasters said the primary impact of the slow-moving storm is now being felt along the South Carolina coast. Among the diminished threats for coastal areas around Savannah are rising waters being pushed ashore, where they can cause flooding, erosion and structural damage. The storm surge inundation is probably about over (for Georgia) with the storm being right near the coast, and the flow becoming northwest later this afternoon, pushing water back out, said National Weather Service meteorologist Ron Morales. While precipitation was light and winds relatively calm Tuesday morning, showers and some thunderstorms are expected in the Savannah area Tuesday afternoon, bringing more potential heavy rain and high winds. Even if it's not really raining much right now, you get a burst, especially over urbanized areas or areas that are already ponded up, it won't take much to re-flood things, Morales cautioned. So keep that in mind, even though you might feel like you're kind of out of the woods, a good, strong band of showers and maybe even a thunderstorm ... could bring things back into a flood situation very quickly. Windy conditions are expected to continue at least through Thursday. Tripped up: Climate change can be vacation complication for visitors to Savannah, other coastal areas Same, but different Savannah experienced its fourth round of flooding over the past two weeks on Monday. Nearly 3.5 inches of rain fell over a three-hour period at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport late in the afternoon. The deluge swamped many streets just in time for rush hour. Downtown Savannah experienced more than 8 inches of rain over a 24-hour period beginning at noon Monday. Other area gauges recorded similar totals much different than the three previous rounds of flooding when moisture-fueled popup storms produced varying totals. For example, on July 29, as nearly 4 inches of rain fell over a few hours at Hunter Army Airfield, Savannah/Hilton International Airport reported no precipitation at all. The Savannah area already has exceeded its average rainfall for all of August. The city's highest single-day total ever was 9 inches on Sept. 16, 1924. Looking ahead Here is a look at the short-term forecast for the Savannah area from the National Weather Service: Tuesday: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. High near 81. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible. Tuesday night: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Low around 75. Northwest wind 8 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible. Wednesday: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. High near 85. Breezy, with a northwest wind 18 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New rainfall amounts between three quarters and one inch possible. John Deem covers climate change and the environment in coastal Georgia. He can be reached at 912-652-0213 or jdeem@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Debby dumps 8 inches of rain on Savannah, now swamping SC coast Debby fact check: Myrtle Beach area storm drains clogged? Here is what we found out Are storm drains clogged in the City of Myrtle Beach and other municipalities even before Tropical Storm Debbys full strength arrives in the Grand Strand? The simple answer to that question is no, according to city spokeswoman Meredith Denari. And how about for North Myrtle Beach? Their citys spokeswoman, Lauren Jessie, said on Tuesday, They are doing great. We started cleaning them twice a day at each low tide cycle, Jessie said to The Sun News via text message. We send crews out who inspect each drain to clear out any debris that may be collecting. They are also inspecting each outfall ditch to ensure no blockages. For Myrtle Beach, Denari said the citys Public Works Department has roughly 9,500 drainage structures on a maintenance program, which equates to 185 miles of storm drains. Denari added that the South Carolina Department of Transportation is responsible for all drains along state roads, but that the citys crew cleaned some of them up on Monday in preparation for the storm. Many cities do not have a vactor truck to clean storm drains, we are lucky enough to have one, she said via email. With that said - in addition to our maintenance program, we of course rely on residents to report clogged storm drains when they see them. Vactor trucks are designed vehicles that provide municipalities and contractors with industrial vacuum truck services, and also assist with cleaning and excavation tasks like sewer and storm drain cleaning, according to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. According to Denari, Myrtle Beachs Public Works Department has roughly 160 full-time employees who are part of various subdivisions of the department. She said that if residents see something wrong with a storm drain in their neighborhood, they should feel free to notify them of the issue. People can contact the Department of Public Works at their phone number at 843-918-2000. It helps greatly when a pair of eyes from one of the citys 40,000 residents sees an issue and calls it in, Denari said. That storm drain is then investigated by the Stormwater Team and added to the next round of maintenance. She explained that the citys consistent drain maintenance helps keep flood insurance rates low for residents who have it. That system works similarly to the fire departments Insurance Services Office rating. Debbys rains will likely soak the ground in NC. What that means for power outages. Heavy rains expected this week from whats now Tropical Storm Debby likely will saturate the ground in much of North Carolina, leaving some trees and even power poles vulnerable to being uprooted by gusty winds. Toppled trees and poles can mean downed power lines that cause spotty to widespread outages. What is soil saturation? Normally, soil has voids where it can take in water, easily absorbing average amounts of rainfall. Saturated soil occurs during periods of heavy or extended rainfall when rainwater fills all the voids, leaving no more spaces. Saturated soil doesnt hold together as well as unsaturated soil, becoming muddy and pliable. Tree roots, which create friction with unsaturated soil as a tree rocks in the wind, are more likely to slip and slide through saturated soil, reducing the trees stability and increasing the chance it will uproot and fall in high winds. Above-average rainfall in July wiped out the drought in about half of North Carolina, but the other half remains abnormally dry. Flash flooding is possible from Tropical Storm Debby in areas where the ground is too parched to absorb heavy rains, and in areas where the ground is saturated. How much rain does it take to saturate the ground? The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says it takes 2 to 2.5 inches of rain to saturate the soil to a depth of about 8 inches. In his blog on Monday, Assistant State Climatologist Corey Davis said that after the second-driest June on record for the state overall, North Carolina saw the 11th-wettest July since record-keeping began in 1895. Preliminary totals show a statewide average rainfall of 8.29 inches for the month, Davis said, more than 3 inches above the average from 1991 to 2020. While every county in the state was in some level of drought on July 9, by July 30, when the most recent drought map was published, half the state showed no drought at all and the other half showed abnormally dry with just a few counties in moderate drought. In areas where the ground is parched or saturated meteorologists say, heavy rains tend to run off, causing flash flooding. Most of North Carolina will get rain from Tropical Storm Debby, meteorologists say. In some places, up to 16 inches could fall. Trees along creeks and rivers may fall as a result of flooding that erodes the soil around their roots. How much rain is coming? Debby is a slow-moving storm carrying a lot of moisture, and meteorologists say it could drop record-setting amounts of rainfall in southeast Georgia and coastal South Carolina. As it comes into North Carolina, Debby is expected to bring: 12 to 16 inches of rain in the extreme southeastern corner of the state; 8 to 12 inches of rain in the area reaching horizontally from Anson County to Pamlico County; 6 to 8 inches in a crescent from Union County to Hatteras Island, including Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill; 4 to 6 inches in a crescent from Charlotte to the northern Outer Banks; 2 to 4 inches in the foothills west of Charlotte; 1 to 2 inches in much of the mountains. North Carolina could see some tropical storm-force winds of at least 39 mph as Tropical Storm Debby moves through the Southeast this week. Raleigh could see gusts of up to 18 mph on Wednesday, forecasters say. How st rong are Debbys winds? The National Hurricane Center forecasts as of Monday showed a 5% to 20% likelihood of tropical storm-force winds in much of North Carolina as Debby moves through or near the state. A few small areas near the coast have a 30% chance of tropical storm-force winds, meaning sustained winds of at least 39 mph. Basil Camu, a master arborist with Leaf & Limb of Raleigh, said Monday he doesnt expect widespread loss of trees as a result of Debby because the wind speeds will be relatively low. He said some trees are likely to fall along creeks and rivers, however, because of flooding from heaving rains eroding the soil around the roots. Trees that are diseased or have been damaged, such as having some of their roots bulldozed for a house addition, he said, also could be vulnerable. Otherwise, he said, in much of North Carolina, Our trees and flowers and grasses are still feeling a little dry, so the rain will actually be a good thing for our plants. Is Duke Energy worried? Duke Energy, the largest electric utility in North Carolina, is bracing for the impacts of Tropical Storm Debby. Logan Stewart, communications manager for Duke Energy in Charlotte, said Monday the companys meteorologists were saying its too early to know what effects the storm will have. Where heavy rain and flooding do bring down trees onto power lines, she said, it complicates the process of restoring power. Customers sometimes get impatient, she said, because it can take takes two crews to restore power after a tree falls: one to cut and remove the tree safely and a second to repair damaged lines. With a storm like Debby, Stewart said, We may see a lot of scattered outages, individual pockets with one, two, three, four or five customers out. But there will be a lot of them. And we physically send line workers to every single outage. We cant just flip a switch. Duke has sent 350 crew members from the Midwest to help with power outages in Florida, Stewart said, and some of those line workers can come to North Carolina to help out if needed. Meanwhile, she said, customers should make plans to relocate if the power goes out if they have household members who need electricity to survive. Duke customers can sign up for alerts and updates about outages at their addresses, and can monitor widespread outages on interactive maps the company updates frequently. HANOI, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's capital Hanoi reported the first death of streptococcus suis so far this year, a bacterium that comes from pigs, local media reported Tuesday. An 86-year-old woman in Quoc Oai district reportedly died of the infection. She was sent for a health check-up at 103 Military Hospital on Monday after having high fever, headache and feeling drowsy. The source of infection has not been identified. Since early this year, the city reported seven human cases of streptococcus suis including one death. According to Hanoi Center for Disease Control, most of the human cases were infected after the patients slaughtered pigs, ate blood jelly or uncooked pork. Debbys latest path, forecast: How and when tropical storm remnants could impact Massachusetts Tropical storm Debby, which made landfall in Florida as a Category 1 hurricane on Monday, will track north up the Atlantic coast this week. The storm killed at least five people on Monday and is causing flash flooding with torrential downpours across the U.S. Southeast. CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: Christy Hatcher checks on her neighborhood as high winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate the area on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: A person looks on at a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: High winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: Buildings sit along the coast line as the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: Christy Hatcher checks on her neighborhood as high winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate the area on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: People walk through a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: A person walks through a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: Joey Larsen checks on his neighborhood as high winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate the area on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: A Florida National Guard vehicle drives through a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: A Florida National Guard vehicle drives through a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: High winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: Surf crashes against a dock a high winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: A person looks on at a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: A person looks on at a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: Joey Larsen checks on his neighborhood as high winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate the area on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: High winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: Buildings sit along the coast line as the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: A person walks through a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: Jaiden Skinner (L) and Nani Hicks check on their neighborhood as high winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate the area on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: Florida National Guard vehicles drive through a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: A Florida National Guard vehicle drives through a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: A street is flooded as the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CHIEFLAND, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: Wind and rain kicked up by Hurricane Debby blow through a street on August 05, 2024 in Chiefland, Florida. Hurricane Debby is bringing rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: In an aerial view, people look out onto a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: A Florida National Guard vehicle drives through a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: High winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: People walk through a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: Christy Hatcher checks on her neighborhood as high winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate the area on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: High winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: High winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: In an aerial view, a Florida National Guard vehicle drives through a flooded street from the rain and storm surge caused by Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: In an aerial view, a person walks next to a flooded street caused by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CHIEFLAND, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: Wind and rain kicked up by Hurricane Debby blow through a hotel parking lot on August 05, 2024 in Chiefland, Florida. Hurricane Debby is bringing rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA - AUGUST 05: In an aerial view, a Florida National Guard vehicle drives through a flooded street from the rain and storm surge caused by Hurricane Debby on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Floridas Big Bend area. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) A man walks through storm surge on the flooded road into Horseshoe Beach, Fla., Monday morning, Aug. 5, 2024. Hurricane Debby made landfall early this morning. (AP Photo/Christopher O'Meara) A BMW sedan is stalled in high water along southbound US Alt 19 in Tarpon Springs, Fla., Monday morning, Aug 5, 2024, as Hurricane Debby passes the Tampa Bay area offshore. (Douglas R. Clifford/Tampa Bay Times via AP) Flood water blocks a section of Dodecanese Blvd at the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, Monday morning, Aug 5, 2024, in Tarpon Springs, Fla., as Hurricane Debby passes the Tampa Bay area offshore. (Douglas R. Clifford/Tampa Bay Times via AP) A bench is submerged in water near the R.E. Olds Park, Monday morning, Aug. 5, 2024, in Oldsmar Fla., as Hurricane Debby passes the Tampa Bay area offshore. (Jefferee Woo//Tampa Bay Times via AP) Water almost reaches houses along Shore Drive East near R.E. Olds Park, Monday morning, Aug. 5, 2024, in Oldsmar Fla., as Hurricane Debby passes the Tampa Bay area offshore. (Jefferee Woo//Tampa Bay Times via AP) A vehicle is disabled in the flood water along S. 22nd street, Monday morning, Aug. 5, 2024 in Tampa, Fla., as Hurricane Debby passes the Tampa Bay area offshore. ( (Luis Santana//Tampa Bay Times via AP) A driver negotiates a flooded street in the Shore Acres area Monday morning, Aug. 5, 2024, St. Petersburg, Fla., as Hurricane Debby passes the Tampa Bay area offshore. (Max Chesnes/Tampa Bay Times via AP) Flooding is seen near homes as The Don CeSar looms in the background Monday morning, Aug. 5, 2024 in St. Pete Beach, Fla., as Hurricane Debby passes the Tampa Bay area offshore. (Max Chesnes/Tampa Bay Times via AP) This GOES-16 GeoColor satellite image taken at 8:11 a.m. EDT and provided by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows Hurricane Debby, a Category 1 storm over northern Florida, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. (NOAA via AP) This GOES-16 GeoColor satellite image taken at 8:16 a.m. EDT and provided by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows Hurricane Debby, lower left, a Category 1 storm over northern Florida, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. (NOAA via AP) As of right now, it doesnt look like Massachusetts will dodge Debby. The storms heavy rain bands could start impacting New England by the end of the week. Tropical downpours will arrive Friday into Saturday, leading to a flooding concern across the region, Boston 25 Metrologist Vicki Graf said in her latest forecast. The storm itself will continue to weaken and fall apart but well have all of that rainfall to deal with by Friday and Saturday, Graf explained. Its too early to predict exact storm totals from Debby but Massachusetts could get soaked by 2-3 inches of rainfall over two days. High-end totals up to 5-7 cannot be ruled out at this point either, Graf wrote in her latest weather blog. Flash flooding will be a concern for any vulnerable areas. For the latest on the storm, visit the Boston 25 Weather page. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Hurricane Debby made landfall as a Category 1 storm about 7 a.m. Monday. It made landfall at Steinhatchee, in Florida's Big Bend region, and its bands brought wind, rain and power outages to Marion County. How much rain did Ocala get during Hurricane Debby? Marion is a big county, so rainfall levels vary from place to place. The Marion County Sheriff's Office's Division of Emergency Management said the highest rainfall total it saw recorded on Monday was 7.89 inches at Candler. The National Water Prediction Service, part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, has a mapping tool that shows estimated precipitation. For the city of Ocala, rainfall was estimated at 1.3 inches to 1.5 inches on Sunday and 4.67 inches to 5.06 inches on Monday. The estimates were as high as 8 inches of rain in west Marion on Monday alone. Later Tuesday, the National Weather Service released rainfall totals for the entire Hurricane Debby event that were recorded throughout the county. The amounts ranged from 3.97 inches at Lake George in the Ocala National Forest to 11.09 inches at a point in southwest Ocala. How strong was the wind in Ocala during Hurricane Debby? Again, it varies from place to place. The Division of Emergency Management said the highest reported wind speed was 41 mph at the Ocala International Airport. How many calls for downed trees in Marion County during Hurricane Debby? At Tuesday's county commission meeting, Chair Michelle Stone said the county received 100 calls for service concerning downed trees. That does not include calls received by the cities of Ocala, Belleview or Dunnellon, How many power outages did Ocala and Marion County have during Hurricane Debby? The number varied throughout the day Sunday and Monday, but at one point Monday more than 18,000 customers were without power. Storm news: Debby weakens, slows down after Florida landfall. 'Historic heavy rainfall' possible As of 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, 5,909 customers remained without power. That included 5,105 from Duke Energy, 776 from Clay Electric, 26 from Ocala Electric Utility and two from SECO. Tuesday afternoon, in a news release, Duke Energy said it planned to have 95% of customers in Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion and Sumter counties restored by 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, and many sooner than that. The utility noted that it had power restored for 90% of customers within 24 hours of Debby making landfall. calendar@starbanner.com This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: Ocala, Florida wind and rain details from Hurricane Debby Debris from broken Vineyard Wind turbine now washing up on Cape Cod beaches, officials say Debris from broken Vineyard Wind turbine now washing up on Cape Cod beaches, officials say Debris from a giant Vineyard Wind turbine blade that broke apart in the water off Nantucket in July is now washing up on beaches on Cape Cod. A Vineyard Wind turbine nearly as tall as the Eiffel Tower experienced significant blade damage on the evening of July 13, according to developers of the offshore wind project. Officials on Nantucket have been reminding beachgoers to keep an eye out for broken pieces of the blade in recent weeks. The Cape town of Falmouth issued a similar warning on Tuesday. Falmouth officials say what is believed to be Vineyard Wind turbine debris has been spotted in the water and on the shore at Black Beach, Chapoquoit Beach, Woodneck Beach, and Old Silver Beach. The Town is actively monitoring the situation and taking action to remove debris that washes ashore, protect public safety, and hold Vineyard Wind responsible for the cost of cleanup, Falmouth officials said in a statement. Vineyard Wind is sending cleanup crews today to begin removing the debris from the water and the beach. The maker of the massive wind turbine blade says a manufacturing problem was responsible. The federal Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement said that operations at Vineyard Wind have been suspended until it can be determined whether the blade failure impacts other turbine blades on the development. GE Vernova and Vineyard Wind have been working with the Coastguard to track ocean currents and wind patterns, and also have crews working to collect as much debris as possible. The United States Coastguard continues to enforce a 500-meter safety exclusion zone around the turbine. Any member of the public who observes rigid foam or fiberglass debris that may be from the Vineyard Wind turbine is asked to report it to a lifeguard. If there is no lifeguard on duty, reports of debris can be submitted to the Falmouth Marine and Environmental Services Department at marina@falmouthma.gov. Vineyard Wind has also established a hotline at 833-609-5768 and a website for the public to report debris. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Registered Nurse Orlyn Grace administers a COVID-19 booster vaccination to Jeanie Merriman at a COVID-19 vaccination clinic on April 6, 2022, in San Rafael, California. (Justin Sullivan | Getty Images) August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). NIAM raises awareness about why vaccines are important for people of all ages and how they can help prevent serious, sometimes deadly, diseases and illnesses. As I often say and have written before, if theres one thing West Virginia gets right, its the Mountain States vaccination and immunization law. It bears repeating, because our current laws are often under attack, despite the overwhelming abundance of science. Gov. Jim Justice vetoed House Bill 5105 on March 27,+ which would have removed vaccination requirements for students in virtual public schools and allow private and parochial schools to set their own standards. West Virginia continues to lead the nation among the best and safest from vaccine-preventable illness and disease, thanks to our current vaccination and immunization laws. According to state epidemiologist Shannon McBee, the Mountain State has long had an exemplary immunization model. Lawmakers must preserve this status. West Virginia is one of only a handful of states that doesnt allow immunization exemptions based on religious or philosophical beliefs. Children attending public school in the state are exempt from vaccinations only if there is a medical reason, such as an allergy to the vaccine. As such, the state also has one of the highest child immunization rates in the country. Immunizations play an important role in keeping your family and your community healthy. Vaccinations are important because they not only protect the person who is receiving the vaccine, but they also help to keep diseases from spreading to others such as your family, neighbors, classmates, coworkers and other members of the community. Immunization helps protect those who are the most vulnerable to illness, such as infants, elders and those with weakened immune systems. Vaccines are among the most successful and cost-effective public health tools available for preventing disease and death. In the United States, vaccines have greatly reduced infectious diseases that once routinely caused severe illness and death. According to the CDC, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic approximately 50,000 adults died every year from vaccine-preventable illnesses. Why is it so important to get regular immunizations, especially for children? Many people think that so-called natural immunity or herd immunity will keep them safe, or that many of the diseases for which we immunize dont exist anymore. But thats not true. First, diseases like polio or measles are rare because generations of people were immunized against them. But outbreaks do occur all over the world; exposure is even more likely because of ubiquitous travel. In April of this year, the West Virginia Department of Health confirmed the first case of measles since 2009 in a Monongalia County resident. The person was undervaccinated and had traveled internationally. State health officials worked closely with the Monongalia County Health Department to investigate the positive case and conduct contact tracing. In 2024, 125 cases of the virus were reported in 18 states. The measles vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones from this preventable disease. Those who receive the vaccine are usually considered protected for life, said Cabinet Secretary Sherri Young, D.O., MBA, FAAFP. Second, getting immunized protects you and those around you by limiting the spread of disease. The more people who are vaccinated, the less likely a major outbreak will occur. Immunization is key to creating herd immunity. Lastly, vaccination is much safer than trying to develop natural immunity from a disease because some diseases can have lasting, damaging effects on your body which can be completely avoided by getting vaccinated instead. Busting the myths Myths perpetuate the misinformation that vaccines make you sick, overload your immune system or even cause autism in children. Vaccines help our immune systems fight infection faster and more effectively. Vaccines are made of very small amounts of weak or dead germs: they wont make you sick. Some people can experience mild side effects from some vaccines, such as soreness at the injection site, but these dissipate quickly. Vaccines spark your immune response, and train your body to recognize disease-causing germs and fight them off if they ever invade your body. Finally, the idea that vaccines cause autism came from a long-since-discredited and retracted study that incorrectly linked the measles mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine to autism. This connection has never been accurately confirmed. How do we know that vaccines are safe? Before a new vaccine is ever considered for approval by the FDA, pre-clinical and clinical studies are conducted to determine safety, effectiveness and dosing. Vaccine trials must involve even more participants than standard drug clinical trials because vaccines are intended for the entire population. Once a vaccine reaches the FDA approval phase, it is again evaluated for safety, effectiveness and consistency of batch purity and potency. Vaccination is critically important and one of the best tools we have to prevent disease and severe illness. Widespread immunization has led to the eradication of smallpox worldwide, the elimination of polio in the United States, and the prevention of debilitating and sometimes deadly infectious diseases like measles. Despite this extraordinary success, global vaccine administration has plateaued within the last decade, partly because of the spread of misinformation and disinformation. A strong public health policy has allowed West Virginia to remain a leader in the nation regarding school-age vaccination rates. Having those high immunization rates have allowed us to better protect our communities. West Virginians for Affordable Health Care encourages you to talk to your doctor, nurse, or health care professional to ensure that you and your family are protected against serious diseases by getting caught up on routine vaccinations. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX In this episode of Empowered Hawaii, hosts Jeff Mikulina and Kelly Simek explore the pivotal issue of transportation in Hawaii, spotlighting the landmark case of Navahine v. Hawaii, where 14 young people filed a constitutional climate lawsuit against the State of Hawaii and Hawaii Department of Transportation, seeking to enforce environmental protections. The youth plaintiffs are ensuring the Hawaii Department of Transportation follows through the legal mandate of decarbonizing Hawaiis economy and achieve a zero emissions economy by 2045. First, Jeff and Kelly have an in-depth conversation with youth plaintiff Rylee Brooke Kamahele. Rylee shares her personal journey and motivations behind her involvement in the case, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable transportation solutions in Hawaii. Next, Jeff and Kelly speak with Leinaala Ley, Senior Associate Attorney at Earthjustice. Leinaala explains the broader environmental and legal importance of Navahine v. Hawaii, highlighting how the settlement could pave the way for more environmentally responsible transportation policies. Her insights shed light on the critical role legal advocacy plays in driving systemic change. Kelly then speaks with Ed Sniffen, Director of the Hawaii Department of Transportation, to discuss the states response to the settlement. Ed outlines the concrete steps Hawaii will take to adhere to the new guidelines, offering a glimpse into the states commitment to sustainable transportation development. Finally, Jeff talks with Michael Replogle, former Deputy Commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation. Michael shares his expertise and expresses Hawaiis need to prioritize climate change when selecting projects and dedicating funds, which it has not been doing to date. Michael also offers valuable lessons from large urban centers that Hawaii can adapt to foster a more sustainable transportation future. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) The Decatur City Council finalized some decisions on infrastructure projects during Mondays meeting. They voted to move forward on the $345,000 demolition of the former YWCA building, located at 436 North Main Street. Councilmembers believe the vacant building to be a matter of public safety, citing the structures deteriorating bricks and its general state of severe disrepair. Back in April, the council also approved asbestos abatement. City of Decatur unveils new and improved website Decatur officials plan to hold the building owners responsible for the significant cost. Although the buildings are owned by local individuals the City is aware of, they have taken no initiative to maintain their building or proceed with demolition despite repeated attempts by the City to work with them, officials wrote in a news release. Photo provided by the Facebook page of Decatur Illinois City Government. Photo provided by the Facebook page of Decatur Illinois City Government. The city council also voted to pursue improved sewer infrastructure. They greenlit an agreement with the Crawford, Murphy & Tilly (CMT) engineering service to help correct sewer overflows in basements and manholes in the Lost Bridge and Florian Avenue area. To carry this project through, the City of Decatur is submitting an application for the Illinois Environmental Protection Agencys State Revolving Loan Fund. CMT will help the City prepare this request. Improvements are also coming to the Lake Decatur dam through the Water Capital Fund. One of the sluice gates, which are used to regulate water levels, was damaged in January due to the extreme cold. A repair contract was approved at Monday evenings meeting. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) A late Friday evening letter from Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin reversed an agreement between prosecutors and the alleged mastermind of the Sept. 11 attacks, putting the death penalty back on the table. Austin sent a memo to Susan Escallier, the convening authority for military commissions on Friday. The letter withdrew the United States from agreements reached between the U.S. and Khalid Shaikh Mohammad and two other accused terrorists. The agreement would have taken away the option for the death penalty for the accused terrorists, in exchange for their guilty plea. Now, with Austins reversal, the death penalty is an option for Mohammad. That is the punishment that fits the crime when you murder nearly 3,000 Americans on American soil, said Terry Strada, the Chair of 9/11 Families United. Stradas husband was killed in one of the Twin Towers on Sept. 11. He boasted about it. He has said if he had the opportunity to do it again, he would, Strada said. So to plead guilty was nothing special, because he never denied it. The ACLU, who is representing Mohammad, said they would fight Austins reversal. If he doesnt reverse course, we will see him in court, said Yasmin Cader, ACLU Deputy Legal Director. We were at a place where were reaching a guilty verdict, where we have a guarantee of a 2,976-year sentence for our client. Cader added prosecutors likely made the agreement to avoid trial because of the U.S. governments use of torture. The United States torture of our client has more than complicated, has invalidated much of the evidence that is on the ground, Cader said. Strada said she, and her organization, will continue to fight for the death penalty. Last week, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the White House played no role in the process for the plea agreement for Mohammad. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Al Asad Air Base in Iraq where the Defense Department reported Monday that "several U.S. personnel were injured" in a suspected rocket attack. File Photo courtesy of Department of Defense/Army Sgt. Julio Hernandez Aug. 5 (UPI) -- Several U.S. personnel have been injured in a suspected rocket attack on U.S. and coalition forces at Al Asad Air Base in Iraq, a Defense Department spokesperson reported Monday, according to media outlets. "Initial indications are that several U.S. personnel were injured," the spokesperson told ABC News, NBC News and CNN. "Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment. We will provide updates as more information becomes available." Officials have not released the extent or number of injuries. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed on the attack, according to a White House readout of a meeting Monday in the Situation Room on escalating tensions in the Middle East. "We received updates on threats posed by Iran and its proxies, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate regional tensions and preparations to support Israel should it be attacked again," the president wrote Monday in a post on X. "We also discussed the steps we are taking to defend our forces and respond to any attack against our personnel in a manner and place of our choosing." Earlier, @VP and I were briefed in the Situation Room on developments in the Middle East. We received updates on threats posed by Iran and its proxies, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate regional tensions, and preparations to support Israel should it be attacked again. We also... pic.twitter.com/kbRcVkW3ex President Biden (@POTUS) August 5, 2024 The reported attack comes as Iran vows revenge on Israel for last week's assassinations of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Fouad Shukr, Hezbollah senior military commander and founding member of the Iran-backed group. The Israel Defense Forces has not claimed responsibility for Haniyeh's death. "They will see the result of their mistake," Iranian General Hossein Salami warned after Haniyeh's death. "They will see when, how and where they will get their response." Meanwhile, the U.S. Defense Department reported Monday it continues to move vessels and aircraft in the Middle East to protect American forces and increase the defense of Israel. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke Sunday with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to show the United States' support for Israel's security and right to defend itself against Iran, Lebanese Hezbollah, Houthis and other Iranian-backed terrorist groups, according to deputy Pentagon press secretary Sabrina Singh. "They discussed U.S. force posture moves that the department is taking for defense and deterrence," Singh told reporters Monday, "and reinforced the need to de-escalate broader tensions in the region, to include strong support for Gaza cease-fire and hostage-release deal." NEWS: U.S. Posturing Assets to Defend Israel, U.S. Forces in Middle East https://t.co/D8Cu7pRbAD Department of Defense (@DeptofDefense) August 5, 2024 What is the DEI controversy at Harley-Davidson? Milwaukee motorcycle company Harley-Davidson has joined several other companies in becoming the target of protests from conservative activists. The activists are calling for boycotts over Harley-Davidson's DEI efforts. A Tennessee conservative activist posted a video on X, formerly known as Twitter, on July 23 highlighting all the diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives that Harley-Davidson has participated in over the years. In the social media post, the activist encourages consumers who don't align with those beliefs not to support the company. Conservative activists have launched similar attacks against both John Deere and Tractor Supply within the past two months. What sparked the controversy about Harley-Davidson? Conservative activist Robby Starbuck posted a 10-minute video on July 23 arguing the company "has gone woke." In the social media post, he said the company has supported LGBTQ+ initiatives and that employees attend training on how to be an ally to LGBTQ+ members. The chairman, president and CEO of Harley-Davidson, Jochen Zeitz, has been an active advocate for sustainability for a long time. Before becoming the CEO of Harley-Davidson, Zeitz worked at Puma and luxury goods company Kering. Zeitz currently serves as the chairman for LiveWire Inc., which is the electric vehicle division of Harley-Davidson. He also founded his own organization, the Zeitz Foundation, to support sustainable solutions that balance conservation, community, and culture and commerce. Zeitz has only helmed the ship at Harley-Davidson since 2020, but he made sure to sign the CEO Action for Diversity and Inclusion pledge. Harley-Davidson has yet to respond to the controversy. Why are companies supporting LGBTQ+ and DEI efforts? Why is that controversial? DEI is not a new thing to the United States, however, it has become more and more controversial now than in the past few decades. Diversity policies and programs rushed into existence amid the nations racial reckoning in 2020 and 2021 are increasingly under the microscope. Despite these criticisms, DEI and LGBTQ+ friendliness has a positive outcome in business settings. Nearly three-quarters of executives surveyed by Bridge Partners Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Barometer cited the benefits of DEI on recruiting, hiring and retention (94%) and the reputational boost with the public (74%). The executives expect to build their DEI programs in the next 24 months while only 4% say they will cut back or eliminate them. They said the political climate has not had much impact on their DEI commitments, with 53% of executives saying it has had no impact and 47% saying it had a small impact, Bridge Partners found. Who is Robby Starbuck? Starbuck is a former director and producer of music videos and commercials turned social media influencer. Starbuck moved to Tennessee from California in 2019 and eventually made a failed run for Congress in 2022. In the past two months, Starbuck has made it his mission to make consumers aware of "the wokeness" that is taking over companies. He is behind similar campaigns against both John Deere and Tractor Supply starting in June "My goal with this reporting is never destruction. My goal is to inform consumers about the values major companies are adopting so they can make choices about what they're willing to support," Starbuck wrote in his post about Harley-Davidson. Where is Harley-Davidson headquartered in Wisconsin? Harley-Davidson was founded in Milwaukee in 1903 and the corporate headquarters is at 3700 W. Juneau Ave. in Milwaukee. Harley-Davidson dealerships in Wisconsin: Harley-Davidson has several dealerships across Wisconsin. The Harley-Davidson Museum is in downtown Milwaukee at 400 W. Canal St. Oconomowoc: 1280 Blue Ribbon Drive Milwaukee: 11310 W. Silver Spring Road Greenfield: 6221 W. Layton Ave. Thiensville: 139 N. Main St. West Bend: 2910 W. Washington St. Madison: 6200 Millpond Road Kenosha: 5995 120th Ave. Fond du Lac: 24 S. Rolling Meadows Drive Manitowoc: 2433 Hecker Road Appleton: 5322 Clairemont Drive Green Bay: 1966 Velp Ave. Mauston: N4833 WI-58 Bonduel: W2709 WI-29 Rothschild: 1570 County Road XX Onalaska: 1116 Oak Forest Drive Chippewa Falls: 2452 Hallie Road Arbor Vitae: 1700 Hwy 51 Rice Lake: 2801 S. Wisconsin Ave. New Richmond: 2060 WI-65 Wisconsin Dells: 524 Wisconsin Dells Parkway RELATED: Harley-Davidson announces 2025 dates for its Homecoming Festival in Milwaukee RELATED: Attendance down for Milwaukee Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival's Veterans Park concerts USA TODAY contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: What's the controversy over Harley-Davidson's DEI efforts? TOKYO, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Household spending in Japan saw the second month of decline from a year earlier in June, government data showed on Tuesday. Household spending in the reporting period fell 1.4 percent in real terms year on year, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. Households of two or more people spent an average of 280,888 yen (about 1,925 U.S. dollars), with spending up 1.9 percent from the previous month on a nominal basis. In breakdown, expenditures on home expenses went sharply down by 23.6 percent. Spending on utilities decreased by 7.3 percent, as families cut their power usage ahead of the end of government subsidies for electricity and gas bills. Meanwhile, amid extremely high temperatures in June which promoted summer purchases such as air conditioning units, spending on furniture and other durable goods saw a 23.7 percent rise year on year, the data showed. Despite a rise in real wages during the month, local analysts pointed out that people might be saving more, while noting the trend of reducing spending due to a frugal mindset persisted among local residents due to soaring prices. Accounting for more than half of Japan's gross domestic product (GDP), household spending is a key gauge of private consumption in the country. MUNCIE, Ind. Delaware County Council has decided against giving $2,500 pay stipends to the county's auditor and clerk. The mid-year stipends for those elected officials had been provided for in a state law that went into effect July 1. At the council's most recent meeting, the stipends for Auditor Ed Carroll and Clerk Rick Spangler were both voted down in 7-0 votes. Council member Ryan Webb recalled the "extremely difficult" task the county faced last year in finalizing a budget that offered few pay raises for employees. "For us to turn around and give out stipends to two elected officials, I kind of feel like is a middle finger to everybody that did what they had to do to ensure that we could reach our budget," Webb said. More: Recount shows no change in at-large Delaware County Council winners Webb suggested if the clerk and auditor deserved such stipends, "then damn it, everybody else does as well." Council member Jim Mochal said paying the stipends would "set a poor precedent." "We would make two people happy and have several hundred people scratching their heads," he said. Council member William Hughes said the stipends were "not the right kind of way to determine any kind of compensation for elected officials." Council President Jessica Piper compared the stipends to an "unfunded mandate." Council members said their lack of support for the stipends was not a reflection on Carroll or Spangler, and they acknowledged the responsibilities tied to an increased number of state audits and conducting elections that apparently motivated the new law. However, they said any issues concerning pay hikes or compensation for employees should be addressed at the county's upcoming budget hearings. The legislation that provided for the stipends was authored by State Rep. Craig Snow, a Warsaw Republican. The law allows Hoosier auditors to pursue the stipends each year and for clerks to seek the payment every other year. Douglas Walker is a news reporter at The Star Press. Contact him at 765-213-5851 or at dwalker@muncie.gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Muncie Star Press: Delaware County Council won't pay auditor, clerk $2,500 stipends HONOLULU (KHON2) Delays in picking up trash could continue through 2025, according to the city. Honolulu Deputy Communications Director Ian Scheuring said they are doing everything they can to address the problem. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Its an eyesore. Overflowing bins and trash left uncollected is an issue happening more often. There have been plenty of days in the last six months or so where at least a couple of trash routes have not been picked up, Scheuring explained. It all comes down to supply chain issues that were first caused as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. New initiative in Hawaii could change the worlds carbon footprint We have plenty of people, drivers, we just dont have updated equipment, Honolulu Department of Environmental Services Director Roger Babcock explained. According to Babcock, his department has a fleet of 105 side loader trucks, each one lasts seven years, and they buy 15 new trucks a year. In 2020 he said all those orders were cancelled and they hadnt received any new trucks until very recently. Honolulu DDC to begin Kakaako road improvement project That means that we have to collect with only about half the trucks, and theyre constantly in and out of the shop, he added. And what that means is trucks do two routes a day, many of them, which means they also get worn out even faster than than they normally would. Babcock said theyve been scrambling to cover routes, doing their best to collect the trash as quickly as possible with the trucks that are still working. Hawaii parents dont want to miss this According to the city, two new trucks are now in service. One of them is in Wahiawa that picks up garbage along the North Shore and the second is in Honolulu, which services communities from Hawaii Kai to Halawa. Babcock said they are hoping to get 12 more new trucks in by this fall. Were hoping it will be better, probably not perfect. Thats going to take probably into next year, he explained. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news If you put your bins out and they dont come at their usual time, he said dont take them back in. The thing to do is to, is to leave your cart out, Babcock said. Well get to it later in the day, or the next day, or as soon as we can. Supply chain issues are affecting more than just trash pick-ups according to Scheuring. New glimmer of hope opens in Lahaina today Were waiting for the arrival of six new ambulances, and theres another new contract on the way for four additional ambulances, he said. Best case scenario theyll take 18 months to get here. The Department of Parks and Recreation is also dealing with a shortage of rear load garbage trucks, leading to delays in trash pickups at city parks and beach parks. Scheuring said the degree to which departments are impacted varies from day to day, depending on inventory and repairs. Speed limits around schools could lower to 20 mph under new bill The city is asking for the publics patience as they work through this. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Delta will suspend all flights from New York City to Tel Aviv for the remainder of August, the airline announced Monday, amid growing fears of a regional conflict between Israel and Iran. The announcement extends a previous suspension that began last week. Sales of all flights between New Yorks John F. Kennedy International Airport and Tel Aviv this month have halted, the airline said. Any customers with tickets on affected flights will be issued a travel waiver. Flights on partner airlines Air France and EL AL Israel Airlines are still available, Delta said. Delta is continuously monitoring the evolving security environment and assessing our operations based on security guidance and intelligence reports and will communicate any updates as needed, the company said in a statement. United Airlines similarly paused flights to Tel Aviv until further notice last week, citing security reasons. The cancellations come after Israel killed two top Hamas leaders in strikes on Tehran and Beirut, ratcheting up concerns that Israel could escalate to all-out war in Lebanon, where Hezbollah militants are located. The Iranian government has also promised retaliation for the strikes, leading the U.S. military to deploy significant assets in the region. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro speaks before Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz during a campaign event in Philadelphia, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Joe Lamberti) PHILADELPHIA (AP) Vice President Kamala Harris choice of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate disappointed fans of Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who was one of Harris finalists for the job and seen as someone who could help Democrats win a key swing state and make history by electing the first Jewish vice president. With his history of winning three statewide elections in Pennsylvania, Shapiro was seen as someone with particular appeal to moderate voters. His state's 19 votes in the Electoral College have long been critical for candidates trying to reach the necessary 270 to win. But the same things about Shapiro that appealed to moderates angered some on the left in his party: his support for a private school voucher program and natural gas infrastructure as well as particularly his support for Israel's war in Gaza after Hamas' Oct. 7 attack. Some Democrats lamented what they said was a missed opportunity by bypassing Shapiro. Republicans, meanwhile, tried to paint Harris' choice as a snub to Jewish voters, a traditionally Democratic constituency that former President Donald Trump has tried to court in this year's race. Not only is he exceptionally smart and capable, but, in my opinion, he brought the math to the path of 270, said Ryan Bizzarro, 38-year-old Democratic state lawmaker from Erie, Pennsylvania, said of Shapiro. Shapiro spoke at a rally in Philadelphia Tuesday night before the new Democratic ticket took the stage, with the Pennsylvania governor receiving big applause from thousands of attendees. I love you Philly. You know what else I love, I love being your governor, Shapiro said. He added, I am going to continue pouring my heart and soul into continuing to serve you every single day as your governor. Shapiro also praised Walz as a great man with strong midwestern values, calling him a friend he said he couldnt wait for Pennsylvanians to get to know. Walz returned the compliment when he took the stage later with Harris in Philadelphia. My God, what a treasure you have in Josh Shapiro," he said. "Holy hell, can this guy bring the fire. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, who advocated fiercely but unsuccessfully for Shapiro, also spoke at the event and said Democrats should not let Republicans and detractors divide them over the pick. Our Democratic nominee has spoken and thats it. Period. End of story," Parker said. Republicans try to ta ke advantage of Shapiro not being picked A number of high-profile Republicans sought to seize on the liberal pushback Shapiro faced over his stance on Israel, suggesting Tuesday that Shapiro was not picked as Harris running mate because of antisemitic attitudes in the Democratic Party. Trump, the Republican nominee, has been sharply criticized for his record on antisemitism, notably his suggestion that there were fine people on both sides of an antisemitic march in Charlottesville, Virginia, and his dinner with white nationalist Nick Fuentes at his Mar-a-Lago residence in 2022. The former president recently suggested Harris doesnt like Jewish people even though her husband, second gentleman Doug Emhoff, is Jewish, and seemed to agree with a radio host who called Emhoff a crappy Jew. Ohio Sen. JD Vance, the Republican vice-presidential candidate, told reporters in Philadelphia on Tuesday that it seemed Harris didnt pick Shapiro because Democrats feared grassroots activists in their party wouldnt take a Jewish nominee. Michigan state Sen. Jeremy Moss, who is Jewish and was excited at the prospect of a Jewish vice president, praised Walz and criticized Republicans for framing her decision as a slight against Jewish Democrats. Ive seen the discourse on the right saying that theres clearly no room for Jews in Democratic politics, said Moss. I defy any one of them to name a single Jewish Republican governor or a single Jewish Republican U.S. senator. They cant, because there are none. The last Jewish Republican senator was former Sen. Norm Coleman of Minnesota, who left office in 2009. Missouri's former Republican Gov. Eric Greitens is Jewish, but he resigned in 2018. Arab American leaders who had publicly cautioned against picking Shapiro countered claims that the opposition was based on the governors Jewish background and said his positions on Israel and statements on campus protests went further than other candidates, particularly Walz. Abdullah Hammoud, the mayor of Dearborn, Michigan, noted that the Arab American community overwhelmingly voted for Jewish politicians in the past, backing former Democratic Rep. Andy Levin and twice supporting former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders, the independent Vermont senator. Its certainly not antisemitic to critique somebodys position on Israeli policy," Hammoud said. Thats just called stewardship and accountability. Most Jewish Americans vote Democratic and are still poised to rally around the Democratic ticket, even without Shapiro. Only 30% of Jewish voters supported Trump in 2020, while 69% supported Biden, according to AP VoteCast, a sweeping survey of the electorate. That made Jewish voters one of the religious groups where support for Biden was strongest. The Jewish Democratic Council of America, which held an online rally for Harris last week, issued a statement in support of Walz on Tuesday, calling him an exceptional choice and noting he and Harris align with the vast majority of Jewish voters on every key issue, including Israel and antisemitism. Shapiro remains a key Democratic asset for this year's campaign Shapiro is a popular first-term governor who two years ago was elected in a battleground state that is seen as critical to Democrats path to win the White House. The 51-year-old emerged in recent days as a finalist on Harris speedy search for a running mate, winning fans in the party for his speaking style that evoked former President Barack Obama. With his background as a former state attorney general, like Harris, he also stood out for his forceful defenses of the White House and critiques of Trump. He is a staunch proponent of abortion rights but is also seen as a moderate on energy policy, a significant issue in his natural gas producing state. Shapiro has professed solidarity with Israel in its campaign to eliminate Hamas and has aggressively confronted what he saw as antisemitism appearing at pro-Palestinian demonstrations. In recent days, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported on a column he wrote for his college newspaper saying Palestinians were too battle-minded to coexist with Israel. Jonathan Sarna, professor of American Jewish history at Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts, said that as the opposition to Shapiro over his position on Israel became more vocal, suddenly this decision took on new significance. Nathan Diament, the executive director of public policy for the Orthodox Union, an umbrella group of Orthodox Jews in the U.S., said Its a bit disappointing a Jewish candidate wont be on the ticket. Certainly, it would have been exciting if that had happened for a second time, he said, referencing Joseph Liebermans run with Al Gore in 2000. Amy Spitalnick, the CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, said in a post on X that it was ridiculous for people to claim Harris, whom she noted was married to a Jewish man, second gentleman Doug Emhoff, didnt pick Shapiro because of antisemitism. There are two crowds using Jews as political footballs here: The far-left that singled out Shapiro (despite Israel policies largely aligned with Walz and others) AND the swarm of right-wingers now claiming Harris/Dems are antisemitic, she wrote. Neither is credible. State Sen. Sharif Street of Philadelphia said that Walzs values, including on abortion and gun control, align more with Philadelphians than those of Vance or Trump. And he believes his retail political skills will help carry the state, even without Shapiro on the ticket. Look, Gov. Shapiros a rockstar in this state. People love him, said Street, Pennsylvanias Democratic Party chair and the son of former Mayor John Street. But he will still be out there campaigning for this ticket. They havent lost Josh Shapiro. ___ Associated Press reporters Tiffany Stanley in Washington, Peter Smith in Pittsburgh, Meg Kinnard and Will Weissert in Philadelphia and Joey Cappelletti in Lansing, Michigan, contributed to this report. The Democratic contest in western Wisconsin to take on Rep. Derrick Van Orden turns heated WASHINGTON Two years ago, the Democrats competing for a shot at a western Wisconsin House swing seat rarely mentioned one another. The candidates appeared more as a team than as opponents, reserving their harsh words only for their rival in November: Republican Derrick Van Orden. Now, however, the tone is different. State Rep. Katrina Shankland, left, and non-profit leader Rebecca Cooke, right, both Democratic candidates for Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District. The Democratic primary for Wisconsins 3rd Congressional District has grown increasingly heated. Two of the candidates, small-business owner Rebecca Cooke and Stevens Point state Rep. Katrina Shankland, are publicly sparring. And a sitting Wisconsin congressman has injected himself into the conversation with just days to go until the Aug. 13 primary adding to a shift that has caught the eye of Democrats and Republicans alike. I was trying my best to keep the respective camps positive and focused on (Van Orden), said former Democratic U.S. Rep. Ron Kind, who represented the district from 1996 until his retirement in 2022. But thats the nature of a competitive primary I guess. Nearly all of the infighting has come between Cooke and Shankland, the top two candidates in the three-way race to face Van Orden. Cooke, who came in second in 2022s primary, has attempted to paint Shankland, a 37-year-old self-described full-time legislator elected to the state Assembly in 2012, as a career politician. Shankland, meanwhile, has called Cooke, 36, inexperienced and accused her of attempting to distort Shanklands record while misleading the public about her own background. The simmering bitterness broke out into the open late last month when Shankland accused Cooke of lying about Shanklands legislative record with a posting on her website she said was Cookes signal to outside groups to attack Shankland. The posting, made to Cookes media toolkit page, accused Shankland of being the only Democrat to vote in committee with Republicans to pass a bill to block the state from expanding Badgercare without approval from the Republican legislature. It referenced a 2018 bill aimed at holding down Obamacare premiums. The bill included an amendment that prohibited the Department of Health Services from expanding Medicaid absent the approval of the state Legislature. Shankland, however, opposed that amendment in committee, though she joined other Democrats in helping to pass the bill as a whole. Shanklands campaign noted Shankland has long supported expanding Badgercare, pointing to legislation she helped introduce to do just that. At least one outside group, New Democrat Majority, included the attack in a 30-second ad accusing Shankland of "working for Republicans, not for you." Shankland last week held a press conference to address the issue and blamed Cooke for the races negative turn. It sets the wrong precedent for future primaries, and it is harmful to our democracy when so much dark money comes into a Democratic primary, some of which is used to attack a longstanding lawmakers legislative record," she said. Not long later, Cooke sent out a news release doubling down on her attacks and accusing the Stevens Point Democrat of having taken this race negative first, citing an ad Shankland cut in July noting Cooke has never held public office. Cooke, who is from Eau Claire, has touted her background growing up on a farm in the district as shes positioned herself as a political outsider. Shes posted pictures of herself working as a waitress at a restaurant, and she previously ran a boutique that closed in 2022 and is the founder of a nonprofit that supports women business owners. But she also has experience in political fundraising for campaigns across the country. U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan injects himself into race Adding to and perhaps amplifying the back and forth is U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan. Pocan, a Madison Democrat who has long voiced support for not getting involved in Democratic primaries, endorsed Shankland in January and in recent weeks has frequently tweeted about Cookes attacks on Shankland, accusing Cooke of being deceitful and calling on her to disavow dark money groups. Asked about the attacks in the race, Pocan told reporters last week that this cycles contest was a different race. He accused Cooke of running as a progressive last cycle and a conservative this cycle, a reference in part to an endorsement she received from the Blue Dog Coalition, a group of moderate Democrats in Congress. I mean, we have to defeat Derrick Van Orden, and it is dangerous to our efforts to get that done to be doing whats happening right now, said Pocan. The rhetoric is a marked difference from 2022, when Cooke and three other Democrats refrained from attacking one another and rather trained their attention on Van Orden. During a televised primary debate last cycle, the candidates never went on the offensive and rather sought to differentiate themselves by talking about their own backgrounds. (There will be no televised primary debate in the district this year after Cooke and Eric Wilson, the third Democrat in the race, could not agree on a date. There have been a handful of party-led forums.) Van Orden, a former Navy SEAL, went on to defeat state Sen. Brad Pfaff by about 4 points in 2022, flipping the states most competitive district red for the first time in 26 years. National Democrats call Derrick Van Orden a top target National Democrats have named the district among their top targets to flip this cycle. House Majority PAC, Democrats largest outside group for congressional campaigns, last week reserved just under $4 million in television ads for October around the district, though the group ended up canceling similar reservations in the district last cycle. U.S Representative Derrick Van Orden for the Third Congressional District speaks on a Federal Legislator panel during the 2024 Republican Party Of Wisconsin State Convention on Saturday May 18, 2024 at the Fox Cities Exhibition Center in Appleton, Wis. The Cook Political Report, an election handicapper, rates the race as lean Republican. National Republicans, meanwhile, sought to capitalize on the Democratic sparring. The National Republican Congressional Committee this week said Cooke and Shankland are battling to turn western Wisconsin into far left liberal San Francisco. The messy Democrat primary gets worse by the day whomever crawls out will be broke, muddied and outright unelectable, NRCC spokesman Mike Marinella said. The tone change also comes as Cooke holds a large fundraising edge over Shankland and Wilson. Cooke reported raising more than $2 million as of the end of July and had about $590,000 in cash on hand heading into the primary, according to Federal Election Commission filings. Shankland raised $867,000 over the same period and had about $189,000 in her war chest. Eric Wilson, a Democrat running for Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District seat. Wilson, meanwhile, has raised a little more than $181,000 this cycle and had $29,000 in cash left in his account at the end of last month. Van Ordens latest campaign finance report showed he raised nearly $4.9 million so far this cycle. He had $2.4 million in cash on hand heading into the primary, where he will not face an opponent. Former U.S. Rep. Ron Kind decries party infighting Kind, the former Congressman for the district, told the Journal Sentinel he will not endorse a candidate in the primary. He lamented the Democratic infighting, saying it could create unnecessary divisions and hard feelings and potentially alienate other Democratic voters in the general election. All this can backfire on you in a primary, and that's why primaries are hard," Kind said. "You try to make a point of distinction of what you're offering versus your primary opponents, but you don't want to do it in a way that's going to alienate your opponents' supporters at the end of the day." Still, other Wisconsin Democrats have brushed off questions about how the primary could impact Democrats in the general election. At a forum in Eau Claire last month, all three Democratic candidates pledged they would support the nominee in the district no matter who wins on Aug. 13. I will be supporting the Democratic nominee because Derrick Van Orden is one of the most extreme members of Congress, Shankland said at the forum, framing the pledge as an effort to protect democracy. We should work hard, and we should work together. Thats something we all have to come together and do, Cooke said of the unity pledge. Because at the end of the day, Derrick Van Orden is who we are really running against, and he is not the right fit for us here in western Wisconsin. One Democratic strategist summed up the primary tension this way: Its only a bad thing if they cant put Humpty Dumpty back together again. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Democratic contest to take on Derrick Van Orden turns heated U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee looks on as former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner speaks to a crowd of supporters during an election night party in Houston on Nov. 5, 2019. Jackson Lee died on July 19, 2024. Credit: Sergio Flores for The Texas Tribune. WASHINGTON The person who is likely to take U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lees seat in Congress will effectively be selected by 88 Harris County Democratic precinct chairs next week. Jackson Lee died July 19 after having won in this years Democratic primary. An executive committee of precinct chairs in the 18th Congressional District will select a new candidate who will appear on the November 5 ballot against Republican Lana Centonze. But because the district is solidly blue, it is likely that the Democratic candidate will win. Since the candidate selection is internal within the party, there is no formal filing process for candidates and precinct chairs could theoretically choose anyone. Of the 15 Democrats who have been in touch with the county party, five run with extensive elected experience: former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, former Houston City Council member Amanda Edwards who faced off against Jackson Lee in the primary, state Rep. Jarvis Johnson, state Rep. Christina Morales and Houston City Council member Letitia Plummer. Former Houston City Council Member Dwight Boykins, who put his name in the ring on Friday, said Monday that he dropped out of the race after Jackson Lees family endorsed Turner. The election is separate from the special election on the same day for a representative to serve out the rest of Jackson Lees current term, which ends on Jan. 3, 2025. Candidates have until Aug. 22 to run in the special election. The leading Democrats seeking the partys nomination have resumes steeped in Houston politics and largely aligned on policy. Each will be able to share their pitches during a public forum on Saturday. The precinct chairs will meet to select the Democratic nominee to replace Jackson Lee on Aug. 13. Sylvester Turner The most experienced candidate, Turner served as mayor of Houston from 2016 to 2024 after serving in the Texas House since 1989. But perhaps his biggest asset is his strong relationship with Jackson Lee, reflected in the endorsement of Jackson Lees children, Jason Lee and Erica Lee Carter. We have no doubt Mayor Turner will carry on our mothers legacy of service because weve witnessed it almost our entire lives, Jackson Lees children said in a statement Monday. Our mother had no greater partner than Mayor Turner and he honors her with his willingness to dutifully and humbly serve as a sturdy bridge to the next generation of leadership for the historic 18th Congressional District of Texas. Turner endorsed Jackson Lee in her own run for mayor last year. Turner, who was term-limited out of office, had largely refrained from commenting on his succession until Jackson Lee entered a runoff against state Sen. John Whitmire. Whitmire ended up winning the race. In his bid to succeed Jackson Lee, Turner is highlighting his relationship with her, promising to continue fighting for some of her biggest priorities, including securing federal funds for Houston. Jackson Lee brought in millions of federal dollars throughout her time in Congress for Houston flood control, health care and public safety. Turner also supports legislation to protect women from domestic violence, codify access to abortion federally, protect LGBTQ rights and enhance transparency in policing. But Turner, who opted not to challenge his old friend in the Democratic primary, is also the oldest major candidate at 69 years old and said he would serve a maximum of two terms if elected a fact others seeking the nomination said would limit his ability to build seniority in the hierarchical Congress. It is time for people like Sylvester Turner to pass the baton and counsel the next generation of leaders to be able to to lead this district forward, said Johnson, who succeeded Turners state House. Turner is a very capable, a very smart individual, and when healthy and when his timing was right, did great things. But I don't think that it's fair to this district, I don't think that it is fair to this community that we place, potentially, us back in the same position that we just came from. Turner said in 2022 that he had secretly been recovering from bone cancer, and is now cancer-free. Amanda Edwards Edwards is making another go at the congressional seat after losing to Jackson Lee in the Democratic primary earlier this year. She dropped out of last years mayoral run and ran for the congressional seat after Jackson Lee announced she was running for mayor, seeming to vacate the seat. But when Jackson Lee lost the mayoral election, the two Democrats faced off in the primary, with Jackson Lee winning by over 22 points. Edwards isnt discouraged by that run, recognizing the seniority Jackson Lee offered. But she says this is an opportunity for new leadership who can build another generation of seniority in the House. Edwards, 42, is only a couple of years younger than Jackson Lee was when she was elected to Congress. Edwards was a member of Houston City Council from 2016 to 2020 as an at-large member, where she had a constituency of over 2 million. While on the council, Edwards created the citys Women and Minority-owned Business Task Force and prioritized making a fair playing field for the citys small businesses. Protecting small business owners while also strengthening workers rights to unionize remains a priority for her in Congress. Edwards also supports codifying federal abortion rights, expanding coverage under the Affordable Care Act and reforming police under the Justice in Policing Act. Other Houston-specific issues Edwards is focused on include bringing federal funds into the district for flood resiliency and environmental justice causes, such as the Fifth Ward cancer cluster. Both were priorities for Jackson Lee in Congress. Edwards is a Harris County native, graduating from Eisenhower High School and working for Jackson Lee in her Washington office after graduating from Emory University in 2004. Im the person in this race who's also been trained by the congresswoman and knows the ins and outs of the 18th congressional district DC office, Edwards said. Edwards ran unsuccessfully for the Democratic nomination to challenge Sen. John Cornyn in 2020. She came in fifth place, with M.J. Hegar winning the nomination. Cornyn won the general election. Jarvis Johnson Johnson represented parts of the 18th Congressional District in the Texas state House, where he served on the Appropriations Committee and as vice chair of the Homeland Security and Public Safety Committee. Both committee assignments align with Jackson Lees time in Congress, where she sat on the House Homeland Security and was an avid advocate for appropriating funds to Houston. Johnson gave up his seat in the Texas House to run for Whitmires vacated seat in the state Senate. He lost that race to Democrat Molly Cook. Johnson said he would prioritize gathering all elected officials in the district from state legislators to city council and school board members to prioritize which local issues should get federal funding. Its a coordination that he said hasnt existed under past congressional representation. The top policy priorities for him are housing, education and health care in the city, which he said he would address by bringing home federal dollars. Johnson also said that his time in the state Legislature, where Republicans have held the majority for over 20 years, prepares him to work across the aisle in Congress. As a state appropriator, he brought $1 million to his state House district for the Booker T. Washington High School for engineering and fought for state funds to go toward constructing the Ike Dike. One of his biggest priorities in the immediate term is ramping support for Vice President Kamala Harris in her bid for the White House. Johnson said that means outreach for young voters and Black men who feel disenfranchised by an older generation of Democrats. It is important at this time that we pass the baton, Johnson said. What I don't believe that the Democratic Party here, locally and nationally, has done, is speak to that populace of people that need to see themselves in the picture. Letitia Plummer Plummer now occupies the at-large city council seat previously held by Edwards. The position is bound by resign-to-run laws, meaning she would give up her seat if given the Democratic nomination to run in the general election. She cant formally call herself a candidate before then, so she wont be participating in Saturdays candidate forum. In a recent interview, Plummer, 53, said her relative youth was one of her biggest assets, allowing her to occupy the seat for years and offering consistency as Jackson Lee had done. I have a record of the work that I've done in the community. I've got the experience, and I have the age to allow some level of creation of seniority when I get to Congres, Plummer said. Plummer said she would continue focusing on transportation, affordable housing, public health, small businesses and flood resiliency in Congress. She cited her work with the Department of Transportation to secure funding for the citys Metros University Line and her work with the Department of Health and Human Services and the Environmental Protection Agency to bring federal resources to high-pollution areas. Plummer said she has a roster of shovel-ready projects in need of federal funding that she would fight for in Congress. Plummer first ran for Congress in 2018, losing in the Democratic primary for the 22nd Congressional District to Sri Preston Kulkarni (Kulkarni lost in the competitive general election to former U.S. Rep. Peter Olson). Christina Morales Morales has served in the state Legislature since 2019 after winning in a special election against fellow Democrat Melissa Noriega. She and Noriega had made it to a runoff in an eight-way contest for the seat. In the Legislature, Im known as a fighter, Morales said in a video announcing her bid for the nomination. She is ranked the second most progressive Democrat in the state House, and her district lies within the Congressional District. Since taking office in 2019, I have not backed down from Gov. Abbott and the Republicans. Theyre taking away our basic rights, Morales said in the video. Morales said she would prioritize protecting voting rights and fighting the state takeover of the Houston Independent School District. As a member of the state House, Morales partook in the 2021 Democratic walkout of the state House to break the quorum needed to pass Republican-led voting legislation. She also organized state leaders and community organizations in an ad hoc hearing of Houston ISD parents to speak out about the state takeover, which she called ground zero of Republicans social policy agenda. Morales, who is Latina, will be running in a district that has a long history of Black representation in Congress, including Reps. Barbara Jordan, Mickey Leland and Craig Washington. In a brief interview, Morales said she knew she would have to "work harder than some of the other candidates in certain neighborhoods" to gain the trust of Black voters. But she added she'd expected greater pushback than she's received. She noted that the demographics of the district are shifting to be increasingly Latino. "It doesn't matter the race, gender, religion, of any of the constituents. The fight is the same," Morales said. "What holds it together is the progressive values." Aside from serving in the state House, Morales runs her familys funeral home in Houstons East End. The full program is now LIVE for the 2024 Texas Tribune Festival, happening Sept. 57 in downtown Austin. Explore the program featuring more than 100 unforgettable conversations on topics covering education, the economy, Texas and national politics, criminal justice, the border, the 2024 elections and so much more. See the full program. DENVER (KDVR) Denvers sanctioned outdoor shelter spaces are undergoing some changes. The Colorado Village Collaborative has partnered with Denver since 2020 to open several sites, which were first realized as secure and sanctioned safe outdoor space tent encampments at locations across the city. The effort expanded to include a micro-community and tiny home villages. These new Colorado laws go into effect Aug. 7 Now the group says it will focus more on micro-communities to offer more expansive accommodations. By shifting these models to Micro-Communities, we will be able to provide a more dignified shelter experience, around-the-clock support, and increased stability for both community members and staff, the collaborative wrote in an email on Monday. Changes coming to Denver outdoor shelter sites Here are the immediate changes in store: Denvers tiny home village communities will expand by five units built in partnership with Cherry Creek Innovation Campus students. The safe outdoor space at Denver Human Services East will be upgraded from tents to pallet shelters with fixed plumbing, holding 41 units and up to 51 people. The safe outdoor space at Arie P. Taylor Municipal Center in Montbello, which is too small to upgrade to a micro-community, will close before its permit expires this fall. In the meantime, residents and staff at the Denver Human Services East and Montbello sites have been moved to other shelter locations, the collaborative said, with some community members upgraded from tents to tiny homes or manufactured units at La Paz Micro-Community. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox La Paz Micro-Community opened in March. Each of its 60 shelters has a bed and desk, and the site has a shared community space with restrooms, showers, a kitchen and gathering spaces. The site has on-site support services and food provided by The Salvation Army, with bedding and toiletries given on entry. Colorado Village Collaborative said it expects another 60 units at the site later this year. The collaborative said it remains committed to providing culturally responsive services and is working with external partners to train staff and implement practices that ensure inclusivity and respect for diverse cultural backgrounds. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. DENVER (KDVR) More rain is moving into Denvers weather alongside cooler temperatures this week. Weather tonight: Rain clearing Monday night showers will clear. Low temperatures will fall to the mid-60s, which is about 5 degrees above normal for this time of year. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up for weather alerts from the Pinpoint Weather team Weather tomorrow: Chance afternoon showers Tuesday will look similar to Monday with morning sunshine and a high in the mid-90s. There will also be a chance for showers in the afternoon and evening. Looking ahead: Cooler temps, better rain chances Wednesday continues the trend of morning sunshine, a high in the 90s and a chance for afternoon showers and storms. Denver sees some of the most 100-degree days this summer Thursday and Friday will bring a better chance for rain and cooler temperatures. High temperatures on both days will struggle to even reach 80 degrees, which is nearly 10 degrees cooler than normal. By the weekend, showers will become a little more spotty in the afternoon as high temperatures start to rebound back to the mid-80s. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) A Depew woman will spend the minimum amount of time behind bars after stealing more than $719k from a Buffalo business over the course of seven years, the Erie County District Attorneys Office announced. 59-year-old Camille Pirrone-Hess stole $719,122.41 between July 8, 2016 and Aug. 7, 2023 while working as an office manager at Lancaster Tanks and Steel Products. On Monday, she was sentenced to just 1 1/3 to 4 years in prison. The minimum term of incarceration for the crime was 1 to 3 years in prison. Today, my office supported the victims and asked the court to impose the maximum sentence of 15 years in prison for this outrageous crime, said Acting Erie County District Attorney Mike Keane. This defendant stole over $700,000 from these victims, causing them lifechanging financial harm, and ultimately the sale of their business. Unfortunately, the court imposed a sentence close to the minimum term of incarceration. Using the company credit card, Pirrone-Hess made more than 2,000 unauthorized purchases on items such as event tickets, vacations, her childs college tuition, utility bills, donations to charity, furniture, jewelry and electronics. Back in May, News 4 spoke to John and June Brennan, the family who owned the business she stole from. They said while Pirrone-Hess was paying for her childrens tuition on their credit card, they had to take out loans for their own childrens schooling. While she was going out to fancy restaurants, John brought bagged lunches to work. She spent their money on a cabana at a high-end Las Vegas resort, a helicopter tour while on a vacation paid for by the Brennans, and even a wood-burning stove for her boyfriends house. We saw her every day and she was aware of the difficulties of running a small manufacturing business in WNY, yet it didnt seem to concern her in the least, John Brennan said back in May. Were taking out loans and struggling to make payroll, and yet, shes living a life of luxury. She pleaded guilty to second-degree grand larceny, the highest sustainable charge, on May 13. As a condition of the plea, she agreed to pay full restitution to the victims in the amount of $719,122.41. She has not paid back any of the money yet as of Monday. Latest Local News Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University. Kelsey Anderson is an award-winning anchor who came back home to Buffalo in 2018. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. MANILA, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines' total external trade in goods decreased by 11.3 percent in June 2024 to 15.44 billion U.S. dollars from 17.4 billion dollars in June 2023, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Tuesday. Of the total external trade in June, the agency said 63.9 percent were imported goods, while the rest were exported goods. The PSA said the balance of trade in goods, the difference between export and import value, amounted to -4.3 billion dollars in June, indicating a trade deficit with an annual increase of 9.3 percent. China was the Philippines' largest supplier of imported goods, valued at 2.6 billion dollars, or 26.3 percent of the country's total imports in June, the agency said. The United States contributed the highest export value in June, with 897.8 million dollars, or 16.1 percent of the total exports in June, the PSA said. (EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.) Deputies from the El Paso County Sheriffs Office (EPSO) intercepted two attempts to smuggle a total of 27 fentanyl pills into the El Paso County Jail within three days, according to an EPSO announcement on Tuesday, August 6. EPSO reported that Samantha Peterson was booked into the jail on multiple traffic charges and an outstanding warrant on Tuesday, July 23. She was offered the chance to surrender any contraband under Sheriff Roybals Contraband Reduction Drug Amnesty Program, but she refused. During intake, deputies discovered a foreign object inside her body. She later surrendered the object, which turned out to be three fentanyl pills. Courtesy: El Paso County Sheriffs Office Courtesy: El Paso County Sheriffs Office On Friday, July 26, deputies booked Domenic Dangelo into the jail after he was arrested on unrelated warrants. He was also offered the opportunity to surrender contraband under the same program, and he also refused. During his intake process, deputies found he was trying to conceal a foreign object, which he then surrendered. It contained 20 fentanyl pills, and four more pills were found on his property. From the start, Ive made it clear: anyone bringing dangerous contraband into our jail will be held accountable. This latest success is a testament to the dedication of my deputies and professional staff in keeping the El Paso Jail safe by intercepting contraband, said Sheriff Joseph Roybal. Since I was sworn in as Sheriff in 2023, weve reduced contraband entry by 22%, and this year, were on track to achieve a 33% reduction. With upgraded scanners, the Contraband Reduction Drug Amnesty Program and diligent police work, were making a significant impact and ensuring accountability. Both Peterson and Dangelo were charged with the introduction of contraband, which can carry up to six years in the Colorado Department of Corrections. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. Body found in submerged vehicle registered to missing person near Browns Ferry Landing, coroner says GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) Georgetown County deputies are investigating after a body was found in a submerged vehicle Monday. A dive team out of Columbia was searching for a man missing from Mount Pleasant since 2015 on Monday when they found human remains in a vehicle registered to the missing person near the Browns Ferry Landing on Black River, according to the Georgetown County Coroners Office. The divers were searching this area because that is where the missing persons phone last pinged. According to the Georgetown County Sheriffs Office, law enforcement and emergency crews responded to the scene Monday afternoon. The coroners office has not yet identified the deceased. However, the office said the remains were collected. The office will work to identify the remains through dental records. This story is developing. Keep checking counton2.com for updates. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. Deputy Who Killed Sonya Massey Claimed He Thought She Intended to Kill Him Sean Grayson was charged with murder after shooting Massey in her home Facebook Sonya Massey The Illinois sheriffs deputy who shot and killed Sonya Massey claimed he thought he was in danger during the fatal encounter, according to a deputys field report released on Monday, Aug. 5. Sean Grayson, a former Sangamon County Sheriffs Office deputy, was charged with first-degree murder after he shot Massey, who was unarmed and had called 911 on July 6, fearing there was an intruder in her home. The entire incident was captured on a body camera. Right before she was shot, Massey had gotten up to remove a pot of hot water from the stove and said, I rebuke you in the name of Jesus. According to Graysons field report, reviewed by PEOPLE, the former deputy believed Masseys words were a threat. Sangamon County Jail Sean Grayson I interpreted this to mean she was going to kill me, Grayson wrote. I drew my weapon and pointed it at Sonya. Grayson wrote that he felt imminent fear that Massey was going to throw the pot of boiling liquid at him when he fired the shot. Related: Sonya Massey's Children, 17 and 15, Are Taking It a 'Day at a Time' After Mom Was Killed by Police, Says Uncle (Exclusive) In the body-camera footage, reviewed by PEOPLE, it is not clear if Massey did intend to throw the pot at Grayson or his partner. When the shot was fired, Massey is not seen on camera. Grayson, who was hired in May 2023, was indicted on charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct on July 17 and has since pleaded not guilty. He was fired by the sheriffs office in the aftermath of the shooting. After Masseys death, President Joe Biden said she should be alive today, and that he was heartbroken. Related: Body Cam Footage of Sonya Massey Killing Released as Biden Mourns 'Unthinkable' Police Shooting of Black Woman Sonyas death at the hands of a responding officer reminds us that all too often Black Americans face fears for their safety in ways many of the rest of us do not, Biden added. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. Masseys family has since hired prominent civil rights attorney Ben Crump. Raymond Massey, Sonyas uncle, spoke to PEOPLE and said his niece was a loving and caring mother of two teenage children. It's burning so deep, Massey said. Every family member is going through that right now. But the kids, you have to say that's twofold. To help combat systemic racism, consider learning from or donating to these organizations: Campaign Zero works to end police brutality in America through research-proven strategies. ColorofChange.org works to make the government more responsive to racial disparities. National Cares Mentoring Movement provides social and academic support to help Black youth succeed in college and beyond. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Deputy who shot Sonya Massey thought her rebuke in the name of Jesus indicated intent to kill him Sean Grayson, a former deputy with the Sangamon County Sheriffs Office in Illinois, faces charges in the shooting death of Sonya Massey. - Sangamon County Jail/WISC The deputy sheriff who fatally shot Sonya Massey in her Illinois home last month said he believed that when the Black woman who called 911 for help unexpectedly said, I rebuke you in the name of Jesus, that she intended deadly harm, according to the deputys field report released Monday. I interpreted this to mean she was going to kill me, Sean Grayson wrote, adding that when he drew his pistol and Massey ducked behind a counter that separated them, he moved around the obstacle fearing that she was going to grab a weapon. Grayson, a 30-year-old Sangamon County Sheriffs deputy, faces first-degree murder, aggravated battery and official misconduct charges in the death of the 36-year-old Springfield woman on July 6 which has drawn nationwide protests over the killing of Black people by police in their homes. Grayson has pleaded not guilty. His attorney, Daniel Fultz, declined to comment Monday. Masseys family has called for the resignation of Sheriff Jack Campbell who has refused to step down arguing that problems in Graysons past should have precluded a law enforcement assignment. The family has hired civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who did not immediately respond to requests for comment by phone, email or text. Grayson and a second unidentified deputy answered her call about a suspected prowler just before 1 a.m. Inside her home, Grayson directed that a pan of water be removed from a burner on the stove. Grayson and Massey shared a chuckle as he warily moved away from the hot steaming water. Sonya turned to face me holding the pot. I did not know the type of liquid that was boiling, Grayson wrote in his report three days after the incident. I advised Sonya to put the boiling liquid down. Sonya stated (she) was going to rebuke me in the name of Jesus. She stated this twice. I interpreted this to mean she was going to kill me. Masseys family has said that Sonya Massey struggled with mental health issues. She met the deputies at her front door by repeating, Please God and inside the house, asked Grayson to pass her a Bible. Upon hearing the religious admonition, Grayson then drew his pistol and barked commands to drop the (expletive) pot. Massey ducked behind the counter, rose up and appeared to grab the pan again before diving for cover. Grayson said he stepped toward and around the counter to keep Massey in sight, wary that she might have a hidden weapon. As I approached the cabinet, Sonya stood up from a crouched position, grabbing the pot, raising it above her head and throwing the boiling substance at me, Grayson reported. I was in imminent fear of getting boiling liquid to my face or chest, which would have caused great bodily harm or death. Its unclear from the video whether Massey attempted to toss the pans contents, and she was obscured from view when Grayson fired three 9 mm rounds, one of which struck Massey just below the eye. His report then indicates he looked down to see the liquid had hit my boots and I observed steam coming from the cabinet area. By the time he completed the field report July 9, Grayson had been placed on administrative leave. The document indicates he received department permission to review the body camera video, the bulk of which had been recorded on the other deputys camera. Grayson said he thought his was on when the two first met Massey at the door, but he didnt turn it on until just after the shooting. The other deputys report was not part of the release, which included seven other officers reports of their activities at the site of the shooting and all completed on July 6 and one completed July 7, heavily redacted before release, by a deputy who had a casual conversation with someone who was familiar with Massey. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Sean Grayson, the former deputy sheriff who shot Sonya Massey, claims that he thought she was going to kill him. According to Graysons field report from July 9, when Massey unexpectedly stated I rebuke you in the name of Jesus, the officer thought that she was going to kill me. Body-cam footage shows Grayson and his partner speaking to each other in her Illinois home. Massey can be heard saying, I rebuke you in the name of Jesus twice as she holds a pot of boiling water. The report claims that he gave her loud, clear verbal commands to unhand the pot, to which she then ducked and said, Im sorry. As I approached the cabinet, Sonya stood up from a crouched position, grabbing the pot, raising it above her head, and throwing the boiling substance to me, Graysons report continued. I was in imminent fear of getting boiling liquid to my face or chest, which would have caused great bodily harm or death. I fired my duty weapon in Sonyas direction. I observed Sonya fall to the ground behind the counter. The Rev. Al Sharpton speaks alongside family members of Sonya Massey during a press conference at New Mount Pilgrim Church on July 30, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. Massey was shot and killed in her home by Sangamon County Sheriffs Deputy Sean Grayson after she called police to report a possible prowler. Grayson, 30, who has since been fired by the department, was indicted by an Illinois grand jury. He has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct. In the video capturing the shooting, Grayson can be heard telling Sonya, You better f**king not, I swear to God Ill f**king shoot you right in your f**king face, as a response to her going near the pot of water. Grayson, 30, is currently facing first-degree murder, aggravated battery, and misconduct in connection with Masseys July 6 death. The former deputy sheriff pleaded not guilty on July 18 at the Sangamon County Court. He was then fired from the sheriffs office following the deadly incident, which has sent the nation into an uproar. Demonstrations and protests sprang up around the country, calling for justice in the death of 36-year-old Sonya Massey. Black community leaders have taken to the streets, calling for police reform. Some people, including Masseys father, have called for Jack Campbell, the sheriff in charge of former deputy Grayson, to resign, as per USA Today. As a response, Sheriff Campbell declined to resign and instead asked for forgiveness. The Rev. Al Sharpton speaks during a press conference for Sonya Massey at New Mount Pilgrim Church on July 30, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. Massey was shot and killed in her home by Sangamon County Sheriffs Deputy Sean Grayson after she called police to report a possible prowler. Grayson, 30, who has since been fired by the department, was indicted by an Illinois grand jury. He has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct. More from VIBE.com Despite lapse in compensation for downwinders, there are still more than 1,000 pending claims A fireball rises into the sky over Nevada after the U.S. government detonated a 61-kiloton device on June 4, 1953. Nuclear weapons experiments at the Nevada Test Site spread fallout to other states, including Arizona, research and records show. (Photo via Getty Images) Its been two months now since Congress let the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, or RECA, expire, leaving people in the West who were exposed to fallout from nuclear weapons testing with no financial recourse. Now, data from the U.S. Department of Justices Civil Division shows there are more than 1,000 pending claims for compensation as of the end of July. Thats a massive increase compared to this time last year, when there were just 236 pending claims. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Its unclear whats driving the surge the Union for Concerned Scientists said in a news release that the increased media attention around RECA in the days leading up to the acts expiration on June 10 could have raised public awareness. Or, it could be that applicants rushed to submit their claims ahead of the deadline, resulting in a backlog. Whatever the reason, payouts from RECA are still in demand. The effects are lingering, its not over. Its not something from our past, this is very much our present and could very well be our future. Some of those diseases can take decades to show up, so nobody connects the dots that thats what happened, said Mary Dickson, a Salt Lake City downwinder and cancer survivor who for years advocated for Congress to expand RECA. Dickson spoke on Thursday during a screening for the film Silent Fallout, from the Japanese director Hideaki Ito. The film chronicles the global impact of U.S. nuclear weapons testing during the cold war, from British soldiers stationed in the Pacific who stood in the shadow of mushroom clouds, to Las Vegas residents who from their living rooms could see flashes from the bombs during above-ground testing in Nevada. The film also explores the lasting effects of radiation in Utah, interviewing residents of St. George who lost much of their family to cancer and people living in Salt Lake City who have never been eligible for compensation because of RECAs limited scope. Whole neighborhoods were plagued with bone, lung, testicular, brain, breast and thyroid cancer; children were diagnosed with rare autoimmune diseases like lupus; and rates of leukemia skyrocketed in small, rural towns along the Utah-Nevada border. Similar to how smoke from wildfires in the northwest U.S. now fills the Salt Lake Valley, western winds would transport radiation from the mushroom clouds in Nevada, some of which would tower miles in the air. Radioactive materials like Iodine-131 were then brought back down to the ground by rain or snow, contaminating the soil and exposing Utahns to dangerous levels of radiation. According to recent findings from the University of Utah, the entire state was blanketed by Iodine-131. And studies show the fallout traveled well beyond Utahs borders, with radiation detected as far as upstate New York. I was astonished by the contamination from the atomic and hydrogen bomb testing, Ito said after the screening, speaking through a translator. It just contaminated the entire American continent. Congress passed RECA in 1990, but advocates have long decried it as inadequate. And in June, despite the introduction of several bills that would have expanded or extended RECA, Congress let the bill expire. In Utah, the governments radiation compensation program covered residents who lived in one of 10 counties Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane, Millard, Piute, San Juan, Sevier, Washington and Wayne for two consecutive years from 1951 to 1958, or during the summer of 1962. People who worked in uranium mines, mills or transporting ore in Utah from 1942 to 1971 were also eligible. Now, no one is eligible. Applications that were postmarked on and before June 10 are being processed, but downwinders who tried to file claims after that will not receive compensation as long as Congress allows the lapse to continue. Dickson said there are many downwinders who are just now realizing the impacts of living close to nuclear testing, despite the last above ground explosion occurring in 1962. We will forever be living with fallout, she said. Forever. On Friday, a spokesperson for GOP Sen. Mike Lees office said he believes Congress will revive RECA soon. It could be a clean reauthorization which would simply extend the timeframe of the previous program or a bill Lee introduced that would expand compensation for all of Utah, and parts of New Mexico and Missouri. Senator Lee supports both the clean 2 year extension of RECA he introduced in the Senate and his expanded Downwinders Act that includes coverage for all of Utah and populations in New Mexico and Missouri. He is optimistic that the House and Senate will come to an agreement before the end of the year, said Bill Gribbin, Lees communications director. Meanwhile, staff for Rep. Blake Moore, also a Republican, told Utah News Dispatch on Friday that he supports a bill initially introduced in 2023 by Wyoming Republican Rep. Harriet Hageman. Called the Uranium Miners and Workers Act of 2023, the bill extends RECA benefits to people who worked in a uranium mine or mill until 1978, but still excludes much of Utah. Congressman Moore remains supportive of Congresswoman Hagemans bill, and he is optimistic that it will be passed this year, reads a statement from Moores office. Regardless of what Congress eventually passes, Ito had some strong words for how the government has responded to the plight of downwinders, pointing to the research suggesting all of the U.S. was exposed to some level of radiation. All Americans are downwinders in some way, he said. Im very troubled by the fact that only downwinders are currently compensated, he said. The fact that the citizens in the U.S. were exposed at all is the first problem. By my logic, I believe everyone who was exposed should be compensated. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Beset by security issues at home and along its borders, the Indian government unveiled its Fiscal Year 2024-25 defense budget on July 23. Funds amounted to 6.219 trillion rupees, or approximately $74.3 billion in U.S. dollars, according to a government press release. Defense received the highest share of any government department 12.9% of the union budget with Delhi stating in the release that the figure was 4.79% higher than last years defense budget and 18.43% higher than the FY2022-23 sum. While the development sounds positive at face value, the 2024-25 defense budget is actually just 0.06% higher than last years total defense expenditure. The close proximity of these figures relates to Prime Minister Narendra Modis announcement in February, shortly before national elections, of an extra interim defense budget. These numbers reflect the grave security situation that India faces due to longstanding tensions with Pakistan. Whats more, India perceives a major defense challenge from China, which is a far larger economy and is spending more than India on its own defense, Antoine Levesques, a research fellow at the International Institute of Strategic Studies, told Defense News. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute calculated Indias defense expenditure at 2.4% of GDP in 2023. By comparison, China, with its much larger economy than Indias, spends about 1.7% of its share of GDP on defense, Professor Manjeet S. Pardesi, of the Centre for Strategic Studies at New Zealands Victoria University, told Defense News. So, in a numerical sense, India is spending an adequate amount. The real issue is how this sum is being spent. If India continues to invest in building the capabilities to defend against and deter China (and Pakistan), then Indias defense spending is adequate. ... [However,] the challenge for India is that China is rapidly expanding its capabilities and is increasingly technologically capable in terms of indigenous defense production while spending a smaller share of its GDP on defense than India. The Arjun main battle tank is an indigenous product, but it was delivered to the Indian Army behind schedule and over budget. (Gordon Arthur) Budget breakdown India allocated its latest defense budget with 27.66% on capital assets; 14.82% on sustainment and operational preparedness; 30.66% on pay and allowances; 22.7% for defense pensions; and 4.17% for civil organizations under the defense ministry, the MoD revealed. The capital outlay of 1.72 trillion rupees will further strengthen the capabilities of the armed forces, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Delhis announcement claimed this amount rose 9.4% from last year to fill critical capability gaps through big-ticket acquisitions, such as fighters, ships, submarines, drones and vehicles. In its press release, the MoD promised 75% of this modernization budget would go to domestic industry. However, India did not break down figures for each armed service, something its done in previous years. Sustainment and operational readiness, meanwhile, received INR920 billion, up 48% compared to two years ago. The money will facilitate procurement of ammunition, mobility of resources and personnel as demanded by the security situation and strengthen the deployment in forward areas for any unforeseen situation, government officials wrote. Infrastructure along tense borders also received a boost. Up 30% year on year, this allocation of INR65 billion to the Border Roads Organisation will further accelerate our border infrastructure, Singh wrote on X. Key projects include the high-altitude Nyoma Airfield and 2.5-mile-long Shinku La tunnel in the northwest part of the country. India has a vibrant naval shipbuilding sector, which has produced the likes of INS Kamorta seen here, an anti-submarine corvette. (Gordon Arthur) Emphasis on self-reliance India faces a challenge in achieving a defense procurement balance between foreign purchases versus upscaling and upskilling its native defense industry, Levesques told Defense News. The Modi 3.0 government is keen to find new domestic policy margins to loosen this dilemma, with the help of foreign partners able and willing to invest in Indias defense industrial base and next-generation co-production and co-creation, he said. This approach is seen in Aatmanirbharta, a Modi government catchphrase that translates to self-reliance. Correspondingly, the defense budget saw a huge increase for the Innovations for Defence Excellence scheme, which encourages indigenous technological innovation. Last years INR1.15 billion rose to INR5.18 billion in 2024-25, the MoD revealed. The value of defense production hit record levels of INR1.27 trillion (U.S. $15.2 billion) in FY2023-24, according to an MoD press release published July 5. State-owned entities achieved 79.2% of this production, with private firms claiming the remainder. This number came in 16.7% greater than last year and 60% higher than four years ago, the ministry stated. Still, while India has had some limited successes in areas like the development of missiles, indigenous defense production or self-reliance is a long-term goal at best, Victoria Universitys Pardesi told Defense News. India will continue to partner with the U.S., France and even Russia, he added. [Not] becoming too dependent upon one single partner ... will allow India to exercise a degree of strategic autonomy. Simultaneous to boosting domestic production, Indias defense exports topped new heights as well, reaching INR210 billion (U.S. $2.5 billion) in FY2023-24. This was up an impressive 32.5% year on year. Kamala Harris speaks to Barack and Michelle Obama as they endorse her candidacy for the White House on Friday July 26 2024 (Barack Obama/X) Progressives were some of the loudest Democrats cheering on Twitter after Kamala Harris announced her selection of Tim Walz as her running mate on Tuesday. But they werent the only winners in the party. Some of the biggest political victors as the Minnesota governor joined the presidential ticket were the biggest power players in the Democratic Party, whose influence has now been solidified after their involvement on the winning side of two monumental battles that have taken place in Democratic politics over the past month and a half. At the top of the list: Barack Obama and Nancy Pelosi. The former president and speaker of the House were both reported to have been involved in Pelosis case, very directly in both the efforts to convince President Joe Biden to step down from the 2024 ticket and for his replacement, Kamala Harris, to select Walz as her running mate. Nancy Pelosi, no longer leader of the House Democratic caucus, still wields considerable power in the lower chamber and within her party. (Getty Images) Harris named Walz as her vice presidential nominee on Tuesday, ending weeks of speculation and a shadow campaign which had come down Walz, Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro, and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly. Neither of the partys two biggest kingmakers have been particularly eager to claim any glory in public. Pelosi, for her part, attempted to tamp down on speculation surrounding her role in the former discussion when asked about it by Lesley Stahl this past weekend on CBS Sunday Morning. She did not, however, deny Stahls assertion that Biden was furious over her perceived betrayal. Tim Walz was selected as Vice President Kamala Harriss running mate on Tuesday, ending a weeks-long rumor mill over her pick. (AFP via Getty Images) He knows I love him very much, Pelosi said. She went on: I wasnt the leader of any pressure [campaign] ... Let me say things that I didnt do: I didnt call one person. I did not call one person. I could always say to him: I did not call anybody. Obama remains largely out of the political spotlight these days, and has said nothing publicly about his own role in discussions surrounding Bidens exit. But on Walzs ascension, the ex-president released a lengthy statement on Tuesday. Tims signature is his ability to talk like a human being and treat everyone with decency and respect not all that suprising considering the fact that he served in the National Guard for 24 years, wrote Obama and the former first lady Michelle Obama in a joint statement that added the pair couldnt be happier for Walz and his family. One of the many lessons that can be gleaned from Donald Trumps continued dominance over the Republican Party is the importance of backing winners whether that be winning political movements, winning candidates, or whatever else. Trump, while judicious in only handing out his endorsement to True Believers and loyal sycophants, also tends to only back candidates he thinks can win Republican primaries (his record in general elections is much more spotty). Obama and Pelosi both understand that notion, and Pelosi in particular is thought to have become a sympathetic ear to frustrated House Democrats in the past month or so due to her unceasing drive to help her party protect vulnerable seats in the House. While she never came out with a direct call for Biden to step aside, she made numerous statements which gave clear political cover to House Democrats who needed to do so to cover their own bases and respond to voter concerns in their districts. Its a move that may have infuriated the president, but one that was wholly predictable given that those same vulnerable Democrats in the House and Senate were privately worried about an electoral wipeout in November after Bidens disastrous June debate performance. Barack Obama, Joe Bidens former running mate, was widely reported to have backing Walz in the race to be Kamala Harriss VP. (Getty Images) And while theyve won no friends in Bidenworld, both Pelosi and Obama are certainly coming out looking like the wise elders of the party in the wake of Kamala Harriss promotion to the top of the ticket. Democrats around the country are reporting a surge in volunteers, while the Harris campaign has rejuvenated a fundraising operation that had atrophied as big donors closed their wallets following the debate. The vice president reported a $310m haul for the month of July, an impressive surge given that Biden was the presumptive nominee for the first half of the month and then some. Pelosi, as speaker emeritus and no longer head of the House Democratic caucus, is not cultivating political influence for her own future career prospects. Neither is Obama, who was already president for two terms and (rightfully) has no desire to directly enter the political sphere again. But both have clear interests in helping shape the future of liberal politics in America, and with these latest behind-the-scenes moves are in a prime position to continue doing so. Vice President Kamala Harris leads Donald Trump by 14 points in a new poll of New York voters, an encouraging sign for Democrats after President Joe Biden's shaky standing in the blue state before he quit the race. Harris, who vaulted to the top of the ticket only two weeks ago, led the Republican former president by 53% to 39% in a two-way matchup in poll results released Tuesday by Siena College. Biden had led by just eight points in a New York poll by Siena in June, a surprisingly narrow and shrinking gap in a state Biden won by 23 points in 2020. Former president Donald Trump at a debate against President Joe Biden, in Atlanta on June 27, 2024. / Vice President and former U.S. senator Kamala Harris at the Democratic presidential debate in Detroit on July 31, 2019. The landscape has changed since the last Siena College poll," Siena pollster Steven Greenberg said in a statement, noting stronger support for Harris than Biden among independents, women and Black voters. "The change at the top of the Democratic ticket has had a noticeable, while not dramatic, effect on the horserace." The phone survey of 1,199 likely voters over five days started on July 28, just a week after Biden ended his re-election bid. Here are some key takeaways from the results: Harris is stronger in suburbs a battleground for House races Biden's weak showing in New York City's suburbs in past polls had given Democrats good reason to worry he could drag down their candidates in tight House races. As many as seven swing seats in the suburbs and further upstate are in play in November and will help determine which party rules the House next year. In the June poll, Trump had led by seven points against Biden in the suburbs, which consist of Long Island and the Hudson Valley counties of Westchester, Rockland, Orange and Putnam. The new poll found Harris erased that gap with a 47% to 47% tie among suburban voters, which may ease Democrats' down-ballot jitters. Suburban voters also swung toward Democrats in a generic question about House races. Those who preferred a Democrat representative outnumbered those who wanted a Republican by three percentage points, reversing a four-point GOP advantage in June. Upstate voters those north and west of the Hudson Valley suburbs preferred Harris over Trump by two points and a Democratic House member over a Republican by two points as well. Harris' biggest margin was in New York City, where voters supported her over Trump by 67% to 25% a 42-point lead. Exit pleas: Pat Ryan is first House Democrat from New York to call for Biden to step aside Support for RFK Jr. has dropped to single digits Back in February, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was doing well for a third-party presidential candidate, polling at 13% in New York in a multi-candidate field with Trump, Biden and other minor contenders. RFK fans: RFK Jr. campaign pushes to get him on NY ballot. What do NY backers say about his chances? But Kennedy's support dipped to 7% in the new poll, mirroring national trends for his independent bid for the White House. Siena included him and three other third-party candidates each of whom failed to qualify for New York's ballot in a separate survey question, apart from the one-to-one matchup between Harris and Trump. Whether Kennedy can run in New York in November is still undecided. His ballot petition withstood a signature challenge, but now faces a court case about whether he wrongly listed Westchester County as his home rather than California, where he moved 10 years ago. An Albany judge is hearing that challenge this week, with Kennedy scheduled to testify on Thursday and Friday. Independent U.S. presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr speaks at Bitcoin 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee, U.S. July 26, 2024. REUTERS/Kevin Wurm GOP upside: voter perception on crime, migrants, costs One hopeful sign for Republicans? Voter gloom. Large majorities told Siena they felt that crime, the influx of migrants and the cost of living Republicans' three biggest campaign issues all had gotten worse. They also thought the scarcity of affordable housing had gotten worse. By 51% to 39%, more voters felt New York was going in the wrong direction than on the right track. Voters' views of Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul split the same way, giving her ratings of 50% unfavorable and 39% favorable. She fared better when voters were asked about her job performance: 46% approved and 49% disapproved. Gov. Kathy Hochul and Rockland Homes For Heroes Founder and President John Murphy tour the development in Tappan July 10, 2024. Equal Rights Amendment is popular A hefty majority of voters support a ballot proposal this fall to add abortion and LGBTQ rights to the state constitution. Voters supported the Equal Rights Amendment by 68% to 23% a 45-point margin. Support was strongest among Democrats, but 32% of Republicans and 64% of independents also were in favor. Strong voter majorities in all regions supported the amendment, including 62% in the suburbs and 63% upstate. Chris McKenna covers government and politics for The Journal News and USA Today Network. Reach him at cmckenna@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: 2024 presidential election: Did Kamala Harris alter NY voter outlook? DES MOINES, Iowa (KCAU) FEMA will open four more Disaster Recovery Centers in northwest Iowa. Those center will be at the Sioux Rapids Municipal Pool in Sioux Rapids; the Siouxland Regional Transit System on Gordon Drive in Sioux City; Iowa Lakes Community College in Emmetsburg, and the Dickinson County Expo Building meeting room in Spirit Lake. Rock Valley estimates 100 homes may be eligible for FEMA buyouts The former two will open on Wednesday, while the latter two will open on Thursday. All four will be open from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m on opening day, then 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Additionally, FEMA announced they will soon visit Monona County neighborhoods to help flood victims. However, no official date has been announced. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. PHNOM PENH, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia on Tuesday commended China Foundation for Peace and Development (CFPD) for its significant contribution to poverty alleviation in the Southeast Asian country. In a message marking the fifth anniversary of the CFPD Office in Cambodia, Samdech Techo Hun Sen, president of Cambodia's Senate, said the Chinese foundation has made contribution to strengthening unity, friendship, and cooperation between the civil societies of the two countries. "I highly appreciate the achievements made over the past five years by the China Foundation for Peace and Development Cambodia Office, under its close cooperation with the Civil Society Alliance Forum, in contributing to the benefit and meeting the real needs of the Cambodian people at the grassroots level," he said. Hun Sen said that examples included the Cambodia-China Friendship Village for Poverty Alleviation project, which helps improve the living standards of people in Tanorn village in southern Takeo province's Bati district, and CFPD's participation in combating the spread of the COVID-19 virus in 2020. "On this occasion, I wish the China Foundation for Peace and Development continued success in its noble mission for the peace and development of humanity, especially in contributing to building the shared future community of Cambodia and China," he said. Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Cabinet Minister Vongsey Visoth said close cooperation between Chinese and Cambodian NGOs has importantly contributed to building a high-quality, high-level, and high-standard Cambodia-China community with a shared future. He said the CFPD-funded poverty alleviation project in Tanorn vhas turned it into a beautiful and green village, with infrastructure such as roads, clean water facilities, solar power, health center, and school in place. "The CFPD has played an important role in connecting the hearts of our two peoples, as well as contributed to improving the livelihoods and well-being of the Cambodian people," he said during the celebration of the CFPD Cambodia Office's fifth anniversary in Phnom Penh. "I would like to congratulate Tanorn villagers, teachers, students and the whole community on receiving direct benefits from this project." Meanwhile, Visoth noted that the synergy between China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Cambodia's Pentagonal Strategy Phase I will inject stronger impetus into the cooperation in economy, trade, investment, tourism and education between the two countries. Neak Chandarith, director of the Cambodia 21st Century Maritime Silk Road Research Center, said the CFPD has played a vital role in supporting important joint projects and initiatives that have benefited the Cambodian people. "The continued Chinese commitment to this endeavor is a testament to the strength of our bilateral partnership and is especially significant to strengthening the people-to-people bond between our two nations," he told Xinhua. The CFPD has played a commendable role in supporting Cambodia's development and poverty alleviation efforts in recent years. He said one notable project is the Cambodia-China Friendship Village for Poverty Alleviation initiative launched in 2021 in Tanorn village. "With funding from the foundation, this project has transformed the village by developing critical infrastructure such as concrete roads, clean water systems, solar power, and flood prevention drainage," he said. Chandarith said China's role in assisting other developing countries like Cambodia to reduce poverty has been recognized by experts. "China's achievement in reducing poverty has served as a good example, and some of the experiences can be applied in Cambodia, adapting to local conditions," he said. Bettmann In April 1968, Columbia University students opposed to the Vietnam War took over Hamilton Hall, protesting the schools ties to the United States military and its fraught relationship with the surrounding neighborhood of Harlem. In April 2024, pro-Palestinian Columbia students took over that same academic building. Thats not the only similarity between our current moment and that one. As was the case in 1968, we are in the midst of an increasingly unpopular war this time, Israels US-backed actions in Gaza with young Americans predominantly leading the anti-war charge. We have a divisive US election, much like in 1968, and theres even a Kennedy running. In a particularly striking coincidence, this years Democratic National Convention (DNC) is set to take place this month in Chicago, the same setting for the 1968 DNC. The 1968 DNC, which occurred after the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Democratic presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, is infamous for the televised anti-war protests that were met with vicious police brutality. From August 26-29 of that year, as the Democrats cemented Lyndon B. Johnsons vice president Hubert Humphrey as their nominee, about 10,000 protesters gathered outside the convention to protest Johnsons Vietnam War policies. Then Chicago Mayor Richard Daley, in anticipation of the protests, mobilized law enforcement ahead of the convention, calling in 12,000 members of the Chicago police, the National Guard, and federal troops. During the course of the convention, police brutally beat protesters, but things reached a fever pitch on August 28, when the media televised the protests and violence both inside and outside the convention. By the end of the convention, 668 protesters had been arrested and hundreds were injured. The 1968 DNC showcased a massive divide in the Democratic Party and a widening rift in an increasingly polarized nation. Some speculated that the chaos contributed to Republican candidate Richard M. Nixons win that November. To learn more about what happened at the 1968 DNC, the fallout from it, and how that time compares to the one were in now, we speak with Heather Hendershot, a professor of media studies and author of When the News Broke: Chicago 1968 and the Polarizing of America. This conversation has been condensed and edited for clarity. Demonstrators Stuggle With Police Bettmann Group of People standing in front of row of National Guard soldiers, across from Hilton Hotel at Grant Park during Democratic National Convention, Chicago, Illinois, USA, Warren K. Leffler, August 26, 1968 Universal History Archive/Getty Images Teen Vogue: One parallel between 1968 and now is that polls have shown that the majority of Americans do not necessarily side with student protesters. There's similar language about the pro-Palestine students that says, They're privileged college kids. They don't know anything. Heather Hendershot: There's definitely a lot of resonance from 1968 to now, and what I like to say is resonance is not duplication, and it's also not prediction. You don't study history to look for how it's going to repeat itself; you study history to understand the past and, ideally, to do a better job in the present, to learn something that you can apply and do better moving forward. As for the specifics of the resonance from then to now, yes, we have war protests going on. There's not a solidified opinion across America against the war. There is definitely some antipathy toward the protesters. Like in 1968, you see the right weaponizing the protests, the right bringing college presidents before Congress and accusing them of promoting antisemitism on their campuses. To some extent, some of those [college presidents] who are not handling it well are being very responsive to the right, and are worried about being held before Congress and losing the support of their faculty or their board or their trustees because of these vicious attacks accusing them of being antisemites. That scenario, clearly, is different. And there isnt a draft right now we havent had years of boots on the ground [like in] Vietnam. TV: What can we expect to see at this years DNC, which is again in Chicago, as in 1968, and where there will likely be protests? HH: I think it is really important to think about Chicago as then versus now. In '68, Mayor Daley is a machine politician. [Theres a lot to suggest] he has the police in his back pocket. The police understand that they are doing what Daley would like in beating the protesters and showing that the city can maintain law and order, to use Nixon's language. Today, we have a Black progressive mayor in Chicago. He does not seem to have a harmonious relationship with the police force because he's more progressive than maybe the police force would like. You also have a major difference today, which is that the Clinton administration, in 1998, established these national, special security events that would be directed by the Secret Service under the auspices of the Department of Homeland Security. The Secret Service, in conjunction with the governor and theoretically the mayor's office, is managing the convention as a security event, so you have a different kind of top-down management than you had in '68, when the mayor was the man. TV: Set the scene for us: What was happening in 1968? HH: It's really hard to overstate how insane things were in America at that point. The Tet Offensive had occurred in Vietnam in January and February, and the catastrophic losses to both sides sent the message to many Americans that not only were they not about to win the war there, as the Johnson administration had been indicating, but that the war was just going to go on and on. You've also got Martin Luther King being assassinated in April. There are uprisings in about 125 cities with arson, looting, and police brutality, and people are seeing these images on TV. And then, in early June, Bobby Kennedy is assassinated. For many people, he was seen as the peace candidate. TV: What happened at the convention that August? HH: You have delegates showing up who have been Kennedy supporters, and they don't switch to Humphrey. They want to voice their protest at the convention. If Humphrey is nominated, they want him to soften the Vietnam plank and diverge from how Johnson was leading the war. So [some] delegates on the floor of the convention are holding up peace signs. They're staging the protest specifically for TV cameras. They want people at home to see that the Democratic Party is having a genuine debate about this issue. But it ends up looking like the party is not being democratic because they're not listening to the pro-peace delegates. They try to make the protesters stop, but they can't control the room. We remember the 1968 DNC for chaos in the streets in Chicago, which there was there was a tremendous amount of police brutality. On Wednesday, [August 28,] you had the so-called Battle of Michigan Avenue, where police beat protesters on television in the streets and arrest them for 17 minutes straight, while protesters are chanting, The whole world is watching! But it's important to think about how, [on that same night, the chaos] was also happening inside the convention hall. Dan Rather of CBS news was slugged. Mike Wallace from CBS is knocked down; he's almost trampled, and then he is arrested. Demonstrators Stuggle With Police Bettmann TV: What impact did the DNC chaos have on the rest of the election? HH: Before the convention, the idea that there was liberal-media bias, that was not the norm as an opinion; that was, to some extent, a regional complaint. Pro-segregationists in the South did not like how the Civil Rights Movement was covered, and how Birmingham was covered, and the fire hoses being shown and turned on civil rights activists. They thought the media was against them. And then you had people who were either inside or outside the South who were extremists, or just very far right, someone like William F. Buckley, who, in his magazine, National Review, argued that the media was infused with liberal bias. But the mainstream opinion before the 1968 DNC is that the media, CBS News, The New York Times, that these venues are striving for the highest journalistic standards. They're striving for as much objectivity as they can. They're trying to be balanced in their reporting. After the convention, the notion that the media is infused with liberal bias becomes much more nationalized and mainstreamed. It catches hold with Nixon's so-called silent majority and becomes something that the right, in particular, has weaponized ever since. TV: What did Americans think of the protests? HH: The majority of Americans didnt think what they saw on TV, like the Battle of Michigan Avenue, was police brutality. They thought the media covered it wrong. This was an idea that Mayor Daley in Chicago promoted and Nixon amplified. They thought that networks should have shown the protesters provoking the police, and that if they'd shown that part of the story, viewers would have seen that the protesters deserved to be beaten, which is very poor logic. You don't deserve to be beaten for shouting profanities at the police or even throwing objects at the police. But the attack ended up being more on the media than on the Chicago police. Nixon ran on that, and even after he is elected and in office, he keeps amplifying the idea that the media is against him. TV: So, despite the fact that news cameras caught police beating up protesters, the American public generally sided with the police in the protests. HH: You had a majority of people, in surveys taken afterwards, either saying the police used an appropriate amount of force or that they should have used more force. That was over half the country. Thats the commonly cited data, though what you hear less often is that they specifically polled Black Americans, as well, who did not hold that same attitude. Black Americans said, "Yes, this was police brutality. Yes, this was excessive force. But the white majority felt that it was not excessive. TV: A lot of people against the Vietnam War early on were young people who were most likely to get drafted. Would it be fair to say that most of the DNC protesters were younger Americans? HH: The protests in the street were very much dominated by younger people. You have members of Students for a Democratic Society; you have the hippies, and the Yippies [of the Youth International Party]; you also have an anti-war crowd of college students, some of them in coats and ties, some of them very, quote, "respectable-looking people." TV: The way we get information and see news events is very different now than in 1968. It doesn't matter in the same way what the media is showing because, if news cameras in the convention are not focusing on the protests, people have phones, they have TikTok. If there are protests at the convention, what are we likely to see? HH: That's a huge difference, and it's so important. In '68, Daley had not resolved an electrical workers' strike, which made it [virtually] impossible for the news to do live coverage in the streets. There were people out with 16-millimeter cameras who, technically, could have taken footage in the street, but their cameras were often struck down by police. The people were struck, and so were the cameras. As you say, now everyone's got a camera in their pocket, so we are going to see all these images from the street that, in '68, the networks showed rather sparingly. It's important to emphasize that people right after the convention were angry at the networks, scapegoated them, and said, "Why did you show us all these images?" [But the networks] held back for days. They under-covered the violence. This time, disruption or disorder or violence or positive protest and positive expression of political dissents, all of this range of imagery will be shown, and it would be impossible to shut that down short of finding a way to destroy the internet. Inside the convention hall, there's a great deal of capacity for control. It appears there are many people in the Democratic National Committee, the planners of the convention, who would like to replicate what went well for them during COVID, which was a lot of footage that they shot ahead of time, going from state to state and having a very controlled, sort of stage-managed media presentation, and then live speeches, acceptance speeches, important symbolic speeches, and so on. Outside, it is completely wide open. TV: What are some lessons we learned in 1968 that we could apply to 2024? HH: If you're talking about the media, I would say one thing that happened in '68 that would be great not to replicate is that the media portrayed the Republican Convention as a very, very orderly, stage-managed affair. They got low ratings because it was kind of boring. Everything dramatic that happened in Miami with the Republicans in '68 happened behind the scenes: Nixon making sure he got the nomination; Nixon conferring with Senator Strom Thurmond and other right-wing Southern political figures and crafting what was called the Southern Strategy to get the South behind him and not George Wallace, the segregationist who was running. But nobody saw that on TV, and nobody really had a sense that there were any problems in Miami. But there had been a riot near the convention that was related to it; that was a protest uprising. A number of Black people were killed. It just wasn't covered as related to the convention. And then the Democratic Convention was chaos. So the outcome in terms of public perception is: Republicans are orderly, together; these are the people who can get us out of Vietnam. Democrats: disorderly, chaos; they can't get us out of Vietnam. That was the perception that the media didn't intend to create, perhaps, but it's part of what they created nonetheless. TV: Any closing thoughts? HH: Hopefully, the fact that everyone can use a phone, text, and share images will have a positive impact and an impact no one could have foreseen in 1968. That level of sound and image-capturing and -spreading could happen, and it could be very positive. It really depends on what's amplified, what goes viral, what sticks and what doesn't stick. Stay up-to-date with the politics team. Sign up for the Teen Vogue Take Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue Want to read more Teen Vogue history coverage? EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A 39-year-old man has confessed to the murder of a man in Socorro after a verbal argument, according to court documents obtained by KTSM. Oscar Rodriguez, 39, was arrested and charged in the shooting death of Joel Holguin, 36. According to court records, Rodriguez is held on a $500,000 bond. EPCSO: Socorro man confesses to killing another man over argument Socorro Police Department officers spoke with a witness on Thursday, Aug. 1, who was a long-time neighbor of the victim and father of Rodriguez. The witness told police that Rodriguez got into an argument with the victim at roughly noon and said to the witness, Lo mate, (I killed him in English), according to court documents. The witness reportedly saw the victim lying on the side of his house with a gunshot wound to his chest. Rodriguez told the witness that the victim and Rodriguez got into a fight inside the victims home, according to court documents. Rodriguez told the witness that he had a gun, and the victim and Rodriguez then began to fight for the weapon. Rodriguez was able to gain control of the gun and shot the victim in the chest; the witness said Rodriguez had a handgun in his pocket, the documents show. Rodriguez told the witness to help put the victims body in the witness truck and threatened to shoot the witness if he didnt help. According to the documents, the witness told officers that he refused to help Rodriguez but allowed him to take his truck. These court documents also say that the witness said that Rodriguez drove to the side of the house, put the victims body in the bed of the truck, placed a piece of carpet over the body, and drove away. The witness said that Rodriguez was gone for several hours and arrived back at the residence on foot at roughly 2 p.m. As stated in the documents, the witness said that Rodriguez got the truck stuck in a canal bank near Dindinger and Glorietta Rd., then called a friend who did not know what happened and helped the witness and Rodriguez get the truck out. Ditch riders from the Lower Valley Water District, who were passing by, helped the group by removing the truck. The official documents also added that the witness said Rodriguez and he drove back to the residence and that Rodriguez had washed the trucks bed in the driveway. The witness said he left the residence and drove the truck to his daughters house at 7:11 p.m. The witness and his daughter went to Socorro Police Station to report the incident. According to court documents, the police arrived at the Socorro Police station at 10:25 p.m., where the red truck was parked. This detail provides a clear timeline of events following the incident. Police said they observed what appeared to be blood on the front passenger seat of the vehicle and also observed water and what appeared to be blood in the bed of the truck. Detectives obtained a search warrant for Rodriguez, and he was detained at his residence. Court documents showed that police met with Rodriguez, and he admitted to shooting the victim during a struggle for his gun inside his home. Rodriguez said that the victim was a long-time friend and neighbor, and the victim went over to drink with Rodriguez on Thursday, Aug. 1, Rodriguez said the victim became aggressive, and Rodriguez said that the victim usually carried a gun on him. He also said a struggle happened between the victim and him where he shot the victim, causing him to die on the front porch, according to court documents. Rodriguez said when the witness arrived, the witness told him to call the police, but Rodriguez panicked and decided to load the victims body into the truck and dispose of it, according to court documents. Rodriguez showed police where the victims body was left, in the desert area north of Interstate 10 and Fabens, several miles into the desert, ultimately ending in Hudspeth County. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. Since Allinson began lobbying for assisted dying to be legalised, people have come up to him in public to say 'Thank you' - Jay Williams Dr Alex Allinson clearly remembers the day that a patient in her 70s asked him for help in making her way to Dignitas, the assisted dying clinic in Switzerland. She said that she had come to the end, talked with her relatives and decided she wanted to go, Allinson, 58, recalls. This was in 2010, when laws in both mainland Britain and the Isle of Man (where he practises) meant he could not provide any help to the patient, who had terminal cancer. Allinson, who is also a member of the Isle of Mans parliament, the House of Keys, says his personal views on the matter were irrelevant. As a doctor and a politician, Ill always stay within the laws of the country that I work in, and so I had to act within the law then. But one of the reasons I went into politics is that I was increasingly working within what I found to be quite regressive laws that conflicted with my duties as a doctor. In 2010, a terminally ill patient came to Allinson asking for assistance in getting to Dignitas. At the time, the law meant he was unable to help her - Dying in Dignity Just over a decade before the request for help with Dignitas, he encountered a former patient with cancer whom he suspected might have taken matters into his own hands. The man, in his 80s and suffering from lung cancer, had been living in an Isle of Man hotel and unfortunately went downhill. Allinson a doctor for more than 30 years says, One morning I was called to come and see him, and by the time I arrived he had died. He was referred to the coroner and his blood tests showed very high levels of morphine. The inquest couldnt reach any conclusions because he left no notes. But I had this lingering suspicion: did he take things into his own hands? Official statistics show a much higher suicide rate in people with terminal diagnoses, Allinson says. Im not saying that assisted dying would stop that, he admits, but at least we could have the conversation. On this tiny British island, at least, terminally ill patients may soon be allowed more control over their fates. Thanks to Allinson, the Isle of Man is set to legalise assisted dying, after a private members bill he introduced in 2022 passed its third reading in the House of Keys last week. Decisions on the island have been made in parallel to those in Scotland, where an assisted dying bill was introduced at Holyrood in March this year. In Jersey, meanwhile, island politicians voted in May to approve plans for assisted dying to be made legal. The debate rages on in Westminster too former Labour justice secretary Lord Falconer introduced an assisted dying bill to the upper chamber last week. Days before, Health Secretary Wes Streeting said that the time has come for a parliamentary debate on the matter. In July, Lord Falconer introduced a bill in the House of Lords to legalise assisted dying - House of Lords This is not Allinsons first victory in changing Isle of Man law to reflect the predicaments of its citizens. The doctor was a key player in legalising abortion on the island in 2019. Before then, when a woman presented at his surgery with an unwanted pregnancy, all I could do was give her some numbers for clinics in Liverpool, he recalls. The overhaul was one of the issues he campaigned on when standing for election in 2016. The island now has one of the most progressive abortion laws in the UK, in that weve decriminalised it completely, says the doctor. His assisted dying bill has clearly been seen as progressive by many on the island, and has garnered much support. It was approved at its third reading by 16 votes in favour, against 8 dissenters, in the House of Keys . Now it must make its way to the islands upper chamber to be scrutinised, before achieving royal assent. Though the bill cannot be rejected after passing its third reading, it may yet come back with amendments that limit its powers. Regardless, Allinson sees the bills initial passing as a sign of just how much the islands culture has changed in the two decades he has lived there. He and his wife, Gerri, a nurse, are stop-overs, the term given to mainlanders whove lived on the island for at least three years. Dr Alex Allinson remains undeterred in his fight to legalise assisted dying, even as opponents brand him a 'eugenicist' - Jay Williams Allinson was brought up in central London and studied medicine at Kings College, Cambridge, graduating in 1987. He and his wife came over in 2001 for the quality of life and opportunities, having moved to take up a job as a partner at a GP practice. He remained a partner until August 2021, when he stepped down to focus on politics, though he continues to work locum shifts. Looking after people, revisiting people in terminal care, as well as the families around them, thats where my interest in assisted dying first came from, he says. There have been concerted efforts on the Isle of Man to change the law around assisted dying for two decades now, Allinson says. A former member of the House of Keys tried to have a similar bill passed in 2003, after which a committee was set up, which took evidence and did a report in 2006, but nothing else happened. The doctor says that the majority of people on the island are now in favour of a change in the law something that is reflected in the House of Keys decision. He adds that the parliament really responds to islanders wishes. For this reason, he is keen to shoot down the idea that any assisted dying bill would be a slippery slope towards more lax laws that pressure the elderly or sick to end their lives. Were not the same as Canada, where the Supreme Court ordered parliament to change its laws on assisted dying, he explains. The only way our laws could become more permissive is if our own parliament changes them. Allinson is a self-described progressive, but the assisted dying bill he has pushed is rightly quite restrictive, he says. It would be open only to those who have lived on the Isle of Man for at least five years, and who are terminally ill, with less than a year to live. Assisted dying 'should always be an option to those people who are dying and want to shorten their death, not their life,' says Allinson - Christian Keenan This is whats workable on the Isle of Man because it satisfies the concerns people had about it, says Allinson. It is in keeping with his personal views too, which in recent years were shaped by fraught conversations with his own terminally-ill father about assisted dying and what he wanted. Allinson explains: We never got to that stage because he ended up dying quite suddenly, but from a personal perspective it became much more real to me then. Today, the doctor believes that assisted dying should always be an option to those people who are dying and want to shorten their death, not their life. He adds: Its an important difference, and its why I object to the term assisted suicide. This is about giving people control when they already know that theyre going to die. Allinson finds that those who support his work are typically those that have their own family experiences. Last week I went to an art exhibition one night, and a number of people came up to me and said thank you, and shared their own stories, he says. Yet there are those on the island who say that the bill will not go far enough while Dignitas have been quite critical of the bill and have called it too restrictive. There are also those on the island who have called Allinson and other proponents of the bill eugenicists and accused them of dealing with ill people and the elderly with disdain. Allinson says, One of the things I do regret is that the medical society [of doctors on the island] has come out against the bill, as Ive worked with a lot of those people. We have a significant difference of opinion they see it as a threat to recruitment and retention of doctors, and as a threat to the reputation of the island. Those concerns are a major reason why only those doctors who choose to take part can help a patient die. It has been suggested that the island would have a register of doctors, nurses and pharmacists willing to take part. Opinion on the island is far from unanimous, then, but it is still expected that those on the Isle of Man will be able to access assisted dying from 2027. Could this bring on a change in mainland Britain? The doctor doesnt think so, as the House of Keys recent decision is very much coincidental. On the Isle of Man, the law will soon change following two decades of serious debate among locals, Allinson says. Whereas in other parts of Britain, theres momentum for different reasons, such as campaign groups and very high-profile individuals driving change forward. What it does show of Britain more broadly, he says, is that as a society we are becoming more progressive. We talk much more today about mental health, illness, suicide, cancer and death. To me the natural extension to that is to talk about end of life care and choices. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Kamala Harris has selected a running mate in Tim Walz, Minnesotas current Democratic governor. The announcement came just hours ahead of a fundraiser at Temple University in Philadelphia, where the two are slated to make their first public appearance together. More from Sourcing Journal Prior to his tenure as Minnesotas governor, Walz completed several terms in the House of Representatives, served in the U.S. Army and worked as a social studies teacher. With just months until the 2024 election, Harris and Walz have a number of campaign stops planned as they fight to convince voters in swing states that they should back the Democrats in the presidential election. While Minnesota is not considered a swing state, Walzs home state, Nebraska, apportions its electoral college votes by district, which could score the duo some extra clout. His Midwesterner affect may be used to charm voters in tight battleground states, and his historical stances during his time as a politician may also be used in attempts to sway voters. Walz on climate In many circles, Walz has been considered a progressive governor, particularly after securing re-election in 2022. Like Harris, one of the issues he has been most outspoken about is climate change. In February 2023, the governor signed into law legislation committing the states utilities to 100 percent clean energy by 2040. Along the way, those utilities will be required to show theyre making progress; by 2035, they must be able to prove that at least 55 percent of the energy they sell comes from renewable sources, whether thats solar, wind, hydroelectric or biomass. If utilities cannotor do notmeet the benchmarks set by the state, they have the option to purchase carbon credits. At the time, Walz reiterated his view that climate change is one of the most pressing issues politicians and citizens face. Climate change impacts lives and livelihoods in every corner of our state, he said in a statement at the time. Minnesota will continue to lead the way on combating climate change, and well create clean energy jobs in the process. This bill is an essential investment in our future that will continue to pay off for generations to come. In May 2023, Walz signed a $2 billion bill that funded environmental priorities, which also included prohibitions on PFAS, often referred to as forever chemicals. It particularly affects carpets, childrens items and consumer goods. Come 2032, the state plans to completely ban PFAS use unless it is considered completely essential for health, safety or society and lacks alternatives. The law is considered one of the nations strictest on the forever chemicals. Austin Whitman, CEO of non-profit The Change Climate Project, said that level of granularity on a politicians record can be promising, but noted its anybodys guess whether Walzs previous work on climate will translate into federal-level regulations if he becomes vice president. Walzs progressive climate stances have not been exclusive to his time as governor, despite the fact that he represented a largely rural district. Though he sponsored some bipartisan bills during his time in Congress, he also voted for many Democrat-led policies, including the American Clean Energy and Security Act. The legislation, which was never enacted, in part proposed national cap-and-trade legislation, which would have worked to limit greenhouse gas emissions or force companies to pay for them. Whitman said that, though Walzs climate stances may be more progressive than some of the other names that were in the mix as a potential vice presidential nominee, he doesnt think that reality will hurt the campaign. Theyre going to be smart in the messaging, and theres no reason why going continuing along the same set of aggressive talking points around the importance of the clean energy revolution would handicap them in the general election. All the folks who are really craving clear messaging around climate are going to respond well to it, and similarly, the way its presented is also going to appeal to swing voters, he said. Whitman said if Walz becomes vice president, using storytelling as a tool when it comes to climate issues will need to be a core tenant of the administration. For example, Whitman noted, Walz and Harris may be able to use the Biden administrations legacy on climate to make forward movement in the future in a way the current administration has not yet capitalized on. [Walz] would be a fantastic messenger to talk about the benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act, which is something that the Biden administration has done really poorly atthey passed hundreds and hundreds of billions of dollars worth of climate stimulus, and [have] gotten very, very little political benefit from it, Whitman told Sourcing Journal. Hes the kind of person who could really bring that home to folks in blue collar jobs around the country, and that would be a really important step forwardto celebrate the past accomplishments, while talking about the need for continued future emphasis on climate. Walz on labor and trade During his political tenure, Walz has been widely regarded as a friend to unions of varying types. In 2023, he signed into law provisions for paid family and medical leave for nearly all employees in Minnesotaboth those working in private and public sectors. That law will take effect in January 2026 and will mandate that, as long as an employee was hired at least 90 days before their leave, their job will be protected. Walz also signed into law a controversial bill protecting workers rights, following similar bills out of New York and California. The law requires employers to provide written quota requirements that shows workers how their performance is tracked and measured, as well as transparency around the potential consequences they may face if they miss those quotas. And though Amazon was not explicitly mentioned in the text of the bill, some of the laws passed in response to workers wellbeing in warehouses has come as a result of reports that Amazons worker injury rate has been above national averages. That tough-on-Amazon stance could reflect that Walzs commitment to workers runs deeper than big dollars, as could Walzs commitment to gig workersin 2024, he enacted legislation mandating raises for rideshare drivers in the state, despite big dogs like Uber and Lyft threatening to stop operating in Minnesota. Walzs efforts toward protecting workers dont end there. As of July 2023, Minnesota was among the growing number of states that prohibits the enforcement of noncompete agreements. Walz signed that law into action despite major companies lobbying against the bill. And, unlike many other governors throughout the U.S., Walz has taken an active role on trade policy, even if sometimes just for Minnesota. During his tenure as governor, he has taken trade-specific trips to Australia, Finland, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea and Norway. In Australia, for instance, the governor worked to set the groundwork for increased exports from Minnesota into the continent. In South Korea and Japan in 2019, the governor set the tone that, despite a Donald Trump presidency and uncertain sentiment around its repercussions on trade in Asia, his administration remained steadfast in its commitment to a strong relationship with the countries. Walz on technology Governor Walzs track record on technology has not been as aggressive as Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who was said to be Walzs closest competitor in the Veepstakes. While Shapiro put forth an Executive Order on artificial intelligences use in state agencies and even penned a first-of-its-kind partnership with OpenAI to give state employees access to generative AI, Walz has been a bit slower to react to the emerging technology. Walz did sign legislation in 2023 that puts forth criminal violations for nonconsensual deepfakes. Thats an issue which seems to be close to fashion models hearts as generative AI improves the quality of the digital replicas and threatens the work they do unless monitored appropriately. As Harris running mate, its likely that Walz would continue to support putting safeguards into place when it comes to AI, said Michelle De Mooy, director of the Tech & Public Policy Program at Georgetown Universitys McCourt School of Public Policy. Walz doesnt have a long and storied history on technology, but he does have some, so what I think will happen is he will be mostly in line with the Biden-Harris administration, which is to say mostlypro investments in technology, alongside regulation, she said. Harris, during her time as vice president, has called for more stringent regulation of the technology, backed President Joe Bidens Executive Order on AI and has worked with AI industry leaders on voluntary commitments for safe, transparent development of large models. As history has shown, in the absence of regulation and strong government oversight some technology companies choose to prioritize profit over the wellbeing of their customers, the security of our communities and the stability of our democracies, Harris said last year. One important way to address these challengesin addition to the work we have already doneis through legislation, legislation that strengthens AI safety without stifling innovation. Because of Harris history in Silicon Valley, she has handled much of the tech-related policy for the current administration. De Mooy said, if Harris and Walz win the election, shed expect Walz may take a back seat on technology to start. However, given that AI and other emerging technologies have started to touch sustainability and labortwo areas Walz has shown a particular penchant forhe may take a more active role later on, should he be elected. To the extent that [Walz] is working on climate change, he will come into contact and be working with tech companies at some point. All of these sectors are so intermingled at this point, that my guess is he will maybe start to be a part of [the tech] conversation, regardless of whether thats his mandate or not. That would be my hope, too, because all of these sectors are so closely tied now, De Mooy told Sourcing Journal. Question: Several months ago, we moved out of our house and then rented it to a young man. His monthly rent payments have been paid on time, and he keeps the house immaculate. We recently received an email from one of our former neighbors saying that our tenant is a Level Two registered sex offender, and all of our former neighbors want us to kick him out. Do we have to evict him because he is on the sex offender registry? Do we have any liability if he causes someone harm in the neighborhood? Answer: A landlord is not required to rent to a registered sex offender, and there is no prohibition against a landlord renting to a registered sex offender. In other words, a landlord can choose to rent, or not to rent to a registered sex offender and should have no liability if their tenant commits a sex crime. Real estate: Arizona HOAs can foreclose for $1,200 in fees. What to know about the groups Note: The Arizona Department of Public Safety has a sex offender website with the addresses of all Level Two and Level Three registered sex offenders. Level One registered sex offenders are considered the least dangerous and are not on this website. Contact real estate attorney Christopher A. Combs at chris@combsandsaal.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Does a landlord need to evict a tenant on the sex offender registry? Dog dies one month after getting shot by an arrow in Greece ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) A dog in Greece died one month after he was shot by an arrow on Adeline Park. Bogart the dog (photo courtesy Brenda LaLoggia) On Saturday, July 10, the owner of the dog was taking him for a walk when the dog was hit in the torso with an arrow. It was alleged James Smith, 56, and Linnette Torres, 45, were doing target practice in their yard when their crossbow fired and hit the dog. Investigators believe they did not mean to shoot the dog. Police said the dog was taken to an urgent care and an animal hospital in Niagara Falls. The dogs owner posted on Facebook confirming that he died on Monday. Torres and Smith were arrested and charged with first-degree reckless endangerment. Torres faces an additional charge of fourth-degree criminal mischief. Its not clear if there will be more charges. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) The local community is celebrating after $3.2 million in funding has been announced to develop green spaces at four NYCHA developments, including a new state-of-the-art dog park. Four-year-old Coco Tyson, a French bulldog mix, loves to play outside and his owner Bryant Tyson says he loves all the attention. Coco was just one of the dogs who came out to celebrate the news that a state-of-the-art dog park was being built, thanks to the Public Housing Community Fund and the Helmsley Foundation. More Local News It was back in February 2023, that PIX11 first reported on the half a million dollars in funding opening up for Castlehill residents. After some brainstorming, residents got to vote on what they wanted. One idea kept coming up again and again from the people who lived here. Jeanette Salcedo, the tenant president at the Castle Hill houses says more than 800 of her neighbors voted and many wanted a place for their four-legged friends. Every detail of the park was led by the residents too, even the 32 dog waste stations, each one decorated by the children of Castle Hill. Also under construction is an updated BBQ area. Alex Zablocki is the executive director of the Public Housing Community Fund. More Monica Makes It Happen He says the space will be gorgeous and a place families here will enjoy and be proud of. A total of $3.2 million over three years will be split between four NYCHA developments: The Marlboro Houses and Roosevelt Houses in Brooklyn and Castle Hill Houses and Patterson Houses in the Bronx. In October, the park is expected to be complete. Coco will be a regular. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. The Department of Justice must return the horned helmet and spear QAnon Shaman Jacob Chansley sported while taking part in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol, a judge has ruled. Chansley, who was sentenced to 41 months in prison for his actions during the attack, asked the government to return the property it confiscated in May: a horned coyote-tail headdress and a pole with an American flag ziptied to it and metal spearhead. He won an early release in March 2023. The DOJ argued the items, which were used to project strength during the assault on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, should remain in federal custody. The Justice Department also said Chansley had challenged his conviction and sentence after previously expressing regret for storming the building. D.C. District Court Judge Royce Lamberth ruled Monday the items should be returned. Mr. Chansley has completed his prison sentence and much of his term of supervised release. Now, he has moved for the return of his property seized and still held by the government, including his spear and helmet, Lamberth wrote. As there is voluminous video and photo evidence of Mr. Chansleys conduct, his property is of little utility for an investigation or prosecution and the United States legitimate interests can be satisfied even if the property is returned, he wrote. The federal investigation into the Capitol breach has led to more than 1,000 arrests and hundreds of convictions. _____ Malaysia's Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli speaks at the launch of the Malaysia Semiconductor IC Design Park in Selangor state, Malaysia, Aug. 6, 2024. Malaysia aims to expand its domestic semiconductor design capabilities as it seeks to develop the sector and reduce its foreign dependence, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said on Tuesday. (Photo by Li Xiaoran/Xinhua) KUALA LUMPUR, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia aims to expand its domestic semiconductor design capabilities as it seeks to develop the sector and reduce its foreign dependence, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said on Tuesday. This is in line with the government's strategic direction to enhance the entire semiconductor ecosystem, covering both upstream and downstream sectors, particularly emphasizing original design manufacturers (ODM), he said at the launch of the Malaysia Semiconductor IC Design Park in Selangor state. "The interest in data centers will continuously drive the demand for semiconductors, and this presents opportunities because there is demand for chips," he said. "As this ecosystem takes place, data centers in Malaysia will begin to consider locally designed and manufactured chips. That is the consideration the government is looking for," he said, adding that the launch of the design park will create conditions to multiply the number of design companies. For his part, Selangor Chief Minister Amirudin Shari said the design park has the capacity to house more than 400 design engineers and has already been taken up by eight local and international firms. It will help spur the country's move towards high-tech manufacturing, he noted. "The primary goal of the park is to promote original design manufacturing, encouraging local involvement in product design, prototyping, and production ... it is about creating opportunities and driving growth," he said. "These microchips aren't solely used in our mobile phones. There will soon be thousands of these chips in each vehicle, especially new automotive products using high-end advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and operating using electric power instead of fossil fuels," he added. DOJ: Virginia man arrested for making thousands of threats against Vice President, top US officials VIRGINIA (DC News Now) A man from Virginia was arrested last week for making thousands of threats toward the President, Vice President and other public officials, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said Monday. Frank Lucio Carillo, 66, of Winchester, was charged after making thousands of posts and replies in online forums threatening violence toward top U.S. officials. According to court documents, the FBI was notified on July 27 of potential threats being made on the social media platform GETTR by someone with the username joemadarats1. The FBI found over 4,000 posts and replies made by the user targeting public officials, including President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and FBI Director Christopher Wray. Jewish Democrats race to Shapiros defense: Attacks are clearly antisemitic Vice President Harris was specifically mentioned 19 times by joemadarats1, including several threats of violence. In a February post, he said he had his AR-15 LOCKED AND LOADED, according to the DOJ. Authorities eventually linked the GETTR subscriber information to match joemadarats1 with Carillo, mapping his physical location in Winchester, Va. Open political discourse is a cornerstone of our American experience, said U.S. Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh for the Western District of Virginia in a news release. We can disagree. We can argue and we can debate. However, when those disagreements cross the line to threats of violence, law enforcement must step in. On Aug. 2, authorities searched Carillos home and found a 9 mm pistol, an AR-15 rifle and thousands of rounds of ammunition. On Aug. 5, Carillo made his initial court appearance and was charged with one count of making threats against the Vice President of the United States. The FBI Richmond Field Office, FBI Phoenix Field Office which first identified the threats and the U.S. Secret Service are investigating the case further. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Dolly Parton could help a lot of people as Tennessees honorary ambassador to loneliness Dolly Parton is a singular force of nature in Tennessee. Whether seeing her perform in a concert, in a film or on television; reading a child a book that she sent from her Imagination Library; or even just by wandering around Dollywood on a hot summer night, Dolly makes us feel more connected to each other in an inexplicable way. As Nashvilles Mayor David Briley noted in a 2019 proclamation recognizing Dolly Parton Day, We give thanks for Dollys unparalleled career as an entertainer and philanthropist and her ability to touch millions of lives everywhere with her moving music and her generous heart. It now would be fitting and poignant if Gov. Bill Lee formally named her as Tennessees first honorary ambassador to loneliness. Dolly Parton speaks to the audience at the Music City Center Fan Fair X Close Up Stage during the CMA Fest Thursday, June 6, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. Dr. Ruth pioneered the ambassador to loneliness post Such a position actually existed until a few weeks ago, but only in the state of New York. Another highly-visible, one-of-a kind celebrity recognized the widespread grave potential consequences of loneliness there. Like Dolly Parton, Dr. Ruth Westheimer was a frank, ebullient personality who gained enormous media fame. Millions of people were entertained and educated by her advice as a sex therapist. A quick review of the accolades she received when she passed away in early July at age 96 underscores the important role she played in this capacity. But her obituaries also revealed a lesser-known aspect of her public work. A year before her passing, she successfully lobbied New York Gov. Kathy Hochul to appoint her as the states (indeed, the nations) first honorary ambassador to loneliness. In doing so, Governor Hochul noted that Dr. Ruth Westheimer has offered her services to help older adults and all New Yorkers cope with the loneliness epidemic. More: Who will play Dolly Parton in her 'Hello, I'm Dolly' Broadway musical? Everything we know so far Surgeon general's report shows health consequences of loneliness In 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued a groundbreaking report that deserves to be reviewed closely once again. For the first time ever, loneliness was declared to be a national public health crisis, especially for Americas youth. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy spoke about opioids at Meharry Medical College as part of his "Turn the Tide Rx" national tour. He reported that from 2013 to 2019, the amount of time spent together by young people, in person with friends, declined 58%. Overall, the report found that one in two Americans reported measurable levels of loneliness. Additionally, multiple studies have demonstrated that the COVID-19 pandemic, when we all retreated to online human interaction almost exclusively, has contributed even further to this loneliness epidemic. The ripple effects of loneliness are palpable and dramatic. The surgeon generals report found that the physical health consequences of poor or insufficient human connection include a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% risk of developing dementia for older adults. Additionally, lacking social connection increases risk of premature death by more than 60%. Further, the report noted that with more than one in five adults and more than one in three young adults living with mental illness in the U.S., addressing loneliness and isolation is critical in order to fully address the mental health crisis. A powerful woman of action can help people who feel isolated Tennessee now poised is to address the loneliness epidemic with our own unique and beloved individual who embodies all the wonderful qualities of Dr. Ruth and then some. When Dolly speaks, people listen to her in a personal and neighborly way. She needs no more accolades, of course, but like Dr. Ruth, Dolly Parton is a powerful woman of action. If appointed, she can be counted on to help address loneliness throughout the Volunteer State, as a recognized face and a plain-spoken voice to help those who feel isolated. With Dolly in this role, there surely would be a greater sense that a caring individual is someone to look to when we are feeling alone. Stuart N. Brotman is an interdisciplinary professor of journalism and media at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Loneliness epidemic: Name Dolly Parton Tennessees honorary ambassador A week after a spray of gunfire turned a joyful community barbeque into a scene of despair and destruction, wounding five and killing two, there is little publicly known about the mass shooting. Police have not publicly identified any suspects. We dont know how many shooters they are looking for, except that they believe more than one individual was involved. We dont know whether the shooters were part of the gathering at Maplewood Park that Sunday afternoon or if they came from outside. We dont know what led to the bloodshed. Maplewood Park: Manhunt for mass shooting 'cowards' underway in Rochester At a news conference Monday afternoon, Deputy Chief Keith Stith called the shooting a top priority for the Rochester Police Department, with investigators working diligently to follow promising leads from witnesses. "Maplewood Park is our park," he said. Over 100 people had gathered there on July 28 to enjoy the summer sun and the park's vast collection of roses. There were infants, children, teenagers and grandparents present. Games and good food. Around 6:20 p.m., several dozen gunshots rang out over the course of a long minute, videos show, sending the crowd scattering in every direction. Seven people were hit by the gunfire. Many stopped to try and help the wounded. Two women died: Tyasia Manning, 25, and Phylicia Council, 34, were both Rochester residents, city school graduates and friends. Trauma support: Rochester offers spaces to talk, heal and grieve after Maplewood Park shooting RPD seeking community help after Maplewood Park mass shooting Over the last eight days, dozens of community members have reached out to the mayor's office and RPD daily with photos, video and other information from the shooting, Mayor Malik Evans said. "People in this community have had enough," he said Monday afternoon. Rochester responds to mass shooting: Tears shared, prayers shared at Parcel 5 vigil to honor Maplewood Park shooting victims Yet, police had few new details to share. Evans said city officials are trying to be cautious about what information they make public so not to jeopardize the ongoing investigation. "There are lots and lots of leads related to this," he said. "Lots and lots of theories that are related to this." Stith said investigations into mass shootings require a methodical, deliberate and careful approach. He asked again for community members to come forward with information particularly with help identifying a man captured on video at the park holding a gun. The Major Crimes Homicide Unit is looking for help in identifying the below individual who was at the scene of the double murder at Maplewood Pk. on 7/28/24 at 6:20 pm and armed with a handgun. If you know his name, call MCU at 428-7157 or email MajorCrimes@cityofrochester.gov. pic.twitter.com/JyCumJGuK7 Rochester NY Police (@RochesterNYPD) July 31, 2024 The man is not considered a suspect at this point, but police want to speak with him. "Something you know might seem like a minor detail to you, but to our investigators it's one more piece of the puzzle and that can make a critical difference," Stith said. He called the shooters cowards. "They don't deserve your silence," he said. There are several ways to provide information and anonymous tips are accepted. You can contact RPD's Major Crimes Unit at 585-428-7157 or MajorCrimes@cityofrochester.gov, call CrimeStoppers at 585-423-9300, or call 911 or 311. Kayla Canne covers community safety for the Democrat and Chronicle, with a focus on police accountability, government surveillance and how individuals are impacted by violence. Follow her on Twitter @kaylacanne and @bykaylacanne on Instagram. Get in touch at kcanne@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Investigation into Maplewood Park mass shooting in Rochester continues The new migrant centres are part of a bilateral deal to house people intercepted on boats in the Mediterranean Sea - ADNAN BECI/AFP Italian prison guards due to start work at migrant centres in Albania have been warned to avoid flirting with local women. Forty-five male guards have so far been selected to staff a new base for migrants in Gjader, one of two facilities due to open soon in northern Albania. The centres are part of a controversial bilateral deal to house people intercepted on boats in the Mediterranean Sea. During their training course, the Italian officers were given a manual with 14 guidelines advising them on behaviours such as how they should dress, eat and where to drink coffee. But a more explicit warning relating to the opposite sex has provoked a political outcry and reignited debate about the value of the entire offshore migrant scheme. The migrant facilities are expected to cost up to 688 million - Vlasov Sulaj/AP Avoid courting Albanian women in various settings or in an extemporaneous manner, the manual said. This is a more conservative society, especially in the north of the country. A man who knows or sees his woman being pursued by another man may react badly. The guidelines also stressed that Albanians are a modest people so nudity or less conservative clothing is not welcome. The warnings were criticised as surreal by the prison guards union while government opponents said they demonstrated the farcical nature of this particular migrant scheme. We thought it was fake news, but then we learned that the manual was actually drafted and distributed, said Gennarino De Fazio, the secretary-general of the prison guards union. Plans for the migrant centres in northern Albania were announced by Giorgia Meloni, the Italian prime minister, last year - ADNAN BECI/AFP We do not believe it was deliberately sexist, intolerant or anti-ethnic. It is probably the work of some overzealous official, but what is surprising is that this could be handled extemporaneously and without prior vetting by top management. Plans for the proposed migrant centres in northern Albania were announced by Giorgia Meloni, the Italian prime minister, in November last year. Working with Edi Rama, her Albanian counterpart, she promised to have the centres running by May but they are still not yet operational. Matteo Renzi, a former prime minister who heads the Italia Viva party, described the manual as the umpteenth international gaffe in relation to the migrant centres. More than a tragedy, this operation is becoming a comedy, but nobody is laughing, he said. Cultural racism Filiberto Zaratti, an MP from the Green Europe party, accused the government of cultural racism. The officers are asked not to pursue women because the Albanians are conservative and not to run around naked because they are modest, he said. They couldnt make it any worse. The Albanian migrant centres are central to Ms Melonis pledge to reduce the boats arriving in Italy from north Africa. More than 156,000 migrants reached Italy by sea last year, compared with 105,000 in 2022. Arrivals have continued to fall from north Africa, and in particular Tunisia, this year. Like the British governments proposal to send migrants to Rwanda, Italys plan was subject to a legal challenge from Albanias constitutional court which eventually approved it. More than 156,000 migrants reached Italy by sea last year - ADNAN BECI/AFP Under the Italian plan, the migrant facilities are expected to cost up to 688 million and will accommodate up to 3,000 migrants each month. The centres will house migrants picked up in international waters - excluding women, children or those considered vulnerable. People who have their asylum applications approved are expected to be flown to Italy, while rejected migrants will be sent back to their home countries. Despite construction being hampered by delays, the first centre - in Gjader - expected to be operational from Aug 20. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. On Saturday, Donald Trump had revenge on his mind. As he prepared to campaign in Atlanta, the former president attacked several Georgia Republicans who helped thwart his efforts to steal the 2020 election, including the states governor, former lieutenant governor, and secretary of state. We have to purge the Party of people that go against our Candidates, and make it harder for a popular Republican President to beat the Radical Left Lunatics, he wrote on social media with his characteristic odd capitalization. It was an alarming and familiar post. For nearly a decade now, Trump has railed against his enemies, critics, and opponents within the GOP, arguably going after them as much as Democrats. His targets on Saturday were particularly notable because the purge he was advocating wasnt just of Republicans he had deemed anti-Trumpers or RINOsit was explicitly Republicans who did not back his lies about the 2020 election. But what ultimately stood out about his posts on Saturday is how far Trump has come from his first presidential campaign and presidency, during which many members of the partys establishment, including former presidential candidates and sitting congressmen, opposed and occasionally even thwarted him. Trump doesnt really have very many enemies left in the Republican Partyhis takeover of the GOP is more or less complete. That assimilation was destructive andwith the possibility of his winning in Novemberscary. If he returns to office, he will face far fewer obstacles than at any point during his first presidency. The Supreme Court has shown open deference to him. He and his allies plan to remake the entire federal bureaucracy in their twisted image. Four more years of Donald Trump would be cataclysmic to our political system. At the same time, younger Republicans look more like Trump: They are more outwardly xenophobic and cruel; they embrace conspiracy theories like the great replacement; they increasingly depict liberals, people of color, childless people, and others as enemies who also must be purged. But that is the silver lining to Trumps Republican Party conversion. Voters really, really do not like the Trumpist candidates with whom he has replaced the purged moderates and anti-Trumpers. The young Republicans who have risen up via his coattails and playbookmost notably J.D. Vance, but also Marjorie Taylor Greene, Matt Gaetz, Lauren Boebert, Blake Masters, and otherscertainly constitute a movement but one with decidedly limited appeal. Each represents a different mix of Trumpist qualities and those of the quasi-populist New Right. They are, as it stands, the future of the Republican Party. Vance, Trumps running mate, is the most prominent. He first gained attention as a Trump critic, suggesting that the demagogic politician was promising easy fixes to systemic problems (and that if poor white people really wanted their lives to be better they should just work harder). But Vance changed his tune when it became clear that Trump was here to stay, offering a mix of election denying, conspiracy theorizing, race-baiting, and misogyny that drew Trumps backing for an Ohio Senate seat in 2022, which he won. But Vance is also the best evidence for the limits of the Trumpist approach. Voters have responded to his selection by recoiling, largely. Donald Trump has never been wildly popular, but he has consistently posted a favorability rating in the low 40sVance has been mired in the mid-30s since rising to national prominence, something unheard of from previous vice presidential selections. Gaetz, Boebert, and Greene will all undoubtedly have long careers in Republican politicsbut they are seen as clowns (albeit sinister ones) outside of it. Masters, meanwhile, has followed a different path. He has close links to the online right that has emerged since Trump rose to power and has molded himself in the image of right-wing bloggers and theorists, as well as libertarian Silicon Valley tycoons, particularly his mentor Peter Thiel. Voters hate Masters; he lost a winnable Senate seat in Arizona in 2022 and recently lost in a Republican congressional primary in the same state. Part of the problem is that Trumpism is a vibe as much as an ideology. It has core components, yes, largely related to xenophobic campaigns to stop immigration. Beyond that, though, its fuzzy. There is a larger cultural pugilism, centered on stopping the left at all costs. But how exactly one does that or, for that matter, what issues one focuses on is ill-defined. Trumps own political career gives surprisingly few clear examples: Most of his feuds are driven by personal animus more than anything else. (Case in point: At Saturdays rally in Georgia, he targeted Bruce Springsteen, saying he only like[s] people who like [him].) Trumps followers have responded by attempting to fill that void with any number of boogeymen, particularly focusing on transgender people and sexuality more broadly; Vance has made anti-feminism a core message, arguing that women should leave the workplace and focus on raising families. These messages have not caught on. Indeed, the vagueness of Trumps cultural attacks have historically aided him in part because theyre incoherent and to some extent undefinable. Efforts to make them more coherentbeyond immigrationhave largely fizzled. To some extent Trump himself is responsible. An inveterate narcissist, he can tolerate no one sharing the spotlight with him. Vance was selected not because he was someone to whom he could pass the baton but because he is an arch-loyalist lapdog who wont actually ever threaten him. Still, its notable that no natural successor exists at all. Trumps adult male children, Eric and Don Jr., clearly crave the spotlight. But neither has shown any political aptitude beyond hard-core Trump admirersas evidenced by their reportedly pivotal role in Vances selection as vice president. The only conclusion to draw, nearly a decade into Trumps takeover of the Republican Party, is that Trumpism itself doesnt have legs. It is still largely dependent on its namesake. Its ideology will clearly be around for a long time, but there are few signs that it will remain potent without Trumps own weird charisma. In the long term, thats something to be hopeful foreven if Trump very much remains a threat right now. Donald Trump claims that Georgia District Attorney Fani Willis is treating Young Thug unfairly. During an appearance on Adin Ross live stream on Monday (Aug. 5), Ross asked Trump about Thug, who has been in court for two years after being arrested for RICO charges. The kick streamer expressed his desire to see the Atlanta rapper be free and treated fair, saying, So, um, I know Fani Willis treated you very unfairly. I have a friend whos currently being treated unfairly by her. Hes a rapper named Young Thug. The former President of the United States agreed with Ross assertion and doubled-down, referring to Thug as a patriot. I heard that, actually, Trump answered. So, Ive heard about him, and Ive heard hes being treated very unfairly by [DA Willis], and I would tell her shes gotta treat these patriots that are being allits terrible. Theyre going after themHes gotta be treated fairly. Elsewhere in the interview, Trump took some time to address President Biden pulling out of the 2024 presidential race, believing his exit was part of a coup executed by the Democratic Party. Donald Trump on Young Thugs current situation with Adin Ross Hes gotta be treated fairlypic.twitter.com/jCPiCJekg3 NFR Podcast (@nfr_podcast) August 5, 2024 He was not only pushed out, it was a coup, Trump added. I dont know if I was brilliant or he was horrible, maybe a combination of bothhes done tremendous damage to our country. I actually think hes smarter than [VP Kamala Harris], and I think hes a really not smart person. She was convenient, she was there. They have much better people. All the people were better than her. They wouldve run, but they didnt want to go through the roadblock that was her. [Harris] ultra-left, ultra-radical. I just see where 99 vicious terroristsher policies have destroyed California. San Francisco was the best city in the country, and now, frankly, its not even livable. Donald Trump calls out Kamala Harris for not doing interviews and says Kamala Harris is incapable of answering hard questions. (? Adin Live/Youtube) pic.twitter.com/4KduIB7Epa The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) August 5, 2024 Trump and DA Fani Willis have a bit of shared history together, if you couldnt tell. Willis previously launched a probe into the politician following the results of the 2020 election. On August 14, 2023, a grand jury assembled by District Attorney Willis moved to indict the former President on violations of 16 Georgia statutes, including his own set of RICO charges. CNN reported at the time that Trump was arrested and booked the following week at the Fulton County jail. He was released 20 minutes afterward and called out Willis for creating a sad day in America. I thought the election was a rigged election, a stolen election. What has taken place here was a travesty of justice. What theyre doing is election interference. Theres never been anything like it in our country beforeWe did nothing wrong at all. We have every right, every single right, to challenge an election we think is dishonest. JUST IN: ?? President Trump makes first statement after being arrested in Georgia. pic.twitter.com/5p64eEs9jy Remarks (@Remarks) August 25, 2023 Watch the interview above. More from VIBE.com Dothan mayor to speak at World Conference of Mayor during Alabama visit DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) Dothan Mayor Mark Saliba will represent his hometown and state at two nationally recognized municipal events. The City of Dothan announced Mayor Saliba would host the 124th National Black Business Conference (NBBC) and The World Conference of Mayors (WCM)s 40th Anniversary Breakfast Meeting in Tuskeegee on August 21. Mayor Salia is the President of the Alabama League of Municipalities (ALM). This three-day event will focus on the training and professional development of mayors and other city officials. Following the breakfast, the group will take a historical tour of Tuskegee sites, including the tomb of Dr. Booker T. Washington and the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Park Site at historic Moton Field Airport. Besides Mayor Saliba, the President of Tuskegee University, Dr. Mark Brown, will speak at the breakfast. When the conference returns to Atlanta, Honorable Joseph Nyumah Boakai, President of Liberia, will be the keynote speaker. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has condemned his Democratic opponent for her laugh, which he told a Fox News interviewer is "a laugh of a crazy person." (Getty Images) In the hours after Vice President Kamala Harris became the de facto Democratic nominee for president and Gov. Andy Beshear was lauded as a potential pick for vice president, I received a text message about Beshear from a MAGA man in my family: Maybe he can control her. Words I do not recall hearing, in my lifetime, about any male candidate for president. When asked about a potential Harris-Beshear ticket, state Sen. Damon Thayer, the Kentucky Senates floor leader, told Isaiah Kim-Martinez of WHAS11, I dont know if Kamala Harris is dumb enough to pick Andy Beshear, but maybe she is. Harris graduated from college and law school; served as a prosecutor; was elected attorney general in one of the most populous states; was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2017; and was chosen as the vice presidential nominee in 2020, a role in which she has honorably served for three and a half years. A hardworking, accomplished woman reduced, in the parlance of Thayer, to dumb. In former President Donald Trumps Republican Party (and it is his party now) childishness and cruelty and pettiness reign, the primary focus long ago shifted from policy to ad hominem name-calling, and womens accomplishments are relegated to irrelevance. And then there is her laugh. In a sit-down interview with Laura Ingraham on FOX News, the GOP presidential nominee said about Harris, Shes crazy. That laugh, thats a laugh of a crazy person. Ingraham tried to help him out by cutting him off and saying, I like laughter, but Trump wasnt budging. Not her laughter, he said. This, on the tails of a laughable Republican Party convention lacking in gravitas and in which Hulk Hogan and Kid Rock were headliners and none of the conservative, standard bearers with names like Cheney, Bush or Romney played the smallest part while Mitch McConnell was booed. As Heath Mayo, Christian conservative and founder of Principles First, wrote about todays GOP, The breathless outrage at the folks in drag from the same people who just last week eagerly cheered a porn star, a man who hit his wife in the face, and an adjudicated rapist who cheated on his wife with a stripper is quite something. Selective morality is not morality. The Republican Party is no longer the party of family values or even a political party. That ship done sailed. Todays Republican Party is a steaming, smoldering cult of one personality, of a man found guilty of fraudulently paying a porn star to help his 2016 political campaign, who consistently calls women nasty and crazy or worse, was recently held liable in a court of law for sexual abuse, and laughs off his own old jokes about grabbing women by the p***y. As my Grandma Ann would say with an eye roll, hes a real knee-slapper, that one. When Martha Raddatz at ABCs This Week asked New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu about Trumps rally comments indicating that Christians would no longer need to worry about voting four years from now, he chuckled yes, chuckled and said, I think thats a classic Trumpism. On CBSs Face the Nation, Sen. Lindsay Graham was giggling yes, giggling before host Robert Costa could even ask about the voting remark. Grahams giggling continued as Costa asked a serious question about the right to vote, so much so that Costa said, Youre laughing, what do you believe hes trying to say? And not to be outdone, Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., told Neil Cavuto on FOX News that Harris needs to prove to the American people that shes a serious person. Margaret Thatcher didnt giggle. Golda Meir didnt giggle. Many Americans think that the vice president is a little bit of a ding dong. Cavuto tried multiple times to direct Kennedy to talk about policy, saying, Doesnt it look petty to judge her on this level? but Kennedy, like his cult leader, dug in, doubling down on shes a bit of a ding dong. Funny, I havent heard any GOP complaints about their powerful, supposedly serious, elected men laughing or making comments about ding dongs or calling the vice president dumb. I wonder why. I also havent heard anyone, including my Trump-voting family member, call for Trumps VP choice to control him. Its a real mystery. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Dozens of marine mammals, including sea lions, dolphins and fur seals, have been found sick and disoriented in California the past month, according to local officials. Responders with the Marine Mammal Center office in San Luis Obispo County have responded to approximately 90 sub-adult to adult California sea lions, three common dolphins and four northern fur seals "exhibiting symptoms consistent with domoic acid poisoning," since July 19, the center said in a statement Monday. The symptoms include disorientation, lethargy and abnormal neurologic activity, such as twitching and seizures, the center said. While cases were initially limited to the southern part of the county, especially in the Oceano Dunes and Pismo Beach areas in the first week of outbreak, but they have since then been reported in the north as well, including Morro Bay, Cayucos and Cambria. "The intensity is currently at peak and its currently unknown how long the situation will last," the center said, adding their teams have "been actively coordinating responses" with California State Parks, especially in the Oceano area. Organizations in the West Coast Marine Mammal Stranding Network have been "getting upwards of 100 calls a day about sea lions that are appearing dazed and confused on the beach, and in some cases experiencing seizures and death," Michael Milstein, Senior Public Affairs Officer at National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, also called NOAA, told USA TODAY Monday. Milstein said the organizations reported they are seeing affected animals mostly in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties, "with some new indications that it is spreading south." Why are sea lions and other marine animals getting sick in California? High summer temperatures and an offshore marine heatwave in the Pacific that moved in close to the coast in July, followed by a cold anomaly may have prompted algal growth which produces a neurotoxin pseudo-nitzschia australis, which accumulates in prey species such as small fish, like sardines and anchovies, the Marine Mammal Center said. These are then eaten by sea lions in large quantities causing them to get sick. California sea lions getting treated for domoic acid at The Marine Mammal Center. The center has admitted more than 70 sea lions in San Luis Obispo County with suspected domoic acid poisoning since July 19. Milstein explained the warming of coastal waters, followed by "a strong upwelling of deep, cold ocean water" kicked off the rapid growth of the algae. "Sometimes these harmful algal blooms are tied to warm waters but in this case, the driver is strong upwelling of deep, cold waters, drawn to the surface by winds," Milstein said. "These waters are rich in nutrients, so they feed the algae." A similar event occurred last year as well, the center said, adding the "large bloom event in southern California last year largely did not impact the central or northern California coast in terms of sick marine life but heavily impacted fellow West Coast Marine Mammal Stranding Network partners in southern California." Hundreds of sick and dead sea lions and dolphins had washed up along Southern California beaches in the first few weeks of June last year, according to a statement by the NOAA Fisheries. High concentrations of domoic acid along Orange County and San Luis Obispo County was found, according to NOAA Fisheries, with the algae especially concentrated in the Santa Barbara Channel off the coast of Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. Cases have previously surged past 200 in 2009, 2014 and 2015, "during large scale blooms that were also tied with El Nino patterns and warm water conditions off the Pacific West Coast," the center said. June 2023: Toxic algae bloom suspected in deaths of sea lions and dolphins on Southern California coast Animal care volunteers Jennifer Weller (L) and Sally Campbell (R) at The Marine Mammal Centers hospital and visitor center in Sausalito, California, help administer bagged fluids to a California sea lion in treatment for domoic acid poisoning on July 26, 2024. What happens in domoic acid poisoning? Domoic acid attacks the brain and the heart causing seizures and heart failure and even permanant brain damage if left untreated. While the toxin will naturally flush from an animal's system over time, sea lions and other marine mammals repeatedly exposed to the toxin will suffer longer-lasting and more serious effects, the center said. "If these animals come into our care before significant damage occurs, we are often able to help flush the toxin from their systems by giving them fluids," the center said. The Marine Mammal Center is also the worlds largest marine mammal hospital and responds to an average of 60-80 sick sea lions per year. The impacted sea lions are also fed domoic acid-free fish and are given anti-seizure medications used in humans, if they exhibit similar symptoms. The first case of domoic acid poisoning in marine mammals was diagnosed in 1998 and since then the center's veterinary team has been investigating new ways and therapies to reduce the amount of inflammation and damage the brain experiences while the animal is recovering. Does domoic acid affect humans? Domoic acid can also affect humans who eat contaminated crab, shellfish and fish, the center said, explaining that consumption can cause a life-threatening condition known as amnesiac shellfish poisoning. Since sea lions are often the first to be affected by a toxic algal bloom, the Marine Mammal Center said it provides public health department with information and data that can help determine if there is any threat to humans. The California Department of Public Health, in an advisory on their website, has warned against eating sport-harvested mussels, clams, or scallops from Monterey, Santa Cruz, Marin, Sonoma, Humboldt or Del Norte counties due to dangerous levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning toxin. The San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department addressed concerns surrounding the sick marine mammals Friday, informing the public that the ocean is currently safe for swimming and surfing. The department said the illness does not spread from animal to animal (including pets) or by swimming in the ocean. Public advised to stay away from marine mammals Experts at the Marine Mammal Center have urged the public to maintain distance from sea lions, whether they are impacted or not by the poisoning, due to their unpredictable nature and to avoid stressing out the animal, and to keep their pets away from them. Beachgoers and members of the public in San Luis Obispo County are also requested to report sick or injured marine mammals to the Centers hotline at 415-289-SEAL (7325) so that trained responders can make an informed evaluation. Beachgoers in Santa Barbara County can contact the Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute at (805) 567-1505 to report a marine mammal in distress. Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at sshafiq@gannett.com and follow her on X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Sea lions, marine life sick with domoic acid poisoning in California Thai drag queen Srimala shows off her final look before performing at an LGBTQ bar. Organizers of the drag queen PAC said it is important to raise money to support candidates whose ideals and motives align with the PACs mission. (Matt Hunt/Getty Images) A new political action committee is stomping the runway, bringing together some of the biggest names in drag to push back against anti-LGBTQ legislation and politicians. Through a flurry of social media posts on platforms like Instagram, TikTok and X, the PAC has begun a campaign to raise funds ahead of the November election. Aptly named Drag PAC, the committee was officially formed in March 2024 Federal Election Commission filings show. As a hybrid PAC, the committee can make limited donations to politicians from one account but raise and spend unlimited money to make independent expenditures from another. In a YouTube video announcing the launch of the committee, RuPauls Drag Race alumni Peppermint, Monet Exchange, Alaska, BenDeLaCreme and Willam explain that they connected to form the first and only PAC led by drag queens. I think everyone is a little disheartened with a lot of our elected leadership, said RuPauls Drag Race season 5 and All Stars Season 7 winner Jinkx Monsoon in the video. And frankly our community is being assaulted and its escalating to violence. RuPauls Drag Race season 9 alum Peppermint told OpenSecrets that she was initially approached by rapper and podcaster Dan Stermer, professionally known as Big Dipper, to start the PAC. Because Big Dipper was familiar with Peppermints involvement in social issues and activism including the Black Queer Town Hall, the performer said she wasnt surprised that she was approached to join. Peppermint said that it is important to raise money to support candidates whose ideals and motives align with the PACs mission. She added that candidates who dont support LGBTQ issues or who actively work against the interests of queer individuals are sometimes supported by large donors. Candidates that we would want to support us, people that we would go out and vote for, are being defeated at the polls by candidates that have so much backing, millions of dollars, Peppermint said. What we want to do is support candidates, sort of pick that same model and support candidates who are willing to speak up on behalf of the LGBTQ community. July 2024 FEC filings show that the PAC has raised more than $140,000 so far, with long-time Democratic donor Dylan Bulkeley-Krane contributing $60,000 since March. Bulkeley-Krane is one of the committees organizers and is also the co-founder of Disability Action of America. Bulkeley-Krane told OpenSecrets that he donated the initial start-up funds to the PAC so that the committee could get off the ground. Since then weve received hundreds and hundreds of small dollar donations and a few big donations as well, Bulkeley-Krane said. Much of our staff, including the Queens, volunteer our time for the PAC, so all of the money we raise go towards our GOTV efforts, filming content, hosting events and building our tech tools. Rainbow waves While committees that have historically supported LGBTQ issues are not new the LGBTQ Victory Fund has raised more than $1.8 million during the 2024 cycle and contributed just over $129,000 to Democratic candidates Drag PAC appears to be the only federal political committee openly led by drag performers.Podcsater and RuPauls Drag Race season 4 alum Willam said that part of what makes Drag PAC unique is the commitment to boosting candidates and politicians who are actively supporting queer issues. We havent endorsed anybody but our focus is on voter outreach and we will be highlighting down ballot candidates who are fighting for our communities in the future, Willam said, adding that they personally support candidates who are visibly working to support the community, citing examples including Honey Mahogany of San Francisco and Maebe A. Girl of Los Angeles. Mahogany, another Drag Race alum, ran for supervisor of District 6 in San Francisco but was defeated by Matt Dorsey. The social worker and activist previously served as a member of the San Francisco DCCC and was later elected chair. Girl was the first ever drag queen elected to public office after winning a seat on the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council. She would go on to run unsuccessfully against Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) for Californias 28th congressional seat in 2019 and again in 2021. After Schiff announced his retirement to run for Californias Senate seat, Girl said she would run to replace him in 2024 but lost the primary. To get candidates like Mahogany and Girl elected, there needs to be a high level of engagement from younger generations, Peppermint said, adding that educating people about who the candidates are and what they represent is part of the plan. Its important for people to understand what types of people are getting ready to run for office, Peppermint said. Its important to understand what the support of those people looks like and understand how those people move through the world of politics and through the ranks. How people, how we as individuals, can support those people. Peppermint said educating younger voters, particularly Gen Z, is a focal point of Drag PAC and noted that younger people tend to be more progressive but dont always show up to vote. According to the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement at Tufts College, 41 million members of Gen Z will be eligible to participate in the 2024 presidential election, eight million of whom will be new voters. It is these voters who Drag PAC is trying to engage through voter registration and social media presence. But to do that, the PAC needs monetary support. I want to be able to affect change and make sure the right people get elected, Willam said. So Ill go wherever theres a party that theres campaigns and I need to schmooze some people and get them to get their checkbooks and Venmos out because drag queens are good at what? Getting money. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX VIENTIANE, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The first group of Lao train drivers to work independently on the China-Laos Railway have been formally awarded driver certificates after receiving qualification trainings. Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Saleumxay Kommasith, Lao Deputy Minister of Public Works and Transport Saysongkham Manodham, General Manager of the Laos-China Railway Co., Ltd. (LCRC) Liu Hong, attended the certificate awarding ceremony held here on Monday. On behalf of the Lao Ministry of Public Works and Transport, Saysongkham presented the licenses to the 14 people. Speaking at the ceremony, Saysongkham said this was a major event in the history of Laos' transportation development. He hopes that these train drivers will always keep safety first, ensure that passenger and freight trains arrive at their destinations safely and on time, contributing to the development of Laos' railway industry. Also speaking at the event, Liu said, "In the next step, we will make full use of the teaching resources including from Chinese railway colleges and the Lao railway vocational technical college to build a Lao railway talent team, promoting the high-quality and reliable development of the China-Laos Railway." The LCRC recruited the first batch of Lao train driver trainees in June 2020. After theoretical study and training courses, 66 Lao assistant drivers were selected in June 2022. By the end of 2023, the company had selected 14 co-drivers with a driving mileage of more than 100,000 kilometers. After eight months of further trainings, they all passed relevant qualification examinations to become the first Lao train drivers to perform duty independently on the China-Laos Railway. Police searching for driver who hit woman walking to second job at Walmart Police have issued arrest warrants for a driver they say caused a crash that killed a woman in Cobb County last month as she walked to her second job. Brandon Earl, a 38-year-old from Tennessee, is accused of reaching for his phone and driving with a suspended license during the July 16 crash. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Police said Earl was driving a GMC Sierra on Hicks Road when he crossed over the center line and crashed into a GMC Yukon causing that SUV to flip. Earl continued south in the northbound lane and crashed into a Ford Escape and sent that car into a guardrail. Police said the driver, identified as Debbie Bates, died at the scene. The drivers of the other two cars police say Earl hit were taken to the hospital. Investigators determined that Earl was distracted when he reached for his phone. Police issued warrants on the following charges: Homicide by Vehicle in the 2nd Degree, Failure to Maintain Lane, Driver to Exercise Due Care, and Driving While License Suspended/Revoked. As of Tuesday, he is not in police custody. TRENDING STORIES: Channel 2s Cobb County Bureau Chief Michele Newell spoke to Bates friend, Davien Harlis, who said that now, he gets no more text messages and has no more visits, all because of distracted driving. Such a careless act and so tragically, Harlis said. We dont get her back. Harlis worked with Bates at Walmart years ago but they remained in good friends. Harlis said sometimes, Bates was a big sister to him. Other times, she was like his mother. She probably was one of the most kind people I think Ive ever met, Harlis said. She was funny. She was fun. She was hard-working. There is now a memorial for Bates on full display inside the Austell Walmart. She worked in the garden center. She worked in the cash office, Harlis said. She worked wherever they put her. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA) One person is hurt after a crash on Interstate 57 Tuesday morning. Illinois State Police arrived at the scene near milepost 224, between Pesotum and Tolono, just before 11:20 a.m. The crash involved two vehicles. Almost 50 drivers cited for speeding in July: Champaign PD Though no details were shared on how the crash happened, police said one driver was hurt and transported to the hospital. Officials said no further information is available at this time. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. For the first time ever, this fall semester Dukes Trinity College of Arts & Sciences will offer an Indigenous United States language Cherokee. The new course recognizes the intertwined history of Duke University and American Indian education. From 1882 to 1887, Trinity College, then in Randolph County, ran the federally funded Cherokee Industrial Indian Boarding School, enrolling 20 children of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. The boarding school was closed in 1887, and Trinity moved to Durham a few years later. Trinity became Duke University in 1924 with the Duke family endowment. In recent years, investigative efforts have brought increased attention to the brutal history of Indian boarding schools in the United States and the Americas. These institutions, often led by churches, removed children from their homes in violent attempts to assimilate them into the dominant culture disrupting kinship networks and facilitating multiple forms of abuse in the process. Criticized as cultural genocide, boarding schools discouraged and punished American Indian children for speaking their languages precipitating a major decline in first-language speakers of Indigenous languages in the United States. Trinity College started as a religious institute and federal boarding school that specifically had the policy of eliminating Indigenous languages and Indigenous culture in this case, those of the Cherokee people, said Courtney Lewis, Crandall Family Associate Professorship Chair in the Department of Cultural Anthropology, enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation, and inaugural director of Dukes Native American Studies Initiative (NASI). There is a moral and ethical component of teaching and bringing this language back to Duke. Students can enroll in Cherokee 1 beginning this fall, and Cherokee 2 in spring, 2025. In addition to these introductory courses, intermediate courses will begin during the 20252026 academic year. This means that students in Dukes Trinity College of Arts & Sciences will be able to satisfy their foreign language requirement with Cherokee. Broadly speaking, Lewis said, Indigenous languages in the United States are critically endangered. For this reason, offering language courses is one key goal of the Native American Studies Initiative, which officially launched in July 2023. For me, it was not a question of whether we were going to start a language course, but rather how fast I could get a language course started at Duke, Lewis said. With support from the Office of Global Affairs, the Department of Cultural Anthropology, and the Partnership for Less Commonly Taught Languages, she was able to get that course on the books. While Cherokee 1 is an online course a necessity for many less commonly taught languages students will have the opportunity to meet with the instructor, Gil Jackson, in person a couple of times on campus and during a field trip to Cherokee. Jackson lives in nearby Snowbird. (The class is) something Im so excited about, said Naomi Goldson T27, a member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina and the publicity chair for Dukes Native American/Indigenous Student Alliance (NAISA). Goldson sees a link between the creation of the course and years of NAISAs activism to promote the visibility of Native cultures at Duke. This is an acknowledgement that there are Native people here, this isn't a dead language, and this isn't a dead culture, Goldson said. Lewis said that the courses instructor, Jackson, grew up as a first-language speaker learning dialects spoken by the Cherokee Nation in Oklahoma and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians of western North Carolina. He is able to teach a wider range of the Cherokee language, which is really useful to our students since we have both Eastern Band and Cherokee, Lewis said. Lewis said that this course is also an opportunity for non-Cherokee and non-Indigenous students to enrich their understanding of the world by learning about life experiences different from their own. When you're studying the Cherokee language, you're learning philosophy, science, and cultural practices, she said, calling this variety of knowledge the very heart of what a liberal studies education is. It's about exposing ourselves to new ways of thinking across a broad spectrum of subject areas. Goldson says that the creation of this course also means that Native students dont have to shoulder the burden of educating others about Native cultures alone. It is so important that allies or people who don't understand Native culture do that work themselves, she said. So that's the first step learning and educating yourself about the culture and I think that this class is a great way to do that. Lewis remembers that the teacher who taught her Cherokee thought that the world might be a better place if everyone spoke it. Anyone who learns Cherokee, she says, is helping to reclaim a language that was violently repressed. This reclaiming will send reverberations across generations, Lewis said. And that's something that very few other language classes can do. About the Author: "Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net." Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net The U.S. Navy supercarrier USS Abraham Lincoln is heading toward the Middle East with an air wing that includes EA-18G Growlers equipped with new AN/ALQ-249(V)1 Next Generation Jammer-Mid Band (NGJ-MB) electronic warfare pods. The U.S. Navy supercarrier USS Abraham Lincoln is heading toward the Middle East with an air wing that includes EA-18G Growlers equipped with new AN/ALQ-249(V)1 Next Generation Jammer-Mid Band (NGJ-MB) electronic warfare pods. The pods, which appear to be on their first cruise, give the EA-18Gs a massive leap in improved jamming and electronic attack capabilities. The Growlers with the NGJ-MB could see combat on their first major deployment as they could be valuable for supporting the U.S. response to any potential forthcoming Iranian retaliatory attacks aimed at Israel, as well as other U.S. or friendly interests in the region. If any escalation followed, including a more direct confrontation between the U.S. and Iran or even a scenario in which the U.S. supports Israeli operations with non-kinetic capabilities, the AN/ALQ-249 would be one of Americas most powerful weapons against Iranian air defenses. A VAQ-133 Growler assigned to the USS Abraham Lincoln with AN/ALQ-249(V)1 Next Generation Jammer-Mid Band (NGJ-MB) pods under its wings. USN The Pentagon announced last Friday that it was sending Abraham Lincoln and the rest of its strike group, which is currently in the Western Pacific, further west. The purpose of the redeployment is ostensibly to relieve the USS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group, which was last reported to be in or around the Gulf of Oman, and ensure a carrier presence in the Middle East. However, this comes amid a rush to bolster the U.S. militarys force posture across the region in advance of expected retaliation from Iran and its proxies against Israel, and potentially its allies and partners, for the assassination of the top political leader of the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, in Tehran last week. The air wing on Abraham Lincoln, which first headed out on its planned Pacific deployment in July, includes EA-18Gs assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron 133 (VAQ-133), the Wizards. The flattop is also carrying a mix of F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighters, E-2D Hawkeye airborne early warning and control aircraft, C-2 Greyhound carrier onboard delivery planes, and MH-60R/S Seahawk helicopters from various Navy units. A squadron of U.S. Marine Corps F-35C Joint Strike Fighters is embarked on the carrier, as well. The pairing of the Growlers new jamming pod and the F-35C is especially potent when it comes to being able to penetrate advanced air defense networks. How many AN/ALQ-249(V)1 pods are aboard Abraham Lincoln is unknown. At least three different VAQ-133 EA-18Gs have been seen on the carrier carrying a pair of the NGJ-MB pods since the strike group started working up to its deployment earlier in the year and after the flattop set out on its latest cruise. Growlers belonging to the Wizards have also been seen with the older AN/ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System (TJS) pods that the NGJ-MB is, in part, set to replace. A VAQ-133 Growler with AN/ALQ-99 pods on the deck of the USS Abraham Lincoln on July 21, 2024. USN Navy officials told members of the House Armed Services Committee in April that three low-rate initial production (LRIP) shipsets, each comprising two AN/ALQ-249(V)1 pods, had been delivered by the end of 2023 and that a second tranche of LRIP pods began arriving at the beginning of this year. The goal at that time was to declare initial operational capability with the NGJ-MB and deploy it before the end of this current fiscal year, which ends on September 30. The NGJ-MB program has suffered a number of developmental difficulties and delays since the late 2010s, as you can read more about here. The War Zone has reached out to the Navy for more information. Details about the AN/ALQ-249(V)1 pods capabilities are limited, but manufacturer Raytheon describes it as an advanced electronic attack system that denies, disrupts and degrades enemy technology, including communication tools and air-defense systems, on its website. Its capabilities include operating at significantly enhanced ranges and attacking multiple targets simultaneously. The section on the NGJ-MB in the most recent annual report from the Pentagons Office of the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation says it is designed to improve EA-18G capabilities against modern, advanced RF [radiofrequency] threats, communications, datalinks, and non-traditional RF targets. The pods will offer the Navy a new way to deny, degrade, or deceive the enemys use of the electromagnetic spectrum by employing both reactive and preemptive jamming techniques while enhancing the friendly forces use of the electromagnetic spectrum, that report adds. Raytheon The NGJ-MBs use of active electronically scanned array (AESA) antennas, something not found on older AN/ALQ-99s, as well as its modular open architecture design could open the door to a variety of new and improved capabilities. This is something The War Zone has highlighted in the past, writing in a feature on the entire NGJ program: These additional capabilities could include giving the system a means to launch remote cyber attacks on hostile air defense networks, spoof the signature of the Growler or other friendly aircraft, conduct more advanced signals intelligence missions, or even destroy enemy emitters with a high-powered burst of microwave energy. AESA arrays also have a latent, but downright incredible communications capability that is just now being more deeply explored by the services. An exploded view of the components inside Raytheons NGJ-MB pod, including the AESA arrays at the front and the back. USN It is important to note that as its name indicates, the NGJ-MB pods are only designed to work in certain frequency bands. L3 and Northrop Grumman have been developing an entirely separate NGJ-Low Band (NGJ-LB) pod to complement the mid-band ones. The Navy is also looking to give the NGJ-MB greater coverage in higher frequency bands, which is now set to lead to an NGJ-MB Extended (MBX) subvariant. The service has talked in the past about acquiring a dedicated high-band NGJ pod, as well. There are high and low-band versions of the existing AN/ALQ-99. An EA-18G with a prototype NGJ-LB pod on its centerline station under test in an anechoic chamber. USN The improvements the NGJ-MBs offer over the AN/ALQ-99s could by themselves still be very valuable to U.S. forces in the Middle East. In addition, since the U.S. Air Force retired the EF-111A in 1998, the U.S. Navy has been the only operator of dedicated fast-jet tactical electronic warfare capability within the U.S. military, and is therefore tasked with providing such support across the branches. During a major attack by Iran, Growlers could work to disrupt hostile communications and maybe even certain enemy weapon systems, possibly including drones in flight, with non-kinetic electronic warfare attacks. During past U.S. operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, it emerged that EA-18Gs, as well as the EA-6B Prowlers they replaced, had been using their electronic warfare suites to prevent militants from remotely detonating improvised explosive devices. The bottom line is that these new pods have capabilities we do not know anything about and the tactics behind their use are rapidly evolving. A VAQ-133 EA-18G with NGJ-MB pods lands on board the USS Abraham Lincoln. USN As already noted, the combination of the EA-18G and the NGJ-MB would be especially useful for helping to safeguard U.S. and other friendly forces, as well as standoff weapons, from Iranian air defenses in the event that a broader regional conflict erupts. Lincolns embarked stealthy F-35Cs, a type of aircraft not found on the USS Theodore Roosevelt currently in the Middle East, would play a key part in such a scenario, as well. Unsurprisingly, providing jamming support while directly escorting aircraft penetrating into hostile territory, as well as while operating from a stand-off distance, are key missions for the EA-18G, including with the new pods. A graphic giving a very general look at different jamming mission profiles, with the EA-18G seen here providing so-called modified escort jamming from outside the range of enemy ground-based air defenses. The NGJ-MB pods are capable of supporting other profiles, as well. GAO NAVAIR Navy EA-18Gs are also capable of launching kinetic attacks against targets on the ground using the AGM-88 family of missiles and in the air with AIM-120 missiles. The jets can now carry more AIM-120s during a single sortie than before thanks to a crash program in response to the ongoing crisis in and around the Red Sea. An EA-18G assigned to VAQ-130, the Zappers, executed the types first successful air-to-air engagement, downing what was likely a Houthi drone with an AIM-120, during a historic nine-month deployment with the USS Dwight D. Eisenhowers carrier strike group in the Red Sea and elsewhere around the Middle East that wrapped up in July. During that same cruise, another VAQ-130 Growler also destroyed an Mi-24/35-series attack helicopter on the ground in Yemen with an AGM-88E, which is capable of hitting time-sensitive, not radiating targets, earning it an unusual kill marking. Growlers equipped with AN/ALQ-249(V)1s are now headed toward the Middle East, where they can at least expect to fly sorties as part of ongoing operation against the Houthis in and around the Red Sea. We only hope the full capabilities of the pods are not needed for a larger confrontation with Iran. If they are, they represent the most advanced tactical airborne EW capability known to the public and would be a major threat to Iranian air defenses. Contact the author: joe@twz.com James and Michaela Smith took their boys, ages 6 and 8, to vote Tuesday at the East Sunshine Church of Christ. Each was holding the hand of a different son. They voted, between stops, while the temperature was still fairly cool. "Honestly, it's important for them to see us vote," said Michaela Smith. "It's a good opportunity to talk to them about the process and respecting the outcome." Whitney Williams fills out her ballot at the East Sunshine Church of Christ as her two-year-old son Hubert plays with an "I voted" sticker on her lap on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. The Missouri primary included a packed slate of candidates running for statewide offices, including the governor and U.S. Congress, as well as the Missouri legislature. Turnout in Greene County was expected to draw nearly one out of every three registered voters, although Greene County Clerk Shane Schoeller said absentee voting was lower than usual and hot afternoon temperatures might keep some from venturing out. By mid-afternoon, turnout stood at just 14%. Schoeller described the voting benchmark as "a little lighter than expected, though I sensed the warmer weather might have an impact." Steve and Ann Grace rarely miss an election and were determined to cast ballots in this primary. They pulled a Democratic ballot, in part to vote for Mike Hamra, one of two Democrats from Springfield who are running for governor. "He went to school with our daughter and we know his parents," Steve Grace said. The Parkview High School polling location on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Unlike the Republican primary races, where there was more competition, Ann Grace noted there "weren't too many choices" for Democrats to make further down the ballot. In recent years, most of Missouri's top offices have held by Republicans. "Voting for a Democrat on a statewide ballot is just a waste," Steve Grace said. DeDe Vest also acknowledged the choices were slim on the Democratic primary ticket, with most candidates not facing a challenger. Still, she was undeterred. "I just want to make sure as a rare Democrat, I vote in the primary," she said. At Glendale Christian Church, Nancy Lewis said she "votes all the time" and primarily for conservative candidates. "I'm basically a Republican but I will split the ticket," said Lewis, 88. "I like to see one party be governor and one party be lieutenant governor." Nancy Lewis fills out her ballot at the Glenstone Baptist Church polling location on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Even walking into the polling place, Lewis said she was struggling to finalize her vote though she hoped Republican Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe would win the Republican nomination to succeed Gov. Mike Parson. Kehoe is one of nine Republican candidates running for the state's highest office. He was a frontrunner along with Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and state Sen. Bill Eigel. On the Democratic side, Lewis hoped Hamra would beat out state Sen. Crystal Quade, the Democratic Minority Floor Leader, to face Kehoe in November. Lewis said she favored state Sen. Lincoln Hough to succeed Kehoe as the lieutenant governor. Shanti Cacace said she has long supported Quade and wants her on the November ballot. "I'm very interested in Crystal Quade. I've been following her for years," Cacace said. "She is down to earth. She is a Democrat." Shanti Cacace fills out her ballot at the East Sunshine Church of Christ polling location on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Cacace said the governor's race was her top priority in the primary. She also planned to cast a ballot for Lucas Kunce, who is running to defeat U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley. Kunce served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2007 to 2020. Hawley, first elected to the role in 2018, is running uncontested in the Republican primary. He recently described himself as a Christian nationalist during a conservative conference in July. Kunce ran for U.S. Senate two years ago but lost in the primary. He faces Karla May, December Harmon and Mita Biswas to be the Democratic Party nominee this year. "I like that he's military," Cacace said of Kunce. "He is also down-to-earth. I like that he's not a Christian nationalist." At Glenstone Christian Church, Amy Hughes said voting is a habit for her. "I just really care about being involved." Voters check in to receive their ballots at the Parkview High School polling location on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Hughes said despite typically voting Democratic, she pulled a Republican ballot in the primary so she could vote for Kehoe and Will Scharf who is running against Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey. Either Scharf or Bailey will be the Republican nominee and will face Elad Gross in November. More: Missouri polls open at 6 a.m. for the primary election. Here's a last-minute guide She left most of the rest of the ballot blank. "This year, for the first time, I voted Republican," she said of the primary. "I wanted to support some of the moderates." Gary Friedly went to vote at the Springfield Bible Church on Grand Street. He was carrying his voter identification card. "They issue this but you can't use it," he said, flashing his driver's license, which he also planned to show. The Voter ID laws passed in 2022 require voters to bring a non-expired photo ID issued by Missouri or the federal government, including a military ID or U.S. passport. The East Sunshine Church of Christ polling location on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Friedly, 82, said he planned to vote Democratic, a change he made a decade ago. He said he grew up Republican and voted that way most of his life. He said that party reliably had good choices in each election. "It has changed. It ain't the Republican Party I grew up with. That was decades ago," he said. "It is not the same mentality." This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri primary: Greene County voter turnout 'lighter than expected' LONDON, Ky. (FOX 56) A Laurel County man is facing charges after reportedly trying to break into several vehicles and a home. Arlo Harris, 62, was arrested on Saturday after the homeowner said he tried to break into her house, according to an arrest citation. Read more of the latest Kentucky news The Laurel County Sheriffs Department noted in the citation that Harris reportedly beat on the door and tried to pry open her window. He was also said to have tried to break into several vehicles and an outbuilding. Before being arrested, deputies said Harris was sitting in a chair on the front porch after being asked to leave multiple times by the homeowner. While being interviewed, deputies said Harris claimed he was asked to come over by the womans son, but the son said he had no idea who Harris was and he didnt invite Harris over. The woman told deputies that she was afraid for her safety if Harris made it into her home. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: He was booked into the Laurel County Correctional Center and charged with: Second-degree burglary (attempt) Menacing Third-degree criminal trespassing Harris is due to appear in court at 9:30 a.m. on Aug. 20. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. EAST LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Over the weekend, East Lansing was hit with a string of car break-ins and theft. According to the East Lansing Police Department, four cars have been stolen in the last week. I dont know what happened, but my car is gone, said Michigan State University student Bridget Henderson. Henderson lives at The Quarters apartment complex and says that on Sunday, she went to load up her car to drive home, but couldnt find it. The Quarters Apartments in East Lansing (WLNS) Im thinking the apartment complex accidentally towed it, said Henderson. Maybe they didnt see the parking pass. Henderson asked her roommate to help her look around the lots in case she forgot where she parked. With no luck, they checked the roommates car and noticed the door was unlocked even though it was locked the night before. She opens her car door, and the seats in her truck are all messed up, said Henderson. Her glove box is open, her insurance cards are scattered. It turns out, the girls werent alone. Henderson says when she filed her police report, police told her vehicle break-ins and theft have been common in the area recently. I asked him Has this been happening a lot? and he goes, Actually youre my fifth report today, said Henderson. The Quarters Apartments in East Lansing (WLNS) She says the officer also told her there were more reports from that very same parking lot. So far, theres no lead on who did it or how it happenedespecially because Hendersons car was locked and she even had the keys with her in her apartment. I was in complete and total shock. I still kind of am a little, she said. As a newer resident, Henderson says shes nervous about the future. Because I do have to go back at some point, you know, with a car, she continued. Im really hoping this wont happen to me or anyone else again. ELPD says these crimes are common this time of yearwhen many students are moving in and out of their homes. They urge people to lock their car doors and keep valuables out of sight. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. TYLER, Texas (KETK) The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) will host a Windows of Opportunity Regionwide Job Fair on Aug. 20 at their workforce centers. Courtesy of the East Texas Council of Governments The Workforce Solutions East Texas Team will host their quarterly regionwide job fair at its five centers with the aim to bridge the gap between hiring employers and individuals seeking a job across various occupation pathways to foster economic growth and career development. Chipmaker Intel to cut 15,000 jobs as tries to revive its business and compete with rivals The Tyler, Longview and Athens workforce centers will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. In Palestine and Marshall workforce center events will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information people can visit their website. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. Edenton man sentenced to more than eight years in prison on gun charge NEW BERN, N.C. (WNCT) An Edenton man was sentenced to more than eight years in prison for possession of a firearm by a felon. Karon Antwan McDonald pled guilty to the charge on Feb. 13, 2024. According to court documents showed McDonald was driving a vehicle in Plymouth when N.C. State Highway Patrol did a traffic stop. McDonald was removed from the vehicle and then struggled briefly with Troopers as he tried to run away. McDonald was tased and taken into custody. A search of the vehicle found a stolen Glock .357 handgun under the drivers seat. The gun was equipped with a machine gun conversion device, known as a Glock switch, making it capable of firing fully automatic. McDonald had previously been convicted of two assaults with deadly weapons with intent to kill. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. Participants mourn atomic bombing victims during a memorial ceremony on the 79th anniversary of atomic bombing in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) HIROSHIMA, Japan, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. At Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park where a memorial ceremony on the 79th anniversary of the bombing was held, protesters vented their anger over Japan-U.S. military alliance and called on Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to step down, while holding banners reading no war and no nuclear weapons. Ryo Miyahara, head of a Hiroshima citizens' group and the protest's organizer, told Xinhua that there was growing risk of nuclear war as Japan-U.S. military alliance was strengthening. Yasuhiro Ikanda said that his father told him about the devastating scene of the bombing, and it was a betrayal of bombing victims as the Japanese and U.S. governments were working on nuclear deterrence. The Japanese government uttered words of opposing nuclear weapons, but it indeed significantly increased defense spending, expanded arms production and export, and turned Okinawa into a military fortress, he said. Japan has not truly reflected on its aggressive war, and bombing victims continue to seek accountability of its war crime, Ikanda said. Japan brutally invaded and occupied many parts of Asia before and during World War II, inflicting untold suffering and heavy casualties on millions of innocent victims. The atomic bombing of Nagasaki followed the one dropped on Hiroshima, with both bombings a means of accelerating the end of World War II and forcing Japan to surrender. While Japan inwardly looks at the bombings it had experienced at the end of World War II, historians and political minds of the international community have encouraged Japan to come to see themselves not as merely victims of the atomic bombings but also as the perpetrators who led to these tragic incidents to happen in the first place. Protesters confront security personnel at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) Staff members put wooden chips bearing blessing messages into braziers in commemoration of atomic bombing victims at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 5, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) A choir performs during a memorial ceremony on the 79th anniversary of atomic bombing in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) People pay their tributes to atomic bombing victims at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) Participants strike the Bell of Peace during a memorial ceremony on the 79th anniversary of atomic bombing in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) People pay their tributes to atomic bombing victims at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) Protesters rally at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) Protesters rally at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) Protesters rally at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 5, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) People lay flowers in commemoration of atomic bombing victims at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) Protesters rally at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 5, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) A brazier filled with wooden chips bearing blessing messages floats on a river in commemoration of atomic bombing victims at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 5, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) A senior citizen pays his tribute to atomic bombing victims at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 2024. As Japan marked the anniversary of atomic bombing on the western city of Hiroshima on Tuesday, people from across the nation gathered to protest the government's accelerated arms build-up, urging it to stick to peace. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu) SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) Massachusetts Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler hosted a listening session for residents to share their concerns regarding early education and child care in Springfield on Monday. Still a potential path forward for economic development bond bill The event was part of the Healey-Driscoll Administrations Early Education and Child Care Task Forces Listening Sessions. The Task Force was founded by Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll as part of their Gateway to Pre-K. On January 16, the Governor called for the whole of state government to lean into, solving for many of the pressing challenges that we know exist in the early education and care sectors, explained Tutwiler. The initiative focuses on affordability, accessibility, and challenges like retention. Mondays session was the second to be held in western Massachusetts, following one in Pittsfield last week. Secretary Tutwiler said this isnt the first time the state is focusing on accessible child care, but going forward, they have five priorities of their Inter-Agency Task Force. The priorities cover: surveying the practices of other states, assessing better coordination to support families, identifying resources for building capacity and affordability, identifying strategies to recruit, and retain workers and reviewing existing assets for potential locations for center-based education and care. Two attendees who operate a private family child care business shared their struggle, We charge less money than them, and we feel that we provide a very good service, so its very tough for us. The Task Force will present their report on the listening sessions to the Governor by November. Latest Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) The groundbreaking for Edward Vacuums new $319 million semiconductor dry pump manufacturing facility in Genesee County took place Tuesday afternoon with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and state and local officials in attendance. Edwards Vacuum, a major Britain-based semiconductor supply chain manufacturer, chose the Western New York Science and Technology Advancement Manufacturing Park as the location for their new facility back in Nov. 2022. The facility, which will be the first of its kind in the United States, spans 240,000 square feet and includes manufacturing, warehouse and administration facilities with the ability to produce 10,000 dry pumps every year. Schumer said the new facility will create 600 new jobs, which includes local construction jobs. I urged Edwards Vacuum to expand in Western New York because I knew that it would be a win for Edwards Vacuum, a win for Western NYs economy, and a win for Americas semiconductor supply chain, and today that is becoming a reality, he said. Tuesdays groundbreaking was for the first $127 million phase of construction, which started in April. Operations are anticipated to begin in late 2025, Schumer said. Kent Stobbart, the vice president of operations for Edward Vacuums semiconductor division, said the facility will be world-leading and more sustainable than any of its predecessors. Im also proud that this facility will be entirely emission-free, fully electric, using no fossil fuels, and with most of our power coming from hydroelectric sources, Stobbart said. We estimate a saving of around 13,000 tons of CO2 a year. The new facility is also working with Monroe Community College, Erie Community College and the Northland Workforce Training Center to help hire and train hundreds of new workers, according to Schumer. Latest Local News Katie Skoog joined the News 4 team in April 2024. She is a graduate from the University at Buffalo. You can view more of her work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) On July 23, Rep. Cliff Bentz, who represents Oregons 2nd Congressional District, successfully added an amendment to an Interior Department appropriations bill for the 2025 fiscal year, which seeks to prohibit the creation of any national monuments in Malheur County. The amendment is the latest in an ongoing battle between local activists fighting for added protections for the Owyhee Canyonlands, and those defending neighboring cattle ranches and the areas rich potential for gold mining. Back in 2015, a small group of mostly urban activists funded by recreational sportswear companies tried to convince the Obama Administration that it should use the Antiquities Act to abruptly impose a national monument designation on 2.5 million acres of the 6.3 million acres making up Malheur County, Bentz argued from the House floor on July 23. Thats about 40% of the countys entire area. Birch Creek in Malheur County. (Photos courtesy of Friends of the Owyhee) Sunrise over Birch Creek. The Middle Fork Owyhee River. People living, dumping on Oregons public lands overwhelming Bureau of Land Management The appropriations bill passed through the House on July 24, and if it were to pass through the senate without revision, would theoretically stop the Department of the Interior from using appropriated funds to establish a national monument in Malheur County. Under the Antiquities Act of 1906, the designation of a national monument simply requires presidential approval. While its unclear if President Biden has any plans to establish a national monument in the area, U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) has spent years working with local ranchers, activists and tribes in Malheur County to establish the Malheur CEO Act (Malheur Community Empowerment for the Owyhee Act.) If passed, the bill would allow for a cattle grazing management program in the Owyhee Canyonlands area, designate wilderness areas, and hold land in trust for the Burns Paiute Tribe. Wydens Press Secretary Hank Stern told KOIN 6 News that the Malheur CEO Act has already passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and is awaiting floor action in the U.S. Senate. Rather than engaging in needlessly divisive and partisan floor speeches that gin up false narratives, Senator Wyden has written a bill that reflects a locally based and constructive consensus that provides both protections and flexibilities to accomplish more for the Owyhee area and the people who call it home than a monument could, Stern said. Senator Wydens carefully crafted and balanced bill designates part of this natural treasure as protected wilderness, gives ranchers more grazing flexibility on rangelands and returns ancestral lands to the Burns Paiute Tribe. The Owyhee River. (Photos courtesy of Friends of the Owyhee) Pillars of Rome in Malheur County. The Sheville School House. Tim Davis, a Malheur County resident and the Executive Director of Friends of the Owyhee, told KOIN 6 News that he hopes to improve protections for the land, which he said is of the last wide-open wildland spaces in the Lower 48. With a growing number of Idahoans visiting Malheur County for recreation each year, local activists like Davis are working to preserve Malheurs natural beauty. Its a 7 million acre watershed with less than 2,000 people who live in it, Davis said. But on its doorstep is pushing 1 million people. Davis said that he supports the creation of a national monument in the area. However, he also supports the Malheur CEO Act, which he says would essentially achieve the same protections. I wouldnt put one over the other, Davis said. Lets see which one we can get through to the finish line If we can get it through congress, great. If we can get a land package together, that would be spectacular. But if congress doesnt want to work together, we ask that the president uses the Antiquities Act. Three Forks Dome. (Photos courtesy of Friends of the Owyhee) New map shows Oregon homes with highest wildfire hazards U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) is also a supporter of Wydens bill. Merkleys press secretary Molly Prescott told KOIN 6 News that the Malheur CEO Act stands the best chance of success thats both lasting, and reflective of the wide-ranging support its amassed from ranchers, tribes, environmental activists and community members in Eastern Oregon. Bentzs efforts to prevent the designation of a national monument in Malheur County would not stop the Malheur CEO Act from establishing added protections. Its also highly unlikely that Bentzs amendment makes it into the bills final language, Prescott said which means the designation of a national monument remains a possibility. Appropriations bills have to have bipartisan, bicameral support to be enacted into law, Prescott said. That means controversial provisions are highly unlikely to be included. In fact, since Senator Merkley has been Chair of the Senate Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, his funding bills have carried no new controversial amendments. If the amendment does move forward, Senator Merkley will oppose the provision in final passage. While Democratic and Republican lawmakers are both fighting to protect specific aspects of the Owyhee Canyonlands, Davis said that there is enough space in Malheur County for everything. Theres enough for all of that out there, he said. Its about finding a balance in that landscape and making sure it stays wild and the way we have seen it. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. El Paso police narcotics investigators arrested an accused drug dealer allegedly selling LSD and psychedelic mushrooms after raiding his parents' Northeast home last week. Luciano Deon Gomez is accused of selling LSD and psilocybin mushrooms on at least five occasions since May during a drug investigation, an assistant district attorney said at a detention hearing over the weekend. Corruption: 'Last time': El Paso jailer arrested for smuggling papers laced with cannabis into annex The most recent deal was the sale of 10 units of LSD for $60 at a July 25 meetup at the Rushfair retail area at Rushing Road and Fairbanks Drive in Northeast El Paso, Assistant District Attorney Jennifer VandenBosch said during a teleconference bond hearing on Sunday, Aug. 4. LSD drug raid in Northeast El Paso At noon on Thursday, Aug. 1, investigators served a search warrant at a home where Gomez resides with his parents in the 10300 block of Kellogg Street, VandenBosch said. Gomez's father and stepmother are both deaf, Edward Hernandez, a deputy public defense attorney, noted during the hearing seeking a lower bond amount. The prosecutor said that Gomez was driving away as officers were approaching the house. Another set of officers followed Gomez and arrested him after a traffic stop, where the smell of marijuana was detected and a plastic bag with marijuana was found. Luciano Deon Gomez was arrested on several charges related to dealing LSD, psilocybin mushrooms and other drugs following an El Paso police search of a home on Kellog Street on Thursday, Aug. 1, in Northeast El Paso. In a bedroom at the house, investigators with a drug-sniffing dog found a small plastic bag with MDMA (Ecstasy), more than 230 LSD doses, a marijuana joint and three vacuum-sealed bags of psilocybin mushrooms, VandenBosch said. Gomez was arrested on seven charges of manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance and two counts of drug and marijuana possession. Gomez was originally booked on a bonds totaling $72,500, but at Sunday's hearing, Magistrate Judge Ruben Nunez lowered the total bond to $22,500. As of Monday, Gomez remained at the El Paso County Jail Downtown. Nation: What is microdosing? Why are some people doing it? LSD, also known as "acid" and "lucy," is a powerful hallucinogen popular in the 1960s hippie counterculture that has the potential to cause psychological harm, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration reports. LSD is often sold in the form of small squares from soaked "blotter" paper with colorful designs. The use of hallucinogens has been on the increase nationally in the last five years, including the use of "magic mushrooms" for mental health treatment, leading to their decriminalization in Colorado and Oregon. This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: El Paso police arrest suspected LSD, magic mushrooms dealer El Paso Water officials say within the next couple of years, El Paso will no longer have to rely on drought-prone Elephant Butte and the Rio Grande for drinking water. El Pasoans will no longer have to rely on the Rio Grande for drinking water in the near future, as El Paso Water gradually replaces the river that has historically supplied nearly half of the citys water with other sources that are less susceptible to drought. Regional drought and fluctuating snowfall at the head of the Rio Grande basin in southern Colorado in recent years have left El Paso Water officials increasingly unsure how much water will flow through the river into the city each year. In 2020, water from the Rio Grande supplied 38% of the citys water, but in the next two years, the river supplied just 14% and 17% of El Pasos water supply. Last year, river water provided 31%. Soon, however, El Paso Water wont have to worry about those yearly fluctuations as much. More: El Paso water authority started in time of scarcity Were probably only a year or two out from being able to operate without any water from the Rio Grande, said John Balliew, El Paso Waters longtime chief executive. We would like to be drought-proof as a community. If the drought in the region persists or even gets worse in the years ahead, instead of relying on the Rio Grande for water, El Pasos water utility plans to use a mix of technologies to make up the difference. Balliew highlighted the $150 million advanced water purification plant that will clean wastewater to drinkable standards and is expected to start operating next to the utilitys Bustamante Wastewater Treatment Plant in the Lower Valley within the next few years, as well as an expansion at El Pasos water desalination plant near the airport to boost daily production capacity to 33 million gallons per day from 27.5 million currently. The utility is paying for that desal plant expansion by using some of the extra cash generated from the rate increase it enacted earlier this year. An engineered arroyo in the far Northeast will also allow the utility to pump more excess water underground to replenish groundwater supplies. With all of those things put together, I would agree with what (Balliew is) saying, said Alex Mayer, director of the Center for Environmental Resource Management at the University of Texas at El Paso. Therell be very little reliance on the Rio Grande. Shifting away from the Rio Grande as a water source is a big development for El Pasos water utility, which is expecting to see a more intense drought next year amid a La Nina weather pattern. Scott Reinert, water resources manager for El Paso Water, said he expects Elephant Butte will be just 5% full this fall, down from about 12% full as of August 1 and 23% full this time last year. Once snow melts in southern Colorado after winter, it flows south through the Rio Grande basin in New Mexico before reaching Elephant Butte, where the water is released to El Paso. So, the city will probably receive less water from the Rio Grande next year and will have to pump more groundwater compared with this year, Balliew said. This year is relatively normal, but next year is probably not, Balliew said. Camping trailers sit at the very edge of the shore of Elephant Butte Lake on May 31, 2023. One year ago, with the reservoir at less than ten percent capacity, this sandy peninsula had extended far enough into the lake to connect with outlying islands and rock formations. On average, El Pasoans use about 110 million gallons of water per day. On the hottest summer days, however, water usage across the city can top 162 million gallons as people water their plants more, run water-using evaporative air conditioners or shower more than once. El Paso Water says it can pump a maximum of 170 million gallons of groundwater from its system per day. And the Advanced Water Purification plant will produce as much as 10 million gallons per day when its up-and-running the window of supplies that the utility needs, Balliew said. That 10 is an important number, because thats really the difference between having to implement the drought and water emergency plan and not, Balliew said. Ten million gallons per day is the window that we need to be able to operate without any surface water. The utility isnt quite there yet; for now even a small amount of water coming from Elephant Butte makes all the difference, Balliew said. An ongoing years-long water dispute between Texas, New Mexico and the federal government over complaints that New Mexico has shorted Texas on Rio Grande water deliveries remains stalled after the U.S Supreme Court in June rejected a settlement between the two states. But even if the parties reach a settlement at some point, persistent drought and climate change still threaten to further diminish Rio Grande flows into El Paso. El Paso Waters strategy to develop a drought-proof supply of drinking water is motivated by history. Back in the late 1940s and early 1950s, El Paso was entirely dependent on the Rio Grande for water, but a severe drought hit and by 1951 the citys water utility warned of shortages. At a meeting of the city water board that year, Water Department Superintendent E. J. Umbenhauer said there isnt going to be enough water to go around this summer, according to the El Paso Times. This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: El Pasoans will no longer have to rely on Rio Grande for drinking water Elderly man struck by vehicle while walking into gas station JACKSON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) Florida Highway Patrol is investigating an incident that sent an elderly man to a hospital in critical condition. This incident happened around 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the Pilot gas station on State Road 71 in Marianna. Troopers said an 86-year-old Grand Ridge man was walking from the gas pump to the store when a pickup truck hit him. The 25-year-old Grand Ridge woman driving the pick-up apparently didnt see him. She was not hurt, but paramedics had to airlift the man to an area hospital. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) The commander of the 28th Operations Group, Col. Mark Kimball, has been relieved of his duties at Ellsworth Air Force, the Air Force Global Strike Command said in a news release. Kimball was removed due to a loss of trust and confidence in his ability to command, based on the findings of the B-1 bomber Jan. 4 crash investigation report, the release said. The crash investigation report was released in July. The Air Force investigative report said an organizational culture that tolerated decaying airmanship skills, a lack of discipline, poor communication, and inadequate focus on regulations, as some of the substantial contributing factors to the crash. The report will be used to determine any follow-up action, Lauren Linscott, a spokesman for the Air Force Global Strike Command, said in a July 26 KELOLAND News story that the report would be used to determine any follow-up action. We need to be able to determine what needs to change to make sure something like this doesnt happen again, Linscott said in the July 26 story. The crash destroyed a $450 million bomber, the report said. Although adverse weather conditions substantially contributed to the mishap, the crew lacked situational awareness to adjust to changes in local wind direction during landing, according to the report. Ineffective crew communication also contributed to the crash. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Elon Musk-backed America PAC is being investigated by the Michigan Secretary of States office after complaints emerged stating the register to vote tab on its website didnt direct voters to their states website to do so. Some claim the site generated a detailed form for voters in swing states to fill out and simply stated thank you after they submitted the information. Some claim the website is harvesting personal information. What is it? Hanlons Razor? Do not attribute to malice what can easily be explained by stupidity. If someone was trying to do something well, they werent doing a good job at it, said Queen City News IT Engineer Adam Wells. Taking a look at the website, its nearly impossible to determine intent based on the data available. I cant say, exactly what theyre trying to do here, Wells said, I can just tell you that it is not a very complex website. This website, you could probably put it together in the time were having this conversation. The America PACs website domain was only registered less than two months ago (in May of this year). The current site does not have any links to register to vote. Using an internet archive site called the Wayback Machine, those options were there just yesterday. The websites code brings up this disclaimer, which was added to the main page at one point. It reads, It was brought to our attention on August 2 that some people may have been unable to complete the registration process on this website on August 1 and 2. If you had any difficulty, please try to complete the registration process again or email info@theamericapac.org for assistance. We emailed that email address for comment after experiencing issues ourselves with the media contact form on the site. While some are working to determine if the website has tech issues or if this was a data harvesting scheme, Wells shared there are also other possibilities: The website could have been compromised, he said, and someone else stuck a button on there that was linked into a form that was collecting information without their knowledge, and they found out, and then they took it down. Wells says even the websites privacy policy is rudimentary. Copy and paste standard stuff, he said. The policy states the PAC uses information submitted for the purposes for which it was submitted like being asked to join their email list. Later in the policy, it also states they use information in other ways such as to contact you about other activities and/or fundraising campaigns or as otherwise disclosed to you at the point of collection. A Michigan Secretary of State spokesperson tells Queen City News in part the department is reviewing their activities to determine if there have been any violations of state law but didnt specify what law they suspected was broken. Queen City News reached out to North Carolina Attorney General Josh Steins office to see if they were looking into the site for any potential violations, but we did not hear back. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. Elon Musk filed a new lawsuit against OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman on Monday, reviving a previous legal effort against the massive artificial intelligence (AI) company he helped found. The new federal suit claims Altman and fellow co-founder Greg Brockman breached the companys founding mission, and assiduously manipulated Musk into co-founding their spurious non-profit venture by promising it would create safe and transparent AI technology while actually doing the opposite. Musks attorneys claimed Altman ran a long con on the tech billionaire in the suit, describing perfidy and deceit of Shakespearean proportions. Those echo Musks claims in the previous lawsuit against the company, dropped in June without explanation. Musks attorney Marc Toberoff told The New York Times this second attempt is a much more forceful lawsuit, alleging that OpenAI broke federal racketeering laws in an attempt to defraud Musk when he left the company in 2018. The suit also challenges Microsofts massive investment in the firms for-profit subsidiary, claiming its deal with the tech giant also goes against the companys founding mission by barring it from making its technology open source. OpenAI has previously brushed off Musks allegations, pointing to company emails from shortly before Musk left the company in 2018, where he argues that it should become a commercial subsidiary of Tesla. Executives at OpenAI said in an internal memo when the first suit was filed that the claims may have been sparked by a jealousy for missing out on the companys recent success. Musk now owns a separate AI company called xAI, alongside his ventures as the leader of the social platform X, Tesla and space firm SpaceX. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A political action committee created by billionaire tech CEO Elon Musk has drawn the attention of the North Carolina attorney generals office and the State Board of Elections following a complaint about its collection of personal data. The complaint, filed by political activist and former candidate for state insurance commissioner David Wheeler, alleges that Musks America PAC is pretending to be running an online voter registration drive. However, they are simply collecting data on voters and are fraudulently collecting and retaining confidential voter information. Pat Gannon, a spokesperson for the State Board of Elections, confirmed on Tuesday that that the board has opened an investigation into the allegations. North Carolina law makes it a crime for someone to fail to submit a voters registration form if that person has told a voter that they would be submitting the voters registration form, Gannon told The News & Observer. A spokesperson for Attorney General Josh Stein, a Democrat who is running for governor, said Tuesday that his office is looking into the Super PAC as well, though it has not opened its own formal investigation. This comes after reporting from CNBC found that America PACs website asked for personal information from visitors and promised to help them register to vote, but failed to do so in some states. According to CNBC, site visitors in states where the presidential election is not expected to be competitive were quickly directed to their states voter registration page. But voters in battleground states, like North Carolina, were prompted to give further personal information and, after submitting it, were not taken to a voter registration page. Visiting a voter registration link on Tuesday from one of the PACs tweets brought the user to a website with the following pop-up message: It was brought to our attention on August 2 that some people may have been unable to complete the registration process on this website on August 1 and 2. If you had any difficulty, please try to complete the registration process again or email info@theamericapac.org for assistance. Per state law, voters can only register online through the DMV website, not a private website. America PAC, which Musk said he created, is supporting former President Donald Trump against Vice President Kamala Harris in 2024. The PAC did not respond to a request for comment on Tuesday. According to FEC filings, the group had raised nearly $9 million by the end of June. Super PACs can accept unlimited donations from corporations and individuals, but cannot work directly with candidates. Musk, who is CEO of Tesla and SpaceX as well as the owner of X, initially said he would give around $45 million a month to Trumps campaign, according to The Wall Street Journal. Musk later called this report ridiculous on X and said he was making some donations to the PAC but at a much lower level. The secretary of state in Michigan has also opened an investigation into the PAC, with a spokesperson for her office telling CNBC, Every citizen should know exactly how their personal information is being used by PACs, especially if an entity is claiming it will help people register to vote in Michigan or any other state. ZAGREB, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Since Chinese police joined Croatia's joint patrol project in 2018, their presence at main tourist sites has become a common summer sight for locals and international visitors. The joint patrol is reported to have brought a sense of safety for Chinese tourists and those from other countries. Zagreb resident Ruza Spicek said it is pleasant to see the joint patrol of Chinese and Croatian police officers in the Croatian capital. "I often see Chinese police officers conducting joint patrols with our police. They are well-mannered and it is very nice to see them," Spicek told Xinhua. She added that she feels reassured knowing that police officers from Croatia and China provide enhanced security and protection for tourists and locals. Matija Nikic, another Zagreb resident, applauded the initiative and the gains through cultural exchange: "People from different cultures learn from each other and share experiences." For Chinese tourists, encountering police officers from their home country feels like meeting acquaintances and relatives in a foreign land, and tourists from other countries appreciate the reassurance of enhanced protection. "Generally, the public is very receptive to seeing police officers. They feel at ease, safer, and more comfortable, as there is someone to help them if in need," said Marvin McClure, who came from Northern Ireland, Britain. He described the joint patrol as "a very forward-thinking strategic perspective." The Chinese-Croatian joint patrol has contributed to Croatia's Safe Tourist Destination project, launched to make the country a safe tourist destination. This project invites police officers from other countries to patrol major tourist areas along with Croatian police officers. China joined the initiative in 2018. On July 22, eight Chinese officers began a one-month joint patrol mission in Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Zadar, and Plitvice Lakes National Park. They aim to assist Chinese tourists and prevent crimes while enhancing police cooperation between the two countries. Mislav Svigir, a Croatian police officer, praised the cooperation with his Chinese colleagues. "We have a phenomenal experience with Chinese colleagues. They are professional colleagues, and we have developed friendships," Svigir said, adding that he remains in touch with the Chinese police officers even after they finished the joint patrol and returned to China. According to Vlatka Vulic Petkovic, director of the International Cooperation Department of the Croatian Police, the joint police patrols between China and Croatia have deepened bilateral law enforcement cooperation and contributed significantly to the Safe Tourist Destination project. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) Nearly a month after a judge ordered a controversial Providence scrap metal yard to shut down temporarily, the business held a community meeting Tuesday to outline its plan and vision for the site. Rhode Island Recycled Metals, which owns the Allens Avenue scrapyard, hosted the public meeting at the Knight Memorial Library in Providence. Environmental geologists and engineers that specialize in environmental assessment, remediation, and compliance were in attendance. The consultants will discuss the history of the site, the current status of the site, what plans are being proposed, and what the site will look in the future, Recycled Metals officials wrote in a news release. The business has been shut down since R.I. Superior Court Judge Brian Stern on July 12 ordered it closed temporarily, siding with state prosecutors who argued the company has become a public nuisance after two massive fires at the property this year. Stern granted a temporarily restraining order against the business alongside the Providence River, and he directed a special master to review practices at the scrapyard to determine whether the company has made any efforts to try to prevent similar fires from happening in the future. R.I. Attorney General Peter Neronhas office was seeking to shut down the company indefinitely and place it into receivership, a state-equivalent of federal bankruptcy. MORE: Embattled Providence scrap metal yard taking steps to reopen after fire Last week, company spokesperson Patrick Sweeney told Target 12 the scrap metal yards safety expert had submitted a fire-mitigation plan to the special master. Sweeney said the company has proposed reducing the size of scrap piles, providing additional employee training and making several site improvements. According to Sweeney, the business would also install thermal cameras to monitor the scrap piles. The cameras are designed to detect infrared radiation and could help show flames or abnormal heat before a fire becomes widespread. The cameras would also automatically send cell phone alerts to the owners, safety consultant and two key employees, according to Sweeney. Additionally, the company wants to put a 500-gallon water truck next to scrap piles prior to the start of shift and moved away at end of shift. All buildings, equipment and company vehicles would be equipped with fire extinguishers, in addition to being placed near scrap piles, according to the companys proposed plan. Sweeney said the company is hoping to go before a judge to present its plan sometime this week, although no hearings had been formally scheduled as of Tuesday afternoon. The business has been under regulatory scrutiny for years. The R.I. Department of Environmental Management (DEM) first cited the business in 2012, accusing the company of polluting the Providence River. The DEM and attorney generals office then sued the company in 2015, alleging the scrapyard operations were contributing to oil spilling into the river, and that it needed to install storm-water controls to prevent pollution. A special master was later appointed to oversee the companys cleanup plan. The company said Tuesday its owners have invested millions into the property and have been making progress on by installing temporary storm-water controls on, among other things. All derelict vessels have been removed except one last tug, which is scheduled for removal shortly, R.I. Recycled Metals said. RIRM has cleaned up the waterfront, engaged with environmental engineers who have completed extensive testing with comprehensive reports. Alexandra Leslie (aleslie@wpri.com) is a Target 12 investigative reporter covering Providence and more for 12 News. Connect with her on Twitter and on Facebook. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. One of two wind turbines off the coast of Virginia Beach that comprise Dominion Energys Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind pilot project. (Sarah Vogelsong/ Virginia Mercury) A regional project to upgrade the infrastructure connecting offshore wind farms to the electric grid was awarded nearly $390 million in federal funding through a competitive grant program, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced Tuesday. The Power Up New England project, submitted by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources on behalf of all six New England states, was one eight projects nationwide awarded $2.2 billion through DOEs Grid Innovation Program. The project is a collaboration among state agency energy departments, local utility companies and an unnamed emerging technology developer. It aims to ready the region for the flurry of new offshore wind projects which, once finished, collectively bring several thousand megawatts of renewable electricity to the regional grid. The $389 million in federal funding, which requires a $500 million local match, specifically pays for new and upgraded interconnection points in southeastern Massachusetts and southeastern Connecticut, as well as new battery storage systems in southwest Connecticut and in Maine. Built off of Rhode Islands early success, New England is leading the deployment of clean offshore wind technology, U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse said in a statement. This significant federal funding will help the region further its expansion of offshore wind by making needed investments in transmission and energy storage while improving the reliability and resiliency of the electric grid. Even though Rhode Island will not house the batteries or new interconnection points, officials touted the money as a win for the state economy and environment, including in meeting its ambitious decarbonization goals. Rhode Island has also joined forces with Massachusetts and Connecticut to coordinate new solicitations for offshore wind projects, with a tentative selection expected on Wednesday, Aug. 7. This federal funding award is critical to advancing New Englands offshore wind opportunities, improving our regional energy system, and aligning with our Act on Climate clean energy development objectives, Gov. Dan McKee said in a statement. I am so proud of the strong collaboration by the New England State Energy Offices in securing these federal funds for our collective consumers, which will provide long-term benefits. A second regional project that included New England and New York seeking federal funding for a New York-New England transmission line was not awarded funding in the first round of grants. However, additional awards are expected later this year, according to DOE. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included $10.5 billion for a Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships program aimed at helping states bolster their power grids and improve resilience against climate change and extreme weather. Roughly $5.7 billion across 65 projects has been distributed so far, including $50 million to Rhode Island Energy for a smart grid that will improve service and energy efficiency for utility customers. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Farmworkers, in particular, face burdensome conditions in the fields and often face exposure to harmful pesticides while working to feed others, said U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva, D-Ariz. (pictured in 2022), hailing Tuesdays EPA action which he says prioritizes farmworker health and safety, especially for pregnant women, by suspending this harmful chemical from our agricultural systems. File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI Aug. 6 (UPI) -- The federal Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday issued an "historic" emergency order to stop the use of the pesticide Dacthal, or DCPA, in order to fully look at the serious health risks it poses to unborn babies and pregnant women. This is the first time in almost 40 years the agency has taken this type of emergency action, according to the EPA. "DCPA is so dangerous that it needs to be removed from the market immediately," said Michal Freedhoff, assistant administrator for the EPA' Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention, said in a statement. On Tuesday, it was announced that an emergency suspension had been applied to all registrations of the pesticide dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate, otherwise known as DCPA or Dacthal, under the 1947 Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act, which was signed into law by former President Harry S. Truman. This decision by the EPA arrived due to the fact, the federal agency says, evidence is indicating how pregnant women exposed to the DCPA pesticide can possibly lead to irreversible fetus damage when exposed in utero, with changes linked to it like low birth weight, impaired brain development, decreased IQ and impaired motor skills later in life, some of which may be irreversible. Nearly 20% of fresh, frozen and canned fruits and vegetables that Americans eat contain concerning levels of pesticides, a new report finds. Farmworkers, in particular, face burdensome conditions in the fields and often face exposure to harmful pesticides while working to feed others, according to Rep. Raul Grijalva, D-Ariz.., who hailed Tuesday's EPA action which he says "prioritizes farmworker health and safety, especially for pregnant women, by suspending this harmful chemical from our agricultural systems." It comes after "unprecedented efforts" by the White House over the last few years to get what it called "long-overdue" data on the pesticide from its sole manufacturer, U.S- based AMVAC Chemical Corporation, in order to assess its overall risk. In April of 2022, the Biden EPA issued the hardly-used Notice of Intent to Suspend DCPA based on AMVAC's failure to submit the complete set of required data almost 10 years after the EPA's 2013 request and January 2016 due date for the new data went unanswered. By April this year, the EPA was warning farmworkers about the risks of the pesticide as it reveled the government agency was developing "next steps" to address the risks of Dacthal. "We must continue to build on this progress and ensure all farmworkers are given the protection, worker's rights, and overtime pay they deserve," said Grijalva. The EPA says it consulted with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to better understand how growers use DCPA and its likely alternatives to the pesticide. It was first introduced in 1958 to control weeds in agricultural and non-agricultural settings for crops such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and onions, according to an EPA report. "This emergency decision is a great first step that we hope will be in a series of others that are based on listening to farmworkers, protecting our reproductive health, and safeguarding our families," Mily Trevino Sauceda, executive director of Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, said. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)Seven of the 15 schools in El Paso ISD that have middle school classes will require all 8th-grade students to take Algebra 1 before high school. This significant change is a crucial step towards making it mandatory for all fifteen schools the following school year, underscoring the importance of this initiative. Its critically important for us to build a strong college career and military readiness pipeline to our high schools. Typically, math is a gatekeeping course, so we want to make sure that we open that door of opportunity for our students, get them well trained and well prepared at the middle school level. So that when they hit high school, theyre prepared for some of the rigor theyll face in science and math, said EPISD Superintendent Diana Sayavedra, emphasizing the positive impact this initiative will have on students future academic and career paths, instilling a sense of optimism in the audience. Saavedra said theyre launching the initiative with only half of the schools this year to assess how students and teachers adjust to the change. I think that one of the reasons why we pilot prior to scaling a program like that, is to build the infrastructure, make sure that we work out any kinks or any thing that we might not have anticipated. So that when we expand to scale at all middle school campuses, we have a robust, high quality program and we can really meet the needs of all of our students, Sayavedra said, assuring the audience of the thorough planning and consideration that has gone into this initiative. The expansion is expected to take place [specific timeline for the expansion]. You can find the schools that are part of the pilot program for the 2024-2025 school year below: Brown Middle School Canyon Hills Middle School Charles Middle School Guillen Middle School Tinajero PK-8 Bobby Joe Hill PK-8 Wiggs Middle School Ross Moore, president of the El Paso American Federation of Teachers, said the district is launching this initiative without properly preparing students and teachers for the transition. As you get an initiative, you time it, you plan it. (Consider) Okay, if we do this, what will be the effects? What are we going to have to take off our teachers plates if we put this on them? You dont just throw an idea out there and hope it sticks, said Moore. He worries that not all students will be prepared to take the advanced math course, so teachers will not be able to adjust to each students needs. Teachers need to be able to differentiate (students readiness), and that means whether to slow things down, speed things up, or reteach, Moore said. He also rejects the idea that all students should be forced to take advanced math, as only some are seeking a career or livelihood that demands those courses. Why do I need three years of math to be a lawyer? Why do I need three years of math to be a journalist? Why buttonhole a kid into it? Particularly if they dont like it? They go into something they dont like, that they dont understand, where the teacher is not allowed to teach, but rather just run these computers. Thats going to end up messy, and thats going to hurt the kid and their desire to learn. Despite the challenges, Sayavedra expressed her confidence in the adaptability of students, assuring that they can rise to the occasion and meet the expectation set for them. Emphasizing the importance of setting high expectations, Sayavedra noted that it is a crucial step in enhancing the quality of instruction and the learning experiences for our students, inspiring us to strive for excellence. In 2023, the Texas Legislature passed a law requiring all school districts and open-enrollment charter schools to develop an advanced mathematics program that will prepare middle school students for Algebra 1 in 8th grade. The new legislation, Senate Bill (SB) 2124, has a significant impact on students. According to the Texas Education Agencys (TEA) website, it requires schools to automatically enroll all 6th-grade students in an advanced math course if they placed in the top 40% on the 5th-grade State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) mathematics exam. Going above and beyond what the state requires? I dont think you guys have an idea of how many mandates the state puts on the district, Moore said. Why jump on another one (initiative)? (Teachers) are putting in an average of 50-55 hours per week with what the district has on their plate nowI have members who are going to four different campuses in one day. Moores concerns underscore the need for a balanced approach to implementing the advanced mathematics program. He worries that the current focus on looking good and achieving marks, such as having 100% of students in Algebra, may come at the expense of students and teachers. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. An organization helping area artists has a new home. Erie Arts and Culture is moving into the historic Cashiers House in downtown Erie. The organization supports, connects and engages with artists and communities throughout western Pennsylvania. Sister of Larry Meredith speaks on his legacy, city hosts first annual walk in his name They hope that the new space will allow them to provide even more resources in arts education, creative entrepreneurship, and much more. This room will have a living room feel. So, it will have a couch, some comfortable chairs, probably some breakout spaces. we would love for people to be able to come in and use this space if they cant make it to the library that day, if they cant make it to wherever they might need to drop in and use a computer. in the future I want to be able to have a desktop computer available for people who do not have them, so we can help them apply for grants or access the resources that we have online, said Anne ODell, executive director of Erie Arts and Culture. Playhouse for All initiative aims to make live theatre accessible for Erie community Erie Arts and Culture will hold their first event in the new space when they host their Gallery Night on September 27. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. (WJET/WFXP) An Erie resident was found guilty of brokering unregistered firearms, one of which had an obliterated serial number. On Friday, August 2, a federal jury found 36-year-old Erie resident Joseph Leonard Stratton-Kiehlmeier guilty of one count of aiding and abetting the transfer of unregistered fully automatic firearms after a four-hour deliberation. 13 people arrested during drug bust in Chautauqua Co. According to evidence presented during the trial, Stratton-Kiehlmeier was offering to broker the sale and transfer of illegal, unregistered machine guns in January 2020. The firearms Stratton-Kiehlmeier was trying to sell were a Yugo rifle with an obliterated serial number and a Tikkakoski submachine gun. Both guns were operable and fully automatic. Stratton-Kiehlmeier was eventually arrested after a confidential source met with him to buy the guns. This source, who recorded the entire meeting, paid $2,000 for the firearms and later turned them over to law enforcement. State police investigating after $8,000-plus scam in Venango Co. An FBI agent located in Pittsburgh commented on why its important to stop the illegal sale of automatic weapons. High-powered weapons in the hands of criminals endangers our community and increases the risk for deadly violence, said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent Kevin Rojek. Public safety is a shared mission, and the FBI and our partners stand committed to protecting the lives of innocent citizens everywhere. Senior United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone scheduled sentencing for December 2, 2024. The maximum sentence Stratton-Kiehlmeier could face is 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or both. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. Estonia charges citizen who wrote for Russian state media with treason Estonia's Public Prosecutor's Office has charged Svetlana Burceva, an Estonian citizen who wrote for Russian state-run media, with treason and violating international sanctions, the media outlet ERR reported on Aug. 6. Burceva was arrested in March after it was revealed that she wrote for the Russian state sponsored Balt News an arm of the Kremlin-run RT news outlet. Another RT-subsidiary, Sputnik Estonia, was shuttered for violating sanctions in 2019, but Burceva is accused of continuing to write for the outlet and its affiliates under a pseudonym. The EU imposed sanctions against RT in March 2022, following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. According to the Public Prosecutor's Office, Burceva, who became a naturalized Estonian citizen in 1994, knowingly violated sanctions. Between 2019 and 2021, she completed a Master's degree at Sevastopol State University in occupied Crimea, where she reportedly "enrolled in a program on information and hybrid conflicts, supervised and directed by a former FBI counterintelligence officer and head of a private intelligence firm registered in Russia." Prosecutors said that the program "aims to train international media workers and analysts to be at the forefront of combating hybrid threats Russia faces." Upon completing her studies, Burceva reportedly wrote a book under different name, along with the program director, entitled "Hybrid War for the World," describing "a global hybrid war that Russia must win." The book allegedly is intended to sow division in Estonia, prosecutors said. A pre-trial investigation by the Estonian Internal Security Service (ISS) "concluded that Burceva could not be considered an independent, objective, and neutral journalist." Russian state sponsored media outlets have been instrumental in promoting pro-Russian propaganda since the start of the full-scale invasion. Estonia has long been concerned about undue influence from Russia, being on the far eastern flank of NATO and having a considerable ethnic Russian minority. In a widely reported case earlier in 2024, an ethnic Russian professor at Estonia's University of Tartu was convicted of spying for his home country. Read also: From Estonian university professor to convicted Russian spy: the curious case of Viacheslav Morozov Sign up for our newsletter WTF is wrong with Russia? Sign up Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. (Bloomberg) -- The European Union authorized the first regular payment from its close to 50 billion ($55 billion) support package for Ukraine thats aimed at keeping the beleaguered economy running during Russias invasion. Most Read from Bloomberg Ukraine will receive 4.2 billion, which Kyiv can use to support its public administration and to strengthen financial stability, according to an EU statement on Tuesday. It stressed the importance of allocating the money as soon as possible, given the difficult fiscal situation in Ukraine. The payment comes after the EU already allocated almost 8 billion to Ukraine in bridge financing and pre-financing from the so-called Ukraine Facility that the 27-member bloc set up from March. On Monday, Ukraine also received $3.9 billion in US budget support, which is part of a $61 billion package the Senate approved in April. As part of the EU aid, Ukraine has agreed to broad-based reforms, including in the areas of public finance and the fight against corruption. The funds are to be disbursed by 2027 and are also meant to support Ukraine as it goes through the EU accession process. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. BRUSSELS (Reuters) - European Union governments approved on Tuesday the first regular payment to Ukraine of 4.2 billion euros ($4.58 billion) of the 50 billion euros the EU has set aside as financial support for Kyiv, the governments, called the EU Council, said in a statement. The money will come in a mix of grants and loans after Ukraine has met the conditions for disbursement that included reforms of public financial management, governance of state-owned enterprises, business environment, energy and de-mining. The 50 billion euro fund for 2024-2027 was agreed by EU governments in March. So far Ukraine received from it 6 billion euros in bridge financing and 1.9 billion euros in pre-financing. ($1 = 0.9164 euros) (Reporting by Jan Strupczewski; Editing by Tomasz Janowski) EU sends 4.2 billion in financial aid to Ukraine An European Union flag flies in the wind. Sebastian Gollnow/dpa European Union countries signed off on the first quarterly payment to Ukraine from a 50 billion ($55 billion) support fund on Tuesday. The payment worth 4.2 billion is to finance the functioning of the state as Ukraine fights to defeat Russia's all-out invasion and support the economic stability of the war-stricken country. The EU overcame entrenched opposition from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban earlier this year to set up the 50-billion fund for Ukraine, sourced from the bloc's budget, to run until 2027. The Hungarian premier, viewed as having the closest relations with Moscow in the bloc, vetoed a previous attempt to set up the fund citing a lack of built-in review mechanisms. Orban has also previously linked the EU budget negotiations with the disbursement of EU funds for his country, which had been frozen over corruption and abuse of power allegations. EU leaders agreed to debate the fund's operation each year until 2027. With the latest 4.2 billion payment, the EU has issued 12 billion to Ukraine from the support fund. Ukraine must meet pre-agreed conditions to continue to receive the regular quarterly payments under the fund. VLADIVOSTOK, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- A Russian Pacific Fleet submarine destroyed a simulated enemy vessel during exercises in the Sea of Japan, Pacific Fleet Command was quoted Russia's RIA Novosti news agency as saying on Tuesday. According to the exercise scenario, the crew of the "Komsomolsk-on-Amur" submarine was tasked with covertly approaching the target, engaging the simulated enemy vessel, which was represented by a special target, and then stealthily exiting the area. "The submarine crew successfully accomplished the assigned mission. The firing was carried out with two training torpedoes in compliance with safety requirements," the fleet command said. The exercise was conducted in accordance with the Pacific Fleet's combat training plan at a naval training range in the Sea of Japan. Welcome to TechCrunch Fintech! This week, were looking at Revoluts reported valuation hike, fintech unicorns, the Disrupt Fintech Stage, and more. To get a roundup of TechCrunchs biggest and most important fintech stories delivered to your inbox every Tuesday at 8 a.m. PT, subscribe here. The big story Revolut reportedly told staff last week of plans to sell up to $500 million worth of existing shares at a $45 billion valuation, according to the Financial Times. This is notable because, if true, it would make the banking giant Europes most valuable startup. The valuation also marks a significant jump from the $33 billion Revolut was valued at in 2021. As the FT noted, the company is one of the few fintechs to have increased its valuation since a slowdown in venture capital hit the sector in the past two years. In late July, Revolut was granted a banking license from the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) in the U.K. a significant milestone for the London-based fintech company, particularly since it had been trying to secure this license since 2021. Analysis of the week So far this year, 38 unicorns have been minted in the U.S. in all of 2024, according to an analysis by TCs Dominic-Madori Davis. Of those 38, three were in the fintech space: Altruist $1.5 billion: This fintech startup, which offers investment management for independent registered investment advisers, was founded in 2018. It raised a $169 million Series E in May, led by ICONIQ Growth, valuing the company at $1.5 billion. Aven $1 billion: Aven, founded in 2019, is a consumer credit card company. It reached a $1 billion valuation after closing a $142 million Series D led by Khosla Ventures and General Catalyst, according to CB Insights. Octane $1.1 billion: A company that offers instant financing on mowers and recreational vehicles, Octane raised $50 million in April, giving in a post-money valuation of $1.11 billion. Dollars and cents A new form of alternative investing: FranShares is a Chicago-based startup that wants to offer investors another form of passive income: the chance to invest in franchises for as little as $500. The company has raised $4.2 million in seed funding led by Chicago Ventures to grow its business. Weve been covering U.S.-based insurtech startup Faye since 2022, first with its seed round and then with its Series A round in 2023. It seems they continue to be on a roll, last week announcing $31 million in Series B funding. What is keeping this online insurance company on the rise? Well, it would appear to be the way it combines travel insurance, assistance while you are away from home, and a range of financial solutions, packed inside a comprehensive smartphone app. It might be said that in the way Lemonade managed to hit a millennial generation with a sexier-packaged insurance platform, Faye has been plowing a similar field. What else were writing Scoop: Alex Cook, a partner at Tiger Global who oversaw some of its largest fintech investments and India deals, is departing the firm after a tenure of nearly seven years, three people familiar with the matter told TechCrunch. Cook has briefed multiple people around him about his departure news over the past week, although he hasnt explained why he's leaving. The serious, long-term negative impact of the bankruptcy of banking-as-a-service (BaaS) fintech Synapse will be significant on all of fintech, especially consumer-facing services, one observer has said. In the wake of that companys collapse, other startups in the space are working hard to prove that not all BaaS companies are created equal. Partners to fintechs Unit CEO and co-founder Itai Damti, Synctera CEO and co-founder Peter Hazlehurst, and Treasury Prime general counsel and chief compliance officer Sheetal Parikh are working overtime to ensure their companies are operating in a compliant manner. The trio will join us onstage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 to discuss the challenges facing the industry and how their offerings are being built to protect the customers served by their fintech clients. High-interest headlines Evolve hires ex-con Fmr Synapse compliance chief to aid recon efforts, sources say Insurance comparison site The Zebra buys Marble Bilt Rewards elevates valuation to $3.25BN with new $150M investment (TC covered Bilts last raise here.) MUFG buys stake in Philippine fintech GCash for $393 million Brazilian receivables marketplace Monkey Exchange raises $11 million Want to reach out with a tip? Email me at maryann@techcrunch.com or send me a message on Signal at 408.204.3036. You can also send a note to the whole TechCrunch crew at tips@techcrunch.com. For more secure communications, click here to contact us. Residents, police officers, church and community leaders and the children who live in the south end of East St. Louis are counting on a huge turnout for a community event called Resources & Strategies for a Stronger & Safer South End. It will be held Thursday from 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at Mt. Paran Missionary Baptist Church at 1601 Russell Ave. Organizers say it is a solution-based event aimed at collectively promoting a stronger and safer south end, and it takes the entire community working together. We have found there are numerous different entities and resources within the East St. Louis community that are geared toward helping citizens of all ages in the community with whatever they need help with, said Illinois State Police Lt. Elbert Jennings. The people who can provide the resources will be on hand at Mt. Paran Church, which was chosen because of its central location in the community, Jennings said. When they come to the church they will see the resources there, Jennings said. Whether the families have education or healthcare needs, or need help filling out an application or assistance with getting an ID card, someone will be there to provide the necessary help. Police will be among the participants, but they will be working in a different capacity to show the people the officers are just like them and want to work with citizens to keep their neighborhoods as safe as possible, Jennings said. The police will not be conducting any law enforcement business such as asking for proof of identification, arresting people, or doing any questioning of individuals. Its important for the police to be involved in these settings because we want the community to know that we are not just there (in their community) to respond to a crime, he said. Jenkins said the police partnering with community organizations that are going to be present is definitely a way where we as the police can build positive relationships within the community and help us to make the area as safe and as stable as it can be. It takes a partnership to eradicate and prevent crime. Zachary Lee, pastor of Mt. Paran, said he and others want to turn around problems in the south end of the city. To accomplish this, Lee and his church members are trying to be involved with the community to address the issues that will make the south end safer and stronger. For the church, helping the community is an ongoing effort. For example, every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., they feed the hungry, said Lee, who is national vice president of Grill to Glory, a campaign involving churches in East St.Louis, St.Louis, Kansas City and around the nation that set up barbecue grills on the church campuses. We provide hot dogs and free food from 11:00-1:00 p.m., and it has spun a relationship between the community and the church, he said. Lee said all hands on deck are needed to make the south end a beautiful, safe and stable place for the residents, families, and their children. Were trying to get the community people to come out and tell us what they want, Lee said. Were hearing they want a community center, something for the kids to do, summer jobs, to name a few. We also want to get the youth involved in more positive activities. One of the positive activities, he said, is called Sunday Morning Jesus Camp. Sixty-eight children come every Sunday. They eat breakfast free. We give them food to take home. We give them little small rewards as an incentive to do good, the pastor said. Theyre mannerable. Its just amazing the impact were having with these children by getting them involved in the church. My preaching is wholesomeness. Yes Maam. No Maam. Respect your mother and your father. The event Thursday will include a big dinner, and the church and other organizations will provide children with school supplies and uniforms. We are working with other social outlets to provide some assistance and were taking donations as well, Lee said. Byron Jenkins, a trustee at Mt. Paran, said the goal is to build rapport with the young people and their parents. That will lead to a safer, stronger community for everybody. We want to give them some positive things to do. We have to give them an alternative to the streets, Jenkins said. Tandra Johnson, a church member, said, We want to build a rapport with the community. We want to get more people to come to the church so we can build a relationship with the community. Our goal is to bring the community together so we can communicate better. Johnson said some of the young people attending will be able talk to other young people.To build a better community, we have to have relationships, Johnson said. The church wants to be a resource for the community. We want the people to have some place to go. For example, she said, there are some mental health issues in the community that people should talk about. If there is no one to talk about these things, I think that is what causes a lot of issues, she said. After seeing what happened to Sonya Massey, that mental health is truly getting stronger. Massey was shot to death by Sangamon County Sheriffs deputy Sean Grayson on July 6. Deputies were visiting her home after she called authorities to report a prowler. The deputy who shot her, who is white, is now charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct in the death of Massey, who was Black. Jenkins, a church trustee, said the mission of the church has been, and still is, to make our community better and to stop all of the violence. We want to bring our community back the way it used to be. That means making a connection with the kids in the community to give them an opportunity to look forward to something in life. Weve got babies raising babies. They need help. They do not have any guidance, he said. Were hoping to get them reconnected with the church and get them going in a positive direction. We need some educators, tradesmen and other people with different skill sets to come out and mentor and provide some help to the people. Sharon Johnson, a church member, said shes excited about bringing the community together at Thursdays event. The people who come will meet some neighbors they do not already know, she said. Sometimes people go in their doors and close them behind them. When we talk to each other, we keep our community safe. She said a lack of communication is part of the reason there is so much gun violence. And when young people dont have anything to do, they can get involved with the wrong people, she said. Johnson said Mt Paran Church believes in the children. We feed them as much as they want. Theyre learning about the Lord. We play games with them. We let them know we care about them, she said. Johnson said she was brought up in the church. We want to encourage our young people to get in church where they will meet other young people they can relate to... who will listen to them and share what kept them from getting into trouble. Naomi Outlaw,7, goes to the Sunday morning Jesus Camp at Mt. Paran. She said she likes the church. They feed us. They teach us and they take us on field trips. Its fun, Naomi told a BND reporter. I like the pastor too. He teaches us lots of things. She said more children should come because they will have a good time. She shouted over the phone, very loudly, The church is great! Carmen Segar, 8, likes the fun and learning at the Jesus Camp. They teach us. We read books. We go on field trips. Its like a loving family. They care about us, Carmen said. She said she wants to be successful in life. And, she wants the people in the community where she lives to love each other. Jarrel Outlaw, 9, said at the Jesus Camp, We learn about God. They feed us. We go on fun field trips. He wants to see more young people come out to the church. Johnson said she is looking for a tremendous turnout at Thursdays community event. I know we will turn out in big numbers, she said. Federal court records show a former Columbus police officer is expected to enter into a plea agreement in a drug trafficking case. A notice of a plea agreement in the case against Joel Mefford, 34, was filed Tuesday, according to U.S. District Court records. Mefford had been scheduled to go to trial in September. No date had been set as of 2:45 p.m. Tuesday for a plea hearing in Mefford's case. The terms of the plea agreement are not publicly available. Mefford is charged with possession of five kilograms or more of cocaine and possession with the intent to distribute. He also faces a money laundering charge. Federal court records say Mefford and another unnamed officer were investigating drug crimes in February 2020 at a detached garage belonging to a suspect in a drug investigation. Police were expected to execute a search warrant on the garage the following morning, court records say, but an employee of the apartment complex where the garage was located gave Mefford and the other officer garage access. The officers illegally searched the garage, according to court records. Mefford and the other officer removed two kilograms of cocaine from the garage's rafters, taking one and leaving the other for officers to find during the planned raid, court records said. Cops in cuffs: Here are central Ohio law enforcement officers charged with crimes in 2024 About a month later, Mefford and an unnamed officer were investigating a drug trafficking operation when the officers approached a suspect at a gas station. That suspect told the officers there was cocaine in a house on Ambleside Drive and went with the officers to the home, court records say. Mefford and the other officer took a bag with multiple kilograms of cocaine from a person at the home, identified in court record as "Person C" and arrested that person, according to court records. Mefford also is accused of an April 2020 theft of 20 kilograms of cocaine from the Columbus police evidence room, replacing the drugs with fake cocaine, court records say. Mefford and another officer went into the property room with a black case of fake drugs and replaced the 20 kilograms retreived in a bust with the fakes. Mefford later met another officer, who is not identified by name in court records, at Nationwide Children's Hospital, exchanging the stolen cocaine with another person who would sell it, court records say. Mefford earned more than $72,000 in that transaction, according to court records. Mefford joined Columbus police in 2011. He resigned following his arrest in February 2024. bbruner@gannett.com This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Records: Ex-Columbus cop to plead guilty to stealing, selling cocaine Way back in 2018, former Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin tried to (illegally and secretly) gut the teacher pension system. When teachers came out to protest what became known as the sewer bill in massive numbers, Bevin accused them of abetting child sexual abuse. I guarantee you somewhere in Kentucky today, a child was sexually assaulted that was left at home because there was nobody there to watch them, he said, adding he guaranteed a child was physically assaulted or ingested poison because they were home alone because a single parent didnt have any money to take care of them. That was the first thing I remembered when I read the London Times story about how the Bevins had allegedly sent one of their four adopted Ethiopian children to a disciplinary school in Jamaica that was little more than an abusive hellhole where children were tortured, starved and then abandoned. The troubled teen industry is a lucrative one for grifters, apparently. Bevins child, now 17, was a ward of the Jamaican state, according to the investigation, because his parents never showed up for court proceedings. The Kentucky Lantern reported that he was no longer in Jamaica. The London Times is a serious, reputable news organization. They wouldnt have printed such accusations without considerable diligence. Nonetheless, if this is true or if there is some other explanation, the Bevins need to speak. Bevins lawyer, Jesse Mudd, did not respond to a call for comment. Mark Dobbins, a Louisville lawyer representing Glenna Bevins in their divorce proceedings, declined to comment. This story triggered some other memories of Bevin. Amid the sociopathic braggadocio he exhibited during his sole term, his only saving grace appeared to be his desire to improve the foster care and adoption systems in Kentucky. Of course, being Bevin, he chose a Baptist preacher as adoption czar, who was paid $240,000 a year in a no-bid contract. That guy left without explanation, and Bevin hired some more Baptist preachers from Florida to save us in 2018. Then Bevin lost the election, and we found out about a lot of other bad stuff, like pardons for political donations, but not much more about fixing adoptions. A lot of politicians these days project their own foibles and fears onto their opponents, but surely nothing quite as sick and tortured as this appears to be. Projection and irony. Remember, part of Bevins zeal was the fact that in 2012, Kentucky state officials turned down the Bevins desired adoption of a girl in social care. So they flew off to Ethiopia and brought home four more. Now Bevin, who wants so much to be relevant that he played a little strip tease last year about running for governor, is nowhere to be found. (He decided not to file, but still gave an annoying lecture about everything that he would fix). He and Glenna are in the middle of a contentious divorce, complicated by the unsurprising news that he insists on coming to her house (probably to give more annoying little lectures). But both Bevins owe Kentucky, their children, and especially their adopted son a candid explanation of what happened here, If this is true, and its been published since July 13 without any denials by the Bevins, then we need to know how self-proclaimed, self-righteous Christians and parents could behave in such a reprehensible way. This is nothing unusual for Matt Bevin its so rage-inducing, but its not shocking to anyone who listened to him, said Nema Brewer, one of the leaders of the teacher protests back in 2018. This is the same man who went on TV and radio and trashed educators across the state, because they were expressing their First Amendment rights, and he sent his own kid to a child labor camp. Im not really sure if Kentuckians understand how grateful they should be to educators for pushing him out of office and out of influence in this state. One of the worst parts of the heartrending article is from the court hearing to claim the children from the abusive schools, which was raided by Jamaican authorities. No one is here for the three adopted boys, writes reporter Decca Aitkenhead. Noah, the former Kentucky governors son, is unsurprised. I ask why he thinks Bevin adopted him. Public image, he mutters. Bevins public image had already fallen on hard times in Kentucky, but it seems poised to go down further. Regardless, he needs to explain this tragic saga, and if he and Glenna wont do it, then his current employer, Neuronetrix, should demand one. His birth children should demand one. Kentuckians should demand one. If public servants who wear their Christianity as a shield and sword cut down their own children, they deserve nothing but shame. Ex-Jacky's Galaxie employee accuses chain of underpaying workers. What to know. PROVIDENCE A former sushi chef at Jackys Galaxie is suing the restaurant chain, alleging that it systematically and deliberately violated fair labor laws by underpaying its workers. Jingang Gao, who worked at Jackys Galaxie Restaurant & Banquet in North Providence from June 2023 through February 2024, filed a class-action lawsuit on Thursday alleging that the chain failed to pay him minimum wage and overtime during his first six months of employment. He also accuses the company and its owner, Jacky Kin Wah Ko, of violating state employment law by only paying him every four weeks, and of filing fraudulent wage documents with the Internal Revenue Service. He is seeking a court order barring Jackys from engaging in unlawful employment practices, and for unpaid wages and unspecified damages. Ko was not available for comment at the chains North Providence or Providence locations Monday. He did not respond to a message left with a manager about the allegations. Jacky's Galaxie has five Rhode Island locations. Going deeper: Allegations against Jacky's Galaxie According to the complaint, Gao worked at the 1458 Mineral Spring Ave. location in North Providence, but was occasionally required to work at Jackys Waterplace & Sushi Bar on Exchange Street in Providence. The lawsuit details Gaos alleged hours on a given week, ranging from a low of 56 hours to more than 83 hours. From June through Nov. 4, Gao says he was paid $12.50 an hour for the first 40 hours and $18.75 for each hour thereafter, though the minimum hourly wage in Rhode Island at the time was $13, with overtime pay set at $19.50. As of Jan. 1, the state's minimum hourly wage has increased to $14, with overtime set at $21 an hour. Gao accuses the chain of failing to withhold taxes from his pay while filing documents with the government falsely indicating taxes were withheld. Accusations of minimum-wage, overtime violations Gao alleged that, although the chain calculates pay weekly, it distributed checks every four weeks, in violation of a state law requiring employers to establish a regular payday that is posted for all workers to see. Gaos lawyer, Tiffany Troy, of Queens, New York, did not immediately respond to an inquiry Monday. Troy is also involved in a similar case in which former chef Wang Lin is suing the now-closed Thayer Street hibachi business Ayame Hibachi LLC on behalf of himself and other employees, saying the owner violated fair labor laws and failed to pay him overtime. That case remains pending before U.S. District Court Judge William E. Smith. Jackys reached 2016 settlement over similar claims It is not the first time the popular restaurant chain has run into allegations of unpaid labor. In 2016, Jacky's Waterplace & Sushi Bar and its owner, Ko, agreed to pay $567,000 in back wages and damages to 104 employees who were denied minimum wage and overtime pay, the U.S. Department of Labor announced. At the time, the agreement marked the largest in Rhode Island to date stemming from a federal restaurant-focused investigative initiative. The business and Ko had to pay $50,000 in penalties. Investigators found that Ko and his business "violated the minimum wage, overtime and record-keeping requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act." Ko and the business did not admit or deny the violations under settlement terms. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Former Jacky's Galaxie chef sues, saying RI restaurant underpaid him Vsevolod Kniaziev, former chairman of Ukraine's top judicial body and a suspect in a bribery case, was dismissed on Aug. 6 from his post as a judge of the Supreme Court's Cassation Administrative Court. The High Council of Justice justified the decision by "a serious disciplinary offense" on Kniaziev's part. Kniaziev was found guilty in December 2023 of illegally accepting a gift after it was revealed he was renting an apartment in an elite neighborhood in the capital for a mere Hr 1,000 ($25) a month. The High Council of Justice launched a disciplinary case into Kniaziev's conduct over the aforementioned case in April. Kniaziev is also a central figure in another ongoing case. He was detained and dismissed from his position as the head of the Supreme Court in May 2023 after being charged with accepting a $2.7 million bribe to rule in favor of Ukrainian billionaire Kostyantyn Zhevago. The Supreme Court's ex-head was released from detention after paying Hr 18 million bail (around $450,000) in January but remained suspended from administering justice until a final verdict. Read also: Ukraines judicial reform relaunch shows mixed results so far Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Jenna Ellis, who pleaded guilty in the Georgia election interference case, is now cooperating with Arizona officials who are also prosecuting several allies of former President Donald Trump for trying to overturn the 2020 election. Ellis, who worked closely with Trumps personal attorney, Rudy Giuliani, said she would cooperate in exchange for charges being dropped against her in a fake electors case, Arizonas attorney generals office announced Monday. Ellis is one of four people who have pleaded guilty here in Georgia for attempts to try and overturn the 2020 election in which President Joe Biden won the state by nearly 12,000 votes. In October, Ellis pleaded to guilty to one felony count of aiding and abetting false statements and writings. She had previously pleaded not guilty to fraud, forgery and conspiracy charges in the Arizona case. Seventeen other people charged in the case have pleaded not guilty to the felony charges including Giuliani, Trump presidential chief of staff Mark Meadows and 11 Republicans who submitted a document to Congress falsely declaring Trump had won Arizona. Her insights are invaluable and will greatly aid the State in proving its case in court, Attorney General Kris Mayes said in a statement. As I stated when the initial charges were announced, I will not allow American democracy to be undermined it is far too important. Todays announcement is a win for the rule of law. RELATED STORIES: The indictment said Ellis, Giuliani and other associates were at a meeting at the Arizona Legislature on Dec. 1, 2020, with then-House Speaker Rusty Bowers and other Republicans when Giuliani and his team asked the speaker to hold a committee hearing on the election. The cooperation agreement signed by Ellis in the Arizona case requires her to provide truthful information to the Attorney Generals Office and testify honestly in proceedings in any state or federal court. Prosecutors can withdraw from the deal and refile charges if Ellis violates the agreement. Prosecutors have already asked a court to dismiss the Arizona charges against Ellis. It wasnt immediately clear if a judge had yet approved the request. Ellis has been barred from practicing law in Colorado for three years after her guilty plea in Georgia. Trump himself was not charged in the Arizona case but was referred to as an unindicted co-conspirator in the indictment. The Associated Press contributed to this article. RELATED NEWS: Jenna Ellis, a former legal adviser to Donald Trumps 2020 presidential campaign, on Monday reached an agreement with Arizona prosecutors that will see her duck potential jail time. In exchange for her full cooperation, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes will drop nine felony charges against Ellis related to her role in an alleged attempt to subvert President Joe Bidens victory in the state. Ellis is set to provide prosecutors with evidence that could implicate any or all of the 17 co-defendants alongside whom she was indicted in April. That number includes former New York City mayor and onetime personal attorney for Trump, Rudy Giuliani, as well as Trumps former chief of staff, Mark Meadows. It remains unclear what information Ellis might divulge as a part of the agreement, but Mayes said that the agreement represents a significant step forward in our case. Jenna Ellis and Sidney Powell Captured on Tape Spilling to Prosecutors I am grateful to Ms. Ellis for her cooperation with our investigation and prosecution, Mayes wrote in a statement. Her insights are invaluable and will greatly aid the State in proving its case in court. As I stated when the initial charges were announced, I will not allow American democracy to be undermined it is far too important. Ellis pleaded guilty last year to a felony charge in a similar election subversion case in Georgia. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) An Oklahoma City woman is accusing an employee at a Penn Square Mall phone repair shop of sending a private video from her device to his own. The woman, who News 4 is calling Jane to protect her identity, says it happened at The Fix inside Penn Square Mall on Friday. Jane says she took her phone to have her broken screen repaired and gave her cell phone and code to it to an employee, Kayahan Altun, so he could make the repairs. He was the manager, said Jane. He told me that, you know, itd be about 30 minutes. Jane said she went to the food court and worked on her laptop while she waited. While on her laptop, Jane said she received a conversation notification and when she looked at her messages she saw a video had been sent from her phone number she did not recognize. It was a video of me undressed basically, and had been sent to a random phone number, said Jane. I was just so in shock. Jane said the text had been deleted when she picked up her phone, but that the message was still visible on her laptop. She said the video that was sent was in her hidden folder in the photos app on her phone from two years ago. The folder required a pass code that was the same she had given Altun to get into her phone. Local publication suing Oklahoma County District Attorney, claiming violation of Open Records Act I was freaking out because he had obviously been through my photos on my phone, said Jane. He said that it was done, gave it to me to come check out at the counter. I was, I think, in a state of shock to be honest. Obviously this is some kind of sort of crime. I didnt know what kind of crime, but I knew that something needed to be done and I didnt want to cause a scene or do anything that might interfere if the police got involved. Jane said that Altun was calm and composed when giving her phone back to her. He hands me his business card and it has his name and his phone number on it and he says to call or text him if I have any problems with my phone, said Jane. Jane said that after looking at the business card she immediately recognized the uncommon area number, and later confirmed the entirety of the number was the same one the video had been sent to from her phone. She said she doesnt think Altun expected her to figure it out, crediting her devices. Apple, I think its the default setting is for only your iMessages to go to your MacBook, and I had went in like six months ago and changed it to where my text messages also come through my laptop, said Jane. So I dont think the average person would have seen it because it was a text message, not an iMessage. 2 arrested, thousands of marijuana plants seized in Pontotoc Co. A police report says an officer made contact with Altun and called the phone number the message had been sent to. When the officer called the number in front of Altun, the report says Altuns phone rang. Altun was placed under arrest for larceny and computer crimes but posted bond. News 4 reached out to Altun by phone and stopped by his address for comment, but he did not respond. News 4 reached out to The Fix corporate communications for comment, but did not hear back. News 4 also reached out to Penn Square Mall for comment but was told to direct inquiries to local law enforcement. Jane said, in addition to the trauma, fear and embarrassment from the interaction shes concerned there may be other potential victims out there. I can only imagine he probably has other people that hes done this to, said Jane. Considering how bold he was to give me his phone number on a card. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. OSLO, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Some European countries have advised their citizens to leave Lebanon and avoid traveling to the country amid rising regional tensions. "In a highly volatile security context, we once again draw the attention of French nationals, particularly those passing through, to the fact that direct commercial flights with stopovers to France are still available, and we invite them to make their arrangements now to leave Lebanon as soon as possible," the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs said on Sunday. Air France and Transavia France have decided to extend the suspension of their flights to Beirut until at least Thursday. A spokesman for the German Foreign Office repeated an urgent call at the end of last month for all Germans to leave Lebanon. Since then, 500 people have registered on a crisis preparedness list, with a total of 1,800 Germans now listed. In the Netherlands, the Foreign Ministry has issued a red travel alert for Lebanon, advising Dutch nationals to avoid travel to the country. The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also advised Polish citizens against such traveling. Last Friday, Poland's flag carrier LOT announced it had canceled eight flights from Warsaw to Lebanon and Israel, as well as return flights. The Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs on Monday called on Croatian citizens in Lebanon to leave, according to a statement on the social media platform X. The Slovenian Foreign Ministry advised citizens in Lebanon to leave the country, too. Norway and Sweden have also urged their citizens to leave Lebanon while Finland's current travel advisory for Lebanon urges avoiding all travel. US personnel wounded in attack against base in Iraq, officials say FILE PHOTO: Military vehicles of U.S. soldiers are seen at Ain al-Asad air base in Anbar province By Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart WASHINGTON (Reuters) -At least five U.S. personnel were injured in an attack against a military base in Iraq on Monday, U.S. officials told Reuters, as the Middle East braced for a possible new wave of attacks by Iran and its allies following last week's killing of senior members of militant groups Hamas and Hezbollah. Two Katyusha rockets were fired at al Asad airbase in western Iraq, two Iraqi security sources said. One Iraqi security source said the rockets fell inside the base. It was unclear whether the attack was linked to threats by Iran to retaliate over the killing of the Hamas leader. The U.S. officials, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity, said one of the wounded Americans was seriously injured. The casualty count was based on initial reports which could still change, they said. "Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment," one of the officials added. Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, was assassinated in the Iranian capital Tehran last week, an attack that drew threats of revenge by Iran on Israel. Iran blamed Israel for the killing, but Israel has not claimed responsibility. Coupled with the killing of the senior military commander of the Lebanese group Hezbollah, Fuad Shukr, by Israel in a strike on Beirut last week, the killings have fuelled concern the conflict in Gaza was turning into a wider Middle East war. Iran has said the U.S. bears responsibility in the assassination of Haniyeh because of its support for Israel. In a call on Monday, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant agreed that the attack marked "a dangerous escalation," according to a Pentagon readout. Last week the U.S. carried out a strike in Iraq against individuals U.S. officials said were militants getting ready to launch drones and posed a threat to U.S. and coalition forces. The U.S. has been watching to see if Iran would make good on its vow to respond to the killing of Haniyeh two days ago in Tehran, one in a series of killings of senior figures in the Palestinian militant group as the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages. The Pentagon has said it will deploy additional fighter jets and Navy warships to the Middle East, as Washington seeks to bolster defenses following threats from Iran and its allies Hamas and Hezbollah. A rare ally of both the U.S. and Iran, Iraq hosts 2,500 U.S. troops and has Iran-backed militias linked to its security forces. It has witnessed escalating tit-for-tat attacks since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in October. Iraq wants troops from the U.S.-led military coalition to begin withdrawing in September and to formally end the coalition's work by September 2025, Iraqi sources have said, with some U.S. forces likely to remain in a newly negotiated advisory capacity. Baghdad has struggled to reign in Iran-backed armed groups that have attacked U.S. forces there and in neighboring Syria dozens of time since Oct. 7. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken on Sunday. An Iraqi official said Blinken asked Sudani to help decrease regional tensions by helping to convince Iran to temper its response to what it says was an Israeli strike in Tehran that killed the leader of Hamas last week. U.S. Army General Michael "Erik" Kurilla, head of U.S. Central Command, is currently in the Middle East. One of the U.S. officials said Kurilla was speaking with allies to ensure there was coordination in case of an Iranian attack against Israel. (Reporting by Idrees Ali, Phil Stewart,Kamal Ayash and Timour Azhari ; Editing by David Gregorio and Michael Perry) Explosion occurs at military plant in Russia, killing three people An explosion has occurred at the Avangard plant in the Russian city of Sterlitamak in Bashkortostan, killing three people. Source: Russian branch of Radio Liberty Details: The explosion occurred when a repair team was dismantling a pipeline in one of the workshops. All three members of the team were killed. A criminal case has been opened over the deaths for violation of industrial safety rules. The causes of the incident are being investigated. The Russian Investigative Committee believed that the workers had violated safety regulations when cutting the pipes, and the gas-air mixture caught fire. For reference: The Avangard plant belongs to the Russian state-owned Rostec Corporation and fulfils defence orders. It produces parts for multiple-launch rocket systems. The company is subject to sanctions imposed by the European Union, Switzerland and Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! An explosion reported at an Avangard plant in Bashkortostan, Russia, killed three people, RFE/RL reported on Aug. 5. The plant belongs to Rostec, the Russian state-owned arms manufacturer. According to reports, the explosion occurred after a repair crew dismantled a pipeline in one of the workshops. All three crew members died. The Russian Investigative Committee said the workers may have violated safety guidelines when cutting the pipes. The cause of the incident is still being investigated. The plant reportedly produces parts for multiple launch rocket systems. Rostec is currently under EU sanctions. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russian Su-34 jet destroyed in Ukraines strike on Morozovsk airfield, Kyiv says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Explosions ring out in Sumy as Russians launch aerial bombs Explosions were heard in Sumy on the afternoon of 6 August; an air-raid warning was issued in the oblast. It was reported that Russians dropped guided aerial bombs. Source: Suspilne Sumy on Telegram; Ukraines Air Force on Telegram Details: The Air Force had warned about the possibility of ballistic missile attacks coming from the east. An air-raid warning has been issued in eight oblasts of Ukraine. Updated: The Air Force reported the Russians are dropping guided aerial bombs. "Sumy Oblast, remain in shelters! Guided aerial bombs launched," the report said. The Sumy Oblast Military Administration noted that the Russians carried out the missile attack on the infrastructure facilities of Sumy district. According to early reports, there were no casualties, and all services were working at the scene. The consequences of the attack are being established. Support UP or become our patron! Claim: In August 2024, Harley-Davidson's sales dropped more than 40% after the company announced DEI initiatives. Rating: Rating: Labeled Satire In August 2024, a rumor spread online that Harley-Davidson sales plummeted 40% after the motorcycle company announced diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. For example, the Facebook account America's Last Line Of Defense published a post that read: Go woke go broke even applies to you, Harley Davidson. So many bikes went up for sale this week that the market crumbled on new models.That's how the people roll. (America's Last Line Of Defense) Some readers seemed to interpret rumor as a factual recounting of real-life events. "Of all the companies to go woke this is a shame," one Facebook user wrote. While outlets have factually reported on the conservative-led boycott of Harley-Davidson, there was no evidence of sales dropping 40% as a result of any DEI efforts. Rather, the rumor about Harley-Davidson sales dropping originated with The Dunning-Kruger Times a website that describes its output as being humorous or satirical in nature. Its About Page states: Dunning-Kruger-Times.com is a subsidiary of the "America's Last Line of Defense" network of parody, satire, and tomfoolery, or as Snopes called it before they lost their war on satire: Junk News Everything on this website is fiction. It is not a lie and it is not fake news because it is not real. If you believe that it is real, you should have your head examined. Any similarities between this site's pure fantasy and actual people, places, and events are purely coincidental and all images should be considered altered and satirical. See above if you're still having an issue with that satire thing. The fictional story spread as Harley-Davidson's CEO, Jochen Zeitz, has come under fire for supporting policies on trans care for children, critical race theory, climate change and diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. The Dunning-Kruger Times has a history of making up stories for shares and comments. Snopes has addressed similar satirical claims stemming from The Dunning-Kruger Times in the past, including the assertion that Netflix stock plunged after $7 million donation to Harris campaign and a rumor that Stephen King's publisher dropped him for "pushing wokeness." For background, here is why we alert readers to rumors created by sources that call their output humorous or satirical. Sources: 'About Us'. Dunning-Kruger-Times.Com, 1 Aug. 2022, https://dunning-kruger-times.com/about-us/. Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/ALLODSatire/posts/pfbid0CtdRBCZk76A5C4fioNw5pEBPHQk2gqhBfH6d2mdh2QC2hrNzSCaYNhoP35YYw7Mdl. Accessed 5 Aug. 2024. Koenig, Melissa. 'Furious Bikers Turn on Harley Davidson Boss for "Going Woke"'. Mail Online, 5 Aug. 2024, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13708493/Bikers-turn-Harley-Davidson-boss-woke.html. Claim: A picture shows a park ranger taking a selfie with two gorillas he was protecting. Rating: Rating: True A popular photo of gorillas and park rangers posing for a selfie saw renewed attention in August 2024 when the X account Creepy.org shared it, asking whether gorillas were "really this friendly with humans?" The photo authentically shows friendly human-gorilla relations, but it is important to note that these are not ordinary gorillas. They are orphans who have been raised with humans since infancy. In April 2019, Mathieu Shamavu, a ranger at Virunga National Park in eastern Congo, took a photo of himself with two orphaned gorillas under his care: The picture was wildly popular and went viral shortly after it was posted to social media. It has periodically gone viral several times since then, including in an April 2021 Reddit thread titled "Anti-poacher takes selfie with gorillas they are protecting." This is an accurate description of the photo. As reported by The Associated Press in 2019, Shamavu "said he was checking his phone when he noticed two female orphaned gorillas, Ndakazi and Ndeze, mimicking his movements, so he took a picture with them." According to Virunga National Park, these "gorilla gals are always acting cheeky so this was the perfect shot of their true personalities!" The two gorillas were orphaned by the actions of poachers, Shamavu explained, which is a persistent threat in the Virunga region. In May 2020, rumors circulated that Shamavu and the two gorillas pictured were killed by poachers. While an attack in April 2020 did take the lives of several rangers, the park confirmed to Reuters that neither Shamavu nor the two gorillas he was pictured with were victims of this attack. Because the photo is real and accurately described, the claim is "True." Sources: "Congo Park Ranger Tells of Taking Viral Selfie with Gorillas." Yahoo News, 25 Apr. 2019, https://sg.news.yahoo.com/congo-park-ranger-tells-taking-182039200.html. virungaorg. "Armed Attack - Updated Statement." Virunga National Park, 24 Apr. 2020, https://virunga.org/news/updated-statement-from-virunga-national-park-on-recent-attack/. "You Might Have Recently Seen Caretakers Mathieu and Patrick's Amazing Selfie with Female Orphaned Gorillas Ndakazi and Ndeze inside the Senkwekwe Center at Virunga National Park." Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/virunga/posts/10157037198360782. Accessed 2 Aug. 2024. Claim: U.S. Vice President and 2024 presidential candidate Kamala Harris once explained cloud storage thus: "It's on your laptop, and it's then therefore up here in this cloud, that exists above us, right? It's no longer in a physical place." Rating: Rating: Correct Attribution Context: Harris made the remark during a speech in 2010 to illustrate the evolving legal scope of the concept of "privacy" to encompass wholly digital possessions as well as physical ones. In early August 2024, social media users shared a video in which U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris ventured an explanation of how cloud storage works, purportedly saying: "It's on your laptop, and it's then therefore up here in this cloud, that exists above us, right? It's no longer in a physical place." One such post received more than 12 million views and 79,000 likes, as of this writing. Kamala Harris thinks 'the cloud' literally 'exists above us': "No longer are you keeping those private files in some file cabinet. It's on your laptop, and it's then therefore up here in this cloud, that exists above us. It's no longer in a physical place." There are physical pic.twitter.com/6onsTkyttS Eric Abbenante (@EricAbbenante) August 3, 2024 We received multiple messages from readers asking us to verify the authenticity of the video. "There is a video supposedly showing Kamala Harris explaining cloud storage. Is this real?" One wrote. "It is being portrayed as recent, when it is extremely obvious that she is a lot younger looking and sounding," another message read. The video is authentic, though it was taken many years earlier, during a 2010 event hosted by Google. Many accounts that shared the clip in mid-2024 wrongly implied that it was a recent video. The clip in question begins at minute 33:58 of the full video below. The event was a part of a lecture series called "Talks at Google" which is still active, as of this writing and took place on Sept. 14, 2010. While the viral clip is only about 20 seconds long, the original video was just over an hour long. At the time of the interview, Harris was serving as the district attorney of San Francisco and running for the office of attorney general of California. Harris made the remark to illustrate how the legal scope of "privacy" was evolving since the advent of the internet. When asked about her approach to regulating or enforcing online privacy without "stifling innovation," she responded that because Fourth Amendment laws were developed literally around the structure of a house, "we have to lawyers, judges, government realize that times are changing, and we're gonna have to figure out a way to adapt." The transcript of the relevant section of her response is as follows: As a lawyer, you know, we all know the Constitution of the United States has a Fourth Amendment and that is the law that surrounds what is reasonable and unreasonable search and seizure. And so underlying any analysis about what would be a reasonable or unreasonable taking of your stuff by government or anybody else is the concept of what is a reasonable expectation of privacy. So the laws that have been written and are on the books to deal with this issue of privacy are laws that developed primarily and this gets back to 20th century versus the 21st century world, right, the laws are still very much grounded in the 20th century and before. So the laws that came up around privacy were developed around literally the structure of a house. Well what can you see from the street if you were looking through the window of that house? Versus what you would be able to see or take if you opened the door of that house, versus what right? What is your reason, versus what you're doing in the front yard of that house? And so what expectation of privacy do you attach to whatever is placed in that particular place as it relates to that house? So given where we are now, so no longer are you necessarily keeping those private files in some file cabinet that's locked in the basement of the house. It's on your laptop, and it's then therefore up here in this cloud that exists above us, right? It's no longer in a physical place. And so we have to lawyers, judges, government realize that times are changing and we're gonna have to figure out a way to adapt. And adapt to the realities of where we are. At the time, public understanding of "the cloud" was in its early stages, as evidenced by Google Trends results of the phrase within the category "Internet & Telecom" spanning from 2004 to present. (Google Trends) In sum, because the clip is authentic meaning it is not AI-generated and genuinely originated from a 2010 interview with Google we have rated the claim as "Correct Attribution." Sources: Talks at Google. First Woman District Attorney | Kamala Harris | Talks at Google. 2010. YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJllQ9d3pYM. This fall, make the right choices for the Oak Ridge Board of Education (EDITOR'S NOTE: Longtime Oak Ridge Board of Education members Keys Fillauer and Angi Agle are not seeking reelection in the Nov. 5 Oak Ridge City Election.) After 54 years in public education 31 years as a teacher and coach at Robertsville Junior High and Oak Ridge High School, and 23 years as a member of the Oak Ridge Board of Education I have decided it is time to pass the torch. I will not be seeking reelection in the upcoming November election. The opportunities I have had to represent the Oak Ridge Schools and serve as Tennessee School Boards Association president have given me a unique perspective about what quality education is. I can say without question, public education in Oak Ridge is among the best in the state and across the nation. Keyes Fillauer I am grateful to those who came before me and had the vision to establish the quality school system that exists today. I am thankful for the many board members I have met across the state and the insights I gained from each of them. The three superintendents I have worked with, Dr. Tom Bailey, Dr. Bob Smallridge and our current superintendent, Dr. Bruce Borchers, have provided the leadership and vision to create excellence in our school system. To the members of the Board that I have served with Tracy Larabee, Paige Marshall, John Smith, Ann McNees, Dan DiGregorio, Bob Eby, Ben Stephens, Jenny Richter and my current Board members, Laura McLean, Heather Hartman, Erin Webb and Angi Agle I greatly appreciate your dedication and our shared goal of doing what is best for students. The Oak Ridge Board of Education: seated, Angi Agle, from left, Keys Fillauer and Laura McLean; standing, Erin Webb, left, and Heather Hartman. To all the principals, teachers, central office, maintenance and custodial staff members, bus drivers, cafeteria workers and every employee who has contributed to the Oak Ridge Schools, you are an incredible team whose care for each student can never be questioned. A special thank you to Alan Tatum, who served as treasurer for many of my campaigns, and the countless volunteers who contributed time and financial donations toward my reelections. I am humbled by the support of the voters who had the confidence in me to serve on the board of education, term after term. And of course, I could not have done this without the unwavering support of my wife, Melanie, and son, Parks. I cannot thank them enough. This fall, our community will be electing two new members of the Board of Education and I hope youll allow me to share with you, the voters, my thoughts on making the right decision a decision that will elect two individuals charged with continuing the tradition of excellence and the governance needed to keep Oak Ridge Schools moving forward. Unfortunately, while political representation has become a part of school board elections, it is my strong belief that a political party should not be a part of deciding who the best candidates are. I offer you my checklist for successful candidates: Their only agenda is to do what is best for all students. They are willing to listen and learn. Their political party representation is not a prerequisite. They are committed to Public Education. They are willing to be a visible member of the community. They can maintain strong working relationship with the superintendent. They are committed to growth. They can maintain a working relationship with City Council. They have a vision for the future. They are willing to work collaboratively with the Board to move forward as one. They possess a willingness to think outside of the box. Above all, I urge you to cast your vote. The school board election is an important step to ensure our school district continues to excel and provide opportunities for all students to be successful. A successful school system is integral to a growing and vibrant community. Thank you for the opportunity to serve. It has been an honor to represent the Oak Ridge Schools and the city of Oak Ridge. Keys Fillauer is chair of the Oak Ridge Board of Education and past president of the TSBA. Oak Ridge School's Superintendent Bruce Borchers speaks at the Oak Ridge Preschool's ribbon cutting ceremony with School Board Chairman Keys Fillauer looking on. This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Make the right choices for the Oak Ridge Board of Education Dont make Donald Trump angry. You wont like him when hes angry. Fascinated by violence, the former president has threatened imprisonment and death on his political enemies and others who he believes have wronged him. He is increasingly channeling Adolf Hitler and the Nazis with promises and threats to purify the blood of the nation by eliminating the human vermin once he takes power in 2025 and becomes Americas first dictator. Trumps many negative personality traits are exacerbated by his authoritarianism and social dominance orientation, and what appears to be a hypermanic personality, egomania, and God complex. Trump is a charismatic leader and de facto political cult leader who gives his followers permission to engage in the worst of human behavior. Trumps followers are attracted to him because of his negative behavior and personality and not despite it. Donald Trump is especially hostile to (if not hates) anyone who dares to disagree with him, tell him no, oppose him, or otherwise not give him the validation and narcissistic fuel he desperately craves. In a new book, his own great nephew, Fred Trump III, describes him as atomic crazy. His niece, Mary Trump, who is a trained mental health professional, has repeatedly sounded the alarm about what she believes is his profound mental and emotional unwellness and dangerousness to society. Examples of such behavior by Donald Trump include his late-night rage posts on his Truth Social disinformation platform. Jan 6 coup attempt and the lethal attack on the Capitol by his MAGA cultists, is perhaps the clearest manifestation of the types of violence and chaos Trump unleashes when he does not get his way. Trump is also continuing to amplify the Big Lie that he did not lose the 2020 Election. Trump has repeatedly made it clear he will reject the results, which will include violence, mayhem, and a bloodbath (these are Trumps own words) if he does not win the upcoming election. In a series of recent interviews, Donald Trump has stated that when/if he takes power there will no longer be a need to vote. As historians and other experts have highlighted, this is how authoritarians consolidate power and crush dissent. After surviving the recent attempt on his life, Trump promised America and the world that he was a changed man who only wants unity and to be a nicer person. That was never true. Trump almost immediately disregarded that promise and returned to his general vileness. At a recent rally in Minnesota, Trump embraced his bad behavior and foul temperament, telling his cheering followers that he is a bad man: I want to be nice. They all say, I think hes changed. I think hes changed since two weeks ago. Something affected him. No, I havent changed. Maybe Ive gotten worse. Because I get angry at the incompetence that I witness every single day. But Trumps hostility is not universal and equal: he has repeatedly shown himself to be a racist, a white supremacist, and a misogynist. As such, Donald Trump has a large amount of animus and general hostility towards women and non-white people who he views as not being suitably compliant, validating, and deferent. Ultimately, Donald Trump is a champion of white identity politics and the revanchist project to end multiracial democracy. Public opinion polls and other research have consistently shown that Trumps MAGA followers and other Republican and conservative voters generally support that agenda. In an example of the types of white racial paranoiac thinking that drive such beliefs in white oppression and reverse racism, Donald Trump recently told Time magazine that white people are the real victims of racism in American. No evidence exists to support such a claim. It is delusional. A compelling argument can be made that Donald Trumps decision to run for president in 2016, was in part fueled by his anger at President Barack Obama who mocked him for his bigoted and racist Birther conspiracy theory at the 2011 White House Correspondents Dinner. For years, Donald Trump has made misogynistic and hostile sexist attacks against Hillary Clinton, Nancy Pelosi, and of course Stormy Daniels and E. Jean Carroll. A court of law concluded that Trump sexually assaulted E. Jean Carroll. Social scientists and other experts have shown that hostile sexism and misogyny drive support for Donald Trump and the MAGA movement and the larger neofascist project. Donald Trump, a convicted felon, has raged at the Black and women prosecutors, attorneys, district attorneys, and others who have attempted to hold him responsible under the law for his decades-long public crime spree. For example, Donald Trump has slurred these members of law enforcement and the courts as being thugs, among other racially charged invective. In a 2023 essay, I detailed how: Trump has been transparent and direct with such feelings of angst and rage and white entitlement. Trump has attacked the black women (and black men) who are attempting to hold him accountable under the law with thinly coded racial slurs such as thugs and criminals and saying they are corrupt. Trump went so far as to attack prosecutor Letitia James as a racist monster. In his white rage temper tantrums, Trump has repeatedly claimed that he, a rich white man, is a victim of racism because he is finally being held accountable for his decades-long public crime spree. By comparison, Donald Trump is very pleased that Judge Aileen Cannon, a white woman who he appointed to the court, appears to be following his directives in how she is presiding so favorably to the consternation of legal experts and the Department of Justice over the classified documents case in Florida. For Trump, and others who share his regressive worldview about race and gender, that is as it should be. Given his demonstrated hostility towards black people and women, I have no doubt about the racist and misogynistic words and thoughts those two or three vile and hateful words that Trump is in all probability repeating over and over again inside of his head. Vice President Kamala Harris is now the Democratic Partys presumptive nominee. As a Black South Asian woman her ascendance is historic. The amount of rage, vitriol, and hatred that Donald Trump and his agents will be directing toward Harris because of her personhood and politics will be extreme. Because Trump is an enemy of democracy and rule of law, he will be even more provoked by Vice President Harris background. Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. Ultimately, Donald Trump and his movement are fueled by white rageand such rage can become all-consuming and destructive. White rage often has a blowback effect as well because it allows white elites to enact policies that hurt the average white person in America as well. President Johnson explained this reality as follows: "If you can convince the lowest white man he's better than the best colored man, he won't notice you're picking his pocket. Hell, give him somebody to look down on, and he'll empty his pockets for you." In her 2016 book, historian Carol Anderson said this about white rage: It is not the mere presence of black people that is the problem; rather, it is blackness with ambition, with drive, with purpose, with aspirations, and with demands for full and equal citizenship. It is blackness that refuses to accept subjugation, to give up. A formidable array of policy assaults and legal contortions has consistently punished black resilience, black resolve. And all the while, white rage manages to maintain not only the upper hand but also, apparently, the moral high ground. Its Giuliani chastising black people to fix the problems in their own neighborhoods instead of always scapegoating the police. Its the endless narratives about a culture of black poverty that devalues education, hard work, family, and ambition. Black America knows this danger. Many of us are prepared for it. Too many white Americans (and people of color who are invested in whiteness) will be surprised. But that surprise will be more performative than sincere, the frontstage of race and the color line in America versus the backstage. Vice President Harris and the Democrats and other pro-democracy Americans will have to overcome Trumpism and its white rage politics (and inherent violence) on Election Day and beyond if the countrys democratic culture is to be healed and renewed. Nearly $30K raised for fallen officers families after April standoff in east Charlotte Nearly $30K raised for fallen officers families after April standoff in east Charlotte CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) The families of the four slain law enforcement officers killed in the devastating April 2024 shooting in east Charlotte were gifted with a fundraising check. MORE: DA rules 23 officers who fired shots in Shannon Park shooting were justified The fundraiser was spearheaded by the Charlotte Police Foundation and McDonalds, and raised $28,000 for those families. CMPD Officer Joshua Eyer, Deputy U.S. Marshal Thomas Weeks, and two members of the North Carolina Department of Adult Corrections, Sam Poloche, and William Elliott, were tragically killed in the April shootout when a U.S. Marshals Task Force Unit attempted to serve a warrant on Terry Hughes, Jr. The suspect was shot and killed by authorities at the scene. This morning, representatives of local @McDonalds restaurants presented a check to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Foundation in support of the families of fallen officers on April 29. We are grateful for their continued support of our local law enforcement community and CMPD. pic.twitter.com/vj4Gj3IgYz CMPD News (@CMPD) August 6, 2024 We are grateful for their continued support of our local law enforcement community and CMPD, the department said in a social media post following the event. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. MOSCOW, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Russia's tax revenues increased by 31 percent year-on-year in the first six months of 2024, reaching almost 27 trillion rubles (about 315 billion U.S. dollars), head of the Federal Tax Service of Russia (FTS) Daniil Egorov said on Tuesday. "There is a growth of 31 percent, which is 6.4 trillion rubles (around 75 billion U.S. dollars) in absolute figures," Egorov said at a meeting with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, adding that consolidated tax budget revenues increased by 28.4 percent. Oil and gas revenues rose by 43.4 percent in the first half of 2024, or 3.7 trillion rubles (around 43.1 billion U.S. dollars), he noted. "We predict that the budget will be fulfilled by the end of the year. We do not see any significant problems here," he added. Florida A&M University Board of Trustees Chair Kristin Harper has shared a statement with the FAMU community responding to the investigation report that recently classified a donor's purported $237 million gift as "fraudulent." As fiduciaries of this great institution, we don't take this lightly, Harper said on behalf of the board in the Tuesday letter, which was emailed to the university's students, faculty, staff and alumni. Trustees will discuss the report, including its detailed findings and recommendations, during a board meeting on Thursday, Aug. 8. We will not be speaking about the next steps, individually or collectively, prior to that meeting. More: Dubious $237 million donation to FAMU is fraudulent, investigation's final report says Her statement comes a day after the final report was released following an investigation that was completed by law firm Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney, which looked into Texas hemp farmer Gregory Geramis gift to FAMU to determine what happened and to recommend corrective actions. According to the report, the investigation found the major donation to be fraudulent and the valuation performed by Mr. Gerami to be baseless. It also lays out how the university "improperly handled" the gift during its private vetting process. Harper and the rest of the board were not included in the inner circle that knew about the details of the purported gift. But at the same time, Harper did sign the gift agreement and was featured in the promotion of the donation on the university's social media page. "I should have never been put on the spot or used for a convenient photo or video op for a gift that I knew nothing about," Harper said at the time. According to the report, "former President Robinsons lack of trust in the university's senior leadership team and the university Board of Trustees ability to maintain confidentiality and not leak information about the donor to the media led to a perceived need to prioritize secrecy." Robinson, Friday-Stroud, Gregory Gerami, Chair Harper and Provost Watson. Florida A&M celebrates its Spring 2024 Commencement with guest speaker Mr Gregory Gerami, founder of Batterson Farms Corp. Harper's Tuesday statement says board members are currently reviewing the detailed, 176-page report. FAMUs trustees will meet virtually to discuss the gifts investigation report at 11 a.m. Thursday during a previously scheduled retreat, which will be held via Zoom both Wednesday and Thursday and is open to the public. In addition, while meeting Wednesday, the trustees will discuss the universitys presidential transition, search and selection as well as licensure passage rates, performance-based funding and an accountability plan, according to the boards meeting agenda. In the meantime, with a powerful tropical storm that has made landfall in Florida and as the Tallahassee campus resumes normal operations, know that we appreciate your interest in these matters as we welcome Interim President Dr. Timothy Beard to campus, Harper said in the statement. This embedded content is not available in your region. Contact Tarah Jean at tjean@tallahassee.com or follow her on X: @tarahjean_. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Florida A&M Board chair reacts to donation investigation report A fast-moving wildfire burned through a hillside community in San Bernardino on Monday afternoon, sending residents running and engulfing homes with black smoke and rippling, sky-high flames. The Edgehill fire erupted in the 3300 block of Beverly Drive on Little Mountain about 2:40 p.m., according to San Bernardino County fire officials, who called for 10 additional engines immediately when they arrived, and reported at the time that the fire had already burned five acres. Early reports said the fire grew to at least 100 acres. By about 6 p.m., county officials said that the forward progress of the fire had been stopped, and that the blaze was holding at 54 acres with 25% contained. "At this point the fire is very much under control," according to a statement late Monday evening from the San Bernardino Police Department, which has been working closely with county fire officials. Arson investigators are still assessing the scene to determine how the fire started. One person was detained for a few hours but has since been released, according to the police. Dramatic videos from the scene show at least three homes consumed by fire, with residents rushing to leave their burning properties amid blackened, smoke-filled skies. One video circulating on social media shows a man hurrying as quickly as possible while cradling a large turkey that he had presumably saved from the raging fire. Homeowner Martin Schneider uses a pail to throw water on the burning ground behind his house in San Bernardino on Monday. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times) Directly downwind of the burning homes, more than eight neighbors scrambled to help Martin and Sandra Schneider save their home from flying embers. They could see the homes above them on the ridge completely aflame, and using whatever they could garden hoses, rakes, buckets of water they helped the Schneiders buy time while firefighters uphill called for additional backup. "Im grateful for the community coming together," Sandra Schneider said. "They were true heroes until the Fire Department came." Read more: Triple-digit heat wave continues to broil Southern California Temperatures in San Bernardino soared to more than 100 degrees on Monday. The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning for the area until 11 p.m. Tuesday, saying conditions would be dangerously hot, with the thermometer expected to reach 110 degrees. Evacuation orders were issued to all residents south of Ridge Line Drive and north of Edgehill Road, west to and including Beverly Drive, and east to Circle Road. As of 9 p.m. Monday, authorities said the evacuation orders would remain in effect. The Red Cross has set up an evacuation center and is providing overnight shelter at Cajon High School, at 1200 W. Hill Drive, for anyone affected by the fire. A resident uses a garden hose to help save a house on West Edgehill Road in San Bernardino on Monday afternoon. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times) Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. David Hogbin had three sons with his wife, Jane A hero doctor whose body was found inside a crocodile saved his wife before being eaten, it was revealed on Tuesday. Dr David Hogbins wife Jane said the wonderful father of threes last act had been to let go of her hand so she was not pulled into the Annan River, in Australias Far North Queensland, where the 16ft crocodile lay in wait. David touched so many peoples lives that everyone deserves to know who he was and how it all ended for him, said Mrs Hogbin. I want to put a face to this tragedy. Someone didnt just get killed by a crocodile we have lost a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, friend and doctor. Dave was just the most calming, grounding person to have around in a crisis, and he was so loving, thoughtful, handsome, fiercely loyal and protective, and intelligent. Dr David Hogbin was killed by a crocodile after falling into a river On Tuesday, police confirmed that rangers had killed a male saltwater crocodile found two miles from where the 40-year-old disappeared in Cooktown on Saturday. Human remains were found inside the animal. Dr Hogbins parents Kym and Peter, and siblings Chris, Mike and Bec, said they would make sure his children knew how brave he was he was a hero. He and his wife had been enjoying a caravan trip with their three young sons when everything just changed within 30 seconds, as part of a walking trail collapsed. The riverbank was five metres high well out of a crocodiles striking range, said his sister-in-law, Alexis Carey, but Dr Hogbin lost his footing and fell into the water at a spot known locally as Crocodile Bend. Despite being tall, strong and fit the slippery and steep conditions made it impossible for him to get himself out of the water, said Ms Carey. But Jane was nearby, and after hearing the splash, she slid down to desperately try and pull Dave out, she said. Due to the steepness and slipperiness of the bank, she was able to grab his arm, but soon began slipping into the river herself. Daves final, decisive act was to let go of Janes arm when he realised she was falling in, despite knowing she was his only lifeline. Within moments, he was taken. Mr Hogbin's wife described him as a 'wonderful' husband and father The family said Dr Hogbins brave decision in that terrifying moment very likely saved his wifes life, ensuring she was able to return to their boys. He saved me his last act was to not pull me in with him, said Mrs Hogbin. The family corrected earlier reports that Dr Hogbin had been fishing at the time of his death, stressing that he was cautious by nature and acutely aware of the dangers posed by crocodiles. It followed media reports that authorities were investigating a video showing people illegally throwing off-cuts of fish to feed a crocodile seen in that area of the river. Three people have died in crocodile attacks in Australia this year, including a young girl killed while swimming in the Northern Territory and a teenage boy killed while swimming in Queensland. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) Friends of a 29-year-old Missouri man are raising money for his family after he was killed in Panama City Beach Friday night. The family was vacationing here at the time of the tragedy. Not only are they grieving their loss, but also seeking justice. This wasnt Thomas and Makenzie Lyons first visit to Panama City Beach. The couple was married here in the area last year and returned last week to celebrate their first wedding anniversary. They also just found out Makenzie was pregnant. But all their joy turned to sorrow Friday night when Thomas was killed. Panama City Beach man arrested for hitting a pedestrian while under the influence The family was crossing Front Beach Road around 9:00 p.m. when a speeding car approached them. Thomas pushed his children and nephew out of the way just moments before the car hit him. He gave his life to save the kids. I dont know that were ever over this trauma, the gut-wrenching trauma. And I think the main thing is to realize that we witnessed this. It wasnt just like this guy was drinking and driving. And he told us to come in a car, Thomas was standing on the side of the road, and we all witnessed and saw with our own eyes him get smashed by a car going 80 miles per hour, victims mother Shawna Witt said. The man driving the car was 39-year-old Casey Rattan from Panama City Beach. Florida Highway Patrol troopers believe he was driving under the influence of alcohol. He was charged with DUI homicide and vehicular manslaughter. We are looking at contributing factors that are coupled with the alcohol. We believe speed may be a limiting factor, but we want to confirm that with our investigative techniques before we just outright say speed is a factor. So those are many things were working on to definitely come to a full conclusion. Hopefully, well know more in a few months when we close out this case for sure, Highway Patrol Trooper Jason King said. A judge set Rattans bond at $250,000. He posted bond Saturday and was released, which has infuriated the Lyon family. Furious. He was out walking free before we even made it halfway home to Missouri. And my daughter had to travel back from ours with her husband and father to her children. And she had to call his parents and tell them, and we will be seeking justice for Thomas and every avenue possible. We will not absolutely will not stop, Witt said. The goal for the GoFundMe set up to help Makenzie Lyon take care of her family was $9,000. Donations have already surpassed that amount and now sitting at $26,000. You can find a link to the GoFundMe here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. The FBI on Friday took possession of U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles cell phone as part of an investigation he believed concerned his campaign finance filings, the freshman congressman said in a social media post Tuesday afternoon. It has been widely reported for months that my campaign made mistakes in our initial financial filings, Ogles said in the post made to X, formerly known as Twitter. We have worked diligently with attorneys and reporting experts to correct the errors and ensure compliance going forward. It is my understanding that they are investigating the same well-known facts surrounding these filings." Ogles' phone was taken one day after he survived a primary election challenge last week. The congressman faces ongoing scrutiny over his federal campaign finance filings, and personal finance disclosures. Ogles is seeking re-election in Tennessee's 5th Congressional district this year, with former President Donald Trump's endorsement. Ogles defeated a well-funded primary challenge from Republican Courtney Johnston on Thursday evening, who challenged Ogles' integrity and first-term record. U.S. Department of Justice typically does not take overt investigative action against political candidates that could influence how people vote within 60 days of an election. Elizabeth Clement-Webb, a spokesperson for the FBI's Memphis Field Office declined to confirm or deny the search, pursuant to U.S. Department of Justice policy. Mark Wildasin, spokesperson for the U.S. District Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Tennessee, declined to confirm or deny the existence of a search warrant. Ogles' congressional office did not respond to a request for comment. His chief of staff directed The Tennessean to Ogles social media post. U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles addresses his supporters after winning the Republican nomination for a second term at an election night returns party at Ludlow & Prime in Franklin, Tenn., Thursday night, Aug. 1, 2024. Channel 5 reported earlier Tuesday that the FBI executed a search warrant on Ogles but did not specify where the search occurred nor what was searched. For more than two years, Ogles has faced scrutiny and multiple complaints over his federal campaign finance disclosures. Shortly before the primary in 2022, an Federal Election Commission complaint was filed against him alleging a "pattern of malfeasance" in Ogles' financial dealings. Ogles' attorney responded to a request for comment with a threat of legal action. He's also had to deal with chronic problems stemming from his campaign finance disclosures. He was required to pay $5,750 in civil penalties for campaign finance violations after the 2022 cycle, the Nashville Scene first reported. He recently admitted that a self-loan of $320,000 that he had reported as cash to the FEC for two years was in fact a pledge for funding for which the need never arose. "We set money aside. It was in a joint account, which you can't do we know that now so technically we have to go back and say the campaign didn't have full control," Ogles said. "But that being said when my wife and I and decided that I was going to run for Congress, we set aside every penny we had to put into the race." Ogles' personal finance disclosures do not reflect a savings or checking account under Ogles' control with the amount he said he made available to his campaign. But his disclosure does include a mortgage loan initiated in January 2022 in the corresponding amount range. Maury County property records do not reflect any property purchase in January 2022 by Ogles. But he did buy a house adjacent to his family home in September, just after winning the primary. He later sold that home to his Congressional district director at a $60,000 loss. "That money was real, it existed, and it was ready to be used. Fortunately, we didn't have to use it," Ogles said during a recent radio interview. "That was money that we had saved over time being frugal. It was a big commitment. We went all in. ... We really felt that this was a God thing." Ogles has said publicly that he hired an outside campaign finance compliance consultant to go back "with a fine-toothed comb" and fix mistakes reported to the FEC. In his social media post on Tuesday, Ogles said he would cooperate with the FBI and the FEC. "I am confident all involved will conclude that the reporting discrepancies were based on honest mistakes, and nothing more," he wrote. Ogles is also currently facing an ethics complaint filed by the Campaign Legal Center in January requesting an investigation into discrepancies in the congressman's financial disclosures, including the personal loan of $320,000. Campaign Legal Center Ethics Director Kedric Payne on Tuesday said the watchdog group expected a possible FBI investigation since Ogles had significant discrepancies in his financial reports, but the swift action is surprising. Payne, a former deputy chief counsel for the Office of Congressional Ethics, said such investigations usually take much longer. With a move this quickly, the evidence must be strong, especially to move in an election year, he said. "It looks like what we complained about is the tip of the iceberg of what may be going on. It looks very serous." Ogles has also admitted that he was "mistaken" about what degree he received from Middle Tennessee State University, after scrutiny that he embellished his credentials and work experience during the 2022 primary. Staff writer Kelly Puente contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: FBI confiscates Rep. Andy Ogles' phone amid campaign finance issues EYEWITNESS NEWS (WBRE/WYOU) The Department of Federal Bureau of Investigation released that they are looking for a man for the alleged rape of an eight-year-old. According to the FBI, 21-year-old Nehemiah Bille JLen Garcia is wanted for his involvement in the alleged rape of an eight-year-old. FBI The release states on June 13, the victim was lured into the showers at the YMCA Handby Outdoor Center in Wilmington, Delaware where the victim was held against their will and raped by Garcia. Driver wanted after alleged hit-and-run injures 13-year-old Officials note on June 26 the Justice of the Peace Court in the state of Delaware issued a warrant for Garcia on two counts of rape in the first degree and two counts of dangerous crime against a minor under 14. On July 29 a federal warrant was issued for Garcia, officials add. The FBI states Garcia has ties to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Cape Coral, Florida. There is an up to 5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Garcia. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com. FBI offering up to $5K for info leading to arrest of man charged with raping child at Delaware YMCA Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct the FBI's misspelling of Hanby Outdoor Center. The FBI is offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of 21-year-old Nehemiah Garcia, who was charged with raping a child at the YMCA Hanby Outdoor Center in Brandywine Hundred in June. Garcia lured an 8-year-old into the showers of the center on June 13, according to the FBI. He then held the child against their will and raped them, the FBI said. Garcia was charged with two counts of first-degree rape and two counts of dangerous crimes against a minor under 14. Nehemiah Garcia was charged with raping a child at the YMCA Handby Outdoor Center in Brandywine Hundred in June. A warrant was issued for Garcia's arrest on June 26 and, after he couldn't be found by police, he was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. Delaware District Court then issued a federal warrant for Garcia's arrest on June 29, the FBI said. The FBI released a photo of Garcia, who is described as a Black man, 5 feet 9 inches tall, with black hair and brown eyes, in hopes of helping the public recognize and locate him. Garcia was born in Florida, according to the FBI, and has ties to Philadelphia and Cape Coral, Florida. BREAKING NEWS: Woman who was shot by police after shooting ex-lover sentenced to decades in prison Anyone with information on Garcia's location is asked to call the FBI at (800) 225-5324 or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. Send story tips or ideas to Hannah Edelman at hedelman@delawareonline.com. For more reporting, follow them on X at @h_edelman. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: FBI offering reward for info on Delaware man charged with raping child The FBI executed a search warrant against Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) last Friday, the congressman confirmed after a local news report highlighted the investigation. Ogles, who has been facing scrutiny over his campaign finances for months, said in a post on X that the FBI took possession of my cell phone. News Channel 5 Investigates, the same Nashville area local program that first reported the FBI search, began reporting last year about discrepancies in Ogles financial disclosure formsincluding a $320,000 personal loan he allegedly gave his campaign. Ogles finally admitted the loan was not real in May, amending his disclosure forms to confirm he only transferred $20,000 to his campaign. The $320,000 figure was included on his disclosure forms as a mistake. According to the Tennessee representative, the FBI search last week was related to the alleged $320,000 personal loan. It is my understanding that they are investigating the same well-known facts surrounding these filings, Ogles said in a statement on X. I am confident that all involved will conclude that the reporting discrepancies were based on honest mistakes, and nothing more. Although few details about the investigation have been released, sources told News Channel 5 Investigates that the FBI may have searched his electronic devices. Local law enforcement sources and neighbors said they saw no commotion at Ogles home in Maury County. Representatives for Ogles did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the Daily Beast. Ogles attorney did not confirm or deny the search warrant after being contacted by News Channel 5. Ogles was first elected to the House in 2022, but questions have since dogged the freshman congressman about his finances and resume. Since his election, Ogles has positioned himself as a close ally of former President Donald Trump, even filing articles of impeachment against Vice President Kamala Harris shortly after she declared her candidacy for president. A complaint filed by the independent watchdog Office of Congressional Ethics compared him to former New York Rep. George Santos, who was expelled from Congress with over 23 fraud related charges, including stealing public money and wire fraud. The Tennessee congressman cruised to a primary election victory last week over a well-funded challenger after securing a coveted endorsement from former President Trump. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. A man in Virginia was arrested last week and is now facing federal charges after he allegedly made death threats against Vice President Kamala Harris and other public figures like President Joe Biden and FBI Director Christopher Wray, according to federal court documents. Frank Lucio Carillo, 66, is accused of posting over 4,000 comments on the right-wing social media platform GETTR, founded by Trump advisor Jason Miller, in which he also threatened Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, an FBI special agent said in a complaint filed last week in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, NPR reported. Kamala Harris needs to be put on fire alive I will do it personally if no one else does it I want her to suffer a slow agonizing death, Carillo allegedly said in a social media post flagged by the FBI, The Independent reported. Carillo, whose first court appearance was scheduled for Monday, mentioned the presumptive Democratic nominee 19 times on the account according to the complaint and several times in the days after Biden announced he was exiting the presidential race. The account, joemadarasts1, was first discovered after Carillo allegedly made threats to the Maricopa County, Arizona, Recorders office. That office reported the threats to the FBIs Arizona office, which then contacted Google and GETTR to track down IP addresses, email addresses, and location history attached to Carillo's accounts and devices. In one online post, Carillo allegedly wrote: I HAVE MY AR-15 LOCKED AND LOADED. The 66 year old has been charged with one count of violating the U.S. Code that states that its illegal to knowingly and willfully otherwise makes any such threat against the President, President-elect, Vice President or other officer next in the order of succession to the office of President, NPR reported. When the FBI searched Cariollos home in Winchester, Virginia, last Friday, agents found a RF-15 rifle and a 9 mm handgun. Open political discourse is a cornerstone of our American experience, U.S. Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh said in a staement. We can disagree. We can argue and we can debate. However, when those disagreements cross the line to threats of violence, law enforcement must step in. During the search of his home, the FBI said Carillo asserted that the search was "ridiculous," adding: "I guess Im gonna need a lawyer." The FBI foiled a Pakistani nationals plot to assassinate former President Donald Trump and more American officials last month, according to court documents unsealed on Tuesday. Asif Merchant, 46, was arrested July 12 for targeting officials who are hurting Pakistan and the world, [the] Muslim world. Merchant was preparing to leave the country after he thought his hired hitmen, who were actually undercover FBI agents, were ready to carry out his orders in late August or early September. Merchant was hoping to recruit roughly 25 people to help him with his plans, with some forming a protest to cause mayhem as a distraction and a woman to do reconnaissance work. He mapped out potential assassination plans on a napkin for the FBI agents and secured $5,000 for a prepayment, with plans to send more money after he left the country. Asif Merchant writing out potential assassination plans on a napkin in front of undercover FBI agents. FBI via The Daily Beast A law enforcement official told CNN that Merchant was unlikely to be involved in the assassination attempt on Trumps life last month that reportedly ripped off a chunk of his ear at a rally in Pennsylvania. Regardless, the undercover officers encouraged the Secret Service to increase protections for the former president after learning about the murder-for-hire project. Merchant is cooperating with the investigation, and agents believe he was in some way working with the Iranian government to carry out the attacks. Merchant has a wife and children living in Iran, and he has expressed admiration for its government. His arrest is a part of a growing list of alleged Iranian plans to kill Trump or one of his top advisers in retaliation for a US drone strike that killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani in 2020, according to the court records. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Federal funding keeps some MTA elevator projects on track Federal funding keeps some MTA elevator projects on track NEW YORK (PIX11) Elevators can make or break the commute for some New Yorkers. The pause in congestion pricing has put some accessibility projects on hold. The MTA held a groundbreaking on Monday in Brooklyn at Classon Avenue on the G line because federal money will keep some plans on track. More Local News On the station stairs with her cane, Dawn had a message for the MTA and elected leaders. All those staircases, its too much, too much to bear. Not only this station, a lot more stations, she said. The Classon Avenue accessibility and station improvements will be funded by $57 million in federal funds. Both platforms will be fully accessible from the street. The MTA said the federal funding is involved in 13 accessibility projects throughout the boroughs, which is the agencys largest bundle of upgrades. The federal funding from the bipartisan infrastructure law amounts to $500 million. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer secured the funding. More Transit News Leader Jeffries attended the ceremony in his district and recalled rides in the G train. We are continuing to work hard to provide a substantial amount of federal government resources to the city and MTA to have a state-of-the-art, world-class system, said Jeffries. Jefferies said he supports the temporary pause in congestion pricing, and the federal government can be a partner. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said projects will advance and funding will be announced by 2025. MTA Chairman Janno Lieber welcomed the partnerships. We are upfront with New Yorkers about the impact of the pause. We had to reprioritize for state-of-good repair. That affected some projects, he said. The MTA has opened a record number of new elevators in the last few years. Disability advocates sued to get continued improvements. MTA has warned as many as 25 elevator projects could be reprioritized until the state funding plan to replace or unpause congestion pricing is resolved. Remind the governor that New Yorkers with disabilities are a priority. She should keep her promise, said Khalia Hayslett. The completion date for Classon Avenue is set for the last quarter of 2026: Three new elevators: one connecting the street level to the mezzanine and two connecting the mezzanine to the platforms serving both directions. Four new raised boarding areas, with new platform edge tactile strips, are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Staircases will be refurbished to ADA standards. Two currently closed mezzanine-to-platform staircases will be reopened, increasing the total number of mezzanine-to-platform staircases from four to six. One new curb ramp at the northwest corner of the plaza where the new street elevator is located. New turnstiles with OMNY readers, including an automated wide-aisle fare gate. Replacement of communications and public announcement systems, Upgrades to fire alarms, sprinklers, lighting, and targeted structural repairs and painting. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. CHICAGO A federal judge on Monday promised to hand down a decision on Aug. 13, just six days before the start of the Democratic National Convention, on a long battle between the city and a coalition of pro-Palestinian groups on routes to be used by demonstrators. DNC 2024 security zones and protest plans: What we know The coalition sued over the citys proposed march route, dissatisfied with the citys proposed 1.1 mile march route that would have demonstrators exit Union Park and proceed west on Washington Boulevard before heading north on North Hermitage Avenue to West Maypole Avenue. Demonstrators would then head west on West Maypole Avenue to the entrance of Park 578 and continue west on Maypole to Damen Avenue before heading north on Damen to Lake Street. They would then head east on Lake back to Union Park. Arguing in federal court for the demonstrators, attorney Chris Williams said a longer, 2.3 mile route heading west out of Union Park and proceeding along Washington Boulevard to Western Avenue, makes more sense, is safer, and keeps demonstrators closer to the United Center. Once at Western Avenue, demonstrators would head north to West Lake Street, then east on Lake to South Damen Avenue, south on Damen to Washington Boulevard, and stop at Park 578 for a speakers program. The demonstrators would then head east on Washington back to Union Park. The city does not want demonstrators traversing the length of Washington Boulevard, as the route conflicts with the Red Zone that will be established around the United Center. We got people bringing buses, charter buses from Michigan, from Wisconsin, from Minnesota, said Hatem Abudayyeh with the US Palestinian Community Network and a spokesman for the Coalition to March on the DNC. Abudayyeh alleged city attorneys have failed to negotiate in good faith. City attorneys said theyre not allowed to comment on pending litigation. The case is before US District Judge Andrea Wood. Separately, the city will begin accepting applications Tuesday morning for 45-minute slots at a speakers platform with sound amplification equipment near the United Center. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. WASHINGTON A Virginia man was arrested and charged with threatening to kill Vice President Kamala Harris six days after she launched her presidential campaign, after the Maricopa County Recorder's Office alerted federal authorities of the threats. Frank Lucio Carillo was charged in federal court in Virginia on Friday with threats against the Vice President of the United States after posting a series of lurid messages targeting Harris and other elected officials including President Joe Biden and FBI Director Christopher Wray on the conservative social media site GETTR, according to court records. Kamala Harris needs to be put on fire alive I will do it personally if no one else does (I) want her to suffer a slow agonizing death," one of the posts cited in an FBI affidavit filed in support of the charges said. The case was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia. Harris is going to regret ever trying to become president because if that ever happened I will personally pluck out her eyes with a pair of pliers but first I will shoot and kill everyone that gets in my way, Carillo also allegedly posted on GETTR under the user name joemadarats1. Republican county recorder candidate and incumbent Stephen Richer gives his opening statement during a Citizens Clean Elections debate at BitFire Studios in Phoenix on Monday, June 24, 2024. The investigation began when the FBIs Phoenix office was informed on July 27 of potential threats against Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer, who has angered political conservatives by defending the integrity of Arizona elections and pushing back on false claims of voter fraud. He lost his reelection bid last week in the Republican primary for Maricopa County recorder to a right-wing challenger who was endorsed by Republicans who refused to concede Trump's loss in the 2020 election in the state. The alleged threats against Richer led to a review of a GETTR account that authorities say belonged to Carillo, of Winchester, Va., and messages in which he allegedly threatened political violence dating back many months. In one from Feb. 22, joemadarats1 posted, I HAVE MY AR-15 LOCKED AND LOADED. Carillo made approximately 4,359 posts on GETTR as reviewed by the FBI and also threatened Biden and Wray. Harris was mentioned 19 times by the joemadarats1 account, according to the affidavit. Carillo also threatened others, including Muslims and, in another July 27 post, undocumented immigrants. I believe when he (sic) illegals show up to vote they should be shot in the head quickly they are not allowed to vote so then they must die cuz if I see any of them I'll kill them, Carillo wrote, according to the affidavit. Carillo, 66, made his initial court appearance Monday morning in U.S. District Court in Roanoke, Virginia after being arrested last week at his home in Winchester, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Virginia. Andrea S. Lantz Harris of the Federal Public Defenders Office, Western District of Virginia, was listed as Carillo's attorney in federal court records. Lantz Harris could not be reached Tuesday at her office in Virginia when called by The Arizona Republic. Later on Tuesday, Lantz Harris replied in an email to The Republic that the defense had no comment on the case. The alleged threats against Richer led to a review of a GETTR account that authorities say belonged to Carillo, of Winchester, Va., and messages in which he allegedly threatened political violence dating back many months. In one from Feb. 22, joemadarats1 posted, I HAVE MY AR-15 LOCKED AND LOADED. Carillo also threatened others, including Muslims and, in another July 27 post, undocumented immigrants. I believe when he (sic) illegals show up to vote they should be shot in the head quickly they are not allowed to vote so then they must die cuz if I see any of them I'll kill them, Carillo wrote, according to the affidavit. Yvonne Nedley, listed in the charging documents as an associate of Carillo's who has "lived together at multiple residences" with him including currently in Winchester, had no comment when contacted by USA TODAY. Open political discourse is a cornerstone of our American experience. We can disagree. We can argue and we can debate. However, when those disagreements cross the line to threats of violence, law enforcement must step in, U.S. Attorney Christopher Kavanaugh of the Western District of Virginia said in a statement. The messages threatening Harris were posted July 27, court records said. That's less than a week after Biden announced he would not seek reelection, and after it became likely that Harris had the political support to take his place atop the Democratic ticket. The alleged threats from Carillo also came two weeks after a sniper shot and injured Trump during an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. FBI agents seized a rifle and a handgun from Carillos Winchester, Virginia, residence, the court records said. During the search of his home, Carillo said that if his arrest was about the online stuff. I posted it, the affidavit said. FBI and Justice Department officials, including Wray and Attorney General Merrick Garland, say they are concerned by what they describe as a sharp increase in threats of political violence against U.S. public officials with the Nov. 5 election less than 100 days away. The Arizona Republic's senior breaking news editor Michelle Cruz and reporter Jose R. Gonzalez contributed to this article. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Feds charge Virginia man with threatening to kill VP Kamala Harris Wesley Bell takes a video of his supporters as he takes the stage as the winner of the Democratic congressional primary against incumbent U.S. Rep. Cori Bush on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in St. Louis. (Robert Cohen/St. Louis Post-Dispatch via AP) ST. LOUIS (AP) St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell has defeated U.S. Rep. Cori Bush in a Democratic primary in St. Louis, marking the second time this year that one of the partys incumbents has been ousted in an expensive contest that reflected deep divisions over the war in Gaza. Bush, a member of the progressive congressional group known as the Squad, was seeking a third term in Missouris 1st Congressional District, which includes St. Louis city and part of St. Louis County. Bell is heavily favored to carry this overwhelmingly Democratic district in November, when his party is aiming to retake control of the U.S. House. I am committed to serving the St. Louis region in Congress with integrity, transparency, and dedication, Bell said in a statement. Together, we will tackle the challenges ahead and build a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Bush, in a fiery concession speech, said she still has work to do, even if she'll no longer be in Congress. At the end of the day, whether Im a congresswoman or not, Im still taking care of my people, Bush said. Bells campaign received a big boost from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, whose super political action committee, United Democracy Project, spent $8.5 million to oust Bush. She was targeted after repeated criticism of Israels response to the Oct. 7 Hamas attack. It was a gameplan that worked earlier this year in New York. In June, United Democracy Project spent $15 million to defeat another Squad member U.S. Rep. Jamaal Bowman. Bowman lost to George Latimer, a pro-Israel centrist. A statement from United Democracy Project said the wins by Bell and Latimer, along with John McGuire's defeat of U.S. Rep. Bob Good in a Republican primary last week in Virginia, is further proof that being pro-Israel is good policy and good politics on both sides of the aisle. UDP will continue our efforts to support leaders working to strengthen the U.S.-Israel alliance while countering detractors in either political party. Bush, in her concession speech, said she won't change. We will keep supporting a free Palestine, Bush said. A crowd member answered back: Free, free Palestine. In October, Bush called the Israeli retaliation an ethnic cleansing campaign. Soon after the Hamas attack, Bush wrote on social media that Israels collective punishment against Palestinians for Hamass actions is a war crime. Her comments prompted backlash, even among some supporters in her district. Bell, who had been planning a Senate run against incumbent Republican Josh Hawley, instead opted to challenge Bush. He told The Associated Press last month that Bushs comments about Israel were wrong and offensive. Bush responded by saying that the donors behind AIPAC support former President Donald Trump and other Republicans. This is only the beginning, Bush told the AP. Because if they can unseat me, then theyre going to continue to come after more Democrats. Bush and Bell both honed their leadership skills in Ferguson, Missouri, in the unrest that followed Michael Browns death at the hands of a police officer in 2014. Friday marks the 10th anniversary of Browns death. Brown, a Black 18-year-old, was walking with a friend on Aug. 9, 2014, when a white officer, Darren Wilson, confronted them. Wilson said he fired in self-defense because Brown was so enraged. Some witnesses said Brown, who was unarmed, had his hands up in surrender. Wilson was cleared of wrongdoing and resigned, and Browns death led to months of protests. Bush, 48, became a protest leader. She was outspoken and critical of how police in Ferguson and other parts of the St. Louis region treated Black people. Her activism prompted an unsuccessful run against longtime incumbent 1st District Democrat William Lacy Clay in 2018, before she defeated him in 2020. She easily won reelection in 2022. Bell, 49, began hosting conversations about community policing after Browns death. The lawyer, who previously served as a municipal prosecutor and judge, ran successfully for a seat on the Ferguson City Council before defeating seven-term incumbent St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Bob McCulloch in the August 2018 Democratic primary. As prosecutor, Bell reopened an examination into Browns death. He announced in July 2020 that while the investigation didnt exonerate Wilson, there wasnt enough evidence to charge him. My heart breaks for Browns parents, Bell said at the time. I know this is not the result they were looking for and that their pain will continue forever. Browns father, Michael Brown Sr., was featured in an ad for Bush. He used my family for power, Brown says of Bell in the ad. And now hes trying to sell out St. Louis. Bushs campaign focused on what shes accomplished for St. Louis. She said her efforts have brought $2 billion to the 1st District and that it was her protest on the steps of the Capitol in 2021 that helped extend the federal eviction moratorium as part of the COVID-19 pandemic, aiding thousands of St. Louisans. Bell touted his own progressive credentials. He noted that as a prosecutor he has said he will not prosecute any abortion cases in a state that bans the procedure in most instances. He created diversion programs to point people with mental health and substance abuse problems toward treatment instead of jail. And his office has expanded efforts to examine potential cases of wrongful convictions. In Missouris 3rd District, which stretches from the western outskirts of the St. Louis region through central Missouri, the candidate with Trump's endorsement won. Bob Onder, a physician and also a former state senator, defeated former state Sen. Kurt Schaefer. Trump wrote on Truth Social last month that Onder was an incredible America First Patriot. The former president wrote that Schaefer is WEAK ON MAGA, adding, Thats all you have to know! The 3rd District is heavily Republican, and Onder will be favored against Democrat Bethany Mann, a political newcomer, in November. ___ This story has been updated to correct that Onder won in Missouri's 3rd District, not Schaefer ___ Summer Ballentine in Columbia, Missouri, contributed to this report. Then-Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., appears for a Senate Homeland Security Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, Nov. 5, 2019. Harris, the daughter of immigrants who rose through the California political and law enforcement ranks to become the first female vice president in U.S. history, is poised to secure the Democratic Party's presidential nomination, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. | Andrew Harnik This article was first published in the On the Trail 2024 newsletter. Sign up to receive the newsletter in your inbox on Tuesday and Friday mornings here. To submit a question to next weeks Friday Mailbag, email onthetrail@deseretnews.com. Hello, friends. T-minus three months until Election Day, as of yesterday. If the past month is any indication, anything anything can happen between then and now. Buckle up. 3 things to know Vice President Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her vice president pick, individuals close to the situation told news outlets on Tuesday morning. Walz, a former National Guard member and high school teacher, is in his second term as governor. Harris has not yet publicly announced her decision. Read more here. Global markets are in flux after a poor U.S. jobs report Friday and other signs of a slowing American economy. Stocks saw some of the worst drops in two years on Monday, reigniting concerns about a potential recession. Trump quickly used the downturn as an opportunity to attack Harris, calling it the Kamala Crash. Read more here. Who is the best candidate on religious freedom? Conservative Christians have lauded Trumps Supreme Court selections as major religious liberty wins. But what would a Harris presidency look like in that regard? My colleague Kelsey Dallas has a good explainer here. The big idea The fight for the Latter-day Saint vote There are enough members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Arizona and Nevada two of this years battleground states to conceivably decide the presidential election. This week, one of the campaigns is making a push to reel them in. On Tuesday evening, a group called Latter-day Saints for Harris is hosting a virtual rally in support of the Democratic presumptive nominee. The Zoom call has the blessing of the Harris campaign, operating under the new Republicans for Harris program. According to Rob Taber, national director of Latter-day Saints for Harris, over 2,400 people had already RSVPed by Tuesday morning. Were a big tent, Taber said. You dont have to agree with all of the Democratic Party platform. This is absolutely a place where people who are undecided can come listen in and hang out. The speaker schedule for Tuesdays call includes two Utah Democratic politicians Senate Minority Leader Luz Escamilla and Rep. Brian King and one Arizona Republican: Mesa Mayor John Giles, who recently endorsed Harris for president. During the 2020 election cycle, Taber held three similar calls, offering a space for Latter-day Saints who are Democrats to gather. A lot of members of the church really like having an online home, Taber said. If theyre voting for the Democratic candidate, they often feel a little bit lonely or outnumbered in their home wards or stakes, or in their families. And so if we can create a place thats edifying, that also helps them get involved in the campaign, theres a lot of good that can come from that. Latter-day Saints have long been a reliably Republican voting bloc. In Utah, where the Church of Jesus Christ is headquartered and a majority of the population identifies as Latter-day Saint, a Democratic presidential nominee has not won since 1964. But in 2016, Trump performed worse in Utah than any Republican in decades, and some prominent Latter-day Saint Republicans like Sen. Mitt Romney have been outspoken critics of the former president. But in 2020, Trump coasted to victory in the state, and polls this year show Trump far ahead of Biden among the states voters. It is difficult to know how U.S. Latter-day Saints across the country feel about their 2024 options: Because Latter-day Saints only make up 2% of the U.S. population, they rarely make up a statistically significant sample in national surveys. One recent survey, with a sample of over 100 Latter-day Saints, offers a glimpse. Conducted by the American Enterprise Institutes Survey Center on American Life, the small sample of Latter-day Saints were more likely than any other U.S. religious group to say neither political party represents their views. In a head-to-head matchup between Trump and Biden, though, Trump still wins in a landslide, 49% to 17%. (The survey was conducted in early April, when Biden was still the presumptive Democratic nominee.) Can Harris turn those figures around? Thats what Taber and his group hope. Taber pointed to respect for democracy and humane immigration as two key issues. I think those are the two biggest things that Ive heard, actually, from Republicans who are considering supporting Vice President Harris this time around, he said. Theres a lot in the platform, even once you get beyond those two, that a lot of people are finding themselves drawn to. Meanwhile, the Trump camp is mulling how to win Latter-day Saints, too. In 2020, the Trump campaign launched a formal Latter-day Saints for Trump initiative, hosting multiple events in Arizona. This cycle, the campaign has launched a broader Believers for Trump program, targeting people of faith from all denominations. The Trump campaign did not respond to a request for comment about whether it would reboot a Latter-day Saint-specific initiative in 2024. Trump is planning to visit Utah this month for a fundraiser, and he has secured endorsements from every Latter-day Saint member of Congress except Romney and Rep. John Curtis, R-Utah. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox a longtime Trump critic who refused to vote for the former president in 2016 and 2020 endorsed Trump last month. Trump allies in Utah are working on a project to showcase Trumps support among Latter-day Saints, said Don Peay, a Utah political operative. There is a very strong nationwide corps of Latter-day Saint people leading an effort to very clearly delineate what Trump has done on policy, the Supreme Court, etc. that aligns with LDS principles, Peay said. There will be an A-list of LDS and non-LDS people who will outline what Trump will do for the future. Stay tuned. Whether Latter-day Saints turn out, especially in Arizona and Nevada, could determine the result of the presidential race. While the Latter-day Saint share of the population in both states has decreased in recent decades, members of the church still make up a sizable chunk: More than 440,000 Latter-day Saints live in Arizona, a state Biden won in 2020 by less than 11,000 votes; in Nevada, where over 180,000 Latter-day Saints reside, Biden won in 2020 by about 33,000 votes. Harris plans to visit Arizona Friday and Nevada Saturday, while Sen. JD Vance the Republican nominee for vice president visited both states last week. What Im reading Huntsman, Romney ... and Trump? Susie Wiles, the brains behind Trumps 2024 campaign, cut her teeth on Jon Huntsman Jr.s and Mitt Romneys 2012 campaigns. Wiles went from working for two members of Mormon GOP royalty to working for Trump at the encouragement and recommendation of some close to Trump, a new book details. It was a trajectory that Wiles herself felt the need to explain away. The Woman Who Engineered Donald Trumps Rise From the Ashes of 2020 (Meridith McGraw for Vanity Fair) RFK Jr. dumped a bear in Central Park, as noted in this New Yorker profile. But the most interesting tidbit, to me, was this revelation about Trumps effect on the idea of presidential character: I asked Kennedy if Trumps 2016 victory had changed the way he thought about his own political future; Trump, like Kennedy, had skeletons in his closet. I think that it enlarged the notions of whats possible he said. What Does Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Actually Want? (Clare Malone, The New Yorker) A sign of our broken immigration system: The odds of getting a work permit with a pending asylum case are far better than getting a skilled work visa with a job offer, as this interactive story outlines. How the broken immigration system is pushing skilled workers to enter illegally (Youyou Zhou, The Washington Post) See you on the trail. Editors Note: The Deseret News is committed to covering issues of substance in the 2024 presidential race from its unique perspective and editorial values. Our team of political reporters will bring you in-depth coverage of the most relevant news and information to help you make an informed decision. Find our complete coverage of the election here. ASHEVILLE - Candidate filing closed Aug. 2 for four open seats on Buncombe County Board of Education, with Districts 1, 2, 4 and an at-large seat slated for the ballot this November. The election comes shortly after the school board begrudgingly approved an electoral map that will cause some parents to vote for officials who will not represent most of their childrens districts. Ten candidates are vying for the spots, according to a candidate list reported by Buncombe County Election Services. The seats are held by incumbents Ann Franklin, Amy Churchill and Glenda Weinert all of who are running for reelection and Peggy Buchanan. Buses are parked at Hominy Valley Elementary August 18, 2023. Weinert was appointed in June to fill the at-large seat left vacant by the resignation of Amanda Simpkins. The school board has seven members who are elected to serve four-year terms. Elections are nonpartisan. The state legislature required redistricting for the Buncombe school district during the 2023 session. Local Democratic politicians and current school board members called the unfunded mandate a partisan effort to fix a system they said was not broken, and one that will harm residents. The county Republican party chair said the new system will, in his view, better represent families in each district. The new map divides the county into six districts with nearly equal populations. Voters will now choose one candidate to represent their district and another to represent the entire county, not including the Asheville City School domain in the county's center, the Citizen Times reported in March. Churchill, current school board member running for the District 4 seat, had opposed the party plan to have the GOP-majority General Assembly impose gerrymandered school board electoral districts. In July, Buncombe County Republican Chair Doug Brown was found guilty of assaulting Churchill at the Asheville party headquarters. Churchill said Brown last year pushed her forcefully and then laid his hands on her again after she told him not to. He remained in his position after the sentencing. Several candidates were unable to be reached or did not respond by deadline. Following are the candidates: More: Buncombe GOP chair guilty of assault on female school board member, but no punishment At-large: Charles Martin Martin is an Asheville native and senior pastor at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in West Asheville. Through a partnership with Partners Unlimited, the church hosts an out-of-school suspension program, which provides support for students from Buncombe and Asheville schools. After listening to concerns from students and parents, Martin said, "I think it's time for a change for the board of education." Charles Martin. He hopes to address the achievement gap between the city's Black and white students and the disproportionate disciplining of the system's Black students. The goal, he said, is to make the schools better for all children. "I want the standard across the whole board, regardless of your color, your race, your background, your sexual orientation. It doesn't matter what those other titles are," he said. "The only thing that Buncombe County needs to be responsible for is making sure that we educate our kids ... Every student should have that right in the school system to get a quality education." More: Buncombe County school board reluctantly adopts 'ridiculous,' GOP-fueled electoral map Glenda Weinert (incumbent) Weinert is a local business owner who has also served as an adjunct professor for UNC Asheville, A-B Tech and Lee University. Glenda Weinert In 2020, she ran as the sole Republican seeking the District 1 seat on Buncombe County's Board of Commissioners, but was defeated by Democratic Commissioner Terri Wells. She also ran in 2018 for a District 2 seat and in 2012 for chairperson of the board, but lost in both bids. Weinert previously owned Little Beaver Childcare Centers. She has served on several local nonprofit boards and as chair of the North Carolina Childcare Commission for six years. Arria Williams District 1 Ann Franklin (incumbent) Franklin, the school board's current chair, first joined the board in 2008. She is a retired 36-year Buncombe County veteran teacher, according to the schools' website. Ann taught at Haw Creek and Flat Creek Elementary Schools and served as a teacher for homebound seriously ill children throughout the county. She has worked for the North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) serving educators in Asheville City and eight western counties and graduated from North Buncombe High School. Greg Parks. Greg Parks Parks, a quality manager for a local manufacturing facility, said his top priorities are ensuring a safe and healthy learning environment, providing a fully funded and staffed school system, parental involvement in education, infrastructure and fiscal responsibility. "I believe our children are our most precious assets. It is our job to give them a solid educational footing, while fostering the very best in all of them," he told the Citizen Times Aug. 5. "I desire an education system that is safe, well-funded and fully staffed. I support intellectual growth and critical thinking. Children should learn how to think independently, not just what to think. I believe in practical, common-sense solutions." District 2 Sara Disher Ratliff Ratliff is an Asheville native who graduated from Buncombe County Schools' A.C. Reynolds High School and has four sons in the school system. As a compliance manager, she said she is "entrusted with tracking and coordinating responses to consumer complaints and managing all areas of dispute resolution, including (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau), (Better Business Bureau) and Attorney General Complaints." Sara Disher Ratliff "I am running for the school board to amplify the voices of parents within the board," she said. "My focus will be on addressing local issues and ensuring that agenda items reflect the needs of each school. I am dedicated to fostering a partnership between parents and the education system, ensuring that parents are treated as essential collaborators in their child's education." Nancy Shook Hargrove Hargrove is a retired teacher of nearly 30 years, with two decades spent teaching at Charles D. Owen Middle School in Swannanoa. Her three children are all BCS graduates, and several of her grandchildren are in the school system, or recent graduates, she said. "I became a candidate for school board because I seek to be a part of a team that makes Buncombe County Schools a growing, vibrant system, meeting the needs of our students and their families," Hargrove said. "Everyone in our immediate family has either taught or attended/graduated from this school district ... We have invested our lifes work as educators in this community." Hargrove said she will prioritize teacher and staff salary increases, recruitment, legislative lobbying and "positive publicity." Nancy Hargrove. Greg Cheatham District 4 Jim Fulton Fulton told the Citizen Times he is running "because I believe that our children deserve better educational outcomes and more robust support systems than they are currently receiving." Now retired, Fulton worked as a project manager for 30 years and in various clerical positions at Bank of America and several acquired and predecessor banks. For the final years of his career, he worked as a technology project manager with FIS Management Services. He has lived in Arden for 12 years. Jim Fulton "I am committed to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and advocating for policies that support both our students and educators," Fulton said. "It's time for fresh perspectives and real progress, and I am dedicated to making that happen for Buncombe County." Fulton runs First Tuesday Conservative, an Asheville-based "conservative activism" organization. He identified himself as the president in a September letter to the editor in the Mountain Xpress. Amy Churchill (incumbent) Churchill was elected to the board in 2012. She is a respiratory therapist at Mission Hospital. In a July 22 news release announcing her filing, Churchill said she had changed her political affiliation to Independent. Of why she was running for reelection, she cited her passion to keep arts programs in Buncombe County schools, and fears over the expansion of the state's private school vouchers, particularly on elective offerings. She said she was "equally passionate" about keeping students, faculty and staff healthy and safe using her experience as a respiratory therapist during COVID to help "steer the best course through that crisis," as well as backing initiatives to enhance mental health support in schools throughout the system. Amy Churchill, a Buncombe County School Board member, July 8, 2024. This story will be updated. More: Buncombe County school board appoints Glenda Weinert to vacant seat More: Buncombe GOP chair won't be removed after assaulting school board member: NC party rules Sarah Honosky is the city government reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. News Tips? Email shonosky@citizentimes.com or message on X, formerly Twitter, at @slhonosky. Please support local, daily journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times. This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Who filed for Buncombe County School Board? Meet the candidates Final section of I-69 opening in Indianapolis. Here's when drivers can use it Half a century after the goal was first conceived, Indianapolis and Evansville are now officially connected via an interstate highway. In fact, the opening of the interchange of Interstates 69 and 465 at the southwestern tip of Marion County on Tuesday completes the final link from Kentucky to Michigan and ultimately from Mexico to Canada. There were a lot of cynics along the way, a lot of doubters that understandably wondered if it would be completed in their lifetimes, Gov. Eric Holcomb told reporters. Today we prove that no project is too big. Southbound traffic will start to open Tuesday evening and northbound traffic later in the week, probably toward Friday, Indiana Department of Transportation Commissioner Michael Smith said Tuesday. The roughly $4 billion construction of Interstate 69 between the two cities spanned three Indiana governors Republicans Mitch Daniels, Mike Pence and Holcomb all of whom attended an opening ceremony at the new interchange Tuesday morning. There was no shortage of commentary about the doubts and naysayers during the project's long history. "Welcome to a day some said would never happen " Smith told the audience of lawmakers, former administration staffers and construction contractors "some of you said would never happen." The project won't technically be over even when the highway is open in both directions. The Indiana Department of Transportation still plans to add a travel lane to I-465 in each direction on this southwest corner by the end of the year to accommodate anticipated extra traffic from the new interstate connection. @GovHolcomb rolls up in a pace car to Life is a Highway. pic.twitter.com/SWSAZ7s4rh Kayla Dwyer (@kayla_dwyer17) August 6, 2024 A long history A Southwest Indiana highway was first contemplated in the 1970s, and the Indiana Department of Transportation would draft many feasibility studies in the following decades. The federal government approved this route in 2004, and construction began in 2008, during Daniels' administration. What made it possible at the time was a $4 billion deal to lease the Indiana Toll Road to a private company. Daniels put the money toward a host of infrastructure projects, most notably kickstarting the I-69 project. On Tuesday, Daniels recalled the moment in 2006 in a windowless room when he opened the envelope containing that bid. He said it was one of the top five moments of his life. "We all instantly saw a whole new future, and I'm not stretching, and when I say I saw this day I didn't know how long it would take, but I saw this day." An IndyCar sits along I-69 on the south side of Indianapolis on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, ahead of opening to the public later in the day. INDOT is hoping to open north bound lanes by Friday. I-69 timeline: A historical look at the project from Evansville to Indianapolis There were plenty of obstacles ahead: Daniels' toll road deal squeaked through the legislature by a two-vote margin. Environmental groups and businesses sued to try to block the highway's planning. But a judge ruled in favor of INDOT, and Daniels later got to sign off on a third milestone, in 2012: The completion of the first three of six sections, from Evansville to U.S. 231, near Crane. Pence oversaw the completion of the fourth section, from U.S. 231 to Bloomington, in 2015. But he also oversaw a failed public-private partnership that ultimately delayed the project's completion by two years. Pence didn't mention this hiccup in his remarks, but called the highway a "monument to the determination of the people of Indiana." "It required patience, determination, vision and unwavering commitment," Pence said. Pence did not meet with reporters ahead of time, but Holcomb, asked about the prior mishaps, said once Hoosier contractors took over, they "shifted into a different gear." (The project is now three years ahead of the initial schedule.) "Those things happen," he said. "You got to acknowledge them and you got to deal with them head on. But we made up for lost time." Holcomb has overseen the opening of the final two sections, from Bloomington to Indianapolis. The sixth and final leg, from Martinsville to Indianapolis, is projected to cost $2 billion. This was the original cost estimate for the entire highway, from Evansville to Indianapolis, back in 2006. Daniels told reporters Tuesday cost increases over a long period of time were neither surprising nor unforeseen. "What Hoosiers should be glad for was we, and really only we, were in a position to deal with that," he said, referring to Indiana's nearly $3 billion in reserves. "Every state has dealt with those cost increases." Contact IndyStar state government and politics reporter Kayla Dwyer at kdwyer@indystar.com or follow her on Twitter @kayla_dwyer17. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Final section of I-69 opening in Indianapolis. When drivers can use it WASHINGTON, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, who has won enough delegate votes to secure the Democratic presidential nomination, has picked Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, according to multiple U.S. media reports. According to CNN and the Associated Press, Harris has selected Walz as her running mate, a pairing aimed at strengthening support for the Democrats among rural and white voters in Midwestern states. Harris, who is the daughter of Indian and Jamaican immigrants, with the choice of Walz, aims to broaden the Democratic Party's appeal for a wider range of votes in this election, which is only three months away. Walz, 60, previously served as a U.S. House Representative. He was elected Governor of Minnesota in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz may be able to shore up support among people the Democratic party has recently struggled with white, blue-collar workers and men even as Vice President Kamala Harris candidacy has reenergized Democratic women, younger, Black and Latino voters. Her new running mate, whos a veteran and a former teacher with a Midwestern demeanor, holds an appeal that could be critical in the three states Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan and could make or break the race. Hes a firewall candidate, said Antjuan Seawright, a South Carolina-based Democratic strategist. He certainly is respected, not only because of his resume and his body of work, but hes respected as an executive, hes respected as a former member of Congress, he yields the support of Americas heartbeat, thats teachers in this country. And, Seawright said, Hes proven that he knows how to govern in a split scenario. Even as Harris outperforms President Joe Biden across key voting blocs, the decision to elevate Walz, 60, creates a Democratic ticket that many Harris allies and Democrats argue will serve to complement the vice president, who is Black and Indian American and hails from deep-blue California. Walz was selected from a list of finalists a group of white men that Democrats say balances the ticket and widens its appeal. The one constituency that was hanging a little tougher with Biden was older, white and blue-collar voters in those blue wall states. I think thats the potential Walz has to bring those votes to the table, said Democratic Strategist Mark Longabaugh, who worked on Sen. Bernie Sanders campaigns. She has clearly reenergized the Democratic base of the party, younger voters, people of color. And so I think they wont hurt her there in any way, but the assist will be in the other direction. In picking Walz, Harris is bypassing the contender widely seen as helping her most in Pennsylvania, the states governor, Josh Shapiro. Thats no small sacrifice, given the states significance. Minnesota is less competitive, last going for a Republican for president, Richard Nixon, in 1972. Still, many Democrats view Walzs resume and communication style as one that could also buoy support more broadly in the Midwest and Rust Belt including in Pennsylvania. Walz pioneered the Democratic attack on former President Donald Trump and his running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, as weird, and consistently offered up a plainspoken defense of Democratic aims to improve the social safety net and get past political divisions in his cable news interviews. They point to his military service, which will provide a counterpoint to the Vances prior service in the Marines. Walz was also a teacher and held a significantly rural congressional seat, even as former President Donald Trump carried it by 15 percentage points in 2016. He emerged in recent days as the favorite among Democrats in Congress competing in rural and competitive districts and who argued Walz could speak directly to voters in flyover country. Walz, a former union member, was also a top pick among labor leaders, including UAW President Shawn Fain, who said he wanted either the Minnesota governor or Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear. Like Biden, Walz joined striking auto workers on the picket line at the Stellantis parts distribution facility in Plymouth, Minnesota, last October. He also signed into law one of the most significant packages of worker-friendly policies in state history, increasing protections for workers to unionize. He just feels very authentic, very Midwest in a place where this is going to come down to three states in the Midwest, said Democratic strategist Pete Giangreco, whos worked on multiple presidential campaigns and said locking up Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, plus Nebraskas 2nd congressional district electoral vote would be a possible path to victory. Vice President Harris seems to be doing well with independent women, and I think theres a case to be made to independent men. I think picking a Midwestern governor whos served in the National Guard, like Walz, is a smart move towards that. Democrats argue there are ways that Walz can be a boon for Harris beyond geographic politics, too. As chair of the Democratic Governors Association and a top Biden campaign surrogate, Walz has appeared on the stump for months, counterprogramming Trump campaign events and making him a top-notch evangelist for the successes Harris had as vice president, Seawright said. He rose as a dark horse in the veepstakes, performing his way to a top contender spot as viral clips of his cable news interviews circulated on the internet. His weird messaging has been adopted by the Harris campaign in interviews and social media. Immediately after reports that Walz was Harris running mate, $6.6 million was raised on ActBlue, the major Democratic fundraising platform, between 9 a.m. to noon Eastern Time on Tuesday, compared to $1.7 million raised over the same time period the day before. One of the things about vice presidents, too, the advantage of the pick is not always a geographic or demographic pick-up. Its stylistic. Ill never forget when Bill Clinton tapped Al Gore [in 1992], everyone was like, what? Two southerners? And that wasnt the pick. The pick was energy and youth, get the country moving again. It was time for change and freshness, and just the dynamism of the two of them, Longabaugh said. Walzs ability as a messenger could come in handy at the Democratic convention later this month, when Democrats will host hundreds of content creators. Its part of the partys effort to capture online attention and to gin up excitement around the campaign and, of course, appeal to the younger, very online generation of voters. I would imagine whoever was in the room was also thinking about, how are people being looked at from the Twitter scroller, the Instagram scroller, where there could be fun, sound bites that voters get excited about? said veteran Democratic strategist Michael Ceraso. While Walz didnt always have progressive credentials, his second term as governor, when Democrats took full control of state government in 2023, made him into something of a model for what Democrats could do on the national level. He signed a number of social welfare programs into law last year, including expanded medical and family paid leave and free lunch in public schools. Democrats in the state were also able to pass new gun safety laws, codify abortion rights into law and pass a marijuana legalization bill. But that part of Walzs appeal also opens the door for the line of attack Republicans are eager to exploit. Trump press secretary Karoline Leavitt, in a post on X, called Walz a dangerously liberal extremist and a West Coast wannabe who wants to spread Californias dangerously liberal agenda far and wide. His videos are sensational, and he is a plainspoken person. That all comes across pretty well, said veteran Republican strategist Doug Heye. But I think he will have some problems even though he doesnt talk like it his record is pretty far to the left. And the way he talks sort of gives him some cover on that, but thats something that will be picked apart by the RNC, and the Trump campaign. Jessica Piper contributed to this report. When is the first day of school in Kansas City-area districts? KANSAS CITY, Mo. Kansas City-area students and teachers are preparing to return to school this month. Missouris tax-free weekend sees school shoppers flocking to stores But whos going back to school first? And who has the most summer left? Find your districts start date and see how it compares to others in the list below: Tuesday, Aug. 13: Basehor-Linwood School District: Pre-Kindergarten-6, 9 Blue Valley School District: All Grades Leavenworth Unified School District: All Grades Louisburg School District: All Grades Olathe Public Schools: K-5, 6, 9 Ottawa School District: All Grades Shawnee Mission School District: 1-7, 9 Spring Hill School District: Pre-K-9 Turner School District: All Grades Wednesday, Aug. 14: Basehor-Linwood School District: 7,8, 10-12 De Soto School District: K-6, 9 (Half Day Only) Gardner-Edgerton School District: K-8, 9 Kansas City, Kansas Public School District: K-5, 6, 9 Lansing School District: PK-6 Lawrence School District: All Grades Olathe Public Schools 7,8,10-12 Shawnee Mission School District: 8, 10-12 Spring Hill School District: 10-12 Thursday, Aug. 15: Baldwin City School District: All Grades De Soto School District: All Grades Gardner-Edgerton School District: P, 10-12 Shawnee Mission School District: PK-K Kansas City, Kansas Public School District: 1-8, 10-12 Lansing School District: 7,8, 10-12 Friday, Aug. 16: Eudora School District: All Grades Bonner Springs School District: All Grades Monday, Aug. 19: Belton 124 School District: All Grades Center School District: All Grades Harrisonville Schools: All Grades Hickman Mills C-1 Schools: Pre-K-2nd, 6th, and 9th Grades Independence School District: All Grades Kansas City Public Schools: All Grades Park Hill School District: All Grades Tuesday, Aug. 20: Archie School District: All Grades Blue Springs School District: All Grades Drexel School District: All Grades East Lynne School District: All Grades Grain Valley School District: All Grades Grandview School District: All Grades Hickman Mills C-1 Schools: All Grades Kearney School District: All Grades Midway School District: All Grades North Kansas City School District: All Grades North Platte County School District: All Grades Platte County R-III School District: All Grades Raymore-Peculiar School District: All Grades Smithville School District: All Grades Strasburg C-3 School District: All Grades West Platte County School District: All Grades Wednesday, Aug. 21: Excelsior Springs School District: All Grades Liberty School District: All Grades Fort Osage School District: All Grades Lees Summit School District: All Grades Lone Jack C-6 School District: All Grades Raytown School District: All Grades Thursday, Aug. 22: Pleasant Hill School District: All Grades Oak Grove R-VI School District: All Grades Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. A first for Forsyth, beloved chicken brand announces opening date for new restaurant The long-anticipated opening of Monroe Countys first Chick-fil-A is finally here. On Aug. 15, the new restaurant at 101 Industrial Park Road in Forsyth will start serving up those popular chicken sandwiches, nuggets and waffle fries, the company announced Tuesday. The restaurant hours are 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. I am truly honored to have the opportunity to serve the Forsyth community, Nick Jones, independent franchise owner and operator of the new store, said in a news release. I look forward to creating a welcoming environment where our guests can enjoy great food and exceptional hospitality. The first Chick-fil-A in Monroe County is about to open at 101 Industrial Park Road in Forsyth just off Interstate 75. The new restaurant offers dine-in, take-out, delivery and a drive-thru, including a mobile thru lane for guests that have placed orders in the Chick-fil-A app ahead of time. The new restaurant also features a playground. Say hello to the owner/operator At 16, Jones started his career with the late Truett Cathys Chick-fil-A in Stockbridge, Georgia. Jones worked as a team member while in college as well as serving in the U.S. Army National Guard and Army Reserves in 2002. He moved into management after graduating from college in 2004. Before taking the helm of the Forsyth restaurant, Jones served for 11 years as the local owner-operator of the Chick-fil-A in Vicksburg, Mississippi. In Forsyth, he will manage a team of about 90 full-time and part-time employees. The restaurant is now hiring. The first Chick-fil-A in Monroe County is about to open at 101 Industrial Park Road in Forsyth just off Interstate 75. Joyce White, executive director of the Development Authority of Monroe County, played a key role in bringing the Georgia grown company to Forsyth. She reached out to the company to consider locating a new restaurant on property near Interstate 75 that was too large for the industrial park. The restaurant will be the 16th Chick-fil-A serving the greater Macon area, according to the release. The restaurant is less than five miles from the Georgia Public Safety Training Center and about 25 miles northwest of Macon. In addition to its popular chicken meal choices, the Chick-fil-A brand is also known for its advertising campaign of cows holding up Eat More Chikin signs and for being closed on Sundays. Telegraph archives were used in this report. This Georgia grown nationally known chicken brand announces opening date for their newest Middle Georgia restaurant. Boeing announced on Monday it has delivered the first production MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopter to the U.S. Air Force. The helicopter will be stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana, Boeing said, where airmen will use it to patrol the sprawling Minuteman III nuclear missile fields surrounding the base. The MH-139 is a militarized version of Italian aerospace firm Leonardos AW139 commercial helicopter, and will replace some of the Air Forces Vietnam-era UH-1N Hueys to conduct security patrols at nuclear missile bases. This aircraft will directly support ongoing U.S. Air Force modernization efforts, Azeem Khan, Boeings MH-139 executive director and program manager, said in a statement on Aug. 5. Delivering this asset for the MH-139A fleet is critical to the future of national security as the Grey Wolf will play a crucial role in the U.S. nuclear triad for decades to come. Boeing last year finished delivering six test MH-139s to the Air Force, ending its research, development, test and evaluation phase and shifting the program to production. The Air Force also in spring 2023 awarded Boeing and Leonardo a $285 million low-rate initial production contract to start building the first 13 Grey Wolf helicopters. The Air Force then awarded Boeing another contract for seven more MH-139s, bringing the total number of the helicopters on contract to 26. But the Air Force has since dramatically slashed its planned purchase of the helicopter, which is now leading to cost overrun problems. The service originally intended to buy 80 Grey Wolf helicopters to patrol nuclear missile fields, transport senior officials in the Washington area and conduct other missions. Facing tight budgets, the Air Force decided to cut its planned Grey Wolf purchase almost in half, and now expects to buy 42 helicopters. The service also plans to keep some older Hueys at the Air Force District of Washington, Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington state, Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico and Duke Field in Florida. But the attempt to save money had consequences. Because the service now plans to buy fewer MH-139s, the individual price of each helicopter has gone up enough to trigger a cost overrun process known as a critical Nunn-McCurdy breach. This breach triggers a review that could result in a program getting canceled, unless the Pentagon certifies to Congress that it is essential to national security and has no other cheaper options to get the job done. The Pentagon also has to show the program is a higher priority than other programs, which could feasibly be cut to pay for it if its new cost estimates are reasonable and the management structure in place can control further cost growth. The Air Force said in April, when the Nunn-McCurdy breach was announced, that the Grey Wolfs quantity-related breach could be resolved by Congress adding more MH-139s back into the budget. To make the MH-139, Leonardo first produces the underlying helicopter at its facility in northeast Philadelphia, Boeing said. The aircraft are then modified by Boeing to install the necessary military equipment. Boeing said in January that it had finished building the first production Grey Wolf in December 2023, and that it was undergoing flight testing at Leonardos Philadelphia facility. First Indigenous Female U.S. Governor Will Take Power if Harris Wins Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan may become the first Indigenous female governor in U.S. history after Gov. Tim Walz was tapped as Kamala Harris running mate. Flanagans father, Marvin Manypenny, who died in 2020 at the age of 72, was an Indian land rights activist and a member of the White Earth Band of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe. Flanagan, who would become governor if Harris and Walz win the 2024 presidential election, is also a member of the White Earth Nation. The Daily Beast has reached out to the White Earth Nation and the Chippewa Tribe for comment. Flanagan minored in American Indian studies at the University of Minnesota, and she says she uses that education every single day in her job as lieutenant governor. The foundation I received from American Indian studies and child development absolutely informs the work I do for Indigenous communities, children, and families, she told the university. Flanagan, who previously served as a Minnesota state representative, joined Walz in 2019 when he assumed office as governor. Flanagan has championed Indigenous rights as a part of her legislative agenda. Its always a good day when there are lots and lots of Native folks walking around the Capitol and we start with a drum on the front steps, Flanagan told ICT News during American Indigenous Day this year. This is how its supposed to be. Flanagan and Walz signed a landmark Indigenous sovereignty bill in 2021 which affirmed tribal sovereignty; requires state agencies to appoint tribal-state liaisons and recognize the unique legal relationship between the State of Minnesota; and mandates tribal-state relations training for state leaders and employees. Flanagan could join Gov. Kevin Stitt (R-OK) as the third Indigenous U.S. governor. Former Gov. Johnston Murray (D-OK), who served from 1951-1955, was the first Indigenous governor. Walz appointment could also mean that president of the Minnesota state Senate, Bobby Joe Champion, would become the first Black lieutenant governor in Minnesotas history. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. First Maui wildfire survivors move into Hale O Laie units in Kihei HONOLULU (KHON2) The first Maui wildfire survivors have begun moving into the Hale O Laie interim housing project in Kihei on Monday, Governor Josh Green announced. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news As of Monday morning, eight households were in the process of relocating to the complex. More are expected to follow this week. Hale O Laie will offer around 150 free hotel-style studios and studio suites to survivors. Over 500 households have applied to these units. Lahaina Small Boat Harbor fuel dock reopens nearly a year later Aside from the Hale O Laie interim housing project, the Hawaii Interim Housing Program also features the Ka Lai Ola project in West Maui. Ka Lai Ola will provide up to 450 modular homes for those ineligible for FEMA assistance once the construction is completed. Lahaina school opens new temporary campus in West Maui To apply, and for more information, visit their website. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. ESCAMBIA COUNTY, Fla. (WKRG) Five Flags Amateur Radio Association in Escambia County was called in yesterday to help transfer communication services to affected areas from Hurricane Debby. The association aims to deliver information to Floridas Emergency Operations Center despite power outages or internet troubles. We were the back-up to the back-up if you want to call it that, to the phones and all other normal communication modes that we have established including the internet, Five Flags Amateur Radio Association Vice President Gene Bannon said. Okaloosa County deputies, civilians heading to Suwannee County for TS Debby relief Bannon and his team will stay on call for the remainder of Hurricane Debby, despite Escambia County not being directly impacted. We were outside the affected area so we were less likely to have any power issues or anything that would cause our communications to be down and we still had to establish communications with the state EOC and other agencies plus our normal communications, telephones, internet, etc., was still all operational, Bannon said. The Five Flags Escambia team also delivers information to agencies including the National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center. If Escambia County were to have severe weather, Five Flags would become the primary backup for communication. UPDATE: Person dead after crash involving Amazon truck Tuesday morning, says MPD Primarily our main focus will be for Escambia County and sharing of operations if we need to with Santa Rosa or Baldwin or whatever counties would need assistance, but our primary focus would be Escambia County establishing communications, Bannon said. The associations service connections can reach any part of the world during an emergency. Five Flags recognizes their goal is to help keep communications channels open, no matter where they might be. Five Flags of Escambia is located in the Escambia County Public Safety facility in Pensacola. Debby has since been downgraded from a hurricane to a tropical storm. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5. Creative-Family / Getty Images/iStockphoto Lots of retirees decide that after hanging up their work boots and clocking in for decades at a job, it is time for a change of pace. That could involve a move, a downsizing of homes or a collection of the two. Retirees tend to be on a fixed income after going on Social Security, tapping into their savings and cashing out any 401(k) or other retirement plans from their places of work. For those looking to rent, it can actually save them money in some states. Learn More: 8 States To Move to If You Dont Want To Pay Taxes on Social Security Check Out: 7 Reasons Future Retirees Should Consider a Financial Advisor When talking about retirees, the biggest factor of course is fixed income, said Scott Orich, an agent with Flyhomes. Retirees all have slightly different circumstances, but one universal rule is they tend to be working with a fixed amount of money that they can spend on living expenses. GOBankingRates asked some real estate agents about the 10 worst states for retirees to rent in the next five years. According to these agents, here is where they should avoid between now and 2029. Earning passive income doesn't need to be difficult. You can start this week. Ohio Orich put Ohio first on his list because, in a recent study by SmartAsset of cities where rent was increasing the most, Ohio was the only state with two major cities in the top 10. Cincinnati came in at number five on the list with a 7.0% increase over 2023, and Cleveland number nine at 6.8%, Orich said. So while rent prices might be lower in Ohio cities than cities in other states, its the rate of YoY increase that would worry me for someone on a fixed income, Orich added. Find Out: Cutting Expenses for Retirement? Heres the No. 1 Thing To Get Rid Of First Nevada Nevada, particularly areas like Las Vegas, might pose challenges for retirees due to limited access to healthcare facilities compared to other states, according to Martin Boonzaayer of The Trusted Home Buyer. The states extreme heat, especially in desert regions, can be uncomfortable for some retirees, Boonzaayer said. Moreover, Nevadas economy, which heavily relies on tourism and gaming, can be volatile, potentially leading to instability in rental markets. Colorado In the opinion of Brett Johnson, the owner of New Era Home Buyers, Colorados increasingly liberal policies have made it a challenging environment for landlords. The states tenant-friendly regulations are designed to protect renters but often result in reduced landlord profitability, Johnson said. Consequently, many property owners may limit the availability of rental units, leading to increased rents. This makes it a less ideal place for retirees on fixed incomes who need stable and affordable housing, Johnson said. Story continues Florida Although Florida is popular with retirees due to its warm climate, it comes with its own set of challenges, Boonzaayer said. Boonzaayer pointed out how the cost of homeowners and renters insurance is high due to the risks of hurricanes and flooding. Additionally, the states high humidity and heat may be uncomfortable for some retirees, especially those with health issues, Boonzaayer added. Floridas popularity also leads to seasonal spikes in rental prices and increased competition for rental properties. Arizona Arizona might look like a paradise for retirees, but rapid growth in places like Phoenix has caused inflated rental markets, said Johnny Austin of Sell My House Now LLC. Healthcare infrastructure isnt keeping pace with this growth, which could result in shortages of medical care, Austin said. Plus, intense summer heat poses health risks for seniors, requiring extra air conditioning costs anyway. Massachusetts Massachusetts landed on Orichs do not rent list because according to another study, this one by Realtor.com, it was found that the states largest city, Boston, not only had an increase of 3.3% in 2024 over the year prior, but it also has one of the highest current median rents at over $3,000. Massachusetts, particularly the Boston area, has a high cost of living and expensive rental market, agreed Adam Chahl, a realtor at Vancouver Home Search. The states healthcare system is excellent, but the costs associated with living in Massachusetts can outweigh this benefit, Chahl said. The harsh winters can also be a deterrent for some retirees seeking a more temperate climate. Hawaii Boonzaayer remarked on how Hawaii is renowned for its high rental costs, driven by limited housing availability and strong demand. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Honolulu is around $2,500 per month, with similar costs for other types of rental properties, said Kwame Darko, the founder of DB Buys Houses. Hawaii has a high cost of living, including groceries and healthcare, which can further strain retirees budgets, Darko said. Despite its beautiful setting and pleasant climate, the financial burden may be a significant deterrent for many retirees. The isolation of the islands results in higher prices for goods and services, which can be a burden for retirees, Boonzaayer added. Moreover, Hawaii is prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes and volcanic activity, which could be a concern for retirees. New Jersey New Jersey is known for its high cost of living, which includes expensive rent and property taxes, said Boonzaayer, noting how these high property taxes often translate into higher rental prices. The states cold, snowy winters can also be challenging for retirees who might prefer a more temperate climate, Boonzaayer added. California California is known for its extremely high rental prices, especially in major cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego, all of which are desirable, yet unaffordable for most people, including retirees. The high cost of living in these areas can place a significant financial strain on retirees who are living on a fixed income, Boonzaayer said, highlighting how even though retirees may not directly pay property taxes as renters, the high costs associated with property taxes and living expenses can lead to higher rental rates. Furthermore, while California has some pleasant climates, it also experiences extreme weather conditions such as wildfires and droughts, which can impact the quality of life for retirees, Boonzaayer said. New York New York is another state with very high rental costs, particularly in New York City, though even upstate areas are becoming increasingly pricey, Boonzaayer said. Boonzaayer described how the states high income and property taxes can indirectly affect renters, as these costs often contribute to higher rental prices. New Yorks harsh winters, characterized by heavy snowfall, may not be ideal for retirees who prefer milder weather, Boonzaayer added. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Worst States for Retirees To Rent in the Next 5 Years Supreme Court of Florida. Credit: Danielle J. Brown The Florida Supreme Court will hear arguments on Sept. 12 in the appeal by voting-rights groups arguing the destruction of a North Florida Black congressional district violates the state constitution. So far, both federal and state courts have handed Gov. Ron DeSantis victories in his quashing two years ago of the Black majority congressional district extending from Jacksonville to Tallahassee. However, groups such as Black Voters Matter, Equal Ground, and the League of Women Voters of Florida will get to make their case next month to the Florida Supreme Court that the district needs to be redrawn to hand power back to Black voters. Despite the voting rights groups pleas, the Florida Supreme Court refused to expedite the case. The timing means the justices decision wont influence the November election, given that ballots have been printed and early voting begun. But the states highest court also denied requests from attorneys for the DeSantis administration to dismiss the appeal. Each side will get 20 minutes to present its arguments. In parallel proceedings in federal court, a three-judge panel sitting in the Northern District of Florida in March suggested DeSantis might have set out to thwart Black voting power in the area to boost Republicans, but decided that didnt matter because they found no bias within the Florida Legislature. For years, voters in CD 5 sent Black Democrat Al Lawson to Congress. Since the Florida Legislature approved the redistricting of CD 5 into a series of white-majority districts, Republicans have won those seats. UPDATE: The Florence Police Department says that Daniel Wayne Murdock has been safely located. FLORENCE, Ala. (WHNT) The Florence Police Department is searching for a missing man who left the area and did not return. Police say that they are searching for 59-year-old Daniel Wayne Murdock, who left the Florence area on July 31. FPD says that Murdock was last seen wearing a black shirt with tan or brown shorts. Murdock may also be driving in a white 2008 Chevy Silverado with Alabama tag #41C0199. If anyone has any information regarding the whereabouts of Daniel Murdock, please contact the Florence Police Department at (256)-760-6610. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. Florida car accident in a canal leaves one lone survivor, 9 dead. Here's what we know A Florida Department of Transportation worker on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, helps to clear debris from the site of an Aug. 5 crash near Belle Glade, Florida, that killed nine people and injured one. Ten people were involved in a fatal car crash in south Florida on Monday evening and only one passenger survived, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office. On Monday, August 5, at around 7:30 p.m., first responders found a vehicle overturned and submerged in a canal near Belle Glade, with only the wheels of the car above water. Four of the 10 passengers were pronounced dead at the scene, six passengers were hospitalized and only one of the six survived. Heres what we know about the crash and where it happened. Where in Florida were 9 people killed in a car accident? Last night in Belle Glade, a tragic crash occurred at the 5800 Block of Hatton Highway, resulting in multiple fatalities. Tragically, Fire Rescue confirmed 4 victims were pronounced deceased on the scene, and 6 were transported to a local hospital where 5 additional victims pic.twitter.com/nyTdZhQCxv PBSO (@PBCountySheriff) August 6, 2024 According to PBSO, the crash occurred in a canal off of Hatton Highway, near Lake Okeechobee and Belle Glade, Florida. Of the 10 passengers in the crash, five were adults and five were juveniles, according to The Palm Beach Post and Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. According to reports from WPBF and ABC, a sheriffs deputy was also injured while attempting to find any survivors in the water. The Palm Beach Post referred to this crash as "the deadliest crash in Palm Beach County in recent memory." "The crash happened just before 7:30 p.m. Monday on the 5800 block of Hatton Highway, a two-lane road that runs through the agricultural lands west of Twenty-Mile Bend, flanked by fields and electrical poles " The Post reported. "A 2023 Ford Explorer was traveling south near Conners Highway when, for unknown reasons, its driver failed to negotiate a sharp, narrow left curve, one so tight that a car and a truck would struggle to make it at the same time." Did anyone die in the Belle Glade car accident yesterday? Yes, nine of the 10 people who were in the vehicle died in the crash. According to reports from PBSO and local news outlets, four people died at the scene of the crash and five of the six who were sent to the hospital also passed away due to their injuries. There was only one survivor. The lone survivor, identified as 26-year-old passenger Jorden Hall, remained hospitalized in serious condition at St. Mary's Medical Center in West Palm Beach, the sheriff's office told The Post on Tuesday morning. The National Transportation Safety Board said it is opening an investigation after an SUV in Belle Glade, Florida drove into a canal late on Monday resulting in at least nine deaths, Reuters reported on Tuesday. According to Reuters, Hall remains hospitalized. The sheriff's department is investigating the accident. "The sheriff's office identified all 10 people in the SUV Tuesday but only released places of residence for some of them. Two of those under 15 who died lived in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and a third in Alexandria, Virginia," the Post reported in an update on Tuesday afternoon. Pamela Wiggins, the driver, died one day before her 57th birthday. Leiana Alyse Hall, 30; Anyia Tucker, 21; Michael Anthony Hall, Jr., 14; Imani Hall, 9; Kamdien Edwards, 5; Yasire Smith, 5; Ziaire Mack, 3; and Naleia Tucker, 23 months. The Post confirmed that Edwards and Anyia Tucker were from Connecticut, while Mack was from Virginia. More on the fatal crash: Nine dead, one injured after SUV tumbles into canal in farm fields northeast of Belle Glade Where is Belle Glade FL? Belle Glade is a town on the west side of Palm Beach County, near the south side of Lake Okeechobee. Belle Glade is about an hour west of West Palm Beach by car a little over 40 miles away. Contributing: Julius Whigham II, The Palm Beach Post This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Florida car crash in a canal leaves one survivor, 9 dead. What we know U.S. Rep. Cory Mills. (Provided/SC Republican Party) COLUMBIA A Florida congressman and Army veteran will headline this years Silver Elephant Gala, the state Republican Party announced Tuesday. U.S. Rep. Cory Mills, who was first elected in 2022, will speak at the Aug. 17 event, which is the partys largest fundraising event each year. Congressman Mills has been an avid defender of our countrys freedoms long before he became a member of the U.S. Congress, state GOP Chairman Drew McKissick said in a news release. Hes stood in the gap, time and time again, to protect and help Americans whove been left behind due to the failures of the Biden/Harris administration. Mills, an Army combat veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, has focused much of his work on foreign affairs and disputes. He represents Floridas 7th District, which spans suburban areas between Orlando and Daytona Beach. In 2021, before he took office, Mills helped extract an American family from Afghanistan in 2021 as troops withdrew. He traveled to Israel to help evacuate American citizens after the Oct. 7 attacks last year by Hamas militants. In March, Mills helped Americans flee Haiti amid a wave of gang violence. Mills also spoke at a stop the steal rally in Dallas in November 2020, repeating the false claim that former President Donald Trump won that years presidential election over President Joe Biden. This is the 57th year of the major fundraising gala, which drew more than 1,300 people last year to hear Trump speak. That was the largest crowd in the dinners history, according to McKissick. Other keynote speakers in recent years have included then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who was previously Trumps press secretary. Then-Gov. Ronald Reagan was the first Silver Elephant speaker in 1967. Other former presidents to give the keynote address include Richard Nixon and George W. Bush. BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) Gas prices in Florida are once again on the rise, but a decline could be right around the corner. Fuel costs rose 6 cents, bringing the state average to $3.46 per gallon. In Bay County, the average cost currently stands at $3.13 per gallon. Moon Jellies and Sea Nettles call for purple flags on Panhandle beaches According to Triple-A officials, U.S. prices for crude oil have declined over the last four weeks, which they say should allow gas prices to decline. In the meantime, officials said there are many things you can do to try and save money at the pump, such as paying with cash instead of a credit card, limiting driving time, and removing excess weight from your vehicles. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. Monroe County prosecutors Tuesday charged the head of public relations for the Florida Keys taxpayer-funded tourism agency with multiple counts of perjury and making false statements regarding billing for a company investigators say does not exist. The charges against Andy Newman, who has handled public relations for the Monroe County Tourist Development Council for decades, come months after an audit by the countys comptroller concluded he was reimbursed tens of thousands of dollars annually for services he claimed were performed by the company. Newman owns NewmanPR, which the tourism agency paid nearly $2 million in fiscal year 2023, according to the Monroe County clerks office. Services he provides include PR production, production supervision, distribution supervision and photography. The Tourist Development Council is funded annually by nearly $60 million the county collects from a 4% tax levied on every hotel and short-term rental room booking in the Keys. For years, Newmans also been billing the county for services for a company called Graphics71, which the clerks office said in its February 187-page audit is the same company as NewmanPR and provides the same services under the scope of Newmans contract with the tourism agency. Thousands billed to county for non-existent company In other words, NewmanPR used a nonexistent company as a conduit to claim they made payments eligible for reimbursement when, in fact, no payments were made for there to be valid reimbursable expenses, the report states. The President of NewmanPR appeared to use this nonexistent company as a method to pay himself in addition to the agency fee NewmanPR received monthly from Monroe County, the report states. Kevin Madok, the county comptroller, said that in fiscal year 2023, the county reimbursed Newman $31,965 for services he said were performed by Graphics71. Newman countered, however, that the actual number was $10,634. Newman, who could not immediately be reached for comment for this story, called the allegations in the audit absolutely false when the Herald reported about the investigation in February. Newmans attorney, Russell Yagel, did not immediately respond for a request for comment from the Miami Herald Tuesday. Monroe County State Attorney Dennis Ward launched his own investigation in the wake of the audit that uncovered a series of false declarations made by Newman concerning payments issued to Graphics71, his office said in a statement Tuesday. Our investigation underscores the seriousness of these offenses. Integrity and honesty are cornerstones of public service, and we are committed to prosecuting those who engage in deceitful practices that undermine public trust, Ward said in a prepared statement. Newman is charged with 14 counts of perjury when not in an official proceeding a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in county jail, and 14 counts of issuing false statements, a second-degree misdemeanor that carries a sentence of up to six months in jail. As of Tuesday afternoon, Newman had not been booked into jail. A county judge set his bond at $105,000, according to an order obtained by the Herald. Ward told the Herald that Yagel said Newman would turn himself in. This is a breaking news story that will be updated as more information becomes available. Just three years ago, there were about 370 students in Florida Techs flight training program. This year, there will be close to 700 students. Florida Tech President Dr. John Nicklow told WFTV, We know, I think generally about the pilot shortage across the country, across the world. And our pilot program is working to meet that need, and its grown 80% in the last three years. So, we have a need. Its one of our highest demand programs. Read: OCPS eyes contingency plans in case two schools dont open And on Tuesday, four brand new Piper Pilot 100i aircraft rolled up to the Florida Tech aviation hangar in Melbourne. The aircraft will support the schools flourishing flight training program. Read: Lake County Sheriffs Office provides updates on injured deputies A $1,000,000 grant from the Emil Buehler perpetual trust will also allow Florida Tech to purchase new training simulators. Read: Woman charged in ambush attack on Lake County deputies makes first court appearance Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Florida tire shop employee dies after tire exploded while he was filling it with air: deputies Florida tire shop employee dies after tire exploded while he was filling it with air: deputies TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) A Florida tire shop employee died after a tire exploded while he was inflating it on Monday afternoon. Deputies were called to the A-Expert Tire and Automotive Service at 8794 Alico Road in Fort Myers around 12:50 p.m. for reports of a possible death, the Lee County Sheriffs Office said. When officials arrived, medics said the employee, Richard Vallini, was inflating a tire when it exploded and struck him. He suffered severe head trauma from the explosion and was pronounced dead, LCSO said. Hurricane Debby blew $1 million worth of cocaine onto Florida beach According to the sheriffs office, deputies spoke with an employee who witnessed the incident. He said he saw Vallini filling large tires with air before he went inside the shop. The witness returned shortly after to help Vallini relieve air pressure from the tire when it suddenly blew off the rim and struck Vallini in the head. Deputies said the tire also hit the witness in the leg before he yelled for help. Another employee called first responders as the witness held towels against Vallinis head. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. The leader of Floridas higher education system is directing the states universities to take aim at antisemitism and anti-Israel bias in their classrooms, in a move that some critics fear will threaten academic freedom. Ray Rodrigues, chancellor of the state university system, sent an email to university presidents Friday outlining a two-pronged approach for reviewing courses with a focus on those that tackle topics like Israel, Palestine and Zionism. Rodrigues did not define the terms antisemitism and anti-Israel bias in his message. But it appears faculty members will be at least partly responsible for reviewing their own courses, with guidance from the state university system, and guaranteeing course material doesnt step over the line. Universities are to report any instances of antisemitism or anti-Israel bias to the state university system, Rodrigues message said. The most important thing is that we get this right, he wrote. The state university system did not respond to questions from the Orlando Sentinel about Rodrigues message, including how antisemitism and anti-Israel bias would be defined and what prompted the review. Some faculty members expressed alarm about the effort Monday, saying the state is cultivating an atmosphere of self-censorship, among professors who fear facing disciplinary action if they say the wrong thing. Its really insidious, said Robert Cassanello, the chair of the faculty union at the University of Central Florida. As a tenured faculty member, Cassanello said he doesnt feel he needs to limit the topics hell discuss in his U.S. History courses, which cover topics like civil rights and Jim Crow laws. But he fears others might limit their curriculum and classroom discussion. He also said he worries universities might cancel courses that touch on sensitive or controversial topics. As conservatives nationwide spent the last few years fighting diversity-focused measures like affirmative action, Florida leaders have homed in on what is taught in classrooms. Two years ago, lawmakers passed HB 7, also known as the STOP Woke Act, which banned the teaching of critical race theory in state universities, colleges, and K-12 schools. A federal appeals court ruled earlier this year that a portion of that law that applied to diversity- and race-based discussions in private businesses is unconstitutional. With tensions flaring between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian protestors on college campuses across the country, Florida leaders also have sought to distinguish the states schools from institutions elsewhere that faced accusations of harboring antisemitism, offering to waive certain admission requirements for Jewish students who faced hostility at out-of-state institutions. And earlier this summer, lawmakers decried the use of a textbook at Florida International University that came with an online quiz that was deemed anti-Israel. The multiple-choice questions included, When Israelis practice terrorism, they often refer to it as [blank], the website Coral Springs Talk reported, with possible answers like proactive attacks and terrorist defensive strategy. State Rep. Randy Fine, a Brevard County Republican, described the book, Terrorism and Homeland Security, as virulently antisemitic, and vowed to find out whether other state institutions were using it or any other instructional materials by its publisher, Cengage. At FIU, the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice stopped using the problematic material and started searching for new resources, Coral Springs Talk reported. State colleges also swiftly inventoried their campuses to determine whether any were using the Cengage book, said Kathleen Plinske, speaking on behalf of the Florida College Council of Presidents last month at a meeting of the Florida Board of Education meeting, which oversees the state college system. Within one week, all 28 institutions confirmed they did not use the book or would select new materials for the Fall semester, said Plinske, the president at Valencia College in Orlando. Antisemitism has no place in Florida and certainly not on our college campuses, Plinske said. Our students deserve the best in instruction and that includes the highest quality instructional material with subject matter free from any trace of antisemitism or any form of discrimination. Rodrigues message to the university presidents did not mention the FIU controversy. During the past legislative session, Florida lawmakers approved a state standard defining antisemitism that spells out several specific examples, such as calling for the killing or harming of Jewish people; making dehumanizing stereotypical allegations about Jewish people; and holding Israel to a standard of behavior not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation. The law specifically excludes criticism of Israel that is similar to criticism of other countries. In his email, Rodrigues called on university presidents to determine if faculty committees on their campuses can review course materials before the fall semester starts later this month. Secondly, Rodrigues wrote, universities should develop a process for faculty members to attest they have reviewed all of the materials for every course they teach. The Board of Governors is flagging for review courses with descriptions or syllabi that include the keywords Israel, Israeli, Palestine, Palestinian, Middle East, Zionism, Zionist, Judaism, Jewish or Jews, he added. This process will ensure that all universities are reviewing the same courses, and nothing falls through the cracks, Rodrigues wrote. anmartin@orlandosentinel.com As global markets react to a mix of economic data and shifting investor sentiment, the Euronext Amsterdam has shown resilience amidst broader European market fluctuations. In this context, dividend stocks can offer a stable income stream, especially when selected for their strong fundamentals and attractive yields. A good dividend stock in today's market is characterized by consistent earnings, robust cash flow, and a commitment to returning value to shareholders. These factors are particularly relevant given recent economic uncertainties and interest rate movements. Top 5 Dividend Stocks In The Netherlands Name Dividend Yield Dividend Rating Koninklijke Heijmans (ENXTAM:HEIJM) 3.58% Aalberts (ENXTAM:AALB) 3.35% Signify (ENXTAM:LIGHT) 7.26% Randstad (ENXTAM:RAND) 5.47% ING Groep (ENXTAM:INGA) 7.41% Acomo (ENXTAM:ACOMO) 6.94% Click here to see the full list of 6 stocks from our Top Euronext Amsterdam Dividend Stocks screener. Here's a peek at a few of the choices from the screener. Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: Overview: Aalberts N.V. provides mission-critical technologies for the aerospace, automotive, building, and maritime sectors and has a market cap of 3.73 billion. Operations: Aalberts N.V. generates revenue from two main segments: Building Technology (1.74 billion) and Industrial Technology (1.49 billion). Dividend Yield: 3.3% Aalberts N.V. recently reported a decline in sales and net income for H1 2024, with sales at 1.62 billion and net income at 149.2 million. Despite this, the company maintains a reasonable payout ratio of 41%, ensuring dividends are well covered by earnings and cash flows (cash payout ratio: 60.4%). However, its dividend payments have been volatile over the past decade. The stock trades below estimated fair value but yields lower than top-tier Dutch dividend payers (3.35%). ENXTAM:AALB Dividend History as at Aug 2024 Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: Overview: Acomo N.V., with a market cap of 491.06 million, operates through its subsidiaries to source, trade, process, package, and distribute conventional and organic food ingredients and solutions for the food and beverage industry across the Netherlands, Europe, North America, and internationally. Operations: Acomo N.V.'s revenue segments include Tea (124.04 million), Edible Seeds (246.52 million), Food Solutions (23.47 million), Spices and Nuts (445.76 million), and Organic Ingredients (429.28 million). Story continues Dividend Yield: 6.9% Acomo N.V.'s recent H1 2024 earnings report showed stable sales at 668.2 million, but net income decreased to 17.94 million from 22.16 million a year ago, impacting its dividend sustainability. The company declared a cash dividend of 0.40 with an ex-div date of July 29, 2024. Despite a high payout ratio (95.7%), Acomo's dividends are covered by cash flows (cash payout ratio: 51%). However, its dividend payments have been volatile and not consistently reliable over the past decade. ENXTAM:ACOMO Dividend History as at Aug 2024 Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: Overview: ING Groep N.V. offers a range of banking products and services across the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, other parts of Europe, and internationally, with a market cap of 48.18 billion. Operations: ING Groep N.V. generates revenue through several segments, including Retail Banking in the Netherlands (4.97 billion), Belgium (2.61 billion), Germany (2.97 billion), and Other regions (4.14 billion), as well as Wholesale Banking (6.69 billion) and the Corporate Line segment (334 million). Dividend Yield: 7.4% ING Groep's Q2 2024 earnings revealed a decline in net interest income to 3.83 billion and net income to 1.78 billion compared to last year, impacting dividend sustainability. Despite this, the company affirmed an interim dividend of 0.35 per share for H1 2024, payable on August 12. Although the payout ratio is reasonable at 69.8%, ING's dividends have been unreliable and volatile over the past nine years, raising concerns about long-term stability for dividend investors. ENXTAM:INGA Dividend History as at Aug 2024 Summing It All Up Navigate through the entire inventory of 6 Top Euronext Amsterdam Dividend Stocks here. Hold shares in these firms? Setup your portfolio in Simply Wall St to seamlessly track your investments and receive personalized updates on your portfolio's performance. Simply Wall St is a revolutionary app designed for long-term stock investors, it's free and covers every market in the world. Searching for a Fresh Perspective? This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include ENXTAM:AALB ENXTAM:ACOMO and ENXTAM:INGA. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com (FOX40.COM) A California Assembly member is requesting the California Department of Fish and Wildlife investigate the treatment of animals at a Sacramento County aquarium. Assemblyman Josh Hoover, who represents the City of Folsom, sent a letter to CDFW director Charlton Bonham to launch an investigation into the operations at SeaQuests Folsom location. An investigative report from ABC 10 caused concern within Hoovers office about allegations of substantial violations of animal welfare standards, according to his letter. CDFW plays a critical role in safeguarding animal welfare and public safety within our state, Hoover continued in his letter to the director. Suspect in Sacramento rapper murder case convicted of first-degree murder SeaQuest describes itself as an interactive aquarium and has seven locations across the country, with Folsom being its only California location. Some of the allegations Hoover outlined in his letter that were mentioned in the ABC 10 investigative piece include; Lack of distance and boundaries between animals and customers Continuing public interactions with otters after veterinarian directed staff not to until otters received rabies shots Failing to properly feed multiple animals at the facility Hoover is asking for the CDFWs intervention as they are the body responsible for issuing permits and overseeing operations for businesses like SeaQuest in California. It is imperative that CDFW investigate these allegations thoroughly to ensure that SeaQuest Folsom is compliant with all relevant state laws and regulations, Hoover continued in his letter. SeaQuest Folsom opened in Nov 2018 at 430 Palladio Pkwy #1801. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. SOUTHERN TIER, N.Y. (WETM) The Food Bank of the Southern Tier is getting a grant to purchase new equipment. New York State Senator Lea Webb announced that the organization will be getting $400,000 from New York State through the Community Resiliency, Economic Sustainability, and Technology Program. These tax funds will be used to buy heat pumps, a tractor-trailer, and other warehouse and logistics equipment. Elmira Heights business advances in Coolest Thing Made in New York contest As the only food bank in the region, the Food Bank of the Southern Tier is vital to our emergency food system, and it is crucial that they are well-equipped to meet the needs of our community, said Webb. I am proud to deliver this funding to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, which will support critical infrastructure upgrades and sustain the organizations mission of eliminating hunger throughout the Southern Tier. According to President and CEO of the Food Bank of the Southern Tie Mark Bordeau, the new purchases will upgrade the Food Banks heating and air conditioning systems and make the 65,000-square-foot warehouse where staff and volunteers package millions of pounds of food every year more comfortable. The organization will also be able to upgrade its truck fleet, which transports food from Elmira Heights to six counties. Tour de Keuka charity bike ride raises $100,000 Many people think funding food is the answer, but we also need the infrastructure to store and deliver that food, like the forklifts and trucks our team uses daily, and we are so grateful Senator Webb is supporting these needs, said Bordeau. The Food Bank of the Southern Tier serves Broome, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga, and Tompkins counties and covers nearly 4,000 square miles. The organization feeds more than 31,000 people who are facing food insecurity each week. The Food Bank estimates that itll distribute more than 18 million pounds of food in 2024. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. HONOLULU (KHON2) Just in time for the Summer Games in Paris we had some wonderful pastries from a French chef on Food2Go Tuesday morning. Chef Urielle Mounin brought a world of experience as the executive pastry chef with Hilton Hawaiian Village. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You I am originally from France, and I also attended culinary school there at the Anne Sophia Pic school in Toulon, Chef Mounin said. After receiving my training, I worked as a pastry chef at several restaurants and hotels in the Maldives, Switzerland, Australia, and French Polynesiawhere I worked most recently at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui as their head pastry chef. The Kahala Hotel and Resorts new offerings The Red Velvet Croissant is Chef Mounins signature croissant. My signature croissant, the Red Velvet, is filled with a cream cheese and mascarpone mixture, and topped with black sesame seeds. This croissant was inspired by the enthusiasm surrounding red velvet cake, so I wanted to create an American croissant with a French touch. Customers love it; theyre crazy about it! she said. Locals and visitors can find Chef Mounins creations in Waikiki. I recently revamped the dessert menu at our signature restaurant, Bali Oceanfront. My pastries can also be found at the resorts Wiki Wiki Market, and are now available at Hilton Hawaiian Village at a newer space in the lobby area called Chee Hoo Patisserie. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) Hoosier National Forest supervisor, Mike Chaveas, issued a forest order prohibiting the possession of an alcoholic beverage for the Rainbow Lake Recreation Area near Derby, Indiana in Perry County. The Forest Service states this order was placed due to recent events that illuminated that alcohol use had become a contributing factor to vandalism and other undesirable and dangerous activity. Officials also state a previous order banning alcohol at the beach area, shelter, picnic area, parking lot and surrounding vicinity at the German Ridge Recreation Area had been in effect and was renewed by this order. It is important that visitors to the national forest can enjoy their public lands responsibly, and this order will be an important tool in helping us achieve a safer, family-friendly atmosphere for visitors to German Ridge and Rainbow Lake Recreation Areas, places that are key assets to local communities, Chaveas said. We continue to ask the publics assistance in reporting any suspicious activity to law enforcement by calling or texting the information to the forests law enforcement tip line at 618-201-3364. Callers may remain anonymous, but please relay the location and description of the activity. For more information, people are asked to contact Hoosier National Forest, Tell City Ranger District Office at 812-547-7051. Courtesy: Forest Service Eyewitness News. Everywhere you are. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). Former Army contracting officer in Mass. sentenced in connection with conspiring to defraud the government BOSTON (WWLP) A former contracting officer for the Department of Defense was sentenced to prison in connection with conspiring to defraud the government of thousands of dollars from 2014 to 2018. Colombia man sentenced to Massachusetts prison for money laundering According to the Justice Department in Boston, 61-year-old Thomas Bouchard of Uxbridge was a contracting officer in charge of the U.S. Army Natick Contracting Division, a full-service contracting organization for the Department of Defense. In 2014 he allegedly hired Chantelle Boyd for a no show job as an assistant with Evolution Enterprise, Inc. Bouchard allegedly altered, created, and approved false travel to reimburse Boyd for out-of-pocket expenses. Bouchard and Boyd took numerous government-funded trips, ranging in duration from two to 15 days, stating that they were work-related. This included 31 trips to Orlando, Florida, Clearwater Beach, Florida, and Stafford, Virginia. Additionally, Boyd made false statements to the grand jury in May 2018 in relation to these trips. Boyd was arrested and charged in July 2020 along with co-defendant Bouchard. Boyds position cost the Department of Defense more than $490,000 during her time at Evolution from 2014 to 2018. Bouchard pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy and 10 counts of theft of government funds. On Monday, he was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison followed by one year of supervised release. Boyd is scheduled to be sentenced on August 14th. Those of us who are privileged to work in public service owe a duty to the taxpayers to act with integrity at all times. This defendant clearly failed in adhering to this solemn oath and abused his position of trust to line his own pockets, hire a friend into a phantom position and enjoy junkets all on the taxpayers dime. He will now pay the price for his inexcusable conduct, said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. GSA OIG special agents are committed to working with DOJ and investigative partners to ensure that taxpayer dollars are properly spent and protected, said Special Agent in Charge Joseph Dattoria of the GSA Office of Inspector General, Northeast Division. Investigating individuals who hold positions of trust and misuse Department of Defense (DoD) funds is a top priority for the DoD Office of Inspector Generals Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), stated Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty, DCIS Northeast Field Office. Todays sentencing demonstrates our commitment to work with the Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners to protect DoD assets and programs. Latest Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Former Dunwoody police office honored in US Capitol for being whistleblower A former Dunwoody police officer who gained national attention for his efforts as a whistleblower just returned from Washington, DC where he was honored for his work. On July 30, Austin Handle, 29, traveled to Capitol Hill, where he spoke in front of a crowd in honor of National Whistleblower Day. It was surreal and an amazing experience, Handle said. Looking back, it was just an honor to be there. Handle was fired from the Dunwoody Police Department in 2020 after the department launched an investigation into whether he used his patrol vehicles lights and sirens to speed through his neighborhood. Officials accused Handle of lying to them during the departments internal investigation. They also tried to prevent him from collecting unemployment benefits. In 2023, Handle won an unemployment appeal and the Georgia Department of Labor awarded him more than $10,000. State officials ruled that the claims against him were baseless. This is not a problem thats just isolated to Dunwoody, Georgia, he said. This is a problem nationwide. If youre afraid that youre going to be retaliated against for speaking your opinion, especially as a certified peace officer, then at that point, obviously theres a problem in the organization, Handle added. TRENDING STORIES: Handle, who has since moved out of state, is using social media to reach other officers who are faced with similar situations. In fact, he currently serves as a board member for The Lamplighter Project, a nonprofit that serves as a support group for police whistleblowers. People have sought assistance from us in places like Illinois to California and even to the Royal (Canadian) Mounted Police in Canada, he said. We live in a world, where people never know when the right time to speak up is, Handle said. Theyre always told its never the right time. Its never the right place. Its never the right method. I think thats something were trying to tear the barriers down around. Its always the right time to report misconduct; its always the right time to do the right thing. Channel 2 Action News reached out to city officials and the communications director Jennifer Boettcher sent the following statement: The city denies Mr. Handles allegations and will not comment on potential litigation, she wrote. Handle said that he enjoys working with officers on a daily basis, but his heart remains in law enforcement, so he hopes to find a policing job with another agency. IN OTHER NEWS: Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan encouraged Minnesotans to file their taxes, highlighting the state's new child tax credit at the nonprofit Prepare + Prosper on Feb. 5, 2023. Photo by Michelle Griffith/Minnesota Reformer. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz really, really likes maps. The former Mankato geography teacher, now a vice presidential candidate, identifies as a GIS nerd and proclaimed November 15, 2023 as Geographic Information Systems day, writing that an understanding of maps and data helps community leaders and government officials make data-driven decisions governing important policy issues like education, public safety and the environment. Over the past several years Walz has given several addresses at conferences hosted by ESRI, the company that makes leading GIS software ArcGIS. Part stump speech and part GIS infomercial, the talks underscore how maps shaped Walzs understanding of the world as a young educator and member of Congress, and how he now relies on them as the tools to implement the ambitious policy agenda crafted by Minnesotas DFL trifecta this term. The end product of these maps is a more sustainable economy, a more sustainable environment, and lifting up of peoples lives in a way that they can thrive, he said as part of the keynote of an ESRI conference in mid-July. Geography in the classroom and in Congress Walz said he was an early adopter of GIS software in the 1990s, using it, among other things, to teach high school students about the Holocaust. He had his students build maps of the contemporary world using different layers of data that scholars believed could factor into modern-day genocides. They started looking at food insecurity, potential drought, just like the UN was doing around famine early warning, Walz said. In 1993, he asked his sophomores where they thought the next genocide might happen, based on the geographic data. They pinpointed Rwanda. The following year, the Rwandan Genocide occurred. The New York Times interviewed some of the students involved in the project in 2008, when Walz was a U.S. congressman. Walz also criticized his former congressional colleagues for their lack of knowledge about global geography. He spoke of blank stares in an Armed Services Committee hearing when he brought up the Durand Line, referring to the often disputed border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. A geographically illiterate member of the United States Congress is a very scary proposition, he said. All the governors maps Walz says that he now relies heavily on maps to both share information with constituents and to target policy interventions. As a governor, the ability to use what I knew about mapping and the visual display of data to convey complex issues, to affect change amongst people, is really important, he said. The early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when maps of case counts and geographic spread were a ubiquitous part of newscasts and policy discussions, underscored this point. GIS helps build trust, he said. Conveying data to people in a complex way helps to build trust. Walz also boasted about St. Pauls map of lead pipes that allows homeowners to look up their addresses and schedule service to get the pipes replaced. This is the interaction between your map and policies, and a united world and good outcomes for people, he said. Walz also says maps help implement the nitty-gritty details of otherwise abstract policy. You have to have a plan for how were doing power and economic justice and environmental justice, he said. The tools for that plan are GIS. Those tools transfer a vision of a fair society into one that actually has results. At the keynote, Walz shared something called the Minnesota Executive Map Portfolio, a collection of online maps showing data on some of his policy priorities: children and families, the climate and the economy. He spoke at length about a map of peat bogs (Minnesota has the second most of these only behind Alaska); one showing child tax credit filing versus eligibility (we had to get out there and find out whos not filing for taxes and break it down to the street level); and a map of youth job skills training rates (matched up with the employers who are there, overlaid with our high school graduation rates, means fewer students drop through the cracks.) Walz also has strong feelings about maps hes not particularly fond of. In 2023, he told an ESRI audience that we need to find the first person who put that red-blue map up and beat the hell out of them for putting that on, because it divided the country. And it did not show the nuance that GIS shows. Those red and blue maps were the subject of off-the-cuff remarks that became infamous among Walzs Republican opponents. In 2017, he was speaking at a candidate roundtable on comedy show T2P2 when he brought up the urban-rural partisan divide. You see those maps. Red and blue and theres all that red across there. And Democrats go into depression over it. Its mostly rocks and cows that are in that red area because of demographics, he said. Im a geographer. But it doesnt change the fact that moving toward an urban population left a lot of areas where they were wondering, Where was the person speaking for them?' Republicans circulated an abbreviated clip of the rocks and cows comment and turned it into an attack line. But overall, Walz tends to speak rapturously about the power of good maps to bring about social change. I know Im preaching to the choir, but the choir needs to sing, he told ESRI in 2024. This stuff works. This stuff makes a difference. The map is wonderful to look at. Its exciting. As an ESRI executive put it while introducing Walz to the crowd of GIS enthusiasts and map nerds: Hes one of us. Editors note: This article has been updated to include an additional statement from the Atlantis Leadership Academys director. KENTUCKY (FOX 56) A London Times investigation took an unexpected turn, revealing that former Gov. Matt Bevins adopted son was one of the three boys left behind at a Jamaican troubled-teen boarding school. During his time in office, the Republican aimed to reform the Commonwealths adoption and foster care systems due to his familys experience with the adoption process to ensure no child slipped through the cracks. In a 2017 KET interview, Bevin and his now-estranged wife, Glenna, detailed their adoption experience and how their family grew to include four children from Ethiopia. RELATED: One of these children, now 17 years old, is part of an international spectacle after he and seven other boys were removed from the Atlantis Leadership Academy (ALA) in Jamaica. A July 13 London Times article detailed the abusive conditions that allegedly led to staff arrests, the school director to flee, and ultimately captured the attention of the hotel heiress Paris Hilton. FOX 56 spoke with ALA founder and director, Randall Cook, regarding the allegations. Regarding me fleeing; I absolutely did not, nor would not have ever considered fleeing. As it relates to our Court hearings and Government; all legal obligations had been 100% completed and satisfied. My physical departure was required in direct proportion to death threats and other received content that came about due to reckless collusion by celebrities, activists and journalists. As we move forward legally, my movements will simply be recognized, no questions asked and just like much of this will be another empty salacious accusation. Further, this was never deemed by any authorities as a raid. It has been characterized by the Government as an unannounced visit, which we have had multiple over the years with a very healthy relationship with the Government of Jamaica, our host Country. Randall Cook The academy markets itself to parents promising to be the perfect location for healing, and to return their sons free from anger and depression and shaped into confident leaders. However, the London Times reports some boys returning only broken and lost. Within the article, all of the childrens names have been changed to aliases. However, it details one boy called Noahs relationship with his adoptive father, the former governor of Kentucky. The article claims that Bevins son was sent to a facility in Florida in 2019 and then to ALA last year. Those enrolled at ALA reported suffering beatings, cruel punishments, lack of food, filthy conditions, and lack of communication with their families, per the London Times. But when the school was disbanded, the Bevins allegedly didnt show up for custody hearings in April and he was left a ward of Jamaica. Read more of the latest Kentucky news The London Times claims that Bevins son said he was not surprised no one came for him and believed he was adopted for public image. Its unclear if he is home with the Bevin family at this time. Hilton, herself ripped from her bed in the middle of the night and promised healing, growth, and support in a program similar to ALA, attended the boys court hearings. Because of what I went through in the Troubled Teen Industry, when I heard that seven American boys asked if I would attend their court hearing in Jamaica after being saved from Atlantis Leadership Academy due to horrific abuse allegations including being violently beaten, whipped, waterboarded, and starved, Hilton said on social media. I knew I needed to show up for them. These children deserve to have people show up for them in their life and it makes me so proud that I was able to be there and tell them that I believed them and that they matter. Cook also spoke about the Bevin familys involvement. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: In the spirit of just sincere humanity, the Bevins did not and were not responsible for what hell on earth was thrown on their family by Paris Hilton and her conspirators, regardless of any politics, this isnt right. And to be honest, we did not care, nor do we today that he was a politician. That is not our wheelhouse. We treat every family the same, Cook said. Cook went on to claim that the Bevins are victims of Hiltons media agenda. The Bevins and many other people are simply the residue of this machines progress, Cook told FOX 56. FOX 56 has reached out to Bevin and his attorney for a statement but has yet to receive a response. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) A Houston County Deputy is facing theft charges related to a bank robbery from nearly two years ago, sources confirmed to WDHN. Houston County Court Clerk Carla Woodall tells WDHN Chris Summerlin turned himself in Monday afternoon and was booked into the Houston County Jail on theft of property in the second degree. He was released from jail on a $5,000 bond. Shortly before Summerlin turned himself in, RickeyStokesNews reported Summerlin had been fired from the Houston County Sheriffs Office Criminal Investigation Division after an internal investigation into missing money. According to RSN, the money, totaling nearly $5,000, was recovered from a 2022 Ashford bank robbery, and the alleged robber, Sterling Howard, was recently sentenced to life in prison. RSN claims that after a Houston County Judge sentenced Howard, an effort was made to return the nearly $5,000 to MidSouth Bank, but it was discovered approximately $2,200 was missing. Summerlins booking photo was not available on the Houston County Jail website. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. It's common for many investors, especially those who are inexperienced, to buy shares in companies with a good story even if these companies are loss-making. But the reality is that when a company loses money each year, for long enough, its investors will usually take their share of those losses. While a well funded company may sustain losses for years, it will need to generate a profit eventually, or else investors will move on and the company will wither away. So if this idea of high risk and high reward doesn't suit, you might be more interested in profitable, growing companies, like Allianz Malaysia Berhad (KLSE:ALLIANZ). While this doesn't necessarily speak to whether it's undervalued, the profitability of the business is enough to warrant some appreciation - especially if its growing. Check out our latest analysis for Allianz Malaysia Berhad How Fast Is Allianz Malaysia Berhad Growing? If you believe that markets are even vaguely efficient, then over the long term you'd expect a company's share price to follow its earnings per share (EPS) outcomes. Therefore, there are plenty of investors who like to buy shares in companies that are growing EPS. Over the last three years, Allianz Malaysia Berhad has grown EPS by 12% per year. That's a pretty good rate, if the company can sustain it. Careful consideration of revenue growth and earnings before interest and taxation (EBIT) margins can help inform a view on the sustainability of the recent profit growth. It's noted that Allianz Malaysia Berhad's revenue from operations was lower than its revenue in the last twelve months, so that could distort our analysis of its margins. While we note Allianz Malaysia Berhad achieved similar EBIT margins to last year, revenue grew by a solid 15% to RM5.4b. That's progress. In the chart below, you can see how the company has grown earnings and revenue, over time. To see the actual numbers, click on the chart. Of course the knack is to find stocks that have their best days in the future, not in the past. You could base your opinion on past performance, of course, but you may also want to check this interactive graph of professional analyst EPS forecasts for Allianz Malaysia Berhad. Are Allianz Malaysia Berhad Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders? It should give investors a sense of security owning shares in a company if insiders also own shares, creating a close alignment their interests. Allianz Malaysia Berhad followers will find comfort in knowing that insiders have a significant amount of capital that aligns their best interests with the wider shareholder group. To be specific, they have RM80m worth of shares. This considerable investment should help drive long-term value in the business. While their ownership only accounts for 2.3%, this is still a considerable amount at stake to encourage the business to maintain a strategy that will deliver value to shareholders. Story continues Does Allianz Malaysia Berhad Deserve A Spot On Your Watchlist? As previously touched on, Allianz Malaysia Berhad is a growing business, which is encouraging. For those who are looking for a little more than this, the high level of insider ownership enhances our enthusiasm for this growth. The combination definitely favoured by investors so consider keeping the company on a watchlist. Still, you should learn about the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Allianz Malaysia Berhad. While opting for stocks without growing earnings and absent insider buying can yield results, for investors valuing these key metrics, here is a carefully selected list of companies in MY with promising growth potential and insider confidence. Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com Former Kentucky governors son claims he adopted him for public image - then abandoned him in Jamaica Former Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin speaks to the media gathered in the Kentucky Capitol Rotunda in Frankfort, Kentucky in 2023. Bevins adopted son accused the ex-governor of adopting him for public image (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) The adopted son of former Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin claims he was used to boost the Republicans public perception during his gubernatorial bid and was later abandoned, according to a report. In 2012, Bevin traveled to Ethiopia and returned with four children including 5-year-old Noah, a pseudonym used to protect the minor, the UK newspaperThe Times first reported. Noah, now 17, claims the Bevins sent him to an abusive troubled teen program in Jamaica. When the Times asked Noah why he believed he was adopted by the Bevins, he replied: Public image. Bevin served as the states governor from 2015 to 2019. After Bevin lost the governorship in 2019, Noah was sent to a facility in Florida and then was later sent to the Atlantis Leadership Academy (ALA) in Jamaica. ALA bills itself as an affordable, structured Boarding Academy serving young men who possess strong leadership skills, though theyve taken some wrong turns in their lives. However, the Times investigation of the facility revealed abusive practices and filthy conditions. ALA was raided in February and the facility has since shut down. But no one came to pick up Noah, he told the outlet. So, a judge made Noah and two other abandoned boys wards of the Jamaican state. Bevins alleged treatment of his adopted son comes into sharp contrast with his gubernatorial campaign focus: improving adoption and foster care practices in Kentucky. In 2015, he told the Louisville Courier-Journal that the state agency that oversees adoption has to be turned inside out, calling it a convoluted, backward, broken machine. Two years later, he echoed this complaint to WKYT in 2017 adding that his plans to reimagine these systems contributed to his gubernatorial bid. Weve made it so convoluted, bureaucratic, confusing, time-consuming, and frustrating that people finally say enough. This was our experience. Its part of why were sitting here. Its a part of why I ran for governor, he told the outlet in 2017. Bevin and his wife Glenna have nine children in total: five biological and four adopted children. Glenna filed a divorce petition in May, claiming the couples marriage was irretrievably broken, according to court records. The Independent has emailed lawyers for both of the Bevins for comment. Former L.A. County school worker charged in sex assault of 2 young boys; DA says more victims possible A 27-year-old South Gate man who worked at dozens of schools and child care settings in Los Angeles County has been charged with the alleged yearslong sexual abuse of two boys, and officials believe there may be more possible victims. Andrew Louie Sandoval is accused of sexually assaulting the two minors, who were between the ages of 4 and 9 years old, on different occasions from November 2015 until this year, the District Attorneys Office announced Tuesday. The abhorrent nature of these crimes against children and the defendants employment in schools and childcare settings is of tremendous concern, and we are asking for anyone who may have additional information to come forward, District Attorney George Gascon said. Andrew Sandoval Officials with the South Gate and Los Angeles police departments said their investigations into Sandoval, who was arrested on July 24, have led them to believe there may be additional victims. As part of an ongoing investigation, law enforcement is reaching out to dozens of Los Angeles County schools and child care centers where Sandoval worked to verify the scope and duration of his duties, the DAs Office stated. Investigators are still compiling a list of all the facilities where Sandoval was employed and said they will release that list once it is verified. Sandoval was charged with seven counts of lewd acts upon a child under age 14, one count of sodomy with a child 10 years old or younger, two counts of oral copulation with a child 10 years old or younger and one count of possession of child pornography. Sandoval was allegedly in possession of more than 600 images of child or youth porn, the DAs Office said. He is scheduled to be arraigned on Aug. 13 at the Norwalk Courthouse and is being held on more than $7 million bail. Sandoval faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. MARLBORO COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) A former Marlboro County deputy is facing charges after allegedly harassing a fellow employee and sending them obscene messages, according to arrest warrants from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Antonio Anquan Alford, 33, was charged Monday with two counts of communicating obscene messages, two counts of first-degree harassment and misconduct in office. He was booked into the Marlboro County Detention Center and then the Dillon County Detention Center. Between October and December 2023, while employed as a sheriffs office investigator, Alford is accused of using information from a GPS tracking device and anonymous text message applications to engage in a pattern of intentional and unreasonable intrusions into their private life, for no legitimate purpose causing emotional and mental distress, according to an arrest affidavit. Alford allegedly sent unwanted, harassing, vulgar and/or obscene messages, the affidavit said. The employee confided in Alford about the unwanted messages shed received, but nevertheless, Alford continued to send additional messages. The alleged acts occurred in Marlboro and Dillon County. Its unclear when Alford stopped working with the sheriffs office. News13 has requested his training records from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy. Download the News13 app to stay updated on the go Sign up for WBTW email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox. Find todays top stories on WBTW.com for the Grand Strand and Pee Dee. Count on News13 for updates. * * * Caleb is a digital producer at News13. Caleb joined the team in January 2023 after graduating from Liberty University. He is from Northern Virginia. Follow Caleb on X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. The now-shuttered Lincoln Pulp and Paper Mill, soon to be home to the worlds largest multi-day energy storage system, in Lincoln, Maine. (Photo courtesy of Town of Lincoln) A major investment may be on the horizon for a former mill town that is set to become home to the worlds largest multi-day energy storage system thanks to a nearly $150 million federal grant. Gov. Janet Mills and members of Maines congressional delegation announced a $147 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop the energy storage system at the former Lincoln Pulp and Paper Mill. The system is designed to enhance grid resilience and optimize the delivery of renewable energy, according to a news release Tuesday. According to the governors office, the sizable grant is part of a larger $389 million regional grant through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for New England states to strengthen the electric grid and advance the use of clean energy. It added that the facility will be the first of its kind in New England and the largest long-duration energy storage project in the world. Form Energy, a green energy provider based in Somerville, Mass., said it will deploy an 85 megawatt battery system at the Lincoln Technology Park with the ability to discharge energy for up to 100 hours or just over four days. The plan includes strengthening the transmission system so it can deliver higher loads of power from renewable sources including nearby onshore wind turbines. U.S. Sen. Angus King, an independent, said the project is a step forward with regards to the increase in extreme weather events in Maine. Hundreds of thousands of Mainers were left without power for extended periods of time after the devastating storms that hit the state in December and January. The new system will also help Maine make significant progress toward its goal of 400 MW of energy storage installed by the end of 2030, the release noted. The regional project, Power Up New England, also promises to upgrade interconnection points in Massachusetts and Connecticut in preparation for an additional 4,800 megawatts from offshore wind energy. The Mills administration said the new infrastructure should provide increased reliability while lowering consumer costs and greenhouse gas emissions. This investment will help revitalize the Town of Lincoln, formerly a mill town, while allowing New England to strengthen its electric grid to allow for the incorporation of new clean energy sources in the future, said Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins. Still very early in the process The facility will not only advance clean energy initiatives, the officials said, but also serve as a potential boon for the community of Lincoln. [T]his is not just an enormous step forward for renewables and strengthening our energy infrastructure, its also a story of renewal for the Lincoln area, King added. The Lincoln mill closed in 2015 after filing for bankruptcy. When it closed, nearly 130 remaining employees were laid off, according to reporting from the Bangor Daily News. Lincoln town manager Richard Bronson welcomed the prospect of cutting-edge technology to create new jobs and deliver clean energy to homes and businesses. Do we hope this thing is coming? Sure, absolutely, but weve had a lot of tire kickers hoping to do a lot of different things. Richard Bronson, Lincoln town manager However, he warned that the announcement comes very early in the process and there remains many details that still need to be ironed out. He said they havent identified a location at the 411-acre mill site and the town knows next to nothing about the plans. We will do everything we can to help this company come on to this mill site, we will be cooperative, but this is way early in the process, Bronson said. In comparison, he pointed to the four years it has taken to work with Biofine Developments Northeast to develop a biofuels refinery. Construction for the refinery is slated to begin at the mill early next year. In general, he described the closure of the nine Penobscot River paper mills, which sat from Millinocket to Bucksport, as equivalent to a Detroit auto disaster spread a hundred miles down the river. Do we hope this thing is coming? Sure, absolutely, Bronson said, but weve had a lot of tire kickers hoping to do a lot of different things. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) A former Niagara Falls police officer pleaded guilty Tuesday to a rape charge, the Niagara County District Attorneys Office announced. Martice D. Porter, 22, admitted to having sexual intercourse with an underage female in 2023. He was charged with third-degree rape. Shortly after he was charged in April, Niagara Falls police announced Porter was no longer with the department. It is an unfortunate and regrettable thing when someone who is charged with upholding the law instead transgresses it, said Niagara County District Attorney Brian Seaman in a release. I hope that the defendant being held accountable will help the victim of this crime move forward. I do wish to commend the Niagara County Sheriffs Office on the diligent and professional manner in which they carried out their investigation. Porter faces up to four years in prison and will return to court on Oct. 8 for sentencing. He will be required to register as a sex offender. Latest Local News Adam Gorski is a Buffalo native who joined the WIVB News 4 team in 2022. You can find more of his work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) The former director of the health committee of a Latino activist nonprofit has been charged with sexual assault and domestic violence, according to the San Francisco District Attorneys Office. Jonathan Jacobo, the one-time chair of the Latino Task Force health committee, has been charged in connection to a 2021 sexual assault in SFs Mission District. Jacobo, 35, was charged with one count of rape, one count of oral copulation by force, one count of sexual battery by restraint, and one count of domestic violence, the DA said. X to shut down SF office in next few weeks, according to report I would like to thank the survivor for her courage to come forward and cooperation with law enforcements investigation, said District Attorney Brooke Jenkins. I would also like to thank the San Francisco Police Departments Special Victims Unit for their thorough and careful investigation. My office will now do everything in our power to ensure that there is accountability in this case. According to court documents cited by the DA, Jacobo met the victim in 2019 when they both worked in the field of affordable housing. Their relationship turned into an intimate relationship, which the victim ended in February of 2021, the DA said. Jacobo also worked as a San Francisco City Hall aide and was described as formerly a rising star in SF politics. Prosecutors allege that Jacobo sexually assaulted the victim on April 3 and 4, 2021 after she had explicitly communicated that she did not want any more sexual contact. According to the DA, Jacobo allegedly assaulted the victim in his home. Jacobo was arrested on Monday and booked into San Francisco County Jail after surrendering to the San Francisco Police Departments Special Victims Unit, according to SFPD. The SFPD will do everything in our power to bring justice in this case, said Police Chief Bill Scott. Our Special Victims Unit has been working tirelessly on this investigation. We urge anyone who is a victim of sexual assault to come forward and report your case to the SFPD. Despite charges being filed, the investigation remains active, the DA said. Jacobo is due to be arraigned on Tuesday. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. Former Donald Trump attorney Jenna Ellis agreed to cooperate with prosecutors Monday by testifying against her co-defendants in the Arizona fake electors case. In return, the charges filed against her by state Attorney General Kris Mayes will be dropped, Forbes reported. Ellis is part of a group of eleven fake electors who plotted to cast false votes for Trump in 2020 and and the first of the 18 defendants to cooperate with the AGs office. In the indictment, a grand jury alleged that Trumps one-time attorney, along with her co-defendants, made false claims of election fraud in Arizona while encouraging lawmakers in the state to change the outcome of the presidential election. Ellis who was indicted on charges of conspiracy, forgery, and fraudulent schemes and artifices agreed to provide truthful information to and testify completely and truthfully in the case in exchange for all her nine felony counts being dropped, Axios reported. "This agreement represents a significant step forward in our case," Mayes said in a statement, per Axios. "I am grateful to Ms. Ellis for her cooperation with our investigation and prosecution. Her insights are invaluable and will greatly aid the State in proving its case in court." Ellis can be charged again if Mayes' office determines she is not providing truthful testimony in accordance with the agreement. Jenna Ellis, in photo provided by the Fulton County Sheriff's Office on August 23, 2023, in Atlanta, Ga., after being charged for alleged attempts to overturn the results of the state's 2020 presidential election. On Monday, the Arizona attorney general's office announced that the former Trump campaign lawyer would cooperate in its election subversion case, in exchange for her nine felony charges being dropped. File Photo via Fulton County Sheriff's Office/UPI Aug. 5 (UPI) -- Donald Trump's former campaign lawyer Jenna Ellis has reached a deal with prosecutors in Arizona's 2020 election subversion case to testify against other defendants in exchange for her charges being dropped. The Arizona attorney general's office announced Monday that it was dropping nine felony charges against Ellis in exchange for her cooperation. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes called the agreement a "significant step forward." "I am grateful to Ms. Ellis for her cooperation with our investigation and prosecution," Mayes said. "Her insights are invaluable and will greatly aid the state in proving its case in court." Ellis was originally charged and pleaded not guilty to nine felony counts in Maricopa County that included fraud, forgery and conspiracy in Arizona's so-called fake electors case to overturn the 2020 election results. According to a copy of her cooperation deal, released by officials in Arizona, Ellis has agreed to provide information to law enforcement and testify "completely and truthfully at any time and any place" while vowing not to "protect any person or entity" through false information or omissions. The agreement also shows Ellis sat for a recorded proffer session in June with the attorney general's office. Ellis was one of eighteen people indicted by Mayes' office over alleged efforts to overturn the presidential election results in Arizona. Ellis was accused of pressuring Arizona state lawmakers to overturn the results in favor of Trump, and urging former Vice President Mike Pence to accept fake electors instead of the actual elector votes cast for President Joe Biden. Former Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani and former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows were also indicted, while Trump was not charged in the case. This is the second time Ellis has agreed to cooperate. She pleaded guilty in Georgia's election case and was sentenced to five years probation and $5,000 in restitution. "If I knew then what I know now, I would have declined to represent Donald Trump in these post-election challenges," Ellis told the Georgia judge in October after her guilty plea. "I look back on this whole experience with deep remorse." JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) A Vicksburg woman pled guilty to stealing park admission fees while she was employed as a Supervisory Fee Management Specialist at the Vicksburg National Military Park (VNMP). According to court documents, Yolanda Ward, 40, confessed to removing cash deposits from a safe and keeping the money for personal use while she was employed as a supervisor at the military park from 2017 to 2019. Justice hearings waived for Mississippi teen accused of killing mother Ward stated that she used the stolen funds to pay her bills and gamble at the local casino. Prosecutors said she also provided the parks stolen funds to her family members to gamble at the casino. Ward pled guilty on Tuesday, August 6 to theft of government funds. She is scheduled to be sentenced on November 4, 2024, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The Department of Interior Office of Inspector General is investigating the case. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. Four men held in Germany over asylum seeker's death in The Hague A police patrol car is parked on the street with its blue lights switched on. Four men have been taken into custody in Germany following a fatal attack on an asylum seeker in the Netherlands, German police said on Tuesday. Carsten Rehder/dpa Four men have been taken into custody in Germany following a fatal attack on an asylum seeker in the Netherlands, German police said on Tuesday. The men are suspected of assaulting a 23-year-old man from Somalia in The Hague in July. The suspects, aged between 19 and 23, live in Germany and were detained near the western city of Wuppertal. The Dutch prosecutors have requested their extradition. The Somali man lived in an accommodation for asylum seekers. On the night of July 21, an argument between him and four men in a pub in The Hague led to the fatal confrontation. The man died shortly afterwards in hospital. Details of how the assault unfolded and a possible motive have not been disclosed. Fox News has promoted journalist Trey Yingst to chief foreign correspondent, the network announced Tuesday. Yingst, who has reported extensively from overseas conflicts and crisis centers over the past several years, is based in Jerusalem and was the first U.S. reporter on the scene on Oct. 7, 2023, following Hamass attacks on Israel, the outlet said. Yingst broke down in tears on Foxs air last fall while reporting from Israel as he described how Hamas militants had slaughtered civilians there. During major breaking news in every corner of the world, Trey has been the eyes and ears on the ground for our viewers since 2018, Fox News Media CEO Suzanne Scott said in a note to staff announcing the reporters promotion. Treys indefatigable work ethic and dedication in multiple war zones has made him an incredible asset to Fox News and we are extremely proud of his first-class journalism. Yingst will also pen a new book based on his reporting following the Oct. 7 attack, titled Black Saturday, the network said, which will include interviews with released hostages, Israeli soldiers and Palestinian civilians, in addition to Israeli and Hamas leadership. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Frederick County officials identify officers who fired weapons, wanted Pennsylvania man who was injured at Super 8 FREDERICK COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) Officials identified the man who was shot at a Super 8 motel last week and the officers who were involved in the incident. The Frederick County Sheriffs Office (FCSO) said that Cpl. Alex Mendez with FCSO and officer Connor Walsleben of the Frederick City Police Department were involved in shooting and injuring 45-year-old Jack Edgar Primmer of Freedom, Pa. FCSO said that just before midnight on Thursday, Aug. 1, deputies were dispatched to search for Primmer, who was wanted on a felony warrant for child sexual assault and abuse out of Beaver County, Pa. Officials said that the charges were believed to have come from the Frederick area. FCSO: Wanted Pennsylvania man shot, hurt by officer, deputy at motel in Frederick During the search, deputies found the vehicle associated with Primmer at the Super 8 on Monocacy Boulevard in Frederick. Officials confirmed that Primmer was in one of the motels rooms. Deputies said that they spoke with Primmer through the motel rooms door. Primmer told FCSO that he was armed and refused to leave the room, leading to a barricade situation. More units with FCSO and Frederick City Police responded to assist. FCSO said in an X post Tuesday that around 12:50 a.m. on Friday, the situation escalated to the point shots were fired. Primmer was injured and given immediate emergency aid. The Sheriffs Office said that responders took Primmer to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center, where he was in stable condition as of Tuesday afternoon. Nobody else was injured. FCSO said both officers who fired their weapons had been with their departments for eight years. Maryland State Police will investigate the incident since law enforcement officials fired their weapons. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. FILE - The tanker Sun Arrows loads its cargo of liquefied natural gas from the Sakhalin-2 project in the port of Prigorodnoye, Russia, on Friday, Oct. 29, 2021. Shipments of Russian liquified natural gas to France more than doubled the first half of this year, according to new analyses of trade data, at a time when Europe has tried to pull back from energy purchases that help finance the Kremlin's invasion of Ukraine. (AP Photo, File) Shipments of Russian liquified natural gas to France more than doubled the first half of this year, according to new analyses of trade data, at a time when Europe has tried to pull back from energy purchases that help finance the Kremlin's invasion of Ukraine. Europe has restricted oil imports from Russia, but natural gas is still allowed. And while companies in France are importing the most, one analysis found EU countries overall imported 7% more Russian LNG, natural gas that has been chilled and liquified for easier ocean transport, in the first half of this year compared to the same period a year ago. Oleh Savytskyi, a founding member of nonprofit Razom We Stand, which campaigns for tougher sanctions on Russian fossil fuels, said the EUs goal of phasing out all Russian fossil fuels by 2027 was appallingly off track. He said countries buying Russian LNG are sabotaging the continents energy transition and contributing billions to Russias war effort. European governments have said banning Russian gas imports entirely would send energy and heating bills skyrocketing and industrial users of gas would suffer, too. The analysis first came from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), a U.S. nonprofit with a goal of speeding the worlds transition to more sustainable energy. IEEFA examined data from Kpler, a shipping tracker, and ICIS, a commodity data provider, both of which also provided their own analysis. The institute said companies imported almost 4.4 billion cubic meters of Russian LNG to France in the first half of this year, compared to more than 2 billion cubic meters in the same period a year ago. The next biggest importers, Spain and Belgium, saw a 1% rise and a 16% decline respectively, IEEFA said. TotalEnergies, the French energy giant that accounted for the largest share of the imports in a list of cargoes between January and June seen by The Associated Press, said it was bound by contracts signed before Russia's Ukraine invasion. And France's Finance and Economy Ministry told the AP that Houthi rebel attacks on ships moving through the Suez Canal have forced a reshaping of LNG imports gas from the Middle East can no longer get easily to Europe, while Russia's route from the Arctic has been unaffected. The ministry noted that France is one of Europe's main entry points for LNG. France and Spain, with seven each, have the most LNG terminals in Europe. At the same time France was importing more Russian LNG, it was importing less from other suppliers including the United States, Angola, Cameroon, Egypt and Nigeria an amount approaching the jump in Russian LNG, according to the analysis. None of those other countries' LNG exports were affected by the Red Sea attacks. Pricing data for Russian LNG isn't public. But it typically sells for a small discount because some buyers don't want it, said Jason Feer, global head of business intelligence at energy consultants Poten and Partners. The extra gas isnt being used by French homes or industry. Demand in France fell 9% in the first half of this year compared to last year. Meanwhile, Frances export of gas by pipeline to Belgium rose almost 10% in the first six months, according to Kpler. Its not possible to tell how much of that export was Russian LNG. What that tells you is people are making money off this trade, said Feer. Russias biggest LNG project is in the Arctic Circles Yamal Peninsula, a joint venture with TotalEnergies, which owns 20%. Under a contract signed in 2018, TotalEnergies is committed to buying 4 million tons of gas from there annually. TotalEnergies said by email that it was legally bound to honor its contracts and will do so as long as Europeans governments deem Russian gas necessary for the European Unions security of supply. Only if new sanctions were imposed could the purchases be suspended, it said. TotalEnergies said its imports of Russian LNG into Europe had actually fallen over the period studied. An EU Commission spokesman said imports of Russian gas fell considerably between 2021 and 2023. A temporary volume increase does not put into question the EU achievements over the past two years, spokesman Adalbert Jahnz said. We have diversified our imports and the bulk of the necessary gas is supplied by reliable partners, such as Norway and the US. But Razom We Stands Savytskyi called for the EU to implement a full embargo on the commodity. TotalEnergies should not have a free pass to keep Europe hooked on Russian gas, he said. ___ The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. CUBA, Ill. (WMBD) Last month, storms ravaged Central Illinois. Fulton County endured most of the destructive damage including homes being critically damaged or fully destroyed, tree damage, and widespread power outage. Monday, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency along with the Office of Homeland Security assessed what damage Julys storms had on Fulton County communities. 223 homes were critically damaged and 3 were fully destroyed. Massive, widespread damage across central Illinois after Monday night storm Those providing support said theres a lot to be done. There was a torrential downpour in a very small amount of time that really impacted all over Cuba, said Michelle Hanneken, a member of IEMA-OHS. So a lot of people had standing water in their basements up to their first floor. Theres been collapsed walls, that type of thing. So thats what were seeing today and documenting. Agencies said they want to make sure residents in Fulton County are taken care of. Today were here supporting all of the teams from IEMA and FEMA and Fulton County, making sure theyre hydrated and have food, and then supporting making sure were getting to all of the all the addresses for the communities that have been affected in Cuba and Lewistown and Canton, said Director of Operations and Ministry at Salvation Army of Canton and Fulton County Sarah Nottle. Communities assessed include Canton, Cuba and Lewistown. IEMA-OHS has also set up a large command post in Cuba to provide support. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. North Fork of the Flathead River at the US-Canada Border. (Photo courtesy Glacier National Park) Cooler weather and some rain led Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks on Tuesday to rescind fishing restrictions on the North Fork Flathead River in late July and loosen some of the restrictions that went into place on the Big Hole River late last week. Starting Wednesday, the hoot-owl restrictions on the North Fork Flathead River will be lifted. The restrictions, which close fishing from 2 p.m. to midnight, had been in place since July 24 and were the first-ever hoot-owl restrictions ordered in the Flathead drainage. FWP said the restrictions were being lifted because air temperatures in the area have cooled, short-term forecasts show cooler nights and wetter weather, and water temperatures have gone back below the threshold by which restrictions are triggered for westslope cutthroat and bull trout. The restrictions had been in place on the North Fork of the river from the U.S.-Canadian border to the forks confluence with the Middle Fork Flathead River. FWP also Tuesday modified some of the closures and restrictions on various sections of the Big Hole River. It put a new fishing closure in place from Saginaw Bridge on Skinner Meadows Road to the confluence with the North Fork of the Big Hole. It also lifted some of the closure above the Tony Schoonen Fishing Access Site, also known as Notch Bottom, though hoot-owl restrictions remain in place from the rivers confluence with the North Fork down to the Tony Schoonen Fishing Access Site. The Big Hole will remain closed to fishing from Tony Schoonen Fishing Access Site to the rivers confluence with the Jefferson, which is also closed to fishing for the time being. The restrictions and closures are put in place based on water temperatures and river flows. If temperatures go above a certain threshold for three days in a row, hoot-owl restrictions go into effect to protect cold-water fish like trout that can make them more prone to disease and death, while flows below certain thresholds trigger full fishing closures to protect the health of the fish. There remain hoot-owl restrictions and some closures on many rivers across Montana despite the recent cooler weather. Find all fishing restrictions and closures on FWPs website. How gas prices have changed in Hattiesburg in the last week Gasoline prices remain at the lowest levels drivers have seen during the summer season since 2021. Prices are lower today by about 4 cents per gallon compared to a month ago. With Hurricane Debby making landfall Monday as a Category 1 storm, drivers should be aware that prices could face upward pressure in the coming weeks depending on the severity of damage to oil and gas infrastructure. Barring any disruptions from storms, which GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan described in a statement Monday as posing low risk to refineries or refined product pipelines, economic indicators point toward even lower gas prices in the near future. A disappointing jobs report last week has sent investors into a selling frenzy, worried over the cooling U.S. job market. The panic has caused the price of oil to drop, one of the biggest factors influencing the price of gasoline consumers pay at the pump. Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in Hattiesburg, MS metro area using data from AAA. Gas prices are current as of August 5. Hattiesburg by the numbers Gas current price: $2.98 Mississippi average: $2.95 Week change: -$0.00 (-0.2%) Year change: -$0.32 (-9.8%) Historical expensive gas price: $4.54 (6/16/22) Diesel current price: $3.53 Week change: -$0.03 (-0.8%) Year change: -$0.26 (-6.8%) Historical expensive diesel price: $5.39 (6/20/22) Metros with the most expensive gas #1. Lihue (Kauai), HI: $5.25 #2. San Luis Obispo-Atascadero-Paso Robles, CA: $4.88 #3. Santa Rosa, CA: $4.87 Metros with the least expensive gas #1. San Angelo, TX: $2.87 #2. Monroe, LA: $2.88 #3. Lubbock, TX: $2.90 This story features writing by Dom DiFurio and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 371 metros. You may also like: People from these metros are looking to buy homes in Hattiesburg Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. Georgia Election Board members appearance at Trump rally sparks debate over code of conduct Critics are raising concerns after a member of the state elections board attended former President Donald Trumps rally on Saturday and was recognized by him during the event. During the rally, Trump acknowledged three board members, including Janice Johnston, who was in attendance. He also named Rick Jeffries and Janelle King, though they did not attend. Channel 2 Action News reached out to Johnston at the state capitol for comment on her appearance at the rally, but she declined to answer any questions. Trump praised the board members during his speech. Theyre on fire. Theyre doing a great job. Three members. Janice Johnston, Rick Jeffries, and Janelle King. Three people, all pit bulls fighting for honesty, transparency, and victory, Trump said. RELATED STORIES: Johnston was seen waving to the crowd, which prompted criticism from some, including Democratic lawmaker Sam Park from Gwinnett County. I think its incredibly concerning in which a majority of the Georgia State Elections Board is demonstrating clear partisanship, Park said. The board has a published code of conduct that states: Members shall be honest, fair and avoid any appearance of conflict and/or impropriety. Critics argue Johnstons appearance at the rally may have violated this code. Janelle King, who was also recognized by Trump but did not attend the rally, insisted her work remains non-partisan. Im working for election integrity. I mean, whatever the president says is what the president says. I think we all know the president says what he wants to say, King said. The board chair, who was not recognized by Trump and did not attend the rally, commented on the issue of conduct, stating that it is up to each board member. He emphasized that he avoids participating in activities that could be perceived as partisan. RELATED NEWS: By Yousef Saba and Sarah El Safty DUBAI (Reuters) -Oil giant Saudi Aramco on Tuesday reported a 3.4% fall in second-quarter profit on lower crude volumes and softer refining margins, yet kept its generous dividend policy unchanged, with $31.1 billion in payouts for the quarter. Aramco posted second-quarter net income of 109.01 billion riyals ($29.03 billion) in the three months to June 30, beating a company-provided median estimate from 15 analysts of $27.7 billion. The company declared dividends of $31.1 billion, including $10.8 billion in performance-linked payouts. Aramco introduced the performance-linked dividends last year, on top of a base dividend that is paid regardless of results, an uncommon practice among listed companies. Aramco, the world's most profitable oil company and top oil exporter, has long been a vital source of income to Saudi Arabia, which is spending vast sums under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 plan to end what he once called the kingdom's "oil addiction." Aramco's dividend provides "a greater transfer of oil revenue to the government and (limits) the size of the fiscal deficit," said Monica Malik, chief economist at ADCB. Aramco said on Tuesday it expects $124.2 billion in total dividends in 2024, roughly in line with previous guidance of $124.3 billion. The performance-linked dividend distributions this year are for the combined 2022-2023 period and are calculated as 50-70% of annual free cash flow, net of the base dividend and other elements. For 2025, those payments will be based on 2024's annual results alone, Chief Financial Officer Ziad Al-Murshed said on an earnings call. The payouts this year were on the upper end of the 50-70% range. After selling 0.7% of Aramco for $12.35 billion last month, the Saudi government still directly holds nearly 81.5% of Aramco and Saudi's sovereign wealth fund PIF holds another 16% of and also benefits from Aramco's dividends. "There are still many ways that the government can extract funds from Aramco, including further share sales," Malik said. CAPEX RISES Aramco's capital expenditure in the second quarter rose nearly 14% year-on-year to $12.1 billion, partly due to investments to maintain crude maximum sustainable capacity at 12 million barrels per day and expansion of its gas business. Saudi Arabia, de facto leader of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, is pumping roughly 9 million barrels per day (bpd), about three quarters of its capacity. It has made cuts along with other OPEC members and allies including Russia, together known as OPEC+. Story continues Brent crude was trading at about $76.7 on Tuesday, its lowest since January, amid concerns about global economic growth. Aramco's shares rose about 1.7% on Tuesday, but are down about 17% this year, trailing the performance of Western oil majors. Lower output and prices have pressured Saudi state finances. The government, Aramco and PIF have all raised billions of dollars in capital markets this year. Al-Murshed said Aramco's $6 billion bond sale last month was not to fund any specific project and the main intention was to reestablish Aramco's yield curve after being absent from the debt market for several years. ($1 = 3.7545 riyals) (Reporting by Yousef Saba and Sarah El Safty; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman, Tom Hogue and Susan Fenton) Gov. Brian Kemp briefs the media on Tropical Storm Debby at the state operations center Tuesday morning. Jill Nolin/Georgia Recorder Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp urged residents of southeast Georgia to stay vigilant in the coming days as slow-moving tropical storm Debby is expected to dump more water on the state. Already, the storm has claimed the life of one Georgian. A 19-year-old Moultrie man was killed Monday afternoon when a tree fell on his home. There were four other storm-related deaths in Florida. The best-case scenario, were going to get another four to five inches of rain on top of what we already had, Kemp said during a press briefing Tuesday morning. The worst-case scenario, we may have another up to eight inches of rain. So unfortunately, I dont believe this storm is done with us yet. Will Lanxton, state meteorologist at the Georgia Emergency Management Agency and Homeland Security, said that worst-case scenario is based on a model that shows the storm potentially stalling off the coast before returning to Georgia Thursday. But Lanxton said Tuesday that the threat of catastrophic flooding in Georgia had likely passed. He said its possible the coast could see rainfall like what occurred during Hurricane Matthew in 2016, when 17 inches drenched Savannah. If we do see that storm track farther inland over the next couple of days, we could start to approach that level, he said. It wouldnt be historic, it wouldnt be catastrophic, but it would be a high-end event. Kemp declared a state of emergency Saturday before the storm made landfall Monday in Florida as a Category 1 hurricane. The state operations center was activated over the weekend and state resources dispatched to south Georgia. By Monday, Vice President Kamala Harris, who is the Democratic nominee for president, had postponed her planned rally in Savannah that was part of a swing through battleground states with her newly announced running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. President Joe Biden approved a federal emergency declaration for Georgia Tuesday morning to help with evacuation and shelter. Kemp said state officials were also monitoring the storms impact on crops like cotton, peanuts, pecans and timber. Were just keeping our fingers crossed right now, Kemp said. Its just going to depend on what area they are in, how much rain theyve gotten, what stage the crop is in, and what kind of wind damage they had. Meteorologists have forecasted an especially active hurricane season, which winds down in late November. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Georgia Democrats are rallying behind Vice President Kamala Harris and her choice of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate for the presidential election. Meanwhile, Georgia Republicans are critical of the selection, splitting down party lines. Not long after the announcement, Georgia politicians shared their opinions on social media. Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene criticized Walzs handling of the 2020 social unrest in Minneapolis, saying Tim Walz did nothing while Minneapolis burned. In contrast, Democratic Congresswoman Nikema Williams, also the chair of the Georgia Democratic Party, celebrated the choice, stating, Now we have a ticket! Georgia GOP Chair Josh McKoon expressed his disappointment with Harriss pick. By picking Tim Walz, she has picked the most far-left radical vice-presidential nominee in American history, said McKoon. He believes this decision will work in favor of former President Donald Trump in Georgia. On the other hand, Democratic State Representative Inga Willis from Atlanta praised the decision. RELATED STORIES: I think that he is respected by multiple coalitions, and I think as we move forward in this race, the differentiator is coalition building versus being polarizing, Willis said. Tim Walz remains relatively unknown to most Americans outside of Minnesota. Kerwin Swint from Kennesaw State University commented on the choice, saying, Hes virtually unknown to most voters outside of Minnesota. Swint mentioned that many anticipated Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro as the pick, given his moderate stance and the strategic benefit of carrying a crucial swing state. Despite some concerns, Democrats continue to support Walz. U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff from Georgia described Walz as a very strong choice, noting his accomplishments as a governor and military veteran. Im looking forward to bringing him to Georgia, Ossoff said. Republicans, on the other hand, are pleased with Harriss choice, believing it highlights her weaknesses regarding crime and immigration. The National Republican Senatorial Committee released a statement asserting, Tim Walz reinforces Kamala Harris biggest weaknesses: crime and immigration. Walz will join Harris on the campaign trail immediately, with a significant introduction planned for the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in two weeks. RELATED NEWS: Sparta residents attend a Georgia Public Service Commission hearing on whether a railroad company can use eminent domain to condemn property in their community, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Charlotte Kramon) ATLANTA (AP) A hearing on Tuesday raised questions about a railroad companys use of eminent domain in one of Georgias poorest areas. After three days of hearings in November, an officer for the Georgia Public Service Commission granted Sandersville Railroad Co.'s request to legally condemn nine properties in Sparta, Georgia. The commissions decision to adopt or reject the officers recommendation could affect property law nationwide. Sandersville, which is owned by a prominent Georgia family, wants to build a line 4.5 miles (7.25 kilometers) long called the Hanson Spur that would connect to the CSX railroad rail line at Sparta, 85 miles (135 kilometers) southeast of Atlanta. The hearing led Sparta property owners to make the drive north. Some of them might have their land condemned, and others were neighbors who dont want a railroad near their backyards. Lawyers representing the property owners and the No Railroad in Our Community Coalition, which formed to stop the railroads construction, say that Sandersville has not met the requirements of Georgias eminent domain law. The law requires the company to show that the railroad will serve a public use and needs the line for business. Although Sandersville brought five potential customers to the hearing, they have not shown signed contracts with the customers or the CSX railroad, lawyers representing property owners said. A spokesperson for Sandersville said the owner has reached agreements with potential customers. Institute for Justice Senior Attorney Bill Maurer, who represents property owners, said that Sandersville is motivated by profit. He pointed to earlier testimony from Benjamin Tarbutton III, the president of Sandersville Railroad Co., describing the expansion as an economic development project. It is a naked transfer of wealth from my clients to Sandersville and its small network of clients, so those companies can get richer, said Maurer, whose nonprofit fights for private property rights against eminent domain for private uses. Maurer added that Sandersville hasnt produced information on basic issues such as costs and expected loads. He also said that the company never contested a 50-page report produced by a railroad consultant that disputed the economic feasibility of the project. But Robert Highsmith, an attorney for Sandersville, noted that state law doesnt require the company to provide the analysis Maurer sought. They only have to show that the line is necessary for the business and public services. Right now, potential users of the Hanson Spur railroad cannot transfer products between areas that are best served by the CSX railroad. They can only truck their goods to the CSX railroad, which Sandersvilles lawyers said is not economical. There are markets that Veal Farms cant reach, Highsmith said. There are markets that Southern Chips cannot reach economically without access to the CSX mainline in East Georgia." Sparta residents also worry that the railroad would permit the expansion of a nearby quarry that generates noise and dust. One resident, Kenneth Clayton, 59, said the quarrys activities caused the ceiling on his home to fall. The quarry is owned by Heidelberg Materials, a publicly traded German firm, and Tarbutton has said the quarry is considering expanding so that the loudest part of its operation would happen farther from its current location. Quarry or not, Blaine Smith said nothing could convince him to willingly give up the part of his land. The property in Sparta has been in his family for several generations. I grew up farming, all of us out in the field, all of that land over there that the railroad is going to cross, Smith said. Now, Smith grows timber on the land and rests by the propertys pond. He and his wife, Diane, live in Maryland, but they come to Sparta several times a year. The couple might move back to Sparta full time, but they also want to protect their land for future generations of Black farmers a small slice of an already declining population of farmers. Diane Smith found Tarbuttons attitude cavalier when he spoke with them. It made her blood boil bad when he sent them notices to condemn the property before he had full legal authority to do so, she said. Representatives of Sandersville Railroad Co. said that Tarbutton tried to reach and agreement with the Smiths and travelled to Maryland to meet with family members. The company has made accommodating adjustments to the railroad in response to their requests, and it reached agreements with owners of nine of the 18 parcels the company needs. Sandersville would be legally required to pay fair market value for any land that it takes through the eminent domain process. But the Smiths said they arent in it for the money. We dont want this in our yard -- or anywhere we can hear it, see it, Blaine Smith said. ___ Charlotte Kramon is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Kramon on X: @ckramon Georgia state election board member Rick Jeffares, one of three members who voted to pass the measure, at a meeting in Atlanta, on 12 July 2024. Georgia state election board member Rick Jeffares, one of three members who voted to pass the measure, at a meeting in Atlanta, on 12 July 2024. Photograph: Arvin Temkar/AP Georgias state board of elections adopted new rules for local election boards that permit them to withhold the certification of a vote in the face of unspecified discrepancies a Republican-led move that could cause uncertainty and confusion after future election days. The five-person board passed the measure in a 3-2 vote. The three board members who voted for it Dr Janice Johnson, Rick Jeffares and Janelle King were praised by name three days ago by Donald Trump at an Atlanta campaign rally. The rule was proposed by Michael Heekin, a Republican appointee to the Fulton election board who refused to certify the presidential primary earlier this year. The rule requires local boards to initiate a reasonable inquiry when discrepancies emerge at a poll, and gives the power to withhold certification until that inquiry was completed. It does not define the term reasonable inquiry, nor does it establish strict limitations on the breadth of an inquiry. The new rule essentially makes the certification of election results discretionary, said Democratic state representative Sam Park at a press conference outside of the hearing room at the Georgia capitol. These are Maga certification rules, and theyre in direct conflict with Georgia law, which states in multiple places that local elections board officials shall perform their duties, meaning their duties are mandatory, not discretionary, Park said. Related: How Georgia state election boards proposed rules make it easier to challenge results Debate on the rule centered on how much power state law and court precedent grants to the state board of elections to set rules for local boards. Georgia supreme court case law describes the role of elections supervisors as ministerial with little discretion to declare a vote valid or invalid, said Nikhel Sus, deputy chief counsel at Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington DC. It is contrary to settled Georgia law and would exceed this courts rule making authority, Sus said. The law requires disputes about a vote to be resolved with investigations by district attorneys, courts and other bodies, he said. Board members in support of the rule say that local elections supervisors are required to sign an affidavit declaring that the results of an election are accurate and correct, and that rules should permit elections boards the power to determine the truth of that statement for themselves. The rule is likely to draw an immediate legal challenge so close to an election. By supporting this rule, we are saying that 90 days before the election is not insufficient time, said Democratic board member Sara Tindall Ghazal. I think by supporting this rule, what were saying is that we stand with those who have to sign legal documents stating that this information is accurate, and ensuring that they have whats necessary to stand by that legal document, replied King, a Republican board member. (Bloomberg) -- The German drugstore chain Dirk Rossmann GmbH will no longer purchase Tesla Inc. vehicles for its fleet, citing Elon Musks support for Donald Trump. Most Read from Bloomberg Rossmann, which has more than 62,000 employees and over 4,700 branches across Europe, announced the decision in a statement Tuesday. The closely held company said that while it will continue to use Teslas already in its fleet for sustainability purposes, it will turn to other manufacturers and models for future vehicle orders. Elon Musk makes no secret of his support for Donald Trump. Trump has repeatedly described climate change as a hoax, Raoul Rossmann, the son of the companys billionaire founder Dirk Rossmann, said in the statement. This attitude is in stark contrast to Teslas mission to contribute to environmental protection through the production of electric cars. Teslas chief executive officer endorsed Trump last month on X, the social media service he owns, minutes after the former president survived an assassination attempt. Musk later confirmed that he was donating to a super political action committee supporting the Republican nominee. Rossmann currently owns 34 Teslas within its company-car fleet of 800 vehicles, according to a spokesperson. The company buys roughly 180 new cars a year. Germanys SAP SE announced earlier this year that it would stop offering Teslas to its employees, citing fluctuating prices that complicated the software companys fleet management. Car-rental firm Sixt SE said months earlier that it was phasing Teslas out of its fleet for similar reasons. (Updates with size of the fleet in the fifth paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock speaks during a press conference at the end of her summer trip. The Foreign Minister visits ZEISS GmbH. Bodo Schackow/dpa German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said there is still time to avert a major military escalation in the Middle East, as Israel braces for attacks by Iran and its regional proxy forces. "I urgently appeal to everyone in the region to abandon the path of ever-increasing escalation. De-escalation is the order of the day," she wrote on X. "Another war will only bring new suffering on all sides. There is still a chance to turn things around. Escalation is not automatic," she continued. Tensions are high after the targeted killings last week of Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut and Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Both groups have deep ties to Iran. In response, Iran and its non-state allies - include Hamas in the Gaza Strip, the Houthis in Yemen and the Hezbollah militia in Lebanon - have vowed to deliver a punishing attack on Israel. Amid fears of a widening conflict, many countries, including Germany, are urging citizens to leave Lebanon. Baerbock said that there are still opportunities to get out on commercial flights - and that Germans should make use of them as soon as possible. German Minister of Justice Marco Buschmann speaks during a press conference on strengthening the resilience of the Federal Constitutional Court. Britta Pedersen/dpa Germany's Justice Minister Marco Buschmann has strongly warned against travelling to Russia following a major prisoner exchange between Russia, Belarus and several Western states last week. "Nobody has been safe in Russia for a long time," Buschmann told news magazine Stern. "And I strongly advise against travelling to a country where nobody is safe unless absolutely necessary," Buschmann said. "I cannot alleviate anyone's concern that [Russian President Vladimir] Putin will create more political prisoners." The prisoner exchange on Thursday saw Moscow release 16 people - including US journalist Evan Gershkovich and former marine Paul Whelan. In return, Moscow received a number of convicted criminals, including the secret service agent and assassin Vadim Krasikov, who was in prison in Germany for murder. Buschmann said he had doubts about whether the Russian side would keep to the agreement. He said that not even when the plane with the freed prisoners had landed in Cologne/Bonn, they could be sure. Buschmann said that the Russian domestic intelligence service FSB frequently uses poison "to harm people's lives or health directly or indirectly" in a malicious manner. Following the plane's landing in Germany, the released prisoners underwent a medical examination. "That was my biggest concern - that Russia had poisoned them before the flight. But according to what we know so far, thank God that is not the case." German authorities are investigating after a centre-left Berlin politician said his office was targeted by protesters with what appeared to be gunshots. A spokeswoman said police are treating the attack on Lars Dusterhoft's office as a case of damage to property with a political motive. But she said the damage was probably caused by a "sharp object," rather than bullets as Dusterhoft had suggested. Dusterhoft, who serves in the Berlin state parliament, published photos on Facebook of the damage to his office in the south-eastern district of Oberschoneweide. The picture showed a window pane covering a large portrait of the politician. The glass had several markings resembling the cracks of gunshots. Next to the portrait, the sentence "We condemn Germany for genocide" was written on the wall with red paint. "It is clear to me that this refers to the current situation in the Middle East," wrote Dusterhoft, a member of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and a spokesman in the Berlin parliament for social affairs, care and people with disabilities. Politicians in the German capital reacted to the attack on Tuesday. "Dear Lars, we stand firmly by your side!" wrote Social Affairs Senator Cansel Kiziltepe on the social media platform X. "Attacks on parliamentarians are attacks on democratic society as a whole," said Berlin state government spokeswoman Christine Richter. Airbus A400M transport aircraft of the German Air Force park at Wunstorf Air Base. Due to the feared escalation in the Middle East, the Bundeswehr is ready for a major operation to evacuate German citizens. Moritz Frankenberg/dpa Marcus Faber, chairman of the Bundestag's Defence Committee, has expressed scepticism about deploying the Bundeswehr, Germany's armed forces, in the Middle East conflict. Faber, a member of the pro-business Free Democratic Party (FDP), suggested that while Germany should support Israel, this support might be better provided through rapid approval of arms exports rather than direct military involvement. "The Bundeswehr in Israel has not been requested and could be of little help," Faber told the German media group Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland (RND). This debate arises amidst varying perspectives within Germany's political landscape. The Bundestag, Germany's federal parliament, consists of multiple parties with differing views on foreign policy and defence. Roderich Kiesewetter, a foreign policy expert from Germany's opposition CDU centre-right party, had previously argued that the German government should also offer Israel military assistance to defend itself against the threat of an Iranian attack. However, his party colleague Johann Wadephul takes a different view: "As far as we know, scenarios such as military support are not on the agenda. This would require a parliamentary mandate anyway," Wadephultold RND. Jurgen Hardt, foreign policy spokesman for the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, also contradicted Kiesewetter. The Christian Social Union (CSU) is the CDU sister party in the southern state of Bavaria. He told WDR radio that expectations should not be raised that German fighter jets could be used to defend Israel: "I fear that the Bundeswehr would not be in a position to do so, even if we wanted to," Hardt said. He also added that such questions should not be discussed openly, but behind closed doors. Meanwhile, defence expert Andreas Schwarz, a member of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democratic Party (SPD) told RND: "So far there have been no inquiries from Israel. However, I assume that the German government is prepared for this and is in contact with Israel and its Western allies on this issue." Schwarz pointed out that protecting Israel was a matter of German state policy. "This is a clear promise with a very high level of responsibility. In an emergency, these big words must be followed by the corresponding actions," he said. Josef Schuster, president of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, reinforced this view in the RND interview, stating that Germany's historical responsibility for Israels security is crucial, even if not legally binding. "But from my point of view, this of course means that in the event of an attack on the scale that is currently threatened, Germany must also stand by the Jewish state militarily." Volker Beck, president of the German-Israeli Society, called for immediate approval of all arms exports to Israel, advocating for swift action from the Federal Security Council, which comprises the chancellor and key federal ministers. These discussions reflect the complexities of Germanys foreign policy, where historical responsibilities, political alliances, and defence capabilities all play crucial roles. Marcus Faber speaks in the debate on German foreign and security policy in the Bundestag. Michael Kappeler/dpa Marcus Faber speaks in the debate on German foreign and security policy in the Bundestag. Michael Kappeler/dpa Marcus Faber, chairman of the Bundestag's Defence Committee, has expressed scepticism about deploying the Bundeswehr, Germany's armed forces, in the Middle East conflict. Faber, a member of the pro-business Free Democratic Party (FDP), suggested that while Germany should support Israel, this support might be better provided through rapid approval of arms exports rather than direct military involvement. "The Bundeswehr in Israel has not been requested and could be of little help," Faber told the German media group Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland (RND). This debate arises amidst varying perspectives within Germany's political landscape. The Bundestag, Germany's federal parliament, consists of multiple parties with differing views on foreign policy and defence. Roderich Kiesewetter, a foreign policy expert from Germany's opposition CDU centre-right party, had previously argued that the German government should also offer Israel military assistance to defend itself against the threat of an Iranian attack. However, his party colleague Johann Wadephul takes a different view: "As far as we know, scenarios such as military support are not on the agenda. This would require a parliamentary mandate anyway," Wadephultold RND. Jurgen Hardt, foreign policy spokesman for the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, also contradicted Kiesewetter. The Christian Social Union (CSU) is the CDU sister party in the southern state of Bavaria. He told WDR radio that expectations should not be raised that German fighter jets could be used to defend Israel: "I fear that the Bundeswehr would not be in a position to do so, even if we wanted to," Hardt said. He also added that such questions should not be discussed openly, but behind closed doors. Airbus A400M transport aircraft of the German Air Force park at Wunstorf Air Base. Due to the feared escalation in the Middle East, the Bundeswehr is ready for a major operation to evacuate German citizens. Moritz Frankenberg/dpa Gerth: With VP off the table, Andy Beshear could 'help my people' as US attorney general Now that this Andy Beshear for veep talk is over with I told you so! its time to talk about what job the affable governor from Kentucky should get in the Harris administration. If there is a Harris administration. For a couple of weeks now, its appeared that Beshear was running for something. He appeared as Vice President Kamala Harris surrogate in Iowa and Georgia, and he went on MSNBC and CNN to bash U.S. Sen. JD Vance, of Ohio, as the Harris campaign tried to define him after Donald Trump chose him as his running mate. But Beshear had to know that he wouldnt be at the top of the pecking order. What could be next for Beshear? Submit your letter to the editor here Despite the fact that he is well liked and has won three statewide races in a decidedly red state, he really didnt have a lot to offer to Harris. Kentucky won't vote for Harris over Trump Kentucky will never vote for Harris over Trump no matter who Harris running mate is. Put the Lord Almighty on the ticket with her and Trump would still win Kentucky by double digits. But as I pointed out in a column recently, a cabinet post isnt out of the question for Beshear, who has proven himself the good soldier for Harris. When he was asked recently whether he would give up the governors office to become the vice president, Beshear said he would only if I could further help my people and to help this country. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear addresses the VFW National Convention in Louisville, Kentucky, Monday, July 29, 2024 One suspects that answer would be the same for a top cabinet position knowing that all cabinet positions arent created equal. In fact, you could argue that Beshear would be in a better place to help Kentucky if he were a cabinet secretary with real duties rather than as the vice president, who often has no duties beyond attending state funerals and waiting to take over if the president dies or resigns. He might not give up his office to become the secretary of Labor or U.S. trade representative, but attorney general might be a completely different story. That is if Harris wins and chooses to replace Merrick Garland, the 71-year-old former federal judge who appointed Jack Smith to consider charges against former President Donald Trump. As attorney general, Beshear could fix Louisville police If Beshear were wanting a job where he could further help my people, theres not a better position than attorney general. As attorney general, Beshear would be the guy who would be in charge of overseeing a consent decree Louisville will eventually sign with the Department of Justice in an effort to fix its broken police department. On the attack Gerth: Nice-guy Andy Beshear now a street fighter battling Trump's JD Vance Beshear knows firsthand how broken the department is. He was the guy who sent Kentucky National Guard units to Louisville during the Breonna Taylor protests. When police went to break up a party on private property, one officer, Katie Crews, fired PepperBall projectiles at the niece of David Yaya McAtee. It was in violation of department protocol and federal law. Presumably not knowing what was going on, McAtee grabbed his gun and returned fire. Police officers and two guardsmen shot back, and one of the guardsmen hit and killed McAtee. Beshear almost immediately recalled the guardsmen from Louisville and said he prayed he made the right decision sending them there to begin with, and he urged then-Mayor Greg Fischer to release body cam footage from police. Venomous statement Gerth: Mitch McConnell's response to Biden withdrawal shows he's lost any grace he ever had Problem was, police werent wearing body cameras. Beshear couldnt have been pleased at how the whole thing went down and how Louisville police used the guardsmen he sent here. Hes got a personal stake in cleaning up the department. If he could clean up the Louisville Metro Police department, he would clearly further help my people. Joseph Gerth can be reached at 502-582-4702 or by email at jgerth@courierjournal.com. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Harris should hire Beshear as US attorney general if she beats Trump Tourists take photos in front of the Marilyn Monroe statue as temperatures reach 118 degrees on July 8 in Palm Springs. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times) For the record: 12:37 p.m. Aug. 6, 2024: An earlier version of this story said the statue was located in the middle of Downtown Park. It is located just outside the park. After years of controversy and a protracted legal battle, a fixture of the Palm Springs tourist scene is set to move. The Forever Marilyn statue, a 26-foot commemoration of Monroe's famous skirt scene from 1955's "The Seven Year Itch," has drawn the ire of locals and visiting critics alike since it returned to Palm Springs in 2021. It currently stands on the edge of Downtown Park, with Monroe's sculpted back facing the Palm Springs Art Museum. The statue will be resettled in a "location to be determined in the Downtown Park," Palm Springs Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein said in a statement. "The City Council is very pleased to have found a satisfactory solution to this issue, which has divided so many within our community." The statue will not be moving far: the park spans only 1.5 acres, and the statue will be placed within its boundaries. Trina Turk, a fashion designer, was among those who led the effort to get the statue relocated. Read more: Commentary: Marilyn Monroe statue in Palm Springs is an offense to Pride Month The GoFundMe page administered by Turk, which raised more than $115,000 to lobby the city to move the statue, expressed cautious optimism about the decision in a recent post. "There are still many details to be resolved, and a legally binding agreement to be worked out," the post read. "We will not consider this a done deal until the statue is moved to its new location." The statue left Palm Springs in 2014 before returning in 2021. "Good news because good riddance," Times art critic Christopher Knight wrote in 2014. In the debate over the statue's placement in 2021, Palm Springs Art Museum Executive Director Louis Grachos told the council that museum visitors, particularly schoolchildren, would stare at Marilyns backside and underwear on their way to and from the museum. Read more: That huge Marilyn Monroe statue? It's returning to Palm Springs The City Council ultimately approved the statues location for three years beginning in 2021, despite protests from those in the community and critics such as Knight who said it was sexist. It took up residence in a busy section of downtown Palm Springs near the art museum. Knight described the return of the statue this way: "An anti-queer slur was lifted high onto a civic pedestal in one of Americas least likely places." The city's decision to move the statue from its current location dissatisfied some in Palm Springs. On the city's Facebook post announcing the move, the top comments were all from residents and visitors who disagreed with the plan. One wrote that tourists "love taking photos there." "Its a shame you caved to the pressure to relocate her," another wrote. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Goldberg: This is why Kamala Harris is avoiding the press and getting away with it To the surprise of just about everyone, Kamala Harris has had a remarkably good two weeks though whether her selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate ends or extends the honeymoon remains to be seen. Democrats, of course, are pleasantly surprised by Harris' debut. Prior to President Bidens withdrawal from the race, many in the party were exceedingly skeptical that swapping Harris for Biden would improve their chances in November. So far, many of their concerns have proved unwarranted. No ugly, protracted intraparty civil war for the nomination ensued; Harris essentially secured it within a couple of days of Bidens withdrawal. Her past positions havent made her radioactive among swing voters. Her very low approval numbers as Bidens vice president have not carried over to her candidacy. The campaign transition was apparently frictionless: Harris basically just hung a new shingle on the same operation. And any concern that she didnt have time to raise money was erased by a fire hose of donations nearly a third of a billion dollars in July alone. Read more: Column: It's hard sharing a party with Trump or Vance. They taint the right's good ideas It seems it was the Democrats unpopular, senescent, cantankerous candidate who was holding them back after all. Voters hunger for a change candidate one role that cant be played by an incumbent who has been in federal office since the heyday of All in the Family and The Waltons. The chief indication that the Harris team knows what its doing may be its effort to keep the candidate herself under wraps. Sure, weve seen a lot of her: in ads, scripted rallies and a few brief statements. But she hasnt endured an extended interaction with the press since before the June 27 debate that doomed Bidens candidacy. The last time was on June 24 on MSNBCs Morning Joe, hardly a challenging venue for a Democrat. The Harris campaigns decision to avoid sitting down with an aggressive or even particularly curious reporter is not necessarily a sign that it lacks confidence in her (as many critics insist). Even if she were a fantastic off-the-cuff political communicator which she is not keeping her on script for a while makes sense. The longer she can be all things to all people or at least to all persuadable voters the better off she is. Answering hard questions runs the risk of disabusing some voters of who they think or hope she is. Read more: Goldberg: Is replacing President Biden as his party's nominee an attack on democracy? Hardly Also, going back to Sun Tzu or Napoleon, its been a truism that when your opponent is flailing, you shouldnt get in the way. This is particularly true in the Trump era: When peoples attention is focused on Trump, they dont like what they see. And Bidens withdrawal has provoked an eruption of ad hominem Trumpiness from the former president. Last week, Trump railed against Harris identification as a Black woman and then spent a sizable chunk of his rally in Atlanta attacking Brian Kemp, Georgias deservedly popular Republican governor. Why would Democrats want to distract anyone from that? Still, it is disturbing that even as Americans and our allies harbor serious concerns about whether the president is up to an increasingly fraught geopolitical and economic moment, his constitutional understudy has done so little to reassure the public. Less consequential but more outrageous is the press collective complicity in Harris strategy. The vice presidents campaign has wisely flip-flopped on many of the fatally left-wing positions she took during her ill-fated first presidential campaign against fracking, in favor of Medicare for all, sympathetic to calls to cut funding to police departments and so on. But the press shouldnt let her get away with it so easily. If this were a remotely normal time, reporters would be shouting questions like When will you hold a press conference? every time Harris steps off Air Force Two. Admittedly, this isnt a normal time. But that doesn't excuse journalists from demanding more transparency of a candidate who sidestepped the entire primary process. Willingly enabling a campaign strategy is not the Fourth Estates proper role, but even if you think it is, protecting Harris from scrutiny could eventually do more harm than good. Hiding the full extent of Bidens decline worked well for a time. But when the reality was revealed, it came as such a shock that he was forced to drop out of the race. Shielding Harris from scrutiny could also have serious consequences when, unprotected by a teleprompter or a pliable press corps, she produces one of her signature word salads . I dont like the press sudden love affair with Harris. But even if I did, I would counsel some tough love sooner rather than later. @JonahDispatch If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) Goodwill of the Great Plains will be donating to the American Red Cross Disaster Response Spring Storms and Floods. Throughout July, round-up donations received from Goodwill of the Great Plains customers as part of the Round Up at the Register drive were collected to be donated to the American Red Cross to support those affected by extreme flooding in the region in June, according to a press release. Goodwill teamed up with the efforts of the American Red Cross and other support agencies to assist individuals affected by this natural disaster to help make a difference. Goodwill of the Great Plains plans to donate $13,619.57 to the Disaster Response Spring Storms and Floods. This will take place on Aug. 8 at 1 p.m. during a ceremony at the Goodwill of the Great Plains Support Center. Rock Valley estimates 100 homes may be eligible for FEMA buyouts As those affected by the flooding experienced a physical and emotionally exhausting process of rebuilding their lives, Goodwill wanted to help contribute toward the community outreach efforts, said Briget Solomon, President & CEO of Goodwill of the Great Plains. Im constantly amazed by the compassion and kindness throughout our organization and in the communities we get to call home. In addition to the Round Up at the Register initiative, Goodwill distributed additional store vouchers to agencies that provide disaster relief. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. Republicans seized on Tuesdays announcement that Vice President Kamala Harris had selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, launching a flurry of attacks on his record. In particular, the GOP focused on the amount of time it took Walz to deploy the Minnesota National Guard to Minneapolis to quell the civil unrest and rioting in May 2020 that followed the police killing of George Floyd. Tim Walz fled as rioters burned Minneapolis to the ground like a coward. Harris-Walz is the most dangerously liberal (and incompetent) ticket in history.pic.twitter.com/6XrIKkkfa5 RNC Research (@RNCResearch) August 6, 2024 As a result of the unrest, more than 1,500 Minneapolis businesses were damaged, resulting in damages totaling $500 million, according to the Star Tribune. What happened in 2020? On May 25, 2020, Floyd, a 46-year-old Black Minneapolis resident, was killed while being taken into custody by Minneapolis police officers. Floyd was detained for allegedly using a counterfeit $20 bill at a local convenience store. Cellphone video emerged showing officer Derek Chauvin, who is white, pinning Floyd to the ground, holding his knee on the back of Floyds neck as Floyd gasped for air for nine-and-a-half minutes, repeating, I cant breathe. Floyd was pronounced dead at a local hospital later that night. A video of Floyds death went viral, sparking calls for police reform and criminal charges for the four officers involved. On May 26, 2020, large protests started in Minneapolis at the Third Precinct station where the four officers were based. Other protests were held at the site where Floyd was killed. Two days after Floyds death, on May 27, 2020, protests had spread to other U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, New York and Boston. While the protests in Minneapolis began peacefully, looting and fires broke out across the city and police attempted to clear crowds with rubber bullets and tear gas. As local authorities became quickly overwhelmed, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said he called Governor Walz on the evening of May 27 and verbally requested he deploy the National Guard, citing the seriousness and urgency of the situation. "He did not say yes," Frey later said of the conversation with Walz. "He said he would consider it." What was Walzs role? On May 28, 2020, at 10:55 a.m. CDT, Walzs office received a request from Frey for National Guard assistance, in addition to a request received from St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter in the afternoon, according to a timeline provided by Walzs press secretary, Teddy Tschann, to CNN. Just after 4 p.m. local time on May 28, Walz activated the Minnesota National Guard. We are ready and prepared to answer the Governor's request. We are currently in process of assigning and preparing units to respond," said Minnesota National Guard Maj. Gen. Jon Jensen. In the meantime, some protesters set fire to the Third Precinct station, but the Guard didnt arrive until hours after the building burned. Walz was in charge of what time the Guard would arrive in the city, according to a National Guard Bureau spokesman. Walz, who served in the National Guard himself, had called the citys response to the riots and unrest an abject failure, saying the citys request did not immediately provide enough information to deploy the Guard in an effective manner until May 28. Months later, Frey blamed Walz, saying he did not take his initial request seriously. Walz, he added, hesitated to deploy the Guard. During one of the city and states most difficult moments, we collectively tried our best to navigate unprecedented times and to do so quickly, a spokeswoman for Freys office told the New York Times. The frosty exchange between the two Minnesota Democrats appears to have thawed, with Frey supporting the Harris-Walz ticket in a Tuesday post on X. Great pick, @KamalaHarris! I cant wait for the rest of the country to get to know @Tim_Walz. Cheers to a ticket thats going to energize people across the nation. IYKYK. pic.twitter.com/1Ap8oEJLst Jacob Frey (@Jacob_Frey) August 6, 2024 But the dispute has also given Republicans a line of attack against Harriss new running mate. Tim Walz refused requests for the National Guard, allowing rioters to burn more than 1,500 Minneapolis businesses & a police station. More than half a *billion* $ in damage, Republican Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas wrote in a message posted to X. Walz could have stopped it, if he wanted to. Tim Walz refused requests for the National Guard, allowing rioters to burn more than 1,500 Minneapolis businesses & a police station. More than half a *billion* $ in damage. Walz could have stopped it, if he wanted to. Picking Walz shows how radical Kamala Harris truly is. pic.twitter.com/A2xGojoyXL Tom Cotton (@TomCottonAR) August 6, 2024 Read more Who is Tim Walz? Kamala Harris names Minnesota governor as VP pick. It reminds me a bit of the first day of school. [Yahoo News] Tim Walz's 2 Kids: All About His Daughter, Hope, and Son, Gus. Walz noted that he and Gwen named their first child Hope to reflect their IVF journey together. [People] How Kamala Harris's VP pick Tim Walz stacks up against JD Vance. On a slew of issues, Walz and Vance are generally aligned with their running mates and distinct from one another. [USA Today] What you should know about Gov. Tim Walz's record in office amid VP speculation. Here's a look at his life and career. [Minneapolis Star Tribune] Reactions to Kamala Harris's pick of Tim Walz for vice president. It's great to have him on the team. Now lets get to work. [Reuters] How Kamala Harris Got to Yes on Tim Walz. If the Upper Midwest is the crossbeam for Democrats Blue Wall, then Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is its new cornerpost. [Time magazine] Republican Mesa Mayor John Giles has been invited to attend the 2024 Democratic National Convention from Aug. 19 to Aug. 22 in Chicago, he told The Arizona Republic. That invitation did not immediately include plans to speak at the keynote event, Giles said, noting, "I can't tell you for sure if I'm going but I did appreciate the invitation." His remarks came in a one-on-one discussion about his growing role with the Republicans for Harris campaign committee after he publicly backed Vice President Kamala Harris for president and denounced former President Donald Trump last week. It started on July 29 when Giles penned a guest column in The Republic and continued to make his case nationally in a series of broadcast interviews. Giles said he is attending Harris' campaign rally on Friday, but it wasn't clear if he would actively participate in the event or attend as a co-chair of the Republicans for Harris committee. He said he will focus his campaigning on in-state voters as he tries to convince Republicans to break with tradition. Giles' endorsement came swiftly after Harris became the presumed Democratic presidential nominee. He said there's a sense of urgency in Harris' campaign after President Joe Biden stepped down. Delaying an endorsement would not have been the right move, Giles said. The people who support Harris need to step up and rally around her, he said. Giles remains a proud Republican, even if his party denounces him and brushes off his support for Democratic candidates. "Honestly that is where my political orientation ... continues to feel like it has a home," he said. Within the more "progressive halls" of the Democratic party, abortion and border issues are two key policies he pointed out that don't align with his views. However, he feels as though Trump and higher-up leadership have "hijacked" his party and that it's Mesa's best interest that he does not return to the White House. More than a dozen former and current lawmakers and elected city officials attended a press briefing Monday in Mesa to formally launch the committee. They continue to plead with Arizona Republican and independent voters to vote against Trump. Giles was joined by co-chair and former GOP state Rep. Robin Shaw, former Scottsdale Mayor Sam Campana, and Mesa Councilmember Julie Spilsbury, among other committee members. They echoed Giles' sentiment over the past week, that it was time for Republicans to speak up and show up for country over party. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: GOP Mesa Mayor John Giles invited to Democratic convention (WGHP) Governor Roy Cooper signed an Executive Order on Monday declaring a State of Emergency ahead of severe weather expected across North Carolina. Tropical Storm Debby has the potential for life-threatening flash flooding, riverine flooding, wind gusts up to 40 mph and catastrophic coastal flooding. Catastrophic flooding predicted along North Carolina coastline when tropical storm rolls through After making landfall, Hurricane Debby has now been downgraded to Tropical Storm Debby but still has the potential to have strong impacts on North Carolina. This weather has the potential to bring intense rain and flooding to North Carolina, and we are preparing for it, Cooper said. As the weather becomes more severe, I urge everyone to take precautions and stay safe. The order activates the State Emergency Operations Plan and allows for the North Carolina Department of Transportation and the North Carolina Department of Public Safety to take action to ensure utility vehicles move quickly to eliminate power outages and vehicles carrying essential supplies such as food, medicine and fuel or transporting livestock, poultry and crops move quickly as well. The governor and NC Emergency Management officials are urging North Carolinians to be safe and cautious during heavy rainfall and winds and to expect flooding and power outages as a strong weather system will impact the state starting Tuesday through the end of the week. Damaging winds and saturated soil might lead to blown-down trees and power lines, causing possible scattered to widespread power outages. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP. Death row inmate Taberon Honie looks on during the Utah Board of Pardons commutation hearing Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at the Utah State Correctional Facility, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, Pool) Utah Gov. Spencer Cox on Tuesday denied a request from death row inmate Taberon Honie to pause the states plans to execute him. Honie is scheduled to be executed by lethal injection early Thursday morning and in a letter to the governor, his attorneys voiced concerns that the states plan was rushed, incomplete and shrouded in secrecy. These arguments were presented in Utahs 3rd District Court last week in a lawsuit filed in July, where Honies attorneys argued, among other things, that the states execution protocol was flawed, increasing the likelihood of a botched execution. That lawsuit was dismissed shortly after, Honies attorneys argued a similar case to Cox in the letter. Although Utah law prevents the governor from granting clemency or commuting sentences, he can issue a temporary reprieve that would be subject to review by the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole. Thats what Honies attorneys requested, hoping the governor would pause the execution so that adequate time and preparation can be taken to ensure a safe process. But Cox, in response, strongly disagreed with how Honies attorneys framed the Utah Department of Corrections plan. The Department has gone above and beyond in planning and preparing for Mr. Honies execution, Cox wrote. It is my understanding that the majority of concerns in your request were previously raised in court. In fact, in reviewing these concerns, the court found the Department has provided Mr. Honie with more than the law requires. Honie had every opportunity to challenge his sentence since it was imposed 25 years ago, Cox wrote, noting that his appeals before Utahs courts have been exhausted and his commutation request was denied by the Board of Pardons and Parole. Honie was sentenced to death in 1999 for the murder and sexual assault of his ex-girlfriends mother, Claudia Benn. Honie broke into Benns house, killed her, and mutilated her body while her three grandchildren were inside the home, according to court documents. He would later admit to molesting one of the children after the murder. Utah News Dispatch has reached out to Honies attorney for comment. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Buca di Beppo has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, but Louisville residents don't need to worry yet. The company has closed stores in recent weeks, but its store at 2051 S. Hurstbourne Parkway in Louisville remains open. Why Buca di Beppo filed for bankruptcy The company blamed its financial woes on things including rising costs and hiring difficulty, according to information from the restaurant and court papers filed Monday in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas. In its 21-page petition obtained by USA TODAY, the Orlando-based casual restaurant chain named 30 creditors it owes close to $50 million. The chain of Italian-American restaurants has been slowly shuttering its doors since COVID hit in 2020 and last month closed nearly 20% of its locations, according to Restaurant Business Magazine. On July 30, the magazine reported Buca's parent company Earl Enterprises said several of its locations "had been unable to recover from the pandemic and other market pressures." In a statement released by the eatery Monday, leaders wrote Buca is restructuring 44 core locations and is in the process of opening one new location. "The company is committed to ensuring that the restaurants operate as usual, and all gift cards, reservations, and promotional services currently remain active and redeemable," the statement reads. "While the restaurant industry has faced significant challenges, this move is the best next step for our brand," said the company's president, Rich Saultz. "By restructuring with the continued support of our lenders, we are paving the way toward a reinvigorated future. Buca di Beppo has been a beloved gathering place for celebrations and memorable meals for many years, and we are enthusiastic about entering this next phase of our brand's story." How did Buca di Beppo begin? Known for family-style serving portions of Italian food, the company most recently shuttered other locations in Arizona, California, Pennsylvania, Utah and Michigan. Founded in a Minneapolis apartment basement in 1993, the company became known for family-style servings of Italian food. Planet Hollywood International purchased the casual chain in 2008. How many Buca di Beppo restaurants remain open? According to the company, 44 locations in 14 states will remain open. "We believe this path will best allow us to continue to serve Buca's patrons and communities for many years to come," William Snyder, Chief Restructuring Officer of Buca C, LLC, released in a statement Monday after signing the bankruptcy petition. Story continues "We are open for business in 44 locations, and we expect day-to-day operations to continue uninterrupted," Snyder said. "We anticipate moving through this process as quickly and efficiently as possible to emerge as a stronger organization built for the future." Contact IndyStar reporter Cheryl V. Jackson at cheryl.jackson@indystar.com or 317-444-6264. Follow her on X.com: @cherylvjackson. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Buca di Beppo bankruptcy: Will it affect Louisville store? ST. CLOUD Democratic presidential candidate Vice President Kamala Harris announced Tuesday morning that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will join her ticket this November. As Walz looks toward a possible future in Washington D.C., Minnesotans are not shy of speaking about their governor. I think it would be great, but I'm kind of selfish. I don't like the idea of sharing him, Emily Gorman, a special education teacher in St. Cloud, said. He's done a lot of good stuff for Minnesota, but I know if he gets in, he'd do a lot of good stuff there too. Gorman believes that Walzs background as a teacher will serve him well in the nations capital, saying his presence will bring a realistic approach to the average American, referencing his laid-back nature, occasionally wearing T-shirts to press conferences and campaign events. This sentiment is echoed by Minnesotans like St. Cloud resident Steven Ludwig, who appreciates Walz for his straightforward nature. He's straightforward, which I suppose grates on some people once in a while, but I really appreciate it and the way he presents himself and his ideas, Ludwig said. He's somebody with legislative experience, administrative experience, and military experience, besides being a teacher. Democratic Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate for the 2024 presidential election. Minnesotans appreciate Walz for his straight-forward nature and laid back, "average American" nature. Walzs leadership approach is what many in Minnesotas Democratic party attribute to his upward political trajectory. They praise Walz for fostering a collaborative atmosphere within the state legislature and emphasizing the importance of civic engagement among Minnesotas youth. Hes been a staunch supporter of everything that I tried to accomplish, and one of those was requiring civics to graduate, said Minnesota Sen. Steve Cwodzinski, DFL-Eden Prairie. We need to make sure our youth become excited about the political process, and I want our young people to be as excited to vote as they are to get their driver's license. Harris' Minnesota campaign: Minnesota Democrats, including Gov. Walz, launch Harris for President campaign in St. Paul However, not every Minnesotan is a fan of Walz. U.S. Rep. Tom Emmer, R-Minn., alleged that bringing Walz onto the Harris ticket would be detrimental, calling him an empty suit. He embodies the same disastrous economic, open-borders and soft-on-crime policies Harris has inflicted on our country the last four years, Emmer wrote on X. Walz is an empty suit who has worked to turn Minnesota into Harris home state of California, and solidifies this tickets full embrace of a radical, America-last agenda. Gov. Tim Walz spoke at the St. Cloud Veterans Center Outstation grand opening on June 13, 2024. The Republican Party of Minnesota cites Walzs response to the 2020 George Floyd protests among their chief complaints. They allege that Walz let Minneapolis burn for three days before calling in the National Guard. Minnesota Republicans also say adding Walz to the Harris ticket brings the Democratic team to further extremes. "The Harris/Walz ticket will be the most extreme and far-left in history. Governor Walz ran on a One Minnesota theme, but governed with a One Extreme Minnesota platform," Sen. Minority Leader Mark Johnson, R-East Grand Forks, wrote in a statement. "The Harris/Walz tandem will make the cost of living even more expensive for Americans, encourage unchecked illegal immigration, and further divide our country - as he did with our state." If Walz wins the vice presidency, it would pave the way for Minnesota to welcome the nations first Native American governor, with Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan taking the reins. Flanagan spoke in support of Harris alongside Walz at the states Harris for President campaign kickoff event on July 27. At the event, Minnesotas Democratic leaders spoke in favor of a Harris ticket, citing better communication with local agencies during her vice presidency compared to the Trump administration. When Harris visited St. Cloud in February 2023, she told meeting attendees that she applauded Walz for his collaborative, supportive efforts, especially in relation to environmental policy, as she was celebrating electric city buses. Corey Schmidt covers local government for the St. Cloud Times. He can be reached at cschmidt@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Minnesota Gov. Walz joins the Harris ticket, here's what Minnesota thinks ST. CLOUD Democratic presidential candidate Vice President Kamala Harris announced Tuesday morning that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will join her ticket this November. As Walz looks toward a possible future in Washington D.C., Minnesotans are not shy of speaking about their governor. I think it would be great, but I'm kind of selfish. I don't like the idea of sharing him, Emily Gorman, a special education teacher in St. Cloud, said. He's done a lot of good stuff for Minnesota, but I know if he gets in, he'd do a lot of good stuff there too. Gorman believes that Walzs background as a teacher will serve him well in the nations capital, saying his presence will bring a realistic approach to the average American, referencing his laid-back nature, occasionally wearing T-shirts to press conferences and campaign events. This sentiment is echoed by Minnesotans like St. Cloud resident Steven Ludwig, who appreciates Walz for his straightforward nature. He's straightforward, which I suppose grates on some people once in a while, but I really appreciate it and the way he presents himself and his ideas, Ludwig said. He's somebody with legislative experience, administrative experience, and military experience, besides being a teacher. Democratic Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate for the 2024 presidential election. Minnesotans appreciate Walz for his straight-forward nature and laid back, u0022average Americanu0022 nature. Walzs leadership approach is what many in Minnesotas Democratic party attribute to his upward political trajectory. They praise Walz for fostering a collaborative atmosphere within the state legislature and emphasizing the importance of civic engagement among Minnesotas youth. Hes been a staunch supporter of everything that I tried to accomplish, and one of those was requiring civics to graduate, said Minnesota Sen. Steve Cwodzinski, DFL-Eden Prairie. We need to make sure our youth become excited about the political process, and I want our young people to be as excited to vote as they are to get their driver's license. Harris' Minnesota campaign: Minnesota Democrats, including Gov. Walz, launch Harris for President campaign in St. Paul However, not every Minnesotan is a fan of Walz. U.S. Rep. Tom Emmer, R-Minn., alleged that bringing Walz onto the Harris ticket would be detrimental, calling him an empty suit. He embodies the same disastrous economic, open-borders and soft-on-crime policies Harris has inflicted on our country the last four years, Emmer wrote on X. Walz is an empty suit who has worked to turn Minnesota into Harris home state of California, and solidifies this tickets full embrace of a radical, America-last agenda. The Republican Party of Minnesota cites Walzs response to the 2020 George Floyd protests among their chief complaints. They allege that Walz let Minneapolis burn for three days before calling in the National Guard. If Walz wins the vice presidency, it would pave the way for Minnesota to welcome the nations first Native American governor, with Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan taking the reins. Flanagan spoke in support of Harris alongside Walz at the states Harris for President campaign kickoff event on July 27. At the event, Minnesotas Democratic leaders spoke in favor of a Harris ticket, citing better communication with local agencies during her vice presidency compared to the Trump administration. When Harris visited St. Cloud in February 2023, she told meeting attendees that she applauded Walz for his collaborative, supportive efforts, especially in relation to environmental policy, as she was celebrating electric city buses. Corey Schmidt covers local government for the St. Cloud Times. He can be reached at cschmidt@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: MinnesotaGov. Walz joins the Harris ticket: what his state thinks RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY) Gov. Glenn Youngkin has declared a state of emergency for the Commonwealth of Virginia ahead of Tropical Storm Debby. The National Weather Service and National Hurricane Center forecast that Debby will deliver heavy rainfall and flooding across the state. As we prepare for Tropical Storm Debby, I urge all Virginians and visitors to stay informed, follow local emergency guidelines, and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their families and communities. There is the potential for strong winds, heavy rains, and possible flooding across regions of the Commonwealth, said Youngkin. A state of emergency allows the Commonwealth to mobilize resources and equipment needed for response and recovery efforts. The Virginia Emergency Operations Center (VEOC) is actively monitoring the severe weather and expects it to arrive Wednesday evening. The Governors Office recommends that Virginians take the following steps in preparation for the storm: Make a plan. Plan in advance a route to a safe place, how you will stay in contact with family and friends, and what you will do in different situations. Additional planning resources are available at vaemergency.gov/prepare/make-a-plan. Prepare an emergency kit. For a list of recommended emergency supplies to sustain your household before, during, and after the storm visit: VAemergency.gov/emergency-kit. Stay informed. Virginians should follow the Virginia Department of Emergency Management on X and Facebook for preparedness updates and their local National Weather Service office for the latest weather forecast, advisories, watches or warnings. Download the FEMA app on your smartphone to receive mobile alerts from the National Weather Service. Power outages are always a concern during weather eventsmake sure you have a battery-operated radio available so you can still receive life-saving alerts. The effects of Debby are far-reaching, and our neighboring states are facing significant challenges. Suzanne and I are praying for the residents of North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, and Georgia as they endure the impacts of this tropical storm, said Youngkin. For more information about preparing your business, your family, and your property against hurricane threats visit: VAemergency.gov/hurricanes and ready.gov/hurricanes. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. Gov. Youngkin orders flags to be lowered in memory of WWII soldier RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY) Gov. Glenn Youngkin has ordered all Virginia and American flags to be lowered to half-staff on Wednesday in memory and respect of a World War II soldier. U.S. Army Sergeant Mayburn L. Hudson was killed in action on Aug. 7, 1944 while serving in Northern France when his unit came under heavy fire, from German forces, near Saint-Malo, in Brittany, France. His remains were accounted for by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency on Dec. 14, 2023 after they were exhumed from U.S. Military Cemetery in St. James, France in June 2019. Hudsons remains will be buried in his hometown of Lynchburg. Flags will remain at half-staff until sunset. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCT) Governor Roy Cooper signed an Executive Order declaring a State of Emergency due to the possibility of severe weather expected across the state this week. Tropical Storm Debby has shown the potential for life-threatening flash flooding, riverine flooding, wind gusts up to 40 miles per hour, coastal impacts and other effects. After making landfall, Hurricane Debby has downgraded to a tropical storm, but still shows potential to have strong impacts on North Carolina. This weather has the potential to bring intense rain and flooding to North Carolina and we are preparing for it, said Governor Cooper. As the weather becomes more severe, I urge everyone to take precautions and stay safe. North Carolina residents are advised to stay aware and keep watch on the forecast. State officials advise these tips to stay prepared: Have multiple ways to receive emergency info, including watches and warnings. Make sure emergency alerts are enabled on your cell phone and download a weather app. Have an emergency plan. Know where you would go if you need to evacuate. Make a plan to stay with family, friends or at a hotel. Public shelters should be a last resort. Gather some emergency supplies or refresh your emergency kit. Visit ReadyNC.gov for info on how to build an emergency kit. Never drive through flooded roadways or around barricades. Make sure you know where to seek shelter if a tornado warning is issued for your area. Ensure that you have multiple ways to receive warnings, especially with the potential for severe storms to be moving through during nighttime hours. Check to see if your community offers emergency alert services for its residents. Avoid unnecessary travel. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. GP who beat himself up to get rid of unwanted patient is suspended Gurkirit Kalkat refused to appear in person before the tribunal that suspended him - Cavendish Press A GP who beat himself up to frame a patient for assault because he wanted him off his surgerys books has been suspended from practice. Dr Gurkirit Kalkat, 58, threw himself against the door before hitting himself in the chest so he could falsely claim to police that he had been attacked by the man, known as Patient A, a tribunal heard. As Patient A looked on, Kalkat shouted: Stop hitting me, ow! This is violence, youre attacking me! before pressing a panic button to call for help. Two police officers were called to the Thames View Medical Centre in Dagenham, Essex and took Patient A home in handcuffs. They later dropped the investigation when Kalkat refused to proceed with a prosecution. Dr Gurkirit Kalkat's practice at the Thames View Medical Centre was due to merge with another, prompting him to want rid of the patient - Cavendish Press Inquiries revealed the GP had wanted Patient A, who had drug issues, off the books at his surgery as it was due to be rebranded under a merger with another doctors practice. The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service heard Kalkat lied to the patient about having terminal blood cancer to encourage him to register with another GP, and even paid out more than 40,000 of his own money to fund rehabilitation treatment. During one consultation, Patient A secretly filmed the GP as he falsely claimed he had six months to live and offered him a further 15,000 to leave the practice. Then, when the patient still failed to find another practice, the doctor set up the appointment at which he staged the attack. Kalkat of Loughton, Essex, was suspended from medical practice for 12 months after he was found guilty of serious professional misconduct. He denied wrongdoing. The hearing in Manchester was told the GP had entered into a written contract with Patient A in which he agreed to fund treatment in a rehab clinic for his drug addiction. In total, six payments were made to Step One Recovery Ltd totalling 44,150. Lies over US cancer treatment During one consultation, the GP falsely told the man he was going to America for immunotherapy for blood cancer and added: If it works, it might give me another five or six months but if it doesnt, then I might not be about in the summer. Man to man. All I want you to do is get yourself set up with a practice. Next week, come and see me. The week after, get yourself registered. That week, in the middle of the week, Ill transfer the 10,000 ... 15,000 to you. The tribunal was told Patient A failed to register with another surgery and on Feb 3, 2020, he was called in for an appointment with Kalkat. Patient A said: I went into his office for my appointment and he gave me four weeks of prescriptions. Then he stood up and walked towards the door, threw himself against the door slightly and put his fist on his chest and said, Stop hitting me. I was still sat in the chair and started to laugh a little bit because I honestly thought he was joking at first. But then he said to his receptionist, You just saw him hit me didnt you? and she replied Yes, I did. He said to me, Now you have used violence you have to leave my surgery. Kalkat insisted that the patient had attacked him after demanding 15,000 from him. He told the tribunal: Police asked whether I wanted to press charges, but ultimately I decided not to as I did not want to see Patient A again and was worried about any repercussions. Prior to the assault, Patient A had threatened to harm me and my family. Doctor said attending hearing was not safe Kalkat declined to attend the hearing, claiming it was not safe to appear in person because of Patient As volatile behaviour, and gave his evidence in written statements. Giving the tribunals ruling, Stephen Killen, the chairman, said: Patient A submitted to giving oral evidence on all events, with the prospect of cross-examination. On the issue of whether he had assaulted Dr Kalkat, Patient A consistently maintained that he had not. The tribunal was provided with confirmation from the Metropolitan Police that Patient A had attempted to make his own statement of complaint in relation to the incident. The tribunal considered it unlikely that Patient A would make a formal complaint of this nature if he knew he had been witnessed assaulting Dr Kalkat. Dr Kalkat had been taking increasingly inappropriate, desperate and dishonest actions with a view to Patient A registering elsewhere. The tribunal considered that the preponderance of the evidence pointed to the likelihood of Dr Kalkat having engineered this incident as part of his attempts to have Patient A removed from his patient list. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A Grandview man accused of sexually abusing two girls while providing childcare for them has been charged, according to documents filed in Jackson County court Friday. Matthew Bales, 35, faces two charges of attempted statutory sodomy and one charge of child molestation, each pertaining to a child under 12, according to court records. Due to their ages, neither child was named in court records. According to court documents, both children told police detectives that while swimming in the river at Blue River Park, Bales forcibly touched their genitals. Bales often stayed home on Thursdays in the summer to watch both girls and take them to local lakes, parks and swimming pools. The assaults took place during at least one of these trips, though not exclusively, according to court documents. One of the victims disclosed the assaults to her mother after the victims spent the day with Bales on Aug. 1, prompting both children to share what had happened, according to court documents. Both victims reported that they had been subject to forcible sexual touching by Bales while swimming in Little Blue River in Jackson County earlier that day. One of the victims reported that she had been assaulted more than once, with instances of molestation starting several years prior, according to court documents. . The victims met with Grandview police detectives and forensic investigators at Childrens Mercy Hospital later that afternoon, and the Grandview Police Department later involved the Kansas City Police Department with their investigation. A warrant for Bales arrest was prepared Aug. 2. Bales was previously incarcerated in Jackson County jail for 30 days after pleading guilty to domestic assault in June. He was also charged with misdemeanor assault and battery in Kansas in 2006, along with illegal possession of a firearm, according to court records. Bales was charged again with assault in Kansas in 2008, followed by a third assault charge and a domestic battery charge, both in Kansas in 2013. A new grant is helping Iowa doulas support Black mothers and their babies. Molina Healthcare of Iowa announced a $10,000 grant to the Iowa Black Doula Collective that will fund doula training to support Black mothers and their babies. The Iowa Black Doula Collective plans to increase the amount of certified lactation consultants in the region. (Molina Healthcare) Only 69% of Black mothers in Iowa breastfeed at the time theyre discharged from a hospital in 2021, compared to 84% of white mothers in Iowa, according to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. The CDC found one in four babies are breastfed during the recommended first six months after birth. Benefits of breastfeeding can include reduced risks of asthma, obesity, Type 1 diabetes, severe lower respiratory disease, ear infections and infant death syndrome. Breastfeeding can also help lower a mothers risk of high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes and ovarian and breast cancer. The new grant will cover 100% of costs for lactation consultant training. Experienced staff from the Iowa Black Doula Collective will provide mentorship. The support from the Collective ensures doulas receive culturally competent instruction to meet the specific needs of mothers of color. A healthy beginning for newborns is an important first step towards a healthy life, and this initiative will give mothers the tools they need to support their childs path to wellness, said Jennifer Vermeer, plan president of Molina Healthcare of Iowa. Molina is proud to support the Iowa Black Doula Collectives efforts to increase equity and outcomes for underserved families. Receiving funding from Molina Healthcare of Iowa to support doulas from the Iowa Black Doula Collective in becoming certified lactation consultants will significantly enhance breastfeeding support within the BIPOC community, addressing disparities in maternal and infant health, said Ebonie Bailey, co-founder and executive director of the Iowa Black Doula Collective. This initiative will empower more BIPOC doulas with specialized skills, leading to better breastfeeding outcomes and increased confidence among new mothers. Additionally, it fosters community trust and culturally competent care, promoting long-term health benefits for both mothers and babies in underserved populations. For more on Molina Healthcare of Iowa, click here. For more on the Iowa Black Doula Collective, click here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. Grassroots efforts to increase voting are gaining momentum in these states, even as other states make voting harder Many people justifiably believe that democracy is under attack in the U.S. and the countrys election system is at risk. But some good news gets lost in the many reports of doom. Many states in recent years have made significant advances toward promoting a more inclusive democracy. Ive worked in the voting rights and political participation field for over two decades. Ive seen all the forces working against fair elections. Yet in my perspective, the past two years have also been groundbreaking in terms of advancing the right to vote. Expanding the vote in Minnesota Take Minnesota, for example. There, in 2023, the state legislature passed, and the governor signed, the Democracy for the People Act. This omnibus bill contained landmark voting rights and election reform advances: It allows 16- and 17-year-olds to preregister to vote and have their registration automatically activated when they turn 18. It establishes automatic voter registration at all motor vehicle agencies and at public assistance agencies that serve primarily low-income people. It permits voters to opt in to a permanent absentee voter list so that they will be sent an absentee ballot every year rather than having to reapply at every election. It mandates that sample ballots and voting instructions be written in multiple languages and requires language translation to be available at the polls in areas where the state has determined a certain percentage of citizens speak a language other than English. It strengthens the penalties for voter intimidation and deception. A different law in 2023, the Minnesota Restore the Vote Act, restored the voting rights of more than 55,000 citizens who had been convicted of a felony. Previously, Minnesotans had to serve out their probation and parole before they were eligible to vote, a process that could last up to several years or even decades for some. Now, they are immediately eligible to vote upon release from incarceration. Increasing voting access in New Mexico In 2023, the New Mexico Voting Rights Act included a range of initiatives that would make it possible for some people to vote whod been denied that right, and make voting much easier for others who faced great obstacles. That legislation contain a range of measures: It restores the voting rights of formerly incarcerated people immediately upon release from prison. It expands voting access on tribal lands by securing early voting, allowing tribes to request ballot drop boxes and designating additional locations for reservation residents without mailing addresses to use as voter registration addresses. It requires every county to have at least two ballot drop boxes, making absentee and mail voting more accessible. It mandates same-day registration at all polling locations during early voting and on Election Day. It creates a permanent absentee voter list so that people do not need to reapply for a mail ballot every election. It mandates Election Day as a school holiday. Coalitions work Michigan and Nevada similarly saw huge victories for voters in the past two years. Changes in Michigan were largely due to the work of a coalition of organizations formed in the state in 2018 called Promote the Vote, which succeeded in passing a voting-related ballot initiative in 2022 and, in 2023, getting a number of voting rights bills through the Legislature. Prop 2, which passed with 60% of the vote, included nine days of early in-person voting; a repeal of the ban on transportation to the polls; the option of permanent mail ballot status; and a requirement that drop boxes for mail ballots be provided by town election officials. The legislation also expanded the IDs that could be used for voting and provided prepaid postage for mail ballots. In Nevada, organizers worked with the state Legislature to pass a number of different measures that together over the past few years have included vote centers that must be located on tribal land unless the tribe formally objects; all voting to be conducted by mail, with every active registered voter being mailed a ballot; and same-day registration so that voters can register and vote during early voting and on Election Day. Key to successes leadership from the grassroots A common thread flowing through all four states was the key role statewide grassroots groups played in getting the laws passed. Organizers from the most affected communities became the leaders of these campaigns. Great policy ideas that come from policy-oriented organizations are obviously necessary for progress in this realm, but bringing people who create a demand is necessary for wins. For example, in Minnesota, the Restore the Vote Coalition was led by people who had been incarcerated themselves. Their advocacy brought home to lawmakers the real stories and the real faces of felon disenfranchisement. The We Choose Us Coalition was a multiracial, multi-issue group that mobilized a broad set of constituencies to persistently demand changes to make elections more inclusive. In New Mexico, NAEVA, which advocates for Indigenous communities across the state, brought the Indigenous community to the Legislature so they could hear from them directly, not through lobbyists. A grassroots coalition led by Organizers in the Land of Enchantment organized communities across the state to work together for these voting measures under an umbrella of the shared values of empowering their communities and improving the lives of working people rather than individual interests. Aiming for impact After these hard-won victories comes another challenge: implementing these laws so that new registration and voting opportunities are taken. Secretaries of state and local election officials in these states and across the country are working with organizers to ensure the mechanics involved in administering these laws are in place so that these new voting and registration opportunities are working effectively for voters. Organizers are also working creatively to ensure voters know that registering to vote and casting a ballot have both gotten easier. In Las Vegas, they had a mariachi band lead the way to an early voting site and held K-pop concerts promoting same-day registration. Organizers in Michigan have hosted music festivals to educate young people about early voting and developed exhibits at museum-based polling places curated specifically to attract young voters. Scholars have demonstrated for years the potential impact of election reform laws, but the effects could be much more far-reaching with efforts such as these. In these states, organizers were key to passage of new laws to expand the vote that can make elections more inclusive. Organizers are now central to making the potential of those reforms live up to their promise. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Tova Wang, Harvard Kennedy School Read more: Tova Wang does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz won the nod to become Vice President Kamala Harris running mate over Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and several others. But Beshear said Tuesday it was an honor to be considered for the VP slot. The 46-year-old governor posted to X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter, that he was great friends with Walz and would support the Harris-Walz ticket moving forward. It was an honor to be considered in this process, but (Walz) is a great friend and a great choice. I fully support this new ticket and will work to elect (Harris) as our next President of the United States, Beshear wrote. Harris called Beshear Tuesday morning and the two spoke over the phone, according to a source familiar with the process. Beshear and Walz have a history. The 60-year-old Minnesota governor is chair of the Democratic Governors Association, a powerhouse fundraiser and spender during gubernatorial campaigns. He was a Beshear ally in 2023 when Beshear won his second term over GOP state Attorney General Daniel Cameron. It was an honor to be considered in this process, but @Tim_Walz is a great friend and a great choice. I fully support this new ticket and will work to elect @KamalaHarris as our next President of the United States. Andy Beshear (@AndyBeshearKY) August 6, 2024 Walz was present for Beshears second inauguration in late 2023. Beshear, Walz and several others, including Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, competed in front of television cameras and behind closed doors for the selection often appearing for cable television interviews related to the so-called veepstakes and hosting or holding fundraisers for the Harris campaign. While Beshear was eyed as a genial, polished political talent by Harris team and easily fit the moderate white-guy profile it was looking for, he could not change his roots. He was always going to come from Kentucky, which hasnt voted for a Democratic presidential ticket in 28 years. Minnesota, on the other hand, is a Democratic-leaning state. Its also more populous, got a bigger donor base and is close both in geography and culture to the key battleground states of Michigan and Wisconsin. Later Tuesday morning, Beshear reiterated his commitment to Kentucky in another post to X. Kentucky is in my DNA; I love my job and my family and we are right where were supposed to be. Over the past several weeks weve seen Kentucky get such positive national attention for what weve accomplished by working together, he wrote. Im in this office this morning working hard to ensure we continue this incredible momentum as we build a better future for every single Kentuckian. The Republican Party of Kentucky responded to the news claiming that Beshear would have been a liability to Harris given his record as governor. Republicans control four-fifths of the state legislative seats, making it difficult for many the Democratic governors priorities to pass. With the Kentucky Democrats echo chamber in the local press and social media coming to an end, its no surprise Kamala Harris took a pass on Andy. His years of controversy and lack of policy wins made choosing him a liability, state GOP spokesperson Andy Westberry wrote. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear waves to people during the Inaugural Parade along Capital Avenue in Frankfort, Ky., on Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2023. Key Insights Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, Auckland International Airport fair value estimate is NZ$6.99 With NZ$7.42 share price, Auckland International Airport appears to be trading close to its estimated fair value The NZ$8.20 analyst price target for AIA is 17% more than our estimate of fair value How far off is Auckland International Airport Limited (NZSE:AIA) from its intrinsic value? Using the most recent financial data, we'll take a look at whether the stock is fairly priced by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. We will take advantage of the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model for this purpose. It may sound complicated, but actually it is quite simple! Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model. See our latest analysis for Auckland International Airport The Calculation We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 Levered FCF (NZ$, Millions) -NZ$1.02b -NZ$849.0m -NZ$759.7m -NZ$254.8m NZ$327.7m NZ$499.3m NZ$686.6m NZ$872.7m NZ$1.05b NZ$1.20b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x3 Analyst x3 Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Est @ 52.38% Est @ 37.51% Est @ 27.11% Est @ 19.82% Est @ 14.72% Present Value (NZ$, Millions) Discounted @ 8.2% -NZ$939 -NZ$725 -NZ$599 -NZ$186 NZ$221 NZ$311 NZ$395 NZ$464 NZ$513 NZ$544 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = -NZ$1.8m We now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (2.8%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 8.2%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2034 (1 + g) (r g) = NZ$1.2b (1 + 2.8%) (8.2% 2.8%) = NZ$23b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= NZ$23b ( 1 + 8.2%)10= NZ$10b The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is NZ$10b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of NZ$7.4, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind. dcf Important Assumptions The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Auckland International Airport as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 8.2%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.312. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business. SWOT Analysis for Auckland International Airport Strength Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry. Debt is well covered by earnings. Weakness Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Infrastructure market. Expensive based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Opportunity Annual revenue is forecast to grow faster than the New Zealander market. Threat Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow. Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the New Zealander market. Looking Ahead: Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. For Auckland International Airport, there are three important factors you should consider: Risks: To that end, you should be aware of the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Auckland International Airport . Future Earnings: How does AIA's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every New Zealander stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com Great Parks says it's addressing dust issue caused by the draining of Sharon Lake A two-year project to drain, dredge and do other improvements to Sharon Lake in Sharonville, part of Great Parks of Hamilton County, began April 3. The draining of Sharon Lake has kicked up a dust storm. Specifically, an ingredient in concrete known as lime has floated over the lake area and coated some houses and cars nearby, according to officials from Great Parks of Hamilton County. The construction crews who drained Sharon Lake used lime to stabilize the marshy lakebed. It's part of an $11.4 million restoration effort to dredge and ultimately preserve the popular fishing and boating destination in the heart of Sharon Woods park north of Cincinnati in Sharonville. Great Parks of Hamilton County, in a press release Tuesday, assured neighboring properties the lime is nontoxic and said they have halted any use of lime until project managers figure out a way to control dust or find an alternative to lime. The park district received multiple calls on Aug. 1 from residents who live just north of the lake saying that the lime dust coated their homes, cars and trees, said Todd Palmeter, chief executive officers of Great Parks of Hamilton County. The lime being used on the lakebed is naturally occurring and designed to mix with the soil, Palmeter said. Todd Palmeter, the chief executive officer of Great Parks of Hamilton County, talks in April about the draining and dredging of Sharon Lake. "Some residents talked about it being on properties," Palmeter said about the residents who called the park district. "Some talked about concerns of health or with breathing. Obviously, the safety and wellness of the neighbors, park staff, volunteers, people in the parks, is all very important to us, which is why as soon as we were notified, we stopped." The Southwest Ohio Air Quality Agency has contacted the residents and worked with them on any concerns they may have, Palmeter said. The agency, which monitors and regulates air quality in Butler, Clermont, Clinton, Hamilton, and Warren counties, received two complaints from residents regarding the dust from the Sharon Lake project, said Bridget Doherty, a spokesperson for Hamilton County, which is a member of the agency. The air quality agency requested the construction company submit a plan on how to contain the stray dust, Doherty said in an email to The Enquirer. The agency also contacted Hamilton County Health Commissioner Greg Kesterman, who told the county he wasn't aware of any "immediate health concerns" the dust might cause, Doherty said in the email. "If a citizen has specific health concerns, they should contact their physician," Doherty said. Work that doesn't require lime will continue on the 35-acre lake. Palmeter said the project is still on track for a fall 2025 completion. Park officials will build a boardwalk, remove the excess sediment and use it to build wetlands, and put in a drainage system that will make future dredging unnecessary. A two-year project to drain and dredge Sharon Lake in Sharonville, part of the Hamilton County Great Parks, is well underway. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Is the dust a concern around Sharon Lake? Here's Great Parks' response GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) On Tuesday, the City of Green Bay conducted its public test of voting equipment ahead of the August 13 election. Every voting jurisdiction is required to conduct a public test of its voting equipment within ten days of each election to ensure it is fully ready in advance. Wisconsin politicians give their thoughts on Vice President Kamala Harris running mate In the state of Wisconsin we always do tests of our machines, logic and accuracy tests to make sure that all of our tabulators are seeing all of the ovals that they would see marked and filled in on election day. Nineteen sample ballots went through the machines during the test, and City of Green Bay Clerk Celestine Jeffreys said the tests ensure voters trust. In turn, voters must watch out for errors. Mistakes, meaning that youve crossed over or overvoted, she explained. Youll have a chance to review those errors, and then you can cast a ballot, which means that those votes may not count. You can return to vote, spoil the ballot by putting a tear in it, and then the poll workers can give you another ballot. Throughout the process, a poll worker will be at the tabulator to inform you of mistakes they notice or to assist you with any questions you have. Steve Lardinois is a Voting Technician for the City of Green Bay and was at the public test to keep everything in working order. We take pride in making sure that machines are set up and run the whole election, he stated. If a machine does fault out, there are five of us for the city who go to each polling place to fix it as soon as possible. Election workers like Lardinois play a vital role in making sure the process runs smoothly, and he told Local 5s Samantha Petters that its rewarding to work part-time as a voting technician and give his time to something as important as this. You like being a part of the election. You like knowing that the election has integrity and that everythings going to be done right, stated Lardinois. When you go to cast your ballots, if you are a registered voter, the entire process can take roughly 5 minutes. If you are not yet registered, the process could take an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Other important things to note about the DS200 machines: The DS200 takes a USB stick The USB stick records the results On election night, poll workers print a thermal tape from the USB stick, sign the tape, and read the results out loud. The DS200 reads ballots upside down, right side up, top-down, and bottom-up. The August Primary ballot is double-sided, so the machine will read both sides. Once an election code is entered, youll also see the election type and a verification that the machine is up and running. De Pere school welcomes four-legged furry friend to boost students mental health In October, the city will conduct another voting system check ahead of the November election, and the DS450s, the high-speed scanner and tabulator, will be tested publicly. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) A new person has been picked to finish out the term for an outgoing North Carolina state representative for the Greensboro area. In July, state House Representative Ashton Clemmons (D-District 57), who was running for re-election, announced that she would be resigning next month to take a position within the University of North Carolina System. As currently drawn, District 57 lies within Guilford County and includes northern Greensboro and Summerfield. Tracy Boyer Clark (D-District 57) It was then up to the Guilford County Democratic Party to fill the vacancies both in the current North Carolina House of Representatives and on the ballot for the ongoing race to represent the newly redrawn District 57. District 57 was redrawn during Clemmonss term. Some precincts that were in District 57 in the 2022 election will no longer be within the district for the 2024 election, and a few precincts were added. For one candidate to fill both the vacancy in the House and on the ballot, the candidate would need to live within the narrow area of overlap between the old District 57 and the new. Tracy Boyer Clark, a Greensboro businesswoman, was selected to take over Clemmonss term and to run against Republican Janice Davis in November, the GCDP announced on Facebook. I am honored to have been chosen to represent my district in Raleigh, she said in a statement. As a businesswoman, I know how to effectively lead and manage. As president of Women 2 Women (a member-run endowment at CFGG), I know how to successfully fundraise and give back to our community. And as a mother of two girls, I know what is needed legislation-wise to ensure our children have the opportunity to thrive, namely well-funded public schools and the freedom and rights that women once had to make decisions about their own bodies and future. I look forward to doing the challenging yet fulfilling work ahead to represent all of my constituents! Clark says that Gov. Roy Cooper should be certifying the vote today, making her appointment official. I am so encouraged by and grateful to the talented slate of candidates who ran to represent NC HD 57! Clemmons said in a post on X on Saturday. Congratulations to Representative-Elect Tracy Clark! I look forward to supporting her as she begins the important work of representing us. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP. GENESEE COUNTY, N.Y. (WROC) A prominent facility promising to bring 600 jobs to western New York has officially broken ground today: Edwards Vacuum in Genesee County. The facility will make dry pumps for semiconductor fabrication when it opens for production in 2025. Federal leaders say Edwards will create 600 jobs, and the facility represents a $300 million investment into New York. Senator Chuck Schumer, who attended the groundbreaking, said this is all part of making New York a top chip creation location after his CHIPS and Science Act passed years ago. We dont want all this great technology and great jobs to just go to New York City, San Francisco, and Boston, said Schumer. We wanted it to come to more rural areas, to middle-sized cities, small areas, rural areas According to their site, Edwards is part of the Swedish company Atlas Copco Group, and it decided to build in Genesee County two years ago. Leadership for Edwards said on-site Tuesday the facility will use mostly hydropower, and be emission-free. Schumer said Genesee Valley could compete with Silicon Valley, citing the access to good workers, cooperative local government, and access to cheap and clean water. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. Jayapura, Indonesia Gunmen stormed a helicopter and killed its New Zealand pilot shortly after it landed in Indonesias restive Papua region on Monday, and they released two health workers and two children it was carrying, police said. Glen Malcolm Conning, a pilot for Indonesian aviation company PT Intan Angkasa Air Service, was shot to death by gunmen allegedly with the West Papua Liberation Army, the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement, after landing in Alama, a remote village in Mimika district of Central Papua province, said Faizal Ramadhani, a National Police member who heads the joint security peace force in Papua. He said the gunmen released the Indigenous Papuan passengers and set fire to the plane. All passengers were safe because they were local residents of Alama village, said Ramadhani, adding that the village is in a mountainous district which can be reached only by helicopter. A joint security force was deployed to search for the attackers, who ran into the dense jungle. West Papua Liberation Army spokesperson Sebby Sambom told The Associated Press that he had not received any reports from fighters on the ground about the killing. But, if that happens, it was his own fault for entering our forbidden territory, Sambom said. We have released warnings several times that the area is under our restricted zone, an armed conflict area that is prohibited for any civilian aircraft to land. Sambom called on Indonesian authorities to stop all development in Papua until the government is willing to negotiate with the rebels, and if anyone disobeys, they must bear the risk themselves. New Zealands foreign ministry said in a statement that it was aware of reports of the death and the countrys embassy in Jakarta was seeking information from authorities. A spokesperson could not confirm any details. Conflicts between Indigenous Papuans and Indonesian security forces are common in the impoverished Papua region, a former Dutch colony in the western part of New Guinea that is ethnically and culturally distinct from much of Indonesia. Conflict has spiked in the past year, with dozens of rebels, security forces and civilians killed. Mondays killing was the latest violence against New Zealand nationals in the Papua region. NZ Pilot Philip Mehrtens flanked by members of the West Papua National Liberation Army. - West Papua National Liberation Army In February 2023, Egianus Kogoya, a regional commander in the Free Papua Movement, abducted Philip Mark Mehrtens, a pilot from Christchurch who was working for Indonesian aviation company Susi Air. Kogoya and his troops stormed a single-engine plane shortly after it landed on a small runway in a mountainous village. Planning to use the pilot to negotiate, Kogoya has said they wont release Mehrtens unless Indonesia frees Papua as a sovereign country. In 2020, seven employees of PT Freeport Indonesia, including a New Zealand miner, Graeme Thomas Wall from Ngaruawahia, were attcked by gunmen in a parking area in Tembagapura mining town. Wall was shot in his chest and died. Papua was incorporated into Indonesia in 1969 after a U.N.-sponsored ballot that was widely seen as a sham. Since then, a low-level insurgency has simmered in the mineral-rich region, which is divided into six provinces. Flying is the only practical way of accessing many areas in the mountainous easternmost provinces of Papua and West Papua. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Hamas appoints Yahya Sinwar as new head after death of top leader Hamas has appointed Yahya Sinwar, the militant groups Gaza chief, as its new head after the assassination of top leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week. Hamas said in a statement shared by pro-Iranian media channels that Sinwar would succeed Haniyeh as the head of the militant groups political bureau, but did not offer any other details. Sinwar is believed to be hiding in the vast tunnel network underneath Gaza, removed from the intense fighting between Israel and Hamas waged above ground for the past 10 months. Although Israel is aggressively searching for him, Sinwar remains an influential member of Hamas, including as the key decisionmaker in a hostage release and cease-fire deal under negotiation. Its unclear how Hamass governing capabilities will be impacted by shifting all of the groups political decisions to a leader in hiding. Haniyeh was killed in a bombing at a residence in Tehran last Wednesday. Iran has blamed his death on Israel, which has neither confirmed nor denied the assassination, and vowed to respond. Israel has taken out a number of key leaders of Hamas, including top military commander Mohammed Deif, who Israeli forces acknowledged last week was killed in a July strike. Another Hamas political leader, Saleh al-Arouri, was killed in January, and a top commander in March. Hamas has been severely degraded in the war but continues to mount resistance against Israeli forces, even in areas previously cleared out. Israel has vowed to completely destroy Hamas in retaliation for an Oct. 7 attack in which they killed some 1,200 people. Hamas also took roughly 250 people captive, around 115 of whom are expected to still be held in Gaza. More than 39,000 people have died in Gaza since the war began. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Samia Nakhoul DUBAI (Reuters) - Yahya Sinwar, named leader of Hamas on Tuesday, masterminded the bloodiest attack on Jews in a single day since the Holocaust, having made no secret of his desire to strike hard at Israel, the country that imprisoned him for almost half his adult life. In December 2022, the militant leader told a rally in Gaza that the Palestinian group Hamas would deploy a "flood" of fighters and rockets against Israel, in a speech to supporters that bore the hallmarks of crowd-pleasing hyperbole. "We will come to you, God willing, in a roaring flood. We will come to you with endless rockets, we will come to you in a limitless flood of soldiers, we will come to you with millions of our people, like the repeating tide," he said in his address. Less than a year later, Israel discovered it was no idle threat, when Hamas fighters broke through Gaza's fence on Oct. 7, 2023, staging an assault that killed 1,200 people, took 152 hostage and broke Israel's reputation as an invincible enemy. Sinwar, 61, who before Tuesday's announcement was the Hamas chief in Gaza, began his career as a ruthless enforcer who punished and killed collaborators with Israel, before rising to a leadership role after his release from prison in 2011 and his return to Gaza. The war set off by the Oct. 7 attack laid waste to Gaza, as Israel sought to eliminate Hamas. Sinwar has been at the top of Israel's assassination list during the conflict. By the time of the speech, Sinwar and the militant Islamists' military leader Mohammed Deif had already hatched secret plans for the Oct. 7 assault, the deadliest day in Israel's 75-year history. Hamas regarded the attack as a major victory against Israeli occupation, but it drew condemnation from the International Criminal Court. Its prosecutor said he had requested arrest warrants for Sinwar, Deif and another Hamas figure over the attack, and for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Nentanyahu and his defence chief over Israel's response which reduced much of Gaza to rubble. Both Israel and Hamas dismissed the accusations and said they objected to the way the announcement of the request on the same day appeared to equate them with each other - though they faced different charges. Heard in hindsight, Sinwar's words foreshadowed what was to come, an attack Hamas dubbed the "flood of Al-Aqsa," a reference to the mosque in Jerusalem that is one of Islam's holiest shrines and stands on a place revered by Jews as Temple Mount. Al-Aqsa has been subject to repeated Israeli raids. Sinwar never made a public appearance after the Oct. 7 attacks, but directed military operations along with Deif and another commander. He also led negotiations for prisoner-hostage swaps, possibly from bunkers beneath Gaza. In the days after the Oct. 7 attacks, Sinwar was seen by some of the captured Israelis in the tunnels, freed hostages have said. Hamas and Israeli officials did not publicly comment on the reported sighting. The question of hostages and prisoner swaps is deeply personal for Sinwar, who spent 23 years behind bars, and has vowed to free all Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. He was one of 1,027 Palestinians released from Israeli prisons in a swap for a single Israeli soldier held in Gaza in 2011. 'DEAD MAN WALKING' Born in the Khan Younis refugee camp, Sinwar was elected as Hamas' leader in Gaza in 2017. After Oct. 7, Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said he and other leaders were "living on borrowed time." Before he was jailed, Sinwar rose to prominence as the head of the Al-Majd security apparatus which tracked and killed Palestinians accused of providing information on Hamas to Israels secret service. Both Hamas leaders and Israeli officials who know Sinwar agree he is devoted to the movement to an extraordinary level. One Hamas figure based in Lebanon described him as "puritanical ... with an amazing ability of endurance." Michael Koubi, a former Shin Bet official who interrogated Sinwar for 180 hours in prison, said he clearly stood out for his ability to intimidate and command. Koubi once asked the militant, then aged 28 or 29, why he was not already married. "He told me Hamas is my wife, Hamas is my child. Hamas for me is everything." Sinwar was arrested in 1988 and sentenced to consecutive life terms accused of planning the abduction and murder of two Israeli soldiers and the murder of four Palestinians. In jail, his hard line against collaborators continued, Israelis who dealt with him have said. At times, "he did not have Jewish blood on his hands, he had Palestinian blood on his hands," Yuval Bitton, previously head of the Israel Prison Service's intelligence division, told Channel 12 TV in October. Bitton, a dentist who treated Sinwar, said Israeli medics removed a tumour in Sinwar's brain in 2004. "We saved his life and this is his thanks," said Bitton, referring to Oct. 7. Bitton's nephew was killed during the attack and his body taken to Gaza by the militants. Koubi described Sinwar as being devoted to the destruction of Israel and to killing Jews. The senior Israeli official described him as a "psychopath", adding that "I don't think the way he grasps reality is similar to more rational and pragmatic terrorists". Bitton added that the Hamas leader was willing to allow huge suffering for a cause and had once in prison led 1,600 prisoners to the brink of a mass hunger strike until death if needed in protest at the treatment of two men in isolation. "He was ready to pay any price for the principle," he said. (Editing by Michael Georgy and Frank Jack Daniel) (Bloomberg) -- Hamas named Yahya Sinwar, a key mastermind of the groups Oct. 7 assault, as its new political leader, the latest blow to multilateral efforts to reach a cease-fire agreement in Gaza. Most Read from Bloomberg Sinwar succeeds Ismail Haniyeh, one of the groups main mediators, whose assassination in Iran last week had already put strain on talks which have dragged for months aimed at bringing the 10-month old war to an end. Irans said it is preparing to attack Israel as punishment for Haniyehs killing, which Israeli officials havent confirmed or denied having a role in. Choosing Sinwar, who lives in hiding in Gaza and is the top target for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government, sends a message of defiance to Israel, the US and countries in the region seeking to broker a truce. Haniyeh was central to negotiations mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the US. Asked about Sinwars new role, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters it only emphasizes the fact that as has been the case for some time it really is on him. Sinwar is the primary decider on a cease-fire, Blinken said. This is the decisive moment. The negotiations have reached their final stage and we believe strongly that they should come across the finish line very, very soon. Israel responded sharply to Sinwars added title. There is only one reserved place for Yahya Sinwar, which is next to Mohammed Deif and Marwan Issa, Avichay Adraee, the Arab-language spokesman for Israels army, said on X. They have both been killed for their involvement in the Oct. 7 attacks that ignited the war in the Gaza Strip. Sinwar previously led Iran-backed Hamas political bureau in 2017, six years after he was released from an Israeli jail during a prisoner exchange deal. He later focused on reinforcing the groups military capabilities in preparation for wider conflict with the Jewish state. Hamas is designated a terrorist organization by the US. The surprising selection of Sinwar was a message to Israel, said Mkhaimar Abusada, a political science professor at Gazas Al-Azhar University. Its meant to challenge Israel, Abusada said. Hamas is saying: If you killed the somewhat moderate Haniyeh, here is more of a hardliner and extremist on top of the group. Many analysts presumed Hamas would choose a figure who, like Haniyeh, was based in Qatar or somewhere else outside Gaza. Khaled Mashaal, a former Hamas chief, was one such person who was widely tipped. The selection reaffirms what weve known for months now - Sinwar controls Hamas, said Aaron David Miller, senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and a former US government negotiator for the Middle East. It also lays to rest any illusions anyone might have had about its moderate or radical wings. Elevation is an endorsement of his policies. --With assistance from Peter Martin, Iain Marlow and Ethan Bronner. (Updates with details on Iran vowing to attack Israel.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Leader of the Palestinian Islamic Movement Hamas in the Gaza Strip Yehya al-Sinwar attends a rally marking the 46th anniversary of the Land Day. Mohammed Talatene/dpa Yehya al-Sinwar, the head of Hamas in the Gaza Strip, has been chosen to replace the late Ismail Haniyeh as leader of the Palestinian militant group. Al-Sinwar's promotion within Iran-backed Hamas was announced on Telegram on Tuesday. He is accused of being a mastermind of the October 7 attacks into southern Israel that killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took around 250 people hostage. But despite Israel's nearly 10-month air and ground offensive in Gaza, al-Sinwar has seemingly eluded the Israeli forces trying to hunt him down. Qatar-based Haniyeh was killed nearly a week ago in a targeted attack as he visited Tehran for the inauguration of Iran's new president. Iran and its allies have promised harsh retaliation against Israel in response, sparking fears of a wider regional war. Key Insights The projected fair value for Eversendai Corporation Berhad is RM0.43 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Eversendai Corporation Berhad's RM0.50 share price indicates it is trading at similar levels as its fair value estimate When compared to theindustry average discount of -19,230%, Eversendai Corporation Berhad's competitors seem to be trading at a greater premium to fair value Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of Eversendai Corporation Berhad (KLSE:SENDAI) as an investment opportunity by projecting its future cash flows and then discounting them to today's value. This will be done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example! We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. If you want to learn more about discounted cash flow, the rationale behind this calculation can be read in detail in the Simply Wall St analysis model. Check out our latest analysis for Eversendai Corporation Berhad Crunching The Numbers We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Seeing as no analyst estimates of free cash flow are available to us, we have extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the company's last reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we need to discount the sum of these future cash flows to arrive at a present value estimate: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM70.6m RM54.3m RM46.2m RM41.8m RM39.5m RM38.3m RM38.0m RM38.1m RM38.7m RM39.4m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ -34.44% Est @ -23.05% Est @ -15.07% Est @ -9.48% Est @ -5.57% Est @ -2.84% Est @ -0.92% Est @ 0.42% Est @ 1.36% Est @ 2.02% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 15% RM61.6 RM41.3 RM30.6 RM24.1 RM19.9 RM16.8 RM14.5 RM12.7 RM11.2 RM10.0 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM243m Story continues The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 3.6%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 15%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2034 (1 + g) (r g) = RM39m (1 + 3.6%) (15% 3.6%) = RM366m Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM366m ( 1 + 15%)10= RM93m The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is RM336m. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of RM0.5, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind. dcf The Assumptions We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Eversendai Corporation Berhad as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 15%, which is based on a levered beta of 2.000. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business. Looking Ahead: Although the valuation of a company is important, it shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. For Eversendai Corporation Berhad, we've compiled three further factors you should further examine: Risks: For example, we've discovered 3 warning signs for Eversendai Corporation Berhad (2 don't sit too well with us!) that you should be aware of before investing here. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! Other Top Analyst Picks: Interested to see what the analysts are thinking? Take a look at our interactive list of analysts' top stock picks to find out what they feel might have an attractive future outlook! PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Malaysian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com By Yomna Ehab and Jaidaa Taha CAIRO (Reuters) -Hamas named its Gaza leader Yahya Sinwar as successor to former political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Tehran last week, the group said on Tuesday, in a move that reinforces the radical path pursued since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel. Sinwar, the architect of the most devastating attack on Israel in decades, has been in hiding in Gaza, defying Israeli attempts to kill him since the start of the war. "The Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas announces the selection of Commander Yahya Sinwar as the head of the political bureau of the movement, succeeding the martyr Commander Ismail Haniyeh, may Allah have mercy on him," the movement said in a brief statement. News of the appointment, which came as Israel braces for a likely attack from Iran following the killing of Haniyeh in Tehran, was greeted with a salvo of rockets from Gaza from the bands of militants still fighting Israeli troops in the besieged enclave. "The appointment means that Israel needs to face Sinwar over a solution to Gaza war," said a regional diplomat familiar with the talks brokered by Egypt and Qatar, which are aimed at bringing a halt to the fighting in Gaza and a return of 115 Israeli and foreign hostages still held in the enclave. "It is a message of toughness and it is uncompromising." Sinwar, who spent half his adult life in Israeli prisons, was the most powerful Hamas leader left alive following the assassination of Haniyeh, which has left the region on the brink of a wider regional conflict after Iran vowed harsh retaliation. Israel has not claimed responsibility for the assassination but it has said it killed other senior leaders, including Hamas deputy leader Saleh al-Arouri, who was killed in Beirut, and Mohammed Deif, the movement's military commander. Born in a refugee camp in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis, Sinwar, 61, was elected as Hamas' leader in Gaza in 2017 after gaining a reputation as a ruthless enforcer among Palestinians and an implacable enemy of Israel. Israel's chief military spokesman, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, blamed Sinwar for the Oct 7 attack and said Israel would continue to pursue him. "There is only one place for Yahya Sinwar, and it is beside Mohammed Deif and the rest of the Oct 7th terrorists," he told Al-Arabiya television, according to a statement released by the military. "That is the only place we're preparing and intending for him." CEASEFIRE TALKS In a sign that the movement had united around the choice of Sinwar, Khaled Meshaal, a former leader who had been seen as a potential successor to Haniyeh, was said by senior sources in the movement to have backed Sinwar "in loyalty to Gaza and its people, who are waging the battle of the Flood of Al-Aqsa". For Israel, the appointment confirms Hamas as a foe dedicated to its destruction and is likely to reinforce Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's insistence that Israel must pursue its campaign in Gaza to the end. The White House declined to comment on Sinwar's appointment. But a person familiar with Washington's thinking said the selection suggested that Hamas could toughen its position in ceasefire negotiations and make it harder to reach a deal. They added, however, that Israel was already aware that even before his formal appointment Sinwar would have the final word on any agreement to halt the fighting, and the announcement merely set the seal on that. Ten months since the surprise attack by thousands of Hamas-led fighters who swarmed into Israeli communities around the Gaza Strip in the early hours of the morning of Oct. 7, the war has turned the Middle East on its head and threatened to spiral into a wider regional conflict. Some 1,200 Israelis and foreigners were killed and more than 250 taken hostage into Gaza. In response, Israel launched a relentless campaign that has so far killed almost 40,000 Palestinians and left the densely populated enclave in ruins. Attempts at reaching a ceasefire that would give the exhausted population a respite and enable the hostages remaining in captivity to be brought home have foundered amid mutual recriminations from Hamas and Israel. Hamas official Osama Hamdan told Al Jazeera that the movement remained committed to reaching a deal and the team that handled the negotiations under Haniyeh would continue under Sinwar, who he said was following the talks closely. But Hani Al-Masri, a political analyst in Ramallah, said Sinwar's appointment to lead the movement overall was a direct challenge to Israel, and sent a message about Hamas' adherence to his "extremist and resistant approach". "As Sinwar manages the negotiations, he will manage the movement," he said. (Additional reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi in Cairo, Ali Sawafta in Ramallah, James Mackenzie in Jerusalem, Matt Spetalnick in Washington; writing by James Mackenzie; Editing by William Maclean and Jonathan Oatis) Leader of the Palestinian Islamic Movement Hamas in the Gaza Strip Yehya al-Sinwar attends a rally marking the 46th anniversary of the Land Day. Mohammed Talatene/dpa Yehya al-Sinwar, the head of Hamas in the Gaza Strip, has been chosen to replace the late Ismail Haniyeh as the top leader of the Palestinian militant group. His promotion within Iran-backed Hamas was announced on Tuesday on Telegram, and comes as the Middle East braces for a possible new wave of attacks by Tehran and its allies against Israel. Al-Sinwar is accused of being a mastermind of the October 7 massacres in southern Israel that killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took around 250 people hostage. But despite Israel's nearly 10-month air and ground offensive in Gaza, al-Sinwar has seemingly eluded the Israeli forces hunting him down. Israel believes he is cornered in the tunnels running below the Palestinian territory. Qatar-based Haniyeh was killed nearly a week ago in a targeted attack blamed on Israel as he visited Tehran for the inauguration of Iran's new president. That came on the heels of Israel killing Fuad Shukr, a top military commander with Iran-allied Hezbollah was killed in Beirut. Fears of a broader regional war have been mounting as Iran and its proxy forces in the Middle East - which include Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen - vow revenge for the killings. From "Butcher of Khan Younis" to leader Al-Sinwar was born in 1962 in the Khan Younis refugee camp in the south of the Gaza Strip. His family came from the area around the coastal town of Ashkelon, now part of Israel. When Hamas was formed during the first Palestinian uprising, or Intifada, against the Israeli occupation at the end of the 1980s, al-Sinwar played a hand in setting up the military arm of Hamas, the Qassam Brigades. In the early years of the Islamist movement, al-Sinwar was responsible for the fight against suspected collaborators with Israel within its own ranks. He was so brutal in his actions that he became known as the "Butcher of Khan Younis." Al-Sinwar spent more than two decades in Israeli custody, during which time he learnt Hebrew fluently. He was released from an Israeli prison in 2011 as part of a swap for Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, who had been held hostage by militants for five years. Al-Sinwar returned to Gaza and became Hamas' leader there in 2017. One of Israel's central aims since October 7 has been to capture or kill al-Sinwar. His deputy, Mohammed Deif, was killed in a strike last month, according to Israel. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz wrote on X that al-Sinwar is an "arch-terrorist" and that his elevation "is yet another compelling reason to swiftly eliminate him and wipe this vile organization off the face of the earth." The Hamas-run Health Ministry says more than 39,600 people have died in Gaza since the start of the current war between Israel and Hamas. Iran's response to Israel looms Tehran and Hezbollah have threatened massive retaliation for the killings of Haniyeh and Shukr, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of severe consequences should they do so. The head of the pro-Iranian Hezbollah movement Hassan Nasrallah said Tuesday that "our response is coming and it will be strong and effective." Nasrallah told thousands of his followers via video that, regardless of the consequences, his movement cannot let the assassinations go unpunished. He said a retaliatory strike could occur together with other groups in the so-called "Axis of Resistance," including those in Iraq and Yemen. Iran's leadership has also vowed to exact vengeance. Hezbollah has said it is acting in solidarity with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, and that if the fighting there stops, the movement will lay down its weapons in southern Lebanon. Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants have traded border fire on a near daily basis since the October 7 attacks. In the latest incident, Israeli airstrikes on Tuesday targeted a southern Lebanese village, killing five people, the Lebanese Health Ministry said in a statement. Hezbollah said its fighters targeted a building used by Israeli soldiers in northern Israel in response. Israel said several civilians were injured to the south of the city of Nahariya by Hezbollah fire. Northern Israel residents advised to stay close to bomb shelters Local authorities in northern Israel are calling on the residents of several communities to stay close to bomb shelters due to the heightened tensions in the region. The request was made to those living in Nahariya, around 10 kilometres from the border with Lebanon, as well as communities near the Golan Heights, Israeli media reported. The appeal was seen as a precautionary measure, as the Israeli military has yet to deliver its own such request. Diplomatic push to ease tensions US President Joe Biden spoke separately on the phone with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani about "efforts to de-escalate regional tensions," a White House statement said on Tuesday. Elsewhere, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said there was still time to avert a major military escalation. "I urgently appeal to everyone in the region to abandon the path of ever-increasing escalation. De-escalation is the order of the day," she wrote on X. "Another war will only bring new suffering on all sides. There is still a chance to turn things around. Escalation is not automatic," Baerbock added. In 2022, New Hampshire saw 1,014 deaths from either suicide, alcohol, or drugs. (Getty Images) New Hampshire has been named the healthiest state in the country two years running by the United Health Foundation, largely because of its low rates of homicide, poverty, and unemployment. Its doing considerably worse when it comes to deaths related to suicide, drugs, and alcohol, according to a new report from Trust for Americas Health, a national health policy and research organization. The Granite State percentage increases were way above the national average in all three categories and particularly high in drug deaths related to fentanyl, cocaine, and other psychostimulants, which includes methamphetamine, said Brandon Reavis, one of the reports co-authors. The report, which measured changes between 2021 and 2022, showed all opioid deaths in New Hampshire increased 13 percent compared to 1 percent nationwide. Deaths due to synthetic opioids, which includes fentanyl, went up 20 percent, far higher than the 4 percent increase nationwide. Cocaine- and other psychostimulant-related overdose deaths were up 39 percent and 50 percent, respectively. Nationally, the increases were 12 percent and 4 percent, according to the report. These are significant numbers, and I think it really points to the role of fentanyl in increasing the danger of our drug supply, Reavis said. The report includes policy recommendations, such as measures to improve economic and social factors and reduce negative childhood experiences associated with substance use disorder, increased risks of sex trafficking and teen pregnancy, and struggles with school and holding a job. IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW needs help with mental illness: Dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or visit 988lifeline.org. New Hampshire also offers help via phone, text, and chat 24 hours a day through its Rapid Response Access Point. A 988 operator can connect you or call or text 833-710-6477. To chat, visit nh988.com. NAMI New Hampshire can connect you and your family with resources. Dial 1-800-242-6264 or visit naminh.org. The report also shows where New Hampshire is doing well. That includes legislation lawmakers passed a year ago that legalized testing strips for fentanyl and xylazine, a veterinary sedative that doesnt respond to Narcan. Thats an important development, Reavis said. But our focus primarily is on how do we prevent and mitigate adverse childhood experiences like abuse and neglect, because those traumatic experiences do have a direct connection to serious mental illness and addiction later in life as well as a whole range of physical health issues. We wont be able to get the kind of foundational and generational changes that were looking for until we address those connections. The numbers In 2022, New Hampshire saw 1,014 deaths from either suicide, alcohol, or drugs. That was a 10 percent increase from 2021, the greatest increase of any state; nationwide those deaths dropped 1 percent, the report said. Broken down by cause, 247 deaths were attributed to suicide; 486 to drugs, and 295 to causes related to alcohol. (The sum of those numbers is slightly higher than the overall count because the latter does not include the 14 people who died from more than one factor.) Among the drug overdose deaths, each of which can involve multiple drugs, synthetic opioids like fentanyl played a role in most of them at 415. The report also looked at behaviors between 2021 and 2022. For people aged 12 and above, 16 percent reported using illicit drugs in the prior month. Among high schoolers, 25 percent reported having serious thoughts of suicide in the past year and 36 percent said their mental health was not good most or all of the time. New Hampshire did worse in both categories than the rest of New England. The report also looked at the rates of adverse childhood experiences, which include experiencing abuse and neglect; being abandoned by a parent; having a parent with a mental health issue; living in a home where someone is incarcerated or substance use is a problem. Sixteen percent of New Hampshire children under 17 had at least two adverse childhood experiences. In New England, only Vermont and Maine reported higher rates, 20 percent and 18 percent, respectively. Room for improvement The state implemented the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline two years ago but hasnt provided permanent funding, Reavis said. There is also now a mobile crisis response team in every county, though response times have been slow, according to reporting by the Concord Monitor. Mental health advocates have said the state needs more teams to meet the need. According to a June study from Inseparable, a mental health advocacy group, New Hampshire could generate $1.3 million a year for the 988 line if it required telecommunication companies to charge customers 98 cents a month. The state uses a similar approach to help pay for 911. I think an area of focus at the state level is to make sure that there is a sustainable plan in place to fund the lifeline, Reavis said. Then folks in crisis can access the services they deserve and need. That will be a way to address the suicide rate that we see for New Hampshire, at least in part. Trust for Americas Health recommends states invest in harm reduction programs to mitigate drug overdose deaths. While New Hampshire lawmakers legalized the drug testing strips, they have rejected efforts to expand harm reduction measures to include other drug testing equipment. Bills seeking to use state money for syringe exchange programs, which now use at times unreliable grant funding, have also failed. On the right track New Hampshire has implemented some of the preventative measures Trust for Americas Health said could help reduce the risks of deaths related to suicide, alcohol, and drugs. It has a safe gun law intended to protect minors younger than 16. A person can be fined up to $1,000 if they know or should have known a child under 16 could access a firearm without a parents permission but only if the firearm is used in a reckless or threatening manner, to commit a crime, or is recklessly discharged. In recent years and especially since the pandemic, the state has significantly increased its behavioral health investments. It has used $30 million in federal pandemic aid to purchase and help build behavioral health hospitals. Lawmakers significantly increased Medicaid rates in the last budget to provide more funding for community mental health centers, the largest provider of behavioral health counseling for low-income children and adults. Lawmakers have also expanded Medicaid coverage to new mothers, from 60 days to one year after giving birth. The state has expanded access to medication that can reverse drug overdoses. It has also joined lawsuits against drug manufacturers, and as of February had invested $24 million from legal settlements in addressing the opioid crisis, according to the state Department of Justice. The state has also invested in programs to address the consequences of adverse childhood experiences, including a pilot program passed in 2022 for children up to age 6. RAPID CITY, S.D. (KELO) The international motorcycle group, Hamsters USA, raised $371,700 for LifeScape kids in West River South Dakota. The funds were raised Monday night at Hamsters USAs annual fundraiser held in Spearfish, during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, according to a LifeScape Foundation news release. The funding will assist West River children in gaining greater independence through physical, occupational, speech, and behavior therapies. Sturgis Rally traffic trending behind 5-year average This years total puts the accumulated contributions over the $5 million mark, LifeScape Foundation President Jessica Wells said in the news release. For 19 years, Hamsters USA has been our strong partner, ensuring children with disabilities get the help they need. Five-year-old Olivia Bybee of rural Custer, who gets physical therapy at LifeScape, attended with her family. Olivia learned to walk with LifeScapes help and continues to improve her balance and coordination. Olivia Bybee with Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden For the third year, Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden was a special guest at the event. Ive seen a little girl who couldnt walk, Olivias mom, Sara, said in the news release. That little girl can walk now and doesnt want to hold my hand anymore. And thats worth more than anything. In 2023, LifeScape Rapid City served 1,200 children. LifeScape clinicians drive over 10,000 miles each month to deliver outreach therapies to kids in their homes, schools and daycare centers. This outreach service brings developmental help to the children rather than parents taking time off work to drive their kids to therapy in Rapid City. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. Freddie Freeman, the All-Star first baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers, recently announced that his son Max has returned home after spending eight days in Pediatric ICU. Naturally, fans want to know what happened to Max and how he is now. So, heres what we have learned about Maxs illness. What illness does Freddie Freemans son suffer from? The doctors have diagnosed three-year-old Max with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, which is a rare neurological disorder that leads to an individuals immune system attacking part of their peripheral nervous system. Symptoms include weakness, numbness, sensation changes, and issues with digestion and/or bladder control. Although the condition doesnt have a cure, it has highly effective treatments (via National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke). The symptom in Maxs case was paralysis. As per an Instagram post shared by Freemans wife, Chelsea, on July 24, Max had a slight limp when he woke up in the morning. Only four days later, he was fully paralyzed. He was admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit so his lungs could re-inforced. On Wednesday, July 31, his breathing tube was taken out, and he was removed from the ventilator. In their joint Sunday, August 4 post on Instagram, Freeman and Chelsea revealed that their youngest son was finally home. After 8 long days in the Pediatric ICU we are officially HOME! Max still has a long road ahead of him to regain his strength and relearn how to walk, they shared in the caption of a photo with Max at the hospital. But we are so thankful to have our family back together. The post continued, After 8 long days in the Pediatric ICU we are officially HOME! Max still has a long road ahead of him to regain his strength and relearn how to walk. But we are so thankful to have our family back together. At the time of Maxs hospital admission, Freeman was in Houston, Texas, for a series with Houston Astros and immediately returned home. He rejoined the Dodgers on Monday, August 5, and took part in a game against the Philadelphia Phillies. The post What Happened to Freddie Freemans Son? Illness & Health Update appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Reactivating Mud Island Park is on the citys radar, officials say, but so far a plan for its future is as cloudy as the muddy Mississippi. Mayors administration officials say they are working with stakeholders on a master plan for Mud Island, and for the entire riverfront. We are going to activate this, you have our promise, interim city COO Antonio Adams told City Council on Tuesday, promising to bring a redevelopment plan to them at some point in the future. But they admit theres no solid plan on how to resuscitate Mud Island Park, which many describe as being on life support. It is the first park you seen when youre going across the bridge, and it shouldnt look dead, Council Member Jana Swearengen-Washington said. When I was over there, even some of the tourists that were walking asked me, Whats going on? What happened with the park?' Mud Island River Park opened in 1982 but has seen better days. The monorail that once ferried visitors over the harbor hasnt been in use since 2018 and has become a target for vandals. The amphitheater hasnt hosted a concert since 2018. Escalators arent working. No water flows in parts of the riverwalk. Restaurants, a gift shop, and a museum are long-closed and much of the interior is left in the dark. Mud Island monorail mothballed, city leader says The Mud Island monorail hasnt operated since 2018. A person sleeps at the entrance to Mud Island. The scale model of the Mississippi River is mostly dry. A non-working escalator in a dark passageway on Mud Island. Paper covers doors near the former museum on Mud Island. An empty former gift shop on Mud Island Empty ticket counters Flowers bloom with the downtown skyline in the background. Downtown Memphis skyline from Mud Island. (David Royer WREG) I think more happens over there than people realize, but is it the amount of activations that we want to see? Probably not, said Parks Director Nick Walker. One council member asked MRPP director Carol Coletta, whose nonprofit is tasked with the day-to-day maintenance of the park, why she found the restrooms locked on a recent visit. Coletta replied that the restrooms had recently been redone, but were quickly closed because feces and blood were smeared all over the restrooms because there are so few people on Mud Island, and the unhoused began to occupy the restrooms. There is a major problem with unhoused people sleeping in hidden places in the park, Coletta said. Community event hopes to save Mud Island Amphitheater Council members asked city and MRPP officials what happened to some of the recent proposals for Mud Island, including a zip line and a Ferris wheel. Adams didnt have an answer, but he urged caution before moving ahead with more riverfront investments, to make sure there is a larger purpose behind the development. We put a lot of money into Beale Street Landing. We thought it was going to be a great idea. We then built a deck, and were not actively using it, Adams said. We invest in things, and then we dont bring it forward, and we dont actively use it. Then it becomes a wasted resource. Council Member Yolanda Cooper-Sutton wanted to see more immediate action on Mud Island to compete with other cities, including West Memphis. If we dont be very careful and intentional and move aggressively, because were so far behind, the bridge over there, West Memphis, Arkansas is going to snatch our tourism right from under our nose, because they are working on something, Cooper-Sutton said. So if we dont watch ourselves, we are going to miss the ship, again, with a lot of talk and as one lady said, no action. And spending taxpayer dollars on worthless things. $43M Beale Street Landing hasnt seen a boat in a year City officials did not give a timetable for when the new study of Mud Island and the riverfront would be finished. This is not an overnight thing, This is going to take some time, Walker said. Two new attractions are planned to open on Mud Island by the end of the year: Mahogany Restaurant and Baron von Opperbean and the River of Time, an immersive experience planned in the former museum. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. Vice President Harris has nearly doubled President Bidens lead over former President Trump in New York since launching her campaign last month, according to a new poll. The new Siena College poll found Harris has a 14-point lead over the former president with 53 percent of support among New York voters, while Trump trails with 39 percent of support from his home state. Harriss lead is up from Bidens 8-point margin over Trump when the poll was taken in late June. The poll also showed Harris with a lead over the former president in a six-way race including third-party and independent candidates. Harris received 49 percent of support, Trump received 39 percent and independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. received 7 percent. The poll additionally found Harris has support from 86 percent of New York Democrats, which is up from the 75 percent who supported Biden in June. The poll also found Harris leads among Black voters with 81 percent of support, compared to Trumps 11 percent of support. The landscape has changed since the last Siena College poll. The change at the top of the Democratic ticket has had a noticeable, while not dramatic, effect on the horserace, Siena College pollster Steven Greenberg said in a statement. The poll also found that Harris has expanded the gender gap in support since replacing Biden at the top of the ticket, now leading Trump by 34 percentage points among women in New York. In comparison, Biden had an 18-point lead over Trump among women in June. Greenberg noted it was not young voters who helped boost Harriss support. Interestingly, it wasnt young voters that moved the needle. Among voters under 35, Harris leads 49-34%, down a little from the 51-32% lead Biden had in June. Harris big pickup was among voters 35-54, who favor her 54-40%, after backing Trump 44-41% over Biden in June, he said. The poll was conducted from July 28 to Aug. 1 among 1,199 likely voters in New York. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 4 percentage points. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Vice President Kamala Harris speaks in Greensboro, North Carolina, July 11, 2024. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images) When Kamala Harris was Californias top prosecutor, she was concerned that mergers among hospitals, physician groups, and health insurers could thwart competition and lead to higher prices for patients. If she wins the presidency in November, shell have a wide range of options to blunt monopolistic behavior nationwide. The Democratic vice president could influence the Federal Trade Commission and instruct the departments of Justice and Health and Human Services to prioritize enforcement of antitrust laws and channel resources accordingly. Already, the Biden administration has taken an aggressive stance against mergers and acquisitions. In his first year in office, President Joe Biden issued an executive order intended to intensify antitrust enforcement across multiple industries, including health care. Under Biden, the FTC and DOJ have fought more mergers than they have in decades, often targeting health care deals. What Harris could do is set the tone that she is going to continue this laser focus on competition and health care prices, said Katie Gudiksen, a senior health policy researcher at University of California College of the Law, San Francisco. The Harris campaign didnt respond to a request for comment. For decades, the health industry has undergone consolidation despite government efforts to maintain competition. When health systems expand, adding hospitals and doctor practices to their portfolios, they often gain a large enough share of regional health care resources to command higher prices from insurers. That results in higher premiums and other health care costs for consumers and employers, according to numerous studies. Health insurers have also consolidated in recent decades, leaving only a handful controlling most markets. Health care analysts say its possible for Harris to slow the momentum of consolidation by blocking future mergers that could lead to higher prices and lower-quality care. But many of them agree the consolidation that has already taken place is an inescapable feature of the U.S. health care landscape. Its hard to unscramble the eggs, said Bob Town, an economics professor at the University of Texas. There were nearly 1,600 hospital mergers in the U.S. from 1998 to 2017 and 428 hospital and health system mergers from 2018 to 2023, according to a KFF study. The percentage of community hospitals that belong to a larger health system rose from 53 in 2005 to 68 in 2022. And in another sign of market concentration, as of January, well over three-quarters of the nations physicians were employed by hospitals or corporations, according to a report produced by Avalere Health. Despite former President Donald Trumps hostility to regulation as a candidate, his administration was active on antitrust efforts though it did allow one of the largest health care mergers in U.S. history, between drugstore chain CVS Health and the insurer Aetna. Overall, Trumps Justice Department was more aggressive on mergers than past Republican administrations. Harris, as Californias attorney general from 2011 to 2017, jump-started health care investigations and enforcement. She pushed back against anticompetitive pricing, said Rob Bonta, Californias current attorney general, who is a Democrat. One of Harris most impactful decisions was a 2012 investigation into whether consolidation among hospitals and physician practices gave health systems the clout to demand higher prices. That probe bore fruit six years later after Harris successor, Xavier Becerra, filed a landmark lawsuit against Sutter Health, the giant Northern California hospital operator, for anticompetitive behavior. Sutter settled with the state for $575 million. In 2014, Harris was among 16 state attorneys general who joined the FTC in a lawsuit to dismantle a merger between one of Idahos largest hospital chains and its biggest physician group. In 2016, Harris joined the U.S. Department of Justice and 11 other states in a successful lawsuit to block a proposed $48.3 billion merger between two of the nations largest health insurers, Cigna and Anthem. Attempts to give the state attorney general the power to nix or impose conditions on a wide range of health care mergers have been fiercely, and successfully, opposed by Californias hospital industry. Most recently, the hospital industry persuaded state lawmakers to exempt for-profit hospitals from pending legislation that would subject private equity-backed health care transactions to review by the attorney general. A spokesperson for the California Hospital Association declined to comment. As attorney general of California, Harris work was eased by the states deep-blue political hue. Were she to be elected president, she could face a less hospitable political environment, especially if Republicans control one or both houses of Congress. In addition, she could face opposition from powerful health care lobbyists. Though it often gets a bad rap, consolidation in health care also confers benefits. Many doctors choose to join large organizations because it relieves them of the administrative headaches and financial burdens of running their own practices. And being absorbed into a large health system can be a lifeline for financially troubled hospitals. Still, a major reason health systems choose to expand through acquisition is to accumulate market clout so they can match consolidation among insurers and bargain with them for higher payments. Its an understandable reaction to the financial pressures hospitals are under, said James Robinson, a professor of health economics at the University of California-Berkeley. Robinson noted that hospitals are required to treat anyone who shows up at the emergency room, including uninsured people. Many hospitals have a large number of patients on Medicaid, which pays poorly. And in California, they face a series of regulatory requirements, including seismic retrofitting and nurse staffing minimums, that are expensive. How are they going to pay for that? Robinson said. At the federal level, any effort to blunt anticompetitive mergers would depend in part on how aggressive the FTC is in pursuing the most egregious cases. FTC Chair Lina Khan has made the FTC more proactive in this regard. Last year, the FTC and DOJ jointly issued new merger guidelines, which suggested the federal government would scrutinize deals more closely and take a broader view of which ones violate antitrust laws. In September, the FTC filed a lawsuit against an anesthesiology group and its private equity backer, alleging they had engaged in anticompetitive practices in Texas to drive up prices. In January, the agency sued to stop a $320 million hospital acquisition in North Carolina. Still, many transactions dont come to the attention of the FTC because their value is below its $119.5 million reporting threshold. And even if it heard about more deals, it is very underresourced and needing to be very selective in which mergers they challenge, said Paul Ginsburg, a professor of the practice of health policy at the University of Southern Californias Sol Price School of Public Policy. Khans term ends in September 2024, and Harris, if elected, could try to reappoint her, though her ability to do so may depend on which party controls the Senate. Harris could also promote regulations that discourage monopolistic behaviors such as all-or-nothing contracting, in which large health systems refuse to do business with insurance companies unless they agree to include all their facilities in their networks, whether needed or not. That behavior was one of the core allegations in the Sutter case. She could also seek policies at the Department of Health and Human Services, which runs Medicare and Medicaid, that encourage competition. Bonta, Californias current attorney general, said that, while there are bad mergers, there are also good ones. We approve them all the time, he said. And we approve them with conditions that address cost and that address access and that address quality. He expects Harris to bring similar concerns to the presidency if she wins. This story is republished from KFF Health News, a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF the independent source for health policy research, polling, and journalism. Harris campaign pushes back on claim Shapiro missed out on VP spot because of Jewish faith Kamala Harris campaign has rejected the suggestion that Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro was overlooked as her running mate because of his Jewish faith. Representatives said that the claims were ridiculous and offensive and that the vice president would always combat antisemitism whenever and wherever she sees it. Harris announced that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz would be joining the Democratic ticket on Tuesday. Shapiro, who is Jewish, was among several others tipped to be in the running. Some critics suggested that Shapiro had been sidelined because of his faith. Former Harvard law professor and controversial lawyer, Alan Dershowitz, wrote on X:Did Harris reject Shapiro because progressives dont like that hes Jewish? Kamala Harris campaign has rejected the suggestion that Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro was overlooked as her running mate because of his Jewish faith (REUTERS) Maury Litwack, an Orthodox Union executive who focuses on education policy and an advocate for Jewish voting, wrote: Democrats: You can be excited about the Walz pick but also be sad that an outright antisemitic campaign was waged against Shapiro. Some soul searching is needed. The Jewish community is a serious vote in 2024 and the voices of antisemitism and hate should have no platform. The Independent has contacted the Harris campaign for comment on the claims. In a statement to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, a Harris spokesperson vehemently rejected the accusation that Shapiros faith or stances on Israel was a consideration. Assertions that Vice President Harris did not select Gov. Shapiro based on his religion or views on Israel are absolutely ridiculous and offensive, the statement said. Vice President Harris has an unwavering commitment to Israels security, as she reaffirmed last night following the meeting in the Situation Room She will always combat antisemitism whenever and wherever she sees it. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro appeared at the Democratic campaign rally on Tuesday, speaking ahead of Harris and Walz (Getty Images) On Tuesday night, Shapiro appeared ahead of Harris and Walz at their debut rally in Philadelphia and gave his full support. "I want you to know I am going to continue to pour my heart and soul into serving you every single day and Im going to be working my tail off to make sure we make Kamala Harris and Tim Walz the next leaders of the United States of America, he told crowds. "Let me tell you about my friend Kamala Harris, someone Ive been friends with for two decades. She is courtroom tough. She has a big heart. And she is battle tested and ready to go. "Whether in a courtroom, whether fighting as Attorney General, whether remembering the people who have oftentimes been left behind when she was sitting in the halls of power in the Senate, Kamala Harris has always understood that you have to be every day for the people." Harris thanked Shapiro when she took the stage and referred to him as a dear friend and an extraordinary leader. He and I have been spending a lot of time together over the years, she said, to cheers and applause. And I told Josh, look, I am so so invested in our friendship, in doing this together, because together with Josh Shapiro, we will win Pennsylvania." By Jonathan Stempel (Reuters) - CrowdStrike's legal troubles from last month's massive global computer outage deepened on Monday, as the cybersecurity company was sued by air travelers whose flights were delayed or canceled. In a proposed class action filed in the Austin, Texas, federal court, three fliers blamed CrowdStrike's negligence in testing and deploying its software for the outage, which also disrupted banks, hospitals and emergency lines around the world. The plaintiffs said that as fliers scrambled to get to their destinations, many spent hundreds of dollars on lodging, meals and alternative travel, while others missed work or suffered health problems from having to sleep on the airport floor. They said CrowdStrike should pay compensatory and punitive damages to anyone whose flight was disrupted, after technology-related flight groundings for Southwest Airlines and other carriers in 2023 made the outage "entirely foreseeable." CrowdStrike said in a statement: "We believe this case lacks merit and we will vigorously defend the company." It provided an identical statement in response to a shareholder lawsuit filed on July 31, after the company's stock price had fallen by about one-third. The outage stemmed from a flawed software update that crashed more than 8 million computers. Delta Air Lines has said it may take legal action against Austin-based CrowdStrike after canceling more than 6,000 flights, at a cost of about $500 million. On Sunday, CrowdStrike said it was neither grossly negligent nor at fault for Delta's problems, and that the Atlanta-based carrier did not accept its offer for help. Delta faces a U.S. Department of Transportation probe into why it needed more time than rivals to recover from the outage. Monday's case is del Rio et al v CrowdStrike Inc, U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas, No. 24-00881. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Marguerita Choy) RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) As Tropical Storm Debby slogs its way up to North Carolina this week dumping heavy rain as it slows down a top political candidate has pulled out of a Raleigh appearance. Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic nominee, had planned to visit Raleigh Thursday as part of a barnstorm of battleground states, but has now canceled her appearance. The cancelation in Raleigh is because of expected impacts from Debby, Harris campaign officials said Monday night. Earlier Monday, Harris also canceled an appearance in Savannah that was planned for Friday. For now, it appears the other battleground visits are still moving forward. Those include Philadelphia; Eau Claire, Wisconsin; Detroit; Phoenix, Arizona; and Las Vegas, according to the campaign. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris chose Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her choice for vice president on the ticket. In an Instagram post on Aug. 6, Harris said that she was "proud to announce" that Walz had been chosen. "We are going to build a great partnership. We are going to build a great team. We are going to win this election," Harris said. Harris' choice of Walz as her running mate caps off an intense and fast-tracked process that began after President Joe Biden dropped out of the race in July. Walz has served as governor of Minnesota since 2019 after spending 12 years in Congress. He is an army veteran, having enlisted in the National Guard as a teenager and serving for another 24 years. Walz was also a high school teacher before entering politics. The selection of Walz comes as Harris has made gains against Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump in recent polls, closing the gap in many key states. Minnesota reliably votes Democratic, and the choice of Walz as running mate is not thought to have been motivated by a desire to secure the state. Walz previously met President Volodymyr Zelensky in 2023 in a conversation organized by the National Governors Association. "It was an honor to hear from President Zelensky firsthand and offer him our unwavering support," Walz said at the time. "Minnesota is a proud home to many Ukrainian families, and we will continue to welcome and support Ukrainian refugees in our state." Read also: Kamala Harris secures Democratic presidential nomination Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. (Bloomberg) -- Kamala Harris clinched the Democratic nomination for president on Monday, prevailing in a virtual roll call vote a day before she is expected to name her running mate. Most Read from Bloomberg With the vote, Harris became the first Black woman and Asian American to lead a major US political partys presidential ticket. The vice president, 59, is expected to ceremoniously accept the nomination at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago later this month, after which she can be certified on state ballots. She was already the presumptive nominee; President Joe Biden endorsed her after ending his reelection bid and no other challenger made the ballot. Harris first order of business will be announcing her running mate a decision the campaign is expected to share Tuesday. She met Sunday with at least three possible picks, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, according to people familiar with her plans. Harris also spoke with other contenders, just not in person, the people said. The short list of potential choices has trended White and male, and included multiple elected officials from states Democrats are targeting to prevent Trump from clinching a win in the Electoral College. Harris plans to barnstorm battlegrounds with her running mate starting Tuesday with a rally in the key battleground state of Pennsylvania. The campaign said more than 33,000 people have signed up to volunteer in the state in a little over two weeks. Though it amounted to a formality, the delegate vote brought one tumultuous chapter of the 2024 presidential contest to a close, even as it opened a new one a truncated race against Republican Donald Trump. She won 99% of votes, according to a statement from the Democratic National Committee. Harris nomination caps a stretch that saw Democrats whipsawed for more than a month. First, party members panicked at Bidens disastrous June 27 debate performance, then prevailed on him in public and private to step aside and ultimately flocked to Harris as their best shot at stopping Trump from returning to the Oval Office. A mood of gloom about Bidens fading chances has been replaced for now with the energy of a party that discovered a better alternative had been right there, all along. The candidate swap shook up what was starting to look like Trumps election to lose. It has forced Republicans to switch tactics after months of training focus on the 81-year-old presidents age while capitalizing on a dearth of enthusiasm for Biden among key segments of the Democratic base: Black voters, younger adults and Latinos. Trump, 78, and his surrogates stumbled in the earliest days, struggling for an attack line on a younger, more poised candidate. The Harris campaign said it raised a record $310 million in July, a flood of contributions that eliminated Trumps fundraising lead. Democratic Party officials reported a surge of would-be volunteers. Instead of seizing momentum after surviving an assassination attempt and reveling in his supporters adulation at the Republican National Convention, Trump found his campaign on the defensive. His challenges were amplified when reporters combed through past interviews of his running mate, Senator JD Vance of Ohio, in which he made a series of attacks on childless adults especially women, a group among which Trump already lagged even before Harris emerged as his rival. New Race Still, Trump continues to poll ahead of his numbers from four years ago. Having erased Bidens early lead in fundraising, the former president is well-positioned to attack Harris in crucial Midwestern and Sun Belt states that represent her most likely paths to assemble the 270 Electoral College votes needed to win the White House. With three months before Election Day, the two parties are testing new messages and lines of attack, and watching anxiously to see if the damage Trump managed to do to Bidens chances in swing states like Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin had been repaired by Harris. A new Bloomberg News/Morning Consult poll showed Harris ahead of Trump 48% to 47% a statistical tie in the seven states most likely to decide the election. The vice presidents ascension to the top of the ticket essentially erased what had been a small but stable lead for Trump over the summer. As the race tightened, Trump lashed out, including with a series of attacks on Harris racial identity. In a tense interview with the National Association of Black Journalists in Chicago, Trump declared that Harris happened to turn Black, and now she wants to be known as Black. The vice president, a Black woman, is the child of Indian and Jamaican immigrants. The testy performance was a far cry from the Trump campaigns rhetoric of previous weeks, in which the candidate and his advisers had boasted of his appeal to Black voters, long a core Democratic bloc. Harris denounced Trumps remarks, including insults directed at the journalists conducting the NABJ interview, saying the American people deserve better. In other venues, Harris and her surrogates have focused on branding Trump and Vance as targets of bemusement. By the way, Harris said Tuesday at her Atlanta rally, dont you find some of their stuff to be just plain weird? Campaign Rush Now the advertising wars have begun in earnest, with both campaigns announcing that they purchased large blocks of TV time. The Trump campaign is leaning hard into the border, trying to tie Harris to voter concerns about migration, though illegal border crossings have been falling. Harris has quickly pivoted to campaign in states that had seemed to be slipping out of reach for Biden before he stepped aside. She began last Tuesday with a rally in Atlanta, a direct appeal to Democratic voters in that city who would have to turn out in huge numbers to give her a chance at winning Georgia the state that pushed Biden over the top to defeat Trump in 2020. Trump and Vance also held a rally in Atlanta on Saturday. Trumps choice of Vance was broadly seen within his party as a show of confidence about how the campaign was unfolding in late July. Though his Ohio roots could help in the Midwest, Vances hard-right positions on issues like abortion signaled to some Republicans that Trump saw no need to be conciliatory and win back voters turned off by him. Trumps conduct has been at the center of Democratic attacks, which have focused on his New York felony conviction for paying hush money to cover up an affair with an adult film star in order to influence the 2016 election. The former president was also found liable of sexual assault and ordered to pay $83 million for defaming his accuser. Harris pick could set off speculation about the way her campaign views its own strengths and weaknesses. A swing state governor to deliver a crucial chunk of electoral votes? An anodyne personality, to counter-balance as Trump tries to portray Harris as a liberal radical? Whoever Harris picks, the sprint phase has arrived. The campaigns will have about 90 days to figure out what type of history will be made on Nov. 5. --With assistance from Gregory Korte. (Adds additional details. A previous version corrected timing of vice presidential announcement) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. To say that the past two weeks have been jaw-dropping is to underestimate the number of racist and sexist remarks that conservatives have aimed at Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic nominee. In a stunning moment at the National Association of Black Journalists convention, former President Donald Trump challenged whether Harris is really Black. He said that he didnt know that shes Black until some years ago, when she happened to turn Black, and now she wants to be known as Black. (He also disrespected the Black women interviewing him, sniping at their questions.) The former Fox News personality Megyn Kelly tried to smear Harris, who previously served as a U.S. senator from California, the attorney general of California, and the district attorney of San Francisco. She said, falsely, that Harris had to sleep her way into and upwards in California politics because shes nothing more than an unqualified political aspirant. And the conservative activist Tom Fitton made plain that the birtherism ideology has returned. He suggested, erroneously, that since the Oakland native was born to an Indian mother and a Jamaican father, shes ineligible to run for president. Republican leaders have urged their colleagues and allies to avoid using racist and sexist language when they rail against Harris. But assaults on her identity will likely be repackaged turned into dog whistles not extinguished: Trumps team has warned that it intends to Willie Horton Harris, referring to the George H.W. Bush ad from 1988 that manipulated white fears of crime. Plus, feeding racial animus has been a consistent GOP campaign tactic, especially since the Obama years; it isnt disappearing anytime soon. Or, as Chryl Laird, an associate professor of government and politics at the University of Maryland College Park, previously told Capital B, This is a Republican Party that isnt as moderate as it used to be that has gone further to the right, crystallizing race- and sex-based prejudices that were already there. Birtherism is back In some ways, Harris is facing the same abuse that former President Barack Obama was confronted with during his 2008 bid for the White House. The claim that Obama was born in Kenya, and as a result not constitutionally eligible to be president, stalked his campaign, in particular as he prepared to square off against U.S. Sen. John McCain of Arizona in the general election. Honolulu-born Obama attempted to scotch the gossip by publishing a copy of his short-form birth certificate. But even official documentation didnt put the conspiracy, known as birtherism, to rest. Instead, rumors spread that the certificate was bogus. And in 2011, Trump breathed new life into the rumors on an episode of The View: Why doesnt he show his birth certificate? he asked. I wish he would, because I think its a terrible pall thats hanging over him. Theres something on that birth certificate that he doesnt like. Read More: Why the GOPs Calls for Unity Feel Hollow to Many Black Americans But Trump didnt stop at calling for the long-form version of Obamas birth certificate. Perhaps unintentionally, he revealed the racial dimension of his demand when he tried to explain why no one had ever requested that former President George W. Bush provide proof of his citizenship. Im not saying Im a fan of George Bush. You know that better than anybody. But George Bush was born in this country, Trump insisted, as if it were preposterous that someone with Obamas name and parentage could be a U.S. citizen. This is the same birtherism conspiracy that made an appearance onstage at NABJ when Trump attempted to other Harris by asking, Is she Indian or is she Black? and that Fitton spewed online. Its an automatic racist response, Alvin Tillery, the founding director of Northwestern Universitys Center for the Study of Diversity and Democracy, told NPR. Its also white supremacy saying, We can define you. You dont get to define yourself. Trump was prepared to battle an 81-year-old white man. He wasnt prepared to spar with an Obama 2.0 figure who has generated a level of joy and enthusiasm among Black voters that was absent even just a couple of weeks ago, and who has eroded his leads in battleground states. The campaign is no longer going Trumps way, and, clearly, he and his supporters are panicking. Understanding intersectionality Yet, as a Black and South Asian American woman, Harris must stave off attacks directed not only at her mixed heritage but also at her gender. This is hardly the first time shes had to defend against such attacks. In 2020, Nina Jankowicz, a disinformation and democratization authority, led a study investigating the gendered harassment women political candidates were grappling with. She and her co-authors found some 336,000 pieces of abuse and disinformation targeting 13 candidates. And the person who bore the brunt of this assault? Harris. According to the 2021 report, she accounted for 78% of the total amount of recorded instances. A few years later, this harassment is as powerful as ever. Recall Kellys fabrication that Harris had to sleep her way to success. Its the exact kind of lie thats too often weaponized against ambitious women (it also downplays Trumps actual sexual transgressions). Additionally, there was U.S. Rep. Harriet Hagemen of Wyomings baseless claim that Harris is an undeserving and unqualified DEI hire. (Notably, Harris has been in elected office longer than Trump and his running mate, U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio, combined.) Read More: The Sense of Urgency to Protect and Elect Kamala Harris This invective shines a light on a much broader failure to understand and prioritize the intersectional challenges undermining Black women, especially Black women hoping to win at the ballot box. Our current political environment makes it all the more important that frameworks such as intersectionality remain part of our social justice vocabulary, Kimberle Crenshaw, a pioneering scholar of critical race theory, told Capital B. Thats the only way we can really understand the dual and multiple disadvantages that some members of our groups experience and why theyre so easily and effortlessly targeted by this anti-woke cabal. For months, Trump and his allies have sought to make inroads with Black voters or, at a minimum, depress turnout among this group thats long formed the backbone of the Democratic Party. But the racist and sexist vitriol theyve been training on Harris since her abrupt arrival at the top of the ticket is doing them no favors. If anything, its angering many Black voters boosting their resolve to prevent Trump from securing a second term. I have no doubt that shes going to win. I have no doubt, Rhoda Howard, a retiree in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, told Capital B. Particularly with all this name-calling and stuff. Are you kidding me? Are you serious? Were all adults here. Come on. The post Harris, Like Obama, Must Defend Her Identity Along With Her Policy Positions appeared first on Capital B News. Vice President Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) to be her running mate as she heads toward a November faceoff against former President Trump, she announced Tuesday. Harris announced her choice of Walz in a post on Instagram and in a text message to supporters, praising his support for middle class families and his personal history serving in the National Guard and working as a teacher. I share this background both because its impressive in its own right, and because you see in no uncertain terms how it informs his record, Harris wrote on Instagram. But what impressed me most about Tim is his deep commitment to his family: Gwen, Gus, and Hope, she added, referencing Walzs wife and children. Doug and I look forward to working with him and Gwen to build an administration that reflects our shared values. We are going to build a great partnership, Harris wrote. We are going to build a great team. We are going to win this election. Walz, 60, emerged as a dark horse contender for the No. 2 slot as chatter over other high-profile names, in particular Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly (D), dominated the early portion of the veepstakes. But the Minnesota governor saw his profile rise considerably over the past week, especially after a viral cable news interview in which he derided some Republicans as weird a line of attack later adopted by national Democrats. Live updates: Harris picks battle-tested Walz as her running mate His selection concludes a whirlwind two-week period that saw President Biden end his reelection bid, Harris consolidate support within the party to become the presumptive nominee, and the vice presidents team rapidly vet contenders to join her on the ticket in November. The pick drew praise from both progressive and more moderate Democrats. Vice President Harris made an excellent decision in Gov. Walz as her running mate, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) posted on the social platform X. Together, they will govern effectively, inclusively, and boldly for the American people. They wont back down under tight odds, either from healthcare to school lunch. Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas), who was the first House Democrat to call for Biden to step aside, called Walz a solid, decent former colleague with good humor, a former teacher and veteran, who represented a Minnesota district usually represented by the GOP. You cant not get along with no-nonsense Tim, Doggett posted on X. As Governor, he offers a straight-talking, compassionate leader delivering the progress we need. Harris had not made up her mind on a running mate as of Monday night, taking the decision up until the final hours. Walz was also seen by many as a safer choice for Harris thanks to his liberal bona fides and the fact that some of the other contenders had come under fire from certain segments of the left. Shapiro received heavy scrutiny recently over his response to pro-Palestinian protests that emerged in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war, and both he and Kelly drew the ire of union leaders. Adding to Walzs appeal is the fact that he hails from a Midwestern state that Trump has increasingly set his sights on flipping. Though Biden won Minnesota in 2020 by 7 points, and no Republican has won the presidential race there in more than 50 years, Trump and his running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance (R), have stepped up their efforts to campaign in the state. But he is not without vulnerabilities. Republicans are likely to use some of his policy positions on abortion and LGBTQ issues to paint him as a radical liberal, just as they have with Harris. Walz was governor of Minnesota during the riots that followed the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, and Republicans are certain to highlight images of that tumultuous time. The Trump campaign had previously attacked Harris for promoting a bail fund for demonstrators arrested in Minnesota following Floyds death. Its no surprise that San Francisco Liberal Kamala Harris wants West Coast wannabe Tim Walz as her running-mate Walz has spent his governorship trying to reshape Minnesota in the image of the Golden State, Trump campaign press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement. From proposing his own carbon-free agenda, to suggesting stricter emission standards for gas-powered cars, and embracing policies to allow convicted felons to vote, Walz is obsessed with spreading Californias dangerously liberal agenda far and wide, she added. If Walz wont tell voters the truth, we will: just like Kamala Harris, Tim Walz is a dangerously liberal extremist, and the Harris-Walz California dream is every Americans nightmare. Harris and Walz will storm battleground states this week, starting Tuesday evening in Philadelphia. The two will travel later this week to Wisconsin, Michigan, Arizona and Nevada. Planned trips to North Carolina and Georgia were reportedly postponed as Hurricane Debby made landfall in the Southeast. This story was first published at 8:51 a.m. ET Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Vice President Kamala Harris is on the verge of announcing who she wants to join her on the Democratic ticket for the White House. Harris held in-person interviews with some of the leading contenders over the weekend. Harris is headed into one of the biggest days of her campaign as the official Democratic presidential nominee. Its the most important single decision shell make in the early part of the campaign, said Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). Harris spent her weekend interviewing potential running mates including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly. Democratic lawmakers are weighing in on the process. Its going to be a personal choice, said Durbin. Political science expert Hans Noel says the main goal is to pick someone who wont shake things up too much. Being a vice president is also a platform from which people run for president in the future, said Noel. Noel says Harris is looking for a candidate who could help win in swing states. Of those swing states, Pennsylvania is the largest, its got the most at stake, Noel added. Tuesday night Harris and her VP pick will hold a joint rally in Philadelphia. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. US Vice President Kamala Harris has officially secured the necessary majority of delegate votes to be the Democratic Party's presidential candidate, the party said on Monday. Harris received 99% of the approximately 4,500 delegate votes cast, the Democratic Party announced. Harris achieved a majority shortly after voting opened on Friday, but voting continued until Monday evening. The announcement was not unexpected as no other candidate had thrown their hat into the Democratic race ring. Harris, whose nomination still needs to be officially certified at the party's convention set to begin on August 19, was now set to face former US president Donald Trump, the Republican Party's nominee. "Vice President Harris has historic momentum at her back as we embark on the final steps in officially certifying her as our Partys nominee," Democratic National Convention Committee chair Minyon Moore and Democratic National Committee chair Jaime Harrison said in a joint statement. "Soon, it will be time to come together in Chicago, where we will celebrate together and make clear to the American people that the Democratic Party is the party of freedom, of democracy, of rights, and of the people." US President Joe Biden, 81, endorsed Harris after announcing in July he would step down from the race following weeks of harsh media coverage over his age and questions about his ability to continue to do the job. Harris, the daughter of an Indian mother and Jamaican father, would be the first female US president if elected. By Jeff Mason and Nandita Bose WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Kamala Harris will unveil her vice presidential running mate on Tuesday, her first major decision as the Democratic Party's presidential candidate and another step in her quest to win the White House in November. Harris, the first woman and first Black and South Asian person to serve as vice president, has narrowed her list of candidates to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, sources told Reuters on Monday, after considering a field of finalists made up of white men with a record of winning over rural, white or independent voters. A campaign official said no calls were being made about a choice on Monday night, suggesting Harris had not told her potential running mates who would get the job. Harris became the Democratic Party's standard bearer after President Joe Biden ended his re-election campaign last month. Since then, she has raised hundreds of millions of dollars and recast the race against Republican Donald Trump with a boost of energy from her party's base. Although she had gathered enough delegates to be her party's nominee, the Democratic National Committee said late on Monday that she had officially secured the nomination. Harris is expected to appear with her running mate at an event in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening. Her selection will demonstrate her thinking about her best pathway to winning the presidency and show who she believes would serve as an effective governing partner should she prevail against Trump. Shapiro, 51, is a rising star in the party with strong approval ratings in Pennsylvania, whose 19 electoral votes make it a must-win state for both Harris and Trump. Walz, 60, serves as governor in a solidly Democratic state but has proven appeal to rural, white voters, who in recent years have voted broadly for Trump. Americans typically focus on the person at the top of the ticket when choosing whom to vote for, but vice presidential candidates can help or hurt their running mates based on their backgrounds, home state popularity and ability to sway important constituencies or independent voters. Trump's vice presidential pick, U.S. Senator JD Vance of Ohio, has had a rocky start since joining the Republican ticket, with old comments criticizing "childless cat ladies" drawing unwelcome attention and potentially alienating women voters. Vance will follow Harris and her new running mate to several swing states this week, the Trump campaign said, including stops in South Philadelphia on Tuesday and Michigan and Wisconsin on Wednesday. He plans to criticize Harris on economic issues and immigration. (Reporting by Jeff Mason and Nandita Bose; additional reporting by Nathan Layne and Chandni Shah; Editing by Colleen Jenkins, Stephen Coates and Neil Fullick) Williams Companies Inc showcases robust revenue growth despite market volatility. Strategic acquisitions strengthen the company's midstream asset portfolio. Operational efficiency and strong market presence underscore Williams Companies Inc's competitive edge. Future growth capital and investment expenditures signal confidence in continued expansion. Williams Companies Inc (NYSE:WMB), a leading midstream energy company, reported its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, in its latest 10-Q filing dated August 5, 2024. 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These external factors can create uncertainties that may affect Williams Companies Inc's operations and profitability. Environmental Concerns: Environmental concerns and the push for cleaner energy sources can lead to stricter regulations and a decline in the use of fossil fuels. Williams Companies Inc must navigate these challenges by investing in sustainable practices and aligning with environmental goals. In conclusion, Williams Companies Inc (NYSE:WMB) exhibits a strong market presence and operational efficiency, which are key strengths in the midstream energy sector. The company's strategic acquisitions and infrastructure projects present significant opportunities for growth. However, it must address weaknesses such as market volatility and high debt levels while preparing for threats from competitive pressures and environmental concerns. With careful management and strategic planning, Williams Companies Inc is well-positioned to continue its success in the evolving energy landscape. This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee and current U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz an outspoken Ukraine supporter as her running mate for the U.S. presidential elections this fall. Harriss selection of the 60-year-old midwestern to join her ticket closes what has been a frantic few weeks of vetting that traditionally takes months after U.S. President Joe Biden dropped out of the race. One of the things that stood out to me about Tim is how his convictions on fighting for middle class families run deep, Harris said in her official announcement on Instagram. What impressed me most about Tim is his deep commitment to his family. Since the start of the full-scale invasion, Walz has been a vocal advocate for Ukraine in its fight against Russia, signing legislation barring state agencies from doing business with Russian and Belarusian companies. His state is also home to weapons manufacturers that supply arms critical for Ukraines defense. Walz met virtually with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in April of 2023 for a conversation organized by the National Governors Association, the same group that hosted Zelensky in Utah following the NATO Summit in July. It was an honor to hear from President Zelensky firsthand and offer him our unwavering support, Walz said in a statement following the April meeting. Minnesota is a proud home to many Ukrainian families, and we will continue to welcome and support Ukrainian refugees in our state. When the German Marshall Fund visited Minnesota as a part of their Whistlestops for Ukraine tour rallying support for Ukraine in the countrys center, Walz was there. In February, the Minnesota governor established an agricultural partnership between Minnesota and Ukraines northern Chernihiv Oblast during a meeting with Oksana Markarova, the Ukrainian Ambassador. Once we drive the Russians out, we will have some cooperation, Walz said, discussing the agricultural partnership. Its a really important showing of friendship and a real important showing of ties. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz arrives to speak at a press conference regarding new gun legislation at City Hall in Bloomington, Minnesota, U.S., on Aug. 1, 2024. (Stephen Maturen/Getty Images) In addition to being a an agricultural state, Minnesota hosts facilities of two major defense companies. A facility of aerospace and defense company Northrop Grumman has helped produce drones and ammunition for the war-torn country. British multinational aerospace, defense and information security company BAE Systemss facility in the state has also helped produce howitzer parts provided to Ukraine. Jonathan Katz, a national security expert at the Brookings Institute, said what is arguably more notable than the weapons production is Walzs welcoming of Ukrainian refugees to Minnesota. Given the passionate hostility toward U.S. support of Ukraine displayed by Walzs future disputant, JD Vance, any pick by Harris would have satisfied advocates for Ukraine, comparatively. John Herbst, the former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, said selecting Walz was a mistake, not necessarily for Ukraine but for Harriss hopes of reaching moderate voters. As both Harris and Donald Trump need to reach moderate voters, Herbst finds it perplexing they both opted for non-moderate running mates. While Herbst thinks Harris and Walz can still defeat Trump, it is a bit harder without a direct moderate tie, he said. With the Walz selection, Herbst still expects Harris to carry out similar policies toward Ukraine as President Biden, possibly more aggressive. Katz, the national security expert at Brookings who tends to agree with Herbst on most all things Ukraine, disagrees. Between Walzs time serving on the Armed Services Committee in Congress to being trained on heavy artillery himself, Katz thinks Walz is not only the right pick for Harris but also for Ukraine. Due to his time on the committee, he understands what weapons allies need and how to navigate that foreign policy on the Hill, Katz said. Despite opting for the candidate deemed a liberal darling in recent days, Katz thinks Walz will still be able to reach into the center and attract moderate voters in swing states, pointing to his availability to succeed in rural and conservative Minnesota districts. U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris attends an NCAA championship teams celebration on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, DC, US, on July 22, 2024. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) Walz, a former Army National Guardsman and high school teacher, gained attention in recent weeks for beginning the trend of calling Trump weird. From abortion protection and gun restrictions to free school meals, Walz has delivered progressive policies for Minnesota. Doug Klain, a policy analyst in Washington for Razom for Ukraine, said Walz biggest asset to the Harris ticket is domestic, with his ability to bridge the urban-rural divide. As a veteran hes uniquely positioned to speak credibly to Americans on the necessity of American involvement in Europe, Klain said. Governor Walz has a strong track record on Ukraine and hes uniquely well-positioned thanks to his background to be a serious advocate of helping Ukraine win. Harris and Walz, who has been the chair of the Democratic Governors Association, will appear for their first time together Tuesday in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a frequent stop for both parties seeking the swing state of Pennsylvania in November. They will appear at Temple University, the same place Trump rallied in June. The newly linked pair will continue their swing-state travels by visiting Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada. They will then appear together again at the Democratic National Convention beginning on Aug. 19 in Chicago where they are expected to formally accept their delegate's votes. The de facto host of the DNC will be Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who was also in contention to join Harriss ticket. Walz now has a chance to continue introducing himself to the national stage, as a Reuters/Ipsos poll released just days before Harris selected Walz showed he was the candidate Americans knew least. Walz, who won re-election in 2022 and previously spent 12 years in Congress, ultimately emerged from a rapidly compiled group of a dozen Democrats largely representing swing states. Governors Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, and Andy Beshear of Kentucky were amongst the final contenders along with Pete Buttigieg, the transportation secretary, and Arizona Senator, Mark Kelly. Herbst questions why Harris didnt select Kelly or Shapiro, who wouldve brought moderate voters and a swing state along with them. Read also: Biden could cement his legacy by boosting Ukraine support, experts say Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The announcement of Tim Walz as Kamala Harriss running mate has shaken up the 2024 presidential race once again, and its also turning the clock back to 2020 when the country was riven by protests following the police murder of George Floyd. Walz was governor when police in his state pinned Floyd to the ground by his neck for more than nine minutes, sparking massive, sometimes violent, protests and looting across the Minneapolis area and the country. Republicans, predictably, have already seized on this moment in Walzs history, painting him as another soft-on-crime liberal who lost control of their city. They make an interesting tag team, because of course, Tim Walz allowed rioters to burn down Minneapolis in the summer of 2020, JD Vance, Walzs rival on the GOP ticket, told Fox News on Tuesday. Those on the left, meanwhile, found plenty to take issue with as well, criticizing heavy police tactics during the protests. So, how did Tim Walz respond to Floyds death? The most controversial part of the governors response to the tragedy came in the days that followed, as protests escalated into looting and arson in parts of Minneapolis, a conflagration that ultimately destroyed 1,500 businesses and buildings and caused an estimated $500m in damage. Parties still disagree over whether Walz activated the states National Guard too late, allowing Minneapolis to suffer. On Wednesday, May 27, two days after Floyds murder, Minneapolis Jacob Frey and then-police chief Medaria Arradondo both reached out to the governors office, requesting the Guard deploy in the city to stem the growing chaos. A man rides a scooter past the charred wreckage of a building after being burned to the ground during last weeks rioting sparked by the death of George Floyd on June 2, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota (Getty Images) "We expressed the seriousness of the situation. The urgency was clear," Frey said the following month, as criticisms mounted of the citys response to the protests. "He did not say yes...He said he would consider it." The Guard wasnt activated until the following afternoon, and even then they didnt arrive in time to stop a Minneapolis Police Department precinct from burning down that day. State officials say Walz hadnt gotten specific enough details about how Minneapolis planned to deploy the state troops. As a 24-year veteran of the Minnesota National Guard, Governor Walz knows how much planning goes into a successful mission, his office told the Minneapolis Star Tribune in 2020. Thats why he pushed the City of Minneapolis for details and a strategy. He ordered the Minnesota National Guard to start preparing Thursday morning which allowed them to deploy to both St. Paul and Minneapolis that evening, per the Mayors requests. He also faulted city leaders like Frey, calling their actions an abject failure. People look at the charred wreckage of a building destroyed during last week's rioting which was sparked by the death of George Floyd on June 2, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota (Getty Images) At the same time as he was beefing up the state response to the protests, he was also calling on fellow leaders to turn down the temperature, and criticizing Trump for tweeting when the looting starts, the shooting starts, which many interpreted as a coded threat to protesters of all stripes. In a moment that is so volatile, anything we do to add fuel to that fire is really, really challenging, Walz said at the time. The governor also leaned into an outside agitators narrative that some protest leaders felt delegitimized their complaints with racist policing in Minneapolis and elsewhere. Lets be very clear: The situation in Minneapolis is no longer in any way about the murder of George Floyd . It is about attacking civil society, instilling fear and disrupting our great cities, Walz said a few days into the protest, announcing that many of those arrested were from outside of Minneapolis Some Republican state leaders argued that it was Walzs liberal sympathies that slowed his decision to deploy the Guard, in what would eventually be the largest activation of state troops since WWII. It was obvious to me that he froze under pressure, under a calamity, as peoples properties were being burned down, State Senator Warren Limmer, a Republican, recently told The New York Times of the period. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and elected local leaders identified with the causes promoted by the demonstrators, causing them to lose sight of their responsibility to protect the public from criminal acts committed during the riots, a 2020 report from the state senate, then controlled by the GOP, found. A 2022 after-action review, commissioned by Minneapolis, found fault across the response to the protests, describing how police and fire officials neglected their own emergency plans and didnt set up an adequate command structure. They also found that Minneapolis police didnt keep any records of the chemical and riot control rounds they used on protests, injuring an estimated 45 people, despite policies requiring a use of force review for each such projectile. The report also described city leaders unfamiliar with the process for requesting National Guard troops. The information thats required by the Guard thats required to activate personnel, to put them into a civilian situation such as what was occurring in Minneapolis, the information simply wasnt there on the first day the request was made, according to the review. Others on the ground, meanwhile, say it was heavy-handed policing that escalated the protests in the first place. One of the citys employees has just murdered someone in the most brutal fashion, he said, and for you to then pretend like youre the victim and youre under siege, to fire mace and tear gas and rubber bullets in response to water bottles being thrown you have at that point 100 percent antagonized the situation, Minneapolis city council member Jeremiah Ellison said in 2020. After the protests subsided, Walz won praise for helping to pass multiple police and criminal justice reform packages in 2020 and 2023, which banned chokeholds, required police to intervene in use of excessive force, and reduced the states parole population. He also tapped his attorney general to prosecute Derek Chauvin, one of the officers involved in killing Floyd. The move was seen as an important reason for the cases success, which marked only the second time an on-duty Minneapolis police officer in the departments over 150-year history was charged with murder, and the first time involving an officer who is white. U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz have officially been certified as the Democratic party's nominees for president and vice president in the November election, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) announced on Aug. 6. Harris named Walz as her running mate in an Instagram post on Aug. 6, saying they would "build a great partnership" and "win this election." "It is my great honor and privilege to congratulate the Democratic Partys official nominees for President and Vice President, Kamala Harris and Tim Walz," said DNC Chair Jaime Harrison. The official certification follows a shakeup in the Democratic party after President Joe Biden dropped out of the race last month and endorsed Harris as his replacement. Biden's withdrawal triggered a nominating process in which delegates to the Democratic National Convention cast votes in a virtual roll call. Harris on Aug. 2 secured a majority of pledged delegates, ensuring her place at the top of the party's tickets. The roll call closed on Aug. 5. Harris and Walz accepted their nominations following the certification of the roll call, the DNC reported. The Democratic National Convention will take place in Chicago from Aug. 19 to 22. Harris and Walz will publicly accept their nominations as a formality, though their place on the ticket is confirmed. Harris and Walz held their first joint campaign rally in Philadelphia on Aug. 6. Read also: Harris VP pick Governor Tim Walz good news for Ukraine Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Hazel Park Schools administrators unveiled a plan at a board meeting Monday evening to better address what leaders acknowledged are increasing instances of restraint and seclusion at a school for students with behavioral disabilities. The plan follows a Detroit Free Press series that raised questions about the use of restraint and seclusion across Michigan, including at the Edison School, a Hazel Park school for students with behavioral disabilities. Experts, advocates and parents say restraint and seclusion, and particularly overuse of these tactics in schools, can traumatize children who may already be vulnerable. School staff members in Hazel Park secluded students with disabilities 330 times and restrained them 298 times in the first half of the 2023-24 school year, according to state data, which has not yet been updated to include the second half of the school year. The state data shows only the number of instances of restraint and seclusion by district, it is not separated by school, but board documents indicate that concern about restraint and seclusion is mainly based on instances recorded at the Edison School in elementary grades. The working plan to reduce use of these tactics would include randomly auditing paperwork to ensure proper restraint and seclusion processes are being followed, repurposing some seclusion rooms at Edison and working on more personalized plans to better address behavioral challenges for students experiencing restraint and seclusion on a regular basis. The district is also putting together a committee with behavioral professionals, educators and at least one parent. Leaders have proposed using a new program called Ukeru to train staff to better help students in crisis. Megan Papasian-Broadwell, Hazel Park's executive director of student services, said at the meeting that district leaders were compelled to act when officials noted an increase in restraint usage. "We recognize there is a significant need for us to put together a reduction plan so we have the right supports in place to ensure that these numbers go down," she told board members. A sign outside of Hazel Park Schools' administrative building pictured on Aug. 5, 2025. Hazel Park's board is considering a plan to reduce restraint and seclusion in schools. Melissa Freel, the parent of a former Edison student and the co-leader of Michigan Advocates to End Seclusion and Restraint, said her organization sent Hazel Park's board a letter on June 18 raising alarm over high seclusion and restraint numbers, which put the district "at the head of the pack" for seclusion among districts in Michigan. "I'm so happy because it means the spotlight is being shown on this practice in this school and it means ... somebody's paying attention now and that means the practice has got to change," she said. Seclusion frequently involves a staff member confining a student to a room alone. Some schools have rooms specifically meant for secluding children. A former Edison student told the Free Press that seclusion rooms were about the size of a cubicle, with three bare walls and a door. Restraint involves adults physically restraining a student. Michigan law allows schools to use seclusion and restraint only as a last resort, if a student poses a danger to themselves or others. But the Free Press found state restraint and seclusion legislation passed in 2016 didn't include any consequences, and whether schools follow those laws or accurately report how many times students are secluded or restrained is largely an honor system. Restraint and seclusion across Michigan In the 2022-23 school year, Michigan public school staff members reported secluding students with disabilities 11,910 times the most recorded in a single school year since the state started reporting this data in the 2017-18 school year and restraining them 9,076 times. Hazel Park had the most instances of seclusion, 272, recorded in the second quarter of the 2023-24 school year, out of any district in the state, following by Lincoln Park Schools and Genesee Intermediate School District. The second quarter runs from October to December. For the entire 2022-23 school year, Hazel Park recorded using seclusion 392 times on 34 different students with disabilities, the fifth-highest number of seclusions of all public school districts in the state that year. Figures to calculate Hazel Park's rate of using the tactics in comparison with other districts weren't readily available. Amy Kruppe, superintendent of Hazel Park Schools, said there is a waiting list to attend Edison, which accepts students experiencing high levels of trauma, which was exacerbated for some students during the coronavirus pandemic. While restraint and seclusion numbers have increased, Kruppe said, the district is not pointing fingers at Edison staff, but trying to strengthen support for them. The school has seen turnover, particularly in aides for students with disabilities, and better training may help. "It's not an easy job," she said. Freel's group and other advocacy organizations have for several years called for strengthened legislation to eradicate the use of seclusion and restraint in Michigan classrooms, but it's unclear whether there's an appetite in Lansing to make any changes. Though Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's spokesman in a statement in November 2022 wrote that it was "clear" Michigan could do more to curtail the use of these tactics in schools, state lawmakers have not done anything to address conspicuous gaps in the law, such as a lack of consequences for not following restraint and seclusion laws. Lawmakers leading education committees said in December 2023 they could not commit to any type of reform. Key groups representing Michigan teachers have been resistant to the idea of changes to the system, arguing there are already few protections for teachers in classrooms when violence strikes. Crisis intervention to cut down on restraint, seclusion Many school districts are already using crisis intervention programs, some as a way to cut down on restraint and seclusion, aiming to intervene in a crisis situation long before a student's behavior spins out of control or turns violent. Edison already regularly trains staff annually in nonviolent crisis intervention, but district administrators hope the new program they're considering, Ukeru, will better serve Hazel Park. "I think we have to disrupt the current processes in place to get another option and see if this works and helps," Kruppe said. Ukeru is touted as "a trauma-informed approach" with tools that don't require teachers to resort to restraining a student. According to Ukeru's website, school districts and behavioral health facilities using the program have reported decreases in staff injuries, the use of restraint and seclusion. The program would cost the district an estimated $12,610, primarily for training, which would cover: Verbal and nonverbal communication techniques to help de-escalate students who may be showing aggression. Physical redirection techniques to minimize injury and harm. What the organization claims is a technique to block aggressive students without using restraint. Freel's son, Bennett Solomond, attended the Edison School in 2018 and 2019. There, Bennett said he experienced trauma over being restrained and secluded, without adequate intervention to get to the root causes of his behavioral issues. In 2019, Bennett's parents moved him to a suburb of Pittsburgh, in an effort to escape Michigan schools, and specifically restraint and seclusion. There, Bennett has flourished and is about to enter his senior year of high school, she said, at a traditional high school where he's taking honors and Advanced Placement courses in preparation for college. Melissa Freel, left, gets a hug from her son Bennett Solomond in their Pittsbugh living room on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022. She said hearing that Hazel Park is trying to change makes her "ecstatic." "I really think they need to have strong parent representation on a planning committee and really be prepared to dig deep into their current practices," she said. Monday's meeting was a special board workshop. The board will likely decide whether to use Ukeru and further consider the plan to reduce restraint and seclusion in a meeting later this month. Contact Lily Altavena: laltavena@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Hazel Park Schools acknowledges rise in seclusion, restraint in schools NEW YORK The presidents of America's four historically Black medical schools were invited to meet last week with Bloomberg Philanthropies in New York. They thought it would be a chance to celebrate a $100 million gift the foundation made to the schools in 2020 to help relieve their students' debt. Instead, they learned the foundation of entrepreneur and former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg planned to make a new gift that left the presidents speechless. On Tuesday, Bloomberg formally unveiled that his philanthropic organization would donate $600 million to four historically Black medical schools: $175 million each to Howard University College of Medicine, in Washington, D.C.; Morehouse School of Medicine, in Atlanta; and Meharry Medical College, in Nashville; and another $75 million to Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, in Los Angeles. He announced the "history-making gift" in New York at the annual conference of the National Medical Association, an organization that has represented Black doctors since 1895. "Im excited for what this history-making gift will mean for Black physicians, Black medical school students and faculty and communities across the United States, Dr. Yolanda Lawson, president of the National Medical Association, said in a statement. This investment will directly improve the pipeline for Black physicians and help to close the health care disparity gap. Meharry Medical College in Nashville is one of the few historically Black medical schools in the United States. The gift is part of Bloomberg Philanthropies' Greenwood Initiative, a program aimed at building wealth among Black Americans and redressing historic underfunding in Black communities. Along with the four medical schools, Bloomberg is donating $5 million to establish the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, in New Orleans. The new medical school is a partnership between the Xavier University School of Louisiana, a historically Black university renowned for producing graduates who go on to medical school, and Ochsner Health, a nonprofit in the region. "We have much more to do to build a country where every person, regardless of race, has equal access to quality health care and where students from all backgrounds can pursue their dreams," the former New York mayor, said in a statement. The $100 million 2020 donation was also made through the Greenwood Initiative. That gift was tailored to ease the student debt of 1,000 current Black medical students. At the time, the $34 million gift was the largest single donation Meharry had ever received. "We believed that lessening the debt load would give students more agency and choice in where they practice and what they choose to specialize in," said Garnesha Ezediaro, who leads the Greenwood Initiative. Bloomberg Philanthropies determined that 75% of the medical students who received the debt relief went on to practice in underserved communities. Donations to the four historically Black medical schools also increased. In 2019, the year before the Bloomberg gift, the four schools received $29 million in donations. In 2021, the number jumped to $185 million. With this $600 million gift, Bloomberg Philanthropies wants to strengthen these institutions that, despite decades of underfunding, still graduate nearly half of all Black doctors, officials said. Michael Bloomberg, a U.S. entrepreneur and former New York City mayor, donated $600 million to four historically Black medical schools in August 2024. Just 5.7% of U.S. doctors are Black. "We were all stunned by the size of that number," said Dr. James E.K. Hildreth, president of Meharry. The donation of $175 million nearly doubles the endowment at Meharry, an institution founded in 1876. Research shows that Black patients receive better medical care when treated by Black doctors. Yet less than 6% of doctors in the United States are Black. "Endowments are important" because they allow you to weather financial storms, Hildreth said. "They also allow you to use the earnings to invest in your students and your programs. It means a generational impact, because students that come to Meharry 10 years from now, 20 years from now, will benefit from this gift." Yolanda Lawson, president of the National Medical Association, an organization representing Black physicians, said Bloomberg Philanthropies' $600 million donation can improve the pipeline for Black doctors in the U.S. Free tuition for underrepresented students In recent years, several medical schools have moved to offer free tuition to students. The change is intended to help lower-income students and students of color who aren't often represented in the medical field. Just 5.7% of doctors are Black in the U.S. Latinos make up 6.9% of physicians, and Native American and Native Hawaiian people comprise just 0.4% of doctors, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. In July, Bloomberg Philanthropies donated $1 billion to Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine aimed at offering free tuition to most medical school students. Albert Einstein College of Medicine, in New York, also made the medical school free in perpetuity thanks to a donation from Dr. Ruth L. Gottesman, the chair of the colleges board of trustees, announced in March. Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine also made schooling partially free in 2019. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bloomberg Philanthropies gives HBCU medical schools major donation Amid growing research pointing to widespread health impacts associated with loneliness, a new global survey shows around a quarter of all people feel lonely. Michael Matthey/dpa Almost a quarter of the worlds people feel lonely, according to US survey organization Gallup, whose pollsters warned of "serious physical and mental effects" as a result. In Gallups first global survey on this subject 23% of participants said they felt lonely "a lot of the day yesterday" and were in turn 36 percentage points more likely to "experience sadness" than others and 20 points more likely to feel angry. Lonely people were 26 percentage points more likely to report being angry or be suffering from physical pain than others and were 31 and 30 points more likely to be worried and feel stressed. Levels of loneliness varied across countries and age groups, with the over-50s more likely in general to report such feelings, but much less likely in China and the US, where younger adults appear to be lonelier than their elders. The worlds least lonely people are in Estonia, Vietnam, Kosovo and Kazakhstan, where only 1 in 10 reported feeling that way, with Iceland, Poland, Slovenia and Taiwan next best at 11%. The findings come despite decades of technological advances, such as social media, which can help people to stay in touch with each other to a degree arguably unprecedented in human history. However there have been indications that phone addiction and endless scrolling through messages and apps are contributing to unhappiness and mental health issues. In 2023, US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy flagged "increasing concerns" that social media was harming young users. The same year, Murthy warned of a wider "loneliness epidemic" in the US that was putting people at greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety and premature death. In late 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) listed loneliness as a health concern. Demographic and social changes in wealthy countries have, according to some studies, contributed to loneliness, with family sizes shrinking and older people increasingly likely to be put in care or nursing homes rather than be looked after in their dotage by family. Harvard University doctors last month published research showing over-50s who "experienced chronic loneliness" were 56% more likely to get a stroke than other people of similar age. Robot "companions" for lonely old people have been rolled out in countries such as Japan, South Korea and the US. Last year the journal Science Robotics published a paper suggesting artificial intelligence bots could be added to such robots to enable them to 'chat' to their isolated owners. Around the same time, however, a survey of workers in four countries found that those who used AI while on the job were more likely than others to be lonely and to have trouble sleeping. How to help Lake County deputies families following deadly ambush The community is honoring the Lake County deputies and their families who were affected by a shootout at an Eustis home late Friday. Lake County Master Deputy Bradley Link was killed in the line of duty. Deputy Stefano Gargano and Deputy Harold Howell were each shot and hospitalized following the ambush. Gargano was shot multiple times in the abdomen and groin. Meanwhile, Howell was shot in the arm. As of Tuesday, both were in stable condition following surgeries, according to the Lake County Sheriffs Office. Read: Lake County Sheriffs Office provides updates on injured deputies As the Lake County Sheriffs office mourns the death of Deputy Link, they are also planning his Celebration of Life ceremony. It will be held on Saturday, August 10th, at 11 a.m. at Real Life Christian Church, 1501 Steves Road in Clermont. The service will be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person. Read: Memorial service planned for Lake County deputy killed in the line of duty Meanwhile, the Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association says law enforcement across the state is now rallying to support all three deputies families. In the days since the ambush, the Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association has started a campaign selling Lake County Strong T-shirts. President of the Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association, Billy Woods, hopes to provide Deputy Links widow with enough funds to cover his salary for a year. Read: Woman charged in ambush attack on Lake County deputies makes first court appearance Meanwhile, the association is putting Deputy Howell and Garganos families in nearby hotels as they continue their long recovery in the hospital. When someone gets shot, its not like youre up and walking within five minutes of being shot, said Woods. Theres a lot of recovery because your body takes a lot of damage. And these families need to be stress-free during this time, said Woods. So far, the Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association says theyve sold 3,000 T-shirts. Its horrific: Lake County deputies mourn the death of one of their own All of the proceeds will support the deputies families. There are several fundraisers set up to support the deputies loved ones. See them below: For Bradley Link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-bradley-link-support-his-loved-ones For Stefano Gargano: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-stefano-heal-after-tragic-onduty-injury For Harold Howell: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-deputy-harold-howells-recovery A Florida Deputy Sheriff Association T-shirt fundraiser for all three families: https://gwymerch.com/.../lake-county-strong-fdsa-lend-a-hand Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association Lend a hand program: https://my.flsheriffs.org/Donate/Lend-A-Hand The Lake County Sheriffs Charities is also supporting families during their time of need. See it here: https://www.sheriffscharities.com/ WATCH: Procession held for Lake County deputy killed in the line of duty Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Big Lots, the retailer where you can find everything from furniture and home decor to groceries and school supplies, all at steep discounts, is closing hundreds of stores, including at least three in Kentucky. Mass Live first reported Friday the retail chain is closing at least 289 of its locations across 36 states. That amounts to more than 20% of its stores nationwide, which total 1,389. Its not clear how many employees will lose their jobs as a result of the closures. At least three Kentucky stores, including one in Lexington, are closing, according to Mass Live. A banner on Big Lots website confirms the Lexington location in Hamburg is among the closures. An employee at the store confirmed the closure Tuesday and said products are already being marked down for a 20% off sale advertised online. A screenshot of Big Lots website shows that the stores Lexington location in Hamburg will soon close. The store associate was unable to confirm what date the store will officially close for business. Lexingtons second Big Lots location on Lane Allen Road is not among the closures. According to Mass Live, the other two Kentucky Big Lots locations set to close are in Louisville and Henderson. Lexington restaurant closes after 44 years at high-profile location. See historic photos The news comes after Big Lots previously announced it was closing a smaller number of stores, but like Bed Bath & Beyond and buybuy Baby, which filed for bankruptcy and closed Lexington stores in 2023, its struggling to stay afloat as consumers tighten their belts. Do you have a question about business in Kentucky for our service journalism team? Send us an email at ask@herald-leader.com or fill out our Know Your Kentucky form. (From: Henderson County) (From: Henderson County) (From: Henderson County) (From: Henderson County) (From: Henderson County) HENDERSON COUNTY, N.C. (WSPA) A technical rescue team from Henderson County is headed to eastern North Carolina to assist with potential flooding due to Tropical Storm Debby. Officials said 18 members of the Henderson County Technical Rescue Team, including the swift water team, is headed to Bladen County. Two boat teams are part of the contingent headed to eastern North Carolina. Those teams will help with any evacuations, check houses, and move resources where they are needed. Debby is a slow moving tropical storm which is expected to drop upwards of 12 to 16 of rain over parts of eastern North Carolina. Henderson County officials said the technical rescue team consists of members from various departments in the county, including Blue Ridge Fire and Rescue, Henderson County Emergency Management, Henderson County Rescue Squad, Henderson County EMS, Hendersonville Fire Department, Mountain Home Fire & Rescue, and Valley Hill Fire & Rescue. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. Here's what to know about Holy Family Memorial Hospital's birthday celebration Holy Family Medical Center as seen, Wednesday, April 1, 2020, in Manitowoc, Wis.. MANITOWOC Back in the 1890s, Manitowoc was a busy maritime and harbor town with no hospital for the sick or injured. Local pastors and community leaders approached the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity about helping to raise funds and community enthusiasm for a new hospital. Holy Family Hospital (now Froedtert Holy Family Memorial Hospital) opened its doors on Sept. 28, 1899. Sign up for local business news with our new Manitowoc Streetwise newsletter The public is invited to a special celebration and look back at Holy Familys 125 years caring for the community. The event set for 4-6 p.m. Aug. 8 at the hospitals atrium, 2300 Western Ave. will be co-hosted by The Chamber of Manitowoc County. The event will feature historical displays, live music, and a recognition ceremony for staff and volunteers who are celebrating milestone anniversaries. Holy Family was considered modern when it was built, with 75 beds and an elevator. The hospital was also a station of the U.S. Marine Hospital Service, welcoming seamen from the area. More business news: The latest on 5 Manitowoc business stories we told you about in July, including Ross Dress for Less and a new hotel Holy Family Hospital merged with Manitowoc County Memorial Hospital in 1991 and became Holy Family Memorial. HFM completed an affiliation agreement with Froedert and The Medical College of Wisconsin in March 2021. Today, the hospital offers inpatient and outpatient services, including walk-in care, clinics, a pharmacy and a rehabilitation facility, according to its website. Those interested in attending the Aug. 8 event can visit Holy Family 125th Celebration to RSVP. For more information, contact Patti Glaser at 920-371-1239 or Patti.Glaser@froedtert.com. A.C.E. breaks ground on project: Manitowoc's A.C.E. Building Service breaks ground on HTT, Inc., expansion Got a tip, question or comment for Streetwise Manitowoc? Contact reporter Patti Zarling at pzarling@gannett.com or call 920-606-2575. Follow her on X @PGPattiZarling and in Instagram @PGPatti. This article originally appeared on Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter: Manitowoc hospital HFM marks 125 years with community celebration Here's your ultimate voter guide to 2024 elections, candidates, issues in Brevard County Brevard County voters will have lots to consider for the Aug. 20 primary and the Nov. 5 general election. That includes races for one Florida Senate seat and five Florida House seats; three countywide elections; three Brevard County Commission elections; two Brevard School Board races; three judicial races; and various municipal candidate elections and referendum items. Some incumbents cannot run for reelection because of term limits, so they are seeking other elected positions. Check out the stories below to read about candidates and races, and to learn everything you need to know about casting your ballot. This election and candidate guide will be updated regularly with addition stories as they are published. Primary colors: Total early voting number for Brevard County was 20,442 (with 9 provisionals). OVERVIEW OF ELECTIONS Candidates enter races early: Here's why Brevard candidates for 2024 election have already entered their races Key races on ballot: 2024 Elections: Brevard is having a big election year. Here are the races to watch. Some elections go uncontested: Countywide, multicounty races, two Port Authority seats decided without opposition Controversial MAGA mailing: 'MAGA' campaign mailer faces backlash with claims it misleads Primer on Primary Day: Primary Day: What you need to know about voting in Brevard PRIMER ON VOTING Details on primary: Deadline is Monday to register to vote, change party registration for Aug. 20 primary Rule change for voting by mail: State law now requires voters to request vote-by-mail ballot every election cycle What to know about early voting: Early in-person voting for primary elections begins Saturday at 10 sites in Brevard POLITICAL PARTY TRENDS Democrats seeking comeback: Brevard County Democrats hope for resurgence with Harris as presidential nominee GOP straw poll results: Some surprises result from Republican straw poll at event that had record attendance U.S. SENATE Primary results: Rick Scott, Debbie Mucarsel-Powell win, set up Senate showdown U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 8 Incumbent U.S. Rep. Bill Posey opted not to run for reelection this year. Posey decides against running again: Eight-termer Posey won't seek reelection to Congress. Haridopolos among five seeking seat Trump endorses Haridopolos: Haridopolos picks up Trump endorsement in Republican primary for Congress in 8th District Posey discusses decision to retire: Congressman Bill Posey on upcoming retirement: 'I just want to finish strong' Governor weighs in: DeSantis endorses Haridopolos in Republican primary for Congress in Brevard, Indian River In-depth look at three Republicans: Three GOP candidates spar for congressional seat opening with Rep. Posey's retirement In-depth look at two Democrats: Attorney Kennedy, Councilman McDow face off in Democratic congressional primary Babits drops out of race: GOP congressional candidate Babits suspends campaign, endorses Hearton over Haridopolos Primary results: Ex-Senate President Haridopolos, attorney Kennedy win congressional primaries, face off next FLORIDA LEGISLATURE RACE OVERVIEW House candidate qualifying: Who qualified to run as your next representative of Brevard County in the Florida House? FLORIDA SENATE DISTRICT 19 This election is for the seat now held by Debbie Mayfield, who could not run for reelection because of term limits, and instead is running this year for the Florida House District 32 seat. Fine to seek seat in Senate: Rep. Randy Fine announces 2024 run for Florida Senate Sirois decides against Senate run Sirois to run for reelection to Florida House, rather than seek Senate seat Thomas decides against running Tim Thomas says he is not running for State Senate, a day after filing candidate paperwork Trump endorsement for Fine: Randy Fine picks up Trump endorsement after breaking with DeSantis In-depth look at the candidates: Fine and Sheridan draw sharp contrast in State Senate District 19 GOP primary Primary results: Fine wins State Senate District 19 GOP primary in blowout victory FLORIDA HOUSE DISTRICT 31 Incumbent Tyler Sirois is seeking reelection. Sirois seeks reelection in House: Sirois to run for reelection to Florida House, rather than seek Senate seat FLORIDA HOUSE DISTRICT 32 This election is for the seat now held by Thad Altman, who could not run for reelection because of term limits, and instead is running this year for the Brevard County Commission District 5 seat. Weldon seeks return of political office: Former Republican congressman Weldon to run for Florida House seat Mayfield joins House race: State Sen. Mayfield to run against former U.S. Rep. Weldon for open Florida House seat Term limit support: Debbie Mayfield latest politician to pledge support for term limits Republican primary overview: Term limits, insurance converge for Mayfield, Weldon in Florida House District 32 primary Primary results: How Florida House District 32 and 33 seats representing Brevard shaped up in Tuesday's primary FLORIDA HOUSE DISTRICT 33 This election is for the seat now held by Randy Fine, who could not run for reelection because of term limits, and instead is running this year for the Florida Senate District 19 seat. Luse seeks District 33 seat: Second Palm Bay Republican enters race for Florida House District 33 seat Miller joins District 33 race: Monique Miller files to succeed Fine in South Brevard's Florida House District 33 Orriss among candidates: Two more enter race for South Brevard House seat currently held by Randy Fine Langevin enters House race: Palm Bay Republican becomes first candidate to file for Randy Fine's seat in 2024 Florida House race Langevin opts not to run: Republican Chandler Langevin drops out and endorses Monique Miller in House District 33 Democratic candidates emerge: Two more Democrats file for Randy Fine's District 33 Florida House seat in South Brevard Second try for Yantz: Democrat Anthony Yantz of Palm Bay to again run for Florida House District 33 Republican primary overview: Four Republicans seek to fill Randy Fine's District 33 seat in Florida House Democratic primary overview: Anderson, Yantz running in Democratic primary for Florida House District 33 seat Primary results: How Florida House District 32 and 33 seats representing Brevard shaped up in Tuesday's primary BREVARD COUNTY SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS Tim Bobanic, the current supervisor of elections, is running to retain his seat. He was appointed to the seat by Gov. Ron DeSantis after the resignation of former Supervisor of Elections Lori Scott. Term-limited Tobia enters race: County Commissioner Tobia running for Brevard supervisor of elections in 2024 Tobia qualifies vs. incumbent: Term-limited Brevard commissioners seek countywide office; sheriff faces write-in candidate Write-in candidate emerges: Connections between candidates in key Brevard races raise election manipulation concerns Tobia probe completed without charges: No charges filed against County Commissioner Tobia, despite wide-ranging allegations Suit over election paperwork: Brevard elections chief sued over claims of mishandling paperwork, candidates FLORIDA TODAY endorsement: Editorial Board: Here's our endorsement for Brevard County Supervisor of Elections Video interview with Bobanic: Bobanic wins FLORIDA TODAY endorsement for Brevard Supervisor of Elections Republican primary overview: County Commissioner Tobia seek to unseat Bobanic in Brevard supervisor of elections race Valencia places Tobia on leave: Tobia put on leave from teaching job amid claims he used county staff to grade papers Candidate qualifying lawsuit dismissed: Judge dismisses Brevard election lawsuit in last-minute hearing Primary results: Supervisor of Elections Bobanic defeats challenger Tobia, with over 59% of vote BREVARD COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR Incumbent Lisa Cullen is seeking reelection. Pritchett enters race: County Commissioner Rita Pritchett to run against incumbent Lisa Cullen for tax collector Pritchett qualifies vs. incumbent: Term-limited Brevard commissioners seek countywide office; sheriff faces write-in candidate Write-in candidate emerges: Connections between candidates in key Brevard races raise election manipulation concerns GOP primary matchup: County Commissioner Pritchett challenges longtime Brevard Tax Collector Cullen in primary Primary results: Cullen wins primary Tax Collector race against Pritchett BREVARD COUNTY SHERIFF Incumbent Wayne Ivey is seeking reelection against a write-in candidate. Former deputy to run against sheriff: Ex-Brevard deputy who was shot in line of duty to challenge Sheriff Ivey in GOP primary Concerns of Ivey's challenger: Former deputy says Sheriff Ivey treated him poorly after shooting. Now he wants the job Write-in candidate challenges Ivey: Term-limited Brevard commissioners seek countywide office; sheriff faces write-in candidate BREVARD COUNTY COMMISSION OVERVIEW Who qualified for commission race: Term limits lead to lively races for Brevard County Commission as politicians scramble BREVARD COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 1 This election is for the seat now held by Rita Pritchett, who could not run for reelection because of term limits, and instead is running this year for the Brevard County tax collector. Delaney enters race: Conservative former Moms for Liberty member announces run for Brevard County Commission Titusville mayor becomes candidate: Titusville mayor Dan Diesel joins crowded race for Brevard County Commission District 1 seat Jordan among District 1 contenders: Robert Jordan announces District 1 County Commission candidacy for North Brevard Seigler enters race as Republican: Community activist Seigler is first official 2024 candidate for Brevard County Commission Bobbitt is Democratic candidate: KBB's Bryan Bobbitt files to run as Democrat for District 1 County Commission seat Republican primary: Four candidates face off in Republican primary for Brevard County Commission District 1 Primary results: Altman, Delaney and Adkinson win GOP primaries County Commission seats BREVARD COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 3 This election is for the seat now held by John Tobia, who could not run for reelection because of term limits, and instead is running this year for the Brevard County supervisor of elections. Adkinson to seek commission seat: Republican state committeewoman files to run for Brevard County Commission Council member seeks commission seat: West Melbourne Councilman John Dittmore files for County Commission seat Melbourne councilwoman joins race: Democrat and Melbourne councilwoman Yvonne Minus files to run for County Commission District 3 Republican primary overview: Adkinson, Dittmore will face off in District 3 Brevard County Commission GOP primary Primary results: Altman, Delaney and Adkinson win GOP primaries County Commission seats BREVARD COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 5 This election is for the seat now held by Jason Steele, who is not running this year to retain his seat. He was appointed to the seat by Gov. Ron DeSantis after the resignation of former District 5 Commissioner Zonka. Taranto running in District 5: Taranto to run for Brevard County Commission in South Brevard's District 5 in 2024 race Altman seeks County Commission seat: Republicans Thad Altman and Dave Neuman file for 2024 Brevard County Commission race Workman join race: Term limits lead to lively races for Brevard County Commission as politicians scramble Candidate Neuman leaves race: Brevard County commission candidate David Neuman withdraws to run for Melbourne council Republican primary overview: Current, former state legislators face off in GOP primary for County Commission seat Primary results: Altman, Delaney and Adkinson win GOP primaries County Commission seats BREVARD SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 3 Incumbent Jennifer Jenkins is not seeking reelection, after redistricting of Brevard School Board districts put her residence out of her district. Impact of redistricting: Is redistricting a political move? New lines make 2 school board members lose incumbency Yantz enters race: Second candidate files to run for Brevard school board in District 3 Which candidates qualified: Qualifying period ends: These are the candidates for Brevard's School Board Primary overview: Amber Yantz and John Thomas to face off in August for D3 seat on Brevard's school board What candidates said at forum: God, guns and grades: Brevard school board candidates discuss issues pre-August primary FLORIDA TODAY endorsement: Our endorsement for Brevard County school board district 3 Video of candidates at Editorial Board: Editorial board meets with candidates for Brevard School Board Disrict 3 Primary results: Thomas wins District 3 seat on Brevard's school board in 2024 primary election BREVARD SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 4 Incumbent Matt Susin is seeking reelection. Graduating senior seeks seat: 'The youngest I've ever seen': Viera High School student, 18, announces school board run Schachter enters District 4 race 'I want to see our schools succeed': Former teacher files to run for Brevard school board Taylor becomes candidate: Mother of Viera High hazing incident victim files to run for Brevard School Board Which candidates qualified: Qualifying period ends: These are the candidates for Brevard's School Board Primary overview: Four candidates vie for District 4 seat on Brevard's school board: Here's what to know What candidates said at forum: God, guns and grades: Brevard school board candidates discuss issues pre-August primary Public records suit involves Susin: Deposition alleges withholding of public records in lawsuit involving School Board members FLORIDA TODAY endorsement: Our endorsement for Brevard County School Board district 4 Video of candidates at Editorial Board: Editorial Board meets with candidates for Brevard School Board District 4 Primary results: Race for D4 seat on Brevard's school board heads to November runoff between Susin, Taylor JUDICIAL RACES There are three contested judicial elections this year on the primary ballot Circuit Court Group 17, and County Court Groups 6 and 10. None of the incumbents in these races is seeking reelection. Unopposed judicial races: Most Brevard County judicial races already wrapped up What candidates said at forum: Judicial candidate forum offers rare insight into new crop of Brevard judge candidates Primary results: Brevard judge races: Smith-Rodriguez, Skinner win; county race will go to runoff PALM BAY MAYOR Incumbent Mayor Rob Medina is seeking reelection. Four candidates want to be mayor: Palm Bay Mayor Rob Medina faces three challengers in a city facing issue of urban sprawl Primary results: Palm Bay mayor wins another term; two city council races go to November runoff elections PALM BAY CITY COUNCIL SEAT 2 Incumbent Donny Felix is seeking reelection. Three candidates seek Seat 2 position: Incumbent Felix faces two challengers for Palm Bay City Council Seat 2 position Primary results: Palm Bay mayor wins another term; two city council races go to November runoff elections PALM BAY CITY COUNCIL SEAT 3 Incumbent Randy Foster resigned for health reasons. The Palm Bay City Council filled the vacancy with Philip Weinberg, who is not running for the seat in this election. Convicted murderer on ballot: Voting status of Palm Bay candidate convicted of murder is under review, Bobanic says Incumbent Foster resigns: Foster resigns from Palm Bay City Council for health reasons, creating second vacancy Six candidates seek council seat: Past crimes takes center stage in Palm Bay City Council Seat 3 race Council vacancy filled: Palm Bay appoints new City Council member to fill vacant seat, for about three months Primary results: Palm Bay mayor wins another term; two city council races go to November runoff elections TITUSVILLE MAYOR Incumbent Dan Diesel is running for the Brevard County Commission District 1 seat. The three candidates seeking to succeed him are Vickie Conklin, Andrew David Connors and Joe Robinson. Three in running for Titusville mayor: Three candidates compete for Titusville mayoral seat, as incumbent Diesel runs for commission Primary results: Titusville mayor race headed to November runoff election PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY Trump had no active primary opponents: Florida GOP presidential primary goes on, even with Trump clinching, no others in race Seven GOP candidates on ballot: With no competition to Trump, six other candidates remain on Florida GOP primary ballot GOP presidential primary results: Trump wins overwhelming majority in Brevard against six former candidates still on ballot Voter turnout low: Florida election: What to know about low voter turnout in Tuesday's presidential primary FLORIDA AMENDMENT 2 This amendment would add the right to hunt and fish to Floridas Constitution. It would need 60% support for passage. Pros and cons of amendment: Would Florida Amendment 2 ensure fishing and hunting rights, or lead to 'overkill?' FLORIDA AMENDMENT 3 This amendment would legalize the use of marijuana for persons at least age 21. It would need 60% support for passage. Proposals around the country: 5 states including Florida could see recreational marijuana legalized in 2024. Here's where What could the rules be: Recreational vs medical marijuana: If weed is legal, will we need medical marijuana cards? What the measure would do: Recreational marijuana amendment vote coming in 2024. When will weed be legal in Florida? Q&A on proposal: What is Florida Amendment 3? What to know about recreational marijuana in Florida Where marijuana now is legal: Florida may become 25th state where recreational marijuana is legal. Heres where its legal Gov. DeSantis' opposition: DeSantis said Florida will have a 'big problem' with weed smell if marijuana law passes Attorney John Morgan's view: Why does John Morgan want weed to be legal in Florida? What to know about the TV attorney Historic context: Florida marijuana laws: What to know about the state's history of legalization attempts What's next if it passes: If Florida passes a recreational marijuana law in 2024, will weed immediately be legal? FLORIDA AMENDMENT 4 This amendment would allow abortions in the time frame before "viability" of the fetus. It would need 60% support for passage. Details on Supreme Court action: Florida Amendment 4 and abortion referendum. What to know as Supreme Court decision ahead BREVARD TAX ABATEMENT REFERENDUM This referendum deals with Brevard County properly tax breaks for expanding business. Commissioners to consider proposal: Proposal would put extension of Brevard economic development tax break program on ballot Commissioners delay action: County Commission delays vote on having referendum to extend business property tax breaks Proposal to go to Nov. 5 ballot: Voters to decide on extending Brevard County's tax break program for expanding businesses BREVARD LAGOON SALES TAX REFERENDUM This referendum deals with extending Brevard County's half-cent sales tax for projects that benefit the Indian River Lagoon. Brevard County Commission voted against putting this measure on the Nov. 5 ballot, but it could be in the ballot in 2026. Proposal to County Commission: Brevard commission to consider asking voters to renew Indian River Lagoon sales tax Commissioners reject vote in November: Brevard commissioners decide not to send Indian River Lagoon half-cent sales tax to a vote this year citing election timing REPUBLICAN STATE COMMITTEEMAN, COMMITTEEWOMAN On the Aug. 20 primary ballot for Republican voters are contested races for Brevard County Republican state committeeman and state committeewoman. These are internal party positions with a four-year term and no salary. Among their roles, they act as a liaison between the State Executive Committee and the CountyExecutive Committee; elect a congressional district chairman who is entitled to vote on the StateExecutive Board; and serve as at-large members of the County Executive Committee. The position is the equivalent of being a Brevard County delegate the state Republican Committee. There are four candidates for state committeeman: Edward Brankey, Randy Fine, Greg Loyd and Wayne Twiddy. There are six candidates for state committeewoman: Marcie Adkins, Mary Benton, Natalie Brankey, Karen L. Colby, Marie Rogerson and Gloria Rossi. Candidate qualifying lawsuit dismissed: Judge dismisses Brevard election lawsuit in last-minute hearing Primary results: Fine elected Republican state committeeman; Rogerson wins as state committeewoman Dave Berman is business editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Berman at dberman@floridatoday.com, on X at @bydaveberman and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dave.berman.54 This article originally appeared on Florida Today: 2024 voter guide: Here's what's being contested in Brevard County Visitors to Lake Erie were surprised Sunday when someone spotted what appeared to be a 4 to 6 foot-long alligator floating by, considerably farther north than they might be expected. "At first I thought it was fake," said Erie resident Stina Roach, who shot video of it. "But then we saw the tail and body. It was kind of scary. The Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission called in a trapper to catch it, if it exists. Experts believe if the alligator is real, it's probably an exotic pet someone released into the lake. They wouldnt survive a winter here," Scott Mitchell, Erie Zoo Director of Development said. "Thats the unfortunate thing with this alligator if its not captured, it will die. They can handle some colder temperatures. They cant last long unless its a very, very mild winter, theres no chance it can survive a winter here." Florida knows gators Well, we have a little experience with gators here in the Sunshine State. (Also exotic, invasive pets. Don't ask us about wild monkeys, iguanas or lionhead rabbits, please.) The estimated 1.3 million alligators in Florida make their homes in every county we have and just about every body of water larger than a puddle. And you'll want to look hard at those puddles. We've achieved a sort of live-and-let-live policy, for the most part. In the interest of helping out a distant neighbor, let us give you a few tips. Alligators are not that dangerous, until they are Alligator attacks on humans are very rare. They usually avoid humans. When it happens it makes the news, which makes it seem more common, and certainly people have been killed or injured. But the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) says the chances of a Florida resident being seriously injured in an unprovoked alligator attack are one in 3.1 million. Over the past 10 years, the FWC confirmed that Florida has averaged eight unprovoked alligator bites per year that are serious enough to require professional medical treatment. Gators in Florida have been more active lately, showing up in people's yards, homes and even kitchens, but it's mating season here and the weaker males are looking for habitats. Depending on your temperatures up there you probably don't have that problem right now. Keep your pets away from water Alligator attacks on dogs in Florida are much more common, as dogs are much closer to the size of prey gators are used to lying underwater and waiting for. Last year, alligators killed a 40-pound black labrador retriever mix in Tallahassee, an 80-pound Dalmatian in Jacksonville, a 50-pound pit bull on the campus of State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota, and a large bulldog in Port Orange, among others. Several of the attacks on humans came from pet owners trying to rescue their dogs, in fact. In 2021, a 74-year-old Boca Raton woman successfully fought off an alligator that attacked her golden retriever mix. But last year, an 85-year-old Fort Pierce woman was dragged into a golf course retention pond when she tried to pull her dog away from a 10-foot gator. This April a man walking his two dogs was bitten by an 11-footer. Be careful where and when you swim If you've got gators, be aware that they're at their most active between dusk and dawn. Keep an eye out for moving shapes, especially marshy areas near the shore. Closely supervise children and pets in and around water Keep an eye on children when they are playing in or around water, and do not allow pets to swim, exercise or drink or near waters if an alligator is suspected (see above re: pets). The sound of dogs barking and playing may even draw an alligator to the area. Do not feed an alligator or try to take selfies A sign warns visitors from being careless in the water at Tucker Ranch near Winter Garden, Florida, March 12, 2024. When you feed them, alligators can overcome their natural fear of humans and start to associate them with food. If you take photos, do it from a safe distance, at least 30 feet. Do not attempt to get close, touch it or handle it, for what should be obvious reasons but people are going to people. If you see an alligator, run away Alligators are usually afraid of people, rarely bite humans for reasons other than food, and are most dangerous in the water or by the shoreline. But they can move very quickly for short distances on land and they can lunge. If you see one, go the other way. If you see one when you're in the water, get out as quickly and as quietly as you can. Water rushes over an alligator a day after three days of heavy rains in the Everglades on June 14, 2024. "Splashing in the water will attract an alligator's interest, and if it perceives at that point in time that there's something smaller and weaker in the water, it might attack it," said Frank Mazzotti, professor of wildlife ecology and member of the "Croc Docs" at the University of Florida. "Anytime you show up next to water, you're assuming some risk... Don't tempt it." If you're being chased by an alligator, run straight, don't try to zig-zag. That just keeps you from getting farther away. According to retired trapper Gator Bill Robb in 2018, "Raise your hands, look as big as possible, back up, and once youve made yourself look large, if the alligator doesnt retreat, get out as fast as you can in a straight line." Do not try to catch one in a garbage can. The momentary internet fame isn't worth the chance of injury or infection. If you are attacked or bitten, fight back "If an alligator bites you, the best thing to do is fight back," the FWC says, "providing as much noise and resistance as possible. Hitting or kicking the alligator or poking it in its eyes may cause it to release its grip. When alligators seize prey they cannot easily overpower, they will often let go and retreat." You can induce a gator's gag reflex by jamming objects in the back of its mouth, and when it tries to reposition prey in its mouth, that's your chance to escape. "If you should be attacked, fight like your life depends on it because it does," Mazzoti said. If you get bitten by an alligator, get medical attention as soon as possible. Alligator bites can result in serious infection. Good luck with your gator, Lake Erie! We're hoping it can be safely captured and given a new home. Not here, of course. We have plenty. This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Alligators in Lake Erie are rare, but Florida knows how to handle it The head of the pro-Iranian Hezbollah movement Hassan Nasrallah vowed Tuesday to mount an "effective" retaliation against Israel. "Our response is coming and it will be strong and effective," Nasrallah told thousands of his followers via video. The remarks came one week after the assassination of high-ranking Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. Nasrallah said regardless of the consequences, his movement cannot let the assassination go unpunished. He also referenced the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in the Iranian capital Tehran last week. He added that Hezbollah will "respond, but carefully and courageously, and the Israeli wait is part of the response. He said a retaliatory strike could occur together with other groups in the so-called "Axis of Resistance," including those in Iraq and Yemen. Iran's leadership has also vowed to exact vengeance. "The goal of the fight is to prevent Israel from winning," Nasrallah said. Hezbollah has said it is acting in solidarity with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, and that if the fighting there stops, the movement will lay down its weapons in southern Lebanon. Shortly before Nasrallah started to speak, the sonic booms of Israeli fighter jet over Beirut and its suburbs could be heard, causing panic and fear. The Hezbollah chief accused Israel of chosing to escalate tensions after it hit the commander inside Beirut's southern suburbs, a hotbed for the group, and kill Hanniyeh in Tehran. The Hezbollah chief acknowleged that the killing of Shukr was a great loss for the group. If you've got a high school yearbook you can flick through, you might find that the least attractive people run a slightly higher risk of living a comparatively shorter life, according to a new study. Researchers in the US analyzed the fates of thousands of teenagers who graduated high school in the US in the late 1950s, to take a closer look at how looks might be linked to mortality risk. It's not implausible that features we find attractive might convey information about our state of health. Past research has identified links between our immune systems and ratings of beauty. Yet there is scant evidence on whether people commonly regarded as attractive are any more likely to see a ripe old age. "Little is known about the association between facial attractiveness and longevity," write social scientist Connor Sheehan from Arizona State University and economist Daniel Hamermesh from the University of Texas at Austin in their published paper. "But attractiveness may convey underlying health, and it systematically structures critical social stratification processes." The researchers asked an independent panel of six male and six female judges to rank the attractiveness of 8,386 photographs taken of high school graduates in 1957 as part of the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study. This beauty contest was then used to split the individuals into six different categories, rated from most attractive to least attractive. Using the National Death Index, this was then compared with the deaths that occurred in the group up to 2022, by which time they were in their early 80s. Almost 43 percent of the people in the sample had passed away by the end of the follow-up period. Those in the bottom sextile (or sixth) for attractiveness were some 16.8 percent more likely to have died than those in the middle four sextiles. However, the mortality rate difference between the middle four sextiles and the gorgeous-looking individuals in the top sextile wasn't significant. "Broadly, we found that those whose facial attractiveness was rated in the least attractive sextile had a higher mortality risk throughout life compared to those rated average or high," Sheehan and Hamermesh write. "Importantly, we found little advantage in longevity for those rated with high levels of attractiveness relative to the average." Accounting for factors such as education and earnings reduced the significance of the differences somewhat, with health being the most influential variable. This suggests, as you might expect, that in some cases, being in poor health and not looking great as a result could be playing a role. The data here isn't enough to prove direct cause and effect and is limited in that it focused on one geographical area, and the researchers acknowledge that the reasons for the association are unclear. Nevertheless, it's an interesting set of findings when it comes to looking after public health. Sheehan and Hamermesh are keen to see more research into the deeper connections at work linking health and disease with outward signs we can objectively measure over a lifetime. "Social scientists should explore how attractiveness may influence still other processes that may contribute to its relationship to health and longevity," write the authors. The research has been published in Social Science & Medicine. Related News FILE - Students gather in a common area as they head to classes in Oregon, May 4, 2017. (AP Photo/Don Ryan, File) There are small signs of improvement in the mental health of U.S. teenagers, a government survey released Tuesday said, but the share of students particularly girls feeling sad and hopeless remained high. From 2021 to 2023, the portion of high school students who reported feelings of persistent sadness or hopelessness declined from 42% to 40%, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report. More than 20,000 students were surveyed at school in the spring of 2023. Among girls, the percentage reporting persistent sadness or hopelessness fell from 57% to 53%. The share of girls reporting they had seriously considered attempting suicide edged downward from 30% to 27%. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many school activities, increased isolation among youth and may have contributed to the 2021 findings on mental health. But long-term trends also reflect a worsening of mental health among teenagers, particularly girls. ___ EDITORS NOTE: This story includes discussions of mental health. If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to the national suicide and crisis lifeline at 988, or the National Alliance on Mental Illness by calling 1-800-950-6264 or texting NAMI to 741741. ___ Social medias emphasis on appearance and body image contributes to the pressures on girls' mental health, said Dr. Anisha Abraham of Childrens National Hospital in Washington, D.C., and a spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics. In 2023, 77% of students said they used social media several times a day, with girls more likely than boys to use social media that often. Sixteen percent of high school students said they'd been electronically bullied during the past year through texting, Instagram, Facebook or other social media. Girls and LGBTQ+ students were more likely to report electronic bullying. Open conversations at home with caregivers and parents are really important, Abraham said. Parents who notice teens feeling hopeless or pulling away from normal activities should take those signals seriously and make sure they get in for counseling or further screening. ___ The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content. LONDON Several high-street retailers have fallen victim to far-right, anti-immigrant protests and widespread looting, which have been spreading across Britain over the past week. The nationwide unrest began last week in Southport, Lancashire, after the fatal stabbings of three girls attending a dance class. It escalated following misinformation on social media about the identity of the perpetrator. More from WWD The worst outbreaks of violence have been in Belfast, Plymouth and Birmingham. Nearly 400 people have been arrested. On Tuesday morning, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the government would take all necessary action to bring the ongoing riots to an end. We need to be calling it out for what it is. It is not protest. It is violent disorder and needs to be treated as such. The riots have been affecting retailers, too. A Lush store in Hull, a port city on the northeast coast, was ransacked on Saturday. In a video trending on X, formerly known as Twitter, the Lush store can be seen being raided by teenagers and adults, and the windows of a nearby store were smashed. In another post, a picture showed two women, presumably in their mid-20s, laughing outside the store, one with a basket full of Lush cosmetic products and the other holding several pairs of Crocs. Police officers face protesters in Liverpool, following the stabbing attacks on Monday in Southport, in which three young children were killed. Kasey Swithenbank, head of retail at Lush in the U.K. and Ireland, told WWD that the Hull location closed early on Saturday after reports of rising tensions locally. We had about 70 percent of our stock either stolen or smashed against the walls, technology broken and taken, and damage to the building itself. Thankfully, nobody was hurt and what were seeing now is the Hull community coming together in support. Were just thankful to everybody so far who has reached out with their support and very kind offers of help, she added. Swithenbank said the police arrived on Saturday evening, dispersed the crowds, cordoned off the area, and patrolled throughout the night. After cleaning up the next morning, the store was able to fully restock within 24 hours with help from the Lush team from Poole. Following the widespread chaos, she hopes that the streets across the U.K. can return to peace again. The violence and intimidation that people of color are experiencing affects the whole of our society. People are terrified to go out at the moment, so all retailers are expecting a drop in footfall. We need the rioters quickly dealt with by the police and judicial system, but beyond that, we need all political parties and the media to change the discourse around race, religion, and immigration in order for all the citizens of our country to feel safe, protected and valued, she said. In a bigger picture, Swithenbank said Lush has been concerned about the hostile rhetoric used around the subject of immigration. We have run public campaigns on this issue and have also raised our concerns whenever we have met with Members of Parliament. The valuable role that migrants play in this country is essential, including in our own business. Lush as a brand stands against these riots, she added. High-street fixtures such as Greggs bakery; Iceland, the frozen food store; Sainsburys supermarket; Shoezone, and optical store Specsavers, fell victim as well. Riot police clash with anti-immigration protesters outside of the Holiday Inn Express in Manvers, which is being used as a hotel for asylum seekers, on Aug. 4, 2024 in Rotherham, England. Helen Dickinson, chief executive officer of British Retail Consortium, which represents more than 200 major players and thousands of smaller, independent retailers in the country, said many retail workers have been heading to work fearing their stores, and their safety, could be compromised by the looting and vandalism. She said some are already seeing the impact, as they spend their day cleaning up the damage caused by these selfish and criminal acts. Teams of retail colleagues across the industry work tirelessly, side by side to serve customers day in and day out, performing a vital role across all local communities. This is only possible if colleagues and customers can safely visit their local stores. Riot police face protesters in Bristol, southern England, on Aug. 3, 2024 during the Enough Is Enough demonstration held in reaction to the fatal stabbings in Southport on July 29. Dickinson emphasized that the full force of the law should be brought to bear on those individuals who are committing criminal damage and theft against retailers and their communities. At the BRC, were taking steps to support our members, providing a forum for retailers to discuss how to keep teams safe, protect businesses and communicate with customers. Were also engaging with the police in order to provide information and advice to retailers, she said. Anti-racism activists gather at Guildhall Square to face off far-right protesters after they announce a protest in Plymouth, U.K. on Aug. 5, 2024. Best of WWD Hillary Clinton condemned former President Donald Trumps latest praise of Russian President Vladimir Putin in a blistering post on X, formerly Twitter. Trump, the Republican 2024 presidential candidate, at the weekend claimed Putin had pulled off another great deal with the historic prisoner swap between the U.S., Russia and other countries that saw Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich among those brought home. By the way, I would like to congratulate Vladimir Putin for having made yet another great deal. Did you see the deal we made? Trump asked supporters at a rally in Atlanta. Trump previously boasted that Putin wouldnt release Gershkovich for anyone else but him. Clinton, the former secretary of state and Democratic 2016 candidate, was incensed by Trumps newest commendation of Russias authoritarian leader. Even by Trump standards, siding with a murderous dictator who took Americans hostage is traitorous and pathetic, she wrote. You do not, in fact, have to hand it to Putin, Clinton added. Despite Trumps characterization of the swap, it has been hailed as a win for President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who has replaced Biden at the top of the Democratic ticket for Novembers election. Even by Trump standards, siding with a murderous dictator who took Americans hostage is traitorous and pathetic. You do not, in fact, have to hand it to Putin.https://t.co/mWAQ1aaMV8pic.twitter.com/LOoiXQyaA7 Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) August 5, 2024 Related... (Bloomberg) -- Walt Disney Co. is raising the prices of its streaming services, with the lowest-cost offering, Disney+ with advertising, climbing 25% to $9.99 a month. Most Read from Bloomberg Disney+ without ads will increase 14% to $15.99, according to an announcement Tuesday. A bundle that includes Disney+ and Hulu, both with ads, rises 10% to $10.99 a month. The increases take effect Oct. 17. Hulu and ESPN+ will also raise prices. The shares rose as much as 4.7% to $91.91 in afternoon trading in New York. As part of the change, the company is adding programming choices to Disney+, including channels that stream continuously. Starting Sept. 4, Disney+ subscribers will be able to watch ABC News Live and a playlist of preschool programming. Later this year, premium subscribers will get channels devoted to documentaries, action films and pop culture. In recent months, rival online video services including Netflix Inc., Comcast Corp.s Peacock and Warner Bros Discovery Inc.s Max have also announced plans to raise prices. Disney increased its streaming prices by as much as 27% a year ago. Disney, like other traditional media giants, is transitioning to streaming from broadcast and cable TV, where audiences are shrinking and ad sales are declining. The company has vowed its streaming business will be profitable by its fourth fiscal quarter. Management is scheduled to report third-quarter financial results on Wednesday. (Updates with shares in third paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. HINDS COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) The Hinds County Board of Supervisors approved voting precinct changes on Monday. Precinct 43 will return to its original location at Fresh Start Christian Church in Jackson. Due to ongoing renovations, those who vote at Powell Middle School will go to Brinkley Middle School. Tax reforms in spotlight at 2024 Neshoba County Fair As the county prepares for the upcoming election in November, it has a limited amount of time to make any more voting precinct changes. We had one precinct moved because it no longer wanted to be a precinct, and then we had another precinct moved because it wanted to be a precinct again. Thats something thats constantly changing. Its always a moving target. People for various reasons, churches closing, school closings, just a lot of different reasons as to why we change our voting precincts, said Supervisor Robert Graham, District 1. Election officials hope no further changes will be made ahead of the November election. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. Historic home connected to Charlotte church demolished despite preservation efforts CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) The ministers home connected with the old Steele Creek Presbyterian Church has been torn down, despite preservation efforts that have been going on at the property for years. The home, near the corner of Douglas Drive and Steele Creek Road, served as the home, or manse, for the church for years. The property, now owned by the Charlotte Douglas International Airport, is located just south of the airport in an area that has become more desolate in the last several years due to increased air traffic and related noise in the area. The church congregation has a rich history in the Charlotte area, connected to the late Reverend Billy Graham and his family. Demolition of the home started Friday. We heard a bunch of demo noise, and I looked out and they had already taken apart the front porch, said Ernie Smith, who lives near the home. Queen City News previously reported on the efforts by the Charlotte-Douglas International Airport to buy up property near the airport to help mitigate noise concerns and spur further developments, along with the efforts to maintain the history that is there. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission said the home was eligible to be made historic, but claimed there was red tape. City Council never had the chance to vote on it before it was lost, which is actually a first in my experience, said commission chair Brian Clarke. Clarke said there had been an effort to keep the home for more than two decades. Clarke said CLT objected to a historic designation for the home, which helped set the stage for the demolition process. The direction was, the airport does not want it designated, thats it, said Clarke. MORE: What would you do with a church from the 1700s? The City of Charlotte wants to know In a statement to Queen City News, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport said, in part A demolition permit for the Manse (specifically identified, and not historically designated in the Memorandum of Agreement [with the city of Charlotte]) was submitted in October 2023. After the submittal of the MOA-directed demolition permit, the HLC surveyed the Manse property and recommended local historical designation during HLCs December 2023 meeting. CLT was not included in the HLC discussion and learned of this HLC recommendation after the meeting. This recommendation was not consistent with SHPO, FAA, and City agreements, and CLT has previously paid mitigation for these structures to the State. The former Manse structure was not designated a historic property and has been demolished in accordance with the recently issued demolition permit. The statement continues, In short, the Airport has followed all federal, state and local regulations and best practices in the sale and action of each property. Additionally, CLT has remained transparent and collaborative with community organizations such as the Historic Landmarks Commission and neighbors. Preservation groups said this is another example of Charlottes price of progress, which they believe is coming at a bigger cost than people realize. Its just a shame, and in Charlotte, weve lost a lot of our built history. Some of that is certainly inevitable, and there are some places that value their material history, said Clarke. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. Historic rain from Debby tapers off, but flooding displaces many in Sarasota, Manatee Rainfall from Hurricane Debby continued to impact local rivers and creeks, with both the Myakka and Manatee rivers above flood stage, and residents in communities from Parrish to portions of Lakewood Ranch in East Manatee County to Pinecraft in Sarasota County's Phillippi Creek watershed anxiously waiting for the water to recede. Tony Hurt, a forecaster with the National Weather Service in Ruskin, said a few rain bands from Debby, now a tropical storm again, were still pushing across the area, though, he added, the rain bands are pretty sparse today. After that, the weather pattern is expected to settle into a more typical summer pattern, with showers and thunderstorms early in the day, with the usual August rainfall totals. Still the amount of rainfall Sarasota-Manatee received from Debby is equivalent to the volume generated by a 50- to 100-year storm NWS Forecaster Keily Delerme said Tuesday afternoon. Because of the current flooding status even typical August rainfall totals could still exacerbate problems in vulnerable river basins. Manatee River crested two feet above major flood stage during Tropical Storm Debby The Manatee River crested at 19.16 feet more than two feet above major flood stage Monday evening, with the water levels already receding, though the weather service reissued a flood warning Tuesday morning for the river at Rye Bridge, in addition to the one at Myakka Head near State Road 64. It is anticipated to drop below 9.5 feet, the action level, by 5 p.m. Friday. Manatee County has reported more than 55 water rescue operations to relocate 210 individuals and two horses. Members of Florida Task Force 6 from Ft. Myers go door to door checking on residents in the neighborhood around S. Conrad Ave. and Phillippi Creek on Monday afternoon in Sarasota following Tropical Storm Debby. The storm produced so much rain that authorities said they were forced to release water from Lake Manatee to avert safety concerns, even after water levels had been lowered to about 36 feet in advance of Debby's impact. Nearby residents say the water release has flooded their homes, barns and that of their neighbors. This is a 100-year flood that we've had during this storm. Our dam at Lake Manatee did its job, Manatee County Chairman Mike Rahn said. "It did its job protecting the lake, the levels at the lake, and automatically released into the spillway so that we can maintain safe levels at the lake. Damage reports are being done right now, he added, Our code enforcement is out there looking for damage and doing damage assessments." County officials ask residents to report damage at mymanatee.org/reportdamage or mymanatee.org/storm for other storm related information. Sarasota's Philippi Creek at record levels As of 10 a.m. Tuesday morning, the water level at the Bahia Vista bridge over Phillippi Creek was at more than 10 feet its highest level since 2004 according to the Sarasota County Water Atlas. The water elevation at the Palmer East station near Palmer Boulevard and Debrecen Road was over 25 feet; at Phillippi Creek near the intersection of Bahia Vista and McIntosh Road it was over 16 feet. An airboat carrying evacuees from the Pinecraft neighborhood approaches dry land Monday afternoon Aug. 5, 2024 as multiple law enforcement and rescue agencies conduct evacuations in the area following Tropical Storm Debby. Public Works Director Spencer Anderson said in a Tuesday morning statement the rainfall in Sarasota was historic. Most roadways in northern Sarasota County and near Phillippi Creek are flooded, Anderson said. He urged caution when driving and to avoid standing water until the flood waters have receded. "In the Phillippi Creek basin most of the areas have crested as of last night, so we will see a gradual receding of flood water throughout the day and the next few days, "Anderson said. Emergency Services Management Chief Sandra Tapfumaneyi said in a Tuesday morning statement that the county is cooperating with local municipalities and state partners. County services are assessing damaged and flooded areas, Tapfumaneyi said. She urged residents affected by the storm to fill out the Hurricane Debby Damage Assessment Form. There is a pet-friendly evacuation center open at Suncoast Technical College. Residents in need of help to get there should call 311, Tapfumaneyi said. Rescue personnel assist a Pinecraft resident from a dingy as they conduct high-water evacuations in the Pinecraft neighborhood along Phillippi Creek on Monday afternoon following Tropical Storm Debby. No major damage was reported by the Sarasota County School District. Myakka River levels could bring flooding to North Port The Myakka River, already above flood stage since Monday afternoon, is projected to hit a high of 10.4 feet at Myakka State Park by 5 p.m. Thursday, according to an update from the National Weather Service, with floodwaters potentially impacting State Road, 72 and downstream flooding impacting the city of North Port. North Port public work employees have been manipulating water control structures to offset the potential impact. The maintenance of our waterways has allowed for a good amount of capacity, so we are looking good right now, North Port spokeswoman Madison Ingalls said via email. The river is anticipated to still be at a moderate flood stage through Sunday. North Port is anticipating another 1 to 3 inches of rain locally, with as much as 5 inches in isolated spots. Ingalls noted that a small section of the Tropicaire Boulevard area has some flooding but there are currently no road closures in the city. Elsewhere in south Sarasota County, Anderson said North Casey Key Road did fail and remained closed as does Harbor Drive north of Caspersen Beach. Debris from storm surge washed debris on Manasota Key Road but the road itself is intact. Venice spokeswoman Lorraine Anderson said that both the Venice Municipal Fishing Pier and Humphris Park at the South Jetty were both closed Tuesday morning. The pier reopened Tuesday afternoon after public works crews removed three tons of sand that had piled up at the entrance to the pier near the entrance at Sharkys on the Pier and Fins. Humphris Park lost a lot of material in the parking lot that will need to be trucked in and the asphalt public works crews just laid down to reopen the walkway washed away and must be replaced. Wave action must die down so damage to the South Jetty can be fully assessed. Once the storm surge fully recedes, the city can fully evaluate the impact on the three miles of city beach. This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: After Debby: Some Sarasota, Manatee neighborhoods still under water Historical marker to be placed on local factory site where Cheez-It was born Dayton is now officially designated as the birthplace of Cheez-It crackers. Ohio History has approved a historical marker at the old Green & Green Factory site in Eastmont, where Cheez-It began, in May 1921. This effort began in January 2023, when Todd Hollst, host of the Evening Edge on WHIO radio, contacted Carillon Park CEO Brady Kress, about being the local sponsor of a historical marker for Cheez-It. After doing a great deal of research, Todd completed the official paperwork and submitted it to the staff at Carillon for their review and revisions. >> PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Life-size statue unveiled to commemorate Dayton as birthplace of Cheez-It crackers Dayton History consulted with the city and determined the marker location would be near the Green & Green Factory, but visible on Edwin C. Moses Blvd, near the Eastmost neighborhood. The effort hit a speed bump when Ohio History announced that for 2023, it would only be accepting select submissions. So the submission was made in 2024. Green & Green Factory is located at Concord and Cincinnati Streets. History of the Cheez-It: The Green & Green Company was founded in 1897 and moved to the Edgemont section of the city, where it was incorporated in 1907. After several expansions, it became the largest biscuit bakery in Ohio. Known for their Edgemont crackers, Dayton crackers, Flag crackers, Green & Green Company introduced CHEEZ-IT baked snack crackers on May 31, 1921. A Baked Rarebit, and Youll like Cheez-It, were early slogans used to market their baked snack crackers. Today, there are more than 30 varieties of Cheez-It sold around the world. Green & Green was sold in 1932 to Sunshine Biscuits and remained at this location until 1972. In 1996, Sunshine Biscuits was sold to the Keebler Company, which in turn, was acquired by Kellogg Company of Michigan in 2001. Alabama in 2022 had the fifth-worst voter turnout in the nation. Experts blame a history of voter suppression; a lack of access and a lack of competitive races. (Mario Tama/Getty Images) Elections reflect the will of the people. But in Alabama, there are generally fewer people than normal making those decisions. Alabamas overall voter turnout consistently trails national averages, and is often near the bottom in the South, which generally has the lowest turnout numbers in the nation. Alabama has generally low turnout, fairly consistently, and that has been the case for a long time and that is also typical, I think, of most of the Deep South states, said Richard Fording, a professor of political science at the University of Alabama. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Just over a third of Alabamas voting eligible population cast a ballot during the 2022 midterm races, according to the University of Floridas Election Lab, which tracks voter participation. Nationwide, turnout was 46%. That made Alabama fifth from the bottom in terms of turnout for that election cycle. Only Mississippi, whose voter participation rate was at 33%, posted a worse rate. The Alabama Secretary of States Office says it is focused less on turnout than voter registration. As Secretary of State, administering fair, secure, and transparent elections is a top priority, and I am proud that Alabama leads the nation in election integrity, Secretary of State Wes Allen said in an emailed statement. In Alabama, we have an impressive voter registration rate of 97%. It is my duty to ensure only eligible American citizens who do choose to exercise their right to vote in Alabama elections are participating in fair, secure, and transparent elections. Low turnout can be attributed to several different factors, experts say. Alabama has a long history of denying citizens access to the ballot box. Experts also cite other reasons, including noncompetitive elections that engender apathy among the electorate. Advocates point to restrictive voter laws that hamper peoples ability to participate in elections. The ACLU of Alabama is betting on bettering voter turnout to alter the political climate in the state and usher in reforms. Project MOVE (Making Our Voices Echo) is an initiative aimed at reducing barriers to voter turnout. The ACLU of Alabama, while we have always been involved in voter rights, voter access work, it was important for us to really look at the needs of the community, said JaTaune Bosby Gilchrist, executive director of the ACLU of Alabama. So, we really wanted to build a program that was focused on community building that includes a voting rights effort. Low turnout nation Voter turnout in the United States tends to trail other democracies. It is low relative to much to the rest of the world that votes, said Jacob Neiheisel, a professor of political science at the University of Buffalo whose research focuses on the effects of elite communication on members of the mass public. The Council on Foreign Relations calculated voter turnout for the 2020 national election in a policy brief to be about 62%, below the average of 65% among countries listed in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, a group of mostly high-earning countries. The U.S. Census estimated national turnout for the 2020 election at 67%. The Pew Research Center reported turnout for the 2020 presidential election at about 66%. That pales in comparison to other major industrialized democracies. Belgium, for example, reported turnout during the 2019 parliamentary elections at 78%. That was followed by South Korea at 77% when the country hosted a presidential election in 2022, and Australia had a turnout of 76% for its parliamentary elections in 2022, according to the Council of Foreign Relations report. Both Belgium and Australia have compulsory voting requirements for its citizens. Part of the reason, according to some scholars, can be traced back to the nations founding, when the countrys first leaders envisioned a limited franchise. Some of the views they had, by modern standards, are deplorable, said Michael J. Hanmer, director of the Center for Democracy and Civic Engagement, and professor in the Department of Government and Politics at the University of Maryland. They owned people, and women were treated as not fully equal. There was a real fear of going fully to a system where everybody has a say. Examples of the discriminatory beliefs permeate throughout how they structured the government, according to Hanmer. They didnt like a monarchy, Hanmer said. They knew that was problematic. But they were well-off people, with lots of education and skills, and they were not ready for the general public to weigh in. The idea that the franchise belonged to select groups, such as men, especially those highly educated and wealthy, should have access to the ballot box, reemerged throughout history. We tend to put the burden on the individual, Hanmer said. In a lot of other countries, there is a list of people, when they are of age, the switch is flipped, and they are registered. The way that our country developed, issues of independence and privacy, and all these other things clashed in a different way. For some people, an automatic government list would be really scary in a way that isnt in Sweden. Other reforms related to the ballot box and primaries were also introduced that decreased voter turnout for elections. It is actually a sad part of public administration and political science when you look back to the early 1900s and 1920s when you have political scientists talking about how these things like voter identification are actually a great idea because we want the best people voting, Neiheisel said. You dont want people who dont know anything about politics voting. If they cant navigate these things, how are they expected to know how the system works? Even though the voter participation rate nationally is low, some states have managed to consistently maintain higher rates of voter turnout when compared to peer states, according to figures obtained from the Election Lab at the University of Florida, which tracks voter participation rate historically and publishes the results. In Wisconsin for example, voter turnout was more than 60% for the 2022 midterm election. In Minnesota, it was almost 60%. For Michigan, it was almost 59%. Political scientists largely agree that the regions in the upper Midwest, the northeastern states and those in the Pacific northwest had very different experiences than the states in the South. Many of the states with robust turnout have more forgiving voter laws and policies in place. They have early voting that allows the electorate to cast a ballot for several days before an election, most are less strict with voter identification, and the same states are more lenient when allowing absentee ballots. By contrast, southern states have a long history of Black voter disenfranchisement. The 1890 Mississippi state convention adopted a new constitution that enacted barriers to voting, such as literacy tests and poll taxes. Alabama's 1901 Constitution, framed to deny the vote to Black Alabamians and poor whites, gave white registrars broad powers to deny voting registration to Black voters. Felony voting laws were often employed. And even before the disenfranchising laws, Black voters often risked violence from whites when casting ballots. It was an authoritarian regime of white supremacy where rules were maintained by official state violence, backed by effectively paramilitaries, said Justin Levitt, professor of law at Loyola Marymount University. The paramilitaries were not organized paramilitaries, they were lynch mobs, but very much in place in order to maintain white mob rule at the expense of the nonwhite citizenry, mostly Black but not entirely. And that certainly wasnt confined to voting, but that had its expression in voting rules too. Such efforts also have long-term consequences, Hanmer said. If you are then systematically shut out, and your efforts dont change that, that can spill over to future generations because one of the ways that people become politically engaged is through socialization through the family, he said. Noncompetitive races Alabama's voter participation rate in was roughly 37% in 2022, the fifth lowest in the country, according to the University of Florida's Election Lab. Mississippi had the lowest turnout, at 33%. Like Alabama and Mississippi, the other three states in the bottom five Tennessee, West Virginia, Indiana are all conservative leaning and dominated by Republicans. Relative to other states, Alabama's participation rates have fallen. In 2014, only 33% of Alabamians cast ballots, which was the 12th-lowest in the country. That same year, the turnout rate for Texas, Indiana and Mississippi was about 28%. There are other factors that contribute to low voter participation also, such as noncompetitive races. Battleground status in a presidential election definitely matters, Neiheisel said. If you put that into a statistical model, that usually is a positive indicator for turnout, so having an election in which your vote really matters, that is a big part of this as well. Outside of Alabamas main urban centers, the Republican Party has maintained solid control. The party has a supermajority in the Legislature. It has controlled the governors mansion since 2003 and all statewide elected offices since 2012. Republicans have controlled six of the state's seven U.S. House seats since 2011. With the exception of Democratic U.S. Sen. Doug Jones' term from 2018 to 2021, the GOP has controlled both of Alabama's U.S. Senate seats since 1997. The state Democratic Party can only move so far to the right, he said. It is a matter of branding too. The Democratic Party is branded as so liberal anyway because of national politics. Some argue that gerrymandering is an important factor to consider. We look at the map, and if somebody wants to run in a district, we have to be realistic that this district has historically been 80% Republican in recent elections, said Tabitha Isner, vice chair of the Alabama Democratic Party. How much can we ask a candidate to fight, to do, in a district where a strong candidate with a great organization and great fundraising can swing it by 6-8 points, but they cant swing it by 40? John Wahl, chair of the Alabama Republican Party, denied the state was gerrymandered, and attributed the one-sided election results to non-competitive races for a state that largely conservative. "In the state House and Senate, a lot of the districts are traditional districts on both sides of the aisle on these maps," he said. "There are still competitive districts out there. That was made very clear during the last election cycle where the state party was very engaged in trying to flip half a dozen house districts across the state." Alabama also has more restrictive voting laws compared to other states with higher turnout, including photo voter identification. Kathy Jones, president of the League of Women Voters of Alabama, collaborates with chapters in other states who are now only starting to implement laws the state has already had for years. They are coming down to where we have been as far as the ability for people to make their voices heard, she said. From that, I would say we definitely have more laws that make it more difficult to vote than other states. Absentee obstacles A person on a bicycle dropping off a ballot Chief among her concerns is absentee ballots and the flexibility to cast a ballot without a physical presence at the polling places on Election Day. Jones said the state has some of the most restrictive absentee laws in the country. The state mandates that voters provide a reason to cast an absentee ballot, and the reasons for allowing people to vote by absentee ballot are limited. According to the Secretary of States website, people may apply to vote by absentee ballot only if they have a permanent disability or are incapacitated; if they expect to be away from the polls on Election Day; are living outside the country or are incarcerated and have not been convicted of a disenfranchising felony. They must also obtain a notice from a physician if they need to vote by absentee because of medical reasons. People must first apply to the Secretary of States Office to receive an absentee ballot and, if approved, will be sent an absentee ballot that they must mail back by Election Day. Some states make residents reapply to vote by absentee after a few election cycles. In Alabama, voters must apply for an absentee ballot every election. Alabama also does not allow people to vote early, contrary to neighboring states. The state has also moved to make assistance with absentee ballots much harder. SB 1, sponsored by Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, criminalizes voters for receiving assistance with their absentee ballots and for receiving compensation to assist others with their absentee ballots. Voting rights groups have filed a lawsuit challenging the law. What it is, it is a hardship, Jones said. When you have people who are already having difficulties in their lives, and the laws are set up to where you have to earn your right to vote, what you are doing is making it harder for people who are already having a tough time. Another problem is that Alabama does not communicate with people incarcerated in jail and prisons to inform them that they may be able to vote. State law identifies crimes of moral turpitude that make it illegal for a person to vote who has been convicted of specific crimes. But incarceration itself does not cost people their right to vote. People who are being held while awaiting trial and people who have not been convicted of crimes of moral turpitude may cast ballots. Voting rights groups visit courts and other places to inform people of their right to vote and assist them with getting their voting rights restored, which can be cumbersome, with some requiring a pardon from the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles. This all plays a role in making it difficult for some groups to exercise their right to vote. One measure of this is the Cost of Voting Index, maintained by political science and public administration scholars. The analysis reviews the ease with which voters in each state have access to the ballot box based on policies and laws enacted by administration officials. This includes automatic voter registration, how permissive or restrictive pre-registration laws are, voter ID laws and how convenient it is to vote, such as the hours of polling places and the availability of early voting. Researchers then distill those factors to a single number, and the easier it is to vote in the state. A lower score indicates easier access to the ballot. The cost of voting index for Oregon is -2.51 while Vermont is -2.34. These states also have some of the highest voter participation rates in the nation. The index gives Alabama a score of 1.28, the fifth worst in the country. Mississippi has a cost of voting index that is 1.63, tied for worst. Those figures correlate almost perfectly with the state rankings for worst voter participation rates in the U.S. Federal court decisions have also chilled turnout. In 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court gutted Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act, which required certain jurisdictions with a history of discriminatory voting practices, such as Alabama, to submit proposed changes in voting procedures to the U.S. Department of Justice or a federal district court before it goes into effect. Without Section 5, states are more readily adopting new laws that discriminatory impact on the ability to cast ballots, said Kareem Crayton, vice president of the Brennan Center based in the Washington D.C. office. That includes things like gerrymandering, or voter ID laws, or, as in Georgia, rules that would prevent you from assisting voters to cast ballots. All of those have effects on the ability of people of color to cast ballots. Using voter file data, the Brennen Center published a report in 2023 that indicated that the gap between whites and nonwhites in voting had been closing in Alabama during the time leading up to Shelby County vs. Holder. However, after the decision, the trend reversed. In 2012, the voter turnout gap between whites and non-whites, which includes other minorities such as Hispanic voters in the state, was about 7%. By 2022, that disparity had grown to 13%. A question of impact Mitchell Brown, a professor of political science at Auburn University, said he believes low Alabama turnout rates are less about systematic voter suppression than a lack of investment in election infrastructure. Alabama has made a choice, she said. Is it a choice that makes it as easy as possible for everybody no. But we have limited tax dollars and choices have to be made. Other experts interviewed responded by saying that election laws matter greatly. What you need to think about is the cumulative effect of multiple forms of voter access when they are rolled back and how they limit opportunity for people, Crayton said. It may or may not be the case that any one provision has a particular impact that you think is particularly big. But when you sum up the rollbacks over multiple provisions, that impact gets much larger, but it is also the psychological impact on the voter. Levitt also said it depends on the election. That is true in presidential elections, he said. I think it is less true in midterms, and even less true in off-cycle municipal races where you can see giant gains, particularly from mail in voting, less so from early voting, because they help bring people into the process who may not be accustomed to voting every time. The ACLU of Alabamas Project MOVE aims to reduce barriers to voting and election participation. The plan has three pillars, with the first prong identifying the issues that Alabama residents care about. The plan involves surveying people using phone banks; having a presence at different events and door-knocking efforts. The plan also calls for increasing voter turnout with other programs such as community care services like job fairs and food banks. The group also plans to host mock voting sessions at high schools and visit historically Black colleges and universities. The first several initiatives deal with investigating more fully some of the reasons that voter participation is lower in the state when compared to others. Doing so means getting proximate to Alabamians that aren't voting. Phase one of our project is a community survey, the ACLU of Alabama stated by email. These conversations will help us understand why voter turnout is at such low levels and what barriers, real or falsely perceived, keep registered voters at home. The short-term goal is to increase voter turnout by at least 5% in the next two years, with the eventual long-term milestone of 60%. If we can do that, that will be the real start of something that helps inform how we are engaging folks and are utilizing tools to ensure that people have the access that they need to use their voice at the ballot box, Gilchrist said. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST MARION COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said a Hodges man has died after a wreck Monday evening. ALEA Senior Trooper Cody Farrar said Daniel D. Hicks was killed in a single-vehicle wreck Monday around 5:25 p.m. Sheffield police name suspect in deadly shooting of 16-year-old at party The 63-year-old was driving his car when ALEA said he left the roadway and hit a tree. Hicks was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash was on Alabama 187 near Marion County 184 about three miles south of Hodges. Senior Trooper Farrar said no further information is available in the investigation. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. Holland is getting another car wash: Heres where HOLLAND, Mich. (WOOD) Another car wash is planned for Holland, this one at the Tommys Express headquarters. Crews will break ground on the new location, located at the car wash brands headquarters at 648 S. Point Ridge Dr. near Lincoln Road, Wednesday at 2 p.m., Tommys Express said in a release. The car wash will debut the companys new world model. The model is designed for smaller towns, taking up less land and requiring less staff. Two new car washes could be coming to Grand Rapids This patented site model will be more pre-constructed than our current modular systems, creating opportunities to ship the entire site in one container and reducing the resources required for global construction, Tommys Express said in the release. The headquarters car wash location will also act as a training ground for Tommys Express teams. It is expected to open in 2025. When we built this headquarters, we intended to continue expansion to provide more opportunities for our team members, company President Ryan Essenburg said in the release. Debuting the World Model at our Holland Headquarters allows us to keep developing the next innovation in car washing. Tommys Express celebrated the opening of its headquarters last July. This embedded content is not available in your region. The company currently has four Quality Car Wash locations in Holland, according to its website. Essenburg has previously told News 8 the company is using Holland as a density testing ground. Overall, it has 203 locations open, with 95 coming soon, the website says. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) Holston Habitat for Humanity celebrated the start of construction on a familys new home and kicked off its annual Women Build Event on Tuesday. Leaders and volunteers with the non-profit organization gathered on E Millard St. in Johnson City Tuesday morning to break ground on Matthew and Elizabeths future home. Johnson City BOE approves new cell phone policy, A.I. curriculum use I thought it was all but lost, future homeowner Matthew Price said. I mean, I was born legally blind. My wife and I, we value being able to raise our son in the home. So I didnt want her to have to work extra hard. So we did a lot to try to make ends meet, which meant a lot of sacrifices on both of our parts. So then when this was something presented to us actually by one of our pastors and his wife, we really went for it. People say that it was like winning the lottery, but really, we just know that it was the grace of God. Photo: Holston Habitat for Humanity held a groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday to celebrate the start of construction on Matthew and Elizabeths future Johnson City home. (WJHL) Matthew and Elizabeth have already put their fair share of work into the home. Holston Habitat for Humanity leaders said the couple and their young son have completed more than 175 hours of sweat equity on the project. The value of hard work is something that I wouldnt trade for anything, Price said. To actually have a physical handprint on everything thats taking place thus far, from just filling out the forms in the beginning to now being able to be part of grading this land and painting the walls and putting the roof on and everything that goes into making a house a home. Theres nothing better than that. The project on E Millard St. also marks the start of the non-profits Women Build Event. The event empowers women to volunteer at the construction site. Funds raised during the event directly support covering the costs of the new home. Matthew and Elizabeth described the experience of working with Holston Habitat for Humanity as a dream come true and a sign to never give up hope. The thing we look forward to the most is being able to watch our son grow in a family home, being able to actually have him go outside, Price said. We live in an apartment now, and theres no communal space for us to really be able to take him to outside in like parks and things. So theres something that we get to call our own. The couple hopes to host worship nights and Bible studies at their home when it is completed. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) The Opportunity Center for the Homeless had close to 1,000 participants in their 11 annual HomeRun for the Homeless 5k Run/Fun Walk and Kids Dash. According to the Opportunity Center, the event was a fundraiser for essential funds and awareness of El Pasos homeless situation in partnership with the El Paso Chihuahuas. Opportunity Center for the Homeless HomeRun for the Homeless 5K Run/Fun Walk and Kids Dash. Photo courtesy to Opportunity Center for the Homeless Opportunity Center for the Homeless HomeRun for the Homeless 5K Run/Fun Walk and Kids Dash. Photo courtesy to Opportunity Center for the Homeless Opportunity Center for the Homeless HomeRun for the Homeless 5K Run/Fun Walk and Kids Dash. Photo courtesy to Opportunity Center for the Homeless We are elated by the communitys outpouring of support for our mission, said Ray Tullius, founder and executive director of the Opportunity Center for the Homeless. The success of this event highlights the communitys commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need. Opportunity Center said the funds will also support various homeless programs, such as the Homeless Veterans Transitional Living Center, which provides housing and counseling services, and the Veterans Shelter, which offers temporary housing and support services. For more information on the Opportunity Center and how to support its mission, visit its website here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. Google has illegally exploited its dominance in the search engine market to stifle competition, a judge in the US has ruled. The case has been seen as a potentially seismic moment for Google and the tech sector given its control of search and its related advertising business. Here is a closer look at the case and what it could mean for Google and the wider industry. Google headquarters in Mountain View, Silicon Valley, California (Alamy/PA) What has happened? In 2020, Google was sued by the US Department of Justice, which claimed the tech giant has abused its dominance in online search and advertising to stifle competition and harm consumers. During the case, lawyers argued that Googles monopoly enabled it to charge advertisers artificially high prices while also enjoying the luxury of having more time and money to invest in improving its search engine, an approach which impacted consumers. For its part, Google dismissed these suggestions, arguing that consumers have historically changed search engines when they become dissatisfied with the results highlighting how Yahoo had once dominated search in the 1990s before Google appeared. But ultimately, after several months of reviewing evidence, the judge ruled that Google had breached US antitrust laws in how it operated. What did the judge say? In his decision, US District Judge Amit Mehta said Google was a monopolist that had acted as one to maintain its monopoly. US attorney general Merrick Garland said the victory against Google is an historic win for the American people. Justice Department Statements on the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbias Decision in U.S. v Google : https://t.co/Dj7Xbwz6Yy pic.twitter.com/kzJfWlNWk7 U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) August 5, 2024 No company, no matter how large or influential, is above the law. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously enforce our antitrust laws, he said. The technology giant is widely expected to appeal against the decision, and the process could take it all the way to the US Supreme Court. What does the decision mean for Google and the wider tech sector? This is the biggest question to come out of the case. The decision by the judge sets up another legal phase where it must be decided what changes or penalties should be imposed on Google in order to protect competition. The outcome of that decision could have a huge impact on the tech sector, as the changes could be as drastic as asking the company to dismantle parts of its online empire, or stop it spending huge sums of money each year to ensure Google search is the default search engine on the iPhone and other devices. Story continues Or the judge could decide that only more modest changes are needed to protect competition and consumers, leaving Google relatively unscathed. Any changes imposed would come at a critical time in the sector, as Google battles with Microsoft and others to lead the industry as it enters the age of AI. U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris speaks on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, DC. on July 22, 2024. File Photo by Ting Shen/UPI Aug. 5 (UPI) -- The hospitality workers' union on Monday endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president despite former President Donald Trump's effort to woo restaurant and hotel workers by promising to make their tips tax-free. UNITE HERE has made a commitment of members to knock on more than 3.3 million doors for Harris in swing states that include Pennsylvania, Michigan, Nevada, Arizona and North Carolina. The presumptive Democratic nominee has earned endorsements from United Auto Workers and AFL-CIO, of which the restaurant and hotel workers are members. Teamsters President Sean O'Brien spoke at the Republican National Convention where Trump was nominated but the union hasn't yet endorsed anyone. "Our members cannot afford to go back to Donald Trump's disastrous leadership," UNITE HERE President Gwen Mills said in a news release. "Another Trump presidency would mean four chaotic years of defending against his attacks on unions, working people, immigrants, women and others. "With Kamala Harris as president, workers will continue to move forward, organize their workplaces, and secure good wages and benefits. She has consistently demonstrated her commitment to labor rights and social justice, ensuring that every worker has a fair shot at the American dream. We've seen the blueprint for a second Trump administration in Project 2025, which aims to crush labor unions and hurt working families -- we will not go back. It's up to us to do our part to deliver victory in this race and UNITE HERE is ready to hit the doors." The union represents nearly 275,000 workers in the hotel, gaming, food service, manufacturing, textile, distribution, laundry, transportation and airport industries. The Culinary Workers Union Local 226 in Las Vegas has 60,000 members. In Las Vegas on June 9, Trump proposed excluding tips from federal income taxes. Both of Nevada's Democratic senators, Jacky Rosen and Catherine Cortez Masto, have supported Trump's idea. The union said plans to continue advocating for better wages and working conditions for hospitality workers The Biden administration says tipped workers would be better off with a higher minimum wage. Harris is scheduled to campaign in Las Vegas on Saturday with her still-unnamed running mate 'True miracle': Edgehill fire in San Bernardino is quick and furious, but no residents are hurt A firefighter turns his face from the heat of a fully engulfed home while battling the Edgehill fire Monday in San Bernardino. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times) Hot, dry weather across California continued to fuel fires, with explosive growth again recorded at the Park fire in Butte and Tehama counties. Meanwhile, a smaller fire in the Southland reduced homes to rubble and sent families fleeing for safety. Aidan Milam was at home Monday afternoon in San Bernardino when he and his girlfriend started to smell smoke. They said they knew immediately they needed to get out and fast. As they ran up the driveway, homes on both sides of them were burning, Milam said. He was able to grab the family dog before they hightailed it out of danger. Aidan Milam, 22, removes a burned tool chest Tuesday from the ruins of his home after the Edgehill fire burned it and four other houses in San Bernardino. "This house is more to me in memories than what I lost inside of it," he said. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times) The trio made it out safe, but Milam's home was among the five on West Vista Drive that were completely destroyed in the Edgehill fire, which rapidly blew through the neighborhood before it was doused. Three other homes were damaged, according to the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District. Read more: Neighbors fight flames as Edgehill fire levels homes in San Bernardino "This house is more to me in memories than what I lost inside of it," said Milam, 22, as he stood outside the singed home where he grew up. He had hoped to one day inherit the house. The true miracle coming out of this," said San Bernardino fire spokesperson Eric Sherwin, "was the fact that this fire hit the community so hard and we didnt have a single civilian injury. ... Thats just incredible." He said one firefighter was injured but had since been released from the hospital. Investigators are looking into the start of the fire, which appears to be human-caused, Sherwin said. By Tuesday afternoon, firefighters were able to completely contain the fire, which was limited to 54 acres. The area remained under an excessive heat warning through Tuesday night. The Park fire, now the fourth-largest wildfire in state history, saw a major blowup Monday, with dramatic smoke plumes filling the air near the junction of Highways 32 and 36, not far from the small town of Mineral. That town was already under an evacuation order; additional orders were issued for several communities in Tehama County near the Plumas County line. "The fire is expected to continue to challenge crews until more favorable conditions arrive later in the week," the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection wrote in its latest update Tuesday. Jim Evans, a spokesperson for the Park fire incident, said the fire got into a remote area with exceptionally dry, untouched brush, making it hard to fight, especially in high temperatures. Tuesday morning brought "some of the same conditions we got yesterday," Evans said. "That adds more fuel to the fire." Humidity could drop even lower Tuesday, officials said. Read more: As California salmon population plummets, monster wildfire threatens spawning habitat "We're doing everything we can to keep the acreage down and also to get up the containment, Evans said. "The humidity has been [low] even at night." The Park fire, now about 34% contained, grew to 414,890 acres as of Tuesday evening, up more than 10,000 acres from Monday morning. More than 600 structures have been destroyed, many of them homes, and almost 3,000 remain at risk, according to Cal Fire. "Critically low fuel moisture, steep canyons, long drive times and daily spot fires have caused difficulty in suppressing the fire spread," Cal Fire wrote in its update. "Temperatures will continue to be hot and dry throughout the day." Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. HOT SPRINGS, Ark. Many parents and students around the state are gearing up for the new school year, but about a dozen districts are trying out a new non-traditional calendar. The Hot Springs School District is starting a non-traditional schedule, effectively going year-round. Hot Springs School District considering year-round school calendar There were some mixed emotions about going back to school earlier, but students like Abigail Hedrick and Renee Nduku said they were not too upset about it. I didnt have a huge summer because I was working a lot, but Im excited to be back, Hedrick said. It was kind of difficult because some of my friends that go to other schools, theyre still in their summer, but I just have to look at the future because we get our first break in September and I am super excited, Nduku said. The district still has 178 school days, just like schools on the traditional calendar. They started July 29 and will finish June 6, with a seven-week summer and periodic breaks throughout the year. Arkansas public school students no longer receiving AMI days; how this is impacted by LEARNS Act Superintendent Stephanie Nehus said the goal is to improve academic achievement. The summer slide is real, students who are out and away from schools for two, three months worth, they do lose skills over that time period, Nehus said. Nehus said a survey showed that 70% of their staff wanted to make the change, but a concern from parents was childcare during the breaks. leading to the district extending childcare options and also adding enrichment camps for kids. She said the change has been in the works for a couple of years and theyre happy to see the students a little bit earlier. Arkansas school districts begin making changes in compliance with LEARNS Act Starting school in mid-August is always hot, but starting in July means theyre dealing with the heat for even longer. The district said they prepared by buying large containers they could fill with ice water, so students can always get a cool drink. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.) and former Rep. Peter Roskam (R-Ill.) said young voters can have a huge impact on the 2024 presidential election, but politicians need to convince them its worth the effort amid an overwhelming barrage of news. My sense is that theres a real opportunity for younger voters to have an incredible impact, Roskam said at Gen Zs American Dream: Civic Engagement, an event hosted by The Hill and A Starting Point that aired Tuesday on Hill TV. And I think its incumbent upon the candidates themselves once the shine wears off on a new face of a candidacy. Its the responsibility of a campaign to reach out and to say, heres why what Im talking about matters. The House veterans were speaking on a panel moderated by Hill reporter Mychael Schnell and A Starting Point co-founders Chris Evans and Mark Kassen. Krishnamoorthi and Roskam also discussed driving up youth engagement in politics, the need for decency in national political discourse, and political turbulence while fielding questions from students in the audience. Krishnamoorthi, who knocked on doors in Wisconsin last week for Vice President Harris, said he can feel the enthusiasm among youth voters and predicted this election might see a voter turnout above 70 percent. In 2020, there was 67 percent voter turnout. I think theres going to be a record turnout again, Krishnamoorthi said. It just feels like that kind of election year election again. As you know, 67 percent of registered voters voted in the last election in 2020, which was at the time a record. And this time, we might be pushing towards 70 [percent]. Roskam and Krishnamoorthi also discussed increasing political turbulence given the assassination attempt on former President Trump, President Biden dropping out of the 2024 race, and increasingly vitriolic political discourse. I think it can be overwhelming sometimes, particularly if youve been born within the last 20 years to say, wow, this is Im completely freaking out, Roskam said. Our country has been through a lot of stuff. And are we in a time where theres a lot of political turbulence? Of course we are. Thats self-evident, and its exacerbated by the pace at which were communicating. I think we would be wise to step back and say, OK, we can handle this, and we can we can make a difference here. But to recognize it and to not be intimidated by it, he said. Krishnamoorthi and Roskam added a group of politicians who are more interested in going viral have exacerbated political tensions. Krishnamoorthi also pointed to the media for covering hand grenades, not handshakes. When I came to Washington, D.C., I did, and maybe Peter felt similarly, but I had to very quickly decide, do I want to be effective or do I want to go viral? Krishnamoorthi said. I wish more of my colleagues would pursue that, because if they did, I think wed see a little bit less of that divide, he added. Roskam called on attendees to change how they evaluate politicians. Theres some grifters in Congress because theres an audience for grift, and theyre not evaluated on accomplishment, he said. Theyre evaluated on clicks and likes and all of those sort of social media, imprimatur of approval. And the question becomes, what do we expect of our leaders? And I think that that where you all can make a difference is to change the expectations. Krishnamoorthi also highlighted the importance of building personal bipartisan relations by telling a story about going to the same gym as former Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) and how talking to him about their shared love for the Cubs helped him get a stalled bill on skills-based education passed. So I said, Paul, this is not getting a vote. What the hell is going on? And so he said, OK, were not supposed to talk about this, but Ill look into it. So he did, and he found out what the obstacle was. We corrected the language. It got a vote in the House and in the Senate. It got signed into law. And that all started by going to the gym, he said. If theres one takeaway for me, for you, for all of today, its to form relationships, he said. Identify your common humanity. Start from there and then talk about other stuff. Because if you can do that, then that will withstand the test of partisanship and the other stuff that happens in the atmosphere. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, with his son, Gus, and daughter, Hope, in a photo posted in June 2021. (Governor Tim Walz via Facebook) As governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz has made no secret that his kids have played a big role in helping to shape his policy priorities. Theyve also helped bolster Walzs image as a normal dad. His daughter Hope, 23, has been featured alongside her father in a light-hearted video promoting a statewide ban on the use of handheld cellphones while driving, and a second encouraging residents to go to the Minnesota State Fair. My daughter, Hope, tricked me into doing the most extreme ride at the Minnesota State Fair. pic.twitter.com/YeMEocwJRv Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) September 4, 2023 When his son Gus, 17, passed his drivers license test in October 2023, Walz shared what he called a proud dad moment with a selfie taken with his son behind the wheel. IVF and reproductive health care rights In 2023, Walz signed a bill into law that codified protections for reproductive health care in Minnesota, including abortion and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Reproductive rights are a personal matter for Walz, who has said he and his wife, Gwen, underwent seven years of fertility treatments prior to conceiving Hope. Its not by chance that we named our daughter Hope, Walz told the Minneapolis Star-Tribune about the difficulties he and his wife faced in having children. Last year, after the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that fertilized embryos are human beings, effectively outlawing IVF in the state, Walz blasted the ruling as anti-science. Gwen and I have two beautiful children because of reproductive health care like IVF. This issue is deeply personal to our family and so many others, Walz wrote in a Facebook post. Dont let these guys get away with this by telling you they support IVF when their handpicked judges oppose it. Walz also vowed to build up the battlements around protection as much as I can, and criticized Donald Trumps running mate, JD Vance, who voted against a bill to enshrine protections for IVF. Even if youve never gone through the hell of infertility, someone you know has. When Gwen and I were having trouble getting pregnant, the anxiety and frustration blotted out the sun, he wrote in July in a post on X. JD Vance opposing the miracle of IVF is a direct attack on my family and so many others. Gun control measures Up until 2018, Walz had received enthusiastic backing from gun rights groups like the National Rifle Association. But early that year, when Walz had launched his first campaign for governor, a gunman opened fire with an AR-style semiautomatic rifle at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., killing 17 people and injuring 17 others. Walz came out in favor of banning assault weapons. This is about bringing in responsible gun owners who understand somethings got to be done, he said in an interview with the Star Tribune. On the campaign trail, he also credited Hope with helping him to make that policy switch. Hope woke up like many of you did five weeks ago and said, Dad, youre the only person I know who is in elected office. You need to stop whats happening with this. Ill take my kick in the butt from the NRA. I spent 25 years in the army and I hunt, and I gave [the NRA] the money back, Walz told audiences. Once he was elected governor, Walz went even further, signing legislation to tighten a variety of gun control measures. As a veteran, gun owner, hunter, and dad, I know basic gun safety isnt a threat to the Second Amendment its about keeping our kids safe, Walz in a 2023 statement after signing a law that requires universal background checks for private party transfers of pistols and semiautomatic weapons. Theres no place for weapons of war in our schools, churches, banks, or anywhere else people are just trying to live their lives. Today is about taking meaningful action to create a safer future for our kids, and I am proud to sign this commonsense, life-saving legislation into law. Hands-free driving In 2019, Walz signed a law that seeks to cut down on distracted driving in the state by banning the use of handheld cellphones while driving in the state. Many of the families who have been affected by distracted driving, and who have been tirelessly advocating for this law, are the reason were here today, Walz said of the legislation. Minnesotans deserve safe roads, and this bipartisan bill helps prevent senseless accidents and improves our public safety. To promote the new law, Walz and Hope cut a blooper-style video that has itself become a social media phenomenon. Hey Minnesota! Today the new hands-free law goes into effect. My daughter, Hope, and I put our car in park to give some tips on going hands-free and show just how distracting phones can be.#OneMinnesota #HandsFreeMN pic.twitter.com/MqW4Zqfy5o Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) August 1, 2019 Read more Who is Tim Walz? Kamala Harris names Minnesota governor as VP pick. It reminds me a bit of the first day of school. [Yahoo News] Tim Walz's 2 Kids: All About His Daughter Hope and Son Gus. Walz noted that he and Gwen named their first child Hope to reflect their IVF journey together. [People] How Kamala Harris' VP pick Tim Walz stacks up against JD Vance. On a slew of issues, Walz and Vance are generally aligned with their running mates and distinct from one another. [USA Today] What you should know about Gov. Tim Walz's record in office amid VP speculation. Here's a look at his life and career. [Minneapolis Star Tribune] Reactions to Kamala Harris' pick of Tim Walz for vice president. It's great to have him on the team. Now lets get to work. [Reuters] How Kamala Harris Got To Yes on Tim Walz. If the Upper Midwest is the crossbeam for Democrats Blue Wall, then Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is its new cornerpost. [Time magazine] WASHINGTON (DC News Now) Howard University College of Medicine is one of four historically Black medical schools to receive a historic multi-million dollar endowment from Bloomberg Philanthropies. Bloomberg announced on Tuesday that it would be making a $600 million commitment to the schools one the largest private donations to any historically Black college or university, according to the Associated Press. Howard Universitys medical school, Meharry Medical College and Morehouse School of Medicine are each receiving a gift of $175 million. Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science is receiving $75 million. Bloomberg gives $600 million to four Black medical schools endowments Bloomberg Philanthropies said in a statement The new funding will more than double three of the four medical schools endowments. This is really a truly transformational gift from Michael Bloomberg and his team, said Andrea Hayes Dixon, Dean of the College of Medicine. Its really going to give our students an opportunity to have the freedom to choose the medical specialty they want without a fear of debt. Its not yet clear precisely how the money will be used, but Dixon said itll go towards numerous expenses including student scholarships and for hiring professors that specialize in various areas of training. She also noted the money will go a long way towards increasing the number of Black and brown doctors nationwide, which she said is crucial to addressing inequities in the healthcare system. The diversity in our healthcare system is critical. We know from scientific data if a person has a doctor who looks like them, they actually live longer, said Dixon. The outcomes are better. We can actually save more lives by providing our communities, the underserved communities with more doctors who look like them. The four schools alone graduate about half of all Black doctors in the U.S., but have underfunded endowments due to systemic funding inequities, such as lower federal and state support, according to Bloomberg and the Association of American Medical Colleges. Its very exciting. It definitely has all the students rallying around, wanting to know whats going on, said Jessica Ray, a third-year medical student. Ray has plans to pursue a career as a child adolescent psychiatrist after graduation and work specifically in underserved communities. Representation matters, diversity matters. This country is a melting pot, people from all backgrounds live in this country, she said. They all deserve quality health care and they also deserve to be able to choose a doctor they feel similar to. She believes the money will make a big difference in easing the financial burden of attending Howards medical school. I think Howard, [is] higher on the cost of attendance. And the cost of living in D.C. is triple, double a lot of our hometowns, she explained. So we certainly want to hear some of this money is going to go directly towards student scholarship. Second-year medical student Jetaun Booker agreed. I was really excited when I heard about it. I feel like going through medical school its really an enriching experience but the burden of all the debt is really something thats always on me and my classmates minds, she said. As part of a $100 million gift, Bloomberg Philanthropies made a $32.8 million donation to Howard University College of Medicine in 2022. At the time, that was the largest donation to the College of Medicine in its history. In a release on Tuesday, Howard University President Ben Vinson III, Ph.D. said the following: This is a transformational gift, not only for its impact on cultivating the next generation of health professionals, but for its visionary investment in the intergenerational wealth and health of our medical students and the communities they will serve. Endowment support has traditionally been an area of underinvestment for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, but todays gift is an extraordinary vote of confidence in the lasting benefits of such support. Thank you to Mike Bloomberg and Bloomberg Philanthropies Greenwood Initiative for your inspiring leadership and commitment to addressing the racial wealth gap and decades of underinvestment in Black communities. Ben Vinson III, Ph.D., President, Howard University Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) In honor of National Farmers Market Week, the Downtown Wichita Falls Farmers Market will host a market celebration on Saturday, Aug. 10. Managing Director for the Downtown Wichita Falls Farmers Market, Alisha Hagler, said attendees can check out all the vendors that set up at the market every weekend and enjoy some live music from Spare Time. WFISD pilots new cellphone policy in two middle schools Hagler said showing your support to the vendors who utilize the farmers market is crucial to their survival and has a big local impact. It serves to support small businesses and gives them a hub to do their business. Weve served over 160 small businesses this year, Hagler said. It also helps provide food access for the parts of our community considered a food desert. It also has a huge amount of economic impact and serves as a hub for community connection. To start things off this week, Hagler said Mayor Tim Short will read a proclamation during Tuesday mornings city council meeting. The market celebration will be held at the Downtown Wichita Falls Farmers Market at 713 Ohio Ave. on Saturday, August 10, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com. Human remains inside crocodile believed to be those of tourist on vacation with family MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) Police said Tuesday human remains were found inside a large crocodile suspected of killing a tourist in Australias second fatal attack in about a month. The latest victim was 40-year-old doctor Dave Hogbin who fell from a steep bank Saturday into the Annan River south of Cooktown in Queensland state, his family said in a statement. The general practice doctor from Newcastle in New South Wales had been traveling on a camping vacation through Queensland with his wife Jane Hogbin and their three sons aged 2, 5 and 7 years. Cooktown is more than 2,500 kilometers (1,500 miles) from Newcastle by road. Wildlife rangers on Monday euthanized a 4.9-meter (16-foot) crocodile in a creek 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from where Dave Hogbin disappeared. The crocodile had scars on its snout like those witnesses described seeing on a reptile in the vicinity of the disappearance, officials said. The human remains found inside the crocodile during an examination in Cooktown were believed to be Hogbin, a police statement said. Further testing would be conducted to positively identify the remains. The family statement corrected police reports that Dave Hogbin had been fishing at the time he fell. He had been walking along a riverbank path five meters (16 feet) above the river when part of the bank gave way, according to his family. It caused Dave to fall down into the river below, and despite being tall, strong and fit, the conditions of the terrain meant Dave was unable to get himself out of the water, the statement said. His wife heard the splash when he fell and went to his aid, but due to the steepness and slipperiness of the bank, she was able to grab his arm, but soon began slipping into the river herself. Daves final, decisive act was to let go of Janes arm when he realised she was falling in, despite knowing she was his only lifeline. Within moments, he was taken, the statement added. At least 200 crocodiles crawl into cities as heavy rains hit northern Mexico, near Texas Jane Hogbin said her husbands decision to release her saved her life. He saved me his last act was to not pull me in with him. Im glad Im still here because it could have been a millionfold worse for everyone involved, not just the boys, she said. Family friend Alex Ward said a small consolation was that none of the three children saw the tragedy unfold. Dave Hogbin fell at a location known as Crocodile Bend, which is popular among tourists who come to see large crocodiles. Police Acting Chief Superintendent Shane Holmes told the media on Monday he believed Hogbin fell by accident. The tragedy came after a 12-year-old girl was snatched on July 2 while swimming with her family in a creek in the neighboring Northern Territory. Her remains were found days later and wildlife rangers shot dead a 4.2-meter (14-foot) crocodile. There have been three fatal crocodile attacks in Australia this year, close to the worst annual death toll on record of four in 2014. A 16-year-old boy was killed while swimming off a Queensland island on April 18. The crocodile population has exploded across Australias tropical north since the predators became a protected species in the early 1970s. Hunting for their skins since the 1950s had almost wiped them out. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. (FOX40.COM) The Park Fire has drawn fire personnel from across California and parts of the US and now the California National Guard is answering the call for more support. The California National Guard shared in a recent social media post that they have trained and deployed at least 100 troops to aid in fighting the Park Fire. A video from the California National Guard shows troops undergoing hand crew training with CAL FIRE personnel at Camp Roberts in San Miguel. Along with deploying ground resources to the Park Fire, the California National Guard shared some information about their aerial firefighting missions. Out-of-state firefighters take on Park Fire as it grows to 4th largest in California history National Guard aerial units have dropped around one million pounds of fire retardant and flown some 24 helicopter hours, dropping 60,000 gallons of water in two weeks. The Nevada National Guard has also sent helicopter crews to provide water and retardent drops on the fire. On July 31, out-of-state fire resources from Arizona, Texas and other western states also arrived at the Park Fire to relieve and assist California-based fire personnel. The Park Fire has pulled in over 6,500 total personnel, 40 helicopters, 525 fire engines, 134 hand crews and more. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. Key Insights The projected fair value for OSK Holdings Berhad is RM1.07 based on Dividend Discount Model OSK Holdings Berhad is estimated to be 34% overvalued based on current share price of RM1.43 OSK Holdings Berhad's peers seem to be trading at a higher premium to fair value based onthe industry average of -344% In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of OSK Holdings Berhad (KLSE:OSK) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow. We generally believe that a company's value is the present value of all of the cash it will generate in the future. However, a DCF is just one valuation metric among many, and it is not without flaws. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model. See our latest analysis for OSK Holdings Berhad The Calculation We have to calculate the value of OSK Holdings Berhad slightly differently to other stocks because it is a real estate company. Instead of using free cash flows, which are hard to estimate and often not reported by analysts in this industry, dividends per share (DPS) payments are used. This often underestimates the value of a stock, but it can still be good as a comparison to competitors. The 'Gordon Growth Model' is used, which simply assumes that dividend payments will continue to increase at a sustainable growth rate forever. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a company's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In this case we used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (3.6%). The expected dividend per share is then discounted to today's value at a cost of equity of 11%. Compared to the current share price of RM1.4, the company appears potentially overvalued at the time of writing. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent. Value Per Share = Expected Dividend Per Share / (Discount Rate - Perpetual Growth Rate) = RM0.08 / (11% 3.6%) = RM1.1 dcf Important Assumptions We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at OSK Holdings Berhad as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 11%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.342. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business. Story continues SWOT Analysis for OSK Holdings Berhad Strength Earnings growth over the past year exceeded its 5-year average. Debt is well covered by earnings. Dividend is in the top 25% of dividend payers in the market. Weakness Earnings growth over the past year underperformed the Real Estate industry. Opportunity Annual revenue is forecast to grow faster than the Malaysian market. Good value based on P/E ratio compared to estimated Fair P/E ratio. Threat Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow. Paying a dividend but company has no free cash flows. Looking Ahead: Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. Why is the intrinsic value lower than the current share price? For OSK Holdings Berhad, we've put together three relevant aspects you should further research: Risks: Every company has them, and we've spotted 1 warning sign for OSK Holdings Berhad you should know about. Future Earnings: How does OSK's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Malaysian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com Hungary will not face oil shortages due to Ukraine's decision to block Lukoil PJSC's crude transit, according to Zsolt Hernadi, CEO of Hungarian oil and gas conglomerate MOL Group. Lets not panic, Hernadi said to audience members at a conference on Monday. He said that Hungary has 90 days of strategic reserves, with the option to buy Russian crude via Croatia. This statement contradicts concerns raised by Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government and Slovakia, which sought EU intervention. However, the EU dismissed these worries, stating that Ukraines sanctions against Lukoil will not impact transit operations using the Druzhba pipeline. EU ambassadors are not sympathetic to Budapest's and Bratislava's complaints about Kyiv blocking the flow of Russian pipeline oil, Politico reported on July 29, citing behind-the-scene talks among European diplomats. While EU officials publicly promised to review the matter, they privately voiced exasperation as neither Hungary nor Slovakia managed to reduce their dependency on Russian oil while many other member states did. Read also: Fico criticizes Kyivs sanctions against Russian oil in call with Shmyhal Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Hurricane Debby: Boy, 13, dies after tree falls onto Florida home Deputies in Levy County said a teenager was killed after a tree fell onto his home while Hurricane Debby was passing over the area. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< The Levy County Sheriffs Office said the deadly accident happened around 8 a.m. at 8770 NW 168 Place. When the first responders arrived, they found a large tree that had fallen into a mobile home. Deputies said a 13-year-old boy was crushed to death inside of the home. CLICK HERE to read the full story by WFTV. Read: FIRST ALERT WEATHER DAY: Tropical Storm Debby continues to spin over Southeast Georgia [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. For the first half of the summer, the mid-Hudson Valley did not see much rain, but that may be changing. The forecast predicts another week of rainy days for the Poughkeepsie and Middletown areas. According to meteorologist Tom Wasula of the National Weather Service Albany Office, and lead meteorologist John Cristantello of the National Weather Service New York Office, there may be some spots of relief from the showers Wednesday, but most of this week will include cloudy skies. Hurricane Debby, a tropical storm hitting the southern states, may affect the weather forecast for this week. To stay up to date on the weather for this week, see the National Weather Service's website at weather.gov. More: This picture-perfect Hudson Valley farm is bursting with sunflower fields Forecast for Poughkeepsie: Aug. 6-9, plus weekend brief In the Poughkeepsie area on Tuesday, there is a chance for showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon, with the highs around 80 degrees. Wasula said there is a chance of thunderstorms earlier Tuesday night as well, but there may be a slight drop in the humidity for Tuesday night into Wednesday. Wednesday, Wasula noted, could bring a bit of a break from the rain and the oppressive heat, with the high temperature forecasted in the mid-70s. "We start out with a chance of showers, but then things could improve in the afternoon," he said. Moving later into the week, Thursday afternoon and evening, the chance of showers returns, with highs in the upper 70s again. Showers are likely for the night too. "The wettest part of the forecast looks like in that late Thursday night into Saturday portion," Wasula said. The amount of rainfall is uncertain, due to tropical storm Debby, but Wasula predicted some periods of moderate to heavy rainfall look possible. He noted it's predicted to be cooler Friday, with highs in the lower 70s, but again, the chance for rain persists at about 70%. Similar outlooks for rain are predicted for Saturday at 60%, but the high is 80 degrees. It is still early to be certain, but Sunday looks to be the better day this weekend, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 81 degrees. Forecast for Middletown: Aug. 6-9, plus weekend brief For Tuesday in the Middletown area, Cristantello said the cold front "sagging down" will most likely bring a couple of showers and maybe scattered thunderstorms, with chances increasing from the afternoon into the night. He doesn't think it'll be a steady rain, but showers will most likely be more numerous around the area. The high temperature is predicted at 79 degrees. As well, "Tuesday through the rest of the week could start to feel quite muggy," he said. Cristantello noted tropical storm Debby too, which may affect the forecast for later this week. As of now, Wednesday looks to give some relief from the rain and humidity in the afternoon, with high temperatures in the low 70s, but you may see some showers in the morning. The dry period from Wednesday afternoon may extend into Thursday, "but you can't rely on anything," he said. The residual impacts from the tropical system may change their predictions as the week progresses. Chances for rain go up again on Friday and into the weekend for Middletown, with the temperatures topping out in the low 70s on Friday. Similar to the Poughkeepsie area, Sunday in the Middletown area looks to be the mildest, with mostly sunny weather and a high temperature near 79 degrees. This article originally appeared on Poughkeepsie Journal: Hurricane Debby impact in NY: Heavy rain, storms expected this week JOHNSON CITY, NY (WIVT/WBGH) The Broome County IDA gave the community a first look at some models related to the construction of a proposed tech park near Airport Road. The Industrial Development Agency held its first in-person public forum since announcing plans to create a corporate park straddling the Towns of Maine and Union. The open house was held at Johnson City High School. There were several stations with different visual aids, and people could attach sticky notes to the displays, with any questions they have. Agency Executive Director Stacey Duncan says the planning and development of the park is reliant on feedback from the community. Duncan says some ideas for the park include adding walking or hiking trails, and a 24/7 accessible interior with cafes, movie theatres and gyms. So, we have ideas for what we consider old development and new development. So, one of the goals with this to build out a site that fits into the natural environment. Embracing the topography rather than using the topography as a challenge. That looks at, what are some amenities outside of just a building footprint, says Duncan. Some of those who dont support the tech park showed up to the open house in opposition, handing out fliers and wearing t-shirts denouncing the project. The park would span 526 acres between Airport Road and East Maine Road. Diane Sattler is a homeowner on East Maine Road, and says people move to that area for its beautiful landscapes, and the tech park would change that. Were totally disgusted with the way they think they can just take things. Weve lived here forty-years, its been rural for a reason. People moved here because it was rural, and thats where they wanted to live, says Sattler. The IDA says the next steps are to finish the environmental impact assessment, which will likely take a year, and then present those findings to the public for input. The Town of Maine board opposed changing the zoning of the area from rural/residential to industrial. Duncan says there will be other public information sessions in the future. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WIVT - News 34. arial photograph of the Jump Fire in Owyhee County, Idaho The Bureau of Land Management has closed the Jump Creek area in Owyhee County due to a nearby wildfire, which has burned at least 12,000 acres. (Courtesy of the Boise District BLM) The Bureau of Land Management Owyhee Field Office is temporarily closing some BLM-managed public lands in Owyhee County, including the Jump Creek Recreation Site, due to the risk of the nearby Jump Fire. This closure is essential to ensure public and firefighter safety and to allow fire fighting crews to respond effectively, a press release announcing the closure said. This closure will remain in effect until the risk of wildland fire subsides. The Jump Creek Recreation Site is located seven miles southwest of Marsing in southwestern Idaho. The order does not include private land, according to the BLM. The Jump Fire is believed to have been sparked by lightening on Monday about 15 miles south and southwest of Marsing, according to the press release. At the time of the BLMs closure announcement, the fire had burned roughly 12,000 acres of grass and brush with 0 percent containment. For the latest information on the Jump Fire, visit https://www.idahofireinfo.com/. BDO_OFO_JumpCreek_Temp_closure_Notice_signed Jump Creek Recreation Area DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Just a few years after the Idaho Department of Fish and Game implemented a controversial trail-camera-based method for counting the number of wolves in the state, the agency announced it would switch to a new method. Fish and Game officials now plan to use genetic information taken from teeth to estimate population size, a process officials believe will provide more accurate estimates for smaller wolf populations, Shane Roberts, Fish and Games wildlife bureau chief, told the Idaho Statesman in an interview. Roberts said modeling showed that the trail-camera-based method will become less accurate as wolf counts decline. Fish and Game plans to whittle the number of wolves down to around 500 animals under a management plan approved last year. The agency said the new genetic method, which produced similar results as the camera method, put last summers wolf population at around 1,150 animals down about 200 from the previous year. Officials were already taking teeth from trapped or hunted wolves to determine their age. Weve always collected teeth, but now weve got a new use for those teeth, Roberts told the Statesman. Fish and Game began tracking wolf populations using radio collars after wolves were reintroduced to Idaho in 1995. It switched to a trail camera-based model in 2019. That method, also called a space-to-event model, used a network of remote trail cameras that took photos every 10 minutes or when they detect motion. Fish and Game analyzed the thousands of photographs from the camera network using artificial intelligence to identify wolves, calculate the amount of space between them, and estimate their population. But the technique drew vocal critics, including those from the scientific community, who were skeptical of its accuracy. An incorrect population estimate could eventually drop wolf populations and put them back on the Endangered Species Act list. Genetic modeling is producing accurate results Researchers have been developing their genetic modeling method for about two years, according to Fish and Game. Along with determining wolves ages, researchers can also extract genetic material from the teeth that provide clues on which wolves are related, said Matthew Mumma, an Idaho Fish and Game researcher. Using the genetic information to estimate the number of different packs, combined with information about wolf biology such as litter size, death rates and pack size a model developed by the department can estimate population size for the entire state, Mumma said. But since biology isnt perfect, researchers dont want to rely on a limiting set of biology factors for the model. Instead, the model creates numerous possibilities for the states wolf population size, depending on a different mix of biological factors. First, it uses a combination of those factors to provide a range of estimates on the wolf population. From there, researchers compare the hypothetical populations to the characteristics of wolves that were hunted that year. They take the top 1% of results from the model that resembled the most like the wolf harvest, then average those numbers to produce an estimated population, Roberts told the Statesman. Were not relying on any one comparison to one hypothetical population, Roberts said. When the department decided to pursue the new genetics method, it had years of teeth from wolves killed by hunting, trapping or depredation. Researchers were able to compare five years of results from the camera capture model with the new genetics method and found that the estimated populations were almost identical, Roberts said. Were very comfortable with the genetic method that it is producing accurate results, Roberts told the Statesman. New method is unproven, critic says Still, the new method is not without skeptics. Suzanne Asha Stone, director of International Wildlife Coexistence Network, told the Statesman her organization is requesting access to Fish and Games data to see whether its conclusions can be duplicated. Stone, who also cofounded the Wood River Wolf Project, which works with sheep ranchers to provide nonlethal wolf deterrents, was among the critics of the camera-based counting method. They said Fish and Games use of motion detection to capture wolf photos skewed its results, as did its placement of cameras near places it expected wolves to travel. Instead of switching to a more reliable and tested method for counting the wolf population, Idaho has again chosen an unproven method that has never been peer reviewed for the purpose of estimating wildlife populations, Stone said in a text message. Stone worried unreliable data would make it impossible to tell whether the wolf population was at risk of collapse as Fish and Game tries to cut the population by more than half. Roberts said results from the new genetic testing only reinforce that the camera method was producing accurate estimates. The department plans to submit the new genetics method to a scientific journal for review, but the model will be used for next years wolf count in lieu of the camera capture model, Roberts said. Roberts also hopes that the method can be modified to get accurate wolf counts on a regional level, which would be more useful for our regional managers, he said. There may be things that come to light during the peer review process that we find ways to improve, Roberts said. But we dont know of anything that needs to be improved right now. IDEA celebrates first Senior class EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) As IDEA Public Schools in El Paso welcomes over 6,000 students for the new school year, it also introduces its first Senior class at IDEA Edgemere College Preparatory and IDEA Rio Vista College Preparatory. According to IDEA El Paso, IDEA Edgemere College Preparatory and IDEA Rio Vista College Preparatory are welcoming their first 12th-grade students. The Edgemere campus celebrated the Senior class by hosting a parade and having students walk down the halls holding their future colleges. We are excited to welcome our first class of seniors at two of our schools, says Frankie Gray, executive director of IDEA El Paso. Were just one step away in having these bright scholars fulfill our mission of providing every student the opportunity to go to and through college. The graduating class of 2025 at IDEA El Paso has achieved significant milestones, completing over 11 AP and career tech courses and visiting more than 15 colleges and universities. I was with these students from the beginning as their 6th grade ELA teacher when they first entered our school as our founding college prep scholars, said Alejandra Najera, principal of IDEA Edgemere College Preparatory. Now, as their principal and for many other staff members, this is an extraordinary moment for us. Its fulfilling to see how much theyve grown and to finally see them walk at the end of the school year. For more information about IDEA Public Schools in El Paso and their mission to provide every student the opportunity to go to and through college, visit their website. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. New Illinois law allows EMS workers to be suspended statewide if charged with a crime SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) State Senator Doris Turner is hoping a new Illinois law holds EMS workers more accountable. The law allows the Illinois Department of Public Health director to suspend an EMS worker statewide if they get charged with a crime while at work and if the director thinks the worker will pose the possibility of harm to the public if they continue to work. Illinois overhauls its child labor laws We have to hold bad actors accountable, Turner (D-Springfield) said. People need to know that those who respond to an emergency will prioritize their safety. In early 2023, two EMS workers, Peggy Finley and Peter Cadigan, were charged with first-degree murder for 35-year-old Earl Moore Jr. of Springfield. The incident was caught on body-camera footage of Springfield Police Officers who were called to the scene. By putting these guardrails in place, we are ensuring public safety is at the forefront of our priorities, the state senator added. The law is effective immediately. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. The founder of the Juarez Technology Hub and operator of several businesses on both sides of the United States-Mexico border is the new leader of the El Paso Chamber. Ricardo Mora was chosen to be the new chief executive officer of one of El Pasos largest business organizations after a 90-day national search that brought about 300 applicants, chamber officials announced Monday. He replaces Andrea Hutchins, the first woman to serve as the chambers CEO in its 125-year history. She left the job in June because her husband, an Army officer, was transferred out of El Paso. Our selection committee was purposeful in finding a CEO who can help develop and capitalize on opportunities of binational near-shoring, tech manufacturing and human capital development. Ricardo doesnt just fit the bill, he exceeds it, Elizabeth OHara, the chambers board chairwoman, said in a statement. Ricardo Mora, CEO of the Juarez Technology Hub, speaks at a Microsoft event in El Paso in 2019 as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, middle, and Microsoft President Brad Smith listen. As co-founder and chief executive officer of the Juarez Technology Hub, Mora has helped oversee the Bridge Accelerator binational supplier development program, aimed at helping manufacturing suppliers on both sides of the border expand their markets. The program started in 2019 with $1.5 million from Microsoft. Mora resigned as the tech hub's CEO to take his new job, a chamber official said. Mora, who describes himself as a serial entrepreneur, has been operating RM International. Its his El Paso company with subsidiaries in telecommunications and food services in Mexico and the United States, according to his biography on the website of the New Mexico State University Arrowhead Center advisory council, of which he is a member. Arrowhead is an economic development organization at NMSU. He opened two Taco Tote restaurant franchises in the Phoenix area years ago, according to a 2006 El Paso Times story. Ricardo Mora, new El Paso Chamber CEO. He was born in El Paso and grew up in Juarez, where his dad worked in a maquiladora and his mom operated a salsa bottling company, according to a 2019 profile in Inc. Magazine. "I am honored to join the El Paso Chamber and look forward to driving growth and innovation in our business community," Mora said in a statement. Besides the Arrowhead Center advisory council, Mora also serves on several other nonprofit organizations boards, including Desarrolla Economico Ciudad Juarez, Funax-FabLab Juarez, and the University of Texas at El Paso Development board, according to chamber information. Mora begins his new job Aug. 19. Vic Kolenc may be reached at 915-546-6421; vkolenc@elpasotimes.com; @vickolenc on Twitter, now known as X. Ricardo Mora, co-founder and CEO of the Juarez Technology Hub, speaks in October 2019 at a Microsoft event in El Paso. From left to right, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, Microsoft President Brad Smith, then Chihuahua Gov. Javier Corral, and Alejandra de la Vega-Foster, then a Chihuahua economic development official, listen. This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: El Paso-Juarez entrepreneur Ricardo Mora is new El Paso Chamber CEO ILLINOIS (WCIA) Vice President Kamala Harris officially announced her running mate is Minnesota governor Tim Walz, and Illinois politicians are voicing their approval for the pick. Governor J.B. Pritzker said hes fully committed to helping Harris and Walz get to the White House. Trump campaign slams Harris VP pick Walz: West Coast wannabe Governor Tim Walz is a proven leader who brings to public service the big heart and hard work of a Midwesterner, Pritzker said in a statement Tuesday morning. His unwavering commitment to improving the lives of working families and to lifting up the most vulnerable is why Im so excited he will be the Democratic Partys nominee for Vice President. Tim is a friend and fellow Midwestern governor, and Ive been proud to serve alongside him. Vice President Kamala Harris once again has proven her leadership by choosing someone our party and the nation can be proud of. Pritzker was one of a handful of candidates in talks with Kamala Harris to be Vice President. Five things to know about Tim Walz Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (D-IL) also applauded the pick of Walz. Tim Walz is a former soldier and teacher. Hes a champion for family farmers and rural communities. And hell always stand with working men and women, she wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). Im thrilled that Kamala Harris has chosen a proud Midwesterner as her running mate and I look forward to doing everything I can to elect them to the White House in November! Meanwhile, Republicans like Illinois GOP chair Kathy Salvi criticized Walz. Vice President Harriss pick reflects the agenda she intends to bring to this nation: another radical leftist from a deep blue state who will continue the disastrous Bidenomics policies crippling the nations economy as we speak, Salvi said. At least Americans can breathe easy knowing that Illinoiss own out-of-touch leftist billionaire governor JB Pritzker wont be a heartbeat away from the Presidency anytime soon. With leftists like these headlining the Democrat ticket, President Trumps message of secure borders, safe streets, and prosperous communities will win in November. This is a developing story. We will provide updates as we learn more. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WMBD) The Illinois State Fair announced theme and discount days are coming for the 2024 festivities. According to an Illinois State Fair news release, different themes include horse racing, agriculture, and more. Local law enforcement out in the community for Night Out Against Crime Our theme days allow us to celebrate the diversity of Illinois State Fair and everything it has to offer, said Rebecca Clark, Illinois State Fair Manager. Each year, we look for opportunities to make the Illinois State Fair affordable and accessible for families and to broaden their exposure to agriculture, the states number one industry. A list of different themed days provided by the Illinois State Fair can be found below: Thursday, Aug. 8 County Fairs & Horse Racing Day, Double the Fun Friday, Aug. 9 Agriculture Day Saturday, Aug. 10 Kids Day Sunday, Aug. 11 Veterans & Gold Star Families Day (Free admission for veterans and their families) Monday, Aug. 12 Senior & Scout Day (Free admission for seniors and scouts) Tuesday, Aug. 13 Twosday ($2 Admission for seniors and adults) Wednesday, Aug. 14 Governors Day Thursday, Aug. 15 Republican Day Friday, Aug. 16 First Responder & Healthcare Heroes Day (Free admission for first responders and healthcare workers w/ID) Saturday, Aug. 17 Park District Conservation Day Sunday, Aug. 18 Family Day The fair runs Aug. 8 through Aug. 18. More information can be found here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. MISHAWAKA A townhall meeting will be held Tuesday, Aug. 6 with two Democrats running in Indiana elections this fall: governor candidate Jennifer McCormick and Heidi Beidinger, whos running for the District 5 state house representative. The public meeting will run from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Mishawaka Penn Harris Library, 209 Lincoln Way E. in downtown. McCormick was the states last elected Indiana superintendent of public instruction. Beidinger had previously run unsuccessfully for the same house seat, which represents Mishawaka, Granger and Osceola. She is again facing incumbent Republican Dale DeVon. This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Democrat Indiana governor candidate McCormick and Beidinger in townhall From left: Indiana Department of Transportation Commissioner Mike Smith, former Gov. Mike Daniels, Gov. Eric Holcomb and former Gov. Mike Pence cut the ribbon on the last Interstate 69 interchange linking Evansville to Indianapolis and beyond, on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. (Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle) A trio of Hoosier governors current and former gleefully cut the checkered tape Tuesday on the final interchange of a mammoth project that took nearly a century to become reality: the Evansville-to-Indianapolis leg of Interstate 69. The $4.3 billion project will open three years ahead of a scheduled 2027 target, and enable drivers to zoom from Canada to Indianas southern edge without encountering a single stoplight. This was an investment in us. This was an investment in our future, Gov. Eric Holcomb told dozens of elected officials, agency leaders, contractors and others assembled beneath a white tent pitched over the sun-warmed asphalt. This was an investment in realizing our potential, Holcomb continued, standing beside former Govs. Mike Pence and Mitch Daniels. And Im just proud to be with all of you and my predecessors who led the charge to be able to celebrate this day. The Indiana Department of Transportation began construction on the 142-mile project in 2008. It opened the first three segments in 2012, and the next two in 2015 and 2018. Finish Line, the last and priciest piece, has been under construction since 2019. It cost $2 billion. Finish Line, the last piece of the Evansville-to-Indianapolis Interstate 69 project, will open this week. At an opening ceremony, an IndyCar sits just behind a finish line painted across the new interchange, on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. (Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle) But on Tuesday, its final interchange on the southwest side of Indianapolis will open southbound. Itll welcome northbound traffic later this week on or after Friday, according to INDOT. Finish Line involved construction of 10 new interchanges, 35 lane miles of local access roads and upgrades to more than 26 miles of State Road 37 to bring it up to Interstate standards, per INDOT. Holcomb likened completion to victory over the projects naysayers. This has turned a lot of cynics. Theyre going to have to find something else to doubt in their lifetime, he said. But its not going to be I-69 anymore, as of today. Pence celebrated the finished project as more than just a highway. He called it a monument to the determination of the people of Indiana. Daniels, who kick-started construction with his 2006 transportation funding plan Major Moves, described trying to pull the state out of an infrastructure gap worth $2.5 billion. He was one of four people in a windowless room, sorting through bids for his controversial plan to privatize the Indiana Toll Road via a long-term lease. Ceremony attendees wave checkered flags to celebrate the opening of the last Interstate 69 interchange in a decades-long project, on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. (Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle) When we opened the last envelope and saw a bid for essentially $4 billion cash, we all instantly saw a whole new future, Daniels told the crowd. And Im not stretching when I say: I saw this day. I didnt know how long it would take, but I saw this day. For Daniels, I-69 represents connection to the rest of the state. There is no place too small, there is no place too remote for us to care about it and to pull into the Hoosier family and help to flourish if we can, Daniels said. Hoosiers from Evansville and the rest of southwest Indiana have led the charge to build an interstate connection to Indianapolis. They dreamed up the idea by at least the 1940s, when what is now INDOT first considered embarking on such a project. Success took decades of politicking at the local, state and national levels, and myriad required environmental studies, with public comment sessions and sustained opposition. Theres still some work left. The area near the interchange will remain an active construction zone through the end of 2024, per INDOT spokeswoman Natalie Garrett. The agency is working to add an additional lane to each direction of I-465 between I-65 and I-70, on the southwest side of Indianapolis. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Some Hoosiers were wishful for former South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg to become presidential candidate Kamala Harris' running mate, but they knew it wasn't a slam dunk. One Indiana Democrat, though, was all in for Tuesday's veepstakes winner, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, in the days leading up to Harris' announcement. Walz is "something bold, something big," 8th Congressional District candidate Erik Hurt said at a state Democrats event Saturday. The governor is someone who can "get the blood pumping," Hurt said particularly among young people, with his policy proposals like universal school meals and preschool. "I don't think now is the time to play the same old song or compromise on what we're about," Hurt said. "I think you can energize the people in those swing states with policies they can really rally behind." The pool of potential running mates was concentrated mostly in battleground or Midwestern states. Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan will be key pathways to victory for both parties, and pulling from America's heartland serves as a clear appeal to those voters. Although Minnesota is not considered a swing state, Walz's plainspoken nature and Nebraskan upbringing could be a good fit for the Midwest, Democrats say. Tim comes from rural America and will prioritize the small towns and cities throughout the industrial Midwest that are often overlooked," Indiana Democratic Chair Mike Schmuhl said in a statement. "He knows its time to end the fear and division in our politics and return to a politics of respect for our neighbors and the common good." Buttigieg, the U.S. transportation secretary, praised the pick in a post on X, formerly Twitter. Tim Walz is an exceptionally effective governor - and also great to work with. Im excited for what his Midwestern voice, military experience, and common-sense values will bring to our winning ticket, and for everything the Harris-Walz administration will deliver for Americans. Pete Buttigieg (@PeteButtigieg) August 6, 2024 Just a few weeks ago, Walz was not mentioned in most discussions for Harris' possible running mate. After striking political gold with his use of the word "weird" to describe Republican vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance, the term quickly became the insult du jour toward both former President Donald Trump and Vance across the Democratic Party. Trump allies were quick Tuesday to brand Walz as an extremist and out-of-touch liberal. U.S. Rep. Jim Banks, GOP candidate for Senate in Indiana, criticized the governor for not voting for the Veterans Affairs Mission Act, which aimed to improve health care access for veterans. Tim Walz = handpicked by Ilhan Omar and The Squad https://t.co/APxe62KsLx Jim Banks (@Jim_Banks) August 6, 2024 Walz said in a statement after the bill's passage that he withheld his vote due to "the bills lack of a sustainable funding source." Randy Niemeyer, Republican nominee for Indiana's 1st Congressional District, said the selection of Walz does not change the record of Harris, President Joe Biden's vice president and a former California senator. "Kamala Harris' selection of Tim Walz as her running mate is a clear signal that the radical, destructive policies that have harmed our nation will continue," Niemeyer said in a statement. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana politicians react to Kamala Harris' VP pick, Tim Walz FILE - Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb delivers his State of the State address to a joint session of the Legislature at the Statehouse, Jan. 9, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings, File) INDIANAPOLIS (AP) Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb marked the completion of a $4 billion, 142-mile extension of a major interstate highway Tuesday, calling it a historic milestone 16 years after work began on the project. Holcombs two predecessors former Vice President Mike Pence and former Gov. Mitch Daniels joined him at a morning ceremony on Indianapolis southwest side, hours before Interstate 69s southbound ramps to Interstate 465 were scheduled to open to traffic. Northbound ramps are set to open as soon as Friday. Holcomb called the completion of the extension's 26-mile (42-kilometer) Martinsville-to-Indianapolis segment a historic milestone." It's the final stretch of the 142-mile (229-kilometer) I-69 extension from Evansville to Indianapolis whose construction began in 2008. Some work on pavement and bridges will continue through the rest of the year in the Indianapolis area. Before work on the extension began, I-69 ran from the Canadian border at Port Huron, Michigan, south to Indianapolis. Completion of the final link means it now runs continuously from Port Huron to Evansville. The project spanned the administrations of Daniels, Pence and Holcomb, all Republicans. The highway, which was built in six segments, faced legal challenges from environmental groups but those failed to scuttle the project. There were a lot of cynics along the way, a lot of doubters that understandably wondered if it would be completed in their lifetimes," Holcomb told reporters Tuesday, The Indianapolis Star reported. "Today we prove that no project is too big. While work on the extension began in southwestern Indiana in 2008, construction of the final section that now runs between Martinsville and Indianapolis didn't begin until 2019. That $2 billion final stretch upgraded 26 miles (42 kilometers) of State Road 37 to interstate standards and included construction of 10 new interchanges and more than 35 lane miles (56 kilometers) of local access roads through Morgan, Johnson and Marion Counties. EtherealX, an Indian space startup, has raised $5 million in a seed funding round as it plans to develop fully reusable medium-lift launch vehicles, making satellite launches cost-effective and time-efficient. Space launches have multiplied in recent years. However, despite the number of players, launches still involve substantial transportation costs and considerable waiting periods. For instance, SpaceX launches are booked until 2026, even while on a ride-sharing model. EtherealX aims to solve this problem with a new fully reusable medium-lift vehicle, offering absolute reusability to help reduce transportation costs and cut launch timeframes. Unlike SpaceX's Falcon 9, which provides partial reusability by bringing its booster back to Earth after successful launches, EtherealX is designing its vehicles to get both the upper stage and booster back. Founded in 2022 by Manu J. Nair (CEO), along with former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) scientist Shubhayu Sardar (COO) and aerospace engineer Prashant Sharma (CTO), the Bengaluru-headquartered startup intends to take on SpaceX with its medium-lift vehicle named Razor Crest Mk-1. In a fully reusable configuration, the design is intended to put 8 tons into the lower Earth orbit. The vehicle could also put over 24.8 tons into the lower Earth orbit in an expendable and 22.8 tons in a partially reusable configuration. They claim it can also deliver payloads in geostationary transfer and trans-lunar injection orbits. "When bringing back the upper stages, the reentry heat is so much that the refurbishment cost is almost always more than the fresh vehicle itself. So, we built from scratch a completely new rocket engine cycle, which, coupled with the deployment system, allows us to operate our engines efficiently in both vacuum and atmosphere," said Nair in an interview. The startup claims that it can operate between $350 and $2,000 per kilogram, a fraction of what launch vehicles, including Falcon 9, currently offer and 1/35th of the global average launch price. "At the price point at which we will enter the market, we'll comfortably capture 30-40% of it," Nair told TechCrunch. The two-year-old startup has acquired 16 acres of land in Tamil Nadu, where it is developing what it says is India's largest privately developed rocket engine facility. What's the approach for complete reusability? Unlike conventional methodologies for fending off the reentry heat, such as heat tiles and other thermal protection systems, Nair explained to TechCrunch that EtherealX's proprietary rocket engine cycle works along with a deployment system to redirect the reentry heat throughout the reentry phase. This helps the system to operate efficiently in both vacuum and atmosphere and allows the startup to achieve pinpoint landing as opposed to the traditional ballistic reentry, which requires a much larger range of target landing zones. "The closest model to our approach could be SpaceX's Starship. They're attempting to bring the upper stage back, but they're doing it with the usage of heat shields or tiles," the executive said. "We're not fighting the reentry heat." The startup declined to provide too many details on the record so it can test in secrecy. Currently, EtherealX does not produce the rocket engine in-house to avoid manufacturing-related capital expenditures and has partnered with a few companies to outsource its production. However, it does have plans to manufacture the rocket over time. "During the rocket's development, we need to observe the most effective way of manufacturing these components so that we can establish a proper manufacturing facility, which will be tested in-house," said Nair. EtherealX aims to test its development through a technology demonstrator vehicle (TDV), which it plans to launch in 2026. The company told TechCrunch that the startup plans for a full orbital launch to around 400 kilometers with its initial vehicle, using the same engine type as the full-scale vehicle but in a smaller count: four engines on the upper stage and one in the booster stage. The TDV will be 35 meters tall and 2.5 meters wide with a 1.2-ton capacity. The co-founder told TechCrunch that it is going with the TDV launch first to verify the telemetry and flight software for its commercial launch later. Meanwhile, the startup has already identified 35 potential customers for its 2026 launch, though it plans to go ahead with 1015 customers initially. India's space ecosystem has grown significantly. The South Asian nation is home to 229 space tech startups, per the Indian government data, and the ecosystem already has players building small satellite launch vehicles and solutions to offer space situational awareness and hyperspectral imagery. The Indian government projects that the country will raise its share in the global space ecosystem fourfold by 2030. In the last few months, New Delhi introduced its space policy and updated rules to attract foreign investors and companies. The country also gained global attention for events, including its successful moon landing and partnership with NASA for joining Artemis Accords. In 2023, space tech investments in India hit $126 million, up 7% from the $118 million raised in 2022 and a 235% increase from the $37.6 million in 2021, per Tracxn. The funding landscape has so far been driven by early-stage investments as the ecosystem is yet to be matured for commercial activities. EtherealX's seed funding round, led by Indian deep tech fund YourNest, also included BIG Capital, BlueHill Capital, Campus Fund, SGgrow and Golden Sparrow Ventures. The startup plans to use its fresh funds to kick off engine test firing in the next six months and set the pitch for its TDV launch in a couple of years. It also aims to finish building its engine test facility and manufacturing the 40-kilonewton and 925-kilonewton engines. In these image released by Indonesian Police, Bayu Suseno, spokesperson for the Cartenz 2024 Peace Task Force, holds portrait of Glen Malcolm Conning, a pilot for Indonesian aviation company PT Intan Angkasa Air Service, during a press conference in Timika, Indonesia, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. Gunmen stormed a helicopter and killed the New Zealand pilot shortly after it landed in Indonesia's restive Papua region on Monday, and they released two health workers and two children it was carrying, police said. (Indonesian Police via AP) Indonesian security forces on Tuesday recovered the body of a New Zealand pilot who was killed in an alleged separatist attack in the restive Papua region, officials said. Glen Malcolm Conning, a helicopter pilot for Indonesian aviation company PT Intan Angkasa Air Service, was shot dead on Monday by gunmen allegedly with the West Papua Liberation Army, the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement, shortly after landing in Alama, a remote district in the Mimika regency of Central Papua province. The attackers released all six passengers, including two health workers and two children, said Bayu Suseno, the spokesperson of the Cartenz Peace Taskforce, the joint security force set up by the Indonesian government to deal with separatist groups in Papua. We suspect that the armed group that shot the pilot was from Nduga district, led by Egianus Kogoya, Suseno said in a video statement. He described the group as the most dangerous and very active in disturbing the security around Timika, a town that feeds the Grasberg mine which is nearly half owned by U.S.-based Freeport-McMoRan and is run by PT Freeport Indonesia. This group is our main target to arrest this year, Suseno said. In February 2023, Kogoya, a regional commander in the Free Papua Movement, abducted Philip Mark Mehrtens, a pilot from Christchurch who was working for Indonesian aviation company Susi Air. Kogoya and his troops stormed a single-engine plane shortly after it landed on a small runway in a mountainous village. He said they wouldn't release Mehrtens unless Indonesia agrees to Papua becoming a sovereign country. A year and a half later, Mehrtens remains a captive of the rebels. Security forces found the body of Conning on Tuesday inside his helicopter that was still parked on a small runway in Alama, in a mountainous district that can be reached only by small aircraft, said Lt. Gen. Richard Tampubolon, the Chief of the Joint Regional Command of Papua. He said bad weather conditions halted their search and evacuation operation on Monday. The rescue operation on Tuesday also evacuated about 13 people, mostly teachers and health workers from Alama, who were traumatized by the incident and fear of their safety. Tampubolon said the body of the pilot was flown to a hospital in Timika for an autopsy before being returned to his family. A preliminary medical examination showed gunshot wounds and slashes from sharp weapons on his body, Tampubolon said. We strongly condemned this inhumane killing of a pilot who had made many contributions in providing humanitarian services to remote communities in Papua. West Papua Liberation Army spokesperson Sebby Sambom said in a voice message to The Associated Press on Monday that they had designated the area as a restricted zone where civilian aircraft were prohibited from landing. He blamed the pilot for disregarding their warnings. The kidnapping and killing reflects the deteriorating security situation in Papua, Indonesias easternmost region and a former Dutch colony in the western part of New Guinea that is ethnically and culturally distinct from much of Indonesia. Papua was incorporated into Indonesia in 1969, after a U.N.-sponsored ballot that was widely seen as a sham. Since then, a low-level insurgency has simmered in the region, which was divided into six provinces. Flying is the only practical way to access many areas in the mountainous easternmost provinces of Papua and West Papua Man kills neighbour for taunting him about not being married, police say Persistent jibes about his bachelorhood provoked an Indonesian man to kill (Getty) A man in Indonesia killed his neighbour for persistently asking why he wasnt married, police said. Parlindungan Siregar, 45, attacked Asgim Irianto, 60, a retired civil servant, with a piece of wood around 8pm on 29 July, the Straits Times reported. The incident took place in Tapanuli Selatan in northern Sumatra. Assistant police commissioner Maria Marpaung said on 31 July that Mr Irianto ran out after Siregar attacked him but fell down after he was hit on the head. Siregar continued hitting him until their neighbours intervened. They took Mr Irianto to a local community health centre but he died on the way. Siregar was arrested shortly after and admitted to plotting his neighbours murder, Ms Marpaung said. She added: He was determined to beat Mr Asgim to death because of the frequent taunts about his single status. Police said the neighbours didnt share a particularly cordial relationship. They would argue over their chickens going into each others coops. Last month, a man in Indonesia allegedly stabbed his friend to death after they got into an argument over which came first, the chicken or the egg. The suspect, identified only as DR, stabbed Kadir Markus from Muna Regency in South East Sulawesi province at least 15 times after they got into a heated argument over the riddle on 24 July. The X sign is seen on the roof of the headquarters of the social media platform previously known as Twitter, in San Francisco, on 29 July, 2023 (Getty Images) Elon Musk has announced that he will shut down the San Francisco headquarters of X less than two years after taking over the company. The tech billionaire claimed he had no choice but to close the iconic offices that have been home to the social media firm for more than a decade. As part of his overhaul of the company, previously called Twitter, Mr Musk plans to create an everything app that allows users to also send and receive payments. It is impossible to operate in San Francisco if youre processing payments, he wrote in a post on X. Thats why Stripe, Block (CashApp) and others had to move. Mr Musk appears to be referring to financial regulations in the state, though Stripe cited a lack of available office space in San Francisco as its primary reason for leaving the city in 2019. In an email to staff, first reported by the New York Times, X chief executive Linda Yaccarino announced that the offices will be closed over the next few weeks. This is an important decision that impacts many of you, but it is the right one for our company in the long term, she wrote. The move comes less than a month after the worlds wealthiest person announced that SpaceX would be moving its headquarters to Texas, having previously moved his other company Tesla there in 2021 over frustration about Californian laws. He described a new gender identity law as the final straw, as it will prevent schools in the state from informing parents of their decision to change their name or pronouns. Mr Musk is estranged from his transgender daughter Vivian Henna Wilson, who applied to legally remove her fathers surname in 2022. Because of this law and the many others that preceded it, attacking both families and companies, SpaceX will now move its HQ from Hawthorne, California, to Starbase, Texas, he wrote in a post in July. I did make it clear to Governor Newsom about a year ago that laws of this nature would force families and companies to leave California to protect their children. The controversial billionaire has also moved his personal residence to Texas, which has more favourable tax laws compared to California. X employees currently based at the San Francisco headquarters will be moved to offices in San Jose and Palo Alto, according to Ms Yaccarinos internal memo. Mr Musk has previously indicated that the new headquarters of X will eventually be set up in Austin, Texas. New initiative in Hawaii could change the worlds carbon footprint HONOLULU (KHON2) A new innovative project which involves growing camelina sativa, a versatile oilseed plant, on farms across the Hawaiian Islands to produce renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is making big waves in farming in Hawaii. KHON2.com sat down with Chris Bennett, Vice President of Sustainable Energy Solutions at Pono Pacific, to discuss this groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming Hawaiis energy landscape. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You The project, in partnership with Par Hawaii, seeks to create a local source of biofuel feedstock for Pars refinery on Oahu. This initiative, now in the field trial phase, aims to reduce Hawaiis reliance on imported crude oil and cut carbon emissions significantly. A local solution for global problems Pono Pacific and Par Hawaiis collaboration on this biofuel project marks a significant step towards sustainability. Par Hawaii is currently retrofitting its refinery in Kapolei to handle biofuel feedstocks, with the goal of producing locally sourced biofuels by the end of 2025. The refining process for these biofuels is similar to traditional petroleum-based fuels, explained Bennett. The resulting products, like renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel, are drop-in fuels. This means they can be used in existing pipelines, engines, and transportation systems without any modifications. Economic impact for Hawaii This initiative promises substantial economic benefits for Hawaii. Bennett highlights the opportunity it presents for local farmers. Hawaii has a lot of fallow land that was once used for plantation agriculture, like pineapple and sugar cane, said Bennett. With crops like camelina, farmers can use this land to grow a rotational cover crop that complements food production rather than competing with it. By integrating camelina into their crop rotations, farmers can grow it alongside their primary food crops. This not only enhances soil health but also provides an additional revenue stream through the sale of camelina oil for biofuel production. This project offers a new economic avenue for local farmers, helping to boost the agricultural economy while supporting sustainable practices, added Bennett. Environmental benefits The environmental benefits of this project are manifold. Camelina-based jet fuel can reduce net carbon emissions by up to 80%, playing a crucial role in Hawaiis efforts to combat global warming. Hawaii has made significant progress in decarbonizing its electrical grid through rooftop solar and other adaptations, noted Bennett. However, the transportation fuel sector still lags behind. This project can make a big dent in our carbon emissions, particularly in aviation.. Moreover, camelina serves as an excellent cover crop, protecting soil from erosion, absorbing nutrients, and reducing nitrogen and phosphorus contamination of groundwater. It grows quickly, from seed to harvest in just four to five weeks, making it a highly efficient crop for sustainable agriculture. Addressing invasive species concerns Concerns about the introduction of non-native species are always paramount in Hawaii. Bennett assures that camelina has been rigorously tested and approved as a non-invasive species. The trials, conducted in collaboration with the state, have shown that camelina does not compete well with weeds and other plants in the wild, explained Bennett. It needs to be cultivated to thrive, meaning it wont spread uncontrollably. This careful consideration ensures that camelina can be integrated into local farming practices without threatening native ecosystems. Its meant to complement current food production, not compete with it. We see it as a way to enhance agricultural sustainability in Hawaii, added Bennett. Practical implications and future prospects The partnership between Pono Pacific and Par Hawaii aims to produce renewable fuels locally, making them accessible to all Hawaii residents and businesses. Par Hawaii, the states leading provider of refined petroleum products, has committed a $90 million investment to this project. This significant investment underscores the potential economic and environmental benefits for the islands. Eric Wright, President of Par Hawaii, expresses excitement about the projects progress. Locally produced sustainable aviation fuels will be a game-changer in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and helping to make our visitor industry more sustainable, stated Wright. This initiative aligns perfectly with our states goal of transitioning to 100% renewable energy by 2045. Pono Pacific, known for its commitment to conservation and sustainability, is expanding its impact through innovative projects like this one. The company manages over 25,000 acres of land across Hawaii and has been instrumental in restoring sensitive ecosystems and promoting indigenous species. Producing SAF locally will undoubtedly create jobs and revenue for rural communities, creating a more sustainable economy for Hawaii, said Bennett. This initiative represents a significant step forward in balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. With ongoing trials on four partner farms across Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island and Kauai, the future looks promising. Click here for more information on Pono Pacific. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8 As these trials progress and the refinery retrofit nears completion, Hawaii is poised to lead the way in sustainable aviation fuel production, setting a powerful example for the rest of the world. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Instead of competing for land, some farmers and solar developers want to work side by side Matt Riggs family has been farming in Urbana since 1874. But, his parents had to work second jobs to cushion themselves from the volatile corn and soybean markets that dominate Illinois agricultural sector. It quickly became clear that Riggs would also need to find another income stream if he wanted to keep the farm. He expects to lose $200 to $300 on each acre of corn this year, but a craft brewery he and his brother started is keeping the family farm afloat. In the past few years, Riggs has realized the land his family has worked for 150 years is also ideal for solar panels. Its flat, well-drained and gets lots of sunlight. As Illinois strives to convert 40% of its energy consumption to renewables by 2030 and 100% by 2050, solar installations are expected to increase by 1,700% over the next five years, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. Across the country, approximately 83% of new solar projects developed by 2040 will be installed on farm and ranch land, according to a 2022 American Farmland Trust analysis. But, broad, low-lying solar arrays are not inherently compatible with farming. They typically take land out of agricultural production. This doesnt have to be the case, however. An emerging field called agrivoltaics suggests shorter, shade-tolerant crops may grow well in the small spaces between panels. After installing solar panels at his brewery and seeing how reliable they were, Riggs wondered if he could use them to hedge his farms balance sheet. The sun is going to come up on average a certain amount of time so you can build a really stable, predictable financial model, which I looked at having grown up on a farm and was like Wow, thats awesome, said Riggs. Some Google searches led him to agrivoltaics. While there are very few agrivoltaic projects in Illinois, early research and small projects show synergies between solar energy and agriculture. The co-location of solar panels and agriculture could keep farmers in business, improve ecosystem health, feed the country and provide clean energy. Learning to speak the same language Agrivoltaics is a meeting of the minds between two groups that dont always look at the land the same way. This was on display at a recent farmer forum. He became bilingual and now speaks nature as well as technology, said Will Harris, a cattleman from southwest Georgia, of a developer he partnered with to graze sheep beneath solar panels. Riggs also received a roar of laughter and scoffs during the forum when he said a developer he had considered partnering with last year wouldnt give him first right of refusal on vegetation mowing and trimming plans. Riggs said he immediately stopped talking to the company, in disbelief that anyone would suggest they knew what was best for his familys land. You could offer me a trillion dollars an acre per year. Theres no scenario where me or my family would feel comfortable signing the contract, he said. One of the few Illinois farmers who still owns his farmland, hes passionate about maintaining control and is holding out for the right developer. But, many farmers dont have this luxury. Approximately 70% of farmland in Illinois is rented from landowners who often live in cities or out of state. When solar developers approach with decadeslong contracts that pay double or triple the going rate per acre, its hard for landowners to turn down the offers. A farmer whose yearly income is subject to fluctuating market demand cant compete. But, if farmers and solar companies can find a way to understand each other, a growing number of farmers like Riggs see solar energy as a potential safety net. They could make a passive income from the solar company leases while still raising products for the market. Opportunities and challenges The logo for the Solar Farm Summit hosted in Chicago a sheep overlaid on solar panels is emblematic of the work that must still be done for agrivoltaics to take off in Illinois. Sheep and solar panels pair well together. The sheep appreciate the shade from the panels and do a good job keeping the grasses low. But, there arent many sheep farmers in Illinois, and there isnt a large appetite for lamb products in the United States. Still, registration more than doubled at this Julys summit compared with the inaugural one last year, organizers said. On a 54-acre property called Solar Farm 2.0 in Champaign, University of Illinois researchers are exploring how row crops, which monopolize Illinois agricultural output, can coexist alongside solar panels. Their preliminary research suggests corn, which needs lots of sun and grows high, wont do well among solar arrays. But, shorter, more shade-tolerant crops such as soybeans, wheat, barley and hay may grow well in the small spaces between panels. In other parts of the country such as Arizona and Massachusetts, agrivoltaic farms are seeing promising yields of specialty groups such as tomatoes, basil and berries. In Saline County, 165 miles south of Solar Farm 2.0, the American Farmland Trust has partnered with solar developer Sol Systems to see if kernza, a hybrid wheat that improves soil health, might also grow well alongside solar panels in Illinois. However, as with sheep, there isnt a large demand for kernza among American consumers. Environmentalists have long questioned whether Illinois should be growing so much corn and soybeans in the first place. Theyre water-intensive, primarily used for biofuels and livestock feed rather than human consumption, and monocropping has degraded soil health, according to a study published by the National Academy of Sciences. You have food deserts all over the Midwest where farmers markets are about the only thing going in terms of getting produce there. Is there a way for us to rebuild some specialty crop supply at scale? posed Ethan Winter, director of the American Farmland Trusts Smart Solar division. The 12-person team only came about three years ago to explore the intersection of solar and agriculture. This is new territory. The passive income stream from solar arrays could give Illinois farmers the cushioning they need to diversify their harvests. For us to nurture this thing and grow it, it wont deliver massive profit year one. We may fall on our faces as were establishing these crops that are foreign to central Illinois, said Riggs, who is interested in experimenting with more direct-to-consumer products such as berries and flowers. The cool thing is agrivoltaics can mitigate that risk until were good at it. Agrivoltaics is also being pitched as a way to make farming more resilient to climate change. The solar panels could shield crops from the sun and storms as weather becomes more severe. As the climate changes, where we may have extreme heat and extreme precipitation, it may actually benefit plants to have some shade. So, its also very forward-looking research, said Madhu Khanna, director of the University of Illinois research project. Slowly warming up to solar Many Illinois farmers are on the defensive as they watch utility-scale, non-agrivoltaic solar projects pop up next to their fields. Last year, Illinois passed a zoning law that made any land approved for agricultural or industrial use also eligible for solar installations. Farmers have already had to adapt to an influx of windmills and raised concerns about carbon sequestration in recent years. It just seems like people are wanting to start a war right here in central Illinois over all of this green energy stuff, said Shane Gray, a first-generation farmer in Waverly, Illinois, whose farm is next to Double Black Diamond. At 4,100 acres, its the largest solar project east of the Mississippi and is expected to offset 70% of the electricity from the city of Chicagos municipal operations. The land was chosen because its near a transmission line, said Matt Birchby, president and co-founder of the project developer, Swift Current Energy. While he said the company is open to incorporating agrivoltaics into future plans, nothing will be farmed on this site, which is about the size of 11 family farms. If youre a landowner within a certain radius of a transmission line, youre either getting a letter in the mail or a knock on the door, said Alan Bailey, the Midwest solar specialist at American Farmland Trust. The Illinois Farm Bureau, which represents 3 of every 4 farmers in the state, is against putting solar projects on productive farmland. It advocates for placing them on abandoned brownfield sites, vacant lots and rooftops instead. But, projects on brownfields and former landfills tend to be smaller and more expensive because of land remediation costs, according to Anna Toenjes, associate vice president of impact at Sol Systems, a solar company experimenting with agrivoltaics in Illinois. Having the flexibility to develop projects on different types of land is really critical to achieving the scale needed to achieve the goals set on the federal and state levels, Toenjes said. Although solar panels are only projected to cover 1% of total farmland in the United States, the most productive farmland is most likely to be affected, according to the American Farmland Trust analysis. Historically, towns and cities were built next to the richest farmland. Transmission lines, which solar arrays must connect to, were subsequently built next to these highly populated areas, said the organizations President and CEO John Piotti. However, agrivoltaics is slowly catching on in rural Illinois. Earlier this month, Riggs county Farm Bureau sent his proposal to modify the organizations hardline stance against solar development to the state-level resolution committee. If approved, the Illinois Farm Bureau would support public funding for agrivoltaic projects. Policy will set the pace Ultimately, state and federal policy will set the pace of progress for agrivoltaics. Lightstar Renewables, a Boston-based solar developer, applied last month to construct Illinois largest commercial agrivoltaic project in Kane County. The fate of the 4.95 megawatt, 36-acre project, which is anticipated to provide enough energy to power 1,100 homes annually and grow hay and soybeans, is in the hands of the state government. The company found an interested landowner near a transmission line, worked with a local farmer to design an array he can grow beneath and between and successfully pushed the project through the county permitting process. Now, Lightstar is waiting to be accepted into Illinois Shines, a state-run solar incentive program that can cover up to 40% of the cost of a solar system. The program receives more applications than grid capacity, even after being allocated more megawatts under the Pritzker administrations 2021 Climate and Equitable Jobs Act. We anticipate it will be slow to actually get built and put into operation because of the timeline and capacity limits with Illinois Shines, said Cecelia Stephens, a development manager at Lightstar. While hopeful the Kane County project will be approved this year, the company plans to apply again in 2025 if it isnt. Illinois Shines is generally regarded as a national model of how states can support solar development, but Stephens said there is an opportunity for more weight to be given to agrivoltaic projects. Applications are evaluated with a points-based system. Currently, agrivoltaics only receives one point. For comparison, projects built on rooftops receive three points and projects built on brownfields receive two. If the Illinois Shines program could further incentivize or prioritize agrivoltatic projects, I think that would really be something that would help push us forward more quickly, said Stephens. She pointed to New York as an example of a state that has really invested in the new field. It just announced a grant program that will award up to $750,000 to agrivoltaic projects. Riggs would like to see Illinois Shines points-based system broken down even further to prioritize projects that will produce the highest agricultural output and create the most farming jobs. Given that solar farm leases typically last two to four decades, he feels an urgency to get agrivoltaic projects underway. Every day we dont have a tiered incentive structure to incentivize real, robust dual-use, theres another project going in thats going to be there for 25 years, and its a missed opportunity, he said. The U.S. Department of Energy and Department of Agriculture have put tens of millions of dollars into agrivoltaic research. Solar Farm 2.0 is funded under a $10 million USDA grant. There is also bipartisan support in Congress for further research into agrivoltaics. The Farm Bill introduced by House Republicans this May directs the agriculture department to study the impacts of and best practices for shared solar energy and agricultural production. Additionally, it tells the agriculture department not to fund any solar projects on prime farmland unless they incorporate agrivoltaics or have local government approval. The rise of agrivoltatics is a great reason why we need a new Farm Bill every five years, said Samantha Levy, conservation and climate policy manager at American Farmland Trust. Agrivoltaics was only beginning to be discussed in 2018, so it was not included in the last Farm Bill, which reached its five-year expiration date last year. After failing to come to a consensus, a divided Congress opted to extend the 2018 Farm Bill until this September. History suggests Congress will likely be in gridlock until after the presidential election in November and consequently extend the 2018 bill another year. With these federal delays and the backlogs at the state level, Riggs worries that family farmers will lose out on an opportunity to be a part of the clean energy transition and maintain their cherished livelihoods. If a project has real agricultural dual-use and was partnered with a small family farm, its the golden ticket for that family, said Riggs. Every one of these little community solar projects could literally sustain a family farm for the next generation. PHILADELPHIA (AP) A flight instructor charged with involuntary manslaughter for a crash that killed a student pilot in eastern Pennsylvania had surrendered his pilots certificate after two prior crashes with students aboard, prosecutors said in an indictment unsealed Monday. Philip Everton McPherson II, 36, of Haddon Township, New Jersey, was in command of the single-engine Piper PA-28 when it left Queen City Airport in Allentown with the student on Sept. 28, 2022, according to the indictment. He told the National Transportation Safety Board that he took control of the plane from the 49-year-old student just after takeoff, when they encountered engine problems, according to an NTSB report. PA man convicted for trying to broker the sale of unregistered machine guns The plane soon crashed and caught fire, killing the student, who was identified only by the initials K.K.. McPherson was seriously injured. According to federal prosecutors in Philadelphia, McPherson knew he was not competent to fly the plane for several reasons. First, he had twice been instructing students at Central Jersey Regional Airport in New Jersey when their plane veered off the runway during attempted landings, causing substantial damage in incidents prosecutors described as crashes. He then failed a certification exam and surrendered his pilots license in October 2021. He is also charged with 40 counts of illegally flying with passengers despite not having a pilots certificate after that date. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. McPherson pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released on bail, court records show. The charges carry a maximum potential sentence of 128 years in prison. His lawyer, public defender Jonathan McDonald, declined to comment on the case. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) The pilot of a Boeing 737 Max jet described the door flying off of his jet as an explosive experience in thousands of pages of new documents, released by the National Transportation Safety Board on Tuesday. Both the captain and the first officer lost their headsets, and the flight deck door blew open as the pilots scrambled to put on their oxygen masks and get the airplane on the ground, NTSB investigation documents said. In the back of the aircraft, flight attendants said they struggled to communicate with the flight deck crew. The new documents were released during the first day of the NTSBs two-day hearings about the door plug incident on Tuesday. This was quite traumatic to the crew and passengers, said Jennifer Homendy, the Chair of the NTSB. Investigators said the 737 left Boeings factory missing four bolts that were supposed to hold the door plug to the body of the aircraft. The NTSB said factory workers repaired another portion of the door plug but left the four bolts off. Spirit AeroSystems, a Boeing supplier, builds the fuselage and installed the door plug. The panel was taken off to repair rivets and when it was reinstalled, it was missing the four bolts. In Tuesdays hearing, the NTSB tried to drill down on the safety cultures of Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems, though Homendy grew frustrated with some of the answers. This is not a PR campaign for Boeing, Homendy said. What I want to know, what we want to know, is what happened. In interview transcripts from the NTSBs investigation into the Alaska Air door incident, a Boeing Door Master Lead said Boeings safety culture is Garbage. Nobodys accountable. Both Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems blamed the pandemic for a loss of skilled workers. Terry George, Senior Vice President at Spirit AeroSystems, said just 5% of factory workers had previously worked with sheet metal, compared to 95% five years ago. Weve gone from a two-week training to currently we have a six-to-eight-week training, George said. International Association of Machinists representative Lloyd Catlin said Boeing also needs to improve its training. There has been changes, but I dont know that its enough, Catlin said. The NTSB will hold a second round of hearings on Wednesday. NTSB representatives said they will not release final conclusions on the accident during the hearings. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Iran asks Russia for air defenses to prepare for potential war with Israel, NYT reports Iran has requested modern air defense systems from Russia as it prepares for a possible war with Israel, with deliveries already underway, the New York Times (NYT) reports on Aug. 5, citing undisclosed Iranian officials. Russia's National Security Council Secretary and former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu visited Tehran on Aug. 5 as the country allegedly prepares to retaliate against Israel for the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh on Iranian soil on July 31. Shoigu met with Iran's new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, the commander of the Iranian Armed Forces, Brigadier General Mohammad Bagheri, who is leading the planning of military strikes against Israel, and the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council. Two Iranian officials familiar with the war planning, one of whom is a member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, confirmed to NYT that Iran has asked Russia for air defense equipment. Russia has begun supplying modern radars and air defense equipment, according to the Iranian officials who spoke on the conditions of anonymity. Iranian state television showed Shoigu and Bagheri greeting each other, meeting face-to-face, and then participating in a larger meeting at the negotiating table with members of the Russian delegation and Iranian military officials. "We are ready for full cooperation with Iran on regional issues," Shoigu reportedly said. Bagheri also told Shoigu that the relationship between their nations was "deep, long-term, and strategic" and would only expand under Iran's new government, according to Iranian state media. Iran is one of Russia's closest allies on the international stage. The two countries have only deepened their military and political cooperation since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Notably, Iran has provided Russia with thousands of Shahed kamikaze drones since the start of the all-out war. In February, Reuters also reported that Tehran sent "a large number of powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missiles" to aid Moscow's invasion. Russia also has economic and cultural ties with Israel, as a large number of Russian Jews live there. But Moscow cannot afford to refuse to help Tehran because it relies heavily on Iranian drones in Ukraine, NYT said. Read also: Opinion: The global implications of Irans election Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Iran requests air defence from Russia to prepare for war with Israel, deliveries already underway NYT Iran has requested advanced air defence systems from Russia as it prepares for a possible war with Israel. The New York Times has reported that deliveries are already underway. Source: NYT Quote from NYT: "Two Iranian officials familiar with the war planning, one a member of the Revolutionary Guards Corps, confirmed that Iran has made the request and said Russia has started delivering advanced radars and air-defence equipment. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to discuss the aid publicly." Details: The New York Times noted that a senior Russian security official, former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, visited Tehran on 5 August. The visit happened while Iran has been preparing to retaliate against Israel for the assassination of a Hamas political leader on Iranian soil last week. Shoigu met with Iran's new President Masoud Pezeshkian, Brigadier General Mohammad Bagheri, who leads military strike planning against Israel, and the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council. "Mr. Shoigus visit underscores the close alliance between Iran and Russia, which has strengthened since the war in Ukraine started in 2022. Iran has provided Russia with military drones, and the two countries recently finalised an agreement to expand their military and intelligence cooperation." The New York Times emphasised. Iranian state television showed Shoigu and General Bagheri greeting each other, meeting face-to-face and then participating in a bigger meeting at a negotiation table with members of the Russian delegation and Iranian military officials. "We are ready for full cooperation with Iran on regional issues," Shoigu said (according to Iranian state media). General Bagheri told Shoigu that relations between their countries are "deep, long-term and strategic" and that they will only expand under the new Iranian government. The New York Times noted that Russia also has economic and cultural ties with Israel, as a large number of Russian Jews live there. But analysts say Moscow cannot afford to refuse Tehran's request for help, as it relies heavily on Iranian-made drones in Ukraine. Quote from Colin Clarke, director of policy and research at the Soufan Group, an intelligence and security consultancy: "If Iranians are asking Russians for air defence, they are cashing in their chips. The question is how do Russians assuage Tehran without ruining their relationship with Israel." Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has ordered a direct strike from Iran on Israel after Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in an explosion at his guest house while visiting Iran on the day of the new president's inauguration. Background: The day before, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto conveyed a warning from Iran about its readiness to attack Israel in a conversation with his Israeli counterpart Israel Katz. It was unofficially reported that the United States expects Iran to retaliate against Israel in connection with the assassination of one of the leaders of the Hamas group on Monday or Tuesday. The US has decided to send an aircraft carrier strike group, a fighter squadron and additional warships to the region. One of the leaders of the Palestinian group Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, was killed on the morning of 31 July in the Iranian capital. Support UP or become our patron! Iran Wants Its Israel Retaliation to Hurt But Not Start a Wider War (Bloomberg) -- Iran faces a dilemma over how to deliver a meaningful blow to Israel without prompting a war that could engulf the Middle East. Most Read from Bloomberg That challenge appears to be delaying an attack widely thought to be imminent days ago. Iran is stuck between a rock and a hard place, said Dina Esfandiary, a senior adviser on the Middle East and North Africa at the International Crisis Group. Its going to want to retaliate in a way thats significant enough to deter Israel from increasing the escalation spiral. But its not going to want to do something to prompt a regional war that will drag the US in. Iran has said it wants to punish Israel for last weeks assassination of a leading Hamas figure in Tehran, but not to the point of starting a region-wide war. Its emphasized the need to reestablish deterrence against its archenemy, which has neither confirmed nor denied being responsible for the death of Ismail Haniyeh. Sending a message of defiance Tuesday, Hamas named Yahya Sinwar, Israels top target and the mastermind behind the groups Oct. 7 assault, as its political leader to succeed Haniyeh. Irans Options Iran could choose to target military sites in Israel similar to the rocket and drone barrage it carried out in April. That did minimal damage, partly because the move was effectively telegraphed in advance, helping the Israeli air force shoot down the vast majority of projectiles with help from the US, UK, France and Jordan. Under pressure from the US, Israel responded with a limited strike on an Iranian airbase that meant tensions soon eased. Another option is to use Irans network of armed proxies including militias in Iraq, Lebanon-based Hezbollah and the Houthis in Yemen to hit Israel with missiles and drones. The aim would be to overwhelm Israels air defense capabilities and disrupt military and, potentially, civilian infrastructure, said Burcu Ozcelik, senior research fellow at Londons Royal United Services Institute. The assault could take place over a series of days. It might be hard to do so with real surprise, though. While ballistic missiles would take over 10 minutes to cover the 750 miles (1,200 kilometers) from Iran, cruise missiles and drones could take hours. Israel and its allies would probably have time to detect the threats and mount interception strikes. Within Iran, there was shock that Haniyeh, the Hamas political leader, was assassinated in the heart of Tehran in a government guesthouse. The Islamic Republic and its Axis of Resistance have no red lines when it comes to punishing Israel, Kayhan, a conservative Iranian newspaper, said on Tuesday in an editorial, referring to Tehrans network of non-state allies. Fears about a reprisal have prompted the US to send more fighter planes, warships and missiles to the region to back Israel. Theres been a surge of coordinated diplomatic activity involving Western and Arab officials. The Group of Seven and Qatar have reached out to Iran in a bid to temper its next move, Bloomberg reported on Monday. Jordans foreign minister made a rare visit to Tehran with a similar aim. All the diplomacy may result in a more calculated, limited response from Iran, according to Ozcelik. Risk of Miscalculation Middle East geopolitics have been upended since Oct. 7 when Hamas, listed as a terrorist organization by the US and and the European Union, swarmed into Israel from Gaza, killing some 1,200 people and taking 250 others hostage. Israels subsequent offensive has killed more than 40,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to health officials in the Hamas-run territory. The toll of scattered attacks continues to mount in the region. According to a US defense official, five American service members and two contractors were injured in a rocket attack on an airbase in Iraq on Monday. All seven are in stable conditions, the official said. As Iran contemplates its next step, the risk remains that a miscalculation, most likely from proxies taking their missile and drone attacks too far, will draw a much stronger counter attack from Israel. That could be hugely costly for a clerical leadership already experiencing high levels of dissent at home. They dont want to sleepwalk into a regional war that they cant win, Esfandiary said. --With assistance from Patrick Sykes, Ethan Bronner, Peter Martin and Omar Tamo. (Updates with new Hamas political leader, toll of strike in Iraq starting in fifth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Five American troops and two contractors were injured in a rocket attack on a U.S. base in Iraq on Monday, a defense official said. Two rockets struck Al-Asad Airbase in western Iraq around 2 p.m. EDT on Monday, according to the official. Five injured personnel are receiving care at the airbase and two have been evacuated for further care, but all seven are considered to be in stable condition, the official added. More details are expected. Its still not clear who was behind the attack, but it comes as tensions have soared in the Middle East. The U.S. and Israel are bracing for an Iranian attack following the death of top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week. Israel has not confirmed or denied the killing of Haniyeh, but Israeli forces acknowledged the assassination in Lebanon of top Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr, also last week. Both strikes are pushing the Middle East toward the brink of a larger war, which has boiled for months since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in October. Iran, which backs proxies in Iraq and Syria, has vowed publicly to respond to the death of Haniyeh. Iranian-backed militants attacked U.S. troops for months in Iraq and Syria, but halted attacks after massive American strikes in February. The U.S. strike earlier this year followed the death of three American troops at a base in Jordan after an Iranian proxy attack. Dozens of U.S. troops were injured in the Iranian-backed attacks that started last year. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Irvine Police shoot, kill former caregiver they say killed a paralyzed man The murder suspect that Irvine Police shot just after 3 a.m. Monday has died, the department confirmed. The shooting came after authorities were called to a residence on Whistling Swan at about 2:15 a.m. A caregiver at the home told police that she found her patient bloodied and unresponsive. The victim, who family told KTLA was paralyzed from the waist down and confined to a wheelchair after an accident, was determined to be stabbed to death inside the residence. Police identified him as 38-year-old John Alexander Bash III. Johnny Bash Outside the home, a gold Honda minivan had collided with the garage door, which granted the suspect access. A search for the minivans driver ensued. An officer found its registered owner in the area of Stonecreek South and West Yale Loop at about 3:15 a.m., as he was traveling on foot and wielding a knife. Police said the man raised the knife and approached the officer. At that point, the officer shot the man. He later died at a local hospital. He was identified as 47-year-old Aaron Matthew Shindle, who previously resided in Tampa, Florida. Shindle was a former caregiver for Bash, according to both police and Bashs family. No additional details were immediately made available. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. ISP investigates fatal crash in Crawford Co. HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) Indiana State Police and the Crawford County Sheriffs Office are investigating a fatal crash on Monday afternoon. Authorities say Camiren Etienne was driving southbound on State Road 37 when Brian Humphrey, driving northbound, allegedly crossed the center line and hit Etienne head-on. It is said Etienne died on the scene from her injuries, and Humphrey was airlifted to a hospital in Louisville. The reason Humphrey allegedly crossed over the center line is unknown at this time. This is an ongoing investigation. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). By Helen Reid, Mimosa Spencer PARIS (Reuters) -LVMH's second-largest fashion brand Dior was until last month behind on disclosures required by UK law about working conditions in its supply chain, and made outdated statements on its website of a third-party certification that it terminated more than a year ago, Reuters has found. In Britain, the Modern Slavery Act of 2015 requires companies with UK turnover of 36 million pounds ($46 million) or above to publish annual statements on their websites detailing the steps they are taking to combat forced labour in their business and supply chains globally. Until July 19, Dior's UK website showed an anti-slavery statement from 2020 and a sustainability certification that was no longer valid, a Reuters review of company filings showed. Dior, part of $345-billion conglomerate LVMH that is getting a global marketing boost as major sponsor to the Paris Olympics, has come under the spotlight after Italy's competition authority on July 17 said it was probing whether it and Italian label Armani had misled consumers over their commitment to craftsmanship and social responsibility following a judicial investigation that exposed potential sweatshop-like conditions at some Italian contractors. The investigation prompted Europe's top asset manager Amundi and other investors to ask LVMH to take more aggressive steps to monitor its suppliers' treatment of workers, these investors have told Reuters. Dior has condemned the illegal practices uncovered at some suppliers, said it had stopped working with them and that it was cooperating with authorities. Armani has expressed confidence in a "positive result following the investigation." Dior published a 2023 modern slavery statement after Reuters enquired on July 18 about its compliance with the UK regulation. The new document says it was approved by subsidiary Christian Dior UK's board on July 18. In its updated modern slavery statement, which is longer and more detailed than its 2020 one, the French brand said Christian Dior UK plans a training course to raise employees' awareness of modern slavery and to encourage them to take action if they suspect wrongdoing. "We have been preparing an up to date modern slavery statement, which...has now been published on our website," Dior said in a written statement on July 19 in reply to Reuters' inquiries about the anti-slavery disclosure. As of Aug. 5, Dior also had not published statements for 2021 and 2022. The company did not directly address Reuters questions about its missing statements. Story continues Although publishing the statements is mandatory by law, no company has been penalized for not complying, according to Sara Thornton, professor of modern slavery policy at the University of Nottingham's Rights Lab. Some lawmakers and rights groups are pushing for penalties to be introduced. In 2020, Britain's Home Office estimated that 83% of eligible organizations complied with the Modern Slavery Act. LVMH on July 19 said in an email to Reuters that its UK-based Dior subsidiary applies "group wide procedures concerning respect for human rights and addressing modern slavery risk in our business and supply chains." Another subsidiary, Parfums Christian Dior UK, has published British modern slavery statements for 2021, 2022 and 2023. LVMH Chief Financial Officer Jean-Jacques Guiony said in a call with analysts on July 23 the conglomerate was unaware of the alleged worker exploitation at the Dior suppliers in Italy, adding LVMH "accepted full responsibility for what happened." Guiony said LVMH would "intensify" controls over its supply chain, adding that it planned to strengthen audits and controls of its subcontractors. 'A CERTIFIED APPROACH' Until July 19, the sustainability page of Dior's website also featured the Butterfly Mark, a certification by luxury-focused sustainability audit firm Positive Luxury, which assesses companies on 23 environmental, social and governance issues. Above the Butterfly Mark logo, a statement titled "A Certified Approach" said Christian Dior Couture obtained the certification in 2021 "following a rigorous audit", adding that it "attests to the authenticity of its sustainability strategy". In June 2023 Dior, which was due to start its reassessment process, decided not to do so, CEO Amy Nelson-Bennett told Reuters on July 17. "Their Butterfly Mark certification and community membership was therefore terminated," she said. Brands are required to remove the certification mark within 90 days after deciding not to be reassessed, Nelson-Bennett said. Dior removed the certification mark and accompanying statement in July 2024. Approached by Reuters, Dior and LVMH did not respond to a request to comment on the certification and the logo on the website. Positive Luxury currently certifies, or is reviewing, roughly 170 brands, including LVMH-owned Belvedere Vodka. Its audit asks companies and brands to answer hundreds of questions on environmental, social and governance issues, including how much oversight a brand has on suppliers. Positive Luxury reassesses all the brands that it certifies every two years, adjusting its audit to keep up with new regulations, Nelson-Bennett said. Companies are gearing up for new European Union supply chain rules that require tighter audits of suppliers to mitigate human rights and environmental risks. ($1 = 0.7768 pounds) (Reporting by Helen Reid and Mimosa Spencer;Editing by Josephine Mason, Vanessa O'Connell and Lisa Jucca) Palestinians take control of an Israeli tank after crossing the border fence with Israel from Khan Yunis. The Israeli military on Tuesday confirmed that the last unaccounted for person from the October 7 attacks had died. Abed Rahim Khatib/dpa The Israeli military on Tuesday confirmed that the last unaccounted for person from the October 7 attacks had died. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that the family of Bilha Yinon, who had been officially listed as missing, had been informed that she was murdered in the massacres by Hamas militants and other extremists. The IDF said that an extensive search had been carried out to locate her, but that forensic evidence found at her home ultimately proved that she had died. The Israeli Foreign Ministry said that the 76-year-old was murdered alongside her husband Yaakov on October 7. Hamas militants used paragliders to invade the premises of the agricultural cooperative in southern Israel where Yinon lived with her husband. According to the Times of Israel, her house was burned down. Some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed on October 7 while around 250 people were taken hostage and transferred to Gaza. Supporters raise their fists and cheer as they watch a speech given by Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on a screen during a ceremony to commemorate the death of top commander Fouad Shukur, who was killed by an Israeli airstrike last week, in Beirut, Lebanon, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Mustafa Jamalddine) The Palestinian militant group Hamas said Tuesday it has chosen Yahya Sinwar, its top official in Gaza who masterminded the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, as its new leader. The choice of the hardliner was a defiant move by Hamas, whose political leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Iran last week in a presumed Israeli strike. Meanwhile, at least 19 people including six soldiers were wounded in northern Israel on Tuesday after Lebanons Hezbollah militants launched drone attacks, emergency officials said, as world leaders try to stop tensions in the Middle East from boiling over into a regional war. Most of the people were hurt by an Israeli interceptor rocket that missed and hit the ground. Local authorities issued sweeping new guidelines in northern Israel for all residents to avoid all non-vital activity and to stay near a safe area until further notice. Israel and Hezbollah have exchanged near-daily strikes for the past 10 months during the war in Gaza. Efforts continue around the region to prevent the war from becoming a wider conflict after the killings last week of a senior Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and Hamas top political leader in Iran. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told his Cabinet over the weekend that Israel is already in a multi-front war with Iran and its proxies. Inside Gaza, the only corridor for humanitarian aid to enter the south has been shut down because of fighting in the area. The Palestinian territory faces a severe humanitarian crisis as its Health Ministry says the death toll in the war approaches 40,000. ___ Heres the latest: Hamas' new political leader has the power to ensure that a cease-fire deal is reached, Blinken says WASHINGTON Reacting to Yahya Sinwar, the mastermind of the Oct. 7 attack, becoming Hamas' new political leader, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Sinwar has the power to ensure that a cease-fire deal is reached. Sinwar has been and remains the primary decider when it comes to concluding the cease-fire, and so I think this (todays announcement) only underscores the fact that its really on him to decide whether to move forward with a cease-fire that manifestly will help so many Palestinians in desperate need, women, children, men who are caught in a crossfire," Blinken said. "... It really is on him. U.S. sends Navy fighter jets to a base in the Middle East to help protect Israel WASHINGTON About a dozen F/A-18 fighter jets from the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier have flown to a military base in the Middle East, as part of the Pentagons effort to help defend Israel from possible attacks by Iran and its proxies and to safeguard U.S. troops, according to a U.S. official. The F/A-18s and a E-2D Hawkeye surveillance aircraft took off from the carrier in the Gulf of Oman and arrived at the undisclosed base on Monday, said the official. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered the increased military presence in the region as officials worry about escalating violence in the Middle East in the wake of the killings last week of a senior Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and Hamas top political leader in Iran, in suspected Israeli strikes. Both groups are backed by Iran. The Navy jets land-based deployment is expected to be temporary, because a squadron of Air Force F-22 fighter jets is enroute to the same base from their home station in Alaska. The roughly dozen F-22s are expected to arrive in the Middle East in the coming days, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss troop movements. Its not clear how long all of the aircraft will remain together at the base, and that may depend on what if anything happens in the next few days. ___ Associated Press writer Lolita Baldor in Washington contributed to this report. Israeli Olympians receive threats in Paris PARIS Israels Olympic team said some athletes have received threats as they compete in Paris amid larger tensions over Palestinian deaths during the war in Gaza and the threat of a wider regional conflict in the Middle East. Yael Arad, president of the Israeli National Olympic Committee, told The Associated Press on Tuesday that team members had received centralized threats meant to generate psychological terror in athletes, without giving further details. Last week, Paris prosecutors opened an investigation into emailed death threats to Israeli athletes, and the national cybercrime agency is looking into the leak of some Israeli athletes personal data online, which has since been taken down. Prosecutors also launched an inquiry into inciting racial hated after Israeli athletes received discriminatory gestures during an Israel-Paraguay match. Tom Reuveny, a 24-year-old Israeli athlete who won a gold in wind surfing over the weekend, was among those who said hes received threats. Politics should be put aside during the Games, he told AP during a memorial Tuesday for 11 Israeli athletes killed during the 1972 Olympics in Munich, Germany. Israel confirms the death of the only person who was still missing from the Oct. 7 attack The Israeli military announced on Tuesday that it had confirmed the death of the only person still considered missing from the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel. The army said it had officially informed the family of Bilha Ynon that she was not alive, after a committee of health experts, IDF and police officials and Israels chief rabbi had determined that she was murdered on Oct. 7. The conclusion followed an extensive investigative effort and testing of new evidence found in the area of Ynons home in the community of Netiv Haasara, the army said. The Hamas border attack that triggered the ongoing Gaza war killed 1,200 people and saw some 250 others taken hostage, 110 of which are still held in Gaza. Over a third of the hostages in captivity are believed to be dead. Israeli says it rema ins committed to killing Hamas' new political leader JERUSALEM The Israeli militarys chief spokesperson said Israel remains committed to killing Yahya Sinwar, in response to news about his election as leader of Hamas political bureau. There is only one place for Yahya Sinwar, and it is beside Mohammed Deif and the rest of the October 7th terrorists, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said in an interview with Saudi news channel Al-Arabiya. Israel said it killed Deif, the head of Hamas military wing, in a huge strike in southern Gaza last month. Hamas has not confirmed Deif's death. Sinwar, who is Hamas chief in Gaza, is considered along with Deif to be the chief architect of the deadly Oct. 7, on southern Israel, the act that sparked the Israel-Hamas. Since then, Israel has repeatedly vowed to kill him. Yahya Sinwar is a terrorist, who is responsible for the most brutal terrorist attack in history October 7th, Hagari said during the interview with Al-Arabiya. Hamas' new leader is Yahya Sinwar, the mastermind of the Oct. 7 attacks BEIRUT The Palestinian militant group Hamas said Tuesday it has chosen Yahya Sinwar, its top official in Gaza who masterminded the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, as its new leader. The choice of Sinwar, a secretive figure who leads Hamas hardliners and is close to Iran, was a defiant step. Sinwar is at the top of Israels kill list as it seeks to destroy Hamas and its leadership after the Oct. 7 attack in which militants killed 1,200 people in southern Israel and took about 250 as hostages. Hamas said in a statement it named Sinwar as the new head of its political bureau to replace Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Iran last week in a presumed Israeli strike. Unlike Haniyeh, who had lived in exile in Qatar for years, Sinwar has remained in Gaza. As Hamas leader in the territory since 2017, he rarely appeared in public but kept an iron grip on Hamas rule. Close to the armed wing, known as the Qassam Brigades, he worked to build up the groups military capabilities. Sinwar has been in deep hiding since the Oct. 7 attacks, while Israel unleashed its campaign in Gaza and the death toll among Palestinians, now near 40,000, rose. Biden and Egypt's El-Sisi speak about final stage of negotiations U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Tuesday about their hopes of calming tensions in the Middle East through a cease-fire and hostage release deal. In a statement, the White House said negotiations have now reached a final stage, and that Biden and El-Sisi agreed on the urgency of bringing the process to closure as soon as possible. Israeli airstike on house in central Gaza kills 3, injures 20 others DEIR AL-BALAH, GAZA Three Palestinian men were killed and 20 other people were injured late Tuesday afternoon after an Israeli airstrike hit a house in Deir al-Balah in central Gaza. The chaotic scene at Al-Aqsa hospital where the victims were taken showed an injured man taken out of an ambulance on a stretcher and crowds inside the hospital where one man with apparent severe injuries to the arms and legs laid on a stretcher. Several people could be seen using a blanket to transfer one wounded person. An injured woman and child were also taken inside the hospital. Ambulances continued to transfer victims of the strike to Al-Aqsa hospital, including one man whose body was almost completely bloodied. Inside the hospital morgue, all three men laid on the floor as their loved ones bid them farewell. Footage by the Associated Press showed massive destruction where the house was struck with several buildings also being severely damaged. Egypt working with China to reduce tensions in the Middle East CAIRO Egyptian foreign minister Badr Abdelatty on Tuesday told his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi over the phone that efforts are being exerted to reduce tensions in the Middle East amid Israels ongoing war in Gaza. Abdelatty also warned against the risks of an expanded conflict that could destabilize the region and its security, according to a statement released by the Egyptian foreign ministry. The Egyptian minister confirmed during his call that Egypt is collaborating with China as well as regional and international leaders to stop the bloodshed in the Gaza Strip. He also pointed out that Israels policy of political assassinations and violations of states sovereignty has worsened the crisis and significantly increased regional tension. Palestinians in Gaza still struggling to get food and clean water KHAN YOUNIS, GAZA Palestinians in Gaza are still struggling to secure food and clean water for their families as Israel continues to restrict the entry of life-saving aid. Children in Khan Younis have to line up for a long time to get food at charity kitchens and fill up 10 liters (2.6 gallons) of water in plastic containers hardly enough for large families. Water has become severely scarce in Gaza after water wells across the enclave were destroyed in Israeli airstrikes. Life here is unbearable, Ghalia Hamouda, a woman displaced from Beit Lahiya, told The Associated Press. There is no water. We dont have charity kitchens. Our children have been sick all day and stomach cramps never go away." A woman from a displaced family cooked white beans in thin tomato sauce over a basic stove as seven relatives gathered around to eat two plates of the beans with pieces of bread. My son is young. He runs a distance of around 2 kilometers to reach a charity kitchen to get food and sometimes he comes back with only his tears and hes empty-handed because he couldnt get his turn in line to get food, Rafat Abed Al-Dayem said. Al-Dayem said his family gets around 20 liters to 40 liters (5.3 to 10.5 gallons) of not drinkable water: We only drink it because we are thirsty. Last month, UN experts declared that famine has spread throughout the Gaza Strip as they reported cases of malnutrition and dehydration. Were deprived from everything, including aid which we dont see. Where is the humanitarian aid? said Rahaf Al-Refi, a woman displaced from Gaza City. Hezbollah vows to retaliate against Israel for Beirut airstrike BEIRUT The leader of Lebanons militant Hezbollah group vowed to retaliate against Israel for its recent airstrike in Beirut that killed a top commander, no matter what the consequences are. Hassan Nasrallah said Hezbollah could either act unilaterally or in unity with its allies in the so-called axis of resistance that includes Iran and its proxies in Iraq, Yemen and Syria. Tension has been rising in the Middle East since last weeks attacks in which a top military commander Fouad Shukur was killed in Beirut and a Hamas political leader was killed in Iran. Israel said it killed Shukur but did not claim or deny the rocket attack that killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was visiting Tehran. The Israelis chose escalation by carrying out assassinations, Nasrallah said. He said Hezbollah will not be silent regarding the Beirut airstrike. He added that Israel has been on high alert since last week while waiting for Hezbollahs retaliation, adding that making them wait is part of the punishment. Shortly before Nasrallah gave his speech, Israeli warplanes flew over Beirut twice Tuesday afternoon, shaking buildings and increasing anxiety among the capitals residents. It came two days after the Lebanese marked the fourth anniversary of the massive port blast in Beirut that killed more than 200 people, wounded thousands and caused wide destruction. At least 19 hurt in northern Israel after Hezbollah launches drone strikes NAHARIYA, Israel At least 19 people including six soldiers have been wounded in northern Israel after Lebanons Hezbollah militants launched drone attacks, emergency officials said. Most were hurt by an Israeli interceptor rocket that missed and hit the ground. The attack did not appear to be linked to Hezbollahs vow to avenge the killing of one of its top commanders in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut last week, which has raised fears of an all-out war. Still, local authorities issued sweeping new guidelines in northern Israel for all residents to avoid all non-vital activity and to stay near a safe area until further notice. Tuesdays strikes appeared to be part of the near-daily exchanges of fire across the Israeli-Lebanon border. Hezbollah says its rocket and drone barrages since the start of the war in Gaza are an act of solidarity with the Palestinians. An Israeli airstrike earlier Tuesday killed four people in southern Lebanon, according to Lebanese authorities. Hezbollahs drones targeted sites near the coastal town of Nahariya, the military said. It said an interceptor missed its target in one case, falling and injuring a number of people. The Nahariya Medical Center said 12 people were hurt in that incident, including one seriously. Seven others were injured in another drone strike, the center said. Hezbollah said it targeted Israeli army bases after an Israeli strike Monday killed a lower-level commander in southern Lebanon. Ultra-Orthodox protesters enter Israeli military base, objecting to draft order JERUSALEM Ultra-Orthodox protesters have jumped barriers and broken through fences to storm an Israeli military recruitment base in another demonstration against their impending enlistment. A landmark Supreme Court order said young religious men must begin enlisting for military service. Under long-standing political arrangements, ultra-Orthodox men had been exempt from the draft that is compulsory for most Jewish men. In videos aired on Hebrew media, at least a dozen men could be seen wandering through the woods at the base. Others could be seen scuffling with police on horseback. Israeli police said 21 people were arrested and three policemen were injured. The military condemned the violent behavior and called the enlistment of ultra-Orthodox an operational necessity. Hezbollah launches drone attack in northern Israel, wounding at least 7 NAHARIYA, Israel Lebanons Hezbollah launched a drone attack Tuesday on northern Israel, wounding at least seven people, in response to the killing of one of its fighters in an Israeli airstrike. The attack did not appear to be linked to Hezbollahs vow to avenge the killing of one of its top commanders in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut the previous week, which has raised fears of an all-out war. Hezbollah has launched near-daily drone and rocket attacks since the start of the Gaza war in what it says is an act of solidarity with the Palestinians. Israel has responded with airstrikes, one of which killed four people in southern Lebanon earlier Tuesday, according to Lebanese authorities. Hezbollah said it launched a drone attack targeting army bases in northern Israel in retaliation for the killing of a lower-level commander in a strike late Monday. Gal Zaid, spokesperson for Galilee Medical Center, said it was treating one severely wounded person and four others with mild injuries. Israels Magen David Adom rescue service said it was treating seven wounded in three locations in Western Galilee. The Israeli military said a number of drones entered from Lebanon, one of which was intercepted. It said several civilians were wounded near the coastal town of Nahariya, some 6 kilometers (4 miles) south of the border, without giving a precise number. The only humanitarian air corridor into southern Gaza is shut down JERUSALEM The only corridor for humanitarian aid to enter southern Gaza has been shut down, apparently because of fighting in the area. The Israeli military said the humanitarian route leading from the crossing into the city of Rafah was closed Tuesday until further notice after anti-tank missiles were fired at troops and multiple soldiers were wounded. It said the Kerem Shalom crossing was open. Hamas armed wing said it attacked an Israeli tank in the area. It is not possible to confirm battlefield reports in Gaza. The Palestinian territory has been plunged into a severe humanitarian crisis in the war ignited by Hamas Oct. 7 attack into Israel. The vast majority of Gazas population of 2.3 million have been displaced by the fighting, often multiple times, and hundreds of thousands are sheltering in crowded, squalid tent camps. International experts said in June that Gaza was at high risk of famine. Aid groups say efforts to bring in desperately needed food and supplies have been hindered by Israeli restrictions, ongoing fighting and the breakdown of law and order. An Israeli strike on a village in south Lebanon kills 4, Health Ministry says BEIRUT Lebanons Health Ministry says an Israeli airstrike on a village in the countrys south killed four people. The ministry said Tuesdays airstrike targeted a home in the village of Maifadoun near the market town of Nabatiye. It was not immediately clear if the dead were civilians or militants. Since early October, Hezbollah began attacking Israeli military posts along the border calling it a backup front for their Palestinian allies in the Gaza Strip. Since then, more than 500 people have been killed in Lebanon, including around 90 civilians. On the Israeli side, 22 soldiers and 24 civilians have been killed. An Israeli officer is stabbed on the outskirts of Jerusalem, Israeli police say JERUSALEM Israeli police say a stabbing at a checkpoint on the outskirts of Jerusalem lightly wounded one Border Police officer. Police said that the attack occurred after Israeli officers at the checkpoint asked passengers to disembark from a bus for what it called a routine check. One of the passengers then stabbed a Border Police officer with a screwdriver. Military Police immediately shot and killed the attacker, police said without identifying the assailant. Israels rescue services said the 20-year-old female officer wounded in the attack was fully conscious and was being transferred to the hospital. Violence has surged in the occupied West Bank since Hamas Oct. 7 attack triggered the war in Gaza. More than 600 Palestinians have been killed, mostly in military raids, gun battles between the army and militants, and violent protests. Palestinians have carried out a number of attacks against Israelis, including stabbings at checkpoints. 10 Palestinians are killed and 10 wounded in Israeli raids in the West Bank RAMALLAH, West Bank Palestinian officials say 10 Palestinians were killed, including four teenagers, and another 10 were wounded by Israeli fire during military raids and operations across the north of the occupied West Bank. The Palestinian Health Ministry said Tuesday that four people, including two 19-year-olds and a 14-year-old, were killed in an overnight raid in the village of Aqaaba in the northern West Bank. It said another four people, including an 18-year-old, were killed in an Israeli strike on a vehicle in Jenin a frequent flashpoint where the Islamic Jihad militant group said its fighters were battling the army. Meanwhile two more Palestinians were shot dead by Israeli forces in the village of Kafr Qud, near Jenin, later Tuesday, the ministry said. Israel's military said it eliminated four terrorists with an airstrike in the Jenin area and that it and border police eliminated seven others it said threw explosive devices at security forces or tried to plant explosives. It said a soldier was injured during the operation. Israel has carried out near-daily military raids across the West Bank since Hamas Oct. 7 attack. Palestinians from the West Bank have carried out a number of attacks on Israelis. The Health Ministry says over 600 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank since the start of the war. Most were killed during military arrest raids and violent protests. Israel captured the West Bank, along with Gaza and east Jerusalem, in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians want all three territories for their future state. The 3 million Palestinians in the West Bank live under seemingly open-ended Israeli military rule, with the Western-backed Palestinian Authority exercising limited control over population centers. Over 500,000 Jewish settlers, who live in scores of settlements across the territory that most of the international community views as illegal or illegitimate, have Israeli citizenship. Australia's prime minister condemns Iranian ambassador's comments on social media as abhorrent SYDNEY Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday condemned as abhorrent an Iranian ambassadors social media comment on Israel. Albanese said ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi had been called in for a meeting with Australias Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade officials over his recent post on the social media platform X. Sadeghi cites Hamas spiritual leader Ahmed Yassin advocating that wiping out the Zionist plague out of the holy lands of Palestine happens no later than 2027. Sadeghi added: Looking forward to such a heavenly & divine promise Inshaa-Allah. The Arabic expression means if God wills. Albanese told reporters: I make it clear: Theres no place for the sort of comments that were made online on social media by the Iranian ambassador. Theyre abhorrent. And they are hateful, they are antisemitic and they have no place, Albanese added. Asked by a reporters if the ambassador should be expelled from Australia, Albanese did not directly answer. The Iranian Embassy in Australia later told The Associated Press in an email that Sadeghis post has nothing to do with Jewish People, anti-Semitism or raising hate speech or violent ways. Insights from The Washington Post, Bloomberg, and The National Aug 6, 2024, 7:34am EDT Middle East The News Israel is becoming increasingly isolated among its neighbors and allies, as the Middle East moves closer to a full-scale regional war. The UK has reportedly suspended its arms export licenses to Israel as the new Labour government reviews its policies, and Egypt is taking a harder stance against Israel than it has in recent months. Diplomats are scrambling to avert a crisis, and foreign ministers from several Islamic nations are set to meet in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday as they attempt to stem the fallout of the killings of senior Hamas and Hezbollah commanders on Iranian and Lebanese soil. SIGNALS Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories. US, Israel on standby for Iranian retaliation as White House urges ceasefire Sources: The Washington Post, Bloomberg The United States and its allies are bracing for what could be an imminent retaliation from Iran against Israel for the killing of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Washington warned that Iranian strikes could come on Tuesday, and it has moved forces into the region in preparation of a possible attack. Meanwhile, the White House is doubling down on requests for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government to accept a ceasefire agreement, widely viewed as the best route to easing tensions in the region. Regional actors shun Israel Source: The National Egypt has rejected a request from Israel to provide intelligence about an anticipated Iranian attack. On Monday, officials in Cairo said that in the event of a strike on Israel, it would only defend its own land and maritime borders, The National reported, citing sources familiar with the discussions. Relations between Israel and Egypt have deteriorated as the formers war in Gaza has dragged on: In May, Israel captured the Philadelphi corridor, a buffer zone between the Gaza Strip and Egypt. It has also restricted humanitarian supplies from entering the Palestinian enclave via the crucial Rafah crossing. We made it clear that we remain very angry over the Rafah crossing and the Philadelphi corridor, one source told the outlet. Palestinian prisoners released by the Israeli army arrive at the Al-Aqsa Hospital for medical examination. Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa The Israeli human rights organization Betselem has accused Israel of systematically torturing Palestinian prisoners in its prisons. A report released on Tuesday entitled "Welcome to Hell" contains testimonies from 55 ex-Palestinian prisoners the group interviewed. Some describe severe abuse and violence. More than 9,600 Palestinians were recently held in Israeli prisons, around half of them without official charges, the report said. The Israeli military said it is currently investigating allegations of serious sexual abuse of a Palestinian militant by soldiers in the Sde Teiman military camp in southern Israel. The UN Human Rights Office recently announced that at least 53 people had died in Israeli custody. "The testimonies presented in this report provide an account of how Israeli prison facilities have been turned into a network of torture camps," the report said. The report said "such spaces, in which every inmate is intentionally condemned to severe, relentless pain and suffering, operate as de-facto torture camps. "The abuse consistently described in the testimonies of dozens of individuals held in different facilities was so systematic, that there is no room to doubt an organized declared policy of the Israeli prison authorities," Betselem wrote. This policy was implemented under the orders of far-right Police Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and with the full support of the Israeli government and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the authors said. The unprecedented terrorist attack by the Palestinian militant Hamas group and others on Israel on October 7 had deeply traumatized Israeli society and are "evoking deep-seated fears and an instinct for revenge among many," Betselem wrote. The right-wing religious government has used this to "press harder with applying their racist ideology, using the oppressive mechanisms at their disposal." Betselem is a donation-funded Israeli human rights group that campaigns against the occupation of the Palestinian territories and for equal rights for Jews and Palestinians. An Israeli army spokesman said the allegations were being investigated. A spokeswoman for the Israeli Prison Authority said all prisoners were being held in accordance with the law and their basic rights were being upheld. The allegations made by Betselem had not been officially communicated to the authority "and to our knowledge they have no basis whatsoever." However she said since the beginning of the Gaza war 10 months ago, the conditions of detention of so-called security prisoners had been tightened on the instructions of Ben-Gvir. Palestinian prisoners released by the Israeli army are taken to Al-Aqsa Hospital for medical examination. Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa Palestinian prisoners released by the Israeli army arrive at the Al-Aqsa Hospital for medical examination. Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa The Israeli human rights organization Betselem has accused Israel of systematically torturing Palestinian prisoners in its prisons. A report released on Tuesday entitled "Welcome to Hell" contains testimonies from 55 ex-Palestinian prisoners the group interviewed. Some describe severe abuse and violence. More than 9,600 Palestinians were recently held in Israeli prisons, around half of them without official charges, the report said. The Israeli military said it is currently investigating allegations of serious sexual abuse of a Palestinian militant by soldiers in the Sde Teiman military camp in southern Israel. The UN Human Rights Office recently announced that at least 53 people had died in Israeli custody. "The testimonies presented in this report provide an account of how Israeli prison facilities have been turned into a network of torture camps," the report said. The report said "such spaces, in which every inmate is intentionally condemned to severe, relentless pain and suffering, operate as de-facto torture camps. "The abuse consistently described in the testimonies of dozens of individuals held in different facilities was so systematic, that there is no room to doubt an organized declared policy of the Israeli prison authorities," Betselem wrote. This policy was implemented under the orders of far-right Police Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and with the full support of the Israeli government and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the authors said. The unprecedented terrorist attack by the Palestinian militant Hamas group and others on Israel on October 7 had deeply traumatized Israeli society and are "evoking deep-seated fears and an instinct for revenge among many," Betselem wrote. The right-wing religious government has used this to "press harder with applying their racist ideology, using the oppressive mechanisms at their disposal." Palestinian prisoners released by the Israeli army arrive at the Al-Aqsa Hospital for medical examination. Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa Well thats confusing. J.D. Vance delivered a rally speech Tuesday in Pennsylvania with a backdrop that made it appear he was campaigning for his arch nemesis, Kamala Harris. The unfortunate signage appeared to stem from the events advance team not accounting for its crowd blocking half of a gigantic poster that sat directly behind Vance, which appeared to read in full, KAMALA CHAOS. For those watching on Fox News and other broadcasts, however, the only words clearly visiblein white text on a blue background, in all capswas simply Kamala. The apparent gaffe quickly went viral on X, where many joked that Harris VP choice in Tim Walz, which was announced just prior to Vances rally speech, had convinced Trumps running mate to switch teams. While the backdrop may have been confusing to someone watching Vances speech on mute, the Ohio Senator made clear in his statements that hes still no fan of the vice president he once suggested was a childless cat lady. Kamala Harris has been such a disastrous vice president of this country that everywhere she goes, chaos and uncertainty follow, he said, leaning into what his backdrops full text read. It appears the Trump campaign may be attempting to link Harris to the word chaos in the same way Democrats, starting with Walz himself, began characterizing Trump, Vance, and the MAGA movement as weird. Meet Tim Walz, Harris VP Pick Who First Called Trump Weird WHYY, a local NPR station in Philadelphia, reported that Vances rally had about 200 attendees, which included local Republican leadership from around Philadelphia. Fox 29 reported that Vance said he genuinely feels bad for Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro after he didnt get the VP nod, claiming he distanced himself from his Jewish faith in recent weeks. I genuinely feel bad that for daysmaybe even weeksthe guy actually had to run away from his Jewish heritage, Vance said. I think thats scandalous and disgraceful. Vances rally turnout is expected to be much less than a later event by Harris and Walz, which is expected to have an estimated 10,000 in attendance in the same city, campaign officials said. Videos from outside the rally showed hundreds of supporters standing in line hours before its set to begin at 5:30 p.m. local time. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. J.D. Vance showed up in Philadelphia on Tuesday ahead of Kamala Harris, slamming her as a disaster who has avoided doing press events and painting her newly announced running mate, Tim Walz, as a radical lefty. Tim Walz was the guy who let rioters burn down Minneapolis and Kamala Harris was the one who bailed the rioters out of jail, Vance said before a crowd of about 150 supporters before taking reporters questions. Seeking to portray Democrats as flakey, he hinted the party could pull yet another last-minute switcheroo. Kamala Has Picked a Winning Strategy With Weird I dont even know if were going to get Tim Walz out of this campaign, Vance said. Vance said he nonetheless called Walz to offer his congratulations and that he planned to debate the Midwestern governor. Apart from that courtesy, he quickly went on the attack, saying, Kamala Harris has bent the knee to the far left wing of her party, which is what she always does. The Trump campaign itself hit the Minnesota governor hard on Tuesday morning, labeling him dangerously liberal. Vance suggested Harris didnt select Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro as her running mate because of antisemitism. I genuinely feel bad, about what happened to Shapiro, Vance told the Philadelphia crowd. The fact that that race, the vice presidential race on the Democratic side, became so focused on his ethnicity, I think is absolutely disgraceful. The comments came in response to questions from reporters, who Vance called the fake news yet graciously allowed them a few questions. He drew a contrast between himself and the vice president, accusing her of being unavailable to the media while the Trump campaign goes everywhere. For sixteen days and counting, the American media has been unable to ask her a question, Vance said. We will answer any question because we think we owe it to the American people to try to persuade them instead of running from them. Framed by screens declaring Kamala Chaos, the Republican VP contender blasted Harris policy record and introduced everyday Americans who have been affected by opioid addiction. It is normal people who suffer when Kamala Harris refuses to do her job, Vance said. A Secret Service agent told the Daily Beast he believed the event was limited to invited guests. Outside the venue, one vendor hawked Trump merchandise while a smattering of protestors criticized the small crowd size and reminded Vance of his recent viral labels and memes. One held up a sign that read: Hey J.D. The Couch Didnt Consent. Weirdo. Indeed, less than a month after an assassination attempt against Donald Trump, police cars appeared to outnumber members of the public as the show went on inside. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. A globetrotting Jack White made a hometown pit stop Monday night and refueled with a blast of Detroit rock energy. Inside a packed Saint Andrews Hall, playing for 1,000 in a show that was announced just last week, White was joined by drummer Patrick Keeler (the Raconteurs), keyboardist Bobby Emmett (the Sights) and longtime friend-bassist Dominic Davis for a raw and special homecoming visit. Aside from the occasional private gigs he has staged at his Third Man Records store in the Cass Corridor, it was the most intimate Detroit show the ex-White Stripe has performed in years. For the lucky fans on hand who had quickly snatched up what abruptly became one of the summers hottest concert tickets it was a chance to catch the usual guitar heroics and rock abandon up close and in the face. Jack White performs for a crowd of about 1,000 in his first-ever show at Detroit's Saint Andrew's Hall, on Aug. 5, 2024. Man, Ive seen so many shows in this room, but Ive never really played here, White said early on. It was all in the service of No Name, Whites sixth and latest solo album, which provided about a third of Mondays set list alongside music from the White Stripes, Raconteurs and past solo efforts. The albums summer mini-tour had White and the band in South Korea over the weekend and off to Scandinavia this week. Detroit sat somewhere in the middle of that 10,600-mile trip. The no-frills Saint Andrews visit was in keeping with the organic rollout of the new record, which was surreptitiously released in July when unidentified vinyl copies were slipped into the bags of customers at his Third Man shops in Detroit, Nashville and London. No Name got its official digital and physical release two weeks later. Friends and family in the Saint Andrews balcony Monday included Whites 93-year-old mom, Teresa Gillis, who got an affectionate reception from the crowd when he pointed her out from the stage. And White drew knowing laughs when he introduced the Stripes chestnut Hotel Yorba by referring to his 2022 concert at the Masonic Temple Theatre, which included an onstage proposal and wedding with Olivia Jean. I've gotta be careful when I play this song because last time in Detroit I ended up getting married it after it," he said. The new Old Scratch Blues kicked things off with plenty of room for Whites improv guitar jams, followed by the warm groove of Thats How Im Feeling, with an audience call-and-response that showed fans were well-acquainted with the latest songs. Thats my town right there! White said. Archbishop Harold Holmes and Whats the Rumpus? made for a playful pairing of new material late in the regular set, while Its Rough on Rats (If Youre Asking) demonstrated that No Name just might be Whites most cohesive, distinct collection of riffs since he embarked on a solo career. Jack White performs at Saint Andrew's Hall in Detroit on Aug. 5, 2024. There was a loose, unfettered vibe to the evening, and White appeared to be calling audibles to his bandmates throughout. Love Interruption launched a darker section that had a bare-knuckle cover of the Stooges I Wanna Be Your Dog sandwiched by the White Stripes old Son House tribute Cannon for a one-two shot of Michigan menace. (Another local nod would come later, when White unearthed Keep on Trash by the late, great Detroit band the Go, with whom hed done a brief tenure in the late 90s.) A reliably hot and gnarled Ball and Biscuit closed the regular set, before an encore that featured a pair of Raconteurs numbers (Steady, as She Goes and a stellar Broken Boy Soldier) and a slide-guitar frenzy to cap the night: The new Underground segued smartly into Seven Nation Army to send off the evening with a moment of familiar, chant-along Detroit communion. Contact Detroit Free Press music writer Brian McCollum: 313-223-4450 or bmccollum@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Jack White gets loud, intimate in first-ever Saint Andrew's Hall gig By Nia Williams (Reuters) - The Trans Mountain oil pipeline expansion (TMX) was meant to shrink the discount on Canadian oil versus U.S. crude but three months in the differential is wider than when commercial operations on the project started. Many analysts had forecast the differential on Western Canada Select (WCS) versus U.S. crude would gradually narrow to single digits thanks to the extra 590,000 barrels per day (bpd) of export capacity offered by TMX. But instead WCS for delivery in Hardisty, Alberta, is trading around $15 a barrel below benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil, versus $11.75 a barrel under the U.S. crude on May 1, the first day of commercial operations. WTI has declined in recent weeks to less than $74 a barrel. Oil companies in Canada, the world's fourth-largest crude producer, have struggled for years with production outpacing the space available on export pipelines, causing crude to get bottlenecked in Alberta. TMX's start-up means Canada finally has spare pipeline capacity, but the expected boost to prices has not materialized. On earnings calls last week, Cenovus Energy and Canadian Natural Resources Ltd, both major shippers on TMX, blamed a number of factors. These include increased competition on the U.S. Gulf Coast from Mexican heavy crude imports and U.S. refinery outages including ExxonMobil's 251,800-bpd Joliet, Illinois, plant that took most of its units offline after losing power following a tornado last month and has not yet fully restarted. Even so, company executives remained optimistic that the WCS discount would start to narrow in coming months. "Over the next little while I would say we expect Trans Mountain to continue to have its intended impact in Alberta and differentials to be as narrow as they have been in a long time," said Geoff Murray, executive vice-president of commercial at Cenovus. "The important thing around Trans Mountain is we've seen the facility come online. It's up, it's operating and it's operating well." RBC Capital Markets analyst Greg Pardy said pipeline egress out of western Canada appeared to be running smoothly. "The main fly in the ointment may be elevated inventory levels in select U.S. regions, but time will tell," he wrote in a note to clients. Weak demand from major sour crude consumer China was also weighing on heavy oil grades globally, said Rory Johnston, founder of the Commodity Context newsletter, adding that expectations that expanding Trans Mountain would significantly narrow WCS differentials had been overdone. Story continues "The main value of TMX wasn't really a low WCS differential but rather a vastly lower probability of another differential blowout, which fingers crossed we still aren't going to see here even if we're back above $15," Johnston said. Prior to TMX's start-up, Canadian producers were vulnerable to congestion on export pipelines occasionally triggering WCS "blowouts" in which the discount plunged to more $40 a barrel below U.S. crude, costing them millions of dollars in revenues. (Reporting by Nia Williams in British Columbia; Editing by Sandra Maler) Japan urges its citizens not to travel to Israel comAn Israeli policeman stands next to a soldier as he inspects the impact site of a projectile, after Lebanon's armed group Hezbollah said it launched a swarm of attack drones against military targets in northern Israel, in Nahariya TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's Foreign Ministry urged its citizens not to visit Israel in a travel alert on Tuesday, citing rising tensions in the Middle East. On Monday The ministry urged Japanese nationals in Lebanon to leave the country. (Reporting by Kiyoshi Takenaka; Editing by Andrew Heavens) JASPER, Mo. Two local residents help detain a man accused of assaulting two women, one being a police officer. Jasper Police responded to a home on North Third Street Friday evening for a report that Job Mayes was physically assaulting a woman. When officers arrived, they say Mayes had left the scene. FOUR STATES CRIME A Jasper police officer says she encountered Mayes about a block from the scene, and thats when she says he punched her, kicked her, and tried to bite her. Two Jasper residents were nearby, and police say they helped apprehend him. EMS transported Mayes to a local hospital with injuries, and the officer was also treated for injuries. Mayes is being held on allegations of domestic assault, assault on law enforcement, assault on the good Samaritans, and resisting arrest. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. (WHTM) Ohio Senator JD Vance, the Republican partys vice presidential nominee, will hold an event for the Trump Campaign in South Philadelphia on Tuesday as voters wait to see who will be Kamala Harris running mate. According to the Trump campaign, Vance will visit 2300 Arena, an indoor arena in South Philadelphia, at noon on Tuesday, hours before Harris begins her tour of the battleground states in Philadelphia. This will mark Vances first visit to Pennsylvania since former President Trump named him his vice presidential nominee last month. In his announcement of Vance as his vice presidential nominee on his social media app Truth Social, former President Trump said that Vance has fought for American farmers and workers in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, Minnesota, and other areas and will focus strongly on campaigning in those areas. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who is reportedly a frontrunner to be Harriss running mate, announced he would address Pennsylvanians at tonights event regardless of whether hes selected to join the ticket. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. Sixteen days after Joe Biden stepped aside and cleared the field for Kamala Harris to become the presumptive Democratic nominee, his vice president has chosen a running mate of her own. And Republicans, seeking to avoid a misstep the party made when it was caught off guard by Biden dropping out, were ready Tuesday with their attacks. Tim Walz and JD Vance are now the vice presidential nominees for their respective parties. Both men were picked for their supposed appeal in the industrial midwest, as both campaigns sought an effective message-bearer in states like Wisconsin and Michigan. But Vances ascension to the presidential ticket has yet to net the Trump campaign any positive results. As Democrats scrambled to respond to a disastrous debate performance from Joe Biden in late June, the Republican presidential nominee picked an Ohio senator with less than two years worth of experience in the job and a litany of his own political baggage to join the GOP ticket. Now, with Harris roaring back into contention in every swing state poll, the incumbent president and his running mate both are eager to blunt Harriss momentum while recapturing some of their own. Tim Walz, governor of Minnesota, was named as Kamala Harriss running mate on Tuesday (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) They are seemingly hoping that a line of attack against Walz and Harris both as far-left will be what does it. Echoing the concern-trolling from #NeverTrump Republicans who have joined the right flank of the Democratic Party as well as some conservative Democrats worried that the party is insufficiently vocal about its support for Israel, Trumps allies have begun attacking Harris for picking Walz over Josh Shapiro the Pennsylvania governor was the target of criticism from progressives who took issue with a college essay in which he wrote that Palestinians will not coexist peacefully with Israelis and would attempt to ruin any chance at a peace deal. Those attacks are getting ugly very quickly. Falling back on a crutch the GOP has used now for decades, Vance dipped his toe into Islamophobia on Tuesday as he responded to a question from a reporter at his event in Philadelphia. In front of the crowd, he declared that Harris had bent the knee to the Hamas wing of the Democratic Party. Kamala Harris is running as a San Francisco liberal, she has governed as a San Francisco liberal, and shes chosen a running mate who will be a San Francisco-style liberal, Vance added. For months, allies of former President Donald Trump have used such Islamophobic language to describe both the Israeli assault in Gaza and the response from protesters in the US to the Biden administrations continued financial and military support for it. Trump himself has described both Biden and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, the latter of whom gave a Senate floor speech calling for new elections in Israel and the removal of Benjamin Netanyahu, as becom[ing] Palestinian, seemingly using the ethnic group as a slur. But Tuesdays comments from Vance are a sign that the Trump campaign may make the Democrats internal hand-wringing over support for the Israeli military a greater campaign issue in the months ahead, while aiming other attacks at Walz aimed at concocting an image of a far-left politician that replaces the reality of Walzs fairly middle-of-the-pack Democratic voting record. Trump echoed Vances attacks in a Truth Social posting, calling the Democratic ticket the most Radical Left duo in American history. Other Trump allies have signalled that Walzs handling of the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests which devolved into riots in the city of Minneapolis after the death of George Floyd will be another issue that Republicans use to attack the Minnesota governor. Walz has batted away such criticism in interviews and vowed to defend his record as governor. Donald Trumps running mate JD Vance swiped at Tim Walz at a campaign rally on Tuesday (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Vance and Trump, meanwhile, remain under the spectre of a label describing them as weird which Walz and other Democrats have been pushing as the Ohio senator tries to explain the intent behind his comments from 2021 attacking childless Americans and claiming they have less of a stake in the future of the country. The former president was even seemingly doing some wishcasting Tuesday afternoon following the announcement of Walz as Harriss running mate, and suggested on Truth Social that Walz may not be on the ticket at all. What are the chances that Crooked Joe Biden, the WORST President in the history of the U.S., whose Presidency was Unconstitutionally STOLEN from him by Kamabla, Barrack HUSSEIN Obama, Crazy Nancy Pelosi, Shifty Adam Schiff, Cryin Chuck Schumer, and others on the Lunatic Left, CRASHES the Democrat National Convention and tries to take back the Nomination, beginning with challenging me to another DEBATE, Trump posited. Jessica Haire (right), at a political fundraiser in 2022, is launching a free market organization known as Opportunity Maryland. File photo by Josh Kurtz. In the midst of a presidential campaign that is growing ever more dynamic, some prominent Maryland Republicans are launching an organization designed to drive the conversation on economic policy in the state. They will announce this week the creation of Opportunity Maryland, what they are describing as a nonpartisan education and advocacy group that will focus on economic development, job creation and taxes in the coming months. Maryland is a great place to live, but people are taking home less of their paycheck and dont really know much about the new taxes and fees theyre being asked to pay where theyre coming from and what theyre supposed to be used for, said Jessica Haire, the former Anne Arundel County Council member who is leading the organization. Over the next few months, Haire said, Opportunity Maryland aims to host listening sessions across the state to hear what residents priorities are and to discuss the state of the state economy and the budget. The goal is to develop an agenda for supporters to push during the upcoming General Assembly session and to warn against profligate legislation that those affiliated with the group might want to oppose, she said. The operating philosophy of the free-enterprise group, Haire continued, is that robust economic growth will create jobs, balance the state budget and eliminate the necessity for raising taxes. The name Opportunity Maryland really says it all right there, she said. Were going to promote practical and pragmatic policies to make sure that budgets are balanced and that we do away with unnecessary regulations so businesses can grow and thrive. Haire said the organization will promote a variety of initiatives, including business tax incentives, the importance of keeping retirees in Maryland, workforce development, smart investments in infrastructure often through public-private partnerships maintaining balanced budgets, and lower levels of government spending. Opportunity Maryland is being set up as a 501(c)(4) organization, an IRS designation that means it can raise money and advocate on issues broadly but cannot support political candidates or lobby on specific legislation. Kyle Gilbert, a onetime campaign aide to former Gov. Larry Hogan (R) who also served in several roles in the Hogan administration and was operations director for the governors second inauguration, will be the executive director for Opportunity Maryland though that will not be a full-time gig. Derek Flowers, a Washington, D.C.-based Republican strategist, will do communications work for the organization. Haire said she expects Opportunity Maryland to grow with time, both operationally and with many supporters and volunteers. Asked if the organization had any donors yet, or a fundraising goal, she replied, We have a lot of fundraising efforts under way, lets put it that way. Invariably, Opportunity Maryland may invite comparisons with the 501(c)(4) group Change Maryland, which Hogan launched in 2011 to blitz then-Gov. Martin OMalley (D) on taxes and economic policy. Hogan used the groundwork from building that organization, especially collecting contact information for Republicans, independents and dissident Democrats, for his successful campaign for governor in 2014. Haire said she was surprised by the suggestion that there could be parallels. I dont think that thought crossed my mind, she said. This is different. This is new. Its going to grow a lot of legs and its going to take off. Besides, Haire said, Opportunity Maryland does not intend to specifically target Gov. Wes Moore (D) or legislative leaders. I really hope its not viewed as a partisan effort, she said. I would really love to work with Gov. Moore on fixing the structural deficit. This is not supposed to be targeting anyone. The group does seem poised to highlight the states potentially precarious financial situation, with projected structural deficits of more than $3 billion in the coming years, plus a projected five-year shortfall of about $3 billion in transportation funding, at a time when Moore is seeking to build the Red Line in Baltimore and fund other big-ticket transportation projects. Earlier this year, the three leading Wall Street financial rating agencies retained Marylands coveted AAA bond rating, but Moodys downgraded the states financial outlook from stable to negative for the first time since 2011. During this years General Assembly session, the House passed a spending plan that included about $1.2 billion in tax increases and other new revenue streams, though those were largely rejected by Moore and Senate Democratic leaders. But the compromise budget did include increases in tobacco taxes and in fees for motor vehicle registrations, plus a surcharge for registrations of electric vehicles, which are expected to bring in hundreds of millions in new revenue. Haire asserted that state leaders havent been straight with Maryland residents about the new taxes and fees or about the states precarious financial situation. The general public is not really aware of the costs that are staring them in the face in the next few years, she said. We keep hearing that were fine this yearIts hard for people to be informed if theyre being kept in the dark. Haire said state leaders are selling Marylanders a pipe dream by making pricey promises without discussing how theyd pay for them. We cant blindside them with massive tax increases, she said. Equally troubling, Haire added, are the higher fees that are being imposed for professional licenses, mentioning cosmetologists, pipefitters and plumbers specifically. College is expensive and its not for everyone, she said. But vocational education and training is a viable alternative. The legislature is making it harder to enter these professions. The fee increases are a barrier to entry. Potential political ramifications Just two weeks ago, Haire, who ran unsuccessfully for Anne Arundel County executive in 2022, told Maryland Matters she was thinking about trying again in 2026. Asked how launching Opportunity Maryland, which could elevate her political profile, might fit into her possible campaign plans, Haire said only that when she lost in 2022, I remember saying theres a lot you can do to affect change from the private sector. Haire, a government contracts lawyer on infrastructure projects for a Washington, D.C., firm, said she sees her advocacy work with the new organization as an extension of other outside activities, which include working as a court-appointed advocate for children in foster care. I view this in the same way, she said. Its using my voice and its using my experience to promote good decisions and good outcomes for people in the state. Besides, she said, I cant sit still. Johnson calls on Biden to release weapons to Israel following rocket attack on US base Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) called on President Biden to release weapons to Israel after a suspected rocket attack injured several U.S. service members on the Al-Asad Airbase in Iraq. After repeated attacks on American troops in the region, and while Israel is under threat from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran, the U.S. cannot hesitate to defend our servicemembers and our ally, Johnson said in a Tuesday statement. He added that any attack by Iran against Israel or the U.S. should be met with decisive force, with the U.S. and its allies in the region working to strongly counter Iran and its terror proxies to send a clear message against these malign activities. We know the current Iranian aggression, backed by Chinese and Russian interests, comes after a months-long pressure campaign against Israel from the Biden-Harris Administration. Now is the time for the White House to realize their choices have brought us to the brink of disaster and give full-throated support to Israel, Johnson continued. President Biden must immediately release all previously withheld and delayed weapons to Israel so it can defend its people and deter Iran and make clear that there will be decisive economic, military, and international ramifications should Iran engage in or support any attacks, Johnson said. A Defense Department spokesperson did not immediately say who was behind the rocket attack, but Iranian-backed militants have made threats against U.S. forces there. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Biden of sending a trickle of military munitions to Israel, the State Department has earlier said it is delivering weapons to Israel under normal processes, in a change from a fast-track status in the aftermath of Hamass Oct. 7 attack on Israel. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said there was no change in policy when asked by The Hill last month if the administration would switch back to fast tracking weapons. Biden had exercised the option of holding back weapons deliveries, pausing the shipment of heavy bombs over concern for the destruction being wrought in the Gaza Strip. But those shipments resumed last month. And even as Biden has grown frustrated with Netanyahus pushing forward on the military operation against Hamas over efforts to secure a cease-fire, the administration has directed significant military assets to the Middle East in recent days to bolster defenses over a possible attack from Iran. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Johnsons statement. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (WTAJ) A Johnstown man pleaded guilty on Tuesday to violating federal narcotic law after he was arrested in a multi-state drug bust. On Aug, 6, George Mazey, 53, pleaded guilty for his role in a drug trafficking ring in Cambria County, according to the Department of Justice for the Western District of Pennsylvania. He is set to be sentenced on Dec. 11. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Dozens arrested from Cambria County in multi-state drug bust The courts were advised that from Feb. 2021 to April 2021 Mazey conspired with others to possess and sell 40 grams or more of a mixture that contained fentanyl, a mixture that contained heroin and another mixture that had cocaine. Mazey was also caught in April of 2021 attempting to distribute a substance containing cocaine and fentanyl, according to United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan. Mazey was intercepted as part of a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of drugs that he then distributed to others. The law provides for a total sentence of no less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, or both. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. The Federal Bureau of Investigations Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mazey. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. JOPLIN, Mo. A Joplin man pleads guilty in connection to an armed robbery from earlier this year. Monday morning, Jeffrey Dampier, 53, pleaded guilty to first-degree burglary. He was originally charged with first-degree robbery and armed criminal action. As part of his plea agreement, Judge Dean Dankleson immediately sentenced Dampier to 10 years in prison. FOUR STATES CRIME Those charges are from an incident on March 22 when Joplin police received a report about an armed robbery at a nail salon on E 20th. Workers called 911 saying Dampier walked into the store wearing a mask, showed a handgun, and demanded money. He ran from the business with an undisclosed amount of cash. Joplin police identified Dampier as the suspect using surveillance video. They arrested him the next day at his home. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. ROME (Reuters) -Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited China at the end of July to boost co-operation with the world's second-largest economy and reset trade ties after leaving the Belt and Road infrastructure investment scheme. During her first trip to Beijing since she took power in 2022, Meloni said that the two countries had signed a three-year action plan and several memorandums of understanding. Below are the main deals announced so far: ELECTRIC MOBILITY - Milan-based EuroGroup Laminations (EGLA) - which specialises in stators and rotors, two key components of electric motors and generators - has signed a preliminary strategic partnership with Chinese automotive component firm Hixih Rubber Industry Group. The agreement aims to create an EGLA-controlled joint venture, with the company saying it aimed to further stimulate growth in the Chinese market in order to increase commercial penetration, in particular with EV manufacturers. A new R&D centre for innovative technologies will be built at Hixih Group's industrial base in the Shandong province, along with a new high-tech industrial plant for the production of motor cores for manufacturers of New Energy Vehicles. RENEWABLE ENERGY - Milan-based Bee Solar and China's Huasun have signed a cooperation agreement in the photovoltaic sector. Bee Solar aims to set up a photovoltaic production hub in Italy utilising Huasun's technology and know-how. The construction of the site is expected to start by March 2025. Huasun is interested in strengthening its position in the European market through cooperation with Bee Solar, the Italian industry ministry said. - China's MingYang Smart Energy, Italian energy firm Renexia and Italy's industry ministry have signed an agreement to set up a wind turbine manufacturing plant. The deal envisages an investment of around 500 million euros ($546 million), the ministry said in a statement, without clarifying how the cost would be shared In the next three months the partners will choose a site for the plant, which is expected to employ up to 1,100 workers. AUTOMOTIVE - Talks between the Italian government and China's Dongfeng Motor Group, to build an auto plant in Italy are at an advanced stage, according to Italian sources. The Rome government could join Dongfeng with a minority stake in the investment which aims to set up a hub for the whole of Europe. The potential deal could also involve other key investors, including Italian companies from the components sector, the sources added. (Reporting by Marta Di Donfrancesco, editing by Giselda Vagnoni) PHILADELPHIA, Pa. (WHTM) An emotional Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro took the stage in Philadelphia in support of Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, after Harris picked Walz over Shapiro to join her campaign hours before. Shapiro took the stage to a large round of applause at The Liacouras Center at Temple University as one of the several speakers warming up voters ahead of Harris and Walz taking the stage. I love being your governor, you all fill my heart and I love you so much, said Shapiro. PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA AUGUST 6: Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro greets the crowd before the start of a campaign rally with Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz at Girard College on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Harris ended weeks of speculation about who her running mate would be, selecting the 60 year old midwestern governor over other candidates. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA AUGUST 6: Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro greets the crowd before the start of a campaign rally with Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz at Girard College on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Harris ended weeks of speculation about who her running mate would be, selecting the 60 year old midwestern governor over other candidates. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA AUGUST 6: Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro greets the crowd before the start of a campaign rally with Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz at Girard College on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Harris ended weeks of speculation about who her running mate would be, selecting the 60 year old midwestern governor over other candidates. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA AUGUST 6: Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro greets the crowd before the start of a campaign rally with Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz at Girard College on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Harris ended weeks of speculation about who her running mate would be, selecting the 60 year old midwestern governor over other candidates. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA AUGUST 6: Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro greets the crowd before the start of a campaign rally with Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz at Girard College on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Harris ended weeks of speculation about who her running mate would be, selecting the 60 year old midwestern governor over other candidates. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA AUGUST 6: Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro greets the crowd before the start of a campaign rally with Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz at Girard College on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Harris ended weeks of speculation about who her running mate would be, selecting the 60 year old midwestern governor over other candidates. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) Josh Shapiro, governor of Pennsylvania, during a campaign event with US Vice President Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, governor of Minnesota and presumptive Democratic vice-presidential nominee, not pictured, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US, on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Harris tapped Walz as her running mate, enlisting him to build an electoral coalition of coastal progressives and Midwest moderates to block Donald Trump from the White House. Photographer: Hannah Beier/Bloomberg via Getty Images Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro speaks before US Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harriss speech at Temple Universitys Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, August 6, 2024, on the first day of the Battleground State Tour. Harris and her freshly selected running mate Tim Walz take the campaign stage Tuesday for the first time, as the Democratic duo aim to fire up supporters with a rally in key battleground Pennsylvania. (Photo by Brendan SMIALOWSKI / AFP) (Photo by BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images) Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro arrives before US Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris speaks at Temple Universitys Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, August 6, 2024, on the first day of the Battleground State Tour. Harris and her freshly selected running mate Tim Walz take the campaign stage Tuesday for the first time, as the Democratic duo aim to fire up supporters with a rally in key battleground Pennsylvania. (Photo by Brendan SMIALOWSKI / AFP) (Photo by BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images) PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA AUGUST 6: Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro speaks during a campaign rally with Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz at Girard College on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Harris ended weeks of speculation about who her running mate would be, selecting the 60 year old midwestern governor over other candidates. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro arrives before US Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris speaks at Temple Universitys Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, August 6, 2024, on the first day of the Battleground State Tour. Harris and her freshly selected running mate Tim Walz take the campaign stage Tuesday for the first time, as the Democratic duo aim to fire up supporters with a rally in key battleground Pennsylvania. (Photo by Brendan SMIALOWSKI / AFP) (Photo by BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images) Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro arrives before US Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris speaks at Temple Universitys Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, August 6, 2024, on the first day of the Battleground State Tour. Harris and her freshly selected running mate Tim Walz take the campaign stage Tuesday for the first time, as the Democratic duo aim to fire up supporters with a rally in key battleground Pennsylvania. (Photo by Brendan SMIALOWSKI / AFP) (Photo by BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images) The governor told the thousands of people in attendance he will focus on getting s*** done for all of you, one of his favorite catchphrases when promoting his policies across the state. Shapiro hit Harris and Walzs opponents, Republicans Donald Trump and JD Vance, saying Trump ripped away the freedom of millions of American women to make decisions over their own bodies, we remember that after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. The crowd then chanted Were not going back and Shapiro repeated their chant saying Were not going back. Shapiro is believed to have been the runner-up to Walz in Harris expedited search for a running mate after President Joe Biden dropped out of the race last month. Many thought Harris would pick Shapiro to lock up Pennsylvanias 19 electoral votes in Novembers election. In a statement on Tuesday morning, Shapiro said Harris has his enthusiastic support and that Walz is an exceptionally strong addition to the ticket. Pennsylvanians elected me to a four-year term as their Governor, and my work here is far from finished there is a lot more stuff I want to get done for the good people of this Commonwealth, said Shapiro in his statement. Some have already speculated that Shapiro could be a top candidate for Attorney General should Harris win in November. During her opening remarks, Harris called Shapiro an incredible Governor and a dear, dear friend. I told Josh, look, I am so, so invested in our friendship and doing this together because together with Josh Shapiro we will win Pennsylvania, said Harris. This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. Gov. Josh Shapiro (D-PA) praised Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN) after Vice President Kamala Harris tapped Walz as her veep pick in his first statement since the news broke on Tuesday morning. Vice President Kamala Harris has my enthusiastic supportand I know that Governor Tim Walz is an exceptionally strong addition to the ticket who will help Kamala move our country forward, Shapiro wrote in the statement. Over the next 90 days, I look forward to traveling all across the Commonwealth to unite Pennsylvanians behind Kamala Harris campaign to defeat Donald Trump, become the 47th President of the United States, and build a better future for our country, Shapiro added. Shapiro also dispelled any possibilities hed be a cabinet pick writing in the statement Pennsylvanians elected me to a four-year term as their Governor, and my work here is far from finished. Harris had reportedly narrowed down her veep choices to Shapiro and Walz over the weekend. Shapiro had drawn opposition from womens groups for his alleged cover-up of sexual harassment allegations against his legislative director, teachers associations for his stance on school vouchers and pro-Palestinian groups for his stance on Israel. Walzs allies also seemed to overpower support for Shapiro. Walz had the backing of Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), who was reportedly responsible for getting President Joe Biden to step down. A Biden aide told CNN on Friday that the president was a big fan of Shapiros, but added that Walz puts Biden in the best mood ever. Sen. Bernie Sanders (D-VT) and United Auto Workers president Shawn Fain were among progressive leaders who also supported Walzs nomination. David Hogg, founder of gun safety advocacy group March For Our Lives, also endorsed Walz on July 26. Walz has previously had an A rating from the NRA but did a complete 180 following the 2017 Las Vegas shooting. I want to be extremely clear as I have said multiple times in the past several days. I think Tim Walz makes the most qualified person to be vice president and just think hes a great communicator. If it is not Walz l will still proudly support VP Harris, Hogg wrote in a post on X. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Judge in buoys case says no matter what happens, the matter will end up in Supreme Court The judge who will preside over the federal lawsuit that pits the Biden administration against Texas over the placement of buoys in the Rio Grande as a deterrent to unlawful immigration acknowledged in court Tuesday that whatever decision is reached at trial will not be the last word. "This case will end up in the Supreme Court," Senior U.S. District Judge David Allan Ezra told the lawyers during a pretrial conference at the federal courthouse in Austin. The conference to bring the parties up to date in the lawsuit brought by the federal government that names Gov. Greg Abbott as the defendant was scheduled after the trial that had been scheduled to start Tuesday was postponed at least until November. The delay was made necessary after last week's split ruling by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that said the 1,000-foot chain of buoys floating for the past year near Eagle Pass may remain in place while the legal wrangling continues. Buoys float on the Rio Grande River in Eagle Pass, Texas on July 20, 2023, as a Mexican engineer with the International Boundary and Water Commission uses GPS determine to see if the buoys are crossing into Mexican territory. The buoys were installed on orders by Texas Governor Greg Abbott as an obstacle to prevent migrants from reaching the north embankment of the Rio Grande on the international boundary between Mexico and the U.S. The ruling was made complicated, Ezra said, because even though a narrow majority of the New Orleans-based appeals court said the buoys should stay, many of the individual judges in the majority offered somewhat conflicting legal justification for their decisions. More: Operation Lone Star explained: What's happening in Eagle Pass, Texas? The judge and the lawyers for both sides in the case must now comb through the several written opinions from the appeals court judges and decide how they will affect the way they plan to try the case. Also unsettled is the question of whether the trial will be conducted before a jury or whether it should be left to the judge to make the ruling based on the evidence presented. The Texas attorney general's office, representing Abbott and the state, has asked for a jury trial. But Ezra ruled that a jury would not be necessary, and appealed the ruling to the 5th Circuit. "I don't know why the state of Texas would ever want a jury trial in the case, unless it was to delay," Ezra said in court. "I hope not." In the court document seeking a jury trial, the attorney general's office said the law entitles the defendant in such cases to demand a jury trial unless the judge finds "there is no federal right to a jury trial." On the question of whether the buoys should be allowed to remain in the river pending the outcome of the trial, Ezra said his ruling that became the subject of the 5th Circuit appeal should not have been taken as ambiguous. He ruled that the buoys should be moved from the center of the channel to the Texas shoreline so as not to impede any watercraft moving up or down the river. He said he did not order the removal of the barriers, as requested by the federal government, because he wanted to save taxpayers the expense if a a higher court ordered them reinstalled. In noting that any outcome of the trial would be appealed by the losing side, Ezra effectively acknowledged Abbott's assertion at the start of the legal dispute. The governor ordered the buoys into the river, saying he has the authority as governor to take what steps he deems necessary to repel what he and other national Republican leaders have labeled "an invasion" into Texas by undocumented immigrants. And, Abbott said at the time, if the federal government prevails in the original trial, Texas is prepared to take this fight all the way to the Supreme Court. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Why the Texas buoys case may go all the way to the Supreme Court ST. GEORGE, Utah (ABC4) A lawsuit filed against the city of St. George over a 2023 all-ages drag show will be allowed to go forward after a federal judge denied the citys request to toss it out. The lawsuit was originally filed in 2023 after the Southern Utah Drag Stars (SUDS) were denied a permit to host an all-ages drag show in a public park. SUDS argued the City of St. George had discriminated against the group and violated the First and the Fourteenth Amendments in the denial. In June 2023, U.S. District Judge David Nuffer sided with SUDS, who requested an injunction to allow the show to go on. SUDS was allowed to hold its event on June 30, 2023. Shortly after, the City of St. George changed its ordinances and moved to toss the lawsuit calling it moot. Neffer, in part, agreed saying in his ruling that since the drag show had happened, part of SUDS complaint was no longer relevant. However, in his ruling, Neffer said a controversy still exists. Simone Biles and Team USA members set for September Utah performance Because SUDS is seeking a declaratory judgment, not only on the facial constitutionality of the Citys ordinances but on the ordinances misuse by the City, a case or controversy still exists, Neffer ruled. The final adjudication of past facts remains to be made and is necessary for any future adjudication of damages and attorneys fees. Judge Neffer said St. Georges repeal of the challenged ordinances does not erase any evidence that the ordinances were applied as a targeted attempt to restrict SUDS from access to the public park. The repeal also does guarantee the group would be safe from future discriminatory conduct, the ruling says. The ruling means the lawsuit will be able to continue to move forward. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KRON) A judge denied granting freedom on Tuesday for a man who raped and murdered 8-year-old Madyson Maddy Middleton in Santa Cruz. The long-term fate of Adrian Jerry AJ Gonzalez will be decided by a trial jury, Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge Denine Guy ruled. Adrian Jerry AJ Gonzalez was 15 years old when he lured his young neighbor into his apartment with promises of ice cream in 2015. He targeted the girl to satisfy his sexual urge, according to Gonzalezs defense attorney. Gonzalez was convicted as a juvenile and he has remained in the juvenile detention system ever since. Maddy smiles next to her father. On Tuesday, Judge Guy was slated to potentially release Maddys killer from custody. Under California law, inmates who were convicted as juveniles are supposed to be freed when they turn 25 years old. Gonzalezs 25th birthday is in October. Inmates can be denied freedom, however, if they are still deemed physically dangerous to the public or have difficulty controlling dangerous impulses, Guy explained. Gonzalez listened to the ruling remotely via a Zoom video livestream from Sonoma County Juvenile Hall. His mother sat in the courtroom gallery and she declined to speak to reporters. While delivering her highly-anticipated ruling, the judge said she purposefully did not reveal details about why she made her decision. The judge did not want to influence future jurors or taint the jury pool, Guy said. Adrian Jerry Gonzalez is seen in a courtroom on September 6, 2017. (Photo By Michael Macor/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images) That way, there will be no information for jurors to adopt in their decisions, Guy said. A jury will be selected and the trial will begin within the next 30 days. Gonzalez will remain in custody at Sonoma County Juvenile Hall as he awaits a speedy trial. Jurors will decide if Gonzalez is too dangerous to release. Madyson Maddy Middleton (Photo via Santa Cruz Police Department) Earlier this summer, Judge Guy presided over a lengthy hearing listening to arguments from prosecutor Tara George and Chief Deputy Public Defender Athena Reis. Maddy and Gonzalez lived in the same apartment complex at the Tannery Arts Center in Santa Cruz. In the summer of 2015, Maddy was playing with her scooter in the centers courtyard when her neighbor promised to give her ice cream if she followed him home. Once inside his apartment, Gonzalez attacked, dragged her to a bed, and choked her for 30 minutes, according to testimony. When he thought the girl was dead, he began sexually assaulting her. He then put Maddy in a trash bag, stabbed her in the neck, and hid the body in a dumpster downstairs. Maddy Middletons killer did not think he would face consequences The murder case sent shockwaves through the community that still impact residents today. Local residents staged a small protest outside the courtroom holding up photographs of Maddy and calling for the killer to spend the rest of his life in prison. Protesters held signs reading Justice for Maddy outside the Santa Cruz courthouse on Aug. 6, 2024. (KRON4 Photo) While delivering closing arguments for the hearing last week, Reis argued that Gonzalez underwent years of sex offender treatment, counseling, and other juvenile rehabilitation programs. Reis said her client is ready to start a new life in San Francisco, begin classes on campus at San Francisco State University this fall, and to reside in free transitional housing in the citys Tenderloin neighborhood. George argued that good behavior in custody is not an indicator of what Gonzalez will do as a free man. On the day he murdered Maddy, Adrian went from zero to 100, and there is not one person who can say why, George told the judge in her closing arguments. To talk about his behavior in an institutional setting defeats the purpose of what we are doing. He knows how to check the boxes. That doesnt mean hes not a danger to the public. That doesnt mean after nine years his work is done, George added. Judge Guy noted that the juvenile murder case is extremely unique. She ordered Gonzalez to appear in court remotely for a trial readiness conference on August 14 at 9 a.m. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. HONOLULU (KHON2) Attorneys for Albert Ian and Shawn Schweitzer scored a victory in court. The attorneys subpoenaed Hawaii Police asking for all evidence in its investigation into Albert Lauro Jr. Lauro was recently identified as the unknown male in connection with the death of Dana Ireland in 1991. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news Lauro killed himself days after talking to detectives. Prosecutors did not want to share any evidence, arguing the murder investigation is still on-going. Our law states that police reports that are part of a pending investigation at the time of the request may be withheld based on law enforcement record exemption and the frustration exemption to disclosure, said Britt Bailey, Deputy Corporation Council. This is to avoid impeding an ongoing investigation. Its him, new evidence links to suspect involved in 1991 Big Island case The judge ruled that police must hand its findings to the court. The court will then determine if any evidence may be handed over to Schweitzers attorneys. They argue that to release these records would be a destruction of evidence, loss of witness testimony, tampering with witnesses, said Bill Harrison, Hawaii Innocence Project Your honor, we say it that already happened because they failed to follow protocol, initially in this investigation of Mr. Lauro. The hearing to determine the Schweitzers innocence in the trial continues later this week. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. FILE - This image provided by American Civil Liberties Union of Vermont shows Burlington Police Department body cam footage of a police interaction with a Black teen in his home on May 15, 2021 in Burlington, Vt. (Burlington Police Department/American Civil Liberties Union of Vermont via AP) A Vermont judge has denied the city of Burlingtons request to dismiss a lawsuit alleging that police used excessive force and discriminated against a Black teenager whose mother had called law enforcement to teach him a lesson about stealing. When the 14-year-old, who has behavioral and intellectual disabilities, failed to hand over the last of the stolen e-cigarettes on May 15, 2021, two officers physically forced him to do so, according to the lawsuit and police body camera video shared with The Associated Press by the American Civil Liberties Union of Vermont. The teen was handcuffed and pinned to the ground in his house as he screamed and struggled, according to the lawsuit. He was injected with the sedative ketamine and taken to a hospital, according to the lawsuit and video. The lawsuit, filed by the teen's mother, accuses officers of treating him differently because they perceived him as aggressive due to his race. It also alleges that injecting him with ketamine was race-based disparate treatment." Burlington officers had visited the home before and were aware of the teens disabilities, the lawsuit says. Too often, victims of police violence are denied their day in court because of an unjust legal doctrine called qualified immunity, Vermont ACLU attorney Harrison Stark wrote in a statement. We are thrilled that ... the Court has agreed that this get-out-of-court-free card is no excuse to close the courthouse doors." The city did not immediately return an email seeking comment. A city spokesperson said in February that an investigation found that officers and fire department EMTs acted according to city and state regulations and policies. The Associated Press generally doesnt identify minors who are accused of crimes. Body camera video shows two officers talking calmly to the teen, who is sitting on a bed. His mother tells him to cooperate; she goes through drawers and finds most of the remaining e-cigarettes and tries to get the last one from him. Officers say if he turns the e-cigarettes over, theyll leave and he wont be charged. He doesnt respond. After about 10 minutes, the officers forcibly remove the last of the e-cigarettes from his hand by pulling the 230-pound teen's arms behind his back and pinning him against the bed. The city argued that officers conducted a reasonable search and seizure; that its police and fire departments are not subject to the Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act and that they made reasonable efforts to account for the teen's disabilities; and that its police and fire departments are protected by qualified immunity, according to the judge. "The crime was not serious, he did not pose an immediate threat, and he did not try to evade arrest by flight,' Vermont Superior Court Judge Helen Toor wrote in her ruling July 31. The officers also should have taken into account his reported mental health condition, she wrote. "That might have involved waiting more than 10 minutes before using any kind of physical force," she wrote. Toor also wrote that the allegations are more than sufficient to support a claim of racial discrimination." She also wrote the court has no basis to dismiss any of the claims on qualified immunity grounds at this stage. The city has three weeks from the judge's ruling to respond. A city spokesperson said by email on Tuesday that the city did not want to comment on, or make predictions about, the likelihood of any particular outcome as this case moves forward through the court. The use of ketamine on suspects has recently come under scrutiny. At least 17 people died in Florida over a decade following encounters with police during which medical personnel injected them with sedatives, an investigation led by The Associated Press has found. In Burlington, after the city investigated, the mayor at the time ordered the fire department to review the use of ketamine, and the state has updated protocols to require a doctor's permission, the city spokesperson said in February. Paramedics in the Burlington teen's case did get a doctors permission even though it wasn't required at the time, she said. A federal judge on Monday ordered the government to return property including a 6-foot spear and a horned fur headdress seized in connection to the case against U.S. Capitol rioter Jacob Chansley, otherwise known as the QAnon Shaman. Federal prosecutors argued the property should stay in the governments possession in case Chansley contested his conviction pointing to a recent Supreme Court decision that weakened the primary charge against Chansley. But U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth was not convinced by that argument, writing it is not clear how Mr. Chansley could contest his conviction, as he has been sentenced, abandoned his direct appeal, and seen his motion denied. But even if the government may need to reprove Mr. Chansleys guilt, the government has not explained why it would need his property, Lamberth continued, noting the voluminous video and photo evidence of Chansleys conduct on Jan. 6, 2021, that renders the property of little utility for an investigation or prosecution. The Justice Department noted in a recent court filing that it might consider taking steps toward seeking a civil forfeiture, but Lamberth rejected that argument as a legitimate basis for denying Chansleys request to return his property. Had the government simply sought civil forfeiture by now, Mr. Chansleys motion may have turned out differently. But the Court sees no reason to delay or deny Mr. Chansley relief based on the governments hypothetical future choice to take a step it could have already taken, Lamberth wrote. Chansley pleaded guilty to a felony charge of obstruction of an official proceeding in September 2021 in a plea deal that allowed for the dismissal of five other charges against him. Chansley has completed his prison sentence and much of his supervised released. He was sentenced to 41 months in prison in November of that year, but he was sent to the halfway house about a year and a half later. Inmates can have their sentences reduced for good behavior while in prison. Chansley became one of the most notorious Capitol rioters because of his elaborate garb worn inside the Capitol during the attack on Jan. 6, 2021 from his horned helmet to his face paint to his bare chest. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The judge said the state's Sore Loser Law does not apply to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who sought the White House as a Democrat before launching a third-party bid. (Eva Marie Uzcategui/Getty Images) Robert F. Kennedy Jr. should remain on New Jerseys ballot as an independent candidate for president in November, an administrative law judge said Tuesday. Administrative Law Judge Ernest M. Bongiovanni said Kennedy did not formally seek the Democratic nomination for president in New Jersey before he opted to seek the White House as an independent instead, so the states Sore Loser Law does not apply to him. That law prohibits candidates from running for elected office as an independent the same year they failed to secure the nomination of a political party. Election attorney Scott Salmon has tried to keep Kennedys name from appearing on Novembers ballot, citing Kennedys attempt to challenge President Joe Biden for the Democratic nod for president and pointing to funds Kennedy raised in New Jersey for that effort. But the judge said Salmons interpretation of the law is overbroad. Giving speeches, raising campaign funds, and issuing press releases are all activities conducted nationwide and not for the specific benefit of New Jersey Democratic primary election votes, Bongiovanni wrote. A candidate is determined to unsuccessfully seek a political partys nomination after filing a declaration of candidacy and submitting nomination petitions for the primary, or conducting a write-in campaign. Bongiovanni said Kennedys team took none of those actions. Bongiovanni also noted that while Kennedy raised money from New Jersey donors, it is well known that Presidential campaigners do not participate in every primary where states hold primaries. He said Kennedy only made preliminary plans to run as a Democrat nationally. Although Kennedy received a very small number of write-ins during the Democrat primary, there was absolutely no evidence that those votes were sought by him of any effort of the Kennedy campaign, the decision reads. Bongiovannis recommendation that Kennedy is eligible for the ballot now heads to Secretary of State Tahesha Way, who makes the final decision. Way is also lieutenant governor. In a Tuesday letter to Way asking her to reject Bongiovannis recommendation, Salmon noted that Kennedy appeared in New Jersey at least once to seek support for the Democratic nomination for president in September 2023, a few weeks before he decided to run for president as an independent. The only evidence in the record on this point is a press release from Mr. Kennedy stating that he was opening a New Jersey campaign headquarters, campaign expenditures for events held in New Jersey, and a campaign speech in which Mr. Kennedy actively asked New Jersey voters to support him and help him obtain support, Salmon wrote. This is the definition of actively seeking support for an upcoming election. And so the only evidence in the record explicitly shows Mr. Kennedy seeking the support of New Jersey voters. This is the second time Salmons attempt to keep Kennedy from getting on the ballot has been rejected by a judge. Superior Court Judge Robert Lougy dismissed a similar case last week, saying that challenge should have gone to Ways office. New Jersey is not the only place where Kennedy is facing ballot problems. A group of New York voters say Kennedy should not win a place on the November ballot because he used an address that is not his own on his nominating petitions. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Judge has yet to rule in Gallegly-CLU lawsuit, saying it's 'sad we're even here' A judge refused to rule Friday in the trial pitting former U.S. Rep. Elton Gallegly and his wife, Janice Gallegly, against California Lutheran University over the school's management of a research center named after the couple. The Thousand Oaks university asked Ventura County Superior Court Judge Henry Walsh to act now, arguing the couple's attorneys had presented no proof in almost seven days of trial on the critical question of what the parties' rights and duties are under various agreements. At issue are obligations in the transfer of Gallegly's archival papers and other property to the college for what's called the Elton & Janice Gallegly Center for Public Service and Civic Engagement. The couple's lawsuit says the school was obligated to maintain and protect an exact replica of the congressman's former office in Washington, D.C., maintain and protect the center as a nonpartisan facility for the study and development of public service, maintain a distinguished speaker series and professionally digitize and archive the papers from his long career. California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks removed the replica Washington, D.C., office of former Rep. Elton Gallegly, who took this photo. The replica office was taken down in the university library around January 2022 in what officials have said was a long-planned move to make room for the archives. The archives are in the library but weren't digitized, which an archival specialist testified Friday was not necessary. Scholarships have not been awarded since the 2021-22 school year, and the speaker series stopped after one guest, former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, who visited in 2018. The latter two programs have not restarted due to lack of funding, according to university Provost Leanne Neilson. Walsh said the school had the right to ask for judgment Friday after the plaintiffs rested, which legal counsel for the Galleglys did that day. But granting the request was "a steep hill for a judge to climb," Walsh said. "I'm not going to do it in this case," he said. In pointed remarks from the bench, Walsh called the center "a good idea" that had "blown up" and probably never would be revived. "It's sad we're even here," Walsh said in the Ventura courtroom that was almost filled with lawyers, their assistants, local media and the Galleglys. The couple sued in 2021, alleging breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, unfair business practices and other claims. The three-pronged civil trial is in its first phase, which requires only deliberations by the judge and no jury. That's when the judge is charged with determining the rights and duties of the parties under agreements for the establishment of the center. In the second phase, a jury yet to be chosen would decide whether the agreements were broken, according to attorneys for both sides. If the jury finds certain violations, the case would return to Walsh for remedies he would craft, said Charles Slyngstad, an attorney representing the well-known Republican couple from Simi Valley. Gallegly served in the U.S. House of Representatives for 26 years, ending in January 2013, making him the longest serving congressional representative in Ventura County history. The Thousand Oaks college presented its first witness Friday, an archivist who said Gallegly's papers were catalogued, archived and preserved up to accepted standards through the keeping of paper copies. Archivist Nicholas Lawrence testified that archival papers do not necessarily have to be digitized, a process he said carries the risk of corrupted files and loss. He acknowledged that research with the paper originals may require a specific date range when the couple's legal counsel asked him how one would find documents on certain specific topics from the past. The example cited in court was the congressman's visit with ruler Moammar Gadhafi in Libya to obtain the release of certain individuals. Both Elton and Janice Gallegly have testified during the trial. Janice Gallegly finished her testimony Friday as the university's legal counsel quizzed her about her involvement in letters to the editor complaining about the university's actions. The case was set to return to Walsh's courtroom Tuesday, when several defense witnesses were scheduled to testify. Closing arguments were expected by the end of the week with the timing of Walsh's written ruling on rights and duties still unknown, defense attorney Matthew Burris said. The critical question for Walsh is what rights and duties exist under any agreement that preceded this dispute, Burris said in a brief interview after Friday's session. "Broadly speaking, the judge determines does an agreement exist," he said. "The jury will determine were any agreements broken." He suggested that other parts of the lawsuit may not go forward unless Walsh finds there was an enforceable agreement. But Slyngstad said he believes that at the very least the school's alleged breach of fiduciary duty will make it to the jury. Kathleen Wilson covers courts, mental health and local government issues for the Ventura County Star. Reach her at kathleen.wilson@vcstar.com or 805-206-8805. This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: No ruling yet in Gallegly-California Lutheran University suit FedEx and UPS face strong headwinds from Amazon, Walmart and other delivery companies as B2C delivery overtakes the B2B market they were built to serve. (Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves) By Satish Jindel (The views expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of FreightWaves or its affiliates.) For decades, FedEx and UPS essentially functioned as a duopoly in the U.S. parcel delivery market. With few challengers, they made lots of money. The second-quarter earnings release from UPS on July 23 shocked many investors, resulting in the stock dropping 12% within minutes of the earnings call. The big surprise was that UPS customers are downgrading from Air Express to Ground service and from Ground to the lower-priced SurePost, an economy service that involves injecting parcels into the U.S. Postal Service system for final-mile delivery. If the market was paying attention to what the carriers were saying in prior earnings calls, they should have expected these changes. Both FedEx and UPS in recent years have touted how their improved Ground service made transit times faster than those of their competitors. In the process, they also created a competitor to their own Express and Deferred services. Since 2019, UPS has expedited Ground transit times to the point that delivery time has fallen from three days to two days for 12% of lanes and from three days to two days for an additional 22% of its routes, allowing more express and deferred parcels to be converted to ground. Even SurePost, which takes one to two days longer than Ground service for delivery, has experienced transit time improvements for 7% of packages, prompting customers to downgrade service options. The decline of Express and Deferred volumes actually started more than two decades ago. It began when FedEx acquired RPS (rebranded as FedEx Ground) and the industry guaranteed day-definite ground service. In 2000, the FedEx Express operating unit handled 2.92 million parcels per day. Throughput for fiscal year 2024, ended May 31, was 2.58 million parcels. During the same period, FedEx Ground daily volume has increased from 1.52 million to 10.7 million parcels. Furthermore, with investment in multicarrier manifesting systems from companies like ProShip, and visibility and analytics from companies like ShipMatrix, shippers are now able to utilize cheaper and yet faster ground services. A major inflection point has been the explosive growth of e-commerce over the past 10 years, which has resulted in 65% of all domestic parcels being delivered directly to consumers. And, with more online orders now fulfilled from local stores or by Chinese retailers like Temu and Shein bringing orders into gateway airports like Miami, Los Angeles, Dallas and Chicago, the last-mile deliveries are being done by smaller companies like Better Trucks, Jitsu, Veho, Uni-Uni and SpeedX, which operate with a lower cost structure. Story continues And, while these regional carriers may eventually lose the business to FedEx and UPS, the heightened regional competition forces the giants to operate in shorter shipping zones that have lower margins, resulting in lower yields per parcel. Equally important is the growth of private fleets by major retailers. Amazon delivering over 22 million parcels per day using drivers employed by its network of delivery service partners. Walmart is doing something similar. In Walmart U.S., over the last 12 months, 4.4 billion items were delivered the same or next day, with about 20% of those delivered within three hours, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon stated on the companys May 16 earnings call. That means Walmart delivers over 4 million parcels per day from its 4,600 local stores by deploying alternate approaches, including the use of gig workers at companies like Uber Eats and DoorDash typically known for food delivery. With the push over the past decade to fulfill online orders from facilities closer to the consumer, the percentage of parcels traveling shorter distances (less than 300 miles) has increased from 45% to 68% while those going 1,400 miles or more have shrunk from 17% to 10%. The shift of large e-commerce retailers from Ground to SurePost and UPS rollout of a cheaper Ground Saver service with transit time of Ground plus three days illustrates that consumers will accept slower delivery for a lower price of the item. Even Amazon, which has pushed the envelope on faster delivery, is responding to low-cost competition from Temu and Shein. Amazon recently announced it will offer a discount marketplace for lower-priced items that are shipped from overseas directly to consumers within 10 days of an order by avoiding stocking at more expensive U.S. fulfillment centers. Given these monumental developments, by the 2026 peak season the private fleets of major retailers and local companies are positioned to deliver more parcels to residences than FedEx and UPS combined. Were talking about more than 40 million parcels per day. FedEx and UPS leaders need to prepare for that future. (Satish Jindel is president of ShipMatrix Inc., a consultancy, and founding member of RPS (now FedEx Ground) who has analyzed trends in the parcel and less-than-truckload sectors for 30 years.) The post FedEx and UPS must adapt to changing parcel landscape appeared first on FreightWaves. After a jury trial lasting two weeks, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellisons office has convicted Michael Jordan Carpenter on all charges including first-degree premeditated murder and second-degree intentional murder following the October 2022 killing of Nicole Hammond, according to a release. A judges gavel On Oct. 24, 2022, Michael Carpenter shot and killed his co-worker, Nicole Hammond, in the parking lot of Dubow Textile in St. Cloud. The two exchanged text messages the night before, in which Hammond requested not to be touched by Carpenter. The following morning, Carpenter armed himself with his 9mm pistol and approached Hammond as she exited her vehicle before her work shift. Carpenter fired a single gunshot through Hammonds neck and fled the area. Hammond died at the scene, according to court records. More: St. Cloud man charged with murder in shooting death of co-worker, victim ID'd Attorney General Ellisons office prosecuted Carpenter upon a referral from the Benton County Attorney. Assistant Attorney General Erin Eldridge led the States prosecution, assisted by Assistant Attorney General Mary Russell, paralegal Terri Yang, and Victim Witness Coordinator Nora Radtke. Nothing can bring Nicole Hammond back to her family and community. Nonetheless, I am pleased this brings some justice for her and I hope it brings some healing to her loved ones. My thanks go to the team that won this conviction, the agencies that assisted in investigating this crime, and to Benton County Attorney Kathleen Reuter and former Benton County Attorney Karl Schmidt for entrusting my office with this case, Attorney General Ellison said. I accepted this case because under the law, it is my job to assist our county attorneys when they ask for help. Minnesotans in every corner of our state deserve equal justice and my office is here to help provide it. When a prosecutor asks for my help, I will seek justice for victims and prosecute offenders to the fullest extent of the law. More: Memorial walk held in 2022 Memorial walk was held in 2022 in St. Cloud to honor victim Attorney General Ellison thanks the St. Cloud Police Department, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Stearns County Sheriffs Office, and the Benton County Sheriffs Office, who assisted in the investigation and successful prosecution of this crime. This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: St. Cloud man convicted of intentional murder Former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters, in red shirt, is seen outside the courtroom during her trial in Grand Junction with an unidentified person, Aug. 2, 2024. (Sharon Sullivan for Colorado Newsline) Stephanie Wenholz did not want to attend an elections conspiracy presentation by math teacher and nationally known election denier Douglas Frank on the evening of April 23, 2021, at a Grand Junction hotel. Wenholz, Mesa Countys front-end elections manager, had been told by her boss, then-Mesa County Clerk and Recorder Tina Peters, that attendance was mandatory, Wenholz testified Monday during Peters criminal trial. Honestly, the information was kind of like a revival, Wenholz told the jury. I was very uncomfortable at this event. I felt my safety was in jeopardy while I was there. Earlier that day at the Mesa County elections office in Grand Junction, Wenholz had attended a meeting that included Mesa County Elections Director Brandi Bantz, Peters, Frank, then-deputy Clerk Belinda Knisley, former back-end elections manager Sandra Brown, Peters friend and prominent election denier Sherronna Bishop, and attorney Maurice Emmer. Wenholz secretly recorded the meeting, and prosecutors played clips from the recording in court Monday. Wenholz identified before the court speakers in the recording. I think its a feather in your cap if you can say, We discovered this corruption in our county and we cleaned it up,' she identified Frank as saying. Frank is also heard saying, Ive been helping people find these phantom ballots, and I would be glad to help you. Ive been going around the country helping lots of people, and Mike Lindell pays me to do that. Lindell, the MyPillow CEO, is a prominent election conspiracy theorist. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Hes also heard responding to Bishops suggestion of doing an election audit, saying, I dont think Im your guy to do that audit, but I know the team and theyll do it for you, and theyll come in with the best in the country. Because were practiced at this now. Eventually, Peters told Bantz and Wenholz to leave the meeting. In 2022, a Mesa County grand jury charged Peters, a Republican, with three felony counts of attempting to influence a public servant, three felony counts of conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation and one felony count of identity theft. She also faces three misdemeanor charges of official misconduct, elections violations and failure to comply with the Colorado secretary of states office crimes allegedly committed in a quest to prove that her elections machine were faulty. Peters is alleged to have participated in a scheme to make a copy of election system data, which resulted in secure passwords and other sensitive information associated with Mesa Countys election system being posted on the internet. She pleaded not guilty on all counts, saying the charges are politically motivated. Robert Shapiro, first assistant Colorado attorney general for special prosecutions, is part of the prosecution team, which also includes Deputy Attorney General Janet Drake, Mesa County District Attorney Dan Rubinstein, and investigator James Cannon. When Shapiro began asking Wenholz about a meeting that occurred in August 2021, she became emotional, prompting Shapiro to ask why mention of the meeting had that effect on her. That was the day we received a press release that the secretary of states office was investigating our office, she said. I pride myself on my abilities that I do. And that day was extremely emotional for all of us I was crying. It was absolutely heartbreaking We found out that our passwords were leaked and it was just devastating. I was crying. It was absolutely heartbreaking ... We found out that our passwords were leaked and it was just devastating. Stephanie Wenholz, Mesa Countys front-end elections manager The Colorado secretary of state launched an investigation after images of passwords inside the countys secure elections tabulation room were taken and given to a person who posted the images online. The secretary of states office believed the security breach occurred during a May 25 software update, also known as a trusted build. Peters wanted the public to attend the trusted build, but was denied that request. Wenholz testified that Peters was upset and said as clerk she should be able to do what she wanted to do. Wenholz testified that trusted builds had never been a public event, and with the COVID-19 pandemic happening public gatherings were discouraged anyway. Best practice is to have a trusted build be closed, Wenholz said. It was not a law at that time, but it is now. Defense attorney John Case jumped on that point, saying, So it was not illegal in 2021? If the public had been present it wouldnt have violated Colorado statute? To which Wenholz answered, It would not have been a crime. Also, in 2021, it was not against the law to have surveillance cameras turned off thats changed, too, since the Mesa County election systems breach. The identify theft charge comes from an alleged scheme to use the identity of Fruita resident Gerald Wood to allow a California man named Conan Hayes to access the secure trusted build. Cameras turned off Andrew Wetzel, who works in Mesa Countys IT department, also took the witness stand Monday. He testified that then-deputy clerk Knisley requested surveillance cameras be turned off just days before the trusted build on May 25. Wetzel said it had been customary for surveillance cameras to be left on in the tabulation room 24/7. Ive never seen or been requested to turn cameras off, Wetzel said. The final witness on Monday was Danny Casias, the secretary of states senior voting system specialist, who was present during the trusted build. Casias recalled how Tina Peters showed up with a man she introduced as Gerald Wood. Wood testified Friday that he had not been present at the trusted build, though an access badge had been created for him and was used to access the secure elections area. Casias said he would have stopped the trusted build immediately if he knew there was an unauthorized person present, or had noticed someone taking images inside the tabulation room. After the conclusion of Mondays testimony and the jurors had left the room, defense attorney Dan Hartman argued for allowing information be brought up that had already been deemed inadmissible as evidence. He claimed that Hayes was a government informant and that Peters had promised to conceal his identity. Hartman said Peters believed she had the authority to execute her public duties to prove machines were corruptible, and that she felt obligated to conceal Hayes identity. Mesa County District Court Judge Matthew Barrett wasnt buying it, however. He called Hartmans arguments confusing, prejudicial and a waste of time. The trial resumes Tuesday. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Former Des Moines mayoral candidate Denver Foote has lost their federal lawsuit alleging city police officers wrongly arrested and beat them during the May 2020 George Floyd protests. Foote uses they/them pronouns, although both sides in last week's trial referred to them as she and her. The jury deliberated Friday afternoon and most of Monday before returning a verdict in favor of Officers Brandon Holtan and Adam Herman, Foote's attorney Gina Messamer said. Foote intends to appeal. A large bruise on Denver Foote's arm, the result, Foote says, of being struck with a police baton during their May 31 arrest as they were leaving a protest in downtown Des Moines. Foote in a Dec. 23 lawsuit accused Des Moines police of illegally arresting and beating them. "This was not a fun experience for Denver, but it was important to do. Im very proud of Denver," Messamer said in an email. "The judge kept the jury from hearing that one of the defendant officers pepper-sprayed and tackled photojournalist Ted Nieters two days later, which we think was a big mistake. We will be appealing that decision." Nieters has filed his own lawsuit against police and is awaiting its trial. Foote, 28, was arrested several blocks from where looters were breaking into the Court Avenue Hy-Vee, and was charged with rioting and other offenses. Those charges were dropped shortly before trial, with prosecutors saying there was insufficient evidence for the case to proceed. In their lawsuit, Foote alleged the officers who pepper-sprayed and battered them had no legal cause to arrest them in the first place, let alone use excessive force. In her opening statement last week, Messamer said Foote was severely beaten without any cause. Blinded by the pepper spray, "She was unarmed, she posed no threat," said Messamer, who noted that Foote is 4 feet 11 inches tall and weighs barely 100 pounds. "She was up against two trained soldiers." Previously: Court lets mayoral candidate's lawsuit against Des Moines police proceed to trial Lawyers for the city, though, said Foote's arrest was the natural result of treating a riot as a "spectator sport." "Ask yourself, whose choice was it to attend and stay at a riot? What are the reasonable consequences?" attorney Michelle Mackel-Wiederanders said in her opening statement. "What can you expect to happen when you make those choices?" What happened to Denver Foote during riot? Foote and their then-boyfriend testified they had attended a rally at the Iowa Capitol on the night of May 30, 2020, and returned home, but then went back downtown looking for a neighbor who was also part of the protests. When Foote saw people begin breaking into buildings, they ran toward an alley. According to Foote, they were walking alone north on Third Street to get back to their car when they saw police running toward them. The first officer who has never been identified hit Foote with pepper spray and kept pursiung as Foote retreated into a small cubby off the street. Holtan and Herman got to Foote next, and hit them first with more pepper spray, then with their shields, and finally several strikes from Herman's baton. The officers testified they ordered Foote to get down from the cubby, but that Foote refused and tried to escape from them. Foote said they didn't hear any such directions given and was trying to protect themself from the officers, neither of whom recorded the arrest on their body cameras. Foote testified they were booked into jail and were only able to wash the pepper spray from their eyes when they were released more than a day later. Did officers have probable cause for arrest? The jury heard two claims from Foote: that officers lacked legal cause to arrest them, and that they used excessive force. On the first claim, the city maintains the officers had evidence Foote had committed the crime of unlawful assembly: a gathering of three or more people, any one of whom is acting violently and intending to commit a crime. Mackel-Wiederanders said the officers saw Foote running away from the scene of the riot, wearing all-black clothing and with goggles with a bandana over their face. "Between what officers Holtan and Herman knew was happening, between what they observed of Ms. Foote, they had more than enough to find probable cause," she said. Messamer, though, said Foote committed no crime, and that even if they had, the officers can't justify their arrest based on information they didn't know at the time. "They didn't know if she was anywhere close to Hy-Vee. They didn't know if she was there with anyone else. They testified she was by herself," Messamer said in her closing argument. "So where's the evidence she committed any crime?" Were the officers justified in using force? As to whether the officers were justified in beating Foote, Messamer said video from that night shows officers pepper-spraying people downtown "willy-nilly" and that Foote posed no threat to anyone. "How many tough guys should it take to arrest a tiny, blinded young woman who's boxed in on three sides?" she asked. "Defendant Herman said his only choice was to hit her with his baton. What a joke." She accused the officers of taking out their frustration over the long night of unrest on the first target they found. "I understand they had a bad day, but you don't get to have a bad day at work and go home and beat your dog or your kid," she said. Mackel-Wiederanders, though, said that from the officers' perspective, Foote was resisting arrest and trying to escape. "The spray did not bring Ms. Foote to the ground. The shields did not bring Ms. Foote to the ground. The baton did," she said. "A small person can still make an arrest difficult." Foote sought nearly half million in damages Foote, who ran unsuccessfully for mayor in 2023, testified that they've spent four years dealing with crippling mental and physical challenges they attribute to their encounter with Herman and Holtan, including nightmares, panic attacks that prevented them from driving, and the aggravation of pre-existing back problems. Messamer had asked the jury for damages of at least $450,000 for past harms, and more for Foote's ongoing and future struggles. Mackel-Wiederanders, for her part, had argued Foote's health struggles predated Foote's arrest. William Morris covers courts for the Des Moines Register. He can be contacted at wrmorris2@registermedia.com or 715-573-8166. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: George Floyd protest arrest suit ends in verdict for Des Moines police Hours before taking the stage at an Atlanta rally on Saturday, Trump reignited his feud with Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp on his social media platform Truth Social, seemingly unprompted. Brian Kemp should focus his efforts on fighting Crime, not fighting Unity and the Republican Party! His Crime Rate in Georgia is terrible, his Crime Rate in Atlanta is the worst, and his Economy is average. Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger in his state capitol office in August, shortly before indictments over the states 2020 elections. The governor fired back on X, formerly Twitter, calling Trumps comments petty personal insults. My focus is on winning this November and saving our country from Kamala Harris and the Democrats - not engaging in petty personal insults, attacking fellow Republicans, or dwelling on the past, Kemp posted. You should do the same, Mr. President, and leave my family out of it. My focus is on winning this November and saving our country from Kamala Harris and the Democrats - not engaging in petty personal insults, attacking fellow Republicans, or dwelling on the past. You should do the same, Mr. President, and leave my family out of it. pic.twitter.com/m8y6CSuZKY Brian Kemp (@BrianKempGA) August 3, 2024 The social media posts are the latest in a years-long spat between Trump and the Georgia governor. Despite maintaining his popularity across the state, Kemp has been the target of Trumps disdain since the 2020 presidential election, when he refused to partake in Trumps alleged scheme to overturn the election results. The former president lost the Peach State by roughly 12,000 votes in 2020, a margin of 0.23%. At his rally, Trump emphasized the importance of winning Georgia in the 2024 election to thousands of voters at his rally, stressing, If we lose Georgia, we lose the whole thing, and our country goes to hell. In the same breath, he echoed the social media insults against Kemp: Hes a bad guy. Hes a disloyal guy, and hes a very average governor. Trumps comments sparked boos directed toward the governor across the packed arenas 8,000 attendees. He argued that Georgia had fallen behind in the last five years under Little Brian Kemp and his administration. The state has gone to hell, Trump said. Republican presidential nominee and former U.S. President Donald Trump gestures during a campaign rally held with Republican vice-presidential nominee Senator JD Vance, in Atlanta, Georgia on August 3, 2024. Trump continued his tirade against the states Republican leadership, dragging out another familiar adversary: Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. In my opinion, they want us to lose, Trump said of the pair at the rally. Without evidence, he accused Raffensperger and Kemp of orchestrating an effort to sway the election in favor of Democratic nominee Kamala Harris. He went on to falsely claim, I won this state twice, referring to the 2016 and 2020 elections. Georgia will likely be another highly contested race this year, as Trumps lead in the state has continued to slip since Harris entered the race. Based on the latest polling data from FiveThirtyEight on Monday, Harris trailed Trump by a single percentage point, 44.9% to Trumps 45.9%. There are two votes Trump already knows he wont be able to count onKemp and his wife, Marty. Kemp revealed that he did not vote for Trump in the Georgia primary. WABE also reported that Marty plans to write Brian Kemps name in for the ballot in November. Hed make a darn good president, Marty said of her husband. Melissa Cruz is an elections reporting fellow who focuses on voter access issues for the USA TODAY Network. You can reach her at mcruz@gannett.com or on X, formerly Twitter, at @MelissaWrites22. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump attacks Kemp, reigniting old feud with Georgia governor As Justice admin delays funding, group homes to close and displace adults with disabilities Ray Ratke, CEO of enCircle, stood in the Senate chamber before lawmakers and Department of Human Services leaders and pleaded for a reimbursement rate increase during interims on April 15, 2024, in Charleston, W.Va. (Will Price | West Virginia Legislative Photography) A few weeks ago, Gov. Jim Justice, who is running for an open U.S. Senate seat, asked the public to stay tuned regarding funding for programs that help people with disabilities. West Virginias low Medicaid reimbursement rate has led to staffing shortages for workers who help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) eat, bathe and live in home-like settings. As the Republican governor and the Department of Human Services havent yet addressed the rates, group homes in Martinsburg for about a dozen people with disabilities will close due to staffing shortages. Its awful. People we serve may have to locate hours away from their family or relocate to live with someone they dont know, said Ray Ratke, CEO of enCircle. The Virginia-based company operates the group homes under the name of Stonebrook. Half of the individuals have no family members who can care for them, he added, meaning they could end up in state-run institutions that were never meant to house individuals long term. Ratke said the closure, planned for Nov. 1, was due to the states failure to address the Medicaid reimbursement rate issue and raise worker pay rates. People we serve may have to locate hours away from their family or relocate to live with someone they dont know. Ray Ratke, CEO of enCircle West Virginia Behavioral Healthcare Providers Association CEO Brad Story said it wasnt likely other providers would be able to take the displaced Martinsburg patients as theyre all grappling with staffing shortages due to the reimbursement rate issue. In order to rehome or transfer a client, youve got to have another [provider] ready to provide this service. No one I know of is ready to accept clients right now. Its going to be very, very challenging, Story said. Theres a waitlist of more than 700 people for the states IDD waiver program, which allows them to access services like in-home care. A DoHS leader said in April that around 6,000 people were served by the program. Lawmakers bolstered IDD funding during the May special legislative session but didnt mandate how DoHS spent the money. Many argued the department already had the money to fund the increase but hadnt chosen to. West Virginia Watch reached out to DoHS for this story and asked if the closure was connected to the states Medicaid reimbursement rate issue. In an email, DoHS Director of Communications Whitney Wetzel said: The West Virginia Department of Human Services is aware of the closure and DoHS Bureau for Medical Services Commissioner Cindy Beane has met with the facility. We recommend reaching out to the facility for questions regarding its business decision to close. Rate increase could happen this fall, but is it soon enough? The state uses state and federal money from Medicaid to reimburse private companies that employ direct care workers. Caregivers currently earn around $11 an hour. A rate study last year suggested that a salary range should be closer to $15.50-$18.60 per hour. Ratke said his company, which plans to lay off around 65 workers, has struggled to staff in-home workers while paying $13.66 an hour particularly in the Eastern Panhandle where people can easily travel to nearby border states for higher pay. In April, he stood in the Senate chamber before lawmakers and DoHS leaders and pleaded for a reimbursement rate increase. He warned a closure could happen without an adequate fix. Its very frustrating and disheartening we have been working for two years educating legislators and the governors office about this issue, Ratke said on Monday. After slashing IDD funding during the regular legislative session, lawmakers in May passed a bill that gave DoHS roughly $180 million in a reserve for department leaders to dip into for limited reasons when needed. It could be used on the Medicaid reimbursement rates. Lawmakers were wary about giving DoHS money for the reimbursement rate after learning in April that the department previously spent millions of dollars earmarked for people with disabilities on things like in-home COVID-19 tests and contract nurses salaries. Leaders with DoHS have told lawmakers, lobbyists and West Virginia Watch that theyre considering a reimbursement rate increase that would go into effect in October. Story was hopeful that providers would see a rate increase. Were thankful theyre going to give us that, and [DoHS Secretary] Cynthia Persily has taken every meeting weve asked for, he said. Under current regulations, private companies wouldnt be required to spend the rate increase money on staff raises, though many have committed to it. Other providers, including those that serve elderly residents through the states Aged and Disabled Waiver Program, have also said they need a rate increase. For Ratke and the individuals he serves, the possible increase may come too late. He stressed that these individuals are receiving necessary state-funded care due no fault of their own. Institutionalized individuals, he noted, will cost the state much more than properly funding community-based services like the ones he plans to shutter. You can either serve people and serve them well, or you can run into problems and have to pay much more, he said. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST WASHINGTON (AP) Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas failed to publicly disclose additional travel on GOP megadonor Harlan Crows private jet, a top Democratic senator who is backing an election-year push to tighten the high courts ethics rules said Monday. Thomas and his wife, Virginia, took a round-trip flight between Hawaii and New Zealand in November 2010, according to international flight records maintained by Customs and Border Protection, Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., wrote. Hurricane Debby blew $1 million worth of cocaine onto Florida beach The letter to Crows lawyer is part of an inquiry that Wyden, the chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, opened after several reports that Thomas had for years received undisclosed luxury travel from Crow. Wydens letter demands additional information about private jet and superyacht trips. I am deeply concerned that Mr. Crow may have been showering a public official with extravagant gifts, then writing off those gifts to lower his tax bill, he wrote. The letter was first reported by The New York Times. A spokesman for Crow said he has always followed tax law and Wydens inquiries have no legal basis. Its concerning that Senator Wyden is abusing his committees powers as part of a politically motivated campaign against the Supreme Court, said spokesman Michael Zona in a statement. The Senate Judiciary Committee previously uncovered at least three additional trips in its own investigation, including to Indonesia and California. Democrats, including President Joe Biden, are separately pushing for changes to the high court, and seeking to capture voter attention in an election year after ethical revelations about some justices, including trips by Thomas and Justice Samuel Alito. In recent days, Justice Elena Kagan has voiced support for an enforceable ethics code for her and her colleagues. Justice Neil Gorsuch, in an interview with The Associated Press last week, declined to comment on proposals on ethics and term limits for the high court. Justices fill out financial disclosure forms each year detailing any outside sources of income or gifts. The form Thomas filled out in 2010 does not list any flights aboard Crows jet, Wyden wrote. TAMPA BAY RAIN TOTALS: Check how much fell in your city during Tropical Storm Debby Thomas did not immediately respond to a request for comment sent to the court. The justice, 76, has maintained that he is not required to disclose the many trips because they amount to personal hospitality from a close friend without business before the court. The November 2010 trip came a month after Thomas flew to the capital of Trinidad and Tobago, on a private plane owned by his friends, Anthony and Beatrice Welters, the Times has previously reported. Anthony Welters was serving as the American ambassador to the country in the Caribbean, having been appointed by President Barack Obama. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. Justice Neil Gorsuch is defending the Supreme Courts controversial decision to grant sweeping immunity to former President Donald Trump in a series of interviews, at one point framing the ruling as an extension of precedent. Gorsuch, who was Trumps first nominee to the high court, told Fox News in an interview this week that the decision in Trumps election subversion case was a natural extension of a 1982 precedent that granted former President Richard Nixon and his successors immunity from civil lawsuits for their official actions. Though justices rarely grant interviews, they often sit for questions when promoting a book. In Gorsuchs case, the timing happens to coincide with the end of a contentious term in early July and continuing fallout from the divisive ruling for Trump, which has reenergized calls on the left for structural changes and ethics reform for the Supreme Court. Gorsuch cited Nixon v. Fitzgerald in the interview, saying the court was concerned at the time that unfettered civil lawsuits would chill a president from exercising the powers of the presidency. Hed be overwhelmed, Gorsuch told Fox. All the court did in this case was simply apply that same precedent and idea to the criminal context. In the Nixon case, the high court steered clear of questions about criminal immunity for former presidents. In the Trump case, special counsel Jack Smith argued that future presidents were unlikely to face politically motivated prosecutions a position the Supreme Courts 6-3 conservative majority ultimately found unpersuasive. In addition to granting Trump and his successors immunity for most official actions, the Supreme Courts decision last month also limited Smiths ability to present evidence of that conduct as he attempts to prosecute Trump for unofficial actions he took after the 2020 election. The election subversion case is now back in the hands of US District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who has scheduled an August 16 hearing to consider how to move forward. Gorsuch also addressed the immunity decision in an interview with the AP, describing it as a grave question with grave implications. But reporting from CNN suggests the nine justices quickly split along ideological lines in the case, and that Chief Justice John Roberts made little effort to find a middle ground outcome that might have appealed to the courts three liberals. Roberts, according to sources familiar with the negotiations, believed he could persuade people to look beyond Trump. The decision prompted President Joe Biden to propose term limits for Supreme Court justices and a constitutional amendment to strip presidents of immunity from criminal prosecution. Those proposals are unlikely to advance because they are viewed by most Republicans as a power grab. Gorsuchs new book, Over Ruled: The Human Toll of Too Much Law, published Tuesday. In it, the justice focuses on the stories of Americans ensnared in what he describes as an explosion of regulations and federal laws. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas failed to publicly disclose additional travel provided by GOP mega-donor Harlan Crow, a top Democratic senator said Monday, adding to the mounting scrutiny the high court faces over its ethics practices. In a Monday letter to Crows lawyer, Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said the committees review of international flight records from Customs and Border Protection found Thomas and his wife, Virginia, traveled on a round-trip flight between Hawaii and New Zealand in November 2010. To date, Justice Thomas has never disclosed this private jet travel on any financial disclosure forms, even though Justice Thomas has amended disclosures to reflect other international travel on Mr. Crows private jet, Wyden wrote. Justices are required to file financial disclosure forms each year that include any external sources of income or gifts. Thomass latest financial disclosure included an amendment to a filing made half a decade ago to include two trips paid for by Crow, but did not address the November 2010 round-trip flights, Wyden said. The New York Times first reported Wydens letter. The flights are the latest instance of Thomas failing to disclose trips paid for by Crow. It comes less than two months after the Senate Judiciary Committee found Thomas did not disclose an additional three trips he took on private jets funded by Crow in 2017, 2019 and 2021. Wyden said he was deeply concerned Crow was giving Thomas, a public official, extravagant gifts in order to write them off to lower his tax bill. The Oregon Democrat requested Crows lawyer send over additional information about the private jet and superyacht trips. A spokesperson for Crow said the mega-donor has already addressed Senator Wydens inquiries, which have no legal basis and are only intended to harass a private citizen. Congress has no role in tax enforcement. Mr. Crow and his businesses are in good standing with the IRS, the spokesperson added. He has always followed applicable tax law as advised by national accounting firms who serve as his tax advisors. Its concerning that Senator Wyden is abusing his committees powers as part of a politically motivated campaign against the Supreme Court. The Hill has reached out to the Supreme Court and Thomass lawyer for comment. Thomas, 76, has maintained in the past he is not required to disclose the various trips because they are considered personal hospitality from a close friend without business before the court, The Associated Press reported. The Supreme Court and its justices have faced increasing criticism over the past year after ProPublica published a series of investigative reports last year detailing various undisclosed luxury trips, gifts, and questionable extrajudicial activities involving Thomas and other justices. The reports delved into the billionaires, including Crow, behind these gifts and free travel over the years in a series titled Friends of the Court. President Biden last week revealed his threefold proposal to reform the high court, including 18-year term limits for the nine justices, which would enable a sitting president to appoint a new justice every two years. The proposal also includes a binding code of conduct. There is also an ongoing effort among Senate Democrats to pass a Supreme Court ethics package. Democrats attempted to move the bill, authored by Senate Judiciary Chair Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), on the floor via unanimous consent, but it was blocked by Republicans. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign rally, July 30, 2024, in Atlanta. Harris, the daughter of immigrants who rose through the California political and law enforcement ranks to become the first female vice president in U.S. history, is poised to secure the Democratic Party's presidential nomination, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. | John Bazemore Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic nominee for president, is expected to announce her running mate on Tuesday. Last week, the Harris campaign announced she and her unnamed running mate would crisscross the country this week in a tour of battleground states, beginning with an event Tuesday evening in Philadelphia. But she has yet to officially announce who that running mate will be. Harris, who was nominated during a virtual delegate vote last week, interviewed three potential picks on Sunday: Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro; Sen. Mark Kelly, R-Arizona; and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the New York Times reported. By Monday afternoon, Reuters reported that Harris had narrowed her consideration to Shapiro and Walz. Other rumored candidates include Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg; Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear; and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. That Harris five-day, seven-state swing this week begins in Pennsylvania has led some to speculate Shapiro will be the pick. Shapiro won his campaign for Pennsylvania governor in 2022 by 15 points against a Trump-endorsed challenger. In 2020, running for reelection as the states attorney general, he won more votes than any statewide candidate in Pennsylvania history. That year, he outperformed Biden, who ran for president on the same ballot, by a wide margin; in 2016, his first election, he outperformed Clinton. But Shapiros place atop Harris shortlist has caused intraparty rifts. Some progressives have challenged his support for Israel, going as far to launch a No Genocide Josh movement. Shapiros allies have chalked the opposition up to antisemitism; Shapiro is Jewish. Aides to Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman warned Harris team not to select Shapiro, expressing concern the governor is excessively focused on his own personal ambition, Politico reported. But selecting Shapiro could be a strategic move in a razor-thin election: Pennsylvania is a battleground state in the 2024, and it has more electoral votes (19) than any of the other swing states. Walz, meanwhile, is a former U.S. Army National Guard member and high school teacher. While Minnesota is not a battleground state, two other proximate Midwestern states are: Michigan and Wisconsin. Did you know that Florida, California, Texas and New York have economies so big that if they were countries, they would rank in the top 20 in the world? In June, WalletHub released a study that ranked Floridas economy the seventh-best in the U.S. Within that study, Florida topped an individual category, placing as the state with the most startup activity. Here are the top five states with the most startup activity in 2024, according to WalletHubs state-by-state economy rankings list, and five Florida startups to watch. Is Florida good for startups? According to WalletHubs rankings list of the states with the best and worst economies, Florida is the state with the most startup activity. Utah takes second place and Nevada slides into third. Here are the top five states for startup activity, according to WalletHub: Florida Utah Nevada Idaho Colorado Here are the bottom five states for startup activity, according to WalletHub: West Virginia Wisconsin Vermont Iowa Hawaii What are the top startups in Florida right now? Crunchbase is an online platform that aggregates information about companies and startups to help investors, business people and researchers with market research. Crunchbases company profiles include a wealth of information, from each companys funding and investment data, to a breakdown of who owns, operates and works at the company. Here is Crunchbases list of the top five startups headquartered in Florida that have been trending up for the last 30 days: Star Catcher: Star Catcher is an energy startup based in Jacksonville, Florida. According to the companys website, Star Catcher is creating the first energy grid for space. Our orbital infrastructure will transform how satellites are powered. Star Catcher was founded this year and announced in July that it received just over $12 million in its seed funding round. Breakout Trading Group: Breakout Trading Group is a crypto-focused financial services startup based in the Tampa Bay area. According to its Crunchbase profile, the evaluation-based prop firm allows users to trade global markets and gain access to real payouts, and was founded in 2023. Tastes Pretty Good: Tastes Pretty Good is a restaurant group based out of the Tampa area, founded by the CEO of PDQ, Nick Reader (who is a University of Florida alumnus). The groups two restaurants, Rocca and Streetlight Taco, have both been recognized by the Michelin Guide, according to Readers Linkedin bio. Exitoweb: Exitoweb is a private Miami-based website development agency founded in 2020. GalenusRX: GalenusRX is a private healthcare company based in Fernandina Beach, founded in 2023. According to Pitchbook, the company analyzes, personalizes and optimizes medication regimens by holistically assessing individual regimens and ensuring patients receive appropriate, safe and optimally effective treatments. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Florida startup companies trended up in July. Where state ranks "Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." After days of speculation about which way shed lean when choosing her running mate, Kamala Harris has made her announcement: Tim Walz is her vice presidential pick. The announcement today comes days after Harris was officially named the Democratic Partys candidate for president following a vote by party delegates. While voting did not close until this Monday, by Friday, Harris had already garnered the votes necessary to become the nominee. Three other candidates did not secure the necessary signatures to appear on the party ballot. Walz, who has been governor of Minnesota since 2019, is one in a pool of experienced politicians whose names circulated in the media for days as potential VP candidates. These included Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, U.S. Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. A former educator who also served in the Army National Guard, Walz is currently in his second term as governor and chairs the Democratic Governors Association. Previously, he served 12 years in Congress, racking up a consistently progressive voting record while representing a conservative-leaning district. Harriss decision comes after she spent the weekend conducting interviews with contenders at her Washington, D.C. home, per various news outletsand just in time for her to settle into her campaign with Walz ahead of the Democratic National Convention, which starts on August 19 in Chicago. Harris and her potential VP are now expected to tour battleground states around the country to secure votes for their partyand against Republican nominee Donald Trump. I will do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Partyand unite our nationto defeat Donald Trump and his extreme Project 2025 agenda. We have 107 days until Election Day. Together, we will fight. And together, we will win, Harris said in her first speech after announcing her run for president. You Might Also Like (Bloomberg) -- Vice President Kamala Harris choice for her running mate came down to two governors one who offered to deliver the most populous 2024 battleground but threatened to alienate important party factions, and a little-known contender with progressive credentials from a reliably blue state. Most Read from Bloomberg In the end, Harris bypassed the pick from a more politically valuable state Pennsylvanias Josh Shapiro for Minnesotas Tim Walz, opting for a folksy governor whose mocking of Republicans Donald Trump and JD Vance as weird became a rallying cry for Democrats. Walzs selection completes a two-week makeover of the Democratic ticket after President Joe Biden ended his reelection bid, and it focuses the partys hopes of defeating Trump on turning out the very progressive voters and rank-and-file labor members whose support for the sitting president had eroded. Walzs task is clear: Bring back Democratic blocs who drifted from Biden, while sharpening the partys message on the economy a defining issue to expand the partys appeal in states including Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin. The potential for Walz to unite the partys base and expand its appeal was immediately evident by the support he received from independent Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia a onetime centrist Democrat and Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, a liberal firebrand. Manchin said Walz could bring normality back to the most chaotic political environment many have seen. Ocasio-Cortez said Harris and Walz would govern effectively, inclusively, and boldly, calling his addition to the ticket an excellent decision in a post on X. The pick is in some ways symbolic of the way in which Harris candidacy has upended an electoral map that just last month had Republicans eying Minnesota as a potential pickup. Walz, 60, demonstrated his plain-spoken approach, which helped him win six terms in the House from a rural, conservative-leaning district and two terms as governor, ahead of his selection. These guys are just weird, Walz said, an insult casting Trump as out-of-the-norm and energizing Democrats who often struggled to find the right counter to the former president. Trump, a convicted felon who espouses policies that offer to test the boundaries of US law, was the frontrunner against Biden for much of the summer. Labor-Friendly Walz was hailed by progressives and leaders of organized labor, who had pushed for his selection. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler praised him Tuesday as a labor champion who will stand up for working people. As governor, Walz signed legislation providing free breakfast and lunch to students, and expanded child care and paid family and medical leave achievements Democrats hope resonate with voters hard-hit by high prices and anxiety over jobs and wages. Pocketbook issues will be central to Democratic messaging as Harris looks to counter one of her biggest liabilities voter dismay with Bidens handling of the economy. Earlier: Harris Taps Minnesotas Walz in Appeal to Blue-Collar Workers Trump has made inroads with blue-collar workers, an effort Republicans sought to bolster with Vances starkly populist economic approach. Vances message is one Walz will be tasked with countering. While Harris can boast endorsements from union leaders, support has been less solid among labors rank-and-file who are wary of the Biden administrations clean energy push. Ticket Balance Walz emerged from a shortlist of mostly White, male elected officials, including Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, seen as bringing balance to an already historic ticket. Harris is seeking to become the first Black woman and first Asian-American US president. Before entering politics, Walz served in the Army National Guard and worked as a high-school teacher. In the House, he focused largely on the military and veterans as well as agricultural issues areas where he can bolster Harris standing. Hes often displayed an independent streak earning an endorsement from the National Rifle Association before going on to back gun restrictions, and as one of a handful of Democrats who once voted to hold then-Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt. Holder would go on to lead Harris vetting of running mates. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi praised Walz Tuesday. Growing up as a child working on the farm, Governor Tim Walz knows the heartland of America, she said in a statement. Carrying Walzs own state offers to be an afterthought for Democrats. Minnesota last voted for a Republican for president in 1972, when Richard Nixon carried the state in a national landslide. Neighboring Wisconsin, though, is a swing state and Walzs birthplace of Nebraska does not award its five electoral votes on a winner-take-all basis, leaving room for a pick-up. Earlier: Walzs Folksy Appeal Makes Him Contender for Harris Running Mate Shapiro offered to deliver the party Pennsylvania, which has the most Electoral College votes of the seven battleground states, but his support for Israel in its war against Hamas threatened to spur a revolt from the Democratic left. Vance criticized Harris for not picking Shapiro, blaming antisemitism in their own caucus in an interview with radio host Hugh Hewitt. GOP Attacks One challenge Walz must overcome is the lack of a national profile. An ABC News/Ipsos poll of American adults from July 26-27 found 57% said they didnt know what impression they had of Walz, and almost one-third had no opinion of him. Republicans delighted in the pick, attacking Walz as too liberal for voters and resurfacing images of civil unrest in his state after the murder of George Floyd signaling that crime and race will be persistent themes in the election. Trump at a July rally in Minnesota cast Walz as failing to control the protests in 2020. When the violent mobs of anarchists and looters and Marxists came to burn down Minneapolis four years ago, remember me, I couldnt get your governor to act, Trump said. In a bid to define Walz, Trumps campaign labeled him a dangerously liberal extremist in a statement Tuesday and a video assailed him as a rubber stamp for Harris agenda. Walz, the chair of the Democratic Governors Association, was also criticized by their counterparts the Republican Governors Association. His record shows that he consistently backs the most liberal policies that national Democrats have to offer, RGA Executive Director Sara Craig said in a memo. Hell get his first test Tuesday evening at a Philadelphia rally, as he looks to introduce himself to voters. Republican former Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty said Walz could deliver Harris liberal philosophy with a different style. Hes like Bernie Sanders in hunting gear, Pawlenty said. --With assistance from Mark Niquette, Billy House, Zach C. Cohen, Eric Martin and Hadriana Lowenkron. (Updates with Manchin and Ocasio-Cortez remarks starting in fifth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz appear on stage together during a campaign event on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) PHILADELPHIA Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz appeared together in Philadelphia Tuesday at a rally on Temple Universitys campus, the first time she has visited Pennsylvania as the Democrats presumptive nominee for president. Its been less than a month since Harris last visit to the City of Brotherly Love, but in that time shes gone from being President Joe Bidens running mate to leading at the top of the ticket. The speculation about Harris running mate reached a fever pitch on Monday, with observers looking for any clue about who her pick would be. On Tuesday morning, she ended the guessing, announcing she had chosen Walz. The running mates took the stage at the Liacouras Center to raucous applause from the full arena, with Freedom by Beyonce playing. We are the underdogs in this race. But we have the momentum, and I know exactly what we are up against, Harris said. She said in her past roles as a prosecutor and senator she took on perpetrators of all kinds: predators who abused women, fraudsters who scammed consumers, cheaters who broke the rules for their own gain. So hear me when I say: I know Donald Trumps type. But her campaign is not just a fight against Trump, Harris added, Its a fight for the future. Harris described Walzs career path as a teacher and high school football coach, taking a winless team to a state championship. He also championed students who were struggling with acceptance, she added, becoming the faculty advisor for students who wanted to start a support group for LGBTQ students. Tim knew the signal that it would send to have a football coach get involved, Harris said. Tim Walz was the kind of teacher and mentor that every child in America dreams of having, and that every kid deserves that kind of coach, because hes the kind of person who makes people feel like they belong, and then inspires them to dream big. And thats the kind of vice president he will be. When Walz took the stage, he began by praising Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who was also a finalist for the VP role. He can bring the fire. This is a visionary leader, Walz said. Also, I have to tell you, everybody in America knows when you need a bridge fixed call that guy, in an apparent reference to Shapiros work to get a section of Interstate 95 reopened in 12 days after it was damaged in a fiery crash in 2023. He thanked Harris for bringing back the joy to the race for the White House. Walz touched on several issues that illustrated his record as a lawmaker. He said he was old enough to remember when it was Republicans who were talking about freedom. It turns out now, what they meant was the government should be free to invade your doctors office. In Minnesota, we respect our neighbors and their personal choices that they make, even if we wouldnt make the same choice for ourselves. He also spoke about the challenges he and his wife Gwen had using in-vitro fertilization to start their family. We spent years going through infertility treatments, and I remember praying every night for a call for good news, the pit in my stomach when the phone rang and the agony when we heard that the treatments hadnt worked, Walz said. So it wasnt by chance that when we welcomed our daughter into the world, we named her Hope. When the vice president and I talk about freedom, we mean the freedom to make your own health care decisions, and for our children to be free to go to school without worrying theyll be shot dead in their classrooms, Walz added. Walz next turned his focus on GOP vice presidential candidate, U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio, mocking his oft-told origin story of growing up in rural Ohio. Like all regular people I grew up with in the heartland, J.D. studied at Yale, had his career funded by Silicon Valley billionaires, and then wrote a best seller trashing that community, Walz said. Come on, thats not what Middle America is. And I gotta tell you, I cant wait to debate the guy that is if hes willing to get off the couch and show up. The Harris campaign said there were 14,000 people at Temple either watching the rally at the Liacouras Center, or in an overflow room at nearby McGonigle Hall. Shapiro warmed up the crowd before Harris and Walz took the stage. The fired-up audience began a chant of hes a weirdo when he mentioned Vance, a call-back to comments Walz made and that the Harris campaign has run with, branding Trump and Vance as weird. I love you, Philly. And you know, what else I love? I love being your Governor, Shapiro said. I want you to know I am going to continue to pour my heart and soul into serving you every single day as your governor, and Im going to be working my tail off to make sure we make Kamala Harris and Tim Walz the next leaders of the United States of America. If Shapiro was disappointed to not get the VP nod, however, he did not show it, thanking the audience and praising the Democratic ticket. Let me tell you about my friend, Kamala Harris, someone Ive been friends with for two decades, Shapiro said. She is courtroom tough. She has a big heart, and she is battle tested and ready to go. Whether in a courtroom, whether fighting as attorney general, whether remembering the people who have oftentimes been left behind when she was sitting in the halls of power in the Senate, Kamala Harris has always understood that you got to be, every day, for the people. Former President Donald Trumps campaign released a statement shortly after the Walz news was announced Tuesday. Its no surprise that San Francisco Liberal Kamala Harris wants West Coast wannabe Tim Walz as her running-mate Walz has spent his governorship trying to reshape Minnesota in the image of the Golden State, Trump campaign Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement. Walz is obsessed with spreading Californias dangerously liberal agenda far and wide. If Walz wont tell voters the truth, we will: just like Kamala Harris, Tim Walz is a dangerously liberal extremist, and the Harris-Walz California dream is every Americans nightmare. Walz gets positive response U.S. Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-4th District) said after the rally that she had been pulling for Shapiro to get the VP nod, but was impressed with Harris pick. I was a hometown girl for Josh, but I think this is a terrific combination and Josh will be right by their side, lifting up this ticket, Dean said. This is a ticket that believes in the American values of small d, democracy, rule of law and freedom. It couldnt be a greater contrast, so this was spectacular. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, the citys 100th mayor and the first Black woman to hold the position, was the first local elected official to speak at the rally on Tuesday. I need you to know that this is a history-making day here in Philadelphia and in our country because we are on the cusp of electing our Vice President Kamala Harris to be the 47th president of the United States of America, Harris said, to big applause. Parker praised Harris record as vice president and noted they are both divine nine sisters and graduates of Historically Black colleges and universities. Parker warned about staying focused on the race. Dont let Trump the trickster take our eyes off the prize, Parker said. We have to remember that there is nothing that is more important than electing the Harris-Walz team and taking them where they belong, to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House. Carlos Ruiz III of Philadelphia told the Capital-Star that prior to the rally his first choice for vice president was Shapiro, but after doing some research on Walz, he liked what he read and is happy with the pick. I think one of the, one of the groups of voters that she was probably going to have a hard time connecting with was older white voters, and I think thats probably why she leaned towards Gov. Walz Ruiz said. And hes very relatable, seems like the everyday kind of guy, and I think thats going to bring what was missing to the ticket. Jane Poblano, a teacher from Montgomery County, told the Capital-Star that Walz seems like a great guy, very humble, and offered words of encouragement to him joining the ticket. I think its a good choice, Poblano said. She had a lot of good choices. How it started/How its going The month of July began with Biden trailing in the polls after a poor debate performance in late June raised concerns about whether he could beat GOP nominee Donald Trump. Two days before the Republican National Convention, a gunman shot at Trump during a rally in Butler, killing one rally-goer and injuring two others. The following weekend, Biden bowed out of the race and immediately endorsed Harris, with Democrats quickly coalescing behind her candidacy. Late Monday, the Democratic National Committee announced Harris had secured the support of 99% of delegates to formally become the partys presidential nominee, following the conclusion of a five-day virtual vote. She is expected to formally accept the nomination at the Democratic National Convention later this month. The Biden-Harris campaign raised $284.1 million between January 2023 and June 30, 2024, while Trumps campaign raised $217.2 million during that time period. Trump entered July with $128.1 million on hand, while Bidens campaign had $96 million on hand. But Harris raised $310 million in July according to her campaign, while Trumps campaign said it raised $138 million. And although the election is still less than three months away, Pennsylvanians are already being inundated with ads and will continue to be throughout the campaign. AdImpact data showed that Trump and Harris are slated to spend more than twice as much on advertising in Pennsylvania as any of the other pivotal battleground states. Another race in the commonwealth garnering a lot off ad spending is Democratic U.S. Sen. Bob Caseys bid for a fourth term against Republican challenger Dave McCormick. At the rally on Tuesday, Casey praised Harris record as a prosecutor putting away dangerous criminals, to her time in the United States Senate and as vice president, fighting for womens rights, voting rights, and workers rights. He also told the crowd that they couldnt trust McCormick, referencing his recent previous residency in Connecticut and work as a hedge fund manager. McCormick, who was also in Philadelphia on Tuesday, sent out a statement earlier in the day calling Harris-Walz the most liberal presidential ticket in history and linked them with Casey on border policies, inflation, energy production, and other issues. Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.), delivered brief remarks at the rally on Tuesday noting that hes a yinzer, Steelers and Sheetz guy, referencing his roots on the opposite side of the commonwealth which drew boos from the crowd he said they were all on team Harris/Walz, which drew applause. This election is about moving our country forward with Vice President Harris and Gov. Walz, Fetterman said. Or a couple of really really really really weird dudes. After Fetterman exited the stage, some E-A-G-L-E-S chants broke out. While most of the states delegation backed Shapiro to join the ticket, Fetterman had reportedly voiced concerns about having him in the role. Prior to Bidens exit from the race, Trump was consistently polling slightly ahead of Biden in Pennsylvania. However, since Harris emerged as the presumptive nominee, some polling shows the race in a statistical tie. One of the things that stood out to me about Tim is how his convictions on fighting for middle class families run deep. Its personal, Harris said in a statement Tuesday, offering praise for Walzs record as governor, including passing a law to provide paid family and medical leave and making Minnesota the first state in the country to pass a law providing constitutional abortion protections, and a bill requiring universal background checks for gun purchases. Tuesday is Harris seventh visit to Pennsylvania this year, according to the campaign. Her most recent appearance in the commonwealth was on July 13 in Philadelphia to court Asian-American voters. Shes also campaigned this cycle in Pittsburgh to tout the administrations infrastructure investments, in Philadelphia to talk student debt with educators, and in Montgomery County to speak in support of reproductive rights. Harris has been the Biden administrations primary voice on abortion rights, particularly in the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Courts Dobbs decision that overturned Roe v. Wade. And in case anyone doubted Philadelphias importance in the 2024 race, Vance was in Philadelphia on Tuesday as well, for his first campaign event in Pennsylvania. Trump was most recently in the state last Wednesday for an indoor rally in Harrisburg, his first campaign stop in the Keystone State since the assassination attempt. Harriss campaign swing with her running mate begins in Pennsylvania, then shes scheduled to campaign in other key battleground states over the next few days. Planned campaign stops in Georgia and North Carolina were postponed due to Hurricane Debby. Trump and Vance are also slated to make appearances in key battleground states later this week. This article was updated throughout the day on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, with a final update at 9 p.m. Pennsylvania Capital-Star is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Pennsylvania Capital-Star maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Kim Lyons for questions: info@penncapital-star.com. Follow Pennsylvania Capital-Star on Facebook and X. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Kamala Harris campaign didnt waste any time going for cat lovers after announcing Tim Walz as her running mate Tuesday morning. The Democratic presidential campaign posted a video montage on social media showing several pics of the Minnesota governors rescue cat, Afton, and the purr-fect caption, Cat people for Harris-Walz. The video was both an appeal to cat fans and a way to troll Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance, who has come under fire for saying childless cat ladies were running the country, of whom he included Harris. (Harris has two stepchildren and does not own a cat.) Vance, a Republican senator from Ohio, has been blaming cat people for the state of the American family since at least 2021, but theres been a backlash to his resurfaced comments, which the Harris campaign is using to its advantage, as you can see below. Cat people for Harris-Walz pic.twitter.com/Z88By4yrSD Kamala HQ (@KamalaHQ) August 6, 2024 Apparently the orange tabbys montage got the vote of many cat owners and other animal lovers to boot. Walz owns a dog AND a cat. Basic nightmare for Trump and Vance, the most anti-pet ticket in American history https://t.co/Y2r086pra6 Susan Glasser (@sbg1) August 6, 2024 Our cats and couches are safe with #HarrisWalz pic.twitter.com/dF5EqKyFyO Christine Pelosi (@sfpelosi) August 6, 2024 So basically got all the votes of the Swifties Queen Iseabail, the Sassy Lassy (@bandrui0) August 6, 2024 cats for harris zoom call asap coinmon (@therealCoinmon) August 6, 2024 Cats out of the bag! The PURPLE wave is about to make landfall on the United States. Were headed for a purr-fect future where the opposition will be hiss-terical! Lets claw our way to victory! Wall Street Bronze (@wsbronze) August 6, 2024 kittens rise up Angelica Reed (@Angelica_Reed1) August 6, 2024 Is it significant that both Kamala Harris & Tim Walz love cats? I think there might be something to it...#HarrisWalzForTheWinpic.twitter.com/p3o4QnSpF6 Monica Tomosy (@MTomosy) August 6, 2024 Walz is a cat guy. Thats all I need to know. Cat guys are good people. #HarrisWalz2024#CatLadiesForKamalapic.twitter.com/wdbQKbmn1X Tatyana (@abbey_normal__) August 6, 2024 Related... This article is part of The D.C. Brief, TIMEs politics newsletter. Sign up here to get stories like this sent to your inbox. If the Upper Midwest is the fail-safe for Democrats Blue Wall, then Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz may serve as a break-in-case-of-emergency tool. Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris selected Walz, a popular former congressman and ex-high school civics teacher, as her running mate and will introduce him to the nation at a rally Tuesday evening in Philadelphia. In picking Walz, Harris follows the tried-and-true winning rules of picking a running mate: first do no harm, and, second, never make voters wish the names were reversed. They are set to cover the map of up-for-grabs states in coming days: Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada. Walz, 60, emerged as a late-rising contender for the gig in a field full of higher-wattage contenders like Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear. But Walzs plain-spoken demeanor, his five terms in the U.S. House, and two successful runs for Governor helped Harris to cast him in the role she currently fills as the understudy for the presidency. Advisers say his chemistry with Harris helped to cement the decision over the weekend and outside allieseven those who previously harbored doubts about his one-time support from the NRA and his moderate tendencieswere expected to quickly fall in line, part of a Democratic retrofitting that followed President Joe Bidens surprise decision to forego re-nomination himself. To be sure, Walz is hardly a dynamo who will guarantee Democrats fortunes. He may take Minnesota off Republicans dream mapno Republican has won the states electoral votes since 1972but he doesnt fix Democrats weaknesses in other parts of his region, let alone necessarily boost their ambitions for Pennsylvania, Georgia, or North Carolina. He doesnt hurt anywhere but he certainly doesnt heal anywhere, either. While Harris polling has markedly improved upon Bidensespecially with younger voters, women, and communities of colorshe is far from a sure-fire win in the contest against former President Donald Trump. Harris and Trump are still within a sneeze of each other in battleground states, and Trump has a slight and persistent advantage in them. For his part, Walz has already proven himself a capable wingman. Armchair pundits credited Walzs rise to his use of the jab weird to describe Republican positions and general vibe these days, a ding that clicked throughout a party struggling to find a concise description of Trumpism and MAGA ideology. Others may now be using the same playbook, but it was Walzs deliveryfairly or notthat resonated with a level of authenticity thats unmatched when others lean on a similar corny script. While Walzs Midwestern knack distilled a message for his party, that ultimately mattered less than this one truth that Harris knows all too well: the person in the Oval Office and the person in the room down the hall and to the right need to be able to be in sync. A bad blend can result in the misfortune that was Harris first stretch in the West Wing as an often isolated member of Bidens outer orbit. Late to rise into her own lane, Harris nonetheless has perhaps learned the most important lesson available to any Vice President: the role can be a lonely one if defined solely by its relationship to the one gig that outranks it. Harris decision faced intense lobbying unlike any seen in recent years. Shapiro could have made history as the first successful Jewish person to win the vice presidency, but faced not-at-all-subtle criticism for his steady support for Israelalthough his criticism of Hamas and those who fail to condemn its terrorist attacks is not far from Walzs own stance, which stems from his visits to the region and with Jewish groups at home. Shapiro also drew harsh scrutiny for his time on Pennsylvanias parole board and his support for school vouchers, which put him on the wrong side of the states powerful teacher unions. His criticism of Hamas in particular seemed disqualifying for many younger voters, especially in Muslim and Arab communities. At the same time, Harris was cautioned against Kelly over his support for efforts to curb some gun availability. Kelly, a retired Navy pilot and astronaut, partnered with his wife, former Rep. Gabby Giffords, to reset gun rights in this country after she was the target of an assassination attempt during a supermarket visit. Unions also told Harris they were dubious about his allyship for their agenda. And with Beshear, they had a red-state Governor who nevertheless would do nothing to move Kentucky from the crimson column. A natural political talent and infinitely likable, Harris orbit thought it best to keep him in reserve for now. Others, like Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, will have to wait at least four more years before chasing their own national ambitions. And yet others like North Carolina Gov. Rory Cooper and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer took themselves out of the running and didnt file their vetting paperwork with former Attorney General Eric Holder, who ran the process the way he did for then-Sen. Barack Obama. In Walz, Harris found a reliable avatar who placated most of the Democratic Partys blocs. While he often disagreed with progressives in his state, he also leaned into their instincts once he found himself governor with Democrats in charge of the state House and Senate. For instance, he not only signed into law a measure to protect abortion rights and provide free school meals for students, he also made legal recreational marijuana a reality. While he was an A-rated member of the House from the NRA, that quickly became a failing grade as Governor as he off-loaded the gun lobbyists donations after the 2017 mass shooting in Las Vegas and backed a 2018 ban on assault weapons after the school shooting in Parkland, Fla. When given a free hand, he revealed himself as an ally liberals could find reliable. Even so, his handling of the protests after George Floyds death by dispatching the National Guard will now earn closer scrutiny and perhaps betray his new reputation as a pal to the post-2020 Democratic identity. Still, Walz is far from the salve Democrats need. While Bidens exit is expected to calm jitters about Minnesotas tilt to Republican control and Walz can shore-up support in his backyard, fellow Blue Wall bricks like Wisconsin and Michigan in his region remain iffy. Pennsylvania, too, is a jump ball, which is why Harris and Walz are expected to debut as the ticket there on Tuesday before jetting off to other battlegrounds to start the march toward the convention in Chicago in less than two weeks and Election Day in fewer than 100 days. In Walz, Harris signaled with her first major act of potential governing how she would approach a White House under her management. It was a responsible choice at first glance, and one that matched her own experiences four years ago when Biden elevated her out of the Senate: help the top of the ticket, never overshine the boss, and do a steady best not to alienate any of the must-have constituencies in the Democratic Party. As a bonus: the presidential nominee might even like her potential replacement. Make sense of what matters in Washington. Sign up for the D.C. Brief newsletter. Write to Philip Elliott at philip.elliott@time.com. Kamala Harris identity as a biracial woman is either a strength or a weakness, depending on whom you ask Who is Kamala Harris? Though Harris has had a very public life in politics for decades, speculation about who exactly she is and what she stands for has circulated across social media platforms and news stories for several years. Many of these conversations focus on the historic nature of Harris presidential candidacy, since she is a mixed-race, Jamaican and Indian woman who does not have biological children and who was born to two immigrant parents in Oakland, California. As Ive previously written about Harris mixed-race identity, some have questioned how authentic her Black or Asian identities are. Interest in Harris familial background and race was reignited on July 31, 2024, when Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump falsely suggested that Harris has misled voters about her racial and ethnic identity. I didnt know she was Black until a number of years ago when she happened to turn Black and now she wants to be known as Black. So, I dont know, is she Indian or is she Black? Trump asked during an interview with the National Association of Black Journalists in Chicago. By saying this, Trump tapped into the long history of racism in America, where some white people have defined racial categories and policed the boundaries of race. More than 33 million Americans identify as multiracial and likely see themselves reflected in Harris layered background. But many Republicans are also trying to use Harris identity against her. For ardent Trump supporters, Harris may seem to represent all that they oppose, including woke politics and Democrats being controlled by people who do not have children, as Trumps running mate JD Vance has said. For Democrats, Harris represents the U.S.s multiracial, feminist future. Which means, what people believe about Harris largely depends on the party they already plan to vote for more than who the Democratic presidential nominee really is. A Kamala Harris supporter holds a sign following President Joe Bidens July 22, 2024, announcement that he will not seek reelection. Loren Elliott/Getty Images Harris and her many firsts Many political observers and voters alike agree that Harris has breathed new life into the Democratic Party, precisely because she is a Black-South Asian woman. Many Asian American, Black, Latino and female voters see elements of themselves in Harris: the celebration of her ethnic cultures, her achievements as a person of color, and her unprecedented and pathbreaking model being a woman of color who is the nominee of a major party seeking the highest office in the country. A variety of fundraising meetings in July and August centered on the identities of those who support Harris. Black women for Harris, Black men for Harris, white women for Harris, white dudes for Harris, South Asians for Harris, LGBTQ+ people for Harris, among others, have all gathered in Zoom meetings that had tens of thousands of attendees one even had a record-breaking 200,000 attendees. These online gatherings have jointly raised more than $15 million for Harris. The number and diversity of people rallying for Harris shows her widespread appeal. Harris white male supporters a key voting demographic for Democrats also show how Harris candidacy is inclusive to many different kinds of people. Inclusivity may be a keyword of Harris campaign, especially in opposition to her rivals campaign. Vances comments about childless cat ladies has spawned endless memes tapping into the rancor of people who recognize the insensitivity and ignorance of such a remark. Harris supporters have responded to the GOPs critiques of her and turned them into positive political memes celebrating her identity, attesting to Harris popularity with a younger, media-savvy electorate. Using Harris identity against her Republicans, meanwhile, are questioning Harris qualifications precisely based on her ethnic and racial identity, calling her a DEI candidate. This is a reference to the term diversity, equity and inclusion. The exact definitions of DEI can vary, but in workplaces or school settings it can look like treating everyone equally and fostering a culture where all people, regardless of their background or identities, feel welcomed. DEI policies intend to respond to the historic oppression that marginalized people have faced. As the scholar Susan Harmeling wrote recently, The term DEI hire actually implies that only heterosexual, white men are qualified for such high leadership positions. Some in the GOP have renamed the DEI acronym Didnt Earn It. U.S. Reps. Tim Burchett and Harriet Hageman both have disparaged Harris as a DEI hire, with Hageman going a step further by saying that Harris is intellectually, just really kind of the bottom of the barrel. The gender factor Harris is the second woman major-party presidential nominee, following Hillary Clintons candidacy in 2016. So far, Harris doesnt seem to be facing persistent questions about whether women are fit to lead, as Clinton once did. But Harris has faced both sexist and racist comments, particularly online. One 2021 study found that 78% of disparaging sexist and racist comments on Twitter, now called X, during November and December 2020 were directed at Harris. Some Republicans have continued making sexist attacks on Harris in this election campaign. In a July 3, 2024, social media post, Jackson Lahmeyer, the head of the group Pastors for Trump, called Harris a ho, or whore, riffing off a right-wing meme of Joe and the Ho. Christian nationalist Lance Wallnau took to social media on July 22 to call Harris a representative of the spirit of Jezebel. Other conservative pundits have claimed that Harris slept her way to the top, citing an early relationship she had with Willie Brown, a prominent Democratic politician from San Francisco and later speaker of the California State Assembly, as the reason for her success. This false story of Harris romantic past aligns with old stereotypes of Black women being promiscuous, rooted in the rape of Black women by white slave owners during antebellum slavery. And the tactic of questioning Harris authentic racial background could apply not just to Harris but to nearly all multiracial people. Yet there are millions of Americans who identify as multiracial and see in Harris their own story. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Jennifer Ho, University of Colorado Boulder Read more: Jennifer Ho does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for US president, has named Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, as her running mate ahead of the November election. The decision ends intense speculation over which candidate Harris would pick to go up against Donald Trump, the Republican nominee and former president, and his choice for vice-president, the Ohio senator JD Vance. Walz first ran for office in 2006 in a Republican-leaning congressional district, upsetting the incumbent. He kept the seat until he won the Minnesota governorship in 2018, then again in 2022. Under his leadership, the state has seen significant progressive legislative wins in recent years, including universal school meals, legalized marijuana, abortion protections and gun control measures. Related: Who is Tim Walz, the governor who is Harriss vice-presidential pick? Before he entered public office, he was a school teacher in Mankato, Minnesota, teaching geography to high school students. He also served in the army national guard for 24 years. In an Instagram post announcing the pick, Harris said: One of the things that stood out to me about Tim is how his convictions on fighting for middle-class families run deep. Its personal. She cited his upbringing in Nebraska, and how after his fathers death to cancer, his family relied on social security survivor benefits to make ends meet. He used the GI bill to attend college. He coached high school football and advised the high schools gay-straight alliance. His background is impressive in its own right, but also informs his governing, she said. Minnesota Democrats legislative record played into her choice she noted a law that constitutionally protects access to abortion and one requiring universal background checks for gun purchases. But what impressed me most about Tim is his deep commitment to his family, she added. We are going to build a great partnership. We are going to build a great team. We are going to win this election. Walz posted a short statement to X on Tuesday. Vice-President Harris is showing us the politics of whats possible. It reminds me a bit of the first day of school, he said. His midwesterner dad charm and straight-talk propelled him up the list as a potential vice-presidential pick, though, and as the head of the Democratic Governors Association, he has been stumping for Biden and Harris for the past year. It was his simple retort against Trump and his allies that caught national Democrats attention most: he called them weird. His clips on TV shows went viral, showing him pushing back on Republicans weird behavior while showcasing a list of what he had accomplished as a Democratic governor and how Democrats would govern if they win the White House again. Walz explained in a TV interview why he had started calling Trump weird. Its true that Trumps policy would put womens lives on the line and that hes a threat to constitutional values, Walz said. But hes also on the campaign trail talking about Hannibal Lecter and shocking sharks and just whatever crazy thing pops into his mind. Have you ever seen the guy laugh? That seems very weird to me, that an adult can go through six and a half years of being in the public eye. If he has laughed, its at someone, not with someone. That is weird behavior, Walz said of Trump. Walz grew up in small-town Nebraska, giving him rural bona fides that will help voters who have moved away from Democrats in recent years. The golden rule that makes small towns work so were not at each others throats all the time in a little town is: mind your own damn business, Walz said in one TV spot. His former colleagues praised his ability to connect with those crucial voters in the Rust belt, and to not only explain whats bad about Republicans, but what Democrats would actually do in office. Tim Ryan, a former Democratic US representative and Walzs friend, called to mind a recent clip in which Walz mentioned that Minnesota ranked in the top three for happiest states in the nation. Isnt that really the goal here? For some joy? When he mentioned that I was like, dang man, thats really good. Thats really good, because it gets us out of the political space and into the human being space. Some political commentators had suggested that, as the first woman of color nominated by a major party, Harris was mostly likely to pick a white man to balance the ticket. The 59-year-old former California senator is looking to build on a successful campaign launch after stepping in to replace Joe Biden, who bowed to pressure from Democratic colleagues and dropped out of the race after a disastrous debate performance against Trump. Harris and Walz can expect a rapturous welcome at the Democratic national convention in Chicago starting on 19 August. She has been endorsed by former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton. A New York Times/Siena College national opinion poll published on 25 July found that Harris has narrowed what had been a sizable Trump lead. Trump was ahead of Harris 48% to 46% among registered voters, compared with a lead of 49% to 41% over Biden in early July. Republicans immediately began attacking Walz as a radical leftist and claimed that picking Walz was a massive gift to Republicans, suggesting his presence on the ticket will tank the Harris campaign. In a statement, the Trump campaign called Walz a west coast wannabe who has spent his governorship trying to reshape Minnesota in the image of the Golden state. The campaign brought up a clip from 2017 where Walz talks about electoral maps that show broad swathes of red, saying those areas are mostly cows and rocks. If Walz wont tell voters the truth, we will: just like Kamala Harris, Tim Walz is a dangerously liberal extremist, and the Harris-Walz California dream is every Americans nightmare, the Trump campaign said. Speaking in Philadelphia on Tuesday, Vance first told reporters he could not say a lot about who Tim Walz is because the Democrats have shown a willingness to put a little switcheroo on us, by switching presidential candidate from Biden to Harris. Vance said he had called Walz to congratulate him on his selection and would debate him, but only after the Democratic convention later this month. So thats the first reason, for not commenting too much about Walz, Vance said though he subsequently attacked Walz freely in terms he himself indicated: The second reason is that Tim Walzs record is a joke. Hes one of the most far-left radicals in the entire United States government, at any level. Vice President Kamala Harris departs Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport aboard Air Force Two, after speaking at a campaign rally inside West Allis Central High School on July 23, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Jim Vondruska/Getty Images) WASHINGTON The Democratic National Committee announced late Monday that Vice President Kamala Harris had secured the support of 99% of delegates to formally become the partys presidential nominee, following the conclusion of a five-day virtual vote. The results, which included a state-by-state breakdown, followed the DNC announcing Friday that Harris had surpassed the number of delegates needed to become the nominee as voting proceeded. She was the only candidate to qualify. The DNC said 4,567 delegates cast their votes for her. In Colorado, 86 of the 87 delegates from the Colorado Democratic Party cast their vote for Harris. We are especially proud to be Democrats today, Shad Murib, chair of the Colorado Democratic Party, said in a statement. Colorado delegates are thrilled to join their colleagues across the country in nominating Vice President Kamala Harris as our nominee for president, a candidate perfectly suited to prosecute the case against Donald Trump and his dangerous Project 2025 agenda. The next steps will be the certification of the roll call by the convention secretary, Jason Rae, and the acceptance of the nomination by Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. There will also be a celebratory roll call at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago later this month. With the support of 99% of all participating delegates in the virtual roll call, Vice President Harris has historic momentum at her back as we embark on the final steps in officially certifying her as our Partys nominee, DNC Chair Jaime Harrison and DNCC Chair Minyon Moore said in a statement. We thank the thousands of delegates from all across the country who took seriously their responsibility throughout this process to make their voices and the voices of their communities heard. As we prepare to certify the nomination alongside Convention Secretary Rae, we know that we are all a part of an important piece of history. On the way to Election Day Harris and her vice presidential pick will have fewer than 100 days to campaign before Nov. 5. Shes undertaking a swing-state tour that has the two holding rallies Tuesday in Pennsylvania, Wednesday in Wisconsin and Michigan, Thursday in North Carolina, Friday in Arizona, and Saturday in Nevada. The Associated Press reported a stop in Georgia was postponed due to Hurricane Debby and the North Carolina appearance could be affected. Harris didnt compete in a Democratic primary campaign this election cycle, which could potentially hamstring her, though she did introduce herself to voters during the 2020 Democratic presidential primary and has held public events throughout her time as vice president. Debate over debates As of Tuesday it did not appear that Harris and Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump would debate ahead of Nov. 5, which would have given her an opportunity to showcase her policy goals and personality to a broader cross-section of voters. Trump and the Biden campaign agreed to two debates the first in June, which was hosted by CNN and led to a widespread lack of confidence in Bidens cognition, and a second on Sept. 10, hosted by ABC News. The Trump campaign had been noncommittal about debating Harris since Biden announced in July he would step aside as the presumptive nominee and endorsed Harris to take over at the top of the ticket. Harris for President Co-chair Cedric Richmond said in a statement released Friday that Trump needs to man up and attend the previously agreed to debate on Sept. 10. Hes got no problem spreading lies and hateful garbage at his rallies or in interviews with right-wing commentators. But hes apparently too scared to do it standing across the stage from the Vice President of the United States, Richmond said. Since he talks the talk, he should walk the walk and as Vice President Harris said earlier this week say it to her face on September 10. Shell be there waiting to see if hell show up. Trump posted on social media over the weekend that he would only attend a Fox News debate on Sept. 4, though neither the Biden nor Harris campaigns ever agreed to attend a Fox debate. Kamala Harris doesnt have the mental capacity to do a REAL Debate against me, scheduled for September 4th in Pennsylvania, Trump posted. Ill see her on September 4th or, I wont see her at all. Who is Kamala Harris? Harris was born in Oakland, California, in October 1964. She graduated from Howard University, a historically Black institution of higher education, in 1986 before receiving her law degree from the University of California in 1989. Harris worked as a deputy district attorney in Alameda County, California, from 1990 until 1998. Her career as a prosecutor continued when she moved to the San Francisco District Attorneys office, where she worked as a managing attorney. She spent time as the chief of the San Francisco City Attorneys Division on Children and Families and as the district attorney of San Francisco before California voters elected her attorney general in 2010. Residents in the Golden State then elected Harris to the U.S. Senate in 2016, where she stayed until she was sworn in as vice president in January 2021. Harris sought the Democratic presidential nomination during the 2020 primary, but dropped out two months before voting began. Roll call, keynote speech Harris is scheduled to give the convention keynote speech on Aug. 22, the final night of the gathering in Chicago. Shell likely be speaking to the largest audience shell have in person and watching on television until election night. That will provide a major opportunity for her to speak directly to the centrist and undecided voters who will determine the outcome of the November elections, including control of the U.S. House and U.S. Senate. Should Harris win the Electoral College vote, she will become the countrys first female president, the first president of South Asian descent and the second Black president when shes inaugurated on Jan. 20, 2025. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST New street art in New York City celebrates Kamala Harris. A portrait of the vice president and presumptive 2024 Democratic presidential nominee amid lightning bolts and the American flag appears above the word Forward in illustrator and street artist Jacob Thomas image that was pasted around Brooklyn and lower Manhattan this weekend. I was imagining the jolt of energy Harris brought to the Democratic Party when she took over, Thomas told HuffPost. In my mind I was seeing lightning strike the flag and causing the stripes to vibrate with energy. Jacob Thomas' "Forward" print of presumptive Democratic nominee Kamala Harris. Jacob Thomas Harris recent campaign rally cry that Were not going back was an inspiration for the Forward caption, he explained. This reflects the belief that under (former president and GOP nominee) Donald Trumps leadership, the countrys progress would regress, while under Harris leadership, our nation would continue to advance forward, leveraging the strength of diverse perspectives, he said. We strive to move beyond the leadership of an individual embodying toxic masculinity, xenophobia, racism, sexism and immorality, towards a new energy and inclusive leadership, Thomas added. Im driven by simply wanting her to win the election and my effort to contribute to that outcome, said Thomas, whose crowd-fundraising initiative on GoFundMe to distribute his art to activists nationwide has to date raised more than $6,000. Jacob Thomas took inspiration from Kamala Harris recent campaign rally cry that, Were not going back." Jacob Thomas Fellow street artist Shepard Faireys iconic Hope portrait of then-Democratic hopeful Barack Obama in the 2008 election was an influence, Thomas said. Amidst the energy surrounding Harris transition within the Democratic Party, I wanted to sustain that momentum with my work, much like the Hope poster did for Obamas campaign, he told HuffPost. Im driven by simply wanting her to win the election and my effort to contribute to that outcome. Shepard Fairey's "Hope" portrait of Barack Obama. David S. Holloway via Getty Images Thomas last month pasted a series of anti-Trump prints around Brooklyn featuring Trump as former Chinese Communist Chair Mao Zedong underneath the word Dictator. The message is simple: We cannot live in a country led by a dictator, Thomas told HuffPost at the time. Last weekend, he added these images of Trump as Donald Duck to the citys street scene. Donald Trump as Donald Duck. Jacob Thomas Have you seen or created any protest street art? Email your images and information to lee.moran@huffpost.com or send a direct message via Instagram. Related... Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, announced Tuesday morning she has selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate. As a governor, a coach, a teacher, and a veteran, hes delivered for working families like his, Harris wrote in a post on X. Its great to have him on the team. Harris is due to hold a rally with her vice presidential pick in Philadelphia on Tuesday afternoon. Harris chose Walz over Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Walz, Shapiro and Kelly all met with Harris at her home in Washington, D.C., on Sunday. Given Minnesotas status as a reliably, albeit narrowly, Democratic state, the selection of Walz does not immediately put a battleground state in play for Democrats. But the plainspoken, second-term state chief executive has emerged recently as a prominent attack dog against former President Donald Trump and Sen. JD Vance (Ohio), Trumps running mate. Lighting into the Republican Partys efforts to restrict abortion rights and certain books in public libraries, Walz coined Democrats weird moniker for the GOP. These are weird people on the other side, he said on MSNBC in July. Walz has also drawn upon his and his wifes experience needing fertility treatment to argue against what he claims are Republican efforts to ban in vitro fertilization (IVF). My oldest daughters name is Hope. Thats because my wife and I spent seven years trying to get pregnant, needed fertility treatments, things like IVF things that they would ban, he said on a White Dudes for Harris virtual fundraiser on July 29. Walz was at home with his family when he learned he had been chosen during a phone call on Tuesday morning, according to a source familiar with the decision. The family was able to celebrate together, the source said. The governor had donuts for staff and hopped on a wider staff call to say thanks for everyones hard work and emphasize the need to continue their important work delivering for the people of Minnesota. Walz, a former high school social studies teacher, football coach and veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard, previously represented southern Minnesota in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2007 to 2019. He has highlighted his upbringing in a small town in Nebraska to go on offense against Vance, arguing that the GOP vice presidential pick fails to appreciate the small-town truism, Mind your own damn business. Walz made his career in Mankato, a small Democratic city amid a sea of rural, conservative agricultural communities in southern Minnesota. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz arrives to speak at a press conference regarding new gun legislation at City Hall on Aug. 1 in Bloomington, Minnesota. Stephen Maturen via Getty Images Since his reelection in 2022, Walz leveraged a narrow legislative majority to pass a bevy of major progressive reforms, including a Medicaid buy-in, paid family and medical leave, a phase-out of fossil fuels, and free school lunches for all. But Walzs southern Minnesota roots have failed to arrest Democrats steady slide at the polls in the rural areas known as Greater Minnesota. The Republican incumbent carried Minnesotas 1st Congressional District Walzs former House seat by more than 11 percentage points in 2022. As in other parts of the country, Democrats coalition in Minnesota now depends more on college-educated voters in once-Republican suburbs than on farmers, miners and factory workers outside of major cities. The latter groups once had their own individual farmer and labor parties that merged with the Democratic Party in 1944 to form the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party the official name for the states Democrats to this day. As a candidate for statewide office in 2018, Walz likewise jettisoned his past opposition to stricter gun regulations, which had been a selling point for him in his more conservative, rural House district. Citing his own identity as a gun owner and hunter concerned about gun violence, Walz in May 2023 signed a red flag law and a bill ensuring universal background checks in the state. For that and other reasons, Walz might not assuage the concerns of some Democratic pundits concerned that the left-wing positions Harris took during her first presidential run in 2019 are a general-election liability, and needed to be offset with the selection of a moderate running mate. We can get out there, reach out, make the case, and for one thing dont ever shy away from our progressive values, he said on the White Dudes for Harris fundraiser. One persons socialism is another persons neighborliness. The vice presidential selection process turned unexpectedly contentious, particularly in the final days, as progressives lobbied against Shapiro, the popular governor of a key battleground state. Shapiros detractors took issue with his views on pro-Palestinian campus protesters and support for private-school vouchers, but soon helped orchestrate a veritable avalanche of unflattering coverage about Shapiros record. Renewed attention on the case of Philadelphia school teacher Ellen Greenbergs 2011 death cast further negative light on his candidacy. As attorney general, Shapiros office reaffirmed in 2019 and 2022 that Greenbergs death by 20 stab wounds was a suicide, against the appeals of her parents who believe she was murdered. The office of attorney general handed the case back to local prosecutors in 2022 after it emerged that Shapiro knew family members of Greenbergs fiance, Samuel Goldberg, whom many believe murdered her. A development last week helped bring the case back into the headlines. On July 30, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court announced it would hear arguments from Greenbergs parents to determine whether they have standing to challenge how Greenbergs death was classified. Some Democrats have bristled at the scrutiny Shapiro, an observant Jew, has received for pro-Israel views they say are shared by Walz. Walz has spoken at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee conference, met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and suggested that anti-Zionism is antisemitic. In response to Walzs selection, the Uncommitted National Movement, which spearheaded the effort to get Democratic primary voters to vote uncommitted in the Democratic presidential primary as a gesture of protest against President Joe Bidens support for the Israeli invasion of Gaza, circulated a video of him reacting receptively to the movements strong showing at the Minnesota polls in March. Governor Walz has demonstrated a remarkable ability to evolve as a public leader, uniting Democrats diverse coalition to achieve significant milestones for Minnesota families of all backgrounds, Elianne Farhat, a Minnesota-based senior adviser to Uncommitted, said in a statement. While his past positions as a Congressman may have conflicted with anti-war voters, we hope he can evolve on this issue as he has on others, such as shifting from an A to F rating from the NRA. Arthur Delaney contributed reporting. Related... Vice-president Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota governor Tim Walz to be her running mate, touting the work hes done for middle-class families and his deep commitment to his own wife and children. One of the things that stood out to me about Tim is how his convictions on fighting for middle-class families run deep. Its personal, she wrote in an Instagram post announcing the decision. He worked with Republicans to pass infrastructure investments. He cut taxes for working families. He passed a law to provide paid family and medical leave to Minnesotan families. She added: We are going to build a great partnership. We are going to build a great team. We are going to win this election. Harriss announcement comes with a little more than a week to go until the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The pair will hold a rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening before they begin a tour through swing states. It is the honor of a lifetime to join Kamala Harris in this campaign, Tim Walz said in a statement on social media. Im all in. Vice President Harris is showing us the politics of whats possible. It reminds me a bit of the first day of school. Walz, a former history teacher, high-school football coach, congressman and two-term governor, has been a favorite of the online left for his passing of popular progressive policies and for starting the trend for calling Republican politicians weird. Similarly, he has shown a willingness to aggressively attack former president Donald Trump and his running mate, Republican senator JD Vance. Kamala Harriss announcement comes with a little more than a week to go until the Democratic National Convention in Chicago (AFP via Getty) How often in 100 days do you get to change the trajectory of the world? he said during last weeks White Dudes for Harris event. And how often in the world do you make that b*****d wake up afterwards and know that a Black woman kicked his ass and sent him on the road? Harriss selection was made on a condensed timeline after the president, Joe Biden, suddenly announced last month that he would not seek re-election, and then swiftly endorsed her to succeed him. On Monday evening, Dan Green, a Minneapolis communications consultant, posted a photo of a series of Black Chevy Suburbans in front of Walzs residence, signaling that he might be Harriss choice. Thrilled about the possibility, Minnesota attorney general Keith Ellison said. Gov Walz is a team player, a listener, and Ive been very pleased with how his office engaged with the AGs office over the years. With 91 days until the election in November, the veepstakes turned into a mini-primary, with candidates representing various factions of the Democratic Party. The final list included Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro, governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky, and Arizona senator Mark Kelly. A prosecutor and a teacher? Theres never been a better ticket! Erin Maye Quade, a state senator in Minnesota, told The Independent via text message. But more seriously: this pick just shows how serious VP Harris is about building coalitions for our bright future, Quade added. Our successes in Minnesota are because of coalitions of working people, labor unions, parents, farmers, seniors, Black, white, brown and Asian, and young people. And Governor Walz is the perfect person to join this ticket and show America what it looks like when we care for one another. I am live outside of the the Tim Walz residence. A bunch of black suburbans rolled in. Secret Service? No idea. Lots of people going in and out.#WalzWatch #Veepstakes pic.twitter.com/GfhmSZ3XKX dan green (@DanGreenMN) August 5, 2024 A retired schoolteacher and a veteran of the US army National Guard, Walz first won a seat in Congress in 2006 as a conservative Blue Dog Democrat who represented a rural part of Minnesota. In 2016, he narrowly won re-election in a district Trump won. In 2018, he ran for governor, by which time his policies had become more progressive. He famously gave away money he had previously received from the National Rifle Association. As governor, Walz passed numerous progressive policies, including free school meals for children regardless of income, background checks on guns, and protections for LGBT+ people. Trump, for his part, slammed Harriss running-mate selection on Tuesday by painting Walz as a radical. From proposing his own carbon-free agenda to suggesting stricter emission standards for gas-powered cars, and embracing policies to allow convicted felons to vote, Walz is obsessed with spreading Californias dangerously liberal agenda far and wide, campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said in a statement. If Walz wont tell voters the truth, we will: just like Kamala Harris, Tim Walz is a dangerously liberal extremist, and the Harris-Walz California dream is every Americans nightmare. Trump and other Republicans have also criticized Walz for waiting to call in the National Guard in 2020 during riots after police in Minneapolis killed George Floyd. Trump has falsely said that he sent in the guard in the end, although the truth is that Walz was the one who made the call. Harris and Walz will make a swing through battleground states across the country this week, starting in Pennsylvania before heading to Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Arizona and Nevada. JD Vance will hold a campaign event in Philadelphia before following the duo around other swing states. Even before Harris selected him, Walz went on the offensive against the Ohio freshman senator, specifically hitting him for missing a vote to expand the child tax credit. In Minnesota, were cutting poverty and strengthening families with our child tax credit. Youd think JD Vance would be eager to do the same nationally. Except he skipped a vote to pass the federal child tax credit expansion yesterday, Walz said last week. Give me a break with that pro-family talk. The News Kamala Harris, the US vice president and Democratic candidate for the White House, is set to announce her running mate today, amid signs that momentum is shifting in her favor. Harris is likely choosing between Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, both of whom analysts say would help deliver critical states in Novembers election. Shapiro, who would be the first Jewish vice president if elected, would help deliver a critical swing state but has attracted criticism from progressives over his pro-Israel stance. Walz, meanwhile, is backed by some progressive and labor groups and would help pull in votes from the Midwest. She is expected to announce her choice via a video message, and the two will begin a battleground state tour this evening in Philadelphia. Editors note: This story was updated with a clarification of the rank Gov. Tim Walz held when he retired from the Minnesota National Guard in 2005. He is a former command sergeant major but reverted back to a master sergeant at the end of his career. Tim Walz, named Tuesday as the running mate of Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, is the current governor of Minnesota, a former high school teacher, a six-term congressman and a long-tenured veteran of the Army National Guard. Walz, 60, enlisted in the National Guard on April 8, 1981 at the age of 17. While serving, he held multiple positions within field artillery, including firing battery chief, operations sergeant and first sergeant, and he culminated his career serving as the command sergeant major for the battalion, said Lt. Col. Kristen Auge, the Minnesota National Guards state public affairs officer. Walz retired in 2005 as a master sergeant because he did not complete additional coursework at the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy, Auge said. Command sergeants major who dont complete the Sergeants Major Course revert back to their prior rank, she explained. In 2006, Walz became the highest ranking enlisted soldier to serve in Congress. He used the office to champion veterans issues, and a decade later rose to become the Democratic minority leader on the House Veterans Affairs Committee. Chaired by former Rep. Phil Roe, R-Tenn., the committee was praised widely during President Donald Trumps administration as a rare example of bipartisanship. Members of veterans organizations who worked with Walz during that time reacted positively Tuesday to Harris choice. Gov. Walz is a great choice, John Rowan, the former president of Vietnam Veterans of America, wrote on Facebook. He helped Vietnam veterans get the benefits they deserved to take care of their illnesses related to Agent Orange exposure during his tenure. Tim Walz, the presumptive Democratic nominee for vice president, is shown visiting constituents at Kandahar Airfield in 2011. (Spc. Amanda Hils/Army). Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, or IAVA, released a statement Tuesday applauding Harris for choosing a veteran to add to the Democratic ticket. The group earlier praised the nomination of Walz opponent, Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, who served in the Marine Corps from 2003 to 2007 and deployed to Iraq as a combat correspondent. When Trump chose Vance as his vice president candidate at the Republican National Convention in July, he became the first post-9/11 veteran to be nominated as part of a major-party ticket. JD Vance represents veterans on ballot, but some ask, At what cost? Both men represent the post-9/11 generation of veterans, as well as those who served in the enlisted ranks, said Allison Jaslow, CEO of the group. Before Vance and Walz, the most recent veteran on a major-party ticket was John McCain in 2008. They are the first veterans of the enlisted ranks on a presidential ballot since Al Gore in 2000. Ive said it before, and Ill say it again: The Post-9/11 generation of veterans is ascendant in America today, Jaslow said. We applaud Vice President Harris for heeding our call and choosing a post-9/11 veteran to join her in her candidacy to be commander-in-chief. And notably, someone who served in, and led troops, in the enlisted ranks. With the pick, Harris hopes to shore up her campaigns standing across the upper Midwest, The Associated Press reported. As governor, Walz helped enact an ambitious Democratic agenda in Minnesota, including sweeping protections for abortion rights and generous aid to families. Conservatives have criticized Walz over his handling of the arson and looting that followed the murder of George Floyd at the hands of a police officer in Minneapolis in 2020. Walz deployed the National Guard three days after Floyds murder, and some Republicans argued that he was too slow to respond. This story was produced in partnership with Military Veterans in Journalism. Please send tips to MVJ-Tips@militarytimes.com. If there is one thing we can nail down in JD Vances often-inconsistent political stances, it is that womens rights dont stand a chance if he gets voted in as Vice President under Donald Trump. However, Kamala Harris VP pick Tim Walz is helping to bolster the Democratic ticket as the far more appealing option for women and those who care about women in the 2024 Presidential election. Harris, who has remained committed to expanding childcare access, protecting reproductive rights and improving maternal health care throughout her time in office, has become a promising choice for anyone concerned about what womens rights could look like under another Trump term. More from SheKnows Walz already shook up the heated 2024 presidential race when he went viral last week for calling the men on the Republican ticket weird a simple but effective line of attack that calls Trump and Vances policies what they are and erodes the credibility of their regressive mission. Women and parents are getting a new glimmer of hope with Walzs name on the Democratic ticket and his stances on key issues surrounding child care, reproductive health care and education prove why. Walzs Stance on Affordable Child Care Vance has shown his total disregard for parents need for affordable child care several times in recent memory. He called universal child care a class war against normal people back in 2021. In the same series of tweets, he also vilified working parents, accusing them of wanting to shunt their kids into crap daycare so they can enjoy more freedom in the paid labor force. More recently, after expressing his view that people with children should have more voting access and calling women who dont have kids childless cat ladies, Vance failed to show up to a Senate vote on crucial legislation that would expand the child tax credit, proving that his supposed goal of protecting families is all talk and no action. Walz, however, has made moves to ease the burden of child care. In May 2024, the Democratic Governor announced $6.2 million in new grants to expand child care across Minnesota, which is expected to increase child care program capacity by 2,241 slots. Making Minnesota the best state for children and families starts with child care, said Walz in a statement at the time. Accessible, quality child care is critical not only for strong child development, but also for the economic wellbeing of the families in our state. These grants will increase access to child care and help more Minnesotans enter the workforce, growing our labor force and economy. Walz is a supporter of state-paid family and medical leave. According to CBS, in 2023, he signed into law a new program that will allow workers up to 12 weeks off per year with partial pay to care for a newborn child or a sick family member, and up to 12 weeks to recover from their own serious illness. Walzs Stance on Education Beyond child care, parents can celebrate Walzs hopeful vision for education in America. Walz has been vocally critical of the Republican partys attacks on educational access. These are weird people on the other side. They want to take books away. They want to be in your exam room, Walz told MSNBC last month during an interview. Thats what it comes down to. Dont, you know, get sugarcoating this. These are weird ideas. The budget Walz signed in Minnesota last year included a major boost in funding for schools and a $1,750 per-child annual tax credit that soughted to reduce childhood poverty in the state. Were going to put it behind our teachers so we can educate our children, Walz, who was a high school history teacher for 10 years said of the large budget surplus secured by the state, according to Star Tribune. In 2023, Walz enacted a universal free school meals program that provides free breakfast and lunch to K-12 students whose schools participate in the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program. The program is not income based and has been praised by local advocates who estimate that around 17% of Minnesota children are food-insecure. Also in 2023, Walz signed a free college tuition program in Minnesota. The program guarantees families earning less than $80,000 a year qualify for free public college and dont have to take on debt to cover fees. The program provides last-dollar scholarships, closing gaps between the less-than-sufficient financial aid packages students receive and the actual cost of college attendance. Walzs Stance on Abortion Access While Vance has compared abortion to slavery and supports a national ban on all abortions with no exceptions, Walzs recent history on issues related to reproductive rights speaks for itself. In January 2023, he signed a bill into law that codifies abortion as a fundamental right in the state, making it the first state to do so after the overturning of Roe v. Wade. This is very simple, very right to the point, Walz said on CNN Tonight after the decision. We trust women in Minnesota, and thats not what came out of the [Supreme Courts] decision, so I think its critically important that we build a fire wall. Then, in April 2023, he doubled down with more reproductive health care and gender-affirming care bills which will shield people from legal action that other states may take over such care, according to CNN. He previously signed legislation stating that state agencies must protect and support access to gender-affirming care and signed legislation banning so-called conversion therapy. In March of this year, he also discussed plans to expand Minnesotas abortion legislation to protect those seeking in vitro fertilization treatment in the wake of an Alabama Supreme Courts ruling that embryos created through IVF should be considered children. Walz also opened up about his wifes experience with IVF while expressing his commitment to protecting fertility treatment. Of course, Harris is still the central name on the ticket and her own history (and future) on these issues will matter more to voters now than ever before. As Christopher J. Devine, the co-author of Do Running Mates Matter? The Influence of Vice Presidential Candidates in Presidential Elections, tells Katie Couric Media: Our big conclusion is that running mates matter primarily in terms of what they tell you about the presidential candidate. So picking someone whos credible is a good signal to voters that youre serious about governing and youre not just trying to win an election. With womens issues being one of the many central issues at stake on Novembers ballot, Walz and Harris commitment to protecting our rights will be a relief to many voters and their race to win just got even more heated. For more information on your voting rights and to register to vote (or update your registration), visit vote.org. Before you go, click here to see the biggest presidential scandals in US History. Hillary Clinton, Bill Clinton Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. After a whirlwind of feverish speculation, Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday picked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate. Harris selection of Walz is the most significant decision of her rapidly evolving presidential campaign. It comes as the two prepare to introduce the new Democratic ticket via a tour through seven cities in battleground states: Philadelphia; Eau Claire, Wisconsin; Detroit; Durham, North Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; Phoenix; and Las Vegas. (The Savannah stop is being postponed because of Tropical Storm Debby.) Top of mind for Harris campaign is appeal. Her team hopes that, with the 60-year-old Walz on the ticket, the party can secure the demographics President Joe Biden might have drawn in, including older white voters and suburban white voters in swing states. The campaign also has an eye toward attracting more moderate white voters who find former President Donald Trump and his running mate, U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio, repellent but arent totally sold on backing a ticket with a Black and South Asian American woman at the top. She needs a middle-aged or maybe even slightly older white guy whos got experience, and who brings credentials in a different way, one source told NBC News as Harris search for a vice president entered its final hours. Someone who gives moderate Republican voters a place to go, like the [Nikki] Haley voters that are like, God, J.D. Vance is terrifying, and Trump is horrifying, but I wasnt really sure that Biden could do the job, and Im not sure that she can do the job. Another source put it even more bluntly: Lets just face it. Theres a lot of sexist, racist white dudes out there in America who dont like Trump but just need a little extra validation, the person said. Yet, Walz, who armed Democrats with powerful messaging when he described Republicans as just weird, will likely have broad appeal, given his positions on key issues affecting Black communities. For instance, Walz has been in the vanguard of protecting the sanctity of the ballot box. In May, he signed the Minnesota Voting Rights Act. The legislation revives private enforcement after an 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling last year limited who can sue under the Voting Rights Act of 1965, weakening a centerpiece of the Civil Rights Movement. Additionally, the legislation makes it easier for college students to vote and eliminates prison gerrymandering by using an incarcerated persons previous address instead of the address of their place of imprisonment for census counting. Democracy thrives when everyones voice is heard. Today, were ensuring a strong democracy by prioritizing accessibility and voter protections, Walz said in a press release. With this bill, we are breaking barriers that stand in the way of voting, protecting fair democratic processes, and paving the way for Minnesota to continue to lead the nation in voter turnout. Minnesota state Sen. Bobby Joe Champion, the lead Senate author of the legislation, echoed Walzs sentiments. He underscored how much these protections mean, especially to long-disenfranchised Black communities. My mom from Hooks, Texas is still alive, and to this day, she votes in every single election, and she makes sure that her family does, too. Thats how crucial the right to vote is, he told Capital B earlier this year. And if anything is impeding that right, we must work diligently to overcome that barrier. Supporters of Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz look on during a campaign rally at the Liacouras Center at Temple University on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) Walz has advocated for a number of other causes that especially help Black communities. In July, he signed the African American Family Preservation Act to grant greater protections to families confronted with separation in the foster care system. In February 2023, he signed the CROWN Act to combat the discrimination Black and brown people face in the workplace and at school because of their hair texture or style. And in 2021, he established the Missing and Murdered African American Womens Task Force to address the violence plaguing Black women. Propelled by the killing of George Floyd in 2020, Walz enacted police reforms after a lengthy struggle to get a bill through the states divided government. Hes also been a proponent of safeguarding reproductive rights including access to in vitro fertilization and using his administrations budget to invest in resources for Black communities. Without a shadow of a doubt or a hint of reservation, I am 100% certain that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is the best option to be her vice president. He knows how to give unwavering support to Black women. He is not just an ally; he is our accomplice, one person wrote for the Star Tribune. This isnt to suggest that Walz is a wholly uncontroversial figure. His administration has been criticized for failing to prevent a massive pandemic fraud case. A legislative audit this year found that dozens of people affiliated with a nonprofit plotted to steal $250 million from government programs designed to feed hungry children. That said, Harris team trusts that, with Walz as the pick for running mate, the party can continue to build on the rush of enthusiasm its enjoyed since Bidens abrupt departure from the race a couple of weeks ago. The campaign already raised $10 million in donations ahead of a rally Tuesday evening in Philadelphia. Champion feels the same way. [Walz] listened to communities of color and has been an excellent partner. In my two years as Senate President and our two years in the majority, Governor Walz helped end years of gridlock and enacted historic legislation that will improve the lives of all Minnesotans for generations, Champion told Capital B in a statement. Tim Walz is the real deal, and Americans will soon find out what Minnesotans already know. This story has been updated. The post How Kamala Harris VP Pick Tim Walz Has Been an Ally to Black Communities appeared first on Capital B News. Rep. Shannon Francis, R-Liberal, and a member of the House-Senate auditing committee, made the motions to renew the process of auditing election security in Ford County and to issue a subpoena to compel cooperation of Ford County Clerk Debbie Cox. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector) TOPEKA The Kansas Legislatures bipartisan auditing committee voted to issue a subpoena to compel the Ford County clerk to cooperate with the states security examination of voting-related documentation and equipment used in the 2022 general election. House and Senate members participating in the committee meeting Monday took the extraordinary step of immediately relaunching the election security audit investigation that had been stalled long ago by Ford County Clerk Debbie Cox. The committee directed Cox to comply with audit team information requests helpful in evaluating accuracy of voting machines relied on during the statewide election two years ago. In addition, Cox must provide auditors access by Aug. 14 to storage units, ballots and devices used to count votes in that election. Rep. Shannon Francis, a Republican from Liberal in southwest Kansas, offered the motion to affirm the post-auditing staffs authority to investigate Ford Countys election processes. He proposed a separate motion triggering Article 10, Chapter 46 of Kansas statute that outlined how investigating committees could use power of a subpoena to compel individuals to cooperate with audits. Both motions were approved without debate. If any person fails to make any books, accounts, contracts or records, files, documents and correspondence, confidential or otherwise, related to such audit available to the post auditor or any officer or employee of the division of post audit upon request the post auditor shall report such failure immediately in writing to the legislative post audit committee, the governor and the attorney general, Francis said. Cox wasnt at the audit committees brief meeting at the Capitol. She was given until 1 p.m. Aug. 14 to transfer requested materials to auditors. When the Division of Post Audit initiated a 15-county review of election security standards, they discovered Ford and Chase county officials sealed most election documents in the same containers with original paper ballots. The practice of locking away ballot activity documents or equipment transfer records in containers with ballots didnt comply with the Kansas Open Records Act mandating retention and inspection of certain election-related records. In addition, Ford County refused to let the Legislatures auditors inspect the countys election management computer. That meant auditors couldnt determine whether the election computer was properly disconnected from the internet or had non-election software installed on it. Kristen Rottinghaus, deputy of the auditing division, said the legislative committees objective was to answer two basic questions about election security in Ford County. They are the same questions directed at the 13 counties featured in the audit report released in mid-2023. The examination in Ford County would address accuracy and security of voting machines used in the November 2022 election, she said. And, Rottinghaus said, their policies and procedures for ensuring the security of storage units, ballots and devices used to tabulate votes during that same election. In July 2023, the auditing division reported to the Legislature that the 13 cooperating county governments had adequate overall election security practices but none met all 55 best practices or state laws during the 2022 primary or general elections. Auditors concluded most of the 13 counties examined in that audit provided inadequate levels of security for ballots and tabulation machines. Theyre also missing or have weak practices in several important areas, the audit report said. That means security isnt as good as it could or should be. The auditors recommended Secretary of State Scott Schwab provide counties with standardized election forms and policies. In addition, auditors proposed Schwab train county election officers on what election materials could be sealed in ballot containers and kept from public view. Secretary of states office officials told us county officials often indiscriminately seal election documents with ballots, the audit said. But this doesnt align with the purpose of ballot sealing, which is to maintain an accurate paper record of the election results. Auditing of county election security practices in Kansas was driven by Republican state legislators convinced by former President Donald Trumps false claim President Joe Biden stole the 2020 presidential election in a multi-state conspiracy. Trump, who carried Kansas in the 2016 and 2020 elections, has continued to perpetuate that myth on the 2024 campaign trail. In 2018, the American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas filed a lawsuit against Cox challenging her decision to move the citys voting location serving a population of 27,000 people to a facility outside city limits. The suit claimed the change interferred with a fundamental right to vote and disproportionately would impact Hispanic voters. Cox also forwarded to then-Secretary of State Kris Kobach a letter from ACLU Kansas requesting a voter help line, but wrote on top of the document, LOL, meaning to laugh out loud. Mary Wetzler votes Tuesday alongside her husband, Ted Holdahl, at a Lawrence polling site. Wetzler said she attempted to vote the day before, unaware polls closed at noon rather than at 5 p.m. on Monday, but was still determined to cast her ballot. (Maya Smith for Kansas Reflector) Mary Wetzler votes Tuesday alongside her husband, Ted Holdahl, at a Lawrence polling site. Wetzler said she attempted to vote the day before, unaware polls closed at noon rather than at 5 p.m. on Monday, but was still determined to cast her ballot. (Maya Smith for Kansas Reflector) LECOMPTON Buildings adjacent to the 1855 territorial capital of Kansas served as an election day backdrop Tuesday for Kathy and Steve McDowell, who watched as their grandchildren played in a park outside the local voting site in a community building more than a century old. Both got a jump on the August primary by filling out their ballots Monday, but sat on a bench as voters behind them walked in and out of the Lecompton polling station located in a limestone structure built for the Kansas United Brethren Church, whose members were regarded as the radicals. The McDowells said they were adherents of the traditional view of voting as an feature of civic duty. Its your responsibility in a democracy. If you dont vote youre abdicating your responsibility, said Steve McDowell, 76, and a consistent voter for more than 50 years. Kathy McDowell, who didnt consider herself a diehard political person, said she believed voting was a important right that should to be exercised. Im kind of disenchanted, but I do feel like its an obligation, but also a right, also a privilege. So, I do it, she said. In downtown Topeka, Jerry Smithson said he didnt typically vote because he didnt believe it was possible to hold politicians accountable. He said campaign promises made by candidates and their allies rarely matched reality once people were in political office. He said that was evident in decisions about taxes, education and health care issues. Politicians do whatever they want, he said. When do they listen to the people? A prediction Secretary of State Scott Schwab, who serves as the states top election official, said it was difficult to predict turnout for this August primary. Each election cycle had a unique set of circumstances, he said, including the 2022 proposed constitutional amendment on abortion that brought nearly 1 million to the polls. In the past, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted voting. Contested primaries for statewide offices have an influence, he said. Over the past decade, Schwab said, it has been observed that competitive races and compelling issues significantly drive voter turnout. He said turnout in the 2024 primary could resemble participation in 2016, which was a low-turnout election. About 411,000 Kansans took part in 2016, which equated to 24% of potential voters. Polling locations opened at 7 a.m. and closed at 7 p.m. local time in Kansas. Voters who were in line but hadnt cast a ballot when polls closed must be permitted to vote. In-person voters had to present a government-issued photo identification card. Remember to thank the poll workers when you vote, Schwab said. They work tirelessly and are invaluable to our election system. Mailed ballots had to be postmarked by Aug. 6 and received by a county election office by Aug. 9 to be counted. Schwab said the secretary of states website sos.ks.gov would go live at 5 p.m. Tuesday to provide unofficial election results. The preliminary outcome of elections for local offices such as county attorney, clerk or sheriff could be found on county election websites, he said. Next generation In Lawrence, Anthony Harvey Jr. said he was invested in voting because the citys leadership ought to have a sense of what a younger generation wanted of municipal government. He said he was drawn to candidates who he felt he could trust and had a sense of what it was to be a resident of Lawrence. Its a blessing and a good opportunity to have my opinion on the next generation of leaders, Harvey said. Im from east Lawrence. I feel like its important to support our people and people who care about Lawrence or want to be here. It means a lot to want to be in the city of Lawrence because its such a special place. Voter Mary Wetzel of Lawrence echoed that sentiment: I definitely wanted to make sure they got my vote. It matters not just for us but the whole next generation. Karen and Gary Vespestad, who voted in the unincorporated community of Kanwaka, cast votes during a mid-day flurry of activity. Its the only way you can get your voice heard, Karen Vespestad said. At Rainbow Mennonite Church in Kansas City, Kansas, Jennifer Caihar said she didnt possess strong opinions about her ballot decisions. She came to the church with her two children. I didnt have like, I have to make sure I vote for this candidate. I just have to make sure that I come and vote and have a chance to express my intuition, she said. Topeka election worker Henry Blake, who monitored voting at Rice Community Center, said he took a philosophical view of the electoral process. Halfway through the day, only 32 of 971 people eligible to vote at that polling station had done so. Were still in the grand experiment phase of our country, Blake said. Its way too dangerous to ignore the power of elections. KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD) Authorities say a man was killed and a suspect was arrested in a stabbing in Kalamazoos Edison neighborhood. The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety said that shortly before 10 p.m. Monday it received a report of a stabbing on Portage Street near the intersection of Lake Street. When officers arrived, police said they found a man unresponsive and not breathing. The victim, identified as 44-year-old Tuan Hakeem Williams, was pronounced dead at the hospital. The suspect, a 26-year-old man, was found near AMVET Memorial Parkway and taken into custody without incident. He was taken to the Kalamazoo County Jail, according to a news release. While searching for the suspect, police said a KDPS K-9 named Echo collapsed from heat exhaustion and was taken to Byron Center Animal Hospital for treatment. Echo is recovering at home with his handler. This embedded content is not available in your region. Anyone with information is asked to call the KDPS Criminal Investigation Division at 269.337.8139 or Kalamazoo Silent Observer at 269.343.2100. Correction: A previous version of this story said reports of the stabbing came in before 10 a.m. Monday. It was actually 10 p.m. Monday. We regret the error, which has since been corrected. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. (Bloomberg) -- Fujitsu Ltd. is having trouble winning the tech workers it needs to expand its IT consultancy arm and take on bigger system integrators like Accenture Plc. Most Read from Bloomberg The Tokyo-based company, which is fighting to differentiate itself in Japans crowded industrial electronics sector, was targeting a five-fold expansion in its consultancy team to 10,000 workers in the business year to March 2026. But making headway has been tough, according to Corporate Executive Officer Yoshinami Takahashi. The progress has been slow, and were struggling, Takahashi said in an interview on Monday. To help it expand, Fujitsu is looking for companies to acquire both at home and abroad to obtain workers, he said. We have a lot in our pipeline. Founded in 1935, Fujitsu has shifted focus away from hardware, and its service solutions segment which includes system integration, consulting, cloud, network, data center and security services now accounts for more than half of revenue. The company seeks to expand its ability to prepare AI tools that match clients needs. Slimmer margins are hurting Japanese companies ability to poach experienced workers from rivals, however. Operating profit margin at Fujitsus service solutions segment was 7% last quarter. Accentures was 16.4%. Fujitsus in-house technology, which spans supercomputers to data storage, gives the company an edge over other rivals that need to integrate solutions from elsewhere, Takahashi said. Its IT solutions and consulting team Fujitsu Uvance also helps clients minimize carbon emissions while increasing profits from carbon credits, he said. --With assistance from Shery Ahn. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Kentucky nurse to be gifted accessible home after losing her limbs to rare infection STANFORD, Ky. (FOX 56) In January, a nurse and mother would learn shed become a quadruple amputee due to a kidney stone complication. Cindy Mullins is still adjusting to her new normal, but numerous volunteers are coming together to make the transition easier for the entire Mullins family. The initiative is called Mullins Miracle. Kentucky nurse finds silver lining, spreads message of hope after losing hands and legs Her story traveled through the grapevine of her husbands employer and its associates, eventually reaching James Crocker, the founder and CEO of Hog Technologies. According to Mullins Miracle, the idea was sparked after watching an old episode of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. Ive never done this before, but it will probably not be the last time I do such a thing, Crocker said. Crocker said he felt called to head to Kentucky and build a new home for the Mullins family, one that would be fully accessible for Cindy. Read more of the latest Lexington & central Kentucky news On Aug. 3, the Mullins family closed on a 20-acre plot in Stanford, where volunteers will construct the 3,000-square-foot home, per Mullins Miracle. Builders anticipate beginning the ten-day fast track build on Sept. 9, allowing the family to move in on Sept. 18. Cindy Mullins is still adjusting to her new normal, but numerous volunteers are coming together to make the transition easier for the entire Mullins family (Mullins Miracle) Over 150 local professionals are donating their services and materials to bring this project to life, Mullins Miracle said. Additionally, we need skilled tradesmen for cabinet and flooring installation, among other trades. According to a Mullins Miracle update, volunteer slots are nearly filled but organizers are still in need of donations to reach the $125,000 goal. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: This is a heartwarming story of an entire community coming together to support one of its own, and we are happy to come alongside to make it happen, David Meyer, CEO of Hand of Hope, said. For those interested in donating, Mullins Miracles GoFundMe is available here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) While the race for the White House might get most of the attention this November, in Kentucky, therell be a clash of the classrooms. The Fancy Farm Picnic is often remembered for its zingers and one-liners, but its also considered the unofficial kickoff of election season. Between the barbs, there was plenty to say about the upcoming amendment on school funding. This amendment is nothing more than a Hail Mary attempt to revive failed policies, voucher policies that Kentuckians dont want, our students dont need. And the courts have thankfully blocked, Rep. Cherlynn Stevenson (D-Lexington) said in her speech against Amendment Two. MORE POLITICAL NEWS: The debate over allowing any state public funding to go to institutions outside of the school district, usually referred to as charter schools, is a long and complicated one in Kentucky. Charters were legally authorized in 2017, but to date, not a single one operates in Kentucky. Legislative efforts to create a funding mechanism, as recent as 2022s House Bill 9, remain blocked by the courts over their constitutionality. Half of our kids in the state of Kentucky cannot read at grade level. Thats an embarrassment, an embarrassment. A third of them are not proficient in math, Rep. Suzanne Miles (R-Owensboro) said in her speech. Miles, the House majority caucus chair, carried this years House Bill 2 to put an amendment on the ballot to change the state constitution, so its no longer a constitutional issue. Miles, like many supporters of the amendment, said families need more options because the ones they have arent cutting it. She referred to a recent KidsCount report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation that ranked Kentucky low in child well-being. LATEST KENTUCKY LISTS AND RANKINGS: Thirty-eighth in the nation. That is so embarrassing, Miles said. They will dry up our public schools budgets and they will shutter their doors, Stevenson, the House minority caucus chair, said in her speech, portraying the amendment as welfare for the wealthy. This is a snapshot of how both arguments are likely to be framed as voters move closer to November. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. Melissa Witt vanished from the Bowling World parking lot in Fort Smith, Arkansas, on Dec. 1, 1994. Witt's body was found on Jan. 13, 1995, by two hunters in the Ozark National Forest near Turner Bend in Franklin County. Witt, 19, was found nude, according to investigators, and her killer took her clothes, shoes and jewelry, after strangling her. Now, nearly three decades later, investigators, reporters and family members are still working to solve the case, and law enforcement agencies such as the Fort Smith Police Department, Crawford County, Sebastian County, Van Buren Police Department, and the FBI are collaborating to put the pieces together to find Witts killer. According to investigators, Melissa was a well-liked teen who planned to pay a surprise visit to her mother, who was enjoying a night out bowling, but Witt never made it inside the Bowling World building. PHOTO: An ABC News Studios docuseries now streaming on Hulu, At Witt's End: The Hunt for a Killer' chronicles the investigation into Melissa Witt. (HULU) "She was an ambassador to her college, which meant the college had her go and recruit students because they wanted students like her. You know, she worked after school. She was already a hard worker. She had big dreams for her life. You know, she went to meet her mom at bowling, at a bowling church league. It's everything we're told to do as young people, you know, get a good education, work hard, have a good close relationship with your parents, and be a good kid," said Charlene Shirk, a former reporter at KFSM-CBS who reported on Witt's case. Shirk thoroughly covered the case for years, speaking with family members and the police involved to deliver updates to the public. An ABC News Studios docuseries now streaming on Hulu, "At Witt's End: The Hunt for a Killer" chronicles the investigation into the missing woman and features exclusive interviews with local detectives, FBI agents, and the district attorney's office who are working together to solve the case. Following Witt's disappearance, blood was found in the bowling alley parking lot and in Witt's vehicle, and there were apparent signs of a struggle, according to investigators. Investigators from multiple departments immediately stopped the cases they were working on and switched their focus to finding out what happened to Witt. As police were gathering information on potential suspects, one name in particular stood out. Charles Ray Vines, from Fort Smith, had a criminal rap sheet that included murder. According to investigators, Vines' heinous acts against women were similar to the way Witt died. In the early 2000s a new suspect arose after he was arrested and charged with murdering two females at different times in 1994 near where Witt was murdered. "We later developed a suspect, Charles Ray Vines. His name came to light when he tried to kill; I think it was a 16-year-old girl in Crawford County," Detective Fran Hall, of the Fort Smith Police Department, said. Vines, at the time, had been arrested for breaking into the home of a teenage girl, raping her and trying to kill her. He also was accused in the rape and murder of 58-year-old Juanita Wofford. PHOTO: An ABC News Studios docuseries now streaming on Hulu, At Witt's End: The Hunt for a Killer' chronicles the investigation into Melissa Witt. (HULU) In 2000, Vines was convicted of murdering Wofford and raping the 16-year-old. Once he was in police custody, investigators made a deal with him that if he confessed to unsolved cases, including the murder of Melissa Witt, he would get to live. Vines was on death row at the time. In 2019, FBI agents Rob Allen and Rueben Gay led the investigation into Vines as they jumped in to try to solve Witt's case. "There was a lady had emailed a detective," Allen said. She worked with Charlie Vines' mother, and Charlie Vines sometimes would show up to his mother's work, and this witness reported that she saw him wearing a bowling league shirt of some sort." Vines even drew maps of the Ozark Mountain area. And he did a work order within an 8-minute drive of where Witt's body was found, police said. Detectives from the multiple departments working the Witt case all tried to get an interview with him, but failed because he was ill and not conscious, according to Allen. Then, he died in 2019 without ever giving Agent Allen or Agent Gay an interview about Witt's murder and if he was involved. After his death, Vines was still a prime suspect. Investigators went to his home and visited places he would frequent in an attempt to find any evidence. PHOTO: An ABC News Studios docuseries now streaming on Hulu, At Witt's End: The Hunt for a Killer' chronicles the investigation into Melissa Witt. (HULU) "The working group, Fort Smith PD and FBI, went out to the dump site of Melissa Witt, and this was 27 years later after she had been located," Allen said. "The test was what would we see if we ran the dogs on this site where decomposition had happened? What would that even look like? And it was admittedly just a test to, out of curiosity. And what we did was we had them start at a point where they wouldn't know if they were even going to cross a crime scene of any sort." Police say they felt it was necessary to use canines to help with the investigation. The canines would be able to detect if Witt's scent was at multiple scenes where Vines lived and frequently visited. The dogs found a cigarette filter and mattress cover with Vines' DNA at one location. It was the same Cambridge brand cigarette filter that was located where Witts body was found, Allen said. While the investigation into Vines heats up and the detectives await the lab results, they cannot ignore another potential suspect, who lived near Witt. He is Travis Crouch, who was moved to Arkansas after being released from jail in another state. He has a long criminal history filled with violence and is currently in prison in Colorado for the kidnapping and sexual assault a young woman. Investigators will not stop until they learn whether he killed Melissa Witt. Who killed Melissa Witt? 30 years later, the hunt continues originally appeared on abcnews.go.com What to know about Tim Walz, Kamala Harris' running mate After weeks of speculation, Kamala Harris picked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her vice presidential running mate on Tuesday, Reuters reported, citing CNN. Walz beat out several contenders. Walz brings political mastery, suburban-and-rural appeal and progressive patriotism to a competition where all three criteria are seen as helpful for Democrats to clinch a 2024 win against the Republican ticket of former President Donald Trump and and Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio. President Joe Biden dropped out of the race on July 21 amid rising concerns about his age and endorsed Harris as his successor. Gerth: With VP off the table, Andy Beshear could 'help my people' as US attorney general Who was selected as vice president nominee? Kamala Harris picked Walz as her vice presidential running mate. Who is Tim Walz? Walz is the governor of Minnesota. Where is Tim Walz governor? Walz is the governor of Minnesota. He became governor in 2019 after six terms in the House. How old is Tim Walz? Tim Walz is 60 years old. Where is Tim Walz from? Walz was born and raised in rural Nebraska by a public school administrator and a community activist. What did Tim Walz teach? Walz held several positions as a school teacher first at a Native American reservation in South Dakota, then overseas in China, then back home in Nebraska and finally in Minnesota, where he and his family relocated in 1996. Who is Tim Walz's wife? Walz is married to Minnesota First Lady Gwen Walz, also a former educator, and has two children, Hope and Gus. Is Tim Walz a veteran? Yes. Walz enlisted in the Army National Guard when he was 17 years old. Is Tim Walz pro-union? In naming Walz as her running mate, Harris selected a pro-union Democrat who can speak to the concerns of blue-collar workers in Midwestern states and beyond. Tim Walz political background Walz decided to run for office in 2006, seeking to represent a staunchly Republican-held district in the southern part of the state. His win against the six-term incumbent came as somewhat of a surprise to political observers, but Walz proved a popular candidate who styled himself as a plain-spoken moderate able to connect with the districts mostly rural voters. Walzs ability to bridge the tricky divide between progressive policies and conservative values resonated with his constituents, who elected him to serve five additional terms in Congress. Its also a talent the Harris campaign will seek to wield as it crisscrosses the nation in an effort to sway voters of all stripes especially those with conservative leanings in swing states. During his tenure, Walz sat on the House Agriculture Committee, Committee on Veterans' Affairs and the Armed Services Committee, and proved a solid supporter of key Democratic issues voting, for example, to raise the federal minimum wage, protect abortion rights and advance the Affordable Care Act. His affable personality and penchant for public service propelled Walzs political rise from Congress to the Governors Mansion. Walz entered the gubernatorial race in 2018 after then-Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton chose not to seek reelection, and he defeated his Republican challenger by a wide margin. He easily won re-election four years later, alongside Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, a member of the White Earth Nation of Ojibwe. Walz raised $11.6 million in his 2022 reelection campaign and $5.3 million in his first gubernatorial campaign in 2018, campaign finance records show. What is Tim Walz's education background? Walz holds a bachelors degree in social science education from Chadron State College in Nebraska and a masters of science degree in educational leadership from Minnesota State University Mankato. When does Tim Walz' term end? Walz's current term ends in 2026. If Harris and Walz win this November, the governor would have to resign from his current office and Flanagan would serve out the remainder of his term. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Kamala Harris VP pick Tim Walz: What to know about the Minnesota governor KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) A new apartment complex is opening in Knoxville, promising 112 new affordable housing units. Davie Construction Co. built Central Terrace Apartments, a project of Southeast Capital, a Knoxville-based developer specializing in affordable housing. The City of Knoxville provided $2,065,000 from its Affordable Rental Development Fund to help develop the property. Townsend launches survey to guide updates to long-term community plan The 147,616-square-foot apartment complex is located at 4510 Fennel Road and features 56 three-bedroom/two-bath units and 56 two-bedroom/one-bath units. The complex will be managed by Emerald Housing Management, with rent listed on their website as $1,150 for a two-bedroom and $1,327 for a three-bedroom. The complex is income-based housing. This means most residents have a voucher which means they pay no more than 30 percent of their income on housing. Ribbon cutting for Central Terrace (Photo via City of Knoxville) Central Terrace (Photo via City of Knoxville) Ribbon cutting for Central Terrace (Photo via City of Knoxville) According to Southeast Capital, the new complex will feature washer and dryer hookups in each unit, fully equipped kitchens with dishwashers, stoves, microwaves, and refrigerators, and on-site management and maintenance. In addition, water, sewer and trash will be included. Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon praised the complex on Facebook, writing: Our community needs new housing at all price points, but especially for low- to moderate-income families. The City invested $2M in gap financing for Central Terrace, a project of Southeast Capital and partners committed to building safe, beautiful homes. Bear cub rescued after mother hit by vehicle in the Smokies Central Terrace is one of several developments Southeast Capital has partnered with the city to complete. The other developments are the Ammons at Asheville Highway and Inskip Flats. For those interested in living at the complex, click here. Affordable housing is a pressing need in Knoxville with a recent report showing that Knoxvilles average rent is slightly above the national median. According to the East Tennessee Realtorss 2023 Housing Report, rent in the city has increased by 47% since 2019, underscoring the urgency of initiatives like Central Terrace Apartments. Editors note: This story has been updated to correct the price for a two-bedroom rental Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side. Should Knoxville have council members elected by voters in their specific districts, or should all council members be voted in by the entire city? This question could appear on Nov. 5 ballots thanks to a state law that bars the city's current system, but the Knoxville City Council must first determine whether it's something voters should decide. If the city council votes Aug. 6 against putting the choice on the ballot, future city council elections will be district-only by default. Voters could also decide against citywide options Nov. 5 if they are given the option, which also would make future city council elections district-only. If given the choice, voters will have to decide between two options: District-only elections in which the city council member from each district is elected only by residents of that district, with the exception of the three at-large seats City-wide representation in which council members must live in the district they represent, but the entire city votes to elect them. The three at-large members can live anywhere in the city. Since 1969, Knoxville has used a unique approach for city council elections. The top two candidates for each district were selected by district residents in the primary, but the final choice was made by citywide voting in the general election. That system has drawn criticism over its potential to block people of color from getting into office because the city as a whole picked the representative from the city's one minority district. Opponents of the city-wide option now being considered say that possibility could loom even larger. Several experts discussed with Knox News the pros and cons of each system. District representation is better for minorities Several voting system experts told Knox News that, statistically, district voting provides the best representation for minorities, assuming minority communities are clustered in areas within the city as they are in Knoxville. The research suggests that district elections rather than at-large elections make it more likely that citizens who are minority are more likely to elect the candidate of their choice, said Martha Kropf, a political science professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. City-wide representation has better cohesion Vladimir Kogan, a political science professor at Ohio State University, said city-wide systems require elected officials to be open to issues impacting the entire city, not just problems in their district, which can negate the NIMBY (not in my backyard) arguments that frequently plague local bodies. One place where we have very strong evidence is for housing affordability, Kogan wrote in an email to Knox News. Cities with district elections tend to have less housing development (particularly lower-cost, multi-family housing). Kropf agreed with the positives of city-wide representation, but also noted the problems a city faces can be offloaded to the areas of town with the least amount of political power. Any one representative has to build a lot of community within the entire city so that one candidate has to be visiting a lot of different people, she said. So, theyre not just thinking about the needs of just one bit of the city but the needs of the entire city. City-wide representation could make elections more partisan Knoxville's city elections are non-partisan. Officially, that won't change. But an entirely at-large system could encourage parties to push voters to elect a slate of candidates, said John Geer, the dean of Vanderbilt's college of arts and sciences. "This system may well favor whichever party's better organized," Geer told Knox News, offering a hypothetical example: "Even if it's a liberal city, let's say 40% of the city is still Republican and they concentrate all their votes on those candidates, they could walk away with a majority if they organize right." City-wide representation could be less issue-focused and more candidate-focused Each of the six city council districts has its own unique problems and characteristics that can become the focus of that district's election. In an entirely at-large system, a candidate is incentivized to appeal to more than just their district. Theoretically, a candidate in one district could spend their time campaigning elsewhere and win an election without the approval of the voters in their own district. Vanderbilt Professor Bruce Oppenheimer, who specializes in American political institutions, told Knox News having intense support in one's own district might not be enough to win. "Under the new system, (district-focused) candidates might not make it," he said. "It may change who can be winners and losers." The citywide system could could lay the groundwork for candidates who gain support for having strong, vocal opinions, even if those opinions aren't relevant to city government. The cost of city-wide elections could deter some candidates Running citywide costs more money because candidates have to reach more voters, Oppenheimer said. "(It) means using media as a way of reaching a large number of voters, which is relatively expensive," he said. "Versus the old system where you rely on getting support within a part of the city or district." And more expensive races could require new funding sources. "Candidates may have to raise more money, from whatever source that is," Oppenheimer said. Change to a city-wide system could result in a legal challenge Trey Hood, a political science professor at the University of Georgia, said theres nothing inherently wrong with having an at-large system, but it could have legal consequences if it ends up hurting the minority vote and/or the city ceases to have representation from minority communities. The city could be sued, he said, though the chances of a lawsuit succeeding would depend on a lengthy list of criteria. It has nothing to do with intent," Hood said. "Its (based on) fact." In this scenario, if a lawsuit were to be successful, the city could be forced to change the system to allow for district voting. No matter what happens, I would be shocked if there wasnt some kind of litigation about this, Hood said. What would shock me is if there was no litigation from this. The Knoxville City Council will have its regular meeting at 6p.m. Aug. 6 and will decide then whether to include the voting option on ballots. The meeting takes place in the main assembly room of the City Council Building. Reporter Tyler Whetstone contributed to this report. Allie Feinberg reports on politics for Knox News. Email her: allie.feinberg@knoxnews.com and follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, @alliefeinberg. This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Knoxville City Council election will change: Pros, cons of each option Los Angeles Community College District Chancellor Francisco Rodriguez, who has led the nation's largest two-year higher education system for the last decade, will step down in the fall, according to an email sent to top administrators, a move that comes amid faculty tensions, legal allegations of gender discrimination and other challenges. Rodriguez told his cabinet on Monday he would resign Nov. 2 to help his aging father with his "health challenges" and spend more time with his family. The announcement shocked many district members because the Board of Trustees had granted him a four-year contract last November. "It has been my extreme honor and privilege to work with you, and I will forever be grateful for your confidence and your collegiality," Rodriguez said in an email to his cabinet, obtained by The Times. "I am very proud of the work that we have performed together on behalf of the very talented and inspiring students we serve." Rodriguez did not immediately respond to questions from The Times. The district will send a formal announcement to the LACCD community after trustees meet Wednesday to finalize plans, a spokeswoman said. He is credited by supporters with bringing in more state funding to the district, hiring more than 900 full-time, tenure-track faculty members, promoting initiatives for academic success for students of color, especially Black and Latino men, and bolstering racial and gender diversity among faculty and staff. He also has focused on workforce training for students. But Rodriguez, 61, has also faced fierce opposition to his leadership of the district's nine colleges and more than 170,000 students. The LACCD Academic Senate, representing more than 4,000 faculty members, approved a vote of no confidence against Rodriguez and the Board of Trustees in May for what it said was a failure to adequately address multiple allegations of sexual harassment and investigate concerns about the use of public funds in contracting and procurement practices. The vote was approved 29 to 0 with one abstention. Read more: Six years, a trial, and a firing. But no end to a professor's sexual harassment fight In one high-profile case, a Los Angeles jury ordered the district in fall 2022 to pay $10 million in damages to a Southwest College professor who accused a high-ranking administrator of sexual misconduct. The jury found the district was negligent in hiring Howard Irvin, a former vice president of student services at Los Angeles Southwest College, and had retaliated against the plaintiff, Sabrena Turner-Odom, for making the complaint. The district appealed the verdict. But it faces at least three other ongoing lawsuits involving Irvin, who was fired from the district during a closed session board meeting in December 2022. Other women have also filed lawsuits against the district, alleging gender discrimination, whistleblower retaliation and other offenses. They include Maribel Medina, who was fired as general counsel after complaining she was subject to pay disparities and other bias by a chancellor who told her that "Mexican women serve me and like it," according to her lawsuit filed in January. The district on Monday did not respond to questions about Medina's suit and firing. In its March court filing, the district denied Medina's allegations. In a statement after the no-confidence vote, Angela C. Echeverri, president of the LACCD Academic Senate, said: For months, the Board of Trustees and Chancellor Rodriguez have circumvented calls for transparency, sidestepped meaningful reforms, and failed to adequately address concerns about sexual harassment, retaliation, and the use of public funds, particularly in the case of large public contracts. ... We can no longer afford to tolerate a culture of silence, indifference, and inaction." Last winter, the Academic Senate called on the Board of Trustees to improve efforts to prevent sexual harassment and discrimination by conducting timely and impartial investigations, and taking disciplinary actions if violations are found. The resolution also called on the board to regularly review its policies and procedures regarding sexual harassment and discrimination to ensure their effectiveness and compliance. The district said at the time that it had implemented improvements in how it processes sexual harassment complaints based on recommendations from a 2018 task force. LACCD remains unequivocally committed to a zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment of any kind in our classrooms and workplace, and to fostering a campus climate that promotes respect and civility, the statement said. Faculty leaders and other reformers are also urging the district to bring in independent auditors or a blue-ribbon external committee to examine the district's handling of its procurement practices and $15-billion construction bond program. Read more: L.A. Community College hit with whistleblower complaint over construction bond program The district has long been enmeshed in controversy over its handling of its bond program. In 2018, the district's chief facilities director began raising red flags about what he said were cost overruns, sloppy management, fierce backroom politics and entrenched relationships between board trustees and construction interests in its voter-approved construction bond program. He was fired the next year. The college district said in a 2018 statement that it is a "staunch custodian of taxpayer money" and that all complaints are treated with the utmost seriousness and are thoroughly reviewed. Any claims that are substantiated will be pursued accordingly." Faculty leaders and other district officials also cited concerns with the district's handling of another 2022 case involving allegations that a college employee attempted to steer a contract for goods and services to his sons. The district's internal audit department dismissed the complaint against the official, whom it identified only as "Employee A," after finding a "substantial lack of evidence" to support, according to the review. But Medina, then general counsel, asked an external law firm to investigate the case again. The firm, according to its report, found that the "overwhelming weight of evidence" supported the allegations and named the official in question as Irvin, then at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College. "Anytime anyone files a whistleblower complaint, it goes nowhere," Echeverri said in an interview. Echeverri said Rodriguez's personable manner and connections helped the district obtain additional funding, and he allocated $2 million to promote racial equity in educational outcomes. But she said he had a "terrible track record" in gender equity. Rodriguez, a San Francisco native, graduated from UC Davis with a bachelor's degree in Chicano studies and a master's degree in community development. He received his doctorate in education from Oregon State University. Before joining LACCD, he headed the MiraCosta Community College District in Oceanside and Cosumnes River College in Sacramento. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Last week, Philippe Lazzarini, commissioner general of UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, was heckled while giving a speech in Lausanne, Switzerland. UNRWA kidnapped my son! an anguished Israeli woman shouted from the audience. Ayelet Sameranos son, Yonatan, was murdered on October 7. His body was then dragged into Gaza by ghoulish UNRWA staff, depriving him even of the dignity of burial. Ten months later, as his mother held up his picture during the UNRWA speech in Switzerland, a member of the audience snatched it from her hands and shoved it into a nearby bin. There could be no better metaphor for the contempt with which the UN seemingly holds Israel and Jews. On Monday, the organisation sacked nine members of UNRWA staff who may have been involved in the depraved butchery of October 7. Israel suspects there were many more. The problem is as outrageous as it is endemic. In Gaza, UN facilities are regularly used by Hamas. In February, a subterranean terrorist command centre was found directly underneath the UNRWA headquarters in Gaza city. Its energy cables had been woven through the building. This was funded partly by the British taxpayer. When the revelations emerged, the Tory government suspended the handouts, along with the United States, Germany and other countries. Last month, David Lammy, the Labour Foreign Secretary, reversed that decision. In truth, UNRWA should never have received funding in the first place. Set up in 1949, the agency was designed not for humanitarian purposes but, for many, to advance the end of the Jewish state. Why do the Palestinians need their own dedicated refugee agency? All other refugees in the world are serviced by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). But UNRWA runs on its own set of rules. Refugees from Afghanistan, Syria and other parts of the Middle East and Africa lose their refugee status when they settle permanently in Europe. Wars happen, people resettle and build new lives. Under UNRWA regulations, however, Palestinians are classed as refugees even when they become full citizens of other countries. Even if a Palestinian is born in the United States, for example, and grows to become very wealthy and successful he will, under UNRWAs terms, be classed as a refugee and the UN will demand that he is allowed to return. Of all the millions of refugees created in the postwar turmoil, the Palestinians are unique in retaining their refugee status in perpetuity. Moreover, for all other displaced people, a refugee is a person who has fled his home. For the Palestinians, however, this status is passed on to their children and descendants, down the generations. (Needless to say, no such standard is afforded to the 900,000 Jews who were driven out of Arab lands in the late 1940s and early 50s, some of whose families had been there for centuries.) Because of this sleight of hand, the 700,000 Palestinian refugees of 1948 have, by UNRWAs count, swollen to more than six million. All of them are viewed as having a legitimate claim on Israeli territory, which snowballs year by year. With its population of nine-and-a-half million, about seven million of whom are Jews, the Jewish state is being asked to acquiesce to its own destruction in the name of human rights. Given this, is it any wonder there are terrorists on UNRWAs books? And is it right that British taxpayers are funding it? Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. An eviction notice is posted and the lock is changed on a residence in the unincorporated community of Galloway, west of Columbus, Ohio, in 2021. While eviction filings offer a glimpse into the current housing crisis, they often fail to include the outcomes of these cases, complicating data gathering on evictions and displacement in rental housing. Stephen Zenner/Getty Images Evictions are a window into Americas rental housing crisis: In 2022, more than half of all renters spent over a third of their income on housing, and millions of tenants who miss rent payments are evicted each year. When renters are kicked out of their homes, the consequences can be disastrous. Families might lose their possessions when they are piled on the sidewalk, or cant afford the fee to get them out of storage. Children might have to switch schools, and studies show that evictions often lead to job loss and depression. The most recent eviction data, based on court records, suggests that 3.6 million evictions were filed in 2018, or 7.8 for every 100 renter households. Those numbers, from the Eviction Lab at Princeton University, are considered to be the best available. But they dont come close to painting a full picture. Court records on eviction filings vary from county to county, and typically dont contain much information beyond names and addresses. Crucially, they usually dont detail the eventual outcome of the legal proceedings. And legal records only represent evictions that make it to court, not informal ones that occur outside the legal process, such as when a property owner simply changes the locks. Theres virtually nothing on anything that might happen outside of the court system, like more informal evictions where its maybe just a threat, and the person moves out, said Jill Naamane, a director at the U.S. Government Accountability Office and the lead author of a recent report on the limits of eviction data. Evictions are called something different in lots of different places. There are writs of this and complaints of that, and even after understanding all those different nuances in the thousands of places, you still may not really have a good data set. Researchers and housing advocates say policymakers need better eviction information to make meaningful progress in addressing the nations affordable housing crisis. Many of them are calling on the federal government to collect and standardize the disparate data, and to provide demographic details on the tenants and property owners involved in evictions. Collecting data The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development collects data on tenants who leave public housing, but it does not gather information on people who are evicted from private housing. In 2020, Congress directed the agency to study the feasibility of creating an evictions database, but four years later, it doesnt exist. Theres virtually nothing on anything that might happen outside of the court system, like more informal evictions where its maybe just a threat, and the person moves out. Jill Naamane, a director at the U.S. Government Accountability Office In the absence of a federal database, the Eviction Lab has become one of the primary sources of eviction information. But the group relies on court filings, and despite aggregating more than 99 million eviction records and 30,000 county reports on eviction filings between 2000 and 2018, it does not have reliable data for the counties that include a third of renters. In one county, they use one software and track it digitally, and literally the neighboring county could be something completely different, said Camila Vallejo, a researcher at the Eviction Lab. It makes it really hard to funnel that data outwards if all the courts arent [using] the same resources or instructions. Property owners typically seek to evict tenants for nonpayment of rent or other violations of lease agreements. Owners begin eviction proceedings by notifying the tenant, then filing a lawsuit in a local court. Court filings allow researchers to determine how often property owners begin this process, but they can be a poor measurement of actual evictions. For example, the filings dont always indicate whether the court has ruled in favor of the landlord and ordered the tenants to leave. A tenant might leave voluntarily after getting an eviction notice, or the property owner might drop the filing after reaching a payment agreement with the tenant. Even after an eviction judgment, a landlord might allow a tenant to remain if certain conditions are met. Property owners also might pursue an informal eviction outside the court system, by changing entry-door locks or shutting off utilities. Carl Gershenson, the director of the Eviction Lab, said the group is working on ways to fill in some of those gaps. A lot of this involves linking the eviction records to other sources of address data, Gershenson said. Were close to getting a good estimate of how many people are ultimately displaced upon receiving these filings. Advances in artificial intelligence might aid such efforts, according to Tim Thomas, director of the Urban Displacement Project at the University of Toronto and the University of California, Berkeley. Thomas noted that even the limited eviction data that is available now has had a profound impact on policy. For example, he said, it helped prompt the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to issue a moratorium on evictions during the pandemic. That cut eviction filings by more than half in 31 cities tracked by the Eviction Lab. The pandemic put gasoline on the fire, said Thomas. The data we had prior to the pandemic helped inspire the CDC moratorium. Without that data, we wouldnt have had as strong of a response. Who is most affected Recent studies on the demographics of the people evicted also have had an effect on policy, advocates say. Multiple studies and reports show that Black women, infants and young children are disproportionately affected by evictions. Such research has helped spur state legislation to guarantee tenants right to counsel in eviction proceedings. The National Coalition for a Civil Right to Counsel estimates that 83% of landlords have a lawyer in eviction proceedings, compared with 4% of tenants. It also has sparked so-called just cause laws that limit the reasons a landlord can evict a tenant or refuse to renew a lease. Colorado Democratic state Rep. Javier Mabrey, an eviction lawyer who sponsored a just cause measure that Democratic Gov. Jared Polis signed into law in April, said he was inspired by personal experience: When he was 15, a landlord evicted him, his brother and his permanently disabled mother, leaving them homeless. He told Stateline that bringing House Speaker Julie McCluskie, a fellow Democrat, to see eviction court helped earn her support after she voted against the measure last year. This year, after coming to eviction court with me, it was one of the bills that she highlighted in her speech opening the legislative session, Mabrey said. When you peel back the curtain on the eviction process, it highlights the need for these protections for tenants. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE COLUMBUS, OH - MARCH 03: An eviction notice is posted and the lock is changed on a residence in the unincorporated community of Galloway on March 3, 2021 west of Columbus, Ohio. Property Management teams are given 1 1/2 hours to remove all items from the property under supervision of the service bailiff. (Photo by Stephen Zenner/Getty Images) Evictions are a window into Americas rental housing crisis: In 2022, more than half of all renters spent over a third of their income on housing, and millions of tenants who miss rent payments are evicted each year. When renters are kicked out of their homes, the consequences can be disastrous. Families might lose their possessions when they are piled on the sidewalk, or cant afford the fee to get them out of storage. Children might have to switch schools, and studies show that evictions often lead to job loss and depression. The most recent eviction data, based on court records, suggests that 3.6 million evictions were filed in 2018, or 7.8 for every 100 renter households. Those numbers, from the Eviction Lab at Princeton University, are considered to be the best available. But they dont come close to painting a full picture. Court records on eviction filings vary from county to county, and typically dont contain much information beyond names and addresses. Crucially, they usually dont detail the eventual outcome of the legal proceedings. And legal records only represent evictions that make it to court, not informal ones that occur outside the legal process, such as when a property owner simply changes the locks. Theres virtually nothing on anything that might happen outside of the court system, like more informal evictions where its maybe just a threat, and the person moves out, said Jill Naamane, a director at the U.S. Government Accountability Office and the lead author of a recent report on the limits of eviction data. Evictions are called something different in lots of different places. There are writs of this and complaints of that, and even after understanding all those different nuances in the thousands of places, you still may not really have a good data set. Researchers and housing advocates say policymakers need better eviction information to make meaningful progress in addressing the nations affordable housing crisis. Many of them are calling on the federal government to collect and standardize the disparate data, and to provide demographic details on the tenants and property owners involved in evictions. Collecting data The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development collects data on tenants who leave public housing, but it does not gather information on people who are evicted from private housing. In 2020, Congress directed the agency to study the feasibility of creating an evictions database, but four years later, it doesnt exist. In the absence of a federal database, the Eviction Lab has become one of the primary sources of eviction information. But the group relies on court filings, and despite aggregating more than 99 million eviction records and 30,000 county reports on eviction filings between 2000 and 2018, it does not have reliable data for the counties that include a third of renters. In one county, they use one software and track it digitally, and literally the neighboring county could be something completely different, said Camila Vallejo, a researcher at the Eviction Lab. It makes it really hard to funnel that data outwards if all the courts arent [using] the same resources or instructions. Property owners typically seek to evict tenants for nonpayment of rent or other violations of lease agreements. Owners begin eviction proceedings by notifying the tenant, then filing a lawsuit in a local court. Court filings allow researchers to determine how often property owners begin this process, but they can be a poor measurement of actual evictions. Theres virtually nothing on anything that might happen outside of the court system, like more informal evictions where its maybe just a threat, and the person moves out. Jill Naamane, a director at the U.S. Government Accountability Office For example, the filings dont always indicate whether the court has ruled in favor of the landlord and ordered the tenants to leave. A tenant might leave voluntarily after getting an eviction notice, or the property owner might drop the filing after reaching a payment agreement with the tenant. Even after an eviction judgment, a landlord might allow a tenant to remain if certain conditions are met. Property owners also might pursue an informal eviction outside the court system, by changing entry-door locks or shutting off utilities. Carl Gershenson, the director of the Eviction Lab, said the group is working on ways to fill in some of those gaps. A lot of this involves linking the eviction records to other sources of address data, Gershenson said. Were close to getting a good estimate of how many people are ultimately displaced upon receiving these filings. Advances in artificial intelligence might aid such efforts, according to Tim Thomas, director of the Urban Displacement Project at the University of Toronto and the University of California, Berkeley. Thomas noted that even the limited eviction data that is available now has had a profound impact on policy. For example, he said, it helped prompt the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to issue a moratorium on evictions during the pandemic. That cut eviction filings by more than half in 31 cities tracked by the Eviction Lab. The pandemic put gasoline on the fire, said Thomas. The data we had prior to the pandemic helped inspire the CDC moratorium. Without that data, we wouldnt have had as strong of a response. Who is most affected Recent studies on the demographics of the people evicted also have had an effect on policy, advocates say. Multiple studies and reports show that Black women, infants and young children are disproportionately affected by evictions. Such research has helped spur state legislation to guarantee tenants right to counsel in eviction proceedings. The National Coalition for a Civil Right to Counsel estimates that 83% of landlords have a lawyer in eviction proceedings, compared with 4% of tenants. It also has sparked so-called just cause laws that limit the reasons a landlord can evict a tenant or refuse to renew a lease. Colorado Democratic state Rep. Javier Mabrey, an eviction lawyer who sponsored a just cause measure that Democratic Gov. Jared Polis signed into law in April, said he was inspired by personal experience: When he was 15, a landlord evicted him, his brother and his permanently disabled mother, leaving them homeless. He told Stateline that bringing House Speaker Julie McCluskie, a fellow Democrat, to see eviction court helped earn her support after she voted against the measure last year. This year, after coming to eviction court with me, it was one of the bills that she highlighted in her speech opening the legislative session, Mabrey said. When you peel back the curtain on the eviction process, it highlights the need for these protections for tenants. Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. Follow Stateline on Facebook and X. ineskoleva / Getty Images/iStockphoto Nobody likes high gas prices. While presidential candidates like Donald Trump often cite a desire to reduce gas prices, the truth is that the U.S. president doesnt have a ton of control over them. What this means is that, even if Trump ends up back in the Oval Office, theres no guarantee that youd end up paying more or less when filling up at the pump. Check Out: Trump Wants To Eliminate Income Taxes: Heres What That Would Mean for the Economy and Your Wallet Up Next: $10K or More in Debt? See If You Could Become Debt-Free (for Less Than You Owe) That said, the president could have an indirect impact on gas prices. Certain policies and new legislation could influence the cost of gasoline. Just know that prices are primarily based on oil prices, which are largely related to supply and demand. These are the main factors that actually influence gas prices, and how Donald Trump may influence them if hes elected again. Earning passive income doesn't need to be difficult. You can start this week. Domestic Production Could Increase According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, domestic petroleum refineries take crude oil (and similar liquids) and convert it into gasoline and other petroleum products. This crude oil is often imported from other countries, but many refineries use a combination of domestic and foreign oils. The majority of gasoline sold in the U.S. comes from U.S. refineries. If Trump gets elected and introduces new policies to change the way gasoline or the crude oils it comes from is produced or obtained, it could impact the cost of production and what consumers pay at the pump. Donald Trump typically prefers strategies aimed at raising domestic production levels while reducing regulatory burdens on those firms that deal with fossil fuels, said Chuck Warren, political economist and host of the Breaking Battlegrounds politics podcast. His administrations policies were more focused on energy independence and deregulation of the oil and gas industry. If Trumps policies result in more domestic production, it could lead to lower gas prices. See More: Im an Investor: Im Making These Money Moves Immediately If Trump Wins Short- and Long-Term Impact on Gas Prices Warren believes Trumps potential policies could have a short- and long-term effect on gasoline prices. In the short term, he said there could be an overall reduction in petroleum prices. This is due to two main factors: The increased production of oil domestically means greater supply (and can be more cost-effective than importing gasoline or the crude oils necessary to produce it). Deregulation could mean less restrictions on drilling, which could also enhance the current supply and reduce expenses for consumers. Since Trump has also had a history of supporting the fossil fuel industry, it could mean lower gas prices. Story continues In the long term, Warren said, Prices may stay low. However, this wouldnt necessarily just be due to whos in office. Other factors like environmental factors and market volatility can also affect gasoline prices. If oil prices go up on a global scale, it could affect domestic production (and costs). According to the EIA, these are the other main factors that directly affect gasoline prices: Cost of crude oil (domestic production could lower this, depending on other factors like supply and demand) Taxes (federal, state and local) Cost of refining oil and profitability (vary by season and region) Marketing and distribution costs and profits (vary by factors like retail dealer costs, shipping costs, etc.) History Speaks for Itself Historically speaking, the U.S. president hasnt been the main factor contributing to gasoline prices. Back in early 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine, oil prices skyrocketed due to concerns over supply. This isnt too surprising considering Russia is one of the leading oil producers in the world. At that time, the price of gasoline was around $3.60 per gallon. Within about a week, prices had risen to over $4 a gallon. A couple of months later, theyd gone up to an average of $5 a gallon nationwide. During this period, President Biden strived to get a handle on the situation. This included drawing a record amount of gasoline from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). His administration did claim that they were able to keep prices from rising even more, but this is largely speculation. This isnt the only incident that gives weight to the concept that the U.S. president doesnt have quite as much control over gasoline prices as people might think. Since 1993, gas prices have risen pretty consistently with only a few notable drops. One of the biggest dips in gasoline prices occurred in the 2000s when the cost per gallon went from $4.11 in December 2008 to $1.75 in January 2009. This was during the 2008 financial crisis and the Great Recession, which hit the oil and gas sector, leading to falling revenues for these companies and significantly reduced prices. As 2008 was an election year, one could argue that the presidential election had an impact on gasoline prices. But the main thing affecting these prices was the way the housing market crashed something that was largely due to risky lending practices. Bottom Line As Warren pointed out, a Trump presidency could mean more focus on deregulation and prioritizing domestic gasoline production and refinement. This could then lead to lower prices both in the short- and long-term. However, the long-term impact might not be as significant as it seems. This is because external factors like taxation, production and distribution costs, supply and demand and even global factors can all affect the overall cost of gasoline. Along with this, gas prices continue to rise, seemingly regardless of whos in office. As of July 2024, a gallon of fuel goes for $3.60 on average. While there was a dip in June 2022 (which is when prices reached their peak of $5 a gallon before declining), theyve since been steadily on the rise. Editors note on election coverage: GOBankingRates is nonpartisan and strives to cover all aspects of the economy objectively and present balanced reports on politically focused finance stories. You can find more coverage of this topic on GOBankingRates.com. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: What Gas Prices Could Look Like in 2025 If Trump Wins BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) The Lackawanna City School District announced Tuesday morning the implementation of its new no cell phones/electronics policy, which will take effect in the 2024-25 school year. Lockable phone bags will be provided for all students to put their phones in at the start of the school day, the district said in a statement. The bags will stay securely locked and remain in students possession throughout the day. At the end of the school day, the bags will be unlocked. According to the district, students who dont adhere to the policy will be in violation of the districts student code of conduct. The consequences will be applied accordingly based on the nature of the infraction, the district said. The districts decision comes after Gov. Kathy Hochul started a push in July that would ban cell phones across the state. She went on tours around New York to study the effects of social media use on teenagers. New York City, Los Angeles and the state of Virginia have already made moves to ban phones in schools. LCSD understands that this significant change requires the cooperation and support of all families, the district said in a statement. The district emphasizes the importance of parents discussing the new rule with their children and encouraging them to embrace it as a positive step toward their academic and personal growth. The district will host town hall meetings for parents and guardians to learn about the policy and provide their thoughts and feedback. The meetings will be held on the following dates: 9:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 19 in the high school/middle school library 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 29 in the high school cafeteria Latest Local News Katie Skoog joined the News 4 team in April 2024. She is a graduate from the University at Buffalo. You can view more of her work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. Las Cruces woman saved from house fire with possible life-threatening injuries Las Cruces woman saved from house fire with possible life-threatening injuries EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A 52-year-old woman with potential life-threatening injuries, was rescued by Las Cruces Fire Department firefighters after she was stuck in a house fire. Firefighters were dispatched to a residential structure fire at roughly 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 5 at the 1300 block of Bon Burt Ln. According to LCFD, fire crews discovered heavy smoke coming from the home and learned from bystanders that a disabled woman was possibly inside. Firefighters entered the home to search for the woman and attack the fire, according to LCFD. They found the woman in a bathroom and immediately removed her from the burning home. The woman was given initial medical care and was then transported to a local hospital with potentially life-threatening injuries, LCFD said. No other injuries were reported and the house fire was brought under control in 10 minutes. Officials are still investigating the cause of the fire and damage estimates. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A man faces several charges, including child abuse and assault with a deadly weapon, after police said he fired a gun several times at a house party following a fight, according to police documents. On July 22 at around 1:45 a.m., officers with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department were called to the 2000 block of Bracken Avenue, near South Eastern Avenue and East Charleston Boulevard, after reports of a shooting at a house party. According to a 911 call, a large party was happening at the home when a man started shooting, according to an arrest report. Several people were in the driveway while the man was shooting towards them, including an 11-year-old. The man then left the neighborhood in a red vehicle. One of the victims told police a family friend at the party, later identified as Hector Ivan Salas-Cardiel, called her a derogatory term for women. Her husband and son confronted Salas-Cardiel, who then left the party, the report stated. Hector Ivan Salas-Cardiel several charges, including child abuse and assault with a deadly weapon, after police said he fired a gun several times at a house party following a fight. (LVMPD) The victim was in the driveway with her 11-year-old godson when Salas-Cardiel returned minutes later. She told police he pulled up to the home and before she could tell him to go away, he started shooting, firing approximately six rounds toward the home before driving away, according to the report. In addition to four apparent bullet impacts on the home, police found two apparent bullet holes in a palm tree the 11-year-old was standing near when the shooting began, the report stated. On July 30, a week after the shooting, Salas-Cardiel turned himself in to police at the Clark County Detention Center, accompanied by his lawyer, police said. Salas-Cardiel faces charges of child abuse/neglect with use of a deadly weapon, two counts of assault with a deadly weapon, seven counts of discharging a firearm from within a structure or vehicle, and five counts of discharging a firearm at or into a structure or vehicle. Salas-Cardiel posted bail and was released on Aug. 1. As part of his bail conditions, Salas-Cardiel was placed on high-level monitoring and is not to have any weapons in his possession. Court records show Salas-Cardiel was set to appear in court Tuesday morning. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department K9 officer is back on the job after a stabbing almost took his life nearly five months ago. K9 Enzos partner reported that the three-year-old Belgian Malinois injuries from the stabbing have finally healed. Since returning to work in mid-July the four-legged officer has already apprehended three suspects. A Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department K9 officer is back on the job after a stabbing almost took his life nearly five months ago. (LVMPD/X) Las Vegas police K9 stabbed multiple times during barricade, fire On Monday, Las Vegas police posted an update and a thank you on X, to the community, for their support, gifts, and well-wishes to Enzo over the past few months. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department posted a picture of the outpouring of support and gifts K9 Enzo and his partner have received from the community. (LVMPD/X) The stabbing took place on March 29 when officers were responding to a barricade in downtown Las Vegas. Enzo was assisting the officers as they attempted to talk down a suspect in the area when he was stabbed multiple times, police said. Enzo was airlifted to a local animal hospital where he underwent surgery and recovered in the ICU. LVMPD K9 Enzo is back on the job after the stabbing incident that nearly took his life. (LVMPD/X) He had been with the department for approximately one year when the stabbing occurred. On its X post on Monday, police also added that Enzo has no lasting effects from the incident and is back out there protecting our community. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. K-12 open enrollment is an increasingly common and popular form of school choice, allowing students to attend classes outside their assigned public school zone. Since 2021, 10 states have significantly improved their open enrollment laws, creating a boundaryless and student-centered education system. While strong programs are new in some states, others, like Colorado, have fostered robust open enrollment laws for decades. As a result, today, more than one-quarter of Colorados K-12 students in traditional districts participate in open enrollment, attending the schools that they and their parents decided are the best fit. Established policies like Colorados are hopefully a harbinger of whats to come for students and families in other states. Get stories like these delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter Established 30 years ago, Colorados open enrollment law, known as the Public Schools of Choice program, requires all districts to accept transfer students free of charge, so long as space is available. New Colorado Department of Education data shows that more than 199,000 students 28% of enrollment in traditional public schools statewide used open enrollment during the 2023-24 school year. This participation is impressive, especially compared with other states with robust open enrollment laws and bigger populations. Florida and Arizona, for example, saw nearly 273,000 and 115,000 students, respectively, transfer to public schools of their choice through their open enrollment programs. More than 142,000 students, or 20% of all traditional public school students in Colorado, transferred to schools within their district last academic year, and about 57,000, or 8%, used cross-district open enrollment to switch to schools outside their zone. Of the cross-district transfer students, 81% attended brick-and-mortar schools and nearly 11,000 19% enrolled in online classes. Fewer than 1% of Colorados online transfer students used open enrollment to enroll full time in a single district, meaning most used open enrollment to customize their educational experience a la carte, choosing specific classes from multiple districts. Related In South Florida, Parents Are Building Their Childrens Education a la Carte While most of Colorados cross-district transfers occurred in urban or suburban schools, 12% more than 7,000 students chose to enroll in rural districts. Approximately 23% of rural districts relied on cross-district transfers for 20% or more of their total enrollment. This is noteworthy because rural districts and policymakers have worried about the impacts open enrollment and school choice could have on their schools, even though data from other states show that many rural school districts use open enrollment to attract students. Small and rural school districts in other states, including California, increasingly rely on open enrollment transfers to help remain fiscally solvent. Riverside Unified School District school administrator Timothy Walker explained the importance of open enrollment programs, saying, Does it make money? No. But does it keep our people employed? Yes. Does it keep our financial situation stable? Yes. Does it increase educational options? Yes. Related School Choice Works in Rural America Just Take a Look at Florida Students reap multiple benefits as well. Research on open enrollment finds a variety of reasons for transferring schools, including bullying, shortened commutes, smaller class sizes and access to specialized courses, such as Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and career preparation. According to data provided by the Colorado Department of Education, many students in that state, like their peers in Florida, Wisconsin and Arizona, transfer to top districts, including those receiving high ratings from the Colorado Department of Education. Still, as Colorado Gov. Jared Polis pointed out last fall, lawmakers can further improve the states open enrollment policy by making the system more transparent. State Rep. Lisa Frizell introduced a bill this spring to make the process more transparent and family-friendly by requiring school districts to post the number of seats they have available for each grade and mandating that the Department of Education publish the number of transfers received and rejected by each district. These reforms are essential to improving the public schools and strengthening open enrollment laws. Parents, policymakers and taxpayers must be able to access information and hold districts accountable, particularly if schools are groundlessly blocking transfers or charging fees and tuition to transfer students. At least 13 states, including Arizona and Wisconsin, have adopted some or all of these transparency provisions. With eight states having adopted strong open enrollment laws since 2022, 21 now have cross- or within-district open enrollment. During the 2024 legislative sessions, state policymakers have introduced approximately 40 proposals in 21 states to improve their open enrollment laws. In these places, students zip codes are no longer the only factor determining their educational options and futures. Instead, more students and families can choose the public schools that are the right fit for them. Last-minute need to knows for KS Primary Election Last-minute need to knows for KS Primary Election TOPEKA (KSNT) Election Day can be stressful. Heres some last-minute details and information to help prepare voters for the 2024 Primary Election. If you are a registered Democrat, Republican, or an Unaffiliated voter who wishes to join a party, youre able to vote in the Kansas Primary election Tuesday, Aug. 6. The deadline to register to vote for this election was July 16. There are 87 different polling locations throughout Shawnee County. Shawnee County Election Commissioner, Andrew Howell, told 27 News he encourages voters to to know where their assigned polling location is throughout the county. I just encourage people to, you know, know where your polling location is, and make sure you know the route that is open and available, Howell said. Click here to check on your voter registration and assigned polling location. Washburn University welcomes new degree this fall Election workers throughout Shawnee County are working hard to ensure a smooth election process for voters. Weve tried to make it so you can get in and get out quickly and efficiently. Make sure we have plenty of ADA, parking, and meeting the ADA requirements, Howell said. There will be a team of democrats and republican election workers to assist you, and youre welcome to call the election office for questions. The Shawnee County elections office hopes to have election results in by late Tuesday night. KSNT 27 News will have live updates on the election on our website. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, looking to strengthen the Democratic ticket in Midwestern states. She introduced Walz at a rally Tuesday evening in Philadelphia. Harris was the only candidate eligible to receive votes after no other candidate qualified by a deadline last week. She officially claimed the nomination Monday night when the DNC released final results. Follow the APs Election-2024 coverage at: https://apnews.com/hub/election-2024. Heres the Latest: Vance goes after Harris Ohio Sen. JD Vance is arguing again that Vice President Kamala Harris caved to the far left by not picking Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro as her running mate. Vance appeared Tuesday night on Fox News Hannity, hours after Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz took the stage for the first time with Harris as the Democratic ticket. Vance and other Republicans have suggested that Shapiro, who is Jewish, wasnt chosen due to antisemitism. Some liberal activists criticized Shapiro for his backing of Israel during its war in Gaza following Hamas Oct. 7 attack. Vance also criticized Harris for not holding a recent press conference or taking questions from reporters. Rural Americans organize for Harris-Walz A line-up of federal, state and local elected officials, plus a few celebrities, joined a call to rally rural Americans for the Harris-Walz campaign -- but one expected headliner was notably missing. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was advertised as a featured guest on the call, but Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan kicked things off, saying she was pinch hitting for the newly named vice presidential candidate. Flanagan, who herself would make history as the first Native woman to be Minnesotas governor if Harris and Walz were to win in November, touted Walzs progressive accomplishments and good nature. Walz wraps his remarks Saying God bless America, Walz pivoted amid the applause to wrap his arms around Harris in a bear hug. The two clasped hands as Harris grinned and, with her other hand, pointed at Walz to the cheering audience. Their spouses joined them on stage for waves and applause before the new Democratic ticket stepped off the stage and to the edge of the crowd for photographs and handshakes with voters in the Temple University auditorium. Walz once again labels Vance, his now VP competition, as weird Walz is reprising the weird phraseology to describe Republicans that has become a hallmark of his stump appearances and garnered the governor plaudits from younger Americans. Taking swipes at Vance, Walz said his GOP rival and Trump are creepy and yes, theyre weird as hell. I cant wait to debate the guy, Walz added. Stumping earlier today in Pennsylvania, Vance said, I absolutely want to debate Tim Walz, but not until after the Democratic convention. He rouses the crowd with a smile on his face Walz, the former Army sergeant and football coach, is speaking in an old-school, rousing, populist style. In a feisty tone, dropping damn well and come on into his remarks, with a Midwestern dialect, Walz is delivering a strong indictment of Trump with a bit of laughter. Say it with me! We are not going back, he belted, starting a chant from the audience. Weve got 91 days. My god, thats easy, he said. Well sleep when were dead. Walz shares his familys personal history with IVF Walz has made a personal connection with one of the marquee issues in this years election: in vitro fertilization. Walz said talking about IVF gets personal for me and my family. It wasnt by chance that, when we welcomed our daughter into the world, we named her Hope, he told the crowd. Abortion opponents have been increasingly pushing for broader measures that would give rights and protections to embryos and fetuses, which could have massive implications for fertility treatments and other areas of health care. Democrats routinely cite IVF concerns as part of a larger problem where women in some states are getting worse medical care since the fall of Roe vs. Wade, linking delayed IVF care to cases in states with abortion restrictions, where women must wait until they are very sick in order to get care. He may be Minnesotas governor, but hes still a Nebraska native Walz sometimes talks about his native state of Nebraska more than the one he leads. He spoke about West Point, Nebraska, the small town of 400 where he was born, and where he spent the summers working on the family farm. My mom and dad taught us to show generosity towards our neighbors and work for a common good, he added. Walz takes the stage Walz began his remarks by thanking Harris for selecting him. The campaigner known as being upbeat said, Thank you for bringing back the joy! Following a shoutout to Gov. Josh Shapiro, Walz praised his wife, a 29-year public school teacher, wryly plugging a key constituency, Dont ever underestimate teachers. Different backgrounds Harris noted her and Walzs different backgrounds: Shes from Oakland and hes from Nebraska, but they have common ideals. After all, the promise of America is what makes it possible for two middle-class kids, Harris said, to make it all the way to the White House. Coach Walz and I may come from different corners of our country, she said, but we believe in picking people up not knocking them down. And without naming Vance, Harris argued for the superiority of her running mates experience over his GOP rival, using a sports analogy as the former football coach stood by. Saying Walz would be ready on day one, Harris characterized the race between her running mate and Vance as a matchup between the varsity team and the JV squad. Harris campaign rakes in over $20 million Harris selection of Walz as her running mate has been another fundraising boon for the Democratic presidential ticket. Her campaign announced shortly before 6:30 p.m. that it has raised more than $20 million since the vice president unveiled the Minnesota governor as her running mate. The Harris campaign has seen a surge in fundraising since she took over the top of the ticket, raising more than $310 million in July. Well over $200 million of that total came after Harris took over top billing from President Joe Biden on July 21. Walz is certified by the DNC As Walz took the stage with Harris in Philadelphia, his status as Democrats No. 2 for the general election was announced as official. Democratic National Committee Chairman Jaime Harrison and Minyon Moore, chair of Democrats upcoming convention, said in a statement that Harris and Walz had been certified as their partys nominees. Late Monday night, Harris officially secured the delegates needed to become her partys presidential nominee. Hours later, she named Walz as her running mate. Harris highlights Walzs political record Harris ticked through Walzs record as Minnesota governor, saying he supports her goal of fighting for the middle class. Walz was the first governor in the country to sign a law enshrining abortion as a right, she said. She noted paid leave for women and voting rights. But the biggest applause of the list came when Harris noted Walzs move to provide meals to all public school students. He refused to let students go hungry, she said. So, he made school breakfast and lunch free for every child. Harris also pointed out that her new running mate is a hunter and a gun owner too, then immediately noting that as governor Walz expanded background checks and increased penalties for illegal firearm sales. Harris highlights Walzs teaching credentials Under those Friday night lights Coach Walz motivated his players, Harris said referring to his time as high school football coach, Going from a winless record to the schools first-ever state championship. She went on to note how as football coach he helped start the schools gay-straight alliance because hes the kind of person who makes them feel like they belong, she said. Thats the kind of vice president hes going to be and thats the kind of vice president America deserves. Sergeant major, congressman, coach Harris introduced Walz as more than a governor by running through the titles hes held over the years. Beyond that of husband and father, Harris said he was Sergeant Major Walz to his fellow veterans, Congressman to voters of southern Minnesota, Mr. Walz to the high school students he used to teach and Coach to the football players he coached. And in 91 days, the nation will know Coach Walz by another name: vice president of the United States, Harris said to cheers. Harris frames Walz as the partner she's been looking for Harris took the stage in Philadelphia for the first time as the Democratic presidential nominee Tuesday, amid raucous cheers in an auditorium on the campus of Temple University. But her intro was serious. We need to move to the general election and win that, she said. We also need to level set. We are the underdogs in this race, but we have the momentum and I know exactly what were up against. In preparing to hand off to Walz, Harris is building him up as the partner she had been looking for during her quick search for a running mate. I set out to find a partner who can help build this brighter future, a leader that will help unite our nation and move us forward, she said. Pennsylvania, Im here today because I found such a leader, Gov. Tim Walz of the great state of Minnesota. Harris and Walz take the stage Vice President Kamala Harris has made her first appearance with her newly chosen running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. Harris and Walz have taken the stage together at a packed rally in Philadelphia. The pair ignited sustained cheers as they appeared before thousands at Temple Universitys Liacouras Center. Walz, the 60-year-old governor and former U.S. House member from rural south central Minnesota, put his hands together and bowed to the crowd. He stood alongside Harris as she waved to the audience and put her hand over her heart, wrapping the other around Walz. According to excerpts provided by the campaign, Walz plans to use his speech to say that Minnesota values are American values. Biden learned about Walz from Harris, not the news He heard it first from the vice president, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters at her regular briefing. She said she couldnt pinpoint exactly where the president was when Harris called on Tuesday morning, but that he was somewhere in the executive mansion. She called him to let him know of her pick, Jean-Pierre said. Harris had sought Bidens advice during her search for a running mate, but Jean-Pierre left it there and declined to get into any specifics. Biden also spoke with Walz and congratulated him on his selection. Philadelphia mayor calls for unity among Democrats Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, who advocated fiercely but unsuccessfully for her states governor, Josh Shapiro, to be Harris running mate now says, Our Democratic nominee has spoken and thats it. Period. End of story. At a rally in her city on Tuesday, Parker urged Pennsylvania Democrats to rally behind Harris choice. Noting that Republicans and detractors would attempt to divide Democrats over the pick Parker says that the party cant let them. Parker made headlines last week for posting a video praising Harris and Shapiro, which some thought suggested Harris had already picked Shapiro as her running mate. Instead, Harris chose Walz and the pair will appear together for the first time at the Philadelphia rally. The last politician to face off against Tim Walz has some advice for JD Vance Dr. Scott Jensen, a physician and former Republican Minnesota state senator, was the last political candidate to run against Walz in a general election but lost by nearly 8 points. Jensen says Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance should be prepared for Walzs fast-talking debate style. He also thinks Walzs appeal in rural areas has been overstated. Tim Walz can talk around a topic extremely effectively. He will give people the impression that he is the candidate of the common, everyday person, Jensen said. But if you look at the results of the 2022 election, Tim Walz really won the election because of the Twin Cities, Duluth and Rochester. He also pointed out that in the 2022 governors race, Walz lost many of the counties in the district he previously represented in Congress. Tim Walz lost the district in which the people who knew him best were offered the opportunity to make a decision about his candidacy, Jensen said. I think thats telling. Trump will sit for an interview with Elon Musk Trump says that he will do an interview with billionaire Tesla CEO Elon Musk next week. Musk endorsed the Republican for president after Trump survived an assassination attempt. ON MONDAY NIGHT ILL BE DOING A MAJOR INTERVIEW WITH ELON MUSK Details to follow! Trump posted on his social media network. His campaign did not immediately have more details to share. Trump, a longtime opponent of electric cars, said over the weekend at his rally in Atlanta that he favors electric cars for a small slice of the population, saying, I have to be, you know, because Elon endorsed me very strongly. He added: So I have no choice. Expect Walz to extol Harris during his first running mate appearance Ahead of a rally in Philadelphia, the Harris campaign has released experts of Walzs prepared remarks where hell introduce himself to the nation, highlight his support for Harris and emphasize stopping Trump at the ballot. Walz will say that the vice president has fought on the side of the American people and brings joy to everything she does. Minnesotas strength comes from our values our commitment to working together, to seeing past our differences, to lending a helping hand, Walz plans to tell the rally. Donald Trump he sees the world differently. He doesnt know the first thing about service because hes too busy serving himself. The phone call that sealed the deal Wearing khakis and a camouflage baseball cap, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz accepted a phone call from Vice President Kamala Harris. The Harris campaign has posted a video of the call on social media. Hi, this is Tim, Walz said into his phone. Its Kamala Harris. Good morning, governor, the Democratic nominee said with a big smile. Listen, I want you to do this with me. Lets do this together. Would you be my running mate? I would be honored, madame vice president, Walz said. The two exchanged pleasantries over the roughly minute-long video and Harris ended the call with an, All right, buddy. Ill see you soon. Take care. The campaign said it has raised more than $10 million from grassroots supporters alone since Walz became her running mate. Voter Voices: I was open for whoever she picked Marnie Fowler, a 44-year-old Philadelphia who works in concert touring, wore a blue T-shirt she recently purchased online that said: Childless Cat Lady, a reference to remarks by GOP vice presidential candidate JD Vance. Farlow said she wanted Walz all along. Hes Americas dad, Farlow said. Everything hes done in Minnesota aligns with my values. Cheryl Pitts, a 77-year-old retired state worker from Sicklerville, New Jersey, said she was a little bit disappointed that Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro wasnt picked, but it wont stop us from voting; it didnt diminish my excitement. She called Walz a regular kind of guy that I can believe what he says. Bernie Strain, 66, wore a shirt he made himself for the rally that said: OLD WHITE MEN FOR HARRIS & FREEDOM. Strain said hed met Shapiro through politics but was ready to support whoever Harris selected. I was open for whoever she picked, he said. I was going to support them with both feet. A Republican strategist actually praising Harris VP pick Mark Campbell is a rare Republican whos publicly praising Harris choice of Walz, calling it a home run. Campbell, a veteran GOP strategist who managed Glenn Youngkins winning 2021 Virginia governors campaign, ticked through a number of areas he suggests Walz reinforces Harris, first as an authentic surrogate in the northern battleground states of Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. An enlisted Army veteran, not officer class, Walz is plainspoken, folksy in a way that will play well in the burbs and rural areas, Cambell said. Hes progressive, but not too far from center, he said, and will align with Harris on policy 90% of the time. Campbell called the selection rock steady. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear says Walz is a good pick for Harris running mate Beshear said it was a true honor of a lifetime to be considered for Vice President Kamala Harris running mate and that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was a good pick. He is a great friend, Beshear told reporters outside his office in the Kentucky Capitol on Tuesday afternoon. Hed be an amazing vice president. I am 100% onboard with doing everything I can to elect the Harris-Walz ticket this November. Beshear declined to comment on the process -- when he was interviewed for the job and if he heard from Harris or her team Tuesday morning. Man who owned rights to HarrisWalz.com says hes sold the domain; declined to name the buyer Jeremy Green Eche, the trademark lawyer who purchased HarrisWalz.com for $8.99 in 2020, sold the domain - and a slate of others linked to Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris - on Tuesday for $15,000, he told The Associated Press shortly after the order was made. Eche declined to say who bought the domains, but said they have no obvious connection to either campaign or anything political. Harris selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate Tuesday. Eche bought the rights to the site and others in 2020 when the would-be vice president was in the midst of a primary campaign for president. When he learned Walz was the pick, Eche was particularly excited, both because the Harris supporter liked Walz best out of the men the vice president was considering, and because it meant someone paying his $15,000 asking price was more likely. Now that the site was sold, however, Eche says he feels glad but odd. I feel strange, he said, like it happened too soon. The domains were sold on the website for Eches start-up, Communer, a forum that allows people to buy and sell domains and trademarks online. Eche said the website will now draw up a domain transfer contract between himself and the buyer. Group founded by Republican women opposed to Trump support Walz A group founded in June by current and former Republican women who oppose Donald Trump for president came out in favor of Walz as Harris pick, in part for Walzs fiscal measures and policy accomplishments aimed at women. As Governor, hes cut taxes for the middle class while balancing the budget, supported paid family leave so new mothers can be home to care for their children, expanded access to pre-kindergarten, and make sure that no Minnesotan child goes hungry at school, a release from Women4U.S. states. The group is a federal superPAC whose honorary advisers include former New Jersey Gov. Christine Todd Whitman, former New Hampshire Republican Chair Jennifer Horn and founding editor of The Weekly Standard, Bill Kristol. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi welcomes Walz to the race Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi welcomed the Minnesotan to what she called the Harris-Walz freedom ticket. In the Congress, I saw firsthand Tim Walzs leadership, collaborative spirit and effectiveness in bringing people together and getting the job done, Pelosi said in a statement. The former Democratic House speaker was pivotal in reshaping the presidential race as President Joe Biden stepped aside and she said the field of potential VP candidates demonstrated the strength and vitality of the next generation of Democratic leadership. Wisconsin Sen. Tammy Baldwin: Were thrilled to see a fellow Midwesterner at the top of the ticket It didnt take Wisconsin Sen. Tammy Baldwin long to seize on Harris selection of Walz as a fundraising tool for her competitive reelection campaign. Were thrilled to see a fellow Midwesterner at the top of the ticket, Baldwin said in a fundraising email sent late Tuesday morning. Baldwin, seeking a third term, is among several incumbent Democratic senators seeking reelection in states viewed as pivotal to the presidential campaign, and where an uptick in enthusiasm since Harris takeover of Joe Bidens campaign has lifted the partys hope of holding the seat. Baldwin spoke at Harris first campaign stop as a candidate last month, an upbeat rally in suburban Milwaukee. Wisconsin has emerged as the tipping point state that will determine who wins the White House and which party controls the Senate, Baldwins email said. Biden carried Wisconsin in 2020 by fewer than 21,000 votes. Voto Latino co-founder says Walz as running mate will help energize Latino voters Voto Latino co-founder and President Maria Teresa Kumar said Walzs selection to the ticket would help energize Latino voters who want a more inclusive democracy. Kumar said in a statement that Walzs strong record of defending democracy, protecting voting rights, and standing up for working families in Minnesota aligns perfectly with the values our organization and the Latino community hold dear. She added that she knows the vice president and governor personally and knows theyll represent a powerful voice for progress, equality and opportunity for Latino communities and all Americans. Sen. Mark Kelly urges supporters to contribute to the Harris-Walz ticket Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly said he and his wife, former U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords, will do everything they can to elect Harris and Walz after Kelly was passed over for the Democratic ticket. Kelly sent an email to supporters urging them to contribute to the Harris-Walz ticket. Tim has years of experience representing Minnesota both in the House of Representatives, where he served with Gabby, and as Minnesotas governor, Kelly wrote. In that time, he has shown up time and time again for working families and I know hell continue that work in the White House. Meanwhile, the head of GIFFORDS, a gun-control advocacy group founded by Kelly and Giffords, called Walz a strong gun safety champion. Gun violence is a top concern for Americans this election cycle and we know the Harris-Walz ticket is the only one that will stand up to the gun lobby and save lives, said GIFFORDS Executive Director Emma Brown, who managed Kellys 2022 Senate campaign and was his deputy campaign manager when in his first race two years earlier 2020. Vance blames Harris policies for drug addiction deaths Vance is aiming to tie what he portrays as Harris failures along the U.S.-Mexico border to deaths from drug addiction. Vance told several hundred supporters gathered in a South Philadelphia event space that, thanks to the policies of Kamala Harris, youve got children whove been orphaned when their parents die from drugs. Several Pennsylvanians shared personal stories of how addiction issues have impacted their families. As he has over several speeches and interviews in recent weeks, Vance told his own story related to drug addition, noting that his mother has been drug-free for a decade but, as a child, he was desperately hoping and praying, Jesus, please let her wake up from this. U.S. government data undercuts the claim that people seeking asylum and other border crossers are responsible for drug trafficking. At a hearing last year, James Mandryck, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection deputy assistant commissioner, said 73% of fentanyl seizures at the border since the previous October were smuggling attempts carried out by U.S. citizens, with the rest being done by Mexican citizens. Barack and Michelle Obama say Harris has chosen an ideal partner Governor Walz doesnt just have the experience to be vice president, he has the values and the integrity to make us proud, the former president and first lady said in a statement. They said Walz enacted progressive priorities as Minnesota governor including paid family leave, abortion rights and gun safety measures. But Tims signature is his ability to talk like a human being and treat everyone with decency and respect, the Obamas said. Vance says he tried to get Walz on the phone The Republican told reporters aboard his campaign plane Tuesday that he called Walz earlier in the day but I left him a voicemail, I didnt get him. Its not clear if there will be a debate between Vance and Walz. Last week, Trump said he wouldnt take part in an ABC News debate that had been on the books for September because he made that agreement with Biden before the president exited the campaign. Instead, Trump said he would debate Harris on Sept. 4 on Fox News, but the vice president hasnt agreed to that time or network yet. President Joe Biden calls Harris-Walz ticket a powerful voice for working people and middle class Biden called on Democrats and all Americans to rally behind them. They will be the strongest defenders of our personal freedoms and our democracy, Biden said in a social media post. And they will ensure that America continues to lead the world and play its role as the indispensable nation. Biden said choosing a running mate is a party nominees first major decision and praised Harris choice. He said hes known Walz for nearly two decades, praising his background as a teacher, football coach and National Guard soldier. Every generation of Americans faces a moment where they are asked to defend American democracy, Biden said. That moment is now. White House Senior Deputy Press Secretary Emilie Simons says Biden and Harris spoke on the phone Tuesday morning ahead of the official announcement that she selected Walz and that Biden spoke with Walz to congratulate him. Vance says Walz pick as running mate highlights how radical Harris is In his first public comments since his general election foe was set, JD Vance on Tuesday called Walz a choice that highlights how radical Kamala Harris is. In a gaggle with reporters aboard his campaign plane upon landing in Philadelphia, Vance said Walz is a person who listens to the Hamas wing of the Democratic Party and who wants to make the American people more reliant on garbage energy instead of good American energy. Vance is speaking more to reporters in Philadelphia on Tuesday ahead of campaign events across Midwestern battleground states on Wednesday, in a path that somewhat mirrors Harris and Walzs planned trajectory. Former colleagues on Capitol Hill appear thrilled with Walz as the VP pick Great choice, said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. Having served for years with Tim in the House of Representatives, I can say without reservation: theres no better person Vice President Harris could have picked to run and then govern alongside her, said Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md. Walz has always put our country first, Van Hollen said, and hes excited to campaign for the Harris-Walz ticket for a brighter future for all Americans. Rep. Mark Takano of California recalled how after Walz beat him during an internal House caucus vote to become the top Democrat on the Veterans Affairs Committee, his colleague immediately brought me into the fold because thats the type of leader he is: a collaborative bridge builder. And Vermont Sen. Peter Welch, who entered Congress with Walz in 2007, said he has always had this very straightforward, direct, open approach to things. Welch described Walz as one of these guys in the gym who wouldnt undo his tie because it would be faster for him to get back to work. Polling shows the appeal of Tim Walzs biography Tim Walzs biography as a military veteran and former high school teacher two broadly trusted professions may also help him appeal to Americans as he campaigns with Vice President Kamala Harris. About 9 in 10 U.S. adults say they have a favorable opinion of military veterans, generally, according to an Ipsos poll conducted in 2024. About 8 in 10 say that about school teachers. Both measures are much higher than for government employees or elected officials. Republicans are slightly more likely than Democrats to have a positive view of veterans, while Democrats are a bit more likely to have a favorable opinion of those in a teaching career. Gallup polling from 2022 found that high school teachers are generally held in high regard among Americans for their honesty and ethical standards. About half, 53%, gave them at least a high rating on ethics. AP VoteCast shows Tim Walzs electoral strengths and weakness in Minnesota Democratic nominee Kamala Harris is hoping her VP choice, Tim Walz, will strengthen the Democratic ticket in Midwestern states and among working class voters. AP VoteCast shows that when Walz was elected Minnesota governor in 2022, he won young voters in the state. He also did well in Minnesotas union households, winning nearly 6 in 10 voters in that group. About half of Minnesota voters, 52%, had a favorable view of Walz, and about 4 in 10 had a negative one. And while Walz lost white voters without a college education in the state, he outperformed Democrats nationwide with this group. He also struggled among white men, a demographic Democrats have sought to win back from President Donald Trump, but did a little better among this group than Democrats nationwide. However, Walz lost among military veteran households in Minnesota in 2022, according to VoteCast. Tim Walz will need to introduce himself to America Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will need to introduce himself to the vast majority of Americans. An ABC News/Ipsos survey conducted before Walz was selected as Vice President Kamala Harris running mate, but after vetting began, showed that nearly 9 in 10 U.S. adults did not know enough to have an opinion about him. Among Americans with a view, opinions were split between positive and negative: 6% had a favorable view, and 7% had an unfavorable one. Walzs lack of a national profile as he joins Harris on the campaign trail extends to his own party. Nearly 9 in 10 Democrats also didnt know enough to have an opinion of Walz in the ABC News/Ipsos poll. One in 10 had a favorable view of him, and just 4% had a negative opinion. He was an unknown figure among most Democrats across the party: those older and younger were similarly likely to not know Walz, as well as white Democrats and non-white Democrats. Fellow Minnesotan Sen. Amy Klobuchar says Walz is just unendingly optimistic and joyous U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar says Walz is someone who is just unendingly optimistic and joyous, and that is very, very important right now in our politics. The fellow Minnesotan who served with Walz in Congress told The Associated Press hes blunt, but hes also positive in a way she believes will provide an upbeat message in contrast to the Trump-Vance Republican ticket. I always think of him in his plaid shirt because he was always making the point its One Minnesota, said Klobuchar, a Democrat. And I think thats a point youre going hear him talk about with our nation. She said his background as a hunter and someone who fishes just brings a different perspective to the White House. Several black and white SUVs have left the Governors residence in St. Paul The SUVs left amid cheers from residents lined up on the sidewalk. Harris running mate pick is good news for man who owns rights to HarrisWalz.com Jeremy Green Eche was in the middle of getting his toddler dressed the moment news broke that Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris had selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate. And he was amped. Eche was uniquely invested in Harris pick. He currently owns the rights to HarrisWalz.com, a site he bought in 2020 along with a slate of other Harris sites when the would-be vice president was in the midst of a primary campaign for president. Four years and one vice presidential pick later, Eche is willing to sell the slate of Harris websites, including the one featuring Walz, for $15,000. I was constantly refreshing four different news sites on my phone, he told The Associated Press on Tuesday. I was very excited. He said he almost immediately began getting calls from both journalists and friends I hadnt heard from in a while. This is not a new scenario for the 36-year-old trademark lawyer in Brooklyn, New York. Eche is a cyber squatter, someone who buys a domain with someone elses name or brand in it for very little money, hoping to sell it to that person or brand for a large profit in the subsequent months or years. In 2011, when it looked likely that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton would be the Democratic nominee in 2016, then Jeremy Peter Green he took his wifes last name purchased ClintonKaine.com. After the former secretary of state picked Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine, the squatter offered it to the campaign for a hefty return. They declined, so he sold it for $15,000 to a digital marketing company that turned out to be the Trump campaign. The website pushed anti-Clinton news with Paid for by Donald J. Trump for President, Inc emblazoned at the bottom. Eche supported Clinton in 2016 and supports Harris today. The prospect of something like that happening again doesnt give Eche pause, however. The Harris campaign has hundreds of millions of dollars, so if they dont buy their own domain, that is kind of on them, he said Monday. But he isnt convinced they will buy the domain. I dont want to be too confident that somebody will reach out, he said after Walz was selected. I would say theres a 75% chance that one of the campaigns, or a PAC, will buy it from me. Walz says hes all in In a Tuesday morning post on X, Walz said joining the ticket with Harris is the honor of a lifetime. His profile details on X are now Running to win this thing with @kamalaharris. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro on Walz Shapiro called Walz an exceptionally strong addition to the ticket wholl help Harris become the 47th president. Shapiro, who met with Harris on Sunday about the job, said he was grateful to talk about her vision for the role and the campaign ahead. As Ive said repeatedly over the past several weeks, the running mate decision was a deeply personal decision for the vice president and it was also a deeply personal decision for me. Pennsylvanians elected me to a four-year term as their governor, and my work here is far from finished there is a lot more stuff I want to get done for the good people of this commonwealth, Shapiro said in a statement. He said he considers Walz a good friend and pledged to travel the state over the next three months to help Democrats defeat former President Donald Trump and build a better future for our country. Vice President Kamala Harris has my enthusiastic support and I know that Governor Tim Walz is an exceptionally strong addition to the ticket who will help Kamala move our country forward, Shapiro said. At the Governors mansion, a Minnesota resident says why he likes Walz David Ivory, 46, stood outside the Governors mansion with his two children. Ivory found out Walz was selected after his wife texted him OMG from work. He and his kids immediately hopped on their bikes and rode to the Governors residence in St. Paul. Ivory and his family are longtime admirers of Walz for his liberal record and amiable political persona. Hes just down to earth. He gets it. He can talk to anybody, Ivory said. He doesnt seem like hes above anybody. He was a teacher. He understands kids, which is very important. Harris says her new running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has delivered for working families Its great to have him on the team, Harris said. Harris posted on X that she was proud to announce she asked Walz to join her on the 2024 ticket. Voter Coalition Pushes Issue-Based Outreach Strategy to Increase Registration, Shifting from Top of Ticket Politics State Voices launched a $3 million nationwide campaign Tuesday to encourage voters of color to vote based on the issues that affect their day-to-day lives, like grocery price spikes or growing rent and mortgage payments. Under the Vote for Something campaign, the coalition aims to register 800,000 voters, make more than 250 million voter contacts, and encourage 100,000 people to make a plan to vote on or ahead of the 2024 election for themselves and others. Theyve registered more than 400,000 voters so far. State Voices, like many voting rights advocates, hopes for messaging that transcends the top of the ticket a looming match between Vice President Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election. Whatever the issue is that matters to you, vote for something. Get out this November and bring a friend and a family member with you, said Mishara Davis, the groups director of issue and electoral organizing. The key has been reaching voters who may be tired of the political space altogether or who are eligible to vote but arent registered and therefore may not receive voting information especially in presidential swing states, Georgia, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, which are primary areas under the campaign. This comes as Harris, who is in Pennsylvania this week, has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, sources say. The pair will continue the campaign tour to Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Arizona and Nevada starting Wednesday. Environmental group cheers selection of Walz as the Democratic vice presidential candidate Manish Bapna, president and CEO of the NRDC Action Fund, the political arm of the Natural Resources Defense Council, called Harris and Walz the winning ticket on climate. The Harris-Walz administration will be ready, on day one, to build on the strongest climate action ever and lead by example in the global fight against the existential challenge of our time. Walz has made Minnesota a national climate leader, Bapna said. Under his leadership, the state committed to 100% clean energy by 2040, and Minnesota was the first Midwestern state to adopt Californias strict tailpipe emissions standards. Walz also signed a bill last year directing $240 million to replace lead service water lines statewide. The stakes in this election couldnt be higher nor the choice more clear. Trump would bow to billionaire oil and gas donors, slam climate progress into reverse and leave our kids to pay the price. Harris is a proven climate and justice leader with two decades of public service on the front lines of needed progress and change. Shes shown us what leadership looks like, and shes earned the chance to lead, Bapna said. The National LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund praises Walzs selection The National LGBTQ Action Fund expected a strategic and bold choice as a strong addition to the ticket as a Vice-Presidential candidate, Sayre E. Reece, vice president of the National LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund, said Tuesday in a statement. In Governor Walz we have gotten both. Reece continued: Governor Walz has been a steadfast ally and advocate for the LGBTQ community, including support for trans affirming care, bodily autonomy and reproductive freedom and gun control. As Governor, Walz signed a ban on so-called conversion therapy into law, ending the harmful and cruel practice that has cost LGBTQ people their dignity and their lives. Under Walzs leadership, Minnesota is both a trans sanctuary and immigration sanctuary state. The National LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund describes itself as lobbying for legislation and ballot initiatives that achieve justice for LGBTQ people. At Walzs residence in Minnesota A growing crowd of residents and news reporters gathered outside Walzs residence in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Tuesday morning. Black and white SUVs periodically pulled into the driveway as onlookers waited to catch a glimpse of Walz leaving the 20-room governors mansion near the Mississippi River. No immediate comment from Vance on Harris picking Walz as her running mate Boarding his campaign plane Tuesday morning in Cincinnati for a swing through battleground states this week, Ohio Sen. JD Vance did not answer shouted questions about Harris picking Walz as her running mate. On Tuesday, Vance was heading to Pennsylvania, where Harris planned to debut with her new running mate later in the day. Trump attacks Walz in a fundraising email Donald Trump sent a fundraising email calling Walz Dangerously Liberal and saying he would unleash HELL ON EARTH. Moments after Harris VP pick became public, the former president and Republican nominee said Walz would be the worst vice president in history, claiming the Minnesota governor would light TRILLIONS of dollars on fire and open U.S. borders to criminals. HES THAT BAD, the email says. The selection process that led Harris to pick Walz as her running mate A team of lawyers and political operatives led by former attorney general Eric Holder pored over documents and conducted interviews with potential vice presidential selections. And Harris herself met with her three finalists on Sunday. She mulled the decision over Monday with top aides at the vice presidents residence in Washington and finalized it Tuesday morning. Walz emerged as the choice. A Minnesota Democratic strategist praises Walzs ability to connect with voters Minnesota Democratic strategist Abu Amara says Walz will be a good surrogate for Harris across the upper Midwest, because he represented a rural U.S. House district but won statewide in a state with large metropolitan and suburban areas. Hes not trying to speak in poetry. He speaks in practicality, Amara said. Thats a level of accessibility for so many voters. He has the ability to connect with rural, suburban and urban voters, he said. Some Republicans are already reacting to the selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as Harris VP pick Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis called it the most left-wing ticket in American history and accused Walz of not doing enough to protect Minnesota during the 2020 protests over the killing of George Floyd. He said Walz sat by and let Minneapolis burn. Tropical Storm Debby continues to upend Harris travel plans this week The campaign had already pulled down a planned stop in Savannah, Georgia, because of the weather. But the Democratic presidential nominee will now no longer travel to Raleigh, North Carolina, either, according to the campaign. She was set to travel to Raleigh on Thursday. Harris is launching a tour of battleground states on Tuesday evening, starting in Philadelphia. Harris picks Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as running mate, AP sources say Vice President Kamala Harris picked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate on Tuesday. Thats according to three people who spoke to The Associated Press. In choosing Walz, shes turning to a Midwestern governor, military veteran and union supporter who helped enact an ambitious Democratic agenda for his state, including sweeping protections for abortion rights and generous aid to families. The people were not authorized to speak publicly about the choice and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity. Seung Min Kim, Zeke Miller and Colleen Long Sources say Harris has decided on a running mate Vice President Kamala Harris has decided on a running mate and an announcement is expected in the coming hours before the two appear together at a Philadelphia rally, according to three people familiar with her decision. In recent days, she has zeroed in on a trio of potential finalists: Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. It wasnt clear yet who she picked. The people were familiar with her plans but spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss a decision that had not been publicly announced. Harris campaign planned to make the announcement via video message before the rally, though the exact timing remained unclear, according to a person involved in the planning who spoke on the condition of anonymity to detail discussions occurring behind closed doors. Seung Min Kim, Zeke Miller and Colleen Long Harris formally secures the Democratic presidential nomination Vice President Kamala Harris formally secured the Democratic presidential nomination late Monday becoming the first woman of color to lead a major party ticket. Harris nomination became official after a five-day round of online balloting by Democratic National Convention delegates ended Monday night, with the party saying in a statement released just before midnight that 99% of delegates casting ballots had done so for Harris. It said it would next formally certify the vote before holding a celebratory roll call at the partys convention later this month in Chicago. Harris coronation as her partys standard-bearer caps a tumultuous and frenetic period for Democrats prompted by President Joe Bidens disastrous June debate performance. As soon as Biden abruptly ended his candidacy, Harris and her team worked rapidly to secure backing from the 1,976 party delegates needed to clinch the nomination in a formal roll call vote. She reached that marker at warp speed, with an Associated Press survey of delegates nationwide showing she locked down the necessary commitments a mere 32 hours after Bidens announcement. The Latest: Tropical Storm Debby churns across the US Southeast Tropical Storm Debby has moved into the U.S. Southeast with the threat of extended torrential downpours and flooding after raking Florida with heavy rain and high winds. The storm killed at least five people Monday and has caused flooding in historic Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina, and elsewhere on the Southeasts Atlantic Coast. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson told residents to expect a rough day Tuesday. Debby made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida on Monday as a Category 1 hurricane. The categorization is based on wind speeds, but meteorologists say its the storms rainfall capacity that makes it extremely dangerous. Heres the Latest: An American flag is nearly shredded from the winds from Tropical Storm Debby, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Tybee Island, Ga. (AP Photo/Stephen B. Morton) Debris covers the ground in Moncks Corner, S.C., from a possible tornado as Tropical Storm Debby settles over this region of South Carolina, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024 (Megan Fernandes/The Post And Courier via AP) People wade into the flood waters overcoming Gordon Street as rain continues to fall from Tropical Storm Debby, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Charleston, S.C. (Henry Taylor/The Post And Courier via AP) Ellie Combs, from Charleston, S.C., rides in a canoe down Ashley Ave in Charleston as Tropical Storm Debby approaches, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Mic Smith) A car sits in flood waters near Spruill Ave in North Charleston, S.C., as Tropical Storm Debby approaches, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Mic Smith) Trip Hamilton, from Charleston, S.C., canoes down Ashley Ave in Charleston as Tropical Storm Debby approaches, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Mic Smith) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, right, speaks to residents and members of the media Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Steinhatchee, Fla., about recovery efforts after Hurricane Debby made landfall in the Big Bend area on Monday. Looking on is Kevin Guthrie, Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. (AP Photo/Christopher OMeara) A surfer comes out of the water after riding the high waves created by Tropical Storm Debby near the Tybee pier, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Tybee Island, Ga. (AP Photo/Stephen B. Morton) Amy Tittle holds on to her hat while trying to photograph her son surfing in the high waves created by Tropical Storm Debby near the Tybee pier, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Tybee Island, Ga. (AP Photo/Stephen B. Morton) A person walks on a windy and rainy beach as Tropical Storm Debby approaches the area, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Isle of Palms, S.C. (AP Photo/Mic Smith) A person walks on a windy and rainy beach as Tropical Storm Debby approaches the area, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, on Isle of Palms, S.C. (AP Photo/Mic Smith) Jergen Wagner, from Charleston, S.C., braves the wind and rain on the Isle of Palms beach as Tropical Storm Debby approaches,Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Isle of Palms, S.C. (AP Photo/Mic Smith) Latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center The center of Tropical Storm Debby is about 10 miles (16 kilometers) southeast of Savannah, Georgia, and moving east-northeast at near 5 mph (8 kph), the National Hurricane Center said Tuesday in its 2 p.m. advisory. Maximum sustained winds are near 40 mph (65 kph) with higher gusts. Tropical-storm force winds of at least 39 mph (63 kph) extend outward over extend outward up to 205 miles (335 km) east of the center. The latest on Tropical Storm Debby Debbys center is expected to move off the Georgia coast Tuesday and then move back inland over South Carolina on Thursday, the hurricane center said. The main rainfall threat includes the eastern half of South Carolina and southeastern North Carolina through Friday. Heavy rains spill water over South Carolina dam but structure holds Flooding from Debby wasnt limited to coastal areas. Water started spilling over the top of a small dam near Walterboro, South Carolina, but it didnt crumble, Colleton County Fire-Rescue Assistant Chief David Greene said in a video briefing. An apartment complex in Walterboro did flood and a number of roads in the county were blocked either by standing water or fallen trees, but no major damage was reported, Greene said. Colleton County fire officials sent out a warning Tuesday about the McGrady Dam near Walterboro, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of Charleston. They said about 50 people might be affected if the dam was breached. To the south, the neighboring community of Green Pond reported 14 inches (36 centimeters) of rain since Debby first started to hit the area Monday, Greene said. In South Carolina, uncertainty but preparedness South Carolina residents arent sure how strong Debbys ultimate punch will be where they are, but theyre preparing for any scenario. Theres a lot of question marks, said David E. Lally, 83, who lives near the coast and stocked up with groceries and a 12-pack of Miller Lite. He worries Debbys forecast heavy rains could cause problems on the Waccamaw River and other streams. Dams breach, roads wash out in Bulloch County Crooked Hammock Brewery in North Myrtle Beach decided to close Tuesday afternoon as rain bore down and the region faced threats of flash flooding, tornadoes and storm surge. No one can pinpoint exactly what areas the flooding will occur in, and were unsure of how bad it will be. We just know it is inevitable and want to keep our team as safe as possible, marketing coordinator Georgena Dimitriadis wrote in an email. Florida keeps a wary eye on parts upstream Officials warned Tuesday that all the water expected to fall on Georgia and South Carolina from Tropical Storm Debby could cause serious flooding downstream in Florida for days or weeks to come. We are going to see more flooding in northern Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis said at a briefing in Steinhatchee, near where Debby made initial landfall as a Category 1 hurricane. Youre going to see the tributaries rise. Thats just inevitable. How much? Well see, he said. It may be that its not flooded today and it could be flooded tomorrow. The National Weather Service warned that parts of the St. Marys, Suwannee and Santa Fe Rivers are projected to reach major flood stage west of Jacksonville and north of Gainesville, with the potential to inundate roads and houses. Parts of southwest Florida already flooded, leading to 500 rescues from homes in Sarasota County. Officials said it may be two weeks before they can fully assess damage in parts of north-central Florida as they wait for rivers to crest. Savannah largely escapes major flooding so far In Savannah, Georgia, the steady, soaking rainfall eased, at least temporarily, by late morning Tuesday as the storms center reached the states coast. Significant flooding was reported in at least one neighborhood. A video posted to Facebook by Mayor Van Johnson showed people walking in water nearly to their waists in the Tremont Park section. The water is serious, Johnson said in the video. For those who felt this was just a rainstorm, thats not it. Elsewhere, streets that had flooded during downpours Monday evening were mostly clear. With many offices and businesses closed, residents jogged and walked their dogs. The forecast called for more rain, some of it heavy, in Savannah in the coming days as Debby crawls or even stalls offshore. The National Weather Service reported 6.68 inches (16.96 centimeters) of rainfall in Savannah on Monday. Thats more rain than Georgias oldest city saw in all of August last year. Latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center The center of Tropical Storm Debby is about 15 miles (24 kilometers) south of Savannah, Georgia, and moving east-northeast at near 6 mph (9 kph), the National Hurricane Center said Tuesday in its 11 a.m. advisory. Governor McMaster gives press conference on the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby Maximum sustained winds are near 40 mph (65 kph) with higher gusts. Tropical-storm force winds of at least 39 mph (63 kph) extend outward over 200 miles (330 kilometers) from the center. Debbys center is expected to move off the Georgia coast later Tuesday, then move back inland over South Carolina on Thursday, the center said. Charleston extends curfew and tells yahoos to stay off roads The peninsula that makes up much of the downtown and older, historic parts of Charleston, South Carolina, will remain closed Tuesday as Tropical Storm Debby spins nearby, Mayor William Cogswell said. Police have barricaded all eight roads into the peninsula and let only essential workers and emergency personnel in or out since 11 p.m. Monday. The barriers will remain in place until at least Wednesday morning. We especially dont need any yahoos driving through the water and causing damage to properties, Cogswell said. Attention now turns to Debby moving offshore, perhaps strengthening and sending stronger winds onshore, causing power outages and some tidal flooding Wednesday into Thursday. Georgia governor tells residents to stay vigilant At a news conference Tuesday at Georgias emergency management center in Atlanta, Gov. Brian Kemp urged residents in the storm area to remain vigilant and stay off roads. Do not let this storm lull you to sleep, he said. Kemp said that in the best case, the storm area will get another 4 or 5 inches (10 or 12.7 centimeters) of rain. But he warned that another model showed the storm stalling and moving back into Georgia, dumping as much as 9 additional inches (22.9 centimeters) of rain. Still, State Meteorologist Will Lanxton said the possibility of catastrophic flooding is much less likely. Debby brings flooding, tornadoes to South Carolina South Carolina is bracing for days of rain through Thursday from Tropical Storm Debby. It already spawned tornadoes and caused flooding Tuesday in areas along the states coast. The tornadoes toppled trees and damaged a few homes on Kiawah Island and Edisto Island between Savannah and Charleston. A Walmart, an Applebees and other businesses were damaged, and several vehicles flipped in Moncks Corner, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) inland from Charleston. Radar estimated more than 10 inches (25 centimeters) of rain fell between Hilton Head Island and Charleston overnight. There were local reports of flooding, including parts of downtown Charleston that often flood, but no widespread damage. Some forecasts indicate Debby could bring 10 to 15 inches (25 to 38 centimeters) of rain to rural areas of North and South Carolina that were devastated by floods in Hurricane Matthew in 2016 and Hurricane Florence in 2018. Each caused over $1 billion in damage and killed dozens. Slow-moving Tropical Storm Debby bringing torrential rains and flooding to southeastern US More than 155,000 customers lacked power in Florida and Georgia on Tuesday morning, down from a peak of more than 350,000, according to PowerOutage.us and Georgia Electric Membership Corp. Biden approves Georgia disaster declaration President Joe Biden approved an emergency declaration for much of Georgia, making disaster assistance available for the effects of Hurricane Debby, the Federal Emergency Management Agency said Tuesday. The declaration authorizes FEMA to mobilize equipment and other resources to protect lives, property and public health, including coordinating evacuations and shelters. Charlestons geography creates a special threat Much of South Carolinas historic Charleston peninsula lies on low marshland filled in over the years by dirt and debris. With the Ashley and Cooper rivers on either side, the city of about 155,000 is hard to drain, especially during high tide or when the winds blow onshore from the Atlantic Ocean. Rising sea levels have made it harder, with water covering streets more than twice a month now even without a storm like Debby looming. The rivers and deep port have been critical to Charleston since its founding in 1670. The citys emergency plan includes sandbags for residents, opening parking garages so residents can park their cars above floodwaters, and an online mapping system that shows which roads are closed by flooding. Debby still getting energy from ocean water, expert says Debby has weakened over land because tropical cyclones derive their energy from warm water, but part of the circulation was still interacting Tuesday with water over the Atlantic, said Richard Pasch, a senior hurricane specialist with the National Hurricane Center. The storms center is expected to move out over the water off the Georgia and South Carolina coast, then move back inland, so it could restrengthen, but its not clear how much, he said. Tropical storm warnings were posted from northeastern Florida up into North Carolina, and very heavy rain is expected, leading to catastrophic flooding across parts of southeastern Georgia, the eastern half of South Carolina and southeastern North Carolina through Friday, he said. Tropical cyclones always produce heavy rain, but normally as theyre moving, you know, it doesnt accumulate that much in one place, he said. But when they move very slowly, thats the worst situation. Charleston ready with sandbags, parking garages Debbys center was over southeastern Georgia early Tuesday with maximum sustained winds near 45 mph (75 kph), and it was moving northeast near 7 mph (11 kph). The center is expected to move off Georgias coast later Tuesday. Some strengthening is forecast on Wednesday and Thursday as Debby drifts offshore, before it moves inland over South Carolina on Thursday. Emergency services respond to I-95 accident near Hardeeville The emergency plan in the city of Charleston, South Carolina, includes sandbags for residents, opening parking garages so residents can park their cars above floodwaters, and an online mapping system that shows which roads are closed by flooding. Hundreds rescued from flooded homes in Sarasota, Florida, area About 500 people were rescued from flooded homes in Sarasota, Florida, a beach city popular with tourists, the Sarasota Police Department said Monday in a social media post. Essentially weve had twice the amount of the rain that was predicted for us to have, Sarasota County Fire Chief David Rathbun said in a social media update. Just north of Sarasota, officials in Manatee County said in a news release that 186 people were rescued from flood waters. We are facing an unprecedented weather event with Hurricane Debby, said Jodie Fiske, Manatee Countys public safety director. The safety of our residents is our top priority, and we are doing everything in our power to respond effectively to this crisis. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. HAVANA, Ill. (WMBD) The Lawford Theatre partially collapsed Monday evening, resulting in a reported gas leak inside the building, according to the Havana Police Department. Crews with area emergency responders are currently on the scene of the collapse at the performing arts theater located at 225 West Main Street in Havana, Illinois. Main Street between Orange and Plum streets is shut down as of around 9 a.m. Tuesday, and parking is unavailable. According to a post on Facebook from the police department, structural engineers are examining affected buildings nearby. As of Monday, all businesses and sidewalks on the North Side of Main Street will remain open, which allows entrance into the Wolters Drug Store, Ace Hardware and Tangles. Several businesses will be closed tomorrow including Havana City Hall, Perbix and Morgan Law Office and the Neverending Story Bookstore, police said. Residents are advised to avoid the area. If you wish to visit a specific business, then call them directly. Do not call the police. This map displays which sidewalks are currently open or closed due to the theatre collapse. Map courtesy of the Havana Police Department. Havana building collapse and gas leak close street There were no further details regarding what caused the building to collapse or the gas leak. The police department said there was no further information to provide at this time. Lawford Theatre. Photo from Austin Fortney. Lawford Theatre. Photo from Austin Fortney. Lawford Theatre. Photo from Austin Fortney. This story will be updated. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. A Zimbabwe national has been found guilty of laundering over $1 million through romance fraud schemes. Sherlyn Sims, also known as Sherlyn Dzinzi, was found guilty after a five-day trial of conspiring to launder and laundering over $1.2 million from various romance fraud schemes and business email compromise methods. The jurys decision concluded that Sims funneled money from these computer-enabled crimes into bank accounts she controlled, and subsequently transferred, withdrew, and spent the funds. The fraud schemes that Sims perpetrated in this case have become an epidemic in this country, said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. Our vulnerable elderly population are often targeted in these crimes, resulting in significant financial loss and unimaginable emotional suffering. The jurys verdict has ended Simss attempts to evade culpability for the role that she played in carrying out these schemes. FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Keri Farley emphasized the broader impact of such crimes. This case serves as a reminder of the sophisticated methods employed by criminals and the need for vigilance in the digital age. The consequences of this type of fraud scheme are far-reaching, affecting not only people here in Georgia but also around the world, Farley said. Sims, along with her co-defendants, set up sham businesses including Grace Trading, LLC, which was registered in Georgia. These businesses lacked legitimate earnings, physical premises, and did not pay wages to employees. Sims and her associates opened business bank accounts at institutions like J.P. Morgan Chase Bank and Bank of America, where fraud victims deposited their money. Two days after Grace Tradings registration, approximately $200,000 was deposited into its accounts by fraud victims. Sims swiftly wired these funds to China and other countries, withdrew cash, and spent the remaining money. RELATED STORIES: Over seven months, more than $1.2 million from romance scams and business email compromise schemes flowed into these accounts. One notable scam involved a victim who sent an earnest money deposit for a new home to Grace Tradings account. Even after banks closed these accounts, Sims reopened new ones in the sham businesses names and even secured a fraudulent COVID loan from the Small Business Administration. Multiple victims testified at the trial, detailing how they were convinced they were in romantic relationships with men they met online, only to be defrauded. One victim sent nearly $100,000 to Simss account after being misled into believing her boyfriend was detained by customs and needed the money for release. Sims, 33, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, will be sentenced in November. Her co-defendant, Bright Eigbedion, 36, of Kearns, Utah, who pleaded guilty, will be sentenced later this month. Presley Ihimekpen, 37, of Duluth, Georgia, was sentenced earlier to five years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release and was ordered to pay restitution to the victims. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case. RELATED NEWS: Google (GOOG, GOOGL) lost a landmark antitrust trial this week, and now it has to defend itself against another perilous antitrust challenge that could inflict more damage. Starting in September, the tech giant will square off against federal prosecutors and a group of states claiming that Google abused its dominance of search advertising technology that is used to sell, buy, and broker advertising space online. That trial, scheduled to take place inside a federal courtroom in Norfolk, Va., starts roughly one month after a federal judge in Washington D.C., found that Googles search and ad businesses violated antitrust law. Google intends to appeal that decision, which was handed down Monday. Juggling simultaneous defenses "will definitely create a strain on its resources, productivity, and most importantly, attention at the most senior levels," said David Olson, associate professor at Boston College Law School. There could be parallels, Olson said, to what happened two decades ago to Microsoft (MSFT) after the US alleged that tech giant boxed out rivals by making its browser the default on its dominant Windows operating system. That high-profile case in the 1990s resulted in a 2001 settlement that opened the door to broader competition in the internet browser software market. Former Microsoft chairman Bill Gates in 2001. (Jeff Christensen/WireImage) (Jeff Christensen via Getty Images) Microsoft is widely considered to have lost its edge following protracted litigation with the DOJ, according to Olson, diverting attention from its core work and causing it to take a more risk-averse approach. Its 2001 settlement which required Microsoft to design its Windows operating system to interoperate with competing browsers did create an opportunity for Google, then a startup formed by Stanford students Sergey Brin and Larry Page, to begin its period of meteoric growth in the 2000s. The two cases targeting Google have the potential to inflict major damage to an empire amassed over the last two decades. Google founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page in 2004. (JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP via Getty Images) (JOHN MACDOUGALL via Getty Images) In the case decided this week, the government was able to successfully argue that Google broke the law as it became the dominant way most people searched for information on the web, abusing its power through contracts that secured its search engine as the default on computers and mobile devices. The second case that begins next month began with a lawsuit filed in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia by the Justice Department and eight states in December 2020, during former President Trumps administration. Prosecutors allege that since at least 2015 Google has thwarted meaningful competition and deterred innovation through its ownership of the entities and software that power the online advertising technology market. Story continues Google owns most of the technology to buy, sell, and serve advertisements online. Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai departs federal court last October after testifying in an antitrust case against his company. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images) (Drew Angerer via Getty Images) Advertisers and publishers rely on Googles suite of technologies including its publisher ad server, DFT, also known as DoubleClick or GAM, and its ad exchange, ADX to identify available opportunities for online ad placements and negotiate prices to buy and sell ads. Googles share of the US and global advertising markets when measured either by revenue or impressions exceeded 90% for "many years," according to the complaint. The government prosecutors accused Google of siphoning off $0.35 of each advertising dollar that flowed through its ad tech tools. The DOJ in its complaint even likened Googles market position to a scenario where major banks also control the New York Stock Exchange. "Because Google has such a powerful hand in each aspect of the ad tech industry, it alone has the power to use and deploy hidden levers to manipulate the overall system to its advantage," the complaint stated. To stop Google's allegedly illegal conduct, the DOJ and states have asked a judge to force Google to divest certain ad tech entities. At a minimum, the prosecutors want Google to divest its Ad Manager Suite, which would include its publisher ad server, DFT, and its ad exchange, ADX. Alexis Keenan is a legal reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow Alexis on X @alexiskweed. Click here for the latest technology news that will impact the stock market Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance When I hear the Tacoma School Districts assurances that eliminate all Career Guidance Specialists across the district will not have a negative impact on students, Im struck by a feeling of deja vu. Six years ago, as I worked closely with high school students, I realized that they received little to no post-high school guidance. Many of these students missed application deadlines, limited themselves by applying to just one school, and rolled the dice with admissions and financial aid packages. I knew we could solve this problem to better support our students and strengthen our communities. To fill this education gap, I worked with our administration to create a Career Guidance Specialist position at three of our specialty high schools to fill this education gap. That year, we helped as many students as we could, but by the end of the 2017-18 school year, all seven Career Guidance Specialists across the district were notified that they would either be laid off or reassigned. Except they werent. Turns out, the work we did was, and still is, very much needed. Our highly specialized skill set was best utilized supporting students with finding their path beyond high school. Four of us continued to guide students at the districts largest high schools, while three of us (myself included) were reassigned to other roles. This spring, central administrators once again made the harmful decision to eliminate career guidance specialists. Students packed school board meetings to protest the change. Mount Tahoma graduate Angel Roman shared his story: As a first generation student coming from immigrant parents, we knew little about the steps to pursue higher education. Not everyone has a mentor to guide them through opportunities outside of high school, but my career counselor, Ms. Philips, is the reason Im in a private university today. She was there every step of the way with me, helping with my college applications, FAFSA, scholarships and internships.with her help Im fortunate to not have paid [anything] so far for college. This would have never been the case if Ms. Philips was not there. Its hard to imagine the school without her.this will strip away a lot of already limited opportunities for our students. This is just one of many compelling student success stories told at the last few board meetings, representing the experiences of thousands of our graduates. Why are these cuts happening? We are told, The budget must be balanced. We have watched district-level administrators receive 31-55% raises between 2018 and 2023, while cutting student services and programs to restore the financial health of the district. Superintendent Garcia assured the school board at their May 23 meeting that as things change for us, we will continue to try to live into your guiding principles moving forward. As I write, our district cabinet consisting of eight of the highest-paid administrators in the region, has recently returned from an overnight retreat in the mountains, at the Suncadia resort in Central Washington. Thousands of dollars have been spent on this full-service luxury getaway so our district leaders can contemplate the challenges of serving our students in a time of fiscal austerity. Who will support our students when the Career Centers are gone? Students come to them for help with everything from navigating the process of joining the pipe fitters union to comparing financial aid offers. They will no longer have a centralized place to get this information or a professional educator to guide them through these often complicated processes. This work will be distributed among various other staff members, who are grossly overworked as it is. In short, no one is ready for this and our kids will be largely on their own. Our districts motto is Every Student Every Day. We should hold our leaders accountable for honoring that commitment by restoring this life-changing resource now, before our students fall through the cracks. Jennifer Boutell is a Career and Technical Education teacher. She is a parent of two Tacoma Public Schools graduates and currently serves as secretary on the Tacoma Education Association executive board. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) As summer break comes to a close and students prepare to go back to school, state leaders gathered Tuesday morning to launch the Attendance Matters RI campaign for the upcoming school year. The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) met at the State House to present absenteeism data from the 2023-2024 school year. BACKGROUND: RI launches new campaign to address absenteeism in schools Gov. Dan McKee was pleased to see the significant progress made over the previous school year and said he is incredibly proud of the efforts to improve student attendance. We want Rhode Island youth to be successful, but that means they need a strong foundation, with a maximum amount of learning time, McKee said. This year, R.I. saw 244,375 fewer absences than the previous school year, which RIDE Commissioner Angelica Infante-Green said totals over 1.3 million more learning hours. Looking at just attendance rates doesnt tell the whole story, Infante-Green stressed. If students are not in the classroom, they cannot learn. State leaders initiated Attendance Matters RI last November as a response to record-high levels of chronic absenteeism in public schools. RIDE defines chronic absenteeism as the percentage of students who miss two days per month during the school year. Although missing two days of school per month may not seem like much, McKee said that percentage is crucial for a student and equates to a 10% reduction in learning time. If your child is chronically absent for more than one school year, that gap just keeps widening, he explained. Data showed that chronically absent students perform 20% lower than their peers. RELATED: New bill seeks to curb chronic absenteeism statewide This years data indicated that approximately 6,000 fewer students were chronically absent compared to the previous year, meaning chronic absenteeism declined by 4.2% during the Attendance Matters campaign and by 10% over the last two years. As a state, we can invest in the most rigorous, standards-based curriculum, build state-of-the-art schools, and have the greatest teachers in America but if our students do not show up, they will not succeed and we will not succeed, House Education Chair Rep. Joseph M. McNamara said. New information presented during the 2024 campaign kickoff also revealed that elementary-aged students saw the largest improvement, with a 5.1% decrease in chronic absences, followed by high school students with a 3.1% decrease, and middle school students with a 3.3% decrease. While these numbers show significant progress in Rhode Island schools, officials acknowledged that there is much more to be done. In every home, every day, learning matters, McKee said. MORE: Attendance campaign has contributed to 22% fewer absences than last year Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. At least 11 Palestinians killed in Israeli operations in West Bank A view of destroyed vehicles after Palestinians clashed with Israeli settlers who raided the Joseph's tomb in Nablus. Nasser Ishtayeh/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa At least 11 Palestinians were killed during Israeli military operations in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday, the Palestinian Health Ministry said. Four people, including a 14-year-old and two 19-year-olds, were killed in Aqaba, the Health Ministry in Ramallah said, with seven other people injured. The Israeli army has not commented on this incident. But the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that two separate airstrikes had been conducted in the area of Jenin. It said that "armed terrorist cells" were hit. At least five people were killed in the Jenin air attacks, according to the Health Ministry in Ramallah. According to the ministry, two Palestinians were also killed and three seriously injured in a further incident near Jenin. Jenin is considered a stronghold of militant Palestinians. The situation in the West Bank has significantly deteriorated since the onset of the Gaza conflict following the Hamas attack in Israel on October 7 of last year. Since then, over 580 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli military operations, confrontations, or their own attacks, according to the Health Ministry in the West Bank. Additionally, violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians has escalated during this period. Israel captured and occupied the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem during the Six-Day War in 1967. Although Israel withdrew from the Gaza Strip in 2005, it continues to control the land, air, and maritime borders. Palestinians claim these areas for the establishment of their own state. BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) Five people from Connecticut were among the nine people who died when an SUV went out of control on a South Florida road, hit a guardrail and went upside down into a canal, authorities said. The 2023 Ford Explorer carrying 10 people was traveling south on Hatton Highway near the farming community of Belle Glade at about 7:30 p.m. Monday, the Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office said. Driver Pamela Wiggins, who would have turned 57 on Tuesday, failed to negotiate the turn and went off the road, the sheriffs office said. The overloaded SUV hit a guardrail before flipping into the canal, which runs parallel to the road. Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Capt. Tom Reyes told reporters that the SUV was upside down and partially underwater when crews arrived. $52K in cash thrown out of BMW during police chase on I-395 in Plainfield Four people were pronounced dead at the scene, while five died at the hospital. In addition to Wiggins, the dead were identified as Leiana Alyse Hall, 30; Anyia Monique Lee Tucker, 21; Michael Anthony Hall Jr., 14; Imani Andre Ajani Hall, 8; Kamdien Edwards, 5; Yasire Smith, 5; Ziaire Mack, 3; and Naleia Tucker, 1. A 26-year-old male passenger was rescued and was said to be in serious condition. Anntianette Edwards of Bridgeport said that her only child, Kamdien, was killed in the crash along with eight of his cousins and other relatives. She told News 8 that five of the victims were from Connecticut. The other four were from Virginia and Jamaica. Several victims from Bridgeport were related to a person who works as a school custodian there. Superintendent Carmela Levy-David released a statement extending the districts sympathies to the worker, whom it did not identify. Together, as a community, we stand with our colleague, offering our prayers, support and love, Levy-David said. Edwards said her loved ones had been in Florida for a family birthday party and were on their way to the airport for a flight back to Connecticut. New Haven police trying to ID who died in Monday night crash I knew something was wrong, called the airplane, they said they didnt get on their flight, she said. Its like a bad dream. Edwards said Kamdien was just about to enter kindergarten. He was cheerful, funny, not scared of nothing. A daredevil. He was just a happy baby; we gave him everything he wanted, she said. Family of the nine victims have set up an online fundraiser as they ask for donations to help cover the cost of the funerals. As of Wednesday morning, it raised over $16,000. My family has been through a lot, and I just need everyone to just pray, said Antoine Wright, a cousin of the victims. My family is going to need a lot of strength and prayer and support in this situation. According to Ford dealership websites, 2023 Explorers have a maximum capacity of seven. The crash report said none of the occupants were wearing seat belts or using child restraints. Ive been with the department for 20 years, and this is one of the most difficult scenes Ive been on, Reyes said. Belle Glade is just south of Lake Okeechobee and about 45 miles west of West Palm Beach. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. At least 24 killed in hotel fire in Bangladesh as tensions remain high amid a power vacuum Bystanders at Dhaka's Japrabari police station on Tuesday inspect the aftermath of mass protests in the capital and across Bangladesh that ended 15 years of rule by the country's unpopular leader, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Photo by Monirul Alam/EPA-EFE Aug. 6 (UPI) -- At least 24 people were killed in eastern Bangladesh after anti-government protesters set fire to a hotel owned by a senior figure in the Awami League of ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, hours after she was forced from office and fled the country, authorities said. Officials of the Fire Service and Civil Defense department, which battled the blaze at the Zabeer International Hotel in Jashore 110 miles southwest of Dhaka for more than 12 hours overnight Monday, said a mob blocked firefighters from beginning operations for a considerable period. Khulna Fire Service deputy director Mamun Mahmud said the bodies of those killed were found lying on different floors. Most had suffocated. The hotel is owned by owned by Shahin Chakladar, general secretary of the local branch of the Awami League. The deaths were in addition to at least 135 people killed Monday in clashes in Dhaka between security forces and protesters demanding Hasina's resignation amid widespread rioting, attacks on police stations, arson and property destruction that continued into the night, bringing the total number of people killed since the protests started a month ago to more than 400. President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved parliament Tuesday as the Bangladeshi military, which has taken control of the country pending the formation of an interim government ahead of elections, held talks with student leaders of the protests. All protesters being held in detention would be released, Shahabuddin said, along with the jailed leader of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party, Begum Khaleda Zia. However, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement said Tuesday it would not accept a military-led administration and instead called for Nobel Peace Laureate Muhammad Yunus to lead the interim government. Student leader Nahid Islam said the group had already reached out to Yunus, known as "banker to the poor" for his championing of microcredit, and that he had accepted their invitation in light of the situation facing the country. "We will not accept any other government except the government proposed by the students and people. We will not accept any military government, military-backed government or any B-team government formed with the associates of the fascists," said the student leaders in a video message in which they warned of further protests unless parliament was dissolved by the end of the day. However, Islam said his movement did not support the mayhem and violence. "We strongly condemn the arson [and] communal violence taking place in various parts of the country. We need to be prepared to prevent people from hijacking the movement," said Islam. Yunus was expected to return to Bangladesh from abroad "as soon as possible." The businessman, also a recipient of the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal, and chancellor of Scotland's Caledonian University until 2018, was convicted in January of violating labor laws in a case widely dismissed internationally as politically motivated. Internationally there were calls for calm and for the restoration of democratic rule to be the top priority, as well as condemnation of Bangladesh's military over the levels of force used in the crackdown on the protests prior to Monday when Hasina quit. "The United States stands with the people of Bangladesh. We urge all parties to refrain from further violence. Too many lives have been lost over the course of the past several weeks, and we urge calm and restraint in the days ahead," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said at a press briefing. "We welcome the announcement of an interim government and urge any transition be conducted in accordance with Bangladesh's laws. We want to see the Bangladeshi people choose their own government, and that's what we'll be looking for in the days and weeks ahead." U.S. Senate majority leader Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said it was critical to "establish a balanced interim government that respects the rights of all and sets up democratic elections swiftly." "PM Hasina's violent reaction to legitimate protests made her continued rule untenable. I applaud the brave protesters and demand justice for those killed," he wrote in a post on X. Schumer's calls for accountability were echoed by British Foreign Secretary David Lammy who called for a full U.N. investigation into the killings. At least 3 key contests will be decided in the Aug. 20 primary. Here's what you need to know. The Aug. 20 primary election will offer voters far more than just an opportunity to pick their favorite party standard-bearers or whittle down crowded fields of candidates. At least three important contests, each with only two candidates, will be flat-out decided in the primary: Leon County property appraiser and Leon County School Board Districts 2 and 4. Other races with more contenders could go to runoffs in the Nov. 5 general election, including Tallahassee City Commission Seats 1 and 2. In those contests, one the candidates must get more than 50% of the vote to win outright and avoid a runoff. A lot of voters think that primary elections are just for partisan-affiliated voters Dems and Reps to help choose the partisan nominee for the general election, said Supervisor of Elections Mark Earley. It is that, but thats only part of the answer there for a primary election. Leon County Supervisor of Elections Mark Earley describes some of the precautions taken to prepare for the upcoming 2020 election. A number of races, including City Commission, School Board and County judge Seat 4, are nonpartisan and open to voters of any or no party. Quite a few of those races will be decided in the primary, Earley said. Every voter in Leon County will have a ballot available if they take advantage of it. We really recommend that you do. Democracy depends on your voice being heard. CANDIDATE FORUM REPLAYS (Click on the links on this online story or watch the full forums on our YouTube Page) Tallahassee voters guide Tallahassee Democrat, WFSU, League of Women Voters hold local candidate forums for 2024 primary. Here's how to watch. The ultimate Leon County, Tallahassee voter's guide to the 2024 primary election. Study up to vote with confidence Missed our voters guide to the Tallahassee primary? Subscribers can find the e-edition here Early voting dates, times, places Early voting runs Saturday, Aug. 10, through Sunday, Aug. 18, at 10 locations in Leon County. The hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at all sites except the Leon County Courthouse, which has hours of 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Leon County voters can cast ballots at any of the sites regardless of their precinct. Citizens of Leon County cast their ballots during the first day of early voting at the Leon County Courthouse on Saturday, Aug. 13, 2022. Dr. B.L. Perry Branch Library, 2817 S. Adams St Eastside Branch Library, 1583 Pedrick Road FAMU Student Union, 1628 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. FSU Student Union, 75 N. Woodward Ave. Fort Braden Community Center, 16387 Blountstown Highway Leon County Elections Center, 2990-1 Apalachee Parkway Lake Jackson Community Center, 3840 N. Monroe St. Leon County Courthouse, 301 S. Monroe St. Northeast Branch Library, 5513 Thomasville Road Woodville Community Center, 8000 Old Woodville Road Everything you need to know about Vote-by-Mail Voters can request Vote-By-Mail ballots by visiting LeonVotes.gov and clicking on "Vote-by-Mail," calling the Supervisor of Elections Office at 850-606-VOTE (8683) or visiting the elections office in person at 2990-1 Apalachee Parkway. Voters have until 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8 to request that a ballot be mailed to them. If you miss that deadline, you can still pick up a Vote-by-Mail ballot through Election Day. But because of changes in state law, starting Aug. 10, voters who want to pick up a Vote-by-Mail ballot must complete a form declaring why they can't vote in person. Vote-by-Mail ballots come with instructions, which voters are urged to follow. Vote-by-Mail ballots must be in the hands of the Supervisor of Elections Office by 7 p.m. on Election Day, Aug. 20, for them to count. The U.S. Postal Service recommends that people mail their Vote-by-Mail ballots back to the Supervisor of Elections at least one week before Election Day. New this year: the elections office is covering the cost of postage for the return envelopes, which means voters don't have to worry about stamps. Voters can also drop Vote-by-Mail ballots off at drop boxes (now known as Secure Ballot Intake Stations) during voting hours at any of the early voting locations or the elections office on Apalachee Parkway. Election Day voting and ID requirements Polls are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, Aug. 20. Voters can find their voting location on their Voter Information Card or by visiting LeonVotes.gov or calling the elections office at 850-606-VOTE (8683). Voters must present a current physical address and a valid photo ID when voting in person. The ID must come from the following list: Florida driver's license, Florida identification card, U.S. passport, debit or credit card, military ID, student ID, retirement center ID, neighborhood association ID, public assistance ID, U.S. veteran health ID, concealed weapon/firearm license, employee ID issued by local, state or federal government agency. Voters who don't bring ID can still vote with a provisional ballot. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: What you need to know to vote in Leon County's Aug. 20 primary election At least 99 people on terrorist watchlist have entered U.S. illegally under Biden-Harris administration Migrants who crossed the Rio Grande and entered the U.S. from Mexico are lined up for processing by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Sept. 23, 2023, in Eagle Pass, Texas. A new report from the House Judiciary said at least 99 people on terrorist watch list entered U.S. illegally and were released into American communities. | Eric Gay Under the Biden-Harris Administration, the Department of Homeland Security has released at least 99 people on the terrorist watchlist who entered the country illegally into American communities. A new report from the U.S. House Judiciary Committee said there are also at least 34 other people on the watchlist who are in DHS custody and are not yet removed from the country. Those on the terrorist watchlist trying to enter the country illegally came from 36 different countries, including Afghanistan, Iraq, Turkey, Pakistan and Yemen. At least 27 migrants on the terrorist watchlist who came through the southwest border were granted bond by immigration judges, the report said. At least four others were granted asylum. The report referred back to an arrest of eight Tajikistan nationals made by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in June. Three of the eight people were released into the country after using the CBP One phone application to schedule an appointment at a port of entry. Four of them were encountered by Border Patrol while crossing the border and the others came to a port of entry without an appointment, said the report. ICE officials have revealed to the Committee that officers encounter members and affiliates of terrorist organizations in their areas of responsibility, with one senior ICE official admitting that the Biden-Harris border crisis has made it more difficult for officers to arrest national security threats in the United States, said the report. If a national security threat recently crossed the border, ICE finds it very difficult to locate the illegal alien in the United States, given the aliens lack of a digital footprint in the country. Migrants on the terrorist watchlist crossing into U.S. The report said during the fiscal year 2022, Border Patrol encountered at least 98 people on the terrorist list at the border 83 more than during fiscal year 2021 and is nearly nine times the number encountered during fiscal years 2017 through 2020 combined. During the Biden-Harris administration, Border Patrol agents have had more than 3,000 percentage points more encounters with migrants on the terrorist watchlist than under the Trump-Pence Administration. That does not include the untold numbers of potential terrorists that evaded Border Patrol to enter the United States as part of nearly 2 million gotaways since the beginning of the Biden-Harris Administration, said the report. The report cited testimony from FBI director Christopher Wray delivered before the committee in July. Director Wray testified that fake documents compound the difficulties in vetting national security threats at the border, as illegal aliens who use fraudulent documents to enter the country cannot be connected to biometric data of potential terrorists, said the report. The report pointed toward a couple of specific cases. One was regarding Mohammad Kharwin on the terrorist watchlist for apparent membership in Hezbe-e-Islami, a political and paramilitary organization that the U.S. has designated a terrorist organization. Kharwin entered the country illegally and was released by ICE after posting bond. He was rearrested after media reports. The report said the case with Kharwin shows that judges who hear immigration cases are ill-equipped to handle national security-related cases. These judges often are unable to access classified information. When ICE officials argued in court for Kharwin to remain in custody, the report said they did not share information about his apparent ties to the terrorist group. Instead, ICE attorneys argued that he should be detained without bond because he was a flight risk, but they did not say he was a national security risk. Congress inaction on the border The report concludes by recommending the Senate pass H.R. 2, a Republican-backed bill. Democrats in the Senate have indicated they would not be open to passing H.R. 2. The Secure the Border Act or, H.R. 2, would deploy more Border Patrol agents and restart construction on the border wall. It would also require transparency from the Department of Homeland Security about illegal crossings, end catch and release, and create stricter requirements for asylum. Speaking on the Senate floor, Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called H.R. 2 a very partisan bill and said the Senate negotiated bill with input from Democrats and Republicans was a serious attempt at border reform. It was a $118 billion package that included foreign aid to Ukraine, Israel, the Indo-Pacific as well as humanitarian aid to people in Gaza and the West Bank. Under the bill, asylum cases would be heard by the Department of Homeland Security rather than immigration judges. It would change the standard for asylum seekers and allow for asylum claims to be rejected based on a disqualifying criminal history. It would increase the number of detention beds to 50,000 and also create 50,000 new visas a year for five years. At the time, House Speaker Mike Johnson said the Senate bill would be dead on arrival. Utahs House delegation opposed the bill as well as Sen. Mike Lee. Lee expressed concern the bill would codify the administrations catch and release policy into law and would fail to be effective at securing the border. At the time, Utah Rep. John Curtis said he thought the Senate should consider H.R. 2 given the reaction to the bipartisan deal. With Congress unable to pass a border deal, the latest policy development came from a Biden administrative plan. People without legal status married to U.S. citizens who have lived in the country for at least 10 years can apply for citizenship. This policy was praised by Democrats for keeping families together and improving the economy. Sen. Catherine Masto of Nevada wrote an opinion article for Univision saying, These are critical steps that would help our economy, support businesses across the U.S., and allow hundreds of thousands of people who call this country home to breathe easier. Republicans said the policy could pose a national security threat and were critical of President Joe Biden for bypassing Congress. The President may think our homeland security is some kind of game that he can try to use for political points, but Americans know this amnesty plan will only incentivize more illegal immigration and endanger Americans, said Johnson in a social media post. Lebanon's acting Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib on Tuesday said he hopes that a retaliatory strike by Iran and its allies for the killing of two major Israeli opponents can still be prevented. "We hope that there will be no retaliation," said Bou Habib during a visit to Cairo. "If there has to be one, it should not be a collective or strong response that would lead to a major war." Bou Habib said his government was trying to prevent Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah militia from dramatically escalating tensions. But Bou Habib's ability to restrain Hezbollah and Iran is limited. Lebanon has been in deep dysfunction for years and without a president since late 2022. The government is only in office in a caretaker capacity as the country's political elite continues to quarrel. The Hezbollah militia has huge influence on politics and the daily lives of the Lebanese population, acting like a state within a state. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) The way he puts it, Ron Carter had some time to get unlost. It was January 1970 and the jazz bassist was trying to find his way to Dix Hills, New York, just outside Manhattan, for a recording session with Alice Coltrane, pianist and wife of saxophonist John Coltrane. I dont do a lot of driving outside Manhattan, so I got lost trying to find it, Carter said from his home in New York. I had some time to get unlost. Carter did finally find Coltranes home, the result being Ptah, the El Daoud. She welcomed me with open arms and said Lets get this party started, he said. American jazz musician and composer Miles Davis (1926-1991) performing live on stage with pianist Herbie Hancock, bassist Ron Carter and saxophonist Wayne Shorter at the Newport Jazz Festival, Newport, Rhode Island, 2nd July 1967. (Photo by David Redfern/Redferns) Carter has countless stories like this, remembering decades of backing up some of the greatest artists in jazz on over 2,000 albums, performing with luminaries such as Miles Davis, Wes Montgomery, Cannonball Adderley, Roberta Flack and many others. On Saturday, the bassist was inducted into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, marking a celebration of over 60 years as a performing musician. Although he grew up in Detroit, Carter has strong ties to Alabama, starting with his mother, Willie, who was born in Lee County and grew up around Birmingham. However, he never had a chance to see his mothers home as a child. I got no further south than Indiana, where my father grew up, Carter said. In the last few years, however, hes learned more about his connections to the state. Theres a person who Ive been working with whos a genealogist, he said. I found out some interesting things about my background. NAPOLI, ITALY 2016/07/12: Pat Metheny & Ron Carter during the concert at Arena Flegrea in Naples. (Photo by Marco Cantile/LightRocket via Getty Images) Carter also maintained a connection to Alabama through his friendship with Cleve Eaton, a bassist who played with everyone from Ramsey Lewis to Count Basie. He was just a great player, he said. At 87 years old, Carter still maintains a busy schedule, working with his own big band, trio, quartet and duo. For him, the work is a continued effort in making new musical discoveries. Every night, I get a chance to stumble on an idea that I wouldnt have stumbled on before, he said. With a body of work as long as his, Carter maintains a humbleness about his longevity in music. Ive never gone into a gig thinking I shouldnt be there, he said. I try to do the best I can and make them miss me if Im not there tomorrow. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. A.A. Hammersmith President Doug Weatherbee, left, and his father, Harold Weatherbee, show off some of the insurance company's history during a Massillon-West Stark Chamber of Commerce business after hours event. Hammersmith is celebrating its 150-year anniversary this summer. MASSILLON One of the oldest businesses in the city is celebrating a major milestone. A.A. Hammersmith Insurance is in its 150th year. Doug Weatherbee, president of Hammersmith for the past 16 years, said the office was opened in 1874 and the company is the second oldest business in Massillon. A.A. Hammersmith Insurance company has been located at 210 Erie St. N in Massillon since 1970. Biz moves: Backroad Gypsy offers odd, quirky items at downtown Massillon shop "Taking care of our customers and keeping them whole with affordable rates (has been key)," Weatherbee said about the insurance company's long run. "We carry about a dozen companies that we can take business to." Weatherbee spoke briefly during a Massillon-West Stark Chamber of Commerce business after hours event on Wednesday. The shindig was hosted at the Hammersmith building, 210 Erie St. N. Hammersmith employs 18 people at its Massillon site, as well as its satellite office in Alliance, said Weatherbee. Eight of the 18 employees are part owners. "We've got a great group here," he said. A proclamation honoring Hammersmith penned by Mayor Jamie Slutz was presented during the chamber event. The state of Ohio also recognized the longtime business. Today, the company serves more than 8,000 clients, as well as 700 businesses throughout Stark County and Northeast Ohio. Members of the Massillon-West Stark Chamber of Commerce help to celebrate A.A. Hammersmith Insurance company's 150th anniversary in Massillon. Thirty-year customer Mel Herncane said Hammersmith has always provided him with great service. "Anytime I've had an insurance matter, they've been prompt and professional," said Herncane. "They don't get any better than Harold and Doug Weatherbee. Harold Weatherbee, Doug's father, is a former leader of Hammersmith insurance. A.A. Hammersmith insured farms, vehicles, houses in early years A.A. Hammersmith's first office in 1874 was within a six-story structure at 11 Lincoln Way W, which is now the Chase bank building, Weatherbee said. In its early years of business, Hammersmith insured farms, farming equipment and vehicles. The A.A. Hammersmith Insurance building at 210 Erie St. N in Massillon was previously a toy store. "One of the big things we offered was fire insurance on houses," he added. Since 1970, Hammersmith has been housed at its current building, which was once a toy store before the insurance company took it over. Nearly 10 years ago, a major fire scorched much of the Hammersmith building during a severe thunderstorm. Cars, boats and the Downtown Massillon Association's Christmas decorations were stored in the building at the time. The longest tenured business in Massillon is Heitger Funeral Service, which started in 1869, according to Massillon historian Margy Vogt. Liebermann's Bakery came along in the 1880s, and remains in operation as Liebermann's and Beyond Bakery. The Independent celebrated its 150th year in 2013. Story continues Reach Steven at steven.grazier@indeonline.com. On X: @sgrazierINDE This article originally appeared on The Independent: A.A. Hammersmith Insurance celebrates 150 years in Massillon Leon County Judge, Seat 4 Type of race: Non-partisan Who can vote: All registered voters What's next: If one of the candidates wins more than half the vote, he or she will win the seat outright. If not, the top two candidates will move to a runoff in the Nov. 5 general election. How much does this position pay: $180,616 Mandatory retirement: A state constitutional amendment passed by voters in 2018 requires Florida judges to retire no later than their 75th birthday. CANDIDATES Cydnee Brown Cydnee Brown is running for Leon County Judge Seat 4 in the 2024 election. Age: 69 Profession: Lawyer/Attorney Qualifications: Juris Doctorate, FSU College of Law, 2003, Florida Bar No. 10246, 2005, Practicing Attorney 2004 to present Website: cydneebrown.com Q: Explain your judicial philosophy and how that would guide your actions on the bench. A: As a teacher (Rickards & Ghazvini), Id explain to my students, Anyone that impedes the learning process is an enemy and must be removed." Judicially, fairness & equity rule, humanity & insight guide, adherence to law controls and mercy has its place. I have always fought for justice. As a child in NYCs schoolyards, I often positioned myself between the timid and the bully. Id say, Why not pick on somebody thats not scared of you. Q: What do you perceive to be the greatest obstacle to justice in 2024? A: This is a difficult question as responses can be based on perceptions derived from a myriad of vantage points. For the sake of brevity and immediate relevance, I will curtail my response to a local, Leon County perspective and say: Complacency & ignorance are in direct enmity with justice. Each voter has an obligation to ensure that justice prevails. The complacent voter muses, what difference does it make? It is what it is. Ignorance of local laws, rules, positions (elected & non), policies & procedures disarms and neutralizes a voter. How does one withstand an unknown enemy? Robert Churchill Robert Churchill is running for Leon County Judge Seat 4 in the 2024 election. Age: 48 Profession: Consumer and small business protection attorney, founder and managing partner, Churchill Law Group, PLLC. Qualifications: Trial lawyer and business owner (18 years), Judicial Nominating Commission nominee (4 times). Small Claims Rules Committee (6 years). Pro Bono Legal Service Award, 2020. Website: churchillforjudge.com Q: Explain your judicial philosophy and how that would guide your actions on the bench. A: My judicial philosophy is to avoid judicial philosophies. I think judicial philosophy is a topic for law professors. When judges attempt to utilize judicial philosophies, the result can be harsh or even ridiculous. A practical, pragmatic approach to each case, and a commitment to following the law as written (instead of substituting ones own opinion of what the law should be) is a minimum requirement for any judge. Judges should listen more than they talk, and should be prepared to explain their reasoning to every person impacted by a ruling. And judges should leave philosophy to the philosophers. Q: What do you perceive to be the greatest obstacle to justice in 2024? A: The obstacle: too many cases and too few judges to hear them. Whatever its root causes, the crowding of the docket and the lack of efficient management of existing cases, and lack of effective use of the tools already in place for such management, creates a danger that all cases (and any one case) might not be given adequate attention, and that creates an obstacle to justice. There are many other examples of injustice, but to address any of them, a judge must be able to devote sufficient attention and time to the cause immediately at hand. LaShawn Riggans LaShawn Riggans is running for Leon County Judge Seat 4 in the 2024 election. Age: 56 Profession: Litigation attorney Qualifications: Practiced both criminal and civil law, handled cases in county court ranging from criminal matters to civil disputes and ordinance violations. Website: riggans4judge.com Q: Explain your judicial philosophy and how it would direct your conduct on the bench. A: I believe in striving to keep the scales of justice balanced. Being practical and dealing with issues sensibly. This approach ensures fairness, the upholding of the rule of law, and the protection of individual rights and liberties. Q: What do you perceive to be the greatest obstacle to justice in 2024? A: Inequality, divisiveness, and the lack of access to legal resources. Tallahassee Democrat, WFSU, League of Women Voters hold local candidate forums for 2024 primary. Here's how to watch. The ultimate Leon County, Tallahassee voter's guide to the 2024 primary election. Study up to vote with confidence Missed our voters guide to the Tallahassee primary? Subscribers can find the e-edition here CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story included an incorrect date for the general election. Breaking & trending news reporter Elena Barrera can be reached at ebarrera@tallahassee.com. Follow her on X: @elenabarreraaa. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Leon County Judge, Seat 4: Voters' guide to the 2024 primary election Leon County Schools Superintendent Democratic Primary Type of race: Partisan Who can vote: All registered voters in Leon County What's next: The winner of the primary election will face Joe Burgess, the no-party-affiliated candidate, in the November general election. How much does this position pay: $159,988 CANDIDATES Rocky Hanna Rocky Hanna, Leon County Superintendent of Schools Age: 60 Profession: Superintendent of Leon County Schools Qualifications: 36 years with Leon County Schools and current superintendent. Website: rockyhanna.org Q: If you can accomplish just one thing in office, what would it be? A: Early childhood education and kindergarten readiness has been one of my top priorities. Over the last eight years, we have forged partnerships with the Early Learning Coalition, Healthy Start, private providers and even our local hospitals to help intervene at the beginning of life when 95% of a childs brain is being developed. Our Littles to Leaders program has taken off as we look to guide young parents and mothers, helping them to understand the important role they play as their childs first teacher. My goal is to increase Leon Countys kindergarten readiness numbers from 53% to over 60% by 2028. Q: What is one way the district can address the socioeconomic achievement gap to ensure equitable educational outcomes for all students? A: The biggest impact I can have, as superintendent, is to appoint high quality, high performing, and high character principals at each of our Title I Schools. I am extremely proud of the principals currently serving in our Title I schools and the job they are doing. In addition, we must ensure that our academic investments are equitable for all students. The $20 million commitment we made to purchase 30,000 Chromebooks ensures that every student, at every school, has the same quality of learning device. This investment has been a game changer in the area of equity for all and how we deliver instruction. Genleah Star Swain Star Swain is the elementary principal at FAMU DRS, and hopes to become the first woman to be superintendent in Leon County. Age: 42 Profession: Principal of Florida A&M University Development Research School (Elementary) Qualifications: 21 years of experience in teaching and administration, current elementary principal at Florida A&M University's Developmental Research School. Website: votestarswain.org Q: If you can accomplish just one thing in office, what would it be? A: As superintendent, I will improve the recruitment and retention of highly qualified teachers in our school district by increasing teacher salaries, minimizing salary compression, and implementing incentives and bonuses, utilizing teacher input in the decision-making process for curriculum and instruction, and developing a culture of collaboration, support, and relationship-building through the appropriate implementation of professional learning communities, teacher leadership mentoring programs, and team building with school and district leaders. The recruitment and retention of highly qualified and passionate educators in our school district has a significant impact on instruction and student achievement, and student success is priority number one. Q: What is one way the district can address the socioeconomic achievement gap to ensure equitable educational outcomes for all students? A: Socioeconomic achievement gaps happen is because of higher teacher turnover rates and decreased numbers of experienced and highly qualified teachers working in Title I schools. In 2022-23, 36% of teachers in Title I schools in Leon County were inexperienced, and 20% of teachers in those schools held only a temporary certificate, compared to 24% and 10% in non-Title I schools respectively, contributing to inequitable educational outcomes. The district must ensure that more experienced teachers are recruited to low SES schools with pay incentives and provide relevant professional learning and support for current teachers in Title I schools to address those students needs. All schools should have equitable access to quality educators and resources to ensure equity and to decrease the socioeconomic achievement gap. Tallahassee Democrat, WFSU, League of Women Voters hold local candidate forums for 2024 primary. Here's how to watch. The ultimate Leon County, Tallahassee voter's guide to the 2024 primary election. Study up to vote with confidence Missed our voters guide to the Tallahassee primary? Subscribers can find the e-edition here Alaijah Brown covers children & families for the Tallahassee Democrat. She can be reached atABrown1@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter/X: @AlaijahBrown3. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Leon Schools Superintendent Democratic primary: 2024 voters' guide Letters to the Editor: How to get Donald Trump onto a debate stage with Kamala Harris Former President Trump, right, has said he will not debate Vice President Kamala Harris on Sept. 10 on ABC. (Associated Press) To the editor: Former President Trump is right that the agreed-upon debate is supposed to be between him and President Biden, not Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic nominee. ("Trump pulls out of scheduled debate with Harris, saying he wants to face off on Fox News," Aug. 3) So, Biden should arrive on Sept. 10 ready to debate Trump on ABC, but Harris should be nearby. When Biden speaks, instead of answering the question, he should say the same thing every time: "This is ridiculous! I know our agreement is to debate each other, but I'm retiring in four months. Kamala took my place, and she should do so now. How about it, Donald? Let's bring her out here." I know I'm being silly, but it's not as silly as having Trump run for president three times. Jeff Vaughn, Encino .. To the editor: We already knew that Trump was a bully, liar and convicted felon. Now we can add to the list that he's also a coward afraid to face a younger, female candidate he can't bully. Without his MAGA followers cheering him on and believing every lie he tells, he puts his tail between his legs and wants to scoot back to Fox News, where they will nod to everything he says. I have yet to hear him talk about what his policies would be other than to install people loyal only to him and not the citizens or the Constitution in every place of government. Is this the type of person we want in power as president? Rita Skinner, Riverside .. To the editor: Trump is obviously running scared, but he may have a point that a debate on ABC, an entity with whom he has pending litigation, may present a "conflict of interest." For her part, Harris knows that proposing a debate on Fox News with its conservative skew and screaming live audience is a page right out of the Trump playbook. Since neutrality seems to be an issue, I propose that the debate be moderated by the British Broadcasting Corp., or BBC. Certainly the former president has no beef with the BBC, does he? And, if Trump insists on a live audience, I'd be much more comfortable with the BBC choosing attendees than Fox News. Jerrold Coleman, Santa Clarita .. To the editor: Harris should absolutely refuse Trump's offer to debate on Fox. Instead, she should propose they hold it on the courthouse steps in New York when he's sentenced on his 34 felony counts. When asked about his abrupt cancellation, a fitting reply would be, "It's criminal." Louis Spirito, Port Hueneme This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are those of our readers and not the Pensacola News Journal. In order for letters to be considered for publication, they must be 250 words or less and include name, a full address and phone number. Only your name and city of residence will be published. Email submissions to opinion@pnj.com. Anyone voting Parker or Calkins deserves what they get Regarding the Developer money fueling Santa Rosa campaigns piece from July 14, it was perfect timing for the investigative report recently published exposing the racket of campaign donations benefiting two local county commission candidates. Thanks to our local paper and the talents of journalist Tom McLaughlin. Its time the scoundrels Parker and Calkins are called out for their shenanigans. If Parker and Calkins truly believed what they say on their over-the-top, ridiculous campaign mailers, they would refuse the dirty money from development interests. Plain and simple. Anyone who cares knows its the development interests buttering Parkers and Calkins toast! Its boring, but take a look at the campaign finance reports filed with the Supervisor of Elections office. Its all there. I am glad to see others paying attention to this outrageously blatant bankrolling of certain commissioners campaigns. How can a sitting commissioner up for reelection take such handouts from fat cat development interests and seriously expect voters to believe they are being fairly represented? I question the honesty of such candidates and their hidden motives. If voters reelect these scoundrels, they deserve what they asked for. Who are these candidates beholden to? Follow the money to the development interests that are funding their campaigns! Greg Scoville, Milton Readers don't hold back: Letters: Pensacolas Mayoki Indians tribe should not be shamed by feigned moral outrage Santa Rosa deserves better than incumbents Calkins, Parker Traits like honesty, integrity and character are important qualities to look for in political candidates. Unfortunately, those arent evident with two incumbents running for re-election to the Santa Rosa County Commission. Sam Parker and James Calkins offer several examples as to why. Both men have accepted numerous campaign donations from the very developers, real estate and title firms that they oversee. Is it any wonder nearly every zoning request gets rubber-stamped for approval? Calkins introduced a resolution to ban illegal immigrants from the county, a blatant political stunt that Parker supported. It was voted down, but not before casting legal, hard-working and tax-paying immigrants in a negative light. Parker, a former sworn law enforcement officer, is openly supporting a convicted felon for higher office. Calkins does as well. Justice must have blind eyes for these so-called law and order candidates. Calkins hasnt posted his occupation or biography on his official Santa Rosa County Commission profile. Why is that and who might he be beholden to? Russian handlers? Its time for honesty and integrity from our elected officials. Vote no on incumbents Parker and Calkins on Aug. 20. Santa Rosa County deserves better than these two dubious choices. Dave Lear, Pace Neither Calkins nor Gaetz has done anything to deserve your vote The local primary elections are just around the corner and we all should take a good look at the candidates who will help shape our local growth in the future. We face many problems with the environment being severely damaged as more and more homes are being built with no consideration for the huge impact they will have on the infrastructure that will need to support it all. As we face these real problems, there two candidates running for reelection who have done absolutely nothing, they are James Calkins and Matt Gaetz. James Calkins spends most of his time trying to regulate morality and spread his religious beliefs instead of attending to the many problems associated with the massive homes building going on which is over taxing our county infrastructure. Meanwhile, Matt Gaetz is busy trying to kill endangered whales while worshiping at the feet of Donald Trump. He and the other Republican members of the House of Representatives have done nothing to help the economy or pass any bills that in any way benefit the American taxpayer. They only seem to want to seek retribution for Trump being found guilty in the New York trials. Isn't it about time that we elected people who care about important issues that affect us above and beyond personal vendettas. If Calkins wants to have a say in our religious beliefs, then I suggest he join a seminary and leave governing to those who care about taking care of Santa Rosa County. Thomas Kaiser, Milton Santa Rosa desperately needs new leadership County commissioners past and present are responsible for what Santa Rosa County is now seeing. The county commission controls the budget. Our piggybank. The voting majority of current commissioners do not see the big picture. Continually voting for large scale home plats without road concurrency and allowing clear cutting has created the problems of traffic and flooding. Again, they want more taxes. Impact fees are 30 years too late. The traffic problem has reared its head and is so bad that some of the most elite United States military members spend two and a half hours trying to get to work. Americas best deserve better. Election time is near. The primary in Santa Rosa County is on Aug. 20 and will determine who the next commissioners will be. Early voting is Aug. 5 through the 17. I strongly suggest looking at political donations and where they came from before voting. My vote is for logical new leadership. Don Manfred, Pace Hear from our readers: Letters: Democracy is on the ballot in November and the reality is we must vote blue Heed words of MLK and vote for just and inclusive leaders I've been reading "Why we can't wait" by Martin Luther King. He stressed the importance of good people getting involved in stopping unjust laws that hurt others. Our legislators, Andrade and Rudman, voted to pass discriminatory laws against LGBTQ individuals and immigrants. They supported bills that made homelessness illegal, banning books, loosened child labor laws, restricted local authorities from mandating water and heat breaks for workers and gave public education dollars to the wealthy for private and church schools. Our legislators received an "F" rating for putting special interests ahead of their constituents.We need to elect leaders that are sensitive to our needs, not outside special interest groups. Leaders that do not discriminate, protect the environment, protect workers and support quality public education for a prosperous society. Stop the takeover of our communities by bad lawmakers and their special interests.Martin Luther King used his Christian beliefs to get good people involved to pass the Civil Rights bill for Blacks and all people. Now "good people" need to vote for good leaders that solve problems and pass just laws that protect everyone. Vote for Gay Valimont, Lisa Newell and Haley Morrisette. Vote for Democracy! Helaine Gottschalk, Pace Mucarsel-Powell an easy choice over Sen. Scott Recently, I had the chance to hear U.S. Senate Democratic candidate Debbie Mucarsel-Powell speak at a "meet and greet" in Pensacola and came away very impressed. She is very knowledgeable on the different issues affecting Americans and Florida residents. She later held a round table with veterans, and she listened intently to our concerns. She has some excellent ideas on how to solve issues, and she exuded warmth and empathy. Debbie supports investing in job and vocational training, expanding healthcare access, protecting Social Security, preserving the environment (to include the Everglades), expanding gun safety laws, defending democracy, and protecting women's rights to make their own healthcare decisions. When Debbie Mucarsel-Powell is elected, she will operate in a bipartisan fashion, something we need these days, and will keep an "open door" in Washington, D.C. She is running against Sen. Rick Scott, and she will be my choice on election day. Rita Manning-Meyer, Pensacola Escambia Countys education performance must be improved The economic development and the future of our community are directly dependent on improvements in the education we provide our children. The education of our children is just too important. For too long the citizens and businesses of Escambia County have accepted the poor performance of Escambia County Schools. Escambia County school system ranks 57th out of the 67 Florida counties. The math and reading proficiency scores, high school graduation rates and other performance metrics of Escambia County students are below state averages. Escambia County teacher salaries are below those of neighboring counties. The poor performance of our Escambia County School System and the relative educational achievements of our students compared to other Florida counties (as documented in statewide rankings and metrics) is a clarion call for action. The education of our children is too important. What is required are renewed commitments to education improvements via: electing new leadership to the Escambia County School Board with a focus on accountability and strategic planning; stronger parental engagement - programs like Parent University; and iIncreased partnerships between the business community and our public school system. The education of our children and the future of our community is just too important. Lets get to work! Ed Ranelli, Pensacola Calkins nonstop antics are a disgrace Once again Jimmy Calkins seeks to divide and pit neighbor against neighbor, in his never-ending self-promotion and self-aggrandizing, bullying style. This is the same person who prior to even being elected to the commission, was stopped from bullying several of my associates (senior women), by myself. He was "saving" places for his church cronies to sit for maximum camera exposure, and when I confronted him on this he backed off and said he was not "saving" seats but just making sure they had a place to sit. His nonstop antics since then are a disgrace to us all, and to allow him to maintain a seat on the commission is a disservice to the residents of Santa Rosa County and a total waste of our taxpayer money. Did I mention his cowardly behavior the first time I met him? This was a true bully move. All bullies are little boys and little girls trying to prove themselves superior in some way. Remove this waste of resources from our government. Thank you. Joannie Parks, Navarre Never miss a story: Subscribe to the Pensacola News Journal using the link at the bottom of the page under Stay Connected. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Letters: Sam Parker and James Calkins voters deserve what they get Two Lexington men who took part in scamming luxury car dealerships out of more than $6 million have been sentenced to federal prison terms. Hussein Qasim, 34, was sentenced to four years and nine months in prison and his brother Ibramin Qasim, 29, was sentenced to three years and nine months, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. U.S. District Judge Karen K. Caldwell signed an order for Hussein Qasim to pay the government $649,500 and for Ibrahim Qasim to pay $1,280,602, representing the amounts they received in the scam. Ibrahim Qasim also gave up a 2024 Mercedes Benz GLE Coupe under the order. The brothers pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. According to court records, they took part in a scam in which people in other countries contacted car dealerships in the U.S., pretending to be employees of dealerships themselves, to discuss sales of luxury cars. That enabled the scammers to get photos of expensive cars and information such as identification numbers. The scammers used that information to make deals and sell the cars to other dealerships even though they didnt own them. The Qasims took part in the conspiracy by receiving money for the cars in bank accounts in Lexington and then transferring it to others, sometimes using cryptocurrency, according to their plea agreements. For example, after scammers sold a dealership in Portland a BMW M3 in April 2023, the business sent $350,000 to an account Ibrahim Qasim controlled, according to his plea. Qasim sent some of the money to co-conspirators and some to another company, took some in cash and used the rest at a casino, according to his plea. In another case, the scammers used an account Hussein Qasim controlled to receive a $740,000 payment for a Ferrari SF9 in June 2022, according to the court record. People involved in the conspiracy caused at least 10 dealerships in the U.S. to send money for cars the scammers didnt own, according to a sentencing memorandum from Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn M. Dieruf. Of those, seven dealerships lost more than $6 million between June 2022 and December 2023, according to the memo. Some dealerships and banks were able to stop payments or get back money. When Hussein Qasim learned there was a federal warrant for his brother, he made plans to flee the country, buying a one-way ticket overseas through Turkish Airlines, according to the prosecution memo. Police arrested him at Chicago OHare International Airport when he arrived to get on the flight, the memo said. Caldwell sentenced the brothers Monday in federal court in Lexington. LI man sentenced in DWI crash that killed girl days before her 7th birthday LI man sentenced in DWI crash that killed girl days before her 7th birthday Editors note: The video above aired on Aug. 7, 2023. NEW YORK (PIX11) A Freeport man was sentenced to six to 12 years in prison Monday in a 2023 drunk driving crash that killed a 6-year-old girl in Hempstead, officials said. Jorge Bonilla Gutierrez, 19, sped through a red light while drunk on Hempstead Turnpike around 2:20 a.m on Aug. 7, according to prosecutors. Thats when he crashed into a Toyota Corolla that was in the right lane with its hazard lights on. More Local News The impact sent the Toyota Corolla flying off the roadway and into a tree, while Bonilla Gutierrezs car, a Nissan Pathfinder, flipped multiple times, prosecutors said. Katerine Vanegas Hernandez, 6, was inside the Toyota Corolla when Bonilla Gutierrez crashed into it. She suffered from internal injuries and died just two days before her seventh birthday, according to prosecutors. Hernandezs 5-year-old brother suffered a fractured spine, while the driver had multiple broken ribs, prosecutors said. Bonilla Gutierrez was taken into custody near the crash, according to prosecutors. Beer cans were found inside and near the crash scene, per police. His blood alcohol level content was 0.17% an hour after the crash, prosecutors said. The legal blood alcohol limit in New York state is 0.08%. Bonilla Gutierrez pleaded guilty in June to manslaughter, assault and driving while intoxicated. The Nassau County District Attorney recommended a sentence between six to 15 years in prison. Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. Light the flame of freedom in Florida: Let pot smokers blaze up In November, Floridians will vote on Amendment 3, which would legalize the recreational use of marijuana in Florida. Floridians should be free to smoke pot Republican state Sen. Joe Gruters is correct (Im a very conservative Republican. Heres why I support legalizing marijuana in Florida, Aug. 1). Passing Amendment 3 is about expanding freedom and liberty in the Sunshine State. Adults in 24 states comprising over half of the U.S. population live in a jurisdiction where the adult-use cannabis marketplace is legally regulated. None of these states have repealed or even rolled back their laws. Further, public support for marijuana legalization has never been higher. This is evidence that these policies are working largely as voters and politicians intended and that they are preferable to cannabis criminalization. Voting yes on Amendment 3 will disrupt the illicit cannabis market, end tens of thousands of low-level marijuana arrests, create jobs and bring in new streams of tax revenue. It makes no sense from a public health, fiscal or moral perspective to arrest, prosecute and incarcerate adults who choose to responsibly consume a substance that is objectively safer than either alcohol or tobacco. Paul Armentano, deputy director, National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, Washington, D.C. Some candidates beholden to developers Voters in Manatee and other Florida counties should be aware of who is supporting our candidates for commissioner. Several are being bankrolled by companies and developers with anticipation of favorable results for their business. Our local newspaper is to be applauded for publishing the sources of political funding for candidates. Relaxation of fees, alteration of wetlands restrictions and changes in growth plans have occurred in the last few years. Our commissioners are providing favorable decisions to allow developers to swamp roadways, stress infrastructure and endanger the environment. Citizens do not benefit; the developers do. Educate yourself and vote. Robert Richard, Sarasota More: Herald-Tribune: How to send a letter to the editor This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: End criminalization of pot smoking in Florida The deadline for Monroe County students to apply for the 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship application is Aug. 15. The application is available now through the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County, according to a news release. The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program (LECSP) provides 147 scholarships statewide and two scholarships in Monroe County. LECSP scholarships may be used for otherwise unreimbursed full tuition, required fees, and a special allocation of up to $900 per year. The special allocation may cover the costs for required books and equipment for four years of undergraduate study on a full-time basis leading to a baccalaureate degree at any eligible Indiana public or private nonprofit college or university. The program, administered statewide by Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI) and locally in Monroe County through the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County, is open to all Indiana residents who: graduate from an accredited Indiana high school by 2025 and receive their diploma no later than June 30, 2025; intend to pursue a full-time baccalaureate course of study at an eligible college or university in Indiana; and meet the criteria specific to their local community foundation. Visit www.cfbmc.org for complete information regarding Monroe Countys application criteria. Students can learn more and apply by visiting https://cfbmc.org/lasting-impact/apply-for-a-scholarship/lilly-scholarship/. Monroe County applications must be completed and submitted by Thursday, August 15, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. to be considered. In September, students selected as semifinalists will be invited to answer additional application questions and provide reference recommendations from teachers or others. Applications for the finalist round will be due by Sept. 24. Finalists will be identified and interviewed in October, and the names of the two 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars for Monroe County will be submitted to ICI for final selection of the recipients. Scholarship recipients will be notified in December 2024. Eligibility Requirements for Monroe Countys Lilly Endowment Community Scholarships: Applicant must be a legal resident of Monroe County, Indiana. Applicant must be currently attending or have attended an accredited Monroe County high school and/or the Indiana Academy (in Delaware County) for a minimum of three consecutive years (including senior year) and graduate by June of 2025. Eligible schools include The Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship, Covenant Christian School, Bloomington Graduation School, Bloomington High School North, Bloomington High School South, Edgewood High School, Harmony School, Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics & Humanities, Lighthouse Christian Academy, and Seven Oaks Classical School. Applicant must have a cumulative GPA of 3.70 or above (on a weighted four-point scale) through the end of their junior year and plan to pursue a full-time baccalaureate course of study at an Indiana college or university beginning in the Fall of 2025. Applicants must be available to participate in an interview with the selection committee on the evening of Oct. 21 or 22 if selected as a finalist for the scholarship. Evaluation Process for Monroe County Lilly Endowment Community Scholarships There is not a rigid model for the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. A student who demonstrates notable abilities, leadership skills, civic potential through community service, exemplary school citizenship, and outstanding academic performance will be considered for this scholarship opportunity. Applications are blindly reviewed and independently scored by members of a Lilly Scholarship committee at each Monroe County high school to identify semifinalists. The number of semifinalists identified is determined by each schools senior class size. Next, semifinalists submit additional content and references from schools and other members of the community. The Community Foundation Scholarship Selection Committee then evaluates the semifinalist applications. This committee, comprising community members and a former Monroe County Lilly Scholar, blindly reviews and scores applications from the semifinalists to select 10 finalists. In October, each finalist will be interviewed, and their interview scores will be combined with scoring from the written applications. In selecting recipients for the Monroe County Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship, consideration is given to academic performance and activities, community engagement and civic service, student employment, and leadership potential. The finalists rankings, along with the committees recommendations for scholarship nominees, are then submitted to Independent Colleges of Indiana, Inc. for final selection of scholarship recipients for Monroe County prior to the formal announcement in December. The Lilly Endowment and Independent Colleges of Indiana are opening doors and encouraging high school students to pursue their college dreams right here in Indiana, said Tina Peterson, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County. By offering the option to attend any accredited four-year college or university in the state, Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are able to broaden their educational horizons while staying connected to their roots. This enriches their experiences and boosts the chances theyll build their careers in Indiana. Its a win-win for our students and our communities. We encourage individuals throughout Monroe County to spread the word about this opportunity, especially considering that the application deadline occurs before most high school seniors begin their final academic year, added Peterson. As always, we look forward to getting to know the applicants and hope each one of them will continue their post-secondary educations in Indiana and pursue thriving careers here in the Indiana Uplands region. Lilly Endowment created LECSP for the 1997-98 school year and has supported the program every year since with tuition grants totaling more than $490 million. More than 5,300 Indiana students have received Lilly Endowment Community Scholarships since the programs inception. For more information on the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program or other scholarships administered by CFBMC, visit https://www.cfbmc.org/lasting-impact/apply-for-a-scholarship/ or contact Marcus Whited, program director, at 812-333-9016 or marcus@cfbmc.org. This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: Community foundation accepting Lilly scholarship applications now CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)Tropical Storm Debbys center is inching closer to the Lowcountry, and its historic effects are expected to impact the area. As a result, Lowcountry counties have opened citizen call centers for residents to report storm damage and flooding. Charleston County The Citizens Services Desk will take non-emergency calls 24 hours a day. City officials said residents can call 843-724-7311 with questions or requests or email citizenservices@charleston-sc.gov. For Spanish speakers, call 843-746-3909. To report storm damage and flooded roads, click here. Berkeley County Residents are asked to report storm damage online first if their home or business is damaged. There are several options for uploading media of the damage. If the resident does not have power, then call the Citizen Call Line at 843-719-4800 and leave a detailed message. The call line will also provide automatic updates on how Debby affects the county when called. Dorchester County To report storm damage, downed trees, storm-related road problems, or flooded roads in Dorchester County, contact the call center at 843- 832-0393. You can also fill out a form on this website. Colleton County To report downed trees or water blocking roadways, residents are told to call the Colleton County Sheriffs Office at 843-549-2211 or the Colleton County Emergency Operation Center at 843-549-5632. Georgetown County To get storm information, contact the Georgetown County Information Hotline at 843-545-3900, which is operational 24/7 when emergency operations are activated. You can also report to Georgetown County Emergency Management at 843-545-3273. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. Investors are often guided by the idea of discovering 'the next big thing', even if that means buying 'story stocks' without any revenue, let alone profit. But as Peter Lynch said in One Up On Wall Street, 'Long shots almost never pay off.' Loss making companies can act like a sponge for capital - so investors should be cautious that they're not throwing good money after bad. So if this idea of high risk and high reward doesn't suit, you might be more interested in profitable, growing companies, like PWF Corporation Bhd (KLSE:PWF). Now this is not to say that the company presents the best investment opportunity around, but profitability is a key component to success in business. Check out our latest analysis for PWF Corporation Bhd PWF Corporation Bhd's Earnings Per Share Are Growing The market is a voting machine in the short term, but a weighing machine in the long term, so you'd expect share price to follow earnings per share (EPS) outcomes eventually. That makes EPS growth an attractive quality for any company. PWF Corporation Bhd's shareholders have have plenty to be happy about as their annual EPS growth for the last 3 years was 56%. Growth that fast may well be fleeting, but it should be more than enough to pique the interest of the wary stock pickers. Top-line growth is a great indicator that growth is sustainable, and combined with a high earnings before interest and taxation (EBIT) margin, it's a great way for a company to maintain a competitive advantage in the market. PWF Corporation Bhd shareholders can take confidence from the fact that EBIT margins are up from -3.4% to 3.0%, and revenue is growing. Both of which are great metrics to check off for potential growth. In the chart below, you can see how the company has grown earnings and revenue, over time. To see the actual numbers, click on the chart. PWF Corporation Bhd isn't a huge company, given its market capitalisation of RM269m. That makes it extra important to check on its balance sheet strength. Are PWF Corporation Bhd Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders? Seeing insiders owning a large portion of the shares on issue is often a good sign. Their incentives will be aligned with the investors and there's less of a probability in a sudden sell-off that would impact the share price. So we're pleased to report that PWF Corporation Bhd insiders own a meaningful share of the business. Owning 47% of the company, insiders have plenty riding on the performance of the the share price. Those who are comforted by solid insider ownership like this should be happy, as it implies that those running the business are genuinely motivated to create shareholder value. To give you an idea, the value of insiders' holdings in the business are valued at RM127m at the current share price. So there's plenty there to keep them focused! While it's always good to see some strong conviction in the company from insiders through heavy investment, it's also important for shareholders to ask if management compensation policies are reasonable. A brief analysis of the CEO compensation suggests they are. For companies with market capitalisations under RM885m, like PWF Corporation Bhd, the median CEO pay is around RM464k. PWF Corporation Bhd's CEO only received compensation totalling RM59k in the year to December 2023. You could consider this pay as somewhat symbolic, which suggests the CEO does not need a lot of compensation to stay motivated. While the level of CEO compensation shouldn't be the biggest factor in how the company is viewed, modest remuneration is a positive, because it suggests that the board keeps shareholder interests in mind. It can also be a sign of a culture of integrity, in a broader sense. Is PWF Corporation Bhd Worth Keeping An Eye On? PWF Corporation Bhd's earnings per share growth have been climbing higher at an appreciable rate. An added bonus for those interested is that management hold a heap of stock and the CEO pay is quite reasonable, illustrating good cash management. The strong EPS improvement suggests the businesses is humming along. PWF Corporation Bhd is certainly doing some things right and is well worth investigating. Don't forget that there may still be risks. For instance, we've identified 4 warning signs for PWF Corporation Bhd that you should be aware of. While opting for stocks without growing earnings and absent insider buying can yield results, for investors valuing these key metrics, here is a carefully selected list of companies in MY with promising growth potential and insider confidence. Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com Little less woods today: Polk deputies chop up huge tree blocking road following Debby Little less woods today: Polk deputies chop up huge tree blocking road following Debby POLK COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) Portions of Florida are still recovering from Hurricane Debby, including Polk County after the storm brought severe flooding and storm surge to the Tampa Bay area. Sheriff Grady Judd said Tuesday that a huge tree had fallen, blocking a road in Lake Thomas Woods in Winter Haven. Hurricane Debby blew $1 million worth of cocaine onto Florida beach Theres a little less woods in Lake Thomas Woods today, the sheriff said on social media. Credit: Polk County Sheriffs Office Credit: Polk County Sheriffs Office PSCO Special Operations Deputies responded and began sawing away at the tree to clear the roadway. This was around 8 a.m., so if anyone in the neighborhood was still sawin logs while our deputies were sawing logs, we apologize if they woke you up, he said. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. A Little Rock church is joining in on a state program looking to help Arkansans in need. Bullock Temple CME Church and its senior pastor, Odessa Darrough, are joining a faith-based initiative program started by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders and partnering with nonprofits to help combat maternal health in their community. Its a new era, Darrough said. Its time for a change. Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders launches Arkansas faith-based initiative website When Darrough heard that her churchs zip code was associated with the highest Black infant mortality rate, she said she knew it was time for her church to step in to help. She said the governors faith-based initiative was the perfect way for that change to happen. State officials said the program partners faith leaders with other advocates to address issues like childhood hunger, maternal health, foster care, social media and similar issues. Arkansas faith communities are built on serving others, Sanders said. When we unite our churches, temples, and faith-based nonprofits around the common issues facing our state, I know well build a better, brighter Arkansas. UA Little Rock professor publishes results from more than decade-long study focusing on local congregations Darrough created Baby for Me, a program to help combat infant mortality and raise awareness for maternal health. They discovered that its not so much a health issues as other problems like housing, education, and food insecurities, those type of issues, Darrough said. The program will hold classes twice a week at Bullock Temple CME Church, providing education for those in the community. The launch of the program will be announced soon through the Bullock Temples Church social media. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLRT - FOX16.com. A Madisonville resident made one of the first recreational marijuana purchases at a Greater Cincinnati dispensary Tuesday morning, the first day of legal sales in Ohio. A crowd of roughly a dozen people gathered outside the Sunnyside dispensary on Kennedy Avenue in Columbia Township before daylight Tuesday hoping to be among the first to buy recreational marijuana legally. Jeff Riede was first in line. The 55-year-old said hed been waiting in his car in the parking lot since about 6:30 p.m. Monday for the dispensary to open at 7 a.m. He planned to buy edibles and some flower, the dried cannabis material. Jeff Riede, 55, of Madisonville makes the first recreational marijuana purchase at a Greater Cincinnati dispensary Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Yeah, I slept in my car, Riede said. This is pretty epic to me. I wanted to be the first one here. Riede, who is self-employed, said he's been smoking marijuana since he was 18, but he doesnt like the risk associated with buying marijuana on the black market. Thats one of the reasons hes so excited about the dispensary opening for recreational users. Its just safer at the dispensary, he said. You dont have to worry about getting robbed or about it (marijuana) being laced with something that might hurt you. Jeff Riede, 55, of Madisonville, is among the first potential customers awaiting doors to open at Sunnyside Recreational and Medical Marijuana Dispensary A place to 'buy safely and have a choice' Rob Busemeyer, 50, didnt spend the night in his car. But the Norwood resident arrived appropriately at 4:20 a.m. to be second in line at the dispensary. The term 420 generally refers to marijuana in counterculture circles. Its like the prohibition of marijuana has been lifted, Busemeyer said while standing in line. Now I have someplace to go where I can buy safely and have a choice and not be stuck with whatevers available on the black market. 'I've been waiting for this for so long' By 8 a.m., the line outside Sunnyside stretched far beyond the stanchions funneling customers into the dispensary. But Northside resident Jean Maye, 47, had completed her purchase of flower and edibles by then. As she left the dispensary, Maye raised her shopping bag and shouted, Its official! Many of those standing in line applauded. This is just awesome. Ive been waiting for this for so long, she told The Enquirer. Manager: 'We're excited to see everyone' Ron Koth was first in line at Zen Leaf in Hartwell, which was no easy feat. He took two buses from his Delhi home to be in line by 7:30 a.m. I left at 6, he said. His goal wasnt to be first but simply to get in line. Customers wait in line at Zen Leaf cannabis dispensary on Vine Street in the Hartwell neighborhood of Cincinnati on Tuesday. I dont think a lot of people know whats happening yet, he said. I thought thered be a lot more people in line. By the time doors opened at 9 a.m., Koth was trailed by about 25 others waiting for service. He chose Zen Leaf over other dispensaries closer to his home because he liked the array of products advertised on its website. In Westwood, Nectar, a dispensary located at Werk Road and Glenway Avenue, had a mostly full queue on the first day of recreational sales, with a wait between 15-30 minutes.Justin Mack, zone manager for Nectars three Ohio stores, recommended checking out the dispensary website and product menu to get familiar with the products before coming to the dispensary. Also, customers should have their IDs and money out, he said. Dispensaries are cash only. Were excited to see everyone, Mack said. Some of Ohio's first recreational marijuana customers wait for the doors to open at Sunnyside Recreational and Medical Marijuana Dispensary on Kennedy Avenue in Columbia Township Where is it being sold? On Monday, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Cannabis Control said 98 dispensaries are set to be issued dual-use certificates of operation statewide Tuesday morning. The 19 in the Cincinnati region are: Ascend Dispensary Outlet, 830 Reedy St., Cincinnati. Beyond Hello, 693 Old State Route 74, Cincinnati. Bloom Medicinals, 403 S. Main St., Seven Mile. Columbia Care, 300 N. Main Street, Monroe. Consume Oxford, 3620 Southpointe Pkwy, Oxford. Nectar, 3405 Werk Road, Cincinnati. Pure Iconic, 5280 College Corner Pike, Oxford. Queen City Cannabis, 3764 Montgomery Road, Norwood. Queen City Cannabis, 10140 Suspension Bridge Road, Harrison. Shangri-La Dispensary, 211 Brooks Dr., Monroe. Shangri-La Dispensary, 100 Clarence F. Warner Dr., Monroe. Sunnyside, 5149 Kennedy Ave., Cincinnati. The Forest Cincinnati, 4412 Mount Carmel Tobasco Road, Cincinnati. The Landing, 4029 Smith Road, Cincinnati. The Landing, 1312 Hamilton Lebanon Road, Monroe. Uplift, 101 Mercy Boulevard, Mount Orab. Uplift, 401 Rivers Edge, Milford. Verilife, 5431 Ridge Ave., Cincinnati. Zen Leaf Cincinnati, 8420 Vine St., Cincinnati. Ron Koth of Delhi waits for the doors to open at Zen Leaf cannabis dispensary on Vine Street in the Hartwell neighborhood of Cincinnati on. Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Koth took two buses from Delhi to get to Zen Leaf in Carthage Tuesday. He uses marijuana for insomnia. He arrived at 7:20 am. These dispensaries will be allowed to sell to both medical and recreational customers age 21 and older. "The issuance of (certificates) is based on roughly the order in which completed applications were received by the Division and when compliance asks were fulfilled," the agency said in a statement. "To help ensure a fair and equitable rollout of the non-medical cannabis market in Ohio, the Division intends to award (certificates) to all remaining eligible dispensaries later this week." Adults 21 and older can possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and 15 grams of extracts or edibles in Ohio since voters legalized its use in last November's election. Customers stand in line inside of Sunnyside Recreational and Medical Marijuana Dispensary on Kennedy Avenue in Columbia Township, Ohio on Tuesday. But there are limits on what you can buy in one transaction. Initially, recreational customers can purchase no more than: One ounce of dried plant material, called flower. Ten units of oil to vape, each containing 590mg of THC. Ten packages of edibles totaling no more than 1,100mg of THC. The caps are combined across all types of products. That means you can't purchase the maximum amount of flower, vape cartridges and edibles in one sitting. The Enquirer will update this report. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ohio dispensaries start recreational marijuana sales. How's it going? Polls closed at 7 p.m. in both Kansas and Missouri for Tuesdays primary elections. Voters who turned out had a chance to make their picks for Missouri governor, attorney general and other state and local offices, along with weighing in on ballot questions on public safety and other issues. Most polling places reported slower than expected turnout, despite the fact that primary election results will shape important races on both sides of the state line ahead of the general election in November. In Missouri, voters were picking their candidates who will face off in November in the contests for governor and attorney general, among other offices. Voters were also deciding the future of Kansas City Police Department funding and, in Jackson County, making selections in the race for Jackson County prosecutor. Kansans were voting for state representatives to serve in Topeka, and in Johnson County they were narrowing the field in the races for sheriff and district attorney. Deanna Lowrey holds up a voting sticker after voting in the primary election at her Johnson County polling place on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. The Star will be publishing election results live Tuesday night at kansascity.com. All the young people should come out Update 7 p.m.: Christian Wade, 50, who went to her polling location at the Recreation Annex Building at 2900 State Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas, Tuesday evening, said her biggest local concern centers around housing, especially the citys homelessness issue and the growing issue of slumlords in the metro. She didnt have specific politicians she was excited for, but said she voted along left-leaning party lines. People need a place to live, regardless of how much they make, she said. Joann Glover, a 72-year-old moderate voter, didnt have big concerns about Wyandotte County this election day walking out of her polling location at Mt. Carmel Church of God in Christ at 2025 N 12th St., but was very worried about the economy for this upcoming November election. Glover said its important for younger voters to show up both in small elections and in the presidential ones. All the young people should come out to learn, to experience whats really going on in the world today to help them be better, do better and do what they need to do to really get a good education, she said. Every vote is important Update 6:45 p.m.: Shortly after voting together at the Johnson County Central Resource Library in Overland Park Tuesday evening, Heaven Jones said she was energized by the number of women on the ballot, and Pamela Boyd said she wanted to push forward good candidates into positions of leadership. Im a big supporter of womens rights, Jones said. Thats why Im out here. Being an African-American, its important to take advantage of the rights that we didnt always have, she added. Even if its just a primary vote, I think every vote is important. A lot of people think, Primary votes, oh its no big thing, Im waiting til November, Jones said. But I always tell people, hey, this is how we get people in position. This is how we get the right person in position, to support our leaders. Heaven Jones, left, and Pamela Boyd, shortly after voting at the Johnson County Central Resource Library in Overland Park. By The Stars Nathan Pilling If you dont have a seat at the table, youre on the menu Update 6 p.m.: Voter Susanne Mahoney, 60, said she tries to vote in every election because she considers it her privilege to do so. No specific issues got her to the polls Tuesday at 1120 Central Avenue, but she mentioned that Pat Pettey, a candidate for Kansas State Senator 6th District, stood out to her on the ballot because of their similar views and careers. Pettey is on the ballot and shes a retired educator, and I really like her view because Im an educator too, she said. Susanne Mahoney was there with her 20-year-old daughter, Meg Mahoney, an early voter, who said her biggest issues are womens rights and education, being a future educator herself. I went to a school that had more minorities and was under-resourced, so I feel its important to reach out to those communities because they need just as much help as everyone else, she said. Susanne Mahoney, 60, went to the polls Tuesday in Kansas City, Kansas, with her 20-year-old daughter Meg Mahoney, an early voter, who said her biggest issues are womens rights and education, being a future educator herself. Minah Chapell, 26, who also came out to vote Tuesday, is left leaning. She didnt have any specific issues she was focused on for this election, but thought it was important to show up to vote Tuesday at her polling place at the Bethany Community Center on Central Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas. She believes all young voters should do so, pointing out that those over age 60 pull up to every election en mass, and will make decisions for the younger population if they dont come forward to vote as well. If you dont have a seat at the table, youre on the menu, she said. By The Stars Noelle Alviz-Gransee Johnson County residents prioritize voting Update 5:30 p.m.: Some voters in Johnson County late Tuesday afternoon said no matter whats on the ballot, they make it a priority to vote. People have fought for so many years for the right to vote, said voter Deanna Lowrey after voting at her polling place at the Prairie Center Church of God of Prophecy in Olathe Tuesday afternoon. I just feel like if I want to have an opinion about something, then I should be voting for the person that has the same opinion that I have, Lowrey told The Star. People have fought for so many years for the right to vote, Deanna Lowrey said after voting at the Prairie Center Church of God of Prophecy polling place in Olathe Tuesday afternoon. Chris Hardage, an Air Force veteran, said he also prioritizes voting every chance he gets. You dont have to go very far to find places that dont have those freedoms to vote, Hardage said, after voting at the same location Tuesday. Its great to celebrate liberty and to do that and reflect on it in the quiet moments. Ill do that on the drive home. Its a small price. By The Stars Nathan Pilling Afternoon turnout stays slow Update 4:30 p.m.: A handful of primary voters trickled in and out at the polling place at 548 S. Coy Street in Kansas City, Kansas, Tuesday afternoon, with poll workers reporting slow turnout. Voter Jon Lunde, 49, is a local woodworker and registered Democrat. He said no specific issues or races got him to the polls this year, he just always makes an effort to vote at any election he can. I always try to get out even for primaries and midterm elections, Lunde told The Star. Denise Garcia, 72, and Carlos Garcia, 75, said that Medicare, womens rights and gerrymandering concerns brought them out to vote. Denise Garcia, 72, and Carlos Garcia, 75, said that Medicare, womens rights and gerrymandering concerns brought them to their poll location to vote in the primary election Tuesday at 548 S. Coy St. Kansas City, KS. We definitely dont want Trump in office and we need to have our Democratic voices heard, Denise Garcia said. Carlos Garcia, a former deputy, also mentioned his concern about stereotypes about people of Mexican heritage, and worries about an increase in discrimination against minorities. Im scared Im gonna have to carry an ID to say that Im an American citizen, he said. By The Stars Noelle Alviz-Gransee Slight uptick in turnout Update 2:30 p.m.: Voter turnout in Kansas City has seen a slight increase from Tuesday morning, but it is still lagging behind previous primary elections, said Shawn Kieffer, Republican director of the Kansas City Election Board. Right now, were on pace for about a 16% turnout, Kieffer said. We do anticipate, going into the later hours, it will move up a little more and get as high as 20%. If that holds true, voter turnout will be down from two years ago. In the past couple of primary elections, voter turnout has been around 26%, Kieffer said. People are getting in and out pretty quickly, Kieffer said. I have not heard of any issues with lines at any of our polling locations. By The Stars Kendrick Calfee Protecting individuals rights Update 2:10 p.m.: Voter Bethany Waddleton, 28, feels that as a Democrat living in Missouri, its important to show up for every vote to elect people who support issues she agrees with in all positions of government. A lot of people will go vote for just the main election every four years and not see that the local ones are a piece in getting more support for your values as well, Waddleton, who voted at Sacred Heart Hall, at 814 W. 26TH St. in Kansas City. For me, the top issue is protecting individual rights, she said. And I vote for people who align with supporting individual rights. Bethany Waddleton, 28, who voted in Tuesdays primaries at Sacred Heart Hall at 814 W. 26th St. in Kansas City, said its important to show for every vote to make sure people who are elected will support the issues she agrees with in all positions of government. GOP candidates for Missouri governor locked in tight race Update 1 p.m.: JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. Two of the top Republican candidates for Missouri governor, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, cast their ballots Tuesday morning at separate polling locations in Jefferson City. Polling has indicated that Ashcroft, Kehoe and Sen. Bill Eigel from Weldon Spring are locked in a tight race to succeed Gov. Mike Parson, who terms out of office in January. Whoever wins will face the Democratic nominee in the November election. Ashcroft voted shortly after 9 a.m. with his wife, Katie, and their four children. Ashcroft told reporters that he was excited, referencing the prospect of former President Donald Trump also being elected. Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, left, casts his ballot with his 15-year-old son, Samuel, on Aug. 6, 2024 in Jefferson City. To truly put the people first, to drain the swamp, as they say, which is unfortunately true. And really just put the people first make sure that every Missourian has the maximum opportunity to fulfill the most of their God-given potential, he said. But Kehoe, who cast his ballot just after 11:30 a.m., told reporters the momentum has been on his side for weeks. Our team has done a really good job of assembling some of the best people across the state in every county and were very optimistic, he said. Its up to the voters now. Its kind of a relief to be at this spot actually. Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, one of the top Republican candidates for governor, casts his ballot on Tuesday in Jefferson City. Shortly after speaking with reporters, Kehoe, the former owner of a car dealership in Jefferson City, began helping a woman in the parking lot jump her car. He connected jumper cables from the womans car to the truck of one of the interns for his campaign. By The Stars Kacen Bayless Steady turnout, but slower than expected Update 11:20 a.m: Despite a steady turnout in some polling locations, voting is overall slower than expected this morning, according to Shawn Kieffer, Republican director of the Kansas City Election Board. But a rush is expected around the noon. Its going slower than anticipated today and from the last couple primaries, Kieffer said. The last couple primaries we had about a 26% turnout and today has been much slower. It started off slow, then started picking up a little bit, then in the afternoon it should pick up even more, Kieffer said. Right now its at about a 15% (turnout) clip thats the pace we have going. Hopefully by the end of the day well have about 20% (turnout) maybe, just a little bit lower than anticipated. The Kansas City Election Board anticipated about a 25% turnout. Kieffer said he believes a slower voter turnout to start the day is due to limited contentious races on the Democratic side. The heavy Republican ballot for governor might mean less Democratic voters showing in this primary, Kieffer said. Everything has been smooth sailing at polls, no long lines or voting issues so far. They have a ton of election workers this year. By The Stars Kendrick Calfee Democratic Party needs to unify after primary Update 11 a.m.: SPRINGFIELD, Mo. Mike Hamra, a Democratic candidate for governor, cast his ballot Tuesday morning at a polling location in Springfield, where he lives. Hamra is running against Missouri House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, also of Springfield, for the Democratic nomination. Whoever wins will face the Republican nominee in the November general election. I think after the primary, the Democratic Party will need to unify, come together and stay together through the general election to really kind of put on a competitive challenge to whoever the Republican candidates are, whether its governor or anybody else up and down the ballot., Hamra told reporters. Democrats have struggled to win statewide elections in Missouri in recent years. The last time a Democrat won the governors race was 2012, when Gov. Jay Nixon won reelection. The Hamra-Quade race is the first time since 2004 that Missouri Democrats have had a significantly competitive primary for governor. Mike Hamra, a Democratic candidate for governor, cast his ballot Tuesday morning at a polling location in Springfield, where he lives. Hamra is running against Missouri House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, also of Springfield, for the Democratic nomination. Whoever wins will face the Republican nominee in the November general election. By The Stars Jonathan Shorman Passionate about womens rights Update 10:30 a.m.: Womens rights was the most important issue that motivated 61-year-old voter Tracy Ralls to showed up to her poll location at the Heavy Construction Laborers Local Union 663 at 7820 Prospect Avenue. I know we live in a Republican state and Missouri was one of the states enacting laws against womens rights, Ralls said. Im not for that. She was particularly passionate about the governors race, saying the state needs to see a change in leadership. Were not going to get nowhere if we dont change, she said. Voter Tracy Ralls, 61, said womens rights was on her mind when she went to the polls Tuesday at at the Heavy Construction Laborers Local Union 663 at 7820 Prospect Avenue in Kansas City. We live in a Republican state and Missouri was one of the states enacting laws against womens rights. Im not for that, she said. By The Stars Kendrick Calfee Surprising turnout Update 10 a.m.: Eddie Bailey, 62, spent Election Day volunteering for the Black political group Freedom Inc. at the polling location at Brush Creek Community Center, 3801 Cleaver II Blvd. This was his third year volunteering for the group and he was impressed with the turnout. Its been a consistent turnout. And this is early Bailey said. Im looking forward to more people to turn out Im surprised actually. Bailey was handing out infographics of endorsements by Freedom Inc. Ive given out over half of my ballot forms, Bailey said. By The Stars Kendrick Calfee Good for the nation Update 8:30 a.m.: A steady stream of voters showed up at 8:30 a.m. at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, 3634 Brooklyn Ave. in Kansas City. Cars were beginning to line Brooklyn. There were no lines or issues reported inside the poling location. George Rowles, 93, voted this morning at Mt. Sinai. The career U.S. Army veteran fought in the Korean War and later worked for a number of years in the government. Its good for the nation; its good for the country to vote, he said. George Rowles, 93, voted this morning at Mt. Sinai. The career U.S. Army veteran fought in the Korean War and later worked for a number of years in the government. Its good for the nation; its good for the country to vote, he said. pic.twitter.com/jAiBk6hvlI Kendrick Calfee (@calfee_kc) August 6, 2024 By The Stars Kendrick Calfee Early rush of voting Update 8 a.m.: Voting got off to a brisk start Tuesday at the polling site at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, 2200 Olive St. in Kansas City, but tapered off after the initial rush. Polls were busy around the time they opened at 6 a.m., said 64-year-old poll worker Alphonzo Courtney, but slowed down as the hour passed. After that, a steady trickle of voters was arriving to his location One of those voters is Andrew Vasquez, 63, who lives just up the street from his polling location. We need to make sure that we secure our democracy in every aspect of line of duty, he said, urging others vote and have their voice heard. It matters, he said. One of those voters is Andrew Vasquez, 63, who lives just up the street from his polling location. We need to make sure that we secure our democracy in every aspect of line of duty, he said, urging others vote and have their voice heard. It matters, he said. pic.twitter.com/MgYXU8zgRK Kendrick Calfee (@calfee_kc) August 6, 2024 No lines or issues were reported. By The Stars Kendrick Calfee Drive-up, curbside voting Update 7:20 a.m.: The Kansas City Elections Board announced in a tweet on X, formerly Twitter, that it will have drive-up, curbside voting available from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at its offices at 4407 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Voters are reminded to bring an acceptable form of ID if you choose to vote curbside. @KCElectionBd will have drive-up, curbside voting available at their location at 4407 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., KCMO 64130, from 10 am 7pm today. Voters will need to bring an acceptable form of ID if they choose to utilize this option, the election board said on X. pic.twitter.com/hx6RntbCoz Kendrick Calfee (@calfee_kc) August 6, 2024 By The Stars Kendrick Calfee This is a developing story and will be updated. Live updates: Kamala Harris and Tim Walz appear in Philadelphia for their first rally together Vice President Kamala Harris appeared on stage for the first time Tuesday night with her newly-announced running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz at a rally in Philadelphia. Harris, who formally secured the Democratic presidential nomination on Monday night, elicited cheers from the crowd when she said, "I stand before you today to proudly announce I am now officially the Democratic nominee for president of the United States." Harris confirmed her choice of Walz as a running mate in a post on social media Tuesday, writing: "As a governor, a coach, a teacher, and a veteran, he's delivered for working families like his. It's great to have him on the team. Now lets get to work." A number of high profile Democrats quickly offered their support for Walz as Harris's running mate, including former President Barack Obama, former Secretary of State and Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and Speaker Emeritus Nancy Pelosi, among others. In a statement posted to X, President Biden said Harris made a "great decision" in choosing Walz, calling him "a strong, principled, and effective leader." Follow the blog below for the latest live updates and reactions to Harriss choice. Cover thumbnail photo: Andrew Harnik/Getty Images He lived on his boat, his slice of paradise. Then came Hurricane Debby. GULFPORT They stayed because their boats felt safest, because their boats are their homes. They stayed so theyd be there to respond if something went wrong. They stayed because, well, where else would they go? As Debby rapidly strengthened into a hurricane Sunday night, a tight-knit community who live aboard their vessels in Boca Ciega Bay hunkered down in hulls, anchored near Gulfport in southern Pinellas County. By Monday evening, many residents along Floridas Gulf Coast let out a collective exhale; the region had, once again, been spared the worst of a major storm. But the Boca Ciega Bay live-aboards were hit with heartbreak. Some boats were hurled onto the sand, tangled in mangroves and tossed akilter against the seawall. Others sank, livelihoods disappearing under churning waves. Then Brian J. Clough, 48, was found dead on his partially submerged sailboat. Debby barreled into the Big Bend region as a Category 1 on Monday, roughly 140 miles from the marine community that Captain Brian, as he was known, called home. Friends said his boat was his slice of Florida heaven. He is remembered for his quick wit, entrepreneurial spirit and how much he loved his little white dog, Daisy. He took her everywhere. She was rescued from the boat, now safe with a new home. We lost 20 boats and one soul, said Sean Buckmaster, a 56-year-old U.S. Army veteran dubbed the mayor of Boca Ciega Bay. The live-aboards are young and old, hardened sailors and adventure seekers. Some call it a way of life, others a necessity, a waterfront haven amid an affordable-housing crisis. The community spans from the Sunshine Skyway to Madeira Beach. The number of boats ebbs like the tide. Its unclear for how long Clough called it home. We dont keep records. There are no memberships, Buckmaster said. But if youre in our bay, youre family. As Debby approached, boaters once more debated: Stay or go? Eric Matos asked Clough to come ashore, he said, pleading with him on the phone. Matos is a lander. He lives on the shore, not the water. They met last year at Hurricane Eddies, a Gulfport bar where Clough was a regular, Daisy always by his side. They became fast friends, huddling around an outdoor table and chatting for hours about future plans in the sea breeze and under the wide Florida sky. Clough wanted to start a fishing charter. As the storm grew closer, he insisted on staying, Matos, 39, recalled. Then came the lashing rain, the howling winds, the pounding waves. Boats were thrown around like popcorn, anchors failing, ropes snapping. Some tore across the waterway, smashing into others. Then came word that Clough was missing. He anchored about 50 feet from Veterans Park, according to the Gulfport Police Department. Another boater saw his vessel partially sunk late Monday morning, according to police. The boater spotted Daisy but no sign of her owner. Local police and fire departments, the U.S. Coast Guard and civilian divers launched a rescue effort. Meanwhile, longtime land resident Kelly Wright handed out homemade beef stew to residents, passersby and those involved in the rescue from a nearby beach pavilion. Thats what we do in Gulfport, she said. We come together. Clough was found on his boat early Monday evening. The cause of death remains unclear, though a preliminary police investigation does not indicate foul play. Officers had yet to find any close, living relatives for Clough by Tuesday late morning; only a nephew and a smattering of distant family members in Arizona. Gulfport police used to have an officer dedicated to the bay. Theyd patrol the waters, handle vessel safety inspections and assist with storm preparation, Sgt. Thomas Woodman said. Then the money ran out. Storm after storm after storm, we see the same results, he said. Boats wash on shore, primarily because vessel owners are not properly preparing themselves. Debby has some boaters contemplating their futures, Buckmaster said. While most of them weathered the storm well, a few are grappling with the move to land. Still, there are those who rely on the waves to rock them to sleep, those who cant imagine a life without sitting on the bow, watching for dolphins. I never experienced true freedom until I was on the water, he said. As the tropical storm continued its slow march into Georgia on Monday night, a graveyard of punctured hulls and shredded sails dotted Gulfport Beach. From one boat, a tattered American flag flapped in the wind. Children ran along the sand, the bay lapping at their bare feet. The sky, cloudy for much of the day, erupted in pink and orange. And on the gun-metal waters of Boca Ciega Bay, boats bobbed. Tampa Bay Times hurricane coverage 2024 5 things to know about the 2024 hurricane season, according to forecasters. Forecasters predict extremely active 2024 hurricane season. Heres why. Could Tampa Bay flood insurance rise after a hurricane? A warning from Hurricane Ian Want to know what areas are flooding in Tampa Bay? Heres where to look. Checklists for building all kinds of storm kits. A voter in Alaska's special U.S. House primary election drops their ballot into a box on Saturday, June 11, 2022, as a poll worker observes. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon) A voter in Alaska's special U.S. House primary election drops their ballot into a box on Saturday, June 11, 2022, as a poll worker observes. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon) Twelve candidates are vying to reach the final four in the race for Alaskas U.S. House seat, and each has a different view of the states biggest need. Early and absentee voting is underway for the states Aug. 20 primary, and the four top vote-getters, regardless of political party, will advance to the November general election. Responding to a questionnaire from the Alaska Beacon, 10 of the 12 candidates offered their views of Alaskas biggest need, with most focusing on economic issues. Incumbent Democrat Mary Peltola said she views affordable and reliable energy as the states top need but believes the state can be energy independent if it intensifies oil and gas drilling while also upgrading the electrical transmission infrastructure along the Railbelt. During her first term in office, Peltola backed development of the Willow oil project on the North Slope and encouraged the federal government to direct millions toward electrical upgrades. Peltola said it would be unacceptable if Cook Inlet utilities are required to import liquefied natural gas, and said she is advocating additional energy legislation to address the problem. Republican challenger and Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom likewise said she would advocate for responsible legislation that unleashes Alaskas energy and natural resource potential while maintaining our natural order. She went a step further, saying Alaskas economy as a whole needs help, adding that she believes Alaska needs to get our economy out of the rut weve been in under Mary Peltola and Joe Biden. Alaska has the sixth-worst unemployment rate in the country and ranks 26th in job growth, according to figures published by the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development. This spring, it became the last state in the country to erase job losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic emergency in 2020. Employment in the state remains lower than it was in 2014. Fellow Republican challenger Nick Begich said Alaskas most pressing need is to address the high cost of living that affects all residents, particularly those in rural areas. He, like Dahlstrom and Begich, suggested that energy development is needed and offered multiple other solutions, including the elimination of the Jones Act for Alaska. That federal law requires shipping companies to use American-flagged ships to carry cargo between American ports. Repealing that law could lower costs for Alaskans, he said. Begich said the state needs expanded road and rail infrastructure and that more federal land should be opened for development. Nonpartisan candidate Samuel Claesson, who lists an Iowa address as his home, said housing is the states biggest need, writing, we have some of the highest costs of rent in the nation because of a lack of housing. Republican Jerry Heikes and Alaskan Independence Party candidate John Wayne Howe each suggested that the states biggest need is to have less federal government presence. Howe, repeating a long-held tenet of his party, said the states 1957 statehood vote was flawed and that the federal government is not a properly authorized governing body for Alaska. David Ambrose of Fairbanks also suggested that the state needs a separation of powers from the federal government over Alaskas ability to be independent from bureaucratic overreach. Lady Donna Dutchess, a nonpartisan candidate from Anchorage, said awareness is Alaskas biggest need, and that she believes there is corruption so widespread, that the citizens only recourse is to repent of past compliancy and call on the Most High God for guidance. Richard Grayson, representing the No Labels Party from an address in Arizona, said Alaskas biggest need is A designated day for moose to stay off the roads. I would ask Congress to designate a holiday called Moosemas. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) At a ceremony in Lackawanna County Monday, Congressman Matt Cartwright weighed in on the possibility of Governor Josh Shapiros name on the ticket. Cartwright has served the 8th district since 2013 and has worked closely alongside the fellow democrat. Political analyst weighs in on possible Democratic Vice Presidential picks Im kind of biased. Ive become close friends with Josh Shapiro, Ive campaigned with him, Ive worked with him. Without Josh Shapiro, our rail project would be dead in the water, so Im a big fan of his to start with, and Ive been pushing him without any embarrassment to be the vice presidential pick, I think for political reasons it would probably help too, Congressman Cartwright explained. Vice President Kamala Harris and her vice president pick will hold a campaign rally Tuesday in Philadelphia. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com. Burlington, VT A local man broke into an apartment on Pine Street early Monday morning. Officers claim that Mark Flanders, 43, of Burlington, broke into the empty apartment. The break-in was reported at about 4:03 a.m. A BPD officer responded with UVM police, and together they located Flanders and took him into custody. Officers claim that Flanders made statements about wanting to go to the Northwest State Correctional Facility. He has a criminal history in Vermont, with multiple of misdemeanor and assault convictions. Flanders was later released with a flash cite to go to court. Anyone with additional information can contact the BPD at (802) 658-2704. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) UPDATE (Aug. 6 @ 6:05 p.m.): Officials with BNSF confirmed that they plan to have two controlled blasts of the collapsed rail bridge over the Big Sioux River between North Sioux City and Sioux City. BNSF General Director Public Affairs Lena Kent told KCAU 9 that while a demolition wont occur until after they get a permit secured through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, they are planning for a controlled blast of the bridge on the South Dakota side of the river on August 16. They are also planning another controlled blast on the Iowa side on September 6. They added that they have already secured local permits for using charges to dismantle the rail bridge. North Sioux City residents speak out on flood response BNSF said they are beginning door-to-door contacts with residents and businesses withing a 1,000-foot perimeter of the area this week. The company also started conversations with local law enforcement and first responders to communicate the demolition plan and ensure public safety. As the company communicates with the cities of North Sioux City and Sioux City, the spokesperson said that more specifics on timing and local impact will be provided. The news of the controlled blasts come as the time for public comment on the companys planned to dismantle the rail bridge ended Monday. Kent said BNSF anticipates receiving a Section 408 permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the coming days regarding the water work and impact on the permanent levee. Crews are also working to complete other steps required before they can remove the bridge. Kent said that in addition to the controlled blasts, BNSF is taking other steps to construct a temporary ring levee to protect the community while they dismantle and recover the bridge on the South Dakota side of the river. This will come after the Corps approves their permit to shave off a small portion of the existing levee so the company can provide access to necessary equipment. Work to remove the bridge is expected to take five to six weeks, according to BNSFs request for permit to the Corps. Sioux City pools close for the season Sunday Read BNSFs full statement below: For several weeks we have been consulting with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and local levee sponsors on the removal plan for the BNSF bridge in the Big Sioux River at North Sioux City, SD and Sioux City, IA. While BNSF anticipates receiving the Section 408 permit in the coming days from the USACE relating to work in the waterway and impact to the permanent levee, BNSF is also working through all of the other steps required to begin the removal work, including providing notice to the community about how we will dismantle the failed bridge spans. Crews plan to conduct a controlled blast for demolition of the span on the South Dakota side of the river on August 16th, and on September 6th for the span on the Iowa side. Local permits are secured for using charges to help dismantle the structure, but demolition will not occur until after the USACE permit is secured. In addition to door-to-door contacts beginning this week with residents and businesses within a 1,000-foot perimeter of the project area, BNSF has begun conversations with local law enforcement and first responders to communicate the demolition plan and ensure public safety. We will communicate more specifics on timing of the blast operations and any other local impacts following additional conversations with the cities. Additional steps that are underway in preparation for the bridge span removals include the construction of a temporary levee, known as a ring levee, to provide protection to the community while the recovery process occurs. This levee is designed to provide the same level of protection as the permanent levee. Once the USACE permit is received, the plan is to shave off a small portion of the existing levee to allow the necessary equipment to access down to the river and remove the bridge spans. BNSF General Director Public Affairs Lena Kent Amy Lilly with the City of North Sioux City told KCAU 9 that BNSF will be hosting a meeting about the rail bridge with the city Tuesday or Wednesday. She was unable to provide further information detailing what the meeting is about or when the meeting will take place. There is one business that has a copy of the flyer that states there will be a controlled blast on the rail bridge over the Big Sioux River between North Sioux City and Sioux City. KCAU 9 visited multiple North Sioux City businesses in the 1,000 foot radius of where the controlled blast will take place. Of four businesses, one business, KindCare Dispensary, said a man stopped into the business Monday afternoon and handed them a flyer. They couldnt say who the man represented. The business showed KCAU 9 the flyer, which appears to be the same that was posted on the Missouri River Boat Clubs Facebook page. North Sioux City residents speak out on flood response The flyer states that a controlled blast will take place at 7 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 16. The flyer states it comes from Ames Construction out of Minnesota with a birds eye view of the area provided by DemTech based out of Missouri. Everyone within 1,000 feet of the blast that morning is asked to remain indoors from 6:30 a.m. to 7:15 a.m. The flyers states that roads in the area will be closed during the blast, Additionally, there will be security checkpoints in the area. The flyer appears to show that those security checkpoints will be located in North Sioux City on Military Road and River Drive. On the Iowa side of the river, there will be checkpoints on Military Road, Home Street, and also near the Sioux City Railroad Museum. There will also be checkpoints on the river. KCAU 9 has reached out to BNSF and Ames Construction about the controlled blast and has not heard back regarding it. The U.S. Corps of Engineers told KCAU 9 that as of around 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, they have no permit from BNSF on file for the destruction of the train bridge going over the Big Sioux River between North Sioux City and Sioux City. During our conversation with the Corps, they stated that due to the nature of the situation, its possible that there is a permit going through the process of being filed and accepted and the August 16 date may have been put out there by BNSF in anticipation of this permit being accepted by the Corps. USACE said that if there is a permit going through the system, it may make its way through within the next day or two, clearing BNSF for the demo on the anticipated date. KCAU 9 will continue to keep in touch with the Corps to get confirmation on if and when this permit is finalized. Other groups have confirmed that they have not been told about the alleged controlled blast of the rail bridge. City of Sioux City Communications & Public Engagement Specialist Anne Westra told KCAU 9 that the city is not aware of the event. Woodbury County Sheriffs Office Lt. Pat Hinrichsen also said that he has not been made aware of any controlled blast to take place. City council suspends part of Iowa code temporarily to help with hiring police A BSNF spokesperson told KCAU 9 that they are communicating with their team in the field regarding the alleged controlled blast. Officials with the Corps of Engineers told KCAU 9 while they wouldnt be directly involved with any work on the rail bridge, a permit would have to be filed through them requesting permission for a controlled blast. A flyer claiming that a controlled blast will take place on the rail bridge of the Big Sioux between North Sioux City and Sioux City has been circulating on social media recently. The photo of the flyer was posted on the Missouri River Boat Clubs Facebook page on Monday and claims that a construction company known as Ames Construction will be carrying out the controlled blast on August 16 at 7 a.m. The flyer reads, This notice is to inform you that a controlled blast will be conducted on the Rail Bridge over the Big Sioux River for demolition of the bridge. During the blast, everyone within 1,000 ft are asked to remain indoors. The blast is scheduled for 7:00 AM the morning of Friday August 16th. Remain indoors 6:30 7:30 AM. All roads within this area will also be closed during the blast. Security will be at checkpoints shown below morning of for assistance if needed. Please plan accordingly. The validity of this flyer remains up in the air as KCAU 9 has reached out to numerous organizations who either claim to be uninvolved or have little to no information on this blast. This includes the Missouri River Boat Club Chairman, the Sioux City Police Department, the North Sioux City Police Department,, Woodbury County Emergency Management, Union County Emergency Management, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). KCAU 9 has also reached out to the Union County Sheriffs Department, BNSF, and Ames Construction but has not received any information from these organizations. Officials at Monday nights North Sioux City Council Meeting also had no details on the controlled blast. The City of Sioux City also said they dont anything about the event. An official with the Woodbury County Sheriffs Office said they have not been made aware of any controlled blast to take place. The Boat Clubs post states that the flyer was delivered to businesses in North Sioux City by BNSF. The lack of awareness from local authorities raises the question of how exactly BNSF plans to close roads necessary to carry out the blast and how they plan to enforce residents remaining indoors during the listed times. USACE began seeking public input on the removal of the bridge in July with the input window having closed Monday. The train bridge collapsed in the overnight hours between June 23 and June 24 during the record flooding that hit Siouxland. This is a developing story. KCAU 9 will continue to provide updates as we learn more. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. The owner of Holiday Inn has called for calm to be restored after rioters attacked several of its UK hotels housing asylum seekers over the weekend. InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) said on Tuesday: This is a troubling and challenging situation, and we hope for calm to be restored as soon as possible. The safety and security of our colleagues and anyone staying in our hotels is always our priority. We continue to work closely with the authorities at a small number of properties, and the Home Office are in the best position to answer further questions. At least 10 police officers were injured, with one left unconscious, after a mob tried to storm a Holiday Inn Express hotel in Rotherham. A police officer extinguishes a fire during an anti-immigration demonstration outside the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham (Danny Lawson/PA) Hotel employees and residents, some of whom are asylum seekers, were terrified, but no injuries were reported, police said. A similar incident played out at a Holiday Inn hotel in Tamworth on Sunday evening, where reports suggested asylum seekers were also being housed, in a scene which saw fires, smashed windows and missiles being thrown at officers, Staffordshire Police said. The incidents over the weekend came one week on from the Southport stabbings as escalating violence continued in several cities across the country. The Prime Minister said on Monday that a standing army of specialist police officers is being assembled to crack down on rioting, as he called for perpetrators to be named and shamed. Sir Keir Starmer vowed to ramp up criminal justice after an emergency Cobra meeting was called in the wake of a sixth day of disorder which saw rioters storm hotels housing asylum seekers. Police at the Holiday Inn Express in Tamworth after a mob attacked it on Sunday (Jacob King/PA) So far, there have been 378 arrests since the violence broke out last week, with the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) warning the total was expected to rise each day. IHG made the statement as it reported interim results on Tuesday, when it said UK hotels filled rooms at a slightly better rate over the first six months of 2024 than the previous year, amid a broader growth in turnover across the group. The company saw revenue per available room (RevPAR), a key industry metric which measures a propertys ability to fill rooms, grow 2.5% across its UK estate. JEFFERSON TWP., Ohio (WDTN) If youve ever wanted to see the inside of a police cruiser or fire truck legally, of course today is your chance. Tuesday, Aug. 6 is National Night Out, where community members can talk with local police and fire departments. Several events are happening across the Miami Valley throughout the evening. Kettering Health Greene Memorial being replaced In Jefferson Township, community partners are coming together to put on a family-friendly event with food, games, music and first responder equipment. The event will run until 7 p.m. National Night Out is centered around getting to know the first responders that patrol local neighborhoods, and to strengthen the relationship with the community. With an increase in juveniles arrested with guns from 2020 to 2023 in Dayton, the Montgomery County Sheriffs Office is using this event to not only talk with the community but to reach out to at-risk youth to potentially deter them from going down a road of crime. Sometimes you wonder if you can actually get through, but you know, you can if youve reached the right people, said Sheriff Rob Streck. But yes, those kind of crimes, grand theft auto, all of this stuff is on the rise in our community. We know theres a lot of young people out there doing it. We want them to stop that, we want them to stay in a healthy lifestyle to where theyre not out committing crimes and putting themselves in danger every night. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. Longtime President and CEO of HACC plans to retire in July 2025 HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) The longtime president and CEO of HACC, Central Pennsylvanias Community College is retiring after more than a decade of serving. John J. Ski Sygielski, the longest-serving president in HACCs history, plans to retire on July 18, 2025, the college announced Tuesday. John Sygielski Sygielski became the seventh president of HACC in July 2011 and has earned multiple awards, including the Innovation of the Year Award by the League for Innovation in the Community College. Pennsylvania communities start canceling National Night Out due to storms Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Local Business Beat According to the colleges website, HACC plans to hold a celebratory event to honor Sygielski. More information on the event will be released in Spring 2025. HACC, Central Pennsylvanias Community College is the largest of Pennsylvanias 15 community colleges. HACC offers about 100 career and transfer associate degree, certificate, and diploma programs to approximately 12,000 students. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. Firefighters came to the rescue of a deer that became trapped in hole on the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point campus. Photo courtesy of the Stevens Point Fire Department/Facebook Aug. 6 (UPI) -- Firefighters in Wisconsin came to the rescue of a deer that fell into a hole in the ground on a college campus and couldn't climb back out. The Stevens Point Fire Department said on social media that crews were called to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point when a "woodland friend" near Lot J "got in over their head." Firefighters "were able to restrain, secure, and free the deer from its predicament," the post said. The department shared a photo of the rescue, saying it was the only picture taken "as the deer was MORE than excited to be out and safely reunited with its kind." Aug. 6 (UPI) -- Firefighters in Wales came to the rescue of three lambs that wandered into a culvert tunnel and became trapped for multiple days. The Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said the lambs were believed to have been trapped in the passage underneath a road in Llandovery, Carmarthenshire, for two to three days. Crews from the Llandovery fire station responded to the location and worked together with the owner of the lambs to locate the animals. Firefighters used long-reach rescue poles to fish the animals out of the tunnel in a rescue operation that lasted about three hours. What to do if you lose power during Debby CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)- Power outages are being reported across the Lowcountry as Tropical Storm Debby dumps heavy rain along the coast. As a reminder, stay away from any downed or damaged power lines during and after a storm as they could still be energized. Heres what to do if you lose power: Dominion Energy The company recommends that customers download the Dominion Energy app, which is the quickest way to report outages and view the outage map to stay updated with restoration efforts. You can view the outage map here. You can also report any outages by calling 1-888-333-4465. Santee Cooper Santee Cooper recommends you take the following steps if you experience a power outage: Check your circuit panel or fuse box. If you have circuit breakers, flip the main breaker switch to the off position, and then back to the on position. If you have fuses, check your box and replace any fuses that have blown. Check the outside disconnect below your meter (not all buildings have an outside disconnect). Check with your neighbors to see if they have power. You can report any outages online or by calling 888-769-7688. You will need to provide your account name, location, telephone number, the nature of the problem, and any additional information that may be relevant. You can view the outage map here. Berkeley Electric Cooperative Take the following steps if you lose power: Verify your entire house is out. Check fuses or breakers. If you have determined your home is out of power, unplug any appliances you were using when the power went out. Leave a light on so you know when power is restored. You can view the outage map here. To report an outage call 1-888-253-4232. If the outage is widespread, phone lines may be busy when you call. When you report an outage, provide as many details as possible. Edisto Electric Cooperative You can view the outage map here. To report an outage call 1-800-433-3292. __ Be sure to download the News 2 app to receive weather alerts, breaking news, and watch News 2 live on your phone if you lose power during the storm. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. DENVER (KDVR) Someone in Thornton is a million dollars richer thanks to the Colorado Lottery. On July 31, a lotto ticket purchased in Snowmass hit the $5.7 million jackpot, and less than a week later, Colorado has another millionaire. According to the Colorado Lottery, a Colorado Lotto+ ticket hit the jackpot again on Aug. 3 for a grand prize of $1,107,291 or a cash option of $553,645. While the $5.7 million lotto ticket was sold at a store more than three hours away from Denver, the million-dollar ticket was sold just up the road, and it could be yours. The Colorado Lottery said the ticket was sold at the King Soopers at 13525 Quebec St. in Thornton. So, check your tickets; you could be a million dollars richer. The winning numbers for the Aug. 3 Colorado Lotto+ drawing are 4-14-17-24-28-32. Is it yours? $5.7M winning lottery ticket sold in Snowmass The Colorado Lottery said they are still waiting for the person who purchased the jackpot-winning ticket in Snowmass to come forward but dont worry, you have time. The winner has 180 days after the drawing to claim the ticket. If they dont, the money goes into the beneficiary fund where it is distributed to Great Outdoors Colorado, the Conservation Trust fund and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The Colorado Lotto+ has created hundreds of millionaires, according to the lottery, as the jackpot starts at $1 million and grows until its hit. The odds of hitting the jackpot are 1 in 3.84 million. The next drawing is on Wednesday with the jackpot sitting at an estimated $1.1 million. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill said Monday she will ask a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit parents have brought to stop a new state law that requires the Ten Commandments to be posted in every public school classroom. (Piper Hutchinson | Louisiana Illuminator) Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill said Monday she will ask a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit parents have brought to stop a new state law that requires the Ten Commandments to be posted in every public school classroom. Murrill is expected to file a brief arguing the lawsuit is premature, as schools are not yet displaying the religious text. She argues that means the plaintiffs cannot yet show they are harmed. According to Article III of the U.S. Constitution, to bring a federal lawsuit, a plaintiff does not have to prove that they have been harmed if they can prove that harm is imminent. The plaintiffs in the case, who are Jewish, Christian, Unitarian Universalist and non-religious, assert the new law will violate their First Amendment rights. Permanently posting the Ten Commandments in every Louisiana public-school classroom rendering them unavoidable unconstitutionally pressures students into religious observance, veneration, and adoption of the states favored religious scripture, their lawsuit reads. The law, which the Legislature approved earlier this year and Republican Gov. Jeff Landry signed into law, requires a specific version of the Ten Commandments, one thats popular among evangelical denominations, be posted prominently in every public K-12, college and university classroom. The U.S. Supreme Court overturned a similar law in Kentucky in 1980. Along the way, Republicans have argued they want the scripture in classrooms not for religious reasons but because they believe American law is based on the Ten Commandments, referring to Moses as the original lawmaker. The Ten Commandments are religious directives in the Bibles Old Testament from the book of Exodus. Scholars disagree about when the commandments were written and by whom. Various versions of the text appear in different translations of the Bible and the Torah. The rules come from the story of the Hebrew prophet Moses, a key figure in the Abrahamic religions who was said to have been given them by God after he led the Israelites, a religious and ethnic minority, from enslavement under an oppressive Egyptian pharaoh. When asked about the impacts of the law on members of religious minorities, Landry advised students not to look at the poster. I think weve forgotten in this country that democracy actually means majority rule, Landry said. Murrill revealed posters at Mondays press conference that she believes comply with the new law and pass constitutional muster. One such poster displayed the Ten Commandments and an image of actor Charles Heston portraying Moses in the movie The Ten Commandments alongside a picture of Broadway actor/writer Lin-Manuel Miranda playing Alexander Hamilton in the hit musical Hamilton, over lyrics from a song in the musical, The Ten Duel Commandments. The song, which is sung right before Hamilton is shot and killed by Vice President Aaron Burr in the musical, gives advice for partaking in a flintlock pistol duel. The lyrics seem to violate one of the Biblical Ten Commandments: Thou shalt not kill. Others posters feature pictures and quotes from figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., former Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson. Others depict memes and other references to the Ten Commandments in law, government and culture. Murrill noted her office is handling the litigation internally and is not paying an outside law firm to represent the state. Both Murrill and Landry have expressed that the displays could improve discipline in schools. Landry made headlines last month when he suggested that if the Ten Commandments were displayed in Thomas Crooks classroom, he may not have attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a July 13 campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, killing one attendee and seriously injuring two others. Secret Service agents returned fire, killing Crooks. Louisiana schools, except for those in a handful of districts where the law is temporarily blocked, have until Jan. 1, 2025, to post the Ten Commandments displays. This story was originally produced by the Louisiana Illuminator which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Louisiana becomes first US state to legalize surgical castration of child rapists BATON ROUGE, La. (WTVO) Convicted child abusers in Louisiana could face surgical, rather than chemical, castration after a new law was approved in the statehouse. The law allows for judges to order offenders, who commit a sex crime against a child under 13 years old, to be castrated. According to WAFB, the law is not limited to male offenders. Surgical castration involves removing either the testicles or ovaries, and irreversible procedure. At the end of the day I hope that kids know that they can feel safer because there will be some real tough penalty actions that will occur when somebody violates their innocence, said Sen. Regina Barrow (D-Baton Rouge). Barrow said she hoped the threat of losing a part of ones body would work as a deterrent for potential sex abusers. The procedure would be set to happen less than a week after they complete their prison sentence. Failure to show up to the appointment could result in an additional sentence. Louisiana becomes only the fourth place in the world to allow surgical castration, aside from Madagascar, the Czech Republic, and a state in Nigeria. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. Louisiana Governor advises parents upset about Ten Commandments display in schools to tell the child not to look Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry offered some advice to parents unhappy about the Ten Commandments being displayed in their childs school - Tell the child not to look at it. During a press conference on Monday, Landry dismissed any potential criticisms about the state requiring public schools to display the religious directives in every classroom. I dont see what the whole big fuss is about, Landry said, calling Moses the original lawgiver. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry told reporters on Monday that parents who find the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms offensive could tell the child not to look at it. (AP) When asked what he believes parents against the new law should do, Landry said if they find them so [offensive], then they should tell the child not to look at it. Louisiana became the first state to require public schools to display the religious text in June after the Republican-dominated legislature passed the law with the help of a handful of Democrats. But Landry lambasted those challenging the law, claiming the bill had bipartisan support from both sides and should therefore be respected. I think weve forgotten in this country that democracy actually means majority rules, Landry said. That does not mean when you dont like something you have a right to impose that, which the majority likes. This year, Landry has vetoed 27 bills that passed in the Louisiana state legislature including one that would have prohibited the use of deepfake technology in political advertising. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill says her office will ask a judge to throw out lawsuits challenging the states new law mandating classrooms display the Ten Commandments. (AP) Louisianas new law immediately faced legal challenges from civil liberties groups and parents who argued that the mandate pressured students to follow Christianity. Standing beside Landry at the press conference on Monday, State Attorney General Liz Murrill said her office is seeking to have the lawsuit thrown out. While addressing concerns and questions about the new mandate, Landry and Murrill showed models of what the posters could look like. The law requires public school classrooms to display the commandments in large, easily readable font on 11 x 14-inch posters at a minimum. It also must include a four-paragraph context statement. One example showed a picture of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg alongside a quote from when she was in 8th grade when she cited the Ten Commandments as one of the four great documents that benefitted humanity. Another compared the ideals of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. to Moses. One, titled The House of Representatives & The Lawgivers featured a photo of Speaker of the House Mike Johnson. Louisianas law is part of a larger Christian Nationalist movement that is targeting education. In June, Oklahoma school officials mandated that classrooms teach the Bible and Ten Commandments. That new rule is also facing pushback. Louisiana governor says kids can just not look at Ten Commandments, files to dismiss challenge Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry (R) said in a press conference Monday that parents who are unhappy with the Ten Commandments getting posted in public school classrooms should tell their child not to look at them. Landry announced the state was moving to dismiss the legal challenge that has been brought by civil rights advocacy groups after he signed a law mandating posters of the Ten Commandments be placed in a large, easily readable font in every public classroom in the state. When asked by a reporter what parents who are neither religious nor happy with the decision should do, he replied that if they are offended by the Ten Commandments, tell your child not to look at them. Really and truly, I dont see what the whole big fuss is about, Landry said. The law was immediately challenged by a group of parents of various faith backgrounds and by civil liberty groups who argue the measure violates the separation of church and state. The law violates the separation of church and state and is blatantly unconstitutional. The First Amendment promises that we all get to decide for ourselves what religious beliefs, if any, to hold and practice, without pressure from the government. Politicians have no business imposing their preferred religious doctrine on students and families in public schools, the American Civil Liberties Union said. Louisiana officials had earlier agreed to delay implementing the posters as the legal challenge plays out. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (Bloomberg) -- President Nicolas Maduro asked his supporters to remove WhatsApp, the Meta-owned messaging app, from their phones, as he said its being used by fascists to spread violence. Most Read from Bloomberg Speaking under the rain at a rally called by the ruling partys youth branch, Maduro called for a voluntary, progressive and radical withdraw from WhatsApp. He said he was instead switching to Telegram and the Chinese messaging app WeChat. Through WhatsApp they are threatening the military family, the police, the street leaders, the community, everyone who doesnt declare themselves in favor of fascism, he said. On Sunday, Maduro also said TikTok and Instagram were being used to promote hate and vowed to regulate their use. Maduros attack on social media platforms comes on the heels of a wave of repression by his regime against any resistance to his self-declared win in the presidential election. He has repeatedly referred to opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and her stand-in candidate Edmundo Gonzalez as fascists, and blamed them for the protests that ensued after they published documents showing his election win fraudulent. Maduro had asked Venezuelas high court to review the results and on Monday, the head of the electoral authority, Elvis Amoroso, handed over the electoral documentation, according to a transmission on state television. Neither Amoroso nor court judges said whether the documents contained table-by-table tabulations of the results like the ones released by the opposition. Earlier on Monday, Public Prosecutor Tarek William Saab announced he was opening an investigation against Machado and Gonzalez, after they published a statement on Monday calling for the military and police officers to side with the people. Maduros request for the removal of WhatsApp is a quick aboutface, after having relied on social media to help soften his image ahead of the July 28 election. The last message he shared through WhatsApp was on July 30, saying that the people launched into the streets against violence and fascism... God is with us... Peace will win. At the youth rally, Maduro issued another warning to dissidents, reminding them of the governments security operation Tun-Tun named for the knock-knock sound on peoples doors. Knock, knock, whos there? he said, singing to the tune of a popular Christmas song. People of peace. Dont be a crying baby, youll go to Tocoron. Tocoron is one of the maximum-security prisons Maduro promised to send protesters to last week. He has said that security forces have arrested more than 2,000 people so far. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Former President Donald Trumps current spate of mean-spiritedness shows that hes really feeling the pressure of the 2024 election, New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman suggested on Monday. Lashing out is what the Republican nominee does when he feels like hes under threat, hes cornered or threatened, Haberman told CNNs Dana Bash. Trump this weekend launched blistering attacks on Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, his wife and other Republicans in the state. Haberman acknowledged that Trump often is very mean in his attacks but said recently its been harder to discern because he hasnt been as public. The attack on Kemp, however, was sort of more evocative of January 2021 than anything that we have seen in the last year, said Haberman in video shared online by Mediaite. Nobody needs to wonder whether he is concerned about the state of this race against Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, Haberman added. Just look at what hes saying on the trail. Related... AUGUSTA, Maine Adam Lemire of Gardiner was selected Monday as the winner of the Maine State Flag Redesign Contest. I am delighted by the number and quality of the submissions and the myriad of creative ways that everyone interpreted the law, said Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. It is important to note that most of the designs meet the letter of the law and will continue to represent our state, the Pine Tree State, beautifully in homes and dooryards on caps, flags and more." Bellows said Lemire's design stood out as a "beautiful, faithful representation of an Eastern White Pine tree." Adam Lemire of Gardiner was selected Monday as the winner of the Maine State Flag Redesign Contest. Lemire is pictured with Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. Should voters approve Question 5 in November, the design will become the state flag. Im honored and excited to have my design chosen as the model for the potential new state flag, said Lemire. For my submission, I thought it appropriate to select Maines state tree, the Eastern White Pine. The design is based on those I observed in Capital Park and Viles Arboretum while on walks with my 3-year-old son. The final design is primarily based on an Eastern White Pine in Governors Grove at Viles Arboretum. There are 16 branches because there are 16 counties in Maine. York Miss Flame 2024: Ava Peltz makes history as first firefighter to win crown More than 400 submissions were made to the contest, coming from 42 different states as well as some submissions from abroad. Maine State Archivist Kate McBrien, Deputy Secretary Lelia DeAndrade and Deputy Secretary Joann Bautista, Gerald Talbot, Dr. Chandra Bhimull and retired journalist Bill Green aided Bellows in reviewing submissions and selecting the finalists. Also helping were original bill sponsor Sean Paulhus, D-Bath, and legislators Sen. Rick Bennett, R-Oxford, Sen. Tim Nangle, D-Windham, Rep. Caleb Ness, R-Fryeburg, and Rep. Maureen Terry, D-Gorham. For symbols like our state flag to have meaning, they must bring people together - they must unite us, said Bennett. I congratulate Secretary Bellows for her understanding of this in soliciting the participation of the people of Maine and bringing together a committee representing the breadth of background, identity, and party to help her make this important decision. It was fun and meaningful, and I was honored to be a part of this historic, inclusive process. More: Kennebunks Franciscan Guest House to become Canticle Hotel in major overhaul The flag question will be Question 5 on voters state ballot in November, reading, Do you favor making the former state flag, replaced as the official flag of the State in 1909 and commonly known as the Pine Tree Flag, the official flag of the State? No design will be pictured on the ballot itself. Im honored to be part of this process, said Nangle, chair of the State and Local Government Committee. Our flag is something every Mainer should be proud of, and I look forward to seeing what Mainers across our state choose. The rules and design brief for the contest adhered to the law passed last year: An Act to Restore the Former State of Maine Flag. Should voters approve of Maine returning to a flag like the state flag from 1901 to 1908, the law requires the state flag to be: Buff, charged with the emblem of the State, a pine tree proper, in the center, and the North Star, a mullet of 5 points, in blue in the upper corner; the star to be equidistant from the hoist and the upper border of the flag, the distance from the 2 borders to the center of the star being equal to about 1/4 of the hoist, this distance and the size of the star being proportionate to the size of the flag. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Adam Lemire wins Maine State Flag Redesign Contest "This is truly a major moment." That was the message Dream City founder and Executive Director Frederick Newell shared at a groundbreaking for a $3 million renovation of the organization's south Iowa City facility. The nonprofit, first founded in 2012, "began as a vision of hope and change," Newell said. Dream City aims to help underserved children and young adults throughout the Iowa City community. The organization strives to "inspire and empower communities through advocacy, arts, and community development, ensuring that every individual, especially the youth and their families, receives the support and resources necessary to thrive," according to its website. Newell noticed a community of young minorities that were struggling to find their place. "At just the age of 23 years old, I was driven by a troubling reality," Newell said. "Too many young black and brown boys in our community were growing up without fathers and the opportunities available to them and their families felt like they were so limited." Newell knew something had to be done. Over the decade-plus that Dream City has been a part of the Iowa City community, Newell and his colleagues have established programs they felt were sorely missed in the youth community. "I believe in the power of change through advocacy, art, wellness, sharing connections through community building," Newell said. "But over the years, Dream City continued to grow into something greater than I ever could have imagined. Through our youth leadership programs, performing arts initiatives, hope and wellness efforts, and our fatherhood programs, we have served over 500 families, more than 1,000 youth, and hundreds of fathers." The groundbreaking ceremony, held Aug. 2 in front of a large crowd of long-time members of Dream City like Newell and his family, would not have been possible without allies and community leaders like Johnson County Supervisor Royceann Porter and Iowa City Mayor Bruce Teague, Newell said. He thanked more than 20 people throughout his remarks. More: As ag downturn, layoffs continue, Iowa farmland sees first drop in value in five years A crowd gathers for the Dream City groundbreaking Friday, Aug. 2, 2024 at 611 Southgate Ave. in Iowa City, Iowa. Young entrepreneur grew up with Dream City Many of Dream City's past, present and future success stories attended the ceremony as well. David Robinson, a 24-year-old Iowa City High School graduate, is one of those triumphs. Robinson is the owner of Simple Vending LLC, an ATM and vending machine company that serves businesses across Iowa, from Des Moines to the Iowa City and Cedar Rapids corridor. Robinson credited the tenacious work of his parents and his second family at Dream City for shaping him into the man he is today. Robinson felt "a lack of representation of my people" when he moved from Chicago's westside to Iowa City before he found Dream City. He felt as if he could grow as a person, building the foundation for his future. Robinson has spent half of his life 12 years connected to the organization. Newell asked the crowd to welcome his "little brother" during introductions last week. "Dream City has played a crucial role in my development as far as connecting with people, being a part of a community and understanding that we have a voice when it comes down to this environment," Robinson said. Iowa City Mayor Bruce Teague speaks at the Dream City Entreprenurial Hub groundbreaking ceremony Friday, Aug. 2, 2024 in Iowa City, Iowa. More: EPA concludes cleanup oversight for explosion, fire at C6-Zero's Marengo factory Development part of Iowa City's Inclusive Economic Development grants The $3 million renovations to the Dream City home, sometimes affectionately referred to as "Big Blue," will transform the interior and exterior of the building at 611 Southgate Ave. into an "entrepreneurial hub," according to a release. Renovations will add a commercial kitchen and space for events while upgrading and renovating classrooms and offices. The organization envisions the renovation as a "collaborative nexus," providing the resources, services and programming to children and young adults who would not otherwise have access to such a space. "This hub for business entrepreneurs, those that are already doing some business, those that want to grow and those that have an idea," Teague said. "This is the place where they'll be able to come to make it a reality." The expansion is funded by the City of Iowa City's American Rescue Plan Act, specifically through the Inclusive Economic Development grant program. This spring, the Iowa City City Council selected Dream City and several other area businesses as grant recipients. Newell believes Dream City can help grow an already thriving Iowa City community. "We envision a future where these businesses will become the backbone of (the) local economy, driving growth and prosperity for all," Newell said. "As we embark on this next chapter, our vision is clear. We aim to have the same, if not greater, impact serving the entrepreneurs and small businesses in Iowa City. We are committed to creating a vibrant ecosystem where every person, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to succeed." Dream City Executive Director Frederick Newell, center, along with Iowa City and Johnson County representative break ground Friday, Aug. 2, 2024 at 611 Southgate Ave. Iowa City, Iowa. More: One dead, four injured in Sunday evening crash along Highway 1 near Solon Ryan Hansen covers local government and crime for the Press-Citizen. He can be reached at rhansen@press-citizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @ryanhansen01. This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Iowa City's Dream City breaks ground on $3 million entrepreneurial hub VERSAILES, Ohio (WDTN) An area airport is set to receive some major upgrades. According to U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), $83,142 from the Department of Transportations Federal Aviation Administration has been set aside to perform upgrades to the Darke County Airport in Versailles. Alice Cooper visits Alice Scooper before Huber Heights concert As a part of the funding, the airport will undergo construction of a new parking lot. A terminal at the airport is also set to be replaced. Ohio airports are vital infrastructure supporting travel and commerce in our state, Brown said. This investment will enhance safety and operations at the Darke County Airport and improve travel for Ohio families and businesses. The locations website shows the site has a 24/7 terminal, access to aviation fuel and a courtesy car and more. This embedded content is not available in your region. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. German fashion house Hugo Boss has completed the divesture of its Russian business to its wholesale partner Stockmann. The two companies reached an agreement for the deal in April 2024. According to Russian news agency Interfax, the transaction was recorded in the Unified State Register of Legal Entities on 2 August. Hugo Boss was quoted by Reuters as saying; "We can confirm that our Russian subsidiary has been sold to Stockmann JSC a company belonging to one of Hugo Boss's long-standing wholesale partners in the country." The government subcommission for foreign investment had greenlit the sale of Hugo Boss to Stockmann, as reported by Interfax, which cited Russia Deputy Industry and Trade Minister Viktor Yevtukhovs statement in the spring of 2024. It is anticipated that the retailer's stores in Russia will reopen in the third quarter of the year following the completion of the deal. Financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed. It is known that Russia requires foreign entities to sell their assets at a minimum discount of 50%. The move comes after Hugo Boss halted its retail activities in Russia in March 2022, in response to the invasion of Ukraine. The suspension included a halt to e-commerce activities and advertising within the Russian market, as reported by Reuters. According to Russias corporate database, Stockmann now owns 100% of Hugo Boss Rus, which is valued at Rbs40m ($470,588). Hugo Boss faced criticism for continuing to supply goods to Russia from groups such as B4Ukraine, a coalition urging Western companies to cut ties. "In terms of our wholesale business, we were fulfilling the contractual obligations to our partners. In this context, Hugo Boss is and has been complying with existing EU sanctions at all times," Hugo Boss stated in April 2024. "Hugo Boss completes divesture of Russian business to Stockmann" was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Man accused of murdering pregnant Dayton woman, teen enters plea DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) The man accused of murdering a pregnant woman and teen in Dayton in May appeared in court Tuesday morning. Cunigan is accused of murdering 32-year-old Precious Taste, her unborn fetus and a teen on Shaftesbury Road in May. He was eventually found and taken into custody in the Cleveland area. Coroner IDs 2 found dead in south Dayton home During arraignment, Nicole Cunigan, Jr. 32, of Dayton, had a not guilty plea entered on his behalf. A $1 million cash bond was also set in Cunigans case. On Aug. 1, Cunigan was indicted by a Montgomery County Grand Jury on numerous charges related to the deaths. He is scheduled to return to court on Monday, Aug. 19, for a scheduling conference. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. Man accused of stealing New Haven police cruiser with officer inside faces judge NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) The man accused of stealing a police cruiser with an officer inside and crashing into a church appeared in New Haven Superior Court on Tuesday. Stacey Footman, 49, has been charged with second-degree larceny, second-degree kidnapping, assault of a public safety personnel, second-degree criminal trover and interfering with an officer. The incident, which was captured on surveillance video, unfolded Sunday night. It started outside the departments substation on Congress Avenue, where Footman allegedly approached the cruiser with an officer inside. Man accused of stealing New Haven police cruiser with officer inside The suspect then allegedly yelled at the officer to get out of the car. Before he could, police said Footman got into the drivers seat and took off. The officer pulled the steering wheel, causing the cruiser to crash into a church on Congress Avenue. Watch the surveillance footage of the moment below: The officer was injured but is expected to return to work in a few days. This incident reinforces the unpredictable and dangerous nature of police work, New Haven Police Union President Florencio Cotto said. It also highlights the professionalism and restraint displayed by our officers in the face of imminent danger. Footman has a lengthy criminal history dating back to the early 90s, according to police. New Haven police said hes been arrested more than 80 times. Mr. Footman expressed to me that he is working through some psychological issues, and this conduct as you can tell is mental health and addiction-related, Footmans public defender said. The judge set Footmans bond at $300,000. Hes due back in court on Aug. 29. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. Man allegedly rapes woman after asking for directions in the Bronx: NYPD Man allegedly rapes woman after asking for directions in the Bronx: NYPD MOTT HAVEN, The Bronx (PIX11) A man is accused of raping a woman in the Bronx on Monday, according to the NYPD. It happened near Bergen Avenue and East 149th Street in Mott Haven around 1 a.m. A 35-year-old woman was walking when she was approached by the suspect, who asked her for directions, according to authorities. More Local News The man then allegedly raped the woman, per police. He fled the scene going eastbound on East 149th Street toward Brook Avenue. The victim was taken to NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln. The suspect is described as around 6 feet tall. He was last seen wearing a black shirt with a multicolored design on the front, black pants, black shoes and was carrying a dark-colored backpack. The Bronx Special Victims Squad is investigating the incident. Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. Man arrested for alleged sexual assault on minor in Chowchilla, police say Man arrested for alleged sexual assault on minor in Chowchilla, police say CHOWCHILLA, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) A 40-year-old man was arrested in Chowchilla for alleged sexual assault on a minor, according to the Chowchilla Police Department. Police say on Aug. 1, officers responded to a call for a sexual assault in Chowchilla. Upon arrival, officers contacted the juvenile who had suffered injuries from the assault. According to police, the victim was taken to Valley Childrens Hospital for treatment and underwent surgery due to the injuries sustained during the incident. During the investigation, officials were able to identify the suspect as 40-year-old Arthur Dean Knapp from Chowchilla with help from the Madera County Sheriffs Office. 40-year-old Arthur Dean Knapp from Chowchilla (image courtesy Madera County Sheriffs Office) Police say detectives were able to watch the residence where the suspect resided. As he was leaving he was arrested by detectives. According to police, Knapp has a long history of violence and arrests. Knapp was interviewed and booked in the Madera County Jail for suspicion of attempted homicide and rape. Jail records show that Knapp was arrested on suspicion of: Rape by force or fear of immediate injury Attempted murder Person who commits assault by means of force, great bodily injury Violation of parole Threaten crime with intent to terrorize Officials say they will not be identifying the victim, or releasing details about their gender or age. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47. LANCASTER, Pa. (WHTM) A man was arrested in connection to a stabbing that occurred in Lancaster County late last month. According to the Lancaster City of Police, a man arrived at a hospital with a 7-inch laceration to his neck on July 27, 2024, at 2:07 a.m. Police say the victim claimed he and his friends were leaving a bar near the North Queen Street parking garage when a friend noticed the victims neck bleeding, but no one saw what happened. Man injured after apparent Lancaster stabbing Despite no eyewitness accounts of the stabbing, advancements have been made in the investigation. Police said that Syeen Hill, 44, was arrested in connection to the incident on Monday, August 5, at 4:12 p.m. The Lancaster Bureau of Police says Hill is being charged with Criminal Attempt Homicide, Aggravated Assault, Possession of Instruments of Crime, Terroristic Threats, and Recklessly Endangering another Person. Police say the victims injuries were non-life-threatening, and the victim was treated at a local hospital. Police are encouraging anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Detective Ryan Burgett at 717-719-4484 Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A man suspected of a Christmas Eve break-in at a Washington County museum in 2023 was arrested in late July as authorities continue to hunt for missing pieces of gold and minerals snatched from the exhibit. On June 27, 2024, Clackamas County Sheriffs Office arrested the suspect, identified as 33-year-old Vincent Charles Roberts, after investigators pursued leads spanning several Oregon counties and into Vancouver, Washington to find him. Investigators said they were able to track him down after they found some items believed to be stolen from the Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals exhibits at a precious metals buyer in the Salem area. Oregon State University captures first-ever images of ship striking shark Roberts arrest comes after his May 2024 indictment by a Washington County grand jury on several charges including second-degree burglary, criminal mischief, aggravated theft, and theft, along with a warrant for his arrest. During the early morning break-in, Roberts allegedly smashed a window with a sledgehammer before climbing into the museum on Northwest Groveland Drive in unincorporated Washington County, authorities said. Deputies responded to the break-in alarm around 2:20 a.m. and found a broken window leading into the building and footprints heading south from the museum, WCSO said after the 2023 burglary. Deputies immediately set up containment in the area and attempted a K9 track, but the individual managed to escape. WATCH: Burglary suspect breaks into Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals The sheriffs office added that Deputies searched the museum with the help of museum staff, where they discovered a significant theft from a large display case containing numerous gold items. The total value of the missing items is not being reported at this time. They found that several of the display cases had been smashed in and a substantial quantity of minerals and/or gold were taken from the museum, said Deputy David Huey. Its like a piece of Oregon history thats just gone. Authorities said many historical gold display items have not been recovered, noting the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about the burglary is asked to contact the Washington County Sheriffs Office. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) A 29-year-old man who reportedly stole a car that had an 8-month-old baby sleeping inside was arrested Monday. The baby was not hurt and reunited safely with her mother. This is a very unusual situation and we are all grateful for the positive outcome, said Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown. Our officers and detectives started doing everything they could to find this missing child. This case should serve as a reminder of the dedication that police officers and sheriff deputies across Utah have to keeping our communities safe. The suspect, Dimitri Saliba, will be booked into the Salt Lake County Metro Jail on a charge of theft of a motor vehicle. The case will be reviewed by the Salt Lake County District Attorneys Office. The arrest was the result of a coordinated effort between the Salt Lake City Police Department, South Salt Lake Police Department, and Salt Lake County Sheriffs Office. At 2:16 p.m. on Monday, police received a call from a woman saying that someone stole a car with her 8-month-old baby inside near 100 North and 1300 West. Detectives with the Salt Lake City Police Departments Auto Theft Unit used license plate reader technology to find the cars last known location and emergency dispatchers worked to provide information about the case to other law enforcement throughout the valley. Police said they believe Saliba stole the car while it was left running in a driveway as the childs mother was picking up her other kids. When Saliba realized a baby was in the backseat, he reportedly drove to the Salt Lake County Sheriffs Office, got out of the car, handed someone the baby, and admitted he had just stolen the car. The person he handed the baby to was an off-duty deputy assigned to the sheriffs office who immediately secured the baby and ordered Saliba to get on the ground. A South Salt Lake police officer who was in a nearby parking lot responded and assisted the off-duty deputy in taking Saliba into custody until the Salt Lake City Police arrived. The Salt Lake City Police Department would like to recognize the work of its officers and detectives along with the quick action of the off-duty sheriffs deputy and the South Salt Lake police officer who took the suspect into custody while protecting the baby, SLCPD said in a press release. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. Man arrested on warrants for aggravated assault with deadly weapon, burglary of habitation Man arrested on warrants for aggravated assault with deadly weapon, burglary of habitation EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A 46-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday, Aug. 6, on two active personal-recognizance bond warrants for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and burglary of habitation, according to the El Paso County Constable Office Precinct Three. The El Paso County Constables Office says Stephen Vincent Guerra, 46, was located at the 3200 block of Orkney and was placed into custody. Guerra was booked into the El Paso County Jail under a total bond of $200,000. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. LEONARDTOWN, Md. (DC News Now) The St. Marys Sheriffs Office (SMSO) said a man is facing several charges after he allegedly broke into a home and stabbed two women on Aug. 3. On Saturday, around 4:45 a.m., deputies were called to the 21000 block of Ronald Drive for a stabbing. While en route, duties were notified that the suspect and the two women knew each other. Once on the scene, the victims told deputies that 28-year-old Terek Demaury Ross allegedly broke into their home and grabbed a knife. He then stabbed one of them multiple times before she escaped and called 911. 5-year-old boy killed in Waldorf bounce house incident identified as local flag football player Deputies said Ross then attacked and stabbed the second woman several times. She also escaped and called for help. During that time, Ross stole one of the victims cars and drove away, according to SMSO. As a result, the SMSO notified local authorities. Deputies with the Calvert County Sheriffs Office located Ross driving north on Maryland Route 4. Officers apprehended him and transferred him into the custody of the SMSO. Both women were taken to the hospital and were in stable condition. Deputies charged Ross with two counts of Attempted First-Degree Murder, two counts of Attempted Second-Degree Murder, two counts of First-Degree Assault and other related charges. Authorities took him to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. CHICAGO An Ashburn man faces attempted murder and aggravated battery charges related to a hatchet attack at a South Side McDonalds over the weekend that left two women and an 18-year-old man seriously injured. Jermaine Allen, 24, faces three counts each of attempted murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated battery to cause great bodily harm in connection with the stabbing at the restaurant, located at 7832 S. Western Ave., according to court records. Allen allegedly demanded free food from the victims around 8:30 a.m. Sunday and started striking victims with a hatchet when they refused, Chicago police said. The teen and one of the women were left with deep lacerations and the third woman suffered a skull fracture along with serious cuts, according to court records. Police said they arrested Allen a few hours after the Sunday stabbing at a bus stop a short distance from the restaurant. Cook County Judge Caroline Glennan-Goodman ordered Allen held in detention while he awaits trial during a hearing Tuesday afternoon, court records show. Allen is next set to return to court on Friday. ____ A Rock Hill man who already faces up to life in prison from the largest fentanyl seizure in York County history allegedly worked another drug conspiracy while locked up in jail, according to federal indictments and prosecutors. Timothy Markee Gayton, 32, used a telephone in November while in custody to traffic fentanyl and cocaine, a federal indictment issued by the U.S. Attorney for South Carolina states. Gayton had been in jail near Columbia in Lexington County since February 2023 for the other charges, court records show. A federal judge sentenced Gayton for the February 2023 charges in March. The indictment for the new charges was unsealed Friday after Gayton and 12 others from around South Carolina were indicted by a federal grand jury. Gayton is accused of participating in a drug conspiracy from jail that attempted to distribute large quantities of cocaine, fentanyl and methamphetamine, a written statement from prosecutors said. The conspiracy started in 2016 and went on through last week when arrests were made, prosecutors said. Prosecutors allege Gayton helped move more than 10 pounds of cocaine and over 400 grams of fentanyl according to the indictments. He made drug deals on Nov. 25 and Dec. 13 despite being in jail, the indictments state. Veronica Hill, spokesperson for the U.S. Attorneys Office in Columbia, confirmed Timothy Gayton was incarcerated at the time of the alleged offenses in the latest drug crimes. The new charges also carry up to life in prison if he is convicted. Authorities first arrested Gayton in February 2023 in the separate case involving more than 60 pounds of fentanyl and other drugs seized in October 2022 from a Lake Wylie area mobile home used as a secret drug lab. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy in that case in March and faces 10 years to life in prison at sentencing later this year. Four other York County men including his twin brother, Timario Gayton face the same potential penalty of 10 years up to life after pleading guilty in the Lake Wylie bust. The others convicted in the Lake Wylie bust are not named in the new indictments. DICKSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) A man previously convicted of killing a Dickson County sergeant will pursue an appeal. Steven Wiggins and his legal team filed a motion for a new trial in Judge David Wolfes Dickson County court on Tuesday. Wolfe noted that previously, Wiggins indicated that he did not wish to pursue an appeal, but Wiggins affirmed that he changed his mind. APRIL 2022: Man convicted of killing Sgt. Daniel Baker sentenced to life in federal prison The state has until December to file a response to Wiggins motion. The motion for new trial will be argued on February 4, 2025. Wiggins was convicted in the killing of Dickson County Sergeant Daniel Baker, which occurred on May 30, 2018. Wiggins faced charges of carjacking and firearms violations that resulted in death on a federal level. He pleaded guilty to those charges March 25, 2022. That sentence was carried out Tuesday, April 26. Steven Wiggins brutally murdered Dickson County Sheriffs Office Sergeant Daniel Baker because he didnt want to go back to jail, U.S. Attorney Mark Wildasin said at the time. In August 2021, Wiggins was sentenced to death by the state of Tennessee. Meanwhile, Erika Castro Miles also faced charges in Bakers death. Miles ultimately reached a plea agreement. RELATED: Nothing is enough: Sgt. Daniel Bakers widow reacts to plea deal Those crimes that day were against Sgt. Daniel Baker, a decorated Marine combat veteran, Wildasin added at the time. But, they were also crimes against his wife Lisa, his young daughter Meredith, his parents, brother, extended family and friends in community. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Man could go to federal prison for fraudulently taking cows from Cleveland County A man recently pleaded guilty to federal charges of defrauding cattle markets in Cleveland County and beyond by writing bad checks. A North Carolina man recently pleaded guilty to federal charges of defrauding cattle markets in Cleveland County and beyond by writing bad checks. William Dalton Edwards, 25, of Mount Airy, conspired to scam cattle houses out of his portion of $1 million between April 2018 to October 2022, court documents say. According to court documents and the plea hearing, Edwards and another person defrauded livestock markets, also known as sales barns, in Iredell and Cleveland counties, and in Texas, Oklahoma and Virginia. The investigation determined that, on multiple occasions, Edwards and his coconspirator purchased cattle from sales barns in North Carolina and wrote checks to pay for the cattle, a press release from the U.S. Attorneys Office said. Edwards and his coconspirator wrote such checks knowing they were worthless, since there were insufficient funds to cover the checks and pay for the cattle. According to court records, Edwards and his coconspirator arranged to transport the cattle out-of-state before the defrauded sales barns and financial institutions could determine their checks were worthless. The stolen cattle were then resold in Texas and Oklahoma. Over the course of the scheme, Edwards and his co-conspirator fraudulently obtained more than 3,000 head of cattle and caused over $1 million in losses to sales barns in North Carolina, Virginia and Texas. The sales barns which are family-owned in North Carolina incurred these losses because they are required to pay farmers and ranchers immediately after the sale of their livestock. Edwards pleaded guilty last week to conspiring to defraud the United States and to violate the laws of the United States. One of the objects of the charged conspiracy was to hamper and impede the Packers and Stockyard Division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture in its regulation of fair livestock markets. Other objects of the conspiracy included a scheme to obtain funds under the custody and control of federally insured financial institutions through false statements and representations; to steal livestock valued at more than $10,000; and to transport stolen livestock in interstate commerce. The statutory maximum for the charged offense is five years in prison, and any restitution or fines ordered by the court at sentencing. Edwards has been released on bond. A sentencing date has not been sent. This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Man could go to federal prison for fraudulently taking cows Man dies outside business after stabbing in Prince Georges County Editors Note The story has been updated to reflect the correct location of the incident. PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) Police detectives said they were investigating a homicide after someone found a man stabbed outside a business in Beltsville late Monday night. The Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPG) said officers responded to the Rhode Island and Baltimore Avenue area for an unconscious man lying outside just after 11 p.m. Once at the scene, police discovered a man with stab wounds. He died at the scene. Pedestrian in critical condition after crash in Prince Georges County As of early Tuesday morning, detectives were on the scene and working to establish a motive. Police have not released the victims name at this time. Anyone with information is asked to submit a tip through Prince Georges County Crime Solvers or the P3 Tips app. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. CHICAGO A man has died after being shot multiple times in North Lawndale Monday afternoon. Chicago police said officers went to the 1300 block of South Springfield Avenue at around 12:20 p.m. to investigate a report of shots fired. When they arrived, they found a 34-year-old man near the street with a gunshot wound to his head and multiple gunshot wounds throughout his body. Man charged with murder of 15-year-old Round Lake Beach girl The man was taken to Mt. Sinai Hospital where he was pronounced dead. No arrests have been made and Area Four Detectives are investigating. Anyone with additional information may leave an anonymous tip at cpdtip.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. A man was found guilty last week in the shooting death of a local musician hailed as one of the most talented rappers to emerge from Sacramento at a fast food store after a high speed chase reaching more than 100 mph, prosecutors said. A Sacramento County jury convicted Moses Hirschfield of first-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm on Friday, according to the Sacramento County District Attorneys Office. Christopher Treadwell, 24, who performed under the stage name Bris, was shot on June 21, 2020, after an encounter with Hirschfield. Treadwell had gone to an ampm gas station and saw Hirschfield inside. The rapper left the store and Hirschfield jumped into his car to chase him, prosecutors said in a news release. The chase, which reached speeds up to 113 mph, ended after Treadwell lost control of his car and crashed, prosecutors said. Hirschfield began chasing the victim on foot and shot him in the head after reaching the JimBoys Tacos drive-thru at the corner of Franklin Boulevard and Fruitridge Road in south Sacramento, prosecutors and police said. A sentencing hearing is set for Aug. 29 in which Hirschfield faces a prison sentence of 50 years to life, prosecutors said. Treadwell released dozens of music videos including for the song Panhandling on YouTube, whose popularity surged after his death. Some have accumulated more than 10 million views. He leaves behind two children, according to the Grammy Awards website. Man found shot to death at downtown Atlanta high rise after dispute over woman A man was shot to death late Monday night at a high-rise in downtown Atlanta. Atlanta police said a man was found dead at The Residences at W Atlanta Downtown, which is the residential side of the W Hotel on Ivan Allen Boulevard. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Police said the shooting happened during a fight over a woman. Atlanta Police Lt. Andrew Smith said the victim was leaving the womans home on the 26th floor when another man showed up, leading to gunfire. Channel 2s Darryn Moore is LIVE on the scene, working to learn more for Channel 2 Action News This Morning from 4:30 a.m. to 7 a.m. Officers described the victim as a man in his early 40s. Police have not released his name. A suspect was detained and there is no threat to the public at this time, according to police. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: STAUNTON A convicted sex offender from Maryland who had only been out of prison for several months before he began targeting an Augusta County girl was sentenced to 20 years in prison last week after pleading guilty to four felony charges. In Augusta County Circuit Court on Friday, Steven P. Gilbert, 33, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was convicted on four counts of use of a communications system to solicit sex from a minor. Augusta County Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney Katie Grimm said Virginia State Police began an investigation of Gilbert in early 2023 following a welfare check on the young girl, who was under the age of 12. Child Protective Services was also involved, Grimm said. More: SpongeBob and friends are coming to Waynesboro in a new Wayne Theatre musical During an interview with authorities, the girl alleged she'd been sexually abused, according to Grimm. That prompted investigators to seize several electronic devices from the child's home. The prosecutor said it was soon discovered the girl had been electronically communicating with Gilbert through Snapchat in late 2022, and said he sent her numerous messages that were sexual in nature. Grimm said Gilbert also traveled to the area, which court records noted was a violation of his probation in Maryland. In May 2022, he was paroled in Maryland after serving 11 years of a 27-year prison sentence for sexually abusing a minor, Grimm said. But just months after being released, Gilbert was already communicating with the young Augusta County girl. He was extradited from Maryland in January to face the Virginia charges. More: Sheriff's Office: Rare books valued at more than $225,000 stolen from county home In court Friday, in exchange for Gilbert's four guilty pleas, 16 identical soliciting charges were not prosecuted. Besides the 20-year prison term, he will also be placed on five years of probation when released. Gilbert was not charged with sexually abusing the victim. Grimm said Maryland authorities are expected to pursue additional prison time for Gilbert. "He has 16 years remaining on that Maryland charge," she said. Gilbert, who was represented by the Staunton Public Defender's Office, remains at Middle River Regional Jail in Verona while he awaits transfer to the Virginia Department of Corrections. More: Creative writing and political rallies: THE DIGEST Brad Zinn is the cops, courts and breaking news reporter at The News Leader. Have a news tip? Or something that needs investigating? You can email reporter Brad Zinn (he/him) at bzinn@newsleader.com. You can also follow him on X (formerly Twitter). This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Maryland man gets 20-years after contacting girl younger than 12 AKRON, Ohio (WJW) An Akron man has pled guilty to several charges connected to a drive-by shooting that killed a local toddler more than four years ago. According to a press release from the Summit County Prosecutors Office, Phillip Mendoza, 62, of Edward Avenue in Akron, was immediately sentenced to 15 to 20.5 years in prison following the plea on charges of Conspiracy to Commit Murder and Felonious Assault. Two women accused of opening fire on each other Officials said that in August of 2020, several shots were fired at a home on 5th Avenue in East Akron. Seven people were at the home and three of them were struck, including 20-month-old Tyree Halsell. Halsell later died from his injuries, said county officials. Man wanted in Ohio murder was working as cop The investigation into the drive-by shooting lasted nearly two-and-a-half years. Mendoza was arrested in February 2023. A man and woman in the home who were also shot survived. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Prosecutors are recommending 30 months in prison for a man who pleaded guilty Tuesday in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court for trying to run someone over in a yard. Read next: Live: Tracking severe weather in the Valley Robert Ribarin, 40, pleaded guilty to an amended charge of attempted felonious assault, a third-degree felony, before Judge Maureen Sweeney. A sentencing date has not been set yet. Ribarin remains in the Mahoning County jail, where he has been since he was arrested April 28 by city police who were called to a fight about 1:40 a.m. on Wesley Avenue. There, a man told police he was standing in a yard and Ribarin tried to drive through the yard and hit him. Ribarin was originally charged with felonious assault, but the charge was amended in exchange for his guilty plea. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. (Bloomberg) -- Instacart is making its first international push outside the US and Canada by testing its smart shopping carts in Europe, a move the company said will lay the foundation for growth beyond its core grocery delivery service. Most Read from Bloomberg Instacarts high-tech shopping carts, called Caper Carts, will be used in ALDI South Groups grocery store in Sattledt, Austria, the companies said Tuesday in a statement. The carts an effort Instacart began through a $350 million acquisition in 2021 include self-checkout and are equipped with cameras and sensors to detect items. They have been deployed at metro and suburban branches of US and Canadian grocers such as Kroger Co. and Wakefern Food Corp.s ShopRite and Fairway Market. We think theres a lot of opportunity to level up the shopping experience to make it more of an adventure and less of a chore, David McIntosh, vice president and general manager of Connected Stores at Instacart, said in an interview Monday. The company is in talks with other retailers in Europe and other continents to deploy more of its carts, he added, and it plans to have thousands of them, mostly in the US, by the end of the year. Instacart is seeking to expand its business with enterprise offerings to grocers as it faces slowing growth in its main delivery business at home. The company, which is scheduled to report quarterly earnings later Tuesday, has been increasingly reliant on higher-margin advertising and enterprise products, which make up close to 30% of annual revenue, to boost profit. The company wants to position itself as a technical partner for brick-and-mortar stores. It has said that customers who shop online and in-store spend two to four times more than those who shop only in-store. Instacart said one of its grocery clients, Schnuck Markets Inc., noted that customers who use the smart shopping carts in its stores end up having larger baskets than those who use regular carts. Customers can use Caper Carts in grocery stores without an Instacart account. That means Instacart can take the carts to markets where it doesnt currently offer delivery services, which are concentrated in the US. Instacarts San Francisco-based rivals DoorDash Inc. and Uber Technologies Inc. provide food and grocery delivery services in a number of overseas markets, sometimes through acquiring local players. Story continues Our international ambitions are solely focused on Caper at this time, McIntosh said, when asked if Instacart will expand its delivery service overseas. But by leading our international expansion with Caper Carts, we do think were building the foundation to bring Instacarts leading grocery technology to more countries. While still nascent, the smart carts are part of its Connected Stores suite of in-store technology products for supermarket operators: from fulfillment tools that help in-store associates pack items faster for curbside pickup orders, to offering personalized recommendations and discounts to customers on their grocery runs through advertising on the carts tablet or the Instacart app. As part of an expanded partnership between the two companies, ALDI is deploying the other in-store technologies developed by Instacart in its stores across the US, the companies said in the statement. That includes installing Instacarts electronic shelf tags that light up and make it easier for Instacarts network of couriers to find items in stores when fulfilling orders. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) Providence police arrested a man who pulled a knife on a police patrolman while being escorted out of The Miriam Hospital early Tuesday morning. According to police, Damien Kilgore, 34, was being escorted out of the hospital around 1 a.m. for acting unruly when he took out a knife with a four-inch blade. The officer then drew his firearm and ordered Kilgore to drop the knife, but Kilgore refused to comply and ran away. A Lifespan spokesperson told Target 12 prior to the incident on Tuesday, the hospital group hired Providence Police Department detail for added security. We would like to thank the Providence Police Department and hospital security for their quick response and dedication to keeping everyone safe, a spokesperson said. Police said Kilgore was later apprehended not far from the hospital at a Speedway gas station on North Main Street. Kilgore is being charged with felony assault, resisting arrest and having weapons other than firearms prohibited. Online court records show Kilgore was arraigned and no plea was entered. A judge ordered him to undergo a competency evaluation. Kilgore was presented as a violator for two previous drug possession cases on Tuesday afternoon. A judge ordered him held without bail and he was remanded to the Adult Correctional Institutions. The 34-year-old has a lengthy criminal history. Online court records show Kilgore has previously been charged with larceny, conspiracy, drug possession, trespassing and disorderly conduct. Alexandra Leslie (aleslie@wpri.com) is a Target 12 investigative reporter covering Providence and more for 12 News. Connect with her on Twitter and on Facebook. Tim White contributed to this report. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) A California man was sentenced to more than five years in prison for his involvement in trafficking firearms between Utah and California, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Utah. Leslie Eugene Gittoes, 53, of Ontario, California, was sentenced after pleading guilty to conspiracy to travel interstate with intent to engage in the business of dealing firearms without a license in Feb. 2024, the attorneys office said. Gittoes also known as Big Craze was the lead defendant in the firearms trafficking case, and was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge David Sam to 67 months in prison, as well as three years of supervised release and the forfeiture of multiple firearms. READ NEXT: Who is Taberon Honie? A timeline of the crime, recent proceedings that led to his scheduled execution The attorneys office said that, between Sept. 2020 and Aug. 2021, Gittoes and his coconspirators planned to travel from Utah to California to deal firearms without a license. According to the attorneys office, the case was initiated following a 2021 shooting between rival California gangs and the investigation revealed the firearms were transferred from purchasers in Utah to restricted persons, including gang members. One of the firearms that was recovered in California was used in a gang-related shooting that led to someones death, according to the attorneys office. Gittoes admitted he provided monetary compensation to Israel Luis Gonzalez, 60, of Roy, Utah, Emmette James Kibodeaux, 48, of Clearfield, Utah, and Taiesha Ann Kibodeaux, 40, of Clearfield, Utah, in exchange for firearms, the attorneys office said. Gittoes further admitted that the conspiracy involved 25 to 99 firearms. Two of Gittoes coconspirators Emmette James Kibodeaux and Taiesha Ann Kibodeaux were sentenced in March 2024. Gonzalez is awaiting sentencing and is scheduled to be sentenced in September. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) A man will serve the maximum sentence within a plea deal for crimes related to sexually exploiting and sextorting more than 25 victims in at least four states, including girls at a Columbus high school. According to the U.S. Attorneys Office for Southern District of Ohio, Lorenzo Winfield, 23, was sentenced to 27 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to possession, distribution and receipt of child pornography as well as extortion for interstate commerce. Columbus gin bar suddenly closes after less than a year The U.S. District Courts ruling comes after Winfield pleaded guilty in December. Charges of sexual exploitation of a minor and coercion and enticement of a minor were not included in the plea deal, which included a possible incarceration sentence of 23 to 27 years. Winfield sought out and collected nude photos and files of high school classmates and minor females he met online. According to court documents, from at least 2016 until 2021, Winfield used extortion tactics to solicit and collect explicit photos of underage girls at his Columbus high school, the Arts and College Preparatory Academy (ACPA), where he was known as the ACPA Hacker. Winfield would contact students at the school and demand nude photos of them, sometimes hacking into the victims social media accounts and using the photos he obtained against them. He would also extort the victims by having them send him sexually explicit content to regain control of their social media accounts, the news release said. Study: Ohio among top 10 states with most student debt in U.S. He would then tell the victims he had nude photos of them or other students and would distribute them to friends and family unless the victims complied. Winfield followed through with his threats, distributing the sexually explicit photos of his victims to others. Winfield used accounts on platforms such as Discord, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Skype and Google Hangouts to extort the victims. Winfield was additionally investigated for exploiting at least four victims in Fairfax and Prince William counties in Virginia, and at least one victim in College Station, Texas. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) A man is in critical condition after he was shot inside a Queens smoke shop on Monday, according to the NYPD. It happened at 119-19 Jamaica Ave. around 10:40 p.m. The 34-year-old victim was shot six times; four times in the back and twice in the right arm, according to authorities. More Local News He was transported to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. The store had five people inside at the time: a woman who left right before the shooting, an employee, two suspects and the victim, per police. The first suspect was a man last seen wearing a green hat, blue shirt, beige sweatpants and white sneakers. The second suspect was also a man, who was last seen wearing black pants, a black shirt, black sneakers, a beige hat and prescription eyeglasses. The suspects allegedly fled the shop westbound on Jamaica Avenue and then southbound on Lefferts Boulevard. Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. Man to spend life in prison with hard labor for 2021 violent crime spree in Bogalusa BOGALUSA, La. (WGNO) An Angie man was sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison with hard labor after he was found guilty of a 2021 crime spree that left a high school senior dead and a 13-year-old shot. The Office of District Attorney Collin Sims originally reported that 21-year-old Andrew Pernell and two others fatally gunned down Aaron Brown, a Bogalusa High School senior who was walking home from school, on Aug. 23, 2021. Kenner home burglarized while person was asleep upstairs The Bogalusa Police Department reported officers responded to gunfire near Hickory Avenue and Dan Street, where they found Brown and pronounced him dead at the scene. On Sept. 15, 2021, court documents state Pernell fired about 18 shots at an occupied home on Main Street in Bogalusa with an AK-47. No injuries were reported. Additionally, on Sept. 20, 2021, court document state that Pernell shot a 13-year-old who was getting off a school bus on Main Street. The 13-year-old was airlifted for emergency treatment of multiple gunshot wounds. The district attorneys office reported Pernell fired nine shots before trying to leave the scene and crashing his vehicle. Bogalusa police then took Pernell into custody and searched the area. During the search, Bogalusa officers said they found a gun in the woods. According to the district attorney, an analysis of the gun found in the woods and DNA determined that it was the gun used to shoot the 13-year-old boy. In a search of Pernells home, court documents state detectives recovered an AK-47 that was later determined to be the one used during the Sept. 15, 2021, drive-by shooting. Feud between family members leads to Kenner homicide A search of Pernells phone reportedly revealed texts discussing how Pernell got the AK-47 used in the drive-by shooting and the AR-15 used to shoot Brown. Court documents state Pernell was messaging a strawman to buy weapons, stating he needed them because I kill ppl. The district attorneys office reported a search of another persons phone revealed messages with Pernell laying out plans to engage in a shooting once students started walking home from Bogalusa High School after classes ended for the day. On Friday, June 28, a jury convicted Pernell after deliberating for 27 minutes. He was found guilty of second-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit second-degree murder and assault by drive-by shooting. Judge Ellen Creel sentenced him on Monday, Aug. 5 to serve life in prison at hard labor without parole for Browns murder. He received 50 years in prison at hard labor without parole for the attempted murder of the 13-year-old. The court ordered both sentences to run consecutive to each other. Additionally, Pernell was sentenced to 20 years in prison on the conspiracy charge and 10 years in prison for the drive-by shooting with those sentences being ordered to run concurrent to the life and 50-year prison terms. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO. MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11) Police are searching for a man in connection to a robbery pattern at different banks in Manhattan. Police say the man is linked to three separate incidents in July and August. More Local News The first incident happened at 9 a.m. inside the TD Bank at 451 Lexington Avenue on Thursday, July 18. The suspect approached a 25-year-old man and handed him a note demanding money, according to the NYPD. The robbery attempt was unsuccessful and the suspect fled, heading north on Lexington Avenue. The second incident happened at the Citi Bank at 1 Park Avenue on Wednesday, July 24. A 30-year-old woman was approached by an unidentified man at around 3:40 p.m., police said. The man handed her a note demanding money and indicated he had a firearm, according to the NYPD. The robbery attempt was unsuccessful and the man fled north on Park Avenue. Man allegedly writes note asking for $20K in robbery at Bronx bank: NYPD The third incident happened around 11:05 a.m. on Friday, August 2 at Wells Fargo at 1156 Avenue of the Americas. Police say a 21-year-old woman was approached by an unidentified man. He handed her a note demanding money and indicated he had a firearm, police said. He stole $3,710 and fled east on West 45th Street. Police say no injuries were reported. The NYPD released the following surveillance images of the suspect. Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. Man suspected of murdering 1 man, critically injuring another in Atlanta shooting arrested A man suspected of killing one man and critically injuring another at an Atlanta apartment complex has been arrested. On April 19, at around 8:26 p.m., Atlanta police officers responded to a report of a person shot at 3030 Continental Colony Parkway SW where they found a 31-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was not conscious but was still breathing. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] He was later pronounced dead by medical workers at the scene. Officers also found a second man who was suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to a local hospital by ambulance in critical condition. Investigators with the Atlanta Police Department Homicide Unit responded to determine the circumstances behind the shooting. Police issued warrants for Jaylen Patterson, 23 for murder, two counts of aggravated assault, and two counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. On August 5, Atlanta Police were notified that Georgia State Patrol Troopers had arrested Patterson. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: CINCINNATI, Ohio (WJW) A man who had been one of Americas Most Wanted for nearly 20 years is in custody. Antonio Riano had been wanted for the shooting death of Benjamin Becarra, 25, in Butler County, Ohio, in 2004. Some say they witnessed a miracle as blessed statue tours Northeast Ohio On August 1, U.S. Marshals arrested Riano in his hometown of Zapotitlan Palmas, State of Oaxaca, Mexico, where he was working as a police officer, according to a press release. Riano made his first court appearance in Ohio on Monday, where he was ordered held without bond. Riano, now 72, was profiled on the Americas Most Wanted television series in 2005. According to FOX 19, Riano shot Becerra in the face following an argument inside and then outside of the Round House bar in Hamilton on the afternoon of Dec. 19, 2004. This type of apprehension would not be possible without the cooperation and due diligence of both the Prosecutors Office investigators, the United States Marshal Service, and the United States Department of Justice, said Michael T. Gmoser, Butler County prosecutor in a press release. Big Powerball win at local Giant Eagle The Butler County Prosecutors Office teamed up with the U.S. Marshals Service and the U.S. Department of Justices Office of International Affairs who worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure Rianos arrest and extradition. Riano is due back in court later this month. According to Butler County Jail records, Riano is being held on two charges of murder and 1 count of felony assault. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. From a classroom to the White House: A look at the governor Harris picked for VP Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz met with child care providers at CLUES in St. Paul on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2023. (File/Michelle Griffith/Minnesota Reformer.) Gov. Tim Walz fused his everyman personality with an optimistic progressive message to win the most important audition of his political career the past few weeks, winning the quick admiration of Democratic activists and Vice President Kamala Harris, who named Walz as her running mate Tuesday. As a governor, a coach, a teacher, and a veteran, hes delivered for working families like his own. We are going to build a great partnership. We start out as underdogs, but I believe together, we can win this election, Harris said in a statement announcing her pick. Harris selection of Walz rockets the former geography teacher from Midwest obscurity into the highest stratosphere of American politics, potentially joining Hubert Humphrey and Walter Mondale as Minnesotan vice presidents. Walzs selection follows his splashy arrival on the national stage during a series of high-profile TV interviews since President Joe Biden dropped out of the race last month and threw his weight behind his vice president. Walz, who tends to talk in a Diet Mountain Dew-fueled, regular guy patois, has impressed Democrats with his ability to communicate the partys message, while using a one-word zinger weird to hammer Republicans for book bans and pushing to outlaw abortion nationwide. The two-term governor, who also served a dozen years in Congress, has racked up an impressive legislative record, especially in his second term. He signed bills to create a paid family and medical leave program; provide for universal free school meals; legalize recreational marijuana; sharply increase tax credits for low-income families; and boost sales and gas taxes for transportation and housing. Governor Walz has been a strong leader, a great partner with the Legislature, and is an excellent choice for vice president, said Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman, D-Brooklyn Park. We worked together over the last two years on the most productive session in Minnesota in decades, passing policies that will help Minnesotans build better lives for themselves and their families. Minnesota Republicans say Walz has changed the North Star State for the worse. Minnesota House Minority Leader Lisa Demuth, R-Cold Spring, wrote recently that past two years featured some of the most extreme and irresponsible policies weve ever seen in our state, citing tax and fee increases, unsustainable new spending, energy mandates that will hike rates and a rise in the cost of Uber and Lyft rides. Walz brings a resume that suggests both achievement and middle class roots: He was a high school teacher and assistant football coach in the southern Minnesota city of Mankato, population 45,000, before his election to Congress in 2006, becoming the first Democrat to win the 1st Congressional District in more than a decade. He retired from the National Guard after 24 years in 2005 with the rank of command sergeant major, which made him the highest ranking enlisted man to ever serve in the U.S. Congress. Walz underwent surgery to restore his hearing, damaged after years of exposure to artillery ranges. He recently said he can hunt pheasants better than the GOP vice presidential nominee, U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance. Expect Walz to post up in the so-called blue wall states of Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin, where the Harris campaign hopes his middle class demeanor will appeal to white, non-college voters who comprise a strong plurality of those battleground states. Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan complimenting a child at fair about his Smokey the Bear shirt. (File/Baylor Spears/Minnesota Reformer) A top operative for Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor (what the Democratic Party is called in Minnesota) said Walz is well positioned to help Harris carry those crucial states. Tim Walz is a great pick because in addition to his blue collar background and his cultural fit with the blue wall states, as governor his accomplishments are mostly about improving the lives of middle class and working families, said Jeff Blodgett, who was chief strategist for Sens. Paul Wellstone and Al Franken. This ticket can now powerfully argue that they are the team that is squarely on the side of Americas working families. Walz is married to Gwen Walz, a career educator, and is father to an adult daughter Hope and teenaged son Gus, both born with help of in vitro-fertilization. IVF, which accounts for about 2.5% of all children born in the United States, has become a potent political issue in the past year after the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that embryos created during IVF are legally classified as children. Fertility clinics paused use of the technique out of fear of civil and criminal liability. Its not by chance that we named our daughter Hope, Walz said in response to the IVF controversy. Walz will use his compelling biography to introduce himself to the American public. But he will also be forced to defend his 5 1/2-year tenure as governor of the nations 22nd most populous state. First term: Managing crisis Walzs first term especially was marked by the management of crises, from the COVID-19 pandemic to the aftermath of the police killings of George Floyd and Daunte Wright. Republicans will almost certainly broadcast images of flaming buildings on Lake Street in Minneapolis, including the 3rd precinct headquarters of the Minneapolis Police Department. On the second night of protests, as a Lake Street Target was being looted, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey called Walzs office and requested help from the National Guard, he later told the Star Tribune, which corroborated the account with state and local records. Walz publicly assumed command Thursday morning, which is when he called up the National Guard. They were on the ground Thursday evening, but still the city burned. MPD evacuated the 3rd precinct headquarters that night, and looters and rioters ransacked it. The fires continued Friday night. Former Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka alleged recently that he called the White House, then occupied by former President Donald Trump, and lobbied the administration to push Walz into action. Walz blamed outsiders for the destruction, a claim that turned out to be mostly false. Less than a year later, the Twin Cities was on edge at the outset of the trial of former police officer Derek Chauvin, accused of Floyds murder. Thats when Brooklyn Center officer Kim Potter killed Daunte Wright, an unarmed Black man, when she drew and fired her service weapon instead of her Taser as she said she intended. As protests and scattered looting broke out, Walz took a much firmer line, imposing a curfew on three urban counties and bolstering the defense of the Brooklyn Center police headquarters with a massive State Patrol presence. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks in the governors reception room of the State Capitol building in St. Paul Thursday, September 17, 2020. Walz encountered twin crises in the pandemic and police killing of George Floyd that defined his first term. (File/Nicole Neri/Minnesota Reformer) As during the Floyd protests, journalists and demonstrators were targeted by police, who used tear gas and less-lethal projectiles to subdue crowds. Walz was criticized for the response, including by many progressive Democrats who broke with him. Even as Walz dealt with the Floyd and Wright police killings and their aftermath, he was also managing the public health crisis of COVID-19. He leaned on Minnesotas robust public health assets, including the University of Minnesota and the Mayo Clinic. The states COVID-19 death rate and overall mortality rate during the pandemic were among the nations lowest. Republicans attacked his COVID-19 restrictions as tyrannical, including a directive to avoid large family gatherings during the holiday season of 2020. They also criticized and in some cases filed lawsuits over his restrictions on youth sports, which accompanied long periods of remote schooling. The administrations aggressive posture toward the pandemic extended to getting help to people who needed it, including workers suddenly out of work and hungry children. Minnesota was the first state to get unemployment benefits out to gig workers. Critics say the Walz administration was also blind to a massive fraud happening in plain sight. Walzs Department of Education administered a federal program intended to feed hungry children during the pandemic but instead became a cash cow for fraudsters. Legislative audits have sharply criticized the administrations failure to stop more than $250 million in fraudulent payments in what has become known as the Feeding Our Future fraud; 70 people have been charged and nearly two dozen convicted. Under Governor Walzs watch, fraud and waste in our state public programs has exploded, Demuth charged. Second term: Progressive wish list becomes reality Despite the tumultuous tenure, Walz was easily reelected in 2022 and delivered major coattails: A Democratic trifecta took command of state government in 2023 for the first time in nearly a decade. Democrats got to work on a wish list which has become the envy of progressives across the country. Students from Webster Elementary School in northeast Minneapolis hugged Gov. Tim Walz after he signed a bill on March 17, 2023, providing free breakfast and lunch to Minnesota students. (File/Michelle Griffith/Minnesota Reformer) Walz pushed for a tax rebate that came in smaller than what he proposed but still amounted to $1,300 for a family of four. Lawmakers passed a package of $2.6 billion for infrastructure, which has allowed Walz to pose for photos at a bevy of construction projects on roads, bridges and other key infrastructure. The deal included $300 million for nursing homes, which are newly subject to a labor-friendly sectoral bargaining system. In one of the Legislatures first official acts, Minnesota codified abortion rights, becoming a haven in the Upper Midwest even as neighboring states enacted restrictions. Walz, who was once a fierce gun rights supporter until the 2018 massacre at Parkland High School which happened as he campaigned for governor signed two gun control bills in 2023. One extended background checks to all private sales, while a so-called red flag law allows a judge to take a persons guns if hes deemed a threat to himself or others. Walz signed a bill to restore voting rights to people leaving prison. Undocumented people can now get a drivers license thanks to a bill Walz signed. A new law mandates a carbon-free electric grid by 2040. Its not yet clear what impact these policies will have on the future of Minnesota. On measures like life expectancy, family income, unemployment, education attainment and violent crime, the Minnesota metrics during Walzs tenure have mostly risen and fallen alongside national trends, with Minnesota near the top in many of these quality-of-life metrics. Those measures dont apply to all Minnesotans, however. The gap between white and Black homeownership in Minnesota is 48 percentage points, for instance. Walz and Democratic lawmakers say thats precisely why they passed a robust first-time homebuyer assistance program for people with modest incomes. Walz has said his goal is to make Minnesota the best place in the nation to raise a family, including factors like cost-of-living, housing affordability, good paying jobs, education and child care. Unfinished business: Education The most troubling metric for Walz, who as a teacher was presumed to be well positioned to be an education governor, is the states lackluster performance on student achievement tests in recent years. Minnesota ranks in the top five best states for children, according to a scorecard compiled by the Anne E. Casey Foundation. But in the same study, Minnesotas education system dropped to 19th. Minnesota has long struggled with some of the nations worst opportunity gaps, especially for Black and Indigenous students, even as the student population has become steadily more diverse over time. Walz told the Star Tribune in 2019 that his tenure should be judged by how well he closes the gaps: Its a reality I clearly understood and I said during the campaign that Ill be judged and should be judged by how well we close [those disparities], as long as were given the tools, and I take that responsibility, he said. Like the SC Daily Gazette, the Minnesota Reformer is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Minnesota Reformer maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor J. Patrick Coolican for questions: info@minnesotareformer.com. Follow Minnesota Reformer on Facebook and X. An investigation is underway after a man's body was found floating in the water off the coast of Jersey City Tuesday morning, officials said. New York City Police responded to a 911 call for a water rescue in the Morris Canal Basin near Ellis Island at 7:39 a.m., an NYPD spokesman told NorthJersey.com. The man was removed from the water by the department's Marine Unit and transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. The man's identity was not released pending notification of his family, the spokesman said. The cause of death has not been determined. No arrests have been made in the case, and the investigation remains ongoing, the spokesman said. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Man's body found in Jersey City water near Ellis Island My counterpart at Ball State University, Michael Hicks, does not hesitate to point to a shortage of well-educated persons in the Hoosier workforce. Classical economists would say, Dont worry about it. The market will take care of it. Wages will rise or the demand for such workers will decline. Economists not glued to rocking chairs are disinclined to wait for the market to find a jolly equilibrium. We urge the state to educate Hoosiers not just for tomorrows jobs, but to be informed citizens in tomorrows world. How great is this shortage? When compared with the nation, Indiana is short 275,400 persons with bachelor, graduate, or professional (BGP) degrees. While persons with BGP degrees are 34% of the nations population 25 years of age and older, only 28% of Indianas adults have those degrees. We rank 42nd among the 50 states in those with BGP degrees. An addition of 275,400 would be 22% more BGP graduates in our population. Perhaps possession of a degree, certificate or uniform patch doesnt indicate much more than attendance-without-dishonor. But such tokens remain the most utilized proxies for proof of acquired knowledge. According to 2022 data from the Census Bureau, Indiana ranks 43rd in attracting residents from other states or abroad. Nationally, 48% of such movers were BGP degree holders, but Indiana saw only 40% of movers with those degrees, 37th in the nation. Within Indiana, the percent of the population 25 and older with BGP degrees is greatest in Hamiton, Boone and Monroe counties, at 61%, 49% and 48%, respectively. Hendricks and Tippecanoe come in at 39% each, followed by Bartholomew and Warrick each just below 35%. And thats it. Just seven Indiana counties are above the national average of persons with BGP degrees. Trailing, just about 11% each, are Scott, LaGrange and Switzerland counties. Thats the status as of 2022. Where did those migrants with BGP degrees chose to go within Indiana in the past year? Of those 133,500 changing counties within Indiana, 26% had BGP degrees. Thats not far below the 28% for the total population of 25 and older. However, nationally, persons with BGP degrees raised the average with their intra-state movements. Furthermore, nationally, of those changing states or entering from abroad, 50% had BGP degrees while of new Hoosiers, 42% held such degrees. Seems like we're not on a path to catch the nation in the race for better educated residents. This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Marcus: Indiana lags behind national average for residents with degrees RIP to a Marine general who paved the way for the Corps of today The Marine Corps recently bid a final farewell to one of its own who played a crucial role in transforming the service when he assumed the helm of U.S. Central Command. Gen. George Crist, 93, died July 26 in Beaufort, South Carolina, decades after retiring from the Marine Corps in 1988, following 36 years of service. In his final posting, he led the newly established CENTCOM with few resources amid international incidents, including spillover from the Iran-Iraq War and growing threats in a region that would take center stage in U.S. military actions for the next three decades. Crists leadership at CENTCOM paved the way for subsequent Marine Corps leaders such as Gen. Anthony Zinni, Gen. Jim Mattis, Gen. John Kelly, Gen. Joseph Dunford, and Gen. Kenneth McKenzie, friends and experts said. The inside story of why Marine MEUs are 'special operations capable' The Hartford, Connecticut, native was the son of a Navy captain, Marion Crist, one of the services first aviators. But George Crist chose the Marine Corps despite his fathers advice. The elder Crist saw the Corps at the time as a second-rate service, retired Col. David Crist, Georges son, told Marine Corps Times. George Crist got to spend time aboard ship while in the Naval Reserve Officer Training Cadet program at Villanova University. He thought in the Navy you didnt serve people, you served machines, David Crist said. And he wanted to serve people. A career that spanned decades George Crist would see combat early in his career, serving in the 1st Marine Division in the Korean War. After returning from Korea, Crist served as an aide to President Dwight D. Eisenhower. As a young captain, he first got a glimpse of each services role. A few years later, shortly after his sons William and David were born, Crist would see firsthand how it was to work with the other services in a high-stress environment. He was assigned to the Military Assistance Command Vietnam in 1964. He served in a joint U.S.-South Vietnamese headquarters under an Army officer. He worked on an assessment team, traveling the country, seeing a lot of combat and reporting back on how units were performing against the North Vietnamese. A lot of non-Marine assignments shaped his thinking, David Crist said. It happened absolutely by accident. Then-Capt. George Crist, standing left, with members of the Haitian army in 1960. Crist served as an advisor as part of the U.S. Naval Mission in Haiti. (Crist family) At the time, the services were far more closed than they would be in decades to come. Those early experiences gave Crist an understanding that many officers, regardless of service, but especially Marine officers, didnt often receive. In the late 1960s, he commanded the 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, before serving as a battalion commander with the 3rd Marine Division and then the 9th Marine Amphibious Brigade in Vietnam. As Crist rose in the ranks, he bounced between operational commands and the Pentagon, seeing various sides of how the military worked at all levels. He served as the vice director for the joint staff for the Joint Chiefs of Staff and helped assemble a peace force to support the surprise U.S.-led invasion of Grenada on Oct. 25, 1983. In 1985, Crist promoted to general, becoming the first active-duty Marine to wear four stars without having served as commandant or assistant commandant. Later that year, he assumed command of U.S. Central Command, which had only been established in 1983; prior to this, Middle East operations were managed by U.S. European Command. The Middle East attained greater operational relevance following a series of tragic events in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Those included the Iran hostage crisis from 1979 to 1981, during which more than 50 Americans were held hostage, and the 1983 terrorist bombing of the Marine barracks in Beirut, Lebanon, which killed three soldiers, 18 sailors and 220 Marines. The year after Crist assumed command, Congress passed the Goldwater-Nichols Act, significantly altering how the Pentagon conducted operations. For the first time, a Marine served as a unified commander over all services in his assigned region. Crist assumed these responsibilities amid a growing international crisis. In 1984, Iraq launched the Tanker War, attacking oil terminals and tankers of Iran during the two countries decadelong war. Iran retaliated by targeting Kuwaiti tankers and other vessels, prompting U.S. intervention in 1986, including naval escorts in the Persian Gulf near the Strait of Hormuz. On May 17, 1987, an Iraqi jet struck the U.S. frigate Stark with two missiles, killing 37 sailors and injuring another 21. Two months later, the Kuwaiti supertanker SS Bridgeton, flying a U.S. flag, struck an Iranian sea mine, damaging the hull. The Pentagon responded by deploying more U.S. warships to the region and threatening retaliation for attacks on ships bound for Kuwait. Between 1987 and 1988, at least 160 attacks occurred on vessels in the Persian Gulf. In high command During this period, Richard Armitage served as the assistant secretary of defense for international affairs under President Ronald Reagan. He vividly recalls his meetings with Crist. He didnt suffer fools, Armitage said. Id go down and see him, hed be behind his desk, a whip-thin Marine officer with a stern visage chain-smoking. Crist had the air of you do your business and you get out of his office. He was efficient, no bullshit and no games, Armitage said. In the early 1980s, the culturally the Marine Corps remained cloistered, Armitage said. They were content to stay in their lane. However, leaders like Crist recognized the changing landscape and understood that operations couldnt rely solely on one service; the Corps had an important role to play, he said. Leaders like Crist, serving in these roles for the first time, helped create an irrevocable change in the service and altered the militarys approach to command, Armitage said. Young Navy officer William Fallon was part of the next generation of officers rising to senior ranks following figures like Crist. Coincidentally, the two were both Villanova University graduates, though years apart. Its a history they share with Gen. Paul Xavier Kelley, the 28th Marine Corps commandant from 1983 to 1987 and Gen. Anthony Zinni, who led CENTCOM from 1997 to 2000. Fallon would follow in both Crists and Zinnis footsteps, leading CENTCOM from 2007 to 2008. He put Crist in the ranks of Kelley and Gen. Al Gray, the Marine Corps 29th commandant, as Marine officers who pushed the Corps into new types of operations and military territory. But Fallon doesnt envy the challenges Crist faced when he took over the fledgling command in 1986. At that time, combatant commanders lacked their own forces and had to persuade the services to assign them troops. I suspect he spent a lot of time going around to the services trying to get them to provide those forces, Fallon said. The value of both CENTCOM and joint operations became evident in the following years, as they became standard practice for the services. I think he was a key transition man in those two areas, Fallon said. The Marine Corps growing these four-star joint leaders and putting together a command that was borne out of a necessity in that region of the world. Continuing his service After he retired in 1988, Crist continued to play a role in military affairs as one of the earliest military consultants for major news operations. Crist served as a consultant for CBS News for nearly a decade, providing commentary and analysis on the Gulf War in an era where few retired officers did so. David Martin, a longtime Pentagon correspondent for CBS News, said Crist helped his bosses confirm the news he broke about the U.S. sending troops from the 82nd Airborne to support Saudi Arabia following the Iraq invasion of Kuwait in 1990. The journalist would call on Crist frequently throughout the 1990s to check on information hed gleaned. The Pentagon quickly began doing briefings for the growing number of retired senior officers working with news agencies, attempting to spin stories in a favorable light, Martin said. But Crist maintained his independence the whole time, he said. Im not a fan of these consultants, Martin said. Im a fan of George Crist. An enduring legacy and love of the Corps Despite David Crist growing up in a Marine household, his father, ever the pragmatist, encouraged him first to look at the Army, saying that service had more career opportunities. But just as his father didnt listen to his grandfather, David didnt listen to his dad. He commissioned in 1986 after graduating from the University of Virginia. Shortly after the ceremony, he flew with his father MacDill Air Force Base in Florida, where CENTCOM headquarters is located. The new lieutenant was somewhat shocked to see three-star generals saluting his dad. Crist leads the Beaufort Veterans Day Parade as grand marshal in Beaufort, South Carolina, Nov. 10, 2014. (Cpl. Chase S. Tillett/Marine Corps) David Crist was a first lieutenant when his father retired. He served in the Gulf War and later transitioned to the Reserve, retiring as a colonel in 2020. Along the way, he authored a book, The Twilight War: The Secret History of Americas Thirty-Year Conflict with Iran, which details much of what his father dealt with while in command. His fathers handling of the Tanker War, which the general dubbed a guerilla war at sea, would later be studied by joint, naval and combatant commanders for lessons on how to build joint task forces, especially to fight irregular threats, Crist said. But even with combat and command positions alongside all the services, George Crist knew his team and what it meant to him. He was a Marine through and through, Crist said. He loved being around Marines. Is Mark Kelly still in the running for VP pick? What to know as decision nears The vice presidential vetting process has rarely lasted so short and seemed so long. U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz are the finalists for Vice President Kamala Harris decision that is expected Tuesday. Each man seems to bring something to the ticket without damaging Harris prospects, said Lindsay Chervinsky, a presidential historian and executive director of the George Washington Presidential Library. Shes fortunate to be in the position of having three really strong candidates, Chervinsky said. Thats fairly unusual, and I think none would really cause her any harm, which is always the first rule of a vice presidential candidate. Over the span of about two weeks, Kelly, D-Ariz., changed from being a senator with a famous background to a spot on the short list for an overhauled presidential ticket in what is already a historic race. Its a similar story for Shapiro and Walz, neither of whom were on the 2024 political radar a month ago and are at threshold of a historic nomination. Now all three men are expected to find out whom Harris picks about the same time as the public, Chervinsky said. The breakneck speed of this process is the kind of thing that can lead to mistakes that Harris is hoping to avoid, said Michael Genovese, a presidential scholar at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. This is really a big test for (Harris) because not only is it the first big presidential decision, but it signals so many different things about who she is, what her goals are and what she expects to do as president, he said. Chervinsky said running mates can help provide a boost in their home state, but that hasnt worked out in recent elections. John Edwards couldnt help John Kerry win North Carolina in 2004 for the Democrats. Paul Ryan didnt deliver Wisconsin for Mitt Romney and the Republicans in 2012. Kelly brings a toughness on border-related matters and has the kind of appeal to centrists that could come in handy in the general election. His biography as a former Navy combat pilot and astronaut is compelling, too. Senator's finances: Mark Kelly's past business ties to Chinese tech firm explained His more moderate politics, however, isnt a hit with all labor unions and he isnt seen as a dynamic speaker. His position on national security and immigration would actually help Harris because for moderate voters who care about those things, he has expressed similar concerns, Chervinsky said. The potential downside Ive heard about Sen. Kelly is that while hes extraordinarily compelling on paper and obviously a very good person, hes not as much as an inspiring orator as the others. Genovese, who has written dozens of books on the presidency, including How Trump Governs, said Harris reputedly likes Kelly personally, a quality that cant be discounted in a competition that is so close anyway. That may be what tips the scales here because theres no perfect candidate, Genovese said. Shapiro can presumably help where Democrats may need it most: Pennsylvania. Its a state that Trump can still win without, but probably not Harris. It is unusual to see a 60% approval rating for anyone in this day and age. That is obviously very appealing, Chervinsky said of Shapiro. The Democrats needs in Pennsylvania are a very pressing concern that argues for Shapiro, she said. Shapiro is unusually popular in his state, but he may splinter Democratic factions with his rhetoric on Israel and the Palestinian cause for statehood during a time of war with Hamas. Walz brings a likeability and has a knack for talking about politics in a way that is effective and appeals to people in the Midwest. At the same time, he may be seen as adding too much liberalism to a ticket already featuring Harris, who will be painted as a San Francisco liberal. Hes not what you call an inveterate, career politician, Genovese said. Hes a little too liberal maybe and that may come back to haunt him but hes by all measures a really effective and popular governor. He didnt come out of nowhere, but he almost did. Whatever Harris decides, it is expected Tuesday to avoid difficulties qualifying for the ballot in Ohio. Harris is scheduled to begin a seven-stop tour across the country with her running mate beginning Tuesday in Philadelphia and including a Friday stop in Phoenix. If you look historically, the pick for vice president hardly ever matters except when it does, Genovese said. In 1960, he said, Lyndon Johnson likely helped John Kennedy win Texas and the White House with it. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Kamala Harris running mate: Is Mark Kelly still in the mix for VP? MARQUETTE, Mich. (WJMN) A man from Marquette faces numerous charges following a weekend home invasion. According to Marquette City Police, officers were called to a home on VanEvera Avenue around 5:19 am on Saturday for reports of an assault involving a handgun. This embedded content is not available in your region. Authorities say the gun was never fired but used to hit the victim multiple times in the head and face. The victim was later taken to the hospital. His condition was not made available. Police arrested River-Jordan Thomas Shumate as a result of the investigation. He has been charged with First Degree Home Invasion, Carrying a Weapon with Unlawful Intent, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, two Felony Weapons charges, and possession of cocaine. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJMN - UPMatters.com. MARSHALL COUNTY, Ala (WHNT) Authorities say a teen last seen Sunday who was considered missing and endangered has been found. MCSO said it was looking for 18-year-old Dominick Lager, who may be living with a condition that could impair their judgment. The sheriffs office said Lager was last seen on August 4, 2024, at around 3:30 a.m. MCSO said they were last seen wearing a red t-shirt, grey shorts, glasses and Sketchers sneakers in the area of Lakeview Circle in Grant. According to MCSO, Lager was found in good health in New Hampshire as of 4:42 p.m. on Tuesday. Lager is described as 54 tall and weighing around 230 Ibs. They have red or auburn hair and brown eyes. Authorities asked that anyone with any information on Lagers whereabouts should contact MCSO at (256) 582-2034 or call 911. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. Marshall says Google censors Trump assassination attempt info. Thats not how it works | Opinion With apologies to George Orwell, oppression doesnt always look like a boot stamping on a human face forever. Sometimes it looks like typing. Thats what Sen. Roger Marshall seems to think, anyway. The Kansas Republican is accusing Google of suppressing information about last months assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Why? Because in the first days after the attack users had to type out a full query something like assassination attempt on Donald Trump instead of getting an assist from the search engines autocomplete feature. The tech giant is engaged in censorship against conservative voices, the senator said last week. Confused? Dont worry. Conspiracy theories are often a bit of a muddle. Ill explain more in a bit. The important thing to know is that Marshall is leading a crusade against Google firing off an investigatory letter to the companys CEO and going on TV to accuse the company of election interference to undermine Trumps presidential campaign. They dont want to see President Trump viewed as a hero, which he was on that day, when he literally took a bullet, he stands up and he yells, Fight, fight, fight, Marshall told Foxs Stuart Varney last week. This is nonsense, for several reasons. First: Its hard to take Marshall seriously when he cries out about election interference. Remember, he started his Senate career with a vote in the hours after the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol against certifying Joe Bidens rightful victory in the 2020 presidential election. That was election interference. Second: Is there anybody in America who remains ignorant of the attack on Trump? Google couldnt suppress the news even if it tried. Third: Marshalls allegation relies on the notion that Americans looking for news about the attack cant and wont be bothered to write out their whole query into Googles search form. But the information is there, incredibly easy to find. The Kansas senator alleged on X that Google is suppressing information, using cherry-picked examples from last week. Propaganda wing of the Biden-Harris administration Youre probably familiar with Googles autocomplete feature, but a quick refresher for the uninitiated: The search engine tries to predict based on the behavior of its hundreds of millions of other users what youre looking for, to help speed up an already-almost instantaneous search process. Type in the words how do I, for example, and Google will start guessing before youve finished the rest of the sentence: How do I take a screenshot? How do I renew a passport? Sometimes the predictions are what you need. Sometimes not. If thats the case, you simply keep typing out your whole query and press enter. Google will immediately give you what youre looking for. It takes all of one or two seconds more to complete the task. After last months attack on Trump, MAGA conservatives started posting screenshots of assassination attempt inquiries on Googles search engine. Autocomplete didnt then suggest anything about Trump instead predicting that users were looking for information about old attacks on Harry Truman and the pope. Outrage ensued. One prominent conservative writer said autocompletes failure was Stalinist. Again: Those same users could have typed out a full phrase assassination attempt on Donald Trump instead of just typing assassination attempt and expecting Google to read their minds. They would have easily found all the information they were seeking. Too much to ask? Apparently. Stalinism, a friend of mine noted wryly, is having to complete the short sentence yourself and then click Search. For what its worth: Google officials told the Associated Press the search engine has built-in protections against autocomplete predictions involving political violence. You can debate the wisdom of that rule, but its certainly a simpler explanation than some grand conspiracy against the right. And for what its worth, the autocomplete function now offers Trump suggestions to assassination prompts at the top of its results. Marshall isnt buying it. Google, the largest Search Engine Operator in the world, has become a propaganda wing of the Biden-Harris Administration and the radical Left, he posted on X Thursday. Maybe. Or maybe Marshall and his Trumpist allies have fallen prey to a paranoid mindset that chooses to see every minuscule inconvenience as an attack on their beliefs, values and power. The truth is out there, Senator. Just keep typing. Joel Mathis is a regular Kansas City Star and Wichita Eagle Opinion correspondent. Formerly a writer and editor at Kansas newspapers, he served nine years as a syndicated columnist. (KRON) The Colma Police Department recovered several stolen belts from Marshalls last week, the department announced on its social media. At 1:18 p.m. on July 30, Colma PD responded to a Marshalls on Colma Boulevard due to a burglary. Police learned that a male suspect stole multiple belts and then fled on foot to Junipero Serra Boulevard. Officers located a man who fit the description walking near the corner of Colma Boulevard and Junipero Serra Boulevard. Police said the subject fled upon them speaking to him. He was detained after an on-foot chase. Marshalls loss prevention officers identified the subject as the thief. Violent crime spikes in Mission, leaving city leaders frustrated Photo: Colma Police Department Photo: Colma Police Department The suspect was identified as 18-year-old Oakland resident Leandro Gonzales. According to Colma PD, Gonzales shoplifted approximately $1,844.96 worth of belts. Gonzales was arrested and booked into the San Mateo County Jail for suspicion of burglary, grand theft and resisting arrest. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) The Massachusetts State Police (MSP) will be holding a child car seat check event at the Northampton Barracks. Local runner, Gabby Thomas, makes second appearance on Olympic stage Nearly half of all car seats in the United States are not installed correctly. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, using a car seat can reduce the risk of deadly injury for infants by 71% and toddlers by 54%. Its recommended that kids ages 2 to 4 have rear-facing car seats with a harness. To address this, these free child car seat installations and inspections will take place throughout the month from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. There will be three other free car seat checks in August taking place, such as: August 13th Russell Barracks August 20th Springfield Barracks August 27th Greenfield RMV These are walk-in events and no preregistration is required. If you are unable to attend, you can make an appointment for car seat installations or inspections by calling the MSP Traffic Programs Section at 774-462-3766. Latest Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Yahya Sinwar is the military leader of Hamas in Gaza and has been running the war against Israel from an underground bunker. - Mohammed Saber /EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Yahya Sinwar will be the new political leader of Hamas following the assassination of Ishmail Haniyeh in Tehran. Sinwar is the military leader of Hamas in Gaza and has been running the war against Israel from an underground bunker. Viewed by the Israelis as the mastermind of the Oct 7 attacks, he has been labelled a dead man walking by military chiefs. Commenting on the appointment of Sinwar to Saudi outlet Al-Arabia, Daniel Hagan, the Israel Defense Forces spokesman, said there is only one place for Yahya Sinwar, and it is beside Mohammed Deif and the rest of the Oct 7 terrorists. That is the only place were preparing and intending for him. Deif, viewed as Sinwars second in command, was killed in an Israeli air strike in Gaza last month. Sinwar, who has not appeared in public since Oct 7, will now become more powerful as the overall leader of Hamas. Having spent over 20 years in Israeli jail, he speaks fluent Hebrew and was even saved by Israeli surgeons who removed his brain tumour in 2004. Yahya Sinwar, right, with his predecessor Ismail Haniyeh at a rally in Gaza City in 2017 - Mohammed Saber/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Haniyeh was Hamass main negotiator in the ceasefire talks prior to his death in an explosion while visiting the Iranian capital last week and it is unclear how the fragile peace negotiations will be affected by the decision. The Hamas delegation negotiating a ceasefire with Israel will now be supervised by Sinwar. Osama Hamdan, a Hamas official based in Beirut, hailed the unanimous decision to appoint Sinwar as the new leader. Its too early to predict what the process will lead to, Hamdan added. Israel Katz, Israels foreign minister, said: The appointment of arch-terrorist Yahya Sinwar as the new leader of Hamas, replacing Ismail Haniyeh, is yet another compelling reason to swiftly eliminate him and wipe this vile organisation off the face of the earth. Choice was surprise to observers The decision by Hamass religious Shura council to appoint Sinwar is viewed as a surprise by experts in the Middle East who had speculated that Khaled Mashal, Haniyehs predecessor, would return as political leader. Khalil Al-Hayya, deputy leader of Hamass Gaza regional politburo, was considered an alternative option. Haniyeh was first elected political leader of Hamas in 2017 and was re-elected by the Shura council in 2021. While it is widely believed that Israel was behind the killing of Haniyeh, Benjamin Netanyahus government is yet to officially claim responsibility. Click here to view this content. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Jardine Matheson Holdings (SGX:J36) First Half 2024 Results Key Financial Results Revenue: US$17.3b (down 5.1% from 1H 2023). Net loss: US$40.0m (down by 107% from US$566.0m profit in 1H 2023). US$0.14 loss per share (down from US$1.95 profit in 1H 2023). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period Jardine Matheson Holdings EPS Beats Expectations, Revenues Fall Short Revenue missed analyst estimates by 75%. Earnings per share (EPS) was also behind analyst expectations. Looking ahead, revenue is forecast to grow 5.0% p.a. on average during the next 3 years, compared to a 7.1% growth forecast for the Industrials industry in Asia. Performance of the market in Singapore. The company's shares are down 2.9% from a week ago. Risk Analysis Don't forget that there may still be risks. For instance, we've identified 4 warning signs for Jardine Matheson Holdings that you should be aware of. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com The math behind why Harris picked Walz and why she may regret it Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz hadnt been in the top tier of potential running mates for Kamala Harris until the past few weeks. But his selection to join the vice president on the Democratic ticket underscores both the power of social media and of being relatively affable and nondivisive. So what took Walz from, nationally speaking, a relative unknown to major-party vice presidential nominee? You might just call the entire thing weird. Recall how Democrats started calling Republicans Donald Trump and JD Vance weird a few weeks ago. The attack might have felt like something out of high school, but the crazy thing is that it seems to have worked. A look at Google trend data reveals a recent increase in searches for the word weird. More than that, the topics associated with weird were Make America Great Again, the Republican Party, Vance and Walz. Why Walz? Hes been credited as the first one to have started calling Republicans weird in any large-scale way. And we know that the Harris campaign was paying attention because it fired off at least one email missive that suggested that the weird attacks against the Republican ticket were driving the online conversation. The fact that Harris selected a candidate who does well online shouldnt be surprising this is the campaign that has embraced coconut tree and brat. Harris has also done very well on TikTok, which is something Joe Bidens campaign couldnt do. But is the Walz pick indicative of a campaign that is too online? Thats a fair question given that Harris skipped over Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro in favor of Walz. Shapiro, who was long seen as a front-runner for the vice presidential pick, divided a lot of the online left over his perceived views on the Israelis and Palestinians. Notably, Walz shares many of those same views on the issue but received far less backlash than Shapiro, who is Jewish. The fact that Walz faced virtually no opposition from any of the major Democratic Party factions almost certainly helped him. After all, the Harris campaign has been riding a wave of good emotions since she became the presumptive Democratic nominee. Walzs nondivisive manner on a larger scale seemed to play on a smaller scale as well. Harris had good personal chemistry with him and particularly liked his happy go lucky attitude, according to CNN reporting. Getting along with a running mate and not potentially dividing the party with the choice is reason enough to pick someone. One of the first rules when it comes to a vice presidential pick is to Do no harm. Harris likely did no harm with this pick. Walz served 12 years in the US House and is currently in his second term as governor. He cant be attacked for having little experience, unlike his Republican counterpart Vance, who is the least liked vice presidential nominee coming out of his partys convention on record. A selection not without risk The big question now is whether Harris left points on the board by choosing Walz instead of Shapiro. Minnesota is likely not going to be competitive this fall. No Republican nominee for president has carried the state since 1972 its Democrats longest presidential winning streak (outside of Washington, DC). And polling in the North Star State since Harris entered the race has shown that the streak is likely to continue. Pennsylvania, on the other hand, is almost certainly a must-win state for Harris if she wants to be president. In fact, it is probably the most important swing state this cycle, and the polling there has been very tight. Shapiro currently holds a 61% favorable rating in Pennsylvania and outperformed Bidens 2020 baseline by 14 points in 2022. Whether that would have been enough to propel a Harris-Shapiro ticket in Pennsylvania this fall is a question mark, though political science literature suggests it very well could have. What we can say, though, is that Walz is not likely to help Harris with many swing voters. He did less than a point better than Biden in Minnesota when he won reelection in 2022. In fact, Shapiro seems to have done better with White voters without a college degree in Pennsylvania than Walz did with the same demographic in his state two years ago. And even if Walz had been an electoral juggernaut, it remains to be seen whether he can help the Democratic ticket outside his home state. If Harris ends up losing Pennsylvania and the election by a small margin, it will be one of historys great what-ifs. Did she not choose Shapiro because she was afraid of the online left? Harris, of course, is hoping the election wont be that close. She seems to have momentum, and the Walz pick will probably do nothing to impede it. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Aaron Dimmock faces an uphill battle to unseat U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz in the Aug. 20 Republican primary. Gaetz has gone into full campaign mode against Dimmock, a retired Navy officer and director of the Missouri Leadership Academy, in Florida's First Congressional District. With the level of campaign ads from both sides, it might appear that its a competitive race, but there's no doubt that Dimmock is running a long-shot candidacy against Gaetz. Last month, the website Florida Politics published a poll showing Gaetz with a 47-point lead over the relatively unknown Dimmock. The poll was done by Fabrizio, Lee, and Associates, a Republican polling firm, and had a margin of error of plus or minus 4.9%. Gaetz hasn't been seriously challenged since he was first elected to the seat in 2016, beating out a field of six other candidates in the Republican primary. In each primary since 2016, Gaetz has won with more than 60% of Republican voters' support. Gaetz closest primary challenge was in 2018 against Cris Dosev, who got 30% of the vote, the most of any candidate to challenge Gaetz since 2016. Despite Gaetz's track record of wins, he doesn't appear to be taking anything for granted. Gaetz has hit Dimmock with advertisements blasting Dimmock for ties to Missouri, including being an active full-time employee of the state, and capitalizing on a previous LinkedIn post about promoting diversity and inclusion. Dimmock has had help to hit back against Gaetz, with Florida Patriots PAC running advertisements highlighting the allegations of sexual misconduct against Gaetz. Gaetz has denied the allegations, and after a federal probe into them officials declined to press charges. A House Ethics Committee investigation is still underway. The committee doesn't have to disclose its donors under federal campaign laws, but former Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who blames Gaetz for removing him from his position last year, publicly endorsed Dimmock in an interview with Politico in May. Aaron Dimmock "Kevin McCarthy found a person called Aaron Dimmock who on the day he qualified to run against me, he used his Missouri driver's license as his form of ID, and on his LinkedIn, the day he qualified against me he had (a picture of) the arches of St. Louis," Gaetz said during a campaign kickoff rally in Fort Walton Beach in June. Dimmock told the News Journal that he's never talked with McCarthy and learned of his support when he read the Politico article in May. "It's awesome to have his support but that's the extent of relationship and communication I've had with him," Dimmock said. Dimmock said he moved to Northwest Florida in September 2023 to take a position with the University of West Florida's Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz Center for Leadership. He also remained director of a similar program in Missouri. He said he was monitoring local politics, and when it looked like no one was going to file against Gaetz, he felt like he had to jump in the race. "When no one had opted in to run against him that just did not sit well with me," Dimmock said. "I did not want a person who has demonstrated the behaviors he has consistently demonstrated for an extended period of time to have no primary and presumably walk right through the general to another two years in office." Dimmock resigned from his position with UWF to run but is still a full-time employee with Missouri. Gaetz has attacked Dimmock for being an employee of another state while running for office in Florida. The attacks have gotten the attention of a Republican candidate for governor in Missouri, who has called for an investigation into Dimmock being employed while a resident of another state. "I live here in Pensacola, and I work remotely and go up to Jefferson City a couple of days out of the month to help direct the governor's leadership academy," Dimmock said. "And that's to work with emerging leaders within the executive branch for the state of Missouri." Dimmock said he kept his job in Missouri to provide for his wife and four children while he ran for office. Dimmock said his ties to Pensacola date back to 1996 when he came here to study flight school after graduating from the Naval Academy. "Through my service to country, I served in different places domestically and abroad," Dimmock said. "Three of our four children have been born in Florida. My mom, brother, aunt, and uncle actually live here in Pensacola. And I'm glad that Congressman Gaetz never had to be away from his family or deploy to places like the Middle East, places I've been, and other military servicemembers. But my military service and the service of millions of other military residents doesn't make me or them any less of a Floridian than him, and we're proud to call Florida home." Gaetz has also attacked Dimmock for his work in leadership training in the private sector, jumping on Dimmock's LinkedIn post in 2020, where he shared a post by the leadership training company he worked for at the time that pledged to become a more inclusive company and used the hashtag "#blacklivesmatter." Dimmock added his own comment to the post, "We remain committed to making it better." Gaetz used the post to label Dimmock as an instructor of "diversity, equality, and inclusion," or DEI, which has become a derogatory term in Republican politics over the last year. "Those words on their own don't really sound bad, but put together, this is a dangerous ideology that is hurting our military. It is hurting our country," Gaetz said in June. "And what I know about Northwest Floridians, is that we still believe in the statements and the vision of Martin Luther King Jr. that we judge people based on the content of their character, not the color of their skin." Dimmock said Gaetz has distorted his past statements and he does not support the Black Lives Matter movement; he supports everyone willing and able to work. "I grew up professionally in service through our military, which is a meritocracy, where the most capable people, those with the talent and capacity to do the job are the ones that actually get promoted and rise throughout the ranks," Dimmock said. "I truly believe it should stay that way and be the case in all organizations." In a campaign rally on Monday in Milton, Gaetz laid out all the attacks against Dimmock to loud applause and equated DEI to "anti-white racism." "We don't believe in DEI in Northwest Florida, and we're going to send the DEI instructor Aaron Dimmock back to Missouri on Aug. 20," Gaetz said. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Matt Gaetz v Aaron Dimmock Florida's First Congressional District. A McConnellsburg woman died as the result of injuries suffered in an accident Friday evening, Aug. 2, at the intersection of U.S. 30 and Route 75 in Peters Township. Connie L. Seville, 64, was pronounced dead at the scene of the 7:26 p.m. accident near the Village of Fort Loudon. Her passenger, Marcy H. Bishop, 36, also of McConnellsburg, was flown to Hershey Medical Center with suspected serious injuries, according to Pennsylvania State Police. Seville was eastbound on U.S. 30, also known as Lincoln Way West, when police said she failed to stop for a red light. Her 2019 Chevrolet Cruze entered the intersection into the path of a 2012 Dodge Caravan driven by Daniel Macintyre, 49, of Spring Run, who was northbound on Route 75, also known as Fort Loudon Road. Attorney general investigating: Former Franklin County nurse charged in connection with Chambersburg patient's death The van hit the front drivers side of Sevilles car. Both Seville and Bishop had to be cut from the wreckage, police said. Macintyre was medically evaluated and cleared at the scene. This article originally appeared on Waynesboro Record Herald: Connie Seville, McConnellsburg, dies in Fort Loudon crash Grand Blanc-based McLaren Health Care was hit by "a disruption" to its information technology platforms and telephone systems, affecting all 13 of its Michigan hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, physician offices and more, the health system said in a statement issued Tuesday. "We are working to determine the extent of the disruption and do not have a timeframe to restore functionality. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause our patients," the statement said. Grand Blanc-based McLaren Health Care was hit by "a disruption" to its information technology platforms and telephone systems, affecting all 13 of its Michigan hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, physician offices and more. The health system, which includes the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, advised patients with scheduled appointments to continue to keep those appointments unless they are contacted by an employee and are told they must be rescheduled. "Out of an abundance of caution, some non-emergent or elective procedures may be rescheduled," McLaren said in an updated statement released Tuesday afternoon. "Our team will work diligently with any patient who has an appointment rescheduled. "During this disruption, we are also requesting patients bring any of the following information they might have to their appointments: A list of current medication or empty prescription bottles. Printed physician orders for imaging studies or treatments. Printed results of recent lab tests. A list of allergies. "We understand this situation may be frustrating to our patients and our team members and we deeply and sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause." Some McLaren websites, including those for its two health insurance plans McLaren Health Plan and McLaren Health Advantage were down Tuesday. Patients told the Free Press they're having difficulty scheduling appointments, getting test results and answers to medical questions. Ambulances were temporarily diverted from the McLaren Port Huron Hospital, but spokesperson David Jones told the Free Press that emergency medical services resumed bringing patients to the hospital on Tuesday morning. Jones did not answer whether the disruption is causing a delay in imaging or blood test results or whether this tech disruption was caused by a cyberattack. He said: "Additional updates with confirmed information will follow." A McLaren employee, who spoke to the Free Press on the condition of anonymity out of concern for job repercussions, said the problems began Monday morning. Since, some departments have been forced to completely shut down and workers have been told they must use paid time off during the work stoppage. Those who don't have any more accrued vacation time will go unpaid. "I have no other income," the worker said. "This is awful, for sure. (It's) not the employees' fault." This is the second major tech disruption at McLaren in the last year. In late August 2023, a ransomware attack led the health system to shut down its computer network and potentially leaked some patient data onto the dark web. A ransomware gang known as BlackCat/AlphV claimed responsibility for the August 2023 cyberattack, posting online that it stole 6 terabytes of McLaren's data, including the personal information of 2.5 million patients. "It will be one of the biggest leaks of all time," BlackCat/AlphV wrote in the posts. "Our backdoor is still running on your network." More: McLaren ransomware attack may have leaked patient data to dark web More: Cyberattack hits Ascension hospitals' computer networks: 'It's affecting everything' Cyberattacks and the data breaches that often accompany them are a growing problem in health care, not only exposing the protected health data of patients but also affecting the ability to provide health care. Last year alone, 725 data breaches were reported to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights and more than 133 million records containing protected health data were exposed, according to the HIPAA Journal. A cybersecurity breach in May that struck all 140 Ascension hospitals in the U.S., including in Michigan, forced the Catholic, nonprofit health system to postpone or cancel some appointments, divert ambulances to other hospitals and cut off electronic access to medical records, lab test results, radiology imaging and even impaired the ability for doctors to issue medical orders. Contact Kristen Shamus: kshamus@freepress.com. Subscribe to the Free Press. Were gathering insights on artificial intelligence and would love to hear from you. Take this short survey and help us understand your views. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: New tech 'disruption' strikes 13 McLaren hospitals in Michigan As Tropical Storm Debby continues to hover along the South Carolina coast, flooding and at least one tornado have ensued, according to state officials. More problems are expected. Gov. Henry McMaster and other state officials updated the public Tuesday on conditions in South Carolina following Tropical Storm Debby hitting the coast Monday evening. Despite damage along the states coastline, including from a tornado in Edisto Beach, no injuries or fatalities have so far been reported, McMaster said. But he warned that the threat of severe flooding across the state remains high. We have not had any reports of any fatalities, and we hope that it stays like that, McMaster said. We want to urge people, again, to be safe. Think about what youre doing. Dont take any chances and remember this water can be very dangerous, particularly when its moving. McMaster said he hasnt ordered any evacuations nor is he aware of any localities ordering any. Still, the governor is cautioning residents about the amount of rainfall Debby is likely to cause. Were confident theres going to be flooding and a lot of rain, McMaster said. The question is how much is it going to be. While winds from the storm have not reached hurricane strength in South Carolina, John Quagliariello of the National Weather Service in Columbia said threatening flash flooding is ongoing, which has closed roadways and resulted in some water rescues. Weve already experienced significant rainfall, with widespread nine to 13 inches across southern South Carolina, Quagliariello said. Winds blew down a significant number of trees, he said. Among the strongest winds were 63 mph at Folly Beach, 59 mph at Battery Point in Charleston County, and 56 mph at Isle of Palms. So far, reports of damage to residential properties and businesses have been very few, according to S.C. Emergency Management Division Director Kim Stenson. Colleton County did report that theyve had probably about 50 houses that had been damaged to some extent, Stenson said. Many counties are reporting blocked roads and localized flooding in coastal counties. Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane in the Big Bend area of Florida Monday at 7 a.m., according to the National Weather Service. The states public information phone system opened Tuesday morning. Residents are encouraged to call 1-866-256-0133 for any questions related to the storm. (Getty Images) The measles outbreak that started in mid-June in Marion County, Oregon, where the state capital of Salem is located, has spread to at least 23 residents in three counties. And its probably not over. We continue to see cases, and we have not been able to connect them all, suggesting that there are other cases out there, said Dr. Paul Cieslak, the Oregon Health Authoritys medical director and top immunologist. Only one person in the outbreak has been vaccinated and two people have been hospitalized, the health authority said. Cases of pertussis or whooping cough also are spreading, with seven cases reported during the week of July 21, bringing the years total to more than 400. The virus has infected people in 13 Oregon counties this year. With the start of the school year looming, the health authority urged parents to get their kids up to date on their vaccinations. Measles and whooping cough vaccines are required for the nearly 550,000 children attending kindergarten through high school in Oregon, though parents can obtain a non-medical exemption if they watch an online training module or talk to a provider and have them sign a certificate. Cieslak said the measles vaccine is particularly effective: One dose is 93% effective at preventing an infection and two doses are 97% effective. The measles virus does not mutate significantly the way other viruses like COVID do, Cieslak said. In 2000, the World Health Organization said it was eradicated in the U.S. But with foreign travel and unvaccinated people, its re-emerged. This is the highest number of cases in Oregon for several years. There was only one case last year and none the previous three years, state data shows. Oregon has traditionally had among the highest unvaccinated rates in the country. In May the health authority said that nearly 9% of the states kindergartners had a nonmedical exemption this year, forgoing at least one required shot. That compares with about 8% in 2023 and almost 7% in 2022, marking the second consecutive yearly increase in the unvaccinated rate. Besides Oregon, there are nearly 170 measles cases in other states, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The outbreak emerged last month. The Oregon Health Authority reported that an adult in Clackamas County developed a rash on June 11 and that a child subsequently got sick as well. More cases appeared among unvaccinated children who apparently had not been in contact, health officials said. To date, there are eight cases in Clackamas County, 13 people in Marion County and two in Multnomah County, with 10 younger than 10 years, eight teens and five adults. The disease is highly infectious. It spreads in the air when someone coughs or sneezes and the viral particles can linger in the air for two hours. Symptoms can begin up to three weeks after exposure and can include flu-like symptoms and a rash that appears on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Patients can develop ear infections, lung infections and diarrhea. The disease can also cause swelling of the brain and be fatal. One of two of every 1,000 cases are fatal. Two of the people infected in Oregon have been hospitalized. The health authority did not provide any more information about who they were or how severe their symptoms were or whether theyve been discharged. Nearly 50% of people with measles across the country have been hospitalized this year, sometimes to prevent them from spreading the virus, the CDC said. Eighty-five percent were not vaccinated. People who are pregnant and not vaccinated, infants younger than 1 and those with weakened immune systems face the greatest health risk from measles and whooping cough. Whooping cough is more prevalent than measles, with 10,000 cases reported nationwide before COVID hit. During the pandemic, cases dropped as people tried to avoid respiratory infections. But theyre now on the rise, approaching pre-pandemic levels, the CDC said. In Oregon, Lane County has had the most cases this year 123 followed by 77 in Multnomah County and 57 in Clackamas. Cases peaked this year in May, with 115 reported. That dropped to 92 in June. This article was first published by the Oregon Capital Chronicle, part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@oregoncapitalchronicle.com. Follow Oregon Capital Chronicle on Facebook and X. MECHANICSBURG, Pa. (WHTM) A new Mediterranean restaurant franchise will soon be opening its doors inside a Cumberland County shopping center. Representatives of Cava Mediterranean recently confirmed that they will soon be opening a new restaurant location in Mechanicsburg. According to Bennett Williams Commercial Real Estates website, the new Cava Mediterranean will soon come to occupy a 2,565 square foot space inside the Beltway Towne Centre in Mechanicsburg, located at 5401 Carlisle Pike. Cava Mediterranean, which offers a wide variety of Mediterranean-style cuisines, was first founded by Ike Grigoropoulos, Chef Dimitri Moshovitis, Ted Xenohristos back 2010; alongside co-founder Brett Schulman. According to their website, Cava Mediterranean currently has locations across 26 states, which includes eight restaurants right here in Pennsylvania. Its important to note that there is only one location here in the Midstate, which can be found in Lancaster County on 1569 Fruitville Pike. If you are interested in checking out Cava Mediterraneans full menu, you can click here. It is still unknown when the new eatery will officially open its doors. abc27 news will keep you updated as more information becomes available. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. TechCrunch Physics Wallah, an Indian edtech startup, has secured $210 million in fresh financing amid a tough funding environment for edtech companies in the country following the collapse of Byju's, once the biggest company in the space. Physics Wallah said on Friday the Series B round was led by the hedge fund Hornbill Capital, a venture between China's Orchid Asia and India's Hornbill, with Lightspeed Ventures Partners "significantly" participating, alongside existing backers WestBridge and GSV. The round values Physics Wallah at $2.8 billion, a substantial increase from the previous $1.1 billion valuation it scored in June 2022. TEXARKANA, Texas (KTAL/KMSS) Restoration of Hope is a faith-based organization that helps those who have been incarcerated or are recovering from addiction transition back into the community. We provide a place of refuge for many men who may not have a place to go upon discharge or suffer from homelessness, says Hunter Tidwell, the Work Therapy Coordinator with Restoration of Hope. They also operate a construction company that helps fund their work. We do have a few community partners that help us with monthly support, but most of the work that we do is what keeps our ministry supported, says Tidwell. More: Texarkana News The construction company also provides jobs for those who complete their program and allows them to give back to the community in times of need. Weve hurt so many people in our community through our addiction and the things that we did when we were in our addiction. So what better way to give back than to go out and help those who weve done wrong, says Tidwell. That chance to do good in their community came when the Beverly neighborhood was hit by a tornado that spawned from Hurricane Beryl nearly one month ago. So kind of just we took a whole crew of men that night when the storm come through. We were out there tarp and we tarped the Damascus Home resale shop, a Whataburger, says Tidwell. Weve seen homes that had limbs and trees blocking their driveways and roadways. We helped clear all of that out. Some homes and businesses are still recovering. Their construction company is currently planning to repair the roof of Damascus Home. Damascus Home resale shop is a ministry that helps support Straight Street, which is another mens ministry here locally, says Tidwell. So we are working on the mitigation with the insurance company to see how we can better assist in that area. They say there has been an outpouring of gratitude for the work they have already accomplished. Weve had people send us cards, weve had some women bring us a cake by. I mean, its just been very rewarding to see how grateful they were to us, says Tidwell. However, for some members of the organization, the chance to make up for past mistakes is its own reward. I have a past of addiction and people in this community that have hurt. And so, you know, being where I am at now is very rewarding to be able to give back to my community. says Tidwell. Restoration of Hope always needs the communitys support through monetary donations or even clothing and hygiene products. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. The Russian government has reportedly blocked Anadolu Efes move to buy Anheuser-Busch InBevs stake in their Russian joint venture. A government commission, chaired by finance minister Anton Siluanov is said to have stopped the deal from going through in a meeting on 20 June, according to local newspaper RBC. Sources close to the matter did not specify the reasons for the refusal, RBC reported. The deal agreed last December would see Efes Brewing International, a subsidiary of Anadolu Efes, acquire AB InBevs 50% share of their AB InBev Efes venture. However, in a statement to Turkeys stock exchange today (6 August), Anadolu Efes said there [has] been news in the media indicating that the transaction was rejected by the regulatory bodies; however, we have not received any official response as such. It added: "As formerly stated, the completion of the transaction was contingent upon obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals. The legal process was initiated on December 19, 2023." The Efes Pilsen producer suspended trading earlier today in Istanbul before releasing its statement. The Russian Ministry of Finance and AB InBev could not be reached for comment at the time of writing. When the deal was agreed upon last year, AB InBev said no amount will be paid on closing but added: Any payments received by ABI after completion will be subject to additional regulatory approvals and are expected to be not material. In a separate filing in Turkey, Anadolu Efes indicated a valuation had been set at between $1.1bn and $1.3bn. According to Bloomberg, the valuation had been set by KPMG after a request from Anadolu Efes. The filing added: EBI shall not make an immediate cash payment upon completion of the transaction and any future payments shall be determined based on the annual cash flow performance of AB InBev Efes BVs operating countries and related regulatory restrictions for a certain and reasonable period of time. AB InBev and Anadolu Efes formed the AB InBev Efes joint venture in 2018. The business has 11 breweries in Russia, selling beer under brands including Klinskoe and Efes Pilsen. In April 2022, weeks after Russia invaded Ukraine, the Belgium-based brewer announced its intent to sell its shareholding in the venture and the start of talks with Anadolu Efes. As part of the negotiations, the production and sales of flagship brand Budweiser, marketed as Bud in Russia, stopped. AB InBev booked a $1.1bn non-cash impairment charge in the non-underlying share of results of associates as part of its results for the first quarter of 2022. Story continues "Kremlin blocks AB InBev Russian operation sale to Anadolu Efes" was originally created and published by Just Drinks, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. (Bloomberg) -- Meta Platforms Inc. said it was sorry about removing Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahims posts on its platforms that paid tribute to a top Hamas political leader who was killed last month. Most Read from Bloomberg We apologize for an operational error where content from the Prime Ministers Facebook and Instagram Pages were removed, and the content has since been restored with the correct newsworthy label, a Meta spokesperson said Tuesday in a statement. A live stream of a rally Anwar attended on Aug. 4 also was briefly halted due to an intellectual-property complaint related to music, the statement said. Anwar spoke at a pro-Palestinian rally in Kuala Lumpur that drew thousands then. Malaysian government officials met with Meta representatives on Monday and later issued a missive calling the removal discriminatory, unjust and a blatant suppression of free expression. It is also seen as an affront to the legitimate struggle of the Palestinian people in their pursuit of justice and human rights, the government said, demanding a public apology. Ismail Haniyeh, who was in his early 60s, was based in Qatar and key to the cease-fire talks between Israel and Hamas. He was killed in Tehran in July. Iran has blamed Israel for the attack. Israel hasnt confirmed or denied responsibility. Malaysia doesnt recognize Israel as a sovereign state and the two countries have no diplomatic ties. Anwar met with a Hamas delegation led by Haniyeh during a visit to Qatar in May in a show of support for the group thats been designated a terrorist organization by the US. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. ST. LOUIS, Mo. A Mexican national appeared in federal court in downtown St. Louis on Tuesday and admitted being in the country illegally after a road rage shooting in 2021. Prosecutors with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Missouri said Donnovan Mallen, 21, pleaded guilty to illegal entry and unlawful possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. The St. Charles Police Department responded to a shooting in the 1500 block of Beale Street on Feb. 26, 2021, when they found Mallen and a Dodge Charger with a shattered rear window. Prosecutors said Mallen initially denied having any involvement with the shooting. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News After further investigation, Mallen admitted to police that while he was driving to work, a vehicle followed him and fired four shots at his vehicle. Mallen said he fired his own gun once into the air after being shot at. Police found a loaded 10 mm semi-automatic pistol under the front passenger seat of Mallens Dodge Charger. Mallen later admitted to buying the pistol for protection from an acquaintance for $750 and a fake identification card for $150 to obtain employment. Prosecutors said there is no record of Mallen lawfully entering the U.S. and that he held a fraudulent Permanent Resident Card and Social Security Card. Mallen will be sentenced on November 5. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. Mexico requests jailed Ecuador ex-VP Glas to be able to leave country Ecuador's Vice President Jorge Glas talks during an interview with Reuters at the Government Palace in Quito MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -The Mexican government said on Monday that it had submitted a request to allow Ecuador's jailed former Vice President Jorge Glas to be able to go to a third country. Mexico broke relations with Ecuador in April after Ecuadorean authorities forcefully entered Mexico's embassy in the country to arrest Glas, to whom Mexico had granted asylum. Mexico's foreign ministry also said in a statement that while the request was pending, it also asked Ecuador free Glas from jail and be taken to a "safe place" due to his health. Glas attempted suicide in April after his arrest, his lawyer said. An Ecuadorean court ruled that the detention was illegal, but that Glas must remain in jail due to his previous convictions. Glas was twice convicted of corruption and is now facing fresh charges. Mexico severed relations with Ecuador over the embassy break-in in April, and has tapped Switzerland to handle its diplomatic work with the South American nation. (Reporting by Diego Ore; Writing by Kylie Madry; Editing by Sarah Morland) In the race for the District 3 seat on the Miami-Dade County Commission, voters this month will have the rare choice of two candidates theyve already elected for that post. The Miami-area contest pits the incumbent, Commissioner Keon Hardemon, against his predecessor, Audrey Edmonson, who gave up her commission seat in 2020 due to the countys newly enacted term-limit rules. While commissioners are now limited to a pair of consecutive four-year terms, the rules dont bar them from running again once theyve been out of office. Edmonson, 71, is the first term-limited former commissioner to take that path, adding an extra dimension of political intrigue to a race between two longtime rivals. READ MORE: Term limits finally arriving for Miami-Dade commission, and a new chair has concerns Both are trying to claim the better legacy from serving as the commissioner for District 3, which stretches from downtown Miami north into Miami Shores, and includes the predominantly Black neighborhoods of Brownsville, Liberty City and Overtown. Youre either voting for the past, and going back to conditions that were unbearable, Hardemon, 40, said at a July 23 forum put on by the Miami Foundation. Or youre voting for the future and for a community you can have pride in. Miami-Dade Commissioner Keon Hardemon is running for reelection in the Aug. 20 election for District 3. Edmonson is counting on voters remorse after four years with Hardemon representing District 3 on the 13-seat commission. Im back by popular demand, Edmonson said at the forum. The current commissioner is not accessible. Hes not there for the community. Former Miami-Dade commissioner Audrey Edmonson is running for the District 3 seat she once held on the county board. Hardemon faces a second challenger in Marion Brown, the 59-year-old owner of a construction business that specializes in work at landfills. Brown said hes not a fan of Hardemon and wanted to dampen development in District 3 before more long-time residents leave. Keon is not doing a great job. Hes let the community down, Brown said in an interview. My main thing is slowing down gentrification. Marion Brown is a candidate for the District 3 seat on the Miami-Dade County Commission this year. With three candidates in the race, the contest could stretch into November. If no candidate gets more than 50% of the vote on Aug. 20, the top two finishers will compete in a run-off on Election Day. As an incumbent and chair of the commission committee that oversees Miami International Airport, Hardemon holds a steep fund-raising advantage over his challengers. Campaign finance records show he has raised more than $1.3 million over the last four years. Edmonsons war chest is a mystery, as she hasnt disclosed the political committees shes using to bankroll her election effort. A press release from April announced more than $100,000 raised for her campaign account and political committees supporting her re-election bid, but Edmonson declined to identify the committees. Unlike Hardemon, she has not filled out a disclosure form Miami-Dade requires candidates to file if they are raising money for political committees. Her campaign account shows $45,000 raised since she entered the race in February. Brown reported raising about $2,500. READ MORE: With zero ballots cast, three Miami-Dade commissioners get four more years in office Edmonson, a grandmother, and Hardemon, who is raising two school-age children with his wife, both point to gun violence as a priority, and each said they would expand on prior efforts. In 2021, Hardemon sponsored legislation that funded Mayor Daniella Levine Cavas plan for countywide summer jobs program and other neighborhood anti-violence and prosperity programs with $8 million in upfront money from crypto giant FTXs sponsorship deal for the county-owned arena where the Miami Heat play. Instead of preaching at these kids and telling them not to do drugs and not to commit crimes, we actually put money in their pockets, Hardemon said at the forum. When FTX collapsed after federal fraud charges hit top executives, the commission shifted funding for the Peace and Prosperity Plan to dollars from the replacement naming-rights sponsor, Kaseya. The ongoing plan has county dollars for grants across Miami-Dade, but steers more dollars to District 3 and other commission districts with higher incidents of gun violence. Edmonson countered with a promise to use the District 3 seat as a way to mediate directly with sources of violence in the neighborhoods a strategy she said was promising while she was in office. We were meeting with the gang leaders, she said. As well as waiting outside their doors. Brown said he would use the District 3 seat to get more club owners to hire off-duty police and get the community more invested in curbing violence by young people. Neighbors to neighbors, Brown said. Brown said he has the insight for a practical effort on neighborhood safety. His court history includes some arrests in the 1990s, a record the married grandfather chalks up to a long-ago phase in which he was with the wrong people at the wrong time. He said hes eager to use a commission seat for a broad approach to reducing violence among young men. I want the community to be a part of this, he said. The community will help. Edmonson is a former El Portal mayor who became a Miami-Dade commissioner in 2005. In 2012 she beat back a challenge by Hardemon, then a public defender in his late 20s. Hardemon went on to win a seat on the Miami City Commission the next year, a post he held until winning his County Commission race four years ago. After leaving the commission in 2020, Edmonson briefly ran for Congress against incumbent Democrat Frederica Wilson, but dropped out before the 2022 primary. Both Edmonson and Hardemon see their commission action on housing development as a reason for voters to trust them in 2024. I was born in public housing. I care greatly, and deeply, about the status of public housing in our community, Hardemon said. He said the ongoing push to attach both subsidized and market-rate housing to public housing complexes when theyre redeveloped will help keep the middle class in District 3. Without that, younger residents who secure professional jobs find themselves without options. Whats important is we build housing for everyone, he said. Housing that doesnt give you a stigma for living in a certain development. On the issue of neighborhood improvement, he also pointed to legislation he sponsored to improve neighborhoods, including turning over county land to stabilize and preserve the Lincoln Memorial Park park cemetery in Brownsville. It really turned the cemetery from an eyesore to something that is a beauty to see, he said. All it took was better leadership. Edmonson said voters continue to see the results from county-backed housing developments approved while she was on the commission. I did a lot of affordable housing in the community so people could have a decent place to live, she said. I was known as the housing guru. I built a lot for our community, and I left a lot in the queue. The aging incinerator that burned down last year in Doral processed half of Miami-Dades trash, forcing the county to ship the garbage some 100 miles north. If all goes to plan, it could be replaced by what is billed as the largest waste-to-energy facility ever built in the United States. The controversial question about where it will go, however, remains undecided. AtkinsRealis, the countys consulting firm for the project, on Tuesday unveiled preliminary designs for a facility that would handle 50 percent more waste than the one burned beyond repair in February 2023. That older generation waste-to-energy operation burned nearly 100 million tons of trash a year but also drew constant complaints from neighbors about foul smells. The new one, estimated to cost $1.5 billion, would potentially be capable of turning 4,000 tons a day of trash into electricity and alternative fuels. There also is potential for the county to add carbon capture technology to make it a net zero facility, reducing emissions that fuel climate change, the consulting firm said. Were perfectly positioned to continue to support our long-standing client with the development of a green mixed-use industrial campus that creates renewable energy, said Steve Morriss, president of AtkinsRealis in a press release. The company has a 10-year, $65 million contract with Miami-Dade to oversee permitting and whatever contractor is eventually selected to build the facility. Map from county memo on where the different sites are located. The firm released conceptual renderings for the first time to the public but did not discuss the design in detail. It also said the plant would also be one of the newest waste-to-energy facilities in the country only one other has been built in the last 20 years. READ MORE: Where will the next Miami-Dade incinerator go? Consultant report rates sites Theres still debate and a difficult political decision about where the facility will go, with most cities in Miami-Dade not wanting it in their backyard because of past complaints of smells, water and air quality surrounding incinerators, including the one operated by Covanta Energy in Doral. In a statement sent Tuesday to the Herald, the office of Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said the a lot of steps remain before selecting a final design and site. We want to be clear that Miami-Dade County has not made a final decision about where to place a new Waste-to-Energy facility, or the final scope of the project, and we remain committed to approaching this process as methodically as possible with the opportunity for thorough evaluation of all possible sites and input from residents and stakeholders across the community, the statement said. A report released in May by another county consultant that analyzed three potential sites at the original Doral location, at the defunct Opa-locka West Airport and in an industrial tract in Medley only added fuel to the fire of the ongoing debate. None of the residents in nearby communities support it, despite the fact that the new technology is reputedly greener, cleaner and far less smelly. Each site, the report found, had its pros and cons. The city of Miramar, for one, has threatened to sue if it was placed at the Airport West site near the Broward County line. Some environmental groups also campaigned against another incinerator. The non-profit organization, Flordia Rising, protested for the county to innovate not incinerate and wanted the county to look into more organic options like composting. It would be the Tampa-based consulting firms third alternative fuel program in the state, but its first waste-to-energy facility. AtkinsRealis has also worked with other Florida clients in the past, including FDEM, FDOT, FTE, Miami-Dade Aviation and Port Miami. There is no timeline yet for when the county will decide on a site or when construction might start. Ashley Miznazi is a climate change reporter for the Miami Herald funded by the Lynn and Louis Wolfson II Family Foundation in partnership with Journalism Funding Partners. Is your Miami hospital up for sale? What these next steps mean for patients and care Palmetto General, North Shore Medical Center, Coral Gables and other South Florida hospitals are up for sale, part of owner Steward Health Care Systems plan to thin debt through Chapter 11 bankruptcy. And the future of the hospitals and what it will mean for patients and employees could be decided this month. Bid deadline is Aug. 12 for buyers interested in Steward Healths Florida hospitals, with an auction set for Aug. 14, and a court hearing to finalize the sales on Aug. 22, court records show. In South Florida, the hospitals for sale are Palmetto General Hospital in Hialeah, Coral Gables Hospital, Hialeah Hospital, North Shore Medical Center in Miami-Dade and Florida Medical Center in Lauderdale Lakes. Other Florida hospitals on the market are Melbourne Regional Medical Center, Rockledge Regional Medical Center and Sebastian River Medical. All of the hospitals remain open. READ NEXT: Why a healthcare giant has slowed care at a Miami hospital, and where it leaves patients Steward Health has moved quickly to sell all 31 of its U.S. hospitals since filing for bankruptcy protection in May, though it has previously delayed bid deadlines and sale hearings for its hospitals and physician group. The initial bid deadline for its Florida hospitals was originally in late July. Steward Health has previously indicated that it wants to emerge from bankruptcy as a more stable company focused on its Florida market. But first, it needs to reduce debt. As of Monday, the bid deadline for its Florida hospitals appears to be on track. Heres what the possible hospital sales could mean for patients and employees: What happens if Steward Health sells its Florida hospitals? What happens to Stewards hospitals depends on whether the company can find buyers, and if so, what the buyer wants to do with the properties. Its possible Stewards Florida hospitals will be sold to investors that want to continue offering healthcare. Hospitals could also be sold and converted to another type of business or be sold for their land and torn down for development, according to John McDonough, a professor of the practice of public health at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. McDonough has kept tabs on the Steward Health Care saga and spoke generally about how bankruptcy tends to work for healthcare systems during a recent interview with the Miami Herald. The facilities that cater to underserved populations tend to become the most vulnerable in these circumstances, McDonough previously told the Miami Herald. One possible complication for the sales: Steward sold all of its South Florida real estate to Medical Properties Trust in 2021, and is now paying rent to operate its hospitals on the properties it used to own. It did the same thing with its other hospitals across the country. That means any potential buyer for a Steward hospital will need to make a deal with the hospital landlord to lease or purchase the properties, according to WBUR, the NPR affiliate in Boston. While its too soon to know what will happen in Florida, Stewards attorney, in discussing the expected sale of some of the Massachusetts hospitals during a court hearing on Tuesday, said Medical Property Trust and its co-owner Macquarie Asset Management had agreed to turn over the Massachusetts properties they own to their lender to facilitate sales of the properties to new owners, according to the station. What happens if Steward Health cant sell all of its Florida hospitals? If Steward Health cant sell all of its Florida hospitals, the company could ask the court for more time to find buyers or to let it keep operating the unsold hospitals. Attorneys for the for-profit health system have previously said in court that Stewards Florida hospitals were the most profitable in its portfolio. Its been our stated goal since our initial filing to emerge from Chapter 11 as a smaller but stronger version of Steward, with our business centered around our Florida systems, Steward Health previously told the Miami Herald in an emailed statement. Steward Health could also decide to close unsold hospitals, like in Massachusetts. The healthcare system recently announced that it will be closing two Massachusetts hospitals after failing to find buyers with qualified bids for the facilities, with more than 1,200 layoffs expected. The company found buyers for its other Massachusetts hospitals, but the sales were delayed due to a dispute between Steward Health and landlords Medical Properties Trust and Macquarie Asset Management, Reuters reported. The health giants hospital sales are happening while it undergoes a federal investigation for possible corruption. And its CEO Dr. Ralph de la Torre is in the hot seat. A congressional committee recently voted to subpoena the CEO to get him in front of Congress in September to testify about the health giants financial situation. READ MORE: Elaborate Ponzi scheme. CEO of Miami-area hospitals to get subpoena, part of new probe Another Austin staple looks like it could be at the end of the road on South Congress as an Instagram post from Karaoke bar Egos explained the club may be forced to close in the near future. However, unlike other businesses that have been forced off Austin's most popular street, Ego's already says it plans to be back. The post cited maintenance disputes with the landlord that owns the property, located at 510 S. Congress Avenue, as the reason why the beloved bar could be on the rocks. "Right now we're taking it day by day while we wait to see if the landlord is willing to fix all of the pipes that keep collapsing, but it's not looking good since they plan on demoing the building at some point anyway and we're the only business left in that building," the post said. In the post, Egos said if they are forced to close, they will do so this Sunday, August 11. In the event that the closure does happen, the company said that they are planning a last big hurrah that will be announced via Instagram. Not all hope is lost, as the post from Ego's said that its owner is adamant that the bar will return after renovations to the building are completed, but there is currently no timeline for when that will happen. Ego's opened in Austin in 1979 and hit all the right notes as a weird Austin atmospheric bar that quickly gained status as a fan favorite in the city. SoCo changes continue in 2024 The slow-burn business shuffle on SoCo has been in the works for years as major clothing brands like Reformation, Madewell and Lululemon have all made the street home. Recently Kendra Scott, an Austin-born brand in the same vein as the previously mentioned ones, announced a new store, The Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott on SoCo. This is an important distinction as this year, various homegrown companies have moved out. In April, Austin-HQd Outdoor Voices suddenly announced it would be closing all of its retail stores. Also, in December Maya Star announced it would be closing after almost 30 years in its location. Good Company, Sunroom and Mi Casa, Yellow Rose by Kendra Scotts new home, are the latest closures on the street. Beck Andrew Salgado covers trending topics in the Austin business ecosystem for the American-Statesman. To share additional tips or insights with Salgado, email Bsalgado@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Popular Austin Karaoke bar, Ego's, annouces it is closing on SoCo What Michigan leaders have to say about Harris VP pick GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) Michigans top leaders are weighing in after Kamala Harris picked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate. Walz, who was raised in rural Nebraska, joined the Army National Guard after graduating high school. He worked as a social studies teacher in Mankato, Minnesota, before being elected to U.S. Congress in 2006. He was later elected the states governor in 2018 and has served ever since. His Midwestern, rural background is aimed to shore up critical support along the Rust Belt this November. Harris picks Walz as running mate Honestly I couldnt be more excited, Attorney General Dana Nessel told News 8 Tuesday afternoon. I couldnt be more thrilled. Hes the perfect candidate, Nessel added. Nessel called Walz a fantastic choice who has energized the Democratic Party. But she also believes Walz will appeal to progressives, moderates, independents and even disaffected Republicans. Hes just been an incredible person, Nessel said. I think he really embodies our Midwestern values that we have here in Michigan. Hes gonna be incredibly appealing to Michigan voters. Hes the everyman, hes out there being a champion for the middle class in a way were certainly not seeing on the Republican side of the ticket. In 2022, Walz won reelection by 8% and Democrats gained a full trifecta in Minnesota state government. They later passed sweeping protections for abortion rights, free breakfast and lunch for all students regardless of income as well as paid family and medical leave. These are just everyday important policies that I think would be very appealing to people here in the state of Michigan, Nessel said. He cares about peoples healthcare, she added. He cares about people being able to get a decent education. He served on the veterans affairs committee as well as agricultural committees in Congress, so hes very familiar with those areas. In a Tuesday afternoon interview with News 8, Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, R-Porter Township, argued that Walz represents the progressive wing of the party and implemented such policies as governor. I thought Kamala Harris was gonna pick somebody more moderate, more in the center, Nesbitt said. It sounds like shes going all-in on the progressive left-wing base of the Democratic Party. Five things to know about Tim Walz Walz is a gun owner who once had an A-rating from the National Rifle Association. But he later denounced the group and expanded background checks for prospective gun owners and signed a red flag law that is meant to remove guns from people who are deemed threats. Republicans have attacked him for using his emergency powers during the COVID-19 pandemic to implement mask mandates, mandate social distancing, restrict businesses and close schools, all efforts aimed to prevent the virus from spreading. They also criticized his response to unrest after the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer in 2020, which included the torching of a police station. While Walz sent in the Minnesota National Guard, Republicans accused Walz of not acting faster. You saw Minneapolis burn, Nesbitt said. You see crime in Minnesota has increased 20% over the last few years. Nesbitt called Walz a socialist for his policies, citing decisions like allowing all residents, regardless of immigration status, to obtain a drivers license. It affected more than 81,000 unauthorized immigrants in the state at the time. He may come off as Grandpa-esque on his personality, but at the end of the day his policies are a left-wing progressive agenda that America is going to reject this fall, Nesbitt said. After the Walz pick was announced, Trump Campaign Senior Advisor Brian Hughes said the Harris-Walz ticket is dangerously liberal. By picking Tim Walz as her running mate, Kamala Harris not only bent the knee to the radical left, she doubled down on her dangerously liberal, weak, and failed agenda, Hughes said. In response, Nessel said the Trump-Vance ticket is the real radical one. These are people that want to strip women of reproductive rights, Nessel responded. They want to ban IVF. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro was reportedly a finalist for the VP slot. Shapiro has high polling numbers in the critical battleground state. The governor has since pledged his full support to electing Harris and praised the Walz pick. News 8 asked Nessel if she thinks Harris can take Pennsylvania without Shapiro on the ticket. Absolutely, she said. Just as Joe Biden was able to win Pennsylvania in 2020, I think Kamala Harris and Tim Walz will easily do the same thing in 2024. I know (Shapiro) is gonna be campaigning tirelessly on behalf of the Harris-Walz ticket in Pennsylvania. I feel very confident were gonna be able to maintain the Rust Belt. News 8 also asked Nesbitt if Republicans feel more or less confident in their chances with Walz as opposed to Shapiro. Ill leave that up to the political prognosticators, Nesbitt said. At the end of the day, its between Kamala Harris and President Trump. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. LANSING, Mich. (AP) Former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers has secured the Republican nomination for a U.S. Senate seat in Michigan and will face Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin in the November election. Slotkin and Rogers, long considered the front-runners for their respective party nominations, will now shift focus to the general election. Slotkin enters with a massive fundraising advantage and emerges nearly unscathed from a sparse primary, while Rogers has the backing of national Republican groups and former President Donald Trump. Slotkin defeated actor Hill Harper in the Democratic primary, while Republicans chose Rogers over former U.S. Rep. Justin Amash and physician Sherry ODonnell. Both candidates will now compete for a seat left open by longtime Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenows retirement. The retiring incumbent joined Slotkin onstage at an event in Detroit shortly after the race was called to endorse her. Slotkin praised Stabenow for her years of service before delivering a speech positioning herself as the normal and rational candidate. North of Detroit, in Oakland County, Rogers thanked supporters at a watch party for not giving up on politics. Like Slotkin, Rogers represented a mid-Michigan swing district in Congress, and he similarly positioned himself as the common sense candidate in his speech. No Republican has won a U.S. Senate race in Michigan since 1994. With Democrats holding a razor-thin majority in the Senate and Republicans in the House, competitive races like those in Michigan have drawn lots of attention. The state's status as a key presidential swing state raises the stakes for those seats even higher, with party control on the line from the top of the ballot all the way down to the state Legislature. Michigans open Senate seat is one of a handful of races nationwide that will determine control of the upper chamber in November. With a later congressional primary, Slotkin and Rogers will have a short period to transition from competing against their own party members to appealing to a broader base of voters for the Nov. 5 general election, which may explain why they have campaigned with their eyes on the general election. National groups on both sides have already reserved millions of dollars worth of advertisements after the primary. Both Slotkin and Rogers, viewed for months as the overwhelming favorites in their primaries, have skipped debates and refrained from holding large campaign events. Several U.S. House seats with primaries on Tuesday could influence the balance of power in the lower chamber, but there, too, the biggest battles will be fought in the fall campaign. Slotkins entry into the Senate race left her mid-Michigan 7th Congressional District seat open, historically one of the nations top battleground districts. Both party candidates ran unopposed in their primaries there, setting the table for a November matchup between Democrat Curtis Hertel Jr. and Republican Tom Barrett. Democratic U.S. Rep. Dan Kildees retirement will leave an open seat in the 8th Congressional District, which extends northward from the outskirts of Detroit and covers areas such as Flint, Saginaw and Midland. First-term state Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet, who had been endorsed by Kildee, defeated state Board of Education President Pamela Pugh and Matt Collier, the former mayor of Flint, to secure the Democratic nomination. On the Republican side, former TV anchor Paul Junge defeated Mary Draves, a former chemical manufacturing executive at Dow Inc., and Anthony Hudson to win the GOP nomination. Junge lost to Kildee by over 10 percentage points in 2022. Meanwhile, several incumbents in battleground districts now have their November matchups set following Tuesdays primaries. U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, who in 2022 became the first Democrat to represent Grand Rapids in decades, will face Paul Hudson, an attorney who defeated Michael Markey Jr. in the western Michigan district's GOP primary. A district just north of Detroit will see a rematch between freshman GOP Rep. John James and Carl Marlinga, a longtime Macomb County prosecutor who defeated three other Democrats in the primary. Marlinga lost to James by 1,600 votes, and national Democrats have made the seat a top target this cycle. In a heavily Democratic district encompassing downtown Detroit, U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar defeated Detroit City Council member Mary Waters, who had been endorsed by Mayor Mike Duggan. Thanedar significantly outraised her, and his win likely leaves Detroit a city that is nearly 80% Black without Black representation in Congress for a second consecutive term. Down-ballot races held primaries across the state on Tuesday. Control of the state House of Representatives will be at stake in November, with all 110 seats up for election. Democrats took control of both chambers and the governor's office for the first time in four decades in 2022 and will be trying to defend those majorities. ___ Associated Press writer Isabella Volmert in Lansing, Michigan, contributed to this report. SAO PAULO (Reuters) -LATAM Airlines on Monday said that it would invest $2 billion in Brazil, Latin America's largest economy, within the next two years. The Chile-based airline said in a statement it would focus the funding on products, technologies and services for passengers and on aircraft maintenance. LATAM said it had also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Brazil's labor ministry over training workers in specialty skills and hiring them mainly at its Sao Carlos facility in Sao Paulo state. In the statement, LATAM said the facility - the largest aircraft maintenance center in South America - had the potential to become "a true Brazilian aerospace hub." The decisions were made in a meeting that CEO Roberto Alvo and other company executives held together with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and other government officials. LATAM is in advanced talks with Brazilian planemaker Embraer to add aircraft to its fleet, the head of Brazil's state development bank BNDES said last month. (Reporting by Andre Romani; Editing by Kylie Madry) Good morning, Michigan and Happy Election Day! Not registered to vote? Didn't cast an absentee ballot or vote early? No need to worry! There's still time to participate and make sure your voice is heard as long as you're in line by 8 p.m. Head over to your local clerk's office to register to vote. Or, if you're already registered to vote, you can go to your polling place to vote in person. The primary election will decide the Democratic and Republican candidates for U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, Michigan House of Representatives and local offices. Local millage proposals may also be on your ballot. Not sure if you're registered to vote? You can look that up! If you're unsure whether you're registered to vote, you can check your status online using the Michigan Secretary of State's voter information center. Go to mvic.sos.state.mi.us and click "Am I registered?" Enter your first name, last name, birth month, birth year and ZIP code. You can also search your registration status by entering your driver's license number, driver's license birth month and driver's license birth year. How to register to vote in Michigan on Election Day Not registered to vote? You still can today if you live in Michigan, are a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old and are not currently serving a sentence in jail or prison. Go to your local clerk's office and bring documentation to prove your residency with you. You can find the address for your clerk's office using the Secretary of State's Michigan Voter Information Center available at mvic.sos.state.mi.us. Under "Your voter information," click on "Where are my clerk's offices?" Enter your address or search by your county and click on the municipality where you live. To prove your residency, you'll need paper or digital documentation with your name and address. That could be your driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport, a utility bill, insurance document, bank or credit card statement, financial aid or school enrollment document, a lease agreement, a paycheck or other government check or another government document, according to a list on the Secretary of State's website. If you're unhoused and registering to vote on Election Day, you can prove your residency by bringing a letter from a shelter, place of worship or public assistance agency you interact with that includes your name and states that you live in the jurisdiction, according to the Secretary of State's Office. As soon as you're registered, you have two options for casting a ballot. Those registering to vote on Election Day can request an absentee ballot to fill out and submit at your clerk's office. As long as you're in line at your clerk's office by 8 p.m., you can register to vote and cast an absentee ballot. If you choose to visit your polling location instead after registering to vote at your clerk's office on Election Day, you must be in line by 8 p.m. to cast a ballot. Michigan Voter Guide: Key Races How to find your polling place to vote in-person on Election Day If you're already registered to vote, you can head over to your polling location to cast a ballot between the hours of 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. If you're in line by 8 p.m., you can vote. You can find your polling location using the Secretary of State's Michigan Voter Information Center available at mvic.sos.state.mi.us. Under "Your voter information" click on "Where is my polling place?" On that page, you can type in your first name, last name, birth month, birth year and ZIP code. Or, you can type in your driver's license number, birth month and birth year. Hit search and the address for your polling location will pop up. Contact Clara Hendrickson: chendrickson@freepress.com or 313-296-5743. Follow her on X, previously called Twitter, @clarajanehen. Looking for more on Michigans elections this year? Check out our voter guide, subscribe to our elections newsletter and always feel free to share your thoughts in a letter to the editor. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan primary 2024: How to register and vote today Polls opened at 7 a.m. Tuesday for Michigan's primary election, with rain greeting early voters across much of lower Michigan. The election will determine which candidates are on Michigan's Nov. 5 ballot for an open U.S. Senate seat. It also impacts Michigan elections for the U.S. House, meaning it could help determine which party controls Congress next year. Candidates for the state House also are on the ballot Tuesday, as are those for many county offices around the state, as well as local ballot measures. Polls closed at 8 p.m. local time in Michigan. Four western Upper Peninsula counties located in the Central time zone Dickinson, Gogebic, Iron, and Menominee close one hour later than in the rest of the state. Rain and possible thunderstorms are forecast for many parts of the state throughout the day. More: Find all 2024 Michigan primary election results here Michigan's U.S. Senate race is set The battle for Michigan's open U.S. Senate seat came into clearer focus Tuesday night as U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Holly, and former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Brighton, won their parties' nominations to succeed U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Democrat who is stepping down after 24 years in the job. The Associated Press, which the Free Press relies on for final results, called the races as the final polls in the state closed at 9 p.m., despite only a small amount of the total votes having been counted across Michigan. Slotkin led Detroit actor Hill Harper 75%-25% in the Democratic primary, with just over 10% of the vote tallied statewide. Rogers led the Republican primary, with 70% to 12% for former U.S. Rep. Justin Amash, R-Cascade Charter Township, and 10% for west Michigan Dr. Sherry O'Donnell, with under 8% of the GOP vote in statewide. Grosse Pointe businessman Sandy Pensler, who dropped out of the race and endorsed Rogers two weeks ago but still appeared on the ballot, had about 8% of the vote. Both Slotkin and Rogers had long been considered the frontrunners in the Democratic and Republican primaries for the Senate seat. More of us vote absentee than in person Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said at least 1.2 million voters turned in absentee ballots and that the total may grow by the time all of the ballots are in. She said 1.6 million voters requested absentee ballots. Benson estimated that about 2 million Michiganders voted in the primary, meaning more people voted absentee than in person. She said that has been the case in every election since 2020 when, during the pandemic, nearly two-thirds of all votes were not cast in person. "Lines were short or non-existent around the state," Benson said around 9:15 p.m., during a news conference at the Detroit Pistons Performance Center in Detroit's New Center area. Since 2018, between 2.1 million and 2.5 million voters typically participate in Michigan's primary elections. With the exception of military and overseas absentee voters, all absentee ballots must be received by local clerks or placed in drop boxes by 8 p.m. on Election Day or they will not be counted. Eligible Michigan residents were able to register to vote on Election Day at their city or township clerks office with proof of residency. Benson said about 1,800 people registered and voted on Election Day, with most of them doing so in Ann Arbor and Detroit. Will work (the polls) for golf clubs The voter count hit triple figures just after 5 p.m. at Precinct 11 in Farmington Hills, where poll worker Dan Salk was earning a new golf club. Salk, 68, has been hitting a 10-year-old driver grabbed from the discount bin at a defunct golf shop. His wife, long-time poll worker Beth Salk, gave him the go-ahead for a replacement as long as he worked the election. Truth is, he said, tearing the stubs from atop completed ballots and directing voters to the tabulating machine was an enjoyable way to spend the day. The retired risk management director at Eastern Michigan University was sitting at a long white table with an open sleeve of Girl Scout cookies and a Detroit Free Press crossword puzzle. Im sticking to the easy part, he said, leaving his wife and another worker to deal with checking voters in. Their job had been peaceful, Beth Salk said, despite a double-switch in the precincts whereabouts: the parking lot at the school where Precinct 11 voters usually go is being repaired, and the school scheduled to replace it had a minor fire two weeks ago. The City of Farmington Hills sent a letter and a map in July alerting voters to the first change. With no time after the fire for a second mailing, a text message was supposed to advise voters to skip the replacement school and report to the Costick Activities Center instead. Many voters, it turned out, did not receive the text. And moments later, the first upset customer of the day came through the door. It turned out that she hadnt received any notice whatsoever. Im really upset about this, Jamila Steward, 47, said pointedly, but politely. A passer-by had directed her to the correct location, she said, but there were seven cars behind me. I dont know if theyll make it. Dan Salk sat ready to assist if they did, counting ballots and the strokes he might save with his new club. Detroiters discuss doing their duty Eastsiders Angela Gardner, LaToshia Price-Tyus and Rick Tunney, who voted at East English Village Preparatory Academy, take democracy seriously. Angela Gardner voted in the 2024 primary election at East English Village Preparatory Academy on Detroit's eastside. She said she loves voting and feels it's her duty to cast her ballot. LaToshia Price-Tyus voted in the 2024 primary election at East English Village Preparatory Academy on Detroit's eastside. She said voting allows her to express her opinion. "I really love voting, and people have died for us to do that," Gardner, 57, said outside the eastside Detroit high school. "So I'm taking advantage of every time" to vote. Gardner said voting brings people together, gives them a voice, a chance to make change. "Don't complain about who's in office if you don't vote," she said. Price-Tyus, 48, stopped to vote on her way home after working a 10-hour day. She said it was important to exercise her right to vote and "to get my opinion across." Tunney came out to vote even though he didn't find much to vote for. As a self-professed diehard independent, he said he doesn't vote on the partisan matters like determining which candidate will be their party's nominee. That pretty much left him with three ballot proposals involving millage renewals and Wayne County's independent external auditor. Once each party's nominee is set and appears on the ballot in the Nov. 5 general election, Tunney said he expects to vote for some of the candidates. Spoiler alert: It sounds like he's not a fan of Donald Trump. "If Trump wins another election, the country will die before I do, the 56-year-old said. Looking ahead to November On the eve of Vice President Kamala Harris first visit to Michigan as a presidential candidate, some Detroit voters expressed enthusiasm for her last-minute bid for the White House. Jeremy Rosenberg and Chella Bluth said they were talking about their excitement for Harris and her decision to pick Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate on their way to vote at Northwestern High School with their newborn. I said for once I feel hopeful, recalled Bluth. She said she recently showed her son an issue of Vogue she kept with Harris on the cover when she became vice president. He was in my lap and I was like, this could be our future, she said, adding it now looks a little better and brighter. But not everyone in the Democratic stronghold is certain how theyll vote. Alethea Smith, 55, said she was disappointed President Joe Biden dropped out of the race. She was planning to vote for him and now she isnt sure shell vote for Harris. Im still trying to research. I mean shes new. I mean if it was Biden, it would have been no problem, she said. Another Detroit voter has already made up his mind and wont be voting for either of the major partys candidates. Maurice Upthegrove-Bey, 52, said he plans to support independent presidential candidate Cornel West, calling him down to earth and a humanitarian. He said he takes issue with Harris actions as a prosecutor when she prosecuted marijuana-related crimes as Californias attorney general and San Franciscos district attorney. Now she want to come back to the table? Nuh-uh. Im sorry, he said. Returning absentee ballots on Election Day Don Rockefeller, 83, of Novi, and his wife vote absentee but he visited Novi City Hall on Election Day to drop off their ballots because it was too late to mail them. Rockefeller said he voted for Elissa Slotkin in the Democratic race for U.S. Senate because she has more experience. He said President Bidens poor debate performance in June really hurt the Democrats and he was happy to see Harris become the nominee. He said hed just read a little bit about her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and thought he appeared to be a well-rounded candidate. He plans to vote for Harris in November and expects her to win a close race. There's a ton of people out there, and that amazes me as far as their intellect is concerned, that will vote for Trump, he said. And I cannot see anybody with any intelligence doing that. Rockefeller said that he thinks that Harris will make a good president, but said: I guess if I had to characterize it, its mostly a vote against Trump. Trump supporters don't like Gov. Tim Walz Constance Pemberton, 71, and her husband, George Bowie, 69, are both Republicans who voted for Mike Rogers in the U.S. Senate race, though they said the overall primary ballot didnt excite them. Constance Pemberton and George Bowie Im not passionate about any of the candidates, except maybe for president, Pemberton said. She said she plans to vote for Donald Trump in November. I love him. Ive been with him since the beginning. I read his book in 1987, she said. Bowie agreed with his wife. Im going to vote for Trump, primarily because of his business experience, Bowie said. I think Trumps a strong leader. The Middle East is a huge concern and you know, in the Ukraine war has been going on way too long. I think we should have had a diplomatic solution to that a long time ago. Hes a deal maker. Neither had anything good to say about Harris or her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. Pemberton called Walz the one who let Minnesota burn down, in reference to rioting after the 2020 death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Police investigating Crawford County incident Law enforcement is investigating a possible incident of voter intimidation Tuesday in Crawford County, officials said. A member of a state elections ground team conducting election check-ins around the state witnessed the incident in Beaver Creek Township in which people who were campaigning partly blocked an entrance to a polling location, said Angela Benander, a spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of State. "They were approaching voters aggressively with signs as voters drove in," she said. Campaigning within 100 feet of an entrance to a polling location is a criminal offense and the incident was reported to local law enforcement, she said. Weather caused closures of several polling locations It's not clear to what extent heavy rainfall and storms around the state affected turnout at the polls Tuesday, but Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said her office had received "some reports of weather-related polling location closures." Polls were relocated due to power outages in Royal Oak, in Oakland County; Warren, in Macomb County; Three Rivers, in St. Joseph County; Grand Rapids, in Kent County; Clinton Township, in Macomb County; Brady Township, in Kalamazoo County; and the City of Portage, in Kalamazoo County, according to Benson's office. Details on the Warren and Royal Oak relocations, reported earlier, are specified below. Details were not immediately available on which precincts were relocated in the other municipalities. Tamara Woods, 70, of Auburn Hills volunteers to leaflet for Fannie Lou Hamer Political Action Committee outside of Marcus Garvey Academy during the Michigan primary election in Detroit on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Benson, speaking to reporters at a 1 p.m. briefing from Detroit, said in each case signs were posted and voters were advised of alternate locations and voting was not interrupted. Benson noted that more than 1 million Michigan voters had already cast ballots before Tuesday through early voting and absentee voting. That's "a good sign for our democracy," Benson said. Grand Rapids voter says Harris brings greater energy Grand Rapids voter Suzi Vos said she tries to vote in every election, so there wasnt a particular issue or race drawing her to the polls. But she voted to support U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, in her primary contest against west Michigan businessman Salim Al-Shatel. I think shes really smart and willing to work with a variety of people, Vos said, of Scholten. Shes also committed to a lot of the same things I am. Suzi Vos In more recent elections, Vos said shes been supporting Democratic candidates. And while she thinks President Joe Biden has done a great job, she commended his July decision to withdraw from the race against former President Donald Trump, setting the stage for Vice President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic nominee this fall. I was really relieved to see him step aside, Vos said. Ive been a little surprised about the energy that Vice President Harris has generated. Its been exciting. I feel much more optimistic. Trump supporter always votes in person Phillip Mansour, 60, went to the public library in West Bloomfield to cast his ballot Tuesday. I always vote in person, he said. I dont vote absentee or mail-in ballots. Thats been my custom since I became an American citizen. Phillip Mansour Mansour said he plans to vote Republican in November. Thats been my party since I became an American, because of my beliefs, Mansour said. Mansour said he expects former president Donald Trump to win the election, but he thinks Vice President Kamala Harris poses a tougher challenge as the Democratic nominee than President Joe Biden did. West Bloomfield man likes options for when to vote Glenn Johnson, 69, of West Bloomfield, voted in person Tuesday morning and said he likes having options when it comes to voting. I actually meant to vote yesterday because I have Sundays and Mondays off, but I got busy, he said. Glenn Johnson He has a neighbor running for township trustee, which was his main reason for voting today, but he also voted for Hill Harper in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. I know him from TV, hes a great actor and I like his image, he said. A lot of my friends and neighbors are in his camp. Johnson said he plans to vote for Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for president, in November. She brings a lot of energy. I think she has a lot of experience, he said. She's a woman. She's Black, female and Asian, whatever. I just think she's a better candidate. Johnson said he didnt know much about Tim Walz, the Minnesota governor who was announced Tuesday as Harris' running mate. I dont know anything about him, he said. I know there was a lot of hype about the governor of Pennsylvania, but I dont know anything about the guy from Minnesota. Continued problems in Plymouth Township Officials with Michigan's Department of State said most voting was going smoothly around Michigan but they had received reports of continued concerns about possible voter intimidation in Plymouth Township Tuesday morning, after earlier complaints there during early voting. The concerns related to electioneering and possible voter intimidation within 100 feet of an entrance to a polling place, said Angela Benander, a spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of State and the Bureau of Elections. The incidents related to early voting arose at Risen Christ Lutheran Church, the only township site for early voting. On Aug. 1, state Elections Director Jonathan Brater wrote to Plymouth Township election candidates reminding them about state law restrictions on electioneering near polling places, Benander said. However , "we heard a little bit this morning about continued activity," she said. Police reports were filed during the early voting period and local officials are addressing the situation, she said. "The Bureau of Elections is aware of multiple incidents of candidates and individuals displaying campaign materials crossing the 100-foot boundary at the Plymouth Township early voting site," Brater said in the Aug. 1 letter to candidates. "The incidents have involved multiple people and have occurred on multiple days, and election workers have had to call law enforcement numerous times to address them." Royal Oak relocates some polls due to power outage Voters in two Royal Oak precincts will have their polling places relocated Tuesday due to a power outage, the city said on its website. An outage at the Salter Center will result in voting for Precincts 2 and 3 being moved to the Royal Oak Farmers Market, located at 316 E. 11 Mile Road, the city said. Power outage moves polling locations in Warren The city of Warren has relocated polling places for eight precincts, due to a power outage at Butcher Community Education on Cosgrove Drive, according to the city website. Precincts 31, 32, 33, and 36 have been moved to the Mott High School gym at 3131 12 Mile Road, the city said. Precincts 34, 35, 40, and 41 have been moved to the Mott High School band room. More: Michigan primary election 2024: Your last-minute guide to voting More: Michigan primary election 2024 is Tuesday: Your guide to voting Looking for more on Michigans elections this year? Subscribe to our elections newsletter, check out our voter guide and always feel free to share your thoughts in a letter to the editor. Contact Paul Egan: 517-372-8660 or pegan@freepress.com. Follow him on X, @paulegan4. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan primary election 2024: Updates from the polls Michigan woman hit with drug charges after traffic stop on I-65 PRICEVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) A Michigan woman was arrested after a traffic stop along I-65 that happened on Monday. According to the Priceville Police Department (PPD), officers pulled a vehicle over on I-65 southbound for minor traffic violations around 1:45 a.m. PPD tells News 19 that officers noticed things during the traffic stop that made them believe the driver was involved in criminal activity. Upon further investigation, officers found an amount of fentanyl, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle. Police say that 47-year-old Jennifer Marie-Joyce Taylor, of Pinckney Michigan, was arrested and charged with trafficking fentanyl, trafficking in cannabis, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. Taylor was transported to the Morgan County Jail and was issued a $560,300 bond. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The Midland Park Mall announced that it will be hosting a back-to-school tailgate party as well as a tax-free weekend for everything related to back-to-school shopping. The tax-free weekend will start on Friday, August 9th, and last until Sunday, August 11th. Retailers at the Midland Park Mall such as Dillards JCPenny, Aeropostale, American Eagle, Buckle, Foot Locker, and more- will offer clothing and footwear (sold for less than $100) tax-free and will have no limit to the number of qualifying items you can buy. During Midland Malls tax-free weekend, a Back-to-School tailgate party will also take place. The tailgate party will feature a 100 ft. obstacle course, inflatable games, face painting, balloon artist, food, music, a dunk tank, an MFD firetruck, MPD police cruisers, a photo op with the Chick-fil-A Cow, and a chance to adopt a pet with Fix West Texas. The Back to school tailgate will be from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 10th near the outside of Ulta and Master Perfumes. The Midland Park Malls tenant, Kikx, will also give away 75 backpacks full of school supplies, and there will be a chance to win one out of the two JanSport backpacks filled with MISD-approved school supplies, earbuds, and a Stanley Cup. While attending the tailgate, Midland Park Mall invites all to take advantage of its Tax-Free Weekend shopping where you can find school uniforms, an assortment of denim jeans, shoes, backpacks, apparel, and accessories. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. A group of migrant day laborers have sued Home Depot, the Chicago Police Department, and the city of Chicago in federal court, alleging ethnically motivated harassment and assault by police officers working secondary employment as security at the store. The federal lawsuit filed Tuesday morning outlines a pattern of alleged violence and detentions targeting day laborers from Venezuela outside a Home Depot store in New City. Represented by attorneys from Raise The Floor Alliance and The Peoples Law Office, the plaintiffs claim that off-duty Chicago police officers and Home Depot employees violated their civil rights and are seeking monetary damages. In a news conference Tuesday morning outside the Dirksen Federal Building, migrant workers held a sign that read We demand work and dignity all while others described the alleged abuse. I was beaten, mistreated and humiliated for the simple fact of being an immigrant and wanting to progress in life and help my family, said Willian Alberto Gimenez Gonzalez of Venezuela. And I believe that just as it happened to me, it has happened to other colleagues. The parking lot of the hardware store has long attracted workers seeking short-term employment from construction companies and homeowners, according to the lawsuit. However, the plaintiffs allege that the Home Depot at 4555 S. Western Blvd. stepped up its security only after the arrival of an influx of Venezuelan migrants in the fall of 2023, hiring CPD officers looking for secondary employment. The Chicago Police Department and Home Depot declined to comment on ongoing litigation. The city of Chicagos Law Department did not respond to requests for comment. The five day laborer plaintiffs, four of whom are Venezuelan, detail in the lawsuit allegations of harassment, assault and detention. They allege that they were confronted by off-duty officers wearing vests marked POLICE while looking for work near the western entrance to the Home Depot parking lot. This lawsuit reflects a disturbing history of CPD abuses that have coalesced into one scheme, said Jamitra Fulleord, an attorney for Raise the Floor Alliance. The lawsuit states that day laborers of non-Venezuelan origin gather to seek similar employment at the southern parking lot entrance along 47th Street. However, security personnel have placed a specific and excessive attention on harassing, moving and detaining day laborers perceived to be Venezuelan seeking work near the Western Boulevard entrance to the parking lot. The plaintiffs claim to have been handcuffed, often after being pushed or knocked to the ground, and brought into a private backroom inside the Home Depot building, where the day laborers allege that off-duty CPD officers struck and choked them, and in the majority of cases, berated them with ethnically motivated insults. Betuel Castro Camacho, a Colombian plaintiff, claims that when he told the security officers his ethnicity, they said that he was lying and that he must actually be Venezuelan. He also alleges that officers struck him in the abdomen four times and cracked his phone. The lawsuit alleges the abuse occurred between October 2023 and May 2024. Two Home Depot employees and two CPD officers are listed by name as defendants for their involvement in the allegedly unlawful detentions. Castro Camacho alleges that personnel approached him one afternoon in May, handcuffed him, beat him and verbally insulted him with the security guards telling him that this country was better without Venezuelans. Four of the five plaintiffs, including Castro Camacho, were charged with misdemeanors for criminal trespass, with on-duty Chicago officers arriving to the Home Depot back room to formally arrest them. Three claim that they were told to sign documents in English that they could not read, and allege that they agreed to do so under fear of further violence or legal consequences. Out of the workers charged for criminal trespass, all but one have had their case formally dismissed by a court. The remaining plaintiff is awaiting a hearing on Aug. 14. The Home Depot in southwest Chicago listed in the suit was the target of a similar series of allegations in 2008, when the Chicago Day Laborer Committee sued the city of Chicago, Home Depot, and individual CPD officers for allegedly unlawful arrests. The harms experienced by Plaintiffs at the hands of the Chicago Police Department and Home Depot, are a continuation of a long history of CPD abuses of day laborers, Black and Latino communities, migrants. and other persons of color, the lawsuit reads. Plaintiffs are asking for the courts to issue an order requiring CPD to reform its policies on secondary employment for off-duty officers. Because of the harassment, physical and emotional abuse, and displacement experienced by day laborers, we demand that the city of Chicago ends its practice of allowing its officers to moonlight as security and use its force against community members, said Fulleord. CPD often does not require officers to disclose the specifics of their moonlighting, or secondary employment. In 2017, a Chicago Reporter and CBS 2 investigation found that out of the 50 largest local and county law enforcement agencies in the nation, Chicago has one of the most lenient moonlighting policies for officers. While working security at businesses such as Home Depot, off-duty officers may carry weapons and handcuffs, as mentioned in the lawsuit. The plaintiffs argue that the city and the Police Department must tighten their monitoring of off-duty officers to prevent excessive force incidents such as the ones they detail in their allegations. CHICAGO When Esperanza Mendez went into surgery in January, her two youngest children had nightmares about what could go wrong.They had spent the past few weeks in fear. Arguments between their parents filled the apartment. Empty liquor bottles covered the kitchen table. The fighting got so bad, their dad moved out. Now, their mom was being put under anesthesia something they didnt even know existed to remove a large lump on the right side of her neck. If it didnt go as planned, they worried they would be completely alone.I want to go with you! Esperanzas 11-year-old daughter, Yuledy, said the night before the surgery, hugging her tightly. Though doctors assured them the procedure was routine, it was hard on the Mendez children, who had just moved to the South Side of Chicago after a long trek from Venezuela. Everything was hard in those first few months: school, meals, family disputes, their unresolved immigration statuses. In 2023, the Tribune followed the Mendez family of five Esperanza, her adult son, Fabian, his girlfriend, and Experanzas two youngest children, Yuledy and Pedro on a bus and train from El Paso, Texas, to Chicago last July. They had risked their lives to make it to the United States. A year later, they find themselves in deep isolation. More than 7.7 million Venezuelans have fled their country since 2014 in the largest population displacement in Latin Americas recent history, and city estimates show that roughly 45,000 of them have passed through Chicago over the past two years. Following the disputed victory of incumbent President Nicolas Maduro in this months election, which was discredited by the U.S. government Thursday, immigration experts say the exodus will likely continue. In Chicago, a city of more than 2.6 million and routinely considered among the most segregated in the country, thousands of migrants have settled into neighborhoods mostly on the citys West and South sides, untethered from a support system with familial and cultural ties. Unlike waves of immigrants before them, there is no established community for the mostly Venezuelan migrants. Many are strained financially in neighborhoods they feel are no safer than the ones they fled. Their new housing often comes unheated and unfurnished. And most of their time is spent inside, a far cry from the opportunities and resources theyd hoped they might find when they left their home. For months, my mind has been distracted. Weve been in survival mode. Its hard to keep up with everything, said Esperanza in a recent interview. All the while were worried about the people in our own country. The fighting For the past year, the Mendez family has watched news headlines of thousands of migrants who hadnt been able to cross the southern border knowing they faced kidnappings and extortions in Mexico. They counted their blessings that they had made it to the U. S. But it hasnt been an easy transition. In the spring of 2023, the Mendez family had left behind a country in the midst of an economic collapse. The kids schools had closed and citys grocery stores shuttered. Esperanza, which means hope in English, had one goal in mind: to reach Chicago, where her partner, Hugo Sanchez, the father of her two youngest children, was living. The family traveled for months across Central America, surviving the notorious Darien Gap, a deadly jungle between Colombia and Panama, where they witnessed migrants swept away in deadly rivers. It took them just under two months of walking and taking buses to reach the U.S. border. They arrived in El Paso one of the worlds largest urban border regions on July 11, 2023. They didnt have to wait long. The Tribune met them the very next day as they planned to take a bus to Denver, tickets paid for by the pastor of a church. From there, the Mile High City paid for the family to take a train to Chicago. The entire trip from the border to Chicago took 48 hours. Esperanzas partner, Hugo, picked them up at Union Station and took them to his apartment in Englewood. But the relief of finally arriving soon gave way to the reality of their situation. Its good to be here, but its hard too. Everything is so complicated. Were far from our family, said Esperanza a little over a month after settling in. The Mendezes had moved into the second-story, three-bedroom apartment, where Hugo and his two nephews were already living. Shortly after moving in, Fabians girlfriend, Yolexi Cubillan, 20, gave birth to a baby boy that September. Soon after, the small space grew even more cramped. In late December, a friend of Esperanzas 20-year-old son, Fabian, also moved in. The friend had migrated from Venezuela, and the family opened their doors to him.I wasnt going to turn my back on him, said Esperanza. We all migrate here. Todos migramos. Indeed, the South Side neighborhood has become home to hundreds of asylum-seekers, if not more, under a state housing program created to help resettle migrants from city-run shelters into rental housing. Of the more than 6,000 families resettled across the city, about 350 houses were rented to migrants in Englewood, making the neighborhood one of the most populated with asylum-seekers. Even so, the family still felt deeply isolated and lonely. They had just spent a difficult Christmas together, scraping by with barely enough money for food and presents for the children. It affected the two littlest, who didnt quite carry the same excitement in Chicago for the holiday as they did in Venezuela. The familys decorations had been sparse, there were no traditional fireworks and they didnt eat hallacas, the tamales that Venezuelans have at Christmas. Adjusting to a new life, they had to make do with what they had: family. But after Fabians friend arrived at the apartment a few days later, tension began to rise. Esperanza and Hugo now had eight additional mouths to feed, not including themselves. Hugo, a tall, large-framed man who had arrived in Chicago several months before the family, would get high around his kids. He spent his days scrounging for work and his nights drinking with the Honduran men who lived in the apartment below them. He expressed repeatedly that he wanted to go back to Venezuela, and that he was stressed out and depressed. He paced around the apartment in frustration. Yolexi sensed Hugo even had a grudge against her for living there.He looks at me like Ive done something wrong, Yolexi confided. Hugos nephews would cluster in a group in the small kitchen and curse Esperanza. They told her the family should leave since they werent pulling their weight in rent with the money they earned through Fabians occasional painting jobs and Esperanzas infrequent housecleaning gigs. The strain reached its breaking point the night of Jan. 12. Esperanza confronted Hugo about why his nephews were being so hateful. The men got mad, and one tripped Yolexi while she was holding her newborn. Esperanza was so furious she pushed him back, she said.Then she grabbed a knife and flashed it at him. They called the police, Esperanza said.According to an Englewood District (7th) police station dispatcher, a call for service at their address stated a woman was threatening the caller with a knife, and that she could be heard in the background banging on the door. Esperanza said she believed the group called the police to kick her family out of the apartment that night. Police officers defused the situation, she said.Everybodys fine, police told the Tribune, as officers wrapped up the scene. Theyre Venezuelan, one officer said to another. After the police were called, Hugo and his nephews moved to the first-floor apartment. They didnt speak to or look at Esperanza for days, she said. The family was thankful for the space and relative quiet. Esperanza acknowledged that leading up to the police call, she acted in ways she regretted later. She thought about what she could have done differently. The fighting, she said, was hardest on her kids.Its much worse when a person you love accepts you and then afterward treats you badly, she said. Though she desperately wanted to leave after everything that had happened in January, she had little income and no network in the U.S. The housing market was tight, and it was hard for them to find something affordable with their limited incomes. And as a woman, she faced additional risk. Experts have said that migrant women may be more likely to be exposed to sexual exploitation and sexual harm especially if they are homeless and without legal support. So she and the family stayed put. They had been in Chicago for six months. Surgery To make matters worse, Esperanza was worried she might be dying. She had come to the U.S. with a large tumor on her neck that had been growing for three years, putting pressure on her spine and causing pain in her arms and legs. Last November she spent 14 hours waiting in the Stroger Hospitals emergency department, one of the busiest Level 1 trauma centers in the nation and today the citys leading hospital responding to migrants from the southern border. She went to the emergency room to test for cancer because she didnt have health insurance. Her two children who accompanied her. They were terrified of losing her. They didnt know who would care for them or what their future would look like if she was gone. Does it hurt, Mom? Yuledy asked in November. Yes, my arms hurt. Everything hurts a lot, Esperanza said to her. After a CT scan, doctors told her the tumor was likely a benign ball of fat called a lipoma and that she would need surgery to remove it. Esperanza was concerned about the invasiveness of the neck operation in a part of her body that seemed so fragile. But she wanted to get rid of the pain, so she moved forward with it. The operation was scheduled for Jan. 29.The morning of the surgery, Esperanza said she had stayed up all night with her daughter. Her team of doctors had told her they needed to put a tube down her throat, and that they would draw a lot of blood. She cried, thinking about her children and the financial situation they were in. They cried too, she said. Over the past two years, Cook County Health has spent about $30 million on total migrant care everything from routine checkups to emergency medical procedures like surgeries and radiology. Their collection of hospitals and clinics has seen more than 33,600 migrant patients, with over 111,000 visits, a hospital spokeswoman told the Tribune. Esperanzas surgery lasted several hours. After it was over, she lay in the hospital bed, her face white. She leaned up occasionally and grabbed the side of the bed for strength.Tubes ran up through her arms. Her neck had a thick gauze bandage covering the spot that had been removed. Nurses had placed a rose on the table and the windows of several tall buildings could be seen from the hospital bed.When she Facetimed her mother, whom she has described as the most important person in her life, Esperanza broke down into tearsStay still and calm, her mother said, thousands of miles away in Venezuela. To Yuledy, who waited back in the Englewood apartment, Esperanza downplayed her pain.I couldnt eat, thinking about you, Mommy, Yuledy said through the phone, her face close to the camera as she talked. Esperanza cut the call short to tell the nurse she was nauseous and then threw up. She sat in her bed, vulnerable clothed in a hospital gown, pale and sad. Papi, te quiero When Esperanza came home from the hospital the next day, her children were waiting for her in the window of their second-story apartment. They hugged her when she walked inside. She kissed their heads.God bless you. I missed you, she said.For weeks afterward, she said she had trouble moving the right side of her body. She spent most of the time in her bed. She said she sometimes had a shooting pain in her neck. She relied on her kids to bring her medication, to prepare meals and clean the house. In mid-February, Hugo abruptly decided to leave the U.S. and flew back to Venezuela. Esperanza was still recovering; Yuledy was despondent. Esperanza wasnt sure how Hugo had returned to their home country or paid for the journey because she wasnt in touch with him and didnt want to reach out. Esperanza came to Chicago because she knew Hugo was here, too. But their relationship had fallen apart amid the stress, worry and bad behavior. The familys needs had fallen almost entirely on her shoulders not an uncommon occurrence for migrant mothers. After traveling thousands of miles to make it to the U.S., some migrant men seemingly abandon their partners and children, leaving them to fend for themselves. One of Hugos nephews moved out of the bottom unit, she said, but the family has had limited communication with them both. Alone, Esperanza worried about the $1,400 she had to pay for rent, with additional gas and electricity bills. Luckily, she said, the landlord was patient with her late payments while they gathered what little money they had. Fabian took on all the financial responsibility. He worked any job he could find construction, moving but it often wasnt enough. The family washed their clothes by hand and used T-shirts as dishrags to save money.Its all a sacrifice. We have to sacrifice, she said. Hugo still tried to communicate with his daughter over WhatsApp. Yuledy drew pictures for him.Daddy, I love you. Papi, te quiero, she wrote on one, which she covered with purple stickers. Eventually, Hugo also sent Esperanza WhatsApp messages from Venezuela saying that he was sorry and wanted to come back. She responded that he had made his decision and she had nothing to say to him. Seven countries away from their father, the kids were growing up. Pedro, 10, was getting taller and stronger, more inquieto or restless, as Esperanza liked to say. Yuledy started asking for more material things from her mom: makeup and clothes. It saddened Esperanza to think about her childrens unrealized dreams for the U.S. Yuledy had wanted to learn how to swim. Pedro had wanted to learn English. Theyd wanted to make friends. Though Venezuela wasnt always stable, at least her kids had the freedom to play outside, Esperanza said. They would run in the streets, climb trees and eat mangos that had fallen on the ground, she said. Esperanza said she didnt feel comfortable letting them play in Englewood, a neighborhood that has faced poverty and disinvestment for decades. While gun violence has been down in Englewood for several years in a row, it remains one of the most violent of the Chicago Police Departments 22 patrol districts. But Esperanza worried when her kids went to the nearby park. When Pedro and Yuledy werent at school, they spent most of their time, in their room on their phones.And when they were at school, they fought with other kids. Esperanza would get calls from administrators that they were in some type of conflict or argument and she would have to go and pick them up. Pedro came home several times with bruises on his face. Since August 2022, Chicago Public Schools had enrolled about 8,900 students they identify as new arrivals, according to data from early April. To meet the sudden demand of non-English speakers, the district has increased funding for bilingual instruction and added hundreds of bilingual teachers. Even so, schools are struggling to keep up with migrant students needs. After particularly bad fights at school, Esperanza let her kids stay home for weeks at a time. Pedro and Yuledy experience the violence of the neighborhood more than any of us do. You can see it in the scars and bruises on their faces, Esperanza said. Independence On the Fourth of July, the family dressed up and went to Walmart to buy food. As they walked through the gate outside their home, they waved a plastic American flag around and said they were excited to see the fireworks. Pedro held Fabian and Yolexis baby and ran on the sidewalk, laughing. The couple had named the baby Derick Galue. Though he was born in the U.S., it took half a year for Yolexi to get a birth certificate. The family finally received it in the mail in March, after navigating a confusing bureaucratic process and worrying for months she might never get his documentation. But now it was official: They had an American in the family. They needed to celebrate the countrys Independence Day, they joked. They put a little red, white and blue top hat on his head and took pictures of him standing outside their home. Esperanza said that on the nations birthday, shed been reflecting on how much harder life in the U.S. can be for noncitizens. She said that with everything happening in their home country, they were lucky to have a roof over their heads. They wanted to do everything right.The hope of the American Dream hasnt left us. We keep moving forward, she said. At a know-your-rights clinic hosted by the nonprofit Centro Romero over the winter, the family was informed that they needed to apply for asylum a form of protection that allows those who face persecution or harm in their country of origin to remain in the U.S. within a year of arriving. A social worker there told them that if they didnt apply, the judge would order a deportation order.The family said they knew of other migrants in Chicago who had entered the country but failed to appear at their hearing. They knew these people might be deported and didnt want to take the same risk. More than anything, I want to get my legal papers, said Esperanza. In the weeks before their first anniversary in the U.S., they worked with a friend who had expertise on how to fill out their applications, they said, including individual letters detailing their reasons for seeking asylum.Esperanza wrote in hers about the violence she faced in Venezuela at the hands of armed men working under the countrys president. She wrote about how her eldest son had been murdered by those groups during a rally in the street.They beat us, they broke into homes to steal, and they wanted to silence our truths, Esperanza wrote. On July 8, just a few days before their deadline to apply for asylum, Esperanza and Yolexi went to Chicagos immigration court in the Loop and waited in line for hours. There are currently 251,168 pending immigration cases in Illinois, the highest number ever recorded. The family didnt know how exactly the asylum process would work after they handed in their documents, but they were told they had to wait five months before applying for a work permit to get a legal job.Despite the setbacks weve had the sadness, the problems, the financial difficulties weve had some beautiful moments here, too, Esperanza said. At home, they speculated how West Garfield Boulevard got its name.Probably because of Garfield the cat, said Esperanza, laughing. There are a lot of cats in Englewood. Millions spent by pro-Israel lobbyists in bid to unseat Democrats calling for Gaza ceasefire Jamaal Bowman, who was accused of encouraging anti-Israel protests, was defeated in the primaries in New York - John Minchillo/PA Click here to view this content. Powerful pro-Israel lobbyists are funding multimillion-dollar campaigns to unseat members of the hard-Left squad of Democrats who have voiced support for Palestine. The lobby has been funding attack adverts and donating millions to pro-Israel Democratic opponents to the squad in primary races. Those targeted include Jamaal Bowman, a Democrat congressman from New York, who has been an outspoken supporter of a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict. He and other members of the squad were accused of encouraging anti-Israel protests in a writ filed by five Columbia University students. In June, he was ousted after pro-Israel groups spent $17 million (13 million) on a campaign to unseat him in what has become the most expensive primary race in US history. George Latimer after winning his race against Jamaal Bowman in New York's Democratic primary - Spencer Platt/Getty He was defeated by George Latimer, a white, centrist Democrat, whose campaign was also helped by boundary changes bringing more suburban voters into his district. Now Missouris Cori Bush is in the firing line. She accused Israel of an ethnic cleansing campaign in its response to the Hamas attack last October. The campaign is being led by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), which claimed Ms Bush had been one of the most hostile critics of Israel since she came to Congress in 2021 and who actively worked to undermine mainstream Democratic support for the US-Israel relationship. AIPACs grassroots organisation United Democracy Project spent more than $8.4 million in its campaign to unseat Ms Bush by throwing its weight behind opponent Wesley Bell, who it described as a strong pro-Israel progressive Democrat. Jamaal Bowman has been an outspoken supporter of a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict - Jeenah Moon/Getty The issue of Israel has been a divisive one for the Democrats, which traditionally has strong support from the countrys Jewish community. Josh Shapiro, who had been tipped as a potential running mate for Kamala Harris, is an outspoken supporter of Israel. But the schism in the party is likely to pave the way for more brutal primary contests. This is only the beginning, Ms Bush said. Because if they can unseat me, then theyre going to continue to come after more Democrats. Others seen to be at risk of a sustained well-funded attack include congresswomen Summer Lee and Ilhan Omar from Pennsylvania and Minnesota respectively. The Telegraph has approached AIPAC for comment. Click here to view this content. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A bill introduced by Rep. Mike Bost, R-Murphysboro, to rename Millstadts post office after a local Marine who was killed in Iraq is among the most likely types of bills to be signed into law. The bill, H.R. 8976, would honor Cpl. Matthew Wyatt, who died when a suicide bomber drove a truck into Wyatts base in Trebil, Iraq, in December 2004. Bills renaming locations like post offices make up a tiny amount of all bills introduced during a Congressional term. Despite this, they make up a large portion of the bills that actually become law. So far, in the 118th U.S. Congress, 78 laws have been passed, meaning they were signed by President Joe Biden. Out of those laws, 13 relate to renaming a location, building or facility about 16% of all laws signed during this Congress term. In the 117th U.S. Congress, there were 85 laws renaming buildings out of 362 total laws around 23%, nearly a fourth, of all new laws created between 2021 and 2022. During his tenure, former President Donald Trump signed 787 bills into law, with 186 of them, about 22%, renaming a location. These are the bills that became law, however. During Bidens term, there have been 327 bills introduced that would rename buildings out of 29,168 bills total as of July 2024. Under Trump, there were 321 renaming bills introduced and 25,359 total bills introduced. For each of their terms, only 1% of introduced bills were for renaming locations. The current Congress has had trouble getting legislation through, since Republicans control the House of Representatives while Democrats control the Senate and presidency. But since this type of legislation does not deal with any sort of political issue, the bills are usually supported by Democrats and Republicans alike. Despite being proposed by a Republican, the Millstadt bill has every representative in Illinois as a co-sponsor of which, only three, including Bost, are Republicans. Also, Rep. Kathy Manning, a Democrat from North Carolina, is a co-sponsor and Wyatts stepmother is a a congressional fellow in Mannings office. Verlene Wyatt, Matthew Wyatts mother, had worries that renaming the post office could take a while, since it has to go through the legislative process. A spokesperson for Bosts office said it had passed initial hurdles, and the congressman, who represents portions of the metro-east, hopes to see more progress later in the year. As of July 31, 2024, the bill has yet to be passed by the House, according to Congress website. What comes with a renaming A document from the United States Postal Services website says naming post offices has been done since at least 1967. The renaming is usually done by Congress, though sometimes the post office may do it to honor postal employees who died in the line of duty. According to the document, any proposal to rename a post office must be approved by the postmaster general, who is currently Louis DeJoy. The individual being honored also must be deceased for at least 10 years, with some exceptions for presidents, postmaster generals and others. A look at two renamed post offices, in Elwood, Illinois, and Fair Haven, Vermont, on Google Maps shows that renaming doesnt change the external sign to the office. Two bills, H.R. 700 and H.R. 5245 made into law during the 117th U.S. Congress and 109th U.S. Congress respectively named the Elwood and Fair Haven post offices after Lawrence M. Larry Walsh and Matthew Lyon. The Elwood office sign says, U.S. Post Office, and the Fair Haven office sign says, United States Post Office. A postal worker from the Elwood post office said there is a plaque inside for Walsh that displays basic information. However, a postal worker from the Fair Haven post office said there was no plaque or identifier for Lyon that they were aware of. Currently, the Millstadt post office has a plaque inside that shows it was established in 1961, and names John F. Kennedy, the president at the time. A criminal complaint says a prone and outnumbered DVontaye Mitchell was repeatedly punched and beaten with a broom after he was brought to his knees during a confrontation with four Milwaukee Hyatt Regency workers, who now face charges in his death. Milwaukee County prosecutors on Tuesday filed charges against four men who they believe played a role in the incident. Todd Alan Erickson, 60; Brandon LaDaniel Turner, 35; and Herbert T. Williamson, 52, all of Milwaukee, and Devin W. Johnson-Carson, 23, of South Milwaukee, each face a charge of felony murder. The 43-year-old Mitchell died during a deadly June 30 confrontation with security at the downtown hotel, where he was held down for about nine minutes. The incident drew comparisons to George Floyd, a Minneapolis Black man who was held down by Minneapolis police until he died in 2020. "Finally," attorney Benjamin Crump, who represents Mitchell's family, told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. "The legal team and the family are relieved the district attorney is filing charges. But we can't be satisfied until we get a conviction. "We're going to keep fighting until we get full justice for this family. And we're going to keep showing up to make sure they dont just get a slap on the wrist." Erickson and Turner were employed by the hotel as security guards. Williamson worked at the Hyatt as a bell driver door attendant. Johnson-Carson was a front desk agent. Arrest warrants were issued for them Tuesday. As of Wednesday night, only Erickson was in custody at the Milwaukee County Jail. More: 'You beat him to death': What happened to D'Vontaye Mitchell at the Hyatt Regency hotel in Milwaukee comes to light Mitchell's death touched off days of protests and demonstrations during which members of Mitchell's family and other supporters pressured Milwaukee County District Attorney John Chisholm to bring criminal charges against the men involved in the encounter. One demonstration took place during the Republican National Convention outside the Hyatt, which served as a main venue for the political event. Nayisha Mitchell, the sister of D'Vontaye Mitchell, speaks to local reporters at a demonstration Aug. 5. Here's what prosecutors believe happened that afternoon Detectives and prosecutors have been aided in their investigation by surveillance video shot inside the hotel that recorded the incident. According to the criminal complaint, the incident began as Mitchell ran across the lobby of the Hyatt Regency and in what appears to be a frantic manner into the gift shop and subsequently into a women's bathroom. He attempted to lock himself inside with two women who were already in the bathroom. Seconds later, a woman is seen emerging from the lavatory in what appears to be a hurry, the complaint said. As she exited, Turner entered the bathroom and pulled Mitchell out, grabbing him by the shirt and escorting him down a hallway toward the Kilbourn entrance. The struggle between Turner and Mitchell made its way into the main lobby. It's there that Turner at one point backed away and punched Mitchell, knocking him to the floor, the complaint alleged. A hotel guest, identified in the complaint only as SB, jumped in to help Turner. Turner and SB escorted and later dragged Mitchell through a set of sliding doors. Another hotel employee, identified as TB in the complaint, is seen in the video striking Mitchell in the legs with a broom, forcing him to his knees. The complaint says Turner then punched Mitchell about six times. Some of the blows came while Mitchell was down, the document says. Mitchell managed to get back on his feet and appeared in the video to be trying to reenter the hotel. Thats when SB, Turner, Johnson-Carson and Williamson surrounded him, blocking his way back in, according to the complaint. Erickson arrived, then all four men tackled Mitchell in the hotel driveway, the complaint says. Prosecutors allege Turner and Johnson-Carson punched Mitchell while taking him to the ground, and that Erickson tried to strike Mitchell with his fist, but instead kicked him in the torso. More: 'You beat him to death': What happened to D'Vontaye Mitchell at the Hyatt Regency hotel in Milwaukee comes to light Mitchell was held down, force was placed on his back The complaint says the video shows Mitchell lying on the ground on his left side, holding his right arm up to guard himself from more blows. Erickson and Turner are seen trying to flip Mitchell onto his stomach, but Mitchell appears to resist. It appears in the video Williamson and Johnson-Carter try to help Erickson and Turner in forcing Mitchell to his stomach, while also holding him down. Investigators said in the document Turner, Erickson and Williamson put varying amounts of force on Mitchell's back,shoulders and arms as they held him down. They held Mitchell in that position for roughly eight or nine minutes until police and emergency responders arrived. Mitchell apparently tried to break free from the defendants restraint multiple times, the criminal complaint said. But by then, Mitchell had stopped showing movement or resistance or other signs of life. A detective described Mitchells behavior that day in the complaint as erratic and confusing, and that he engaged in continuous physical resistance against the men. He also noted, in the video, Mitchell does not instigate any violence or display any obviously aggressive or threatening behavior while on the hotel premises. D'Vontaye Mitchell's brother, Darrell Giles, and sister, Nayisha Mitchell, hold a photo of him, while his sister-in-law Candice Miller sits behind them on the porch. Charges come '36 days too late' for Mitchell's family The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner recently determined Mitchell had drugs in his system and that he died from restraint asphyxia. A metal pipe, consistent with inhaling cocaine base, was found after the confrontation in Mitchells left shoe, the complaint said. A medical examiner discovered a similar pipe, made of glass, in Mitchells anus, according to the document. More: Milwaukee Mayor: 'Difficult to read' charges in D'Vontaye Mitchell's death A copper Chore Boy was located in Mitchells pocket. He had no cash or a wallet. Members of Mitchells family said while the outpouring of support from many in the community has been a comfort, coping with losing their loved one continues to be a struggle. Its about 36 days too late, said Rendell Giles, one of Mitchells brothers. Theres video. This should have happened within 24 hours. Still, Nayisha Mitchell said news of arrests in her brothers death has given the family some measure of hope. This is a move in the right direction, she said. Were going to keep standing, keep pushing and keep moving until we get what were looking for. And thats for all these individuals to be convicted. Chisholm issued a statement late Tuesday saying the charges resulted from an "extensive review of the evidence collected by the Milwaukee Police Department, the autopsy conducted and the report produced by the Milwaukee County Medical Examiners Office, and information received from members of the community. The maximum penalty for felony murder is 15 years and nine months in prison. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee County DA charges 4 with murder in D'Vontaye Mitchell death London Hedge Fund Capula Management Invests $418M in Bitcoin ETFs A prominent European hedge fund has amassed over $418 million in holdings of spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), according to a regulatory filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Capula Management, a London-based hedge fund overseeing approximately $30 billion in assets, disclosed in a 13F form that it had acquired 4,022,346 shares of Fidelitys Wise Origin Bitcoin Trust (FBTC) and 7,419,108 shares of BlackRocks iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) ETF. At market close on Monday, Capulas holdings reflect a value of approximately $190.3 million in FBTC and $228.2 million in IBIT, totalling $418.5 million. The SEC approved 11 spot Bitcoin ETFs in January, providing investors with a secure and regulated means to gain exposure to the volatile cryptocurrency market. These ETFs have been highly successful, attracting significant institutional interest. Industry experts had predicted that such funds would facilitate easier access to Bitcoin for institutions, and this has proven accurate. Collectively, these ETFs now hold tens of billions of dollars in Bitcoin as investment interest has surged in recent months. In May, American banking giant Wells Fargo disclosed its investments in several Bitcoin ETFs, while the State of Wisconsin Investment Board revealed purchases of shares from both BlackRock and Grayscale Bitcoin ETFs. These moves highlight a growing trend among institutional investors to diversify their portfolios with digital assets. Democratic U.S. Rep. Angie Craig speaks to the crowd at Farmfest during a candidate forum on Aug. 6, 2024. Photo by Madison McVan/Minnesota Reformer. Farmfest is typically a critical campaign stop for Minnesota politicians attempting to garner support among rural voters, and the first day Tuesday coincided with Gov. Tim Walzs selection as the vice presidential candidate on the Democratic ticket. A handful of audience members booed when Democratic U.S. Rep. Angie Craig of Minnesotas 2nd District was asked to comment on Walzs selection as the Democrats vice presidential candidate. I knew I was going to get some reaction to that (question), Craig said, laughing. Not everybody in this room is going to agree with him on all the issues. Ive been at enough Farmfests to know this, she continued. But youre not going to find a Democrat in the country who knows more about ag issues. In Congress, Walz served on the House Committee on Agriculture beginning in 2007. He was involved in the drafting of major farm bills, which are typically passed every five years and provide subsidies to farmers and food aid to families. Hes long been a supporter of biofuels. He worked with Midwestern Republicans to push the EPA to allow sales of E15 year round, which the Biden administration is set to allow beginning in 2025. Republicans at Farmfest did not speak favorably about the governor, focusing on his economic record spending a nearly $17.5 billion budget surplus in 2023 and raising taxes and his response to the protests in Minneapolis in the aftermath of the police killing of George Floyd. During the riots, he sat for three days while Minneapolis burned and those cops were being assaulted. And at the same time, his running mate Kamala Harris was trying to bail them out of jail, said U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber of Minnesotas 7th District, referencing Harris June 1, 2020, post encouraging people to donate to the Minnesota Freedom Fund. On his way to Farmfest, Stauber posted on X that he had stopped multiple times to campaign against Walz and Harris. Fellow Republican U.S. Rep. Michelle Fishbach echoed a similar message on X: Funny that Walz was picked as a moderate because hes just as liberal as Harris: a radical on abortion, disrespects law enforcement, burned through a huge surplus and still raised taxes. Outside of the candidate forum, farming families inspected farm equipment, purchased Minnesota-raised pork chops and chatted with experts about seeds and fertilizers. Many wore buttons, hats or shirts displaying support for former president Donald Trumps reelection campaign or other Republican candidates for Congress. Walz has routinely appeared at Farmfest since he was elected to represent Minnesotas First Congressional district in 2007. He was scheduled to appear at the festival Wednesday, but canceled his appearance on Tuesday afternoon, according to festival organizers. Walz will attend a rally with Harris in Eau Claire Wednesday afternoon. In her live radio appearance Tuesday, Craig referenced a quote from Walzs 2021 appearance at Farmfest, in which he encouraged the crowd to get vaccinated against COVID-19 so you can still be alive to vote against me if thats what you want to do. Its kind of fun to have a Minnesotan at the top of the ticket, Craig said. I remember when Tim was here one time, not too long ago. He said, Well, at the end of the day, now you have a chance to vote against me again, and thats probably what hed tell you today as well. Traditionally, major party presidential campaigns try to pivot towards the center as the summer wanes, the conventions occur, and the election nears. But if the selection of their running mates is any indication, both former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris seem to believe it's more important to double down on their respective party's versions of economic progressivism. Harris named Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate on Tuesday, rounding out her hastily assembled presidential ticket. Walz was the favored choice for many left-wing DemocratsSen. Bernie Sanders (IVt.) and Jacobin magazine both lobbied on his behalf in recent dayswho saw him as a better candidate than Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, the centrist option who was the widely perceived favorite in Harris' veepstakes. As governor since 2019, Walz has steered Minnesota towards the left on a variety of economic and social issues. He signed into law a "California-style" environmental bill aimed at cutting emissions and transitioning the state to 100 percent clean energy by 2040. He's expanded access to free college for low-income residents of the state and has tightened the state's gun laws. Walz campaigned in 2018 on a promise to raise Minnesota's gas tax. He has also proposed a new individual income tax rate of 10.85 percenthigher than the current top tax bracket of 9.85 percent, which is already one of the highest state income taxes in the countryon Minnesotans who earn more than $1 million, and he's called for a new tax on capital gains and dividends. None of those measures have passed, thanks to the state legislature, but Walz has been eager to argue that the government should be able to gobble up more of wealthier Minnesotans' assets. "We can cut taxes for the middle class without cutting taxes for massive corporations and the wealthiest people in Minnesota. They don't need a tax cut," Walz said in his 2022 State of the State address. As is sometimes the case, Walz's progressive tendencies have overlapped with libertarian interests on topics like criminal justice reform and drug legalization. He signed the bill that legalized marijuana in Minnesota in 2023, and in 2019 Walz signed legislation to reduce the use of solitary confinement in Minnesota prisons. He's also signed a major permitting reform bill. But those attempts at limiting the government's power over people sit awkwardly alongside the worst part of Walz's record: his heavy-handed approach to the COVID-19 pandemic. With Walz's approval, public schools in Minnesota required children as young as 5 years old to be masked all day. Under his watch, Minnesota's public health authorities set up a hotline to allow people to report their neighbors for violating the state's strict social distancing rules, which included the threat of 90 days in jail for violators. When Republicans in the state legislature called for the hotline to be shut down, Walz defended it. He also told pandemic-weary Minnesotans to stay away from relatively safe outdoor activities like spending time on the state's famous lakes. The Harris campaign likely sees Walz's rhetorical skills as one of his key strengths. He's the originator of the idea to label populist conservatives like Sen. J.D. Vance (ROhio) as "weird"an effective attack since it's pretty obviously true, if petty. But Walz's folksy Midwestern charm doesn't always hit the mark. On at least one occasion, he's described socialism as being akin to "neighborliness." Try pitching that message to Florida voters who fled Castro's Cubaor, for that matter, any American with a passing understanding of history or economics. (That line gets even weirder when you recall that pandemic era hotline. What exactly does Walz think neighborliness means?) Ultimately, Harris' selection of Walz is for Democrats a mirror image of Trump picking Vance as his running mate. Both are Midwesterners who believe the government should spend more and more aggressively tell Americans how to live. There is, unfortunately, very little difference between believing that someone should pay more in taxes because they choose not to have kids or because they happen to be financially successfulit's just a question of, as Vance might put it, deciding which perceived enemies you want to punish with state power. Vance wants the government to be more like a parent, while Walz wants it to be your nosy neighbor. Voters who realize it can't be either of those things won't find much to like about either major party vice presidential nominee this year. The post Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Darling of the Progressive Left, Is Harris' Running Mate appeared first on Reason.com. Jim Vondruska/Getty Images Vice President Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate in the 2024 presidential election, as CNN first reported Tuesday morning. Harris later confirmed the news in a joint social media post with Walz in which she praised the governors defense of abortion rights and his action on gun safety legislation. Walz, who was reportedly championed by House Democrats and former speaker Nancy Pelosi over Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro, has a long record of supporting LGBTQ+ rights, stretching at least back to 1999 when he was the faculty advisor for Mankato West High Schools first-ever Gay-Straight Alliance. A veteran and former teacher, Walz was elected to the House of Representatives in 2007 and served there until 2019 when he became governor of Minnesota. As The Hill noted in its recent recounting of Walzs LGBTQ+ policy positions, Walz ran for Congress while openly supporting same-sex marriage, seven years before Minnesota would eventually legalize it. A National Guard veteran, he has also advocated for the repeal of Dont Ask, Dont Tell, which barred servicemembers from disclosing their sexual orientation, and as governor he has made Minnesota a refuge for youth seeking gender-affirming care via an executive order issued in March 2023. In April of that year, Walz subsequently signed a law banning the dangerous and harmful practice of conversion therapy. Take It From a Lesbian: J.D. Vance Should Be Very Afraid of Childless Cat Ladies Trumps VP pick is about to discover how many feline lovers are single-issue voters. Theres no doubt Kamala Harris has electrified the nation and breathed new hope into the race, Kelley Robinson, Human Rights Campaign President, said in a statement after. Her pick of Governor Walz sends a message that a Harris-Walz Administration will be committed to advancing equality and justice for all. Walz is a blue-state governor who is perceived as less electorally advantageous to the Harris campaign than Shapiro, a popular swing-state executive who could potentially give Democrats an edge in Pennsylvania. The selection of Walz who is credited as the architect of the weird talking point that is currently proving effective against former president Donald Trump and running mate J.D. Vance suggests Harris is looking to boost her appeal with white voters in the Rust Belt states of the Upper Midwest. Get the best of whats queer. Sign up for Thems weekly newsletter here. Originally Appeared on them. Democratic presidential candidate Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her vice-presidential running mate. I am proud to announce that Ive asked Governor Tim Walz to be my running mate, Harris said in a statement. One of the things that stood out to me about Tim is how his convictions on fighting for middle class families run deep. Its personal. As a governor, a coach, a teacher, and a veteran, hes delivered for working families like his own. We are going to build a great partnership. We start out as underdogs but I believe together, we can win this election. The pairs first scheduled public appearance is at Temple University in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening. Walz, 60, has extensive experience in both state and federal government. As a former member of Congress and the current governor of Minnesota, Walz has proven appeal to rural and suburban voters. It is the honor of a lifetime to join @kamalaharris in this campaign, Walz wrote on social media. Im all in. Vice President Harris is showing us the politics of whats possible. It reminds me a bit of the first day of school. (@) Walz has a strong record of supporting LGBTQ+ rights, according to the Human Rights Campaign . In July 2021, he signed an executive order banning the practice of so-called conversion therapy for minors, making Minnesota one of the first states to do so through executive action. He has also supported legislation to protect LGBTQ+ youth in foster care and has been vocal about the need for comprehensive nondiscrimination protections. Walz consistently appointed LGBTQ+ people to key positions in his administration and has worked to make Minnesota a leader in LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity. As a history teacher in the 1990s, Walz helped start his schools first Gay-Straight Alliance. Harriss choice of Walz underscores her strategy to appeal to a broad coalition of voters, including moderates and progressives. Walzs experience as a former U.S. Army National Guard member and teacher, combined with his advocacy for progressive policies such as free school meals and expanded paid worker leave, highlights his commitment to addressing the needs of diverse communities. Harris and Walz will appear at their first joint campaign rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening. The vice president and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff will depart Washington, D.C ., and arrive in Philadelphia in the afternoon. (@) The Harris-Walz ticket will embark on a five-day, multi-city tour of battleground states crucial to the election outcome. The tour includes stops in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin , Michigan , Arizona , and Nevada . A stop in North Carolina has been postponed due to weather conditions in the wake of Tropical Storm Debby. Editors note: This story was updated to include a statement from Vice President Kamala Harris. A northern Minnesota man faces two felony animal mistreatment charges for allegedly shooting his neighbors dog while the German shepherd was in an outdoor kennel. The charges stem from evidence found while the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources was looking into poaching allegations against the man, identified as 26-year-old Brandon Mutchler. The state agency began investigating Mutchlers suspicious activity on Nov. 1 when conservation officer Demo Regas stopped two men dressed in blaze orange in Beltrami County, Minnesota, according to the Star Tribune. The two hunters were Brandon Mutchler and his father, Thomas Mutchler. Regas remembered a Turn In Poachers hotline tip that Brandon Mutchler had possibly shot more than his limit of deer the previous season. According to the Star Tribune, DNR records showed that Mutchler had sent two sets of antlers to two different taxidermists. Beltrami County has a one-buck limit. When questioned, Brandon initially told Regas that he had not killed any deer during the 2022 season. When confronted with the DNR records, Mutchler told the officer he had shot a single buck that he hadnt checked. He claimed his girlfriend had killed the other buck. His girlfriend, however, told Regas that the second buck Brandon had dropped at the taxidermist had been roadkill. Sysco in the field. (The hunter pictured is not Brandon Mutchler.) Photo by Jessica Juelson / Facebook When law enforcement executed a search warrant on the Mutchlers residence, officers discovered a freezer full of venison from multiple deer and a freezer bag containing bear claws. They also discovered a journal that detailed how Brandon had baited bears without a license during the 2022 season. The notebook also indicated he illegally shot a 1 1/2-year-old doe. I get it, Brandon told officers, according to the Star Tribune. I take too many deer, and I didnt register them. In separate interviews, Thomas and Brandon both admitted that their family has been baiting bears on their property for years. Baiting bears is not illegal in Minnesota; however, anyone who fails to register a bait station or who places one without a current year bear license commits a petty misdemeanor. Officials also executed a search warrant on Brandons cell phone, finding hundreds of photos of him, his father, and his brothers with over-limit deer from the 2021, 2022, and 2023 seasons. The phone also had pictures of bears shot in 2021 and 2022 and a timber wolf killed in 2023. Minnesota has no public wolf hunting season because they have been a federally protected species since February 2022. Brandons brother, Matthew, is charged with killing the wolf. Brandon Mutchler, his father, Thomas, and his two brothers, Matthew and Nicholas, are charged with failing to register deer during the 2021-2022 hunting season. He is also charged with overkilling deer, failing to register deer and bear, and illegally transporting bears. Charges indicate he shot four deer total in 2023 (a doe and three bucks) and five deer in 2022 (a doe and four bucks). The search of Brandons phone revealed his search history, which included queries like: How far do police look into pet murders, MN law on killing someones dog, Can police get prints off a fired .22 shell? and Is shooting a dog a felonie. .embed-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .embed-container iframe, .embed-container object, .embed-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; } In August, a Beltrami County Sheriffs deputy took a report of a dog that had been shot inside his kennel, according to KSTP news. The German shepherd named Sysco was owned by Daniel and Jessica Juelson, who discovered six .22-caliber casings outside the dogs kennel, which was just 50 feet from their house, according to a Facebook post by Jessica. Brandon Mutchler was initially a subject in Syscos shooting because of his proximity to the Juelsons home. During questioning, Mutchler denied shooting the dog. Read Next: 3 Teens Arrested After Viral Video Surfaces of a Kid Abusing His Duck Dog In light of the new evidence on Brandons phone, however, he has also been charged with one count each of animal torture and animal cruelty in addition to the poaching-related allegations. Under Minnesota statute, the penalty for intentionally killing a pet is a fine of up to $5,000, up to two years in prison, or both. Failure to register a deer in Minnesota is a petty misdemeanor which carries a $50 fine. It is a gross misdemeanor to not register a bear. In Minnesota, a gross misdemeanor can result in a fine of up to $3,000 and up to a year in prison. GREENFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) The Greenfield Police say a missing teen has been found safe. Education Secretary Patrick Tutwiler hosts listening session in western Massachusetts This, according a posting Monday on the Greenfield Police Departments (GFD) Facebook page. The GFD sought the publics help in finding Cheyenne Medina last week. There is no information on where or how she was found. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Editors note: This article has been updated with the correct age. We regret the error. WINCHESTER, Ky. (FOX 56) The FBI said Haley Hardin has been safely recovered. Previous story: A Louisville teenager has been reported missing and was last seen in central Kentucky. Read more of the latest Kentucky news Haley Hardin has been missing since Sunday and could be on her way to Pennsylvania Haley Hardin has been missing since Sunday and could be on her way to Pennsylvania According to the FBI, 14-year-old Haley Hardin was last seen on Sunday in Winchester and is believed to be traveling to Pennsylvania. The FBI noted that Hardin is 5 feet, 3 inches tall, and weighs around 150 pounds. She has red hair, a scar on her left knee, a nose piercing, and braces. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children said Hardin may also travel to Louisville or Anderson County. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Anyone with information is asked to contact the FBIs Toll-Free tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). You may also contact your local FBI office, the nearest American Embassy or Consulate, or you can submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. Technical issues with the education department's disbursal of federal funds has left many daycare providers struggling to keep their doors open as they wait on payment from the state (Getty Images). Missouris education department hopes to resolve a backlog of payments to daycares across the state in the next two months, agency staff told the State Board of Education on Tuesday. The department previously predicted the backlog which has left many daycares on the brink of closure would be overcome by the end of July. Everyone involved in the process is frustrated, is exhausted, is at the end of their rope, myself included, said Pam Thomas, assistant commissioner for Missouris Office of Childhood. And I think that the only thing that you can say is you recognize it. We sincerely apologize. Technical issues with the education departments disbursal of federal funds has left many daycare providers struggling to keep their doors open as they wait on payment from the state. We understand this program is vital, not only to the providers and the families, but to the employers, to those that are going to school, Thomas said. We understand that and we are doing the best we can to get this cleaned up within the next month and get back on track. The subsidy, part of a federal block grant program that is state-administered, helps cover the cost for daycare owners serving low-income and foster children. The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, which oversees the program, has largely blamed a contracted vendor for the months-long backlogs. The system, which launched in December, is still not fully operational. The vendor contracted to develop and implement the new system for the subsidy program is World Wide Technology, a large technology services provider headquartered in St. Louis. The first time the vendor put more resources and came on site and took us seriously was May 1, she said. We are not experts in an information technology system in the department. She said World Wide Technology has doubled their staffing on the project and brought in experts, but until it did that, the agency was treading water because it didnt have the expertise to fix various issues. The state now has three vendors working on the program and it takes all three of them to come together and get on the same page with what we need, Thomas said. Thomas said they are bringing in outside staff to help work through the backlog, because they have enough staff to process new requests as they come in but do not have the capacity for the backlog on top of that. Those other vendors are MTX Support, to help with the data system, and KinderSystems for administering the system that tracks childrens attendance for payments, said Mallory McGowin, a spokeswoman for the education department, in an email to The Independent. McGowin said it took longer than expected to contract with and onboard the vendors. There are now around 1,800 providers accounts that will be reviewed by the contractors, she said, a process that is currently underway. Thomas estimated it would take 45 working days to clear the backlog, but that is dependent upon the vendor getting those system glitches fixed. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Board member Pamela Westbrooks-Hodge raised concern at the meeting for struggling daycare providers. I am keenly aware, Westbrooks-Hodge said, of the challenges weve heard from providers who literally are going out of business because theyre not being paid. Providers, she added, dont have the margins to tolerate our issues. Karla Eslinger, who has been commissioner of education since July 1, said her agency is doing all it can, and urged providers just keep working with us. She said the problems shouldve been addressed earlier. We should have addressed it this way three months ago, Eslinger told the board. Eslinger added that she has no patience when it comes to this. We will get these folks paid. We will take care of these children. Im hoping that next month were going to have a very, very different story. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Missouri's August primary is today. Polls open at 6 a.m. and remain open until 7 p.m., with unofficial results expected a few hours after that. With party primaries in most statewide offices, the Missouri legislature and U.S. Congress, Greene County Clerk Shane Schoeller has said he expects a 30% voter turnout for the primary election a bit shy of the 32% turnout recorded in 2020 but higher than the 24% logged in 2022. Whether you're still doing your research or want to double-check you have everything you need before heading to the polls, here's a quick refresher of election day dos and don'ts as well as who to call if you run into any problems. Where do I vote? The Greene County Clerk's Office website offers a searchable map of polling locations for local voters online at vote.greenecountymo.gov/voting-information. The Missouri Secretary of State's Office also hosts a website for looking up polling places across the state, at GoVoteMissouri.com. How late can I vote? Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., and as long as you're in line when they close, you'll be allowed to cast your ballot. What do I need to bring with me to vote? Under Voter ID laws passed in 2022, voters must bring a non-expired photo ID issued by the state of Missouri or federal government. Examples of this include a Missouri drivers license, Missouri non-drivers license, a U.S. passport or military ID. You dont need to have a REAL ID to vote, and the address listed on your ID doesnt have to match the address on your voter registration. If you dont have a state or federally issued photo ID, you may cast a provisional ballot. These can be verified and counted by either bringing your photo ID to the polling place before the end of the polling hours, or by checking your signature against the signature on the voter registration form. If you want to double-check your registration, the Secretary of State's Office has an online portal where you can do that at voteroutreach.sos.mo.gov/portal. Who and what is on the ballot? Primary ballots are organized by party, with the option to request a non-partisan ballot featuring only statewide and local questions that don't involve a party nomination. You don't have to be registered with a particular party to pull that party's ballot but you can only choose one. Sample ballots listing all of the candidates and issues are available on the Greene County Clerk's website at vote.greenecountymo.gov/voting-information/#sample. All of the News-Leader's primary election coverage, including overviews of the candidates and ballot measures and individual race profiles, is available online and free to all readers as a public service. Check out News-Leader.com, where you'll find live coverage from the polls along with results Tuesday night. More: What's on the ballot in Springfield and Greene County in the August primary elections What are the rules on electioneering and what shouldn't you wear to the polls? State law prohibits electioneering within 25 feet of polling places, which is most commonly used to keep people from handing out pamphlets, posting signs or otherwise advocating for a candidate or issue within that distance. That includes wearing hats, T-shirts and other clothing with a candidate's name or political party on it, so leave those at home or in the car before heading inside to vote. Who can I call if I have a problem at the polls? If you run into any trouble voting on election day, the Greene County Clerk's Office can be reached at (417) 868-4060. The Missouri Secretary of State's Office also manages an elections integrity hotline at 1-800-669-8683 and can field questions or complaints. The nonpartisan national Election Protection coalition also staffs a hotline, 866-OUR-VOTE, with volunteer attorneys available to answer questions. When will the candidate signs go away? With the November general election on the horizon, at least some of the candidate signs you see around town are likely to stick around (and be joined by others). Signs for candidates who win Tuesday and advance to the November election can stay up, but for candidates who lose in the primary and do not advance, city ordinance requires signs to be removed within 48 hours after the election. To report signs left up in violation of the ordinance, residents can contact Springfield's Citizen Resource Center at 417-864-1010, or submit a service request at https://www.springfieldmo.gov/request or through the citys mobile app, GoSpringfieldMO. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri primary election: Rules, where to vote, what to bring Some parents say guaranteed basic income helped them afford childcare, allowing them to secure jobs and promotions at work. Getty Images; Jenny Chang-Rodriguez/BI Guaranteed basic income helps some parents pay for childcare and stay afloat during maternity leave. With cash payments, parents report more job security and higher educational outcomes. Basic income critics say the programs are too expensive and discourage participants from working. Celeste Lord-Timlin just had her first baby. Siobhan is about a month old, and it's a victory when she naps just long enough for Lord-Timlin to rest or take a phone call. Meals or a shower sometimes have to wait until her husband returns from work and can hold the rosy-cheeked newborn. The 31-year-old and her husband love being parents. She said motherhood can feel "selfless," but it brings her so much joy to have Siobhan sleep on her lap in their Flint, Michigan home. "I am so thankful that I get to be her mom," she told Business Insider. Still, children are expensive. Lord-Timlin was thrilled to find out she was pregnant, but she and her husband have been worried about paying for diapers, nursery essentials, pediatrician visits, a car, and grocery trips. And when Lord-Timlin returns from maternity leave to her full-time job in the public service field, the couple knows they will have to pay thousands of dollars a month in day care fees. It felt overwhelming. Then Lord-Timlin enrolled in RxKids. The guaranteed basic income pilot is offering Flint-based mothers who had or will have children this year $1,500 during pregnancy and $500 a month through their baby's first birthday, no strings attached. So far, the pilot has over 900 participating families. They were not required to meet any household income requirements, which are typical criteria for basic income programs. RxKids is partially financed from the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) fund and has already provided a total of $2 million to new parents. It's expected run through at least 2026, and program leaders hope to extend funding for as long as possible. The US has launched over 100 guaranteed basic income pilots and RxKids joins a growing number focused on families. The cash payment model is an increasingly popular approach to poverty reduction in cities like Los Angeles, Denver, Chicago, and Philadelphia. Pilots offer participants, who are often low-income individuals, recurring cash payments for a set period of time to spend as they choose. As these pilots publish results which include anecdotes from participant interviews, job outcomes, and spending data there's a trend emerging: Parents are using their monthly payments to afford the soaring cost of childcare. And, with stable childcare, parents like Lord-Timlin can have stronger job security and financial freedom. Story continues Shafeka Hashash is the associate director of guaranteed income at the Economic Security Project, an advocacy nonprofit. She told BI that guaranteed basic income lets parents choose a childcare and employment situation that works best for their families. "Not only are they having a more stable source of employment, they're able to spend more time with their kids," she said. The cash has already allowed Lord-Timlin to buy a stroller so she can take Siobhan on walks through their neighborhood. It's also helping her pay for dual master's degrees tuition is costly, and Lord-Timlin lost her FAFSA benefits because she had to switch to part-time enrollment during her pregnancy. She said GBI gave her the flexibility she needed to stay in school. She's expected to graduate next May. Celeste Lord-Timlin enrolled in RxKids, a guaranteed basic income pilot in Flint, Michigan. Photo Courtesy of Celeste Lord-Timlin Parents use guaranteed basic income to pay for childcare, improve job outcomes Nearly one in four parents report being fired from their jobs due to lack of steady childcare, according to a survey of 806 working parents across the US by ReadyNation Council for a Strong America, a bipartisan nonprofit, that was published in 2023. The vast majority of the parents surveyed said childcare challenges hurt their time and productivity at work leading to lower earnings and forgone promotions. Meanwhile, it will cost parents about $26,000 this year to raise one small child in America, about $12,900 of which often goes to paying for childcare. But 13% of American households live at or below the federal poverty line, which is $25,820 annually for a family of three, according to the nonprofit United Way. And around 29% of American households live paycheck to paycheck. Shamarra Woods, 31, is a single mother in Atlanta. When her daughter was a newborn, Woods was selected as a participant for in In Her Hands, a guaranteed basic income pilot for low-income Black women in Georgia. She had previously been struggling to get by and often had to choose between paying her electricity or rent. The pilot, run by the nonprofits Georgia Resilience and Opportunity Fund and GiveDirectly, gave 650 participants $20,400 over two years. Beginning in 2022, one group received $850 a month for 24 months, while Woods' group received $4,300 during the first month of the program, then $700 a month for the following 23 months. Payments concluded in spring 2024. Woods said she spent the first $4,300 to pay outstanding bills, then bought the formula, diapers, and clothing she needed for her newborn baby. And, as her daughter grew into a toddler, Woods directed the money toward day care. The average childcare cost in Atlanta is $20 an hour which amounts to over $3,000 a month if a parent works full-time. Woods recently earned a promotion and raise at her management job, an accomplishment she credits to being able to afford steady, predictable childcare. She feels some anxiety about continuing to pay bills now that her GBI payments have ended, but the promotion makes her feel prepared to support her daughter. "I really wanted that for my daughter," Woods previously told BI. "I wanted to build a really good foundation put her in good schools and really invest in her education. I still want that." Shamarra Woods, 31, said Atlanta's guaranteed basic income pilot helped her afford daycare for her daughter. Photo Courtesy of Shamarra Woods GBI joins other safety nets for families but critics worry cash payments aren't sustainable To be sure, there are still questions about the continued feasibility of guaranteed basic income. More research is needed to determine how GBI impacts participants in the long run, as most pilots only study short-term financial and job outcomes along with participants' self-reported spending data. GBI continues to face political and legal challenges throughout the US. Some lawmakers worry that the millions of dollars it costs to run each pilot isn't sustainable for city, federal, or private funders. Others say that cash payments discourage work. It's also true that not all families struggle to afford stable childcare. Care costs are often at their highest when a child is an infant, but nearly 30% of parents say the expense becomes manageable once their child is old enough to attend school, per the financial research firm Nerdwallet. In the same survey which polled 2,000 US adults in December 2023 one in five parents with children under the age of 18 said the cost of childcare is their biggest financial stressor. The other 80% of parents cited other expenses, like housing. Hashash said that guaranteed basic income can help parents cover these childcare costs and build a career with predictable hours. With cash payments, she said many parents can switch to working one stable job, instead of having to cobble together a living wage with three low-paying gigs. It can also give families the resources they need to pursue higher education and, in turn, potentially land higher-paying roles. "The ability for families to spend that time with their kids: It's not always the most easy thing to quantify in a data point," Hashash said. "That's why it's so important to hear folks stories, and that's what we hear every single time." The GBI model joins other social safety nets for low-income families like the child tax credit and federal programs like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and TANF, she added. As for Lord-Timlin, she's expected to return to work soon. She plans to use her guaranteed basic income to afford childcare for Siobhan, who she wants to raise to be "generous" and "think beyond herself," she said. "Anyone who's had a child knows that this is not like a luxury income," Lord-Timlin said, referring to the cash payments from RxKids. "This is just assisting us in our time of need." Are you a new parent struggling with the costs of raising a child? Have you benefited from a guaranteed basic income program? If you're open to sharing your story, reach out to this reporter at allisonkelly@businessinsider.com. Read the original article on Business Insider Who will be Minnesota governor if Walz wins? What to know about Peggy Flanagan Vice President Kamala Harris named Minnesota Democratic Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate to take on former President Donald Trump and Ohio Sen. JD Vance, but what happens to his seat if he wins a one-way ticket to the White House? That's one of the reasons you have a lieutenant governor. And despite the possibility of Walz winning being a big deal for Minnesota to have a VP in the White House, it could mean even bigger things for Indigenous representation in politics. More: Tim Walz is Kamala Harris' VP pick: Minnesota governor named running mate: Live updates If the Harris-Walz ticket wins in November and Walz becomes vice president, Lieutenant Gov. Peggy Flanagan will step up to the job to fill the remainder of his four-year term. Minnesota Democratic Lieutenant Gov. Peggy Flanagan addresses a crowd at a Biden-Harris campaign rally at the Sabathani Community Center on June 25, 2024. Continue making history If Walz leaves his seat by either winning the general election or stepping down, Flanagan would make history as the first-ever Native American woman governor. A member of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe, she is currently the highest-ranking Native woman elected to an executive office in the country and became the first Native woman to be elected to a statewide office in 2019 when she was elected with Walz. She is also the first Indigenous woman to chair the Democratic Lieutenant Governors Association. Flangan, who will be 45-years-old by the election, would serve the remaining two years of the term and then face re-election in 2026. More: Former Walz intern, Minnesota Rep. Dan Wolgamott shares lessons learned from VP candidate But before a reelection bid would take place, Minnesota Senate President Bobby Joe Champion, DFL-Minneapolis, would replace Flanagan as lieutenant governor and a domino effect of deadlock would fall into replacing him, resulting in a 33-33 split in the chamber. Champion's seat would need to be filled via special election. This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan could be first Native governor UPDATE (9:15 p.m.): A 6-0 city council vote pushed the Gulf Coast passenger train one step closer to the Port City. I dont think anyone really wouldve predicted a couple weeks ago that we would have a unanimous vote, Amtrak spokesperson Marc Magliari said. Hoover football coaches placed on leave Video shows coaches hump, push Bucs players at practice After a long back-and-forth history with Amtrak and the City of Mobile train supporters sat at the edge of their seats in Tuesdays city council meeting. I felt like I was on pins and needles in that meeting, Mobile for Amtrak Founder Bryan Fuenmayor said. Fuenmayor has been pushing for the passenger train service for years and was relieved when the vote came in. I really hate driving, all the people texting and driving, gas; I just changed my oil the other day, and it was $130, Fuenmayor said. Mobile version of Monopoly to feature the Port Citys iconic sights share your suggestions While Mobile residents are excited about the new transportation, David Clark with Visit Mobile said this train will bring in a ton of money to the city. Its easily 8 to 10 million dollars a year in just hotel rooms, food and beverage, attractions, Clark said. The Amtrak train is expected to be up and running by spring 2025. ORIGINAL STORY: MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG) Amtrak train services return to Mobile is one step closer after the City Council passed three amended resolutions on Tuesday. According to previous reporting, the city council voted on three items required to advance the Amtrak project. Those items were a funding agreement, a lease agreement between the City of Mobile and Amtrak, and an intergovernmental agreement between the city and the Alabama Port Authority. 3 Mobile shootings at 3 gated apartment complexes in 3 days what we know During Tuesdays meeting, council members passed all three items with the help of some amendments. Item 01-709, authorizing a funding agreement with the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, passed unanimously following the change of stance of Councilman Josh Woods, Councilman Joel Daves, and Councilman Ben Reynolds. Item 01-710, authorizing an intergovernmental agreement with the Alabama State Port Authority for Amtrak Gulf Coast Service Project, passed unanimously along with an amendment that gives the port authority the right to terminate the agreement if the agreement with the city is terminated. Item 01-711, an agreement with the National Railroad Passenger Corporation for Gulf Coast rail service, passed unanimously, along with an amendment that would terminate the agreement if Amtrak uses the property to expand beyond two trains per day or beyond the northern or eastern limits of the city. UPDATE: Person dead after crash involving Amazon truck Tuesday morning, says MPD Following the unanimous passage of the items with a round of applause, Councilman CJ Small said, Great things going on in the city of Mobile, and Im very excited to be a citizen here in Mobile. The full agenda from todays city council meeting is below. August-6-2024-Agenda-1Download Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5. More than 1,300 University of Illinois Hospital & Clinics nurses have voted to authorize a strike, saying they want better pay, staffing and security. About 98% of 1,377 nurses who voted last week voted in favor of letting their bargaining team call a strike, according to the union, the Illinois Nurses Association. A strike date has not yet been set, and a strike could still be averted. The nurses and health system have several more bargaining dates scheduled for this week. If the nurses set a strike date, they would have to give the health system 10 days notice. UI Health said in a statement Tuesday that it is committed to reaching a mutually acceptable agreement with the nurses and has had 13 meetings with the union since June 18. We value and respect all our essential workers and the critical roles they play in providing vital care for our community, UI Health said in the statement. While we hope a strike will not occur, we will take all necessary steps to prepare for a potential work stoppage to ensure our patients continued care and safety. The nurses four-year contract expires Aug. 19. The nurses want pay thats on-par with other area hospitals, as well as improved staffing. They also want more security at the health system, citing examples of nurses whove been attacked by patients. Nurses want more of a voice on the hospitals workplace violence prevention committee, said Eileen Fajardo-Furlin, a neurosurgical ICU nurse at University of Illinois Hospital and chair of the hospital and unions Nursing Care Committee. Theres no reason for a nurse to be afraid to come to work, said Fajardo-Furlin, adding that nurses in an inpatient psychiatric unit and emergency department, in particular, have faced violent patients. We should not be being assaulted. The nurses last went on strike four years ago, for about a week in 2020. During that strike the hospital brought in temporary nurses, asked ambulances to take new patients elsewhere, didnt take patient transfers from other hospitals and canceled elective procedures. A Cook County judge ruled, at the time, that 525 nurses who worked in critical care units couldnt participate in that strike because it would put patient safety at risk. The University of Illinois board of trustees had sued to keep many of the nurses from striking. The nurses were scheduled to go on strike in 2017 as well, but that strike was averted shortly before it was set to begin. SALEM, Mass. (WWLP) MSPCA-Angell is waiving the adoption fee after an emergency rescue of 40 dogs and cats from South Carolina due to the approaching Tropical Storm Debby. PHOTO: Bobcat spotted observing Ware yard Twenty-four dogs have been picked up by members of the MSPCA-Angell from Charleston Animal Society in North Charleston, South Carolina. Breed mixes including Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, Great Pyrenees, and Belgian Malinois are expected to arrive at the Northeast Animal Shelter in Salem, Massachusetts on Wednesday. Photo courtesy: Charleston Animal Society Photo courtesy: Charleston Animal Society Photo courtesy: Charleston Animal Society Photo courtesy: Charleston Animal Society From Wednesday through Saturday, all dogs one year and older are available for free adoption at all of the MSPCAs shelters during the following hours: In addition, MSPCA-Angell is taking in 19 cats on Tuesday from the Humane Society in Darlington, South Carolina. For more information or to donate for the care the these animals, visit mspca.org/southcarolina. This summer has been incredibly busy for us, said Mike Keiley, MSPCA-Angell vice president of animal protection. Our coalition work is just getting underway, and we have a lot of ambitious plans, but natural disasters never come at a convenient time. We have a natural disaster relief program, and were committed to jumping in to help, regardless of when these things strike, so when we heard about Debby, we knew needed to immediately pivot. Our capacity for housing dogs was already pretty tight, given the ongoing dog population crisis, Keiley expounded. Were tapping into our emergency foster network to help house them, but we really need to find permanent loving homes, and fast. By bringing some of the dogs that were living at CAS up to Massachusetts now, were freeing up space the shelter needs to house dogs impacted by the storm, so theyre more likely to be reunited with their loving families, added Keiley, noting that CAS will also use the additional space to bring in dogs from shelters in low country and coastal parts of South Carolina that are more likely to be impacted by flooding. Some shelters in those areas house dogs outside, so its critically important that were able to free up indoor space for them, and this transport will do that. Unfortunately, it will also cause a capacity crunch in our shelters, so were pivoting to address that as well. Latest Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. More heavy handed. One Tri-Cities council to crack down on homeless camping in parks Richland is poised to put the teeth back in rules that bar camping in parks and other public places, emboldened by a recent U.S. Supreme Court opinion that criminal penalties do not violate Eighth Amendment protections against cruel and unusual punishment. It is the first local city to embrace the ruling. Kennewicks city council plans to talk about the implications at its Aug. 27 workshop. A Pasco official told the Herald that their police will continue to enforce the citys daytime rules on downtown sidewalks. Theres no scheduled discussion of the new court ruling. The Richland council will consider restoring language enabling police and city park rangers to enforce a 72-hour limit on camping across five square miles of public spaces. That includes parks, public facilities, rights of way, federal lands and the Kennewick Irrigation Districts Amon Wasteway. The change is on the councils consent agenda for a first reading Wednesday, Aug. 7, and wont take effect until it is approved for a second reading at a future meeting. Consent items are considered routine and typically are not discussed in public session. However, the citys elected leaders discussed public camping at a workshop in July, when they considered how to adapt to the latest court opinion on homeless camping, Johnson v. Grants Pass, released June 28. Opportunity just opened up for us, Joe Schiessl, deputy city manager, advised. Opportunity for some is a hardship for others, one man told the Herald. A man living with his dog in a car off Columbia Park Trail said the 72-hour limit will hurt people who are barely getting by. The man, who did not give his name, said he ran a business and gave up his rental home when his landlord died and the property fell into disrepair amid a dispute among heirs. I refuse to pay someone elses mortgage, he said, adding, Were all one paycheck away from barbecuing with our dog. The Tri-Cities is reportedly the only urban area in Washington state without a so-called low-barrier shelter, a place for homeless people to seek refuge without having to qualify. The Tri-Cities Union Gospel mission operates shelters for men and women. However, as a private, religious organization, it sets rules its guests must follow and is not classed as low-barrier. Several people gather with their belongings in the entryway of a night club across the street from the Tri-City Union Gospel Mission in downtown Pasco in 2023. Boise homeless ruling overturned The U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned a Ninth Circuit Court ruling in Martin v. Boise that anti-camping ordinances violate the rights of homeless individuals if there was no other place for them to go. In its 6-3 opinion based on a Grants Pass, Ore., case the court affirmed that local governments rather than federal judges hold the power to address homelessness. Richland, which previously amended its camping ordinances to comply with the earlier Boise ruling, is getting ready to undo those changes. In the Boise decision, the Ninth Circuit Court created the Martin test, holding that it was cruel and unusual to enforce anti-camping ordinances if no other shelter was available. To pass the Martin test, Richland tried, but usually failed, to coordinate with Benton County Human Services to help the unhoused with finding shelter. Schiessl explained that The Housing Resource Center is understaffed and has limited hours, rendering it unreachable on nights and weekends, when most crises occur. More often than not, people decline help, he said. The Grants Pass ruling eliminated the Martin test and the need to actively connect people with services. Instead, Richland is considering offering fliers to people in need that detail whats available. A pair of homeless men sit with their belongings in the entryway of a vacant building in Kennewick in 2023. Public camping in Richland Richland has about five square miles of public land, including 330 acres of owned or leased land, 310 miles of right-of-way, 300 acres of federal land and the sprawling Amon Wasteway, a wide gully that extends from Meadow Springs to the Yakima River. Schiessl said car camping is more common than tent camping, but the latter occurs in the Chamna Natural Preserve, Columbia Point South and the abandoned KOA campground east of the Reach Museum at the Richland Wye. He shared a photo of an abandoned encampment packed with discarded belongings and concealed within a Russian olive thicket at Chamna, calling it an example of the types of camps discovered every week in Richland. A Richland resident flagged a recent homeless encampment at Chamna Natural Preserve in July. The city is considering restoring its anti-camping rules following a June Supreme Court opinion that criminal penalties do no violate Eighth Amendment protections against cruel and unusual punishment. Schiessl said the citys process is to contact individuals, post notices on the site, then clean it up. It retains personal possessions after another city in Washington state had to pay a five-figure settlement to an individual who claimed it threw out a priceless heirloom. You never know what somebodys priceless heirloom might be. It might be a bag of Doritos. Thats in jest, but you never know, he said. The city treats almost everything that isnt truly trash as a personal possession. A candy bar wrapper is trash. The candy bar isnt, Schiessl told the council. Few possessions are retrieved later, he added. The Boise case opinion was not carte blanche to camp anywhere. It allowed cities to create no trespassing zones in certain areas. Richland designated more than a dozen areas as off limits to all camping John Dam Plaza, Leslie Groves Park, Howard Amon Park, the Richland Library and Richland City Hall among them. The revised code removes the off-limits list since it is no longer required. Council wants action Richlands elected leaders supported the stronger approach to homeless encampments. Most indicated they want to revive the pre-Boise camping rules. They recognize too that enforcing an ordinance wont eliminate homelessness. There were more than 50 unsheltered people living in Benton and Franklin counties in 2023, according to the most current Point in Time census. An man searches for cigarettes outside the doors of an auto parts store at a shopping area off Highway 395 in Kennewick. The actual figure is thought to be higher and does not include people who are homeless but are living in an emergency shelter or transitional housing. Pandemic related federal aid greatly boosted emergency housing funding, but that ended last year. Mayor Pro Tem Sandra Kent said Richland should work with its neighbors on a solution, but said the city has a right to keep its public spaces safe and clean. We did not set up our parks system and our public facilities to be congregation areas for people experiencing homelessness, she said. Councilwoman Johanna Jones favored heavier enforcement of the camping ordinances and the existing laws against public drug use, littering, dumping and bathroom use. Unless we are a little more strict about how we implement this, we are going to become a Yakima or Spokane or Seattle, she said. We have to be a little more heavy handed on this issue. Councilman Kurt Maier distinguished between mere camping and conduct thats already illegal. Camping is conflated with littering and dumping, but shouldnt be, he said. I dont want them to be treated as the same thing, he said. Councilman Ryan Lukson said he was reluctant to criminalize activities if the city isnt able to enforce it. Washington has a public defender crisis that means few will face criminal penalties for camping. I dont anticipate us ever prosecuting anyone for this, he said. I hate having things were never going to utilize or enforce. Tents were pitched in a parking lot island in 2018 near a food kitchen in Kennewick. Richland not alone The Grants Pass opinion is sparking a broad reaction across the western U.S. The earlier Boise opinion was binding on the Ninth Circuit, a sprawling judicial district that covers California, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Arizona, Alaska, Hawaii, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. The city of Grants Pass, Ore., enjoyed broad support as it pushed to implement its own camping rules with countless jurisdictions arguing that the Boise decision exacerbated homelessness and tied their hands. The cities of Seattle, Chicago, San Francisco, Phoenix, Los Angeles together with organizations representing law enforcement and 20,000 American cities and 3,100 counties filed amicus briefs in support of Grants Passs efforts to enforce camping laws. The Washington State Association of Municipal Attorneys, representing all the states 281 cities, was one of them, as was the League of Oregon Cities and several Idaho organizations. California Gov. Gavin Newsom was among the first to embrace the opinion: He ordered state agencies to begin sweeping homeless encampments in late July. Closer to home, the opinion is prompting the sorts of conversations happening in Richland. Its also sparking a legal backlash with potential to change the legal landscape in Washington state. The American Civil Liberties Union is suing the cities of Spokane and Spokane Valley, saying their anti-camping ordinances violate the state constitution prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment. The ACLU sued after the Washington attorney general refused to make the case. the ACLU did not respond to an inquiry about the case. The Richland City Council plans a special meeting at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 7, in the council chambers, 625 Swift Blvd. Council sessions are broadcast live on CityView Channel 192 and on the citys YouTube Channel. Sign Up: Boom Town Tri-Cities Stay up to date on Tri-Cities growth and development with our weekly business newsletter. Get the latest on restaurant and business openings and closings, plus the regions top housing and employment news. Click here to sign up. In your inbox every Wednesday. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) Clerks and poll workers are looking ahead to the primary election Tuesday after finishing up early in-person voting and as they continue to collect absentee ballots. Early in-person voting started July 27 and ended Sunday. Clerks throughout West Michigan said they saw a greater turnout this time compared to the February presidential primary. Joel Hondorp, the Grand Rapids city clerk, said about 934 people voted early in person for the Aug. 6 primary. That is 250 voters more than in February. I think its very successful. Id like to see more people use it because the more people that vote early, that vote absentee, that takes pressure off of the lines on election day, Hondorp said. What to know about absentee voting and security in Michigan This election marked the second time early in-person voting was an option statewide after voters in approved a ballot initiative requiring it in November 2022. Ottawa County Clerk Justin Roebuck said early in-person turnout was almost doubled in his county for this election compared to Februarys attendance numbers. Ottawa County saw more than 2,800 early in-person voters. There were around 1,500 for the last one. Early voting has been a success in terms of the ease of use for our voters. Its been a simple process for voters to walk into any four of these Ottawa County sites, Roebuck said. The clerks are also seeing more absentee ballots returned. If you havent sent yours back yet, dont put in the mail its too late for it to get back to the clerk in time to be counted. Instead, you can turn it in to your clerks office, leave it in one of your jurisdictions drop boxes or feed it into a tabulator yourself at a polling place Tuesday. Michigan Voter Information Center Both clerks said the early turnout increase is consistent with what they typically see in primaries. They expect even more people to vote in the presidential election on Nov. 5. Obviously well see probably a greater increase in November maybe I would say about double that number and we will probably increase over the years. We saw the same thing with absentee voting as well, Hondorp said. GVSU partnership launches The Peoples Guide to help voters fight misinformation Tuesdays election is a partisan primary: That means you may vote either on the Republican or Democratic side of the ticket, but not both. If you cross columns and vote on both sides, your vote will not count. You can vote on the nonpartisan proposal section, which will be labeled, no matter which partys primary you participate in. *Correction: A previous version of this article misstated the day early voting ended. Statewide, the last day for early voting was Sunday. We regret the error, which has been fixed. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) Starting this Thursday, people planning to commute around the Balboa Park area are encouraged to plan ahead due to the potential of increased traffic. The San Diego Zoo will officially open its Panda Ridge exhibit Thursday in which two giant pandas from China will make their long-awaited public debut. Panda Ridge at the San Diego Zoo will open soon: tips to plan your visit Due to their anticipated popularity, people visiting the zoo or traveling around Balboa Park are advised to use public transportation. Traffic is expected to increase in the area between Thursday and Aug. 11 and then on weekends throughout the rest of the month. Zoo visitors using rideshare services are encouraged to use the main entrance as the address for pick up and drop off. The zoo also offers a free shuttle to and from the Inspiration Point lot, where parking is also free. Additionally, the zoo has a webpage offering ways to help plan your visit including a map of the different exhibits, information for guests with disabilities and more. This San Diego neighborhood among most up-and-coming in US: TravelMag The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System offers convenient options including bus lanes that run along Park Boulevard. Rapid 215 and Route 7 provide direct access to the zoo. MTS commuters under 18 can also take advantage of the Youth Opportunity Pass which allows them to ride for free. For pedestrians and cyclists or people using mobility devices, there are bike lanes and high-visibility crosswalks to utilize along Park Boulevard. Whether you will be visiting the zoo, Balboa Park or just passing through the area, the City of San Diego advises you to consider the different options to avoid gridlock. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. The Morehouse School of Medicine and three other historically Black universities and colleges received major donations from former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and his nonprofit. Bloomberg Philanthropies announced Tuesday that it is donating more than $600 million to Howard University College of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Morehouse School of Medicine and Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Morehouse School of Medicine will receive $175 million. We are immensely grateful to Bloomberg Philanthropies for this generous gift, which will significantly enhance our ability to support the needs and aspirations of our students, while expanding our efforts to diversify the healthcare workforce, said Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice, President and CEO, Morehouse School of Medicine. As we approach our 50th anniversary, this support accelerates our endowment goal and fortifies Morehouse School of Medicines commitment to help build a future where every community has access to quality healthcare. Bloomberg Philanthropies said Tuesdays donation is an extension of a $100 million gift given to the medical schools back in 2020. The donations will more than double the size of three of the medical schools endowments, according to the nonprofit. Michael Bloomberg said his nonprofit is committed to addressing health disparities and underrepresentation. We have much more to do to build a country where every person, regardless of race, has equal access to quality health care and where students from all backgrounds can pursue their dreams, Bloomberg said. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS (Bloomberg) -- Microsoft Corp. said Delta Air Lines Inc. turned down repeated offers for assistance following last months catastrophic system outage, echoing claims by CrowdStrike Holdings Inc. in an increasingly contentious conflict between the carrier and its technology partners. Most Read from Bloomberg Microsoft employees reached out to Delta to give technical support every day from July 19 through July 23, and each time Delta turned down Microsofts offers to help, according to a letter Tuesday from the technology giants attorneys to Deltas representatives. Microsoft Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella also personally emailed Delta CEO Ed Bastian and never heard back. Even though Microsofts software had not caused the CrowdStrike incident, Microsoft immediately jumped in and offered to assist Delta at no charge, according to the letter, which was signed by Mark Cheffo of Dechert LLP. The claims, in response to Deltas hiring of attorney David Boies, heighten the tension after Delta suggested it would try to seek compensation for a breakdown it expects to cost it $500 million this quarter. The airline was slower to recover than competitors after an errant software update from CrowdStrike affected Microsoft systems, creating a cascading effect that led Delta to cancel thousands of flights over several days. Bastian has criticized both CrowdStrike and Microsoft over the outage, telling CNBC in an interview last week that Microsoft is probably the most fragile platform within that space when it comes to large technology providers. Deltas extended recovery time stemmed from the outages effects on an internal system used to process changes to flights and their crews. That left Delta unable to get its aircraft and personnel properly aligned. In its letter, Microsoft said those systems dont use its Windows or Azure products and a review suggests that Delta, unlike its competitors, apparently has not modernized its IT infrastructure. Delta said in an emailed statement Tuesday that it has a long record of investing in safe, reliable and elevated service for our customers and employees. The airline said it has invested billions of dollars since 2016 in capital spending and annual operating costs related to IT. The US Department of Transportation has opened an investigation into Deltas handling of the breakdown and the airline could face a fine from the agency depending on its conclusions. Southwest Airlines Co. was fined $140 million by DOT in 2023 after a meltdown of its operation in late December 2022 stranded more than 2 million passengers. Story continues Microsofts rebuttal comes after CrowdStrike said in a similar letter Sunday that Delta refused offers for assistance. CrowdStrike also said Bastian failed to respond to personal outreach from its CEO, George Kurtz. (Updates with Delta comment in eighth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. This article was originally published in The Texas Tribune. Most Texas adults agree with arguments against school vouchers, but in the end, they still would support legislation that makes such programs available to all families in the state, according to a new survey released Monday. The University of Houston and Texas Southern University survey asked 2,257 adults about their opinions on school vouchers, programs that let families use taxpayer dollars to pay for their childrens private schooling, and education savings accounts, a form of vouchers that state leaders like Gov. Greg Abbott have advocated for since last year. The survey also asked respondents whether they agreed with some of the most common arguments made against and in favor of vouchers. Proponents argue vouchers give families more choices to pick the school that is best for their children while opponents worry they divert money away from already struggling public schools. Get stories like these delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter When they weigh the pros and the cons of vouchers, [respondents came] down on the side of being pro-voucher, said Mark Jones, a professor at Rice University and one of the reports authors. Black adults in particular were more likely to agree with arguments made against school vouchers while still supporting such programs, Jones said. Seventy percent of Black adults supported creating a school voucher program that all Texas families have access to, and 72% supported school voucher legislation that would only benefit low-income families. Black adults were also the most likely to agree with arguments against school voucher legislation like vouchers/ESAs funnel money away from already struggling public schools and vouchers/ESAs provide funding to private schools and individuals with only limited accountability for how the funds are used. I think it has to do in part with a growing share of African Americans who look at their public schools and believe that their public schools are failing them, and dont believe that without some type of change, like the adoption of vouchers, that situation is going to change anytime soon, Jones said. People who identified as Republicans were much more likely to support legislation that would create a voucher program for all families in Texas and less likely to support a proposal only for low-income families, the survey found. Meanwhile, Democrats were more likely to support a voucher program just for low-income families. White Democrats were the least supportive of a voucher program for all families. The survey didnt find a significant difference in support for vouchers between respondents in rural, suburban and urban parts of the state. Vouchers were Abbotts top legislative priority last year. Proposals for an education savings account program ultimately blocked by a coalition of Texas House Democrats and rural Republicans, who have traditionally opposed vouchers. During this years primary elections, Abbott campaigned heavily against Republican incumbents who voted against vouchers, unseating several. Abbott has said the Texas House now has enough votes to pass a voucher program during next years legislative session. Disclosure: Rice University, Texas Southern University Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs and University of Houston have been financial supporters of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribunes journalism. Find a complete list of them here. This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune at https://www.texastribune.org/2024/07/29/texas-vouchers-survey/. The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, nonpartisan newsroom informing and engaging Texans on state politics and policy. Learn more at texastribune.org. CINCINNATI, Ohio (WJW) A man who had been one of Ohios most wanted fugitives for nearly 20 years is in custody. Antonio Riano had been wanted for the shooting death of Benjamin Becarra, 25, in Butler County, Ohio, in 2004. CMPD officer charged with sextortion, disclosing private images On August 1, U.S. Marshals arrested Riano in his hometown of Zapotitlan Palmas, State of Oaxaca, Mexico, where he was working as a police officer, according to a press release. Riano made his first court appearance in Ohio on Monday, where he was ordered held without bond. Riano, now 72, was profiled on the Americas Most Wanted television series in 2005. Police said Riano shot Becerra in the face following an argument inside and then outside of the Round House bar in Hamilton on the afternoon of Dec. 19, 2004, according to FOX 19. This type of apprehension would not be possible without the cooperation and due diligence of both the Prosecutors Office investigators, the United States Marshal Service, and the United States Department of Justice, said Michael T. Gmoser, Butler County prosecutor in a press release. Hurricane Debby blew $1 million worth of cocaine onto Florida beach The Butler County Prosecutors Office teamed up with the U.S. Marshals Service and the U.S. Department of Justices Office of International Affairs who worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure Rianos arrest and extradition. Riano is due back in court later this month. According to Butler County Jail records, Riano is being held on two charges of murder and one count of felony assault. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Moving-related schemes are up more than 124 percent in Charlotte, according to federal regulators. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration data show the crimes are down nationally but nearly doubled across North Carolina over the past year. Charlotte is one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance reports an average of 113 people move to the Queen City area every day. Experts said the high volume of people transferring to the region provides opportunities for scammers. Some of the most common hustles include intentionally misquoting customers during an estimate, operating without licenses, and in some cases holding a customers belongings until they pay a ransom fee. The FMCSA has an ongoing investigation into companies taking hostage loads. Personal finance expert Miranda Marquit is a consumer advocate for HireAHelper, a moving service booking platform. She said the moving process can be stressful and emotional, making people more vulnerable than usual to being scammed. Moving is hard. It is not a good time. Theres a lot of moving pieces. And so, when somebody says, Oh, I will do this for you and I will do this at a price that you just cannot believe, youre so relieved and youre so happy and youre so surprised that its so affordable that you kind of jump in, she said. MORE FROM QUEEN CITY NEWS Crime & Public Safety Industry professionals, like UNITS VP of Business Development Chris Camasta, say its important for a customer to start communicating with potential movers early. Get them to know to the point where you feel comfortable. These are people that are going to be in your house, moving stuff around, Camasta said. Check the Better Business Bureau web pages, make sure that theyre actually a licensed contractor to do what theyre doing. Camasta said that utilizing tools like Google reviews is one of the best ways to start a move off on the right foot. Do your research right, know your budget, inventory your home, and then just understand that its going to be a stressful situation, he said. Marquit recommends searching for movers six to eight weeks before a planned job. As youre comparing prices, you can get something thats sort of in the middle of the pack or toward the higher end, she said. I know it seems really counter-intuitive to look for something toward the higher end of the cost spectrum, but the problem is that its the lower end of the cost spectrum where the schemes happen and then it ends up costing you more in the long run. The U.S. Department of Transportation keeps a list of registered movers. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. How much did it rain in Wisconsin on Monday night? Storms battered several Wisconsin cities late Monday night into early Tuesday morning, with flash flood warnings in effect in southeastern and eastern parts of the state until 10 a.m. Tuesday. Thousands of We Energies customers are also waking up without power Tuesday, with the majority of outages in southeastern Wisconsin. Here's how much it rained in Milwaukee and other Wisconsin cities last night. How much did it rain in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin yesterday? Here's a rundown of the most recent rainfall totals in southeastern Wisconsin, according to the National Weather Service volunteer monitoring service: Menomonee Falls: 0.36 inches Whitefish Bay: 0.43 inches Brookfield: 0.6 inches Wauwatosa: 0.73 inches Kenosha: 0.75 inches Greendale: 0.84 inches West Allis: 0.95 inches Muskego: 0.98 inches South Milwaukee: 1.35 inches Waukesha: 1.33 inches New Berlin: 1.5 inches Racine: 1.63 inches How much did it rain in other Wisconsin cities yesterday? Eastern Wisconsin cities saw among the heaviest rainfall, as the storm moved across state borders into Minnesota. Appleton: 1.18 inches Madison: 1.29 inches Green Bay: 1.39 inches Kewaunee: 1.42 inches Manitowoc: 1.55 inches Sheboygan: 1.55 inches Oshkosh: 1.83 inches St. Croix: 2.32 inches Menomonie: 2.46 inches How much will it rain in Milwaukee on Tuesday? Though storms have subsided, Milwaukee will continue to see cooler and windy weather Tuesday, according to Accuweather. The weather service forecasts cloudy weather with light rain throughout the morning in Milwaukee, with clouds eventually breaking for some sun. About 0.03 inches of rain is expected. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: How much did it rain in Wisconsin yesterday? Rainfall totals, forecast Updated Aug 8, 2024, 7:26am EDT South Asia The News Nobel Peace Prize-winner Muhammad Yunus on Thursday returned to Bangladesh, where he will lead an interim government after weeks of deadly anti-government protests unseated longtime Prime Minister Sheika Hasina. The 84-year-old economist paid tribute to demonstrators who lost their lives in the unrest and said his first task was to restore law and order, AFP reported, after landing at Dhaka airport from Paris. Bangladesh has got a second independence, said Yunus, who is due to be sworn in later today. On Wednesday a Dhaka court acquitted Yunus of charges supporters had said were politically motivated: The microlending pioneer was a longtime opponent of Hasina and emerged as the preferred leader of student protesters who led the anti-government demonstrations. While there is tentative new hope in Bangladesh today, we must remember that these are uncharted territories for us as a nation, the Dhaka Tribune said in an editorial. We must not make the mistakes previous administrations have made. SIGNALS Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories. Incoming leader well-loved at home and by the West Source: Bloomberg Yunus is popular both at home and abroad on account of his pioneering work in microfinance. Locals often show up en masse to hear him speak, especially after his 2006 Nobel Peace Prize win. He also commands respect among Western officials and business leaders. He is the voice of the people left behind, Paul Polman, a former chief executive of Unilever and a personal friend of Yunus, told Bloomberg. Hes a moral leader. Hes not somebody who likes to talk about himself. He likes to talk about the people he serves. Yunus targeted by Hasina government Source: BBC The economist, who devised microlending to allow low-income Bangladeshis to borrow small loans of less than $100, was jailed earlier this year by Hasinas government for allegedly violating the countrys labor laws. He said the charges were part of a broader political retaliation against him, given his vocal criticism of the previous government. Despite being lauded as a friend to Bangladeshs poor, Hasina repeatedly referred to Yunus as a bloodsucker and claimed his bank charged high interest rates on its loans. Its not entirely clear why Hasinas government targeted Yunus, but some think it was due to his unsuccessful efforts to set up his own Citizen Power party in 2007, the BBC reported. Bangladeshs second liberation is under way Source: The Economist Major changes are needed to ensure Bangladeshs continued prosperity in the years ahead, Yunus said. Writing in The Economist on Tuesday, the new leader argued in favor of prompt, free, and fair elections, to be held within the next few months. Yunus also called for the nations young people to step up to leadership roles and run for office after their success in forcing a regime change. We need young people who are not obsessed with settling scores, as too many of our previous governments were, but are instead intent on becoming a new generation of leaders focused on the future of our great nation, he wrote. Multibillion-dollar conglomerate donates $100 million to help conserve North American prairies: 'To leave the world better than I found it' Ducks Unlimited has announced that conglomerate Cox Enterprises has donated $100 million to the nonprofit's Wetlands America Trust, which oversees 400,000 acres of conservation easements and has conserved nearly a billion acres of North American wetlands. The gift was made in honor of Jim Kennedy, chairman emeritus of Cox Enterprises and chairman of the James M. Cox Foundation, Arkansas Money and Politics reported. "Jim's passion for wildlife and wetland conservation is one of his many legacies. It is important to me, our family, and our company that Jim be recognized for his dedication to the environment," Cox Enterprises chairman and CEO Alex Taylor said. "We thought there was no better way to honor him than by creating a fund committed to serving an organization and cause so near to his heart." Ducks Unlimited started nearly 90 years ago to conserve, restore, and manage wetlands and other habitats for waterfowl. DU has been involved in a 27,000-acre donation that serves as a home to several endangered species in Florida and a project that partially restored a wetland in Minnesota. Meanwhile, its land trust focuses on protecting habitats and biodiversity, improving water quality, and protecting against floods and shoreline erosion. Wetlands are a crucial ecosystem that, along with grasslands, help make up prairies and act as breeding grounds for ducks and geese. They harbor numerous aquatic, terrestrial, and arboreal species; purify drinking water; and mitigate the effects of storms. Kennedy has volunteered with Ducks Unlimited for over five decades and served on its board of directors. He was the Wetlands America Trust's founding president and, along with the Cox Foundation and related sources, has donated almost $100 million to the nonprofit organization. "It has always been important to me to leave the world better than I found it, and I was so honored when Alex proposed the idea of creating this fund," Kennedy said. "Ducks Unlimited and Wetlands America Trust are great partners to conserve and restore our prairies for future generations." Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. (WWLP) The main terminal at Bradley International Airport might look a little different the next time you visit. Connecticut man bitten by rare rattlesnake he tried to help ends up in coma According to Bradley International Airport, five murals are now being displayed in the main terminal as part of the airports BDL Art & Music Program, which includes rotating exhibits, permanent displays, and musical performances within the airport. These murals were in partnership with RiseUP for Arts, a Hartford-based community initiative that supports local artists and encourages them to raise their voices through creative expression. This non-profit has completed 250 murals throughout the state since 2015. Local artists Patrick Ganino, Micaela Levesque, and Chris Gann painted the five murals, and their inspiration came from landscapes and imagery that represent Connecticut and New England, some of which include the shoreline, Old Wethersfield, and Kent Falls State Park. Credit: Bradley International Airport Credit: Bradley International Airport Credit: Bradley International Airport Credit: Bradley International Airport Being a long-time resident of Connecticut and a muralist in the state for over 25 years, its an honor to have a piece at the airport, said Patrick Ganino. Traveling the country painting murals puts me inside Bradley Airport more times than not. It will be nice to see a piece of my art in there for all to enjoy. I hope that travelers leave with a deeper appreciation and curiosity for what New England has to offer, said Micaela Levesque. My goal is to inspire more people to explore Connecticuts natural beauty and rich history. Having my artwork displayed in an open and public space like Bradley International Airport gives it a unique opportunity to reach a diverse audience, explains Chris Gann. This exposure allows my art to have a broader impact and potentially inspire and captivate people from all walks of life. It can spark conversations, evoke emotions, and create a sense of wonder and curiosity among viewers. Latest Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Like CrowdStrike, Microsoft is now demanding Delta keep all relevant files relating to its tech infrastructure and dealings with other companies, such as Amazon and IBM, with Microsoft claiming Deltas internal IT is outdated. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI Aug. 6 (UPI) -- The CrowdStrike legal saga continues as Microsoft now says Delta Air Lines ignored its offer to help following a global IT outage caused by a software update error that saw thousands of flights cancelled in July. The tech company's statement comes as Delta seeks compensation for loss of revenue in the hundreds of millions as a direct result of the tech failure. On Tuesday, Microsoft shot back at Delta after the airline publicly revealed on Monday it would seek damages from the tech giant and CrowdStrike. Delta attorney David Boies contends there is "reason to believe" that Microsoft "failed to comply with contractual requirements and otherwise acted in a grossly negligent, indeed willful, manner in connection with the Faulty [CrowdStrike] Update" that caused Windows systems to crash, he wrote in a July 29 letter to Microsoft's chief legal officer, Hossein Nowbar. In response, a Microsoft representative expressed empathy for customers affected by the CrowdStrike incident but was critical of Boies' assessment. Delta's problems continued through July 25 following the July 19 outage, forcing the carrier to cancel more than 5,000 flights. The incident cost Delta Air Lines around $500 million, CEO Ed Bastian said last week. Photo by Tolga Bozoglu/EPA-EFE "But your letter and Delta's public comments are incomplete, false, misleading and damaging to Microsoft and its reputation," Mark Cheffo, co-chair of Dechert's global litigation practice, wrote Tuesday to Boies on behalf of Microsoft. Cheffo says that Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella had allegedly emailed Bastian, "who has never replied." Meanwhile, CrowdStrike also has claimed CEO George Kurtz had reached out to Bastian "but received no response." Delta Air Lines attorney David Boies (2nd from R in New York City in 2019) contends there is reason to believe Microsoft failed to comply with contractual requirements and otherwise acted in a grossly negligent, indeed willful, manner in connection with the Faulty [CrowdStrike] Update that caused Windows systems to crash, he wrote in a July 29 letter to Microsofts chief legal officer. File Photo by Louis Lanzano/UPI "Even though Microsoft's software had not caused the CrowdStrike incident, Microsoft immediately jumped in and offered to assist Delta at no charge following the July 19th outage," the letter from Cheffo reads. "Each day that followed from July 19th through July 23rd, Microsoft employees repeated their offers to help Delta. Each time, Delta turned down Microsoft's offers to help, even though Microsoft would not have charged Delta for this assistance." Delta's problems continued through July 25 following the July 19 outage, forcing the carrier to cancel more than 5,000 flights. The incident cost Delta Air Lines around $500 million, CEO Ed Bastian said last week on CNBC. Like CrowdStrike, Microsoft is now demanding Delta keep all relevant files relating to its tech infrastructure and dealings with other companies, such as Amazon and IBM, with Microsoft claiming Delta's internal IT is dated as Cheffo says it is still figuring out why Delta's competitors, American and United Airlines, were able to bounce back more quickly during the IT failure. Story continues Delta struggled to bring its systems back online longer than other airlines in which Bastian said that some 40,000 servers had to be manually reset. He said getting tracking-related tools back online was particularly crucial because of the important role it played in travel. "Our preliminary review suggests that Delta, unlike its competitors, apparently has not modernized its IT infrastructure, either for the benefit of its customers or for its pilots and flight attendants," Cheffo wrote. On Friday, Bastian told staff that it had been CrowdStrike and Microsoft whose operating systems were affected by the update, that Delta was "planning to pursue legal claims" for losses over the outage and believed there was "no choice" but to seek a legal remedy. On Sunday, CrowdStrike's CEO maintained that the company was not responsible for extended Delta flight disruptions following a global IT outage. The next day on Monday, lawyers for CrowdStrike responded to the threat of legal action by Delta saying in a letter that the airline turned down onsite help from the tech company amid the outage. Michael Carlinsky, an attorney from Crowdstrike, wrote to Boies that CrowdStrike's CEO George Kurtz had "personally" offered onsite assistance to Bastian "but received no response." The threat of legal action, Carlinsky claimed, "contributed to a misleading narrative that CrowdStrike is responsible for Delta's IT decisions and response to the outage." "Should Delta pursue this path, Delta will have to explain to the public, its shareholders and ultimately a jury why CrowdStrike took responsibility for its actions -- swiftly, transparently and constructively -- while Delta did not," he said. Authorities in Michigan and North Carolina are investigating a political action committee backed by Elon Musk over the groups data collection methods, multiple outlets reported Monday. America PAC, which Musk helped found earlier this year, may be violating the states laws by collecting address information from users while claiming it is registering them to vote. Both the Michigan secretary of states office and the North Carolina State Board of Elections are investigating possible violations, Reuters and CNBC reported. Musk previously pledged $45 million per month to America PAC in support of former President Trump, but later backed off that promise. Musk has endorsed Trump for the November election. On the register to vote page of America PACs site, users in Michigan and North Carolina would be directed to submit their personal information, including their address and phone number. They would then not be directed to their states methods of registering to vote, while voters in noncompetitive states would not have to submit information. North Carolina law makes it a crime for someone to fail to submit a voters registration form if that person has told a voter that they would be submitting the voters registration form, North Carolina board spokesperson Patrick Gannon told CNBC. The register to vote page on the site was removed Sunday, according to archived copies of the site, and is no longer available. Every citizen should know exactly how their personal information is being used by PACs, especially if an entity is claiming it will help people register to vote in Michigan or any other state, the Michigan secretary of states office said in a statement to Reuters. The Hill has reached out to America PAC, the Michigan secretary of states office and the North Carolina State Board of Elections for comment. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The social platform X will close its San Francisco office and move workers elsewhere in the Bay Area, it announced internally Monday, according to The New York Times. Employees will move to company offices in Palo Alto and San Jose, CEO Linda Yaccarino said in the memo. The Palo Alto office already has staff from xAI, another Elon Musk-owned firm. This is an important decision that impacts many of you, but it is the right one for our company in the long term, Yaccarino wrote. Musk previously promised to move the companys headquarters to Texas in response to a California law barring teachers from forcibly outing the gender identity of students. SpaceX, also owned by Musk, similarly announced it would move its California headquarters to The Lone Star State last month. X, formerly Twitter, has been headquartered in San Francisco since its founding in 2006. Musk purchased and renamed the company in 2022. The headquarters building itself has garnered headlines since Musk took over the company after X reportedly missed rent payments and attempted to turn empty office spaces into temporary residences for traveling employees. Last year, the company clashed with city authorities over a large glowing X sign on its roof, after neighbors compared it to a bright strobe light. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A flood watch is in effect along the Outer Banks and North Carolina is under a state of emergency as Tropical Storm Debby makes its way north, bringing the threat of heavy rain, flash flooding and dangerous beach and boating conditions to the coast. The flood watch is in effect from noon Tuesday through 8 p.m. Friday from Ocracoke to Duck, with the National Weather Service calling for rainfall amounts of 5 to 10 inches. Tropical Storm Debby made landfall Monday along Floridas Big Bend Coast with torrential rain and high winds that contributed to at least four deaths and hundreds of rescues from people in flooded homes, the Associated Press reported. For the Outer Banks and northeastern North Carolina, uncertainty remained late Tuesday morning with the track and potential impacts beyond mid-week, the NWS Newport/Morehead City forecast office said. Debby is forecast to slowly move off the Georgia coast through Tuesday and make landfall along the South Carolina coast early Thursday. The amount of time and distance Debby remains off the southeast coast will determine how much restrengthening occurs and ultimately the level of impacts we may experience from additional hazards, including wind, tornado and storm surge, the Dare County Sheriffs Office said in a Tuesday morning social media post. Emergency management officials in Currituck and Dare counties said it is imperative visitors and residents keep an eye on the official forecast track. Please dont write Debby off as a weakening tropical storm, Dare County Emergency Management Director Drew Pearson said Monday night. Lets keep our guard up until the uncertainty is eliminated over the next few days. Currituck County officials said they are following the storms track and will have all emergency response departments fully staffed throughout the storm. North Carolina Department of Transportation crews were staging equipment Tuesday morning from Oregon Inlet to Ocracoke in all the usual hotspots, the agency said on social media. Sections of N.C. 12 on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands are prone to flooding and severe ocean overwash, even during mild wind and rain events. NCDOT also was checking stormwater structures and ditches along Hatteras and Ocracoke islands. The agency said heavy rain will be the main threat as Debby moves through, with ocean overwash flooding also likely if the storm tracks closer to the Outer Banks. Gov. Roy Coopers office called a state of emergency Monday due to the potential for life-threatening flash flooding, riverine flooding, wind gusts up to 40 mph, coastal impacts and other effects. This weather has the potential to bring intense rain and flooding to North Carolina and we are preparing for it, Cooper said in a release. As the weather becomes more severe, I urge everyone to take precautions and stay safe. The order activates the state emergency operations plan and allows for state transportation and public safety authorities to ensure the expeditious movement of utility vehicles to eliminate power outages, vehicles carrying essential supplies such as food, medicine and fuel or transporting livestock, poultry and crops. The governors office said North Carolinians should prepare for heavy rainfall, wind, flooding and power outages starting Tuesday, and offered the following tips to stay safe and prepared: Never drive through flooded roadways or around barricades. Make sure you know where to seek shelter if a tornado warning is issued for your area. Ensure that you have multiple ways to receive warnings, especially with the potential for severe storms to be moving through during nighttime hours. Check to see if your community offers emergency alert services for its residents. Avoid unnecessary travel. CNN Rep. Nancy Pelosi was questioned Monday about her role in President Joe Biden opting out of the 2024 contest and whether the two are now on good terms. On CNN, Pelosi, who said she hasnt spoken to Biden since he dropped out on July 21, had a somewhat cryptic answer when asked if everything is okay in their working relationship. Youd have to ask him, but Id hope so. But he knowslook, I have loved Joe Biden, respected him for over 40 years, Pelosi told anchor Dana Bash. I think he has made one of the biggest contributions to our country, to our world, in the shortest period of time of any president you can name. Bash then asked whether Pelosi had a hand in some high-profile Democrats in Congress, like Reps. Adam Schiff and Jamie Raskin, calling for Biden to step aside. Pelosi, it was reported, was working to get Biden to make that decision, including by telling him that polls indicated that he would lose to Trump. Pelosi denied involvement when Bash noted that Schiff and Raskin were some of Pelosis allies. I have tons of allies, she said. No, I had nothing to do with that, and if you ask them, its almost insulting to them because theyre formidable figures in the Congress of the United States. They make their own judgment and their own statement. Pelosi has said elsewhere that her persuasion efforts were motivated by the goal of defeating Donald Trump. On CNN, the former House speaker was also asked about some key moments with the then-president that she writes about in her new book, The Art of Power. Before Trumps first impeachment, for instance, Pelosi writes that he became increasingly whiny while insisting during a phone call that theres no reason to impeach me. He was saying, Its a perfect call. Its a perfect call, Pelosi told Bash. And I was saying, Its a perfectly clear call. And we will be going forward. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Nancy Pelosi says she hasn't spoken to Joe Biden since he dropped out of the race for president Nancy Pelosi says she hasn't spoken to Joe Biden since he dropped out of the race for president Nancy Pelosi told CNN she hasn't spoken to Joe Biden since he ended his campaign for president. When asked about the health of their relationship, Pelosi said, "You'd have to ask him." Pelosi has denied pressuring Biden to step aside. In her first interview since Joe Biden ended his reelection campaign, Rep. Nancy Pelosi said she hasn't spoken to him since. Speaking to CNN, Pelosi said she hopes to speak with Biden, but "we're all busy." When the prominent California Democrat was asked about if her relationship with the president is all right, Pelosi said, "You'd have to ask him, but I hope so." "Look, I have loved Joe Biden, respected him for over 40 years," Pelosi said, recounting how she'd worked closely with Biden in her years as a member of Congress. "I think he has made one of the biggest contributions to our country in the shortest period of time of any president you can name." She added: "He's been a great president with a vision for our country based on values, knowledge, and judgment and a heart full of love for the American people." Biden ended his presidential campaign on July 21. Though she has denied pressuring him to step aside, Pelosi is widely regarded as one of the most powerful Democratic lawmakers and a frequent bellwether of the party's sentiment. Several of Pelosi's closest allies Reps. Adam Schiff of California, Jamie Raskin of Maryland, and Zoe Lofgren of California went public with their opinions that Biden should drop out of the race in rapid succession, prompting speculation in Washington that the Speaker Emerita orchestrated the growing calls among Democratic lawmakers for Biden to abandon his campaign. "I know I had nothing to do with that," Pelosi told CNN when asked if she was behind the members' unified message for Biden to drop out. "And if you ask them, it's almost insulting to them because they're formidable figures in the Congress of the United States; they make their own judgment and their own statements." Representatives for Biden and a spokesperson for Pelosi did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Business Insider. Read the original article on Business Insider Sign up for CNNs Wonder Theory science newsletter. Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more. The launch of SpaceXs Crew-9 mission, an endeavor planned to ferry four astronauts to the International Space Station which could also serve as a backup vehicle for the crew assigned to Boeings troubled Starliner spacecraft will be delayed, NASA announced Tuesday. The space agency said the move allows more time for mission managers to finalize return planning for the Starliner and its crew, according to a written update from the space agency. NASA will host a news conference on the change Wednesday at 12:30 pm ET. The brief NASA update lands as rumors swirl about the fate of the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, which has remained attached to the space station for roughly seven weeks longer than expected, leaving its two crewmembers veteran NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore in limbo aboard the orbiting laboratory. NASA now says the SpaceX Crew-9 mission wont launch until September 24 at the earliest. Back in July, the agency indicated SpaceX could launch its Crew-9 mission as soon as August 18 after Williams and Wilmore returned to Earth aboard Starliner. Boeing also said July 25 that engineers had conducted rigorous ground tests and narrowed down the likely root cause of issues Starliner experienced in June on the first leg of its historic crewed test flight including five thrusters that abruptly stopped working and helium leaks that cropped up en route. That process of testing and discovery, officials said, was meant to pave the way for NASA to determine whether Starliner could bring Williams and Wilmore home. But now those efforts appear to be stalled. NASA had said July 26 that it expected to begin a flight readiness review for the Starliner in the first couple days of August. That review process still has not started, NASA confirmed to CNN, because the space agency has not yet decided on a target return date. Ultimately, NASA administrator Bill Nelson will make the final decision about how and when Williams and Wilmore return home, according to Meira Bernstein, NASAs acting press secretary. His top priority, as always, is the safety of the crew, Bernstein said. SpaceX and Boeing personnel wont be participating in the Wednesday news conference, leaving the job of addressing the murky status of both missions SpaceX Crew-9 and Boeings Starliner Crew Flight Test to space agency officials alone. Starliners uncertain future NASA told reporters in July that Starliner will have to fly home solely under computer control even if there are astronauts on board. Though Boeing and the space agency allowed Williams and Wilmore to briefly take over control of the Starliner on the way to the space station, engineers later determined manual operations caused increased strain on the propulsion system. Some of the manual maneuvering put some extra stress on the thrusters, Steve Stich, NASAs Commercial crew program manager, said July 25. Boeing, however, has not wavered from its stance: The company maintains that it has worked to understand Starliners propulsion issues and is confident that the vehicle is safe to bring its crew home, according to an August 2 statement from the company. Williams and Wilmore docked at the space station on June 6 and have now been there for 61 days as mission teams conducted tests and analyses to determine the cause of the thruster issues and helium leaks. NASA has said tapping SpaceX to step in and bring the Starliner astronauts home was a contingency for the mission, but the space agency has consistently stated that it is not the desired scenario. There is a lot of good reasons to complete this mission and bring Butch and Suni home on Starliner, Stich said during the July briefing. Mark Nappi, Boeings Commercial Crew Program manager, added, Of course, Im very confident we have a good vehicle to bring the crew back with. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com NASA has yet to make a decision on when Boeings Starliner can return home or whether or not it will have its two astronauts on board. That delay has also led to a decision to delay the planned SpaceX Crew-9 mission. NASA announced Tuesday it would target no earlier than Sept. 24 for the launch of the SpaceX Crew Dragon Freedom and its planned crew of NASA astronauts Zena Cardman, Nick Hague and Stephanie Wilson along with Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov. Theyre supposed to relieve the four members of Crew-8 who have been on board the International Space Station since March. Also on board are NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams who flew up on Starliner as part of the Crew Flight Test arriving on June 6 after launching the day before from Cape Canaveral. Issues with the Starliners propulsion systems thrusters and helium leaks, though, have caused delays in the decision on when and how Starliner will return home. This adjustment allows more time for mission managers to finalize return planning for the agencys Boeing Crew Flight Test currently docked to the orbiting laboratory, NASA posted on its website. Starliner ground teams are taking their time to analyze the results of recent docked hot-fire testing, finalize flight rationale for the spacecrafts integrated propulsion system, and confirm system reliability ahead of Starliners return to Earth. NASA said no decision has been made about Starliners return, and has yet to nail down a date for the return readiness review that had been planned for last week. NASA said pushing Crew-9, which was originally targeting as early as Aug. 18 for launch, will deconflict with a planned crew rotation from its Russian partners who are slated to fly up a Soyuz spacecraft with NASA astronaut Donald Pettit and a pair of Russian cosmonauts in early September. NASA also is delaying SpaceXs next planned resupply cargo mission CRS-31 to no earlier than October. The ISS has only two ports that can support either Dragon spacecraft or Starliner. Right now, both parking spaces are taken, and one has to leave before another can arrive. Of note, Crew-9 will be targeting to launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Stations Space Launch Complex 40, which could mark the first human spaceflight from the launch pad. Crew Dragon launches have all previously flown from Kennedy Space Centers Launch Pad 39-A, but that pad will be in use beginning in September to prepare for NASAs Europa Clipper mission set to fly on SpaceXs Falcon Heavy in October. SpaceX had added a crew access arm to allow for human spaceflight from either of its Space Coast launch sites. SpaceX also had a planned launch of the Polaris Dawn mission with billionaire Jared Issacman on an orbital flight plan, not visiting the ISS. A decision had not been announced on whether it would fly from KSC or the Cape. It was originally targeting to fly at the end of July, but gave way to the original Crew-9 date. SpaceX officials had previously said they would still try to fly it before the end of August, but have yet to announce if its launch plans were changing. ____ The presidents of America's four historically Black medical schools, including Meharry Medical College in Nashville, were invited to a meeting on July 29 with Bloomberg Philanthropies in New York. They thought the meeting would be a chance to celebrate a $100 million gift the foundation made to the schools in 2020 for the relief of their students' debt. Instead, they were told the foundation of entrepreneur and former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg would be making a new gift, one that left the presidents speechless. Bloomberg Philanthropies will donate $600 million to Meharry and the three other historically Black medical schools, Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C., Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta and the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles. "We were all stunned by the size of that number," said Meharry's president Dr. James E.K. Hildreth. Meharry will receive $175 million of that gift for its endowment. The donation will nearly double the endowment of Meharry, which was founded in 1876. Meharry Medical College in Nashville is one of the few historically Black medical schools in the United States. The gift is part of the foundation's Greenwood Initiative, a program to build wealth among Black Americans and redress historic underfunding in Black communities. "We have much more to do to build a country where every person, regardless of race, has equal access to quality health careand where students from all backgrounds can pursue their dreams," Bloomberg said in a statement. The $100 million 2020 donation was also made through the Greenwood Initiative. That gift went to ease the student debt of 1,000 current Black medical students. Meharry received $34 million of those funds. At the time, it was the largest single donation the school had received in its history. "We believed that lessening the debt load would give students more agency and choice in where they practice and what they choose to specialize in," said Garnesha Ezediaro, who leads the Greenwood Initiative. Bloomberg Philanthropies found that 75% of the medical students who received the debt relief went on to practice in underserved communities. Donations to the four historically Black medical schools also increased. In 2019, the year before the Bloomberg gift, the four schools received $29 million in donations. In 2021, the number jumped to $185 million. Now, with its $600 million gift, Bloomberg Philanthropies wants to strengthen these institutions that, despite decades of underfunding, still graduate nearly half of all Black doctors, officials said. Research shows that Black patients receive better medical care when treated by Black doctors. Yet only 6% of doctors in the United States are Black. "Endowments are important because they allow you to weather financial storm," Hildreth said. "They also allow you to use the earnings to invest in your students and your programs. It means a generational impact, because students that come to Meharry 10 years from now, 20 years from now, will benefit from this gift." This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville Meharry Medical School gifted $175M by Bloomberg in New York Twitter's official profile on a smartphone screen features the white letter X on a black background. Monika Skolimowska/dpa Elon Musk's social media platform X is suing a group of advertisers, claiming they engaged in an "illegal boycott" of the Twitter successor. "We tried peace for two years, now it is war," Musk posted on X. The advertisers Musk is taking to court include the consumer goods giant Unilever, the packaged food company Mars and drugstore chain owner CVS Health, among others. The lawsuit filed on Tuesday in a US district court in Texas alleges a coordinated "massive advertiser boycott" that deprived the company of "billions of dollars" and violated US competition laws. The World Federation of Advertisers (WFA), a trade body which is also being sued, did not initially respond to the allegations. The lawsuit alleges that companies boycotted X through a WFA initiative called the Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM). The initiative had raised concerns about safety issues on the platform. The lawsuit escalates a fight that began with Musk's takeover of Twitter in October 2022. The tech billionaire, who describes himself as an advocate of unrestricted freedom of speech, relaxed the implementation of Twitter rules against the spread of hate speech and misinformation. An exodus of large and small advertisers followed. The companies are worried about their reputation, with hate speech researchers demonstrating how adverts from well-known brands can appear alongside anti-Semitic or racist posts. X, however, has denied allegations that hate speech is proliferating on the platform. With the GARM initiative, advertisers have aimed to prevent their ad buys from appearing next to problematic content by only doing business with the platforms that adhere to certain guidelines. X counters that the trade body was illegally trying to force the service to implement the guidelines with a boycott. "I strongly encourage any company who has been systematically boycotted by advertisers to file a lawsuit," Musk wrote on Tuesday. LONG ISLAND, N.Y. (PIX11) Nassau County lawmakers voted to approve the lease of the Nassau County Veterans Memorial Coliseum for a casino on Monday night. The lease for the land will go to Las Vegas Sands, which will still need to obtain its casino license from New York State. More Long Island News In a long-term lease deal, the next step would be a vote to build one of the nations largest casinos on 80 acres of property in Uniondale. We are grateful to the Nassau County Legislature for approving the Nassau County Veterans Memorial Coliseum lease today in near unanimous votes of 19-0 and 18-1. With these vote, the 400+ employees and management of the Coliseum will sleep better at night knowing their jobs are safe. We are also deeply grateful to the many hundreds of supporters and community leaders that have turned out to share their voice on this project and the opportunities it holds. Tracey Edwards, Las Vegas Sands senior vice president and corporate social responsibility officer Jonathan Rizk is a digital journalist who has covered local news in New York City and Washington, D.C. He has been with PIX11 since August 2022. See more of his work here, and follow him on X and Facebook @OfficialRizk. Get in touch at jonathan.rizk@pix11.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. LONG ISLAND, N.Y. (PIX11) Nassau County lawmakers voted to ban masks in public on Monday night. The ban passed with 12 people voting yes and seven abstaining. More Long Island News Unless someone has a medical condition or a religious imperative, people should not be allowed to cover their face in a manner that hides their identity when in public, said County Executive Bruce Blakeman. In a statement, the New York Civil Liberties Union condemned the vote, saying: Nassau Countys mask ban is a dangerous misuse of the law to score political points and target protestors. Barring people who speak out from protecting themselves and their identities puts their health and well-being in danger, particularly people with disabilities, people of color, and those with unpopular views. Masks protect people who express political opinions that are unpopular. Making anonymous protest illegal chills political action and is ripe for selective enforcement, leading to doxxing, surveillance, and retaliation against protesters. Banning face masks also puts Nassau County residents health at risk. With COVID-19 on the rise across Long Island, face coverings are critical to protecting the health of an individual, their family, and their communityThe bans so-called health and religious exceptions are entirely inadequate: Nassau County police officers are not health professionals or religious experts capable of deciding who needs a mask and who doesnt. Susan Gottehrer, Nassau County regional director of the NYCLU Officials said a woman allegedly became disruptive during the meeting and was taken into police custody around 6:30 p.m. Jonathan Rizk is a digital journalist who has covered local news in New York City and Washington, D.C. He has been with PIX11 since August 2022. See more of his work here, and follow him on X and Facebook @OfficialRizk. Get in touch at jonathan.rizk@pix11.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. ST. LOUIS As the Missouri primary election is less than 24 hours away, one race in St. Louis is making national history: the Democratic contest for the U.S. House of Representatives. FOX 2 caught up with incumbent Congresswoman Cori Bush and challenger St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell Monday. In a race where tens of millions of dollars in outside spending on political ads have dominated, both are making their final appeals to voters. Im speaking loud. Im standing up for those who are often times overlooked and most marginalized in our communities, Bush told FOX 2. Im being vulnerable about it, but Im also delivering back on the promise of trying to help us to thrive. One campaign has been focused on division. One campaign, our campaign, has been focused on a vision, Bell said, campaigning with a Pasta House lunch crowd. This regions been dying a slow death, losing population. Our educational systems have been struggling; weve been losing jobs; those are the things weve been focusing on. The company AdImpact, which tracks campaign spending, now lists the Bush and Bell, Missouris 1st District, campaign as the second most expensive House primary race in history, at $18.2 million and counting. It trails only the New York 16th District race, in which Bushs ally and fellow progressive member Jamaal Bowman lost in June amid heavy spending against him from pro-Israeli political action committees (PACs). Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Politics Like Bowman, Bush has been very critical of Israels military response in Gaza to the Oct. 7 Hamas attack against Israel. Bush has repeatedly accused Israel of conducting genocide in Gaza. Justice Democrats, a progressive PAC supporting Bush, reports more than $15 million in outside spending in this race. More than two-thirds of it has been spent against Bush, or for Bell. FOX 2s Hancock and Kelley political team sees the same factors that worked against Bowman now working against Bush. What money does is it creates attention, activity, and it inflates turnout. The louder this race has become, the more and more likely it is that Bell is going to win. Why? Because the turnouts going to be higher, Republican consultant John Hancock said. He predicted Bell could win by 10% or more. Democrat consultant Michael Kelley agrees Bell will win, but he sees a much tighter race. This is going to be a close race but Wesley Bells going to win it and its going to wind up the most expensive congressional race in the country. Think about that, here in St. Louis! Kelley said. The winner is seen as a shoe-in to beat the Republican nominee in November in a heavily Democratic St. Louis. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. NATOs press service has released a video showing Ukrainian pilots training on F-16 fighter jets, some of which have already been deployed in Ukraine. Source: European Pravda Details: A short video about the training of Ukrainian pilots and technicians on F-16s in Denmark has been posted on the Alliances official X (Twitter) account. F-16s have arrived in Ukraine Look back at Danish instructors training Ukrainian pilots, technicians and ground crew how to fly and maintain the fighter jets #StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/dQSLoCalLi NATO (@NATO) August 6, 2024 One of the pilots says flying F-16s is really fun, even though he wouldnt describe flying a Soviet MiG aircraft as "super boring" either. "But the F-16 is definitely more agile. It moves very easily," he reveals. Major General Jan Dam, Chief of the Royal Danish Air Force, comments that the F-16s, even though they are a relatively old model, have been modernised several times. "Now its a very modern aircraft, comparable with the best Western fighter jets," he notes. The NATO press service states that the F-16s are being donated to Ukraine by Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium and Norway. Background: On 4 August, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that the first F-16 fighter jets were in Ukraine, and showed them off to the public at a secret airbase. Western media outlets had reported, citing sources, that six fighter jets were being provided by the Netherlands, and several more would shortly be sent from Denmark. Support UP or become our patron! Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren marched with protestors on Aug. 2, 2024, in Cameron, Arizona, to oppose the transportation of uranium across Navajo land. (Photo courtesy of the Navajo Nation Office of the President) Tribal leaders from the Havasupai Tribe and Navajo Nation were led to believe that Energy Fuels Resources, Inc., would give their communities two weeks notice before they started hauling uranium ore from Pinyon Plain Mine near the Grand Canyon. However, that wasnt the case when Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren and the Havasupai learned on July 30 that two trucks hauling uranium ore were already en route to the uranium mill in Utah. They snuck through the Navajo Nation, Nygren said. By the end of the day, Nygren was informed that two trucks carrying uranium ore from the Pinyon Mine had passed through the Navajo Nation and reached Utah. They operated covertly to travel (through) the Navajo Nation illegally, Nygren said. They smuggled uranium across our nation, which is very inappropriate. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Energy Fuels Resources, Inc. (EFRI), the owner of Pinyon Plain Mine, started transporting uranium ore from the mine near the Grand Canyon to the White Mesa Mill in Blanding, Utah, on July 30. The transportation routes to move the uranium from the Pinyon Plain Mine go through several tribal communities, including lands of the Navajo, Hopi, Havasupai and Ute Mountain Ute. Pinyon Plain Mine owners have strategically taken steps to attack the sovereignty of the Havasupai Tribe and neighboring Tribes, the Havasupai Tribe said in a written statement. Despite our continuous opposition, Energy Fuels Resources, Inc. has once again acted in its own self-serving interest by beginning to haul uranium ore on public roads, through our ancestral lands, and into the Navajo Nation. The Havasupai Tribe said that Energy Fuels Resources promised months ago to give the Havasupai, neighboring tribes, the U.S. Forest Service and other stakeholders two weeks notice before hauling the uranium ore to the processing mill in Utah. The tribe said it relied on the good faith promise of EFRI to provide the notice, but EFRI blatantly disregarded its good faith promise and notified the U.S. Forest Service hours after the haul trucks departed the mine site. EFRI has demonstrated by its actions that it cannot be trusted, the Havasupai Tribe said. The tribe has opposed uranium mining in and near the Grand Canyon for generations and has been vocally opposed to the operation of the Pinyon Plain Mine and have been trying for decades to shut it down. Our purpose of opposing uranium mining remains for the protection of our drinking water and the health and safety of our Tribal members and tourists who visit our reservation, the tribe said. Pinyon Plain Mine started operations again in December 2023 due to the high demand for uranium. By Jan 8, EFRI notified the Kaibab National Forest that it had extracted uranium ore from the Pinyon Plain Mine and placed it on an ore pad, according to the U.S. Forest Service. This was the first time uranium ore had been removed from the mine. The Havasupai Tribe does not stand alone in our fight against uranium mining, and we will continue to offer our support to the Navajo Nation, the tribe said. The Havasupai Tribe strongly condemns EFRls actions, and we will continue to fight against both the mining and transportation of uranium anywhere within our aboriginal territory. The trucks route enters the Navajo Nation at Grey Mountain and passes through multiple Navajo communities, including Cameron, Tuba City, Kayenta and Mexican Water. The legacy of uranium mining has harmed the Navajo Nation for decades, from abandoned mines to contaminated waste disposal. From 1944 to 1986, nearly 30 million tons of uranium ore were extracted from Navajo lands, according to the EPA, and hundreds of Navajo people worked in the mines, often living and raising families near the mines and mills. The Navajo Nation has sacrificed so much for this country through the mining and processing of uranium ore extracted from our lands, said Navajo Nation Council Delegate Casey Allen Johnson, who represents Cameron Chapter, one of the communities along the trucks route. Energy Fuels Resources is threatening the lives and health of our people by transporting uranium across our land, Allen added. Between the 1940s and 1990s, thousands of uranium mines operated in the United States, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Most operated in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, New Mexico and Arizona, typically on federal and tribal lands. The number of mining locations associated with uranium is around 15,000, according to the EPA, and of those, more than 4,000 have documented uranium production. Our Navajo people have suffered for many years, and many lost their lives due to uranium mining on our homelands, Navajo Nation Council Speaker Crystalyne Curley said, adding that the council strongly condemns the actions of Energy Fuels Resources. The Navajo Nation will continue to oppose and fight against the transportation of uranium ore through our lands for the health and safety of our people, Curley added, In response to EFRIs transportation of uranium ore across the Navajo Nation, Nygren issued an executive order on July 31 that will require an agreement to be put in place before the transportation of radioactive material through the tribes land. The executive order will be in place for six months. Nygren said the tribe is doing so because it is his job as president to enforce the laws on the Navajo Nation to ensure the safety of the Navajo people and respect for Navajo sovereignty. The Navajo Nation outlawed the transportation of uranium ore through their homelands over a decade ago as part of the Navajo Nations 2012 Radioactive and Related Substances, Equipment, Vehicles, Persons, and Materials Transportation Act. The law prohibits the transport of uranium mining products within the Navajo Nation unless it complies with the transportation notice and other requirements. The tribe said that EFRI did not notify Navajo Nation officials of the transportation of an estimated 50 tons of uranium mine ore through the tribes lands. Nygren said the companys failure to seek approval from the Navajo Nation for transporting radioactive materials across its land disregards the nations governmental authority and sovereignty. If youre going to smuggle uranium into our borders and across our nation and outside, thats pretty much illegal, he added. Im very disappointed that this is happening in this day and age. The Havasupai Tribe and Navajo Nation have called upon state and federal leaders to support their efforts to halt the transportation of uranium ore through tribal lands. The Arizona Attorney Generals Office was informed of the uranium ore transportation on July 31. Attorney General Kris Mayes said that her office is researching options and remains committed to doing everything in her power to protect the health and safety of all Arizonans. Hauling radioactive materials through rural Arizona, including across the Navajo Nation, without providing notice or transparency and without providing an emergency plan is unacceptable, she added. Gov. Katie Hobbs said in a statement that she has been communicating with the Navajo Nation and EFRI as they navigate the situation. My administration worked with EFRI to voluntarily agree to pause ore shipments through Navajo lands to give both sides an opportunity to engage in good faith negotiations, Hobbs said. I have also instructed (the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs) to partner with tribal law enforcement and assist the Navajo Nations emergency management team in developing an emergency response plan in the event of a road incident, she added. Hobb said her administration had asked EFRI to engage in ongoing discussions with stakeholders about the safety concerns surrounding the Pinyon Plain Mine and uranium ore transport. They have agreed, she said. My hope is that these steps and good-faith negotiations between both parties during the temporary pause will bring an acceptable solution, she said. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Navajo Nation Veterans Administration Director Bobbie Ann Baldwin said it was an honor of a lifetime to present the keys to his newly renovated house to Navajo Code Talker John Kinsel, Sr., 107, on Aug. 1. (Photo/Navajo Nation) LUKACHUKAI, Ariz. The Navajo Nations oldest code talker waited years to see the log home he built himself receive the renovations it needed. On Wednesday, Navajo Code Talker John Kinsel, Sr., 107, his family and the Navajo Nation Veterans Administration celebrated the turnover of keys to his newly renovated home that he built in 1950. Mr. Kinsel fought for all of us, President Nygren said to Mr. Kinsel by video. He used our language to protect us and keep us alive to this day. He deserves these upgrades to his home. The renovations needed to happen a long time ago. Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Last May, President Nygren joined Mr. Kinsel, his family and workers from The Sparrow Group for a groundbreaking when renovations began. An all-Navajo crew completed Mr. Kinsels home renovations in eight weeks, just two weeks before Navajo Code Talkers Day on August 14. Mr. Kinsel told the Veterans Administration he did not want the new home he was eligible for. He said he preferred to stay in the house he built from logs brought from the Lukachukai Mountains in a horse-drawn wagon with two large Clydesdales. Veterans Administration Director Bobbie Ann Baldwin said it was an honor of a lifetime for the Navajo VA and the contractor team to renovate a home for our chei, our patriarch, our national treasure. Oh, my goodness, it was amazing, she said. For me, as a Marine, helping my brother Marine into a safe comfortable home is beyond words. As Marines, not leaving anyone behind, in a sense, this is the greatest sentiment of that not leaving him behind. Director Baldwin said these kinds of projects are very near and dear to her heart, as was meeting Mr. Kinsel. She said the home he built with his own hands so long ago was a fine home but it needed more amenities. Thats what we wanted to provide because we know the home is where many of our healings begin, especially for us veterans, she said. Our healing begins in our home, especially if we know our home is safe, somewhere we can seek refuge. Ronald Kinsel, Mr. Kinsels son and primary caregiver, said before the house was renovated, he would take out all of his buckets when they saw a storm coming. We had two waterfalls inside, he said. One in the south and one in the west. Now we dont have to worry any longer. Interim VA Deputy Director Olin Kieyoomia said that over the years many tribal leaders came by to promise Mr. Kinsel their help. All these years I would stop by, and it was really saddening that nobody ever came to help you, he said. Its a real blessing that we can honor you with the simple necessities that every Navajo family wishes they can have running water, electricity, a shower, a running toilet, a safe place, a kitchen. Many didnt know that until now that Mr. Kinsel cooked his food on a tiny camp stove with a propane bottle, Mr. Kieyoomia said. Using the restroom was a task on its own, Mr. Kieyoomia said. But now he doesnt have to worry about that. We really wish we could have done this for all the other Code Talkers that have passed. Unfortunately, we werent around then. But the Veterans Administration is here now, President Nygren said. I push my administration everyday so more veterans can have a home that will protect them the way they protected us, he said. I am just glad we were able to come together, myself, everyone from Sparrow Group, the construction workers, NNVA Director Bobbie Ann Baldwin and Interim Deputy Director Olin Kieyoomia. Alvira Teller, the Veterans Administration senior housing specialist, said that when the Nygren Administration came into office, the focus to serve veterans changed. When we first started here about a year ago, our main goal was to assist all the veterans and getting the homeless veterans into a home, she said. A lot of them were overlooked. She said the staff got together to find out who had been served and who had not. We sat down to make sure the ones overlooked for years were our first priority, she said. I looked through 686 housing files. Thats including the deceased files, closed files, the denied files, surviving source files, renovation files and new construction files. Thats just for Fort Defiance. A top priority of the administration, she said, was Mr. Kinsel. We were able to complete that goal within this past year, she said. With Mr. Kinsel, Bobbi Ann and Olin made sure he was taken care of. Hes very excited and hes happy. Hes ecstatic. Hes more than appreciative for what hes been given. About the Author: "Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at editor@nativenewsonline.net. " Contact: news@nativenewsonline.net As North Carolina awaits potential impact of Tropical Storm Debby, statewide leaders are urging people to be ready. Gov. Roy Cooper will share an update on the storm at 11 a.m. on Wednesday at the Emergency Operations Center in Raleigh. The update and news conference will be livestreamed here. On Tuesday, Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey said he has talked to sheriffs around the state who have already activated dive teams and search and rescue teams just to be on the safe side. But were all hoping that well dodge a bullet and that the forecasters will be wrong on the amount of rain that were looking at, Causey said. Causey said that hope is because we all remember Hurricane Florence, when we had 23 southeastern counties underwater, and we had loss of life, a lot of loss of property and tens of thousands of homeowners who didnt have flood insurance. He urged North Carolina homeowners to get a flood insurance policy for future storms, since it takes a month to go into effect. Tropical Storm Debbys path and progress: NHCs Wednesday, Aug 07 update I think the state of North Carolina is well prepared, and were just hoping for the best, Causey said. On Monday, Cooper declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm. Heavy rain is expected in the state starting Tuesday, The News & Observer previously reported. Causey said in North Carolina, theres time for people to prepare, including keeping documents in a safe place away from flooding and checking smoke alarms, as well as getting supplies like water and batteries ready. Flooding, crops and travel Causey and Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said the rain could affect farms across the state, with some areas coming out of a drought. So sometimes the rain will just be a thunder cloud thats over one particular area and dump 2 or 3 inches of rain in an hour, and other areas get nothing, Causey said. I know farmers that have lost total corn crops from the drought, and then when the rain comes, its too much rain at one time, so that does further damage to other remaining crops. So its been a tough year for farmers. N.C. Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey talks to reporters about storm preparedness after a Council of State meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Troxler said during Tuesdays Council of State meeting that they are preparing to help animal farmers ahead of the storm. For crops, Troxler said not a lot of harvesting has taken place yet. So weve got growing crops that the water is going to affect, and up to 15 inches over three days is predicted in the southeast of North Carolina, he said. Troxler said it will be a big rain event, and as of Tuesday morning, looked liked there are some possible storm-force winds, but theyre not the type of winds that weve experienced in the past. Its going to be wet, and theres going to be flooding, so we stand prepared. After the meeting, Cooper told reporters that he expected the Emergency Operations Center to be activated and that hed share an update Wednesday as the storm keeps moving at its current pace. Some events this week have already been canceled, including a planned campaign rally in Raleigh on Thursday with Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. Their decision to postpone the event was the right one, Cooper said. We were really excited about having them come, but they told me they didnt want to draw emergency and protection personnel away from any kind of weather-related incidents. So I think that was the right move, he said. Asked if people should be worried about traveling, Cooper said he would be concerned about going south, because clearly South Carolina, Georgia and, of course, Florida theyve gotten a lot of rain. Theyve had people killed, in flood situations, and thats what you really worry about, is fast moving flood water. So Id be concerned about going South, Cooper said. EL CAJON, Calif. (KUSI) Following the closure of the last dog racing track in Mexico, the final dogs arrived at Operation Greyhound in El Cajon last week. As the fastest dog on Earth, greyhounds are born and often bred to race. And after the final greyhound race at Tijuanas Agua Caliente was July 14, hundreds of dogs are now headed for retirement. One of the dogs, six-year-old Martha, has completed 418 races over her career. Like many other greyhounds, she was recently rescued and is now ready for her a new life in the United States. Six hikers rescued from Three Sisters Falls trail Those are the last three and its hurrah, hurrah. Its been a long stretch, Bob Palmatier with Operation Greyhound told KUSI Wednesday. Bob and Bruna Palmatier and started the nonprofit 33 years ago, saving the lives of hundreds of racing dogs along the way. On the one hand, I want to cry of happiness that its over, Bruna Palmatier said to KUSI. On the other hand, I say, oh my god, Ill never have greyhounds again to take care of every day. Its just kind of a mixed feeling. Salesman hit by vehicle during test drive in Pacific Beach Getting one of these greyhounds is not easy. The paperwork can take days to be approved, and a home check is conducted to ensure the dog fits well with the new family. Watch Dan Plantes report in the video player above. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. KANSAS CITY, Mo. Neighbors and business owners attended a monthly meeting Monday night to voice their concerns following the deadly shooting in the early morning hours. Just before 2 a.m. Monday, Kansas City police say several people were hurt when a fight escalated to a shooting near Gregory Boulevard and Prospect Avenue. One man, a food truck operator identified as 31-year-old Dymund Shields, was killed. Later on Monday, a monthly community meeting became a space for people to talk, including city council leaders. Live mortal shell from Korean War found in Independence mans home I think obviously having the shooting that occurred is top of mind and top of heart for everybody, said Ryana Parks-Shaw who represents the 5th City Council District of Kansas City. This was maybe a quarter after 12 when I went down there and it was packed, said Charles M. Kennedy, president of the Tri-Blenheim Neighborhood Association. Alfie Carter and Darren Allen own the 6th Lounge, a club for people 30 and older. They close at midnight on Sundays. They say crowds have been an issue for some time. But now its escalated to everyones worst fear. Its actually running our business off. You know my question is if it were somewhere else, maybe the Plaza, Westport, I think something wouldve been done by now, Allen said. Multiple KCMO businesses hit in string of break-ins Hes exactly right, because in Westport, they have several officers on foot walking around, officers on horseback, Carter said. The issue discussed during the meeting, crowds of people, some teenagers, are leaving Swope Park Sunday nights and head to Prospect, gathering on the street. Youve got 12 year olds running up and down the street, Allen said. We were there at 1:30 picking up trash outside and we heard the gunfire and we had to take cover ourselves, Carter said. Police shared with the group during the meeting. Almost 200 shell casings were found at the crime scene. They are looking at cameras in the area but so far no arrest have been made. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Production of upholstered sofas, sectionals and chairs has begun again nearly a year after a North Carolina furniture company closed without warning, putting hundreds of people out of work. Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams furniture production resumed Monday with 38 employees at its Taylorsville plant in Alexander County, owner Surya Inc. spokeswoman Parvati Tiwari told The Charlotte Observer on Tuesday. Taylorsville is about one hour north of Charlotte. We will continue to expand our team as operations grow, Tiwari said. Last Aug. 26, MG+BW workers were met with signs at the 1-million-square-foot Taylorsville plant saying the company was unexpectedly unable to continue business operations. MG+BW had been headquartered there since 1989. NC community in shock, seeking answers after furniture makers abrupt closure In all, 533 employees at MG+BW were laid off by the company, devastating the town of 2,320 residents. While the majority of employees worked in Taylorsville, two other facilities were in Statesville and Hiddenite. But on Tuesday, Surya Inc. announced 50 MG+BW upholstered furniture pieces in more than 200 configurations are available to designers in a pre-launch sale before full production resumes in the fall. Surya, based in Cartersville, Georgia, purchased MG+BW in an undisclosed deal in November. This is only the beginning for MG+BWs long-awaited revival, Surya President Satya Tiwari said in a statement Tuesday. The full relaunch of the MG+BW brand with the production and distribution will resume in the fall at all three North Carolina sites, Surya said Tuesday in a news release. Statesville and Hiddenite facilities will be used for warehousing, Parvati Tiwari said. Many former factory employees will be rehired, Surya Inc. said. The furniture plants reopening and rehiring employees is great news, said Josh Lail, chairman of the county Board of Commissioners. MG+BW has been a cornerstone of our industrial sector for decades, and its revival is a big step toward continued economic growth in Alexander County, Lail said. Mitchell Gold, co-founder of MG+BW, is a company advisor. Furniture industry veteran Darryl Webster was hired this year as chief operating officer. Nearly a year after Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams furniture closed abruptly in North Carolina, furniture production has resumed at the Taylorsville plant. Behind MG+BW closure MG+BW was unable to secure financing to continue operations as the furniture industry has had significant challenges, then company CEO Chris Moye said last year in WARN notices filed with the North Carolina Department of Commerce. MG+BW parent company The Stephens Group and Mitchel Gold separately filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware on Aug. 30 and Sept. 6, respectively. Each cited $10 million to $50 million in assets and $10 million to $50 million in liabilities. Story continues Following lender PNC Banks denial of funding, MG+BW stopped accepting customer deposits and online orders Aug. 25, the same day all Mitchell Golds stores, distribution centers, outlets and factories closed. Hundreds of furniture company workers lost their jobs after the Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams furniture company closed abruptly in Augus 2023. This was a sign posted on the gate at the Taylorsville, plant. Furniture industry struggles MG+BW isnt alone in its struggles as the furniture industry grapples with changing consumer demand. Just last week, Florida-based retailer Badcock Home Furniture & More announced on its social media sites that it is closing all of its 380 stores in eight Southeastern states, including eight stores in the Charlotte area. Last month, Badocks parent company, Texas-based Conns, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Last August, Asheboro-based Klaussner Furniture Industries Inc. said it was ceasing operations with nearly 900 job losses. And in 2022, Ashley Furniture Furniture Industries permanently closed its Statesville facility, resulting in 111 layoffs, when the Wisconsin-based company consolidated operations. Those strolling through the Woodland Heights neighborhood may notice a welcome change in scenery as one home on North Campbell Avenue undergoes a rapid facelift. The transformation of the house, which dates back to the 1900s, is part of Restore SGF's newest venture renovating old houses to make them ready for new owners. The nonprofit, which focuses on neighborhood revitalization and increased home ownership, is launching a new Revolving Loan Fund program that brings together the private sector, developers and the nonprofit to transform dilapidated homes. In early June, Restore SGF acquired its first home as part of the new program on North Cambell Avenue. Executive Director Brendan Griesemer said the work on the house will be a way to pilot the program and work out the kinks of the construction schedule before the Revolving Loan Fund program ramps up. The goal of the program is to buy homes, renovate and spruce them up and then resell them to local homebuyers. With the investment of $250,000 or $500,0000 from several private financial institutions, Restore SGF can buy homes and renovate them before selling them, recouping that money and starting the cycle over again. Currently, the nonprofit is focused on five neighborhoods: Woodland Heights, Fassnight, Grant Beach, Doling Park east of Robberson Avenue and Meador Park east of National Avenue. These were selected by a Neighborhood Selection Committee which conducted driving tours and evaluated every neighborhood based on historic features, median income, housing market activity, crime rate, nuisance property score, Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) credit eligibility, proximity to large public or private investments and other factors. A home near Lafayette Park that is being renovated through the new Restore SGF Revolving Loan Fund. At a Springfield City Council lunch meeting in July, Griesemer noted that the North Campbell home was a rental operated by an owner out of Phoenix, Arizona, that will now be turned over to home ownership. The recently completed housing study showed that only 42% of Springfieldians own their home a rate that city leaders seek to improve. Inside the first home For this property, Restore SGF partnered with local developer Matt Blevins, who is also behind the Historic Boyd Elementary development, to lead the renovation efforts. As the program grows, Griesemer said the plan is to scale up and collaborate with additional developers, creating a "project pipeline" where multiple homes can be in the works at the same time. The two-story home near the new Reed Academy of Fine and Performing Arts is roughly 2,700 square feet and includes four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Prior to work beginning on the house, the interior was covered in dust, with damaged walls and floors that had partially collapsed. The home still featured old windows that use a weight within the frame as a pulley system to open and shut them. Steep steps lead up to an attic that covers the entire footprint of the home. Blevins said the goal is to retain as many of the historic elements of the house, such as the doors, while making the home more appropriate for modern living. He said the plan is to replace windows and the floor and ensure anything that needs fixing is handled to make it move-in ready. "It's got good bones, the structure seems to be intact," he said. "It just needs it needs a little bit of love." Inside of a home near Lafayette Park that is being renovated through the new Restore SGF Revolving Loan Fund. For him, the program is about saving homes under the threat of demolition and showing their potential. "That's really the goal of this. It's not to make a whole bunch of money on it, it's to actually educate people about what can be done," Blevins said. Contractors began working on the house last week and already, the old siding is beginning to be replaced with new material. Blevins remained optimistic that the renovation can be done and the home ready for buyers by the end of September. The attic of a home near Lafayette Park that is being renovated through the new Restore SGF Revolving Loan Fund. Griesemer said the organization is actively searching for more properties, though with how tight the housing market is, it has been a challenge. "We feel that we're just going to have to work in our neighborhoods, work with the neighborhood residents to find the houses ...The ones that we are focused on, obviously, may not be in the best shape, may need some tender loving care," he said. "Some of our neighborhoods have very few houses for sale." Inside of a home near Lafayette Park that is being renovated through the new Restore SGF Revolving Loan Fund. The program is also expected to be used to buy vacant lots to build homes and "missing middle" housing that provides a transition between apartments and single-family houses. As with the hunt for homes, Griesemer said it is no small feat to find vacant lots, especially as the five neighborhoods selected are mostly developed. More: Here's how a new Restore SGF program eased this family's path into first home Status of the new nonprofit This is the third of Restore SGF's programs, which Griesemer said will work hand-in-hand with the Down Payment Assistance program. The Down Payment Assistance program provides $9,000 grants to first-time home buyers in the five neighborhoods as long as they qualify for a bank loan and put in at least $1,500 of their own money. Griesemer said that while the success of the Down Payment Assistance program has drawn down the funds quickly, the intent is to offer it for eligible buyers of the renovated homes. The nonprofit also offers the Restore My Block Challenge Grant program, which tasks neighbors in the five covered neighborhoods with working together to improve home exteriors, for which they can receive a refund on the costs incurred. At the council meeting in early July, Griesemer and Restore SGF Board of Directors President Richard Ollis shared plans and aspirations for future programs that could also include a program similar to Restore My Block that instead focuses on interior projects in the next year. Funding is one of the largest obstacles for Restore SGF to expand its capacity to provide more services. Currently, the nonprofit has relied on the city's American Rescue Plan Act funds and budget allocations and investments from area financial institutions. Restore SGF hopes to find a permanent funding source that could provide $4-$8 million annually and allow it to expand its work to have the greatest impact. Marta Mieze covers local government at the News-Leader. Have feedback, tips or story ideas? Contact her at mmieze@news-leader.com. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Rehabbing old Springfield homes next on Restore SGF's priorities News 8 Exclusive: How LIFE STAR has saved lives for nearly 40 years HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) They are at their best on your worst day. The men and women of LIFE STAR, emergency responders in the sky, have been serving Connecticut for nearly four decades. With three helicopters covering the state, they are always ready to respond. We came in 1983, and at that time, there was no 9-1-1. Dr. Lenworth Jacobs with Hartford Hospital told News 8 investigative reporter Jeff Derderian. $52K in cash thrown out of BMW during police chase on I-395 in Plainfield Jacobs helped launch LifeStar in the mid-80s, a time when emergency help required dialing a seven-digit phone number. Today, LIFE STAR has become synonymous with medical miracles in the cloud. Riding with the LIFE STAR team, we met the pilot, the flight nurse, and the flight paramedic. Over nearly 40 years, they have conducted thousands and thousands of runs, saving countless lives over almost four decades in Connecticut. Weve flown over 40,000 runs since 1985, and it has saved an enormous number of lives, Jacobs said. In a weird and selfish way, if I make sure I get to the helicopter and to the call and back to the hospital safely, everyone else comes along for the ride, pilot Mike Kwas told News 8. Watch the full exclusive story on News 8 at 6 p.m. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. The Nicholas County School District is deeply saddened and troubled regarding a recent racially directed social media post. While this originated outside our organization, let us be clear, racism has no place in our schools or community, and we will continually condemn any form of hate directed to our staff or students. Our dedicated staff works hard every day to provide a loving, safe, and supportive environment for all our students. As school is about to begin, may we be unified as we seek to accomplish this goal. The West African nation of Niger is severing diplomatic relations with Ukraine, government spokesperson Amadou Abdramane announced on Aug. 6, two days after neighboring Mali made a similar announcement. Mali broke diplomatic ties with Ukraine on Aug. 4 over its alleged support of Tuareg-led rebels, after reports that Malian soldiers and Wagner Group mercenaries suffered significant battle losses in recent clashes with anti-government groups. Niger will cut ties with Kyiv "with immediate effect," Abdramane said in a televised statement. In their announcement, Niger's government said it would issue a "referral to the United Nations Security Council with a view to ruling on Ukrainian aggression." Ukraine's Foreign Ministry on Aug. 5 called Mali's decision to cut diplomating ties "hasty" and "regrettable" and said Mali's transitional government has not furnished evidence proving Ukraine's involvement in the incidents between Wagner mercenaries and Tuareg rebels. "Ukraine unconditionally adheres to the norms of international law, the inviolability of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other countries," the ministry said. Heavy fighting broke out in northern Mali in late July, with anti-government fighters reporting that they destroyed "the entire column of the Malian army and Russian mercenaries." Andrii Yusov, Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) spokesperson, alluded to possible cooperation between Ukrainian intelligence services and the Mali rebels during a television broadcast on July 29. Niger and Mali's announcements come as Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba embarks on a diplomatic tour of several African nations. Kuleba arrived in Malawi on Aug. 5 and will travel next to Zambia and Mauritius. President Volodymyr Zelensky said in December 2023 that developing ties with African countries is one of Ukraine's foreign policy priorities for 2024. Read also: ISW: Russia continues to expand influence in Africa Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Nigerian men accused of sexually extorting PA man, charged in his death (WHTM) Two Nigerian men face charges in the death of a Pennsylvania man who they are also accused of sexually extorting, the Department of Justice announced Monday. Imoleayo Aina, 26, and Samuel Olasunkanmi Abiodun, 24, were extradited from Nigeria to the United States where they face charges in the death of the man, the DOJ said. Aina is charged with cyberstalking, interstate threat to injure reputation, and receiving proceeds of extortion. Both Aina and Abiodun are charged with wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy, the DOJ says. Lancaster man allegedly led high speed chase after selling crack cocaine to undercover officer The duo was taken into custody by the FBI Wednesday and appeared in front of U.S. Magistrate Elizabeth T. Hey Friday. The FBI and Abington Police Department investigated the case. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Severe Weather Alerts Aina faces up to life in prison and Abiodun faces up to 40 years imprisonment if convicted. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. The New Jersey Lottery offers multiple draw games for people looking to strike it rich. Heres a look at Monday, Aug. 5, 2024 winning numbers for each game: Pick-3 Midday: 7 - 7 - 2; Fireball: 5 Evening: 5 - 7 - 4; Fireball: 4 Check Pick-3 payouts and previous drawings here. Pick-4 Midday: 0 - 9 - 0 - 9; Fireball: 5 Evening: 0 - 5 - 2 - 9; Fireball: 4 Check Pick-4 payouts and previous drawings here. Jersey Cash 5 29 - 20 - 14 - 42 - 07 (Bullseye); Xtra: 3 More: Jersey Cash 5 now $2; what is the NJ Lottery Bullseye Check Jersey Cash 5 payouts and drawings here. Cash4Life 08 - 25 - 33 - 38 - 46; Cash Ball: 02 Check previous Cash4Life drawings here. Pick-6 23 - 12 - 13 - 46 - 26 - 45 26 - 41 - 43 - 40 - 11 - 17 Check previous Pick-6 drawings here. Winner: New Jersey grandmother of 10 planning Disney trip after winning $1 million in Powerball Quick Draw Drawing are held every four minutes. Check winning numbers here. Cash Pop Drawing are held every four minutes. Check winning numbers here. Beware: No, a lottery jackpot winner isn't giving you money. How to spot a scammer Gambling too much? You can get help by calling 1800-GAMBLER or clicking on www.800gambler.org This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: NJ Lottery Pick-3, Pick-4, winning numbers for Monday, Aug. 5 Elon Musk, co-founder of Tesla and SpaceX and owner of X Holdings Corp., speaks at the Milken Institutes Global Conference at the Beverly Hilton Hotel,on May 6, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Apu Gomes / Getty Images) New Mexicos Maggie Toulouse Oliver and four fellow secretaries of state wrote to Elon Musk, alleging Xs artificial intelligence chatbot, Grok, shared election misinformation to millions of users last month. They asked the billionaire, Trump-backing owner of X to make changes to ensure voters receive accurate information this election cycle. In a letter dated Monday, Toulouse Oliver along with secretaries of state Al Schmidt of Pennsylvania, Jocelyn Benson of Michigan, Steve Hobbs of Washington and Steve Simon of Minnesota wrote that within hours of President Joe Bidens announcement last month that he would not seek reelection, Grok generated false headlines that Vice President Kamala Harris was ineligible to appear on the presidential ballot in multiple states. The misinformation stated the deadlines in some states to edit the ballots had passed, and officials were unable to change the candidates who are listed on the ballot. The secretaries quoted a post from Grok: The ballot deadline has passed for several states for the 2024 election. Some of these states include: 1. Alabama 2. Indiana 3. Michigan 4. Minnesota 5. New Mexico 6. Ohio 7. Pennsylvania 8. Texas 9. Washington. This is false, the letter states. In all nine states the opposite is true: The ballots are not closed, and upcoming ballot deadlines would allow for changes to candidates listed on the ballot for the offices of President and Vice President of the United States. The secretaries of state say the election misinformation created by Grok reached millions of people, even though Grok is only available to X Premium and Premium+ subscribers. The AI chatbot continued to repeat the misinformation for over a week until it was corrected on July 31, the letter states. In this presidential election year, it is critically important that voters get accurate information on how to exercise their right to vote, Simon said in a statement Monday. Voters should reach out to their state or local election officials to find out how, when and where they can vote. The secretaries urged Musk to make changes to Grok that would direct people to CanIVote.org if they ask about U.S. elections; ChatGPT another AI tool is directing voters there. The letter, first reported by the Washington Post, states that AI chatbots are expected to create falsehoods. Musk last year launched Grok as an anti-woke chatbot, and he said he wanted his AI tool to answer spicy questions that are rejected by most other AI systems, the Post reported. In the letter, the secretaries quoted a past post from Musk about the need for accurate information. On November 6, 2022, you posted that the platform needs to become by far the most accurate source of information about the world. Thats our mission. We hope that you live up to this mission, the letter states. X did not immediately respond to the Reformers request for comment. Wall Street analysts predict artificial intelligence (AI) will create trillions of dollars in economic value over the next decade. It has already started, with Nvidia's market capitalization surging by a whopping $2.1 trillion since the start of 2023 as developers race to buy the company's AI data center chips. But previous technological revolutions like the internet, cloud computing, and enterprise software have taught us that picking the long-term winners and losers in the AI race won't be easy. Nvidia faces growing competition already, and in the software space, some of the best AI models are coming from privately held start-ups. Taking a broad approach to AI investing might be the best solution for most investors. Buying an exchange-traded fund (ETF) is a simple way to do that, and the iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF (NYSEMKT: IGM) holds almost every popular AI stock right now. Image source: Getty Images. The iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF just completed a stock split The iShares ETF delivered a compound annual return of 20.2% over the last 10 years, handily beating the 13.2% average annual gain in the S&P 500 index over the same period. The ETF was trading as high as $512 per share in March, which made it somewhat expensive for investors with small portfolios. To make it more accessible, iShares conducted a 6-for-1 stock split that increased the number of shares in circulation sixfold, and reduced the price per share by a proportional amount. Now, investors can buy one share of the ETF for just $88.93 (as of this writing). If AI lives up to Wall Street's expectations, this ETF could maintain its recent momentum for the foreseeable future. Here's how it could turn an investment of $400 per month into $1 million over the long run. Every leading AI stock in one ETF The iShares ETF is designed to give investors diversified exposure to the technology sector, including both hardware and software companies. It holds 281 different stocks, but it's heavily weighted toward its top 10, which account for 52.3% of the total value of its portfolio. Several of the most popular AI stocks have rocketed into that top 10 over the last 18 months thanks to their incredible growth: Stock iShares ETF Portfolio Weighting 1. Apple 8.94% 2. Microsoft 8.48% 3. Meta Platforms 8.11% 4. Nvidia 7.56% 5. Alphabet Class A 4.62% 6. Broadcom 4.16% 7. Alphabet Class C 3.88% 8. Netflix 2.34% 9. Salesforce 2.18% 10. Adobe 2.08% Data source: iShares. Portfolio weightings are accurate as of July 29, 2024, and are subject to change. Story continues Apple and Microsoft are the world's two largest companies, with a combined market capitalization of $6.5 trillion. They have both partnered with ChatGPT developer OpenAI to launch AI software products. Microsoft used OpenAI's models to create its Copilot virtual assistant, and Apple used them to create Apple Intelligence, which will launch later this year. With 2.2 billion active devices worldwide, Apple could soon become the largest distributor of AI to consumers. Without Nvidia, OpenAI's models never would have come so far. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang delivered the first AI supercomputer to the start-up in 2016, and the companies still have a very close working partnership today. Nvidia is experiencing explosive demand for its chips, which has triggered triple-digit percentage growth in its data center revenue for the last four quarters. The iShares ETF is attractive because it also owns stocks like Netflix, Salesforce, and Adobe. All three have incredibly successful businesses already, but they are using AI to enhance them with new features. However, if AI fails to live up to the hype, those stocks probably won't take as much of a hit as Nvidia, for example. Therefore, this ETF can insulate investors from potential downside relative to other ETFs focused exclusively on AI stocks. Outside of its top 10, the iShares ETF holds a number of other popular technology stocks, including Advanced Micro Devices, Oracle, Micron Technology, and Palo Alto Networks. Turning $400 per month into $1 million The iShares ETF has delivered a compound annual return of 10.9% since its inception in 2001. As I touched on earlier, that return was significantly higher over the last decade, at 20.2% per year on average. The reason is the rapid adoption of technologies like cloud computing, enterprise software, smartphones, and AI. The below table shows the potential future returns from investing $400 per month into the iShares ETF over 10, 20, and 30 years: Monthly Investment Compound Annual Return Balance After 10 Years Balance After 20 Years Balance After 30 Years $400 10.9% $87,481 $345,214 $1,108,019 $400 15.5% (midpoint) $115,360 $651,646 $3,153,386 $400 20.2% $155,344 $1,303,893 $9,817,674 Calculations by author. The law of large numbers suggests tech giants like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Apple probably can't grow by 20% (or more) per year over the next 20 or 30 years. Since they have dominant weightings in the iShares ETF, the fund will struggle to maintain its 20.2% average annual return from the past decade. The S&P 500, for example, has averaged a yearly gain of just 10.5% since its inception in 1957. Nevertheless, an investment of $400 per month could turn into more than $1 million over a 30-year period even if the iShares ETF reverts back to an average annual return of just 10.9%. There is the potential for higher long-term gains if AI lives up to expectations. Jensen Huang predicts $1 trillion will be spent upgrading and expanding data centers over the next five years alone, in order to meet demand from AI developers. Plus, consulting firm PwC believes AI will add $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. Those are just two of many multitrillion-dollar forecasts from prominent experts and analysts. On the other hand, if AI fails to live up to the hype, stocks like Nvidia could shed a significant amount of value, which will trigger a period of underperformance for the iShares ETF. Investors need to keep that risk in mind, so it's best to buy the ETF as part of a balanced portfolio. Should you invest $1,000 in iShares Trust - iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF right now? 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Nvidia, Microsoft, and Apple Could Help This Stock-Split ETF Turn $400 per Month Into $1 Million was originally published by The Motley Fool No company is too big to play by the rules: North Carolina AG Josh Stein speaks on Google antitrust decision RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein has released a statement after prevailing in a bipartisan lawsuit against Google related to its search engine. According to the state attorney generals office, a federal court found that Google violated antitrust law by illegally maintaining a monopoly over general search engine services and general search text ads. Google is an illegal monopoly, judge rules. What comes next for the search engine? No company is too big to play by the rules, Stein said in his statement. Today is a win for consumers and for healthy competition. I am pleased that we held Google accountable and can now focus on repairing the market and better protecting North Carolina consumers. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com. BOSTON, Mass. (SHNS)Legislative leaders have few specifics ironed out for a potential return to formal business after they failed to find agreement last week on a major jobs bill and several other popular proposals. With Beacon Hill now fully ensconced in summer vacation mode, House Speaker Ron Mariano and Senate President Karen Spilka signaled late Friday they are open to calling lawmakers back to the building for a special session to take up a stalled economic development bill, whose billions of dollars in bond authorizations cannot pass without a roll call vote. Salary transparency law aims to eliminate unequal pay in Massachusetts Democrats would need to venture into unusual territory to do that, and for now, theyre leaving the details for a later date. Aides for both Mariano and Spilka declined Monday to offer a clear timeline for a possible late-term formal session, saying instead that it depend on when House-Senate negotiators who could not iron out their differences last week under the pressure of a July 31 deadline strike a deal. The Senate is ready to convene a formal session to pass a version of this bill as soon as the conferees reach an agreement, Spilka said in a statement Monday. Mariano similarly said hes prepared to bring members back for a special session when such an agreement is reached, in the process hinting at what he views as a dealbreaker. The House remains focused, he said, on an economic development bill that fully invests in the life sciences sector. Thats likely a reference to one of the chief disputes that sank negotiations in the first place. The Senate sought a shorter-term renewal of state funding for the life sciences industry than both the House and Gov. Maura Healey sought. Legislative leaders left a host of bills unfinished beyond economic development, including eight others that won approval in both branches but never emerged from private conference committee negotiations. They face growing pressure from Healey to check more items off the list. A Healey spokesperson announced Monday that the governor met with Mariano to discuss completing important legislation that was not resolved at the close of the formal session. The Speaker conveyed his continued commitment to working with the Governor to deliver on the important economic development bill needed to drive growth and keep Massachusetts competitive, Healey spokesperson Jillian Fennimore said. She looks forward to discussing next steps with the Senate President as well. Mariano and Spilka have both signaled they think the rest of the proposals can sail to Healeys desk during informal sessions, though some of the bills did not win unanimous support, which could complicate that path. Of the remaining matters in conference committees, the only items that require a roll call vote are the borrowing authorizations contained in the economic development bill, Spilka said Monday. Massachusetts lawmakers serve two-year terms, but under a joint House-Senate rule codified in 1995, they are supposed to meet only in informal sessions, where only minor business occurs, after the third Wednesday in November in the first year and after July 31 in the second year. That provision was designed to give legislators time to focus on campaign season, and also to prevent lame-duck lawmakers from ramming through unpopular or self-enriching policies after Election Day has already passed. It exists only in legislative rules, which are regularly suspended when lawmakers agree its advantageous to do so, and not in state law or the Constitution. During the informal sessions that now loom for the remainder of the 2023-2024 term, a single objection can stall a bills progress and lawmakers cannot take roll call votes, which are needed for the bond authorizations that anchor the economic development bill. Tackling major business after the deadline is a rare, but not completely unprecedented, step. Lawmakers did it just last year, when they muscled through a mid-year spending bill with money for the strained emergency shelter system in early December. After several days of parliamentary delays led by House Republicans, enough Democrats showed up to form a quorum and approve the bill. The Senate at the time approved a GOP-backed order that would have temporarily suspended the no-holiday-season-formal rule for consideration of the spending bill alone, but the House never took up the idea. In a few other instances, lawmakers moved right before ending their formal sessions to give themselves an opening down the road. Four years ago, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the House and Senate agreed before July ended to suspend the rule altogether and keep their major business going right up until the term ended in January. The House and Senate took aim at a smaller-scale approach in 2005. On the Nov. 15 deadline to wrap up formal business for the year, both branches voted to allow a special formal session during the six-week holiday stretch if conference committees submitted accords on unresolved bills. But negotiators never reached agreement in that span, and lawmakers wound up waiting for formal sessions to resume normally in 2006. In 2001, lawmakers scheduled a special session for Dec. 5 after the mid-November end of formal sessions for the year to take up budget veto overrides. There have also been disagreements over whether to return to formals. In 1999, senators voted to suspend the rule so they could return after mid-November to consider budget veto overrides, but the House did not go along. This time around, top Democrats would likely need to get buy-in from every single member to suspend the rule on a voice vote during informal sessions, or call in enough lawmakers to constitute a quorum. One top Republican, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, expressed concern about the road ahead. Tarr said in a statement to the News Service that although he understands the desire to overcome the major failure on the economic development bond bill, there is nothing yet to indicate that the causes of its failure have been remediated. A bill of this significance should never have been placed in the jeopardy of being finalized and debated in the waning hours of the formal legislative session, Tarr said. Setting a new date for that to happen again wont solve the problem. Before we continue returning to a formal session to consider such a bill, we need to be on a procedural path that is transparent, inclusive, and collaborative in the development of that bill, he added. And the product of that process should be made available to all of the members of the Legislature and the public with enough time to read it, digest it, and communicate about it well in advance of any session where it could be considered. Another potential wrinkle in the timing of a special session this term is work underway to renovate the House Chamber. Crews are expected to continue work to upgrade the chambers audio system, roll call machine and voting boards into October, leaving the House to meet in the meantime in a first-floor hearing room that does not have the same infrastructure. Asked if the chamber outlook would impact the timing of a special session, a Mariano aide said details about a possible formal session would be determined after negotiators find agreement on the economic development bill. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Local police are pushing for parents to talk with their kids about gun safety in the wake of a teenager who was found delinquent in the shooting and killing of his friend last November. Read next: Raids underway at several massage parlors in the Valley Captain Jason Simon of the Youngstown Police Department says many of these incidents can be prevented by education and a few best practices when it comes to the safety of owning and storing a gun. When accidents happen, especially in the most tragic case of a death, despite the fact that there might be a successful prosecution in court, no one wins in these cases, said Simon. A teenager was found delinquent of reckless homicide in juvenile court on August 2 for the November 2023 shooting death of 14-year-old Logan Taylor. Taylor died after being shot in the defendants home. A judge stated she did not believe the defendant had intent to kill Taylor, but his actions were reckless. In the wake of that tragedy, Youngstown Police are calling on parents to have a serious conversation with their kids surrounding gun safety. One thing thats an important component of this is to talk to your kids about firearm safety, said Simon. We all understand and can appreciate the fact that the more something is kept mysterious the more of a draw it can be for a child. Simon says the topic can be a sensitive one but it can save a lot of heartbreak in the long run. For those that do survive were, seeing that 50% of these individuals are coming out with some kind of permanent disability from the hospital. So not only are they traumatized initially from the incident. Theres going to be lifelong re-victimization of those individuals, said Simon. The Youngstown Police Department regularly holds community educational sessions centered on gun safety and even offers gun locks and training to residents seeking to secure their firearms. I think the most eye-opening thing they see from these sessions is how prevalent of an issue this is and the trauma that it causes to children that may survive these or other family members in the home, said Simon. He says it all boils down to four basic rules: treat every gun like its loaded, keep your finger off the trigger until youre ready to fire, know your background, and never point a gun at something you arent willing to shoot. Its a simple message to pass along of stop, said Simon. Dont touch it. Run away. Tell an adult. Anyone in the public is encouraged to reach out if theyre interested in attending a community educational session. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Muhammad Yunus called on the international community for support as student protests swept the nation - AFP/GETTY IMAGES A Nobel Prize winner known as the banker of the poor has emerged as a front-runner to lead Bangladesh after weeks of violent unrest forced the prime minister to resign. Mohammed Shahabuddin, Bangladeshs president, dissolved the parliament on Tuesday, clearing the way for new elections after Sheikh Hasina resigned her 15-year tenure and fled the country. Ms Hasina reportedly had just 45 minutes to prepare before she fled by helicopter to India as protesters defied military curfew orders to march on the capital. Thousands of demonstrators stormed her official residence and other buildings associated with her party and family, looting furniture, paintings, flower pots and chickens. Sheikh Hasina fled before protesters stormed her home - RAJESH KUMAR SINGH/AP Muhammad Yunus, the 74-year-old Nobel Prize winner who is currently in Paris for the Olympics, has since been nominated by a key student leader to lead the interim government. Mr Yunus is an economist credited with pioneering micro-lending to help lift millions in Bangladesh out of poverty by allowing people to start their own businesses. Nahid Islam, the principal leader of Students Against Discrimination, said in a video message: We have decided that the interim government would be formed in which internationally renowned Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, who has wide acceptability, would be the chief adviser. Gen Waker-uz-Zaman, the military chief, said on Monday he was temporarily taking control of the country as soldiers tried to stem unrest. The military wields significant political influence in Bangladesh, which has faced more than 20 coups or coup attempts since independence in 1971. But Mr Islam, 26, made it clear that the students would not accept any government led by the army. Any government other than the one we recommended would not be accepted, he said. He said the protesters would propose more names for the cabinet, and suggested that it would be difficult for those in power to ignore their wishes. Bangladesh witnessed weeks of mass protests that left around 300 people dead, most of whom were students from colleges and universities. The protests began on July 1 over job quotas and soon escalated into a revolt against the rule of Ms Hasina who is now likely to head to the UK. Mr Shahabuddin said in a televised address on Monday that an interim government would be formed soon after dissolving the parliament. The president also ordered the release of Begum Khaleda Zia, the former prime minister, from her house detention. Mr Yunus has faced scrutiny from Ms Hasinas government since she returned to power in 2009. A longtime opponent of the ousted leader, Mr Yunus was accused of corruption and tried on charges that he said were politically motivated. In January he was sentenced to six months in jail by a court for violating the labour laws but was granted bail in March. Midway through the protests, Mr Yunus had urged the international community to help end the violence in Bangladesh. I urgently call on world leaders and the United Nations to do everything within their powers to end the violence against those who are exercising their rights to protest, he said. There must be investigations into the killings that have taken place already. Sanjida Islam Tuli, a human rights activist and co-ordinator of Mayer Dak, a missing people organisation, told The Telegraph: He [Yunus] is neutral. Its new Bangladesh and we expect him to align with the aspirations of youth and students of Bangladesh and put an end to the enforced disappearances and torture. Thousands of students have been protesting for weeks and 109 people have died - ANADOLU Ala Uddin, a professor of anthropology at University of Chittagong, said: The name of the student movement was Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, so there should be no discrimination at any level, Ala Uddin said. We want the spirit of liberation war to be fully materialised in society; where democracy, equality, and religious freedom will be guaranteed. Where there will be no discrimination in society; and there will be no religious or ethnic conflicts, he added. At least 109 people have died in the violence, including 14 police officers, and hundreds of others injured, according to media reports, which could not be independently confirmed. In the southwestern district of Satkhira, 596 prisoners and detainees escaped from a jail after an attack on the facility Monday evening, the United News of Bangladesh agency reported, as police stations and security officials were attacked across the country. The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Tuesday urged people to exercise restraint in what it said was a transitional moment on our democratic path. Tarique Rahman, the partys acting chairman, wrote on X, formerly Twitter: It would defeat the spirit of the revolution that toppled the illegitimate and autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina if people decide to take the law into their own hands without due process. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Seth O'Neill, executive director of CAWS North Dakota, delivers remarks during a meeting of the Interim Human Services Committee on July 11, 2024. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor) North Dakota domestic and sexual violence advocates are bracing for a sharp decrease in federal funding over the next two years at a time when theyre seeing an increase in violence. Lawmakers in the upcoming legislative session are expected to see budget requests for additional state funding to compensate for the loss of federal dollars, plus a separate request to bolster nonprofit service providers. We have seen a very significant increase in violence across the state of North Dakota, Liz Schneider, executive director of the McLean Family Resource Center in Washburn, told lawmakers last month. Especially, coming out of COVID, were seeing higher levels of lethality, and the level of violence is almost unfathomable. Organizations that serve domestic violence and sexual assault victims receive about half of their funding from federal and local sources, said Coiya Tompkins Inman, president of the Community Violence Intervention Center in Grand Forks, during a recent meeting of the Legislatures Interim Human Services Committee. About 16% of the funding has come from state dollars, with private donations making up 33%, she said. Much of the federal funding comes through the crime victim fund established by the Victims of Crime Act, which has seen its balance plummet nationally. North Dakota expects to award $3.4 million through federal Victims of Crime Act funding this fiscal year and $2.4 million next year, said Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation director of communications Kayli Richards. That is down from average annual funding of $5.2 million over the past few years, she said. Those dollars helped serve more than 17,000 victims of crime last year, she said. The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation plans to ask for additional state dollars for the 2025-27 budget to make up for the projected loss, Richards said. The details of the budget request are still being developed. Meanwhile, the Department of Health and Human Services will submit its own request to support programs that aid domestic violence sexual assault victims around the state. The agency said it has not finalized the budget request. The programs are advocating for $19 million in state funding for 2025-27, more than double what they received in 2023-25, according to a presentation to lawmakers. Seth ONeill, executive director for CAWS North Dakota, said the domestic and sexual violence coalition encompasses 19 different organizations across the state. Oftentimes in these smaller communities, they serve as the main resource that people go to when they need help because they know these programs will serve them, ONeill told lawmakers. Crimes against persons in North Dakota jumped 11.5% in 2021, stayed flat in 2022 and increased about 3% in 2023, according to the most recent crime index report from the North Dakota Attorney Generals Office. Last year, in about 30% of those cases, the victims relationship to the offender was boyfriend or girlfriend, spouse or former spouse or intimate partner, the report shows. The categories of rape, aggravated assault, simple assault, intimidation and stalking all saw increases last year. The figures do not include statistics from tribal law enforcement and do not include cases that were not reported to law enforcement. ONeill said hes hearing from the service providers about an increase in the level of violence that may not be reflected in the statistics. Even if the crime levels arent going up a lot, theyre more lethal and more serious, ONeill said in an interview. The danger levels are increasing dramatically. Last year, the CAWS North Dakota organizations served more than 7,400 survivors of domestic or sexual assault. In the sexual assault cases, about half of the crimes were reported to law enforcement, according to CAWS. The organizations did see an increase in state funding from the Legislature for the 2023-25 biennium. The funding through the Department of Health and Human Services increased to about $7.5 million compared to about $3 million in 2021-23. The funding that came through last session was historic for our work, Tompkins Inman said. The increase allowed programs to increase wages to recruit and retain staff and invest more resources into prevention. But even with the additional resources, there were needs that were not met. On Sept. 6, 2023, the organizations participated in a survey through the National Network to End Domestic Violence. During a 24-hour period, victims in North Dakota made 70 requests for service that were not met because the programs lacked sufficient resources. The programs are advocating for additional state funding for assisting domestic violence victims, bolstering sexual violence prevention and providing safe havens for family exchanges and visitation. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST A Bismarck police cruiser drives on Main Avenue on Aug. 5, 2024. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor) A roadside drug testing device is being added to law enforcements repertoire across the state as patrol units continue to clamp down on drug-impaired driving. The SoToxa oral fluid mobile test system, similar to a Breathalyzer, will be used by up to 40 North Dakota law enforcement agencies starting this fall. The device has been used as part of a pilot program in the state to test how well it detects drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine and opioids. North Dakota Highway Patrol Trooper Tarek Chase is the coordinator for the states drug recognition experts and heads the program for standardized field sobriety testing. He said the device would be beneficial. They still have to be able to utilize their appropriate field sobriety tests, Chase told the North Dakota Monitor. When their (sobriety) tests are showing that this person is not safe to operate a motor vehicle, but they cant smell the odor of alcohol, or they cant pinpoint it to alcohol being the cause, if they employ this tool, this device, it will help to confirm that for the officer. The test would be administered only after impaired driving was suspected and not used as a first indicator, Chase said. This would kinda be like a Breathalyzer, but it would be utilized for instances where the officer suspected drugs and not alcohol, or a combination, he said. The pilot program involved voluntary samples from 50 probable impaired driving suspects during traffic stops between January 2022 to July 2023. Fred Delfino, SoToxa product manager specializing in law enforcement for Abbott Toxicology, said the testing system was more than 90% accurate during the North Dakota pilot program. We do suggest any screening device gets confirmed in a laboratory and thats how that project worked there in North Dakota, Delfino said. The vendor began selling the devices to law enforcement agencies in 2019, Delfino said. The device screens for drug use occurring within several hours, which is shorter than typical urine tests that can detect drug use occurring up to weeks earlier. What SoToxa is doing is giving (law enforcement) a tool to determine if that driver has recently used drugs, he said. Not to say theyre impaired. Its just one of the steps in the process that they would go through. The device identified at least one drug in about 83% of the test cases, of which more than half identified marijuana as being present, according to a North Dakota Highway Patrol news release. Chase said the state purchased about 40 SoToxa devices. Each device cost $4,500, according to the North Dakota Department of Transportation. The devices could be implemented in various departments across the state by the end of the year, Chase said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The impending severe weather from Tropical Storm Debby has already affected several North Jersey municipalities that planned to host National Night Out events on Tuesday. Town officials have begun posting social media updates regarding their respective festivities after the forecast called for heavy rain and possible flooding in the region Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. Some moved the National Night Out up or to a later date, while others canceled the event. Morris Township is among the towns to cancel its National Night Out for 2024 with no makeup date. "We share your disappointment as we were looking forward to a beautiful night of fun and community," the township posted on Facebook Tuesday morning. "We hope to see you next year for an even better National Night Out." The Little Falls Fire Department gave a demonstration on how to extinguish a car fire at the Aug. 1, 2023 National Night Out event. Other areas throughout the region announced their events were "postponed," though not all have announced a new date or even if there will be one. Police departments in Denville and Hopatcong posted that there is no set rain date at this time, with Hopatcong adding, "we will keep you posted if and when that changes." Montclair's National Night Out also will not take place Tuesday, and there is no rain date at this time, Lt. Tyrone Williams Jr. said. Florham Park, Hawthorne and Newton are among the municipalities that are planning to reschedule their events. However, no makeup dates were announced as of early Tuesday afternoon. New Milford postponed its National Night Out until Aug. 20, while West Milford's was moved to Oct. 1. Boonton will still hold its event on Tuesday, but moved it an hour earlier to 4 p.m. The festivities will take place rain or shine at the RVA Johanson Memorial Fields on Powerville Road, the township police department said on Facebook. Teaneck is also holding its National Night Out rain or shine from 5-8 p.m. Tuesday at Votee Park, the township announced. If there is inclement weather, the event will be moved inside to the Rodda Center adjacent to the park. What is National Night Out? National Night Out is a community policing event celebrated annually on the first Tuesday in August. Neighborhoods host parties, festivals, parades and other events in partnership with law enforcement to raise awareness about various police programs and anti-crime efforts. "National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community," reads an online statement from the National Association of Town Watch, which established the inaugural event in 1984. "Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances." Today, 38 million residents in 17,000 communities celebrate National Night Out across the country, according to the organization's website. More than 200 New Jersey towns participate each year. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Expected severe weather cancels NJ National Night Out events South Koreas arms producers, recently dubbed members of the K-defense industry, are rising stars on the international stage, much like K-pop and K-drama. Because of the Russia-Ukraine war, many European countries have increased their defense budgets and become major customers of the K-defense industry. On the other side of the coin or the border North Koreas defense industry also has a new major customer: Russia. A recent visit to Pyongyang by Russian leader Vladimir Putin attracted the worlds attention. Russia needs North Korean ammunition, while North Korea needs to send its labor force to Russia to gather information about defense technologies like intercontinental ballistic missiles, submarine-launched ballistic missiles and satellites. In North Korea, about 500,000 workers and 300 defense industry factories exist in the Second Economy Commission, which oversees nearly all aspects of materiel production and sales. Most factories are located in the North and South Pyongan provinces, the North and South Hamgyong provinces, the Chagang province and the Kangwon province. The defense sector makes up about 30% to 60% of North Koreas total economy, or approximately $10 billion. About $700 million goes to nuclear development, and about $600 million goes to missile development. The Top 100 is here: Find out how defense companies performed in FY23 Recently, North Korean media openly showed Kim Jong Uns visit to defense industry factories. Usually, the nations media does not report on defense industry facilities as such, describing them as ordinary factories. But the transparency this time represents how important Kim considers the sector. Since 2022, Rodong Sinmun has run at least eight articles discussing 18 visits to defense industry factories. The openness and timing is significant, given Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine that year. During this period, Kim has emphasized a desire to prepare for war and modernize the domestic industrys weapons production processes. This year, North Korea began reorganizing entities under the Second Economic Commission in order to achieve Kims directives. He appointed a new chairman of the Second Economic Commission, and has dropped mentions of tests for the countrys 240mm multiple rocket launcher as well as construction efforts to support the weapons production. Kims recent interactions with Putin and his emphasis on North Koreas defense industry amid the war has a clear strategic purpose. For one, these moves are meant to serve as a response to security cooperation between the United States, South Korea and Japan. Secondly, North Korea has benefited from providing arms to Russia during the war. Decades ago, during the Korean War, the Soviet Union supported the creation of the Korean Peoples Army, and the Soviet Army was a role model for the North. Now, North Korea is able to support Russia by sending ammunition and other conventional weapons. The partnership provides opportunities for North Koreas labor force to travel to Russia to learn about advanced defense technologies. North Korea considers its version of the K-defense industry to be an engine for economic development. From the Norths point of view, Russia is just the beginning, as other potential customers could follow suit. Indeed, if North Korea accepts an invitation from Russia to join a Russia-China combined military exercise, this would be a great turning point for the government and a game changer to Northeast Asias security architecture. The worst-case scenario would be the Norths export of weapons of mass destruction, including, but not limited to, nuclear war heads. Kims ambition has grown beyond selling access to the Wonsan spa resort. Now, North Korea is seeking its own version of the K-defense industry. Youngjun Kim is a professor at the Korea National Defense University and a nonresident fellow at the National Bureau of Asian Research think tank. UPDATE: Officers found the man who went missing on Aug. 2. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) North Las Vegas police are searching for a missing and endangered man who was last seen Friday. The man was last seen on Friday, Aug. 2 by two co-workers while leaving work in the area of Nellis Air Force Base. The man is described as an Asian man, 58, 155 pounds with brown eyes and black hair. It is unknown what he was last seen wearing however, he was last seen driving a white 2017 Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck with Florida license plate. Police believe the man may be at risk of harming himself. Anyone with information on the mans whereabouts is asked to contact the North Las Vegas Police Department immediately at 702-633-9111. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) North Myrtle Beach business owners are preparing for flooding caused by Tropical Storm Debby. Weldon Boyd, the owner of Buoys on the Boulevard on Main Street, said they rely on Quick Dam, a water-activated flood barrier, to prevent more floodwater from entering the restaurant. However, even with Quick Dam, Boyd said the floodwater on Main Street comes down to Buoys front porch and makes its way inside the restaurant. It sucks, because every time one of these things hits, its a lost day of sales, plus a couple thousand dollars in damage to get everything dried out because we flood every time, Boyd said. Boyd also said drainage has caused many problems after past storms. He said hes working with a city councilmember to advocate for better drainage systems in North Myrtle Beach. We have a problem, he said. They spend a lot of money on drainage that doesnt work. They justify it all they want, but it doesnt work. It costs us thousands of dollars. Theres been talks of suing the city in the past because of their lack of action. With Debbys predicted 12 to 16 inches of rain, Boyd said Buoys could have a foot of floodwater inside the restaurant. This often creates mildew. Boyd said the Buoys team has a mildew prevention plan that proved successful in the past. So, we usually spend about half a day bleaching, scrubbing, and getting everything out of there, he said. Then, we run the fans. Once the fans are good, we put a little moisture meter on there. And once we feel like were in a good range, well open back up. Boyd said the Buoys team will not know their hours until after the storm. But he hopes the restaurant will be closed for only one day. He said even one day hurts their business, but the safety of the team and their customers is their top priority. But you still have bills, you still have rent, you still have electricity running through the building, Boyd said. You still have taxes due and stuff like that. So, you want to get ahead of it, and you want to stay open. But at the same time, Buoys has a very founded rule that we kind of put the team first, always. Boyd encouraged residents and visitors to support their local business after the storm and before the summer season is over. * * * Skylar Musick is a multimedia journalist at News13. Skylar is originally from Long Island, New York. She joined the News13 team in June 2024 after graduating from Villanova University in May 2024. Follow Skylar on X, formerly Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, and read more of her work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. North Texas tax preparer gets more than 6 years for $2.6 million in tax fraud A 51-year-old North Texas man has been sentenced to more than six years in prison for tax fraud worth $2.6 million, officials said. Anthony Floyd of Kennedale pleaded guilty in February to 10 counts of aiding in the preparation and presentation of false tax returns. On July 29 he was sentenced to 77 months in federal prison and ordered to pay $1.9 million in restitution, according to a U.S. Department of Justice news release. Floyd filed around 400 tax returns containing false information to increase the amount of government refund to the taxpayer, according to court records. Most or all of the refunds went into his own account, the release states. Floyd rarely met with his clients in person, according to the release. He obtained their personal tax information over the phone or by text and submitted the returns without reviewing them with the taxpayer. He added false information, like nonexistent charitable donations, college attendance that didnt happen and fictitious relatives to the forms, the release states. Floyds scheme cost the U.S. government more than $2.6 million. More top stories from our newsroom: Man sentenced in retrial of killing at AT&T Stadium Reading scores show FWISD years behind national average County plans to pay guards' attorneys in jail death suit [Get our breaking news alerts.] Christopher Altemus Jr., special agent in charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation Dallas Field Office, said taxpayers are responsible to make sure their returns are accurate, even if prepared by a professional. Mr. Floyd took advantage of his neighbors by preparing fraudulent tax returns and trying to steal approximately $2 million from the U.S. government, Altemus said in the release. His sentence of 77 months in prison holds him accountable for his crimes. Floyd recruited his victims outside big box stores or through other clients, according to the release. ST. MARYS (KSNT) A northeast Kansas school district is several thousand dollars richer this week after it got a surprise visit from the Kansas State Treasurer. Staff at USD 321 Kaw Valley Unified School District has an extra $41,000 in its pockets following its discovery by staff with the Kansas State Treasurers Office. The money comes from unclaimed properties, which are managed by the treasurer, which was presented as a check to USD 321s Superintendent Kerry Lacock on Monday, Aug. 5. This is a great reminder for all of us to look for entities that have unclaimed property, Steven Johnson, Kansas state treasurer said. Our website is if you go to that site, click on search unclaimed property and it will bring your to the site. Archeologist digs up history beneath Polk-Quincy Viaduct Lacock told 27 News the school plans to use the cash to fix up its doors to help increase safety for students. Earlier this year, the Kansas State Treasurers Office shared that more than $575 million was unclaimed in the state. The Treasurers Office has successfully returned more than $418 million and continues to do so through its website. You can check to see if you have unclaimed property in Kansas by clicking here. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. Northern California man shoots at several homeless people with AR-15, police say (FOX40.COM) A man was arrested in Sutter County after he allegedly fired gunshots at multiple homeless individuals on Sunday night, according to the Yuba City Police Department. Around 11:30 p.m., YCPD said it was dispatched to 2nd Street for a report of shots fired at several transients. When officers arrived at the scene they found the suspect in his vehicle. Police said he was accompanied by three women. Hollywood Fire ignites in Yuba County Officials said K9 Rip helped officers search the area for evidence and discovered an AR-15 with a 30-round magazine in the drivers seat and a casing. Archuleta was booked into the Sutter County Jail in connection with multiple offenses. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. Northern Tier PA counties to see upgrades in electric grid with $2.1M grant NORTHERN TIER, Pa. (WETM) Tioga, Bradford, and numerous other counties in northern Pennsylvania were awarded more than $2 million in funding to boost grid resistance and reduce power outages. According to a release from the Claverack Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., operations in Bradford, Lackawanna, Tioga, Luzerne, Lycoming, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Wyoming Counties received $2,145,000 in state grant funding through the Pennsylvania Grid Resilience Grants Program. Police: Sayre woman arrested after driving onto Waverly golf course with stolen truck The release states that the funds will allow Claverack Rural Electric to install over 50 smart grid devices to the cooperativess fiber optic communications infrastructure. The grant will enable the cooperative to implement advanced satellite imagery and machine-learning technology to show the visibility of over 2,800 miles of electrical lines. The upgrades made with the funding will bolster the cooperatives eclectic grid resilience and reliability. The release added these efforts aim to reduce outage durations over the next several years. This grant comes after the Wellsboro Electric Company recently received more than $500,000 in state grant funding to limit outages and improve electrical infrastructure in the area. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. For the first time, a number of broadnose sevengill sharks and at least one critically endangered soupfin shark are calling south Puget Sound home. Researchers from Oregon State University recently confirmed the two distinct shark species' presence in the south Sound. Prior to the study, neither species had been formally documented in the area, although both have been found off the coast of Washington. Their appearance in the Sound is an intriguing development for scientists, fishermen, and casual enthusiasts alike. The researchers, who partnered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), published their findings this summer, in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science. A team of researchers uses a sling to catch and tag a sevengill shark in the Puget Sound. A Facebook photo kicks off a hunt In 2021, Washington wildlife officials began investigating a recreational fisherman who had caught a shark and posted a photo of it on his Facebook page. Officials believed that the shark was a sixgill, and that by removing it from the water, the fisherman had violated state law. But the fisherman argued that the shark was a distinct species: a broadnose sevengill. Sevengills, which can grow up to nine feet long, are found off the west coast of the United States and worldwide in temperate waters. They feed on marine mammals as well as fish and crabs. Dayv Lowry, a senior marine biologist for NOAA's Marine Fisheries Service, confirmed the shark in the Facebook photo was a sevengill. But something wasn't adding up. The fisherman claimed to have caught the sevengill in south Puget Sound, near Shelton. "I went, 'No, that can't be right,'" Lowry said. "I mean, [sevengills] just don't occur there." There have been occasional sevengill spottings in the Puget Sound, but never as far south as Shelton. Before Lowry and his colleagues published their findings this year, the last confirmed Puget Sound sevengill sighting was in 1991, near the Canadian border. Bewildered, Lowry brought the photo to the exact beach where the man claimed to have caught the sevengill. "Lo and behold, I...compared the two, looked at the background, and said, 'Yeah, he caught it standing right here,'" Lowry said. "It was like, wait. There's a science story here." A team of researchers works to catch and tag a sevengill shark in south Puget Sound. Using familiar methods in an unfamiliar location Other scientists quickly caught wind of the story. Taylor Chapple, the principal investigator at OSU's Big Fish Lab, signed on to search for sevengills, along with graduate students Jess Schulte and Ethan Personius. The researchers also partnered with Lisa Hillier, a marine biologist with WDFW. During 10 days of research in 2022 and 2023, the scientists fished for sharks from boats and from shore, using both dropline and more traditional rod-and-reel fishing setups. They caught, tagged, and released nine sevengills in total. Schulte, the lead author on the sevengill paper, said that while the location was new, the format of the study was not. "We basically just took a bunch of the methods that we use to study these species on the outer coast and along the coast of Washington and Oregon, and then just applied that to south Puget Sound," Schulte said. During fieldwork, the scientists also caught one soupfin shark a male just over five feet long. Soupfin sharks, which dwell in temperate waters worldwide, have long been prized for their meat and fins, as their name suggests. Overfishing has left the species critically endangered. The scientists' soupfin sighting brought the number of known shark species in Puget Sound to 11, according to reporting from KUOW. Ethan Personius hopes that his team's recent discoveries will help educate people who might not know that the Sound has sharks, let alone that those sharks "play an important role in the system." Lowry agreed. "It's exciting," he said. "You can see the anthill of interest and enthusiasm around this." More questions than answers Still, Lowry and his collaborators emphasized that their recent papers should be seen mostly as a starting point. "With this research, when it started out, the question was, 'Was this a fluke?'" Lowry said. Now, he said, with the response to that question a resounding no, it's time to establish "a research program, as opposed to just answering a simple question." "That's the continuation," he explained. "That's where we hope to get other students and other folks involved in this, collaborators keeping an eye out, people sharing tag detections, anything we can do to really build this out and better understand these animals." The first step is to confirm whether there are more of these sharks in the Sound. Of the nine sevengills found during the most recent study, eight were males. "There's potential that maybe the females are hanging out in another area of Puget Sound," Schulte said. The researchers will also have an eye out for more soupfins, hoping to confirm a larger-scale presence in the south Sound. As they continue to tag sharks, the researchers will record sharks' movements within the Sound, noting what they eat, where they linger, and how fast they swim. They hope gathering more data will help them determine the new species' ecological and economic effects on the greater Sound. Eventually, the scientists hope to solve an enduring mystery: how both sevengills and soupfins made their way to the south Sound "literally hundreds of miles from where the next nearest record is," Lowry pointed out without being detected by commercial fishermen en route. "That's what keeps me up at night," Schulte said with a laugh. More research will also help scientists know what brought the sharks to the Sound in the first place. Personius said soupfins, which prey on anchovies, could have been drawn by ballooning anchovy populations in the wake of an extreme 20142015 marine heat wave. Anchovies are "showing up in abundances that are catching people's attention now," Personius said. "People will go take a kayak out to go see the schools of anchovies." But other draws for both sharks remain unknown. The Puget Sound is a web of "both ecologically and economically important systems," Personius noted. "And there have been changes in these systems, and in order to really stay on top of things, we have to have a solid monitoring program. We have to know what species are coming in and then what those species are doing once they show up." He added, "That's really going to future-proof this system against climate change and other things that might be happening as a result of human impacts." This article originally appeared on Kitsap Sun: 2 new shark species found in Puget Sound Washington The latest edition of Defense News Top 100 list helps illustrate the continuing struggle of the U.S. Defense Department to broaden and diversify its supplier base. For years now, and with added urgency since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the DOD has been trying to expand access to a wider array of suppliers in pursuit of greater capacity, cost competition and technical innovation. The 2024 National Defense Industrial Strategy stated the DODs aim is to accelerate the growth of a more diverse, dynamic, and resilient modern defense industrial ecosystem. Despite the DODs efforts to attract new suppliers and diversify the industrial base, results are barely noticeable in the data. The top 11 companies by fiscal 2023 defense revenue in the list are the same as they were in fiscal 2015 (excluding Chinese and Russian firms, and accounting for the RTX and L3Harris Technologies mergers). Big dogs These 11 firms have maintained a roughly 60% share of the total defense revenues of all non-Russian or Chinese companies on the Top 100 list each year, from FY15 to FY23 a group that has grown less diverse through the RTX and L3Harris mergers. The Top 100 is here: Find out how defense companies performed in FY23 Defense Department contract data mirrors this trend. The top nine companies in FY23 by defense contract obligations are the same as they were for FY15 (accounting for the RTX and L3Harris mergers). During that period, those nine companies accounted for roughly 40% of the cumulative U.S. defense contract value each year, barring the COVID-19 pandemic-related blip during the FY21-22 time frame. Only three other companies cracked the top nine during the intervening years, and two of these were Pfizer and Moderna, due to coronavirus-related spending. Clearly, the commanding heights are occupied by a core group of highly competitive and entrenched players. But even expanding to look at the top 50 awardees of U.S. defense contract value shows a similar lack of change. The top 50 firms in FY15 have continuously accounted for an average of 58% of all spending each year through FY23. Some new firms are gaining traction in the DOD market. For example, the selection of Anduril and General Atomics for the first increment of the collaborative combat aircraft program seems to indicate the DODs willingness to draw on relative newcomers, even in high-end areas normally the preserve of the primes. But these players represent just a fraction of DOD spending. Anduril and General Atomics are privately held and do not publicly release financial information. Using DOD contract value data, General Atomics ($2.245 billion in FY23) ranks in the top 50, and Anduril ($240 million in FY23) is not among the top 100 for that fiscal year. Defense acquisition spending is dominated by major platform and weapon systems contracts, and these deals continue to be led by a select group of top prime contractors. Roughly 70% of the FY25 procurement budget is for aviation, shipbuilding, ground vehicles, missile defense and missiles and munitions areas that mainly consist of large programs of record. The real impact of the DODs ongoing efforts is among smaller firms than can show up on Defense News Top 100 list. The DOD has expanded the channels through which new players can engage the department. The seemingly limitless array of venture capital-funded startups is evidence that firms think the DOD is worth the risk, even if the process is difficult. But the number of newcomer firms that have grown to a substantial size through serving the DOD remains small such as General Atomics, SpaceX, Palantir and, perhaps soon, Anduril and they are exceptions to a much broader trend. Going global Indeed, the greatest activity in the Top 100 list has been outside the United States. This is due to both rising defense demand around the world and the increasingly competitive nature of global suppliers. In the Top 100s FY15 data, U.S. firms accounted for nearly 60% of the $356.7 billion in defense-related revenue. In this years list, for FY23, U.S. firms account for just 54% of the $603.9 billion in defense-related revenue. Whats more, South Koreas Hanwha shot from 38th place in FY15 to 19th in this years list. Likewise, German company Rheinmetall was 27th, but buoyed by Ukraine-related demand, the firm is now 20th. Israels Elbit Systems went from 26th to 22nd. The latest list also includes additions that did not appear in last years version based in China, Germany, Turkey, South Korea, India, the U.K. and the U.S. For China, domestic firms once again started appearing on the Top 100 list for FY18. The most recent time before that when a Chinese business appeared in the rankings was for fiscal 1999. From FY18 to FY23, Chinese firms share of the Top 100 defense revenue has hovered at an average of 18%. Growth among major international companies is another reason it is unlikely that smaller U.S. suppliers will appear on the Top 100 list. However, the limited change to the makeup of the list belies the increased engagement of the DOD, with new suppliers beneath the surface. Doug Berenson is a partner in the aerospace and defense practice at the consultancy Oliver Wyman, where Ian van Son is an associate. Major shift seen amid drop in marriage rates 09:20, August 06, 2024 By Yan Dongjie ( China Daily A young couple poses for a photo at a marriage registration office of the Civil Affairs Bureau in Dongxing district of Neijiang city, Southwest China's Sichuan province, Feb 14, 2023. [Photo by Li Jianming/For China Daily] China has witnessed a significant decline in marriage rates as 3.43 million couples tied the knot in the first half of this year, a 12.7 percent drop from the previous year, setting a record low, according to the Ministry of Civil Affairs. The trend, attributed to various factors including economic pressures and changing societal norms, reflects a broader shift in marriage patterns across the country, experts said, calling for more conditions to be created and more support provided for young people to get married. The statistics released by the ministry late last week showed that more than 1.46 million couples registered for marriage in the second quarter of this year, marking a decrease of 34.8 percent compared with the first quarter. Zhou Haiwang, a researcher at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences' Institute of Urban and Population Development, said, "The number of people born 20 to 30 years ago was relatively small, which is the most direct reason for the current decline in the number of marriages." According to the seventh national census, the post-1980, post-1990, and post-2000 generations in China are 215 million, 178 million, and 155 million, respectively, which has also led to a decrease in the number of people of marriageable age. Data indicates that marriage numbers in China have been declining annually since 2014, falling below 10 million in 2019 and dropping below 7 million in 2022. While there was a slight increase last year, the downward trend continues. Yao Yang, a distinguished professor at Peking University, believes that the decline in marriage and birth rates in East Asian societies, where women are usually expected to take on the majority of child care and educational responsibilities, is related to rapid economic development in recent years. Against the backdrop of a better education and higher incomes, women in East Asian countries, including China, are increasingly pursuing a higher quality of life and career development. In this context, the time and energy required for marriage and childbirth become particularly prominent, he said during an interview with ifeng.com. This not only increases the burden on women after marriage, but also raises their concerns about their future life. Along with the improvement of living standards, this has led women to adopt a more cautious attitude toward marriage and childbirth, Yao added. According to a survey conducted among unmarried working professionals by recruitment portal zhilian.com in 2021, more than 43 percent of the female respondents said they chose not to get married because of "concerns about reducing their quality of life", while about 54 percent of male respondents chose "limited financial conditions" as the primary reason. Zhou agreed that socioeconomic factors play a crucial role in young people's decision on whether to get married. "If young people feel that employment and career stability are not guaranteed, and their income expectations are not optimistic, some will choose to postpone relationships and marriage, and will only consider marriage after meeting certain conditions," he said. Census data showed that from 2010 to 2020, the average age at which men in China got married increased from 25.75 to 29.38, and for women, it increased from 24 to 27.95. To address this issue, during the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, which concluded last month, it was proposed to improve the support and service system for population development, with a key aspect being the establishment of a fertility support system to support high-quality population development. Li Ting, a professor at the School of Population and Health at Renmin University of China, emphasized in a recent article that the decline in marriage rates will have a significant impact on fertility rates. Li suggested that attention should be paid to the changing trends in marriage and divorce rates, and certain subsidies and incentives should be provided for marriage and dating. Additionally, efforts should be made to expand and enrich dating services and platforms for young people, create a more relaxed work environment for young people, and provide more secure housing and job markets for young people entering marriage, she said. (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Liang Jun) Now that the run for VP is over for Beshear, he can get back to lengthy to-do list | Opinion Back during the 2023 campaign, Gov. Andy Beshear made a pro-forma pledge that he would fulfill the four years of his second term here in Kentucky, no matter what might beckon from Washington, D.C. No one believed that, of course. If someone with national political aspirations gets a call to audition for a vice presidential spot, any concerns about getting your kids through high school or finishing a policy agenda goes poof! in a cloud of ambition. And so it was. Andy will go to Washington some day, just not right now. The 46-year-old governor has clearly impressed folks, so if Kamala Harris wins, maybe he gets a cabinet position. Or maybe he runs for Sen. Mitch McConnells spot. He is probably the last remaining Democrat who has a hope of winning a statewide spot in Kentucky. Beshears brief national spotlight has been good for Kentucky, showing the world it can produce more than JD Vance, for one thing. We would have been in good hands with Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman. Gov. Andy Beshear apologized to Diet Mountain Dew during a news conference Thursday at the Kentucky Capitol in Frankfort. Beshear had previously asked who drinks the diet version of the soda after Republican Vice Presidential nominee JD Vance said hed probably be considered racist for enjoying the beverage. But losing the governor would have caused a lot of bother and churn that would further stall the glacial pace of government. So for now, while hes back among us, we have a few ideas of ways he can finish out the next three years: Continue the fight against Amendment 2. Beshear has said he will campaign heavily against the ballot initiative that would allow public school funding to be diverted to private schools, but that would have been difficult if he were on the campaign trail with Harris. Work on getting disaster-hit areas back up and running. The progress being made with housing in Eastern Kentucky is commendable, but more needs to be done, and we need more plans to be ready when the next disaster hits. Try to build back the grassroots Democratic Party of Kentucky. Its understandable that Beshear focused all the partys resources on his reelection, but now with a little more time on his hands, he should try to raise money and recruit candidates for an actual functioning political party. As Ive written before, the absolute power of the GOP across the state isnt good for anyone; a healthy, successful political system needs balance to work for all Kentuckians. Improve the relationship with the General Assembly and constitutional officers. It doesnt matter whose fault it is. The amount of sniping that goes on in Frankfort is a pointless waste of time. Keep on talking about policy thats neither blue nor red and maybe someday it will sink in. Unravel the knot that is Kentuckys juvenile justice system. The problems didnt start on Beshears watch, but they havent been fixed on them either. Now a federal investigation will probably force some issues the state ignored. Andy Beshear is a good spokesman for Kentucky in a country that mostly believes we walk around barefoot and quote JD Vance to each other at fried chicken picnics. Its good for the world to see we actually contain multitudes, just like other states. Beshear can spend the next few years repping us until he decides whats next. Added bonus: Every time he does, it makes statewide Republicans who dislike Beshear go berserk. So fun for everyone! Nurse says she was kicked off Southwest flight for genetic disorder Brianna Solari said shes never flying with Southwest Airlines again after her alleged experience (KCRA) A California nurse is threatening to take legal action against Southwest Airlines as she was left humiliated after allegedly being kicked off a flight for her disfiguring genetic disorder. Brianna Solari from Roseville boarded Southwest Flight 3471 from Hollywood Burbank Airport at around 12pm on Thursday when she said she was confronted by a crew member who allegedly asked her to step off the aircraft. The woman said she was flying home following surgery hoping to help treat her Neurofibromatosis, an incurable genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow along the nerves. The procedure looked at removing some of the tumors from her body. So tumors grow along nerves and can be tiny, little pinpoint tumors, or they can be enormous. Some of them can be very disfiguring, she told KCRA. The flight attendant, who remains nameless, asked Solari whether she had any medical conditions or diseases, she claimed. Solari said she was flying back from Hollywood after having a procedure for her Neurofibromatosis (KCRA) Thats none of their business whats going on. But I said, no, I had surgery. And they said, OK, the medical professional said. Solari said that the crew member called a doctor who was contracted with the airline on his mobile phone. Solari claimed that she wanted to speak directly with the physician, but the employee prevented her from doing so. I exited the airplane, and they said there had been some concerns, she said. Solari missed her flight and she allegedly had to obtain a letter from her surgeon which explained her condition, clearing her to fly. Solari was later allowed to travel and said she boarded another flight to Sacramento. The specific flight details are not clear. Southwest Airlines allegedly gave Solari a $500 voucher for her experience, the woman claims (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) The whole scenario left her feeling both angry and ashamed, and she declared shell never fly with Southwest Airlines again. Humiliated, embarrassed, ashamed? Its already hard enough. Its already difficult enough with this condition because I did have some visible tumors on my face and my arms, and people would comment, she said. I dont think Ill ever fly them again. I think this could have been handled much more professionally, Solari added. Following her experience, the woman said she received a $500 flight voucher and a $45 meal voucher from the airline. She is, however, allegedly still threatening legal action, according to KCRA. This is absolutely discrimination! Violating my medical privacy. They dont have to know I just said I had surgery, and that should be it. They shouldnt be prying into my private medical information, Solari said. When approached for comment about Solaris experience, a Southwest Airlines spokesperson said that the company offers its deepest apologies. We are disheartened to learn of the Customers experience flying with us and extend our deepest apologies for the inconvenience, they told The Independent. Even though our Team ultimately received clearance for the Customer to travel, we werent able to do so in time for the flights departure. We rebooked her on a later flight, offered a travel voucher for a future flight along with a meal voucher, and were following up with her directly to discuss the situation. Aug 6, 2024, 1:13pm EDT tech North America The News AI chip giant Nvidias domination is inviting global regulatory scrutiny from the US, Europe, and China. The US Department of Justice has begun an antitrust probe into Nvidia, The Information first reported, and is reviewing Nvidias sales practices and recent acquisitions, according to The New York Times. Its the latest tug-of-war between Silicon Valley and Washington as regulators rein in years of alleged anticompetitive business practices by tech giants. The battle intensified Monday after a federal judge ruled that Googles massive search business violated a 19th century antitrust law. But unlike other tech giants who have been subjected to decades-long scrutiny, Nvidia is scrambling to fend off probes into its newfound market dominance, The Times wrote. SIGNALS Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories. Nvidia doesnt have same Washington relationship as other tech giants Source: The New York Times Nvidia wasnt ready for the attention it has received from the AI boom and the subsequent scrutiny, The New York Times wrote. CEO Jensen Huang rarely visited Washington, but did so twice last year as the Biden administration expanded its China export controls on technology. Nvidias scramble speaks to the narrow window it has to head off the kind of regulatory attention that has hamstrung other tech giants, The Times wrote. Regulators concerns are driven by the extent of Nvidias power in determining how to allocate its AI chips as demand far outpaces supply. Nvidia might be too young to have a monopoly Source: MarketWatch While Nvidias significant growth over the last year has turned it into the worlds third most valuable tech company, the AI industry is still too relatively nascent to determine if Nvidia has a monopoly over it, MarketWatch columnist Daniel Newman argued in April. Other giants like Advanced Micro Devices and Amazon also have promising AI chip plans. Industry insiders say that theres no evidence to suggest Nvidias business model is harming consumers, and Newman argued that its pricing power has come more from scarcity and demand rather than monopolistic behavior. Big Tech targeted by dueling antitrust approaches from the US and EU Source: Politico Regulators in Brussels and Washington are taking dueling approaches on how to rein in Big Tech, Politico reported. The US doesnt have new laws on its books, and is targeting companies with individual lawsuits through the Federal Trade Commission and the Justice Department, but the upcoming election could reset Washingtons priorities before any of the cases are resolved. Meanwhile, Brussels digital antitrust law passed in 2022 could take years to implement, giving time to companies to adapt and evade penalties. Still, the different approaches impose a considerable burden on tech giants who had become accustomed to years of a light hand, a tech trade group leader said. EYEWITNESS NEWS (WBRE/WYOU) The National Weather Service (NWS) on Monday issued severe thunderstorm watches and severe flash flood warnings across Pennsylvania Monday evening. According to NWS officials, severe thunderstorm watches were in place for the following counties until 8:00 p.m. Clinton Lycoming Tioga Officials with the NWS say residents in the area should expect damage to siding, trees, and roofs due to those storms. Meanwhile, a flash flood warning was issued for the following counties that would be in place until 9:15 p.m. Tioga Bradford Susquehanna The NWS says radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain were found in our region and one to two inches of rain had fallen. Weather Alerts Additional rainfall from one-half to one inch were also possible, according to NWS. Some locations that could experience flash flooding include the following. Montrose Little Meadows Friendsville Warren Center Middletown Center Birchardville Wyoanna Salt Springs State Park. To stay up to date on the latest weather alerts, use the Eyewitness Interactive Radar. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com. Walterboro apartment complex warned of flooding during Tropical Storm Debby COLLETON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) The National Weather Service issued Tuesday morning a Code RED alert for residents at a Walterboro apartment complex after flood waters caused nearby roads to flood. Residents at the Ivanhoe Apartments adjacent to Ireland Creek are urged to seek higher grounds by the National Weather Service. Ireland Creek Drive and Ivanhoe Road have been closed by authorities due to flooding from excessive rainfall. Photo courtesy of National Weather Service According to the National Weather Service, Ireland Creek at Walterboro has reached 8.8 ft of flooded waters. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. NEW YORK (AP) A New York City journalist was arrested on felony hate crime charges Tuesday after filming a pro-Palestinian protest earlier this summer in which activists hurled red paint at the homes of top leaders at the Brooklyn Museum. Samuel Seligson, an independent videographer, was not involved in the vandalism and is only accused of documenting it, according to a law enforcement official familiar with the case. The official spoke with The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the ongoing investigation. Body parts found near Yonkers bridge were brought on the Metro-North: Sources Leena Widdi, an attorney for Seligson, said New York Police Department officers twice raided Seligsons Brooklyn apartment in the past week before he turned himself in early Tuesday. She described the arrest and use of a hate crime statute as an appalling overreach by police against a journalist with a city-issued press credential. Seligson is a fixture at New York City protests who has licensed and sold footage to mainstream outlets, including Reuters and ABC News. Samuel is being charged for alleged behavior that is protected by the First amendment and consistent with his job as a credentialed member of the press, Widdi said in an email. What is even more concerning, however, is that this member of the press is being charged with a hate crime. An NYPD spokesperson confirmed Seligson was charged Tuesday with two counts of criminal mischief with a hate crime advancement, a felony. The spokesperson declined to say what he was accused of doing at the protest. Seligson was previously arrested in May at a separate pro-Gaza demonstration. He told the U.S. Press Freedom Tracker that he was livestreaming the demonstration as police made arrests and identified himself as a journalist. A spokesperson for the Brooklyn district attorney said that case had been closed and sealed. The June vandalism targeted four homes belonging to members of the Brooklyn Museums board, including its Jewish director, generating allegations of antisemitism and condemnations from across the political spectrum. The activists wore face masks and dark clothing as they spray-painted slogans on the board members homes accusing them of funding genocide, according to court papers. They also hung banners featuring an inverted red triangle that authorities say is a symbol used by Hamas to identify Israeli military targets, prosecutors said. The vandalism came days after hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters occupied the Brooklyn Museums lobby and vandalized artwork. Organizers at that event said the museum was deeply invested in and complicit in Israels military actions in Gaza through its leadership, trustees, corporate sponsors and donors an allegation museum officials deny. Last week, police arrested another suspect, 28-year-old Taylor Pelton, who is accused of driving the car used by the vandals. Pelton, like Seligson, is Jewish. Authorities are still seeking four people involved in the vandalism. As fierce protests erupted in New York City against Israels war in Gaza, the NYPD has come under scrutiny for its treatment of both protesters and journalists. In May, officers were accused of tackling and arresting two photojournalists covering an encampment at a state university. Top police officials have also gone after journalists on social media, accusing one freelance reporter of inventing false narratives about their treatment of protesters. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. NEW YORK (PIX11) For 40 years, National Night Out has been taking back the streets one community at a time, and on Tuesday night more than 70 NYPD Precincts are participating across New York City. NYPD Deputy Commissioner Tarik Sheppard joins PIX11 to discuss the mission behind National Night Out and more. Watch the video for more on this story. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. MOULTRIE, Ga. (WSAV) Heavy winds and rain associated with Debby toppled a large tree onto a porch at a home in south Georgia, killing a 19-year-old man, authorities said Monday. Colquitt County Coroner C. Verlyn Brock said the man died at the home in the city of Moultrie, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) northwest of Valdosta, Georgia, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. The latest on Tropical Storm Debby The storm has damaged roofs and downed power lines in Moultrie, Police Chief Chad Castleberry told a local news station. The National Hurricane Center said Debby had top winds near 45 mph (75 kph) Monday evening as it moved slowly to the northeast. It was expected to cross southeastern Georgia and to slow to a crawl as it turns eastward. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. Red Ventures is selling CNET Media Group just four years after acquiring it for $500 million, Red Ventures confirmed to The Charlotte Observer Tuesday. Red Ventures is selling the company for over $100 million, the New York Times reported. New York City-based media company Ziff Davis is acquiring CNET, Red Ventures spokeswoman Ami Shukla confirmed. The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of 2024, Shukla said. CNET posts news and reviews about tech and consumer electronics. CNET was founded in 1994 and is based in San Francisco. Red Ventures sold CNET because it positions (Red Ventures) well for continued growth, Shukla said. About Red Ventures Red Ventures is a Fort Mill, South Carolina,-based internet marketing and media company. It acquired CNET in 2020 from Viacom CBS. That acquisition was the last in a series of purchases, including Lonely Planet, Bankrate and Allconnect, over a four-year period ending in 2020. The company was founded over a decade ago. It now employs about 1,800 people total and 800 people in the Charlotte area, Shukla said. Red Ventures is a media company that focuses on news, advice and news sites such as Lonely Planet and The Points Guy. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A record number of children attending Clark County public schools were hit by vehicles in the 2023-2024 school year, some resulting in serious injuries, according to Clark County officials. The data from the county also revealed a combination of e-bikes and reckless driving may have led to the uptick. Looking at the amount of students that are on e-bikes, we did have a serious injury crash last year and so we are starting to monitor the number of e-bikes that are involved in these crashes, Andrew Bennett, the countys director of traffic safety, said on Monday. A record number of children attending Clark County public schools were hit by vehicles in the 2023-2024 school year, some resulting in serious injuries. (KLAS) Bennett was one of several county leaders discussing school zone safety on Monday. He added that 138 students were hit in school zones by vehicles this past school year, a 100 percent increase compared to the previous 2022-2023 year. Clark County, North Las Vegas, and Henderson have all allocated funds toward hiring crossing guards for middle schools. New travel option opens for southwest Las Vegas neighborhood ahead of new school year Rayan Kim, 12, was struck by a car in January while riding his e-bike to Gunderson Middle School. The crash put him in the ICU, but he has since recovered. Kims mother wrote on social media back in May: Rayan left home in the morning without knowing it would take three months to get to school, but he still made it back to school. Bennett said these crashes frequently happen one hour before school starts and one hour after students are let out. Southwest Las Vegas improvement project wraps up with traffic light near schools Driving that vehicle is going to be the ultimate thing that does injure children, so we need to make sure that at the end of the day, we are following the speed limits, Bennett said. Funding approved by the county will add a crossing guard at each of the 23 middle schools in unincorporated Clark County. We want to make sure that the kids going to and from school get there safely, Lt. Daryl Rhoads of the Las Vegas Metro Police Department said. Lt. Rhoads said there are concerns as children return to class on Monday, Aug. 12 given how deadly valley roads have been. As of Sunday, 91 traffic deaths have been reported in the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Departments jurisdiction. It seems like driving behavior for the majority of this year has been terrible. We see that not just in our school zones, but across the valley, Lt. Rhoads said. Las Vegas Metropolitan police will be joining the Clark County School District Police Department next week in increasing enforcement in school zones. As a reminder, U-turns are not allowed in a school zone as well as passing other vehicles. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. HONOLULU (KHON2) The Honolulu Police Department is searching for a Laumaka work furlough inmate who escaped around 11 a.m. on Monday. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Rory Sitani, 39, is described as 511 tall and weighing 290 pounds. He is curently serving a sentence for criminal property damage and burglary charges. Sitani will face an additional escape charge upon capture. $10,000 reward for information on missing pregnant woman Authorities urge anyone with information to call 9-1-1. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Ohio dad read from the Bible and told his three young sons they were the best boys ever. Then he killed them An Ohio father read from the Bible, told his children he loved them, and called his own father cryptically telling him that his eldest boy would be the hardest one before he murdered his three young sons in a horror attack at the family home. Chad Doerman, 33, shot and killed his sons Clayton Doerman, 7, Hunter Doerman, 4, and Chase Doerman, 3, in Monroe Township, about 75 miles west of Columbus, back on June 15 2023. On Friday, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three consecutive life terms in prison. Now, disturbing new details have emerged about Doermans actions in the lead-up to the murders and of the final hours of the three young boys lives. In a press briefing on Monday, Clermont County Prosecuting Attorney Mark Tekulve revealed that on the day of the shooting spree, Doerman had lunch with his wife Laura and told her: This will be my last good meal. Despite this mysterious statement, Laura did not think there was a need to do something to protect the family and her husband then spent the afternoon doing yard work and playing with the children. Chad Doerman pleaded guilty to shooting dead his three young sons, aged 3 to 7 (Facebook) At around 3.30 to 3.45pm, Doerman began reading the Bible to Hunter, Tekulve said. He was walking around the house with the Bible, mumbling Chad knows whats right. Chad knows whats right, he said. Just before 4pm, Doerman asked his family to join him for a nap in the master bedroom. His wife and three sons entered the room with him while his 12-year-old stepdaughter watched television in another room. When Doerman opened the gun safe, his wife grew alarmed, telling him: Youre scaring me. The 33-year-old murderer wept in court as he admitted to gunning down his three young sons (Cincinnati Enquirer) What happened next was a series of events that brought experienced officers to tears, Tekulve told reporters in a separate press briefing on Friday. Doerman told his family he loved them and called his sons the best boys ever. Then he jumped up from the bed and grabbed the .22 rifle from the safe, with the prosecutor revealing that his family were initially worried for his safety rather than their own, fearing he would kill himself. Laura is screaming, the boys are screaming, Laura is frightened that hes about to kill himself, said Tekulve. Theyre all trying to discourage him, telling him that they love him and begging him not to kill himself. Bodycam footage shows the moment Chad Doerman is arrested for killing his three young sons (ABC/Screenshot) The shootings took place in Monroe Township, Ohio in June this year (Cincinnati Enquirer) Laura took out her phone to call 911 but Doerman threw it across the room and turned the gun on Hunter, shooting the four-year-old boy multiple times. He then chased his wife and stepdaughter out of the house and wrestled his other two sons away from them, before also shooting and killing Clayton and Chase. The 12-year-old girl was uninjured, but her mother suffered a gunshot wound to her hand while trying to shield one of her sons from Doermans attack. The father-of-three was arrested that day and indicted on charges of aggravated murder, kidnapping and felonious assault. Prosecutors initially sought the death pentalty before reaching a plea deal with Doerman handing him three life sentences, saying it was best for the survivors: Doing anything further would be an act of cruelty. Chad Doerman is facing three consecutive lifetimes sentences in prison for killing his three young sons (Clermont County Sheriff) Laura has also released a heartbreaking statement, saying that while no punishment will ever bring her sons back, having a guarantee that the will spend the rest of his life behind bars is what is best for her family. I am in full agreement with how the criminal case was resolved, and the decision to end this criminal case with a plea and multiple life sentences brings some finality to the court case for my daughter and me, Laura said. Remember them as the three little boys who loved fishing, go-carting, and swimming, the statement continued. Remember them as the boys who love to have fun and were inseparable from one another. Their lives are not only about what happened to them they are so much more that that. I love you Clayton, Hunter, and Chase. Ohio judge rules ban on health care for transgender minors can take effect, appeal expected Jan 10, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, United States ; People stream into the Rotunda following a vote to override DeWine's veto of House Bill 68. The Bill would restrict medical care for transgender minors and block transgender girls from female sports, Click was the primary sponsor of the Bill. A Franklin County judge ruled Tuesday that Ohio's ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors can take effect immediately. Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Judge Michael Holbrook rescinded an earlier restraining order temporarily blocking the law, which also bans transgender girls from participating in female sports. The American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio plans to appeal the decision. Holbrook, a Republican, ruled that Ohio's new ban doesn't violate the Ohio Constitution's health care freedom amendment or an Ohio law requiring legislation be limited to a single subject. "The court finds the health care ban reasonably limits parents' rights to make decisions about their children's medical care consistent with the states deeply rooted legitimate interest in the regulation of medical profession and medical treatments," Holbrook wrote in his order. The Ohio law prevents doctors from prescribing hormones, puberty blockers or gender reassignment surgery for patients under 18. The American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio sued the state on behalf of two Ohio transgender girls and their families, saying the law violates their right to choose their health care under the Ohio Constitution. Holbrook temporarily blocked the law in April. The ACLU of Ohio argued that puberty blockers and hormone therapy are safe and effective approaches for treating gender dysphoria. Gender dysphoria refers to the distress a person feels when their gender identity does not match their assigned sex. The Ohio Attorney General's Office argued that gender dysphoria should be addressed solely through mental health interventions. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost applauded Holbrook's decision. "This case has always been about the legislatures authority to enact a law to protect our children from making irreversible medical and surgical decisions about their bodies," Yost spokeswoman Bethany McCorkle said. "The law doesnt say 'no' forever; it simply says 'not now while the child is still growing." Freda Levenson, legal director at the ACLU of Ohio, called the decision devastating and a genuine setback. This loss is not just devastating for our brave clients, but for the many transgender youth and their families across the state who require this critical, life-saving health care," she said in a statement. "While this decision by the court is a genuine setback, it is not the end of the road in our fight to secure the constitutional rights of transgender youth, as well as all Ohioans right to bodily autonomy." Read the decision here: Ruling on transgender healthcare bill by Jessie Balmert on Scribd This embedded content is not available in your region. Erin Glynn is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Judge: Ohio ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors can take effect Customers line up outside The Botanist, a marijuana dispensary in Akron, Ohio, on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Editors note: A previous version of this story stated that Bloom Medicinals was selling recreational marijuana in Summit County starting Tuesday. The Beacon Journal was informed by the business that it isn't selling recreational marijuana yet and it's unsure when it will start. For pot enthusiasts in the Buckeye State, the wait is finally over. The first recreational marijuana dispensaries in Ohio open Tuesday, with more expected in the coming weeks and months. Here's what you need to know about the rollout of recreational marijuana sales across the state: Where can I buy weed in Greater Akron? In Summit County: Culture Cannabis Club : 1568 E. Archwood Ave., Akron The Botanist : 46 S. Summit St., Akron FRX Health: 1682 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls In Portage County: Bliss Ohio : 331 E. Main St., Kent Supergood: 554 N. Chestnut St., Ravenna How much marijuana can I have in Ohio? Adults 21 and older can possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and 15 grams of extracts or edibles. But there are limits on what you can buy in one transaction. Initially, recreational customers can purchase no more than: One ounce of dried plant material, called flower. Ten units of oil to vape, each containing 590mg of THC. Ten packages of edibles totaling no more than 1,100mg of THC. The caps are combined across all types of products. That means you can't purchase the maximum amount of flower, vape cartridges and edibles in one sitting. What do I need to bring with me to buy recreational marijuana in Ohio? Customers will need to bring an ID to purchase recreational marijuana. It's illegal for dispensaries to sell to anyone under 21. Can I use a credit card at a marijuana dispensary? For payment, cash is king. This is because federal banking regulations open banks and credit card companies up to legal liability for accepting payment for cannabis. Some dispensaries in the state accept debit cards for cashless ATM transactions, which also require a fee. The use of debit cards for marijuana has proven a contentious topic, with Mastercard last year instructing banks not to allow cannabis purchases, according to The New York Times. Customers who don't bring cash can take money out of on-site ATMs for a fee. At The Botanist, another option is to provide your bank account information for an automated clearing house (ACH) payment with no fee, Ols said. The Citizen's dispensaries in Canton and Lorain also process ACH transactions, said Pete Nischt, vice president of communications and compliance at Klutch Cannabis, The Citizen's parent company. "It's more convenient for consumers, it's legal, it's compliant and it's kind of an added precaution in helping a store mitigate the amount of money that it has to keep on hand," he said. Kate Ols, executive vice president of Midwest and New England regions for Acreage Holdings, the parent company of The Botanist, talks about changes it will be making for when adult-use marijuana sales start during a tour of The Botanist's Akron dispensary. What types of products can I buy at dispensaries in Ohio? At first, Ohios dual-licensed marijuana businesses will sell the same types of products they currently offer in the medical market. That means there won't be pre-rolls or concentrates with more than 70% THC for sale right away. Those could appear on shelves starting around September, provided the law doesn't change. As passed by voters, it increased the THC cap for extracts to 90% and lifted a ban on combustion, or burning cannabis with a flame. Products available now include: Flower and concentrates for vaporization. Concentrate-filled vape cartridges. Edibles. Drinks. Topical creams. Lotions. Patches. Available non-plant-based accessories at numerous Ohio dispensaries include vaporizers for flower and concentrates, vape batteries and cartridges that can be filled with concentrates, and grinders for breaking up flower. How much does marijuana cost in Ohio? Flower typically costs anywhere from $30 to over $100, depending on the strain and amount per container. Vape pens and cartridges can range from $25 to $75. Edibles are usually a little cheaper about $15 to $30 per package but high-potency products get more expensive. These prices don't account for sales or deals that dispensaries may offer. What are the taxes on recreational marijuana in Ohio? Ohio will impose a 10% excise tax on recreational marijuana. That's in addition to the 5.75% state sales tax on tangible goods. Additional, local taxes vary by county, and in some parts of the state, there is a transit authority tax, according to the Ohio Department of Taxation. What's the difference between indica and sativa? Indica strains tend to be associated with relaxation and sedation and often contain more CBD while sativa is known for energizing users. Hybrids could be anywhere in the middle. But it isn't that simple, said Brian Wingfield, owner of Ohio Cannabis Company. He encouraged shoppers to talk with dispensary employees about their needs and what kind of effect they want from the product. Can my employer bar me from using marijuana even though it's legal in Ohio? Yes. Employers can still ban marijuana use and drug test employees for it. How is Ohio law enforcement cracking down on people driving while high? It's still illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana, and passengers can't smoke or vape in the vehicle. The state's OVI laws apply to anyone who violates those rules. Law enforcement can conduct multiple tests to determine if a driver is under the influence of cannabis, according to Dominy Law Firm. Field test results can signal to the officer whether they should arrest the driver. Police typically conduct a blood or urine test for drugs and alcohol after an arrest. Under Ohio law, presumed impaired driving equates to "at least 2 nanograms of marijuana in your blood or at least 10 nanograms of marijuana per milliliter of your urine," according to The Farrish Law Firm. Cresco Labs employees Meemee Talbert of Kettering, right, and Sarah Criswell of Fairborn move plants to the indoor greenhouse as part of the first marijuana crop for Ohio's new adult recreational use program. Where does my tax money go when I buy recreational marijuana in Ohio? Revenue from the 10% excise tax goes to four pots of money: A social equity and jobs program geared toward people who were disproportionately affected by marijuana prohibition. (36%) Municipalities with dispensaries. (36%) Substance abuse and addiction fund. (25%) Administrative costs. (3%) What if I'm a medical marijuana patient in Ohio? Division of Cannabis Control requires dispensaries to accommodate patients and caregivers, which could mean setting aside products or having dedicated hours for them. Licensees also must ensure there's enough inventory for patients. Medical marijuana patients won't be subject to the 10% excise tax. Will I start seeing marijuana billboards everywhere in Ohio like in Michigan and other states? This is unlikely. Crawford said rules for marijuana advertising need to be finalized, but they will be similar to the advertising rules in the states medical cannabis program. Currently, Crawford said, any advertisements with a high likelihood of reaching persons under the age of 18 are prohibited. Patrick Williams covers growth and development for the Akron Beacon Journal. He can be reached by email at pwilliams@gannett.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @pwilliamsOH. This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Ohio recreational weed sales begin Tuesday. What you need to know. CANTON The wait is over. Customers from the Stark County area and beyond filed in fast-moving lines through dispensaries Tuesday morning for the first legal sales of recreational marijuana in Ohio. The Canton Repository visited all four dispensaries in the city the only dispensaries in Stark County to record the historic day. Mark Keen, a dispensary agent at The Botanist marijuana dispensary in Canton, bags an order Tuesday for Shannon McDonough of Dalton. Patrons line up at the Botanist At 9:00 a.m., there were about 15 people lined up outside The Botanist, where an outdoor kiosk was set up to speed up purchases. "Since we are expecting longer lines and busier stuff, we're trying to kind of control the flow of things," said Luke Daher, an employee at The Botanist, 3840 Greentree Ave. SW. "By the time they get in and get to talking to our staff, it's not about changing orders and working through all that, it's just about getting their product, getting excited and getting back to their home." Daher said recreational sales for cannabis have been a long time coming. "I think everyone in Ohio was excited about this back in November when they passed it, and so finally getting to see this come into place has been really awesome," he said. After guests made it through the outdoor kiosk, they were able to choose from stickers, plates, stress balls and other souvenirs to commemorate the day. Items were limited to one per customer. Freebies were available Tuesday at The Botanist dispensary in Canton, marking Ohio's first day of recreational marijuana sales. Lorie Ouellette, 55, of Canton, said she came out to The Botanist because she's been waiting for legal cannabis for a long time. "You don't have to worry about the cops, you don't have to worry about finding somebody (or) going through all the red tape to get it," she said. She purchased gummies and cannabis, and she said she thought the prices were fair. "This is my first time here, but so far, from what I've seen on the menu, everything looks good," Ouellette said. "Very reasonable." Benjamin McCollum, a resident of Hamilton, wanted to make sure he was one of the first to take part in the first day of sales. As expected, McCollum said, he paid a little more than he would have in another state like Michigan. "It was about 8:30 when we got here," he said. "Today was a very important day." In and out at The Citizen by Klutch in Canton About a dozen people waited for the 10 a.m. opening of The Citizen by Klutch in downtown Canton. A digital display in the lobby showed the "waiting room queue" and people were called one by one to the sales area. They could select from various products on digital kiosks or receive a printed menu, if needed, said Pete Nischt, vice president of compliance and communications. He said the price for 2.83 grams in Ohio ranges between about $34 to $55. The Orange 43 strain, which Nischt said has been one of the most popular, was priced at $48.50 for 2.83 grams. Recreational users are permitted to buy up to one ounce of flower in a single transaction, or 10 units of 2.83 grams. "We're in a transitional period," he said, adding that prices likely will decrease over time as the state program increases its supply. The Michigan cannabis market is not a fair price comparison because it's set up differently with no limit on the number of licenses, Nischt said. What to know: You can now buy recreational marijuana in Ohio Mariah Covell, 23, of Canton and Jay Howard, 33, of Alliance have been to dispensaries in other states, including Michigan and California. "So we were pretty stoked for recreational to finally come to Ohio," Covell said. They were among the first customers at Klutch, 401 Cherry Ave. NE, for vape products and said prices were more expensive than those in Michigan but comparable to prices in California. Howard said Michigan dispensaries are more "commercialized," with a wall of products you line up to buy as opposed to talking over options. Covell said she prefers California's glass display cases and almost "jewelry store"-like shopping experience. Brandice Digman, 34, of Canton said she was a bit intimidated but found the process easy and the staff willing to help. "I've never been in one, so this is the first time," she said. Ohio Cannabis Co. draws later crowd The Ohio Cannabis Co., 4016 Greentree Ave. SW, began selling at 10 a.m., and around 20 people were there as doors opened. Staff staggered guests in continuously, so there was rarely a large line but traffic remained steady. Cindy Bradford, the owner of Ohio Cannabis, said she's been working on beginning recreational sales since 2018. "This is a big deal for the entire state," she said. "We're just super excited that we can offer cannabis to everybody that wants to take advantage of the homeopathic medication." The company drew in medical patients as well as recreational patrons, as Morgan Whited, 30, got her medical card after breaking her tailbone a few years ago. She came alongside Billie Davis, who she said had been waiting for recreational marijuana for what must have been 70 years. "I have a smile from ear-to-ear," Davis said. Whited said that though she is a medical patient, the process for recreational use was very similar to hers. "I think that they've set it up where it's just very easy," she said. "It's awesome. I definitely recommend." Beckett Salchak, the general manager at the Ohio Cannabis, said the morning's traffic was on record pace. "This has been our busiest Tuesday thus far," he said. "I think we've seen what we usually see on a usual Tuesday already." Salchak said he's been using cannabis for most of his life to treat chronic pain conditions, so he's happy to be able to help people access it recreationally in the state. "I've had corrective surgeries, and they've done a little bit, but not much. So, I actually started using cannabis ... to self-medicate," he said. "I'm so proud of our crew here. They're all very compassionate people that just are passionate about the plant and just want to help." Guests reported that their wait times at the Ohio Cannabis were short. Opinions about prices varied. Ruby Attar, a 21-year-old nursing student from Massillon, said the pricing did not match standards in other states. "I was in Michigan a few weeks ago, and the pricing in Michigan compared to the pricing here is drastic," she said. "Cartridges that I bought in Michigan that were $7, and here, they're $40, and it's the same exact one." The staff at Zen Leaf marijuana dispensary in Canton cheer after a ribbon-cutting for recreational sales Tuesday. Zen Leaf cuts ribbon for recreational customers Paul Gondek, of Marlboro Township, said he's been "waiting a long time" for cannabis to be legal in Ohio. There's been a stigma around the plant for much of his life. "It's essentially just a flower," Gondek said while waiting in line at Zen Leaf, 3224 Cleveland Ave. NW. Paul Gondek, of Marlboro Township, is handed his order of recreational marijuana products from Nanai Mehm, agent in charge, at Zen Leaf in Canton. The retired 62-year-old said he's smoked for 42 years and recently began using gummies to sleep better. He thought the cannabis from a state-regulated dispensary would be safer and of better quality. Jordan Pleasant, 29, who lives within walking distance, said he's also been waiting for legalization. Not a fan of the "body high" of edibles, he was interested in products for smoking. However, he was wary of his employers' right to drug test and hoped that cannabis might eventually be excluded from testing statewide. "Hopefully, Ohio changes the laws," Pleasant said. Jordan Pleasant, of Canton, waits outside of Zen Leaf for Ohio's first day of recreational marijuana sales. The line outside Zen Leaf on Cleveland Avenue NW grew to about 20 people before it opened at 9 a.m., and customers continued to file into the lobby throughout the morning. They showed an ID before entering the sales floor, where newly installed kiosks displayed products and prices. A line forms inside of Zen Leaf dispensary in Canton, Tuesday, August 6, 2024. Darren Weiss, president of Verano which operates multiple Zen Leaf dispensaries in Ohio and also has a cultivation and processing facility in south Canton said products are the same as those available for the medical program since Ohio has not yet finalized recreational guidelines. Flower tends to be the most popular product in new adult-use markets, followed by pre-rolls, edibles and vape pens. Things that can be consumed discreetly and, particularly, folks who may not have a lot of experience with cannabis, they want to have something that isn't going to break the bank," Weiss said. While there's a lot of excitement around the start of recreational sales, he noted that dispensaries are not going anywhere. "There's something to be said for being, you know, in the front of the line of like, Black Friday at a Best Buy. But if that's not your speed, that's OK," he said. "We'll make sure that that we've got products waiting for you. Reach Kelly at 330-580-8323 or kelly.byer@cantonrep.com. This article originally appeared on The Repository: Customers celebrate first day of recreational cannabis sales in Canton Oklahoma leaders crow about parental empowerment, so why are they forcing the Bible on our kids? (Getty Images) This commentary originally appeared in the Oklahoma Voice. An old saying advises us not to talk about religion and politics in polite company. So why are Oklahoma Republicans insisting that we teach our children to be impolite? Yet, here we are attempting to require our children to talk about Christianity in public schools as our education officials lead a foolhardy charge to turn our public school classrooms into Sunday schools. Recently the State Department of Education unveiled guidelines that attempt to require schools incorporate the Bible into curriculum. Under the agencys vision, teachers would assign students to write essays extolling the books many virtues and its impact on Western culture and society. Theyll examine biblical-inspired art and analyze the books literary elements. I could envision a scenario where our children learn the parables, about Cain killing Abel or about the doom-and-gloom predictions of a pending apocalypse. Then, they come home armed with some very complex and serious questions about why siblings kill each other or if the world is coming to an end or spouting someone elses views on those issues. As a Christian and the parent of two children who attend Oklahoma public schools, I dont want their teachers deciding what they should know about religion. Thats my job. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Many versions of Christianity exist just like the myriad translations of the Bible. I dont want someone else deciding the morals theyre supposed to impart from biblical stories or to which version of Christianity they should adhere. The evangelical Bible Project reports publishers have created about 900 different versions of the Bible since the first known English translation was published in the 1500s. Which version of the Bible will our children be learning? And since the agency is also requiring physical copies of the U.S. Constitution, the Declaration of Independence and the Ten Commandments in all classrooms, which translation of the Ten Commandments will be in our classrooms? (To my knowledge, theres only one version of the Declaration of Independence, which seems to be a little out of place with holy writings from the Middle East.) Someone will certainly hang the irreverent Hillbilly Ten Commandments which take a lighthearted spin on the Old Testaments guide to living. Those commandments include No tellin tales or gossipin and Git your hide to Sunday meetin. Our leaders like to preach about parental empowerment when it comes to schools, which is commendable. This seems to do the opposite of that. Our state academic standards already require students to learn about religions impact on government and society, but local districts have the ability to set their own curriculum and determine how to teach it. But as a growing number of districts push back against his statewide Bible inclusion guidelines that seems to usurp that local control, State Superintendent Ryan Walters said he will ensure all districts comply, and warned that hell use every means to make sure of it. That sounds very ominous. And it sounds like were all going to be watching a terrible battle play out over an encroaching bid to push Christian nationalist philosophies down all our throats. If we open the door to requiring biblical instruction, you better believe every other recognized religion will demand our children be taught from their texts. The charge also seems to ignore the fact that a Pew Research Center study at one point found that over 2 in 10 Oklahomans dont identify as Christian. Im sure that divide has only widened as our population continues to grow. The State Department of Educations edict is essentially requiring us all Christian or not to put blind faith in a near-stranger to teach our children about something very personal. Were being required to trust someone who may not even believe in God or our own tenants of Christianity to weave in complex biblical lessons in an age-appropriate manner. I dont know about you, but I have no idea what religion my childrens educators practice, and I want to keep it that way. Parent-teacher conferences should focus on the three Rs, reading, riting and rithmatic. Theres a reason the slogan doesnt include a fourth R for religion. Our country wasnt founded on Christianity. Sure, many of our founders were likely Christian, but they took a downright practical approach when drafting our founding documents. The U.S. Constitution doesnt endorse a specific religion, and our Declaration of Independence states our rights come from Natures God, and their Creator. Im certain our founders vividly recalled that many of our countrys earliest immigrants fled to this country to escape religious persecution back at home. They wanted a world with the freedom to worship as they saw fit. Our wise founders recognized that and enshrined into our founding documents the right to worship as we pleased and created a stark divide between church and state. Some of our policymakers have tried to blur that line in recent years by erecting Ten Commandments monuments and approving publicly funding religious charter schools. But Oklahomans and our courts have pushed back. Judges have made it clear from the bench and voters both from the ballot box and in our state Constitution that religion has no place in our secular portions of government. Thats how it should be. Parents are the ones who should be empowered to decide what religion if any they want their children to learn. Children of differing faiths shouldnt be forced to learn using biblical texts in schools, just as children of Christian families shouldnt be required to use scripture from other religions. The Satanic Temple is using the fights over state-sponsored religion to point out that Oklahoma and others are kicking open the door for other ideologies to be forced on the public, too. In Arkansas, the group unveiled a statue of Baphomet a winged creature with the head of a goat after the state allowed a monument of the Ten Commandments to go up in Little Rock just to prove that point. If we open the door to requiring biblical instruction, you better believe every other recognized religion will demand our children be taught from their texts. Theres a reason the Bible isnt a mandated text in our schools. And, theres a reason nobody likes to discuss religion in polite company. Oklahoma Voice is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oklahoma Voice maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Janelle Stecklein for questions: info@oklahomavoice.com. Follow Oklahoma Voice on Facebook and X. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Oklahoma schools are still struggling after COVID, and after federal pandemic help OKLAHOMA CITY As national data shows the academic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over, Oklahoma districts report stubborn challenges that worsened during the global crisis. Leaders of local districts say students poor attendance and behavior have thrown up barriers to reaching or exceeding pre-pandemic levels of academic achievement. A national report shows the gap to pre-pandemic results widened during the 2023-24 school year, despite billions in public spending on recovery efforts. Test scores from 7.7 million U.S. students in grades 3-8 show the average student would need the equivalent of 4.8 extra months of instruction to catch up in reading and 4.4 additional months in math, according to the report from NWEA, a testing company and research center. NWEA administers standardized assessments called MAP to track students academic progress across the country, including in more than 100 Oklahoma school districts. More: When is the first day of school? Start dates for Oklahoma City metro area school districts The fact that federal pandemic aid will soon end only exacerbates concerns, the NWEA report states. Oklahoma schools received more than $2 billion and must spend whats left of it by Sept. 30. Instead of treating COVID recovery interventions as temporary crisis-mitigation tactics, we must make targeted academic supports, such as high-dosage tutoring and summer programming, a permanent part of our new normal, the reports authors, Karyn Lewis and Megan Kuhfeld, wrote. Student absenteeism a major roadblock for improving education in Oklahoma The full results from Oklahoma state tests taken in the spring arent yet available. Last year, only 27% of Oklahoma students scored at a proficient level on state tests for reading, math and science. In Lawton Public Schools, academic results havent recovered as quickly as the district wanted, Superintendent Kevin Hime said. The biggest barrier, he said, has been student absenteeism. We all know attendance is one of the things thats lagged since the pandemic, Hime said. Its been harder to get kids to come to school, believe it or not. Lawton has been working on finding those hooks that attract more students to school. Challenges schools faced since the pandemic have persisted in Oklahoma. Makerspace days when elementary children get to do hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering and math show strong attendance numbers, he said. Administrators even looked at the correlation between attendance rates and which meals are served in the cafeteria. The district also saw increased interest in its summer programs this year, Hime said. Instead of calling the program summer school, Lawton rebranded it as a summer camp and added more enrichment activities. Hime said he hopes better attendance, more parent engagement and making sure we put in as many minutes of reading and math as we can next school year will help close the gap to pre-pandemic achievement. Bartlesville Public Schools is working to shrink that gap, too, but the district realized it would have to address student behavior issues to do it, Superintendent Chuck McCauley said. More counselors needed to address behavioral issues Students are acting less mature than they did before the pandemic, especially among younger grades, he said. Thats why Bartlesville hired three more elementary school counselors to address behavioral problems and child trauma. The district plans to keep the extra counselors it hired, even after federal stimulus funds run out. McCauley said a 300-student increase in Bartlesvilles enrollment made it financially viable to retain the additional staff. In Tulsa Public Schools, district leaders report decreases in student suspensions and improvements in attendance. The district introduced extra tutoring sessions this year and registered 6,500 students for its summer programs as it tries to propel academic performance upward. Superintendent Ebony Johnson said attendance is a difficult metric to improve but a necessary one. About 45% of Tulsa students were chronically absent in 2023-24, meaning those students missed 10% or more of the school year, district leaders said at a June 27 meeting with the Oklahoma State Board of Education. More: With program ending, Oklahoma students are losing access to mental health care Johnson said thats an improvement of 2.6% from the year before. We have seen a decrease in chronic absenteeism, but were not celebrating yet because thats way too many students that are missing too much school, Johnson said during the state board meeting. The Tulsa district has leaned heavily on MAP tests from NWEA to help track student learning. Tulsa students took MAP assessments three times this school year, along with the spring state tests. The final spring MAP evaluation showed strong growth in reading among early elementary students, especially third graders, but results were more stagnant in upper elementary and middle school, district leaders have said. However, students still improved throughout the school year, even if the upward trajectory wasnt as steep in some grade levels as the district hoped, said Sean Berkstresser, Tulsas chief of strategy and innovation, during the state Board of Education meeting last month. Our students learned still, and we saw improvements, Berkstresser said. So, I want to make sure thats known. Youve seen whats in front of us with a lot of these data points. Theres a lot more to do. Oklahoma Voice is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oklahoma Voice maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Janelle Stecklein for questions:info@oklahomavoice.com. Follow Oklahoma Voice onFacebook andTwitter. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: As federal COVID relief ends, Oklahoma schools still struggling OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) On Monday, the Oklahoma Supreme Court denied a request for limited administrative stay by St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School, preventing the religious charter schools contract with the Statewide Charter School Board from moving forward. The decision come less than a week after Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond filed a notice with the Supreme Court, asking the justices to require the charter school board to either end the contract or face contempt of court charges. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Oklahoma AG calling on OK Supreme Court to put an end to what would be the nations first state-funded religious school Following the Supreme Courts decision, Drummond issued a letter to the SCSB stating that he expects the board to vote to rescind the contract with St. Isidore during next weeks meeting. Today, the Oklahoma Supreme Court denied St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual Schools Motion for Leave to File Reply and Motion for Limited Administrative Stay, Drummond says in a letter to the SCSB. For thirty-nine days, the Statewide Charter school Board has blatantly ignored the Oklahoma Supreme Courts writ of mandamus. I expect a vote on the recission to be on next weeks agenda. As the duly elected Attorney General of Oklahoma and the States chief law officer, you, as public officials under Oklahoma law, and immediately rescind the St. Isidore contract as ordered. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. Oklahoma turnpike bridge project will close a portion of Route 66 for about a year Joe Echelle, executive director of the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, talks about solar eclipse preparations on April 2. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice) OKLAHOMA CITY A small portion of Route 66 will close later this month and traffic will be diverted as officials replace a bridge on the Turner Turnpike in Wellston. Joe Echelle, OTA executive director, on Tuesday, outlined the plan for the governing board during its regular meeting. The action comes as officials are widening the Turner Turnpike. Its a challenging location to work in, he said. Its probably the last bridge that will be the worst bridge to replace on the Turner Turnpike. The bridge is 71 years old and an original Turner Turnpike bridge , said Lisa Shearer-Salim, an OTA spokesperson. The bridge replacement will cost about $48 million, she said. She said officials will close under a mile of Route 66 beginning about Aug. 21. The closure is expected to last about a year. Local traffic will be diverted onto some county roads. Traffic exiting the turnpike at that location will also be diverted. The bridge will be replaced with two new ones capable of handling traffic when the roadway is increased to six lanes from four, she said. During construction, traffic on the Turner Turnpike will remain open to two lanes in each direction, but motorists can expect significant lane shifts and possible night-time closures narrowing to one lane in each direction, according to the OTA. More than 31,000 vehicles a day on average travel that section of the Turner Turnpike, according to the OTA. The section of Route 66, dubbed the Mother Road, is expected to be reopened before the centennial celebration in 2026, she said. The 2,448-mile roadway spans eight states and connects California to Illinois. Trait Thompson, Oklahoma Historical Society executive director, sits on a state and a federal panel charged with planning activities to celebrate the centennial. No official state projects have been selected yet, he said, adding that fundraising is planned. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST New Redfin Survey Reveals More Than A Quarter Of Homebuyers Prioritize Space And Lower Cost Of Living Over Safety Concerns In a housing market marred by soaring prices, high mortgage rates, and limited inventory, a survey from Redfin suggests that some prospective homeowners are now willing to make compromises to secure an affordable property. The survey, conducted in February, found that while 32.4% of respondents were likely to move within the next year to gain more space, 26.4% said they are moving to capture lower living costs. Some of those movers are foregoing personal safety for those lower living costs. Don't Miss: The survey found that roughly 17% of all house hunters are willing to compromise on personal safety to afford a home. The willingness to compromise on safety was more apparent among younger generations. Nearly a quarter of Gen Z respondents (23.7%) said they would consider living in a less safe area to find a home within their budget, compared to 18.1% of millennials and 17.5% of Gen Xers. In contrast, just 5.5% of baby boomers expressed a similar willingness. Elijah de la Campa, a senior economist at Redfin, attributes it to the economic realities facing young Americans. Younger generations have come of age during a housing supply crunch, where prices are at all-time highs, de la Campa said. Couple that with them earning less relative to older generations and you can see why they are willing to make more serious sacrifices to find a home they can afford. See Also: Will the surge continue or decline on real estate prices? People are finding out about risk-free real estate investing that lets you cash out whenever you want. Beyond safety, prospective buyers indicated a willingness to compromise on various amenities and location factors. Access to health care services topped the list, with 41% of respondents saying they would trade proximity to their doctor or hospital for a more affordable home. Thirty-six percent said they would give up easy access to restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. Trending: Can you guess which type of investments Morgan Stanley says will reach $2.7 trillion by 2027? It even offers up to 20% APY potential to accredited investors up to $300 back in bonus for new users. Perhaps most notably, more than a quarter of respondents (26%) said they would consider sacrificing access to highly-rated schools for affordability. That finding points to many families difficult choices in balancing educational opportunities with housing costs. Story continues The survey also highlighted a willingness to compromise on commute times and work-from-home arrangements. About 34% of respondents said they would accept a longer commute for a more affordable home, while 27% would consider giving up dedicated space to work from home. See Also: Want to invest in homes? $100 is enough on this platform that lets you cash out whenever you want. The findings come at a time when the U.S. housing market grapples with affordability issues. Despite recent cooling in some markets, home prices remain historically high, outpacing wage growth in many areas. As the housing affordability crisis persists, the Redfin survey suggests that many Americans are reassessing their priorities and considering compromises they might have once deemed unthinkable. While the willingness to make the trade-offs speaks to the adaptability of American homebuyers, it raises questions about the long-term consequences of a housing market that increasingly forces difficult choices on those seeking homeownership. Read Next: "ACTIVE INVESTORS' SECRET WEAPON" Supercharge Your Stock Market Game with the #1 "news & everything else" trading tool: Benzinga Pro - Click here to start Your 14-Day Trial Now! Get the latest stock analysis from Benzinga? This article New Redfin Survey Reveals More Than A Quarter Of Homebuyers Prioritize Space And Lower Cost Of Living Over Safety Concerns originally appeared on Benzinga.com 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. JEFFERSON, S.D. (KCAU) Jefferson Beer Supply is set to hold its own Oktoberfest celebration. The brewery, located at 202 Main Street in Jefferson, South Dakota, will hold the German-themed event on Sep. 21 from noon to 6 p.m. They said in a release that this years edition looks to be bigger and better than ever. Stevie Ray Vaughan cover band coming to Hard Rock Headlining the celebration is the brand-new Oktoberfest Run/Walk. People will be able to participate in the 1.5 mile walk, 5k run, or 10k run. Proceeds will go towards nonprofit Elk Point Fore the Cure to help people affected by cancer. In addition, attendees can expect to see typical Oktoberfest fare, such as German cuisine (including schnitzel and smash burgers), German songs sung by the Siouxland Beer Choir, and games such as hammerschlagen and straw bale throwing. To register for the Run/Walk, click here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. Police release name of man killed in double shooting on Bishop Street A 28-year-old man is dead after a double shooting on Monday. Cincinnati police said officers were dispatched to the 3200 block of Bishop Street at about 5 p.m. Bishop Street is in the CUF, an amalgam of Clifton Heights, University Heights and Fairview. Officers found Deevon Graves in the back of a vehicle. Though Cincinnati Fire Department personnel attempted life-saving measures, Graves died, police said. Another male with gunshot injuries was taken to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center by the fire department. That victim underwent surgery and is in stable condition, according to police. His name and age have not been released Police have not said what led up to the shooting or released any suspect information. The University of Cincinnati sent a campus alert about the shooting at around 5 p.m. The school sent an all-clear message at around 5:30 p.m. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Cincinnati Police Department's Homicide Unit at 513-352-3542. This embedded content is not available in your region. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Police release name of man killed in double shooting on Bishop Street One detained after car crashes into bus in Fresno, police say FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) A driver was detained after a car crashed into the back of a Fresno bus in north Fresno on Monday. According to investigators, a sedan rear-ended a FAX bus at around 1:30 p.m. at the intersection of Blackstone and Herndon avenues. Police say the sedan driver walked away from the accident scene and was later detained. The driver will be evaluated for a DUI. Sedan crash into FAX bus The driver of the bus went to the hospital with complaints of pain. There was one other passenger on the bus during the incident but they were not injured, according to officials. The person detained was not officially identified. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47. (FOX40.COM) One person was injured in a shooting in Sacramento Tuesday morning, the Sacramento Police Department said. Just before noon, police say they arrested a 16-year-old male believed to be connected to the shooting. According to police, a man was shot around 5:30 a.m. on Fruitridge Road near Wallace Ave. and taken to the hospital. Police said their condition was unknown. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. One injured when semi rolls over in Spartanburg Co. SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) One person was injured Tuesday morning when a semi truck overturned on Business 85. According to the state highway patrol, the semi overturned at exit 5A, and one person was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. The cause of the wreck is still under investigation. While crews are working at the scene, a detour has been established and traffic bypassing the area on 585 Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call the suicide prevention hotline at 988. National Alliance on Mental Illness Utah: namiut.org WEST HAVEN, Utah (ABC4) One person was shot and killed by police in a tragic incident in West Haven on Monday. Lt. Terance Lavely with the Weber County Sheriffs Office said deputies responded to an apartment complex in the area of 2200 South and 1100 West on Aug. 5. A concerned family member had called dispatch reporting the individual was possibly under the influence of drugs, acting erratically, and threatening self-harm. Deputies reported finding a chaotic scene upon arrival and began talking with the individual, who has not been publicly identified. According to Lavely, the person was in possession of a weapon with children inside the residence. Details on the incident are limited, however, Lavely said the situation escalated and two Weber County Sheriffs Office deputies opened fire. The individual was struck and sustained fatal injuries. They were pronounced dead on the scene by medical personnel. Lt. Lavely said deputies were able to safely remove everyone from the apartment without any further injury. No deputies were reportedly injured in the shooting. The critical incident protocol has been activated with the Weber County Attorneys Office leading the investigation. The two deputies who fired their guns have been placed on leave, pending the investigation. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and emphasize the availability of resources for anyone struggling with thoughts of self-harm, said Lt. Lavely. Those struggling with thoughts of suicide may call or text 988 at any time for free and confidential support. The 988 hotline also offers support through an online chat available through the hotlines website. Additional resources can be found through the Utah Suicide Prevention Coalition. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. One of two homeless men stabbed in the face in Sacramento attack dies two days later One of two homeless men stabbed in the face in an attack early Sunday in Sacramento died Tuesday morning in a hospital after succumbing to his injuries, authorities said. Sgt. Amar Gandhi, a spokesman for the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office, said the homeless man in his 30s who had been listed in critical condition died at the hospital. The Sacramento County Coroners Office will release the mans name and age after his family has been notified. The stabbing was reported about 4 a.m. Sunday in the area near El Camino and Howe avenues, according to the Sheriffs Office. A homeless man in his 60s called 911 to report hed been stabbed in the face. Sheriffs officials said deputies arrived at the scene and found the other stabbing victim, the homeless man in his 30s, who was unresponsive. The deputies began administering first aid and resuscitated him, before medics arrived and took both wounded men to a hospital. On Tuesday morning, Gandhi said the homeless man in his 60s wounded in Sundays stabbing remained at the hospital receiving medical treatment. Hes expected to survive his injuries. The Sheriffs Office has not released any suspect description or announced any arrests in connection with the stabbing. Investigators asked anyone with relevant information about this stabbing to call the Sheriffs Office at 916-874-5115. Online calls for violence, particularly a modern-day civil war, skyrocketed following the attempted assassination of former President Trump, domestic extremism experts said Tuesday. Moonshot, a research company that monitors online extremism, said it tracked 1,599 calls for a civil war a 633 percent increase from a normal day the day after the July 13 shooting in Pennsylvania, which killed one Trump rallygoer and injured two others, in addition to grazing the former president. CBS News was the first to report Moonshots research. The calls were observed across multiple online platforms, including Reddit, YouTube, 4chan and some far-right discussion sites, CBS reported. Moonshot also tracked 2,051 specific threats or encouragements to violence online in the 24 hours after the shooting, a figure that is more than double the average volume of daily threats, a company spokesperson told The Hill. The uptick in online calls is fairly typical of online discourse in spaces that glorify violence, Elizabeth Neumann, chief strategy officer for Moonshot, told CBS. The fact is, there is an online ecosystem out there working day in, day out to encourage violence of all kinds, from political civil war to mindless school shootings. The FBI has spent the past few weeks combing through the online history of the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, in an effort to determine a precise motive. In doing so, authorities found Crooks appeared to post concerning content, including the embrace of political violence, in the years leading up to the assassination attempt. Authorities discovered a social media account which is believed to be associated with the shooter, in about the 2019, 2020 timeframe, FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate said during a joint hearing of the Senate Judiciary and Homeland Security committees last week. There were over 700 comments posted from this account. Some of these comments, if ultimately attributable to the shooter, appear to reflect antisemitic and anti-immigration themes, espouse political violence, and are extreme in nature, Abbate said. FBI Director Christopher Wray told a House committee last month Crooks is believed to have conducted a Google search one week before the shooting, asking, How far away was Oswald from Kennedy, in a reference to Lee Harvey Oswald, the shooter who killed President John F. Kennedy on Nov. 22, 1963, in Dallas. The increase in calls for violence after last months shooting underscores a wider trend that mass violence is increasingly normalized and valorized on online spaces, Moonshot said. Releasing a report last month with Everytown for Gun Safety, Moonshot said it found an ecosystem amplifying mass shootings is thriving online, while a large portion of the ecosystem thinks of past perpetrators as heroes. This is worrying because we know those that go on to perpetrate mass violence have often valorized previous killers, the research company wrote. The Secret Service has faced massive backlash over its event preparation and response to the shooting, with the fallout prompting Director Kimberly Cheatle to resign after a disastrous appearance before Congress to review the incident. The Justice Department, through the FBI, is investigating the shooting, and Attorney General Merrick Garland said it was extremely alarming that Crooks was able to get so close to Trump during the rally. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Opening of Trump campaign office in Georgia descends into chaos with fist fight A fight broke out at the opening of a Trump campaign office in Valdosta, Georgia, police have said. The incident took place last week when State Representative John LaHood said he was approached by activist Sam Carnline after speaking at the event, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Carnline was reportedly wearing a T-shirt calling for paper ballots to be used instead of the current electronic system. The system has come under scrutiny from conservatives making baseless claims of fraud after former President Donald Trump lost Georgia in 2020 by fewer than 12,000 votes. Carnline said the election-related measures supported by LaHood were not strong enough. LaHood told the paper that he and Carnline had a passionate discussion, but that LaHood departed after his wife approached them. Carnline has continued to claim the election was stolen from Trump despite several investigations and recounts confirming that Trump lost Georgia. Thats when things got out of control. Republican aide Brandon Phillips reportedly spat at Carnline, an allegation Phillips denies, according to reports. Phillips is a top advisor to Republican congressman Mike Collins. An opening of a Trump campaign office in Georgia descended into chaos with a fist fight, according to reports. (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Carnline told the Journal-Constitution that Phillips stepped in between him and LaHood and that he told Carnline to quit bothering the state representative. When Carnline didnt step back, he said Phillips began making insults against his family. I probably pointed at him and told him to get away from me. He immediately spit in my face. And at that point, I pushed him and shoved him as hard as I could, Carnline told the paper. He jumped back up. I cocked my fist back and was intending to hit him, but I might have just glanced his shoulder. Then people talked me down. But he deserved it, he added. Lahood and others attending the event say they saw Carnline punch or shove Phillips at least two times. The police account was slightly different than the witnesses. Brandon Phillips got in the middle of the conversation because he didnt like the questions he was asking, police stated regarding Carnline, according to the paper. Words were exchanged between he and Brandon, because he was upset that Brandon spit in his face. I informed Brandon that he instigated the incident by spitting on Carnline, the officer wrote. Both parties agreed to separate and go their separate ways with no further law enforcement action needed. No charges were filed. Phillips has rejected the spitting allegation, claiming that Carnline pushed him to the ground. The dispute arose after a discussion over Georgias election systems. Trump has claimed that the election in Georgia was stolen from him in 2020, costing him the presidency. (EPA) Phillips told the Journal-Constitution that he stepped in because he didnt want the fight to escalate. They say politics can be a contact sport, and sometimes it is, Phillips told the outlet. I certainly dont mind defending any volunteers or officials who are trying to contribute in a positive way toward a Trump victory from outside agitators with the opposite agenda, he added. Longtime Republican activist Dennis Futch told the paper that he didnt witness Phillips spit at Carnline, but if it happened it was unintentional as they were both shouting at the time. He added that he saw Carnline shove or hit Phillips two times. Im proud of Brandon because Brandon didnt lay one finger on Sam Carnline. It wasnt a fight. This was Sam trying to be a bully, Futch told the outlet. The altercation was broken up by Chas Cannon, a state representative and Army Veteran. He told the paper that he didnt see Phillip spit at anyone but added that Carnline tried to shove Phillips on several occasions. It was a heated conversation, and I didnt think it was appropriate at an event like that. They were arguing with one another, and they went their separate ways, Cannon told the Journal-Constitution. There were more people there trying to de-escalate the fighting than promote it. It was uncomfortably intense, but thankfully it didnt escalate any further, LaHood told the paper. This was just a minor black eye, but it didnt define the event. Most people there didnt even know it happened. (Bloomberg) -- SK Hynix Inc. is set to receive an initial $450 million in US grants and $500 million in loans to build an advanced chip packaging and research facility in Indiana, a project that will bolster US capacity for a critical part of the artificial intelligence supply chain. Most Read from Bloomberg The $3.87 billion site will package high-bandwidth memory chips for use with AI chipmakers such as Nvidia Corp., an area that the Korean company dominates. SK Hynix is expected to ship its own memory chips from South Korea to its US facility, according to a Commerce Department official who requested anonymity to brief reporters ahead of the announcement. That site is expected to create around 1,000 jobs. In addition to grants and loans, SK Hynix expects to benefit from a 25% tax credit, like other firms building in the US. SK Hynix is intent on expanding its lead over Samsung Electronics Co. and Micron Technology Inc. in the supply of HBM chips to Nvidia, an edge thats helped double its market value since the end of 2022. Packaging, the process of encasing chips and preparing them to be connected to devices, has emerged as a key arena in the US-China technological conflict. The award marks the 15th preliminary agreement under the 2022 Chips and Science Act, which set aside $39 billion in grants plus $75 billion in loans and guarantees, and 25% tax credits to revitalize the American chip industry after decades of production shifting abroad. As of Tuesday, the Biden administration has announced subsidies for all five of the worlds top chip manufacturers: SK Hynix, Samsung, Micron, Intel Corp. and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Other countries with their own semiconductor funding programs have secured investments from at most two of those firms. Beyond Nvidia, SK Hynixs major clients include Apple Inc., Microsoft Corp. and Alphabet Inc. SK Group originally said it would invest as much as $15 billion in US packaging and other research projects. When the firm unveiled their Indiana site, they said the facility marked part of that total commitment. In addition to Indiana, the Korean company considered locating its first US facility in Arizona, a state thats won major investments from both Intel and TSMC. Another packaging company, Amkor Technology Inc., is now building a site there. Story continues Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Shan Wu is a former federal prosecutor who served as counsel to Attorney General Janet Reno As part of promoting his new book, Overruled, in which he criticizes excessive government regulation, Justice Neil Gorsuch was asked on Fox News about his views of the proposed reforms to the Supreme Court proposed by President Biden. In response, Gorsuch warned Americans to be careful about making changes to the judiciary. We should take that warning seriously, not because reforms to the Supreme Court threaten an independent judiciary, but because the fact that Gorsuch felt free to issue it shows the real dangers of an unchecked Supreme Court. Neil Gorsuch Runs to Fox News to Warn Biden: Be Careful Two disclosures here. As I have previously stated, I once interviewed for a judicial clerkship with Justice Thomas when he was still on the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. I had been taken with his personal story of accomplishment and found him to be personable and charismatic. Justice Gorsuch and I once worked at the same law firm where I found him to be an extremely kind-hearted colleague and an exceptionally sharp legal mind and writer. These two justices are a generation apart and have very different histories. For one thing, Thomas was literally silent during oral arguments for a decade before breaking his silence with a joke, followed by another year of silence. Gorsuch, has been an aggressive questioner from the start, perhaps reflecting his time in private practice as a civil litigator. But whatever their difference in the courtroom, their actions outside the courtroom reflect a troubling state of mind among the justicesmost notably the conservative ones. Criticism of Justice Gorsuchs remarks were immediate and ran the spectrum of podcast host Jack Hopkins telling Gorsuch he should be careful about his arrogance, and former Justice Department official Harry Litman questioning why Gorsuch was even giving an interview on Fox at all. Both criticisms illustrate the mindset of the conservative justices who make up the majority on the high court. Lets start with the fact that Gorsuchs book is about his criticism of federal agencies, and that that very issue came before him this term as he joined in the decision striking down the deference given to federal agency expertise that had stood since 1984. U.S. Supreme Court nominee judge Neil Gorsuch testifies at his Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., March 20, 2017. Jim Bourg/Reuters Gorsuch apparently feels free to express his views about federal agencies in writing, for a purported half-million dollar advance, despite hearing that very issue as a sitting justice. Gorsuchs mind-set on what he can say is also shown in the supposed caveat he gave before delivering his warning about the proposed Supreme Court reforms. Said Gorsuch: Im not going to get into what is now a political issue during a presidential election year. I dont think that would be helpful. His statement is remarkably tone-deaf on the fact that his mere characterization of the proposed reforms as a political issue is a political statement. One also wonders when the justice believes it would be helpful for a Supreme Court justice to weigh in on political issues. Justice Samuel Alito may provide some guidance on that given his shaking his head at President Obama during a State of the Union address and mouthing at the president not true, and his apparent passivity in allowing his wife to fly flags symbolizing sympathy with the extreme right at his houses. Alito also gives interviews and even writes opinion pieces for the Wall Street Journal expressing his conservative views. Demonstrators rally outside the U.S. Supreme Court as justices hear oral arguments in a bid by President Joe Biden's administration to preserve broad access to the abortion pill, in Washington, U.S., March 26, 2024. Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters Another reminder of the apparent we are untouchable mindset of the conservative justices is the torrent of reveals about Justice Clarence Thomass acceptance of extraordinarily lavish gifts and benefits from billionaire Harlan Crow. Mostly, Thomas has failed to report these on his financial disclosures or amended his disclosures after exposure by the press. Nor did he see any need to recuse himself from cases involving the Jan 6 election interference issues despite his wife expressing support for questioning the validity of the 2020 election results. The absolute nature of the justices power is not set in the Constitution, but rather flows from the failure of other branches of government as well as their own sense of grandeur. The failed financial disclosures of Justice Thomas could be investigated by both the Justice Department as well as Congress (Congress has made efforts about Thomas and Alito), and legislation could be passed to impose an enforceable code of ethics upon the high court so that they would not self-police. While Justice Gorsuch may truly believe that the American people should be warned that changes to the federal judiciary may affect its independence, its his confident public expression of his views on a matter that is almost surely going to come before him if any reform is enacted that serves as the real warning. Its warning that the sense of absolute power is not limited to only one justice but several. Moreover, its not a generational thing. Justice Thomas was appointed in 1991this October will mark his 33rd year as a sitting justice making him only three years short of the longevity record held by Justice William O. Douglas whose reign lasted 36 hears and spanned World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Thomas is 76 now. Justice Alito is 74, and has served on the high court since 2006. In contrast, Gorsuch, like his Young Turk colleagues Amy Coney Barrett and Brett Kavanaugh, is in his fifties. This group of three will continue to shape American law and society for a generation. Thats too long. Whatever the personal characteristics of individual justice may be, Americans would do well to remember the adage often attributed to the 19th Century English historian Lord Acton who is believed to have said: Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Gorsuchs warning reflects the consequences of failing to check the power of the Supreme Court. That is on us. We cannot depend on the justices to reign in themselves. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Russias arms industry and its export capabilities have long been, as Russian President Vladimir Putin put it, a point of national pride. Even after launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia claims to be able to meet growing domestic demand and continue arms exports. State-sponsored propaganda promotes the prowess of Russias military-industrial complex to reassure both domestic and international audiences of Russias ability to not only sustain its war effort in Ukraine but also further leverage its arms sales for geopolitical influence. These statements are seemingly designed to project confidence that Russia can outlast the West. At the same time, though, these messages starkly contrast with more pessimistic assessments appearing in both international and Russian media. Russian political and military leadership consistently reports on the successes in the import substitution programs and new developments that improve the existing military systems based on real-life combat experience. Throughout 2023 and into early 2024, the Russian state-run arms exporter Rosoboronexport reported signing new contracts, noting stable international interest in Russian weaponry and government approvals of new systems for export. Reports of declining arms sales, such as the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute 2023 estimates, are dismissed as faulty, with officials claiming that not all sales are disclosed due to sanctions. Even acknowledged declines are portrayed as temporary setbacks, which, it is implied, will be followed by another boost in exports after the war. Read also: Opinion: What a Trump presidency could look like for Ukraine A recent shake-up of Russian military leadership, including the dismissal of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and his deputies and the subsequent series of arrests of Russian military leaders on corruption charges, might signal dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs at the highest level. For the second year in a row, Russias traditional Victory Day parade featured only a limited display of military might. Russian former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu salutes soldiers as he is driven along Red Square during the military parade in central Moscow, Russia on May 9, 2024. (Alexander Nemenov/AFP via Getty Images) North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) and Russian President Vladimir Putin attend a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea on June 19, 2024. (Gavriil Grigorov/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Deepening ties with North Korea, highlighted by Putins unusual visit to Pyongyang, is believed to be an effort to replenish Russias depleted arsenal. Reports on Russias increasing reliance on outdated weaponry pinpoint its struggles with meeting even domestic demand. Some military systems Russia uses in Ukraine have been criticized for their poor performance. Russias credibility has been questioned as it failed to live up to the promise of producing advanced military systems, such as the Su-75 Checkmate or MiG-35. The nation, once a major arms exporter, is now reportedly seeking to secretly buy back weapons from former customers as well as purchase second-hand Western machinery from China. Claims of successful import substitution are harder to maintain, given the evident struggles to implement it in sectors such as civilian aviation, where the delivery schedules are repeatedly shifted. Read also: Opinion: Russian Kh-101 missile with US components continues killing Ukrainians en masse Pessimistic assessments of Russias arms industry have started to surface even within tightly controlled Russian media. Experts in Russia acknowledge difficulties with maintaining relationships with historical recipients of Russian weapons. Prioritizing domestic needs, Russia reportedly failed to deliver arms to long-standing customers such as India and Armenia. Some countries are weighing the benefits of maintaining their ties with Russia against the financial and reputational costs of continuing to do business there. China and India are diversifying their arms purchases away from Russia. Moreover, China is perceived as seeking to improve its relations with the U.S., which is seen as a major blow to Russia-China cooperation. Despite a history of cooperation and presumed continued interest and loyalty, countries like Vietnam and Algeria are diversifying their suppliers and negotiating arms transfers with other countries, such as Turkey. Russia is fighting to save these relationships, employing significant diplomatic efforts, including a notable visit by Putin to Vietnam. But its becoming a hard sell. Egypt is allegedly conceding to persuasion from the U.S. and considering other partnerships. Similar trends are observed in even former Soviet republics. Kazakhstan, where Russian arms constituted over 90 percent of total imports from 2019 to 2023, has been looking for new arms suppliers to diversify its acquisitions. While some Russian commentators remain hopeful about continued military-technical cooperation, citing, in particular, Kazakhstans decision not to purchase Rafale fighter jets from France, Russian media repeatedly accuses Kazakh leaders of covertly supporting Ukraine and seeking international backing to distance itself from Russia. Experts inside Russia recognize these worrying trends. They warn of long-term consequences, including challenges in seeking to win back lost customers. Theyve also criticized Russias attempts to keep India and China as customers by using technology transfers, such as licensing the production of Russian-designed fighters or tanks locally. Some Russian publications argue that India and China will use Russian developments to enhance their own military industries at Russias expense. As the Russian government admits the shortage of 160,000 workers in military factories, experts in Russia also predict a loss of up to 40 percent of Russias research and engineering capabilities due to reduced arms sales revenue. Overall, Russia is still likely doing better than anticipated in some critical ways, such as in much-needed artillery shell production. and has found ways to close some other production gaps. But with NATO intensifying support for Ukraine, Russia may not be able to indefinitely sustain the losses of material. In this war of attrition, one of these issues might ultimately become a straw that will break Russias back. Editors Note: The opinions expressed in the op-ed section are those of the authors and do not purport to reflect the views of the Kyiv Independent. Read also: Opinion: The path to peace in Europe Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Orange County is demanding that a nonprofit group linked to a county supervisor's daughter return millions of dollars awarded in county contracts. The demand, outlined in letters issued to the nonprofit in late July, comes after Viet America Society failed to prove to auditors and the county how it spent the money, or that it had done the work it was hired to do: feeding needy seniors during the pandemic. In the letters reviewed by the Los Angeles Times, Orange County told the group to return $2.2 million by Aug. 26 after the organization missed a June deadline to complete an audit of its work and expenditures. The money originally came to the county as federal COVID-19 relief funds. An attorney for the nonprofit, Sterling Scott Winchell, said it wasn't clear how VAS would respond to the county's demand for reimbursement. "It was a surprise that they did that," Winchell said. "This was kind of a real power play on the part of the county, and it came out of nowhere. And I think it was unnecessary." Read more: Sell-off on Wall Street: Why it is happening and what it says about the economy The county's move came days after the company VAS hired to do the audit, Pun Group, told county officials during a meeting that the nonprofit "would not be able to provide sufficient information to properly complete the audit," according to the letters. Pun Group's senior auditor told the county during the meeting July 23 that VAS "lacked internal controls, did not follow federal uniform guidelines," and it did not have the necessary records to assemble an audit trail. The senior auditor also told the county that Pun's forthcoming audit report was expected to outline a lack of records and "internal control failures." But the audit report was not completed, and the day after the meeting, VAS terminated its contract with Pun Group. "VAS's decision to terminate the Pun Group undermines the County's extensive efforts to determine VAS's performance under the terms of the Contract," reads one of the letters from the county, addressed to VAS Chief Executive Peter Pham and Winchell. "The expenditures are hereby determined to be disallowed and are subject to reimbursement to the County." Pham did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The letters demand the group reimburse the county nearly $2 million for payments made as part of a contract for fiscal year 2021-22, as well as $200,000 for payments made as part of a second contract from fiscal year 2020-21. Read more: California COVID surge is surprisingly stronger, longer-lasting than experts had expected The county's demand that VAS return money was first reported by LAist. The news organization has also reported Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do directed or voted to direct as much as $13.5 million to the nonprofit without disclosing that his 22-year-old daughter, Rhiannon Do, was connected to the group. Do's failure to disclose his daughter's role in the group is not against the law. A bill that would forbid the practice of local officials voting on contracts that would benefit family members is currently being considered by state legislators. Rhiannon Do had at one point been listed as an officer on government filings for the organization, and had reportedly signed a contract that listed her as president. Rhiannon Do could not be reached for comment. Andrew Do did not immediately return requests for comment. Winchell told The Times in an interview Monday that Do's daughter had not had a leading role in the organization. "She was just working there doing meal plans," he said, but added that the college student had "signed some documents on behalf of the company." He said she left the group sometime before February this year. Winchell said VAS is weighing its options. "The county doesn't seem to be interested in talking to us," he said. Read more: Luxury bags and a mini-fridge stuffed with cash: Orange County schools embezzler is going to prison Winchell confirmed Pun Group's contract was terminated after the July 23 meeting with the county and VAS officials, but called it a mutual decision. He said that VAS officials were concerned about how Pun Group described the status of the audit, and that Pun Group officials were concerned about their ability to maintain independence. According to the letters, county officials had raised concerns not just about records VAS had failed to provide the county but also about questionable transactions in documents that were provided. General ledgers from May 2021 to May 2022, for example, "included unexplained transactions that raise concerns of potential commingling of funds and questionable costs." The county also alleges performance reports submitted by VAS were "revised multiple times and the credibility of the reports submitted are questionable." At one point, the county alleges in the letters, VAS officials reported they were providing 20,000 meals per month, but later revised the number to 10,000 meals a month without documenting who participated in or dropped out of the program. In another instance, the county alleges that it received from VAS a list of 900 participants in the program and checked a sample of 300 names. Only 49 people, or 16% of the sample, confirmed they were taking part in the program. The county also found duplicated participants and others who could not be confirmed. "Performance standards, budget summary, and deliver reports could not be confirmed," one of the letters reads. Read more: Should L.A. County expand to nine supervisors? Voters may decide in November Winchell said there have been concerns about how VAS maintained its records but disputed the county's characterization in its letters. "The documentation could have been better," he said. He said VAS hired another local company after Pun Group was terminated to audit its financial records, and it plans to share the results of that audit in about two weeks. He declined to share the name of the company that was hired. He said he did not know if VAS had notified the county about the new company, or if VAS had contacted the county after the letters were delivered. When asked how this new company would be able to complete an audit in four weeks that Pun Group couldn't finish in three months, he said he was unfamiliar with how the new company would proceed. He said he was not sure if the new company had the same concerns about the lack of documentation that Pun Group had. The company could continue the work where Pun Group left off, or start anew, he said. Winchell said VAS officials were unaware of the "intense accounting" that would be required from their work, and said county officials had "shared blame" for their lack of oversight of the work. "The county sat on its hands for several years and all of a sudden decided their hair is on fire," he said. "If this was so important, they would have asked, 'Where is this?' and 'Where is this?'" Read more: Laguna Beach woman who told beachgoers to 'get out of here!' reportedly targeted by Coastal Commission He said his clients were not aware of the federal requirements they were expected to maintain, but conceded the requirements were outlined in the contract with the county. "They're service people that didn't have counsel, didn't have accountants and weren't really told by the county what it would have entailed," he said. He also dismissed concerns about Do's role directing county money to an organization linked to his daughter, calling her part minor. VAS will make a decision on what to do after the audit is completed, he said. Despite the concerns about documentation, he said the organization did the work it was paid to do. "In theory they can pay it back," Winchell said. "Whether they're going to is another story." Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Surely we have not yet seen the end of divisive rhetoric or of twist and turns on the national political scene, but one can hope weve seen the end of political violence, a guest columnist writes. Recent political developments in the United States have been momentous and unsettling. The attempted assassination of former President Donald J. Trump, which resulted in two deaths those of a spectator and the perpetrator, as well as a minor injury to Trump, put the nation on edge. President Joe Bidens relinquishing his candidacy for a second term has led to Vice President Kamala Harris becoming his heir apparent. More: The threat of an assassination was made real. We must all agree democracy is our goal | Opinion After the attempt on Trumps life, Republicans called for a dialing down of heated and hateful political rhetoric. In a private call with donors, President Biden made a comment about time to put Trump in a bull's-eye, which he later admitted was a mistake. Trump has himself used disrespectful and hateful speech in the past, and in a speech in 2023 he called leftists vermin. At the Republican National Convention, vitriol was still on display, for example, in a speech by Sen. Ted Cruz in which he referred to unauthorized immigration as an invasion. Even Trump, who began his acceptance speech by calling for national unity, descended into hateful name-calling and false claims before concluding. Surely we have not yet seen the end of divisive rhetoric or of twist and turns on the national political scene. One can hope weve seen the end of political violence. How can ordinary citizens navigate the uncertainty, the changes, the heated language and the emotional rollercoasters? For one thing, it is up to each person to remain calm and civil to others during the next few months. It is up to each person to maintain their trust in and commitment to democracy, to contribute as best they can, to vote, to be as inclusive as possible in their dealings with others and to avoid perpetuating the divisiveness that threatens our nation. More: Nancy Snow: 'Better Conversations' can help bridge divides, build empathy, promote civility This is no mean feat, but we have words and examples to live by. When Abraham Lincoln took his oath of office on March 4, 1861, seven states had already seceded from the union to form the Confederate States of America. In his first inaugural address, Lincoln opted for reconciliation. He said: I am loath to close. We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature. Today, the better angels of our nature again call us to unity, not discord; to civility, not hatred; to renewed, if frayed, bonds of affection. This moment in time could be the breaking of America, or it could be the making of a new way forward. Let hateful political speech give way to sincere calls for unity and peace. Nancy E. Snow Nancy E. Snow is a professor of philosophy at the University of Kansas. She formerly was a philosophy professor at the University of Oklahoma and director of the Institute for the Study of Human Flourishing. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Trump's assassination attempt, Biden bowing out a lot to unpack A helicopter drops flame retardant on the Cow Valley Fire in eastern Oregon on July 12, 2024. (Matt Fisher of Umatilla Task Force/Northwest Interagency Coordination Center) Gov. Tina Kotek is seeking federal relief for farmers and ranchers in two-thirds of Oregon counties impacted by wildfires and smoke this summer, with the potential to add more counties to the list. Kotek first wrote to Tom Vilsack, head of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, on July 31, asking for support for crop and livestock farmers who are grappling with the effects of dozens of fires that have burned more than 1.3 million acres this summer. In the days following, Oregons congressional delegation and Oregon House Republicans also wrote to Vilsack backing up the Democratic governors requests. Oregon is currently grappling with severe wildfires that have ravaged our communities, working lands and natural resources. The scale and intensity of these fires demand immediate federal intervention to aid in our states recovery efforts, Oregons House Republicans wrote. Representatives from the U.S. Department of Agriculture did not respond to questions and requests for comment Tuesday. In her letter, Kotek asked Vilsack for three things. First, to declare a disaster for 23 of Oregons 36 counties, allowing farmers and ranchers to apply for special USDA loans and financial assistance programs. Next, she asked for Vilsack to coordinate with the head of the U.S. Forest Service, Randy Moore, to authorize emergency leniency on federal grazing areas, allowing ranchers flexibility about where and when they can graze to accommodate disruptions from wildfires. Matt McElligott, president of the Oregon Cattlemens Association, asked Kotek to further extend her request for aid to the U.S. Department of the Interior, which oversees the Bureau of Land Management. He asked that she request the agency open up any vacant or retired grazing permits so ranchers can move some of their cattle onto the public land. Kotek wrote to the agencys leader, Deb Haaland, requesting assistance Tuesday. You know, theres over a million acres that have burned, and much of it is rangeland. So those cattle that made it through the fire and got moved off have to have a place to go, he said McElligott said he spoke with a rancher who sold off most of his cattle due to the wildfires. When you lose all of your grazing ground, youve got to find other grazing ground or sell your cattle, he said. This isnt just a right-now problem. When all of your grazing ground burns up, you have no fall feed, you have no winter feed, and you really dont have any spring feed, because you have to let that grass regrow its roots. The last request from Kotek was for Vilsack and Moore to waive rules that require ranchers supply certified weed free hay and feed crops for their animals. Feed crops must still be weed free, according to Koteks letter, but waiving the requirement that the feed be certified weed-free will ensure animals are fed and that ranchers dont turn instead to grazing them on forage that should be kept on the landscape. Our communities look to us for leadership and action in times of need, Kotek wrote to Vilsack. The timely review and approval of our request will provide critical support to the affected farmers and ranchers, helping them recover and rebuild. Counties seeking emergency declarations from wildfire: Baker, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Klamath, Lake, Lane, Linn, Malheur, Morrow, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco and Wheeler The Falls Fire northwest of Burns on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. It has burned more than 146,000 acres, destroyed 13 homes and 15 other structures. (Northwest Interagency Coordination Center) The wildfire season in Oregon has likely not yet peaked and already 1.3 million acres have been blackened or are ablaze, with 34 large fires burning. And five of them have spread over 100,000 acres each. We are on a trend of possibly setting a record in the state of Oregon for the amount of acres affected by fire, Carol Connolly, a spokesperson for the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center, which coordinates fire resources, told the Capital Chronicle. Typically the Northwest peaks around Aug. 14, so we still have a while to go in this fire season. Since 1992, when the center started tracking burned acreage, only the 2020 Labor Day Fires came close, with about 1.2 million acres burned in 11 counties. But those blazes were much more destructive to communities, killing nine people and destroying more than 5,000 homes. This year, the fires have destroyed at least 30 homes and more than 60 other structures, with hundreds of buildings remaining under threat. One death has been reported this year: Air tanker pilot James Bailey Maxwell, 74, died while working in the vicinity of the Falls Fire on July 25. The wildfires have prompted Gov. Tina Kotek to declare a statewide emergency and ask for federal help and regulatory flexibility for farmers and ranchers. Shes also invoked the Conflagration Act nine times. The most recent was on Monday for the Elk Lane Fire, which has burned nearly 5,100 acres northwest of Madras in Jefferson County. She also invoked the act last Thursday for the Telephone Fire in Harney County, which has scorched more than 50,000 acres northeast of Burns. It is threatening more than 150 homes and about 350 smaller structures, with evacuation orders in place. Conditions are prime for high fire activity today, and the fires continue to test our crews fortitude and resilience, but lines are holding, the Harney County Sheriffs Office said in a Tuesday update on Facebook. Koteks invocation of the Conflagration Act allows the state fire marshal to unleash resources to protect homes and people threatened by the Telephone Fire, which the sheriffs office said is likely to remain active on Tuesday. The weather across much of Oregon has been cooler in recent days but the forecasters predict hotter and drier conditions later this week. Ongoing incidents will see increasing areas of active fire behavior as both cloud cover and surface moisture is transported away this week, the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center said in a morning briefing. Protect yourself from smoke Stay inside if possible. Keep windows and doors closed. If its too hot, run air conditioning on recirculate or consider moving to a cooler location. Avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Use high-efficiency HEPA filters indoors or portable air purifiers. Avoid elevated areas. Follow your medical plan and keep medication refilled Check current conditions on the Oregon Smoke Information Blog, DEQs Air Quality Index or download the free OregonAIR app on your smartphone. The fires have prompted the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality to issue air quality alerts, with the most recent one on Monday when DEQ warned residents of unhealthy, smoky conditions in eastern Douglas, Grant, northern Harney, northern Klamath, eastern Lane, northern Malheur and eastern Wheeler counties. Officials also said that people in Crook, Deschutes, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine and Lake counties could face intermittent smoke, which can irritate the eyes and lungs and worsen some medical conditions. Children and older adults along with those who are pregnant or have heart or lung disease are especially at risk. Connolly of the coordination center said Tuesday that in Oregon, the Diamond Complex of nine fires that have scorched more than 6,600 acres east of Roseburg in the Umpqua National Forest is a top priority. It threatens four houses, 70 mixed commercial and residential buildings and 39 small structures along with utility services and access to Crater Lake along Highway 230. Officials have deployed more than 550 people to the fires along with four helicopters to fight the blazes from above. It could take until mid-October to snuff the blazes, the coordination center said. Among the five fires over 100,000 acres, the Durkee Fire in Baker and Malheur counties remains the biggest in Oregon. It has burned nearly 295,000 acres and destroyed four homes and 19 other structures. It is now 86% contained, which means firefighters have stopped the spread on most of the perimeter. The Battle Mountain Complex of four fires west of Ukiah has scorched more than 188,000 acres. The fires have destroyed seven homes and 10 other structures and are 39% contained. The Northwest Interagency Coordination Center said on Tuesday: Crews will continue mop-up operations around the entire perimeter of the fire. The Falls Fire northwest of Burns has burned more than 146,000 acres and is 75% contained. The fire is running through timber and evacuation orders are in effect, the coordination center said, with road and trail closures in the area. The fire has destroyed 13 homes and 15 other structures. The Lone Rock Fire southeast of Condon has burned more than 137,000 acres and is 92% contained. The Gilliam County Sheriffs Office said on Facebook on Tuesday that the acreage blackened is not likely to grow, with a few acres in forestland in Wheeler County proving difficult to contain. However, the fire crews in those areas are working hard to ensure any activity is contained within the already burnt areas of the landscape and will not become an external threat to the areas, the sheriffs office said. And the Cow Valley Fire in Malheur County northwest of Ontario, which scorched more than 133,000 acres, is now 99% contained. It destroyed two homes and five smaller structures. CORRECTION: An air tanker pilot died in July fighting the Falls Fire. A previous version of this story stated there had been no deaths. In the past seven years, research and other services by Oak Ridge National Laboratory personnel have reached a new level: some 500 sensor-laden and camera-outfitted drones have been flying at different times above Earth providing a birds-eye perspective as they collect useful data not easily obtainable on the ground. That was one message of Peter Fuhr, a distinguished scientist at ORNL who serves as both the group leader of ORNLs Grid Communications and Security Group and as the technical director of the Unmanned Aerial Systems Research Center. His group of 17, who work at ORNLs Hardin Valley campus in Knox County, have integrated artificial intelligence technology into their design, implementation and operation of some 100 smart drones, he said. Emma Foley, from left, Elizabeth Piersall, Erica Grant and Peter Fuhr show a large $18,000 sensor-laden drone that Fuhrs team uses to fly over transmission and distribution power lines to inspect them for hot spots and electric arcing that could spark forest fires. He and three co-presenters delivered a recent Dick Smyser Community Lecture sponsored by Friends of ORNL on Drones: Making Sense of the World Below. Smyser was the founding editor of The Oak Ridger and a FORNL board member who launched the community lecture series. A search of ORNL webpages and news releases indicates that ORNL-developed drones have been used to assist in search and rescue missions, such as in the Great Smoky Mountains; study the effects of energy use on waterways; inspect objects that would otherwise require personnel to climb ladders, such as the tops of SeaLand shipping containers; conduct national security research in remote places; study forest drought and trees stress reactions; locate damaged utility poles and transformers after storms, providing real-time data to help with coordination, and help prevent fires. Stopping fires started by power lines Fuhr and co-presenters spoke about his groups use of drones to help prevent the spread of fires and the start of fires by electric power transmission and distribution lines. Fuhr, whose pioneering research in fiber-optic sensors earned him a Presidential Award for Excellence in Research, listed remote measurements that can be made and substances that can be detected remotely by sensors, accelerometers, magnetometers and infrared, ultraviolet and visible light cameras mounted on flying drones. They include temperature, humidity, pressure, motion, radiation, coronal arc discharge, solar irradiance, cell phone signals, methane, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrogen, volatile organic compounds, alcohol vapor, particulates, nitrogen oxide and fluorinated gases. Fuhrs Grid Communications and Security Group has been working on using sensor-laden drones to help solve two problems: prevent wildfires from being sparked by the electric grids power lines and protect the grid from fires, which can cause widespread electrical outages. For the U.S. Forest Service, the primary agency for fighting wildfires, Fuhrs group has honed drone detection technology to remotely sense the direction of spreading fires, faulty electric utility equipment and electrical arcing in the grid. Power-line arcing, in which an electric discharge jumps across a gap in a connection between two conductors, is one way the grid can start a wildfire. Arcing is caused by wind, rain, frayed wires and overloaded circuits that can be caused by excessive demands for air conditioning on extremely hot days. A closeup of an Oak Ridge National Laboratory drone outfitted with a sensor that detects radio signals (RF) emitted from malfunctioning electric grid equipment. Fuhr showed an ORNL video that briefly described achievements by his group: Climate change is contributing to larger and more frequent wildfires, destroying lives and homes. Responding to the crisis, ORNL researchers developed an algorithm to recognize arcing that could spark fires. Drones can be deployed carrying cameras, audio recorders and heat sensors to check remote power lines for arcing. Drone-mounted heat sensors find fires beneath tree canopies or detect sparks spreading ahead of a larger blaze. This situational awareness helps firefighters put out fires faster with less risk to human life. (See the video and presentation at www.fornl.org by clicking on Past Talks at the left of the top bar.) According to an ORNL news release, The White House in July (2022) pointed to the wildfire research being conducted by Fuhrs team in explaining how the Biden Administration is tackling the wildfire threat. The release pointed out that drones can access rugged areas to detect arcing more easily than aircraft and helicopters, which are more expensive to operate. In his talk Fuhr briefly mentioned the bankruptcy of Pacific Gas & Electric. Last year PG&E was fined $4 million for insufficient maintenance of an electric transmission line that failed during a powerful windstorm in 2018, causing a devastating wildfire. It swept through Paradise and other communities in the Sierra Nevada foothills in California, killing 85 people. PG&E paid $25 billion to compensate for wildfire-related losses One of the Ph.D. students Fuhr advises at the University of Tennessee is Emma Foley, who spoke to the FORNL audience about the latest project of the team: development of autonomous intelligent measurements and sensor systems, or AIMS. Foley narrates a computer animation that shows a scout drone that flies from a building and locates a pole-mounted transformer radiating excess heat, possibly indicating it should be replaced. To completely diagnose the cause, the scout drone summons four drones that each have specific sensors to fly, two at a time, from the building to the same spot, gather data and return to the home base. These specialist drones each have its own special sensor to detect a radiofrequency (RF) signal, RF signal direction, sound waves or magnetic field strength. Computer software at the command center analyzes all the data collected by the drones to produce a diagnosis AIMS is a system consisting of advanced sensors that is capable of real-time autonomous inspection, Foley said. It uses swarming technologies, energy harvesting, communications and collaborative operation between unmanned aerial vehicles and the command center. The command center contains supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems used for controlling the drones, using them to collect data on what is being monitored (e.g., electric grid components) and analyzing data to determine which components are potentially failing. In March, Fuhrs team demonstrated at a Chattanooga training site with inactive power lines how AIMS works with a scout drone and specialist drone. Another Ph.D. candidate at UT Fuhr is advising is Elizabeth Piersall, a team member who demonstrated the use of a triband camera system, which consists of low-cost ultraviolet, infrared and visual cameras. The goal is to detect different types of events, each of which can be imaged only in a particular wavelength spectrum. We gain certain information on cracked insulators and malfunctioning transformers using infrared and ultraviolet cameras that we wouldnt pick up using a visible light camera only, she said, showing a thermal image of heat and temperature variations in the air above a forest fire obtained with a $70 Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) camera. One use of the drone-mounted triband camera is to measure the temperature of electrical transformers in a fire zone and then determine if they are too damaged to operate properly. Another speaker was Erica Grant, who has a Ph.D. from UT and is founder and CEO of Quantum Lock Technologies. Her startup is developing quantum security technology and software for door/key management, initially for hotels and manufacturing facilities. She is working with Fuhrs team to protect from hacking through encryption the data on detected grid problems and images of infrastructure obtained by ORNL drones. At the heart of our system is quantum-enhanced encryption secured by quantum random number generation, she said. Quantum random number generators shoot a laser beam at a crystal; some light particles bounce off it, which we count as zeros, and some pass through, counted as ones. This constantly changing random pattern of zeros and ones creates an unpredictable secure code that we can use to encrypt and secure data at different points in communication protocols. Piersall said that in Montana the team demonstrated for the Forest Service how drones outfitted with an infrared camera can thermally detect embers (small pieces of burning wood) that have blown away from the main fire before they cause a new blaze. By lighting a contained bonfire among scattered small cans of burning gel fuel, the team earlier learned the height at which a drone-mounted, heat-detecting sensor can identify tiny flames below. Fuhrs team provided sensors for a Forest Service experiment last year. An unmanned, solar-powered NASA high-altitude long endurance aircraft was supposed to fly for eight days at an altitude of 60,000 feet over New Mexico and Nevada above thunderstorms. The goal: locate fires ignited by lightning strikes. Unfortunately, Fuhr said, the experiment was stopped when batteries at the aircrafts rear burned up, bringing down the plane. Fuhr said that his and other ORNL teams design drone-mounted sensors for industrial firms interested in commercializing drone technology for certain applications through collaborative research and development agreements. Were not allowed to compete with the private sector, he said. Team Wildfire, Witching Hour He has been assisting founders of Team Wildfire and Witching Hour, two Knoxville companies made possible by the startup incubator funding initiatives, Techstars and Innovation Crossroads, respectively. Team Wildfire (www.Teamwildfire.com) has built an AI-enabled, jet enginepowered, robotic, firefighting hurricane on wheels machine it hopes to market. The Witching Hour founder has proposed using a drone to deposit an insulator coating on transmission lines to prevent them from setting dried-out vegetation on fire if they fall on the forest floor. He estimated that the cost of using a drone to insulate an operating transmission line would be $30,000 per kilometer. Fuhr said he recently learned from utility executives that the cost of installing an underground transmission line or using machines to put insulators on transmission lines accessed by tilting over the towers is about $2 million per kilometer. An Oak Ridge National Laboratory drone flies over trees on a mission to inspect pole-mounted transformers and power lines for potential problems. This article originally appeared on Oakridger: How ORNL's smart drones help fight fires, protect the power grid (Bloomberg) -- A heat wave in eastern China prompted warnings in Shanghai and pushed another major city, Hangzhou, to a record as extreme weather continues to sweep across the country. Most Read from Bloomberg Shanghai issued its highest heat wave alert for the second time this week, forecasting that temperatures in parts of the Pudong district will exceed 40C (104F). The city of about 25 million people, a key hub for commerce and shipping, issued its first red heat alert of the year on Thursday after temperatures reached a similar level. It was even hotter in Hangzhou, the capital city of Zhejiang province about 175 kilometers (109 miles) from Shanghai. Temperatures there surged to 41.9C at 2:35 p.m., breaking the record of 41.8C on Aug. 14, 2022, according to the Hangzhou Meteorological Bureau. The city is Chinas e-commerce hub and home to companies including Alibaba Group Holding. Hangzhou may get even hotter over the next two days with temperatures forecast to rise to as high as 42C, the weather bureau said. Chinas eastern, central and western regions have been struck by extreme weather conditions all summer, attributed in part to climate change. The government stepped up disaster-relief efforts after heavy rains lashed different parts of the country in recent weeks, killing dozens of people and displacing thousands, damaging infrastructure and threatening industrial and agricultural production. Local authorities have urged businesses and citizens to take precautionary measures, including fire prevention efforts. To help ensure power supplies at a time of soaring air-conditioning demand, Shanghais government ordered landscape lighting in the metropolis to switch off an hour early. Shanghais highest-ever temperature was 40.9C, recorded in 1873 and repeated two years ago, according to the weather bureau. Listen on Zero: Cities Must Be Redesigned for a Future of Extreme Heat Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. There is a new ouster petition filed against Wanda Halbert. What are the key differences? An attorney on behalf of the Shelby County Attorney's office Friday evening filed a new ouster petition against Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halbert. The petition is built on the bones of the since-dismissed ouster brought by Hamilton County District Attorney Coty Wamp but provides a deeper look at the allegations levied against the embattled clerk. Featuring testimony from county officials, excerpts from county meetings and a swath of documents, the new ouster points to the general same reasons for removing Halbert from office before her term expires in 2026. While the bones of the new petition are the same, there are some additional facts included that were not included in the original, including refuting statements Halbert has made repeatedly about other Shelby County officials. The sections related to Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury report released after the department visited the Clerk's office to aid in financial reporting and auto dealer strain do not have any large differences from the initial petition. Here are some of the new, and a reminder of the old, allegations against Halbert featured in the ouster petition. Why is there a new ouster petition? In June, Shelby County Circuit Court Judge Felicia Corbin-Johnson dismissed the ouster petition filed by Wamp due to lack of standing. Per the ouster laws in Tennessee, only three people are allowed to bring ouster proceedings against an elected official: the Tennessee Attorney General, the district attorney of the locality or the county attorney's office. In March 2023, Shelby County Attorney Marlinee Iverson received "numerous complaints" from elected officials and residents regarding Halbert. Per the new ouster, Iverson wrote to Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy to pursue an ouster investigation. Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halbert waits to speak to her attorneys after the first court appearance for Halberts ouster proceedings at Shelby County Circuit Court in Memphis, Tenn., on Friday, May 31, 2024. Mulroy believed he had a conflict of interest, and requested a pro tem DA be appointed. Wamp was assigned to the case and filed a petition of her own in early May. Immediately Halbert's attorney filed a motion to dismiss, which was denied without prejudice as it was premature. They soon filed another motion to dismiss, which Corbin-Johnson would ultimately grant. In Friday's filing, the county attorney's office will take the case's reigns, although it will be through retained counsel as Iverson still believes her office has a conflict of interest. The new ouster was filed by local attorney Robert Meyers. Finance reports inaccuracies In both the new and old ouster petition, inaccurate financial reporting is mentioned specifically. Financial reports have been "consistently inaccurate, with collected dollar amounts not added properly," both petitions say, making it impossible for the county to rely on them for funding distributions. There has not been a single accurate revenue report that Halbert has turned in both timely and accurately, the petition said. Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halbert listens to a speaker during a Shelby County Board of Commissioners budget committee meeting in Downtown Memphis, on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. The new elements of the petition cite issues deeper in the office. One of which is issues in the office related to staffing. The petition alleges that Halbert's claim that it takes "too long to get employees 'on-boarded,'" is "self-created." The petition says that Shelby County Human Resources has an active list of applications of individuals that could be interviewed, hired or trained "at any time." "Defendant refused and failed to approve EIC personnel requisitions so that the Defendants CAO could then interview, hire and fill open positions, even though all the Defendant had to effectively do was hit a button and approve them," according to the legal filing. On staffing, the petition says that another county office offered to "loan" Halbert 20 unclassified employees for temporary work in the clerk's office, to handle the backlog on vehicle plates and registrations. Halbert allegedly refused and also did not approve of overtime work for employees during the backlog. More: With primaries wrapped up, who will Shelby County residents see on the November ballot? Local: Biden Supreme Court reform proposal splits Tennessee legislators | The Week in Politics Other "highly paid" county officials, including the County Attorney, aided Halbert and her office during the backlog, the petition states, packing tens of thousands of vehicle registration envelopes and preparing them to be mailed out to citizens. But, the petition says that instead of taking all the mail directly to the USPS from the van the mail was packed into, the van sat at a storage location. "As a result, tens of thousands of citizens did not timely receive their vehicle registrations for which those citizens had already paid," the petition states. Lease issues The majority of the section of the petition related to the office closures is the same, with only one key difference. Since Halbert has taken office, both petitions allege, there have been multiple clerk's office closures related to her neglect of maintaining active leases. During Halbert's first term, the Germantown branch of the Shelby County Clerk's Office closed due to the lease expiring. The Germantown location served several communities, the petition said and was largely important to some auto dealers processing vehicle registrations and titling. The Germantown location closed in 2020, and Halbert "assured the public" that a new office would replace it. To date, there has not been a new office to replace the closure of the Germantown branch. Again in 2023, the Poplar Plaza location closed due to the expiration of the lease. Hamilton County District Attorney Coty Wamp after the first court appearance for Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halberts ouster proceedings at Shelby County Circuit Court in Memphis, Tenn., on Friday, May 31, 2024. The one difference on this issue between petitions is the new petition speaks specifically to Halbert's assertation that the offices are "illegal" due to violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act or more generally the "code." "Defendant (Halbert) has also strangely maintained that she cannot lease various spaces because they are 'illegal,' and has even represented to the Commission that many other County Government locations are 'illegal,'" the petition states. The new petition also states Halbert has "shirked her responsibly" of the clerk's office by failing to maintain sufficient satellite office locations for Shelby County residents "by blaming everyone else and taking no responsibly for her own Office." Halbert's 'no show' at May 1 Committee meeting The sections in the petitions relating to Halbert's no-show at the May 1 committee meeting where she was scheduled to present her corrective action plan are almost identical to each other. The new ouster cites additional allegations Halbert, refuting the statements she has made against County officials who Halbert claims have stolen the office's money. Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halbert listens to a speaker during the first court appearance for Halberts ouster proceedings at Shelby County Circuit Court in Memphis, Tenn., on Friday, May 31, 2024. "Though it has been explained to her several times, the tax and other revenues collected by Defendant's Office do not belong to Defendant or to her Office-they belong to the County and really to the citizens of Shelby County," the new petition states. There is no court state scheduled as of publication. Halbert and her attorneys have 20 days to respond to the petition from Aug. 2. The petition asks for a suspension hearing to be held while the case processes through the court and also for an out-of-town jury. This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: How petitions to oust Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halbert differ About a year after Joan Meyers death, independent prosecutors have said the former police chief will be charged Eric Meyer/ZUMA Press Wire Joan Meyer (with walker) confronts local law enforcement officers who searched the newspaper matriarch's home on Friday, Aug. 11, 2023, following an unpublished investigation into a local businesswoman. Dressed in a light blue gown and wielding her walker forcefully through a pack of police officers huddled in her home, the 98-year-old co-owner of a local Kansas newspaper was unmistakable about her consternation. Dont you touch any of that stuff, Joan Meyer said, waving her arm in an edited video of the interaction released by the Associated Press. This is my house, she said during the Aug. 11, 2023 search, adding: Get em outta here. The next day, Meyer who is the mother of the Marion County Record publisher, and shares a home with her son died of a sudden cardiac arrest, according to the coroners report, characterizing the searches as extremely upsetting to the nonagenarian. The coroners notes are cited as part of a 124-page report by specially-appointed prosecutors released this week and obtained by PEOPLE which calls local law enforcements investigation leading to search warrants at the local newspaper and the Meyers residence inadequate. Chase Castor for The Washington Post via Getty Joan Meyer's memorial was set up in front of the Marion County Record, where she worked for nearly 60 years. The searches which stemmed from the newspapers unpublished investigation into a restaurant owner pursuing a liquor license and put the small town in the international spotlight concerning First Amendment issues will lead to a criminal charge of obstruction of the judicial process against the former Marion police chief, according to the report. As of Tuesday, Aug. 6, former Chief Gideon Cody had not yet been charged, but Marc Bennett, one of the independent prosecutors who authored the report, told PEOPLE in an email that the charge would likely be filed later this week. It is unclear if the charge is a felony or misdemeanor. Sedgwick County District Attorney Bennett and Riley County Attorney Barry Wilkerson, who investigated the case over the last year, both said by email that they could not further comment on the ongoing civil and upcoming criminal proceedings. In early August of last year, Joan Meyer's son Eric Meyer, the publisher and co-owner of the Marion County Record, emailed Cody, who was then the police chief, requesting comment after the newspaper had obtained from a source a local businesswoman's driving record, according to the report. Cody who did not return PEOPLEs request for comment in time for publication immediately reached the assumption, according to the prosecutors report, that the businesswoman's record had been stolen in connection with the divorce she was going through. In reality, the record was publicly available online, due to a glitch in the Kansas Department of Revenues online system, and prosecutors absolved the newspapers journalists of any crime, per the report. Small town familiarity explains but does not excuse the inadequate investigation that gave rise to the search warrant applications in this matter, the prosecutors wrote in the report, adding that a few minutes on the phone with the Kansas Department of Revenue was, functionally, the entirety of this investigation. In a statement to PEOPLE, Melissa Underwood of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation which later handed over the case to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation said that Cody "did not coordinate the search warrants" with her office "as he claimed," and that as a result "the KBI did not review or approve the warrants executed at the Marion County Record or at the homes of the accused subjects in Marion." Kansas City Star/Getty The Marion County Record's first newspaper edition, following the Aug. 11, 2023 raids at the newspaper's office and publisher's home. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. While serving the warrant at the Meyers residence, an officer asked the elderly woman how many computers she had in the home. Im not going to tell you, she said, walking past him: Get out of my way! I want to see what theyre doing. Observing the officers rifling through her belongings, she exclaimed you people! before the edited video cut out. In an interview for the newspaper matriarchs obituary, Eric Meyer told The New York Times that the coroner had confirmed that the stress of the searches made at their home and the newspapers office had contributed to her death. (Ultimately, per the prosecutorial report, the coroner listed her death as natural.) Prosecutors found that while one could assume that, but for the execution of the warrant and the consequent extreme upset this caused to Mrs. Meyer, that she would not or might not have died on August 12, 2023, such a presumption was not enough to lead to any sort of conviction connected to her death. Law enforcement officers who executed the warrants were similarly not culpable of any crime, per prosecutors. She said over and over again, Where are all the good people to put a stop to this? her son told The Times of his mother, who had worked for nearly six decades as a reporter, columnist, editor and associate publisher at the newspaper and who still wrote the occasional article. She felt like, how can you go through your entire life and then have something that you spent 50 years of your life doing just kind of trampled on like its meaningless? For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Dispensaries in the Miami Valley will soon be selling recreational marijuana. News Center 7s Taylor Robertson spoke with an attorney. She will have his concerns about officers stopping impaired drivers LIVE on News Center 7 at 11. Charles M Rowland II, a Dayton DUI/OVI defense attorney, said the Ohio OVI laws need an update now that recreational marijuana is legal. >> RELATED: Local dispensaries prepare for opening day of recreational marijuana sales People who use marijuana regularly have fat cells in their body that store a metabolite, Rowland said. As long as the metabolite is in your system, Ohio law says that you are under the influence of marijuana. Assume you smoke marijuana or you ingest an edible of marijuana, youre not high, youre driving responsibly and god forbid something happens, and you hurt someone in an accident, that could still be used as evidence of impairment, Rowland said. Rowland said to have someone who is not impaired by the use of cannabis be charged as if they were drunk is in his opinion Incomprehensible, awful and something he thinks lawyers need to address. He said bills are pending in the legislature to look at the way officers test for marijuana impairment, but for now, Rowland said to not put yourself in a position to be suspected of being impaired behind the wheel. Maj. Jackson with the Riverside Police Department suggested anyone who plans to buy recreational marijuana should wait until they get home, not in their car, to open their purchases. News Center 7 will continue to update this story. This PAC says it doesnt support candidates, but runs ad that lauds Matt Meyer This story was produced by Spotlight Delaware as part of a partnership with Delaware Online/The News Journal. For more about Spotlight Delaware, visit www.spotlightdelaware.org. A Delaware political action committee that claims to not support any candidate raised more than $200,000 in previous years from several high-profile donors, including a friend to Joe Biden, a solar executive in Boston, a DuPont heir, and a developer whose warehouse plans helped to spark New Castle Countys biggest political controversy last year. In recent weeks, the group has used its hefty war chest to run a TV ad that lauds what it calls the health care plan of New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer a candidate for Delaware governor. It also recently sent political mailers to various Delaware voters attacking Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long one of Meyers two opponents in the governors race claiming she is wrong on public safety. Despite the advocacy, a spokesman for the group which is called the Change Cant Wait PAC said it does not expressly support or oppose any candidate. A TV advertisement backed by wealthy donors in Delaware and abroad is raising questions about the limits of the state's PAC regulations. When pressed on the messaging in the advertisements, the spokesman Washington, D.C.-based consultant Julian Mulvey said Change Cant Wait is following established Delaware law and practice, so assigning us to a candidate is incorrect. State election law allows so-called issue-only political action committees to run ads that mention candidates so long as they dont explicitly tell viewers to vote for a specific person. While the ads from Change Cant Wait appear to be in compliance with the law, its own staff members have previously said that the group does support a candidate. In 2022, a representative for Change Cant Wait said in a filing to the Delaware Department of Elections that our candidate does not have a primary in this cycle. Last week, the groups former treasurer acknowledged to Spotlight Delaware that Change Cant Wait was formed in 2021 to support Meyer. During a press conference last month, Meyer said hes aware of Change Cant Wait. Asked if the group supports him, Meyer said, Youll have to ask them. Mulvey said Change Cant Wait has communicated with Meyers campaign staff, but only for the purpose of fact-checking before producing our communication. In all, the groups advocacy is among the latest political maneuvering of the 2024 gubernatorial campaign made by outside political groups, which are legally barred from coordinating with candidates campaigns. Sam Hoff, a professor emeritus in history, political science and philosophy at Delaware State University, said such third-party political groups have proliferated in the state, in part, because of its proximity to larger cities in the Mid-Atlantic region. We cant really think in terms of Delaware as a small state, he said. Were part of a megalopolis region in which these PACs dont stop at the border. Since the start of summer, a union-affiliated PAC from New Jersey has backed Hall-Longs campaign, and environmental PACs from the Washington, D.C., area have come out to support Collin OMara Delawares former chief environmental regulator and the third Democratic candidate for governor. Finally, a PAC funded by executives at a New York translations company in recent weeks has begun spending what it previously pledged will be $1 million to oppose Hall-Long. The donors revealed Change Cant Wait did not report its campaign spending within 48 hours of buying its recent political ads, as other groups, called third-party advertisers, must do. Spotlight Delaware was not able to determine whether issue-only PACs are required under Delaware law to do so. Mulvey said his group is required to file an updated list of its donors before a deadline that falls 30 days before an election. That deadline is next week. Still, finance reports from past years show that Change Cant Wait has been fueled by several politically influential donors many who have separately contributed directly to Meyers campaign. Last year, the group received its largest single contribution at $25,000 from a John Hyanski, according to the PACs filing with the Department of Elections. The listing is an apparent misspelling in the records of John Hynansky, a prominent Delaware businessman and close friend of the Bidens. The report lists the address of the $25,000 contribution at a Wilmington office associated with Hynanskys businesses. The contribution adds to $1,200 Hynansky donated to Meyers campaign in 2021, according to campaign reports. Hynansky did not reply to requests to comment for this story. Change Cant Wait also received a total of $24,500 through a string of donations in 2022 and 2023 from the president of ECA Solar, a Massachusetts-based renewable energy company. In March, ECA Solar sold two solar farms in southern Delaware to a company owned by the global investment firm, Brookfield. At the time, Delaware Business Now reported that ECA Solar had become one of the largest solar developers in Delaware. Two donors have given $15,000 to Change Cant Wait. Those were Gerret Copeland, a philanthropist and heir of the du Pont family wealth, and Stonelock Properties, a New Jersey real estate company that owns four apartment complexes in Newark. Behind those donations were five contributions totaling $10,000 each. They came from a Newport engineering executive, a banker who lives at the Delaware beaches, a New Castle private jet company, and two more property management companies. A developer behind a mega-warehouse plan near Middletown, called the Jamison Corner Commerce Center, gave $5,000 to Change Cant Wait, while one of his companies contributed another $5,000. The proposed half-million square-foot warehouse is one of three in the Middletown area that last year sparked a politically tinged backlash among largely suburban residents. Get stories like this delivered to your email inbox by signing up for the free newsletter at spotlightdelaware.org/subscribe. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware PAC says it doesn't support candidates, runs ad that lauds Meyer A Pakistani man suspected of plotting on behalf of Iran to kill high-ranking U.S. politicians or officials including perhaps former President Donald Trump is in U.S. custody after being charged with trying to hire hit men to carry out the plot, according to U.S. officials and court documents. Asif Merchant, 46, was arrested in Texas on July 12 as he prepared to leave the country, prosecutors said. U.S. officials said Tuesday that the plot was not connected to the assassination attempt on Trump at a rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania, on the day following Merchants arrest. Rather, officials said, the plot appears to be related to efforts by Iran to retaliate for the killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani in a U.S. drone strike Trump ordered in Iraq in 2020. Court filings released as the case became public Tuesday refer to the potential target in elliptical terms as a U.S. politician or public official, with no specific mention of Trump. But in discussions Merchant had with others, Trumps name came up as a possible target, according to a law enforcement official granted anonymity to discuss sensitive details about the investigation. A former senior Trump administration official said Tuesday he received a "duty to warn" briefing from the FBI about Merchant before the indictment was unsealed. Among the indications that Merchant was targeting a high-level official is a comment he allegedly made about the target being well protected. On June 4, during a sting operation mounted by the FBI, Merchant told a confidential source that there would be security all around the target, FBI Special Agent Anthony Cipriano said in an affidavit filed in federal court in Brooklyn, New York. Merchant appeared in federal court there on July 17 and a magistrate judge ordered him held without bail, according to court records. In an unusual move, the criminal complaint and a letter from prosecutors urging Merchants detention were kept secret until Tuesday at the governments request. During a visit to prosecutors and law enforcement agents in Iowa Tuesday, Attorney General Merrick Garland decried the alleged plot, but stressed that investigators do not see a connection to the assassination attempt on Trump in Pennsylvania. Officials believe that shooting was carried out by Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old American from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, who was shot dead at the scene by a Secret Service sniper. I do want to recognize that in the wake of the attempted assassination of former President Trump last month, the American people are more aware than ever about the seriousness of the threats facing our public officials, Garland said. While our investigation into the attempted assassination remains ongoing, as the FBI has stated multiple times, we have not found any evidence that the shooter had accomplices or co-conspirators, either foreign or domestic. According to court papers, the FBI became aware of Merchants plot in April after he traveled in Iran and Pakistan before flying to the U.S. and reaching out to someone who reported to law enforcement that Merchant had asked him to help steal information, organize protests and carry out an assassination. That unnamed contact agreed to become a confidential source for the FBI, court filings say. The FBI arranged a pair of undercover officers to pose as hit men who could help with the operation, according to prosecutors. He met them in June and told them he was looking to kill a political person, Cipriano wrote. In a later meeting with the confidential source, Merchant provided a rudimentary written code that would obscure the purpose of their interactions, court filings say. Merchant wrote that the word tee-shirt would mean a protest, which he described as the lightest work, Cipriano wrote. The phrase flannel shirt would mean stealing, which was heavier work. Fleece jacket, Cipriano continued, was Merchants code for murder. When Merchant was arrested, agents found a list of the codewords in his wallet, Cipriano said. The court filings dont say Merchant explicitly declared that he was acting on behalf of Iran, but say he indicated an affinity for Iran, often traveled there, and had a wife and children both in Iran and Pakistan. Threats from Iran have led the Secret Service to increase security for Trump and other current and former U.S. officials in recent months. That increase was prompted in part by the plot Merchant is charged with, a law enforcement official said Tuesday. Certainly, that was part of the calculus, said the official, who was granted anonymity to discuss the security arrangements. Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi said officials are aware of the Iranian threat and are taking it into account when planning security arrangements. Some in Congress have pressed for even more security coverage in response to the threats U.S. officials have attributed to Iran. During a Senate hearing last week about the Pennsylvania assassination attempt on Trump and federal agencies handling of it, Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) pressed acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe about the cancellation of a security detail for former national security adviser Robert OBrien. Who made that decision despite Irans ongoing, credible threats? Cotton asked, urging that the protection be restored. It wasnt the Secret Service, Rowe said, adding that such protection was usually granted by presidential memorandum. I'm pretty confident that the agency can get this done, and I think it needs to get done, if you look at the kind of ongoing threats that he and all these others face, Cotton said. A Pakistani national with alleged ties to the Iranian government has been charged with plotting to carry out political assassinations on American soil. Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn on Tuesday unsealed a criminal complaint against Asif Merchant, who faces one count of murder for hire. Merchant allegedly traveled to New York and met with undercover agents posing as hit men to discuss the plot, providing a $5,000 advance payment. Merchant said the plot would be ongoing, not a one-time opportunity and made a finger gun motion with his hand to indicate it would involve killing, according to the complaint. In a statement, Attorney General Merrick Garland connected the foiled plot to Irans brazen and unrelenting efforts to get back at American public officials for the 2020 killing of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani. Soleimani was killed at the direction of U.S. officials during former President Trumps administration. Reports surfaced shortly after an attempted assassination on Trumps life at a rally in Pennsylvania last month that his security detail had been increased following intelligence that Tehran was plotting an assassination attempt on Trump in retaliation. The Iranian regime denied such reports at the time. Merchant was arrested on July 12, the day before Trumps shooting at his rally in Butler, Pa. The Justice Department will spare no resource to disrupt and hold accountable those who would seek to carry out Irans lethal plotting against American citizens, and will not tolerate attempts by an authoritarian regime to target American public officials and endanger Americas national security, Garland said in his statement. The Hill has reached out to Merchants attorney for comment. Prosecutors say Merchant traveled to the United States this April after spending time in Iran. Looking to recruit, he allegedly contacted an individual who became a confidential source for law enforcement. Charging documents state the source ultimately led Merchant to meet with two undercover agents posing as hitmen. In the meeting, he allegedly sought three services: theft of documents, arranging protests at political rallies and for them to kill a political person, according to prosecutors. The instructions on whom to kill would come in the last week of August or first week of September, after Merchant had left the U.S., according to the complaint. Merchant arranged to leave the country on July 12 but was arrested before he could. The assassination attempt on Trump, which law enforcement has said does not appear connected to Merchants plot, occurred on July 13. This dangerous murder-for-hire plot exposed in todays charges allegedly was orchestrated by a Pakistani national with close ties to Iran and is straight out of the Iranian playbook, FBI Director Christopher Wray said in a statement. A foreign-directed plot to kill a public official, or any U.S. citizen, is a threat to our national security and will be met with the full might and resources of the FBI. Pakistans Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the office has seen media reports about the alleged assassination plot and is in touch with U.S. officials. We have also noted the statements by US officials that this is an ongoing investigation, an unnamed spokesperson for the office said in a statement posted to its website. Before giving our formal reaction, we also need to be sure of the antecedents of the individual in question. Updated Aug. 7 at 8:30 a.m. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A Palestinian leader sees new energy in U.S. particularly among young Americans to confront Mideast crisis He wears a small black-and-white checked kaffiyeh-patterned pocket square in his jackets breast pocket. His hair is grayer than when we last met more than a decade ago. Mustafa Barghouti, West Bank-based cardiologist and reluctant politician, for years has been considered one of the regions smartest and most moderate Palestinian leaders, with an easy but principled manner toward friends and foes alike. Barghouti, 70, heads the Palestinian National Initiative political faction, which sees itself as a democratic alternative to the extremist Hamas as well as the Palestinian Authority, which has long provided a degree of administration in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war triggered by Hamas Oct. 7 attacks that killed 1,200 Israelis and an Israeli counteroffensive that has killed more than 39,000 Palestinians Barghouti has been lobbying Americans to intervene. The U.S., he says, today plays an even greater role in the conflict because it has become home to one of the largest Palestinian populations outside the Mideast. He was in Washington last month to seek support for Palestinians and help for Gaza, including visits to Democratic and independent congressional lawmakers and activist groups here and in San Francisco. He spoke to The Times about the conflict. Some of the questions here are paraphrased. In your meetings with lawmakers, what is your message? The United States is drowned to its neck in the Middle East. I thought they had a strategy that we should calm down the Middle East. They had false hopes about normalization [between Israel and other Arab states]. The impact of whats happening in Palestine is going to be very serious for the reputation of the United States in Arab countries, for a long time, and not only the Arab countries but worldwide. So what is needed now? Cutting off weapons immediately. All weapons. [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu will not be able to survive without the Americans. And he could drag the United States into very serious confrontation with Iran. ... The U.S. also is giving him coverage in the [United Nations] Security Council. [We also want] massive pressure on Israel to endorse [steps] for the cease-fire, negotiation and ending occupation of Gaza and also to stop what Israel is doing in the West Bank [by expanding illegal settlements while settlers attack Palestinian villagers.] In the past, Israel has largely controlled the narrative. In this conflict, the Palestinian story has played a larger role. Other than the scope of the death and destruction in Gaza, why do you think that is? One of the good signs is that for the first time, maybe since the Vietnam War, you have on the campuses, this huge movement in support of Palestine. Worldwide, the Gaza war opened the door for making the Palestinian cause the No. 1 cause of justice worldwide. Thats why it had a very important impact, for instance, on elections in France, ... an impact in Spain, in Ireland, and now its having an impact here. ... Its important that people recognize that this is going to be the cause of the future. Are Palestinians better organized? Partially, its we are better organized. Partially, the truth is very clear. And third, the most important thing is we have social media. In the past, it was only mainstream media, and mainstream media was not showing everything. They were mostly biased to the Israeli side. And they continue to do so, but the social media breaks the taboo. [Another] factor is the second and third Palestinian generation who are young people, [descended from parents and grandparents displaced in 1948], especially young women, who know the system, who speak the language and who are not afraid of telling their opinion. And many of those second and third generations are in the U.S.? We have, it seems, in the United States the third-largest Palestinian population in the world. The first two being Palestine and Jordan. ( Note: Precise estimates of the Palestinian diaspora are difficult to determine and vary.) The Palestinian voices in America today are much stronger than any time before. The Palestinian diaspora is back to being active. While it was marginalized for 30 years ... what you can see is revitalization of the Palestinian issue. Worldwide, a whole new generation is revitalized, reenergized. And their commitment to the Palestinian issue is better than our generation. You have been critical of President Biden and former President Trump on Mideast policy. Do you see a difference in Vice President Kamala Harris? Her language about Palestinian suffering is much better. But we need to see change in policy, not just words. What was your reaction to the Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas? The most important thing to remember is this conflict did not begin on Oct. 7. The longest occupation in history, an apartheid system and efforts by Netanyahu to eliminate the Palestinian issue [from public discourse]. It was a tragedy that so many Israelis were killed [on Oct. 7], but the real tragedy is they have Netanyahu as their leader . He doesnt care about them. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. (Bloomberg) -- SoftBank Group Corp. is likely to report a small profit, an indication of how past mistakes continue to weigh on the company even as billionaire founder Masayoshi Son prepares his next big AI bet. Most Read from Bloomberg Emerging from a month of sharp selloffs, the Tokyo-based investment firm on Wednesday is expected to report a net income of 1 billion ($6.9 million) for the June quarter, according to the average of three analysts polled. That compares with a big loss of 477.6 billion a year ago, but is tiny compared with profits in the preceding two quarters, attesting to the continued drag from hundreds of loss-making startups that remain on Vision Fund books. SoftBank is preparing to report earnings at a critical juncture. Its stock plunged Monday by its most since 1998, as investors fled global tech stocks partly on concerns over the time it will take for much-hyped AI to yield profits. The shares recouped most of that loss Tuesday morning, but SoftBanks market value was still down roughly $50 billion from a record high notched in July. A sustained rout would hurt the Japanese companys ability to secure financing, even as it increases the attraction of potential deals. The market turmoils also hurt Sons personal wealth, erasing a big chunk of his gains this year. Shares rebounded as much as 14% Tuesday morning in Tokyo. The earnings come as Son gears up for his next big gamble on the future of artificial intelligence. The billionaire has a large cash pile to deploy, after years of reining in investments. His ability to raise financing has soared thanks to Arm Holdings Plcs initial public offering last year, while earnings got a further boost from another sale of T-Mobile US Inc. shares to Deutsche Telekom AG as part of a 2020 deal. Shares of Arm the company that Son says will be at the heart of his next project are down about 40% from their peak in July, after it gave an unchanged outlook, citing weaknesses in markets other than data centers and high-end smartphones. Arm is trying to break into broader fields such as automotive applications. Son, who turns 67 on Sunday, has said that he is ready to swing for the fences. The company is working on a plan to deploy some $100 billion into AI-related chips, Bloomberg earlier reported. Story continues SoftBank bought British semiconductor startup Graphcore Ltd. for an undisclosed sum last month. The Bristol-based startup designs semiconductors to run AI programs, but has struggled to gain traction, even as larger rival Nvidia Corp. surged ahead. We see progress with entry into the AI chip business as a potential catalyst for SoftBank Groups share price, Daisaku Masuno, an analyst at Nomura Securities Co. wrote in a note last week. It would be positive if SoftBank Group were able to realize a wide range of partnerships with the hyperscalers. Here is what analysts are saying: Bloomberg Intelligence (Marvin Lo, Chris Muckensturm) SoftBanks AI investment strategy might not be smooth sailing with execution risk high AIs hype is fading now that theres a greater focus on AI companies ability to deliver revenue and earnings. The reality check could cap SoftBanks Vision Funds investment income despite a potential cut in the Feds rate in the near term The companys recent asset monetization boosted liquidity, letting it support an aggressive investment strategy Astris Advisory (Kirk Boodry) Concerns on tech growth have brought Arm back to where it traded in May. We think Arm shares got a bit ahead of themselves in July. The lack of a guidance hike added fuel to the fire SoftBank shares slumped 25% over past two days pushing the discount to NAV to an estimated 57% as of Monday It may be too early to call a bottom, but we do think it is worth highlighting that the discount is approaching record levels at 57% versus the 70% it reached when markets sold off on Covid fears Softbank shares may continue the slide that started mid-July. But Arms low free float tends to exaggerate share price reactions, meaning some recovery is also possible Macquarie (Paul Golding, Emma Liang) The Graphcore acquisition indicating SoftBanks interest in a vertically-integrated supply chain from processor design to chip manufacturing is quite bold but anchored by SoftBanks 90% stake in Arm The acquisition could meaningfully advance SBGs larger AI ecosystem aspirations, especially in light of the short supply of compute amidst surging demand for accelerators Given Arms pivotal role in SoftBanks AI strategy, collaboration among the two companies could unlock more potential from the AI ecosystem portfolio, thereby boosting SoftBanks NAV Citigroup (Mitsunobu Tsuruo) Graphcore specializes in developing AI chips and SoftBank could make significant further investment to increase scale and promote collaboration with Arm SoftBank has just begun investing in AI semiconductors, and we anticipate progress in development tools and investment in forming a developer community --With assistance from Edwin Chan. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Protesters hold a portrait of Islam al-Taweel, the chairman of a city council in the West Bank, during a demonstration on Tuesday in support of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails - Nasser Nasser/AP Photo Palestinian prisoners have been systematically tortured and abused since Oct 7, a report by an Israeli human rights body has alleged. Israel has categorically rejected the claims made by BTselem, a Jerusalem-based body. Its report, entitled Welcome to Hell includes testimonies from 55 Palestinian prisoners from Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem, who describe abuse ranging from torture to sexual assault. Fadi Baker, a 25-year-old from Gaza who was sent to Sde Teiman facility in the Negev desert, claimed that Israeli interrogators put cigarettes out in my mouth and on my body. He added: They put clamps on my testicles that were attached to something heavy. It went on like that for a whole day. A group of Palestinians released from custody by Israel awaiting treatment at Al Aqsa Hospital last month - Ashraf Amra/Anadolu via Getty Images The testimonies clearly indicate a systemic, institutional policy focused on the continual abuse and torture of all Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, BTselem said in its report. The group alleged frequent acts of severe, arbitrary violence as well as sexual assault, humiliation and degradation, deliberate starvation and sleep deprivation. The Israeli army told The Telegraph that it categorically rejects allegations of systematic abuse, including sexual abuse, in its detention facilities. Detainees are provided with three meals a day, maintained hygiene, regular showers, clean clothes, and adequate medical care, the Israel Defense Forces added. Israeli soldiers at Sde Teiman military base as a protest is staged in support of soldiers being questioned over alleged detainee abuse last week - Tsafrir Abayov/AP Photo The report does not say when the interviews took place or refer to what those spoken to were accused of or charged with. We didnt ask them, thats not the point of the report, Shai Parnes, of BTselem, told The Telegraph. Most of them were released without charges. However, at least one of the prisoners, 45-year-old Thaer Halahleh, who claimed the prison turned into a torture facility, has previously been jailed over membership of Islamic Jihad. It is unclear if he is still a member of the terror group and what he was accused of when jailed again in June 2022. The Telegraph has asked the IDF for clarification of the charges and accusations against the 55 prisoners who were interviewed. It said that it has various monitoring mechanisms to ensure that detention facilities are managed according to IDF orders and the law, including inspections by senior officers who are not part of the facility staff, and continuous closed-circuit television monitoring. The report stated that an estimated 9,623 Palestinian prisoners were in Israeli jails as of early July. Of those, more than 1,850 are said to be affiliated with Hamas, according to the Times of Israel, citing IDF figures. Click here to view this content. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) Palliative Care of North Texas is celebrating nine years of business and hosting a supply drive. From now through Thursday, August 15, 2024, PCNT is collecting Ensure and Depends for their patients. United Regional partners with Meals on Wheels to raise awareness about fall prevention PCNT is the only palliative care in the area that accepts Medicaid and underfunded patients, meaning that many of their patients are in need of extra nutrition or Depends. This drive ensures that they can depend on PCNT. If you are unsure what to buy, PCNT has an Amazon wish list. Unopened packages of Ensure and Depends can be dropped off at the PCNT clinic on August 15 from 1:30 to 4:30 PM at 4909 Johnson Road. For more information, call Hospice of Wichita Falls at (940) 691-0982. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com. Palm Beach County Commission primary: One spot will be contested between two Democrats The Palm Beach County Commission District 7 seat will have a new face come November. After an eight-year run, Mack Bernard, a Democrat, is term-limited. He will be staying in politics, though. He will be the next state senator for District 24, representing coastal Palm Beach County from North Palm Beach to Hypoluxo, as no one filed to challenge him in either the primary or general election. Two long-time Democrats, State Sen. Bobby Powell Jr., and activist lawyer Richard Ryles, are seeking the Democratic nomination to represent District 7. The winner will face off against Republican Leonard Serratore and two write-in candidates, Boaz Fleurena and Javonta Jerome Taylor. District 7 stretches from Riviera Beach and West Palm Beach southward, and includes parts of Palm Beach, Lantana, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach and Delray Beach. Bobby Powell: Housing affordability is top priority Bobby Powell Jr. is seeking the Democratic nomination to serve as county commissioner for District 7. Powell could not run again as he was term-limited. He says his experience in the state Legislature will be an asset for him should he be elected to the county commission, noting that commissioners often engage with state lawmakers and government agencies. Before serving in the state Senate, he was a member of the Florida House. If elected to the commission, he said he would make housing affordability a top priority. He also wants the county to do a better job treating mental-health related illnesses, which would help to alleviate the strain on hospitals and the criminal justice system. Another issue that must be addressed is traffic congestion throughout the county, especially on east to west routes, according to Powell. Richard Ryles: County's homeless problem must be addressed Richard Ryles is seeking the Democratic nomination to represent District 7 on the county commission. Richard A. Ryles, 61, is a longtime attorney and community activist, volunteering in literacy programs and fighting for better contracting opportunities for Black attorneys. He also has served as president of the West Palm Beach Housing Authority and won election to the West Palm Beach City Commission. Ryles would focus on addressing the homeless problem, which he said is prevalent throughout District 7. He would create a program to end homelessness by 2028. Permanent housing, and not just shelters, must be provided, according to Ryles. Map of District 7 in Palm Beach County Ryles would support a county first-time homebuyer program, as the median price of a home, $650,000, is out of reach for far too many Palm Beach County residents. Powell has thus far raised $234,911 and has spent nearly 75% of that money. Ryles has raised $176,148 but unlike Powell, Ryles has spent much less. Ryles has remaining balance of $128,735; Powell, $59,410. ELECTION PRIMARIES: Florida U.S. House races: Three GOP primaries in play for Palm Beach County districts ELECTION PRIMARIES: One Democrat, one Republican primary on Aug. 20 for state House districts Here's where the three other district openings stand: In District 1, no one challenged incumbent Commissioner Maria Marino in either the primary or the general election. She will serve another four-year term representing north county. In District 3, in the Greenacres-Palm Springs area, neither Republican incumbent Michael Barnett nor Democrat Joel Flores have primary opponents. They will face off against each other in November. In District 5, neither Democrat incumbent Maria Sachs nor Republican John Fischer have primary opponents. They will face off against each other in November for the south county seat. Mike Diamond is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. He covers Palm Beach County government. You can reach him at mdiamond@pbpost.com. Help support local journalism. Subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Bobby Powell, Richard Ryles compete for PBC commission seat in primary A handful of local businesses and Southern California organizations have voiced their support for the $42 million settlement the Palm Springs Section 14 Survivors proposed to the city in early July. The group, which represents families that used to live on a one-square-mile tract of land in downtown Palm Springs, says the letters show a coalition of support has formed for their fight for reparations for evictions that took place in the 1960s. Sent to the city and later shared with The Desert Sun by a spokesperson for the group, the letters are the latest step in years of settlement negotiations that are increasingly taking place in public. The talks are over the group's legal claim alleging the city bears responsibility for its part in the removal of residents and destruction of their homes. "These letters which are from some of the largest civil rights advocacy organizations in the United States all the way down to local businesses here in Palm Springs are an outpouring of support for the Section 14 Survivors and their fight for justice," lead attorney Areva Martin said in an email to The Desert Sun. "The letters are a reminder of how many people are watching this issue and standing with my clients on the right side of history." The groups range from the Baptist Ministers Conference of Los Angeles and Southern California, which says it represents 25,000 congregants, to Custom Care Solutions, a local home caregiver service. In total, four professional and civic organizations and five businesses sent letters to the city. "By agreeing to the proposed settlement, the City of Palm Springs can demonstrate to the nation that it values justice, fairness, and equal treatment for all its residents," wrote Jacob Sandoval, the state director for the California League of United Latin American Citizens. "This is a chance to show that Palm Springs recognizes its past and is ready to take action to create a more inclusive and equitable community." President and founder of the Section 14 Survivors group, Pearl Devers, 73, of Los Angeles, stands on Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians land where she lived as a child, in Palm Springs, Calif., on Saturday, May 19, 2024. The group is seeking compensation from the city for their part in the clearing of homes and property from the land in the 1960s. The city of Palm Springs has already committed to taking action to address the removals, which took place on tribal land at behest of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. However, the city rejected the group's previous $105 million proposal and itself offered $4.3 million to settle the claim. The city is sticking with its $4.3 million offer for now, saying in an email to The Desert Sun the figure is based on extensive research regarding the realistic present-day value of value of 145 abated properties. "The City continues to reach out to our Palm Springs community members and former Section 14 residents for additional documents and historical background regarding this matter," city spokesperson Amy Blaisdell said in the email. She added the city has started a historical context study and is launching other measures like a healing center, affordable housing and economic development initiatives. "These efforts will directly address the events of Section 14 while also attending to the needs of our Palm Springs community," she said. Debating in the public sphere The negotiations over the legal claim have increasingly moved from behind the closed doors of city hall to the public sphere. In addition to the back and forth over an appropriate settlement amount, billboards urging the city to accept the Section 14 Survivors' offer could be seen along the interstate near Palm Springs beginning in late 2023. The group called that publicity campaign an effort to educate people and gain support for their cause. The city criticized the billboards, which included the slogan "Know Before You Go," as an attempt to discourage tourists from visiting the city. The publicity could have benefits or consequences outside of the claim. Three of the businesses and organizations who wrote letters said they would consider bringing events and conferences to Palm Springs if the city accepts the July offer from Section 14 Survivors. Conversely, several groups worried about potential negative publicity along with the cost and emotional toll that would be generated by extended litigation. "These letters underscore the urgency of the situation and our supporters commitment to helping the city benefit from a settlement through expanded tourism opportunities, including within communities of color," Martin said. "Every proposal made by my clients has included opportunities for collaboration and to increase revenue for Palm Springs because they care about the economic well-being of the city and understand the importance of this moment." For decades, people of color lived on a tract of land known as Section 14 because racist housing laws prevented them from living elsewhere. At the time, federal law did not allow tribal land to be rented out for long periods. When federal law changed in the 1950s, the tribe initiated a long-term development plan to include more profitable use of the land. This resulted in the removal of short-term lease holders and the subsequent destruction of property. At issue in the settlement negotiations is precisely how many homes the city was involved in destroying. The city says it has evidence for city resources being used to destroy 145 homes, which would now be worth an estimated $30,000 each. The Section 14 Survivors have said the city should provide compensation for 350 families based on oral histories it has collected. The group has also stated the city has undervalued the present-day price of the homes, which should be $300,000 per family. Former residents of Section 14 filed a claim in 2022 which said the decades-old removals had denied the families of economic opportunities and caused lingering trauma. The claim was filed directly with the city rather than in court, although if there is no settlement the group could ultimately file a lawsuit. Martin said she was optimistic a resolution would be reached soon. Sam Morgen covers the city of Palm Springs for The Desert Sun. Reach him at smorgen@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Palm Springs Section 14 group cites growing support Work has already begun on the county bridge over a Palmetto Bay drainage canal that has divided suburban leaders, and now the mayor fighting the project has a new objection: Miami-Dade hiring the same contractor who had the contract for the fatal bridge collapse at Florida International University six years ago. Palmetto Bay Mayor Karyn Cunningham called for a special meeting for Thursday to decide on next steps after learning MCM is the country contractor that won a $4.5 million contract for the 66-foot-long bridge on Southwest 87th Avenue. MCM oversaw construction of the $14 million FIU bridge, which investigators said was doomed by a flawed design created by a different company that was part of MCMs bid for the state-funded effort. This is a direct threat to the safety of our families and our community, Cunningham wrote in a text sent to residents Sunday. As your Mayor, Im fighting to stop this dangerous project. READ MORE: Polarizing 87th Avenue bridge in South Dade heads to a crucial vote amid legal threats Federal investigators blamed the FIU bridges design flaw on FIGG, the engineering company on the project. MCM also received criticism for not acting on red flags in the lead-up to the March 15, 2018, collapse that killed six people, with a federal report citing the company, as well Floridas Department of Transportation and others on the project site, for failing to cease bridge work when the structure cracking reached unacceptable levels and to take appropriate action to close SW 8th Street as necessary to protect public safety. MCM filed for bankruptcy after the collapse and agreed to a $42 million payout to victims. It has also remained active in government contracts, including overseeing small construction projects at Miami International Airport, escalator replacements and roadwork. The county bridge would allow 87th Avenue to continue over a canal near Southwest 164th Street, creating a new north-south route between suburbs south of Palmetto Bay and the Miami area. While Palmetto Bay objected to the county plan to link 87th Avenue with a small bridge, office holders to the south in Cutler Bay endorsed the project. In a letter Monday to Cunningham, MCM asked the mayor to retract her claim that MCM was responsible for the FIU collapse and linked the email to the villages failed campaign to block the bridge. Most respectfully, casting aspersions on MCM integrity and capabilities is not right, wrote Eric Zichella, an MCM lobbyist. He wrote that since the FIU bridge collapse, MCM has presided over construction of 14 bridges across Florida. We trust that the Village will take the necessary steps to correct its factually incorrect statements... MCM won the Miami-Dade bridge contract through a bidding process used for small-dollar projects that didnt require approval by the County Commission. The administration of Mayor Daniella Levine Cava did not respond to requests for information on the bidding process Monday. A county document provided by MCM shows four companies bid on the 87th Avenue bridge contract, and MCM submitted the lowest price at about $4.5 million. A Pembroke Pines company, RJ Behar, is the designer of the bridge. In her email, Cunnigham asked residents to join her in urging Levine Cava to terminate this dangerous project. In an interview, Cunningham noted the village continues its court challenge of the bridge plan and said shes hoping Miami-Dade will put a hold on the project to address some of the questions the community is asking as it relates to public safety with this particular contractor. If those questions are answered, theyre answered, she said. I cant answer them. Because its not a Palmetto Bay contract. In a brief interview Monday Levine Cava, who is up for reelection Aug. 20, declined to get into specifics on the bridge. Im looking at everything here, she said. By Michel Rose PARIS (Reuters) - Parisians will swim in the River Seine by the foot of the Eiffel Tower next year, Paris City Hall has pledged, although the high bacteria levels that delayed Olympic triathlon events this summer have left some residents and tourists hesitant over diving in. France spent 1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion) turning a river frequently laden with sewage into one clean enough to swim in. Holding outdoor swimming events in the Seine would demonstrate its transformation to a global audience, Paris had hoped. The triathlon events did go ahead. But earlier torrential rains led to a spike in bacteria in the river beyond safe levels, forcing the cancellation of training sessions and a days-long delay to the men's race. That and Belgium's decision to withdraw its team from the mixed triathlon relay after an athlete fell ill - even if there was no proof the river water was to blame - have not helped convince doubters of the Seine's cleanliness. "I don't think we would swim in the river after all the coverage," said British tourist Jack Wolper after his young daughter and wife took a dip in Paris' Ourcq canal. "This felt a bit more acceptable but I don't think we'll be jumping in the Seine. If they delay an elite race by two days, that's reason enough for us not to go swimming," he added. Paris resident Pedro Couri, 29, said he would wait for President Emmanuel Macron to fulfil his promise of swimming in the Seine before having a go himself. "That might reassure me," he told Reuters. Others were more trusting in the Paris authorities. "It's reassuring that they postponed some races, it shows they don't take any risk with quality water," Jade Goasguen, 34, from the Paris suburb of Clichy said, adding she would happily try swimming in the Seine next year. 'PLAN A WORKED' The green light to hold the triathlon events hung on whether the concentration of the E.Coli and Enterococcus faecalis bacteria had fallen below European safe limit thresholds. However, some scientists have said a broader ranger of bacteria should be tested to be certain the river is safe. "E. coli doesn't reliably tell you when the water quality has recovered to a safe level, and I think that's the mistake that authorities in Paris have been making," said Professor Stuart Khan of the University of Sydney. Paris authorities say they comply with European safety guidelines and have been testing water in the Seine and other swimming facilities for years rigorously. Mayor Anne Hidlago and her team remain sanguine about their plans to open three swimming facilities along the Seine, including near the Notre-Dame cathedral and Eiffel Tower. "I've been asked 777 times whether we had a plan B, plan C, plan E. We had just plan A, we stuck to it and it worked," Pierre Rabadan, the official in charge of the Seine programme at City Hall told reporters. Funded by the government and Paris City Hall, the ambitious project to modernise the capital's sanitation system included digging new pipes to houses and houseboats that once pumped raw sewage into the river, additional treatment plants and a cavernous reservoir underneath the capital's Gare d'Austerlitz. More work will be done upstream by 2025 to ensure other houseboats and towns outside Paris do not pollute water going through the capital, Rabadan said. He added that Paris had faced a barrage of scepticism when it opened the Ourcq canal bathing facility, just outside the city centre, seven years ago, but that it had been a huge success in the end. "We'll soon have the same issue we had with other facilities: we won't have enough space for all the people who want to swim in the Seine next year," he added. ($1 = 0.9167 euros) (Reporting by Michel Rose and Clotaire Achi; Editing by Alexandra Hudson) Park Fire size drops Wednesday afternoon as the blaze still burns in eastern Tehama County 2:30 p.m. Wednesday: Park Fire size downgraded Cal Fire decreased the size of the Park Fire to 422,924 acres on Wednesday afternoon. Containment on the fire is still at 34%. 11:30 a.m. Wednesday: Park Fire tops 425,000 acres, containment stagnant Cal Fire said the Park Fire has grown about 5,000 acres since its early morning update. As of 11 a.m. Wednesday, the fire has burned 425,725 acres. Containment remains at 34%, Cal Fire said. "Some evacuation warnings have been upgraded in the area east of Mill Creek. Repopulation is also occurring in the lower portion of the fire. Please remain diligent as crews and equipment are working in those areas. Stay alert as evacuation updates remain dynamic," Cal Fire said. 10 a.m. Wednesday: Fire grows about 200 acres overnight Driven by hot and dry conditions, the Park Fire on Tuesday night continued to be a threat in eastern Tehama County, torching thousands of acres more just south of the mountain town of Mineral. The fire grew by about 200 acres overnight, officials said Wednesday. Since Monday night, the fire has grown by about 18,000 acres to 420,827 acres, or 657, square miles, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said Wednesday morning. Containment has not changed since the weekend and remains at 34%. Cal Fire reported the wildfire was active in the Mill Creek area and has spread, jumping Highway 172. All told, the Park Fire has already consumed 98,048 acres of Lassen National Forest. Residents evacuated by the fire are being allowed to return to their homes "where it is safe to do so, with multiple evacuation orders and warnings reduced recently in Butte, Shasta, and Tehama counties. Please remain diligent while crews and equipment continue working in these areas," Cal Fire said Wednesday. Meanwhile, Wednesday's weather forecast is expected to offer little relief. The temperature high could reach 90 degrees in the area. The hot weather continues through the week before there is a chance for slight cooling and higher humidity levels by the weekend. Meanwhile, the number of structures destroyed by fire has been slightly downgraded to 636 from 640, and there have been 49 structures damaged. Structures include homes, commercial and out-buildings. Those numbers could change again, though Cal Fire has said damage assessment teams have completed their work. Nearly 6,600 firefighters are battling the Park Fire. Original story 9:10 a.m. Tuesday: Park Fire grows by more than 12,000 acres; new evacuation orders in Tehama County After little growth over the weekend, the Park Fire took off Monday afternoon in eastern Tehama County and grew by more than 12,000 acres, burning through the Mill Creek area, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said. That growth prompted more evacuation orders in the county, Cal Fire said. As of Tuesday morning, the fourth-largest wildfire in state history has burned 414,042 acres. Containment on the blaze remains at 34%. Cal Fire said, the fire burned actively in heavy, receptive fuel beds, including abundant dead and down fuels in mature stands with more complete consumption in timber nursery stands, understory, and brush. The fire crossed Tamarack Road into the South Fork Antelope Creek drainage. Crews and aircraft worked aggressively to slow and contain the increased fire activity, Cal Fire said. The fire also was fueled by low humidity and hotter temperatures. More: Park Fire map: See how one of California's largest fires compares with historic wildfires While there were evacuations lifted in both Tehama and Butte Counties, there was one zone that was upgraded to an Evacuation Order west of the intersection of Highways 32 and 36 in Tehama County, Cal Fire said. Officials said the hot weather will continue through the week before there is a chance for slight cooling and higher humidity levels by the weekend. The Park Fire has destroyed 640 structures and damaged 52. Structures include homes, commercial and out-buildings. Those numbers may not go up as Cal Fire said Monday that damage assessment teams have completed their work. Meanwhile, Cal Fire has released a map that shows the structures that have been destroyed and damaged by the Park Fire. Lassen Volcanic National Park remains closed. The road through the park Highway 89, also is only open as an evacuation route, park official said. The Park Fire started July 24 in Upper Bidwell Park in Chico and rapidly spread north, racing through Tehama County, before it was stopped just shy of the Shasta County line. David Benda covers business, development and anything else that comes up for the USA TODAY Network in Redding. He also writes the weekly "Buzz on the Street" column. Hes part of a team of dedicated reporters that investigate wrongdoing, cover breaking news and tell other stories about your community. Reach him on X, formerly Twitter @DavidBenda_RS or by phone at 530-338-8323. To support and sustain this work, please subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Redding Record Searchlight: Park Fire size down to 422,924 acres, as containment stays steady Pelosi warns in her new book that political threats and violence 'must stop' FILE - Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., left, and her husband, Paul, watch during Game 4 in the first round of the NBA basketball playoffs between the Golden State Warriors and the Sacramento Kings in San Francisco, April 23, 2023. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File) WASHINGTON (AP) Nancy Pelosi thought briefly she might have died on Jan. 6, 2021. Not quite two years later, the threat of political violence would come for her husband at their home. Wheres Nancy? Wheres Nancy? That was the chilling question the intruder posed to Paul Pelosi before bludgeoning the then-82-year-old over the head with a hammer in their San Francisco house. It echoed the menacing jeers of the rioters roaming the halls of the Capitol calling out Nancy, Nancy on Jan. 6. The through line of escalating political rhetoric and violence in American public life serves as the opening and closing message of Pelosis new book, The Art of Power, My Story as Americas First Woman Speaker of the House. Pelosi recounts her nearly four-decade legislative record in Congress but also allows a rare public glimpse into the private devastation around the assault on her husband. With it, she delivers a grave warning that the casual mockery and mimicry of political violence in America is chasing a generation from public service. The current climate of threats and attacks must stop, Pelosi writes. We cannot ask people to serve in public life if the cost is risking the safety of their families and those they love. Pelosis book pages through familiar terrain for those who have followed the 84-year-olds career, rising from housewife to House member to House speaker. The steely California Democrat, the speaker emerita, is no longer in leadership but running for reelection to the House this fall. She twice won the speakers gavel, worked alongside seven presidents and, more recently, played a pivotal role in quietly convincing President Joe Biden to reassess his decision to remain in the 2024 presidential election rematch with Republican Donald Trump. Biden bowed out. But its the first and final chapters that bring a new element to the Pelosi era, detailing in personal and painstaking ways the toll that Americas violent strain is taking on civic life and public service. I dont know that we will ever feel safe, she writes. Written well before the July assassination attempt on Trump, Pelosis assessment of the nations dangerous discourse arrives after back-to-back congressional shootings of Republican Rep. Steve Scalise and earlier of Democratic former Rep. Gabby Giffords, and it serves as a walk-off warning in what could be among her final years in Congress. Pelosi recounts her disbelief at being pulled off the Speakers platform and out of the House chamber by security the afternoon of Jan. 6 as rioters sent by Trump stormed through the halls, some searching for her. I can handle it, she protested, telling U.S. Capitol Police she wanted to stay and finish the work as Congress was certifying the 2020 election. Their response was curt, she writes. 'No, you cant.' After being whisked away to safety at Fort McNair, she writes about huddling with Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, the three of them desperately calling the Pentagon to send National Guard troops to restore order at the Capitol. She describes House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, a Trump loyalist, as almost entirely unseen. So worried about the rioters' threats against Vice President Mike Pence in hiding at the Capitol, she called and told him, Dont let anybody know where you are. It still took three hours from the time I was dragged out of the House chamber for the Guard to arrive at the Capitol complex, she writes. It took about three and a half hours to clear the rioters from the building. Later, surveying the wreckage of broken glass and splintered wood, she was told of blood outside the Speakers Lobby. In some places, including her office, the mob had literally defecated on the floors and rugs, she wrote. What was left behind was pure destruction. She recalled being in war zones, and in Kyiv at the start of the Russian invasion thinking she may well die in Ukraine. I briefly thought the same on January 6," she wrote. When I became Speaker, I knew that I was making myself into a target, she writes. However, our accepting the risk is something that is fundamentally different for our families. Not quite two years later, she was awakened in the middle of the night by the Knock. Knock. Knock. Pound, Pound. Pound, of the Capitol Police security detail at her door in Washington. The officers expressions were grim, she writes. Its Mr. Pelosi. Hes been attacked in your home. Is he okay? We dont know. Is he alive? We dont know. Pelosi recounts the dizzying hours, frantic family phone calls and flight back to San Francisco, the hospital, the surgeries and the long recovery for her husband. Their youngest daughter said he looked like a bandaged-up Frankenstein. Her son, Paul Jr., went to the familys home to vacuum up the broken glass and clean up the blood. Her daughter Alexandra, who had been a high schooler when Pelosi first ran for Congress, told her, had she known what they were signing up for she would "never have given you my blessing. The attacker was tried, convicted and sentenced to prison. But Pelosi writes, the story of Pauls attack would not go away. Our home remains a heartbreaking crime scene, she wrote. Pelosi said her children told her that for a long time Paul would only sleep in the bedroom when she was there. He still suffers from headaches and dizzy spells, and she said she has seen him faint and fall twice from vertigo. As of February, she wrote, she was still changing bandages from surgery on his arm. But the true horror she writes was the dehumanizing jokes by Republicans from Trump on down, including the former presidents son, Donald Trump Jr., who posted a Paul Pelosi Halloween costume to social media, and the way the crowds would laugh, cheer, and applaud their cruel remarks. It made me profoundly sad for our country, she writes. Pelosi situates the two bloody episodes in the arc of her career, from the way Republicans vilified her in countless campaign ads from the time she first rose as Democratic leader to the way protesters spit on Democrats, including civil rights leader Rep. John Lewis, the day the House voted for the Affordable Care Act, to the severed pigs head left outside her familys home in the days before Jan. 6. Pelosi writes that when she speaks to young people about running for office, especially young women, too often I hear their reluctance to put their families in harms way." This is not the way our country should be if you engage in public service, you should not be a target, and your family should not be a target. When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Two U.S. pennies, seen as they were packaged for flight, are now the latest cents to fly into space on NASA missions. | Credit: NASA/collectSPACE.com They say a penny doesn't go far these days, to which NASA has now added its two cents. Two pennies lifted off for the International Space Station (ISS) on Sunday (Aug. 4), on a mission that will ultimately log millions of miles. The U.S. one-cent coins were launched on the "S.S. Francis R. 'Dick' Scobee," Northrop Grumman's 21st Cygnus cargo spacecraft, named in memory of the fallen commander of NASA's space shuttle Challenger. Sent skyward by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, the two pennies were a rare addition to the uncrewed capsule's 8,200 pounds (3,720 kilograms) of cargo. "The pennies are going to be used in what's called the 'Screaming Balloon' demonstration," said Michele Hooks, education project manager for NASA's Office of STEM Engagement, in an interview with collectSPACE.com. "A penny will get inserted in a deflated balloon, and then an astronaut will inflate the balloon and give it a whirl in order to compare it to a hex nut spun inside a second balloon." photo of a cylindrical spacecraft deploying from its rocket in orbit, with earth in the background The "STEMonstration" is the latest in a series of short educational videos filmed on the space station that are aimed at engaging grade school children in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) topics. Every STEMonstration is designed so that the students can reproduce the experiment in their classroom hence the use of pennies. "We wanted a simple thing that students could get access to and pennies are in abundance," said Hooks. Related: Facts about Cygnus, Northrop Grumman's cargo ship Search for cents Pennies are, indeed, easy to find, assuming you are happy with any random cent. For the coins now in space, Hooks and her team were a bit more selective. "We wanted pennies minted in 2024 to commemorate the year they were sent into space and the year the astronauts were on the station. We also wanted them to be shiny pennies, because they are going to be on camera," Hooks said. Checking her own spare change, Hooks did not have a 2024 penny. She then went to her local bank and, despite going through hundreds of pennies, could not find a cent that was minted this year. a plastic bag with several pennies and a yellow cylinder inside it rests on a table "The bank teller was giving me some strange looks until I explained, 'These are actually going to the space station, and I need to have them cleared tomorrow,'" Hooks said. "So then the teller started opening up different rolls of pennies and others started helping me. I don't know how many rolls we went through, but we could not find a single 2024 penny." Some of the tellers questioned if the U.S. Mint had struck pennies for this year. In fact, more than 800 million Lincoln cents were minted and had entered circulation by April. So Hooks put the call out at NASA and to her network of educators. "Who has a 2024 penny?" "I ended up getting a couple from folks who work at Johnson Space Center and then some from local teachers. I put them together, picked the shiniest ones and those are the two that went up," she said. Related: International Space Station Everything you need to know Penny population The two pennies now in space are not the first to leave Earth, but are still a rare "change" to what is typically launched. "From my research, I am aware of a U.S. penny flown on Apollo 11 (by Neil Armstrong, no less) [and] a couple of pennies flew on Apollo 14 one as part of a multi-coin set, and a 1948-D penny," said Richard Jurek, co-host of the "Two Space Collectors Collecting Space" podcast and founder of The Jefferson Space Museum, a website devoted to the history of the $2 bills that have orbited Earth or went to the moon. "On Apollo 15, a 1969-D penny and a 1970-D penny flew for members of the support crew. Also flown on this mission for support crew members was an 1845 Large Cent, and an Indian Head penny (date not known)," said Jurek. (The "D" is for Denver, one of the locations where the U.S. Mint strikes coins, in addition to Philadelphia ["P"] and San Francisco ["S"].) closeup of an open brown leather satchel containing eight pennies in a silver case The first penny flown into space might also be the oldest and most valuable. A 1793 Flowing Hair cent only the second style of penny issued by the U.S. was flown for a coin collector by way of the Gemini 7 crew's flight surgeon in 1965. The already rare one-cent piece, which was packed inside the mission's inflight medical kit (without NASA's prior knowledge), was sold at auction 50 years later for $82,250. In 1972, following a congressional investigation into the personal items carried by astronauts, NASA set a policy that crew members could not fly certain items, including coins, which "by their nature, lend themselves to exploitation by the recipients." The directive still stands today, so no astronaut on a U.S. mission has packed pennies in more than 50 years. The same restriction applies to the Official Flight Kit (OFK), a duffel bag-sized pouch of mementos that are flown by NASA and its partners, as well as the crew, for distribution to organizations and employees. But the policy does not apply to robotic explorers on one-way trips into space. closeup of a dusty 1909 penny The farthest-flown penny landed on Mars in 2012. The "red cent," called such because it soon became covered in Mars dust, was mounted to the calibration target for the Mars Hand Lens Imager (MAHLI) on NASA's Curiosity rover. Principal investigator Ken Edgett picked out and purchased the penny, a 1909 "VDB" cent, that includes the initials of the coin's designer (Victor David Brenner) and was minted on the centennial of President Abraham Lincoln's birth. Edgett attached it to the target as a "tip of the hat" to the informal practice by geologists of placing a coin (or other object of known scale) in their field photographs. RELATED STORIES: SpaceX launches private Cygnus cargo craft to ISS (video, photos) Track the ISS: How and where to see it Northrop Grumman names Cygnus cargo craft for fallen Challenger commander Cents for circulation Hooks said that she was unaware of any other pennies launched by the education office. As to the current pair, they may "enter circulation" aboard the space station. "With our educational items, in particular, we look at using them many times as we possibly can in novel ways," she said. "So I imagine you will see these pennies be repurposed as many times as we possibly can before they return back to Earth." Follow collectSPACE.com on Facebook and on Twitter at @collectSPACE. Copyright 2024 collectSPACE.com. All rights reserved. Pennsylvania driver tried to bite and kick Troopers after DUI crash, PSP says MIFFLIN COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A Pennsylvania woman is facing charges for allegedly trying to assault Pennsylvania State Police troopers after a crash in McVeytown Borough. According to Pennsylvania State Police, the 27-year-old Indiana County woman traveled over the curb while heading north near the area of 5696 US Hwy 522 South on July 30, side-swiping a utility trailer at the McVeytown Volunteer Fire Department before coming to rest in the roadway. The driver reportedly was operating a Ford Escape and allegedly showed signs of impairment. State Police says the driver fought troopers off as they took her into custody for DUI, allegedly biting and kicking as she attempted to resist arrest. According to court records, the woman is being charged with Resisting Arrest, Aggravated Assault, and Harassment. She was released on $50,000 bail. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. Spectris plc's (LON:SXS) healthy profit numbers didn't contain any surprises for investors. We think this is due to investors looking beyond the statutory profits and being concerned with what they see. View our latest analysis for Spectris How Do Unusual Items Influence Profit? For anyone who wants to understand Spectris' profit beyond the statutory numbers, it's important to note that during the last twelve months statutory profit gained from UK189m worth of unusual items. We can't deny that higher profits generally leave us optimistic, but we'd prefer it if the profit were to be sustainable. When we crunched the numbers on thousands of publicly listed companies, we found that a boost from unusual items in a given year is often not repeated the next year. Which is hardly surprising, given the name. Spectris had a rather significant contribution from unusual items relative to its profit to June 2024. All else being equal, this would likely have the effect of making the statutory profit a poor guide to underlying earnings power. That might leave you wondering what analysts are forecasting in terms of future profitability. Luckily, you can click here to see an interactive graph depicting future profitability, based on their estimates. Our Take On Spectris' Profit Performance As we discussed above, we think the significant positive unusual item makes Spectris' earnings a poor guide to its underlying profitability. As a result, we think it may well be the case that Spectris' underlying earnings power is lower than its statutory profit. The silver lining is that its EPS growth over the last year has been really wonderful, even if it's not a perfect measure. At the end of the day, it's essential to consider more than just the factors above, if you want to understand the company properly. Keep in mind, when it comes to analysing a stock it's worth noting the risks involved. Case in point: We've spotted 2 warning signs for Spectris you should be mindful of and 1 of these is potentially serious. Today we've zoomed in on a single data point to better understand the nature of Spectris' profit. But there are plenty of other ways to inform your opinion of a company. For example, many people consider a high return on equity as an indication of favorable business economics, while others like to 'follow the money' and search out stocks that insiders are buying. While it might take a little research on your behalf, you may find this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks with significant insider holdings to be useful. Story continues Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan, and nonprofit newsroom producing investigative and public-service journalism that holds power to account and drives positive change in Pennsylvania. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro has not been tapped to run for vice president on the Democratic ticket with Kamala Harris, according to the Associated Press. Shapiro, 51, a centrist Democrat, was passed over for Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, the AP reported citing multiple sources. Hes still expected to speak at a Harris rally in Philadelphia this evening. Harris decision ends weeks of intense vetting and speculation, and comes shortly before the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. There, Harris will take President Joe Bidens place as the Democratic presidential nominee following Bidens momentous decision to drop out of the race and forgo a potential second term in the White House. Shapiro quickly emerged as a lead contender for the No. 2 spot on the ticket. Hes a popular chief executive in a must-win state for Democrats. Shapiro has won three statewide elections, including races for attorney general in 2016 and 2020, outperforming Biden in the latter. But his critics resurrected some of the more controversial and embarrassing episodes in his political career, including lingering questions about how he handled a sexual harassment complaint against a top advisor. After a key aide and longtime political ally was accused of sexual harassment during Shapiros first year in office, his administration quietly negotiated and paid out a $295,000 settlement. The aide resigned three weeks later. The National Womens Defense League, a nonprofit that seeks to prevent sexual harassment, called on the Harris campaign to consider Shapiros handling of the incident. The American people deserve to know that, if called to a higher office, Governor Shapiro will do more to ensure the safety and dignity of employees, volunteers and constituents in his office, the group said in a statement. The vetting also rekindled tension over the incident at home. While some Democrats publicly defended Shapiros handling of the issue, others joined the criticism, as did Republicans. State Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward, a frequent opponent, posted on social media that the incident showed a general disrespect for women. Shapiros stance on Israel and its war in Gaza also came under intense scrutiny. An observant Conservative Jew, Shapiro has frequently said that his faith has played prominently into his decision to enter and remain in public service. He is a vocal supporter of Israel, telling the New York Times earlier this year that he is pro-the idea of a Jewish homeland, a Jewish state, and I will certainly do everything in my power to ensure that Israel is strong and Israel is fortified and will exist for generations. In Harrisburg, he has shown this by hosting official events with Israeli survivors of Hamas Oct. 7 attack and backing a bill to strip state funding from any college that divests from Israel. As attorney general, Shapiro also supported using a state law that targets companies that participate in the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement to punish Ben & Jerrys. And amid rising protests against the war, the Shapiro administration updated the offices code of conduct to bar scandalous conduct. An email accompanying the policy cited social media posts, boycotts, graffiti, and public confrontations as examples of potential hate speech that would not be tolerated. However, Shapiro has also criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him one of the worst leaders of all time early this year. As the vetting continued, The Inquirer unearthed an opinion article Shaprio wrote as a student at the University of Rochester, in which he described Palestinians as too battle-minded to be able to establish a peaceful homeland of their own. A spokesperson said Shapiros stance has changed over the past three decades. In that same article, Shapiro wrote that he was a past volunteer in the Israeli army. His spokesperson told Spotlight PA in a statement, At no time was he engaged in any military activities. While he was in high school, Josh Shapiro was required to do a service project, which he and several classmates completed through a program that took them to a kibbutz in Israel where he worked on a farm and at a fishery, the spokesperson said. The program also included volunteering on service projects on an Israeli army base. Shapiros support for taxpayer-funded private school vouchers made him a target of powerful unions and progressive groups. He first publicly voiced support for the idea while running for governor in 2022. Last year, the state Senate passed a $100 million voucher plan that GOP leadership said had been crafted with Shapiro. Democrats privately said they were blindsided by the move and refused to give their support to the proposal. Despite Shapiros efforts to assuage members of his party, the governor was forced to abandon the plan, though he still supports the idea. United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain called Shapiros support of vouchers troubling in an interview with the Detroit News. We all know what the voucher system is, Fain said. Its a system where the rich people can have the taxpayers fund their kids private education. BEFORE YOU GO If you learned something from this article, pay it forward and contribute to Spotlight PA at spotlightpa.org/donate. Spotlight PA is funded by foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results. The latest home invasion to strike the San Fernando Valley happened in Encino early Monday morning. According to preliminary information, Los Angeles Police Department officers responded to a home on Firmament Avenue off Ventura Boulevard at 12:30 a.m. The residents who were home at the time called police and reported hearing glass breaking, and video from the scene shows what appears to be one of the homes back doors completely shattered. The home is behind a gate and has security cameras and an alarm system, but that did not stop the suspect or suspects from trying to break in. Neighbor opens fire on San Fernando Valley burglars with pepperball gun It is not known what, if anything, was taken during Monday nights incident, but according to police, the suspect or suspects were likely spooked by something and fled the area quickly. Frightened residents told KTLA Monday that the alarming rash of burglaries across the area is extremely worrying and downright traumatizing. It is scary, and it is traumatizing to know if you are going home [that you might not] have security, Encino resident Stephanie Rosenthal told KTLA 5s Kimberly Cheng, adding that shes started taking pictures of suspicious vehicles in her neighborhood. You just dont know your surroundings, and people are watching when people are coming and going. Metro buses will soon begin automatically ticketing parking violators on these routes A neighbor told Cheng that he is looking into private security for his neighborhood, and another man who has lived in Encino for 20 years said he has never seen anything like this string of burglaries, calling the incidents ridiculous. In order to combat the string of home invasions, residents are banding together, sharing surveillance footage and remaining in constant communication with their neighbors. Some area residents have installed more security cameras and alarm systems as precautions as well, but they ultimately believe that the safety problem rests in the hands of elected officials. It takes a whole village to get this under control, another Encino resident, Aaron Weinberg, said. We need our politicians to step up, the police to step up and the DA to step up [because] people need to be held accountablethis isnt a free rideyou cant just walk into someones house and steal. At least eight burglaries were reported in the Valley in July, and another two homes were targeted Thursday; no suspects in any of home invasions are believed to be in custody. Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity at or near their home is urged to contact the LAPD. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. UPDATE (7:58 p.m.) A parked service vehicle was struck by a car causing both to catch on fire, killing the driver of the car, according to an updated news release from ISP. The driver of the car left the roadway and struck the service vehicle that was parked on the right shoulder of Interstate 55. The service vehicle driver was taken to a local hospital for injuries. It is unknown how serious the drivers injuries are. The identity of the deceased will be released after next-of-kin are notified. All lanes were reopened a little before 6 p.m. The crash remains under investigation by ISP and the McLean County Coroners Office. BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (WMBD) Illinois State Police said one person is dead after a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 55 near Bloomington on Tuesday. According to state police, troopers responded to the crash at approximately 1:58 p.m. near mile marker 158. Frank Friend, a spokeswoman with the Bloomington Fire Department, said crews responded to the scene and extinguished a car fire at the scene. The fire was out within a couple of minutes. Man dead after single-vehicle crash near Downs State police said one person was pronounced dead at the scene as a result of the crash. Southbound lanes of I-55 are currently closed. They are expected to remain closed for an extended period. As of 3:30 p.m., traffic is backed up five miles to milepost 163, according to ISP. Drivers are encouraged to find alternate routes. There were no further details regarding what led up to the crash. There were no other reported injuries. State police had no other information to provide at this time. This story will be updated. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) A person was killed Monday afternoon after their vehicle ran off a Georgetown County road and struck a tree, authorities said. It happened just before 3:30 p.m. on Squirrel Run Road about 17 miles outside of Georgetown. The driver of a pickup truck traveling northbound left the roadway and struck a tree. No further information was immediately available. Count on News13 for updates. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) Meharry Medical College, a historically Black medical school in Nashville, has received the largest donation in its nearly 150-year school history. The college was awarded $175 million from philanthropist and former New York City Mayor Michael Bloombergs organization Bloomberg Philanthropies, officials announced Tuesday, Aug. 6. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts According to the medical school, the donation is believed to be the largest in Meharrys history and will help diversify the medical field and train the next generation of doctors. Today is a momentous day for Meharry Medical College, elevating and accelerating our mission to serve the underserved of our nation and world, said Meharry Medical College President and CEO Dr. James E.K. Hildreth. Meharry holds a distinct place in the health care infrastructure as the oldest and largest independent historically Black academic health sciences center in the nation. For nearly 150 years, Meharrians have committed their lives to eliminating disparities and improving health equity, often in the face of significant discrimination, injustice and adversity. This historic investment by Bloomberg Philanthropies is a testament to Meharrys legacy and to the promise of Meharrians to transform the future of health care for the betterment of all. | READ MORE | Latest headlines from Nashville and Davidson County The $175 million donation is reportedly part of Bloomberg Philanthropies $600M investment that goes toward historically Black medical schools. In addition to Meharry, officials said Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science, Howard University College of Medicine and Morehouse School of Medicine also received donations. Bloomberg Philanthropies said the funding is part of their Greenwood Initiative, which seeks to advance racial wealth equity by addressing systemic underinvestment in Black institutions and communities. We have much more to do to build a country where every person, regardless of race, has equal access to quality health care and where students of all backgrounds have an equal opportunity to pursue their dreams, said Bloomberg. Diversifying the medical field and tackling health inequality are society-wide challenges, and Bloomberg Philanthropies is committed to helping to lead the way in tackling them. This gift builds on our earlier investment in these vital institutions, and it will help new generations of Black doctors build a healthier and more equitable future for our country. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Meharry Medical College was founded in 1876 and includes five schools: the School of Medicine, the School of Dentistry, the School of Graduate Studies, the School of Applied Computational Sciences and the School of Global Health. This is not the first major donation the medical school has received from Bloomberg Philanthropies. According to Meharry, the organization made a $34 million investment to the medical school in 2020. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Above: A Nexstar video on resources available to crime victims. OCEANSIDE, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) A teenager was detained last week after a concealed cell phone was found filming patrons in the bathroom of an Italian restaurant in Oceanside, police said in a release on Monday. The suspected video recording was first reported just before 6 p.m. on Wednesday at Dominics Italian on 268 Harbor Drive South, according to Oceanside police spokesperson Heather Mitchell. Upon arrival, Oceanside police officers contacted three adults and a teenager who were believed to be victims of the non-consensual recording. Two of the victims had found a cell phone, which appeared to have been filming video of people in the bathroom, inside a storage container. San Dieguito school district sued after employee arrest for suspected child abuse Mitchell said the victims who discovered the phone informed the manager of Dominics. It was then discovered that the cell phone belonged to a teenage employee of the restaurant. According to police, the teenager, whose identity has not been disclosed, was detained by officers briefly. They were later released into the custody of their family. An investigation into the incident remains ongoing. Mitchell said detectives with the departments Family Protection unit, who is leading the probe, are currently attempting to identify any other victims. The identities of the known victims are similarly being withheld by law enforcement at this time. Anyone with information that may aid in the investigation is asked to contact OPD Detective Liciana Del Castillo by phone at 760-435-4377 or email at LDelcastillo@oceansideca.org. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. Related video: Widespread flooding in Florida from Tropical Storm Debby | Tracking the Tropics SARASOTA, Fla. (WFLA) The worst of Tropical Storm Debby has passed the Tampa Bay area, but that doesnt mean the communities hardest hit by the storm have returned to normal. The Sarasota County Sheriffs Office shared photos on Facebook showing deputies being deployed to areas that continue to see heavy flooding. Credit: Sarasota County (FL) Sheriffs Office Credit: Sarasota County (FL) Sheriffs Office Sheriffs deputies continue to deploy throughout the county to assist residents and address critical incidents left in the wake of #TropicalStormDebby #HurricaneDebby, the Facebook post reads. The photos show areas of Bahia Vista and McIntosh Road, with the roadways underwater and some vehicles trapped. The sheriffs office asked residents to follow safety guidelines as the community waits for the waters to recede. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. Students walk towards the doors on the first day of school at the Shwab Elementary School in Nashville, Tenn., Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Colorful backpacks dotted the crowds of students and families as teachers and school staff welcomed kids back to school across Middle Tennessee. The first wave of back-to-schoolers started Aug. 1 at Lebanon Special School District, followed by others in surrounding districts in the days that followed. In true Tennessee style, the lingering summer weather and humidity drove heat indexes north of 100 degrees for some on their first day. Our Tennessean photojournalists fanned out across three districts to capture the back-to-school fun. A rebuilt West Wilson Middle School reopens after 2020 tornado At West Wilson Middle School, the first day marked more than just a new semester. It also celebrated the long-awaited reopening of the school after it was destroyed during a deadly outbreak of tornadoes in March 2020. Nobody was injured at the school, which was empty as the tornadoes swept through overnight. Clovercroft Elementary School welcomes students first first day On Monday, a steady stream of buses and cars dropped of students at Clovercroft Elementary School in Franklin as the new semester got underway for Williamson County Schools. Back-to-school at Shwab Elementary First thing Tuesday morning, kids made their way to Shwab Elementary in Nashville to help kick off the start of the Metro Nashville Public Schools semester. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Back-to-school in Middle TN: See photos as kids kick off new year Brian Earley kisses his wife, Kristin Earley, after he and his crew safely touch down on the tarmac at the Shelby-Cleveland County Regional airport Friday morning, Aug. 2, 2024. As the sun burned off the thick layer of fog shrouding the Shelby-Cleveland County Regional Airport Friday morning, a white plane with the words United States of America emblazoned across the body circled the runway before coming in for a landing. The waiting crowd applauded as a Shanghai Firetruck created an arch with a spray of water which the plane came through for a ceremonial water salute. Pilot Brian Earley was celebrated Friday with the ceremonial gesture for his final retirement flight from the U.S. Army Reserves. Earley, who has been serving in the military for more than 21 years and currently flies for JetBlue, was welcomed by a waiting crowd of friends and family as he descended down the steps of the plane. His wife, Kristin Earley, was waiting with a bottle of champagne that she opened and sprayed him with in military tradition. Jack Poole, airport supervisor, said Earley flew in on a King Air 200. Ive been here 13 years, and Ive never seen this before, he said. Kristin Earley said they are from Kentucky and the family of four - including their two sons - relocated to the Shelby area two years ago. They chose Shelby because they knew a local family, and Kristin said her husband flies out of Boston for work and since there are frequent Boston flights from Charlotte, it was an easier commute than from where they were living in Cincinnati previously. She said for Fridays flight, he was flying in from Fort Liberty, formerly called Fort Bragg, which is a 45-minute flight away. The crowd, which had gathered to greet him, waited for a thick cover of fog to clear before he could land. Hes been in the military for over 21 years, Kristin Earley said. Im very excited. Very proud. She said he has been flying for the Army since 2010, and they are eager to start a new chapter. She said members of his family arrived for the occasion, and friends flew in from Texas as a surprise. A reception was held at Poplar Springs Baptist Church following the final flight. Reporter Rebecca Sitzes can be reached at rsitzes@gannett.com. Brian Earley is drenched by his friend, Jesse Fleming, and his wife, Kristin Earley, after he and his crew safely touch down on the tarmac at the Shelby-Cleveland County Regional airport Friday morning, Aug. 2, 2024. Family and friends applaud as Brian Earley and his crew safely touch down on the tarmac at the Shelby-Cleveland County Regional airport Friday morning, Aug. 2, 2024. Kristin Earley watches as her husband, Brian Earley, and his crew safely touch down on the tarmac at the Shelby-Cleveland County Regional airport Friday morning, August 2, 2024. This article originally appeared on The Shelby Star: Pilot completes final, ceremonial flight at Shelby airport The Greyhound bus service has moved its stop to the current CCTA stop in downtown Plattsburgh, leaving many officials and members of the public outraged. The old stop was at the Mountain Mart on Route 9, but is now outside the Government Center. County officials claim that the mayor made a deal with Greyhound on his own, but the mayor says that isnt the case at all. Many are also claiming that Greyhound just isnt willing to pay to operate a proper facility. On Monday, frustrations escalated into a protest at the bus stop, and local officials called for action from Greyhound. David J. Souliere IV, City of Plattsburgh Republican Chair and concerned citizen, hosted the protest, calling for the mayor and Greyhound to come up with a new location for the bus stop. Souliere said The protest today is to call upon the mayor today to take immediate action. This needs to be resolved. As you can see, there are no usable facilities here. There are no bathrooms, no shelter to get out of the rain, snow, warm weather or cold weather. The protest lasted about an hour, and ended with a sort of standoff. Police urged Souliere to retreat as he sat in the road, all while the Greyhound bus driver was on the phone with corporate. Protesters went to city hall afterwards to urge the mayor to take action. Meanwhile, Town of Plattsburgh Supervisor Michael Cashman demanded a call to action for Greyhound. Cashman told us that It is both unethical and really a moral issue that they have chosen not to either lease or buy a property that provides the opportunity for customers coming inward and outward-bound to be safe from the elements. Its not the county. Its not the city, or other municipalities. It really is Greyhound. They have abdicated their responsibility to have a location that serves its customers, protects its customers and doesnt put undue burden on resources within the region. When we last spoke with Greyhound officials in July, we were told that they are pleased to serve Plattsburgh at the current location. They have not released a statement about the recent protests. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. (Reuters) -Spirit AeroSystems said on Monday its quarterly losses more than doubled as 737 fuselage shipments to its biggest customer Boeing fell and losses mounted on its Airbus A220 program. Net loss for the second quarter widened to $415 million from a loss of $206 million, an indication of Spirit's fragile finances and the importance of Boeing's deal to buy back the supplier it spun off in 2005. Spirit said its results were hit by delivery delays on Boeing's strong-selling 737 MAX jet, which saw slower production following a mid-air panel blowout in January. Shares of the supplier were down 2.2% after the bell. Spirit delivered 27 737 fuselages in the quarter through June 27, lower than it anticipated and sharply down from the 74 it delivered in the year-ago period. The company has struggled to stem losses and stabilize cash flows following troubles at Boeing. Its ability to deliver clean 737 fuselages without quality problems will be key for Boeing, which expects to produce the jets at a rate of 38 a month by year-end. The U.S. supplier has also lost money on Airbus' A220 program on higher costs. During the second quarter, Spirit recorded $25 million of forward losses on the program. Overall, it recorded net forward losses of $214 million in the period. The company said it has developed plans to pursue various options to improve liquidity, as it burnt $597 million in cash. Analysts on average expected a cash burn of $169 million, according to LSEG data. Spirit said it borrowed $200 million under a bridge term loan facility last month. Adjusted loss per share was $2.73, wider than expectations of 90 cents. Quarterly revenue of $1.49 billion missed analysts' estimate of $1.59 billion. (Reporting by Abhijith Ganapavaram in Bengaluru and Allison Lampert in Montreal; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar) Plea entered for Dayton man accused of dragging child DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) The man accused of dragging a child with his vehicle appeared Tuesday for arraignment. On Aug. 1, Atkinson was indicted on several charges related to the reported July 22 incident. Man accused of hitting, dragging child with vehicle in Dayton indicted In court, a not guilty plea was entered on behalf of Jeffrey Atkinson, 55, of Dayton. A cash bond of $250,000 was set by the court. Atkinson is also prohibited from having contact with the alleged victim. The accused man is expected to return to court for his scheduling conference on Thursday, Aug. 22 at 1 p.m. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. HARRISBURG, Pa. (WTAJ) After a Federal Court deemed Google a monopolist that has unlawful search engine practices, Attorney General Michelle Henry said she is pleased. The U.S. District Court of Columbia ruled in United States v. Google that the company violated antitrust law by spending billions of dollars to create an illegal monopoly. The ruling comes as a major decision in a list of cases taking on alleged monopolies against Big Tech in the U.S. Google has carved out a mega online presence that influences users to view and use their products by thwarting competition from rival search engines through exclusive agreements making Google the default search engine on popular devices and browsers. By design and definition, that is a monopoly, Henry said. We are pleased with the federal courts finding that those practices exist and are harmful to consumers. We will continue, with our state and federal partners, to pursue litigation that offers a more level playing field and consumers with a full range of options. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. In the past few years, antitrust regulators have also sued Amazon, Apple and Meta, claiming they have illegally maintained monopolies as well. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. PnB Rock at Firefly Music Festival on June 16, 2018 in Dover, DE. - Credit: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images PnB Rocks mother averted her eyes and wiped tears Monday as a prosecutor displayed an autopsy photo of her son during closing arguments in the trial of two men charged in connection with the rappers 2022 murder. I wasnt prepared for those pictures. Its very devastating. I never wanted to see those pictures, Deannea Allen told Rolling Stone as she left the courthouse in Compton, Calif., on the ninth and final day of testimony in the case. The mother said she only learned about the start of the trial from social media and moved mountains to travel from Philadelphia to attend in person before it ended. More from Rolling Stone Im here to get justice. I want justice. This was my son, my child, Deannea said of the acclaimed musician, born Rakim Allen. I want the jury to know he has a family who loves him and wants to support him. I learned a lot today. In his closing argument, Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney Timothy Richardson urged jurors to convict defendants Freddie Trone and Tremont Jones for their alleged roles in the high-profile homicide. Richardson argued that Trone, 42, should be found guilty of murder because he knew his 17-year-old son was impulsive and dangerous and allegedly still sent him inside a Roscoes Chicken and Waffles restaurant in South Los Angeles on Sept. 12, 2022, with a loaded semi-automatic firearm and a mandate to rob Allen and his fiancee. Testifying in his own defense on Friday and again Monday, Trone denied the claim by prosecutors that he was his sons getaway driver. He testified that he left the Roscoes parking lot in his Buick Enclave around 1:14 p.m. that day, but that it was a different driver who was behind the wheel six minutes later when the vehicle returned and his son jumped out and walked into the Roscoes wearing a ski mask. Trones defense lawyer, Winston McKesson, said his client steadfastly denies driving his teen son back to Roscoes before the shooting. Speaking to reporters on Monday, McKesson said that Trone claims he departed the Roscoes parking lot, drove to the beauty supply shop he owned about two minutes away, put his keys on the counter, went to use the bathroom, and returned to find that his keys and his son were missing. Trone alleges that after the shooting, someone he wont identify drove him in a burgundy SUV to a parking lot where he located his son and other individuals with his Buick Enclave, McKesson said. The defense lawyer also said that Trones co-defendant in the case, Tremont Jones, didnt hand Trone a gun in the parking lot before the shooting, as prosecutors allege. Trone maintains that the object retrieved by Jones and handed to him under a towel in view of a Roscoes surveillance camera was simply a bag of marijuana, McKesson said. His lies are ridiculous. That is ridiculous. The surveillance should speak for itself, Deannea told Rolling Stone after hearing about Trones claims related to the burgundy SUV. In his closing on Monday, Richardson said jurors should question why Trone refused to give the name of the person who drove him in the burgundy SUV to find his son. This is the same time that a robbery and a murder is being committed, and you dont want to tell the jury who [the driver] is? Its because they dont exist. Its another lie, Richardson argued Monday. He wants you to just accept what he says. Hes repeatedly lying to your face. McKesson told reporters that Trone refused to identify his driver to protect the person after Trones wife, and then his mistress, both were charged as accessories after the fact in the case. Both women pleaded no contest under deals with prosecutors. The women in this case, at least they took responsibility. But the men, theyre not trying to deal with it. Theyre trying to say they had nothing to do with it, Deannea scoffed outside the courthouse. Its unacceptable. My son was a beautiful person. He tried to take care of everyone. Our last conversation was a half-hour when he was on his way to California. He told me about all the good things he was doing. He was just trying to be better, a little more conscious. McKesson and the defense lawyer for Jones are due to give their closing arguments in the case on Tuesday. Trone and Jones have pleaded not guilty and deny any wrongdoing. Trone is charged with murder, two counts of robbery, and one count of conspiracy to commit robbery. Jones is facing two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy. Jurors were instructed Monday that Jones, 46, is no longer facing a firearms charge that was mentioned during opening statements. The alleged shooter in the case has been charged as a juvenile. As Rolling Stone first reported, his prosecution has been placed on hold due to a finding that he lacks the necessary competency to follow a criminal proceeding. On Monday, Richardson said during his closing argument that the teen had a mental health diagnosis, substance abuse issues and a criminal history. Freddie Trone knew the dangers of sending his 17-year-old son in there with a ski mask, semiautomatic weapon and mission, Richardson argued. He said that during testimony, Trone admitted, My son is dangerous. The prosecutor further argued that Trones alleged arson of the Buick Enclave a few blocks away from his residence and his alleged attempt to hide out in Las Vegas after the murder showed his consciousness of guilt. Allens stunning death rocked the hip-hop community. The Philadelphia-bred artist became a breakout star in 2016 with his triple-platinum single Selfish. That same year, Rolling Stone named him a New Artist You Need to Know. He went on to reach crossover fame with his 2019 feature on Ed Sheerans Cross Me. After the slaying, Allens fiancee Stephanie Sibounheuang faced a barrage of accusations online that her post about their meal at the Roscoes restaurant that day led the shooter to their location. When Sibounheuang testified during the trial last week, the since-deleted post was shown to the jury. It didnt specify which Roscoes location she was at and only showed her food. That social media post was a big issue, but if you think about, on that post, theres no image of jewelry. Theres no image of PnB Rock, Richardson said. For all the universe knew, Stephanie was with her girlfriends. Stephanie was with her child. Stephanie was with her mother. This post doesnt give you a reasonable inference, but the defense wants you to believe the entire universe knew PnB Rock was at [the Roscoes] at Manchester [Ave.] and Main [Street]. In her harrowing testimony, Sibounheuang gave her firsthand account of how the hip-hop star pushed her out of the way to save her life when the young shooter opened fire on the couple inside the restaurant just minutes after they received their food. She said the gunman appeared out of nowhere and demanded the couple hand over their jewelry, which she estimated was worth about half a million dollars. She said the gunman told Allen he would execute Sibounheuang first if the musician didnt comply. He said, If you dont give me the jewelry, Im going to blow her head off, Sibounheuang told jurors. She said the shooter again demanded, Give me the fucking jewelry, and appeared to be inexperienced, like a kid who didnt know what he was doing. He had the gun on my mans face, on it, touching it, she recalled. She said Allens only movements were to put both hands in the air, with his palms facing out, before he turned his attention to protecting her. He got shot, and he like pushed me to the wall and threw me under the table. The [gunman] just kept shooting. I was telling him, Stop shooting him, are you trying to kill him? Sibounheuang said the shooter leaned over and began removing jewelry from Allens body. She recalled reaching into her bag to find her phone to call for help. He said, Whoa, whoa, what are you grabbing? He was pointing his gun at me. I think he thought I had a gun, she testified. I thought I was dead. Best of Rolling Stone SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) A body found in a Glendale neighborhood apartment has sparked a homicide investigation led by the Salt Lake City Police Department. The investigation started just before midnight on Monday, Aug. 5, when the Salt Lake City Police Department received a call about an unresponsive man at an apartment complex near 1600 West Snow Queen Place. Upon arrival, police say they found a 41-year-old man with a life-threatening gunshot wound. Paramedics and first responders made life-saving efforts, but the man died on the scene due to his injuries. The mans identity has not been released pending confirmation and notification of next-of-kin. One person killed in West Haven police shooting The Salt Lake City Police Department said the deadly shooting remains under investigation, though it appears to be an isolated incident. No arrests have been made and police have not release information about potential suspect. Investigators said there does not appear to be any imminent danger to the community. Anyone who may have information about the shooting, including any photos or video, is asked to call the Salt Lake City Police Department at 801-799-3000. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through the City Protect App. All tips should reference case number 24-178422. The Salt Lake City Police Department said this is the seventh homicide in Salt Lake City in 2024. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. Police asking for help in locating man who allegedly stole from Fresno business FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) Fresno Police are asking for the communitys help locating a man who allegedly stole from a local AutoZone. Officers say on July 9 the suspect allegedly stole over $2,000 in merchandise from the AutoZone on 4210 East Belmont Avenue in Fresno. The man is described as being a middle-aged man with sleeve tattoos. He was seen wearing red shorts, a red Raiders hat, black shoes, and a black Nike shirt. Do you know me Anyone with information regarding the suspects identity or whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Mohit Kumar of the Southeast Policing District by email at Mohit.Kumar@fresno.gov or by phone at 559-621-2119. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47. Man who broke into multiple cars shot to death in NW Atlanta A man was shot to death after police said he was breaking into cars in northwest Atlanta. Police said that just before 3:45 a.m., officers responded to a shooting on Bishop St. After arriving, officers found a man sitting in the drivers seat of a Gray Jeep in the parking lot with a gunshot wound to the head. Officers said the man was not alert or conscious, but he was breathing. He was then taken to the hospital in critical condition, where he later died. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] A police investigation determined that the man might have been involved in multiple larcenies on Peachtree Road in Buckhead. Officers believe the man then arrived at Bishop St. where he broke into two more cars. The man who died has not been identified. Officers are investigating his death as homicide. Channel 2 Action News has reached out to Atlanta police to learn more about this shooting TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) Officers and a local business jumped into action to help rescue two dogs and a kitten Monday afternoon at Walmart. Central PA Humane Society police, Allegheny Township police, Walmart associates and Professionals Auto Body teamed up to take care of some furry friends who were stranded and alone on a hot day. First, they had to deal with removing two dogs from a parked vehicle. Its unknown at this time if any charges will be filed as they investigate. After rescuing them, they were flagged down by a woman who saw a small kitten crawl into the engine of the car parked next to her. Photo: Central PA Humane Society Police Department Photo: Central PA Humane Society Police Department Photo: Central PA Humane Society Police Department Photo: Central PA Humane Society Police Department Photo: Central PA Humane Society Police Department While it eventually jumped out, it ran across the parking lot and under another vehicle. Professionals stepped in with the assist to lift the vehicle with their tow truck. The humane society police thanked everyone for their help. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. (KTLA) Police were performing what authorities called a proactive check on a former Marine Corps air station Friday in Irvine, California when they found a makeshift living space containing a large cache of allegedly stolen items. In a post to social media, police said the alleged trespassers were at the former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro. The suspects decked out a room in the hangar complete with disco lights, a fog machine and what appeared to be a music recording studio along with more traditional home furniture like a couch and TV. Two people were arrested after allegedly creating a makeshift living space in the former Marine Air Station El Toro in Irvine. Several stolen items including bikes and airsoft rifles were found. (Irvine Police Department) Two people were arrested after allegedly creating a makeshift living space in the former Marine Air Station El Toro in Irvine. Several stolen items including bikes and airsoft rifles were found. (Irvine Police Department) Two people were arrested after allegedly creating a makeshift living space in the former Marine Air Station El Toro in Irvine. Several stolen items including bikes and airsoft rifles were found. (Irvine Police Department) Two people were arrested after allegedly creating a makeshift living space in the former Marine Air Station El Toro in Irvine. Several stolen items including bikes and airsoft rifles were found. (Irvine Police Department) Car batteries powered all of the equipment inside, police said. In addition to the night-club like atmosphere, there were several items inside the room, some allegedly stolen. They included 11 bicycles, numerous spools of copper wire, an illegal M-800 firework, personal property from Irvine residents, two airsoft rifles and drug paraphernalia. Two Anaheim residents, 29-year-old Joshua Micheal Rosario and 53-year-old Patricia Lynn Ratliff, were arrested on warrants and other charges. Rosario was also arrested on suspicion of burglary and drug possession. Irvine police said the pair had been cited or arrested multiple times before on suspicion of trespassing at El Toro. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) The Cranston Police Department is preparing to say goodbye to one of its beloved K-9s. In a social media post shared Monday, the police department announced K-9 Blesks imminent passing due to a dire medical condition. The 10-year-old Czech Shepherd was given months to live when he was first diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy back in 2017. He defied medical odds for seven years and continued working up until his retirement in March 2022. But Blesks illness has since caught up with him, according to the police department, and he will be euthanized on Tuesday. Blesk joined the Cranston Police Department back in 2015 as a dual-purpose K-9, having been certified in narcotics and patrol. He worked alongside K-9 Officer Shane ODonnell throughout his entire career, during which he was involved in several drug busts and helped successfully track a number of missing persons. Blesk had a physical presence that was intimidating and imposing, yet he was approachable and gentle, the police department wrote. Blesks determination and drive turned into a willingness to complete any task that was asked of him. The police department has planned a motorcade in Blesks honor. It will begin at Greenwich Valley Veterinary Clinic around 1 p.m. and briefly stop at the Cranston Police Department for Blesks final call. The procession will then continue to the Final Gift Pet Memorial Center. The public is invited to gather at the police department for Blesks final call, which is slated to begin at 1:45 p.m. K-9 Blesk (Courtesy: Cranston Police Department) K-9 Blesk (Courtesy: Cranston Police Department) K-9 Blesk (Courtesy: Cranston Police Department) K-9 Blesk (Courtesy: Cranston Police Department) K-9 Blesk (Courtesy: Cranston Police Department) Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Retirement accounts took a hit Monday amid a global market selloff. The S&P 500 closed down 3%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq composite dropped 3.4% and the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 2.6%. It was the biggest daily drop for the S&P and Dow since September 2022. While some investors may be worried about the state of their 401(k), experts say there's an easy way to handle the dip: ignore the selloff and keep investing. Hold tight, said Kristina Hooper, chief global market strategist at investment management company Invesco. For most investors, they have a long-time horizon. It's not measured in months. And so while it's hard to do, putting on blinders is perhaps the best single decision investors can make for their portfolios. Got financial questions? Sign up for USA TODAY's The Daily Money newsletter. A view of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) building in the Financial District in New York City on August 5, 2024. Why is the stock market down? Monday's selloff comes on the heels of the disappointing July jobs report released Friday that stoked recession fears. U.S. hiring slowed as employers added 114,000 jobs a steep decline from the 175,000 jobs economists estimated were added last month. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate was 4.3%, the highest since October 2021 and up from 4.1% in June. The jobs report triggered the Sahm rule, a measure that says if unemployment based on a three-month average rises by at least a half percentage point over the past 12 months, the nation is likely in a recession. Claudia Sahm, the former Federal Reserve economist behind the namesake rule, told Bloomberg Television it is unlikely the country is in a recession, but were getting uncomfortably close to that situation. Scott Wren, senior global market strategist at Wells Fargo, told USA TODAY that while recent economic indicators raise the risk of a recession, the odds of entering into one within the next 12 months are still low. Stock market updates: How US markets are feeling impact of plunging global markets How far has the S&P 500 fallen? The S&P 500 closed at a record 5,667.20 on July 16. Since then, the index has fallen more than 8%. How far has the Dow fallen? The Dow has dropped more than 6% since it closed at a record 41,198.08 on July 17. What does this mean for me and my 401(k)? While it may be tempting to halt investments or pull out money when prices are falling, experts say the best course of action is to avoid checking your 401(k) account and keep investing. You definitely would not want to stop adding money, said Sam Stovall, chief investment strategist at investment research and analytics firm CFRA Research. Story continues If investors are itching to take action during the dip, the better move might be to increase investments while prices are low, according to Scott Wren, senior global market strategist at Wells Fargo. This is an opportunity, he said. If anything, you should boost your percentage that you're putting in when the market is down, because over time two, three, five-plus years it's very likely to work out. Ryan Detrick, chief market strategist at financial services firm Carson Group, said these periods are never fun for investors, but they are part of the process." A market drop of at least 10% from a recent high also known as a correction happens about once a year. For longer-term investors, it is times like these that help you reach your goals, Detrick said. Buying when things go on sale is always a good strategy, even if it feels like the wrong thing to do in the moment. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How stock market selloff could affect your 401(k), retirement plans OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) The victim has been identified after two people were found dead in a southwest Oklahoma City home on Friday, August 2. According to the Oklahoma City Police Department, officers responded to a home in the 2600 block of S. Miller Ave. around 12:20 a.m. RELATED STORY: Police release more information after two found dead in SW OKC Upon arrival, officers found the bodies of the victim, 68-year-old Forrest Ingerson, and the shooting suspect, 66-year-old Steven Rounds. Police say they believe Rounds died by suicide and the medical examiners office has confirmed Ingerson was shot to death. Officials say it appeared Ingerson had been dead for several days before Rounds shot himself. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. ST. LOUIS Homicide detectives with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department are investigating a fatal shooting Tuesday afternoon in the citys College Hill neighborhood. According to a police spokesperson, the shooting happened around 2 p.m. in the 4300 block of North Florissant Avenue. Police found the victim, an adult man, shot to death. This is a developing story. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. TOEPKA (KSNT) Topeka police are investigating a suspicious death in southeast Topeka. According to the Topeka Police Department (TPD), around 3:12 p.m. Aug. 5, officers responded to the 2400 block of Southeast Bellview Avenue in reference to a shooting. Once Topeka police arrived, they found one person suffering from a gunshot wound. The individual was pronounced dead at the scene. This embedded content is not available in your region. One dead in I-70 wreck near in Geary Co., area traffic is being rerouted Topeka police are investigating this incident as a suspicious death. Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to email telltpd@topeka.org or contact the Topeka Police Criminal Investigation Bureau at 785-368-9400. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007. You can also make anonymous tips online at www.p3tips.com/128. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. YUKON, Okla. (KFOR) Police say they are investigating after a body was found in Yukon Tuesday morning. According to officials, officers responded to a neighborhood near Main St. and Yukon Parkway around 6 a.m. regarding a body found outside. LOCAL NEWS: One injured, one arrested after SW Oklahoma City shooting Upon arrival, officers found the body of a man. The medical examiners office is working to confirm an official cause of death. No more information is available as the investigation continues. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. Click here to view this content. Elon Musk has branded the Prime Minister two-tier Keir in the latest attack by the billionaire on how widespread riots are being policed across the UK. The owner of X, formerly Twitter, made the comments on the website in response to a video showing protesters hurling missiles at a pub in Birmingham, some of whom were masked and raising Palestinian flags. One man is shown being kicked in the head by a rioter. Mr Musk captioned the video with the message: Why arent all communities protected in Britain? Robert Jenrick, the Conservative leadership contender, also questioned policing of the riots on Tuesday, while the former Met chief Sir Paul Stephenson called for the full force of the law to be applied equally to all those involved in violent protests. Separately, Richard Cooke, chairman of the West Midlands Police Federation, raised concerns over how officers dealt with an incident at a pub in Birmingham. It comes after Mr Musk claimed on Monday that civil war is inevitable in Britain. The tech bosss claim was roundly rejected by the Prime Ministers official spokesman, who said there was no justification for it. In a separate post on Tuesday, Mr Musk compared Britain to the Soviet Union. He shared a video of police appearing to arrest someone over a comment they had made on Facebook and captioned the footage: Arrested for making comments on Facebook! Is this Britain or the Soviet Union? In the video, two police officers can be seen arresting a man in relation to some comments that you have made on a Facebook page. One of the officers added: Weve had reports that youve made some comments that are offensive, obscene, and people have made a complaint about that. It was not immediately clear whether the video, published on Facebook, was connected to the riots that have erupted following the killing of three young girls in Southport. Arrested for making comments on Facebook! Is this Britain or the Soviet Union? Is this accurate @CommunityNotes? https://t.co/ov7lKEUl2C Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 6, 2024 In a further post, the Tesla and SpaceX founder shared an image from the cartoon Family Guy of a character strapped to an electric chair, captioned: In 2030 for making a Facebook comment that the UK government didnt like. It comes amid accusations over two-tier policing in which critics argue Right-wing protesters are handled more harshly than Left-wing demonstrators. Around 200 mainly Muslim men, some wearing balaclavas and shouting Free Palestine or Allahu Akbar gathered on Monday in the Bordesley area of Birmingham following false rumours that a far-Right march was planned in the area. But concern was raised when videos began circulating showing one man carrying what appeared to be a large sword and a Sky News crew broadcasting live being forced off the air by masked men. The Clumsy Swan pub was targeted and police have since confirmed they are investigating allegations of criminal damage. Click here to view this content. Mr Cooke, representing rank-and-file officers in the region, admitted there were questions over the policing approach to the incident following criticism over the lack of arrests at the scene. He said: You look at these videos and it does look bad. You see a load of thugs in balaclavas waving knives around and you dont see any police. There were a number of things that could have happened yesterday and so I think the force was looking at several potential incidents that could have happened and this was one of them. It is all about understanding the context to me but there is no doubt that it is not a good look to have criminals marauding in the streets. What you are supposed to do if you have someone with a machete or a bladed weapon is send armed support in and of course, they dont want to do that so I think it is a case that if it is peaceful in the sense of nobody has been injured, I think the conclusion is that it is better to wait. There is clear CCTV of the guy with the sword, they need to ensure that he is arrested and people like him are dealt with where there is the evidence, because my worry is that there is a focus on the alleged far-Right protests and I just wonder whether there is the determination to deal with everyone on all sides with equal ferocity given the over stance taken by the political leadership of labelling far-Right, which may well be the case, but there are clearly other elements coming into play. Hundreds of people came out to protect local shops and a mosque on Monday in Bordesely Green, Birmingham - Stop Press Media/Alamy Live News He added: The excuse often given, and I dont necessarily agree with it, is that you dont confront them at the time because on the balance of risk, someone might get hurt if we confront them but actually there is a bigger picture, if you dont confront them you pay a heavy price in terms of the psychology amongst the wider public says that the police arent going to do anything and if you allow that to take root it becomes a bit cancerous. To me if I see someone waving swords around I think they have got to be confronted as soon as possible. You cannot let it stand and too often that is what we are seen to do. Naveed Sadiq, 48, a community activist, said his warning to police about the gathering had fallen on deaf ears. Because we are on the ground, we know what is going on. Im on a million WhatsApp groups, the messages are coming through, the phone calls are coming through and now its going off, Im ringing up the commander in chief saying Its going off. He said, theres nothing going on, weve got no intel, weve got police officers in and around the area that you say. I rang him back on two or three occasions to say its coming, that something is going on. A few minutes later then I see the riot vans, one after the other. There shouldnt be a two-tier system. It could have been a lot worse. I feel that any intelligence given should be taken. I felt that they felt they had enough officers here. That just really painted a real bad picture for our community. Crowds gathered at Bordesley Green McDonald's in Birmingham after rumours of a possible far-right protest in the area on Monday - SWNS Linda Fogarty, 60, assistant manager of The Clumsy Swan, barricaded punters indoors when she got word that the mob was making its way towards the pub. The only reason we knew that march was happening was through social media. As far as Im aware, none of the businesses had been notified [by police] to be aware or prepared in any way whatsoever. Its frustrating, I probably would have shut the pub, she said. In a message to West Midlands Police, she added: Next time something like this happens, give us the heads up. Youre meant to protect the public, so let us know. Click here to view this content. More than 400 people have now been arrested in connection with riots and disorder which began last week in Southport in response to the killing of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club. Far-Right and anti-immigration protests have descended into widespread violence with the police coming under attack in towns and cities across the country. On Sunday around 700 people gathered outside a hotel in Rotherham being used to house asylum seekers and a group attempted to set it on fire. Counter-protests have also descended into violence with rival groups clashing on Monday evening in Plymouth and Darlington. Click here to view this content. Sir Paul Stephenson, the former Met Commissioner, has urged the authorities to come down hard against anyone involved, whatever their motivation. He told Nick Ferrari on LBC Radio: I rather think communities expect the full force of the law to be used against thugs, irrespective of whos motivating them. All the thugs on the streets who are causing this damage, and I include in that, all the folks, people who mistakenly use fictitious banners of protecting communities to come out and cause damage. All of them need to face the full force of the law, but thats something that should be in place 24/7. Police are understood to be gearing up for as many as 30 far-Right protests across the country planned for Wednesday. A rioter is detained by a police officer during an anti-immigration protest in Rotherham - HOLLIE ADAMS/REUTERS Mr Jenrick, a former immigration minister, said on Tuesday it is time to take back control of Britains streets after a week of violent protests. He called out both far-Right thugs and groups of Asian men who attacked white males in riots that followed the Southport stabbings. Mr Jenrick said the police must show no squeamishness or selectivity in their response to the unrest of recent days. In a video discussing the events of the past week, Mr Jenrick said: Ive said it several times in recent months, and Ill say it again today our political system doesnt work. It has failed too many people and communities over the past few decades. But that is no excuse, no justification at all, for any of what weve just seen. No progress can be made, nothing can be fixed, until order has been fully restored. Now is the time to punish the guilty, to lock up the rioters and to take back control of Britains streets. Counter demonstrators from Stand Up To Racism on Sunday as hundreds of police and rioters clashed outside a Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham - MILO CHANDLER/ALAMY Mr Jenrick condemned the killings of three young girls in Southport as actions that have no place in our decent society. The whole of Britain united in mourning, and it was understandable that amidst the sadness was a real sense of anger, he said. But we need to be clear, two wrongs never make a right. We saw what happened next. Vigils turned into protests. Protests turned into disorder and disorder turned into riots. The far-Right who attacked a mosque are a disgrace. The thugs attacking police officers are a disgrace. The arsonists who set fire to a hotel with people inside are a disgrace. The racists attacking black or Asian Britons are a disgrace, and the sectarian gangs marching through towns and cities waving weapons and in some cases, attacking white Britons are a disgrace. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) Police are searching for a suspect who threatened a mail carrier with a knife last Monday afternoon. According to Providence police, officers were called to Bellevue Avenue around 1:15 p.m. The victim, a U.S. Postal Service worker, told police that after delivering two packages, he saw a man take them and walk away. The mail carrier confronted the man, telling him to return the packages, but instead, the suspect reportedly pulled out a knife and threatened to stab him. ALSO READ: Man pulls a knife on police officer outside The Miriam Hospital The mail carrier told police he got back into his work van before the suspect left. Police said officers searched the area, but were unable to find the suspect. The victim described the suspect as a Hispanic man with short hair and minor facial hair. He was wearing a gray shirt, black pants and black shoes. Anyone with information on the suspect is asked to call Providence police at (401) 272-3121. This embedded content is not available in your region. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. KANSAS CITY, Mo. The Independence Police Department reported that one person was injured, and another is on the run, following a high-speed chase and a hit-and-run crash early Monday morning. According to IPD, just before 4:40 a.m., officers attempted to stop a 2010 Ford Edge for speeding over 100 mph on Interstate 70. Operator of popular Kansas City food truck killed in early morning shooting The driver did not stop for the officer and exited onto westbound U.S. 40 Highway. As the Ford approached 39th Street, the driver entered the opposite lanes, continuing westbound on the eastbound shoulder of U.S. 40 Highway. This caused officers to stop their pursuit. However, shortly after, officers saw the Ford crash into another vehicle that entered U.S. 40 Highway from Hardy Avenue. The victim of the crash was taken to a hospital with minor injuries. The driver of the Ford fled the accident scene immediately after the crash and has not been found. 3 arrested after large amounts of explosives, drugs found in KC home Police said the Ford was determined to be a stolen vehicle. This is a developing story. Tune into FOX4 News for the latest updates and details. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. The Fontana Police Department is looking for a man known only as Q and a 2-month-old baby girl hes accused of kidnapping on Monday. The kidnapping was reported at about noon when the childs mother called police to report that an acquaintance of hers had taken her 2-month-old child from the 6000 block of Lost Horse Drive, where she and Q were sharing an Airbnb, Officer Daniel Romero told KTLA. After an argument with the woman, Q took off with the baby, and neither has been seen since, police said. Q is described as being 5 feet, 7 inches tall, with a medium build and shoulder-length dreadlocks. He was last seen wearing a blue shirt and blue jeans, while the baby was wearing a blue onesie with a donut on the front. Anyone with information is asked to call 909-350-7700 or 911. Nidia Becerra contributed to this report. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Young Somali women wearing the niqab during official mourning for the people killed in a bomb attack in Mogadishu last weekend - Farah Abdi Warsameh/AP Photo Somali police have burned hundreds of womens niqabs because of fears jihadists could use the garments to carry out terror attacks. Officers in the southern city of Kismayo have been stopping women in the streets and forcing them to remove the garments, which cover the whole body and face except for the eyes. Those wearing the niqabs could also face jail or a fine. Warsame Ahmed Gelle, the local police chief, told state TV that the crackdown had been triggered by concerns jihadists could conceal their identities in order to carry out attacks. He said: In Jubbaland and in the entirety of Somalia, we are at war with the terrorist group who cover their faces and disguise themselves as women to carry out attacks, and for that reason we have banned the niqab. The police campaign culminated with the burning of hundreds of niqabs. In Somalia, the al Qaeda-linked al-Shabab group has fought the United Nations-backed government for nearly 20 years, and the insurgents control large parts of the south and central regions. Mourners on the streets of Mogadishu after six suicide bombers killed around 40 people at the weekend - Hassan Ali Elmi/AFP via Getty Images A suicide bombing killed dozens last week at a popular beachfront location in Mogadishu, the capital. Somalia is 99 per cent Muslim according to government statistics. Many Somali women choose to cover their hair only rather than their face, but the niqab has grown in popularity in recent years. Jubbaland state first imposed a niqab ban in 2013, though it was rarely enforced. Al-Shabab, which controls much of Jubbaland around Kismayo, condemned the new crackdown, saying it was against Islamic law. The groups Radio Andalus called it an intensification of the war on Islam and Islamic symbols, while its website said the ban was aimed at fighting Islam and Muslim women. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) A man who was wanted for shooting an employee at a Sonic Drive-in in Santa Fe was arrested on Sunday, according to the Santa Fe Police Department. Police are also looking to get in contact with a person of interest in the shooting. Mariano Romero, 31, was taken into custody by the Bernalillo County Sheriffs Office on an arrest warrant following the July 25 shooting at the fast-food restaurant located at 2861 Cerrillos Road. APD Deputy Chief apologizes during city council meeting for officers using racial slurs The Santa Fe Police Department responded to Sonic after an employee called saying her coworker had been shot in the head. Police arrived on scene and provided aid to the victim until he was taken to the hospital, according to court documents. Police said the victim took drinks out to a car and was shot in the head. On Aug. 2, investigators were able to identify Romero as the suspect in the shooting. Detectives then obtained a warrant for his arrest. Romero is facing attempted murder and bribery of a witness charges. Police are also seeking assistance in locating Savannah Edwards, 26, who is a person of interest in the shooting. Edwards currently has warrants for her arrest unrelated to this investigation. If you have any information, you are asked to contact the Santa Fe Police Department at 505-428-3710 or Detective Jario DePaz at 505-955-5297 or via email at jndepaz@santafenm.gov Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. Super Micro Computer (SMCI) stock price fell in premarket trading on Wednesday by 11% after reporting quarterly adjusted gross margin below estimates on Tuesday, as high costs tied to the production of servers with the latest AI chips weighed on profits. Its shares, which have more than doubled this year on expectations of booming AI computing demand, swung wildly after announcements of the results and a stock split. They initially jumped 12% in extended trading before reversing course. Nvidia (NVDA) shares, which rose 3% in trading after the bell, reversed course and fell 2%. Shares of Arm Holdings and AMD fell 2.1% and 1.2%, respectively, while those of rival Dell Technologies were down about 5%. AI-related stocks have come under immense pressure following a relentless rally for most of this year, amid worries about the high cost of building new data centers and other infrastructure to power the new technology. The company also forecast profit below Wall Street targets but estimated first-quarter and annual sales above estimates. "The initial aftermarket reaction was better than I thought it would be," Running Point Capital Chief Investment Officer Michael Ashley Schulman said. "The focus must have been on the higher-than-expected 2025 estimates, but as you dig through the numbers, all the actual misses and especially the much lower-than-expected gross margin may make portfolio managers question whether management can effectively and efficiently scale to handle the growth." CEO Charles Liang said on a conference call with analysts that margins would return to a normal range before the end of fiscal 2025. The company reiterated its gross margin target of a range of 14% to 17%. The company's fourth-quarter adjusted gross margin was 11.3%, compared with analysts' average estimate of 14.1%, according to LSEG data. Competitive pricing also impacted gross margin, CFO David Weigand said on the call. The company has resorted to lowering prices for its servers to stave off competition from rivals like Dell and HP Enterprise Super Micro expects adjusted profit between $6.69 to $8.27 per share for the first quarter, the midpoint of which is below estimates of $7.58. Analysts have questioned the company's hefty spending on supporting new generation of AI chips, such as those sold by Nvidia. The company is also grappling with higher supply chain costs and a tight supply of key components, CFO Weigand said. Super Micro expects net sales between $6 billion to $7 billion for the first quarter, compared to analysts' average estimate of $5.46 billion, according to LSEG data. Story continues Analysts also peppered executives with questions over potential delays in shipments of Nvidia's latest Blackwell processors. CEO Liang said the overall impact from a possible delay "should not be too much." (Reporting by Arsheeya Bajwa in Bengaluru, additional reporting by Akash Sriram in Bengaluru and Noel Randewich in Oakland, California; Editing by Anil D'Silva) PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Stephen Filipelli, the 62-year-old man arrested in connection to multiple explosions that occurred near 141st Avenue and San Rafael Street in Northeast Portland on Aug. 5, was booked in the Multnomah County Jail on two felony counts of possession of a destructive device, arrest records show. According to Oregon law, destructive devices are defined as devices that are explosive, incendiary or have poison gas components. Examples of explosive devices include bombs, grenades, rockets, missiles and mines. Destructive devices are also defined as any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into any of the aforementioned explosives. Rock band Ween cancels sold out Portland, Seattle, Eugene concerts Portland Police Bureau officers were called to the scene twice in response to the explosions once at 9 a.m., and a second time at about 1 p.m. Investigators told KOIN 6 News that it appears that Filipelli initially tried to blow up his vehicle in the area Monday morning, then left the scene in his car and returned hours later and caused a second explosion on the side of the road. Portland resident Jeanie Kleen told KOIN 6 News that she felt the shock wave of one of the explosions. It was a big explosion that almost sounded like it was under my house, Kleen said. There was an element of firecracker sound to it, but it was more intense. Oregon measles outbreak records at least 23 cases since June Three neighbors in the area told KOIN 6 News that they were surprised that Filipelli may be suspected of using explosives. Court records show that Filipelli has faced numerous felony charges in Oregon dating back to 1997. However, no previous charges were related to destructive devices. The Portland Police Bureau investigates the scene of the explosions. (KOIN) The Portland Police Bureau declined to comment on the contents of the devices that caused the explosions because the cause remains under investigation. KOIN 6 News requested more information about the case from the Multnomah County District Attorneys Office on Monday as a matter of public safety. However, the DAs office has not immediately responded. Filipelli was released from the Multnomah County Jail on monitored pretrial release on the same day of his arrest. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. FILE - Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, right, laughs as he stands with Fridley, Minn., Mayor Scott Lund during a visit to the Cummins Power Generation Facility in Fridley, Minn., Monday, April 3, 2023. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File) WASHINGTON (AP) Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Vice President Kamala Harris running mate pick, will need to introduce himself to the vast majority of Americans. But his track record in his home state offers clues on what he might bring to the Democratic ticket. In 2022, he won young voters in Minnesota, according to AP VoteCast, and he did well in the states union households, winning nearly 6 in 10 voters in that group. About half of Minnesota voters had a favorable view of Walz, and about 4 in 10 had a negative one. And although he didn't win among white voters without a college degree, he performed better among that group than Democrats nationwide. He won 44% of this group in Minnesota, compared to 32% among Democratic candidates nationally. Harris is hoping Walz will strengthen the Democratic ticket in Midwestern states and among working class voters, despite his current lack of a national profile. An ABC News/Ipsos survey conducted before Walz was selected for the VP slot, but after vetting began, showed that nearly 9 in 10 U.S. adults didn't know enough about him, or had no opinion. Among Americans with a view, opinions were split between positive and negative: 6% had a favorable view, and 7% had an unfavorable one. The other finalists for the role Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro were more familiar to Americans nationally, according to an AP-NORC poll conducted in late July that asked the question slightly differently, although most didnt know enough to have an opinion of them either. Nearly 9 in 10 Democrats also didnt know enough to have an opinion of Walz in the ABC News/Ipsos poll. But his biography as a military veteran and former high school teacher two broadly trusted professions may also help him appeal to voters. In addition to being a former teacher, Walz previously served in the Army National Guard. About 9 in 10 U.S. adults say they have a favorable opinion of military veterans, generally, according to another Ipsos poll conducted in 2024. About 8 in 10 say that about school teachers. Both measures are much higher than for government employees or elected officials. Republicans are slightly more likely than Democrats to have a positive view of veterans, while Democrats are a bit more likely to have a favorable opinion of those in a teaching career. Gallup polling from 2022 found that high school teachers are generally held in high regard among Americans for their honesty and ethical standards. About half gave them at least a high rating on ethics. Walz did lose among military veteran households in Minnesota in 2022, according to VoteCast. But while he also struggled among white men, a demographic that Democrats have sought to win back from President Donald Trump, he performed a little better among this group than Democrats nationwide. GREENE COUNTY, Mo. Polls are open in Greene County for the preferential primary and the Greene County Clerks office expects a 30% voter turnout. Voters at the polls a day early for no-excuse absentee voting say they hope to see a crowd of people making their voices heard at the polls. There are issues on the ballot and candidates on the ballot that need to be determined who is going to run at the end of the day, said Jacqueline Samuelson, a Greene County voter. To me, thats very important. Polls opened at 6:00 a.m. and will close at 7:00 p.m. and anyone in line to vote at 7:00 will be able to cast their ballot. 7:01 p.m. is the cut-off for ballots to be submitted. Voters will choose candidates to nominate for Missouri Governor, Secretary of State, and a few other state offices, as well as some Greene County offices. You can find the sample ballots by clicking here. Votes get counted, and thats the way I look at it, Max Johnson, a Greene County voter said. And theres no other way to get around your voice getting heard other than your vote. So its very important. This is a preferential primary election which means voters will choose a party ballot Democratic, Republican or Libertarian or they can choose an issue ballot, which will have two Missouri Constitutional issues. Amendment 4, if approved, would require Kansas City to increase funding to its police department, and Amendment 1 asks if voters want to give childcare providers a special property tax break. There are five central polling locations where any registered Greene County voter can cast their ballot, as well as 75 assigned locations based on your address. Find the best polling location for you by checking here. One of those polling locations is the Library Center on Campbell Avenue. While the library has been a polling location for many years, being an absentee voting location has been a new experience. Joey Borovicka, a circulation desk manager at the Library Center, says having the polling location has brought more people into the library. Five things to know before you go to the polls We get a lot of oh, my gosh, I didnt realize this place was so big. I didnt realize you offered this or that, Borovicka said. So, yeah, we welcome these kinds of events. Theyre going to bring in people that arent just our regulars. Borovicka says they have seen nearly 860 voters during the three days before election day. He says the number of voters they see can depend on the election and what is on the ballot, but he does expect to see a fair number of voters come to the library on Tuesday. This primary election will help prepare the staff for an even larger number of voters and questions to answer in November. This is the clerks office coming in to use library space, but we are happy to partner with them, Borovicka said. Because giving access to Greene County voters is very in line with the librarys mission. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. The city of Hendersonvilles draft 2050 Parks and Greenspace Master Plan includes 27 new neighborhood parks and 35 new miles of greenway. HENDERSONVILLE - An amphitheater, pool improvements, 27 new neighborhood parks and an additional 35 miles of greenway are among the many potential projects included in the city of Hendersonvilles draft 2050 Parks and Greenspace Master Plan. The city is close to finalizing the plan, which details possible new, expanded or improved park and greenway projects over the next 25 years, and officials want more input from residents. The Public Works Department will host a community input session Aug. 12, at the Henderson County Public Library. Consultants with Design Workshop will share a presentation about the master plan, followed by discussion with the public. Design Workshop, a firm that assists with landscape architecture, urban design and planning, was hired by the city to help draft the plan. In the fall of 2023, residents were invited to provide input at a series of public meetings and through a survey. Updates and information on the plan are available online at www.hvlnc.gov/cohparks. Patton Park in Hendersonville. About the plan City Council members heard a detailed presentation of the draft master plan at their April 24 meeting. Some tweaks may have been made since the meeting in preparation for an Aug. 8 release to the public, however. The city and its consultants considered how many people are within a 10-minute walk to a park or greenway and created a plan to fill the gaps. The 10-minute walkshed is a national standard that many cities are committing to, Brenna Laffey, a planner and designer with Design Workshops Raleigh location, said in her presentation to council. Laffey suggested taking a tailored approach to planning parks and greenways in order to align the citys efforts with population growth patterns, looking at where growth is occurring, what types of communities they are and what they need individually, instead of an across-the-board strategy. The goal is to focus on existing parks while also providing new options where needed to fill service gaps. The master plan considers the citys land-use map and aims to create regional parks instead of neighborhood parks in areas with lower density. The 2050 plan recommends: Improvement projects at three existing parks. 27 new neighborhood park projects (11 within city limits and 16 in the citys ETJ). Two new community park projects. One signature park project. 15 new facilities or amenities. Patton Park in Hendersonville. Looking at greenways through 2050, the recommendation is to add 35 miles of new greenway trails and connectors. From these ideas, the plan suggests a first phase of 10 years to tackle the following top priorities: Improvement projects at three existing parks Six new neighborhood parks, including five new facilities A signature project consisting of a downtown park and amphitheater A new senior recreation center For greenways, Phase 1 would be to implement the citys current goals and then move on to extensions. The three existing park improvement projects would be at Toms Park, Rosa Edwards Park and Sullivan Park, which were determined to be the most in need. Patton Pool, built in the 1970s, was not among the projects listed for Phase 1 of the April meeting, and City Manager John Connet suggested including it among the priorities. Hendersonville City Manager John Connet Project costs and funding The cost of the projects through 2050 would be: $2 million for improvement projects at existing parks $70 million for new neighborhood and community parks $1.5 million in new park facilities $10 million in a new signature downtown park and amphitheater $10 million in a new senior center $60 million for new greenways The cost does not include land acquisition, which would amount to about $4 million a year for improvements to existing parks, new parks and new facilities alone. Costs for the potentially 10-year first phase would be $2 million for existing parks, $12 million for new neighborhood and community parks, $600,000 for new facilities, $10 million for the signature park and amphitheater and $10 million for greenway projects. Design Workshop created a list of potential funding opportunities and grants, including state and federal funding options. The city could also look at creating a nonprofit organization to raise funds for parks, Laffey said. Another recommendation would be to get somebody who, either existing staff or potentially new staff, that can really focus on going after grants, so that you can be ahead of it, she added. Laffey said completion of the projects by 2050 was the goal, but the flexible process could take longer. The idea is that, this is the number of parks if you were to commit to the level of service that we were talking about, she said. When it comes to deciding which parks to improve, the city will prioritize projects by considering how the improvements will improve the quality of the park and the level of service offered; fill gaps in access to parks; complete the greenway system; increase equity; support the protection, preservation or restoration of nature; and help anticipated future population growth. I think something key to keep in mind is, theres not been a lot of funding allocated for parks, Connet said during the meeting. He recommended that council establish their priorities at existing parks and identify where money needs to be spent, adding that some council members would say the city hasnt been allocating enough funding for parks. More: Historic Johnson Farm awarded USDA Farm to School Grant, connects children with farms More: Phase 1 of Ecusta Trail, 6 miles in Henderson County, set for December completion Learn more The Public Works Department will host a community input session from 5-6:30 p.m. Aug. 12, at the Henderson County Public Library, 301 N. Washington St. A recording of the discussion, including the presentation slides, from the councils April 24 meeting is available on YouTube at youtube.com/watch?v=JFUDt6ExRPY and begins at the 10-minute mark. This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Hendersonville Parks and Greenspace Plan includes new parks, greenways SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) As 50 Cents Humor and Harmony Festival prepares to take over downtown Shreveport, stores and restaurants are popping up around town to provide the fun atmosphere that festival attendees will expect. Were excited about it, said artist and promoter Bryant P2K Taylor. Were expecting hundreds of thousands of people to be here in our local heart of Shreveport this weekend. The Red River District is spawning new pop-up businesses in anticipation, ready for the influx of people. One location in particular. The G-Spot Daquri Shop will be serving up ice-cold drinks. Shreveport Farmers Market relocates for Humor and Harmony Festival Its gonna be a breath of fresh air, just get the machine set up, and we gonna make sure thats right run properly so the drinks can be cold, nice fresh, and we just wanna make sure you get the environment straight, said Manager Antoine Greg. So when the locals get here, they gonna feel like theyre at home. New pop-up restaurants include an Asian cuisine style restaurant called Sei Less and across the street, A Jamaican bar and lounge called Lagos. Its gonna be coming from New York. They actually gonna do a pop-up shop. Everybody thats gonna come and plan on being a pop-up shop. They gonna make their way here to stay because theyre gonna see all the revenue that 50 is bringing in, along with G-Unit and them and Im just excited about it. He says the Red River District will become the talk of the town and a huge launch pad for new business opportunities in downtown Shreveport. The G Spot is set to open Wednesday, ahead of the other restaurants later in the week, including the Sugar Factory. There has just been tons of excitement as we inch closer and closer to the Humor and Harmony weekend. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. WASHINGTON, Ill. (WMBD) Brunks Screen Printing & Brandys Bees Boutique, a clothing store located in Washington, Illinois, announced Monday on social media the business is closing. Store owner Curt Reynolds said the closure boils down to people not shopping at small businesses. He also said the rise in prices forced small businesses like his to make tough decisions on their price of merchandise and staffing. Reynolds said Illinois lawmakers should represent the working middle class. During COVID-19, I remodeled the inside of the store. We tried to reinvent ourselves by bringing our honeybee business in, and it hasnt helped. People are not shopping. I have days here where I dont have a single customer come through my doors, not one sale, he said. I have days when I make $12 sale. That doesnt pay the building payment. Im out of time, Reynolds said. The store currently has a 50% off sale and is selling their screen printing presses. Walgreens changes could mean hundreds more store closures For more information about the business and to stay updated on whats next, click here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. LIVINGSTON, Texas (KETK) A forensic portrait of Audrii Cunningham, an 11-year-old girl who was murdered by a family friend on Feb. 15, has been placed at the Livingston Junior High. Shelby County officials searching for man with warrant for assault Courtesy of Livingston Junior High As the school welcomed sixth graders, Principal Jared Nettles placed the portrait of their classmate, Cunningham. The portrait was created by Johnny Castro of the Philadelphia Police Department and will reportedly travel through each grade level as the class honors her memory, the school said. According to Polk County records, Don Steven McDougal was with Audrii Cunningham on the morning of Feb. 15 where they left the Cunninghams home in his car. McDougal was reportedly to drop Cunningham at a school bus stop outside of the subdivision however authorities said she never made it to her elementary school that day. That night an Amber Alert was issued and law enforcement began a dayslong search for the missing girl. Operation Texas Kill Switch: Marshall man charged for having modified machine gun On Feb. 20, Cunninghams body was found in the Trinity River near SH 59 on the Polk and San Jacinto County line. Officials said her body was found tied to a large rock and that the rope used was consistent with rope that was observed in McDougals vehicle on a traffic stop two days prior. An autopsy revealed that Cunninghams cause of death was due to homicidal violence with blunt head trauma. McDougal was indicted on two counts of capital murder in April and is pending trial. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. Take a look at power outages across SC as Tropical Storm Debby lingers in the state Power outages eased in South Carolina Wednesday morning, though the effects of Tropical Storm Debby lingered in the Palmetto State. There were about 2,300 power outages were being reported across the Palmetto State as of 9:46 a.m. Wednesday, according to poweroutage.us, which collects power outage data from across the U.S. That number of total outages was down from Tuesday, when the tropical storm began soaking South Carolina. There were more than 16,000 power outages at one point Tuesday morning. In terms of providers, Dominion Energy reportedly had the most outages as of about 9:46 a.m. Wednesday, with 821. Dominion has about 800,000 customers in SC. Rural Colleton County had about 175 outages on Wednesday morning. That county was hit especially hard late Monday night and into Tuesday, with a tornado hitting Edisto Beach and damaging some restaurants and properties there. Tropical Storm Debby has dumped torrents of rain on South Carolina this week. John Quagliariello of the National Weather Service in Columbia said the storm will could bring tropical storm force winds, storm surge along the coast, a few tornadoes and the dreaded catastrophic flash and urban flooding to the Palmetto State This (storm) is an animal that we dont think we have seen before, Gov. Henry McMaster said of the slow-moving storm at a Monday evening news conference. While there was a lull in activity Wednesday morning as the storm was off the coast, rainy weather expected to pick up again through the day Wednesday and into Thursday. By Friday night, another 4-6 inches of rain could fall in the Midlands, with some areas receiving up to 8 more inches, according to a National Weather Service briefing. Localized amounts in other areas of the Midlands could be higher, especially in the case of thunderstorms, the National Weather Service said. The News Governor Tim Walz was largely unknown to voters outside Minnesota when Kamala Harris began her search for a running mate. Within just days, he made a name for himself with one weird trick a viral attack depicting Republicans as oddballs and became a favorite of progressives looking for a credible champion to hold off moderate Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro. But just as Walz introduced himself in a short time as a wisecracking Midwestern dad who delivered results, his opponents are hoping to quickly rebrand him as a far-left favorite. Democrats want voters to see a career teacher and military veteran who fought to provide free meals to students. Republicans say he pursued an agenda outside the mainstream as governor, oversaw out-of-control rioting, and leapfrogged a popular Jewish politician to appease anti-Israel activists. The race to define Harris new running mate is on. The View From Democrats The dream among Walz supporters is that hell be a happy warrior just about every Democrat we spoke to mentioned his sense of humor who bridges the gap between uniting the base and reaching out to new voters. His biography of growing up in Nebraska, joining the Army national guard, and becoming a teacher in Mankato, Minnesota also matches up well with JD Vance, who has introduced himself as a champion of forgotten small town Americans. Im thrilled, Vermont Rep. Becca Balint, a progressive Democrat, told Semafor. He was my pick from the first moment I saw him on TV talking about Harris and the sharp contrast between her and the Trump/Vance ticket. Hes a great surrogate, and as a representative from a rural state Im excited about his ability to speak to blue collar and rural Americans. Hes also a joyful person and we need more of that. On the opposite side of the spectrum in Congress, independent Sen. Joe Manchin who had briefly considered running against Harris for the nomination hailed Walz as the real deal. My friend Governor Tim Walz will bring normality back to the most chaotic political environment that most of us have ever seen, he said in a statement. Theres a somewhat Biden-esque arc to Walzs career, some Democrats noted: He had a relatively centrist record in Congress while representing a competitive rural seat, but a progressive record as governor in his second term, when Democrats won a narrow majority in its state legislature and pursued a raft of party priorities. Much like Biden, supporters described him as a backslapping coalition-builder who could manage competing interests to deliver victories and temper expectations when necessary. Hes a pragmatic Midwesterner Democrat, former Ohio Rep. Tim Ryan, a moderate who ran a competitive race against JD Vance in 2022, told Semafor. Ryan gushed about Walzs personal and political skills, and showed little concern about efforts to paint him as radical (the only card they have is to call him a name). Walz, he said, had the messaging chops to rebut whatever attacks he received. Hell be awesome, Ryan said. Too often candidates have fallen into the trap of getting too wonky and having a 10 point policy plan that nobody wants to listen toTim has a way of speaking to the same values, the same goals, same strategies, but just doing it in a way thats more common touch and that people can understand. Ryan and many other Democrats pointed to Walzs personal affability as a likely factor in Harris choice. This view was especially pronounced in the House, where Walz was a member from 2007 to 2019 and enjoyed plenty of support during the running mate search. Missouri Rep. Emanuel Cleaver called Walz an everyman and said they were part of a decade-long group chat of 25-30 members called the Sports Buddies that also included former Reps. Ed Perlmutter and Joe Crowley. Truly one of the nicest guys Ive ever served with, Pennsylvania Rep. Brendan Boyle told Semafor. I was hoping she would pick him, said Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, a California Democrat who took office after Walz had left. Hes down to earth, keeps it real, and understands middle America and Congress. The View From Republicans At least some within Trumps orbit seem to be breathing a sigh of relief that Harris didnt go with Shapiro, who they worried throughout the process might have been more difficult to define and attack. There are Democrats who winced at the choice as well, hoping Shapiro would give the party a better shot at his must-win state. Trump responded to the Walz news with two words on Truth Social: THANK YOU! Walz is a cornucopia of liberal psychosis, one person close to the Trump campaign texted. Hes like a picnic for the Trump-Vance campaign. Trumps vice presidential pick JD Vance suggested that picking Walz over someone like Shapiro represented anti-Semitism within the Democratic Party, and Harris bowing to that. Shapiros history of support for Israel, especially his criticism of campus protests, had led some progressives to oppose him joining the ticket. Some of Shapiros supporters argued this argument was unfair and perhaps tied to his religious and ethnic background given that he had also been a critic of the current Israeli government and the rest of the VP field held relatively conventional pro-Israel positions. They will have not picked Shapiro frankly because of antisemitism in their own caucus, in their own party, Vance told Hugh Hewitt. The far-left doesnt like the fact that he is a Jewish-American. Walzs record included numerous agenda items that Republicans had eagerly attacked in races around the country, putting him in a familiar comfort zone for advertisers, strategists, and surrogates. Team Trump highlighted how he signed an executive order protecting minors traveling to the state for gender transition care and a bill that allowed undocumented immigrants to obtain drivers licenses. The Trump-aligned Super PAC MAGA INC. sent out a press release describing the Democratic ticket as far-left radicals, and Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said in a statement that Walz is obsessed with spreading Californias dangerously liberal agenda far and wide. Republicans also pointed to criticism over his response to riots in Minneapolis back in 2020, which raged for multiple nights before local and state law enforcement officials could reassert control. Walz has argued he did the best he could in a fast-moving situation in a place that ended up the epicenter for protests and unrest throughout the entire country. This ticket puts criminals ahead of citizens, RNC chairman Michael Whatley tweeted. Notable CBS News has a rundown of Walzs top accomplishments and setbacks as governor and how they have been portrayed by both parties in the state. The New York Times reviews Walzs record overseeing the state response to the 2020 riots in Minneapolis, which are already a focus of Republican attacks. Walzs selection runs into a buzzsaw of Israel politics, Semafors David Weigel and Kadia Goba report. The wait is over. Vice President Kamala Harris has finally picked her running mate in Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Walz has become a favorite of online progressives recently, largely because of his weird attacks on Republicans. But there are also solid policy reasons why Walz is beloved of the left wing of the party. He went from a pro-gun rural Democrat in Congress to a governor who has signed legislation that protects abortion rights and LGBTQ+ rights, enacted background checks on guns, and expanded free school meals regardless of income. Back in August 2023, I tweeted: Walz would be a strong choice for Harris if she were to be the nominee. Almost a year later, after Bidens debacle of a debate performance, just as Walz and other Democratic governors did a stakeout in front of the White House, I suggested him as a potential running mate for Harris if Biden dropped out. Veteran, longtime congressman from rural Minnesota. Popular governor who has passed major pieces of progressive legislation, is how I summarized my reasons why. I cant say I have a perfect predictive streak by any means, since I briefly suggested last month that North Carolina Roy Cooper would be Harriss running mate before he took himself out of the running. But theres a reason Walz especially when paired with Harris has been on my mind for a year. Ahead of the first Republican presidential primary, I saw Walz on Meet the Press. Thats a pretty weird group of folks thats going to be on the debate stage, Walz said then. It was a preview of his now common refrain that Republicans are weird, and it landed well. Thats a smaller reason, though. We have to bear in mind that 2024 is, as people smarter than I have said, a vibes election. Just a few weeks ago, Donald Trump had all the momentum, even before a gunman tried to kill him. That explained his somewhat risky decision to pick Senator JD Vance of Ohio. The dual choices of Vance and Walz show how Trump and Harriss campaigns are making a play for rural America with vastly divergent messages. Walzs focus is more optimistic, focused on showing that expanding opportunities for the marginalized helps rural whites. Meanwhile, Vance offers a mad-as-hell message for rural America, promising a vengeful, scorched-earth approach to elites. Last week, I wrote that beneath wholesome meetup that was White Dudes for Harris, which Walz joined, it was made clear the Harris campaign understood it needed to shore up white, working class, male voters. Trump has largely championed himself as a voice for the forgotten man, including in areas chock-full of white working-class men who previously voted for Democrats. Thats a problem, from Harris perspective. Vance and Walz saw the Trump phenomena from different angles in 2016: As the author of Hillbilly Elegy, Vance sought to explain to his fellow elites why people from Appalachia began voting for a demagogue like Trump. Conversely, Walz was running for re-election in his largely rural district that Trump won. Walz won but only by 2,549 votes. Since then, Vance and Walz have both undergone a makeover. Vance a former venture capitalist with connections to Peter Thiel has retooled himself as a populist warrior, willing to march with striking auto workers even as much of the GOP remains in thrall to big business. Like Trump, hes mostly blamed the plight of rural America on immigrants taking jobs or selling drugs. In his convention speech, Vance said politicians like Biden had caused the country to be flooded with cheap Chinese goods, with cheap foreign labor and in the decades to come, deadly Chinese fentanyl. For his part, Walz has argued that enacting liberal policies like protecting voter rights and reproductive rights is helpful to people who grew up in his small town in Nebraska. He has said in the past that human rights are not like a damn pie in other words, giving one section of the population civil rights doesnt take them away from others. He has sought to draw attention to how inequality is systemic rather than the fault of individual immigrants, saying that its the same thing with jobs, same thing with housing, same thing with health care, during a speech in July. Similarly, when he delivered counter-programming to the RNC in Milwaukee, he said one golden rule about small towns and the heartland is that people mind their own damn business. His position is essentially that the government shouldnt be involving itself in policing peoples rights and responsibilities. Meanwhile, Vance is strongly behind abortion bans enacted by politicians (even as Trump equivocates on his own position on the issue.) The Walz approach seems to be working so far. Last week, Inside Washington reported how Senator Joe Manchin, the cantankerous former Democrat from West Virginia who relishes sticking it to his former party, praised Harriss pivot to the center. On Tuesday, he also praised Walzs selection, saying: I can think of no one better than Governor Walz to help bring our country closer together and bring balance back to the Democratic Party. Considering Manchin is far to the right of anyone who might call themselves a progressive, this is truly a remarkable feat. Maybe the weird talk is working. Pregnant Woman Who Was Excited to Learn Baby's Sex Is Stabbed to Death in Her Home Massachusetts woman Brianna Welsh was approximately three months pregnant when she was killed in her apartment WCVB Zachary Vozzella appears in court. A pregnant Massachusetts woman's family is mourning her loss after authorities allege she was stabbed to death by her ex-boyfriend's brother. According to the Essex County District Attorney's Office, 25-year-old Brianna Welsh, who was reportedly about three months pregnant, was found dead at her Lynn, Mass., apartment on Wednesday, July 31. The DA's office alleged that just one day before Welsh was discovered dead, her ex-boyfriend, Brendon Vozzella, was arrested by Lynn Police after they received a report of alleged domestic violence. Assistant District Attorney Kate MacDougall said in court Thursday, Aug. 1, that Brendon allegedly punched his ex-girlfriend in the stomach and was subsequently taken into police custody around 2 p.m. on Tuesday, while Welsh was taken to a nearby hospital, NBC10 Boston reported. Welsh returned home to the apartment a few hours later, getting home by 6:15 p.m., while Brendon remained in police custody, the outlet added. Gofundme Brianna Welsh. Zachary Vozzella, Brendon's 26-year-old brother, had been staying with the couple, and allegedly came back to the apartment while Welsh was home, MacDougall said, according to the Boston Globe, WHDH and NBC10. Zachary allegedly stabbed Welsh to death, leaving her with multiple stab wounds, prosecutors claimed, according to the outlets. Brendon never returned to the apartment after his arrest and police do not believe he killed Welsh, prosecutors added, per WHDH. As the investigation continued, CBS News Boston, NBC10 and WHDH reported, prosecutors alleged that police eventually found bloody clothes and a kitchen knife in a trash bag in another apartment where Zachary had also been staying. According to the DA's office, Brendon was arraigned on Wednesday on one count of assault and battery on a household member and one count of assault and battery upon a pregnant person. He's next due in court on Tuesday, August 6. It's not clear if he has entered pleas or retained an attorney. On Thursday, Zachary pleaded not guilty to one count of murder and one count of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon in Lynn District Court and was held without bail, the DA's office added. Zacharys attorney, Francisco Napolitano, told WHDH that he denies killing anyone. Zachary is set to appear in court for a pre-trial probable cause hearing on Sept. 10, court records show. In a statement, Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker said, "The tragic violence that has taken the life of Brianna Welsh and her unborn child has created an unbearable loss for her family. While their loss cannot be repaired or remedied, I hope that our efforts to seek justice on her behalf assures them that we and the community support them." Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. Following Welsh's death, her family established a GoFundMe page to raise money for her funeral expenses. In the description of the fundraiser, Claudia Welsh wrote that the 25-year-old was excited to have her baby. "We are raising funds to help memorialize our beautiful daughter, Brianna E. Welsh, also known as Bri Bri, and her unborn child," the GoFundMe description reads. "Brianna was looking forward this week to find out and share with her family and friends if her baby was going to be a boy or a girl." "Tragically, she has been taken from us, murdered in her own home. We are all lost without her," the page continues. "She was a bright shining star, that went out before her time." If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Preparing to again defend Israel, US presses Iran and Israel to de-escalate While the American military is rallying allies to yet again help defend Israel against an expected Iranian attack, top American officials are simultaneously pressing partners to push Iran to not carry out a strike or coordinated strikes with its proxy groups and asking Israel for restraint to prevent a widespread war in the region. In just the past few days, President Joe Biden and his top diplomat, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, have held a flurry of calls with counterparts across the Middle East. They have each had numerous exchanges with the leaders and foreign ministers of Jordan, Qatar and Egypt with a message of de-escalation. Weve been engaged in intense diplomacy with allies and partners communicating that message directly to Iran. We communicated that message directly to Israel, Blinken said on Tuesday. Everyone in the region should understand that further attacks only perpetuate conflict, instability, insecurity for everyone. The looming Iranian attack would come in response to Israel last week killing the top military commander for Irans most powerful proxy, Hezbollah in Lebanon. The next day, Israel is widely believed to have assassinated Hamas political leader in Tehran, which Israel has not admitted to carrying out. Iran and its proxies have been seen beginning to make some preparations for a potential retaliation against Israel, according to two US officials familiar with intelligence. The sources would not elaborate on what kind of preparations are being made. Multiple US officials have told CNN that the US expects an attack against Israel in the coming days. It remains unclear whether there will be a coordinated response between Tehran and Hezbollah. Officials have also told CNN that Iran is still believed to be deliberating the scope of its response. One US official and one western intelligence official told CNN that fears are higher now about Hezbollah taking action than Iran, raising the prospect that the Lebanon-based militia group which is funded, equipped and trained by Iran may act without them. With American and Israeli officials believing an attack by Iran and its axis may just be a question of when, what happens after that then falls to Israel. Much will depend on both what is targeted military or civilian sites and the deadliness of those strikes. People walk next to the apparent remains of a ballistic missile, in the desert near the Dead Sea, following a massive missile and drone attack by Iran on Israel, in southern Israel April 21, 2024. - Ronen Zvulun/Reuters While the US does hold secret, indirect talks with Iran often in Oman other countries like Qatar and Jordan speak with Tehran directly and openly. Jordans foreign minister made a rare trip to Tehran over the weekend, and Qatar often acts as a go-between for the US. New Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian told Jordans Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Sunday that Haniyehs assassination was a major mistake by the Zionist regime (Israel) that will not go unanswered, according to Iranian state TV. On Wednesday, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation will convene in the Saudi Arabian port city Jeddah at Irans request to discuss Haniyehs killing. The Hamas official had been in Iran for Pezeshkians inauguration, which has added to the Iranian anger at Israel for carrying out such a brazen murder of their guest in their capital. Arab foreign ministers are expected to continue pressing Iran for restraint while also criticizing Israel for Haniyehs killing. The day before Haniyeh was killed, Israeli jets carried out a targeted strike in southern Beirut targeting Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shakr. At least three others were killed, according to Lebanese media. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah said Tuesday that they will respond against Israel regardless of the consequences to avenge the assassination, but keeping Israelis waiting is part of the punishment. The growing fears of what may unfold comes just under four months since a huge attack by Iran against Israel, which saw more than 300 missiles and drones fired against Israel in waves. In that case, Irans unprecedented direct attack against Israel was an attempt to avenge another Israeli strike in the Syrian capital of Damascus against a diplomatic facility that killed seven members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force. Almost everything Iran fired was intercepted by Israels air defenses but with significant help from the US, UK, France, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The American military commander for the Middle East, General Erik Kurilla, was back in Israel on Monday as the US tries to resurrect a similar multi-national effort to shield Israel for the attacks. But its unclear to what extent critical Arab allies will participate given their anger over the assassination of Haniyeh, which US officials were also frustrated by. Its not helped, Biden told reporters on Thursday. CNNs Katie Bo Lillis, Natasha Bertrand and Michael Conte contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com PRICE, Utah (ABC4) The Price man who was shot and killed by multiple officers last week allegedly brandished a weapon against law enforcement, according to police. Patrick Frank Whitten, 31, of Price, was shot and killed on Tuesday, July 30, by officers who were responding to a domestic violence situation. According to the Department of Public Safety, officers had learned Whitten was potentially armed when they arrived on the scene. The incident happened just after 11:30 p.m. Whitten had reportedly already left the home by the time officers arrived, but he was found outside nearby a short time later. One person killed in West Haven police shooting When officers confronted him, he brandished a weapon, The Department of Public Safety said in a press release. In response to this threat, officers from multiple agencies fired. The 31-year-old male sustained critical injuries and was transported to an area hospital after being treated at the scene. The man, who DPS identified as Whitten, later died at the hospital. DPS said officers from the Price City Police Department, Helper City Police Department, and the Carbon County Sheriffs Office responded to the domestic violence call. No officers were injured in the shooting. The Utah State Bureau of Investigation is leading the investigation into the officer-involved critical incident. The Department of Public Safety said the investigation is ongoing and more information will be released as it becomes available. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. Making his way to Vice President and Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris' short-list of running mates, Gov. JB Pritzker is staying in Illinois for the foreseeable future. Putting an end to weeks of speculation, Harris named Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate Tuesday morning in their quest to defeat former President Donald Trump this November. Walz rose in popularity in recent weeks partially for labelling Republicans as "just weird" and was selected over six candidates. Vice President Kamala Harris participates in a rally to support Illinois Democrats with Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker on the campus of UIC on September 16, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. Including Pritzker, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear had also received vetting papers from the Harris team last week as she promised to make a decision by Aug. 7. More: Illinois lawmakers looking to lower prescription drug costs, but not everyone is on board Playing host to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Pritzker would have brought a track record chock full of Democratic legislative priorities and significant personal financial benefits to the ticket. Pritzker told reporters at an unrelated press conference in Chicago that he made it into final rounds of the selection process and received multiple calls from the Harris camp, asking for details that would help in their decision. Making it that far in the "grueling" vetting process was an honor, he said. He is, as expected, putting his full backing behind the Harris-Walz campaign and said he "will do everything I can to ensure victory in November in a statement. What Walz brings to the table, Pritzker said, is a staunch record of protecting abortion rights and providing free school breakfast and lunch to all Minnesotans. Both Pritzker and Walz have served as governors of their respective states since 2019. "He has in every way demonstrated that he is trustworthy and a person of integrity," Pritzker said of Walz following a bill signing ceremony. "And that's heck of a lot more than you can say for the vice president choice that (former President) Donald Trump made." Pritzker, 59, was considered as a potential running mate thanks to his work as a Biden and now-Harris surrogate and, like Walz, his proximity to swing states like Wisconsin and Michigan. He had also been promoting efforts to protect in abortion access this year in Arizona and Nevada through his Think Big America nonprofit advocacy group. While speculation of higher office aspirations has been frequent for Pritzker through his two terms in office, he has long stated his commitment to helping Democrats keep control of the Oval Office, in whatever capacity. The possibility remains that he could run for a third gubernatorial term in 2026 or potentially for U.S. Senate. Prior to Harris decision, business groups and abortion rights organizations urged her to select Pritzker as her vice president. What he has done for economic development in Illinois and unwavering commitment to abortion access, they wrote in letters addressed to Harris, would be of tremendous service in Washington. That track record also includes signing legislation raising the state minimum wage, legalizing recreational cannabis, banning the manufacture and sale of semi-assault weapons and ending the cash bail system. As an heir to the Hyatt Hotel fortune, founded by his uncle, Jay, and managed by his father, Donald, Pritzker is worth an estimated $3.4 billion, making him the richest politician in U.S. office. The governor and his two siblings Anthony Pritzker, managing partner of the Pritzker Group, and former U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker are all on the Forbes 400 list. Pritzker moving from the state would have seen Illinois Democrats likely lose a major campaign funder, previously self-funding $323 million of the $335.6 million his two election campaigns reported while also donating tens of millions to other Democratic candidates. Democrats have grown an increasing grip over the Illinois General Assembly during his administration and hold 14 of the states 17 congressional seats. No Republicans hold statewide office in Illinois. Contact Patrick M. Keck: pkeck@gannett.com, twitter.com/@pkeckreporter. This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker backs Harris' VP pick in Walz The new role of Kellyanne Conway, a former top White House official and advisor to Donald Trump, as a lobbyist to boost support for Ukraine highlights hopes in Kyiv that the Republican Partys presidential candidate can be swayed to take Ukraines side and benefit politically from it. According to a disclosure form shared by the U.S. Justice Department on Aug. 2, Conway, Trump's former campaign manager and senior counselor, was hired at a $50,000 per month price tag by Ukrainian oligarch Viktor Pinchuk to "engage U.S. lawmakers, experts, and opinion makers to explain the importance of Ukraine to the rules-based order and the protection of democratic principles." She is also expected to "contribute to raising awareness among U.S. decision-makers of Ukrainians' fight for freedom and the Russian illegal war of aggression, according to the disclosure. Trump has a history of cozying up to strongman leaders of U.S. adversaries, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, but at an Aug. 3 campaign rally he criticized President Joe Bidens recent brokering of a hostage deal that, as he put it, returned some of greatest killers to Putin. Alleged Russian agents who conducted assassinations abroad were included in the prisoner exchange that led to the release of Americans held by Russia, including Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. We got our people back, but boy we make some horrible, horrible deals, Trump added. The comments highlight how Trump consistently seeks to present himself as the stronger politician and deal-maker, a posture he could seek to boost ahead of the Nov. 5 vote in which he seeks a return to the presidency. Former President Donald Trump speaks during his campaign rally at the Trump National Doral Golf Club in Doral, Florida, U.S. on July 9, 2024. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images) The U.S. election, about 90 days away, has become more competitive following the recent decision by 81-year-old President Joe Biden not to seek re-election in 2024. The stage is now set for a tighter race between the 78-year-old Republican nominee and his younger Democratic opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, 59. Some experts and Ukraine watchers say Trump could now lift his chances by reversing course to look stronger on the world stage than Putin by presenting himself as more capable of helping Ukraine than Harris. Her record for backing Kyiv and condemning Russias full-scale invasion launched in February 2022 stands firm, all while her campaign seemingly benefits from a shortened race. Trump stands to gain from a shift towards appealing not only to isolationists but to moderate voters who support aid for Ukraine, including the big Ukrainian and East European diaspora communities in key swing states such as Pennsylvania. These states, including Arizona, Wisconsin, Michigan, and North Carolina, are also reaping rewards from the U.S. defense contracts with manufacturers in their districts to produce weaponry for Ukraine. Citing a serious struggle within the Republican Party over how to end the war in Ukraine, Ukrainian political analyst Volodymyr Fesenko told the Kyiv Independent that Trump will likely maneuver to strike a balance between isolationists and Reaganites that take a harder line on Russia. Some Republicans are pushing for a deal between Ukraine and Russia from a position of strength, while isolationists favor a peace deal on Putin's terms, he added. (The Reaganites) are telling Trump that, if a peace deal is made on Russia's terms, this will be viewed as Trump's defeat, Fesenko said. And there will be no real peace unless Ukraine's interests are taken into account, added Fesenko, a regular talking head on Ukrainian state television news programs. Pro-Ukrainian push in Trumps camp Conways registration as a lobbyist is part of efforts, Fesenko said, to persuade Trumps team to back Ukraine and understand Kyivs position. The Ukrainian billionaire Pinchuk is expected to invite Conway to his Yalta European Conference in September. When such people come to Ukraine, they usually meet the country's leadership, Fesenko added, pointing to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Conway, Trumps former advisor, isnt the first person in Trumps camp to push for a stronger position by the former president seeking re-election. Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaks on the stage during the last day of the 2024 Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, US on July 18, 2024. (Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images) Mike Pompeo, former director of the Central Intelligence Agency and secretary of state under Trump, and American lobbyist David Urban published an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal on July 25, claiming that Trump would support Ukraine if elected. Pundits claim that if Donald Trump is re-elected, he will cut off aid to Ukraine, give away its territory, and deal directly with Vladimir Putin to impose an ignominious peace on the country, they wrote. Theres no evidence that such capitulation will be part of President Trumps policy and much evidence to the contrary. Pompeo and Urban said that it was Mr. Trump who in 2017 lifted the Obama administrations arms embargo on Ukraine, providing it with the Javelin (hand-held anti-tank) missiles that helped save Kyiv in the earliest days of Russias (full-scale) invasion. The Javelins Trump delivered in 2017 is a talking point frequently repeated among Republicans in Washington who are both Trump supporters and those in favor of continued aid to Ukraine. Trump also, Pompeo and Urban wrote, gave political cover to House Speaker Mike Johnson when he supported $61 billion in military aid for Ukraine in April after blocking it for months. Pompeo and Urban argue that while Mr. Biden stumbled into war through weakness, Mr. Trump could re-establish peace through strength, a core element of the official Republican party platform. They suggested driving down energy prices to shrink "Putins war-crimes budget," imposing real sanctions on Russia, revitalizing the NATO military alliance, creating "a $500 billion lend-lease program for Ukraine," and lifting "all restrictions on the type of weapons Ukraine can obtain and use." Steven Moore, a former Republican chief of staff who has been in the ears of U.S. lawmakers since the start of the full-scale invasion and who has pushed for further American support of Ukraine as the founder of the Ukraine Freedom Project, was heartened to see Pompeo discussing Ukraine and national security. Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaks on stage on the fourth day of the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, US on July 18, 2024. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) Moore added that because Pompeo is rumored to be a favorite for secretary of defense should Trump be elected to a second term, it's positive for Ukraine that hes speaking of this now. Pompeos op-ed followed a meeting between former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Trump devoted to Ukraine on July 16 and his claim that Trump would be strong and decisive in supporting Kyiv. Meanwhile, Kurt Volker, who was the U.S. special representative for Ukraine negotiations under Trumps first presidency, made a case for a more pro-Ukrainian policy in an interview with online newspaper Yevropeiska Pravda in June. He compared potential concessions to Russia to the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan following the withdrawal of U.S. troops under Biden in 2021. "So now, (Trump) would see that Ukraine failing, losing to Russia, would be just like Afghanistan for him," Volker said. "He doesn't want to be in that position. In Trump's mind, he also looks at the way the Biden administration has handled things and says: 'this wouldn't have happened if I was in charge.' But he views this as a weakness. He wants to project strength." Mike Turner, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and a Republican congressman from Ohio, also backed Ukraine during a visit to Kyiv on July 1. He said that Ukraine should be allowed to strike "valid military targets" in Russia. Visiting Kyiv in March, Lindsey Graham, a U.S. Senator in Trumps camp, pledged that Ukraine would get more of the long-range ATACMS rockets to "knock the damn bridge down." His comments referred to the bridge across the Kerch Strait that Putin built after he annexed Ukraines Crimean peninsula in 2014 during his initial invasion of Ukraine. Republicans may be now trying to look stronger vis-a-vis Russia than they actually are with slightly more pro-Ukrainian rhetoric, according to Stephen Humphreys, a Democrat and U.S. lawyer who has investigated Russian interference in U.S. elections. "Most American people don't support extreme (anti-Ukrainian) rhetoric," he told the Kyiv Independent. "They are trying to flip the script. It was too extremist, it won't sell. For purely political reasons they are trying to moderate their approach." However, some close to Capitol Hill havent heard this quite yet. US Senator Lindsey Graham speaks during a press conference at an open-air exhibition of destroyed Russian military vehicles in Kyiv, Ukraine on May 26, 2023. (Sergei Supinsky/AFP via Getty Images) Gary Marx, a longtime faith advisor to Republican leaders who is a frequent guest of Speaker Johnson, hasnt heard talk of Trump strengthening his rhetoric or policy toward Ukraine. The only strength Trump is projecting toward Russia is his belief of being a strong negotiator, Marx said. Meanwhile, there is already a backlash from isolationists in Trump's camp against efforts to lobby for Ukraine. Trump's son Donald Trump Jr. criticized Conway on Aug. 5 for taking on the Ukraine lobbying job. "I don't know how you can be part of a campaign and do that," he said in a radio interview, referring to Conways lobbying contract with Pinchuk. Repeatedly expressing how much he liked Conway, having known her for many years, Donald Trump Jr. continued: "The rich guys in Ukraine they want the war to continue cause theyre stealing the money we were sending them. If you're working for Ukraine, its hard like I cant imagine that anyone there is actually working for peace. "Trump is the only guy who can get peace there," Trumps son added. False hopes for Trump pivot? Brian Bonner, a Democrat, former chief editor of the English-language newspaper Kyiv Post and host of the Ukraine Calling radio show, said its a false hope to bet Trump will be a stronger supporter of Ukraine than his Democratic rivals. I don't think Trump cares about Ukraine. Everything about Trump's behavior suggests he is more aligned with the Kremlin," Bonner said. "Part of the Republican Party is more hawkish than Biden, but it's not the dominant wing of the party." Although Trump recruited some of the hawkish and pro-Ukrainian Republicans during his first term, "Trump 2.0 is not going to do that," Bonner added. Reno Domenico, head of Democrats Abroad in Ukraine, agreed, saying that "actions speak louder than words." "We know what they did in reality," he added, saying that Trumps allies blocked $61 billion in U.S. aid for Ukraine for months. "If Trump wins, Ukraine will be dismembered, and then there will be a war again even if some ceasefire is in place." Jonathan Katz, a national security expert at the Brookings Institute, said that "there are some elements of Republican support for Ukraine but it's not the Trump lane of this party." "It's good and it's important to hear from Republicans in the national security space who are willing to lay out a strategy of continued support regardless of administration, he said. "But these are not people who are speaking for Mr. Trump. And unfortunately this (potential Trump) administration will have less of those people, those national security types that would support Ukraine. Kamala Harris on Ukraine Some say that Harris expected nomination is affecting Trumps Ukraine policies. Harris has consistently supported military aid for Ukraine and the countrys territorial integrity. While Biden trailed Trump by several percentage points, Harris is currently performing better than Trump in opinion polls. According to election analyst Nate Silvers national poll aggregate, Harris would get 45.5% as of Aug. 5, while Trump would receive 44.1%. Kyrylo Demchenko, who was Ukraine's youth delegate at the country's UN delegation in New York from 2023 to 2024, believes that Harris' nomination "has already changed her opponent," and both candidates are competing for the moderate electorate. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US Vice President Kamala Harris smile at the end of a press conference at the Munich Security Conference (MSC) in Munich, Germany on Feb. 17, 2024. (Wolfgang Rattay / POOL / AFP via Getty Images) As a result, Trump's team has to appeal not only to the isolationists and anti-Ukrainian electorate but also to moderates who support a stronger international role for the U.S. and aid for Ukraine, Demchenko said. "The situation has changed for the better for Ukraine," Demchenko, who is currently serving in the Ukrainian army, told the Kyiv Independent. "The Ukrainian agenda has become more relevant. Regardless of how it will end, it's intensifying the competition, and both candidates will update their programs." Domenico of Democrats Abroad in Ukraine said that "Harris' nomination energized the party," adding that "there is room for her to grow." Harris is expected to maintain Bidens Ukraine policies but some hope that she will strengthen support for Kyiv. However, in her shortened campaign she has walked back from some of her progressive stances displayed in the 2020 race in hopes of securing moderates from Trump. Biden has faced criticism for the slow and incremental pace of military aid for Ukraine and imposing restrictions on the use of U.S. weapons against Russia. Humphreys, the attorney who investigated Russian interference, argued that the public support for Ukraine was slipping away under Biden, who "has not been able make the case for Ukraine and build American public enthusiasm for the Ukraine policy." But he believes that Harris is capable of making that case for Ukraine. "She is a former prosecutor," he said. "She will come up with more forceful policies." Its yet unclear if Harris will make some crucial decisions necessary for Ukraine's victory, such as lifting restrictions on the use of American weapons against Russian territory. There is hope in Washington that should Harris win in November, her national security advisor Phil Gordon will replace Bidens National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, who is viewed as being fearful of escalation with Russia at Ukraines peril. Meanwhile, Volodymyr Aryev, a Ukrainian lawmaker from ex-President Petro Poroshenkos European Solidarity party, said that what Ukraine needs most is to preserve longstanding bipartisan support with U.S. legislators. Both candidates, he said, have upsides and downsides for Ukraine but Kyiv should work with both sides in the election and use all forms of diplomacy to connect with them. We shouldn't interfere in the U.S. election on anyone's side, he said. If we back someone, and the other side wins, it will be difficult for us. Reporting by Oleg Sukhov in Kyiv, Owen Racer in New York City and Nate Ostiller in Tbilisi. Read also: Harris VP pick Governor Tim Walz good news for Ukraine Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Former President Donald Trump doesnt hide his desire for revenge against prosecutors he considers his political enemies for bringing criminal charges against him. But how could a reelected Trump use the legal system against those perceived enemies? Project 2025, the conservative Heritage Foundations policy agenda for the next Republican presidency, provides a road map one that leads to the steps of the Fulton County Courthouse and the Georgia legislature. Trump has tried to distance himself from the controversial, 900-page document, even though major parts of it were written by officials from his administration. That includes a section that imagines the Justice Department as a partisan agency that would be under the presidents direct control rather than an independent law enforcement bureau. That would give Trump free rein to interfere in local law enforcement and prosecution, and the details of how it might work are ripped from the headlines here in Georgia. This is a tax on the notion of democracy and the ability of local folks primarily Black folks to govern themselves, said Cliff Albright, co-founder and executive director of Black Voters Matter. Project 2025s proposes retooling the Justice Department in several ways, including: expanding federal use of the death penalty (Page 554); ending the independence of the FBI by removing the congressionally mandated 10-year term for its director, instead making the FBI director serve at the pleasure of the president (Page 551); imposing a federal crackdown on violent crime that has increased across the United States, despite evidence that those crimes are in decline nationally since the pandemic era and were in a decades-long downward trend before that. (Page 552); inserting the federal government into local policing and prosecutions when the president believes local officials have allowed criminals to evade responsibility (Page 553); and prescribing undefined legal action against local prosecutors and other officials, for jurisdictions that refuse to enforce the law against criminals based on the Lefts favored defining characteristics of the would-be offender (race, so-called gender identity, sexual orientation, etc.) or other political considerations (e.g., immigration status). This proposal also opens the door to targeting prosecutors who have quarreled with Trump. Legal experts who Capital B asked to interpret the proposals said many of them had weak legal premises. I thought that this particular part about legal action versus DAs was very weak, said Jim Fleissner, law professor at Mercer University and former federal prosecutor. He added that there is no legal precedent for the federal government to get involved in a civil case against a local district attorney. How would Project 2025 give Trump control of the Justice Department? Since the Watergate scandal in the 1970s, Fleissner said it has been accepted practice by Republican and Democratic presidents that the White House stays out of prosecutorial decision-making. While the final call ultimately rests with an attorney general who is appointed by the president, this still creates a layer of separation between the White House and the DOJ. Although it isnt law, the DOJ also has its own set of rules governing communications between department employees and the White House. But in the view of this report, because the Department of Justice is part of the executive branch and the president is head of the executive branch, all decisions of the department need to be consistent with the presidents agenda, Fleissner said. How would a partisan Justice Department impact Georgia? Such changes to the Justice Department could leave local prosecutors in Georgias blue pockets vulnerable to retaliation from the federal government, including the six DAs who pledged not to prosecute women for seeking abortion care after Roe v. Wade was overturned, or the Chatham County DA who decided not to prosecute anyone for possession of less than an ounce of marijuana. Some of the Project 2025 proposals mirror laws that passed in the Georgia legislatures last session, like Senate Bill 332, which revived a prosecutorial oversight commission. The move was interpreted as a way to target Fulton County DA Fani Willis, who indicted Trump and a number of his associates on racketeering charges last year. State Rep. Darshun Kendrick, who represents parts of Gwinnett, DeKalb, and Rockdale counties, said that while she supports prosecutorial oversight, she voted against SB 332 and opposes the Project 2025 plan. Kendrick, an attorney and the ranking Democrat on the state House Judiciary Committee, pointed out that Republicans balked when Democrats introduced a similar bill after former Brunswick Judicial Circuit District Attorney Jackie Johnson was accused of interfering with the investigation into the killing of Ahmaud Arbery. There was never a hearing on that bill because they pointed out to us that there is already a process through the State Bars Judicial Qualifications Council to actually get rid of prosecutors, she said. Chapter 17 also suggests the DOJ initiate legal action against district attorneys who the administration perceives as being soft on crime. If there is a prosecutor doing an egregious job that should be removed from office before the next election, Kendrick said the State Bar of Georgia and a well-defined impeachment process already serve as safeguards. This [Project 2025] measure, like the Senate bill, is like killing a fly by hitting it with a bazooka in my opinion, she said. Will Project 2025 really be activated if Trump wins? Trump has publicly distanced himself from Project 2025, but the primary author of chapter 17, Gene Hamilton, was a Justice Department and Homeland Security official in Trumps administration who worked to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and helped to create the family separation policy at the countrys southern border. Hamiltons proposal to use federal law enforcement and federal prosecutors to reach into local matters wouldnt be the first time a Trump administration has used federal law enforcement in jurisdictions it believes are run by the left. In October 2020, then-President Trump bragged about the U.S. Marshals killing a murder suspect in Portland, Oregon. The post Project 2025: How a Conservative Justice Department Could Affect Georgia appeared first on Capital B News - Atlanta. (COLORADO SPRINGS) A planned project that would repurpose the Union Printers Home property near Memorial Park into a mixed-use and housing development has been unanimously approved by Colorado Springs City Council. The Printers Hill project, aimed to rezone the land where the historic landmark stands on Union Boulevard, in order to develop the property into bars, restaurants, cafes, and retail spaces, with the possibility of hotels, apartments, and condos. The project passed its first hurdle after it was approved on May 8 by the Colorado Springs Planning Commission, before heading to City Council. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Breathing new life into the Union Printers Home At a City Council meeting on June 25, the Union Printers Home site was officially designated as mixed-use, permitting a combination of residential, commercial, and retail spaces, among other uses. Courtesy: Sasaki/UPH Partners Courtesy: Sasaki/UPH Partners Courtesy: Sasaki/UPH Partners Courtesy: FOX21 News file photo Courtesy: Maggy Wolanske, FOX21 News MMJ Courtesy: Maggy Wolanske, FOX21 News MMJ Courtesy: Maggy Wolanske, FOX21 News MMJ Courtesy: Ellie Hinkle, Director of History and Archives for Union Printers Home Partners The Partners could not be more thrilled with both the Colorado Springs Planning Commissions and City Councils recent endorsement of the project and our mission to preserve, revitalize, and energize the Union Printers Home and its iconic campus, said Susan Pattee, with Union Printers Home (UPH) Partners. Our carefully crafted masterplan will enable us to steward a redevelopment strategy of the property into a destination for the City of Colorado Springs, the Front Range, and beyond. In partnership with the community and our citizens, we seek to assure an authentic Printers Hill mixed-use neighborhood that will be a source of inspiration and community pride. The UPH Partners would like feedback from the community on how the space can best be utilized. You can offer your suggestions and comments through the survey here. Whats next for the Printers Hill Project? Now that the development has been approved by the Planning Commission and City Council, organizers behind the project say there are several general steps that need to be taken, such as the formation of the Printers Hill Metropolitan District and Urban Renewal Authority designation, as well as starting on specific development plans for buildings, parking areas, utilities, roadways, etc. There is no set timeline for construction, though the hope is that the project will get underway in 2026. As for the nearly 130 years worth of history inside the Union Printers Home buildings, including documents, photographs, and artifacts, much of it has already been collected and sorted, to be used for archival and historical research purposes. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. WATSEKA, Ill. (WCIA) One person was sent to the hospital after a propane truck ended up in a ditch in Watseka. The rollover accident happened just before 10:30 a.m. Monday on South Belmont Avenue near Legion Park. When the Watseka Fire Department arrived at the scene, they found a Hicksgas propane truck rolled over on its side in the roads east ditch. Felon arrested in Mattoon after I-57 police chase Officials said the truck driver was already out of the damaged truck and had secured all valves by the time first responders arrived. Riverside EMS took the driver to the hospital while firefighters kept an eye out for leaking propane. The Watseka Police Department, the Iroquois County Sheriffs Office, and Iroquois County EMA also assisted at the scene. A tow company soon arrived to remove the vehicle. No HAZMAT release occurred. The scene was cleared by 1:30 p.m. The Watseka Fire Department said the cause behind the accident is still undetermined. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. TAIPEI (Reuters) -Taiwan stocks closed higher on Tuesday from a record plunge on Monday, with contract chipmaker TSMC up 8%, but sentiment remains cautious amid lingering investor concerns about the outlook for tech companies and the U.S. economy. The main index ended up 3.4% after climbing to as high as 20,640.44 points during the session. It plummeted a record 8.4% on Monday along with global markets amid fears the United States could be heading for recession and as investors sought refuge from riskier assets. Shares in the dominant technology stock TSMC, the world's largest contract chipmaker, finished up 8%. TSMC is the world's largest contract chipmaker and a supplier to Nvidia. "Investors are mostly concerned about the U.S. economy and the rapid rise of the yen. So yesterday's plunge was inevitable," said Jeff Chang, chairman of Cathay Securities Investment Trust, which oversees more than T$1 trillion ($30.3 billion) in client assets. "We think the Taiwan main index has dropped to a level with strong technical support. But we can expect to see consolidation for a while," he said. "Looking at fundamentals of the AI industry, nothing has changed compared to a month ago. It's a good buying opportunity for AI shares, both now and when they dip in the future," Chang said. Other major-weighted tech stocks also rebounded. Mediatek was up 8.5% while Quanta rose 3.1%. Premier Cho Jung-tai told reporters on Tuesday the fundamentals of Taiwan's economy were "very solid", adding authorities will closely monitor the market situation. Taiwan Stock Exchange President Lih-Chung Chien has said the bourse would work with regulators to maintain stability when needed. (Reporting by Faith Hung and Yimou Lee; Editing by Jacqueline Wong, James Pomfret, Kim Coghill and Sonali Paul) Proposal could could open door to Omaha City Council ousting one of its own The Omaha City Council in the Omaha City Council chambers. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner) OMAHA A Nebraska lawmaker and a statewide civil rights organization have joined the chorus raising a red flag on a proposal that could empower the Omaha City Council to oust one of its own from an elected seat. The Omaha City Council is to vote Tuesday, Aug. 6, on whether to establish a code of conduct that lays out a path to reporting and investigating behavior violations of council members and for ultimately removing an elected council member. To invoke that power of removal, the Omaha City Charter would first have to be amended. On Tuesday, the council is to vote also on a measure to place a related charter amendment on the November ballot. ACLU, state lawmaker weigh in Much of the criticism over the code of conduct, expressed during a public hearing last week and by others since, is that it appears targeted to the lone person of color on the council, Councilwoman Juanita Johnson, who has at times conflicted with Mayor Jean Stothert and members of her cabinet. State Sen. Terrell McKinney of North Omaha told the City Council that while he does not oppose codes of conduct in government, he believes they should be equitable, clearly defined, and just. While this ordinance may be long overdue, its introduction at this time, considering the current makeup of the council, feels like a targeted effort against a specific council member, McKinney said in a statement. This should be frowned upon and not allowed. The American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska lodged concerns as well, cautioning the council against adopting a tool that could be used to censor important conversations. It must be applied evenly to all those subject to it to ensure that it is not used as pretext for discrimination, ACLU-Nebraska policy director Scout Richters told the council in a statement. North Omaha resident Cheryl Weston was among opponents who said she viewed the code of conduct as a potential form of voter suppression. Youre taking away the vote of the people, Weston said during a public hearing last week before the council. Dorothy Johnson said that as an African-American woman and a vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion for a global firm she views ramifications of the code of conduct as oppressive and scapegoating. Not a unique concept City attorney Matt Kuhse said, however, that the code of conduct is not a unique concept for legislative bodies and that it is intended to create standards of behavior that council members must adhere to in their official role and in interactions with city employees. Having such standards of conduct prevents actions or acts that would not be in the best interests of the City of Omaha, he wrote in a statement attached to the proposed ordinance. The code, he said, came at the request of the City Councils Law Committee, which is composed of council members Danny Begley, Brinker Harding and Aimee Melton. As a result of comments during last weeks council meeting, the Law Department has proposed limiting the type of violations for which a council member could be expelled: racial or sexual discrimination; severe and pervasive mistreatment of city staff; conviction of a crime of violence; and having a personal financial interest in a contract or transaction under consideration by the city. Another change calls for six of the seven City Council members, rather than five, to agree that removal from office is suitable, Kuhse said. Under the proposed code, a council member or city employee could file a complaint to the City Attorney, which would review circumstances along with the City Human Resources Director. The two department heads could call for an investigation and potential punishment could range from a reprimand to, if the charter amendment passed, an ouster of a council member from office after a public hearing. Other reasons for removal The charter amendment that would be placed on the November ballot, if the City Council agrees, calls for two other changes related to removing a council member from office. Those provisions have raised relatively little outcry. One calls for members to be ousted if they ceased to be residents of the council district they were elected to represent, unless the move occurs as a result of redistricting. The second is that a council member could be expelled after missing four consecutive council meetings without being excused by the council. Currently, members lose their seat for missing three unexcused consecutive months of meetings. Weston said the council was moving too fast and without sufficient community outreach, particularly with regard to the code of conduct. Youre not respecting the people when you dont host city town hall meetings to say, Hey, this is whats coming up, this is something important and could take away your vote. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Marion County Record editor and publisher Eric Meyer sits in the newsroom on July 25, 2024. His paper was raided a year ago by local officials. (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector) If you read special prosecutors report about last years raid on the Marion County Record newspaper, the abuse of power by law enforcement sounds like an immaculate deception. Officials who carted off computers and cellphones from the Record on a flimsy pretext didnt do so out of ill will, according to Marc Bennett and Barry Wilkerson. The fact that a Marion County Record reporter had investigated Police Chief Gideon Cody? The fact that 98-year-old newspaper co-owner Joan Meyer died the day after the raid? Both dismissed as immaterial. The damage done to journalism and journalists across the United States? Simply not their problem. With lawsuits about the raid thick on the ground, Bennett and Wilkerson arent commenting further. Its a shame, given all the loose ends and unanswered questions. Marion raid commentary The dynamic duo did two things right. First, they lay out in exhaustive detail why Record editor and publisher Eric Meyer and reporter Phyllis Zorn committed no crimes in their everyday work of pursuing a story about restaurateur Kari Newell. But we all already knew that. Reporting on the circumstances around the raid had been clear for ages. Second, they recommend the filing of a low-level felony charge against Cody. Unfortunately, the charge had nothing to do with the raids conception or execution. It instead focuses on his request to Newell that she delete text messages between the two of them. The special prosecutors note in the 124-page report that they are not reviewing whether federal laws were broken, or whether officials might be found guilty in a civil case. We understand that state criminal charges might not be possible against some of them, Meyer said yesterday. Thats why federal civil suits will continue, why there should be public outrage over some officials failure to perform the most fundamental responsibilities of their positions, and why state laws allowing them to escape responsibility may need to be changed. Freedom of the Press Foundation advocacy director Seth Stern went even further. Americans across the country and the political spectrum were outraged by what Record co-owner Joan Meyer called Hitler tactics, Stern said. He added: While we welcome the news that the former police chief who orchestrated the raid, Gideon Cody, will be criminally charged, he shouldve been charged with more than after-the-fact obstruction the raid itself was criminal. And Cody is far from the only one at fault here. We hope he and everyone else behind the raid will also be held accountable, through the criminal courts, civil courts, and courts of public opinion. They should never work in law enforcement or government again. Beyond these top-line findings, the report raises a number of uncomfortable questions. All of those who might have put a stop to Codys quest to raid the newspaper offered explanations as to why they simply cant be blamed. That includes Kansas Bureau of Investigation special agent in charge Bethanie Popejoy, County Attorney Joel Ensey and Magistrate Judge Laura Viar. Their reasons appear simple and logical in isolation. But when combined, you cant help but wonder if Cody has been left out to dry by local and state officials, eager to wash their hands of an investigation that spiraled out of control. For example, Popejoy told investigators that Cody was a rabid squirrel in a cage and just off doing his own thing. Yet she sent him a text message, quoted in the report, that reads: I know you fell like youre out on a limb, but there are amazing minds working behind the scenes to help you and support you. Were here with you, so hang in there with us. Former Marion mayor David Mayfield was interviewed for the report, and his name crops up incidentally a handful of times. But according to a lawsuit filed by the newspaper against local officials in April, Mayfield ordered the raid and called journalists the real villains in America. Did investigators from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, who took on the case from the KBI, focus too closely on a small cast of characters? Speaking of the KBI, Director Tony Mattivi has some explaining of his own to do. Two days after the raid, he said that in order to investigate and gather facts, the KBI commonly executes search warrants on police departments, sheriffs offices, and at city, county and state offices. We have investigated those who work at schools, churches and at all levels of public service. No one is above the law, whether a public official or a representative of the media. Given that his agency now disavows any knowledge of or involvement in the Marion raid, I wonder if the director wishes he had said that differently. I also wonder who advised him on the situation at the newspaper and about the wisdom of making such a statement. I asked KBI spokeswoman Melissa Underwood, who forwarded a statement that raises more questions. It reads in part: Even though agents did not play a role in executing the search warrants, on Sept. 19, 2023, agents attended additional training presented by the Kansas County and District Attorney Association regarding the protections and special legal considerations afforded to the press, clergy, appointed counsel, and mental health professionals. Good to know that while apparently no one at the KBI made any mistakes, they received additional training to ensure they continued not making any mistakes. Kansas Bureau of Investigation director Tony Mattivi, center, told an interim committee of the Kansas Legislature that it would be a mistake to undermine the state's civil asset forfeiture system for seizing cash and property of people allegedly engaged in criminal conduct. Finally, we come to the phone call. Reading the report, the special prosecutors transcribe a phone call between Officer Zach Hudlin (now the Marion police chief) and a Kansas Department of Revenue representative. Officials would use that call as justification for much that followed. Yet media lawyer Max Kautsch told me that call shows how poorly local officials handled the case. The report reveals countless instances of law enforcements mistakes, including, crucially, Officer Hudlin reach(ing) what appears to have been an honest but mistaken conclusion that journalist Phyllis Zorn had falsified her name and motives to gain access to the KDOR records, Kautsch said, quoting from the report. But that conclusion doesnt hold water upon even a cursory review of the transcript of the phone call between KDOR and Hudlin, which leads to the inescapable conclusion that, at most, the KDOR was concerned about how to regulate access to its website in the future. There is literally nothing in the transcript to suggest that KDOR had told Hudlin that Zorn or anyone else had committed a crime by accessing the KDORs website. Honest but mistaken. Thats the key to the sleight of hand performed repeatedly by Bennett and Wilkerson. Sure, officials may have violated the U.S. Constitution and individual rights. They may have run roughshod over due process and state law. But they thought they were doing the right thing, which excuses them. Shockingly, the special prosecutors write: It is not a crime under Kansas law for a law enforcement officer to conduct a poor investigation and reach erroneous conclusions. So what is it, then? Here are the facts. Law-enforcement officials brazenly abused their power in Marion. They did so on based on tissue-thin speculation, costing Joan Meyers life along the way. They sent a chilling message to journalist across the United States. Even today, the towns journalists and residents struggle to put the pieces back together. The special prosecutors cleared the lowest possible bar in their conclusions that no one at the Record broke the law in doing the basic work of journalism. But they did not serve the cause of justice. Clay Wirestone is Kansas Reflector opinion editor. Through its opinion section, Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary, here. A local fire department is expanding its capabilities to help protect visitors to one of Pennsylvania's most visited state parks. Porters Volunteer Fire Company, which protects Heidelberg Township and nearby areas including portions of Lake Marburg at Codorus State Park, has added a rescue boat to their equipment roster for the first time in the company's history. The new vessel, Boat 53, is a 16-foot Zodiac MilPro Mark III inflatable rescue boat with a 40-horsepower motor, said Porters Volunteer Fire Chief Chris Walker. The boat was just placed in service on Aug. 5, 2024. The new Boat 53 of Porters Volunteer Fire Company is seen at the fire station, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, in Heidelberg Township. Report from 2018: York County flooding: Washed-out roads, debris scattered in Spring Grove area While obtaining a rescue boat has been considered at the firehouse for decades, Walker said that among the driving forces for the addition of the boat was a flash flooding incident the department experienced in July of 2018. During that time, the area was inundated by flash flooding that required numerous victims to be rescued from high water in the area, and even washed out Krafts Mill Road in Heidelberg Township. Due to Porters not having a boat, the department relied on the services of its neighboring fire departments, which assisted on any water rescue call. While many members were already certified in water rescue, they would have to operate from the shoreline or from neighboring departments' boats. In the immediate area, Pleasant Hill Volunteer Fire Company, Glen Rock Fire Company, and Northeast Adams Fire & EMS of East Berlin all have rescue boats and water rescue teams that would respond to Porters' response area to assist. Volunteer firefighters from Porters Volunteer Fire Company drill on their newly acquired Boat 53 at Codorus State Park. In the wake of the 2018 incident, however, momentum on the department obtaining its own rescue boat increased, Walker said. While the fire company began researching the water rescue needs for their area, they also began further coordination with neighboring departments. Among the most important hazards in Porters' response area is the 1,275 acres of Lake Marburg, located in the sprawling Codorus State Park. The park is the fifth-most visited in the state and brings around 1.3 million visitors a year to the rural area, according to DCNR, a number that Walker notes is higher than the population of multiple neighboring counties combined. Related: Pennsylvania has 124 state parks, here are the 10 that have the most visitors Lake Marburg is particularly dangerous due to the dense vegetation that lurks under its water, Walker said. While swimming is not permitted in the lake, many drownings at the lake occur when people swim despite the warnings and find themselves tangled in the underwater plants. Codorus State Park, due to its vast size, spans Heidelberg Township, Manheim Township, West Manheim Township and Penn Township. Porters protects the Heidelberg Township section of the park, which includes the Smith Station boat launch, the sailboat launch and the Hoff Road launch. Equipment is seen on the new Boat 53 of Porters Volunteer Fire Company is seen at the fire station, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, in Heidelberg Township Pleasant Hill Volunteer Fire Department protects the largest portion of the park, covering West Manheim Township and a portion of Manheim Township, while Jefferson Volunteer Fire Department covers the remainder of Manheim Township, and Hanover Area Fire & Rescue protects the small Penn Township portion of the park. "We're all trying to work together to serve the visitors of Lake Marburg," said Walker. "We're not here for a competition." In 2023, Porters, along with Pleasant Hill and Jefferson, all mirrored their water rescue response assignments to Lake Marburg, Walker said, ensuring that the same equipment was dispatched to the lake no matter what municipality the call originated from in the lake. Prior to obtaining the new rescue boat, water rescue personnel from Porters would often catch rides with the DCNR park rangers boat, which is kept on the lake, or on the boats of Pleasant Hill. A 40-horsepower motor is seen on the new Boat 53 of Porters Volunteer Fire Company is seen at the fire station, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, in Heidelberg Township Now, Porters' personnel will be able to additionally respond with their own boat. The 16-foot boat can handle 9 passengers safely, Walker said, and is capable of towing any disabled vessel on Lake Marburg thanks to its 40-horsepower motor, a frequent call that emergency services handle on the lake. With the higher horsepower motor, the boat can additionally respond to swift water situations in the area, with the additional horsepower helping to fight fast-moving water. Walker notes that several local creeks have been known to become swift water situations during extreme flooding conditions. The motor is pre-connected to the boat, which allows crews to rapidly get the boat underway once it arrives to a body of water. Bags of water rescue equipment are seen on the new Boat 53 of Porters Volunteer Fire Company is seen at the fire station, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, in Heidelberg Township The boat also carries the department's water rescue equipment, including throw bags, rescue poles, PFDs, rope bags, cinch collars, a handheld spotlight, and more. Additional equipment includes towing equipment, first aid equipment, extra gasoline, sunscreen and window breakers for submerged vehicles. Prior to the boat being placed in service, the department held numerous trainings at Lake Marburg to familiarize firefighters on its equipment, Walker said. That included a recent countywide water rescue training hosted by the York County Advanced Technical Rescue team, which was held at the lake. During that training, volunteers from Porters were able to drill alongside the numerous water rescue resources around the county, ensuring they were all familiar with each other's equipment. Assisting Porters with the purchase of the boat and its trailer was a grant from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner, which paid for the majority of the purchase, Walker said. Along with the boat, the department recently purchased a new utility vehicle, a 2023 Ford, which can pull the boat. If the utility is not available, the department's brush truck can also pull it, or any of the chief's vehicles, Walker said. Harrison Jones is the Hanover reporter for the Evening Sun. Reach him at hjones@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Hanover Evening Sun: See York County's newest water rescue boat FILE- Nobel Peace Prize winners Muhammad Yunus, right, and Grameen Bank representative Mosammat Taslima Begum display their medals and diplomas at City Hall in Oslo, Norway Sunday Dec. 10, 2006. (AP Photo/John McConnico, File) DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus has been chosen to head Bangladeshs interim government after the nation's longtime prime minister resigned and fled abroad in the face of a broad uprising against her rule. Known as the banker to the poorest of the poor and a longtime critic of the ousted Sheikh Hasina, Yunus will act as a caretaker premier until new elections are held. The decision followed a meeting late Tuesday that included student protest leaders, military chiefs, civil society members and business leaders. Hasina was forced to flee Monday after weeks of protests over a quota system for allocating government jobs turned into a broader challenge to her 15-year rule, which was marked by a rising economy but an increasingly authoritarian streak. Hasinas departure has plunged bangladesh into a political crisis. The army has temporarily taken control, but it is unclear what its role would be in an interim government after the president dissolved Parliament on Tuesday to pave the way for elections. Student leaders who organized the protests have wanted Yunus, who is currently in Paris for the Olympics as an adviser to its organizers, to lead an interim government. He could not immediately be reached for comment, but key student leader Nahid Islam asserted that Yunus agreed to step in during a discussion with them. The 83-year-old is a well-known critic and political opponent of Hasina. Yunus called her resignation the countrys second liberation day. She once called him a bloodsucker. An economist and banker by profession, Yunus was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for pioneering the use of microcredit to help impoverished people, particularly women. The Nobel Peace Prize committee credited Yunus and his Grameen Bank for their efforts to create economic and social development from below. Yunus founded Grameen Bank in 1983 to provide small loans to entrepreneurs who would not normally qualify to receive them. The banks success in lifting people out of poverty led to similar microfinancing efforts in other countries. He ran into trouble with Hasina in 2008, when her administration launched a series of investigations into him. He had announced he would form a political party in 2007 when the country was run by a military-backed government but did not follow through. During the investigations, Hasina accused Yunus of using force and other means to recover loans from poor rural women as the head of Grameen Bank. Yunus denied the allegations. Hasinas government began reviewing the banks activities in 2011, and Yunus was fired as managing director for allegedly violating government retirement regulations. He was put on trial in 2013 on charges of receiving money without government permission, including his Nobel Prize and royalties from a book. He later faced more charges involving other companies he created, including Grameen Telecom, which is part of the countrys largest mobile phone company, GrameenPhone, a subsidiary of Norwegian telecom giant Telenor. In 2023, some former Grameen Telecom workers filed a case against Yunus accusing him of siphoning off their job benefits. He denied the accusations. Earlier this year, a special judges court in Bangladesh indicted Yunus and 13 others on charges over the $2 million embezzlement case. Yunus pleaded not guilty and is out on bail for now. Yunus' supporters say he has been targeted because of his frosty relations with Hasina. Yunus was born in 1940 in Chittagong, a seaport city in Bangladesh. He received his PhD from Vanderbilt University in the United States and taught there briefly before returning to Bangladesh. In a 2004 interview with The Associated Press, Yunus said he had a eureka movement to establish Grameen Bank when he met a poor woman weaving bamboo stools who was struggling pay her debts. I couldnt understand how she could be so poor when she was making such beautiful things, he recalled in the interview. ___ Saaliq reported from New Delhi. A dog photographed at Dunroven Farms in Newell, Iowa. The business, which once included dogs and puppies, now deals only in cats and kittens. (Photo from Bailing Out Benji, courtesy of Dunroven Farms) Federal inspectors cited five Iowa breeders of dogs or cats for regulatory violations during the second quarter of 2024. The Iowa-based animal advocacy group Bailing Out Benji on Tuesday published its quarterly review of violations cited at puppy mills across the country. The report shows that kennels in 16 states were cited for violations by the U.S. Department of Agriculture between April 1 and June 30. The states with the highest number of violators were Ohio, with 14; Missouri, with 11; New York and Wisconsin, with 10 each; Pennsylvania, with seven; and Indiana, with six. Iowa had a total of five breeders cited for violations: Heath Meyers of Century Farm Puppies in Grundy Center This breeder, which had 125 adult dogs and 134 puppies on hand when visited by inspectors this past quarter, was also cited for violations in the first quarter of 2024 and throughout 2023. During an April 23 inspection by the USDA, Meyers was cited for one direct violation pertaining to inadequate veterinary care, and four noncritical violations pertaining to watering, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, pest control, veterinary care and other issues. The inspector noted that while Meyers had a total of 159 dogs and puppies on hand, the maximum number of animals he was allowed to have on hand was 150, raising questions as to whether Meyers was capable of providing care for that number of animals. A female spaniel named Willow was noted as having a large irregularly shaped wound on her side that measured five inches by three inches. The wound exposes fresh, moist, reddened tissue where the skin had rolled away, the inspector reported. There is a creamy, white-to-yellow discharge along the top edge of the wound along the back of the dog and covering approximately 70% of the open wound Another wound was found on the right side of the dogs neck, approximately two inches by two inches in size. Also, a female bichon named Luna was in poor dental health with bloody gums. The inspector reported she was unable to examine the teeth more closely due to the dog reacting painfully to the exam. The spaniel and the bichon were taken to a veterinarian during the inspection process. The inspector also made note of two female bichons that had no access to water while in an outdoor exercise yard. In addition, the kennel had not been sanitizing as often as necessary to prevent an accumulation of organic debris in the dog enclosures, and Meyers had no medical records for two adult dogs and one puppy. Larry Albrecht of Coldwater Kennel in Greene This kennel had 196 adult dogs and 108 puppies on hand at the time of its April 8 inspection. Albrecht was cited for one direct violation pertaining to inadequate veterinary care. The inspector reported that Albrecht failed to have frequent and direct communication with their attending veterinarian regarding the emaciated body condition of one female shih tzu named Dazzle. Four weeks prior to the inspection, the dog had given birth to eight puppies, seven of which were stillborn. The dogs food bowl was empty at the time of the inspection, so she was offered a bowl of mush concocted by the kennel. The dog smelled it and walked away, the inspector reported. (She) has visible ribs, vertebrae and hip bones with little to no fat or muscle covering. The hair coat is thin and patchy as well with little to no hair on her tail. Albrecht had never contacted the business attending veterinarian regarding the emaciated dog, the inspector reported. The inspector gave Albrecht 48 hours to have the dog evaluated by a licensed veterinarian and to develop a treatment plan. Bailing Out Benji reports that it has records of Albrecht selling to pet stores in Delaware and Indiana. Albrecht was cited for violations in the first quarter of 2024, and was cited at various times in 2023, 2022 and 2021. Thomas and Nancy Carlson of New Designs Kennel in Rockwell City At the time of its May 20 inspection, the kennel had 39 adult dogs and 14 puppies on hand. The Carlsons were cited for two noncritical violations pertaining to contingency planning and veterinary care. The inspector reported that a male dachshund named Stanley had been examined by a veterinarian in January but given no plan of treatment for an abnormal dental condition of some kind. The Carlsons were also cited with violations in the second quarter of 2023. Tom and Jody VandeWeerd of Riverside Kennels in Rock Rapids At the time of its June 12 inspection, this kennel had 39 adult dogs and 36 puppies on hand. The kennel was cited for one noncritical violation pertaining to its housing facilities for dogs. Several dog doors in the main shelter kennel had metal hinges, most of which were excessively rusty and/or corroding, the inspector reported, noting that the situation could increase the risk of disease and injuries. Bailing Out Benji reports that it has records indicating the VandeWeerds sell to pet stores in Connecticut and South Dakota. Ross and Valorie Craig of Dunroven Farms in Newell At the time of this business June 27 inspection, it had 32 cats and 13 kittens on hand. Dunroven Farms was cited for four noncritical violations pertaining to the time and method of animal identification, recordkeeping, housing facilities and watering. The inspector noted that there were at least eight cats over the age of 16 weeks that no microchip implanted or on their collars for identification and USDA tracking. The business also lacked information as to how it acquired eight adult cats and lacked information on the disposition of three adult cats. Several surfaces in a building holding four adult cats had red, pitted rust present, including a baseboard heater and three self-feeders. Also, the water receptacles in a building housing 23 cats and 13 kittens were in such a state that they could no longer be sanitized. A brown calcium buildup is present in the water receptacles due to hard water at the facility, the inspector reported. While the facility has attempted to remove the calcium buildup, it has not removed it. The rough surface of calcium buildup may cause disease hazards and may affect the health of the animals. A twin-engine fighter jet bearing Turkeys red and white flag on its tail coasted down a runway at an air base near the capital Ankara in February. The aircraft somewhat similar in style to an American F-22 or F-35 picked up speed and lifted off. When the fighter, dubbed Kaan, landed 13 minutes later, a mob of revelers flooded the flight line to celebrate with hugs, applause and cheers not only for the jet but what it represented. Turkey had flown its first homemade prototype fighter jet, which manufacturer Turkish Aerospace Industries says will have fifth-generation stealth capabilities and the weapons capacity to rival or surpass the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. Kaans debut came almost 13 years after Turkey began developing its own combat aircraft, and four years after the U.S. kicked Turkey out of the F-35 program over the countrys plan to buy S-400 air defense systems from Russia. That punishment failed to deter Turkey from pursuing the S-400, and instead of the F-35, the country focused on its own indigenous fighter jet. Turkeys efforts to go it alone have proved fortuitous for TAI. In Defense News latest Top 100 list, which ranks companies around the world by defense revenue, TAI jumped from 58th place to 50th as its defense revenue ballooned nearly 50% to $2.2 billion in fiscal 2023. The Top 100 is here: Find out how defense companies performed in FY23 TAI isnt the only firm seeing rising revenues. As Russia presses its invasion of Ukraine, Israel attacks Hamas in the Gaza Strip, the U.S. and several allies fight Yemen-based Houthi rebels, and tension over Taiwans independence and disputed territory in the South China Sea proliferates, nations are increasing their defense spending and businesses are seeing their revenues climb. Theres definitely a trend there, said Stuart Dee, a European defense research leader at the think tank Rand. This rapid and marked re-securitization with three fronts of potential geopolitical instability Ukraine; Israel, Gaza and the Red Sea; and then Taiwan what were seeing all at once is a whole lot of capability backfilling going on, right across the board. A piece of the pie Defense News each year ranks the top defense contractors for its Top 100 list, by collecting and tallying information on firms revenues from the companies, earnings reports, analysts and other research. Mega-firms based in the U.S., such as Lockheed Martin, RTX, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics and Boeing, remain some of the largest defense companies worldwide, as reflected in this years list. But there are signs that non-U.S. businesses are playing greater roles across the sector. For example, Aviation Industry Corp. of China is now ranked as the second-largest defense firm in the world, behind only Lockheed Martin. The Asian business saw its defense revenue jump by 45% from FY22 to FY23. Over the last five years, the worldwide defense revenue share of Asia-based companies (including those in Russia) that have made the Top 100 rankings has fluctuated, but did increase from 16% to 21% from last years list to this latest version. The share for U.S.-based firms also fluctuated over the last five years, but declined from 59% to 54% from last years list to this years iteration. For Europe-based businesses, including Turkey and Ukraine, the defense revenue share didnt change much over the last five years. In FY23, they took up 21% of the worldwide pie. Notably, the Ukrainian Defense Industrys defense revenue, which amounted to about $651 million in FY20, has skyrocketed to $2.2 billion. The company formerly known as Ukroboronprom jumped 16 spots on the most recent Top 100 list to 49th place. Wartime footing The rising defense revenues among Asian and European firms likely reflect an enhanced understanding of security challenges in the global environment, according to Cynthia Cook, who leads a defense industry research team at the Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank. Russias invasion of Ukraine pushed NATO members to spend more on military efforts, she told Defense News. In 2014, the year Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine, just three NATO allies met guidelines to spend at least 2% of their respective gross domestic products on defense; that number is expected to reach 23 this year, according to the alliance, which based its findings on 2015 rates. And NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said in February that European members will spend a cumulative $380 billion on defense this year, reaching a new record. In comparison, using the same rates, European allies spent $250 billion in 2014. From left, then-Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak looks at tanks with a South Korean official and Polish President Andrzej Duda on Dec. 6, 2022. (Mateusz Slodkowski/AFP via Getty) The increase in spending and the growth of European defense contractors is an important start for the rebuilding of their industrial base, which will be necessary in any future conflict, Cook said. European nations, especially places like Poland, are looking to the right to the Russian threat on their immediate border. And [Russian President Vladimir] Putin has not ever said anything like: Well, were just going to take over Ukraine and then sit tight. Hes pretty bold in his territorial ambitions. Hed like to do a Soviet reunion. And in Asia, Cook noted, Japan and South Korea are increasing their defense spending in light of potential threats from China and North Korea. Chinas industrial base is on a wartime footing if you look at things like how many ships theyre producing and so forth, she said. But its not just American allies investing in defense, she added. After initial setbacks in Ukraine, Russia has poured money into reconstituting its military with success that surprised some Western observers. Russia has ramped up its production, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in April. All of their defense industry really answers directly to the state, so its easier for them to do that a bit quicker. Shopping local Global military spending has skyrocketed in recent years, reaching a record $2.4 trillion in 2023, according to an April report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. That was the ninth straight year in which defense spending increased. Defense spending is up, Rands Dee said. But at the same time, what that is being spent on is increasingly national supply chains [and] local champions so nations can be more self-reliant. Take Turkey, for example. In the past, he said, the country would have bought more off-the-shelf military equipment from foreign providers, primarily from the U.S. But as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans administration pivots away from dependence on the U.S. as a supplier, the nation has invested more into its domestic industrial base, Dee added. This is resulting in Turkey taking a quite interesting hedged relationship with the U.S. when it comes to military imports, he said. Turkey still relies on foreign military sales for much of its bread and butter military capabilities, he added, while also investing in next-generation capabilities with an eye on exports. If you went back 10 years ago, Turkey was an outright defense capability importer, Dee said. Youre starting to actually see Turkey transition to being a defense exporter for the first time. Five Turkish firms made the 2024 list, with Dee specifically pointing to TAI and the missile manufacturer Roketsan as notable examples of local growth. The latter jumped from 80th place on the list to 71st. And while drone maker Baykar did not respond to Defense News requests for data, nor did it publicly share revenue figures by press time, the company touts its abilities as an exporter to 34 nations including Ukraine, whose use of the Bayraktar TB2 drone was an early success story in its war against Russia. A similar pattern is playing out in the United Kingdom, Dee noted. While the U.K. military flies Boeing and Lockheed Martin aircraft, such as Chinook helicopters and F-35s, its sixth-generation fighter program, dubbed Tempest, is largely a British effort. The envisioned Global Combat Air Program fighter, dubbed Tempest, will boast next-gen sensing and data-processing features. (Leonardo) U.K.-based BAE Systems is taking the lead among industry participants, which also include MBDA, Rolls-Royce and Leonardo. BAE Systems landed at the 7th spot on the Top 100 list; Rolls-Royce the 23rd; and Leonardo the 14th. A lot of the [British] next-generation capability investment across the board is going to developing indigenous capability, which is directly benefiting BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, as examples, Dee said. For its part, South Koreas industrial base has always been robust, Cook said, and is also a notable exporter of military equipment. In 2022, Poland struck a $5.8 billion deal to buy Korea Aerospace Industries-made fighter jets, tanks from Hyundai Rotem Co., and howitzers and vehicles from Hanwha Defense. Also in that year, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol pledged to make his nation one of the top weapons suppliers in the world. Three South Korean firms made the list, with Hanwha ranked in 19th place; LIG Nex1 in 58th; and Hyundai Motor Co., of which Hyundai Rotem is an affiliate, in 73rd. And its not only local economic and military issues that are driving further globalization of the defense market. Political turmoil in Washington, which for months stalled U.S. rearming of Ukraine, jolted some European allies into investing more in their own defense industries, according to Saab CEO Micael Johansson. Johansson in February described Americas wavering on Ukrainian support as quite scary to see, adding that Europe must fill any gaps. He called for European governments to make long-term financial commitments with local defense firms to build new production sites and capacity and not let indigenous capabilities wither, as occurred after the Cold War. I am prepared to take risk, but it has to be in some sort of handshake with governments if Im going to do more in terms of new sites, high capacity, Johansson said. We cant afford to dismantle things once more. Saabs defense revenue grew 18% in FY23 to nearly $4.4 billion, bolstered by a $102 million deal with Boeing to build fuselages for the T-7 trainer aircraft and a $1.2 billion contract to an undisclosed customer to provide Carl-Gustaf recoilless rifles. The Swedish firm made the Top 100 list at 29th place. In nearby Norway, Kongsbergs defense revenue jumped 23% to $1.7 billion in FY23. The company, which ranked 59th, builds National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems, which have been sold or donated to Ukraine to bolster its defense against Russia. The Norwegian Army fires a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System against a simulated threat during a 2023 exercise. (Royal Norwegian Navy) A worldwide defense industry that relies less on U.S. firms could be an overall positive development even for American companies, Dee said. The defense-industrial base, while vast, only has so much capacity. For instance, the sector has struggled to produce munitions, such as 155mm shells, at the rate of demand. And so, more companies serving as major players can lead to more capacity, he explained, and more competition. The relative lack of competition in the defense market is one of the primary causes that is often pointed out for consistent cost overruns, Dee said. More competition, within the confines of export control capacity, is a good thing. But a more globalized defense-industrial base could create problems if systems and ammunition created in different countries cant function well together, Cook noted. We want systems to interoperate, and we want ammunition made in one country to fit into the systems of others, she said. That is just hard. You have to set joint requirements, you have to set standards. What do you do with the older systems that may require specific ammo? Do you retrofit them? Theres a lot of questions to think about. By Parisa Hafezi, Laila Bassam and Timour Azhari (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has asked Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for a restrained response to Israel's suspected killing of the leader of Hamas, advising against attacks on Israeli civilians, two senior Iranian sources said. The message, according to the sources, was delivered on Monday by Sergei Shoigu, a senior ally of the Kremlin leader, in meetings with top Iranian officials as the Islamic Republic weighs its response to the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh. Tehran also pressed Moscow for the delivery of Russian made Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets, the two Iranian sources, privy to the meeting in Tehran, the sources told Reuters. In Moscow, the Kremlin did not respond to a request for comment. State-run RIA news agency reported on Tuesday that Shoigu said he discussed Haniyeh's killing on his Tehran visit. The two sources with knowledge of the matter did not provide further details on the talks with Shoigu, who was defence minister before becoming the secretary of Russia's security council in May. They said Shoigu's visit was one of several avenues Moscow had used to relay to Iran the need for restraint while at the same time condemning Haniyeh's killing as "a very dangerous assassination", in a bid to prevent a Middle East war. The Middle East, the sources said, was on the brink of a major war and those behind the assassination were clearly trying to trigger such a conflict. Russia has cultivated closer ties with Iran since the start of its war with Ukraine and has said it is preparing to sign a wide-ranging cooperation agreement with Tehran. There was no immediate comment from Iran's Foreign ministry. On Monday it said Tehran did not seek to raise regional tensions but needed to punish Israel to prevent further instability. DIPLOMACY NO LONGER AN OPTION In Washington, an official from the Biden administration warned on Monday of the risks of a major regional conflict. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, emphasized that the scale of Iran's and Hezbollah's response would be a key factor in determining the extent of a potential conflict. Despite efforts by Western and regional states to persuade Iran to retaliate in a measured way, or not at all, Tehran has told foreign officials it will respond "severely" to the killing of Haniyeh in Tehran, where he attended President Masoud Pezeshkian's inauguration, four Iranian sources independently confirmed. In Lebanon, a prominent Lebanese source close to Hezbollah said "a retaliatory strike is inevitable and diplomacy is no longer a viable option", adding Iran wants the strike to be "severe" but not lead to a regional war. However, he said, this does not rule out the possibility of a war in Lebanon between Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel. A Middle East-focused senior U.S. official said Washington was doing all it can "to dissuade all parties from going to a place they cant get back from," stressing that other states in the region and Europe should do more. A Qatari official said Doha was in constant discussion with Iran to lessen tensions. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant warned on Monday that Israel must be prepared for anything, including a swift transition to offense. The country's response to any attack by Hezbollah or Iran would likely depend more on the damage caused rather than the scale of the attack, according to two sources familiar with recent Israeli assessments. Israeli officials have not claimed responsibility for the killing. Iran backs Hamas, which is at war with Israel in Gaza, and also Hezbollah, with whom Israel has been trading fire since Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7 and ignited the Gaza conflict. (Reporting by Parisa Hafezi, Laila Bassam and Timour Azhari; Additional reporting by Simon Lewis, Humeyra Pamuk, Steve Holland and Phil Stewart in Washington, Samia Nakhoul and Maya Gebeily in Beirut; Maayan Lubell in Jerusalem and Ahmed Rasheed in Baghdad; Writing by Samia Nakhoul, Editing by William Maclean) Putin asks Iran for measured response against Israel, sources tell Reuters Russian President Vladimir Putin asked Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, for a controlled retaliation against Israel, Reuters reported on Aug. 6, citing two senior Iranian officials. Russia's National Security Council Secretary and former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu visited Tehran on Aug. 5 as the country allegedly prepares for a military response to Israel for the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh on Iranian soil on July 31. Shoigu reportedly delivered Putin's message personally, emphasizing that civilian targets should be avoided. The New York Times (NYT) reported on Aug. 5 that Iran had requested modern air defense systems from Russia amid the heightened tensions. The two sources told Reuters that Iran has also asked for Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets. Iranian state television showed Shoigu and the commander of the Iranian Armed Forces, Brigadier General Mohammad Bagheri greeting each other, meeting face-to-face, and then participating in a larger meeting at the negotiating table with members of the Russian delegation and Iranian military officials. "We are ready for full cooperation with Iran on regional issues," Shoigu reportedly said. Bagheri also told Shoigu that the relationship between their nations was "deep, long-term, and strategic" and would only expand under Iran's new government, according to Iranian state media. Iran is one of Russia's closest allies on the international stage. The two countries have deepened their military and political cooperation since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Notably, Iran has provided Russia with thousands of Shahed kamikaze drones since the start of the all-out war. In February, Reuters also reported that Tehran sent "a large number of powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missiles" to aid Moscow's invasion. At the same time, Russia has maintained its historic ties with Israel, although the relationship has frayed since the Hamas attack in October 2023. Read also: Opinion: The global implications of Irans election Sign up for our newsletter WTF is wrong with Russia? Sign up Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Santa Rosa County Economic Director Shannon Ogletree has shared the secret weapon he deployed to concoct what may have be his most creative job creation idea yet. Tequila. He said he was sipping on the devil's brew when the idea came to him of purchasing a parcel of land, making it marketable to businesses looking to locate in the county and leasing it. Now, with the help of the Triumph Gulf Coast Board of Directors, and the go-ahead from the County Commission, the concept is nearing reality. And, as Ogletree told the governing board Monday, the Triumph Board liked the idea so much "they're looking at this as maybe something other counties may follow." At its Aug. 22 meeting, the Triumph Board is slated to vote to finalize a $7 million contract by which it will provide Santa Rosa County the wherewithal to spend $4.3 million to purchase 40 acres on Garcon Point Road to build a warehouse that it will lease to a private company. The additional funding will go toward installing infrastructure on the site. The building will be constructed next to a Stuckey's establishment close to Interstate 10. Ogletree told commissioners the intent of the development deal was to "bring in more jobs and more opportunities. A conservative estimate put the number of jobs that could be created by a potential new business that would fit that size location at 175. The construction-ready land, suitable to build a warehouse of 400,000 square feet, will be leased to the highest bidder, and Ogletree believes the property can be rented for between $400,000 and $500,000 annually. The lease payments will be put back into economic development to be used for purposes such as matching funds for grants or as incentives for new businesses looking for a place to settle. "This opens up more possibilities of what we can do to be more competitive with other states," he said. Ogletree said he also believes the leased land, with a large business on it, will generate up to another half-million dollars in ad valorem taxes. Ogletree said he is preparing a request for qualifications to businesses interested in making the land purchase. The RFQ will go out after Triumph finalizes the grant and the county signs off on it. Triumph Gulf Coast is a nonprofit created by Florida to distribute $1.5 billion in BP oil spill settlement funds to economic development projects in the eight Northwest Florida counties adversely impacted by the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill disaster. As of January the agency had received 134 applications totaling over $1,271,900,000 in requests. Story continues Ogletree said he believes the concept for the land lease project is unique to Florida and, as far as he knew, anywhere else. County Commissioner Kerry Smith, into whose district the new building will be constructed, called the idea "a great model for future planning." When Ogletree conceived the idea for the land purchase and lease project he called the proposal project Cruise Control. He has been working on it with former state Rep. Jayer Williamson. Williamson is employed with a couple other former state legislators by a company called Oak Strategies, a lobbying and consulting firm. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Santa Rosa County gives go-ahead to warehouse lease project Jacob Chansley became one of the most known characters from the Jan 6 riots on the Capitol - WIN MCNAMEE/GETTY IMAGES The QAnon shaman who became the face of the assault on the US Capitol will have his horned fur headdress and spear returned to him, a judge has said. Jacob Chansley, 36, was bare-chested and covered in red, white and blue face paint when he and other rioters broke into the Capitol on Jan 6 2021 as lawmakers were certifying Joe Bidens victory over Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election. Chansley, also known as Jake Angeli, was part of a mob of Trump supporters attempting to stop the certification of the 2020 election results. He was one of the first 30 people to make it inside the Capitol building and was seen leading chants on the floor of the Senate before sitting in the chair that was used by Mike Pence, then-vice president, to preside over proceedings there. Jacob Chansley, centre, stormed the Senate before sitting in Mike Pence's chair - MANUEL BALCE CENETA/AP He was described by prosecutors as the most prominent symbol of a violent insurrection and was sentenced to 41 months in prison after pleading guilty to a single felony charge of obstructing an official proceeding. In May last year, he received an early release and has since filed a lawsuit in Washington, asking a judge for the return of his property seized by the authorities following his arrest. Last month, the Department of Justice said it wanted to keep hold of the property because Chansley has challenged his conviction and sentence since his release, but the judge allowed the return of the items. Royce Lamberth, the district judge, said: Since the government has not established that it still needs these items as evidence and has not sought their forfeiture, the Court will grant Mr Chansleys motion. Jacob Chansley was sentenced to 41 months in prison for obstructing an official proceeding - JAMES BREEDEN FOR THE TELEGRAPH The items to be returned include Chansleys horned coyote-tail headdress and a six-foot pole with a metal spearhead fixed to the top. Before the Jan 6 riot, Chansley, a promoter of QAnon conspiracy theories, had travelled the Capitol appearing at rallies in support of Trump, who is running for re-election. Chansley told The Telegraph he had been going to the Arizona Capitol dressed in the headdress for a number of years before the 2021 riot. In the Dine Navajo tradition, the coyote is viewed as the trickster or the deceiver, so Im wearing the trickster skin. You cant fool me, he said. He claimed he had a personal relationship with God who had inspired him to act, and said he had travelled to the Capitol for spiritual reasons. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Health care providers say there is uncertainty about what qualifies as a medical emergency that would allow an abortion under Iowa's new law. (Photo via Getty Images) Enforcement has begun for Iowas ban on most abortions as early as six weeks of pregnancy, but medical professionals say there is still uncertainty about what qualifies as a medical emergency exemption under the law. Iowas abortion law went into effect July 29 after years of court battles blocking the so-called fetal heartbeat law from enforcement. The measure, passed in a special session in 2023, makes most abortions illegal after cardiac activity can be detected in an embryo, which can occur as early as six weeks of gestation. There are some exceptions outlined in the law, allowing abortions in cases of rape, incest or to save the life of the pregnant person. There are designated timelines for exceptions in cases of rape and incest if reported to law enforcement, a public health agency or doctor. However, there is less guidance about what qualifies an abortion as legal. The exception stipulates that an attending physician certifies that the fetus has a fetal abnormality that in the physicians reasonable medical judgment is incompatible with life or that an abortion is necessary due to a medical emergency. Dr. Emily Boevers, an obstetrician-gynecologist practicing in Waverly, said she and most other OB-GYNs she knows are interpreting the law as meaning that for an abortion to be performed, the pregnancy must be actively putting the mothers life at risk, or that the continuation of the pregnancy could cause very serious medical complications. Complications might include requiring a hysterectomy or loss of an organ, or causing liver failure or another unrecoverable organ function. Boevers said she was in a unique position as the only practicing OB-GYN at her hospital. However, at many practices, she said, medical professionals would come together to make a decision about how to ensure they are practicing within compliance of the law but that these conversations are happening internally by practitioners at health care institutions. This is not a decision that any one person wants to make in a vacuum, Boever said. But the reality is, is that theres no more guidance than that. Its, its truly do you think the life or health of the mother is at risk? Do you think this patient might have disease that is so severe that she might die or need a hysterectomy? Thats how Im thinking of it. The Iowa Board of Medicine set rules for the abortion law in February, months before the Iowa Supreme Court ordered the injunction to be lifted. Reproductive health care advocates, including those affiliated with Planned Parenthood, have said the rules do not clarify how medical providers should evaluate when a fetal abnormality or medical emergency poses a large enough threat to constitute an abortion. The rules state that attending physicians must certify that the diagnosis of a fetal abnormality and the doctors decision to perform an abortion must be reached in good faith following a bona fide effort, consistent with standard medical practice and reasonable medical judgment, to determine the health of the fetus. Abortion exceptions challenged in other states The language for these exceptions and lack of specific guidance have been a point of contention in other states with restrictive abortion bans. In Texas, the state Supreme Court rejected a challenge to the law banning abortions that asked for clarification from the state on when people facing serious medical complications caused by pregnancies can receive an abortion. The Center for Reproductive Rights, the legal advocacy organization that filed the Texas lawsuit on behalf of women who said their lives were endangered by the state abortion law as well as two doctors, has also made challenges calling for more information on medical exceptions to abortion bans in Tennessee and Idaho. Sally Frank, a law professor at Drake University, said in an interview that Iowa could see similar challenges to its six-week abortion ban in the future by people whose lives were endangered because of a lack of clarity on when an abortion qualifies as legal under the exception. Medical professionals may be less likely to provide an abortion, even when the pregnancy could cause a risk to the persons life or health, because of the law, she said, as providers could face disciplinary action like losing their medical license for violating the ban. Peter Im, staff attorney at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, said in July that the organization is considering a challenge to the Iowa Board of Medicine rules on the law. However, there has not yet been action on this potential challenge. Boevers said OB-GYNs are already constantly evaluating the health of the mother and of the pregnancy while caring for patients, but that the lack of guidance could hamper health care providers ability to effectively address potentially fatal pregnancy complications. To put physicians in a position where they have to be doing this constant evaluation with a patient who is potentially, you know, severely ill, and having to make these decisions around if theyre ill enough to qualify for a life-saving exception or not it adds an extra layer of stress to that evaluation, she said. Were always watching for our patients to try to try to deter any threats to life. We are always watching, trying to be prepared for what might go wrong next, but to put the threat of action from the Board of Medicine or some sort of scrutiny from the government or the Attorney General on that, into that assessment and evaluation, is a tremendous burden on the health care system. Railway manufacturer announces new factory to support US high-speed train projects: 'We want to be in this region for as long as possible' As high-speed rail projects are finally getting off the ground in the United States, one German company is stepping in to lend its expertise, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported. Railway manufacturer PCM Railone AG is building a $20 million facility in North Las Vegas to help supply material for Brightline West, a privately owned high-speed rail project that will connect Vegas to Southern California at speeds of nearly 200 mph. PCM Railone AG will produce and ship concrete ties, which weigh about 600 pounds each, for the project. The company chose its location specifically to cater to Brightline West. "Logistically, transporting 600 pounds of concrete blocks from one corner to another corner of the U.S. makes no sense. We are setting up in North Las Vegas since we will be right where the construction of [Brightline West] is going to start," said Saurav Mittal, CEO of North America operations. The company hopes to continue supplying other West Coast high-speed rail projects into the future. "We want to be in this region for as long as possible," Mittal added. Studies have shown that high-speed rail is the most planet-friendly form of long distance travel, creating far fewer planet-overheating emissions per passenger than cars or planes. However, as the U.S. government has lagged far behind other countries most notably, China in terms of beginning construction on a high-speed network, the privately owned Brightline has stepped into the void. Brightline's first line debuted in Florida six years ago, to rave reviews from customers. The other most notable high-speed rail project in the U.S. is the California High-Speed Rail system, also still under construction. Officials have also proposed high-speed rail networks in Texas and the Pacific Northwest, though those have yet to gain approval. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. A repurposed school bus filled with donated food sits parked outside of the Kroger at University Parkway for RIFA's "Pack the Bus" food drive event on August 3, 2024 in Jackson, Tenn. Every Jackson-Madison County School System student receives free and reduced lunch Monday through Friday, but what happens on weekends? Hosting its 13th annual "Pack the Bus" food drive, the Regional Inter-Faith Association (RIFA) aims to bridge the gap in food insecurity for children in the community. The donations, monetary or food items, directly fund RIFA's most costly program, the Snack Backpacks. Every backpack is equipped with six, easy-to-prepare and kid-friendly meals, enough to last through the weekend. School counselors and staff are responsible for identifying the students most vulnerable to food insecurity and recommending them to RIFA. Once volunteers pack the backpacks on Tuesday, they are delivered to schools on Thursday to be given out on Friday. More: Annual Pack the Bus food drive returns Saturday, amid rising food insecurity in children More: Bowls for the Hungry awards RIFA check from charity fundraiser, curbing food insecurity Supplying snack backpacks to every elementary school in Jackson, more than 1,300 are distributed weekly. The most recent data from the Tennessee Commission on Youth and Children reveals that Madison County ranks 91 out of 98 counties for overall childhood well-being, with 20% of children living in poverty. Compared to the state average of 17.9%, approximately 26% of children in Madison County are considered "food insecure" and have limited to access enough food. A repurposed school bus sits parked outside of the Kroger at University Parkway for RIFA's "Pack the Bus" food drive event on August 3, 2024 in Jackson, Tenn. Raising food and funds Saturday's collection yielded 16,751 pounds of food and $5,010 in monetary donations. However, this is merely enough for the program to last a few weeks. "It is the biggest and most expensive thing that we do," RIFA Executive Director Lisa Tillman said. "We're just trying to do our best to stand in the gap before they get back to school on Monday where they'll get free breakfast and lunch again. It would be great if we could make sure every single hungry child was fed but the need is just so great." One day per year and in preparation for the start of the school year, RIFA parks a school bus outside various Sam's Club, Walmart, and Kroger locations in Jackson. On August 3, community members dropped their donations off across five locations throughout the city from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Single-serve items like macaroni and cheese, pop-tarts, ramen noodles, microwave popcorn, apple sauce, and oatmeal are among what's included in each backpack. Donated food for RIFA's annual "Pack the Bus" food drive event on August 3, 2024 in Jackson, Tenn. Since its conception 19 years ago, the cost of food has increased alongside the number of children who receive snack backpacks. Tillman says the origin story started with one school and 25 kids before evolving into what it is today; serving all 14 elementary schools in Jackson-Madison County. RIFA accepts monetary donations at the time of the food drive as well, breaking donations down by the extent of impact they would have. $5.25 will feed one child for one weekend $195 will feed one child for the school year $975 will feed five children for the school year $1,950 will feed 10 children for the school year In the last few years alone, the number of children who are provided with weekly snack backpacks has grown from 800 to 1,4000, making it more challenging for RIFA to meet the demand. Almost exclusively relying on the support of the community to maintain the program, donations to fund snack backpacks are essential. Accepting donations of items, food, time, or money, RIFA seeks to continue its grassroots legacy with the support of the community. "We don't get big, federal grants for this. This program is supported by the local community who are here shopping at Kroger or Walmart and by individuals who make contributions and then we get some small community grants, but we don't get any federal dollars for this," Tillman said. Sarah Best is a reporter for The Jackson Sun. To support local journalism, subscribe to the Daily Briefing here This article originally appeared on Jackson Sun: RIFA collects most pounds of food ever at Pack the Bus event. Rally on the River kicks off school year for USD 259 WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) Wichita Public Schools staff celebrated the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year on Tuesday. The WPS staff got together at Riverfront Stadium for Rally on the River. As the third-largest employer in Sedgwick County, it was a chance for everyone to get excited about supporting kids for the school year. My idea was really to make the big feel small, you know, WPS Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld said. Were the third largest employer in Sedgwick County, and I thought what would it feel like if we brought everybody together just to get them excited about supporting our kids for the school year. Sheriff releases new information WPD officer-involved shooting Those in attendance said every single employees main goal is to see kids succeed. We had our food service workers, our transportation service staff, everybody, Bielefeld said. Really, it takes everybody to help our kids succeed, and so we want everyone to feel included and involved. Bielefeld wanted to host Rally on the River last year, but he didnt have enough time to get it organized after taking over as superintendent. WPS estimated over 8,000 staff members attended Rally on the River. The first day of school for USD 259 is Wednesday, Aug. 14. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. Rancho Mirages ban on short-term vacation rentals will remain in place after a multiyear legal battle between the city and a group of vacation rental owners, who say they dropped their lawsuits challenging the ban due to escalating costs. The end of the litigation comes nearly three years after the council agreed in October 2021 to ban all short-term rentals, including within homeowners associations, and to phase out existing permits. The citywide ban on rental stays of less than 28 days has been in place for the last couple years, after a Riverside County judge allowed it to take effect while the litigation was ongoing. Both sides said they spent more than $1 million on the lawsuits. The City of Rancho Mirage properly defended its right to manage land use and protect the integrity of its residential neighborhoods with the adoption of the ordinance to ban Short-Term Rentals, the city attorneys office, which is led by Colin Kirkpatrick, said in an emailed statement. Both (legal) matters are now concluded, and the Citys current STR ordinance remains in place and enforceable." Rich Gomez, right, watches his son, daughter and niece swim at a short-term rental home in Rancho Mirage in 2020, before the city's total ban on such rentals. Complicated legal history The cases have a complicated procedural history, as Riverside County Superior Court Judge Chad Firetag said in a ruling dismissing one of the cases. The plaintiff group, Vacation Rental Owners and Neighbors of Rancho Mirage and a few affiliated individuals, initially challenged an ordinance approved by the council in late 2020 that banned short-term rentals citywide except in HOAs. Their suit filed in early 2021 contended the city's new law was unconstitutional and would result in an immediate loss of income for homeowners who rely on the rentals, calling the ban "a complete about-face" from previous statements by city officials. They also alleged the city severely overstated the number of rental complaints cited in staff reports. In July 2021, Riverside County Superior Court Judge Russell Moore ruled the city had to process the plaintiffs applications for short-term rental permits under its prior rules while the lawsuit continued through the courts. But the city didnt immediately follow suit. Steve Quintanilla, the city attorney at the time, determined the city couldnt comply with the order while still following city and state law and preserving the citys rights on appeal. He instead directed staff to disobey the order while an appeal was pending, according to the judge's ruling. As a result, in October 2021, Moore declared the city in contempt of court and threatened to issue $1,000 fines each day that it further disobeyed the order, prompting the city to immediately begin processing permits for the effected plaintiffs. The judge later ruled the city had to pay the plaintiffs roughly $50,000 in attorneys fees from the contempt proceedings. One of the plaintiffs alleged a similar issue with obtaining a city permit in early 2022. The judge dismissed that complaint with a warning that if his order went ignored again, he would consider sanctions against Rancho Mirage, including jail time for the citys attorney. Total ban on short-term rentals passed in 2021 The first case was proceeding as the city considered further limits on short-term rentals, with the council unanimously banning them altogether in October 2021. Proponents of the ban cited increased rental complaints related to noise, parking and trash, while short-term rental supporters said the city had not provided sufficient data to prove the issues were insurmountable. At the time of the bans approval, the city estimated roughly $740,000 in annual transient occupancy tax revenue from its short-term rentals. The passage of the new ordinance prompted the plaintiffs to file a new lawsuit contesting the citywide ban. In July 2022, Riverside County Judge Manuel Bustamante denied their request to temporary suspend the ban while the lawsuit was resolved. Bustamante wrote that it was unreasonable for property owners to believe that (the) citys laws will not change, noting that short-term rental bans in California have been upheld by the courts over the last 30 years. The pair of lawsuits continued in 2023, with some changes to the presiding judges and a few appellate rulings that largely upheld the trial courts decisions. Plaintiffs cite cost burden in dropping case Citing the rising costs to continue the lawsuits, the VRON group dropped their cases and requested dismissal of the lawsuits in April, with Firetag then ruling in the citys favor on the original case. The saying, You can't fight city hall, there's a reason for that saying, because unless you have unlimited funds, which we did not, we had to end the lawsuit because we couldn't afford to pay it, Louisa Davis, a plaintiff and member of the VRON-RM group, said in an interview. Louisa Davis, who manages rental homes, was one of the leaders in the fight to preserve short-term rentals in Rancho Mirage. Davis said the costs became particularly tough after the 2022 ruling that kept them from operating short-term rentals during the proceedings. She estimated her group spent roughly $1.2 million on its lawsuits, with a large share in efforts to get the city to issue rental permits to the plaintiffs. In a lawsuit, if you're not totally happy with the outcome, and neither is the other side, it was probably a fair outcome, Davis said. But we didn't even get a chance, because we used all of our funds up trying to get the city to adhere to what the court had ordered them to do. Davis, who manages rentals, said she knew several people who have sold their Rancho Mirage houses because they couldnt afford to keep them without supplementary rental income. The city spent $1.1 million on the legal battle, city spokesperson Gabe Codding told The Desert Sun. He noted the complaints filed against the city were both more than 100 pages long, while the injunctive relief sought by the rental owner group "adds to the costs of what otherwise should have been routine writ of mandamus cases." "Plaintiff repeatedly sought contempt against the City, which it repeatedly had to defend against," Codding said, noting the court denied two of the three contempt charges. Mayor Steve Downs largely cheered the litigations conclusion. In a July council meeting, Downs noted he and his two colleagues elected in 2022, Lynn Mallotto and Meg Marker, backed the citys rental ban, while the three losing candidates including Davis wanted to get rid of it. That was a victory not just for the three of us, but for this city, Downs said. There will be no short-term rentals in the residential neighborhoods of this city during the term of office of myself and I believe of any other councilmember who sits on this dais today. From left, Steve Downs, Meg Marker and Lynn Mallotto are sworn in to the Rancho Mirage City Council during a ceremony at city hall, Dec. 8, 2022. Downs later said in an emailed statement that the city has fared just fine since the ban took effect, adding he considers the ordinance and the recent court ruling dismissing the lawsuits to be a success. Davis, who finished a close fourth in the race for the three open seats in 2022, is not seeking a council spot in this years election. But she remained frustrated with the process, saying her group wouldve been open to being grandfathered in with permits for a few years to figure out what to do with their properties. They don't want any input from residents, Davis said. In my experience, we were shut out. Tom Coulter covers the cities of Palm Desert, La Quinta, Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells. Reach him at thomas.coulter@desertsun.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Rancho Mirage short-term rental ban will stay in place Rapper T.I. arrested at Atlanta airport after being mistaken for someone else WSBTV has reported that Atlanta rapper T.I., whose real name is Clifford Harris, was mistakenly arrested at Atlantas airport Sunday night. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< According to Channel 2s Tom Jones, the Clayton County sheriff said a warrant had been taken out for a man with the same name in Baltimore. That Clifford Harris was accused of beating a woman. T.I. said he was in Los Angles and arrived in Baltimore after the alleged incident took place, WSB reported. The warrant also described the suspect as significantly larger than T.I. The rapper told authorities he was not the suspect they were looking for but a border patrol agent arrested him anyway. T.I. was released from the Clayton County jail two hours after being taken into custody. WSB reported that a metro Atlanta judge dismissed the case. WSBTV.com contributed this story. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. RCSS issues out notice of intention to increase 2024 property taxes RICHMOND COUNTY, Ga. (WJBF) The Richmond County Board of Education has announced its intention to increase the 2024 property taxes. Administrators state that the intention to increase the property tax will levy this year by 13.84% over the rollback millage rate. ALSO ON WJBF: CSRA school, business closings due to severe weather threat Richmond County School System officials say they are inviting residents to three public hearings, which will be held at the central office located at 864 Broad Street in Augusta, GA. The hearings will be: Tuesday August 20th at 12 P.M. Tuesday, August 20th, immediately following the 6 P.M. regular board meeting Tuesday, August 27th at 5:30 P.M. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF. WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to be her running mate on Tuesday, choosing a liberal policy champion and a plain speaker from the American heartland to help win over rural, white voters. Here are some reactions to her pick: DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN: "Kamala Harris has made a great decision in choosing Governor Tim Walz to be her running mate ... he's been a strong, principled and effective leader. The Harris-Walz ticket will be a powerful voice for working people and America's great middle class. They will be the strongest defenders of our personal freedoms and our democracy. And they will ensure that America continues to lead the world and play its role as the indispensable nation." REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEE DONALD TRUMP: "TIM WALZ WOULD BE THE WORST VP IN HISTORY! Even worse than Dangerously Liberal and Crooked Kamala Harris - HE'S THAT BAD. He'll unleash HELL ON EARTH and open our borders to the worst criminals imaginable. He'll rubber stamp Kamala's GREEN NEW SCAM and light TRILLIONS of dollars on fire." REPUBLICAN VICE PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEE J.D. VANCE: "The biggest problem with the Tim Walz pick, it's not Tim Walz himself. It's what it says about Kamala Harris, that when given the opportunity she will bend the knee to the most radical elements of her party." DEMOCRATIC PENNSYLVANIA GOVERNOR JOSH SHAPIRO, A VP FINALIST: "Over the next 90 days, I look forward to traveling all across the Commonwealth to unite Pennsylvanians behind my friends Kamala Harris and Tim Walz and defeat Donald Trump." HILLARY CLINTON, 2016 DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEE: "I'm thrilled to see Tim Walz join the Democratic ticket. From providing free meals for schoolkids to implementing paid family leave in Minnesota, he's about doing good in all the ways you can. He'll be an incredible partner to our first woman president. Let's go win this." REPUBLICAN U.S. SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: "If you had any doubt that Kamala Harris is deeply liberal, look no further than the fact that her VP pick was endorsed by Bernie Sanders. Great day for the Left. Bad day for middle America." FORMER DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA AND FORMER FIRST LADY MICHELLE OBAMA: "Kamala Harris has chosen an ideal partner and made it clear exactly what she stands for. Governor Walz doesnt just have the experience to be vice president, he has the values and the integrity to make us proud." DEMOCRATIC U.S. REPRESENTATIVE MARK POCAN OF WISCONSIN: "Ive know Tim for years, and hes as real as it gets." DEMOCRATIC U.S. REPRESENTATIVE ALEXANDRIA OCASIO-CORTEZ: Vice President Harris made an excellent decision in Gov. Walz as her running mate. .. Together, they will govern effectively, inclusively, and boldly for the American people." INDEPENDENT U.S. SENATOR JOE MANCHIN: "All of the candidates were strong and any one of them would have been a great pick, but I can think of no one better than Governor Walz to help bring our country closer together and bring balance back to the Democratic Party." ASIF MAHMOOD, DEMOCRATIC DONOR AND DELEGATE: "He's somebody that everybody can relate to. People feel good about him." REID HOFFMAN, DEMOCRATIC DONOR AND FOUNDER OF LINKEDIN: "Walz fostered a pro-business climate, attracting substantial investment and positioning the state as a top contender for business development. I'm confident that as VP, he'll continue to protect Americas innovation power and fuel economic growth." DMITRI MEHLHORN, DEMOCRATIC DONOR ADVISER: Hes charismatic and reassuring and will be particularly appealing to the voters who previously trusted Biden. KAROLINE LEAVITT, TRUMP CAMPAIGN PRESS SECRETARY: "Just like Kamala Harris, Tim Walz is a dangerously liberal extremist." REPUBLICAN GOVERNORS ASSOCIATION: "While Walz will try to sell himself as a relatable moderate, his record shows that he consistently backs the most liberal policies that national Democrats have to offer and will be in lockstep with the Democrat agenda that has already failed Americans." UNITED AUTO WORKERS PRESIDENT SHAWN FAIN: "Tim Walz has been a great governor and is going to make a great Vice President. Hes stood with the working class every step of the way, and has walked the walk, including on a UAW picket line last fall." REPUBLICAN FLORIDA GOVERNOR RON DESANTIS: "Harris-Walz: most left-wing ticket in American history. Minnesota was ground zero for the BLM riots of 2020. Harris egged it on and Walz sat by and let Minneapolis burn." U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES REPUBLICAN LEADER STEVE SCALISE: "Kamala Harris just made the most liberal ticket in history even more liberal. Tim Walz is a radical who let rioters burn Minneapolis to the ground in 2020 the same rioters Kamala Harris raised money to bail out. They're a dangerous duo that'll let crime destroy our communities." AFL-CIO PRESIDENT LIZ SHULER: "Gov. Walz isnt only an ally to the labor movement, but also our union brother with a deep commitment to a pro-worker agenda. ... The labor movement stands united behind the HarrisWalz ticket." AMY WALTER AND JESSICA TAYLOR, ANALYSTS FOR NONPARTISAN COOK POLITICAL REPORT: "Harris has fulfilled the wishes of the more progressive wing of the party ... it looks as if the Harris campaign decided that it was not worth risking an intra-party fight with their VP choice. "Republicans we talked to were more worried about the impact Shapiro would have on the contest and saw him as the stronger opponent. "Bottom line: Walzs rural Midwestern background helps give the ticket some 'Blue Wall' credibility and sensibility without upsetting the progressive wing of the party." AMERICAN FEDERATION OF TEACHERS PRESIDENT RANDI WEINGARTEN: "Gov. Walz is a proud educator who drew on his experience in the classroom to show Minnesotans what a pro-education, pro-labor administration can look like." JOINT STATEMENT FROM PRO-PALESTINIAN GROUPS: "Vice President Kamala Harris has a taken a step in the right direction but there is more work to do ... The Biden administration's unconditional support for Israel's genocide in Gaza has tarnished Democrats longstanding support from Palestinian, Arab, Muslim, and progressive communities, and it will take real change in policy to repair that damage." MANISH BAPNA, PRESIDENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP NRDC ACTION FUND: Tim Walz has made Minnesota a national climate leader. ... He brings sound judgment and a solid commitment to protecting the environment and public health in a way that advances equity." UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA POLITICAL SCIENCE PROFESSOR LARRY SABATO: "Yes, Gov. Josh Shapiro could have brought a bigger payoff (19 Electoral Votes) but Gov. Tim Walz fills the age-old bill for VP nominees: First, do no harm." (Compiled by Andy Sullivan; editing by Jonathan Oatis and Alistair Bell) Pointing out that someone else is wrong is a part of life. And journalists need to do this all the time their job includes helping sort whats true from whats not. But what if people just dont like hearing corrections? Our new research, published in the journal Communication Research, suggests thats the case. In two studies, we found that people generally trust journalists when they confirm claims to be true but are more distrusting when journalists correct false claims. Some linguistics and social science theories suggest that people intuitively understand social expectations not to be negative. Being disagreeable, like when pointing out someone elses lie or error, carries with it a risk of backlash. We reasoned that it follows that corrections are held to a different, more critical standard than confirmations. Attempts to debunk can trigger doubts about journalists honesty and motives. In other words, if youre providing a correction, youre being a bit of a spoilsport, and that could negatively affect how you are viewed. How we did our work Using real articles, we investigated how people feel about journalists who provide fact checks. In our first study, participants read a detailed fact check that either corrected or confirmed some claim related to politics or economics. For instance, one focused on the statement, Congressional salaries have gone up 231% in the past 30 years, which is false. We then asked participants about how they were evaluating the fact check and the journalist who wrote it. Although people were fairly trusting of the journalists in general, more people expressed suspicions toward journalists providing corrections than those providing confirmations. People were less likely to be skeptical of confirmatory fact checks than they were of debunking articles, with the percentage of respondents expressing strong distrust doubling from about 10% to about 22%. People also said they needed more information to know whether journalists debunking statements were telling the truth, compared with their assessment of journalists who were confirming claims. In a second study, we presented marketing claims that ultimately proved to be true or false. For example, some participants read an article about a brand that said its cooking hacks would save time, but they didnt actually work. Others read an article about a brand providing cooking hacks that turned about to be genuine. Again, across several types of products, people thought they needed more evidence in order to believe articles pointing out falsehoods, and they reported distrusting correcting journalists more. Human nature seems to make people uncomfortable when errors, mistruths and lies are called out. Giulio Fornasar/iStock via Getty Images Plus Why it matters Correcting misinformation is notoriously difficult, as researchers and journalists have found out. The United States is also experiencing a decadeslong decline of trust in journalism. Fact-checking tries to help combat misinformation and disinformation, but our research suggests that there are limits to how much it helps. Providing a debunking might make journalists seem like theyre just being negative. Our second study also explains a slice of pop culture: the backlash on someone who reveals the misdeeds of another. For example, if you read an article pointing out that a band lied about their origin story, you might notice it seems to create a sub-controversy in the comments of people angry that anyone was called out at all, even correctly. This scenario is exactly what wed expect if corrections are automatically scrutinized and distrusted by some people. Whats next Future work can explore how journalists can be transparent without undermining trust. Its reasonable to assume that people will trust a journalist more if they explain how they came to a particular conclusion. However, according to our results, thats not quite the case. Rather, trust is contingent on what the conclusion is. People in our studies were quite trusting of journalists when they provided confirmations. And, certainly, people are sometimes fine with corrections, as when outlandish misinformation they already disbelieve is debunked. The challenge for journalists may be figuring out how to provide debunkings without seeming like a debunker. The Research Brief is a short take on interesting academic work. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Randy Stein, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona and Caroline Meyersohn, California State University, Long Beach Read more: Randy Stein receives funding from Cal Poly Pomona Learn Through Discovery Projects Hatchery program. Caroline Meyersohn received funding from Cal Poly Pomona Learn Through Discovery Projects Hatchery program. As global markets grapple with economic uncertainties, the German DAX index has faced significant declines, reflecting broader concerns about growth and inflation within the Eurozone. Despite these challenges, dividend stocks remain a compelling option for investors seeking steady income streams amid market volatility. In this context, selecting robust dividend stocks becomes crucial. Companies with strong fundamentals and reliable payout histories can provide stability and potential returns in uncertain times. Top 10 Dividend Stocks In Germany Name Dividend Yield Dividend Rating Allianz (XTRA:ALV) 5.62% Deutsche Post (XTRA:DHL) 5.04% OVB Holding (XTRA:O4B) 4.79% Mercedes-Benz Group (XTRA:MBG) 9.31% INDUS Holding (XTRA:INH) 5.94% MLP (XTRA:MLP) 5.58% SAF-Holland (XTRA:SFQ) 4.88% Deutsche Telekom (XTRA:DTE) 3.24% Uzin Utz (XTRA:UZU) 3.42% FRoSTA (DB:NLM) 3.42% Click here to see the full list of 31 stocks from our Top German Dividend Stocks screener. Below we spotlight a couple of our favorites from our exclusive screener. Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: Overview: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft is a technology company specializing in automation and digitalization across various regions globally, with a market cap of approximately 121.16 billion. Operations: Siemens generates revenue from several segments: Portfolio Companies (3.24 billion), Siemens Financial Services (385 million), Mobility (10.96 billion), Digital Industries (20.99 billion), Siemens Healthineers (21.87 billion), and Smart Infrastructure (20.43 billion). Dividend Yield: 3% Siemens offers a reliable dividend yield of 3.03%, though it is lower than the top 25% of German dividend payers. The company's dividends have been stable and growing over the past decade, with a payout ratio of 51.5% covered by earnings and cash flows (36.8%). Recent strategic moves include selling its motors business for 3 billion and forming alliances to expand in sustainable energy storage, potentially enhancing future revenue streams. XTRA:SIE Dividend History as at Aug 2024 Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: Overview: Logwin AG offers logistics and transport solutions across Germany, Austria, other European countries, Asia/Pacific, and internationally with a market cap of 760.11 million. Operations: Logwin AG's revenue is primarily derived from its Solutions segment (275.78 million) and Air + Ocean segment (954.25 million). Story continues Dividend Yield: 5.3% Logwin AG has shown consistent dividend payments over the past 6 years, with a payout ratio of 57% covered by earnings and 59.4% by cash flows. However, recent earnings reports indicate a decline in sales to 643.5 million and net income to 31.86 million for H1 2024, compared to the previous year. Despite this, Logwin's dividend yield remains attractive within the top quartile of German dividend payers at 5.3%. XTRA:TGHN Dividend History as at Aug 2024 Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: Overview: Uzin Utz SE develops, manufactures, and sells construction chemical system products in Germany, the United States, Netherlands, and internationally with a market cap of 236.07 million. Operations: Uzin Utz SE's revenue segments include 73.33 million from the USA, 83.83 million from Western Europe, 36.31 million from Netherlands - Wholesale, 25.98 million from Southern/Eastern Europe, 210.21 million from Germany - Laying Systems, 82.87 million from Netherlands - Laying Systems, 32.53 million from Germany - Machinery and Tools, and 35.16 million from Germany - Surface Care and Refinement. Dividend Yield: 3.4% Uzin Utz offers a reliable dividend, consistently growing over the past decade with minimal volatility. Its current yield of 3.42% is lower than the top 25% of German dividend payers but remains attractive due to its stability. The payout ratio of 35.7% and cash payout ratio of 23.9% indicate strong coverage by earnings and cash flows, ensuring sustainability. Additionally, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.5x suggests good value compared to the broader market. XTRA:UZU Dividend History as at Aug 2024 Next Steps Get an in-depth perspective on all 31 Top German Dividend Stocks by using our screener here. Are these companies part of your investment strategy? Use Simply Wall St to consolidate your holdings into a portfolio and gain insights with our comprehensive analysis tools. Streamline your investment strategy with Simply Wall St's app for free and benefit from extensive research on stocks across all corners of the world. Ready To Venture Into Other Investment Styles? This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include XTRA:SIE XTRA:TGHN and XTRA:UZU. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com Emigrant Peak in the Custer-Gallatin National Forest (Photo by Jacob Frank | National Park Service | Flickr). Its no secret that Montana is growing rapidly because people are drawn to what few other places have wild country, incredible recreation access, and friendly communities. Our backyard mountains the Madison and Gallatin ranges feel the pressures of this growth as more people explore deeper into the backcountry on foot, horse, or bike. More importantly, these mountains provide clean drinking water, important habitat for species from grizzly bears to elk, fresh air, adventure, and solace surrounded by wild nature. Thats why we joined with other members of the Gallatin Forest Partnership to unveil proposed legislation The Greater Yellowstone Conservation and Recreation Act to permanently protect our backyard mountains so they stay wild and healthy as they are today. The Greater Yellowstone Conservation and Recreation Act is a realistic solution to permanently protect 250,000 acres of public land in the Madison and Gallatin ranges that will safeguard Bozemans drinking water and the headwaters of the Gallatin and Yellowstone rivers, conserve wildlife habitat and migration routes, stop further development, and provide balanced access to outdoor recreation. Since 2016, a coalition of recreationists, business owners, sportsmen, landowners, and conservationists have been advocating for permanent conservation for these ranges. Nearly 2,000 citizens, business owners, and recreation advocates have endorsed the Gallatin Forest Partnership proposal, including the Gallatin and Madison County Commissions and the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce. While current Forest Service management and the existing Wilderness Study Area give these mountains some protection, they are not permanent. Now is the time to make common-sense choices to ensure our kids and grandkids can enjoy the Montana way of life in the future. Two-hundred folks turned out for three community events to celebrate or ask questions about the proposed legislation. Members of the Gallatin Forest Partnership were stationed throughout the event wearing nametags that said, Ask me a question, inviting our friends and neighbors to chat one on one. Thank you all for joining us at these events and to those who added your voices of support. Many locals have been working to protect the Gallatin and Madison ranges for decades to ensure wildlife have room to roam and people have a place to escape the busyness of day-to-day life. And many care passionately about our wild backyard, whether they access the area by foot, horse, mountain bike, ski or snowmobile. In fact, nonpartisan research shows that nine in 10 Montanans believe its important to permanently protect this corner of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. We believe the Greater Yellowstone Conservation and Recreation Act strikes a realistic balance protecting the diverse recreational uses, wildlife habitat, wilderness, and solitude that come with an undeveloped natural landscape. The majority of the Hyalite-Porcupine-Buffalo Horn Wilderness Study Area will become permanent wilderness to better protect our beloved wildlife, open space, and drinking water. This wilderness study area was never meant to last forever, and the act is a solution to long-standing confusion around this area. Beyond the Wilderness designations, other conservation designations will add permanent protections for wildlife habitat and seasonal migrations in this corner of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Existing recreation access will be maintained for all of us whether we are hikers, bikers, horse users, snowmobilers, or skiers. The act allows for timber and recreation pressure to be managed in a way that will keep Bozemans drinking water clean. If you missed the Wild Backyard Bash in your community and want to learn more, please visit us at greateryellowstoneact.org. We look forward to continued conversations in our communities as we build broad-based support for this proposed legislation among a wide range of stakeholders. Denise Wade is the owner of Big Sky Adventures and Tours, member of the Gallatin Forest Partnership, and passionate proponent of wildlife protection. Henry Glenn is President of the Gallatin Valley Backcountry Horsemen, member of the Gallatin Forest Partnership, and an avid steward of the wilderness he loves. Ian Jones is a co-founder of Southwest Montana Mountain Bike Association, member of the Gallatin Forest Partnership, and advocate for public-lands recreation and conservation. LAHAINA, Hawaii (KHON2) Thousands of Lahaina and Kula properties look like a gravel lot. A new Maui Recovery Permit Center opened in Kahului, meant to offer streamlined services to help residents move forward with home restoration efforts. While dozens have started breaking ground on the rebuild, Maui Countys Director of Public Works tells KHON2 its going slow. He says the permit fee for a typical home thats approximately 2,000 feet costs between $3,000 to $5,000. 37 permits have been issued. Theres approximately 70 or so that are in review. So, you know that to us, that seems like a low number. And we think its a lot contributed because of the cost of the rebuilds, Maui County Director of Public Works Jordan Molina said. Molina adds, that through this process the County learned many property owners are underinsured. First Maui wildfire survivors move into Hale O Laie units in Kihei Lot of people were underinsured, even if they had full insurance just because of the cost of labor cost of materials, Molina said. So thats a challenge. We are still kind of working through to see where we can provide support for property owners as they venture on their rebuilds, Among those navigating the complexities of rebuilding is Garrett McGrath. I was a first-time home buyer. We went with the insurance the lender recommended. And unfortunately, we were told we were about 90,000 underinsured. And that was the day of the fire. Now obviously materials have gone up in price, McGrath said. He lost his home in the wildfires. The McGraths are renting a home for their family of four as they struggle with the rebuild. Theyll soon have to juggle both rent and mortgage payments. State will pay about $800 million in Lahaina wildfires settlement agreement We still have a mortgage. and its going on a year now we havent had to pay yet but every three months we have to beg plead out case and when that ends, were going to pay rent and mortgage and thats going to take directly from our underinsured money, McGrath said. The question is how are we going to do it? He doesnt want others to learn the hard way. As soon as we found this out, I told my family, and they checked their insurance. Because the cost of materials has gone up so much, you might think youre fully insured and come to find out, things have doubled, tripled, in price, he said. Maybe you dont have enough to rebuild. Thats a tough pill to swallow, Despite the challenges, Director of Public Works Molina asked for patience and cooperation from the community. Food distribution center opens in West Maui Weve been hearing that its very expensive, for example, like that apartment building that was just built in November of 2022. I think their original rebuild costs was in the range of $30 to $35 million, or the original cost was $30 to $45 million, the rebuild cost is in the range of 60 million, Molina said. So just so they just them alone are looking at almost doubling in their price. And they had full insurance, the maximum insurance they could have they had, and its still not enough. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Astronaut Mark Kelly, bottom left, flew into Daytona Beach to visit his parents, Flagler Beach residents Richard and Patricia Kelly, and took this undated photo with John Mazur Sr., right, and his two sons, Matthew, top, and Johnny, both of whom became pilots. U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly, who until Tuesday was among the final contenders for Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate, has at least a couple of Volusia-Flagler ties, including a hand in the development of the Flagler Beach city flag. Kelly's parents, Richard and Patricia, were both police officers in West Orange, New Jersey, where they raised both Mark and his twin brother Scott, who both became NASA astronauts who reached space. The Kellys later became residents of Flagler Beach. Mark Kelly In 2001, as Mark Kelly was scheduled to pilot the Space Shuttle Endeavour, he offered to his father to bring something along that would represent their adopted coastal Florida home. Richard Kelly suggested flying the Flagler Beach city flag into space. Only Flagler Beach didn't have a flag. Richard Kelly who, according to a 2002 News-Journal report, had wanted the city to adopt a flag said by promising it would go into space, he hoped it would inspire city officials to create one. The Flagler Beach city flag on display at the Flagler Beach Historical Museum. It worked. A committee designed a flag, with a light blue background containing the city seal showing the pier and the words Flagler Beach, Florida. And now the flag is part of the Flagler Beach Historical Museum. "Not too many people get an opportunity like that," Richard Kelly told city commissioners in 2002. A display honoring the Kelly brothers, Mark and Scott, twins and NASA astronauts who both reached space, hangs at the Flagler Beach Historical Museum. The Kellys later moved to Texas to live closer to their grandchildren, and Patricia Kelly died in 2012 of lung cancer. Port Orange resident recalls meeting Mark Kelly During the time the Kellys lived in Flagler Beach, Richard Kelly met airline pilot John Mazur Sr. of Spruce Creek Fly-In. They got to talking and Richard Kelly invited Mazur to bring his sons to meet his son, the Endeavour captain and future senator. Mark Kelly arrived at Daytona International Airport in his T-38 Talon jet, where he delivered autographed pictures of himself and his twin astronaut brother Scott, to Mazur's sons, Matt and Johnny. Both boys earned their pilot licenses as Spruce Creek High School students, their father said. Matt Mazur was a presidential scholar at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, helped establish an unmanned aerial systems company and became a Boeing business development strategist and blockchain technology expert. John Mazur Jr. has completed four years of medical school at Auburn University, and completed his airline transport pilot license with an Airbus 320 type rating with intentions to follow in his father's footsteps in aviation. Pilot John Mazur Sr. shown in 2017, is a Spruce Creek Fly-In resident who says astronaut and future U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly inspired his sons to strive for achievements, including both becoming pilots themselves. "Having personally met astronaut Mark Kelly was a big influence in their lives, encouraging them to always do their best in whatever they're involved in," John Mazur Sr. said. This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Astronaut Mark Kelly inspired Daytona-area pilots, Flagler Beach flag What records did Hurricane Debby break in Manatee County? It wasnt just rainfall Hurricane Debbys deluge broke more than one record in Manatee County, according to the National Weather Service. On Sunday, the rain gauge at the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport broke the record for the highest daily rainfall ever measured at 11.06 inches. The previous record was 10.80 inches on June 23, 1945, the NWS said. On Monday night, the Manatee River followed with a record of its own when it rose to its highest crest, or water level, ever measured in East Manatee County. The gauge that measures the rivers height at Rye Bridge in East Manatee County recorded a crest of 20.12 feet around 9:15 p.m. Monday. That breaks the record for the highest river level recorded. The all-time record was a 20-foot crest in 1962, before the construction of the Lake Manatee Dam. The dam was built in the mid-60s, according to the Florida Parks Service. This embedded content is not available in your region. The highest river crest recorded since the dam was built was 19.71 feet in 2003. At over 11 feet, the river begins to flood and can reach the foundations of homes, according to the NWS. By 17 feet, water can reach the foundations of elevated homes and the Christian Retreat Center in East Manatee County. Flood warnings are in effect for the Manatee River near the Rye Bridge until late Thursday afternoon and near Myakka Head until late Thursday evening. Water levels in Lake Manatee also surged during the storm, prompting county officials to start an emergency release of water on Monday to prevent damage to the Lake Manatee Dam. The National Weather Service says Hurricane Debby broke more than one historic record in Bradenton. A portion of Manatee River exceeded its banks below the Lake Manatee Dam and surrounded sections of Erie Road Tuesday morning. Manatee County storm surge, rainfall, wind numbers Thankfully, Hurricane Debbys storm surge did not set any records in Southwest Florida. Preliminary numbers showed an average of 2 to 3 feet of surge from Southwest Florida up to Tampa Bay, according to meteorologist Tony Hurt at NWSs Tampa Bay office in Ruskin. Hurt said meteorologists are still gathering data from the storm that will reveal more insights about its impact. Here are the NWSs latest preliminary total rainfall numbers for the entire storm event in Manatee County: Lakewood Ranch: 17.64 inches Parrish: 14.66 inches Ellenton: 12.17 inches Bradenton: 11.88 Samoset: 11.32 inches Preliminary maximum wind gust numbers show the highest winds in Manatee County were recorded in Palmetto: Palmetto: 70 mph Anna Maria Island: 64 mph Whitfield: 64 mph Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport: 63 mph Recreational marijuana has come to Ohio and the apocalypse hasn't. Who knew! Ray Marcano, a longtime journalist, is the former national president of the Society of Professional Journalists, a two-time Pulitzer juror, and a Fulbright fellow. He is a frequent Columbus Dispatch contributor. Legal recreational cannabis sales start in Ohio today. Ho-hum. Remember those apocalyptic warnings of doom if Ohio voters approved the sale of recreational marijuana? They approved it anyway, and the earth hasnt opened to swallow the states heathens. Some Republicans fought against the bill and later tried to gut it, put in a rare display of bipartisanship, members of both parties said no, were going to follow the will of the voters who this past November approved the citizen-led initiative petition. Now, those voters can light up if they choose. Where can you buy legal weed in Ohio? May 15, 2024; Yellow Springs, Ohio, USA; Cresco Labs grows its first marijuana crop for Ohio's new adult recreational use program. This isnt the Wild West of Weed. Safeguards in the law make it easy for governments to postpone marijuana sales in their communities. As of July 19, some 71 jurisdictions have placed moratoriums on adult-use marijuana operators, according to the Moritz College of Law at The Ohio State University. Westerville, Jerome Twp. and Marysville in central Ohio are among the jurisdictions that have enacted moratoriums. Just about six dozen jurisdictions taking action might sound like a lot, but it represents only three percent of the incorporated municipalities and townships in Ohio. Thats another indication selling marijuana is a big ho-hum. There arent that many cities and towns worked up because adults can now legally roll a doobie and grow a few plants (the law says up to six plants per person or a maximum of 12 per household for personal consumption). Marijuana to abortion: 4 times Ohio politicians betrayed will of people in 2023 That means lots of places you can buy. The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control released its dispensary map that shows you can initially buy weed at 98 locations throughout the state, including 10 in Columbus, eight in Cincinnati, five in Cleveland and four in Dayton. Some of the approved dispensaries may need a little more time to open, and the state will approve more over time. Expect breathless media coverage with interviews from stores with smiling owners and people who dont mind telling the world they like a little pot here and there. But its all ho-hum. From Buckeye State to Ganga state? Not so fast. When Ohio voters approved cannabis sales with 57% of the vote, it became the 24th state to allow purchase of small amounts of marijuana. Republicans here warned of increased crime and untold (and unspecified) damage to children. But independent research hasnt been able to substantiate that claim. Ohio wont turn from the Buckeye to the Ganga state, since you can only legally buy and possess 2.5 ounces of cannabis and 15 grams of extracts. The law has a number of safeguards in place including the aforementioned moratorium provision that means communities leery of cannabis operations can keep them out (for now). Ray Marcano, a longtime journalist, is the former national president of the Society of Professional Journalists, a two-time Pulitzer juror, and a Fulbright fellow. It also makes sense to finally make recreational use from approved dispensaries legal. Ohio decriminalized marijuana use in 1975 and a number of local jurisdictions followed suit over the years. In 2016, the state legalized medical marijuana. When you put all of this together local control, what Ohio has already done you wonder what the fuss is about. There is no fuss. Not anymore. Ho-hum. Ray Marcano, a longtime journalist, is the former national president of the Society of Professional Journalists, a two-time Pulitzer juror, and a Fulbright fellow. He is a frequent Columbus Dispatch contributor. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Is weed legal in Ohio? Why recreational marijuana won't change much EYEWITNESS NEWS (WBRE/WYOU) The American Red Cross has declared an emergency blood shortage as it reports its blood inventory took a drastic drop in July. Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. That demand is seen at hospitals all across our country. However, the number of blood donors is plummeting as the American Red Cross marked a more than 25% drop in July. Harris picks Walz for vice president The Red Cross supplies 40% of the nations blood with all types needed, especially O+ and O-, as well as platelet donations to help reverse what theyre calling an emergency shortage. Executive Director Sherry Nealon-shrive says this comes at a time when theyre already seeing a lack of donors. People go on vacations, their calendars are changing you know so the every 56-day donor who can donate five to six times a year, they dont come out as scheduled because of, you know, normal life. But she says theyre facing the fewest number of donors in the past two decades.. Along with this summers extreme heat impacting 100 blood drives in nearly every state last month. Thats why theyre offering any donor a $20 Amazon gift card, with hopes to draw in more people to area blood drives and raise awareness of this nationwide crisis. Remember, theres no replacement for blood. Nothing else can replace it so the only way we can provide the blood thats needed is for people to roll up their sleeves and donate and those donors are the reason that people can stay alive. They keep people living and thats a very important factor. One donation of blood can save up to three lives. The American Red Cross also has a blood donor app, where you can not only find local blood drives, but donors can track where their blood is sent to help save someones life. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com. REEDLEY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) Students will be able to take their careers to new heights, thanks to the launch of the new flight school location for Reedley College. This Friday, August 9, Reedley College will be having a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new location for its flight school at the Reedley Municipal Airport at 8 a.m. The flight training portion of the program will now exclusively operate at the new location, which includes five briefing stations used to track weather conditions and conduct multiple pre and post-flight requirements. The new location will also serve as a spot for the Aviation Maintenance Technology program to work on special projects and the schools business jet. This is an extension of the schools Aviation and Flight Sciences program that started back in 2018. Alongside the ribbon-cutting ceremony, there is also an opportunity to take a tour of the facility, the on-campus hangar, the flight simulator lab, and breakfast. More information about the Reedley College Aviation and Flight Sciences program can be found on the Reedley College website. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47. Remains Found Inside Crocodile May Belong to Missing 40-Year-Old Man Who 'Fell' into River, Australian Police Say Police said the man was "fishing" when he "fell into the water and failed to resurface, on Saturday, Aug. 3 Go Fund Me Dave Hogbin Police in Australia are working to confirm the identity of the person whose remains were found inside a crocodile. On Tuesday, Aug. 6, Queensland Police shared in a news release that they located human remains inside a crocodile in Cooktown, Australia, and that the coroners office is conducting a formal identification process to determine a positive identity. However, police noted that they believe the remains may belong to that of a missing 40-year-old New South Wales man, and have suspended search and rescue efforts for him in the meantime. In an earlier post, Queensland Police shared that the man went missing while fishing in the Annan River area in Cooktown on Saturday, Aug. 3. Related: Australian Man Survives Crocodile Attack by Biting Back: Report Initial investigations indicate the man had been fishing on the riverbank, when he fell into the water and failed to resurface, police said, adding that they received a report around 2 p.m. local time that the man had been taken by a crocodile. Queensland Police A photo of the search and rescue for missing 40-year-old man by Queensland Police Queensland Police said it had been working alongside the Department of Environment and Science (DES) Wildlife Officers who were assisting with the search. Police are working with wildlife officers as investigations continue, the police department said. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Queensland Police Acting Chief Superintendent Shane Holmes told media outlets, per the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), that "there was a sighting of the crocodile earlier on," prior to the man falling into the water. The New South Wales man who went missing was identified as Dave Hogbin by his sister-in-law Alexis Carey on news.com.au. Related: Man Attacked by Crocodile While Trying to Swim to Shore After His Boat Capsized at Florida Park Hogbin had been on a camping trip with his wife Jane and their three sons in the Annan River near Cooktown when he opted to walk on an established path along the riverbank, according to Carey and a GoFundMe. Carey told the outlet that a portion of the bank collapsed, possibly due to heavy rainfall in the area, causing him to fall into the river. Carey said Hognin's wife had been nearby and she had grabbed his arm and attempted to pull him to safety, but began slipping into the river as well, so he decided to let her go. She said that when he did, a 4.9 meter (16 foot) crocodile took him. His wife, Jane, told news.com.au: He saved me his last act was to not pull me in with him. Im glad Im still here, because it could have been a millionfold worse for everyone involved, not just the boys. I want to put a face to this tragedy someone didnt just get killed by a crocodile, we have lost a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, friend and doctor, she added to the outlet. David touched so many peoples lives that everyone deserves to know who he was and how it all ended for him. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Utah 2nd District Rep. Celeste Maloy speaks to attendees while the results are still too close to call at a primary election watch party at the Utah Trucking Association in West Valley City on Tuesday, June 25, 2024. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News Rep. Celeste Maloy beat Colby Jenkins in the 2nd Congressional District Republican primary recount on Monday by the closest margin in 30 years. But both candidates issued tentative statements as the Utah Supreme Court considers a lawsuit from Jenkins contesting the election results. The final recount coming nearly six weeks after Election Day showed Maloys lead narrowing to 176 votes from the initial 214-vote lead after counties certified the initial count on July 9. Maloy said the consistency between the two counts is a reflection of the good job done by county election workers. The county clerks and their staffs have done amazing work to count and recount the ballots. Their process has been thorough, transparent and their remarkable accuracy should inspire confidence in our election system, Maloy said in a statement. I recognize that there is ongoing litigation and I am eager to get a decision from the courts. We will continue to monitor the situation closely. Meanwhile, I will continue to focus on advancing a conservative agenda for the people of Utahs 2nd District. Maloys early election-night lead of nearly 1,000 votes fell in subsequent days to just over 200 votes, within the recount threshold of roughly 270 votes, or .25% of total votes cast. Jenkins filed an official recount request on July 29 the final day he could do so giving all 13 counties seven days, until Aug. 5, to reexamine all rejected ballots and retabulate all viable ones. The Maloy and Jenkins campaigns both suggested they did not expect the recount to change the outcome of the election. Jenkins is now relying on a petition pending before Utahs highest court to rule on whether the 2nd District GOP race featured illegal votes that were counted or legal votes that were rejected. In every step of this process, we have advanced bit-by-bit and the votes weve gained in this recount are one more example of that, Jenkins said in a statement. What was a race that was too-close-to-call is now even closer. We eagerly await a decision from the Utah Supreme Court to ensure that every legal vote is counted, and every voice is heard. Jenkins takes legal steps to contest results Jenkins appeal to the judicial branch to intervene in the election could be decided as soon as this week. Wednesday is the deadline for the respondents which include Utah Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson and all 13 county clerks in the 2nd District to file a response to Jenkins allegations. The courts justices will have until Friday to schedule a hearing for oral arguments or to dismiss the case. Jenkins argues that election officials violated the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution by unfairly rejecting some ballots that were mailed before the deadline but received a late postmark from the U.S. Postal Service. Mail-in ballots must be stamped by post offices before Election Day to be counted by county election offices, according to state code. Mail from all, or parts, of nine 2nd District counties is sent through the postal services Las Vegas Area Distribution Center to be postmarked before they arrive at county election offices. This travel time can sometimes delay postmarking by a day or more, the lawsuit alleges, potentially resulting in ballots being postmarked late even if they were placed in mail boxes on June 24, or earlier, and before the listed mail collection time. The close race highlighted some points of concern with Utahs primarily vote-by-mail election system. Jenkins filed two lawsuits during the canvass period following the June 25 election both of which were dismissed by a judge. Each of the lawsuits alleged unfair treatment by county election officials who either denied voter information to his campaign or who discarded ballots that were postmarked late by the U.S. Postal Service after they were allegedly put in the mail on time. Jenkins campaign has since petitioned the Utah Supreme Court to challenge the certification of the Republican primary election using similar arguments. Multiple voters are willing to sign affidavits that their ballots were put in the mail during the recommended time, the filing claims, adding that voters in the affected counties were not made aware that their ballots would be delayed even though the state legislature was aware of this problem before the election. Over 1,000 ballots were rejected in the districts population centers of Iron County and Washington County because of a late postmark from the U.S. Postal Service. Troubles with ballot machines during recount Two counties, Tooele and Washington, also experienced software errors during the recount process that prevented tabulation machines from updating the results of adjudicated ballots. Adjudicated ballots are those with unclear markings that require poll workers to determine the voters intent. When attempting to input adjudicated ballots into the the vote tally kept by electronic election equipment, poll workers were met with an error message that the adjudicated ballots were not reflected in the total results, Washington County stated in a press release on Thursday. After the Tooele County clerk conducted a hand recount of precincts with adjudicated ballots to get an accurate vote total for each candidate, she said the voter technology provider, Election Systems & Software, eventually found a way to avoid the software error by updating adjudicated ballots in small batches. The Lieutenant Governors Office reached out to all 29 Utah counties and determined that Tooele and Washington were the only ones affected by the error. State election director Ryan Cowley and Henderson reviewed the problem and reported their findings and recommendations on Monday. In a statement published Monday evening, Henderson said they were able to determine that the error was a result of ES&Ss ElectionWare software malfunctioning and not the result of human error. I am concerned about the software error that occurred, but glad that we were able to react quickly to understand its scope and impact and get it fixed in the recount. We will be investigating this further to ensure it never happens again, Henderson said. Im grateful to the county clerks and my elections team for their swift and thorough action to resolve this issue and ensure we met the recount deadline. A historical congressional race The Maloy-Jenkins matchup has been Utahs closest congressional primary in 30 years. The 1994 3rd District GOP primary saw Emery County Commissioner Dixie Thompson pull ahead of Provo real estate developer Tom Draschil by just 156 votes out of the 31,596 votes cast. The margin barely fell within the then-broader recount threshold of .5%. The subsequent recount extended Thompsons lead to 185 votes. This years race was also a test for the endorsements of some of the Republican Partys biggest names. Sen. Mike Lee broke with longtime personal precedent, and Utah political norms, by endorsing Jenkins, a political newcomer, against his freshly elected colleague. Maloy entered office in November after a special election to fill the seat left open by the resignation of her boss, former Rep. Chris Stewart. The endorsement marked Lees first time using his influence among Utah conservatives in a congressional primary at home. While some Lee supporters said his endorsement turned out to be a net negative for his influence in the state, advisers to Lee and Jenkins said the gamble helped Lees political brand. Lee and Jenkins focused their criticisms of Maloy on her approval of 2024 budget and government surveillance reauthorization bills that Lee opposed. Jenkins also said that Lee conducted an in-depth interview with him on how he would vote if elected before making the endorsement. A week before the election, Trump, the partys GOP nominee for president, put his thumb on the scale for Maloy. Trump endorsed Maloy just hours after meeting with U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, who had also endorsed Maloy, along with Utahs entire U.S. House delegation. During her first term, Maloy introduced legislation with Lee to transfer some federal lands to Utah, passed a bill to improve government programs for women-owned small businesses, pushed the Justice Department to crack down on teen vaping and voted against further military aid to Ukraine. Maloys vote in favor of the $1.2 trillion 2024 government funding package and her decision to renew Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, after the failure of an amendment requiring warrants to collect information from Americans, both served as reasons for Lees endorsement and fodder for Jenkins campaign attacks. Congresswoman Celeste Maloy takes her opportunity to talk after Utahs 2nd Congressional district debate between and herself and Colby Jenkins at the KUED studios at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City on Monday, June 10, 2024. (Pool photo by Scott G Winterton/Deseret News) The recount called by Rep. Celeste Maloys Republican challenger Colby Jenkins shrank the already razor-thin margin keeping Maloy in Utahs 2nd Congressional District seat, but not enough to change the outcome of the race. Recount results posted on the states election website at 5:19 p.m. Monday showed Maloy won with 50.08% of the vote to Jenkins 49.92%, or 53,777 votes to 53,601. Jenkins trailed Maloy by just 176 votes, down from 214 votes when election results were certified on July 22. Under state law, a losing candidate can call a recount if the vote margin is equal to or less than 0.25% of the total number of votes cast. Trailing by a slim 0.2%, Jenkins was within that recount range and requested one as was legally allowed. While the recount found Jenkins enough ballots to close the margin by 38 more votes, it wasnt enough to flip the race, and Maloy was declared the winner as she expected when Jenkins initially called the recount. After county clerks officially finalized the recount Monday evening, Utahs top election official Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson declared Maloy the winner of the June 25 primary. Maloy now advances to the November election, where shes slated to compete with Democrat Nathaniel Woodward, Constitution Party Candidate Cassie Easley, and unaffiliated candidate Tyler Murset. Congratulations to Congresswoman Celeste Maloy, Henderson wrote in a post on X. However, just because the recount has wrapped doesnt mean the Republican primary for Utahs 2nd Congressional District is buttoned up. In addition to calling the recount, Jenkins last week also filed a petition with the Utah Supreme Court attempting to contest the election. In the filing, Jenkins asked Utahs highest court to direct clerks in nine southern Utah counties to count 1,171 by-mail ballots that were disqualified for late postmarking. Though Utah law requires vote-by-mail ballots to be postmarked no later than the day before Election Day, Jenkins argued in his petition that rule disenfranchises a significant number of voters who only reside in southern Utah because mail in ZIP codes from those areas is sent to the U.S. Postal Services Las Vegas facility for processing before being sent back to clerks in Utah, which Jenkins argues resulted in delays that many southern Utah voters were unaware of and left them with disqualified ballots. The Utah Supreme Court has not yet weighed in on Jenkins petition, but must do so within 30 days from the day it was filed, according to Utah law. Jenkins filed it on July 30. After recount results were finalized, Jenkins in a post on X expressed gratitude for election workers tireless efforts in the recount, but he did not concede. In every step of this process, we have advanced bit-by-bit and the votes weve gained in this recount are one more example of that, Jenkins said. What was a race that was too-close-to-call is now even closer. We eagerly await a decision from the Utah Supreme Court to ensure that every legal vote is counted, and every voice is heard. Maloy, in a prepared statement issued Monday, said county clerks and their staff have done amazing work to count and recount the ballots. Their process has been thorough, transparent and their remarkable accuracy should inspire confidence in our election system. I thank them for their efforts, she said. Maloy who declared victory when some of the remaining ballots were counted on July 9 also acknowledged Jenkins attempt to contest the election remains a lingering issue. I recognize that there is ongoing litigation and I am eager to get a decision from the courts, she said. We will continue to monitor the situation closely. Meanwhile, I will continue to focus on advancing a conservative agenda for the people of Utahs 2nd District. Utahs 2nd Congressional District debate between Colby Jenkins and Rep. Celeste Maloy at the KUED studios at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City on Monday, June 10, 2024. (Pool photo by Scott G Winterton/Deseret News) Recount uncovers software issue The recount results came Monday on the seventh and final day required under Utah law for a recount to be conducted once its called after two counties discovered discrepancies that were not found during the primarys initial counting and canvass process. Tooele and Washington counties strongholds for Jenkins both uncovered software issues during the recount that caused ballot tabulation machines to not update results for adjudicated ballots. Adjudicated ballots are ballots that have unclear markings (such as two bubbles filled in rather than a clear mark for one preferred candidate) that poll workers are required to review to determine voters intent. Thursday, when the Washington County Clerk-Auditors office attempted to finalize the recount results, election staff received an error message signaling adjudicated ballots were not reflected in the total results, according to a press release the county posted on its Facebook page. That prompted the Washington County clerk to extend its canvass until Monday so his office could review all of the adjudicated ballots. Monday, Washington County Clerk Ryan Sullivan told county commissioners, acting as the board of canvassers, that his office had finalized reviewing the adjudicated ballots along with the rest of the countys 36,160 ballots counted in Washington Countys 2nd Congressional District race. The recount discovered a total of nine additional ballots that we determined could be counted that were not initially included in Washington Countys certified primary results, Sullivan said. Five of those ballots were discovered to be postmarked before Election Day, while four were able to be cured after re-inspecting signatures. One ballot was discovered after recounting a particular batch of ballots that hadnt been counted previously, Sullivan said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Also on Thursday, Tooele County Clerk Tracy Shaw discovered a similar software issue affecting 55 adjudicated ballots, according to a news release issued by Hendersons office, prompting that county to review its adjudicated ballots. Nothing is more important to state and local election officials than ensuring that every eligible vote is accurately counted, Henderson said in a statement issued Thursday. This is part of the process and why we have recounts. I am grateful to Tooele County Clerk Tracy Shaw who, because of her diligence, discovered this issue, brought it to our attention, and corrected it. Ultimately, of the 55 adjudicated ballots in Tooele County, 37 were cast for Jenkins while 18 were cast for Maloy, Henderson said in a Saturday post on X. She noted Washington County had the same issue with the same software vendor, Election Systems & Software, and was working to correct the issue. Washington County had the same issue as Tooele. Theyve been working with software vendor ES&S to correct it. Accuracy is the only acceptable outcome, and we are grateful for the diligent efforts and attention to detail of Washington County Clerk Ryan Sullivan and his team. 4/ Deidre Henderson (@DeidreHenderson) August 3, 2024 If there continues to be an issue with ES&S software, I will direct the county to use different methods, including hand counting, to verify the results, Henderson posted, also noting that as soon as her office was made aware of the issue, her staff immediately worked with each county to review their data and processes from multiple angles to find out who else might have had the same issue. Washington and Tooele counties were the only counties affected, she said, and both took steps to correct the issue. In order to ensure the issue doesnt occur again in Utah, Henderson said Ryan Cowley, her director of elections, is thoroughly reviewing this matter and will report his findings and recommendations on Monday. Im also demanding answers and accountability from software and voting equipment provider ES&S about what happened and how theyll restore Utahs confidence in their products, she wrote. Recount report On Monday, Henderson released a recount report detailing the software issue. In a news release, Hendersons office said it was determined that the error was isolated to these two counties and did not affect any other counties that used the software. Importantly, the report emphasizes that the error was a result of a software malfunction and not human error, Hendersons office noted. Election officials in both counties followed proper procedures and identified the discrepancy, leading to the discovery of the software issue. Henderson, in a prepared statement, said her office will be investigating the issue further to prevent it from happening again in future elections. I am concerned about the software error that occurred, but glad that we were able to react quickly to understand its scope and impact and get it fixed in the recount, Henderson said. We will be investigating this further to ensure it never happens again. Im grateful to the county clerks and my elections team for their swift and thorough action to resolve this issue and ensure we met the recount deadline. According to the recount report, 36 adjudicated ballots in Washington County were added to the recount tally that were not included in the certified June primary results. Jenkins received 26 votes and Maloy received 10 votes, resulting in a net gain of 16 votes for Jenkins in that county. In Tooele County, the 55 adjudicated ballots that were added to the recount tally produced 37 votes for Jenkins and 18 votes for Maloy, resulting in a net gain of 19 votes for Jenkins, according to the recount report. According to the report, Cowley asked Election Systems & Software to provide a public accounting of the software issue and submit a preliminary report. In that memo, released by Hendersons office on Monday, ES&S officials wrote the company apologizes for the impact the delays caused by this error had on election officials, the candidates and the voters, and thanks all for the measures taken to ensure Utah elections are accurate and secure. Let us know what you think... Additionally, Katina Granger, ES&S senior manager of public relations, issued a statement included in the recount report. Upon inspection of the election database, it was confirmed that the adjudicated ballots were correctly counted and recorded; however, had not successfully saved to the reporting module, Granger said. The issue was corrected by identifying the adjudicated ballots that did not save properly, clearing out those ballots, and re-loading them in smaller batches, resulting in accurate and reliable results. Granger added that ES&S is currently working with state and county officials that participated in the recount to audit all databases involved in the recount. In the report, Cowley concluded that based on analyses conducted by clerks, election workers, ES&S, the Lieutenant Governors Office is confident that the results of the recount are correct. However, he added, this issue is significant and merits further attention. He then recommended the following actions to Henderson: The State of Utah should discontinue the use of electronic adjudication in any county using ES&S software indefinitely. The Office of the Lieutenant Governor should conduct a thorough review of all systems and results in ES&S-supported counties that used electronic adjudication in the June 2024 Primary Election. The objective of the reviews will be twofold: Identify if the commit results error was present, and if the issue was present, identify any discrepancies in the number of votes. The results of the review will then be published. The Office of the Lieutenant Governor should conduct a review of processes and analyses that could be implemented to strengthen existing procedures. The goal of this review will be to ensure that not only this issue but any other issues will be timely detected before canvassing results in future elections. Read the full recount report here: 08-05-24 Second Congressional District recount report DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST SINGAPORE, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Trip.Biz, the corporate travel arm of Trip.com Group, released its Corporate Travel Management Market White Paper, highlighting the key trends and behaviours in the business travel landscape. Informed by nearly 2,000 respondents*, the White Paper included data from an online survey and face-to-face interviews, as well as third-party research. Corporate travel soars, especially in Asia Like leisure travel, business travel is on the rise. Global business travel spending maintained strong growth in the first half of 2023 and is expected to recover to USD 1.5 trillion by 2024, according to a report issued by the Global Business Travel Association. The APAC region is leading in business travel expenditure, with a projected growth of 41.2%. Specifically, business travel spending in Singapore, Thailand, and New Zealand is expected to grow by more than 75%, ranking these countries as the top three in the region. Additionally, Japan and South Korea, along with European counterparts Italy and the UK, are also experiencing rapid growth in business travel spending. Trip.Biz is staying ahead of the region's meteoric rise, with its headquarters in Singapore and partnerships with Japan, Vietnam, Thailand and London. Further expansions are also planned in Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea and more. Elsewhere in Asia, China's resurgence as the world's largest business travel market is particularly noteworthy. Its business travel market recovered at a rate of 39.2% in 2023 and is expected to return to 2019 levels by 2024. The recovery of its outbound market has been driven by recent visa-free policies, with Southeast Asia emerging as a major destination. China is also attracting international travellers, with cities such as Hangzhou and Nanjing gaining prominence as business travel destinations. Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou remain among the most popular cities for business travel. AI and ESG: transforming business travel According to Trip.Biz's survey, over 50% of businesses said they are likely to adopt AI technologies. Travel managers and travellers expressed hope that AI could be used in itinerary planning, process optimisation, data analysis and more to minimise human error and repetitive tasks. Such advancements have the potential to revolutionise business travel management, and Trip.com Group has been at the forefront of this transformation, testing various "AI + tourism" applications. For instance, its intuitive AI assistant, TripGenie, can generate travel recommendations within seconds based on user prompts or questions in the app. Plans are also underway to make TripGenie available to business travellers on Trip.Biz. Story continues Moreover, AI has enhanced internal work efficiency at Trip.Biz and supported the customer service team in resolving inquiries and delivering a seamless experience for travellers. AI's impact extends beyond bookings and data gathering. It can also verify the authenticity of invoices during reimbursement, reducing administrative burdens. In the near future, AI is expected to amplify personalisation and become multimodal, though regulatory concerns remain. Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors are increasingly important for businesses and investors, with lower-emission flights and hotels taking lower-carbon initiatives being key considerations for pursuing more sustainable travel. 91.6% of business travellers are likely to choose these options. The top three business ESG measures include encouraging such choices, as well as prioritising employee welfare and advocating for paperless offices. To further this goal, Trip.Biz is one of the leading TMC companies to publish flight carbon emission data in 2022. By 2023, this expanded to include carbon emission data for hotels, trains, and cars in selected regions, along with corporate carbon emission credit accounts, carbon budgeting and control. Trends: the top likes and dislikes of business travellers International business travel is seeing distinct trends in traveller preferences emerge. For accommodation, business travellers surveyed cited flexibility and efficiency, a quiet environment and safety as their top priorities. Mid-range to high-end hotels are preferred among them. Regarding flight booking, direct routes are the most sought-after, even outweighing suitable flight arrival and departure times. Once on board, travellers also highly value comfort and service quality. Ground transportation is also evolving. Satisfaction with train and high-speed railway services is largely influenced by the overall environment, making the launch of Biz Travel's Train Seat Selection function in 2024 especially timely. This new feature enhances travel by allowing passengers to select their seats. For car use and rental, safety remains the top priority, even surpassing comfort and travel policies. Another key trend is the rise of "special forces" business travel, reflecting a rapid, military-style approach to travel favoured by younger professionals. This corporate travel trend emphasises advanced planning, efficient itineraries, and cost minimisation. For instance, such business travellers book typically book their trips at least two weeks in advance, arrive at airports 1.5 hours before departure, and often stay only 1-2 days in hotels. Check-ins generally occur around 19:00, with check-outs by 8:00, indicating a preference for tighter schedules. On the other end, "bleisure" travel is on the rise, with 95% of business travellers in 2023 expressing a willingness to combine business and leisure activities, a 3.7% increase from 2022. Overall, more business travellers are going further too, as more long-distance routes resume. Business travel offers great growth opportunities in a recovering market. However, companies also face challenges such as rising costs of flights, hotels and other travel services. Employees mention issues with accommodation conditions, sleep quality, and long transport times during trips. Post-trip, managing receipts and securing reimbursements can be challenging. "Trip.Biz aims to offer quality business travel solutions that address these challenges and maximise opportunities with an all-in-one digital business travel solution," said Violet Zong, Chief Marketing Officer of Trip.Biz. "Through initiatives such as offering extensive content with exclusive rates and data-driven consultancy, we are committed to providing seamless travel experiences that enhance productivity and support business growth." For more detailed insights, read the full Trip.Biz Corporate Travel Management Market White Paper. *Respondents from mainland China About Trip.Biz Trip.Biz is a digital TMC powered by Trip.com group. Headquartered in Singapore, Trip.Biz is elevating business travel management through human-centric technology, rich inventory, and sustainable solutions, all on one platform. With roots dating back to 2006, Trip.Biz has already garnered the trust of over 15,000 large-scale corporations and more than 1,000,000 small to medium-sized enterprises in business travel across the globe. Our global customer service POSs cater to clients across different time zones. Trip.Biz is committed to providing cost-effective and time-efficient solutions that enable businesses to focus on what really matters - growth and success. By saving on travel, businesses can invest more in their core operations, expand their reach, and achieve their goals. Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/tripbiz-white-paper-apac-tops-global-business-travel-spending-ai--esg-as-key-transformative-factors-302215338.html SOURCE Trip.Biz Who is Rep. Daniel Grossberg? The liberal voice in KY legislature is under investigation State Rep. Daniel Benjamin Grossberg, the Louisville Democrat who is being investigated for alleged inappropriate conduct toward women, has been a prominent liberal voice in the Kentucky General Assembly during his brief time in office. He also owns several real estate investment companies that are in bad standing with the secretary of states office, pending dissolution, according to the offices website. The Legislative Research Commission, the administrative arm of the legislature, is investigating texts that Grossberg sent to several women who work with lawmakers, commenting on their physical appearance, the Herald-Leader reported last week. The women said the texts were creepy or weird and made them feel uneasy. In response, the Kentucky House Democratic Caucus has temporarily suspended Grossberg from its membership and called for a separate investigation by the Legislative Ethics Commission. Grossberg, 45, is married to a school teacher. He has denied any impropriety. I never, in my work, approached or crossed a line in my professional communications. Any claim that private texts on my personal cell phone are work related have no merit. I steadfastly deny any impropriety, Grossberg said in a statement released by his attorney. For many in Kentucky, Grossbergs political profile has been quite muted. Elected in 2022, when he ousted 90-year-old Democratic Rep. Tom Burch from a four-decade tenure, Grossberg hasnt achieved much of substance. He really cant. Hes surrounded by Republican super-majorities in the House and Senate who control the legislative agenda at the state Capitol. As a result, his bills seldom move anywhere. Like others in the Democratic minority, most of them from Louisville and Lexington, his fiery speeches for liberal causes only slow the inevitable passage of whatever rural and suburban GOP lawmakers want to do on a given day. Good people will die because of what weve done here today, Grossberg said during the March 2023 floor debate as the House easily overrode Democratic Gov. Andy Beshears veto of Senate Bill 150, banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors. To the LGBTQ children listening: You are not broken, your government is. Grossberg has been outspoken in favor of civil rights, gun control and legal access to reproductive rights for women, including abortion, and he frequently denounces antisemitism. Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear endorsed Daniel Grossberg in his 2022 Kentucky House election. During the 2024 General Assembly, Grossberg helped organize a private screening for his colleagues, hosted by the Israeli government, to show gruesome footage of the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel. Grossberg, who is Jewish, is co-chairman of the legislatures bipartisan Kentucky-Israel Caucus. In that capacity, he also signed an open letter to the states university presidents urging them to condemn Hamas and support Israel in the ongoing war that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians, sparking U.S. campus protests and acts of antisemitism across the country. The basis of all universities is a pursuit of truth, and it is times like these that require moral clarity. Like the fight against ISIS, the fight against Hamas is a fight against evil, Grossberg wrote to the college presidents. Grossberg talked about antisemitism earlier in his political career, too. In 2015, he lost the Democratic primary for state treasurer and ended up fighting about a campaign debt with a Democratic political consultant, who told him, You are why people dont like Jews. The comments were taped, leaked to a news outlet and ended up fueling a defamation lawsuit between the two. In 2022, when Grossberg ran for the House against Burch in the Democratic primary, he loaned his own campaign $105,000. Burch sent out a campaign mailer warning voters: Dont let them buy our district, which Grossberg said was one of the most famous of the antisemitic tropes. In 2022, state Rep. Tom Burch sent campaign material accusing challenger Daniel Grossberg of trying to buy the election by loaning his own campaign more than $100,000. Grossberg said the mailer relied on antisemitic tropes. Burch lost. The more than two dozen bills that Grossberg filed during his one term so far often reflect popular progressive themes, such as raising the states minimum wage; adding campaign-finance restrictions; banning assault rifles; requiring a waiting period for gun purchases; extending hate crime protection to gender identity; and guaranteeing legal protection for in-vitro fertilization. Other Grossberg bills relate to his experience as a Louisville home investor. He has proposed new restrictions on roofers business practices; faster turn-around for the sale of tax-delinquent properties at master commissioner sales; allowing landlords to remove tenants if code enforcement requires repairs that exceed 12 months rent; and creating a state fund to purchase and rehabilitate abandoned homes. In 2011, Grossberg joined Semonin Realtors in Louisville as a sales associate. But his license expired on March 31, 2024, with no public record of discipline, according to the Kentucky Real Estate Commission. He owns several real estate investment companies that are in bad standing with the secretary of states office, pending dissolution, according to the offices website. Among them are Leviticus Homes LLC, LPV Investments LLC and TRF LLC, the last of which owns a couple of small rental homes in Louisvilles West End. Being a home investor has caused some headaches for Grossberg, according to lawsuits. Earlier this year, he sued a plumbing company, alleging it did shoddy work on one of his West End rental homes that got him in trouble with city property inspectors. In 2021, he sued his partner on a home purchase, rehabilitation and resale in Louisville, alleging the man still owed him nearly $10,000 in repair costs from the project. Apart from his current difficulties, Grossberg appears to be cruising to a second House term. In the Democratic primary for House District 30 in May, Grossberg defeated challenger Mitra Subedi by a mere 50 votes out of 3,208 cast. There is no Republican candidate, so he faces no opposition in the general election this fall. Replacement for Rep. Carl Anderton named in District 38B. Get to know him here. The Wicomico County Republican Central Committee announced Tuesday that a replacement was selected for the District 38B House of Delegates seat vacated by Carl Anderston. Barry Beauchamp, a lifelong resident of Wicomico County, was recommended for the post to Gov. Wes Moore and is expected to be confirmed this week. If approved, he will serve the remaining two years left in Anderton's term before running in the normal election cycle for the Maryland House of Delegates. "The Wicomico County Central Committee looks forward to Gov. Wes Moore's confirmation of Barry Beauchamp's appointment and is confident that Barry will continue to serve the community with the same dedication and integrity he has demonstrated throughout his life," the committee said in a statement. More on offshore wind Offshore wind energy: 'Major milestone reached in US Wind plan off Maryland In July, Anderton, who had served in the General Assembly since 2015 after four years as the mayor of Delmar, accepted a role as the director of Rural Economic Strategy, a newly created role within the Maryland Department of Commerce. Who is Barry Beauchamp? Beauchamp is the owner and CEO of Beauchamp Brothers Construction and has served for 25 years as a volunteer firefighter, EMT, engineer and assistant chief for the Salisbury Fire Department. He has also been a licensed real estate agent since 1987. This isn't his first foray into politics, as he was elected to the Wicomico County Republican Central Committee in 2022. Beauchamp was also appointed by Moore to the Maryland State Board of Onsite Wastewater Professionals. He also played a key role in the successful campaign of his wife, Susan Beauchamp, who won the District 3 seat for the Wicomico County Board of Education. During the 2022 election, he was a prominent fundraiser for several candidates. Beauchamp has two daughters and has four grandchildren. This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Get to know Wicomico resident tapped to fill rest of Anderton's term Tim Walz takes questions on speculation that he is under consideration as vice presidential running mate for Kamala Harris. Glen Stubbe/TNS via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris picked Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to be her vice presidential running mate, CNN and the Washington Post reported on Tuesday, citing unnamed sources. Walz beat out Josh Shapiro, the governor of Pennsylvania and Andy Beshear, the governor of Kentucky. Arizona Senator and former astronaut Mark Kelly was also in the mix for the number two job. The Harris-Walz Democratic ticket is set to face former Republican president Donald Trump and his vice presidential pick, JD Vance, in the November 5 contest for the White House. With three months to go, this is Harris' first major decision since becoming her centre-left party's candidate. President Joe Biden ended his flailing bid for re-election in July and passed the baton to Harris. Recent polls have shown the race between Harris and Trump is essentially neck and neck. WINCHESTER, Ky. (FOX 56) The Cartwright family in Winchester is finally whole again, with their beloved pet snake named Kia back in their arms. Last week, the Columbia red-tail boa constrictor busted out of its carrier outside and slithered straight into a sewer drain. Wes Cartwright says the search lasted five days. You go through those range of emotions of being so anxious and then when you finally found them, theres just this ultimate relief, Cartwright said. And so we got her home, and I gave her a big kiss. With the help of other community members, Cartwright said the sneaky snake was found on Sunday, two blocks away from their home, behind a house, and under a pile of wood. Now, she said they can go back to enjoying quality time together. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: When you think of a boa constrictor, it may seem pretty threatening at first, but Cartwright told FOX 56 that theres no need to worry with Kia because shes very tame and loves to be around people, especially his daughter Presley. Now there are some boas that get up to 1516 foot long that are wild, Cartwright added. Those are the ones you have to worry about. This size here wouldnt harm a child, much less try to eat a child. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources prohibits the ownership of certain exotic wildlife without permits, but boa constrictors do not require one. Cartwright noted that snakes are natural escape artists, but that theyll do everything they can to make sure Kia stays safe at home from now on. Read more of the latest Lexington & central Kentucky news You really have to make sure that every little part of their cage is either clamped down, or you have weights on top of it or you just have something thats secure because they are going to test everything you have to try to squeeze out of that enclosure, she said. Cartwright said Kia will be available for meet-and-greets at this years Daniel Boone Pioneer Festival in Winchester. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. Republicans attack Kamalas VP pick over his record on trans rights and George Floyd riots Being selected by Kamala Harris as a running mate is 'the honour of a lifetime', Tim Walz said - AP Click here to view this content. Kamala Harris unveiled Minnesota governor Tim Walz as her running mate on Tuesday, who was attacked by Republicans for his pro-trans policies and handling of riots following the killing of George Floyd. Ms Harris, 59, described herself and Mr Walz as the underdogs in the race to defeat Donald Trump as she introduced the Democratic vice-presidential candidate to supporters at a rally in Philadelphia. But she called the father of two former teacher, congressman and military veteran as a battle-tested leader who had delivered for working families. We are the underdogs in this race but we have the momentum, Ms Harris said. Mr Walz, 60, who cast himself as the product of a small town Midwestern farming community, said: I couldnt be prouder to be on this ticket. Trump and his running mate JD Vance were quick to frame Mr Walz as a dangerously liberal extremist. Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, was selected by Kamala Harris for his appeal among both progressives and moderates - Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters The former president, 78, claimed the vice-presidential candidate will unleash Hell on Earth, as he warned that Mr Walz was already pulling in millions of dollars in campaign donations for the Democrats. Mr Walz, a straight-talking Midwesterner, was selected by Ms Harris for his broad appeal among both progressives and moderates. But Republican officials have seized on Mr Walzs delivery of a slate of Left-wing priorities during his two terms as governor to paint him as a radical. Trump warned that Mr Walz was already 'pulling in millions' in Democratic Party campaign donations - Umit Bektas/Reuters They have honed in on his backing of legislation to turn Minnesota into a trans refuge state, including signing an executive order to protect access to gender-affirming health care. Mr Walz also signed a bill into law which requires public schools to stock period products in boys bathrooms. Republicans have criticised Mr Walzs handling of widespread riots and looting following the 2020 murder of George Floyd, a black man murdered by a white police officer in Minneapolis. Click here to view this content. Lack of name recognition However, Democrats most immediate challenge is his lack of name recognition, with less than three months until the election on Nov 5. A recent ABC News/Ipsos survey found nearly 9 in 10 American adults did not know enough to have an opinion about him. The most immediate challenge facing Mr Walz is his lack of name recognition - Steve Karnowski/AP Ms Harris selected Mr Walz over the Democratic establishments preferred pick, Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro, a rising star who enjoys broad popularity in the critical swing state. Progressives had fiercely lobbied against the 51-year-old Mr Shapiro over his staunch support for Israel. Mr Walz, meanwhile, had been enthusiastically backed by the partys Left flank, with endorsements from the Vermont senator Bernie Sanders and the New York congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Progressives lobbied against Josh Shapiro, the Pennsylvania governor, over his staunch support for Israel - Bastiaan Slabbers/Reuters However, his broad appeal is underscored by the fact that his selection was also celebrated by moderates. Joe Manchin, once the Democrats most conservative senator and now an independent, hailed Mr Walz as the real deal. I can think of no one better than Governor Walz to help bring our country closer together and bring balance back to the Democratic Party, he said. The pair remain the underdogs His selection was also hailed by both pro-Israel and pro-Palestine groups. However, Ms Harris has acknowledged that they remain the underdogs in the 2024 race against Trump and Mr Vance. She told her running mate their path to victory relied on winning over middle-class voters by focusing on the economy and abortion rights, according to CNN. Mr Walz has been backed by the Democratic Party's Left flank, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez - Anadolu Trump continues to lead in several polls of battleground states, but Ms Harris hopes Mr Walz will bolster her support in the critical blue wall states of Michigan and Wisconsin. The Trump campaign has targeted the Rust Belt and had even focused on Mr Walzs home state of Minnesota, once considered a reliably blue bastion in the Midwest. The selection of Mr Walz, a plain-speaking, denim-wearing bespectacled white man, is an acknowledgment the Democrats need to win back blue-collar voters in the American heartlands. Critical battleground states Mr Walzs experience both as governor and as a former Congressman, as well as his personal rapport with Ms Harris, were also critical to his selection, White House insiders said. Joe Biden said the pair were a powerful voice for working people and Americas great middle class. They will spend the next five days touring critical battleground states, visiting Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and Detroit on Wednesday and Phoenix and Las Vegas later in the week. Click here to view this content. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Republicans claim Kamala Harris was the U.S. Senates most liberal member. Is that true? Reality Check is a Bee series holding officials and organizations accountable and shining a light on their decisions. Have a tip? Email realitycheck@sacbee.com. Its been a favorite Republican claim for years: Kamala Harris was the Senates most liberal member. During her four years as a senator from California, Harris was always close to being the most liberal. In one of those years, 2019, she was listed as the most liberal of all senators. The contrast could not be more starkon the one hand, you have a Radical Left puppet candidate who is FAKE, FAKE, FAKE, and on the other hand, you have a president who will FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT for America, the Trump War Room, an arm of the campaign, tweeted last week. In fact, since leaving the Senate in January 2021 to become vice president, the 2024 Democratic presidential nominee has inched away from many of her more liberal positions. Yet the Republican drumbeat continues. Its a big part of the GOPs strategy to define the largely-unknown Harris to voters. Below, we fact-check some of the most frequently cited claims about Harris liberal record. Stay Informed On Election News Sign up here to get our Election 2024 newsletter, with local, state and national political news and analysis sent right to your inbox. The most liberal? Kamala Harris was the most liberal member of the United States Senate, said Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance last month. NOT ALWAYS TRUE. This often-repeated claim cites an analysis by GovTrack, an independent group that studies congressional voting records, which in rated Harris as the Senates most liberal member. It has since removed that page from its site. We determined that the limited data available in a single year was not sufficient to create a reliable portrait of the activity of legislators, particularly given the ebbs and flows of the legislative calendar, and therefore did not serve as a useful tool to our users and the American public, said Joshua Tauberer, GovTrack founder. GovTrack has a page on Harris that compares her ideological record to others, and other data remain on the site. In the Congress that ran from 2017 to 2019, she was rated the fourth most liberal senator. In the next Congress, from 2019 to 2021, she was rated second most liberal, behind Sen. Bernie Sanders, Ind.-Vt.. GovTrack explains that its ideology analysis assigns a score to Members of Congress according to their legislative behavior by whether they sponsor and cosponsor overlapping sets of bills and resolutions with other Members of Congress. It also noted that the score only takes into account a small aspect of reality, and says keep in mind that there are many important aspects of being a legislator besides what can be measured, such as constituent services and performing oversight of the executive branch, which arent reflected here. End private health insurance? She wants to outlaw private health insurance, Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump said last month at a conservative conference in Florida. TRUE at the start of her Senate career. Harris enthusiastically supported Sanders Medicare for All plan in 2017, which would have all but ended private insurance. The Sanders initiative went nowhere. Harris backed away in 2019 during her presidential run, saying she would support a plan that included private insurance so people could have supplemental insurance. We will allow private insurers to offer Medicare plans as a part of this system that adhere to strict Medicare requirements on costs and benefits, she wrote on the Medium web site. Abolish Immigration and Customs Enforcement? Lyin Kamala supported abolishing ICE, said Trump at a rally in Charlotte last month. NOT TRUE. In 2018, Harris was sympathetic to liberal thinking about how to deal with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. Some liberals wanted ICE, which enforces immigration policy, abolished. But Harris didnt go that far. She told MSNBC in 2018 that I think there is no question that weve got to critically reexamine ICE and its role and the way it is being administered and the work it is doing. And we need to probably even think about starting from scratch because theres a lot that is wrong with the way that it is conducting itself and we need to deal with that, she said. Harris and Biden The Harris campaign counters that she has been a strong supporter of Biden administration proposals on health care, immigration and other incendiary issues positions that barely resemble her views years ago. They also argue that she has a record of being tough on crime and border protection, citing her years as San Francisco district attorney and California attorney general. Democrats are also already making the election about a prosecutor versus someone convicted of felonies, said Christian Grose, academic director of the USC Schwarzenegger Center. But Republicans see a way to define Harris, whose political image is still being shaped in voters minds, and theyre hammering away. As financial markets reeled Monday, Trump warned Harris liberal ways would mean a Kamala Crash!!!. Markets will NEVER accept the radical left lunatic that DESTROYED San Francisco and California, as a whole, he wrote on his Truth Social site. How the Trump campaign plans to try to define Tim Walz Donald Trumps campaign is already setting out to define Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as someone who will move the Democratic presidential ticket to the left with a key focus on his record, senior Trump campaign advisers and people close to the former president told CNN. Trumps team spent the last several days compiling opposition research on Walz, in addition to other leading contenders to be Vice President Kamala Harris running mate. His advisers say that while they will pull on details from his 12 years in Congress, their goal is to paint Walz a former teacher and Army National Guard veteran as someone who has been in lockstep with progressives over the last four years and a key champion of the Biden administrations policies. She found a 60-year-old White guy who has the same crazy ideas she does, one of the advisers said. With both [Harris] and Walz, youre going to have multiple years of various records to go through, but the bottom line is, where has he been for the last four years? The last four years are what matter most. The Trump campaign, which has struggled over the last several weeks to find lines of attack that best work against Harris, said the Walz pick presents a new opportunity for them to reimagine their campaign playbook against her. Key focal points in their expected attacks include arguing Walz has taken a liberal stance on the border, painting him as anti-gun and anti-cop, tying him to Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omar, linking him to the Biden administrations economic policies and questioning his record on foreign policy. In Congress, Walzs position on gun rights earned him backing from the National Rifle Association. But hes since fallen out of favor with the gun lobby over his support for gun safety actions as governor. Even before Harris formally announced Walz as her running mate, the Trump campaign had begun crafting a narrative around her decision. On social media, the campaign and pro-Trump super PAC, MAGA Inc., immediately started pushing some of the research it had been gathering on Walz while it prepared for Harris announcement, calling him an incompetent liberal. However, Walz in Congress was widely viewed as more of a moderate Democrat, having voted to strengthen the border, calling for deficit reductions and voting with Republicans against the bailout for big banks after the 2008 financial crisis. As governor, he also signed a series of bipartisan bills though the Trump campaign plans to focus more heavily on his more progressive measures, such as enshrining the right to abortion and gender-affirming care in Minnesota, as well as establishing universal gun background checks and signing a law to make 100% of the states electricity clean by 2040. Harris campaign spokesman Michael Tyler pushed back on the Trump campaigns attacks, saying in a statement to CNN: In picking Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, Vice President Harris has not only selected a veteran, a teacher, a football coach, and a public servant to be her governing partner, she has also cemented the fundamental contrast in this race between the Harris-Walz ticket which is fighting for working families and the Trump-Vance Project 2025 agenda that would unleash harm on Americans across the country. Tyler added that Harris and Walz will be pushing a message of unity over the next three months, with a focus on building up the middle class instead of cutting taxes for the rich, and fighting for our fundamental freedoms, including reproductive freedom. The Trump campaign also plans to lean heavily into Harris decision not to pick Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro even as Trumps advisers and many people close to the former president privately acknowledge they were more concerned about Shapiro being on the ticket given the importance of winning his battleground state, the sources said. Trumps team plans to argue that Harris listened to far-left voices who were concerned about how Shapiro, who is Jewish, would handle the Israel-Hamas war. While both Walz and Shapiro have been defenders of Israel, the Pennsylvania governor had been attacked by some on the left for his comments about the tone of some college protests. Trump allies are breathing a sigh of relief that Harris didnt pick Shapiro, with one source close to Trump saying that Pennsylvania is still definitely up for grabs, following Walzs selection. While Trump has repeatedly said that vice presidential candidates dont matter, both he and his running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, had zeroed in on Shapiro in their attacks in recent weeks, an indication of the threat that Shapiro could have posed to the Harris campaign. Vance test drove some of the new attacks on Walz during a visit to Philadelphia on Tuesday the first leg of a multi-stop tour of the 2024 battlegrounds this week. He claimed Harris decision highlights how radical Kamala Harris is. Vance also told CNNs Kristen Holmes that he wants to debate Walz, but only after the governor becomes the Democratic vice presidential nominee. Democrats are in the final stages of officially nominating Harris as their presidential candidate after the virtual roll call vote concluded Monday. Under party rules, a separate vote to confirm Walz as the vice presidential candidate is not required. Another messaging line the Trump campaign plans to home in on is Walzs handling of civil unrest in the aftermath of the police killing George Floyd in Minneapolis. Vance on Tuesday told reporters that Harris and Walz make an interesting tag team because of course, Tim Walz allowed rioters to burn down Minneapolis in the summer of 2020. Even before Harris selected Walz, Trump had begun issuing such attacks against the governor on the subject. Every voter in Minnesota needs to know that when the violent mobs of anarchists and looters and Marxists came to burn down Minneapolis four years agoRemember me? I couldnt get your governor to act, Trump told the crowd at his rally in St. Cloud, Minnesota, last month, before falsely claiming that he, not Walz, activated the National Guard in response to the protests. Its a reprisal of his 2020 claim that he got the Guard deployed over the objections of the states Democratic leaders. I sent in the National Guard to save Minneapolis, while Kamala Harris sided with the arsonist and rioters and raise money to bail out the criminals, Trump said. Walz who served in the Army National Guard for 24 years was the one who deployed the Minnesota National Guard, first activating it on May 28, more than seven hours before Trump publicly threatened to deploy the Guard himself. Walzs office said at the time that the governor activated the Guard in response to requests from officials in Minneapolis and St. Paul cities run by Democrats. As for Trumps claims that Harris bailed out Minnesota criminals, he was referencing a 2020 tweet in which Harris encouraged donations to a fund that received support to bail out protesters of Floyds death. The Minnesota Freedom Fund is one of several US charities dedicated to helping low-income defendants post bail that boomed in the aftermath of Floyds killing. However, the fund, in addition to other charitable bail groups, later came under scrutiny after some defendants they bailed out were later arrested again for alleged acts of violent crime. Trump campaigns messaging blitz in action Just moments after CNN and other outlets began reporting that Harris had selected Walz, the Trump campaign sent out fundraising appeals painting the Minnesota governor as someone who would be the worst VP in history. TIM WALZ WILL UNLEASH HELL ON EARTH! Hes already pulling in MILLIONS to WIPE MAGA OUT, one fundraising text read. Trump himself posted about Harris selection later Tuesday, writing on Truth Social that the vice president and Walz are the most Radical Left duo in American history. The campaign on Tuesday also released a new video, which it billed the first reaction ad to the pick, in which the narrator claims Walz will be a rubber stamp for Kamalas dangerously liberal agenda. Kamala Harris and Tim Walz: theyre failed, weak, and dangerously liberal, the narrator says. The video, which has already been pushed on social media, is expected to be part of an upcoming ad buy, a Trump campaign source told CNN, though they did not provide details on where or when it would air. Linking Walz to Bernie Sanders Congressional Republicans moved to label Walz who represented a conservative-leaning rural district in the House that, both before and after his tenure, has been mostly dominated by Republicans as radical. In particular, they focused on Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders support for Walz and the governors handling of the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020. Kamala Harris selection of Tim Walz as her running mate confirms that the Democrat Party will anoint the most radical Far Left-wing ticket in history, House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik declared in a statement. To the American people: If you had any doubt that Kamala Harris is deeply liberal, look no further than the fact that her VP pick was endorsed by Bernie Sanders, South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham said. Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst echoed that message, calling Walz Bernie Sanders choice for VP. This headline and story have been updated with additional information. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Updated An early look at new special education datasets reveals massive inconsistencies in how many children states are identifying as needing services, how much is being spent on them and whether that funding is tied to better outcomes, according to Marguerite Roza, director of Georgetown Universitys Edunomics Lab. Preliminary though the research is, even the broad takeaways are especially timely, Roza recently told a group of policymakers, educators and journalists. The number of students with disabilities has risen dramatically over the last decade, as has the share of school budgets dedicated to paying for special education. Historically, our tendency has been to look the other way on special ed spending, she said. It hasnt gotten the same scrutiny [as] other elements in the district budget. Get stories like these delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter One immediate takeaway is that states that provide sound literacy instruction for all students also post better reading scores for special education students, Roza noted. Case in point: Mississippi, where recent, dramatic gains in literacy have been credited to a 10-year push by state officials to ensure evidence-based reading instruction is taking place in every classroom. Mississippi is one of two states that dedicated the smallest portion of its education budget some 8% to meeting the needs of special education students, yet it is one of four where children with disabilities perform the highest on the reading portion of the National Assessment of Educational Progress. By contrast, Connecticut spends nearly 22% of its education budget on special education but has middle-of-the-pack reading performance among students with disabilities. More than half of the states third graders are reading below grade level, and a new law requiring science-based literacy instruction will not be fully implemented until 2025. This finding is particularly important because the most common special education diagnosis, specific learning disability, includes children who are dyslexic or who have other neurological differences that interfere with their ability to process language or do math. More than a third of students receiving services fall into this category. High-quality core literacy instruction could mean fewer students who need an individualized education program a federally mandated plan that spells out how a child with a disability will be served. Other research has shown that struggling readers whose needs are identified early are less likely to need intensive support in later grades. In the 2019-20 school year, the National Center for Education Statistics, part of the U.S. Department of Educations research arm, began collecting data compiled by states on district-level special education spending. A number of states have yet to provide any information, but Edunomics researchers were able to combine the first two years of information with existing records to begin building an overview. Between the 2013-14 and 2022-23 school years, the number of children in special education rose from 6.5 million to 7.5 million, even as public school enrollment fell by more than 400,000. In four Northeastern states New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Maine 1 in 5 students now have an individualized education program, or IEP, while in 11 states, 13% or fewer receive services. Related Washington State Schools Missed 8,500 Kids for Special Ed Referrals During COVID From state to state, diagnoses are wildly inconsistent, raising questions about the subjectivity of how students are funneled into special ed. New Mexico, for example, diagnoses specific learning disabilities in 8% of students, versus less than 3% in Kentucky and Idaho. However, despite identifying a high number of children with learning disorders, New Mexico has some of the lowest literacy rates among special education students in the country. New York refers almost three times as many children for speech and language services as Vermont and Maryland. Students in Maine are more than three times as likely to be categorized as other health impairment a diagnosis category that includes ADHD as pupils in Montana, Nevada and Utah. States also vary wildly in how many special education staffers schools employ, with Ohio and Idaho having less than 20 per 200 students. Hawaii, New York and New Hampshire have three times as many. Yet Hawaii significantly underperforms national averages. The data also raise questions about the quality of staff delivering services and inequities in how teachers are assigned to schools. Since 2007, the number of special education teachers has risen by 12%, while the number of specialists and paraprofessionals has jumped by 35% and 37%, respectively. One reason higher staffing levels dont necessarily correlate to better student outcomes could be that instruction is being delivered by paraprofessionals often low-skilled, entry-level staff and not special education teachers. Related Desperate to Hire Special Ed Teachers? Try Looking in Regular Ed Classrooms The data also suggest that the perennial shortage of special educators contributes to inequities in which kids get the most qualified instructors. In Massachusetts which Edunomics researchers praised for its unusually transparent spending reports low-poverty schools have higher numbers of licensed special educators. High-poverty schools have fewer teachers and far more paraprofessionals. Districts often cite federal maintenance-of-effort laws, which put strict guardrails on attempts to lower special education spending, as a reason why they dont scrutinize the cost-effectiveness of their services. While some of these assumptions are incorrect, more legal flexibility would help, said Roza. Disclosure: The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Walton Family Foundation provide financial support to Edunomics Lab and The 74. To appease critics, including Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon, who reportedly called the white glamping structures "pimples on the landscape," operators have camouflaged the white domes with green netting. They sit on a section of school trust land near Teton Village where state regulators also have OK'd a commercial incinerator that's drawn fire. (Angus M. Thuermer Jr./WyoFile) This story was originally published by WyoFile on Aug. 8, 2024. Teton County residents have opened an additional front in their fight with Wyoming officials regarding development of state school trust land near Teton Village, this time challenging the approval of a commercial incinerator that opponents claim poses a grave health, fire and economic risk to locals. Wyoming has permitted the tree-service company Arbor Works to operate an air curtain burner on a parcel of state land near the resort village and southern boundary of Grand Teton National Park. Two community organizations say the operation is a health and fire hazard that violates state and federal rules, including elements of the federal Clean Air Act. Operating the burner will create considerable health and fire risk if the machine is used as the permit currently allows, Jenny Fitzgerald, executive director of the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance, wrote WyoFile in an email. There is no enforceable regulation of how this machine is operated and the fire risk and air quality can have significant to life changing effects on our community, if used as permitted. The Alliance and The Teton Village Association have appealed the permit Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality issued to Arbor Works and the case is scheduled to be argued in a quasi-judicial hearing before the states Environmental Quality Council from Oct. 23-25. An air curtain burner blows air through an incinerator or firebox to reduce pollutants that would be emitted if the flames were not fanned. The burner is an open top box, according to the complaint filed by the two groups. DEQ failed to issue a legal and enforceable permit, the appeal claims. It alleges the agency didnt ensure the operation would be safe and approved the permit without analyzing the proper data. It further asserts DEQ failed to address public comments or ensure the burner would be located as required by the Wyoming Board of Land Commissioners who authorized development of the school land. Trust, but regulate [We] would like to trust the good faith of the owners and staff of Arbor Works, who are all well respected community members, the Alliances Fitzgerald wrote WyoFile. Yet, we recognize they are human and small errors in the unregulated operation can have very detrimental effects to Teton Village and surrounding neighborhoods. There are no limits as to when the burner could operate, the groups say, including when high winds blow. Arbor Works declined to comment to WyoFile about the issue. The DEQs permit is not enforceable meaning there are no penalties or other recourse available to the state or residents if the incinerator departs from the agreed terms and missing data precluded the agency from making a rational permitting decision, the appeal claims. The DEQ permit doesnt reflect the conditions land commissioners imposed on Arbor Works, the groups say, and the DEQ didnt give the public a proper opportunity to comment and brushed off concerns that were expressed. Attorneys Eric Waeckerlin and Affie Ellis represent the two Teton community groups. The burner will degrade air quality, views of the natural surroundings, and will pose a significant fire risk, all of which present imminent threats to the environment, the Conservation Alliance states in the appeal. The Village association repeats those claims, saying the effects also threaten resort area business. The incinerator is only one development Teton County residents are contesting on the Teton Village school section. The Teton County government wants to inspect a glamping development for compliance with local construction codes, but Wyoming sued the county to block those inspections. Teton county claims the State Board of Land Commissioners wrongly approved the tent-like domes. The case is now in front of the Wyoming Supreme Court. The overarching issue is the weight local-government regulations and local-resident voices carry in such state decisions, a concern once centered in Teton County but increasingly raised statewide as Sen. Mike Gierau, D-Jackson, warned in 2022. This problem is going to come to your door, he said when legislators targeted wealthy Teton County as a place to maximize income from school trust land. [The Office of State Lands and Investments] is going to be faced with folks coming in wanting to do leases in front of grazing permits, in front of ranch operations. Coming soon near you? Gieraus prediction has come true in Casper, for example, where residents were surprised and upset to learn that land commissioners approved a gravel mine on school trust land near their homes. The public outcry prompted a legislative committee last week to set aside a draft bill that would have made it easier to fast track even more such operations. Residents in other counties also have been heard. The land commissioners Gov. Mark Gordon, Secretary of State Chuck Gray, Treasurer Curt Meier, Auditor Kristi Racines and Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder in April rejected the proposed and unpopular Columbus Peak land exchange near Dayton. The fight over the incinerator and glamping installation continues with yet another group Citizens for the Responsible Use of State Lands challenging the tent-hotel in Teton Countys district court. Protect our Waters Jackson Hole is also appealing a DEQ decision regarding sewage disposal at the glamping site. Yet Teton Countys commission chair Luther Propst hopes state politicians are changing lanes. Land commissioners voted 5-0, Thursday to prevent development on another 640 acre school section in Teton County this one south of Wilson on Munger Mountain. Teton County will lease it from the state for 35 years for wildlife conservation and recreation and pay $75,000 annually. Three local groups the Jackson Hole Land Trust, Friends of Pathways and Friends of Munger Mountain organized and lobbied for the relatively novel type of lease. Propst hailed the gratifying Munger Mountain vote as a new page in state-county relations. It shows the state and county can work together to benefit public education, wildlife and recreational access in Teton County, he said. It pioneers a good example of how cooperation between the state and county benefits everyone. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Dustin Thornton has been familiar with Linden Avenue his whole life. His grandfather used to own a house on the street, but Thornton took over that property and lives there with his family. Now the property he loves and takes care of could have a 15-foot wide road going alongside it. We want to fight to protect our yard, obviously. We want to protect our street, our neighborhood, and now that were realizing that none of this adds up, we dont want anything to happen here, said Thorton. Families raise safety concerns over potential rezoning in Millcreek This 15-foot area could potentially be the future site of an access road on Linden Avenue, and some neighbors said that could increase traffic and make it more dangerous for kids playing in the neighborhood. The riding of the bike would stop. Shes not riding her bike in the street anymore. Its going to be two feet from where we sleep, from our house, and people are going to be driving right through our yard, said Janette Dougan, a Linden Avenue Resident. Their daughter had just recently received the privilege of riding her bike on the street by herself. How would you feel if you werent able to ride your bike anymore? asked JET 24/FOX 66 reporter Tyler Gallagher. Really, really, really mad. I like having that privilege, replied Kennedy, Dustin and Janettes daughter. Ainsworth Field aims to house games in near future after receiving renovations Dougan and her next-door neighbor both have children who play near the proposed access road, and they are worried for their childrens safety with more traffic being brought to Linden Avenue. At our home, we have three children seven and under seven, five and two, who will be playing, living, sleeping, existing just a mere seven feet from where this proposed road would be, said Nicole Phearsdorf, another Linden Avenue Resident. Although the developer said luxury townhomes will be the connector with Linden Avenue, neighbors said the zoning request does not offer a formal plan and theyre worried the property could be used for something different. Millcreek Township will have a planning commission meeting Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. which many Linden Avenue residents are planning to attend. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. The UKs competition watchdog has provisionally approved T&L Sugars proposed acquisition of Tereos UK assets. Today (6 August), the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) provisionally found that, without the deal going ahead, the most likely outcome is that Tereos UK retail business would close, according to a statement. It added: Since closure would also result in a loss of competition absent the merger, the panel has provisionally decided to clear the deal. The transaction had been under a Phase 2 investigation by the CMA after identifying competition concerns during its Phase 1 investigation. Following the first phase, the anti-trust body found that the deal showed risks of inflated sugar prices for UK consumers, and a substantial lessening of competition. Richard Feasey, chair of the independent inquiry group carrying out the second phase investigation, said today: We have carefully considered a broad range of evidence, including detailed examination of the financial performance of Tereos UK retail business, and the steps taken by Tereos to improve its performance. Based on this evidence, we have provisionally found that the most likely outcome is that Tereos UK retail business would have closed, absent the deal with TLS and on this basis we have provisionally decided to approve the merger. The anti-trust body said it found that Tereos UK retail business has been loss making over a sustained period of time, despite a wide range of efforts by Tereos to improve its financial performance. It concluded there was no other alternative and less anti-competitive purchaser for the business, besides TLS. Feasey added that the CMA is welcoming feedback on its provisional findings before making a final decision on 5 September. Tereos UK and Ireland unit packs and distributes Whitworths branded and private-label sugar in Normanton, West Yorkshire. T&L Sugars, owned by ASR Group International, manufactures a portfolio of sugar and sweetener products under the Tate and Lyle name as well as own-label goods at its London headquarters. It sells to UK supermarkets, grocery wholesalers and foodservice operators. "UK regulator provisionally green lights T&L Sugars move for Tereos" was originally created and published by Just Food, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Lucy White weathered Debby nearly unscathed until Manatee County released water from Lake Manatee on Monday. She is among many residents whose homes were inundated by water from the release. "You should see the water in my house," White said. "It's mud. It's brown. It's brackish water coming through the pasture. It's really disgusting. Our horses are standing out there in knee-deep water, their barns are underwater, and my whole downstairs is destroyed. All of the furniture, the cabinets, everything because when they open that dam, it comes in so fast you can't do anything to save it." County officials and other authorities gathered Tuesday for a news conference, where they reported widespread flooding throughout the county as a result of Tropical Storm Debby. The storm dropped so much rain in the area that water had to be released from Lake Manatee on Monday with short notice. Manatee County officials say that the water release was necessary because Debby caused water levels to rise two feet in 11 hours, and that water levels were indeed lowered in advance of the storm despite frustrations from flooded residents. White says officials should have learned from the past and released water from the lake in advance of the storm. She has lived in Parrish for nearly 30 years, but she has only experienced flooding like Debby once before in 2001 when Manatee County also released water from the dam as a result of Tropical Storm Gabrielle. "Everybody on my road has a similar story," she said. "My friend had to shut her air conditioner off, her barn is underwater. The neighbors behind her, their whole house is surrounded by water. A lady friend up the road, she was evacuated out. They made a hell of a mess for everyone." More: Bullseye: Sarasota, Bradenton area deluged, again and again by Debby, as totals vary Also: Hurricane Debby: Storm batters Manatee County, Bradenton area as dozens rescued from homes Lake Manatee rose 2 feet in 11 hours during Tropical Storm Debby Manatee County officials say the water release was necessary because Debby caused water levels to rise two feet in 11 hours, and that water levels were indeed lowered in advance of the storm. "Water had been released from the dam since last week," Manatee County spokesman Bill Logan told the Herald-Tribune on Tuesday morning. "In fact, the lake was lowered to about 36 feet in advance of the storm." The lake is considered full at 40 feet of water, but it is lowered to 38 feet during rainy seasons. The county lowered water levels further to 36 feet of water in advance of Debby, but it was not enough. The lake's water level peaked at just under 42 feet after heavy rainfall throughout Sunday. The top of the dam varies between 52 to 55 feet. More: Live Updates: Manatee and Myakka rivers above flood stage due to Tropical Storm Debby "Yesterday at 8 p.m. the dam was at 38.17 feet," Logan said. "As of now, the dam level is at 40.65 feet." Residents impacted by the water release now criticize decision makers for not lowering the water further, and for waiting until the release was imminent to notify the public. During a news conference held Tuesday morning, Manatee County Chairman Mike Rahn said the county alerted the public as early as possible. "I think our team did a very good job of sending that information out to everyone that we could get it out to," Rahn said. "There may be some residents that didn't see it, didn't hear it, or didn't look on any of the social media that we sent it out on. Our public information team does a phenomenal job of getting this information out as fast as we can. This event happened very quickly, it happened very suddenly." Long road ahead for impacted residents in Manatee County Tropical Storm Debby's floodwater crosses the threshold of Lucy White's home in Parrish, in a community inundated after Manatee County released stormwater from Lake Manatee in response to the storm. White found out her home was about to be flooded by Manatee County from a post by one of her neighbors on a social media community page. Even the advance notice is too short for White. She and her husband are now in their 70s, and they keep six horses on their 12-acre property in Parrish. "My husband and I are in our 70's, we're raising our grandkids they are 8 and 9 years old," White said. "Of course, they think this is big fun. But when you get a half an hour's notice, I can't haul six horses out of here. I have no place to take them." "It was fine until they opened that dam, we would have been okay," she said. "Fortunately we have a 2-story house so we are upstairs. In the kitchen, it's 18 inches of water. Everything is ruined. There is 14 or 15 inches of water in the main part of the house so everything will have to be replaced. The floor is already buckling." It's not the first time the county has released water from the dam to the detriment of residents. White remembers a similar experience nearly 23 years ago when Tropical Storm Gabrielle had a widespread impact on Florida and dropped over 15 feet of rain in Parrish in September 2001. "They did this to us in 2001 right after we had a little Gabrielle storm right after Sept. 11 and we had the whole house flooded," she said. "There was no call for it, they could let that water out ahead of time. Why wait until after we get 14 inches of rain and then open it up?" "I was supposed to be school shopping. Now I'm house shopping." Jill Sauchinitz was working from home through the storm, but from one meeting to the next, minor street flooding turned into a flooded home soon after Manatee County released water from Lake Manatee even though her home is as far south as Lakewood Ranch. "Around 10 o'clock, I looked out the front door window and I noticed that the road had some minor flooding," Saucinitz told the Herald-Tribune Tuesday. "You could still see the pavement in the middle of the road. I went to a work meeting and when I got done with that about 11:30 a.m. I noticed water on the floor. I opened up my garage door and water came rushing in all the way to the entry to my house." "Before we knew it my entire house was filled with water up to my ankles, we couldn't stop it," she said. "We called the fire department to be rescued. There was about four feet of water, maybe higher, because they had this huge military-grade truck come to pick us up. It was awful." Sauchinitz said it took about an hour and a half on Monday for her mild experience during Tropical Storm Debby to turn into a disaster. "Within an hour and a half, my entire house, my neighbors, every one of us flooded so fast," Sauchinitz said. "We feel this is a man-made catastrophe, millions of dollars worth of damage." "I just had a restoration company at my house, over $100,000 worth of damage," she said. "My floors, my walls, my cabinets. I'm shocked. I'm devastated. I am sad. I am mad. My kids start school next week. We have no place to live. I was supposed to be school shopping. Now I'm house shopping." This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Lake Manatee water release flooded local neighborhoods during Debby Residents of Hilton Head area see downed trees, washed-out roads and damage from Debby As potentially record-breaking rainfall picked up in Beaufort County overnight, firefighters and law enforcement responded to hundreds of calls related to Tropical Storm Debby. Flooding is widespread in several areas, but no major injuries were reported as of Tuesday morning. Officials continue to urge residents to stay home if possible but if you are venturing out, avoid these areas. To share photos of storm damage or advise our reporters about flooded or dangerous areas, email newsroom@islandpacket.com after reporting conditions to the proper authorities. Hilton Head Dunnagans Alley: The roadway parallel to U.S. 278 experienced flooding Monday night but was driveable as of Tuesday morning, according to Joheida Fister, a spokesperson for Hilton Head Fire Rescue. Michael Miller and his two children walk on Bay Pines Drive on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. His house isnt flooded, but the people in home theyre standing in front of evacuated yesterday. Our home is sitting up higher than these guys, Miller said. A large buildup of water atop the BP gas station near the Hilton Head bridges caused the roof to collapse. No one was inside at the time and no injuries were reported, according to Stephen Combs, a spokesperson for the Bluffton Township Fire District. At the BP gas station just west of the Hilton Head bridges, a large accumulation of rainfall from Tropical Storm Debby caused the buildings roof to cave in. No one was inside the building at the time, according to the Bluffton Township Fire District. As of Tuesday morning, officials were not sure what time the roof had collapsed. The minimart was constructed in 1984 and was well-known by travelers as the final landmark before crossing over to the island. Bluffton U.S. 278/S.C. 170 interchange: The on-ramp from S.C. 170 (Okatie Highway) to U.S. 278 (Fording Island Road) remained closed as of 10:30 a.m. Tuesday as rainwater continued to pool onto the often-flooded interchange. The on-ramp from S.C. 170 to U.S. 278 closed Monday evening and remained blocked off Tuesday morning as rainwater from Tropical Storm Debby continued to gather in the area. The Farm at Buckwalter: The low-lying neighborhood in southern Bluffton has been the epicenter of flood-related calls, according to Combs. Police are asking residents to stay home as multiple portions of the community, especially near its center, are blanketed in water: Mill Pond Road Old Bridge Drive Cattle Run Way A photo taken on Cattle Run Way in The Farm at Buckwalter, a large neighborhood of townhomes in southern Bluffton, shows the roadway blanketed with water as Tropical Storm Debby continued its deluge in the Beaufort County area. Floodwater had entered several houses in The Farm as of Tuesday morning, Combs said, partly because cars moving through the water were creating waves and pushing it farther up. He urged residents to avoid driving or walking in floodwater for the safety of themselves and others. Floodwaters reached over sidewalks and halfway up roadside fences in The Farm at Buckwalter, a low-lying community in southern Bluffton. A photo taken Tuesday morning at the intersection of Old Bridge Drive and Mill Pond Road shows the extent of the neighborhoods flooding as Tropical Storm Debby continued to bring huge amounts of rain to the Beaufort County area. Bluffton Park: Avoid Red Cedar Street, 3rd Avenue and 4th Avenue. A nearby lagoon has begun to spill over into the street, according to Bluffton police. Officials in Bluffton were reporting no major injuries as of Tuesday morning, according to Combs. Even when a car hydroplaned into a retention pond in the Hampton Hall community Monday night, the driver escaped safely. Port Royal Castle Rock Road: Authorities had closed portions of the roadway east of its intersection with S.C. 170, a commonly flooded area. Abberly Pointe Apartment Homes: Entrance not accessible Tuesday morning due to flooding Firefighters in Port Royal responded to a dozen storm-related calls overnight, including one fallen tree that brought minor damage to a home but did not displace residents, according to spokesperson Assistant Chief Ross Vezin. A fallen tree atop a golf cart at a home on Old Shell Road in Port Royal, South Carolina, on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Unincorporated Beaufort County Trask Parkway (U.S. 21) at Keans Neck Road: Reduced to one lane northbound and one lane southbound due to flooding Trask Parkway near the Marine Corps Air Station: Likely to flood, according to the Beaufort County Sheriffs Office Burton Wells Road at Middleton Recreation Drive: Intersection flooded Broad River Boulevard near Lamon Drive: Blocked due to downed power lines as of 10 a.m. Tuesday Kinlock Road: Portions of the roadway are flooded Paige Point Road: Multiple downed trees reported Jasper County The Jasper County Sheriffs Office urged drivers to avoid the following areas due to flooding: I-95 Exit 22 ramps I-95 Exit 33 ramps West Frontage Road Rice Shire Road between Bees Creek Road and Coosaw Scenic Drive Coosaw Scenic Drive north of Salzburg Landing Road Bees Creek Road between Rice Shire Road and Kyle Lane Langfordville Road: Ridgeland resident George Tallmage reported a large washout near the back roads intersection with Firetower Road, about two miles off of U.S. 278. A rush of floodwater created a washout in northern Jasper County on Langfordville Road, east of its intersection with State Road S-27-87 (Firetower Road). In Hardeeville, police are reporting flooding in the following areas: Walsh Drive The McTeer area John Smith Road near Highway 17 Deerfield Village Moorer Avenue/Burke Street Foster Bell estimates hes lived across from Horace S. Norton Elementary School for close to 40 years. Often, the 80-year-old would sit outside watching the trees that obscured the school where all eight of his children went. The tree he enjoyed looking at the most had beautiful flowers, with leaves that hung down like string beans. Now, theres barely a stump marking where it stood. In our neighborhood, they tear down, he said. They dont build too much, but they tear down. Crews began preparing to demolish the vacant school last month, almost two decades after the Gary Community Schools Corporation closed it. The move has been bittersweet for neighbors and former students, who lovingly remember the former schools history but look forward to the opportunities its razing could hold for the future. Nortons location on Harrison Boulevard falls near the 11th Avenue corridor, an area thats being poised for revitalization, according to Garys redevelopment director, Christopher Harris. By clearing away the school, a pathway is created for that land to be utilized in other ways. This is something that Harris is expecting to occur as development gains its synergy and momentum along the Broadway corridor and along the greater downtown area. And the schools demolition isnt happening in a vacuum, either. This year, blight removal took place in the Aetna neighborhood, plans to redesign the historic Palace Theatre are in the works, and a collaboration between the city and the University of Notre Dames architecture school was recently announced. That partnership will see the creation of a downtown revitalization plan that developers can follow. While the city doesnt own Norton, both city leaders and GCSC officials were aligned on the schools need to be torn down. An expected end date for the demolition was not shared by GCSC. Capital B Gary was also told by a district representative that there are no current plans for the lot where Norton sits. No comment was given on whether the district plans to sell the land. At a July 24 redevelopment commission meeting, Harris called the present an exciting time for the city. I think that any major blighted structure thats removed is a weight and a burden off of the surrounding community, he said during an interview with Capital B Gary, though he acknowledged the sentimental value of closed schools can make demolition more emotional. Since its closure in 2006, the Norton Elementary School site has been the site of vandalism, fires and more. (Javonte Anderson/Capital B) Its also heartbreaking, but in an effort for us to be able to move forward and recalibrate our city, some of these decisions [are] going to be made. Nortons origins Gary was a rapidly growing but heavily segregated town in the first half of the 20th century. One of its few pockets of integration was at the K-12 Froebel School, which was heralded for its progressiveness although the Black students, who made up nearly half of its population by the 1940s, werent treated equitably. As more Black residents moved to the area around Froebel, the school began to suffer from severe overcrowding, underfunding, and neglect, according to a parents account in the Indiana Magazine of History. Frustrated with Froebels conditions, members of its parent teacher association aided by nearby PTAs campaigned to establish an elementary school at Norton Park during the late 1950s. The park at the time represented a boundary separating a predominantly Black neighborhood from a largely white one. When brought to school district leaders, parents were met with resistance and told itd be unthinkable to build there for a host of reasons, including the existence of a small school for children with physical disabilities. But, the parents didnt give up. They proposed those students also attend the new school they were fighting for, and asked that ramps and therapeutic pools be provided. Within that mix of parents was Kay Spencers mother. The 76-year-old Gary resident lives near Norton and remembered collecting signatures to garner support for building Norton as a young Girl Scout. Petitions, like the one Spencer took around, proved that there was widespread approval from Black and white residents alike. By the 1960s, the school was built and Spencer said half of it was designated for children with disabilities, which one of her younger sisters benefited from. Norton was an exceptionally good school, she said on a recent afternoon. In the background, one could see the school she and her mother played a part in getting made. Soon she will see it come down, too. Next steps Spencer and other residents interviewed by Capital B Gary are uncertain about what will become of the land once Norton is gone, but all agreed they were glad to no longer have to witness its deterioration. From 1967 to 1971, Jeanetta White attended an elementary school that was full of love, where kids were nurtured by caring adults. Todays building, with its broken windows and tagged walls, doesnt bring to mind the place with summer recreation offerings and pizza days. Thats not the Norton I know, she said. Since its closure in 2006, the school has been the site of vandalism and fires. And tragedy struck when a womans body was found in 2019. Calls to deal with the vacant property increased after the discovery. The following year, former Gary Mayor Jerome Prince ordered GCSC to demolish it. During a press conference in January 2020, Prince accused the district of violating the citys unsafe buildings code and warned of citations, but no demolition plans were brought forth to the public. Two years later, when the district launched a survey for the community to select which closed school theyd most like to see torn down, Norton emerged as the top pick for 92% of respondents. The demolition was expected to begin in the spring of 2023. This never took place. Paige McNulty, the then-leader of GCSC, said the district had enough money set aside to do so, but the prospect of tearing down the school wasnt publicly discussed again until this year. After Gary Mayor Eddie Melton took office in January, he began conversations with the district about sites that were key for his redevelopment plans, Harris said. Nortons demolition is partly being funded by $586,000 Melton gave the district for money the city hadnt paid as part of a tax agreement over the past decade. While the razing hasnt been completed yet, residents have already started throwing out ideas about what could replace the school. Most of them are related to housing, something thats increasingly become less accessible in the city. Some have suggested single-family houses, and others have proposed senior apartments or condos. Whatever takes the schools place, one thing is clear: It will certainly have a legacy to live up to. Everybody that lived in the community, who grew up in the community, [Norton] was just a big part of all of our lives, White said. The post Residents Reflect as Norton Elementarys Demolition Clears Path for Redevelopment appeared first on Capital B Gary. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) The 2024 Revvin 4 Research charity motorcycle ride will take place Sunday, Sept. 29 to raise money for breast cancer research. The motorcycle ride will begin at 2 p.m. and is presented by Heart of Dixie Harley-Davidson and Process Barron. Over 300 motorcyclists are expected for the hour-long ride through Shelby County. Riders can pink-out their bikes to show their support. Very hot and dry weather this week Revvin 4 Research is more than just a motorcycle ride; it symbolizes hope, progress, and a future without breast cancer, stated Beth Davis, President and CEO of BCRFA. Participating in events like Revvin is crucial to making this future a reality. While all funding remains local, the impact is global. Registration is $35 for a single rider or $60 for two-up which includes the escorted ride, event t-shirt and post-ride cookout. Online registration ends Sept. 26. You can register here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks during a December campaign rally in Phoenix. Photo by Rebecca Noble/Getty Images Organizers for independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and for the Maryland Green Party said they each submitted thousands more signatures than the 10,000 needed Monday to earn a place on this falls ballot. The petitions still must be certified by elections officials, but organizers said they are confident. The Green Party said it submitted 16,727 signatures by Mondays deadline to qualify a handful of its candidates who are running for election this fall, in addition to having itself recertified as a party that can put forward candidates through 2026. We feel confident that we turned enough in to make it this time, but we also feel confident that if we dont, well certainly be on [the ticket] for 2026, said Andy Ellis, a member of the Maryland Green Party ballot access committee. The Kennedy campaign said it submitted 26,000 signatures to get him on the ballot in Maryland, part of an uphill fight to earn a place on the ballot in all 50 states. Kennedys team did not directly provide a comment and instead referred questions to its ballot access page and a YouTube ballot access press briefing video. But in its press release, Maryland State Director Josh Mazer said Kennedy would be good for Maryland as president. Kennedy will be a great president for not only Marylanders but all Americans, Mazer said. His track record on the environment demonstrates his commitment to protecting the planet and human health. The petitions are just one step in the process to get on the ballot. Once the petitions are filed, the State Board of Elections has 20 days to review them, said State Administrator of Elections Jared DeMarinis, then local boards verify the numbers and reports back to the state board. DeMarinis also said there are multiple reasons why a petition would be rendered invalid. Theres a whole bunch of reasons, DeMarinis said. It could be the circulator forgot to sign, the circulator forgot to date, the circulators date that he attested that he witnessed all these signatures is a different date than the date of a signature on the page, you cant sign a petition twice. Kennedy is on the ballot in 15 states and his campaign has submitted petitions in 22 other states, including Maryland, according to a campaign statement. It also said it has enough signatures for ballot access in six more states. The Green Party petition aims to get presidential candidate Jill Stein on the ballot, in addition to party candidates for three other Maryland races: Claudia Barber for circuit court judge in Anne Arundel County, Nancy Wallace for the U.S. House of Representatives against Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-8th), and Renaud Brown for Baltimore City Council District 14 against Councilmember Odette Ramos. Ellis mentioned that the name standards petition signatures are extremely strict, requiring a full first name, middle initial and last name, all of which need to match with the voter identification information. He mentioned all of the work that goes into gathering signatures in the first place, things like heat exhaustion and a small number of people managing a large number of people. So we do fairs and festivals where we have tables. We have people walking through farmers markets, we had a couple of paid volunteers working at different points, he said. Its a brutal process gathering signatures, its manual, its been hot this summer, weve had people have really serious health problems. EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) The birds nest perched atop a crane near the westbound side of the Washington Bridge belongs to a protected migratory species, according to the R.I. Department of Environmental Management (DEM). 12 News spotted the nest Monday and reached out to the DEM, which confirmed it is an osprey nest. The DEM said the osprey nest was considered occupied and active, which means it contains eggs or young, in July. The Audubon Society of Rhode Islands osprey monitoring program has been keeping an eye on the nest, the DEM added. 12 News reached out to the Audubon Society of Rhode Island regarding the nests current status and is waiting to hear back. (Corey Welch/WPRI-TV) (Corey Welch/WPRI-TV) The R.I. Department of Transportation (RIDOT) told 12 News the crane has been sitting there for quite some time and will not be used to demolish the structurally deficient bridge. The crane actually belongs to one of the businesses situated along the Seekonk River on the East Providence side, according to RIDOT. Its unclear whether the its presence will impact RIDOTs demolition timeline, since the Migratory Bird Treaty Act makes it illegal to move, destroy or disturb an active osprey nest. 12 News reached out to RIDOT about that but has not heard back yet. RIDOT finalized the bridge demolition contract last month and explained that work would begin soon, with substantial completion expected by the end of next January. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Rioters defile the flag they wrap themselves in, Justin Welby says The riots taking place across the country are not English or British, the Archbishop of Canterbury has said. Justin Welby condemned the criminal violence seen in parts of the UK, which has involved attacks on mosques, assaults on police officers and the looting of shops. The Church of England leader told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: This (violence) is not the United Kingdom. Its not British. Its not English. They defile the flag that they wrap themselves in. Violence and swearing in the face of police from a distance of two foot is never going to convince anyone. Protest is good and is right, and is fundamental to all our freedoms. But peaceful protest will have 1,000, 10,000 times the impact that this violence is having. This violence turns people away from your cause, whatever youre protesting about, and it is just criminal violence. Peaceful protest, peaceful statements will convince, will change peoples mind, will at the very least cause them to listen. The archbishop says the disorder is 'not British' - NEIL TURNER It comes after a seventh day of disorder, with far-Right and anti-racism protesters facing each other in Plymouth, separated by a line of police officers. Hundreds of Muslims, including men in balaclavas and masks, formed a protective ring around a local mosque and shops in Birmingham, amid rumours of a planned march by the far-Right. The Government has accused social media companies of fuelling the disorder, which began after false claims spread online that the suspect in the killing of three girls in Southport was an asylum seeker. Welby spoke of manipulation through social media and by people abroad, which he said must be strongly resisted. He did not mention names, but several other critics have condemned Tommy Robinson, the former English Defence League leader, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, for stoking tensions online while out of the country. He has denied encouraging violence and orchestrating or coordinating the demonstrations. Foreign state actors implicated Downing Street said on Monday that action taken by social media companies to tackle misleading and inflammatory material doesnt go far enough. It also warned that some foreign state actors were amplifying online disinformation. Amid scenes of community clean-ups following some of the disorder, Mr Welby praised the extraordinary cohesion and caring for neighbours that is going on all around the country in the wake of these riots, adding that he believes the trouble will die down very shortly. He said the Government had been responding extremely well through policing, but called for medium and long-term reflection in the aftermath. He added that some of our politicians will always take an opportunity to cause trouble, but thats very, very few and far between. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. BLIK, a modern payment system from Poland, Aion Bank and Vodeno, a provider of financial technology, have formed a strategic partnership. This cooperation will enable both Vodeno and Aion Bank, which participates in the BLIK system as an issuer, to offer fintechs, banks and other financial institutions access to BLIK services. BLIK has become a widely used payment solution in Poland and is regularly expanding its services and network of partnerships, thereby increasing its market presence. The partnership with Vodeno and Aion Bank marks BLIKs first as-a-service agreement The agreement will enable various entities from financial and non-financial sectors across Europe to be able to use BLIK's services. Vodeno and Aion Bank combine a scalable and flexible cloud-based platform with comprehensive banking services, based on Aions European Central Bank license, regulated by the National Bank of Belgium. This allows Vodeno and Aion Bank to integrate various financial solutions, including instant payment solutions in local currencies, directly into the systems of their customers among retail, e-commerce, fintechs or banks. Dariusz Mazurkiewicz, President of the Management Board, Polish Payment Standard, BLIK operator, said: Expanding the portfolio of participants in our system within the embedded finance model opens new growth opportunities for us not only in Poland, but also globally. I am convinced that BLIK's partnership with renowned players such as Vodeno and Aion Bank will significantly support the development of mobile payments in Europe. We will soon see the first results of our cooperation and, thus, the first implementations. Noah Sharp, CEO of Vodeno, commented: The Vodeno Cloud Platform is designed to fully integrate banking and payment services. Now, by partnering with BLIK, we can provide another modern and secure payment solution to the European market, meeting the growing needs and expectations of consumers. We believe that the combination of our advanced technologies with the innovation of the BLIK system will create new standards within financial services, opening up new opportunities and experiences for our clients and their end customers. "Vodeno and Aion Bank to offer BLIK-as-a-service to financial institutions across Europe " was originally created and published by Electronic Payments International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Rita Wolfe, daughter of former Dispatch Publisher John F. Wolfe, dies at the age of 56 Rita Jean Wolfe, a community leader and daughter of former Dispatch Publisher John F. Wolfe, died Monday at the Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital at Ohio State University. Rita J. Wolfe, daughter of former Columbus Dispatch Publisher John F. Wolfe, has died. She was 56. She was known for her work serving on boards of nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping people and animals. Like her father, Wolfe preferred to work behind the scenes, often making discreet inquiries about those who were in need. "She believed everyone should have an opportunity whether it was a person or an animal," said Laurie Stein Marsh, the retired executive director of Leadership Columbus, where Wolfe was a board member and a graduate. "She had an ability to connect with people regardless of their social status in life and the same with animals. She had an abundance of love in her heart I called a generosity of spirit. "She positively impacted the lives of so many people and so many animals," said Rustin Moore, the dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Ohio State. "That was the memory we will keep of her. After earning a bachelor's degree in mass communication from Miami University in Ohio in 1989, she went to work at WGN-TV in Chicago. In 1991, she returned to Columbus to work in the sales department at WBNS-TV, which also was owned by the Wolfe family at the time. Nine years later, she was promoted to corporate director of civic affairs for The Dispatch Printing Company, a position she held until 2016 when she was named vice president and director of corporate relations. Besides Leadership Columbus, Wolfe served on the boards of The Harmony Project and the James Cancer Hospital and Leadership Columbus. Her compassion for animals led to serving on the board of Columbus Humane (formerly the Capital Area Humane Society) and Ohio State's College of Veterinary Medicine Engagement Council. She helped raise awareness of human trafficking and supported CATCH Court, a special docket within the Franklin County Municipal Court to help break the cycle of abuse. "She would see somebody who didnt even make overt request for help. She would work behind the scenes and figure out a way to connect with people to help with the opportunity they were seeking," Marsh said. "It didnt matter who that person was. She did the same with animals. David Brown, creative director of the Harmony Project, said when he first came to town, Wolfe was one of the first people she met. The Wolfe family helped get the project off the ground and have continue to be supportive, he said. "Rita understood that she belonged to a family that had a huge impact and huge imprint on the community," Brown said. "She never took that for granted. Her father died in 2016. She is survived by mother Ann I. Wolfe and sisters Sara W. (Michael) Perrini and Katie W. (Clark) Lloyd. Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday at the Columbus Club, 181 E. Broad St., and a Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Southern Theater, 21 E. Main St. Memorial contributions may be made to the James Cancer Hospital, through the Ohio State University Foundation, or Nationwide Childrens Hospital Foundation. mawilliams@dispatch.com @BizMarkWilliams This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Rita Wolfe, daughter of John F. Wolfe and community leader, dies This Dec. 29, 2019, aerial file photo taken from a helicopter shows Ain al Asad air base in the western Anbar desert, Iraq. | Nasser Nasser Two rockets hit the Al Asad Air Base in Iraq on Monday, injuring seven U.S. personnel, including five servicemen and two contractors. Five of the injured are being treated on-site at the air base and the other two were evacuated for treatment elsewhere. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the attack is a dangerous escalation on the part of militant groups aligned with Iran, CNN reported. In a call between U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, the two men said the attack, demonstrated Irans destabilizing role in the region. Officials are still conducting post-attack assessments at the base and, per a statement from the Iraqi military, the perpetrators as well as personnel responsible for security breaches in the area will be held accountable. The attack comes just a week after the assassination of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders drew promises of retaliation from Iran on Israel, which U.S. military officials have been preparing for. The threats of retaliation have not yet been connected to Mondays rocket attack, though they contribute to the growing conflict in the Middle East. According to CNN, Austin ordered additional military assets to be sent to the Middle East last week, including warships and a fighter squadron. ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) Rockfords famous Coronado Theatre is getting a makeover as City Council approves a bid to provide Berglund Construction Company of Chicago the amount of $2,395,000 for exterior improvements. Executive Director of Friends of the Coronado Beth Howard said the building experienced some damage in 2018, and thats when her organization began looking for restoration solutions. We discovered that the ceilings area aged out and we had water infiltrating behind them, not only the historic masonry, but other masonry as well, Howard said. Thats when we had a survey done of the whole place so we could see everything that needed to get fixed. Howard said this restoration called for a large amount of money, hoping to repair most, if not all of the damage. It is expected to be completed in 2025 and keep the theatre going for many years to come. Its a large building, of course, 70,000 square feet, I think almost every inch of its going to be touched in this in this restoration, Howard said. Visitors will probably notice a little bit cleaner of an exterior, and for sure, youre going to see a theatre thats going to be here for a long time. Second Ward Alderman Jonathan Logemann said the project is funded by a few grants, Howard and Friends of the Coronado Foundation and a redevelopment fund. Logemann said Council is happy to help put the plan in action. The arts is really the heart of the community, the pulse of the community, Logemann said. I think whenever City Council has a chance to support our arts, as a community, we all thrive and do better from the benefits that the arts give us as a town. Howard said shes proud of the theatres impact on the community and shes looking forward to the new look. Its really living history, its super important, Howard said. Its also exciting that the theatres history hasnt stopped. Its still welcoming audiences, its still bringing and gathering community members for important events. Those are things that are important to the history that continues here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. More than 400 health care providers called on the Biden administration to actively and unequivocally support an abortion rights policy that goes further than Roe v. Wade and restores access to abortion later in pregnancy. Advocacy group Physicians for Reproductive Health, along with 430 physicians providing sexual and reproductive health care, on Tuesday sent a letter to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, urging them to do better on abortion care and gender-affirming care. Since the Supreme Court repealed federal abortion protections in 2022, Biden has continually supported restoring Roe, which protected abortion access until around 24 weeks on the federal level. But many abortion rights advocates say that Roe was inherently flawed, allowing targeted restrictions on abortion providers that chipped away at access even where it was legal and left out people who needed abortion care past fetal viability. While Roe provided a constitutional right to abortion, it never ensured access to that right for all those who needed it, reads the letter, which was shared exclusively with HuffPost. The promise of Roe, the legal right to abortion care, was never fulfilled. When Roe was still intact, pregnant people routinely had to travel across state lines to get care later in pregnancy, and hundreds were criminalized for their pregnancy outcomes. More than 1,300 abortion restrictions, or TRAP laws, were enacted in the years after Roe was decided in 1973. These laws forced many abortion clinics to shut down, creating a dynamic where abortion care was legal on a federal level but not actually accessible in many parts of the country. We urge the Administration and law makers across the country to broaden their efforts, moving beyond Roes framework, and talk about the future our patients deserve boldly and bravely, the letter says. We ask you to champion policy solutions that are not premised on returning us to the narrow protections Roe created. We deserve so much more. Our patients deserve so much more. Pro-choice advocates have repeatedlycriticized the president who was running for a second term on a Restore Roe platform before stepping down from the campaign for not being more aggressive on abortion rights. Nearly half the country has effectively criminalized abortion care since the Supreme Court repealed federal protections, and the president still struggles to say the word abortion. Some advocates were optimistic when Harris became the Democratic presidential nominee, pointing out that shes been much more vocal about her support for abortion rights, but recent reports indicate that she is also seeking to restore Roe if elected. The group of health care providers also encouraged Biden and Harris to support access to gender-affirming care for young people and adults. The providers criticized the presidents recent statement in which he opposed care for minors, writing that comments like his are dangerous and firm up opposition to this essential care. Similarly, the letters signatories implored Biden to stop using language that stigmatizes later abortion care. Around 1% of abortions occur at 21 weeks or later a small percentage that Democrats often point to but 1% is still around 9,000 people who get later abortions every year. People get abortions later in pregnancy for a variety of reasons, including people with wanted pregnancies who get a fatal fetal diagnosis or young people who dont realize theyre pregnant or dont have a safe way to get an abortion right away. Since Roe fell, more and more women are being pushed further into pregnancy because they experience barriers to care early on. Full-spectrum reproductive and gender-affirming health care are not only essential, life-saving services, but fundamental human rights, Dr. Jamila Perritt, the president and CEO of Physicians for Reproductive Health who also works as an OB/GYN in Washington, D.C., told HuffPost in a statement. Today, we are calling for bold and brave solutions that support individuals in seeking the care they need free of stigma, delays, and barriers, Perritt added. As providers, it is our responsibility to offer compassionate health care and evidence-based advocacy, to support our patients to the best of our abilities, and ultimately, to build a future where everyone is positioned to thrive. It is my hope that this letter will inspire change within our current legislative landscape, centering the humanity and dignity of those at the margins of oppression. Read the full letter to Biden and Harris below: This embedded content is not available in your region. PRH Letter to Biden Adminis... by Alanna Vagianos Related... Florida governor Ron DeSantiss shameful rejection of a federal food aid program left countless families struggling to feed their children this summer, according to advocates who fear the Republican is about to turn down help for next year too. The summer electronic benefits transfer (EBT) program, known as Sun Bucks, would have given disadvantaged families $120 per child to help pay for groceries during June, July and August while schools are out. But DeSantis balked at spending a little more than $12m on administration costs to receive $250m of federal money, denying caregivers of the 2.1 million Florida children who receive free or reduced priced lunches during the school year the opportunity to obtain the debit cards. Related: Florida callously strips healthcare from thousands of children despite new law Florida was one of 13 states, all Republican controlled, to reject Sun Bucks in 2024. The argument advanced by the state, contradicted by statistics showing one in five children faces hunger, was that there was no need in Florida for such government programs sneeringly dismissed by DeSantis during his failed presidential campaign as welfare benefits. Now the deadline for the 2025 program is less than two weeks away, and those who run regional and community feeding projects are worried the hard-right governor intends to again decline to participate. DeSantis has yet to show his hand, despite unprecedented demand on food banks, and new data showing almost half the states 8.8m households are struggling to afford the basic cost of living. Its atrocious that the governor would even think about not accepting any type of help, said Alix Desulme, mayor of North Miami and founder of the NoMi food pantry, the first and only government-run facility of its kind in Florida. Since the pandemic, weve seen the population we serve increase over 300%, 22% of children in Florida are living in food insecurity, and people cannot afford to eat. The fact the governor embraced that, its very shameful. He should just come to the pantry on food distribution day and see the line. But they dont want to talk about it, and the pattern is if they dont talk about it then it doesnt exist. If they think that people are not suffering, people are not feeling it, that its not hurting, then theyre not living the reality. The Florida House Democratic caucus, meanwhile, accused DeSantis of an ill-advised choice to politicize food insecurity in a statement. DeSantiss office did not respond to a request for comment. But his administrations view of the summer EBT program was laid out for reporters in December by Mallory McManus, deputy chief of staff of the Florida department of children and families, as the deadline to participate in 2024 expired. We anticipate that our states full approach to serving children will continue to be successful this year without any additional federal programs that inherently always come with some federal strings attached, she said. Analysts say the declared full approach, including partnerships with community organizations and entities such as school districts to provide children with lunches, should have been supplementary to Sun Bucks, not viewed as an alternative. They also point out that a preloaded debit card allows families freedom to purchase the groceries they want at a time and place of their choosing, and not be tied to food giveaways at restricted times and venues. Related: Ron DeSantis strips more than $32m in Florida arts funding One of the statements we continue to hear is that Florida already offers summer meal programs and therefore were good, we dont really need a program such as Sun Bucks. I surely wish that were true, said Sky Beard, Florida program director of No Kid Hungry. The work we and other partners do demonstrates thats an inaccurate perception. Less than 10% of children who participate in free and reduced lunch during the school year are also able to get a summer meal. Federal child nutrition programs are meant to work in conjunction with others, not one over the other, to meet the needs of a whole state. There are fantastic programs and communities doing the best they can, but its unrealistic to think all families can stop their work day, visit a site, have their child consume that meal on site and then go back to work. And in some communities its unsafe for children to walk to a meal site on their own, its too far and too hot. Beard said Florida did a great job in challenging circumstances administering a pandemic EBT program, and that discussions had taken place with the governors office to try to persuade DeSantis to meet the 15 August deadline for the summer 2025 program. Its still good conversation, she said. It allows us to feel optimistic. We see that as a move, for now, in the right direction. On Monday, DeSantis and his wife Casey were in Tampa, handing out more than $300,000 raised in the private sector to churches supporting in-need families and individuals, including with meals. Political opponents say it is hypocritical for DeSantis to take credit for a smaller, private initiative while refusing to accept more than $250m of federal money to alleviate hunger. Florida would be required to contribute approximately $13m in state funds to cover half of the costs of administering the program, which represents a minute fraction of the states projected $17bn budget surplus that Governor DeSantis frequently highlights, the Florida House Democratic statement said. Every Floridian deserves the freedom to be healthy, prosperous and safe, and we urge the DeSantis administration to not deny families the necessary aid in helping put food on their tables. RTXs Raytheon has received a $478 million contract from NATO to replenish the Patriot GEM-T missiles Germany has sent to war-torn Ukraine, the company announced Tuesday. Awarding the contract was the NATO Support and Procurement Agency, which supports a partnership between Ukraine, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway and Germany countries who have agreed to finance the procurement of GEM-T missiles to replenish those sent to Ukraine in support of its defense against Russia. Our customers are already realizing the benefits of bundled, multinational procurement of Patriot missiles through NSPA, including the economies that offer greater affordability and the pre-negotiated contracting framework that shortens the acquisition timeline, Tom Laliberty, Raytheons president of land and air defense systems, said in an August 6 statement. As a result, not only can we better support the missile inventories for these European partners, but also strengthen our cooperation, their interoperability, and their contribution to an essential NATO mission, he added. In January, the multinational coalition jointly ordered up to 1,000 Patriot GEM-T missiles as part of a $5.5 billion production and delivery contract of the weapons to COMLOG, a joint venture between MBDA Germany and Raytheon. There are currently eight European countries that purchase the Patriot air and missile defense systems. That customer list grows to 19 countries worldwide. Earlier this month, Raytheon won the companys second contract this year, worth $1.2 billion, to provide major Patriot air and missile defense components to Germany as the country sends additional Patriot systems to Ukraine. Raytheon previously inked a Patriot systems contract with Germany in March for the same amount. The company is expected to deliver four complete Patriot fire units under the previous contract and four fire units under the new deal. How companies plan to ramp up production of Patriot missiles While some components for GEM-T missiles will still be made stateside, Raytheon is expanding its supplier base in Europe to build critical GEM-T components. This effort includes the standing up of an all-up round integration and test facility with Germanys MBDA, Laliberty told Defense News in an interview earlier this year. MBDA subsidiary Bayern-Chemie will become a new rocket motor manufacturer for the missile, while another company in Spain will build a new control actuation system. Overall, Raytheons production of GEM-T missiles remains ongoing, with a contracted backlog of approximately 1,500 missiles, including the NATO order, and an estimated near-term demand of an additional 1,000 missiles. The company is producing roughly 20 missiles each month and, with the added capacity through international initiatives, is on a path to reach 35 missiles per month by the end of 2027, according to Laliberty. New rules will change how North Carolinians buy and sell homes. Heres what to know. The rules of buying and selling a home in North Carolina are getting a shakeup this month. But its still too early to tell where broker commissions and house prices will land as a result, experts say. Five months after the National Association of Realtors (NAR) the trade group that sets rules for home sales across the nation agreed to pay $418 million in damages and rewrite several rules to resolve claims of price fixing, its putting those new policies into place. By Aug. 17, all associations operating on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), the groups online portal where more than 80% of homes are bought and sold in the U.S., will be in compliance, NAR said in a release. What does that mean for sellers, buyers and Realtors here in North Carolina? Heres what you need to know. What was the lawsuit about? In April 2019, a group of Missouri home sellers filed a lawsuit, the Sitzer-Burnett case, against the NAR and other defendants, including Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Keller Williams and RE/MAX. The plaintiffs argued commission rates were too high, buyers brokers were paid too much and its rules led to fixed rates. It also triggered more than a dozen other lawsuits. (The NAR has about 1.5 million members nationwide.) Last November, a federal jury found the NAR and two brokerages liable for $1.8 billion in damages, CNN reported. The NAR continues to deny any wrongdoing but settled in March. The settlement releases its members, including 10,000 members of the Raleigh Regional Association of Realtors (RRAR) from liability for the types of claims brought in cases on behalf of home sellers. What changes will take effect on Aug. 17? NAR has committed to several rule changes. (Its also paying $418 million to home sellers over four years.) Perhaps the biggest, say experts, is banning brokers from setting commissions for buyers agents on the MLS. In a practice called decoupling, buyers and sellers will now be responsible for paying their own agents rather than expecting the seller to pay a single commission: historically 5% to 6% of the listings sales price one of the highest rates in the world. Matt Fowler is executive director of Triangle MLS, a Cary-based multiple listing service, which covers 16 counties including Wake, Durham, Johnston and Orange and has 14,500 members. He said compensation fields will be removed from its listing platform on Aug. 6, ahead of schedule. It will literally be stripped from my network entirely, he told The N&O in a video call. That includes history, active listings, everything. Its not something you can search anymore. Brokers must now also enter into a written agreement with their buyers, summarizing the terms and conditions of their services before touring a home. That goes for in-person or virtual tours, said Jay Nelson, RRARs communications director. Brokers must also obtain the sellers approval for any compensation to the buyers broker beforehand. That will ensure, he added, that Realtors continue to be fully transparent about the compensation process. (North Carolina is one of 18 states where brokerage agreements have been mandatory law since the early 1990s.) How will the settlement impact VA buyers? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced a temporary policy in June, removing a previous rule that prohibited veteran borrowers from paying buyer-broker fees. The condition had presented a potential hardship for eligible veterans using the VA-guaranteed home loan benefit. Interim measures ensure veterans are not negatively impacted by the class-action lawsuit and remain competitive buyers, the VA said in a release. It takes effect Aug. 10. It remains unclear if the changes will become permanent. The full impact of the settlement on the real estate market is yet to be determined, the VA added. [We] will continue to monitor. For additional information about this update, go to www.benefits.va.gov. Is the 6% commission dead? While rates are unlikely to fall immediately, they could shrink to 3% to 4% over time, saving consumers an estimated $20 billion to $30 billion annually, said Stephen Brobeck, senior fellow at the Washington, D.C.-based Consumer Federation of America. It also opens the marketplace to a greater variation in types of compensation and rates charged by agents, like flat-fee and discount brokerages, he said. [The] buyer will still be able to request a concession from sellers that includes funds to help cover buyer agent compensation, but this will be after they have had the opportunity to comparison shop, Brobeck said. It will also encourage sellers to negotiate their listing agents compensation, he added. Others arent so sure. In North Carolina, at least, experts argue its been standard practice for buyers and sellers to negotiate compensation for years. The 6% was never really a mandate in our market, said Tammie Harris, who runs her own eponymous brokerage firm in North Raleigh and Franklinton. What should buyers look for in new contract forms? The Consumer Federation of America has proposed criteria for evaluating new home buyer contract forms. They include: Brokers have the right to terminate contracts at any time; buyers should have the same right with no fees charged. The contract should state prominently that the brokers fee is not set by law and is fully negotiable. The brokers fee should be clearly stated, always as a dollar figure or as an hourly rate. It should also state that the buyers broker can receive no additional compensation for facilitating the sale. Any seller concessions should be approved by and paid to buyers, not their brokers, then used by buyers. For full list of guidelines, go to www.consumerfed.org. Will home prices go down? Some argue these changes could push down prices. Greater transparency will undoubtedly drive down costs, said Ryan Fitzgerald, founder of Raleigh Realty, calling this a pivotal moment for both consumers and brokers. The impact cant be overstated. But he also didnt expect drastic change overnight. There will be a period of transition. Stacey Anfindsen, an Apex appraiser who analyzes MLS data, is slightly more skeptical. He pointed to the regions long-running housing shortage as why he doesnt expect prices to budge much. I just dont see where somebodys going to cut the price when you have an undersupply, he said. Consumers can find additional information on what these changes mean in NARs buyers and sellers guides. Russian authorities have informed the country's telecom operators that YouTube will be slowed down to 128 kilobytes a second, the independent Russian media outlet Meduza reported on Aug. 6, citing sources. Widespread YouTube outages have already been reported across Russia starting earlier in August. In July, Russian lawmaker Alexander Khinshtein said that Russian authorities would deliberately slow YouTube loading speeds by up to 70% beginning the following week. Khinshtein, the head of the State Duma's Information Policy Committee, claimed that the move is "not aimed against Russian users, but against the administration of a foreign resource that still believes that it can violate and ignore our legislation with impunity." According to Meduza's source, YouTube videos will still be accessible without impacting the buffering time if the video remains in 240p or lower. For now, authorities have decided "not to turn off (YouTube) completely, but to slow it down significantly." The source also disputed the notion that the slowdown of YouTube videos is related to technical issues with Google servers in Russia. "It is clear that, for now, this is an attempt to provoke a reaction from Google." The Russian pro-state outlet Gazeta.ru reported in July that the Russian government plans to block YouTube entirely in September, but Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denied the supposed plans. The move will primarily impact smartphone accessibility, although desktop YouTube usage may also be slowed. YouTube videos can still be accessed at normal speeds by using a VPN. In April, a Moscow court rejected an appeal from Google's parent company, Alphabet, to remove an almost $50 million fine imposed on the company for its failure to delete information that Russia deems to be discrediting its armed forces and promoting extremist content. Read also: Russia approves bill to ban undesirable foreign state-funded organizations Sign up for our newsletter WTF is wrong with Russia? Sign up Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Vladimir Putin has urged Iran to show restraint and not target civilians with its planned attack on Israel. The Russian presidents message to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Irans supreme leader, was delivered through Sergei Shoigu, the secretary of Russias security council, in meetings with Iranian officials, it was reported on Tuesday. Iranian officials reportedly said Tehran believed the Middle East was on the brink of a major conflict triggered by Israels assassination of senior figures from the Hamas and Hezbollah militant groups. The Islamic Republic has said it has the legal right to punish the Jewish state for the back-to-back killings but is not looking to escalate regional tensions. Shoigu discussed the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas political chief, on his visit to Tehran, Russian state media reported on Tuesday. The Kremlin has condemned the Hamas chief's killing as a 'very dangerous assassination' - Gavriil Grigorov/Pool Sputnik Kremlin The Iranian officials said his visit was one of several avenues the Kremlin had used to call for restraint, while condemning the Hamas chiefs killing as a very dangerous assassination. The Russian official met with both Massed Pezshkian, Irans new president, and Mohammad Bagheri, the commander of its armed forces, who is leading the planning for the strike on Israel. Tehran used the meetings with the Putin ally to call for the delivery of Russian-made Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets, the sources added. Iran also asked Russia to bolster its air defences in apparent preparations for a tit-for-tat conflict with Israel, the New York Times reported separately. Russian air defence equipment and advanced radars had already started arriving in Tehran, the American outlets sources added. Russia have stood by us Russia is among the countries that have stood by the Iranian nation during difficult times, Pezeshkian told Shoigu, Iranian state media reported. Both Moscow and Tehran have sought to cultivate closer ties since the start of Putins invasion of Ukraine and could be on the cusp of signing a wide-ranging cooperation agreement. The Islamic Republic has shipped thousands of drones to Russia that are used by the countrys forces to bombard Ukrainian cities. Nato leaders have also warned Iran against bolstering its support for the Kremlin with shipments of ballistic missiles. Western analysts say that Putin has taken advantage of Middle Eastern turmoil since Hamass Oct 7 terror attack on Israel to secure weapons for his war in Ukraine. Since Oct 7, Russia has been exploiting turmoil in the Middle East for its own benefit, Dmitri Alperovitch, of the Silverado Policy Accelerator think-tank, said. It has used the conflict as an opportunity to both tighten its strategic partnership with Iran, on which it has become increasingly reliant for drones and missile munitions needed for its war on Ukraine, as well as to present Putin as a great statesman seeking to lower tensions while showcasing the United States as helping to spread instability. Shoigus trip is designed to advance both of these objections to showcase Russias support for Iran but also to present Russia to the region and the rest of the world as a mediator trying to prevent escalation. Since Iran gave Israel notice of its planned retaliation, Western diplomats have called for calm in a bid to prevent any wider escalation. Joe Biden, the US president, held talks with King Abdullah of Jordan, whose country helped repel Tehrans last major attack on Israel. Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, held talks with Egypt over finding an agreement for a ceasefire - Kevin Mohatt/REUTERS Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, held talks with Badr Abdelatty, his Egyptian counterpart, saying finding an agreement for a ceasefire in Israels war in Gaza was of the highest priority to the United States. Josep Borrell, the EUs top foreign envoy, said: Tensions keep escalating in the Middle East, bringing it on the brink of a war of unknown proportions. US intelligence officials have told Mr Biden they believe there will be two waves of attacks on Israel - one from Iran and the second from Hezbollah. But it is unclear which one will seek to strike first, US officials said. The preparations come as several US personnel were injured in a rocket attack on Monday against the Al-Asad airbase in Iraq. A US defence official said: We can confirm that there was a suspected rocket attack today against US and Coalition forces at Al-Asad Airbase, Iraq. Initial indications are that several US personnel were injured. Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment. The Pentagon blamed an Iranian-backed militia group for the attack, branding it a dangerous escalation. Click here to view this content. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Editor's note: This is a developing story and is being updated. A Russian missile attack against Kharkiv on Aug. 6 killed one person and injured 12 others, including an eight-month-old baby, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. Russia struck the Shevchenkivskyi city district with an Iskander missile at around 10 a.m., damaging a clinic, cars, and other civilian infrastructure, Governor Oleh Syniehubov said. Two of the victims have been hospitalized, the governor said. More people are thought to be trapped under the rubble. Attacks on population centers in Kharkiv Oblast intensified after Russian forces launched a new cross-border offensive in the northern part of the region in May. While Ukrainian troops have halted the advance, Russia continues to hold a handful of border settlements. Read also: Russian attacks across Ukraine kill 3, injure 19 over past day Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Warren Buffett wrote the Gates Foundation out of his will and left his money in a trust overseen by his kids Warren Buffett recently told the Wall Street Journal that he has changed his will several times over the years. But his most recent amendments made global headlines. The WSJ had exclusive access to the almost 94-year-old billionaires will in June 2024 and discovered that he cut the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation out of his will. This was a huge surprise, as he was on the board of trustees of the Foundation, and has already donated billions of dollars to it. Don't miss Cost-of-living in America is still out of control use these 3 'real assets' to protect your wealth today, no matter what the US Fed does or says Dont leave your family unprotected find life insurance coverage up to $2 million with no medical exam or blood test These 5 magic money moves will boost you up America's net worth ladder in 2024 and you can complete each step within minutes. Here's how Instead, the Oracle of Omaha has decided to leave much of his money in a new charitable trust overseen by his three adult children. They must unanimously decide on how to donate his remaining wealth after his death. Even after giving away more than half of the shares of his company, Berkshire Hathaway, Buffett still owns nearly $130 billion of its stock, as per the WSJ. It should be used to help the people that havent been as lucky as we have been, he told the WSJ. Theres eight billion people in the world, and me and my kids, weve been in the luckiest 100th of 1% or something. Theres lots of ways to help people. Buffett may be an investing legend, but the recent changes to his will can also provide insights into your own estate planning. Adjust for family changes Buffett once famously said that he wouldnt leave his children much of an inheritance. However, it seems his mindset has slightly changed, as hes now leaving them in charge of donating his Berkshire Hathaway shares. He arrived at the current plan after seeing how his children matured over the years, WSJ reporter Karen Langley explained. Buffetts three children all have their own philanthropic interests. His daughter, Susie, chairs the Sherwood Foundation, which funds Nebraska initiatives in education and social justice. His eldest son, Howard, heads up the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, which combats human trafficking and mitigates conflict. Meanwhile, his younger son, Peter, and his wife run the NoVo Foundation, which supports social justice initiatives in marginalized communities. I feel very, very good about the values of my three children, and I have 100% trust in how they will carry things out, Buffett told the WSJ. Story continues Like Buffetts will, yours should also reflect your own family dynamics. For instance, if your kids start their own families, you may want to include your grandchildren in your will. Or, if you have a family member whom you dont want to have access to your estate after you die, make sure to get that in writing. Read more: Car insurance rates have spiked in the US to a stunning $2,150/year but you can be smarter than that. Here's how you can save yourself as much as $820 annually in minutes (it's 100% free) Get started on your own estate planning Buffett had spoken with Melinda Gates about his decision to remove the Gates Foundation from his will. So, when the WSJ article came out, it wasnt news to her. No, this decision did not surprise me, Gates told The New York Times. Its been a decision that I think hes been coming to over time, and I was aware that he was making this decision. Although Buffett chose to inform the Gates Foundation about their exclusion from his will, youre not legally obligated to do so. In fact, it could just stir up trouble. However, with Buffetts situation, his children can start to think about how to spend his money in an appropriate way even if theyre not quite there yet. We have not talked about what we will do because it seems a little premature, Susie Buffett told the WSJ. I can imagine it will probably [be] some continuation of what weve been doing. Its good practice to review and update your will and estate plans every few years. Many attorneys will advise revisiting your documents every five years to make adjustments. After all, that planning took time, money and effort you dont want it to fall short when the time comes to put it to use. What to read next Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now use $100 to cash in on prime real estate without the headache of being a landlord. Here's how Car insurance premiums in America are through the roof and only getting worse. But 5 minutes could have you paying as little as $29/month Berkshire icon Charlie Munger believed homeownership is for families who want to live in them not single people. Heres how to invest in real estate no matter your marital status This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia had suspicions that Ukraine planned to attack Russia during the Navy Day parade which was attended by President Vladimir Putin last month and Moscow contacted Washington about its concerns, Russian state television reported. Russian television said that the details were a state secret and provided no further details. Ukraine's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report. The report cited Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov as saying that the concerns were so great about the suspected attack that Defence Minster Andrei Belousov contacted U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin about the suspicions. Reuters was unable to immediately verify the report. The New York Times reported that Austin had taken a call from Belousov on July 12 about a covert Ukrainian operation planned against Russia that Moscow believed had the blessing of the United States. The Times cited two unidentified U.S. officials as saying that Pentagon officials were surprised by the Russian allegation and unaware of any such plot. Still, the Russian concerns were taken seriously enough for Washington to contact Ukraine and caution Kyiv that if it was planning such an operation then it should not carry it out. (Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Guy Faulconbridge, Jacqueline Wong and Andrew Heavens) Russia takes revenge on Moldova for expelling employee of Russian embassy Russia has declared a member of the Moldovan embassy in Russia persona non grata in response to Moldovas decision to expel an employee of the Russian embassy in Chisinau. Source: European Pravda with reference to the statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia on 6 August Details: Alexandru Chetraru, Charges d'Affaires ad Interim of Moldova, was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia on 6 August. A protest was declared against him due to the "unfriendly steps of official Chisinau". The diplomat was handed a document declaring one employee of the embassy of Moldova in Russia persona non grata. Background: Last week searchers were conducted in the building of the Moldovan Parliament and two individuals were detained in connection with a treason case. After that Chisinau announced that an employee of the Russian embassy had been expelled for activity incompatible with diplomatic status. Support UP or become our patron! Ukrainian service members prepare to fire a RM-70 Vampire multiple launch rocket system towards Russian troops, at a position near a front line in Donetsk region By Guy Faulconbridge MOSCOW (Reuters) - A top Russian official told Ukraine on Tuesday that the longer it waited to enter peace talks, the tougher the terms would be for its people. Moscow has said talks must be based on Ukraine ceding land amounting to a fifth of its territory - much of it seized by Russian forces - and renouncing any prospect of joining the Western-led NATO alliance, terms that Ukraine has dismissed out of hand. Sergei Shoigu, secretary of Russia's Security Council and until recently President Vladimir Putin's defence minister, said that since Putin had proposed peace terms on June 14, Ukraine had lost 420 sq km (162 sq miles) of territory and much blood. "The window of opportunity for Ukraine is narrowing," he was shown saying by state television, adding that Ukraine had not responded and would lose more territory the longer it delayed. "The Kyiv regime's illusions that the Europeans will arrange another beautiful peace summit, ... at which all their internal problems will be resolved by themselves, are costing the people of Ukraine dearly," Shoigu said. He gave a figure for Ukrainian troop losses but Reuters cannot verify such numbers, and neither side enumerates its own casualties. Having sent in its troops in 2022, Russia now controls about 18% of Ukraine including Crimea, which it seized and unilaterally annexed in 2014. It also holds swathes of four regions in southeastern Ukraine that Putin, claiming historical and cultural justification, says Kyiv must cede in their entirety. Reuters has reported that Putin is ready to halt the war with a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines, but is prepared to fight on if Kyiv and the West do not respond. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said last month that Kyiv was prepared for talks provided Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, recognised by the vast majority of U.N. member states, were fully respected. (Editing by Kevin Liffey) The Russians bombarded Ukraine with four ballistic missiles, two Kh-59 guided missiles and 16 kamikaze drones on the night of 5-6 August. Ukrainian air defence has managed to shoot down two ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles and 15 UAVs. Source: Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, on Telegram Quote: "On the night of 5-6 August 2024, the enemy fired four Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles at Kyiv Oblast from Russias Voronezh Oblast, two Kh-59 guided missiles from the airspace over the Azov Sea and 16 Shahed attack UAVs from Cape Chauda (Crimea) and Kursk (Russia). The air attack was repelled by mobile firing groups of the Ukrainian defence forces, and anti-aircraft missile units and electronic warfare units of the Air Force. As a result of the combat efforts, two Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles, two Kh-59 guided missiles and 15 attack UAVs were shot down in Kyiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Khmelnytskyi oblasts." Background: An air-raid warning was issued in a number of Ukraines oblasts on the night of 5-6 August. The Russians hit the city of Kyiv with ballistic missiles and used kamikaze drones as well. However, Ukrainian air defence downed almost all of the drones in the skies over several oblasts. Support UP or become our patron! Russian troops attacked the city of Kherson on Aug. 6, injuring at least five people, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin reported. A Russian drone dropped explosives on Kherson's outskirts. Two men, aged 53 and 57, as well as three women, aged 37, 46 and 68, suffered injuries and were hospitalized, Prokudin said. Ukraine's Armed Forces liberated Kherson and other settlements in the region on the west bank of the Dnipro River in the fall 2022 counteroffensive. Russian troops were pushed to the river's east bank, from where they have since been firing at the liberated territories, regularly resulting in civilian deaths, as well as large-scale destruction of houses and infrastructure. Russian attacks against Ukraine killed at least three and injured 19 people over the past day, regional authorities reported. One person was killed, and five others suffered injuries in Kherson Oblast, Prokudin said. Read also: Updated: Russian missile attack on Kharkiv injures 8, damages clinic Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russian attacks against Ukraine killed at least three and injured 19 people over the past day, regional authorities reported early on Aug. 6. A total of 11 Ukrainian oblasts came under Russian attacks Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, Luhansk, Khmelnytskyi, Dnipropetrovsk, Kyiv, Kharkiv, Sumy, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, and Donetsk. Casualties were reported in the latter seven regions. According to Ukraine's Air Force, Russia launched 16 Shahed-type drones from Cape Chauda in occupied Crimea and the Russian city of Kursk, as well as four Iskander M/KN-23 ballistic missiles from Russia's Voronezh Oblast and two Kh-59 guided missiles from the Azov Sea. Ukrainian forces downed 15 drones, two Kh-59 guided missiles, and one Iskander M/KN-23 ballistic missile over Kyiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv, and Khmelnytskyi oblasts. In Donetsk Oblast, Russian attacks killed one person in the town of Toretsk in the Bakhmut district, according to Governor Vadym Filashkin. In the Pokrovsk district's village of Mykolaivka, two people suffered injuries, while the morning Russian attack on the village of Novoekonomichne injured six people. In Kherson Oblast, the Russian army targeted 12 settlements, including the regional center of Kherson, according to Governor Oleksandr Prokudin. One person was killed, and five others suffered injuries. In Sumy Oblast, one person was killed due to the Russian attack with a first-person-view (FPV) drone in the Khotyn community, and two other people were injured due to the strikes with KAB guided aerial bombs, the local military administration reported. Russian troops fired 495 times at Zaporizhzhia Oblast over the past day, targeting 10 settlements and injuring two women in the Vasylivka district, the local military administration reported. In Kharkiv Oblast's Kupiansk, a police officer was injured as a result of an FPV drone attack, according to Governor Oleh Syniehubov. In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, a 76-year-old man suffered injuries in the city of Nikopol, Governor Serhii Lysak reported. There were over a dozen attacks in the Nikopol district over the past day. As every day, the Russian forces launched "kamikaze" drones and fired artillery, targeting the area, Lysak added. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russian Su-34 jet destroyed in Ukraines strike on Morozovsk airfield, Kyiv says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russian authorities claim attack on Russia's Kursk and Belgorod oblasts video Russian authorities have reported a drone attack on Kursk and Belgorod oblasts on the night of 5-6 August, resulting in damaged houses and burned cars. Source: Alexei Smirnov, acting Governor of Kursk Oblast; Belgorod Oblast Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov; local Telegram channels Details: Smirnov initially reported that three drones were downed in Kursk Oblast, later mentioning another 11. An air-raid warning was in place throughout the night. Local residents reported explosions in the Sudzha Korenevo, Lgov, Kurchatov and Belovsky districts. pic.twitter.com/MszROcSFR0 (@ukrpravda_news) August 6, 2024 Smirnov wrote about the attack on the town of Sudzha in the morning. He said five people sustained injuries and were hospitalised. Several residential buildings were heavily damaged. Gladkov reported that drones attacked the village of Yasnye Zori in Belgorod Oblast, burning several cars, a garage and damaging houses. Support UP or become our patron! MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia said on Tuesday that Ukraine had launched an armoured assault into Russia's southern Kursk region, but Moscow's forces had responded and the region's governor described the situation on the border as "controllable". Kursk's acting governor Alexei Smirnov said five people were killed including two members of an ambulance crew, and at least 20 were wounded in the fighting. A senior human rights official said six children were among the injured. Ukraine made no official comment, though there was evidence of some military action from the Ukrainian side of the border. Moscow's defence ministry said it had sent reserves to help repel hundreds of Ukrainian fighters backed by tanks, in what would be one of the largest ground incursions into Russian territory of the more than two-year-old war. "The enemy today launched another attempt to break into the territory of Russia's Kursk region," the latest ministry statement said. "Artillery fire, army aviation strikes and drone strikes are being inflicted on the enemy." Ukraine regularly fires artillery and missiles into Russian territory, and has hit targets deep inside Russia with long-range attack drones, but infantry raids are rare. Forces describing themselves as voluntary paramilitaries fighting on Ukraine's side staged a major incursion into parts of Belgorod and Kursk region earlier this year. The purpose of those raids, which inflicted minimal damage, remains unclear. Ukraine's general staff on Tuesday reported Russian strikes on border villages but made no mention of any Ukrainian offensive operation inside Russia. Reuters was unable to verify battlefield accounts from either side. Russia's defence ministry appeared to have deleted an earlier account of the attack in which it said a "Ukrainian sabotage group" had suffered heavy losses and retreated into Ukraine. Official Russian social media accounts said that up to 300 Ukrainian fighters, backed by tanks, had attacked border units in two localities in Kursk - Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya. Acting governor Smirnov said three Russian civilians had been killed initially, one by shelling and two by drones. Writing on the Telegram messaging app late in the evening, Smirnov also said Ukrainian forces had shelled a border area, injuring two children. ATTACK ON AMBULANCE Officials said the border town of Sudzha had also come under assault and Smirnov said a Ukrainian attack drone had hit an ambulance outside the town, killing the driver and a paramedic and wounding a doctor. He posted a video telling residents: "I ask you to remain calm and not to be subject to the enemy's information provocations. The situation is controllable." A senior Orthodox clergyman said Ukrainian shelling had set ablaze a cathedral and other buildings within a large monastery outside Sudzha, but no one was hurt. Kursk region is also the site of a nuclear power plant, but Smirnov said the facility was operating without incident. Military authorities in Sumy region - on the other side of the border from Kursk region - said Ukrainian forces had destroyed a Russian ballistic missile, two drones and a helicopter in the region. Unofficial Ukrainian military blogs showed pictures of what they described as the destroyed helicopter and other equipment. Ukraine's main military effort is focused on pushing back Russian military forces who control nearly a fifth of its territory. Russian troops have made a series of gradual gains in the past six months. A Russian missile attack on the city of Kharkiv in northeastern Ukraine killed at least one person, injured 12 others and damaged a medical clinic, according to Ukrainian officials. (Reporting by Reuters in Moscow with additional reporting by Yuliia Dysa in Gdansk; writing by Mark Trevelyan; editing by Jonathan Oatis and Stephen Coates) Chief of the General Staff of Russian Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov attends an expanded meeting of the Defence Ministry Board in Moscow MOSCOW (Reuters) - The chief of Russia's general staff, Valery Gerasimov, has inspected Russian forces in the combat zone in Ukraine, the defence ministry said on Tuesday. The ministry said Gerasimov heard reports from commanders and "set tasks for further actions". It did not say exactly where and when the visit took place. Gerasimov has periodically visited troops at the front during the nearly two and a half years of the war. He weathered heavy criticism over Russian setbacks and retreats in 2022, and can point to a series of gradual advances since Russia regained the initiative and captured the eastern city of Avdiivka in February. While Russia has yet to achieve any strategic breakthrough, its forces control nearly a fifth of Ukraine, with no end in sight to the war. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in June for Gerasimov and former defence minister Sergei Shoigu, saying it suspected them of war crimes for directing attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure. Russia denies committing war crimes in Ukraine and dismissed the move as legally meaningless because it is not a member of the court. (Reporting by Reuters, writing by Mark Trevelyan) Russians attack central district of Kharkiv, clinic building damaged, people may be under rubble Russian forces carried out a missile attack on the city centre of Kharkiv on the morning of 6 August, damaging a clinic building. So far two people have turned to medics for assistance, and some people may be trapped under the rubble. Source: Terekhov on Telegram; Ukraines Air Force on Telegram; Oleh Syniehubov, Head of Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram Quote: "A strike on the central district of the city. A dense[ly populated] residential area. A fire has broken out. Information about the damage and casualties is being updated." Details: Earlier, the Air Force reported activity by Russian tactical aircraft in the northeast and the threat of ballistic missile attacks from the east. Update: Terekhov clarified that a clinic building had been damaged in the Russian attack on the city centre of Kharkiv. Oleh Syniehubov, Head of Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration, noted that two people with acute reactions to stress had sought help from medics. Moreover, some people may still be trapped under the rubble. He later reported that preliminary information indicates that the Russians attacked Kharkiv with an Iskander missile, damaging civilian premises, including a clinic building, cars and residential infrastructure, and breaking windows. The response to deal with the aftermath is ongoing. Support UP or become our patron! Shares of Yum China (NYSE: YUMC) were moving higher today after the company reported better-than-expected results in its second-quarter earnings report, overcoming consumer weakness in China. As of 11:07 a.m. ET, the stock was up 13.2%. Image source: Getty Images. Yum China overcomes a low bar The Chinese operator of KFC and Pizza Hut said that same-store sales were down 4% in the quarter, but overall revenue increased 1% to $2.68 billion, driven by new store openings and reaching a record high for the second quarter. On currency-neutral terms, revenue was up 4%. The company continued its rapid expansion, adding 401 new locations in the quarter, bringing the total to 15,423. Restaurant-level margin was 15.5%, even with results a year ago after adjustments, and core operating profit rose 12% to $275 million, driving earnings per share up 17% to $0.55 ahead of estimates at $0.42. Management noted a benefit from reducing the complexity of its menus and operations and said KFC, its largest brand, gained market share in delivery. The company also announced that CFO Andy Yeung would step down due to personal reasons, and will be replaced by Chief Investment Officer Adrian Ding. CEO Joey Wat said: "We achieved our most profitable second quarter since the spin-off, with core operating profit growing by 12% despite challenging industry dynamics. Our sharp focus on value-for-money and innovative new products worked well, driving robust same-store transaction growth." What's next for Yum China Management maintained its guidance for 2024, calling for 1,500 to 1,700 net new stores and returning $1.5 billion to shareholders in dividends and share repurchases. Given the challenges in China, investors may want to take a cautious approach with Yum, but the stock is affordably priced, and the margin improvements in the quarter are impressive. Should you invest $1,000 in Yum China right now? Before you buy stock in Yum China, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Yum China wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $615,516!* Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than quadrupled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*. Story continues See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of August 6, 2024 Jeremy Bowman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Why Yum China Stock Popped Today was originally published by The Motley Fool Two civilians have been killed in the Russian bombardment of Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Source: Ivan Fedorov, the Head of Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram Details: According to Fedorov, the Russians dropped guided aerial bombs on Dolynka in the Vozdvyzhivka rural hromada (an administrative unit designating a town, village or several villages and their adjacent territories). The bomb killed two men and partially destroyed a private building. Support UP or become our patron! A dam burst in the town of Dalnerechensk in the far east of Russia overnight on Aug. 6, regional authorities told state-owned TASS news agency. This marks the fourth such case in Russia in two weeks. On July 26, a dam broke at the Kialimskoye water reservoir in the Karabash urban district of Russia's Chelyabinsk region. In the Segezha district of Karelia, a dam on the White Sea-Baltic Canal burst on July 29, killing one person. The Khonkholoy dam in Buryatia broke due to floods on Aug. 4, causing water to wash away several bridges. In April 2024, the Russian city of Orengurg was flooded after several rivers, including the Ural, burst from their banks, and the Orsk Dam collapsed. The water levels in the city rose 2 meters above the critical level, flooding 11,700 homes, according to the local authorities. The victims of the Orenburg flood reported to Agence France-Presse the lack of response from the government and local authorities. "No one is helping us," one resident said, according to the agency. "No Emergency Situations Ministry, no one has ever come." Read also: Deer and boar could roam forests in the Kakhovka reservoir in 5 years, head of national reserve says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Media outlets agreed not to report the prisoner swap until the 16 people, including reporter Evan Gershkovich (right), were safe - Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP The Bloomberg news agency has fired one of its top White House reporters for breaking the story too early on the prisoner swap between the US and Russia, potentially endangering the deal. The news agency sacked Jennifer Jacobs, one of its prominent Washington journalists, for breaking an embargo agreed with the Biden administration that prisoners including Evan Gershkovich had been freed. But she hit back at her former employers after the sacking, saying the organisation worked as a team and she did not have the final say on the publication of her story. Media outlets had agreed not to report the largest prisoner swap since the Cold War on Thursday until the 16 people were safe from Russian hands. But the Bloomberg story, which was published at 7.41am eastern time on Thursday, jumped the gun at a time when the Russian plane was still in the air. It was corrected an hour later to say the prisoners had not yet been released. Hand in hand with my editors Ms Jacobs defended herself on social media on Monday and insisted she worked hand in hand with my editors to adhere to editorial standards and guidelines. As a journalist the idea that I would jeopardise the safety of a fellow reporter is deeply upsetting on a level thats difficult to describe. I am so happy Evan Gershkovich and others are home, she said. At no time did I do anything which was knowingly inconsistent with the administrations embargo or that would put anyone involved at risk. She added: Reporters dont have the final say over when a story is published or with what headline. The chain of events here could happen to any reporter tasked with reporting the news. Thats why checks and balances exist within the editorial processes. Before the story was corrected, Silvia Killingsworth, editor, said that it was one of the greatest honours of my career to have helped break this news in a later deleted social media post. John Micklethwait, Bloomberg editor-in-chief, wrote to staff in a memo, which was obtained by CNN, before the sacking. He said the story had been published prematurely and could have endangered the negotiated swap. Even if our story mercifully ended up making no difference, it was a clear violation of the editorial standards which have made this newsroom so trusted around the world, he wrote. In Russia, Pavel Kushnir, an anti-war activist and pianist, died in prison after going on hunger strike in what the EU branded a shocking case of political repression. A Telegram channel with links to Russias security services reported in May that Kushnir had been arrested and accused of inciting terrorist activity after posting anti-war material online. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Reality Check is a Bee series holding officials and organizations accountable and shining a light on their decisions. Have a tip? Email realitycheck@sacbee.com. Five months after Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg made a hefty donation to Assemblyman Kevin McCartys mayoral campaign, he still hasnt endorsed him. But he does support him, his team told The Sacramento Bee. Steinbergs campaign on March 22 donated $4,050 to Assemblyman Kevin McCartys campaign for mayor over the more liberal Flojuane Cofer, city documents show. The donation was public on a city web page, but was made 17 days after the primary election, in the slow period before the general election donations ramp up. Asked by The Bee about the donation, Steinberg confirmed hes supporting McCarty. I support Kevin, Steinberg said in a statement Tuesday. Hes a longtime friend and has the experience and values needed to be a great mayor. Steinbergs team declined to answer a question about why he did not publicly announce his support or why hes not calling it an endorsement. As of Tuesday afternoon there has been no press release, or social media post, and the mayors name has not been added to McCartys long list of endorsements on his campaign website. In contrast, on Aug. 1, McCartys campaign announced on X the endorsement of District Attorney Thien Ho, whos suing the city seeking more criminal citations for the homeless. McCartys campaign referred comment for this story to Steinbergs office. Steinbergs popularity among Sacramentans is unknown. The former Senate pro tem sailed to re-election in 2020, but he didnt have a serious challenger. Then in 2022 voters rejected his ballot measure to change the city government structure to give mayors more power. When Steinberg was elected mayor in 2016, his popularity was high. But since then, the public perception is that the homeless crisis has drastically worsened. A new count shows that although Sacramento homelessness decreased from 2020 to 2022, hitting about 6,600, its still higher than it was in 2019. Steinberg and McCarty both served on the council before serving in the state Legislature. If McCarty wins, he will be following Steinbergs path to come back to the council dais as mayor. Unlike longtime politicians McCarty and Steinberg, Cofer and Steinberg have had few public interactions. But in June 2020, in the wake of the Minneapolis police killing of George Floyd, Cofer famously blasted Steinberg during a meeting saying his proposals for police reform did not go far enough. Steinberg gave another big hint for his pick. On primary election night March 5, Steinberg attended McCartys party at the Green Room in East Sacramento. He did not attend Cofers party. Similar cash on hand Campaign documents filed this week show both Cofer and McCarty have a similar amount of cash on hand $103,000 and $183,000, respectively. Those are relatively low amounts, but dont account for independent expenditure committees created to support and oppose the candidates. The California Apartment Association, typically a big player in local elections, appears to have flipped from opposing McCarty to supporting. On Feb. 16, ahead of the primary, the association donated $15,000 to an independent expenditure committee opposing McCarty for mayor. Then June 26 it donated $13,550 to McCartys campaign. Cofer has said she wants to make a significant change to the citys rent control ordinance to reduce the amount landlords are allowed to raise the rent each year, currently at 10%. The apartment association opposed the creation of the ordinance and would oppose lowering the threshold. Cofer on March 20 received a donation from the Council on American Islamic-Relations and on June 30 from Sacramento Democrats for Justice in Palestine, the new filings show. During the primary, Cofer and McCarty advanced to the general election, while former Councilman Steve Hansen and former state Sen. Richard Pan, the more moderate candidates, did not. The general election will be held Nov. 5. The new mayors term will begin in December. On Sunday, the Medicine Wheel Riders finished their 2,211-mile ride at the annual motorcycle rally in Sturgis, S.D. (Photo/Facebook) For ten days, highways threading through the Western United States have carried the roaring song of motorcycles ridden by Native women on a sacred journey. On Sunday, the Medicine Wheel Riders finished their 2,211-mile ride at the annual motorcycle rally in Sturgis, S.D., completing a trip that charted the shape of a medicine wheel, a symbol in many Native American tribes representing the dimensions of health and life. Bright, multi-colored ribbons trailed their motorcycles, fluttering in the heat and wind, each bearing the name of a Missing or Murdered Indigenous Person (MMIP). The fifth annual Medicine Wheel Ride began on Friday, July 26 at the Chumash Reservation in Southern California and concluded Sunday at the legendary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which draws some half-million bikers in early August each year. The Medicine Wheel Riders say their goal is to raise awareness and promote the healing of those most impacted by the MMIP crisis, which has been called an epidemic, given rise to a federal commission, and sent waves of grief through Native communities across the country. Lisa Rivera (Chichimeca and Yaqui) describes the Medicine Wheel Ride as a prayer. We want to bring medicine, we want to bring healing, we want to offer that, Rivera told Native News Online. Its a prayer, its a journey. In this process, we are still being healed. Sometimes its really hard, but in the same sense, its something youve got to keep doing. The MMIP crisis is prevalent across the country, with Indigenous peoples being murdered at a rate ten times the national average. Homicide is one of the leading causes of death for Native women. While the Bureau of Indian Affairs estimates there are 4,200 unsolved MMIP cases, the actual number is likely higher, Native advocates say. Advocates and lawmakers have identified multiple drivers of the MMIP crisis: egregiously underfunded tribal law enforcement; jurisdictional confusion between tribal, local, state police and the BIA; exclusion of Indigenous people in data; and underwhelming media coverage. Often, Native families whose loved ones have gone missing or were found murdered report a lack of police response; unresolved cases closed without sufficient investigation, and being left to conduct their own investigations while grappling with profound grief. Rivera, Corrine Tuma (Dine) and Luvy Yonnie (Dine) had never met each other when they convened in April 2019 with half-a-dozen other Native Women riders including Medicine Wheel Ride co-founder Lynette Red Cloud Roberts in Albuquerque, N.M. for the first Medicine Wheel Ride. The three women lived thousands of miles apart Rivera in Hawaii, Tuma on the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming, and Yonnie in Arizona. We didnt know each other from anywhere until we met face-to-face that day, Yonnie said. That first year, riders rode from all four directions represented on the medicine wheel North, South, East and West to Topeka, Kan., completing the circle. We didnt know what the outcome would be, but it was amazing, Yonnie said. From there we said, We have got to continue to do this. The next year and each year after, the ride drew hundreds of riders to nearby Bear Butte or Mato Paha in the Lakota language for the final leg of the ride. Bear Butte is a revered sacred ground for ceremony and prayer for many Native American tribes since time immemorial. Riding down Bear Butte with a long line of 200 bikers behind you, it brings tears and chills, Yonnie said. Its very powerful, indescribable. Many of the riders lives have been touched directly by the MMIP crisis. Tuma works at the tribal casino on the Wind River reservation in Wyoming, where Native American people make up about 3.5% of the states population, but represent 15% of the missing persons recorded in the states National Crime Information Center. She recalls the silence that suspended the cacophony of the casino floor the day when a Native co-workers daughter, Jocelyn Wagon, was found murdered in January 2019. It was so quiet, Tuma said. No one talked. Everyone felt the hurt (throughout) the whole casino. Less than a year later, the community was again stunned when Wagons sister, Jade, was found murdered. I carry those girls with me, Tuma said. I ride for those two girls. I ride for all of the others whose hurt I feel. Riveras great-grandmother was found hanged in Mexico; another family member was found dead in a canal. Its been three years since Yonnies son was found dead in the Arizona desert. Yonnie said she has a hard time speaking publicly about what happened to him. There are a lot of whys and no answers, she said. I understand each of us going through the same thing. I hold them all very dear to my heart. Growing up, Yannie rode dirtbikes and ATVs. She dreamed of having a red Harley Davidson Motorcycle that she planned to name Rosie. Now, she has that Harley, but its gray and named Pony. Yonnie is the groups eagle staff carrier, a responsibility and honor often given to protectors and advocates of their community. Throughout the ten-day ride, the women stop at different tribal communities along the way, accepting ribbons to tie to their bikes from families who have lost loved ones to the crisis. Each ribbon is different, with a name and color or symbol representing the lost relative. If they want to, families tie their loved one's ribbons onto a rider's bike at the outset of the ride and untie them when the ride concludes. During one ride, Rivera met a young girl who wanted to tie a ribbon onto her bike to honor her mother. Rivera let her sit on her motorcycle and rev the engine. "I gave her a little smile and as much as I watched her pain and sadness when she throttled it, it was powerful and there were mixed emotions that came with it," Rivera said. "And that is how the ride is." Tribal communities and organizations along the route embrace the riders and offer reprieve from the grind of the pavement and the elements, which can take a toll after hours of riding for days in a row. Hitting the pavement, (dealing with) the elements, working with each other that is the work, Tuma said. Many communities along the way jump up and say, How can we help? This year, several of the stops included a screening of a short documentary about the Medicine Wheel Ride called We Ride For Her, directed by Prairie Rose Seminole and Katrina Lillian Sorento. Tumas voice is full of emotion as describes the last leg of the 10-day, 2,000+ mile journey: riding down the sacred Bear Butte mountain, the air swelling with the powerful tension emanating from the riders. You can feel the presence of the Creator, she said. You know hes listening. He could hear us as we (could) hear our procession of bikes. That mountain is a sacred place, and you can just feel that sacred blessing. About the Author: "Elyse Wild is senior editor for Native News Online and Tribal Business News. " Contact: ewild@indiancountrymedia.com BOSTON (WWLP) Massachusetts has a new salary transparency law, but just how does this law affect employers and employees? Last week, Governor Healey signed a bill into law that would require all employers with 25 or more employees to post pay ranges alongside job openings. Still a potential path forward for economic development bond bill Massachusetts is now the 11th state to require pay transparency from most employers. This law was designed to eliminate unequal pay, pay discrimination, and to address the gender pay gap. The policy, while intended to ensure wage equity, also aims to be leverage employers can use to attract and retain skilled, diverse employees. Labor and Workforce Secretary for the Healey-Driscoll administration, Lauren Jones, highlighted inter-department collaboration in a statement. [This law] demonstrates how working together with government, businesses, labor, and advocates will move us forward in tackling gender and racial wage disparities and inequities within the workplace, said Jones. This new law also garnered support from the Wage Equity Coalition. This law embodies Massachusetts commitment that women and people of color shape and share in the economic engine, said co-chair Evelyn Murphy in a statement. Massachusetts claims lead position in building economic prosperity through equitable treatment of every worker. Unlike many similar wage laws, job applicantsindividually or as a classcannot sue employers for alleged violations. Instead, Attorney General Andrea Campbells office can bring action against violators In most cases, violators will be required to pay a fine. The Attorney Generals office will be conducting a public awareness campaign to ensure that employers are aware of these new regulations in the coming months. The Governor will hold a ceremonial bill signing at the State House on Tuesday. Olivia Ray is a State House reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since April 2024. Follow Olivia on X @OliviaRayMedia and view her bio to see more of her work. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Salem-Keizer Public Schools Superintendent Andrea Castaneda and board Chair Cynthia Richardson attend a board retreat Saturday to prepare for the upcoming school year. Salem-Keizer Public Schools staff are researching whether to ask voters to approve a local-option levy, Superintendent Andrea Castaneda told school board members at their annual retreat Saturday. After a year of rolling budget cuts and a mass layoff, finances are looking rosier at the district, Castaneda said. People need to hear at the outset that this is not another year of reductions, she said. We did what we had to do. This is a year of settling and planning our recovery. Still, the district cant make improvements the community has asked for, such reducing class sizes and restoring cut programs, without additional revenue streams, Castaneda said. Local option levy funding is the only avenue I see to try for class-size reduction, she said. A local-option levy, which is an additional tax paid by property owners, could be on the ballot as soon as the May 20, 2025, election, or board members could aim for a later election, she said. Salem-Keizer School District board members listen to Superintendent Andrea Castaneda during a retreat Saturday. Why has Salem-Keizer Public Schools budget improved? Last month Gov. Tina Kotek proposed changing the way the State School Funds current service level is calculated, increasing school funding statewide by $515 million. The State School Fund provides the majority of funding for K-12 public schools. The current service level is the states estimate of the amount needed to continue existing programs. For Salem-Keizer, that would mean an additional $36 million over the two-year biennium, Castaneda told the board. We cannot count on this funding yet, but we can be grateful for this very significant change, she said. First Vice Chair Karina Guzman Ortiz asks questions during the school board retreat to prepare for the upcoming school year on Saturday in Salem. The district also ended up with $6 million more than projected left over at the end of the school year, boosting its reserve fund to $93 million. Although it will spend some of that reserve this school year, the amount is reasonable, Castaneda said. This is a structural gap I think we can live with right now, she said, referring to the need to spend more than the district will take in this year. It is not ideal, but it is manageable. What would a local-option levy look like in Salem-Keizer Public Schools? Oregon began allowing local-option levies in 1999, Robert Silva, the districts chief operations officer, told the board. The Corvallis School District was the first to win voters approval, in 2001. Now, about 20 Oregon school districts have local option levies, which together raise about $250 million in additional revenue for schools, Silva said. Current levies range from $0.30 to $1.99 per $1,000 in assessed property value, with the most common rate being $1.50, he said. For a home with an assessed value of $300,000, a local option levy rate of $1.50 would translate to an additional $450 in property taxes per year. Salem-Keizer Public Schools has never asked voters to approve a local option levy, Silva said. This is part of the fabric of school funding in Oregon," Castaneda said. It is hard for communities like ours to keep pace. The more we dont have it, the more we are at a competitive disadvantage. Salem-Keizer Superintendent Andrea Castaneda attends the school board retreat to prepare for the upcoming school year on Saturday in Salem. At the meeting, district officials laid out a timeline for placing a measure on the May 20 ballot, while emphasizing they have not decided on a date, or even whether to proceed. The timeline calls for stakeholder engagement and listening sessions from now until November, when the school board would need to adopt a resolution authorizing the measure. From January through May, the district would conduct polling, create informational materials and hold community meetings about the levy. In May, the district would form a political action committee and launch a campaign, including community events. What else is Salem-Keizer Public Schools doing to boost revenue? Castaneda also told board members she wants them to take a more active role in state funding conversations. One of the things I believe were in a good position to do as an organization, through you as the board, is name a legislative agenda explicitly for the new biennium, Castaneda said. We can coalesce in partnership with Oregon School Boards Association and with Coalition of Oregon School Administrators, with other districts, she said. Part of that legislative agenda likely will mirror things that other large districts are asking for, Castaneda said, while other pieces may be specific to Salem-Keizer. For our board to publicly and clearly adopt a legislative agenda will give us what we need to participate in advocacy around state funding as we lead up into the new biennium, she said. Tracy Loew covers education at the Statesman Journal. Send comments, questions and tips: tloew@statesmanjournal.com or 503-399-6779. Follow her on Twitter at @Tracy_Loew This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Salem-Keizer Public Schools super floats local-option levy This is a developing story. ABC4 will update this post as new information becomes available. SOUTH SALT LAKE, Utah (ABC4) The Salt Lake County Sheriffs Office announced on Monday that the death of a corrections officer is being investigated as suspicious. Deputy Marbella Martinez, 25, was found dead on Thursday, Aug. 1, and the Tooele Police Department is investigating her death as suspicious, according to a press release from the Salt Lake County Sheriffs Office. READ NEXT: Who is Taberon Honie? A timeline of the crime, recent proceedings that led to his scheduled execution An image of Deputy Marbella Martinez, who was found dead on Aug. 1. 2024. MArtinezs death is being investigated as suspicious. (Courtesy: Salt Lake County Sheriffs Office) An image of Deputy Marbella Martinez, who was found dead on Aug. 1. 2024. MArtinezs death is being investigated as suspicious. (Courtesy: Salt Lake County Sheriffs Office) An image of Deputy Marbella Martinez, who was found dead on Aug. 1. 2024. MArtinezs death is being investigated as suspicious. (Courtesy: Salt Lake County Sheriffs Office) Martinez was found just after 8 a.m. on Aug. 1, when officers were responding to a home for a welfare check, according to the Tooele City Police Department. Officials previously identified Martinezs father Hector Martinez-Ayala, 54 as a person of interest in the case, given the evidence and clues gathered by detectives. As of Aug. 5, officials had not yet located Martinez-Ayala. Deputy Martinez was a dedicated member of our Sheriffs Office family. In her short time with us, she became a cherished friend and an integral part of our team, Sheriff Rosie Rivera said. Her untimely and tragic death is a profound loss for us all. Martinez was sworn in as a corrections officer officer on Jan. 11, 2024, the sheriffs office said. Peer support and empoloyee assistance programs have been initiated to help employees affected by the loss of Martinez. Our thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones during this heartbreaking time, Rivera said. We hope that the investigation will provide answers and some measure of justice for our Deputy and her family. There is no further information at this time. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) It was a fire like nothing the island of Maui had ever experienced. One of the worst environmental disasters in modern history, the wildfire on Maui last August devastated countless communities, notably the historic town of Lahaina, leaving a trail of destruction that people are still trying to recover from. Theres a lot of trauma that came that day that stayed with all of us, said Kathleen Machado, a survivor of the Maui fire. She escaped the inferno with her life, but her home was swept into the ocean by flames and unstoppable winds. Its not just your home, its your whole community, its done. Lahaina wont ever be the same. It wont ever be the same, said Machado. Nearing the one-year anniversary of the wildfires sparking, Maui locals say they still need help to rebuild and fast. Wake surfer rides waves in fight against childhood cancer While a $4 billion settlement was reached between those who have lost loved ones, Hawaiian Electric and the state for the losses, advocates say time is running out for those hanging on to what was a little piece of paradise. Some groups in San Diego, like the San Diego Loves Maui Association, are stepping up in the meantime to hopefully accelerate this aid. When your businesses cant run there on Maui, when your employees are impacted, because they dont have a job, said Joann Fields, who is involved in the organization. However, Machado noted that one of the most pressing needs for survivors is simply stable housing long term a necessity that some are still struggling to obtain as they rebuild their communities. Fields said that the association will be heading to Irvine later this week for the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders Summit, which seeks to connect underserved communities with federal leaders and resources. At the summit, the San Diego Loves Maui Association will be pushing a new initiative to foster kinship and mutual aid by providing financial assistance to those who help survivors of disasters, whether its by opening up ones home to those displaced or buying essentials like groceries and toiletries to donate to those who experienced income loss. We need to raise the awareness that our communities in Lahaina are still in need, Fields said in a conversation with KUSI Monday night. Video player above: Maui recovery efforts, one year later. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) Vice President Kamala Harris has officially unveiled Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate for the upcoming presidential election, and San Diegos Democratic officials are already expressing support for the choice. The announcement, which was made on Tuesday in advance of Harris first major swing-state campaigning blitz, brought to an end two weeks of anticipation in Democratic circles surrounding the pick amid her rapid ascension to become the partys presidential nominee. Walz, 60, emerged in online chatter about who should step into the role as Harris running mate as a dark horse contender, eventually becoming a finalist alongside early veepstakes favorites, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly (D). In an Instagram post and text message to supporters announcing the pick, Harris praised his support for middle class families, as well as his personal history serving in the National Guard and working as a teacher. Who is Tim Walz? Harris picks Minnesota gov. as running mate I share this background both because its impressive in its own right, and because you see in no uncertain terms how it informs his record, Harris wrote on Instagram. But what impressed me most about Tim is his deep commitment to his family: Gwen, Gus, and Hope, she added, referencing Walzs wife and children. Doug and I look forward to working with him and Gwen to build an administration that reflects our shared values. San Diego elected officials have already begun to rally around the vice presidential pick. Harris-Walz 2024! I know [Walz] will be a fantastic vice president Im so excited to cast my ballot for Kamala and Tim in November, Rep. Sara Jacobs said in a tweet shortly after the announcement. The representative followed her first statement with another post on X about twenty minutes later, featuring several pictures of the Minnesota governor and the caption, The vibes are immaculate. Rep. Mike Levin also immediately backed Walz as Harris running mate, saying in a post on X that he is excited to see [Walz] selected to be our next Vice President. In the fight for the future of our country, Tim has what it takes to defeat the MAGA extremist Trump-Vance ticket and drive our nation forward, he continued. Reps. Juan Vargas and Scott Peters, the remaining two members of San Diegos congressional caucus who serve as super-delegates at the upcoming Democratic National Convention, have yet to publicly comment on her running mate. Although Vargas campaign X account did repost Harris announcement that Walz would be joining her on the presidential ticket. Peters, who was one of the first San Diego elected officials to join calls for President Joe Biden to step aside from the 2024 race, similarly has already endorsed Harris candidacy on social media. Outside San Diegos Washington, D.C. elected officials, local leaders have also expressed support for Harris pick. Mayor Todd Gloria, who met Walz at a conference in 2022, described the Minnesota governor as a great choice in a post on X. I was instantly impressed by his warmth, intellect and accomplishments. Plus he loves San Diego! Gloria recalled of their interaction. Lets get to work and ensure he and Kamala win this November. The support by local officials echoed those by other high-profile Democratic leaders in California. In a post on X, Gov. Gavin Newsom, who was a top campaign surrogate for Biden before he bowed out, said Walz was a person who is about doing the right thing. Whether its free school meals or standing up against gun violence hes never been intimidated, he continued. Hes about honor and decency, and is exactly the right pick in a campaign about daylight vs darkness. Kamala Harris, Tim Walz to appear at first rally as running mates Senate candidate Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) also described the Minnesota governor as the perfect complement to the Harris ticket in a statement. With his plain-spoken demeanor, he knows how to advocate common sense policies that improve the lives of all Americans, he said. However, former President Donald Trump and his campaign have already criticized the choice, decrying the governor in a campaign email as potentially the worst VP in history. Trumps running mate Sen. JD Vance, also described Walzs record in politics as a joke. Its no surprise that San Francisco Liberal Kamala Harris wants West Coast wannabe Tim Walz as her running-mate Walz has spent his governorship trying to reshape Minnesota in the image of the Golden State, Trump campaign press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement. Neither the state Republican party nor the partys local chapter have made statements on Harris running mate announcement. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. New Zealand is at significant risk of missing its 2030 and 2035 domestic emissions reduction targets, said the Climate Commission, as the country attempts to scrap its environmental policies and instead prioritise heavily emitting sectors to boost its economy. Last week (30 July), New Zealands He Pou a Rangi Climate Change Commission published its first emissions reduction monitoring report in which it said that while the country is on track to meet its first 202225 emissions budget, there are "significant risks" to meeting future emissions budgets and reduction targets. New Zealand has taken a U-turn on its green policies in the past year. After being elected in 2023, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced that his government would reverse the countrys ban on oil and gas exploration and promote more mining operations. The governments move away from environmental priorities is to increase its exports and support its flailing economy, which Resources Minster Shane Jones deemed the worst set of circumstances that I can remember in my adult life. In March, New Zealands economy registered year-on-year growth of just 0.3%. Exports are a significant part of New Zealands economy, contributing to a quarter of its total revenue. A new set of energy priorities The Luxon government proposed in June the Crown Minerals Act Amendment Bill that will reverse the countrys 2018 ban on offshore oil and gas exploration. The bill, set to be in place in the second half of 2024, aims to decrease coal imports, increase fuel exports and keep energy prices low for the public and small businesses. The legislation is set to expand the countrys oil and gas industry amid global efforts to regulate the sector to aid the energy transition. The government also plans to expand its mining industry, setting a new target to double the countrys mineral exports by 2045 with an investment of NZ$2bn ($1.18bn) to open ten new mining facilities. The new mining policy will make it easier to undertake small-scale gold mining activities, fast track consenting processes for new mining operations and promote the prosperity, exploration and mining of raw materials in New Zealand. For Jones, this policy will counter the countrys previous excessive levels of environmental protection. Jones highlighted that the policy was long overdue, adding that the re-emergence of the mineral sector was driven by quite a brutal understanding of what our economic situation is. Cautious reception The government has emphasised the necessity of oil and gas, at least in the near term, due to the intermittent nature of renewables. Indeed, 80% of the electricity supply in New Zealand is powered by renewable energy, predominantly hydro and geothermal power, but only 30% of the countrys total energy consumption comes from renewables. Story continues Environmental groups are concerned that if New Zealand becomes reliant on oil and gas exploration to keep its economy and energy security afloat, the country will be disincentivised to continue increasing its renewable energy output. The Green Party opposed the governments ruling, stating that the country could have a more sustainable and efficient economy if it prioritised clean energy. "The Government is tipping oil and gas onto the climate crisis fire, lining the pockets of fossil fuel companies, while everyone else will pick up the bill, said Green Party co-leader Chloe Swarbrick in a statement. The party also expressed concern that other countries will follow suite. Sara Walton, the University of Otagos Climate Change Research Network co-director, told Reuters: "It is more important than ever for companies to be reducing their emissions in order to remain competitive internationally in terms of supply chains. Critics are also wary of the new bills expansion of mining operations increasing the likelihood of approvals for seabed and other deep-sea mining practises, which are highly contested due to the potential damage caused to wildlife. The government said it is working on a climate plan that will include the planting of more trees, increasing renewable energy supply and more investment in clean technologies. However, critics are yet to be convinced as the government's U-turn on green policies has seemingly already signalled a transition against the countrys green initiatives, with Air New Zealand dropping its 2030 emission targets last week (30 July) after delaying the launch of its new cleaner aircraft citing higher prices of green fuel, becoming the first major carrier to drop its climate goals. "New Zealand climate policies at risk, Climate Commission says " was originally created and published by Power Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Amy Alexander is the author of "Uncovering Race: A Black Journalist's Story of Reporting and Reinvention." Illustration: Benjamin Currie/HuffPost; Photo: Steve Barrett This column is part of HuffPosts She the People series, stories by Black women exploring Kamala Harris historic candidacy. To read more, visit our hub. During the past two weeks, media pundits, journalists, historians and internet wags have been banging on about Vice President Kamala Harris unique profile as a presidential candidate, but her most compelling status, in my book, is as a member of a small, singular group of women who are firsts. Im talking about the San Francisco Firsts, a list that includes most prominently House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi; San Francisco Mayor London Breed, the first Black woman to hold that position; and the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the first woman elected mayor of San Francisco. Now Harris casts an even brighter glow on our shared hometown. Long a cynosure city, San Francisco has in recent years become something of a punching bag for right-wing Bad Faith actors nationwide, and for billionaire Big Tech moguls who bash the the city and current elected officials for its supposed hyper-liberal policies the very same city that provided them with the physical infrastructure and cultural cachet to build and distribute their dubious machines. For Black women who are San Francisco natives, like me, decidedly unwelcomed in the problematic realm of rich, white techie arrivistes who beset the city beginning in the 2010s, driving up the cost of living and gentrifying formerly affordable neighborhoods, Harris and the other female officials who were firsts in their elected positions have been role models for decades, primarily for their dedication to the public interest. During the two weeks since President Joe Bidens announcement that he was handing off his Democratic presidential candidacy to Harris, Ive toggled between inchoate anxiety and sheer joy at finally being able to envision a Black woman Bay Area native leading the most powerful nation in the world. Though the concept of representation has gotten co-opted by global corporate brands and craven politicians nationwide, it also is the case that Harris genuinely will be a transformational figure should she manage to pull off a win in November, especially given the high stakes at hand for marginalized people coast-to-coast. Equally important is the fact that Harris represents a point of pride and validation in what I and many of my Black women contemporaries experienced as San Franciscos most potent secret weapon: A mid-20th century civic environment that genuinely practiced and fostered egalitarianism, however imperfectly. First Among A Badass Group Of Firsts Im a native San Franciscan, born one year before Harris was born in nearby Oakland. I have closely observed, reported on and written about her over many years, including a Q&A in 2009. To my cohort of middle- and working-class Black San Francisco natives who came of age there during the late 1980s when cocaine flooded California and the states Republican elected leaders ramped up draconian three strikes sentencing guidelines and gleefully tagged thousands of low-level, corner-boy dope slingers as gang members in order to hit them with enhanced sentencing rules that sent them to the pen for decades for nonviolent crimes Harris compassionate, pragmatic reset of the district attorneys office was welcomed. Now, weeks after Biden endorsed Harris, we cautiously dream about a genuinely beloved community. The prospect of Harris as president inspires real hope that her measured approach to criminal justice will translate into the national incarceration framework, where now millions of Black, Latino and poor people still languish in jails and prisons while also struggling with mental health issues that shamefully have been allowed to escalate unimpeded over decades. As district attorney of San Francisco from 2004 to 2011, her sentencing rates and overall track record drew praise and criticism from across the spectrum, but to me, that is par for the course in a parochial town that historically has been politically liberal but also moderate bordering on conservative when it comes to elected leadership roles, particularly, the DAs office prior to Harris groundbreaking election in 2003. To some of us Black women who are San Francisco natives of a certain age, Pelosi, Feinstein, Harris and the other first women modeled a disdain for egomaniacal displays and, stylistically, tastefully timeless fashions, strategic deployment of wit, intellect and of low-key ruthlessness in professional environments. Harris and Pelosi and the other firsts are courageous and work in service of the greater good, which sounds corny but happens to be how many of us were raised in San Francisco of the 1960s through the onset of the TechPocalypse that ramped up in the mid-2010s. Even before the dramatic events of the past few weeks, I had been thinking of this tightknit group of San Francisco women in politics, albeit without knowing that Biden would voluntarily drop his reelection bid in July. SF Made Harris Tough, Strategic, Compassionate When I was in high school in the Sunset District, I learned that Dianne Feinstein, then a San Francisco supervisor, had tried to stanch the bleeding from Supervisor Harvey Milks body after he was shot by an enraged white male former elected official in November 1978 in a City Hall office. Dan White, the gunman, also killed Mayor George Moscone on that November day, a shocking, scary event that is seared into the DNA of many of us who were around at that time. San Francisco City Hall, for me, forever is associated with both my hometowns tremendous history of economic and cultural might and of how political fervor, especially misogyny and racism, can spin into lethal actions. In my writings about Harris since 2009, Ive tried to avoid both unduly hyping her political chops and unduly criticizing her technical prosecutorial and political skills. Ive done this not out of blind fealty to Harris but because I am intimately familiar with the tightrope she has successfully walked in her career and the unfairly disproportionate degree of doubt and outright invective she has received since 2003, when she was first elected DA in San Francisco. Also, I am deeply familiar with the prejudices and failings of many of those in contemporary American journalism when it comes to covering women, in particular, Black women and especially prominent women of color from San Francisco who attain national profiles. Which brings me back to the courage of Harris and her fellow firsts from San Franciscos political scene. The accurate micro-aspects of Kamala Harris California foundation specifically, how Black people in my home state are simultaneously celebrated and vilified by institutions and her place in a small, powerful group of Democratic women elected in Northern California, are largely unknown to national journalists now swarming her profile. Alas, most national journalists parachuting in to cover any Harris-related story during the past 20 years mostly relied on bad reporting by two decades worth of incompetent white San Francisco journalists, which national journalists then superficially refresh, regurgitate, repeat. But despite how dismally the media mightve covered her in the past and notwithstanding the pernicious rhetoric we all witnessed the other day when the idiotic, racist 45th president spoke at the annual meeting of the National Association of Black Journalists I am hopeful that the establishment U.S. news business in 2024 can get its act together and deliver culturally competent reporting on Harris and this important moment. Harris might be a catalyst that breaks the American caste system. As the saying goes, journalists write the first draft of history, and I am sad to report that during my 30-year career as a regional and national journalist, the sector has not only failed to consistently cover the systems and institutions that perniciously oppress vulnerable populations, but also that in its own shop, it practices inequitable decision-making that inhibits the ascension of qualified, dedicated non-traditional practitioners. Still, I truly am cautiously optimistic that now, perhaps, more experienced journalists will make proverbial deeper dives not only into Harris professional foundation in San Francisco but also properly contextualizes how the other elected women firsts from our mutual hometown who are her mentors and contemporaries have informed her trajectory and her current status. Im excited at the possibility that Harris might emerge as the most consequential first among this stellar group of San Franciscos female firsts. (KRON) A woman who was nine-months-pregnant was slain inside her home in San Mateo on Sunday evening, police said. The mother and her unborn baby were both pronounced deceased at the scene. The victims live-in boyfriend, 33-year-old Andrew Coleman, fled from the home before police arrived, according to the San Mateo Police Department. The victim was without a pulse when SMPD officers were initially called to the home at 6:01 p.m. Sunday on the 1300 block of South B Street. We were also requested for crowd control as several family members were on scene and despondent, the police department wrote. Upon arrival, we met with paramedics who informed us the 37-year-old female victim, who was approximately 9 months pregnant, was pronounced deceased with obvious signs of death present, as was the unborn child, the police department wrote. After interviewing witnesses and finding evidence at the scene, detectives quickly identified Coleman as the prime homicide suspect. Detectives were able to track the boyfriends whereabouts as he was driving toward Southern California. Missing mother found dead in Santa Cruz Mountains, daughter rescued The Los Angeles Police Department, California Highway Patrol, and West Covina Police Department assisted in the search for Coleman. After a five-hour manhunt, the accused killer was taken into custody by WCPD. San Mateo police officers then flew down to Southern California to interview him. SMPD wrote, The San Mateo Police Department understands the seriousness of domestic violence and we want to help victims break the cycle. If you are a survivor of domestic violence or know someone who needs access to resources, ask for help. CORAs services are designed to provide safety, support, and healing. Community Overcoming Relationship Abuse (CORA) can be contacted by calling 800-300-1080, or go to their website. To report domestic violence to police, call SMPD at 650-522-7700, or dial 911 for in-progress violence. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. SOUTH CAROLINA (WSAV) The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) has issued emergency orders for those who live in the states eight coastal counties to take preventative measures for their property amid the onslaught of Tropical Storm Debby. The department announced on Monday that the orders allow for minor renourishment, sand scraping and the installation of sandbags as a precaution for the incoming storm. These emergency orders are effective 30 days from today, however, if after that time a structure is still considered in imminent danger, property owners may request an individual emergency order to extend the time for protection, said Chris Stout, Chief of SCDESs Bureau of Coastal Management. SCDES has also issued an order for marine debris removal to allow the public to remove boats and debris from Critical Areas of the state. The agencys Bureau of Coastal Management is coordinating with coastal county officials, and based on the storms impacts, will determine the need for emergency authorizations for the reconstruction or repair of coastal structures in the tidelands Critical Areas. After the storm passes, SCDES implores residents to report damages to beachfront structures (such as seawalls, revetments, walkovers and erosion) via the MyCoast website and mobile app. The latest on Tropical Storm Debby Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said in a recent interview he will continue to push for the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) in elections. Look, deepfakes are a serious, serious threat to this democracy. If people can no longer believe that the person theyre hearing speak is actually the person, this democracy has suffered it will suffer in ways that we have never seen before, Schumer said last week in an interview with NBC News. And if people just get turned off to democracy, Lord knows what will happen. With fewer than 100 days left until the November election, Schumer spoke to the outlet about the impact AI could have on the election process. He said he hopes to bring more legislation about AI to the Senate floor in the coming months. His recent push for regulation of the emerging technology in elections comes after billionaire Elon Musk a shared a fake video of Vice President Harris using AI to mimic her voice and spew insults about her campaign and President Biden who dropped out of the 2024 race last month and subsequently endorsed the vice president. It also follows a robocall earlier in the election cycle that used a fake voice resembling Biden that pushed voters to sit out the New Hampshire primary. AI-generated political ads have also broken into the 2024 election. Last year, the Republican National Committee released an entirely AI-generated ad meant to show a dystopian future under a second Biden term. It employed fake but realistic photos showing boarded-up storefronts, armored military patrols in the streets and waves of immigrants creating panic. Schumer said in the interview Thursday that the deepfake AI bills were supported by both sides of the aisle while in committee and called on Republicans to continue to support the effort. They had some bipartisan support in the committee, Sen. [Amy] Klobuchar did a good job getting through, and one of them just eliminates all AI in commercials and solicitations, he told the outlet. And the other at least has disclosures, so you know that AI is used. These are American bills. Were going to fight because democracy is at such risk. Were going to fight to get these done in every way that we can. And we hope our Republican friends will relate, as I said that we do have some Republican support, the Senate leader said. This is not a Democratic or Republican issue. Democracy is at risk if these deepfakes are allowed to prevail. The Senate Rules Committee cleared a trio of bills earlier this year to target AI in elections, including the Protect Elections from Deceptive AI Act and the AI Transparency in Elections Act. The Protect Elections from Deceptive AI Act would ban using AI to create deceptive content that falsely depicts federal candidates in political ads to influence elections. The AI Transparency in Elections Act would require disclosures on ads that have content generated by AI. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Scientists make game-changing discovery that could help protect from dangerous insect-borne diseases: 'Very unusual for these species' Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a hopeful tool in the fight against mosquito-borne illnesses like Zika and dengue. Interesting Engineering reported on their research, which found that cross-breeding the species Aedes aegypti a primary carrier of these types of diseases with Aedes mascarensis and then crossing them back with one parent resulted in offspring that were unable to reproduce 10% of the time. The resulting progeny were all genetically male, though they possessed both male and female traits, making them intersex. The researchers hope to use their research to help create all-male mosquito populations, which could aid in the fight against mosquito-borne illnesses. They could also use their findings to identify genes that influence female behavior, which could further help curb the spread of these diseases. "What we found is that the morphological abnormalities start in the pupal stage during development, and in adults, the most severe cases have both testes and ovaries in one individual, which is very unusual for these species," Igor Sharakhov, one of the study's authors, said in a press release. "Now we want to understand what causes these abnormalities." As the planet continues to overheat, scientists have predicted a spike in mosquito-borne illnesses in the future. For instance, malaria is expected to widen its geographical range and increase in incidence, according to the United Nations. Already, this life-threatening disease kills about one million people each year. Meanwhile, studies on West Nile virus have shown that warmer temperatures associated with an overheating planet can accelerate mosquito development, biting rates, and the incubation of this disease in these insects. And the spread of dengue, another life-threatening virus carried by mosquitoes, reached a record high in the Americas in early 2024. Warmer temperatures also carry another risk factor when it comes to mosquitoes more frequent flooding, which can create the perfect breeding grounds for these bloodsuckers. For instance, the Houston area was inundated with more mosquitoes than usual following weeks of heavy rains that resulted in the accumulation of more standing water. Amid this growing health threat, countries and scientists are scrambling to find solutions. For instance, the African nation of Cabo Verde was certified as a malaria-free country after a diligent effort that included expanded diagnosis, early treatment, and the reporting and investigating of all cases. Meanwhile, Djibouti employed a somewhat controversial but effective method to control malaria releasing genetically modified all-male mosquitoes that kill the offspring of human-biting, disease-spreading female mosquitoes before they reach maturity. These mosquitoes have previously been deployed in Brazil and Florida. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Scientists issue warning about the future of fireflies: 'They've been valued and celebrated for centuries' Fireflies are not just beautiful insects; they also play an important role in their ecosystems. Beloved for their glow and significance in habitats, scientists are concerned about what the heating planet will do to their survival. What's happening? Firefly populations in the eastern United States are becoming vulnerable to the impacts of our warming climate. In an article from the Chicago Tribune, scientists explained why. "Weather and climate appear to be, at least in general, the most important variables for predicting firefly abundance and firefly population status across the eastern United States," Darin McNeil, lead author of a study being conducted on fireflies, stated to the Tribune. While short-term periods of warmer weather can benefit firefly populations, long-term heating patterns will ultimately have a negative impact. The warmer weather can cause heightened periods of droughts and flooding, both of which are extremes that would interfere with the firefly larvae stage, making it difficult for the larvae to survive, as per the Tribune. Additionally, human activities associated with negative environmental impacts, like the use of pesticides and artificial light, also negatively impact fireflies. Why are firefly populations important? Fireflies play an important role in their ecosystems. As larvae, they eat a lot, making them natural predators of other pests like slugs and snails. This also makes them a great natural pesticide in agriculture, as scientists highlighted in the Tribune article. In ecosystems, there exists a food web an intricate system of food chains that naturally balances species populations. When one species' population is impacted, like fireflies, it can have a ripple effect throughout an entire ecosystem, wreaking havoc for other species, as explained by the Xerces Society's report on fireflies. When ecosystems collapse, there can be cascading impacts like increased risks of flooding from soil erosion and food shortages from failed agriculture, which have major effects on human society, as highlighted in The World Counts. Fireflies are also iconic for their flashing bodies, and have inspired "art, literature, and cultural traditions," as per Xerces. "They've been valued and celebrated for centuries," added Candace Fallon, senior researcher at Xerces Society, per the Tribune. A declining firefly population stands to make the magic of their light an event of the past. What's being done about firefly populations? There are a few practical steps that can be done at the individual level to protect firefly populations. One of the best ways to do so is to plant a native plant lawn in lieu of a grass lawn. Fireflies love native plants as they provide places to forage and live, as per the Tribune. You can also avoid raking your leaves and turn off outdoor lights at night, as artificial light can interfere with firefly mating processes. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) South Dakota leaders are reacting to Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz being named Kamala Harris running mate. Harris made the announcement Tuesday morning in a post on Instagram and in texts to supporters. South Dakota Democratic Party Chair Shane Merrill said in a news release Walz will be a great running mate and is a proven leader. He provided free school meals for students, something South Dakotas Governor refuses to do, Merrill said in a news release. Hes shown that he can work across party lines, including when he flipped his district for US Congress. And, with a slim Democratic majority in the Minnesota legislature, hes worked on bipartisan policies for the betterment of his state. Abortion opponents adjusting as issue likely to make the November ballot He has been a staunch advocate for reproductive rights and defended voting rights. Hes a former teacher who understands the struggles our educators and schools face today. He also grew up in a small town and knows what our rural areas need to thrive, Merrill said, who added he has ties to Butte, Nebraska were Walz graduated high school. On social media, Republican Gov. Kristi Noem criticized the Minnesota governor. Walz is no leader. Hes a radical. I served with him in Congress. He pretended to be moderate, then showed his true extremist colors as soon as he became Governor, Noem said. South Dakota has been kicking Minnesotas butt economically for years. Last year, nearly 7,000 Minnesotans moved to South Dakota because Walz took his peoples Freedom away. Harris-Walz will be the most radical left-wing ticket in American history. Walz was first elected Governor in 2018 and won re-election in 2022. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. Search for man and woman wanted on murder charges after a shooting, SC sheriff says A search is underway for a South Carolina man and woman who are wanted on murder charges following a Sunday morning shooting, according to the Sumter County Sheriffs Office. Rembert residents Terone Justin McCray, 35, and Nia Laprece Wright, 28, are facing charges connected to the death of 32-year-old Jaquen Marquel Jefferson, the sheriffs office said in a news release. Jefferson, also a Rembert resident, was a passenger in a vehicle that was hit by gunfire while driving on Dinkins Mill Road at about 6 a.m. Sunday, according to the release. Deputies responded to the shooting and found Jefferson was unresponsive, the sheriffs office said. Jefferson was taken to Prisma Health Tuomey hospital where he died, Sumter County Coroner Robbie Baker said Monday. No other injuries were reported. After interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence, deputies learned that before the shooting, McCray and Wright argued with Jefferson, and made threats, assaulted the victim, and brandished firearms in the parking lot of an area business, according to the sheriffs office. Information about why McCray and Wright were arguing with Jefferson was not available, and there was no word if they knew each other prior to Sundays incident. The sheriffs office called the shooting an isolated incident. Anyone who knows where McCray and Wright are, or has information about the shooting, is asked to call 911, CrimeStoppers at 888-CRIME-SC or submit an online tip. The sheriffs office said McCray and Wright should not be approached if seen. These suspects will feel the full weight of law enforcement from the Sumter County Sheriffs Office until they are apprehended. I would advise them to turn themselves in immediately, Sheriff Anthony Dennis said in the release. No one can believe they will bring gun violence to our county and escape justice. Kamala Harris husband, Doug Emhoff, shared a heartfelt message with Tim Walzs wife in a phone call on Tuesday following the announcement that the Minnesota governor will be Harris running mate. In a post on X captioned Welcome to the team, Gwen. Ive got your back, the second gentleman captured a phone call that he had with Walzs wife and shared words of support, emphasizing that he was in the same position a few years ago. Gwen, I remember getting this call four years ago, he said, reflecting on when President Joe Biden selected Harris to be his vice president. I actually know what youre going through right now. But the good news is, Ive already been through it. So just like Dr. Biden was there for me Im going to be there for you, and were going to do this together. Harris selected Walz to be her running mate on Tuesday, choosing him over Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who were reportedly vetted as potential vice presidential candidates. She and Walz were slated to speak Tuesday night at a rally in Philadelphia. According to the video, Emhoff and Walzs wife, Gwen, will be joining them at the rally. Related... A second Iranian attack on Israel would likely dwarf its first Iran may conclude it needs to strike Israel with a larger salvo than it did in April. Iran and its allies are seeking retaliation after two killings as the risk of a regional war grows. "If Iran wants to maintain deterrence, it has to scale up its responses," an expert said. Iran has repeatedly vowed it will attack Israel in response to the assassination of Hamas' political leader in Tehran on July 31. Its main proxy, Hezbollah in Lebanon, has also vowed to join Iran to avenge Israel's killing of one of its most senior commanders, Fuad Shukr, in Beirut the day before. If Iran and its allies want to show Israel the killings have a cost, they will likely try to catch Israel's defenses off guard or to overwhelm them suggesting an even larger and more dangerous confrontation than their April barrage. The killing of Hamas' Ismail Haniyeh was a humiliation for Iran and Israelis wait anxiously to see what form of revenge Iran may take. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Sunday that an attack could come within 24-48 hours. However, in a Monday briefing, Biden's national security team said it remains unclear when exactly Iran and Hezbollah will attack. Iran directly attacked Israel for the first time in April, two weeks after Israel assassinated Iranian paramilitary commanders at an Iranian consulate annex in Damascus, Syria. That attack consisted of over 300 drones and missiles. It was telegraphed days earlier and the overwhelming majority of the projectiles were tracked and intercepted by Israel with the help of the US, Britain, France and Jordan. Israel responded on April 19 with a single pinprick strike against the radar of an Iranian air defense system near Iran's Natanz enrichment facility. "My sources suggest that the Iranian regime intends the attack to cause more surprise this time," Arash Azizi, senior lecturer in history and political science at Clemson University and author of "The Shadow Commander: Soleimani, the US, and Iran's Global Ambitions" told Business Insider. "There are many internal debates about this with some pushing against the idea of an attack or trying to keep it limited." "Iran is indicating that it wants to bring about a larger attack this time around," Azizi said. "It appears that this is definitely what some are pushing for, but they might still be outvoted in the National Security Council or pressured otherwise." "It's not clear how much damage Iran wants to bring with the attack and how much damage it can bring," Azizi added."This is part of what's being deliberated upon in Tehran right now." The Iran analyst also noted the upcoming Shiite pilgrimage of Arbaeen may influence Iran's timeline. Beginning on August 25 this year, the ritual sees millions of Shiite Iranian pilgrims traveling to Iraq's shrine city of Karbala, many of them on foot. "I think it will have to be on a larger scale than the April attack because the Israeli strike was more significant," James Devine, associate professor in the Department of Politics and International Relations at Mount Allison University, told BI. "If Iran wants to maintain deterrence, it has to scale up its responses to Israel's attacks," Devine said. "If the response stays the same, or is smaller, there is no reason for Israel not to escalate its attacks on Iranian targets and territory in the future." Israeli defenses like the Iron Dome were supported by US-fired interceptors during an Iranian barrage in April. MENAHEM KAHANA/AFP via Getty Images Aiming for more damage Another risk is that the attack could be multi-directional. In addition to Hezbollah, Iran's other regional proxies, such as the Houthis in Yemen and the militias in Iraq and Syria are expected to join Tehran's attack. They supported Iran's April attack, albeit with limited strikes. The Houthis struck Tel Aviv for the first time using a drone on July 19. Israel responded by bombing Yemen's Hodeidah port the following day. "Hezbollah will likely play a more active role by firing several but not many guided ballistic missiles at Israeli targets in northern Israel, probably including some ballistic missile defense sites," Farzin Nadimi, a defense and security analyst and senior fellow of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, told BI. "The Houthis will probably continue to play a supporting role." Devine also believes the Houthis may participate in an attack alongside Iraqi militias but noted that Tehran has "remained clear that it does not want the situation to escalate into a regional war" and remains focused on deterrence. "Nevertheless, they will likely want to structure the attack so it does more damage," Devine said. "Therefore, it may not be as telegraphed as the first. It may include parallel attacks from multiple directions and some closer launch points." Tehran may also restrict its attacks to military targets rather than civilian areas to reduce the risk the tit-for-tat strikes trigger an all-out war. "It is also possible that an Israeli embassy somewhere will be targeted," Devine said. "Tehran has said the strike must be against Israeli territory, but embassies as we saw with the April crisis, are considered to be national territory by the Iranians. But this is just a guess on my part." Devine and Azizi are skeptical that Hezbollah, despite having its red line crossed in Beirut, would risk attacking Tel Aviv and trigger a major retaliation that would threaten Hezbollah's arsenal, which consists of up to 150,000 surface-to-surface rockets and missiles. "A Hezbollah strike in Tel Aviv killing significant numbers of civilians would quite possibly precipitate a full-out war on the Israeli-Lebanese border the sort of situation Iran has said it wants to avoid," Devine said. Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr was killed in an Israeli strike in Beirut in an attack that the group has vowed to avenge. Marwan Naamani/picture alliance via Getty Images What happens next The scale of the Iranian attacks is drawing in the US military to play defense, and it's increasingly possible that some Iran-backed militants could target US forces in the region during a large attack. On Monday, a rocket attack carried out by Iran-backed militias on Iraq's Ain al Asad Airbase injured at least five American troops. "The fact that the regime has openly declared US complicity in the assassination of Haniyeh means that they're likely considering attacking US forces as well," Azizi said. How Israel would retaliate for any Iranian attack would likely depend on certain factors. "If the coming Iranian attack causes Israeli casualties, they are likely to want to respond harshly," Azizi said. "But they might be restrained by the US and other sides whose priority is avoiding an all-out regional war." On the other hand, Israel may not necessarily wait until Iran strikes. "It is also possible for Israel to conduct preemptive strikes on Iran before Iran gets to attack," Azizi said. "If Israel wanted to truly up the ante, it could strike Iranian refineries, which would cause a major crisis in Iran." "There is a chance that the IDF has already thought about these plans, especially since the new phase of hostilities began in April." Devine believes Israel's response will depend on the "amount of damage and casualties" any Iranian attack ultimately causes. "Iran did very little damage the first time, so it is a very low bar to clear," Devine said. "If Iran is more aggressive than expected, or there is an accident, and there are significant civilian casualties, or Israel's defenses come off looking inadequate, Israel's response could be severe." An unprecedented Iranian attack could lead to an unprecedented Israeli response. "Israel will likely try to retaliate more strongly than April 19, especially if they suffer casualties or a significant building is destroyed by Iran," The Washington Institute's Nadimi said. "In that case, some of Iran's nuclear sites will likely be targeted as well." Read the original article on Business Insider In a serene Serbian village two hours' drive from the capital Belgrade, Sunday dawned to the sound of brass orchestras, marking the climactic finale of the 63rd Guca trumpet festival. Local and foreign festival-goers poured into the streets to dance to the traditional Serbian music, as the first rays of sunlight cast a golden hue over the village, nestled among rolling hills and mountains. Every summer, this renowned international celebration pays homage to the traditional trumpet melodies of Serbia and the broader Balkan region. A highlight of the day was a traditional Serbian wedding ceremony, accompanied by a large procession. Participants adorned in vibrant folk costumes, accompanied by horses, paraded through Guca's streets in time to the distinct Balkan brass sounds. During the festival, which began on Aug. 2, local media reported that the quaint village of around 2,000 inhabitants welcomed an astonishing 150,000 visitors every day. Sunday marked the culmination of the three-day extravaganza -- a showcase which saw Serbia's premier brass bands vying for prestigious titles on the main stage. The festival also offered a tantalizing glimpse into Serbia's culinary heritage. Roast suckling pigs and lambs, alongside the local dish of "wedding cabbage", adorned food stalls and pop-up restaurants across Guca. Marija Tomasevic, a business owner from near Guca, attended the festival for the first time to sell her homemade cheesecakes and sweets. She said, "There are so many fine things to see here, from folk costumes to our traditions and old crafts, which people here have been persistently trying to maintain for years. This is a good opportunity to make some profit, but even more importantly, it is beneficial for promoting my products. Foreigners are especially interested in products with domestic raspberries." Trumpeter Stole, an orchestra leader from Vladicin Han in Southern Serbia, noted that European tourists are somewhat familiar with the music, and often request songs such as "Mesecina" (Moonlight by Goran Bregovic) and the Italian resistance anthem "Bella Ciao." Nikolina Tomic, a 12-year-old girl from the nearby town of Lucani, said: "For me, the best moments are those when the trumpeters perform the Kolo folk dances, which I love to dance to as I attend folk dance classes. I hope that I will perform at this festival one day." As the festival drew to a close, cannons marked the final event in the festival program -- a competition of 16 brass orchestras held in front of an audience of thousands, with a jury composed of Serbia's finest musicologists and folklore experts. Weve made it through another July, typically the hottest month in Virginia, though August has sometimes given it a run for its money. How did people survive this heat without air conditioning, we wonder. Lets take a look through the archives to see how people coped with midsummer, aka hells front porch. There were a few quite hot summers around the turn of the last century. The heat wave of 1901, for example, lasted from the middle of June to the end of July and claimed 9,500 lives in the eastern United States. The clothes they were wearing likely werent helping the situation any, though the problem was with layers as opposed to the fabric. Some snippets from The Daily Star in August 1900, though, reveal that people were beginning to challenge societal norms. In particular, men were being seen in public without a coat. The mayor of Camden, New Jersey, gave his police force special permission to be on the streets in their shirtwaists, owing to the extreme heat. The shirtwaist, which at this time was quite a fad, was often made in bold stripes. The Star printed an entertaining satire, complete with an illustration, of an actor who pushed limits a little too far by wearing one into a swell Gotham restaurantthe Waldorf-Astoria. In an instant chatter ceased . . . cab drivers held their breaths . . . for the Astorians are not used to such things, relayed the paper. The maitre-d showed him to the door, and that was that. For now. Historical health advice always makes an interesting read. An editorial urged Fredericksburg residents to take care to preserve the excellent health of this region during the hot spell: to look to their premises, use disinfectants, and take care to only consume fresh and ripe fruits and vegetables. The cultural belief in bad air lingered long after germ theory was accepted. Fast-forward a few years to 1926, when another hot spell gripped the region, and some street thermometers read as high as 108. Conditions were worsened by a prolonged drought. Fredericksburgs electricity at that time was generated by the Rappahannock River, but no water was flowing over the Embrey Dam. The top of the dam could be seen several feet above the water supply. A diesel engine had been brought in to assist, but power had to be cut off to some construction companies. Despite this, most work on construction projects, such as the RF&P Railroad, continued, though foremen gave workers frequent breaks so that they could seek shade and cool off for a few minutes. Some workers had to give up, but only one or two fell out suddenly. The state convict camp, working on Route 1 in Caroline County, reported a similar situation. No one had to be taken to the hospital or the doctor, however. No households had been cut off from electricity, though in 1926, the average person didnt have many things to plug in. Electric refrigerators were becoming common, but ads in the paper appeared on the same day for cork-insulated wooden ice boxes, electric refrigerators (starting at $245), and a special device that could be placed in your basement to electrify your existing ice box ($190). The movie theater was about the only indoor place that offered respite from the heat. Pitts Leader Theater boasted that it was equipped with Arctic Nu-Air, which was real air conditioning. Units were too large and expensive for homes though, and the Star reported that many Fredericksburgers sat up to the wee hours rather than face the prospect of threshing around in hot beds. The Star described how area residents were seeking relief, which generally meant going outdoors rather than in. People motored to the country, flocked to nearby beaches (such as Belvedere and Fairview on the Potomac River), sat out on lawns where they hoped breezes might be available, and held informal swimming parties and picnic suppers. (During heat waves, however, drownings always increased as inexperienced swimmers plunged into unknown rivers.) Health advice now wisely recommended eight glasses of water spread out throughout the day. Other expert recommendations in the paper were a mixed bag of conventional wisdom that has been both supported and refuted by subsequent studies. The experts encouraged the use of the sun-bathing cure, but cautioned against overexposure and recommended waiting two hours after eating before sunbathing. Not for any reason should someone lie about on wet sand in a wet bathing suit, a practice which was known to bring on rheumatic conditions and to use up ones vital energy in drying ones bathing suit. These conditions may seem far removed from our present-day comforts. But quite a few of us remember when schools and many stores werent air conditioned, and when getting into a car meant searing your bare legs on vinyl seats. And while we wouldnt go back, those who suffered from such deprivations privately enjoy a bit of pride in our fortitude. Second strike inmate sought after walking away from CDCR camp Authorities are searching for an inmate who walked away from a conservation camp in Inyo County Tuesday morning. Ashiel Bahar, 37, was discovered missing from the Owens Valley Conservation Camp around 3 a.m., the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) stated in a news release. Staff immediately launched a search of the camp buildings and grounds, the CDCR stated. Ashiel Bahar Bahar, who stands 6 feet tall and weighs about 247 pounds, was not located on the camps grounds. He was said to be wearing either gray sweatpants and a gray T-shirt, or orange pants and an orange long-sleeve shirt. The CDCRs Office of Correctional Safety, Cal Fire and local law enforcement agencies are all assisting in the search. Bahar was sent to the camp from San Diego County on Nov. 1, 2023, to serve a four-year sentence for first-degree burglary, using the ID of another person to obtain personal identifying information, grand theft firearm, grand theft exceeding $950 and evading or attempting to evade a peace officer while driving recklessly, the CDCR stated, adding that Bahar is a second striker. Owens Valley Conservation Camp is jointly operated by CDCR and Cal Fire, the CDCR states on its website. The camps primary mission is to provide incarcerated hand crews to support local, state, and federal agencies in their response to emergencies such as fires and floods. Camp participants also complete community service and conservation projects year-round, the website says. Anyone who sees Bahar is asked to contact either the Conservation Camp commander at 760-387-2686 or any law enforcement agency or call 911. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. British defence projects at risk as one of last microchip factories ceases taking orders Coherent's County Durham plant has previously supplied chips used for radar power amplifiers in Typhoon jets - Jane Barlow/PA Wire Sensitive British military projects face disruption from the threatened closure of one of the countrys last remaining microchip factories. Coherent, a US semiconductor company, ceased taking orders at its facility in County Durham and said the 310,000 sq ft site may have to be sold after Apple dropped the business as a supplier. It can now be revealed the factorys customers also include Leonardo, the Italian defence giant that makes radar systems, electronic warfare devices and helicopters in the UK. It is understood the plant has previously supplied chips used for radar power amplifiers in Typhoon jets and other British military platforms. Coherent is not thought to have any outstanding orders with Leonardo, but sources suggested the plant may still be needed for future, unspecified programmes. This is because the site, which specialises in photonics, is understood to be one of just two in the country that are currently geared for commercial processing of gallium arsenide semiconductors. The factory's customers also include Italian defence giant Leonardo, which makes helicopters in the UK - Jason Alden/Bloomberg The factorys closure threatens to reduce the UKs domestic capabilities and potentially force Leonardo to source the chips from elsewhere. It would represent a blow to the UK at a time when the Government is seeking to build up the domestic industry for making semiconductors, a key technology underpinning everything from smartphones to complex computer systems and high-precision missiles. A spokesman for Leonardo UK said: Leonardo is aware of the current situation and is working with all of our stakeholders to deliver a resilient supply chain. On Monday, a Ministry of Defence spokesman said: We continually monitor our supply chains, including in the semiconductor sector. One semiconductor industry source suggested a white knight investor may yet emerge to save the Coherent plant, adding: There are potentially interested parties. The Telegraph first revealed in May that the sites future was in doubt and undergoing a strategic review that could lead to the plant being sold. In company accounts, Coherent said it had issued a last-time-buy notice to other customers. It said the decision by Apple which was not named in the accounts to stop using the company as a supplier places the ongoing viability of the business in doubt. The accounts added: A strategic review of the business is currently being undertaken with potential new technologies and/or sale of the business as options under consideration. Losing a contract from Apple can often be disastrous for the companys suppliers. The British semiconductor company Imagination Technologies lost half of its value and was eventually sold after Apple said it no longer planned to use the companys graphics chip designs in 2017. Other companies including Volex and Wolfson Microelectronics suffered share price plunges after losing contracts. The Government announced a 1bn semiconductor strategy last year but critics say the money is not supporting the industry and pales in comparison to semiconductor subsidies in the US and Europe. Coherent was asked for a comment on Monday but did not respond. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Five secretaries of state called on Elon Musk to fix X's chatbot Grok after it shared false information about the 2024 election. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI Aug. 6 (UPI) -- Secretaries of state from five states called on Elon Musk to alter the artificial intelligence chatbot on X, Grok, after it gave out false election information to users around the country. The officials, led by Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon along with Al Schmidt, of Pennsylvania; Jocelyn Benson, of Michigan; Steve Hobbs, of Washington; and Maggie Toulouse Oliver, of New Mexico said in an open letter to Musk the chatbot needs to be changed to keep it from spilling wrong information, including the suggestion that Vice President Kamala Harris was not eligible to appear on the 2024 presidential ballot. They cited an incident on July 21 "within hours" of President Joe Biden's decision to end his re-election bid in which Grok produced false information on ballot deadlines that the secretaries of state said was "shared on multiple social media platforms. The post from Grok read: "The ballot deadline has passed for several states for the 2024 election. Some of these states include: 1. Alabama 2. Indiana 3. Michigan 4. Minnesota 5. New Mexico 6. Ohio 7. Pennsylvania 8. Texas 9. Washington." The secretaries of state said that information was false and bllots are not closed in any of those nine states with upcoming ballot deadlines also allowing for changes to teh candidates listed on the ballot. "While Grok is only available to X Premium and Premium+ subscribers and includes a disclaimer asking users to verify information, the false information about ballot deadlines has been captured and shared repeatedly in multiple posts -- reading millions of people," the letter said. The letter also noted that Grok continued to repeat the false information "for more than a week until it was corrected on July 31, 2024." The officials urged Musk to direct Grok users to the website CanIVote.org when they ask for election information in the United States. "This latest episode is unfortunate, but it's also an opportunity to deliver a collective warning about the need for action on behalf of America's voters," Simon told The Washington Post. "We are all united by the goal of ensuring that voters get accurate information -- and that they seek out trusted sources of information." Charging a liberal bias in rival AI chatbot ChatGPT, Musk started Grok as an "anti-woke" AI tool that would "answer spicy questions that are rejected by most other AI systems." See the impacts of Hurricane Debby on Jacksonville As Hurricane Debby came ashore in Florida's Big Bend area on Monday morning and continued its trek across north Florida, where it was downgraded to a tropical storm before moving into Southeast Georgia, the storm dumped more than 4.5 inches of rain in Jacksonville, according to the National Weather Service in Jacksonville. In Jacksonville, the storm pushed some water from the St. Johns River into downtown's historic neighborhoods where minor flooding is typical during large rain events. At Memorial Park in Riverside, the water pushed temporary balustrades erected after restored balustrades were wrecked by Irma a year ago into the park. JEA crews responded to power outages, and by Tuesday afternoon, only a handful of customers remained without electricity. See photos of Debby's aftermath in Jacksonville This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Hurricane Debby's impacts on Jacksonville | Photos ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) Police are investigating after a semi-truck crashed into a home in Oakfield Tuesday morning. The incident happened on Drake Street around 1 a.m. Investigators said the truck crashed into a car and then into the home. The house was severely damaged as a result of the crash. According to the New York State Police, the driver was asleep and struck a parked vehicle and then the occupied house. He was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The homeowner told News 8 that he and three others were asleep upstairs when the crash happened. They did not report any injuries. The driver was issued vehicle and traffic tickets. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) A semi-truck crash has closed a busy road in southern Houston County. The crash occurred around 4:00 p.m. near the intersection of Cottonwood Road and Halstad Store Road, close to Dothan. Authorities tell WDHN Cottonwood Road is closed to traffic, and power lines are down. No injuries have been reported at this time, and the cause of the crash is unknown. The crash is under investigation by the Houston County Sheriffs Department and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. More information is expected to be released soon. Stay with WDHN for updates. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. MERRILL Lawmakers grilled leaders of the Wisconsin Department of Corrections Tuesday a little over a month after the death of a guard at one of the state's embattled youth prisons. Secretary-designee Jared Hoy took questions from members of the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety during a hearing in the auditorium of Merrill High School. Hoy wore a dark blue ribbon on his suit jacket, bearing Corey Proulx's last name. Department of Corrections Secretary-designee Jared Hoy, speaks during a Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety informational hearing on the Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake youth prisons Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at Merrill High Schooling Merrill, Wisconsin. In June, staff member Corey Proulx died from injuries sustained during an assault by a 16-year-old boy housed at Lincoln Hills School for Boys. Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Proulx, 49, died in June from injuries sustained during an assault by a 16-year-old boy housed at Lincoln Hills School for Boys. Since then, Hoy said, the department has been working to ensure that staff feel safe and secure, while the youth housed in Lincoln Hills and the Copper Lake School for Girls are also being kept safe. Hoy highlighted changes made in the year following a 2015 raid by state agents on Lincoln Hills and its sister school and subsequent FBI investigation of the treatment of the youth housed there and said those reforms weren't the reason for the tragic event that unfolded on June 25. "While this event is difficult and horrific to say the least, we cannot lose sight of the positive outcomes that have occurred because of the reforms that have taken place. The work to reduce harmful practices such as solitary confinement and the use of OC (pepper) spray is commendable and aligns with the national best practices and juvenile justice and the mission of the Division of Juvenile Corrections." In pointed questioning, Sen. Mary Felzkowski, R-Tomahawk, said the department is now responsible for two lives lost: Proulx's and the teen charged in his death. "We have a young man, who in my opinion, the system has very much failed. He was at a youth facility trying to go through rehabilitation so that he could rejoin society," she said. "And now he's killed a man and he will probably never see the light of day. He will go into a facility and spend the majority of his adult years here." State Sen. Mary Felzkowski (R-Tomahawk) is shown during a Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety informational hearing on the Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake youth prisons Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at Merrill High Schooling Merrill, Wisconsin. In June, staff member Corey Proulx died from injuries sustained during an assault by a 16-year-old boy housed at Lincoln Hills School for Boys. Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Felzkowski said she's heard from staff who feel unsafe and that a majority are afraid to report issues within Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake due to a fear of retaliation. She said she's spoken to administrative employees of the schools who have been placed into situations where they don't have adequate training for safety. Hoy said a high number of call-ins in recent months has caused short-staffing, which can hamper efforts to avoid confining youth to their rooms for long periods. At times, recreation leaders with training have been pulled in to help supervise a unit with a guard. "Now is not the time to worry about budget or overtime," he said. "If we're going to have the kids out full-time, we need to have that unit fully staffed...It's about the balance of ensuring safety. The longer we have kids locked up in their rooms, the worse it's going to be when they do come out." Facilities for troubled youth have struggled for years Javarius M. Hurd, 16, was charged as an adult with second-degree reckless homicide, felony murder and two felony counts of battery by a prisoner after assaulting a 25-year-old female staff member, and then Proulx who fell to the ground and hit his head on concrete. In another incident at Copper Lake, Evan White, 44, was charged with physical abuse of a child and substantial battery after he slammed a 17-year-old girl into a wall after an argument. The girl was taken to the hospital with a cut on her face and drainage coming from her right eye. Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake have been the subject of years of lawsuits and abuse allegations claiming excessive use of pepper spray, strip searches and restraints against detainees. One teen had his toes amputated after a guard crushed his foot in the door, while another suffered severe brain damage after guards were slow to respond to her suicide attempt. The second incident sparked a 2017 lawsuit that led to the appointment of a court-ordered monitor to oversee conditions at the youth prison complex. The state paid more than $25 million in court settlements and legal fees. The monitor is still overseeing the facilities, as the state has not yet met all of the outlined requirements. After the most recent visit in March, the monitor reported to the department that conditions were improving. As of Aug. 6, Lincoln Hills is housing 45 boys and Copper Lake is housing 12, according to leaders who spoke during the hearing. Elsewhere, 21 boys are housed at the Mendota Juvenile Treatment Center and three boys are at the Grow Academy program. DOC Assistant Deputy Secretary Melissa Roberts said headway is being made on the other facilities that were approved as a part of legislation to close Lincoln Hills and Copper Lakes, but reminded lawmakers that the plan is a "three-legged stool," meaning that the expansion of the Mendota Juvenile Treatment Center and the creation of new juvenile facilities also need to be completed, to be able to house the youth that would leave the schools. Republicans have several times in recent years rejected requests for funding for new facilities, and only recently approved funding for additional staff at Mendota once the expansion is completed this year. Sen. LaTonya Johnson, D-Milwaukee, asked DOC leaders if they had received the funds requested by the agency over the last several years whether Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake would be closed by now. Roberts said if the funding had been approved when originally requested for an additional Dane County facility and a potential additional one in northern Wisconsin, Lincoln Hills would be closed by 2026. She said its unlikely that Lincoln Hills and Copper Lakes will ever close without the creation of at least a Dane County facility, even with the Milwaukee facility projected to open sometime in early 2026. We have to remember that the vision of everybody on board with Act 185 initially was to get those youths closer to home and get those smaller facilities geographically located closer to those families, Roberts said. And so with just one we are not achieving that vision. But Felzkowski said the requests were not approved, because at the time the funding was sought for the Milwaukee County and Dane County facilities locations weren't picked out. Roberts disputed that claim. "But that's all water under the bridge now," Wanggaard cut in. Senators ask why staff safety isn't prioritized at youth facilities Senators at Tuesday's hearing cast doubt on the improvements and the safety of guards within the facilities. Sen. Van Wanggaard, R-Racine, asked DOC leadership about how the guards, called youth counselors, are trained to protect themselves. Michael Teal, a staff member at Lincoln Hills School for Boys, testifies during a Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety informational hearing on the Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake youth prisons Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at Merrill High Schooling Merrill, Wisconsin. In June, staff member Corey Proulx died from injuries sustained during an assault by a 16-year-old boy housed at Lincoln Hills School for Boys. "Are we giving them the tools they need so that they go home at the end of the day? That's what my concern is," he said. Hoy said all staff have training in hands-on or use-of-force scenarios, but that there is a response team that can step to keep youth and other staff such as teachers or nurses safe. "There's different levels of safety staff that will intervene," he said. Wanggaard pressed officials about the use of pepper spray, asking why guards within Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake can't use it to defend themselves. Hoy said that the use of pepper spray has been banned in many youth facilities across the country because of concerns about overuse. "When OC spray is introduced, there is more misuse than not," he said. "It has been banned in 35 or 36 states because once introduced, it raises that potential, whether folks have been trained or not, to be used in an excessive way or an excessive use of force way." A consent decree negotiated by former Gov. Scott Walker years ago bans the use of the spray completely on the grounds. "The consent decree is very clear that it cannot be anywhere in the facility, period," Hoy said. "We do not have the option under the consent decree to have OC spray anywhere on the premises." Wanggaard pushed back once more. "Well, I hope that we would look to change that," he said. Felzkowski highlighted throughout the hearing that employees at Lincoln Hills are scared, something she is "not afraid to shout from the hills." "I'm not going to let that go, until the employees are recognized and somebody starts to take action," she said. "You need to address the situation with the employees." Lincoln Hills Superintendent Klint Trevino said he routinely hears from employees. "I hear the good, the bad, the ugly," he said. "They open up and say things to me. I don't feel that there's individuals that are not going to express their feelings toward me." Felzkowski said she recently heard from a guard at Lincoln Hills who was reprimanded by a superior in the days following Proulx's death for forcibly taking down a youth who struck and injured another guard. Trevino asked for more detail about the incident. "You know what, Klint, I would love to, but he's scared... to lose his job because he's got a family to feed," Felzkowski said. Felzkowski said her brother once worked at Lincoln Hills and had brought forward worries about the youth facility for years. "My brother used to tell me numerous times before he died, 'Mary, you have to do something or somebody's going to die. It's not if, Mary, it's when,'" she said. In a pointed question, Felzkowski asked if Proulx's death was preventable, drawing sharp intakes of breath from those gathered to testify. "I don't know if we will know the answer to that. I don't want to make his death be some cold line about risk mitigation," Hoy said. "I'm not sure if there was anything that we could have done." Employees have received counseling, time off in the wake of Proulx's death Hoy said the loss of Proulx has been felt deeply throughout the staff at Lincoln Hills, and that there have been services offered for their mental health and well-being. Ron Hermes, administrator for the Division of Juvenile Corrections, said staff at Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake are undergoing additional training and surveys about their feelings. "I fully acknowledge since Corey's death, there has been an increase in staff fearing for their safety and an uneasiness around interactions with the youth," Hermes said. "This is to be expected after such a traumatic event. The trust that existed between staff and youth has been fractured. It will take time for that trust to be restored." Hoy said in speaking with Proulx's family, he heard about the love he had for working at Lincoln Hills, with the youth housed there. "I've had the opportunity to talk to and spend time with his family. His father, Ed, I think said it best when he said 'If even one youth's life has been changed, he accomplished his mission,'" Hoy said. "And there's no doubt Corey loved working at Lincoln Hills. He was committed to the cause and proud of his work. And Ed, I'm sure he impacted many more than just one." Laura Schulte can be reached at leschulte@jrn.com and on Twitter at @SchulteLaura. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Senators grill DOC leaders after death of guard at Lincoln Hills How about sending homeless folks to live on McNeil Island? The TNT examines the question Finding places to operate shelters and stability sites to serve homeless people has proved challenging for Pierce County governments, which often run into opposition from people who dont want such facilities in their neighborhoods. A recent suggestion likely would minimize such opposition. Weve had the homeless problem forever, and one of the best ideas I ever heard was to take McNeil Island and make that a place for our homeless to be, a Gig Harbor resident told the Pierce County Council on July 9. The woman testified in a council chamber filled with representatives from homeless service providers there to advocate for a policy that would make it easier to establish temporary shelters and tiny home villages for the homeless. McNeil Island is in Puget Sound, west of Steilacoom and north of Anderson Island. It has long served as home for federal or state detention centers of some variety. While the providers seemed to smirk and scoff at the womans suggestion, its not the first time someone has brought up using the island as a place to build facilities for the homeless. While on the campaign trail in recent months, Republican gubernatorial candidate Dave Reichert pitched using the island to house the homeless. Recently, McNeil Island was on a list of properties the countys Human Services Department was considering to host a $2.5 million stability site to serve as an emergency homeless shelter. Ultimately, the county decided the island was not an ideal fit for the stability site. A spokesperson for the county told The News Tribune the island is zoned for lower density, rural usages, has no sewer infrastructure and is only accessible via a ferry system operated by the Department of Corrections. Would it work? For more than 100 years, the island was known for a federal prison that held infamous convicts such as Charles Manson and Mickey Cohen. Beginning in 1981 that facility began to be used as a state corrections center. In 2011, the oldest prison facility in the Northwest was officially closed after 136 years. The island now is home to the states Special Commitment Center, which is run by the state Department of Social and Health Services. The facility serves to rehabilitate sex offenders the state has defined as sexually violent predators. A KOMO News documentary titled Seattle is Dying in 2019 suggested using the islands decommissioned prison to house the homeless and provide wrap-around services such as substance-abuse therapy. The prison, which is separate from the Special Commitment Center, is owned by Washingtons Department of Corrections (DOC). Chris Wright, a spokesperson for the DOC, said the facility was closed in 2011 and had been mothballed since then empty and without staff. Wright told The News Tribune the facility was unusable, with aging infrastructure, structural issues and asbestos, among other problems. He said he was not aware of any serious conversations about re-purposing the former prison. Its not feasible, he told The News Tribune in an email. Rob Huff is a spokesperson for the Tacoma Pierce County Coalition to End Homelessness a regional coalition of community organizers, service providers and government agencies that meets weekly to discuss efforts and programs to end homelessness. Huff said he thinks the proposal to send individuals experiencing homelessness to an island usually comes from folks who havent thought through the issue. He said even if the island was an oasis with all the infrastructure and supportive services needed to help the unhoused, removing and isolating people would come with a list of challenges. For me, the solutions should be in the community they live in, Huff said in an interview with The News Tribune. He said folks living unhoused often need a job to get back on their feet, and being on an island comes with obvious transportation issues. Huff said he understands that some people are frustrated by the homelessness crisis and made uncomfortable when they see people having to sleep on the street in the cold of winter, but political solutions that aim to get those living homeless out of sight are not the answer. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Gov. Joe Lombardo joined city and county officials on Monday as a new affordable housing project for seniors broke ground in Las Vegas. The Decatur Rome Senior Apartments development will include 38 tiny homes and three buildings totaling 238 apartments. Ovation Development Corporation is building the $78 million complex on 9.5 acres just north of Decatur Boulevard and the northern 215 Beltway. Of the 278 total units, 180 will be available to seniors making less than 49% of Area Median Income (AMI), and 96 units will be available to seniors making less than 59% of AMI, according to a news release. Tiny homes will offer 400 square feet of living space, while one- and two-bedroom apartments will range from 664 to 891 square feet. Gov. Joe Lombardo attends the groundbreaking for an affordable housing development for seniors on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. (KLAS) This project is the direct result of the federal government releasing land for housing development, and this project reiterates the importance of federal land being released statewide, so that cities and private developers can get to work, Lombardo said. My administration will continue to advocate for more land releases, less red tape, and more attainable housing for Nevada families. The project is on land once owned by the federal government. It was granted to the City of Las Vegas for purposes of affordable housing, and Ovation was awarded the project through a competitive RFP process. Affordable housing gets $20 million county contribution in southwest Las Vegas valley Land availability has been a big sticking point, and Lombardo made that clear during President Joe Bidens visit to Nevada in March. In a letter released to the media, Lombardo pointed to the painfully slow process of freeing up federal land for development an important factor in Southern Nevadas housing crisis. When Biden returned in July, he announced an initiative to free up 525.5 acres to build 15,000 units of affordable housing and Lombardo repeated his criticism of the red tape involved in releasing public land. Gov. Joe Lombardo attends the groundbreaking for an affordable housing development for seniors on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. (KLAS) The ball was rolling on the Ovation project before any of that happened. The presence of Lombardo along with Clark County Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick, Las Vegas City Councilwoman Nancy Brune and Nevada State Treasurer Zach Conine underscores the significant housing shortage, particularly for working families and low-income seniors, Ovation developer Alan Molasky said. East Las Vegas valley site revealed in affordable housing plan The shortage of affordable housing is not a partisan issue, its a universal concern nationally, regionally and locally on both sides of the aisle, Molasky said. We are especially appreciative today of Governor Lombardo for this strong showing of bipartisan support for affordable housing and for all he is doing to make Nevada a place where current and future Nevadans can live and thrive. Gov. Joe Lombardo joins other officials at the groundbreaking for an affordable housing development for seniors on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. (KLAS) The project is funded in part by Clark County Community Housing Funds (CHF) and Nevada Housing Divisions Home Means Nevada Initiative. Construction is expected to be complete by year-end 2025 with the first resident move-ins anticipated in 2026 likely far ahead of other projects that are only beginning with the new efforts to release federal land. To date, Ovation has completed 15 affordable housing communities, bringing to market more than 2,270 affordable apartment units. With six more projects in the planning stages or under construction, by early 2028, Ovation will add nearly an additional 1,300 affordable residences, according to a news release. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) Another person has been charged in relation to a pro-Palestine protest at the University of Illinois earlier this year. According to records from the Champaign County States Attorney, Arthur Paganini is being served a Notice to Appear for charges of mob action and obstructing a peace officer. Champaign County States Attorney Julia Rietz confirmed with WCIA Paganinis charges are related to the encampment protests in April. UIUC pro-Palestine encampment timeline in photos On April 26, at a gathering near the Alma Mater statue, multiple demonstrators were holding objects like sheets of plywood to prevent University of Illinois police from getting inside the encampment. Police retreated before coming up with several assisting law enforcement agencies for back-up. Paganini is the seventh demonstrator to be charged in relation to U of Is encampment protests. The others include: Victor Smith, 21, Elizabeth Sotiropoulos, 35, Joseph Kleckner, 25, Yafa Issa, 18, George Vassilatos, 25, and Christopher Zelle, 37. All seven are facing mob action charges. Sotiropoulos and Kleckner are being additionally charged with obstructing a peace officer, and Zelle has also been charged with aggravated battery to a peace officer. WCIA reached out to U of I on whether Paganini has any relations with the university but has not heard back. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. PANAMA CITY Local law enforcement officials are investigating a Monday morning shooting at Vibez. According to a press release from the Panama City Police Department, the incident occurred outside the nightclub at about 4 a.m., "following multiple 911 calls from concerned citizens." The Panama City Police Department is investigating a Monday morning shooting that happened at Vibez nightclub. "Responding officers discovered several shell casings in the parking lot near the entrance," the release reads. "An investigation into the incident revealed that the artist known as Malie Donn had concluded a scheduled performance and was observed exiting the building through a rear entrance. "Upon entering the parking lot, Malie Donn was seen being escorted by two unknown males wearing masks and armed with AK-47-style rifles." The release notes that witnesses saw one of the masked men shoot a rifle multiple times into the air. He, the other masked man and Donn then got into a car and fled the scene. Looking back: Vibez club closes, says it was 'public enemy No. 1' after 'Panamaniac'. City denies claims No injuries were reported at the time of the release. "We take incidents involving firearms very seriously and are committed to ensuring the safety of our community," Chief Mark Smith of the Panama City Police Department said in the release. "We urge anyone with information to come forward and assist us in our investigation." Those with information on the shooting can contact the Panama City Police Department by calling 850 872-3100. They also can give anonymous tips to department's crime stoppers hotline by calling 850 785-TIPS. More information will be released as it becomes available. This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Panama City Police Department investigates Monday shooting at Vibes club A suspected rocket attack on Monday has injured several U.S. personnel in Iraq, according to a defense spokesperson. The attack struck Al-Asad Airbase in western Iraq, the official said, adding they were conducting a postattack damage assessment and would share more information when it is available. It wasnt immediately clear who was behind the attack, though Iranian-backed militants appear to have resumed threats against U.S. forces in Iraq in recent days. Last week, U.S. fighter jets struck Iranian-backed militants, with American officials saying the fighters were preparing for drone or rocket attacks. The flare-up in Iraq comes as the U.S. and Israel are bracing for an Iranian attack. Iran has blamed Israel for the assassination of top Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh while he was in Tehran last week, and Irans supreme leader has vowed revenge. Israel has not claimed responsibility for the attack, though it rarely acknowledges covert operations in countries it is not at direct war with. Israeli forces last week also claimed responsibility for a strike against the top Hezbollah military leader, Fuad Shukr, who was the right-hand man to the Lebanese militant groups leader, Hassan Nasrallah. The Iranian-backed Hezbollah has been firing daily at Israel over the border since the war in Gaza began nearly 10 months ago. But after the deaths of Haniyeh and Shukr, a larger retaliation from Hezbollah and Iran is spurring fears across the Middle East. The U.S. has moved the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group to the Middle East, along with additional ballistic missile defense-capable cruisers and destroyers and a fighter squadron, to prepare for any Iranian and Hezbollah attack. U.S. forces battled Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq and Syria for months following the outbreak of Israels war against Hamas in October, but the death of three American troops at a base in Jordan prompted a massive strike on their positions in February. After the U.S. strike, attacks in Iraq and Syria on American bases stopped. If the Iranian proxies are behind the most recent strike on Al-Asad base, its not clear what has prompted them to strike again. Iran may be directing the militia groups to carry out more attacks, or the groups could be pushing back on their own after the death of Haniyeh and Shukr. Any renewed fighting in Iraq is likely to lead to pushback from Baghdad, which is looking to kick out U.S. troops and may do so at the conclusion of talks, potentially in the fall. Iraqi leaders have repeatedly criticized any strikes and battles in Iraq. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (KRON) The San Francisco Police Department is investigating a Tenderloin District shooting that left three people shot and one dead on Monday. Police said the three-way shooting happened around the 1000 block of Market Street at about 10:49 p.m. On their way to the scene, responding officers found a man suffering from a gunshot wound at the intersection of Sixth and Market Streets. Shortly after, police located a second victim suffering from a gunshot wound at Seventh and Stevenson Streets. Police said both victims were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, with one dealing with life-threatening injuries. Shortly after, officers said they found a third victim suffering from a gunshot wound on the 1000 block of Market Street. He was also hospitalized for life-threatening injuries, police said. Despite life-saving measures taken, the third victim was pronounced dead at the hospital. SFPD said this is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call 415-575-4444. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. The decision by Vice President Kamala Harris to choose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate is raising questions among some Jewish leaders about whether a pressure campaign led by anti-Israel activists to thwart Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiros nomination ultimately played a part in influencing the selection process. Harris formally announced her pick in a text message to supporters of her campaign on Tuesday morning. Tim is a battle-tested leader who has an incredible track record of getting things done for Minnesota families, she said. I know that he will bring that same principled leadership to our campaign, and to the office of the vice president. The selection comes amid Democratic concerns over anti-Israel protests at the partys convention in Chicago this month. Harris will appear with Walz at a campaign rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening. In recent weeks, Shapiro had faced mounting resistance from an outspoken coalition of far-left organizers who expressed vehement opposition to Shapiro over his staunch support for Israel and his criticism of extreme anti-Israel campus protesters, among other issues. The campaign drew allegations of antisemitism for targeting Shapiro, an observant Jew whose positions on Israel were largely aligned with other contenders who emerged on the vice presidential short list, including Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Walz, the latter of whom had been favored by progressives. The rhetoric used by the left-wing campaign, including tagging Shapiro as Genocide Josh, also faced criticism for singling out the only Jewish candidate under serious consideration. For some observers who had been cautiously excited by the possibility of a Jewish running mate the first since 2000 the organized campaign was a dismaying confirmation of concerns that Shapiros rise as a vice presidential prospect could be derailed amid a recent surge of antisemitism in the wake of Hamas Oct. 7 attack on Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza. There are all kinds of legitimate factors that go into a vice-presidential pick, but there was an obvious and concerted anti-Shapiro effort that tapped into the antisemitic fervor coursing through our country, said Nathan Diament, the executive director of public policy for the Orthodox Union. Irrespective of the reasons Ms. Harris had, he told Jewish Insider, Shapiros far-left opponents will surely declare victory. With that in mind, Diament cautioned that Harris will have to take other steps to undermine those extremists to show their claims are false. Brett Goldman, a founder of Democratic Jewish Outreach Pennsylvania and a political consultant in Philadelphia, said in an interview with JI that he viewed the Shapiro snub as a sign that Harris is succumbing to pressure from the left whose relative electoral power, he suggested, has been overstated. But despite his disappointment, Goldman clarified that his group would still back Harris campaign. Its unfortunate, and it sucks that its not Josh, he said, describing the effort to block Shapiro as based in antisemitism and anti-Zionism. But we still have an election to win. Jared Solomon, a Jewish state representative in Philadelphia now running for attorney general, a role previously held by Shapiro, said he regarded the popular Pennsylvania governor as by far the best pick for vice president, citing how he brings faith into the conversation in an approachable, inclusive way. I would say to the critics, specifically on his position regarding Israel, I would be hard-pressed to see much daylight between Josh and the other contenders, he told JI. I believe that he, like the others, thinks the United States is a friend of Israel and like the others, believes in a two-state solution. The anti-Shapiro campaign, Solomon added, begs the question: Why is he, unlike the other candidates, facing so much pushback? Even as the anti-Shapiro campaign faced charges of antisemitism, some observers cast skepticism on suggestions that his Jewish faith may ultimately have impeded his chances of joining the top of the ticket. I would point out that for the one previous example we have of a Jewish running mate, Joe Lieberman was a net help electorally to the ticket, Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-PA) said in a text message to JI. I saw it firsthand in Northeast Philadelphia where some heavily Russian Jewish precincts switched from voting Republican to Democratic, and then promptly switched back to Republican again in 2004. Given that precedent, Boyle said he genuinely did not believe that Shapiro was passed over because of the fact hes Jewish. Larry Ceisler, a Democratic political operative in Pennsylvania who has known Shapiro for decades, argued that the far left would ultimately have come to terms with the governor if he had been picked as a running mate. Where were they going to go? he said. Whats frustrating for me is that they dont know Josh, Ceisler told JI. So much of the criticism has been uninformed. View comments Shapiro to campaign for Harris after Walz VP pick; says work in PA 'far from finished' Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen her running mate, announcing Tuesday morning that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will join her on the ticket. The decision comes two weeks after President Joe Biden announced he would not seek reelection and quickly endorsed Harris as his pick for president. Harris' list of potential running mates included Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who was said to be among the final top choices from a long list of possible candidates that included Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly and U.S. transportation secretary and former Naval officer Pete Buttigieg. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz speaks inside the Earth Rider Brewery in Superior, Wisconsin, U.S., Jan. 25, 2024. Tuesday's decision was made while Harris campaigned in Philadelphia. She will speak late Tuesday afternoon at Temple University's Liacouras Center. Shapiro stumps for Harris in Ambler: Gov. Josh Shapiro comes home for Pa. rally for Kamala Harris in Ambler. Is he VP pick? While Shapiro is no longer a potential pick for VP, the lawmaker from Montgomery County appears poised to continue stumping for Harris as the Nov. 5 election draws closer. Shapiro is scheduled to speak at her first swing state blitz stop this afternoon. "My work here in Pennsylvania is far from finished there is a lot more stuff I want to get done for our Commonwealth. Over the next 92 days, I look forward to traveling all across the Commonwealth to unite Pennsylvanians behind my friends Kamala Harris and Tim Walz and defeat Donald Trump. See you tonight in Philly," Shapiro tweeted. Vice President Kamala Harris and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro visit the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024. Harris and Walz will continue their tour through key battleground states with stops in western Wisconsin, Detroit, Raleigh, N.C., Savannah, Ga., Phoenix and Las Vegas through Saturday. The Democratic National Convention, where it's expected delegates will name Harris as the party's nominee, begins Aug. 19 and runs through Aug. 22 in Chicago. While Shapiro didn't win "Veep-stakes," the Pennsylvania governor's political career spanning nearly 20 years undoubtedly help make him a popular choice. Who is Josh Shapiro? Shapiro has held an elected office at the county or state level in Pennsylvania since 2005, when voters sent him to represent the states 153rd District, and has yet to lose an election. Born June 20, 1973, in Kansas City, Missouri, Shapiro was raised in the Dresher area of Upper Dublin, near the border Abington Township. After graduating high school in 1991 from Akiba Hebrew Academy, now the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy, Shapiro then went to the University of Rochester where he earned a degree in political science. Who is Josh Shapiro?: Shapiro as VP could boost a Harris ticket in Pa. What to know about the popular governor Shapiro met his wife, Lori, while attending high school. They now have four children. He worked on Capitol Hill on the staffs of U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, U.S. Rep. Peter Deutsch, U.S. Sen. Robert Torricelli and U.S. Rep. Joe Hoefell while studying nights at Georgetown University Law Center. Shapiro earned a doctorate there in 2002. Shapiro returned to Abington with his family not long after as he began to pursue a career in politics. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, center, greets the crowd alongside Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer at a campaign rally for Vice President Kamala Harris at Wissahickon High School in Ambler on Monday, July 29, 2024. Shapiros political career in Pennsylvania Shapiro ran and won the 153rd District seat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 2004, serving on the appropriations, finance, insurance, judiciary and state government committees. After being elected to four two-year terms in the district representing Abington and part of Upper Dublin, he successfully ran for a seat on the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners in 2012. Shapiro was appointed as chairman of the commissioners after winning the election, the first time a Democrat held the position in over a century. Pa. Dems back Harris: After Biden exits race, Kamala Harris is the Pa. Democratic delegation's pick Shapiros tenure as Attorney General, from 2017 to 2022 was marked by his efforts to tackle the opioid crisis, protect consumers, and uphold civil rights. Shapiro resigned as Attorney General after winning the 2022 gubernatorial race. As governor, he has focused on expanding access to education, improving healthcare, and fostering economic development. Shapiro played a significant role in the response to the I-95 collapse in Philadelphia, ensuring swift action and coordination to reopen the crucial highway ahead of schedule. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro speaks alongside Michigan Governor Gretchen Whimer at a campaign rally for Vice President Kamala Harris at Wissahickon High School in Ambler on Monday, July 29, 2024. Josh Shapiro is battle-tested against a MAGA Republican With its 19 electoral college votes up for grabs, Pennsylvania will be a critical swing state in the 2024 election. As Harris' campaign continues, Shapiro and other Democrats might hammer on past wins against Trump and his supporters. Biden beat Trump in Pennsylvania by about 80,555 votes in 2020, and Shapiro had a notable win in the 2022 race for governor. Shapiro defeated Sen. Doug Mastriano, of Franklin County, two years ago in a landslide after raising eight times as much as the Trump-endorsed Republican. A look at religion and the RNC: 'A religious rally': Trump's Republican National Convention fuses faith and politics Mastriano was an advocate for Trumps unfounded claims of election fraud in 2020, even hosting one of the earliest events casting aspersions on the outcome at a hearing in Gettysburg just weeks after the polls had closed. The support from Trump and Mastrianos hardline stance on outlawing abortion with no exceptions were frequently criticized by Shapiros campaign and its supporters throughout the race. Shapiros 12-point win that November was one in a series of disappointing races for the MAGA movement. Shapiro has cited his past wins against the Trump campaign's 2020 attempts to challenge election results in Pennsylvania has he's rallied for Harris since July. USA Today contributed to this report. Chris Ullery is the Philadelphia Hub Data Reporter for the USA Today Network. Reach him at cullery@couriertimes.com or find him on Twitter at @ulleryatinell. This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Minn. Gov. Tim Walz picked over Josh Shapiro for Harris VP spot Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) called Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) an exceptionally strong running mate for Vice President Harris on Tuesday after he lost the battle to become his partys vice presidential candidate. Vice President Kamala Harris has my enthusiastic support and I know that Governor Tim Walz is an exceptionally strong addition to the ticket who will help Kamala move our country forward, Shapiro said in a statement following Harriss decision. Walz, Shapiro and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly (D) were widely seen as the top three candidates to join Harris on the Democratic presidential ticket. The governor noted in his statement that he would campaign for the ticket ahead of November. In a post on the social platform X, Shapiro said he would be in attendance at the campaigns rally Tuesday in Philadelphia, a setting that had stoked speculation he would be the pick. Over the next 92 days, I look forward to traveling all across the Commonwealth to unite Pennsylvanians behind Kamala Harris campaign to defeat Donald Trump, become the 47th President of the United States, and build a better future for our country, the Pennsylvania governor said. While Shapiro was long seen as a leading contender for the position given Pennsylvanias importance in the Electoral College battle, progressive segments of the party, along with pro-Palestinian activists, publicly took issue with the governors stance on the Israel-Hamas War and his response to pro-Palestinian protests. Critics of progressives and Shapiros allies, on the other hand, accused his critics of spreading antisemitic rhetoric against the governor, who is an observant Jew. Shapiro referenced his faith in his statement Tuesday, saying that it, along with his family, has motivated his public service. Ive been called to serve because I want to leave our community, our Commonwealth, and our country better off for our children and because my faith teaches me that no one is required to complete the task, but neither are we free to refrain from it, the governor said. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The woman killed during what police described as a targeted shooting behind a rental car service on Saturday was days away from celebrating her birthday before her ex-fiance allegedly shot her. Las Vegas police said a man and a woman were shot while retrieving their rental car behind the Avis on Sahara and Decatur Saturday afternoon. Friends identified the female victim who was pronounced dead at the scene as 36-year-old Gina Martin, a Las Vegas native who was recently living in Colorado. Ivan Williams said Martin was back in the valley to celebrate her 37th birthday on Monday, two days after her life was taken. 36-year-old Gina Martin, identified by friends and family as the victim from Saturdays fatal shooting behind an Avis rent-a-car service. (Ivan Williams) Ivan Williams (left) and Gina Martin (right). (Ivan Williams) She didnt celebrate herself a lot, so this year she was like, I want to celebrate myself. I want to come to Vegas, hang out with my friends and family, Williams said in North Las Vegas Monday afternoon. If you knew Gina, you loved her. Theres nobody, aside from the suspect, who I could say met Gina and didnt love her. Police identified the suspect on Monday as 37-year-old Frederick Lee Blanche Jr., the same day they announced his Sunday arrest in Buckeye, Arizona. LVMPDs homicide lieutenant told media on Saturday that a mobile police surveillance unit stationed in the Avis back parking lot and stationary security cameras from nearby businesses captured his arrival, shooting and escape. Williams said he believed the shooting was an act of domestic violence. Its just been, like, a series of him harassing her. I know that for a fact. Hes done it once when she was with me, like constantly calling her, trying to figure out where she was at. Williams said, learning the confirmation of the shooters name moments prior to this interview. The last communication I actually had with Gina was me telling her, Hey, Freds in my Instagram stories, and that was probably an hour before he killed her. Blanche Jr. now awaits extradition to Las Vegas while in an Arizona detention center where he will face multiple felony charges, including open murder. Williams, friends, and family are left to navigate the grief of the person described as a huge loss to the world. He said Martin worked in the hospitality industry and was contemplating a move back to Clark County to be closer to her family and 18-year-old son that just graduated from high school. Im thankful that God allowed me to experience you, Williams said through tears when asked what he would tell Martin if given the opportunity. She loved everybody. She loved life. She loved celebrating life. She loved her son. To find myself in these moments where Im laughing and enjoying life knowing that somebody who I love to live these moments with is no longer here to enjoy them with me, it just feels selfish. How can you possibly be happy when one of the worst days of your life is going on? he said. As of the last update, the male gunshot victim was taken to UMC in critical condition. For a list of local and state resources for domestic violence and abuse victims, visit this link. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. She owed thousands of dollars in rent. But did her Puyallup landlord take things too far? In a quiet neighborhood on a cul-de-sac just west of Puyallup city limits, the drill spinning into Betty Halberts front-door keyhole caused a sudden racket. Moments earlier, the drills operator made a beeline to the door from the street. He wore a backward baseball cap, reflective yellow shirt and tan work boots. Inside her duplex, Halbert rushed to investigate and, when face to face with the stranger outside, ordered him to leave and warned that she would be calling the police. About 10 seconds after Halbert, 59, retreated indoors, the man swiftly flung the door open with his boot and took several steps into the living room. Halbert scurried to a pitchfork leaning against a wall, armed herself and jabbed at the man. He lifted up a cow-pattern-cushioned dining chair to block thrusts of the garden tool before scampering out of the home. I dont know what he was doing, Halbert told The News Tribune in July from the duplex she had rented for some six years. I had been gardening out front. So I went after him. Halbert called for help. So did the apparent intruder, law enforcement records show. The man said he had a right to be there: He told a dispatcher he had signed a lease for the location. It was an odd and dangerous scene that unfolded June 7, according to Halberts account and surveillance video she shared with The News Tribune. It is only one among a number of incidents in recent months that she claimed were orchestrated by her landlord, Qifan Tony Shi. Halbert moved into the duplex home in 2018, and Shi bought it in October 2021, county property records show. He soon raised the $1,400 rent by $250, according to Halbert, who began having persistent issues paying it on time last year after she lost her ability to work. Halbert, who had a maintenance job, suffered a cervical spine injury while on the clock in December 2022. Halbert said she tried to no avail for longer than a year to get a copy of her rental agreement from Shi and the propertys manager in order to apply for rental assistance. Her ex-boyfriend took her previous copy, she said. In July 2023, the property manager revealed that Halbert didnt have a lease with Shi and offered to draw one up and send it to Halbert to sign, a text message shows. Halbert claimed she never received it. Reliant on workers comp, she regularly paid what she could but never caught up, sending anywhere between $250 and $1,200 in attempts to satisfy past-due rent, according to dozens of text messages between her and her property manager that she shared with The News Tribune. By January, Halbert was four months behind. In early June, she owed $12,000 shortly after Shi filed an unlawful detainer complaint against her, court records show. Although Shi pursued an eviction through the appropriate legal channels, he has been accused of stepping outside the bounds of the law in an attempt to force Halbert out. In a statement to The News Tribune, Shi denied wrongdoing, saying that Halbert not only failed to pay rent but also vandalized his property. Bettys accusations against me are a blatant defamation of character, he said. Since May, Halbert said, her vehicles driver-side windows were broken, a drone flew directly into her backyard, surveillance cameras were installed without notice, her power-meter box was destroyed and a water pipe was busted in July by men reportedly performing maintenance, leaving an open sewage hole in her backyard. She had no electricity or water late last month and relied on a neighbor to provide a bucket of water so that she could flush her toilet. She also installed her own cameras, including a second one in her backyard after she said she was alerted by her alarm of a man walking back and forth there during the wee morning hours of July 4. In a court filing certified under the penalty of perjury, Halberts duplex neighbor declared that the property manager had offered her $50 to get Halbert out of the home for a few hours and later $1,000 to file a restraining order against Halbert. The neighbor declined both alleged proposals, saying she didnt feel comfortable with either and had no legal reasoning to seek protection from Halbert. Im scared to death. I really am, Halbert said during an interview on July 23. What kind of person destroys his own house to get someone like me out? Less than a week later, Halbert moved on, leaving behind half of her belongings, trading in the duplex for a basement in the house of someone she knew and feeling certain that she had been illegally driven out. Betty Halbert gets emotional July 23 recounting the alleged harassment shes faced after her new landlord took over the property. Escalating events The remedy to an unwanted tenant exists in court. Errin Reynolds is general manager of the The Landlord Law Group and treasurer of the Washington Landlord Association. Reynolds said in an interview that she didnt know a landlord who would prefer legal action, which is expensive, to instead working with a tenant over time. If a landlord has made a business decision to file an eviction, Reynolds said, she advises they hire an attorney to ensure an eviction is handled properly. Theres no secret way to get people out. Theres just not, she said. Youve got to go through the legal process. Washington States Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, which details the responsibilities of landlords and tenants, was created so there werent situations where landlords took matters into their own hands, including through force or harassment, according to Chris Brunetti, managing attorney in the Eviction Prevention Unit for the Northwest Justice Project. Brunetti told The News Tribune that evictions can be resolved within a few months a fairly quick turnaround in the context of civil litigation, where cases might drag out for a year or longer. While he noted there were landlords addressing evictions appropriately, he said that it wasnt unheard of to learn of those who were not. Maybe not quite this extreme, he said, referring to the allegations in Puyallup, but certainly we hear about these situations fairly regularly. He advised clients to ensure theyre documenting experiences, including by making police reports when necessary, because they could prove relevant either in an eviction action or potential other case such as a wrongful eviction. Three Sheriffs Department incident reports taken this year at Halberts address reflected that the victim states the landlord is sending people to the residence to harass her by breaking things at the house, according to sheriffs spokesperson Sgt. Darren Moss. Moss said there is no proof that the landlord was responsible. Deputies have documented the crimes, but there have been no suspects to contact when they arrive on scene, he added. Halbert said that she repeatedly was told by law enforcement that the issues she had raised were civil matters, but Moss said that the alleged vandalism was not a civil issue. The News Tribune, which sought the reports in a public records request, had not yet received copies as of Monday. The News Tribune also later requested a separate report about vandalism that Shi claimed was perpetrated by Halbert. Shi said there had been multiple incidents but didnt clarify, when asked, what Halbert allegedly did. Shi cited to The News Tribune a police incident number. South Sound 911, a police and fire dispatch agency used by law enforcement and fire departments in the county, said the number wasnt tied to a formal report but instead a police dispatchers record of a June call from Shi. He had accused Halbert of breaking a surveillance camera attached to the neighboring duplex unit, according to the call log. In an interview, Halbert denied doing so. On Monday night, about a week after Halbert moved out, Shi sent photos to The News Tribune of large graffiti on multiple walls of the home. Some messages were threatening and two contained a racial or homophobic slur. In a brief interview Tuesday, Halbert denied responsibility, although she acknowledged spraying a non-derogatory message with a profanity in a small corner of the garage. Halbert said she took video of the home before departing for proof of its condition. I would never do that, she said. I have no means to destroy things because thats not me. One thing is for certain: The issues that arose at the duplex, prompting responses from various agencies, upset the peace of a tight-knit community. At one point in May, the neighborhood was without power when Halbert said hers was cut off a first time; strange traffic has been seen seemingly casing the street; and wafts from the sewer hole in Halberts backyard were noticeable nearby depending on the wind, according to some neighbors. Its one thing with the landlord-tenant dispute, one neighbor said late last month before Halbert had left. We understand both sides of that. The neighbor, who spoke on the condition of anonymity out of fear of retaliation, said they worried about a cascade of nuisance incidents that escalated to violence and noted that quarrels between landlords and tenants should be handled through the legal process set up to address such issues. Whats coming next is the big question, they said. Betty Halberts rental home, on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, in Puyallup. Halbert said she became the target of repeated harassment after her new landlord took over the property. New renters and legal action The man with a drill wasnt the only person who arrived at Halberts home claiming to have signed a rental agreement for the property, according to Halbert and law enforcement call records that she shared with The News Tribune. On May 31, a woman showed up among a handful of people, insisting she had a signed agreement, and the group attempted to enter the home, Halbert said. Im on the phone with the police, and theyre rattling and shaking and trying different keys, and knocking, Halbert said. And Im like you know, Im apologizing to them. That same day, Shi reported to law enforcement that he didnt know who was inside the home but they shouldnt be there, in an apparent reference to Halbert, according to a dispatchers record of the call. Shi also reported that the home had been vacant for several months and he had rented the unit to new tenants. A law enforcement dispatchers record of a May 31 call from Qifan Tony Shi. The next day, a man alerted law enforcement that he had rented the home but couldnt get into it because the locks had been changed, and it also appeared someone had been living there. On July 4, the man who had allegedly been in Halberts backyard yelled at her that the home was his, and he vowed to return, she said. When he did, an accompanying woman claimed to be in possession of a rental contract. Shi said he didnt double-rent the house. Instead, he explained, his legal effort to evict Halbert had been stalled by factors outside of his control that were ultimately to blame for the situation. On May 15, Shi filed an unlawful detainer the formal term for an eviction proceeding in Pierce County Superior Court. The filing indicated that Halbert had signed a one-year lease with a previous property owner in January 2018 and the rental agreement reverted afterward to a month-to-month tenancy. The rent at the time of the filing was $1,650 monthly. The court issued a writ of restitution on May 21, directing the Sheriffs Department to remove Halbert from the property within 10 days. The Sheriffs Department, however, couldnt carry out the eviction within that window, court records show. In all my previous unlawful detainer cases, the Sheriffs Department has always managed to meet this requirement within the 10-day period, Shi said in an email to The News Tribune. After obtaining the Writ, I rented out the property with a lease starting well beyond this 10-day window. Based on when the writ was issued, it would have expired on May 31, the day Halbert said she first had to turn away a purported new renter. Shi, who denied any involvement in altercations between Halbert and the apparent new tenants, suggested that a backlog in a surge of eviction cases had impaired the Sheriffs Departments ability to process Halberts eviction and others in a timely manner. Moss confirmed that evictions were backed up. The COVID-19 pandemic initially caused the backlog, which has been exacerbated by staffing (four deputies compose the team carrying out evictions) and a recently voter-approved initiative in the city of Tacoma that significantly limits when evictions can occur. In May, the backlog was 42 days, according to Moss. Eviction delayed Two weeks after Halbert was ordered to be removed from her home, the writ of restitution was stayed, or put on hold by attorneys for Shi and Halbert. As conditions of the stay, Halbert had to work with a housing advocacy group to determine her eligibility for rental assistance or secure other housing and leave her home, according to a court document. The stay was jointly agreed to by Shis attorney and Halberts legal counsel, an attorney from Tacomaprobono Community Lawyers, the document shows. Although the eviction was paused, Halbert said her troubles continued. In the days that followed, Halberts neighbor claimed to have twice been the subject of an attempted bribe by the units property manager, who was unresponsive to messages seeking comment for this story. Shi also didnt address a question regarding the claims in an inquiry sent by email. Halbert reported that her vehicles broken windows, the pitchfork altercation and the shutting off of water and power each occurred after the stay was issued. Shi alleged that he had been misled into agreeing to the stay, saying he was convinced by Halberts counsel, through her communications with his attorney, that a stay would expedite the eviction since waiting for the Sheriffs Department to execute the writ could be delayed by up to two months. After I agreed to sign the stay writ, her attorney then pressured me to provide a zero-balance ledger, despite Betty owing close to $20,000. Providing such a ledger would be a blatant lie, Shi wrote in an email to The News Tribune. It seems that her free attorney is engaging in unethical practices to advance the so-called housing justice agenda, which is both immoral and unjust. Tacomaprobono Community Lawyers declined to comment. The court terminated the legal-aid nonprofits representation of Halbert on July 25, court records show. The filing noted that further action in the eviction proceeding remained stayed until the nonprofit found replacement counsel for Halbert. Now that Halbert has left the premises in question, the issue of property possession is moot, according to Brunetti. In that situation, the court must either (1) dismiss the case, or (2) if the landlord wishes to pursue a judgment for rent or damages, the court can convert the case to a normal civil action, Brunetti wrote in an email. Seeking protection There are Washington laws in place to protect tenants who might sue for wrongful eviction. Its against the law to remove or exclude a tenant from the premises except under court order and for a landlord to intentionally cut off a tenants utility services. Theres also a covenant of quiet enjoyment implied in every lease, protecting a tenants right to use and enjoy a property from any wrongful act by a landlord. Shi said that his goal was always to pursue a legal eviction. Hes been accused before of harassing a tenant in Pierce County, but a lawsuit against him was dropped, court records show. In November 2022, a tenant sued Shi and alleged that, after missing two rental payments, they were threatened by other individuals, their possessions were bagged up and placed outside, and their power was disconnected. The lawsuit, which also claimed Shi had sent the tenant harassing text messages, was dismissed in February 2023. In a court filing responding to the allegations, Shi named a laundry list of the tenants alleged misdeeds. The tenant purportedly assaulted Shi, allowed an unauthorized occupant to live in the property, stole the internet router, threatened a housemate and vandalized Shis video camera, among other things. A housemate ultimately filed a protection order against the tenant, saying the tenant had sprayed them with mace from point-blank range. A sign advising of recording hangs in Betty Halberts window after she said a person broke into her backyard and peered into her bedroom. Last month, Halbert filed for her own protection order. She requested that the court prevent Shi from contacting or harming her and coming within 1,000 feet of her and her vehicle, court records show. Shi didnt respond to an inquiry seeking comment on the order, which most recently was reissued July 26 because the court needed more time to serve him. Halbert said she wanted the order in place despite her recent move. I wasnt there since 2018 just so I could just pick up and move in three days. That definitely was not my plan, she said. That was supposed to be my last home, you know? Since relocating, Halbert said she has felt a sense of relief and has been able to sleep better than in months. She said her focus now was on recovering medically and financially. She also doesnt have to worry about the threat of a humiliating ouster. Halbert shared a score of text messages with The News Tribune that she said were from her former property manager, who often inquired on behalf of Shi about rent that Halbert owed. In one message, dated May 24, the property manager implored Halbert to move out. If you dont move yourself, the sheriff will come to drag you out. We will take video of the whole process and send to your families, she wrote. What will you say to your grandchildren at that time? You can say, I took advantage of others and I wanted to take more, but police stopped me. Shi didnt respond to a question about the alleged text message one of more than a dozen questions about the Halbert situation sent to him by email. He had expressed concern over whether the story would be fair and balanced. He initially replied to The News Tribunes questions with questions of his own. He asked whether landlords should bear financial burdens, such as property taxes and mortgages, when legal interventions were used to delay eviction processes. He asked whether tenants should be entitled to free legal representation in straightforward cases, including non-payment of rent. Do you believe that tenants should be allowed to remain in a rental unit indefinitely without paying rent? Shi wrote. A Bremerton woman is accused of stabbing a man after she tried to steal his backpack at Tacomas Wright Park. The 35-year-old woman was charged with first-degree assault and first-degree attempted robbery for the Aug. 1 incident. She was scheduled to be arraigned Friday. Instead, deputy prosecutor Kaely Lawler asked the court to order her to undergo a competency evaluation. Pierce County Superior Court Commissioner Philip Thornton ordered her be held without bail pending the evaluation. Charging details Tacoma police officers were dispatched at 9:14 a.m. to a reported stabbing at Wright Park. Officers were advised that a woman stabbed a man in the neck with a pair of scissors, according to charging documents. The man was lying on his back near a walking trail with blood seeping from his shirt collar. Officers learned from the man that he did not know his attacker. She tried to take his backpack that was on the table he was sitting at. When he did not let her take the backpack, she allegedly pulled out a pair of scissors and stabbed him in the neck, prosecutors wrote. He found his friend after he was stabbed and told her to call the police, documents show. He was taken to St. Joseph Medical Center for his injuries. If the stab wound was a few millimeters in a different direction, the man would have bled out from an artery puncture, charging papers state. The woman was arrested near the restrooms at the park. A witness was able to identify her as the stabbing suspect. The scissors used to allegedly stab the man were located in her possession and had blood on them, prosecutors wrote. The witness said she saw the man and a woman sitting on a bench, prosecutors wrote. She saw and heard them arguing and recognized the woman as her bunkmate at the Nativity House, a homeless shelter in Tacoma. The witness said the man approached her and said, Call the cops, she stabbed me. The witness saw the woman walking behind the man following the incident. She reported that the woman allegedly approached her with scissors in her hand and pointed them at the witness who feared she was going to be stabbed. The witness said the womans behavior had become more erratic in the past several days, and she was concerned it was a mental health issue, prosecutors wrote. The woman previously was convicted in King County for second-degree assault and in Bremerton for fourth-degree assault. She also has criminal history in California, court records show. SHELBY COUNTY, Texas (KETK) Officials in Shelby County said on Tuesday they are searching for a man who has an active warrant for second-degree felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Police identify 18-year-old killed in Nacogdoches shooting Christopher Pleasant, 48 of Center, is described as 510 and about 210 pounds with hazel eyes. Anyone with information, is asked to contact the sheriffs office at 936-598-5601 or Sergeant Investigator Aaron Jones at 936-572-7559. Anyone found to be hindering the apprehension, harboring or concealing, providing or aiding with any means of avoiding arrest or effecting escape, or warns Pleasant of impending discovery or apprehension, will be arrested, authorities said in a statement. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. WEST WARICK, R.I. (WPRI) The owner of Sherris Come Along Inn has officially opened a brand new takeout spot in West Warwick. The new restaurant, simply called Sherris, celebrated its soft opening on Monday. Its less than a mile away from the original and has a drastically different menu, according to owner and namesake Sherri DelFino. DelFino explained that Sherris Come Along Inn is a full-service restaurant with a dining room and bar. Sherris, on the other hand, focuses primarily on takeout and delivery orders. Instead of the hearty meals DelFinos regulars have come to know and love, the new Sherris specializes in quick bites for those who are on the go. (Courtesy: Sherri DelFino) Sherris menu consists of hot and cold sandwiches, wraps, fresh salads including antipasto and cold salads, such as pasta, potato and coleslaw. DelFino plans to eventually expand the menu to include fish and chips, calzones and wings, among other prepared foods, but previously told 12 News she wants to get it right before doing so. Though Sherris has a couple of tables where guests can sit and eat, DelFino said there are no servers. The new restaurant also doesnt serve alcohol, she added, unlike her Coventry location. What her restaurants do have in common, according to DelFino, is the same laser focus on guest service and fresh food made from scratch. DelFino said her recipes have been handed down from generations and span several cultures, including American, Italian and Portuguese. She plans to leverage those recipes in her new restaurant to create dishes that are quick and convenient. Sherris, which is located off of Main Street where the old Donahues Pizza used to be, is currently open from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday. DelFino plans to launch an online ordering system for her new restaurant in the near future. This embedded content is not available in your region. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Going to a very bad place: Israeli reservists who refuse to return to Gaza cite militarys destructive approach Every day for two months, Michael Ofer Ziv spent hours watching grainy, black-and-white footage of the Gaza Strip from a tiny room across the border. As an operations commander, he was tracking Israeli forces inside Gaza and approving airstrikes. Every day, he said, his unit had a certain quota to fill. They will tell us, today you have seven, today you have nine you sometimes argue for more, but you will never fire less than youre given, he told CNN in an interview. CNN has reached out to the Israeli military for comment on his claims. One by one, buildings blew up on his screen like a hypnotic reel of destruction. At first, it was easy to forget that those images were real, and not just a video game playing on a screen. But the more he stepped out of that war room, the more he was exposed to the reality of those strikes. One minute, he was looking at soundless footage of airstrikes he ordered; the next, he was on his phone watching unfiltered videos of Palestinians shrieking, carrying their loved ones who had been killed because of the Israeli military. This is happening in real life and has an actual effect on those people at some point, your brain kind of cannot disconnect those two things anymore, he said. Once he connected those dots, there was no going back. Asked for comment, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) told CNN that Ofer Zivs claims around targeting were baseless, unfounded, and misrepresent the sensitivity, precaution, and strict obligation to international law with which the IDF selects and pursues its targets. Michael Ofer Ziv carries a sign that says 'Peace' in Arabic and Hebrew, calling for a ceasefire and hostage deal at a protest in Tel Aviv. - CNN Like thousands of Israeli reservists, Ofer Ziv was called up to war following the Hamas-led attacks on Israel on October 7, in which at least 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 others taken hostage, Israeli authorities said. He knew the army had to respond but was concerned about what that response might look like because of how widespread the language of revenge was. His concerns were soon validated, he said. In May, he and 40 other reservists signed an open letter declaring they would refuse to serve Israels war in Gaza again after the IDF launched a military offensive in Rafah, southern Gaza, where many of the civilians displaced by the conflict had fled. They readily acknowledge that they represent a tiny minority of reservists who oppose the war, but they hope that their decision to take a public stand will spark a debate in Israeli society and put pressure on the government to prioritize a ceasefire deal. If we are deciding to go into Rafah instead of making a deal, I felt like it was a statement of us saying we care more about killing Palestinians and destroying Gaza than we (do) about actually finishing this, actually having a long-term solution, actually releasing the hostages, Ofer Ziv said. His conscience just wouldnt allow him to continue. He couldnt fathom the colossal number of casualties inflicted upon Palestinian civilians. There is also a decision here to not be as careful as we can be, or even be careless and disregard human life, he said. I can count on my hand the amount of times we were told we are not allowed to shoot at something the main vibe was we shoot first, ask questions later, he added. Palestinian children walk past a house damaged in an Israeli strike in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, on May 1, 2024. - Hatem Khaled/Reuters In its comment to CNN, the IDF said it was fully committed to respecting all applicable international legal obligations and to mitigating civilian harm during military operations. The IDF does not aim to inflict excessive damage to civilian infrastructure and strikes exclusively on the grounds of military necessity and in strict accordance with international law, it said. Going to a very bad place And while Ofer Ziv was watching Gazas destruction from behind a screen, Yuval Green was witnessing it happen in real life. Green served as a combat medic in Gaza between October and December last year. But a day before he was recruited for reserve duty, he was planning on leaving the army, he says, objecting to its treatment of Palestinians and the occupation of the West Bank. The October 7 attacks made him delay his decision for the sake of his comrades. When I went inside Gaza, I had a moment of realization that right now, Im here only for my friends. No political reasons. I dont believe we need to be here at all, he told CNN. Green said he felt his role was to protect the civilians who had been attacked on October 7 and thought the Israeli military would go in and target Hamas. He didnt expect it to go on for as long as it did. Just like Ofer Ziv, he was concerned before the war began about where it might go, because of how furious Israelis were. Ideas like killing the entire population of Gaza suddenly became almost normal suddenly hearing our commanders say that were not going to be merciful this time I felt like we were going to a very bad place, he said. Green recalled the immeasurable level of destruction he observed. While some commanders would order the demolition of houses for military purposes, most times it was because they want to ruin Palestinian houses and they think thats the right thing to do, he said. They dont really care about the lives of Palestinians weve inflicted so much damage upon Gaza, something that would be beyond the imagination of any reasonable person I cant imagine how people would go back to living there, he continued. The final blow for him was when his commander ordered their platoon to burn down a house in the city of Khan Younis, southern Gaza, that he was sure would be rehabilitated after the war. I was trying to understand the reasons for that, if there is any military reason and the commander just didnt have good enough answers, he said. The next day, he hopped into a vehicle making a supply run out of Gaza, and never came back. Reservist Yuval Green served as a combat medic in Gaza for two months and is refusing to serve in Israel's army again. - Yuval Green Losing so much Reservists who refuse to serve again, like Ofer Ziv and Green, could face serious consequences. Disobeying an order and refusing to serve is both a disciplinary and criminal offense, according to Israeli human rights lawyer Michael Sfard. As a criminal offense, it carries up to three years in prison, but sometimes more than that in times of war, Sfard told CNN. In normal circumstances, reservists are not called up for more than a month at a time, so they are usually not tried consecutive times, he added. What it really boils down to is who your commander is and how they will react to your decision, Sfard, who is a former refuser himself, said. There is a very delicate balance here between two interests the army has. One is, punish severely those who refuse to serve to deter others from doing the same. The other is not to give too much publicity to those who are not ready to serve, because then it causes others to follow them too. Yuval Green said soldiers damaged Palestinian homes in Gaza by drawing graffiti on the walls. - Yuval Green Despite the risks, both Green and Ofer Ziv are committed to their decision. Green lamented the way Israels military culture has dominated the public sphere, making anyone who criticizes the war or refuses to serve be viewed as a traitor. Those in his platoon have heard him speak out against the war and the militarys conduct since hes left Gaza. Some respect his opinion, even if they disagree with it. Others have said he is darkening their names, he said. I felt this was a really stupid idea. How can I harm your names by saying the truth? You harmed your name yourself by doing the type of things that were done there, he said. Even though he risked his life in Gaza, he is dumbfounded by the fact that his friends and family are more concerned about his safety now hes spoken out than they were back then. We could end the war today. Israel as the stronger player could choose to do it and is choosing not to for several reasons were losing so much, the Palestinians are losing so much, for every minute its not being signed, he said. Similarly, Ofer Ziv thinks bringing the issue of refusing military service into the public debate might wake people up and let them know that its an option not to participate. We have so many systems that are built so we wont have to question the position we are in I do prefer to go to jail than to participate in what were doing in Gaza, but I prefer to do neither if its possible. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A new study has found that the Great Salt Lake, which has lost 73 percent of its water, is releasing climate-warming emissions. For years, scientists and environmental leaders have been raising alarm that the Great Salt Lake is headed toward a catastrophic decline. Now, new research points to the lakes desiccating shores also becoming an increasingly significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. Scientists have calculated that dried out portions of the lakebed released about 4.1 million tons of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in 2020, based on samples collected over seven months that year. Their study, published last month in the journal One Earth, suggests that the Great Salt Lake which is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere and other shrinking saline lakes across the world could become major contributors of climate-warming emissions. The research also adds to a dire list of environmental consequences brought on by the lakes precipitous decline. Last year, environmental and community groups sued Utah officials over failures to save the famous lake from irreversible collapse. In recent decades, as more and more water has been diverted away from the lake to irrigate farmland, feed industry and water lawns, a report last year estimated that the lake had lost 73 percent of its water and 60 percent of its surface area. Its decline was accelerated by global heating and a megadrought in the U.S. Southwest. The declining lake has exposed a dusty lakebed laced with arsenic, mercury, lead, and other toxic substances that threaten to increase rates of respiratory conditions, heart and lung disease, and cancers. As its volume shrinks, the lake is also becoming saltier and uninhabitable to native flies and brine shrimp. Eventually, scientists have warned that it may be unable to support the 10 million migratory birds and wildlife that frequent it. I think the impacts on air quality, the impacts on migratory birds and other wildlife are maybe more pressing, locally, said Soren Brothers, a climate change curator at Canadas Royal Ontario Museum, who led the study. But especially at a time when we are all trying to find ways to reduce our carbon footprint, as Salt Lake City is working to reduce emissions, this desiccating lake is adding some of that back. Other research has documented emissions from other saline lakes, including the Aral Sea in central Asia, though more research is needed to fully understand the extent. Both saline and freshwater lakes can act as carbon sinks, he noted in some cases locking up huge amounts of carbon in their sediments. But as the climate crisis hastens the decline of these lakes, they could begin unleashing large amounts of carbon dioxide that in turn could exacerbate global heating, creating a vicious feedback loop. Brothers said they hope the study encourages researchers to take more measurements of emissions from across and around Great Salt Lake to better understand how much carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases it is absorbing and emitting. I think this research adds just one more to a long list of reasons we should be working to preserve the lake, said John C. Lin, an atmospheric scientist and associate director at the University of Utahs Wilkes Center for Climate Science and Policy. In a study published in June, Lin and his colleagues also found that exposure to particulate pollution from the lakebed was highest for Pacific Islanders and Hispanic residents, and lowest among white residents probably because minority and low-income communities are more likely to lie in the path of wind-blown dust from the lake. Preserving the lakes levels would decrease dust pollution and reduce stark racial disparities in exposure to air pollution, the researchers found. Theres now a lot of attention on the lake and that gives me hope, he said. Because the crisis has galvanized the community to try to do something. Hes part of a team of researchers helping to turn the lakes fate around by 2034, when Utah is set to host the Winter Olympics. There are a lot of eyes on Utah and Salt Lake City right now. So we have to get it right. Maanvi Singh, The Guardian ALSO ON YALE E360 The Great Salt Lake and Its Web of Life Face an Uncertain Future Significant commuter rail delays after man struck, killed by train in Brockton A person was fatally struck by an MBTA commuter rail train in Brockton on Tuesday morning, causing significant delays along the Middleboro Line, officials said. An investigation determined that a man was struck on the tracks near Brockton Station just before 5:15 a.m., according to Transit police. The man, whose name hasnt been released, was pronounced dead at the scene. Trains were held at nearby stations and buses operated between Brockton and Campello stations and Braintree while emergency crews worked at the scene. Shortly before 7:10 a.m., trains started to operate through Brockton on one track at a reduced speed. Delays will still occur due to police activity on the right of way in Brockton, the MBTA said in a post on X. Investigators noted that foul play is not suspected in the mans death. State police detectives assigned to the Plymouth District Attorneys Office are assisting Transit police with an investigation. Middleborough Line trains are now able to operate through Brockton on one track at a reduced speed. Delays will still occur due to police activity on the right of way in Brockton. MBTA Commuter Rail (@MBTA_CR) August 6, 2024 Middleborough Line trains will experience significant delays due to police activity on the right of way in Brockton. Trains will hold at at nearby stations. Buses are operating from Brockton and Campello to Braintree to accommodate passengers. MBTA Commuter Rail Alerts (@MBTA_CR_Alerts) August 6, 2024 This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) A Sikh man was arrested at John F. Kennedy International Airport after police accused him of carrying a weapon. Ruppenjot Singh, a 23-year-old yellow cab driver, recalled the Friday evening encounter at the airport that he and his supporters describe as an exercise in religious intolerance. More Local News At issue is the small dagger, or Kirpan that Ruppenjot and other followers of the Sikh faith are required to carry on their person along with several other religious articles. He just saw the Kirpan and called the cops on me. I told them this is my religion and I cant remove it from my body, said Singh. Singh says his trouble started on the Terminal 4 passenger pick-up line where he says one of the airports dispatchers singled him out as soon as he stepped out of his vehicle. He says when he spoke up for himself, the dispatcher then called the police. Singh also alleges the dispatcher lied when he told responding Port Authority police officers that he had tried to stab the dispatcher with his Kirpan. If the video comes out, everything will be cleared. I never did nothing. I never took out my Kirpan. I never tried to stab him. They just arrested me. Singh emphasizes that he told them he could not remove the Kirpan as it is his religion. Woman accused of pushing 2 tourists onto Manhattan subway tracks There is legal precedent specifically the 1987 case of People vs Singh that established a Sikhs right to lawfully carry a Kirpan. Sikh community activist Japneet Singh, who is no relation to Ruppenjot says, We want a complete dismissal of the charge. Second, we need a way to mandate some kind of religious-based training of diversity-based training for Port Authority as well as other city and state agencies. Singh was given a desk appearance ticket and is due back in court on August 22nd. A Port Authority spokesperson confirmed that Singh faces charges, including menacing, harassment, and criminal possession of a weapon. The agency also confirmed they are investigating whether the incident with the dispatcher was caught on surveillance video. PIX11 News reached out to Port Authority about whether the agency provides officers training about a Kirpan and its significance in the Sikh faith. The agency sent the following statement from a Port Authority spokesperson: The Port Authority Police Department provides cultural sensitivity training to its officers to better serve the regions diverse communities. In this case, the PAPD was responding to a report of a threat of violence from a third party. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. After several of its brightest stars declared support for former President Donald Trump last month, Silicon Valley has now come out in force for Vice President Kamala Harris. Though Silicon Valley remains a stronghold of support for Democrats, the Biden's administration's hawkish approach to tech has alienated many in the industry, and in recent months a number of high-profile entrepreneurs and investors including Elon Musk have backed Trump. But Harris, a Bay Area native with ties to the industry, could forge a stronger relationship with the Valley and has already received pledges of support from a new group called VCs for Harris -- representing hundreds of prominent venture capitalists. Leslie Feinzaig, the venture capitalist who started VCs for Harris, said she recently wrote a pledge and bought a URL to host its site without expecting much. MORE: Harris officially names Tim Walz as vice presidential running mate Within days, billionaire entrepreneur and television personality Mark Cuban and LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman joined the group. "I basically haven't slept since," Feinzaig said. PHOTO: Reid Hoffman attends at the Allen & Company Sun Valley Conference, July 11, 2024, in Sun Valley, Idaho. (Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) Feinzaig's efforts have resulted in more than 700 pledges of support for Harris, and could signal a friendlier relationship between the vice president and the Valley than Biden has had. "Silicon Valley had no friends in Washington during the Biden administration," said Georgetown Law Center professor and technology regulation expert Anupam Chander. "You have the Department of Justice, which has filed those antitrust lawsuits. You have the White House and the U.S. Trade Representative, who have been retreating from efforts to ensure free flow of data across the world." And, of course, Chander said, you have Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan, who has gained an army of fans -- and detractors -- for leading an ambitious effort to regulate giants such as Amazon and Meta. PHOTO: Vice President Kamala Harris delivers an address on Artificial Intelligence policy at the U.S. embassy, Nov. 1, 2023, in London. (Carl Court/Getty Images) The Biden administration did, however, work to pass the CHIPS Act, which allocated billions to onshore the production of semiconductors used in many electronics -- an achievement celebrated by the leading tech industry advocacy group as "a major victory." Still, leading venture capitalists Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz, the co-founders of investment fund Andreessen Horowitz, cited concerns about Biden's policies in a podcast episode announcing their support for Trump. "The future of our business, the future of technology, new technology and the future of America is literally at stake," Horowitz said. MORE: Election 2024 updates: Obama, Pelosi and others react to Harris' VP pick Despite continuing frustrations with the Biden administration, according to industry insiders, Democrats appear to retain the support of most in Silicon Valley. "Many of us are frustrated with Biden administration's sort of anti-technology, anti-business stance," said Silicon Valley investor and entrepreneur Merci Grace. Grace said voting against Trump would be "pretty easy" for her and most of her peers, 70 or 80 percent of whom she estimates will ultimately support Harris. Feinzaig said some of the high-profile figures in the industry who have come out in support of Trump "weren't speaking for the full industry." PHOTO: Elon Musk addresses the European Jewish Association's conference in Krakow, Poland, Jan. 22, 2024. (Czarek Sokolowski/AP, FILE) Still, Trump has made inroads in certain corners of Silicon Valley. In June, a fundraiser hosted by tech billionaire David Sacks in coordination with Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance -- a former venture capitalist with ties to another prominent conservative tech mogul, Peter Thiel -- raised $12 million for the former president's campaign. Trump has also received endorsements from a number of prominent entrepreneurs in the cryptocurrency sector, promising in his 2024 platform to "end Democrats' unlawful and unAmerican Crypto crackdown." Also, he spoke at the annual Bitcoin Conference in late July. The former president has taken a stern stance on big tech companies, calling them "too big" and "too powerful" in a July interview with Bloomberg, but saying "I don't want to destroy them." Some expect Harris, meanwhile, to assuage concerns in the Valley by taking a more dovish approach than the Biden administration, though they say her policy views on tech remain an open question. "I would expect to return to a more technocratic stance," said Rob Merges, a law professor at U.C. Berkeley who spent several decades working in the tech industry. "A traditional Clinton, Obama -- you know, friendly to the benefits of technology, reasonable in regulation, and cautious to not go too far in any one direction." Chander said he thinks Harris is "someone who recognizes the importance of innovation, but also worries about some of the harms that might follow." PHOTO: Streetcars at Embarcadero Plaza in Silicon Valley in San Francisco, June 1, 2021. (Jim McAuley/Bloomberg via Getty Images) But, he noted, "because Harris didn't go through a regular primary, we haven't seen her stake out positions on some issues." Since Biden announced he would not seek reelection on July 21, Harris has not mentioned the tech industry in public campaign remarks and her campaign declined to comment on whether she would keep Khan at the head of the FTC (high-profile donors including Hoffman have recently urged her to do the reverse). But the Valley needs no introduction to the vice president. Harris dealt with the tech industry as California's attorney general and has headed some of the Biden administration's efforts surrounding artificial intelligence, working with top AI companies to agree on voluntary guidelines for the responsible use of generative AI. The vice president's brother-in-law, Tony West, also serves as chief legal officer for Uber, headquartered in San Francisco. In remarks about AI in November, she said she and Biden "reject the false choice that suggests we can either protect the public or advance innovation." Grace said she gets the sense that Harris is "a reasonable person who is very intelligent, and we can have a discussion with her." She added that Trump "is just someone who you can't trust." "It's not worth the temporary alignment to make a little bit more money on top of the billions that you already have -- to get in bed with someone who you can't trust," Grace said. Feinzaig also shared her trust in Harris. "I feel like we have a candidate that is listening." Silicon Valley leaders get behind Kamala Harris originally appeared on abcnews.go.com SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) Sioux Citys city council voted 3-1 with one abstained to grant LAMB Theatre more time to vacate 417 Market Street. They have until September 30 to vacate the premises. City documents indicate theres still a lot of LAMB Theatre property in the building. Theatre officials informed the city that they have secured storage for those items and asked for the extension to get the items off the property. New Disaster Recovery Centers opening in Siouxland Mayor Bob Scott spoke with KCAU 9 about the buildings future. I guess wed be open to some suggestions, he said, but right now I think the important thing is we get it boarded up really good or we get it down so that its not a detriment to the neighborhood, which I think it can become if we dont do something quickly with it. back in march of this year, council members terminate the lease between the city and lamb arts for the market street property. lamb theatre was given 90 days Which was June 17th to vacate the premises. Back in March, council members terminated the lease between the city and LAMB Arts for the Market Street property. LAMB Theatre was given 90 days, which was until June 17, to vacate the premises Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) The Sioux City Neighborhood Network is inviting residents to celebrate National Night Out Tuesday night. National Night Out is a local effort to promote neighborhood involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, and neighborhood relationships and camaraderie. Goodwill donating over $13,000 to American Red Cross flood relief efforts The following Sioux City neighborhoods will be hosting events with free food, games, bounce houses, and more. Radiant Life Community Church: 2410 West 1st Street Riverside Lutheran Church: 1817 Riverside Boulevard Dale Street Park: 1514 Dale Street Latham Park: 1915 South Lemon Street St. Mark Lutheran Church: 5200 Glenn Avenue St. John Lutheran Church: 2801 Jackson Street Leeds Splash Pad: 3810 41st Street Ffrom 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., residents in neighborhoods throughout Sioux City and across the nation are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights, and spend the evening outside with neighbors and representatives of Sioux City Police, Fire Departments, area agencies and organizations. For more information on National Night Out, residents may contact Sioux Citys Neighborhood Network President, Rick Arnold, at 712-251-8877. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. Sir Richard Bransons Virgin Atlantic has been banned from describing its green jet fuel as sustainable after it was accused of misleading customers during an advertising campaign. In a ruling on Tuesday, Virgin was found to have breached rules while advertising its first-ever transatlantic service powered by so-called sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The decision by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) represents a blow to the airline and Shai Weiss, its chief executive, who has made efforts to cut carbon emissions a cornerstone of the carriers marketing campaigns. The flight in question, which took place last November, was intended to demonstrate Virgins commitment to slashing CO2 emissions and attracted huge fanfare. Rishi Sunak, the former prime minister, even sent a personal message over video that hailed the airline as an industry trailblazer. Right now something very exciting is happening in the sky above us pic.twitter.com/rOoIkfPNqh Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) November 28, 2023 The ASA probe was triggered by just five complaints about the advert, which aired over radio and featured a voice saying that Virgin was bidding to become the worlds first commercial airline to fly transatlantic on 100pc sustainable aviation fuel. Mark Harper, the then transport secretary, accompanied Sir Richard aboard the experimental journey, which was the result of a government competition to receive 1m of funding for the first net zero flight between London and New York. About 90pc of the SAF used for the flight came from recovered animal fats, with the rest refined from sugars derived from industrial corn starch. Since the carbon produced had been recently captured from the atmosphere, that delivered a lifecycle CO2 saving of 64pc. The ASA said Virgins reference to the flight being 100pc sustainable and sustainable was therefore misleading. Miles Lockwood, the ASAs director of complaints and investigations, warned that companies must produce robust evidence when making such claims. Virgin Atlantic said the adverts wording mirrored that used by the Department for Transport in launching the competition and was intended to reference the type of fuel used, rather than implying that SAF in itself was 100pc sustainable. A Virgin spokesman said: SAF is a term used globally by industry and government for fossil-alternative aviation fuels that adhere to specific sustainability criteria. It added that the advert accurately stated that the flight would be operated as a single, non-commercial flight using 100pc SAF. The ASA ruling calls into question the ability of airlines to promote their investment in efforts to reduce carbon emissions. The International Air Transport Association, which represents more than 300 carriers, said that while it is right that sustainability claims should be scrutinised, the industry must not be prevented from communicating its strategy for reducing emissions. A spokesman said: Meeting the net zero target will rely heavily on SAF. That is why raising awareness about SAF through communication is vital. With technologies such as electrical and hydrogen propulsion still years away and unlikely to produce enough thrust to power full-sized airliners, switching to SAF is regarded as the airline industrys only realistic route to shrinking their CO2 footprint in the coming decades. While normal flights are permitted to use up to 50pc SAF, a chronic shortage of the fuel and its high cost compared to traditional kerosene meant it represented just 0.2pc of industry-wide fuel usage last year. Labour committed to boosting SAF production in the Kings Speech. In its defence, Virgin cited a survey commissioned in response to the complaints in which 68pc of people said they understood that its claims related to the proportion of SAF used. The ASA said the same survey showed 11pc mistakenly thought that the fuel had zero environmental impact. Virgin said that while disappointed that the ASA has ruled in favour of a small number of complaints, it remained committed to leading industry efforts to achieve net zero CO2 emissions by 2050. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Sister of Larry Meredith speaks on his legacy, city hosts first annual walk in his name A memorial walk taking place this afternoon to honor the life and accomplishments of Larry Meredith. The first African American to serve on Erie City Council. Along with the memorial walk, a bust is being unveiled of Larry Meredith as a way to remember him and his service on his birthday. Larry Meredith dies at 76, first African American to sit on Erie City Council Members of the community are coming together for a memorial walk in honor of Larry Meredith. The sister of Meredith, Anita Meredith said the walk reflects what her brother did on a daily basis. Which was walk from the courthouse in between the courthouse and city hall and that was his daily routine and we just want to take time out and reflect that, Anita said. At the end of the walk is a bust being unveiled of Meredith at city hall. A number of groups from the area participated including sororities, fraternities, the Elks, and Masons. Erie City Council members speak on the legacy of Larry Meredith Anita said her brother was all about service and his legacy will highlight that. Oh he sat on numerous boards he was a part of the Airport Authority, he sat on the JFK, a few non-profit boards, she said. She said she is humbled by the support of many who showed their support for her brother. How people are just coming up to me asking me are you Larrys sister Im like yes and they said I just want to thank you for what he did for me he helped my mother he helped my father he helped my sister brother someone in my family he helped me and didnt charge me anything, Anita explained. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News City of Erie Mayor Joe Schember reacted to the work done by Meredith. Larry Meredith the first African American ever to serve on city council he did a great job I remember him well I was younger than him so I grew up watching him and what he did really impressed with that, Mayor Schember said. The mayor said the overall support here shows the impact Mr. Meredith had on the community. This is very impressive the way Erie County all of Erie County has come together in this and just shown their support and their love for Larry and Im just one of those people and its a wonderful thing, Schember went on to say. Permanent location now being provided for EUMAs Our Neighbors Place Anita Meredith said this is the first annual memorial walk but she plans to have many more with a lasting legacy of the service her brother gave to Erie for over 45 years. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. "You were an angel amongst us," the husband of Devrey LaRiccia Chase wrote in tribute after the Aug. 2 incident Freddy Chase/Instagram Devrey LaRiccia Chase "Dust devils" are believed to have caused the death of a skydiving teacher in California in an accident that also left a student in the hospital. Skydive Perris instructor Devrey LaRiccia Chase, 28, and her student were on a routine skydive when they collided with the dust devils causing them to crash down into the ground in Perris, Calif., KTLA 5 News reported. The tragic incident occurred on Aug. 2. The pair were transported to the hospital for their injuries, where Chase was later pronounced dead, per the outlet. Dust devils are vortices containing dust and debris that form in very hot conditions resembling small tornadoes that can reach heights of several thousand feet, according to the National Weather Service. Devreys husband Freddy Chase, who is a popular skydiver with 418,000 followers on Instagram, wrote on his Instagram Stories on Monday, Aug. 5 that there was no malfunction prior to the incident. Freddy Chase/Instagram Skydiver Freddy Chase with his wife Devrey who died on Aug. 2 Related: 73-Year-Old Ariz. Man Dies in Skydiving Incident After Landing Without a Fully Deployed Parachute He explained that his wife was on her final jump of the day and was turning her canopy to come land safely in the grass, like she has done hundreds of times when she noticed the dust devils. At 40 ft Devrey avoided one of them, but caught a second one, he continued. With dust devil's going over grass they become invisible because you can't see any dust in the direction they're going. It then sent her canopy in an uncontrolled spin to the ground. Freddy added that his wife was not in pain and that she was unconscious but breathing immediately after the fall and before she was taken to hospital. Speaking to KTLA 5 News, he said that he and his wife shared a passion for skydiving and that she filmed the majority of his popular video content of him taking parachute jumps. Chase moved to California with her husband from Maine eight years ago, according to the outlet. Freddy Chase/Instagram Devrey died after colliding with a "dust devil" in a skydive jump Related: French Pilot Sentenced for Decapitating Skydiver with Wing of Plane During Jump Freddy wrote in tribute to his late wife on Instagram: I don't even really know how to write this ... there isn't words I can put down. But I'm going to try ... Devrey Jane lariccia Chase, my soul, my love, my other half, my baby, my ride or die, my everything, my wife ... You were too perfect for this world. ... You were an angel amongst us having spent the 5 precious years with you was a gift, you made me a better man, Freddy continued, while sharing photos of the pair together. ... Having to say goodbye to you for now will forever be the hardest thing I will ever do in my life. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. A GoFundMe page has been set up by the family of Chase to raise money for her transport back to Maine. It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the tragic passing of our beloved daughter and sister. Devrey LaRiccia. Due to the circumstances, we need assistance to help Devrey get home to Maine and to the final resting place that all who knew and loved her know she deserves, the page reads. PEOPLE has contacted Skydive Perris for further comment. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Tropical Storm Debby drenches Southeast with rain, high water as it drifts along the Atlantic coast Savannah Fire Advanced Firefighters Andrew Stevenson, front, and Ron Strauss carry food to residents in the Tremont Park neighborhood that where stranded in flooding from Tropical Storm Debby, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Savannah, Ga. (AP Photo/Stephen B. Morton) CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) Tropical Storm Debby drenched coastal cities in Georgia and South Carolina, stirred up tornadoes and submerged streets with waist-high floodwaters Tuesday, just the beginning of a prolonged storm that could dump staggering rain totals of up to 25 inches (64 centimeters). Charleston and Savannah, Georgia, took the first blow, with up to a foot (30 centimeters) of rain falling along the coast between the two cities in just over 24 hours. Police blocked all roads into Charlestons downtown peninsula to everyone but essential workers and emergency personnel. Dozens of roads were closed in the historic city because of flooding similar to what it sees several times a year because of rising sea levels. As Debby swirls just offshore, the heavy rain is expected to move north into parts of South and North Carolina that have already seen two billion-dollar floods in eight years. In one Savannah neighborhood, firefighters used boats to evacuate some residents and waded through floodwaters to deliver bottled water and other supplies to those who refused to leave. Michael Jones said water gushed into his home Monday evening, overturning the refrigerator and causing furniture to float. Outside, the water seemed to be everywhere and was too deep to flee safely. So Jones spent a sleepless night on his kitchen table before firefighters going door to door came in a boat Tuesday morning. It was hell all night, Jones said, adding, It was a struggle, but God is good. In Charleston, Mayor William Cogswell said the road closures have kept businesses and homes from unnecessary damage and avoided the need for any high-water rescues. We especially dont need any yahoos driving through the water and causing damage to properties, Cogswell said. South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster said Debby has not been as bad as feared so far, but he warned that the slow-moving storm was far from over. It will be a nervous few days for northern South Carolina and southern North Carolina, where forecasters warned of up to 15 inches (38 centimeters) of rain. Those totals are close to what the region saw in a historic flood from Hurricane Matthew in 2016. Two years later, many of those records were broken during Hurricane Florence. Both storms killed dozens. North Carolina and Virginia have both declared a state of emergency. The effects of Debby are far-reaching, and our neighboring states are facing significant challenges, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin said. Several areas along North Carolina's coastline are prone to flooding, such as Wilmington and the Outer Banks. Virginia could see impacts including strong winds, heavy rains and flooding. Debby's center was about 30 miles (50 kilometers southeast of Savannah on Tuesday night, according to a bulletin from the National Hurricane Center. It had maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 kph) and was heading east-northeast at 3 mph (6 kph). The storm was forecast to slowly move out to sea, then creep back onshore over South Carolina on Thursday morning. Tropical cyclones always produce heavy rain, but normally as theyre moving, you know, it doesnt accumulate that much in one place, said Richard Pasch, of the hurricane center. But when they move very slowly, thats the worst situation. There will be lulls in the rain as dry spells appear between bands around the center of the poorly organized storm, forecasters said. But some bands will be heavy and keep moving over the same places. Green Pond in rural Colleton County, South Carolina, reported the most rain so far, just over 14 inches (36 centimeters). A nearby dam had water run over its top but did not crumble, while trees and washouts blocked a number of roads, county Fire-Rescue Assistant Chief David Greene said. Close to a foot (30 centimeters) fell down-coast from Charleston to Savannah, where the National Weather Service reported 6.68 inches (17 centimeters) just on Monday. Thats already a months worth in a single day: In all of August 2023, the city got 5.56 inches (14.1 centimeters). Tornadoes knocked down trees and damaged a few homes on Kiawah Island and Edisto Island. A Walmart, an Arbys and other businesses were damaged and several vehicles flipped in Moncks Corner, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) inland from Charleston. Crooked Hammock Brewery in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, decided to close early Tuesday. Flash flooding is super unpredictable, and wed rather our staff and guests be home and safe, marketing coordinator Georgena Dimitriadis said. Far to the north in New York City, heavy storms that meteorologists said were being enhanced by Debby flooded some streets and expressways, stranding motorists. The National Weather Service issued a flood watch until noon Wednesday for the entire city. Emergency officials warned of potential flash flooding, flying drones with loudspeakers in some neighborhoods to tell people in basement apartments to be ready to flee at a moments notice. Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane early Monday along the Gulf Coast of Florida. At least six people have died due to the storm, five of them in traffic accidents or from fallen trees. The sixth death involved a 48-year-old man in Gulfport, Florida, whose body was recovered after his anchored sailboat partially sank, WTSP-TV reported. About 500 people were rescued Monday from flooded homes in Sarasota, Florida, police said. Just north of Sarasota, Manatee County officials said more than 200 people were rescued. Officials said it may take two weeks to fully assess the damage in parts of north-central Florida as they wait for rivers to crest. Youre going to see the tributaries rise. Thats just inevitable. How much? Well see, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday. It may be that its not flooded today and it could be flooded tomorrow. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp also warned of more rain and flooding to come, saying, Do not let this storm lull you to sleep. More than 155,000 customers remained without power in Florida and Georgia on Tuesday morning, down from more than 350,000, according to PowerOutage.us and Georgia Electric Membership Corp. More than 20,000 others were without power in South Carolina early Tuesday. President Joe Biden approved emergency declarations making federal disaster assistance available to Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. Debby is finally forecast to pick up speed Thursday, and it could move up the middle of North Carolina, through Virginia and into the Washington area by Saturday. ___ Collins reported from Columbia, South Carolina. Contributors include Jeff Martin and Sudhin Thanawala in Atlanta; Freida Frisaro in Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Kate Payne in Tallahassee, Florida; and Ben Finley in Norfolk, Virginia; and freelance photographer Stephen B. Morton in Savannah, Georgia. The arm bone was used to calculate the likely size of the species Members of the smallest human species ever found stood just over 3ft tall, palaeontologists have discovered. One of the diminutive hominids, who lived around 700,000 years ago, has been identified from a single arm bone that was discovered at Mata Menge, in the Soa Basin, on the Indonesian island of Flores. Flores is well known for its tiny humans, with Homo floresiensis nicknamed the Hobbit existing until as recently as 50,000 years ago, and overlapping with modern humans. Standing on average at around 3.5ft tall, Homo floresiensis had been thought to be the smallest humans ever, but the newly discovered species was 2.3 inches shorter. Experts believe it may be an ancestor of the Hobbit, having evolved from an Asian variant of Homo erectus. This 700,000-year-old adult humerus (arm bone) is not just shorter than that of Homo floresiensis, it is the smallest upper arm bone known from the hominin fossil record worldwide, said Professor Adam Burmm, of Griffith Universitys Australian Research Centre for Human Evolution, in Brisbane. This very rare specimen confirms our hypothesis that the ancestors of Homo floresiensis were extremely small in body size. However, it is now apparent from the tiny proportions of this limb bone that the early progenitors of the Hobbit were even smaller than we had previously thought. The small size of the hominids on Flores is thought to have arisen from island dwarfism an evolutionary phenomenon in which creatures shrink after becoming isolated with limited food and resources. An ancient species of pygmy elephant on Flores stood just 3.9ft tall, compared to the 13ft typical of African elephants today. Big teeth, small brains The Hobbit humans had relatively large feet similar to JRR Tolkeins characters as well as tiny brains, large teeth, sloping shoulders, no chins and receding foreheads. Despite their small brains, they were skilled toolmakers, and hunted the small elephants and large rodents on the island. Remains of the little humans were first discovered in 2003, at Liang Bua cave on the west of Flores and there was wide-ranging debate about where they had come from. The new fossil was discovered around 45 miles east of Liang Bua, where a stream ran around 700,000 years ago. The site had already yielded teeth from at least three individuals, which seemed to suggest a new species or variant which had smaller jaws than Homo floresiensis. However, because there were no remains below the head, the theory was impossible to prove. New excavations uncovered two new teeth and, more importantly, the distal shaft of an adult humerus the lower half of the upper arm bone. Based on the estimated length of the bone, the team was able to calculate the body height of 3.2ft. The two additional hominin teeth from Mata Menge are also small in size and one bears shape characteristics that are most consistent with early Homo erectus of Java. All the fossils are very similar anatomically to the Liang Bua Homo floresiensis and so can now be regarded as an older, less-specialised variant of the Hobbits, the experts concluded. The new fossils strongly suggest that the Hobbit story did indeed begin when a group of the early Asian hominins known as Homo erectus somehow became isolated on this remote Indonesian island, perhaps one million years ago, and underwent a dramatic body size reduction over time. The research was published in the journal Nature Communications. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Smallest Known Species of Human May Have Had an Even Smaller Ancestor Homo floresiensis holds the record for the smallest human species to have ever graced our planet, but some of them might have been even smaller than we first imagined. A 700,000-year-old fragment of an adult humerus uncovered in 2013 has recently been classified as belonging to an early representative of a species once colorfully described as 'hobbits'. Smaller than any in the fossil record from this ancient cousin or any other hominin for that matter the piece of upper arm bone expands the picture we have of an unusual relative that walked on Earth alongside us until as recently as 50,000 years ago. The early human fossil, together with some small teeth, was discovered on the eastern side of the Indonesian island of Flores at an open-air site called Mata Menge. "This 700,000-year-old adult humerus is not just shorter than that of H. floresiensis, it is the smallest upper arm bone known from the hominin fossil record worldwide," says archaeologist Adam Brumm from Griffith University in Australia. The scans labeled a-g show the humerus discovered at Mata Menge, at different angles. The humerus specimen found at Liang Bua is shown in scans labeled h and i, for comparison. (Kaifu et al., Nature Communications, 2024) Tiny bones could of course come from children, but researchers were able to determine this bone is from an adult by analyzing microscopic cylindrical functional structures called osteons found in the compact outer surface of the bone. The number, size, and arrangement of osteons change as the bone matures during life, indicating the individual's age at death. The arm bone's microscopic structure resembled that of an adult Homo sapien, though based on an estimate of the humerus's complete length, the adult who once owned the arm bone stood at just 1 meter (3 feet and 3 inches) tall. Evidence of H. floresiensis was first discovered back in 2003 in Liang Bua cave, in the island's west. That skeleton was estimated to be about 6 centimeters (2.4 inches) taller than the recently described Mata Menge individual, based on the length of its femur. "This very rare specimen confirms our hypothesis that the ancestors of Homo floresiensis were extremely small in body size; however, it is now apparent from the tiny proportions of this limb bone that the early progenitors of the 'Hobbit' were even smaller than we had previously thought," Brumm says. Two notably tiny teeth one from an adult and one from a child were also found at the Mata Menge site during subsequent excavations in 2015 and 2016. The archeologists think their shape suggests H. floresiensis is descended from a Javan population of Homo erectus, challenging hypotheses suggesting the small human might have split away from a more ancestral African species. The teeth found at Mata Menge. (Kaifu et al., Nature Communications, 2024) "The evolutionary history of the Flores hominins is still largely unknown," says Brumm. He says the fossils suggest this species of human "did indeed begin when a group of the early Asian hominins known as Homo erectus somehow became isolated on this remote Indonesian island, perhaps one million years ago, and underwent a dramatic body size reduction over time". The Mata Menge humerus fragment (far left). Shown at the same scale next to it is the humerus of the H. floresiensis skeleton from Liang Bua. (Yousuke Kaifu) While modern inhabitants of the Indonesian highlands, the Rampasasa, are also small in size, a 2018 genetic study showed no evidence of a direct relationship to H. floresiensis. There may even be benefits favoring small-statured humans in this particular environment similar to those that benefit many island-bound animals of reduced size, leading to the tiny trait evolving multiple times. This research is published in Nature Communications. Related News Just when you thought Donald Trumps presidential campaign couldnt get any more ridiculous, he continues to lower the bar. On Monday, he made a bizarre appearance on Adin Ross livestream in an attempt to reach Gen Z voters. First, Trump walked out to 50 Cents Many Men in a room full of his supporters donning Make America Great Again regalia. Perhaps it was an ode to 50 Cent placing Trumps head on his infamous Get Rich or Die Tryin album cover last month after the assassination attempt on the former president. Trump also had incendiary words about his controversial appearance last week at the annual conference for the National Association of Black Journalists in Chicago. Ross joined Trump at his Mar-a-Lago home in Palm Beach, Fla. for the talk. Trump: I did the Black journalists a favor by going to NABJ. But they had a journalist who was nasty. She was a terrible person. She starts talking about racism pic.twitter.com/66ymCBH6Zu Kamala HQ (@KamalaHQ) August 5, 2024 Trump has a history of attempting to pander to Black voters by using hip hop culture. Weve seen it with high-profile endorsements from artists like Kanye West, Waka Flocka Flame and Azealia Banks. Most recently, MAGA recruited Amber Rose (Wests ex and the mother to Wiz Khalifas son) to speak at the Republican National Convention last month to convince Black folks to back Trump. His interview with Ross lasted for an hour and 20 minutes, during which Trump repeated anti-immigration comments and bashed Vice President Kamala Harris. The 23-year-old live streamer has gone viral in the past for hosting white nationalists like the former president on his show (i.e. Nick Fuentes, Andrew Tate). In addition, Trump attacked ABC News journalist Rachel Scott, one of three moderators at his NABJ panel last week. Trump stated that Scott should be fired for questioning him about his disturbing history of racist remarks and how he has treated Black political opponents and journalists in the past. This woman starts talking about racism, and I said, You didnt even say hello to me, and Im doing them a favor by doing this, Trump said to Ross. Im doing this out of respect to the Black community. The former president also told Ross that he didnt know who [Scott] was and hurled insults her way. She was nasty. Terrible person. She is horrible. She was very nasty, Trump stated. He also remarked that if I owned that network I would fire her so fast. At the end of the discussion, Ross gifted Trump a free Tesla cybertruck covered with a picture of Trump holding his fist up after the assassination attempt on his life life month at a Pennsylvania rally. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Not just age President Biden was not removed because of his age, but because of his deteriorating cognitive ability. There are countless 80 year olds I encounter regularly who are as sharp as a tack, with no apparent loss of cognitive ability. The left wants to focus it all on age because Trump is 77, but age wasnt the problem on the debate stage. It was Biden not knowing what he was saying. Thanks Thank you, George H. W. Bush, for giving us Justice Clarence Thomas. Thank you, George W. Bush, for giving us Justice Sam Alito and Chief Justice John Roberts. Whos old now? Maybe, its just me, but Donald Trump looks a lot older since President Biden dropped out of the race. Taxation Raise your hand if youve ever heard of an economy being taxed into prosperity. If progressive left Democrat Kamala Harris follows form, she will increase taxes and regulations that squeeze Americans. She has stated it many times and ways over many years. But youve never heard Donald Trump say hell raise taxes and increase regulations on Americans, nor tout government programs that rain money on socialist and globalist ideas. He cut taxes and regulations. Our economy was growing until COVID struck. Dont be an idiot and vote for more taxation by electing Harris. Military readiness The trillions of dollars being spent on climate control would be better spent on military preparedness. The Commission on the National Defense Strategy reports that our military is not correctly structured and our industrial base is grossly inadequate. Our current National Defense Strategy established in 2022 was before Russia invaded Ukraine and entered into a military partnership with China, Iran and North Korea. The threat is greater than at any time since World War II and is more complex than the Cold War, according to the commission. The commission reviews our strategy every four years. According to the commission, our Joint Forces are at a breaking point. Not addressing our national defense problem is a failed leadership problem not only for the Biden Administration, but the Department of Defense as well. Supreme Court So now our lame duck president has to reform the Supreme Court. Everyone knows this is a fools errand. Next, we will be introduced to statehood for Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. Then we will be bombarded with the idea that Republicans are racist if they dont go along. Enough Stop repeating Donald Trumps promises. He only makes declarations with no plan. How will he stop Russias war? If he can do it so easily, why doesnt he just do it and take the credit. Climate change With advocates of climate change, why eighteen SUVs for political persons and flying everywhere for brief political speeches. Could use Zooms like we did during lockdowns. Not a leader In his run up to the presidency in the past, Donald Trump always said he was going to replace Obamacare with something great. He never could do anything except repeat and repeat and no one even saw an outline. It was always just talk and no substance there. He hasnt learned or changed. Good job Regarding the BNews Monthly, a big thank you to the mayor, city council and especially the person who puts this together. Biloxi is a great place to live. Chaos Im retired USAF and use Keesler for many earned benefits, and I am continually disappointed in Keeslers lack of attention to morning traffic control at its gates. This mornings back up on Pass Road seems to be the norm. And despite bazillions spent on the new Division Street gate, it is no better. In my day, someone would have been called on the carpet for such a lack of attention to keeping traffic moving. Are you listening Keesler leadership? California facts California is the 5th largest economy in the world for the seventh consecutive year, with a nominal GDP of nearly $3.9 trillion in 2023 and a growth rate of 6.1% since the year prior, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. On a per capita basis, California is the second largest economy in the world Send your Sound Offs to soundoff@sunherald.com. (Bloomberg) -- South Africas ports ranked among the worlds worst are improving and state-owned operator Transnet SOC Ltd. will fix them within the next 12 to 14 months, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said. Most Read from Bloomberg The new multi-party administration that President Cyril Ramaphosa of the African National Congress set up after a May 29 election failed to produce an outright winner, already has a handle on power supply and is keeping a close eye on water-disruption risks, she said. These steps will help stability, Ntshavheni said in an interview with Bloomberg on Tuesday. As we get more control on our own domestic environment, the improvements will come. An energy crisis and the collapse of rail, ports and other infrastructure exacerbated by years of poor governance have hamstrung Africas most industrialized economy. Gross domestic product expanded by an average of less than 1% over the past decade less than needed to cut a 32.9% unemployment rate, one of the worlds highest. In June, a World Bank report ranked Cape Towns container port as the worst performer among 405 assessed globally, with three others in the nation among the bottom 15. Transnet which is under pressure to improve its performance as expotrs ranging from food to minerals have slowed due to the bottlenecks disputed the findings. President Cyril Ramaphosa has said his new government of national unity will prioritize economic growth by tackling structural reform, fixing badly run municipalities and ramping up infrastructure investment. The government will turn South Africa into a construction site, he said July 18 in his first policy speech since Mays election. To boost growth, ports should be privately run and more goods should be moved by rail rather than trucks, Business Leadership South Africa Chief Executive Officer Busisiwe Mavuso said last month. You can follow Bloombergs reporting on Africa on WhatsApp. Sign up here. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. This is part two of Operation Shakedown, a series about heavy-handed traffic enforcement tactics and property seizures in Spartanburg County, South Carolina. Click here to read part three. To the untrained eye, there was nothing unusual on October 5, 2022, near mile marker 77 on Interstate 85. But when two deputies from Greenville County, South Carolina, saw a blue Tesla come into view, they sprang into action. The vehicle was not speeding or driving recklessly. It had no broken lights or expired tags, nor had the car been reported stolen. What it did have was out-of-state plates on a rental car. This is enough to trigger a traffic stop during Operation Rolling Thunder, the annual five-day law enforcement blitz that turns a 20-mile stretch of freeway between Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia, into a gauntlet for travelers. No Drugs, No Problem Finding a pretext for pulling a driver over is easy. "If us officers stay behind you long enough, we can find a reason to pull you over," a Washington state officer explains in a viral video that got her suspended. The excuse to stop the Tesla in South Carolina was "driving in the left lane while not actively passing." The next goal, after stopping the Tesla driver, was to articulate probable cause to search it. This requires more than a traffic violation. Officers need a reasonable belief that a crime has occurred, so they claimed they could smell marijuana through the vehicle's open window. Once inside the car, they found no marijuana or narcotics of any type, nor did they find stolen merchandise, fake IDs, weapons, or anything else illegal. All the deputies found was an unspecified amount of cash, which is not a crime to carry. The driver and her passenger tried to explain, saying they were moving to Atlanta to start a hair business, and they would later fly back to Charlotte to pick up a car in the shop. If the deputies doubted this story, they could have continued investigating. But law enforcement agencies that want to keep cash do not need proof of wrongdoing. Highway Robbery A maneuver called civil forfeiture allows the government to take and permanently keep any property it seizesno arrest or conviction necessary. Agencies don't even have to identify a suspect. They are supposed to link seized property to criminal activity, but most of the time, they don't even have to prove anything by any standard in court. Unlike criminal cases, civil forfeiture requires property owners to pay for their own attorney, which many cannot afford. Most cannot navigate the system by themselves either. Because of these hurdles, people frequently cut their losses and walk away, allowing the government to win. This is the case 98.6 percent of the time at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which waits on standby to take possession of cash seized during Operation Rolling Thunder. Even if property owners make it to trial, they still face long odds. It's their word against that of law enforcement officers, who typically testify that property owners fit the drug courier profile for boilerplate reasons such as carrying cash in envelopes or vacuum-seal pouches. Almost anything can justify civil forfeiture. One Florence County deputy cited rubber bands as suspicious during a bus search in October 2022. Another officer faulted a driver for simultaneously talking too much and not enough. "While being vague about his trip, [the driver] would overexplain other things," the officer wrote. Lighting a cigarette during one stop was considered suspicious. So, too, was smelling like cologne, avoiding eye contact, being "preoccupied looking for the rental agreement," and having a cluttered vehicle that appeared to be "lived in." Participating agencies can keep up to 100 percent of the proceeds seized through civil forfeiture. If the federal government gets involved, through a process called "equitable sharing," their cut is typically at least 20 percent. The Tesla travelers did not even receive a traffic citation but still lost her property. The travelers were free to go after Homeland Security arrived, but not with their money. See Something, Seize Something This incentive to police for profit is huge. Participants from 11 agencies grabbed $968,611 during Operation Rolling Thunder in 2022. This comes to $194,000 per day or more than $8,000 per hour. This is the pattern during Operation Rolling Thunder. Officers took four bundles of currency from one driver after searching his vehicle and finding nothing but THC vape pens. The police let him go without charges after he signed a roadside abandonment form, relinquishing his claim to the money, which he said came from gambling. In two other cases, officers found cash on buses and seized the currency without arresting anyone. The police claim to be fighting the War on Drugs, but they grab cash wherever they can find it without any investigation into possible drug crimes. When the clock is ticking, the police policy is simple: If you see something, seize something. The post South Carolina Cops Target Out-of-State Drivers for Highway Robbery appeared first on Reason.com. The Red Cross is recruiting volunteers to help out with Tropical Storm Debby relief efforts. The storm that hit Florida as a Category 1 hurricane was downgraded to a tropical storm and was set to make its way up near the coastline of South Carolina and Georgia on Tuesday. The storm was expected to move slowly toward the South Carolina coast on Wednesday and Thursday before moving northward. It is expected to bring heavy rainfall, flooding, and strong wind. Mandy McMahon, Red Cross South Carolina spokesperson, said the organization is seeking volunteers throughout the state to assist with sheltering. Hundreds of volunteers nationwide have traveled to the Lowcountry to help, McMahon said. Most will be shelter volunteers assisting people or fleeing the storm, but other volunteers are deputized with health services and response teams. The Red Cross is asking people to donate and the proceeds will go toward helping with resources. More: Tracking Tropical Storm Debby: What to know about coastal South Carolina, Upstate forecasts According to McMahon, the Midlands and Low Country blood drives were canceled because of the storm. Anyone who can donate to a blood drive should sign up. The Red Cross is asking people to apply to become volunteers. In addition to being a blood donor, options include being a blood transportation specialist, a member of the action team, or a shelter volunteer. The Red Cross advises people to evacuate areas expected to receive major storm damage and flooding. For people who will be caught in the storm, the organization said to stay indoors, avoid beaches, and do not go outside into flood water. They advise using flashlights and avoiding candles. People driving during the storm should not go into flooded water. This article originally appeared on Greenville News: How to help South Carolina Red Cross with Tropical Storm Debby response Editors note: This article has been updated to correct the date of the incident. A professional skydiving instructor died and her student was seriously injured in a tandem skydiving accident in Southern Californias Inland Empire. Devrey LaRiccia Chase, 28, and her student had deployed their parachute and were descending toward the ground during a routine jump in Perris last Friday when they ran into a pair of dust devils, Devreys husband, Freddy Chase, told KTLA 5 News. She missed the first one, and when she maneuvered around it, she hit the second one, said Chase, who is also a skydiver and has hundreds of thousands of social media followers. At that point, she was about 25 to 30 feet in the air It sent her canopy in a downward spiral. Devrey LaRiccia Chase (Marcie LaRiccia) Devrey LaRiccia Chase (Marcie LaRiccia) Devrey LaRiccia Chase (Marcie LaRiccia) A dust devil is seen in central California. Undated photo (Getty Images). With no time left to react, Devrey and her student slammed into the ground. Both were rushed to a local hospital, where Devrey succumbed to her injuries. Dust devils are small, rotating columns of air that pick up dust and debris from the ground on hot days. They resemble tornadoes but are generally considered to be harmless, except in this circumstance. Freddy Chase says his wife was not only a passionate skydiver but also the main videographer for his social media videos, some of which have racked up more than a million views. She was beautiful in the sport and in her passion for skydiving, Freddy recalled. It was what she talked about every day. She loved doing what she did. Chase says Devrey moved to California from Maine roughly eight years ago, and now her family is raising money to bring her home. Tap here to donate. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. The Southlake Carroll school district has declared it is at an impasse with the Department of Education over findings the district violated students civil rights. School board president Cameron Bryan announced the impasse during a specially-called workshop Monday. He said said the Education Department is not acting in good faith in providing facts and evidence that outlines how the district violated students civil rights in four complaints of discrimination involving race and sexual orientation. Bryan said the school district asked for the evidence on three separate occasions. We have clearly made the Carroll ISD position known to the OCR and provided our evidence and complete analysis of such evidence. Its only fair for them to do the same for us, Bryan said. Bryan said that if the OCR doesnt provide the district with the necessary information to negotiate an agreement, then officials will wait for the letter of impending enforcement to have the information to move forward with fair and transparent negotiations. Bryan posted the letter to the OCR and the school boards statement on his Facebook page. The letter stated that a recent federal court ruling enjoins the Education Department from taking action against the Carroll school district. The letter referred to a recent ruling from U.S. district judge Reed OConnor involving the Carroll school districts lawsuit against the Biden administration over expanded Title IX protections. The letter stated that the district reviewed the Education Departments database and looked at 10 random cases and findings. The district found that in at least six of the cases, the OCR found insufficient evidence, made no finding or made negative findings. The letter stated that the school districts agreed to voluntary resolutions, and the OCR made the districts abide by them. From Carroll ISDs perspective, the District is being forced to negotiate in the dark without the benefit of OCRs findings, which are necessary to make decisions and work towards a resolution, according to the letter. When asked about the letter from the Carroll school district, an Education Department spokesperson said the cases are not being investigated under the 2024 Title IX regulations. The Office of Civil Rights is following procedures in its case manual, according to the spokesman. The school board issued a separate statement describing the four complaints and how they were resolved. The complaints, from late 2020 and early 2021, described antisemitic slurs, homophobic and racial slurs. The statement said students were disciplined and the district took measures, including reviewing videos of incidents and meeting with a rabbi and the education director of the Anti-Defamation League. But Angela Jones, who filed two complaints on behalf of her son, accused the district of lying and combining two of her complaints in to one. She complained after her son was called a racial slur. The letter doesnt change anything. Its just a distraction. The district is clearly trying to avoid its role, she told the Star-Telegram on Tuesday. Jones added that she made multiple complaints, and the district doesnt have a system to track them. The district is showing us who they really are. This is not the district I moved here for. How special forces travelers are making and then breaking Chinese tourism destinations Diners huddling around barbecue grills used to be a familiar sight in the streets of Zibo. The previously nondescript city in the eastern Chinese province of Shandong became one of Chinas hottest spots for domestic tourism last year thanks to its affordable and juicy skewered meat. But by the end of 2023, the craze had largely subsided, with images on social media showing empty barbecue shops. One neon light sign read: I know youll be back, Zibo. We are waiting for you. Zibo, just three hours by train from the capital of Beijing, is one of a number of Chinese cities that have benefited from a flood of local tourists gravitating towards cheap holiday destinations as Chinas economy slows. Theyre known as special forces travelers because, like soldiers, they move from one checkpoint to another under incredibly tight schedules, often over weekends or short holidays. These travelers provide an economic lifeline to struggling cities as China grapples with slumping domestic consumption and waits for a recovery in foreign tourist numbers. China recorded 35.5 million visits from foreign nationals in 2023, just 36% of the 97.7 million who came in 2019, according to the National Immigration Administration. For the first half of this year, 29.22 million foreign nationals entered and exited, according to the latest figures. But the flash-mob-style approach of special forces travelers switching from one community to the next has called into question whether that type of domestic tourism is sustainable in the long term. Weekend trippers Chinese tourists used to splurge on luxury brands and high-end experiences overseas. But an uncertain future plagued by a property crisis, declining foreign investment and a grim employment outlook made travelers think twice about expensive trips abroad. Instead, some tourists have turned to budget locations for the past year, particularly those within easy commutes from major cities. University graduate Cici Li Yuetong, 23, counts herself as one of them. Special forces-style travel on weekends is very popular now, especially among college students, she said. Mostly young, they are always on the lookout for cheap domestic trips, with the goal of spending as little as possible to visit as many places as they can. Li said she travels to places recommended on the Chinese popular social media platform Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book), an app much like Instagram and TikTok, where millions of Chinese people share and read travel tips. Travelers tend to look for a place within three hours of major cities by speed rail and somewhere with local specialties, like Zibos barbecue grills. These places have cheaper prices for both dining and hangouts, and the cost of going to these cities for food is also within the affordable range of most people, so naturally there is an impulse and confidence to go for a majority of the public, Li said. Pan Wenbo, also from Beijing, said his favorite spots included Xian, home of the Terracotta Warriors, and Datong, a northern Chinese city known for ancient Buddhist architecture - both offering more affordable accommodation and food. He said this style of travel has gained traction also because he and his colleagues get limited holidays. Weekends are a good choice for travel, he said. The transportation is convenient, the time is short, and there are cities worth exploring. Why not? Beware the short-term boom These days, local tourists have been flocking to Tianshui, in the northwestern province of Gansu, one of Chinas poorest areas. The city shot to fame earlier this year because of its malatang - spicy soup - made with a dried pepper grown in the region. A staff member cooks Tianshui Spicy Hot Pot on March 14, 2024 in Tianshui City, Gansu Province of China. - Jiumei Danzeng/China News Service/VCG/Getty Images Money poured in across the country as investors capitalized on the fad by opening Tianshui-syle restaurants nationwide. However some restaurants have started closing as interest in the delicacy wanes, according to state-affiliated press. The topic #TianshuiMalatangisstillclosingdowninbatches has been searched by more than 68 million people on Chinese social media site Weibo since the start of this month. Zibo, too, is feeling the hangover from its mini tourism boom. A Zibo shop owner who identified herself as Miss Yang told CNN that the number of tourists visiting during the Labor Day holiday in May had noticeably dwindled from earlier peaks, with some shops forced to shut. The closing ones are the newly-opened ones. We, as the old ones, stayed and therere many people coming to us, said Yang. Tourism professor Mimi Li from Hong Kong Polytechnic University said a sudden influx of tourists can bring economic benefits to smaller destinations, just like mass events such as the Olympics or World Expo boost investment in larger cities. However, she said that in many cities its only a one-time thing, as there is only so much appetite for barbecues or certain spicy dishes. Li said authorities should educate small business owners about the risks of irrational investment and use the windfall to reinvent themselves. The government should get prepared that the level of tourism will be back to normal. Its a good opportunity to diversify their tourism products and offerings, she said. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Marion County Record publisher and editor Eric Meyer answers questions during a July 25, 2024, interview in his newsroom office. (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector) This story originally appeared on Kansas Reflector. TOPEKA, Kansas Special prosecutors plan to charge former Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody with a low-level felony for his actions following the raid he led last year on the Marion County Record and the homes of the newspaper publisher and a councilwoman. But the special prosecutors also concluded that police despite their misunderstanding of evidence, a rushed investigation, and faulty and unlawful search warrants didnt commit any crimes by investigating a baseless suspicion of identity theft or carrying out the raid. Riley County Attorney Barry Wilkerson and Sedgwick County District Attorney Marc Bennett released their conclusions in a 124-page report on Monday. There is no evidence that Marion law enforcement agents recognized the inadequacy of the investigation or intentionally or knowingly misled either other law enforcement agents or the court, the prosecutors said. The evidence strongly suggests they genuinely believed they were investigating criminal acts. The report also clears Marion County Record reporter Phyllis Zorn and editor Eric Meyer of wrongdoing. Their report makes it clear that they arrived at this conclusion mere days after the raid, Meyer said. Yet they left us swinging in the wind. Thats disappointing, to say the least. We are pleased that they believe, as we long have, that Gideon Cody violated state law. Unfortunately, others involved in case those who didnt flee the state seem to have escaped similar scrutiny. When Cody led the raid on Aug. 11, 2023, he violated constitutional protections, upended lives, spawned five federal lawsuits, and cast a shadow over the east-central town of about 2,000. The prosecutors report, which based on findings from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and Colorado Bureau of Investigation, details the small-town drama that precipitated Codys investigation, as well as his attempt to leverage the KBI for support before and after the raids. KBI special agent in charge Bethanie Popejoy told investigators that Cody called her two days after the raid while she was in church service. She stepped outside to take the call. She said Cody told her: This is a mess. I really wish you guys would take this over. And I said, Well, its a little f***in late for that now, Popejoy said. Although KBI agents had agreed to join Cody in the investigation before the raid, they had not yet reviewed evidence at the time of the raid. Popejoy said when she first read the search warrants several days after the raid, she was shocked, angry, disappointed, (in) disbelief. Cody, faced with intense national scrutiny, asked the KBI to issue a public statement defending his character. Popejoy declined. He was just a rabid squirrel in a cage and just off doing his own thing, and then, Well, I really feel like you guys are abandoning me, she said. A woman sitting down and gesturing The report closely analyzes restaurateur Kari Newells drunk driving record, which became a catalyst for the raid. Newells estranged husband, who told investigators he was tired of paying for tags and insurance on her car while going through divorce proceedings, sent a copy of Newells driving record to friend Pam Maag, who in turn sent the record to reporter Phyllis Zorn and Councilwoman Ruth Herbel. Maag believed Newells DUI and suspended license would be relevant to Newells request for a liquor license. Zorn called the Kansas Department of Revenue to verify the driving record and was given instructions on how to use the agencys online database to look up the record, which she did. Meyer then notified police they had received and verified the driving record. Cody, a former Kansas City, Missouri, detective who was not yet certified as a law enforcement officer in Kansas, asked Officer Zach Hudlin to help him investigate because Cody didnt 100% know Kansas law, Hudlin told the CBI. The report includes a transcript of a conversation between Hudlin and a KDOR representative about the agencys online database. Based on that call, Hudlin erroneously assumed Zorn had violated numerous crimes by looking up the public record. It is difficult to ascertain whether Officer Hudlins conclusions were the product of confirmation bias, a hurried investigation or simply a misunderstanding of what the KDOR representative was trying to explain, the special prosecutors wrote. Cody emailed search warrant applications to County Attorney Joel Ensey and pressured the prosecutor to act quickly, Ensey told investigators. Ensey said he was too busy preparing for other cases to read the warrants and asked an office manager to take them to the judge. Ensey recalled telling his assistant: I dont know why the f*** were in such a f****** hurry for this thing. When questioned by investigators, Cody couldnt remember if he signed the search warrants in front of Magistrate Judge Laura Viar, but he recalled answering a few questions for her. Viar said Cody had given her the impression that the KBI supported the search warrants. After the raid, Cody texted Ensey to say the KBI was 100% behind me and we did things exactly as it should have been done. Popejoy said Cody had to live in fantasy land to get that picture. I probably called him and said, Whats going on? But at no point did I say, Everything you did is OK. she said. Cody resigned in October after KSHB-TV reported he had instructed Newell to delete text messages between them. Hudlin is now the acting police chief. Special prosecutors said Codys actions regarding text messages will provide the basis for a criminal charge of obstructing the judicial process, a low-level felony. With so many law enforcement officers aligned against me, there were times I worried, but I have hope that justice would be done, Zorn said in a phone interview after the report was released. Emily Bradbury, executive director of the Kansas Press Association, said she welcomed the conclusion that Marion County Record journalists acted lawfully and that Cody will face criminal charges. This development is a crucial step towards accountability and justice, Bradbury said. The misuse of power to intimidate or silence journalists is a grave threat to our democracy, and those responsible must be held to account. The special prosecutors rejected the theory that Cody and others carried out the raid in retaliation against the newspaper and political adversary, even though there was no reason to believe anybody had committed a crime, and no basis for searching the homes of Meyer and Herbel. The most plausible explanation, as evidenced by Chief Codys repeated statements in contemporaneous emails, reports and statements to others, is that he and the officers working with them genuinely reached the conclusion that they had uncovered a crime, the prosecutors wrote. Kansas Reflector is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Kansas Reflector maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Sherman Smith for questions: info@kansasreflector.com. Follow Kansas Reflector on Facebook and X. Marion County Record publisher and editor Eric Meyer answers questions during a July 25, 2024, interview in his newsroom office. (Photo by Grace Hills / Kansas Reflector) TOPEKA Special prosecutors plan to charge former Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody with a low-level felony for his actions following the raid he led last year on the Marion County Record and the homes of the newspaper publisher and a councilwoman. But the special prosecutors also concluded that police despite their misunderstanding of evidence, a rushed investigation, and faulty and unlawful search warrants didnt commit any crimes by investigating a baseless suspicion of identity theft or carrying out the raid. Riley County Attorney Barry Wilkerson and Sedgwick County District Attorney Marc Bennett released their conclusions in a 124-page report on Monday. There is no evidence that Marion law enforcement agents recognized the inadequacy of the investigation or intentionally or knowingly misled either other law enforcement agents or the court, the prosecutors said. The evidence strongly suggests they genuinely believed they were investigating criminal acts. The report also clears Marion County Record reporter Phyllis Zorn and editor Eric Meyer of wrongdoing. Their report makes it clear that they arrived at this conclusion mere days after the raid, Meyer said. Yet they left us swinging in the wind. Thats disappointing, to say the least. We are pleased that they believe, as we long have, that Gideon Cody violated state law. Unfortunately, others involved in case those who didnt flee the state seem to have escaped similar scrutiny. When Cody led the raid on Aug. 11, 2023, he violated constitutional protections, upended lives, spawned five federal lawsuits, and cast a shadow over the east-central town of about 2,000. The prosecutors report, which based on findings from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and Colorado Bureau of Investigation, details the small-town drama that precipitated Codys investigation, as well as his attempt to leverage the KBI for support before and after the raids. KBI special agent in charge Bethanie Popejoy told investigators that Cody called her two days after the raid while she was in church service. She stepped outside to take the call. She said Cody told her: This is a mess. I really wish you guys would take this over. And I said, Well, its a little f***in late for that now, Popejoy said. Although KBI agents had agreed to join Cody in the investigation before the raid, they had not yet reviewed evidence at the time of the raid. Popejoy said when she first read the search warrants several days after the raid, she was shocked, angry, disappointed, (in) disbelief. Cody, faced with intense national scrutiny, asked the KBI to issue a public statement defending his character. Popejoy declined. He was just a rabid squirrel in a cage and just off doing his own thing, and then, Well, I really feel like you guys are abandoning me, she said. The report closely analyzes restaurateur Kari Newells drunk driving record, which became a catalyst for the raid. Newells estranged husband, who told investigators he was tired of paying for tags and insurance on her car while going through divorce proceedings, sent a copy of Newells driving record to friend Pam Maag, who in turn sent the record to reporter Phyllis Zorn and Councilwoman Ruth Herbel. Maag believed Newells DUI and suspended license would be relevant to Newells request for a liquor license. Zorn called the Kansas Department of Revenue to verify the driving record and was given instructions on how to use the agencys online database to look up the record, which she did. Meyer then notified police they had received and verified the driving record. Cody, a former Kansas City, Missouri, detective who was not yet certified as a law enforcement officer in Kansas, asked Officer Zach Hudlin to help him investigate because Cody didnt 100% know Kansas law, Hudlin told the CBI. The report includes a transcript of a conversation between Hudlin and a KDOR representative about the agencys online database. Based on that call, Hudlin erroneously assumed Zorn had violated numerous crimes by looking up the public record. It is difficult to ascertain whether Officer Hudlins conclusions were the product of confirmation bias, a hurried investigation or simply a misunderstanding of what the KDOR representative was trying to explain, the special prosecutors wrote. Cody emailed search warrant applications to County Attorney Joel Ensey and pressured the prosecutor to act quickly, Ensey told investigators. Ensey said he was too busy preparing for other cases to read the warrants and asked an office manager to take them to the judge. Ensey recalled telling his assistant: I dont know why the f*** were in such a f****** hurry for this thing. When questioned by investigators, Cody couldnt remember if he signed the search warrants in front of Magistrate Judge Laura Viar, but he recalled answering a few questions for her. Viar said Cody had given her the impression that the KBI supported the search warrants. After the raid, Cody texted Ensey to say the KBI was 100% behind me and we did things exactly as it should have been done. Popejoy said Cody had to live in fantasy land to get that picture. I probably called him and said, Whats going on? But at no point did I say, Everything you did is OK. she said. Cody resigned in October after KSHB-TV reported he had instructed Newell to delete text messages between them. Hudlin is now the acting police chief. Special prosecutors said Codys actions regarding text messages will provide the basis for a criminal charge of obstructing the judicial process, a low-level felony. With so many law enforcement officers aligned against me, there were times I worried, but I have hope that justice would be done, Zorn said in a phone interview after the report was released. Emily Bradbury, executive director of the Kansas Press Association, said she welcomed the conclusion that Marion County Record journalists acted lawfully and that Cody will face criminal charges. This development is a crucial step towards accountability and justice, Bradbury said. The misuse of power to intimidate or silence journalists is a grave threat to our democracy, and those responsible must be held to account. The special prosecutors rejected the theory that Cody and others carried out the raid in retaliation against the newspaper and political adversary, even though there was no reason to believe anybody had committed a crime, and no basis for searching the homes of Meyer and Herbel. The most plausible explanation, as evidenced by Chief Codys repeated statements in contemporaneous emails, reports and statements to others, is that he and the officers working with them genuinely reached the conclusion that they had uncovered a crime, the prosecutors wrote. Complaints about poor management and subpar conditions at a subsidized housing building led to formal action Monday, with Springfield City Council asking the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to investigate the management company behind Jenny Lind Hall. Jenny Lind Hall, at 711 S. Jefferson Ave., is HUD-subsidized housing catering to those 62 and older or those with disabilities. For months, council has heard from residents and local advocates who have reported broken elevators and other health and safety concerns in the apartments. Jenny Lind Hall at 711 S. Jefferson Ave. provides affordable housing for residents 62 and older and those with disabilities. The property is managed by Ohio-based Millennia Housing Management. According to online reports maintained by the city, inspectors first found the property to be in violation of City Code in early February, when an on-site manager said a company had been contacted about repairing one of the elevators, while the other had been out of service for three years. For months as city staff continued to reinspect the building, the elevators remained out of commission. A reinspection Aug. 1 indicated that the parts for the elevator were finally acquired and the elevator appeared to be working. Some of the reports indicate residents were moved to hotels while elevators were not working. But an entry filed Monday indicates that another issue with the generator was found when the elevator was inspected, prolonging the lack of accessibility. Monday night's resolution, proposed by Councilman Brendon Jenson with co-sponsors Abe McGull and Heather Hardinger, expresses support for Jenny Lind residents and encourages HUD to investigate Millennia Management for compliance with federal law. "Among other violations, the City is concerned that Millennia Management has not complied with the Uniform Relocation Act," the resolution, which passed unanimously, reads. The act in part ensures displaced persons from subsidized housing are treated fairly and do not suffer disproportionate injuries. Hardinger noted that she and Jenson were able to meet with Millennia representatives who them assured issues would be taken care of but that ultimately did not come to fruition. "We do continue to attempt to hold this property owner accountable for their actions," she said at Monday's meeting. More: City Council votes not to add housing as specific recipient of proposed 3/4-cent sales tax Brian Handshy, HUD Region 7 public affairs officer, confirmed that since January 2023, HUD has received nine reports about tenant issues at Jenny Lind Hall, with two of those being since this February. He noted that these only include those reported to HUD by the Missouri Housing Development Commission, the entity responsible for contracting federal subsidy to owners of Jenny Lind. The affordable housing building is under Millennia Housing Management based in Cleveland, Ohio, which operates more than 280 developments in 26 states, according to its website. In March, HUD barred the company from any future business with the federal government for five years for "financial mismanagement" as well as lack of maintenance, according to reporting by Cleveland.com. Marta Mieze covers local government at the News-Leader. Have feedback, tips or story ideas? Contact her at mmieze@news-leader.com. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Jenny Lind Hall management scolded by Springfield council SPRINGFIELD, Mo. Drury University has awarded grants to three Springfield educators to help them further their education. According to a release from Drury, two teachers from Pipkin Middle School and one from Bingham Elementary School have been awarded the grant, which offers reduced tuition to teachers working in Title I schools who are working toward their Master in Education (M.Ed.) degree. The grant provides a 50% reduction in tuition for up to 12 credit hours per year for three years. Eligible applicants must be fully admitted to Drurys M.Ed. program, in good standing and employed full-time at a Title I school. Recipients of the grant are expected to remain at the Title I school for two years after completing their degree. Cause of death released for 8-year-old Carl Junction girl It is exciting to see Drury alum and local educators be awarded this grant that aligns so well ith the vision of the School of Education and Child Development at Drury, said Dr. Natalie Precise, Dean of the School of Education and Child Development. Drury also offers the Drury Alternative Track in Special Education (DATSE) Rural Schools Scholarship to support rural Missouri schools in staffing special education classrooms. The online masters program allows candidates to continue working in their current positions while completing the program. Once finished, candidates receive a Masters in Education and initial certification in Mild/Moderate Cross-Categorical K-12 Special Education. A $1,500 scholarship is available for the first academic year, applied in two increments, to newly admitted students who meet specific criteria and are employed as paraprofessionals in rural Missouri districts. Applications for both programs are due on July 1 each year, with funds and scholarships awarded on a first-come, first serve basis. For more information on the programs, visit Drurys website or contact Precise at 417-873-7874 or nprecise@drury.edu. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. LANCASTER, Pa. (WHTM) Police are investigating a Monday stabbing in Lancaster that sent one person to the hospital, a news release says. A man was found with a stab wound to his abdomen area after officers responded to the 800 block of N. Prince Street just after 4 p.m., police said. He was taken to the hospital where he is being treated for his non-life-threatening injuries. Lancaster County teenager dies after being hit by vehicle Police were told by the man that the stabbing happened in an alleyway in the northeast part of the city, but officers cant find the crime scene, the release says. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now WHTM Morning Weather Police said they are investigating and are asking anyone with information to contact them at 717-735-3300. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. Tar-covered vegetation collects on containment boom in Bayou Lafourche on Aug. 2, 2024, from an oil spill at the Crescent Midstream Crude Oil Facility six days ago. (Photo credit: Greg LaRose/Louisiana Illuminator) Two recent accidents in the energy sector an oil spill in Louisiana and a wind turbine failure in New England have generated starkly different responses from the impacted communities and government agencies that regulate the industries. The distinctions, so far, are separated by geography, culture and wealth, among other factors. In Louisiana, the term disaster can be heard relatively frequently, but it is generally not used lightly. The term is often reserved for a hurricane that destroys part of the state or an environmental calamity such as the 2010 BP oil spill. For the most part, public officials and residents in Louisiana have not used disaster to describe the July 27 oil spill of 34,000 gallons, with a large portion flowing into Bayou Lafourche. Cleaning crews have worked to contain the spread of crude petroleum into a vital ecosystem that serves as the populations main source of drinking water. Contrast that to the property owners on the Massachusetts islands of Marthas Vineyard and Nantucket who on July 13 experienced what many of them have called the worst energy industry disaster theyve ever seen. A single blade from a turbine at Vineyard Winds offshore wind farm broke off and fell into the ocean. The Vineyard Wind incident did not involve a release of any chemicals or toxins, did not injure any humans or animals and has had no apparent impact on the local ecosystem. By comparison, the oil spill from the Crescent Midstream facility in Raceland put an 8-mile-long black oil slick on the surface of the bayou, contaminated miles of shoreline vegetation, and, according to company spokesman Mike Smith, has so far killed 21 animals. About a week after the wind turbine broke, federal regulators ordered the company to suspend all operations and shut down all its turbines indefinitely while they investigated the incident. Soon after the oil spill, Crescent Midstream had to turn off two pipelines at the request of federal regulators, though no official orders have been issued. On Friday, Smith said the company expects one will be turned back on in the coming days. While mitigation crews continue the crude cleanup and wildlife teams pull oiled animals from the bayou, Crescent has been free to continue running its many other pipelines and facilities along the coast. Some environmental experts and advocates for affordable energy see the juxtaposed incidents as indicative of an uneven playing field for the renewable energy industry. Oil and gas industry failures tend to be pretty mundane, but anytime something goes wrong with renewable energy, people just become incensed, the Alliance for Affordable Energys Jackson Voss said in a phone interview. Oil and gas is either not treated with that same level of concern or is treated as if its overblown. Complaints of the rich The biggest threat to the communities of Nantucket and Marthas Vineyard has been pieces of styrofoam and fiberglass from the 300-foot blade washing up onto their beaches. This has sparked protests from property owners, many of whom dont live there year-round but have been opposed to the project since the state first approved it in 2019. Last week, a 10-year old was selling customized T-shirts on the docks of Nantucket Harbor that stated Vineyard Wind is ISIS, according to a social media post by the Nantucket Current. Other opponents are calling for a complete end to the wind energy industry in the United States. The islands have some of the most expensive property in the country. The median listing price for homes in Marthas Vineyard is $2.2 million. In Nantucket, it is $4.8 million, according to Realtor.com. On both islands, the majority of the residential properties are vacation homes. The year-round population of about 20,000 includes the residents who arent rich property owners and work in farming, the service industry and maintaining the infrastructure. The population can swell to over 200,000 during the summer months as tourists converge and the mega-rich fly in to enjoy their beach houses. When news of the turbine blades failure spread across the islands, government agencies mounted a swift response. Local officials held emergency town hall meetings in which they pressed company executives for explanations and turned over the floor to angry property owners who berated the executives, threatened litigation and accused them of various evils, according to the Vineyard Gazette. The Nantucket Police Department immediately closed the entire south shore of the island and told residents to wear shoes when outside and keep their pets indoors. The beaches were reopened a few days later. The U.S. Coast Guard cordoned off a 500-meter exclusion zone surrounding the broken turbine. Vineyard Wind deployed emergency response teams that included boats to remove debris from the water. Employees and contractors were placed on beach patrols to collect any debris from the shore. The company also mobilized a team of shorebird monitors to conduct visual monitoring for any state-listed and protected avian species. The shorebird monitors were also tasked with escorting any vehicle involved in debris removal within the vicinity of known nesting areas. The Town of Nantucket Select Board issued a statement, saying it was alarmed by the catastrophe that befell the island. The board said its committed to holding Vineyard Wind and General Electric accountable and to collecting full restitution for the costs of all damages and recovery efforts. The board further demanded that the companies implement comprehensive measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. Photos of styrofoam and fiberglass found by beachgoers fueled days of social media outrage aimed at the company and at liberal politicians, including Vice President and Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris. Former President Donald Trump had delayed federal approval of the project when he was in office, so its final clearance came under President Joe Biden in March 2021. Within about a week of the accident, most of the debris had been removed from the beaches, though Vineyard Wind crews were still patrolling for any small pieces that were overlooked. The Nantucket Current posted a photo on X that showed a few handfuls of beachgoers lounging under the sun while four workers in long pants and reflective vests patrolled the pristine sand behind them for any missed debris. The photo drew dozens of reposts and comments suggesting the workers presence was diminishing the areas value. Someone responded with a photo of his own that showed a worker driving a utility vehicle along a different beach. Another user replied with a single word: Ruined. BREAKING: on this mornings investor call, GE Vernova finally addresses the Vineyard Wind turbine blade failure and says it was due to a manufacturing deviation that is under investigation. pic.twitter.com/3XVYwvDidy Nantucket Current (@ACKCurrent) July 24, 2024 The wind turbine blade failed because of a manufacturing deviation that wasnt caught during quality control inspections, according to manufacturer GE Vernova. The manufacturer told the Vineyard Gazette that it has begun reinspecting all the blades that came from that same factory in Canada where the defective one was made. A separate environmental accident on Aug. 3 caused a brief disruption to the anti-wind backlash among Nantucket social media feeds. On Saturday, the Nantucket Current posted a photo on X of a petrochemical slick on the surface of the water and a statement from Nantucket Harbormaster Sheila Lucey who reported a small diesel spill of about 2 gallons from a boat. The boat owner was issued a fine. No one attempted to clean up the fuel, and the post received little attention as news coverage on the island shifted to a much larger story about a seagull stealing the Nantucket airport managers wallet. The response in Lafourche Compared with the wind blade failure in Massachusetts, the oil spill in Louisiana has drawn a more tempered response from government regulators, local officials and residents despite its significantly greater damage to the ecosystem. If a wind turbine breaks down, theres a small possibility someone gets hurt but when an oil and gas spill happens, its a real potential public health hazard, Voss said. Often, its many times more expensive to address and requires years of mitigation. Because Bayou Lafourche is the primary source of drinking water for a four-parish area, officials issued a temporary advisory encouraging residents to conserve water but later lifted it, stressing all along that the water was always safe to consume. Crews surrounded the drinking water intake in Lockport with containment booms to keep any oil out, and water quality tests have been performed hourly as is standard practice. The impacted section of the bayou remains closed to boat traffic, and mitigation crews continue to skim oil from the water and banks. Wildlife rescue teams have managed to pull some live oil-covered animals from the water, including one alligator and two mallard ducks. Other dead or injured animals, included crawfish, turtles, ducks, salamanders and fish, though the Louisiana Department of Fish and Wildlife has not blamed the fish kill on the oil. The state hasnt issued any advisories on consuming seafood from Bayou Lafourche. Although the section of bayou where the spill occurred is more of a transportation channel than a fishing spot, it still attracts some recreational anglers. People were seen fishing the bayou in Lockport while cleanup crews were taking bags of oil-soaked vegetation to a nearby boat launch for disposal. Aside from the bayous closure, Lafourche Parish and its residents have, for the most part, carried on with little fuss or concern about the mishap. The Lafourche Parish Council has not called for any emergency meetings, and area residents have not organized protests. And no one in the parish, where home prices list at a median of $239,000, is selling merchandise that likens Crescent Midstream to a terrorist organization. The July 27 incident marks the largest of 48 other oil spills and oil accidents in the parishes of Lafourche and Jefferson since 2010, according to Healthy Gulf Community Science Director Scott Eustis. Its also the third oil spill in Crescents seven-year history operating the Bonefish system of pipelines in the Lafourche-Barataria area. The pipeline sustained one other major leak in 2012, though that accident was attributed to Exxon, which sold the infrastructure in 2017. In researching the accidents documented for the pipeline, Eustis said he found 70 patches made to the pipeline since it was built in 1963. We question how long these facilities should be allowed to operate like this, without being re-engineered for our climate, he said. We have to rebuild our houses often, but why is an oil company allowed to operate a 1963 facility without some substantial upgrades during the 2017 sale? At what point do we decommission this pipeline unless it is rebuilt? The oil spill also comes just a few months after Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality Secretary Aurelia Giacometto, a former Trump administration official, announced her intent to relax environmental permitting standards in the state. Different standards Voss said many people in Louisiana have become used to oil spills and other petrochemical accidents. At the same time, people tend to hold the renewable energy industry to impossible standards. Its not enough for wind and solar to be significantly cheaper sources of electricity. Everything else about renewables needs to be perfect, and there can be no accidents or mistakes, Voss said. Louisiana Oil and Gas Association President Mike Moncla said he disagrees with the notion that the wind industry is held to higher standards than the oil industry. First of all, let me say that LOGA is for all kinds of energy oil, gas, wind, solar we support all of it, and all are vital in driving Louisianas economy forward, Moncla said in an emailed statement. That being said, the idea that the wind industry is more heavily scrutinized than oil and gas is simply laughable. The media lives to tear down the oil and gas industry. Moncla cited about a dozen Louisiana news outlets that have covered the Crescent Midstream oil spill, and he challenged any detractors to cite one that has ever reported anything negative about the wind industry. The oil spill has been widely covered by local news outlets, though the incident has received very little national coverage. The Vineyard Wind blade failure has received significant national coverage, but much of that is attributed to the projects status as the first offshore wind farm in the country. National outlets were already familiar with the project and had covered it as it was being built. The lack of negative news coverage about wind energy in Louisiana tracks with the total lack of wind energy in the state. Louisiana has no industrial wind turbines, so local news outlets have little reason to devote coverage to that sector. I could go on for days, citing countless examples of negative media coverage towards oil and gas, Moncla said. To imply otherwise just shows a complete lack of awareness. Its actually an irony of biblical proportions when you consider that the entire existence and push for wind energy is due to the complaint that the oil and gas industry is causing climate change. In cases of natural and environmental disasters, an aggressive press coverage often fills in for an inadequate response by officials and regulators, Voss said. News coverage tends to be a little more even-handed about things than the political response, Voss said. In general, the news does a good job in alerting the public about the incident, and the oil and gas industry does a good job of downplaying it. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Starmer: Rioters will feel the full force of the law Police officers detain far-Right protesters after they tried to cross to the side of the opposing group in Plymouth - Anadolu Rioters will face the full force of the law, Sir Keir Starmer has vowed ahead of a further expected wave of riots across the UK. The Prime Minister, speaking after an emergency Cobra meeting at Downing Street, said rioters should expect substantive sentences on conviction. More than 400 people have been arrested following the violent unrest in nearly two dozen cities and towns in England, Wales and Northern Ireland over the past six days. Sir Keir promised communities will be safe and that the criminal justice system has shown a robust and swift response in the face of the unrest. Police forces are bracing themselves for up to 30 potential gatherings of rioters on Wednesday. A list of solicitors firms and advice agencies has been shared in chat groups as possible targets for gatherings, with the message inviting would be rioters to mask up if they attend. The Law Society of England and Wales described such gatherings as adirect assault on our democratic values and urged the Government to treat such threats against the legal profession with the utmost seriousness. A teenager who smashed police cars during disorder in Bolton is believed to have become the first person to be jailed over the riots. James Nelson, 18, pleaded guilty on Tuesday to causing criminal damage on Sunday, Greater Manchester Police said. He was sentenced to two months imprisonment at Manchester magistrates court. Wes Streeting the Health Secretary, said those who are racist to NHS staff in health settings can and should be turned away from care. He Government will not tolerate the continuation of violence and condemned the mindless thuggery seen on streets across Britain. 10:12 PM BST Round up of todays events Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said those convicted of rioting can substantive sentencing by the end of this week. Immigration advice staff and solicitors have said they are fearful about going to work amid one of the worst periods of violent disorder of the last decade. An extra 2,200 specialist riot officers are being put on standby ahead of warnings that far Right agitators are planning to target more than 30 immigration centres across Britain. The Metropolitan Police has vowed to protect London from one of the worst spates of violent disorder in the last decade, as more protests are due to take place on Wednesday. Elon Musk has branded the Prime Minister two-tier Keir in the latest attack by the billionaire on how widespread riots are being policed across the UK. 09:58 PM BST Young boy assaulted by group of teenagers treated as hate crime An assault on a young boy in Belfast is being investigated as a hate crime by police. Officers said a large group of young people threw eggs at a shop on the Falls Road at 6.10pm on Tuesday. They said a young boy was also assaulted by up to 10 youths and sustained a minor facial injury. People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll, who attended the scene, said the community was disgusted by the incident. He said west Belfast locals defended a business that came under attack by a group of young people. It is deeply concerning to see young people swept up in such behaviour, especially when we have seen such sickening and widespread attacks on minorities in recent days, he said. Reports that a number of youths have attacked the Middle East Market on the Falls Road in west Belfast. A number of community activists and a councillor are now onsite with the youths dispersed. @BelTel pic.twitter.com/swPY1NcZwq Kevin Scott (@Kscott_94) August 6, 2024 09:42 PM BST Police chief vows strongest possible action against potential rioters A Police chief in Avon and Somerset has vowed to take the strongest possible action against those taking part in planned unrest on Wednesday. Deputy Chief Constable Jon Reilly said he was aware of online posts calling people to gather in Bristol and vowed to maintain order and keep people safe. In a statement issued by Avon and Somerset Police, Mr Reilly said: The incidents of disorder weve seen take place across the country recently, including in Bristol on Saturday, are completely unacceptable. These are not legitimate protests and we will not tolerate any behaviour which attempts to divide our communities. Were aware of posts circulating online calling for people to gather in Bristol tomorrow night and I want to reassure you well have significant resources in place to maintain order and keep people safe. 09:24 PM BST Lord Chancellor issues warning to protesters planning to intimidate immigration lawyers The Lord Chancellor has warned people who incite mobs will feel the full force of the law, amid concerns over the safety of legal professionals. It comes as a number of events were planned outside immigration advice centres and solicitors offices across the country on Wednesday. Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: Every day, across the country, solicitors uphold the rule of law. Inciting mobs to attack their offices, or threatening them in any way, is unacceptable. Those found doing so will face the full force of the law.They will join the hundreds of others who have already been arrested by police within the last week. 08:57 PM BST Starmer declines to comment on Elon Musk Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer refused to be drawn into comments made by X owner Elon Musk about the ongoing disorder in the UK. When asked by reporters if he was worried about Mr Musks impact on the unrest, or if the man who bought social media platform Twitter had a point with some of his opinions, Sir Keir said: My focus is on ensuring that our communities are safe. That is my sole focus and I think its very important for us all to support the police in what theyre doing. I went up to Southport to speak to some of the police who had been the first responders to the terrible attack that happened. They described the scene to me and what they had to deal with when those girls were attacked. Those same officers were then attacked on their own streets later the same day - the same officers who had been the first responders. Our first duty is to support the police in a difficult exercise that they are engaged in, keeping us safe... the police are doing a difficult job in difficult circumstances and I think that everybody should be giving their full support to ensure that we can make sure that our streets are safe and our communities feel safe and secure. That is really where the focus ought to be. That is my sole focus and thats why I held this second Cobra meeting. 08:35 PM BST Response to rioters has been robust and swift, says Starmer Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the criminal justice system has shown a robust and swift response in the face of ongoing unrest. Speaking to reporters after Tuesdays Cobra meeting, Sir Keir said: Within a week, the criminal justice system really has shown the robust and swift response that is very important to sending a message in circumstances like this. Keir Starmer speaking after Cobra meeting with senior officials 08:32 PM BST Substantive sentencing for rioters, Starmer says Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he is expecting substantive sentencing for those taking part in the unrest before the end of this week. Speaking to reporters inside Downing Street on Tuesday evening, Sir Keir said: Those involved will feel the full force of the law... over 400 people now have been arrested, 100 have been charged - some in relation to online activity - and a number of them are already in court. Im now expecting substantive sentencing before the end of this week. That should send a very powerful message to anybody involved, either directly or online, that you are likely to be dealt with within a week. Nobody, but nobody, should be involved themselves in this disorder. 08:30 PM BST Communities will be safe Keir Starmer promises ahead of further riots Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has promised communities will be safefollowing a Cobra meeting on Tuesday evening and said those taking part in unrest will feel the full force of the law. 08:13 PM BST Attorney General leaves Cobra meeting Richard Hermer, the Attorney General, has been seen leaving the Cabinet Office in Westminster, London, where Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has chaired a meeting of the Governments emergency Cobra committee. Attorney General Richard Hermer - PA 07:52 PM BST Woman who pushed burning wheelie bin into police pleads guilty A woman who pushed a burning wheelie bin into a row of police officers before falling to the ground and being arrested has pleaded guilty to violent disorder. Teesside Magistrates Court heard Stacy Vint, 34, and a man were seen pushing the bin, the contents of which were on fire, on Linthorpe Road during unrest in Middlesbrough on Sunday. Prosecutor John Garside said the pair then shoved the bin at a police line before Vint fell over and was arrested. She initially gave officers a false name, the court heard. Vint was remanded in custody until her sentencing on August 28. 07:40 PM BST Police appeal for video footage of riots in Birmingham Police have appealed for video footage of criminality, including an attack on a car, during a counter-protest staged after social media rumours of a far-right march being held in Birmingham. Officers are also treating an attack on a drinker who was punched and kicked outside a pub in the Yardley area of the city as violent disorder. West Midlands Police said the level of policing during sporadic incidents of disorder on Monday night had been commensurate with intelligence assessments made before hundreds of people gathered in the Bordesley Green area. As well as smashing a window of a car, counter-protesters broke windows at a pub and attacked a man aged in his 50s standing outside who is not believed to have suffered serious injuries. Officers have also arrested a 46-year-old on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon after television coverage of a person apparently holding a sword, and added they are investigating attempts to slash a tyre on a Sky News vehicle. A Sky News correspondent was followed by a man in balaclava holding a knife after speaking live from Birmingham. The man stabbed the tyre of Sky broadcast van but didn't damage it, so the crew was able to drive away.https://t.co/7zoRVgoBS2 pic.twitter.com/rbUTzpIPfN Sky News (@SkyNews) August 5, 2024 07:25 PM BST We are coming for you, warns police chief after 51 officers injured in Rotherham South Yorkshire Police said a total of 51 officers were injured as a result of violence outside the Holiday Inn Express Hotel in Manvers, Rotherham on Sunday. Officers received injuries including broken bones, concussion, bruising, and head wounds, while police horses and dogs were also hurt, with one horse sustaining a hoof injury which has forced it retire from duty. Police clash with rioters outside hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham - Christopher Furlong/Getty Images Injured officers who have been unable to resume frontline duties are now part of the team trawling through footage and gathering evidence to secure arrests and charges, the force said. Assistant Chief Constable David Hartley said officers were truly grateful for the kind messages of thanks and support which have been received from our communities, adding: I am so proud of our officers bravery and resilience on the night and now their ongoing dedication to helping our communities remain safe, coming back to work despite being subjected to such terrible levels of violence. Mr Hartley added: If you were involved in the outright acts of violence and thuggery on Sunday, let me be clear - we are coming for you. 07:18 PM BST Nigel Farage refuses to apologise over Southport comments Nigel Farage has said he was referring to claims made by influencer Andrew Tate when he asked whether the alleged Southport attacker was known to security services. In a video posted on July 30, the day after the attack that killed three young girls, Reform UK leader Mr Farage said there had been reports that the suspect was being monitored by the security services. Referring to the police description of the attack as a non-terror incident, he added: I just wonder whether the truth is being withheld from us. I dont know the answer to that. I think its a fair and legitimate question. Speaking to LBC on Tuesday, he declined to apologise for his comments, saying the disorder following the Southport attack had been so bad because we werent told the truth. He said his comments about the security services had been referring to posts by prominent folks with a big following, such as Andrew Tate falsely claiming the suspect had arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel in a small boat in 2016. NEW: Nigel Farage says he was misled by Andrew Tate and 'other folk with big followings' into incorrectly suggesting that the man charged with the Southport killings 'was known to security services' pic.twitter.com/t5Mx9SEERv Politics UK (@PolitlcsUK) August 6, 2024 07:09 PM BST Police to be paid overtime to tackle riots Funding will not be a barrier to a strong police response to disorder, the Home Secretary has said. In a call on Tuesday, Yvette Cooper told chief constables their forces would receive support for overtime pay and any other resources they required when dealing with public disorder. She said: The police have my unwavering commitment to ensure they have everything they need to mobilise a strong frontline response across the country to put a stop to the appalling displays of violence and criminal damage we have seen in some of our towns and cities. Criminals should expect to pay the price for violent thuggery and disorder on our streets. Keyboard warriors also cannot hide, as criminal organisation and incitement online will be liable for prosecution and strong penalties too. 07:02 PM BST Immigration lawyers in fear of going to work Immigration advice staff and solicitors have said they are fearful about going to work amid one of the worst periods of violent disorder of the last decade. Police are aware of six potential events on Tuesday and officers are anticipating a busy day on Wednesday as they monitor reports of at least 30 possible gatherings. Concern for the safety of immigration law specialists in particular has been sparked after a list of solicitors firms and advice agencies across the country were shared in chat groups as targets in the coming days. Staff at some of those businesses said they have been advised to work from home on Wednesday, and that police and fire officers had visited their premises to check security arrangements including CCTV cameras and smoke alarms. An office manager at an immigration advisory service said he felt very very scared and very upset regarding the threats his workplace has received. The man, who wished to remain anonymous, said: Around this area, all of the shops that are next to us - theyre very scared as well. Offices and restaurants - theyre very scared and upset. 06:48 PM BST Pictured: Sir Mark Rowley arrives for Cobra meeting Sir Mark Rowley, the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, has arrived at the Cabinet Office for the Cobra meeting. Sir Keir Starmer is chairing a meeting of the Governments emergency Cobra committee on Tuesday evening following ongoing unrest across parts of the country. Mark Rowley arrives at the Cabinet Office - Aaron Chown/PA 06:41 PM BST NI Secretary calls for end to senseless violence Hilary Benn, the Northern Ireland Secretary, has called for an end to the senseless violence and intimidation. He said: The violence which has sowed fear in local communities and damaged businesses is totally unacceptable. The people of Northern Ireland deserve better. Those involved in this violent disorder are damaging the very communities they falsely claim to represent. He added: I urge those involved to stop this senseless violence and intimidation. 06:23 PM BST Farage condemns riots Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, has published a video on X, formerly Twitter, criticising rioters. The video, which is nearly nine minutes long, is accompanied by the caption: How to stop the riots. How to stop the riots. pic.twitter.com/WRAIhrgxe3 Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) August 6, 2024 06:19 PM BST Musks comments arent helpful, says senior police officer Supt Emlyn Richards, of West Midlands Police, said that the comments made on X, formerly Twitter, by Elon Musk, the social media platforms owner, are not helpful. She said: I dont think its helpful at this moment in time. However, people have that right to express their opinions and thats what Mr Musk has done. What I would say in respect of two-tier policing, is it doesnt exist in the West Midlands - we are here to police without fear or favour. The senior officer added: My plea to communities is to be extremely mindful of the incredibly harmful spreading of misinformation on social media at the current time, do challenge what you see online, report where appropriate and consider the source of the posts. 06:09 PM BST Labour MPs criticise Musk for his role in UK riots Elon Musk could be summoned for a grilling by British MPs over Xs role in riots that have rocked the UK over the last week, as well as his own comments about the violence. Chi Onwurah and Dawn Butler, who are both Labour MPs and are competing to chair Parliaments science, innovation and technology committee, told Politico that theyd press Musk and other technology executives to answer questions around the role of social media platforms amid unrest in the UK. Ms Onwurah, the Newcastle upon Tyne MP, told Politico: The really important points here are the way algorithms of platforms promote and amplify misinformation and the spreading of racial hatred, and how the platforms business models rely on that. She has already criticised Musk for what she called Xs role in spreading misinformation and she has said X has a responsibility not to incite racial hatred. Ms Butler, the MP for Brent East, told Politco that the committee must question all owners of social media platforms. She said of X: Its a very powerful base, and we need to understand that power and make sure that its responsible. 05:56 PM BST Thousands more riot police on standby over fears of violence at immigration centres An extra 2,200 specialist riot officers are being put on standby ahead of warnings that far right thugs are planning to target more than 30 immigration centres across Britain. Police forces had already mobilised 4,000 trained public order officers to deal with the violence and disorder sweeping Britain. But with the unrest showing no sign of abating, police leaders have boosted the numbers by an extra 2,200 officers. They will be on standby across the country and can be mobilised to support colleagues locally and regionally. The move comes amid fears that extremists are planning to target dozens of law centres which specialise in helping those seeking help with asylum applications. A list of at least 39 centres offering immigration services across England is believed to have circulated among far right groups. Police confirmed that intelligence sources had identified at least 30 hotspots where trouble could flare on Wednesday. 05:51 PM BST Nottingham protest location is elderly persons home, police say Nottinghamshire Police have urged anyone planning to attend a protest on Wednesday not to after it was found that the location advertised online is the address of an elderly person. In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, the force said: We are aware of a potential protest being organised in Nottingham on Wednesday evening. The location has no links to the business advertised on the internet. Officers have visited the address and it is home to an elderly person with vulnerabilities. 05:21 PM BST Police arrest man in connection with Birmingham protest A 46-year-old male has been arrested by police investigating TV footage that shows a man apparently armed with a weapon at a counter-protest in Bordesley Green, Birmingham, on Monday night. West Midlands Police also said an assault on a drinker outside Yardleys Clumsy Swan pub is being investigated as a violent disorder. Other inquiries are under way into damage caused to windows at the pub, attempts to slash a tyre on a Sky News vehicle, and damage caused to a Skoda car that was forced to drive across a grassed area after being attacked. 05:17 PM BST Teenager wore pink balaclava to disguise identity during Bolton riot A teenager who tried to disguise his identity by wearing a pink balaclava while he smashed the windows of police cars during a riot has been jailed. James Nelson, 18, was arrested after a protest in Bolton became violent on Sunday. Smoke bombs and other missiles were thrown during the disorder as police separated two groups - one of mostly Asian men and the other waving England flags. Nelson was charged with causing 4,999 worth of damage to police vehicles in a Morrisons car park on Black Horse Street. He was jailed for two months at Manchester and Salford magistrates court after pleading guilty to one count of causing criminal damage. He was also ordered to pay 4,999 in compensation by 1 December. James Nelson, who was arrested after a protest in Bolton became violent - Greater Manchester Police 04:51 PM BST Time for Keir Starmer to come out of hiding, says MP Sir Gavin Williamson has said it is time for the Prime Minister to come out of hiding and recall Parliament to deal with the disorder across the UK. Sir Gavin wrote on X, formerly Twitter: Disorder and violence continue to tear through our country. More than 400 people have been arrested, livelihoods have been damaged, and fractures within our society have been laid bare. Thats why its time for Keir Starmer to come out of hiding and recall Parliament. 04:46 PM BST Met Police vow to protect London from one of worst spates of violent disorder in last decade The Metropolitan Police has vowed to protect London from one of the worst spates of violent disorder in the last decade, as more protests are due to take place on Wednesday. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine, who is in charge of the policing operation, said: This country is faced with one of the worst spates of violent disorder in the last decade. This is a national critical incident and we will do everything in our power to protect London and its communities. We know about the events planned by hateful and divisive groups across the capital tomorrow night. Theyve made their intention to cause disruption and division very clear. The scenes of racist, thuggish and criminal behaviour across the country have been deeply shocking. Members of the public and officers have been attacked, many have been injured. We will not tolerate this on our streets. We will use every power, tactic and tool available to prevent further scenes of disorder. We arrested more than 100 people in central London disorder last week and we will not hesitate to arrest hundreds more if they take to the streets intent on fuelling violence. 04:34 PM BST Refugee charities call for turning point away from demonising language Nearly 250 refugee charities have signed a statement condemning anti-migrant violence and calling for a turning point away from the demonising language of the past. The charities have called for urgent action to ensure that local authorities have the resources they need to protect those under threat of attack in asylum accommodation, refugee service centres and places of worship. In the statement, published on Tuesday, the charities said: As organisations based across the UK working with refugees and migrants, we are deeply shocked and devastated by these horrific acts of violence. They added: This moment must mark a turning point, away from the divisive politics, racist rhetoric and demonising language of the past. Now is an opportunity to bring communities and the country together for a different way forward - one that is compassionate and united. 04:26 PM BST PM to chair emergency Cobra meeting Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, will chair another emergency Cobra meeting on Tuesday evening on the continued action to tackle the violent disorder that has been taking place around the country, according to the PA news agency. Relevant ministers and police chiefs will attend. 04:22 PM BST Watch: Apology issued to pub staff following Birmingham riots Click here to view this content. 04:16 PM BST Civil unrest is not terrorism: Telegraph readers react to riots Protests have erupted across Britain after the killing of three young girls in Southport. On Monday, demonstrations entered their seventh day with mass gatherings in Plymouth, Birmingham, Belfast and Darlington. Following the protests, the Governments independent reviewer of terror legislation, Jonathan Hall KC, has said politicians must not rush to class the riots as terrorism. In an exclusive Telegraph poll of over 28,000 readers, 88 per cent agree with Mr Hall, who said on the BBCs Today programme: I think that you need to be cautious about applying counter-terrorism in effectively a live incident, it could be escalatory. Read the full story here 03:52 PM BST Nearly half of voters think PM is handling riots badly, suggests poll A new YouGov survey shows that nearly half of voters think that Sir Keir Starmer is handling the riots badly. According to the poll, 49 per cent of Britons think that the Prime Minister is handling the riots badly, whereas only 31 per cent believe that he is handling them well. However, those surveyed have a more positive view when it comes the polices handling of the riots. Over half of Britons (52 per cent) believe that the police are handling the unrest well. 03:42 PM BST Tommy Robinson praises Elon Musk Tommy Robinson has said on X, formerly Twitter, that if it wasnt for Elon Musk, he wouldve been hung, drawn and quartered by the Government. If it wasn't for Elon Musk. The government and legacy media would've had me hung, drawn and quartered, without reply, over their failings. https://t.co/K2UAFuMfBb Tommy Robinson (@TRobinsonNewEra) August 6, 2024 Elon Musk has branded the Prime Minister two-tier Keir in his latest comments on how widespread riots are being policed across the UK. The owner of X, formerly Twitter, made the comments on the website in response to a video showing protesters hurling missiles at a pub in Birmingham, some of whom were masked and raising Palestinian flags. Click here to view this content. 03:31 PM BST First person charged with stirring up racial hatred over Facebook posts A man has been charged with intending to stir up racial hatred relating to alleged posts on Facebook, the Crown Prosecution Service said. Jordan Parlour, from Seacroft, Leeds, is the first person to face prosecution for posting allegedly criminal messages linked to the riots. Around 400 people attended a protest in Leeds City Centre on Saturday. Nick Price, the director of legal services, said: We have authorised West Yorkshire Police to charge Jordan Parlour, 28, with using threatening words or behaviour intending to stir up racial hatred. The charge relates to alleged Facebook posts between 1 August and 5 August in connection with the violent public disorder across the UK. It is extremely important there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings. He will appear at Leeds magistrates court on Tuesday. 03:01 PM BST Musk calls PM two-tier Keir Elon Musk has branded the Prime Minister two-tier Keir in the latest attack by the billionaire on how widespread riots are being policed across the UK. The owner of X, formerly Twitter, made the comments on the website in response to a video showing protesters hurling missiles at a pub in Birmingham, some of whom were masked and raising Palestinian flags. Mr Musk captioned the video with the message: Why arent all communities protected in Britain? Read the full story here 02:39 PM BST No doubt there is a paramilitary element to NI disorder, says assistant chief constable Melanie Jones, the assistant chief constable, has said she has no doubt there is a paramilitary element, describing scenes of disorder in Belfast on Monday night following an anti-immigration protest. Speaking at a press conference in Belfast, Ms Jones said: What we saw last night, we feel was different from what we saw on Saturday. On Saturday, we saw mainly older adult people who became involved in disorder. Last night it was clear to us that there was a younger element, teenagers mainly, who were involved in the disorder, but that there was an element of organisation and orchestration from what appeared to be older adults present at the scene. I have no doubt there is a paramilitary element to this, but I am not in a position to say that this is the main organiser or orchestrator of these events. However, we do keep an open mind to this and this will be part of our investigative strategy. Melanie Jones provides an update in relation to the disorder in Belfast - Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press 02:31 PM BST President of Police Superintendents Association appalled by violent disorder Nick Smart, the president of the Police Superintendents Association, has said he is appalled and disgusted by the violent disorder seen across the UK. He said: I am appalled and disgusted by the continued displays of violence and disorder that have been seen across the country in recent days. What we have seen in areas such as Rotherham, Hull, Plymouth and many more... was mindless violence from people clearly intent on hurting others and damaging communities and property. He added: Whatever has caused this political ideologies or disinformation being spread online, it must stop. Along with every member of the police family, I call for communities, tech companies and those in power to come together against these displays of aggression, and to challenge false information that could be inflaming this. 02:27 PM BST Watch: Man knocked to the ground by police shield during riot Click here to view this content. A man was knocked to the ground by a police officer carrying a riot shield during a night of violence in Plymouth, footage shows. Devon and Cornwall Police officers wearing full riot gear and carrying protective shields are seen standing in a line when a man wearing a pink T-shirt approaches them. As he stumbles towards the officers, one strikes him with a shield and the man appears to briefly lose his balance. The footage shows him then face the officer once more before being hit again, losing his footing and then dropping to the floor. Read the full story here 02:17 PM BST Religious leaders have absolute assurance of support, says Scottish Secretary Ian Murray, the Scottish Secretary, has written to religious leaders in the wake of violence across the UK to give an absolute assurance of support. Violence sprung up in England and Northern Ireland in the past week as a result of anti-immigrant demonstrations that led to rioting following the killing of three young girls in Southport. Mr Murray said in a statement: I have today written to religious leaders to give them my absolute assurance that I will do everything possible to support them at this difficult time. I know that the Chief Constable is aware of their concerns and has already taken steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all Scotlands communities. There is no place in Scotland for this sort of violence, hate and xenophobia. We simply will not tolerate it. 02:01 PM BST India advises visitors to UK to stay vigilant The High Commission of India in London has issued a safety advisory for Indian nationals in the UK, urging them to stay vigilant due to the ongoing riots. The advisory comes after a series of disturbances in parts of the UK over the past week, which have raised concerns about the safety of Indian citizens and other immigrant communities. The advisory says: The High Commission of India in London is closely monitoring the situation. Visitors from India are advised to stay vigilant and exercise caution while travelling in the UK. 01:51 PM BST Children injured in Southport stabbing discharged from Alder Hey Hospital Alder Hey Childrens Hospital has released a statement on X, formerly Twitter, to say that all of the children under their care that were injured during the Southport stabbing have been discharged. We are really pleased to be able to share that all the children involved in last Monday's awful incident in Southport who were under our care have now been safely discharged home from Alder Hey. Full statement: https://t.co/CmYwc5BDk1 pic.twitter.com/iUO0hijzzk Alder Hey (@AlderHey) August 6, 2024 01:43 PM BST PM condemns violent disorder Sir Keir Starmer has condemned the riots plaguing Britains streets as he chaired Tuesdays Cabinet meeting. According to Downing Street, the Prime Minister said: When I went to Southport I spoke to police who described what it was like to attend the mass stabbing of little girls and then to be back on duty the next day in riot gear, having bricks thrown at them. This is something no-one would have ever wanted to see and we need to be calling it out for what it is. It is not protest. It is violent disorder and needs to be treated as such, as criminal activity. 99.9% of people across the country want their streets to be safe and to feel safe in their communities, and we will take all necessary action to bring the disorder to an end. 01:39 PM BST Attack on pub by Muslims was a natural reaction to riots, says MP Ayoub Khan, an Independent MP for Birmingham Perry Barr, has said that the attack on a Birmingham pub by a group of Muslims was just a natural reaction to all the riots. He said: You can see why its being played out in that way the stoking up of tension, the Islamophobic attitude. He added: Youre not going to be able to control young men which are upset and angry this is a natural reaction. "You're not going to be able to control young men which are upset and angry this is a natural reaction". Astonishing to hear a sitting MP defend violent unrest like this. Plays right into the hands of the far right, and backs up the claim of inconsistent treatment. https://t.co/tTgGMXL1TO John Burn-Murdoch (@jburnmurdoch) August 6, 2024 01:32 PM BST Wes Streeting condemns mindless thuggery People who are racist to NHS staff in health settings can and should be turned away from care, the Health Secretary has said. Wes Streeting said the Government will not tolerate the continuation of violence seen in towns and cities across England in the aftermath of the Southport stabbings. In an interview with the PA news agency, Mr Streeting condemned the mindless thuggery seen on streets across Britain over the past week. He said: The Government will not tolerate the continuation of this mindless thuggery by far-right agitators in our country. I was appalled by reports of violence directed towards Filipino nurses in Sunderland - these were nurses going into work to provide emergency care and their attackers bring shame on our flag and shame on our country. He added: People who are abusing NHS staff can be turned away, and should be turned away, if that is the way that they are treating our staff. The two nurses were attacked on Friday evening as they travelled to work to provide emergency cover during unrest in Sunderland. According to reports, the taxi they were travelling in was pelted with rocks. 01:17 PM BST Police officers responding to riots completely traumatised Police responding to riots were left completely traumatised and feared that they would not make it home, the Merseyside chief constable has said. More than 80 officers were injured as violence erupted in Southport, Liverpool and Walton in the past six days. Serena Kennedy, the chief constable of Merseyside Police, said officers responding to the knife attack and the subsequent protests were left completely traumatised. After a vigil was held in the town following the knife attack, protesters who had gathered outside a mosque clashed with police with bricks and other missiles thrown at officers. Read the full story here 12:54 PM BST First person convicted after Rotherham rioting Joshua Simpson, a self-employed builder, has become the first person to be convicted following the rioting in Rotherham after he admitted assaulting a police officer. Sheffield magistrates court heard how Simpson, 25, was abusive to police before he kicked a riot shield, forcing it back on to an officers leg. A deputy district judge was told that the incident happened as those involved in Sundays disorder were dispersing and that Simpson turned up by himself in the evening after seeing the incident unfold on a video. The defendant admitted one count of assault of an emergency worker. He was remanded in custody by deputy district judge Simon Blakebrough who asked for a pre-sentence report to be prepared before he is sentenced on Aug 27. The judge said he could not rule out sending Simpson, who said he is currently homeless, to prison. 12:42 PM BST Masked and armed protesters will face full force of law, says Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, the Justice Secretary, has said masked and armed protesters will face the full force of the law when causing violent disorder. Writing on X, formerly Twitter, she said: It doesn't matter who you are or what you're protesting if you turn up in a mask, with a weapon, intent on causing disorder, you will face the full force of the law. To those working with police and community organisations with pride and civic duty - you are the best of us. Shabana Mahmood MP (@ShabanaMahmood) August 6, 2024 11:58 AM BST James Cleverly criticises Sir Keir Starmers standing army announcement James Cleverly, the shadow home secretary, has criticised Sir Keir Starmers announcement of a standing army of public order police to deal with the rioting. The Tory frontbencher posted on X: Labour still dont understand that theyre not in opposition any more. In government you cant just say stuff, you have to do stuff. He went on to pose a series of questions about the plan, including: Using the word army always sounds tough but is he suggesting a paramilitary police force? What new or additional powers will the unit have? Police forces across the UK have officers who are public order trained, but when not dealing with disorder they have other police duties. Will this standing army of officers have no other duties? If so, what will they do when there are no riots? Or is Starmer expecting permanent riots? 11:53 AM BST Should the latest riots be classed as terrorism Politicians must not rush to class the riots that have erupted across Britain as terrorism, the Governments independent reviewer of terror legislation has said. Jonathan Hall KC said caution must be exercised when invoking terrorism powers to a live incident as you may end up with finger pointing at one group. Should the riots be classed as terrorism? Have your say below: Click here to view this content. 11:51 AM BST Eight arrested last night as riots entered seventh day Eight people were arrested last night as violent riots across the UK entered their seventh day. Three police officers were injured when far-Right and anti-racism groups clashed in Plymouth, with six people arrested. There were also disturbances outside a mosque in Darlington, where one person was detained. In Birmingham, hundreds of Muslims, including men in balaclavas and masks, gathered around a local mosque and shops amid rumours of a planned march by the far-Right. Meanwhile, in Belfast, riot officers were pelted with stones and petrol bombs and at least one police car was burned. The Police Service of Northern Ireland said one 15-year-old had been arrested 11:03 AM BST Police clash with rioters in Plymouth Click here to view this content. 10:39 AM BST Police appeal to identify rioters who attacked dog Staffordshire Police is appealing for help to identify rioters who attacked a police dog with a brick. Vixen suffered a nasty gash and required medical treatment after she was hit in the eye with the object, the force said. Six officers were also injured while responding to violent disorder in Tamworth and Stoke-on-Trent. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Staffordshire Police said: We need your help to identify those responsible for striking one of our police dogs with a brick and injuring six officers in the violent disorder in Tamworth and Stoke-on-Trent. Vixen was bravely trying to stop one of the thugs when she was struck above her right eye with a brick. She suffered a nasty gash and required medical treatment. She is now recovering at home and expected to return to work in a couple of days. Police appeal to identify protesters who attacked dog 10:32 AM BST Pictured: Yvette Cooper at Downing Street Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, leaves Downing Street this morning - Paul Grover 10:17 AM BST Rioters defile the flag that they wrap themselves in, says Archbishop of Canterbury People involved in violent riots on the streets in the past week defile the flag that they wrap themselves in, the Archbishop of Canterbury has said. Justin Welby condemned the criminal violence seen in parts of the UK, which has involved attacks on mosques, assaults on police officers, and looting of shops. The Church of England leader spoke of manipulation through social media and by people abroad, which he said must be strongly resisted. He did not mention names but several other critics have condemned Tommy Robinson, the former English Defence League leader, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, for stoking tensions online while out of the country. Mr Welby said people are being used in a ridiculous, appalling and immoral way as he spoke of the misinformation which had spread around the identity of the suspect in the Southport stabbings on July 29. 10:12 AM BST Holiday Inn calls for calm after attacks on hotels housing asylum seekers The owner of Holiday Inn has called for calm following attacks on several of its UK hotels housing asylum seekers over the weekend. A spokesperson for InterContinental Hotels Group said on Tuesday: This is a troubling and challenging situation, and we hope for calm to be restored as soon as possible. The safety and security of our colleagues and anyone staying in our hotels is always our priority. We continue to work closely with the authorities at a small number of properties, and the Home Office are in the best position to answer further questions. 09:54 AM BST Rioter bitten on backside by police dog cries in court A rioter who was bitten on the backside by a police dog cried in court as he admitted violent disorder. At another court, a burglar who raided a library in one of Britains most deprived neighbourhoods said: Nice one, lad as he was led down to the cells. A 14-year-old boy was watched by his father and uncle as he pleaded guilty to violent disorder after setting off fireworks at members of the public. The convictions came as the first wave of suspects arrested following mass riots across the country appeared in court for the first time. Read the full story here. 09:28 AM BST Officers attacked with petrol bombs in Belfast The Police Service of Northern has said its officers came under sustained attack from multiple petrol bombs, heavy masonry and bricks in south Belfast over a number of hours on Monday night. Petrol was also poured over a police Land Rover and set alight, though the occupants of the vehicle were not physically harmed and remained on duty. Police deployed two attenuating energy projectiles (AEPs) with one rioter struck on the hand. Meanwhile, a man in his 30s is in a serious condition in hospital after being attacked in the Donegall Road and Oban Street area in a suspected hate crime. Police said witnesses reported seeing his attackers stamp on his head as members of the public attempted to shield him from further attack. A 15-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour and remained in police custody on Tuesday morning. 09:16 AM BST Politicians must not rush to class riots as terrorism, says Governments independent reviewer of terror legislation Politicians must not rush to class the riots that have erupted across Britain as terrorism amid fears it could be escalatory, the Governments independent reviewer of terror legislation has said. Jonathan Hall KC said caution must be exercised when invoking terrorism powers to a live incident as you may end up with finger pointing at one group. Speaking to BBC Radio 4s Today programme, he said: I think that you need to be cautious about applying counterterrorism in effectively a live incident, it could be escalatory and youll end up with finger pointing. One group will start saying well if youre calling these people terrorists, why dont you call these people terrorists. 09:11 AM BST Six people to appear in court, says South Yorkshire Police South Yorkshire Police said six people, including two boys aged 16 and 17, would appear in court today charged in connection with the violence in Rotherham on Sunday. They are all due before Sheffield magistrates court. A spokesman for the force said: Lee Crisp, 42, of Mount Road, Grimethorpe, Christopher Rodgers, 38, of Millmoor Road, Barnsley and Liam Grey, 20, of Randerson Drive are charged with violent disorder. Two boys aged 16 and 17, who cant be named for legal reasons, are also charged with violent disorder. Joshua Simpson, 26, of Sherbrook Street, Lincoln, is charged with violent disorder and assault of an emergency worker. They are all due to appear in Sheffield magistrates court today (Tuesday 6 August). Curtis Coulson, 30, of Water Slacks Road, Sheffield is charged with affray. He appeared before Sheffield magistrates court yesterday (Monday 5 August). He has been remanded into custody until his next court appearance on Friday (9 August). 08:37 AM BST Government will take very robust approach to riots, says justice minister The Government will take a very robust approach to social media firms in the wake of the riots, Heidi Alexander said. The justice minister told Sky News: The idea that you can sit behind a computer screen or sit behind the screen of your mobile phone and somehow think that that protects you from the law is for the birds. So we will take a very robust approach to the social media companies, I know that Peter Kyle the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology is already in conversation with them. There has been some welcome action where there has been automated removal of some false information, but I do think the social media companies could and should be doing more. They have got a moral responsibility not to be propagating and disseminating misleading and inflammatory content on their platforms. 08:34 AM BST Courts could start sitting through night, says justice minister Courts sitting through the night to swiftly see rioters in the dock is something that could possibly start taking place across England, Heidi Alexander said. The justice minister told LBC Radio: The additional courts protocol is something that could possibly be invoked in different regions of the UK if the chief police officer and the chief prosecutor in that area decide that they want it. They make an application to the judiciary and so the judiciary indicated yesterday that they would be willing to consider any of those requests. It would mean that in the magistrates courts there could be longer sittings, sittings through the evening, the night, at weekends. Ms Alexander told LBC new prison places would come into use next week at HMP Stocken, Rutland, and also said spaces at Cookham Wood Young Offenders Institution in Kent would be used for adult prisoners. Asked if rioters could be charged under terrorism laws, the minister said: Charging decisions are for the Crown Prosecution Service. There will be a range of offences that have been committed, as I said both on the streets and online. 08:17 AM BST Pictured: Police come under attack during protests in Belfast Sandy Row and Donegall Road where police came under attack during further disorder in south Belfast - Kelvin Boyes Sandy Row and Donegall Road where police came under attack during further disorder in south Belfast 08:13 AM BST Starmer clashes with Musk over UK riot remarks Elon Musk and Sir Keir Starmer have clashed after the tech boss claimed that Britain was heading for civil war. The billionaire owner of X, formerly Twitter, provoked a row with Downing Street over the riots that have engulfed UK cities amid accusations that social media is fuelling the unrest. Read the full story here. 08:12 AM BST One arrested following violent disorder in Darlington On Monday evening there were disturbances outside a mosque in the North Lodge Park area of Darlington. Far-Right supporters who had gathered in the area clashed with counter protesters before police came under attack. A spokesman for Durham Constabulary said: One person has been arrested following violent disorder in Darlington last night. Officers were deployed to the North Lodge Park area after two large groups of mostly males had gathered shortly after 9pm, resulting in small pockets of serious violence. 08:03 AM BST Justice minister says 500 more prison places available to deal with rioters Heidi Alexander, the justice minister, said the Government had brought more than 500 additional prison places into use to deal with rioting, and some 6,000 specialist police officers were at the ready. She told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: We will make sure that anyone who is given a custodial sentence as a result of the riots and disorder, there will be a prison place waiting for them. What we have been able to do in the last week since the problems have arisen is that we have been able to bring forward some additional prison places that we had been due to bring on stream later in the month. There are 567 additional prison places. 07:33 AM BST Criticism of Elon Musk civil war comments mount Ministers continued to criticise Elon Musk for claiming civil war in the UK is inevitable as rioting continues. Heidi Alexander, the justice minister, told Times Radio: I agree with what the spokesperson on behalf of the Prime Minister was saying yesterday. I do think these comments are unjustifiable. If you have got a platform, a large social media platform, then you have also got a responsibility. I think it is deeply irresponsible, I think everyone should be appealing for calm. Use of language such as a civil war is in no way acceptable. We are seeing police officers being seriously injured, buildings set alight, and so I really do think that everyone who has a platform should be exercising their power responsibly. 07:32 AM BST Police injured in Plymouth as protests enter seventh day Police officers have been injured during sustained violence in Plymouth as disorder continued for a seventh day after the Southport stabbings with more than 370 arrests made so far. Devon and Cornwall Police said six arrests were made in Plymouth on Monday after several officers sustained minor injuries and two members of the public were taken to hospital. It came after bricks and fireworks were launched towards officers who had attempted to keep rival demonstrations apart in the Devon port city. In Southport, hundreds of people attended a peaceful vigil a week on from the murders of Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. State of Alabama to allow execution of convicted murderer via nitrogen gas MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WHNT) Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall announced that the State of Alabama has settled a lawsuit that will allow the execution of a convicted murderer to proceed as scheduled in September. Alan Miller had challenged the method of his execution, Nitrogen Hypoxia, for months. The two sides had spent months in discovery, anticipating a major hearing on Aug. 6. However, after reviewing key documents and deposing the States witnesses, Miller has agreed to settle with the State. Fayetteville High School staff member placed on leave following online accusations The settlement terms remain confidential, but the result will be the dismissal of Millers lawsuit with prejudice. The resolution of this case confirms that Alabamas nitrogen hypoxia system is reliable and humane, Attorney General Marshall said. Millers complaint was based on media speculation that Kenneth Smith suffered cruel and unusual punishment in the January 2024 execution, but what the State demonstrated to Millers legal team undermined that false narrative. Millers execution will go forward as planned in September. Alabama was the first State in the nation to use nitrogen gas as a method of execution in January when it successfully executed Kenneth Smith for the 1988 murder-for-hire killing of Elizabeth Sennett. Although Miller sued in 2022 to ensure that his method of execution would be nitrogen hypoxia, he later asked a federal court to force the State to change its protocol. What is Pressed for Space in the Rocket City? Click here for more info on this News 19 Investigation Attorney General Marshall said Millers speculative complaint relied on news reports, an unsworn statement by Kenneth Smiths lawyer, and hyperbolic claims by Smiths spiritual advisor that Smith appeared to be in discomfort during his execution. The State responded to Millers claims that Smith was holding his breath and that much of the reporting wrongly attributed Smiths early movements to nitrogen gas. Smiths expert, Dr. Phillip Nitschke, explained that if Smith had taken deep breaths, he would, almost certainly, have lost consciousness and died much sooner than he did. Miller has spent over 20 years on death row for the murders of Lee Holdbrooks, Scott Yancey and Terry Lee Jarvis on Aug. 5, 1999. Miller had worked with the victims and claimed that they had spread rumors about him. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) New York State Department of Environmental Conservation forest rangers made plenty of rescues over the last few days in St. Lawrence and Lewis counties. In the DECs weekly recap, a total of six search and rescues were made by rangers in the two counties. See any wild turkeys in August? Tell the DEC Last year, DEC officers conducted 370 search and rescue missions, extinguished 146 wildfires covering nearly 1,400 acres, participated in 52 prescribed fires that served to rejuvenate more than 1,000 acres of land, and worked on cases that resulted in hundreds of tickets and arrests. Heres a breakdown of what happened over the last few days: Around 1 p.m. July 31, Ray Brook dispatch received a call requesting assistance with the search for a missing 12-year-old in the town of Piercefield. The child from Brockport did not show up for a 10:45 a.m. activity at the Massaweppie Scout Camp and was last been seen by his scout leader at 10:30 a.m. Six rangers, five DEC officers, the St. Lawrence County Sheriffs Department and camp staff searched through the afternoon and into the night. Search crews checked all structures in the camp, nearby parked vehicles, Long Pond and Massawepie Lake. After 8 p.m., a community member at a nearby hunting camp found the subject. Ranger Emerson and ECO Atwood drove the subject back to the camp where he was reunited with his mother. The scene was cleared at 9:30 p.m. At 10:45 p.m. August 1, rangers responded to Cranberry Lake in the town of Clifton for a report of a hiker with a head injury near Curtis Pond. Rangers took a boat across the lake and hiked into the area where they found the 25-year-old from New Jersey suffering from a head injury sustained earlier in the day. Despite the injury, the subject continued to hike 10 more miles, before becoming nauseated and dizzy. The hiker was assessed and then helped to the boat. The hiker was transported across the lake to Cranberry Lake Rescue, who took her to the hospital. Resources were clear at 3:30 a.m. Around 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Forest Rangers Evans and Lee responded to a call for multiple subjects in distress on the Black River in Lyons Falls. A 66-year-old, 44-year-old, 37-year-old, and 5-year-old from Boonville were approximately one mile downstream from the Lyons Falls boat launch when they fell out of their kayaks. A nearby motorboat operator helped the four into the boat. Rangers arrived in an air boat and brought the subjects to a waiting ambulance. Rangers assisted the Lewis County Sheriffs Department and the 3G, Lyons Falls, and Port Leyden Fire Departments. Resources were clear at 1:30 p.m. At 3:45 p.m. Sunday, St. Lawrence County requested ranger assistance for two hikers who had suffered hip injuries at Chair Rock Flow in the town of Clifton. Officers responded with Cranberry Lake Volunteer Fire Department. Rescuers helped both people approximately .75 miles to the lake and then 5.5 miles by boat to the Cranberry Lake boat launch where they were met by an ambulance. Resources were clear at 6:15 p.m. About 4 p.m. Sunday, the Cranberry Lake Campground caretaker requested DEC assistance with the eviction of a subject. Two rangers and a New York State Trooper evicted the subject and issued tickets for disorderly conduct and driving an unregistered vehicle. Resources were clear at 6:45 p.m. After 7 p.m. Sunday, Ray Brook Dispatch was contacted by a hiker near the Burnt Bridge trail who was experiencing what she believed was an allergic reaction with skin irritation, but no trouble breathing. Forest Rangers Emerson and Jansen reached the 23-year-old who was determined to be experiencing an anxiety attack. Rangers calmed the hiker and walked her out of the woods. Resources were clear at 8:52 p.m. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWTI - InformNNY.com. RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) Gov. Roy Cooper has declared a State of Emergency in North Carolina ahead of Tropical Storm Debby. According to the governors office, Tropical Storm Debby has the potential for life threatening flash flooding, riverine flooding, wind gusts up to 40 mph, coastal impacts and other effects. Tropical Storm Debby slowly moving towards the Carolinas This weather has the potential to bring intense rain and flooding to North Carolina and we are preparing for it, Cooper said in a statement. As the weather becomes more severe, I urge everyone to take precautions and stay safe. The order activates the State Emergency Operations Plan and allows for the North Carolina Department of Transportation and the North Carolina Department of Public Safety to take the appropriate action to ensure the expeditious movement of utility vehicles to eliminate power outages, vehicles carrying essential supplies such as food, medicine, and fuel or transporting livestock, poultry, and crops, according to the governors office. North Carolina crews clear storm drains, ready equipment ahead of storm The governor and NC Emergency Management officials are urging North Carolina residents to be safe and cautious during heavy rainfall and winds, and to expect flooding and power outages, as a strong weather system will impact the state starting Tuesday through the end of the week. According to the governors office, damaging winds and saturated soils might also lead to blown down trees and power lines, causing possible scattered to widespread power outages. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com. BOSTON, Mass. (SHNS)State tax collectors kicked off fiscal year 2025 by bringing in $2.648 billion in July, $18 million or 0.7 percent less than last July, the Department of Revenue said Monday. While last months take trailed July 2023 by less than a percentage point, DOR said the gap would have been larger if not for a quirk of timing. The agency said roughly $60 million of Julys revenue reflects a shift in collections between months because of timing, without which July 2024 revenue would be about $78 million or 2.9% less than actual collections in July 2023. Statehouse Spotlight: This sessions wins overshadowed by substantial losses Julys collections are the first of fiscal year 2025, a budget year during which the Healey administration and key lawmakers anticipate the state will collect $40.202 billion in general tax revenue plus at least another $1.3 billion in revenue from the states surtax on high earners. July generally produces 6.7 percent of annual revenue, DOR said. July revenue included decreases relative to July 2023 collections in withholding, non-withheld income tax, and all other tax, Revenue Commissioner Geoffrey Snyder said. These decreases were partially offset by increases in sales and use tax, and corporate and business tax. The decrease in withholding reflects current labor market conditions as well as periodic fluctuations. The decrease in all other tax is due, in part, to estate tax, a category that tends to fluctuate. Some on Beacon Hill were bracing for what Senate Ways and Means Chairman Michael Rodrigues said last week would be very bad news with the release of Julys receipts. We know that were going to have some very bad news on the economic front in just the next few days, that Julys [state tax revenue] numbers are going to be very bad. July is a small month, by the way, so its concerning for all of us, Rodrigues said early Thursday morning. It is unclear exactly what is so concerning to the chairman, and Rodrigues office did not respond Monday to a request to speak with him. Julys revenues were not compared to monthly or year-to-date benchmarks because they have not yet been established. That is expected to happen by the end of the month, DOR said. And the first month of results from fiscal 2025 comes before the state has finished counting and processing all revenue from fiscal year 2024, which ended June 30. DOR typically has to report on the previous months tax collections by the third business day of the new month. But for June, the last month of the states fiscal year, the administration can under state law withhold the information that completes the fiscal years picture until the day after the department completes the processing of June tax revenues. On Monday, DOR said June 2024 and full Fiscal Year 2024 revenue collections will be available once DOR completes the processing of June revenue. It did not always take DOR this long to process June and year-end revenues, and last years Aug. 11 report was the latest in at least 20 years, according to the agencys archive of its press releases. From 1999 through 2001 and again from 2003 through 2019, year-end tax revenues and June collections were made public in July. In 2020, which saw tax filing deadlines moved as a result of the pandemic, DOR reported preliminary year-end results on July 24. The release extended into August in each of the last three years, coming on Aug. 3 in 2021, Aug. 4 in 2022 and Aug. 11 in 2023. DOR also reported June and year-end revenues in mid-August 2002, according to News Service reporting from the time, though the exact date is not available in DORs press release archive. DOR said the recent trend of year-end revenues being released in August is largely due to a legislative change that required certain taxpayers starting April 1, 2021 to remit an advanced payment of the tax to be reported on sales and use tax returns, meals tax returns, and room occupancy excise returns. Advanced payments are due the 25th day of the month that constitutes the taxable period, but the associated tax returns and any remaining portion of the tax amount owed are generally due the 30th of the following month. Advanced payments are usually remitted in one lump sum but may include multiple tax types, and DOR said it doesnt have all the information necessary to appropriately account for those advanced payments until the returns come in. For most of the fiscal year, DOR can account for advanced payments received in one month in the following month for instance, April advanced payments can be accounted for in May. But for the last month of the fiscal year, DOR is required to account for June advanced payments in the month of June, which means June revenues cannot be finalized until DOR gets the associated tax returns by July 30th. Once those returns are in, the department said, it can take up to two weeks to finish processing June tax revenues. The June revenue report will say a lot about the states financial picture, and the year-end figures could shed more light on just how much of a factor above-threshold capital gains revenues and revenue from the income surtax were in the April reversal of fortunes. April collections beat the monthly benchmark by more than $1 billion or nearly 20 percent, swinging the state from being $145 million in the red up to that point to beating projections by $889 million. But much of that overage came from revenue sources that are to be set aside for specifically mandated purposes and cannot be used to support general budgeted spending. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. State murder case overreaching, should go to feds, lawyer says GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) A former Michigan State Police sergeant contends his murder case should be removed from state court, saying actions by the Attorney Generals office reflect an attempted usurpation of federal authority. Brian Keely was charged with second-degree murder after his unmarked vehicle struck and killed a fleeing fugitive in southern Kent County. His case is pending in Kentwood District Court, with a hearing scheduled next week. The Michigan Attorney Generals office is prosecuting the case and wants it kept in state court. But Keelys lawyer contends federal jurisdiction is appropriate, saying Keely was acting under the direction, control, and supervision of the United States Marshals Service while trying to apprehend Samuel Sterling on April 17. Lawyers want to move MSP detective murder case to federal court The States stated positions are the exact type of overreaching and attempted usurpation of federal authority that the Supremacy clause prevents, attorney Marc E. Curtis wrote. Keely was assigned to a Grand Rapids crime task force when Sterling, a probation absconder wanted on felony warrants, was spotted at a Kentwood gas station. When officers approached, Sterling ran. Officers gave chase. An unmarked vehicle driven by Keely struck Sterling in a Burger King parking lot. He died from his injuries. Video shows man hit by unmarked MSP cruiser Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel in late May charged Keely with second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter, calling his actions legally, grossly negligent. Keelys legal team in late June requested that Keelys case be moved to federal court. A federal judge directed both sides to make their pitches. The state last week made its case in a 20-page response to keep the case in state court. It said state jurisdiction is proper, arguing that at the time Sterling as struck, Keely was not an officer of the United States or acting under one, and he was not acting under color of any federal office. Keelys legal team, in its 16-page response, disagrees. Defendant Sergeant Keely was operating as a task force officer pursuant to his special deputation as a United States Marshal, his lawyers wrote. The sole purpose, reason, and impetus for Defendant Sergeant Keelys presence at the scene of these events were his efforts to apprehend a wanted, dangerous fugitive, Samuel Sterling, pursuant to a federal law as part of a federal operation, his legal team wrote. The petition for removal is assigned to U.S. District Court Judge Hala Y. Jarbou. No timetable has been set for the judge to make a decision. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. (WKBN) The Ohio Democrat and Republican parties are reacting to Vice President Kamala Harris pick for a running mate. After days of speculation and nail-biting by our neighbors across the border in Pennsylvania, where Governor Josh Shapiro was in the running, Vice President Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate on Tuesday. They will rally together for the first time late Tuesday afternoon in Philadelphia. Mercer County Democratic Party Treasurer Kim Powell said there wasnt a bad choice among the contenders. I think any of the candidates that she was looking at have their strengths and would have all brought something to the table, Powell said. Mahoning County Party Chair Chris Anderson said Walzs track record made him the least controversial pick. My top three picks from the start have been Mark Kelly, Josh Shapiro and Tim Walz, Anderson said. To be honest with you, Tim Walz was essentially everything JD Vance pretends JD Vance is. Powell sees Walz as best able to relate to everyday voters. Teacher, football coach, hes out there cutting his grass his own grass, changing his own furnace filters. Someone like you or me making decisions, Powell said. As expected, the Ohio Republican Party immediately issued a statement saying it was not surprised by Harris pick. Tim Walz is the perfect choice for a San Francisco liberal like Kamala Harris. During his tenure as Governor, he provided drivers licenses and free college tuition to illegal immigrants. He failed to protect his citizens from the most violent and dangerous riots in recent memory. Just like Sherrod Brown, he has been, and will continue to be, a rubber stamp for Kamala Harris and Joe Bidens radical agenda that has crushed Ohios middle class families. Ohio Republican Party Chair Alex M. Triantafilou The Ohio Democratic Party said Walz is a proven fighter for working families, taking aim at Trump VP pick JD Vance. Governor Walz is a proven fighter for working families who has spent his time in office cementing Minnesota as a state that leads in abortion rights, workers rights, and so much more. Im looking forward to seeing him represent Midwest Democrats as he hits the campaign trail with Vice President Harris. He knows what its like to set a bold vision for the future and deliver on those promises. The contrast in this race is clear between Governor Walz and JD Vance, whose vision of the future only includes himself. Ohio Democrat Party Chair Elizabeth Walters Shapiro issued a statement following the announcement that Walz would be Harris running mate saying that he is grateful for the opportunity to speak with the Vice President about her vision for the country and respects that the decision of a running mate is a deeply personal one. Pennsylvanians elected me to a four-year term as their Governor, and my work here is far from finished there is a lot more stuff I want to get done for the good people of this Commonwealth, Shapiro said. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. HONOLULU (KHON2) Governor Josh Green says the state will pay about $800 million as part of the lawsuit settlement for the Lahaina wildfires. He says that wont have any effect on any of the states other top priorities. He talked about it on Wake Up 2day. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Just so people understand this is a huge settlement, said Gov. Josh Green. We will pay close to 20% the state will pay about that. The settlement agreement is more than $4 billion. So the states share is about $ 800 million. Green says that number couldve been a lot higher. What it will mean is we dont have the better part of a $7, $10, or even $12 billion settlement, said Green. In the early days of the negotiation the numbers were astronomical and I was able to get it down to $4 billion. The payout will be over several years, which Green says, will help soften the blow and not take away from other priorities like housing and education. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news The legislature already provided a whole bunch of tax relief, so were not really looking to increase any type of taxes, said Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz, chair of the Senate Ways and Means Committee. More than $200 million has already been budgeted. Green says he wants to use some money from the states $900 million lawsuit this May from the makers of the drug Plavix. Green hopes another revenue generator some type of visitor fee. I will reiterate my strategy all along from the beginning before the fire was to get some impact fee from travelers to pay for disasters to pay for going forward needs, said Green. $4 billion in compensation, from state, county, other stakeholders to resolve Maui fire claims Weve been trying for several years in a row, said Dela Cruz. If the Attorney General determines theres a way to legally do it, I think there are legislators that are open. But the most important thing about this settlement it helps start the recovery process that much sooner. I really pressed hard one to get it done so the people didnt have to wait many years in litigation, said Green. Could take 5-7 years. Also, I wanted to make sure a lot of that money, in fact most of that money stays here in the islands. Governor Green details Maui wildfire settlement A lot of effort probably needs to focus on, focusing on infrastructure, creating jobs, rebuilding schools, rebuilding facilities, helping people rebuild homes, said Dela Cruz. Thats where we need the energy. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Statewide turnout in Tennessee's August primary falls below 14% for first time in decades Statewide voter participation in the Aug. 1 primary elections was the lowest in decades, with fewer than 14% of Tennessee's registered voters voting early, absentee or on election day. While voter registration has increased steadily in recent years, fewer registered voters are actually participating in elections. Just over 637,500 voters cast ballots in the Aug. 1 elections, according to unofficial vote totals submitted to the Tennessee Secretary of States office. The number is expected to change slightly as results are certified, spokesman Doug Kufner said. In Anderson County, only 9,279 of the county's 51,605 registered voters chose to vote in the Aug. 1 election, absentee and during the two-week early voting period, according to the county Election Commission Administrator Mark Stephens. Hattie Perine smiles after casting her ballot on Election Day at Oak Ridge Senior Center in Oak Ridge, Tenn., Thursday, August 1, 2024. As of last month, there were nearly 4.6 million registered voters in Tennessee, according to the Secretary of States office a significant increase from 3.9 million in 2016. About 13.9% of registered voters participated in state primaries last week. Over the last decade, participation in August primaries has trended higher in gubernatorial primary years, with the exception of 2020, when more voters cast absentee ballots due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Statewide voter turnout in August state primaries has dipped below 15% just three times in the past 30 years, all in presidential election years. Still, only a fraction of registered voters routinely participate. Tennessee was ranked 51st in the U.S. for voter turnout in 2022 in an elections performance analysis conducted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. While voter registrations have increased steadily, only an estimated 80% of Tennessee citizens eligible to vote are actually registered, despite online registration being available. But state election officials expect much better turnout in November for the presidential election. Participation is historically much higher during presidential general elections and rose to 69% in 2020. It has never been easier to register to vote or cast a ballot in Tennessee, Kufner said. Voters have the convenience and flexibility of the 14-day early voting period, as well as Election Day to make their voices heard. The Secretary of States office wants all registered voters to cast a ballot during the November election cycle, and we anticipate a robust turnout this fall. Vivian Jones covers state government and politics for The Tennessean. Reach her at vjones@tennessean.com or on X at @Vivian_E_Jones. The Oak Ridger's news editor Donna Smith contributed to this story. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Statewide turnout for Tennessee primary election falls below 14% BOSTON (WWLP) After a relatively fruitless end of the legislative session last week the governor is calling on lawmakers to continue working. There was no progress made on a plethora of bills, including bills that the lawmakers themselves call priorities, like an omnibus economic development bond bill. Late Friday afternoon, Senate President Karen Spilka said the Senate is prepared to return to the economic development bond bill in a special session. A few hours later, House Speaker Mariano said the house will also return when such an agreement is reached. Salary transparency law aims to eliminate unequal pay in Massachusetts So, how can progress be made before the new session starts in January, either in special sessions or informal sessions? Lead lawmakers essentially have three options. Call a special session to deal with only the economic development bond bill Call a special session that deals with several issues, which may cause tension between lawmakers depending on what bills make the cut for discussion Continue working in informal sessions but lose the ability to authorize bonds for the bill Governor Healey called for legislators to continue work on this bill just after the formal session ended. The economic development billwould strengthen crucial industrieswhile creating good jobs in every region of this state, said Healey to State House News Service. The book should not be closed on this bill. It is too important. The calls for passage of the economic development bond bill are especially critical for Western Massachusetts, as the house version includes funds to help those dealing with crumbling foundations to repair their homes. Leadership in the house and senate will decide which path to take in the coming monthsor face starting each unpassed bill from scratch in January. Olivia Ray is a State House reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since April 2024. Follow Olivia on X @OliviaRayMedia and view her bio to see more of her work. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Tuesday was expected to bring thunderstorms and blowing dust to the Phoenix area, according to meteorologists. Strong to severe thunderstorms were expected from later in the afternoon into evening hours, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Isaac Smith in Phoenix. The storm will be developing across a higher terrain and will bring some small hail, Smith added. Distant patches of dust could be seen rolling northbound on traffic camera on the Arizona Department of Transportation's X account, as early as 6 p.m. "Also see stuff firing up across southeast Arizona, as well. So, we'll see that descend into the Valley heading into the early evening hours. We could see that spread across much of the lower elevations of central Arizona," Smith said. There was also a blowing dust advisory in effect from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Phoenix area, according to Smith. Chances for rain will begin to dry up as the week progresses, Smith said. Several dust storm warnings were issued for parts of Maricopa County. The weather service issued a dust storm warning until 8:15 p.m. for portions of the Phoenix metro area south of Mesa, including Chandler, Queen Creek and Sun Lakes. The weather service said wind gusts between 35-45 mph were possible throughout southwestern portions of the Phoenix metro area, with dust lowering visibility to below 3 miles in some places. Showers and storms were forming behind the dust storm, the weather service added. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix-area weather: Strong to severe thunderstorms, chance of hail A Matanzas High School student accused of beating his teachers aide after she asked him to put away his Nintendo Switch has been sentenced to 5 years in the Florida Department of Corrections, followed by 15 years of supervised probation. WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS 18-year-old Brendan Depas sentencing began in May but was postponed until Tuesday. Depa pleaded no contest to an aggravated battery charge in October. He was facing up to 30 years in prison. READ: OCPS eyes contingency plans in case two schools dont open Depa was captured on school surveillance video in February of last year chasing after and eventually beating his teachers aide Joan Naydich. You can hear Depa in deputy body camera footage spitting at the teachers aide and cussing at her after being taken into custody. His mother, Leann Depa, who adopted Brendan with her husband when Brendan was just 5 months old, said she never wanted him in public school. READ: Woman charged in ambush attack on Lake County deputies makes first court appearance She explained that he was placed there as a requirement of a group home he was living in. She pleaded with the judge to let her son come home, saying she did not believe jail was appropriate for Brendan. She explained his behavioral issues were visible even as a baby, and she claims she made the school aware of all of this. I had told the school being hungry was a trigger, noise was a trigger, being told no was a trigger, being corrected in front of other people was a trigger and electronics were a big trigger, said Leann Depa. READ: Military family survey reveals experiences vary, gaps in support remain When sentencing began back in May, states witnesses called Depa a danger to the community. Multiple doctors said then that they believed he would continue to have outbursts and issues even with medication. Depas former teachers aide said she wanted him to be held accountable for his actions. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. MINEOLA, N.Y. (AP) Lawmakers in a suburban New York county have approved a bill to ban masks in public places with exemptions for people who cover their faces for health reasons or religious or cultural purposes. Supporters said the bill approved Monday by the Republican-controlled Nassau County Legislature on Long Island would prevent violent protesters from hiding their identity. Legislator Howard Kopel said the measure was introduced in response to antisemitic incidents, often perpetrated by those in masks since the Oct. 7 start of the latest Israel-Hamas war. All 12 Republicans in the legislature voted in favor of the measure, while the body's seven Democrats abstained. The county lawmakers acted after New York's Democratic governor, Kathy Hochul, said in June that she was considering a ban on face masks in the New York City subway system. No specific plan has been announced to enact such a ban, which like the Nassau measure was floated in response to the rise in mask-wearing protesters. The New York Civil Liberties Union criticized the Nassau mask ban as an infringement on free speech rights. Masks protect people who express political opinions that are unpopular, the group's Nassau County regional director Susan Gottehrer said in a statement. Making anonymous protest illegal chills political action and is ripe for selective enforcement, leading to doxxing, surveillance, and retaliation against protesters. The Nassau bill makes it a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine for anyone to wear a facial covering to hide their identity in public. The measure exempts people who wear masks for health, safety, religious or cultural purposes, or for the peaceful celebration of a holiday or similar religious or cultural event for which masks or facial coverings are customarily worn. In testimony to legislators on Monday, Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said officers would know the difference between someone wearing a mask for criminal reasons and someone wearing it for medical or religious purposes. We are not going to just arrest someone for wearing a mask. We are going to go up to the person and talk to them and find out, Ryder said, according to Newsday. Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a Republican, is expected to sign the bill. Unless someone has a medical condition or a religious imperative, people should not be allowed to cover their face in a manner that hides their identity when in public, he said in a statement after the legislatures vote. Dozens of public speakers for and against the bill packed the legislative chambers. Supporters said the bill would keep protesters who commit acts of harassment or violence from evading accountability. In contrast, opponents said it would infringe on the health privacy laws of people with disabilities and would likely not be enforced fairly across different communities. Democratic Legislator Arnold Drucker said before the vote that the bill overstepped and could be detrimental to First Amendment rights. The Missouri state flag is seen flying outside the Missouri State Capitol Building on Jan. 17, 2021 in Jefferson City (Michael B. Thomas/Getty Images). The Missouri Housing Development Commission awarded millions of dollars in public funds and tax credits without notice or public votes, a former employee alleged in a lawsuit filed last week. The lawsuit, filed in Jackson County, claims the commission regularly violated the states Sunshine Law and the law governing its actions, which requires an affirmative vote of at least six of the members. The lawsuit was filed by Jesse Mofle, who was employed by the MHDC from March 2021 until October 2023. In addition to the Sunshine law claims, the lawsuit alleges that Mofle was also sexually harassed by a coworker. He was fired in retaliation for complaints he made about sexual harassment and complaints he made to the attorney generals office about Sunshine violations, the lawsuit states. Rather than hold public meetings where commissioners would vote on which developers were to receive millions in public funds and credits, the lawsuit states, MHDC staff would email commissioners their recommendations, to be implemented unless there were objections. The lawsuit also claims that the commission has violated the Sunshine law by failing to deliver records Mofle requested in September by the time the lawsuit was filed on July 31. The Missouri Housing Development Commission oversees the administration of low-income housing tax credits. There are ten commissioners, including the governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and state treasurer. Last year, it awarded $380 million in tax credits for low-income housing. The lawsuit alleges that in order to avoid conducting public meetings, the MHDC staff would email commissioners the list of proposed funding recipients andif a given commissioner had no objection, [MHDC] would implement the list as is. That violates the statutory requirement to hold a public, noticed meeting with recorded, affirmative votes, the lawsuit alleges. The agency knowingly violated the Missouri Sunshine law, the lawsuit states, each and every time funding was allocated without an affirmative vote, a meeting, notice of the meeting, and recording of the vote. The lawsuit is a last resort, Dan Curry, Mofles attorney, wrote in the court filing. Curry also serves as attorney for the Missouri Press Association. Mofle has exhausted any and all required administrative prerequisites in an attempt to gain satisfaction without going to court, Curry wrote. The lawsuit alleges Mofle was sexually harassed by a coworker and reported the behavior which included her tracking [Mofles] movements and stalking behaviors several times without resolution. Mofle took leave at the end of July 2023 because he was uncomfortable working due to the alleged sexual harassment and the anxiety of being asked to violate the law, the lawsuit states. He submitted a request for accommodations signed by his doctor to find another position that would avoid the need to follow directives from executive staff to violate the Sunshine law, according to the lawsuit. The lawsuit requests that the court void funding allocations that were made without proper votes. A spokesperson for MHDC did not respond to repeated requests for comment. The Independent previously found that developers who make large political donations to statewide officers on the commission received a significant share of the awards. Between 2018 and 2023, approximately $1 of every $6 in tax credits awarded since the start of 2018 has gone to the five developers who contribute the most. At the last meeting, held in December, members of the commission asked no questions about the staff recommendations. One member said hed just seen the recommendations for the first time during the meeting. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Tim Walz first got Donald Trump's attention after civil unrest broke out in Minnesota and across the country in 2020. Then president, Trump blistered the governor for the protests that consumed Minneapolis following George Floyds murder, and for not moving faster to deploy the National Guard. And though Walzs state is not expected to be competitive this year, the handling of that crisis by Kamala Harris newly minted running mate is likely to be a focal point again now. Theyre going to be just trying to throw a bunch of stuff against the wall and see what sticks, said Michael Brodkorb, a GOP strategist in Minnesota. The problem that creates is were on a very truncated calendar schedule and so youre going to see a lot of that throwing stuff against the wall, see what sticks, see what works. Trump has already laid the groundwork for a protest-based attack on Walz. He made the Minneapolis unrest a centerpiece of his 2020 campaign, casting the nations Democratic-run states and cities as lawless enterprises of the left. And this year is no different. At a recent rally in St. Cloud, Minnesota, the former president resurrected a four-year-old false claim that he sent the National Guard to respond to the civil unrest, following Floyds murder by a Minneapolis police officer, after Walz failed to do so. His remarks invoking violent mobs of anarchists and looters and Marxists that he said came to burn down Minneapolis four years ago foreshadow how the Trumps campaign and its allies are likely to use the unrest in Minneapolis in 2020 to portray both Harris and her running mate as soft on crime. And the episode highlights a broader challenge that Democrats are navigating in the campaign appealing to moderate suburbanites who see appeal in Trumps tough-on-crime message while not alienating progressives who balk at any notion of stepping up police power. Its a message that conservatives quickly amplified Tuesday. In a memo, Sara Craig, executive director of the Republican Governors Association, said that Walz was accused of hesitating to deploy the National Guard until it was too late despite a request from the mayor of Minneapolis while cities in Minnesota burned due to riots. Walz did face criticism at the time from the public and some elected officials like Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, a Democrat, accusing him of not acting quickly enough, with some suggesting that his sympathy for the protesters delayed action. Still, Walz, himself a retired guardsman who served for 24 years, deployed the National Guard via executive order more than seven hours before Trump posted on social media threatening to do the same. Shortly after, the former president said on social media that he had spoken with Walz and told him that the Military is with him all the way. Walzs office has said that the governor activated the guard in response to requests from officials in Minneapolis and St. Paul. If you put yourself in the governor's chair at the time that this was taking place, and you're trying to factor through all of the information that's happening, and all of the different agencies that are involved in a very volatile situation on the street people forget that he ultimately did call out the National Guard, and they did restore peace of the streets in Minneapolis, said Mike Erlandson, a Democratic strategist and former chair of the state party. If one had a crystal ball and could say, Well, you knew how everything was going to go. Should have been done sooner. Well, that's easy to say. At the time, the Minnesota governor called the local response to the unrest an abject failure and requested assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help rebuild and repair protest-related damage. But he also condemned Trump for social media remarks that when the looting starts, the shooting starts which many feared would incite further violence and worked with the state legislature to enact policing reforms. Behind the scenes, Walz pushed back on pressure from the White House to bring federal forces into Minneapolis to quell the unrest. The Minnesota governor made clear that he thought civilian unrest should be handled by civilians and not the military. I just made it very clear to them that in these situations that it was critically important that civilian leadership was seen as leading this, and that the face forward needed to look like your state, it needed to be the National Guard, it needed to be those local folk, Walz said in a 2021 interview for the book "This Will Not Pass." State Rep. Jamie Long, who currently serves as the state House majority leader, told POLITICO that Walzs actions kept Minneapolis safe in a very difficult time. Democratic strategists largely downplayed the prospect of the Floyd protests becoming a liability for Walz, who won reelection two years ago by a nearly 8-point margin. And they point to the defeat of a ballot measure in Minneapolis that would have replaced the police department with a public health-focused Department of Public Safety, as proof that the unrest of 2020 hasnt had staying power. I'm not sure why Trump would want to reuse the 2020 playbook that failed so spectacularly in both 2020 and 2022, said Jared Leopold, a Democratic strategist. Republicans' attempts to blame Democratic governors led to losses in every Midwestern battleground in the 2020 presidential and the 2022 gubernatorial elections. And Walz allies in the state legislature are framing his response to the unrest as proof of a steady hand in uncertain times, arguing it demonstrates an ability to strike a compromise even in seemingly no-win situations. In 2020, Walz worked with the state legislature to pass police reform legislation that bans chokeholds, establishes a crisis mental health response team and mandates certain training. The legislation, which ultimately satisfied neither activists nor police officers, allocated more than $3 million in new funding for the reform initiatives and extended $6 million in existing funds for training. Walz has tried to strike a balance, said Democratic state Rep. Tina Liebling, rejecting the accusation that Walz is soft on crime as absurd. He is very interested in bringing people together. Sometimes, those even to his left haven't even been happy about it. He's tried to work with the police, and he's tried to bring people together. She said, Some accusation that he's a wild leftist and against the police that would just be completely inaccurate. The Tallahassee Police Department has confirmed that a pedestrian death early Sunday was a hit-and-run. Around 2:45 a.m., 65-year-old Randall Allen was struck and killed at the intersection of Ocala Road and Pensacola Street, police said. TPD spokesperson Alicia Hill on Tuesday said the vehicle involved was located and they have identified a suspect, but no arrests have been made. Allen is one of six pedestrians killed in Leon County this year, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' Florida Crash Dashboard. So far in 2024, there have been 115 vehicle crashes involving pedestrians, not counting Sunday's death, and 44 crashes involving bicyclists in 2024, with a single fatality this year. Breaking & trending news reporter Elena Barrera can be reached at ebarrera@tallahassee.com. Follow her on X: @elenabarreraaa. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Tallahassee Police say Sunday's pedestrian fatality was hit-and-run OAK LAWN, Ill. A man was arrested in connection with a 2022 robbery at an Oak Lawn jewelry store where a store employee was shot and critically wounded. The Oak Lawn Police Department said at around 2 p.m. on July 1, 2022, three males went into Reichman Jewelers, pulled out guns, and disarmed the security guard. An employee of the store later emerged from the back of the store and was shot twice. The suspects then broke the glass jewelry cases, took jewelry, and drove off. The store employee was rushed to the hospital in critical condition with a gunshot wound to the chest, but has since recovered from their injuries, according to investigators. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Employee shot during jewelry store robbery in Oak Lawn In early July 2024, authorities said the Illinois State Police Forensic Laboratory alerted Oak Lawn detectives of a DNA match in the case. The match reportedly came from physical evidence recovered at the crime scene. Police then identified 20-year-old Dionte Reed as one of the suspects and obtained warrants of attempted murder and armed robbery against him. Reed was found in Indiana and booked into the Monroe County Indiana Jail. On Friday, Aug. 2, Oak Lawn police detectives traveled to Indiana and brought Reed back with them. Authorities then transferred Reed to the Cook County Jail for a detention hearing. A judge ordered Reed to be detained and his next hearing is set for Thursday, Aug. 29 at the Bridgeview Courthouse. Police said the investigation is still active and that they are still trying to find the other two suspects. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 708-907-4051 or text 708-613-8477. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. Suspect in fatal Walmart stabbing was recently released from state prison: deputies Both the suspect and victim in a fatal stabbing at a Lake Elsinore Walmart have been identified by authorities. According to the Riverside County Sheriffs Office, 29-year-old Lonnie Hinton is alleged to have stabbed one of the Walmart stores employees around 7 a.m. Monday. The employee suffered multiple stab wounds and died at the scene, the Sheriffs Office said. She was identified as 65-year-old Jessica Morales of Menifee. Riverside police arrest 3 Angelenos in armed robbery of pharmacy, 5 employees First responders arrived at the store and located Morales suffering from multiple stab wounds. She died at the scene. A man is in custody following a deadly stabbing at a Walmart in Riverside County on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. (OnSceneTV) A man is in custody following a deadly stabbing at a Walmart in Riverside County on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. (OnSceneTV) Police activity outside the Lake Elsinore, California where a woman was fatally stabbed on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. (OnScene.TV) This appears to be a random event, and there was no interaction between the suspect and victim prior to the assault, deputies said in a media release. Through their initial investigation, detectives learned that Hinton, a resident of Wildomar, was released from state prison earlier this year and was on active parole at the time of the stabbing. Second strike inmate sought after walking away from CDCR camp He was booked into the Cois Byrd Detention Center and charged with first-degree murder, according to inmate search records. He is being held without bail. Hintons first court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday morning at the Murrieta Southwest Justice Center. Anyone with information surrounding the fatal stabbing is asked to contact Central Homicide Unit Investigator K. Farag or Investigator D. Robertson by calling 951-955-2777. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. (FOX40.COM) The man accused in the fatal shooting an up-and-coming Sacramento rapper was convicted by a jury on Friday, according to the Sacramento County District Attorneys Office. Moses Hirschfield is convicted of shooting and killing 24-year-old Christopher Treadwell, who gained a following as a rapper by the name of Bris. In the early morning hours of June 21, 2020, Treadwell went inside an AM/PM convenience store to buy food. When he entered the store, he saw Hirschfield and immediately left and drive off in his car. Man convicted by jury in 2022 South Sacramento fatal shooting The DAs office said Hirschfield followed Treadwell and chase him with his car. The chase between the two reached as high as 113 miles per hour. Treadwell lost control of his car and ran on foot with Hirschfield continuing to chase him with his car and later foot. Prosecutors said the chase stopped at a fast-food drive thru, where Hirschfield shot Treadwell in the back of the head. Hirschfield was convicted of first-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He faces a maximum sentence of 50 years to life in prison and is set to be sentenced on Aug. 29. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. SWAT, US Marshals execute search warrant in East El Paso SWAT, US Marshals execute search warrant in East El Paso EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) El Paso Polices SWAT team helped the U.S. Marshals office with executing a search warrant in East El Paso late Monday night, Aug. 5. According to police, the incident happened at the 2100 block of Septiembre Dr. No further information has been released. Were working to gather more information and update this developing story. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. Death row inmate Taberon Honie looks on during the Utah Board of Pardons commutation hearing Monday, July 22, 2024, at the Utah State Correctional Facility, in Salt Lake City. (Pool photo by Rick Bowmer/AP) Attorneys for death row inmate Taberon Honie are asking Utah Gov. Spencer Cox to delay the execution scheduled for early Thursday morning over concerns that the current lethal injection protocol is incomplete and the steps prison officials took to obtain the drug are shrouded in secrecy. Its the argument Honies attorney Eric Zuckerman has been making since his death warrant was signed in June that the states execution protocol is outdated, incomplete and contradictory. Carrying out the execution violates state law, Honies attorneys argue, because the Utah Department of Corrections cant enforce inconsistent and incomplete protocols. According to Zuckerman, the departments current protocol increases the likelihood Honies execution could go awry, subjecting him to unconstitutional pain and suffering. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Using that argument and citing concerns over the drugs the state initially planned to use, Honie sued prison officials in July, although that lawsuit was dismissed last week. After the judges ruling, Zuckerman told reporters the states approach was dangerous. The Department of Corrections, meanwhile, said the narrative of a rushed, and even reckless process is false in a statement Monday. We have been meticulously planning this process for several months, said Glen Mills, communications director for the department. We are approaching our responsibility with the utmost care and professionalism. Its unclear if the governor plans to respond to the letter. Coxs office did not provide Utah News Dispatch with comment Monday afternoon. While other states sometimes allow the governor to grant clemency to death row inmates facing execution, Utah law does not. In the letter, Honies attorneys instead ask Cox to use his power as the Governor to instruct the Department of Corrections to follow the law and update its protocols. Other republican governors have stepped in to make sure that their corrections departments have adequate time to prepare for executions, the letter reads, citing a 2022 decision from Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey to place a moratorium on the states executions. After three months, the moratorium was lifted. Given that this is the first lethal injection in Utah in over 25 years, and the process has been unnecessarily rushed, it would be prudent for Utah to conduct a similar review of its execution procedures, the attorneys wrote Cox, asking for a temporary reprieve. The Departments current plan, announced less than two weeks ago, leaves less than three weeks for prison personnel to prepare for Mr. Honies execution, the letter reads. It would be prudent to give the Department additional time to formalize its execution plans, instead of rushing forward with unclear and conflicting documents as the only guide, and for the State to conduct a review to ensure that any execution occurs in a manner that comports with the Constitution and all applicable laws. Honies now dismissed lawsuit mostly revolved around the states decision to use an untested, three-drug cocktail consisting of fentanyl, ketamine and potassium chloride. It would have been the first time ketamine was used in an execution, and Honies attorneys argued neither that nor the fentanyl administered would be enough to shield the pain caused by potassium chloride. The state recognized the lawsuit would likely result in a lengthy, legal process and agreed to instead acquire pentobarbital, an anti-seizure medication now widely used in federal and state executions, recommended by Honies attorneys. According to court documents, the state paid an anonymous source more than $200,000 for the pentobarbital, more than twice what any other state has paid, the letter reads. Utah, and other states, dont disclose where they get drugs for lethal injection. During a hearing in Honies lawsuit, attorneys for the state said that was because the sources are targeted by anti-death penalty activists. And finding such drugs can be difficult and legally fraught its illegal in the European Union to supply drugs for an execution (although that hasnt stopped U.S. prison officials from trying, according to reporting in the Arizona Mirror) and pharmaceutical manufacturers often decline to participate in lethal injections. According to the letter to Cox, an anonymous individual contacted Utah Department of Corrections Director Brian Redd, connecting him with someone, also anonymous, who purports to be a distributor of pentobarbital and was willing to provide pentobarbital in violation of pharmaceutical distribution agreements. But, as Honies attorneys write, the department has not provided any original documentation verifying the sources licensing and other relevant legal compliance, or the drugs validity, including a certificate of analysis. Whats more is the departments execution protocol a written set of guidelines and policies detailing how an execution should be carried out hasnt been updated since 2010, Honies attorneys write. That protocol refers to sodium thiopental, a completely different drug and process, the letter reads. Though sodium thiopental hasnt been available for years, state statute requires the department to use it or an equally effective substance. The state determined pentobarbital to be an equally effective substance. Rather than simply updating the execution protocol to account for the drug change, the Department has drafted additional informal instructions that conflict with the written execution protocol. The Department insists both are active and accurate, leading to irreconcilable conflicts that risk confusion during the execution process, according to the letter. The Utah Board of Pardons and Parole recently denied Honies request to instead spend the rest of his life in prison and with Honies lawsuit now dismissed, the letter to Cox marks one of the last attempts to stop the execution. Honie was sentenced to death in 1999 for the murder and sexual assault of Claudia Benn, the mother of his ex-girlfriend. Honie, according to court documents, broke into Benns house, killed her, and mutilated her body while her three grandchildren were in the house. He would later admit to molesting one of the children after the murder. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Uranium tailings are pictured near the Colorado River, north of Moab in Grand County on Sunday, April 28, 2024. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News Editors note: This article is published through the Colorado River Collaborative, a solutions journalism initiative that partners news, education and media organizations to help inform people about the plight of the Colorado River. CR collab logo-2 Sixteen million tons of radioactive uranium tailings once sat near the banks of the Colorado River, putting the waterway in peril of contamination on the outskirts of Moab. Removal began in 2009 and was halted for a time due to lack of funding for the U.S. Department of Energy cleanup project, but work is continuing at a steady clip with nearly 15 million tons shipped by rail to a disposal cell about 30 miles away at Crescent Junction. At this rate, the tailings removal may be completed by next year, but much work remains to be done afterward for full remediation of the area in which the uranium mill operated for nearly three decades. Area residents and Grand County officials have lofty goals for the future of the site: a beautiful riverfront park, perhaps an amphitheater. Mary McGann, a Grand County commissioner who heads up the steering committee involved in the project, said she envisions something similar to Las Colonias Park in Grand Junction, Colorado. It, too, was a remediation site for tailings removal and it, too, is adjacent to the Colorado River. Grand County officials have visited that site for ideas and another trip is planned this fall. The local steering committee includes a subcommittee for future site development. Its a wonderful park and we want to do something similar to that, she said. Contamination from what the locals call The Pile has been a problem for the Colorado River in Grand County before the establishment of the Moab Uranium Mill Tailings Remedial Action, or UMTRA, Project. But the project established groundwater wells to prevent the leaching and to serve other useful purposes. In an annual statement of compliance presented to the Grand County Commission Tuesday, the methodology of thwarting the contamination describes the approach this way: Active groundwater remediation is conducted to protect the critical habitat areas adjacent to the site, and to remove ammonia and uranium mass from the groundwater system. In addition to extraction of contaminated groundwater through eight wells located close to the tailings pile, freshwater (diverted river water) was injected through wells near the river as an additional way of minimizing the discharge of ammonia to the river. McGann said the diverted water harvested through groundwater management protects the river and critical habit, but also serves as a dust control method because it is applied to the pile helping to protect air quality. Eliminating the contamination is vital since the river serves 40 million people and irrigates more than 5 million acres of farmland. Piles of contaminated debris and uranium tailings are pictured north of Moab in Grand County on Sunday, April 28, 2024. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News Project accomplishments During the reporting period, which ran in mid-July of 2023 to mid-July this year, officials noted there were over 1,036,719 tons of uranium mill tailings shipped by rail four times a week. To date, the project has shipped more than 14.8 million tons, or about 92% of the total estimated 16 million tons in the tailings pile to be moved. During that same reporting period, more than 151,162 tons of debris was placed in the disposal cell also shipped by rail. That includes the successful removal of 14 autoclaves each weighing 16,000 pounds, according to project spokeswoman Barbara Michel. In March 2023, Congress approved $67 million for the projects removal efforts. UMTRA is also seeking approval by the U.S. Nuclear Commission to change the type of cover of the disposal cell. Instead of using a rock cover, project officials say an evapotranspiration cover would be more effective because it will last longer and is more suitable for the environment. Additionally, it would be more cost effective due to the requirement for fewer rocks. Correction: A previous version of this story said a proposed new cover for the tailings disposal cell would weigh less, which may or may not be the case. Officials say it would save money due to using fewer rocks. Tallahassee City Commission, Seat 1 Non-partisan: Incumbent Jack Porter faces challengers Louis Dilbert and Rudy Ferguson Who can vote: All registered city of Tallahassee voters. Whats next: One of the candidates must win more than half the vote to clinch the primary outright and avoid a runoff. If no one gets more than 50%, the top two vote-getters will proceed to the Nov. 5 general election. How much does this position pay: $45,288 CANDIDATES Louis Dilbert Louis Dilbert, candidate for Tallahassee City Commission, Seat 1 (2024 election cycle) Age: 44 Profession: Director of Military and Veteran Affairs and the TRIO Educational Opportunity Center at Florida A&M University; adjunct instructor at Tallahassee State College. Qualifications: 25 years of impactful servant leadership in diverse areas of the Tallahassee community including education, career development, veteran services and support for individuals with disabilities Website: louisdilbert.com Q: What is the pivotal issue in this election? A: There is a lack of civility among current commissioners. A strong 3/2 divide exists that is rarely deviated from and there is an antagonistic demeanor amongst the sitting commissioners lending to partisan versus independent thinking when decision-making. We must tackle issues regarding affordable housing, keeping in mind that affordable is based on income. There needs to be sufficient and accessible jobs that pay a living wage where someone can sustain a rent or mortgage payment in addition to other common life expenses. The number of unhoused residents is growing and we already have limited capacity with one shelter in place for the general population. Q: If you can accomplish just one thing in office what would it be? A: I would like to see another multipurpose center for individuals experiencing homelessness that extends beyond food and shelter to offer life skills training, career services and mental health resources. It could also be designated for special populations such as veterans, individuals with disabilities, seniors and women with small children. Ideally, it would be public/private partnership that would also allow nonprofits to use to provide services. There would also be funding for a maintenance plan so that the facility's condition doesnt noticeably depreciate after 2-3 years of operation. Rudy Ferguson Rudy Ferguson, candidate for Tallahassee City Commission, Seat 1 (2024 election cycle). Age: 52 Profession: Executive director, The Frontline Project, Inc.; senior pastor, New Birth Tabernacle of Praise. Qualifications: Community advocate for 30 years by way of the Tallahassee Urban League, the Florida Commission on Human Relations and the Florida Division of Emergency Management. Website: Rudyferguson.com. Q: What is the pivotal issue in this election? A: Public Safety. In the last couple of years, Tallahassee has unfortunately witnessed a concerning uptick in violent crime. Ensuring the safety and security of families must be a priority and action must be taken to address the issue head-on. My extensive experience working alongside law enforcement over the years has provided valuable insights into today's challenges in the fight against increasing violent crime in the community. I will continue to work with first responders, invest in youth outreach, support community-oriented policing strategies, build trust, and prioritize transparency and accountability. Q: If you can accomplish just one thing in office what would it be (be specific)? A: Over the last four years, our city government has faced significant challenges. However, we failed to work together. We may not agree on everything, but we must work together. I believe, by embracing civility, respect and collaboration, we can better represent the interests and values of the people. Once elected I will prioritize effective leadership, civility and collaboration to address community needs and build a brighter future for our children. To that end, I believe we can work on practical ordinances to help the business community, robust public investments in neighborhoods and effective crime prevention policies to quickly make a significant impact together. Jacqueline "Jack" Porter City Commissioner Jack Porter Age: 31 Profession: City commissioner Qualifications: Four years of compassionate, responsive leadership and more individual contributions than any other candidate. Masters in public administration and policy and in urban and regional planning. Website: Jackfortallahassee.com. Q: What is the pivotal issue in this election? A: Tallahassee has a choice. Are we going to be a city that's led by the public interest or a few special interest groups in town that have run this city for far too long? Our city simply isnt working for everyday people. Its not working for our neighborhoods that feel we dont have a say in how our city grows, its not working for residents sick of wasteful spending, and its not working for our most vulnerable neighbors who continue to see taxpayer resources squandered, with false promises that help is on the way. Q: If you can accomplish just one thing in office what would it be? A: If I could accomplish one thing in office, it would be that every person in Tallahassee has a place they call home where they can afford to live and live with dignity with access to food, healthcare, community resources, recreation and arts and meaningful high-paying job opportunities. Tallahassee Democrat, WFSU, League of Women Voters hold local candidate forums for 2024 primary. Here's how to watch. The ultimate Leon County, Tallahassee voter's guide to the 2024 primary election. Study up to vote with confidence Missed our voters guide to the Tallahassee primary? Subscribers can find the e-edition here This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Election 2024 voters' guide: Tallahassee City Commission, Seat 1 Tallahassee City Commission, Seat 2 Type of race: Non-partisan Who can vote: All registered voters in the city of Tallahassee What's next: A winner will be decided only if one candidate gets more than 50% of the vote. Otherwise, the top two vote-getters will go on to compete in the Nov. 5 general election. How much does this position pay: $45,288 CANDIDATES Dot Inman-Johnson Dot Inman-Johnson is running for City Commission Seat 2 in the 2024 election. Age: 77 Profession: Retired Qualifications: Past Tallahassee City Commissioner and Mayor, former educator, nonprofit executive director Website: dotfortallahassee.com Q: What steps would you specifically suggest to improve the collegiality at City Hall? A: Elect Dot. I have known all members of the Commission for many years, and have the maturity, institutional knowledge of City government, and ability to mend personal divisions and get the City focused on team work to solve the community's problems, Q: If you can accomplish just one thing in office what would it be? A: Use measurable objectives to decrease the 20% poverty rate. In doing so, we tackle income inequality, crime rate, improve jobs and economic opportunities for residents regardless of ZIP code. Donna Nyack Donna Nyack is running for City Commission Seat 2 in the 2024 election. Age: 59 Profession: Retired claims, disputes and appeals registered nurse Qualifications: As a patient and family advocate with 30 years of nursing experience, I am well equipped to address people's needs to promote quality living. Website: N/A Q: What steps would you specifically suggest to improve the collegiality at City Hall? A: My suggestions to help improve the collegiately at City Hall would include: Debriefing sessions, outside of the public arena, to address grievances, concerns, and learnings real-time. Encourage regular team building sessions to promote a more cohesive team mentality. Rotate the Chair role during the commission meetings to change the dynamics, share responsibility and keep everyone engaged. Increase social gathering opportunities with the goal of building stronger connections and improved communication. Bring in fresh perspectives who will provide new vision to the table. Q: If you can accomplish just one thing in office what would it be? A: If I could accomplish one thing in office, it would be to join forces with the citizens of this community to improve and enhance the standard of living for the people of Tallahassee. My priority would be to listen to resident concerns and then turn their voice" into actionable policy ideas. Additionally, I would use my platform as city commissioner to raise awareness and put a spotlight on the specific needs of the community in order to secure solutions and to help resolve complex problems. Curtis Richardson Curtis Richardson is running for reelection to City Commission Seat 2 in the 2024 election. Age: 67 Profession: City Commissioner Qualifications: I have been working in the public office sector for over 30 years in various capacities including elected office on the school board, Florida legislature, and City Commission. Website: curtisfortally.com Q: What steps would you specifically suggest to improve the collegiality at City Hall? A: To improve collegiality at City Hall, I would recommend fostering open communication and mutual respect among members. Drawing from my experience serving on three collegial bodies, I emphasize the importance of being amenable, cordial, and open-minded to differing perspectives. By focusing on collaboration and understanding, we can navigate disagreements constructively and make decisions that best serve the community. Prioritizing these principles will enhance our ability to work together effectively, ultimately benefiting the progression of our society. Q: If you can accomplish just one thing in office what would it be? A: If I could accomplish just one thing in office, it would be to significantly enhance the safety of all citizens across our community. Safety, in my view, extends beyond physical security; it encompasses ensuring access to affordable housing, quality healthcare, exceptional education, and fostering safe neighborhoods. By addressing these critical areas, we can create a comprehensive environment of safety and well-being for everyone in our community. Bernard Stevens Bernard Stevens is running for City Commission Seat 2 in the 2024 election. Age: 36 Profession: Restaurant General Manager Qualifications: Proven leadership skills, extensive experience with people, and track record of success. Strong background in public service, unwavering commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and strategic decision-making. Website: vote4bernardstevensjr.com Q: What steps would you specifically suggest to improve the collegiality at City Hall? A: To enhance collegiality at City Hall, I would propose the incorporation of consistent team-building activities aimed at nurturing stronger connections among staff members. By fostering transparent communication avenues like town hall meetings and suggestion boxes, a more collaborative and respectful workplace ethos can be cultivated. Introducing a mentorship initiative that pairs veteran employees with newcomers can further bolster a cohesive and aligned workforce dynamic. Additionally, coordinating interdepartmental collaborations and training workshops can encourage improved comprehension and synergy across various teams. In essence, focusing on mutual respect, efficient communication, and collaborative teamwork stands to notably elevate collegiality within City Hall. Q: If you can accomplish just one thing in office what would it be? A: As we delve into the realm of ensuring safety and security in our community, it becomes imperative to adopt an all-encompassing strategy that involves working closely with law enforcement, local community groups, and the inhabitants. Introducing measures like neighborhood surveillance schemes, heightened police presence and proactive community involvement can act as deterrents against criminal activities, thereby fostering a secure atmosphere for all residents. Moreover, allocating resources towards bolstering mental health services, youth initiatives and conflict resolution education can effectively target root causes of crime and violence. Through nurturing a sense of solidarity and empowerment among members of our community, we can collaboratively strive towards establishing a more protected and stable environment for all. CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story included an incorrect date for the November General Election. Breaking & trending news reporter Elena Barrera can be reached at ebarrera@tallahassee.com. Follow her on X: @elenabarreraaa. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Tallahassee City Commission Seat 2: Voters' guide to 2024 election Tallahassee Police Department recruits 13 new officers to the agency The faces of 13 new police officers beamed with pride and excitement inside the Tallahassee City Commission Chambers Tuesday morning. Police Chief Lawrence Revell welcomed the agency's newest recruits to an organization that is "fiercely loyal and committed" to supporting its members. "We are a family at TPD, and we have your back," Revell said. Around 11:15 a.m., TPD's latest class of officers all raised their right hands and swore to "support, protect and defend the Constitution and government of the United States, the state of Florida and the city of Tallahassee." "There's tremendous honor, pride and responsibility in wearing the uniform that you wear today," Revell said. The officers were then called up one by one with a family member or friend who they chose to pin their police badge on their chest. In addition to the new officers' loved ones, City Manager Reese Goad, Assistant City Managers Cynthia Barber, Wayne Tedder and Karen Jumonville, Mayor John Dailey, City Commissioner Curtis Richardson, City Treasurer Jim Cook and City Attorney Amy Toman were all in attendance. TPD has been actively seeking new officers after the city commission voted on a tax hike that would largely fund the salaries of 20 more officers, higher wages and technology for TPD. So far this year, the agency has hired 28 new officers this year. In January, TPD added 15 new officers to the force. Both recruiting classes brought law enforcement and military backgrounds to the table. Newest officer roll call Samantha Carranza Sierra Dabrowski Noah Hall Adam Hartin Jacob Hinds Robert Johnson Joel Mailly Maurice Moulton Wanessa Oliveira Adria Thames Antwan Whitehead Theodore Wilcox Garrett Zeigler Breaking & trending news reporter Elena Barrera can be reached at ebarrera@tallahassee.com. Follow her on X: @elenabarreraaa. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Tallahassee Police Department adds 13 new recruits Tarrant commissioner wants sheriff to explain how jail operates. He says theres no point A Tarrant County commissioner requested a briefing from the Sheriffs Office on standard operating procedures in the jail. Nobody from the Sheriffs Office showed up to deliver it. Instead Democrat Alisa Simmons, who requested the briefing be placed on Tuesdays agenda, grilled an empty lectern, asking questions she had written for Republican Sheriff Bill Waybourn. In July, KERA, citing operating procedures it had obtained, reported the jail had not updated restraint policies for over 15 years. Simmons referenced the article and added that even though she has requested the same documents, she hasnt received them. She said it seemed like the Sheriffs Offices policy was to not release anything. Fellow Democrat Commissioner Roy Brooks also voiced frustration with the Sheriffs Offices decision to not show up. We deserve, as a body, the right to be briefed on what they are, Brooks said. County Administrator Chandler Meritt who often speaks on behalf of the Sheriffs Office when no representatives show up read an email into the record he received from the Sheriffs Office 35 minutes before the start of the meeting. Our office is going to respectfully decline the public briefing regarding the Tarrant County Sheriffs Office Standard Operating Procedures, the email reads. The TCSO is heavily mandated by rules and regulations, not only by internal policies, but also the State of Texas. At this time, the Sheriffs Office is following guidelines of SOPs, The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, The Texas Commission on Jail Standards, The Texas Government Code, The Texas Occupation Code, The Code of Criminal Procedure and various Tarrant County policies. A public discussion of our policies and processes would not be productive or practical. The Tarrant County Sheriffs Office did not respond to a request for comment. Republican County Commissioner Manny Ramirez said he too was disappointed with the sheriffs decision not to publicize the offices policies and procedures. I would say that I agree with Commissioner Simmons that industrywide, in law enforcement, general orders, certain SOPs, not necessarily even specific, but general orders are publicly available. A lot of them are published on websites, Ramirez said. Before being elected a county commissioner, Ramirez served with the Fort Worth Police Department and headed the police union. I do think in this instance, radical transparency is probably the best policy, Ramirez said. So I would love to see the general orders published. Ramirez has called for more transparency from the Sheriffs Office multiple times since the April death of a man incarcerated in the jail. Waybourn and representatives from the Sheriffs Office have regularly declined to show up to commissioners court meetings since Anthony Johnson Jrs death. They appeared for two briefings at the May 21 Commissioners Court meeting. Johnsons sister Janell Johnson regularly speaks at Commissioners Court meetings. On Tuesday, she again asked for the public release of the full video showing her brothers death and aftermath. The portion released by the Sheriffs Office stops when Johnson appears to be non-responsive. This is why the sheriff wont release that tape. That tape will show you the 15 years of policy, Johnson said. The Texas Attorney Generals Office has ruled that Tarrant County may withhold the full video because of the ongoing investigation by the Texas Rangers. Read the latest in our coverage of the Tarrant County jail. The Tarrant County commissioners voted Tuesday to approve the hire of outside legal representation for two jailers listed as co-defendants in a lawsuit against the county by the family of a man killed in the county jail in April. The family of Anthony Johnson Jr. sued Tarrant County, jailers Rafael Moreno and Joel Garcia, and 10 unnamed detention officers in July. Johnson died after being pepper sprayed and having Moreno kneel on his back for around a minute and half during an altercation with guards. The vote was 4-1, with Precinct 2 Commissioner Alisa Simmons voting against. Moreno will be represented by Fort Worth attorney Kenneth E. East at an hourly rate of $280. Arlington attorney Jim Jeffrey will represent Garcia for $250 an hour. Each hiring was approved for up to $30,000, with other charges pending further approval by the county commissioners. East and Jeffrey declined to comment. Texas law allows the county commissioners to hire outside attorneys in the case that the complaint of a civil suit forms the basis of filing a criminal charge against county officials or employees. While she understood the law to require the county to employ attorneys for Moreno and Garcia in this lawsuit, Simmons told the Star-Telegram that she voted her conscience by opposing the other four on the court. My sensibilities wont let me vote for this, despite the statute, she said. Most all of us have viewed that portion of the video in which Anthony Johnson Jr. took his last breath and died while in restraint and under the knee of our jail staff. Calling the footage horrific, she said that Tarrant County Sheriff Bill Waybourn has already said that what the jailers did was wrong when he fired them. So were going to pay law firms two separate law firms to tell us that the decision we made to fire those two detention officers was not right, she said. Members of the public and Johnsons family spoke out against policies and executive failures that led to the county needing to hire attorneys for Moreno and Garcia. How many times have you voted for similar contracts like this in your tenure here? asked Nan Terry, a jail reform advocate with the Tarrant County Justice Network. Im not against the contracts, but Id like to ask each of you, what have you done to prevent another Anthony Johnsons death? Speaking after a briefing on jail standard operating procedures that Waybourn declined to attend, Johnsons sister Janell said that poor policy and a lack of will on the commissioners part to hold the Sheriffs Office accountable were the reasons the office has refused to release the full video of the altercation. The Sheriffs Office has denied the Johnon familys demands to release the full video. That 15 minute tape shows you exactly what this sheriff represents, the torture of my brother, Johnson said. Now, Tarrant County residents, youre going to be paying for the attorneys of the people who murdered my brother. Daryl Washington, the Dallas attorney representing the Johnson family in the lawsuit, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. CAMBRIDGE, N.H. (WPRI) A Taunton man was seriously injured in a UTV crash in New Hampshire over the weekend, according to the states Fish and Game Department. Jordan Marvel, 24, was riding a UTV, also known as a side-by-side vehicle, on the West Black Cambridge Mountain Trail Saturday evening when he lost control and crashed into a gravel pit. Officers determined Marvel accelerated rapidly while making a right turn in the gravel pit, causing the UTV to spiral and eventually flip over. Marvel was seriously injured and brought to Maine Medical Center via helicopter for treatment. Though the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation. The Fish and Game Department believe reckless driving, possible impairment and driving off the designated trail were likely factors. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. CROSSVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) A Crossville Police Department detective is facing an assault charge after he was accused of assaulting a person after interviewing him in June, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. The TBI said Detective Tyrel Lorenz was indicted on an assault charge on August 5. Bear cub rescued after mother hit by vehicle in the Smokies On June 17, the TBI was requested to investigate allegations made against a Crossville detective. The TBI said in a release that the detective was accused of assaulting a man after a criminal interview on June 3. He was taken to a local hospital where he was treated and released. During their investigation, the agents discovered that Lorenz used physical force while arresting the suspect, the TBI said. Following the indictment, Lorenz turned himself in at the Cumberland County Jail and was booked. He was later released on his own recognizance. Knoxville Police Department steps up recruiting efforts as city grows The TBI also emphasized that the allegations made are merely accusations and that Lorenz is presumed innocent until he is proven guilty. The Crossville Police Department said Lorenz has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the court proceedings. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side. Royall Elementary School in Florence, South Carolina. Several employees at the school were fired or placed on leave on August 1 after images of a staff event, meant to depict a cantina, showed staffers in US Border Patrol shirts standing in front of a fake border wall (Google Maps) Elementary school employees in South Carolina have been fired after they turned up wearing Border Patrol t-shirts to a staff event with a cantina theme. In photos posted to the Facebook page of Royall Elementary School in Florence, staffers posed in uniform-like t-shirts and sunglasses in front of a fake border wall that appeared to have been constructed for the event. Other employees were pictured wearing brightly-colored sombreros. The photos were posted on July 31 but quickly taken down. The school issued an apology on August 1 saying the images showed an "insensitive disregard for the current challenges our Hispanic population faces." "At Royall, we take great pride in our long-standing tradition of embracing and supporting every student who walks through the doors of our building," the post said. "Our staff is unanimously committed to celebrating the diversity of our families and ensuring that each and every student at Royall is successful, happy, and recognized for his or her unique culture and abilities. We apologize for our insensitivity but look forward to fostering relationships as we begin a new school year." The incident resulted in the firing of at least two employees, according to a letter from the schools superintendent to parents. Royall Elementary School in Florence, South Carolina. Several employees at the school were fired or placed on leave on August 1 after images of a staff event, meant to depict a cantina, showed staffers in US Border Patrol shirts standing in front of a fake border wall (Google Maps) Florence One Schools Superintendent Richard O'Malley wrote to parents saying that "several employees are no longer employed by the district or have been placed on leave" over the incident. As superintendent, I will not tolerate anything of this nature in our school district, he wrote. According to O'Malley, the "inappropriate event" took place on professional development day, the day before the first day of school. "I want to assure the Royall Community that the school will continue to provide an exceptional education for all students, with the high expectations and excellence in student achievement that have always been provided by our staff at Royall," he added. The superintendent put two "acting administrators" in charge of the school following the incident. The Independent has sought further information from Florence One Schools. Annette Fling, whose children attend Royall Elementary, told WMBF she found the photos inappropriate. I was pretty furious. I was upset, offended. Its disheartening. Its sad because you feel like were all equal, you try to live like that and something like this is thrown in your face. Its almost like youre a joke," she said. Florence's Democratic Party Chairman Isaac Wilson condemned the image, posting a comment below the photos on Facebook, which have since been taken down. I am appalled by the images shared by educated professionals, but I am more disappointed that someone thought that this tasteless display was representative of Mexican culture, Wilson said. In a time where we should be bringing communities together to solve issues that chronically challenge us, like racism and bigotry, this type of tone-deaf behavior cannot be tolerated. James Johnson III, CEO and founder of the Racial Justice Network, issued a statement saying that the only thing the school would gain from sharing the photos would be to push Former President Trumps agenda. A picture was posted in which staff were wearing shirts that read, US. Border Patrol, were wearing sombreros, and had a hand made brick wall behind them. There was a lot of work, time, effort, and thought put into this display, Johnson wrote. There was no regard for the students and how some would feel and what message they were sending to others. Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg speaks during a press conference regarding corruption in Lina Hidalgos staff at the Harris County Criminal Justice Center on Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Houston. Credit: Annie Mulligan for The Texas Tribune Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg, a Democrat who has been on the outs with her party in recent years, is endorsing U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz over his Democratic challenger, U.S. Rep. Colin Allred, according to the GOP senators campaign. Ogg is set to announce her support at a Tuesday evening campaign rally with Cruz, who is vying for a third Senate term in November against Allred, D-Dallas. It is perhaps Oggs sharpest break yet from her party after several years of escalating strife with local Democratic leaders, culminating in her landslide defeat in the March primary. In a statement shared with The Texas Tribune, Ogg pointed to her and Cruz's mutual interest in cracking down on violent crime, which she said is "bigger than partisanship." She also noted that Cruz recently sought her support for his legislation aimed at keeping migrants in custody if detention beds are available a proposal sparked by the killing of a 12-year-old Houston girl who authorities say was murdered by two Venezuelan migrants who entered the country illegally. "I am endorsing Senator Ted Cruz because he has taken action at a time when Americans want solutions, not excuses about why Democrats and Republicans wont work together," said Ogg, who in recent weeks penned an op-ed with Cruz and appeared with him at a press conference to promote his bill. Ogg, the top prosecutor in Texas' biggest county, is the most prominent Democrat yet to endorse Cruz, who made his name as a tea party firebrand but has sought to emphasize his bipartisan bona fides ahead of November. Earlier this year, Cruz launched a group, Democrats for Cruz, to spotlight his work across the aisle on Texas-specific issues that typically fly under the national radar. For one, Cruz has touted his effort with U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo, to streamline the permitting process for bridges used to cross the Texas-Mexico border to encourage international trade. But Ogg's stamp of approval is unlikely to move most Democrats in Harris County. She won just 25% of the March primary vote against one of her former prosecutors, Sean Teare, who charged his former boss with abandoning her reformist principles an argument she hotly disputes. Oggs relations with much of the party began to unravel in 2019, when she opposed Harris Countys watershed bail reform deal, aimed at preventing most poor misdemeanor defendants from awaiting trial behind bars because they couldnt afford to pay cash bail. She also has repeatedly sparred with Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, at first butting heads with the fellow Democrat over funding for new prosecutors. Later, Ogg spearheaded an investigation that led to the indictment of three Hidalgo aides. Ogg hired the Texas Republican Partys general counsel to do extensive work on the case, the Houston Chronicle reported, fueling speculation among some Democrats that Ogg was pursuing a political vendetta, as Hidalgo claimed. Democratic precinct chairs formally admonished Ogg last December, passing a resolution that alleged she had sided with Republicans to advance their extremist agenda, and stood in the way of fixing the broken criminal justice system." Ogg said the resolution was rooted in misinformation. First elected in 2016 with the backing of liberal megadonor George Soros, Ogg insists she has stuck with her progressive pledge to divert low-level drug offenders from jail only rankling fellow Democrats, she argues, over her opposition to pretrial release for defendants accused of violent crimes. In any case, Cruz is hoping Ogg's endorsement could help peel off even a fraction of the centrist Democrats and independents who backed Ogg or who favor a stricter approach to crime than mainstream Democrats. Monique Alcala, executive director of the Texas Democratic Party, said in a statement that voters would reject Cruz's "failed rebrand attempt." Because of Kim Oggs divisive tenure as DA, Harris County voters resoundingly rejected her by 50 points," Alcala said. "Everyone knows that outside of an election year, Ted Cruz has no real interest in working with both parties." Cruz also touted the endorsements Tuesday of several Democratic county judges, sheriffs and constables from rural counties along or near the border, newly added to his Democrats for Cruz group. Reeves County Judge Leo Hung blamed national Democrats for inciting a spike in migrant crossings at the southern border and said he was endorsing Cruz over the senators efforts to secure the border. In a statement, Cruz said the Democratic officials were supporting him because "they know that Colin Allred's radical progressive policies, whether on the border, public safety, or economy, will push Texas back, not forward." Allred, for his part, has leaned into immigration and border politics more than most Democrats, voicing support for a mix of security-minded policies and changes addressing legal immigration and the status of undocumented people in the U.S. The Dallas Democrat released a new TV ad last week in which he says he is working with both parties to finally secure the border and add more Border Patrol agents, crack down on fentanyl and human trafficking, and get tough with the cartels. Allred has also disputed that Cruz is willing to work in a bipartisan fashion, frequently branding him as a leading obstructionist to bipartisan immigration reform efforts. The full program is now LIVE for the 2024 Texas Tribune Festival, happening Sept. 57 in downtown Austin. Explore the program featuring more than 100 unforgettable conversations on topics covering education, the economy, Texas and national politics, criminal justice, the border, the 2024 elections and so much more. See the full program. Teen surrenders to deputies, is charged with murder of 20-year-old in Macon A teen is charged with murder in connection with an Aug. 1 shooting in Macon. Cris Yair Blanco, 17, met investigators at the sheriffs investigations office Monday to surrender in the case. Investigators interviewed Blanco regarding the shooting and death of Gabreon Tyrese Harrison, 20, that occurred in a home on Thursday in the 2400 block of Holland Drive, according to a county press release. Blanco was charged with murder and taken to the Bibb County Jail, where he is held without bond. The incident is under investigation, and anyone with information was urged to contact the sheriffs office at 478-751-7500, or Macon Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-877-68CRIME. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) The Tehachapi Police Department hosts a celebration tonight for the community. Tehachapi Night Out runs from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Philip Marx Central Park. Condors Big Mac Six Pack offers deal on six-game package Previously known as National Night Out, the rebranded event includes a coloring contest for children, a bike rodeo, lots of photo opportunities, police cars and fire trucks for children to explore, food and a glowstick walk. A free showing of Shrek, courtesy of Tehachapi Valley Recreation and Park District finishes up the event, complete with ogres, a dragon and a donkey. Never miss a story: Make KGET.com your homepage Tehachapi Police staff will be on hand to meet and connect with Tehachapi folks, along with other law enforcement personnel and first responders from the Kern County Fire Department, Kern County Sheriffs Office, California Highway Patrol and California Corrections and Rehabilitation Department. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17. Drier air is moving into New Mexico to start the week. Temperatures will be heating up across the state through the middle of the week. Its a drier start to the week with isolated to scattered showers and storms mainly in western and northern New Mexico Monday afternoon. An isolated storm brought heavy rain to the Albuquerque Foothills today. A few, very isolated storms, are still moving through New Mexico tonight, but will be ending in the next few hours. Its also been a hot afternoon, with highs in the 90s from southwest Colorado to southern New Mexico. Temperatures will continue a warming trend through Wednesday afternoon, when highs will climb into the 90s and triple-digits. The Albuquerque Metro will flirt with 100 on Wednesday, while Roswell will climb to 105. Afternoon storm chances through Wednesday will mainly be in northwest and northern New Mexico, with spotty storms down in the Gila. A backdoor cold front will move into New Mexico Thursday. This front will bring an increase in moisture into the northeastern part of the state, bringing a higher chance for rain and thunderstorms here. Elsewhere, rain chances will increase as well as the cold front sweeps across the state. It will bring a slight drop in temperatures on Thursday, but it will still be warmer than normal for most areas. Heavy rain will be possible Thursday and Friday in northern New Mexico, along the Colorado state line. Isolated to scattered afternoon storm chances will continue into early next week across parts of New Mexico as temperatures start heating up again this weekend. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) While many people know who the current vice president is, did you know two people from Tennessee have served in the role throughout the countrys history? This week is the week for vice presidents, following the announcement that current Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen her running mate for November. Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to be her VP. Friday, Aug. 9, is celebrated as National Veep Day, a day to honor the legacy of the second in command of the United States. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts The day just so happens to be the day Vice President Gerald Ford officially became President of the United States, upon the resignation of President Richard Nixon following the Watergate scandal. Nixon resigned from office Aug. 9, 1974, with Ford immediately succeeding. Tennessee can claim two vice presidents, one of whom also served as president. Andrew Johnson President Andrew Johnson (Source: Library of Congress; Matthew B. Brady photo) Although born in North Carolina, Johnson moved to East Tennessee by the time he was 18 years old, marrying Eliza McCardle and opening a tailor shop in Greeneville. According to the White House Historical Association, Johnson was an adept stump speaker and was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate in the 1840s and 50s. During the secession crisis in the 1860s, Johnson remained in the Senate, marking him a traitor in the eyes of most of the South. He was appointed as Military Governor of Tennessee in 1862 by President Lincoln. During this time, Johnson used the state as a laboratory for reconstruction, according to the White House. By 1864, the Republican Party nominated him as vice president to Lincolns second term. Johnson succeeded Lincoln after the presidents assassination in Fords Theatre in 1865. He served only that term, from 1865 to 1869. During his presidency, he was impeached for dismissing Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton in violation of laws passed restricting presidential powers. He was tried by the Senate in the spring of 1868 and acquitted by a single vote, according to the White House. | Check out more lists and rankings from across Tennessee He returned to the Senate in 1875, but died after suffering a series of strokes. He was buried in Greeneville. His burial site and the tailors shop he opened are now part of the Andrew Johnson National Historical Site. Al Gore 2000: This picture was taken when Bob interviewed Al Gore a week before the 2000 Election (WKRN File Photo) Tennessees other claim to vice presidential fame comes in the form of Al Gore, who served as vice president under President Bill Clinton for two terms in the 1990s. Though born in Washington, D.C., Gore spent his summers in Carthage, and considers himself a native Tennessean. Gore served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1976-1983, then in the Senate from 1984-1993, when he was inaugurated as the 45th vice president with Clinton. During his time as vice president, Gore was key in promoting the development in information technology, leading in part to the success of the dot-com boom in the late 1990s. The term information superhighway is attributed in part to Gore. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Gore was also a champion of environmental issues during his vice presidency, a cause he is still passionate about to this day. According to his official website, Gore is the founder and chairman of The Climate Reality Project, a nonprofit organization devoted to solving the climate crisis. He is also a founding partner and chairman of Generation Investment Management and a co-founder of Climate TRACE. In 2006, Gore discussed the dangers of climate change in the documentary An Inconvenient Truth, which won an Academy Award for best documentary. He was later awarded the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for informing the world of the dangers posed by climate change. Unlike Johnson, Gore did not serve a presidential term, being defeated by George W. Bush and Dick Cheney in the controversial 2000 election. Despite winning the popular vote, Gore narrowly lost the electoral college to Bush in 2000 with the 5-4 Supreme Court decision in Bush v. Gore. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. On Friday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced that he had ordered "adjustments" to the U.S. military presence in the Middle East in response to Iranian threats that come in the wake of Israel's killing of a Hamas leader in Tehran. The USS Abraham Lincoln strike group -- which was already slated to deploy -- was ordered to move to the region and replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt strike group. It is not clear when the Lincoln will arrive in the area as it just pulled into Guam for a port visit Sunday. While the decision does not mean that sailors who are part of that strike group will be away from their families longer than expected, it does place them in the middle of escalating tensions as the violence in Gaza and Israel has begun to radiate to nearby countries. Read Next: National Guard Chief, VA Benefits Fix, Military Pay Raise: Here's What's Still on Congress' To-Do List as Recess Starts Meanwhile, a Navy official also told Military.com that two of the five destroyers sailing with the USS Theodore Roosevelt -- the USS Laboon and USS Cole -- have been ordered to move to the Red Sea and toward Israel. That strike group is sailing near Iran in the Gulf of Oman, the Navy official confirmed Monday. The service also has had the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, or ARG, which includes the USS Wasp, the USS Oak Hill and the USS New York, as well as the destroyers USS Roosevelt and USS Bulkeley, in the eastern Mediterranean since before Austin's announcement. Tensions in the region have been simmering since Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a brutal and surprise strike against Israel that left more than a thousand Israelis dead and hundreds taken hostage. Talks for a cease-fire and hostage release had been making progress but last week, following a missile strike attributed to Hezbollah in Lebanon, Israel conducted an airstrike in Beirut that killed a senior commander. The next day, Israel assassinated a top Hamas leader in Tehran. Those two actions prompted Iran and its allies to meet to discuss retaliation near the end of last week, according to Reuters. The U.S. State Department issued a "do not travel" advisory for Lebanon last Wednesday, citing "rising tensions between Hizballah [sic] and Israel." The U.K. government urged its citizens to leave the country "while commercial options remain available." The Wasp ARG includes roughly 2,200 Marines as part of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, the service said in response to a list of questions on Monday. Their mission is to "deter the war between Hamas and Israel from becoming a broader regional conflict," a Marine Corps headquarters spokesperson said. Pentagon officials wouldn't weigh in on the question of whether the USS Wasp and the Marines aboard the ship were planning on evacuating civilians out of Lebanon. Marine Expeditionary Units, or MEUs, are trained to execute several mission types, including noncombatant evacuation operations. In 2006, the 24th MEU evacuated roughly 15,000 American citizens from Lebanon, according to the unit's website, dubbing it one of the largest overseas evacuation operations "in recent history." Marine Corps officials would not comment on how long the Marines will be deployed or where exactly they are deploying to. In June, the 24th MEU gained a special operations-capable designation, meaning its troops trained on their ability to support special operations personnel and their missions. It is the second SOC-designated MEU, following the 26th MEU, which gained the extra nomenclature in 2023. The 26th MEU, also out of Lejeune, recently returned from an extended deployment along with the Bataan ARG to the region in support of the deterrence mission there. "The Marines are needed for this type of mission because they are trained in various types of mission sets," a Marine Corps headquarters spokesperson said in response to Friday's announcement when asked about it by Military.com. "Amphibious warfare ships with embarked Marines are the only tool in the U.S. arsenal that can strengthen our relationships with allies and partners across all domains while being capable of rapidly transitioning to crisis or conflict." Spokeswoman Sabrina Singh told reporters Monday that, while the Pentagon is "a planning organization," she would not "go into details on every type of scenario and plan that has been laid out." On Friday, the Pentagon also announced in an emailed statement that it was "taking steps to increase our readiness to deploy additional land-based ballistic missile defense" and that Austin "has also ordered the deployment of an additional fighter squadron to the Middle East, reinforcing our defensive air support capability." However, officials would not offer any details on what units were taking part in those deployments. Singh told reporters Friday that she was "not aware that any units have been put on [prepare to deploy] orders at this time." Related: Marines, Navy's Bataan Group Officially Get Extended Deployment in Mediterranean Amid Middle East Turmoil TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO-WAWV) During an appearance on WAWV-WTWO, Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakbun talked about several issues and programs. He provided some details about about the newly formed Mayors Youth Council, the upcoming Metropolitan Transportation plan, development along Terre Hautes riverfront and the singing janitor: Richard Goodall as he heads off to Hollywood to compete on Americas Got Talent. The full interview is posted above. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyWabashValley.com. Elon Musk yesterday asked the Prime Minister on X, formerly known as Twitter, Why arent all communities protected in Britain? Sir Keirs response to questions about policing the riots must be clear: that the law will be applied without fear or favour, regardless of where violence and disruption to public order arise and from whom the threat comes. But that does not mean we need to resort to knee-jerk responses. Stephen Parkinson, the Director of Public Prosecutions, has stated that those involved in organising disorder and rioting could be charged with terror offences. Mr Parkinson argues, Where you have organised groups planning activity for the purposes of advancing [an] ideology planning really, really serious disruption then, yes, we will consider terrorism offences. We should think carefully before invoking anti-terrorism powers to deal with the disorder that has besmirched English towns over recent days. The Terrorism Act gives police the power to hold a suspect for up to 14 days without charge, as opposed to the standard 24 hours (extendable to 36 hours, or 96 hours with the approval of a Magistrates Court). The Acts draconian provisions are only rarely used; they are designed to counter the most serious, violent and organised threats. Of the 169 arrests for terrorist-related activity in the year ending March 31 2023, only 25 were under the Act. It is probably true that the attacks on hotels housing asylum seekers could be classed as terrorism, but that is because the provisions of the Act are drawn very broadly. Serious damage to property or violence against a person when designed to influence the Government or intimidate the public for a political, religious, racial or ideological cause can be so defined. By this definition, terrorism powers could probably also be invoked against the Palestinian-flag-waving, balaclava-wearing gang who surrounded and stormed a pub in Birmingham on Monday night. But in the vast majority of cases, the polices extensive powers are more than adequate for dealing with such lawbreaking. Do we really want to ratchet up the instances in which we use the states most extreme powers? Deeming something to be an act of terrorism cannot just be a way for us to say that we do not approve of a groups actions or motives. However despicable we find what the mob was doing outside those hotels and it was despicable if the police can bring perpetrators to justice using ordinary laws, then this is what should be happening. The extraordinary anti-terrorism powers should only be invoked where there is no alternative. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Montana, speaks about a failed vote for toxic burn pit exposures in the United States Senate on July 27, 2022 (Photo by Jennifer Shutt of States Newsroom). As Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Tester tries to fend off Republican challenger Tim Sheehy this November in a state former President Donald Trump won handily the past two elections, Testers team is trying to reach swing and crossover voters by showing Montanans there are Republicans who want the Democrat in office for a fourth term. The Tester campaign on Tuesday morning launched Republicans for Tester, a group of more than 100 Republicans to start that include former and Republican National Committee chairperson Gov. Mark Racicot, former Secretary of State Bob Brown, former Great Falls Mayor Mike Winters, and others including former state lawmakers, GOP party chairs, county commissioners and city council members. Montana will always come first for me and I will take on anyone, from any party, to defend our state, Tester said in a statement. Im honored to have the support of Montana Republicans who have stood with me to fight for our veterans, protect our freedoms, and keep the government out of our personal lives. Former Republican Montana Gov. Marc Racicot speaks at a rally to protect the Montanan Constitution on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023. Since Tester was last re-elected in 2018, Montana has at large voted further to the right, as Republicans took hold of every other statewide elected office and put a Republican supermajority in the Legislature in the 2022 election. Trump has won Montana in the last two elections by 16% and 20%, but Tester hopes to win over Republicans and independents and take home the largest share of independent voters this year, and the campaign believes showing those voters there are people who will break party lines and vote for Tester will encourage more to do the same. Polls in recent months have generally showed Tester and Sheehy, who resigned from his Bozeman-based aerial firefighting company Bridger Aerospace this summer to focus on the campaign, statistically tied. Tester has far outraised Sheehy so far during the campaign, having brought in $43.7 million so far this campaign compared to Sheehys $13.7 million, and Tester started July with $10.8 million in cash, while Sheehy had $3.2 million. Sheehy was hand-picked by National Republican Senatorial Committee Chair Steve Daines, a U.S. senator also from Montana, to run against Tester, and has received the backing of most of Montanas top Republicans. Tester and other Democratic senators in vulnerable seats up for re-election this year, like Ohio Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown, have been vocal when they oppose President Joe Bidens policies and have spent part of the campaign distancing themselves from those, especially on border and energy policies. Tester has also been one of few Democrats on the Hill not to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for president after Biden dropped out of the race. But Sheehy and political action groups have been running ads consistently tying Tester to Biden and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., calling him out of line with Montanans and a lock-step Democratic voter, aiming to convince Montanans Tester is an extreme liberal rather than a moderate. And Trump is making his first Montana visit of 2024 on Friday, in which he and Sheehy will campaign together in Bozeman. A similar but unaffiliated Republicans for Harris campaign is underway as of last weekend as she seeks to court moderate and conservative voters disenfranchised with Trump as well. U.S. Sen. Jon Tester (D-Montana) announces a $10 million RAISE Grant for East Helena on June 21, 2024. (Photo by Blair Miller, Daily Montanan) In statements, the co-chairs of the Republicans for Tester group, which includes former lawmakers, veterans, and local representatives, said they trust the longterm Montana politician, who also served in the Legislature and on the local school board. Bob Brown, the former secretary of state, said hed known Tester for nearly 30 years and called him a Montanan through and through. He will always stand up to his party to do whats right for the state, Brown said. I served as Montanas Republican Secretary of State and I know what our state needs. I trust Jon to keep fighting to secure the border, help our veterans, and relentlessly defend our Second Amendment rights. Wade Jones, chairperson of the Milk River Joint Board of Control and a Malta farmer, said he was supporting Tester because he was the only politician to bring dollars to help modernize the recently ruptured St. Marys Irrigation System to the area. Former Great Falls Mayor Mike Winters said hes backing the Democrat as well. I may not always see eye to eye with Jon on every issue, but I know hell always talk straight with me and hes proven that he will always fight for Montanas best interest, Winters said. Mike Shepard, a veteran and Columbia Falls city council member, said Tester has repeatedly passed laws to help veterans, and he is the only member of our delegation fighting day in and day out for Montana veterans. Racicot said he too had known Tester for nearly 30 years and praised Testers work with people of all parties and walks of life. Not unexpectedly, it has always been people, not parties, who have come first with Jon Tester, Racicot said. Im proud to support our senior senator because Im absolutely confident hell continue to protect and defend our liberty and our Montana way of life. Tester said in a statement he wants to continue to represent Montana in that same fashion, which is how he said he has gone about his work as a senator since he first was elected in 2006. Montanans didnt send me to Washington to play politics, they sent me to deliver results and together were going to win this election and keep fighting to keep Montana strong. Editors note: This story has been updated to clarify the Republicans for Harris campaign is not affiliated with the Tester group and that Tester has not endorsed Harris. The Republicans for Tester co-chairs Former Montana Governor and RNC Chairman Marc Racicot Missoula Former Montana Secretary of State Bob Brown Whitefish Former State Legislator Mallerie Stromswold Billings Former Great Falls Mayor Mike Winters Great Falls Columbia Falls City Councilor Mike Shepard Columbia Falls Former George W. Bush appointee Mick Ringsak Butte Vietnam Veteran Terry Baker Kalispell State Sen. Terry Vermeire Anaconda Fort Peck Town Council Member Justin Schaaf Fort Peck Former Gallatin County Commissioner Don Seifert Bozeman Chairman of the Joint Board of Control Wade I. Jones Malta Former State Legislator Dan Hurwitz Clyde Park Former Montana Republican Party Chairperson Susan Good-Geise Augusta Fort Belknap Tribal Councilwoman Patty Quisno Harlem Former Fort Belknap Tribal Councilman Warren Morin Hays Former Montana State Senate GOP Chief of Staff Chuck Butler Helena Texas Children's Hospital opened its Austin hospital location in February. The hospital system has laid off 5% of its workforce around the system in part because of the delay in opening the Austin hospital. Texas Children's Hospital on Tuesday announced layoffs that affected 5% of its staff systemwide. It would not comment on how many of those staff members were in the Austin area or what kinds of positions were affected. The No. 3 children's hospital in the country, according to U.S. News & World report, has been expanding in Central Texas since 2018 starting with urgent care, specialty care clinics and then buying pediatric offices. It now has 21 clinics in the Austin area and a women's center. This year, it opened its first hospital outside of the Houston area in North Austin. The $485 million, 365,000-square-foot hospital at 9835 N. Lake Creek Parkway in Northwest Austin near U.S. 183 and Texas 45 also has a medical office building attached. The hospital in Austin was expected to employ 1,100 people, including physicians. Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources officer Linda Aldred told the Houston Chronicle that Texas Childrens has approximately 20,000 employees around the world. A 5% reduction in that workforce would cut roughly 1,000 jobs. She told the Chronicle that a two-week delay in the opening of the Austin hospital and lower than expected volume of patients in Houston were factors in the $200 million income loss in the first six months of its fiscal year. Read more: First look: Inside the new Texas Children's Hospital in Austin opening in February At that hospital's opening, CEO Mark A. Wallace said more growth would be coming, including a South Austin hospital at Interstate 35 and Puryear Road in coming years. The decision to enter the Austin market came after looking at Austins growth trends and the number of Central Texas patients traveling to Texas Childrens in Houston for care, he said. It has been a longtime goal of mine to continue the incredible mission of our founders and expand access to Texas Childrens high-quality level of care to families throughout Texas, Wallace said in February. As we celebrate our 70th anniversary as an organization, we are looking forward to serving even more children and women with one of the most elite clinical teams in the world. Texas Children's has not said if those plans would be curtailed or delayed with the news of the layoffs. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas Children's Hospital lays off 5% of workforce In Reality Check stories, Star-Telegram journalists dig deeper into questions over facts, consequences and accountability. Read more. Story idea? RealityCheck@star-telegram.com. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is sounding alarms over the immigration and border security policies of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz after he was tapped as Democratic nominee Kamala Harris vice presidential pick. Vice President Harris, who on Monday officially secured the Democratic presidential nomination after President Joe Bidens exit from the race, announced Walz as her running mate on Tuesday. Soon after, Abbott, a Republican who has endorsed former President Donald Trump for president, warned that a Harris-Walz ticket would be the most radical and dangerous administration in modern history. A statement from Abbott included criticisms of a Harris-Walz ticket that spanned multiple policy areas, including border security and immigration. Tim Walz will be a rubberstamp for Kamala Harris deadly open border policies, refusing to admit there is a border crisis, opposing border wall funding, and supporting sanctuary cities, Abbott said. In a separate post on X, Abbott said Harris supports free health care to illegal immigrants, and Walz signed laws giving state services to them. Both provide magnets for more illegal immigration, said Abbott. So whats Walzs record on the border and immigration? Health care for people living in the U.S. illegally PolitiFact found a similar statement from Trump that Harris endorsed free taxpayer-funded government health care for all illegal aliens mostly false. Abbotts post on X did not outline specific state services offered to people living in the country illegally and a spokesperson did not immediately return an email seeking comment. But, Walz has signed a law extending a health insurance program for low income Minnesotans, MinnesotaCare, to those with undocumented status, according to MPR News. A spokesperson for Walzs office did not immediately return requests for comment. Here's what else we've Reality Checked: Is AI 'manipulating' your thermostat? Are American Airlines flight attendants really going to strike? True or false: Snakes can swim up your toilet A border crisis? To back up his claim that Walz will not admit theres a border crisis, Abbott shared a clip of an interview Walz gave on Meet the Press. In it, Walz is asked if he thinks what is happening on the border is a crisis. In the clip, he doesnt directly call the situation at the border a crisis. Well, I think it could be fixed, Walz said. I think crisis is, you know, we certainly have these I dont want people living outside Minnesota right now. I think theres the humanity piece of this, and then theres the right that every sovereign nation has a right to control its borders, as we should. More could be done, but theyre doing nothing. Congress is doing nothing. The president is asking for more aid for border patrol. Not getting it. Pressed if he thinks the border is secure, Walz said, I think the border with the folks who do the work down there are doing a great job. Could we do better. Absolutely. In an interview on The Ezra Klein Show published Aug. 2 Walz was more explicit when the subject of immigration came up. Democrats dismiss the issue, he said. When theyre asked is it a crisis, you need to answer, Yes, its a crisis, and then deal with it, Walz said. Walz expressed support fora compromise border security bill that was previously offered by Arizona Sen. Krysten Sinema, a Democrat, and Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford, a Republican. Also discussed was Texas busing of migrants. Abbott has sent thousands of migrants to sanctuaries cities across the country as part of a program that transports migrants who enter Texas illegally out of the state. I dont disagree that Gov. Abbott is pointing out some of these things, but he treats it in the most cruel, inhumane way, Walz said in the Ezra Klein interview. Soon adding, This is where we should reach out and say, The governors not wrong. They need help. Texas shouldnt by itself absorb or pay for this problem, he said. We should all collectively figure out how to do it, and that was Lankford-Sinema, and Donald Trump didnt want it. Walz later added that, not acknowledging that immigration is a problem is bad politically for Democrats. Just acknowledge it is, Walz said. Youre not denigrating anyone, and youre not helping them being the immigrants by saying its not a problem. Because they know better than anybody its a problem. Because theyre stuck at a border community with nowhere to go. Does Walz support building a border wall? Abbott pointed to a March 2018 post on X, called Twitter at the time, to support his assertion that Walsh opposes border wall funding. Walz, responding to a Washington Post report that Trump was privately pushing the U.S. military to fund a border wall, said, I thought President Trumps military parade idea was the stupidest thing Ive ever heard. I was wrong. Taking money we could use to give our warriors better pay in order to build his ridiculous wall is way stupider. Walz favors securing the border through other means, according to a recent interview with CNNs Anderson Cooper. In the interview, Walz quipped that when Trump talks about a border wall, I always say, let me know how high it is. If its 25 feet, then Ill invest in the 30 foot ladder factory. Thats not how you stop this, he said. You stop this using electronics. You stop it using more border control agents, and you stop it by having a legal system that allows for that tradition of allowing folks to come here just like my relatives did to come here, be able to work and establish the American dream. Hes not interested in that. He wants to demonize. In his interview on The Ezra Klein Show, he said of building a border wall: Thats just so visceral that thats going to keep people out. Does Walz support sanctuary cities? Sanctuary policies generally refer to those that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. This can be done by not reporting immigration status or limiting immigration detainers. In a 2018 interview with a Minneapolis TV station that was linked in Abbotts Tuesday statement, Walz said he supports Minnesota being a sanctuary state if the definition of that is that the federal government enforces immigration law, and local law enforcement enforces local law. Should cities be allowed to be sanctuary cities? Yes, local control, he said. Texas man sentenced to 40 years in prison for brutal murder of newlywed wife Anggy Diaz and Jared Dicus married in October 2022. Just a few months later, Dicus brutally murdered Diaz. A Texas man has been sentenced to four decades in prison after brutally murdering his wife, just months after the couple married. District Court Judge Gary Chaney sentenced Jared James Dicus, 23, to 40 years behind bars after he pleaded guilty to brutally murdering his wife, Anggy Diaz, 21, last year, the Waller County District Attorney's Office reported. The trial concluded on July 31st. The couple had married in October 2022, mere months before the heinous crime. People are also reading: Hays County sheriff's office: No arrests made in fatal shooting in Buda subdivision 'A gruesome scene': Anggy Diaz decapitated, dismembered According to the Waller County Sheriff's Office, on the day of the Jan. 11, 2023 killing, Discus parents called 911 to report a death on their property in a small cabin behind their home near Magnolia, a city about 45 miles northwest of downtown Houston. Waller County police responded to the property and discovered a horrific scene. A few days after the discovery, Sheriff Troy Guidry described finding Diaz dead, decapitated and dismembered. She appeared to have been stabbed multiple times with a kitchen knife. "A portion of the body was dismembered, and the residence was covered in blood. Gruesome scene at best," Guidry said in a press conference following the murder. Dicus was detained at the scene, according to a release. When detectives arrived, Discus admitted he killed his wife. Officers arrested Dicus on a murder charge and booked him into the local jail. Dicus' motive for murdering wife remains undisclosed A motive in the killing was not released by police, but prosecutors said during the pre-trial phase of the case, "potential mental health issues were raised regarding the Defendants competency to stand trial." But after a court-ordered examination for competency Discus was deemed competent. Police responded to reports of domestic violence at the home of Jared Dicus and Anggy Diaz prior to Dicus killing Diaz. History of domestic violence Two months before Dicus murdered his wife, he was arrested on a DWI charge. Court records show Dicus threatened a police officer and staff at the local jail. After punching windows, he was placed in a restraint chair. Local deputies had also responded to the same property more than once for reports of domestic violence, Sheriff Guidry said during a press conference last January. Dicus' bond was initially set for $500,000, but District Attorney Sean G. Whittmore argued for a $1M bond shortly after the murder. The DA cited Dicus' violent history and the seriousness of his latest crime, and a Waller County judge agreed and raised the bond to $1M. Dicus not eligible for parole until 2043 Due to the aggravated nature of the offense, prosecutors said Dicus is not eligible for parole until 2043 at the earliest. Waller County does not tolerate domestic violence," Waller County Criminal District Attorney Sean Whittmore said in a statement. "Heinous crimes like this one will not go unanswered, we will seek justice for the victims of domestic violence and send a message to the perpetrators that here, we fight for our victims." This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas man sentenced to 40 years in prison for killing newlywed wife Gold ATMs, anyone? Chinese jewelry company Kinghood Group has rolled out automated gold exchange machines in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, which recently went online in the coastal city in South China. These machines collect a variety of items made of the precious metal, weighing anywhere between 3 grams and 1 kilogram, including gold bars, jewelry and K-gold, irrespective of brand or make. "The system evaluates the gold purity, weight and price within three minutes, and completes the melting inspection and fund transfer process in just 30 minutes, thereby creating an efficient and closed-loop gold trading process," said Xiao Yingjie, brand general manager of Kinghood in Shenzhen. Following the machine's national launch in June, Kinghood debuted its global version at the 2024 China Gold Congress and Expo in Shanghai, a top event for the sector, over the weekend. The machine has special functionalities that allow it to cater to global norms and payment systems. "It will integrate with local physical gold trading markets, gold prices and third-party payment platforms to facilitate settlements in all major global currencies. Additionally, tailored development tools will be provided to customers based on different country-specific languages, common measurement units and legal regulations," Xiao said. At its debut during the expo, Neil Harby, chief technical officer of the London Bullion Market Association, commended the machine for its swift processing time. Exhibitors from Russia and Singapore have also expressed their interest in the machine. So far, these "gold ATMs" have been launched in several Chinese cities, including Shenzhen, Hangzhou, in Zhejiang province, and the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions. As of Friday, world gold prices stood at $2,459.32 per ounce, up from about $2,009.6 a year ago, according to the World Gold Council. Against the backdrop of higher gold prices, global consumption of gold jewelry has remained stable at 2,093 metric tons in 2023. According to data released at the expo, China's gold production rose 0.58 percent year-on-year to some 180 tons in the first half of this year. However, gold consumption across the nation dropped by 5.61 percent year-on-year to some 523.8 tons, with gold jewelry consumption down 26.7 percent, even as sales of gold bars and coins surged 46 percent. Acknowledging the structural changes and adjustments in the gold jewelry consumption market, Huang Shikun, chairman of Kinghood, said companies in the sector will face significant transformation challenges. He added that its new machine will offer significant opportunities for growth. Chinese netizens have, meanwhile, praised the "gold ATMs", with some even seeking out their specific locations. "It makes gold transactions more transparent and assured," said Liu, a buyer from Shenzhen. However, they have also expressed displeasure at the service fee 18 yuan per gram saying it is higher than those charged at some regular gold outlets. UVALDE (Nexstar/KXAN) After previous plans for termination, the Texas Department of Public Safety has reinstated a Texas Ranger who was suspended for more than a year over his response to the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde. DPS Director Steven McCraw informed Texas Ranger Ryan Kindell on Friday that he would be removed from suspension and allowed to return to his position in Uvalde County, after a grand jury there determined Kindell did not break protocol or laws in his response to the mass shooting. This is according to documents obtained by Nexstar on Monday. In May 2022, a lone gunman killed 19 children and two teachers in conjoined classrooms at Robb Elementary in Uvalde. It took 77 minutes for law enforcement officers from dozens of federal, state and local agencies to breach the classroom and take down the 18-year-old gunman. In total, there were 376 law enforcement officers who responded. BACKGROUND: DPS to fire Texas Ranger for inaction during Uvalde school shooting I have decided to alter my preliminary decision based upon a review of the completed Texas Ranger criminal investigation, McCraw wrote. An internal review of the actions of Texas Department of Public Safety officers who responded to the attack and subsequent to the review by the Uvalde County grand jury of the law enforcement response at Robb Elementary. McCraw has previously told Nexstar that he was waiting on the completion of an internal criminal investigation, as well as the Uvalde County grand jury findings, before making a final decision about Kindells job status. In his Friday letter, McCraw noted Uvalde County District Attorney Christina Mitchell and the grand jury did not find Kindell had any criminal culpability for his response to the shooting. The Uvalde grand jury reviewed all law enforcement officers who responded to the attack at Robb Elementary and no action was taken on officers employed by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Further, [Mitchell] has requested that you be reinstated to your former position, McCraw wrote. The DAs findings are consistent with internal records obtained by KXAN in a 2023 investigation, which showed the two highest-ranking Texas Rangers said Kindell should not face repercussions based on his actions that day. McCraws initial determination to terminate Kindell went against the recommendations of the chief and assistant chief of the Texas Rangers who found there is a lack of evidence to suggest Kindell should have acted differently on May 24, 2022. Nexstar was able to reach Kindells attorney, who declined to comment at this time. Ranger Kindells response to the shooting, according to an internal investigation Kindell a veteran officer with more than 20 years of experience at DPS and no disciplinary action on his file was working from home on May 24, 2022, when he received a phone call from the Uvalde District Attorneys Office Chief Investigator informing him about a possible active school shooter, according to the OIG report obtained by KXAN. INVESTIGATION: Internal memos find no fault in suspended Texas Rangers Uvalde response According to the OIG report, Kindell contacted Uvalde Police Department Sgt. Donald Page who confirmed there was an unknown individual at Robb Elementary, armed with a rifle, and actively shooting inside the school building, and requested Kindells assistance as well as all DPS assets. Kindell informed his commanding officer of the developing situation and responded to Robb Elementary. According to DPS reports, there were more than 50 officers on-scene when Kindell arrived, 41 of whom were already inside the school. Other responding officers who faced disciplinary action Former Uvalde CISD Police Chief Pete Arredondo was the first law enforcement official to be fired over the police response that day. Through his attorney, Arredondo has said he did not know he was the designated incident commander for the response, despite the UCISD active shooter policy directing its police chief to assume command. Former Uvalde CISD police chief, other officer indicted for Robb Elementary shooting response Arredondo and former Uvalde CISD police officer Adrian Gonzales both face criminal charges for their response, as a result of the Uvalde grand jurys review of law enforcement action. In June, the two were indicted on felony charges of child endangerment and abandonment for their roles in response to the second-worst mass shooting in American history. UPD acting chief of police Lt. Mariano Pargas resigned from his position in November, days before the city was set to take a vote on his employment. Of the 91 DPS officers who responded to Robb Elementary on May 24, seven were put under investigation for their response to the shooting. Actions were taken against two officers, Ranger Ryan Kindell and Sgt. Juan Maldonado. Maldonado was served with termination papers but retired before his termination was finalized. A third DPS employee, Trooper Crimson Elizondo, retired and then went to work as a police officer with UCISD. Elizondo was fired from the district in October, after media reports revealed her new employment with UCISD, despite the fact that she had been under investigation by DPS for her response to the shooting. After terminating Elizondo, UCISD suspended its entire police department and placed two top officials, Lt. Miguel Hernandez and Student Services Director Ken Mueller, on administrative leave. Mueller has since retired. McCraw told KXAN in February 2023 that no additional Rangers will face repercussions for their actions at Robb Elementary. This is a developing story, check back for updates. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. Texas Ranger Christopher Ryan Kindell has been reinstated to his position after being removed from duty amid inquiries into the botched response to the Robb Elementary School mass shooting in Uvalde, according to a letter from Col. Steven McCraw, director of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Kindell was suspended in October 2022 and the department had moved to terminate him in January 2023. I have decided to alter my preliminary decision based upon a review of the completed Texas Ranger criminal investigation on the May 24, 2022 Robb Elementary School mass shooting, an internal review of the actions of Texas Department of Public Safety officers who responded to the attack, and subsequent to the review by the Uvalde Grand Jury, McCraw wrote in the letter, dated August 2 and obtained by CNN on Monday. McCraws letter notes that according to 38th Judicial District Attorney Christina Mitchell, the Uvalde Grand Jury reviewed all law enforcement officers who responded to the attack on Robb Elementary School, and no action was taken on officers employed by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Mitchell had requested Kindells reinstatement, McCraw added. CNN has reached out to Kindell and the DPS for comment. The massacre at Robb Elementary School left 19 children and two teachers dead, making it one of the deadliest shootings at a K-12 school in the United States. While victims lay wounded, it took the 376 law enforcement officers on scene 77 minutes to confront and kill the gunman from the time he entered the school through an unlocked door. More than 90 Texas DPS officers responded to the scene and were among the first to arrive. Texas Ranger Ryan Kindell has been reinstated after being suspended in October 2022. - Uvalde Game Warden During the shooting, Kindell told investigators his actions at the scene and during the event were minimal, sources close to the investigation previously told CNN. Kindell told investigators he had no discussions about options to breach the classroom, as a person in his position would have been expected to do, the sources added. He was seen speaking on the phone multiple times on footage from surveillance cameras and body cameras. Kindell was also seen in one of the schools hallways as gunfire emerged from one of the classrooms. Hes still shooting, he could be heard telling someone on the phone. Less than three minutes later, he walked towards the classrooms, apparently offering to negotiate with the gunman, asking, Does anyone know this kids name? Ill try to talk to him. The Texas Rangers are a special group within Texas DPS with higher standards for recruitment. Their storied history goes back to before Texas joined the United States and on the DPS website, former Ranger Captain Bob Crowder is quoted as saying, A Ranger is an officer who is able to handle any given situation without definite instructions from his commanding officer or higher authority. This ability must be proven before a man becomes a Ranger. 2 law enforcement officers have been indicted over failed response Former Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District Police Chief Pete Arredondo and former school police officer Adrian Gonzales are the only law enforcement officers to be indicted on criminal charges so far. Arredondo faces 10 counts of child endangerment and known criminal negligence while Gonzales faces 29 counts of abandoning and endangering a child, according to the indictments. Arredondo pleaded not guilty last week, CNN affiliate KSAT reported. Gonzales pleaded not guilty on July 25. Arredondo was described as the de facto on-scene commander by the Justice Department in its scathing review of the incident. The former chief has said he never considered himself the incident commander, though he did issue orders to those in the hallway with him. Pete Arredondo, former police chief for the school district, seen in 2022. - Evan L'Roy for The Texas Tribune Arredondo is accused of failing to recognize the incident as an active shooting and for failing to take proper action to intervene, the indictment says, and these behaviors placed each child in imminent danger of bodily injury, death, physical impairment and mental impairment. He had also tried to negotiate with the gunman, something McCraw admitted was the wrong decision. Arredondo was fired in August 2022 in a unanimous vote by the school board. Gonzales, who left the school district in February 2023, failed to engage, distract or delay the shooter, and failed to otherwise act in a way to impede the shooter until after the shooter entered rooms 111 and 112 of Robb Elementary School and shot at a child or children in Rooms 111 and 112, the indictment stated. Former school district police officer Adrian Gonzales arrives at the Uvalde County Courthouse in July. - Eric Gay/AP Gonzales told investigators he was one of the first officers to arrive and entered the south hallway with Arredondo after hearing shots. He said he could not use his radio inside the building, so he left. While the gunman was unchallenged inside the school, Gonzales said he spent much of the time waiting with emergency medics outside the west door. He also found a set of keys and a plan of the school, he said, that had been requested by a Texas Ranger on scene. Both Arredondo and Gonzales were released on a $10,000 bond, according to Uvalde County Jail records. Gonzales next hearing is scheduled for mid-September. CNNs Shimon Prokupecz, Rachel Clarke, Linh Tran, Alaa Elassar, Leigh Waldman, Holly Yan, Rosa Flores and Matthew J. Friedman contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Texass Department of Public Safety (DPS) reinstated a state trooper this week who was suspended after the botched response to the Uvalde, Texas, school shooting in 2022. DPS Director Col. Steve McCraw wrote to Texas Ranger Christopher Ryan Kindell, who was ousted following the shooting at Robb Elementary School, to inform the officer he removed the suspension status and restored his job, The Associated Press reported. McCraw, in the letter dated Friday, said the local district attorney requested Kindell be able to return to his past position and said he had not been charged by the local grand jury tasked with investigating the shooting earlier this year. In May 2022, an 18-year-old gunman entered the school and killed two teachers and 19 students and injured 17 others. Several reports found the law enforcement response that day resulted in nearly 400 members of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies standing outside the elementary school for 77 minutes while the gunman was inside. The Department of Justice released its findings in a scathing report. Families of the victims renewed calls for police officers to face charges. Only two officers face criminal charges. Both have pleaded not guilty, according to CNN. Since the shooting, Kindell and at least four others lost their jobs. Another officer retired and one resigned. Kindell was initially suspended in January 2023 when a termination letter from McCraw said he did not conform to department standards and should have acted in an active shooter response, not one involving a barricaded person, the AP reported. McCraw said he had been informed by Uvalde County District Attorney Christina Mitchell that a grand jury reviewed the actions of all officers and no action was taken on officers employed by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Texas trooper gets job back in Uvalde after suspension from botched police response to 2022 shooting FILE - Flowers and other items surround crosses at a memorial, June 9, 2022, for the victims of a shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File) AUSTIN, Texas (AP) The Texas Department of Public Safety has reinstated a state trooper who was suspended after the botched law enforcement response to the shooting at a Uvalde elementary school in 2022. In a letter sent to Texas Ranger Christopher Ryan Kindell on Aug. 2 and released by the agency on Monday, DPS Director Col. Steve McCraw removed the officer's suspension status and restored him to his job in Uvalde County. McCraw's letter said the local district attorney had requested Kindell be returned to his job, and noted he had not been charged by a local grand jury that reviewed the police response. Nineteen students and two teachers were killed in the May 24, 2022, attack on Robb Elementary School, making it one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. Nearly 400 officers waited more than an hour before confronting the shooter in the classroom, while injured students inside texted and call 911 begging for help and parents outside pleaded for them to go in. Kindell was initially suspended in January 2023 when McCraw's termination letter said the ranger's action did not conform to department standards and that he should have recognized it was an active shooter situation, not one involving a barricaded subject. Scathing state and federal investigative reports on the police response have catalogued cascading failures in training, communication, leadership and technology problems. Kindell was one of the few DPS officers disciplined. Later, another who was informed he would be fired decided to retire, and another officer resigned. Only two of the responding officers from that day, both formerly with the Uvalde schools police department, face criminal charges. Former Uvalde schools police chief Pete Arredondo and officer Adrian Gonzales were indicted in June on charges of child endangerment and abandonment. Both pleaded not guilty in July. In his reinstatement letter, McCraw wrote that Kindell was initially suspended after the agency's internal investigation. But now, McCraw said he had been told by Uvalde County District Attorney Christina Mitchell that a grand jury had reviewed the actions of all officers who responded to the attack, and "no action was taken on officers employed by the Texas Department of Public Safety. "Further, she has requested that you be reinstated to your former position, McCraw wrote. Mitchell did not respond to email requests for comment. It was not immediately clear if Kindell has an attorney. Families of the victims in the south Texas town of about 15,000 people about 80 miles (130 kilometers) west of San Antonio, have long sought accountability for the slow police response that day. Some of the families have called for more officers to be charged. Several families of Uvalde victims have filed federal and state lawsuits against law enforcement, social media and online gaming companies, and the gun manufacturer that made the rifle the gunman used. (Bloomberg) -- Thailands top court ordered dissolution of the nations largest opposition party for violating election rules, in a verdict that risks igniting fresh political turmoil in the Southeast Asian nation. Most Read from Bloomberg The nine-member Constitutional Court unanimously ruled that Move Forward Partys poll promise to amend the lese majeste law, which protects the royal family from criticism, violated election rules. The court also banned its top executives, including prime ministerial candidate Pita Limjaroenrat and opposition leader Chaithawat Tulathon, from political activities or running for public office for 10 years. After the verdict, Pita denied the charge that his party sought to undermine the monarchy but vowed to continue the groups fight to break the cycle of party dissolutions to make Thailand a true democracy. Under Thai election rules, about 150 Move Forward lawmakers in the 500-member House of Representatives, must now move to a new party within 60 days or lose their seats. A new party will be announced on Friday, Sirikanya Tansakun, whos widely tipped to lead the new outfit, told reporters. The Election Commission had sought the partys dissolution after a court earlier this year ruled that the groups campaign for amending the royal insult law, also known as as Article 112 of the Thai penal code, amounted to an attempt to overthrow the kingdoms constitutional monarchy. While the dissolution risks triggering political unrest, a ruling next week by the same court on a petition to oust Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin over an alleged ethical slip-up may add to the drama. Already, investors are dumping the nations stocks, and any further upheaval can potentially derail Sretthas attempts to reboot an economy thats notched an average sub-2% growth rate in the past decade, well below its regional peers. The baht extended declines to 0.4% after the courts ruling, while the nations benchmark stock index closed 1.3% higher amid broader gains in the region. Investor Concerns Investors are more worried about the fate of the prime minister as his disqualification could disrupt government functioning and budget spending, according to Koraphat Vorachet, an investment strategist at Krungsri Securities Co. The market had already priced in the impact of a dissolution, he said. Move Forward disrupted Thai politics by winning the most parliamentary seats general election held in May last year. Its supporters were largely young and urban voters who had grown frustrated with the nearly decade-long military-backed administrations. Conservative Sway The Harvard-educated Pita, whose bid to form a government was thwarted by conservative politicians and a military-appointed Senate, had denied the charges and accused the poll agency of not following proper procedures in the case. The upstart party antagonized Thailands pro-royalist conservative establishment thats held sway over national politics since the end of absolute monarchy in 1932 with its call for reforms. Wednesdays ruling is in line with the charter courts verdict in January, when judges ordered the party to cease all its activities to amend the royal insult law. The defendant had undermined the status and protection of the monarchy, the court said, adding that the party sought to gain votes and win the election by trying to pit the monarchy against the people and making the institution a target of criticism. The dissolution is a full circle for Move Forward, which replaced its predecessor Future Forward when it was dissolved by the same court for breaching election rules for financing in 2020. Its key leaders were also barred from politics for a decade. The ruling then sparked an unprecedented youth-led protest movement that called for the resignation of the then military-backed prime minister and reforms of the monarchy. Assault on Democracy Thailands charter court has dissolved dozens of political parties and banned hundreds of politicians in the past two decades for minor and major breaches of electoral rules, according to local media. A regional group of parliamentarians said the dissolution was an assault on democracy and called on the Thai government to soon amend the military-drafted charter restricting freedom of expression. This judiciary overreach not only undermines Thailands political stability but also tarnishes its international reputation, Mercy Chriesty Barends, chairperson of the Asean Parliamentarians for Human Rights, said in a statement. When peoples voices are disenfranchised, we start to lose trust in Thailands democratic integrity. There is no democracy without freedom of expression, as well as a viable and free political opposition. The party was the most popular in the country, with Pita being the top choice as a prime ministerial candidate, according to a June survey by the National Institute of Development Administration. --With assistance from Pathom Sangwongwanich. (Updates with Move Forward reaction in third paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. A behavioral therapy center for children with autism faces a lawsuit by parents who say their child was physically abused at the center, according to the complaint filed Monday in a Tarrant County district court. An employee of ABA Interactive threw the non-verbal autistic child against a wall in June, in an attack that was captured on video, according to the suit. North Richland Hills police said in a news release Tuesday that they are investigating what happened and are ready to charge at least one person. Police heard from the 7-year-old boys mother that he was assaulted by a therapist at ABA Interactive, and a warrant has been issued on second-degree felony charges of injury to a child, police said. Police have not released the name of the person who faces criminal charges. ABA Interactive did not respond to a request for comment from the Star-Telegram. The parents learned about the childs injury when the father went to pick his son up from ABA Interactive, according to the suit. But while video evidence would later show that the child was thrown against a wall, the lawsuit says the father was initially told his son had inflicted injuries on himself during a behavioral episode. More top stories from our newsroom: Man sentenced in retrial of killing at AT&T Stadium Reading scores show FWISD years behind national average County plans to pay guards' attorneys in jail death suit [Get our breaking news alerts.] The father couldnt get any information on what triggered the alleged episode but was asked by the center to sign an incident report that said the boy hurt himself, according to the suit. When he got home, though, he and his wife had a conversation where they both recalled that their son had never been violent toward himself or others. Later on, the mother contacted ABA Interactive and asked to see video of what happened, according to the suit. She said she wanted to know what to look out for in the future in case her son tried to harm himself again. An employee said she would have to review the video herself to see if the parents could see it, citing HIPAA concerns. The mother was eventually told she couldnt review the video because other children were in it and another parent didnt want the video released, according to the suit. That same employee later showed up at the familys home with a licensed therapist on the phone and told the boys parents that their son had a behavioral episode and hit an employee. She told the parents the employee gently restrained the boy and another employee came to help control him, and that in the video the camera couldnt see what happened when the boy hurt himself, according to the complaint. The family wanted to know why those details werent in the incident report the father signed and why the center couldnt tell the parents how the boy got hurt. Two therapists ended up contacting the family on separate occasions, with one saying that nobody was being allowed to see the video and another saying theyd obtained a copy of the video, according to the complaint. When the parents finally saw the video, they saw the boy pat a therapist on the leg. The action wasnt aggressive and was just meant to get attention, according to the suit. The video then showed the second therapist mentioned by ABA Interactive rush toward the boy, pick up him as he was flailing, push him into a corner while stepping on another child with autism, and then throw the boy into the wall, according to the suit. That employee was not fired but reassigned to home therapy, the suit states. The parents accused the center of negligence and are demanding a jury trial, seeking over $1 million in damages. During the veepstakes of the past few weeks, both moderates and progressives have scrambled to claim Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as one of their own. As a member of Congress, Walz was certainly a man of the middle, and he has maintained plenty of moderate positions alongside progressive ones during his gubernatorial tenure; progressive stalwarts from Bernie Sanders to the United Auto Workers also gave him their stamp of approval. But what matters most about Walz isnt where he sits on the ideological scatterplotits his distinctive approach to wielding political power, which he summed up concisely in a tweet from last June accompanying a sizzle reel celebrating the legislative successes of Minnesota Democrats. Right now, Minnesota is showing the country you don't win elections to bank political capital you win elections to burn political capital and improve lives. pic.twitter.com/HWXXkSFxYj Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) June 5, 2023 Minnesota is a distinctly purple state. Hillary Clinton barely squeaked it out in 2016 over Donald Trump, and those on Trumps 2020 team believed that it was in reach for them in that cycle too. Its state government also reflects that near 5050 splitand after the most recent 2022 elections, Minnesota Democrats headed into 2023 having won the governorship, a six-seat majority in the House, and just a one-seat majority in the Senate, which made for only the second Democratic trifecta in the past 20 years. In delicate, swingy political environments like that, Democrats have tended to embrace extreme caution, fearful of upsetting the balance and provoking a conservative backlash that might hand control back to Republicans. Walz and his Democratic caucus did exactly the opposite. With the narrowest of margins, Minnesota Dems went on an incredible legislative tear, passing bill after bill along largely partisan lines. In just one session, they passed a constitutional right to abortion, universal free breakfast and lunch for Minnesota schoolchildren, paid family and medical leave, the nations broadest right-to-repair law (legislation making it easier for people to fix appliances and electronics), free college for students from families making less than $80,000 a year, legal weed, increased taxes on corporations and people earning over $1 million on investments, prescription drug price reform, and more. A lot more! They have kept at it this year, outlawing junk fees. That legendary legislative session was well documented in a Vanity Fair piece that features this memorable line: Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman said Democrats attitude headed into 2023 was LFGlets fucking go. Democratic lawmakers played the DJ Khaled song All I Do Is Win in the House caucus room anytime they passed one of the 30 priorities on their lengthy wish list. Not everything stuck. Walz himself vetoed a ride-share driver pay and benefits bill that Uber and Lyft lobbied fiercely against. Still, that willingness to use all available political power to pursue the Democratic agendaas Walz himself put it, to burn political capital and improve liveswas a serious break with Democratic orthodoxy. Rather than constantly reaching across the aisle trying to court Republicans and watering down Democratic legislation, rather than citing future elections as a reason Democrats couldnt do something, they simply went about pursuing a popular and transformative agenda with the full force of their tiny majority. That epic legislative output put Walz on the map nationally; it also put true-blue states like California and New York to shame. Despite having Democratic governors and supermajorities in their state Houses and Senates, neither California Gov. Gavin Newsom nor New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has seen a legislative output anywhere near what Walz and his Minnesota Democrats pulled off with zero votes to spare. Congress looks an awful lot like Minnesota: Democrats had tiny majorities in the House and Senate for the first two years of the Biden administration and lost the House thereafter. Even if Harris and Walz win in November, its unlikely theyll have anything resembling a robust majority, given how gerrymandered and polarized the countrys House districts are. So the margins to pursue Democratic legislation are going to be narrow, if they exist at all. Walz has shown that despite all that, Democrats have no reason to aim small, shy away from party-line triumphs, or govern scared of forthcoming elections. His political reputation is proof that theres more upside in taking bold action than in searching for reasons not to. Whether hes a moderate or a progressive, thats a major contribution to the Democratic ticket. RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) Tropical Storm Debby impacts are being felt in central North Carolina Thursday morning with heavy rain and strong storms capable of producing spin-up tornadoes. The CBS 17 Storm Team Alert Day continues all day Thursday. Flooding rain, gusty winds, and isolated tornadoes are all expected. A confirmed tornado happened in Wilson County around 2:51 a.m. in Lucama, causing extensive damage to homes and Springfield Middle School. A second tornado was confirmed east of Louisburg in Franklin County just after 8 a.m. Thursday morning. The Tornado Watch has now been extended to run through 8 PM Thursday, as the threat will remain well into the day as inland rain bands push into our area. Durham, Person and Mecklenburg (VA) counties have also been added to the watch. Debby made a second landfall this morning near Bulls Bay, SC with maximum sustained winds of 50 MPH and as of 2 p.m. was on its way crossing into North Carolina. The tropical storm has sustained winds of 40 miles per hour and is moving a little more quickly to the north-northwest at 10 miles per hour. The most notable change to the track is Debbys shifting a little to the west and a faster speed through our area, which led to forecast rain totals being lowered. Debby is now expected to move out a little faster Friday morning, leading to dry weather and even some sunshine by Friday afternoon. The greatest impact from Debby will be flooding. Wind gusts could reach between 30 and 40 mph at times on Thursday and Friday. State of Emergency declared in North Carolina ahead of Tropical Storm Debby RAINFALL AMOUNTS Rainfall totals will all depend on where the heaviest rain sets up, but generally, most areas will pick up between 2 to 8 through Friday morning, with localized higher amounts approaching 10. Soils are already saturated across much of the region, so flooding issues are elevated. The Weather Prediction Center still has most of central NC under a rare extreme flood or high flash flood risk for Thursday, meaning flash flooding will be likely. Tropical Storm Debby slowly moving towards the Carolinas Gusty winds could also bring down some trees and powerlines, meaning power outages could become an issue in isolated amounts. Forecast wind gusts Friday are expected to be 30-40 m.p.h. with a low tornado threat, mainly in the early morning. North Carolina crews clear storm drains, ready equipment ahead of storm On Monday morning, Debby made landfall in the Big Bend region of Florida as a Category 1 Hurricane with winds of 80 mph. For residents in Central North Carolina, a good hurricane preparedness plan includes having an emergency kit ready. This kit could contain non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents. Its also wise to have cash on hand, as power outages can make electronic transactions difficult. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com. Three from Granite City killed in separate crashes are identified Three people from Granite City were killed in two separate highway crashes near Pontoon Beach, according to St. Louis news sources. According to Fox2, the first crash occurred on Illinois 111, just south of the Interstate 270 interchange at about 8:50 p.m. Saturday. The television station cited Pontoon Beach Police Chief Chris Modrusic in reporting that a pedestrian was pushing a bicycle westbound across the highway when he was struck by a southbound GMC van. Barry McGrew, 69, was rushed to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries, Fox 2 reported. The second crash also occurred on Illinois 111 and Timberlake Drive about an hour later. Modrusic told KMOV-4 that Cole and Morgan Whitford, both 29, were riding a Harley Davidson southbound when the motorcycle struck the front drivers side of a Chrysler Pacifica van as it made a left-hand turn north from Timberlake. The couple was ejected from the motorcycle and rushed to a local hospital, where they both died, the television station reported. (COLORADO) A trio of four-legged investigators and their two-legged handler are joining the Colorado Division of Fire Preventions Fire Investigations Branch. An announcement on Monday, Aug. 5, introduced Brian Eberle and his three K9s, who are specialized in tracking and detecting ignitable liquid and decomposing human scent. According to the Colorado Department of Public Safety (CDPS), arson is an underreported crime, and it is often difficult to determine the cause of many fires, so arson dogs play a key role in the investigations. Its all hands and paws on deck to better protect Coloradans and our communities this fire season and we are excited to welcome ROTC, Hiccup, Moose, and their handler Brian, to the team. We know that their experience will help save lives, support critical investigations, and strengthen Colorados wildfire response capacity, said Governor Jared Polis. Eberle has served for 21 years in the fire service, coming from his most recent assignment overseeing the Fire Investigation Unit and working as a K9 Handler. He has trained and worked with K9s since 2007 and is the co-founder of Bloodhound Man-Trackers. CDPS said Eberle and his dogs have assisted dozens of law enforcement agencies on arson, homicide, and missing persons cases. He is a member of NecroSearch International as a Decomposing Human Scent K9 Handler, a K9 resource for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and was a K9 Search Specialist for FEMAs Colorado Task Force 1 Search and Rescue Team. He has testified several times as an expert witness in K9 detection. ROTC, Hiccup, Moose, and, of course, Brian represent a tremendous addition to our fire investigations team. We are grateful for the opportunity to offer the skills they possess to our Colorado citizens. Having investigator Eberle and his three K-9s join us in our mission to assist local jurisdictions with determining the cause of the fires that occur across our State will undoubtedly benefit countless communities, said Chief Chris Brunette of the Fire and Life Safety Section at the Division of Fire Prevention and Control. ROTC New K9's and handler join Colorado fire agency K9 ROTC (pronounced Rotsy) is a 7-year-old male Yellow Lab certified as an ignitable liquid detection canine through Maine State Police, under the guidance of the Maine Criminal Justice Academy. In service since 2020, he has assisted dozens of agencies, including the ATF, CBI, and FBI on numerous fires. Hiccup K9 Hiccup is a 3-year-old male Bloodhound trained in tracking/trailing and detecting decomposing human scent. In service since 2022, he has volunteered his time as a K9 resource with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and NecroSearch International. New K9's and handler join Colorado fire agency Moose New K9's and handler join Colorado fire agency K9 Moose is a 3-year-old male German Shepherd trained in decomposing human scent detection. He has served since 2022 and also has volunteered his time as a K9 resource with The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and NecroSearch International. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) A three-month-old baby is dead after police said he was attacked by dogs at a home on Bidwell Terrace Saturday afternoon. Rochester police found the boy suffering from severe trauma to his body. He was taken to a nearby hospital but died from his injuries. RPD said Animal Control members secured two pit-bull type dogs from the home. They believe those dogs were involved in the attack. The Major Crimes Unit, the DAs Office, and Child Protective Services are investigating the incident and the circumstances leading up to it. No charges have been filed at this time. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call the Major Crimes Unit at (585)-428-7157 or email them at MajorCrimes@CityofRochester.gov. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. Three Ukrainians injured in Russian attacks on Dnipropetrovsk Oblast photos The aftermath of a Russian attack on the Nikopol district in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Photo: the Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Military Administration The Russians struck the Nikopol district in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on 6 August, injuring three civilians. Source: Serhii Lysak, the Head of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Military Administration, on social media Details: Lysak stated that the Nikopol district was literally "rocked by enemy attacks". The Russians used kamikaze drones and artillery to strike the Nikopol, Pokrov and Marhanets hromadas (a hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories ed.). Two men aged 46 and 57 and a woman aged 57 were injured. They will recover on an outpatient basis. A fire department, a clinic and a kindergarten were damaged as well. A private house caught fire. In total, the Russians damaged 15 houses. In addition to this, 10 outbuildings, a car, solar panels, and an excavator were damaged. Power lines were slightly damaged as well. Background: The Nikopol district is constantly being attacked by the Russians. On the evening of 4 August and on 5 August at night, Russian forces struck it once again, injuring two people, damaging residential buildings, a private company, power lines, garages and a car. Support UP or become our patron! Winter Swan-Miller murdered an Army veteran in a rage over her Pomeranian, then boasted about it online A TikTok fan who stabbed a British Army veteran to death for letting her white Pomeranian pet out continues to find the murder amusing, a court heard as she was jailed for 23 years. Malevolent Winter Swan-Miller sought revenge on 62-year-old Stuart Crocker by stabbing him 27 times and strangling him with a handbag strap because he let her therapy pet, Oblivion, escape. After murdering the grandfather, the 37-year-old took to TikTok and addressed thieves saying taking my dog from me, the only thing in the entire world that Ive got, and boasted of how she had been a bad girl. She had malign intent when attacking Mr Crocker, who suffered post-traumatic stress disorder from his time in the Army, and on Tuesday a judge condemned the highly manipulative individual for her merciless attack. If fame and notoriety was your goal, then by killing Stuart Crocker in the appalling manner you did, you succeeded in achieving it for all the wrong reasons, Judge Angela Morris said. Victim Stuart Crocker was a British Army veteran who suffered from PTSD - Hampshire Police/Solent News Opening the trial at Winchester Crown Court, Hants, in May, Nicola Shannon KC said Mr Crocker was found dead by paramedics at his home in Andover, Wilts, on June 28 last year. His body was found under a white blanket with the TV playing and a switched-on fan placed behind his head. Police believed Mr Crocker was stabbed some five days before and his body was surrounded by notes written by Swan-Miller. One note read: Take my f-----g dog you whore. This is why Ive done this haha. How does his death feel haha. You thought I would let you get away with taking me for a f-----g mug. Taking my dog, are you real. Jurors were also shown a number of TikTok videos, organised into parts, which were posted on June 23. In one video, titled Part Two, Swan-Miller can be heard saying: Taking my dog from me, the only thing in the entire world that Ive got. I did do what I did and I did it because I had no choice. They took away the only thing in my life that I have got, and thats my dog Oblivion. The prosecutor said Swan-Miller hoped for some degree of fame and notoriety for what she had done. After going on the run to Birmingham, she was eventually arrested on June 30 and remained in custody ever since. This week, after a 12-week trial, a jury unanimously found Swan-Miller guilty of murder. At her sentencing on Tuesday, Ms Shannon said Swan-Miller had an intended desire for revenge regarding the treatment of her dog. Malevolent entity The prosecutor added: Significantly, there has been no indication of remorse or acceptance of responsibility after the killing and indeed, multiple instances where Swan-Miller seems to find it amusing. The prosecutor said there was a deprivation of dignity in the way in which Mr Crocker was killed and said Swan-Miller intended to scare, harm and humiliate him. The court heard a statement from Joseph Kingswell, Mr Crockers son, who said his dad suffered PTSD from serving in the Army during the Northern Ireland Troubles. The son described Swan-Miller as a malevolent entity and said his children are no longer able to feel the warmth of [their grandfathers] love. He added: My family has been splintered. I wasnt even able to say goodbye to him. Winter Swan-Miller hoped for 'some degree of fame and notoriety for what she had done', a court heard - Ollie Thompson/Solent News Gurdeep Garcha KC, mitigating, said: She has heard the sentence expressed and will have to come to terms with what she has done. Sentencing Swan-Miller, Judge Morris said: [Mr Crocker] was someone who previously had dependency issues with both alcohol and drugs caused by his PTSD that he suffered from his time in the Army. Having heard the evidence in this case, I am satisfied that your relationship with Stuart Crocker was anything but exclusive and that you came and went from his presence as you pleased. Merciless and remorseless The judge said the relationship was more of a convenience to you than anything born out of coercion from him. If there was any level of control and coercion, that came much more from you to him than the other way around, she added. On the Pomeranian, the judge said: You had a fixation on Stuart Crocker being responsible for allowing your dog to escape his flat. Your attack on him had an element of revenge in it. On the attack, she said: It was orchestrated in a forceful and aggressive way against a defenceless man. Judge Morris said Swan-Miller was a highly manipulative person and her actions were merciless and remorseless. The judge sentenced her to 23 years in prison. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The year was 2007, the Iraq War was in full swing, and Congress was struggling to exercise its oversight. Despite a Democratic blowout in the midterm elections driven by public opposition to the war, then-president George W. Bush wanted to "surge" thousands more U.S. troops into Iraq. Democrats proposed a resolution condemning the plan. A freshman representative from Minnesota, a retired Army master sergeant named Tim Walz, stood up in support of the resolution. "Some have said that this debate sends a message to our enemies, and I would agree. The message our enemies are hearing this week is that democracy in America is alive and well," he said. "The geniuses of the founders of this country are on display right now," Walz added, praising Congress' constitutional role in overseeing war. Walz is now governor of Minnesotaand on Tuesday, he became the Democratic candidate for vice president. Picking him could be a sign that a future Harris administration might exercise more foreign policy restraint; Vice President Kamala Harris' national security adviser, Phil Gordon, has also built a public profile around learning from the mistakes of regime change campaigns, such as the Iraq War. For all his strong feelings about war powers, however, Walz has also shown a tendency to shrink from tough political fights on the issue. During the debate over the surge, Walz voted to force the U.S. military to withdraw from Iraq within 90 days. Yet less than five months later, he voted to continue funding the war. It was a position that put him at odds with a majority of his Democratic colleagues. "In my district I wasn't hearing [during the campaign] an overall cry that the troops have to out by midnight tomorrow," Walz told NBC News. "My fear is if the pullback of troops was either delayed or sped up based on politics, that that's dangerous." A similar pattern unfolded throughout Walz's congressional career. According to voting records compiled by Peace Action, an antiwar advocacy group, Walz often voted to repeal the War on Terror-era authorizations for the use of military force (AUMFs), while also voting against restrictions or cuts to military funding. When war broke out with the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, then-president Barack Obama asked Congress for a new AUMF. The bill authorized war but excluded "enduring offensive ground combat operations" against the Islamic State and "associated forces" for a three-year period. Walz thought it was a good compromise option. "The president is trying to get a fine line between not tying his hands and recognizing the fact that Americans, I would say rightfully so, are worried about open-ended conflicts," Walz told the Mankato Free Press, a local newspaper. When that bill failed, the Obama administration claimed that the war was authorized anyways under the 2001 AUMF against Al Qaeda and the 2002 AUMF against Iraq. Walz continued to push for war powers reformand against any congressional enforcement of those reforms. For example, in May 2016, Walz voted to repeal the 2001 AUMF. The following month, he voted against a bill that would put an expiration date on war funding under the 2001 AUMF and against another bill that would defund military operations in Iraq and Syria unless a new AUMF could be passed. This middle-of-the-road stance continued under former president Donald Trump. In 2017, after Trump ordered airstrikes against the Syrian government for using chemical weapons against civilians, Walz stated that the bombing was "clearly warranted," even though "any further military action" needs permission from Congress, "especially if it may risk putting more of our men and women in uniform into harm's way." Walz left Congress in 2019, and hasn't had to deal with many foreign policy issues as governor of Minnesotawith the notable exception of the war in Gaza. He condemned the Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023, endorsed the general idea of a ceasefire in March 2024, and praised pro-Palestinian protests for being "civically engaged." None of these statements suggest that he'll take a hard line in any direction. As a member of Congress and a governor, Walz has been able to play the moderate, showing skepticism of war without aggressively fighting to stop it. As a candidate for the White House, he won't be able demur as easily. The man who started his career praising restraints on the president may soon have those principles put to the test. The post Tim Walz Is Against Unaccountable Warsbut He Voted To Fund Them Anyways appeared first on Reason.com. Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate. Walz was a moderate Democrat when he served in the House of Representatives but veered left during his two terms as governor. He referred to socialism as synonymous with neighborliness, pursued an extremely progressive governing agenda, and earned an F from the Cato Institute on fiscal policy. Another notable thing about Walz is that he served as governor during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is thus possible to parse his approach to the virusand that record is extremely disturbing. Indeed, Walz's coronavirus policies were extremely heavy-handed and restrictive; under his leadership, the state endured the pandemic in a fundamentally anti-libertarian fashion. When the coronavirus was first spreading, Walz was an enthusiastic promoter of social distancing rules. He described the crowds in public, outdoor spaces as "a little too big." He even defended Minnesota's ridiculous hotline for COVID-19 snitches. That's right: Walz's government maintained a method for people to report their neighbors for failing to abide by social distancing rules. Walz insisted in a recent interview that "one person's socialism is another person's neighborliness"; denouncing one's neighbors as insufficiently loyal to government policies is a fundamental aspect of socialism, however. When asked by Republicans to take down the hotline, Walz responded: "We're not going to take down a phone number that people can call to keep their families safe." And though Walz instructed police to merely issue citations to people caught violating stay-at-home orderswhich is still bad enoughhe also maintained the right, via executive order, to issue $1,000 fines and send violators to jail for 90 days. His government maintained that private, indoor gatherings should be limited to 10 people. Outdoor gatherings were arbitrarily capped at 25 people. On July 23, 2020, Walz declared a statewide mask mandate for most indoor spaces and even some outdoor spaces. "If we can get a 90 to 95% compliance, which we've seen the science shows, we can reduce the infection rates dramatically, which slows that spread and breaks that chain," Walz said at the time. "This is the way, the cheapest, the most effective way for us to open up our businesses, for us to get our kids back in school, for us to keep our grandparents healthy and for us to get back that life that we all miss so much." What followed was the implementation of one of the stupidest COVID-19 rules: Diners at restaurants had to wear masks while walking to their table and moving about the establishment but were allowed to go maskless as long as they were eating and drinking. Later, in November and December of 2020, Walz issued and extended orders for restaurants, gyms, and other businesses to shut down. This included outdoor dining service for eating establishments. Over 150 businesses formed the Reopen Minnesota Coalition and urged the governor to relent, but Walz was unmoved. By the spring of 2021, vaccines were widely available for the most at-risk groups, and people who wanted to protect themselves from the risk of severe disease and death were able to exercise that option. It was only at this point that Walz partly relented and allowed widespread reopening; however, he kept capacity limits in place for many businesses. These nonsensical policiesthe efficacy of which is now doubted by top U.S. health officialsare not unique to Minnesota; in fact, they were commonplace in blue states. But Walz was as vigorous an enforcer of them as any of his Democratic peers. He was also one of the foremost defenders of a monstrous COVID-19 policy choice: sending sick, elderly patients back to nursing homes where the infection often spread to other vulnerable people, causing a disproportionate number of coronavirus deaths in such settings. A cover-up of nursing home deaths in New York brought an end to the political ambitions of Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who lied about his involvement in this policy. But Walz was a fellow practitioner; in fact, Walz said that it was "not a mistake" to release sick people back to nursing homes. That statement alone reflects poor enough judgment as to be disqualifying for the pursuit of higher office. Pandemic policies are not nearly as salient today as they were two years ago, and so it remains to be seen whether Walz's record here matters much to voters. But for anyone who considers the COVID-19 restrictions to have been "the biggest assault on our liberties in our lifetime," Walz's veep candidacy should be a nonstarter. The post Tim Walz Was a COVID-19 Tyrant appeared first on Reason.com. Tim Walz, Kamala Harris' pick for vice president, takes aim at DeSantis' policies. What he said Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen her own vice president in her campaign for president of the United States: Tim Walz, governor of Minnesota. Florida's governor, Ron DeSantis, was not impressed. "Harris-Walz: most left-wing ticket in American history," he posted on X, formerly Twitter, Tuesday. "Minnesota was ground zero for the BLM riots of 2020. Harris egged it on and Walz sat by and let Minneapolis burn." But Walz, who has long been a champion for progressive values, hasn't been too impressed with DeSantis, either. Walz slammed Florida in Minnesota State of the State address Walz never mentioned DeSantis by name when delivering his State of the State speech before the Minnesota legislature last April, but he came close. Ive seen some of these other governors on TV they find a lot of time to be on TV and theyre always talking about freedom, he said. But it turns out what they mean is that government should be free to invade your bedroom, your childrens locker room, and your doctors office." DeSantis is a frequent guest on FOX and other conservative shows. Here in Minnesota, when we talk about freedom, we talk about having your children be free to go to school without worrying about being shot dead in their schools, Walz said. With the Democrats holding a margin in Congress, Minnesota has passed several progressive bills during Walz's terms such as abortion access, free school lunches and breakfasts for all students, LGBTQ+ rights, environmental issues and rental assistance. Look, Im only the governor of this great state. Its not up to me how folks in places like Florida go about their business. But I have to tell you, Im pretty glad we do it our way and not their way, Walz said, to applause. Theyre banishing books from their schools. Were banishing hunger from ours. Walz criticized Florida's book bans Walz, a former teacher from a family of teachers, has slammed Florida multiple times over its dramatic increase in book challenges and bans over the last few years. "Ridiculous," he posted on X last September. "While we're focused on banishing hunger with free breakfast and lunch, they're focused on banning books, bullying LGBTQ+ students, and attacking teachers." Ridiculous. While we're focused on banishing hunger with free breakfast and lunch, they're focused on banning books, bullying LGBTQ+ students, and attacking teachers.https://t.co/PtSX7UbyPx Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) September 20, 2023 Earlier that year, in response to a story about Shakespeare possibly being a violation of Florida anti-drag laws, he posted, "They banned Shakespeare whats next?" Walz supports transgender rights More and more GOP-led states particularly Florida under DeSantis have sought to limit gender-affirming care, prevent social transitioning or discussion of gender in schools and block trans people from using bathrooms in public buildings and schools that do not align to their sex assigned at birth. In 2023, Walz signed an executive order protecting such health care and bills that blocked conversion therapy and established Minnesota as a sanctuary state for people traveling or moving to the state for gender-affirming care. I just signed three bills into law that: Protect people seeking or providing abortions in Minnesota Ban the harmful practice of conversion therapy Protect access to gender-affirming health care In Minnesota, were protecting rights not taking them away. Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) April 27, 2023 "In Minnesota, we're protecting rights not taking them away," he said. Walz invited people seeking freedom to move to Minnesota After Florida's College Board effectively banned the AP Psychologist course from schools, Walz weighed in on social media. "My message stays the same: If you want to live in the year 2023, come to Minnesota. Were protecting freedoms here not taking them away." Last month he told a group of Washington reporters that DeSantis' brag of the number of new residents coming in from around the country can work against him. Like no time in my lifetime, the choice in states you could pick could not be greater, he said. Folks dont really care about the woke corporation fights, they care about the roads and water treatment plants. Editor's note: Updated with more information This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Tim Walz, Kamala Harris' VP pick, is the anti-DeSantis. What he said Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris picked her running mate on Tuesday: Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. We asked Freep readers to weigh in. 'A fine vice president' If we are ever to find the road back to sanity in our politics, Tim Walz will be leading the way. Read about any of his accomplishments. They may seem "liberal" to some, but Walz makes it clear that this is the correct way to treat people. As a teacher, as a football coach and as a governor, he uses Midwestern common sense approach to middle class problems without playing into divisive politics. He cuts to the chase about American values and realizes the growth potential in diversity. Yes, he was the first to comment about (Republican presidential nominee) Donald Trump and U.S. Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, as being weird, and it stuck. That only solidified his solid Midwestern man sensibilities of calling it like it is. He will make a fine vice president. Sandra Mulligan Manchester Tim Walz to campaign in Detroit with Kamala Harris: What to know about Minnesota governor Good values, cares about people I have a sense of relief that this was the decision. If you look at the constant struggle for societal progress, this, in a tiny way feels like a positive step forward, when we live in a world that feels negative so often. I'll never fully support a person blindly, but I feel comfortable in trusting that Walz is a decent, normal (relative to politicians) human with the interests of helping common people and the kids of common people actually in his core. I have no clue how much a vice president actually tangibly does, but it at least feels like Democrats chose someone who shares interests of common people and has good human values. Simon Miners St. Clair Shores Campaign workers make preparations for U.S Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris' rally with her newly chosen vice-presidential running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on August 6, 2024. Everyone's talking about Project 2025. Here's what they're missing. 'They won't back down' Vice President Kamala Harris made an excellent decision in Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate. Together, they will govern effectively, inclusively, and boldly for the American people. They won't back down under tight odds, either from healthcare to school lunch. Let's do this. Paul Bacon Hallandale Beach, Fla. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Tim Walz is Kamala Harris' VP pick: Freep readers weigh in Stephen Maturen/Getty Images After days of frantic speculation, Kamala Harris has officially chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to be her running mate in the 2024 presidential election. The decision comes after an intense vetting process of Harris top picks including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear that drew comparisons to Americas Next Top Model. While deliberations were underway, the internet took a shine to Walz, a genial former public school teacher who has championed progressive policies like universal school meals and paid sick leave. Hes also taken a lot of cute pictures with animals. Social media immediately erupted with overjoyed memes celebrating Harris choice. In the final days, Harris was reportedly deliberating between Walz and Shapiro, who some progressives lobbied against because of his staunch support for Israel and strong criticism of pro-Palestine student protests. Check out some of the best Walz memes below. Many posters just shared outright glee. Others seemed surprised that the Democratic Party made a choice that their base was actually excited about. Given reports that former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi helped convince Joe Biden to drop out of the 2024 race and that she favored Walz as VP, some people read this decision as another win for Pelosi. Some people seemed convinced that Walzs charming social media presence mustve sealed the deal. Stay up-to-date with the politics team. Sign up for the Teen Vogue Take Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue Want more U.S. government coverage? What Tim Walz has said about his faith America, meet Minnesota Lutherans. A member of this unofficial subset of Christians, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was added to the Democratic presidential ticket on Tuesday by Vice President Kamala Harris. Walz has referred to himself as a Minnesota Lutheran multiple times in recent years, such as when he spoke at a North Americas Building Trade Unions event in April. Because were good Minnesota Lutherans, we have a rule: If you do something good and talk about it, it no longer counts, he said, according to Religion News Service. So what you have to do is to get someone else to talk about you. The way Walz presents it, Minnesota Lutheran is both a religious identity and a cultural one. Its someone who will tell a self-deprecating story while sharing a jello mold with you at a potluck after church. It is the honor of a lifetime to join @kamalaharris in this campaign. Im all in. Vice President Harris is showing us the politics of whats possible. It reminds me a bit of the first day of school. So, lets get this done, folks! Join us. https://t.co/tqOVsw2OLM Tim Walz (@Tim_Walz) August 6, 2024 Tim Walzs religion Beyond making jokes about Minnesota Lutherans, Walz doesnt say much about his faith during media appearances. On social media, hes referenced attending Pilgrim Lutheran Church in St. Paul, but the references are few and far between. Pilgrim Lutheran Church is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, a mainline Protestant denomination thats theologically liberal compared to other Lutheran denominations active in the U.S., such as the Missouri Synod Lutheran Church. The churchs website highlights its effort to build an inclusive Christian worshipping community, and lists living sustainably and doing justice among the congregations core values. Walzs new running mate, Harris, also identifies as Christian, but her religious background is more eclectic than his. As a child, she visited Hindu temples in addition to Christian churches, and, as an adult, she married a Jewish man, second gentleman Douglas Emhoff, as the Deseret News previously reported. Tim Walzs political beliefs Although Walz doesnt regularly talk about his faith, he does often promote his work on faith-related policies. For example, hes been outspoken about his support for abortion rights. Minnesota was the first to establish an ironclad right to reproductive freedom after the Dobbs decision. Two years later, we continue to stand as a firewall against any and all attacks on reproductive freedom, he wrote on Instagram in June on the anniversary of the release of the Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade. Hes also defended in vitro fertilization, or IVF, as some faith groups, as well as a few conservative lawmakers, have called for limitations on the procedure in recent months. Walz has said that he and and his wife, Gwen, needed fertility treatments to have their two kids, per CNN. My oldest daughters name is Hope. Thats because my wife and I spent seven years trying to get pregnant, needed fertility treatments, things like IVF things (some Republicans) would ban, Walz said last month. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks to the media, Nov. 9, 2022, in St. Paul, Minn. | Abbie Parr Walz is also a vocal advocate of LGBTQ rights. In the 1990s, during his time as a high school teacher, he sponsored Mankato West High Schools first gay-straight alliance, according to The New York Times. When he won his House seat in 2006 in a conservative district, he ran on support for same-sex marriage, the article said. He has recognized Pride Month during his time as governor of Minnesota. As states across the country move to attack the lives and liberties of our LGBTQ+ neighbors, my message is clear. Minnesota will continue to protect your rights not take them away, he wrote on Instagram in June in the caption of a photo post showing his official proclamation on Pride Month. Additionally, Walz has worked to protect access to certain gender-related health care procedures in Minnnesota, according to The Hill. During his time as governor, Walz has signed a ban on conversion therapy and policies protecting members of the transgender community facing legal challenges in other states, the article said. One of the most notable faith-related policy debates that Walz has been involved in since become Minnesotas governor had to do with church closures during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Religion News Service. Walz was one of many governors who imposed restrictions on worship in his state during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. He was also one of many governors who faced pushback from religious communities, especially conservative ones, the article said. Host Anderson Cooper: You know, it seems like the Trump team is, you know, coalescing around this, you know, obviously this idea of going after [Kamala Harris] on as the most liberal, you know, trying to saddle her with all the criticisms that they were using for the Biden administration. [...] She pushed back today on that in her address. She very quickly pivoted to the [border security] deal, which the former president, which, you know, the bipartisan deal, which he told his members, his Republicans in the Senate not to follow through on and killed that deal. That seems to be what her response is going to be. Is that enough? I mean, clearly she has a record of, you know, statements she made the last time she ran for president that is going to be used against her. Tim Walz: Yes, well, they're going to say whatever they're going to say. We just need to have good proposals. There's things that we can do. I think we need to acknowledge to folks that every nation [state] in the United States needs to control its border. And I will add the northern border, which Minnesota is on. But you can do that using the right tools, and the Lankford-Sinema bill that [Trump] did kill would have done that. The border patrol agents endorsed it. These are folks who know what needs to be done, but he's not interested in solving the problem. What Democrats need to do is acknowledge, and he has ginned up fear, but our border can work better. It doesn't there's no reason someone seeking asylum, which we will always be a guiding light for, shouldn't have to wait seven years to have that adjudicated. That's why this bill would have made it 90 days and people either got it or they were removed. And I think seeing a plan that's out there talking about it with folks, knowing that he's not going to do anything, you know, he talks about this wall, I always say, let me know how high it is. If it's 25 feet, then I'll invest in the 30 foot ladder factory. That's not how you stop this. You stop this using electronics, you stop it using more border control agents, and you stop it by having a legal system that allows for that tradition of allowing folks to come here, just like my relatives did to come here, be able to work and establish the American dream. He's not interested in that. He wants to demonize. Look, we produce most of the turkeys that you're going to eat in Thanksgiving. Those are immigrants working hard, establishing themselves here. What's he going to do? Is he going to take them all out? And how does the economy going to work? These people my neighbors, whether they're Republican or Democrats don't want to demonize their neighbors. They just want a safe border. She's got a plan. The Lankford-Sinema bill was a big key to it, and Donald Trump doesn't want it. He thrives on chaos. The News Critics of Israel claimed a victory when Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz over Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro. It wasnt entirely clear yet what they had won. Dear White Staffers, a social media account run by an employee of Pennsylvania Rep. Summer Lee, had spent days posting anti-Shapiro stories focused on Gaza. It spent Tuesday posting celebratory images of Walz: WE FUCKING DID IT WE FUCKING WON LETS GO LETS GO LETS GO!!!!! The choice between Shapiro and Walz had been elevated by pro-Palestinian progressives as a referendum on whether Harris would antagonize young Gaza activists. This was done without encouragement from Walz, who didnt comment much on Israel as governor and had amassed a relatively ordinary pro-Israel voting record in the House. The main point of distinction was Shapiros harsher words about campus protests. I am now more hopeful that Vice President Harris and Governor Walz will listen to the 83% of Democrats who want a ceasefire, said Rami Al-Kabra, a Palestinian-American city councilor in Washington state, and an uncommitted delegate to the DNC, in a statement. They have an opportunity right now to bring the party together to defeat Trump in November. Watching this dispute play out from the sidelines, Republicans acted quickly to blame the vice presidential choice on antisemitism within the Democratic Party. Kamala Harris listened to the Hamas wing of the party, Ohio Sen. JD Vance told reporters in Philadelphia. She selected Tim Walz. In an interview with the Hill, House Speaker Mike Johnson said that Shapiros heritage was a non-starter for Harris: They have a pro-Palestinian, in some cases pro-Hamas wing of the Democratic Party. In a statement, New York Rep. Mike Lawler claimed that the Pennsylvanian was simply too Jewish and too moderate for the modern Democratic Party. Shapiros Democratic advocates knew that was coming, and saw the criticism as inevitable. Republicans had previewed it for days, as some Gaza ceasefire activists labeled Shapiro Genocide Josh, and warned that he would alienate anti-war voters. The lead-up to the choice put Democrats in an awkward position. Few had any issue with Walz, who drew early praise on Tuesday from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Joe Manchin alike. But some also saw little difference in how the two governors approached the Jewish state, and its war with Hamas, and wondered aloud if Shapiro was being singled out for his last name. Progressive Democrats had also urged supporters in the days leading up to the selection not to reinforce that perception. Tim is a great pick, and will reinforce the Vice Presidents normal, pragmatic approach, said Ohio Rep. Greg Landsman, a Jewish Democrat. Plus, Tim is funny and we could use a little more joy in all of this. That doesnt mean that some of the pushback against Josh wasnt low key antisemitic. Both things can be true. Mark Mellman, the chairman of Democratic Majority for Israel, put out a memo moments after the Walz pick about the governors record a meeting with Benjamin Netanyahu, flying state flags at half-mast after the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks. It was partisan poppycock, he said, to suggest that Harris, who is married to a Jewish man, had made an anti-Israel choice. Shes selected Jewish men for powerful roles in her personal and professional life, Mellman said. To suggest that shes anti-semitic is just absurd. At the same time, he didnt absolve some of Shapiros critics. Vice President Harris had a lot of good choices, said Mellman. She had to pick one. But the level of antisemitic invective around this decision was extraordinary and extremely dangerous. People of good conscience should be condemning that antisemitism. Know More The sped-up Democratic veepstakes werent all about Israel. Walz quickly emerged as the favorite of the partys left; only he and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer had squeezed progressive agendas through swing-state legislatures, and Whitmer took herself out of the running. Shapiros (never-passed) voucher proposal worried some labor organizers, as did his advocacy for business tax cuts. Opponents raised more personal questions, about a top Shapiro aides sexual harassment settlement and a grisly killing investigation that the victims family accused Shapiro of sitting on as AG before recusing himself. But Shapiro had differentiated himself from the field by wading into Israel politics, before anyone knew thered be an opening for vice president. He condemned University of Pennsylvania president Liz Magill for evading a question about whether calls for the genocide of Jews would violate university codes; he asked whether universities would tolerate Gaza protests that violate code if this were people dressed up in KKK outfits. Those statements stuck with Israel critics; Shapiro calling Israels prime minister one of the worst leaders of all time well before Biden dropped out didnt move them. They stepped up their campaign against Shapiro after the Philadelphia Inquirer resurfaced a 1993 column hed written for a college newspaper, calling Palestinians too battle-minded to be able to establish a peaceful homeland of their own. Jonathan Chait, a center-left commentator who supported Shapiro as the VP pick, wrote a column arguing the concerns about him on the left were nonetheless legitimate on their own terms. At a Friday press conference, Shapiro walked his college writings back, saying his views had changed and he wanted Israelis and Palestinians living peacefully side-by-side. That got blowback, too: conservative pundit Ben Shapiro claimed that the governor was desperately trying to un-Jewish himself and win over his partys Hamas wing, a sentiment that traveled widely on the right. For days, maybe even weeks, the guy actually had to run away from his Jewish heritage, Vance snarked at his Philadelphia press conference. The View From Gaza Protestors With Shapiro out of the mix, the left was back to advocating for policy instead of a symbolic victory. Governor Walz has demonstrated a remarkable ability to evolve as a public leader, uniting Democrats diverse coalition to achieve significant milestones for Minnesota families, regardless of their background, said Elianne Farhat, a senior advisor to the Uncommitted delegates protesting the Biden administrations approach to Israel. Its crucial he continues this evolution by supporting an arms embargo on Israel in an effort to unite our party to defeat authoritarianism in the fall. David and Kadia's View Democrats had a fight about identity politics, in public, as they often do. Republicans took advantage of it. This might be more complicated than that, but not very. Shapiros advocates supported him for a number of reasons his personal popularity in a must-win swing state, and a few points of agreement with him on the overall direction of the party. Those advocates frequently thought Shapiro was the obvious choice and wanted the left to back off from attacks that would make it harder to unite the party around him if he ended up on the ticket. That provided an easy entrypoint for Republicans: When Adam Schiff is accusing a party faction of antisemitism, why not amplify it? But Republicans also werent wrong that Israel politics were at the center of Democratic conversations around Shapiro. Democrats outside of the campaign that we talked to in the final days of the veepstakes debated the potential risks of losing Arab American voters in Michigan even as they weighed Shapiros potential benefits in Pennsylvania. It wasnt the only topic one source saw his downfall as national media catching up to his local baggage but it was discussed in blunt terms. Notable The Israel debates are part of a larger race to define Walz in both parties, our team reports. Democrats see him as a unifying pick whose small town teaching roots appeal to swing voters; Republicans are looking to portray his progressive record in Minnesota as a cornucopia of liberal psychosis, as one Trump world source put it. The Israeli consul celebrated Walzs elevation to the ticket, citing his supportive words after the October 7 attack on Southern Israel by hamas. Time for corporations to be removed from US food law and policy, college professor says Andrea Freeman, a professor at Southwestern Law School, takes a deep-dive into how U.S. food policy has limited marginalized communities' access to healthy foods since the 1930s in her new book, "Ruin Their Crops on the Ground: The Politics of Food in the United States From the Trail of Tears, to School Lunch." Taking its title from George Washington's 1779 order to destroy the food sources of Indigenous people, the book examines how the U.S government -- through farm subsidies, schools and nutrition programs -- can sometimes determine how certain groups eat. VIDEO: Calls for corporations to be removed from U.S. food law and policy (ABCNews.com) ABC News sat down with Freeman, who detailed how the government and corporations influence people's food choices. ABC NEWS: Have you ever wondered how the history of U.S. food law impacted the way Americans eat? Well, with over 15 years of research, Andrea Freeman dismantles and argues how the longstanding alliance between the U.S. government and food industries has created health disparities in marginalized communities. It's all in her new book, "Ruin Their Crops on the Ground: The Politics of Food in the United States, From the Trail of Tears to School Lunch." Andrea, thanks so much for joining us. FREEMAN: Thank you for having me. ABC NEWS: Well, it's an impressive book. It's a mouthful for a title. Where did the name of the book come from? FREEMAN: "Ruin Their Crops on the Ground," came from an order that George Washington gave his troops on how to deal with indigenous people. He wanted them to destroy all of their food sources so that they would have to leave, and settlers could take over the land. ABC NEWS: And I guess that's a form of food oppression. We've heard about food deserts, but you talk about food oppression. And what is that that people may not know about? FREEMAN: Yeah, it's about the way that corporations and governments ally together to make laws and policies that have disproportionately harmful effects on marginalized communities. ABC NEWS: So give us some examples on how federal laws -- for example, subsidies, farm subsidies, school subsidies or nutrition programs -- and food policies that sometimes decide what people eat for them. FREEMAN: Absolutely. Two of the main programs that do this are the food distribution program for Indian reservations, which sends boxes of what are called "commods" or basically commodity surpluses to reservations for people who can't access the benefits of SNAP because they don't have enough good grocery stores there. And so those boxes become what people have to eat. They don't really have much choice, and the boxes are not filled with nutritious foods. We see the same thing with the school lunch program, where a large part of the foods that are included in it come from commodity surpluses that are a result of the subsidies that we give to certain crops. And so the school lunches end up looking pretty unhealthy. So tater tots and chicken nuggets and, you know, a lot of the things that the USDA [U.S. Department of Agriculture] is trying to get rid of. ABC NEWS: I mentioned that you've spent decades looking at this. Give us some of the ties between the food industry and the federal government. FREEMAN: Sure. Well, the ... OK, so in the 1930s, we started the Farm Bill, and that created subsidies for certain agricultural corporations. And then those corporations, by focusing on producing the crops that were subsidized, were able to get larger, amass a lot of money, and then amass a lot of power. So even though our nutritional needs have changed a lot -- in the 1930s, it was all about hunger and trying to make people full. Then we saw this shift, and now we have problems of malnutrition, diabetes, obesity and the things that come with that. But the subsidies haven't shifted to healthier foods that would help solve that problem. ABC NEWS: And how do those federal and state laws impact certain Black and Indigenous communities? FREEMAN: So the Indigenous communities, particularly on Indian reservations, are impacted by that program. And in our public schools, we are seeing that in a lot of districts -- for example, where I am in Los Angeles right now -- it's 94% black, Latina, indigenous, student body, only 6% white. So the impacts of having unhealthy food in public school lunches fall very heavily onto those communities. ABC NEWS: We have a very short amount of time left, Andrea, but is there a solution? FREEMAN: I really think we need to get corporations out of our food law and policy. We need to separate those things. We need to separate support of agriculture and health of people. ABC NEWS: It's time to examine those subsidies. Andrea, thank you so much for joining us. And of course, you can purchase "Ruin Their Crops on the Ground: The Politics of Food in the United States, From the Trail of Tears to School Lunch" wherever books are sold. Time for corporations to be removed from US food law and policy, college professor says originally appeared on abcnews.go.com How some TN families can get free diapers with new state program NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) The states new free diaper program goes into effect Wednesday, Aug. 7 for families enrolled in TennCare or CoverKids healthcare, Governor Bill Lees office announced Tuesday. Strong families are the foundation for strong communities, and with our Strong Families Initiative, were taking bold steps to support families like never before by easing the financial burden on new mothers, Lee said in a news release Tuesday. Through responsible management of our TennCare program and the shared savings model, these crucial services will be provided at no additional cost to Tennesseans. Together, well strengthen families and create a brighter future. Knoxville leaders cut ribbon on new affordable housing development How many diapers and how? The program is part of Lees Strong Families Initiative. It will provide 100 diapers per month to participating families. TennCare is the first Medicaid program in the nation to offer the benefit, thanks to the states TennCare III Medicaid waiver, which rewards Tennessee through shared savings. Which diapers? The brands of diapers to be provided are select lines and sizes of Huggies and Cuties; however, other brands including Pampers and Luvs will be added over time. TennCare is partnering with pharmacies across the state to give members easy access to the free diapers. Townsend launches survey to guide updates to long-term community plan How can participating families sign up for free diapers? Governor Lees office said Tuesday that TennCare or CoverKids members can walk into any participating pharmacy and show their childs OptumRx TennCare pharmacy card or provide their childs social security number at the pharmacy. For new parents waiting on a TennCare ID for their newborn, they can temporarily use their own TennCare pharmacy ID card or social security number. No prescription is required. Which pharmacies are participating? For a list of participating pharmacies and more information on the diaper initiative, visit TennCares website here. RELATED | Tennessee to provide free diapers for some families The state says TennCare will be updating its website frequently as additional diaper brands and participating pharmacies are added throughout the free diaper programs implementation. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side. Today is Election Day: What you need to know about Michigan's August primary Happy Election Day, Michigan! Today is Michigan's August primary election. On the ballot today are Republican and Democratic primaries for one of Michigan's U.S. Senate seats, congressional districts and state House of Representatives seats. There are also local races on the ballot, depending on your jurisdiction. To see what is on your ballot, enter your address at the Michigan Voter Information Center at michigan.gov/vote. Here's a guide on what you need to know how to vote, how to find your polling place, what time polls are open and more: How does a primary election work? Primary elections decide which candidate gets to represent a major party on the ballot come November. Whoever receives the most votes today in primaries for U.S. Senate, congressional districts and state House districts will go on to the November general election. Michigan has open primaries, meaning you do not have to register affiliation with a political party to vote in that party's primary. But you can only vote in a single party's primary when you fill out your ballot at the polls today, you'll only be able to fill out a single party's side on the partisan section of the ballot. This means if you wanted to cast a vote in the Republican Senate primary, for example, you'd have to cast votes in the other respective Republican primaries on your ballot otherwise, your votes in partisan primary races won't count. Voters can vote in a party's primary in the August election, but vote for a different party come November, should they choose to. What time do polls open in Michigan? Polls are open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. local time in Michigan. If you are in line at 8 p.m., you are still permitted to vote. Where can I find my local polling place? You can find your polling precinct by visiting the Michigan Voter Information Center at michigan.gov/vote. There, you can enter your address and the site will provide your polling place. On Election Day, in-person voting must take place at your assigned polling place. Bigger cities and townships typically have multiple polling locations, so make sure you arrive at the correct one. What should I expect at the polls? Once you arrive at the polls, you'll be asked to sign in with local election workers. The election staff will provide you with a ballot or another option to vote if additional accommodation is needed. You will be asked to provide a form of photo ID to vote. If you don't have an ID, you can still vote. You'll be asked to sign a form verifying your identity. Here's a list of valid forms of photo ID, according to the Michigan Secretary of State's Office: Michigan driver's license or state ID (may be expired) Driver's license or state ID issued by another state Federal, state or local government-issued photo ID U.S. passport Military photo ID Photo ID from an educational institution Tribal photo ID Can I still register to vote in Michigan on Election Day? Yes! In Michigan, you can register to vote up until polls close on Election Day at your local clerk's office with proof of residency. If you're unsure if you're already registered to vote, you can check your registration status by visiting the Michigan Voter Information Center at michigan.gov/vote. There, you can also find your local clerk's office. First, make sure you are eligible to vote. To register to vote in Michigan, you must be: A U.S. citizen A Michigan resident for at least 30 days by the time you vote At least 17.5 years old, and be 18 by Election Day Not currently serving a jail or prison sentence Within 14 days of an election (including on Election Day itself), you must provide proof of residency. This can include: Your Michigan drivers license or state ID A current utility bill A bank statement A paycheck or government check Another government document At your local clerk's office, you can register to vote and request an absentee ballot on Election Day itself. Speaking of which... You can turn in your absentee ballot at a dropbox or clerk's office until polls close Michigan has no-reason absentee voting, meaning voters can choose to fill out an absentee (sometimes called absent-voter) ballot. Absentee ballots can be returned at a local clerk's office, at a secure dropbox, or through the mail. But on Election Day, and within two weeks of an election, it's recommended to submit your absentee ballot either at your local clerk's office or at a dropbox location to avoid any delays with the mail. Voters can submit their absentee ballot at a dropbox or at their local clerk's office up until 8 p.m., when polls close on Election Day. To find a secure dropbox location, visit the Michigan Voter Information Center at michigan.gov.vote. Contact Arpan Lobo: alobo@freepress.com. Looking for more on Michigans elections this year? Check out our voter guide, subscribe to our elections newsletter and always feel free to share your thoughts in a letter to the editor. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Election Day: How to vote in Michigan's August primary On Aug. 6, 1945, the United States dropped the worlds first atomic bomb over the city of Hiroshima. U.S. President Harry Truman decided to use the atom bomb to force an unconditional surrender from Japan. At 8:16 AM on Aug. 6, the B-29 bomber Enola Gay (named for her pilots mother) dropped the bomb known as Little Boy over Hiroshima, killing 80,000 people instantly and another 60,000 over the following weeks from the effects of the fallout. Hiroshima was selected as a target to deliberately demonstrate the power of the weapon by causing the most physical destruction but also as a psychological attack against the people and decision-makers of Japan. The blast was so intense, human shadows are marked permanently on the ground and walls left standing. Radiation poisoning caused a significant number of deaths in the weeks following the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The effects of radiation are varied, ranging from milder symptoms like gastrointestinal distress, fever, headaches and hair loss, but up to and including death. Because radiation can cause a drop in the number of blood cells produced, wounds heal more slowly than normal. The effects were devastating but it would take a second atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki several days later before Emperor Hirohito finally surrendered, ending World War II. Paul Tibbets in front of the Enola Gay, 1945. US Air Force photo/National Archives and Records Administration. Public Domain. The pilot of the Enola Gay, Paul Tibbets, died in January 2007, after having retired from the Air Force in 1966. Instead of being interred at home or at Arlington National Cemetery with all his brothers in arms, he was cremated and his ashes spread across the English Channel. The elder Tibbets was concerned that any grave or headstone he left behind would become ground zero for anti-nuclear weapons protests, anti-war protesters or a place for any other kind of revision historian to make a stand against what he saw as the right history. Instead of that, he opted to be cremated and his ashes spread where he had flown so often during the war. There were many survivor accounts of Hiroshima, such as August 6, written by Toge Sankichi: August 6 By: TOGE Sankichi, translated by Karen Thornber can we forget that flash? suddenly 30,000 in the streets disappeared in the crushed depths of darkness the shrieks of 50,000 died out when the swirling yellow smoke thinned buildings split, bridges collapsed packed trains rested singed and a shoreless accumulation of rubble and embers Hiroshima before long, a line of naked bodies walking in groups, crying with skin hanging down like rags hands on chests stamping on crumbled brain matter burnt clothing covering hips corpses lie on the parade ground like stone images of Jizo, dispersed in all directions on the banks of the river, lying one on top of another, a group that had crawled to a tethered raft also gradually transformed into corpses beneath the suns scorching rays and in the light of the flames that pierced the evening sky the place where mother and younger brother were pinned under alive also was engulfed in flames and when the morning sun shone on a group of high-school girls who had fled and were lying on the floor of the armory, in excrement their bellies swollen, one eye crushed, half their bodies raw flesh with skin ripped off, hairless, impossible to tell who was who all had stopped moving in a stagnant, offensive smell the only sound the wings of flies buzzing around metal basins city of 300,000 can we forget that silence? in that stillness the powerful appeal of the white eye sockets of the wives and children who did not return home that tore apart our hearts can it be forgotten?! TOGE Sankichi (1917 1953) was a Japanese poet, activist and survivor of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. His collection Poems of the Atomic Bomb was published in 1951. Karen Thornber is a recipient of the 2011 Sibley Prize from the University of Chicago for her translation of that collection. Featured Image: An atomic cloud rises over Hiroshima after the bomb is dropped. (509th Operations Group) How Tommy Robinson gave away he was hiding at luxury Cyprus hotel while stoking UK riots My kids are crying, wrote Tommy Robinson from a luxury five-star holiday resort after photographs emerged revealing he had been hiding out in Cyprus. We come (sic) here so I could spend some quality time with them. Now they are scared people are coming here to get them. Scenes from Robinsons hotel appear to match those from images of a luxury resort in Cyprus (X/TripAdvisor) The anti-Islam activist has been accused of stoking far-right riots across the UK from outside the country while holed up in the 400-a-night Mediterranean hotel. Tommy Robinsons hotel room matches that of a high-end resort (Twitter/Trip Advisor) Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is thought to have left Britain last week ahead of a scheduled hearing in a contempt of court case. A warrant has been issued for his arrest. The English Defence League founder claimed his family feared they were in danger after the location where he was hiding was revealed on Sunday. But despite his protestations, it appears Robinsons own social media activity may have provided clues to his whereabouts. Promotional photographs of the resort appear to show a waterslide and gym seen in the background of posts he shared with his followers last week. The decor of hotel room where he filmed an interview with far-right US conspiracy theorist Alex Jones also appears to match the shots. Follow live coverage of UK riots here During the conversation with Jones, Robinson asked viewers for donations and complained his location had been made public. Tommy Robinsons gym selfies helped may have helped locate him (X/Trip Advisor) Asked what happens now, he replied: Ill be in jail, Alex, thats what comes next. I think it will be the worst thing they can do. It will galvanise our support the people arent backing down. If people cant see that. Theyve tried to crush [disorder] but the protests have got bigger and more violent. Politicians have demanded the recall of Parliament in the face of continuing anti-immigrant unrest (PA Wire) He said he expects the number of people hitting the streets to double in size in the coming days adding: Theres a revolution brewing in the United Kingdom. Ive made video after video asking it to be peaceful, not violent. We are losing our country, we are losing our culture, we are losing our identity. Robinson has been publishing running commentary and videos documenting the riots, describing the disorder as a result of legitimate concerns and calling for mass deportations. Damage at the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham (Dave Higgens/PA Wire) Campaigners have accused him of playing an important role in inciting violence directed at ethnic minority groups in the UK over the past week in the wake of the Southport stabbings, which left three young children dead. Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, 17, who was born in Cardiff, is accused carrying out the attack, but false claims spread online that the suspect was an asylum seeker of Muslim faith who had arrived in the UK by small boat in 2023. Several of the demonstrations have targeted mosques. Hotels housing asylum seekers in Tamworth and Rotherham were also subject to violent disorder on Sunday. Sabby Dhalu, co-convenor of Stand up to Racism told The Independent: Tommy Robinson is deliberately stoking up racism and Islamophobia, whilst on the run. Its no accident that the riots took place days after Robinson mobilised 15,000 in Trafalgar Square last week. Fascists are emboldened. Colorado's second-highest court on Thursday determined the $5.7 million a trial judge awarded a subcontractor for its work on the Regional Transportation District's commuter rail expansion is invalid because the company initially sought more than two times that amount without any basis for doing so. (Illustration via Getty Images) After the assassination attempt on former President Trump, many of our leaders were calling for politicians to tone down the personal rhetoric to reduce the potential for more political violence. Totally eliminating the combative language and imagery that has proven successful for many politicians is unrealistic. However, prioritizing policy discussions over personal attacks could reduce tensions and inform the public as to what they are voting for, and not just against. Even the often fiery and rhetorical Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont, alluded to the importance of emphasizing policy when he condemned the assassination attempt by saying politics should be kind of boring. Boring maybe, but what if policy discussions could be infused with a similar emotional appeal as the personal attacks [Disclaimer: as a career health policy researcher, I have pined for a time when policy discussions might be seen as an exciting part of our political dialogue]. For this election, unlike any since Grover Cleveland vs. Benjamin Harrison in 1892, we have an evidence base for both candidates of the priorities and accomplishments of the first terms informing our perspective on the potential policies and actions during a second term. We must remind ourselves that this is not a personality contest as if we were voting for high school class president. We are voting for an entire administration, from the secretary of defense to the secretary of agriculture. We are voting for people who must instantaneously respond to the events of the moment while developing aspirational policies for the future. We should learn from Teddy Roosevelts improvised remarks as he stood with a bullet in his chest on a stage in Milwaukee in 1912 as he ran for a second non-consecutive term: Friends, I will disown and repudiate any man of my party who attacks with such foul slander and abuse any opponent of any other party; and now I wish to say seriously to all the daily newspapers, to the Republicans, the Democrat, and Socialist parties, that they cannot, month-in month-out and year-in and year-out, make the kind of untruthful, of bitter assault that they have made and not expect that brutal, violent natures, or brutal and violent characters, especially when the brutality is accompanied by a not very strong mind; they cannot expect that such natures will be unaffected by it. If I speak of Mr. Wilson, I speak with no mind of bitterness. I merely want to discuss the difference of policy between the Progressive and the Democratic party and to ask you to think for yourselves which party you will follow. I ask you to look at our declaration and hear and read our platform about social and industrial justice and then, friends, vote for the Progressive ticket without regard to me, without regard to my personality, for only by voting for that platform can you be true to the cause of progress throughout this Union. What if one or both of our current candidates followed this example and said they were going to lean into the success of their past policies and inspire us with new policies for the future instead of political name calling. They could say, for the rest of this campaign, here are the policies we will emphasize in a second term to deal with our most challenging issues, in contrast to those of our opponent. For example: NATO engagement and the war in Ukraine lean toward withdrawal and isolation vs. continued collaboration with allies; K-12 education encourage privatization vs. supporting a public model; Health care access and affordability continue expanding insurance coverage vs. decreasing support for the Affordable Care Act; Tax policy across-the-board tax cuts vs. targeted cuts for those with low and middle incomes; Immigration reform build a wall vs. comprehensive bipartisan reform; Affordable housing for people at virtually all income levels does either party want to talk about this? Solvency for the Medicare and Social Security trust funds OK, no one wants to touch these third rails during a campaign. Both political parties can still speak to the identity politics of their base and emotionally inspire them by sharing how their policies will positively impact their constituent groups in a real way. They could emphasize: How their education policies will impact families of color for decades to come; How their health care policies will impact the cost of health care for suburban white voters; How their foreign policies will affect trade and boost rural economies; How their immigration policy will positively affect the needs of the high tech sector, while at the same time, providing an industrial labor force for low tech jobs. The challenge of moving in a policy direction was clearly demonstrated on the first evening of the Republican National Convention when Sen Ron Johnson, R-Wisconsin, welcomed the crowd on the day focused on unity by declaring that Democratic Party policies are a clear and present danger to America and they weaponized government. We also saw that challenge when Vice-President Kamala Harris, in her first major address as the likely Democratic nominee, played prosecutor and alluded to former President Donald Trump by saying she had taken on predators who abused women, fraudsters who ripped off consumers, cheaters who broke the rules for their own gain. These kinds of statements rile up the base but do not educate or excite us about their policies if elected. Even though the amount and vehemence of the personal rhetoric has been asymmetrical, the gain is there for both parties. Trump had the chance in his closing remarks at the convention to inspire those in the middle during his unifying message but couldnt hold on past the first 20 minutes before returning to the personal rants of his rallies. Can the Democrats do any better at their convention? Once the spectacles of the political conventions are finished, and the sprint to Nov. 5 is underway, lets encourage the candidates to differentiate themselves by toning down the personal attacks and conspiracy theories and reduce the chance for more political violence by prioritizing intelligent, inspiring conversation. Its what voters say they wantand it just might be a winning strategy to attract the few remaining undecided voters. Toni Atkins outraises her fellow Democrats in the race to become California governor Good morning and welcome to the A.M. Alert! ATKINS RAKES IN MORE CASH THAN CAMPAIGN RIVALS Former Senate President pro Tem Toni Atkins, D-San Diego, who is running for California governor in 2026, announced that her campaign has outstripped her Democratic rivals when it comes to fundraising, bringing in $1.6 million between Jan. 1 and June 30 of this year. Thats more than Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis ($1.4 million), former Controller Betty Yee ($593, 691) and Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond ($317,863). Its also more than the recent $1.5 million fundraising haul by race newcomer Antonio Villaraigosa. While its still early in the gubernatorial race, since theres this whole 2024 election to get through first, Atkins fundraising prowess is likely to offer her a sizable advantage in her bid to become the first woman to be elected governor of the Golden State. CONSUMER WATCHDOG NOTCHES A WIN Via Stephen Hobbs... Consumer Watchdog, the outspoken advocacy organization that often challenges insurance companies trying to raise prices for automobile and home coverage, came away with a win Friday. The Department of Insurance re-affirmed that it believes the organization represents the interests of Californians. That will allow Consumer Watchdog the chance to receive money when protesting price hikes. Those challenges are under increased scrutiny as the state faces a turbulent insurance market. The departments approval wasnt guaranteed. The agency gave outside groups the chance to comment on Consumer Watchdogs status. And insurance industry officials responded with scathing criticism, arguing the organization was driven by self-interest. Despite not siding with the industry, the department raised concerns in an order granting the approval. Consumer Watchdog states it has no members. It is unclear how an organization with no members can represent the interests of consumers if they are not accountable to the consumers they claim to represent. Carmen Balber, Consumer Watchdogs executive director, said the department was parroting complaints from the insurance industry. There is no legitimate way to question whether Consumer Watchdog speaks for consumers, Balber said. KOUNALAKIS PAC LAUNCHES ANTI-VANCE AD Kounalakis may be running for governor in 2026, but that doesnt mean shes sitting out the 2024 election. In fact, her Californians for Choice PAC just released an ad, titled Counting On Us, slamming Ohio Republican Sen. JD Vance, former President Donald Trumps vice presidential nominee, over the senators anti-abortion stance. The 30-second spot features Kounalakis saying Its time to fight for Kamala Harris and all California Democrats, because the women of America are counting on us. Harris is the Democrats nominee for president. Abortion is likely to be a top talking point for Democrats since its a perceived weak point for Trump. Californians strongly favor the right of pregnant people to obtain abortions, with nearly 67% of state voters voting in 2022 for Proposition 1, the ballot measure to enshrine the right to an abortion in the state Constitution. Kounalakis family has been a major supporter of Harris; in January this year, Kounalakis father, Angelo Tsakopoulos, hosted Harris for a fundraiser. According to Kounalakis spokesman David Beltran of Bearstar Strategies, the Californians for Choice ad is running statewide on both cable and online. The PAC is spending between $500,000 and $1 million on the ad buy. You can watch the ad here. QUOTE OF THE DAY Google is a monopoly. And corporate surveillance is at the root of their monopoly power. Todays court decision is great step toward ending Big Techs rein of terror and breaking the stranglehold that monopolies like Google have over the Internet. - Evan Greer, director of digital rights advocacy group Fight for the Future, discussing Mondays court ruling that Googles search engine functions as an illegal monopoly in a statement. Best of The Bee: New audit ordered by Sacramento State shows more financial issues at Capital Public Radio, via Stephen Hobbs . Gavin Newsom has a plan to lower California electricity bills. Heres what it would do, via Ari Plachta . The California Legislature returns this week. Here are 3 things you should know, via Andrew Sheeler . To deter retail theft, Sacramento County sheriff is putting up 20 billboards. Will it help? Via Ishani Desai. TOPEKA (KSNT) A Topeka laundromat is bubbling up with frustration; one owner said water main problems are hurting his business. The City of Topeka told 27 News another leak was found in the water main at Southwest 21st Street and Southwest Westport Drive. Water has been shut off in the area since around 4 p.m. Monday so contractors could fix it. This is the second major issue with this particular water main in just one week. KSNT 27 News spoke to the owner of the Aquablast Laundromat, Tracy Chamberlin, who said water has been off-and-on since last Wednesday. He said its tough to run a laundromat without any water. What to know about Polk-Quincy viaduct construction in 2025 He said he understands water main problems happen, but not knowing when it will come back on is the most frustrating part. We cant even tell our customers, you know, come back tomorrow, Chamberlin said. You start factoring in Wednesday night, Thursday night, Friday night and now Monday night, and basically all day Saturday. It is very painful for our business. Chamberlin told 27 News the laundromat has no water as of 10 p.m. Monday, Aug. 5. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. TOPEKA (KSNT) The Topeka Police Department (TPD) is releasing new information following reports of a suspicious death on Monday. The TPD said in a press release on Tuesday, Aug. 6 the deceased individual was a 15-year-old boy from Topeka. Police have yet to release the name of the shooting victim. The investigation into the death is ongoing. Police were called around 3:15 p.m. on Aug. 5 to the 2400 block of SE Bellview Avenue on reports of a shooting. Officers arriving at the scene found one person suffering from a gunshot injury who was declared dead at the scene. Initially, police reported this death as being suspicious. This embedded content is not available in your region. Wife of Fort Riley soldier shares story after deadly I-70 crash You can contact police with information on this recent incident by sending an email to telltpd@topeka.org or by calling 785-368-9400. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007 or by clicking here. For more crime news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. Take cover, a tornado warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Melbourne at 6:44 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 6. That includes the following areas: Brevard, Orange and Seminole counties. The NWS recommends: "TAKE COVER NOW! Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris." See weather radar for Brevard County, Florida What are meteorologists saying about tornado warning? At 6:44 a.m., the NWS issued a statement: The National Weather Service in Melbourne has issued a tornado warning for the following areas: Northwestern Brevard County in east central Florida Southeastern Seminole County in east central Florida East central Orange County in east central Florida The warning is in effect until 7 a.m. EDT. At 6:44 a.m. EDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Bithlo, moving east at 35 mph. What hazards are associated with the tornado warning in Brevard County, Florida? HAZARD: Tornado. SOURCE: Radar indicated rotation. IMPACTS: Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely. This dangerous storm will be near Wedgefield, Bithlo, and Christmas around 6:50 a.m. EDT." If you are in the area, take cover immediately. The warning is expected to remain in effect until 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 6. How do you stay safe during a tornado? During a tornado, the NWS recommends: Get as low as possible. A basement below ground level or the lowest floor of a building offers the greatest safety. Put as many walls between yourself and the outside as possible. Avoid windows. What should you do if you're driving during a tornado warning? If you're driving, particularly on interstates or highways, do not try to outrun a tornado. If you are driving in an area with a tornado warning, you should look for ways to safely get off the road and out of your vehicle, preferably by seeking refuge in a sturdy building. As a last resort, lie flat in the nearest depression, ditch or culvert and cover your head with your arms. What is the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning? A tornado warning is issued when a tornado is either sighted or indicated on radar, meaning there is imminent danger to life and property. If you are in the area of a tornado warning, take cover immediately in the lowest floor of a sturdy building. If you are outdoors, in a vehicle or a mobile home, move to the closest sturdy shelter and take cover. A tornado watch is issued when the environment is capable of producing tornadoes. If you are located in the area of a tornado watch, the NWS recommends having a plan in place in the event a tornado forms. Be ready to act quickly if a tornado warning is issued. Reporters Diane Pantaleo and Jana Hayes contributed to this article. This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a template written and reviewed by an editor. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Tornado warning issued for Brevard area Karen Zimmerman (second from the right), Theresa Zwaska (fourth from the right), and other volunteers with the Tosa Community Food Pantry stocked the shelves at the pantry's new location at Wauwatosa Avenue United Methodist Church, 1600 Underwood Ave., on August 1. When volunteers with the Tosa Community Food Pantry heard the St. Bernard Church would close and be sold to a developer, they had no doubt theyd find a new place to distribute food. We know theres still a need, Karen Zimmerman, the pantrys board secretary said. Wauwatosa Avenue United Methodist Church, 1600 Underwood Ave., is where to find the food pantry now, just a few blocks from St. Bernard, 7474 Harwood Ave. The newly located pantry opened for service Saturday, Aug. 3. The Tosa Community Food Pantry had provided food to individuals in need from the St. Bernard church building since 1983. Each week, people who live in the 53213, 53222, 53225 and 53226 ZIP codes and meet requirements set by Hunger Task Force come in to shop for groceries. Depending on the number of people in their household, clients walk away with bags of tuna, beef and other proteins, as well as vegetables, butter, eggs and other groceries, said Theresa Zwaska, who volunteers with the pantry. The pantry has always been organized by members of many churches throughout the area, Zimmerman said. Volunteers with the pantry started asking around to see if a new church would house the pantry when Rev. Phillip Bogacki, the St. Bernard Parish pastor, announced the church would merge with Christ King Parish and sell the Harwood Ave. site to a developer. The buyer was later identified as Milwaukee-based Three Leaf Partners, which plans to start construction on a three-story multi-family apartment building later this year. The Tosa Community Food Pantry found its new home at Wauwatosa Avenue United Methodist Church, 1600 Underwood Ave., following the announced closure of St. Bernard Church, its former site. The new space for the Tosa Community Food Pantry is larger Zimmerman said the pantry board looked for a space that would be accessible for their clients. The new pantry space at Wauwatosa Avenue United Methodist is bigger than the last, is still located on a bus route and has the option of a ramp or a few stairs clients can use to enter. Rev. Kate Jones, the pastor of Wauwatosa Avenue United Methodist, is eager to welcome the food pantry to her church. "We are delighted the pantry is here," Jones said Aug. 1, as pantry volunteers finished stocking the new shelves. I'm just kind of heartbroken for the folks that are losing their church. But I think this space will work well." The church will host a community meal and celebration Monday, Aug. 19 at Wauwatosa Avenue United Methodist to commemorate the Tosa Community Food Pantry's new location. They'll also take time to honor the past. Well thank St. Bernard's for the many years of hosting, and bless them," and then make way for a new season, Jones told a Journal Sentinel reporter. The event is open to all, including guests of the pantry, the pantry board, the major donor organizations, church members and members of the public. When is the Tosa Community Food Pantry open? Hours of operation are Mondays from 1 to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 to 11 a.m. The entrance to the food pantry is at 1600 Underwood Ave. The Tosa Community Food Pantry found its new home at Wauwatosa Avenue United Methodist Church, 1600 Underwood Ave., following the announced closure of St. Bernard Church, its former site. Who can shop at the Tosa Community Food Pantry? Since the pantry is a part of the Hunger Task Force network, there are certain documents individuals must bring with them to get groceries. Zimmerman said the group does not turn away individuals in an emergency who need food but don't live in one of the four zip codes. "If they need food, we've got food, Zimmerman said. Those who are looking to get food from the Tosa Community Food Pantry must: Be a resident of one of the following ZIP codes: 53213, 53222, 53225 or 53226 Meet income requirements of the Emergency Food Assistance Program Present a photo ID Present a current utility bill with name, date and address Call the pantry at 414-453-0700 or email them at tosacommunityfoodpantry@gmail.com with questions. How can I donate to the Tosa Community Food Pantry? Food or monetary donations can be made to the pantry. Monetary donations can be sent to Tosa Community Food Pantry, P.O. Box 13051, Wauwatosa, WI 53213. For more information, visit tosacommunityfoodpantry.org/ You can also drop off food donations during pantry hours on Mondays from 1 to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 to 11 a.m. According to its website, the pantry is always in need of non-perishable food items such as: Low sodium canned vegetables Low sugar canned fruits Canned soups Canned protein, such as tuna and chicken, chili and stew Peanut butter and jelly Dried beans Whole grain pasta and pasta sauce Dried fruit Bridget Fogarty covers Brookfield, Wauwatosa and Elm Grove for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. She can be contacted at bfogarty@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Same mission but a new location for Tosa Community Food Pantry Tractor stolen in Madison County recovered six years later JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) Agents with the Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau (MALTB) assisted federal agencies to execute a search warrant in Hinds County. They recovered a 2018 Kubota tractor valued at $38,000. According to investigators, the tractor had been reported stolen to the Madison County Sheriffs Office in August 2018. The search warrant was a joint effort of operation involving the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; Office of Homeland Security; and Jackson Police Department. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. Interstate 285 lanes are shut down as Atlanta police investigate a crash involving multiple vehicles. Triple Team Traffics Mike Shields guided you around this crash on Channel 2 Action News This Morning. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The crash happened around 6 a.m. near Jonesboro Road an hour after a separate crash in the same area. Shields reported that at least six cars were involved in the second crash. Two left lanes open around 7:15 a.m. but heavy delays remain in the area. Channel 2 Action News has reached out to Atlanta police and the Georgia State Patrol to learn more about this investigation. It is unclear when the traffic will clear. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: Trail cameras capture encouraging footage of one of the rarest large mammal species in the world and it comes with a surprise A rare sighting on a trail camera has given conservationists hope that a critically endangered animal is still growing its herd. In early March, a trail camera located in Ujung Kulon National Park in western Indonesia captured a rare female Javan rhinoceros and its calf. Native to the area, the Javan rhinoceros has been labeled as critically endangered by the World Wildlife Fund with only approximately 76 of the species alive. Out of the five existing species of rhinos, Javan rhinos are considered to be the most threatened by extinction. The beautiful animal is known for its gray coloring and loose folding skin, which almost looks like armor. It can also be characterized by a single horn that measures up to around 10 inches. The Indonesia Ministry of Environment and Forestry announced the encouraging sighting of the endangered beast in an April news release, saying it was the result of tireless efforts to protect and support the rhinos. "This is good news and proves that the Javan rhino, which only exists in Ujung Kulon, can develop well and sustainably," said Satyawan Pudyatmoko, director general of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation, according to a translation from Google Translate. In the footage, the mother rhino can be seen walking in front of the camera with her baby trailing behind. The young rhino flaps its ears before its mother backs up and the two trot back through the forest. The baby rhino, which had never been seen before, was estimated to be three to five months old at the time, though its sex was unknown. The sighting is encouraging for rhino conservationists, as it confirms the endangered species is still growing its herd in the park. Two other baby rhinos were spotted in 2021, 2022, and 2023. These rare trail sightings show how vitally important it is to keep the habitat of these rhinos safe. Satyawan said the endangered animals are still facing threats from hunters, predators, diseases, and natural disasters. The latter includes extreme weather events, which are made more likely and more intense by human-caused pollution. As a result, it is our job to continue to conserve these parks to protect the Javan rhino. "For that, we and all parties who help in the Javan rhino conservation efforts must not be careless and always anticipate any threats that may occur," Satyawan said. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. New travel option opens for southwest Las Vegas neighborhood ahead of new school year LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A new travel option for some students headed back to the classroom is now open. Tenaya Paseo Bridge located in the southwest Las Vegas valley will give students and families in the Mountains Edge community a new option when heading to school, including those attending Gunderson Middle School. Southwest Las Vegas improvement project wraps up with traffic light near schools The bridge gives students the option to avoid Buffalo Drive but travel from the south side of Mountains Edge across the Paseo between Rainbow Boulevard and Buffalo Drive on a path for walkers and bikers. The trail is at the mid-block crosswalk on Cactus Avenue, between Rainbow Boulevard and Buffalo Drive. This embedded content is not available in your region. During the 2023-2024 school year, the Clark County School District middle school with the highest number of students hit was Gunderson Middle School which had 14 children hit in total, 12 of which were riding bikes, and one pedestrian and one scooter rider, according to the Road Equity Alliance Project. Clark County leaders, local law enforcement, and families will celebrate the new route to travel on 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 KLAS. FILE - Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen attends a ceremony at the Danish monument outside of Sainte Marie du Mont, Normandy, Thursday, June 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Jeremias Gonzalez, File) COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) The trial of a Polish man accused of punching Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in the shoulder in June began Tuesday, with Frederiksen not expected to appear in court. She suffered a minor whiplash injury when a man assaulted her in central Copenhagen on June 7 and canceled her schedule for the next few days. The Ekstra Bladet newspaper said the unidentified 39-year-old Polish man is charged with punching Frederiksen's right shoulder with a clenched fist, causing her to lose her balance, but not fall. Defense lawyer Henrik Karl Nielsen told Copenhagen District Court that his client pleaded not guilty, it said. The Polish man, who has been living in Denmark for five years, told the court that he was intoxicated by alcohol but not drunk and was just wandering around when he saw Frederiksen, Danish public broadcaster DR reported. A police officer assigned to Frederiksens protection told the court that she had stopped to talk on the phone when the man walked up to her and hit her after saying something incomprehensible. In the situation, it seemed he was angry, the bodyguard, identified only by his police number KF081, told the court, according to DR. The Polish man was immediately arrested. Frederiksen was taking a break from campaigning for her Social Democratic Party in European Parliament elections when the assault occurred at a busy downtown Copenhagen plaza. The attack was not linked to the campaign event. The man, who has been held in pretrial custody since the assault, also faces other charges including sexual harassment by exposing himself to passing people and groping a woman at a commuter train station, and fraud involving deposit-marked bottles and cans at two supermarkets. He has confessed to those charges. Prosecutors said the suspect has 22 previous convictions for petty crimes, mainly shoplifting, DR reported. He told the court that his parents live in Denmark and his wife and daughter are in Poland. Frederiksen, 46, is the leader of the Social Democratic Party and has been Denmarks prime minister since 2019. She led the country through the global COVID-19 pandemic and a controversial 2020 decision to wipe out Denmarks entire captive mink population to minimize the risk of the mammals spreading the virus. The trial is scheduled to end Wednesday, when a verdict is expected. The assault came as violence against politicians spread in the runup to the EU elections. In May, a candidate from Germanys center-left Social Democrats was beaten and seriously injured while campaigning. In Slovakia, the campaign was overshadowed by an attempt to assassinate populist Prime Minister Robert Fico on May 15, sending shockwaves through the nation and reverberating throughout Europe. Fico was shot in the abdomen and seriously wounded. The suspect was immediately arrested and faces terror charges. Assaults on politicians in Denmark are rare. On March 23, 2003, two activists threw red paint at then-Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen inside parliament and were immediately arrested. Tropical Storm Debby made landfall as a Category 1 Hurricane in the Big Bend Region of Florida near the town of Steinhatchee around 7 A.M. EDT Monday morning. This region of the Sunshine State is sparsely populated, so this thankfully prevented widespread structural wind damage from the intense 80 mph storm. However, many coastal locations in the northwestern Florida peninsula recorded 6-10 feet of storm surge as it barreled onshore, inundating homes and businesses along much of the western Florida coast. Debby has now weakened to a tropical storm with sustained winds of 45 mph as of 10 PM Monday evening. At this time, it was located over extreme north Florida, near the Georgia state line, continuing to slow its forward speed which only prolongs the impacts heading into the middle and end of this week. Debby is forecast to continue tracking northeast, wobbling off the US coast, and briefly strengthening over the Atlantic Ocean as it slows to a mere crawl near the Carolinas Tuesday through Thursday. It will then move back into South Carolina before gaining speed and heading north toward the D.C. area later this week. The overall setup explains why this tropical system will struggle to keep trucking northward. Two strong ridges of high pressure located both to the west and east of Debby is forcing the tropical storm to remain squeezed in between, causing the steering currents to significantly weaken and nearly collapse over the Southeast US. A glancing trough over the Northeast US contains the stronger wind shear needed for Debby to become captured and guided along at a faster speed. Therefore, until Debby can push further north into the Mid-Atlantic region, it will greatly struggle to maintain any momentum and could even stall from time to time. As the tropical storm moves back over very warm ocean waters midweek, the lack of wind shear will allow Debby to strengthen slightly, keeping gusty winds in excess of 50 mph and a storm surge threat from coastal Georgia to the coastal Carolinas. Up to three feet of storm surge is expected from Savannah to southern South Carolina. Meanwhile, areas from Georgetown, SC to Wilmington, NC should only expect around a foot of storm surge. The most problematic concern moving forward will become the flooding threat as Debby slows down. As it continues to draw in copious amounts of deep tropical moisture from the Atlantic, several inches of rain are expected with widespread catastrophic flooding from Savannah to Wilmington. Many coastal locations from Georgia to North Carolina can expect 10-20 of rain while a handful of spots receive upwards of 20 through the end of this week. Although coastal communities will get the brunt of the flooding impacts, many areas further inland, especially the South Carolina Low Country, will also be at risk for unprecedented flooding. While Debby may not be remembered for the wind and storm surge impacts, the forecast widespread flooding will make this storm go down in history as a prolific rainfall producer. Be sure to follow the CBS 42 Storm Team: Follow Us on Facebook: Chief Meteorologist Dave Nussbaum, Meteorologist Michael Haynes, Meteorologist Alex Puckett, and Meteorologist Jacob Woods. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)- The threat of intense flooding remains in the Lowcountry as Tropical Storm Debby continues its slow crawl along and off the South Carolina coast. The storms center was located about 70 miles south-southwest of Charleston at 11 p.m. Tuesday, moving east at 5 mph, according to the National Hurricane Centers latest advisory. It has maximum sustained winds of nearly 40 mph with some higher gusts. A tropical storm warning remains in effect. The storm is moving slowly offshore the coast of Georgia and South Carolina on Tuesday night where it is expected to linger for a few days. Once that happens, we think its going to meander for a couple of days and that will increase our rain threat as we see the back side of the storm come on through as well, Storm Team 2 Chief Meteorologist Rob Fowler said. Tropical Storm Debby hotline activated in South Carolina It is then forecast to move back inland and make another landfall in South Carolina on Thursday morning. While it could strengthen some, Fowler said he does not think the storm will get far enough offshore to tap into the warm air and warm water in the Gulf Stream. Pockets of showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue through Friday morning. Storm Team 2 Vipir Radar shows that an estimated 5 inches to 14 inches of precipitation has fallen across the Lowcountry in the past 24 hours, with Edisto and Wadmalaw seeing the highest rainfall totals. Another 3 to 5 inches of rain is estimated to fall in the next 48 hours. Additionally, tornado watches are in effect for Georgetown and Williamsburg counties until 1 a.m. as storms capable of producing a tornado have been observed. Debby is expected to weaken Thursday night and Friday after it makes its second landfall. DOWNLOAD THE STORM TEAM 2 WEATHER APP APPLE USERS CLICK HERE | ANDROID USERS CLICK HERE Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. Tropical Storm Debby was slowly moving through Georgia early Tuesday morning as it headed toward South Carolina, where rain already began falling in the Columbia area. Heavy to excessive rain is expected to continue in the Midlands throughout Tuesday, into the night and to the following days, the National Weather Service said in a morning briefing. As rain continues Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, as much as 10 inches of precipitation could be recorded in the Columbia area, according to the briefing. Localized amounts in other areas of the Midlands could be higher, especially along the Interstate 20 corridor, and in the area south of the highway, the National Weather Service said. All of that rain makes major flooding possible through the week as Debby makes a close approach to the area, according to the briefing. Tropical Storm Debby is forecast to hit South Carolina. Widespread, significant flooding could begin Tuesday and remains a threat through Thursday, the National Weather Service said. A flood watch has already gone into effect, and it includes Richland, Lexington, Kershaw, Sumter, Lee, Clarendon, Calhoun and Orangeburg counties. The flood watch is currently listed as running through Thursday night. On Tuesday morning, a flash flood warning was issued for part of Orangeburg, as well as Bamberg and Barnwell, according to the National Weather Service. That warning is valid through 12:15 p.m. The possibility of continued heavy rainfall Wednesday and Thursday creates the potential for more flooding, the National Weather Service said in the briefing. Excessive runoff could result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations, according to the National Weather Service. Extensive street flooding and flooding of creeks and rivers are possible. Both the excessive rain and flooding are more likely because the tropical storm is moving slowly, according to the briefing. Debby is forecast to stall near the South Carolina coast through Wednesday, then move northwest into the Palmetto State on Thursday and Friday, the National Weather Service said. As of 5 a.m. Tuesday, Tropical Storm Debby was moving northeast at 6 mph, and had maximum sustained winds of 45 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. Thats slower than the 10 mph pace and 75 mph wind speeds recorded Monday morning when Debby was at hurricane-level strength. As the storm was about 20 miles south of Savannah, Georgia on Tuesday morning, and 100 miles out from Charleston, it had tropical-storm-force winds that extended up to 205 miles out, the National Hurricane Center said. The National Weather Service continues to maintain that Debbys winds are not expected to be a major threat to the Columbia area. Wind gusts as fast as 30 mph are possible, and the National Hurricane Center said that a 48 mph gust was recorded at Winyah Bay Light near Georgetown, South Carolina. The possibility of tornadoes cannot be ruled out, as a limited threat remains, the National Weather Service said in the briefing. Tornadoes could form Tuesday through Thursday, according to the briefing. Powerful winds and tornadoes could cause considerable damage to trees and branches, in addition to mobile homes, roofs and outbuildings. Vehicles would also be under siege in the case of a tornado. Damage to trees and branches creates the possibility of downed power lines and outages. We will see some strong winds from this storm, but the biggest concern is flooding, South Carolina Emergency Management Division Director Kim Stenson said in a news release. The heavy rains and flooding currently predicted this week are historic in scope and scale. Our experts with the National Hurricane Center believe flooding to be catastrophic for many parts of South Carolina. Take no chances with this storm. With so much rain expected, the South Carolina Department of Transportation urged drivers to watch weather reports and plan routes before hitting the road. During a news conference Monday, Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook urged people to stay off the roads during the storm unless it was absolutely necessary. Drivers should never drive around barricades or through standing water, SCDOT said. Tropical Storm Debby is expected to send flooding to the Southeast. Here's how much rain could fall Guests at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World brave wind and rain as bands of weather from Hurricane Debby pass through Central Florida, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, in Bay Lake, Fla. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel via AP) Northern Florida, the coastal regions of Georgia and South Carolina and parts of North Carolina are bracing for severe rain and catastrophic flooding this week as the Debby storm system moves up and east. Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane on the Big Bend coast of Florida early Monday, first hitting the small community of Steinhatchee. It damaged homes and businesses, sent floodwaters rising, caused sweeping power outages across the state and Georgia and led to several fatalities. Debby was downgraded to a tropical storm midday Monday. But experts say the worst is yet to come as the storm system is expected to stall over the Southeast region. How much rain is expected? Forecasters say the system could pummel the Southeast with widespread areas of up to 20 inches (51 centimeters) of rain and some totaling up to 30 inches (76 centimeters). That would be a record-setting rainfall, shattering the record from a tropical system in 2018's Hurricane Florence. More than 23 inches (58 centimeters) of rain was recorded in South Carolina after that storm hit the Carolinas. Although Debby was classified as a Category 1, It really is worthy of a Category 3 or 4 rating, if you want to talk about rainfall impacts, said Jeff Masters, founder of Weather Underground, now with Yale Climate Connections. Thats going to cause a lot of damage. What areas are at risk? Northern Florida as well as low-lying areas including Savannah, Georgia, and Hilton Head Island and Charleston, South Carolina, are expected to see the most severe flooding. North Carolina could also be impacted. Officials in Savannah warned the area could see a months worth of rain in four days if the system stalls. There were also flooding concerns for Tybee Island, Georgias largest public beach 18 miles (28.97 kilometers) east of Savannah. On top of any torrential downpours that Debby dishes out, the island could get even wetter from 2 to 4 feet of storm surge, according to the National Hurricane Center. We dont know how much rain is going to fall. But we have to prepare for the worst, Hilton Head Island Mayor Alan Perry said on a video posted to Facebook. If that happens, we will see an event we have never seen on Hilton Head before. Meanwhile, Charleston County Interim Emergency Director Ben Webster called Debby a historic and potentially unprecedented event three times in a 90-second briefing Monday morning. Few places in South Carolina are as susceptible to flooding as Charleston. Much of the city and surrounding areas founded in 1670 were built on land created by using fill dirt and other debris. Rising sea levels cause a number of minor flooding events even without a storm and like many coastal cities, Charleston cant drain well. The city doesnt expect a massive amount of flooding from the ocean, but the storm is still dangerous. Heavy rain can back up into the city, also causing flooding. What's causing this storm to stall? Some hurricanes make landfall and move quickly, experts say, while others slow substantially. Really what happened, and why the storm has stalled, is because theres basically high pressure areas to the west of the storm and to the northeast, and thats kind of pinned the storm, said Phil Klotzbach, senior research scientist at Colorado State Universitys Department of Atmospheric Science. With a hurricane you always have wind problems, but when you have a storm moving at 3 to 5 miles an hour, its going to be over any specific location for a very long period of time, so flash flooding and just tremendous rainfall totals are going to be very likely. Experts say the warming atmosphere plays a role in the severity of storm surges such as Debby. Warming water in the northeast Gulf of Mexico is increasing Hurricane Debby's heavy rains, as more moisture evaporates from the waters, Masters said. Some research says climate change can impact the forward motion of hurricanes, he added, making them go slower. Its something weve been seeing more of lately," Masters said. How long could this last? The worst of the rain is expected during the first half of the week, but it could last through Saturday, forecasters said. ___ St. John reported from Detroit. Jeffrey Collins contributed from Columbia, South Carolina. Russ Bynum contributed from Savannah, Georgia. ___ Alexa St. John is an Associated Press climate solutions reporter. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter, @alexa_stjohn. Reach her at ast.john@ap.org. The mayor of Charleston, South Carolina, extended the citys curfew for another day, and officials warned people living near a stressed dam southwest of Walterboro, South Carolina, to evacuate on Tuesday as Tropical Storm Debby crawled across the Southeastern United States for a second day. The former hurricane could dump more than 2 feet of rain on coastal cities in Georgia and the Carolinas by the end of the week. Debbys center is forecast to drift offshore, then refueling with additional moisture from the Atlantic Ocean, and then meander near the South Carolina coast before making a second landfall sometime on Thursday. Governors in Georgia and the Carolinas declared states of emergency and warned residents to prepare for potentially catastrophic flooding, including in places that have never seen rising water before. Here is what else to know: Flooding fears: Some of Debbys worst impacts in Florida were felt not on the coast but hundreds of miles away, in more densely populated Gulf Coast cities, as high tides further swelled flooding rivers and forced evacuations and emergency rescues. After Debby moves back out to sea, storm surge from the Atlantic could further swell coastal rivers, increasing the flood risk. Fatalities in Florida and Georgia: The storm, which made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane with 80 mph winds on Floridas Big Bend coast, was blamed for four deaths in the state. Three people died in traffic accidents, and a child was killed when a tree fell on a home. In Georgia, a 19-year-old man was also killed by a falling tree. Another hit on Cedar Key: Howling wind and waves crashed high on the fishing pier in Cedar Key, a chain of tiny islands 3 miles into the Gulf of Mexico, as Hurricane Debby slammed ashore. The storm hit the same part of the Big Bend coast where Hurricane Idalia, a more powerful Category 3 storm, made landfall less than a year ago. Climates role: Hurricanes have become more destructive over time, in no small part because of the influences of a warming planet. Climate change is producing more powerful storms that generate heavier rainfall and flooding. But humans also make storm damage more extensive by continuing to build in vulnerable parts of the coast. Article first published: Wednesday, Aug. 07, 2024, 5 a.m. ET Article last updated: Wednesday, Aug. 07, 2024, 8 a.m. ET The National Hurricane Center's 8 am Wednesday advisory reported that Tropical Storm Debby is 50 miles southeast of Charleston South Carolina and 90 miles east of Savannah Georgia, with maximum sustained wind of 45 mph. Its moving 4 mph to the northeast. "A turn toward the north and north-northwest is expected today, bringing the center of Debby to the South Carolina coast by tonight or early Thursday." forecasters explained. "Weakening is forecast to begin on Thursday after the center moves inland." They also said "Debby is expected to merge with a frontal boundary over the U.S. Mid-Atlantic states on Friday." YESTERDAY (Tuesday): Yesterday, Debby left South Carolina and headed to the Atlantic Ocean SUMMARY OF WATCHES AND WARNINGS IN EFFECT: A Storm Surge Watch is in effect for: - North of South Santee River, South Carolina to Cape Fear, North Carolina A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for: - North of the Savannah River to Surf City, North Carolina A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for: - North of Surf City, North Carolina to Beaufort Inlet, North Carolina A Storm Surge Watch means there is a possibility of life- threatening inundation, from rising water moving inland from the coastline, in the indicated locations during the next 48 hours. For a depiction of areas at risk, please see the National Weather Service Storm Surge Watch/Warning Graphic, available at hurricanes.gov. A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area. A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area. Interests elsewhere along the southeastern coast of the United States should monitor the progress of this system. Additional warnings may be required later today. HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND: WIND: Tropical storm conditions are expected to continue along the coast of South Carolina within the tropical storm warning area through Thursday. Tropical storm conditions are expected within the tropical storm warning area and possible within the tropical storm watch area in North Carolina today and continuing through Thursday. STORM SURGE: The combination of storm surge and tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline. The water could reach the following heights above ground somewhere in the indicated areas if the peak surge occurs at the time of high tide... South Santee River, SC to Cape Fear, NC...2-4 ft For a complete depiction of areas at risk of storm surge inundation, please see the National Weather Service Peak Storm Surge Graphic, available at hurricanes.gov/graphics_at4.shtml? PeakSurge. RAINFALL: Debby is expected to produce an additional 3 to 9 inches of rainfall with locally higher amounts, leading to maximum storm total amounts as high as 25 inches in South Carolina and 15 inches in southeast North Carolina, broadening the area of considerable flooding across portions of South Carolina and southeast North Carolina through Friday. An additional 1 to 2 inches of rainfall with locally higher amounts is possible across southeast Georgia through Thursday, bringing overall storm total amounts as high as 15 inches, which may aggravate any ongoing flooding conditions. From the Piedmont of South Carolina northward across portions of Virginia, 3 to 7 inches with local amounts to 10 inches, are expected through Friday. This rainfall will likely result in areas of considerable flash and urban flooding, with river flooding possible. From Maryland north through Upstate New York and Vermont, 2 to 4 inches, with local amounts to 6 inches, are expected through Saturday morning. This will likely produce considerable flash and urban flooding as well as river flooding. For a complete depiction of forecast rainfall and flash flooding associated with Debby, please see the National Weather Service Storm Total Rainfall Graphic, available at hurricanes.gov/graphics_at4.shtml? Rainqpf and the Flash Flood Risk graphic at hurricanes.gov/graphics_at4.shtml? Ero. For a list of rainfall observations (and wind reports) associated this storm, see the companion storm summary at WBCSCCNS4 with the WMO header ACUS44 KWBC or at the following link: www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/discussions/nfdscc4.html. TORNADOES: A tornado or two may occur over eastern North Carolina and extreme eastern South Carolina through tonight. SURF: Large swells will continue to affect the Southeast U.S. coast through the end of the week. These conditions are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. Source: National Hurricane Center This article was generated by the Sun Herald Bot, artificial intelligence software that analyzes information from the National Hurricane Center and applies it to templates created by journalists in the newsroom. We are experimenting with this and other new ways of providing more useful content to our readers and subscribers. You can report errors or bugs to mcclatchybot@mcclatchy.com. Full hurricane coverage at sunherald.com/news/weather-news/ New Castle County is under a flood watch and heat advisory Tuesday, but the biggest rains should come later in the week as the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby hit Wilmington. As of 11 a.m. Tuesday, the tropical storm was sitting along the Georgia-South Carolina border and predicted to move into the Atlantic Ocean before landing and traveling through South Carolina. Is Tropical Storm Debby hitting Delaware? Hurricane Debby According to the National Hurricane Center, the storm will pass over Wilmington on Saturday. It will hit New Castle County as a tropical depression. The storm is predicted to pass over New Castle County on Saturday dropping 4-6 inches of rain through Sunday. Kent and Sussex counties are expected to receive 2-4 inches of rain. It's too early to predict if the storm will produce severe weather, but flooding will be a problem after rain on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Delaware beach forecast: Will Tropical Storm Debby impact Delaware beaches? Here's the forecast "Our main concern is the heavy rainfall," said Lee Robertson, observing program leader at the National Weather Service's Mount Holly, New Jersey, office. "Anytime you get rain that saturates the ground it makes the potential for flooding even greater." The saturated ground and winds could cause issues with trees. According to growingearth.com, when the ground becomes saturated from heavy rainfall, it can cause roots to release their grip and uproot, especially when high winds come into play. Live updates: Tropical Storm Debby unleashes widespread flooding across Southeast What is a tropical depression? The storm is predicted to pass over New Castle County as a tropical depression, which is a tropical cyclone that has maximum sustained surface winds of 38 mph or less, according to the National Weather Service. (2/6) Hot and moderately humid today and Tuesday, though we should fall just below Heat Advisory criteria. Still, members of vulnerable populations (elderly, children, the sick) should take steps to stay cool and hydrated. pic.twitter.com/KMXjewTWmg NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) August 5, 2024 Delaware weather forecast Tuesday's National Weather Service forecast is calling for heat indexes ranging from 99 degrees in Dover to 93 degrees in Bethany Beach. New Castle County is under a heat advisory until 10 p.m. Tuesday. The high temperatures will impact vulnerable populations. Older adults, children and people who are sick should work to remain cool and hydrated Tuesday. (4/6) A cold front approaches on Tuesday & crosses Tuesday night. This front will interact with tropical moisture associated with Hurricane Debby to result in heavy tropical downpours. A Flood Watch is in effect for portions of the forecast area. pic.twitter.com/QUU3GN37pc NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) August 5, 2024 A cool front will move into the region Tuesday afternoon and evening. The front will mix with the tropical moisture associated with Tropical Storm Debbie, which will result in heavy tropical downpours in the late afternoon and evening. New Castle County is under a flood watch from Tuesday evening until Wednesday morning. Flooding How to stay safe in a flood Flooding As heavy rains come into the area, people need to be aware of their surroundings. Here are a few suggestions from ready.gov, a website run by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security: Evacuate immediately, if told to evacuate. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas. Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions regarding flooding. Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn around. Dont drown! Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Tropical Storm Debby passing over Delaware. How to stay safe Will Tropical Storm Debby push snakes, rats & more into your SC home? Heres what pest experts say As Tropical Storm Debby moves up the Atlantic Coast, South Carolina is expecting heavy rainfall and potential flooding. For humans, that means stocking up on necessities and finding safe shelter, but animals and insects will be impacted as well. Like humans, many critters and pests will seek out shelter from heavy rainfall, storm winds and flood water. Todd Metz, owner of Critter Control in Myrtle Beach, has worked in pest control for a decade and says residents can expect an influx of these, casual invaders, inside homes. With storm weather on the way, here are the bugs and animals to watch out for in South Carolina during and after Tropical Storm Debby. Roaches South Carolina is home to plenty of these bugs, like the American cockroach, often called a palmetto bug by locals. As water levels rise, roaches sometimes seek refuge in homes through cracks and plumbing. Spiders Storms can also drive spiders inside away from the elements. While many spiders are harmless to humans, Metz advises South Carolinians to keep an eye out for black widows and brown recluses. Snakes Lots of swimming snakes call South Carolina home and may try to find shelter in homes and on porches. Even after flooding has gone down, displaced snakes may be stuck inside. They may end up coming into houses, through openings that normally they couldnt get into because of the high water, Metz said. They could get left behind when the water recedes. Thats what we see a lot of when the water goes down. These animals may be trapped in an outbuilding or in a structure, a house or vehicle and places like that. According to the Department of Natural Resources, South Carolina has six venomous snake species to be extra cautious of: copperheads, coral snakes, cottonmouths, pigmy rattlesnakes, eastern diamondback rattlesnakes and timber rattlesnakes. Rodents During storms and flooding mice and rats will search out dry places to wait out bad weather. If they can find a big enough opening, rodents will sometimes try to use homes as shelter. As with snakes, rodents may have an easier time getting in than out and can get stuck inside. Opossums Americas only marsupials are found in counties throughout the Palmetto State. Opossums are less likely to get into your house than a roach or a rat, but they can still create problems. Opossums often seek shelter under houses to stay safe and dry. Unfortunately, this isnt always safe. Animals can get trapped under a house and then they drown and die, said Metz. Then, once the flood waters recede, that can become a potential problem as well with attracting other insects, the smell and the removal of those animals. Fire ants These insects arent typically a problem inside during floods, but are definitely a hazard outdoors. As water floods the ground, fire ants are forced out of their colony and seek higher ground. The insects form a raft of their bodies that floats atop flood waters. To avoid painful bites and stings, anyone wading through flood water should keep an especially sharp eye out for these floating masses consisting of thousands of fire ants. Mosquitoes These blood-sucking nuisances arent much of a problem during a storm, but can be an issue afterward. Several of your mosquitoes will lie dormant for possibly years until you get a real high-rain event, and those eggs can hatch almost immediately, Metz said, and youll get a strong or high influx of mosquito activity. Once rain stops and flood waters recede, its a good idea to empty items holding water outside your home, like planters, tires, bird baths and trash cans. Anything like that, that can hold water, these mosquitoes are going to look for to lay their eggs, said Metz, So being diligent and removing any of that standing water would be very helpful. Two new faces in the Colorado Springs Airport leadership team will help bring the facility into the future. Airport officials announced this week that Alex Kovacs has been named the new assistant director of construction and finance, while Jim Lovewell has been appointed the new assistant director of airline affairs, marketing and communications. Airport officials split up the four teams that previously were overseen by the business administration department and redistributed them under both Kovacs' and Lovewell's direction, the airport's Director of Aviation Greg Phillips said. Kovacs, who begins his new position after Labor Day, will lead the design and construction and finance teams. Lovewell began his new post Monday, overseeing the marketing and communications and air service departments. Both men join Brett Miller, assistant director of aviation for operations and maintenance, to support growth and development at the local airport, officials said in a news release. Kovacs' and Lovewell's roles "give us the opportunity for our senior management group to be able to focus our efforts, provide the support our teams need and make sure we're able to sustain momentum for the growth we've seen over the last two years," Phillips said. They will "help us not only do the things we have on our plate, but also new things," he added. The Colorado Springs Airport reached nearly 1.2 million emplanements in 2023, a 10% increase compared to 2022. It was the highest number of emplanements in 24 years, officials announced in January. The uptick followed a sharp decline in passenger traffic during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, when only about 700,000 passengers came through the airport in 2020, the city's 2024 budget states. The airport is in the middle of a multi-year, $36 million project to modernize its concourse built in 1994, known as ElevateCOS. The project is part of a broader 20-year, $1.2 billion airport master plan the city approved in 2022 to guide planning of future airport facilities. Started last September and expected to be completed in May 2026, ElevateCOS will make the terminal more inclusive and efficient by adding restrooms that are compliant with the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act, accessible ramp design at the concourse entrance, and other accessibility upgrades. It will also expand concessions and upgrade aging infrastructure with new LED lighting, carpet and terrazzo flooring, gate counters, podiums and larger hold rooms, among other upgrades. Sign up for free: Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country overnight and the stories to follow throughout the day delivered to your inbox each evening. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Growth at Colorado Springs Airport's Peak Innovation Park, a 1,600-acre business park, has skyrocketed in recent years, adding a nearly 4-million-square-foot Amazon fulfillment center and the presence of defense contractor Northrop Grumman and research nonprofit Aerospace Corp. The airport is also considering adding more gates to the concourse, implementing covered parking options, and building a new maintenance facility by the runway, among other improvements while paying close attention to costs, Phillips said. "All these projects add up and it gets expensive. We need to think about how we fund them while at the same time sticking to one of our key strategic goals, and that's keeping our costs low. ... We will be thoughtful about how we spend our money and how we develop," Phillips said. The airport is a city enterprise and is not taxpayer funded. Lovewell most recently held roles with the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce & EDC, where he served as its chief defense development officer for a year in 2022, then as its chief operating officer since January 2023, according to his LinkedIn profile. He retired from the Air Force after serving for 24 years and managed a range of aviation projects and operations, the news release from the airport said. According to Lovewell's LinkedIn page, he previously served as director of staff for headquarters, Space Operations Command for U.S. Space Force from June 2020 through August 2021; as chief in the Office of Defense Partnership at U.S. Central Command from August 2018 to June 2020; and as chief of the joint logistics ops center and executive officer to the director of logistics and engineering at North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and U.S. Northern Command from July 2014 to July 2018. For 16 years, Kovacs served in various roles with the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority that owns and operates both the Reno-Tahoe and Reno-Stead airports in Reno, Nev. Kovacs most recently served as the airport authority's director of finance since September 2021, according to his LinkedIn profile. Previously, he held roles as its manager of finance and budget from October 2018 to September 2021, and as its senior financial analyst from September 2008 to October 2018. Phillips said he "feel(s) very confident" Kovacs' and Lovewell's previous work experience will be a boon for the enterprise. "In the end, it's all about what's in the best interest of our community. How do we support it? How do we help it grow? How do we help meet the needs of our community? ... I feel this is the right time and the right people to help us move forward," he said. Tropical Storm Debby: Slow-moving storm leaves path of destruction across parts of Georgia Heavy rain from Tropical Storm Debby is causing significant damage as trees are coming down in parts of coastal Georgia. Homeowner Marvin Cooper narrowly escaped injury after a massive willow tree crashed toward his bedroom on Monday night. Its a blessing from God that Im still alive, Cooper told Severe Weather Team 2 Meteorologist Brian Monahan. Cooper said he had just settled into bed when the tree fell. The light was already off, but I jumped up when I heard the noise, he said. The noise he heard was the sound of a large tree limb crashing down, narrowly missing him. The limb went down in the mattress and missed my head by maybe half a footwhen it came down, it barely missed me, Cooper said. Despite the heavy rain all day from the storm, Cooper noted that the tree fell when it was relatively calm outside. It just happened. There was no wind blowing. The root must have been weak and there was no wind. It just came down from the rain, Cooper said. Cooper will be staying with his daughter while waiting to start repairs on his house. In southern Georgia, especially in Echols County, the aftermath of Debby is also taking a toll on farmers. RELATED STORIES: Tobacco farmer Bo Corbett told Channel 2s Michael Doudna that there is significant damage to his crops. Normally, there would be leaves out here, and half the stalk is gone, Corbett said. He described how beautiful the field was just a day before the storm and lamented the swift devastation. In 24 hours, its pretty much destroyed, Corbett said. Corbett and his family have farmed tobacco for years, but now, instead of full plants, they see broken stalks and fallen leaves. It breaks it down. The plant goes into protective mode, and it will start defoliating itself and protecting itself, Corbett said. While Debbys overall destruction was limited across southern Georgia, the timing of the stormduring the harvesting seasonhit farmers particularly hard. Corbett pointed out that they lost a day of harvesting to Hurricane Idalia and had just a month before Debby struck. Now they are racing against the clock to salvage what remains before more leaves fall off. A lot of money has gone to waste. It breaks your heart, Corbett said, though he remains hopeful that insurance will cover at least some of the losses. RELATED NEWS: Heavily populated and low-lying counties of South Carolina and Georgia are bracing for deadly floods as Tropical Storm Debby lumbers across the Southeast. Since making landfall Monday morning in Florida, where it killed five people and briefly left more than a 100,000 households without power, Debby has been downgraded from hurricane status. But the storm remains a serious threat. In large part, thats because of the heavy rain its dropping, like a colossal swirling sponge squeezing itself out over the already flood-prone coastal areas around Savannah, Ga., and Charleston, S.C. Before dawn on Tuesday, the National Hurricane Center warned of potentially historic heavy rainfall across the coastal flanks of the two states, which will likely result in areas of likely catastrophic flooding. For both regions, Debby represents the intersection of acute and chronic crises: the slow, implacable legacy of sea-level rise meeting the sudden outburst of storms fueled by the water-trapping fury of a heating climate. Heres what you need to know. Where is Debby and what impact has it had so far? Debby is currently moving at the speed of a racewalking human about 50 miles off the coast of the Southeastern U.S, after a passage across Florida, Georgia and South Carolina brought what local officials called some of the worst flooding they had ever seen. Debby, creeping northeast at just 4 miles per hour, has lost a lot of power since crashing into Floridas Big Bend the part of the states Gulf Coast that makes a 90 degree turn southwest of the state capitol of Tallahassee. Like Hurricane Beryl, which left millions in Houston without power for a week following its July onslaught, Debby was a Category 1 hurricane when it made landfall. However, Debbys impact on the Florida power system was relatively minor compared to the crisis Beryl wrought in Texas, with just over 40,000 households in the state without power as of Wednesday morning a reflection both of the storms positioning and years of work hardening Floridas electric system, which have made its power grid the envy of its fellow Gulf Coast red states, Texas and Louisiana. When it hit the Big Bend at 7 a.m. Monday, Debby brought winds in excess of 80 miles per hour. By Wednesday morning, those speeds had dropped to 45 miles per hour. But the deadliest aspect of hurricanes isnt their winds: Its the flooding caused by their rain, as the Weather Channel reported. And over the next three days, Debbie is going to bring a lot of rain. How much water will it bring to the region? Potentially historic amounts, the National Hurricane Center forecast Tuesday morning. Debbys center crossed back over the Atlantic by Tuesday afternoon, though its swirling winds extend 175 miles in every direction, reaching far inland. Its departure from land was not especially good news. Water, and particularly the unusually warm waters of the Atlantic, is hurricane fuel all the more so as rising fossil fuel pollution in the atmosphere traps solar heat in the oceans in record levels. According to the National Hurricane Center, Debbys lack of a defined inner core will hinder its ability to gain strength over the next day and it is expected to stay far enough from the heat of the Gulf Stream to avoid a significant increase in strength. But it could begin to strengthen again Wednesday and gain power until it returns to land on Thursday and begins to weaken again. Some parts of coastal Georgia and the Carolinas can expect a staggering 25 inches of rain over the following three days, with less impacted areas receiving a still-considerable 10 to 20 inches. Thats in addition to storm surges of up to 4 feet along the South Carolina coast, and up to 3 feet between the North Carolina state line and the Cape Lookout peninsula. That surge means a piling up of ocean water that will make urban flooding worse as it overwhelms the ability of sewer systems and local waterways to shunt record rainfall into the oceans. The risk of flooding underscores a somewhat paradoxical danger posed by Debbys loss of power. For all that hurricanes are seen as more serious than tropical storms and although a Category 5 is more dangerous than a Category 1 the difference between the classifications is largely a function of wind speed. And by and large, while high winds wreck power systems, houses and infrastructure, its water that kills people and more water falls when storms are slow. Why are slow storms more dangerous? Because they have more time to dump water over a given area. According to the National Hurricane Center, rain-driven flooding killed two-thirds of the 41 people lost in 2001s Tropical Storm Allison and 95 percent of the 68 people who died in 2017s Hurricane Harvey and was responsible for 77 percent of the 22 deaths in 2018s Hurricane Florence. To be clear, slow in this case refers to how quickly the storm system itself moves its translational motion or forward speed, in meteorology jargon rather than the wind speed. For example, Hurricane Dorian hit Grand Bahama in 2019 as a Category 5 with wind gusts up to 220 miles per hour but the system as a whole moved at a shambling 1.3 miles per hour. Slower storms in the midlatitudes which include most of the United States appear to be a function of a climate being heated by fossil fuel emissions, according to 2020 research out of Princeton University. Higher temperatures drive stronger westerly winds, which blow through the midlatitudes and toward the poles, effectively creating a brake on the movement of storms, the research showed. And 2019 research published in Environmental Research Letters suggested that extreme precipitation from Harvey a Category 4 storm that stalled above Houston and southeast Texas for several days in 2017 was made about 20 percent worse by climate change, and that such stalling storms would become more prevalent. This potentially climate-driven change is reflected in the changing pattern of hurricane fatalities over the last 60 years cataloged in the NHC report. Between 1963 and 2012, the biggest share of deaths were from wind-driven surges in seawater, and 27 percent just over a quarter of deaths came from freshwater flooding. But over the last decade, that rain-driven share of deaths has more than doubled. Between 2012 and 2023, about 57 percent of hurricane fatalities were people who drowned in freshwater floods. For the Carolina Lowcountry, a slow Debby means more inches of rain, which likely means more floods, more infrastructure destroyed and, potentially, more deaths. If Debby were moving at, say, 20 miles per hour instead of its current 4, it would have far less time to dump water over a city like Savannah or Charleston. Tropical cyclones always produce heavy rain, but normally as theyre moving, you know, it doesnt accumulate that much in one place, Richard Pasch of the National Hurricane Center told WKYC on Tuesday. But when they move very slowly, thats the worst situation. As things stand, Debbys relatively pokey speed and the bad luck of its trajectory keeping it in an arc just off the Southeasts coast over the next three days are set to more than make up for its tropical storm status, leading to equivalent rainfall damage to a Category 3 or 4 storm, according to Yale Climate Connections. On Monday alone, Debby dumped 6 inches of rain on Savannah more than the city received all last August. Tuesday brought 3 more inches, and 3 to 9 more are expected in the region through the weekend. Thats bad news for a region that already suffers from significant flooding risk even when it isnt raining. Why is the Southeast particularly vulnerable to flooding? A mixture of geography, sea-level rise, a heating planet and a legacy of maladaptive development decisions. To start with, the coastal Southeast is low, flat and at the constant intersection of both big waterways and tidal flux all of which would lead to a significant flood risk even if sea levels werent rising as global temperatures climb. Hotter water doesnt just fuel hurricanes or melt ice off the poles it also takes up more space than cooler water, which translates to sea levels creeping up into sewers and waterways, and also (because the geometry of stormwater drainage relies on seawater levels being lower than the water being drained) causes rain to pool and back up. The southern U.S. is a global hot spot of sea-level rise, with levels in Charleston up an average of 7 inches since 2010, and water levels along the East Coast rising by about 4 millimeters per year. That rise makes sunny day flooding a continual problem in cities like Savannah. And compounding the issue is the fact that, like East Coast cities from Miami to Boston, the Georgia citys demand for water is worsening its drainage problem. Every gallon of groundwater pulled from these underground aquifers causes the overlying city to sink, making it even harder to get rid of stormwater a dynamic that, along the East Coast as a whole, is lowering cities by about 2 millimeters per year. Put those trends together, and the effect is sea levels rising along the East Coast by more than 2 inches per decade a rate that a 2023 Journal of Climate study suggests is accelerating, particularly in the Southeast. Experts told The Washington Post that this slow, creeping erosion from saltwater which blocks roads and corrodes sewers and asphalt even on sunny days is a greater long-term danger than the more dramatic hurricanes. We are preparing for the wrong disaster almost everywhere, Rob Young, a geology professor at Western Carolina University, told the newspaper. These smaller changes will be a greater threat over time than the next hurricane, no question about it. But as with so many consequences of planetary heating, the crises arent separate; they build on one another. Storms like Debby are sudden, potentially devastating disasters that are worsened by the ways they interact with the slow-moving one, as higher seas and bigger storm surges combine with more dramatic rainfalls to lead to higher water levels in the streets. In the case of 2012s Hurricane Sandy, the combination of rising seas and a hurricane led to billions of dollars in additional damage and more than a hundred thousand additional flooded households, according to 2021 study in Nature Communications. Such dynamics dont require a hurricane: For example, New York City saw some of its highest water levels ever in the wake of a winter storm last December, experiencing more than 4 feet of water above average, according to federal statistics. In a troubling mark of the rapid pace of sea-level rise, that last 2023 nonhurricane storm drove up sea levels by nearly as much as 2017s Hurricane Irma, which hit Charleston with the third-highest storm surge ever recorded. Debbys entrance into Georgias coastal region worsens this already unfavorable math with a new deluge. With the storm still 50 miles from Charleston and Debby not expected until Thursday morning water levels at federal coastal stations are at more than 6 feet above average. These trends suggest a grim outlook for the Southeast coast so grim that theyve prompted suggestions that the most vulnerable communities in the region should be abandoned. Coastal development is continuing, however, and a March study in Nature Communications found that government at all levels is effectively subsidizing the rising cost. The studys authors acknowledged that these subsidies are keeping communities from facing the price crash that would come from a frank reckoning with the reality of sea-level rise and holding off climate gentrification. But they argued that these benefits are only temporary. They only delay precipitous declines as total inundation approaches, the authors wrote. Where is Debby going next? The prevailing story for the next two days will be deja vu, with the storms limited movement leading to the same areas getting impacted over the course of the forecast, the National Weather Service wrote Tuesday. Its hard to know precisely where Debby will go and when, in part because its moving so slowly that it is much more subject to atmospheric conditions, which are causing it to wander more than a storm with a strong forward momentum. But current federal predictions assume that after a wide 24-hour swing around Charleston, Debby will make landfall again near the city on Thursday morning. It is then forecast to head up through the North Carolina Piedmont and the mid-Atlantic, where it is expected to dump 3 to 9 inches of rain, with some municipalities getting as much as 15 inches. Wilmington, N.C., is at particular risk. From there, the cone of uncertainty spreads to encompass the entire Northeastern seaboard, potentially including severely flood-prone communities from Chesapeake Bay and the Delaware Valley to the Jersey Shore, Hudson Valley and Long Island though the National Weather Service currently thinks the most likely targets are the Delmarva peninsula east of Washington, D.C. Current projections suggest between 50 and 70 percent of communities in that area which is shared between Delaware, Virginia and Maryland could get an excess of 3 inches of rain by this weekend, with nearly a quarter of the region seeing more than 5 inches. Updated August 7 at 12:13 p.m. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. At least one tornado touched down in Edisto Beach as Debby barreled toward coastal South Carolina Monday evening, according to the Colleton County Sheriffs Office. While the twister resulted in property damage and downed power lines, no injuries have yet been reported, the Colleton County Sheriffs Office said in a post on X. The agency also said Palmetto Blvd will be blocked off until the damage is evaluated. A tornado has touched down on Edisto Beach. No injuries reported as of yet. There is some property damage and several power poles down. Palmetto Blvd will be impassible at this time until the damage can be evaluated. #chsnews #scnews#colletoncountyfire Colleton County Sheriff's Office (@ccsocares) August 6, 2024 In addition, Chicago and Midwest Storm Chasers reported that several homes were severely damaged with their roofs blown off. Coots Bar and Grill, a popular restaurant in Edisto Beach, sustained significant damage from the tornado, with a portion of its roof blown off, according to a video shared on X, formerly Twitter. VIDEO | Footage of tornado damage from inside Coot's Bar and Grill on Palmetto Blvd in Edisto Beach, South Carolina#breaking #iawx #scwx #tornado pic.twitter.com/0vLS2s1E86 Bobby Ellison (@BobbyEllisonKY) August 6, 2024 The Colleton County Fire Department has advised residents living near the intersection of Cane Branch Road and Cavanaugh Road to evacuate immediately as the McGrady Dam, which is near the area, has the potential to fail. The McGrady Dam near the intersection of Cane Branch Rd & Cavanaugh Rd has the potential to fail. If you live between Edward Rd and Cavanaugh Rd south of Cane Branch Rd, you should evacuate the area immediately. Cane Branch may be impassable. ... https://t.co/9ZHPHSKXsW ColletonFire (@ColletonFire) August 6, 2024 A small memorial formed at the sign for Tom Green Elementary School in Buda on March 23, the day after a bus crash left one student dead. A Bastrop County grand jury indicted a concrete truck driver Tuesday on two counts of manslaughter and two counts of criminally negligent homicide after a crash with a school bus that killed a 5-year-old boy and another driver, District Attorney Bryan Goertz confirmed. Jerry Hernandez, 43, had previously been charged with criminally negligent homicide, but the grand jury added the manslaughter charges in the deaths of Ulises Montoya Rodriguez, a prekindergarten student on the bus, and 33-year-old Ryan Wallace, who was in a vehicle traveling behind the bus, Goertz said. Goertz declined to comment further, citing the pending matter. Hernandez remains in the Bastrop County Jail. The indictment comes after the March 22 crash involving Hays school district bus No. 1106, which was carrying 44 prekindergarten students from Buda's Tom Green Elementary School and 12 adults when the concrete pump truck collided with it. The students and adults were on their way home from a field trip to Capital of Texas Zoo in Bastrop County when the crash happened, about 2 p.m. March 22 on Texas 21 near the intersection with Calder Road. Wallace was driving in a vehicle behind the school bus when the concrete pump truck veered into his vehicle and crushed it. At the time of the crash, Hernandez had been employed for about four months by FJM Concrete Pumping LLC, a Bastrop County-based firm owned by Francisco Martinez. In an interview with investigators at a hospital after the crash, Hernandez said he'd only gotten three hours of sleep the night before and had taken a 15-minute nap in the cab of his truck that afternoon before leaving his jobsite, according to the arrest affidavit. Hernandez also told investigators he'd smoked marijuana at 10 p.m. the night of March 21 before going to bed and consumed a "small amount of cocaine" around 1 a.m., according to the affidavit. Since the crash, families of those involved have filed a handful of civil lawsuits against Martinez and Hernandez. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Indictments issued against truck driver in fatal Hays school bus crash Conservatives have begun claiming that it was antisemitic for Kamala Harris to tap Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to be her running mate on Tuesday, instead of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. But when examining Walzs actual record on Israel, their phony meltdown doesnt quite ring true. It seems that Republicans are hoping to push the narrative that Walz was selected over Shapiro because Shapiro is Jewish. Lets be clear: Kamala didnt *cave* to the antisemitic, pro-Hamas wing of the Democratic Party. She *belongs* to the pro-Hamas wing of the Democratic party, wrote violently pro-Israel Republican Senator Tom Cotton in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Conservative radio talk show host Dana Loesch claimed that picking Walz over Shapiro was done to not upset their anti-Jewish voters who carry a lot of influence in their party now. Fox Business correspondent Charles Gasparino seemingly couldnt believe that Harris had selected Walz. Unless @JoshShapiroPA was caught in bed w a live boy or dead girl this VP choice tells you something scary about the Dem Party and antisemitism pure and simple, Gasparino wrote in a post on X. Before Walz was even announced, Republican vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance claimed that if Harris didnt pick Shapiro, it would be out of anti-Semitism in their own caucus and in their own party. Republican commentator Eric Erickson wrote simply, No Jews allowed at the top of the Democratic Party. Of course, of the 35 Jewish members of the current Congress, only two are Republican. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is also Jewish. Like Ericksons hollow critique, this conservative meltdown is completely made up: For a pick determined by so-called antisemitism, Walzs appointment has already received significant support from pro-Israel groups. As soon as Harriss decision was announced Tuesday morning, the Democratic Majority for Israel released a statement expressing its support for Walz, and lauding the moderate Democrat for his record on Israel. As governor, he has been a steadfast supporter of the pro-Israel movement in Minnesota, the statement said. In the wake of Hamas barbaric October 7th attacks, Governor Walz ordered state flags to be flown at half-mast and condemned the horrific attacks on Israel by Hamas, and, at a vigil for the victims, asked anyone who did not immediately condemn the assault to reevaluate where youre at. The group highlighted Walzs support of U.S.-backed military aid to Israel and work to increase Holocaust education in Minnesota. When speaking at an AIPAC conference in 2010, Walz called Israel our truest and closest ally in the region, with a commitment to values of personal freedoms and liberties, surrounded by a pretty tough neighborhood. J Street, the liberal pro-Israel lobby also released a statement supporting Walz, obtained by Forward. We know the Harris-Walz team will stand up for our shared values, protect our community, and pursue smart, pro-Israel, pro-peace leadership abroad. Were all in, said the group, which had previously endorsed Walz. Recently, Walz has presented a more nuanced stance on Israel. During the primaries, he said that those who voted uncommitted to protest President Joe Bidens support for Israel in its catastrophic military campaign in Gaza were civically engaged. People are frustrated, but it bodes well, for me, that theyre actively engaged to go out and cast this vote and ask for change, Walz said at the time. As pro-Palestinian protests spread across the country, Walz said that students need to be able to express opinions, and that included Jewish students as well. When Jewish students are telling us they feel unsafe, we need to believe them, and I do believe them, he said. Walzs apparent open-mindedness and more moderate position came in sharp relief to Shapiro, who has been egregiously bad on Palestine. As former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said on CNN Monday night, dismissing Shapiro had little to do with antisemitism. I think its probably more about policy, she said. Trump Is Already Losing It Over Kamala Choosing Tim Walz as V.P. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has only just been named as Kamala Harriss running mate, but Donald Trump is already mad. The Republican presidential nominee and convicted felons campaign immediately fired off a fundraising email Tuesday morning with some over-the-top but unspecific attacks, with an insane subject line not likely to gain traction beyond the MAGA faithful. Twitter screenshot Zack Beauchamp @zackbeauchamp This shows one of the advantages of the Walz pick. Literally no one outside the GOP bubble believes this milquetoast Midwestern guy is the avatar of American carnage The email continued along the same lines. Hell unleash HELL ON EARTH and open our borders to the worst criminals imaginable, the email read. Hell rubber stamp Kamlas [sic] GREEN NEW SCAM and light TRILLIONS of dollars on fire. But the real killer: hes already pulled in MILLIONS in dirty cash to buy the White House! Twitter screenshot Philip Bump @pbump: Gee, I wonder if Trump had the same fundraising email ready to go with other names? (with a screenshot of the fundraising email) As The Washington Posts Philip Bump noted, Trump probably had this email ready to go with an empty space for Walzs name. The attacks on Walz could have been used against any generic Democrat (except perhaps Joe Manchin). But Trump and the GOP now have the difficult task of taking on the Democrat who coined the very effective weird attacks against them. And compared to J.D. Vance, Walz is likeable, a great communicator, and has a compelling story. Well have to see in the coming days whether Republicans and Trump will have any effective attacks against Walz, but if their flailing attacks on Harris are any indication, they may not have anything good. A top hostage negotiator dismissed GOP concerns that the massive prisoner swap orchestrated last week will encourage Russian President Vladimir Putin to detain more Americans. Roger Carstens, the special envoy for hostage affairs who was appointed by former President Trump in 2020, pushed back on the claims Monday, saying there was no precedent for that in his experience. The funny thing is, its just not proving true. I mean, there was a time when I had 54 cases. Im now down to just over 20. So weve made hard changes. Weve traded some bad people to get good people, innocent people, back, he told CNNs Jake Tapper. And you would think that my numbers would be skyrocketing up, and yet theyre not. Theyre going in the opposite direction. So the math proves that assertion could be wrong when we make these hard decisions and the president makes the tough call to send someone back in a trade like this, our numbers are actually going down, Carstens added. The prisoner exchange last week, the largest since the Cold War, freed 16 people including Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan in exchange for eight Russian nationals held in jails in the U.S. and Europe. The massive swap appeared to rest on Germanys decision to release a convicted Russian assassin, Vadim Krasikov, who was serving a life sentence for the murder of a Georgian Chechen dissident in 2019. The exchange was met with some criticism from Republicans, who suggested that releasing Russian prisoners like Krasikov would only embolden Putin to target more Americans. Carstens also noted risks are always taken in situations where Russian prisoners are released. Its hard to determine what hes going to do in the future. I mean, obviously we hope he goes back and does nothing, he said about Krasikov. Theres a phrase that the moral imperative outweighs the moral hazard. What happens in the future with him, we dont know. We can hope. We can take different mitigation steps to hopefully make sure that he behaves himself as life goes forward, but you always assume a risk in these situations, he added moments later. The White House has also played down the possibility that the exchange would lead to a thawing of relations with Russia on a host of other global security issues in particular, the war in Ukraine. National security adviser Jake Sullivan noted there was no direct engagement between President Biden and Putin on the prisoner swap, but extensive talks with Russian officials. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Donald Trump unveiled his newest plan of attack against Kamala Harris on Monday night: misspelling her first name. The former president has made several attempts to undermine his surging presidential election rival, including by questioning her racial identity. Hes also road tested a series of nicknames including Lyin Kamala, Laffin Kamala, and Crazy Kamala, but now appears to be going in a different direction. Trumps Appearance With Mini-Me Streamer Adin Ross Was Deeply Weird People vote with their STOMACH, and food is now at an all time high because of Kamabla/Biden INCOMPETENCE, Trump wrote in a Truth Social post Monday. With them in charge, IT WILL ONLY GET WORSE! What appeared to be a typo was confirmed as an intentional misspelling of Harris first name in a follow-up post an hour later. Kamabla has stated, over and over again, that she wants to DEFUND THE POLICE AND, WITHOUT QUESTION, BAN FRACKING, Trump wrote. NO MORE FOSSIL FUEL. This will quadruple the cost of energy in America! DEPRESSION ANYONE! He added in later posts that Kamabla Harris is afraid to Debate me on FoxNews and claimed Kamabla is the WORST V.P. The Republican nominees new attacks come the week after he sparked an angry backlash for questioning Harris ethnicity. I didnt know she was Black until a number of years ago when she happened to turn Black, and now she wants to be known as Black, Trump said at the National Association of Black Journalists convention in Chicago. So, I dont know, is she Indian or is she Black? While Trump later claimed hed CRUSHED IT at the convention, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre described his words as repulsive, and Harris accused Trump of engaging in his same old tactics of divisiveness and disrespect. Harris formally secured the Democratic presidential nomination late Monday, making her the first woman of color to lead a major party ticket in the U.S, the Associated Press reported. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Former president Donald Trump wasted no time blasting his opponents new running mate Tuesday, attacking Gov. Tim Walz as West Coast wannabe whos obsessed with spreading Caliornias dangerously liberal agenda far and wide. Walz has spent his governorship trying to reshape Minnesota in the image of the Golden State, said Karoline Leavitt, Trump campaign press secretary, in a statement emailed to the media. While Walz pretends to support Americans in the Heartland, when the cameras are off, he believes that rural America is mostly cows and rocks. It was an early attempt to define the new Democratic candidate for vice president one that relies on the time-tested GOP strategy of bashing California. California has been a favorite Trump target for years, and though Walz has no significant political connection to the state, the campaign was clearly ready with a message tying him to its liberal policies on criminal justice and climate change. From proposing his own carbon-free agenda, to suggesting stricter emission standards for gas-powered cars, and embracing policies to allow convicted felons to vote, Walz is obsessed with spreading Californias dangerously liberal agenda far and wide, Leavitt said. If Walz wont tell voters the truth, we will: just like Kamala Harris, Tim Walz is a dangerously liberal extremist, and the Harris-Walz California dream is every Americans nightmare. California bashing Republicans have been attacking Harris is from California, a state where the GOP insists anything goes, crime is out of control and undocumented immigrants and homeless people are everywhere. Republicans are attempting to portray Kamala Harris as a cackling far-left elitist from deep-blue California with its supposedly failed policies on immigration, homelessness, business retention, crime, and more., said Kambiz Akhavan, executive director of the Dornsife Center for the Political Future at the University of Southern California. That is a right-wing stereotype of top California leaders that is being aggressively promoted. Whether America believes the stereotype has a lot to do with what media they consume and who their friends are, he said. Stay Informed On Election News Sign up here to get our Election 2024 newsletter, with local, state and national political news and analysis sent right to your inbox. The state has been more progressive on issues that you can distort, said Steve Phillips, a San Francisco author and lawyer and Harris supporter. On environmental issues, for instance, Republicans like to talk about how the government is going to ban gas stoves (its not but wants to make them more energy-efficient) or plastic straws (Harris does support banning them). And then theres immigration. If she becomes president, Kamala Harris will make the invasion (of undocumented immigrants) exponentially worse, and just like she did with San Francisco, just like she did with the border, our whole country will be permanently destroyed, former President Donald Trump told reporters last week. Harris had nothing specifically to do with undocumented immigrants in San Francisco, but is enduring all sorts of California-bashing. It may have an impact. A California Democratic first? Harris is trying to become the first California Democrat to ever win the White House. Three RepublicansHerbert Hoover, Richard Nixon and Ronald Reaganhave won the White House. Harris has a California winning streak. She won a tight race for attorney general in 2010, but easily won a second term in 2014 and a U.S. Senate seat in 2016. California is a heavily Democratic state that last elected a Republican statewide in 2006. Republicans see California as a contrast to their cultural conservative message, their eagerness to Make America Great Again. California is not a great state anymorethe world is being dumped into California. Prisoners. Terrorists. Mental patients, Trump told the state Republican convention last year. Even among California Republicans, the image of Democrat-created chaos is a political weapon.. Weve had a front-row seat to Harriss soft-on-crime policies for two decades, California GOP Chair Jessica Millan Patterson wrote in an op-ed recently for the Washington Examiner. Rep. Kevin Kiley,, R-Roseville, posted a lengthy tweet detailing what he said was Harris crime record. Californias crime crisis has three main causes: 1) Rogue Prosecutors, 2) Reckless Laws, 3) Attacks on Police. Kamala Harris has been at the center of all three, he said. There was One (very) Angry Man at the Georgia State University Convocation Center last Saturday. Donald Trump had harsh words for everyone. He insulted his general election opponent, Crazy Kamala Harris, for her low IQ, and jeered at President Joe Biden for choking like a dog during the debate that started the campaign to convince him to step aside for Harris. Trump slammed several Georgia Republicans, including disloyal Governor Brian Kemp, who Trump said should get off his ass and do something about Atlanta murders. The GOP nominee even went after the host university itself for not letting more people into the at-capacity stadium to see Trump. Thats a lot of grievances to air at an event meant to rally supporters of the former president as he seeks another term in office. And its understandable why Trumpwho has appeared flummoxed at times over how to handle a head-to-head campaign against Harriswould go back to his old, winning 2016 playbook: Insult people and groups of people. Blame immigrants, city-dwellers, Democrats, and insufficiently loyal Republicans for the ills of the country and the world. But anger, a driving force in 2016, is a weakening tactic, eight years after Trump shocked the world by defeating Hillary Clinton. Enough voters were tired of politics as usual that election that they were willing to see if a blunt talker could be better. Biden prevailed in 2020 because voters wanted to turn on the TV and be bored by the president. Anger is still a powerful motivator for Trumps base, but hell likely need to peel off more voters to score another victory. And he may just have exhausted the mental, physical, and emotional energy of swing voters who are simply tired of his antics and his rage. I think Trump is very much playing to his base right now, but he might not be winning over some of the folks he really needs, such as female and suburban voters, Indiana University associate professor Steven Webster, author of the book American Rage: How Anger Shapes Our Politics, told me. There may be voters in this country who are sick of his anger at the deep state or him, now, going into the 2024 election. And on top of that, theres a newfound enthusiasm on the side of the Democrats, who are newly hopeful that replacing Biden with Harris could keep the White House in Democratic hands next year, he added. The hope follows a stunning (and historically un-Democratic) unity in the party, whose leaders and rank-and-file quickly coalesced around Harris as the nominee. I myself incorrectly predicted that pushing Biden out of the way would bring more problems than it solved, leading to a bloody and bitter convention floor fight, with Democratic factions bickering about Gaza, race, gender, and what kind of candidate could mobilize progressives without alienating suburban swing voters. I expected the Democrats to be burdened with having to build an entirely new campaign team and raise money for an entirely new campaign message. Instead, Democrats had about as smooth a switchover as they could have dreamed they could get. Bidendespite how shabbily fellow Democrats treated himstepped aside without public complaint, and cleverly did so on the Sunday after the Republican National Convention, stealing Trumps buzz and turning the spotlight immediately to Harris. With the exception of a comically insignificant interest in the nomination by self-help guru Marianne Williamson, the deal was done. Harris raised a stunning $310 million in Julythe vast majority from first-time donorswhile Trump and his joint fundraising committees, in the month of the RNC convention, pulled in just $139 million. Harriss Georgia rally, held four days before Trumps, was a polar opposite in tone. Reinforcing her popularity with young people (who were disaffected with Biden), she had rappers Quavo and Megan Thee Stallion perform to a joyousand newly hopefulpacked stadium. She criticized Trump, for sure, but with none of the barbs and personal insults that poured out of the former presidents mouth. The path to the White House runs right through this state, and you all helped us win in 2020, and were going to do it again in 2024. Yes, we will, Harris said in a not-so-subtle callback to Barack Obamas Yes, we can message. Trump knows how to play to an audience, but the audience for his vitriol is limited to those who are already with him, Michael J. Hamner, director of the University of Marylands Center for Democracy and Civic Engagement, told me. The effectiveness of that [anger] strategy has peaked and sort of plateaued, Hamner said. I think its really curious when he doubles down on January 6 and on things that are just highly unlikely to resonate with people who are on the fence, people who arent just in his camp no matter what. In political terms, its still a ways to Election Day; unhappy veterans of Clintons campaign recall how she went from leading Trump by double digits in a late-October 2016 CNN poll to narrowly losing the election (while winning the popular vote) a couple of weeks later. And former Obama strategist David Axelrod has become the Harris campaigns official warner (or wet blanket), urging Democrats not to feel irrational exuberance over early polls taken while Harris is still in a honeymoon period. But Trump needs a new campaign messageand a new attitudeif he wants to defeat his new opponent. Former President Trumps campaign criticized Vice President Harris for choosing Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) as her running mate Tuesday, calling him a West Coast wannabe. Its no surprise that San Francisco Liberal Kamala Harris wants West Coast wannabe Tim Walz as her running-mate Walz has spent his governorship trying to reshape Minnesota in the image of the Golden State, Trump campaign press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement. On Tuesday morning, Harris chose Walz to be her running mate. Walz, who previously served in the House, emerged as a dark horse contender and gained popularity after he began repeatedly calling Republicans weird, a line that Harriss campaign has eagerly adopted. The pick drew praise from both progressive and more moderate Democrats. Live updates: Harris picks battle-tested Walz as her running mate The Trump campaign criticized Walzs progressive policy stances and said he pretends to support Americans in the Heartland. From proposing his own carbon-free agenda, to suggesting stricter emission standards for gas-powered cars, and embracing policies to allow convicted felons to vote, Walz is obsessed with spreading Californias dangerously liberal agenda, Leavitts statement said. In a text to supporters, Trumps campaign said TIM WALZ WILL UNLEASE HELL ON EARTH. In an email last week, Trump vowed to unleash hell at his rally in Atlanta, shortly after Harris made a stop there. On a fundraising site, Trump reiterated the line and criticism of Walz. Hell unleash HELL ON EARTH and open our borders to the worst criminals imaginable, the site said. Hell rubber stamp Kamalas GREEN NEW SCAM and light TRILLIONS of dollars on fire. Harris and Walz are set to travel to several battleground states this week, beginning Tuesday in Philadelphia. They will also make stops in Wisconsin, Michigan, Arizona and Nevada. Republicans are likely to criticize Walz on his policy positions on abortion and LGBTQ issues, painting him as a radical liberal, as they have sought to do with Harris. If Walz wont tell voters the truth, we will: just like Kamala Harris, Tim Walz is a dangerously liberal extremist, and the Harris-Walz California dream is every Americans nightmare, Leavitt said. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Trump is forcing Republicans, including some in NC, out of the closet on race | Opinion The Republican-led North Carolina General Assembly has, in the past 14 years, amassed one of the nations most imposing records of racial discrimination in electoral regulation. According to the federal courts, lawmakers have repeatedly deprived Black North Carolinians of a constitutionally adequate voice in the state legislature. No other set of legislators have ever done so much, so fast, to restrict access to the franchise. Lawmakers have interfered with the very mechanism by which the people confer their sovereignty, and called into question their capacity and willingness to comply with the Constitution. Some record that. Gene Nichol But here in the Tar Heel state, Republicans like to carry out their racial work on the down low. Whenever they target Black voters, Republicans explain they were just pressing common sense measures, or seeking ballot accuracy, or electoral security race had nothing to do with it. This isnt 1860 or 1898 or 1954. They seem to be saying Were all decent folks here. Good gentlemen. Then, the federal courts explain that the General Assemblys position was mere pretext, or, more simply, a lie. Its now clear, though, that the ruse, the North Carolina feint, wont satisfy Donald Trump. Trump again ratified his commitment to overt bigotry at the National Association of Black Journalists conference. He began by intentionally mispronouncing Vice President Kamala Harris name apparently because lots of other folks do it too. Such class. He was asked by ABC News correspondent Rachel Scott whether it was acceptable that some of his supporters derisively referred to Harris the former San Francisco district attorney, California state attorney general, U.S. senator and sitting vice president as a DEI hire. Trump replied: Could be. (Making me wonder how he would characterize JD Vance, or himself.) Trump made it worse: I didnt know she was Black until a number of years ago when she happened to turn Black, and now she wants to be known as Black. So I dont know, is she Indian or Black? So much for Howard University and Alpha Kappa Alpha. Echoing his earlier attacks on President Obamas birth status, Trump suggested Harris should be investigated. He thinks he retains the power to determine her worth and meaning. Then, of course, he derided the noted Black journalists questions as hostile and nasty. Trump as final arbiter. Imagine. Trump also resurrected his claim that illegal immigrants were stealing Black jobs. Offended when asked what Black jobs might be, Trumps muttered response was anybody who has a job. The great Olympian, Simone Biles, later tweeted: I love my black job. North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis tried to re-implement the dodge. He was unwilling, of course, to condemn Trumps ever-exploding racism. Pushed to respond, Tillis called Trumps comments a distraction and said: I think it shifts away from the discussion I want to focus on, but it may very well be that we have a difference of opinions about what is going to move the voters. I for one think its the failure on the economy, the failure on the border and the failure on national security. Tactically, Tillis would emphasize the economy and the border. Its not that racial hatred is impermissible, or gigantically immoral or, by definition, un-American. Its not that xenophobia and pigheadedness is disqualifying for a president of the U.S. or a great political party, Tillis just prefers economics. But, to be clear, like some of his Republican colleagues, Tillis is happy to enlist his fealty in the explicit racists cause. Im glad weve come to this. A defining, existential battle between white supremacy, in all its seething horror, and the American promise. Contributing columnist Gene Nichol is a professor of law at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Merchandise featuring former President Donald Trump sold at Trump rally at Big League Dreams stadium in Las Vegas. (Photo by Jeniffer Solis/Nevada Current) The impact of even a provocative social media post doesnt often linger with me for long. In a presidential election year, even less so. But two of them struck me this week, neither of them mentioning Indiana politics, but to this Hoosier columnist, they feel entirely about us. The first post came from a politico named Mike Madrid on Friday. Madrid is a Latino campaign consultant, a former Republican and co-founder of the anti-Trump group, The Lincoln Project. He wrote: There was a time when it could be argued that not all Trump voters were racist, but they were comfortable voting for a racist. Not anymore. Madrid was referring to Donald Trumps outburst during an interview at the National Association of Black Journalists convention last week questioning Vice President Kamala Harriss rather uncomplicated and well documented ancestry. The racist nature of it was remarkable in and of itself. What is more remarkable, however, is how GOP leaders immediately began repeating the attacks. Even those who would rather Trump not say these offensive things out loud also didnt object. As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, A time comes when silence is betrayal. To listen to a podcast version of this column, go here. At the top of the GOP ticket in Indiana this election year, are three Trump sycophants: Mike Braun for governor, Jim Banks for U.S. Senate, and Todd Rokita for attorney general. They are all unapologetically devoted to anything and everything the former president says and does. I want their views confirmed on the Harris issue, though I think its obvious. These three Republicans dont cross their leader. And as Madrid implied, Trumps racism can no longer be shrugged off as a bug. Its a feature. The second post lingering with me came from Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp. Trump was campaigning in Atlanta on Sunday, where he is under indictment for his attempts to steal the 2020 election. While on the stage and in his own social media posts, the former president reignited his attacks on Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, Kemp, and oddly, Kemps wife for their collective disloyalty. It was as odd as the Harris ancestry attack in that it makes no sense how it helps Trumps campaign. Kemp and Raffensperger are both extremely popular Republicans in that swing state. They both responded, but Kemps response was troubling. My focus is on winning this November and saving our country from Kamala Harris and the Democrats not engaging in petty personal insults, attacking fellow Republicans, or dwelling on the past. You should do the same, Mr. President, and leave my family out of it. Interpretation: Youre awful, but Im still with you. Sycophancy is hard to maintain I suppose. I grew up with a challenge-the-man approach programmed into me and am just incapable of living any other way. We often underestimate the moral betrayal that unconditional loyalty requires. And when large groups of people openly engage in it, the cultural damage is incalculable. Running on sycophancy The notable study on the topic, Edward E. Jones 1964 Ingratiation: A Social Psychological Analysis, was detailed in Psychology Today in 2017. This is how the trickle-down effect of the phenomenon matters in places like Georgia, and importantly, Indiana. Jones concluded, Sycophancy ultimately requires a willingness to deceive and be deceived on the part of both partiesFor the underling, opinion conformity is always safer, but one runs the risk of proving oneself pathetically deficient in leadership capacity. It forces choosing party over spouse, like Kemp did on Sunday. While thats sad and telling for Kemp, there are more problematic results for America. On Sunday, Politico published Ian Wards detailed account of the process used for the creation of the now infamous Project 2025, the Heritage Foundations blueprint for a second Trump term. Putting aside the offensive contents of the 900 page screed, how it was created and how the Trump campaign engaged in it details a level of chaos that is jaw-dropping. In Indiana, the rollout of Mike Brauns property tax relief package last week is easily the most disorganized, thoughtless, cornerstone of a leading gubernatorial candidate I have ever seen. Following a hotly contested and expensive primary about nothing, Brauns first meaningful policy plan is a tax plan that was apparently developed without using any math. The truth is, hes not running on this attempt at a governing commitment. Hes running on the sycophancy. So, the campaign isnt riled by the obvious flaws in his math-less accounting plan. Or as Jones wrote in his Ingratiation study, the pathetically deficient leadership. There will be a time in the not too distant future when Trumps time will end. And in the absence of an individual to unequivocally suck up to, governing plans might have a chance to return to Republican campaigns. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Donald Trumps campaign is taking aim at Minnesota Governor Tim Walz for backing a policy that gives convicted felons the right to vote, conveniently forgetting that their candidate is also a convicted felon. Trump campaign press secretary Karoline Leavitt released a statement Tuesday decrying Vice President Kamala Harriss selection of Radical Leftist Tim Walz as her running mate. Leavitt criticized Walz for embracing policies to allow convicted felons to vote, as part of his obsession with spreading Californias dangerously liberal agenda far and wide. As Minnesota governor, Walz signed a bill in June 2023 restoring the right to vote to more than 50,000 Minnesotans on parole, probation, or community release due to a felony conviction. Despite Leavitts griping, Trump himself is the beneficiary of a policy allowing convicted felons to vote. Trump is currently still eligible to vote in Florida, where he is registered, because Florida election law says that he has that right so long as he is able to vote in the state where he was convicted. In New York state, a person is only disenfranchised while incarcerated, so unless Trump is sentenced to prison in his New York hush-money trial, he can still vote, according to the Brennan Center for Justice. In an astounding feat of doublethink, Team Trump seems to want voters to be angry that convicted felons can vote, while simultaneously hoping that theyll vote for a convicted felonand that said convicted felon can vote for himself come November. DENVER (KDVR) Former President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Colorado for a high-dollar fundraising dinner this weekend. Trump is set to give remarks at the dinner in Aspen on Saturday, according to a fundraising page from the Trump 47 Committee. The specific event location is not listed. A flyer posted by The Republican Party of Orange County, in California, lists several hosts: Former Ambassador Duke Buchan III and Hannah Buchan Mindy and Jeff Hildebrand Warren Lichtenstein Andrew McKenna Drew McKnight Carol and Larry A. Mizel Amy and John Phelan Diane and Tom Smith Google illegally maintains monopoly over internet search, judge rules Attendees can give or raise money to attend: $500,000 per couple to join the host committee, $100,000 per couple to co-host and $25,000 per couple to attend. The Trump 47 Committee, the joint fundraising group behind the event, includes Donald J. Trump for President 2024, the Save America PAC, the Republican National Committee and state GOPs in more than four dozen states not including Colorado, according to the flyer. This appears to be Trumps first visit campaign to Colorado since a February 2020 rally in Colorado Springs. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. "Never sell your bitcoin," Donald Trump told a cheering crowd at a crypto convention in Nashville in late July. The Republican presidential candidate's speech was the latest overture in his effort to court crypto-focused voters ahead of November's election and offered a bevy of campaign promises, including a plan for a state bitcoin reserve. "If elected, it will be the policy of my administration to keep 100% of all the bitcoin the U.S. government currently holds or acquires into the future," Trump said, adding the funds would serve as the "core of the strategic national bitcoin stockpile." Indeed, Trump isn't the only one with such a proposal. U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis has introduced legislation that would see the U.S. government purchase 1 million bitcoins, around 5% of the total supply, while independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has suggested a government stockpile of 4 million bitcoins. The rise of crypto ETFs: How to invest in digital currency without buying coins A strategic reserve would be one use for the massive amount of bitcoin held by the U.S. government. The jury's out on what it would be used for, whether it's feasible, or if it's even welcome for the broader crypto market, though. The U.S. government holds a bumper cache of crypto: around $11.1 billion worth which includes 203,239 bitcoin tokens, according to data firm Arkham Intelligence which said the pile came from criminal seizures, including from online marketplace Silk Road, which was shut down in 2013. At current levels, the U.S. holds about 1% of the overall global bitcoin supply which stands at about 19.7 million tokens, according to Blockchain.com. Bitcoin's total supply is capped at 21 million coins. To compare against big non-state investors, Michael Saylor's Microstrategy holds about 226,500 bitcoin tokens, as per second-quarter results. BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust and Grayscale Bitcoin Trust hold 344,070 and 240,140 tokens respectively, according to data site BitcoinTreasuries. A government bitcoin stockpile could shore up bitcoin prices. "It would have a positive impact on price. It would have to because we've never had such a limited supply commodity, albeit digital, assume a new state of a reserve asset," said Mark Connors, head of global macro at Onramp Bitcoin. More: Top 10 cryptocurrencies of 2024 Yet such a reserve also means fewer tokens for crypto investors to trade with and could leave them exposed if the government ever sold part of its reserves. "RFK talked about having 19% of bitcoin, the same amount of the gold supply I can't imagine a single bitcoiner would be happy about that," Connors added. Governments besides the United States also boast bumper hoards of bitcoins, with BitcoinTreasuries reporting China is the second largest government holder, with 190,000 coins. 'A lot to figure out' While the prospect of a national bitcoin reserve is uncertain, crypto watchers are nonetheless pondering what form it could take. Connors suggested the Federal Reserve could manage the reserves for the Treasury Department, as it does with gold. On the other hand, the stockpile could be more akin to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, where both the president and Congress have varying amounts of control, according to Frank Kelly, senior political strategist at asset manager DWS Group. "There's a lot to parse and figure out there," Kelly said. There's also an irony that jars with many true bitcoin believers: the digital asset intended to be decentralized and free of government control becoming part of a state reserve. Regardless of what happens with a bitcoin stockpile, many market players are happy enough to see crypto becoming a significant campaign talking point. "There's a general view in the industry that both parties are paying much more attention to digital assets," said Rahul Mewawalla, CEO of Mawson Infrastructure Group which operates data centers for bitcoin mining. "The expectation is that will continue post-November." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump's bitcoin stockpile plan: What it may mean for crypto investors UTICA, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) For the second straight night, the Levitt AMP Concert at Kopernik Park will be moved inside due to the weather. Tuesday nights concert will be held at St. Volodymyr the Great Ukrainian Catholic Church, at 4 Cottage Place in Utica. Team Members will be on-site to help people enter the building. Tuesday nights lineup was held over from June 24. The opening act will be the Half Moon Orchestra, playing at 5:30 pm. Anna Kalashnik a local bandora player will be the intermission act, playing at 6:30 pm. The headlining act will be Ukrainian band Kommuna Lux, performing at the Levitt AMP series as part of their United States tour held over earlier in the year. As with Monday nights concert, Tuesdays concert is free and family-friendly. The series itself runs until Monday, August 19, and intends to return to Kopernik Park on Monday, August 12, weather permitting. For more information on the Levitt AMP Utica Concert Series, you are encouraged to visit their website at the link here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WUTR/WFXV - CNYhomepage.com. Two facing charges for students death from carbon monoxide poisoning at Evergreen Two men have been charged with second-degree manslaughter in connection with the 2023 death of a student at The Evergreen State College. Frank McCutcheon, 53, and Brett McCutcheon, 32, have been accused of causing the death of Jonathan Rodriguez, a 21-year-old student from Dupont who died from carbon monoxide poisoning on Dec. 11, 2023. The two men are alleged to have improperly installed air intake and exhaust venting for a new tankless water heater inside an on-campus modular apartment, Unit No. 305, where Rodriguez and other students resided, according to court records. The men, who were employed by Olympia Sheet Metal at the time, installed the water heater about a week before the poisoning. That deficient installation caused the death of Jonathan Rodriquez by introducing into the residence levels of carbon monoxide over 20 times the acceptable limit, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Filak wrote in a probable cause statement. The poisoning also caused the hospitalization of two female students, then ages 19 and 20, as well as a responding Evergreen police officer, according to a March report from the Washington State Patrol, which investigated the case. The Thurston County Prosecuting Attorneys Office charged Frank and Brett McCutcheon on July 11 after being forwarded a State Patrol report on the investigation. Frank McCutcheon attended his arraignment hearing in Thurston County Superior Court on Tuesday. He pleaded not guilty and was allowed to be released on his personal recognizance, according to Prosecuting Attorneys Office spokesperson Tara Tsehlana. Brett McCutcheons arraignment was delayed until Sept. 3, Tsehlana said. The State Patrol report cited the improper installation of the water heater as the cause of the carbon monoxide leak. Carbon monoxide detectors sounded off at the unit, but the report says Evergreen staff treated them as faulty and silenced them. State Patrol also determined Evergreen employees and residence maintenance personnel lacked training or understanding of the function of the fire alarm and carbon monoxide systems. The report came out after State Patrol hired Bison Engineering, a Texas-based forensic engineering firm, to investigate the incident. Higher-than-normal carbon monoxide The probable cause statement describes the investigation from the perspective of law enforcement. A State Patrol detective responded to the apartment unit on Wild Currant Loop Northwest on Dec. 11 to investigate. Residents informed maintenance staff about carbon monoxide alarms going off earlier in the day. Due to the drive time, the statement indicates a technician responded to the unit later that evening and found multiple unconscious students. The detective learned that a new tankless water heater had been installed between Dec. 1-5, 2023, and he obtained an invoice from Olympia Sheet Metal. The invoice listed Frank and Brett McCutcheon as well as a third employee as the people who handled the project. An Evergreen maintenance worker told the detective that Frank and Brett McCutcheon conducted the installation. The third employee was listed as a delivery person on the invoice, according to the statement. A certified Professional Engineer for Bison Engineering investigated the installation of the tankless water heater. His examination determined that no outside combustion air was provided for the heater, which resulted in higher-than-normal carbon monoxide concentration, according to court records. Additionally, the engineer determined exhaust piping was not sealed and properly connected, causing highly contaminated air to spill back into a utility room. The engineer restarted the boiler and noted it operated without malfunction. However, the statement indicates carbon monoxide levels increased throughout the building to as high as 1,294 parts per million in the air of the residential area. The permissible exposure limit for carbon monoxide is 50 parts per million over eight hours, according to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The engineer said the deficient installation was outside the accepted practice in the field, according to the statement. He reportedly deemed it a negligent installation that did not comply with the installation manual. Based on the engineers report, the statement describes the installation as a gross deviation from what reasonable people in the same situation would do. Brett McCutcheon is a certified contractor with 3,296 hours in the HVAC/RFRG specialty, according to the Washington State Department of Labor and Industry. Frank McCutcheon does not appear to have a current certification. On 5 August, Russian authorities detained Vyacheslav Akhmedov, the head of the Russian Ministry of Defences Patriot Park, and Major General Vladimir Shesterov, Deputy Head of the Russian Ministry of Defence's Innovation Development Department, on suspicion of large-scale fraud. The Russian Defence Ministrys Patriot Park is a theme park in Kubinka, Russia, dedicated to Russian army equipment and the Soviet Union's victory in World War II. Source: Institute for the Study of War (ISW) Details: Russian law enforcement officials informed TASS, a Kremlin-aligned news agency, that they suspect Akhmedov and Shesterov of embezzling over 40 million roubles (approximately US$471,000) from public procurement for Patriot Park. They also indicated that additional defendants might be implicated in the case. Patriot Park, a personal project of Sergei Shoigu, former Russian Defence Minister and current Security Council Secretary, was overseen by Timur Ivanov, a recently detained former Deputy Defence Minister, during its construction. Quote: "A Russian milblogger who is particularly critical of the Russian military command praised Akhmedov's and Shesterov's arrests and claimed that Akhmedov and Shesterov were part of the old team that controlled the Russian Ministry of Defence under Shoigu's leadership, suggesting that their arrests are indicative of Shoigu's diminishing influence. A Russian insider source who has previously correctly predicted several command changes within the Russian Ministry of Defence suggested that recently dismissed former Deputy Defence Minister Army General Pavel Popov, who is reportedly involved with Russia's National Defence Control Center, could be the next high-ranking Ministry of Defence official to be arrested." More details: Since April 2024, a wave of arrests has swept through the upper echelons of the Russian defence establishment, targeting several senior officials on corruption charges. Speculation among Russian military bloggers has linked these detentions, including that of Ivanov and other prominent figures associated with Shoigu, to a possible waning of Shoigu's influence in the Kremlin. This is seen as part of a broader effort to "cleanse" the Ministry of Defence of Shoigu's allies under the new leadership. Additionally, an insider revealed on 5 August that Lieutenant General Alexander Shestakov, the head of the Main Armoured Directorate, is anticipated to step down from his role shortly. To quote the ISWs Key Takeaways on 5 August: Russian authorities detained Vyacheslav Akhmedov, the head of the Russian Ministry of Defence's (MoD) Patriot Park, and Major General Vladimir Shesterov, Deputy Head of the Russian MoD's Directorate for Innovative Development, on suspicion of large-scale fraud as of 5 August. A Russian insider source who has previously correctly predicted several command changes within the Russian MoD claimed on 5 August that Lieutenant General Alexander Shestakov, the Head of the Russian MoD's Main Armoured Directorate, will leave his position in the near future. Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu met with various high-ranking Iranian officials, including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Armed Forces General Staff Chief Major General Mohammad Bagheri, and Iranian Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Akhbar Ahmadian in Tehran on 5 August. Russia is tightening pre-departure standards for Tajik migrants hoping to work in Russia, likely as part of ongoing Russian efforts to address security threats from the Islamic State's Afghan branch IS-Khorasan (IS-K) following the Crocus City Hall terrorist attack in March 2024. Ukraine's Defence Intelligence, citing satellite imagery, reported that Ukrainian drone strikes destroyed a Su-34 bomber aircraft and an ammunition warehouse at the Morozovsk Airfield in Rostov Oblast on 3 August. Russian forces advanced east of Toretsk and Pokrovsk and near the city of Donetsk and Robotyne. The Kremlin continues efforts to position Russian veterans who have fought in Ukraine in domestic political roles. Support UP or become our patron! Two horses test positive for EEE in St. Lawrence County CANTON, N.Y. (WWTI) A pair of horses in St. Lawrence County have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis according to the countys public health department. Public health said that the affected horses are in the Norwood and Brasher Falls area. St. Lawrence Co. Horse tests positive for Deadly Virus The EEE virus can cause a life-threatening illness that can cause encephalitis. That ailment causes swelling of the brain and can be passed on via mosquito bites. St. Lawrence County Public Health asks residents to exercise caution in the summertime. Some tips include wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants and socks. Here are some other ways to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses: Avoid mosquito bites: Use insect repellent when outdoors, especially from dusk to dawn. Look for EPA-labeled products containing active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin (KBR3023) or oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-menthane 3,8-diol). Apply more repellent, according to label instructions, if mosquitoes start to bite. Mosquito-proof homes: Fix or install window and door screens, and cover or eliminate empty containers with standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs. Protect your horses: Veterinarians recommend commercially available licensed vaccines against EEE for all horses in the U.S. Horses should be vaccinated at least annually. Its not too late this year to vaccinate your horses. Use approved insect repellents to protect horses. If possible, put horses in stables, stalls or barns during the prime mosquito exposure hours of dusk and dawn. Eliminate standing water, drain water troughs and empty buckets at least weekly. Stock water tanks with fish that consume mosquito larvae (contact your local mosquito control for assistance), or use mosquito dunks (solid donuts of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, which are nontoxic to horses) available at hardware stores. You can learn more information about EEE on the NYS Department of Health webpage and the CDCs website. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWTI - InformNNY.com. Two sisters killed in upstate New York crash; identities released Two sisters are dead following a crash in upstate New York, according to the Cayuga County Sheriffs Office. The crash occurred around 6:25 p.m. on Thursday on Ira Hill Road near the intersection of Farnam Road in the town of Ira in Cayuga County. Police said a vehicle driven by Hailey Trumble, 19, of Granby, New York, and occupied by her sister Shelby Trumble, 17, also from Granby, was traveling eastbound on Ira Hill Road. As the vehicle crested a hill, it crossed into the opposite lane, colliding with a westbound vehicle driven by Robin Latham, 59, from Tully, New York. The reason for the Trumble vehicle's lane departure remains under investigation, said Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck. Both Hailey and Shelby Trumble died from their injuries sustained in the crash, police said. Robin Latham was transported to Syracuse University Hospital with serious injuries and is currently listed in stable condition, police said. Anyone with information is being asked to call Detective Lt. Rob Franklin at (315) 253-1132. No additional information will be released until the investigation is complete, Schenck said. This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Sisters Hailey and Shelby Trumble killed in Cayuga County NY crash Keir Starmer has hit back at Nigel Farage after he accused police in the UK of carrying out two-tier policing in their response to ongoing far-right riots. Violent scenes have erupted in the last week following the killings of three young girls in Southport by 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana. Several others were injured in the attack, with the suspect due to stand trial in January. Misinformation became rife following the tragic incident, with false reports of Rudakubanas religion and migration status shared widely on social media. Far-right rioters took to the streets of Southport on the day after the attack, clashing with police and causing severe damage to the town. Riot police hold back protesters near a burning police vehicle in Southport on July 30, 2024 (Getty) This was followed by more than 20 similar events over the weekend. During and after the riots, police have arrested more than 400 people. Dozens of police officers have also been injured, with rioters often targeting them. A number of the far right protests have involved racist or Islamaphobic chants, with some participants seen making Nazi salutes, while black and Asian people have been attacked in broad daylight. Responding to the police response to the disorder, Mr Farage said: The impression of two-tier policing has become widespread, adding: The Prime Ministers faltering attempts to address the current crisis have only added to that sense of injustice. The term two-tier policing, often spread by far-right conspiracists and now being peddled by Elon Musk on Twitter, refers to how police handle different groups in society. The baseless claim, often illustrated with cherry-picked incidents that ignore others, is that forces are being more heavy-handed with people on the right than the left. The prime minister has said this is a non-issue, and that policing in the UK is carried out without fear or favour and experts say the two-tier term is not only wrong, but dangerous and misleading. Ruth Ehrlich, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Liberty, said: Politicians and media should not be equating legitimate protest movements calling for social progress and social justice with what we are seeing today. Which is really Islamaphobic and racist movements that are causing destruction up and down the country. Whats the law on protesting in the UK? Nottinghamshire Police arrested 15 people at a protest in the citys Old Market Square (PA Wire) Crucially, protest is not illegal. Freedom of expression and assembly are protected rights under the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR), which the UK is beholden to. It is when an assembled group becomes violent or begins to carry out unlawful acts or at least plans to that police can lawfully step in. A persons right to protest can be restricted to prevent crime or disorder, protect public health, or protect the rights of others. A senior police officer can also put conditions on a protest if they believe serious public disorder or damage could be caused, the community could be disrupted, too much noise could be generated, or intimidation may occur. But there is a difference between peaceful protest, and what has been happening in the UK over the past week. Ms Ehrlich explains: These people are not protesting, they are rioting. And that is a different area of law. In the UK, people are charged for specific criminal offences relating to their actions. A person can be guilty of violent disorder or a riot if they use or threaten unlawful violence which causes anyone to fear for their personal safety. Participants may also be charged with specific incidents of assault criminal damage or arson, among others. Were police soft on Black Lives Matter protesters? Thousands of protestors hold signs at a Black Live Matters rally on June 13, 2020 in Brighton (Getty Images) The 2020 Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests were largely peaceful events, with the two key organisers Black Lives Matter UK and Stand Up To Racism not found by authorities to have incited attendees to act aggressively. Between May and June 2020, there were around 135 arrests across a reported 200 protests. This was largely in central London, as protesters clashed with police on a few separate dates in June. These isolated incidents mostly saw people charged with offences related to assault, disorder, criminal damage or Covid distancing laws. The latter was often related to defacing statues or government buildings, a practice that became divisive at the height of the protests. Responding to the protests, former prime minister Boris Johnsons said at the time : racist violence has no place in our society, but added that all actions should take place in accordance with the rules on social distancing. On a few occasions, protesters clashed with counter-protesters who were in attendance to protect monuments such as Londons cenotaph. Those carrying out criminal damage would largely choose targets related to Britains colonial past such as Bristols Edward Colston statue. These protests were not free from police response, Ms Ehrlich says: It is complete nonsense to say that we have not seen heavy-handed policing of legitimate forms of protest in recent years. Without wanting to suggest [the far-right riots and BLM protests] are comparable events, we saw examples of excessive force being used on protesters, we saw kettling. What we are seeing in these situations today is people taking to the streets, thats spreading very quickly. Its just a completely different movement from the BLM protests. How were the 2011 riots policed? Rioters took to the streets of North London demanding justice after the shooting of Mark Duggan in 2011 (Lewis Whyld/PA) (PA Archive) In August 2011, riots broke out in London, soon spreading to pockets all over the UK. The action began as public anti-racist protests in response to the fatal shooting of 29-year-old Mark Duggan, but certain groups then mobilised over the following days to become violent and disorderly. The most severe disorder took place in London, as rioters clashed with police, destroyed vehicles, and looted shops. Incidents continued from August 6 to 11, with news footage showing police struggling to combat the growing violence. In the aftermath, many critics said police did not act quickly or effectively enough to curb the violence. Public opinion was split on whether the police used enough force, but human rights charity Liberty said at the time that it was proportionate. More than 3,000 people were arrested during the disorder, and 186 police officers injured. The Criminal Prosecution Service (CPS), led at the time by Sir Keir, responded severely. Emergency legislation was introduced to open courts for 24-hours, as thousands of people were processed. Sentences were 25 percent higher than usual on average, with experts saying it seemed the government was seeking to make an example of would-be rioters. In another unprecedented move, bail was denied for all of those awaiting trial. It is understood this was to prevent the spread of further disorder. Of those arrested, 78 percent had a previous caution or conviction. Its likely many of the emergency measures will be used as the CPS works to sentence those involved in the far-right riots over the past few days. Two wanted for 2022 drive-by attempted homicide in Stroudsburg arrested in Florida Two people wanted for attempted homicide in Stroudsburg have been arrested in Florida after almost two years. According to Stroud Area Regional Police Department, 25-year-old Kylan Coombs and 28-year-old Alexandra Hidalgo were arrested in connection to an August 2022 shooting on Main Street in Stroudsburg. Police said Coombs shot from a vehicle on the 600 block of Main Street at an individual who he and Williams Derosier had an altercation with at a bar on Aug. 7, 2022. Hidalgo and Derosier, 31, were also in the vehicle. Derosier was arrested in August 2022. From 2022: SARPD: Two wanted in connection with attempted homicide on Main Street in Stroudsburg Coombs was arrested on Aug. 1, and Hidalgo was arrested on Aug. 2. Both were arrested in Broward County and are being held there as of Tuesday. They are charged with attempted criminal homicide, conspiracy to commit homicide and aggravated assault, along with lesser charges. Max Augugliaro is the public safety and government watchdog reporter at the Pocono Record. Reach him at MAugugliaro@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Pocono Record: Two arrested in Florida in connection to 2022 shooting in Stroudsburg The U.S. Department of Defense has announced a review of the Medals of Honor awarded to soldiers who committed the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890. This new review comes after years of advocacy and legislative efforts to address the controversial bestowal of the nations highest military honor for actions that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Native Americans in a single day. On December 28, 1890, the U.S. Army intercepted a band of Miniconjou Lakota, consisting mainly of women and children, on their way to the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. The Army intended to disarm the Sioux men, but the situation quickly escalated into chaos and violence. Soldiers opened fire indiscriminately, resulting in the deaths of approximately 300 Native Americans, with women and children comprising more than two-thirds of the fatalities. Despite the brutality of the massacre, approximately 20 soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor for their actions. This decision has been a source of deep pain and anger for Native communities and advocates who argue that the medals glorify an act of violence against unarmed, surrendering people. Efforts to rescind these medals have gained significant support over the years. The Remove the Stain Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill aiming to revoke the medals awarded for the Wounded Knee Massacre, was introduced in 2021. This legislative push has garnered the backing of the South Dakota State Senate, 213 Tribal Nations, and major Tribal associations, including the Coalition of Large Tribes and the National Congress of American Indians. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo), the first Native American to hold a Cabinet position, has been a leading voice in addressing this historical injustice. During her time in Congress and the Biden Administration, she has consistently advocated for the rescission of the medals, emphasizing the ongoing harm they cause to Native communities. The Defense Departments review was ordered by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin after consultations with the White House and the Department of the Interior. This action was recommended in the 2022 defense bill, reflecting a push by lawmakers to reassess the awards. The review will be conducted by a special panel of five experts, who will examine the historical records and documentation of each soldiers actions. In response to the Department of Defenses announcement of the review, Secretary Haaland issued a statement on July 25, expressing her gratitude for the move. The significance of the Wounded Knee Massacre and the historical record put these Medals of Honor in a class of their own: medals that glorify violent actions against unarmed, surrendering peopleactions for which Congress itself has felt compelled to officially apologize, Haaland said in the statement. I believe that allowing the nations highest military honor, awarded for valor and distinguished conduct in combat, to continue to rest with the legacies of 20 soldiers who participated in this shameful massacre devalues and degrades the Medal of Honor while causing ongoing harm to Native people. Thats why now is the time for a meaningful step to remove the stain of these medals. As the review progresses, it will be essential for the involved parties to communicate openly and consider the perspectives of the descendants of those who suffered the massacre. The outcome of this process could serve as a precedent for addressing other historical injustices and ensuring that military honors are awarded appropriately and respectfully. About the Author: "Kaili Berg (Aleut) is a member of the Alutiiq\/Sugpiaq Nation, and a shareholder of Koniag, Inc. She is a staff reporter for Native News Online and Tribal Business News. Berg, who is based in Wisconsin, previously reported for the Ho-Chunk Nation newspaper, Hocak Worak. She went to school originally for nursing, but changed her major after finding her passion in communications at Western Technical College in Lacrosse, Wisconsin. " Contact: kberg@indiancountrymedia.com A hearse and debris sit behind the Return to Nature Funeral Home, Oct. 5, 2023, in Penrose, Colo. Credit - Jerilee Bennett/The Gazette via AP The owners of a Colorado funeral home have been ordered to pay $950 million to the families of 190 victims whose bodies were found decaying inside. The judge in a civil case ruled Monday that Return to Nature home in Penrose should pay grieving families who paid for cremation services and were given fake ashes while their bodies decomposed in a maggot-infested building. The couple allegedly took $130,000 from families for cremation and burial services that were never carried out. But the legal victory is largely a symbolic one as families may never see a payout. The homes founders, Jon and Carie Hallfordwho are also facing hundreds of criminal charges in separate federal and state caseshave long been facing financial ruin. They had missed tax payments and were evicted from the home in 2023. If nothing else [] the judgment will bring more understanding to the case, Crystina Page, a mother who hired the home to cremate her deceased son in 2019, told the Associated Press. Im hoping itll make people go, Oh, wow, this isnt just about ashes. Jon is a multi-generational funeral home owner with 19 years of experience in the industry, according to KRDO, a local radio station. The couple opened the Return to Nature home in May 2016, touting it as a place for environmentally conscious burials that use no chemicals or embalming fluids, and opt for biodegradable caskets. Green funerals are legal in Colorado but bodies must be buried within a 24 hour window, or else refrigerated. Fremont County Sheriff's Office launched an investigation into Return to Nature on Oct. 4, after an odor coming from the home led officials to the site. When investigators discovered more than 100 bodies stacked at the home, the couple allegedly fled Colorado to escape prosecution. They were later arrested in Oklahoma in November and charged with multiple counts of money laundering, forgery, theft, and abuse of a corpse. Jon remains in custody, while Carie has received bail but did not show up to hearings for the civil case. Andrew Swan, a class actions attorney for the families of the victims, said he hoped the case would compel the Halfords to court. I would have preferred that they participate, Swan said, if only because I wanted to put them on the witness stand, have them put under oath and ask them how they came to do this, not once, not twice, but hundreds of times. Colorado has lenient regulations for funeral homes compared to other states. But the case of the Halfords has played a role in passing new legislation to license funeral workers in the state. From 2026, funeral home operators will be required to hold a degree in mortuary science and undertake a one-year apprenticeship, as well as pass exams and background checks. Write to Armani Syed at armani.syed@time.com. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) A suspected rocket attack injured five U.S. service members and two contractors at an air base in Iraq. A defense official says two had to be evacuated for care. All seven are stable. Our hearts go out to the service members who were injured, and we are hoping for a speedy recovery, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. The White House says it remains focused on easing tensions in the Middle East. We do not want this conflict to escalate or spread, Jean-Pierre said. This is the latest in a recent uptick of attacks on American forces by Iranian-backed militants. It comes after Israel says it killed senior Hezbollah and Hamas officials. These de-escalation conversations are going to continue. Thats what we want to see, Jean-Pierre said. House Speaker Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) said we are on the brink of disaster and called on President Biden to take a more active role to defend service members in the region and Israel. In a statement, Johnson said America and our allies and partners in the region should work together to strongly counter Iran and its terror proxies to send a clear message against these malign activities. Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) said America needs a Commander-in-Chief who will protect our service members, demand peace through strength, apply maximum pressure, and put an end to Irans aggression. The White House says this is a priority for the president. To make sure that we do everything that we can, to protect our national security, right? To make sure that we have to do everything that we can, to work with our partners, Jean-Pierre said. Defense officials say they are still assessing the situation after the strike. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Last year, the Treasury Department sanctioned former Paraguayan President Horacio Manuel Cartes Jara (pictured in 2013 at the United Nations), who had been previously blacklisted by the United States, as well. File Photo by Brendan McDermid/EPA-EFE Aug. 6 (UPI) -- The Treasury and State Department announced sanctions on the Paraguayan tobacco company Tabacalera del Este S.A. for giving financial assistance to former Paraguayan President Horacio Manuel Cartes Jara, who had been previously blacklisted by the United States. Cartes once owned -- directly or indirectly -- a 50% interest in the tobacco company, known as Tabesa. U.S. officials said the company has made payments and still plans on paying him "millions of dollars," despite sanctions against him. Last year, the Treasury sanctioned Cartes and Vice President Hugo Adalberto Velazquez Moreno for corruption. The Treasury alleged that Cartes and Velazquez were connected to the corruption in government contracts or the extraction of natural resources or bribery, including misappropriation of state assets or the expropriation of private assets for personal gain. "Today's actions reinforce the United States' sanctions on former President Cartes and demonstrate the U.S. commitment to ensuring the integrity of our sanctions programs and inhibiting Cartes's ability to receive financial benefits," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement. "The United States remains dedicated to ensuring accountability for Cartes and to promote meaningful anti-corruption reform in Paraguay." The Treasury said the move builds on the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act that was issued in 2017. "While Cartes no longer owns Tabesa following a sales agreement to acquire Carte's share in the company, Tabesa has made -- and plans to continue making -- payments worth millions of dollars to Cartes." OKLAHOMA CITY Through a new partnership with a goal of meeting workforce needs, students at the University of Central Oklahoma can now receive college credit while completing the Oklahoma City Police Departments academy. Students can earn 15 credit hours toward bachelor degrees in criminal justice through the program. Students who successfully complete the OKCPD program while pursuing their bachelors degree will be offered employment as an OKCPD officer in addition to the credit hours. The UCO partnership will help us recruit and retain quality individuals for our police force, OKCPD Chief Wade Gourley said in a statement. We strongly encourage our officers to pursue higher education and do what we can to help them get a degree, grow within the department and become better officers in their service to the city. More: Lawmakers aren't planning to study this Oklahoma-tribal relations issue Elizabeth Maier, dean of UCOs College of Liberal Arts, said the program is meant to improve workforce development. There are currently 674 students enrolled in UCOs criminal justice degree program this upcoming fall semester. Law enforcement agencies across the country have struggled recently to hire enough qualified individuals to serve as law enforcement, she said. Maier said there is an additional processing fee for submitting their transcripts from the academy for review. She did not know how much the fee is, but said it is not a significant amount. Maier said students can begin utilizing this partnership as early as this fall semester. As the states only public metropolitan university, the University of Central Oklahoma is uniquely positioned to work closely with Oklahomas largest police department, UCO President Todd Lamb said in a statement. UCO students must pass a background check, meet fitness standards and regularly work with an OKCPD mentor to work on the police force and participate in the academy. The partnership officially began July 31. Oklahoma Voice is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oklahoma Voice maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Janelle Stecklein for questions:info@oklahomavoice.com. Follow Oklahoma Voice onFacebook andTwitter. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKCPD academy now counts toward UCO college credit Updated Aug 7, 2024, 8:20am EDT politics tech UK The News British lawmakers want to summon Elon Musk before the UK Parliament over Xs alleged role in fueling the countrys far-right riots, Politico reported. Violent anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant attacks have gripped the UK after three children were killed in a knife assault last week. Musks social media platform has been accused of spreading misinformation about the attackers identity: He was wrongly identified as a Muslim asylum seeker, leading rioters to attack a mosque. Musk himself has stoked divisions on X, writing that civil war is inevitable in the UK. He also accused Prime Minister Keir Starmer of dealing with demonstrations more harshly than he would if they had involved members of ethnic minorities an unsubstantiated claim dismissed by the police chief as complete nonsense. SIGNALS Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories. Musk wont want to be held accountable Sources: BBC, Business Insider, Time British parliamentary committees have tried to summon tech executives in the past, notably Metas Mark Zuckerberg in 2018 but he refused to appear in person. Musk too is unlikely to put himself under the spotlight if a summons does emerge. He has apparently ignored multiple requests to be interviewed by the BBCs disinformation correspondent, though did speak to the broadcaster for a hastily arranged conversation last year that he refused to end. Ultimately, X provides Musk with a platform where he can set the rules and change them whenever he wants, and reporters should be wary of his obsession with spectacle, which resembles Donald Trumps, a columnist argued in Time in 2022. Blaming disinformation by external actors may allow politicians to avoid domestic problems Source: The Guardian Various UK media outlets have covered the role played by social media in spreading the riots. Theres always been violence. Whats brought violence mainstream is social media, Nobel laureate and tech critic Maria Ressa told The Guardian. But British politicians may be among those who have been radicalized: Many seem increasingly comfortable flirting with dog whistles and conspiracy myths that were once the preserve of the fringe far-right, the head of Oxford Universitys Violent Extremism Lab added. Indeed, some left-leaning commentators have criticized what they perceive as an excessive focus on disinformation as the cause of the riots, rather than the mainstreaming of Islamophobia and social disintegration. A minority of Brits say Starmer is handling the disorder well Sources: BBC, YouGov, Financial Times Starmer has vowed to crack down on rioters through rapid legal processing and substantive sentencing, the BBC reported, but any post-election honeymoon period appears to be over: Just 31% of Brits say Starmer is handling the disorder well, while almost half think he is handling them badly, according to pollster YouGov. But others think that Starmers previous role as head of the countrys Crown Prosecution Service means he is arguably well-placed to deal with the current crisis, as the Financial Times noted, with one Conservative source telling the outlet that it gave him a chance to look prime ministerial. (Bloomberg) -- Foreign Secretary David Lammy is considering making a visit to China, according to people familiar with the matter, as part of the new Labour governments efforts to recalibrate the UKs relationship with Beijing. Most Read from Bloomberg Plans for the trip which would be only the second by a UK foreign secretary in the last six years havent yet been finalized, according to the people, who asked not to be identified discussing internal deliberations. No date has been set, they added. The Foreign Office declined to comment on the discussions. Before becoming prime minister at the UK general election a month ago, Keir Starmer said his government would carry out what he described as an audit of UK-China ties as one of the first things that we will do. Like its predecessors, in dealing with China Starmers Labour government wrestles with the dilemma of how to balance Britains economic and trade interests against its defense and security concerns. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni received a warm reception in Beijing late last month in a visit that underlined both the risks and benefits of engagement. Meloni skirted around the usual European Union talking points by avoiding overt criticism of either her hosts support for Russias war machine or its overcapacity in key tech industries, according to public statements, although she did warn trade ties between Italy and China must be rebalanced. The Lammy visit would be the first such trip by a British foreign secretary since James Cleverly traveled to China almost a year ago. On that occasion the former foreign secretary was seeking a reset after a rocky few years in which Chinas crackdown on democracy activists in Hong Kong and Britains resulting offer of visas for Hong Kongers marred relations already strained by the UKs restricting Chinese involvement in critical national infrastructure. More recently, tensions have ratcheted higher still. In May of this year, British officials said China was the likely culprit in a hack of UK armed forces personnels personal data. Just two months earlier, the UK had accused Chinese hackers of targeting politicians, companies and dissidents, as well as stealing troves of British voter data. Beijing denied all those allegations. The UK government faces pressure from banks including HSBC Holdings Plc and Standard Chartered Plc to tone down new national security rules that would restrict doing business with China. The previous Tory administration sought to introduce them earlier this year but wasnt able to pass the legislation before Julys election. Lammy met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at an ASEAN meeting in Laos at the end of July. The two men agreed to work towards building long-term communication channels, the foreign office said at the time, noting Lammy had urged his counterpart to ensure Chinese companies werent supporting Russias war in Ukraine. Last month, the former NATO secretary-general appointed by Starmer to lead a strategic review of Britains defense posture said China posed a deadly threat to the UK. But six weeks ago, just before taking office, incoming Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds cautioned against a binary approach to Beijing. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. The U.K.s 10 Downing Street has hit back at Elon Musks comments over violent unrest in Northern England and pushed back on his statement that civil war is inevitable. Prime Minister Keir Starmers spokesperson responded to the comment Monday, saying that there was no justification for those remarks. The U.K. has been rocked by violence after the killing of three children in a stabbing incident at a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga class in Southport last week. What weve seen in this country is organized violent thuggery that has no place either on our streets, or online, the spokesperson added in a statement to The Hill, echoing the prime ministers Sunday statement to the nation. Were talking about a minority of thugs that do not speak for Britain, the spokesperson added. Starmer convened an emergency response meeting Monday after violence across multiple cities that he blamed on far-right activists and misinformation on social media. But Musk criticized Starmer on Monday over his statement on ensuring the safety of Muslim communities and mosques in the U.K. The X CEO replied to Starmers post, asking, shouldnt you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities? U.K. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper told Parliament last week that false information had already spread online about the attackers identity and warned those who do this for their own purposes risk undermining a crucial criminal investigation. She added that misinformation on social media fanned the flames further after false rumors were amplified that the suspect was a Muslim and an asylum-seeker. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (Bloomberg) -- UK police were set to deploy thousands of officers across Britain as far-right groups planned dozens of demonstrations in what was shaping up to be a crucial test of Prime Minister Keir Starmers efforts to quell a recent wave of anti-immigrant unrest. Most Read from Bloomberg Law enforcement authorities were bracing for at least 30 events as online agitators urged supporters to converge on sites associated with migrants. Police warned they were ready to arrest hundreds if they saw a repeat of last weekends violence, when hotels housing asylum-seekers were surrounded and, in two cases, set on fire. Were doing everything we can to ensure that where a police response is needed its in place, Starmer said after an emergency security meeting with senior ministers and police chiefs late Tuesday, the second in as many days. The recent disorder has been fueled by online misinformation since an attack just over a week ago left three young girls dead in Southport, northwest England. Far-right activists falsely claimed the suspect was a Muslim asylum-seeker, stoking anti-immigrant and Islamophobic sentiment. The episode represents a high-stakes test of Starmers leadership, barely a month after his Labour Party took over from a Conservative government riven by disputes over how to handle a record rise in immigration. The premier has drawn on his experience as the nations top prosecutor during a wave rioting in 2011, promising swift prosecutions of anyone caught participating in violence. Starmer said this week authorities had agreed to mobilize a standing army of officers to deal with the anti-migrant and anti-Muslim disorder. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said Tuesday that police would get government support for overtime pay and any other resources they need. Almost 380 people involved in violent disorder have been arrested and around 100 have been charged, her office said Tuesday. The Crown Prosecution Service earlier said it was working around the clock to charge people as quickly as possible and ensure justice is served. One person has been charged with inciting violence online, sending a clear message that online agitators and organizers will also be held accountable, the Home Office said. The telecommunications regulator Ofcom urged social media companies to stop users inciting violence, and not wait for tougher rules to take effect. There is no need to wait to make your sites and apps safer for users, it said. Bloomberg reported earlier that a message being shared by far-right activists on the Telegram platform called for demonstrations at around 30 refugee and immigration centers and law firms representing asylum seekers on Wednesday. The posts urged activists to mask up. The campaign group Tell Mama, which documents anti-Muslim incidents, said it had alerted the police to the posts. Nottinghamshire Police said an address included on the list had no links to any immigration business, contradicting the claims of activists. Officers have visited the address and it is home to an elderly person with vulnerabilities. Sky News separately reported Wednesday that police were aware of more than 100 far-right protests and 30 counter-demonstrations. The broadcasters said that more than 6,000 specialist officers were set to be deployed. In a sign of concern about the risk of escalation, Labour officials urged the partys members of Parliament not to inflame tensions. Cooper asked lawmakers on private call on Wednesday not to encourage counter-protests, people familiar with matter said. Chief Government Whip Alan Campbell expressed similar concerns in a letter to MPs. That came after a home office minister, Jess Phillips, appeared to justify the decision of some men in her Birmingham constituency to don balaclavas and wave Palestinian flags in a place they thought far-right groups would target. Former Home Secretary James Cleverly said Phillips was making excuses for masked men, some of whom were accused of threatening journalists. It doesnt matter who you are or what youre protesting if you turn up in a mask, with a weapon, intent on causing disorder, you will face the full force of the law, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood said on X after the scenes in Birmingham, in an apparent rebuke of her neighboring MP. There appears to be no formal leadership structure orchestrating the anti-immigrant protests violence, and far-right activists have mobilized online using X and Telegram to call for protests. But prominent figures have been accused of stoking unrest, including Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, who is better known as Tommy Robinson. The UK government criticized Elon Musk for posting on his X platform about the riots that civil war is inevitable. Meanwhile a YouGov poll found 51% of respondents think immigration is the top issue facing the country, an increase in 10 percentage points since the middle of July. Its the first time immigration has topped the pollsters issue tracker since the year of the Brexit referendum in 2016. But it also found that there is little public support for the recent violent disorder on British streets. This country is faced with one of the worst spates of violent disorder in the last decade, the Metropolitan Polices Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine said in a statement. We will use every power, tactic and tool available to prevent further scenes of disorder. (Updates with regulator warns social media firms in seventh paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. (Reuters) - Ukraine has put additional funding towards its domestic missile programme, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Tuesday, as it tries to narrow a gap in capabilities with Russia, which has an array of long-range weapons. Ukraine, which has prioritised the production of long-range strike drones since Russia's February 2022 invasion, has tried to build up its domestic output of arms like the Neptun, a Ukrainian anti-ship missile that can also attack land targets. "...Additional funding was allocated to our missile programme. More domestically produced missiles to come," Zelenskiy wrote on the Telegram messaging app. He gave no additional details. In July, the Ukrainian leader said Kyiv was working to reduce its dependence on missiles, including ones used for air defence, that are supplied by Ukraine's allies. Kyiv has been heavily reliant on lethal military assistance from its Western partners throughout the war. It has lobbied the West to allow it to use the weapons it supplies to strike deep inside Russia. (Reporting by Yuliia Dysa; Editing by Christina Fincher) Ukraine gave a glimpse of its first F-16s what can it tell us? After more than a year of waiting, F-16s finally fly in the Ukrainian skies. President Volodymyr Zelensky unveiled two of the first U.S.-made fighter jets sporting blue-and-yellow roundels and a Ukrainian coat of arms in a ceremony on Aug. 4, confirming earlier media reports. While providing little details, the footage published by the president gave some glimpse into what kind of aircraft Ukraine received and how it intends to use them. As expected, the F-16s will serve, first of all, to boost Ukraine's sky shield. The Air Force will likely treasure its first handful likely no more than 10 of valuable jets and keep them away from dangerous Russian air defenses. Their value may grow as the rest of the roughly 80 pledged jets roll in in the coming years, presenting a potential for a broader scope of tasks. Read also: Zelensky confirms F-16s already being used by Ukrainian Air Force Protecting Ukraine's sky Ukraine's first F-16s were promised by the Netherlands and Denmark, with aircraft from Norway and Belgium to follow later this year. Both the Netherlands and Denmark have been using F-16s fitted with the Mid-Life Update (MLU) developed in the 1990s, giving them the designation F-16 AM. Although these variants lack some of the most advanced features, like the AESA radar built into the Block 70/72 versions, the F-16 AMs are nevertheless an improvement over Ukraine's Soviet-era aircraft. The weaponry visible on the two presented F-16s suggests they are likely to be used primarily for air defense purposes. According to The Telegraph, they have already carried out this task in Ukrainian skies. The War Zone defense magazine noted that the presented jets are likely equipped with AIM-9M and AIM-120 AMRAAMs air-to-air missiles, both of which are already present in Ukraine's stockpiles. The AIM-9M is an improved variant of the U.S.-made infrared homing Sidewinder missile, a traditional armament for American jets that was also repurposed for Ukrainian air defenses. Peter Layton, former Australian Air Force officer, Associate Fellow at RUSI, and Visiting Fellow at Griffith Asia Institute, said that the weaponry appears to be AIM-9M. President Volodymyr Zelensky stands in front of the first General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcons received by Ukraine and holds his hand over his heart as he congratulates Ukrainian military on the Day of Ukrainian Air Force in Ukraine on Aug. 4, 2024. (Vitalii Nosach/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) "The AIM-9M would be good enough for (intercepting) cruise missiles and drones," Layton said in a comment to the Kyiv Independent. The expert added he was expecting Ukraine's F-16s to wield AIM-9X, "which is a more modern version with higher maneuverability." Both the AIM-9M and AIM-9X boast high off-boresight capabilities, which means they can track targets that are highly distant from their boresight. This ability would be only improved by the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) Ukrainian pilots are equipped with in the published video, The War Zone commented. Russia's aerial campaign over the spring has heavily battered the country's energy grid, necessitating rolling blackouts across the country. While the situation has improved somewhat with repairs and new nuclear units plugged in, it may yet deteriorate again should Moscow restart its attacks. More powerful air defenses would be crucial to safeguarding Ukraine's energy infrastructure in the months to come. Layton agreed that the current configuration of F-16s is best suited for air defenses: "With only 10 (jets) so say seven available daily for operations using (them) for air defense against cruise missiles and Shahed drones seems reasonable." "The AIM-9 constitutes a fairly cost-effective solution for this task," Fabian Hoffmann, defense expert and doctoral research fellow at the University of Oslo, told the Kyiv Independent. "Ideally, these initial deliveries will ease the burden on Ukraine's ground-based air and missile defense and help save scarce interceptor numbers," Hoffmann said, adding that he does not expect "any type of immediate battlefield effect." Read also: How F-16s in Ukraine can help fight Russia Aircraft interception and ground strikes remain uncertain The AIM-120 AMRAAM that The War Zone also identified on the F-16s is a beyond-visual-range missile with active radar guidance that some believe will be suitable for intercepting Russian tactical bombers terrorizing Ukrainian front-line troops. Justin Bronk, Senior Research Fellow at RUSI, believes that the footage actually showed CATM-120B dummy rounds, which are the inert variant of the AIM-120B." Speaking to the Kyiv Independent, he acknowledged that "AIM-120C variants of AMRAAM may well have also been supplied," however. Yevhen Dykyi, a war veteran and a former officer of the Aidar Battalion, said on air on Freedom TV that Russian attack planes like Su-24 drop glide bombs at Ukraine from a distance of roughly 50-70 kilometers. This makes it difficult for Ukrainian front-line air defenses, most commonly with a range of 40 kilometers, to intercept them. That would not be an issue for AMRAAMs which, according to different modifications, can have a range somewhere between 100-160 kilometers, Dykyi said. However, Layton explained that such an interception would be akin to "a headshot"both aircraft would have to be traveling head-to-head at high speeds. If one aircraft turns away at such a long distance, the missile will miss. "The Russians are dropping glide bombs some 40-60 kilometers inside Russian airspace and then turning away," Layton said. F-16 Fighting Falcons perform in the sky as President Volodymyr Zelensky delivers a speech congratulating the Ukrainian military on the stand in front of the first General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon received by Ukraine in Ukraine on Aug. 4, 2024. (Ukrainian Presidency/Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images) "The F-16 would have to be heading directly towards the Russian fighter at over 500 knots ( 926 km/h) and launch at, say, 50 kilometers," the expert noted, saying that this would put the F-16 within the range of Russian air defenses. The interception would not be impossible but would require "coordination from a ground radar site or an AWACS," which "would be hard for the Ukrainian Air Force to arrange," Layton added. Luckily for Ukraine, the arrival of the ACS-890 surveillance planes promised by Sweden is likely to improve its F-16s' range capabilities in the future. Another key feature observable on the Ukrainian F-16s are the Pylon Integrated Dispensing System Plus (PIDS+), which can include Electronic Combat Integrated Pylon System Plus (ECIPS+), both produced by Terma in Denmark, The War Zone writes. The pylons serve as self-defense systems, capable of spotting incoming missiles and dispersing flares. The ECIPS+ also boasts an electronic warfare suite. What was not visible on Ukraine's new F-16s is also telling. Layton said he saw "no indication that the aircraft have an air-to-ground role." "There (was) no LANTIRN pod fitted or its carriage pylon visible," the expert said, referring to a U.S.-made targeting pod system used for precision strikes against ground targets. This would mean that when launching long-range weapons like Storm Shadow or SCALP, Ukraine will likely continue to rely on its Soviet-era Su-24 and possibly on France's Mirage 2000-5s after their arrival. Even if the other F-16s Ukraine receives are better suited for ground targets, Kyiv will likely be limited by the restrictions on strikes deep within Russian territory. Washington already said it made no change to its policy after the arrival of F-16s, meaning U.S.-made arms can be used only on Ukrainian territory or just across the Russian border. While Denmark and the Netherlands indicated that Ukraine would be able to use their F-16s to strike targets inside Russian airspace "as self-defense," many such announcements made by the Western allies in the past have proven hollow. Belgium, in turn, said their F-16s are for use within Ukrainian airspace only. This means Ukrainian F-16s are unlikely to be devastating airfields or parked bomber planes in Russia anytime soon. Bronk said that the F-16s may be of some use against ground targets, as they present a "more efficient way to deliver stand-off glide bombs like GBU-39 and GBU-62 against fixed targets on the front lines and HARM missiles to suppress Russian air defenses." What next? Though the first jets finally landed in Ukraine, the work has just begun. The Ukrainian Air Force must now move away from its Soviet-era heritage to adapt to Western systems. On the bright side, the arsenal of Western arms shipped in the past two years will make the process at least somewhat easier. Another key task is the protection of airfields. The first General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcons received by Ukraine fly on the Day of Ukrainian Air Force in an unspecified location, Ukraine on Aug. 4, 2024. (Vitalii Nosach/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) Only weeks before their arrival, Russia launched several successful strikes against Ukrainian air bases, allegedly destroying several Soviet-era aircraft while their reconnaissance drones hovered above. Russia will certainly seek to destroy the U.S.-made aircraft as soon as possible, not only for military purposes but also as a propaganda boost. To avoid that, Ukraine is reportedly preparing underground bunkers for the F-16s. Additional air defenses, in which Kyiv is also growing increasingly reliant on Western supplies, are also a key factor. Some 20 F-16s are expected to arrive in Ukraine this year, and some 60 afterward. However, Zelensky said the country needs at least 128 F-16s to counter Russian airpower successfully. Efforts to obtain more commitments and to speed up the delivery of the already-promised aircraft are underway. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukrainian forces launched more drones in July than Russian troops, President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed in his evening address on Aug. 6. Throughout Russias full-scale invasion, Ukraine and Russia have heavily invested in drone technology, revolutionizing warfare. For outnumbered Ukrainian forces, drones have been one of the key weapons to strike Russian warships, naval bases, oil refineries, and airfields inside occupied territories and deep behind Russia's lines. "In terms of this, Ukraine's Defense and Security Forces are already gaining an advantage, and in July our soldiers used more drones than the occupier. This should be a steady trend on the front line for all types of drones that our units have," Zelensky said. According to the president, by becoming a leader in drone development, Kyiv could be "a security provider for other states." One million drones have been contracted for Ukrainian manufacturers through 2024, he said. "We do not disclose all the details now, but our capacity to produce drones is constantly growing, and we are working not only with state funding, but also with partners to invest in our drone production," Zelensky added. Kyiv has the production capacity to produce more than three million drones a year but requires financing from foreign partners, Deputy Strategic Industries Minister Hanna Hvozdiar said. In the first half of 2024, Ukrainian soldiers received six times more drones than last year, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Ukraines Armed Forces Vadym Sukharevskyi said in July. Read also: Ukraines missile program to get additional funding, Zelensky says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Key developments on Aug. 6: Moscow claims clashes with Ukrainian troops in Russia's Kursk region, Kyiv hasn't commented Ukraine's missile program to get additional funding, Zelensky says Russian missile attack on Kharkiv kills 1, injures 12, including infant State Department: The arrival of F-16s has not changed US policy on Ukrainian strikes inside Russia Ukraine's project helps to locate 588 missing Russian soldiers Russia's Defense Ministry claimed that Ukrainian soldiers broke into the territory of Russia's Kursk region on Aug. 6. The statement came after Russian pro-war Telegram channels wrote that a sabotage and reconnaissance group with heavy equipment had entered the Kursk region in the morning. Kursk region lies on the border with Ukraine's Sumy Oblast, which has been experiencing daily Russian attacks since the liberation of its parts in April 2022. Russia's Defense Ministry claimed around 5 p.m. local time that up to 300 soldiers of Ukraine's 22nd Separate Mechanized Brigade, equipped with tanks and armored vehicles, had allegedly attacked Russian units near the border settlements of Nikolaevo-Darino and Oleshnya in the Kursk region. According to the Russian ministry, the clashes are ongoing, and "reserves of the Russian group of troops are heading to the Kursk direction." Ukraine's 22nd Separate Mechanized Brigade has not commented on these claims, which cannot be independently verified. Earlier in the day, Aleksey Smirnov, the governor of Russia's Kursk Oblast, claimed that Russian border guards "prevented a border breakthrough" in the Sudzhansky and Korenevsky districts. Andrii Kovalenko, the head of an anti-disinformation department at the National Security and Defense Council, said that Russia "doesn't control the border." "Russian military commanders lie about controlling the situation in Kursk Oblast," he wrote in the Telegram post. In the meantime, multiple explosions were reported in the city of Sumy and the surrounding region on Aug. 6, amid intensified Russian missile and glide bomb attacks on the region throughout the day. Russian troops attacked infrastructure near Sumy, the local authorities said. No casualties were reported. Separately, Ukrainian authorities said that forces in the area downed a Russian helicopter, a ballistic missile, and two drones. The crowd-sourced monitoring website DeepState shared pictures on Aug. 6 appearing to show a downed Russian Ka-52 attack helicopter and two destroyed tanks amid reports of a cross-border incursion into Kursk Oblast. The photos could not be independently verified. In March, three anti-Kremlin Russian armed groups units launched incursions into Belgorod and Kursk oblasts from Ukraine, allegedly resulting in clashes with Russian forces in several settlements. The incursions were immediately followed by relentless Russian attacks on the regional capital of Sumy and the region. Andrii Yusov, a spokesperson of Ukraine's military intelligence, confirmed to the Kyiv Independent at the time that anti-Kremlin militias' raids made Moscow "change plans" on a possible new attack in Ukraine's northern sector. When asked by the Kyiv Independent about Russian claims on Aug. 6, the Freedom of Russia Legion, which was involved in two raids before, and the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces refused to comment. Ukraines military intelligence (HUR) and the Armed Forces of Ukraine refused to comment on the matter. Read also: Opinion: Something is rotten in the state of Russian arms industry Ukraine's missile program to get additional funding, Zelensky says Ukraine will allocate additional funding for the country's missile program, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Aug. 6. The decision was made at the commander-in-chief headquarters meeting on Aug. 6. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and Minister for Strategic Industries Alexander Kamyshin briefed the president on the production of Ukrainian drones and missiles. "There will be more missiles of our production," Zelensky said, without providing details. Ukraine began actively developing its missile program after Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. In late July, Zelensky said the program had "good dynamics." "We are getting closer to being able to use our own missiles, and not just rely on missiles from our partners," he added. Ukraine has continuously pressed its Western allies for longer-range weapons but faced hesitation about delivering arms that could potentially be used to strike within Russian territory. The U.S. granted Kyiv limited permission to use certain American weapons to strike Russian targets near the region's border. The British Storm Shadow missiles, as well as their French equivalent SCALP, have a range of up to 250 kilometers (150 miles), while the Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) sent to Ukraine by Washington can fly roughly 300 kilometers (190 miles). Kyiv has repeatedly struck targets deep inside Russia with homemade weapons, mainly with drones. Ukraine's arsenal reportedly includes arms with a range of over 1,000 kilometers. Read also: Ukraine launched more drones than Russia in July, Zelensky claims Russian missile attack on Kharkiv kills 1, injures 12, including infant A Russian missile attack against Kharkiv on Aug. 6 killed one person and injured 12 others, including an eight-month-old baby, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. Russia struck the Shevchenkivskyi city district with an Iskander missile at around 10 a.m., damaging a clinic, cars, and other civilian infrastructure, Governor Oleh Syniehubov said. Two of the victims have been hospitalized, the governor said. More people are thought to be trapped under the rubble. Attacks on population centers in Kharkiv Oblast intensified after Russian forces launched a new cross-border offensive in the northern part of the region in May. While Ukrainian troops have halted the advance, Russia continues to hold a handful of border settlements. Read also: Harris VP pick Governor Tim Walz good news for Ukraine State Department: Arrival of F-16s has not changed US policy on Ukrainian strikes inside Russia The U.S. policy on Ukrainian strikes deep into Russian territory with American weapons remains unchanged, despite the arrival of F-16 fighting jets in Ukraine, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said during a press briefing on Aug. 5. The U.S. gave Ukraine permission on June 1 to use some American-supplied weapons, including HIMARS rockets, to strike targets in Russia located near the border with Kharkiv Oblast after Russia launched a renewed offensive in the region on May 10. Ukraine is still prohibited from using ATACMS and other long-range U.S.-supplied weapons for strikes deeper inside Russia. The U.S. will decide on the use of American-made weapons provided to Ukraine, including F-16 fighters, for strikes in Russia depending on the situation on the battlefield and the needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, according to Miller. "My answer has not changed today (Aug. 5), which is we constantly look at the needs of the Ukrainian military, we assess the security situation, and we try to be responsive to their needs," Miller said. This process "has been going on from the very beginning to the present day," the spokesperson added. President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on Aug. 4 that the first batch of F-16s had arrived in Ukraine and that the jets were already being used by Ukrainian pilots. Kyiv received a number of F-16s one year after the launch of the Danish-Dutch-led "fighter jet coalition" at the NATO summit in Vilnius in July 2023. Ukraine has been promised at least 79 F-16s from the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, and Belgium. The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon is an American air superiority fighter that Kyiv has requested from its partners since the start of the full-scale invasion. Read also: Ukraine gave a glimpse of its first F-16s what can it tell us? Ukraine's project helps to locate 588 missing Russian soldiers Ukraine's project "Khochu naiti" ("I want to find" in Russian) has helped to locate 588 missing Russian soldiers since its launch in January, as reported on the service's Telegram channel on Aug. 5. Some 533 of the Russian soldiers were found alive among prisoners of war (POW), and 100 of them had already been released to Russia as a part of a prisoner exchange. Fifty-five were identified as deceased. The remains of 33 of them were handed over to Russia. The service said it had received 20,098 requests from relatives of Russian soldiers since the start of the year. The project was launched in January by Ukraine's POW Coordination Headquarters as a sign of Ukraine's commitment to the principles of international humanitarian law, its website reads. "Russian officials do not properly communicate with the relatives of soldiers. No one informs the families about what happens to Russian Army servicemen after they end up as invaders and occupiers in Ukraine," Ukraine's military intelligence spokesperson Andrii Yusov said when presenting the project. "(The project) concerns the missing soldiers, POWs, and those killed." In September 2022, Ukraine's POW Coordination Headquarters launched the project "Khochu Zhit" ("I want to live" in Russian) with the support of the Defense Ministry and military intelligence. The project was created for Russian and Belarusian service members to surrender as prisoners of war voluntarily. The spokesperson for the "Khochu Zhyt" project said on March 31 that they receive 50 to 100 appeals from Russian soldiers and their relatives every day. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine's defence forces shoot down Russian helicopter over Sumy Oblast On 8 August, Ukraine's defence forces shot down a Russian helicopter over Sumy Oblast. Source: Sumy Oblast Military Administration on Telegram Quote: "Today, on 6 August, defence and security forces downed an enemy ballistic missile, two unmanned aerial vehicles, and one helicopter in the skies over Sumy Oblast. Thank you to our defenders!" Support UP or become our patron! Ukraine will allocate additional funding for the country's missile program, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Aug. 6. The decision was made at the commander-in-chief headquarters meeting on Aug. 6. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and Minister for Strategic Industries Alexander Kamyshin briefed the president on the production of Ukrainian drones and missiles. "There will be more missiles of our production," Zelensky said, without providing details. Ukraine began actively developing its missile program after Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. In late July, Zelensky said the program had "good dynamics." "We are getting closer to being able to use our own missiles, and not just rely on missiles from our partners," he added. Ukraine has continuously pressed its Western allies for longer-range weapons but faced hesitation about delivering arms that could potentially be used to strike within Russian territory. The U.S. granted Kyiv limited permission to use certain American weapons to strike Russian targets near the region's border. The British Storm Shadow missiles, as well as their French equivalent SCALP, have a range of up to 250 kilometers (150 miles), while the Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) sent to Ukraine by Washington can fly roughly 300 kilometers (190 miles). Kyiv has repeatedly struck targets deep inside Russia with homemade weapons, mainly with drones. Ukraine's arsenal reportedly includes arms with a range of over 1,000 kilometers. Read also: 18 Bohdana howitzers heading for Ukraines battlefield heres what they can do Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine's project "Khochu naiti" (I want to find) has helped to locate 588 missing Russian soldiers since its launch in January, as reported on the service's Telegram channel on Aug. 5. Some 533 of the Russian soldiers were found alive among prisoners of war (POW), and 100 of them had already been released to Russia as a part of a prisoner exchange. Fifty-five were identified as deceased. The remains of 33 of them were handed over to Russia. The service said it had received 20,098 requests from relatives of Russian soldiers since the start of the year. The project was launched in January by Ukraine's POW Coordination Headquarters as a sign of Ukraine's commitment to the principles of international humanitarian law, its website reads. "Russian officials do not properly communicate with the relatives of soldiers. No one informs the families about what happens to Russian Army servicemen after they end up as invaders and occupiers in Ukraine," Ukraine's military intelligence spokesperson Andrii Yusov said when presenting the project. "(The project) concerns the missing soldiers, POWs, and those killed." In September 2022, Ukraine's POW Coordination Headquarters launched the project "Khochu Zhit" (I want to live) with the support of the Defense Ministry and military intelligence. The project was created for Russian and Belarusian service members to surrender as prisoners of war voluntarily. The spokesperson for the "Khochu Zhyt" project said on March 31 that they receive 50 to 100 appeals from Russian soldiers and their relatives every day. Read also: Ukraine seeks to exchange pro-Russian collaborators for civilian hostages under new initiative Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Quantum computing may still largely be in the theoretical domain, but the money that its attracting is very real. Riverlane, a specialist in quantum error correction technology, has raised $75 million to continue expanding its R&D and operations to build its operations amid a surge of interest from quantum computing customers technologists hard at work building what could be the next great leap in computing power, if only they can tame those fail rates. Riverlane believes it holds the answer to that problem: The startup is building technology that fits on chips used in quantum computing systems and can track, predict and fix the errors generated by quantum bits (known as qubits). "Even five years ago, I would have said that only one of these qubit types is going to work, said Steve Brierley, Riverlanes founder and CEO, in an interview in his Cambridge office. But actually, what we've seen is they've all progressed [along a] Moores law rate. It seems to me that the pieces are in place to get to the first generation of error-corrected quantum computers. And this will be really significant because it will be the first time that a quantum computer goes beyond the capability of any supercomputer. Sources close to the company told TechCrunch that with this round, Cambridge, England-based Riverlanes valuation is now above $400 million. And for a company that is working on breaking completely new ground in a cutting-edge field, its achieved another kind of first with this fundraise: Its the first quantum computing startup in Europe to raise a Series C. In itself, this is a signal that while quantum computing specialists are still working to scale their models the industry is moving into more mature growth funding on the heels of confidence and commitment that they will. A trio of investors who describe themselves as focused on sustainability are coming in as first-time backers of the startup with this round. Planet First Partners is leading the Series C, with participation from ETF Partners and Singapores EDBI. Previous backers Cambridge Innovation Capital (CIC), Amadeus Capital Partners, the U.K.'s National Security Strategic Investment Fund (NSSIF), and Altair also invested. Quantum computing efforts are somewhat based on a leap of faith, as much of the concept has been proven only on smaller-scale efforts. Founded by Brierley while he was still a research fellow at Cambridge, where he had been researching how to solve the problem of error rates, Riverlane is very much part of that continuum. However, visiting the startup's offices in Cambridge, there are clear signs of how activity is gradually moving from concept into production. The company has built an operations center where it is remotely linking up with early quantum computers before embedding chips into physical systems. Riverlane focuses on a product it calls Deltaflow, a combination of QEC chips and hardware, as well as software, which it says will be capable of correcting billions of errors per second. If used in a system today, the company says the tech would represent a massive jump for current quantum computing efforts, which can typically run a few hundred operations before failing due to error rates. The idea is that using error correction tech like Deltaflow can improve operations enough to run millions of operations, and with time, trillions of them. That would in turn make quantum computers usable for calculating and working on the thorniest and most complex problems in areas like pharmaceuticals, transportation, chemistry and more (perhaps even in AI applications). The companys vision it's still very much a vision, even with more than 100 engineers and other specialists (it's hiring more now) and some customers is laid out in a quantum error correction (QEC) roadmap that it published in July, which lays out what it plans to release in future products. Riverlane doesnt disclose its full list of customers but said it includes Rigetti Computing, Alice & Bob, QuEra Computing, Infleqtion, Atlantic Quantum and the Oak Ridge National Lab in the U.S. and the U.K.s National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC). "We invest in companies with the potential to have a transformative impact on society and the environment," said Nathan Medlock, managing partner at Planet First Partners, in a statement. "Riverlanes focus on quantum error correction, coupled with its collaboration with quantum computer makers worldwide, can accelerate the global market and enable new quantum computing applications that can substantially contribute to solving social and environmental issues." Updated to correct the spelling of Steve Brierley. JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) received a $1 million grant to help combat the states alarming rate of congenital syphilis the past few years. The grant was awarded to UMMC by the federal Health Resources and Services Administration. The funds will launch a yearlong intensive initiative to increase syphilis awareness, testing and treatment with a specific focus on preventing and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Its a nationwide problem but its especially problematic here, said. Dr. Thomas Dobbs, dean of the John D. Bower School of Population Health at UMMC. And our numbers might be higher since the detection and reporting of STIs (sexually transmitted infections) were significantly less during the pandemic years. In 2021, Mississippi ranked sixth in the nation for syphilis incidence, at 28.1 cases per 100,000 people, and fourth nationally on congenital syphilis incidence, at 182 per 100,000 live births. Congenital syphilis involves the infection of a baby from a mother who is already infected. Are microplastics really harming us? Between 2017 and 2021, the congenital syphilis rate rose by 220% nationwide, while the rate skyrocketed by a staggering 6,641 percent in Mississippi, Dobbs said. Part of the reason for the continued spike is access to care. Another part is the pandemic preventing people from getting screened and the diversion of public resources needed to fight COVID. But research and modeling have shown us the increase preceded the pandemic. Theres been declining usage of condoms, plus available methods of birth control dont necessarily prevent STIs, he said. UMMC will partner with a variety of clinics and community-based organizations across the state to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of syphilis in the general population. The Medical Center will also work with the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) to ensure completion of treatment of syphilis patients and partner tracing. In addition to a social media and advertising blitz throughout the state targeting population centers such as metro Jackson, Hattiesburg and Desoto County as well as underserved populations in the Mississippi Delta the initiative also aims to bring universal access to syphilis testing for all patients in the emergency room at the main campus and hopefully affiliate hospitals in Grenada and Holmes County. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. By Michelle Nichols UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - Senior United Nations officials appealed to the Security Council on Tuesday for help in getting humanitarian aid access in Sudan "across borders, across battle lines, by air, by land" to fight famine that has taken hold in at least one site in North Darfur. The United States last month suggested that the 15-member body consider authorizing aid access through border crossings like Adre from Chad. But Sudan's army-aligned government and council veto-power Russia said on Tuesday that there was no need for Security Council action. "If there is a famine ... we are ready to cooperate with you, and we will open the crossings for any humanitarian assistance. It is not the government - that I am proud to present here - that is blocking humanitarian aid," Sudan's U.N. Ambassador Al-Harith Idriss Al-Harith Mohamed told the council. A global hunger monitor - the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) - last week said more than 15 months of war in Sudan and restrictions on aid deliveries have caused famine in North Darfur's Zamzam camp for internally displaced people. Sudan's government has rejected the finding, while Russia cast doubt on it. The war in Sudan erupted in mid-April last year from a power struggle between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) ahead of a planned transition to civilian rule. Zamzam is in an area that is the last significant holdout from the RSF across Darfur. The RSF has been besieging the area and no aid has reached the sprawling camp for months. "When famine happens, it means we are too late. It means we did not do enough. It means that we, the international community, have failed," senior U.N. aid official Edem Wosornu told the Security Council on Tuesday. CROSS-BORDER ACCESS In February, the government banned aid deliveries through the Adre border crossing, one of the shortest routes to the hunger-stricken region. Government officials have claimed that the crossing is used by the RSF to move weapons. Wosornu said Adre "would be the most effective route and would allow assistance to be delivered at the speed and scale required at this crucial, critical point." She also said that a U.N. Sudan aid appeal for $2.7 billion was only 32% funded. Senior U.N. World Food Programme official Stephen Omollo said that until there was a ceasefire, "we urgently need the council's help to ensure we can carry out our work effectively, and without interference," adding that access was needed via Adre and other cross-border supply routes. U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield has suggested the Security Council consider adopting a resolution to approve cross-border aid deliveries into Sudan, mirroring action it took on Syria. No such action is imminent, diplomats said. Russia's Deputy U.N. Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy told the council on Tuesday that the international community "should not interfere in the domestic affairs of Sudan on the pretext of the severe humanitarian situation and indicate to the legitimate authorities what humanitarian corridors should be open." Between 2014 and 2023 the council authorized aid deliveries from neighboring countries to millions of people largely in opposition-held areas of Syria. Authorization was needed because Syrian authorities did not agree to the operation. (Reporting by Michelle Nichols, additional reporting by Yomna Ehab and Nick Zieminski) ZURICH (Reuters) - A United Nations expert on Tuesday condemned Israel's killing last week of Al Jazeera journalist Ismail Al-Ghoul and cameraman Ramy El Rify in Gaza and urged that the deaths be prosecuted as a war crime. The two men died in a July 31 airstrike by the Israeli military, which said Al-Ghoul was a Hamas operative who took part in the Oct. 7 attack against Israel. The Israel Defence Forces has released a document seized from Hamas computers that it said corroborates its claim. "I strongly denounce the deliberate targeting by Israel of two journalists in Gaza, which adds to an already appalling toll of reporters and media workers killed in this war," Irene Khan, the U.N. Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression, said in a statement. Israel's military said Al-Ghoul belonged to the elite Nukhba unit and was involved in recording and publicizing attacks on Israeli troops. Al Jazeera rejected what it said were "baseless allegations" and said Al-Ghoul had worked for the network since November 2023 and his only profession was as a journalist. The IDF said the Hamas documents it had seized in Gaza listed members of the organization's military wing, and that as of 2021, Al-Ghoul had been an engineer in the Hamas Gaza Brigade. Khan said journalists are protected as civilians under international humanitarian law and targeting them deliberately was a war crime. That status is only forfeit if they participate directly in hostilities, and Israel had not provided concrete evidence of that, she said. "Given Israel's failure to heed earlier calls for accountability, I urge the International Criminal Court to move swiftly to prosecute the killings of journalists in Gaza as a war crime and call on the international community to urgently consider the use of international mechanisms to investigate crimes against journalists in Gaza," she added. (Reporting by Dave Graham; Additional reporting by James Mackenzie in Jerusalem; Editing by Bernadette Baum) Lei Jun, founder and CEO of Xiaomi, speaks at the 2024 Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) Annual Conference in Beijing, capital of China, April 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua] Lei Jun, chief executive officer of Xiaomi Corp, has made a comeback into the Top 10 Forbes China Best CEO list 2024, riding the company's successful foray into electric vehicles. Lei joined other prominent Chinese corporate executives such as Chen Lei and Zhao Jiazhen, both Pinduoduo CEOs, Zeng Yuqun, CEO of EV battery maker Contemporary Amperex Technology Ltd, Wang Chuanfu, CEO of carmaker BYD, and Zhong Shanshan, CEO of bottled water company Nongfu Spring, on the list. All the 10 companies concerned saw an average stock price increase of 47 percent and a net profit growth rate of 170 percent during the performance evaluation period. Lei steered Xiaomi, a global major in smartphones, into EVs with the launch of the SU7. This move redefined the company's market strategy, said Forbes. The SU7, which was unveiled in December and launched in late March, made a spectacular market debut, with 88,898 units sold within the first 24 hours, largely driven by Lei's adept use of livestreaming for sales, the list said. Founded in 2010, Xiaomi quickly rose to China's smartphone market leader with its competitive pricing strategy. Lei's personal marketing approach, positioning himself as a relatable tech enthusiast, has resonated with consumers in China, observers said. In 2020, Lei launched his personal account on short video social media platforms such as WeChat and Douyin. This has bolstered his influence. His Douyin account is followed by 28.8 million people. In April this year, when Lei delivered the SU7 to its first customer in Beijing, what impressed social media users was the billionaire CEO humbly opening the car door to the new owner. The ensuing online buzz quickly translated into sales, auto industry insiders said. In the first quarter of this year, Xiaomi's revenue was 75.5 billion yuan ($10.59 billion), up 27 percent year-on-year, which generated a net profit of 6.5 billion yuan, up 101 percent year-on-year. Xiaomi data showed 7,058 vehicles were delivered in April alone; and 8,630 more vehicles reached consumers in May, and more than 10,000 vehicles in June. Xiaomi is expected to reach its 2024 target of 120,000 vehicles by early November, said Lei. His innovative use of personal branding in the company's marketing push has set a new standard, observers said. "His livestreaming events and social media interactions have not only driven sales but created strong emotional connections with consumers," said Jason Yu, general manager of Kantar Worldpanel China. This strategy of anchoring content marketing in Lei's unique personality highlights the irreplaceable value of a founder's personal brand equity in corporate marketing, said Yu. A related instance is that of Zhou Hongyi, founder and chairman of Chinese internet enterprise 360 Security Group. He gained popularity at the Beijing Auto Show in April with his interactions with Chinese domestic EV users. He later urged every CEO to develop his/her own personal brand for better marketing. UN humanitarian official tells the Security Council that aid to starving Sudanese is being blocked This is a locator map for Sudan with its capital, Khartoum. (AP Photo) UNITED NATIONS (AP) A U.N. humanitarian official told the Security Council on Tuesday that life-saving supplies are ready to be loaded and dispatched to a famine-stricken displacement camp in Sudan but the civil war's combatants won't let them through. Edem Wosornu, operations director for the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, told the council it is still possible to stop this freight train of suffering but that requires "the urgency that this moment demands. A report released Thursday found that the Zamzam camp in southern Sudan likely faces famine and the crisis will continue as long as the conflict and limited humanitarian access continue. At least 500,000 people are sheltering in the camp, according to the report. Sudan plunged into conflict in April 2023 when fighting broke out between the military and a powerful paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces, in the capital, Khartoum. The U.N. says over 14,000 people have been killed and 33,000 wounded, and more than 10 million are displaced. Twenty-six million people in Sudan face acute hunger, Wosornu said. She said that since May the U.N. and partners have delivered food assistance to 2.5 million people facing the worst levels of hunger. The relief supplies now waiting to be shipped to Zamzam include essential medicines, nutritional supplies, water purification tablets and soap, Wosornu said. Humanitarian workers cannot access additional supplies in neighboring eastern Chad after heavy rains flooded the last cross-border route that Sudanese authorities had permitted for aid transport. We simply cannot move the large volume of supplies required to save lives and fight back famine, Wosornu said. World Food Program Assistant Executive Director Stephen Omollo told the council that the agency will target people in Sudan facing emergency, catastrophic levels of hunger for aid delivery. We are significantly scaling up operations across the country to curb the spread of famine boosting our capacity, presence and resources, Omollo said. The WFP official added that the organization will continue providing food and cash assistance to refugees in Chad as well as neighboring South Sudan and Libya. Wosornu said the U.N. plans to distribute more than $100 million in cash and voucher assistance before the end of the year. But both officials both urged Security Council members to increase humanitarian funding. The humanitarian appeal for Sudan has received only $883 million of the $2.7 billion required, or 33%, according to OCHA. Omollo also said the new report on famine must serve as a wake-up call for the council to persuade Sudans warring parties to halt fighting and secure cross-border aid routes. Wosornu said aid workers in Sudan are harassed, attacked, and even killed, while supply convoys carrying food, medicine and fuel have been subjected to looting and extortion. Sudanese U.N. ambassador Mohamed Ibrahim Elbahi accused the U.N. of downplaying the paramilitarys practices of looting aid convoys including the theft of more than 4,000 liters of fuel (1,057 gallons) from a U.N. convoy this week and deliberately starving civilians. The fact that these violations are not condemned emboldens (the RSF) to commit more atrocities. It also contributes to a wrong narrative on the source of real suffering in Sudan, Elbahi said. Elbahi also contested the humanitarian officials claims related to border crossings, saying Sudanese authorities opened nine air, sea and land crossings this year, in addition to approving visas for thousands of aid workers. The ambassador also vehemently denied that the Zamzam camp faces famine, accusing the experts behind it of declaring famine on a political basis as punishment for Sudanese authorities despite their cooperation with the U.N. CENTRAL ILLINOIS (WMBD) In the past year, there were delays for students applying for financial aid. Looking ahead to the fall semester, representatives from Bradley, Illinois State and Illinois Wesleyan Universities said despite the obstacles they had during the spring, most students can start the new school year without worry. Most of our students have now been packaged with financial aid. But the impact of delays continue to happen, said Bridget Curl, ISUs director of financial aid. In 2023, when launching a simplified version of the free application for federal student aid, the federal government delayed the application launch date from Oct. 1 to late December. This created a domino effect of delays when it came to awarding students aid, then in turn, affecting their college decisions. Were still seeing, nationwide, a decline in the number of percentage of the FAFSA filers, said Angie Cooksy, Bradleys VP for enrollment management, marketing and communications. Which is concerning at the college level because its yet to be seen what the impact of this delay will have long term of whether or not those students will still engage in the college process or we will lose them all together. Financial aid offices have worked tirelessly throughout the summer to make sure students can receive the funds they need to continue their education. Every week we are getting notifications of new issues, new fixes, new work-arounds and so our staff are having to stay on top of that, said Curl. So, how they can figure out how whos impacted, analyzing our data, and then conducting outreach that we do as soon as we are able to. Then we look to see how are those students impacted. As loose-ends are tied up for the 2024-25 academic school year, there are some concerns for the following year. One of the challenges, as schools and financial aid are concerned about, as they are still so much working on the 24-25 FAFSA, even today, whats 2025-26 going to look like? Will it be on time?, said, Scott Seibring, IWUs director of financial aid. As of July 30, it was announced institutions will not be able to make batch corrections. The universities are now having to manually make any necessary changes to student applications. If students are having any issues, they are to contact their respective financial aid office. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. Two men in suits, seated and speaking to each other. Sens. Clyde Chambliss, R-Prattville (left) and Will Barfoot, R-Pike Road, speak during a session of the Alabama Senate on Feb. 22, 2024 at the Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery, Alabama. The Senate Thursday debated a bill sponsored by Barfoot that would ban publicly-funded diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs and subject teachers who use so-called "divisive concepts" to discipline or termination. (Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector) The University of South Alabama (USA) will eliminate its DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) offices, becoming the latest state school to retreat from the programs amid a new state law. USA President Jo Bonner announced in a letter to the university community on Aug. 2 that the university closed its Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion after the Alabama Legislature last spring approved a bill that limited the use of public funds for DEI offices. Although the law does not take effect until Oct. 1, we are moving thoughtfully and deliberately to ensure we are fully in compliance prior to that date while, at the same time, supporting students, faculty and staff through this process. We join other universities across the state in making changes, he said in the letter. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Webpages and information for USAs DEI initiative had been taken down by Monday afternoon. Lance Crawford, director of media relations, said that two positions are being eliminated as a result of the new law. Both employees will be encouraged to apply for open positions within the University, he said in an email Bonners letter said the university would expand engagement efforts through volunteerism, service learning and community-based research. These efforts will continue to be supported by our Office of Community Engagement, led by Dr. Joel Lewis Billingsley as its vice president, he wrote. A message seeking comment was left with Billingsley. Crawford did not answer questions about whether USA would attempt to replace the program. The University of Alabama system announced a successor office after closing its DEI program. Auburn, which also closed its DEI office, did not announce a new office but said employees would be reassigned to roles within the university. Bonner said in the letter that the new law does not diminish our commitment to academic freedom or to furthering a culture of belonging and respect. SB 129, sponsored by Sen. Will Barfoot, R-Pike Road, limited the use of public funds for DEI and limited the ability of public employees to discuss so-called divisive concepts. A person violating the act could face discipline or lose their job. The student body at the University of South Alabama is 62% white, 21% Black, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 4% Asian, 4% two or more races, 0.6% Native American or Alaska Native, and 0.2% Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islanders. These figures include full-time, part-time, graduate, and undergraduate students. The population in Alabama is 64% white, 26% Black, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, .7 Native American or Alaska Native and 1.5% Asian. Bonner said that university officials have been preparing to work through any logistics and concerns for months before the new law takes effect Oct. 1. I remain grateful to all who have helped in this transition and confident in the success we will achieve by taking deliberate action to engage, educate and advance as the Flagship of the Gulf Coast, he wrote. DONATE: SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST Upstate emergency services agencies are preparing for Tropical Storm Debby and the heavy rainfall it is expected to bring to South Carolina. Hurricane Debby made landfall on the coast of Florida Monday morning as a Category 1 hurricane. It was downgraded to a tropical storm and was set to make its way up near the coastline of South Carolina and Georgia on Tuesday. The storm was expected to move slowly toward the South Carolina coast on Wednesday and Thursday before moving northward. Gov. Henry McMaster has issued a state of emergency for South Carolina and asked residents to monitor local forecasts and begin taking proper precautions. The executive order activates the South Carolina Emergency Operations Plan and enables all state agencies to coordinate resources in preparation for Tropical Storm Debby. "Team South Carolina is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Debby and has begun preparing for its potential impact on our state," McMaster said Monday. "With a potentially significant rainfall event forecast for the next few days, it is critical that residents in potentially affected areas start making preparations and plans today in case it is necessary to take quick action." President Joe Biden approved the state's emergency declaration late Monday afternoon. The declaration allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to "coordinate all disaster relief efforts." According to the National Weather Service, the Upstate can expect around three inches of rain, but South Carolina coastal areas are at risk of flooding due to the hurricanes slowing of its path on Wednesday and Thursday. Each county's emergency management service is watching to see how the storm will affect the Upstate while others are also sending resources to portions of the state that are in direct line with the storm. More: Jim Cantore is in Charleston: That's not a good sign ahead of historic flooding forecast Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson prepare Greenville County Emergency Management Services plans to send at least a dozen responders to the coastline in the coming days. According to GCEMS director Jessica Stumpf, the specific number will be decided in the next several days. On Tuesday, the GCEMS sent around nine units to the Charleston area. The different units came from the members the Greenville County Special Operations Team, Boiling Springs Fire District, Gantt District Fire Department, Taylors Fire and Rescue and the Donaldson Center Fire Department. More are expected to make the trip during the coming days and the team as a whole is expected to be in Charleston until at least Sunday. The Spartanburg County Emergency Management Services director, Doug Bryson, said his agency will monitor the storm and will be on standby if help is needed. Capt. Ryan Herring, and fireman Justin Pelfrey, right, of Anderson Fire Station 3, and Anderson Technical Rescue, talk about deployment from City of Anderson fire station 3, as people stay tuned to Hurricane Debby activity Monday, August 5, 2024 at the headquarters in Anderson, S.C.. "Emergency Preparedness Plans and Public Communication are in place," said City of Anderson Mayor Terrace Roberts. "We have various channels to inform citizens of potential storm damage." The Anderson County Technical Rescue team will send four crew members to areas hit by the storm and other rescue resources will be on standby, according to Anderson Emergency Services Director Josh Hawkins. Hawkins said all emergency and communication equipment, including generators, were inspected Monday morning, in preparation for the storm. "As we continue to monitor Hurricane Debby, we advise residents to stock up on three days' worth of supplies if necessary and ensure they have ample water, non-perishable food items, flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio ready to use," Hawkins said. He also said it's also wise to prepare a go-kit, especially if evacuation is necessary. "Don't forget to include essential medication and diapers in your supplies," he added. "We will have first responders available to assist in case of emergency." Duke Energy preparations "We are closely monitoring Debby as much of our service territory in South and North Carolina could be impacted by the extensive rain currently predicted in the coming days," said Ryan Mosier, Duke's principal communication manager. The company plans to strategically place more than 6,100 skilled workers ready to respond as the storm moves through the Carolinas. We are closely monitoring weather conditions and are making preparations to respond quickly and safely if needed, said Duke Energy Carolinas storm director Jason Hollifield. While the storms path is still uncertain, we encourage our customers to plan in advance. Mosier added that a team of meteorologists is sharing "real-time forecasts that will guide our preparations and logistics. We will know more about what that looks like for the Upstate in the next 24 hours." We encourage our customers to prepare for challenging weather conditions this week. They can learn more about what to expect and prepare for before, during, and after a storm at duke-energy.com/storm. Justin Pelfrey of Anderson Fire Station 3, and Anderson Technical Rescue looks at protective suit preparing for deployment to the coast from the City of Anderson fire station 3, Monday, August 5, 2024 at the headquarters in Anderson, S.C.. What to know about flooding? Heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Debby could lead to life-threatening flash, urban, and river flooding later this week in the Upstate. Officials advise residents to avoid floodwaters that could be contaminated with harmful chemicals, sewage, and debris, which pose serious health risks. Motorists should not attempt to drive through floodwaters. "Flooding can occur in many parts of the state, not just along the coast," said Anderson Fire Department Capt. Ryan Herring. "We have entered firefighter mobilization mode. We have a plan in place and a team ready to deploy in case the weather turns bad in the Upstate." He emphasized that safety is the top priority in any situation. "Our rescuers will be equipped with either a swift water dry suit or an entry dry suit to protect them from the elements and contaminated flood water." Herring said the department has two types of boats: a motorized boat and a vessel made for traveling in deeper waters. The vessels can access neighborhoods where there may be shallow water to assist victims. "We also have a swift water raft to tow and get people out," he said. Though Tropical Storm Debby's impact on the Upstate is expected to be minimal, emergency officials advised residents to watch for trees with loose branches, secure loose items outside, and stay updated on what's happening with the storm. Terry Benjamin II covers public safety for the Greenville News. Reach him via email at tbenjamin@gannett.com. Travis Rose covers Anderson County for the Independent Mail. Reach him via email at trose@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Upstate emergency services prepare for Tropical Storm Debby Upstate first responders provide support to those impacted by Debby Firefighters leave to help those impacted by Tropical Storm Debby. (Source: Gantt District Fire Department) Firefighters leave to help those impacted by Tropical Storm Debby. (Source: Gantt District Fire Department) GREENVILLE, S.C. Several Upstate agencies are coming together to provide assistance on the coast as Tropical Storm Debby begins to impact South Carolina. As Tropical Storm Debby hits the coast, many Upstate first responders are making their way towards the storm. South Carolina Task Force 6, which is a state team is made up of multiple departments throughout the Upstate, they left, and I believe they are in Berkeley County today, Jessica Stumpf, Director of Greenville County Emergency Management said. Stumpf said on Tuesday the Greenville County Special Operations team left for Johns Island. Those that went today were part of the Gantt District Fire Department, Boiling Springs Fire District, Donaldson Center, and Taylors Rescue, Stumpf said. Were told these teams are able to provide a variety of services. Any search and rescue, if there are flooded buildings and they want to make sure there is no one in those buildings, they can provide search and rescue assistance. If there is a flooding issue where someone is trapped, swift water rescue is something they can provide. They can also assist with any calls the local fire departments may need down there, Stumpf added. Three firefighters with Parker District Fire are on Task Force 6. Fire Chief Greg Farley said they train monthly for any situation that may arise. They are ready, all it takes is a phone call to get it activated and these guys kick it into high gear, said Farley. Its a great example of the cooperation and the preplanning and preparation that the fire service entails in South Carolina and the support that we are given in the state level and local levels. Farley said the deployment is for seven days but could be extended or shortened depending on the severity of the storm. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) An annual event to raise money for a good cause kicked off in downtown Dayton. The United Rehabilitation Services 21st Annual Rubber Duck Regatta is back again to help support children and adults living with disabilities. On Sept. 21 at 4:30 p.m., a minimum of 20,000 rubber ducks will be dropped into the river at RiverScape MetroPark. Proceeds from duck adoptions directly support URSs critical programs and services, making a tangible difference in the lives of local children and adults with disabilities, said URS. Major upgrades coming to Darke County Airport How do I adopt ducks? While one duck can be adopted for just $5, six can be purchased in a Quack Pack for $25. Adopters that purchase the Quack Pack will receive a coupon for a free sub from Jersey Mikes. To adopt a duck, visit any of the following locations in the Dayton area: Buffalo Wild Wings City BBQ Jersey Mikes Subs Ducks can also be adopted online or by texting DUCK to 24365. Adoptions must be made by Sept 21 at 3:30 p.m., or while ducks last. Alice Cooper visits Alice Scooper before Huber Heights concert What are the top prizes? Once the ducks drop, adopters await to see if their duck has been awarded a prize. 2 NEWS has compiled the full list of prizes listed on the events website below: Prize Number Prize Amount Grand Prize $5,000 towards a lease or purchase of a Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler, Dodge, or Ram and $1,000 gift card OR $2,500 in cash with a $1,000 gift card Second Prize Four-night cabin stay, three-day pontoon boat usage at Norris Lake and a $500 Visa gift card Third Prize $1,000 Buffalo Wild Wings gift card Fourth Prize $1,000 Watsons gift card Fifth Prize $1,000 Brunners Lawn and Services gift card Sixth Prize Two $500 Morris Home Furniture gift cards* Seventh Prize $600 Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar gift card Eighth Prize $500 City Barbeque gift card Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. The U.S. and Australia announced new agreements on basing and building weapons together Tuesday, part of an attempt to cement the Biden administrations strategy in the region. The first initiative will increase Americas access to bases on Australias western and northern coasts. The U.S. has been spending hundreds of millions of dollars on military construction there in recent years, in part because of the areas proximity to the South China Sea, where Beijing has lately grown more aggressive. Going forward, the U.S. will now be able to work at Royal Australian Air Force Base Learmonth, on Australias western shores, and will also expand its construction work on Scherger and Curtin, two other bases on different ends of the northern coast, according to the Pentagon. All of this will mean more a maritime patrol aircraft and reconnaissance aircraft operating from bases across northern Australia, American Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said at a Tuesday press conference. The two countries will also work to build, sustain and develop weapons more closely together. Most of these will be munitions: either the guided multiple launch rocket system, or GMLRS, or the precision strike missile, known as PrSM. By December, the two countries will finish plans to assemble the first munition and produce and sustain the second together. To coordinate the work, the U.S. will open a new joint programs office in Huntsville, Alabama, next year. Australia unveils record $37 billion defense budget The two efforts were unveiled following an annual meeting of the countries top defense and diplomatic officials at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. All of this work is riding the coattails of AUKUS, an agreement inked three years ago between the U.S., U.K. and Australia to share nuclear-powered submarines and develop high-tech weapons. That pact has helped loosen each countrys regulations on sharing such technology, particularly tight American restrictions that have long frustrated U.S. allies. American defense officials described the Australia meeting as the final leg in a race to make their work in Asia more enduring. Austin traveled last week to Japan and the Philippines, where he held similar meetings with his counterparts there. The Annapolis summit would be the end of what a senior U.S. defense official labeled, with a flourish, the 10 most consequential days for U.S. defense ties in the region since the start of the administration. The Biden administration has done a lot to deepen and expand its alliances, said Eric Sayers, who studies the region at the American Enterprise Institute. The work now is less on building and more on implementing. Australia fast-tracks its hunt for replacement frigates In the shadow of these meetings, of course, is how long either country has to implement the plans. Americas election in November could make Washingtons foreign policy more transactional if Donald Trump returns to the White House. And Australias own elections next September could end in a hung parliament, perhaps empowering parties that are more skeptical of the alliance with America, said Rory Medcalf, an Australian defense analyst. That said, Washington and Canberra have long been close, despite political change. While Pentagon officials have a nickname for each of their partners in the region, its telling that Austin calls U.S.-Australia ties the unbreakable alliance. And the motivating force behind their recent cooperation a more aggressive and powerful China isnt likely to change anytime soon. I believe theres a clear direction of travel for the Australian-American relationship, said Charles Edel, the Australia chair at CSIS. The question increasingly is the speed of delivery. By Andrew Goudsward and Luc Cohen WASHINGTON (Reuters) -A Pakistani man with alleged ties to Iran has been charged in the United States in connection with a foiled plot to assassinate a U.S. politician or government officials, the Justice Department said on Tuesday. Asif Merchant, 46, sought to recruit people in the United States to carry out the plot in retaliation for the U.S. killing of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' top commander Qassem Soleimani in 2020, according to a criminal complaint. Former President Donald Trump, who as president approved the drone strike on Soleimani, was discussed as a potential target of the plot, but the scheme was not conceived of as a plot to assassinate the former president, according to a person familiar with the matter. Merchant, who prosecutors allege spent time in Iran before traveling to the United States from Pakistan, was charged with murder for hire in federal court in New York's Brooklyn borough. A federal judge ordered him detained on July 17, according to court records. For years, the Justice Department has been working aggressively to counter Irans brazen and unrelenting efforts to retaliate against American public officials for the killing of Iranian General Soleimani," Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement. Court documents do not name the alleged targets of the plot. Merchant told a law enforcement informant that there would be "security all around" one target, according to the criminal complaint. A Justice Department spokesperson declined to comment further. Avraham Moskowitz, a lawyer for Merchant, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. We have not received any reports on this matter from the U.S. Government. However, it is evident that the modus operandi in question contradicts the Iranian Governments policy of legally prosecuting the murderer of General Soleimani," the Iranian mission to the United Nations in New York said in a statement to Reuters. Trump, the Republican candidate in the Nov. 5 presidential election, was wounded in an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania last month. Garland said on Tuesday that investigators have found no evidence that Merchant had any connection to the shooting, which officials have said was carried out by a lone 20-year-old gunman. Trump's presidential campaign could not immediately be reached for comment. Law enforcement thwarted Merchant's plan before any attack was carried out. An individual Merchant contacted in April to help assist with the plot reported his activities to law enforcement and became a confidential informant, according to the complaint. Merchant told the informant his plans also included stealing documents from one target and organizing protests in the United States, prosecutors allege. (Reporting by Kanishka Singh, Costas Pitas, Andrew Goudsward and Luc Cohen. Additional reporting by Michelle Nichols and Alexandra Ulmer; Editing by Jonathan Oatis) US has communicated need to not escalate conflict to Iran and Israel, says Blinken By Idrees Ali, Simon Lewis and Phil Stewart ANNAPOLIS, Maryland (Reuters) -The United States has communicated to Iran and Israel that conflict in the Middle East must not escalate, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday, even as the Pentagon warned that it would not tolerate attacks against its forces in the region. The Middle East is bracing for a possible new wave of attacks by Iran and its allies following last week's killing of senior members of militant groups Hamas and Hezbollah. Five U.S. troops and two contractors were injured in an attack on a base in Iraq on Monday, which U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin blamed on Iran-backed groups. Officials had been in constant contact with allies and partners in the region and there was a "clear consensus" that no one should escalate the situation, the top U.S. diplomat said. "We've been engaged in intense diplomacy with allies and partners, communicating that message directly to Iran. We've communicated that message directly to Israel," Blinken said. The United States will continue to defend Israel against attacks, Blinken said, but noted that everyone in the region should understand the risks of escalation and miscalculation. "Further attacks only raise the risk of dangerous outcomes that no one can predict and no one can fully control." The Pentagon has said it will deploy additional fighter jets and Navy warships to the Middle East as Washington seeks to bolster defenses in the region. "What I've been focused on is making sure that we're doing everything we can to put measures in place to protect our troops and also make sure that we're in a good position to aid in the in the defense of Israel, if called upon to do that," Austin said. Blinken, following a meeting involving Austin and their Australian counterparts, also said talks to achieve a ceasefire and hostage deal on the war in Gaza had reached their final stage and should end very soon. WILL NOT TOLERATE ATTACK ON TROOPS Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, was assassinated in the Iranian capital of Tehran last week. The attack drew threats of revenge by Iran on Israel, which has not claimed responsibility. Coupled with the killing of the senior military commander of the Lebanese group Hezbollah, Fuad Shukr, by Israel in a strike on Beirut last week, concern has intensified that the conflict in Gaza is turning into a wider Middle East war. Iran has said the U.S. bears responsibility in the assassination of Haniyeh because of its support for Israel. On Monday, a rocket attack on al Asad airbase in western Iraq injured seven U.S. personnel. Austin said the United States "will not tolerate" attacks on its personnel. Asked if he knew who was behind the attack, Austin added the U.S. was sure it was an Iran-backed militia, but had not determined which one. "We're still investigating to determine that," he said. Iraq's military condemned on Tuesday what it called "reckless" actions against bases on its soil and said it had captured a truck with a rocket launcher. A small truck was seized with a rocket launcher fixed on the back. Eight unfired rockets were dismantled, the statement said. A rare ally of both the U.S. and Iran, Iraq hosts 2,500 U.S. troops and has Iran-backed militias linked to its security forces. It has witnessed escalating tit-for-tat attacks since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in October. (Reporting by Idrees Ali, Eric Beech, Simon Lewis and Phil Stewart; Editing by Leslie Adler and Richard Chang) (Bloomberg) -- Kosovos government came under criticism from international allies for closing nine Serbian Post offices in predominantly ethnic Serb northern municipalities, with the US saying its deeply disappointed in the move. Most Read from Bloomberg Serbia says it distributes millions of euros to Serbian residents in Kosovo, mostly for pensions and welfare. The postal service plays a key role in handing out that aid, but does so in dinars, which falls foul of a central bank decision banning the use of the Serbian currency for all payments in Kosovo. That move, and a subsequent series of raids against Serb banks in northern Kosovo, prompted Kosovos allies to urge the country to leave Serb institutions in the northern municipalities alone. The latest move drew sharp criticism from both the US and European Union. Kosovos uncoordinated actions put Kosovan citizens and KFOR soldiers at greater risk, unnecessarily escalate regional tensions, and undermine Kosovos reputation as a reliable international partner, the US Embassy in Pristina said, referring to the NATO-led international peacekeeping force in the country. The EU said that the actions of Prime Minister Albin Kurtis government werent coordinated with international partners and cannot offer solutions for this and other issues related to the normalization process between Kosovo and Serbia. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said his country wants to maintain peace, though criticized Kurti for the decision on the post offices. Kosovar police said they closed the offices on Monday because they lacked licenses and werent registered with the Kosovo Business Registration Agency. Deputy Prime Minister Besnik Bislimi said that the authorities had upheld the rule of law and constitutional order by closing the branches. Parallel structures and illegal activity have no place in Kosovo and that this should be strongly supported by our international partners and allies, he said. --With assistance from Misha Savic. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. US imposes sanctions on Paraguayan cigarette producer for allegedly enriching the former president FILE - Former President Horacio Cartes covers himself with a flag of the ruling, Colorado party after the polls closed during the general election in Asuncion, Paraguay, April 30, 2023. The Biden administration on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, slapped sanctions on a Paraguayan tobacco company for financing Cartes, a cigarette tycoon whom the White House sanctioned in 2023 for corruption. (AP Photo/Jorge Saenz, File) ASUNCION, Paraguay (AP) The Biden administration on Tuesday imposed sanctions on a Paraguayan tobacco company for allegedly enriching the country's controversial former president, a cigarette tycoon sanctioned last year by the White House for corruption. The U.S. Treasury Department said it was targeting cigarette producer Tabacalera del Este over its links to Horacio Cartes, one of the Paraguays richest men who served as president from 2013 to 2018 and still wields significant political power in the country. Paraguay's current president, Santiago Pena, is a political protege of Cartes who also hails from the dominant conservative Colorado party. Citing a concerted pattern of corruption," the Treasury Department last year sanctioned Cartes over accusations that he had paid millions of dollars in bribes to lawmakers to pave his way to power and that he had cultivated ties to Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group, which is believed to operate in the porous Triple Frontier where Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay meet. At the time, the Treasury also designated four companies controlled by Cartes that spanned the Paraguayan economy's main sectors, including cattle ranching, tobacco and consumer goods. Cartes has dismissed the corruption allegations as politically motivated. There was no immediate response from the Tabacalera del Este tobacco company. The phone numbers on the company website were disconnected. Cartes says he no longer owns nor is actively involved in the management of Tabacalera del Este, a company that has roused competitors' suspicions that smuggling was occurring given its massive volume of cigarette sales. Nonetheless, the Treasury Department on Tuesday accused Tabacalera del Este of funneling millions of dollars to Cartes pursuant to a sales agreement. The department's Office of Foreign Assets Control last year identified Cartes as owning a 50% or greater interest in the company, directly or indirectly. The United States remains dedicated to ensuring accountability for Cartes and to promoting meaningful anti-corruption reform in Paraguay, said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller. Cartes currently faces no criminal charges in Paraguay and was elected last year as president of the Colorado party, which controls the majority of seats in both houses of Congress. Controversy and U.S. law enforcement inquiries have followed the politician throughout his career as the country's leading businessman. Currency fraud allegations sent him to jail for a few months early in 1986. All charges were later dropped. Last year Paraguays attorney general launched a criminal investigation into the U.S. Treasury's corruption allegations about Cortes, but there have been no results. The State Department has said deep-rooted corruption in Paraguay often prevents convictions in money-laundering and terrorism financing cases. Although last month Moodys ratings agency lifted Paraguay to investment-grade status, citing the nation's strong economic growth, analysts and investors have expressed concerns about endemic organized crime fueled by cigarette and drug smuggling. About a dozen F/A-18 fighter jets from the Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier have flown to a military base in the Middle East, as part of the Pentagons effort to help defend Israel from possible attacks by Iran and its proxies and to safeguard U.S. troops, according to a U.S. official. The F/A-18s and a E-2D Hawkeye surveillance aircraft took off from the carrier in the Gulf of Oman and arrived at the undisclosed base on Monday, said the official. 5 US troops, 2 contractors injured in rocket attack at Iraq base U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered the increased military presence in the region as officials worry about escalating violence in the Middle East in the wake of the killings last week of a senior Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and Hamas top political leader in Iran, in suspected Israeli strikes. Both groups are backed by Iran. The Navy jets land-based deployment is expected to be temporary, because a squadron of Air Force F-22 fighter jets is en route to the same base from their home station in Alaska. The roughly dozen F-22s are expected to arrive in the Middle East in the coming days, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss troop movements. Its not clear how long all of the aircraft will remain together at the base, and that may depend on what if anything happens in the next few days. US to boost military presence in Middle East amid growing tensions The troop movements come as U.S. officials released more details about the rocket attack that hit a military base in Iraq on Monday, injuring American personnel. Officials said five U.S. service members and two contractors were hurt when two rockets hit the base. The officials said five of those injured were being treated at the al-Asad air base and two were evacuated, but all seven are in stable condition. They did not provide details on who was evacuated. The rocket attack is the latest in what has been an uptick in strikes on U.S. forces by Iranian-backed militias. It comes as tensions across the Middle East are spiking but is not believed to be connected to the Hezbollah and Hamas killings. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military operations. In recent weeks, Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have resumed launching attacks on bases housing U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria after a lull of several months, following a strike on a base in Jordan in late January that killed three American soldiers and prompted a series of retaliatory U.S. strikes. Between October and January, an umbrella group calling itself the Islamic Resistance in Iraq had regularly claimed attacks that it said were in retaliation for Washingtons support of Israel in its war against Hamas in Gaza and were aimed at pushing U.S. troops out of the region. Several U.S. personnel were injured in a suspected rocket attack Monday against Al-Asad Airbase in Iraq, which houses American and coalition troops, a U.S. defense official said. The attack comes as Israel and the U.S. are shifting forces in the region while awaiting an expected Iranian attack on Israel, which U.S. officials have said could also target American bases and assets in the region. We can confirm that there was a suspected rocket attack today against U.S. and Coalition forces at Al-Asad Airbase, Iraq, the official said. Initial indications are that several U.S. personnel were injured. An assessment of the damage was being conducted. Al-Asad has come under attack multiple times from Iranian-backed militias over the past year. From October to January, American and coalition troops endured more than 150 attacks, culminating in a January strike on a U.S. outpost in Jordan that killed three U.S. troops. In response, the U.S. launched a large counterstrike that hit 85 targets across Iraq and Syria. The region has been on edge the past week in the wake of the assassinations of top Hezbollah and Hamas leaders in Beirut and Tehran, respectively. Israel has claimed credit for the former but has not commented publicly on the latter. To prepare for an expected Iranian response to the assassinations, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered the USS Abraham Lincoln, which is currently operating in the Pacific, and its destroyer escorts to the region, along with an additional squadron of fighter planes. The Lincoln will replace the Roosevelt carrier strike group already in the region. A new American air wing and more air defenses have also been sent to the region. Those assets will fall in on a monthslong mission in the Red Sea, where several U.S. destroyers have been on station since December shooting down drones and missiles launched by the Iranian-backed Houthi militant group in Yemen. The concern is that Iranian proxies Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen and militant groups in Iraq and Syria could hit Israel and U.S. forces from multiple directions simultaneously, stretching defensive systems and potentially plunging the region into a wider conflict. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) Just as quietly as it appeared, Utahs new Dunkin Donuts location opened its doors to start serving the community donuts, coffee, and more. The new Dunkin Donuts, located at 1410 West and 9000 South in West Jordan in the parking lot of the new H Mart, officially opened on Saturday, Aug. 3. A spokesperson for the restaurant said the new location will offer Utahns a Next Gen Dunkin Donuts experience. Dunkin fans will reportedly get a first-hand look at the future experience with a modern design, a new interior color palate, and an atmospheric lobby. The store will offer everything theyve come to love from Dunkin Donuts, including the Next Gen exclusive of nitro-infused cold brew. Simone Biles and Team USA members set for September Utah performance The opening of Dunkins West Jordan restaurant marks the second location in Utah and offers an exciting new way to keep our fans running faster than ever before, said Shannon Durkin, West Dunkin field marketing manager. With a second restaurant, we look forward to serving Dunkins iconic coffee, donuts, and diverse menu to both our loyal returning and new guests. The West Jordan Dunkin will be open seven days a week from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. A grand opening event will be held on Saturday, Aug. 24. The new Dunkin Donuts will be the first publicly available location since 2020. Utah used to be home to several Dunkin Donuts locations across the Great Salt Lake valley, however, they all abruptly closed in July 2020. In the years since a location on Hill Air Force Base has remained Utahs only Dunkin Donuts. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. It hasnt been the easiest of starts for the new Prisons and Probation Minister, James now Lord Timpson. Appointing the businessman who ran his familys chain of key-cutting high-street stores was one of the very first announcements Sir Keir Starmer made on entering Downing Street. It was intended as a clear signal that the Government wanted to adopt a more reform-minded, rehabilitation-orientated approach to prisons than its predecessor. Lord Timpson is widely known for training and employing ex-prisoners in his shops. He also chaired the Prison Reform Trust, and earlier this year he said publicly that too many people are being sent to prison unnecessarily. Yet his first fortnight in Whitehall has turned out to be very different from what was anticipated. His boss, the Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, has sanctioned the early release of 5,500 prisoners in September and October not to demonstrate a greater emphasis on rehabilitation but instead to relieve chronic overcrowding in prisons. This week, Mahmood was forced to activate Operation Early Dawn, an emergency measure to cope with the hundreds of prosecutions made following the recent unrest, as no prison space is available to house them. Defendants will be kept in police cells, or remain on bail, until capacity is found. There was real fear of rioting among the almost 90,000 current inmates crammed into prisons that simply have no more space to pack in anyone else. Official projections show that this number could rise to over 105,000 by 2027. By the prison departments own benchmark for safe capacity, there are already more than 7,600 extra people inside than there should be despite a previous scheme, brought in by the Conservative government in October 2023, which saw 10,000 prisoners released early. In June of this year HMP Leeds had 72 per cent more people being held there than its safe limit, with Durham, Bedford, Wandsworth, Preston and Doncaster at 50 per cent over capacity. And, as Robert Rinder, a former criminal barrister, demonstrated in his recent Channel 4 series, Britain Behind Bars: A Secret History, there are plenty of precedents pointing to the fact that, when prisons get to operational breaking point, those in the cells run amok. But how likely is it that the early-release scheme will work to relieve pressure and could it cause more challenges than it solves? Understaffing, overcrowding and poor quick fixes Many of the thousands released will go into the care of a probation service that is severely understaffed. The most recent report by His Majestys Inspectorate of Probation published in September last year showed probation officer vacancy rates ranging from 20 per cent in the West Midlands to 35 per cent in Greater London. Not only is probation short of people, it already lacks sufficient approved premises, probation hostels where those released can be closely supervised by trained professionals during those first three months when all the evidence suggests they are most likely to reoffend. The huge new influx will mean that the standard stay in approved premises is being cut from a maximum of 12 weeks to eight. Similarly, early release will mean that the preparations usually made in prison for those approaching the end of their sentence will not happen. Former prisoner David Shipley was in Londons Wandsworth jail for most of 2020. It is meant to hold about 950 prisoners but had roughly 1,600. There werent enough places in the employment and education [schemes] designed to prepare prisoners [for the outside world], says Shipley. Instead, he says, prisoners spent hours lying in their bunks, getting more depressed and resorting to drugs, alcohol and self harm. That problem appears widespread throughout the prison system. A sort of post-Covid torpor seems to have infected many prisons, with workshops and classrooms empty, and prisoners whiling away their time watching daytime TV and sleeping, is how the chief inspector of prisons, Charlie Taylor, described the state of affairs behind bars in June 2022. Hardly encouragement to change lives, even if they are willing. Problems in the overstretched probation service When the previous government ran an early-release programme in 2023 and 2024 again designed to prevent overcrowding it resulted in a marked spike in those quickly returning to custody. In the last three months of 2023 alone, 7,000 recently-released prisoners did something that caused their probation officer to send them back behind bars. That is up 17 per cent on the same period in the year before, and indicates that the places the Justice Secretary is freeing up this time could well be quickly filled by those who just vacated them. Probation is overstretched, agrees former prison governor John Podmore, now honorary professor of applied social sciences at the University of Durham, and that increases the pressure on probation officers, a disproportionate number of whom are new to the job and inexperienced, to return those on parole for minor infractions on the terms of their early release. Too much focus, he feels, is being placed at the moment on numbers going into prison, and there is not enough focus on those going out, and how they are being prepared for release and supervised once out. Short-term fixes to solve prison overcrowding, Podmore argues after 25 years in the prison service running Belmarsh, Brixton and Swaleside jails, have a poor success record. But whats the alternative for the new Government and when did the problem first become a crisis (and it is a crisis) that no government has yet been able to crack? The start of the overcrowding crisis A decade ago prisons in England and Wales had 8,175 spare operational places. By 2019, this had fallen to just 2,012, prompting Boris Johnson to announce plans to create six new prisons at a cost of 4 billion as part of his drive to get tough on crime. While that 4 billion sum has subsequently risen, the promise to have the new prisons open by the mid-2020s has receded. The courts, however, have been busy handing out longer sentences to those who commit violent or sexual offences. In 2009, these accounted for 39 per cent of prisoners. Now that figure is 52 per cent. Two of the new prisons HMP Five Wells in Northamptonshire and HMP Fosse Way in Leicestershire are run by private contractors rather than the HM Prison and Probation Service. At a joint cost of 539 million, these super prisons provide 3,600 places. Yet all has not gone smoothly. In June, Five Wells saw its third change of governor in just two years, while prison inspectors have reported that two thirds of its staff had left over the same period. And that bigger goal of easing overcrowding has been missed. By September of 2023, three months after Fosse Way had opened, spare capacity in the prison system was down to just 768 places. Struggles to recruit and retain guards The problems at HMP Five Wells highlight how hard it is to recruit and retain prison officers. At one point during the Cameron years, the prison workforce fell by 27 per cent. Readjustments were later made but numbers of officers are still down 900 on 2010 levels, even though numbers of prisoners have risen. Experienced prison officers are hard to hold on to. Half the workforce has been there for fewer than four years. Just one third have a decade under their belt, compared with 55 per cent in 2010. Both prison and probation branches of the criminal justice system have tried new approaches to solve this. Unlocked Graduates, a Teach First-style two-year programme for university graduates to become prison officers, has in the past eight years provided more than 900 new officers on the front line in England and Waless jails, three-quarters of whom stay on after their initial contract ends. The Probation Service, too, has stepped out of its comfort zone by starting to employ ex-prisoners. Yet Podmore worries that the recruitment problem remains. The issue, he argues, is training. While 32,000-38,000 is not too bad as an entry-level wage for a prison officer who is not required to have any qualifications, he says, the training that is then provided to them by the Prison Service (as opposed to Unlocked Graduates more specialist programme) leaves them ill-equipped to face the reality of the work. The length and quality of the training has been so cut back. There is no front-line, real-life training, says Podmore. They do it all in the classroom now, in mock cells. The result is that recruits arent properly prepared to deal with ever more challenging prisoners Thats why they leave quickly. This gets to the heart of the matter. You need more staff and more facilities in prison if you are to balance the often competing claims of punishment, security and rehabilitation and if you are to avoid the fate of the 50-plus per cent of released prisoners who at the moment end up back in prison within 12 months, a figure that rises to 70 per cent in the womens estate. A spiral of drugs, violence and poor education One successful example of things going right in the prison system are the training academies that Lord Timpsons firm runs on a number of prison sites, so that prisoners can boost their skills while serving their sentence and have the promise of a job when they get out. All statistics about reoffending show that having a job to go to when released as well as a place to live and a supportive family or friends make a big difference. And yet at the first sign of a staff shortage, education is always the very first thing to be cancelled, the teachers employed to deliver qualifications complain. In the prison system, they remain on the bottom rung of the hierarchy, despite efforts in recent years to boost educations standing, including a landmark 2016 report on reforming prison education by a commission led by the super-head Dame Sally Coates that included Lord Timpson among its contributors. Coatess report was publicly endorsed by then justice secretary Michael Gove without hesitation, yet it has not been implemented in any meaningful way in the eight years since, as the parliamentary select committee on education noted in a 2022 follow-up. Only a handful of education departments in prisons were judged by Ofsted inspectors to be outstanding, and too many were found inadequate. A new tendering round for contracts to provide education within prisons is currently under way, but with no more money on the table it has so far failed to attract any new suppliers. One major private provider to the criminal justice system also pulled out last autumn because there were not sufficient profits to be made. If you build another wing but you dont build space for education or work, Charlie Taylor warned recently, then that fuels the demand for drugs and we see prisons getting trapped into a cycle of rising drugs, violence and staff leaving because they just dont feel safe. The focus in prisons is rightly, he added on safety and security, but that comes to the detriment of purposeful activity. And by doing so they miss a trick because you can focus on reducing the supply [of drugs] into prisons until youre blue in the face unless you reduce the demand for drugs. Learning from the Scandi prison model Other prison systems around Europe, notably in Scandinavia and the Netherlands, have achieved impressive results by taking just such an approach. In Sweden, they achieved the triple whammy of falling numbers of prisoners, falling levels of crime and prison closures. By contrast the average cost of a prisoner for a year in England and Wales has risen to around 50,000. The official who was in charge of the success story in Sweden, Nils Oberg, subsequently applied to head the English and Welsh Prison and Probation Service, but an internal candidate was preferred. Any real appetite for change appears to be hard to discern. Instead, initiatives around education and employment are dwarfed by expensive schemes to crack down on drugs being brought into prisons including by prison officers in the pay of criminal gangs. All have failed to adequately halt the problem. In a 2023 Longford Lecture, former prisons minister Rory Stewart argued that prisons are the public service that concerns voters least of all. Compared with hospitals or schools, most people dont think they will ever go to prison, or even set foot inside one on a visit, so they have little interest in their taxes being spent on them. And without new money, overcrowding looks unlikely to be an issue easily solved. The best solution: an ex-prisoners proposal Former prisoner David Shipley has one suggestion that wouldnt break the bank. He began his degree-level studies when he was transferred to complete his sentence at Hollesley Bay Open Prison in Suffolk. He is now working on a PhD. He suggests greater investment in reproducing the effective rehabilitative regimes found in such open prisons. At the moment only 4,500 prisoners are in open conditions, which are much cheaper to run at around 15,000 less per year per place because there is less of a security-obsessed culture, he says. But there is a long waiting list to go there. Their capacity could be easily and cheaply expanded, he argues, since most are on large sites, in the countryside, with space to add more low-rise freestanding buildings. They could house the potentially 25,000 people convicted of non-violent crimes currently held in higher security prisons who just arent going to try to abscond, and free up capacity higher up the system. As for Lord Timpson, the best way forward is to focus his strategy on the long term, rather than the short. It may not bring results in the five-year cycle of general elections, but as a non-politician among politicians, and a businessman first and foremost he can take that approach whereas career politicians before him may have struggled. There are some other issues he may want to address that cross government department boundaries too. Department for Education figures published last month showed that almost 9,400 youngsters had been permanently excluded from our schools in 2022/2023, up 44 per cent on the previous year. Those excluded make up just 0.11 per cent of the school population, but as they go forward in life they constitute a whopping 42 per cent of adult prisoners, according to official figures. Likewise, those taken into care as children represent two per cent of the general population, but they are 31 per cent of women and 24 per cent of men in prison. Children in care in particular are so much at risk, reflects Coates, almost a decade on from the publication of her report. Anyone wanting to address the crisis in prisons needs to ask hard questions about why so many are ending up in prison, and what you can do to invest better the money we are now spending on keeping them in prison in early intervention to improve outcomes for care leavers so they dont end up in prison. There is no shortage of other suggestions for bringing down a prison population that is the highest per capita in western Europe. What seems clear is that until the chronic overcrowding that afflicts our jails is effectively tackled from the root cause, upwards, the new Prisons Minister is going to struggle to make a sustained impact no matter how many new cells are built, or how many prisoners are released early. Peter Stanford is director of the Longford Trust, a charity that offers support to serving and ex-prisoners to continue their rehabilitation by going to university Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The News Venezuelas attorney general an ally of President Nicolas Maduro opened a criminal investigation into Maria Corina Machado and Edmundo Gonzalez, two of the nations opposition leaders, on allegations including incitement to insurrection. Tarek William Saab said they falsely announced a winner of the presidential election other than the one proclaimed by the National Electoral Council, the only body qualified to do so, adding that they incited police and military officials to disobey the laws. Venezuelans have been protesting en masse following last months election, calling for Maduro to step aside over the disputed election results: The NEC did not publicize the vote tallies and many believe Maduro lost the vote. Multiple countries including France, Germany, and Italy have urged Venezuela to release the voting records. Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado (L) hugs Venezuelan presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia at a rally in Caracas, Venezuela, on Tuesday. On Monday, the attorney general announced they were under investigation over asking the military and police to join them and end their repression of civil society. Photo by Ronald Pena R/EPA-EFE Aug. 5 (UPI) -- Venezuela's attorney general announced Monday that he's investigating opposition presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado after they called on the military and police to end their support for the country's authoritarian leader and repression of public dissent. The country's attorney general, Tarek William Saab, announced the investigation against the opposition leaders in a statement, citing their dissemination of a communique hours earlier. Saab said that in the communique the opposition leaders "falsely announce a winner of the presidential elections different from the one proclaimed by the National Electoral Council" and openly incite "police and military officials to disobey the laws." Usurpation of functions, dissemination of false information to cause distress, instigation to disobedience of laws, instigation to insurrection and conspiracy are among the crimes Saab accuses Gonzalez and Machado of committing. The one-page letter Gonzalez and Machado published to their social media accounts a few hours earlier states they seek to appeal to "the conscience of military and police officers to stand by the people and their own families." "Faced with this massive violation of human rights, aligning with Maduro and his interests means betraying yourselves," they said. "Venezuelans are not enemies of the [National Bolivarian Armed Forces of Venezuela]. With this disposition, we call for actions of organized groups by the Maduro clique, a combination of military and police squadrons and armed groups outside the State, who beat, torture, and also murder, under the protection of the malignant power they represent, to stop and immediately cease these actions." Gonzalez and Machado have been leading a civic movement against Maduro following last month's presidential election that they say Gonzalez won. The election was held July 28, and the country's election commission announced that Maduro had been elected to a third term in office. However, it has not provided proof of Maduro's victory, which has also been widely disputed by Western nations, including the United States, and nonprofit organizations, such as The Carter Center. The opposition leaders state Gonzalez won the presidency with 67% of the vote while citing detailed voting tallies they have obtained. The movement has been met by Maduro's security forces, and the pair earlier Monday called on the police and military to "not repress the people, accompany them." The Caracas-based human rights organization Foro Penal said Monday at least 1,010 people have been arrested and 11 killed due to political repression since the election. The Venezuela-based human rights organization Provea said Monday that 20 people have been killed. The United States last week formally recognized Gonzalez as the winner of the election. Other Democratic nations, such as Canada and the European Union, have not gone quite so far, but have rejected Maduro's claim of victory. The countries are also mounting pressure on Maduro to release the electoral data that shows. "We call on Venezuelan authorities to release promptly all the tally sheets in order to guarantee the full transparency and integrity of the electoral process," a joint statement Saturday from France, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, Poland and Portugal said. "The opposition indicates that they have collected and published over 80% of the tally sheets that were produced at each voting table. This verification is essential for recognizing the will of the Venezuelan people." Maduro has led the country since Hugo Chavez died in 2013, which occurred right before the country was hit with an economic crisis that has led to more than 7 million people to flee the country. His re-election in 2018 was also met with domestic and international condemnation for being illegitimate, with the United States under the previous Trump administration leading a failed attempt to oust him from the country's helm. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro holds a small copy of the constitution at a press conference in the Miraflores presidential palace three days after his controversial re-election. Jeampier Arguinzones/dpa Venezuela's electoral authority says it has presented official election results to the Supreme Tribunal of Justice, days after it said President Nicolas Maduro had secured a third term in a hotly contested vote overshadowed by fraud allegations. The court, which is seen as loyal to Maduro's authoritarian government, said late on Monday that it received the detailed election reports from the National Electoral Council (CNE). It had previously given the CNE three days from Friday to hand over the documents, which reportedly include full results from individual voting districts and evidence of a cyberattack on the CNE, which the body's president Elvis Amoroso called a "terrorist" incident that delayed the transmission of official data. The CNE has faced allegations of massive electoral fraud since it declared Maduro the winner of the presidential election on July 28. The body has refused to publish official results and its website has been down since the vote. The opposition is accusing the government of electoral fraud and is claiming victory for its candidate Edmundo Gonzalez. The United States and several Latin American countries have recognized Gonzalez as the winner. The European Union said it would not recognize Maduro's victory without the full disclosure of the official voting record. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro speaks at a press conference in the Miraflores presidential palace three days after his controversial re-election. Jeampier Arguinzones/dpa The Venezuelan military and police forces on Tuesday reaffirmed their loyalty to the regime of President Nicolas Maduro, as the electoral authority in the capital Caracas said it had presented official election results to the country's top court after days of delays. Crisis-hit Venezuela has been rocked by renewed instability in recent weeks after Maduro was declared the winner of heavily contested presidential elections on July 28. In the latest developments from Caracas, a joint statement from the Defence Ministry and Interior Ministry said the country's security forces have again reaffirmed their "absolute loyalty to the citizen Nicolas Maduro." The statement came in response to an open letter by opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez which called on soldiers and police officers to take the side of the people and stop following the instructions of the incumbent government. "We urge you to prevent the regime from unleashing its rampage against the people and to respect, and ensure that others respect, the results of the July 28 elections," they said. Machado and Gonzalez also said that authoritarian incumbent President Nicolas Maduro "carried out a coup d'etat that contradicts the constitutional order and wants to make you his accomplices." Venezuela's public prosecutors subsequently opened an investigation into the pair, accusing them of forming a criminal organization, conspiracy, usurpation of office and incitement to insurrection. According to non-governmental organization Foro Penal, at least 11 people died and hundreds were detained in demonstrations since the election. The opposition has repeatedly accused the government of electoral fraud, with the US and half a dozen Latin American countries recognizing Gonzalez as the winner. Electoral authority delivers official results In further news, Venezuela's electoral authority has presented official election results to the Supreme Tribunal of Justice, the country's top court. The court, which is seen as loyal to Maduro's authoritarian government, said late on Monday that it had received the detailed election reports from the National Electoral Council (CNE). It had previously given the CNE three days from Friday to hand over the documents, which reportedly include full results from individual voting districts and evidence of a cyberattack on the CNE, which the body's president Elvis Amoroso called a "terrorist" incident that delayed the transmission of official data. The CNE has drawn heavy criticism since the election after refusing to publish official election results. Its website has also been down since the vote. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro speaks at a press conference in the Miraflores presidential palace three days after his controversial re-election. Jeampier Arguinzones/dpa The Venezuelan military and police forces on Tuesday reaffirmed their loyalty to the regime of President Nicolas Maduro, days after the country's electoral authority awarded him victory in a hotly contested vote marred by fraud allegations. A joint statement from the Defence Ministry and Interior Ministry said the country's security forces have again reaffirmed their "absolute loyalty to the citizen Nicolas Maduro." The statement came in response to an open letter by opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez which called on soldiers and police officers to take the side of the people and stop following the instructions of the incumbent government. Venezuela's public prosecutors subsequently opened an investigation into the pair, accusing them of forming a criminal organization, conspiracy, usurpation of office and incitement to insurrection. The opposition has repeatedly accused the government of electoral fraud, with the US and half a dozen Latin American countries recognizing Gonzalez as the winner. The European Union said it would not recognize the result of the presidential election in Venezuela without the full disclosure of the official voting record. Versailles man sentenced after concealing birth, death of infant Editors note: This article has been updated to correct Holtzclaws sentence length. We regret the error. VERSAILLES, Ky. (FOX 56) A Woodford County man was sentenced on Monday after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including an unlawful transaction with a minor, concealing the birth of an infant, and abuse of a corpse. Read more of the latest Lexington & central Kentucky news Scott County deputies arrested Damian Holtzclaw, from Versailles, on May 16, 2023. Court records show Holtzclaw was sentenced to 16 years in prison. He was sentenced on the following charges: Abuse of corpse Tampering with physical evidence Procure or promote use of minor by electronic means Second-degree unlawful transaction with a minor Concealing birth of infant Tampering with physical evidence LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: An indictment shows that on or around Dec. 6, 2022, Holtzclaw concealed the birth of an infant and whether the child was born dead or alive. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. Tuesday: Debby will slowly crawl eastward across North Florida and South Georgia. Alabama will be on the northwest side of the system, and that will bring us drier air. We will be mostly sunny, hot, and drier. High temperatures will be in the mid to upper 90s. Enough humidity will still remain to bring the heat index up between 100 and 105. Rest of the Week: Debby will continue to crawl across the coast of South Carolina on Wednesday and Thursday spreading torrential flooding rains totaling 15-20+ to parts of Georgia and the Carolinas. We will continue to be on the dry side of the system across Central Alabama. A cold front will move into Alabama by Friday, but with no moisture to work with we dont expect any rain with it. It will also bring us some slightly cooler morning temperatures, but highs remain in the low 90s through at least early next week. Wednesday through Friday will be mostly sunny, hot, and less humid. Highs will be in the upper 90s on Wednesday, and then the middle 90s Thursday and Friday. The heat index will only be around 100. Weekend Outlook: The cold front will move across Alabama this weekend, and it will be dry thanks to the subsidence (sinking air) from the backside of Debby. Saturday and Sunday will be mostly sunny and hot with low humidity levels for this time of year. High temperatures will be a tad cooler in the lower 90s. We could have some cooler mornings with lows in the upper 60s. Be sure to follow the CBS 42 Storm Team: Follow Us on Facebook: Chief Meteorologist Dave Nussbaum, Meteorologist Michael Haynes, Meteorologist Alex Puckett, and Meteorologist Jacob Woods. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. Veterans are being deported, this Fresno mural is dedicated to them Veterans are being deported, this Fresno mural is dedicated to them FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) A mural painted in Fresno will be going 360 miles south across the border to honor American veterans who were deported to Mexico following their service to the United States. The project is called the Deported Veterans Diaspora Mural Project. It was started by Project Director Lizbeth De La Cruz Santana after she traveled to the border in 2016. Santana says while she was a researcher for the Humanizing Deportation Project at UC Davis. As a graduate student she came across a mural of an American flag turned upside down but it was on the Mexican side of the border. Then I was informed, those are deported veterans, Santana said. That mural specifically allowed me to start asking questions and then I met them. Santana says the guys started sharing stories with her and the more she interacted with them the more it was clear that though they were not American citizens, they identified far more as American than Mexican. I would wear my Nike Cortez out there and one of the guys there named Alex Gomez was like, where are you from, and I said, Compton, and hes like, no way Im from there too, Santana said. So you become a reference to that past they have of their childhood, some adult years, and eventually deportation. Santana says having a connection to the deported veterans was special to her and inspired her to do something for their community, to tell the stories of lives that were taken from them and give them back following the death of Gomez. A photographer at heart, Santana developed a way to create murals by projecting digital images onto canvas and then drawing and painting on the canvases. The images include paintings of some of the undocumented veterans who are fighting for citizenship, as well as those who lived their whole lives without winning that fight. Veterans like Fernando Orozco, who was enlisted from 1975 to 1979 and was deported after serving in Korea. Orozco recently passed away and is survived by his daughter Jessica Orozco. Jessica says her father could have lived a longer life with his family if he had not been deported and not been able to take advantage of the medical military benefits he was entitled to. She says she hopes the mural will bring attention to the issue of veterans being deported and separated from their families and communities after the military has no more use for them. Please dont let other families go through what we went through in losing our father. Santana says the goal of the murals is exactly that: to bring awareness and start a dialogue to prevent more veterans from being deported. People need to realize we are punishing those who served, said Lizbeth De La Cruz Santana. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47. Veterans job fair to be held at Naval Station Great Lakes on Thursday CHICAGO Veterans seeking jobs are encouraged to attend a job fair at Great Lakes Naval Station this Thursday, Aug. 8. Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and RecruitMilitary will host more than 30 companies from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Greenbelt Cultural Center, 1215 Green Bay Road in North Chicago. SEE ALSO: 97-year-old WWII veteran finally awarded long-overdue Victory Medal Registration is free. All transitioning military, veterans, military spouses and dependents are welcome. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. VIENNA TWP., Ohio (WKBN) Vienna Township police are getting some help, as speed cameras will bring in some extra income for the township starting Tuesday. Read next: Live: Tracking severe weather in the Valley The new cameras come after the township learned its missing over $1 million in funds since the start of the year and the state auditor declared a fiscal emergency. A public hearing was held Monday to inform residents of what they should know about the cameras and how they will help. When we issue traffic tickets, by the time court costs and everything else are taken out of those traffic tickets we get about $5 a ticket, said Trustee Phil Pegg. Last Tuesday, signs were put up heading into the township to inform drivers about the cameras. They are handheld and wont record cars that are speeding. Of the four township police officers, two are already trained on using them. What is speeding? That question has come up 11 miles an hour over, Pegg said. Cameras will mainly be at State Route 11, State Route 82, State Route 193, Niles-Vienna Road and Warren-Sharon Road. [Niles-Vienna Road] has become a race course ever since theyve got construction down in Howland. People have figured out its a back way to the mall, Pegg said. Weve had multiple deaths at Sodom Hutchings Road [near Warren Sharon Road]. As of now, the cameras wont be in neighborhoods. Officers will begin using the speed cameras Tuesday, and warnings will be issued for the first 30 days. Citations will be issued starting Sept. 5. At Mondays meeting, resident Douglas Gollan asked how quickly the money from the cameras would be available to the township. How soon is that money going to be recognized back into the fire department? Because Id really rather have the fire department up and running than the police department, Gollan said. The township had laid off first responders amid the budget shortfall, leaving residents upset and with questions. Isnt it a unique situation in which the police department is going to end up saving the fire department? Pegg said. Pegg asked if anyone had any ideas on how to generate income, and resident Joe Muccio asked about incorporating the township tax into the Youngstown Air Reserve Station. Theyve got almost $80 million in payroll. That could be $800,000 a year. Is it something worth looking into or do we just push it to the side and not even look into it? Muccio said. Youre never going to see that tax, Pegg replied. They dont pay local income tax since theyre stationed on the air base, Trustee Mike Haddle also replied. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. "Violation of the border": Russia says its sending reserves to Kursk Oblast The Russian Ministry of Defence has said that it has deployed reserve troops to the Russian-Ukrainian border in Kursk Oblast. Source: Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation on Telegram; Interfax-Russia news agency Details: The Russian Defence Ministry said that 300 Ukrainian soldiers, 11 tanks and more than 20 armoured personnel carriers attacked Russian units near the Russian state border in Kursk Oblast. The ministry claimed that the assault was launched at 08:00 Moscow time on 6 August and targeted the "units covering the state border of the Russian Federation in the vicinity of the towns of Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya in Kursk Oblast, directly adjacent to the Russian-Ukrainian border." Russian border forces and border guard units of the Russian Federal Security Service are allegedly repelling the Ukrainian attack. Background: Earlier on 6 August, Russian authorities claimed that Ukraine launched a large-scale drone and missile attack on Russias Kursk Oblast. Support UP or become our patron! A Virginia man is accused of making multiple online threats to kill Vice President Kamala Harris. NBC News reports that Frank Carillo of Winchester, Virginia, posted violent threats using an alias on the conservative social media site GETTR. Carillo allegedly posted 19 times about Harris, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, including threats to shoot, stab and burn her alive. The criminal complaint says that in one of his social media posts after Harris launched her presidential campaign, Carillo said that if Harris is elected, he would shoot and kill everyone who tried to stop him. NBC News reports a search of Carillos home turned up two guns a handgun and an RF-15 rifle. Both were purchased within the last two years. Carillo allegedly made over 4,000 posts or replies that targeted public officials. Others mentioned include President Joe Biden and FBI Director Christopher Wray, NBC reports. Carillo appeared in federal court Monday and is being temporarily detained pending a court hearing on Thursday. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: Emergency pothole repair closes busy Downtown Pittsburgh ramp until further notice Man charged in deadly stabbing of 73-year-old woman in Arnold called 911 on himself Man found dead in Ohio River in May identified as missing Pittsburgh man VIDEO: Home demolished after partially collapsing in North Braddock DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts (The Hill) A Virginia man is facing charges over online threats to kill Vice President Kamala Harris, and he is accused of making additional threats to other public officials. Frank Lucio Carillo was arrested Friday after a search of his account on the alternative social media platform GETTR by law enforcement yielded a series of violent threats against the vice president. Kamala Harris needs to be put on fire alive I will do it personally if no one else does it I want her to suffer a slow agonizing death, one of the posts read, according to Aug. 2 court filings. Other posts all made on July 27, when Harris held her first campaign fundraiser and it became apparent she would be the Democrats nominee expressed interest in inflicting severe bodily harm on Harris. At least 19 references to Harris were found on the account, according to the filings. Carillos posts allegedly targeted other public officials as well, including PresideJoe Biden and FBI Director Christopher Wray, though he has not been charged in connection with those comments. Harris almost doubles Bidens lead on Trump in New York: Poll The FBI became aware of Carillos account after the Maricopa County (Ariz.) Recorders office notified the agency about potential threats made against Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer, an election official who gained prominence online for pushing back against false claims of election fraud. In a Friday search of Carillos home, federal agents seized a rifle and handgun, according to an affidavit filed in support of his arrest. Carillo admitted to a law enforcement officer that if his arrest was about the online stuff. I posted it, the affidavit said. Carillo was set to appear in federal court for an initial hearing Monday morning. The arrest comes on the heels of the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally, which brought rising threats against public officials into the limelight. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. Residents packed the Marlington High School auditorium for a public hearing over a proposed solar farm in Washington Township. LEXINGTON TWP. Keith Beaver is a 20-year-old first generation farmer in Washington Township. While still in high school, he started his family's farm. "I became a farmer because there is nothing out there like having a pride and fulfillment in life like raising an animal or crop," he said in front of a packed Marlington High School auditorium. "It helps the community, we feed them. [It helps] the economy in our community, and it's what our community and township is based on, farming." Beaver was among those speaking out Monday night against a 150-megawatt solar farm proposed by Samsung C&T subsidiary Stark Solar. He said preserving the township's rich farmland should be top priority. "It is no place for a multibillion-dollar foreign company to come in and set up shop," Beaver said. His comments were echoed by about 25 others who submitted testimony to the Ohio Power Siting Board opposing the Stark Solar project. On the other side, about 20 submitted testimony in support of the effort during what was at times a contentious hearing. The hearing, which was overseen by administrative law judges Manette Asta and Matthew Sandor, lasted over three hours. Speakers had three minutes each to give testimony. Comments from Monday's meeting will become part of the case record for consideration by the Ohio Power Siting Board. Environmentalists voice support for Stark Solar farm Representatives from environmental and political groups and an environmental scientist spoke in favor of the Stark Solar project. Shayna Fritz of Columbus, executive director for the Ohio Conservative Energy Forum, said the project would create jobs and tax revenue. She also emphasized a need for renewable energy sources. "By harnessing solar power, we can reduce our reliance on out-of-state energy resources and increase our nations energy independence," she said. "It offers economic growth, environmental benefits and a forward-thinking approach that upholds our conservative values." Ryan Santa Maria of Columbus, who spoke on behalf of the Ohio Land and Liberty Coalition, said it is important to uphold property owners rights to lease their land for solar projects. "Times are tough, and we are all struggling to survive," he said. "Whether it's to pay the grocery bills or keep the house, these landowners saw an opportunity to live out their American Dream by utilizing their property." Brit Steiner, an environmental scientist who lives in Jackson Township, spoke in support of the project due to environmental impact. She said most scientists agree the planet is warming due to human activity, and we must support renewable energy initiatives to protect the planet and vulnerable populations. "We must do our part as Americans and Ohioans to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, which means as our energy needs increase, we must increase renewable energy, and quickly," Steiner said. Others speaking in support included Canton Mayor William Sherer II and workers and leaders from the Ohio Operating Engineers and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers unions. Testimony focused on the need for energy independence and jobs the project will bring to Stark County. More: 'Embrace a new opportunity for growth.' Canton mayor endorses Stark Solar project Washington Township residents largely opposed Many of the speakers and listeners in the crowd wore green Solar Free Stark T-shirts and waved signs with the words, "NO LARGE SCALE SOLAR." Solar Free Stark is a group formed in opposition of the Stark Solar project and is largely comprised of Washington Township residents. Many members, including Laura and Danny Schmucker and Kathy Wallace, spoke against the proposal, bringing up concerns about land use, property values and environmental impacts. Another Washington Township resident who provided testimony against the project was Cathy Krupko, a member of Marlington Local Board of Education. She started her testimony talking about what impact potential tax dollars could have on the school district. "Honestly, our school district is in need of funds," she said. "We have not passed a [new] tax levy in over 20 years." Krupko went on to say the tax revenue could benefit the schools, but she has outstanding concerns about how it will be paid as well as personal concerns as a Washington Township resident. "People should be able to make decisions about their property, but not when it infringes on the rights of others, especially their neighbors," Krupko said. "These are only some of the questions that remain unanswered." Case to continue with evidentiary hearing An evidentiary hearing at the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio office in Columbus is scheduled for 10 a.m. Sept. 17. Ahead of the hearing, the groups can submit evidence and expert testimony for the Siting Board's consideration. Parties will have a chance to submit briefs and reply briefs as final arguments following the evidentiary hearing. The Siting Board will then make its decision to approve the application, deny it or approve it with conditions. Appeals could follow, starting with a rehearing by the Siting Board, and eventually an appeal to the Ohio Supreme Court. If its application is approved, Stark Solar is expected to start construction in 2026 and begin operations in 2027. Reach Grace at 330-580-8364 or gspringer@gannett.com. Follow her on X @GraceSpringer16. This article originally appeared on The Repository: Public hearing on proposed Stark Solar farm draws divided crowd VP Harris is postponing NC stop with new running mate Walz due to weather concerns Vice President Kamala Harris and running mate Tim Walz are postponing their trip to Raleigh Thursday due to Tropical Storm Debby, a campaign official told McClatchy. Harris announce Walz, the Minnesota governor, as her vice presidential pick Tuesday morning. Harris was then expected to launch a five-day tour to battleground states across the country with her new running mate. The trip was scheduled to take the pair to Philadelphia, Detroit, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Raleigh, Savannah, Georgia, Phoenix, Arizona, and Las Vegas. But Tropical Storm Debby is supposed to approach North Carolina by Tuesday, bringing heavy rains, flash flooding and wind gusts up to 40 mph. Harris also canceled her campaign event in Savannah that was scheduled for Friday. The Harris campaign did not say when she might reschedule a visit. Meanwhile, the Republican nominee for vice president, Sen. JD Vance, is also expected to appear in Raleigh and Oaksboro on Thursday morning. Former President Donald Trumps running mate has scheduled events to speak to media in some of the same cities as Harris. Thursdays event would have marked Harris 8th to North Carolina this year. Democrats have been heavily focused on the state this election cycle in an attempt to win the presidential election. In 2020, President Joe Biden lost the election to former President Donald Trump by just 1.3%, Trumps lowest margin of victory in any state and Democrats are hoping to change that this year. Gov. Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm. WalletHub ranks Delaware public schools the safest in the nation. How did it get there? What's in a ranking? Back in June, a national report ranked Delaware 45th in education, focused on declining test scores and hikes in absenteeism. That Annie E. Casey Foundations KIDS COUNT Data Book noted "unprecedented declines" in student math and reading proficiency brought on in COVID-19 pandemic. Two weeks ago, WalletHub released its own rankings with Delaware's standings looking a little different. The personal finance website put the First State at No. 14, coming in above middle-of-the-pack among public schools across all 50 states and Washington D.C. WalletHub said its national study, released in late July, took into account 32 benchmarks including performance, funding, dropout rate and safety for a "comprehensive" approach. The two ranking studies mentioned are unrelated, as they join various comparisons, surveys and national datasets online. But as WalletHub's analyst Cassandra Happe looked to put it in the study: "Schools need to focus not just on test scores but also on making sure that students feel safe, comfortable and cared for. Other Delaware school rankings: Delaware ranks 45th in education in new national report How did Delaware schools compare in national rankings? Odessa High School honors its first graduating class of 281 students in the Class of 2024, Saturday, June 8, 2024. Delaware managed to top the safety rankings of this study, followed by Massachusetts and Maine. This state posted the smallest percentage of high school students "threatened or injured" at school, according to WalletHub. That's the the share of public school students, grades 9 to 12, who reported being threatened or injured with a weapon on school property, which was double-weighted in the study. Delaware was reportedly two-times better than the worst state, Louisiana. That also joins its No. 2 ranking for the lowest bullying incidence rate, which also carried double weight in the study. This doesn't necessarily match the tone of concern reported within Delaware school systems last school year, particularly in New Castle County. Statewide increases in arrests on school grounds, mirrored increases in complaints of fights and challenging behavior. A Student Behavior and School Climate Task Force took shape earlier this year, with recommendations on improvements expected this November. In a survey shared last month, Delaware's largest teachers union also reported 7 in 10 surveyed educators were "dissatisfied with working conditions." Student behavior and need for mental health support remain tension points, according to Delaware State Education Association. When it came to spending, Delaware stood out to WalletHub. Changing Delaware school funding? New commission will explore options It fell within the top-20 spenders, at No. 18, though funding didn't necessarily translate into great education in this study. Washington D.C., for example, had the second highest spending per student, with schools ranked No. 28. The state is weighing changes to such spending. Lawmakers created a task force in the final days of session to conduct a "comprehensive review of how public education is funded in the First State, and recommend a series of reforms to better address student need and more equitably distribute resources." The first set of recommendations is due in October 2025. The state stood out negatively in math, according to the study. Delaware schools sat at No. 48 for math test scores. This may sound familiar, as Delaware students posted 32% proficiency in math in 2023 state assessment results released this time last year. The next batch is due this month. In several other categories for WalletHub, Delaware managed to avoid the top and the bottom five. Delaware school climate: Teachers are battling poor student behavior post-COVID. Lawmakers look for answers How did WalletHub assess these state schools? Mrs. Hannah Schneese oversees the placement of her first grade students' backpacks in their assigned cubbies on the first day of school at Pleasantville Elementary School near New Castle, Aug. 28, 2023. Massachusetts schools took WalletHub's top position overall, followed by that of Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey and Wisconsin. The bottom held New Mexico, Oklahoma and Arizona. The site's study carried two key buckets: quality and safety. Education "quality" considered dropout rate, standardized tests scores, high school graduation rate, teachers credentials, teacher-student ratio, amount of schools with a Blue Ribbon recognition, how many public schools ranked are included in the "Top 700 Best U.S. Schools" and their projected high school graduation rate increase over 10 years. Massachusetts, Connecticut and New Jersey came in the top-three for quality of education, while Delaware Massachusetts and Maine claimed the top of the safety side. WalletHub's safety assessment examined these factors: Existence of a digital learning plan State statute on out of school access to instructional materials State guidance on accessible technologies Share of threatened/injured high school students Share of high school students not attending school due to safety concerns Share of children whose parents agree their children go to safe schools Share of high school students with access to illegal drugs Share of high school students participating in violence Share of armed high school students Number of school shootings between 2000-June 2022 Presence of adopted and enacted laws regulating school resource officers Bullying incidence rate Disciplinary incidence rate Youth incarceration rate School safety plan requirement School safety audit requirement Safety grade of roads around school Survey says: 75% of Delaware teachers say they're more likely to leave field early: Education roundup Emily Barnes of USA TODAY Network's New York State Team contributed to this report. Got a story? Contact Kelly Powers at kepowers@gannett.com, and follow her on Twitter @kpowers01. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware tops safety rankings across public schools in WalletHub study Before Kamala Harris picked Tim Walz of Minnesota, many insiders thought the polished and charismatic Pennsylvania governor, Josh Shapiro, had it in the bag. But in the end, those qualities may have doomed Shapiro's easy path to the White House as No. 2 on a Democratic presidential ticket running neck-and-neck with Donald Trump and J.D. Vance. In fact, Shapiros brazen political ambitions may have raised concerns that he couldn't be trusted to stay in his place. Intraparty rival Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) sounded alarm bells in recent days about the governors quest for higher office. A Fox News reporter on Tuesday tweeted: Two sources confirm on background the deciding factor in the VPs choice was what Sen Fetterman said publicly: concerns Shapiros his own personal ambitions would cause him to upstage/override Harris. In an oddly worded statement that read like a concession speech, Shapiro said Tuesday that the running mate decision was a deeply personal decision for the Vice Presidentand it was also a deeply personal decision for me. He vowed to spend the next 90 days traveling across the commonwealth to help Harris and Walz defeat Trump. Besides his not-so-secretive ambitions to become president, Shapiro, 51, had other fatal flaws as Harris and her team vetted the finalists: his involvement in a taxpayer-funded payoff to settle a sexual harassment claim against a top aide and his allegiance to Israel, which pro-Palestinian groups used to attack him. Some slammed those attacks as anti-semitic. If elected vice president, Shapiro would have been the highest-ranking Jewish U.S. government official in history. Hes known as a strong speaker who emulates Barack Obama. Furthermore, Shapiro was unpopular with education activists and teachers unions over his past support for school vouchers. He came under fire for his administrations move last year to pay nearly $300,000 using taxpayer money to settle a sexual harassment claim against one of his longtime aides. Hes also been seen sitting courtside with a donor at a 76ers game and caught flack for accepting pricy tickets to numerous other sporting events, potentially violating his states gift ban. Meanwhile, Walz was known mostly for a Minnesota nice sensibility. No prominent critics came out of the woodwork over the past few weeks. But the Trump campaign was quick to label him dangerously liberal for notching progressive policy wins. Harris is set to hold her first rally with her running mate, Walz, in Shapiros backyard Tuesday evening. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. With Walz as her VP, Harris doubles down on her far-left plans. Republicans must use this. Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris' choice of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate is a shortsighted decision. It's also a glorious pick for Republicans. I grew up in Minnesota, the beautiful North Star State. The people are lovely and hardworking (and to quote Garrison Keillor on Lake Wobegon, "strong" and "good-looking"). But the state is as progressive as they come. For decades, Minnesotans have chosen leftist politicians like Sen. Amy Klobuchar and Rep. IIhan Omar to represent them. As a result, Minnesota is one of the top 10 most taxed states in the union, and it pushes social policies that rival California's. Walz is one in a long string of Democratic governors. Since 1971, the state has elected only one Republican, two independent Republicans and a Reform Party member (former pro wrestler Jesse Ventura) as governor. If Walz's progressive politics are a sign of where Harris wants to take this nation as president, Republicans and anyone else who cares about the future of the country should be concerned. Walz doesn't broaden Harris' appeal Vice President Kamala Harris speaks next to Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz during a visit on March 14, 2024, to a clinic that performs abortions in St. Paul. Most politicians running for president choose a running mate from a state they either need to win or who will help them appeal to swing states where they're struggling. But Harris is polling well in Minnesota. It's possible Harris is concerned about sealing the state in her win column. Before Harris took over the ticket on July 21, President Joe Biden and Republican nominee Donald Trump were tied in Minnesota, which hinted at the possibility that the former president could win the traditionally blue state. But Harris' poll numbers jumped significantly in Minnesota when she was bumped to the top of the ticket. As a Republican, I bashed Biden. But Harris' far-left ideas scare me even more. Scott Cottington, a Republican political consultant based in Minnesota, said the choice of Walz demonstrates Harris' weakness. He told me in an e-mail, "(Harris) chose Walz based on her feelings not the math and its some combo of fearing her leftist base and reading her own press clips and believing herself that talented." Walz is a radical progressive It's hard to overestimate what a radical progressive Walz has been in Minnesota. After he was reelected as governor in 2022, a Minneapolis Star Tribune headline captured the state's direction: Minnesota Democrats rapidly advance the most progressive agenda in a generation. Last year, lawmakers spent the state's $18 billion surplus on Walz's One Minnesota Budget, which pumped taxpayers' money into a number of the governor's pet projects, including free college for middle-income families. As stock markets plummet, ask yourself: Do you really want Harris running the economy? Fiscal policies are just the start. Minnesota could compete with California on social issues. After the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, Minnesota lawmakers enacted a right to abortion at all stages of pregnancy, ignoring any need for moderation or limits. They also passed a law last year establishing Minnesota as a transgender refuge state. Republicans worried that the new law will allow the state to force parents to give their children life-altering treatment, even if they disagree with their minor child's medical plans. Walz doesn't shy away from his progressive image. On a "White Dudes For Harris" fundraising call for Harris last week, Walz said this about his own leftism: "Don't ever shy away from our progressive values. One person's socialism is another person's neighborliness." That idea that the power of government equates to being a good neighbor is very on brand for Walz. Opinion newsletter: Sign up for our newsletter on conservative values, family and religion from columnist Nicole Russell. Get it delievered to your inbox. Mark Drake, a former GOP communications director in Minnesota, cast doubt on Walz's ability to help Harris due to his progressive record. "Kamala Harris seems to think that picking Tim Walz will help her shed her ultra-liberal San Francisco image, but I don't think it will," Drake said via email. "Tim Walz lost his home congressional district badly during his 2022 campaign because he went hard left as governor on taxes, spending and cultural issues." Republicans must use Walz to their advantage Walz is a weak pick compared with Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, widely reported as a finalist to be Harris' running mate. Shapiro might have guaranteed a Harris win in Pennsylvania, and he comes across as measured and compassionate. Walz's progressive record is clear, and it's a gift to Republicans right when they need use it. In his novel "Lake Wobegon Days," Minnesotan Garrison Keillor wrote: "The rich can afford to be progressive. Poor people have reason to be afraid of the future. These days, even the rich can't afford to be progressive. No one can. The country certainly can't, either. Keillor is right about one thing, though: Poor people, rich people, Democrats and Republicans, should be afraid of the future that the Harris-Walz ticket would bring. The United States cannot afford to swing any further to the left. Nicole Russell is an opinion columnist with USA TODAY. She lives in Texas with her four kids. Sign up for her newsletter, The Right Track, and get it delivered to your inbox. You can read diverse opinions from our USA TODAY columnists and other writers on the Opinion front page, on X, formerly Twitter, @usatodayopinion and in our Opinion newsletter. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Walz doesn't broaden Harris' appeal. But he fits her far left agenda Much is made of vice presidential choices, and Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is no different. Well known for attacking Donald Trump and JD Vance as weird, Walz, 60, beat out a competitive field of Democratic options, including Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. A moderate Democrat, Walz served as a U.S. representative from 2007 to 2019 and is considered an appealing option for potential independent voters. Harris decision comes at a crucial time in the 2024 U.S. presidential election. With less than three months remaining, national polls suggest the race is very close and Harris believes her choice of vice president will translate to votes in crucial swing states on Election Day. The Conversation U.S. has published numerous stories on vice presidents and whether their selections helped or hurt presidential campaigns. Here are a few of them. 1. What do vice presidents actually do? As political scientist Joshua Holzer noted, the U.S. Constitution has only a few references to the vice presidency. Those references spell out that the Vice President shall become President if the president becomes incapacitated, and their main duties include serving as the president of the U.S. Senate who can vote only to break a tie. John Adams, the nations first vice president, called the job the most insignificant Office. Gilbert Stuart, National Gallery of Art via Wikimedia Commons But as Holzer points out, ties in the Senate have been rare. Since 1789, only 301 tiebreaking votes have been cast, and 12 vice presidents, including then-Vice President Joe Biden, never cast a single one. Harris holds the record with 33 tiebreaking votes. Other than staying out of trouble to avoid impeachment and waiting around to serve as or replace the president, vice presidents are really only obligated to occasionally cast a tie-breaking vote in the Senate, Holzer wrote. This means that the great majority of the time, vice presidents have no real job to do. John Adams, the first U.S. vice president, had a similar opinion. He once complained to his wife that the vice presidency was the most insignificant Office that ever the Invention of Man contrived or his Imagination conceived. Read more: Kamala Harris has tied the record for the most tie-breaking votes in Senate history a brief overview of what vice presidents do 2. Do no harm As a scholar who studies American politics, Philip Klinkner has explored how political considerations in selecting a vice president have changed over the years. While there is little evidence that vice presidential candidates help their tickets, a bad pick can hurt the ticket. Whether Harris decided to play it safe or go bold with her pick, the most important consideration was to do no harm, Klinkner wrote. With a bad pick, Klinkner explained, the issue isnt whether the ticket is sufficiently balanced or diverse, but rather whether the candidate was adequately vetted. The worst picks Tom Eagleton in 1972, Quayle in 1988 and Palin in 2008 resulted from hasty and poorly thought out selection processes, Klinkner wrote. Read more: Veepstakes have evolved from where you live to who you are which way will Harris turn to balance the ticket? 3. Trumps choice Karyn Amira is a political scientist whose research focuses on the relationship between Donald Trump, the Republican Party and conservatism. Since Trump chose U.S. Sen. JD Vance of Ohio as his running mate, its been widely reported that Vance once described Trump as morally reprehensible and cultural heroin, and he privately compared him to Hitler. But the day after Vance won his own Senate race in 2022, he reportedly made it known that he would support Trump for president in 2024 and now says that he would not have readily certified the 2020 election if he had been in Vice President Mike Pences shoes. As Amira pointed out, Vance doesnt represent a swing state. Nor does he have much appeal to MAGA-skeptical independent voters. But people close to Trump call the 39-year-old Vance the new heir to Trumps MAGA movement. What can be concluded from Trump choosing Vance? Since 2015, Amira explained, Trump has tightened his grip on the Republican Party, moving it further from its professed conservative ideology. The choice of Vance as Trumps running mate and the competition that preceded it are the latest steps in this process, Amira wrote. Read more: JD Vance's selection as Trump's running mate marks the end of Republican conservatism Editors note: This story is a roundup of articles from The Conversations archives. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Howard Manly, The Conversation. Read more: SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Its Tuesday, August 6. Take a look at our top stories in news and weather with KELOLAND On The GO First@4. Vice President Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) to be her running mate as she heads toward a November faceoff against former President Trump, she announced Tuesday. Harris picks Walz for vice president Two Sioux Falls men were arrested Tuesday morning after a chase on the East Side of the city, according to Sioux Falls police. 2 arrested in east Sioux Falls chase South Dakota leaders are reacting to Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz being named Kamala Harris running mate. SD Dems, Noem react to Walz VP selection Today has been noticeably more comfortable across the region thanks to lower dew points and cooler temperatures as well. Unsettled into Wednesday; Remaining Cooler for a While The commander of the 28th Operations Group, Col. Mark Kimball, has been relieved of his duties at Ellsworth Air Force, the Air Force Global Strike Command said in a news release. Ellsworth commander loses job after crash report People across the country are getting together tonight for the National Night Out event. National Night Out events hit the nation Download the KELOLAND News app to find the latest headlines while on the go. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D), who was chosen Tuesday to be Vice President Harriss running mate, brings a progressive approach to health care, with a focus on reducing costs. Walz has said his health policy priorities have been shaped in part by his personal experience. His father died of cancer when Walz was 19, leaving his mother drowning in medical debt. In June, Walz signed a law banning medical providers from withholding medically necessary care due to unpaid debt. With a Democratic state Legislature, Walz has launched a prescription drug affordability board that can set limits on what insurers pay. He signed a bill to help people afford insulin in emergency situations, and the state this year reached a settlement with Eli Lilly to cap all insulin prices at $35 for the next five years. During his tenure as governor, Minnesota has also implemented a drug price transparency initiative. In his first inaugural address in 2019, Walz said he wanted to reaffirm health care in the state as a human right. What Minnesotans want from their health care is simple. They dont want to get sick in the first place. But if they do, they want care at a price they can afford and at a location close to home, Walz said. As Minnesotans, we can figure out how to deliver health care more effectively, more affordably and with better results. We can, and must, ensure that every Minnesotan has access to quality care at a price they can afford. Tim Walz gets Harris nod: 5 things to know Walz has also championed the Minnesota Health Care Access Fund, which helps fund health care coverage for low-income state residents. The former high school teacher has demonstrated a pragmatic approach to health care policy, particularly when it comes to incentivizing medical businesses to continue operating in his state. Walz supported watering down a hospital price transparency bill after the Mayo Clinic the states largest employer threatened to pull billions of dollars in new investments. The threat also led Walz and the Democratic Legislature to back down from a bill that would have mandated hospitals and clinics create core staffing plans to establish the maximum number of patients each nurse could care for. On abortion, Walz aimed to make Minnesota a safe haven for access in the wake of the end of Roe v. Wade. He signed a bill making the right to an abortion a state law. Abortion in Minnesota is legal until fetal viability, typically around 23 to 25 weeks. Harris in March visited a Minnesota Planned Parenthood clinic that provides abortions, becoming the first U.S. vice president to visit an abortion clinic. Walz also eliminated a mandatory 24-hour waiting period and parental consent requirement and signed an abortion shield law to protect health providers and patients from abortion-related prosecution in other states. Last year, Walz signed legislation legalizing adult-use marijuana in his state. Along with ushering in a new legalized cannabis industry into Minnesota, the bill also allowed for some low-level marijuana offenses to be expunged from criminal records. During his time in Congress, Walz showed his willingness to cross party leaders. Walz voted for the Affordable Care Act in 2010 and never supported any of the GOP replacements. The 2010 vote was among the factors that put him in Republican crosshairs, but he still managed to win reelection. But in 2015, he voted in favor of a bill repealing the laws excise tax on medical devices, putting him at odds with then-President Obama, who had vowed to veto previous iterations of the bill. The law was put on temporary hiatus in 2016 and repealed under former President Trump in 2019. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Want to speak at a Bellefonte Borough Council meeting? You now need to be a resident, show ID Tempers flared Monday when Bellefonte council members argued among themselves and with people who attended a meeting that saw the borough change the way it receives feedback from the public. The heated meeting drew several groans from attendees and included brickbats from council members to fellow council members. After Councilwoman Joanne Tosti-Vasey raised her voice to cast her vote as she has done in the past council President Kent Bernier quickly responded. We talked about that, Joanne, Bernier said. Remember, try to be professional. We know youre passionate about it, but you can be professional. I am professional about it, Tosti-Vasey replied. No, youre not, Bernier responded. That sounded childish. The verbal sparring between the two came at the end of a contentious 5-4 vote to change the way the borough carries out its public comment period. The vote was conducted without public comment and over an objection from Tosti-Vasey. The new resolution passed by Borough Council requires borough residents to register and show identification at the beginning of each meeting. It also gives Borough Council the option to shut down or defer public comments if it determines they are unusually long, the atmosphere has become unruly, or the comments become repetitive. Public comments would be accepted at the beginning of the meeting for items on the agenda, while comments about items not on the agenda wouldnt be heard until the end of the meeting. The previous policy allowed for public comment from Bellefonte residents, business owners and their employees, and representatives of nonprofits that affect the borough. Tosti-Vasey decried the new restrictions, saying they disenfranchise employees who work for Bellefonte businesses, but do not live in the borough. For example, she said, neither the director of Historic Bellefonte Inc. nor the director of Downtown Bellefonte Inc. would be allowed to offer public comment during Borough Council meetings under the new resolution. On its face, this looks like an attempt to me to quash speech, Tosti-Vasey said. This timing also attempts to suppress any comment you may not want to hear this evening or in the future. The resolution was brought forward at the first meeting since nearly a dozen people urged Borough Council to call for a cease-fire aimed at ending the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Attendees spoke for about 45 minutes at the mid-July meeting. It was the first time Borough Council passed a resolution regarding public comment since December 2021, borough Manager Ralph Stewart told the CDT. Melissa Melewsky media law counsel for the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association, of which the Centre Daily Times is a member wrote in an email to the CDT that the policy is consistent with state law and similar versions are used across the state. But she also questioned the way in which the resolution was proposed. The aspect that I find disturbing here is the fact that it appears to have been enacted as a result of public comments that the agency members might have found objectionable. Public comment policies must be reasonable and cannot be used as a means to discourage public comment, Melewsky wrote. The fact that this policy was only enacted after public comment that apparently had the disapproval of elected officials raises a red flag. Government should welcome public comment and make time for robust public debate on matters of public concern. That can take time and be controversial, but thats the nature of free speech. It is the job of public officials to facilitate time and opportunity for the public to be heard by their community and elected officials. Before casting their votes, Councilwoman Deborah Cleeton said requiring residents in a borough the size of Bellefonte to show identification is embarrassing. Councilwoman Rita Purnell disagreed, saying we have to show ID for lots of other things that we do in our life. I dont understand why its such a big deal for this. Councilwoman Shawna McKean said the timing of the resolution being brought for a vote sounds discriminatory. She was met with applause after she said she planned to introduce a cease-fire resolution. Bernier, Councilman Randy Brachbill, Councilwoman Barbara Dann, Councilman Doug Johnson and Purnell voted in favor of the resolution. Cleeton, McKean, Councilwoman Johanna Sedgwick and Tosti-Vasey voted against. Arguments then spilled out from council members to attendees, sometimes with the former talking over the latter. Stewart and Bernier were among those who attempted to shut down a mans comment for being out of order. You are out of order by putting the vote before the public comments, Tony White said. Thats out of order. According to who? Bernier responded. After being told he would be escorted out of the meeting if he did not stop, White continued with one more comment. Its amazing that when people are concerned about people dying and speaking up about it that your response is to stop them from speaking instead of considering it and taking the action thats possible, White said. Eight people spoke in support of a cease-fire at the end of the meeting, including an 11-year-old. Borough Councils next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 3. This November, Washington County's ballot holds more than just the choice for the next president it could determine if you can enjoy a bottomless mimosa during Sunday brunch. On Monday, the Washington County Commissioners voted unanimously to include a measure in the Nov. 5 general election that seeks to modernize a 40-year-old liquor regulation. (left to right) Washington County Commissioners Mike Dunlap, Mike Bouvier and Mitch Antle voted to include a measure in the November general election that seeks to modernize a 40-year-old liquor regulation on Monday August 5, 2024. Currently, Washington County bars can serve alcohol from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., with more restrictive hours on Sundays, when sales are limited to noon to midnight. This law, enacted in 1985, has been a point of contention, especially on New Year's Eve, which has fallen on a Sunday six times since the law took effect. County Commissioner Mitch Antle led the initiative after gathering feedback from local businesses and comparing Washington County's liquor laws with those in other counties. The proposed update would extend serving hours to 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily, aligning with counties like Tulsa. Oklahoma's journey with alcohol regulation is a storied one. The state was the last to repeal prohibition in 1959, leading to the advent of "liquor-by-the-wink" laws and bottle clubs where patrons brought their own liquor. These laws, often unenforced, resulted in an estimated one million illegal drinks being sold annually. More: Decades-old liquor law could change if voters want it to, county commissioner says Efforts to modernize liquor laws failed in 1972 and 1976, but a 1984 state law finally allowed counties to vote on whether they were "wet" or "damp." It is unknown why Washington County chose a slightly more confusing and restrictive schedule in 1985, but the new initiative hopes to standardize the hours. Antle argues that modernizing the hours will level the playing field for Washington County businesses, allowing them to better compete with businesses in counties with more relaxed hours. This article originally appeared on Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise: Washington County votes on updating bar hours this November PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A congressional primary race that could affect the balance of power in the United States takes center stage locally and nationally on Tuesday. Voters in Washingtons 3rd Congressional District which includes Clark County will cast their ballots for incumbent freshman Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez or her two Republican opponents, Joe Kent and Leslie Lewallen. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez on the battle to keep her seat this election season Perez defeated Kent, the former special forces veteran and Trump supporter, to earn her congressional seat in the 2022 election. The primary race is a top-two race, meaning the top two vote getters regardless of party will face off in Novembers general election. Perez said she wants a second term in Congress to advocate for the working class. Kent has the support of major Republican players, while Lewallen is a Camas city councilor. Joe Kent on the 2024 primary race for Washingtons 3rd Congressional District While the 3rd District race has the spotlight, Washington voters will also weigh in on races for governor (to replace the retiring Jay Inslee), secretary of state, attorney general, state treasurer, state auditor, commissioner of public lands and the superintendent of public instruction. Leslie Lewallen on the race for Washingtons 3rd District State legislative positions and two county council positions are also up for grabs in Clark County. Clark County Auditor Greg Kimsey told KOIN 6 News the turnout is not quite what it was two years ago. Well, weve got a pretty good chunk of ballots in (Monday) morning, he told KOIN 6 News. Weve got about 22,000 ballots from the ballot drop boxes and the post office. But in general, turnouts been lagging behind what weve seen in past years, so were hoping that tonight and tomorrow (Monday night and Tuesday), people will get out there and vote their ballot. Ballots need to be postmarked by Tuesday for it to count. At this point, its probably better to take your ballot to one of Clark Countys 22 official dropboxes by 8 p.m. Tuesday. Voters can also cast their ballot in person at Clark County Elections. Preliminary results with an estimated 75% of ballots counted should be available by 8:15 p.m. Tuesday. All ballots should be in and counted by Friday. Stay with KOIN 6 News, Your Local Election Headquarters. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) The state of Washington is asking residents to keep an eye out for invasive insects on trees this summer. Late summer is usually the peak for invasive wood-boring insects to emerge from trees in their adult stage, the state said, and researchers are working to monitor the situation. Explosions rock NE Portland neighborhood; man arrested Researchers and scientists are monitoring for invasive species statewide, but we need the publics help, said Stephanie Helms, executive coordinator of the Washington Invasive Species Council. Public awareness of emerging invasive pest issues can greatly reduce the risk of spread, as human travel plays a major role in the movement of unwanted insects. Since 1990, officials said that at least 70 insect species have been detected across Washington and 36% of them were first discovered by the public. While you are outside enjoying the summer, take ten minutes to search your yards and neighborhood trees, Zeima Kassahun of the Washington Department of Natural Resources suggests. If you see or suspect you see an invasive insect, report your findings, including a picture, to the Washington Invasives mobile app or on the Washington Invasive Species Council website, which routes the report to organizations that can help. Oregon measles outbreak records at least 23 cases since June The state highlighted three insects to watch for: Invasive Longhorned Beetles, Emerald Ash Borers and Spotted Lanternflies. The Longhorned Beetles have been found in Washington several times before however they have always been stopped before trees could be damaged. Emerald Ash Borers and Spotted Lanternflies havent been found in Washington yet, but the borers were found recently in Oregon and Vancouver, British Columbia and the Lanternflies have been seen in California. Washington residents are being asked to take 10 minutes to check trees on their property showing sudden signs of death and look for sawdust and exit holes or adult beetles. If a living insect is found, residents are asked to take a photo and send a report to the Washington Invasive Species Council online or through their mobile app. Explosions rock NE Portland neighborhood; man arrested Residents are also asked to check swimming pools and inside lamps where they can often be found dead. Alert residents can help spot infestations when they are easy to handle, said Helms. All it takes is ten minutes to check your trees this August, and you could save the state hundreds of thousands, if not millions, in potential invasive species management costs. And yours could be the report that saves your neighborhoods trees. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Watch: Cat with jar stuck over its head rescued in Texas Aug. 6 (UPI) -- Authorities in Texas came to the rescue of a cat seen running around a neighborhood with a jar stuck over its head. The Palmhurst Police Department said on social media that officers responded to the report of a cat in distress and arrived to find the feline had a jar stuck over its head and appeared to be unable to see. "We're unsure how long this poor feline had been suffering in this heat and unable to see but action need to be taken immediately," the department said. The cat, dubbed "Jar Jar" by police, was taken to a veterinarian for evaluation. Realty Building site cleaned up and cleared out as demolition is completed YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) The demolition of downtown Youngstowns Realty Tower is finished. Read next: Seen on WKBNs weather camera: What is the massive machine in the Ohio River near East Liverpool? All was quiet September 27 at the corner of Central Square where the Realty Tower once stood. Youngstowns Director of Public Works Chuck Shasho said the last piece of demolition equipment was removed September 25. E. Federal Street between Central Square and Champion Street remains closed until the short stretch of road can be repaired. Shasho hopes to have it done before the Christmas parade in early December. Moderalli Excavating took down what remained of the stairwell on September 12, then crews began the work of filling the basement with compacted gravel. The evacuation order for the surrounding businesses and International Towers apartments has been lifted, and people have returned home. City officials previously said that when demolition reached the fourth floor, it would be safe for the neighboring residents of International Towers to return to their homes. The fear had previously been that the building would collapse, leading to an evacuation order for the area around the building. Demolition process and tools used Crews have been working on the demolition for weeks now. A second, much larger crane was brought in to bring down the structure, which was badly damaged by a natural gas explosion in May. Prior to this crane, a smaller one had been used since July 12. Crews have used both circular and U-shaped wrecking balls. Before demolition, part of the fire escape was removed from the building. Crews started the demolition by taking off the roof and then went down, floor by floor. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency was on-site to make sure any asbestos materials were handled properly. The R logos on the building will be saved for historical purposes. Demolition had been briefly halted a few times for mechanical and dust issues. Impact on residents and the city City officials said people should expect increased traffic, the presence of dust, further damage to roads and curbs near the building, and relocation of barricades during this time. In a press conference, Youngstown Mayor Tito Brown said that he hopes that downtown will be restored and he offered his prayers and condolences to the victims of the explosion. The owners of the property, Live Youngstown/YO 47 Properties, issued a statement after the demolition began: This is not what we imagined for Realty Tower. When you restore buildings as we do, it is with the intent to create life and restore vibrancy. It is why we exhausted every possibility of saving this building. This isnt what we want, and this isnt the easy solution but we must do it to provide a path forward. We didnt envision this buildings story would come to such a premature and sudden end. We mourn the loss of Akil drakes life. We mourn the loss of the homes and lives that filled this beloved building. We will always mourn, but we will cherish Realty Towers legacy by gathering the pieces of this rubble to create something new. The soul of Youngstown isnt being demolished today, it remains as does our commitment to it, the people of Youngstown. Live Youngstown/YO 47 Properties There had been efforts from some people in the community to save the building, but the buildings owner said demolition was the best course of action to quickly reopen the downtown. Residents belongings left inside On July 10, first responders went into the building to retrieve some personal belongings of the residents who were evacuated after the explosion. They were only able to take what would fit inside a duffle bag. Demolition crews had been taking some of the items residents werent able to retrieve. Mike Durkin, who handles demolitions for the city, said once a demolition contract is awarded to a company, they can do whatever they want with whats in that building. Since then, Mayor Brown said he spoke with the owner of Modarelli Excavating, who said it would not be permitted anymore. To be clear, the taking of property from the Realty Tower is unacceptable. This was someones home and those belongings represent their personal story, Brown said. Check back here for updates on this developing story. Shianna Gibbons, Gerry Ricciutti and Lorie Barber contributed to this report. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Click here to view this content. A man was knocked to the ground by a police officer carrying a riot shield during a night of violence in Plymouth, footage shows. Devon and Cornwall Police officers wearing full riot gear and carrying protective shields are seen standing in a line when a man wearing a pink T-shirt approaches them. As he stumbles towards the officers, one strikes him with a shield and the man appears to briefly lose his balance. The footage shows him then face the officer once more before being hit again, losing his footing and then dropping to the floor. Several witnesses of the incident can be heard shouting complaints with one asking: Is he alright? Others try to help the rioter to his feet. However, the man remains on the floor. A firework launched from elsewhere then appears to be fired towards the officers marshalling the scene. The incident happened on Monday during a night of violence in which three police officers were injured in Plymouth. Devon and Cornwall Police said six people were arrested on Monday night with two members of the public taken to hospital. The force deployed 150 officers in the city centre where two protest groups formed. Police officers intervene at a riot in Plymouth - ANADOLU/GETTY A spokesman for the force said: We have made six arrests following events in Plymouth today [Monday 5 August]. Specialist officers were deployed to the Guildhall in the city centre at around 3.30pm today. During the evening, we saw levels of violence across the city and several officers sustained minor injuries as a result. A number of members of the public were also injured, with two conveyed to hospital. Our approach to this operation was to enable peaceful protests, but people who were intent on committing public order or criminal offences, have and will be dealt with robustly. This is the style of policing that we have delivered and what our communities expect. Violence will not be tolerated, hate will not be tolerated, and we will continue to work with our partners to keep the people of Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly safe and reduce anti-social behaviour. The disorder comes after the killings of three children at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on 29 July in Southport, which has sparked a wave of unrest across the country. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Private Cygnus freighter arrives at the ISS with 4 tons of supplies (video, photos) When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Northrop Grumman's Cygnus cargo spacecraft is captured by the International Space Station's robotic arm on Aug. 6, 2024. | Credit: NASA Northrop Grumman's robotic Cygnus freighter reached the International Space Station (ISS) early Tuesday morning (Aug. 6), carrying about 4 tons of supplies to the orbiting lab. The Cygnus, which launched atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on Sunday (Aug. 4), was captured by the station's robotic arm on Tuesday at 3:11 a.m. (0711 GMT), as the duo were flying over the South Atlantic Ocean. The freighter named the S.S. Richard "Dick" Scobee, after the commander of the tragic STS-51-L mission of the space shuttle Challenger delivered nearly 8,200 pounds (3,720 kilograms) of food, scientific gear and other supplies to the ISS. a cylindrical silver spacecraft is grappled in orbit by a white robotic arm, with earth in the background Among the experiments is Rotifer-B2, which will study how spaceflight affects DNA repair mechanisms in the rotifer species Adineta vaga. "These tiny but complex organisms are known for their ability to withstand harsh conditions, including radiation doses 100 times higher than human cells can survive," NASA officials wrote in a description of the current cargo mission, which is known as NG-21, because it's the 21st ISS flight for a Cygnus vehicle. Rotifer-B2 "could improve the general understanding of DNA damage and repair mechanisms for applications on Earth," they added. Related: Facts about Cygnus, Northrop Grumman's cargo ship a cylindrical silver spacecraft is seen from above, with earth in the background RELATED STORIES: SpaceX launches private Cygnus cargo craft to ISS (video, photos) Track the ISS: How and where to see it International Space Station Everything you need to know The S.S. Richard "Dick" Scobee didn't have a perfectly smooth ride to the ISS. Shortly after deploying from the Falcon 9's upper stage on Sunday, the freighter missed a planned engine burn. The Cygnus then aborted the rescheduled burn 50 minutes later after detecting slightly lower-than-expected pressure readings. But Northrop Grumman engineers evaluated the data and confirmed that the pressure readings were acceptable after all, NASA officials announced in an update today (Aug. 5). Cygnus performed two engine burns and got itself on course for its ISS rendezvous. Editor's note: This story was updated at 3:20 a.m. ET on Aug. 6 with news of Cygnus' arrival at the ISS. Donald Trumps campaign really does not want to talk about the presidential debate he backed out of, originally scheduled for September 10. On Tuesday morning, Trumps press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, was interviewed on Newsmax, telling hosts Shaun Kraisman and Emma Rechenberg that Trump will never back down from the hostile fake news media. Hes not afraid. But why wont former President Trump debate on ABC News, the one he committed to with Biden? Harris said shed show up to that one. Do you have an answer for that? Does he have an answer for that? Kraisman asked. Leavitt initially hesitated. Yes, we do. Well, first of all, that debate was committed between President Trump and Joe Biden. The race has changed, Leavitt said. The Kamala Harris campaign pounced, posting the interview on X (formerly Twitter). Trump press secretary: Trump will never back down from the hostile media! Newsmax host: Then why wont he debate on ABC, the debate he committed to? Trump press secretary: W-well... The race has changed... pic.twitter.com/ycGRoG73aa Kamala HQ (@KamalaHQ) August 6, 2024 Later on Tuesday, Trump campaign adviser Danielle Alvarez claimed on Fox News that the former president and convicted felon was ready to debate, noting that he accepted a debate that would be hosted by Fox. Kamala Harris is running scared, and I dont blame her because President Trump delivered a knockout punch to Joe Biden in that first CNN debate. They formed a coup and forced him out. President Trump is absolutely prepared to debate, Alvarez told Foxs Bret Baier. He takes tough interviews all the time, and its in stark contrast to Kamala Harris, who has not taken an interview in the 17 days since she ascended. Well, he obviously stepped back from the ABC debate offer on September 10, Baier pointed out. But youre saying that theres a belief that Kamala Harris will accept a debate? She absolutely should accept a debate, Alvarez replied. She needs to explain to the American people the failures that are occurring, especially in the last 24 hours. Its funny to say that Harris is scared, when Trump refuses to take part in a debate with ABC News moderators who wont be on his side, unlike at Fox News. Trump has made multiple excusesfrom made-up polls to former President Barack Obamafor backing out of the previously agreed-upon debates. In reality, the truth is that hes probably the one who is running scared. A severe storm is moving toward metro Detroit, sweeping across southern Michigan and is expected to dump an inch or 2 of rainfall, some large hail, and could even spawn deadly tornadoes in Lenawee and Monroe counties. "Were monitoring a supercell thunderstorm thats a couple counties away to the west and its moving southeast at about 40 mph and has a history of rotation," said weather service meteorologist Megan Varcie in White Lake Township. "It's this one thunderstorm that could be tornadic." In other simpler terms, its big and could be dangerous. So, just after 8 a.m., the weather service issued a tornado watch. At about the same time, the weather service in Grand Rapids said it issued a tornado warning which lasted for about half and hour with no mishaps for part of Kalamazoo County. The weather service in Syracuse, Indiana, which also covers part of Michigan, issued two tornado warnings. There was some damage in the Three Rivers area, downed trees and a structure that lost part of its roof, the weather service confirmed with the Free Press. The Syracuse office will be investigating whether it was caused by strong winds or a tornado. A tornado watch, Varcie said, means people in those areas should be on alert, listening to hear whether the watch gets upgraded to a warning. And if that happens, folks should take shelter right away and keep listening for more alerts. If there is hail, Varcie added, it could be 1-1 inches in diameter, and winds could gust up to 60-70 mph. Outside Lenawee and Monroe counties, the weather service said, theres the possibility of some localized flooding, especially in urban and low-lying areas, and places near rivers and streams that tend to overflow, as the already-saturated ground tries to soak in even more rainfall. The tornado watch is in effect until 3 p.m., and by about 4 p.m., Varcie said, the storm is expected to have moved through Michigan, with sunshine, and cooler and less humid weather, not far behind for at least a couple days, that is. Contact Frank Witsil: 313-222-5022 or fwitsil@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Supercell thunderstorm sweeping Michigan could spawn tornadoes CHARLES TOWN, W.Va. (DC News Now) Two candidates for the West Virginia Senate in the eastern panhandle have agreed to a series of debates preceding the November election. Incumbent Republican Patricia Rucker and her Democrat challenger, John Doyle, will hold at least one debate in Shepherdstown, Jefferson County and one in Inwood, Berkeley County. Jefferson County revisits era when schools were separate but equal Each debate will be 90 minutes and will take questions from the audience. Both candidates want civility to mark their campaign. We would like to model for the constituency and also other legislators and campaigns how to have a civil discourse, Rucker said. Rucker was elected in 2016 and has been twice re-elected. Doyle is a veteran of the state House of Delegates, in which he served multiple terms, with a break during the administration of former Gov. Bob Wise when he was budget director. What youre going to see in these debates, Doyle said. Is differences of opinion discussed respectfully and in a friendly manner. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. MACOMB, Ill. (WMBD) In Macomb, a rally was held with a decision looming. Western Illinois University faculty and staff are currently facing layoffs. At this time, the amount of people who will lose their job is undetermined. The expectation is that the WIU administration and Board of Trustees will approve the university wide layoffs at their emergency board meeting tomorrow. Union representatives say they want to see the Board of Trustees do better. Were here to stop the BOT, said University Professionals of Illinois WIU President Merrill Cole. The Board of Trustees are making an awful mistake. Theyve already made a mistake. Theyve already terrorized our campus. Im hearing from students who dont know whats going to happen to them. They are doing a disservice to our students by cutting the faculty that they love. Its got to stop. With just weeks before the school year starts for WIU, faculty, staff, students and supporters are efforting a solution that would be an alternative to layoffs. Today, what were trying to call attention to, to the board is that this is not the right path for you to take, said President of University Professionals of Illinois John Miller. The path for you to really take is to work with us to solve your financial issues. This will not solve your cash flow issues in the short term. They have nothing to do with your cash flow issues. This is stuff that we can work with you on in the long run to build this institution, or to continue to build this institution, and to protect our communities, WIUs Board of Trustees will meet Tuesday at 8 a.m. to vote yes or no on a proposed layoff period that would run through June 2025. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. A suspect was fatally shot Monday night near Brevard. A police chief from one Western North Carolina town and the commander of investigations from another are among instructors facing possible state sanctions after findings of abuse and injury to students and other violations in a law enforcement training program. Waynesville Police Chief David Adams and Brevard Police Captain Dan Godman are among six former Blue Ridge Community College instructors who were suspended and are set to appear this month before the N.C. Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission. That is according to recently released records by justice standards officials. Should the commission decide against them during the hearings that begin Aug. 21 there could be a range of sanctions, up to revocation of trainer certification and even loss of law enforcement certification. Adams and Godman were instructors in Blue Ridge's Basic Law Enforcement Training program that was shut down May 8 and suspended for five years. That was after the commission said it found "egregious" rule violations that included physical and verbal abuse of students, creating a false record of student participation in a physical ability test and using non-certified people to act as role players during "Subject Control Arrest Techniques" training. Other potential violations involved more administrative problems, such as not ensuring instructors used commission-approved lesson plans, the commission said. Four of the suspended instructors were SCAT trainers: Adams, Joseph Ellis, Godman and Kenneth Hamby. Two were certified general instructors: Bryan Baldwin and Matthew Owens. Blue Ridge's BLET has been shut down once before when the college said in 2023 it learned of "concerning" conditions and actions by instructors. After work to fix problems, it reopened for spring 2024 with the approval and encouragement of justice standards officials, according to an Aug. 1 statement released by spokesperson Erica Allison. But issues arose again, this time leading to student injuries, including one who broke their back, and the program closed again. Nine of the approximately dozen students graduated in July from the BLET program at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College. Adams, 54, worked at the Hendersonville Police Department for 16 years and was police chief in Franklin before taking over the Waynesville department in 2020. Reached Aug. 5 by the Citizen Times, he noted he had been a BLET instructor with Blue Ridge for more than 20 years, calling it "a really good program." "I hate that this happened," he said, adding "I get a chance to present my side in a couple weeks." Adams declined further comment. The chief has not faced any disciplinary suspension by the town since his hiring four years ago, according to a personnel file obtained by the Citizen Times through an Aug. 5 public records request. He has received seven raises, including cost of living adjustments, and now has an annual salary of $103,488. The Citizen Times requested Blue Ridge provide information on pay that Adams and other BLET instructors received. Waynesville Town Manager Rob Hites who oversees the police chief and other department leaders declined to comment. Adams is the second top police department official to recently face potential sanctions. On July 22, Brandon Gilmore resigned as assistant chief after an internal investigation into alleged inappropriate sexual conduct and/or harassment involving a subordinate female officer, according to the Mountaineer. In Brevard, Godman did not return calls and messages seeking comment Aug. 5. The Citizen Times requested town officials provide Godman's personnel file. Some information about his background was available in justice standards records. Those showed Godman received law enforcement certification in 1996 from the Henderson County Sheriff's Office. In the following years he worked for the Saluda Police Department and then Henderson County Sheriff's Office as a detention officer and an intermediate deputy. In 2009, he was certified as an officer by the Brevard Police Department. Godman was first certified to teach in 2011 as a general instructor. He later gained certificates to instruct advanced law enforcement, SCAT and detention. In 2020 he was certified as an in-service training coordinator. Those teaching credentials were suspended May 15. In 2013, Brevard gave him its Rising Star award for meeting the town's core values of "transparency, accountability, ethics, professionalism and leadership of the city," according to the Transylvania Times. Responding to the Citizen Times, Brevard Chief Tom Jordan issued a statement praising Godman as "a valued member of the agency and excellent instructor." "I am pleased the commission is performing their due diligence by investigating any issues with programs under their purview," Jordan said. He declined further comment, citing the justice standards ongoing investigation. Joel Burgess has lived in WNC for more than 20 years, covering politics, government and other news. He's written award-winning stories on topics ranging from gerrymandering to police use of force. Got a tip? Contact Burgess at jburgess@citizentimes.com, 828-713-1095 or on Twitter @AVLreporter. Please help support this type of journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times. This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Western NC police chief among trainers suspended; violations, students injured: commission Families who have lost their homes and belongings to wildfires across the U.S. West are resorting to crowdfunding, with hopes of obtaining some relief amid an ongoing crisis. GoFundMe, the worlds biggest crowdfunding platform, reported Monday that hundreds of people, from California to Colorado, have turned to this resource for immediate assistance. GoFundMe users have raised more than $210 million for such relief over the past five years, with the number of wildfire-related fundraisers tripling during that time period, according to the company. The spike in such fundraisers coincides with a growing wildfire threat in the region amid record-breaking heat and drought driven by climate change. In California alone, 14 blazes of 10 acres or more are currently burning, with the particularly brutal Park fire scorching more than 400,000 acres in the northern part of the Golden State. After losing their Paradise home in the 2018 Camp Fire, Kristy and Michael Daneau and their family began to rebuild their life in Cohasset, one related GoFundMe campaign reads. The creator describes how the family took a six hour journey to evacuate from the Park fire-adjacent town of Cohasset to establish temporary housing in Chico with their five dogs. They followed news of the fire, only to learn that once again, their permanent home was destroyed by fire, the campaign adds. In Southern California, where the Borel fire has burned nearly 60,000 acres as part of the SQF Lightning Complex, another campaign describes the destruction of a dream 30-acre mountain ranch in the historic mining town of Havilah, which was destroyed in the flames. The house, outbuildings, animal pens, office building, and many of our animals just perished this weekend in the Borel fire, the campaign states. Aiming to streamline support for victims, GoFundMe has launched a centralized Wildfire Relief Hub, which hosts all verified fundraisers connected to the fires. The company said it had also opened a designated Wildfire Relief Fund, which will deliver cash grants to those directly impacted. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) An international company broke ground on a facility that will bring new jobs to Trotwood. Westrafo America held a ground-breaking ceremony on Monday to celebrate their future plant. Mall at Fairfield Commons adding restaurant, store This will be the companys first plant in North America, and will go in Trotwoods new industrial park located at 6214 Wolf Creek Pike. The plant is expected to create 250 new jobs and generate $12 million in payroll. Many of those jobs will come from people trained in Miami Valley schools like Sinclair Community College. State leaders say this is just another step in Ohio becoming the heart of it all once again. We make the things that people need to live and thrive, said Lt. Gov. Jon Husted. From the food you eat to the cars you drive, the trucks that deliver to the airplanes that fly, the steel, the military base, the cloud, chips. We make all of this and the world depends on us. You cant do Made in America without Made in Ohio.' Westrafo America is an Italy-based manufacturer that makes power and distribution transformers. The new plant will continue Ohios growth in the renewable energy industry. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. What's next for Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear? Door open following veepstakes Vice President Kamala Harris has officially picked a running mate for her presidential campaign, and it's not Gov. Andy Beshear. But does that mean he's firmly planted in Kentucky? Well ... The past few weeks have made it clear Beshear is looking ahead at his political future, and the second-term governor could still have a shot in Washington, D.C. whether through a cabinet position or a different national seat. "Eventually, Kamala Harris is going to have to think about putting together an administration, and it could be that he's signaling interest in joining the team in some other way," said Stephen Voss, a University of Kentucky political science professor. Here's a look at what's next for Beshear and his political career: How has Beshear built his national reputation? Over the past couple of weeks, Beshear has made multiple national media appearances and visits to other states. He gave the keynote speech at the Iowa Democratic Partys Liberty & Justice Celebration and rallied in Georgia for Harris' campaign with Hadley Duvall, a Kentucky abortion-rights advocate who appeared in an ad for President Joe Biden. Beshear will likely continue to campaign for Harris and her reported running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. He's also slated to the attend the Democratic National Convention in Chicago from Aug. 19 22. Even prior to the speculation surrounding the Democrats vice presidential pick reaching fever pitch in July, Beshear had started taking steps to build his national profile. That included founding his national political action committee called In This Together, which aims at helping elect Democrats in red and purple states. What else could Beshear run for? Because of Kentuckys term limits, Beshear will not be able to run for governor again when his term ends in 2027. That means he could start soon laying the groundwork for other campaigns. If U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell decides not to run again, Democratic campaign manager Danny Briscoe said Beshear could consider a 2026 run for senate. However, Beshear does not want to run for that role, said his political strategist Eric Hyers. Asked what Beshear will do when his term ends in 2028, Hyers said, "I'm not sure he's got those plans yet." Reach reporter Hannah Pinski at @hpinski@courier-journal.com or follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @hannahpinski. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: What's next for Gov. Andy Beshear? Door open following veepstakes Immigration has become a leading issue in the 2024 election, especially for Republicans, and the gubernatorial race in North Carolina is no exception. Highlighting its importance, the first bullet point in the Republican Partys platform is to "SEAL THE BORDER, AND STOP THE MIGRANT INVASION and the second is to CARRY OUT THE LARGEST DEPORTATION OPERATION IN AMERICAN HISTORY. Immigration has also taken the spotlight in North Carolina politics. During the General Assemblys short session, the legislature took up House Bill 10, a bill requiring sheriffs to comply with ICE detainers, although it didnt become law, and a citizens-only voting amendment that will appear on the ballot this November. Taking a page from national Republicans, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, the Republican candidate for North Carolina governor, has centered many of his attacks on his Democratic competitor Josh Stein over immigration. Stein, the current attorney general, has focused less on immigration particulars and more on law enforcement and safety in the state in general. Heres where the candidates for governor stand on the issue. Mark Robinson, Republican Robinsons campaign has largely echoed the national Republicans stance on immigration, and the topic has become a key sticking point for targeting his opponent. An ad released by the Republican Governors Association slams Stein calling him soft on crime. Another ad claimed Stein doesnt support law enforcement and that he doesnt believe in sanctuary cities. The current lieutenant governor took a firm stance on HB 10, saying it would make North Carolina safer. I was pleased to learn that the North Carolina Senate has passed House Bill 10, which will crack down on sanctuary cities by requiring our states sheriffs to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials to keep dangerous criminal aliens whove illegally entered our country through Joe Bidens open border off our streets, Robinson posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, in May adding that he would sign into law the bill if he were governor. Robinson has been outspoken about immigration on social media. Since President Biden dropped out of the race and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, many of Robinsons jabs focus on drawing a connection between Stein and Harris, whom the Republican Party is calling a border czar, a label and job she was never actually given by Biden. When it comes to sanctuary cities, higher prices, and radical energy policies, @JoshStein_ and Kamala Harris are one and the same, Robinson posted on X. Under the Harris-Stein agenda, it would get even worse for North Carolina families." Josh Stein, Democrat Stein has focused many of his efforts as attorney general on addressing the fentanyl crisis. He called on Congress to contribute millions for fentanyl scanners at the border and leads a Fentanyl Task Force within the North Carolina Department of Justice. These efforts, his campaign says, are about making North Carolinians safer. He supports the bipartisan border security deal that went before U.S. Congress this year, his campaign said, and he has worked to prosecute violent criminals and address the rape kit backlog. In addition to prosecuting drug traffickers, were also working on a bi-partisan basis to tackle the fentanyl crisis, Stein writes on his campaign website. Stein also wants to address the police officer shortage by providing bonus incentives, and he is endorsed by more than 15 sheriffs. Unlike Robinson, Stein did not take a solid stance on the bill requiring sheriffs to cooperate with ICE, but he told the News & Observer that border security needs to be strengthened and that immigrants should be invited into the country if entering. Stein, acting as the top cop in the state, has also advocated for DACA, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. Dreamers should be able to study, work, and contribute to our communities without fear of deportation a right that the U.S. Supreme Court has reaffirmed, Stein said in a 2023 press release. Ill continue to fight to protect Dreamers and their right to stay in the United States. More: NC Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson's wife's nonprofit faces financial repercussions More: Will Mark Robinson be governor? Here's what happens if Roy Cooper is Kamala Harris' VP pick Sarah Gleason is the North Carolina Election Reporting Fellow for Gannett. This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: NC governor race: Where Josh Stein, Mark Robinson stand on immigration Now that Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate in the 2024 presidential election, his progressive policy record is in the spotlight as the Trump campaign casts him as a radical leftist. Known as a champion of progressivism, Walzs stances on several critical issuesincluding abortion, climate change, and immigrationoffer a potential preview of how a Harris-Walz Administration might approach challenging policy questions. As governor of Minnesota, he pushed an ambitious agenda that included free school meals, tax cuts for the middle class, and goals for tackling climate change. His selection was celebrated by top progressives, including Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York. However, Walz is relatively unknown on the national stage. An NPR/PBS/Marist poll released Tuesday found 71% of U.S. adults have never heard of the midwestern governor or are unsure how to rate him. For those just beginning to learn about Walz, here is a guide to where he stands on some key issues. Abortion Walz has spoken out in support of abortion rightsAbortion is health care, he said on CNN in Marchand signed several pieces of legislation protecting reproductive rights. As governor, he signed a bill that enshrined the right to abortion into the states statutes, making Minnesota the first state legislature to codify protections into law in 2023 after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade months earlier. The bill also included protections for other reproductive health care, including contraception and fertility treatments. Abortion was already protected in the state by a 1995 Minnesota supreme court decision, but the new law was meant to safeguard against future courts potentially overturning that ruling. Today, we are delivering on our promise to put up a firewall against efforts to reverse reproductive freedom, Walz said in a press release after signing the bill. Here in Minnesota, your access to reproductive health care and your freedom to make your own health care decisions are preserved and protected. Also in 2023, Walz signed a bill that shields patients traveling to Minnesota for abortion careand the medical providers who serve themfrom legal attacks and criminal penalties other states that restrict access might try to levy against them. That same day, he also signed a bill that bans the practice of conversion therapy and another that protects people seeking or providing gender-affirming health care in Minnesota. Climate change In recent years, Walz has become one of the countrys most skillful advocates for tackling climate change. His administration is aiming to move Minnesota to 100% clean energy by 2040, and he signed legislation in 2023 that encourages utilities to establish renewable energy facilities in communities that used to have fossil-fuel-generating plants. In recent months, he has signed a bill that will shorten and streamline the process for permitting renewable energy projects and he has announced a $200 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to cut climate pollution from Minnesota food systems. Read More: Tim Walz Knows How to Talk About Climate Change As I sign this legislation, communities from one end of our state to the other are looking at months of rebuilding after an extreme weather event exacerbated by climate change. This is a measure that will help protect our environment and get the clean energy projects that are going to help fight climate change in motion, Walz said in a June press release about the bill that streamlines the permitting process. Together were taking meaningful steps to combat climate change. U.S.-Mexico border Hailing from a northern state, Walz has not been a major voice in U.S.-Mexico border policy discussions. However, his past record on immigration issues suggests that he is likely to push for reform that offers a pathway to citizenship for some undocumented migrants. As Minnesotas governor, he signed bills that provided health insurance coverage regardless of immigration status and made undocumented immigrants eligible for state drivers licenses. He also signed a bill that allowed the states nearly 81,000 undocumented immigrants to receive free tuition at a state university. In 2021 he urged Democratic leaders in Congress to prioritize creating a pathway to citizenship for some undocumented immigrants, including Dreamers brought to the U.S. as children, essential workers, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders, and their families. And although he voted for stricter screenings for Syrian and Iraqi refugees while serving in Congress as a House member from Minnesota, as governor he later authorized the state government to consent to refugee resettlement: The inn is not full in Minnesota, he said in 2019. Read More: How Kamala Harris Got To Yes on Tim Walz Walz has offered a preview of how hell campaign on border issues, making several television appearances where he aligns himself with Harris in trying to flip the script on immigration by criticizing former President Donald Trump. Theres no reason someone seeking asylum, which we will always be a guiding light for, should have to wait seven years to have that adjudicated, Walz told CNN on July 30, signaling his support for a failed bipartisan border funding bill negotiated in the Senate that would have allowed migrants to be placed in a supervision program and have their asylum case decided within 90 days. Trump urged House Republicans to kill the deal in early 2024. He's not interested in solving the problem, Walz added. Hes also criticized Trumps pledge to finish construction of a wall along the southern border, claiming that it wont curb the rise in illegal border crossings: I always say, let me know how high it is. If it's 25 feet, then I'll invest in the 30-foot ladder factory, Walz told CNN. That's not how you stop this. You stop this using electronics, you stop it using more border control agents, and you stop it by having a legal system that allows for that tradition of allowing folks to come here, just like my relatives did to come here, be able to work and establish the American dream. Israel-Gaza Walz has not spoken extensively about the Israel-Gaza conflict, though his stance appears broadly aligned with the Biden-Harris Administration: The situation in Gaza is intolerable, Walz told CNN in March. And I think trying to find a solution, a lasting two-state solution, certainly the President's move towards humanitarian aid and asking us to get to a ceasefire While in Congress, Walz supported pro-Israel resolutions, including voting to condemn a United Nations resolution affirming that Israeli settlements in the West Bank are illegal. He also traveled to Israel as part of a diplomatic trip to the Middle East in 2009 and met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Democratic Majority for Israel, an advocacy group that supports pro-Israel policies, praised the Walz pick shortly after the announcement. Walz condemned Hamas following its Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel during which 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 taken hostage. He also supported a deal to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza as Israel launched a devastating assault on the region after Oct. 7. The vast majority of Palestinians are not Hamas, and Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people, he wrote on social media on Oct. 20. We cannot let terrorists like Hamas win. Several progressive Democrats who have been critical of Israel have also come out in support of Walz as Harris running mate. Gun control Walzs stance on gun control has changed over the years. A gun owner and supporter of the Second Amendment, Walz had an A rating from the National Rifle Association (NRA) while in Congressbut that later turned into an F. During his first campaign for governor in 2018, he began to champion more gun-control measures. After a gunman opened fire in 2018 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida and killed 17 people, Walz publicly expressed support for an assault weapons ban. I had an A rating from the NRA. Now I get straight Fs. And I sleep just fine, he said in a post on X on July 27. In 2023, he signed several gun-control measures into law, expanding universal background checks to private party transfers of pistols and semiautomatic weapons, as well as creating a red flag law that allows a family member, guardian, city or county attorney, or police chief to intervene and ask a court to take weapons away from someone if theyre at high risk of hurting themselves or others. As a veteran, gun-owner, hunter, and dad, I know basic gun safety isnt a threat to the Second Amendmentits about keeping our kids safe, Walz said in a press release at the time. Theres no place for weapons of war in our schools, churches, banks, or anywhere else people are just trying to live their lives. Economy As governor, Walz advocated for a historically progressive overhaul of Minnesotas economy, passing a series of reforms that some progressives hope could be a model for the federal government if Democrats win control of the House and Senate. Walz pushed for pro-labor legislation, signing a bill into law last year that established statewide sick and medical leave, banned non-compete agreements, and added worker safety requirements. The United Auto Workers (UAW), which has endorsed Harris and is one of the nations largest union groups, celebrated Harris decision to name Walz as her running mate: "Tim Walz doesn't just talk the talk, he walks the walk," the UAW wrote on social media. "From delivering for working-class Americans to standing with the UAW on our picket line last year, we know which side he's on." As governor, Walz also signed the Local Jobs and Projects Plan, which gave roughly $1.9 billion to support construction and renovation projects, including affordable housing projects. His administration provided tax cuts to many Minnesota residents, while raising taxes on some corporations and high earners. In addition, he provided rebates known as Walz checks for low- and middle-income families, which are worth up to $1,300 in some cases, and he championed a statewide child tax credit of up to $1,750 per child. Paid leave, free school meals, and other issues Walz has taken a progressive stance on several family issues. In 2023, he signed a bill that provides paid family and medical leave into law, saying at the time that the move is ensuring Minnesotans no longer have to make the choice between a paycheck and taking time off to care for a new baby or a sick family member. The program, which will start in 2026, will allow workers up to 12 weeks a year off with partial pay to take care of a newborn baby or a sick relative, and up to 12 weeks to recover if they themselves are seriously ill. A former teacher, Walz has also supported funding for a program that provides free school meals to children. In 2023, Walz signed into law the North Star Promise Scholarship Program to provide public higher education in Minnesota tuition-free for eligible low-income students. Walz has also signed legislation legalizing recreational marijuana and establishing a board that would expunge or resentence lower-level cannabis convictions. Write to Nik Popli at nik.popli@time.com. Venezuelans protest against President Nicolas Maduros government in Valencia, Carabobo state, Venezuela on July 29, 2024, a day after the Venezuelan presidential election. Credit - Juan Carlos HernandezAFP/Getty Images The day after Venezuelas hotly-anticipated July 28 presidential election, the National Electoral Council walked an implausible tightrope. It declared that it could not provide the world with the actual results of the vote given that Venezuela has been subjected to a foreign terrorist cyber-attack. Yet somehow it conclusively and irrevocably declared the autocratic Nicolas Maduro as the winner with 51.2% of the vote over opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutias 44.2%. The opposition was ready to prevent a stolen election. Beyond accusing the government of committing a massive fraud, it announced that it had gathered 73.2% of the receipts printed by Venezuelas electronic voting machines. They took photos of each one of these tally sheetscompiled by their supporters at most of the countrys polling stationsand published them on a website launched a day after the vote. By its calculations, Gonzalez won with a stunning two-thirds majority. As tensions boil over in Venezuela, control of the narrative and the moral high ground over the past week has been essential. While the opposition makes its case to the country and the world that it was robbed of a landslide victory, the government is arguing that its own triumph has been obfuscated by a U.S.-led fascist coalition. The latter is a case that no one should take seriously. A demonstrator holds a list of total votes counted by a voting machine, during a rally with opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia in Caracas, Venezuela, on July 30, 2024. Alejandro CegarraThe New York Times/Redux Venezuelas democracy has long been in crisis. What began as a broadly popular political movement under the socialist President Hugo Chavez in 1999 gradually slid into autocracy. Venezuelas oil-dependent economy was unable to keep up with the generous social programs that made Chavismo popular, especially after the 2007 expropriations of foreign oil companies spooked them into leaving. A major oil price slump in 2014 caused the petrostates economy to go into freefall and Maduro, who took office in 2013, increasingly shifted from redistribution to repression to hold on to power. The opposition was under no illusions that this election would be free or fair. But they formed a coalition of anti-Chavista parties called the Democratic Unitary Platform and ran a campaign that expressed trust that the ballot box would vindicate themwhile planning for the worst. Following outrage over the official result, the Maduro government has doubled down on the baseless claim that Venezuelan democracy is under siege by shadowy foreign interventionists. (Memories of a U.S.-linked coup attempt in 2002 and outrage over ongoing U.S. sanctions remain a potent motivator among Chavistas.) The government has also cracked down on protests, with dozens killed and thousands arrested in the past week. Footage of opposition leaders being detained by security forces has also proliferated online. People take care of a protester affected by tear gas thrown by police during demonstrations against the official election results declaring President Maduros reelection, in Caracas, Venezuela, July 29, 2024. Cristian HernandezAP How will this all unfold? Maduro seems keen to be seen going through the motions of the democratic processsuch as handing over an official complaint to the government-controlled courts to weigh in on the election result. But he has a habit of overplaying his hand. During the campaign, his government banned Maria Corina Machado, the oppositions first candidate, from running. This made her a political martyr and further consolidated the movement against his regime. Efforts to interrupt opposition campaign events or close the border to prevent the Venezuelan diasporawhich at 7.7 million is the regions largest exodus everfrom coming back to vote only backfired. Maduro is also taking steps to prevent his security forces from defecting. This seems unlikely thanks to the deep embedding of intelligence forces from Cuba, Venezuelas closest international ally, within the military. Yet videos circulating on social media suggest that some police and military units may already be disobeying orders to repress the mass protests across the country. Demonstrators confront riot police during a protest against Venezuelan President Maduros government in Puerto La Cruz, Anzoategui state, Venezuela on July 29, 2024. Carlos LandaetaAFP/Getty Images The opposition continues to ask Venezuelans to keep calm, and their preparation for a stolen vote is producing results. The U.S. has come out in support of Gonzalez, calling him the election winner. The E.U., for its part, says it does not recognize Maduros win and is demanding independent verification. Even friendlier Latin American governments like Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico are pressuring him to set the record straight. Venezuela has powerful international allies like Russia and China but Maduro looks increasingly alone. An emboldened Machado and Gonzalez have also come out of hiding, after officials called for their arrest, to hold a massive protest in Caracas. The countrys top prosecutor has announced a criminal probe after they called on the army to abandon their support for Maduro, but the two seem undeterred. The upshot in Venezuela remains uncertain. But the momentous past few days have been a long time in the making. Contact us at letters@time.com. Racially charged incidents that go video-viral can draw attention far beyond inflammatory one-on-one posts, and direct messages online. Hate groups may jump into "media storms," to ride the whirlwind for propaganda delivery, said Jeff Tischauser, senior research analyst with the Southern Poverty Law Center's Intelligence Project. A poster from white-supremacist group Patriot Front was seen Aug. 1 in downtown Tuscaloosa, placed on a metal box at the intersection of Jack Warner Parkway with Greensboro Avenue, near the Homewood Suites. It was on city property, so alerted officials had it removed. Though the First Amendment protects the contents of such flyers, anyone caught vandalizing property could be prosecuted for criminal mischief, and potentially for trespassing. More: Nick's restaurant manager apologizes for using racial slur Though there's no direct indication, it's possible the poster was placed to garner attention following the Nick's Original Filet House incident, Tischauser said, caught on video July 26, and seen by millions worldwide. "The video was definitely viral enough to get on my radar, several times," he said. It involved a confrontation over alleged racist language used by Nick's management, directed to a white man who had been sitting and talking with Black friends. Viewed millions of times on TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, X and other sites, the video (and edited, commented-on variations) drew enough negative responses to at least temporarily shut down NIck's presence on sites including Yelp and Tripadvisor. Calls for boycotts and shutdowns arose, and protestors have been seen out front of the long-lived, much-loved steakhouse for several days. City Council members and others have spoken publicly about the confrontation. The restaurant's founder, Nick Del Gatto, sold the business in 1974, and died in 2003 at age 94. Due to tradition, the place also known as Nick's in the Sticks still bears his name, but no members of the Del Gatto family are connected with current ownership or management. The manager seen on the video, Jack Moltz, apologized publicly July 31 on WVUA-TV. Hunter Sartain, the white man who confronted Moltz, wrote a public post on Facebook urging reconciliation. Many of the video's viewers have praised Sartain for standing up and doing the right thing, while others wondered why his wasn't the accepted, standard behavior. The Tuscaloosa Branch NAACP acknowledged Moltz's apology but the group has called for further actions to back up his words. Though the preponderant majority have spoken out that management acted poorly, and that the customers were justly aggrieved, there has been some small bounce-back. Protestors show signs across from Nick's Original Filet House (aka Nick's in the Sticks) in Tuscaloosa Tuesday after an alleged instance of racism at the restaurant was posted to social media. "The leaders of Patriot Front, for all their faults, they understand how to generate media attention, and how to insert themselves in a larger media storm," Tischauser said. Their promotional material typically uses broadly patriotic-seeming slogans as cover for symbols of fascism, and antisemitic, racist invective found in internal communications. The Tuscaloosa flyer, hued in red, white and blue, read American Spirit up top, then European Blood on the bottom. "That flyer is part of a pattern," Tischauser said. It's a relatively small group within the alt-right, split off from the white supremacist, neo-Nazi, neo-fascist Vanguard America, a member of the larger Nationalist Front. According to internal documents, Patriot Front had about 200 members as of 2021. In Alabama, there are roughly 10 or 12 who claim membership. Most of its "theatrical rhetoric," which has involved flyers, hacked road signs, smoke bombs ignited at demonstrations, and other vandalism, has been localized in Birmingham and Huntsville, on the Alabama map, Tischauser said. Far as he knows, this was the Patriot Front's first incursion into Tuscaloosa. Though small, the group is busy. According to the Anti-Defamation League, it accounted for 82% of racist and other hate propaganda reported in the U.S. in 2021, with 3,992 incidents, found in each of the contiguous 48 states. Members have been arrested numerous times for vandalism, hate crime, conspiracy to riot and other violations. How they differ from other groups, such as the outwardly violent Proud Boys, is by trying to present themselves as orderly and disciplined, Tischauser said. However, within their ranks are numerous felons, with convictions for violence, domestic and otherwise, for child pornography, and other crimes. "Their goal is very different from the Proud Boys, who are just there to beat people up," Tischausaer said. "But it's a combustible situation when you put young men, some with histories of violence, in public confrontations." The group's founder, Texan Thomas Rosseau, was a leader of Vanguard and the Unite the Right Rally in 2017, when a white nationalist drove his car into a crowd of counter-protesters, killing Heather Heyer, and injuring 19 others. Rosseau created the Patriot Front in the wake of the outcry; most of its members are former Vanguard. "Patriot Front should be taken more seriously than not," Tischauser said. "(Members) say this country is irredeemably corrupted by Jewish influence," and they imagine themselves as revolutionaries, ridding the country of tyrannical systems. Though they're not as outwardly violent as Proud Boys or others, Patriot Front members do train to fight, with sparring sessions, preparing to meet counter-protesters in the streets. "I'm genuinely worried something bigger than an assault may occur," Tischauser said, as rhetoric heats up. To report hate speech or hate crime, the U.S. government suggests first calling local police, or 911. Tuscaloosa also has its 311 system for non-emergencies, open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, by calling 205-248-5311 or 311 within city limits. Another potential follow-up would be to the FBI, at www.tips.fbi.gov/home, or by calling 800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), or the northern Alabama field office in Birmingham, at 205-326-6166. The SPLC also has a form to help document hate crimes, at www.splcenter.org/reporthate. Contact The Anti-Defamation League at www.adl.org/report-incident. Southern Poverty Law Center Tischauser's academic studies involved first left-wing, then right-wing coalitions, which led to his employment with the SPLC, a non-profit legal advocacy organization specializing in civil rights and public interest litigation. It was founded in 1971 as a law firm, then expanded its scope by adding Julian Bond as president. In 1981, the SPLC began its Klanwatch, now Hatewatch, to monitor the KKK and other hate groups, and was an early proponent of filing suits against such extremist group's activities. The SPLC's projects and off-shoots include Hopewatch, honoring the work of social justice advocates; the Montgomery Civil Rights Memorial, designed by Maya Lin, architect of the Vietnam memorial walls in Washington, D.C.; the Teaching Tolerance project; the Intelligence Project, which monitors extremists' groups; and more. It was the SPLC that helped bankrupt Tuscaloosa-headquartered United Klans of America, in the wake of the 1981 Mobile, Alabama, murder of 19-year-old Michael Donald. Out walking to pick up cigarettes, Donald was abducted by UKA/KKK members, beaten, strangled, and had this throat cut, all before being hanged from a tree on Herndon Avenue, between Springhill Avenue and Old Shell Road. In 2006, the city of Mobile renamed it Michael Donald Avenue. One of the murderers, Henry Hays, was executed by electric chair in 1997. Another, James Knowles, is serving life in prison, having testifed against Hays. At least two others were involved, one of whom is also serving life; the fourth died before his trial could be completed. Donald's mother, Beulah Mae Donald, brought a civil suit for wrongful death, and backed by the SPLC, won $7 million in damages against the UKA, considered the most violent of KKK groups. The UKA was also linked to the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham, killing four young girls, among others. The UKA's Tuscaloosa-based leader, Robert Shelton, had to sell off all property to pay the sum. The Donald case helped set a precedent for bringing wrongful-death suits against racist hate groups. Reach Mark Hughes Cobb at mark.cobb@tuscaloosanews.com. This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Hate group Patriot Front's flyer removed from Tuscaloosa city property Voters in Leon County won't have the benefit of seeing a "D" or "R" next to the names of most of the candidates on Aug. 20 primary election ballots. That's because the contests for City Commission, County Commission, School Board and county judge are all nonpartisan. However, the local parties haven't exactly taken a hands-off approach in the primary. The Leon County Republican Party and even the governor is backing School Board member Laurie Lawson Cox in her re-election bid, while the Leon County Democratic Party is solidly behind her challenger, Jeremy Rogers. Meanwhile, City Commission candidate Rudy Ferguson accused the local Democratic Party of taking sides in his race against City Commissioner Jack Porter. Only two of the 20 candidates for state and local office in the primary actually have no party affiliation. The rest belong to either the Democratic or Republican parties. And while a number of the candidates have belonged to only one political party since first registering to vote, others have switched their allegiances at least once and in some cases numerous times, according to Supervisor of Elections records. Below is a list of the candidates and their political party histories. It does not include information from out of state and may not include original registration dates for those who moved before the Florida Voter Registration System went statewide in 2006. It also may not capture all party changes that happened outside Leon County. Tallahassee Democrat, WFSU, League of Women Voters hold local candidate forums for 2024 primary. Here's how to watch. The ultimate Leon County, Tallahassee voter's guide to the 2024 primary election. Study up to vote with confidence Missed our voters guide to the Tallahassee primary? Subscribers can find the e-edition here Without further ado, here is our partisan guide to non-partisan elections Leon County property appraiser Akin Akinyemi (incumbent): First registered as a Democrat on Feb. 7, 1996. Kenneth "Ken" Preston: Registered Oct. 28, 1986 as a Democrat; switched to Republican on June 22, 1993; changed to Democrat on April 20, 2016; became a Republican on April 10, 2019; switched to Democrat on Feb. 28, 2022. Leon County superintendent of schools Rocky Hanna (incumbent): First registered on Feb. 27, 1990 as a Democrat. (He ran as an NPA candidate in 2016 and 2020 but remained a Democrat.) Genleah Star Swain: Registered Feb. 9, 2000, as NPA; switched to Democrat on Sept. 18, 2022. Leon County Judge Seat 4 Cydnee Brown: First registered May 10, 2011, as a Democrat. Robert Churchill: First registered May 19, 1998, as a Democrat. switched to Republican on March 4, 2002; changed to Democrat on June 19, 2002; switched to NPA on March 11, 2010; switched to Republican on July 18, 2019; became NPA on March 5, 2021. LaShawn Riggans: First registered on Sept. 14, 2006 as a Democrat; switched to Republican on Feb. 24, 2011; became a Democrat on Nov. 23, 2020. Leon County School Board District 2 Rosanne Wood (incumbent): Registered June 5, 1978, as a Democrat. Daniel Zeruto: Registered June 1, 1995, as a Republican. Leon County School Board District 4 Laurie Lawson Cox (incumbent): Registered Aug. 1, 1990, as a Democrat; became a Republican on Jan. 26, 1996; changed back to Democrat on April 10, 2008; switched back to Republican on July 22, 2008. Jeremy Rogers: Registered March 26, 2007, as a Democrat. Tallahassee City Commission Seat 1 Louis Dilbert: Registered June 22, 1998, as a Democrat. Rudolph "Rudy" Ferguson Sr.: Registered Oct. 5, 1992, as a member of the Independent Party; became a Democrat on March 15, 2000. Jacqueline "Jack" Porter (incumbent): Registered Oct. 2, 2014 as a Democrat. Tallahassee City Commission Seat 2 Dorothy "Dot" Inman-Johnson: Registered June 5, 1975, as a Democrat. Donna Nyack: Registered Dec. 28, 2023, as a Republican. Curtis Richardson (incumbent): Registered Sept. 28, 1976, as a Democrat. Bernard Stevens Jr.: Registered July 13, 2006, as a Democrat; switched to NPA on May 22, 2023. State Senate District 3 Kimblin NeSmith: Registered May 25, 2006, as a Republican; switched to NPA on Oct. 24, 2006; changed to Republican on Jan. 15, 2008; changed to NPA on Oct. 25, 2010; switched to Republican on Jan. 30, 2012; changed to NPA on Oct. 16, 2012; switched to Republican on Aug. 17, 2014; changed to NPA on Oct. 25, 2014; switched to Republican on March 1, 2016; moved to NPA on June 13, 2016; changed to Democrat on Dec. 12, 2016. Daryl Parks: Registered Oct. 6, 1987, as a Democrat. CORRECTION: An earlier version of this guide had the incorrect year that Robert Churchill became an NPA. Contact Jeff Burlew at jburlew@tallahassee.com or 850-599-2180. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Partisan guide to Tallahassee 2024 primary election An Arizona grand jury expressed "interest" in charging former President Donald Trump and other Republican state lawmakers as part of its investigation of efforts to overturn the 2020 election result, new court filings reveal. But it was Democratic Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes' office that "requested" the jurors not indict the former president or those lawmakers, the document says. Ultimately the grand jury charged 18 people not Trump in April with nine felonies alleging they attempted to thwart the will of Arizona voters who narrowly elected President Joe Biden nearly four years ago. Those defendants include 11 Republicans who falsely claimed on documents sent to Congress that Trump won, and seven aides to the former president who were allegedly involved in the plot in states to create bogus slates of electors. Politics: Indicted Trump attorney Jenna Ellis to help Arizona prosecutors in fake electors case The latest court filing, the state's response to several defendants' motions to dismiss the high-profile criminal case, reveals for the first time inner workings of the grand jury and provides insight as to the approach of the Attorney General's Office. Of four states that have filed criminal charges related to the scheme, Arizona's is among the broadest in that it yielded charges against Trump allies. At least seven of the defendants have filed motions to dismiss the case under an Arizona law that allows for quick dismissals if a defendant can prove the case was substantially motivated by retaliation because they exercised a constitutional right, like freedom of speech. The response filed by Mayes' office reveals that jurors heard 18 days of testimony before reaching their decision on whom to charge. The filing signed by Criminal Division Chief Nick Klingerman says that prosecutors repeatedly told grand jurors it was their decision who to indict, and they could indict no one. It seeks to back up that argument by revealing prosecutors suggested Trump and others not face charges. Arizona grand jury considered charging Trump "Far from being politically biased, the Attorney Generals Office, despite the Grand Jurys interest in doing so, asked the Grand Jury to consider not indicting Donald Trump," the response says. The filing says the state also asked jurors not to indict many others, including Arizona Republicans who sent a letter in support of the false electors and an attorney for the Republican Party of Arizona. The attorney general's request related to Trump came after grand jurors discussed a federal Department of Justice policy. Prosecutors also showed the jury a PowerPoint presentation about the policy, which sets a framework for when federal prosecutors should pursue charges that could also be brought by state governments. The policy says that "to insure the most efficient use of law enforcement resources, whenever a matter involves overlapping federal and state jurisdiction, federal prosecutors should, as soon as possible, consult with their state counterparts" to determine a "single forum" where to proceed. At the time the jurors were meeting in secret in Arizona, Trump had already been indicted by a federal grand jury in an alleged conspiracy to steal the 2020 election. The federal case may be narrowed because of a broad U.S. Supreme Court ruling in July that said presidents have immunity for official acts. A judge in Washington, D.C., now has to determine which of Trump's actions were unofficial, if any, and can be prosecuted. Weeks later, Trump was also charged by a county prosecutor in Georgia in a case that also netted charges against so-called fake electors there. The response filed by Mayes' office quotes an unnamed Arizona prosecutor telling the grand jury about that federal policy: "When you considerand then I mentioned this beforeindicting somebody, even the president, isis a big dealeven if I was to dismiss it because I dont know if I have all the evidence to prosecute it at this moment. I think you should weigh this policy heavily. And that would bethat is why I have not recommended that in the draft indictment, despite clear indications from you all that theres an interest in pursuing a charge against him." A spokesperson for Mayes declined to comment further on why the office did not want to pursue criminal charges against Trump. Trump's 2024 campaign representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Jurors considered charges against GOP lawmakers In another effort to turn the 2020 election results in Trump's favor, 30 Arizona Republican lawmakers and lawmakers-elect asked then-Vice President Mike Pence to give Arizona's electoral votes to Trump, or to invalidate the votes and delay their counting pending an audit. They made that request in a December 2020 letter. Sen. Anthony Kern, of Glendale, and Sen. Jake Hoffman, of Queen Creek, who are charged in the criminal case, signed the letter. Hoffman was a lawmaker-elect. The letter was titled as a joint Resolution of the legislature, signed by the lawmakers and mailed to Congress as legitimate, according to the court document filed Monday. But the letter was not a Resolution because the legislature was not in session, prosecutors said. When that information came through to the grand jury in the criminal case, the group wanted to charge the lawmakers, according to Monday's filing. Prosecutors explained the political process to them in response and told them: I would be very cautious finding an intent to fraud with all 30 members that signed that. Monday's filing provides no additional details about why the state requested the grand jury not charge the sitting and recently elected lawmakers. But prosecutors told the group the decision was ultimately up to them. It's my recommendation still is for all those other ones that you have not heard evidence on, prosecutors told the grand jury. I would say give them the benefit of the doubt at this point. The Arizona case hit a milestone Monday when one defendant agreed to cooperate with prosecutors. The charges against Jenna Ellis, a former lawyer for Trump, were dropped after she agreed to testify for prosecutors in the case, Mayes announced Monday. The remaining 17 defendants have pleaded not guilty to charges including conspiracy, forgery and fraud. The pending defense motions to dismiss and other matters, including scheduling, are expected to be considered in a hearing later this month. Stacey Barchenger is a politics reporter for The Republic. Reach her at stacey.barchenger@arizonarepublic.com. Elena Santa Cruz is a justice reporter for The Republic. Reach her at elena.santacruz@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona fake electors: Why Kris Mayes didn't want to indict Trump Former President Donald Trump at an Atlanta rally on Saturday congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin on "another great deal" following the largest prisoner exchange between the U.S. and Moscow since the Cold War. The six-nation deal brought home 24 imprisoned abroad including 16 previously detained in Russia, in exchange for eight Russian prisoners held in the U.S., Germany, Norway, Slovenia and Poland. In an address Thursday, President Joe Biden called the agreement "a feat of diplomacy," thanking the nations involved and Turkey, which provided logistical support for the swap. Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, hit the deal during a rally on Saturday. He told a crowd of supporters that the agreement led to the release of "some of the greatest killers in the world. Vadim Krasikov, released from Germany, was convicted of a 2019 murder of a former Chechen militant in a Berlin park. Id like to congratulate Vladimir Putin for having made yet another great deal," Trump said Saturday. We got our people back, but boy we make some horrible, horrible deals. Its nice to say we got em back, but does that set a bad precedent?" Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was among the high-profile Americans returned in the swap. Earlier this year, Trump said Putin would agree to release Gershkovich "for me, but not for anyone else." The former president has repeatedly said that he could have brought the hostages home without giving Russia anything in exchange. When Biden was asked to respond to Trump's claims Thursday, he responded with a grin, "Why didn't he do it when he was president?" U.S. President Joe Biden looks on as Evan Gershkovich who was released from detention in Russia, is greeted by his mother Ella Milman, upon his arrival at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, U.S., August 1, 2024. REUTERS/Kevin Mohatt Trump also directly congratulated Putin when he claimed victory in Russia's 2018 presidential election. The timing of their phone call drew criticism as the Kremlin had just been accused of launching a poison-gas assassination attempt on British soil and was facing sanctions from the White House in response to Russian interference in U.S. elections. An American president does not lead the free world by congratulating dictators on winning sham elections," Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., said in a statement at the time. During his Atlanta rally, Trump also attacked Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, criticizing the Republican for not helping his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election in the Peach State. "Hes a bad guy," Trump said. "Hes a disloyal guy and hes a very average governor." He also attacked Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, another Republican who resisted Trump's efforts to overturn his 2020 loss, adding that in his opinion, they want us to lose." Trump's criticism of the Republican leaders is notable as Georgia is one of few battleground states that are likely to decide the outcome of the presidential election in November. Rachel Barber is a 2024 election fellow at USA TODAY, focusing on politics and education. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter, at @rachelbarber_ This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump congratulates Vladimir Putin after prisoner swap In early July, a dairy farmworker in Colorado tested positive for H5N1, the current strain of avian flu thats ripping through dairy cows. It marked the fourth human case contracted on a dairy farm; a worker tested positive in Texas in April, and then two others in Michigan. While the virus has yet to be found spreading among the general public, its clear that the dairy industrys workforce is very much at risk of infection. And each time a new person gets sick, its a chance for the virus to mutate, allowing it to potentially spread beyond the agricultural workforce. Yet there is effectively no federal agency with the power to mandate protections to keep more workers from getting sick. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has no authority to impose safety measures on farming operations unless it declares a public health emergency, which it isnt likely to do unless the virus spreads widely. The U.S. Department of Agriculture only regulates the treatment of animals, not of workers. The obvious federal body to tackle this problem is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which is responsible for preventing American workers from getting sick or hurt on the job. But OSHA cant touch nearly all dairy farms because of their small size. OSHAs lack of regulatory authority on smaller farms dates to 1976, when a rider was attached to an appropriations bill in Congress that barred the agency from using federal funds to enforce regulations on farms with 10 or fewer employees. That leaves 96 percent of animal husbandry operations outside of OSHA oversight. (Poultry plants, where the virus is also infecting workers, typically have more employees and so are subject to OSHAs regulation.) Historically there has been a real aversion politically to regulating farms, said Patty Lovera, a policy adviser at the Campaign for Family Farms and the Environment, a coalition that works against factory farming. Without a federal mandate, dairy farm owners are being asked to voluntarily institute difficult, costly measures, and many are resisting, which is what happens when theres not any threat of enforcement, Lovera said. The USDA has made up to $28,000 available to farms with infected herds to cover the cost of gloves, goggles, and other protective equipment for workers, but few farms have taken the money. Texas, a state with a high number of infected herds and the first with a confirmed human case, began offering protective equipment to farm owners at the beginning of April, but a month later just four had accepted it. Idaho, which also started offering equipment in April, had zero takers by May. In Michigan, many farm owners have shown little interest in outreach from local health authorities to participate in testing and research or to use protective gear. States that operate their own OSHA-approved workplace safety plans arent subject to the small-farm exemption. That includes Iowa, Michigan, and Minnesota, all of which have confirmed dairy cow cases of bird flu, as well as other major dairy states like California, New Mexico, New York, and Washington that so far have no reported cases. These states could use their own money to require protective measures for workers, but so far none appear to be doing so. There is much more that can be done here, said Peg Seminario, who was the director of occupational safety and health at the AFL-CIO until she retired in 2019. She called the situation a slow-moving train wreck that seems to be speeding up. Much is still unknown about the virus, including exactly how its spreading to humans. But a likely route is workers getting splashed by tainted milk in milking parlors, given that milk is where sick cows appear to be shedding a lot of the virus. In such a workplace, the udder is usually at face height, said Meghan Davis, associate professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Thats why the CDC has recommended the use of goggles or face shields at farms with infected animals to protect workers eyes from being exposed to the virus. Its also possible that milk is getting on the hands of workerspossibly from tainted equipment that should be cleaned more oftenwho then touch their eyes or mouths. Testing also is spotty. Workers are only being tested once cows are found to be positive, and even then just a sample of workers are tested on that farm. Workers themselves are likely to be wary of seeking help if they get sick. They typically dont get paid sick leave and have poor access to health insurance. They worry about lost wages or, even worse, any kind of employer retaliation, including losing their jobs, said Alexis Guild, vice president of strategy and programs at Farmworker Justice. They may not even be aware of the risks or symptoms of bird flu, she said. But without more testingand testing not just of people who report symptoms but of the dairy worker population in general, to catch cases where symptoms are not yet presentofficials will remain in the dark about how and how quickly the virus is spreading. More surveillance is absolutely critical, Davis said. That means testing farms that havent reported positive cases, which would help us get a real picture of the extent of the outbreak and help inform mitigation and prevention strategy, she said. Even if dairy workers didnt exist in a regulatory no-mans-land, there are other barriers to requiring protective measures. Given that its the summer, these workplaces are very hot and damp. In a milking chamber, goggles fog up and masks get wet. Workers are already at risk of heat-related illness in their coveralls and boots; requiring them to wear more equipment will make it worse. Guild said that workers have told her that, depending on what equipment theyre given and what training comes with it, it can slow them down, a big impediment given the constant stream of cows that have to be milked. More cleaning of equipment, meanwhile, means disrupting operations in ways that costs owners money in a low-margin industry. Then theres the question of enforcement. Even if OSHA had the authority over dairy farms, it is perpetually underfunded; it has so few investigators that it would take 186 years for them to inspect all of the workplaces the agency oversees. The agricultural workforce is also largely made up of immigrants, some of whom may not have legal status. As such, they are likely to be wary of interacting with government officials or reporting problems. Even dairy workers with secure legal status typically rely on their employers for housing and spend most of their time isolated on the farms, making it difficult to speak out about an employer that isnt following the rules. The farm owners, meanwhile, have good reason to resist testing for the virus, fearing that they would lose money if its discovered that their milk is tainted. The USDA has offered incentives to compensate farmers for the cost of disposing of tainted milk, but those funds are not likely to match what they would have gotten from selling that milk at market value. So far, the workers who have tested positive have had mild symptoms, mostly conjunctivitis and respiratory issues. But the potential for symptoms to become more severe lingers, particularly if it keeps spreading unabated. Were going to have more workers become ill, Davis predicted. The virus is already cropping up in poultry workers in Colorado. For now, the risk to the greater public, other than for those who consume unpasteurized milk, remains low. That could change if the symptoms of those who get infected become more severe or if the virus starts to jump from person to personwhich could already be happening without our knowledge. In June, a USDA survey conducted in Michigan found that shared worker housing was a potential transmission pathway. Making sure the virus doesnt just keep spreading among workers is now the front line of protecting everybody else, Seminario said. This story was produced in collaboration with the Food & Environment Reporting Network, a nonprofit news organization. Organized labor is giving a resounding thumbs-up to Kamala Harriss vice presidential pick. Following Harriss announcement Tuesday that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz would be her running mate, union endorsements poured in one by one. The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, or AFL-CIO, the largest federation of unions, announced its support of Walz. By selecting Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, Kamala Harris chose a principled fighter and labor champion who will stand up for working people and strengthen this historic ticket, said Liz Shuler, president of AFL-CIO. Another exciting endorsement came from the United Auto Workers, which had initially taken longer to endorse Harris. Tim Walz has been a great governor and is going to make a great vice-president. Hes stood with the working class every step of the way, and has walked the walk, including on a UAW picket line last fall, said UAW President Shawn Fain, who leads nearly 400,000 active members, including more than 100,000 in the swing state of Michigan. Twitter screenshot UAW @UAW: Tim Walz doesnt just talk the talk, he walks the walk. From delivering for working-class Americans to standing with the UAW on our picket line last year, we know which side hes on. Thats why were going to send @KamalaHarris and @Tim_Walz to the White House this November. (photo of Tim Walz speaking to striking UAW workers) 10:03 AM August 6, 2024 410.8K Views Other unions also celebrated Walzs pick, including the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, or AFSCME, the National Education Association, or NEA, and the American Federation of Teachers, or AFT, with their union president, Randi Weingarten, writing that the AFTs 1.8 million members will stand with Walz and Harris over the next 12 weeks as they campaign to realize the promise and potential of America. Union leader Sara Nelson of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, or AFA, also chimed in, writing that Walz is in touch with the country and what we need to win. Prior to Harriss announcement, more than two dozen labor leaders in Minnesota sent a letter to Harris asking her to pick Walz as her running mate. In his time as governor, Walz fought for Minnesota workers, passing paid sick leave, parental leave, and protections from noncompete agreements and anti-union meetings. He also passed the nations strongest set of protections against wage theft. Before working in politics, Walz was a social studies teacher and union member. Officials probe cause of wildfire that sent residents fleeing in San Bernardino A fast-moving fire that destroyed homes and forced evacuations in the Southern California city of San Bernardino was stopped in its tracks by late Monday, and crews were working Tuesday to determine how many buildings were damaged. The Edgehill Fire is now 75% contained. Firefighters were able to take advantage of lower overnight temperatures after facing excessive heat the previous day, San Bernardino County Fire said in an update. "At this point, the fire is very much under control," the San Bernardino Police Department said Monday evening. The Edgehill Fire started on Little Mountain in San Bernardino around 2:40 p.m. local time and had burned about 100 acres by 4:53 p.m., according to KTLA-TV, which aired footage of homes being overtaken by flames in real time. By 5:45 p.m., the fire's forward motion had been stopped, and on Tuesday morning, the fire department said it was holding at 54 acres. Buildings in the fire's path were reduced to rubble and the shells of burned-out cars remained in streets as fire crews responded. A firefighter walks through the remains of a house as the Edgehill Fire destroyed several homes and vehicles during a hot day with temperatures reaching 107 degrees in San Bernardino, California, on Aug. 5, 2024. Officials probe cause of San Bernardino blaze Officials are now investigating how the fire started and had detained and released at least one person in connection with the investigation. The San Bernardino County Fire Department issued evacuation orders on Monday for homes on the south side of the mountain, which is about an hour east of Los Angeles. "Little Mountain is a community that is not unaccustomed to fire, fire department spokesperson Eric Sherwin told KTLA. The residents here are aware of fire and the threat that exists in this community. As engines were pulling up, people were already evacuating out of this area. Temperatures in San Bernardino hit a high of 109 on Monday and are expected to reach 106 on Tuesday. The area is under an excessive heat warning from the National Weather Service until Tuesday night. ***EVACUATION ORDER*** For the #EdgehillFire, an evacuation order has been issued for: All residents living on the south side of and south of Ridge Line Drive All residents living on the north side and north of Edgehill Rd west to and including Beverly Drive; east to Circle pic.twitter.com/9WjuY83zJ7 San Bernardino County Fire (@SBCOUNTYFIRE) August 5, 2024 Wildfires have raged in the West this year The Edgehill Fire is the latest wildfire to spark in the western half of the country. The Park Fire continues to burn in northern California, becoming the fourth-largest fire in the state's history. The fire was 34% contained as of Tuesday morning and has singed over 414,000 acres and destroyed 640 structures, according to Cal Fire. Over 30 major fires are also burning in the Pacific Northwest. Fires near Durkee, Oregon, have burned about 460,000 acres and the Pioneer Fire in Washington has burned for just under two months. The fires in Oregon put over 9,000 people under an evacuation warning Monday, with 1,747 under a level three notice that advised residents to leave the area immediately, according to the Oregon Office of Emergency Management. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Edgehill Fire destroys San Bernardino homes; residents flee (FOX40.COM) A large wildfire was ignited near the Sacramento International Airport on Monday afternoon and has threatened at least one structure, according to the Sacramento Fire Department. Around 5:15 p.m., Sacramento fire officials said the fire, which is spreading through grass, is near West Elverta Road and Powerline Road. Officials did not specify which structure was at risk. Officials said the fire started at 100 acres and then jumped to 300 acres by 7:30 p.m. Several units responded to the scene and reportedly have the flames under control. The cause of the fire is unknown. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. (Bloomberg) -- Moves from Congress are likely to be more important to building out US energy projects than policy from the White House, according to the top executive at pipeline operator Williams Cos. Most Read from Bloomberg I actually think paying more attention to how Congress turns out, and the legislative front, is actually a bigger push because thats actually where we might see some reform in the law in a way that allows us to build out the pipeline infrastructure that we need, Chief Executive Officer Alan Armstrong said on a call with analysts. His comments came Tuesday as Vice President Kamala Harris tapped Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate in her presidential campaign bid against Donald Trump. Harris has a track record of opposition to offshore drilling and fracking, suggesting shed be a fierce oil-industry antagonist if she were to win the White House in November. I have to remind people this that even during the prior Trump administration, we had major projects get stopped because states can block them and the federal government can do little to intervene, Armstrong said. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. WASHINGTON Wisconsin's top Democrats on Tuesday largely praised Vice President Kamala Harris' selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, citing his Midwest roots and ability to appeal to middle America. "All roads to the White House lead through the Midwest," said U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan, "and who better to help guide us there than the governor of Minnesota himself." Harris picked Walz, 60, after considering a number of perhaps more high-profile candidates from states critical to the path to reelection. Democrats in Wisconsin in recent days had signaled they would be fine with any of the top contenders, which included Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly. More: Tim Walz vs. JD Vance: How Kamala Harris, Donald Trump's VP picks match up But after Harris' announcement they pointed to Walz's working-class background as a former high school teacher, his military service and his six terms in Congress as experience that could appeal to voters in a key swing state like Wisconsin. Former Democratic U.S. Rep. Ron Kind, whose district bordered much of Minnesota, told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel recently that he worked with Walz during their time in the House and said their two congressional districts were demographically and economically similar. "I think he's a strong pick," Kind said, describing Walz as pragmatic and someone with common sense and Midwestern values. "I think he will be very attractive in middle America, in those swing states. I think his record of accomplishment as governor of Minnesota is outstanding." Kind added: "He's smart, he's witty, he's fun to be around. He'll be very appealing to a lot of voters." More: Tim Walz and the legacy of 'weird': Democrats embrace VP pick's one-word insult for MAGA The announcement comes a day before Harris and Walz are expected to campaign together in Eau Claire as part of a tour this week of battleground states across the country. The visit lands the pair in Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District the state's main swing district that flipped red in 2022 following Kind's retirement. Former President Donald Trump won the district in 2016, when he won Wisconsin, and in 2020, when he lost the state to President Joe Biden. Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance will campaign in Eau Claire the same day Harris and Walz visit. Republicans on Tuesday immediately sought to cast Walz's selection as pushing the Democratic Party farther to the left. Brian Schimming, the chairman of the Republican Party of Wisconsin, slammed Walz for his state's handling of the protests following the murder of George Floyd in 2020 and painted him as weak on the southern border. "The Democratic Party and Kamala Harris have cast aside common sense to placate their extremist wing," Schimming said. "Americans are tired of failure, but that is all Democrats have left to offer." Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany, whose 7th Congressional District also shares a border with Minnesota, also referenced Walz's handling of the 2020 protests against police brutality. "This is the SOCIALIST dream," Tiffany wrote on X. Still, just as Wisconsin Republicans initially pointed to Trump's selection of Vance, an Ohio senator, as someone who could help the GOP in the Midwest, those in Wisconsin speculated Walz could provide a boost to Democrats. Barry Burden, a political science professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, said Walz was "mostly likely to have a positive electoral impact in Wisconsin" out of the final handful of candidates Harris had considered. He said Walz "conveys more of a working-class background" that could appeal to rural voters around the Midwest. "He is best positioned to relate to Wisconsin voters and will be a familiar figure to people who live in northwest Wisconsin and are within the Twin Cities media market," said Burden, who is also director of UW's Elections Research Center. That analysis shined clear in Democrats' reactions to Walz. Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Ben Wikler on Tuesday morning called Walz "a proven Midwestern leader" and said: "Wisconsinites know Governor Walz." "Hes our neighbor, and embodies the spirit of neighborliness," Wikler said in a statement. "In Western Wisconsin, voters see him every day on local television beamed in from the Twin Cities." U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin in a statement called Walz a veteran, a teacher, and a true public servant. She noted his Midwest roots.The path to the presidency and control of the U.S. Senate runs directly through the Midwest and Im glad to see our party focusing on our region, Baldwin said. And U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore, a Milwaukee Democrat called Walz her "dear congressional colleague" and said Democrats were fortunate to have had a number of vice presidential candidates with governing experience. "Governor Walz is a smart choice and a great human being," Moore said. Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers highlighted Walz's proximity to Wisconsin and issued a call to Democrats: Lets go win the darn thing. "As former educators, Tim and I believe i doing what's best for kids, leading with kindness, empathy, and respect, and working hard to get things done for the people we serve," Evers said in a statement. "Those are exactly the kind of Midwestern values and qualities that will make Tim a great Vice President." This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin Democrats praise pick of Tim Walz as Harris running mate Wisconsin man facing 39 charges after allegedly using secret camera to inappropriately record others without knowledge at a farmers market KENOSHA, Wis. (WFRV) A 40-year-old Wisconsin man has been charged after being accused of using a camera to look up womens and girls skirts at a farmers market. According to a release, the Kenosha Police Department received a call from a vendor at the Kenosha Harbor Market on June 22 about a man, identified as Kevin Pursell, 40, who appeared to be using a camera to look up womens and girls clothing. Green Bay woman with 84 charges in alleged check forgery operation has status conference A 24-year veteran with the Kenosha Police Department located Pursell a short time later in the crowd and found him to have a small camera that, at first glance, appeared to be a button from an article of clothing. The video stored on the cameras memory card led investigators to conduct a search warrant at Pursells home, producing evidence that supported his initial arrest. A second search warrant of Pursells house involved K9s that specialized in electronic storage detection. Both K9s located several storage devices that were missed in the initial search warrant. Wisconsin Circuit Court records show that Pursell is facing 39 charges: 18 Counts of Invade Privacy View/Broadcast/Record Individuals Genitals, etc. Felony I 15 Counts of Capture an Intimate Representation Felony I 3 Counts of Attempt to Capture an Intimate Representation Felony I 3 Counts of Possession of Child Pornography Felony D Pursell appeared on behalf of Judge William Michel in the Kenosha County Courthouse on August 1 for his initial appearance, and a cash bond was set at $100,000. In addition, the court reminded Pursell that proper attire is required for court appearances. Shorts and tank tops are not allowed in the courtroom. Additionally, Pursell is not allowed in Woodmans, RecPlex, Atlas Gym, Anytime Fitness, Kenosha Harbor Market, and cannot have contact with Jake D, Erin W, Eric B, Theresa B, Kyle P, RMT, CAT, MRB, ECP, AB, and, no contact with any minor children under the age of 18. Judge denies request to dismiss sexual assault case against Neenah District Attorney This case is a great example of the community and law enforcement coming together, the Kenosha Police Department said in a post on its social media page. Without the initial phone call from the citizen who saw Kevin acting suspiciously, we may not have known about Kevins actions. Pursell is expected to return to court on August 9 for a preliminary hearing. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. Some say they witnessed a miracle as blessed statue tours Northeast Ohio Some say they witnessed a miracle as blessed statue tours Northeast Ohio PARMA, Ohio (WJW) Did the eyes on a blessed statue come to life and then close? Some who witnessed the event, which was captured on camera, are calling it a miracle. I knew it was a miracle because Id been looking at her all morning, said Connie Liptak, who witnessed the phenomena. Theyre really closed. I mean, you can really see her lashes are down. It happened Friday at the Basilica of St. John the Baptist in Canton. The International Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima is currently making stops across Northeast Ohio and was on display there that day. The statue travels the world spreading the message of Our Lady of Fatima. The sculpture was commissioned in 1947 following specifications of Venerable Sister Lucia, one of three shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal, who reported seeing apparitions of Jesuss mother Mary in 1917, revealing secrets of hell and prophecies of war and the need for mankind to stop offending God. Cleveland bowling spot offering $300K for perfect game There was also the miracle of the sun, which they say was foretold by Mary and witnessed by 70,000 people and reported in newspapers at that time. When the sun was dancing in the sky, everyone was looking up and then suddenly it started plummeting to the earth, said Katie Moran, who is the president of the World Apostolate of Fatima USA. Katie captured the pictures of the eyes opening and closing. In the past, shes worked to bring other versions of the statue to the area. She says the international statue is different and special in many ways. The sculpture is believed to be the closest likeness of who the children saw and was blessed by the bishop of Fatima and Venerable Pope Pius 12th. Its been traveling ever since and they say reports of healings and miracles follow her wherever she goes from cancer to infertility. We know that shes wept 15 times, said Larry Maginot, the statues custodian. VIDEO: Couple successfully returns 5-year-old mattress to Costco Larry travels with the statue and says hes heard numerous miraculous claims and cures, including a 3-year-old in Vietnam who suffered from incurable malaria. He said, the doctors had given up on me, said Maginot, but his father took him to the statue, and he ended up recovering. Now, there is this latest miraculous development. According to theologians, mystically her presence is there with the statue, said Moran. On Monday, she shared the pictures with FOX 8 as the sculpture was on display at St. Andrews in Parma. Katie said she was taking pictures to post on social media when she saw the eyes. I took it and thought, thats really nice, and I took one more to be sure and when I looked at it, the eyes were closed and I go, wow! she said. Katie believes Mary is again sending a warning to the world, and as for skeptics, she has a message. For those who believe, no proof is necessary. for those who dont, no proof is possible, she said. Its faith and I believe. I just say, I dont lie, I know what Ive seen and I believe what Ive seen, added Liptak. The statue will remain on tour in Northeast Ohio through August 21. The next stop is Tuesday at St. Michaels at 463 Robinson Road in Campbell, Ohio. You can see the complete schedule here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. LIVINGSTON COUNTY Shortly after releasing the results of its investigation into Kirk Lanam, director of Veteran Service Dogs in Livingston County, WLNS confirmed the organization is not in compliance with state law on soliciting donations. Veteran Service Dogs does not appear in the states database of registered charities. In an email to WLNS, the Michigan Attorney General's office said the organization is not registered to operate a charity or to accept donations. We will be authoring a letter to them, informing them of this requirement and directing them to register or submit a request for exemption, Spokesman Danny Wimmer wrote in an email to WLNS. If they fail to come into compliance, we may take administrative or civil action. The penalties for violating the act ... include a civil fine of up to $10,000 for each violation and up to five years in prison for certain intentional violations. More: Report: Livingston nonprofit leader embellished military service record for years WLNS cited business records that confirm Lanam founded the nonprofit in 2018 and received a nonprofit designation from the IRS in 2019. Subscribe: Get all your breaking news and unlimited access to our local coverage WLNS began an investigation into Lanam after receiving tips from volunteers. The news organization found Lanam embellished his military record, educational background, and was convicted by a federal grand jury for three felony counts of computer intrusion. Lanam has not returned a call to Veterans Service Dogs from The Daily. Contact reporter Tess Ware at tware@livingstondaily.com. This article originally appeared on Livingston Daily: Veteran Service Dogs not in compliance with state law A woman charged on Thursday with setting fire to a truck trailer and its contents at an Erie business in June is accused of setting a fire in a city police holding cell following her arrest. The Erie Bureau of Police cell range wasn't damaged in the fire, but the cell range was closed because of heavy smoke and burn marks were left on the floor, toilet and sink of the woman's holding cell, according to police. Erie police are now reviewing their policy on searching prisoners in the wake of the incident, Inspector Christopher Janus said Monday. The woman accused in both fires, Shandrell L. Moye, 40, whom Erie police listed as homeless, was placed in the Erie County Prison on $75,000 in bonds following her arraignments Thursday morning on charges including first- and second-degree counts of arson in the two cases. A lawyer for Moye was not listed on her criminal docket sheets. Fire at trucking company Erie police accuse Moye in one of the criminal complaints of setting fire to a parked truck trailer at Team Hardinger trucking company, 1314 W. 18th St., on the evening of June 9. The fire, which the Erie Bureau of Fire was called in to extinguish, destroyed the trailer and the roughly $29,000 worth of equipment stored in it and caused an estimated $7,000 worth of damage to a building where the trailer was parked, the Erie police detective who filed the charges wrote in the complaint's affidavit of probable cause. Surveillance video from the trucking company showed a female suspect, police said they later identified as Moye, walking to the area of the trailer. About 45 seconds later, smoke is seen coming from the trailer and Moye eventually left the property, according to information in the affidavit. Erie police learned on July 31 that an Erie Bureau of Fire investigator determined the fire was incendiary, according to the affidavit. Fire in a holding cell Erie police said Moye was taken into custody and was in a holding cell at the police station in Erie City Hall, 626 State St., when, shortly before 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, an officer saw on a security camera Moye start a fire. The fire was started utilizing a pair of pants, toilet paper and cardboard with a lighter Moye had hidden on her person, according to information in the affidavit filed with the second criminal complaint. After starting the fire, police allege in the affidavit, Moye was seen concealing the lighter in her vaginal area. Moye was not reported injured in the fire. There were some prisoners in other cells at the time, but no injuries were reported, according to police. Moye is tentatively scheduled to appear in court for her preliminary hearings on Aug. 12. Contact Tim Hahn at thahn@timesnews.com. Follow him on X @ETNhahn. This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Woman accused of burning truck trailer, setting fire in Erie jail cell Prior coverage shown in video player above. SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (WDTN) The woman accused of causing a deadly crash near Springfield in April has been indicted. Katharine Holder, 39 of Enon, faces charges including aggravated vehicular homicide and OVI. One-man wrecking ball: Man indicted on 63 charges related to vandalism The crash happened on U.S. Route 68 and Fairfield Pike in Springfield Township. State troopers say Holder ran a red light and crashed into a vehicle carrying a married couple and their two children. Ryan Botkin died at the hospital, and the children were taken to the hospital with serious injuries. According to the crash report, Holder was drunk with a blood-alcohol level 3 times above the legal limit. On July 29, she was indicted by the Clark County Grand Jury with one count of Aggravated Vehicular Homicide, three counts of aggravated vehicular assault and two counts of OVI. Holder is currently being held at the Clark County Jail. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. Woman claiming to be Gods wife arrested in connection to ambush that killed Florida deputy: report Woman claiming to be Gods wife arrested in connection to ambush that killed Florida deputy: report TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) A woman was arrested in connection to an ambush that killed a Lake County deputy and injured two others last week, NBC affiliate WESH reports. On Monday, the Lake County Sheriffs Office said a 911 caller alleged 48-year-old Julie Sulpizio was assaulting people in his year, including striking his wife. The caller said Sulpizio was acting religious and told them they were sinners, according to the sheriffs office. She was talking about how she was hell and Gods wife, and we were all demons, and our dogs were hell hounds and all of this, and it was just a crazy and insane moment, a witness told WESH. When deputies arrived on the scene, Sulpizio approached them with her hands behind her back. She was then commanded not to approach, with the deputy pointing his taser at her when she initially failed to comply. Sulpizio said her neighbors, who claimed she was assaulting them, were pedophiles and called herself Helen, saying Julie is in Heaven, the sheriffs office said. Lake County Master Deputy Sheriff Bradley Link. Credit: Lake County Sheriffs Office Sulpizio claimed she had to trick Lucy, who the sheriffs office said was her name for the devil. Sulpizio then pointed at the responding deputy and said You are one of them. Neighbors told deputies on scene that Sulpizio tried to make them walk to her home while she walked behind them, but that they did not trust Sulpizio. When asked if Michael Sulpizio, 49, her husband who lived in the home, was okay, Julie claimed he had sent her down there. Sulpizio was taken into custody and deputies then went to her home to conduct a welfare check on her husband and their daughters. Five deputies attempted to contact those inside the home and witnessed three people inside moving inside the house. Believing there could have been a home invasion, the deputies announced themselves before entering the residence through the back door, with one staying in the doorway, WESH reports. The sheriffs office said bodycam footage from Master Deputy Sheriff Bradley Link shows the moment a man in a black shirt and possibly body armor believed to be Michael Sulpizio fires a gun, striking and gravely wounding Master Deputy Link. The sheriffs office said that while attempting to rescue Link, someone inside the residence began to fire at deputies outside the home, who returned fire. Two more deputies were wounded and are expected to undergo surgery Monday for their injuries. WESH reports Links body was found inside the home after law enforcement established control of the property. The bodies of a man and two younger women were also found inside. The sheriffs office identified the deceased as Michael Sulpizio, 49, and Julie Sulpizios two biological daughters, Savannah and Cheyenne Sulpizio, both in their early 20s. Michael was their adopted father. Two small dogs were also found dead in the yard, WESH reported. Inside the home, deputies found more than 20 firearms that were gathered, placed, and staged, according to the sheriffs office. Conspiracy theory-related media was also reportedly found. Julie Sulpizio told deputies she was trying to lure neighbors into her home so Michael could kill them, WESH reports. Sheriff Peyton Grinnell described the incident as an ambush. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. Reality Check is a Star series holding those with power to account and shining a light on their decisions. Have a suggestion for a future story? Email our journalists at RealityCheck@kcstar.com. Kansas City and the Kansas City Police Department will pay $2 million each to settle a lawsuit filed by a Prairie Village man who claims his wife died five years ago because police and fire department dispatchers mishandled a 911 call. The agencies also agreed to evaluate the 911 system regularly going forward. The City Councils finance committee on Tuesday recommended that the full council approve the citys half of the $4 million settlement at its regular weekly meeting on Thursday. Mayor Quinton Lucas said the Board of Police Commissioners, of which he is a member, authorized payment of an equal amount on July 30. The amount was redacted from that days meeting minutes because no final disposition of the matter had occurred at that time. Beyond the millions of dollars changing hands, the settlement agreement requires that authorities conduct random audits of the citys 911 system to prevent similar tragedies from occurring, according to attorney Brian McCallister, who represents the family of Cathryn McClelland. Her husband, Frank McClelland, alleged that his wife died at age 40 because emergency responders arrived too late to save her from suffering permanent brain damage, and she had a heart attack and stopped breathing. Its called Cathryns Code, and it will be, as part of the settlement, required that the Board of Police Commissioners adopt a new policy where there are a minimum of 50 recorded 911 calls pulled randomly every month and reviewed for quality control and quality assurance, McCallister said. That was not being done by the board. That was an admitted fact in one of the depositions by the boards representative. A police department spokesman declined comment to ensure fairness for all sides in this pending litigation. Cathryn McClelland awoke with chest pains on the morning of July 18, 2019. Her husband was out of state on a construction job, while she was at home in Prairie Village caring for their 8-year-old son and 3-year-old daughter. According to the lawsuit in Jackson County Circuit Court, she collapsed on the kitchen floor shortly after 6 a.m. The couples son was with her and immediately called 911 on her cell phone. As their home was near the state line, his call was routed to the Kansas City Police Department emergency call center. Call takers there are trained to expect and handle calls routed to them from Johnson County through the regional 911 system. They are supposed to then contact Kansas agencies for emergency service. But the dispatcher who took the call that morning instead contacted the Kansas City Fire Department for help. She acknowledged later in a deposition that she knew to contact Johnson County authorities instead, but never explained why she didnt do that. We will never know why she did what she did, he said in an interview with The Star. The police dispatcher said she knew KCFD was not authorized to send an ambulance across the state line. An emergency response was further delayed when that dispatcher and a fire department dispatcher became confused as to the correct address in Prairie Village. Even though the 8-year-old boy had given his correct address more than once over the phone, the original call taker questioned whether that address in Prairie Village was correct as her electronic location-finder showed the call originating from somewhere else in that city. So the original call taker called the father in Iowa to confirm the address, only to call the Kansas City Fire Department again. A supervisor who overheard the confusion intervened and contacted Johnson County, McCallister said. You can literally hear in (the supervisors) voice the anger that an ambulance had not been requested and she testified and these are her words, not mine I was pissed, he said. The first responders were Prairie Village police who, due to the dispatch errors, did not arrive at the home until nearly 14 minutes after the initial 911 call, according to court documents. An ambulance came soon after, court records show. While first responders were able to get her breathing again, Cathyrn McClelland never regained consciousness and was pronounced dead four days later. Despite hearing their testimony in depositions, McCallister said he doesnt know why the dispatchers ignored their training and made mistakes that he believes led to Cathryn McClellands death. They did not do anything intentionally. They didnt say to themselves, were going to kill (the boys) mother, he said. I really think it goes to the training and how the board failed to pound it into these peoples heads that when they get a call from Kansas, which they do routinely get, that it needs to be immediately transferred to the proper agency. Lucas told the finance committee that he expects more discussion surrounding the future of the 911 system. Hes been critical of its long wait times. Last week, he introduced a plan to unify the police and fire/ambulance systems for greater efficiency, but told reporters that it could be a complicated negotiation. To me there are a few basic rules of local government and things were really supposed to do, he said. Roads, somebody responds to 911, police and fire. Right now, failing at one of those foundational steps is something that I find wholly unacceptable. Bad 911 service is annoying for some and a matter of life or death for many others, McCallister said. He hopes this settlement reinforces that point to policy makers, but he cant be sure it will. What Im concerned about is not even this is going to change the horrific 911 service that we get in Kansas City, he said. Thats why we had to have that unusual Cathryns Code added to the settlement, because it wasnt just about money. It was about making change and keeping people safe. Woman faces murder charge in stabbing death at Crowley apartment complex, police say A North Texas woman is facing a murder charge in a stabbing that killed a man Saturday, according to Crowley police. At around 6:15 p.m. Saturday, officers responded to a 911 call about a stabbing at the Landmark at Crowley apartments, located at 305 West FM 1187. The victim, a 33-year-old man, was taken to John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth, where he died from his injuries, according to police. Officers arrested 34-year-old Lauren Goar at the scene, police said in a news release. The victim was in a relationship with Goar and was killed in a domestic violence assault in which she was the aggressor, according to a police report and arrest warrant affidavit. More top stories from our newsroom: Man sentenced in retrial of killing at AT&T Stadium Reading scores show FWISD years behind national average County plans to pay guards' attorneys in jail death suit [Get our breaking news alerts.] Goar was booked into the Tarrant County Jail on charges of murder and tampering with or fabricating physical evidence. Her bond is set at $110,000. A demonstrator holds a sign reading "Palestine will be free from the river to the sea" during a protest. Christoph Soeder/dpa A Berlin court on Tuesday convicted a 22-year-old woman for chanting the controversial slogan "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free" just days after the October 7 attacks on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The Tiergarten District Court handed the woman a 600 ($655) fine for "condoning a criminal act" by using the phrase at a demonstration in the Berlin neighbourhood of Neukolln on October 11. The judge explained that the use of the slogan so soon after the October 7 attacks effectively constituted an endorsement of the atrocity and a denial of Israel's right to exist. The slogan "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free" calls for the establishment of a Palestinian state between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea, where the state of Israel is located. It has generally been interpreted by Jewish communities and others as a call for the elimination of the state of Israel. German police have sought to crack down on the use of the phrase, which Israel has described as anti-Semitic. "It was intended to condone the massacre," the judge added, calling the slogan an "incitement" likely to disturb the public peace. The case came to trial after the defendant appealed against a penalty order she received on the day of the rally, which she attended along with around 60 other demonstrators. The defendant said she was committed to fighting racism and anti-Semitism and in favour of "an end to violence." Her defence lawyers pleaded for an acquittal, arguing the slogan was "ambiguous" and denying its links with Hamas. The public prosecutor had demanded a 900 fine. Shortly after the judgement was handed down, court officials had to clear the courtroom due to loud protests from spectators. Numerous demonstrations have taken place in Berlin during the current conflict in Gaza, which began in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks, in which Hamas and others invaded Israel, killed 1,200 people and took some 250 hostage. A demonstrator holds a sign reading "Palestine will be free from the river to the sea" during a protest. Christoph Soeder/dpa A Berlin court on Tuesday convicted a 22-year-old woman for chanting the controversial slogan "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free" just days after the October 7 attacks on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The Tiergarten District Court handed the woman a 600 ($655) fine for "condoning a criminal act" by using the phrase at a demonstration in the Berlin neighbourhood of Neukolln on October 11. The judge explained that the use of the slogan so soon after the October 7 attacks effectively constituted an endorsement of the atrocity and a denial of Israel's right to exist. The slogan "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free" calls for the establishment of a Palestinian state between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea, where the state of Israel is located. It has generally been interpreted by Jewish communities and others as a call for the elimination of the state of Israel. German police have sought to crack down on the use of the phrase, which Israel has described as anti-Semitic. "It was intended to condone the massacre," the judge added, calling the slogan an "incitement" likely to disturb the public peace. The case came to trial after the defendant appealed against a penalty order she received on the day of the rally, which she attended along with around 60 other demonstrators. The defendant said she was committed to fighting racism and anti-Semitism and in favour of "an end to violence." Her defence lawyers pleaded for an acquittal, arguing the slogan was "ambiguous" and denying its links with Hamas. The public prosecutor had demanded a 900 fine. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A Poland woman who pleaded guilty to falsifying records in a case in Mahoning County Probate Court was sentenced Tuesday in common pleas court to five years probation. Katina Soltis, 54, must also serve three days in the county jail and write a letter of apology to Probate Court Judge Robert Rusu as part of her sentence. Soltis pleaded guilty May 28 before Judge R. Scott Krichbaum to two counts of tampering with evidence, a third-degree felony. Prosecutors say she forged documents in Mahoning County Probate Court indicating that she deposited $32,000, which had been willed to her children by a relative, but investigators say she kept the money for herself. A grand jury indicted her in April. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. World Bank says assessing impact of Bangladesh events on its loan program A mural of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is seen vandalised by protesters as people celebrate her resignation in Dhaka WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The World Bank on Monday said it was assessing the impact of events in Bangladesh on its loan program with the country after its Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled. Hasina's exit came after hundreds of people were killed in a crackdown on demonstrations that began as protests against preferential job quotas and swelled into a movement demanding her downfall. "We mourn the violence and tragic loss of life that has taken place in recent weeks in Bangladesh and hope for a swift and peaceful resolution. We are assessing the impact of the unfolding situation on the World Bank Group program and remain committed to supporting the development aspirations of the people of Bangladesh," a spokesperson for the bank said. The World Bank's board in June approved two projects totaling $900 million to help Bangladesh strengthen fiscal and financial sector policies and improve urban infrastructure to ensure sustainable and climate-resistant growth. The World Bank was among the first development partners to support Bangladesh following its independence. Since then, the bank has committed about $41 billion in grants and interest-free credits to the disaster-prone country. The World Bank Group had total commitments in Bangladesh of $2.85 billion in fiscal year 2024, ended June 30, according to the bank's website. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal; Editing by Sonali Paul and Shri Navaratnam) SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) Its becoming rare enough to meet a World War II veteran and one Lackawanna County man is really one in a million. He turned 100 years old last week. One veteran hit the century mark surrounded by dozens of fellow veterans at Gino J. Merli Veterans Center in Scranton. Ill tell ya it wasnt easy it was a struggle, one step at a time, and I had to drag it, said Retired World War II Veteran John Lubek. Lubek turned 100 years old on Wednesday, July 31. Mondays well-deserved party kicked off with music and speeches with memories of Lubekss career in the military. March 17, 1943. Thats when I went in, Lubek stated. Lubek got drafted at the age of 18 and was stationed in the South Pacific. Hawaii and the Philippines, Lubek explained. Breaking ground for new combined fire, police station in Moosic Surrounded by family, Lubek shares a lifetime of memories. I was young vigorous and excited you know and raring to go, Lubek continued. He was a cook and a tank battalion served in WWII, came back served his community and now hes just enjoying life, said Pennsylvania National Guard Joint Staff Director Brigadier General John Pippy. Hes certainly living life to the fullest. At 100 years old, Lubek found himself taking a trip to the Bronx. Oh we went to the Yankees Stadium and watched the ball game and the Yankees won then. Boy did we all feel good believe me, Lubek explained. This was Lubeks first time at Yankee Stadium sporting a Babe Ruth jersey, a dream come true. That was a thrill for me to be there, said Lubek. The trip was made possible thanks to the Twilight Wish Foundation. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com. Syringes with vaccine serum are ready in a GP's practice for booster vaccination with the Comirnaty vaccine from the manufacturer Biontech/Pfizer. The World Health Organization (WHO) is calling for vaccination campaigns for risk groups in view of increasing coronavirus infections and falling immunization rates. Wolfgang Kumm/dpa The World Health Organization (WHO) is calling for vaccination campaigns for risk groups in view of increasing coronavirus infections and falling immunization rates. "We have seen an alarming decline in vaccine coverage," WHO expert Maria Van Kerkhove said in Geneva, referring to lower rates in the last two years. This is especially true for older people and healthcare workers. "This urgently needs to be turned around," she said. Among all coronavirus tests, the proportion of positive results has been rising for several weeks and is over 10%, the WHO reported, based on data from 84 countries. In Europe, the rate is over 20%. Wastewater analyses show that the virus is much more widespread than the infection statistics suggest, said Van Kerkhove. She also pointed out that more than 40 athletes had tested positive at the Olympic Games in Paris. WHO laments lack of data However, the epidemiologist emphasized that the current situation is not comparable to the pandemic phase, as many more people are now protected from severe courses of the disease by vaccinations and infections they had. Van Kerkhove also pointed out that the WHO only receives data on the number of coronavirus treatments in hospitals and intensive care units from very few countries. She said the WHO is "blind" when it comes to understanding the extent of the disease. Rayellen Smith delivers a petition to amend the proposed produced water rules before the Water Quality Control Commission on Aug. 5, 2024 at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe. (Photo by Austin Fisher / Source NM) A New Mexico water board member with ties to the oil and gas industry announced Monday she will abstain from a final vote on statewide rules developing additional uses of oil and gas wastewater. The Water Quality Control Commission (WQCC), an oft-overlooked body of 13 members tasked with shaping and enforcing state water policy, is reviewing proposed rules to expand uses for oil and gas wastewater. Currently, there are 12 members, with one vacant seat. Rulemaking on the issue has been a monthslong process. The commission resumed hearing testimony and cross examination of witnesses supporting or challenging proposed rules on Monday, after a week of testimony in May. In the opening minutes of the meeting Monday, Commissioner Krista McWilliams stopped short of recusing herself, saying there is no basis for allegations of personal or corporate gain from her position on the WQCC. She said she would listen to hearings and offer her opinions, but shell abstain from voting. If the commission would allow, I intend to remain a participant in the hearing and remain committed to serve New Mexico, she said. However, I do not want to stand in the way of due process. In order to allow science to have its day in court, I will abstain from the final vote. How did we get here? McWilliams statement follows months of questions about unclear disclosure rules for commission members, and a motion for McWilliams to recuse herself filed by an environmental group opposing the rules adoption. In June, Navajo Nation citizens Daniel Tso and Samuel Sage and New Energy Economy, a nonprofit organization opposing the rules, filed a motion requesting McWilliams recuse herself, alleging conflicts of interest with oil and gas interests. The issue escalated as additional motions were filed in July. McWilliams called the allegations baseless on Monday, further saying that neither she, her husband, nor their Farmington-based oil and gas company LOGOS Energy receive any gain from her sitting on the rulemaking body. She said she would not receive a financial benefit from the rulemaking, and said that LOGOS Energy or her husband Jay Paul McWilliams had not participated with the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association since 2022. Despite my industry background, I remain committed to the Water Quality Act objective of protecting public health and enhancing water quality, she said. My obligation is to serve the public interests, not personal or corporate gain. She further said a six-year-old video aimed to inform the public about fracking, a process of injecting liquid at high pressures for oil and gas instruction, was done on a voluntary basis and had no relation to the rule-making process. In the video, which is no longer on the website, McWilliams said she supports the controversial drilling practice, saying at one point: Fracking, its a sensitive subject. I get it. But I feel good about fracking. Missi Currier, the president and CEO of the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association, which lobbies on behalf of the industry, filed testimony saying that McWilliams did not know the video was still on the nonprofits website. Mariel Nanasi, the executive director for New Energy Economy, told Source NM that McWilliams abstention doesnt go far enough. Shes only abstaining from the vote, shes not abstaining from the deliberation, Nanasi said, adding that she feels that could taint the commissions ultimate decision, and could be brought up in an appeal. Tso echoed those concerns in a call after the hearing, saying hes concerned her participation will still slant the final rules. No statements from party members or the public were allowed in the hearing, according to the Hearing Officer Felicia Orth, whos acting as the judge in the matter. Orth said in the hearing, that she was deferring any ruling on the recusal issue to the commission, and said the issue may be explored by other state agencies. But it appears the issue is closed before the WQCC. A mirror complaint that New Energy Economy submitted to the State Ethics Commission is part of a separate proceeding, which is not open to the public at this time. In a copy of McWilliams response to the ethics complaint obtained by Source NM, she requested that a hearing be postponed until after the Aug. 5 WQCC proceedings. What is produced water? Oil and gas wastewater, often called produced water, is at the center of the rulemaking. As New Mexico water sources are expected to become increasingly strained by more demand and shrinking supplies from a hotter, drier climate the relationship between oil and gas and its wastewater is drawing more public attention to the deliberations. The state generates billions of gallons of toxic wastewater from oil and gas production. The wastewater is often extremely salty and includes hazardous chemicals used in fracking such as PFAs, arsenic, benzene and more. Much of the water is currently disposed of by injecting it underground, which has been linked to earthquakes. Some of the wastewater is recycled for further oil drilling. Currently, there is no approved use for produced water off of the oilfields. Inside Climate detailed the weeks worth of debate from the hearings in May. Across hours of testimony, New Mexico Environment Department experts proposed using produced water in industrial processes, such as power plant cooling, manufacturing or hydrogen production and developing smaller demonstration projects to study treatments. Oil and gas industry representatives argued too-restrictive rules, including the proposed rules, will drive companies from New Mexico to other states and environmental groups oppose using the wastewater for industry, citing health and safety concerns. Whats happening this week? The Water Quality Control Commission is scheduled to hold rulemaking hearings through the end of the week. The meetings are held in Committee Room 322 in the Roundhouse. Links to a livestream are available online by visiting the Calendar for New Mexico Environment Department, and using the link to attend the webinar. Public comment can be made in person or online. Former Phoenix Vice Mayor Yassamin Ansari narrowly has won the Democratic nomination in Arizonas 3rd Congressional District by just dozens of votes, pending the results of an automatic recount triggered by the race's thin margin. Unofficial results released on Monday evening showed Ansari leading her top competitor, former state Sen. Raquel Teran, by 0.1%. Under state law, elections automatically head to a recount if the margin of victory is 0.5% or less. After ballot-counting had wrapped up, Ansari led Teran by 42 votes out of 38,132 cast in the district's primary race. A third candidate, Duane Wooten, finished a distant third. Voters were faced with a choice between Ansari, a liberal pragmatist who if elected will become one of the youngest members of the U.S. House of Representatives, and Teran, a longtime community organizer and former chair of the Arizona Democratic Party. Ansari ran on her record on the Phoenix City Council and a suite of progressive priorities including affordable housing, climate action, and Medicare for All. Teran amassed a number of high-profile endorsements, including from Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, and progressive Sens. Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts. A victory would set Ansari up to succeed Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., who is vacating the seat to run for U.S. Senate, because the district leans heavily Democratic. Though the two candidates stated their agreement on most issues, Ansari hewed closer to the moderate wing of the party than her competitor. She accepted an endorsement from a pro-Israel group at a time when the partys progressive wing has fractured on the topic, and cast herself as more supportive of policing. She received the backing of more than a dozen labor groups. It was matters of finance that created the most heat on the campaign trail. During a televised debate, Teran attacked Ansari as "millionaire landlord" and charged she had taken substantial campaign funding from donors who had also given to Republicans. Ansaris candidacy was boosted by outside spending from a pro-cryptocurrency group, which earned her heated criticism from some quarters in the weeks leading up to the primary, and overall, she relied less on small-dollar donations than her competitor. Ansari, a former U.N. climate advisor, touted her expertise on matters of environmental and foreign policy, while Teran generally emphasized her familiarity with and experience working in the district. Teran earned the backing of the Sunrise Movement, a climate-focused youth group, even as she left the advocacy group Climate Hawks Vote unimpressed with her apparent lack of specific policy plans. Ansari will go up against Republican Jeff Zink in the November general election. The district strongly favors Democrats. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Yassamin Ansari leads Raquel Teran by 42 votes as race goes to recount WATCH: A New York Prosecutor Attempts To Meet Up With a 13-Year-Old Boy, and Things Go Left William C.C. Kemp-Neals career as an Assistant District Attorney (ADA) might be over after he was caught allegedly trying to meet up with a minor in the Bronx, New York City. Footage of the scheduled meet-up was posted by the group Dads Against Predators (DAP) online. In his role as ADA, Neal mostly handled cases involving harassment, assault, and child endangerment. Only days after the video hit the internet, Neal turned in his resignation to the Bronx District Attorneys office, according to the New York Post. In the video, Neal is seen standing outside of a Target when he is approached by two men clearly filming the whole thing. After one of the men says to Neal Marcus? How old are you? the former ADA took off running. The same man began shouting this man right here came to meet a 13-year-old boy as he continued to chase 30-year-old Neal into the Target parking lot. It almost seemed like Neal was going to get away until an unrelated bystander wrestled the former ADA to the ground and put him in a choke hold. NYC assistant DA quits after 'trying to meet a 13-year-old boy' https://t.co/tZUA2P3ITr pic.twitter.com/zwzPD8F8yb JayCarnicomDAP (@jaycarnicomdap) August 6, 2024 When DAP finally caught up to him, Neal immediately began denying everything. The man asked Neal You trying to meet a 13-year-old boy? You wanted to take him to get a milkshake, didnt you Marcus? In response, Neal told DAP no I didnt. According to DAP, Neal was allegedly communicating with said 13-year-old online before their scheduled meet up. Instead of the minor allegedly showing up to get milkshakes, DAP confronted Neal. Four days after the footage was released online, Neal quit his job. Although he hasnt spoke about why he resigned publicly, many online are assuming the allegations against him contributed to his decision. Even though Neal has not been charged with a crime, according to Black Enterprise, police said there will be a comprehensive investigation into the allegations made. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Ten people had been killed and 17 others remained missing as of 2 p.m. Monday after a flash flood and mudslide struck the city of Kangding in southwest China's Sichuan Province on Saturday, local authorities said. The disaster took place at about 3:30 a.m. Saturday in Kangding, Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Garze, toppling a tunnel bridge and destroying homes in Ridi Village. The bridge's collapse resulted in four vehicles with 11 people falling, among which three people have been confirmed dead, one was rescued, and seven remain missing. In Ridi Village, seven villagers were killed and ten are still missing. Rescue and search efforts are still ongoing, with 1,698 rescuers and over 400 sets of equipment, including helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, excavators and communications vehicles mobilized to the frontline. The village is located in a valley at an altitude of 1,300 meters above sea level, while the mountains nearby are over 5,000 meters above sea level. PITTSBURGH (WKBN) A drug case playing out in federal court in Western Pennsylvania is coming to a close with a Youngstown man entering a guilty plea Tuesday. Read next: Mug shot of mom is only pic daughter of homicide victim has to remember her by Eliot Gentry, 27, pleaded guilty in U.S. Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania to charges of distributing fentanyl, fluorofentanyl, and cocaine. The charges also include distributing fentanyl resulting in death in connection to the death of a person from Mercer County on January 23, 2022. Sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 4. The drug enterprise occurred from May 2021 to October 2022 when drugs were trafficked in Western Pennsylvania, according to prosecutors. At the time, investigators said the arrests of Gentry and six others disrupted a violent drug trafficking organization. Josh Shapiro, who was attorney general at the time and now governor, said that the arrests were critical. The rise of fentanyl has ripped through Western Pennsylvania and our office is determined to hold those who profit from these narcotics accountable to the law, he said. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. The News Protesters who overthrew Bangladeshs prime minister pushed for Nobel Peace Prize-winner Muhammad Yunus to be installed as chief advisor of the new interim government. His potential ascension would carry huge symbolism: Yunus was lauded worldwide for pioneering microloans to the poor, but faced corruption charges at home, allegations he insisted were politically motivated. Calls for him to step in came as an ex-premier was released from years of house arrest while the military sought to impose order in Dhaka, a day after protesters overran Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas official residence, sending her into exile. Zelenskyy on 1 million drones programme: more contracts to come President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Ukrainian manufacturers have already contracted for a million drones by 2024, and this amount will expand. Source: Zelenskyy's evening video address on 6 August Details: Zelenskyy stated that he had received briefings from representatives of the Ministry of Strategic Industries and the Ministry of Digital Transformation regarding the status of drone production and financing. Quote: "Our manufacturers have already contracted for a million drones this year, and the overall number will increase year after year. We do not reveal all of the intricacies, but the ability to build drones is getting greater", the president emphasised. In addition, Zelenskyy reported that at the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Headquarters it was decided to increase funding for Ukraine's missile programme. Background: The Defence Procurement Agency has reached a deal with a Ukrainian company for the supply of ground-based kamikaze drones. In Ukraine, the first tender for the purchase of Ukrainian drones was announced by Prozorro.Sales, the state procurement system. Support UP or become our patron! Zelenskyy convenes meeting of Supreme Commander-in-Chief Staff, says situation in east is under his personal control Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has convened another meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff, with a focus on the situation at the Pokrovsk, Toretsk, and Kharkiv fronts. Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces, stated that he was present on the scene and personally handled the issue. Source: Zelenskyy on Telegram Quote: "Held a meeting of the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief. Question number one is the situation at the front. The fronts of Pokrovsk, Toretsk, and Kharkiv were in the spotlight. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reported via video link that he is currently there and has personal authority over the situation." Details: Military and foreign intelligence reports on the evolution of the situation and the Russian troops' immediate goals were heard at the meeting. They also reviewed the dynamics of Ukrainian drone and missile production, as well as the defence forces' requirement for them till the end of the year. Defence Minister Rustem Umierov, Deputy Prime Minister for Innovation Mykhailo Fedorov, and Minister of Strategic Industries Oleksandr Kamyshin all provided reports. In addition, it was decided to allocate additional funds to the Ukrainian missile programme. "There will be more missiles of our own production," the president underlined. Umierov also reported on the provision of other brigades with weapons and equipment. "We are actively working with partners," Zelenskyy stated. Support UP or become our patron! Is Fort Mill becoming a tech startup hub? Several companies named among SCs best A nonprofit looking for the best tech innovation across South Carolina found a handful of top companies in Fort Mill. InnoVision Awards announced 18 finalists for its top annual awards honoring innovation and technology on Monday. Three were Fort Mill companies, and another is based in Indian Land. Columbia also had four companies, and Greenville had three. Combining economic development, education and business partners, InnoVision began more than two decades ago. The nonprofit holds business forums statewide and recognizes companies that produce new, innovative products. Last year, Fort Mill had a finalist in InnoVisions sustainability category with Gravity Driven, a company whose products convert movement in a vehicle into electricity. Now Fort Mill township companies are up for tech awards in development, integration, sustainability and community service. Heres more on each of the local companies: New Forge Tech is up for the technology development award. The Fort Mill software company uses artificial intelligence and augmented reality to connect workers with troubleshooting options. New Forge Tech can turn manuals or schematics into clear, downloadable instructions or connect workers at a manufacturing site to machine technicians using smart glasses. Then located in Rock Hill, New Forge was accepted four years ago as a South Carolina Research Authority client company and received a $50,000 demonstration grant the following year. Last year research authority investment arm SC Launch awarded New Forge a $250,000 grant to grow work in manufacturing and healthcare fields. More info: newforgetech.com Delta Bravo AI uses artificial intelligence to increase production in manufacturing. Also a former Rock Hill company with startup ties to the tech incubator program at Knowledge Park, Fort Mill-based Delta Bravo is up for a technology integration award. South Carolina Research Authority added Delta Bravo as a client in its entrepreneurial program in 2017. A $50,000 acceleration grant followed in 2018. More info: deltabravo.ai Secure Process Intelligence creates personalized dashboards for the municipal and industrial water, oil, gas, environmental monitoring and food production industries. Cloud platforms allow remote diagnosis of hardware to optimize operations. The company was nominated for a sustainability award. The company was accepted early last year as a member by the state research authority. Within six months it received a $25,000 SC Launch project development grant and a $50,000 acceleration grant. More info: sp-i4.com My Voluntier is an Indian Land-based company nominated for a community service award. It provides a web app to find, track and mobilize people for various community service functions. Organizations, institutions and volunteers can use it. People also can search for service opportunities in their area. My Voluntier became a research authority member company in May. More info: myvoluntier.com Fort Mill companies impact others in the region The startup scene in Fort Mill and Rock Hill has a larger impact than just the thriving small businesses. They often work with much larger companies to improve their businesses, too. The New Forge client list includes Rock Hill machining company Winbro Group Technologies. Delta Bravo lists several clients with headquarters in the region, from Comporium and air compressor company Atlas Copco in Rock Hill to Schaeffler Group in Fort Mill, Continental in Indian Land and the Nucor steel company in Charlotte. The area tech companies also support larger businesses in other parts of South Carolina. Their success and the innovative services and software they provide not only support local manufacturers but also major industries such as automotive and pharmaceuticals, said David Swenson, York County Economic Development director. How home-care company Griswold reduced employee turnover by 20% with the help of AI How home-care company Griswold reduced employee turnover by 20% with the help of AI Griswold uses AI to reduce turnover rates and improve caregiver experience. The platform rewards employees for completing tasks and can predict when a caregiver might quit. This article is part of "CXO AI Playbook" straight talk from business leaders on how they're testing and using AI. Griswold is a home-care company that assigns caregivers to older people to help with daily living in their homes. Founded in 1982 and headquartered outside Philadelphia, Griswold operates eight locations and has about 150 franchises in more than 30 states. Situation analysis: What problem was the company trying to solve? Michael Slupecki, the CEO of Griswold, said turnover rates in the home-care industry have been increasing nationwide, especially in the wake of COVID-19. Slupecki said that in the past few years, Griswold's turnover rate had reached about 80% annually in the locations it operates in Pennsylvania. Finding and replacing caregivers is costly for the company and affects the care clients receive. "There's a high correlation between consistency in the caregiver workforce and client satisfaction, which goes to your reputation, which goes to the strength of your business in attracting more clients and more caregivers," Slupecki said. Griswold wanted to improve caregiver experience, reduce turnover, and predict which helpers were most likely to quit, he said. Last year, the organization started using TeamEngage, a system created by WellSky, a health and community-care tech company, and powered by Ava, an artificial-intelligence platform. The tool incentivizes and rewards caregivers for completing activities and reaching goals. Key staff and partners Katherine Schiavino, the chief financial officer at Griswold, and the company's human-resources team determined which metrics would be used to recognize caregivers, such as being on time for work, taking extra shifts, and referring new caregivers. They also decided on a point system for rewards, she said. Katherine Schiavino is the chief financial officer at Griswold. Courtesy of Griswold AI in action The AI tool automatically assigns points to caregivers when they complete activities or achieve goals, Schiavino said. For example, if they clock in on time or accept a shift to fill in for someone, the system gives them points. They also receive points for their birthdays and work anniversaries. The points can be redeemed for gift cards, such as for Starbucks, or a preloaded Mastercard, she said. When caregivers receive a reward, it's announced on a community platform in the system, which others can see. And their colleagues can congratulate them there. Employee recognition used to be a manual process, but office staff sometimes lacked the capacity to consistently celebrate caregivers, Slupecki said. The AI tool automates honoring these milestones and minimizes the administrative workload, ensuring that caregivers' work isn't overlooked. Michael Slupecki is the CEO of Griswold. Courtesy of Griswold "It helps reach out to all of our caregivers and recognize them in a way that they should be recognized," he said. The AI platform also tracks and analyzes factors that might contribute to caregivers quitting so the company can find solutions to retain them, Slupecki said. For instance, it identifies those who haven't had a rate increase recently or who've been assigned a client who lives a long driving distance away. Did it work? Griswold has reduced turnover by about 20% in the locations it owns since it started using TeamEngage in October, Slupecki said. Schiavino attributed that to the reward system and to how the tool helps identify caregivers who need extra encouragement. For example, someone might be arriving at a client's home on time but not clocking in right away so the system notifies the company and caregiver that they're late. The system will then automatically incentivize the caregiver to change their behavior. Receiving recognition on the community platform has improved morale and fostered a sense of community, which is important since caregivers work in client homes and don't typically gather together, Schiavino said. The AI tool has also helped Griswold increase employee referrals since caregivers earn points when they recommend others for the job. What's next? Griswold is using TeamEngage across the locations it runs in Pennsylvania which employ about 400 caregivers and in a few franchises, Slupecki said. The company said it planned to discuss the tool's benefits at its franchise conference in August to encourage more franchises to improve their turnover, he said. "It's worked really well for our caregivers," Schiavino said. "They've really connected with this." Read the original article on Business Insider Massive new undersea cable approved to provide electricity for 2 countries as well as over $10 billion in economic value Sun power from above may soon be captured Down Under and sent 2,671 miles northwest to Singapore via an underwater cable, providing renewable electricity to northern Australia along the way. SunCable, the project's developer, announced in July that the effort has cleared key government approvals. That paves the way for the next planning stage, with the goal of sending power through the line early in the 2030s. "SunCable is founded with the belief that Australia can lead the world's energy transition," Cameron Garnsworthy, managing director of the renewable energy company, said in a press release. The project is called the Australia-Asia PowerLink. The onus for its development is to capitalize on the country's massive potential all 58 million petajoules of solar energy. That's enough juice to cover the world's electricity needs 100 times over, all per the company. The plan, which involves a solar farm covering more than 29,000 acres, the sea-spanning transmission line, and storage, will set world renewable energy and Australian economic development records. It will provide about 15% of Singapore's electricity needs 24/7, all per SunCable and the Australian government. Garnsworthy indicated in the press release that it's part of an even bigger cleaner energy vision. "This will underpin a new wave of green industrial development in the (Northern Territory), via prospective projects that include green minerals, hydrogen, e-fuels, and data centers," he said. This is just one of a burst of big solar projects making headlines worldwide. In June, a 5.2-million-panel solar farm in China was turned on. In the U.S., Adapture Renewables is working with Meta on utility-scale solar installations to offset energy demand for the tech company's data centers. The projects are important, as they prove that sun energy can reliably be caught, stored, and used on the grid, reducing heat-trapping air pollution from fossil-burning sources. Data collector Statista reports that about 5.5% of the world's electricity is generated from the sun's rays. The potential is great, as noted by a bar graph with the report. There's been a steep incline since 2010, when well under a percent of the planet's power was solar. In Australia, developers estimate that the power link will provide more than $13 billion in "economic value" in the country's Northern Territory, from construction through more than three decades of operation. What's more, there will be about 6,800 direct and indirect jobs created for each year of construction. "This future-facing project will invest deeply in local communities in the Northern Territory from Central Australia to the Top End, as we create many thousands of local jobs, skill up Australian workers, and offer a host of opportunities for local businesses and suppliers," Garnsworthy said in the press release. As more large farms go online, homeowners in other regions will have greater opportunities to take part in community solar programs. These are subscriptions or investments in solar operations, allowing residents to reap savings from the projects without installing panels at home. Some quick online research can lead to an average savings of $150 a year. For now, the power link's developers are moving to the next planning stage. They may eventually add wind power to the mix, according to the press release. "This approval allows us to progress the development, commercial, and engineering activities required to advance the project," Garnsworthy said. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. One New Jersey teenager recently used gene-editing technology to create a rice plant that could be more resilient and easier to grow, Science News Explores reported. High school senior Nandini Rastogi, who is only 18 years old, showcased her breakthrough at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. She used CRISPR, a gene-editing tool that scientists are using to edit specific traits into plants, to insert growth-promoting properties into rice plants. While the plants already had the capability to trigger these biological processes such as elongating their roots in search of more water in times of stress, Rastogi made it so that the processes were active at all times, creating plants that grew more quickly and became more resilient. Making the challenge even more difficult was the fact that Rastogi was unable to work on live plants. "Because of strict government regulations, I'm not actually allowed to perform gene edits on live plants," she said. Instead, she edited cells that were removed from the plants and then observed them to see if certain proteins were activated, which they were. "That tells us that if we were to perform the edits on the live plant, there would be an increase in stress tolerance," Rastogi said. Pollution, planetary overheating, and human-caused changes to weather patterns are all making growing crops increasingly difficult. Certain regions that had once been ideal for growing a crop may now be too hot, while many other regions have been hit with massive droughts that have wiped out food supplies. As a result, scientists around the world are using CRISPR gene-editing technology to create versions of common crops that are able to withstand harsh conditions. These include fruits that can combat drought, tomatoes that need less water, and plants that can withstand frost, to name a few. While it is still vital that we reverse the course of the planetary overheating and air pollution that is threatening the global food supply mainly by moving away from dirty energy sources such as gas and oil and toward clean, renewable sources such as wind and solar more resilient crops could become very important in the near term. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. New Delhi: This announcement comes on the heels of his previous successes, Iambuddha and the critically lauded The Tashkent Files and The Kashmir Files. The news was shared via his official social media channels earlier today, marking a pivotal moment for the ambitious project. Agnihotri's announcement is particularly noteworthy as it includes a casting call for the lead actress of The Delhi Files. In a video posted on Instagram, Agnihotri detailed the criteria for the role. He is seeking an Indian actress between the ages of 18 and 25 who possesses a strong command of Hindi and can deliver the language with precision. While there is a slight preference for Bengali candidates, Agnihotri emphasized that these criteria are flexible. The primary focus remains on finding an actress with exceptional acting skills capable of bringing depth and authenticity to the role. In his announcement, Agnihotri expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support his previous films have received. He acknowledged the role of the talented cast in bringing his impactful stories to life and thanked audiences for their enthusiastic response, which has significantly contributed to the success of his previous projects. Vivek Agnihotri has been celebrated for his compelling storytelling and the exploration of important historical and social themes. The Delhi Files is anticipated to continue this tradition, promising to be a thought-provoking and powerful cinematic experience. Aspiring actresses who align with the criteria are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to be a part of a film that is set to make a significant impact. Following the success of The Kashmir Files, Agnihotri once again collaborates with prolific producer Abhishek Agarwal, who will be producing The Delhi Files under his banner, Abhishek Agarwal Arts. Fans and critics alike are eagerly awaiting what promises to be another milestone in Agnihotris illustrious career. Mumbai: Sanjay Dutt has been replaced from Son Of Sardaar 2 as the actor's UK visa has been rejected due to his criminal record history. Sanjay Dutt was a part of Son Of Sardaar starring Ajay Devgn and Sonakshi Sinha in the lead role. It is suggested that Laapataa Ladies actor Ravi Kishen has replaced Sanjay Dutt in the film. Son of Sardar 2 features Mrunal Thakur as the female lead and the first leg of the shoot has begun in Scotland UK, and due to Dutt's visa being rejected over his 1993 blast case, he got dropped from the film. As per a report in Hindustan Times, "Ever since his arrest in 1993, while Sanju has travelled to the US, he has applied for a UK visa multiple times but never got one. The Son of Sardaar 2 shoot would have been his first trip to the UK. However, after Ajays team found out that the senior actors visa request had been rejected, they replaced him with Ravi Kishen". Earlier Sanjay Dutt's film Housefull 5 too faced the same issue as the entire cast had to shoot in the US, however, producer Sajid Nadiadwala made a wise decision and sent the entire cast to the US and kept Dutt's portion in Mumbai. Sanjay Dutt was arrested under TADA and the Arms Act in 1993. Later he was convicted and sentenced to 5 5-year jail term for keeping illegal weapons. The actor is a free man today there has been no criminal charges against him. New Delhi: Amazon India head and country manager Manish Tiwary has resigned from the company to pursue other opportunities. He ended an eight-year association with the global e-commerce major. Manish Tiwary will continue with Amazon until October to help ensure a smooth transition. He joined the company in 2016 and spent four years as vice president before being elevated to country manager in 2020. Moreover, he led the consumer and seller services vertical for four years. Before joining Amazon, he served as the managing director of Unilevers Gulf business. "Manish Tiwary, Country Manager for Amazon India, has decided to pursue an opportunity outside of the company. Manish's leadership over the last eight years has been instrumental in delivering for customers and sellers, making Amazon. In the preferred marketplace in India," Amazon India statement said. It further said that Amit Agarwal, senior Vice President of India and Emerging Markets, will remain closely involved with the Amazon.In team. India is an important priority for the company, Amazon emphasised. "We are excited by the momentum and business results we have already achieved, and we are even more optimistic about the significant opportunities ahead to innovate on behalf of our customers and digitally transform lives and livelihoods," the statement said. The company further added: "Amit Agarwal, SVP India and Emerging Markets, will remain closely involved with the Amazon.In team, guiding its strong bench of leaders to deliver on this opportunity". (With Inputs From PTI) Are you ready to embark on a musical journey around the globe? Let's explore the rich and diverse music traditions that define cultures and communities worldwide. 1. Latin American Rhythms: From the lively beats of salsa in Cuba to the passionate tango in Argentina, Latin American music is a vibrant tapestry of rhythms and melodies. The fusion of African, Indigenous, and European influences creates a unique sound that ignites the soul and gets people dancing. 2. Indian Classical Music: Deeply rooted in ancient traditions, Indian classical music is a spiritual and intricate art form. With its ragas, talas, and improvisational nature, this music tradition transcends boundaries and connects listeners to a higher realm of consciousness. 3. African Drumming: The heartbeat of Africa resonates through its diverse drumming traditions. From the djembe in West Africa to the talking drums of Nigeria, rhythm is at the core of African music, communicating stories, emotions, and cultural heritage through the powerful language of percussion. 4. Celtic Folk Music: Journey to the green hills of Ireland and Scotland, where Celtic folk music weaves tales of love, loss, and resilience. With its fiddles, flutes, and haunting melodies, Celtic music captures the spirit of the land and its people, inviting listeners to join in the ancient storytelling tradition. 5. Japanese Taiko Drumming: Experience the thunderous energy of taiko drumming, a traditional Japanese art form that combines powerful rhythms with theatrical performances. The deep resonance of the drums reverberates through the soul, embodying strength, discipline, and unity. By delving into the diverse music traditions of the world, we gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural tapestry that unites humanity. Each rhythm, melody, and lyric tells a story of heritage, identity, and resilience, reminding us of the universal language of music that transcends borders and connects us all. August is here and India is eagerly anticipating the long weekends sparking a flurry of humorous memes and posts on social media. With Independence Day on August 15 and the festival of Raksha Bandhan on August 19, many Indians are gearing up for a five-day holiday. This extended break is a cause for excitement for those looking forward to relaxation and travel. Social media platforms these days are filled with humorous memes and relatable posts about the joys of the upcoming long weekend. Students and employees alike expressing their hopes and disappointments online, creating a snapshot of the nation's collective mood. As the country prepares to celebrate significant occasions, many are planning to extend their break by taking sick leave. The internet is buzzing with memes and videos showcasing this tactic. The First Long Weekend: Independence Day The first long weekend begins on Thursday, August 15. This allows employees to enjoy a five-day break from Friday, August 16, to Monday, August 19, which includes Raksha Bandhan. Thursday, August 15: Independence Day and Parsi New Year Friday, August 16: Take the day off Saturday, August 17: Weekend Sunday, August 18: Weekend Monday, August 19: Raksha Bandhan August Plans 15 - Independence Day 16 - Not feeling well taking off 17 - Weekend 18 - Weekend 19 - Raksha Bandhan Holiday 20 - Feeling very weak taking off 21 - Going to lab for tests 22 - Doc told to take rest 23 - Somewhat better 24 - Weekend 25 - Weekend 26 - Janmastami Backpacking Daku (@outofofficedaku) August 1, 2024 The Second Long Weekend: Janmashtami Celebration The second long weekend starts on Saturday, August 24, and continues through Janmashtami on Monday, August 26. Saturday, August 24: Weekend Sunday, August 25: Weekend Monday, August 26: Janmashtami However, not everyone has the luxury of a Monday-to-Friday workweek, and many offices operate six days a week. Additionally, some workplaces do not recognize Raksha Bandhan as a holiday. New Delhi: The government is chairing an all-party meeting on Tuesday to assess and strategize its stance regarding the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government in neighboring Bangladesh amid ongoing violent protests. Sheikh Hasina's 15-year tenure as Bangladesh's prime minister concluded on Monday as she fled the country after more than a month of violent protests. The military has announced plans to establish an interim government. According to the Dhaka Tribune, at least 135 people were killed in Bangladesh on Monday amid unrest involving police shootings, mob violence, and widespread arson across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been updated on the situation in Bangladesh by Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar. However, it remains unclear if Modi will meet with Hasina, who has taken refuge in India for over 15 hours now. Historically, women have contributed to the advancement of the society. They have multiple roles in the society. All women are conducting a seamless handling of these roles. About IIW SHE Inspires Award The main idea behind the SHE Inspired award is to bring forward women who have never been in the limelight before. Inspiring Indian Women identifies and celebrates the contributions many women have made. The occasion honours a broad group of women from all walks of life. MP Bob Blackman hosted the award at the House of Parliaments, UK. The event was co-sponsored by Policy Ghar, under the leadership of Mamit Agarwal and Umang Kalra. The event was hosted in two parts: THE IIW DHARMA DUBEY SPECIAL AWARDS This award was given to a total number of 35 women, who made remarkable journeys throughout their lives. This award was given to a total number of 35 women, who made remarkable journeys throughout their lives. THE IIW SHE INSPIRES SPECIAL AWARDSThe awards were presented to a final list of 45 women, after two rounds of separate scrutiny. Importance of IIW SHE Inspire Award Awards and recognitions have their significance. The initiative undertaken by Inspiring Indian Women, are a significant step in empowering women. The award is conducted at the right time when there are global outcries and violence against women and femininity. The award is an inspiration for many women who fight silently against the atrocities committed against them daily. Some of the main reasons for the significance of the IIW SHE Inspires Award are: Celebrating the Silent QueensJust like Women's Day is an important event, the IIW SHE Inspire award, too, has to be celebrated. Sponsored through Policy Ghar, the program gave priority to the silent fight put up by many women. That woman could be your mother, sister, wife, or anyone else you know. Not all the struggles come to the limelight. A woman thrives in multiple roles, handling different issues. The event is a tribute to all those whose strengths are not recognized. A way aheadThe IIW SHE Inspires award sponsored by Policy Ghar showcases the necessity of celebrating women. The awards are given to women from the underprivileged category of society. By addressing the nearly invisible section of society, Inspiring Indian Women addresses the neglect shown by society towards them. They also offer a platform for discussing a potential path ahead for women as a collective, which makes the event even brighter. ConnectionAnother significant aspect of the event is the connection it provides between Indian women from all over the world. By doing this, Inspiring Indian Women offers companionship and care to women, leading to their own empowerment as a collective. The connections achieved through the event can inspire more women to join the collective, which paves the way for stronger resistance. ReflectionThe event is a crucial reminder to society to reflect on themselves. It also enables women to reflect on their journeys. IIW SHE Inspire awards sponsored by Policy Ghar offer a platform for discussing the major issues women face today and attempting to resolve them. Selection Process There are two rounds of evaluations for the nominees. For the parliament, a total number between 40 and 50 are selected. The selection committee is highly selective in the process. The awards sponsored by Policy Ghar are given to women from ordinary backgrounds who don't have any kind of privileged influence in society. Family members can nominate their relatives for the awards. The nominations are open to everyone. Some of the prominent categories include- Special Mom/Best Homemaker, Community Spirit, Champion of Earth, Spirited Fighter, Simply Special Nani, Super Special Couple, Differently Abled, etc. Guests List: Some of the prominent figures who have graced the occasion include: Lord Brennan Former Chairman of the Bar Council of England and Wales, President of the British-Spanish Parliamentary Group and President of Canning House. Mr Ajay Kumar Thakur Attache (Coordination), High Commission of India. Honourable MP Joy Morrissey Conservative MP for Beaconsfield Honourable MP Shailesh Vara Honourable MP Theresa Villiers Conservative MP for Chipping Barnet Honourable MP Elliot Colburn from Sutton. Honourable MP Jonathan Lord from Woking. Cllr Sunil Chopra Former Mayor Southwark. Prof Parag Singhal- Consultant Endocrinologist, Founder Director Our NHS: Our Concern, Chief Executive BTA, Member Clinical Senate Cllr D Sunger Chairman of Epping Forest and a very successful Businessman. Krishna Pujara- CEO, Saheli; Chair, Domestic Abuse Forum; President, UK-India Business Council WICCI; Chair, ALL UK PRO; NCGO Sec; Sardar Patel UK. (This article is part of IndiaDotCom Pvt Ltds Consumer Connect Initiative, a paid publication programme. IDPL claims no editorial involvement and assumes no responsibility, liability or claims for any errors or omissions in the content of the article. The IDPL Editorial team is not responsible for this content.) New Delhi: The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, joined leaders from various political parties at an all-party meeting convened by the central government on Tuesday to address the ongoing situation in Bangladesh. During the conference, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar briefed about the situation in Bangladesh. Jaishankar said that India is closely monitoring the developments. During the meeting, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi questioned the potential involvement of foreign forces in the worsening situation of the Bangladesh government. He also asked if there were anti-India sentiments among the protesters. Meanwhile, the opposition party is satisfied with the government's response and stands by the current situation. Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended. pic.twitter.com/tiitk5M5zn Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 6, 2024 "Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended," Jaishankar posted on X after the meeting. Addressing political party leaders in Parliament House, Jaishankar stated that India is coordinating with the Bangladesh Army to ensure the safety of over 10,000 Indian students in the country. Sources say that at least 8,000 Indian nationals have returned so far. Congress MP Karti P Chidambaram told ANI, "It is a good step that the External Affairs Minister is briefing all party members; we welcome that move. We are completely with the government as far as the national security and safety of our citizens are considered. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned from her position on Monday amid escalating protests and arrived at Hindon Air Base near New Delhi in a C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft. According to the Dhaka Tribune, at least 135 people were killed in Bangladesh on Monday due to police firings, mob beatings, and widespread arson across the country. India is closely monitoring the situation of minorities in Bangladesh and maintains "close and continuous" contact with the Indian community there via its diplomatic missions, the government announced on Tuesday. In statements made in both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed India's deep concern for the restoration of law and order in the neighboring country and mentioned that India's border forces have been instructed to stay exceptionally vigilant due to the complex and evolving situation. Here's what Jaishankar Said On Bangladesh Crisis, Hasina's Sudden Arrival: Jaishankar addressed the MPs regarding the sudden request by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to visit India "for the moment." Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening aboard a Bangladesh Air Force aircraft, likely en route to London or another European destination, following her resignation as prime minister amid the country descending into uncertainty after violent protests over job quotas. "On August 5, despite a curfew, demonstrators gathered in Dhaka. It is understood that following a meeting with security establishment leaders, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina decided to resign. She then requested, at very short notice, to come to India temporarily," Jaishankar explained. "The request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities was received concurrently. She arrived in Delhi last evening. The situation in Bangladesh continues to develop," he added. Jaishankar also noted that on August 5, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman addressed the nation, discussing the assumption of responsibility and the formation of an interim government. "The Indian community in Bangladesh, estimated at 19,000, of which approximately 9,000 are students, is being closely monitored through our diplomatic missions. However, the majority of these students returned to India in July," the external affairs minister informed. In terms of India's diplomatic presence, in addition to the High Commission in Dhaka, it has assistant high commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna and Sylhet, he informed both the Houses. "It is our expectation that the host government will provide the required security protection for these establishments. We look forward to their normal functioning once the situation stabilizes," Jaishankar said. Jaishankar Says India Monitoring Minorities' Situation In Bangladesh He said India is also monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being, he said. "We welcome that, but will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored. Our border guarding forces have also been instructed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation," Jaishankar said. Over the past day, India has maintained regular communication with Dhaka authorities. The External Affairs Minister sought the House's understanding and support on sensitive matters concerning a key neighbor, emphasizing the longstanding national consensus on this issue. Minister Jaishankar highlighted the enduring closeness of India-Bangladesh relations, spanning many governments and decades. He expressed shared concerns over the recent unrest and instability in Bangladesh, cutting across political lines. He detailed the tensions, divisions, and polarization in Bangladesh's politics post the January 2024 elections, which fueled student protests beginning in June. The escalating violence, targeting public infrastructure and disrupting transport, persisted into July. The minister reported ongoing efforts to promote restraint and resolve the situation through dialogue, engaging with various political entities. Despite a Supreme Court ruling on July 21 to modify the government job quota system, public dissent continued. The minister noted that subsequent decisions further inflamed the situation, culminating in demands for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation. On August 4, the situation escalated dramatically with intensified attacks on police and state infrastructure, leading to heightened violence nationwide. He raised particular concern over the targeting of properties linked to the ruling regime and the worrying impact on minorities. The travel plans of Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, to London have encountered unexpected delays due to some uncertainties, and it appears she will remain in India for a few more days, according to sources. After her resignation, Hasina arrived at Hindon airbase via a C-130J military transport aircraft and has since been moved to a secure, undisclosed location. Sheikh Hasina, along with her sister Sheikh Rehana, had initially intended to seek temporary refuge in London after leaving India. However, this plan has been put on hold following indications from the UK government that she might not receive legal immunity in the event of an investigation into the recent violent protests in Bangladesh. The intention to travel to London was communicated to Indian authorities prior to her arrival at Hindon, as Hasina aimed to join her niece Tulip Siddiq, who serves as the economic secretary to the Treasury and is a Labour MP for Hampstead and Highgate in the UK Parliament. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has called for a comprehensive UN-led inquiry into the violence and loss of life in Bangladesh over the past fortnight, asserting that the people deserve a full and independent investigation. Hasina has reportedly informed New Delhi of her potential next moves and is also considering Finland as a destination, where she has family connections. Reports indicate that Hasina's travel plans have encountered issues, potentially extending her stay in the country for a few more days. The situation is described as dynamic, lacking a clear direction or resolution. The 76-year-old, who governed the South Asian nation with a firm hand for 15 years, stepped down as prime minister amid vast protests. What started as opposition to a job quota scheme evolved into a widespread movement calling for her removal from office. The contentious quota system allocated 30 percent of civil service positions to the descendants of those who fought in the 1971 war of liberation. Despite opposition boycotts, Hasina's Awami League maintained control in the January parliamentary elections. The ex-prime minister departed from her official residence, Ganabhavan, via a military helicopter to an airbase. Subsequently, she was transported to Hindon aboard a C-130 military aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force, according to sources. Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen has voiced a scathing critique of Sheikh Hasina amid the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh. Nasreen, who has been living in exile since 1994, finds a poignant irony in Hasinas current predicament. "Hasina threw me out of Bangladesh to please Islamists, who have now forced her out," she remarked in a post on X, highlighting a twist of fate that underscores the complexities of Bangladesh's political landscape. Nasreen's expulsion from Bangladesh in the 1990s was largely due to her outspoken views on religion and her criticism of Islamist extremism, which made her a target for radical groups. She believes that Hasina, in an attempt to consolidate power and placate Islamist factions, compromised on principles of secularism and democracy. This compromise, according to Nasreen, has now come back to haunt Hasina. Hasina in order to please Islamists threw me out of my country in 1999 after I entered Bangladesh to see my mother in her deathbed and never allowed me to enter the country again. The same Islamists have been in the student movement who forced Hasina to leave the country today. taslima nasreen (@taslimanasreen) August 5, 2024 Hasinas recent ousting follows a period of escalating unrest in Bangladesh. The protests, initially sparked by economic grievances and allegations of corruption, have been further inflamed by Islamist groups. Nasreen argues that Hasinas government allowed these groups to gain influence, which ultimately contributed to the current turmoil. By turning a blind eye to the growing power of Islamist factions, Hasina sowed the seeds of her own downfall. The authors critique extends to the broader political environment in Bangladesh. Nasreen contends that both major political parties, the Awami League led by Hasina and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), have failed to uphold the principles of secularism and democracy. She calls for a fundamental shift in the countrys governance, emphasising the need for a new political framework that prioritizes human rights, freedom of expression, and secular values. In an earlier post, Nasreen had said, "Hasina had to resign and leave the country. She was responsible for her situation. She made Islamists to grow. She allowed her people to get involved in corruption. Now Bangladesh must not become like Pakistan. Army must not rule. Political parties should bring democracy and secularism." Hasina had to resign and leave the country. She was responsible for her situation. She made Islamists to grow. She allowed her people to involve in corruption. Now Bangladesh must not become like Pakistan. Army must not rule.Political parties should bring democracy & secularism. taslima nasreen (@taslimanasreen) August 5, 2024 While Nasreen's comments are a reflection of her long-standing opposition to Islamist influence and her advocacy for secularism, they also resonate with many who are frustrated by the current state of affairs in Bangladesh. Her perspective adds a critical voice to the discourse surrounding the country's future, highlighting the urgent need for reforms that address both political corruption and religious extremism. Under the cover of clashes after Sheikh Hasina's exile from Bangladesh, Islamist extremists have taken advantage of the political turmoil to unleash a wave of terror and violence against the Hindu community. Several reports from across the country show extremists vandalising and looting Hindu temples and houses. Islamist groups, taking advantage of the weak leadership, have capitalised on the moment to attack the Hindu minority, who have faced ongoing discrimination and persecution in the predominantly Muslim country. BREAKING: More and more videos coming out of Bangladesh, showing local Islamists taking advantage of the chaos in the country to attack the homes of the Hindu community in the country ____ pic.twitter.com/jiGwd3UXF1 - Visegrad 24 (@visegrad24) August 5, 2024 Between 1964 and 2013, approximately 11 million Hindus have emigrated from the country. This represents a 14 percent decline in the Hindu population compared to 1951. Violence Against Bangladeshi Hindus Hindu councillor Hardhan Roy from Rangpur City Corporation, a member of the Awami League party, was shot dead amid violent clashes between thousands of Bangladeshi protesters and government supporters. The protesters, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, engaged in intense confrontations that led to Roy's fatal shooting, heightening tensions and unrest in the region. According to local media reports, miscreants also targeted ISKCON Temple and Kali temples. Hindu temples are being burnt. Hindu women are being r@ped. Hindu men, women & children are being killed. Hindus in Bangladesh facing burburism of Jamaat-e-Islami. This is what happens when Hindus become minority. Bangladesh has become Pakistan for Hindus. We can only cry _ pic.twitter.com/6qfzDI7Deb - Baba Banaras_ (@RealBababanaras) August 5, 2024 Videos and eyewitness reports from the affected areas reveal severe atrocities. As per reports, Hindu women are being kidnapped and taken to unknown locations, while their homes are looted and burned. And the genocide of Hindus by IsIamists in #Bangladesh continues... They're openly burning the Hindu's houses, kiIIing them, abducting women...... Forget condemning, so called seculars are rejoicing it...#AllEyesOnBangladeshiHindus pic.twitter.com/FcmLDZ5GNa - Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) August 5, 2024 Sheikh Hasina's 15-year tenure as Bangladesh's prime minister concluded on Monday as she fled the country after more than a month of violent protests. The military has announced plans to establish an interim government. According to the Dhaka Tribune, at least 135 people were killed in Bangladesh on Monday amid unrest involving police shootings, mob violence, and widespread arson across the country. Bangladesh is currently going through one of the major political turmoil in history. The government collapsed and PM Sheikh Hasina had to resign from her power and leave the country because of students' protests. These protests were led by Nahid Islam, who is being largely credited for this turmoil in Bangladesh. He is a prominent student leader and national coordinator for the Students Against Discrimination Movement, has emerged as a pivotal figure in the recent political upheaval in Bangladesh. His leadership and relentless activism led to the resignation and subsequent departure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after nearly a month of nationwide anti-quota and anti-government demonstrations. How Did Nahid Islam Rise To Prominence? Nahid Islam is currently pursuing his studies in the Sociology Department at Dhaka University. He is also a dedicated human rights defender, known for his vocal stance against systemic injustices. His involvement in the Students Against Discrimination Movement began in response to the Supreme Court of Bangladesh's decision in June 2024 to reinstate a 30% quota for descendants of war veterans and freedom fighters in government jobs. The movement argued that this quota was discriminatory and a tool for political manipulation. Leading the Charge As one of the national coordinators of the movement, Nahid played a critical role in organizing protests and mobilizing students. He has been particularly outspoken against the Awami League, labeling them as "terrorists" and urging students to take up arms if necessary. His fiery rhetoric and steadfast commitment to the cause inspired many to join the protests. According to the reports, on July 19, 2024, Nahid Islam was abducted by a group of at least 25 men in plain clothes from a house in Sabujbagh. He was blindfolded, handcuffed, and subjected to torture during interrogations about his involvement in the protests. Two days later, he was found unconscious and battered under a bridge in Purbachal. Despite this harrowing experience, Nahid continued to lead the movement with even greater determination. On July 26, 2024, he was kidnapped a second time from Gonoshasthaya Nagar Hospital in Dhanmondi by individuals claiming to be from various intelligence agencies, including the Dhaka Metropolitan Police's Detective Branch. However, the police denied any involvement in these incidents. Despite the continuous threats and violence, Nahid Islam's protests gained momentum, leading to turmoil in Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina's resignation and departure marked a significant victory for the people's movement, largely credited to Nahid's influence. New Delhi: This news has sparked considerable excitement in the film industry and among audiences. SSMB29, the eagerly awaited film directed by Rajamouli, is currently in pre-production. Amidst growing speculation that Vikram might play the antagonist in the film, the actor recently addressed these rumors during a media interaction in Hyderabad, just ahead of the release of Thangalaan. Vikram stated, "Rajamouli garu is a good friend. We have been talking for a while now. Of course, we will be doing a film sometime." While he neither confirmed nor denied the collaboration, his hint has only fueled the buzz surrounding this exciting partnership. The prospect of Vikram and Rajamouli joining forces promises a cinematic spectacle of grand proportions, adding to the already high anticipation for their project. Meanwhile, excitement continues to build for Thangalaan, directed by Pa. Ranjith featuring Vikram alongside Malavika Mohanan. The film, set against the backdrop of Kolar Gold Fields, explores a historical narrative with a unique concept, offering a fresh cinematic experience. Scheduled for a global release on August 15, 2024, Thangalaan will be available in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam. The film's music is composed by GV Prakash Kumar, further adding to the anticipation. As fans eagerly await both Thangalaan and the forthcoming collaboration between Vikram and Rajamouli, the future of South Indian cinema looks promisingly bright. New Delhi: In a recent viral moment, Rashmika Mandanna paused an ongoing interview to interact with a fan who was visibly upset after being pushed away by a security guard. The fan, holding a sketch he had made, was moved to tears whereas Rashmika took a moment to carefully examine the fans artwork, signed an autograph, and ensured that the fan was okay, displaying a rare level of compassion and attentiveness. The moment can be viewed here: Here are moments where Rashmika Mandanna has won hearts, demonstrating her endearing personality in various memorable encounters: 1. Mumbai Airport Magic: At Mumbai Airport, Rashmika had a delightful interaction with a young fan who excitedly pulled her cheeks. In return, Mandanna leaned in for a kiss on the cheek and posed for a photo, making the young girls day unforgettable. Watch the video: 2. Selfie on the Go: Even while in route to another commitment, Rashmika took the time to grant a fans selfie request, showing her approachable and accommodating demeanor. 3. Playful Moments: Rashmika showcased her playful side by engaging with a group of young girls. After sharing some sweet words, she embraced them with hugs and kisses, proving her fun-loving and affectionate nature. Watch the video: Powered by how to embed a youtube video and yatzy ark 4. Heartwarming Name Connection: During a public interview, Rashmika had a touching moment with a young fan who shares her name. The encounter included a handshake, a high-five, and a sweet kiss on the cheek, creating a memorable experience for the little admirer. 5. Selfie Joy: An enthusiastic fan got the chance to take a selfie with Rashmika, and the joy on both their faces highlighted the spontaneous and genuine connection she fosters with her supporters. Watch the video: New Delhi: Sheikh Hasina would not make a political comeback, said her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy after the Bangladesh PM fled the country in a chopper on Monday. In an interview with Zee News TV, Joy, who also served as an advisor to his mother, warned that "Bangladesh is going to become the next Pakistan." Now Watch Minorities Get Killed Everyday: Joy Joy, in an interview with Zee News, said, "She (Sheikh Hasina) is 77 years old; it was going to be her last term anyway. She worked very hard to turn the country around from a poor country to a middle-income country that it is now." He added, "You did not want Sheikh Hasina; now watch the minorities getting killed every day." When asked if he could join Bangladesh politics in the near future, he replied, "No, our family has sacrificed three times for this country; now they (the Bangladesh citizens) will get the leader they deserve." He also mentioned that she has been contemplating resignation since Sunday. Joy further claimed that Hasina was responsible for Bangladeshs development and growth. "She has turned Bangladesh around. When she took over power, it was considered a failing state. It was a poor country. Until today, it was considered one of the rising tigers of Asia," Joy said, defending his mother's record in office. He also backed the government's response to protesters, asserting that the use of force was justified due to the violence directed at law enforcement. "You've had policemen beaten to death - 13 just yesterday. So what do you expect the police to do when mobs are beating people to death?" he said. Watch The Interview Here: What Is Happening In Bangladesh Bangladesh is experiencing political turmoil as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned amidst growing protests. Initially sparked by students demanding an end to a government job quota system, the protests evolved into broader anti-government demonstrations. On Sunday, violent clashes in Dhaka resulted in at least 95 deaths, including 14 police officers, and left hundreds injured, according to local media outlet Prothom Alo. Following her resignation, Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening. Her next destination remains uncertain, with some Bangladeshi media outlets speculating she might head to London. Meanwhile, both celebrations and protests erupted across Dhaka and Bangladesh following Hasina's departure with her sister. After she left, many people entered the Prime Minister's residence, Ganabhaban, with reports from Prothom Alo indicating that items were taken from public buildings. How India Responded The Cabinet Committee on Security convened on Monday at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence on Lok Kalyan Marg, where PM Modi was briefed on the situation in Bangladesh. The meeting included Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, along with senior officials. After arriving at Hindon Air Base, Sheikh Hasina met with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to discuss the current situation in Bangladesh and her future plans, according to sources. The Indian Air Force and security agencies are providing her security, and she is being moved to a secure location. Jaishankar updated PM Modi on the political developments in Bangladesh, their conversations lasted for over 15 minutes. In the wake of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation, a massive prison break occurred at Sherpur Jail in Bangladesh, with at least 518 inmates escaping amid escalating chaos on Monday afternoon. According to Zee News TV, the escaped prisoners are reportedly armed. The facility, situated approximately 100 kilometers from the India-Bangladesh border, has prompted heightened security measures in India. The Border Security Force (BSF) has increased its deployment along the border to prevent any potential spillover. Authorities have identified 20 of the escapees as having possible terror affiliations. This is a developing story. Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently at a secret location in India, had planned to fly to London where she owns a residence, similar to former Pakistani PM Nawaz Sharif. However, Hasina will remain in India until she receives assurance from her potential new host country regarding diplomatic immunity, often extended to political leaders or whistleblowers. Hasina reportedly owns a house in London but could not fly there due to the absence of an assurance from the British government regarding diplomatic immunity. The UK government has stated that, in the event of an investigation into the recent Bangladesh protests, Hasina will not be granted immunity. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has called for a comprehensive UN-led inquiry into the recent violence and loss of life in Bangladesh, asserting that the people deserve a thorough and independent investigation. Meanwhile, the United States has reportedly canceled Hasina's visa amid claims that the US deep state or CIA was behind the unrest that led to the overthrow of the Hasina government. Hasina is reportedly seeking asylum in European countries where her relatives live. However, until she receives confirmation, she will continue to be under the protection of New Delhi. Hasina previously stayed in exile in India for six years. The last time Sheikh Hasina sought refuge in India was following the tragic massacre of her family, including her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in 1975. She, along with her husband, children, and sister, lived on Delhi's Pandara Road under an assumed identity from 1975 to 1981. Following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Hindu temples, households, and businesses have been vandalized, women assaulted, and at least two Hindu leaders affiliated with the Awami League party killed in Bangladesh. Hindu minorities have fled to the Indian border seeking refuge, with many taking shelter near the border to save themselves, as reported by Zee News Television. Protesters attacked houses of Hindu minorities across the country, burning everything, including rice and other essential supplies. No police or army personnel came to their rescue, leaving the minorities vulnerable to the attacks. "We have compiled some incidents of vandalism in different parts of the country, exposing the Hindu and other minority communities to anxiety," Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council leader Kajol Debnath told news agency PTI on the margins of a meeting of the group. According to available information, two Hindu leaders, who were incidentally leaders of Hasina's Awami League (AL) party, were killed in north-western Sirajganj and Rangpur, Debnath said, adding that the Council was still gathering more information. Debnath said the attackers "plundered shops, temples, and houses and assaulted Hindu women" while many were injured during the assaults amid the fast-paced political developments following the fall of Hasina's government. A day after Hasina resigned and fled the country following massive protests against her government over quota in government jobs, violence that had started afresh over the weekend continued overnight, leading to a total of over 400 being killed since mid-July. According to the Council leaders, the districts where religious minorities and their households or businesses were attacked include north-eastern Panchagarh, Dinajpur, Rangpur, Bogura, and Sirajganj; northern Sherpur and Kishoreganj; western Jashore, Magura, and Narail, south-western Khulna, Patuakhali, and Satkhira; central Narsingdi, Mymensingh, and Tangail; north-western Lakkhipur, Feni, and Chattogram, and north-eastern Habiganj. "The situation is grave, and Hindus are being continuously attacked across Bangladesh," the Unity Council's general secretary Rana Dasgupta said in a statement earlier. "We urge the army to ensure security for the minorities and bring the perpetrators of the attack to book immediately." Debnath, meanwhile, said they would come up with details on the attacks later Tuesday. On Monday, an Indian cultural centre was vandalized by an unruly mob in Dhaka, and four Hindu temples suffered "minor" damages across the country. The Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre, located in Dhaka's Dhanmondi area, was also damaged by the unruly mob, according to eyewitnesses. The Centre, a Cultural Centre of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations of India, has a library with over 21,000 books in the fields of Indian art, culture, politics, economics, and fiction. Bangladesh Interim Government: Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus referred to Bangladesh as a free country following Sheikh Hasina's resignation after she fled from the country. Muhammad Yunus has agreed to a proposal from the protest movement's coordinators to become the chief advisor of the soon-to-be-formed interim government, as per The Daily Star. A long and weeks of intense and violent anti-quota protests ultimately called for her to step down as prime minister on Monday. We were an occupied country as long as she (Sheikh Hasina) was there. She was behaving like an occupation force, a dictator, a general, controlling everything. Today all the people of Bangladesh feel liberated, Yunus told ThePrint in an interview. Muhammad Yunus, who faces over 190 charges filed by the Awami League government, has accused the departing Sheikh Hasina of tarnishing the legacy of her father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rehman. Known for his contributions to microfinance that have uplifted millions from poverty, Yunus was once considered a potential rival to Hasina for the prime ministers position. The 2006 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Muhammad Yunus, was convicted of embezzling $2 million (over 16 crore rupees) from the workers' welfare fund of Grameen Telecom, one of the companies he established. Yunus claimed that the violence and vandalism by protesters reflect their anger towards Sheikh Hasina and the damage she has caused. He expressed optimism that these same students and young people will guide Bangladesh in a positive direction in the future. In the wake of Sheikh Hasina's removal from power, Bangladesh is experiencing significant unrest. Dramatic footage and breaking news from the region illustrate the severity of the crisis. One particularly striking image shows enraged crowds toppling statues of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of the nation. This act has become a symbol of the larger turmoil engulfing the country. The public's anger, extending beyond Sheikh Hasina to the revered figure of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, has not only shocked observers but also raised questions about the underlying causes of this unrest. The United States has expressed a surprising level of support for the recent changes in Bangladesh. Washington has welcomed the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina, praised the actions of the Bangladeshi military, and shown approval for the new government. In today's DNA, Zee News did a in-depth analysis of United States possible involvement in the upheaval that led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina and speculations surrounding American interests in Bangladesh. This positive stance raises concerns about America's true motivations. Critics argue that the U.S. may be interested in destabilizing Bangladesh to align it with its own strategic objectives, drawing comparisons with its past interventions in countries like Afghanistan and Iraq. Accusations of American interference are not new. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that the U.S. played a role in Sheikh Hasinas removal. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed, has publicly accused the U.S. of undermining Bangladeshs stability and seeking to control its government. This claim is bolstered by previous instances where the U.S. has been implicated in orchestrating regime changes for strategic gain. In a recent meeting, Sheikh Hasina hinted at external pressures, alleging that a foreign power offered her an advantageous deal in exchange for granting permission to build a military base in Bangladesh. While she did not name the country, her description has fueled speculation about American involvement. The timing of her removal, shortly after these allegations, has intensified suspicions. Historically, the U.S. has been linked to several regime changes. Notable examples include the 1953 coup in Iran, the 1960 intervention in Congo, and the 1973 overthrow in Chile. A 2016 Washington Post report suggested that during the Cold War, the U.S. attempted to influence or topple governments in up to 72 countries. More recently, accusations against the U.S. have included claims by former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan that his government was destabilized with American assistance. Watch today's episode of DNA for a detailed analysis on America's alleged involvelment in Bangladesh political turmoil: More than 1,000 signatures have been collected so far to put a proposed plan to merge two Waterloo high schools on the ballot, organizers say. The Waterloo School Board approved the $165 million consolidation plan of Waterloo East and West High Schools at a new school facility Monday in a 5-2 vote. If successful, the plan will turn the old high school locations into two separate middle schools once the high schools combine for the 2028-29 school year. Opponents of the plan, many of whom are employees at the high schools, have created a petition to force the school board to either put the plan on the ballot or abandon it. It need gets 2,300 signatures by Aug. 12 to force a vote. To fund the project, the board approved $165 million in revenue bonds from the districts SAVE funds intended to fund school repairs. The money comes from a 1% statewide sales tax divided between districts on a per-student basis. Supporters and opponents of the plan agree both high schools are dated. Waterloo Community School District Superintendent Jared Smith said the old locations are still usable but moving to the new location avoids the need for routine maintenance expected of older schools. The older you have of any building, theres going to be constant maintenance needs, Smith said. By creating a new space for our 10th through 12th grade students, it addresses their needs, and then it lets us focus on the other grades that need attention in terms of their buildings. Career center access The new location will also give high school students greater access to the districts crown jewel career center, he said. Students will have access to career preparation courses in fields like graphic design or construction, according to the superintendent. While the career center already exists, the distance between the old high school and the center makes traveling in the middle of the day a hassle. If the schools combine, that concern wont be there anymore. Under the plan, the new facility would be built at the current location of Waterloo Central Middle School, about a 12-minute drive or hour-and-a-half walk from the old high schools. Waterloo School Board Member Jonathan Cox, who voted against the plan, said the proposed site has him concerned about the effect consolidation will have on transportation. East and West are pretty much like two neighborhood schools, so you have a lot of kids that walk there. Now were going to turn it around for them to get bused. Weve had a busing problem, Cox said. I just wasnt convinced that they had a plan for it. Cox added that exacerbating transportation problems could make the schools chronic absenteeism issues worse. Smith admitted the sites location is a drawback, but said its still the best path forward. The transportation is not ideal but its the best we could do given the land we have available, he said. The superintendent added that the district guarantees that every teacher will keep their job despite the merger. Were going on record and saying nobody is going to lose their job as a direct result of this project, he said. Some teachers will be relocated to the new school site while others will stay at the old site, Smith said. Consolidation gets mixed grades Petition advocate Shelly Smith, a parent of a current and former Waterloo high school students and no relation to the superintendent, said a project costing as much as this one requires more direct public input. She added that the district spending money building a new school means less money is going toward other schools repair needs. Its a responsibility of the public to vote on spending such a large amount of money, especially when theyre using collected tax sale revenue that was previously designated for school improvements and infrastructure, Shelly Smith said. Jared Smith said while he understands the concerns of those petitioning, consolidating the two schools at the new location is the best option available. We dont have the space available on those campuses. We dont know if we were to repair those buildings, where would we put those students, the superintendent said. What other options do we have? Cox said the district failed to fully educate the public about the long-term plan and the potential effects of consolidation. The why was not fully explained, community benefits were limited and, in my eyes, I thought it would be fiscally irresponsible, Cox said. Shelly Smith said the district has failed to properly inform residents about the meetings to discuss the plan and educate residents about what the consequences of merging are. She added that allowing the public to vote on the plan would ensure more public accountability and trust of the plan. I feel that the school district missed a step in allowing the public to vote in this matter. And for $165 million, thats a heavier responsibility than what I thought I was placing on the school board member that represents my district, Shelly Smith said. I believe putting this to a public vote allows for greater buy in and is more fiscally responsible by the school district. arcgmat03 Hi everyone , Id really appreciate it if anybody could advise me on this : in July this year I resigned from my job to establish my own business and to devote more time for volunteering in my target industry as my post mba target industry is healthcare consultancy. Im confused about what to write on hec essays which mention that we have to write our roles and responsibilities in current job. In essay 1 shall i write about my previous job role from which I resigned and give a brief description of what Im doing now or do i write only about my previous job description or any other way I can write this essay? Id be really grateful for any kind of advise regarding this. Hi. It is not uncommon to be in this situation. The reason for this essay is not to inform the Adcom a doubt your details but to get a sense of how senior position was and what did you like and what you didnt like and what your passion is.You could very well write an essay by starting about your previous job and highlighting what you didnt like and you departed and what you love about your role at the startup and how you love it or Even things you struggle with because you did not anticipate them and most importantly how you react what adjustments youre making.they want to get to know you more, and this is your opportunity to sort of show off and make a resume more meaningful so use it to the best ability you can. Keep in mind that they have senior resume so you dont need to repeat too much from there_________________ DECATUR A Decatur woman feared her nephew was about to get shot or beaten in a street confrontation with Dominic E. Herold who, according to the cops, is a self-confessed member of the Vice Lords street gang. A sworn affidavit filed by the Decatur Police Department describes the 19-year-old defendant as telling the officers who arrested him he entered the Vice Lords at the age of 15. And he described the entry ritual: Dominic stated that he was jumped by approximately 25 people and was beaten for approximately three minutes, said Officer Brandon Balek, who signed the affidavit. Dominic stated that he was originally from Englewood in Chicago and he has cousins that are also Vice Lords. Balek said the confrontation with the aunts 16-year-old nephew happened July 4 in the 1200 block of West Marietta Street. The 44-year-old woman is quoted as telling police she feared Herold was armed and was going to shoot or fight her nephew. (She) stated that Dominic then brandished a black and shiny semi-automatic pistol that appeared smaller and similar in style to an officers duty weapon Balek added. The woman, whose version of events was backed up by a female witness, told police: She stated she did not feel safe and made statements that (the situation) felt dangerous and scary. She stated that Dominic laughed when she told him she was calling the police. Herold had then fled but soon returned and was taken into custody by arriving officers. Balek said police recovered a semi-automatic pistol that had been dumped near houses in the 900 block of North Oakland Avenue in the area where Herold had run off to before returning. Herold is quoted as denying everything and said the woman had mistaken his vape pen for a weapon. Dominic stated something similar to Im not dumb enough to bring a gun. Im on probation," said Balek. But while he was being processed into the Macon County Jail after being arrested on weapons offenses, Balek said four live 9mm rounds identical to a live round in the recovered gun were found in Herolds possession. The defendant appeared in Macon County Circuit Court for a preliminary hearing July 17 and pleaded not guilty to charges alleging the aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, possession of a gun by a gang member and reckless conduct. His defense attorney, Chief Public Defender Michelle Sanders, had cross-examined Balek and got him to confirm that Herold had not been carrying a weapon when he was arrested. She also established that the area where Herold was taken into custody had some 30 adults and children present but none of the others told police Herold was armed. Balek replied that no one else present wanted to cooperate with law enforcement. Herold has been denied pretrial release on the grounds he represents too much of a danger to the public. He is due back in court for a pretrial hearing Aug. 13. New research finds young gun violence survivors experience lasting physical and mental trauma New research finds young gun violence survivors experience lasting physical and mental trauma Firearms are the leading cause of death among children Shootings related to domestic violence in Illinois were significantly more lethal in 2023 even as their overall number remained mostly stable from previous years, according to a new report. The report from The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence projected that 130 people in Illinois would die due to domestic gun violence in 2024. The report, released weeks after U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared gun violence a public health crisis, documented 109 shootings related to domestic violence, which killed 93 people in Illinois throughout 2023. 2022 saw 108 shootings that resulted in 73 deaths, or 27% fewer mortalities than in 2023. Domestic gun violence-related deaths have been on the rise since they hit a recent statewide low of 51 in 2020, according to the report. The report, the third installment of the organizations Measuring Safety series, noted that the rise in deaths was partially due to an increase in murder-suicides related to domestic violence. Last year also saw five gun-related family annihilations in Illinois, which led to another 18 deaths and four injuries, according to the report. Three more family annihilations occurred between January and May 2024, the report noted, putting the state on track to lose seven families to this kind of violence by December. Maralea Negron, the director of policy, advocacy and research for the Network, said many factors likely contributed to the spike in deaths. When someone goes to the lengths of killing an intimate partner or family member, theyre not shooting to injure; for the most part theyre shooting to actually kill, she said. Social or financial issues can also play a role in the likelihood of an abusive situation turning deadly, she said. Because domestic violence situations tend to be anchored in a need for power and control, she said, household stressors can contribute to someones need to exert control in other areas of their life. In an abusive situation, that person is using any tactic within their control to try and coerce that person to get them to do what they want, she said. When someone is engaging in these power and control dynamics, there are usually other social and economic factors at play. Negron said that taking a persons life is the last tool in the toolbox for someone looking to control someone else. The Network and other advocates against domestic violence have spent much of the last year pressuring state legislators to pass HB 4469, known as Karinas Bill in honor of Little Villages Karina Gonzalez, whose husband allegedly shot and killed her and their 15-year-old daughter in July 2023. Gonzalez had obtained an order of protection against her husband about two weeks before she was killed. The measure, currently stalled in the Senate, would require that law enforcement remove firearms from individuals who have orders of protection against them and clarify when and how law enforcement can confiscate such weapons. Currently, firearms arent always removed from people involved in those situations even if the owners firearm identification card is technically revoked. Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, indicated last month that legislators would revisit the proposal in the wake of a recent U.S. Supreme Court move to uphold a law that prevents people under restraining orders from their partners from owning firearms. Flash Workers carry bodies of unidentified Palestinians killed by the Israeli army in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on Aug. 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua] Israel had returned the bodies of 89 Palestinians killed by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip, the Hamas-run Gaza government media office said on Monday. These bodies, previously held by Israel, were delivered through the Kerem Shalom crossing in the southern Gaza Strip by the International Committee of the Red Cross, Palestinian security sources requesting anonymity told Xinhua. The sources said that the bodies were placed in plastic bags with serial numbers but without any information about their origins, the locations from which they were taken, or the places where they were killed. According to the media office, the Israeli side had kidnapped more than 2,000 bodies of the slain victims from dozens of cemeteries in the Gaza Strip over the course of 304 days of the conflict. The statement called for the establishment of an independent international investigation into the abduction of the corpses and what they said was "the theft of their vital organs." There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military on the return of the bodies. In the past, the IDF has said it has removed dozens of bodies from Gaza for DNA tests in Israel to see if there are Israeli hostages. The returned bodies were buried on Monday in a mass grave at the Turkish cemetery in Khan Younis, the southern Gaza Strip. Israel launched a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and around 250 others taken hostage. It was July 23, 1999, when two college classmates and I boarded a plane to Madison, Wis. On this date, I began a journey that would change my life substantially. I was a recent graduate in agricultural engineering from the Catholic University of Argentina, embarking on this trip to pursue an internship at USDAs Agricultural Research Services Dairy Forage Research Center. This was my first visit to the United States, and my English was very poor. Upon arrival, a group of scientists presented their research interests so that we could choose with whom we wanted to work. Among these researchers were Rick Muck, Larry Satter, Glen Broderick, Paul Weimer, and, last but not least, Dave Mertens, whom I chose as my mentor based on his work on carbohydrates. For those who do not know him, Mertens is one of the most prestigious ruminant nutritionists in the U.S. and the world. He is a brilliant scientist, but more importantly, he is a wonderful person. In our first conversations, Mertens explained to me that a commercial laboratory was seeking to develop a method to better estimate the availability of starch from corn silage. The concern was that some starch from corn silage ends up in the feces, and we needed to find a way to quantify the potential loss. Then, in a very friendly manner, he challenged me, saying, Think about what you would do to solve this issue. A few days later, I visited Mertens in his office and brought with me a one-page research proposal. More than a proposal, this was a piece of paper with a few bulleted ideas. In a nutshell, the main idea was to pick out whole corn kernels by hand and see what percentage of the total starch in the silage was represented by the whole kernels. I am not sure if Mertens already had this same idea in his mind, but he liked the proposal, and we implemented it. Having worked for years in the lab, Mertens systematized the procedure, which consisted of drying the corn silage samples and then shaking the dried silage through a set of sieves (as illustrated in the photo ). The most important observation was that whole kernels were retained by a 6.7-millmeter (mm) sieve and that coarse kernel fragments were retained by a 4.75-mm sieve. After determining how much starch was in the silage (StarchCS) and how much starch was in the whole kernels and large kernel fragments (Starch>4.75), we generated a ratio called the fragmentation index (FI). This was calculated as FI = 100 (Starch>4.75 / StarchCS) x 100. Twenty-five years have passed since this wonderful experience. The fragmentation index is now known as the corn silage processing score and is widely used by ruminant nutritionists to evaluate the quality of corn silage. As for me, I have been deeply influenced by Mertens, and I have been performing research since those days. One thing I can say to him for sure is: Thank you for your mentorship! To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com. (c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2024 August 1, 2024 COMPANY NEWS: Leading advisory and IT solutions provider, Atturra , today announced the expansion of its sovereign cloud capabilities through a new deployment in NEXTDCs S3 datacentre. The expansion in the facility will allow the company to meet rapidly growing client demand for domestically located cloud compute and storage capacity. It will also enhance Atturras ability to support the increasing need for AI-as-a-Service workloads for clients across Australia. Increasing numbers of our clients are coming to realise that not all compute workloads are suited to the platforms provided by cloud hyperscalers, said Chris McLaughlin, Executive General Manager, Managed Services at Atturra. They appreciate the performance, scalability, and resilience that we can provide for both cloud-based and hybrid infrastructures. Deployment of the servers in NEXTDCs S3 datacentre, located in the Sydney suburb of Artarmon, will begin in August and be completed by December. The new S3 deployment is based on a composable compute platform providing fluid resources for up to 36 servers and 400 terabytes of storage. Multiple high-speed network connections will ensure optimal performance and full redundancy. Once complete, the new cloud capacity will become part of Atturras national private cloud capacity served out of multiple NEXTDC datacentres. NEXTDC was an obvious choice for this expansion as they have been an important technology partner of ours for more than 10 years, said McLaughlin. Their industry leading facilities, located throughout Australia, give us the flexibility we need to support our clients regardless of their location. Steve Martin, Head of Sales, Major Markets, Australia, said, At NEXTDC, we are excited to support Atturras ongoing expansion of sovereign cloud services as they venture into exciting new opportunities as an AI-as-a-Service provider. Atturras expertise in the AI space is well-established, and their new AI-as-a-Service platform will accelerate client adoption of Private AI solutions. This collaboration underscores our mission to provide robust, scalable, AI-ready infrastructure that meets the future growth requirements of our partners and their clients." Workloads and security The new private cloud capacity will be used to host a variety of workloads for Atturra clients. This will include Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) and Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) deployments. Object storage, firewalls, and Backup-as-a-service (BaaS) will also be offered. McLaughlin said the new private cloud capability is currently being certified as part of Atturras company-wide ISO27001 certification. This will ensure client data remains protected and secure at all times. Business benefits McLaughlin said the new capacity will provide significant benefits to both Atturra and its clients. For the company, it will support additional growth and allow increased competition with other private-cloud providers. It will also become a differentiator for new clients who are planning a move to the cloud. For our clients, the new capacity will mean faster provisioning times together with the ability to connect to other Atturra services, said McLaughlin. These include our AI-powered services that were recently announced in conjunction with HPE and Nuix. Future plans Looking ahead, Atturra has plans to expand its footprint within the NEXTDC S3 datacentre and has options on additional server racks. We will have the ability to double our capacity in this location, said McLaughlin. This will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients, which will be fuelled by increasing business use of AI, well into the future. Flash Photo taken on July 26, 2024 shows people are seen in a flooded area in Kassala city, eastern Sudan. [Photo/Xinhua] A Chinese envoy on Monday called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to fully respect Sudan's judicial sovereignty and legitimate concerns when processing the Darfur case. "China has been closely following the International Criminal Court investigation into the situation in Darfur," said Dai Bing, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, in remarks at the UN Security Council briefing on ICC Sudan. Dai said China welcomes the prosecutor's reference in his report to the Sudanese government's cooperation with the prosecution on the Darfur case, granting visas to the prosecution team, and responding to a number of requests for assistance. When processing the cases on its docket, the ICC should continue to be guided by the Rome Statute and the mandate of the Security Council, strictly abide by the principle of complementarity, exercise its powers independently, objectively, impartially, and in accordance with the law, and "fully respect the judicial sovereignty and legitimate concerns of Sudan," he said. Dai stressed that China has always advocated a political solution, which is "the only viable way to end the conflict and restore peace," noting that the recent proximity talks in Geneva between the two parties to the conflict and a planning retreat in Djibouti of principal mediators have created a positive momentum for international mediation and diplomacy. "The international community should, as a matter of priority, use the political and diplomatic toolboxes available properly to encourage parties to have more dialogue, resolve their differences properly, and deescalate the tensions until a comprehensive ceasefire is in place," the Chinese envoy said. He urged the ICC, when dealing with the Darfur issue, to take into full account the complexity and sensitivity of realities in Sudan and the region as a whole, set its sights on the overarching goal of diffusing the conflict in Sudan politically, tread carefully, and refrain from "unwarranted intervention." China supports Sudan's efforts to improve its administration of justice and develop its national capacity to combat impunity, Dai noted, calling on the international community to address in earnest the practical difficulties facing Sudan. "China's position on the ICC remains unchanged," he said, adding, "China hopes that when handling cases involving international and regional hotspot issues, the Court will refrain from politicization and double standards, apply international law equitably, and be a genuinely constructive force." COMPANY NEWS: Commvault, a leading provider of cyber resilience and data protection solutions for the hybrid cloud, today announced an expansion of its cyber and data security ecosystem through strategic integrations with an array of security partners: Acante, Dasera, Google Cloud, Splunk, and Wiz. These integrations play a key role in helping joint customers advance cyber resilience in a variety of ways across on-premises, hybrid, and cloud environments from identifying potential threats or anomalies, to understanding where sensitive data exists, to accelerating clean recoveries. These bi-directional integrations also empower customers to use their preferred security, data protection, and cyber recovery solutions. Security operations teams can leverage these integrations to help better understand risks and threats, defend against them, and recover with confidence. The need for these types of integrations has never been more critical or timely. According to a recent study commissioned by Commvault and conducted by GigaOm, only 13% of organiSations are equipped to effectively defend against and rapidly recover from cyberattacks, with 54% of these organisations expressing full confidence in their recovery abilities. For more on these findings, read the 2024 Cyber Recovery Readiness Report. Commvault is committed to partnering with industry leaders in cyber security, data security posture management (DSPM), and artificial intelligence (AI) with one goal in mind to help customers advance their security posture, said Commvault chief product officer Rajiv Kottomtharayil. It takes a village to fight todays cyber threats, and through these integrations, we help enable our customers to build a bridge towards true organisational resilience. Integrations with these partners continue to advance data discovery and classification, cyber resilience, and cyber security. Acante: Acante's data access governance solution for modern data and AI clouds empowers data teams to radically simplify and dramatically accelerate precise, secure, and compliant access to their fast-growing critical data. Dasera: Offers DSPM solutions that help companies identify where sensitive structured and unstructured data is, automate data security and governance, and rapidly find, flag, and fix data security risks. Google Threat Intelligence: Provides unmatched threat visibility and actionable context powered by AI to help organizations proactively set defenses, hunt efficiently, and investigate and respond to new and novel threats. With a Google Threat Intelligence licensed API key, customers can realize a seamless experience to investigate Commvault detected threats without jumping between tabs. Splunk: Enhances threat detection and response capabilities via Splunk's advanced data analytics platform, providing real-time operational intelligence for comprehensive security insights. Wiz: Delivers a consolidated cloud security platform that excels in providing clarity, visibility, and context, enabling users to secure their cloud environments. Quotes from integration partners Acante: We are thrilled to partner with an industry leader like Commvault to help customers bolster their data resiliency by combining Commvaults cutting edge data protection technology with Acantes data access governance solution, said Ranga Rangachari, Acante CEO and co-founder. This integration dramatically enhances our customers' data security posture. Dasera: Our DSPM solutions complement Commvaults offerings and help to provide continuous monitoring and rapid remediation of data security risks, said Dasera CEO and co-founder Ani Chaudhuri. Together, we are committed to helping organisations achieve robust data security and compliance. Wiz: The collaboration between Wiz and Commvault delivers cloud security context that enables highly secure backup recoveries with embedded vulnerability patching, said Wiz vice president of product extensibility and partnership Oron Noah. We're paving the way for a new era of cloud resilience, where data protection and security go hand in hand. Learn more about these security integrations at the Black Hat Conference To learn more about Commvaults latest integrations, book a meeting with us at Black Hat USA (7-8 August), or stop by Booth #2701. At the booth, visitors can also learn how to fight attackers in an increasingly complex digital landscape with Commvault Cloud Cleanroom Recovery. It provides: An isolated environment designed to test and strengthen a companys cyber resilience A classroom to enlighten the IT and security teams about unknown threats A strategic war room for crafting realistic plans to tackle new compliance challenges Availability These new integrations are available immediately through Commvault and its partners. For detailed product specifications, configuration guides, and additional resources, visit Commvaults Partner page. About Commvault Commvault is the gold standard in cyber resilience, helping more than 100,000 organisations keep data safe and businesses resilient and moving forward. Today, Commvault offers the only cyber resilience platform that combines the best data security and rapid recovery at enterprise scale across any workload, anywhereat the lowest TCO. COMPANY NEWS: Cashrewards, Australias leading cashback platform, today announced the acquisition of Little Birdie, an innovative shopping companion powered by world-leading technology. Little Birdies platform can ingest tens of millions of products, using advanced machine learning models to categorise and match them with precision, and proprietary algorithms to highlight the best daily deals for members. This acquisition represents a large step forward in Cashrewards' mission to be the ultimate shopping companion for Australian consumers. The acquisition will eventually enable Cashrewards to integrate Little Birdies extensive product search and real-time price tracking with Cashrewards' market-leading cashback platform, with the combined service expected to deliver an unmatched shopping experience that helps members find the best prices and earn cash back. However, in the first phase of the integration, Cashrewards will relaunch the Little Birdie website and app including the products its loyal customer base loved. The team are aiming for this to be available before the Black Friday/Christmas season begins in earnest this year. Key Benefits for Consumers: Search for Any Product : Access tens of millions of products across thousands of online retailers. : Access tens of millions of products across thousands of online retailers. C heck Price History: Review historical pricing to determine the best time to buy. Review historical pricing to determine the best time to buy. Get Price Drop Notifications : Receive alerts when prices drop, ensuring you never miss a deal. : Receive alerts when prices drop, ensuring you never miss a deal. Effortless Price Comparison : Compare prices across multiple retailers without opening multiple tabsavoid the "tabalanche"! : Compare prices across multiple retailers without opening multiple tabsavoid the "tabalanche"! Cashback on Purchases: Earn cashback on your purchases, stacking savings on top of the best deals. This acquisition is a strategic milestone for Cashrewards, reinforcing its leadership position in the market and expanding its member offerings. Anthony Seymour-Walsh, CEO of Cashrewards, stated, Cashrewards is committed to leading the way in innovation and bringing members even more value and ways to save on their everyday shopping. Once the integration is complete our 2M+ members will be able to enjoy a seamless shopping journey with Cashrewards, supercharged with Little Birdie's powerful product search and price comparison tools. He added, This acquisition is a major win for consumers in Australia and is a significant milestone in Cashrewards' growth trajectory. This move not only strengthens our market position but will enhance our value proposition and accelerate the growth opportunities within our cashback and retail media sectors. Jon Beros, CEO and Co-founder of Little Birdie added "Little Birdies world-leading technology is a groundbreaking innovation for online shopping,". "By combining our innovative platform with Cashrewards leading cashback ecosystem, customers will be empowered like never before. In the future, theyll have all the tools they need to make smarter, more informed purchases, while getting the best value possible. This will not only enhance the shopping experience but also generate millions of customer referrals for retailers, adding value across the industry." Ultimate Customer Referral Machine for Retailers For retailers, particularly in these challenging times, this acquisition couldnt come at a better time. Once the integration of Little Birdies technology with Cashrewards is complete, it will create the most efficient customer referral machine, driving high-intent shoppers directly to retailers. This innovative platform will help retailers acquire new customers, increase transaction frequency and boost revenue by offering unmatched value and savings to consumers, turning visitors into loyal buyers. About Cashrewards About Cashrewards Cashrewards is a trusted, award-winning Australian brand dedicated to delivering innovative cashback and retail media solutions. For over a decade, Cashrewards has been a strategic partner to brands, helping them drive sales, optimise marketing efforts, and foster genuine connections with members. Their product suite includes: Cashrewards: The flagship cashback platform, offering a seamless and rewarding shopping experience for 2 million + members. Circuit by Cashrewards: A comprehensive retail media solution that leverages advanced insights and behavioural targeting to deliver impactful marketing campaigns. Network by Cashrewards: A direct network capability, enabling clients to onboard seamlessly without third-party intermediaries. The Cashrewards ecosystem has driven more than $4 billion in total transaction value for Brand Partners since its inception, translating into more than $200 million in cashback earned by members. Committed to doing well while doing good, Cashrewards partners with the Starlight Childrens Foundation, matching and donating 1% of all cashback withdrawn by members. To date, they have contributed over $2 million to the charity, helping more than 50,000 sick children and their families. (Metropolis Magazine) Japans famous tourist destinations like Kyoto and Tokyo may have their initial appeal, but after a few visits to crowded temples, the smaller towns and paths that sprawl into the unknown start to beckon. The newly expanded shinkansen route connecting Tokyo to Hokuriku region makes it even easier to discover these new places. Places like Mikuni Minato. (Metropolis Magazine) Kuzuryu River Mikuni Minato is a small port town in western Japan on the coast of Fukui Prefecture. It is a quiet area that borders the Kuzuryu River, devoid of the high-rise buildings and mass of chain stores that you find in the countrys urban centers. In their place are traditional houses, restaurants and cafes in repurposed historic buildings and family-run saka manju (steamed buns made with sake lees) shops. All are within walking distance of each other. (Metropolis Magazine) But the area wasnt always a quiet space for the offbeat traveler. Once an important part of Japans most famous marine trade route: the Kitamae-bune, it was once a place of wealth and luxury. The Kitamae-bune were ships that traveled between Osaka and Hokkaido, stopping at various ports along the way, including Mikuni Minato. One of their iconic exports was shakudani ishi, a desirable type of stone sourced from Fukuis Mt. Asuwa. By the mid-Edo Period (1603-1868), the town started truly making a name for itself bringing wealth to its resident merchants. (Metropolis Magazine) You can still see elements of the merchants pride and their former wealth through the towns decorative use of the shakudani ishi stone and their signature architectural style called kagura date. The stone is especially distinct in the rain when its color shifts to a muted turquoise. The building style, on the other hand, is a bit more discreet to an untrained eye but it is marked by the awning underneath the rooftop. While some traditional buildings around Japan have awnings as well, the kagura date is closer to the rooftop giving it a layered look. Look out for the kagura date rooftops that peek out from the regular roofing. (Metropolis Magazine) Staying in a renovated traditional residence is a great way to take your exploration a step further. In what feels like a mini-revival of their former wealth, the new Auberge Homachi Mikuniminato accommodation has recently transformed a few residences into stunning townhouse accommodations. They are distinguishable on the outside only by their blue noren (entrance curtains) and a bonsai on the porch. Staying at one of these homes immerses you in a historic atmosphere while offering modern comforts like the heating that you will certainly need during a winter visit. (Metropolis Magazine) (Metropolis Magazine) (Metropolis Magazine) On my recent trip there I was glad to see that these new hotel residences blend in. Rather than intruding on the towns landscape with a cement block hotel, they preserve what was already there. The town felt more accessible and untouched, encouraging me to explore my immediate surroundings. Walking around the town, youll find plenty of other examples of kagura date rooftops and occasional nods to its seafaring past. But some spots have more nods than others. For example, walking around the antique shop Kondo Kobijutsu, or the Former Kishina Residence, youll find a literal treasure trove or at least, the containers of treasures. Im referring to the tansu (chest of drawers) that were kept on the trade ships. They were made in a way that valuables could be hidden in boxes within boxes. Their special wood also expands in water to keep everything dry should it end up in the ocean. Youll find plenty of these as well as other historic items throughout both spots. (Metropolis Magazine) More hands-on activities include workshops or crafting experiences that you can find around the town. You can make your own lantern at Itoya, a local company that has been operating for around 80 years. Its also one of the only places that still uses traditional bamboo instead of metal wiring. The two-hour experience lands you a small decorative lantern of your own design to take home. (Metropolis Magazine) (Metropolis Magazine) You can see the experts at work at Itoya After immersing yourself in small-town life, finish the evening with a bite to eat or a hot sake. The historic Uoshiro is a restaurant that was once a geisha house and later a salon that served meals to both businessmen and geisha. Now, rather than a place of exclusivity, it is a place where everyone is welcome, allowing you to taste some of the areas local specialties. I tried the Amaebi Gozen, which features local amaebi (sweet shrimp) as the spotlight ingredient. It is usually served raw or as tempura along with small side dishes. (Metropolis Magazine) (Metropolis Magazine) Wakasa wagyu with local vegetables For staying guests, the Auberge Homachi Mikuniminato also has a restaurant, Tateru Yoshino Mikuniminato. Named after its esteemed chef, the eatery serves local specialties in a French style for both breakfast and dinner. My dinner consisted of a pre-set course with a wine pairing, featuring local seasonal specialties like Echizen crab and Wakasa wagyu. (Metropolis Magazine) While Mikuni Minato makes for a peaceful town stay, extending your stay allows you to explore more of Fukui Prefecture. The nearest side trip destination is Tojinbo, a natural cliff face overlooking the Sea of Japan. Further afield, youll find the likes of Eiheiji Temple, Heisenji Hakusan Shrine, and even Takefu Knife Village. The knife village is one of the few places in Japan where you can witness the craft of Japanese knife-making firsthand. If you have six hours to spare you can make your very own. (Metropolis Magazine) Mikuni Minato is the furthest thing from a typical tourist attraction. But at the same time, its history as a once-thriving port town gives it a character you cant find elsewhere. It doesnt shout about its novelties, but sometimes, that respite from the crowded chaos is just what we need. metropolisjapan.com China urges ICC to fully respect Sudan's judicial sovereignty, legitimate concerns Xinhua) 09:26, August 06, 2024 UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Monday called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to fully respect Sudan's judicial sovereignty and legitimate concerns when processing the Darfur case. "China has been closely following the International Criminal Court investigation into the situation in Darfur," said Dai Bing, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, in remarks at the UN Security Council briefing on ICC Sudan. Dai said China welcomes the prosecutor's reference in his report to the Sudanese government's cooperation with the prosecution on the Darfur case, granting visas to the prosecution team, and responding to a number of requests for assistance. When processing the cases on its docket, the ICC should continue to be guided by the Rome Statute and the mandate of the Security Council, strictly abide by the principle of complementarity, exercise its powers independently, objectively, impartially, and in accordance with the law, and "fully respect the judicial sovereignty and legitimate concerns of Sudan," he said. Dai stressed that China has always advocated a political solution, which is "the only viable way to end the conflict and restore peace," noting that the recent proximity talks in Geneva between the two parties to the conflict and a planning retreat in Djibouti of principal mediators have created a positive momentum for international mediation and diplomacy. "The international community should, as a matter of priority, use the political and diplomatic toolboxes available properly to encourage parties to have more dialogue, resolve their differences properly, and deescalate the tensions until a comprehensive ceasefire is in place," the Chinese envoy said. He urged the ICC, when dealing with the Darfur issue, to take into full account the complexity and sensitivity of realities in Sudan and the region as a whole, set its sights on the overarching goal of diffusing the conflict in Sudan politically, tread carefully, and refrain from "unwarranted intervention." China supports Sudan's efforts to improve its administration of justice and develop its national capacity to combat impunity, Dai noted, calling on the international community to address in earnest the practical difficulties facing Sudan. "China's position on the ICC remains unchanged," he said, adding, "China hopes that when handling cases involving international and regional hotspot issues, the Court will refrain from politicization and double standards, apply international law equitably, and be a genuinely constructive force." (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Flash Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (C, front), also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, poses for photo with representatives of Palestinian factions in Beijing, China, July 23, 2024. [Photo/Chinese Foreign Ministry] Zhai Jun, special envoy of the Chinese government on the Middle East issue, on Monday held a phone call with Wolfgang Amadeus Brulhart, Swiss envoy to the Middle East. Introducing the reconciliation dialogue among 14 Palestinian factions in Beijing in July, Zhai said China sincerely hopes that various Palestinian factions will realize national unity and establish an independent country at an early date based on internal reconciliation. China appreciates Switzerland's active efforts to implement the two-state solution and is willing to work with Switzerland to continue to make positive contributions to promoting regional peace and stability, he said. Congratulating and hailing China for mediating the reconciliation dialogue and the signing of the Beijing Declaration, Brulhart said Switzerland shares the same position with China regarding the reconciliation among Palestinian factions. The various Palestinian factions forming a unified position and speaking with one voice are the prerequisites for realizing the two-state solution and resolving the Palestinian issue, said Brulhart, calling for maintaining communication with China on this issue. The two sides also exchanged views on the latest developments in the Middle East situation. A California wildlife organization says it has been rescuing sick sea lions in recent weeks showing signs of algae poisoning. On August 1, the Santa Barbara-based Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute said teams had rescued at least 23 animals. The U.S. Vandenberg Space Force Base recently released photos on social media of sea lions being taken from one of its beaches. The institute said that since July 26, it had received numerous reports daily of sick lions along a 250-kilometer stretch of coastline in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. The group said in a statement the sea creatures were found to be suffering from the effects of domoic acid, a poison that can harm the brain and heart. The release of the acid in a large ocean event is known as an algae bloom. The poison is produced by microscopic algae eaten by shellfish or small fish. Those shellfish or fish are often then eaten by sea lions, dolphins or birds. The algae can also sicken humans. Among the signs of sickness experienced by affected sea lions are unusual head movements, disorientation, foaming at the mouth and seizures. In a message published on Facebook August 4, the institute said the poisoning event was heating up, with new cases of sick sea lions still appearing at multiple beaches. It explained that rescue teams first try to get the animals in a net so they can be transported for treatment and then returned to the sea. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) says poisoning events linked to domoic acid are common along the California coast. Experts said the latest poisoning event seems to mostly be affecting adult female sea lions. Last year, an especially severe poisoning event killed hundreds of sea lions and a number of dolphins during the first weeks of June. Im Bryan Lynn. The Associated Press reported this story. Bryan Lynn adapted the report for VOA Learning English. _____________________________________________ Words in This Story algae - n. a plant with no stem or leaves that grows in or near water bloom v. to become densely populated with microorganisms such as algae disorient v. to make someone confused or unsure A measure begun 40 years ago by South Dakota lawmakers and state higher education leaders has turned a small rural college into one of the top high-tech universities in the United States. It began at a time when the future of Dakota State College itself was in question. In 1984, the South Dakota Board of Regents, which oversees the school, was under pressure to cut its budget. It closed one college and turned it into a prison. Soon after, a new law went into effect. The measure put technology at the center of all Dakota States study programs. The decision to reinvent a teachers college founded in 1881 in a rural city of 6,000 people seemed risky. But, at around the same time, Citibank, a major financial services company, decided to headquarter its credit card business in Sioux Falls, a city near the college. Jose-Marie Griffiths is the current president of Dakota State University (DSU). The school changed its name from college to university in 1989. Griffiths said Citibank was looking for computer programmers, and somebody came up with the idea that, well, we could turn this college thats fumbling a little bit into a computer school with software development and engineering. Griffiths told South Dakota News Watch, That way, we could supply the needed programmers to the Sioux Falls workforce for Citibank and ultimately for others.... Change was not fully supported at first Lynette Molstad Gorder was teaching at DSU 40 years ago when the change to a high-tech campus began. She said, at first, some members of the college community were unsure about the change, and its effect on people and programs. Later on we looked upon it as a welcome opportunity, she said. It was kind of hazy (at first) and then all of a sudden, it just clicked. Suddenly, computers replaced pens, pencils and typewriters in classrooms. And later, the move into computer science and then cyber security, she said. The jump into technology at DSU started with a bachelors degree in computer science using teaching materials from IBM. The teaching of computer science and software development along with industry partnership laid the groundwork for what was to come, Griffiths said. With a mix of private and public money, the university expanded the school and its offerings. In 2004, the National Security Agency named DSU a Center of Academic Excellence in computer security, one of the first in the nation. The number of students has also risen steadily, from 867 in 1985 to 3,509 in 2023. The university said DSU now offers 44 degrees, including seven masters degrees and four doctoral programs. In 2017, DSU started Madison Cyber Labs with money from the state and local businesses. It expanded research at the university to include cyber security, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, among others. The school is now planning an expansion into Sioux Falls itself. The plan includes partnerships with another research center and a cyber academy program for high school students. DSU is also pushing the state for more money to start a new center for quantum computing. Opportunities for DSU graduates Jen Easterly is director of the federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. She was the lead speaker at a DSU cybersecurity event last March. Easterly said that before she visited Madison, she had been hearing increasing discussion on the national level about the growth and innovation taking place at DSU. She said, The ideas generated at forums like this are just further proof that it doesnt matter the size of the university. Alexis Kulm graduated from DSU in December of 2022. She studied cyber operations there. The 23-year-old said she liked the small-town feel of the college. She took classes in web and network design, computer programming and malware analysis. All of them, she said, helped prepare her for the cyber workplace. You get a strong real-world education in your classes, Kulm said. Kulm also said she had several job offers after graduating. She chose Sanford Health, a company in Sioux Falls. It has a partnership with the university to increase employment opportunities for DSU graduates. Kulm is not the only DSU graduate to stay in South Dakota. Jon Waldman and Chad Knutson were in the class of 2006. Soon after graduating, they set up a business together right in Madison. Their 90-employee company SBS CyberSecurity serves the banking industry in 49 states. Waldman said DSU has a commitment to innovation that makes it easy for students to remain on top of the always-changing cyber technology and security industry. Im Caty Weaver. And Im Mario Ritter Jr. Bart Pfankuch reported this story for South Dakota News Watch and distributed it through a partnership with The Associated Press. Hai Do adapted the story for VOA Learning English. Quiz - How a Small College Became a Top High-tech University Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz ______________________________________________ Words in This Story fumble - v. to handle something clumsily or awkwardly ultimately - adv. at the end of the process innovation - n. new idea, method A British man has become the first to sail the world non-stop in the wrong direction east to west against the prevailing winds and currents. Chay Blyth, 31, set out on his 30,000-mile voyage from Hamble in Hampshire last October aboard a specially designed yacht, British Steel. Today as the former paratrooper docked back at Hamble, he was met by a flotilla of 200 boats. The welcoming party of 6,000 people included the Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince of Wales, Princess Anne and Prime Minister Edward Heath. The prime minister, who is also a keen sailor, praised Mr Blyths achievement. We admire you for the skill and determination you have shown in this personal endeavour, he said. We are proud of the British boat, British built with British material which has carried you so successfully. The 292-day voyage is the fastest non-stop world crossing on record. Mr Blyth said it had been a long trip but he had thoroughly enjoyed it. I think I had the best of it the people back home were doing all the worrying really, mainly my wife, he said. This is not Mr Blyths first long-distance sea expedition. In 1966 he rowed the Atlantic in 92 days with fellow paratrooper John Ridgway. In 1968-69 after leaving the army he took part in the Golden Globe race around the world but it ended in near disaster after his vessel overturned. Courtesy BBC News In context Chay Blyths successful round-the-world-voyage followed on from similar trips made by Sir Francis Chichester in 1967 and Robin Knox-Johnston in 1969 winner of the Golden Globe. A national hero after his accomplishment, Mr Blyth later supervised the building of 77-foot ocean racer and trained a team of paratroopers for the Whitbread round-the-world race. He set up the first wrong way round the world yacht race which first took place in 1992 and is now held every four years. In 1995 Chay Blyth founded a rowing challenge in which teams of two row nearly 3,000 miles across the Atlantic ocean. He received a knighthood for services to yachting in 1997. A casino employee has been arrested in connection with the theft of HKD400,000 in gaming chips from a casino. The female worker, who has been employed since 2007, allegedly stole chips from the roulette table during her shifts, pilfering HKD100,000 in at least three incidents since June. The Judiciary Police (PJ) launched an investigation after a formal complaint was filed, leading to surveillance operations. On Aug. 4, authorities apprehended her while she attempted another theft, intercepting her and discovering chips taped to her body. The investigation continues as the suspect remains uncooperative, complicating efforts to recover the stolen chips. Related It was billed as the biggest ever economic development project in north Michigan when Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2022 welcomed a Chinese lithium-ion battery companys plan to build a $2.36 billion factory and bring a couple thousand jobs to Big Rapids. But now the project by Gotion High-Tech is in the crosshairs of some U.S. lawmakers and local residents. Leading the charge is Republican Rep. John Moolenaar of Michigan, chairman of the House Select Committee on China, who accuses the Chinese company of having ties to forced labor and says he fears it could spy for Beijing and work to extend Chinas influence in the U.S. heartland. Gotion rejects the accusations. I want to see this area have more jobs and investments, but we must not welcome companies that are controlled by people who see us as the enemy and we should not allow them to build here, Moolenaar said at a recent roundtable discussion in Michigan. Lured by the large U.S. market, Chinese businesses are coming to the United States with money, jobs and technology, only to find rising suspicion at a time of an intensifying U.S.-China rivalry that has spread into the business world. U.S. wariness of China, coupled with Beijings desire to protect its technological competitiveness, threatens to rupture ties between the worlds two largest economies. That could hurt businesses, workers and consumers, which some warn could undermine the economic foundation that has helped stabilize relations. This is a lose-lose scenario for the two countries, Zhiqun Zhu, professor of political science and international relations at Bucknell University, said in an email. The main reason is U.S.-China rivalry, and the U.S. government prioritizes national security over economic interests in dealing with China. Lizhi Liu, an assistant professor of business at Georgetown University, said the trend, along with the decline of U.S. investments in China, could hurt China-U.S. relations. Strong investment ties between the two nations are crucial not only for economic reasons but also for security, as intertwined economic interests reduce the likelihood of major conflicts or even war, she said. But U.S. lawmakers believe the stakes are high. Sen. Marco Rubio said at a July hearing that China is not only a military and diplomatic adversary for the U.S. but also a technological, industrial and commercial opponent. The technological and industrial high ground has always been a precursor of global power, said Rubio, a Republican from Florida. He argued that U.S. foreign policy should take into account the countrys commercial, trade and technological interests. The bipartisan House Select Committee on China has warned that widespread adoption in the US. of technologies developed by China could threaten long-term U.S. technological competitiveness. U.S. public sentiment against Chinese investments began to build up during President Barack Obamas administration, in a pushback against globalization, and were amplified after President Donald Trump came into office, said Yilang Feng, an assistant professor of business at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, who studies economic nationalism and resistance to foreign direct investments in the U.S. The scale has increased, so has the intensity, Feng said. As President Joe Bidens administration seeks to revive American manufacturing and boost U.S. technological capabilities, many politicians believe Chinese companies should be kept out. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation told The Associated Press it has received bipartisan support at all levels to move forward with the project, which will create up to 2,350 jobs. Danielle Emerson, spokesperson for MEDC, said the project is critical to onshore the battery supply chain and create thousands of good-paying local jobs, which reduces our reliance on overseas disruptions and further protects our national security. Also in Michigan, a partnership between Ford and CATL, another Chinese battery manufacturer, has been scaled back, following pushback over CATLs potential connections to Chinas ruling party. In Worcester, Massachusetts, the Chinese biotech company WuXi Biologics paused construction of a large facility a few weeks after lawmakers introduced a bill that would, over data security concerns, ban U.S. entities receiving federal funds from doing business with a number of China-linked companies, WuXi Biologics included. John Ling, who has helped South Carolina and Georgia attract Chinese businesses for nearly two decades, said geopolitics have been getting in the way in recent years. Chinese companies are less likely to consider South Carolina after the state senate last year approved a bill banning Chinese citizens from buying property, even though the bill has yet to clear the statehouse, Ling said. Data by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis show the total investments by China in the U.S. fell to just under $44 billion in 2023, from a high point of $63 billion in 2017, although first-year expenditures rose to $621 million in 2023, up from $531 million in 2022 but drastically down from the high of $27 billion in 2016. The figures include acquisitions, new business establishments and expansions. U.S. policymakers are worried that Chinese companies, beholden to the ruling Chinese Communist Party, could pose national security risks, he said, while Beijing is concerned that overseas investments could lead to Chinese technology leakage. Chinese companies are in between a rock and a hard place, dealing with both domestic governments in terms of not letting them go abroad and then the U.S. or host governments that have concerns, Hanemann said. Yet, Chinese investors may still find the U.S. market appealing due to its high consumption levels and judicial independence, said Liu of Georgetown University. DIDI TANG, WASHINGTON , MDT/AP FAOM calls for outdoor workers protection amid scorching heat The Macau Federation of Trade Unions (FAOM) is advocating for specific and binding rules to protect outdoor workers, especially during hot days and adverse weather conditions. This comes after a survey conducted by FAOM revealed most employers do not adjust conditions for outdoor work despite high temperatures. Additionally, 65% of respondents reported their workplaces lack equipment to prevent heat stroke. Ella Lei, FAOM vice-president, noted the survey indicates a significant gap in the protection provided to outdoor workers during hot weather. Labor protection for individuals who work outdoors during very hot weather remains insufficient in Macau, Lei said during the reports release. Current laws require adequate protection against adverse environmental conditions and excessive sun exposure, but lack specific regulations and guidelines for implementation. According to the survey results, 70% of respondents support the creation of binding rules to increase rest periods or provide heat stroke prevention equipment. Completed by 1,004 workers in Macau, the survey found almost half the respondents spend more than one hour outdoors each day on average. Additionally, 87.7% stated their workplaces do not adjust work schedules on hot days, and 79.8% reported their companies do not increase rest time despite the heat. Over 65% mentioned that their employers do not provide equipment or materials to prevent heatstroke. More than 50% of employees believe high temperatures affect their physical and mental health. The survey also highlights a lack of sufficient knowledge among workers about heat-related illnesses and first aid measures. Employees suggested several measures to improve working conditions for those who work outdoors. This includes increasing rest time (69%), improving the working environment (53.3%), providing thermal protective equipment (51.9%), making reasonable adjustments to outdoor workload (48.7%), and implementing flexible working hours (39.1%). In light of these results, Lei emphasized the importance of the government learning from international practices to develop more specific guidelines. These should include the classification of high temperatures, adjustments to working hours, rest arrangements, risk assessments, improvements to working environments, contingency planning, and raising awareness among workers about the risks of working during hot weather. The Labour Affairs Bureau currently provides safety guidelines for work in tropical storms, heavy rain, and adverse weather conditions, which are non-binding suggestions for companies. The bureau suggests scheduling regular breaks for outdoor workers between May and September, with 15-minute breaks in the morning and 30-minute breaks in the afternoon to prevent sunstroke and exposure to excessive heat. Staff Reporter Bangladeshs prime minister resigned and fled the country yesterday, after weeks of protests against a quota system for government jobs descended into violence and grew into a broader challenge to her 15-year rule. Thousands of demonstrators stormed her official residence, a day after nearly 100 died in the unrest. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas departure threatens to create even more instability in the nation on Indias border already dealing with a series of crises, from high unemployment and corruption to climate change. Hours after the embattled leader was seen on TV boarding a military helicopter with her sister, the countrys military chief, Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman, said he would seek the presidents guidance on forming an interim government. He promised that the military would launch an investigation into the deadly crackdown on student-led protests that fueled outrage against the government. Keep faith in the military, we will investigate all the killings and punish the responsible, he said. I have ordered that no army and police will indulge in any kind of firing. He met opposition politicians, including the head of the now-banned Jamaat-e-Islami party, and civil society members before making his statement. The protests began peacefully as frustrated students demanded an end to a quota system for government jobs that they said favored those with connections to the prime ministers Awami League party, but the demonstrations have since morphed into an unprecedented challenge to Hasina and the party. The 76-year-old who was the longest-serving female head of government was elected for a fourth consecutive term in a January vote that was boycotted by her main opponents. Thousands of opposition members were jailed in the lead-up to the polls, and the U.S. and the U.K. denounced the result as not credible, though the government defended it. Hasina had cultivated ties with powerful countries, including both India and China. But under her, relations with United States and other Western nations have come under strain, as they have expressed concerns over human rights violations and press freedoms in the predominantly Muslim nation of 170 million people. Her political opponents have previously accused her of growing increasingly autocratic and called her a threat to the countrys democracy, and many now say the unrest is a result of that authoritarian streak. Hasina arrived yesterday in a city in India on the border with Bangladesh in an army helicopter, according to a military official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to release the information to the media. It was not clear where she would go next. As she fled, people stormed her residence, taking furniture and pulling food from the refrigerators. Protests have continued even after the Supreme Court last month ruled that the quota system which set aside up to 30% of government jobs for family members of veterans who fought in Bangladeshs war of independence against Pakistan must be drastically cut. The government attempted to quell the demonstrations with force, leaving nearly 300 people dead since mid-July. At least 95 people, including at least 14 police officers, died in clashes in the capital on Sunday, according to the countrys leading Bengali-language daily newspaper, Prothom Alo. Hundreds more were injured. At least 11,000 people have been arrested in recent weeks. The unrest has also resulted in the closure of schools and universities across the country, and authorities at one point imposed a shoot-on-sight curfew. Authorities also shut off mobile internet on Sunday in an attempt to quell the unrest, and broadband internet was cut briefly yesterday morning. It was the second internet blackout in the country since July, but services were restored later in the day. Over the weekend, protesters called for a non-cooperation effort, urging people not to pay taxes or utility bills and not to show up for work on Sunday, a working day in Bangladesh. Offices, banks and factories opened, but commuters in Dhaka and other cities struggled to get to their jobs since much public transport was halted amid fears of violence. Hasina offered to talk with student leaders on Saturday, but a coordinator refused and demanded her resignation. Hasina repeated her pledges to investigate the deaths and punish those responsible for the violence. She said she was ready to sit down whenever the protesters want. Earlier, she had said protesters who engaged in sabotage and destruction were no longer students but criminals, and that the people should deal with them with an iron hand. JULHAS ALAM & KRUTIKA PATHI, DHAKA, MDT/AP Lawmaker Ron Lam has called for the government to launch an internal investigation into the Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) to determine the reasons behind the bureaus decision to withhold information about the pavement revamp project at the Taipa Houses Museum. Lam submitted a written inquiry to the government via the Legislative Assembly, emphasizing the need to ascertain whether the concealment of information about the project was intentional, and its reasons. He noted the seriousness of the matter and its ability to influence public opinion on government transparency. Information on the project was disclosed to the public by the IAM only after the media reported on it, which Lam argues does not reflect the transparency expected in government work. The design contract for the pavement optimization works was awarded on June 14 for a price of 638,930 patacas, Lam said. When I tried to access information about the construction phase on the morning of July 31, the information was still categorized as work to be carried out. Strangely, only in the afternoon of the same day did the project appear in the section dedicated to the works in progress. It was only then that it was revealed that there was a second contract for the construction phase, with a price of 1.8 million patacas. Was it due to a technical error or was there a desire to withhold information? Lam asked, urging relevant departments to carry out a comprehensive internal investigation and clearly explain the matter to the public. Lam also expressed his opinion on the project itself, saying that authorities have been replacing sidewalks and pavement with Portuguese characteristics with uncharacteristic alternatives. He noted that such pavements are one of Macaus hallmarks and expressed concern that authorities have frequently failed to consult the public on matters related to the preservation of Macaus heritage and identity. Since the works were announced, several community representatives have voiced opinions on the topic, urging the government to ensure the public is informed before the works are approved and move to construction. Some, like Lam, have also expressed concerns over the potential disfigurement of the historically significant area, which has special cultural value to the Macanese community. According to information released by IAM and the Cultural Affairs Bureau, which is also part of the project, the revamp aims to create a path using granite stone slabs to replace some of the cobblestone pavement. The aim is to improve walking accessibility and access via wheelchairs and baby strollers. This new path will be built closer to the Taipa Houses, while the remaining area will retain the traditional cobblestones. The Health Bureau (SSM) has indicated a potential rise in Macaus birth rate for the upcoming year, based on current data on pregnant women. Speaking on the sidelines of an event, Alvis Lo announced that in the first half of 2024, 3,053 pregnant women in Macau scheduled their first prenatal check-up, marking a 4.2% increase from the 2,929 appointments recorded during the same period last year. Speaking at the 2024 Breastfeeding Promotion Award Ceremony, Lo emphasized the bureaus commitment to providing comprehensive prenatal care services throughout pregnancy to ensure the health and safe delivery of babies. SSM data reveals the existence of 367 breastfeeding rooms across public and private institutions in Macau, which will continue to be optimized. The breastfeeding rate has significantly increased from 88% in 2015 to approximately 92% in 2023. In June, the government released a birth encouragement video that received public backlash, with many residents criticizing the governments messaging and perceived lack of understanding of the challenges faced by families. Titled Having children brings greater happiness, the one-minute clip, posted earlier this month, depicts a smiling baby and toddler designed to encourage married couples to have children. The video was criticized for its simplistic messaging and failure to acknowledge the obstacles faced by prospective parents. The official birth rate in Macau has been declining in recent years, dropping to just 5.5 per thousand people in 2023, down from 6.4 per thousand in 2022 the lowest since 1985. Local associations have called on the government to take more substantive action to address the low birth rate. These measures include developing a stronger culture of marriage and childbearing, as well as implementing more robust support measures for families. Myanmars military regime acknowledged yesterday it had lost communications with the commanders of a strategically important army headquarters in the northeast, adding credence to claims from a militia group it had captured the base. The fall of the armys Northeast Command in the city of Lashio would be the biggest in a series of setbacks and a significant blow to Myanmars military government this year as an offensive launched by an alliance of powerful militias of ethnic minority groups continues to make broad gains in the countrys civil war. The regimes loss of the Northeast Command is the most humiliating defeat of the war, said Morgan Michaels, a Singapore-based analyst with the International Institute of Strategic Studies who runs its Myanmar Conflict Map project. Without Lashio, it will be extremely difficult for the regime to hold onto its final outposts in the theatre. Those include the key border crossing with China of Muse, as well as the strategic crossroads at Kyaukme, and it opens the way for attacks on Pyin Oo Lwin and Mandalay City, he said. The loss also raises questions about whether the ruling military council could be forced to give up attempts to hold contested territory in order to consolidate a defense of the central heartland. It could also contribute to growing discontent with Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the officer who seized power after leading the overthrow of the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021. The battle further underlines the utter failure of the armys senior leadership, especially Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, Michaels said. It seems increasingly unlikely that the army could survive with Min Aung Hlaing at the helm. Lashio, about 110 kilometers (70 miles) south of the Chinese border, has been the target of an offensive by the MNDAA, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army since early July. The MNDAA is a military force of the Kokang minority, who are ethnic Chinese. It is part of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, which last October launched a surprise offensive that succeeded in seizing large tracts of territory along the northern border with China. China helped broker a cease-fire in January, but that fell apart in June when the Taang National Liberation Army, another member of the Three Brotherhood Alliance made up of Taang ethnic minority members, launched new attacks, followed by the MNDAA. The alliances third member, the Arakan Army, had never stopped fighting in its home Rakhine State in western Myanmar. The groups in the alliance have been fighting for decades for greater autonomy from Myanmars central government. They are loosely allied with Peoples Defense Forces pro-democracy resistance groups that have arisen to fight military rule since the army took power. The MNDAA had initially claimed the capture of the Northeast Command and Lashio on July 25, but it turned out the announcement was premature as the army continued to fight. The MNDAA said in a statement published on its Facebook page Saturday that the group had finally completely captured the militarys Northeast Command headquarters and defeated the remaining army units in Lashio at 12:20 p.m. that day. The claims could not be verified independently, with access to the internet and mobile phone services in the Lashio area mostly cut off. A member of Lashios Freedom Youth Volunteers-FYV, reached while he was outside the city, told The Associated Press yesterday that other members of his aid group had reported army personnel remained in control of some areas of the Northeast Command headquarters, though most had been taken by the MNDAA. He spoke on the condition of anonymity out of fear of reprisals from both sides. There were still reports of gunfire in the city on Sunday, but photos of captured army commanders, as well as multiple videos and photos of captured equipment and soldiers were circulating widely on social media, suggesting the MNDAA had taken the base. The MNDAA itself released a photo of its troops posing in front of a sign outside the Northeast Command. The regime has clearly suffered an enormous loss and no longer has any meaningful control of the city, even if it retains a toehold for now, Michaels said. The MNDAA had captured a regional military headquarters in Laukkaing, a key city on the Chinese border, earlier in the offensive, but the Lashio headquarters is more important. Early yesterday, Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, the spokesperson of Myanmars ruling military council, said in an audio statement on state-run MRTV television that it had lost contact with commanders of the Northeastern Command headquarters Saturday night and had unconfirmed reports some of them have been arrested by the MNDAA. We recognize and respect all the officers, soldiers, and policewomen of the Northeast Regional Military Command for protecting the command, Lashio territory, the military and the motherland with all their abilities, he said without specifically addressing MNDAAs claim to have captured the facility. I would like to say that the government and the military will continue to do what should be done for the country and the people. DAVID RISING, BANGKOK, MDT/AP Nearly 15 months since Thailands general election on May 14, 2023, a political reset is underway to preserve the disguised autocratic power of the royalist-conservative establishment. The key issue is whether the traditional power holders will permit policy progress under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisins coalition government. If they aim only to retain power without advancing reforms, Thailand may remain in political stasis with inconsistent policy initiatives. When the Move Forward Party emerged as the top vote-getter in what seemed like a pivotal election, it posed an existential threat to established power. Campaigning on reforms of the military, monarchy, bureaucracy, and economy, Move Forward secured 151 of 500 elected seats, including 32 of 33 in Bangkok. The Pheu Thai Party, with its roots under ousted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and dominant since 2001, captured 141 seats, marking its first electoral loss. The two parties combined for two-thirds of the vote and formed a tentative governing pact, overshadowing pro-establishment parties like Bhumjaithai, Palang Pracharat, and United Thai Nation. Move Forward and Pheu Thais support for military reforms and lese-majeste law amendment threatened the establishment. Consequently, Move Forward faced accusations of trying to overthrow the democratic system with the king as head of state, and its leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, was charged with owning media shares in violation of the 2017 constitution. With Move Forwards constitutional challenges, a so-called super deal allowed Thaksin to return to Thailand after 15 years on Aug. 22, the same day Srettha received military-appointed Senate votes to become Prime Minister. This move effectively split the Move Forward-Pheu Thai alliance. Thaksin received a royal pardon, reducing his eight-year corruption sentence to 12 months, served comfortably in the Police General Hospital before his parole in February. Meanwhile, Pheu Thai withdrew its calls for military and monarchy reforms. Since Thaksins return, his political maneuvers have displeased palace and military circles, resulting in a lese-majeste charge against him post-parole. Srettha faced indictment by 40 outgoing senators last May for a constitutional violation involving a cabinet reshuffle that included a Thaksin loyalist convicted of bribing court officials. Thai politics stagnated with Move Forward relegated to opposition and Srettha facing potential removal, while Thaksin reengaged politically. Pheu Thai-led policy initiatives, like the 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme and various projects, progressed slowly. Political clarity awaited the May-June Senate selection. The 200-member Senate was chosen from over 48,000 applicants through an internal process, favoring older patronage networks. Bhumjaithai reportedly secured over 120 of 200 Senate seats by manipulating the process. On June 15, Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul received two top royal decorations, reflecting the partys significant Senate influence. The Senates roles include appointing crucial agencies, approving charter amendments, and blocking bills like amnesty for lese-majeste offenders. Srettha also received two royal decorations on July 12. With Move Forwards likely dissolution and Thaksins lese-majeste constraints, Sretthas continued tenure seems probable, though Anutin could replace him. This political reset, which subverts the democratic process, aims to stabilize the establishment forces. If it allows these forces to feel secure, Thailand may avoid further economic stagnation and political decay, though its democracy will remain weak and unstable. [Abridged] Courtesy Thitinan Pongsudhirak/Nikkei Asia * Under the heat Outdoor workers on the verge of a nervous breakdown while visitors arrive in the city in record numbers under an intense heat wave, with temperatures rising above 37 degrees * Weather Bureau issues heatstroke warnings * Demographics | Possible rise in births this year; population grows * Suspect arrested in Zhongshan after stealing MOP10 million worth of property from a luxury residence in Macau * Lawmaker Lam demands IAM probe over Taipa Houses concealment * Chinese businesses hoping to expand in the US and bring jobs face uncertainty DOWNLOAD PDF Tuesday, August 6, 2024 edition no. 4539 UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has strongly condemned an attack on a hotel accommodating asylum seekers that injured at least 10 police officers, including one seriously. In a statement issued from 10 Downing Street yesterday [Macau time], Starmer denounced the violence as far-right thuggery and pledged that authorities would take all necessary measures to bring the perpetrators to justice swiftly. Starmers remarks followed a series of violent incidents across the UK, including a stabbing rampage at a dance class that resulted in the deaths of three girls and injuries to several others. The Prime Minister emphasized that the violence seen in recent days was not a legitimate protest but rather organized, violent thuggery and had no place in society. The most severe violence occurred in Rotherham, a town in northern England, where police faced hundreds of rioters attempting to breach a Holiday Inn Express used to house asylum seekers. Rioters threw missiles, including wood, chairs, and fire extinguishers, at officers. A bin set on fire near the hotel was quickly extinguished. South Yorkshire Police reported that at least 10 officers were injured, with one left unconscious. Assistant Chief Constable Lindsey Butterfield condemned the violence as disgusting and warned that those involved should expect to face justice soon. Police are actively reviewing online footage to identify and apprehend suspects. The recent surge in far-right violence has been fueled by concerns over immigration, particularly following a stabbing incident that falsely linked an asylum seeker to the crime. Far-right agitators have exploited these fears, targeting immigrant communities and stirring unrest. The situation in Middlesbrough also saw tensions escalate, with protesters vandalizing property and clashing with police. Starmer highlighted that such attacks, which have included assaults on mosques and displays of Nazi salutes, are rooted in far-right extremism. He stressed that everyone in the UK has the right to safety and condemned the targeting of individuals based on race or religion. The violence began after false rumors circulated online claiming the suspect in the dance class stabbing was an asylum seeker. Axel Rudakubana, who is 17 and born in Wales to Rwandan parents, has been charged with three counts of murder and 10 counts of attempted murder. The judge permitted Rudakubanas identification to counter misinformation. Authorities are facing a significant challenge as they attempt to manage the widespread unrest. With hundreds arrested and a backlog of over 60,000 cases in the court system, the criminal justice system is under severe strain. The National Audit Office and government reports have highlighted the need for additional measures to address these issues, including the early release of some inmates to alleviate prison overcrowding. Stephen Parkinson, the Director of Public Prosecutions, has deployed additional lawyers to ensure swift legal proceedings. He has instructed prosecutors to make immediate charging decisions where key evidence is available, aiming to expedite justice. Far-right groups have used social media to mobilize support for their anti-immigration agenda, with prominent figures like Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, also known as Tommy Robinson, playing a significant role. Yaxley-Lennon, banned from Twitter in 2018 but later reinstated, has over 800,000 followers and continues to incite unrest. MDT/AP A Vietnamese coast guard ship arrived in Manila yesterday for a four-day goodwill visit and joint exercises as the two countries attempt to put aside their own territorial disputes in the face of rising tensions with China over control of key features in the South China Sea. The Philippines and Vietnam are among the most vocal critics of Chinas increasingly hostile actions in the disputed waters, a key global trade and security route. The neighboring Southeast Asian countries themselves have overlapping claims in the busy sea passage along with Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan and the disputes are regarded as an Asian flashpoint and a delicate fault line in the U.S.-China regional rivalry. As the hosts coast guard personnel waved Philippine and Vietnamese flags and a brass band played under the morning sun at Manilas harbor, a 2,400-ton Vietnamese coast guard ship with 80 crewmembers docked. Some of its officers saluted from the lower and upper decks of the 90-meter white ship. During its stay in Manila, the two coast guard forces are expected to hold talks and tour each others ships. They will hold joint search and rescue drills along with fire and explosion contingency drills in Manila Bay, on the western coast of northern Philippines facing the South China Sea. This is a good template, a good way to deescalate the situation, Philippine coast guard spokesperson Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said. This shows that even rival claimants can have an opportunity to nurture a relationship. Col. Hoang Quoc Dat, who headed the Vietnamese coast guards delegation, said in a speech that their Manila port call was a way to strengthen the two countries cooperative relationship for mutual benefit. This will promote and enhance the efficiency of information sharing and the coordination in maritime law enforcement, in accordance with international law, he said and added such friendly collaboration contributes to the preservation and protection of the regions maritime security and safety. MDT/AP With support from the Macao Government Tourism Office, Wynn Resorts is hosting the Wynn Signature 2024 Hypercar Exhibition at Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace until Oct. 13. The exhibition features 30 of the worlds rarest and most luxurious hypercars, valued at HKD1.5 billion, including models from Apollo, Aston Martin, Bugatti, Ferrari, and Lamborghini. This years exhibition showcases the fastest and rarest of hypercars, including the track-focused Pagani Huayra R, known for its uncompromising performance; Koenigsegg Jesko Attack, which has a Magic Wing to create enormous downforce; the classic Ferrari Enzo Hypercar with a roaring V12 engine; the limited-edition Aston Martin V12 Speedster launched in celebration of Aston Martins 100th anniversary; and the Lamborghini Veneno Roadster the most expensive car in Lamborghini history with just nine vehicles worldwide. Offering free admission to the public, the exhibit provides a unique opportunity to view these automotive masterpieces up close, many of which are being displayed in Macau for the first time. As the Philippines weighs the delicate balance of energy security, affordability and environmental sustainability, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), offers a path to sustainable and reliable power generation. With its relatively low environmental impact, abundance and suitability as a baseload energy source, LNG has been tagged by the Department of Energy (DOE) for private sector investments and a way to make large renewable energy (RE) capacity additions viable. - Advertisement - In a recent media interview, Engr. Ina Pauline Abelon, an expert in the LNG sector, underscored the significant role of LNG as a cleaner transition fuel. LNG produces fewer and lighter emissions. For instance, when compared to diesel and the gasoline used in vehicles, the combustion products or smoke produced by oil products are much greater than those produced by LNG, noted Abelon. The cleaner combustion profile positions LNG favorably within the global shift towards more sustainable energy sources. The US, Germany and Japan some of the worlds largest economies are also the top users of LNG, while China, Japan and South Korea are top importers of LNG. Even oil producers like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran are top LNG consumers. Singapore relies 94% on this transition fuel significantly reducing its carbon emissions by increasing its share of natural gas use from only 19% in 2000. Cleaner baseload energy source But apart from being a cleaner energy source, according to Abelon, LNGs main virtue in the Philippine context is its availability as a baseload energy source. LNGs main advantage is its stability as an energy source. It is not fluctuating compared to renewable energy sources, say, wind power or solar power which depend on the weather. LNG provides a continuous supply of energy so that power (electricity supply) to cities and communities is stable. An LNG plant is 100% reliable (as baseload). Apart from that, the efficiency of an LNG plant is very high, says Abelon. Clearly (among clean energy sources) LNG is more reliable when compared to renewable energy sources. As the Philippines pushes for large renewable, and by nature intermittent, energy capacity additions, baseload LNG plants have a role to play in ensuring the reliability and security of the power system, sustaining economic development and social services. The Philippines has been actively pursuing renewable energy sources to meet its growing energy demands and address environmental concerns. However, the intermittent nature of renewables like wind and solar power poses challenges in consistently meeting energy demands. More recently, intermittent power sources such as hydroelectric power plants reduced production owing to the extreme Philippine summer heat and reduced production, forcing outages. Furthermore, the influx of RE like solar, wind and hydro requires land, competitive financing and engineering talents to develop these projects. On top of this, RE plants needs transmission availability from where they may be found. One can only build RE projects where there are natural (hydro, solar and wind) resources available. The recent Red and Yellow alerts over Luzon and Visayas highlighted the urgent need for still more reliable energy sources that can act as baseload, positioning LNG as a viable solution. The specter of Malampayas end-life Malampaya supplies 20% of Luzons energy requirements. With the Malampaya natural gas reserves expected to be depleted by 2027, the Philippines is turning to LNG to fill the impending energy gap and to provision energy resources to support an ever-growing population and a rapidly growing economy. Abelon alluded to both the Philippines fast dwindling Malampaya gas reserves and clean energy goals: Based on the Philippine context as laid down by the Department of Energy (DOE), its very clear that we are looking towards more LNG powered plants in the Philippines. The Clean Energy Scenario of the Philippine Energy Plan in fact targets a mix of 26% LNG and 50% renewable energy by 2040, reflecting LNGs crucial position in the countrys energy strategy. LNG as a hot topic LNG presently supplies less than 5% of the Philippines energy requirements, which makes it a relatively new concept where power generation is concerned. As LNG is relatively new to the Philippines energy mix, there are public concerns regarding its safety. Comparisons are even being drawn with LPG, which have been known to figure in explosions and accidents. Abelon clarifies LNGs paramount safety: LNG consists of lighter hydrocarbons and is mainly composed of methane. The natural gas is liquefied to -162 degrees Celsius and efficiently transported via pipelines or by ships. According to Abelon this process ensures its efficiency and safety across various applications, particularly power generation. Understanding the differences between LPG and LNG is crucial. LPG, made of propane and butane, is heavier and more flammable, posing risks near the ground. LNG, composed mainly of methane, is lighter and disperses quickly if released, practically eliminating flammability. The robust safety measures and the intrinsic properties of LNG make it a secure choice for the Philippines energy future. Abelon highlights: LNG plants are designed with double-lined, dual-layered tanks that meet international safety standards. The transportation of LNG is secure, adhering to the highest safety protocols. Global and Local Adoption LNGs reliability and cleaner emissions profile have led to widespread adoption around the world. Abelon cited countries like Japan, Korea, and China as leading importers of LNG, leveraging its benefits to enhance energy security and support economic growth. Meanwhile, Abelon affirmed LNGs extensive use in countries such as Australia, the US, and the UK, highlighting its global relevance. In the Philippines, major energy players including Meralco PowerGen, Aboitiz Power, and San Miguel Global Power have initiated significant LNG projects. A notable initiative is the USD 3.3 billion integrated LNG facility, aimed at bolstering the countrys energy infrastructure and ensuring a stable energy supply. Its fairly straight forward. Its been done (LNG has been adopted) across the globe. The Philippines has also adopted it to an extent. Neither will it be difficult. But just the same, thorough studies are undertaken to ensure safety for both the communities and the people operating power plants, said Abelon. Mali has announced the immediate termination of its diplomatic relations with Ukraine following a controversy surrounding a recent military defeat. The West African nation accused a senior Ukrainian official of admitting Kyivs involvement in a July attack that resulted in significant casualties among Russian Wagner Group mercenaries and Malian soldiers. The incident in question occurred near the Algerian border, where northern Tuareg rebels claim to have killed at least 84 mercenaries and 47 Malian soldiers over three days of intense fighting. This marks the heaviest reported loss for the Wagner Group since its involvement in Malis conflict two years ago. Malis government expressed shock at comments made by Andriy Yusov, spokesperson for Ukraines military intelligence, suggesting Ukraine had provided crucial information to the rebels. Additionally, Mali cited remarks by Ukraines Ambassador to Senegal as further evidence of support for what it termed a terrorist attack. The diplomatic rift highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in Mali, where the military government has strengthened ties with Russia since seizing power in 2020. The Wagner Group, operating in Mali since late 2021, has been a controversial presence, facing accusations of civilian casualties while assisting in counter-insurgency efforts. This development underscores the intricate web of international relations and conflicting interests in the Sahel region, as Mali navigates its security challenges and diplomatic alliances. The Government of Finland has voiced strong support for Moroccos autonomy plan offered for the Sahara under its sovereignty, saying the plan is a good basis for reaching a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution. The supportive stand comes in a joint press release issued Tuesday in Helsinki, following the talks held between Finlands foreign minister Elina Valtonen and her Moroccan peer Nasser Bourita. In the joint statement, Finland described the autonomy plan presented in 2007 as a serious and credible contribution to the UN-led political process, reaffirming support for the UN Security Council resolutions and the efforts engaged by the UN Sahara envoy for advancing the political process to reach a lasting and peaceful settlement to the Sahara regional conflict. Finlands new position is a state position, involving all spheres of the state, within the executive and legislative branches. It was made in consultation with the President and following consultations at the Government level and at the level of the Parliament Foreign Affairs Committee. This new position actually marks a substantial evolution compared to the countrys former stand, which consisted in supporting the efforts of the United Nations. Finlands support for the autonomy plan marks a Moroccan diplomatic breakthrough in Scandinavian countries and is part of an international momentum in favor of a solution to the Sahara conflict within the framework of Moroccos sovereignty. It came a few days after France clearly expressed support for the autonomy plan for the Sahara under Moroccos Sovereignty and said autonomy was the only basis to end the conflict. It is also part of the momentum within the European Union, Finland becoming the 17th EU member state to support autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty. In the joint communique, the Moroccan and Finnish top diplomats expressed the two countries willingness to strengthen economic and trade relations. They agreed to expand annual political consultations and hold a joint business seminar in 2025 to facilitate dialogue between investors. Huge business opportunities are offered in several sectors, especially in digitalization, cyber-security and the deployment of secured 5G networks which are important for national security, investors and digital economy. Morocco is looking forward to benefiting from Finlands experiences and know-how in renewable energies, de-carbonization, smart water management and green hydrogen, healthcare sector Finland hails Moroccos important contributions to the EU-Africa partnership, regional cooperation & stability, the fight against terrorism and illegal migration. Morocco praises Finlands Africa Strategy and voices willingness to support it at the bilateral level and through tripartite cooperation with African countries. After a break on Sunday, the movement to put an end to bad governance is expected to resume its marches and occupations across Nigeria this week. Despite the dialogue proposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, not a single voice was heard to accept the invitation. On the contrary, reactions to the Head of States speech were almost unanimously negative. In a post on X, Bring Back Our Girls leader Oby Ezekwesili wrote: Tinubus speech was a monumental missed opportunity to appease citizens with solid answers. A similar tone was struck by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. For him, Ahmed Bola Tinubu neglects the pressing economic difficulties that have beset Nigerian families since the beginning of his tenure. Debo Ologunagba, a spokesman for the PDP, the main opposition party, believes that the Head of State is not proposing anything concrete. He denounced the absence of any immediate decision to reduce fuel prices. Lawyer Femi Falana, defender of Ogoni activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, deplored Bola Ahmed Tinubus failure to condemn the brutality of the Nigerian security forces. Wole Soyinka, a close friend of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had harsher words to say. For the Nobel Prize winner for literature, firing live ammunition at peaceful demonstrators lamenting hunger symbolizes a disturbing regression of the kind that most likely precedes revolutions. On the side of the majority, no major voice was heard in support of the presidents speech. Angola and Cape Verde signed a cooperation protocol in Luanda on Monday August 5 on public administration, administrative reform, human resources management, and citizen support services. The document was initialled by Angolas Minister of Public Administration, Teresa Dias, and Cape Verdes Minister of State Modernization and Public Administration, Edna Oliveira. In her speech, Teresa Dias said that this protocol, which has been under negotiation for some time, aims to gather experiences from Cape Verde on human resources management, integrated citizen support services and public administration reform. Dias stressed that the agreement also aims to share with Cape Verde Angolas experience in the field of the single recruiting entity, the School of Administration and Public Policy, among others. With this instrument that we have signed, we believe that the necessary steps have been taken so that our technical teams can be trained and we can then start working on materializing our objective, she stressed. The Angolan minister pointed out that there are still several constraints in the countrys public administration, but that the paths to better efficiency have been identified, admitting that there is still a long way to go. In Rwanda, the authorities have closed more than 4,000 places of worship in recent weeks in a wide-ranging operation: churches and mosques, which were in breach of safety standards and new administrative rules, according to the government body in charge of the dossier. Among the places of worship closed by Rwandas national governance office were a majority of small Pentecostal churches and several mosques. In all, 4,223 establishments have closed their doors. The reason for this was a failure to comply with a number of regulations: first and foremost, the safety of sites without fire extinguishers and fire alarms, for example, or those set up illegally in cellars or too close to watercourses. Other criteria put forward by the authorities to explain these closures include: failure to comply with soundproofing requirements to prevent nuisance to neighbors during prayers, and the qualifications of those in charge: parish church leaders must hold a university degree in theology. New rules, the result of a law passed in 2018 to control the proliferation of places of worship, deemed at the time too numerous by President Paul Kagame. More than 700 establishments were closed when the legislation was passed. The others were given five years to bring themselves up to standard, and several thousand were unsuccessful. Fourteen Ugandan opposition officials and supporters were arrested while marching towards the Kenyan embassy in Kampala. The protest was in response to Kenyas recent detention and deportation of their colleagues. This incident occurs against a backdrop of anti-government demonstrations in both Uganda and Kenya. The arrests follow the deportation of 36 members of Ugandas Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) from Kenya last month. These individuals, who had traveled to Kenya for a training course, were subsequently charged with terrorism-related offenses upon their return to Uganda charges they have denied. Mondays march, which included two lawmakers, was met with swift action by Ugandan police. The arrested individuals were charged with being a public nuisance in a magistrates court, with some released on bail and others remanded to prison. This event has reignited criticisms from opposition figures and human rights campaigners, who accuse President Yoweri Musevenis government of using fabricated charges to suppress political opponents. Government officials have consistently denied these allegations. The arrests highlight the ongoing tensions between Ugandas long-standing government, led by 79-year-old Museveni since 1986, and opposition groups seeking political change. It also underscores the regional dynamics at play, with both Uganda and Kenya grappling with political unrest and opposition movements. 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 Sepsis occurs when one's immune system has an extreme response to an infection. It's a life-threatening condition: globally, it accounts for about 11 million deaths20% of all deaths per year. And it doesn't just affect adults. In 2020, 2.4 million newborn babies died of sepsis in the first month of their lives. Most of these deaths happened in sub-Saharan Africa. The main treatment for sepsis is antibiotics. However, the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in human medicine and agriculture has led to antimicrobial resistancea process in which bacteria, fungi and parasites have developed the ability to resist the action of medicines. The World Health Organization describes antimicrobial resistance as one of the top global public health and development threats. This growing resistance is due to the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in both human medicine and in farming. They're used in large quantities to grow crops and in animal feeds to treat and reduce the risk of infection in livestock. It has been forecast that, by 2050, more people will die from antimicrobial resistance than both cancer and diabetes combined. Sub-Saharan Africa is one of the regions with the highest rates of deaths associated with antimicrobial resistance (including sepsis) in the world, with 23.5 deaths per 100,000 people. In our latest study we found that samples taken from mothers and newborn babies younger than one week in Nigeria already had colistin-resistant bacteria present in their bodies. But neither the babies nor their mothers had been treated with colistin. Colistin is one of the last remaining antibiotics that is still effective in killing bacteria and fighting infections such as pneumonia. It is deemed critically important for human medicine by the World Health Organization. We surmise that mothers may have picked up these colistin resistant bacteria from the environment. We cannot speculate on the specific mechanism. The babies, meanwhile, could have picked up the bacteria from the hospital, the community, or from their mothers. It's not yet known if these colistin-resistant bacteria stay in the mothers or babiesbut if they do this may increase their chances of acquiring future drug-resistant infections. How we did our study The samples from newborn babies and their mothers in our study were collected between 2015 and 2017 from three hospitals in Kano and Abuja. This research is the largest ever screening of intestinal microbiota for colistin resistance in Nigeria. Of the 4,907 samples we analyzed in our Cardiff and Oxford laboratories, we found that 1% of samples had genes conferring colistin resistance, across 41 mothers and eight babies. Although this is a low percentage, it is extremely worrying that any babies were carrying colistin-resistant bacteria within their first week of life. Colistin is rarely used in hospitals and clinics in Nigeria. Therefore, our findings suggest that resistance may have emerged from the increasing use of colistin in agricultural settings in the country. We are continuing our research with collaborators in Nigeria to further understand the levels of resistance in both the health care system and more broadly. Dangers of using antibiotics in agriculture Globally, more antibiotics are prescribed to animals than to humans. Most of this consumption is not to treat infections; rather, it is to prevent infections or promote faster growth in animals. In 2016 mobile colistin (mcr) genes were discovered in E. coli bacteria from a pig farm in China. These genes carry resistance to the antibiotic colistin, and can spread between bacteria, furthering colistin resistance. This discovery led to a total ban on colistin's agricultural use in China. In February 2022, European laws were expanded to make it illegal to add antibiotics to livestock feeds as a precaution to prevent infections before they start. However, in a study we published in 2023, we found that, while European countries have banned the use of colistin in farming, paradoxically they still actively export livestock feeds that contain colistin to low- and middle-income countries such as Nigeria for agriculture use. It seems a highly questionable practice to knowingly profit by selling feedstuffs banned for use in Europe to developing countries that lack these regulationsparticularly when these countries already suffer from some of the highest rates globally of endemic antimicrobial resistance for common antibiotics and treatment alternatives are either prohibitively expensive or completely inaccessible. Estimates suggest that globally almost 100,000 tons of antibiotics were used to raise cattle, sheep, chickens, and pigs in 2022. This usage is expected to increase by another 8% by 2030 and will lead to a direct increase in antibiotic-resistant infections. Call for a total ban There needs to be a global ban on colistin's indiscriminate agricultural use to preserve this crucial antibiotic for when it is urgently required. However, this is a delicate balance. A ban without alternative solutions will likely affect food production and adversely affect farmers' livelihoods in already challenging climates. And, with the world's population set to increase by about 2 billion by 2050, demand for affordable meat will only rise. Urgent investment is also needed in hospital infection prevention and control programs and improved water, sanitation and hygiene facilities in farms to help to limit the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria around these environments. Animals should be given antibiotics only when they are sick. These antibiotics should be selected from those the World Health Organization has listed as being "least important" to human health rather than from those classified as "highest priority/critically important." In September 2024, during the UN General Assembly in New York, leaders from governments, industry, financial institutions and scientific organizations will come together for a UN High-Level meeting on antimicrobial resistance. This meeting offers a timely opportunity for global leaders to set some targets to reduce antibiotic use in farming and support farmers in low- and middle-income countries to improve farm hygiene practices. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Earpiece assembly, fit, and manufacturing process. Credit: Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48682-7 Everyone gets sleepy at work from time to time, especially after a big lunch. But for people whose jobs involve driving or working with heavy machinery, drowsiness can be extremely dangerousif not outright deadly. Drowsy driving contributes to hundreds of fatal vehicle accidents in the U.S. each year, and the National Safety Council has cited drowsiness as a critical hazard in construction and mining. To help protect drivers and machine operators from the dangers of drifting off, engineers at the University of California, Berkeley, have created prototype earbuds that can detect the signs of drowsiness in the brain. The earbuds detect brain waves in the same way as an electroencephalogram (EEG), a test that doctors use to measure electrical activity in the brain. While most EEGs detect brain waves using a series of electrodes attached to the head, the earbuds do so using built-in electrodes that are designed to make contact with the ear canal. The electrical signals detected by the ear buds are smaller than those picked up by a traditional EEG. However, in a new study published in Nature Communications, the researchers show that their Ear EEG platform is sensitive enough to detect alpha waves, a pattern of brain activity that increases when you close your eyes or start to fall asleep. "I was inspired when I bought my first pair of Apple's AirPods in 2017. I immediately thought, "What an amazing platform for neural recording,'" said study senior author Rikky Muller, an associate professor of electrical engineering and computer sciences at UC Berkeley. "We believe that this technology has many potential uses, and that classifying drowsiness is a good indicator that the technology can be used to classify sleep and even diagnose sleep disorders." Using an earbud as an EEG electrode poses a variety of practical challenges. In order to obtain an accurate EEG, electrodes need to make good contact with the skin. This is relatively easy to achieve in traditional EEGs, which use flat metal electrodes stuck to the scalp. However, it is much trickier to design an earbud that will fit snuglyand comfortablyin a wide variety of ear sizes and shapes. When Muller's team started working on the project, other groups developing Ear EEG platforms were either using wet electrode gels to ensure a good seal between the earbud and the ear canal, or creating custom-molded earpieces for each individual user. She and her team wanted to design a model that was dry and user generic, so that anyone could stick them in their ears and get reliable readings. "My personal goal was to try to make a device that could be used every day by someone who would really benefit from it," said Ryan Kaveh, a UC Berkeley postdoctoral scholar and co-first author of the study. "In order to do that, I knew that it would have to be reusable, fit a variety of people, and [be]easy to manufacture." Kaveh co-led the study with graduate student Carolyn Schwendeman and collaborated with Ana Arias's lab at UC Berkeley to design the final earpiece in three sizes: small, medium and large. The earpiece incorporates multiple electrodes in a cantilevered design that applies gentle outward pressure to the ear canal and uses flexible electronics to ensure a comfortable fit. The signals are read out through a custom, low-power, wireless electronic interface. In a 2020 paper, the researchers showed that these earpieces can detect a number of physiological signals, including eye blinks, alpha brain waves and the auditory steady-state response, which is the brain's response to hearing a steady pitch. In the new study, they improved the earpiece design and incorporated machine learning to demonstrate how the earpieces could be used in a real-world application. As part of the experiment, they asked nine volunteers to wear the earpieces while doing a series of boring tasks in a darkened room. Every so often, the volunteers were asked to rate their level of drowsiness, and their response times were measured. "We found that even when the signal quality from the earpieces seemed worse, we could still classify the onset of drowsiness with the same level of accuracy as much more complicated, bulky systems," Kaveh said. The earpieces also retain their accuracy when categorizing drowsiness in brand-new users, a characteristic of devices that could work "out of the box." Muller, who developed the Ear EEG, is continuing to refine the design and explore other potential applications of the device, which can also record signals beyond EEG, such as heart beats, eye movements and jaw clenches. "Wireless earbuds are something we already wear all the time," Muller said. "That's what makes Ear EEG such a compelling approach to wearables. It doesn't require anything extra." More information: Ryan Kaveh et al, Wireless ear EEG to monitor drowsiness, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48682-7 Journal information: Nature Communications This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain During COVID-19, Sweden's ability to manage crises and production planning in health care came into focus. Neither regional management nor hospital directors had any experience with a pandemic. Ritva Rosenback, in her doctoral thesis "Capacity Management in Swedish Hospitals during the COVID-19 Pandemic" at University West, researched how emergency departments, intensive care units, and inpatient care built capacity to care for COVID patients. Rosenback is a chemical engineer and has worked as a manager both in industry and health care. Nowadays, she divides her time as an expert at the National Board of Health and Welfare, writing books, doing actual production planning in health care organizations, and conducting research. "It became clear that intensive care needed the most capacity. When I started researching in November 2020, the pandemic had passed its most acute phase, and I wanted to investigate how capacity needed to be balanced daily against the various health care needs," says Rosenback, doctor in production technology. The care required during the pandemic differed from the care normally provided. In a major accident, a rescue leader at the accident site calls an on-call official in the region who then distributes patients between hospitals, ensuring those who need the most care get it. "At the beginning of the pandemic, it was the ICU Managers who were in contact with colleagues in Italy and learned about the severe situation. When patients started arriving at hospitals, the regions decided to open external ICU departments. At the hospitals, they preferred to use the surgery unit because of its familiar environment, and this was possible when planned operations had been canceled." Prefer adaptive over rigid The pandemic lasted a long time and the health care needs changed in waves, unlike an accident which is usually short and sudden. In the thesis, Rosenback could show that the decision hierarchy during the pandemic worked better if it was delegated rather than centralized. Every day new situations arose that were unfamiliar to doctors who did not know how to care for the patients. Experienced doctors said it felt like they were thrown back to their internship. "The organization needed to be adaptive rather than rigid. They had to learn what worked and didn't know which competencies were needed when. Additionally, the pandemic came in waves, so between waves, they returned to regular care. In this strange situation, they greatly benefited from each other's work. Among other things, medical associations held webinars on Wednesdays where they shared the latest findings," says Rosenback. There was a lack of initiative from the authorities in disseminating knowledge. Medical journals published articles without review to get information out as quickly as possible. It was judged that the benefits outweighed the disadvantages, even if there was no fully established evidence. Three crucial consequences In the study, Rosenback conducted both qualitative interviews and a quantitative survey, with inductive, exploratory, and deductive analysis methods. In the study, she identified three crucial needs of adaptive leadership during a prolonged event like the pandemic: how prepared the organization was, how the early phase was handled, and what resources they had in terms of materials, personnel, and facilities. "Good crisis preparedness requires a low occupancy rate, something we don't have in Sweden today. It is difficult because low occupancy costs money. But things that can be done in preparation include making agreements on how to move staff in a crisis. The organization could also train staff in other tasks beforehand, such as ICU care." In the early phase, it is important to gather as much information as possible and to identify who suddenly gets a heavy workload, where there is excess staff, and who needs to learn things. Those with specialized skills must stay where they are needed most and get all the capacity they need. Meetings should be frequent but short, and preferably digital. "You should not have a rigid plan, you should have a plan to make a plan, because you don't know what you need," says Rosenback. Lessons for the future Could the pandemic have been handled differently, given the conditions? "It would obviously have been good to understand earlier that even health care staff infected each other, but there was a need to save on protective equipment. The organizations could have been quicker to train the category of staff that had too little to do. They learned as time went on, and learning turned out to be a key factor along with positive storytelling. "If the staff who moved to the ICU, for example, could return to their department with an okay picture, it motivated others to move." More information: Capacity management in Swedish hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic. www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/ 56493/FULLTEXT03.pdf Provided by University West 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 Findings from ADVANCE study, looked at suicidal ideation within UK military personnel who sustained a serious physical combat injury on deployment in Afghanistan, and compared them to demographically similar individuals who sustained no such injuries. The results are published in the International Journal of Social Psychiatry. The ADVANCE Study is a collaboration between King's College London, Imperial College London and the Ministry of Defence, and investigates the long term physical and psycho-social outcomes of UK combat casualties from the Afghanistan conflict. Developing an understanding of whether combat injury is associated with higher rates of suicidal ideation will help service providers, policy makers and researchers ensure that appropriate resources and support can be offered to injured serving personnel and veterans to reduce the risk of future suicidal-related behaviors. Dr. Dan Dyball, first author of the study, explains, "Defence and medical technology progressed at such a significant pace during the Afghanistan conflict, individuals were surviving injuries that they would not have survived at any other point in history. As such, we have very little idea about their long-term outcomes. ADVANCE is set up to help us understand what happens to these individuals, whether in terms of their mental health, their cardiovascular health, their respiratory healthall of it really." The study found that 15.3% of those who sustained serious physical combat injuries reported suicidal ideation within the past two weeks, compared with 11.9% of the comparison group. Further analysis suggests that the type of injury is an important factor to consider with those who sustained an amputation showing lower rates of suicidal ideation at 8.5% compared to those with non-amputation injuries who reported higher rates at 17.6%. This is in line with previous research from the ADVANCE study, which found that those with amputation injuries did not differ from the comparison group in rates of anxiety, depression or PTSD, while those with non-amputation injuries had increased rates of these disorders. The study also explored the impact of leaving service, as veterans in both the injured and comparison group were considerably more likely to report suicidal ideation than their still-serving peers. A surprise finding of the study was that veterans who sustained no serious physical combat injuries reported the highest rates of ideation, at 28.9% compared to veterans who sustained amputation injuries (8.9%) and non-amputation injuries (21.4%). "We've seen that most individuals in ADVANCE with amputation injuries have remarkable mental health and pain outcomes considering their injuries. But surprisingly, it's those with non-amputation related injuries that appear to be at increased risk of mental health problems, and specifically suicidal ideation in this study. "Leaving service appears to be strongly associated with suicidal ideation, regardless of whether you sustained an injury or not. This may be because these individuals lose connection to their military support networks, have difficulty in transitioning to civilian life, or lose part of their group identity," says Dr. Dan Dyball, King's Centre for Military Health Research, King's IoPPN. The ADVANCE Study has 1,145 participants who served in the Afghanistan conflict of 2002-2014. Half of the cohort sustained serious physical combat injuries, and the other half are demographically similar personnel who sustained no such injuries. More information: Daniel Dyball et al, Suicidal ideation in male UK military personnel who sustained a physical combat injury in Afghanistan and the mediating role of leaving service: The ADVANCE cohort study, International Journal of Social Psychiatry (2024). DOI: 10.1177/00207640241264195 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Vast swaths of the nation, both urban and rural, are deemed "food deserts" due to their reduced access to a variety of healthy and inexpensive food. Often, people living in food deserts also experience higher poverty levels. "In the U.S., we have a major issue regarding the inequitable distribution of resources that extends to our food supply," said Tera Fazzino, associate professor of psychology at the University of Kansas. "There are communities all across the U.S. that don't have access to fresh, healthy foodsometimes referred to as food deserts. In these communities, they're saturated with foods that are packaged, hyperpalatable and have very limited options for fresh, healthy and nutritious food that we need to live healthy and productive lives." In response, Fazzino, along with a multidisciplinary group of researchers across several institutions, will help create an artificial-intelligence-powered digital tool, called the NOURISH platform, to help businesses and startups operating in food deserts give more nutritious choices to an estimated 24 million Americans. The work is led by Laura Schmidt, professor at the University of California-San Francisco. "The overall project is designed with the goal of accelerating the growth of fresh food businesses in communities that have limited access to fresh food," said Fazzino, who serves as a lead scientist on the NOURISH team. "We're aiming to utilize some geospatial analyses and tools and artificial intelligence to facilitate this development, consolidate large volumes of information and help individuals from these communities connect all the pieces to launch or expand fresh food businesses in places that don't have many." The multidisciplinary and institutional effort is based at the University of California-San Francisco and includes the University of California-San Diego, New York University and the International Center for Food Ontology Operability Data and Semantics (IC-FOODS). At KU, the research will center on food psychology and the food-environment realmlong-standing research interests of Fazzino, who also serves as associate director of the Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research & Treatment in KU's Life Span Institute and has helped define and study hyperpalatable foods. "I'm working on collecting data sources and collaborating with our computer science team to gather information for what we're calling an 'opportunities map,'" she said. "This AI-enabled tool will suggest areas where one might want to open a business based on various metrics." Fazzino's team at KU will also source data for a digital tool within the NOURISH platform to link entrepreneurs interested in starting new food businesses with local providers in their areasmall farms and producers of fresh fooddirectly facilitating that link in the production side. Datasets will be processed by the Supercomputer Center of UC San Diego to include government, private sector and crowdsourced information. The NOURISH platform will feature "dynamic, interactive maps of local food systems across the U.S. accessible from a mobile phone in multiple languages," according to the researchers. Further, patented recommendation algorithms will enable the NOURISH platform to customize business plans based on local consumer preferences for price, convenience and flavor. In addition, Fazzino is heading up the nationwide training program under the NOURISH program to train "several generations" of scientists interested in sustainable food systems that promote equitable access to fresh and healthy food. "We're taking the stance that using AI and geospatial modeling combined with deep collaboration and community-based design can significantly improve equitable food access," she said. "Part of this involves making people aware of why our food system is the way it is, understanding its origins and training them to develop skills in creating a sustainable food system for the long term. We focus on how advanced data science and analytical modeling can address these issues." The KU researcher's approach includes ongoing collaborations with the USDA's 4-H program, an agricultural program for youths, as well as working with a group that has been doing geospatial and food mapping work at the high school level in several states. In 202425, the NOURISH team will test the platform in lower-income areas within San Diego and Imperial counties in California, then plan to scale it nationally. 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 As the United States government considers major policy decisions regarding social media, including a potential forced sale of TikTok and new legislation to protect young users, the comprehensiveness of research informing these decisions faces scrutiny. A 2024 report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM), titled "Social Media and Adolescent Health" may help shape those decisions, but a Rutgers Health expert believes the panel should have included more public health experts and considered more study results. Jon-Patrick Allem, an associate professor at the Rutgers School of Public Health, discussed the NASEM report in a recent American Journal of Public Health editorial. He laid out his ideas for improvement with Rutgers Today. How could panel membership have been better? The NASEM appointed only one person from a school of public health to this committee. This is a significant oversight because public health scholars have a rich history of studying how private sector activities, including those of social media companies, affect people's health. I'm also concerned that two experts on the committee have received industry funding. These conflicts of interest can reduce the integrity of the committee report. Those trained in public health, especially in areas like tobacco control and alcohol prevention, understand the importance of qualifying research from industry-funded scientists. What sort of studies were considered by the panel? There was a narrow focus on screen time and mental health outcomes. Many studies included in the report use blunt measures of social media use, generally time spent on platforms, without considering the specific content user's view. The outcomes are usually limited to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. This approach misses crucial aspects of how social media affects adolescent health. Time alone doesn't tell us muchone could spend hours watching educational videos or hours watching content that glamorizes substance use. These experiences would have very different impacts, but studies measuring only time on social media would treat them equally. What extra study results would have improved the report? The report overlooked several critical pieces of evidence, particularly studies on how specific content on social media platforms can affect offline attitudes and behaviors in young people. For example, meta-analyses show associations between exposure to pro-alcohol content on social media and offline alcohol use among adolescents. Similar studies exist for tobacco and unhealthy food content. These content-focused studies provide crucial insights into how social media influences adolescent behavior beyond just mental health outcomes. By omitting this evidence, the report fails to provide a comprehensive assessment of the relationship between social media and adolescent health. What should happen going forward to collect better information? First, we need more transparency from social media companies. They should be required to disclose the materials that guide content moderation. This would allow for more meaningful scrutiny. Finally, we need a broader, more holistic approach to studying social media's impact on adolescent health. This means looking beyond just mental health outcomes to consider how social media exposure affects various health behaviors, from substance use to nutrition to body image. How should this information inform future government policy? Policymakers need to consider the full range of ways social media can impact adolescent health, not just screen time or mental health outcomes. They should push for greater transparency from social media companies about the content on their platforms, including what kind of potentially harmful content exists, how prevalent it is and how easily adolescents can see it. We should also fund comprehensive, interdisciplinary research on social media's impact on adolescent health. This research should inform evidence-based policies that can effectively protect young people while still allowing for the potential benefits of social media use. By taking these steps, we can develop a more nuanced and effective approach to regulating social media and protecting adolescent health in the digital age. Photo taken on Aug. 6, 2024 shows an area affected by floods in Abu Hamad city, northern Sudan. Heavy rains and floods have been hitting Abu Hamad city in the River Nile state, northern Sudan, since Monday evening, destroying nearly 70 percent of the city's houses and killing at least 11 people, according to local news outlets and eyewitnesses. (Photo by Emad Khalil/Xinhua) KHARTOUM, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Heavy rains and floods have been hitting Abu Hamad city in the River Nile state, northern Sudan, since Monday evening, destroying nearly 70 percent of the city's houses and killing at least 11 people, according to local news outlets and eyewitnesses. "Heavy rains have battered Abu Hamad city for nine hours, leading to significant property losses, which have not yet been counted," the Sudanese Altaghyeer news website said. An eyewitness in the city told Xinhua, on condition of anonymity, that at least 11 deaths were recorded inside the morgue of Abu Hamad Hospital, with dozens of injuries, due to the torrential rains and subsequent collapse of hundreds of homes. The Abu Hamad Resistance Committee, a local popular group, said in a statement that the heavy rains and floods resulted in the collapse of about 70 percent of the homes with several injuries, including women, elderly people, and children, who were transferred to hospitals. For his part, Al-Munzir Ahmed Al-Haj, a Sudanese meteorologist, confirmed on his Facebook page on Tuesday that 70 percent of the houses in Abu Hamad have collapsed due to the heavy rains. According to eyewitnesses from the area, the gold grinding mills market in the city was also greatly affected. Abu Hamad, some 538 km north of the Sudanese capital Khartoum, is one of the largest gold exploration areas in Sudan. It has recently become a major economic center thanks to the gold exploration operations. On Monday, Sudan's Health Ministry announced that at least 32 people were killed and 107 others wounded due to the recent torrential rains and floods hitting several Sudanese states during June and July. Flooding is a yearly occurrence in Sudan, typically happening between June and October. Over the past three years, heavy rains have claimed hundreds of lives and destroyed vast swathes of agricultural land. This year's rainy season has further compounded the hardships faced by those affected by the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Sudan has been witnessing a deadly conflict between the SAF and the RSF since April 15, 2023, resulting in the loss of at least 16,650 lives. An estimated 10.7 million people are now internally displaced in Sudan, with approximately 2.2 million others seeking refuge in neighboring countries, according to the UN data released on Monday. Photo taken on Aug. 6, 2024 shows buildings destroyed by floods in Abu Hamad city, northern Sudan. Heavy rains and floods have been hitting Abu Hamad city in the River Nile state, northern Sudan, since Monday evening, destroying nearly 70 percent of the city's houses and killing at least 11 people, according to local news outlets and eyewitnesses. (Photo by Emad Khalil/Xinhua) Photo taken on Aug. 6, 2024 shows an area affected by floods in Abu Hamad city, northern Sudan. Heavy rains and floods have been hitting Abu Hamad city in the River Nile state, northern Sudan, since Monday evening, destroying nearly 70 percent of the city's houses and killing at least 11 people, according to local news outlets and eyewitnesses. (Photo by Emad Khalil/Xinhua) Photo taken on Aug. 6, 2024 shows an area affected by floods in Abu Hamad city, northern Sudan. Heavy rains and floods have been hitting Abu Hamad city in the River Nile state, northern Sudan, since Monday evening, destroying nearly 70 percent of the city's houses and killing at least 11 people, according to local news outlets and eyewitnesses. (Photo by Emad Khalil/Xinhua) Photo taken on Aug. 6, 2024 shows an area affected by floods in Abu Hamad city, northern Sudan. Heavy rains and floods have been hitting Abu Hamad city in the River Nile state, northern Sudan, since Monday evening, destroying nearly 70 percent of the city's houses and killing at least 11 people, according to local news outlets and eyewitnesses. (Photo by Emad Khalil/Xinhua) People inspect a building destroyed by floods in Abu Hamad city, northern Sudan, on Aug. 6, 2024. Heavy rains and floods have been hitting Abu Hamad city in the River Nile state, northern Sudan, since Monday evening, destroying nearly 70 percent of the city's houses and killing at least 11 people, according to local news outlets and eyewitnesses. (Photo by Emad Khalil/Xinhua) Photo taken on Aug. 6, 2024 shows an area affected by floods in Abu Hamad city, northern Sudan. Heavy rains and floods have been hitting Abu Hamad city in the River Nile state, northern Sudan, since Monday evening, destroying nearly 70 percent of the city's houses and killing at least 11 people, according to local news outlets and eyewitnesses. (Photo by Emad Khalil/Xinhua) Photo taken on Aug. 6, 2024 shows a building destroyed by floods in Abu Hamad city, northern Sudan. Heavy rains and floods have been hitting Abu Hamad city in the River Nile state, northern Sudan, since Monday evening, destroying nearly 70 percent of the city's houses and killing at least 11 people, according to local news outlets and eyewitnesses. (Photo by Emad Khalil/Xinhua) Photo taken on Aug. 6, 2024 shows an area affected by floods in Abu Hamad city, northern Sudan. Heavy rains and floods have been hitting Abu Hamad city in the River Nile state, northern Sudan, since Monday evening, destroying nearly 70 percent of the city's houses and killing at least 11 people, according to local news outlets and eyewitnesses. (Photo by Emad Khalil/Xinhua) As we approach the general election, voters will be inundated with advertisements some positive, some negative, and some untruthful. How can a voter sift through all this information? One way is to learn about each candidate. I was born and raised in Montana, where I also raised my five children. Growing up on a farm and ranch in eastern Montana taught me to work hard and appreciate Montana values, fortunately protected by the rights enshrined in our 1972 Montana Constitution. Our Constitution ensures equal educational opportunities, which benefited my family because my children and I graduated from Montanas excellent public schools and universities. I understand the importance of a clean and healthful environment, which our Constitution requires, because our family would not have been able to feed our cattle or ourselves without healthy soil and water that allowed grass, hay, and small grains to grow. I appreciate the significance of access to public lands and water because not all private property owners allow access to their lands for hunting, fishing, and other recreational activities. We Montanans lead quite transparent lives in communities where we know much more about each other than those living in large urban areas do. Despite this transparency, or maybe because of it, Montanans appreciate the right to privacy the Montana Constitution protects and understand it supports their rugged individualism. With 39 years of legal experience, including four terms elected by voters as a District Judge, I believe voters value honesty, integrity, impartiality, and nonpartisanship in our judiciary. My judicial record shows that I am tough, fair, and impartial, providing access to justice for all Montanans. Yet, I understand that sometimes people need a different approach. In 2006, I established the first treatment court east of Billings, saving taxpayer money, reducing crime, and helping people with substance use disorder issues transform their lives. My judicial philosophy is one of restraint. I keep an open mind, focus on relevant facts, apply established law, and address constitutional challenges using the U.S. and Montana Constitutions. My judicial temperament is courteous and respectful, always honoring the dignity of each litigant. Despite political polarization, my travels have shown that most Montanans share common values and have an uncanny ability to detect the truth. I encourage you to seek credible, truthful information about the candidates running for office in this and every race. I have confidence that a well-informed Montana voter will make the right decision. As we prepare to vote, let's remember our common ground and the treasures of Montana, especially its people. I trust that Montana voters will again reject negative ads and vote to keep our judiciary fair and impartial. A helicopter flight Sunday above the Grouse Fire southwest of Wise River mapped the wildfire at 2,600 acres, roughly equivalent to 4 square miles. A Sunday update from the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest had put the fire at about 2,097 acres. Personnel assigned to the fire numbered 234 Monday. Fire activity has increased to the south towards Pettengill Creek and north toward Grouse Lakes, the Forest Service reported Monday. Fire behavior was moderated Sunday but the Grouse Fire still made a push north toward Grouse Lakes, the agency said. The Forest Service said crews continue to secure and mop-up all residual heat adjacent to private lands near Pettengill Road and other crews continue to work with structure protection equipment near residences. Additional resources are expected to extend structure protection, improving fireline from Pettengill Creek towards Reservoir Creek, the Forest Service said. The creek is named for George Pettingill, though the spelling of the last name often differs in historical accounts. He was known in the late 1800s as the Wild Man of Wise River for living off the land, rejecting authority and convention and embracing life as a recluse who sometimes frightened people he encountered in the woods, streams and fields. Meanwhile, firefighting vehicles and equipment are evident in the vicinity of the Pettengill recreation area off the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway. The fire camp is closer to Wise River, in the vicinity of the Wise River airport. In 2021, firefighters gathered there to fight the Alder Creek Fire, which ended up being 36,968 acres, and the Trail Creek Fire, ultimately estimated to be 62,013 acres. Ultimately, crews in 2021 headquartered out of Dillon because communications were better. On Monday, the Forest Service said active fire behavior is expected to continue with movement primarily up the Grouse Creek drainage and sub-drainages. Whether from a friend or a stranger, reading an encouraging letter can often brighten peoples days. That's the mindset Tony Loconsole took when looking to help a local student. Last Thursday, Loconsole asked his Facebook followers to visit the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Childrens Hospitals website and use its free patient letter program to write a letter of support and encouragement for Jack Schroeder, a Muscatine student who has been at the hospital for more than two weeks due to contracting COVID-19 and later a secondary pneumonia. As explained by Jacks mother, Maranda Schroeder, Jack has Coffin-Siris syndrome, a rare neuromuscular genetic disorder that causes developmental delays, epilepsy and respiratory issues, making him more susceptible to respiratory illnesses. (Having COVID and pneumonia) both back-to-back has been a struggle, Maranda Schroeder shared. Still, she noted that Jack has been in good spirits in between getting plenty of rest, with his recent collection of letters further adding to this. Loconsole that he met Jack and Maranda, alongside Jacks younger brother, through his work at Hy-Vee and later the Muscatine Community School District. I would see the family often and always enjoyed interacting with them, he said. (Loconsole's) always been very supportive of us as a family and our challenges with Jack, Schroeder said. Hes such a nice guy. Beyond this, Tony has also helped the family fundraise for the annual epilepsy walk and had also previously sent Jack a letter through the hospitals program. I love that the University of Iowa provides the service of sending letters to patients in their hospital systems, he said. As such, when he heard about Jacks current stay at the hospital, Loconsole took it upon himself to encourage others to send letters, wanting Jack and his family to know that the community was thinking about them and supporting them. In the time since making the Facebook post, Jack has received at least 40 letters from people and businesses in the Muscatine community alongside previous letters from his family, friends, and the CSS community. Although she wasnt surprised by the gesture, Schroeder said she was greatly touched by it. I just thought it was really sweet," she said. Through reading all the letters to her son, she added that in addition to them making Jack happy, they also helped her feel less alone in her familys struggles. It can be really isolating being in the hospital, especially when youre here for a long time, and its just nice to know that people from home are thinking about us and cheering us on, she said. It was really cool to see all these letters, and we really do appreciate it. Every single word of support matters, and it really keeps us going. Those seemingly small gestures can really add up, and it really does mean a lot to people who are struggling or hospitalized. Loconsole said it "was wonderful" to hear about how many letters Jack had received. I wasn't overly surprised because I know how much our community cares about each other," he said. "I'm grateful to everyone who took the time to send Jack and the family a letter showing their support. Beyond continuing to be a supportive friend to the Schroeder family and sending his own letters, Loconsole said he hopes to continue supporting the UI Stead Family Childrens Hospital as well through supporting its fundraisers and toy drives. Whether it's sending a letter to Jack or others currently staying in the hospital, I think our world could benefit from more kindness, he said. That's something I try to remind myself of and know that I can do better by being kind every day." Those wishing to send Jack a letter can do so at uihc.org/send-letter-hospitalized-patient, making sure to select UI Stead Family Childrens Hospital" for the patient's location. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has alleged that a former NIS official he hired was tracked and shot by hired assassins. In an interview with Kikuyu vernacular stations, Gachagua revealed that he had employed the ex-NIS officer, who had been dismissed from the National Intelligence Service, to help tackle illicit brew. Gachagua stated that individuals aiming to intimidate him followed the officer and shot him. The bullet missed his head and hit his shoulder. To instill fear in me, as the officer was leaving his home in Kileleshwa, someone on a motorbike shot at him. The bullet missed his head and struck his shoulder. He spent a week at Nairobi Hospital where doctors removed the bullet, Gachagua said. The Deputy President further claimed that certain state entities, specifically the NIS and DCI, are being used to target and intimidate him. In the same interview, he alleged that his phone calls, as well as those of his close associates, are being intercepted. Every person I call has their conversations tapped and recorded. They are then questioned about what they wanted from me, despite my position as Deputy President, he added. These allegations follow Gachaguas recent criticism of NIS Director Noordin Hajji. He had accused Hajji of providing misleading information to President William Ruto during the nationwide protests against the Finance Bill 2024 in June. Gachagua called for Hajjis resignation, accusing him of failing to properly advise the president on the countrys direction. The Rev. Jonah Lee, senior pastor of Calvary Chapel Korea Community and representative of Holy Life, who had once been a practicing homosexual but changed lifestyle completely and became a human rights activist, passed away on July 30 at the age of 76. He had been battling lung cancer. A memorial service was held at Samsung Seoul Hospital's funeral hall on the 31st. During the service, Rev. Byeong-eon Kim of the Presbyterian Church in Korea, a 30-year friend of Rev. Lee, preached from 2 Corinthians 5:1-4. I spoke with Reverend Lee about twice a week. He was unable to preach for the last three weeks before his passing. He complained of pain, saying that he couldn't sleep at night and that even narcotic painkillers didn't work, he said. Let's believe that Reverend Lee has found rest in heaven after battling lung cancer. We should live in that hope. Let's ensure that the remaining congregation of Calvary Chapel inherits his faith and sparks spiritual revival. Friends who came to mourn Rev. Lee shared their tributes. One congregation member, Mr. Choi, said, Reverend Lee was always honest and treated us like friends. He preached according to the Bible and allowed us to experience Gods grace. He overcame homosexuality by relying on Jesus' name and spent his life helping others recover from homosexuality in Jesus' way. Another member, Mr. Yoon, said, Twenty years ago, when I was cornered by various mistakes and errors due to homosexuality, Reverend Lee accepted me warmly without any conditions. He helped me overcome my toughest times. I found clues to solving my homosexuality issues through his life. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up He added, I had nowhere to go back then, but Reverend Lee allowed me to stay at his house for six months. During my most fearful times, he gave me peace. Reading the Psalms with him helped restore my life. Rev. Lees brother, Elder Hee-chan Lee of Calvary Chapel, shared, I used to run a transgender bar in Itaewon with my brother. After he successfully overcame homosexuality, I also came to believe in Jesus. Without any external help or financial support, he dedicated himself to the ex-gay ministry, helping young people escape homosexuality. Even while battling cancer, he prioritized his ministry over his own health. He expressed his hope, saying, I hope Calvary Chapel Korea Community thrives and successfully continues the ex-gay ministry. May many homosexuals find healing and overcome their struggles through our church. Please pray for this. Dr. Seung-bok Lee, a former doctor at Johns Hopkins Hospital and a member of Calvary Chapel Korea Community, also delivered a eulogy. He shared, I moved to the U.S. at the age of 8 and became a gymnast. After an accident left me paralyzed, I overcame it through rehabilitation and became a specialist in rehabilitation medicine. I returned to Korea six years ago and started attending Calvary Chapel Seoul Church. While living in the U.S., I was saddened to hear that Korea was also grappling with homosexuality issues like the U.S. I was looking for a church to attend upon my return to Korea and decided to join Calvary Chapel Korea Community after watching Reverend Lees sermon videos. I wanted to learn his ex-gay counseling methods to help those struggling with homosexuality, he added. Reverend Lees life, where he overcame homosexuality and dedicated himself to the ex-gay ministry, was inspiring. He followed Gods calling with conviction and obedience. Rev. Jonah Lee first experienced homosexuality in fifth grade and fell deeply into it. In the early 1980s, he opened Koreas first gay bar in Itaewon, but later began studying theology after being evangelized by a church. In his early 40s, he overcame his homosexual tendencies and served as the senior pastor of Calvary Chapel Seoul Church, conducting biblical counseling and healing ministries for homosexuals and ex-gays. He also held the Holy Festival near Jonggak in Seoul on the day of the annual Queer Festival, advocating for ex-gays. Additionally, he worked with Methodist pastors to run educational programs on biblical responses to homosexuality. In his autobiographical essay, Escaping from Homosexuality, Reverend Lee expressed his hope for people in the pain of sin to meet Jesus. His major works include Coming Out Again: Truth and Freedom, Is Anyone There? I Am in Pain, and a series of expositions on the Gospels. Originally published on Christian Daily Korea. Translated and edited by Christian Daily International staff. Jama Hirbo and Tasu Hirbo are in police custody after allegedly attempting to bribe officers from the Transnational Organized Crime Unit. The duo was caught red-handed offering a bribe of Kes.50,000 to the officers at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters in Nairobi. The incident occurred in the Huruma area, Nairobi County. The suspects attempted to secure the release of human trafficking victims held at Isinya Police Station in Kajiado County by offering the bribe. The quick action by the DCI officers led to the immediate arrest of Jama and Tasu Hirbo. The bribe money was seized as evidence, and the suspects were escorted to Muthaiga Police Station for further processing. The police have reiterated their zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of law enforcement processes. Human trafficking remains a significant issue in Kenya, and the authorities have been actively working to dismantle networks involved in this illegal trade. The arrest of Jama and Tasu Hirbo highlights the ongoing efforts by the DCI and other law enforcement agencies to combat human trafficking and corruption within the system. The suspects will face charges related to bribery and any additional charges that may arise from the ongoing investigation. The DCI has called on the public to support their efforts by reporting any suspicious activities and ensuring that justice is served. President William Ruto signed the Supplementary Appropriations Bill into law on Monday, following its passage by the National Assembly on July 31, 2024. Despite fiscal constraints, the new law ensures funding for critical areas, including approximately Kes.20 billion to support farmers and boost agricultural production. The Supplementary Appropriations Act allocates Kes.120.7 billion for education reforms, including funding to confirm all Junior Secondary School teachers. It also designates Kes.31.3 billion for the Higher Education Loans Board. The Bill signed into law by President Ruto allocates Kes.16.2 billion for health sector reforms and the promotion of Universal Health Coverage. The law also addresses salary increases for security officers, setting aside Kes.3.5 billion to enhance remuneration for officers across various agencies, in line with recommendations from the National Taskforce on Police Reforms. Additionally, the new Act proposes reductions in recurrent and development expenditures for the three arms of government, constitutional commissions, and independent offices. The total reduction for the National Government amounts to Kes.145.7 billion, with Kes.40 billion cut from recurrent expenditure and KSh105 billion from development expenditure. Within this total, the Executive budget has been reduced by Kes.139.81 billion. Parliament faces a reduction of KSh3.7 billion, while the Judiciarys budget has been cut by Kes.2.1 billion. Specifically, State House and the Office of the Deputy President experienced cuts of Kes.6 billion, and the National Treasury saw a reduction of KSh7 billion. The Ministry of Healths allocation decreased by Kes.6.9 billion, and the budget for Roads and Transport was reduced by Kes.17.3 billion. Miguna Miguna has raised serious concerns over the nomination of Soipan Tuya as Cabinet Secretary for Defence, accusing President William Ruto of ulterior motives. In a statement on X, Miguna alleged that Tuyas appointment was illegal and aimed at militarizing the state, thereby granting Ruto more power in violation of the constitution. He controversially described Soipan Tuya as Rutos second and favorite wife, suggesting that this makes the President the de facto minister of defence. The illegal appointment of Soipan TUYA, who is @WilliamsRutos SECOND and favourite WIFE, as Cabinet Secretary for Defence, means that Ruto is the DE FACTO minister of defence. Its intended to MILITARIZE the State and PERSONALIZE power, in direct contravention of the Constitution, he tweeted. Miguna further alleged that President Ruto is adopting authoritarian tactics similar to those of Ugandas President Yoweri Museveni, posing a threat to democracy, rule of law, and good governance in Kenya. He also called on Kenyans to join the planned Nane Nane March on Thursday, August 8, 2024. Ruto is following @KagutaMusevenis authoritarian script. He has become an existential threat to democracy, rule of law, good governance and the principles of constitutionalism. Therefore, in military strategic terms, Kenyans must make August 8, 2024 Rutos WATERLOO. #RutoMustBeStopped #RutoRailaMustGO #RutoMustGo #OccupyEverewhere #NaneNaneMarch, Miguna posted on Twitter (X). When questioned about the alleged illegality of Tuyas appointment, Miguna explained, She was fired for infractions, including failure to meet chapter 6 of the constitution, and cogent reasons were given in a gazette notice. The Constitution states that a state/public officer who has been terminated under those circumstances cannot be reappointed. Its basic. Nothing complicated. But then again, some of you are beyond redemption. Migunas remarks have sparked mixed reactions, with some supporting his stance while others criticize his inflammatory language and accusations. My friend, this one you got it all wrong ! The Hon Soipan is a respected , diligent leader who minds her business. Why dont you cut her some slack and judge her based on her accomplishments and not her gender. A defense cabinet secretary is only there as a policy advisor to Sen. Ledama Olekina (@ledamalekina) August 5, 2024 Thousands of people participated in the March for Jesus in Bogota, Colombia with the slogan 'With Jesus Christ Colombia in peace'. Organized jointly by the Colombian Evangelical Confederation (CEDECOL) and the Catholic Church, the event mobilized Christians to pray to God for the nation. The participants gathered in the Plaza Bolivar, very close to the seat of government, to cry out and pray for the political situation of the country, while prayers were also offered for the delicate situation in Venezuela. Pastor Lyda Arias, president of CEDECOL, led the crowd in a prayer and during her speech made a special call to women to be wise as "co-heirs of the grace of life" (1 Peter 3). @preguntas_i Hola Sabrina, desde Bogota te informo que se esta llevando a cabo la marcha nacional por Jesus. pic.twitter.com/Ouhuy33Ca8 taniamecuenta (@taniavroldan) August 4, 2024 The walk had the character of a national mobilization, as similar events were reported in other important cities across the country. Before the march, the organizers highlighted that they would recite the first verse of the national anthem that says: "the whole of humanity, groaning in chains, understands the words of the one who died on the cross" a statement that every Colombian makes as he or she put their hand on their chest and sings the national song. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up "The mobilization, inspired by peaceful movements at international level, aims to gather Colombians in a joint prayer for the welfare and progress of the country, regardless of religious beliefs or political purposes," announced the Caracol Network days ago. The network reported through the TV program Noticias Caracol that "from the Plaza Mayor in front of the Primatial Cathedral" the "mobilization is massive" where "thousands of people arrived and left at approximately 12:15 p.m. from the National Park". "What they have told us," reported journalist David Molina from Bogota, "is that they are looking for a concrete space for peace to become a reality here, in Colombia. They affirm that they are not marching for any political interest. Nor any other interest other than to promote the call of Jesus Christ." Reporting from Bucaramanga, journalist Nataly Ayala pointed out that it was "a mobilization that does not distinguish religion". She also stated that the Evangelical and Catholic churches "indicated that they were united for the same purpose: the peace of Colombia" while images could be seen from different points of that city. Ayala also informed that "they are asking for an end to the war that is taking place in some regions of Colombia and for peace with the armed groups". Reporter Paula Bernal, from Manizales, said that the march passed through "one of the main avenues of the city, Santander Avenue". She also highlighted that the march has "the purpose of exalting Jesus, the hope of the nation and to free Colombia from spiritual oppression". Pastor Hugo Diaz, president of the March for Jesus Venezuela, was present in Colombia from Caracas with his wife Mariela. They actively participated in the event where freedom and peace were also proclaimed for the sister nation that shares the same colors in its national emblem. "We just finished the March for Jesus Colombia and it was an incredible time" Diaz wrote in a post on his Instagram account, where he announced, "so Venezuela we are preparing for October 12 to march for Jesus Christ and all of Ibero-America will know this year that Jesus Christ is Lord". "God is turning Ibero-America into a revival network for the nations and we witnessed that today from Colombia, thousands and thousands of people worshiping and proclaiming a land for Christ!" stated Diaz. Chinese contractor achieves breakthrough of last tunnel of Nepal's major fast-track package 2 project Xinhua) 10:12, August 06, 2024 Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song addresses the breakthrough ceremony held at the construction site of Nepal's major fast-track package 2 project in Makwanpur district of Nepal, Aug. 5, 2024. The last tunnel was broken through on Monday for the package 2 project contracted by a Chinese company under the Kathmandu-Terai/Madhesh fast track project, which Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli described as an "important milestone" toward achieving Nepal's development goals. (Photo by Hari Maharjan/Xinhua) KATHMANDU, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- The last tunnel was broken through on Monday for the package 2 project contracted by a Chinese company under the Kathmandu-Terai/Madhesh fast track project, which Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli described as an "important milestone" toward achieving Nepal's development goals. After the prime minister pressed the button, the final blast was detonated to break through the last section of the Dhedre left tunnel. "Witnessing the breakthrough of yet another tunnel is a matter of happiness," Oli spoke at the breakthrough ceremony held at the construction site in Makwanpur district. The Dhedre tunnel and the Lanedanda tunnel are part of the package 2 project under the fast track project, which also involves the construction of two large bridges, among others. In May 2021, Poly Changda Engineering Co. Ltd of China signed a contracting agreement with Nepal Army over the package 2 project, which has a total length of 4.62 km. Both tunnels consist of a left and a right tunnel, with Lanedanda's two tunnels completed in May and July, and Dhedre's right tunnel broken through in May. Addressing the breakthrough ceremony, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song spoke of the introduction of advanced automated tunnel construction equipment like three-arms rock drilling jumbo machine and wet spraying robotic arms for the project. "Large-scale mold flipping construction of high-pier bridges in mountainous areas and cantilever casting of traveling formwork and other advanced technologies have been used for the first time in Nepal," he said. Chen voiced hope that under the guidance of the leaders and with unremitting and joint efforts of the governments, private sectors and the people, the pragmatic cooperation between China and Nepal will "continue to achieve new fruits." "This project is an example of model development works in terms of the use of new technologies and technology transfer," Oli said. "We have a vision for a prosperous, developed and poverty-free country. This project is an important milestone toward achieving these goals." After the Kathmandu-Terai/Madhesh expressway project is completed, a two-way and four-lane first-class highway shall link Kathmandu, the capital city, with the Terai plains, the key grain-producing and densely-populated region of Nepal. "This expressway is important not just because it is a national pride project, but also in terms of development, tourism promotion and cultural proximity by lessening the travel time between hills and plains," Oli explained. Prabhu Ram Sharma, chief of the Army Staff, described tunnel construction as among "the most challenging works in the expressway." "I would like to applaud Poly Changda Engineering Company and the consultant firm for attaining a successful breakthrough in the tunnel," he said. Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli addresses the breakthrough ceremony held at the construction site of Nepal's major fast-track package 2 project in Makwanpur district of Nepal, Aug. 5, 2024. The last tunnel was broken through on Monday for the package 2 project contracted by a Chinese company under the Kathmandu-Terai/Madhesh fast track project, which Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli described as an "important milestone" toward achieving Nepal's development goals. (Photo by Hari Maharjan/Xinhua) Participants pose for a group photo at the construction site of Nepal's major fast-track package 2 project in Makwanpur district of Nepal, Aug. 5, 2024. The last tunnel was broken through on Monday for the package 2 project contracted by a Chinese company under the Kathmandu-Terai/Madhesh fast track project, which Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli described as an "important milestone" toward achieving Nepal's development goals. (Photo by Hari Maharjan/Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Unlearn whatever preconceived ideas you have about Aboriginal people and their communities - and sit down with an Aboriginal or other First Nations church leader to spend time listening, absorbing and becoming culturally enlightened. That is the advice for non-indigenous evangelicals given by Sandra Dumas, Senior Pastor of Ganggalah Church and Training Centre with her husband Will, based in Tweed Heads South, Northern Rivers. Her church meets online-only since the COVID-19 pandemic. Dumas is both national chairperson and the New South Wales (NSW) Indigenous Initiative Representative for Australia Christian Churches Indigenous Initiative (ACC Indigenous Initiative). She shared her thoughts in an exclusive interview with Christian Daily International on the evangelistic and pastoral needs of Aborigines, and other First Nations people. The aim of the ACC Indigenous Initiative is to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pastors and leaders, and resource the churches and leaders to connect with Christ as the head, and with the general Christian community, to build the wider Church in Australia. Dumas said it was difficult to calculate exactly how many Aboriginal-led churches existed on the continent. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up This is a tricky question to answer, as we have numerous denominations in our country and Aboriginal-led churches are usually not structured congregations that we would typically see in a town or community and may not even use the word church. In saying that, yes, there are a few, Im guessing approximately 50 around the entire country, but more common is the community-led church which is based in and on an Aboriginal community or reserves/mission, and these churches are led by our Aboriginal elders - our spiritual leaders. Altogether Dumas believes the First Nations church has been growing across Australia: This is a multi-generational blessing in our communities, where we are taught Godly principles over a lifetime that align with our culture and spirituality. Dumas wanted to invite other evangelicals to be open to learning and understanding Aboriginal spirituality. She suggested ways to do that for non-indigenous leaders to go on a pre-arranged country trip to an Aboriginal community for example, or to do cultural awareness training. An Aboriginal Church is not a hierarchical system - but more of a community team effort, where involvement is formed through the collective, Dumas said. Yes, there is eldership, but again this is not a dominant system but is knowledge based. Everyone has a seat at the table, as such respect and contribution are paramount. Dumas pointed out several differences between First Nation churches and other churches and said there was often a clash of cultures. Among the issues and sentiments, she named, non confirmative; different world views; unsafe; don't belong; we don't fit; and not based on attendance (numbers). That is why the ACC Indigenous Initiative seeks to play a key role in uniting the two church cultures in Australia. It was set up a number of years ago as an advisory committee with leaders appointed in each Australian state, to bridge gaps between the church and community. Our role includes raising awareness and creating opportunities for partnerships with Australia's First Nation leaders, pastors and communities; planting first nations-led churches and training and equipping First Nation leaders and pastors, said Dumas. Cultural awareness training, coming alongside the ACC churches and promoting inclusion and understanding, advocacy, promoting First Nations community stories and bringing an understanding of community dynamics, are some of the other ministry initiatives. For Dumas, the challenges facing indigenous churches are very real with Aboriginal spirituality seen as dark or evil by the Church. Dumas noted the cultural differences in identifying and acknowledging an aboriginal elder/community leader versus non-aboriginals leaders receiving acknowledgements after formal studies, such as Bible college. She also said there was a difference between a structured building identified as a church versus a community church. Its a colliding of two systems, the western hierarchical versus the collective, and trying to fit into a structured system. Dumas, however, believes in the power of prayer to bless aboriginal and other First Nation peoples. She shared a list of prayer points for the wider evangelical community to pray for aboriginal churches. Pray for true reconciliation in this nation, and for the curse of generational trauma to be healed, Dumas said. Pray for the churches in our nation to usher in God's healing power through a spirit of reconciliation and repentance. Pray for Godly First Nations leaders to rise in this nation. Prayer is also needed for deep healing from political sabotage and strategies that are ineffective in our communities. Dumas pleaded for the wider church in Australia to call out and lead the way for Aboriginal injustices to be rectified in the nation. Finally, she said, Pray that the church in Australia will commit to raising the next generation of First Nations leaders. Meet Faith Mason, the youngest student to be accepted into Emory Universitys Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at age 17. Now, at 18, shes preparing to begin the program in a few weeks. Mason was born in Annapolis, Maryland, but moved to the U.S. Virgin Islands shortly afterwards. Both her mother and father are from the Virgin Islands, and she aspires to one day go back and pursue a career there in pediatric oncology. Health care on the island is difficult to access, especially for specialties beyond general practice, says Mason. Specialists in areas like cancer or cardiology are less accessible there compared to the continental U.S. Mason and her mother moved back to Maryland before she began school. She completed kindergarten, first and second grade in about a year and a half. They then moved to Georgia and she started third grade at age 6. She says being the youngest in her class didnt really become an issue until high school. It was a little alienating, Mason says. I started high school taking upper level classes; that's when it became a bigger difference. I was 12 years old on my first day of high school and in classes with juniors and seniors who were 17 and 18. It wasn't an issue with the other students, but more of an issue of finding others I could relate to. In high school, Mason was salutatorian and was nominated for shining senior recognition in the local newspaper. She was also part of QuestBridge, a program for high achieving low-income students to get connected with colleges such as Emory University. She became a student at Emory in fall 2022, following the pre-med track. Shes already had the opportunity to take some classes related to nursing, which gives her more reasons to be excited about the program. Up until this point, all my nursing professors have been Black women, Mason says. Its nice to see people who look like me in impactful positions in the nursing school. Its very motivating, very enriching to see that. Her biggest role model throughout everything has been her mom Mecca Mason, who Mason says has been her biggest supporter and advocate. My mom was a single mother, and when we moved to the States, it was just her supporting us, Mason says. When I was younger, whatever issue there could have been with money, I never saw that because she would always tell me my job was to listen and learn. Mason did listen and learn. Those skills have helped her thrive academically, yet she is most proud of her independence. I dont like being defined only by academics, she says. I think theres so many more dimensions to life that are more worthy to recount. One of those other dimensions Mason has enjoyed during her time at Emory has been finding needed connections within the Black academic community. She is one of the programming chairs for the Black Student Alliance, the press publicity chair for the NAACP Emory chapter, and recently joined Zeta Phi Beta, a Divine 9 organization. Building connections will continue as she begins her nursing school classes. She views nursing school as a way to learn about that side of health care and is already studying for the MCAT. Her goal is to go straight to medical school after graduating from Emory. I did what I had to do to get myself to this point, to where I'm not extremely stressed out, and Im not picking a major or completely changing career paths or things like that other students may be facing, she says. So right now, I like to enjoy the beauty in every day. PRNewswire Washington [US], August 6: The White House announced a pledge from EC-Council, a cybersecurity certification, education, training, and services organization, to accelerate skill development in the nation's cyber workforce. Renowned as the creator of the Certified Ethical Hacker credential, EC-Council announced a $15 million pledge to reach over 50,000 students and advance academic institutions with 8 turnkey, hands-on programs to build critical cybersecurity skills across the Ethical Hacking, Network Defense, Digital Forensics, Threat Intelligence, Security Operations, IoT Security, DevSecOps, and Cloud Security domains through the White House's Office of the National Cyber Director (ONCD). The pledge comes at a time when the need to close the cyber skills gap has become more critical than ever, with some estimates predicting a worldwide shortfall of 3.5 million cybersecurity professionals by 2025. In response to the ongoing trend, EC-Council's initiative will provide scholarships offering access to an extensive cybersecurity curriculum and instructional videos to academic institutions in the United States including universities, National Security Agency's (NSA) Centers of Academic Excellence (CAEs), community colleges, career schools, high schools, and non-profit organizations. Through these scholarships, EC-Council will help accelerate skill development nationwide and usher in a new cyber workforce. "We are honored to announce this pledge in partnership with the Office of the National Cyber Director and Director Coker," said Jay Bavisi, Group President of EC-Council. "Our mission to democratize cybersecurity education and build the cyber workforce of the future is unwavering. This pledge will enhance accessibility to cybersecurity careers through the academic community and train the next generation of ethical hackers, which is crucial for safeguarding against cyber threats." EC-Council supports over 800 Institutions of Higher Education in North America alone, with turnkey cyber programs enabling cybersecurity skill development at scale with the highest in-demand skills employers seek to reduce the threat surface, lower breach costs and probability, and better defend our nation and economy. Over half of the nation's CAEs are supported by EC-Council through its high-quality certification programs, learning resources, cyber ranges, and cyber competitions, creating highly skilled, employable graduates across the nation. National Cyber Director Harry Coker Jr. of the Executive Office of the President said, "Today, I am excited to announce that EC-Council, a cybersecurity technical certification body, has pledged $15 million in scholarships to reach over 50,000 students, supporting them in earning new industry credentials and participating in growing their cybersecurity skills through hands-on programs." Those interested in learning more about the commitment to the ONCD should visit the commitments page of its website here: White House Pledge Academic community members can find additional information on the EC-Council website here: White House Cybersecurity Scholarship ABOUT EC-COUNCIL: EC-Council invented the Certified Ethical Hacker. Founded in 2001 in response to 9/11, EC-Council's mission is to provide the training and certifications that apprentice and experienced cybersecurity professionals need to keep corporations, government agencies, and others who employ them safe from attack. Best known for its Certified Ethical Hacker program, EC-Council today offers 200 different training programs, certificates, and degrees in everything from Computer Forensic Investigation and Security Analysis to Threat Intelligence and Information Security. An ISO/IEC 17024 Accredited Organization recognized under the U.S. Defense Department Directive 8140/8570 and many other authoritative cybersecurity bodies worldwide, EC-Council has certified over 350,000 professionals across the globe. EC-Council is the gold standard in cybersecurity education and certification, trusted by seven of the Fortune 10, half of the Fortune 100, and the intelligence communities of 150 nations. A truly global organization with a driving belief in bringing diversity, equity, and inclusion to the modern cybersecurity workforce, EC-Council maintains 11 offices in the US, the UK, India, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. The company can be reached online at https://www.eccouncil.org/ Press Contact: press@eccouncil.org Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2475349/EC_Council_Pledge.jpgLogo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2373437/EC_Council_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PRNewswire Plantation (Florida) [US], August 6: Everise has been named winner in several categories in the annual Stevie Awards for Great Employers, which recognize the world's best employers and teams who help to create and drive great places to work. Everise was awarded with Gold and Silver wins in multiple categories, as follows: * Gold Stevie Winner for Achievement in Diversity and Inclusion* Gold Stevie Winner for Achievement in Employee Engagement* Gold Stevie Winner for People-Focused CEO of the Year (Sudhir Agarwal, Founder & CEO)* Gold Stevie Winner for Chief Human Resources Officer of the Year (Sheena Ponnappan, Chief People Officer)* Silver Stevie Winner for Employer of the Year* Silver Stevie Winner for Best CSR Strategy Over 1,000 nominations from organizations of all sizes in 35 nations and territories were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of categories. Over 100 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this year's honorees. Winners in the Employer of the Year categories were determined by a blend of ratings from professional judges and more than 34,000 public votes. Winners will be recognized during a gala dinner on Monday, September 16 2024, in New York City. "I am profoundly honored and humbled by our recognition at the Stevie Awards for Great Employers. This year stands out as our most triumphant yet. These awards are a testament to our relentless dedication to putting our people-first culture at the heart of our business. My heartfelt congratulations and gratitude must go to our incredible team for putting our people first in all we do," shared Sudhir Agarwal, Founder and CEO, Everise, and 2024 Gold Stevie Winner for People-Focused CEO of the Year. "We are immensely proud of our achievements and these prestigious accolades from the Stevie Awards for Great Employers. They recognize Everise's unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive culture, engaging our employees, and prioritizing our people. Our success is driven by our team's dedication and the visionary leadership of our Founder & CEO. Together, we continue to create an environment where everyone can thrive," shared Sheena Ponnappan, Chief People Officer, Everise, and 2024 Gold Stevie Winner for Chief Human Resources Officer of the Year. "We congratulate all of the winners in the ninth edition of the Stevie Awards for Great Employers for their outstanding performance, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements on September 16," said Maggie Miller, President, Stevies. About Everise Founded in 2016, Everise is a global leader transforming customer service for healthcare, transport, logistics, insurance, financial services, and tech businesses. Backed by Brookfield and Warburg Pincus, the company solves problems for the millions of customers of some of the world's leading brands, by combining the best technology with compassionate service. With 20,000 champion agents operating across eight strategic markets globally, Everise seeks to deliver happiness to customers of some of the world's best loved brands. Our customer service solutions are high-performing, secure, and agile, with fluent proficiency in 32 languages, enabling businesses to scale globally while achieving top customer satisfaction. Learn more at www.weareeverise.com. About the Stevie Awards Stevie Awards are conferred in nine programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, the Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PRNewswire Pune (Maharashtra) [India], August 6: Young Chef Young Waiter and Young Mixologist India Finals were held at the iconic Taj Lands End Hotel in Mumbai. The winners of the competition were announced during a special awards dinner hosted by Ajeenkya DY Patil University on the 29th July, 2024. The inaugural edition of the YYY India received an overwhelming response from the young generation of Hospitality sector professionals, across India. The winners of the Young Chef Young Waiter and Young Mixologist India competition are: Winners are:Chef Category - Labdhi Chheda, The Corinthians Resort and Club, PuneWaiter Category - Paresh Singh, M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, BangaloreMixologist Category - Rebeca Peter Dias, Taj Lands End Hotel, Mumbai Runners-up are:Chef Category Nimit Chouhan, Hyatt Regency DelhiWaiter Category Pragati Shaw, The Park Hotel, KolkataMixologist Category Yash Dangle, Mag St., Mumbai Congratulations to all the contestants who competed in the 2024 YYY India finals. Their achievements not only brought glory to their country but also provided a unique opportunity to connect with and learn from talented individuals in the hospitality industry. Throughout the competition, the chefs, waiters and mixologists navigated through various challenging tasks. The winners of India finals will compete at the WorldYYY in Singapore in November 2024. The winning World Champions of 2024 will appear at Formula 1 races. The doyens for the hospitality sector contributed as the judges for the competition. The esteemed judges were Chef Aabhas Mehrotra, Executive Chef & Partner, Damati Foods; Chef Jay Kantawala, Owner, Gourmet Kitchen & Studio; Chef Gautam Mehrishi, Corporate Executive Chef, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd; Chef Rohit Sangwan, Area Director Culinary - West & Executive Chef, Taj Lands End; Jacob Alexander, Founder, Liquid A' La Carte; Siddhant Hule, Brand Ambassador, Himmaleh Spirits; Archita Gupta, Assistant Director of Food & Beverage, Taj Lands End and Andy Downton, Competition Director, WorldYYY. The esteemed partners The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Association of India and National Restaurant Association of India generously supported the competition. Quotations from Dignitaries: Mr Harjinder Kang, British Deputy High Commissioner for Western India & His Majesty's Trade Commissioner for South Asia said, "India and UK are linked phenomenally in terms of cuisine and hospitality, there are 10,000 Indian restaurants in UK, contributing significantly to the GDP of the country." Dr. Robert Walton MBE, Chairman of WorldYYY said, "I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Ajeenkya DY Patil University for bringing the Young Chef Young Waiter and Young Mixologist competition to India. Additionally, a huge thank you to all the sponsors and partners who have supported this competition. India, with its high-end hotels and resorts catering to international tourists and business travellers, makes it a fantastic country to see represented in the YYY competition. The WorldYYY competition invests in the future stars of hospitality, and we are eager to see this platform become a catalyst for identifying young talent in India. All the Indian finalists performed exceptionally well, and I look forward to seeing India represented in the 2024 world finals in Singapore." Dr. Taruna Maheshwari, Chief Executive Officer, Ajeenkya DY Patil University mentioned, "By providing a global platform for young talent, we hope to spotlight Indian culinary arts and service excellence while inspiring wider interest in this industry. The hospitality industry is a major employer in India, it encompasses a wide range of establishments, including hotels, restaurants, travel and tourism services, and more. The Indian hotel market is projected to grow upto $ 16.8 billion by 2025. The Indian government's schemes like 'Swadesh Darshan' and 'Atithi Devo Bhava' aim to boost tourism and enhance the overall guest experience." About WYCY Since its establishment in 1979, the Young Chef Young Waiter competition has continued to promote hospitality as a career of choice, a profession, and a vocation. Today, with its new revitalized format Young Chef Young Waiter continues to honour the next culinary and service stars globally. World Young Chef Young Waiter, in partnership with Great Campaign UK and Northern Ireland and Culinary Institute of America, mission to discover the best young talents in the industry. The Young Mixologist competition started in 2022 in Monaco celebrating the extraordinary young talent who push the boundaries of mixology and elevate cocktail-making to new heights. Notes to editors: The World Young Chef Young Waiter India License Holder is Ajeenkya DY Patil University. The World Young Chef Young Waiter competition, established in 1979 in partnership with UKHospitality and the Restaurant Association. The competition promotes hospitality as a career of choice, a profession, and an avocation. The competition is open to all young chefs and waiters from any background under the age of 28. For enquiries, images, & interview requests please contact kareena@ycywawards.com Follow Young Chef Young Waiter on social media:Twitter @worldycyw @YCYWMumbai|Instagram @worldycyw@ycyw_india| Facebook youngchefyoungwaiter youngchefyoungwaiter.com/india LinkedIn YCYW YCYW India | YouTube YCYWWebsite-youngchefyoungwaiter.com The GREAT Britain & Northern Ireland campaign is a programme to drive economic growth across the nation by encouraging an international audience to visit, study and do business with the UK. It was set up in 2011 and promotes the best of the UK in 164 countries around the world, consistently generating a strong return on investment averaging 15.1.@greatbritain (Twitter) @greatcampaign (Instagram) About Ajeenkya DY Patil University Ajeenkya DY Patil University (ADYPU), known for its strong emphasis on innovation, is a renowned hub for young learners with entrepreneurial aspirations. We provide an ideal environment for young learners and aspiring entrepreneurs to develop skills for the ever-evolving world and nurture the growth of your startup ventures. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2475358/Winners_Runners_Up_ADYPU.jpgPhoto: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2475357/Judges_Guests_ADYPU.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) BusinessWire India Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 6: CFA Society India successfully concluded the 9th edition of India Wealth Management Conference (IWMC) in Mumbai on August 02, 2024. This flagship wealth management conference attracts leading wealth advisors, investment specialists, and other thought leaders who offer insights and deliberations around the opportunities, risks, and portfolio solutions for professional wealth managers in India in an evolving financial landscape. The 9th IWMC focused on domestic and global wealth management trends as investors focus on long-term sustainable growth, personalization at scale, and diversification at a time when India presents opportunities as the fastest-growing major economy and when artificial intelligence and technology are expected to witness a deeper integration into wealth management practices. The conference started with an address by Shamit Chokshi, CFA, Director, CFA Society India, Principal - Offshore Fund Investments, International Business at ICICI Prudential AMC, wherein, he recognized India as a standalone asset class and added that the role of wealth managers and investment advisors are extending beyond the traditional investment planning and financial management. He touched upon the trend in wealth managers setting up their respective practices with a long-term focus as individuals, NRIs, and family offices seek financial planning extending over two to three decades. "It is the core mission of CFA Institute to lead the investment management profession by establishing the highest standards for education, excellence, and ethics," said Arati Porwal - Country Head - India, CFA Institute who delivered the conference opening remarks by reiterating the role of CFA charterholders as guardians of the various financial dreams of their clients. She emphasized on the importance of upskilling, building competencies, and being future-ready. During the session 'Global Wealth: Money in Motion', Daniel Farley, Chief Investment Officer, Investment Solutions Group, Executive Vice President - State Street Global Advisors discussed the fundamental shift driven by technology that is being witnessed in the global wealth management industry that is otherwise a century old. He spoke at length about the role of digital tools and data analytics in creating personalized and efficient client experiences. Daniel noted the expected rise in the number of millionaires and emphasized a holistic approach to wealth planning by focusing on the overall objectives of the client rather than simply looking for winning ideas. He called it 'prioritizing Investor Alpha over Investment Alpha'. The next session on 'Wealth Management: The Road Ahead' by Umang Papneja, Managing Director & CEO, Julius Baer India, started with an overview of Indian GDP growth over the past two decades and the exponential rise of wealth assets in India in the process. He spoke about the opportunities for wealth managers in India for the years ahead of us. He highlighted the importance of educating wealth managers as well as the new generation of investors inheriting inter-generational wealth, also noting that the lookout for talent in the wealth industry needs to be across India. He projects equities to become a larger part of asset allocation in the next decade supported by initiatives by the Government of India and the favorable taxation equity instruments enjoy relative to other asset classes. Satish Ananthaswamy, CFA, Senior Managing Director, UC Investments, Head of Asia, Co-Head of Real Estate & Co-Head of Asset Allocation, led the next session on 'The Story of UC Investments'. He spoke at length about the investment strategy of the USD 180 billion financial portfolio of the University of California as the university pursues multiple objectives including endowment, pensions, and student research. He spoke about the importance of organizational culture in managing investments at UC while taking the participants through the journey of the UC investment portfolio and shifting asset allocation across decades. The specialist session 'Behavioral Investing' by Nimesh Chandan, Chief Investment Officer at Bajaj Finserv Asset Management, was a full-fledged discourse on multiple behavioral aspects of investors and the importance of being aware of the biases and addressing the same by having a proper process and networking with the right set of people in approaching investment decisions. The specialist session on 'Wealth Management: Talent Landscape' had Navin Upadhyaya, Chief Human Resources Officer, 360 ONE, address the myth that wealth management is just about sales. Navin discussed different opportunities for value addition across areas such as product development and portfolio management, along with functions such as taxation, finance, and US GAAP. The session on 'How to Build and Manage Wealth over Generations' had Hemendra Kothari, Non-Executive Chairman, DSP Asset Managers, take the audience through his personal journey as he built businesses and collaborated with various global institutions for growing the same. He touched upon the importance of building two-way trusts while building partnerships and fostering a constant give and take as an effective mechanism for resolving conflicts. The audience also had the opportunity to learn about his contributions to the field of wildlife conservation. Bijal Ajinkya, Partner at Khaitan & Co., led the session on 'Succession Planning: The Why, The How, and The What' where she covered in greater detail the multiple facets concerning succession planning when it comes to passing on personal assets and businesses to the next generation. Especially for businesses, she highlighted the importance of leadership succession and management succession. In the later part of the session, she also spoke about various operational nuances of succession plans. The last session on 'AI in Wealth Management' was led by Vikram Srinivasan, CEO and Co-Founder at Needl.ai. While discussing the role of AI in financial practices, he spoke about the importance of exercising care when implementing AI in the organization and having the right mentors to navigate such implementation. He reiterated the role of artificial intelligence in augmenting human capacity. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PRNewswire Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], August 6: ISRO-NRSC and IIIT Hyderabad organized an AI for Space Immersion Program for startup and student-research teams from across the country. This day-long event brought together a dynamic community of startups, students, researchers, and industry experts, to foster innovation and explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in the space sector. Ideas were reviewed by the scientists and guidance was given to refine and improve the ideas, CIE-IIIT Hyderabad and ISRO, with support from IN-SPACe, organized this innovation event to seed interesting new ideas and solutions for space. Through interactive ideation sessions, mentorship from ISRO scientists, interaction with IIITH faculty, pitch workshops, and inspiring talks, the participants had the opportunity to validate their ideas and connect with potential mentors and investors. The speakers at the inaugural and finale included Anand Rajagopalan of TM2Space, Naga Bharath of Skyroot, Vinod Bothala (Outstanding Scientist) of ISRO, Vijaya Bhanu (Director PD) of IN-SPACe, KV Ramana (Dep Director) of NRSC-ISRO, and P J Narayanan (Director) of IIITH. The ISRO Immersion Challenge witnessed robust participation, with 177 applications received. Of these, 74 teams were invited for the immersion. The final 6 ideas included Green Propulsion for Satellites Delivery, AI-Powered Precision Rocket Control, Autonomous Swarm for Space Debris Cleanup, Precision Agriculture through crop surveys for accurate agricultural insights, and Democratizing Geospatial Data through a chat interface. The final winners were Expanse Cosmos (a startup based in Delhi) and Team Trishul (student team from Chandigarh). Prof CV Jawahar, Dean at IIIT Hyderabad, said, "CIE at IIITH is an initiative to nurture innovations and startups based on support from research. We are very happy that ISRO and IIITH enabled this convergence of scientists, faculty, research students, startups and space enthusiasts to collectively come up with very interesting deep tech-based solutions for space." About CIE IIIT Hyderabad CIE at IIIT Hyderabad is a technology incubator, with 16 years of rich experience in seeding, nurturing and growing DeepTech, MedTech, Mobility and MediaTech. CIE IIITH, with research-led innovation as its primary mandate, focuses on amplifying technology and IP by creating research collaboration and co-creation models for startups to work with research groups at IIITH. CIE has been an ecosystem enabler, fostering communities that create and scale emerging technology solutions, innovations and startups. About IIIT Hyderabad The International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIITH) is an autonomous research university founded in 1998 that focuses on the core areas of Information Technology, such as Computer Science, Electronics and Communications, and their applications in other domains through inter-disciplinary research that has a greater social impact. Some of its research domains include Visual Information Technologies, Human Language Technologies, Data Engineering, VLSI and Embedded Systems, Computer Architecture, Wireless Communications, Algorithms and Information Security, Robotics, Building Science, Earthquake Engineering, Computational Natural Sciences and Bioinformatics, Education Technologies, Power Systems, IT in Agriculture and e-Governance. Website: www.iiit.ac.in Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1900509/IIITH_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PRNewswire Hong Kong/ Bangalore (Karnataka) [India], August 6: EcoMatcher Limited, a leading provider of digital tree-planting technology solutions, and VNV Advisory Services, an authority in sustainable development and climate action, are thrilled to announce a strategic partnership. This collaboration aims to offer customers unique tree-planting projects branded as TREES+, where each tree can be tracked and managed through the EcoMatcher platform. Every project will carry official carbon certification from Verra or Gold Standard, ensuring the highest standards of environmental impact and credibility. Through this partnership, EcoMatcher and VNV will enable businesses to engage in impactful reforestation efforts. By leveraging EcoMatcher's state-of-the-art platform, customers will be able to integrate tree planting into their business while also offsetting their environmental footprint through verified and validated emission removals. The platform provides detailed information about each tree, including its species, planting date, and geolocation. All TREES+ projects under this collaboration, starting in Egypt, India, Indonesia, and Madagascar, will be officially certified by either Verra or Gold Standard, two of the most respected carbon accreditation standards globally. These certifications guarantee that the carbon sequestration from the tree-planting projects meet stringent international standards, providing verifiable and measurable climate benefits that can be used towards offsetting plans. Both EcoMatcher and VNV share a deep commitment to promoting sustainable development and fighting climate change. By joining forces, they aim to scale up reforestation efforts, restore ecosystems, and support local communities. This partnership is a testament to their dedication to creating a greener and more sustainable future. "Our partnership with VNV, a global leader in carbon credit projects, marks a significant milestone in our mission to make tree planting transparent and impactful," said Bas Fransen, CEO of EcoMatcher. "By ensuring that the projects are certified by Verra or Gold Standard, our customers can use these projects in their business and for their carbon offset strategies." Sandeep Roy Choudhury, CEO of VNV, added, "We are thrilled to partner with EcoMatcher, a global leader in tree technologies. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our goal to drive meaningful climate action and sustainable development. Together, we can offer projects that benefit the environment and the communities involved and bring further value to our customers." About EcoMatcher Limited EcoMatcher plants trees and complete forests with vetted foundations from around the world, specializing in reforestation and conservation projects. Through EcoMatcher's digital platform, customers can track, manage, and engage with their trees and forests, making tree planting transparent, fun, and impactful. About VNV Advisory Services VNV Advisory is a leading organization dedicated to promoting sustainable development through climate action, nature-based removals, and community-driven projects. To date, VNV has issued more than 20 million verified emission reductions across more than 100 projects. With extensive expertise in carbon certification and project management, VNV Advisory Services ensures that all its initiatives meet the highest standards of environmental and social impact. Contact Information For EcoMatcher:- Bas Fransen- bas@ecomatcher.com For VNV:- Sandeep Roy Choudbury- contact@vnvadvisory.net (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) New Delhi [India], August 6: Renowned media company Vision Media Pvt. Ltd. has been awarded the title of Best Digital Marketing and Media Company of the Year. A special ceremony was held at Hotel Indana Palace in Jaipur, attended by numerous companies from the business world. Following the business summit, distinguished groups excelling in commerce and media were honored for their exceptional performance at the PAN India level. The director of Vision Media Pvt. Ltd., Adityaraj Sharma, received the award from film actress Esha Deol. Adityaraj Sharma stated that the company adopts a creative & holistic approach to provide innovative digital marketing, graphic designing, web, and video services. As a result, major brands from different parts of the country are associated with the company, trusting in its capabilities. Vision Media is set to work on several new projects for its clients in the coming time. He expressed gratitude to the organizers for the award. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Amid the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh, the trade between India and Bangladesh, which has been strong for years, is facing challenges. Both countries have been a ddddddddddddddddmajor trading partners, engaging in a wide exchange of goods and services. In FY 2023-24, the total trade between India and Bangladesh was Rs 1,35,285 crore, with India holding a significant trade surplus. "India has a strategic interest in a stable and strong Bangladesh, supporting its economic stability and hoping for peace in the region. As Bangladesh experiences political turmoil, it is essential for all its political factions to protect garment and other factories and keep supply lines open across the border to sustain trade and economic activity," said Ajay Srivastava, founder of the Global Trade Research Initiative. According to the Ministry of Commerce, India exported goods worth Rs 91,614 crore to Bangladesh during this period, while it imported goods worth Rs 15,268 crore from Bangladesh. This resulted in a trade surplus in favor of India of Rs 76,346 crore. The data highlights Bangladesh's role as a crucial trading partner for India, and any disruptions will impact the economies of both countries. India's exports to Bangladesh include a diverse range of products, such as cotton yarn, petroleum products, oil meals, spices, and auto components. The current political unrest in Bangladesh threatens these exports, particularly impacting the cotton yarn sector. Indian cotton farmers could be affected if trade disruptions occur. If exports decrease, it could lead to an oversupply of cotton in India, which may lower prices and hurt farmers' incomes. On the other hand, India imports several essential commodities from Bangladesh, including ready-made garments (RMG) made of cotton, aircraft and spacecraft parts, jute, leather footwear, and marine products. The RMG sector is especially important, as Bangladesh is a major global exporter of these garments. Any interruption in the supply of these goods could affect India's textile and garment industries, which depend on these imports for production. Moreover, the Indian aerospace sector, which imports specialized parts from Bangladesh, could also face supply chain issues. "India's exports, such as wheat, rice, lentils, onions, spices, sugar, oil cake, and electricity, are crucial for the people. Any disruption in supplies will lead to a massive price rise in Bangladesh and inconvenience to people," added Srivastava. The ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh not only disrupts current trade activities but also creates uncertainty about future economic cooperation between the two countries. Given Bangladesh's importance as a trading partner, continued instability could lead to a prolonged reduction in trade volumes. If the situation persists in the long run, it might force Indian businesses to seek alternative markets or suppliers, which could be challenging. The current scenario highlights the importance of political stability for maintaining strong economic ties and the potential consequences when such stability is lacking. (ANI) Pune (Maharashtra) [India], August 6: On a warm Saturday afternoon, the International Youth Development Foundation (IYDF) and the socially-minded enterprise Chocolate Tree Cake Shop teamed up to host a heartfelt and loving event, providing essential humanitarian aid to underprivileged children in Pune. This event, held at Matruchaya Anathaashram Dighi Pune, was warmly welcomed by 30 children. Organized by Sanjog Vishwas Barge, the volunteer team included Abhishek Jadhav, Ashraf, Komal, and Satish. Together, they worked diligently to prepare a series of meaningful activities for the children. At the event, the volunteers distributed educational materials, food preparation supplies, snacks, and housekeeping items. They also shared captivating stories and engaged in games with the children, creating a joyful and memorable afternoon. Sanjog Vishwas Barge, the event organizer, expressed his joy: "Seeing the smiles and happiness on the children's faces brings me immense joy and fulfillment. It's a pleasure to be part of something that brings so much joy to these young hearts." Annan Gate, the head of the beneficiary institution, praised the event, expressing gratitude for the generous support from IYDF and Chocolate Tree Cake Shop Pune. The success of this event highlighted the community's commitment to caring for and supporting underprivileged children. Through this event, IYDF and Chocolate Tree Cake Shop Pune not only provided much-needed assistance to the children but also fostered greater community cooperation and engagement. Looking ahead, both organizations plan to continue their collaboration, driving more charitable activities to bring hope and warmth to those in need. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], August 6: On a warm summer evening, the International Youth Development Foundation (IYDF) joined forces with Smartfusion Corporate Solutions Pvt Ltd. to host a special charity event. The event, held in Perambur, Chennai, aimed to provide much-needed support and care to 43 underprivileged children. Zeenath Aalima graciously received the attendees at the event. The atmosphere at the event was filled with warmth and compassion. The volunteer team, led by Faseela Begum, included A. R. Riyaz Ahamed, R. Rifaz Ahamed, R. Rifza Afsheen, Dowlath S., Musheena N., Shafiya N., Sharmila Banu Y., Sulthaniya M., Jannathul Isthabarak P., Haroon A., Sumaiya Y., and Banu M. They provided the children with carefully prepared supplies, including books, educational kits, and fresh fruits. During the event, volunteers engaged in heartfelt conversations with the children, discussing their needs and future plans. The children expressed their gratitude through special prayers, blessing the organizers and their families. To ensure everyone's comfort, tea and fruit snacks were available for all participants and volunteers. Faseela Begum shared her feelings about the event: "Seeing the children's joy when they received the books was incredibly fulfilling. Their list of needs made me realize the importance of our continued efforts to provide them with more support. I am also delighted that my family and I could share this happiness with these children." This initiative not only provided essential supplies to underprivileged children but also strengthened community bonds through volunteer interactions. The collaboration between IYDF and Smartfusion Corporate Solutions Pvt Ltd. positively impacted the children's education and lives, demonstrating the broader community's commitment to supporting those in need. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PNN London [UK], August 6: AsiaOne Media Group successfully organised the 23rd Edition of the World Sustainability Round Table Meet, on Thursday, 1st August at the Copthorne Tara Millennium Hotel, Kensington, London. A hallmark event that took place in the historically alluring city of London, United Kingdom, was an engaging one-day affair. This prestigious gathering served as a nexus for collaboration, recognition, and celebration across the spheres of business, diplomacy, and social impact, transcending borders and fostering meaningful connections. The Forum was graced by the esteemed presence of Member of Parliament, Shockat Adam and diplomats comprising Ambassadors, Deputy Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and Consuls from the countries of Bahrain, Bangladesh, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Honduras, The Gambia, Grenada, Kyrgyz Republic, Costa Rica, Jordan and Kazakhstan. The Forum also saw the esteemed presence of Chancellors, Deans, Directors, Heads of the Departments and Professors from renowned educational institutions of the United Kingdom namely the University of Oxford, London South Bank University, Brunel University London and Imperial College London. These dignitaries exemplified the Forum's global reach and significance, reaffirming the importance of cross-cultural dialogue and cooperation in today's interconnected world. AsiaOne, a trailblazing force in the realm of international summits and B2B publications, has been instrumental in bridging the gap between Asian brands and global recognition. Under the quintessential leadership of Rajat Raj Shukal, Global Head & Principal Partner - AsiaOne Media Group, AsiaOne has emerged as a beacon of excellence, empowering businesses and thought leaders to realise their full potential on the global stage. With a commitment to fostering dialogue, innovation, and collaboration, AsiaOne has continued to redefine the landscape of business and social engagement. Sandeep Kumar, CEO and Publisher, AsiaOne Magazine started the event with his keynote speech, "We, at AsiaOne, are exhilarated to host this event in the very heart of London as this illustrious global metropolis stands as the definitive bastion of opulence and innovation. Today, the forum will witness the Biography launch of Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese; we surely believe that his life journey will inspire umpteen aspiring entrepreneurs and others to rise and shine in their chosen spheres. Further, we are looking forward to recognizing the significant progress accomplished by those business houses who are contributing towards a more just and sustainable world through AsiaOne World Sustainability Commitment Awards." Keynote Speech by Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, in his keynote speech, talked about his inspirational journey of ascend to the pinnacle of success in the educational sector. He mesmerized the audience by reflecting on his gripping saga from a young mischievous boy to a man driven by passion, purpose, and perseverance. He asserted, "This transformation has been nothing short of extraordinary, and I am excited to share this journey with you all. Let us celebrate not just my story, but the boundless potential within each of us to rise, grow, and inspire." He exuded emotions of joy, pride, and gratitude as he talked about his impressive journey, from being an introvert boy hailing from a small town in Kerala to becoming a renowned educational leader. He expressed gratitude towards his late father, Dr. KCG Verghese, who laid the foundation of the Hindustan Group of Institutions with the motto, "To make every man a success and no man a failure." Having inherited his visionary zeal and passion for education, Dr. Anand has been consistently working towards making education accessible to all young minds. With a firm belief that 'Education is the movement from darkness to light,' Dr. Anand emphasized upon his aim of providing quality education and creating future leaders who will eventually make a positive impact on society. He thanked his dedicated team of faculty and staff who have been working tirelessly to make this possible. He also thanked the students and parents for their trust and faith in the Hindustan Group of Institutions. With a hope that his biography will be an inspiration for each and every reader, he urged the audience to dream big, work hard, and never give up on their dreams. He was of the view that every goal was achievable with determination, perseverance, and a positive attitude. He concluded with a quote "Every journey, whether on road or in life, teaches us something new, it's about people we meet, experiences we share and the lessons we learn." He exuded gratitude when he stated that he cherished every moment of his journey and extended his best wishes to everyone present at the Forum. Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese's Biography Launch Amidst the array of distinguished events at the forum, the most prominent one was the unveiling of the biography of Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, the Chairman of the Hindustan Group of Institutions. Dr. Anand, a visionary leader whose contributions to education and innovation have been applauded globally, was celebrated at the Forum. His biography launch received a thunderous applause from the audience, who acknowledged his role as a beacon of inspiration and leadership. The Hindustan Group of Institutions: Knowledge Partner One of the top institutions in India, the Hindustan Group of Institutions, comprises a diverse array of colleges and universities that offer cutting-edge education in engineering, aviation, liberal arts, and more. With a commitment to fostering holistic development, the group emphasizes not only academic excellence but also the cultivation of ethical values and global competencies. Dr. Anand's pioneering efforts in integrating advanced technology, industry collaborations, and a student-centric approach have propelled the Hindustan Group to the forefront of educational excellence. Roundtable Discussion on Sustainability Some of the esteemed sustainability leaders dwelled upon the ways towards achieving a sustainable future through the Round Table Discussion on Sustainability. This discussion brought forth sustainable solutions from businesses and individuals dedicated to forging a sustainable future. Some of the award winners at the forum are: Samir Krishan Modi, Managing Director, Modi Enterprises, Harish Kohli, President & Managing Director, Acer India, Dr. Arshi Ayub Mohamed, Senior Advisor, Private office of HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, UAE Royal Family; and CEO, Trust With Trade Group, Yashpal Singh Yadav, Managing Director of Anya Polytech & Fertilizers Ltd, Sanjib Acharya, Managing Director, SERUM Group, Dr. Basant Goel, Chairman, Goel Medicos & Mission Sarvarth Seva Foundation, Dr. Asmita Jagtap, Executive Director, Bharati Vidyapeeth Health Sciences, Aditya Vikram Birla, Chairman and Managing Director, Cosmic Birla Group, Ashok Kumar Todi, Chairman, Lux Industries Ltd, Sanjay Gupta, Chairman & Managing Director, APL Apollo Tubes Ltd., Maninder Singh, CEO, Manzeera Solutions, Jaikrishan Jajoo, Chairman, Shubhashish Group, Dr. Mohammad Salem Omaid, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, iBnk, Dubai, Kunal Yadav, Chairman & Managing Director, Yadu Corporation, Prince Raj, CEO, EKTA CONTECH, for DRONAGIRI, Ashish Aggarwal, Director & CEO, ANDDCO, Saravanan Palaniappan, MD, Relaxaa Home Textiles Pvt. Ltd., etc. AsiaOne AsiaOne is an international media house and the only Business & News magazine, with presence in more than 16 countries of Asia, Americas, Europe and Africa. AsiaOne Media has pioneered the research-based listing of Brands & Leaders and supplements its listings with National & International Business & Social Summits and Awards function. It has been offering Indian, Asian and African brands & leaders with higher visibility through its several prestigious mediums including Magazine, Coffee Table Book, Television Broadcast, various websites, Android and iOS Apps. "AsiaOne Greatest Brands & Leaders - Asia, Americas, Europe, Africa": The Most Broadcasted TV Series in the World - Reaching to 41 countries with a B2B viewership of over 56 million. To learn more about the event, research and the greatest brands and leaders, visit www.theworldsgreatestbrands.com, www.theasiasgreatestbrands.com, www.theindiasgreatestbrands.com, www.asiaone.co.in, and www.asiaone.me or call us at +91-011-43281161-66 or write to us at global@asiaone.co.in, dubai@asiaone.co.in, and singapore@asiaone.co.in (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) The Union Minister of Labour, and Employment Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, on Tuesday, directed the expeditious implementation of the Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme announced in Union Budget 2024-25 in a mission mode. The Union Minister reviewed the ELI Scheme and its implementation plans. Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Shobha Karandlaje and senior officials of the Ministry and EPFO were also present in the meeting. Mandaviya emphasized the importance of a robust mechanism to ensure that the benefits of the ELI Scheme reach the true beneficiaries. "It is imperative that our efforts are directed towards creating a sustainable and inclusive employment ecosystem. The ELI Scheme is designed to facilitate job creation, and provide incentives to employers and employees," Union Minister stated. As part of Union Budget announcements made by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on July 23, ELI Schemes are designed to recognise first-time employees and provide comprehensive support to both employees and employers. As per the announcements, a central outlay of Rs 2 lakh crore was allocated as part of the prime minister's package for five key schemes and initiatives that the government will initiate over the next five years. The package will facilitate employment, skilling, and other opportunities for over 4.1 crore youths. The initiatives include employment-linked incentives, besides enhancing skilling, women's workforce participation, and support for MSMEs in creating jobs. The initiatives will also include strengthening capital infrastructure. Three of these five schemes will be implemented through the Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), by incentivizing both employers and employees. These Employment-Linked Incentive Schemes are designed to recognize first-time employees and provide comprehensive support to both employees and employers. The first scheme will target first-time employees in the formal sector who are registered with EPFO. This scheme offers a one-month wage (up to Rs. 15,000) in three instalments. The second scheme will focus on job creation in the manufacturing sector, this scheme will incentivize both employees and employers for additional first-time employees. The scheme will offer benefits based on their EPFO contributions during the first four years of employment. Employees with salaries up to Rs. 1 lakh will be eligible under this scheme. The third scheme under the PMs package will provide support to employers by reimbursing Rs. 3,000 per month for two years towards their EPFO contribution for each additional employee with a salary of up to Rs. 1 lakh per month. (ANI) PRNewswire Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], August 6: The Radiant Group of Companies is proud to announce the 2024 edition of the Radiant Wellness Conclave, a prestigious event dedicated to holistic wellness and inspirational thought leadership. This year's Conclave is scheduled for August 10th at Taj Coromandel, Chennai, from 9 am onwards. The conclave will hold special significance as it commemorates the 25th anniversary of India's victory in the Kargil War. In honour of this milestone, the Conclave will pay tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of those killed in action, wounded and veterans of the Kargil War, spotlighting their remarkable contributions to the nation's defence. Among the esteemed guests will be General Ved Prakash Malik, the Chief of Army Staff during the Kargil War, who played a pivotal role in leading India to victory. Key Highlights of RWC 2024: * Celebrating Heroes: A special tribute to those killed in action, wounded and veterans, including General Ved Prakash Malik, honouring their courage and dedication. * Veterans' Stories: Insightful sessions where Kargil War veterans will share their experiences and recount the valorous actions that secured India's triumph. This includes a panel discussion with Lt. Gen Mohinder Puri, Maj Gen Lakhwinder Singh, Lt Gen YK Joshi and Air Marshal Narayan Menon. * Distinguished Speakers: Prominent figures such as Dr Shashi Tharoor and Barkha Dutt will join the veterans and subject matter experts to discuss the significance of the Kargil War and its impact on national strategy and personal ethos of the body public. * Fireside Chat: The Fireside Chats at the event include 'The Role of Women in the Kargil War,' led by Dr. Renuka David, Founder of Radiant Wellness Conclave, with panellists Capt. Yashika Hatwal Tyagi, Anitha Ravindranath, and Dr Ranjana Malik; and 'The Role of Media in Portrayal of the Kargil War,' also led by Dr Renuka David, with panellists Shabbir Boxwala and Vishnuvardhan K. * Round Table Panel: A strategic discussion featuring Lt. Gen SL Narasimhan, Lt. Gen Rakesh Sharma, and Ambassador Gautam Bambawale. * Radiant National Icon Award: Honorary Captain Sanjay Kumar, a living Param Vir Chakra (PVC) awardee, will be receiving the prestigious Radiant National Icon Award. The award will be presented by Col. David Devasahayam, Dr Renuka David, General Ved Prakash Malik and Dr Shashi Tharoor in recognition of his exceptional bravery and service to the nation * Holistic Wellness Focus: The Conclave will also explore various dimensions of wellness, emphasizing the importance of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Col. David Devasahayam, Patron of the Radiant Wellness Conclave, stated, "This year's Conclave is dedicated to our national heroes from the Kargil War. We are honoured to have General Ved Prakash Malik and other veterans join us to share their inspiring stories. Their bravery not only brought us victory but also instilled a sense of pride and resilience that continues to inspire us all." Dr. Renuka David, Founder of the Radiant Wellness Conclave, added, "In addition to honouring our Kargil War heroes, we also aim to create a holistic platform that promotes physical, mental, and emotional wellness. Our goal is to enable and equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives for themselves." The curation and content development for this year's event is led by Lt Gen. Devaraj Anbu, Former Army Cdr & Vice Chief, providing expert guidance on the Kargil War content. The Radiant Wellness Conclave is organized by the Radiant Foundation, a CSR initiative of the Radiant Group of Companies. As a not-for-profit event, it provides an apolitical platform for celebrating national achievements and promoting wellness in society. For more information and updates on the Radiant Wellness Conclave 2024, please visit http://radiantwellnessconclave.com/. About Radiant Wellness Conclave: The Radiant Wellness Conclave is an annual event organized by the Radiant Foundation, a CSR initiative of the Radiant Group of Companies. The Conclave brings together esteemed thought leaders to discuss wellness across various dimensions and inspire positive change in society. For more information visit: https://radiantgroups.com/ Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2476148/Radiant_Conclave.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) VMPL New Delhi [India], August 6: Amidst the urban landscape of India's financial capital, Sion is transforming itself into a vibrant hub for residential development. For professionals seeking a modern crossover lifestyle, it offers a unique blend of accessibility and convenience due to its prime location and rapid development. In addition to the current improvements, the neighbourhood's social fabric is improving due to the local markets, cafes, and restaurants, which provide a fulfilling social life. Conveniently located between Wadala and BKC, Mumbai (Business district), Sion offers exceptional accessibility that appeals to both businesses and residents. BKC the Mumbai's business district is home to major corporations, banks, pharmaceutical companies and financial institutions. The Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), a top commercial hub, hosts multinational companies and professionals from Mumbai and beyond. As BKC reaches its peak, surrounding areas also experience increased construction activity. Wadala is poised to become India's first large-scale Transit-Oriented Development, marking it as the next Central Business District (CBD), sanctioned by Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development (MMRDA). It will also be hosting the GST Bhavan, the execution of which is currently underway. This continual expansion fulfils the changing needs of the corporate community while keeping Central Mumbai competitive with global business hubs. The surrounding areas, particularly Sion, are expanding rapidly due to increased investment and ongoing infrastructure development. Sion, strategically located near the Eastern Freeway connector, Atal Setu Trans Harbour Link, and BKC connector, offers excellent proximity to Mumbai's main business districts. The neighbourhood is particularly appealing to corporate buyers who value the walk-to-work lifestyle and idolize crossover living. K Raheja Corp Homes, a renowned name in Mumbai's residential landscape, introduces its first ultra-luxury project in Sion, Raheja Amaltis. It offers 3 & 4-bed residences with decks. Boasting excellent connectivity to Mumbai's major landmarks, this development caters to the contemporary 'glocal' audience with top-tier safety and sustainability features. Sandwiched between the Bandra Kurla Complex Mumbai and the new Central Business District in Wadala, Raheja Amaltis offers views of the Maharashtra Nature Park, and the vibrant cityscape, making it an ideal retreat for business leaders, CXOs, and CEOs. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) In an affirmation of the growing Indo-US partnership, Jonathan Heimer, Minister Counselor for Commercial Affairs at the US Foreign Commercial Service (FCS), highlighted the United States' dedication to supporting India's ambitious energy transition goals. Speaking at the 2nd Energy Summit organized by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC), Heimer emphasized the significant opportunities for collaboration between the two nations in the energy sector. "In India, we see so many opportunities for collaboration in the energy segment. With that reason we have established a strong presence in India," he said, speaking at the IACC inaugural session of the event themed 'Climate Change and Decarbonization of Indian Economy - Vision 2030' "US is a committed partner in India's clean energy journey. From solar and wind power to energy storage and grid modernization, American businesses are actively contributing to India's ambitious goals," Heimer added. Noting that India is undergoing an extraordinary journey in terms of energy transition, he add that its ambitious of 500 GW installed renewable energy capacity by 2030 underscores the country's goal to be a global leader in the clean energy space. Carrie Antal, Deputy Director - Indo-Pacific Office, USAID was of the view that given India's success in economic growth, several countries are looking at India for ideas and are aiming to follow its footsteps to achieve similar levels of growth trajectory. "Many eyes are on India now. Many are looking at India for ideas and support that can propel their own march towards prosperity," she said. Outlining the partnership of USAID and India, Antal said that in the past USAID and India collaborated to fuel India's green revolution, improve public health and education and made a foundation for inclusive and sustainable economic growth here. "Today the US partners with Indian private and public sectors to accelerate the achievement of sustainable development goals within India and also worldwide. We understand the innovations, investments and ideas made in India can transform our whole world for the better," she said. She was of the view that collaboration between Indian private sector and development partners like USAID would help in joint activities that will achieve maximum development impact where it is needed from social perspective while simultaneously advancing private sector priorities from a business perspective. Address the IACC event, Upendra Tripathy, IAS (retired), Former Secretary, MNRE, GOI & Founding DG, International Solar Alliance said there are institutions, individuals and ideas in both countries and there is ample scope for bilateral engagements and knowledge sharing. Talking of the diverse and vast aspects of energy transition, he said, "We are not anymore talking of energy, coal, hydro, renewable alone. We have to reach out all these sectors and that is where mitigation and adaption play and equal role." Sunil Jain Summit, Chairman, Energy Committee, IACC & Founder Partner Sundev Renewables said, "although governments and policymakers have become proactive in terms of net zero targets, it needs to be seen whether it is enough or it is a case of too, only time. He also said that small modular reactors (SMR) would play a key role in the future energy transition and it is a major space where both India and the US can collaborate. Arun Karna Regional President IACC- NIC & Managing Director & CEO AT & T Global Network Services India Pvt Ltd said, "Renewable energy not only addresses environmental concerns but also drives economic growth by creating jobs and fostering innovation. The collaboration and the US in this sector has been instrumental in advancing technology transfer and investment, accelerating our transition to a low carbon economy." Highlighting the need to take immediate and effective steps to curb climate change, Dr. Lalit Bhasin Immediate Past National President of Indo-American Chamber of Commerce stressed on the need for striking a balance between climate change mitigation and economic growth of emerging and developing countries. "We have to face the challenge of this climate change very effectively, but at the same time we have to ensure economic development also, particularly of the emerging world and countries like India. Therefore, a balance has to be struck," Dr Bhasin said. Other speakers in the session were Mr. Manoj K Singh Regional Vice President, IACC & Founder, S&A Law Offices and Dr Nitin Seth Regional Vice President, IACC & Vice Chairman GD Foods MFG (I) (P) Ltd. (ANI) NewsVoir New Delhi [India], August 6: Secureye, the leading security and surveillance brand, proudly announced the launch of its advanced PHOENIX IP camera series at a grand event held at the Surya Hotel, New Delhi. The event, attended by 120 employees from across India, including branch heads, product managers, and the senior management team, was a monumental success. YouTube Link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0yuH0nCc2M&t=10s The event commenced with the auspicious Aarti of Lord Ganesh and lamp lighting ceremony conducted by Manoj Gupta (Managing Director, Fortune Marketing), Manish Agrawal (Director, Fortune Marketing), Atul Gupta (Director, Secureye), and Krishna Mohan (Product Manager, Secureye). This was followed by a warm welcome from Atul Gupta, who extended his gratitude to the branch heads, sales team, channel partners, and dealer distribution network for their unwavering support and faith in the brand. Atul Gupta emphasized the transformative impact of the PHOENIX series on both Secureye and the security industry at large, describing it as a game-changer. The attendees engaged in a series of fun activities, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. Manoj Gupta addressed the audience, congratulating the Secureye team on the successful launch and urging them to strive for new heights. He acknowledged the indispensable role of business partners and channel partners in Secureye's journey, expressing heartfelt thanks for their continuous support. The highlight of the evening was the countdown to the unveiling of the PHOENIX IP camera series at 8:30 PM. The atmosphere was electric with excitement as the new product was revealed, marking a pivotal moment for the brand and the attendees. Following the launch, Manish Agrawal delivered a heartfelt thank you note, recognizing the contributions of the branch heads, sales team, and everyone involved in making the launch a grand success. He expressed confidence that the PHOENIX series would set a new benchmark in the security industry. The celebration continued with dancing, cocktails, and a sumptuous dinner, ensuring that the event was a memorable experience for all. Secureye also provided comprehensive product training to the sales team, with the technical department addressing all queries related to the new product. The launch of the PHOENIX IP camera series marks a significant milestone for Secureye, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and excellence in the security and surveillance industry. Secureye is a leading brand in the security and surveillance sector since 20 Years, known for its innovative solutions and commitment to quality. With a robust network of channel partners and a dedicated team, Secureye continues to set new standards in the industry. Website: www.secureye.com. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) NewsVoir Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], August 6: TVS Motor Company's Revenue from Operations in the quarter ended June 2024 is higher at Rs 8,376 Crores, grew by 16 per cent as against Rs 7,218 Crores in the quarter ended June 2023. The Company posted its highest ever Operating EBITDA of Rs 960 Crores with a growth of 26 per cent for the first quarter of 2024-25 as against EBITDA of Rs 764 Crores in first quarter of 2023-24. Company's operating EBITDA margin significantly improved by 90bps at 11.5 per cent as against 10.6 per cent in the quarter ended June 2023. The Company posted its highest ever Profit Before Tax (PBT) of Rs 783 Crores recording a growth of 28 per cent for the first quarter of 2024-25 as against Rs 610 Crores in the first quarter of 2023-24. PBT for the quarter includes notional gain of Rs 28 Crores towards fair valuation of investments held by the Company. During the current quarter, the Company's Profit After Tax (PAT) grew by 23 per cent at Rs 577 Crores as against Rs 468 Crores during first quarter of 2023-24. Sales The overall two-wheeler and three-wheeler sales including exports grew by 14 per cent registering sales of 10.87 Lakh units in the quarter ended June 2024 as against 9.53 Lakh units registered in the quarter ended June 2023. Motorcycle sales grew by 11 per cent registering 5.14 Lakh units in the quarter ended June 2024 as against 4.63 Lakh units in quarter ended June 2023. Scooter sales for the quarter ended June 2024 grew by 19 per cent at 4.18 Lakh units as against 3.50 Lakh units in the first quarter of 2023-24. Three-wheeler sales for the quarter under review is at 0.31 Lakh units as against 0.35 Lakh units during first quarter of 2023-24. Electric Scooter sales for the quarter ended June 2024 is at 0.52 lakh units as against 0.39 lakh units in the quarter ended June 2023. New Product Launches During the quarter, Company introduced new variants to TVS iQube portfolio for making electric mobility accessible to everyone. TVS iQube, is now available in three battery options to choose from 2.2 kWh, 3.4kWh and 5.1kWh. TVS iQube series now offers an array of five variants available in vibrant 11 colours, making this one of the largest and most attractive EV portfolios in the market. TVS iQube portfolio is receiving very good response from the customers. TVS Motor Company (BSE:532343 and NSE: TVSMOTOR) is a reputed two and three-wheeler manufacturer globally, championing progress through sustainable mobility with four state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities located in India and Indonesia. Rooted in our 100-year legacy of trust, value, and passion for customers, it takes pride in making internationally accepted products of the highest quality through innovative and sustainable processes. TVS Motor is the only two-wheeler company to have won the prestigious Deming Prize. Our products lead in their respective categories in the J.D. Power IQS and APEAL surveys. We have been ranked No. 1 Company in the J.D. Power Customer Service Satisfaction Survey for four consecutive years. Our group company Norton Motorcycles, based in the United Kingdom, is one of the most emotive motorcycle brands in the world. Our subsidiaries in the personal e-mobility space, Swiss E-Mobility Group (SEMG) and EGO Movement have a leading position in the e-bike market in Switzerland. TVS Motor Company endeavours to deliver the most superior customer experience across 80 countries in which we operate. For more information, please visit www.tvsmotor.com. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Amid political unrest in Bangladesh, the two-day BIMSTEC Business Summit held in New Delhi said that BIMSTEC must together add more areas of cooperation to its ambit. The Bangladesh-India-Sri Lanka-Thailand Economic Cooperation group was first established in June 1997 and in 2004, it was expanded to include Bhutan, Myanmar, and Nepal to become the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).The Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) has released a Study on BIMSTEC Economic Cooperation with recommendations to improve economic cooperation among the member countries.BIMSTEC's primary focus is economic and technical cooperation among the countries of South Asia and Southeast Asia that are geographically around the Bay of Bengal. Five Summit meetings have been held so far, with the sixth to take place in Thailand this year.The GDP of BIMSTEC countries is currently about USD 4.5 trillion but the region can achieve faster future growth rates through better economic integration. But with a total population of 1.7 billion, or 22 per cent of the world's population, BIMSTEC countries have the potential to contribute to the global economy and each other.The combined external trade of the BIMSTEC member states in 2022 amounted to USD 1.95 trillion. However, intra-regional trade is low and not commensurate with the diversified economies of the member states.CII study recommends that BIMSTEC must together add more areas of cooperation to its ambit. It includes expanding skill development to leverage the young workforce, evolving methodologies for e-commerce cooperation, boosting digital public infrastructure and digital access, and fostering women-led development. All of these can be disseminated via best practices followed by member countries, such as women's participation in economic development in Bangladesh, e-commerce in Thailand, and digital public infrastructure in India.Another recommendation of CII study is that industry in all countries should be more deeply engaged and involved in achieving the goals of BIMSTEC. Businesses including small and medium enterprises must be empowered to forge the necessary linkages across borders and build resilient supply chains.BIMSTEC countries should also finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which may be in phases. It would lead to quicker implementation and promote investment, job creation, technology partnerships, and services.The member countries should also think about easing FDI restrictions, improving energy collaborations, developing agriculture technology transfer agreements, increasing regional cooperation in tourism, technology transfer facilities, and increasing transport connectivity between BIMSTEC states.CII study says the sixth BIMSTEC Summit meeting will be an opportunity to enhance business engagement in the region for deepening economic linkages within the region as well as collectively addressing external opportunities. With greater industry collaborations and joint projects, the BIMSTEC region and its member states could accelerate their efforts toward growth and development and derive significant benefits in terms of employment and income generation. The CII BIMSTEC Business Summit aimed to catalyse business networks and industry cooperation to align with governmental initiatives. (ANI) India has witnessed an increase in seafood exports over the past few years, achieving growth of 30.81 per cent from 2019-20 to 2023-24. The concerted efforts of the government have played a pivotal role in this success, positioning India as a key player in the global seafood market. According to a release by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, India's seafood industry has experienced notable growth over the past five years, marked by increasing production and export volumes as well as rising export values. Over the past five years, India's marine product production and exports have steadily increased. From 141.64 lakh tonnes in production and 13.29 lakh tonnes in exports in 2019-20, production rose to 147.25 lakh tonnes while exports dipped in 2020-21 primarily due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. By 2021-22, production reached 162.48 lakh tonnes and exports 13.98 lakh tonnes. This trend continued with production at 175.45 lakh tonnes and exports at 17.54 lakh tonnes in 2022-23. For 2023-24, production is projected to be 182.70 lakh tonnes, with exports expected to reach 18.19 lakh tonnes. India's seafood export value has shown a significant upward trend over the past five years. In 2019-20, the export value stood at Rs. 46,662.85 crore, followed by a slight decline to Rs. 43,720.98 crore in 2020-21. However, the sector rebounded strongly in the subsequent years, with exports reaching Rs. 57,586.48 crore in 2021-22 and further increasing to Rs. 63,969.14 crore in 2022-23. For the year 2023-24, the export value is projected to be Rs. 61,043.68 crore, reflecting the sustained efforts and strategic initiatives implemented by the government to boost the seafood industry. India exported marine products to 132 countries, demonstrating its extensive reach in the global seafood market. The USA retained its position as the major importer of Indian seafood with a 34.53 per cent share in terms of USD. In 2023-24, the USA imported 3,29,192 MT of seafood, accounting for the second-largest volume at 18.48 per cent, valued at USD 2,549.15 million. Exports to the USA increased by 7.46 per cent in quantity and 1.42 per cent in Rs value terms. The USA also offered the second-highest unit value realization among the top 10 countries, at 7.74 USD/Kg. China (excluding Hong Kong and Taiwan) remained the second-largest destination for Indian seafood, holding an 18.76 per cent share in USD earnings. China imported 4,51,363 MT of seafood, the largest volume at 25.33 per cent, worth USD 1,384.89 million. Although exports to China showed a positive trend with a 12.80 per cent increase in quantity, they declined by 4.21 per cent in USD terms. Japan regained its position as the third-largest export destination in terms of USD (5.42 per cent share) and ranked fifth in volume (6.06 per cent share). The export volume to Japan was 1,07,968 MT, valued at USD 399.74 million. Vietnam emerged as the fourth-largest export destination in terms of USD (5.30 per cent share) and volume (7.41 per cent share). The exports to Vietnam totalled 1,32,086 MT, worth USD 391.41 million, showing a decline in both volume and value terms year-on-year. Thailand ranked as the fifth-largest export destination in terms of USD (3.82 per cent share) and held the third position by volume (7.77 per cent share). The export volume to Thailand was 1,38,457 MT, valued at USD 281.97 million, also showing a decline in both volume and value terms year-on-year. The Indian government has implemented several initiatives to bolster the seafood export sector. A key player in this is the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), which provides crucial support. MPEDA offers assistance to upgrade processing facilities, establish quality testing laboratories, and participate in international trade fairs. This helps enhance the quality and competitiveness of Indian seafood products in global markets. The government provides technical assistance for aquaculture production, a vital component of the seafood industry. This support includes the transfer of advanced technologies and best practices to increase production and productivity. To make Indian seafood products more competitive internationally, the government in Budget 2024-25 has reduced import duties on essential ingredients used in seafood feed. Key reductions include the complete removal of duties on fish lipid oil, algal prime, crude fish oil, and pre-dust breaded powder. Additionally, import duties on krill meal, mineral and vitamin premixes, and prawn/shrimp and fish feed have been significantly lowered. To further incentivize seafood exports, the government has enhanced the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Export Products (RoDTEP) scheme. The refund rate for various seafood products has been increased from 2.5 per cent to 3.1 per cent of the export value, with a higher cap of Rs. 69 per kilogram. This means exporters will receive a larger rebate for each kilogram of seafood exported, making Indian products more competitive in international markets. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) aims to modernize the fisheries sector, including developing cold chain infrastructure, reducing post-harvest losses, and improving overall productivity. A stronger domestic seafood industry indirectly supports exports by ensuring a steady supply of quality products. India's seafood industry has demonstrated robust growth and resilience over the past five years, significantly enhancing its position in the global market. The concerted efforts by the government, encompassing infrastructure development, aquaculture support, duty reductions, export incentives, and the implementation of schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), have played a pivotal role in this success. As a result, India has not only increased its production and export volumes but also expanded its market reach to 132 countries. The sustained upward trend in export value underscores the effectiveness of these strategic initiatives. Moving forward, continued support and innovative measures will be essential to maintaining this momentum and further solidifying India's stature as a leading player in the global seafood industry. (ANI) Veteran actor Kamal Haasan has announced that he will not be hosting the upcoming eighth season of 'Bigg Boss Tamil'. Taking to his X account, Haasan shared that he needs to step away from the show due to prior commitments in cinema. In his statement, he wrote, "Dear Viewers, With a heavy heart, I wish to inform you that I will be taking a small break from our journey that began 7 years ago. Due to prior cinematic commitments, I'm unable to host the upcoming season of Bigg Boss Tamil." He also expressed his gratitude towards the audience, saying, "I have been privileged to reach you in your homes. You have showered me with your love and affection, for which you have my everlasting gratitude. Your spirited and passionate support of the contestants is at the core of what makes Bigg Boss Tamil one of the best television reality shows in India." https://x.com/ikamalhaasan/status/1820774245816795530 Reflecting on his experience, Haasan added, "Personally, being your host has been an enriching association, where I have honestly shared my learnings. I will always be grateful for this learning experience. I sincerely thank each one of you and the contestants in the show for our time together. Lastly, I would like to thank the wonderful team at Vijay TV, as well as every crew member who has been involved in making this enterprise a grand success. I am sure this season will be yet another success (sic)." Kamal Haasan has been a part of 'Bigg Boss Tamil' since it first aired in 2007. The actor has consistently hosted every season of 'Bigg Boss Tamil'. The new host for 'Bigg Boss Tamil 8' has yet to be announced. (ANI) Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday inspected the flood-hit areas of Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. CM Shinde met and distributed relief materials to the people in flood-affected areas of Pimpri Chinchwad. He also listened to the grievances of people. The city has been experiencing persistent heavy rain for the past few days. On the flood-like situation in Pune, CM Eknath Shinde said, "People staying on the banks of the river and those living in buildings falling on the 'Blue Line' (imaginary line to mark potential flood zone) should be rehabilitated appropriately." Speaking to reporters, he further said, "I have instructed concerned officials to find a permanent solution to various civic issues in Pune. I also held a review of the riverfront development project and instructed officials to make sure that this project shouldn't block river waters or the flow of the river in any way." Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also held a meeting with all senior officials of the Pune district administration to take stock of the situation after heavy rains lashed the city in the past few days. Earlier on Sunday, the Indian Army carried out relief work in the Ekta Nagar area in response to incessant rainfall in Pune and the release of excess water from the Khadakwasla Dam. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted heavy rainfall at isolated places in ghat areas. Light to moderate rainfall in the plains for August 6, while moderate rainfall for August 7. Earlier on July 25, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar visited flood-affected areas in Ekta Nagar and Vitthal Nagar of Pune city to take stock of the situation. After the visit, Ajit Pawar said, "There was never such an issue of waterlogging or flooding here in these areas but we don't know why it happened this time. The Revenue Department and the Municipal Corporation will come and do the needful." Earlier in July, the District Fire Brigade rescued 70 people who had been stranded in the flood waters in the Nimbjanagar area of the city following heavy downpours. (ANI) Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday said that there are problems in the sector and he will discuss the issues with the farmers and their unions. "There are problems in agriculture but solutions are also there. We will speak to farmers and farmers' unions," he said while replying to a discussion in Rajya Sabha on the working of the agriculture ministry and farmers' welfare. "We will move towards solutions through dialogues. We will go ahead by taking everyone together. Kaun kehta hai ki aasman mein surakh nahi hota, ek pathhar toh tabiat se uchhalo yaaron...We will leave no stone unturned in the welfare of agriculture and farmers," he added. Meanwhile, Congress said that it will give notice for a privilege motion against the Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in the Rajya Sabha for "misleading the House" on various counts. Addressing a press conference here, Congress MPs Randeep Singh Surjewala and Digvijaya Singh alleged that Chouhan misled the House "by telling lies". Surjewala, a Congress general secretary, said that while Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always been claiming to provide farmers with minimum support price (MSP) on input costs plus fifty per cent, in an affidavit filed in the Supreme Court on February 6, 2015, the BJP government had said that it was not possible. He asked what is the actual truth. Surjewala also challenged the that the claim that farmers were getting prices over and above the MSP on various crops. Earlier in the day, the Union Minister for Agriculture slammed the opposition leaders in the Rajya Sabha for not "prioritising the farmers". "We were discussing Kisan Samman Nidhi. Congress talked about direct assistance to farmers but Congress never made a scheme like Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi. Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi made this scheme. They (opposition) will not understand but the amount of Rs 6000 matters for small farmers. Due to this Kisan Samman Nidhi, farmers have become self-reliant, farmers have also become empowered and the respect of farmers has also increased. They (opposition) cannot see the respect of farmers," Chouhan said. (ANI) Mumbai Police have apprehended two suspects who were carrying the body in a suitcase on the train after committing the murder. Early Monday morning, Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) were conducting a luggage-checking operation when they discovered the body inside a suitcase. Upon interrogation, it was revealed that the murder took place in the jurisdiction of Pydhunie Police Station. According to the police, there was a dispute between the victim and the accused over a female friend. The suspects have been identified as Jai Praveen Chavda and his accomplice Shivjeet Surendra Singh. Both were involved in the murder of Arshad Ali Sheikh, a resident of Santacruz. After the murder, on Sunday night, the suspects planned to travel by Tutari Express train to dispose of the body, the police said. Dadar Railway Police registered a case and arrested one of the suspects at the railway station. The other escaped but was later arrested in Ulhasnagar. The victim and both suspects are deaf-mutes and communicate using sign language. The police enlisted a sign language expert to assist in the interrogation, which clarified the motive for the murder. The primary suspect had a fight with the victim over a female friend. The victim was invited to the suspect's house for a party, during which a dispute broke out again and escalated to the point of murder. The body was completely wrapped in plastic and packed in a suitcase, the police said. Further investigation is underway, and more details are awaited. (ANI) Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju held a meeting with a delegation of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC) comprising the prominent Sajjadanashins from various Dargahs across the country. The meeting was held on Monday evening under the leadership of Syed Naseruddin Chishty, Chairman and Successor of the present spiritual head of Ajmer Dargah. The discussion was held on a wide range of key issues regarding the Muslim community. Taking to the social media platform, Rijiju wrote, "Last evening a delegation of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC) comprising of the most revered & prominent Sajjadanashins from various Dargahs across India met me under the leadership of Shri Syed Naseruddin Chishty, Chairman & Successor of the present spiritual head of Ajmer Dargah to discuss a range of important issues concerning the Muslim community. It was a fruitful & forward-looking discussion. They lauded & praised the efforts of PM Shri @narendramodi ji towards the welfare of the entire community and minorities in general. They also committed themselves towards the Sankalp of Viksit Bharat 2047." Notably, BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla was also present during the meeting. Meanwhile, Rijiju stated that there have been persistent demands and appeals from poor and ordinary Muslim women to ensure Waqf property is managed more transparently, efficiently, and beneficially for the Muslim community. Top government sources revealed that the bill is likely to be presented after the passage of the Finance Bill, likely this week. Before drafting the amendments, the government consulted various Muslim intellectuals and organisations to ensure comprehensive reforms. One of the key proposed amendments is the mandatory registration of Waqf properties with the District Collector's office, allowing for proper evaluation and monitoring. Additionally, the amendments aim to enhance inclusivity by ensuring women's representation on both the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf boards. (ANI) The Patna Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) stated, "Accused (51) who sent a threatening email to Bihar CM's office has been arrested from Kolkata. Along with this, the mobile from which the threatening email was sent has also been recovered." The Bihar Police registered a case after the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) in Patna received an email threatening to blow up the building. The email, which was received on July 16, came from an unidentified account claiming to be associated with Al-Qaeda. The sender threatened that the CMO premises would be "blown up with a bomb" and stated that even Bihar's special police could not prevent it. The threat prompted an investigation by the police and the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS). An FIR was filed at Sachiwalaya police station based on a statement from Station House Officer Sanjeev Kumar on August 2. A case has been registered under Sections 351 (4) and (3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 66 (F) of the IT Act against the unidentified individuals involved, police said. (ANI) Congress MP Manish Tewari on Tuesday gave an adjournment notice in Lok Sabha to discuss the "political crisis in Bangladesh and its implications for India" in the House on Tuesday. In the notice, Tewari asked the house to suspend Zero Hour and relevant rules and other business of the day to discuss the matter. "I hereby give notice of my intention to ask for leave to move a motion for the adjournment of the business of the house for the purpose of discussing a definite matter of urgent importance, namely: That this House do suspend Zero Hour and relevant rules relating to Question Hour and other businesses of the day to have a discussion on the political crisis in Bangladesh and its implications for India," Tewari mentioned in the notice. "Recent events in Bangladesh have seen Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resign and leave the country due to the unrest. This situation has potential consequences for India's strategic interests. I urge the Government to inform the House about the steps being taken to address the potential security, economic, and diplomatic repercussions of this situation. I request permission to raise this matter," Tewari further added. The political situation in Bangladesh remains volatile following Sheikh Hasina's resignation amid escalating protests. These demonstrations, largely driven by students demanding an end to the quota system for government jobs, have evolved into broader anti-government protests. Recent clashes in Dhaka have resulted in at least 135 fatalities, including 14 police officers, with hundreds more injured, according to local media outlets. Following her resignation, Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening. It is unclear whether she will stay in Delhi or travel to another location, with some reports suggesting she might proceed to London. In response to the crisis, the Cabinet Committee on Security convened on Monday at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence. The meeting, which included Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, focused on the situation in Bangladesh. Senior officials were also present at the briefing. The budget session of Parliament began on July 22 and, according to schedule, will end on August 12. (ANI) A massive fire broke out at four tent godowns in Delhi's Jaunapura area on Tuesday. Four cars in the parking lot adjacent to godowns also caught fire. After receiving the information, 10 fire tenders were rushed to the site. Visuals show huge piles of half-burnt material lying on the floor following the fire incident. More details are awaited. Earlier on Sunday, a fire broke out in a waste material warehouse in Delhi's Karala area, said an official. Sharing details about the incident, the Assistant Divisional Officer (ADO) of Delhi Fire Service said, "The fire incident took place in the Karala area that falls in the Rohini sub-division. We received information about the fire around 8:45 pm on Saturday." "After receiving the information, 12 fire tenders arrived at the spot. The fire erupted and spread out in the warehouse, burning piles of waste material, including car seat cut material and shoe stuff," said the official. The official further said that the blaze had spread out in the open area surrounding the warehouse, which is spread over 1 acre. "There is no possibility of casualties in the incident and none such has been reported as yet. Fire officials are on the spot. We will have controlled the blaze by 5 or 6 am," said the ADO. Earlier on Thursday, a fire broke out in a plastic factory in Delhi's Mayapuri area, officials said. According to the Delhi Fire Services Department, plastic material kept inside the factory was destroyed in the fire, which broke out at around 9:30 am. Upon receiving information, four fire brigade vehicles were sent to the spot and started an operation to douse the fire.It took around an hour for fire service staff and officials to bring the fire under control. No casualties or injuries were reported, officials said. (ANI) 39-year-old Tobir Ahmed alias Tabir is a resident of Bihar against whom the case was registered in the police station Nabi Karim in the national capital in 2008. He was convicted of rigorous imprisonment for life and a fine in the above-mentioned case and was released on emergency parole. The date of surrender was fixed for April 7, 2024, but the convict did not surrender after the expiry of his parole. A piece of secret information was received regarding the parole jumper stating that the accused has been living in the area of Pragati Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal and has been changing his location frequently. The same was verified from Tihar Jail, the statement added. Surveillance was mounted to trace the movement of the accused. Accordingly, a team was sent to Kolkata and after a relentless pursuit based on secret information, the team arrested Tobir Ahmed, statement from Delhi police crime branch officials further noted. More updates on the matter are awaited. (ANI) The INDIA alliance leaders held a protest against the Central government outside the Makar Dwar in the Parliament on Tuesday, demanding to roll back GST on health and life insurance. Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also joined the protest. Congress MP Jebi Mather spoke on this and said that no GST should be applied to health and life insurance. She further added that this decision of the government reflects no respect for human faith. Speaking to ANI, Mather said, "Now, the central government has imposed 18 percent GST on the insurance, which is taken by the poor as a solace. This decision by the government just reflects that there is no respect for human faith and the India bloc stands united in demanding a rollback of the GST on insurance." Earlier, on August 2, the All India Trinamool Congress (AITMC) leader and MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay criticised the Union government, calling the 18 percent GST on medical and health insurance "anti-people" and said that it is adversely affecting the citizens of the country. Speaking with the reporters, Bandyopadhyay asserted that the matter of GST on health has been raised by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He said, "We raised the issue today that GST on life insurance premiums and medicine be withdrawn immediately. Our Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, raised her voice yesterday. We feel that this GST is anti-people. This GST is adversely affecting the people of the country." He further emphasised that the government should take back the move. The government must roll back and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman should come to the House and declare it immediately. "We will go to the streets if necessary for a bigger movement under the leadership of Mamata Banerjee," he added. Meanwhile, the TMC Lok Sabha MPs also staged a protest, demanding the removal of GST on medical and health insurance on August 3. (ANI) Congress MP Manish Tewari urged the central government on Tuesday to facilitate discussion in both Houses of Parliament regarding the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh. Speaking to reporters in the Parliament premises, Tewari dubbed the situation in Bangladesh as "sensitive." "It is a serious situation which is worrisome for South Asia and East Asia. I hope that there will be a detailed discussion on this issue in both Houses of Parliament and that the government will play its role in facilitating this discussion," Tewari said. Tewari earlier gave an adjournment notice asking the house to suspend the zero hour and relevant rules of the day to discuss the matter. He also urged the central government to inform the house about the steps being taken to address the potential security, economic and diplomatic repercussions of this situation. Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) MP NK Premachandran said that the Government of India has to clear its position regarding the Bangladesh issue. "It was one of the closest allies of India. But unfortunate incidents have happened. We are not aware of the full situation that is prevailing in Bangladesh. So let the government come out with an open statement regarding the political situation prevailing in Bangladesh," Premachandran said while speaking to ANI. Premachandran also expressed great concern for the matter as "disturbances" in Bangladesh will affect India also being the closest neighbouring country. "Further it is with great concern we are looking into the affairs because the closest neighbouring country Bangladesh having some disturbances affecting our country also. We have grave concern on this issue," he added. The political situation in Bangladesh remains volatile following Sheikh Hasina's resignation amid escalating protests. These demonstrations, largely driven by students demanding an end to the quota system for government jobs, have evolved into broader anti-government protests. Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar chaired an all-party meeting in Delhi to brief about the situation in Bangladesh. The meeting was attended by Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, Union Ministers Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, JP Nadda, Kiren Rijiju, HD Kumaraswamy, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, opposition MPs KC Venugopal, and Supriya Sule among others. Jaishankar briefed the leaders on how the issue had panned out in Bangladesh and the prevailing situation in the country. He also spoke about how Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina had moved to India and how India would take care of the Bangladeshi leader, sources from the all-party meeting told ANI. Recent clashes in Dhaka have resulted in at least 135 fatalities, including 14 police officers, with hundreds more injured, according to local media outlets. Following her resignation, Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening. It is unclear whether she will stay on in Delhi or travel to another location, with some reports suggesting she might proceed to London. (ANI) Several MPs will be present on this significant occasion, and former CBI Director M. Nageshwar Rao will also be present at the occasion. The program will commence with Mangala Dhwani. Raghavacharya Ji Maharaj and 300 saints and mahants from across the country will also be present on this auspicious occasion. At Talkatora Indoor Stadium, Ratna Devi from Kawardha will present a silver throne to Shankaracharya. Bhajan maetsro Anup Jalota will perform Ganesh Vandana and Sohr. Shankaracharya will be welcomed with dance displays from Haryana and Kashmir, adding cultural colour to this festival. 21 scholars from Kashi will also come to honour Shankaracharya. The unique tradition of Tuladan, where Shankaracharya will be weighed with rabri, will be the main attraction of this event. This event is extremely significant from a religious, cultural, and social perspective, spreading the message of unity, devotion, and service in society. (ANI) Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday informed the lower house of Parliament that External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will make a statement on the situation in Bangladesh. Birla informed the House after Question Hour concluded that Jaishankar will make a suo moto statement at 3.30 pm in Lok Sabha. Jaishankar will also make a statement regarding the situation in Bangladesh at 2:30 pm in Rajya Sabha. The External Affairs Minister earlier today chaired an all-party meeting in Parliament and briefed the leaders about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh and the prevailing situation in the neighbouring country. He also spoke about how Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina had moved to India and how India would take care of the Bangladeshi leader, sources from the all-party meeting told ANI. Jaishankar said that Sheikh Hasina is in India and the Indian government wants to give her time to let the Indian government know what her future course of action would be. Taking to X, S Jaishankar stated, "Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended." During the meeting, Jaishankar told the leaders that the central government was in touch with the Bangladesh Army as well. He said that it is a prevailing situation and the government will take appropriate action at the right time, according to sources. According to sources, the leaders in the party meeting were informed that there are 20000 Indian nationals in the country. According to sources, so far 8000 Indian nationals have come back. Jaishankar informed the meeting that the Indian government is in touch with Indian nationals and the High Commission there continues to operate. The leaders were informed that the focus is on minorities and that they should be protected, sources from the all-party meeting told ANI. During the all-party meeting, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, asked about India's long-term and short-term strategy. The government stated that this was a progressive situation and they would continue to analyse it. Rahul Gandhi also questioned the government on the possible involvement of a foreign hand. The central government said that all possible angles were being looked into. After being briefed by the government, Rahul Gandhi expressed his support for the measures taken in the national interest. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation with Sheikh Hasina resigning from her post in the wake of mounting protests. The protests, majorly by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests.In Dhaka, the leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, in a bid to address Bangladesh's ongoing challenges. Meanwhile, Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening after tendering her resignation. It is not clear if Sheikh Hasina will continue to stay in Delhi or move to another location later. (ANI) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and JDS entered the fourth day of the 'Mysuru Chalo' padayatra on Tuesday, which was started against the alleged illegal activities of the Congress-ruled government since they came to power in the state. JDS State Youth Unit President Nikhil Kumaraswamy said that the JDS and BJP have started this padayatra regarding the alleged MUDA scam and the corruption that has taken place in Valmiki for the developmental works. Speaking to ANI, he said, "Today, we have all started this padayatra regarding the alleged MUDA scam and the corruption that has taken place in Valmiki for the developmental works. Karnataka CM himself has accepted on the floor that Rs. 89 crore has been wrongly utilised." Further, he added that today marks the fourth day of the padayatra, which will come to an end on Saturday. "Today, we are entering the fourth day of the padayatra, and we will be ending it on Saturday in Neerghata. On Saturday, we will hold a big rally and a big 'Samavesha' in Mysore. Congress is trying to divert this issue because the state is aware of the MUDA scam and Valmiki corruption that have taken place and they cannot get out of them. However, that is wrong, everyone in Karnataka is very smart," he added. Earlier, on August 4, Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy said on Saturday that the 10-day 'Mysore Chalo' padayatra has been started against the alleged illegal activities of the Congress-ruled government since coming to power in the state. "We are going to finish this programme in Mysuru. It is against several illegal activities done by this (Congress) government: corruption, land grabbing," the JD(S) leader told reporters hours after the event was started. He said that during the Padayatra, they would educate the people of Karnataka on how this government came to power. "After that, from day one, they started to grab the money from the exchequer and even from officials." (ANI) All India Sufi Sajjadanshin Council (AISSC) welcomed the central government's proposed amendments to the Waqf Board Act and appealed to everyone to "cooperate" with the government. Addressing a press conference in Delhi on Tuesday, AISSC Chairman Syed Naseruddin Chishty said, "From time to time, we have given memorandums to Govt of India demanding amendments in Waqf Act. Today, we have found through the media that the Govt of India is bringing amendments to this act. It is very important that the position of the dargahs is defined and they are protected." "I appeal to all including all political parties that politics should not be done on this issue as Muslims are connected to Waqf. I appeal to those opposing it should take part in the discussion on it and cooperate with the government to pass this bill," the AISSC chairman said. He said that there must be transparency in the Waqf Board as he highlighted the various corruption issues in Waqf boards across states. "We welcome that the government is bringing a Waqf amendment bill. We have written to NSA Ajit Doval on this matter and also met him. We are confident that the bill being brought by the government will be in favour of minorities and Muslims. People should not be misled," Syed Naseruddin Chishty said. "We hope that everyone's rights will be protected and corruption in Waqf board will end through the amendment in Waqf bill," he added. On August 5, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju held a meeting with a delegation of the AISSC comprising the prominent Sajjadanashins from various dargahs across the country. "Last evening a delegation of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC) comprising of the most revered and prominent Sajjadanashins from various Dargahs across India met me under the leadership of Syed Naseruddin Chishty, Chairman and Successor of the present spiritual head of Ajmer Dargah to discuss a range of important issues concerning the Muslim community," Kiren Rijiju said in a post on X on Tuesday. Rijiju said that it was a fruitful and forward-looking discussion. "They lauded and praised the efforts of PM Narendra Modi towards the welfare of the entire community and minorities in general. They also committed themselves towards the Sankalp of Viksit Bharat 2047," he added. According to top government sources, the Waqf amendment bill is likely to be presented after the passage of the Finance Bill, likely this week. Before drafting the amendments, the government consulted various Muslim intellectuals and organisations to ensure comprehensive reforms. One of the key proposed amendments is the mandatory registration of Waqf properties with the District Collector's office, allowing for proper evaluation and monitoring. Additionally, the amendments aim to enhance inclusivity by ensuring women's representation on both the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf boards. (ANI) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) filed its supplementary charge sheet on Tuesday against former Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, former deputy CM Tejaswi Yadav and other accused in the land for job scam case in the Rouse Avenue Court. Special Judge Vishal Gogne took on record the Supplementary Charge Sheet, which has named 11 more accused. It also has 96 relied-upon documents. It also has the names Lallan Chaudhary, Hazari Rai, Dharmender Kumar, Akhileshwar Singh, Ravinder Kumar, Late Lal Babu Rai, Sonmatia Devi, Late Kishun Dev Rai and Sanjay Rai. The court has listed the matter on August 13 for checking of the charge sheet and documents. On July 6, the Rouse Avenue court granted time and directed that ED file an additional or concluding charge sheet by the next date of hearing. The Joint Director of Enforcement also appeared pursuant to the direction of the court. He informed the court about the status of the investigation and the steps taken by the agency. Former Bihar CM Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti and Hema, along with other accused, had already been charged by the ED in this case. ED's SPP Manish Jain, along with Ishan Baisla and Snehal Sharda, filed the supplementary charge along with documents before the court. On the last date, the court had directed the ED to expedite the investigation, and it had directed that file an additional /concluding charge sheet by the next date. In April, the court directed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to finalise the conclusion of the pending investigation in the Land for Jobs money laundering case within two weeks. In this case, Bihar's former CM Rabri Devi, her daughters Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav, along with Amit Katyal and Hridyanand Chaudhary, have been charged. All accused except Amit Katyal appeared through video conferencing. Earlier On February 28, the court granted regular bail to Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti, Hema Yadav and Hridyanand Chaudhary. Earlier On January 27, the court issued summons to former Bihar CM Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti, Hema Yadav, Hridyanand Chaudhary and other accused in the Land for Job money laundering case. Amit Katyal was arrested by the ED during the investigation. Two firms, namely A K Infosystem and A B Export, have also been accused in this case. ED had submitted that in 2006-07, A K Infosystem was formed by Amit Katyal and its business was IT data analysis. No real business was done. Instead, several land parcels were bought by the company. One land parcel pertains to the main predicate offence, which is land for a job. This company was transferred in the name of Rabri Devi and Tejaswi Yadav in 2014 for the consideration of one lakh rupees, ED submitted. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on January 9, 2024 filed a Prosecution Complaint (Charge sheet) in Land for job scam money laundering case. ED submitted that A-B Export was supposed to be in the business of export. It was incorporated in 1996. In 2007, Rs. five crore came through five companies and a property in the New Friends colony was purchased. In this case, seven land parcels are involved. Out of these, Rabri, Hema Yadav, and Misa Bharti got land parcels. Later on, they sold out their land parcels. ED's Special Public Prosecutor had apprised the court that the Yadav family members are beneficiaries of the proceeds of crime. Katyal is said to be a close aide of former railways minister Lalu Prasad Yadav. The Delhi High Court had refused to quash Enforcement Directorate (ED) proceedings against Amit Katyal, who is accused of engaging in transactions with the family members of former railways minister Lalu Prasad Yadav. According to the ED in March, based on the specific intelligence inputs, searches were conducted at 24 locations at various places in Delhi NCR, Patna, Mumbai and Ranchi in the Railways Land for Job Scam, which resulted in the recovery of unaccounted cash of Rs 1 crore, foreign currency including USD 1900, 540 grams of gold bullion and more than 1.5 kg of gold jewellery (worth approximately Rs 1.25 e), as well as sev several other incriminating documents, including various property documents, sale deeds, etc., held in the names of family members and benamidaars, indicating illegal accretion of huge land bank and electronic devices. Searches resulted in the detection of proceeds of crime amounting to approximately Rs 600 crore at this point in time, which are in the form of immovable properties of Rs 350 crore and transactions of Rs 250 crore routed through various benamidaars, ED stated. According to the ED PMLA investigation conducted so far, several pieces of land at prominent locations in Patna and other areas were illegally acquired by the family of the then Rail Mantri, Lalu Prasad Yadav, in lieu of jobs provided by railways. The current market value of these land parcels is more than Rs. 200 crore. In this regard, several benamidars, shell entities and beneficial owners of these lands have been identified. Further, investigation under PMLA revealed that the property situated at New Friends Colony, Delhi (an independent 4-story bungalow registered in the name of M/s A B Exports Private Limited, a company owned and controlled by Tejashwi Prasad Yadav and his family) was shown to have been acquired at a value of mere Rs 4 lakhs, the present market value of which is approximately Rs.150 crore. It is suspected that a huge amount of cash or proceeds from crime has been infused into purchasing this property and a few Mumbai-based entities dealing in the gems and jewellery sector were used to channel the ill-gotten proceeds of crime in this regard. The property has been, on paper, declared as the offices of M/s A B Exports Private Limited and M/s AK Infosystems Pvt. Ltd. It is being exclusively used as residential premises by Tejasvi Prasad Yadav, son of Lalu Prasad Yadav. During the searches, Tejasvi Prasad Yadav was found to be staying at this house and was found to be using this house as his residential property. An ED investigation has found that 4 parcels of land acquired by the family of Lalu Yadav for just Rs. 7.5 lakhs from poor Group-D applicants were sold to Syed Abu Dojana, an ex-RJD MLA, by Mrs. Rabri Devi with huge gains of Rs 3.5 crore in a collusive deal. The ED investigation further revealed that a major portion of the amount thus received was transferred to the account of Tejashwi Prasad Yadav. Investigations revealed that, in a similar fashion, lands were taken from several poor parents and candidates in lieu of Group D jobs in the railways. It has been revealed during the investigation that in many railway zones, more than 50% of the recruited candidates were from Lalu Yadav families' constituencies, according to ED. (ANI) Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday asked MPs not to protest in the area in front of the steps leading to the Makar Dwar of Parliament. Leaders of the INDIA bloc parties had this morning held a protest against the Central government outside the Makar Dwar to press for the rollback of 18 per cent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on life and health insurance premiums. "It was the collective sentiment of the House that there will be no protest at any 'dwars' gate of Parliament House. No gate of Parliament House would be obstructed so that smooth passage of the members is ensured," Birla said. It is the responsibility of each member of Parliament to respect this collective sentiment, the Lok Sabha Speaker said in the House ahead of Zero Hour. He further said that no Member and particularly no senior member should do anything in the House that will lower their dignity. On August 2, the All India Trinamool Congress (AITMC) leader and MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay criticised the 18 percent GST by the Centre on medical and health insurance as "anti-people" and said that it is adversely affecting the citizens of the country. Earlier West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee had taken to X to post, "Our demand to the Government of India is to roll back GST from life insurance and medical insurance premium on grounds of people's health imperatives. "This GST is bad because it adversely affects people's ability to take care of their basic vital needs. If Government of India does not roll back the anti-people GST, we will be bound to hit the road," her post on X read. (ANI) Jekierin Walker, 20, is charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of Stefan Volkmann at a Circle K at 4698 Old Seguin Road in San Antonio. Volkmanns family has filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against Circle K Stores Inc. and landlord Ashita LLC. Walkers criminal trial is scheduled to start Monday. Jacob Beltran / Express-News The family of a man who was shot last year at a San Antonio convenience store and later died from his injuries has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Circle K Stores Inc. and its landlord. Stefan Volkmann was a patron Aug. 21 at the Circle K at 4698 Old Sequin Road when he was shot by a known panhandler in the area, the suit alleges. Volkmann was 41. Volkmanns parents, Ulrich and Silvia Volkmann, as representatives of his estate and on behalf of his minor son, sued Circle K and landlord and property owner Ashita LLC of Kemah on Galveston Bay on Friday in state District Court in San Antonio seeking more than $1 million in damages. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Circle K spokesman Chris Barnes said the chain does not comment on pending litigation. Ashita principal Sammy Virani said it had nothing to do with the incident at the store, saying, Were just a landlord. Virani said that the stores lease agreement calls for Circle K to indemnify Ashita for any liability arising from litigation. Circle K and Ashita owed a duty to use ordinary care, including the duty to protect and safeguard (Volkmann) from unreasonably dangerous conditions on the premises or to warn of their existence, the complaint says. The suits causes of action include gross negligence. Advertisement Article continues below this ad R. Scott Westlund, a San Antonio lawyer representing Volkmanns family, said Volkmann had gone into the Circle K for a bottle of water and to see his friend the store manager. Volkmann had walked to the store from a nearby tire shop, where he and his mother had gone to get a tire changed. The repair took less time than expected, so Silvia Volkmann drove to the Circle K to meet her son, Westlund said. Stefan Volkmann had a confrontation with his accused killer, Westlund said. She hears the shots, the lawyer said. Her son turns and falls on the hood of her car. She gets out. (He says,) Momma, momma, Ive been shot. Momma, momma, I cant breathe. You want to talk about break your heart. Volkmann later died at Brooke Army Medical Center. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jekierin Walker, who was 20 at the time and from Georgia, was charged with first-degree murder. While San Antonio police walked him past the media following his arrest, Walker said the victim had called him the n-word. Your son was a racist, Walker said, the Express-News reported at the time. He added he had no regrets. Westlund disputed Walkers take. The business about the racist comment is just baloney, Westlund said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Bexar County District Courts website shows Walkers criminal trial is scheduled to begin Monday. His bond had been set at $150,000, and he has remained in jail pending his trial. The Bihar Police headquarters issued a vigilance order in the state on Tuesday following the ongoing protests in Bangladesh. The police issued a notice to the public, stating that any information about suspicious activity or items should be reported immediately to the Superintendent of Police or the concerned district authorities. Toll-free numbers 14432 and 112 were also provided to the public. Earlier today, the External Affairs Minister, while briefing an all-party meeting on the situation in Bangladesh, informed members that Sheikh Hasina had moved to India and that India had assured all possible assistance to the Bangladeshi leader. The minister stated that the embattled former prime minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, is in India and that the Indian government wants to give her time to determine her future course of action. Taking to X, Jaishankar stated, "Briefed an all-party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. I appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended." During the meeting, Jaishankar informed the leaders that the central government was in touch with the Bangladesh Army as well. He said that it is a developing situation and the government will take appropriate action at the right time, according to sources. According to sources, the leaders at the meeting were informed that there are 20,000 Indian nationals in Bangladesh. So far, 8,000 Indian nationals have returned. Jaishankar informed the meeting that the Indian government is in touch with Indian nationals, and the High Commission there continues to operate. The leaders were informed that the focus is on protecting minorities, sources from the all-party meeting told ANI. During the all-party meeting, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, enquired about India's long-term and short-term strategy. The government stated that this was a developing situation and they would continue to analyze it. (ANI) Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) MP Fauzia Khan on Tuesday said that the political crisis in Bangladesh is a serious concern for our nation and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold an all-party meeting over the issue. She also called for a parliamentary discussion on this matter, stating it is important for national security. "It is a serious subject. It looks like anti-secular forces have captured Bangladesh. This is a serious issue for our nation too. If there are attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, then we must pay attention to them. There should be a discussion on this in Parliament as it is an issue concerning national security. The PM should hold a meeting with leaders of all political parties and there should be an an-party consensus. The govt should state in Parliament on this issue," Khan told ANI. Meanwhile, RJD MP Manoj Jha said that India should consider its strategic interests and closely watch the political developments in its immediate neighbourhood to avoid any undesirable outcomes. "The situation in Bangladesh is very serious...We have to keep our strategic interests in mind and should have a keen eye on the political developments in our immediate neighbourhood as these kinds of situations could have some possible outcomes that could be undesirable for us," Jha told ANI. Earlier today, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla informed the lower house of Parliament that External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will make a statement on the situation in Bangladesh. Birla informed the House after Question Hour concluded that Jaishankar would make a suo moto statement at 3.30 pm in Lok Sabha. Jaishankar will also make a statement regarding the situation in Bangladesh at 2:30 pm in Rajya Sabha. Earlier, the External Affairs Minister chaired an all-party meeting in Parliament and briefed the leaders about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh and the prevailing situation in the neighbouring country. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation with Sheikh Hasina resigning from her post in the wake of mounting protests. The protests, majorly by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests. In Dhaka, the leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, in a bid to address Bangladesh's ongoing challenges. Meanwhile, Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening after tendering her resignation. It is not clear if Sheikh Hasina will continue to stay in Delhi or move to another location later. (ANI) The deceased, identified as Shashi Chibbar, was described by neighbors as a psychopath. Residents alerted the police after noticing a foul smell emanating from the locked ground-floor house for several days. Police arrived and found the decomposed body, which has been sent for post-mortem. Further investigation is ongoing. Earlier today in Mumbai, two people were arrested after a dead body was found in a bag at Dadar railway station in Mumbai. Mumbai Police have apprehended two suspects who were carrying the body in a suitcase on the train after committing the murder. Early Monday morning, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government the Railway Police (GRP) were conducting a luggage-checking operation when they discovered the body inside a suitcase. Upon interrogation, it was revealed that the murder took place in the jurisdiction of Pydhunie Police Station. According to the police, there was a dispute between the victim and the accused over a female friend. The suspects have been identified as Jai Praveen Chavda and his accomplice, Shivjeet Surendra Singh. Both were involved in the murder of Arshad Ali Sheikh, a resident of Santacruz. After the murder, on Sunday night, the suspects planned to travel by Tutari Express train to dispose of the body, the police said. Dadar Railway Police registered a case and arrested one of the suspects at the railway station. The other escaped but was later arrested in Ulhasnagar. The victim and both suspects are deaf-mute and communicate using sign language. The police enlisted a sign language expert to assist in the interrogation, which clarified the motive for the murder. (ANI) One Pakistani intruder was neutralised, and 24 were apprehended in the Punjab sector till July 31 this year, informed Border Security Force on Tuesday. BSF said that during vigilant surveillance of international borders, alert troops of BSF Punjab Frontier successfully thwarted the intrusion attempts of 25 Pakistani nationals between January 1 and July 31, 2024. Of these, one was neutralised, and 24 were apprehended. "Of the 24 apprehended individuals, 12 were handed over to Punjab Police for further investigation, while the remaining 12 were handed over to Pakistan Rangers, having inadvertently crossed the border," said a senior BSF officer. The BSF remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the nation's sovereignty by securing the borders around the clock. On August 2, a 45-year-old unarmed intruder was neutralised near the Khora post in the Manguchek area of Jammu after he sneaked into Indian territory from Pakistan's Tugliyalpur post. The BSF also said that in recent times, drones have emerged as a significant security threat, increasingly used by malicious actors worldwide for illegal activities. In India, the Punjab border has become a hotspot for the illicit use of drones in smuggling activities. However, with advanced technology and continually evolving border domination tactics, the Punjab Frontier has made notable progress in countering threats of drones. As of July 31, BSF troops have seized 134 drones, significantly disrupting smuggling operations. BSF Punjab has also seized 164 kilograms of heroin smuggled from Pakistan into India, approximately 2.14 Crore of drug money and apprehended 46 smugglers as of July 31 this year. Most of these recoveries resulted from the vigilance of BSF personnel during their border duties, while some were made possible by information provided by alert villagers in border areas. The BSF said it remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the nation's sovereignty by securing the borders around the clock. (ANI) Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai said that there have been two terrorist attacks on pilgrims and 14 casualties were reported during the past five years in the country. In a reply to the question raised by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee in Lok Sabha, MoS Rai said, "2 terrorist attacks on pilgrims and 14 Casualties of pilgrims during the last five years between 2019 to 29 July 2024. To ensure the safety and security of pilgrims, measures taken by the Government include the issuance of Advisories from time to time, sharing of intelligence through institutional mechanisms and providing Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) whenever requested by the concerned State/Union Territory (UT)." MoS Rai said that the central government framed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and also implemented them, in particular, for the safety/security of pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir. He added that adequate security arrangements in coordination with all security agencies have been put in place for the safety of pilgrims. "CCTV cameras have been installed on Amarnath Yatra (SANJY), 2024, routes, camps, langer points for proper surveillance and monitoring," Rai said in Lok Sabha. He said that drone surveillance is put in place at sensitive locations and specialised quick-action teams have been placed at appropriate and sensitive locations. Corridor protection is provided by the Army. Senior-level officers are deployed at Pahalgam/ Baltal to monitor the arrangements of SANJY, 2024. Senior level officers are supervising the Yatra by taking periodical reviews of SANJY," he said. MoS Rai said that 577 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Assam Rifles (AR) personnel died due to heart attacks and illness in Naxal affected area during the last five years between 2019 to 2023. (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday said that pilgrims will be able to visit the Kedarnath temple via helicopter from Wednesday, August 7. "Heli Seva of Kedarnath Dham will begin tomorrow and the passengers will get a 25 per cent discount for the same," he said. While giving details about the rescue operation he said the operation is now over and now our focus is to restore the road and other connectivity he added that alternate routes will be created for the people. Many pilgrims and tourists were stranded on the Sonprayag-Kedarnath road as heavy rains lashed the state. "The disaster has caused a lot of loss of life and property in the state. Road connectivity has been disrupted at 29 places and landslides have taken place too. District Administration, NDRF, SDRF, local police and other people have come out to help us recover from this situation. The rescue operation is now over. Our focus is to restore the road and other connectivity. We will make some new helipads too. Alternate routes will be created for the people," he said. "I want to thank PM Modi and Union HM Amit Shah for helping us in these difficult times," Dhami said. Earlier today, Chief Minister Dhami Dehradun conducted an aerial survey of the areas affected by heavy rains/disasters in Rudraprayag district and a ground inspection of the areas affected by heavy rains/disasters in Sonprayag. "During this time, I also took detailed information about the work being done to repair the roads and bridges damaged by the disaster. Our government is working rapidly to make the Shri Kedarnath Yatra route operational as before as soon as possible," the CM posted on X. The Kedarnath temple is one of the most revered temples in the country dedicated to Lord Shiva and people from across the country visit the temple during the six months when the temple is open. Every year, thousands of devotees visit Kedarnath to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. (ANI) Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) urged the central government on Tuesday to take every possible step for the safety of minorities in Bangladesh amid the ongoing unrest. During a press conference on Tuesday, VHP International President Alok Kumar said that in Bangladesh, the houses, shops, offices, business establishments of Hindus and women, children and even the centres of their belief, faith and worship such as temples and Gurudwaras are not safe. It can be said that the condition of the oppressed minorities there is going from bad to worse. He said that in such a worrying situation it is the responsibility of the world community to take effective action for the safety of minorities and the protection of human rights in Bangladesh. "India cannot turn a blind eye to this situation. Bharat has traditionally helped oppressed communities across the world. Vishva Hindu Parishad urges the Government of Bharat to take every possible step for the safety of minorities in Bangladesh," Alok Kumar said. "Our neighbour Bangladesh is trapped in a strange uncertainty, violence and anarchy. After the resignation of the Hasina government and her leaving the country, the process of formation of an interim government is going on. In this hour of crisis, Bharat stands firmly with the entire society of Bangladesh as a friend," he added. He further highlighted that in the recent past, religious places, business establishments and houses of Hindus, Sikhs and other minorities have also been rampaged in Bangladesh. Till last night, 22 houses in the Panchgarh district alone, 20 houses in Jhenaidah and 22 shops in Jessore became targets of fundamentalists and in many districts, even crematoriums were vandalised. Temples and Gurudwaras have also been vandalised, he added. Alok Kumar said that there is hardly any district left in Bangladesh which has not become a target of their violence and terror. It is appropriate to point out that Hindus, who were once 32 per cent in Bangladesh, are now less than 8 per cent and they too are victims of continuous Jihadi persecution, he said during the press conference. "It is possible that taking advantage of this situation, a big attempt may be made to orchestrate infiltration into the Bharatiya territory through the 4,096-kilometre-long (2,545 mi) Indo-Bangladesh border. We have to be extremely cautious about this. Therefore, our security forces must keep strict 24x7 vigil on the borders and not allow any kind of infiltration," he said. The VHP President expressed that democracy and secular government be re-established in Bangladesh as soon as possible. The society there should get human rights and there should be no hindrance in the continuous economic progress of Bangladesh. The society and government of Bharat will continue to support Bangladesh in this matter, he added. The political situation in Bangladesh remains volatile following Sheikh Hasina's resignation amid escalating protests. These demonstrations, largely driven by students demanding an end to the quota system for government jobs, have evolved into broader anti-government protests. Recent clashes in Dhaka have resulted in at least 135 fatalities, including 14 police officers, with hundreds more injured, according to local media outlets. Following her resignation, Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening. It is unclear whether she will stay in Delhi or travel to another location, with some reports suggesting she might proceed to London. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Tuesday assured that it has ordered the listing of a plea challenging the verdict of the Bombay High Court,, which had upheld a decision of a Mumbai college to impose a ban on wearing of 'hijab', 'burqa' and 'naqab' inside the campus. Taking note of the submissiom seeking urgent listing of the appeal, a bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra said it would give the hearing date after the matter was mentioned for an early hearing. "Yes, we will give a date in this case and hear it," said the bench. The order of the High Court was challenged in the apex court. In June, the Bombay High Court dismissed the plea filed by a group of girl students challenging the ban imposed by a college in Mumbai on wearing a hijab, niqab, burkha, stole, caps or any kind of badge in the classroom. It had said that it was not inclined to interfere in the decisions of the college administration. The students were from Chembur Trombay Education Society's NG Acharya and DK Marathe College. The second and third years of B.Sc. and B.Sc. (Computer Science) programmes claimed that the new dress code violated their fundamental rights to privacy, dignity, and religious freedom. The college had told the High Court that the ban applies to all religious symbols and is not targeted at Muslims. The High Court's order stated, "We are satisfied that the instructions issued by the college under which a dress code has been prescribed for its students do not suffer from any infirmity so as to violate the provisions of Article 19(1)(a) and Article 25 of the Constitution of India. The object behind issuing the same is that the dress of a student should not reveal his/her religion, which is a step towards ensuring that the students focus on gaining knowledge and education, which is in their greater interest." (ANI) The Delhi High Court on Tuesday expressed strong dissatisfaction with the functioning of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and its officials concerning a tragic incident in East Delhi's Ghazipur area where a mother and child died after falling into an uncovered drain. The court suggested that the case might warrant a recommendation to the government to dissolve the MCD due to ongoing issues and inefficiencies in its operations. Acting Chief Justice Manmohan has stated that there has been criminal negligence by the civic authorities in the case and emphasized that they must be held accountable and booked for their actions. The Court instructed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to submit a fresh status report, complete with photographs, within a week. The court has also ordered both the Delhi Police and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to file status reports regarding the matter. This directive aims to provide a comprehensive update on the situation from all relevant authorities involved. The Deputy Commissioner of Shahdara South Zone, who was present, assured the court that the problematic drain would be cleaned and the waste removed immediately. The court also made clear that it cannot yet determine whether the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) or the MCD is liable, leaving that decision to the police's investigation. Earlier today, the Delhi High Court bench, led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, expressed serious concern over the incident where a woman and child died after falling into a waterlogged drain in Ghazipur. The court criticized the civic agencies for their negligence and described the situation as indicative of broader issues with civic management. The DDA has stated that the body was found near their drain, but the area where the incident occurred falls under the jurisdiction of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). The plea also sought accountability from the contractor responsible for the drain and requested a comprehensive audit of ongoing drain construction projects, including flood mitigation measures. The petitioner Jhunnu Lal Srivastava also directed the respondents to frame and adopt policies to address and mitigate the mayhem of flood-like situations in Delhi for rainfall and further to cover all open drains in Delhi with immediate effect with proper signage educating the common public to stay away from the drains. A woman and her child drowned after falling into a waterlogged drain in the Ghazipur area of East Delhi following heavy rainfall in the national capital on July 31. The deceased were identified as Tanuja (22) and her child, Priyansh (3), residents of Prakash Nagar Khoda Colony, Ghaziabad. The plea alleged that DDA has acted in blatant violation of its own circular No. 135 dated February 26, 1986, wherein it was directed to all Engineers to strictly ensure that there should not be any gap on deep covered drains and no manhole should be left uncovered in order to avoid any mishap or accident. The lack of a comprehensive flood management policy and the presence of uncovered drains violate the fundamental right to the health and safety of Delhi's residents. The Respondents despite frequent fatalities due to waterlogging and clogged drains have failed to take corrective steps which are leading to further loss of lives, the plea stated. (ANI) Coming hard on the Centre over political unrest in Bangladesh, Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge said on Tuesday that it is a complete failure of External Affairs Policy. "This is a complete failure of the External Affairs Policy. We used to be the big brother of the region, where each country would look up to India for help if there was any turmoil. Unfortunately, the Chinese influence is growing and it is a severe failure of the policies of the Modi Government," he said. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that there are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals of which about 9000 are students while ensuring the country that the government is in close contact with the Indian community in Dhaka. Jaishankar informed the Lok Sabha that the bulk of the students returned to India in July. "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there of which about 9000 are students. The bulk of the students returned in July," he said. He also said that Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina requested approval from India to come at very short notice and she arrived on the evening of Monday. "On August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he said. Meanwhile, President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday, announced the dissolution of the country's parliament to make way for the formation of an interim administration, Dhaka Tribune reported. Based on the decision from a meeting of President Shahabuddin with the heads of the three armed forces, leaders of various political parties, representatives of civil society, and leaders of the Students Against Discrimination movement, the national parliament was dissolved, a press release from the president's office stated. It further said that Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Khaleda Zia has been released from jail. The statement said that the process of releasing those detained in the student movement and various cases from July 1 to August 5 has begun, with many already being freed. The protests, led majorly by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests. (ANI) A lawsuit has been filed on behalf of Nephtali De Leon over his firing from his post as the city's poet laureate in 2023. Kin Man Hui/Staff photographer Former San Antonio poet laureate Nephtali De Leon is suing the city and the head of its Department of Arts & Culture over his firing last August. De Leon was four months into his term when he was removed from the post following a dispute over a word he included in a poem he posted to his Facebook page on Aug. 1, 2023. Comments on the post indicated the word, a Chicano term for black, had an offensive connotation for some readers. The suit, filed in San Antonio federal court on Friday, alleges the city violated De Leons First Amendment rights when it removed him from the post. It also alleges breach of contract and defamation. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Among other things, the suit asks for the $7,000 that he would have received from the city had he been able to complete his three-year term, damages for defamation, attorneys fees and $1 for constitutional violations. It also seeks an injunction to prevent the city from keeping De Leon from returning to the post if he were to be nominated and selected in the future. The suit also asks for the retraction of a statement that was sent to the media in the wake of his firing. In the statement, the city said De Leon had been terminated because he posted a poem contrary to the Citys values and the role of City Poet Laureate, which, according to the statement, include denouncing racism among other oppressive barriers. That statement, the lawsuit states, rapidly immersed Mr. De Leon in a nightmarish media frenzy, in which countless news and media outlets reported on the termination of San Antonios former poet laureate for his use of a racial slur. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The New Civil Liberties Alliance filed the lawsuit on De Leons behalf. The alliance is a nonprofit civil rights group founded in 2017 to, in its words, protect constitutional freedoms from violations by the administrative state. It was one of the organizations representing the winning side in the recent Supreme Court case that overturned the Chevron decision, which had deferred to federal agencies to interpret laws related to their work. Attorneys with the group see De Leons firing as a free speech case with larger implications. Its indicative of a trend in the country where people are being canceled or reputations destroyed or losing jobs for relatively innocent statements or language used, attorney Jenin Younes said. In this case, Mr. De Leon had no knowledge or belief that using this term was offensive in any way. We thought it was important to bring a case that addressed this broader trend. City officials said they had not yet been served with the lawsuit. Advertisement Article continues below this ad As previously stated, the City of San Antonios Department of Arts & Culture is committed to championing policies and practices that empower a just, inclusive and equitable city which aligns with the City of San Antonios mission statement and core values, they said in a statement. The City will vigorously defend these policies and practices in court. The filing requests a jury trial. De Leons lawyers hope he will be given a chance to tell his story and restore his reputation, attorney Casey Norman said. To this day, he looks up his name on Google and it still says, former poet laureate fired for using racial slur, Norman said. After decades of work in the literature community, trying to uplift people and unify people, he was devastated after this happened, and to see the damage still being done. The poem at the center of the controversy marked the death of author and educator Roberto Cintli Rodriguez. It included a term De Leon pulled from Calo, a Chicano language he often incorporates into his work. How it started: Citys poet laureate removed from post Advertisement Article continues below this ad The purported racial slur which the City felt justified the obliteration of Mr. De Leons role in San Antonio and reputation throughout the country was the word mayate, which, in Calo, can be used to refer to June bugs, the color black, or to Black people, the suit states. Mr. De Leon did not post the poem in his capacity as Poet Laureate, but in his individual capacity, to celebrate the life of a friend and celebrated figure within the Chicano community whom Mr. De Leon viewed as a unifying force among people of all backgrounds and races. The lawsuit defines Calo as a dynamic code-switching dialect, which combines English, Spanish, ancient Nahuatl, and Spanish Romani. A little more than a week after the social-media debate began, De Leon posted a response to his page, apologizing to anyone he had offended and explaining his use of the term on various grounds, including that the Chicano literary vocabulary is young and still evolving. As the sometimes heated discussion continued, two letters were sent to the city about the controversy, urging strong action. The letters were attributed to former poets laureate, poets and educators. Some whose names were included as signatories later said they had not agreed to the use of their names. After the city received the letters, the decision was made to terminate De Leons contract. The decision was made by the citys Department of Arts & Culture, which is led by Krystal Jones, in consultation with the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Department. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Mayor Ron Nirenberg referred to the letters in a statement supporting the citys action. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said on Tuesday that the two occasions of the year, Independence Day and Republic Day, are greater than all the festivals in the country. He also requested the people to not only hoist the flag on August 15, i.e. Independence day but also hoist the tricolour in every house from August 9 and awaken the society. "Two occasions of the year, Independence Day and Republic Day, are greater than all our festivals. In such a situation, with their dignity and pride pulsating with the government, the party has also come up with a beautiful idea that we will not only hoist the flag on August 15 but also the people of our Mandals will hoist tricolour houses from August 9 and will awaken the entire society," CM Yadav said while addressing at party office in Bhopal on Tuesday. CM also highlighted that if one looked at the countries around India that got independence with it or after, what happened to the condition of democracy in those countries? "If we look at the incidents of two days ago in Bangladesh or we see the condition of Pakistan and Sri Lanka, it happened to them because there was a lack of such nationalist parties to awaken this type of consciousness in their society and they suffered. We are proud of ourselves for the way the government was formed in the centre in 2014 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Now, with the third term of PM Modi, it has equalled the record of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru's government," he said. "We all know that when Nehru's government was formed, democracy was in its initial phase and today democracy has matured, therefore we should be more concerned about standing for it with the whole society," he added. He further emphasised about the police band through which the Independence day would be celebrated at all the 55 district headquarters in the state on coming August 15. "At the time of independence, the states had their own police bands but with the passage of time, when the district police force was formed, those posts were not created and gradually that band ended. We said that our biggest occasions, August 15 and January 26, should be celebrated with joy and with government dignity. I am happy that our government had decided that till August 15, there would be a police band in every district. I say with joy that our own police band has reached every district in the state. It is a matter of good fortune for all of us that we will celebrate August 15 with joy," he added. CM also highlighted the programs scheduled to be held at various locations in the state on August 10 in view of the upcoming Rakhi festival. "The auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan is on August 19, we have decided that it should not be celebrated on one day, we should celebrate it with the entire society. Therefore, on August 10 programs will be organised simultaneously at 25 thousand places in the state. During this, Rs 1500 will be sent to Laldli Behnas with a single click," CM Yadav said. (ANI) The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) in Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday accused the state government of evading its responsibilities and blaming the Union government for its shortcomings during the recent monsoon disaster. A cloudburst that occurred on Thursday, August 1, wreaked havoc in various parts of the state, leading to significant loss of life and property. Relief and rescue operations are ongoing, but the BJP claims the state government was unprepared for the disaster and has failed to provide timely assistance to affected citizens. The Himachal BJP spokesperson and MLA Randhir Sharma took a strong stance against the current Congress government. Speaking to ANI, Sharma said, "The government is trying to blame the Union government for their wrong deeds and is trying to avoid their responsibilities. There has been a huge loss of water supply and electricity supply in the region. The BJP is with the people of the state; we are trying to support the government. Our leaders, including Jai Ram Thakur ji, appeal to the state government to speed up relief and restoration efforts. We need to check and find out the reasons, get prepared for disaster, and do scientific development." Sharma further criticised the state government for not sending a disaster report to the Union government, which could have facilitated help from the centre. "The Chief Minister is playing politics in the name of disaster. The state government has not sent any report of disaster to the Union government. They would get help from the centre, but they are trying to blame the Union government for their wrongdoing and evade their responsibilities," Sharma added. On the suspension of the Himcare health scheme from private hospitals, Sharma said the government has failed to fulfil its promises to the people. "To stop the Himcare scheme is not good. This government has failed to fulfil their guarantees. They have closed over 1,000 institutions and now have stopped this important scheme. If you feel any irregularities are there, you should enquire, but stopping a scheme of public health is not good," he said. Sharma emphasised that the BJP stands with the state government during this crisis and highlighted the active support provided by BJP state president Rajiv Bindal, former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur, and other BJP leaders to the disaster-affected people, providing first aid, and offering consolation. Sharma expressed that while the BJP does not want to politicise the disaster, the state government's slow response is concerning. "The current Congress government is continuously making anti-people decisions. They promised 300 units of free electricity but even took away the existing 125 units of free electricity from the people. Under the Himcare scheme, 149 private hospitals were registered following the rules and procedures. If private hospitals have done anything wrong, then the government should investigate and punish the culprits. It is not easy for every patient to reach a government hospital, and this facility was given to private hospitals for a reason. The state government should remove the irregularities and reinstate the Himcare scheme for private hospitals," Sharma urged. (ANI) Madhya Pradesh Congress leaders on Tuesday staged a protest in front of the office of Indore Municipal Corporation in connection with the drainage scam and other scams in the state. State Congress chief Jitu Patwari, former minister Sajjan Singh Verma, former Union Minister Arun Yadav and other Congress leaders and party workers participated in the protest. During the protest, the Congress also organised a gathering which several leaders including Patwari addressed. When the Congress workers along with state chief Patwari were heading to submit a memorandum to the Divisional Commissioner's Office, the police stopped them by barricading them on the way. During this, some party workers tried to climb over the barricade and the police used water cannons to stop them. Congress chief Patwari said, "There are scams of Rs 2000 crores and fake bills of Indore Municipal Corporation, if it is investigated properly then mayor-in-council (MIC) members of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will be in jail. The Congress party will complain the issue to Lokayukta and CBI." The congress party will not step back until the concerned corrupt people will be in jail, he added. While addressing the gathering during the protest, Patwari took a potshot at state cabinet minister Kailash Vijayvargiya saying the latter abducted the Congress candidate during Lok Sabha polls and made him withdraw nomination. "Kailash Vijayvargiya abducted the congress candidate and did not give a chance to people of Indore to exercise their franchise. The people of Indore trusted BJP a lot and voted to make a BJP-led municipal corporation five times. But the BJP-led municipal corporation deceived the public and committed the scam of Rs 2000 crores by making bills without letting the work be done," Patwari said. Taking a dig at the recent event about the mega plantation drive in Indore, the Congress leader said that Vijayvargiya had not been planting trees here but was shaking the roots of CM Mohan Yadav. Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (ADCP) Ram Sanehi Mishra said, "In view of the Congress protest in the city, we made arrangements to ensure that the general public should not face any problems during the protest. Barricades were put up for the same. But a few workers tried to jump the barricades, as a result of which water cannons were used." After taking the memorandum, everyone was dispersed peacefully and there was peace everywhere, he added. (ANI) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar along with other ministers of the state joined the Congress' 'Jan Andolan Yatra' bike rally in the Mandya district of Karnataka on Tuesday to expose the scams done by the previous BJP-led in Karnataka including irregularities of Rs 87 crore in the Bhovi corporation. Congress 'Jan Andolan Yatra' is to counter BJP padyatra highlighting the alleged MUDA (Mysuru Urban Development Authority) scam involving Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah's wife BM Parvathi. Reportedly, in the rally of 'Jan Andolan Yatra', Deputy CM DK Shivakumar played a video where opposition leaders including HD Kumaraswamy and BS Yediyurappa were scolding and making statements against each other. In response to the video, DK Shivakumar slammed the opposition leaders HD Kumaraswamy and BS Yediyurappa and said I wanted to show the public what they said about each other. On video showing previous statements made by opposition leaders including HD Kumaraswamy and BS Yediyurappa at Congress' 'Jan Andolan Yatra', Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar said, "They (BJP) think that we are saying it for a political reason...We showed what they had spoken. Kumaraswamy had said that he would see that the PM gives sanction to the Mekedatu Project within 5 minutes...I wanted to show the public what Yediyurappa spoke on Kumaraswamy, what Kumaraswamy spoke on BJP and the PM..." Notably, it is the fourth day of the BJP-JDS's Padayatra which started against the alleged illegal activities of the Congress-ruled government since they came to power in the state. JDS State Youth Unit President Nikhil Kumaraswamy said that the JDS and BJP have started this padayatra regarding the alleged MUDA scam and the corruption that has taken place in Valmiki for the developmental works. Speaking with ANI, he said, "Today, we have all started this padayatra regarding the alleged MUDA scam and the corruption that has taken place in Valmiki for the developmental works. Karnataka CM himself has accepted on the floor that Rs. 89 crore has been wrongly utilised." Further, he stated that today marks the fourth day of the padayatra, which will come to an end on Saturday. "Today, we are entering the fourth day of the padayatra, and we will be ending it on Saturday in Neerghata. On Saturday, we will hold a big rally and a big 'Samavesha' in Mysore. Congress is trying to divert this issue because the state is aware of the MUDA scam and Valmiki corruption that have taken place and they cannot get out of them. However, that is wrong, everyone in Karnataka is very smart," he said. (ANI) The exercise will be reviewed by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi during his visit planned this week, defence officials told ANI. The exercise will help the Indian Army validate the new concepts and technology infusion in modern-day warfighting, they said. The Strike Corps has been attached to the Northern Command in recent years and has been working towards developing new warfighting concepts required in the high latitude areas. India and China have been engaged in a military standoff for over four years and multiple rounds of talks at military as well as political levels have not yielded much results in ending the standoff. The Indian Army has deployed over 500 tanks and armoured fighting vehicles in the area since 2020 and has built infrastructure at a very fast pace there. The Indian side has deployed over 50,000 troops to match the Chinese deployments across the Line of Actual Control to prevent any further attempts by the Chinese to alter the status quo there. India has pushed for large-scale infrastructure development for troops as well as civilians in the area to help them stay there comfortably in the fight against harsh winters there. (ANI) As Exercise Tarang Shakti 2024 commenced on Tuesday in Tamil Nadu's Sulur, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari said that it's a huge achievement for India to organize an exercise of such scale and Air Force and all participants have lived up to the challenge. "It is a huge feather in our cap that we have been able to organise an exercise of such a huge scale in India. We have been carrying out bilateral exercises with many countries over the years and this is the first time we are doing a multilateral exercise of this scale. It's a challenge and the Air Force and all participants have lived up to the challenge," Chaudhari said. Further, on being asked why Sulur was selected as the venue of the multilateral exercise, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari said, "Complexity is a relative term. The very fact that we have six different types of IAF aircraft flying alongside the two Eurofighter Typhoons and Rafale from the visiting countries. We have also simulated an electronic warfare environment where we simulate SAGWs, radars, air-defence, and operating in some sort of network environment against multiple oppositions in every mission. The whole idea is to be able to operate without a common data link with the visiting Air Forces, that itself is a complex exercise. The main focus will be on large force engagements." A German Air Force A-400M transport aircraft at Indian Air Force station Palam also took part in India's first multinational exercise Tarang Shakti being held in India at Sulur and Jodhpur in two phases. Speaking on the event, the German Ambassador to India Dr Philipp Ackermann said that they are happy to join the Indian Air Force in its motto of 'Touch the Sky with Glory'. "This is the first time the German Air Force flies with the Indian Air Force in India. For us it's the first but not the last and we will be conducting exercises in the future. We have a frigate in October coming to Goa. This shows our growing engagement in the region and our growing strategic military partnership with the Republic of India and we are proud of it," he said. German Air Force Chief Lt Gen Ingo Gerhartz said, "I flew in today and it was great. The IAF aircraft came up and intercepted us. I am looking forward to flying this exercise." The exercise is being conducted in two phases, first in Tamil Nadu's Sulur and second in Rajasthan's Jodhpur, which aim to showcase India's defence prowess and provide a platform for participating militaries to foster coordination. (ANI) Amid ongoing unrest in Bangladesh, Union Minister of State for Railways and Food Processing expressed concern over attacks on religious places in Bangladesh and sought the protection of Sikh Gurdwaras located in Dhaka and Hindu temples in the country. Bittu wrote an official letter to the External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and urged him to take up with the Army authorities in Bangladesh to protect two historical Sikh shrines, Gurdwara Nanak Shahi and Gurdwara Sangat Tola situated in Dhaka. He said that Guru Nanak Dev ji and Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib had visited Dhaka and these Gurdwaras were built in their memory. Bittu in his letter said that the population of Sikhs in Bangladesh is very small and certain anti-India elements were indulging in rampage of religious places. He said that the Sikh community was worried about the safety of Sikh shrines. He assured the Sikh community in Bangladesh and in India that the Indian Government would take steps to protect the Sikh shrines. Meanwhile, S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that there are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals of which about 9000 are students while ensuring the country that the government is in close contact with the Indian community in Dhaka. Jaishankar informed the Lok Sabha that the bulk of the students returned to India in July. "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there of which about 9000 are students. The bulk of the students returned in July," he said. He also said that Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina requested approval from India to come at very short notice and she arrived on the evening of Monday. "On August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he said. The External Affairs Minister also mentioned that the government is monitoring the situation with regard to the minorities living in Bangladesh. "Since the election in January 2024, there has been considerable tensions, deep divides and growing polarization in Bangladesh politics and this underlying foundation aggravated a student agitation that started in June this year," he said. "There was growing violence including attacks on public buildings and violence continued in July. We counselled restraint and urged the situation be resolved by dialogue, Jaishankar said in his statement in Rajya Sabha. (ANI) Governor of Himachal Pradesh Shiv Pratap Shukla on Tuesday participated in a plantation drive in the Glen forest area of Shimla city and appealed to the people to preserve and protect the environment. "I would like to appeal to the people in Himachal Pradesh they should come forward for plantation and plant trees in open lands. The deep forests of Himachal Pradesh are popular across Asia. The forest department works hard to keep the forests green, people should also follow them. The Prime Minister of India has also appealed to everyone to plant a tree in the name of mother. People should be encouraged to do plantation," he said. "There is a target of 40 crore tree plantations in 2024 and by 2025 it will reach to 80 crores. I think this would be fulfilled only if people plant trees and take care of them like their own children. Our religious literature says that a tree is equal to ten sons. It keeps the environment protected and preserved," the governor added. Governor Shukla also appealed to the people to help the victims of flood-hit areas in the state. "In Himachal Pradesh, we have 336 square kilometres of green cover, it is only 30 per cent which is barren and empty and that should be completed with plantation. Today the people from the forest department and school children are part of this campaign. I would like to congratulate you and wish you good luck in making Himachal a green state," he said. "In the flood-hit region, the government is helping the victims. I would appeal to the people to help the affected people who are in need considering them as their own families. I would speak to the government and would visit the affected areas," Shukla added. One of the school students, Jyoti said, "We want to make people aware about the plantation that it is very important for the environment. The Governor has also come here and we have come for plantation. The trees should not be cut and plants and trees are important for the environment." Pawan Kumar Chauhan, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Shimla Urban, said that it is important for everyone to come forward for environmental preservation. He said that it is the need of the hour that the building norms should be restricted and strict. "The governor has encouraged us. It is important to make people aware of plantations. Students and people from rural areas have also come to be part of this, it is also important to save the forests from fire. We have directed the department to save these plants during the forest fire. We shall have to involve new engineering development models for construction in the region, muck throwing in the forests is also a big challenge for us," Chauhan said. (ANI) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday gave a clarion call to the people to transform plantation drives into a mass movement to check environmental pollution and enhance the green cover of the state. Addressing the gathering during a state-level function to mark Van Mahotsav in Hoshiarpur today, Mann said that this was a unique initiative aimed at enhancing the green cover across the state. Quoting the verse 'Pawan Guru, Paani Pitaah, Mata Dharat Mahat' from Gurbani, Mann said that the great Gurus have equated air (pawan) with the teacher, water (paani) with father and land (dharat) with the mother and during those times, there were no industrial units that were polluting the environment but it was the farsightedness of the great Gurus that aimed at checking the pollution. Mann said that now the time has come when they must imbibe the teachings of the Gurbani in their lives to restore the pristine glory of the state by resolving to save the environment of the state. He said that the state government would leave no stone unturned for that noble cause and he added that the people of the state should also support the state government by planting more and more trees. Mann said that it was the need of the hour to transform the plantation drive into a mass movement to benefit the people. He also stated that Punjab was the first state in the country to launch the carbon credit scheme to preserve the environment and check global warming and that this project had been launched in the state with the help of TERI as a pilot project in which 3686 farmers from across the state will be disbursed Rs 45 crore in four installments. Mann also distributed cheques worth Rs 1.75 crore to 818 farmers in the Hoshiarpur district as the first installment of this ambitious scheme. He said these funds would be transferred to the farmers through the Direct Benefit Scheme and envisioned that this scheme would act as a pivotal for reducing the effects of greenhouse gases, adding that this is based on the 'Polluter Pays Principle' where polluters compensate the organisations and farmers working to reduce carbon emissions. Mann said that the saplings planted by farmers play a pivotal role in reducing environmental pollution so they can be eligible beneficiaries of this scheme. He said that owing to this, they had witnessed a lot of natural fury across the country, adding that the only solution for this was to plant more and more trees. Mann advised the farmers that every food grower who was getting free power must plant at least four trees on his farms and if needed, that would also come in the form of a law to save the coming generations. Mann further stated that during the time he assumed office, only 21 per cent of canal water had been used. However, he said that it was a matter of great pride and satisfaction that today 72 per cent of the canal water is being used for irrigation purposes. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the New Kandi Canal was being constructed, which is likely to benefit 11,000 acres of land, and also added that a 206 MW dam was also being established at Dhar Kalan. He said that the state government had taken exemplary initiatives for the well-being of the state and its people and for the first time in the post-independence era, his government has started the work for the construction of the Malwa Canal in the state, adding that it is on record that none of the previous governments of the state had paid heed to this necessity of the state. Mann further said that the 150-kilometre-long new canal will usher in a new era of unprecedented progress and prosperity in the state, especially in the Malwa region, adding that the state government will spend around Rs 2300 crore on this prestigious project that will cater to the irrigational needs of nearly two lakh acres of fertile land in the state. Training his guns against Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal, Mann said that the former Deputy Chief Minister is trying to mislead the people through his political gimmicks and quipped that the scion of the Badal family is now seeking pardon for his actions but he should remember that an apology might be given for the misdeeds but his sins were unpardonable. Mann said that the Badal family had committed heinous sins against the state and its people that could never be forgiven. He said that the state government has been gathering evidence about the sacrilege incident, adding that the real culprit of this crime will be behind bars soon. He also went against the rebel Akali leadership and said that these leaders are now shedding crocodile tears over the issue, whereas they were part of the Badal family during their sins. Mann said that these leaders cannot absolve them of their sins merely by issuing statements now. He said that gone were the days when the government used to run from the offices in Chandigarh and for saving time, money, and energy of the people, the sovereign masters of the state, now the government is being run from the villages and towns. He said that the state government had already launched its flagship scheme, Sarkar Tuhaade Dwaar, under which village-level camps are being organised to offer citizen-centric services to people at their doorsteps. Mann said that more such pro-people initiatives would be taken in the coming days for the welfare of people. Cabinet Ministers Bram Shanker Jimpa and Lal Chand Kataruchak, Lok Sabha MP Raj Kumar Chabbewal and others were also present at the occasion. (ANI) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Tuesday announced that the state government will celebrate Independence Day, Raksha Bandha and Krishna Janmashtami in the state. In the Raksha Bandhan celebrations, the Madhya Pradesh government announced to give Rs 200 as "shagun" to all beneficiaries of Ladli Behna Yojana On the arrangements of Raksha Bandhan, Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav said, "As Raksha Bandhan is on August 19, we have decided that it will be celebrated from August 10, at 25,000 places in all panchayats, wards and districts, as it is also a step towards women empowerment. On this occasion, the Madhya Pradesh government will transfer the additional Rs 200 as "shagun" in accounts of beneficiaries of Ladli Behna Yojana, along with the Rs 1200." This announcement came while CM Yadav was addressing a BJP meeting in the party office in Bhopal. Furthermore, CM Yadav announced the establishment of "police bands" all over the 55 districts of the state, who will participate in the Independence Day parade. Informing about the constitution of police bands, Yadav said, "By 15th August, police bands will be ready in every district...The police bands will participate in the parade on the 15th August and 26th January...On 12, 13 and 14, flag hoisting will be held at the Martyr Memorial along with the police band at the district level." Adding that Independence Day and Republic Day holds greater significance in the country, Yadav said, "The two festivals of Republic Day and Independence Day carry greater significance than the other festivals, it has more than all other festivals. With tricolour in hand, we will awaken the society." Citing the Bangladesh crisis, Yadav said, "The importance of celebrating Independence Day or Republic is also increased when we look at the condition of the democracies of our neighbouring countries, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, whether they become independent earlier or later. What has happened in Bangladesh and what had happened in Pakistan earlier. This happened in these nations because there was lack of nationalists and national parties in those countries who can awaken the feeling of nationalism in citizens and raise awareness among the society." He further emphasised, "We are proud that we have PM Modi who won the elections with majority in 2014 and in 2024 also, he won for the third historic term. During the tenure of Nehru, democracy was in its earliest stages and today during the tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, democracy is stable. As a result, we should stand with the society and Madhya Pradesh should contribute effectively as BJP has won all 29 Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh..." CM Yadav also announced that the state will officially celebrate the Krishna Janmashtami all over the state and said, "As Mathura and Vrindavan is an important part in the life of Lord Shree Krishna, Madhya Pradesh is also important. There are lots of places in Madhya Pradesh, which are important from a point of view of Shree Krishna and hence we have decided to celebrate the Shree Krishna Janmashtami too in the state." (ANI) Annasofia Scheve covers trending news for the Express-News. She can be reached at Annasofia.Scheve@express-news.net. Annasofia has bachelor's degrees in journalism and political science from the University of Missouri. She is an Ohio native, and wrote for Cincinnati Magazine and the Cincinnati Enquirer before joining the Express-News in 2023. The Supreme Court has remarked that the dumping of plastic is causing serious environmental degradation and also impacting aquatic life in the river banks and the water bodies in the country. A bench of justices Hrishikesh Roy and SVN Bhatti made these remarks recently while dealing with the matter relating to alleged illegal construction and unauthorized encroachment in and around the areas adjacent to the river Ganga in Patna City. The court noted that in the course of deliberation in this matter, it came to light that there is widespread use of plastic in the areas that are to be kept free from such pollution potential products. "The dumping of plastic is causing serious environmental degradation and also impacting aquatic life in the river banks and the water bodies in the country," the court said. "Unless a concerted effort is made by the responsible authorities with people's cooperation, irrespective of the efforts to target illegal/unauthorized constructions, the desired improvement of the quality of the water in river Ganga/all other rivers and water bodies in the country will remain illusory," the court said. The court has sought an affidavit from the Centre in four weeks on the issues raised in the appeal. The response should also take into account the environmental concerns raised in the present order, the court said. The court was hearing an appeal arising from an NGT Order that disposed of the Original Application of Ashok Kumar Sinha, a Patna resident, in 2020, raising massive illegal constructions of colonies, setting up of brick kilns and other structures, including, a 1.5 km road by the Bihar government itself, on the Eco fragile floodplains of Ganga in Patna, which constitutes one of the richest Dolphins habitat in the subcontinent. Further, the groundwater of the areas adjacent to the Ganga River in Patna was heavily laced with Arsenic and therefore, the purity and ecological integrity of Ganga becomes all the more pressing for sustaining the 5.5 lacs population of Patna. The Appeal was filed, agitating complete violation of the River Ganga (Rejuvenation, Protection & Management) Authorities Order, 2016, under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Arguing for the Appellant, Akash Vashishtha, Advocate told the court that the areas upstream and downstream of the stretch between Nauzer Ghat to Nurpur Ghat comprised one of the richest Dolphins habitats which was being threatened with these illegal constructions on the Ganga riverbed and floodplains. The NMCG has written to all Ganga basin states to identify illegal constructions on their floodplains and remove such obstructions and demarcate such floodplains. That status needs to be known advocate Vashishtha submitted. Advocate Azmat Hayat Amanullah appeared for the State of Bihar and Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati appeared for the Union of India and National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG).(ANI) Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday firmly refuted allegations that the Preamble of the Indian Constitution has been removed from NCERT textbooks. In a tweet, Pradhan stated that these claims have no basis and emphasized that, under the National Education Policy (NEP), the NCERT has given due importance to various aspects of the Indian Constitution, including the Preamble, Fundamental Duties, Fundamental Rights, and the National Anthem. Pradhan criticized those spreading misinformation about the Indian education system, accusing them of playing with the future of children. He argued that the Congress party, inspired by Macaulay's ideology, has always been antagonistic towards India's development and education system. He asserted that the Congress' argument that only the Preamble reflects constitutional values exposes their limited understanding of the Constitution. "The allegations of removing the Preamble of the Constitution from NCERT textbooks have no basis. For the first time under the National Education Policy, NCERT has given due importance and respect to various aspects of the Indian Constitution - Preamble, Fundamental Duties, Fundamental Rights, National Anthem - in the textbooks...Those who are playing with the future of children and calling the Indian education system rubbish should try to know the truth before spreading lies. Inspired by Macaulay's ideology, Congress has always hated India's development and education system. The argument that only the Preamble of the Constitution reflects constitutional values exposes Congress' understanding of the Constitution. Congress's cup of sins is full and those who are roaming around these days as 'fake Constitution lovers' and waving copies of the Constitution, their ancestors had repeatedly killed the basic spirit of the Constitution. If there is even a little shame and remorse left in the Congress Party, then it should first understand the Constitution, constitutional values and NEP and stop doing petty politics in the name of the children of the country," Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan wrote in a social media post on X.Professor Ranjana Arora, Head of the Department of Curriculum Studies and Development at NCERT through a social media post on X said that the understanding that "only the Preamble reflects the Constitution and Constitutional Values is flawed and narrow". "The allegations regarding the removal of the Preamble from the NCERT textbooks do not have a sound basis. For the first time, NCERT is giving great importance to various facets of the Indian Constitution- the Preamble, Fundamental Duties, Fundamental Rights and the National Anthem. All these are being placed in various textbooks of various stages. The understanding that only the Preamble reflects the Constitution and Constitutional Values is flawed and narrow. Why should children not acquire Constitutional Values from Fundamental Duties, Fundamental Rights and National Anthem along with Preamble? We give equal importance to all of these for the holistic development of children following the vision of NEP - 2020," Professor Ranjana Arora, Head of the Department of Curriculum Studies and Development at NCERT wrote in a post on X.The clarification from the educational body comes amid claims by the opposition of the preamble being omitted from NCERT textbooks. (ANI) Telangana BJP MLA Raja Singh wrote a letter to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday stating that many ancient Hindu temples are being taken over by people of other religions in Andhra Pradesh and urged him to take strict action against such encroachments. In his letter to Naidu, the BJP MLA from Goshamahal stated six key points of consideration and requested the deployment of a committee to regulate activities at Hindu temples in Andhra Pradesh. "I humbly request the formation of a dedicated committee to oversee and regulate activities at all prominent Hindu temples in Andhra Pradesh. This committee should ensure that only individuals and associations belonging to the Hindu religion are permitted to conduct business or any activities within the temple premises," he said in the letter. He also urged for the prohibition of non-Hindu people or associations from being part of the business activities of the temple. "Strictly prohibit any persons of other religions or their associations from running businesses or performing activities in and around the temples. This measure is crucial to maintain the religious sanctity and cultural integrity of our sacred sites," he said. He also stated that he had personally witnessed individuals of other religions, especially Muslims, conducting business activities near temples and also claimed to have noticed Muslim vendors mixing cow meat with flowers intended for Lord Shiva. Later, this act was detected and stopped by the temple of the priests, he said. "As a frequent visitor to the Sri Saila Devasthanam, I have personally witnessed individuals of other religions, specifically Muslims, conducting business activities near the temple. An alarming incident came to my notice where Muslim vendors were found mixing cow meat with flowers intended for offering to Lord Shiva. This sacrilegious act was fortunately detected and stopped by the temple priests," he mentioned. In the end, he urged strict actions against such individuals and groups engaging in activities that disrespect or harm the religious sentiments of Hindu devotees and to protect the sanctity of Hindu temples in Andhra Pradesh. "Immediate and strict actions should be taken against any individual or group found engaging in activities that disrespect or harm the religious sentiments of Hindu devotees. Regular inspections and monitoring mechanisms should be implemented to ensure compliance with these regulations," he stated. (ANI) Yog Guru Baba Ramdev on Tuesday expressed concern regarding the situation in Bangladesh amid the ongoing unrest in the South Asian country. The Yog Guru also heaped praise on the opposition leaders who have come out in support of the government over its policy on the Bangladesh unrest. "There should be no cruelty or atrocity on Hindus in Bangladesh - be it the Hindus who are involved in trade there, or Hindu temples there, or Indians living there. For this, the entire country has to be united. I am happy to see that for the first time, the entire Opposition is with the Government and this indeed should be the policy of India. Otherwise, the manner in which Islamic radicalism is expanding across the world and the manner in which it has knocked at the neighbourhood of India, it can be dangerous for the country. This unity should continue even in the time to come. Those who want to divide the country in the name of reservation, caste, religious fanaticism - it is not right. So, India's politics should be focused on issues," Baba Ramdev said in a self made video. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that there are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals of which about 9000 are students while ensuring the country that the government is in close contact with the Indian community in Dhaka. Jaishankar informed the Lok Sabha that the bulk of the students returned to India in July. "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there of which about 9000 are students. The bulk of the students returned in July," he said. He also said that Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina requested approval from India to come at very short notice and she arrived on the evening of Monday. "On August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he said. (ANI) Reacting to the Bangladesh political crisis, Janata Dal-United (JDU) spokesperson on Tuesday said that the situation in Bangladesh is worrying for India as power has gone into the "hands of dangerous people". Speaking with ANI, JD(U)leader KC Tyagi says, "The situation in Bangladesh is worrying for India. Although, the democracy of India is so strong, but the way protests intensified in Bangladesh, the power went into the hands of dangerous people there." On the opposition's question, KC Tyagi said, "Opposition's questions are baseless, as India's democracy is stronger than Pakistan, Afghanistan, Myanmar and Bangladesh." Amid political unrest in Bangladesh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that there are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals of which about 9000 are students while ensuring the country that the government is in close contact with the Indian community in Dhaka. Jaishankar informed the Lok Sabha that the bulk of the students returned to India in July. "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there of which about 9000 are students. The bulk of the students returned in July," he said. He also said that Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina requested approval from India to come at very short notice and she arrived on the evening of Monday. "On August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he said. The External Affairs Minister also mentioned that the government is monitoring the situation with regard to the minorities living in Bangladesh. Jaishankar noted that ties between India and Bangladesh are exceptionally close. (ANI) Amid the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh, the BSF Meghalaya Frontier, which oversees a 444 km stretch of the international border with Bangladesh, has heightened security measures to ensure effective border domination and management, said an official press release by BSF. Extensive operations are underway along the entire border to prevent illegal entry and smuggling activities. The IG BSF Meghalaya Harbax Singh Dhillon stated that troops and field commanders are fully aware and vigilant about ongoing developments. The situation across the international border is being closely monitored to address any unforeseen circumstances. Senior officers and commandants have been deployed at the border and instructed to remain in mission mode. All land customs stations and integrated check posts on the International Border of Meghalaya are on high alert and civilian movement has been restricted along the Indo-Bangladesh border. The Meghalaya state government has also imposed a night curfew along the entire International border of Meghalaya. The civil administration and local police in collaboration with the BSF have enhanced vigilance and instructed villagers to remain extra alert. Amid political unrest in Bangladesh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that there are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals of which about 9000 are students while ensuring the country that the government is in close contact with the Indian community in Dhaka. Jaishankar informed the Lok Sabha that the bulk of the students returned to India in July. "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there of which about 9000 are students. The bulk of the students returned in July," he said. He also said that Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina requested approval from India to come at very short notice and she arrived on the evening of Monday. "On August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he said. The External Affairs Minister also mentioned that the government is monitoring the situation with regard to the minorities living in Bangladesh. Jaishankar noted that ties between India and Bangladesh are exceptionally close. (ANI) During his visit, he closely examined the advanced management systems that are required for the efficient supply and distribution of electricity to the key areas of the state. Speaking to the reporters there, Saha briefed about the various measures taken by the state government to ensure uninterrupted power supply across the state, as well as the future plans for further improvements in the electricity sector. These initiatives underscore the government's commitment to enhancing the power supply system for the benefit of the public. He was accompanied by the Power Minister of Tripura Ratan Lal Nath, MD of the electricity supply corporation, Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL), Biswajit Basu, and other senior divisional officers. Taking to X, Saha said, "Today visited the State Load Dispatch Centre, 79 Tilla, Agartala & inspected the modern power distribution system and relevant matters. Also addressed the media regarding initiatives taken & future plans for ensuring uninterrupted power supply." Earlier, Saha also announced the construction of a 6.5-kilometre road connecting Kirtantali to Dak Bunglow in Kailashahar as a part of the efforts to strengthen road infrastructure in the state. The road would be constructed under the special assistance to state capital investment, Saha further stated. "As part of our committed efforts towards strengthening road infrastructure, this 6.5-km road has been built from Kirtantali to Dak Bunglow in Kailashahar. Constructed under the Special Assistance to State Capital Investment, this road will largely benefit the people of this region," Saha said in X. (ANI) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha congratulated President Droupadi Murmu after she was conferred with Fiji's highest civilian award, "Companion of the Order of Fiji," upon her visit to Fiji on Tuesday. Taking to X, Saha said that it was a proud moment for India and the honour is the highest expression of unbreakable historical and cultural ties between both countries. "Moment of Pride for India... Hon'ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji adorned with Fiji's highest honour, 'Companion of the Order of Fiji'. This honour is the highest expression of unbreakable historical & cultural ties between both countries, reflecting India's commitment to peace, cooperation and harmony in the world," he said. President Murmu was conferred with the award by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji. Murmu, as a part of her visit to the South Pacific nation, also addressed the Fijian Parliament. She also held a brief interaction with the Indian community there. In a special briefing on the state visit of the President to Fiji, Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East), said, "The President of Fiji conferred upon our President 'The Order of Fiji' which was deeply appreciated by the President. She also addressed the Fijian Parliament. The President held a community interaction in Suva." The Secretary East said that the President received a warm welcome while reaching Fiji. "The President landed in Suva today morning; upon arrival, she was accorded a Guard of Honour by Fiji Military Police, followed by a traditional welcome attended by the Prime Minister. Along the route from the airport, it was heartwarming to see hundreds of schoolchildren line up shouting their greetings to the President," he said. President Murmu embarked on Sunday on a three-day visit to Fiji at the invitation of Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, President of Fiji. Following Fiji, she is scheduled to visit New Zealand and Timor-Leste. The visit, which marks the first-ever visit by a Head of State from India to Fiji, will give further impetus to the historic ties between the two countries, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) earlier press release. The visit reflects India's continued commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations with Fiji. On the second leg of her visit, President Murmu will visit New Zealand from August 7-9 at the invitation of New Zealand's Governor General Dame Cindy Kiro, according to the MEA press release. During the State Visit, President Murmu will hold a bilateral meeting with New Zealand's Governor General Kiro and meet Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. She will address an education conference and interact with the Indian community and friends of India. The visit will provide further impetus to India-New Zealand bilateral relations. On August 10, President Murmu will visit Timor-Leste at the invitation of President Jose Ramos-Horta. During the visit, President Murmu will hold a bilateral meeting with Timor-Leste Horta. Timor-Leste PM Kay Rala "Xanana" Gusmao, will also call on President Murmu. (ANI) In the wake of civil unrest in Bangladesh, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has contacted the Ministry of External Affairs to provide all possible help urgently to the students and take necessary steps in regard of arranging their safe return to India. "The unrest in Bangladesh has raised questions about the safety of foreign nationals, especially students stranded in troubled areas there. Considering all this Chief Minister Shinde has given priority for the safety of students from Maharashtra studying there," stated an official release by the CMO. CM Shinde has interacted with the Ministry of External Affairs and has highlighted the need for immediate action in view of the seriousness of the situation there in Bangladesh. It has been requested to provide all possible help to affected students there. Chief Minister Shinde has discussed to ensure their immediate safety, to relocate them to a safe place in Bangladesh if necessary, to speed up the process of their safe return to India, the release stated. In order to get information about the students stranded in Bangladesh and provide immediate help to them, a list of students from the State currently there has been compiled and made available to the Ministry of External Affairs. So it will be possible to contact these students immediately and provide help. A team has also been formed by the State government to monitor the situation there and be in touch with the central authorities and the affected families. Coordination is being done with the Indian mission in Bangladesh, so that measures can be taken for the safety of the students. CM Shinde said, "the safety of the students is the highest priority. All necessary measures are being taken for their safe return to their homeland. The State government firmly stands with the families of the affected students during this challenging time". (ANI) Shiv Sena Deputy Leader and Spokesperson Sanjay Nirupam on Tuesday criticized Shiv Sena (UBT) Chief, Uddhav Thackeray, claiming that he is bowing to the Congress High Command in Delhi purely out of a desire for power. Speaking at a press conference held at Balasaheb Bhavan, he said, "Uddhav Thackeray's current visit to Delhi exemplifies his helplessness." "The country remembers the time when national leaders sought discussions at Matoshree during the era of Hindu Hriday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray," said Nirupam. He mentioned that despite the improbability of their government forming, leaders such as Nana Patole, Balasaheb Thorat, Jitendra Awhad, Anil Deshmukh, and Aaditya Thackeray are all vying for the top spot. "Uddhav Thackeray's visit to Delhi is an attempt to position himself as the chief contender for the Chief Ministership within the MVA," he said. However, Nirupam pointed out that Sharad Pawar is unlikely to endorse Uddhav Thackeray for the role, leading Thackeray to seek support from other leaders within the INDIA Alliance to exert pressure on Pawar. Praising Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Nirpuam said that while Pune and Nashik are grappling with flood situations, the state's Chief Minister has been actively involved in relief efforts and measures for the flood victims. "He even cancelled his tour to Delhi to focus on the crisis," said Nirupam. In stark contrast, the Shiv Sena Deputy Leader sharply criticized Uddhav Thackeray for being preoccupied with his ambition for the Chief Minister's post, prioritizing it over addressing the flood situation. Addressing the Waqf Board issue, Nirupam stated that, after the Army and the Railways, the Waqf Board controls the most land, with nearly 8 lakh acres under its jurisdiction.He accused land mafias of exploiting the Waqf Board and looting land worth crores of rupees under the guise of religion. "The Central Government has introduced the Waqf Board Amendment Bill to bring transparency to its functioning, but this has faced opposition from the INDIA Alliance," he added. (ANI) Nickolle Cristina Aguilar speaks with attorney J. Charles Bunk before being sentenced to 15 years for injury to a child causing serious bodily injury by omission Tuesday afternoon in the 226th District Court. Robin Jerstad Nickolle Cristina Aguilar lowers her head during the victim impact statement after being sentenced to 15 years for injury to a child causing serious bodily injury by omission Tuesday afternoon. Robin Jerstad Judge Velia Meza of the 226th District Court sentences Nickolle Cristina Aguilar to 15 years for injury to a child causing serious bodily injury by omission Tuesday afternoon. Robin Jerstad Nickolle Cristina Aguilar looks around the courtroom with attorneys Lindsey Shaw and J. Charles Bunk before being sentenced to 15 years for injury to a child causing serious bodily injury by omission Tuesday afternoon. Robin Jerstad A Florida woman who pleaded guilty in May for her part in the death of her 5-year-old son, who died in San Antonio and whose body was taken to Colorado and thrown off a ravine, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison. Nickolle Cristina Aguilar, 27, was charged with injury to a child causing serious bodily injury by omission in the death of her son, Domenic Patrick Aguilar, 5, on July 24, 2021. She accepted responsibility in May and pleaded guilty to the same charge for not protecting her son from her abusive former boyfriend, Daniel Garcia. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Had she gone to trial on the first-degree felony, she would have faced up to life in prison. As part of a plea agreement reached in March, Aguilar was sentenced to a maximum of 15 years in exchange for her testimony at Garcias murder trial. State District Judge Velia J. Meza was set to sentence Aguilar in June but became irritated when she realized that Aguilar had lied to the court that she was a U.S. citizen. She is not, and the plea had to be reset. At the time, Meza admonished her and told her to start telling the truth. Defense attorneys J.Charles Bunk and Lindsey Shaw asked Meza to consider 12 years because Aguilar cooperated with the state and testified against Garcia. Although it was too late to help her son, she testified truthfully, even if it made her look like the worst person there could be, Bunk told Meza. She stands before you today to take responsibility. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Prosecutors Oscar Salinas and Nathan Moyer asked Meza to consider the maximum allowed by the plea. Salinas acknowledged that Aguilar helped the state convict Garcia. At the end of the day, no mater what I say, the child will always be dead, Salinas said. He recalled surveillance video and testimony from Garcias trial in which Garcia, Aguilar and their children went to get pizza and brought it back to the hotel room. Domenic is in the hotel room, his jaw is swollen because this defendants boyfriend broke his jaw, Salinas told the court. He sat there with a broken jaw, watching his mother eat pizza when he couldnt. This sentencing has been a long time coming. You have earned every single day of the 15 years you bargained for, Meza told Aguilar before she sentenced her Tuesday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The heroes here not you are the grandmothers, your mother, who called authorities to report that Domenic was missing. Garcia, 27, was found guilty of murder May 29 for killing Domenic. His sentencing is scheduled for later this month. He faces up to life in prison. Aguilars tampering with evidence charge for helping to dispose of her sons body is set to be dismissed following Garcias sentencing. Testimony at his trial established that the couple were staying in an extended stay hotel in San Antonio on July 24, 2021, and the child died while in the couples care. According to evidence presented at his trial, Domenic had been beaten by Garcia in the weeks leading up to his death. Surveillance video taken from the extended stay hotel showed the child wearing a mask over his face and struggling to walk down a flight of stairs. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Aguilar testified that she strapped her dead childs body in a car seat next to his younger sister, and the couple drove to Colorado and threw his body into a ravine. They then drove to Costa Rica by way of Mexico. FBI agents specializing in forensics who testified at Garcias trial said the childs remains showed signs that Domenic had a broken jaw, fractured pelvis and ribs. Aguilar will have to serve at least half of her sentence before becoming eligible for parole. She stands to be deported for lying about her immigration status when she is released from prison. The case was heard in the 226th District Court. Union Minister for Civil Aviation Rammohan Naidu on Tuesday met and engaged in detailed discussions with YouTube Global Head Neel Mohan, Google Asia Pacific Region Head Sanjay Gupta, MD-Government Affairs Sreenivas Reddy, and Global VP for Youtube Government Affairs Lesslie Miller in New Delhi. The Minister has aimed at leveraging technology for the advancement of civil aviation and governance in this landmark meeting. During the meeting, the leaders deliberated on the advancing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in governance and explored innovative Google solutions that can enhance governance using AI. Rammohan Naidu emphasized the potential of AI to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and foster transparency within the civil aviation sector. Rammohan Naidu expressed his optimism about the positive outcomes of this collaboration, stating, "The integration of AI and technology in governance and civil aviation holds immense potential. By working together with tech giants like YouTube and Google, we can create a more efficient, informed, and innovative aviation sector that benefits all." YouTube Global Head Neel Mohan highlighted the significant growth of YouTube's content creation capacity, which has been instrumental in educating and entertaining billions worldwide. He emphasized the importance of creating impactful content that can drive awareness and knowledge across various sectors. Rammohan Naidu has utilized this opportunity to request YouTube's collaboration in spreading more awareness and knowledge about civil aviation. He envisioned a partnership where YouTube could play a pivotal role in educating the public about the intricacies and advancements within the aviation sector, thereby fostering a more informed and engaged audience. Furthermore, the Union Minister urged Google to explore collaboration opportunities for aviation-related startups. He highlighted the challenges faced by the aviation industry and sought Google's expertise in developing innovative solutions to address these problems. The potential partnership aims to support startups that can contribute to the growth and development of the aviation sector through cutting-edge technology and innovative approaches. The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to explore these collaboration opportunities further and to work towards implementing innovative solutions that can drive the future of civil aviation and governance. (ANI) The seized building is a double-storied residential house measuring 1145 square feet. The drug peddler has been identified as Ghulam Rasool Bhat, son of Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, a resident of Nassu Badragund, Qazigund town. Ghulam Rasool Bhat is presently lodged in central Jail Kot Balwal, Jammu under Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988 (PIT NDPS Act). The official release reads, "Continuing its unwavering efforts to eradicate the menace of drugs from the society, Police in Kulgam attached property worth crores of a drug peddler at Nassu Badragund, Qazigund." An FIR has been registered and police are investigating the matter. During the course of investigation, the property was prima facie acquired from illicit trafficking in Narcotic drug and Psychotropic substances by the above-mentioned drug peddler. Earlier on August 1, in an action against drug trafficking, Kupwara Police have attached 16.5 marlas of illegally acquired land in the Khumriyal area of the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir. The property was acquired under Section 68(E) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS).A case has been registered and the property belonging to the drug peddler Manzoor Ahmad Mir, son of Ab Jabbar Mir has been taken to a preventive custody for drug peddling. The accused, Manzoor Ahmad Mir, has also been taken into preventive custody earlier under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (PIT-NDPS). Kupwara Police has urged all residents to assist in the fight against drug peddling by providing any relevant information. Kupwara Police has urged the locals for their cooperation as an essential factor to combat this menace. Meanwhile, on the same day, in the fight against drug traffickers, Bijbehara Police Station has attached a commercial complex valued at over Rs 2 crores, belonging to the late Abdul Rashid Dar of Tulkhan Bijbehara. The property was identified as being acquired through the illicit drug trade, specifically the trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. (ANI) Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP Gaurav Gogoi on Tuesday said that in the wake of Bangladesh unrest, the central government should conduct all party meeting regularly to brief about the situation in order to make bordering states' governments aware of the situation. Speaking with ANI, Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi said, "We found a lot of important things in the statement of the External Affairs Minister (EAM). We feel that the statement is very sensitive. An all-party meeting was held today, such meetings should happen again and again so that as the situations change, the leaders of parties are made aware of it so that the Governments at the border (bordering states), be it NDA or any other party, should be alert...If we regulate our work in such a way, then I think that in the time to come, we will be able to control the political ties between India and Bangladesh..." External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that there are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals of which about 9000 are students while ensuring the country that the government is in close contact with the Indian community in Dhaka. Jaishankar informed the Lok Sabha that the bulk of the students returned to India in July. "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there of which about 9000 are students. The bulk of the students returned in July," he said. He also said that Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina requested approval from India to come at very short notice and she arrived on the evening of Monday. "On August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he said. The External Affairs Minister also mentioned that the government is monitoring the situation with regard to the minorities living in Bangladesh. Jaishankar noted that ties between India and Bangladesh are exceptionally close. (ANI) Amid the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh, Punjab Congress chief and Lok Sabha MP Amarinder Singh Raja Warring on Tuesday said that the public wants to know about the government's action to ensure the safety of the Indians which was missing in the statement of S Jaishankar. Amarinder Singh Raja Warring said, "Many people are stuck in Bangladesh...It is time to take action...He didn't give any information regarding how many people are evacuated, how many people are stuck there and whether Indians in Bangladesh are safe there or not?... The public of the nation wants to know about the situation in Bangladesh and what the government is doing to ensure the safety of Indians in Bangladesh..." External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that there are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals of which about 9000 are students while ensuring the country that the government is in close contact with the Indian community in Dhaka. Jaishankar informed the Lok Sabha that the bulk of the students returned to India in July. "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there of which about 9000 are students. The bulk of the students returned in July," he said. He also said that Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina requested approval from India to come at very short notice and she arrived on the evening of Monday. "On August 5, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities. She arrived yesterday evening in Delhi," he said. The External Affairs Minister also mentioned that the government is monitoring the situation with regard to the minorities living in Bangladesh. Jaishankar noted that ties between India and Bangladesh are exceptionally close. (ANI) In a move to strengthen maritime cooperation, the coast guards of the Philippines and Vietnam will conduct their first-ever joint exercises on August 9. As reported by Nikkei Asia, this initiative aims to counter China's assertive actions in the South China Sea, a contentious region both nations claim parts of and have had confrontations with Beijing. Vietnam's 90-meter ship CSB 8002 docked in Manila on Monday, marking the start of five days of training exercises with the Philippines' 83-meter offshore patrol vessel, BRP Gabriela Silang. The joint drills will encompass search and rescue simulations as well as fire and explosion prevention training, according to a Nikkei Asia report. This collaboration follows an agreement between Manila and Beijing to de-escalate tensions in the South China Sea, specifically regarding Philippine resupply missions to Second Thomas Shoal. The timing of the exercises also coincides with a change in Hanoi's leadership after the death of Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and the official succession of Vietnamese President To Lam as party leader on Saturday, as highlighted by Nikkei Asia. Experts view these drills as crucial for enhancing bilateral relations and regional security. "This is important because we're building partnerships and showing the world that two countries with disputes in the West Philippine Sea can collaborate," Rear Admiral Armand Balilo, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson, told reporters. Nikkei Asia emphasized Balilo's point that the Vietnamese Coast Guard's visit stems from an agreement for capacity-building initiatives established during Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s state visit to Hanoi in January. "This is good because it's like a template that despite being rival claimants, we can engage in exercises and people-to-people exchanges," Balilo remarked in an interview with Nikkei Asia. Commodore Algier Ricafrente, PCG deputy chief of staff for international affairs, underlined the strategic importance of these joint exercises. "Should the need arise for our nations to join forces and address future incidents, these drills are crucial," he stated to reporters. China's recent regulation allowing its coast guard to detain foreign nationals crossing maritime lines set by Beijing adds urgency to these drills, which will take place in Manila Bay, facing the South China Sea. Nikkei Asia noted that this new regulation has intensified regional maritime disputes. Julio Amador, CEO of Amador Research Services in Manila, explained to Nikkei Asia that the prospect of joint exercises between claimant countries is feasible only with "good faith," as both nations seek cooperation while maintaining their maritime claims. Amador suggested expanding this cooperation to include other ASEAN claimant states in the South China Sea. Don McLain Gill, an analyst and lecturer at De La Salle University in Manila, described these exercises as "important developments" for bilateral relations. He told Nikkei Asia that enhancing mutual trust and communication between the Philippines and Vietnam "would make it harder for China to interfere." Gill also proposed that Philippine and Vietnamese embassies should work together when needed, similar to the cooperation seen between US Embassies and others in the Philippines. "A unified position from Southeast Asian countries is essential for a significant pushback against Beijing's expansionism," he asserted in an interview with Nikkei Asia. (ANI) Michele Taylor the US Permanent Representative to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Monday joined the panel of human rights experts of the UNHRC demanding the status of Uyghur doctor Gulshan Abbas who was detained by China (PRC). The panel joined by Taylor is a group of human rights experts independent from any govt or organization, serving in their capacity. Reportedly, Abbas was detained after her sister had shared her critical views over Chinese authorities' treatment of the Uyghurs. In a post on 'X,' Taylor mentioned " Joined UN experts in calling for the PRC to provide an update on imprisoned Uyghur doctor Gulshan Abbas, who was detained "in apparent retaliation for her sister's criticism of the Chinese authorities' treatment of the Uyghurs". https://x.com/USAmbHRC/status/1820388271077179722 The case gathered the attention of the UN in June this year when the same panel of experts from the UN had demanded the Chinese authorities to provide information on the status of imprisoned Uyghur doctor Gulshan Abbas, believed to be serving a 20-year sentence since 2019 on terrorism-related charges. In the statement released at that time Mary Lawlor, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders mentioned "Nearly six years after her detention, Dr Abbas' family members still do not have information on where she is being imprisoned, the evidence used to convict her, or most worryingly of all, her health condition. I appeal to the Chinese authorities to comply with its international human rights obligations and at least furnish Dr Abbas' family with this information." That statement also claimed that Abbas has several health complications, and was detained in September 2018. However, no information was provided to her family regarding her arrest and the charges that were filed against her the trial which is being run against her or the prison in which she is being held until 2020. The UN report claimed the official confirmation of the charges on which she was sentenced was only provided in December 2020 by a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson who stated in response to a question at a press conference that Dr Abbas had been jailed for "crimes of participating in a terrorist organisation, aiding terrorist activities and assembling crowds to disrupt social order". Accordingly, Abbas was not participating in any political or human rights activities but was detained six days after her sister Rushan Abbas a US-based Uyghur human rights defender had criticised the alleged persecution of the Uyghur population in China while speaking at a public event in Washington. Additionally, the same UN report also noted that the 2022 Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights's (OHCHR) Assessment of human rights concerns in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region highlighted an alleged pattern of "intimidations, threats and reprisals" against family members of Uyghurs in exile who had engaged in advocacy in relation to XUAR. (ANI) German Air Force is conducting joint training exercises with the Indian Air Force for the first time, said German Ambassador to India, Philipp Ackermann on Tarang Shakti-2024, which is set to begin at Air Force Station Sulur in Tamil Nadu on August 6. "This is the first time that the German Air Force is exercising together with the Indian Air Force, and it is also the first time that it flies in India - a truly historic moment," Ackermann said in an official statement. "This extensive multilateral exercise deepens our security and political ties with India and the region. We are working on a security and defence partnership between our countries," he added. Following this, the Lieutenant General and Inspector of the German Air Force stated, "Tarang Shakti is our first exercise with the Indian Air Force in India." "We have been working on this for a long time with our Indian partners and now the time has come. In this unstable world, you cannot look at the world regions in isolation from one another; it is about partnerships around the globe," he added. A contingent from the French Air and Space Force will participate in India's first multilateral air exercise, Tarang Shakti-2024, which is set to begin at Air Force Station Sulur in Tamil Nadu on August 6. The French contingent will comprise three Rafale fighter jets, one Multirole Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft, and one A400M, with a total of 160 Air Force personnel, according to French Embassy in India press release. In the press release, the French Embassy in India stated, "Three other nations are participating in the first phase of this exercise, including EU Member States Germany and Spain, which have been partners of the Pacific Skies deployment from Alaska to India." The French contingent's participation forms part of its two-month-long mission across the Indo-Pacific region, which started in France at the end of June and will conclude on August 15, according to the French Embassy in India press release. The French Embassy in India further stated, "The mission's goals are to demonstrate France's ability to protect its sovereignty as a resident nation of the Indo-Pacific with several territories in the region, promote the rule of law and multilateralism in this zone, and enhance interoperability with key partners like India. By the end of its mission, the PEGASE 24 will have made stopovers in 13 partner nations and taken part in three major exercises throughout this period, including Tarang Shakti." The armed forces of France and India maintain an intense schedule of exercises that go back decades and illustrate the trust underpinning the France-India strategic partnership. These include the VARUNA Navy exercises (dating back to 1983), GARUDA Air exercises, and SHAKTI Army exercises. (ANI) The call focused on strengthening cooperation across various fields as part of the strategic partnership between the two countries. During the call, the two leaders discussed the latest regional and international developments, with an emphasis on tensions in the Middle East and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and reduce escalation to prevent further crises that threaten regional peace and stability. Furthermore, both leaders stressed the need for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the intensification of efforts to establish a clear path towards a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace based on the two-state solution. This solution aims to ensure the security and stability of the region for the benefit of all parties involved. (ANI/WAM) Miscreants attacked, vandalised and set fire to at least six police stations in Chittagong, looting weapons, bullets and various equipment. In addition, Awami League leaders and activists' homes and officers were targeted, Dhaka Tribune reported. After the report of Sheikh Hasina's resignation, agitated crowds have taken to the streets in celebration. Later, police stations in Chandgaon, Patenga, EPZ, Kotowali, Akbar Shah, and Pahartali under the Chittagong Metropolitan Police (CMP) were attacked, vandalised, and set on fire. During these assaults, police weapons, ammunition, and other equipment were looted. Several police personnel suffered injuries in the attacks, according to a Dhaka Tribune report. Around 5 pm (local time), attackers tried to breach the main gate of the Chittagong Metropolitan Police Lines in Dampara. In response, police personnel fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the attackers. Hundreds of people then gathered in front of the main gate of the Dampara Police Lines, trying to attack and enter forcibly. Police asked the crowd to leave. However, the agitated crowd started pelting bricks at the police commissioner's office. In another incident, Chittagong Central Jail in the Laldighi area was also attacked. Prison guards fired from inside to disperse the miscreants. Around 5 pm (local time), the Chittagong District Police Lines in the Chotopul area of Halishahar were also targeted. Meanwhile, the residence of Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) Mayor M Rezaul Karim Chowdhury was targeted and set on fire after reports of the government's fall. Jubo League leader Helal Akbar Babar's house was also attacked, according to Dhaka Tribune report. CCC ward number 10 Councilor Nichar Uddin Manju's house came under attack. He went to the roof of his house and apologised to the attackers. Following this, the attackers ransacked his residence and left. The office of city Awami League vice-president Altaf Hossain Bachchu was also vandalised and a party office at Darul Fazal Market from the Newmarket intersection was also set on fire. Miscreants then set ablaze Member of Parliament for Raojan, ABM Fazle Karim Chowdhury's residence at Patharghata, behind Kotwali police station at around 5 pm (local time). People from all walks of life marched towards Chittagong, distributing sweets in celebration. After reports surfaced that Sheikh Hasina had departed from Bangladesh, people took to the streets to celebrate, Dhaka Tribune reported. A joyous procession began at 3 pm (local time), spreading through Muradpur, Agrabad, Dewanhat, Chowkbazar, GEC, Sholshahar, Kazir Dewri, Jamalkhan, Bahaddarhat, and every part of the city, the report said. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation with the country's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigning from her post in the wake of mounting protests. The protests, majorly by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests. At least 95 people, including at least 14 police officers, died and hundreds of people were injured in clashes in Dhaka on Sunday, local media outlet Prothom Alo reported. Bangladesh PM Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening after tendering her resignation in the wake of mounting protests in Dhaka. It is not clear if the Bangladeshi Prime Minister will stay in Delhi or move to another location. Reports in media outlets in Bangladesh have speculated that Sheikh Hasina may proceed to London. (ANI) At least 135 people have been estimated killed in violence across Bangladesh according to local media reports. Police firings, mob beatings, and arson across the country killed at least 135 people before and after Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister on August 5, the Dhaka Tribune said Tuesday. In Sherpur District in northern Bangladesh, a mob armed with sticks stormed into the district jail, freeing more than 500 inmates. Crowds of protesters continued to roam streets in Dhaka and other Bangladeshi cities even after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and left the country. The Bangladesh Army has temporarily taken power in the country and called on people to stop violence. An interim government is expected to be formed soon. As per the Dhaka Tribune, in Jessore, at least eight people were burned to death and 84 others were injured after unidentified arsonists set fire to a residential hotel. In Khulna, three people, including Koyra Upazila Parishad Chairman and Upazila Awami League President GM Mohsin Reza, were beaten to death by a mob. In Naogaon, a group of miscreants vandalized the residence of Food Minister Sadhan Chandra Majumder and miscreats vandalized and set fire to the house of Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, an MP. Bangladesh's military said it would lift a curfew imposed to quash protests at dawn today. Anit government protests continued in July led by students who took to the streets of various cities in the country to demand the abolition of job quotas for relatives of participants in the 1971 war of independence. Bangladesh's Supreme Court ruled against reintroducing job quotas on July 21 but protestors continued to demand abolishing job reservations for children of "freedom fighters" from Bangladesh's 1971 independence war. Anti government protests escalated on August 4 Protestors were called to march to Dhaka for a "final protest" on August 5, escalating the confrontation with the government. As per local media reports and viral videos on social media, protestors yesterday entered the Parliament building and were seen taking away things. Some were also seen smoking while sitting on the chairs of the parliament hall. Another group entered Ganabhaban and was observed looting and posing with live animals and furniture at the residence of the country's prime minister, the Dhaka Tribune reported. Protesters also trashed the prime minister's residence. They vandalised a statue of the country's founder Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and set fire to his museum. They also stormed the office of the ruling Awami League party. However, a report in Dhaka Tribune said that students Dhaka intercepted and confiscated looted items, including air conditioners, refrigerators, chairs, tables, and computers, were being carried away by people who went to the Ganabhaban after Sheikh Hasina's resignation as the prime minister. Leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, in a bid to address Bangladesh's ongoing challenge, Dhaka Tribune reported. President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Monday night gave his nod to form an interim government to run the country. (ANI) Alsu Kurmasheva, center, huddles with family members after she arrived at Kelly Field following her release by Russia, Friday, Aug. 2, 2024. Eric Gay/Associated Press Paul Whelan, center, stands with Alsu Kurmasheva, center left, Evan Gershkovich, center right, and family upon arrival at Kelly Field after being released by Russia, Friday, Aug. 2, 2024. Eric Gay/Associated Press Evan Gershkovich, right, is hugged as he arrives at Kelly Field after being released by Russia. Eric Gay/Associated Press Paul Whelan, center, standing with Alsu Kurmasheva, second from left, and Evan Gershkovich, third from right, are joined by family Friday as they pose for a photo after their arrival at Kelly Field following their release by Russia. Eric Gay/Associated Press Paul Whelan, center, standing with Alsu Kurmasheva, center left, and Evan Gershkovich, center right, are joined by family as they pose for a photo Friday after their arrival at Kelly Field following their release by Russia. Eric Gay/Associated Press Three Americans held prisoner in Russia and released from captivity last week have left Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, the Army said Monday. Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, former Marine Paul Whelan and Alsu Kurmasheva, an editor for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, arrived at Kelly Field on the Southwest Side early Friday. They received medical and psychological care at the hospitals specialized program that helps former hostages and prisoners of war prepare to reenter society but did not stay long. Advertisement Article continues below this ad What I can tell you is they have been discharged, Bob Whetstone, a BAMC spokesman, said Monday. Asked if he could say when they were released, he replied in an email, No sir. Gershkovich, Whelan and Kurmasheva gained their freedom in an elaborate swap involving seven countries and the release of 24 prisoners in all, 16 held by Russia and eight by Western governments. Gershkovich, 32, spent 16 months in a Russian prison on what the U.S. government said were sham charges of espionage. Whelan, 54, had been in Russian custody the longest. He was arrested in 2018 at a friends wedding in Moscow and charged with possessing Russian military secrets. Kurmasheva, 47, was serving a recently-imposed 6-year sentence in a penal colony for allegedly spreading false information about the Russian Army. The BAMC facility is often secretive due to the high-profile nature of the people it has treated over the years. Its reintegration program is staffed by physicians, psychiatrists, physical therapists and other specialists under the command of U.S. Army South. It dates to the end of the Vietnam War, when returning prisoners of war needed help coping with the trauma theyd endured. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The last true prisoner of war cared for there was, in fact, the sole American POW held in the long war in Afghanistan, then-Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl. He remained at the facility through an Article 32 evidentiary hearing that led to further legal proceedings ordered by the Army. While the Army initially did not say if he had been tortured or mistreated, evidence eventually made public revealed he suffered permanent debilitating injuries at the hands of his Taliban captors. Other former captives who have gone through the program include Hotel Rwanda hero Paul Rusesabagina, who was kidnapped and imprisoned by the Rwandan government for more than two years; WNBA star Brittney Griner, a Houston native and two-time Olympic gold medalist who was held in a Russian penal colony on a drug conviction; and Pvt. Travis T. King, a GI detained by North Korea for 70 days after illegally entering that country. The process at the BAMC reintegration facility seeks to help former POWs and hostages overcome the effects of captivity and isolation and return to their professional, community and family lives as smoothly as possible. This is a very complicated joint operation involving hundreds of people, according to an Army document describing the program. Operational planners, aircrews, medical professionals, security officers, attorneys, chaplains, and specialists in finance, personnel, public affairs and logistics are involved in these operations. Family members also assist in the process, at first through phone contacts and later during family reunions. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The process is about helping the returnee gain control of his emotions, a Pentagon spokesman, Army Col. Steve Warren, has said. One of the methods the psychologists use to help the returnee is to allow him to tell his story. In 2008, Marc Gonsalves, Thomas Howes and Keith Stansell employees of defense contractor Northrup Grumman were treated at BAMC after being held captive in Colombia by a guerrilla group for more than five years. Gonsalves, Howes and Stansell were captured by the revolutionary group FARC after their plane went down in Colombias southern jungle in 2003. They were constantly under guard, slept on the ground or in crude beds and ate whatever their captors fed them. In their book, Out of Captivity: Surviving 1,967 Days in the Colombian Jungle, the three former hostages said their caregivers at BAMC rarely allowed them to be alone. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Griner also wrote a memoir about her captivity in Russia. She was convicted of drug possession after Russian authorities found vape cartridges of cannabis oil in her luggage. She was freed in exchange for the release of Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout, known as the merchant of death, who was serving a U.S. prison sentence for crimes that included conspiracy to kill Americans. President Droupadi Murmu was received by her Fijian counterpart Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere on Tuesday at the State House in Suva. As the two leaders met, discussions were held on how to further deepen the India-Fiji relationship. President Droupadi Murmu, who is on her State visit to Fiji, was also accorded a traditional ceremonial welcome. Upon her arrival in Fiji on the first leg of her three-nation visit, President Murmu was received by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji at the airport. She was also accorded a ceremonial welcome there. President Murmu embarked on Sunday on a three-day (August 5-6) visit to Fiji at the invitation of Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, President of Fiji. Following Fiji, she is scheduled to visit New Zealand and Timor-Leste. The visit, which marks the first-ever visit by a Head of State from India to Fiji, will give further impetus to the historic ties between the two countries. It will strengthen bilateral ties between India and Pacific nations and reflect India's focus on the Act East Policy. In Fiji, President Murmu is scheduled to address the country's Parliament and interact with the Indian diaspora. On the second leg of her visit, President Murmu will visit New Zealand from August 7-9 at the invitation of Cindy Kiro, Governor General of New Zealand. During the State visit, President Murmu will hold a bilateral meeting with Kiro and meet with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. President Murmu will also address an education conference and interact with the Indian community. In the last leg of her tour, President Murmu will travel to Timor Leste at the invitation of the President of Timor Leste, Jose Ramos-Horta, following which she will hold engagements on August 10. The visit also marks the first head-of-state-level visit from India to Timor Leste. President Murmu will also hold a meeting with Timor Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao. The visit by President Murmu to Fiji, New Zealand and Timor-Leste underscores the importance India attaches to bilateral relations with these countries and reflects a strong focus on the Act East Policy which was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi ten years ago at the 9th East Asia Summit in 2014. (ANI) Hours after Sheikh Hasina, her fierce adversary, was ousted and fled the nation, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin issued an order for the release of Khaleda Zia, the imprisoned former prime minister and country's prominent opposition figure, reported Al Jazeera. In a statement on Monday, the president's press team said that a meeting led by Shahabuddin had "decided unanimously to free Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia immediately." "The meeting has also decided to free all the people who have been arrested during the student protests," the president's statement added. The president's meeting was attended by prominent leaders of various opposition parties, including the Bangladesh National Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami, as well as Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the heads of the navy and air force. Zia, 78, a former Bangladeshi prime minister, is confined to a hospital due to poor health. In 2018, she was found guilty of corruption and given a 17-year prison sentence. She and Hasina had a long-standing feud, and she was accused of abusing her position of authority by stealing almost USD250,000 in donations intended for a trust for an orphanage, according to Al Jazeera. The BNP has claimed that the cases were made up to prevent Zia from entering politics; Hasina's administration, however, refuted these claims. Since last month, when protests against a government job quota turned fatal, more than 2,000 people have been jailed. The demonstrations quickly turned into a nationwide campaign for Hasina's resignation. Earlier on Monday, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, in his remarks to the press said that an interim government would be formed and the deaths in the course of the weeks-long protests would be thoroughly investigated, reported Al Jazeera. "I promise you all we will bring justice to all the murders and injustice. We request you to have faith in the army of the country. I take full responsibility, and I assure you to not get disheartened," the general had said. The military also announced that on Tuesday, the curfew would be lifted at dawn and that businesses, companies, schools, and institutions would open at 6 a.m. (00:00 GMT). People from all walks of life marched towards Chittagong, distributing sweets in celebration. After reports surfaced that Sheikh Hasina had departed from Bangladesh, people took to the streets to celebrate, Dhaka Tribune reported. A joyous procession began at 3 pm (local time), spreading through Muradpur, Agrabad, Dewanhat, Chowkbazar, GEC, Sholshahar, Kazir Dewri, Jamalkhan, Bahaddarhat, and every part of the city, the report said. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation with the country's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigning from her post in the wake of mounting protests. The protests, majorly by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests. Bangladesh PM Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening after tendering her resignation in the wake of mounting protests in Dhaka. It is not clear if the Bangladeshi Prime Minister will stay in Delhi or move to another location. Meanwhile, in Dhaka, the leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, in a bid to address Bangladesh's ongoing challenge. This announcement was made in a video message released early hours of Tuesday by key student leaders Nahid Islam, Asif Mahmud, and Abu Bakar Mazumdar. President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Monday night gave his nod to form an interim government to run the country. (ANI) United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has stressed that it is vital that the transition of power in Bangladesh is 'peaceful, transparent' and conducted in an accountable way and open to the meaningful participation of all the people of the country. In a statement, he noted that the transition of power in Bangladesh should be guided by human rights, in line with the country's international obligations and those responsible for the killing of hundreds and thousands injured should be held accountable. Volker Turk said, "The transition must be conducted in a transparent and accountable way, and be inclusive and open to the meaningful participation of all Bangladeshis." He stated, "There must be no further violence or reprisals." He stated noted that the democratic order and the rule of law must be ensured as quickly as possible, and all emergency measures must be strictly limited in accordance with international law. He called for the release of everyone, who has been arbitrarily detained, and all those responsible for human rights violations must be held to account. His statement comes as Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation with the country's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigning from her post in the wake of mounting protests. The protests, majorly by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests. Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening after tendering her resignation in the wake of mounting protests in Dhaka. It is not clear if Sheikh Hasina will stay in Delhi or move to another location later. In the statement, Turk reiterated his calls for a comprehensive, impartial and transparent investigation into alleged human rights violations since July, when initially peaceful protests against a quota system for civil service jobs were followed by violence and a brutal response by the authorities. He stated, "In the current circumstances, and to ensure public confidence, an investigation should be conducted independently, and my Office stands ready to support this." Volker Turk said, "The demands for justice and reform must be heeded," adding that at this pivotal moment, Bangladesh's international human rights obligations can serve as a road map for the transitional authorities and all political leaders. Stressing that it is a time for national healing, the UN High Commissioner said, "This is a time for national healing, including through an immediate end to violence, as well as accountability that ensures the rights of victims to truth and reparations, and a truly inclusive process that brings the country together on the way forward." Following the resignation of Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina, leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, in a bid to address Bangladesh's ongoing challenge, Dhaka Tribune reported. This announcement was made in a video message released early hours of Tuesday by key student leaders Nahid Islam, Asif Mahmud, and Abu Bakar Mazumdar. Earlier on Monday night, Nahid had announced that an outline for an interim government would be formulated within the next 24 hours, as per Dhaka Tribune. As widespread violence persisted throughout the night in Bangladesh, the coordinators decided to announce their stance as quickly as possible, even in the middle of the night. Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Monday night gave his nod to form an interim government to run the country. Following this, a meeting was held at Bangabhaban, the presidential palace, to address the country's deteriorating law and order situation. Attendees included the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, political party leaders, and civil society members. This decision was made during a meeting at Bangabhaban after discussing the current situation with the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, leaders of various political parties, and members of civil society, according to a press release signed by Muhammad Shiplu Zaman, Assistant Press Secretary of Bangabhaban. The Army has been asked to stop the vandalism and ensure law enforcement, which deteriorated severely after Sheikh Hasina left the country Monday afternoon. Meanwhile, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has announced that Tarique Rahman, the party's acting chairman, will be returning to the country very soon. (ANI) President Droupadi Murmu held a meeting with Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka on Tuesday. The two leaders held discussions and agreed to build upon historic ties and strengthen the partnership between the two nations. In a post on X, the President of India stated, "Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji called on President Droupadi Murmu. Both leaders held wide-ranging discussions and agreed to build upon the historic ties and strengthen the partnership between the two countries." Earlier in the day, President Murmu was received by her Fijian counterpart Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere at the State House in Suva. As the two leaders met, discussions were held on how to further deepen the India-Fiji relationship. President Droupadi Murmu, who is on her State visit to Fiji, was also accorded a traditional ceremonial welcome. Taking to India, the President of India stated, "President Droupadi Murmu was warmly received by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji at State House, Suva. The two leaders discussed ways to further deepen the India-Fiji relationship. At State House, President Droupadi Murmu also witnessed the progress of the 'Solarization of Heads of State Residences' project, an Indian initiative that was inaugurated in February last year." Upon her arrival in Fiji on the first leg of her three-nation visit, President Murmu was received by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji at the airport. She was also accorded a ceremonial welcome there. In a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, "An important milestone in India - Fiji partnership! President Droupadi Murmu @rashtrapatibhvn arrived in Suva on the first-ever visit by the President of India to Fiji. In a special gesture, PM @slrabuka of Fiji received President Murmu at the Nausori Airport with full state honors." President Murmu embarked on Sunday on a three-day visit to Fiji at the invitation of Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, President of Fiji. Following Fiji, she is scheduled to visit New Zealand and Timor-Leste. The visit, which marks the first-ever visit by a Head of State from India to Fiji, will give further impetus to the historic ties between the two countries, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) earlier press release. The visit reflects India's continued commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations with Fiji. On the second leg of her visit, President Murmu will visit New Zealand from August 7-9 at the invitation of New Zealand's Governor General Dame Cindy Kiro, according to MEA press release. During the State Visit, President Murmu will hold a bilateral meeting with New Zealand's Governor General Kiro and meet Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. She will address an education conference and interact with the Indian community and friends of India. The visit will provide further impetus to India-New Zealand bilateral relations. On August 10, President Murmu will visit Timor-Leste at the invitation of President Jose Ramos-Horta. During the visit, President Murmu will hold a bilateral meeting with Timor-Leste Horta. Timor-Leste PM Kay Rala "Xanana" Gusmao, will call on President Murmu. In addition, President Murmu will interact with members of the Indian community. This will be the first-ever Head of State visit from India to Timor-Leste, according to MEA press release. In an earlier press release, MEA stated, "The State Visit by President Murmu to Fiji, New Zealand and Timor-Leste underscore the importance India attaches to our bilateral relations with these countries and reflects our strong focus on the Act East Policy which was announced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ten years ago at the 9th East Asia Summit in 2014." (ANI) Glen Malcolm Conning (50), a New Zealand national and pilot for PT Intan Angkasa Air Service was shot dead on August 5, according to Indonesian military-national police joint-operation, the Indonesian news agency Ankara reported. Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, a National Police member who heads the joint security peace force, Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force 2024, in a statement said that the separatist armed group also burned the helicopter that landed in Alama, a remote village in Mimika district of Central Papua province. "There was a hostage-taking and murder carried out by the OPM against Glen Malcolm Conning who was a helicopter pilot PT. Intan Angkasa Air Service," he said in the statement cited by the Ankara news agency. The helicopter was carrying four passengers, two health workers, a baby and a child, from Moses Kilangin Timika Airport, he said. The Indonesian armed forces and national police have begun a search for the rebels responsible for killing the New Zealand pilot. He said that the gunmen released the passengers later. In February 2023, a Susi Air plane was burned by the OPM in Nduga Regency. The pilot, Captain Philip Mark Merthens, a New Zealand national, was taken hostage. Despite ongoing efforts, his whereabouts remain unknown, the Ankara news agency reported. According to a report in the CNN, In 2020, seven employees of PT Freeport Indonesia, including a New Zealand miner, Graeme Thomas Wall from Ngaruawahia, were attcked by gunmen in a parking area in Tembagapura mining town. Wall was shot in his chest and died. Papua was incorporated into Indonesia in 1969 after a UN-sponsored ballot that was widely seen as a sham. Since then, a low-level insurgency has simmered in the mineral-rich region, which is divided into six provinces, CNN said. (ANI) The C-130J transport aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force took off from the Hindon Air Force base on Tuesday morning around 9 AM IST and was moving towards its next destination, sources said. The sources noted that the Indian security agencies are monitoring it closely. However, it is important to note that Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is not on board the C-130 J transport aircraft which took off today from the Hindon air base. According to sources, the Bangladesh Air Force C-130J transport aircraft is flying with 7 military personnel in it towards its base in Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening after tendering her resignation. It is not clear if Sheikh Hasina will continue to stay in Delhi or move to another location later. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday chaired an all-party meeting in Parliament and briefed the leaders about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Jaishankar briefed the leaders on how the issue had panned out in Bangladesh and the prevailing situation in the country. He also spoke about how Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina had moved to India and how India would take care of the Bangladeshi leader, sources from the all-party meeting told ANI. Jaishankar said that Sheikh Hasina is in India and the Indian government wants to give her time to let the Indian government know what her future course of action would be. Taking to X, S Jaishankar stated, "Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended." During the meeting, Jaishankar told the leaders that the central government was in touch with the Bangladesh Army as well. He said that it is a prevailing situation and the government will take appropriate action at the right time, according to sources. According to sources, the leaders in the party meeting were informed that there are 20000 Indian nationals in the country. According to sources, so far 8000 Indian nationals have come back. Jaishankar informed the meeting that the Indian government is in touch with Indian nationals and the High Commission there continues to operate. The leaders were informed that the focus is on minorities and that they should be protected, sources from the all-party meeting told ANI. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation as of now with Sheikh Hasina resigning from her post in the wake of mounting protests. The protests, majorly by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests. (ANI) President Droupadi Murmu was conferred with 'The Order of Fiji', the country's highest civilian award by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji on Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs said. President, as a part of her visit to the South Pacific nation, also addressed the Fijian Parliament. She also held a brief interaction with the Indian community there. In a special briefing on the State visit of the President to Fiji, Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) said, "President of Fiji conferred upon our President 'The Order of Fiji'which was deeply appreciated by the President. She also addressed the Fijian Parliament. The President held a community interaction in Suva." The Secretary East said that the President received a warm welcome while reaching Fiji. "The President landed in Suva today morning, upon arrival she was accorded a Guard of Honour by Fiji Military Police followed by a traditional welcome attended by the Prime Minister. Along the route from the airport, it was heartwarming to see hundreds of school children line up shouting their greetings to the President," he said. President Murmu also met the Prime Minister of Fiji, Sitiveni Rabuka, as well as the President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere. "The President landed in Suva today morning, upon arrival she was accorded a Guard of Honour by Fiji Military Police followed by a traditional welcome attended by the Prime Minister. Along the route from the airport, it was heartwarming to see hundreds of school children line up shouting their greetings to the President. At the State House, the President met the President of Fiji. Together they viewed the solarization project of the State House. It was completed by India as a part of our development partnership," the MEA Secretary said. "The Prime Minister of Fiji also called on the President and they had wide-ranging discussions in which they reaffirmed the mutual trust and strong commitment towards enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries," he added. President Murmu embarked on Sunday on a three-day visit to Fiji at the invitation of Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, President of Fiji. Following Fiji, she is scheduled to visit New Zealand and Timor-Leste. The visit, which marks the first-ever visit by a Head of State from India to Fiji, will give further impetus to the historic ties between the two countries, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) earlier press release. The visit reflects India's continued commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations with Fiji. On the second leg of her visit, President Murmu will visit New Zealand from August 7-9 at the invitation of New Zealand's Governor General Dame Cindy Kiro, according to MEA press release. During the State Visit, President Murmu will hold a bilateral meeting with New Zealand's Governor General Kiro and meet Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. She will address an education conference and interact with the Indian community and friends of India. The visit will provide further impetus to India-New Zealand bilateral relations. On August 10, President Murmu will visit Timor-Leste at the invitation of President Jose Ramos-Horta. During the visit, President Murmu will hold a bilateral meeting with Timor-Leste Horta. Timor-Leste PM Kay Rala "Xanana" Gusmao, will also call on President Murmu. (ANI) The C-130J transport aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force carrying seven military personnel has landed at a Bangladeshi air base after flying over from India. The aircraft was monitored all along its flight path over India by security agencies, defence sources told ANI. Earlier in the day, the Bangladesh Air Force's C-130J took off from the Hindon Air Force base at around 9 am IST, according to sources. It is important to note that Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is not on board the C-130 J transport aircraft which took off today from the Hindon air base. Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening after tendering her resignation. It is not clear if Sheikh Hasina will continue to stay in Delhi or move to another location later. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday chaired an all-party meeting in Parliament and briefed the leaders about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Jaishankar briefed the leaders on how the issue had panned out in Bangladesh and the prevailing situation in the country. He also spoke about how Sheikh Hasina had moved to India and how India would take care of the Bangladeshi leader, sources from the all-party meeting told ANI. Jaishankar said that Sheikh Hasina is in India and the Indian government wants to give her time to let the Indian government know what her future course of action would be. Taking to X, S Jaishankar stated, "Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended." During the meeting, Jaishankar told the leaders that the central government was in touch with the Bangladesh Army as well. He said that it is a prevailing situation and the government will take appropriate action at the right time, according to sources. According to sources, the leaders in the party meeting were informed that there are 20000 Indian nationals in the country. According to sources, so far 8000 Indian nationals have come back. Jaishankar informed the meeting that the Indian government is in touch with Indian nationals and the High Commission there continues to operate. The leaders were informed that the focus is on minorities and that they should be protected, sources from the all-party meeting told ANI. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation as of now with Sheikh Hasina resigning from her post in the wake of mounting protests. The protests, majorly by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests. (ANI) The ongoing protest by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) against atrocities committed by Pakistan security forces on the Baloch people has entered its 9th day. The BYC said that the sit-in will continue until they get justice. The BYC said that the Baloch National Gathering in Gwadar has become a symbol of unity among the members of the Baloch community. Despite facing severe repression, including the killings and injuries of people, threats, arrests, and violence, they remain unwavering in their demands for justice. https://x.com/BalochYakjehtiC/status/1820576974823113190 In a post on X, the BYC stated, "Today marks the ninth day of the Gwadar sit-in protest. This persistent demonstration highlights the maturity and commitment of the Baloch people in their fight against the state's brutality and for the recognition of their rights." The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has also organized additional sit-ins in Turbat, Panjgur, Quetta, and Nushki against the state's barbarism and oppression at the Baloch National Gathering. These protests are amplifying the collective voice of the Baloch people and drawing greater attention to their cause. Furthermore, the BYC said "Each day, as the sun rises over the sit-in, it reveals the faces of those who refuse to be silenced. The resilience and courage of the Baloch people stand as a powerful testament to their enduring spirit and relentless pursuit of justice. Their steadfastness is a beacon of hope and a call for solidarity from those who believe in human rights and dignity." The BYC also organized a remembrance meeting for those who lost their lives while highlighting the atrocities of the Pakistani security forces. https://x.com/BalochYakjehtiC/status/1820543387763617881 BYC posted on X "Turbat: Hundreds of women, children and others lit candles and paid homage to the Baloch martyrs Raji Machi and vowed that the sacrifice of the martyrs will not be forgotten but will continue to stand against oppression and oppression." (ANI) US President Joe Biden on Tuesday stated that he has been briefed in the Situation Room on developments in West Asia, amid escalating tensions in the region. Vice President Kamala Harris was also present during the discussions. Due to the rise in tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, the situation in West Asia continues to remain complicated. "Earlier, @VP and I were briefed in the Situation Room on developments in the Middle East. We received updates on threats posed by Iran and its proxies, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate regional tensions, and preparations to support Israel should it be attacked again," Biden wrote on X. "We also discussed the steps we are taking to defend our forces and respond to any attack against our personnel in a manner and place of our choosing," he further said. https://x.com/POTUS/status/1820588608715178352 US Central Command's General Michael Kurilla arrived in the region on Saturday amid preparations for a possible attack by Iran on Israel in response to the recent killings of senior Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, US-based news website Axios reported, citing two US officials. General Kurilla's visit, which was planned before the recent escalation between Israel, Iran, and Hezbollah following the killing of Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, is now seen as a strategic move, the news outlet said. US and Israeli officials said they do not know whether Iran and Hezbollah will carry out a coordinated attack or operate separately. The officials said that they think that Iran and Hezbollah are still working on finalising their military plans and giving them approval at the political level. On July 31, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed in an attack in Tehran. In a statement, the IRGC said that Haniyeh and one of his bodyguards were killed when their residence was hit in Tehran. Haniyeh, who was based in Qatar was in Tehran to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the Iranian President-elect, Masoud Pezeshkian. Meanwhile, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said that top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr was killed in the Israeli strike in southern Lebanon on Tuesday (local time). The IDF said Shukr was "responsible for the majority of Hezbollah's most advanced weaponry, including precise-guided missiles, cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, long-range rockets, and UAVs" and for the terror group's "force build-up, planning, and execution of terror attacks against the State of Israel," The Times of Israel reported. On July 30, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that his nation has delivered "crushing blows" to enemies in the last few days, CNN reported. He made the remarks hours after the deaths of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh and senior Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr. (ANI) District 3 Council Member Phyllis Viagran speaks on the proposed changes to the city charter on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News District 9 Council Member John Courage asks questions about proposed changes to the city charter on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News A copy of the Charter of the City of San Antonio lays a top a colorful bag during a meeting of City Council discussing proposed changes to the city charter on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Mayor Ron Nirenberg listens to City Attorney Andy Segovia address a question during a meeting of City Council discussing proposed changes to the city charter on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News District 2 Council Member Jalen McKee-Rodriguez addresses members of the Charter Review Commission during a meeting of City Council discussing proposed changes to the city charter on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News After weeks of debating how much is too much to be paid, the City Council on Thursday could approve a ballot proposition to raise their salary to $70,200. Thats less than what the Charter Review Commission suggested, but more than the salary Mayor Ron Nirenberg favored. The extent of the responsibility for City Council, I think, is a great commitment of time, energy and thought process, said District 9 Councilman John Courage during an Aug. 1 special meeting. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Were offering a lot less than were worth, Courage added, referring to the mayors suggestion to set pay at $58,000. That number reflects the Census area median household income of $58,829 for the city of San Antonio. $70,200 would be a big pay raise. Council members currently receive $45,722 annually, which was the area median household income in 2015. That was the last time San Antonio voters were asked to amend the city charter to increase pay for the council and mayor. Whatever salary council lands on Thursday will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot and would take effect after the May 2025 municipal election, when all 10 council members and the mayor will be up for election. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Charter Review Commission which Nirenberg convened late last year to study council pay, among other changes had recommended bumping up pay to $80,000. That figure is based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics average median income estimates for people employed in management and professional occupations for the San Antonio-New Braunfels metropolitan area. Under the commissions proposal, the mayor would have earned $95,000, up from $61,725. But the mayor and council largely balked at the mayor-appointed commissions recommendation, which many viewed as excessive in a city where 18% of residents live in poverty. Rather than use the area median household income as defined by the U.S. Census, a majority of council pushed for the area median income as set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development a difference of more than $12,000 from the figure Nirenberg had pitched. Council members Jalen McKee-Rodriguez, Marina Alderete Gavito, Phyllis Viagran, Teri Castillo and Courage, a 2025 mayoral candidate, expressed support during last weeks special meeting for setting their pay at 80% of HUDs median income for a four-person household for the San Antonio-New Braunfels metropolitan area and the mayors pay at 100%. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On Thursday, the council will be asked to approve ballot language that would use these HUD figures for 2023, which would equal a $70,200 salary for council and a $87,800 salary for the mayor. The city is using last years estimates rather than those for 2024, which are a couple hundred dollars higher, because the 2023 estimates were what council members referenced during the special meeting, said city spokesperson Luke Simons. The city uses HUD income calculations and corresponding rent limits to set housing-related targets. For example, in the Strategic Housing Implementation Plan the council adopted a couple years ago, the city outlined specific numbers of rental and ownership units at various income levels that officials wanted to see built or preserved in the area. HUD figures are also used to determine eligibility for federally-subsidized housing. I see that we are offering (city) services to 60% AMI, and when your council members are sitting in that 50% or 60% AMI they had no other jobs thats not a good place, said Viagran, who represents the Southeast Sides District 3. You have council members right now that arent going to the city and saying, Hey, I want those services for me that I pay to because we know were elected officials. But that doesnt mean youre always going to have this type of council. Advertisement Article continues below this ad These services include utility payment assistance and housing relocation assistance, which can include help covering a security deposit, application fees and moving costs. The South Korean chapter of the Baloch National Movement held a protest in South Korea's Busan on Monday to express solidarity with Baloch peaceful protesters facing severe repression by the Pakistani in Gwadar and other areas of Balochistan. The BNM South Korea chapter called on world leaders and human rights organizations to intervene and help end the prolonged Baloch genocide. They urged the international community to take action against the Pakistani forces and support the Baloch's struggle for peace and dignity. Demonstrators carried banners and placards to express support for those protesting against the genocide and other human rights violations in Balochistan. The protesters chanted slogans against the Pakistani security forces, condemning their crackdown on the Baloch National Gathering and the Baloch people. The protest aimed to draw attention to the critical situation in Gwadar, where sit-in protests are ongoing under dangerous circumstances, with state forces threatening the protesters. During the rally, BNM members delivered statements to raise awareness about the situation in Balochistan. Hafsa Baloch, one of the protesters, highlighted that while the world focuses on conflicts in Palestine and Ukraine, the dire situation in Balochistan remains largely ignored. She emphasized the alarming conditions in the region, citing severe human rights violations by Pakistani Security forces over the past two decades. Following The Baloch National Gathering (Baloch Raaji Muchi), the violence and suppression inflicted by the Pakistani forces has intensified across Balochistan, with state forces arresting and detaining hundreds of protesters, including leaders of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC). Hafsa also stated, "These inhumane actions reveal Pakistan's intentions toward the Baloch nation. We, the Baloch, are peace-loving people who want to live with dignity, but Pakistan won't let us. Pakistan is guilty of committing crimes against humanity, killing and abducting our people, and exploiting our national resources." Hafsa Baloch also recounted an incident on July 2 in Nushkai, where state forces reportedly opened fire on peaceful protesters, injuring several people and killing Hamdan Baloch, a member of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee. Similar incidents were reported in Karachi, where state forces were accused of using force against peaceful protesters, including women, by dragging, beating, and unlawfully detaining them. On July 28, a peaceful protest organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee in Gwadar was met with violent repression by Pakistani security forces, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries among peaceful protesters. (ANI) Amid ongoing unrest in Bangladesh, Iran's Ambassador to India, Iraj Elahi said that whatever has happened in the country has raised Tehran's concerns about the lives of the people, as it shares traditional relations with Bangladesh. He noted that lack of peace or stability in Bangladesh will affect all regions. In an interview with ANI, the Iranian envoy said, "Bangladesh is an important country in the region. It is a big Muslim country. Iran has traditional relations with Bangladesh. What happened in Bangladesh has raised our concerns about the lives of people, this country's stability and the region's stability." Ambassador Elahi expressed hope of normalcy returning soon to the violence-hit country. He said, "If there is no peace or stability in Bangladesh, then it will affect all regions. We hope that very soon we will witness stability and the rule of law in Bangladesh." Since last month, when protests against a government job quota turned fatal, more than 2,000 people have been jailed. The demonstrations quickly turned into a nationwide campaign for Hasina's resignation. Earlier on Monday, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, in his remarks to the press said that an interim government would be formed and the deaths in the course of the weeks-long protests would be thoroughly investigated, reported Al Jazeera. "I promise you all we will bring justice to all the murders and injustice. We request you to have faith in the army of the country. I take full responsibility, and I assure you to not get disheartened," the general had said. The military also announced that on Tuesday, the curfew would be lifted at dawn and that businesses, companies, schools, and institutions would open at 6 a.m. (00:00 GMT). People from all walks of life marched towards Chittagong, distributing sweets in celebration. After reports surfaced that Sheikh Hasina had departed from Bangladesh, people took to the streets to celebrate, Dhaka Tribune reported. A joyous procession began at 3 pm (local time), spreading through Muradpur, Agrabad, Dewanhat, Chowkbazar, GEC, Sholshahar, Kazir Dewri, Jamalkhan, Bahaddarhat, and every part of the city, the report said. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation with the country's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigning from her post in the wake of mounting protests. The protests, majorly by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests. Bangladesh PM Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening after tendering her resignation in the wake of mounting protests in Dhaka. It is not clear if the Bangladeshi Prime Minister will stay in Delhi or move to another location. Meanwhile, in Dhaka, the leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, in a bid to address Bangladesh's ongoing challenge. This announcement was made in a video message released early hours of Tuesday by key student leaders Nahid Islam, Asif Mahmud, and Abu Bakar Mazumdar. President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Monday night gave his nod to form an interim government to run the country. (ANI) A day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister of Bangladesh and left the country, President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday, announced the dissolution of the country's parliament to make way for the formation of an interim administration, Dhaka Tribune reported. Based on the decision from a meeting of President Shahabuddin with the heads of the three armed forces, leaders of various political parties, representatives of civil society, and leaders of the Students Against Discrimination movement, the national parliament was dissolved, a press release from the president's office stated. It further said that Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Khaleda Zia has been released from jail. The statement said that the process of releasing those detained in the student movement and various cases from July 1 to August 5 has begun, with many already being freed. Earlier in the day, BNP chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia was also released. In a statement on Monday, the president's press team said that a meeting led by Shahabuddin had "decided unanimously" to free Begum Khaleda Zia immediately. "The meeting has also decided to free all the people who have been arrested during the student protests," the president's statement added. Zia, 78, a former Bangladeshi prime minister, is confined to a hospital due to poor health. In 2018, she was found guilty of corruption and given a 17-year prison sentence. She and Hasina had a long-standing feud and she was accused of abusing her position of authority by stealing almost USD250,000 in donations intended for a trust for an orphanage, according to Al Jazeera. The BNP has claimed that the cases were made up to prevent Zia from entering politics; Hasina's administration, however, refuted these claims. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation with Sheikh Hasina, on August 5, tendering her resignation from her post in the wake of mounting protests. The protests, led majorly by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests. Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening and it is not clear if she will stay in Delhi or move to another location. Meanwhile, in Dhaka, leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, in a bid to address Bangladesh's ongoing challenge. (ANI) Terming India as a "big power" and "important country" Iran's Ambassador to India, Iraj Elahi on Tuesday said that there is an expectation that New Delhi can and should play a more active role in the current crisis in West Asia. Speaking to ANI, Elahi stated that India has good ties with Israel and can use its influence to stop the genocide in this region and Gaza and keep the peace in Palestine. On being asked about India's role amid the ongoing crisis in West Asia, the Iranian envoy said, "Since the beginning of the tragic events and crimes of Israel in Gaza, I repeatedly mentioned that India is an important country, is a big power and influential country in the international community. Beside this, it has good relations with Israel and Iran and also India, as a non-aligned movement founder had supported Palestine case in the history of the region." "So, there is an expectation that India can and should play more active role in the current crisis in the region and tensions in the region. You know, the government of India has very good relation with the ruling party in Israel and the government of Israel. So, it can use its influence to convince them to stop this genocide in the region and in Gaza and stop crimes and keep the peace in Palestine. From the Iranian side, we are in collaboration with India in many cases and we hope that, you know, we are trying to convince India to keep peace in the region," he said. Over 2000 Hamas terrorists breached Israeli borders on October 7, killing 1200 Israelis and taking around 250 as hostages, out of whom around 120 are still in Hamas captivity, with many of them feared dead. Following this, Israel launched a strong counteroffensive, carrying out military operations against Hamas in the Gaza Strip with the aim of "completely eliminating" the group. The tensions in West Asia have further escalated after Hamas' political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Iran's capital, Tehran on July 31. On July 31, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that Ismail Haniyeh had been killed in an attack in Tehran. A projectile hit a residence allocated to war veterans in Tehran at 2 am (local time), according to a Press TV report. Haniyeh, who was based in Qatar, travelled to Tehran to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the Iranian President-elect, Masoud Pezeshkian, according to a Press TV report. On August 1, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Thursday announced that Hamas military wing commander Mohammed Deif had been killed in an airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip on July 13. In a post on X, IDF stated, "We can now confirm: Mohammed Deif was eliminated."The Israeli military said that it obtained intelligence confirming his death in the past few hours. Deif was targeted in a strike at Hamas' Khan Younis Brigade commander Rafa'a Salameh's compound in Khan Younis area on July 13, The Times of Israel reported. A day later, the IDF confirmed the death of Salameh. However, it did not have final information on Deif. The IDF believed that its intelligence indicated that Deif visiting the compound belonging to Salameh was highly accurate and the two Hamas military officials were together in the building that was hit with several heavy munitions, according to The Times of Israel report. Meanwhile, the IDF said that top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr was killed in the Israeli strike in southern Lebanon on Tuesday (local time).The IDF said Shukr was "responsible for the majority of Hezbollah's most advanced weaponry, including precise-guided missiles, cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, long-range rockets, and UAVs" and for the terror group's "force build-up, planning, and execution of terror attacks against the State of Israel," The Times of Israel reported. On July 30, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that his nation has delivered "crushing blows" to enemies in the last few days, CNN reported. He made the remarks hours after the deaths of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh and senior Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr. (ANI) China is building naval vessels at a fantastic rate, eclipsing any other nation on earth by far. If the metric of the sheer number of naval hulls is used, then the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) is already a larger navy than its US counterpart. Of course, this is a poor measure of naval capability, but the fact nonetheless remains that the PLAN is growing at a tremendous clip. Beijing is well within its rights to do so, but Thomas Shugart, Adjunct Senior Fellow for the Defense Program at the Center for a New American Security, warned, "The problem fundamentally comes down to the fact that, although China is ultimately attempting to defend its regional waters, defend itself from attack from the Pacific and so on, it's doing that in a coercive way towards other nations ... The way that China is approaching this is in a very harassing and coercive manner, and it's that behavior that I think is going to be what drives the march towards conflict," Shugart was speaking at a webinar discussing the growing might of the PLAN, held by the Brookings Institute in the USA on 26 July. Using satellite imagery of China's principal shipbuilding yards, Shugart revealed the stunning capacity of its naval shipbuilding. China builds nuclear-powered submarines at Huludao, and he believes a new Type 093B attack submarine was visible there a couple of months ago. Three similar nuclear-powered submarines were also docked there, though it is difficult to differentiate those returning from repairs and others that are new-builds. However, Shugart believes he may also have identified a stern section for the new Type 095 class, since its hull had a larger diameter than existing designs. Moving to Dalian Shipyard, Shugart pointed out that five Type 052DL destroyers are simultaneously under construction there. "Pretty amazing," he exclaimed. At the nearby Lushun Shipyard is a new advanced corvette, possibly a test platform. Farther south in Shanghai's Jiangmen Shipyard are five surface combatants in various stages of construction. Shugart believes this is where China's next Type 004 aircraft carrier will be built. "I'm not able to find it yet, but still looking there," he related. In various shipyards, Shugart highlighted how China is utilizing dual civilian and naval shipbuilding. "People should understand that it's Western companies that are, to a significant extent, funding these shipyards." For example, when China was constructing its Shandong aircraft carrier in 2021, right next to it was a massive Taiwanese container ship. "We have to have no illusions about what this allows the Chinese to do," he said. China's fungible workforce can shift between naval and civilian ship construction, the latter in a fiercely competitive international market. "I worry that they may be even more efficient than our naval shipyards are. Because they're having real competition all the time, that's honing their edge." Nearby, at the new Hudong Shipyard in Shanghai, three frigates are under construction alongside what appears to be a Type 076 landing helicopter dock (LHD) ship optimized for drone operations thanks to an installed catapult. "This is the kind of thing that - when people say, 'Oh, well, the Chinese just copy what we do and there's nothing new there' - well, this is a class of ship that has no equivalent in the US. We have LHDs, we don't have any that have catapults for drones. I mean, that's a new thing the Chinese are doing. Quite frankly, I wish we saw more of that from our navy..." Wuchang Shipyard in Wuhan is "pumping out their conventional submarines and also civilian vessels," including a Type 039 for Pakistan. Next, at Huangpu Shipyard in Guangzhou are five frigates under construction at the same time. Emma Salisbury, a Seapower Research Fellow at the Council on Geostrategy in the UK, added, "The thing that really strikes me is to see a shipyard with five destroyers being built at the same time, five frigates being built at the same time, five submarines being built at the same time. That does not happen in the US. It does not happen anywhere else." She described the PLAN as "arguably the second most-capable blue-water navy, after that of the United States". Salisbury also noted the PLA "has the ambition of fully transforming into a world-class force by 2049, which is the centenary of the establishment of the People's Republic. While the Chinese leadership has not publicly defined what this means in practice, the strategic context implies that China is aiming to develop military forces which are at least equal to those of the great powers it views as a threat, most notably those of the United States." From China's point of view, the so-called First Island Chain is a barrier around its adjacent waters that constrains its access to the Pacific Ocean. This chain is dominated by US allies such as Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines. Salisbury said, "Control of the seas within the First Island Chain serves a dual purpose, to defend China from external attack through those waters, and to prevent others from being able to deny China access to the high seas beyond. Gaining control of Taiwan, the Senkaku Islands, Paracel Islands, Spratly Islands and other land features within the First Island Chain is viewed as the best way to secure those objectives." Nor does the PLAN work alone. The China Coast Guard is the largest maritime law enforcement fleet in the world, with an estimated 500+ vessels. Salisbury said, "China has tended to use the Coast Guard and the maritime militia in regional maritime disputes so far, and this trend is likely to continue given the close links between the PLAN, the Coast Guard, the militia and civilian vessels, plus their interwoven use in the maritime domain." She said full consideration of overall Chinese naval buildup must cover all these forces. Regarding the use of civilian vessels such as roll-on/roll-on ferries, Salisbury explained, "As there are no official numbers available, estimates vary wildly on how many civilian vessels could or would be made available to the PLAN during a conflict, much less how quickly they could be usefully integrated into military operations. However, some estimates contend that, if China requisitioned its entire dual-capable civilian fleet, that alone would give it more tonnage than the total American amphibious assault." Last year, China completed 42.3 million deadweight tons of merchant shipping, up 11.8% on the year before. This phenomenal total of ship construction equaled 50.2% of global output. China obviously has an extreme overmatch in shipbuilding, but China must be as worried as the USA about risks to its merchant fleet. Bruce Jones, Director of the Project on International Order and Strategy at the Brookings Institute, posited, "If you look at Chinese naval doctrine, if you look at what they're thinking about, if you look at how they write, it's clear that the first impulse, not necessarily the only one, but the first impulse, is to defend against potential foreign invasion, and to deny anybody else, namely us, from denying them the ability to flow goods through the through the South China Sea, East China Sea, to kind of choke off their imports." He speculated whether there will be a future of "mutually assured denial," where China cannot deny the US Navy (USN) from operating, but nor can the USA prevent China from operating at sea. "It sounds very bumpy to get there, but whether it might ultimately be stable, since neither of us have the slightest interest in denying the flow of goods through those waters, it strikes me as sort of a little bit illogical that we're at loggerheads over the question of denial." Chinese warships are generally smaller than their American counterparts. The Chinese fleet was traditionally mostly corvettes and frigates, but that is changing as larger ships are fielded. Shugart said, "If you look now where the average Chinese ship was 30-40% the size of the average American warship, now it's more like 60-70%. So they've closed that gap." Furthermore, the Type 055 cruiser is the world's largest surface combatant. He boldly predicted that by about 2035, the PLAN will equal the USN in terms of ship tonnage. He said the USA should therefore consider building naval hulls in Japan or South Korea if its own shipbuilding capacity cannot improve. China does not really have allies, whereas the USA does. Countries like Japan and South Korea provide a network of support and bases for the USN, as does the US territory of Guam. NATO navies can also take up the slack in the Atlantic, to a limited degree, to free up American ships to the Indo-Pacific region too. China does have vassals, however, and Shugart displayed a satellite image of Ream Naval Base in Cambodia. Despite China and Cambodia vociferously denying this is a base being used by the PLAN, there is evidence to the contrary. Two Chinese corvettes have been stationed there for months, and Shugart pointed out that a 140m-long dry dock built there by China is too large for Cambodia's own patrol vessels, especially since a ramp is situated nearby that can pull Cambodian naval vessels from the water. Interestingly, Shugart found an identically sized dry dock in Qingdao, which the PLAN uses for submarine maintenance. Referring to the Cambodian one, he said, "It's big enough for a submarine, which I think is kind of interesting. They definitely don't need it for the Cambodian patrol craft." Shugart added, "I'm not saying it's 100% sure this is going to be a submarine base, but it's interesting to me that there are some similarities there." There are qualitative differences between American and Chinese submarines. Nonetheless, Shugart said "all bets are off" regarding the future Type 095. "I have no idea how loud or quiet that one's going to be." He continued, "Different nations' submarine forces can be used for different things. We should remember that, whether we win or not, even in the undersea, it isn't so much a matter of whether our submarines beat their submarines, it's which side can more effectively use the undersea environment to achieve its defense objectives." He asserted that Chinese submarines could not be used to hunt American ones, describing it like hunting a deer with a Harley Davidson - "It's not going to work, they're going to hear you coming!" Instead China may use its submarines to blockade Taiwan, make life difficult for American aircraft carriers, or launch cruise missiles against Guam and Hawaii. He worries about insufficient money for new American submarines, plus 40% of the USN submarine fleet is in maintenance when that figure should be closer to 20%. However, the AUKUS fleet of submarines will help ease the USN's workload in terms of submarines, but these are going to take decades to build. Other allies add complementarycapabilities to the USA too; Shugart said nobody would want to be in a "dark alley" against a Japanese submarine in a strategic chokepoint in the First Island Chain, for instance. China has been sending anti-piracy naval task forces to the Gulf of Aden for the past 16 years. However, Salisbury highlighted: "This isn't through any charitable wish to destroy pirates to the good of the international community. It's a laboratory for them to practise blue-water operations. It's a way for their officers to get command experience on blue water, and it's a way to test their logistics lines and so on. That should give you an inkling of the fact that they're looking to expand outside of regional operations onto blue water, whether that's in the Pacific or the Indian Oceans or beyond." The Houthi missile and drone attacks in the Red Sea have also exposed the hollowness of Chinese promises, "because clearly they have not helped at all with trying to protect international shipping. And their ships, by agreement with the Houthis, are getting a free pass along with the Russian ones," warned Shugart. (ANI) Iranian Ambassador to India, Iraj Elahi said the current situation in West Asia is deteriorating amid escalating conflict between Israel and Lebanon, adding that there is no horizon in sight for the end of the "tragic trend" in Gaza. Criticizing operations by Israel, Elahi alleged that Israel's "crimes" in Gaza and Lebanon are continuing while terming the recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh as a "terrorist operation inside Iran" for which his country has vowed revenge. Speaking to ANI, the Iranian envoy on Tuesday said, "Unfortunately, the situation in West Asia is not good. The crimes of Israel in Gaza and Lebanon are continuing. Recently, we have witnessed a terrorist operation inside Iran, the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was an official guest in Iran." He further stated that all Palestinians have been displaced from Gaza. The Iranian envoy also criticized US' support to Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "The situation is escalating and deteriorating. Daily we are witnessing cases of innocent people increasing. 40,000 lives have been lost. So it is not just a figure. More than 90,000 have been wounded. All the Palestinians in Gaza have been displaced...there is no safe place. Displaced people are targeted by Israeli forces," Elahi said. He added, "Unfortunately, there is no horizon for the end of this tragic trend in the region...from another side, we are witnessing, full support of the United States to Israel and Netanyahu, who is responsible for this crime. There is no intention to stop this crime." Tensions West Asia have escalated following deaths of several key Hezbollah and Hamas leaders in quick succession. Last month, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr was killed in the Israeli strike in southern Lebanon on Tuesday (local time). This has been followed by intense strikes between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, sparking fears of a wider conflict. Highlighting several anti-Israel demonstrations in different parts of the world, the Iranian Ambassador further warned that the escalating conflict could spur further drawing more people into the conflict. "It's natural it will provoke the feelings, the heart of all people in the war, not only Muslim people in the war, but all people...as we witnessed demonstrations in Europe, Australia, the Middle East, in North America. So, if it continues it will affect...I hope those who are responsible, those who have influenced, Israel, especially United States...reach to this conclusion, that it should stop this ongoing trend...and this genocide," he stated. Speaking on Haniyeh's assassination, Ambassador Elahi reiterated Tehran's position that the Hamas leader was killed by a short-range projectile with a warhead of 7kg explosives and again blamed Israel for the attack. "According to the latest investigation, Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated by a short-range projectile with a warhead of 7-kilogram explosive materials. There is no doubt in Iran, and according to the proof and evidence, there is no doubt that Israel is behind this assassination. You know, besides this, it doesn't need Israel to accept the responsibility of this. You know, we have witnessed too much terror and assassinations which have been done inside Iran and outside of Iran, in the region, by Israel, that Israel did not accept. Logically, we can judge and conclude that Israel is behind this," the envoy said. Haniyeh was in Iran's capital for the inauguration ceremony of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian last month, when he was assassinated. Israel, which is at war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, has neither acknowledged nor denied killing Haniyeh. However, Iran has accused Israel for the attack and has vowed revenge. Being asked about Iran's warning of retaliation against Israel, the Iran envoy said it is the "inherent right" of Iranianas to defend their national interest and national security, adding that Tehran will take a decision on this. "Regarding the retaliation by Iran, we believe that we have the inherent right to defend our national interest and national security. But it depends on how we retaliate. It depends on the situation. There is no doubt about retaliation. We will make our decision about this, but there will be revenge," Elahi said. (ANI) US lawmakers Young Kim and Colin Allred introduced the 'Stopping PRC Environmental Exploitation and Degradation Act' (SPEED), which intends to counter the harmful environmental, ecological, and public health effects of investments linked to People's Republic of China (PRC) in Africa. China has become the largest trading partner, creditor, and investor through the Belt and Road Initiative in the African region. China's 'debt-trap diplomacy', often executed through BRI operations, can be destructive and harmful to local communities and key biodiversity areas situated in Africa, as per a media statement issued by the US lawmakers on Monday. "The PRC's Belt and Road Initiative coerces developing nations to fall into Xi Jinping's debt-trap diplomacy but also exposes vulnerable populations to harmful ecological, environmental, and public health risks," the release stated. Young Kim, who currently serves as chairwoman of the Indo-Pacific Subcommittee further said, "We cannot allow Xi Jinping to get away with growing his global power and violating international environmental and labour laws in the process. I am proud to lead the SPEED Act to counter the Belt and Road Initiative and hold the PRC accountable for its exploitative practices, deliberate environmental degradation, and threat to African communities' livelihoods." Colin Allred during the introductory session added, "We cannot allow the PRC and Chinese-linked companies to continue their exploitation of African nations as they subject their people to harmful ecological and public health risks. The bipartisan SPEED Act will strengthen US policy, authorize sanctions, and hold the Chinese government accountable for the adverse environmental, ecological, and public health incidents occurring in Africa." Reportedly, the SPEED Act would counter China's influence in Africa by establishing a US policy to oppose the actions of PRC-linked entities that do not abide by the laws of the host country, international environmental protection, and labour laws in their exploitation of natural resources in Africa. The Act will initiate strategy formation from the US State Department and USAID detailing how the US will work with sub-Saharan African countries to remediate environmental disasters caused by PRC companies. The act will also impose, sanctions on PRC-linked entities that are responsible for adverse environmental and public health incidents on the African continent. The act introduced by the US in its findings quoted a report titled 'China's Environment Abuses'. The findings of the report mentioned that "PRC threatens the global economy and global health by unsustainably exploiting natural resources and exporting its wilful disregard for the environment through its One Belt, One Road initiative." The bill also mentioned during the past 20 years, China has significantly increased its economic and business activities in sub-Saharan Africa. While legal systems across countries vary, business entities are generally bound by the laws of their home country, the host country, and international law. Chinese business entities are notorious for consciously violating the laws of their host countries and international law. China and Chinese private sector companies are destructive, and at times illegal, mining, drilling, logging, and fishing practices in sub-Saharan Africa cause high levels of concern and harm across sub-Saharan Africa. Many China-linked entities and Chinese PSCs in sub-Saharan Africa operate with little regard for ecology, public health, and the well-being of local residents and wildlife. (ANI) Political development in any member country has no impact on the functioning of BIMSTEC, said the regional group's secretary general Indra Mani Pandey on Tuesday. In an exclusive interview with ANI, the Secretary-General said the BIMSTEC focuses on technical and economic cooperation between member countries while staying away from political issues and internal political developments of the countries. His remarks come amid political turmoil in Bangladesh as Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister and fled the country amid ongoing widespread protest and violence. Being asked about the impact of political developments in member countries on the functioning of BIMSTEC, the Secretary General of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) stated that the organization remains unaffected by political crises in member countries. BIMSTEC comprises of seven member countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Its headquarters is located in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, which is embroiled in political violence. "BIMSTEC by nature has focused on technical and economic cooperation it has stayed away from political issues and internal political development of the countries. As far as activities under the BIMSTEC framework are concerned these developments have so far had no impact," he said. "All the countries have been regularly participating in all the meetings fact, recently we had foreign ministers retreat in Delhi hosted by Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in which all the member states participated similar in Myanmar there was a meeting of national security chiefs in which national security chiefs of all the member states participated so Bimstec has been a platform all the member states have been able to come together discussed matter which focuses on mainly corporation," he added. The Secretary-General is in Delhi for the BIMSTEC Business Summit. Sheikh Hasina resigned on Monday amid mounting protests, sparking unrest across the country. She arrived at Hindon Air Base near New Delhi aboard a C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft. Prothom Alo, a prominent Bangladeshi newspaper, reported that protesters set fire to the Awami League's Dhaka district office around on Monday. The agitators also targeted the office of Sheikh Hasina, the Awami League president in Dhaka. Protesters were seen chanting slogans and celebrating the news of her resignation. The demonstrations, initially led by students calling for the abolition of a quota system for government jobs, quickly transformed into a broader uprising against former Prime Minister Hasina and her ruling Awami League party. On Sunday, violent clashes in Dhaka resulted in at least 95 deaths, including 14 police officers, with hundreds more injured, as reported by Prothom Alo. (ANI) In the wake of violent riots in several parts of the United Kingdom, the Indian High Commission in the UK has advised Indian travelers to exercise due caution and stay vigilant while coming here. This comes as intense riots have gripped the UK, after the death of three children in Southport, northwest England last week. The High Commission of India in London is closely monitoring the situation, the release stated. https://x.com/HCI_London/status/1820727772471263294 It has also advised Indian citizens to follow local news and advisories to avoid areas where protests are underway. "Indian travelers would be aware of recent disturbances in some parts of the United Kingdom. The High Commission of India in London is closely monitoring the situation. Visitors from India are advised to stay vigilant and exercise due caution while traveling in the UK. It is advisable to follow local news and advisories issued by local security agencies, and to avoid areas where protests are underway," the advisory read. The Indian mission has also provided contact details for Indian citizens in case of emergencies. "In case of an emergency, the High Commission of India may be contacted as per details below: High Commission of India, London: Address: India House, Aldwych, London WC2B 4NA, Phone: +44 (0) 20 7836 9147, Email: inf.london@mea.gov.in," it stated. UK is struggling with the greatest social unrest it has seen in years after the knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga class in Southport. Several rioters on Sunday set fire to and broke into hotels designed to house asylum seekers in northern England, CNN reported. The far-right has been accused of inciting anti-Muslim and anti-immigration demonstrations by disseminating a surge of misinformation, including the allegation that the assailant was a Muslim immigrant. However, the police has confirmed that the suspect was born in Britain. To incite anti-Muslim and anti-immigration demonstrations, the far right has exploited and disseminated a surge of misinformation, including unfounded allegations that the assailant was an immigrant. Local officials said that demonstrators in Tamworth injured one police officer by throwing projectiles, smashing windows, and starting fires. Meanwhile, police in Rotherham reported that demonstrators broke windows, flung wooden planks, attacked policemen with fire extinguishers and set fire to other objects in an attempt to enter the premises. Just weeks after taking office, Keir Starmer's Labour government faces a formidable battle from the violent upheaval, which is the worst since the 2011 riots. In reaction to recent attacks, the UK Home Office declared on Sunday that mosques would receive "greater protection with new emergency security" in the country. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Sunday, condemned the protests and termed "violent thuggery" by the far right. In his video message on X, he issued a stern warning to those involved in the recent violence and riots and emphasized that the full force of the law would be brought to bear on individuals who participated in the violence, whether directly or indirectly. (ANI) Amir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, a senior leader of the radical political party, Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, has called a nationwide shutter down strike amid the ongoing protests in Rawalpindi, The Express Tribune reported. During a press conference on the sidelines of the Rawalpindi sit-in, Rehman announced that there would be a series of protests across Pakistan. Rehman said that on August 8, sit-in participants would march on Murree Road, followed by a significant protest outside the Chief Minister's House situated in Lahore on August 11 and another in Peshawar on August 12. These protests have been going on since July 27 demanding the termination or review of certain agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and demanding a forensic audit of all agreements. The leader, in his statement, highlighted the impact of rising electricity bills on household budgets. He further stressed that charges should reflect the actual cost of electricity. Taking a jibe at the Pakistan government, Rehman said the government's negotiation committee on the issue of electricity has vanished, saying, "We might have to advertise the disappearance of the government committee". Rehman further noted that the government was troubled as the sit-in disrupted their luxuries, and demanded that the negotiation committee should include the Auditor General of Pakistan, the Chairman of WAPDA, the Federal Chamber of Commerce, and consumer representatives, Express Tribune reported. Earlier, when the third round of talks was scheduled between both parties on Thursday, the government-appointed committee did not come. The Jamaat-e-Islami then warned the government that they would expand their protests countrywide if the government did not reduce the burden of taxes. At that time, Rehman had said that he would wait for a few days, but would expand their protest after that if the government failed to fulfill their demands. They demand the end of the petroleum development levy on all petroleum products and reduce the prices of these goods. They demanded a tariff reduction of 20 per cent in the prices of food commodities, electricity, and gas tariffs. The Jamaat-e-Islami demanded negotiations with the Independent Power Producers, especially regarding the clause of payments in US Dollars. They want a reduction in taxes imposed on the middle class and want it redirected to the privileged class. They further want a reduction in non-developmental expenses by 35 per cent. The party also wants the government to roll back taxes on stationery and other items used for children's training and education. As the talks between the Jamaat-e-Islami and the government remain in limbo, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman said that their movement is aimed at saving the people from Independent Power Producers (IPPs), who he alleged are "looting the masses." (ANI) China-Cambodia co-produced documentary "Hello Cambodia" inaugurated in Phnom Penh Xinhua) 10:25, August 06, 2024 PHNOM PENH, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- A China-Cambodia co-produced documentary titled "Hello Cambodia" was inaugurated in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, on Monday, aiming at further promoting cultural ties and people-to-people exchange between the two countries. The documentary was jointly produced by China's Guangxi Radio and Television Station and the National Television of Cambodia (TVK) from July 8 to 13, said a news release at the launching event. It recorded a group of 13 "young journalists" from south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, who visited Phnom Penh and Siem Reap cultural province to discover novelties and get close to history through intangible cultural heritage performances, study tours, and interviews with local children of the same age. Speaking at the event, Cambodian Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra said the documentary was one of joint activities to celebrate the Cambodia-China people-to-people exchange year 2024. "The documentary not only showcases the excellent cultural traditions of China and Cambodia, but also expresses the young generation's beautiful aspirations and wishes for the friendship between the two countries," he said. "I hope that the launch of the documentary will further enrich the connotation of people-to-people exchanges between the two countries and inject new vitality into the Cambodia-China people-to-people exchange year 2024," he added. Pheaktra said Cambodia-China cooperation has achieved fruitful results in recent years, bringing a lot of tangible benefits to the peoples of the two countries and becoming a model for the joint construction of the high-quality Belt and Road. "We will work with China to promote the construction of a community with a shared future between Cambodia and China in the new era and advance the continuous deepening of Cambodia-China friendship," he added. A Chinese official from the State Council Information Office hoped that the documentary will inject fresh impetus into building a high-quality, high-level, and high-standard China-Cambodia community with a shared future. The film will be aired on Guangxi Radio and Television Station channel and TVK channel as well as on social media platforms of both channels. "The documentary will help more Chinese friends understand Cambodia, and will promote closer exchanges between the peoples of Cambodia and China," TVK's director general Khim Vuthy said. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Guillermo Contreras has been with the Express-News for 20 years and has covered federal court and its investigative agencies for most of that time. He can be reached at guillermo.contreras@express-news.net He's also covered immigration, minority affairs and legal affairs as part of the projects team here and for other media outlets. Guillermo has also worked in Central America, Mexico, New Mexico, Arizona and California and his work has appeared in various publications, including the Los Angeles Times, New York Times, New York Post and Newsday. Earlier, Libya along with several other countries was on the list of New Delhi's travel ban list. The modified statement advises the Indian nationals to "avoid non-essential travel to Libya." "In partial modification of MEA's Press Release dated 23 May 2016 imposing ban on Indian nationals traveling to Libya and in response to our assessment of the prevailing security situation in Libya, Indian nationals are advised to avoid non-essential travel to Libya," the release stated. The MEA has also urged Indian nationals to exercise caution and stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Tripoli. It also provided an emergency phone number to contact the embassy: +218943992046 "Indian nationals in Libya are advised to exercise caution, avoid inter-province travel by road and remain in contact with the Indian Embassy in Tripoli at emergency phone number: +218943992046," MEA added. Last week, the Indian Embassy in Lebanon advised all Indian nationals to leave Lebanon as tensions escalated between Israel and Lebanon in the Middle East after the rocket attack at Golan Heights, followed by the killing of top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr. The embassy advised the Indian nationals to not travel to Lebanon till further notice. Meanwhile, it further advised the Indian nationals living in Lebanon to exercise extreme caution and avoid any movements. (ANI) It also asked them to remain in touch with the Indian embassy in Beirut. (ANI) China imposed sanctions on US lawmaker Jim McGovern accusing him of frequently interfering in Beijing's "internal affairs, Voice of America reported. McGovern has hit back at China saying that he will wear the sanctions "as a badge of honor." The statement by the US lawmakers intended to call on the Chinese government to end its oppressive actions in Tibet, Xinjiang, and Hong Kong. "These absurd sanctions against me only serve to highlight how People's Republic China (PRC) leaders are afraid of free and open debate. They seek to punish and silence those who disagree with them. But the world is watching what they do, and people who care about human rights will not be silent," McGovern stated. China placed McGovern under sanctions on Wednesday for frequently "interfering in China's internal affairs". Throughout his political career, McGovern has regularly raised the Tibetan cause and has sponsored a bill advocating for a peaceful resolution of the China-Tibet dispute that President Joe Biden signed into law on July 12 this year, according to the VOA report. China currently views Tibet as an "inseparable part of China" despite the Tibetan Government in Exile and the Dalai Lama claiming that Tibet has historically been independent. After the sanctions the representative's Chinese assets will be frozen, organizations or individuals in China from engaging with him, and ban him and his family from entering Chinese territory, according to a report from Xinhua, the Chinese state news outlet. However, the report claimed that McGovern, who represents the state of Massachusetts in the House of Representatives, has no assets or business dealings in China. Reportedly, the Tibet-China Dispute Act by McGovern gives the State Department increased authority to counter Chinese disinformation relating to Tibet. The act also promotes continuation of talks between Chinese leaders and the Dalai Lama however, none of these talks have occurred since 2010 relating to these disputes. In a statement released on June 12 this year when the bill, McGovern stated, "The PRC has systematically denied Tibetans the right to self-determination and continues to deliberately erase Tibetan religion, culture and language. The ongoing oppression of the Tibetan people is a grave tragedy, and our bill provides further tools that empower both America and the international community to stand up for justice and peace." As China currently stands accused of large-scale human rights abuses in Tibet, which the congressman had hoped to alleviate through this act, the VOA report claimed. Among the signees of the Act were House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul, Senator Todd Young, McGovern, and Senator Jeff Merkley. China on several occasions has imposed sanctions on other US lawmakers that challenge Chinese expansionist policies. Over the last year, China has sanctioned Representative McCaul and former Representative Mike Gallagher over their support for the issues faced by Taiwan because of the PRC. (ANI) The Hindu and Sikh communities in Canada celebrated the fifth anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 at an event on Monday. The event was held in a banquet hall in Mississauga City under the organizational platform of the Hindu Forum Canada. Over 150 people from Hindu and Sikh communities gathered at the event. They offered prayers and hailed the historic decision. There were arrangements for a dinner party along with DJ dance music to celebrate the occasion. The event ended up with Punjabi bhangra dances. Rao Yendamuri, the President of Hindu Forum Canada thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking the decision to abrogate Article 370 on August 5, 2019. A woman named Devi, who is the manager of Hindu Forum Canada hailed the abrogation and said the decision returned the rights of minorities in Jammu and Kashmir. "I just want to say that I'm so glad to be here celebrating the abrogation of Article 370 that has resulted in a lot of people suffering and their human rights being taken away. But with the abrogation, it was a movement that signified the return of their rights and the rights of minority non-Muslim communities that are residents in Kashmir and Jammu," she said. "This day marks a significant victory for the justice, freedom, and return of rights to Hindus and other non-Muslim religious minorities like Sikhs, etc. in Jammu and Kashmir, who have long endured struggles for basic human rights and justice. Today, Canadians, Hindus, and Sikhs, we are all very happy and we are celebrating together the fifth anniversary. And whatever the Modi government has done, nobody has dared to do it and we are very proud of it. And due to this reason, we are celebrating Article 370 obligation," another member present at the event said. Canadian Jewish political commentator, Daniel Boardman, congratulated India on taking the bold step five years back. "As a Jew, I know what happens when people talk about genocide," Boardman said. "You have to celebrate doing the right thing when it works out. If you remember back five years ago, many of the so-called experts were saying that this would cause catastrophe and the sky is going to fall and all these different things. But no, Kashmir got better because of that. And it's important to hammer that home and make that point," he added. Baloch leader, Zafar Baloch, drew a parallel line between the Pakistan Army's terrorism in Kashmir and Balochistan. "Baloch have dubbed CPEC as a corridor of death and destruction for Balochistan and its people who face brutal military operations, atrocities, and human rights violations," he said. "The terrorism in Kashmir, incited by Pakistan, and the violence that went with it. It's an orchestrated state sanctioned," Baloch added. Canadian journalist, Tahir Aslam Gora, also shed light on the future of Kashmiri Pandits in Jammu and Kashmir. Some Kashmiri Pandits also spoke on this occasion and lauded the decision of the Narendra Modi government. In August 2019, the Centre revoked Article 370, which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the region into two Union Territories- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. (ANI) As many as six Israel Defence Forces (IDF) soldiers sustained injuries after a barrage of rockets were fired from Lebanon in northern Israel on Tuesday, Times of Israel reported. The rockets were fired at the Galilee Panhandle and Golan Heights. One of the Hezbollah drones hit the Shraga Camp near Nahariya, sparking a fire. The troops were taken to hospitals for minor injuries, including ringing in their ears from the blast. Additional Hezbollah drones impacted the Nahariya area. Amid this, an Iron Dome interceptor missile malfunctioned, impacting a highway and critically injuring a motorist, as reported by Times of Israel. A total of 19 people were taken to Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya for treatment, including the critically wounded man, a woman in moderate condition, and 17 others in good condition. The hospital said some of the lightly wounded victims were suffering headaches and tinnitus, and others from acute anxiety. They have all been released from the medical center. This comes a day after senior Hezbollah, Ali Jamal al-Din Jawad was killed in an Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon. Jawad, who was a commander in Hezbollah's elite Radwan unit was struck in the southern Lebanon village of Aabba, the IDF said. Earlier, US Secretary of Defence, Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant and reaffirmed US' commitment to Israel against the threats posed by Iran, Hezbollah and other Iran-aligned militia groups. "Today, I spoke with Israeli Minster of Defense Yoav Gallant to reaffirm U.S. commitment to Israel's defense from threats posed by Iran, Lebanese Hizballah, and other Iran-aligned militia groups. We agreed the attack from Iran-aligned militias on U.S. forces stationed at Al-Asad Airbase in western Iraq marked a dangerous escalation, and I updated Minister Gallant on measures to strengthen U.S. military posture in light of this escalating situation," Austin said in a post on X. Tensions in West Asia have escalated following the deaths of several key Hezbollah and Hamas leaders in quick succession. Last month, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr was killed in the Israeli strike in southern Lebanon on Tuesday (local time). This has been followed by intense strikes between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, sparking fears of a wider conflict. (ANI) As the situation in Bangladesh worsened following Sheikh Hasina's resignation amid heavy protests, several former diplomats and experts have raised concerns about the scenario and asked the Indian government to remain vigilant. Several experts have cautioned about a huge influx of migrants from Bangladesh and have also raised suspicion of the involvement of a foreign hand behind the unrest in Bangladesh. This comes amid the crisis unfolding in Bangladesh as student protests against quota in job reservations turned into a major anti-government protest creating unrest and forcing Sheikh Hasina to resign as Prime Minister and flee from the country. Former Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Veena Sikri has termed the current situation in Bangladesh as "very volatile" adding that India is carefully watching the scenario as it wants a stable neighbourhood. Speaking to ANI, Veena Sikri said, "The situation in Bangladesh is very volatile today. PM Sheikh Hasina gave her resignation yesterday and she has left the country. She is currently in India and the situation is evolving. We have to watch carefully what is happening in Bangladesh." "We in India, are watching it very carefully because we want a stable neighborhood. We want there to be stability, economic development, economic interaction with Bangladesh," she added. She emphasized that although everyone thinks that the crisis unfolded due to the quota protests, but the fact is both Hasina and the students were on the same page on the issue. "The world thinks that it was a quota reform movement, a student's movement but the students and PM Hasina have for the longest time been on the same wavelength. It is PM Hasina who abolished the quota in 2018. This year, in the month of June, when the High Court restored the quota, she went to the Supreme Court, again in favour of the students and student groups even joined the government of Bangladesh in going to the Supreme Court," Sikri said. The former Indian envoy further elaborated how the student protests, turned into clashes between the student wings of Awami League and other opposition political parties, leading to complete "mayhem." "In between, there was a clash between the students and the Awami Chhatra League, so all the other political parties, the Jamaat-e-Islami, Shibir, which is their student wing, and BNP student wing, they all came onto the street and there was complete mayhem, complete chaos, violence, deaths," she added. Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty, who also served as Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, also elaborated on the situation and opined that the possibility of foreign hands behind the unrest can't be ruled out. "Bangladesh has seen many such crises in the past... It has happened because of many reasons, basically their internal ones. It cannot be ruled out that there are foreign forces in Bangladesh who did not want the Hasina government to continue...Her feelings and agony are understandable," Chakravarty told ANI. The former Indian envoy said that India will 'wait and watch'. He also cautioned against a huge exodus of Hindus from Bangladesh and said that there is a need to remain vigilant on the borders. "India will wait and watch the developments in Bangladesh. A new government will be formed and we will deal with it as we have done in the past. We have even dealt with military dictators in Bangladesh after 1975...Some people are taking advantage of the chaos to attack Hindu homes, and temples, and to loot their property. There could be an exodus of Hindus from Bangladesh...Alertness on the borders is a pre-requisite to deal with this situation," he added. Defence Expert Brigadier Ranjit Borthakur (Retd) also raised concerns about the Bangladesh situation and said it is a "very worrying situation" for India. "What has happened in Bangladesh, especially yesterday, is of great concern to us. I won't say Sheikh Hasina fled, she left Bangladesh but with due support of the Armed Forces...It's a very worrying situation as far as India is concerned. Of all the neighboring countries, we had the best of relations with Bangladesh," Borthakur said. He said that the Sheikh Hasina government had tackled several northeast insurgent groups, but the new government of Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Jamaat-e-Islami are believed to be 'anti-India'. "Earlier, all northeast insurgents' militant groups had bases in Bangladesh, which were removed when Sheikh Hasina came to power...The new government is likely to have elements of Jamaat-e-Islami and BNP, which is anti-India. During the previous BNP government in the country, many terrorist camps were established in Bangladesh," the defence expert said. "Jamaat-e-Islami has been supporting fundamental religious activities in the country and along the border, particularly in Assam, Meghalaya, and Tripura... If there are attacks on Hindus, they are likely to attempt to cross the border to come to India for shelter. Second, if inimical anti-India elements are housed in Bangladesh, they'll cause problems for us," he added. Brigadier Ranjit Borthakur also asserted that there is a need to check Chinese influence and raised suspicion on the role of Pakistan's ISI. "We also need to check for Chinese influence in the sequence of events...Many say that Pakistan's ISI also has a role to play...The present Army Chief has assured that the new government will be balanced for both Hindus and Muslims," he added. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation with Sheikh Hasina, on August 5, tendering her resignation from her post in the wake of mounting protests. The protests, led majorly by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, took the shape of anti-government protests. Earlier in the day, President Mohammed Shahabuddin, announced the dissolution of the country's parliament to make way for the formation of an interim administration, Dhaka Tribune reported. In another major development, BNP chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia was also released. Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening and it is not clear if she will stay in Delhi or move to another location. Meanwhile, in Dhaka, leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, in a bid to address Bangladesh's ongoing challenge. (ANI) President Droupadi Murmu hailed the long-standing relationship between India and Fiji while terming the role of the Indian diaspora in the island nation as a "source of inspiration" for the entire world. She was addressing the Indian community in Fiji during an event on Tuesday. Addressing the event, President Murmu said, "It is always a special feeling to meet members of the Indian community and the Indian diaspora whenever I travel abroad. Fiji is a country with which we have a special and enduring bond dating back 145 years. So it is a great pleasure to meet all of you here." She lauded the government of India's decision to launch Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards to further deepen the ties with Indian diaspora. "Keeping in mind the interests of our diaspora, the Government of India has launched several initiatives including the Overseas Citizen of India Card or OCI Card, to further deepen ties with the Indian diaspora, and to meet their needs. For the younger generation of migrant families, we have the 'Know India Programme' to connect them with their Indian roots. I am very happy to know that a good number of Fijian youth have taken advantage of this programme." She emphasized that India has played key leadership roles on the global stage as a capable and responsive India emerges. "The historic success of our G-20 Presidency last year demonstrated what India's inclusive, decisive, ambitious, and action-oriented leadership can do for the world. As we did during our G-20 Presidency, we will continue to use every global platform to strongly voice the interests of the Global South and strive to build a fair, equitable, and secure world for future generations," Murmu said. The President also thanked the Fiji government for recognizing the contribution by Girmits and their descendants and declaring 'Fiji Day' to recognise their contribution. "I also thank the Government of Fiji for recognizing the contribution made by Girmits and their descendants in building modern Fiji during the recently held "Girmit Day" celebrations. In this regard, the special step taken by the present Fiji government in declaring "Girmit Day" as a National Holiday and making Hindi the official language in the Parliament are exemplary examples," she further said. Highlighting the role of the Indian diaspora in foreign countries including Fiji, she called it a source of great inspiration for the world with a "wonderful legacy." "While Indian diaspora has left its mark in almost every country, your extraordinary journey to Fiji in particular is a source of great inspiration to the world. The determination shown by the pioneer generations, their struggle and sacrifice amid many hardships, and their subsequent success, is a wonderful legacy. We remember all of you today, and your ancestors, and pay tribute to them," the President said. Earlier in the day, President Droupadi Murmu was conferred with 'The Order of Fiji', the country's highest civilian award by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji on Tuesday. President, as a part of her visit to the South Pacific nation, also addressed the Fijian Parliament. President Murmu embarked on Sunday on a three-day visit to Fiji at the invitation of Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, President of Fiji. Following Fiji, she is scheduled to visit New Zealand and Timor-Leste. The visit, which marks the first-ever visit by a Head of State from India to Fiji, will give further impetus to the historic ties between the two countries, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) earlier press release. The visit reflects India's continued commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations with Fiji. On the second leg of her visit, President Murmu will visit New Zealand from August 7-9 at the invitation of New Zealand's Governor General Dame Cindy Kiro, according to MEA press release. (ANI) Nepali security agencies have heightened vigilance across the border and at the Bangladesh Embassy in Kathmandu following political changes in Dhaka. The security agencies are on high alert to prevent unauthorized entry from Bangladesh via India, as people may seek refuge. In Kathmandu, security around the Bangladeshi Embassy has been increased to prevent possible protests and gatherings. "We have increased vigilance around the Bangladesh Embassy in Kathmandu and areas where Bangladeshi nationals in Nepal might gather for any occasion relating to the political change back there. We have an open border with India, and we have coordinated with the SSB, India, and are patrolling jointly alongside the border to prevent illegal entries," DIG Kumar Neupane, Spokesperson of the Armed Police Force (APF), confirmed to ANI over the phone. Chief of Nepal's Armed Police Force, Raju Aryal, also held a telephone conversation on Tuesday with Bharatiya Sima Surakshya Bal (Indian SSB)'s DG Daljit Singh Chaudhary about increasing surveillance. Nepal's Home Ministry has issued a circular to the security agencies to prevent possible entries from Bangladesh in the wake of political changes. According to officials from the security agencies, forces along the Nepal border have been advised to "return those Bangladeshi nationals who haven't completed the visa process." Nepal's intelligence agency has alerted the security agencies of possible demonstrations in Kathmandu by Bangladeshi nationals in Nepal ahead of the political turmoil in their home country. The Armed Police Force has increased patrols along the border with India in Jhapa, Morang, and Sunsari districts. The Home Ministry has also directed security bodies to heighten presence and surveillance at all border crossings. Bangladesh, which had remained tense since last month, saw Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resign and leave the country on Monday. Hasina has applied for political asylum in the United Kingdom, which is expected soon. A helicopter transporting her flew to India's Hindon Air Base near New Delhi in a C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft. The aircraft's movement was monitored by the Indian Air Force and security agencies from its entry into Indian airspace to the Hindon air base in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad. Celebrations and protests were reported across Dhaka and Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina tendered her resignation and left the country accompanied by her sister. After Hasina resigned and left the country, many people entered the Ganabhaban, the residence of the Prime Minister. Protestors were seen decamping with various items from public buildings. A crowd was also noticed inside the Parliament building, with people taking things from inside. Protesters set fire to Sudha Sadan, the private residence of Sheikh Hasina's family in Dhanmondi, Dhaka. A fire was set inside the house, and protestors were seen taking items out. Protesters also vandalized the residence of the Chief Justice. Several people were seen entering the Chief Justice's residence by climbing over its wall, and commotion and vandalism were reported from inside. Various items in the residence were taken away. Protesters set fire to the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Memorial Museum at 32 Dhanmondi. The agitators also set fire to the Dhaka district office of the Awami League on Monday. (ANI) The White House is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh, urging a democratic and inclusive interim government formation, said Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre in a press briefing on Tuesday. She commended the army's restraint and encouraged all parties to refrain from further violence and restore peace. "We're monitoring the situation in Bangladesh very closely. We have long called for respecting democratic rights in Bangladesh, and we urge that the interim government formation be democratic and inclusive," the White House Press Secretary said in a press briefing on Bangladesh's ongoing political turmoil. "We commend the army for the restraint they have shown. We encourage all parties to refrain from further violence and restore peace as quickly as possible," she added. Furthermore, the US expressed concern and sadness over reports of casualties and injuries, offering condolences to those affected and emphasizing the importance of a credible investigation into all attacks and accountability by the new government. "We express our deep concern and sadness about the reports of casualties and injuries over the weekend and past weeks. We share our deepest condolences with those who lost loved ones and those who are suffering," Jean-Pierre said. "It will be vital for the new government to carefully and credibly investigate all attacks and provide accountability," she added. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation after Sheikh Hasina resigned from her post amid mounting protests. The protests, primarily led by students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs, evolved into broader anti-government demonstrations. Celebrations and protests were reported across Dhaka and Bangladesh. After Hasina's resignation, many people entered the Ganabhaban, the residence of the Prime Minister. Protestors were seen decamping with various items from public buildings. A crowd was also noticed inside the Parliament building, with people taking things from inside. In Dhaka, the leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus to address Bangladesh's ongoing challenges. Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening after tendering her resignation. It is unclear if Sheikh Hasina will continue to stay in Delhi or move to another location later. (ANI) The search for a single-engine airplane was suspended by the Bahamian military Monday night, a U.S. Coast Guard official said. Searches began Sunday when the airplane and pilot were reported missing by the Federal Aviation Administration after it was considered overdue for arrival, having taken off from Sebastian Municipal Airport earlier that day. The BRM Aero Bristell plane was last known to be roughly 50 miles northwest of Freeport, Bahamas, and was reported missing in a FAA alert to inform local authorities a search was needed for a missing aircraft. The U.S. Coast Guard Seventh District in Miami sent a plane and helicopter to search Sunday after receiving notification of a "downed aircraft" near the Bahamas, but concluded Sunday evening with no results, said Petty Officer 3rd Class Nicholas Strasburg. "On Monday, we did conduct a three-hour search with an Air Station Miami air crew," said Strasburg. It was first reported there was no Coast Guard involvement beyond Sunday's initial search, but Strasburg said the early Monday search was their last effort. The Royal Bahamas Defence Force took over the search Sunday and made no requests for assistance from the Coast Guard, he said. Despite no requests for assistance, the Coast Guard plane conducted what Strassburg said was a "first-light" search Monday but found no evidence of the plane or pilot. The Royal Bahamas Defence Force notified the Coast Guard around 10 p.m. Monday the search was considered suspended with no results. "They suspended it, and they did not find anything," Strasburg said. The Coast Guard did not have information about the pilot or any potential plane occupancy and deferred questions to the Federal Aviation Administration. The FAA did not provide further information about the pilot or possible aircraft occupancy. The Sebastian Municipal Airport did not return requests for comment by phone. The Royal Bahamas Defence Force did not respond to email inquiries. More: Rain still in forecast this week from Tropical Storm Debby remnants More: July 22 was the hottest day on Earth since 1940; here's the Treasure Coast temperatures Corey Arwood is a breaking news reporter for TCPalm and Treasure Coast Newspapers. Follow @coreyarwood on X, email corey.arwood@tcpalm.com or call 772-978-2246. This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Bahamas suspends search for airplane missing after departing Sebastian How business leaders are responding to Kamala Harris selecting Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate Business leaders are sharing their thoughts on Kamala Harris tapping Tim Walz as her VP pick. Mark Cuban and Reid Hoffman both praised the Walz selection. Meanwhile, Elon Musk commented under several posts on X that were critical of Walz. Vice President Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, a decision that brings onboard a Midwesterner and former public school teacher to the national Democratic ticket. Before his election as governor, Walz served in Congress for 12 years, and as governor, he's signed into law a raft of Democratic priorities on everything from reproductive rights to gun control. Many Democrats believe his Nebraska upbringing and experience with rural issues will allow him to counter GOP vice-presidential nominee JD Vance on issues affecting working-class Americans. President Joe Biden praised the governor shortly after the announcement was made, arguing that the Harris-Walz ticket would be "a powerful voice for working people." And Democratic lawmakers from across the ideological spectrum, from Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, were largely supportive of the Walz pick. Should Walz become vice president, he'd be an integral economic messenger in a Harris administration. Here's how business leaders are reacting to Harris' selection of Walz as her running mate: Elon Musk Elon Musk. ALAIN JOCARD/ Getty Images Though the Tesla CEO didn't post on X directly about Walz, Musk boosted some posts on the platform about him. Musk commented "" on a post comparing the flag of Minnesota to that of Somalia, noting how Walz "turned his home state into Somalia and now he wants to do the same to our country." Musk also commented "!!" on a Libs of TikTok post criticizing Walz's executive order protecting gender-affirming care. Musk noted on July 13 that he "fully" endorsed Donald Trump , noting he would donate $45 million a month to the pro-Trump America PAC. Musk has been under pressure to make changes to X's Grok, its AI search assistant tool that has spread false election information concerning Harris. Musk previously posted on X after Biden's withdrawal that he believes "in an America that maximizes individual freedom and merit. That used to be the Democratic Party, but now the pendulum has swung to the Republican Party." Reid Hoffman Reid Hoffman. Kimberly White/Getty Images The cofounder and executive chairman of LinkedIn posted on X that Walz is "a lifelong public servant who represents the best of our country." "A dedicated teacher, former guardsman, an advocate for women's health, and a family man, he cares deeply about America's future," he continued. "Together, Harris and Walz will fight for everyoneno exceptions." Hoffman, who has blasted business leaders for supporting Trump, noted on X that Walz has "fostered a pro-business climate, attracting substantial investment and positioning the state as a top contender for business development." Hoffman in January donated $2 million to the Granite for America super PAC in support of Biden's campaign. Hoffman was quick to back Harris as the Democratic nominee shortly after Biden dropped out of the race, noting that Harris "is the right person at the right time." Mark Cuban Mark Cuban. Allen Berezovsky via Getty Images. The entrepreneur and "Shark Tank" investor praised Walz on X, noting how he can "sit at the kitchen table and make you feel like you have know [sic] him forever." Cuban noted that Harris "went from worst to first" and said it's not a reach for Walz to have the same transformation. In fact, Cuban believed that Harris' and Walz's non-Ivy League pedigree would be arguably more attractive to voters than Trump and Vance. "People are tired of the ideologues and hate from both parties," he wrote in an X post on Tuesday. "They want to vote for normal people they can relate to." In a comment, Cuban noted that Walz "never pardoned the May 2020 Minneapolis hostages," referring to the George Floyd protests. Cuban, who supported Biden even after his faulty debate performance, was among the first business leaders to post after Biden dropped out, writing on X, "Father time is undefeated." Shawn Fain Shawn Fain. Jim Vondruska/Getty Images Shawn Fain, president of the United Auto Workers, praised Walz shortly after the announcement, noting how he has "been a great governor and is going to make for a great Vice President." "He's stood with the working class every step of the way, and has walked the walk, including on a UAW picket line last fall," Fain said. The UAW, in a separate post on X, noted that Walz "doesn't just talk the talk, he walks the walk." Walz has fought for increased labor protections as governor, including guaranteeing sick time and implementing paid family and medical leave. The 2023 laws also gave blue-collar workers more safety protections. Liz Schuler Liz Shuler. Courtesy of the AFL-CIO The president of the AFL-CIO, the US' largest federation of unions, took to X to state she is "Thrilled to continue working with you both to make our unions and working families stronger." "Governor Walz isn't only an ally to labor he's our union brother with a deep commitment to a pro-worker agenda," the AFL-CIO wrote on X. "Labor stands united behind the HarrisWalz ticket and ready to help lead the effort to defeat Trump, Vance and their Project 2025 agenda." Aaron Levie Box cofounder and CEO Aaron Levie. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images Box CEO Aaron Levie cheered Harris' pick as "fantastic" in an X post Tuesday, citing Walz's balance between compassion and "pro business policy." Levie, a Harris supporter who previously praised Biden for stepping down, also railed off a slew of flattering stats about Walz. "Minnesota is ranked #3 for happiness, #2 for Fortune 500s per capita, #6 for businesses, and #2 for life expectancy," Levie wrote. "And he was the 7th most bipartisan member in congress." Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian responded to Levie's post with a joke about the similarly high-ranking status of the "juicy lucy" a famous cheese-stuffed hamburger hailing from Walz's home state of Minnesota. Mark Pincus "Frightening. Walz likes Omar the Paly squad member," Zynga founder Mark Pincus said on Tuesday, referencing Tim Walz's support for Rep. Ilhan Omar. Stefanie Keenan via Getty Images Mark Pincus, the founder of gaming company Zynga of FarmVille fame, didn't seem to be on board with Harris' running mate pick. "Frightening. Walz likes Omar the Paly squad member," the Jewish businessman wrote in an X post on Tuesday. Pincus's remarks were made in response to a video clip of Walz voicing his support and admiration for Rep. Ilhan Omar. The Minnesota congresswoman was criticized after she'd described Israel's war in Gaza as a genocide. Pincus had earlier supported Biden's decision to end his reelection campaign, though he did signal his preference for an open convention instead of letting Harris take over directly. It's not just Walz. It seems that Pincus would rather someone else be the Democratic nominee instead of Harris. On Saturday, Pincus said in an X post that he wished the Democratic Party had South Carolina's former governor Nikki Haley as their candidate after she'd called for the US to maintain its support for Israel. Read the original article on Business Insider The 'Genius of Connecticut' under the dome of the state Capitol. (Yehyun Kim/CT Mirror) HARTFORD, Conn. Connecticut state officials Monday outlined a new safety program for home health care workers that will include GPS monitoring and escorts to potentially risky clients. The program comes in response to the murder last year of a visiting nurse who was killed when she went to administer medications to a registered sex offender. Nearly every one of the politicians who spoke at Mondays press conference at the state Capitol mentioned Joyce Graysons name and said that the $6 million in state funding to implement a home safety program for her fellow home health care workers is in her memory. Grayson, 63, was allegedly murdered last October by Michael Reese when she went to the Willimantic halfway house where he was staying to administer his medications. Reese was charged with murder, felony murder and attempted first-degree sexual assault after police found Grayson strangled to death in the basement and found Reese carrying her car keys and bank cards. Reese is being held on a combined $3 million bond and is scheduled to appear in Danielson Superior Court on Sept. 13. We know that the nature of this work frequently exposes those workers to various risks and challenges, DSS Commissioner Andrea Barton-Reeves said. So ensuring their safety and their well-being is of paramount importance. This in-home safety Grant Program offers funding for a comprehensive array of safety enhancements. Among the initiatives: providing emergency response buttons to each worker for quick access to assistance; the implementation of a buddy escort system to ensure the safety of staff members during visits to high-risk areas; distribution of GPS tracking devices to monitor the location and safety of home health workers in real time; and establishing dedicated phone lines for staff in the field to access immediate support and report safety concerns. The state will use $6 million in American Rescue Plan money to fund the program, at least initially. State Sen. Martha Marx, D-New London, who is a home health care worker, said it was a little sad that it took Joyces murder to get here but that the new program will increase safety of home care workers. Marx said that all home health care workers at one time or another have been threatened physically or verbally by a client, but it just took the murder of Joyce Grayson to elevate it for everyone to realize it really can happen and it can happen again. Marx said she believes that Grayson could have survived if some of these new requirements were in place. If she had had that device where she could have pushed that button, so that the whole neighborhood maybe could have heard that something was happening yes, it would help her, Marx said. The Grayson family has hired the Reardon Law Firm of New London to represent them. Kelly Reardon on Monday put out a statement on the familys behalf regarding the states initiative. If Joyce Grayson was given an emergency alert button or GPS tracker by her employer, it is very likely she would be alive today. These inexpensive devices should be available to all home health workers in Connecticut, the statement reads. The family has filed a lawsuit against the parent company that owns Elara Caring, where Grayson was working, alleging that they emphasized profits over staff safety and routinely sent workers into environments they knew were dangerous. Reardon said they also have filed a claim with the state Claims Commissioner seeking approval to sue the state over Reeses placement in the halfway house despite his being a registered sex offender as well as on probation for a violent crime. When asked about Reeses release, Gov. Ned Lamont said he didnt have specifics on how Reese came to be placed in the Willimantic halfway house. I dont know the story on this one. But it didnt work out, did it? he said. Reese was Graysons first appointment that morning, and phone records and surveillance video show her red Hyundai Sonata arriving at 106 Chapman St. in Willimantic around 7:37 a.m., according to the arrest warrant. Not even 20 minutes later, the red Hyundai was at the Sun Mart Smoke Shop & Convenience Store on Main Street, where cameras captured Reese walking in and using an ATM, according to the warrant. Records showed that Reese had taken $202.25 out of Graysons account, it said. Reese was wearing an ankle bracelet because he was on probation from a previous offense that also required him to register as a sex offender. Police using GPS data recorded by the ankle bracelet and surveillance video discovered that Reese drove around downtown Willimantic and went to a Liberty Bank on Main Street and withdrew another $203.50 of Graysons money. Surveillance video from the bank showed him looking at a piece of paper that had her PIN number written on it, the warrant said. Willimantic police started looking for Grayson after her daughter called police concerned that she had not shown up at her other appointments scheduled for that day. She told police that in tracking her mothers cellphone through the Apple Find My app, it showed she still was at 106 Chapman St., where Reese lived, the warrant said. When police returned to the Chapman Street house, they saw Reese leaving from the back door and walking toward a bike path, the warrant said. He had a knife, which the officer took; he also had a crack pipe, Graysons credit and debit cards and her cars key fob, the warrant said. When police went into the house, they found Grayson dead in the basement, the warrant said. Grayson, 63, worked for Elara Caring as a visiting nurse for 15 years. She also was a mental health nurse for the state Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services for 26 years. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX McKee says he will include an 'assault weapon' ban in next year's budget. What we know. PROVIDENCE Just endorsing a ban on military-style rifles hasn't been enough to make one a reality, so Gov. Dan McKee on Tuesday said he plans to propose such a ban in his state budget for next year. Speaking to reporters about Democratic vice presidential nominee and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz after a State House news conference, McKee said he wants to show that an "assault weapon" ban is a priority and raise the level of attention it gets from lawmakers. "We're all in on the ... gun issues to make sure that I'm putting it in front of the General Assembly next year, that I get an assault weapon ban. I'm going to roll it right into my budget next year," McKee said Assault-style weapon ban hasn't progressed in the General Assembly An assault-style weapons ban was a highlight of McKee's 2023 State of the State speech. And he was part of a rally with all of the other four statewide officeholders in support of the legislation that year. This year organized labor put its weight behind the issue. But again the assault-weapon ban bill made no progress in the Assembly, where Senate President Dominick Ruggerio's support for gun rights make it a longshot. What will the proposal look like? McKee's announcement that he would make gun control part of the budget came in an aside about the things he shares with Walz and included no further details. Presumably it will be based on this year's bill, sponsored by Barrington Democratic Rep. Jason Knight, which would have made it illegal for anyone in Rhode Island to "manufacture, sell, offer to sell, transfer, purchase, possess or haveunder his or her control an assault weapon." McKee spokeswoman Laura Hart said proposing the ban in the budget "emphasizes that it is a priority" for the governor. Since the House of Representatives rewrites the budget the governor proposes each year, and can easily leave any specific piece out of it, including the ban in the annual spending plan does not necessarily make it any more likely to pass. But it should draw more attention and get at least an additional House and Senate hearing. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: McKee will propose an 'assault weapon' ban in next RI budget Douglas County Election Commissioner Brian Kruse points to the changed form for requesting an early voting ballot in Douglas County, Nebraska. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner) LINCOLN Nebraskans, check the mail this week if you regularly vote early in Nebraska elections and filed a standing request with your county election commissioner to do so again. Election commissioners in Douglas, Lancaster and many other Nebraska counties recently mailed ballot request cards to people on their regular early voter lists. Douglas County has mailed out 160,000 cards. Lancaster County mailed out 64,000 of its blue postcards Friday. People can return the early voting application forms to a county election drop box in their county or their county elections office. No tally of postcards statewide The Nebraska Secretary of States Office records the number of early voting ballots requested. It does not tally the reminder forms sent reminding voters they can request ballots. Douglas County Election Commissioner Brian Kruse reminded voters they have to request an early voting ballot for each election. He said he hopes people use the postcards to request their ballot because he said it helps streamline the process. People who voted early in the May primary do not automatically receive a ballot by mail. Theyll have to return the new postcard or fill out a request form for the general election, he said. People not on the early voting lists can request an early ballot from their county election office or download a form from the Secretary of States Office. The application must be filled out and returned to a voters home county. Kruse said his office is expecting 150,000 early voting requests. He and other election officials encouraged people to request ballots sooner rather than later in case forms need fixing. Dont wait for deadline The deadline for requests is close of business Oct. 25. New this year is a requirement that voters requesting an early ballot provide a drivers license number or state ID number on the request form. Voters who would prefer another means of verifying their ID can include a photocopy of a drivers license, state ID, passport, military ID, tribal ID, college ID or a few more options. Relatively few problems were reported in May, during the first statewide primary since Nebraska adopted voter ID. But election officials said they want to prepare voters who skipped the primary. Of 95,000 votes cast in Douglas County in May, 11 people cast special provisional ballots because they forgot to take their ID to the polling place, election officials said. What that tells me is Douglas County and Nebraska voters have accepted and understand the new law, Kruse said. Even if they dont agree with it, theyre complying with it. The first ballots by mail will be sent to voters Sept. 30. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Recreational marijuana sales begin in Ohio. Here's where you can buy it in Greater Akron. Customers line up outside The Botanist, a marijuana dispensary in Akron, Ohio, on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Editors note: A previous version of this story stated that Bloom Medicinals was selling recreational marijuana in Summit County starting Tuesday. The Beacon Journal was informed by the business that aren't selling recreational marijuana and are unsure when they will start. For those Ohioans wanting to purchase recreational marijuana, the wait is finally over: starting Tuesday, you can buy weed for recreational use across Ohio. After Ohioans voted to legalize marijuana for adults 21 and older last November, the Division of Cannabis Control said Monday that it awarded 98 dual-use certificates of operation to medical cannabis dispensaries entering the adult-use market. A certificate of operation doesn't mean sales will immediately begin at that location. State officials noted that decision is up to individual businesses and depends on staffing and stock. Ohio recreational marijuana sales: What to know if you visit a dispensary Recreational sales will start throughout the state on a rolling basis, with businesses receiving certification as they meet DCC requirements, division spokesman Jamie Crawford told the Beacon Journal in June. Here's a look at where you can purchase recreational marijuana in Northeast Ohio: Where can I buy recreational weed in Summit County? Culture Cannabis Club - 1568 E. Archwood Ave., Akron The Botanist - 46 S. Summit Street, Akron FRX Health - 1682 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls Is Curaleaf in Cuyahoga Falls selling recreational weed? Curaleaf in Cuyahoga Falls doesn't sell recreational marijuana yet, but it will start Wednesday. What is Greenleaf Apothecaries? Greenleaf Apothecaries LLC operates The Botanist in Akron. According to a Beacon Journal report, it also runs Botanist locations in Canton, Columbus, Cleveland and Wickliffe. Where can I buy recreational weed in Portage County? Bliss Ohio - 331 E. Main St., Kent (starting Thursday) Supergood - 554 N. Chestnut St., Ravenna Where can I buy recreational weed in Cuyahoga County? Amplify - 22803 Rockside Rd., Bedford Amplify - 1782 Coventry Rd., Cleveland Heights Ayr Dispensary - 27900 Chagrin Blvd, Suites 900B and 900C, Woodmere Bloom Medicinals - 382 Blackbrook Rd., Painesville FRX Elyria Craft Cannabis Medical Dispensary - 709 Sugar Ln., Elyria Nectar Medical Cannabis Dispensary - 21100 Saint Clair Ave, Euclid RISE Cleveland - 1222 Prospect Ave E., Cleveland RISE Lakewood Detroit - 18607 Detroit Ave, Lakewood RISE Lakewood Madison - 11818 Madison Ave, Lakewood RISE Lorain - 1920 Cooper Foster Park Rd W, Lorain Shangri-La Dispensary - 4618 Saint Clair Ave, Cleveland Terrasana - 10500 Antenucci Blvd Ste. 200, Garfield Heights The Botanist - 30133 Euclid Ave, Wickliffe The Botanist - 3865 Lakeside Ave E., Cleveland The Citizen by Klutch - 5152 Grove Ave, Lorain The Landing Dispensary - 1978 W 3rd St., Cleveland Therapy Medical Cannabis (Green Power) - 13429 Lakewood Heights Blvd., Cleveland Where else can I buy recreational weed in Ohio? This embedded content is not available in your region. The Cincinnati Enquirer contributed to this report. Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@gannett.com, or on Twitter @athompsonABJ This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Where to buy recreational weed in Akron, Summit County area When Donald Trump called Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee a RINO, the former president and GOP presidential nominee insulted an ally who has been nothing but deferential to him. The Republican In Name Only offense signals that someone is a fraud, a phony or a turncoat. The two men happened to back different candidates in a state legislative Republican primary race on Aug. 1, and after Trumps choice won, he lashed out in an ugly way. It is not surprising because Trump has a history of deriding those he sees as rivals, opponents or threats. But Lee is none of those. Instead, he is someone who often says in speeches, civility is a strength, not a weakness, even when he is getting jeered as he was during his 2024 State of the State address. While it would be uncharacteristic of the governor to go tit-for-tat with Trump, Lee should consider saying something because standing up to bullies is not uncivil. Competition in primary elections should be healthy, not toxic In July, Lee, who chairs the Republican Governors Association, spoke at the Republican National Convention. He lauded and publicly agreed with Trump for calling school choice the civil rights issue of our time. Jul 16, 2024; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee delivers remarks during the second day of the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum. The second day of the RNC focused on crime and border policies. Mandatory Credit: Mark Hoffman-USA TODAY Lee backed several legislative candidates in the primary who agreed with his position on expanding school vouchers from three to all 95 Tennessee counties. One of them happened to be incumbent state Sen. Jon Lundberg, R-Bristol, the pro-voucher Education Committee Chair. His opponent was Trump-endorsed Bobby Harshbarger, a pharmacist and son of District 1 U.S. Rep. Diana Harshbarger. Ironically, Bobby Harshbarger is not pro-voucher, and on the night he defeated Lundberg, Trump posted this on his social media platform Truth Social: I went 10 for 10 on endorsements tonight in the Great State of Tennessee, including Bobby Harshbarger, running against a strong, long-term incumbent supported by RINO Governor Bill Lee. A Great Day for Tennessee now on to a Complete and Total Victory in November. MAGA 2024. Was adding RINO even necessary? The expression with friends like these, who needs enemies? comes to mind. Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp shows a roadmap for taking on Trump Political candidates win and lose races, but Lee did not deserve this slap in the face from a man he publicly endorsed. It merits a response not just for his own reputation, but to show the public that while he might support Trump, neither the governor nor the State of Tennessee will be his doormat. Lee can look to the example of his neighbor to the south, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, who was lambasted by Trump during a recent rally. Trump called Kemp disloyal and a bad guy, and he even took a swipe at the governors wife. Kemp posted this response on X: My focus is on winning this November and saving our country from Kamala Harris and the Democrats - not engaging in petty personal insults, attacking fellow Republicans, or dwelling on the past. You should do the same, Mr. President, and leave my family out of it. My focus is on winning this November and saving our country from Kamala Harris and the Democrats - not engaging in petty personal insults, attacking fellow Republicans, or dwelling on the past. You should do the same, Mr. President, and leave my family out of it. pic.twitter.com/m8y6CSuZKY Brian Kemp (@BrianKempGA) August 3, 2024 Trumps insults will not sway his most ardent supporters to switch their allegiance. We have seen this time and again. However, attacks against someones basic values and integrity should not go unanswered. I suspect that a turn the other cheek philosophy may be behind Lee letting go Trumps knock at him. I can understand that, but civility is about acting respectfully and also encouraging others to do the same. Perhaps the response could be as simple as: President Trump, Im not a RINO and you were in the wrong to say so. Congratulations on your victory. Lets do better as we go into November. Trump might lash out again, but at least there would be some accountability for his words. Addendum: After this column originally ran on Tennessean.com, The Tennessean political reporters asked Governor Lee about the RINO accusation. Here's what he said: I can't really explain what that was about," Lee said. But yeah, I mean, it doesn't change anything about how I feel about what we're doing or where we're going. And everybody has their own style. The president has his. And you know, I certainly am hopeful that his style leads to him continuing to lead and be elected." David Plazas is the director of opinion and engagement for the USA TODAY Network Tennessee. He is an editorial board member of The Tennessean. He hosts the Tennessee Voices videocast and curates the Tennessee Voices and Latino Tennessee Voices newsletters. Call him at (615) 259-8063, email him at dplazas@tennessean.com or find him on X at @davidplazas. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Trump callously insults Republican ally Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee Saitama, Aug 06 (News On Japan) - Saitama Prefecture has seen a series of suspicious fires this month, with two new incidents reported in residential areas of Kuki City. In Kuki City and Okegawa City, seven suspicious fires have occurred over five days this month, including the complete destruction of wooden houses and vinyl greenhouses. One person has been injured in these incidents. According to investigative sources, it has been confirmed that on August 4th, two new suspicious fires occurred in Kuki City, including a case where newspapers were set ablaze. One of the victims said, The police asked to see the matches we use at home. When asked if there was any unusual usage, the victim responded, No, there isnt. The suspicious fires have all occurred within a three-kilometer radius. The police are investigating the possibility that these incidents are part of a series of arson attacks by the same perpetrator. Source: ANN Saitama, Aug 07 (News On Japan) - A 61-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson in connection with a series of nine suspicious fires in Saitama. The fires occurred within a 3-kilometer radius in Kuki City and Okegawa City, causing significant concern among local residents. Despite denial of the charges by the suspect, Fumio Okuma, police found matches in his possession, which he claimed to always carry despite not smoking. The fires, which began earlier this month, have led to the destruction of multiple properties, including warehouses and a house. All nine fires are now confirmed as suspicious. Okuma's brother, when interviewed, described him as an ordinary person and mentioned that he was unaware of any worries his brother might have had. The police are continuing their investigation to determine Okuma's potential involvement and motive behind the arsons. Previously: Seven Suspicious Fires in Five Days in Saitama Source: ANN Police officers stage in a hallway at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde on May 24, 2022. A ballistic, rifle-rated shield was a missing piece of equipment, but that should not have stopped officers from intervening much more quickly. In this photo from surveillance video provided by the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District via the Austin American-Statesman, authorities stage in a hallway as they respond to the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, May 24, 2022. (Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District/Austin American-Statesman via AP) Associated Press No doubt, if police in Uvalde had a rifle-rated ballistic body shield, they could have quickly rushed the classroom door at Robb Elementary School on May 24, 2022, ending the carnage and potentially saving lives. Such a shield can stop rounds from an AR-15 rifle, and as the Express-News reported last month, officers responding to the mass shooting immediately requested one from the U.S. Marshals Service, a Texas Ranger and through a general call across police radio. But it took 42 minutes for a shield to be delivered, and by then, the scene had become chaotic and confusing, with no clear direction. The lack of such a shield contributed to the 77-minute delay before members of a U.S. Border Patrol tactical unit breached classrooms 111 and 112 and killed the shooter. Nineteen children and two teachers died in the Robb Elementary School massacre, making it the second-deadliest school shooting in American history. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Given how often AR-15 rifles are used in mass shootings, every police department, no matter how small or rural, should invest in these shields and have policies to quickly deploy them upon request. As the Express-News reported, the cost for such shields range from $3,000 to $12,000. As the tragedy of Uvalde makes clear, the cost of inaction is incalculable. While these shields are necessary in the United States, the lack of such protection does not absolve the officers for the confusion and delay that defined the response at Robb Elementary. As has been well-documented, the standard policy for mass shootings since the 1999 Columbine High School massacre is for responding officers to engage the shooter, even if it means putting their lives on the line. It is part of the expectations of the job. As Fred Rogers famously said, Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping. But in Uvalde, when children were trapped in a classroom with a gunman, the helpers waited in the hallway. No amount of missing equipment changes this fact. It is a burden the officers will have to live with. Nevertheless, the need for a ballistic body shield to stop rounds from an AR-15 demonstrates the many layers of tragedy that contribute to our national epidemic of gun violence and the uniquely American horror of repeated mass shootings. If federal lawmakers passed commonsense gun reforms such as universal background checks, red flag laws and an assault weapons ban, perhaps law enforcement officers wouldn't need a ballistic body shield. AR-style rifles are designed for combat, but civilian purchases have soared since the federal assault weapons ban expired in 2004. Advertisement Article continues below this ad AR-style rifles have been used in the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre; the 2016 Pulse Nightclub massacre; the 2017 First Baptist Church shooting in Sutherland Springs, just outside of San Antonio; and the 2018 shooting in Parkland, Fla. This is but an incomplete list. With no end in sight to our epidemic of gun violence and with lawmakers incapable of passing another assault weapons ban, much less other popular reforms, a shield that can protect responding officers from AR-style weapons is a necessity for every police department. PARIS, Aug 07 (News On Japan) - Kenichiro Fumita won the gold medal in the men's Greco-Roman 60kg wrestling category at the Paris Olympics, defeating China's Li Guo Cao, claiming Japan's first gold in Greco-Roman wrestling since 1984. In the semifinals, Fumita triumphed over reigning world champion Zholaman Sharshenbekov (24, Kyrgyzstan) with a 4-3 victory, advancing to the finals. Reflecting on his journey, Fumita expressed, "I want to put all my emotions from the past three years into this match." In the high-stakes final, Fumita entered the arena with his hand on his chest, letting out a loud shout. After a bow, he took to the mat, engaging in a power struggle from the start. Fumita scored the first point due to his opponent's passive approach and gained two additional points with a roll from the parterre position, leading 3-0. In the second period, Fumita conceded one point for passivity within the first 50 seconds but maintained his defense from the parterre position. Displaying a composed and tactical performance, Fumita fended off his opponent's attacks and withstood the final onslaught, ultimately defeating Cao 4-1. This victory avenged his loss at the Tokyo Olympics and earned him the gold medal, a first in Greco-Roman wrestling for Japan in 40 years since Miyahara's 1984 win. Source: TBS By George Oshogwe Ogbolu The Benue State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced the suspension of former Governor Samuel Ortom due to alleged anti-party activities. Naija News reports that Ortom, an ally of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, was accused by the state chapter of leading and abetting the snatching of election materials during the recent Ward Congresses. This was made known in a statement on Monday signed by the Secretary of the party in Benue State, Joseph Nyam. The party stated that the action of the former governor resulted in the non-conduct of congresses in several local government areas, including Buruku, Gboko, Ushongo, Guma, Tarka, Kwande, and Ohimini. Ortom was suspended alongside three others; Isaacs Mffo, Azua Ashongo and Bemgba Iortyom. Naija News earlier reported that the PDP in Benue State is embroiled in turmoil following the alleged suspension of State Chairman, Sir John Ngbede, State Secretary, Joseph Nyam, and State Organising Secretary, Moses Audu by the State Working Committee (SWC). This suspension was announced in a statement released on Monday in Makurdi by Chief Bemgba Iortyom, the partys state publicity officer. According to the statement, the three leaders were handed a one-month suspension due to accusations of impersonation and inciting disruptions during the recently concluded ward congresses, among other charges. They have been summoned to appear before a disciplinary committee to address the allegations. The statement reads, The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Benue State has suspended three members of its State Working Committee from office for a period of one month with immediate effect. The affected officials are the state chairman, John Ngbede; the state secretary, Joseph Nyam; and the state organizing secretary, Moses Audu. The action was carried at an extraordinary meeting of the State Working Committee of the party on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at which nine out of the 13 members were present and assented to the decision. The suspended members are accused of forging and impersonating the State Working Committee to achieve their individual aims, instigating violence and crisis during the just concluded Ward Congresses of the party, and mismanagement of the finances of the party, among other things. They have been directed to appear before the disciplinary committee of the party to answer the charges brought against them within the period of their suspension. The State Deputy Chairman, Isaac Mffo, is now the State Chairman of the PDP in Benue State in an acting capacity. The PDP family and the general public should take note. Nigers oil exports are under threat, as armed rebels have warned of more attacks on the pipeline designed to carry oil to neighboring Benin, prompting a Chinese state-owned petroleum company to recently suspend all construction at the Agadem oilfield in eastern Niger. Recent months have seen a series of attacks by the Patriotic Liberation Front (FPL) on the PetroChina-funded Nigerien pipeline designed to carry oil from Niger to Benin for international export. In late July, the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) said that the security situation at the site has deteriorated after terrorist groups carried out a number of attacks targeting oil projects on 12 June. The FPL has claimed responsibility for disabling part of the pipeline and warned of more attacks at a time when Nigers crude oil exports are crucial to the countrys growth plans. The rebel group, which calls for the reinstatement of Nigers democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum who was later overthrown in a coup, claimed it had targeted the pipeline on the night of 16 June as a first warning to the junta in Niamey. The FPL initially stood in opposition to Bazoum, but it is now fighting for his release and warned the military junta currently in power it is ready escalate its actions into a full-scale assault on the nearly 2,000 km-long pipeline. Though the pipelines oil is vital to the economies of both Niger and Benin, relations between the two West African neighbors have been tense since the July 2023 coup, Moroccan flag carrier Royal Air Maroc said it will resume direct flights linking Casablanca and Beijing starting 20 January 2025, and will launch Casablanca-Toronto route on 8 December this year. The airline will operate three flights weekly between Morocco and China, after nearly a five-year halt suspension due to the Covid 19 pandemic. RAM will be using its Boeing 787-9 long haul airplanes with a capacity of 302 seats, the company said in a statement. The route will benefit tourists and trade between the two countries, RAM CEO Hamid Addou said in a statement. As it seeks to diversify its tourist emitting markets, Morocco sees enormous opportunities in the Chinese market, which has 130 million tourists traveling abroad annually and spending generously. Morocco has lifted visa requirements for Chinese citizens in 2016, during a visit by King Mohammed VI to the country. As to the Toronto new route, RAM said it expands its transatlantic network with non-stop service to Casablanca. RAMs Toronto Pearson-Casablanca flights will start December 8, with service operating on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The flights will be operated on a 274-seat Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft. This is the airlines second route serving Canada. RAMs North American network currently serves Montreal, as well as a selection of U.S. airports these being New York Newark, Washington-Dulles and Miami. The flight is part of a plan to strengthen networks in the Americas. RAMs CEO Hamid Addou says the new route to Toronto responds to the high demand from Moroccans residing in Casablanca and Ontario. Immigration, notably, also continues to be strong to Canada from Africa. It will significantly enhance the existing service offered by the airline, which has had the historic Casablanca-Montreal route since 1975 and currently operates two flights per day, Addou told Morocco World News. Royal Air Maroc will be the third carrier to offer flights between Africa and Toronto-Pearson, adding to flights offered by Ethiopian Airlines from Addis Ababa and Egyptair from Cairo. The new Toronto service also offers connections to destinations such as Madrid, Barcelona, Tunis, Milan-Malpensa and Cairo. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz at the State Capitol in 2022. (Glen Stubbe/Minneapolis Star Tribune/TNS) Glen Stubbe/TNS Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, third from right, and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, center, join an Indigenous Peoples Day Sunrise Ceremony at Bde Maka Ska in Minneapolis, Minn. on Monday, Oct. 9, 2023. (Kerem Yucel/Minnesota Public Radio via AP) Kerem Yucel/Associated Press FILE - Vice President Kamala Harris greets Governor Tim Walz, right, at Planned Parenthood, March 14, 2024, in St. Paul, Minn. (AP Photo/Adam Bettcher, file ) Adam Bettcher/Associated Press Kamala Harris' new running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, has talked a lot in recent weeks about building up the middle class, making it more affordable to raise children and protecting public education. But he has thoughts on the border, too. In an interview posted last week on the Ezra Klein Show, Walz was asked about Gov. Greg Abbotts migrant busing campaign, in which the Texas governor sent more than 100,000 migrants to Democratic-led cities, often without any coordination or advance notice to their elected officials. The effort has slowed in recent months as border crossings fell. Say what you will about him, but Texas Gov. Greg Abbott began busing migrants around the country and creating genuine crises in different cities in doing that, Klein said. And he did it in a very low way he didnt offer coordination but the fact that these cities went into such dangerous politics when they began getting migrants who actually were in Texas suggests the problem in Texas is pretty bad. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Klein, a former policy reporter who works for the New York Times opinion section, went on to say that the episode was an example of how voters can grow resentful of Democrats, because they feel like a problem is tolerated. I think its a reasonable read, Walz responded, adding, When theyre asked if its a crisis, you need to answer, 'Yes, its a crisis.' And then deal with it. I dont disagree that Gov. Abbott is pointing out some of these things, Walz said, but he treats it in the most cruel, inhumane way. Walz said the country should be working to help protect the electoral system in countries where people are fleeing authoritarian rule and political violence namely Venezuela. And he pointed to a bipartisan bill pushed earlier this year by Sens. James Langford, R-Okla., and Kirsten Sinema, D-Ariz., that would have toughened asylum standards, created a threshold to temporarily close the border when crossings rose, and surged courtroom and deportation resources to the border. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Texas' two Republican senators helped block the measure, saying it would do too little to slow crossings. But the attacks from Republicans also came as former President Donald Trump urged GOP members to deny Joe Biden a political win in an election year. Texas shouldnt by itself absorb or pay for this problem; we should all collectively figure out how to do it, and that was Langford-Sinema, Walz said. And Donald Trump didnt want it. In a statement on Tuesday, Abbott slammed the decision to tap Walz for the ticket, calling him a radical leftist. Tim Walz will be a rubber stamp for Kamala Harris' deadly open border policies, refusing to admit there is a border crisis, opposing border wall funding, and supporting sanctuary cities, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Walz in the past has voiced support for making Minnesota a so-called sanctuary state by banning state and local law enforcement from working with federal agencies on civil immigration enforcement. During his 2018 campaign, Walz told CBS News that his position boils down to who has the responsibility for enforcing immigration laws. Heres what I believe: Congress has given federal agencies the authority to enforce immigration laws in Minnesota, and I support their doing so. Congress has not given local law enforcement that same authority, Walz said at the time. The role of law enforcement is to enforce state and local laws, not federal immigration laws, and I strongly believe that they should not do so. He argued that Minnesotans are safer when local police focus on local crimes, and when everyone, including immigrants, feel safe cooperating with police. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Marrakechs judicial police arrested on Monday an 18-year-old, suspected of being a supporter of the terrorist organization ISIS. The suspect has reportedly been planning large-scale terrorist attacks targeting sensitive sites within the Kingdom, according to a statement from the Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations (BCIJ). The operation, conducted on intelligence provided by the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST), led to the seizure of electronic equipment, a plastic bottle containing a suspicious liquid, and a quantity of chemical powder, which are now undergoing analysis by the relevant authorities. Preliminary investigation findings reveal that the young suspect had adopted Daeshs extremist ideology and pledged allegiance to its self-proclaimed emir. He had reportedly acquired expertise in manufacturing explosive devices as part of his plan to execute a subversive project. Further inquiries indicate that the suspect had also established contacts with ISIS intermediaries to facilitate his joining one of the organizations branches in the Sahel region. The coordinated effort to arrest the suspect and thwart his terrorist plans underscores the effective collaboration between the DGST and foreign intelligence services. The suspect is currently in custody under the judicial investigation led by the BCIJ. The investigation aims to uncover the full extent of the extremist activities he is accused of and to identify any potential connections with other terrorist organizations. Finland became the latest country and the first Nordic country to formally support the autonomy proposal under Moroccan sovereignty as a solution to the Sahara conflict. This came in a joint statement following talks in Helsinki between Finnish FM Elina Valtonen and her Moroccan counterpart Nasser Bourita. Finland considers the autonomy plan presented in 2007 as a serious and credible contribution to the UN-led political process and as a good basis for a solution agreed upon between the parties, the statement said. Echoing the UN language, Finland urged progress towards a political process aimed at reaching a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution. In this respect, Finland stressed the exclusivity of the UN process as a framework to settle the dispute, while reaffirming support for UN security Council resolutions and the efforts of the UN envoy for the Sahara. Finlands new position is a state position, involving all spheres of the state, within the executive and legislative branches. It was made in consultation with the President and following consultations at the Government level and at the level of the Parliament Foreign Affairs Committee. This new position actually marks a substantial evolution compared to the countrys former stand, which consisted in supporting the efforts of the United Nations. Finlands support for the autonomy plan is part of an international momentum in favor of a solution to the Sahara conflict within the framework of Moroccos sovereignty. It came a few days after France clearly expressed support for the autonomy plan for the Sahara under Moroccos Sovereignty and said autonomy was the only basis to end the conflict. It is also part of the momentum within the European Union, Finland becoming the 17th EU member state to support autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty. In the joint statement, Finland also stressed that as a stable country, under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, Morocco has reinforced its position as a key regional player. Finland recognized Moroccos key position as a gateway between Africa and Europe, its important role in the EU-Africa partnership at large, as well as its decisive contribution to the enhancement of regional cooperation and stability in the region, the fight against terrorism and cooperation on cross-border migration management, adds the statement. Following the re-election of Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, Mauritania unveiled the line-up of a new cabinet, led by Prime minister Mokhtar Ould Diay. The new government has 29 ministers, many of whom are Morocco-educated. Prime Minister Diay is a graduate of Moroccos data and statistics postgraduate school in 1997. Defense minister Hanana Ould Sidi graduated from Meknes military academy in 1978, which was also attended by several current Sahel and African leaders. Sidi Yahya Chikhna Lemrabet was appointed Islamic affairs and education minister. He graduated with an MA degree in fisheries in El Jadida in 2001 and is also a recipient of another masters degree in science from Moulay Ismail university in Meknes. Agriculture minister Memma Ould Beibata attended Hassan II agronomic school in Rabat 1982 to 1983 and then went to an agricultural engineering school in Meknes between 1983 and 1987. Kenya has officially submitted the candidacy of historic opponent Raila Odinga to succeed Chads Moussa Faki Mahamat in the race to chair the African Union Commission, Nairobi announced in a press release. The election is due to take place in February 2025. Following the principle of rotation, it is the turn of the East African region to present candidates. Raila Odinga announced his candidacy at the beginning of the year. He has since won the support of the Government, which said the remarkable life and exemplary career of the Honorable Raila Odinga make him the ideal person to head the African Union Commission. Raila Odinga, for his part, said he was dedicated to bringing home the siege. The calls of the opposition leader and presidential loser to William Ruto in 2022 for demonstrations against the government paralyzed the country for several weeks last year. Many observers see a rapprochement between the two men in recent months, with William Rutos support for Raila Odingas candidacy. This rapprochement has been all the more commented on since last week, when the President appointed four members of the opposition party to his new government. Both parties, however, deny any alliance. The stakes are also strategic for the Head of State. Political analyst Dismas Mokua points out that if Raila Odinga wins this mandate within the African Union, he will have to step back from Kenyan politics and therefore from the 2027 presidential election. Kenya still has to convince African states to vote for its candidate. Nairobi claims to have already received several endorsements, including from Uganda, Zimbabwe, and Algeria. Several other countries in the region have announced their candidacies, including Djibouti, Somalia, and the Seychelles. This August 6 is the deadline for applications. The United States has concluded its military presence in Niger, transferring control of its last base to local authorities. This marks the end of a crucial hub for American counterterrorism operations in the region. The handover of Airbase 201 in Agadez follows the recent withdrawal from Airbase 101 in Niamey, adhering to the September 15 deadline set by Nigerien authorities. With this departure, only a small contingent of American personnel remains in Niger, primarily for administrative tasks related to the withdrawal process. This shift comes after Nigers ruling junta terminated the agreement allowing US troops to operate in the country earlier this year. The withdrawal signifies a major change in regional dynamics, as Niger was previously seen as a key Western ally in combating jihadist insurgencies in the Sahel. The US and France had maintained a significant military presence in the area, investing heavily in military assistance and training. Nigers pivot away from Western partners towards Russia for security support adds another layer of complexity to the situation. The countrys decision to oust American troops following last years coup has broad implications for US counterterrorism efforts in the region, particularly against groups like JNIM, which operates across several countries in the area. This development underscores the changing landscape of international security cooperation in West Africa and the challenges facing efforts to combat extremist groups in the Sahel region. Tunisias authoritarian leader kais Saied is paving the way for his re-election by sending his rivals to jail under bogus charges. The manipulation of the judiciary is the most recent episode in a process of power consolidation by Saied who has destroyed the countrys checks and balances, gearing Tunisia to its pre-Arab Spring authoritarianism. On Monday, four potential candidates were indicted on the charge of vote buying- which they denied. They are Abdel Latif Mekki, activist Nizar Chaari, Judge Mourad Massoudi, and another candidate, Adel Dou. All the four politicians had voiced their intention to run for the presidential elections. Potential candidate, Abir Moussi, also a prominent opponent of Saied, has been sentenced the same day to two years in prison, on a charge of insulting the election commission. Last month, a court in Tunis handed an eight-month prison sentence to leader of the Republican Union Party Lotfi Mraihi, an outspoken critic of Kais Saied. The same court banned Mraihi from running for election for life accusing him of using money to influence voters, a charge he denied. Issam Chebbi, a leader of the main opposition National Salvation Front who was arrested in February 2023 for plotting against the state, dropped out of the race on Thursday, his party said. Tunisias rights watchdog I Watch denounced complicated procedures and a methodical absence of transparency for elections in the North African country. Battery-powered Ford F-150 Lightning trucks under production in Dearborn, Michigan. Photo: Jeff Kowalsky/AFP via Getty Images Donald Trump, politically speaking, is handing Kamala Harris the keys to a shiny new electric vehicle one that Harris and the Democrats might ride all the way to the White House. I will end the electric-vehicle mandate on day one, thereby saving the U.S. auto industry from complete obliteration, which is happening right now, Trump said near the start of his acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention. He brought up the subject again toward the end of the speech, nearly 90 minutes later: By the way, Im all for electric. They have their application. But if somebody wants to buy a gas-powered car, gasoline-powered car, or a hybrid, theyre going to be able to do it. And were going to make that change on day one. There is no such thing as an electric-vehicle mandate only a set of aggressive investments from the Biden-Harris administration that includes buyer tax credits of up to $7,500 per vehicle, as well as $7.5 billion paid to states for a national network of charging stations and $1.7 billion in federal grants to help automakers update, change, or expand factories making electric vehicles. Harris has been taking credit for that federal spending, often cutting the ribbon on plant expansions. As a candidate in 2019, she floated a plan for $10 trillion in federal investment to transition the U.S. economy to renewable energy by 2045. Its doubtful she will revive that mega-plan, but her current support for EVs lets her ride a popular wave: Last year, Americans bought a record-high 1.2 million electric vehicles, more than quadruple the number sold in 2019 and now about 8 percent of the U.S. market. Politically, what matters most is not where those vehicles are bought and used areas that tend to lean Democratic but where the cars and trucks are manufactured: mostly in key states like Michigan, Wisconsin, and Georgia. Interestingly, two-thirds of the Electoral College votes that will pick the president from five swing states are cast by big EV investment states, says Mike Murphy, who spent years as a top Republican strategist and is now CEO of the EV Politics Project. There are 30,000 new EV-manufacturing jobs in Michigan, 40,000 in Georgia, and theyre the best-kept secret in our economy now, he told me. Murphy is warning Republicans not to ignore the jobs and money going to car building, which are at least as popular as Trumps vow to end support for EV manufacturing. GOP Gov. Brian Kemp has avoided joining Republican EV bashing. He understands this is the biggest industrial investment in Georgia history, Murphy wrote in Politico. And have no doubt that Michigans Democratic governor Gretchen Whitmer will pound the EV jobs issue all year long; Michigan ranks second in new electric vehicle manufacturing investment. Lose Michigan and Georgia, and you are well on the way to losing the presidential race. That leaves Trump in an awkward position. Opinion surveys show Republican voters are less enthusiastic about EVs than their Democratic neighbors are, and they get downright turned off by arguments that EV use is good for the environment. Twenty-seven percent of liberals own or are considering an EV, higher than for any other subgroup, the Gallup polling organization found earlier this year. Meanwhile, the seven percent market among conservatives essentially ties with senior citizens as the lowest among subgroups. Conservatives and Republicans are the two groups with the highest percentages saying they wouldnt consider an EV. That might explain Trumps tendency to bash federal spending on EVs. Attacking the industry also dovetails with Trumps long-standing calls to charge high tariffs on foreign trade. Right now, as we speak, large factories, just started, are being built across the border in Mexico. So, with all the other things happening at our border, and theyre being built by China to make cars and to sell them into our country, no tax, no anything, he said in his RNC speech. The United Autoworkers ought to be ashamed for allowing this to happen, and the leader of the United Auto Workers should be fired immediately, and every single autoworker, union and nonunion, should be voting for Donald Trump because were going to bring back car manufacturing and were going to bring it back fast. A fact-check by the Associated Press found no large Chinese car factories being built in Mexico apparently, Trump made that part up but it seems clear hes hoping to repeat the magic of 2016 when he won Michigan by a razor-thin margin of 11,000 votes. Trump lost the state in 2020 by 154,000 votes, but recent polls show the state is in play once again with Harris holding a 1.2-point lead on average. Back in 2016, Trump managed to snag the votes of many rank-and-file union workers even though their union, the UAW, endorsed Hillary Clinton. This time around, Trump is openly attacking the UAWs president, Shawn Fain. You probably have to get rid of this fool, this stupid idiot representing the United Auto Workers, Trump said at a rally in Grand Rapids in July. (The union recently endorsed Harris, citing, among other things, the fact that she walked a picket line during a 2019 strike.) A final complication for Trump is his support from Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla. Im for electric cars. I have to be because, you know, Elon endorsed me very strongly, Trump recently told the crowd at a campaign event in Georgia. So I have no choice. He then immediately backpedaled by specifying that he backs EVs as only a small slice of the auto industry. Its a mistake to think a Harris victory or the trend toward electric vehicles is predestined or inevitable. A generation ago, President Jimmy Carter famously installed 32 water-heating solar panels on the West Wing of the White House. His successor, Ronald Reagan, had the panels removed; a high-ranking White House official felt that the equipment was just a joke, according to one account. More important, Reagan canceled a tax credit that gave homeowners incentives to use solar power. Whether the U.S. moves forward with an aggressive transition to EVs or lets the initiative stall is one more issue to be settled on November 5. Chuck Schumer and Ben Cardin, two of the nine Jewish Democratic senators. Photo: Mario Tama/Getty Images Republicans are already rolling out a broad array of attacks against Kamala Harriss freshly minted running mate, Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota. Some involve empty assertions that hes some sort of radical, compounded by outright smears, as illustrated by Trump-Vance campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt. The New York Times reports: Walz is obsessed with spreading Californias dangerously liberal agenda far and wide, said Karoline Leavitt, a Trump campaign spokeswoman. If Walz wont tell voters the truth, we will: Just like Kamala Harris, Tim Walz is a dangerously liberal extremist, and the Harris-Walz California dream is every Americans nightmare. Later on Fox News, Ms. Leavitt opened a more aggressive line of attack by falsely saying Mr. Walz wanted to defund the police and describing the streets of Minneapolis as literally burned to the ground during riots after a Minneapolis police officer was filmed murdering George Floyd in May 2020. This is all par for the course in MAGA-land discourse, where the only tactic ever devised for dealing with Trump-Vance extremism is to suggest that the other team is really nutty. But theres one argument circulating in the wake of the announcement about Walz that is not only a lie and a smear but is also really stupid: the claim that in preferring Walz to Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro, Harris or her party is revealing their innermost character as antisemitic. No less an authority than Republican senator Tom Cotton says so: Let's be clear: Kamala didn't *cave* to the antisemitic, pro-Hamas wing of the Democratic Party. She *belongs* to the pro-Hamas wing of the Democratic party. Tom Cotton (@TomCottonAR) August 6, 2024 Yes, thats right: We are supposed to believe that the woman married to Jewish Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff is a Hamas-loving friend of antisemites, if not an antisemite herself. But Cottons hardly an outlier here. His partys vice-presidential nominee, J.D. Vance, said in advance of the Democratic-veep announcement that if Harris did not choose Shapiro, it would be out of antisemitism in their own caucus and in their own party. Fox NewsNew York Post columnist Karol Markowicz was even more audaciously blunt: Josh Shapiro had too much baggage to be the Dem VP nominee and that baggage was being Jewish. Karol Markowicz (@karol) August 6, 2024 Veteran conservative activist and gabber Erick Erickson took the next logical step into anti-antisemitic fantasyland: No Jews allowed at the top of the Democratic Party. Erick Erickson (@EWErickson) August 6, 2024 To which the Democratic majority leader of the Senate instantly replied: News to me https://t.co/VYCrhpfcdM Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) August 6, 2024 Republicans really should not go there. Of the 36 Jews currently in Congress, 34 are Democrats and just two (both in the House) are Republicans. And you cannot simply attribute that to tradition. As recently as the 1980s, there were five Jewish Republicans serving simultaneously in the U.S. Senate. Now there are zero. Should that be cited as evidence that Republicans are the actual antisemites? No, that would not be fair. But it would be no less unfair than the claim that not choosing one of the four Jewish Democratic governors (Jewish Republican governors: zero) makes Democrats the party of antisemitism. Of all the dumb comments along these lines, however, one from former White House press secretary Ari Fleischer really takes the cake: The Left did it to Joe Lieberman. Now, they did it to Josh Shapiro. The D party is not home for strong supporters of Israel. Its time for the Jewish community to recognize the power in the D party rests with its anti-Israel progressive base. Ari Fleischer (@AriFleischer) August 6, 2024 Aside from the fact that Joe Lieberman as a Democrat was the first and only Jewish vice-presidential nominee, its absolutely false that Lieberman lost a Democratic primary in 2006 (assuming thats what Fleischer is talking about the Left doing to Lieberman) because he was a strong supporter of Israel. No, he lost because he was a strong supporter of the Iraq War pursued by Fleischers boss, George W. Bush, which pretty much everyone in both parties most definitely including the Republican presidential and vice presidential nominees now considers a boneheaded blunder. If Republicans are going to bash Democrats for choosing Walz, they should stick with their standard smearing of Harris and Walz himself and drop this stupid argument that the party for which Jews regularly and overwhelmingly vote actually hates them. Polar Bear the dog tries to catch water splashes while on a walk with his owner Fernando Avila and fellow dog Panda Bear at Civic Park at Hemisfair on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News The scorching Texas summer heat can be uncomfortable and even dangerous for both people and their household pets. In Texas, the temperature routinely reaches triple digits, but our pets can struggle with the heat long before it hits 100 degrees. Any time the temperature is above 85 degrees, or if the heat index is over 100 degrees, people should use caution when walking their dogs outside, said Alexis Bardzinski, the medical director at Austin animal shelter Austin Pets Alive. A dog named Chief pants in the bright sun at Woodlawn Lake Park on July 4 in San Antonio. Flat-faced or long-haired breeds, such as French bulldogs, German shepherds, Labradoodles, goldendoodles, huskies, pugs, and English bulldogs, can have a harder time cooling themselves down once they become overheated. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Dogs and cats cant sweat like humans, so they rely on evaporative cooling, mostly through panting and licking. This is how they communicate when they are starting to get too hot. Bardzinski mentioned that flat-faced or long-haired breeds, such as French bulldogs, German shepherds, Labradoodles, goldendoodles, huskies, pugs, and English bulldogs, can have an even harder time cooling themselves down once they become overheated. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Why is cooling down hard for dogs? Dogs have a harder time cooling down than humans because they are covered in fur. Dogs only have sweat glands in certain areas of their bodies. According to the American Kennel Club, there are two types of sweat glands in dogs: merocrine glands and apocrine glands. Merocrine glands are found in the dogs paws with little to no fur, and they function similarly to human sweat glands. When these glands activate on a hot day, you may notice damp paw prints on the ground. Apocrine glands are considered sweat glands by veterinarians, but their primary function is to release pheromones, which help dogs identify other dogs by scent. How can we keep pets safe when its hot? Given the inefficient placement of a dogs sweat glands, owners must help their furry friends stay cool. Owners can ensure their dogs stay safe and comfortable by providing shade, offering plenty of water to drink and scheduling walks for the early morning and the late evening. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Pay attention to a dogs body language on a hot day: Red eyes and an extended tongue can indicate that your pet is overheating. Yuri Avila/The Chronicle On a 100-degree day, the pavement can reach temperatures of 148 degrees or above, which can burn your dogs paws, Bardzinski said. One way to know for sure is to check the pavement and place the back of your hands on the ground for five seconds. If it feels too hot for you, its too hot for your pup. However, if its just a quick bathroom break, thats fine, but make sure they walk on grass and dont spend more than a few minutes. Pay attention to their body language: Red eyes and an extended tongue can indicate your pet is overheated. If they are lagging on a walk when they usually keep up, its a sign that they need a break from the heat. Also, never leave your pets inside a car when its warm outside. The National Weather Service warns that temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach dangerous levels of triple-digit heat within minutes. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The chart from the National Weather Service shows the ambient temperature outside and compares it to the temperature inside a car with the windows down and the windows up. National Weather Service Being in a hot environment for too long can lead to elevated body temperatures and cause deadly fevers in dogs that can cause shock to their organs, Bardzinski said. Signs of heat exhaustion in pets Our furry family members cant communicate their needs like humans, so it falls on pet owners to step in and keep their companions safe. Here are a few ways to notice if your dog is suffering from heat exhaustion. Dehydration: Signs of dehydration include a dry nose, gray/bluish gums, excessive panting, sunken eyes, lack of urine and visible tiredness. Signs of dehydration include a dry nose, gray/bluish gums, excessive panting, sunken eyes, lack of urine and visible tiredness. Excessive drooling: Watch to see if they are producing a lot more drool and if its thicker and stickier than usual. Watch to see if they are producing a lot more drool and if its thicker and stickier than usual. Rapid pulse: The easiest way to take your pets pulse is to place your hand on their chest near the front elbow. Note that bigger dogs have a slower pulse, while small dogs and puppies have a faster pulse. The easiest way to take your pets pulse is to place your hand on their chest near the front elbow. Note that bigger dogs have a slower pulse, while small dogs and puppies have a faster pulse. Lethargy, weakness and dizziness: If they seem to have trouble walking in a straight line or bumping into furniture, they may be lightheaded. If they seem to have trouble walking in a straight line or bumping into furniture, they may be lightheaded. Vomiting or diarrhea: If you notice an abnormally soft stool or stool with blood in it, it is a big warning sign for heat exhaustion. Advertisement Article continues below this ad It is important to recognize these signs and to get help, because so far in 2024, at least 50 dogs and other animals have died from heat-related causes and more than 150 have been rescued, according to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. A cooling shower can be an effective way of keeping your dog from overheating in extreme summer temperatures. Richard Vogel/Associated Press How I Sleep A series about how people with highly specific sleeping situations fall asleep and stay asleep and the products they use. Illustration: Arnaud Boutin Rachael and Aaron Meir met as freshmen in college and were married six years later. Several years into the marriage, Rachael wanted to explore her bisexuality, and they decided to open up their relationship. In 2019, the couple met Kasey Kershner through Bumble, and the relationship eventually developed into a committed polyamorous triad. The throuple now lives together in a house in Gulfport, Florida. The No. 1 question we get, Aaron says, is how we sleep. The three share a king-sized bed, and while some elements of their sleeping arrangements were unanimously agreed upon, others required a bit more adjustment and compromise. Its like, Well, we sleep in a bed; theres just more people, Kasey explains. But there are definitely more complications with an additional person. And the dog. Update on August 27, 2024: Updated prices and checked stock for all products. On keeping cool Kasey Kershner: The three of us sleep in a regular king-size bed. We have an eight-pound miniature dachshund as well, and she sleeps with us a lot. So it gets a little crowded, but obviously sleep time is the time to be close and reconnect with your people. We live in Florida, so its hot. We actually have an overhead fan and a floor fan, and both pretty much have to be on high. Rachael Meir: Luckily, we all prefer to be on the colder side while sleeping. So that hasnt been too problematic. KK: Rachael and I go back and forth every night on who sleeps in the middle. Aaron cant sleep in the middle because he gets too hot. RM: If Kasey or I have to get out of the middle, we have to navigate very carefully, crawling out the top and right through the center and trying not to wake anyone else up. We know another triad where they were working on developing a zipper sheet because you get stuck in the middle and you need to be able to get out to breathe or stick a leg out. We dont have it yet, but that would be very helpful in our situation. KK: If we lived somewhere less warm, a cozy, cushy flannel sheet would be my jam. You cant do a flannel sheet in Florida. So now we just have regular cotton. RM: Kasey and I would also both love the really soft jersey sheets. Aaron Meir: I cannot stand jersey sheets. No way. A big static-electricity cloud is what I turn into with the jersey sheets. High-thread-count Costco cotton for the win. RM: Costco is our go-to. They tend to have good, high-quality stuff for cheaper, so we usually check there first for almost anything. On negotiating the mattress KK: We have a memory-foam mattress that somewhat mitigates the movements of a lot of people in the bed. I definitely like a more soft, squishy, pillowy feel. I like to sink into the mattress. We have a spare bed thats more my preferred feel its very cushy and soft but that didnt necessarily work out for everybody else. RM: Due to pain from a car accident, I do better with a hard mattress. AM: Yeah, firmer mattress for me too. RM: We ended on one that was a compromise between hard versus soft. We were trying to find something that was close to the previous mattress Kasey had. There was a bit of an adjustment phase because Aaron and I both would have preferred a harder mattress, and we had to get used to something that was softer than what he and I had had alone, but we were willing to give it a try. KK: Do we have a mattress topper? RM: We put it underneath. KK: Oh right, it used to be on top, but it was too squishy for them. RM: We tried the topper because the mattress was a little harder than what Kasey would have liked, but it ended up being too soft for me. We read somewhere that putting a topper underneath the mattress when you have a bed frame with slats could help absorb the compression and make it a little less squishy, but Im not sure if it actually made a difference. On having seven pillows among them KK: We tried to get a uniform pack of pillows, and that did not work. So I have my specific pillow, Aaron has his specific pillow, and Rachael literally has three or four pillows that she cycles through for her head. And she also has a second pillow that she puts under her arms, like a body pillow. Thats like a whole other person in between three people. RM: Any pillows with a therapeutic benefit are for me. I have neck issues, and Ive gone through a whole range of pillows trying to figure out what would help with neck support. I tend to have one that works well for some amount of time, and then I begin to have more discomfort again, so Ill try something new. Sometimes Ill go back to an old pillow after more time has passed. Ill have one pillow under my head and neck and then Im wrapped around a body pillow too. Aaron is very much all about the down pillow he likes the squishiest ones. Kasey is a more in-the-middle, soft-but-firm person. On their individual bedtime routines RM: All three of us pretty much wear the same pajamas to bed. Aaron is usually in boxers and T-shirt. Kasey and I stole some old boxers of Aarons we call them our sleeping shorts plus a T-shirt as well. AM: You guys used to use the VR goggles for meditation. KK: We did use the Oculus, or the Meta headset, to do meditations. But now, when Rachael and I do audio meditations at night, we share a pair of earphones to do that. RM: We do have a white-noise machine. I got it for my office Im a therapist, so its to block out sound when Im doing sessions with clients. But it has different settings and one of them is for sleep, so well use that, especially if theres a guest in the house or were traveling. AM: We joke about our Chomper Labs night guards that we all use. RM: Aaron was the first. He had jaw pain that led to him to getting a night guard, and he paid a lot through the dentist initially. And then both Kasey and I were suggested to get one for clenching and grinding. He researched and heard about Chomper Labs, which ended up being a super-easy at-home kit for a ridiculously lower cost compared to what he was paying for at the dentist. So we decided to both try it, and they worked out great. KK: Sometimes Ill do your sleep spray, but its pretty infrequent. But if Im wired or I know we have to get up early and I need to get to sleep quick, Ill do melatonin. RM: I work with a nutritional-network marketing company, and they happen to have a melatonin-based sleep spray Ive been using for a long time. I also take edibles because I have a medical marijuana card for pain. Ill go for anything thats close to me or has a deal as long as its indica, which helps with sleep. It tends to be more calming, and it helps with relaxation and sleepiness. On bedtimes KK: We tend to go to bed at 10:30-ish, and we all usually go to bed around the same time. RM: Because Kasey and I rotate every night, we usually just know whos in what position, so if someone comes to bed later, their spot will be open. Usually going to bed is a joint experience. But it can be challenging if someone wants to go to bed earlier or someone is up longer. For cuddling, its whoevers feeling whatever theyre feeling. Theres no rules or switching back and forth. Sometimes if Aaron falls asleep right away it might be Kasey and I. Sometimes shes snuggling him and Ill snuggle her. If the dog comes in the bed, then she might separate us. KM: At night, Rachael likes to watch shows on her phone because shes not tired and she doesnt want to go to sleep. So Aaron and I are turned away, trying to hide from the light. RM: I didnt know that. KK: Sometimes. But we also all mess around on our phones for a while. RM: We have a headboard with a ledge on top of it and long-enough cords that drape over it for the middle person to plug their phone in. KK: Typically Aaron will put his phone down first, then Ill put my phone down, while Rachaels still RM: I have the worst sleep hygiene habits. On waking up KK: Im not a morning person. I would rather sleep in; they would rather get up and go to the gym. But ultimately, when you have two people getting up out of bed, youre most likely going to wake up anyway, so I cant really stay asleep past when theyre leaving. RM: Sometimes its three separate alarms. We just use the ones on our phones. Well all get up at whatever time we need to, whether its exercise or a work meeting or something. But usually whoevers alarm goes off first is going to be waking up the others. get the strategist newsletter Actually good deals, smart shopping advice, and exclusive discounts. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. The Strategist is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about here. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change. 4 items in this article 4 items on sale! Photo-Illustration: The Strategist; Photo: Retailer Mephisto, the French orthopedic footwear brand, has in recent years become something of a favorite in the artistic set, with Chase Hall, Steven Spielberg, and Grear Patterson among its fans. Right now, Mephisto is running an end-of-season sale with discounts up to 50 percent off. If youre over the ubiquity of a certain other European shoe brand, consider these leather slides with an oversized buckle and a split design that I think leans more designer than orthopedic. They have a leather footbed that contours to your feet, giving you the support you need to walk everywhere in them. Theyre on sale for 35 percent off, bringing the price down from $189 to $123, and are also available in ochre and camel, though there are limited sizes in the latter. See below for more Mephistos I like, all on sale including a version of the Match style Hall has multiples of. More Mephistos on Sale I like get the strategist newsletter Actually good deals, smart shopping advice, and exclusive discounts. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. The Strategist is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about here. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change. Last week, Venezuelas sitting President Nicolas Maduro was declared the winner of the countrys presidential vote, plunging the country into widespread protests amid glaring election irregularities. The 61-year-old Maduro beat the elderly opposition candidate, 74-year-old Mr Gonzalez Urrutia, despite exit polls showing the latter garnering 65% of the vote. The relatively unknown Gonzalez was selected as a last-minute stand-in for opposition powerhouse Maria Corina Machado, who was blocked by the Maduro-controlled Supreme Tribunal of Justice from running for any office for 15 years. The charismatic 56-year-old former lawmaker swept the oppositions October primary with more than 90% of the Unitary Platform, a coalition of Venezuelas main opposition parties. Machado initially picked a college professor as her substitute on the ballot, but her choice was rejected after the ruling party-loyal National Electoral Council also barred her from registering. Not surprisingly, the opposition has claimed fraud, with the U.S. and EU foreign policy chiefs and various regional neighbors expressing disapproval. As you might expect, Mr Maduros authoritarian allies in Russia, China, Iran, and Cuba have wasted no time congratulating him. That said, Maduros latest power grab is unlikely to affect global Oil & Gas markets in any material way. Last month, The United States Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) eased some sanctions on Venezuela but retained sanctions on Venezuelas state-owned oil company, PDVSA. OFAC issued a new license allowing certain transactions related to the export or re-export of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to Venezuela until July 8, 2025. However, transactions with Petroleos de Venezuela, S.A., the Venezuelan state-owned oil and natural gas company in which PdVSA has a 50 percent or greater interest, remain prohibited under the sanctions imposed by various executive orders. The previous general license permitted transactions related to oil or gas sector operations in Venezuela but expired on April 18. The United States holds that Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro and his representatives have failed to fully meet the obligations outlined in the electoral roadmap signed with the opposition in Barbados in October 2023. The United States is now considering fresh sanctions on Venezuela following Sunday's disputed presidential election. However, U.S. officials are not currently considering any changes to Chevron Corp.s (NYSE:CVX) license or to other individual authorizations. Chevron's license has become a flagship mechanism to recover debt by exporting Venezuelan crude, a model that is copied by other companies with operations in the country. Chevron has ramped up deliveries of Venezuelan crude to the United States since early 2023; however, its ~200,000 bpd of heavy crude arriving into the U.S. represents less than 1% of the more than 20 million barrels of crude processed by U.S. refineries every day. According to Reuters, widespread post-election protests have so far not affected Venezuelas oil flows. Previously, PdVSA instructed joint ventures and its own operational areas to work with reduced staff and an increased level of security due to the electoral process, which typically requires the mobilization of the military. However, the company has relaxed the order in recent days, with most PdVSA executives and staff working normal shifts. According to Reuters, Venezuelas crude production averaged 922,000 barrels per day in June. Venezuela's crude oil production averaged 884,000 barrels per day (bpd) in the current year, good for a 15%Y/Y increase above the same period of 2023. However, current production remains well below the 3.2 million bpd peak in 1997 before late President Hugo Chavez took office. Venezuela has lost about two-thirds of its crude production capacity over the past decade thanks to a lack of investment, exodus of skilled workers, mismanagement and corruption at PdVSA. The same problems have plagued the country's gas industry, which remains severely underdeveloped. After peaking at 1.12 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) in 2001, Venezuela's natural gas production halved to 563 billion cubic feet (Bcf). The country's gas output - which is now half of what it was in 2016 - is not enough to meet domestic demand despite Venezuela having the largest reserves in Latin America. Venezuelas gas producers have now restored to flaring, or burning off, a large portion of production. Venezuela has 196 trillion cubic feet in proved reserves compared to 432 trillion cubic feet by the United States, despite the Latin American country having less than a tenth of the population of its much larger counterpart. The National News Its hard to see a meaningful revival of Venezuelas energy industry under another Maduro government. Falling oil production has had a severely adverse effect on the economy with GDP currently a third of what it was a decade ago. As Robin M Mills, chief executive of Qamar Energy, and author of The Myth of the Oil Crisis, has observed, we are more likely to see the combination of repression, continuing backing from the military and remaining loyal Chavistas, some Russian assistance, a tepid response from leftist Latin American democracies, and distribution of dwindling petrodollars, keeps Mr Maduro in power. Blaming sanctions and Washingtons meddling provides easy excuses for the countrys dysfunction. By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Saudi Aramco pledged to pay a record $124 billion in dividends this year despite a drop in net profits. Hedge funds have turned bearish on commodities for the first time since 2016, citing concerns about an economic slowdown. Oil prices have been tumbling in recent weeks, but there are signs that they may have hit their bottom, with glints of bullish sentiment and Goldman Sachs saying it doesn't expect Brent to fall below $75. Beaten But Not Broken, Commodities Need to Regain Trust of Investors - Hedge funds and other money managers turned bearish on commodity futures for the first time since 2016 as fears of economic slowdown dent investors trust that there is a bright future for raw materials over the next months. - After eight years of consecutive bullishness, the net short held by money managers across a basket of 20 raw materials amounted to 58,600 contracts in the week ended July 30. - Confirming that weakening Chinese demand plays an important role in the overall market pessimism, hedge funds positioning in NY heating oil futures has been bearish for the past 9 weeks and the ICE gasoil futures are on the brink of breaking into bearish territory. - Market positioning reflects generally lower commodity prices as the Bloomberg Commodity Index, tracking selected energy, crop, and metals futures, is down 4% so far this year, having already dropped 13% in 2023. Market Movers - The worlds largest oil producer Saudi Aramco (TADAWUL:2222) pledged to pay out a record $124 billion in dividends this year, despite a 3.4% year-over-year drop in net profits to $29 billion. - California-based solar developer SunPower has filed for bankruptcy, creating a huge headache for French oil major TotalEnergies (NYSE:TTE) which owned some 65% of SunPower. - Canadas pipeline major TC Energy (NYSE:TRP) sold a minority stake in its Canadian natural gas pipelines NGTL and Foothills to Indigenous communities for $725 million as part of its divestment program. Tuesday, August 06, 2024 So far, every single day in August has seen a day-over-day decrease in oil prices, with Mondays stock selloff seeing ICE Brent drop to an 8-month low of $76.30 per barrel. Yet beyond the panic and confusion, some semblance of recovery might be on the horizon for crude, with Libyan production disruptions and Middle Eastern tensions potentially adding some bullish momentum. Aramco Turbocharges H2 Demand Expectations. Amin Nasser, the chief executive of Saudi national oil firm Saudi Aramco, said this week he expected oil demand of 1.6-2 million b/d in the second half of this year, saying that fundamentals dont support the current weakness in prices. Libyas Production Threatened by Protests Again. Libyas largest producing asset, the 300,000 b/d capacity Sharara field, has been almost completely shut down over the weekend amidst public protests that are believed to be linked to the Eastern governments Libyan National Army. Texas Gas Market Continues to Weigh on Chevron. Chevron reported that the average price for its US gas production in Q2 stood at $0.76 per mmBtu, the lowest since 2020 and half of what it used to be a year ago, as negative Waha prices (averaging -$0.58 per mmBtu) hamper profitability in the Permian. Japan Signs Up for More LNG From the Emirates. Japans leading gas company Osaka Gas (TYO:9532) signed a Heads of Agreement with the UAE state oil firm ADNOC for the delivery of up to 0.8mtpa of LNG starting from the late 2020s, to be sourced from the new Ruwais LNG project. Citgo Auction Sees Icahn vs Koch. The auction of US oil refiner Citgo Petroleum seems to have two front-runners as a consortium led by Koch Industries offered $9 billion in combined cash and claims against Venezuela, pitting it against Carl Icahn-controlled CVR Energy that offered an all-cash bid of $8 billion. Indonesia Sets Ambitious Upstream Goals. Indonesias government seeks to boost natural declines from legacy oil and gas fields by at least 100,000 b/d by 2028 through enhanced oil recovery, reactivating old wells as well as new developments, seeing output slump to 580,000 b/d lately. French Major Gets Rid of Pakistani Exposure. French energy giant TotalEnergies (NYSE:TTE) has agreed to sell its 50% stake in Pakistans oil marketing company PARCO to global commodities trader Gunvor, allowing the latter to tap into PARCOs more than 800 service stations and logistical chains. US Government to Invest $2.2 Billion in Power Grids. The Biden administration vowed to invest $2.2 billion to revamp the US power grid and to protect it against the growing disruptions caused by extreme weather events, providing funding for 8 pilot projects across 18 states. P66 Goes to Court in Trade Secret Case. The case of California retailer Proper fuels demanding $1 billion in damages from US refiner Phillips 66 for alleged trade secret theft is going for jury trial in August, alleging that the refiner used information gained in a pre-acquisition due diligence process for its renewables business. Brazilian Giant Finds Gas in Colombia. Brazils state-owned oil firm Petrobras (NYSE:PBR) confirmed its Uchuva-2 exploration well in Colombias deepwater offshore zone found natural gas, extending the range of hydrocarbon-rich deposits it found with the Uchuva-1 well drilled two years ago. Chinese Tech Giant Stockpile Chips. According to Reuters, Chinese tech majors Huawei and Baidu have been stockpiling high bandwidth memory (HBM) semiconductors from Samsung Electronics, accounting for a third of the Korean firms demand in 2024, in anticipation of potential US curbs on exports to China. Glencore Faces Another Bribery Case Penalty. Mining giant Glencore (LON:GLEN) has been fined $152 million by the Swiss attorney generals office for not taking sufficient measures to prevent bribery of Congolese officials, taking the bribery-related payouts of the firm to a whopping $1.7 billion. Gold Hits Record High Before Selloff Slump. The price of gold surpassed $2,500 per ounce for the first time in history last Friday following the publishing of the US nonfarm payroll data, hitting $2,522/oz in early trading hours, and then collapsing to $2,390/oz during Monday's market panic. Tom Kool Editor, Oilprice.com P.S. Whether you are new to the oil and gas industry or an energy market veteran, you will regret not signing up for Global Energy Alert. Oilprice.com's premium newsletter provides everything from geopolitical analysis to trading analysis, and all for less than a cup of coffee per week. Saudi Aramco reported a net income of $29 billion for the second quarter of the year, down from $30 billion a year earlier. Half-year profits this year were also slightly lower than the 2023 result. Free cash flow also shrank, from $23.1 billion in the second quarter of 2023 to $18.96 billion in the second quarter of this year. Dividends paid, however, were ramped up from $19.5 billion last year, to $31 billion this year. We have delivered market-leading performance once again, with strong earnings and cash flows in the first half of the year. Leveraging these strong earnings, we continued to deliver a base dividend that is sustainable and progressive, and a performance-linked dividend that shares the upside with our shareholders, chief executive Amin Nasser said. The companys release also noted its natural gas pivot, seeing to boost gas production and sales by 60% by 2030 from 2021 levels. The biggest shareholder of the company is, of course, the Saudi state, which has a stake of over 81% and could definitely use the bumper dividends as it struggles to stay on course with a massively ambitious economic diversification program that will cost hundreds of billions. In addition to its direct stake, the Saudi government also holds 16% in Aramco via its sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund. To help fund that program, Aramco placed a secondary share offering earlier this year, raising over $12 billion from the sale as it priced the issue at the lower end of the original range. Half of the stock purchases came from abroad. The Saudi state energy major also placed a bond offering this year, for the first time since 2021. The size of the offering was $6 billion but Aramco secured orders worth $31 billion for the debt issue. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com SunPower, the California-based solar developer and operator, has filed for bankruptcy protection after slashing jobs and saying it would restate its financial results for the last two years on cost misclassification. The company also said it had entered into a stalking horse deal with Complete Solaria, which would buy some of SunPowers business for $45 million in cash. Solaria would buy the Blue Raven Solar project and SunPowers New Homes business. Per Reuters, when SunPower acquired Blue Raven Solar, it paid $165 million in 2021. The bankruptcy filing estimated the companys assets and liabilities to be between $1 billion and $10 billion, Reuters reported. Earlier this year, SunPower, which saw its stock shed as much as 60% over the 12 months to April, said that it would cut 1,000 jobs and revise financial reports. According to Bloomberg, the revision would reduce the companys profits by between $25 million and $25 million. In July, media reported that SunPower would suspend new solar installations and halt shipments, causing its stock to plunge by nearly 40% in afternoon trading on July 18. The solar company informed dealers that starting September 17, it will not support new leases, power purchase agreements (PPA) sales, or new project installations. This decision, outlined in a letter included in a research note from Roth MKM, became the latest signal of severe operational problems for the solar developer. French energy giant TotalEnergies SE, which owns about 65% of SunPower, now faces the repercussions of these developments. A weakening of the rooftop solar market in California was one big reason behind SunPowers troubles, as inventories built up amid slackening demand. Regulatory reforms in the state contributed to the weaker demand as they removed a large part of the incentives that drove people to put solar on their rooftops. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The U.S. Department of Energy is allocating $2.2 billion in grants for upgrades of the grid to make it more resilient to extreme weather events and accommodate more renewable energy. The funding from the DOE will add to private sector financing to support eight grid upgrade projects across 18 states. According to the U.S. Administration, the DOE funding is expected to support the construction of more than 600 miles of new transmission lines and the upgrade of about 400 miles of existing lines so that they can carry more current. The first half of 2024 has already broken records for the hottest days in Earth's history, and as extreme weather continues to hit every part of the country, we must act with urgency to strengthen our aging grid, U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm said in a statement carried by Reuters. As power demand grows, the share of renewables rises, and extreme weather events such as heat waves and winter freezes become more frequent, electric utilities say that the U.S. grid reliability will need significant spending, more than the expenditures in previous decades. U.S. utilities and regulators have raised significantly their forecasts of peak power demand in the coming decade, as both expect exponential growth in electricity demand from data centers and new technologies such as generative AI. Investments that have been pushed back in recent years have now become urgently needed to address grid reliability issues and expand the transmission infrastructure to meet growing demand and accommodate more solar and wind power in the system. The problem that we have right now comes from decades of lack of investment, Pedro Azagra, chief executive at Avangrid, which operates utilities in New England and New York, told The Wall Street Journal last month. You cannot catch up in one minute, added the executive, who said that Avangrid has hiked expenditures to address challenges in grid reliability. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com At least five U.S. military personnel were wounded in a rocket attack on an airbase in western Iraq on Monday, anonymous U.S. officials told Reuters, as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate and the region is braced for a possible Iranian retaliation for Israel killing a Hamas leader on Iranian soil last week. Two Katyusha rockets targeted Al Asad airbase in western Iraq, and one of them fell inside the base, an Iraqi security source told Reuters. One of the wounded U.S. personnel is in serious condition, the U.S. officials told the news agency. We can confirm that there was a suspected rocket attack today against US and Coalition forces at Al-Asad Airbase, Iraq, a U.S. defense official told CNN on Tuesday. Initial indications are that several US personnel were injured. Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment, the official added. Late on Monday, the U.S. Department of Defense issued a statement saying that Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant to reiterate unwavering U.S. commitment to Israel's security in the face of threats from Iran, Lebanese Hizballah, and other Iran-aligned militia groups. The U.S. blamed Iran-aligned militia in Iraq for the rocket attack on the airbase. Secretary Austin and Minister Gallant agreed that today's Iran-aligned militia attack on U.S. forces stationed at Al-Asad Airbase in western Iraq marked a dangerous escalation and demonstrated Iran's destabilizing role in the region, the Department of Defense said. The escalation of tensions in the Middle East sparked concerns of a direct Israel-Iran conflict and boosted oil prices early last week, before a weak U.S. jobs report shifted the market focus onto a possible recession. Iran has vowed to retaliate for the suspected Israeli assassination of the Hamas political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, and fears of an imminent Iranian attack on Israel are growing. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com While Tim Walz established himself as a national political figure in Minnesota, the Democratic vice presidential candidates life story is deeply rooted in Nebraska. The 60-year-old Walz was born in West Point and spent his life through adulthood in Nebraska. He graduated from tiny Butte High School. He served in the Nebraska Army National Guard for more than a decade. He earned a degree from Chadron State College. He and his wife also taught school in Alliance before they moved to her native state of Minnesota in 1996. We got a great base for future success, Walz once said of his days at Chadron State. I believe the record shows that we have been able to go on and compete very well. Now after Tuesdays announcement that Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris picked him as her running mate, Walz will compete this fall for a chance to join her in the White House. Walz, a former U.S. House member and now Minnesotas governor, touted his small-town roots and values when he made his first appearance as Harris running mate in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening. He mentioned working on his familys farm and called Butte a small town of 400 where community was a way of life. He also earlier spoke of his Nebraska upbringing during an introductory video released by the newly minted Harris-Walz ticket. I learned to be generous toward my neighbors, compromise without compromising my values, and to work for the common good, he said. And I tried to teach my students what small-town Nebraska taught me: respect, compromise and service to country. Nebraskans who knew Walz were abuzz with Harris pick after the news broke Tuesday morning. Aubrianna Faustman of Lincoln said she could not be more excited to learn that her high school geography teacher with whom she twice traveled to China on school trips was joining the Democratic presidential ticket. Hes just a down-to-earth, good guy, she said. He was a great teacher who knows how to make learning exciting. I feel like he is really someone who can bring people together. Allen Shepherd, a longtime Chadron State professor who taught Walz history at the college, remembered Walz as a talented and curious student with a lot of interests beyond the classroom. I suppose if I could use four adjectives to describe him, it would be honest, fair, talented and moderate in politics, he said. Con Marshall, the longtime spokesman for Chadron State, recalled that Walz was personable and engaging when he spoke at the schools commencement a decade ago. He didnt use a single note and walked around the stage talking with a microphone on, he said. He is very fluent and very sharp. Born in 1964 in West Point, Nebraska Walz has actually spent more of his 60 years in Nebraska than he has in Minnesota. Walz was born on April 6, 1964, in West Point, the son of Jim and Darlene Walz. His late father was a school superintendent. Tim Walz spent most of his childhood in Valentine before his family moved to Butte for his sophomore year of high school. He graduated from Butte High School in 1982. He likes to say there were 24 people in his class, and he was related to half of them. Walzs mother still lives in Butte, a village near the South Dakota border in northeast Nebraska, and he has a sister living in Alliance. His mother could not be reached Tuesday. His sister, Sandy Dietrich, declined to comment when reached by The World-Herald on Tuesday morning, saying she had learned of Harris choice only five minutes earlier. Walzs brother, Jeff, lives in Florida. Even before completing high school, just two days after turning 17, Tim Walz got his familys permission to enlist in the Nebraska Army National Guard. He has said he was encouraged to serve by his father, a Korean War-era Army veteran. Walz once recalled to Minnesota Public Radio that he and a military recruiter drove 30 miles to a field where a farmer was out tilling. The farmer, a lieutenant in the guard, hopped down from a tractor. And we did the oath of enlistment right there on the edge of a field with the recruiter, and that led me on a 24-year journey, Walz recounted. He said he relished being a citizen soldier, doing it and being part of the people that you defend. He completed his basic training at Georgias Fort Benning in the summer before his senior year at Butte. Guard records show he served in the infantry and was promoted to sergeant in 1987. In 1989, he was honored as the Nebraska Guards Citizen-Soldier of the Year, according to a Stars and Stripes report, citing a Walz gubernatorial biography. After high school, Walz enrolled at Chadron State and used the GI Bill to complete his degree in 1989. For a time in 1985, he also took classes in East Asia Studies at the University of Houston. After graduating from Chadron, he briefly served full time in the guard at the armory in Alliance. Shepherd, the Chadron State professor, recalled a conversation around the time Walz graduated when the young man was pondering what to do with his life. Shepherd said he suggested he do something that will really shape your life. In 1990, Walz flew off to China to spend a year teaching as part of Harvard Universitys WorldTeach program. He taught American history, culture and English to Chinese high school students. Walz called it a once-in-a-lifetime experience, finding the people in the Communist country kind and generous. Though his students did not celebrate Christmas, they cut down a pine tree, decorated it and brought it to his room on Christmas Eve. Going there was one of the best things Ive ever done, he later told the Nebraska guards newspaper after he returned to his home state and resumed guard service. A teacher and coach Following the year teaching in China, Walz became a teacher in Alliance, teaching history, social studies and geography to middle school and high school students. He also coached football, basketball and track at the middle school and continued to serve in the guard, one student remembering him mowing his grass while wearing his fatigues. Roxie Smith, a 32-year veteran teacher in Alliance, recalled that Walz had a passion for teaching and connected with his pupils. Tim was just engaging for the students, and I think it was that trip to China, Smith said. He was always very kind, especially to the students. You could just tell he loved teaching. Anne Albracht, a former Walz student who has gone on to teach in the Papillion La Vista Community Schools, said Walz had a folksy, playful and engaging way of teaching. She recalled a history lesson that still sticks with her today. Walz had students take up both sides and re-litigate the U.S. Supreme Courts Dred Scott decision. It was the most electrifying history lesson I ever had hes that kind of teacher, she said. He engaged you in conversations, he challenged your thinking, and would hold back what he knew to let you work through what you think. Man, is that a valuable thing in any kind of political discourse. Walz became known for leading groups of students on summer trips abroad to China. One year, he took youth basketball and dance teams over with him. His office walls were covered with news clippings from the trips and a Chinese banner. During his years in Alliance, he also met his wife, Gwen Whipple, a native of Minnesota who taught English and served as sponsor for the debate team and cheerleader squad. Gwen once recalled the pair taught in adjoining portable classrooms, and she became irked by how his loud voice disrupted her classes. Oh, the kids, they couldnt believe the two of them were dating, Smith recalled. Miss Whipple and Mr. Walz, that was a big deal. ... The typical high school drama of a small town. The two married in 1994 and spent their honeymoon leading two high school tour groups to China. Then in 1996, the couple moved to Mankato, Minnesota, Gwens hometown. There, Walz continued to teach, coach and serve in the guard, ultimately retiring after 24 years of total guard service. Minnesota was also where Walz launched his political career. In 2006, the Democrat ran for and won a seat in Congress, upsetting a six-term incumbent Republican. After six terms in Washington, he was elected Minnesota governor in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. Ann Ashford, the wife of former Nebraska Rep. Brad Ashford, said Walz and her late husband became good friends during Ashfords lone term in the House from 2015 to 2017, bonding over their shared Nebraska roots. With Walzs military background and connections, he also helped Ashford guide to passage the bill that authorized a new VA medical facility in Omaha. Jeremy Nordquist, who served as Ashfords chief of staff, said it would not have happened without Walzs leadership on the House Veterans Affairs Committee. (Brad) would be over the moon right now, Ann Ashford said of Harris choice. With Walzs background as a teacher, coach, guardsman, congressman and governor, she called Walz an outstanding choice for Harris. I dont know how you come up with someone more qualified, she said. He understands how to work with labor and everyone from conservative Republicans to the most liberal of Democrats. Walz has come to Nebraska at least three times to speak at Democratic Party dinners, twice as a congressman and last year as Minnesotas governor. In 2014, the then-congressman returned to Chadron State to give the commencement address and to receive a distinguished alumni award. Walz said he appreciated that his alma mater provided middle-class families like his the opportunity to earn a college education. The professors at this college wanted us to succeed, Walz said during his visit. The door was always open for us to learn and to grow. Walzs former Alliance students were sharing posts on Facebook Tuesday about the big news. All partisanship aside, some said, it was a neat thing. At least one posted a picture of Walz from one of the school trips to China. Its really neat, said Smith, the former Alliance teacher. Usually in (elected) office like that, you have no clue where they came from. But its just cool to know they were good to kids and they were in the trenches doing the work of an everyday-type citizen. That just kind of kicks all politics aside a little bit. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of August 2024 Authorities say a gunman entered a Kansas City bar, in the United States state of Kansas, and shot nine people, fatally wounding four. KSHB-TV reports that officers were called Sunday at 1.30am (local time) to the Tequila KC Bar for a shooting. Police said someone entered the bar and opened fire. Four people were shot dead inside the bar. Five others were taken to a hospital in stable condition for treatment. No-one has been arrested in the shooting. Authorities do not know if there is more than one shooter. The motive for the shooting is also unknown. Kansas City, Kansas, police are investigating the shooting and gave brief details on their Twitter account. Two enterprising California residents allegedly turned a hangar at an abandoned military air base into a secret hideout for stashing stolen goods and making music. The Irvine Police Department said officers discovered the remarkable setup on the grounds of the former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro while investigating "trespassing activity" there. Joshua Micheal Rosario, 29, and Patricia Lynn Ratliff, 53, both of Anaheim, were allegedly found inside the makeshift living space, which was furnished with a couch, a TV and "what appeared to be a recording studio, complete with disco lights and a fog machine," police said on social media Sunday. Rosaro and Ratliff allegedly used car batteries to power the electrical equipment. The Friday search also turned up unspecified "personal property from Irvine residents," as well as 11 bicycles, numerous spools of copper wire, two airsoft rifles, an illegal M-800 firework and drug paraphernalia, police said. Rosario and Ratliff have been repeatedly cited or arrested for trespassing in the building on the grounds of El Toro, which was closed in July 1999 after figuring in the plot of the hit 1996 sci-fi movie "Independence Day," in which it was destroyed by aliens. Rosario was arrested on open warrants and new charges that include burglary and drug possession, and Ratliff was arrested on warrants and also charged with trespassing, police said. The Socio-Economic Rights Agenda, SERAP has released the list of Nigerias ex-governors who have collected double pay in the past or who are doing so now. The list was sequel to a challenge thrown at it by Justice Minister and attorney-general of the Federation, Abubakar Malami last month. In its response to Malamis 24 February letter, SERAP said the following are reportedly collecting and/or have collected double emoluments and large severance benefits from their states: Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (Kano); Kabiru Gaya (Kano); Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom); Theodore Orji (Abia); Abdullahi Adamu (Nasarawa); Sam Egwu (Ebonyi); Shaaba Lafiagi (Kwara); Joshua Dariye (Plateau), and Jonah Jang (Plateau). Others include: Ahmed Sani Yarima (Zamfara); Danjuma Goje (Gombe); Bukar Abba Ibrahim (Yobe); Adamu Aliero (Kebbi); and George Akume (Benue). So far, Senator Chris Ngige, Minister of Labour and Employment, Babatunde Fashola, Minister of Works and Housing, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, former Minister of Mines and Steel Development, and Rotimi Amaechi, Minister of Transportation have denied ever receiving double payments and retirement benefits as former governors. Malami had asked SERAP to send the full list of former governors and ministers that have received or are receiving double pay and life pensions. Malamis letter followed SERAPs request that he should implement last years judgment by Justice Oluremi Oguntoyinbo ordering the government to challenge the legality of states pension laws and recover public funds collected by former governors and ministers. SERAP asked Malami to advise and persuade President Muhammadu Buhari fully enforce the judgment. In his reply dated 24 February, Malami requested for a list of the former governors and ministers which are affected by the judgment, in order to enhance and ensure compliance with the ruling. But it appears Malami did not fully address SERAPs concern. SERAP, in the spirit of the judgment, wants Malami to challenge the various pension laws governors recommended for themselves in their states. Responding, SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare said: We welcome your request for the full list of former governors and ministers. Any further delay in the enforcement of the judgment will continue to undermine the authority and integrity of the Nigerian judiciary. Nigerians cannot wait for you to take legal action to scrap states pension laws and fully recover the public funds collected. Similarly, public records also show that at least 22 states have passed life pensions laws allowing payment of life pensions to former governors and other ex-public officials. These states include: Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Edo, Delta, Kano, Gombe, Yobe, Borno, Bauchi, Abia, Imo, Bayelsa, Oyo, Osun, Kwara, Ondo, Ebonyi, Rivers, Niger, Kogi and Katsina. In your legal action, we urge you to focus on challenging the pension laws in these states while taking steps to verify the number of former governors and ministers that have collected and/or still collecting double payments and retirement benefits, the amount collected with a view to ensuring the full recovery of the public funds collected. PV: 0 Hosting some senior citizens to mark the 2024 Founders Day on Monday in Accra, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo told them it has been the greatest honour of his life to have served as president not once, but twice and that I will willingly step down as president on 7th January [2025]. I do so because I will be in good company, that of Jerry John Rawlings and John Agyekum Kufuor, who in the fourth republic have been privileged by the people of Ghana to serve two terms as president of the republic. Amidst food and beautiful tunes of Ghanaian music, President Akufo-Addo and other government officials as well as senior citizens took to the floor to dance. He commended Ghanaians for their work for the country and their support for him as president and expressed the hope that the same support would be provided to my successor, noting that It is no secret, who I hope that will be. And I hope the people of Ghana will agree with me. President Akufo-Addo indicated that in the last seven years as President steered the ship of the state through the deeply troubled times of the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. It's been a very difficult time, but I believe most of us can see that we are now turning the corner and returning our economy back to normalcy and reviving growth, the growth that made our economy one of the fastest-growing economies in the world in the years prior to the outbreak of the COVID pandemic he added. He assured that just as the country did it in the past, it would do it again. Last Challenge President Akufo-Addo said his last major challenge was to preside over peaceful and fair elections in December 2024. He explained that this was a commitment that with the help of all Ghanaians he intended to realise because the people of Ghana deserve no less than to be given the best atmosphere in which to choose freely their next president and parliament. I intend to ensure that our reputation as the beacon of democracy and stability in Africa and the world is maintained, he assured. He said he was aware that there were some Ghanaians who questioned his commitment to this ceremony, that is 4th August as Founders Day, because they believe that we were all asleep in Ghana until the arrival of Kwame Nkrumah and the CPP. He noted that he had already stated his views on that several times, including in his speech last Saturday evening and did not intend to go over that matter again. Suffice it to say that I believe that the consensus that parliament arrived at in 2019, honouring Kwame Nkrumah with a memorial day and preserving the historical importance and significance of August 4th in our history is a good consensus, and it deserves to last, President Akufo-Addo explained. Source: graphic.com.gh Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Centre for Public Opinion and Awareness (CenPOA) has opined that August 4, which was introduced as Founders Day by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has ended up creating confusion and division and must be scrapped. Executive Director of CenPOA, Michael Donyina Mensah, says the holiday intended to unite the country, but it has rather created division and distorted our history. He asserted that Ghanaians have not really had problems with the introduction of August 4 as Founders Day because, as a people, we are still developing and uniting ourselves towards national development, so recognising our founders is not a problem. However, if you want to use the Founders Day celebration as a means to discredit Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and state categorically that he was not the founder of Ghana, then this is dishonesty, disingenuous, and a distortion of our history. I will disagree with you on that, he said. His comments were in reaction to President Akufo-Addos comments that he rejects completely the ceremonies of Kwame Nkrumah as the founder of Ghana. Donyinah said nobody is disputing suggestions that other people contributed to the independence struggle and freedom fight. However, how the President made his remarks was unfortunate and did not represent the facts leading to our independence. The idea behind the introduction of August 4 was good, but in recent times, it seems the holiday has lost its focus and is no longer serving its purpose. So as an organisation, we are proposing for it to be scrapped. In the future, when a new administration takes over, we want the holiday to be scrapped. This is because it doesnt represent any unity; rather, it is bringing division and disagreements among Ghanaians. The holiday also represents the disagreements and confusion that came up in the past during the independence struggle. "The agenda should be about unity. But the way President Akufo-Addo is misrepresenting the facts and history is troubling. So August 4 can no longer represent its purpose of uniting the country. The founders are supposed to come together in unity to build the country, but if this holiday is beginning to represent division and confusion, then it is something we have to do away with. We are proposing that when a new administration takes over, they should probably find a better alternative to replace this holiday because, as it stands now, this holiday cannot serve any useful purpose. He told host Kwabena Agyapong on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM that we should also take a look at the holidays we have in Ghana and review them so we could have holidays that will define us as a people. Several of the holidays are linked to our colonial past. We are moving forward, and so we should have holidays that define us as a people. I strongly opined that our Independence Day celebration should define our struggle for independence and Founders Day. But to create multiple holidays for various activities leading to our independence is needless and a waste. The holidays should be nationalistic, celebrate certain important milestones, and also last forever. "I want to stress that, going into the future, the August 4 holiday will not serve any useful purpose in Ghana because President Akufo-Addo has ended up surrounding it with confusion. So we are appealing to the next administration to scrap the holiday when they take over. We will petition a new government to scrap it, he said. Source: rainbow radio Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video As the nationwide protests against hunger and bad governance entered the fifth day yesterday, President Bola Tinubu summoned a National Security Council meeting where issues of security threats to the country were discussed. The security meeting which was held at the Presidents office at the State House Abuja, also looked into the new trend of protesters hoisting the Russian flag in some states in the north. Briefing State House correspondents at the end of the security meeting, the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Musa, described as a treasonable offence the hoisting of Russian flags in the cities of Nigeria. The CDS also ruled out any possible coup to remove the democratically elected government, saying that the military would not allow any such attempt to succeed. Recall that some protesters in Kano, Kaduna, Zamfara and Plateau states have hoisted the Russian flags in the aforementioned states from Saturday last week, but the Chief of Defence Staff said that those behind such a grievous offense would face the wrath of the law. He said: We went to brief Mr President on the situation on the ground and we know that since the riot (protest) started, all the security agencies are together. Initially, when the riot (protest) started they said it was a peaceful riot but we have realized that there are individuals that are willing to take advantage of it to cause mayhem. And we can see clearly what has happened since it has commenced. Criminals have taken over, a lot of looting taking place, stealing and all sorts of things are happening. And besides, all of us have seen it where foreign flags have been flown within the sovereignty of Nigeria, and that is totally unacceptable. We are warning in clear terms and the President has also said we should convey this, that we will not accept anybody, any individual flying any foreign flag in Nigeria. That is a treasonable offense, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So nobody shall allow himself to be used by any individual. Source: vanguardngr Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video South African police discovered 90 Ethiopians packed into locked rooms in inhuman conditions at the weekend, a spokesman said Monday and arrested two suspects on allegations of kidnapping and human trafficking. Police found the Ethiopians in a house in Johannesburg on Saturday as they were searching for a man who had been kidnapped for ransom earlier in the week, a police spokesman told AFP. Officers rescued 90 undocumented Ethiopian nationals who were allegedly being kept against their will and under inhuman conditions, a statement said. They were found locked up, confined and packed into rooms. They were taken to a medical facility. The man who had been kidnapped was among the group. Kidnappers had demanded thousands of rands in ransom for his release. Police arrested two suspects, who were expected to face charges of kidnapping and human trafficking. Despite South Africas lacklustre economic growth, as the continents most industrialized nation it attracts millions of migrants, mainly from other African countries. Many come from Malawi, Lesotho and the Horn of Africa, but most are from Zimbabwe. Last September, around 102 undocumented foreign nationals, most of them Ethiopians and some as young as 10 years old, were found in a house in the east of Johannesburg. According to then home affairs minister, Aaron Motsoaledi, they were brought to South Africa to operate general stores around the country. Source: vanguardngr Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Cecilia Asare Memorial Temple of the Church of Pentecost (COP) in the Kunka district of Obuasi was dedicated to the glory of God on Saturday, August 3rd, 2024. The dedication ceremony was led by Obuasi Area Head, Prophet David Kankam Beditor, and assisted by Pastor Benjamin Sarpong Mensah, the Kunka New Town District pastor. The magnificent GH1,247,230.00 worth building was funded by the Headquarters National grant, area grant, District support, local offerings, and individual donations. The temple was named after the late Deaconess Cecilia Asare, one of the founding members of the local Church who dedicated her life to serving God. The event was attended by Reverend ministers, church elders, traditional leaders, family members of the late Deaconess Cecilia Asare, and other notable guests. In his sermon, Prophet David Kankam Beditor emphasized that the church is God's family, and that God builds the church to train and prepare His children for good works. Prophet Beditor praised the late Deaconess Cecilia Asare for her dedication to God's work and sacrifices to ensure the church's success in its current location. He highlighted instances where she had to sell her belongings to support God's work. He urged Christians to emulate her exemplary life and strive to leave a good name and legacy. He also seized the opportunity to advise Ghanaians to preach peace ahead of the impending elections in December, emphasizing that elections should not be a recipe for chaos and violence. He encouraged Christians to leave a good name and legacy. A son of the late Deaconess Cecilia Asare, Daniel Asare thanked the church for honoring their mother's memory, stating that it is a testament to the church's recognition of good work and sacrifices. He shared that his late mother dedicated most of her life to serving the Lord and was always available to offer her savings to God. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Television actor Akili McDowell, best known for his lead role in the Oprah Winfrey-produced "David Makes Man", was arrested and charged with murder in Harris County and police are remaining tight lipped about a possible motive. McDowell, 21, was booked into Harris County Jail on charges of murder and theft on Aug. 1, according to online jail records. Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said deputies responded to an incident that occurred on July 20 in the parking lot of an apartment complex at 13503 North Thorntree, near Wallisville and Uvalde. Deputies arrived at the scene to find a 20-year-old man with gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead shortly after. McDowell was taken into custody in connection with the shooting death of Cesar Peralta, 20. It remains unclear how McDowell was identified as the suspect and whether or not he knew the victim. The investigation is ongoing. Kenyas Ministry of Health on Saturday said it has ramped up its surveillance measures across the country, after confirming its first mpox case in the country early this week. The Ministry of Health said no new mpox cases have been reported in Kenya, but is closely monitoring the confirmed case, involving a long-distance truck driver, who travelled from Kampala, the Ugandan capital, to the Kenyan coastal city of Mombasa, then to Rwanda through Taita Taveta in southeast Kenya and Tanzania. Mary Muthoni, principal secretary in the Ministry of Health, said in a statement issued in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, that the truck driver has now returned to Kenya, prompting an extensive contact tracing effort. The ministry is tracing all close contacts of the truck driver along his travel itinerary within the country, to identify any possible new cases, and prevent further transmission. Muthoni said the ministry is also monitoring the evolution of outbreaks in neighbouring countries, to assess the risks of regional transmissions, and adjust response measures accordingly. The ministry has also released emergency hotline numbers for the public, to report suspected cases and seek further information on the outbreak. Muthoni said the ministry has deployed a rapid response team, to support affected counties with detailed investigations and necessary interventions. She said public health emergency operation centers have been activated across the country, to manage and coordinate the response to the mpox case. Counties are advised to sensitize the public on the outbreak, necessary preventive measures, and steps to take if they contract the disease. Key preventive measures include frequent hand washing with soap and water or hand sanitiser, seeking early treatment, and avoiding close contact with sick persons, Muthoni said. Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is endemic to forested areas of East, Central, and West Africa, the ministry said, adding that since May 2022, a multi-country outbreak has been ongoing globally, with peak cases in August 2022 and June-November 2023. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The deputy sheriff who fatally shot Sonya Massey in her Illinois home last month said he believed that when the Black woman who called police for help unexpectedly said, I rebuke you in the name of Jesus, that she intended to k!ll him, according to the deputys field report released Monday, August 5. I interpreted this to mean she was going to kill me, Sean Grayson wrote, adding that when he drew his pistol and Massey hid behind a counter that separated them, he moved around the obstacle fearing that she was going to grab a weapon. Sonya Massey was shot and killed by a responding officer after she called 911 because she thought there was an intruder in her home, according to officials. Grayson and a second unidentified deputy answered her call about a suspected prowler just before 1 a.m. Inside her home, Grayson directed that a pan of water be removed from a burner on the stove. Grayson and Massey shared a chuckle as he warily moved away from the hot steaming water. Sonya turned to face me holding the pot. I did not know the type of liquid that was boiling, Grayson wrote in his report three days after the incident. I advised Sonya to put the boiling liquid down. Sonya stated (she) was going to rebuke me in the name of Jesus. She stated this twice. I interpreted this to mean she was going to kill me. Masseys family has said that Sonya Massey struggled with mental health issues. She met the deputies at her front door by repeating, Please God and inside the house, asked Grayson to pass her a Bible. Upon hearing the religious admonition, Grayson then drew his pistol and barked commands to drop the (expletive) pot. Massey ducked behind the counter, rose up and appeared to grab the pan again before diving for cover. Grayson said he stepped toward and around the counter to keep Massey in sight, wary that she might have a hidden weapon. Grayson, a 30-year-old Sangamon County Sheriffs deputy, faces first-degree murder, aggravated battery and official misconduct charges in the death of the 36-year-old woman on July 6 which has drawn nationwide protests over the killing of Black people by police in their homes. Grayson has pleaded not guilty. Masseys family has called for the resignation of Sheriff Jack Campbell who has refused to step down arguing that problems in Graysons past should have precluded a law enforcement assignment. As I approached the cabinet, Sonya stood up from a crouched position, grabbing the pot, raising it above her head and throwing the boiling substance at me, Grayson reported. I was in imminent fear of getting boiling liquid to my face or chest, which would have caused great bodily harm or death. Its unclear from the video whether Massey attempted to toss the pans contents, and she was obscured from view when Grayson fired three 9 mm rounds, one of which struck Massey just below the eye. His report then indicates he looked down to see the liquid had hit my boots and I observed steam coming from the cabinet area. By the time he completed the field report July 9, Grayson had been placed on administrative leave. The document indicates he received department permission to review the body camera video, the bulk of which had been recorded on the other deputys camera. Grayson said he thought his was on when the two first met Massey at the door, but he didnt turn it on until just after the shooting. Notice how Sonya insisted that the sherrif's department stay on the phone while the deputies were there? Also, she asked for her Bible from Sean. She sensed danger, and it's heartbreaking. #SonyaMassey #SeanGrayson pic.twitter.com/0Iv7OCd8eL Merry (@musiclife_80) August 4, 2024 Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Former president and Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his stance of not scrapping the free SHS policy. Speaking at a community engagement in Gbane at the Talensi constituency in the Upper East Region, the Flagbearer told the people that those saying he would cancel free SHS were liars because he will never do that when he comes into office; moreover, it is a constitutional requirement. If anybody tells you JM is coming to cancel free SHS, that person is a big liar. JM is coming to improve the implementation of the free SHS. The free SHS has come to stay but we are coming to make it a quality free SHS, Mahama said. The Flagbearer continued I wish to assure you that, when we come, we are going to invest and finish all the abandoned E-blocks and also going to expand the facilities in all existing schools. We are doing this to stop the double track system as soon as possible because we cannot afford a situation where our children come home and stay home for three to four months and then they go back to school, he added. The Flagbearer of the NDC called on the people to vote massively for him and all his parliamentarians for him to earn a majority in Parliament for the implementation of all the policies for a better Ghana. Source: Salaamat Kuukua Paintsil/Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has stated that his last major task as president will be to ensure that the pending general elections on December 7, 2024, is free, fair, and peaceful. Speaking at an event with senior citizens to mark the 2024 Founders' Day on Monday, August 5, 2024, in Accra, President Akufo-Addo said that like other presidents in Ghana's 4th Republic, he will step down after his second term ends, as required by the 1992 Constitution. "I will willingly step down as president on January 7, 2025," the president is quoted to have said by graphic.com.gh. It continued that, "I intend to ensure that our reputation as the beacon of democracy and stability in Africa and the world is maintained." He added, "I do so because I will be in good company, that of Jerry John Rawlings and John Agyekum Kufuor, who, in the fourth republic, have been privileged by the people of Ghana to serve two terms as President of the Pepublic." President Akufo-Addo also said that despite numerous economic challenges, the country has made progress under his government. He pointed out that in the last seven years as president, he steered the ship of state through the deeply troubled times of the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges it brought. "It's been a very difficult time, but I believe most of us can see that we are now turning the corner and returning our economy to normalcy and reviving growth the growth that made our economy one of the fastest-growing economies in the world in the years prior to the outbreak of the COVID pandemic," he said. Source: ghanaweb.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Former President and Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, says the Bawku conflict halts anytime the NDC takes over the administration of the country. If you look at the history, you will find that anytime NDC is in government, there is peace in Bawku and surrounding areas. As soon as we hand over to our brothers, then, trouble starts, he said. He said, given the nod in the upcoming elections, peace in Bawku would be the number one priority of his government, We are going to work with the Chiefs, the religious leaders and everybody to make sure that we establish sustainable peace in Bawku. The Flagbearer said this when he addressed a durbar of Chiefs and people at the Pusiga Nabas Palace in the Pusiga District of the Upper East Region as part of activities for his four-day campaign tour of the Region. On infrastructural projects, Mr Mahama told the people of Pusiga that the Party was undertaking an inventory of all abandoned government projects across the country and owing to the economic crisis, his government would not start any new project but would focus on abandoned projects. He said there were abandoned classrooms, administration, and hostel blocks in schools, and the same was true with hospital projects across the country. These were built with taxpayers money, and if we do not complete it, then, it means that the money that has been put in there is locked up without giving any service to the people. So, we are going to concentrate and finish all those projects so that we can use them, he said. Even though Mahama said his government would concentrate on abandoned projects, he, however, said some very critical projects would be considered, And one is the road coming to Pusiga. It is very deplorable, and that is a part of the Bawku-Pulmakom road. It is Lot 11 of the Bawku-Pulmakom road. I cut the sod for that road in 2015, and I thought that by the time we come here, the road would have been completed. Unfortunately, when I was coming from Bolga, the contractor had vacated the site completely. It is obvious that God designed that NDC should come back and finish the road that we started, the Former President said. Naba Tambisbaalug Ibrahim Aguri, the Chief of Pusiga, thanked the Former President for some projects the district enjoyed during his tenure as President and mentioned that Pusiga was elevated to District status under Mr Mahamas tenure. He added that the NDC under Mr Mahamas leadership as President, established the Pusiga Community Day Senior High School, started the construction of the Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulmakum road, constructed basic schools, CHPS compounds, rural electrification, and fertilizer subsidy. These initiatives have greatly contributed to the growth and progress of our District, and we remain thankful for your contribution. The chief said and appealed to the Flagbearer to continue the works he started that were not completed if given the nod again. Naba Aguri further appealed for a market centre and a District Police Headquarters to beef up security in the area, especially as the district shared boundaries with Togo and Burkina Faso. The chief said the 2024 election was historic as the two flagbearers from the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) were both from the north and advised them to go about their campaigns peacefully. Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Sekou Nkrumah, son of the former president Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, has called on the president and the government to stop the pettiness about who founded Ghana. According to him, the president is still living in the emotions of the past and is unable to let go of what happened in the past. Speaking in an interview with 3news.com, he said that although others played a critical role in the fight to attain independence, it was Ghanas first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, who led the country to independence. We all agree that Nkrumah led Ghana to independence. People would argue that others struggled with him. But the point is that he captured power. "The president is still living in the emotions of the past and is still unable to let go of what happened in the past. We all agree that Nkrumah led Ghana to independence. People would argue that others struggled with him. But the point is that he captured power. He led us to independence. So, lets not take that away from him. The big six, whose contribution cannot be disputed, were unfortunate. Three of the big six and two actually died under Nkrumah. "We all accept the contribution that the others made. And actually, they even invited him to become the General Secretary of the UGCC. But at the same time, we dont need to be petty. I think we should all rise above that and try to understand our history and history is for all of us as Ghanaians," he explained. On August 3, 2024, Akufo-Addo, during his address to the nation on Founders Day, disputed the fact that it was only Dr. Kwame Nkrumah who led the countrys independence fight. I speak to you this evening, rejecting completely the notion that Ghana was founded by one man. While Kwame Nkrumahs contributions to our independence are undeniable, it is important to acknowledge for ourselves that respect that the struggle for our nations freedom was a collective effort spanning several generations, the president said. His comments continue to spark debate, with many criticizing him for attempting to distort Ghanas history. Source: ghanaweb.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video STC Chief Executive and the Deputy Chairman of Bawumia campaign team, Nana Akomea has thrown his weight behind President Nana Akufo-Addo over his position on who founded Ghana. The President asserts that Dr. Kwame Nkrumah is not the sole founder of Ghana, hence fixing August 4 as statutory holiday to celebrate Ghana's founders. To the President, the struggle for independence was a collective one, hence recognizes the efforts of all those who helped Nkrumah to achieve his aim. I speak to you this evening, rejecting completely, the notion that one man founded Ghana. While Kwame Nkrumahs contributions to our independence are undeniable, it is important to acknowledge for ourselves that respect that the struggle for our nations freedom was a collective effort spanning several generations. The formation of the Aborigines Rights Protection, the British West African Nation Congress, the United Gold Coast Convention, the work of countless unsung heroes, and the tenacious spirit of our people all played vital parts in bringing us to freedom and independence, the President said. He concluded; Kwame Nkrumah with his charismatic visionary leadership was undoubtedly a major actor in the final lap of our journey to independence and that is why despite the several unfortunate things that happened after independence under his watch, Parliament in 2019, decided to memorialise his date of birth as Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day, the only Ghanaian so far to be so honoured in our history. Discussing this matter during Tuesday's edition of "Kokrokoo" show on Peace FM, Nana Akomea lauded the President for choosing August 4 saying "I support the date entirely and I support the prominence given to Nkrumah by having his birthday as a special day to recognize his leadership". He explained why August 4 was fixed, stating the date is significant because it is on this day that "the first political party to fight for independence was formed and that political party brought Kwame Nkrumah". To those who are calling out President Akufo-Addo over his statements on the Founders' Day, Nana Akomea questioned; "What is the problem with August 4 (holiday)?" Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Ministry of National Security has described as unfortunate the Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayarigas position on its budget allocation to address the Bawku conflict. According to the Ministry, the statements made by the MP could reignite tensions, and endanger the lives of the personnel of state security and Intelligence agencies in the area. Mr Mahama had alleged that the National Security Minister, Albert Kan-Dapaah, was given GH6,000,000 monthly by the Finance Ministry to manage the Bawku conflict. Speaking on Woezor TV on Saturday, August 3, he said despite the huge sum of money allocated to the Ministry there was no evidence of work done. Subsequently, he dared Mr Kan-Dapaah to respond to his allegations. The National Security Ministry in a statement released on August 6 noted that it was unfortunate and mistaken for Hon. Ayariga, who, given his position as a Member of Parliament, ought to be better informed about the complexities and necessities of national security operations, to politicise same. Such statements have the potential to disinform and misinform the citizens of Bawku, reignite tensions, and endanger the lives of the personnel of state security and Intelligence agencies involved in the operations, and should, therefore, not be encouraged by well-meaning Ghanaians. The Ministry said it was responsible for designing and coordinating security operations nationwide in collaboration with relevant security and intelligence agencies. In response to the sharp and troubling escalation of the inter-ethnic tensions in Bawku in 2021, which led to the tragic loss of hundreds of innocent lives, including women and children, displacement of people, and disruption of economic activities, the Ministry, as a matter of urgency, established a special operation in February 2023 to maintain peace in Bawku and its environs, as well as other areas in the North East Region affected and impacted by the conflict. A budget allocation of GH6,000,000 per month was made to support these operations, which included a Special Task Force. These funds cover essential operational costs, such as fuel supplies for Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and other operational vehicles; the provision and delivery of food rations for personnel of the Task Force; special intelligence operations, and other civil-military activities aimed at building societal cohesion and stability in Bawku, it further stated. In line with the coordination and operational strategy for the management of the conflict, the Ministry noted that upon receipt of the funds, it distributes same to the participating security and intelligence agencies to support their logistics and personnel involved in the operations, with the core mandate of protecting the lives and livelihoods of all citizens in the area. We must emphasise further that these funds are part of the general operational budget for the Ministry. The Ministry is, however, compelled to allocate these amounts to maintain peace in Bawku, when they could have been invested, instead, in enhancing Ghanas capability to build resilience against the dire security threats such as terrorism and violent extremism spreading across the West African region, it added. Source: citinewsroom.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Aphid-infested long beans. Credit: Lilian Thaoxaochay/UCR Climate resilient, nutritious long beans are unfortunately susceptible to aphids and nematodes. By creating four new pest-resistant varieties of the beans, scientists aim to reduce farmers' reliance on pesticides. These new varieties, and the methods used to develop them, are detailed in a new paper published in the Journal of Plant Registrations. Long beans are popular in Asia, Africa, and with Asian immigrant communities in the U.S. Also called yard-long beans because they can grow to nearly 36 inches in length, these plants can withstand high heat and humidity. What they cannot stand, however, are pests. "All local varieties of long beans, until now, have been susceptible to aphids and root-knot nematodes," said UC Riverside plant geneticist Bao Lam Huynh, first author of the paper. Aphids attack the leaves of the beans and can kill the entire plant or render the beans unmarketable. Worse still, aphids rarely only attack one type of plant. "It's very difficult to control aphids, as they can move from crop to crop on diversified farms," Huynh said. Similarly devastating, root-knot nematodes create abnormal growths called galls on the roots in order to extract nutrients. This reduces the plant's uptake of water as well as nutrients, resulting in fewer beans. These attacks also leave the plants susceptible to rot and other microbial diseases. Nematode-infected long bean roots. Credit: Bao Lam Huynh/UCR To learn about pest management strategies, Huynh and his research team contacted a group of predominantly Hmong long bean growers through the UC Cooperative Extension in Fresno, Calif. The researchers found that long beans required the most pesticide of all their crops. "Local consumers are aware of how much these beans get sprayed, so they're reluctant to buy the beans. Consequently, the farmers are struggling to sell this product," Huynh said. "Our idea was to develop resistant varieties not only to minimize the amount of pesticide but to help bring back the market for long beans. Thankfully, the California Department of Food and Agriculture was supportive of this idea." The CDFA supplied more than $400,000 for the researchers to develop these new varieties over a 32-month period, in collaboration with the University of California's Cooperative Extension and farmers in Fresno. The team crossed local long beans with African cowpeas known for their resistance to these pests. The result is three varieties of long beans that are much more aphid resistant, and one variety that repels root-knot nematodes. "The nematode-resistant variety can be grown in rotations to benefit other crops, as they could help suppress nematode populations in the fields where they are planted," Huynh said. "Without plants like these, farmers would have to use a nematicide to control the worms." One of these newer bean varieties has shorter stems, so it will not require a trellis when it grows. This makes it much more amenable to mechanical harvesting. The beans of conventional varieties have to be picked by hand, one by one, because they require trellises, and this makes it difficult for machines to grasp the pods. Machine harvesting will further reduce the cost of producing the beans. In the future, the team plans to develop varieties that are resistant to both types of pests. Meanwhile, the research team is reaching out to farmers in the Central Valley to introduce them to the new varieties. "We want growers to see all the benefits of these new varieties, such as cleaner air from fewer pesticides, less expensive production, safer food, and hopefully, increased demand," Huynh said. More information: BaoLam Huynh et al, Registration of four pestresistant long bean germplasm lines, Journal of Plant Registrations (2024). DOI: 10.1002/plr2.20361 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: Nicotiana benthamiana plants in a lab at UC Davis. Plants form new branches when a hormone called strigolactone breaks down. UC Davis plant biologists have now defined the enzymes that break down strigolactone, potentially leading to ways to breed plants with more branching and therefore, more fruit. Credit: Sasha Bakhter, UC Davis For many plants, more branches means more fruit. But what causes a plant to grow branches? New research from the University of California, Davis shows how plants break down the hormone strigolactone, which suppresses branching, to become more "bushy." Understanding how strigolactone is regulated could have big implications for many crop plants. The study was published August 1 in Nature Communications. "Being able to manipulate strigolactone could also have implications beyond plant architecture, including on a plant's resilience to drought and pathogens," said senior author Nitzan Shabek, an associate professor in the UC Davis Department of Plant Biology who specializes in biochemistry and structural biology. Strigolactone's hormonal role was discovered only in 2008, and Shabek describes it as "the new kid on the block" for plant hormone research. In addition to regulating branching behavior, strigolactone also promotes beneficial interactions belowground between mycorrhizal fungi and plant roots, and helps plants respond to stresses such as drought and high salinity. Though scientists know a lot about how plants synthesize strigolactones and other hormones, very little is known about how plants break them down. Recent research has suggested that enzymes called carboxylesterases, which exist in all kingdoms of life, including humans, might be involved in degrading strigolactone. Plants produce more than 20 types of carboxylesterases, but only two forms in particular, CXE15 and CX20, have been linked to strigolactone. However, this link was only speculative, and Shabek's team wanted to know more about how this degradation works. "Our lab is interested in mechanisms, meaning we don't want to just know that a car can drive, we want to know how it's driving; what's going on inside the engine," said Shabek. Deciphering an enzyme's engine To investigate whether CXE15 and CX20 really are involved in strigolactone regulation, the researchers began by building 3D models of the enzymes' molecular structure. This work was kickstarted by undergraduate researcher Linyi Yan, who grew and purified the carboxylesterase proteins in the lab. That student-led project very quickly became something bigger, Shabek said. Postdoctoral fellow Malathy Palayam used X-ray crystallography and computer simulations to solve the enzymes' three-dimensional atomic structure, and performed biochemical experiments to compare how the two enzymes might degrade the hormone. These experiments showed that CXE15 was much more efficient at breaking down strigolactone than CXE20, which binds to strigolactone but does not degrade it effectively. Their 3D models revealed something new: that a specific region of CXE15 actually allowed the enzyme to change its shape. "CXE15 is a very effective enzymeit can completely destroy the strigolactone molecule in milliseconds," said Shabek. "When we zoomed in, we realized that there is a dynamic area in the enzyme's structure which is required for it to function in this way." A dynamic enzyme By examining CXE15's structure, Shabek and his collaborators identified specific amino acids that allow the enzyme to dynamically bind to strigolactone. Then, to confirm that these amino acids were indeed responsible for the enzyme's efficiency, they genetically engineered a mutant version of the enzyme with an altered dynamic region. The mutant version showed a reduced capacity to degrade strigolactone both in vitro and when the team tested it in Nicotiana benthamiana plants. Shabek says the next steps will be to investigate how carboxylesterase enzymes are produced in different plant tissues, like roots and stems. "In this study we were really interested in elucidating these enzymes' mechanism and structure, but future studies can begin investigating how they affect plant growth and development," Shabek said. Additional authors on the study are: Ugrappa Nagalakshmi, Amelia K. Gilio and Savithramma Dinesh-Kumar, UC Davis; David Cornu and Francois-Didier Boyer, Universite Paris-Saclay, France. More information: Malathy Palayam et al, Structural insights into strigolactone catabolism by carboxylesterases reveal a conserved conformational regulation, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50928-3 Journal information: Nature Communications A small tornado struck downtown Buffalo without warning on Monday afternoon during a violent storm that ripped the roof off a building, flipped cars and knocked down trees and power lines. Video clips posted on social media showed debris swirling in the air and a slender funnel cloud briefly touching a street. WIVB-TV's "Tower Cam" also showed a large, dark cloud with a cone underneath moving across a section of the city's Lower West Side and downtown area around 12:50 p.m. There were no immediate reports of injuries. The National Weather Service sent a team to investigate and confirmed a small tornado touched down at Niagara and Carolina streets, according to the Buffalo News. The National Weather Service had forecast thunderstorms with possible hail and high winds Monday but a tornado warning wasn't issued, WVIB said. During a news conference before the tornado was confirmed, Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz said the storm's ferocity was startling. "It surprised everyone," he said, according to the Associated Press. Tornadoes were confirmed in the nearby towns of Eden and West Falls three weeks ago. The Ellicott Center rehabilitation facility near the site of Monday's tornado was damaged and 30 of its 125 residents will have to be relocated, WIVB said. Minor damage was also reported at City Hall and Hutchinson Central Technical High School. About 1,000 customers were without power and several streets were closed, as was an exit ramp from U.S. Route 190, WVIB said. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, a modified Long March-6 carrier rocket carrying a new satellite group blasts off from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in north China's Shanxi Province on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. China says it launched the rocket Tuesday carrying a constellation of a reported 18 satellites as part of efforts to assert its presence in space. Credit: Zheng Bin/Xinhua via AP China says it launched a rocket Tuesday carrying a constellation of a reported 18 satellites as part of efforts to assert its presence in space. The satellites were carried aboard a Long March-6 carrier rocket from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in north China's Shanxi Province early on Tuesday afternoon. The official Xinhua News Agency said the rocket had reached its pre-programmed orbit without incident. China's space program has launched numerous crewed missions, put a space station into orbit with a revolving crew of three astronauts aboard and sent a rover to the Moon that has brought back rocks and soil. It has also launched the Beidou System of satellites for national security, communications and scientific purposes, seen as an alternativeor possible competitorto the GPS system widely used for navigation that is mainly helmed by China's strategic rival, the United States. 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The designed UCNPs is encapsulated in ZIF-8 along with Cu x OS nanoparticles. Due to the quenching of UCL by Cu x OS, the UCL signal of UCNPs/Cu x OS@ZIF nanocomposite probe under 980 nm excitation is weak. At this time, the probe showed a significant CD signal due to Cu x OS. When H 2 S exists in the detection environment, the destruction of Cu x OS by H 2 S weakens the CD signal of the probe, while the UCL signal of UCNPs is restored. Based on this principle, UCL/CD dual-mode sensing against H 2 S is realized in vitro. At the same time, as one of the typical biomarkers of cancer, the high expression of H 2 S in the tumor also enhances the UCL signal of the probe inside the tumor, achieving bioimaging in vivo. Credit: Yang Lu, Xu Zhao, Dongmei Yan, Yingqian Mi, Peng Sun, Xu Yan, Geyu Lu, and Xiaomin Liu. With the continuous development of nanotechnology, more artificial chiral nanomaterials have been constructed. As one of the most representative optical properties of these chiral nanomaterials, circular dichroism (CD) is a powerful sensing technology. Compared with other analytical methods, CD signal has higher sensitivity, but it cannot achieve in-situ imaging in vivo. Scientists have managed to prepare chiral nanocomposites with more diverse biological functional properties to compensate for this shortcoming. However, some chiral nanocomposites assembled by electrostatic adsorption or other methods are easily dissociated and destroyed in complex physiological environments, resulting in performance deviations. In addition, it is difficult for some nanocomposites to distinguish interferences with properties similar to the analyte, resulting in poor detection selectivity. Therefore, it is still a challenging task to develop chiral composite nanomaterials with stable structure and excellent properties to meet the needs of biomedical diagnosis and detection. In a paper published in Light: Science & Applications, a team of scientists, led by Professor Geyu Lu from State Key Laboratory of Integrated Optoelectronics, College of Electronic Science and Engineering, Jilin University, China and co-workers have developed a UCNPs/Cu x OS@ZIF nanocomposite probe used for in vitro UCL/CD dual-mode sensing for H 2 S and in vivo imaging. In this probe, upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) and chiral Cu x OS nanoparticles are encapsulated in zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8). The reduction of Cu x OS by H 2 S leads to changes in Cu x OS absorption and CD signal, which enables the change in UCL and CD signals of the probe. UCL/CD dual-mode sensing for H 2 S was realized in vitro. At the same time, UCNPs enable in situ imaging of living tumor-bearing mice. The construction of UCNPs/Cu x OS@ZIF dual-mode nanoprobes makes chiral sensing a more advantageous tool in biological detection, and provides a new idea for the application of multi-functional chiral nanomaterials in biomedicine. UCNPs/Cu x OS@ZIF as a designed chiral nanocomposite, can effectively eliminate the influence of interference in the detection environment, and achieve highly selective sensing for H 2 S. The scientists summarized the probe's "selection" process for H 2 S: "The realization of this 'selection' actually comes from ZIF-8, which we designed as an encapsulation shell for the entire nanocomposite, not only to stabilize the composite, but more importantly, to use its unique pore structure to enable it to function as a gas molecular sieve." "In short, H 2 S molecules easily enter the inside of ZIF-8, while other molecules are isolated from the outside, thus resolving some common molecular influences on probe sensing to a certain extent." "Without the encapsulation of ZIF-8, reductive substances such as L-Cys, L-Lys, and GSH can also alter the UCL and CD signals of the probe, and this effect is extremely unfavorable for the evaluation of the sensing performance of the probe," they added. "The assembly idea used in this nanocompositeprobe can be applied to the assembly of other kinds of composite. As long as the design is reasonable, more diversified multi-functional chiral composites can be prepared, creating more possibilities for the application of chirality in the field of biosensing, bioimaging and biotherapy, " the scientists forecast. More information: Yang Lu et al, Upconversion-based chiral nanoprobe for highly selective dual-mode sensing and bioimaging of hydrogen sulfide in vitro and in vivo, Light: Science & Applications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41377-024-01539-6 Journal information: Light: Science & Applications This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain To protect the Amazon and support the well-being of its people, its economy must shift from environmentally harmful production to a model built around the diversity of indigenous and rural communities, and standing forests. A group of conservationists from Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, the US and the UK say that current conservation and development efforts will never sustain or scale without systemic changes in how economies are designed. Despite extensive destruction of the Amazon in the name of economic development, Amazonian communities have seen little improvement in income, life expectancy, and education. The researchers have proposed a new model and associated policy changes that could create fair and sustainable futures for the Amazon and its people by improving infrastructure, supply chains, and social organizations. Their results, reported in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution, are focused on the Amazon. However, the researchers say similar economic models could be implemented around the world if the political will exists. The Amazon basin is home to the world's largest tropical rainforest, representing over half of the world's remaining rainforest, and stores vast amounts of carbon. However, decades of large-scale deforestation, as well as the increased risk of fires and floods due to climate change, has put much of the Amazon rainforest under threat. In addition to what the loss of the Amazon would mean for global carbon emissions, the rainforest is also home to many indigenous peoples and thousands of species of plants and animals. "We need a different vision for the Amazon if we're going to protect it," said lead author Professor Rachael Garrett from the University of Cambridge's Department of Geography and the Conservation Research Institute. "Half a century of deforestation and exploitation of the Amazon has not resulted in widespread development, and now the economic value of deforested areas is threatened, not to mention the threats to the global climate and water security." Working with colleagues from the Amazonian region, Garrett has proposed building on the success of indigenous and traditional communities to develop new economies, which could protect much of the Amazon while also improving the livelihoods, health, and food security of the many people who live there. These economic models are known as socio-bioeconomies, or SBEs. "Conventional economic models can result in short-term gains, but over the longer term, the people and resources of the Amazon basin have been exploited by powerful interests, while there has been an underinvestment in education, innovation, and sustainable infrastructure," said Garrett. "The conventional economic model is simply not sustainable." The SBE model is focused on using and restoring Amazonian and other ecosystems sustainably, and supporting indigenous and rural communities. An SBE economy might include eco-friendly tourism, or the sustainable harvest and processing of plant products into valuable foods, beverages, clothing, and medicines. "A limited range of interests are controlling the development agenda in most countries," said Garrett. "The only way we can change that is improving the rights and representation of the people who are not benefiting from the systems and are being harmed by ongoing environmental destruction. We believe it is possible to have win-wins for humanity and conservation, but not if we continue to consume products that have a massively negative impact. SBEs can help put these win-wins into policy and practice." Garrett cites the footwear brand Veja as an example of such a win-win. The French company buys the rubber for its sneakers from small-scale Amazonian rubber farmers, and purchases 100% of the responsibly harvested native rubber in Brazil. As part of its sustainability efforts, the company focuses on building communities of small-scale farmers and has been financially successful without traditional advertising. Garrett and her collaborators are calling for massive increases in social mobilization, technology and infrastructure to support SBEs. Under an SBE model, governmental subsidies would be redirected away from agribusiness and toward smaller-scale sustainable development. The researchers also outline how to build connections between rural and urban policies in SBEs. An example is the establishment of public procurement programs where healthy and sustainably produced foods are purchased directly from indigenous and small farming communities and served in school lunch programs and hospitals, instead of supporting large-scale agribusiness engaged in degrading practices. Other policy changes that could support an SBE model include redirecting finance to conservation and restoration activities, supporting community enterprises, and ensuring participatory processes to ensure inclusive, long-term benefits. "It's possible to have an economy that is strong and works for everyone when we dare to develop new models and visions that recognize the interconnectedness of people and nature," said Garrett. "By popularizing these ideas, investing in people and businesses who are making a difference, and supporting research into SBE innovation, we can support a transformation in both conservation and development in the Amazon. The SBE model could help protect the Amazon and its people while avoiding climate and biodiversity disasters, but there needs to be the political will to make it happen." Rachael Garrett is the incoming director of the University of Cambridge Conservation Research Institute and a Fellow of Homerton College, Cambridge. She is a council member of the Cambridge Conservation Initiative and serves on the UN Science Panel for the Amazon. More information: Transformative changes are needed to support socio-bioeconomies for people and ecosystems in the Amazon, Nature Ecology & Evolution (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41559-024-02467-9 Journal information: Nature Ecology & Evolution This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Graphical abstract. Credit: Talanta (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2023.125562 Scientists have developed a way to detect tiny amounts of hard-to-detect explosives more than eight feet away, reducing the need to swipe clothing, luggage or other materials. The method, published in the journal Talanta, detects trace amounts of explosives like nitroglycerin and RDXthe explosive in C-4through the air at extremely low levels within seconds. Such substances give off just a few precious moleculesbut scientists have nonetheless created ways to detect them. Their explosives detection equipment is so sensitive, it recognizes the smallest wisp of an explosive in an area full of common air molecules like nitrogen and oxygen. The team can identify explosives at a level of less than 10 parts per quadrillionlike identifying a single pine needle from all the pine trees in the state of Washington. Put another way, it's the equivalent of being able to pluck out a single coin from a stack of pennies more than 17 million times higher than the height of Mount Everest. The recent research by scientists at the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory builds on more than a decade of work detecting vapors from explosives and other materials. In the past, the team developed methods to detect explosives from about half an inch away. The latest explosive detection technology recognizes the same substances from two to eight feet away, depending on the material. "Previously, we could detect these explosive materials at a distance of the width of your finger. Now, our technology reaches the length of your arm and beyond," said Robert Ewing, the PNNL chemist who leads the team. The technology has been licensed to BaySpec Inc., a Silicon Valley instruments manufacturing company that specializes in spectral sensing for applications ranging from semiconductors and pharmaceuticals to defense and security. The company plans to have a commercial product based on the PNNL technology for the detection of explosives and narcotics available in 2025. Many materials used in explosives are hard to detect through the air because they release few molecules. That's in contrast to materials like gasoline, which evaporates quickly. Credit: Sara Levine, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Lower vapor pressure: No barrier to explosives detection Ewing's team is tackling materials that have low vapor pressurethey don't evaporate quickly. They release so few molecules into the air that it's hard to capture and analyze them. That's different from materials with higher vapor pressure, like gasolinegasoline is volatile and its molecules become airborne quickly, making it easy to detect. In the latest paper, the team detected low-vapor explosives like nitroglycerin and RDXanother common explosivefrom several feet away. In previous work, the team detected explosives like tetryl, PETN and TNT through the air, as well as drugs like fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine. The team believes the new approach, known as standoff detection, can also be used for additional explosives, drugs and other chemical threats. "We hope this technology can be deployed to keep people safe from explosive threats," said Ewing. Part of the improvement in standoff detection distance is due to a powerful, handheld air sampler developed at the University of Washington that draws in approximately 300 liters of air per minute. That allows the PNNL scientists to collect all the air they need in just 5 to 10 seconds to detect materials with lower vapor pressure. The air is drawn through a filter that collects the vapors, which are then delivered to an atmospheric flow tube and detected by a mass spectrometer. A key to the sensitive detection is the approximately two-foot-long device called an atmospheric flow tube where molecules are ionized before they're sent to the mass spectrometer. The distance of this tube allows for more time (seconds vs. milliseconds) for the target molecules to be ionized, which increases the sensitivity of detection. With the atmospheric flow tube, the team can identify explosives at a level of less than 10 parts per quadrillion. The work builds on the team's previous success, which included an R&D 100 Market Disruptor Award. The team participated in the Trace Explosives & Drug Detection Workshop in Ireland June 2428 to discuss related work. The work is part of a broad PNNL program in explosives detection. More information: Megan K. Nims et al, Standoff trace explosives vapor detection at meter distances, Talanta (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2023.125562 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: Results overview. Credit: Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50620-6 Atoms are complex quantum systems consisting of a positively charged nucleus surrounded by negatively charged electrons. When multiple atoms come together to form a molecule, the electrons of the constituent atoms interact in a complicated manner, making the computer simulation of molecules one of the hardest problems in modern science. Researchers from the Berlin Institute for the Foundations of Learning and Data (BIFOLD) at TU Berlin and Google DeepMind have now developed a novel machine learning algorithm which enables highly accurate simulations of the dynamics of a single or multiple molecule on long time-scales. Their work has now been published in Nature Communications. These so-called molecular dynamics simulations are important to understand the properties of molecules and materials and have potential applications in drug development and material design (e.g. for use in solar panels and batteries). Traditional methods to compute the interactions of electrons rely on finding solutions of the so-called Schrodinger equation. The Schrodinger equation describes the energy levels that a quantum systeme.g. atoms or moleculescan assume. This is a notoriously difficult task, and finding a solution for molecules containing more than a few dozen atoms may take several dayseven on powerful computers. To make matters worse, for running molecular dynamics simulations over long time-scales, the Schrodinger equation needs to be solved thousands or even millions of times, making the computational cost quickly exceed the compute resources that are available today. "The simulation of such interactions and the resulting predictions for complex processes like protein folding or the binding between individual molecules is a long-held dream of many chemists and material scientists, and would save many expensive and labor-intensive experiments," explains BIFOLD researcher Thorben Frank. In recent years, machine learning (ML) methods have brought this dream within reach. Instead of explicitly solving the Schrodinger equation, they can learn to directly predict the overall outcome of the relevant electronic interactions at the atomistic level, with greatly reduced computational cost. The difficulty is then shifted to finding efficient algorithms for "teaching" the machine learning system how the electrons interact without modeling them explicitly. To reduce the complexity of this task, many learning algorithms use the fact that physical systems follow so-called invariances. Simply put, certain properties of molecules stay the same when molecules are moved in space but the relative distances between individual atoms stay fixedmeaning the machine does not need to learn anything new in these cases. However, the way these invariances are typically incorporated into ML models is computationally expensive, ultimately limiting the speed with which the models can perform molecular dynamics simulations. To address this shortcoming, the BIFOLD scientists have devised a new learning algorithm that decouples invariances from other information about a chemical system at the outset. Unlike previous methods that required extracting invariant components from each operation within the model, this new approach simplifies the process. Now, the ML model can reserve the most complex operations for the physical information that really matters and drastically reduce the overall computational cost. "Simulations that required months or even years of computation on high-performance computer clusters, can now be performed within a few days on a single computer node. The leap in efficiency allows long-time scale simulations, which are necessary for understanding the structure, dynamics and functioning of atomistic systems. It thus enables deeper insights into the most complex and fundamental processes of nature," says BIFOLD researcher Dr. Stefan Chmiela who spearheaded the research project. In the future, the accurate simulation of the interaction of molecules with proteins in the human body could allow researchers to develop new drugs without the need to perform experimentssaving time and money while at the same time being more environmentally friendly. To showcase potential applications of the algorithm, the team used the new ML method to identify the most stable version of docosahexaenoic acid, a fatty acid which is a primary structural component in the human brain. This task requires scanning tens of thousands of potential candidates with high accuracy. So far, such an analysis would have been infeasible with traditional quantum mechanical methods. As noted by Prof. Dr. Klaus-Robert Muller, BIFOLD co-director and Principal Scientist at Google DeepMind, "This work demonstrates the potential of combining advanced machine learning techniques with physical principles to overcome long standing challenges in computational chemistry. It continues a critical line of research which puts focus on scaling ML approaches towards realistic chemical systems of practical interest." Dr. Oliver Unke, Senior Research scientist at Google DeepMind comments, "Earlier this year, we succeeded in scaling models to thousands of atoms, but with new advancements like this, moving to even larger numbers of atoms may become possible." While simulations with tens to hundreds of thousands of atoms are now becoming accessible, some structures consist of millions of atoms or more. The next generation of algorithms will need to be able to simulate such system sizes accurately, which requires a correct description of additional, complex, long-range physical interactions. More information: J. Thorben Frank et al, A Euclidean transformer for fast and stable machine learned force fields, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50620-6 Journal information: Nature Communications 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: Charred stumps and green saplings in a Swedish forest after a fire. Credit: Natascha Kljun, CC BY-ND Even in Earth's high northern-latitude forest, climate change is predicted to make wildfires more frequent and severe. Earth's far north hosts the boreal forest, a vast green belt that stretches from North America to Siberia. The boreal forest is one of the world's largest CO sinks. Over the past few thousand years it has removed around 1 trillion tons of carbon from the air, storing it in the trees and soil. Because of the large amount of carbon stored in the boreal forest, fires here can release much more CO into the air than forest fires elsewhere, amplifying climate change. Wildfires release lots of climate-warming CO while they rage. But our research in the European part of this forest has shown that the forest's CO sink recovers slowly, with the burnt area continuing to release CO for several years after the fires die. This exceeds the amount of CO produced from the fire itself. A large CO store is in danger Extremely hot and dry weather in 2018 led to the largest number of wildfires in the Nordic countries in modern history. In Sweden, the total burnt area was ten times larger than in an average year. Our research concentrated on the most extensive of these fires in the very center of Sweden, near Ljusdal. We continuously measured how much CO was exchanged between the land surface and the atmosphere and monitored the soil and regrowth of vegetation during the first four years after the fire. We did this in areas of forest where the trees were killed and areas where trees survived. We also compared areas that were turned into nature reserveswith charred trees left standingand areas that underwent typical post-fire management in Sweden, with all charred trees being cut (so-called "salvage logging") and new ones planted. Our measurements from some of the most degraded sites, namely a burnt forest after salvage logging and a young forest where all trees were killed during the fire, revealed that 650g of carbon was emitted on average from every burnt square meter during the first four years after the fire. This more than doubles the total emissions from the fire. For comparison, a similar unburnt forest would remove 1,200g of carbon from the air per square meter during the same time. And the emissions continue. We fed the data we collected from burnt sites and other Swedish boreal forest into a computer model that simulates tree growth. The model predicted that it would take more than 40 years for all the CO that was emitted due to the 2018 fire to be stored again in new forest. What about elsewhere? Fires in the boreal forest of North America are well studied, but this knowledge is less easily applicable in Europe. North American wildfires tend to rise up into the forest canopy and hence they kill lots of trees. During such fires, most of the carbon emissions happen during the fire itself. Meanwhile, between 60 and 80% of the forested area of the Nordic countries is intensively managed for commercial forestry, which changes the way wildfires affect the forest. Forest management can involve the removal of dead plant material and regular logging to ensure that the trees don't grow too close to each other, a practice known as "thinning." Tree species vary between the two continents too: North American boreal trees need fire to reproduce, whereas their European equivalents have evolved to resist burning. As a result, wildfires in the managed boreal forest of the Nordic countries mostly stay near the ground and consume the soil and undergrowth, sparing many trees. Post-fire management is critical We also found that further disturbing the burnt forestwith salvage logging or by plowing the soil before replanting trees, which is a common management procedure in Swedenslows the recovery of vegetation. If surviving trees are left standing they might grow more slowly than unburnt trees, but they are nevertheless continuously capturing and storing CO. The way a forest is managed after a fire affects how long it takes before enough new vegetation grows to turn the forest back into a carbon sink. From this point of view, our findings dispute the effectiveness of logging surviving trees. In the Nordic countries, especially in Sweden, intensive forest management has successfully supressed wildfires during the past 200 years. It is not clear whether this will still be possible with more frequent droughts and an increased fire risk expected in a warming climate. All of this relates to scientific understanding of how wildfires contribute to climate change. As CO emissions continue during the slow recovery of vegetation and soil post-fire, climate modelers should not only consider emissions from the fire itself, but the additional long-term emissions our research has uncovered. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Schematics of a transcriptional switch of fungal pathogenicity by an Aspergillus-deficient/-dominant microbiome on rice leaves. Credit: Nature Microbiology (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41564-024-01781-z Researchers from The University of Western Australia, in collaboration with Chinese scientists, have uncovered a fascinating aspect of plant-microbe interactions, revealing how a specific leaf fungus enhances rice disease resistance through chemical signaling. Published in Nature Microbiology, the research offers new insights into the complex relationships between rice, its resident microbiota and invasive pathogens. Rice is a staple food for more than half of the world's population, providing a major source of calories and nutrition and a vital agricultural commodity, supporting the livelihoods of millions of farmers, particularly in Asia, where 90% of the world's rice is produced and consumed. Study co-author Xiaoyu Liu from the ARC Center for Plant Energy Biology at UWA's School of Molecular Sciences, said the research offered a significant leap towards understanding plant defense mechanisms, and in particular rice. "We already knew that microbes, known as phyllosphere microbiota, that live on the above-ground parts of plants, established symbiotic relationships with their host plants through nutrient exchange and signal communication," Liu said. "These microorganisms significantly influence plants' different characteristics and fitness, and play an essential role in pathogen defense systems, however, the mechanisms by which they did this have remained largely unknown, until now." Lead author Professor Mengcen Wang said after extensive greenhouse and field experiments, the team discovered the distinct differences in disease resistance among various rice varieties vanished when the phyllosphere microbial community was disrupted. "Guided by this interesting phenomenon, we found besides disease resistance genes, phyllosphere microbiota also played an important role in regulating rice disease resistance," Professor Wang said. Researchers selected three rice varietiesTeqing, Nipponbare, and Lemontfor further investigation and through microbiome analysis and high-throughput screening, identified a phyllosphere fungus, Aspergillus cvjetkovicii, which was a key player in enhancing rice disease resistance. "We found that a metabolite known as 2,4-DTBP, produced by the fungus, boosted rice's disease resistance by neutralizing harmful molecules that build up during the growth of harmful fungi and prevented the fungi from causing infections," Liu said. "Our experiments showed that both the fungus and the metabolite were effective in protecting rice from diseases." The findings offered new ways to develop stable and efficient methods for controlling plant diseases, the researchers said. More information: Xiaoyan Fan et al, Aspergillus cvjetkovicii protects against phytopathogens through interspecies chemical signalling in the phyllosphere, Nature Microbiology (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41564-024-01781-z Journal information: Nature Microbiology This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: An artist's metaphoric depiction of a fusion plasma in a microwave, with a toaster in the background. Credit: Kyle Palmer / PPPL Communications Department Some believe the future of fusion in the U.S. lies in compact, spherical fusion vessels. A smaller tokamak, it is thought, could offer a more economical fusion option. The trick is squeezing everything into a small space. New research suggests eliminating one major component used to heat the plasma, freeing up much-needed space. Scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), the private company Tokamak Energy and Kyushu University in Japan have proposed a design for a compact, spherical fusion pilot plant that heats the plasma using only microwaves. Typically, spherical tokamaks also use a massive coil of copper wire called a solenoid, located near the center of the vessel, to heat the plasma. Neutral beam injection, which involves applying beams of uncharged particles to the plasma, is often used as well. But much like a tiny kitchen, it is easier to design if it has fewer appliances, it would be simpler and more economical to make a compact tokamak if it has fewer heating systems. The new approach eliminates ohmic heating, which is the same heating that happens in a toaster and is standard in tokamaks. "A compact, spherical tokamak plasma looks like a cored apple with a relatively small core, so one does not have the space for an ohmic heating coil," said Masayuki Ono, a principal research physicist at PPPL and lead author of the paper detailing the new research. "If we don't have to include an ohmic heating coil, we can probably design a machine that is easier and cheaper to build." The paper is published in the journal Nuclear Fusion. Identifying the ideal beam angle and heating mode Microwaves are a form of electromagnetic radiation that can be generated using a device known as a gyrotron. The gyrotrons would sit on the outside of the tokamakmetaphorically speaking, just outside the apple skinaimed toward the core. As the gyrotrons emitted powerful waves into the plasma, they would generate a current by moving negatively charged particles known as electrons. This process, known as electron cyclotron current drive (ECCD), both drives a current in and heats up the plasma. The heating process is not as simple as just turning on some gyrotrons, however. The researchers need to model different scenarios and determine various details, such as the best angle to aim the gyrotrons so the microwaves penetrate the plasma properly. Using a computer code called TORAY coupled with one called TRANSP, the team scanned the aiming angles and saw what gave the highest efficiency. The goal is to use as little power as possible to drive the necessary current. "Also, you have to try to avoid any of the power that you're putting into the plasma coming back out," said Jack Berkery, a co-author on the paper and the deputy director of research for the National Spherical Torus Experiment-Upgrade (NSTX-U). This can happen when the microwaves are reflected off the plasma or when they enter the plasma but exit without changing the plasma's current or temperature. "There were a lot of scans of different parameters to find the best solution," Berkery said. The research team also determined which mode of ECCD would work best for each phase of the heating process. There are two modes: ordinary mode, known as O mode, and extraordinary mode, known as X mode. The researchers see X mode as the best fit for ramping up the temperature and current of the plasma, while O mode is the best choice after the ramp-up, when the plasma temperature and current simply need to be maintained. "O mode is good for a high-temperature, high-density plasma. But we found that O mode efficiency becomes very poor at lower temperatures, so you need something else to take care of the low-temperature regime," said Ono. Considering the impact of impurities The authors, including postdoctoral researcher Kajal Shah, also investigated how power would radiate away from the plasma. Such radiation could be significant in a plasma as big as one needed for commercial fusion. Luis Delgado-Aparicio, the Lab's head of the Advanced Projects Department and a co-author on the paper, notes that it will be particularly important to minimize the number of impurities from elements with a high atomic number, which is also known as a Z number, in the periodic table. Those are the elements with many positively charged particles, known as protons. The more protons an element has, the higher its Z number and the more it can contribute to heat loss. Tungsten and molybdenum, for example, have Z numbers, so their use inside a compact spherical tokamak would need to be carefully considered with an eye toward running the reactor in ways that would reduce impurity transfer into the plasma. While the strong magnetic fields largely confine the plasma inside a tokamak in a particular shape, sometimes plasma can come close to the interior walls of the tokamak. "When this happens, atoms from the walls can sputter off and enter the plasma, cooling it," said Delgado-Aparicio. "Even a relatively small amount of an element with a high Z number can cause the temperature of the plasma to cool significantly." So, it is particularly important to keep impurities out of the plasmaas much as possibleparticularly while the temperature is still ramping up. Private-public partnerships: The future of fusion The heating simulations are part of a design project known as the Spherical Tokamak Advanced Reactor or STAR. The project is a strategic initiative to develop plans for a pilot power plant. Berkery said the project provides PPPL researchers with an opportunity to apply their expertise in physics, engineering and working with the computer codes for fusion simulations while working in partnership with private firms on their plans for fusion power plants with a spherical tokamak design. Vladimir Shevchenko, a co-author on the paper and a senior technical adviser at Tokamak Energy, said he plans to run experiments at the end of next year in the company's fusion vessel, ST40, to compare to the simulation results presented in the paper. "Other heating systems have very, very serious problems," Shevchenko said. "I see this as the future for tokamak heating systems." Shevchenko thinks the project benefits from the public-private partnership between PPPL and Tokamak Energy, one of the companies selected for the DOE milestone-based fusion development program. "PPPL has a lot of experienced specialists in different areas related to plasma physics and tokamak technologies. Their contribution in terms of modeling and advising is very valuable for a private company like Tokamak Energy," he said. More information: M. Ono et al, Efficient ECCD non-inductive plasma current start-up, ramp-up, and sustainment for an ST fusion reactor, Nuclear Fusion (2024). DOI: 10.1088/1741-4326/ad556f 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: Groundwater level measurements and trends from different time frames. Credit: Communications Earth & Environment (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s43247-024-01554-w Groundwater is a vital resource, sustaining plants and ecosystems, ensuring agricultural production and serving as a core component of drinking water supplies. However, climate change and anthropogenic pressures can threaten groundwater availability, especially in southwestern Europe. In a paper published in Communications Earth & Environment, this threat was evaluated by an international research team coordinated by the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) using multidecadal data from more than 12,000 groundwater wells in Portugal, Spain, France, and Italy. The surprising finding: Groundwater levels are not declining everywhere as widely believed, but primarily in semi-arid regions with intensive agriculture and frequent droughts. Declines are also observed in temperate regions associated with large urban areas. The authors conclude that, with suitable management practices, groundwater can be utilized sustainably. "A widespread belief is that groundwater levels are continuously declining everywhere in southwestern Europe. However, a closer examination of the data reveals that the situation is more complex," says UFZ hydrologist Dr. Seifeddine Jomaa, the corresponding author of the study. Data from 1960 to 2020 revealed that 68% of the examined wells showed stable levels over the past three decades, 20% of the wells showed rising groundwater levels, while only 12% showed a decline. "To avoid generalizations, a differentiated and detailed consideration of local groundwater systems is needed," Jomaa says. Stable groundwater levels are primarily located in temperate regions with year-round high precipitation, such as northern France. "In these regions, high recharge rates keep groundwater levels nearly stable," says Rafael Chavez Garcia Silva, first author and also hydrologist at the UFZ. In other areas, like the lower Po River basin near Ravenna, groundwater levels are even rising due to natural and anthropogenic factors and land subsidence, requiring surface water drainage and groundwater pumping to prevent flooding. In semi-arid regions, however, there are many places, such as Tarbes in France and Medina del Campo in Spain, where groundwater levels have been declining for decades. This is partly due to decreased rainfall and elevated temperatures brought about by climate change. Intensive agriculture is also a significant factor. "These four Mediterranean countries are responsible for a large part of the EU's fruit, vegetable, and grain production, with groundwater supplying 30-50% of irrigation," says Jomaa. Even in temperate regions, the team found wells with declining groundwater levels. The cause is proximity to cities and industry. Since the 1960s, for example, groundwater levels in the metropolitan areas of cities such as Lyon, Nice, Modena, and Bordeaux have been declining. In Bordeaux, the ninth-largest city in France, the high groundwater consumption is attributed to increasing domestic use. The popular French tourist destination, Beziers, has seen a significant decline in groundwater levels due to increased extraction to supply drinking water for summer tourists. While groundwater decline in urban and industrial areas is not easily halted, the researchers found effective management approaches in semi-arid, agricultural regions, which lead to the recovery of groundwater levels, as seen in La Mancha Oriental in Spain. Until the 1990s, groundwater levels were declining due to excessive irrigation. "As a result, sections of the Jucar River dried up in 1994 for the first time ever. This dramatic event prompted farmers to create a water user association that aimed to stop the decline in groundwater levels through a combination of monitoring, remote sensing, and individual water use plans. These measures effectively reversed groundwater level trends in the region," says co-author J. Jaime Gomez-Hernandez, hydrogeologist at the Technical University of Valencia. Against the backdrop of climate change, southwestern Europe can provide lessons for groundwater management in Germany and other regions worldwide, especially as groundwater demand increases and aquifer recharge suffers due to climate change. "Germany could benefit from the experience gained in southwestern Europe, how groundwater can be optimally used, which irrigation methods are more effective, how we enhance stakeholder engagement and what mistakes should be avoided in the future," says Jomaa. One thing is clear: Germany needs an anticipatory approach to sustainable groundwater use. More information: Rafael Chavez Garcia Silva et al, Multi-decadal groundwater observations reveal surprisingly stable levels in southwestern Europe, Communications Earth & Environment (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s43247-024-01554-w Journal information: Communications Earth & Environment This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Researchers from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the USDA Agricultural Research Service, including Ana Saballos, found a genome region associated with flumioxazin tolerance in snap bean. The region appears to act as a master switch for resistance to other forms of environmental stress. Credit: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Waterhemp is a nuisance for any crop producer, but in snap bean fields, the weed's stem segments can break off during harvest, contaminating the crop with inedible look-alike "pods." However, snap bean is harmed by many of the herbicides registered for waterhemp, leaving producers with few chemical solutions. Now, a new study from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and USDA Agricultural Research Service identifies snap bean germplasm that can withstand flumioxazin, a soil-applied herbicide effective against waterhemp. Further, the genomic region responsible for that tolerance seems to act as a master switch controlling multiple stress tolerance genes. The paper, "Mapping of flumioxazin tolerance in a snap bean diversity panel leads to the discovery of a master genomic region controlling multiple stress resistance genes," is published in the journal Frontiers in Plant Science. "Stress tolerance is the orchestration of many different genes in response to different environmental stimuli, so trying to enhance general stress tolerance can be complex and difficult for plant breeders. But now we think breeders can manipulate this one gene and control hundreds of others. That's really exciting," said lead study author Ana Saballos, ORISE Established Science Fellow in ARS and research affiliate in the Department of Crop Sciences, part of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at Illinois. Saballos and her collaborators tapped into a diversity panel of 377 snap bean genotypes representing a century of improvement for the crop. The team planted seeds from the diversity panel and then treated the soil with flumioxazin a day later. Although the herbicide decreased plant density by 84% and reduced per-plant biomass by almost 60%, the researchers were pleased to find some genotypes survived practically unscathed. When they analyzed the inner workings of all 377 snap bean types, the researchers found a genomic region on chromosome 2 that was clearly related to flumioxazin tolerance. "It was like an on-and-off switch: survival or not," said senior study author Marty Williams, ARS ecologist and affiliate professor in the Department of Crop Sciences. Such a clear switch would be expected if the herbicide's specific enzyme target (protoporphyrinogen oxidase, PPO) had mutated in tolerant plants. In that casea phenomenon known as target site resistancethe herbicide could not bind to the mutated PPO enzyme to change its activity. But the researchers didn't find the gene for PPO in the genome region associated with herbicide tolerance. "Target site resistance is usually what's happening when you see that on-and-off response. So, it was a surprise the region associated with tolerance was not near either of the known PPO enzyme locations," Saballos said. "We also looked for enzymes we expected might be detoxifying the herbicideincluding a class of enzymes called P450sbut we didn't find genes for any of those. We had to take another approach." Next, the team looked at gene expression in the tolerant and sensitive plants. Although they didn't find P450 genes themselves in the genome region, these enzymes were expressed at higher rates in tolerant plants. Saballos thinks some mystery elementpossibly a transcription factorin the genome region of tolerant plants may control the activation of P450 genes across the rest of the genome. Certain antioxidants were also expressed at higher rates in tolerant plants, while genes related to apoptosisa process Saballos calls "cell suicide"were expressed at lower rates. The researchers say the overall pattern of gene expression wouldn't just explain tolerance to flumioxazin; it could influence plant responses to myriad types of environmental stress. "Ultimately, we set out to determine if flumioxazin could selectively control waterhemp in snap bean. Unfortunately, there is insufficient tolerance to the herbicide in most snap bean cultivars," Williams said. "However, the existence of a single element able to regulate the expression of a large number of genes involved in stress tolerance is exciting and of high interest for basic science and applied crop breeding." More information: Ana I. Saballos et al, Mapping of flumioxazin tolerance in a snap bean diversity panel leads to the discovery of a master genomic region controlling multiple stress resistance genes, Frontiers in Plant Science (2024). DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1404889 Journal information: Frontiers in Plant Science Presumptive Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has picked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her vice presidential running mate. She made the announcement via social media on Tuesday morning. The news broke hours before the vice president was set to go on a multi-state campaign swing with her new running mate. She is scheduled to appear at a rally at Temple Univerity in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening. I am proud to announce that I've asked @Tim_Walz to be my running mate. As a governor, a coach, a teacher, and a veteran, he's delivered for working families like his. It's great to have him on the team. Now lets get to work. Join us:https://t.co/W4AE2WlMTj Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) August 6, 2024 Several news outlets had reported her choice had narrowed down to Josh Shapiro, the Pennslyvania governor and Walz before she selected Walz. President Biden dropped out of the presidential race in July after losing support from many top Democrats in the days after what was described as a disasterous debate with Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. Key party members, including Biden, quickly threw their support behind Harris, clearing her path to gain the Democratic nomination. Polls have showed the race has tilted from Trump to Harris in recent weeks but the election is expected to come down to a few swing states, including Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Arizona. Harris hopes her vice presidential pick will help pick up swing voters in those key states. 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: Research aims. Credit: Monash University In the midst of the national crisis of men's violence against women in Australia, a new Monash University report reveals new evidence on the urgent need to improve men's engagement in behavior change programs. The report reveals housing stability, employment status, and court mandated program attendance as key risk factors impacting genuine engagement in behavior change. Behavior change programs are seen as one vital component of the broader strategy needed to prevent future abuse by enhancing perpetrator accountability and intervening with people who use violence. The report, "Engaging in change: A Victorian study of perpetrator program attrition and participant engagement in men's behavior change programs," is the largest Australian study of men's engagement with behavior change programs. The findings provide insights into factors affecting engagement and retention in behavior change programs. Lead author of the report, Professor Kate Fitz-Gibbon, said the report identifies numerous opportunities to enhance current interventions for people using violence. "Our study shows that there are mixed understandings of what constitutes success when engaging men in behavior change," said Professor Fitz-Gibbon. "The experiences of program participants' family members in our study demonstrates why program attendance, or completion in and of itself, should not be equated with behavior change. "Practitioners told us that housing stability is crucial for program eligibility and for supporting attendance, engagement and completion of a program. Men who do not have stable accommodation are more likely to skip group sessions and to exit the program early. It is then highly challenging to monitor and manage their ongoing risk where no fixed address is provided." The report recommends the expansion of housing options for people who have been exited from their primary residence, potentially as part of intervention order conditions. This should be part of the wider strategy to address perpetration. Importantly, housing for people using violence should not come at the cost of providing adequate accommodation options for victim-survivors. Co-author Dr. Jasmine McGowan explained that court mandated attendance was viewed as problematic by family members and practitioners, as the court order might initiate attendance but did not guarantee longer-term engagement in behavioral change. "These men were often viewed as motivated primarily by self-serving outcomes, such as gaining access to children, complying with court orders, or avoiding further criminal justice intervention," said Dr. McGowan. Data collected for this project involved an online survey and interviews with program participants, interviews with affected family members, and focus groups with men's services practitioners. The study also presents data collected from a range of Victorian service providers to capture program completion rate patterns. Notwithstanding the significant government investment to date in men's behavior change programs, in order to ensure program integrity and better outcomes, the research calls for sustained funding models. This will also enable the collection of valuable longitudinal data to further inform the evidence based on perpetrator interventions. "The current approach to working with men who use violence is missing opportunities to more effectively engage men in behavior change, to keep their risk visible and to hold them accountable. These missed opportunities represent critical moments where victim-survivor safety could have been improved," Professor Fitz-Gibbon said. This study aims to inform future advancements in these programs to enhance victim-survivor safety, improve perpetrator engagement and accountability and, ultimately, reduce repetition of abusive behaviors and escalation of family violence. While the data is Victorian specific, the findings are relevant nationally. More information: Engaging in change: A Victorian study of perpetrator program attrition and participant engagement in men's behaviour change programs. bridges.monash.edu/articles/re 046856?file=48170518 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A three-colour image of the galaxy ESO 428-G14 as captured by the James Webb Space Telescope. Credit: NASA, JWST A team of international scientists led by researchers at Newcastle University, have used the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to reveal a hidden veil of dust in a galaxy 70 million light years away. This research has shown that, unexpectedly, the energy that heats the dust comes from collisions of gas flowing close to the speed of light (shocks), rather than by radiation from the supermassive black hole in the galaxy. The research, led by Houda Haidar, a Ph.D. student in the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics, has been published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society. Houda and her team are members of the Galactic Activity, Torus, and Outflow Survey (GATOS), an international collaboration studying the centers of nearby galaxies using JWST. The team at Newcastle University has been working with some of the first dedicated JWST observations ever taken. "Having the opportunity to work with exclusive JWST data and access these stunning images before anyone else is beyond thrilling," said Houda. "I feel incredibly lucky to be part of the GATOS team. Working closely with leading experts in the field is truly a privilege."' Credit: Newcastle University Dust near supermassive black holes Astronomers define an active galactic nucleus (AGN) as a supermassive black hole, millions to billions the mass of the sun, that grows by feeding on gas. In many AGN, the thick clouds of dust and gas that feed the nucleus also block its view from observers on Earth. JWST's infrared vision looks through this dust to reveal the hidden core. At the same time, the telescope's sharp eye allows us for the first time to resolve the detailed structure of this dust across hundreds of light years. The new JWST images of ESO 428-G14 reveal that much of the dust near the supermassive black hole is spread out along the radio jet. Unexpectedly, the research found a close relationship between the dust and the radio jet, suggesting that the jet itself may be responsible for heating and shaping the observed dust. Dr. David Rosario, senior lecturer at Newcastle University, and co-author of the study, said, "There is a lot of debate as to how AGN transfer energy into their surroundings. We did not expect to see radio jets do this sort of damage. And yet here it is."' By studying dust close to supermassive black holes, we are learning how galaxies recycle their material, which ultimately helps us understand the processes by which supermassive black holes influence galaxies, including our own. More information: Houda Haidar et al, Dust beyond the torus: revealing the mid-infrared heart of local Seyfert ESO 428-G14 with JWST/MIRI, Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society (2024). DOI: 10.1093/mnras/stae1596 Journal information: Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society 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: Cephalic amplexus and finger swelling in the focal species of this study. Photo of an adult individual of L. brachistriatus: Fernando Vargas-Salinas, Photo adults E. anthonyi in amplexus: Diana Abondano Almeida. Credit: Molecular Ecology (2024). DOI: 10.1111/mec.17476 A team of zoologists at Goethe University Frankfurt, in Germany, working with a colleague from Universidad del Quindio, Armenia, in Colombia, has found evidence that some species of poison frogs produce pheromones in one of their digits, which they channel to their female partner during mating. In their study, published in the journal Molecular Ecology, the group dissected several poison frogs and then carried out a genetic analysis of what they describe as a "swollen fingertip." Prior research has shown that most male frogs, including poisonous varieties, use unique vocalizing to attract a mate. More recently, researchers have found that some frogs also use tactile, chemical or visual techniques to attract a mate. In this new effort, the research team noticed that some species of poison frogs have an overly bulbous or swollen fingertip on one of their handsduring mating season, the fingertip becomes even more swollen. They also noted that during amplexus, mounting that can go on for hours or days, the male places the swollen finger over the nostril of the female. Suspecting that the male produces and transmits a chemical signature to the female via the fingertip during mating, the researchers decided to investigate. The researchers dissected the swollen fingertips of two species of poison frogs and extracted samples. Suspecting that pheromones might be involved, they looked for RNA transcripts and found dozens of SPF genes that were producing copious amounts of RNAa strong indicator of pheromone production. More work is required to prove that the frogs are generating pheromones in their fingertips and transferring them to the female during copulation. The research team suggests the transference of pheromones during amplexus is likely not a means for convincing the female to copulate because copulation is already taking place. Instead, they suggest, such pheromones more likely play a role in when she chooses to lay her eggs and where she deposits them. More information: Diana Abondano Almeida et al, Sexy fingers: Pheromones in the glands of male dendrobatid frogs, Molecular Ecology (2024). DOI: 10.1111/mec.17476 Journal information: Molecular Ecology 2024 Science X Network This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: This map shows average concentrations of nitrogen dioxide for 2022 over the U.S., as detected by the Ozone Monitoring Instrument on NASA's Aura satellite. Higher concentrations are in red and purple. Lower concentrations are in blue. Credit: NASA's Scientific Visualization Studio For the first time, NASA data about nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), a harmful air pollutant, is available on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) widely used Environmental Justice Screening and Mapping Tool (EJScreen). This update marks a crucial step in addressing air quality disparities in overburdened communities across the United States. "Having access to this accurate and localized NO 2 data allows organizations like ours to understand the air quality challenges we encounter, and to advocate more effectively for the health and well-being of community residents," said Samuel Jordan, president of the Baltimore Transit Equity Coalition. Previously, EJScreen included data on ozone, fine particulate matter, and various other environmental hazards. But it lacked information on NO 2 , which has been linked to respiratory issues such as asthma, especially in children. "Incorporating NO 2 data into EJScreen is a testament to how NASA's Earth science capabilities can be applied to address crucial societal challenges," said John Haynes, NASA's program manager for Health and Air Quality. "This collaboration with the EPA underscores our commitment to using space-based observations to benefit public health and environmental justice." NO 2 is emitted by burning fossil fuels and contributes to the formation of surface ozone. Communities of color and lower-income populations often live closer to highways, factories, transportation hubs, and other NO 2 sources than their wealthier counterparts. As a result, residents are exposed to higher levels of this air pollutant and others, exacerbating health inequalities. For example, a new study used satellite data and other information to show that nearly 150,000 warehouses in the U.S. increase local NO 2 levels and are predominantly located in marginalized communities. The findings reveal a 20% increase, on average, in near-warehouse NO 2 , linked to truck traffic and warehouse density. "NO 2 is very short-lived in the air, and so its levels are high in the area where it is emitted," said Gaige Kerr, study co-author and an air pollution researcher at George Washington University in Washington, who was involved in incorporating NASA's NO 2 data into EJScreen. "This tool democratizes access to high-quality NO 2 data, allowing individuals without a background in data analysis or data visualization to access and understand the information easily." EJScreen uses data from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) on NASA's Aura satellite and computer models to provide average annual NO 2 estimates at the census block level, revealing the amount of chronic surface-level NO 2 that people may be exposed to in their neighborhoods. "Satellite data has the potential to transform the measurement of certain environmental and climate factors," said Tai Lung, an environmental protection specialist with EPA and EJScreen lead. "The consistency of NASA's NO 2 data for every corner of the U.S. makes it tremendously valuable for screening and mapping of disproportionate impacts in communities." The dataset was developed with contributions from George Washington University, the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle, and Oregon State University in Corvallis. NASA uses a variety of instruments on satellites, aircraft, and ground stations to continually gather data on key air pollutants. Scientists supported by NASA and other researchers monitor the origins, levels, and atmospheric movement of these pollutants. Their research offers crucial Earth-observation data that can guide air quality standards, shape public policies, and inform government regulations, ultimately aiming to enhance economic and human welfare. The Aura satellite recently celebrated its 20-year anniversary. In the future, Kerr said, the team could explore using NO 2 data from NASA's new TEMPO (Tropospheric Emissions: Monitoring of Pollution) instrument on the Intelsat commercial satellite. TEMPO launched in 2023 and offers hourly daytime measurements, rather than OMI's once-daily measurements. This capability could further enhance the EPA tool, providing insight on pollution levels throughout the day and supporting proactive air pollution management. 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: From left, Dr. Chen Ning Yang of Princeton University; Prof Daniel Bovet of Rome, who received prize in medicine for work in the field of pharmacology; Dr. Tsung Dao Lee, of Columbia University, who shares the physics prize with Chen for disproving the law of parity, long considered a fundamental law of nature; Sir Alexander Todd of Cambridge University, England, cited for his work in chemistry; and Albert Camus, of France, who received the prize in literature, are shown after receiving their awards in Stockholm, Sweden, Dec. 10, 1957. Chinese-American physicist Tsung-Dao Lee, who in 1957 became the second youngest scientist ever to receive a Nobel Prize, died Sunday, Aug 4, 2024 at his home in San Francisco at the age of 97, according to a Chinese university and a research center. Credit: AP Photo Chinese-American physicist Tsung-Dao Lee, who in 1957 became the second-youngest scientist to receive a Nobel Prize, died Sunday at his home in San Francisco at age 97, according to a Chinese university and a research center. Lee, whose work advanced the understanding of particle physics, was one of the great masters in the field, according to a joint obituary released Monday by the Tsung-Dao Lee Institute at Shanghai Jiao Tong University and the Beijing-based China Center for Advanced Science and Technology. Lee, a naturalized U.S. citizen since 1962, was also a professor emeritus at Columbia University in New York. Robert Oppenheimer, known as the father of the atomic bomb, once praised Lee as one of the most brilliant theoretical physicists of the time, whose work showed "remarkable freshness, versatility and style." Lee was born in Shanghai on Nov. 24, 1926, the third of six children to a merchant father, Tsing-Kong Lee, and a mother, Ming-Chang Chang, who was a devout Catholic, according to local newspaper Wenhui Daily. He went to high school in Shanghai and attended National Chekiang University in Guizhou province and National Southwest Associated University in Kunming in Yunnan province. After his sophomore year, he received a scholarship from the Chinese government to attend graduate school in the United States. Between 1946 and 1950, he studied at the University of Chicago under Enrico Fermi, a Nobel laureate in physics. In the early 1950s, Lee worked at the Yerkes Observatory in Wisconsin, at the University of California at Berkeley and at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, N.J. His research in elementary particles, statistical mechanics, astrophysics and field theory, among others, was standing out. In 1953, he joined Columbia University as an assistant professor. Three years later, at age 29, he became the youngest-ever full professor there. He developed a model for studying various quantum phenomena known as the "Lee model." In 1957, Lee was awarded the Nobel Prize in physics together with Chen-Ning Yang for work exploring the symmetry of subatomic particles as they interact with the force that holds atoms together. At 31, Lee was the second-youngest scientist to receive the distinction. He won many other accolades including the Albert Einstein Award in Science, the Galileo Galilei Medal and the G. Bude Medal, as well as honorary doctorates and titles from organizations around the world. As China became more open to international exchanges in the 1970s, Lee returned to his home country on repeated visits to give lectures and encourage the development of sciences, according to state media. 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Trends in patent filing for six taxa over 50 years. Credit: Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49688-x Researchers from the Oxford Martin Program on Wildlife Trade at the University of Oxford have demonstrated that patent data could provide a novel source of evidence that can help identify future commercial trends associated with the overharvesting of wildlife. The study, "Early warning of trends in commercial wildlife trade through novel machine-learning analysis of patent filing," has been published in Nature Communications. If companies continue to file patents for products made from animals banned from commercial trade, such as rhinos, this can suggest a belief that these markets might reopen in the future. Patents for wildlife product alternatives, such as farmed or synthetic pangolin products, may also be indicative of a shift away from a trade in wild specimens of species. Using a novel machine-learning approach, the research team analyzed more than 27,000 patents from 1970 to 2020 related to six traded organisms and found their number had increased by 130% per annum on average, compared with a background rate of 104% for patents filed globally. They also found that stricter regulation of wildlife markets did not lead to reduced patenting. Dr. Amy Hinsley, Research Fellow and Co-Director of the Oxford Martin Program on Wildlife Trade at the University of Oxford, and joint lead author of the paper, said, "Our findings show that the wildlife trade is like any other commercial trade, with businesses constantly innovating to develop new products or methods to produce them. "We found a wide range of patents, from novel pangolin farming methods to new medicinal products made from rhino horn, and we were surprised to see that patenting continued, even after trade in these products was banned." The team looked at patenting for six different highly traded groups of organisms: caterpillar fungus, used in traditional medicine and food pangolin, whose scales and meat are consumed for traditional medicine and food, respectively horseshoe crab, which is used as fishing bait and whose blood is valuable in biomedicine sturgeon, farmed for their eggs and meat for food bears, whose bile is used in traditional medicine rhinos, whose horns are used in traditional medicine The researchers reported that in addition to an overall increase in patent filings above the global average, patenting rates related to the study's focal organisms surged at certain key points. For example, there was a spike in patents for medicinal rhino products in March 2008, coinciding with that year's significant increase in poaching. This increase occurred despite China domestically banning such products since 1993. This means that patenting generally increased even after the introduction of regulations that banned or heavily regulated commercial trade in wildlife. In the case of rhino horn, all 526 patents were filed after a 1977 international commercial trade ban for wild products; of these, 426 were filed in China after the 1993 ban. This suggests that companies are either hoping for a relaxation of rules banning such products or planning to develop products using illegally acquired horn. Finally, the researchers also reported that ongoing innovation has led to a diversification of wildlife-derived products, such as rhino horn snuff products and livestock feed containing pangolin scales. Policymakers could work with businesses and entrepreneurs identified by such patents to proactively develop measures that encourage commercial innovation as well as work towards meeting sustainability and conservation goals, say the researchers. Professor Joss Wright, Senior Research Fellow at the Oxford Internet Institute, Co-Director of the Oxford Martin Program on Wildlife Trade at the University of Oxford, and joint lead author of the paper, said, "To understand the complexities of the wildlife trade, and the risks it poses to species, we need to draw on all the data at our disposal. "Our study shows that emerging computational methods can help us to find patterns in large and complex datasets across a wide range of perspectives, from species populations, to environmental measurements, to human behavior." More information: A. Hinsley et al, Early warning of trends in commercial wildlife trade through novel machine-learning analysis of patent filing, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49688-x Journal information: Nature Communications 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: African Data Protection Legislation Landscape. Source: Authors own elaboration (as of May 2023). Cartography: Paula Rothenberger. Credit: Law, Innovation and Technology (2023). DOI: 10.1080/17579961.2023.2245673 Across Africa, agricultural producers are turning to digital solutions to get information about farming methods, market access or financial services. By 2022, there were 666 of these solutions operating on the continent, the highest number among all low- and medium-income regions. Advances in digital devices, such as smartphones, sensors and satellites, connected through the internet and combined with big data analytics, enable solution providers to collect and analyze large amounts of farm data. This is data related to the farmer, the farming site, operations and commercial transactions. This has raised the possibility that service providers or other third parties could use farm data for their own benefit without the knowledge and consent of farmers. It could even be to the farmers' disadvantage. So there is a need to strike a balance between safeguarding farm data and using it effectively. African regulators have not yet responded to the specific challenges of farm data protection. It is a complex issue, at the intersection of different regulatory frameworks: personal data protection laws, contract and competition laws, and intellectual property rights. As a result, the exchange of data between agricultural producers and companies is often left to the service providers through unregulated agreements or contracts. Personal data protection Our research focuses on the adoption and impact of digital technologies in African agriculture. We recently reviewed the state of personal data protection and compliance of digital agricultural services with existing regulations on the continent. We found that relevant laws were being adopted across Africa, but their provisions were not always in line with African Union standards. Compliance was also limited, highlighting the need for enforcement and awareness. The only regulatory frameworks that protect farm data, even if not specifically so, are those relating to personal data. African states adopted the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection in 2014 as a guiding framework. The convention has not yet entered into force and only 15 countries had ratified it by July 2024. Our findings show that African governments are recognizing the importance of regulating personal data use. But not all the regulations are stringent enough and enforcement remains a concern. Specifically, we analyzed the personal data protection legislation that had been adopted in 34 African countries by May 2023 and compared its provisions with those set out in the African Union Convention. We also assessed compliance by reviewing the data privacy policies of 106 digital agricultural services operating in Africa. National laws are evolving The examples of Kenya and Ghana highlight commonly found gaps in regulations and implementation. The two countries are some of Africa's biggest users of digital agricultural services. Ghana was one of the first African countries to adopt personal data protection legislation, in 2012, and is one of the few that have signed and ratified the AU Convention. Kenya adopted a data protection law in 2019. It has not signed or adopted the AU Convention. Their laws include all the guiding principles of the convention and protect the same personal rights, as almost all national laws in Africa do. Differences emerge in the details. One provision of particular interest relates to automated decision-making. Digital agricultural services are increasingly making use of automated data analytics. For instance, mobile phone data are used to assess credit-worthiness of farmers, smart contracts employ blockchains, and weather data can automatically trigger crop insurance pay-outs. The AU Convention states that no-one should be subject to legally binding decisions based solely on automated processing of data to evaluate certain personal aspects. The Kenyan law allows for certain exceptions to this. Ghana is even less stringent, allowing automated decision-making provided that the users are informed. The large majority of African countries either have less stringent provisions about this than the AU Convention or no requirements at all. Another important area is the international transfer of data. Many digital agricultural service providers operate across countries: data may be collected in one country and processed or used by third parties in another. The AU Convention allows such transfers, but only if non-member states can show an adequate level of protection or the national authority has explicitly granted permission for the transfer. The Kenyan legislation generally follows the spirit of the AU Convention, but also elaborates on the details. It allows adequate safeguards to be put in place at the company rather than the government level. It also introduces specific provisions for sensitive data. The Ghanaian law, on the other hand, does not specifically address international data transfer. It states that transferred data is subject to the legal requirements of the originating country. Low compliance highlights enforcement issues Our research shows that among the leading countries for digital agricultural solutions, Ghana has the highest share of providers that do not make data privacy policies readily available on their websites (17 of 30 reviewed service providers). But also in Kenya, we found compliance to be low, with just over half of the services not providing a policy on their website. Where policies exist, our review highlights that most do not protect all users' rights over their personal data as set out in the national laws. The right of users to object to the processing of their data was most often missing. Looking ahead: strengthen laws and institutions The adequacy of personal data protection laws in Africa needs a closer look. Our research has highlighted some priorities for action. Revisions of many African laws are needed to bring them in line with the level of protection envisaged in the AU Convention. Ghana's example highlights the need to update laws in line with rapidly evolving digital technologies, such as automated decision-making. National enforcement institutions need to be stronger. This requires an independent body with resources to monitor compliance and the statutory powers to follow up on infringements. There is also a need to regulate the use of farm data not covered by data privacy laws, particularly data generated by machines or sensors. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The venom of the book scorpion (Chelifer cancroides) contains compounds that could help to combat a dangerous hospital germ in the future. Credit: Louis Roth The book scorpion (Chelifer cancroides), only a few millimeters long, is the best-known member of the pseudoscorpions, an order of arachnids, in Central Europe. It hunts house dust mites, bark lice and book lice in living spaces. It also kills pests in beehives. It often uses its venom to do so. For the first time, researchers in Hesse, Germany, have comprehensively characterized the components of this venomand discovered molecules with a strong effect against so-called hospital germs. The results may help to combat difficult-to-treat infectious diseases in the future. Although they represent a diverse group of arachnids with about 3,000 species worldwide, pseudoscorpionsunlike scorpionsare little known and have hardly been investigated as venomous animals. They look similar to their larger relatives with their long claws compared to their bodies, even though their abdomen is not divided or has a venomous sting. However, their small size, just 1 to 7 millimeters, makes it difficult to analyze their venom, which they inject into their prey through venom glands on their claws. A team of Hessian researchers from the LOEWE Center for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG) and other institutions has now succeeded for the first time in artificially producing all known members of a family of toxins from the book scorpion (Chelifer cancroides) and investigating their activity. The scientists discovered a surprisingly strong activity against a well-known hospital germ called methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Staphylococci are common bacteria that colonize the skin and mucous membranes. What makes MRSA variants special is that they are resistant to the antibiotic methicillin and therefore cause difficult-to-treat infections in humans, including after surgery. The family of toxins analyzed had been newly discovered in a previous study decoding the venom cocktail of the book scorpion and named "checacins." In order to quickly and efficiently find out more about the mode of action of this previously unknown class of toxins, different working groups from the LOEWE Center TBG tested the activity of the toxins against tumor formation, bacteria and inflammation in parallel. The tests were conducted at the Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology (ITMP) in Frankfurt, at the Goethe University Frankfurt and at the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, institute branch Bioresources (IME-BR) in Giessen. The study has been published in the journal iScience. Before a pharmacological application is possible, however, there are further hurdles to overcome. "Our data show that the checacins unfortunately also have a certain toxicity for human cells and could possibly cause inflammatory reactions themselves. "Therefore, we still need to optimize their structure and thus their effect using biotechnological processes, as is the case with other active substances," explains the study's co-first author, Dr. Pelin Erkoc. Dr. Erkoc is a TBG scientist , who worked at the Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology at Goethe University Frankfurt during the analyses. "However, the potential of these compounds is already clear. It is predicted that antibiotic-resistant infections could become the leading cause of disease-related death worldwide in the coming decades. It is therefore important to look for new solutions with unusual ideas," adds Dr. Michael Marner, postdoctoral researcher at Fraunhofer IME-BR and co-author of the study. "Animal venoms are a veritable treasure trove of potential drug candidates, but only a small proportion have been investigated so far," emphasizes study leader Dr. Tim Luddecke, head of the junior research group Animal Venomics at Fraunhofer IME-BR and Justus Liebig University Giessen and member of the LOEWE Center TBG. "In my group, we have developed modern systems biology and biotechnological methods to study the very small venomous animals that are difficult to analyze. In particular, we focus on arachnids. They are the master chemists of venomous animalsTheir venoms are particularly complex and pharmacologically promising. "Our new results on the checacins show how worthwhile it is to take a closer look at the unknown universe of venoms of small creepy-crawlies," Luddecke concludes. More information: Pelin Erkoc et al, Determining the pharmacological potential and biological role of linear pseudoscorpion toxins via functional profiling, iScience (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110209 Journal information: iScience The United States Supreme Court has returned some of its most wide-sweeping and controversial decisions in recent memory over the course of the past few years. While some, such as the overturning of Roe v. Wade, initiated immediate policy changes and garnered extensive public attention, the fallout from others, like the Chevron decision, could take years to accrue. I think its more than likely that you will see many, many more challenges to federal agency regulations. That is really going to open the floodgate of litigation, predicted Chris Amato, conservation director and counsel for Protect the Adirondacks. The so-called Chevron doctrine came about following the 1984 decision in Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council. Before the June 28 reversal, if a federal statute is disputed in court, that judge was compelled to defer to the interpretation of the statute held by the federal agency in charge of regulating it when making its determination, so long as that interpretation was reasonable. Theres a lot of very highly technical areas of the law whether youre talking about healthcare or environmental protection, theres areas of the law that are quite technical. And the statutes that Congress passes to do with the areas often contain ambiguities or are somewhat unclear, Amato said. To expect a single district court judge to be able to not only gain that level of knowledge, but then to correctly apply it in interpreting how a statute should be implemented is expecting far too much. The Chevron doctrine was put to its first big test when it was used to argue for amendments to the Clean Air Act in 1990. Although used at the time to enforce less restrictive regulations of industrial polluters, as attitudes towards environmental conservation have shifted, the Clean Air Act has been used to secure serious changes to regulating air quality, a direct boon to the Adirondacks, which suffered for decades because of acid rain caused by air pollution coming from smokestacks in other states. That was the federal regulation that ended up cleaning up our air. Our air today is much cleaner than it was in the 1980s, explained Kevin Rose, Ph.D., acting director of the Darrin Freshwater Institute. He spoke in a previous interview with The Post-Star. And we see, for example in Lake George, weve seen a substantial decline in things like nitrogen deposition or sulfate deposition, because those are what was acidifying precipitation, or (creating) acid rain. Although many of the ecosystems in the Adirondacks that have been affected by acid rain are still in recovery mode, Rose said its only due to the federal regulations that these environments have been able to make as much progress as they have. The source of the problem, that is solved today because of that legislation, he said. Its a huge environmental success story. Federal rules requiring industries to clean up their output played a key role in reversing the effects of acid rain in the Adirondacks. And the Chevron doctrine played a key role in establishing those rules. But now there is a new threat, which would likely require similar action to stave off catastrophe. Today though, were starting to see the effects of climate change, Rose said. So, just as we solved acid rain, now were focusing our attention on how do we understand the effects of climate change and what effects is this going to have on the physics, the chemistry, and the biology of the Adirondacks. And without Chevron to fall back on, a lot more of that attention is going to be focused on litigating pushback from companies unwilling to make changes, the people interviewed said they feared. That could be particularly troublesome for issues regarding climate change, Amato said, due to the immediate need for unified action. Its going to be very hard to rely on the federal government at this point to take quick action on climate change issues, he warned. The regulations that EPA has been promulgating to control greenhouse gas emissions will undoubtedly be challenged to the extent that, that delays or ultimately results in them being annulled by the court. Thats not good for the Adirondacks. Thats not good for the planet. And its not just environmental agencies that will be stymied by protracted legal challenges, Amato said the dismissal of Chevron deference would likely jam up the works with healthcare, insurance policy, and educational regulation. The court has really opened the door for just about everything to be challenged now, he said. There are those, however, who have expressed concern that federal agencies have had too much power, and opening the door to more challenges will help to strengthen the regulatory process as well as public accountability. I applaud the Supreme Court decision overturning a decades-long unconstitutional ruling that handed over unprecedented powers to unelected bureaucrats. Today, decision-making powers were rightfully returned to lawmakers who answer to the American people, as the Constitution intended, U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, (R, NY-21) wrote in June. This landmark decision would not be possible if not for President Donald Trumps great and effective judgment to appoint rock-solid conservative judges to the Supreme Court. Amato agreed in part with the last half of Stefaniks statement. There have been indications in prior rulings from a number of the justices that there was a lack of comfort with Chevron deference, he said. This is another right-wing cause celebre that has been around forever. But the idea that the courts decision to remove the Chevron Doctrine somehow strikes a conservative blow to regulatory power, misses the mark, according to Amato. A district court in Alabama is likely going to have a different take on an issue than a district court in New York, Amato posited. So, what this does is it not only opens up the door to a massive amount of regulatory challenges which will basically increase the amount of gridlock over what we already have at the federal level, but its also opening the door to just a lot of inconsistent interpretations of federal statutes. The states Department of Environmental Conservation sees the power grab going to the judiciary. Overturning decades of precedence, the Supreme Courts ruling effectively undermined the discretion and expertise of federal executive agencies in favor of the Judiciary, a branch of government with no subject matter expertise, as Justice Kagan noted in her dissent, the DEC wrote to the Post-Star. New York rejects this Supreme Court ruling, which is limited to the federal courts application of the federal Administrative Procedures Act. New York State continues to stand on the principle that discretion belongs with the technical and subject matter experts Executive State Agencies and will vigorously defend that expertise under state law when challenged. Regardless of whether you believe that regulatory agencies on the federal level have too much authority or not, the one thing that nobody can disagree with is the fact that there was at least uniformity across the 50 states because of federal agencies rule-making process, Amato added. Now youre basically saying youre going to have as many interpretations as there are courts. A Virginia man is accused of threatening to kill Kamala Harris using the social media platform GETTR. Frank Lucio Carillo, 66, of Winchester, appeared in court in the US District Court in Roanoke after being arrested last week. Carillo was charged in a federal criminal complaint with one count of making threats against the vice president. "Open political discourse is a cornerstone of our American experience. We can disagree. We can argue, and we can debate. However, when those disagreements cross the line to threats of violence, law enforcement must step in," said United States Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh of the Western District of Virginia. On July 27, the Maricopa County, Arizona, Recorder's Office alerted the FBI's Phoenix Office of the potential threats being made online against the vice president using the handle "joemadarats1." When FBI agents investigated these claims, they discovered approximately 4,359 posts made by the user account "joemadarats1" that targeted several public officials, including Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and FBI Director Christopher Wray. There were 19 mentions of Harris and multiple posts containing violent threats. In a February 2024 post, "joemadarats1" said he had his "AR-15 LOCKED AND LOADED." Officials were able to use GETTR subscriber information and other investigative methods to identify the "joemadarats1" username and match it to Carillo and his physical location in Winchester. On August 2, 2024, authorities at the FBI Richmond executed a search warrant at Carillo's home and seized a 9 mm pistol, an AR-15 rifle, and thousands of rounds of ammunition. "The FBI's mission is to protect the American people. We take all threats of violence seriously, and we will investigate them to the fullest and hold those responsible accountable," said Special Agent in Charge Stanley M. Meador of the FBI's Richmond Division. GETTR bills itself as a social media platform built on the "foundation of freedom of opinion and expression." It was founded in 2021 by former Donald Trump spokesperson Jason Miller and it aims to be a community for conservatives. A Davenport man has been arrested on suspicion that he fled from police in a stolen vehicle. Authorities also suspect him of pointing a BB gun at officers during the pursuit. The incident began at about 3 p.m. on Monday, when the owner of a stolen vehicle called the Davenport Police Department and told officers they had found the vehicle in the 2300 block of West 49th Street, according to a news release. When the owner tried to reclaim the vehicle, the driver showed a firearm and tried to hit the owner with the vehicle as he drove away. Authorities allege that driver was Steven K. Bolio, 32, according to the release. Officers found the vehicle shortly after and tried to stop it, but Bolio would not comply with police commands, the release states. During the ensuing pursuit, Bolio pointed what appeared to be a firearm at officers several times. Police later determined it was a BB gun. Bolio crashed on Interstate 280 near Rockingham Road, bringing the chase to an end, according to the release. The vehicle came to rest in the median and officers arrested Bolio. The crash injured Bolio and authorities sent him to a nearby hospital after they captured him, the release states. Officials do not think the injuries are life threatening. No one else reported injuries from the incident, the release states. The Scott County Jail website did not list Bolio as an inmate late Tuesday morning. Court documents related to the incident also were not yet available. The news release, however, stated Bolio could face numerous charges, including felony eluding and second-degree theft. Iowa State Patrol, Scott County Sheriff's Office and the Blue Grass and Buffalo police departments all assisted with the incident. The common signs of burnout, and more videos to improve your life Here are some of the most common signs of burnout, how to watch out for job scams this holiday season, and more videos to improve your life. Staff cuts at Western Illinois University will hit full-time professors and tenured faculty next. During a special meeting Tuesday morning, the WIU Board of Trustees unanimously approved staff reduction procedures to continue through June 30, 2025, though the number of cuts expected was not specified. WIU cut 36 "Unit B" employees part-time staff, academic support professionals and associate faculty in early July. "I have been a Leatherneck for nearly 27 years of my life," former WIU communications instructor David Zannola said Tuesday. "On June 28, I was notified that as of July 1 only three days later I would no longer be employed by the university." Zannola, also a WIU graduate, said he looked forward to teaching his students this fall. "Now, some of those classes have been forced onto my surviving colleagues as overload, while other sections in my department have been completely canceled," he said. Everett Hamner, an English professor at the WIU-QC campus in Moline, already had concerns for the students and his colleagues in Macomb. "The early July layoffs already had painful effects for both campuses," he told the Quad-City Times/Dispatch-Argus on Monday. "It remains unclear what will happen (Tuesday), but whatever additional cuts may occur, this is a very difficult period for us." University leaders cited enrollment declines and financial stability including a $22 million budget deficit as the leading factors behind the cuts. Total enrollment at both WIU campuses was 6,495 in spring 2024, an 18% decrease from five years ago. "I want to acknowledge the gravity of these decisions, and the profound impact (personnel reductions) will have on our dedicated faculty and staff (and) our Macomb and Quad-Cities communities," Interim WIU President Kristi Mindrup said Tuesday. "Truly, it is heartbreaking to come to this point we are at a crossroads, with no choice but to make a significant financial shift for the ultimate sustainability of (WIU)." Personnel comprises 80% of WIU's budget, Mindrup said. To address financial stability, she said university leaders must do two things: acknowledge the reality of anticipated WIU enrollment cliffs and right-size staffing. Other universities nationwide are making similar decisions, she said. "Our institution must change to move forward, and we will move forward," she added. By reducing staff, Mindrup said WIU will be better equipped to focus on student retention; expand into new markets, such as enhancing its online and adult learner programs; better align with equity initiatives and respond to regional workforce development needs. To prevent future layoffs, she and other WIU leaders plan to "commit to ongoing (resource maximization) practices" and say they won't approve another budget with structural deficits. "Our expectations and commitment (last year) was that spending would be aligned with revenue," said WIU Board Chair Carin Stutz. In the past, she said WIU has bridged revenue gaps by tapping into its restricted funds, but that has depleted those funds. "We now have a cash flow issue, and that's why we're all in this room today," Stutz said. She acknowledged previous WIU personnel and program cuts, saying "no one wants to go through this again." "We truly appreciate the depth of concern you feel for your jobs, the jobs of your colleagues (and) the future of WIU, Stutz said. "We understand (and) share your concerns, but our highest priority is moving WIU into a sustainable future." Ketra Roselieb, WIU's executive director of financial affairs, led a presentation on the university's historic cash balances and other financials leading to the staff reductions. She said deficit spending in fiscal years 2023 and 2024 pushed WIU's cash balances to "critical levels," forcing the magnitude and urgency of Tuesday's decisions. Interim provost Mark Mossman said several factors notably, student credit hour production, faculty capacity and class sizes will determine staff reduction areas. While she doesn't defend the "actions or inactions" of any WIU Board, Stutz said trustees have strongly pushed for ways to maximize operational efficiency, including personnel changes, in recent years. "Our charge is oversight, not management We have made very concrete suggestions, but we cannot force action," she said. "Currently, (administration) is making the bold, decisive decisions that are necessary to move WIU to a more stable, sustainable financial future." A plethora of WIU alumni, current and former faculty, students and community members spoke against continued cuts Tuesday. "By irresponsibly absolving yourselves for what your predecessors did, (WIU administrators and trustees) have condemned yourself to make the same mistake over and over again," said WIU history professor Edward Woell. "You are destroying this university in an ill-conceived gambit to save it." Eldon Brown, president of the WIU Alumni Council, said "years of optimistic complacency" led to this point. "You may not have created this problem, but it's yours to solve," he said. "As we reflect on (WIU's 125th anniversary) milestone, we must come together (to) face these hard truths and work collaboratively towards meaningful solutions shared governance also means shared sacrifice." He and others urged for unity and collective action moving forward. "We not only have an opportunity, but an obligation, to rebuild and reimagine what (WIU) can be," Brown said. Many speakers also called for stability in leadership. Larry Balsamo, a former WIU faculty member of 40 years, suggested to maintain Mindrup and Mossman in their current roles full-time. He also proposed WIU create a committee of faculty, students, community members and alumni to "begin immediately addressing (issues) like student attraction and retention." Some, including Zanolla, fear continued staff reductions at WIU may drive more students away. Retired WIU employee Terri Hare was the only public commentator to speak in support of WIU's decision to reduce staff. "Please exercise good judgment when making these decisions. We need to keep faculty and boost enrollment in our more popular, celebrated programs," she said. "It's difficult to maneuver around human emotion when making tough decisions, but WIU must be run like a business. Let's focus on our strengths." On Monday, members of the University Professionals of Illinois union held a held a press conference, titled "No Layoffs: Save WIU!," in protest of the ongoing layoffs. Students and supporters gathered at the Chandler Park Gazebo in Macomb to call for a better solution. Sen. Mike Halpin, D-Rock Island, called the recent WIU staff cuts "very concerning" in a statement Monday. His district includes both campuses. "These layoffs will hurt the families of the faculty and staff affected; (the) students who depend on them for a high-quality education, the local businesses who (support/provide) services to the university and those employed there, and our economy throughout western Illinois," he said. Halpin urged WIU to be "as transparent as possible" to those impacted by the layoffs and help with transition planning to "ease the pain for all involved." Rep. Gregg Johnson, D-East Moline, had similar concerns. In a statement Monday, he called the hardship and uncertainty spurred by WIU layoffs "deeply troubling" especially with the fall 2024 semester just weeks away. "These layoffs are not just numbers on a page; they represent real people our friends, neighbors and community members who have devoted their lives to educating and supporting our students," he said. "(The) loss of their contributions will be felt deeply across the WIU community in Macomb and Moline." Halpin said he plans to continue to push for increased funding for WIU and other state colleges. Johnson said WIU's layoffs reflect a need for proper education funding, calling it the "root cause" of the issue. "Without it, institutions like WIU will continue to face such dire decisions," Johnson said. Economic development is crucial, especially at a time when our region is seeing more layoffs. We need to reverse this trend to ensure the stability and growth of our communities."